Day 17, Lisbon

After leaving the Mediterranean, we hit the Atlantic Ocean on our way to Lisbon, Portugal. There has been a hurricane in the Atlantic and the swell was noticeble but not enough to make anyone sick. On our way into Lisbon, we went under a massive bridge similar to the Golden Gate bridge before docking near the city centre. Skys were overcast but it was warm so shorts and t-shirts were in order. We have been lucky with the weather on the trip, with just rain on one day in Munich. Larry and Amanda were meeting up with family, so the four of us went for a walk into the city.

We found a Tuk Tuk (Thai taxi) and after negotiating with the driver, paid 80 Euros for a 90 minute tour of Lisbon. It is a very hilly city so the tuk tuk was a great investment. Our driver was very knowledgeable and she went through the history of Lisbon as well as taking us to the important landmarks. We went to ta large church, and also learned about the massive earthquake and tsunami which hit the city a couple of hundred years ago. We were also taken to the top of two of the main hills which had great views over Lisbon.

After the tour, we had lunch at a local restaurant and Steve decided to try the sardines which is a traditional food in these parts. Everyone else struggled with the smell but they were nice. After lunch, we did some shopping and Jason and Steve had a beer while the girls went in and out of shops. We bought some souvenirs and walked back to the ship.

We got back about 3:30pm and had another restful afternoon. We were sailing out at 8pm so we headed up for dinner and then went to the back of the ship to watch Lisbon slowly disappear. The highlight was going under the bridge. It seemed like there was only a couple of feet clearance. Lisbon at night loooked spectcular, especially the statue of Christ which overlooks the harbour.

Tomorrow is Cadiz, Spain.