Lisbon

Lisbon - A city that reminds me a lot of Barcelona. That's how I feel as I ride my bike from my campsite into the city. There is a lot of interesting architecture to discover along the bike path by the river. It's also a new experience to be biking around. It's a bit more difficult in the old town with the bike. During a drink stop at a random church, I strike up a conversation with a man. He gives me food, even though he seems to have very little himself. Despite declining, he insists that I take it, so I do him the favor - with the intention of passing it on to others in need. On my way back along the harbor, I pass by a few tents under the bridge, where a man is thrilled to receive the food.

I have the best restaurant meal in a long time at Organi Chiado, a vegan restaurant in the old town. Baked sweet potato, tofu "egg," green-yellow-white-spotted rice (I guess spirulina and turmeric were used there), a fried spinach leaf on salad with pesto in a composition that provides me with new inspiration for my own dishes!

As I enjoy my meal, I listen to the conversation of the two American girls next to me. There's no way I can't hear them, the tables are so close together. :-D I find it fascinating how they can eat so quickly and talk about politics at the same time.

Encounters through couchsurfing in Lisbon, as I had imagined, apparently won't happen this time. I'm more in the mood for a quiet walk along the river than a night out at a crowded bar. Unfortunately, that doesn't happen and I end up continuing my journey in the evening.

I do have one encounter in the evening after all. It's with a police officer who stops me for a check. He seems very interested in my travel adventure and gives me tips for new places.

I arrive at my destination in the dark. It's a turnaround spot on the cliffs, reached by a bumpy road. Julian recommended this place to me. I would probably never have found it through my own research, too adventurous for me on my already adventurous journey. There's already another camper here. That comforts me a bit. ;-)