Tuesday, June 21, 2011

Arriving in Lisbon

The cruise on Silversea ended Saturday morning in Lisbon and as with most cruises, guests leave the ship very early in the morning (by 9AM) so we had a full day to explore Lisbon.

View of Lisbon from the port.
 Our hotel was on the main Avenue (Avenida Liberdad) and when we arrived, the entire promenade was filled with displays and people.  How nice of them to throw us a street party! 

Turns out, it was a "Mega Picnic" celebrating the products of Portugal (agriculture, farming, etc.).  It seemed like everyone was there, bringing their own picnic, blankets and chairs.

View of the avenue.

Potatoes

Broccoli

"Statue"

Cabbage/kale

Local celebrities hosting the festivities.

Beautiful sunflowers!

Mama and her babies

Ducks and geese

Turkeys and chickens


Goats with funny horns
Horse-drawn buggy rides.

Tractor and farm equipment display

Statue of Marques de Pombal (responsible for the rebuilding of the city after earthquake in 1700s)

Plum tree

Olive tree

HUGE bandshell where a famous Portugeuse singer would perform later.

Lisbonians enjoying the shade, a picnic and waiting for the concert.

Another square/plaza where we would meet our guide.

Throughout Lisbon, the tiles/pavers cover the sidewalks and squares.
The wavy pattern can be tricky on the eyes....especially after a glass of port, beer or ginjinha (cherry brandy).
So, for our first day in the city, it was quite interesting.  Everyone was so peaceful and enjoyed the event along the avenue - literally from one statue to another at the main square.