hello from Portugal!

we arrived in this new and unique country about a week ago and I’m still trying to grasp what makes this place so different from the other cities and cultures I have experienced. first of all, I am truly enjoying Portuguese culture, people, vast history, and food—lots of good carbs in all forms and delicious meat  the best way for me to describe the city of Lisbon, the nation’s capital, is as an old, less westernized/Americanized European city. the city is literally all black and white cobblestones in different designs with tall buildings covered in bright tiles. laundry still hangs from lines on every floor—including at ground level, and the city’s diverse population clearly embodies their history of exploration and occupation in various nations. the monuments and people also reflect their recent civil war and change to a democracy in 1974 after years under a dictator. my initial misinterpretation of Lisbon as rough and less friendly has since been more accurately replaced with a better understanding and appreciation for a different type of beauty and rich culture.
now, we are relaxing in a walled city outside of the capital called Évora. once again, the town is full of history from ancient Roman ruins to 12th century churches. pictures to come :)
another interesting thing about Portugal is that there are so few Americans traveling here! so far, we have probably met/heard less than 10 Americans—it’s kinda neat 

Lisbon...main walking street with cobblestones and Tejo River ahead

Lisbon

Lisbon...the city is full of yellow street cars like this one. the idea actually came from San Francisco's cablecars...California makes its contribution :)

Sintra...tilework on castle out of a fairytale novel

Sintra (15 miles north of Lisbon)...the fairytale castle aka the Pena Palace and escape for royals

Sintra...back of castle with view of the Moorish Castle ruins

Sintra...the Moorish castle. We were able to clim on top of these ancient walls and look up at the castle above. Just doing our thing and castle hopping for the day haha

Lisbon...nieghborhood called Belem. this is the Tower of Belem, which was built to protect Lisbon's harbor and was the departing and arrival spot of the great voyagers.