Where to begin and how to decide where to go in Europe? The some what easy answer is to follow your heart and go where it tells you to go along the way. In general picking out a few main countries you really want to see is a must and then whatever falls into place afterwards is the bonus and might possibly be the best part or worst, but will always be an adventure.
Before leaving on January 19, 2015 there was of course a few decisions made. Buying a flight to Europe was a difficult decision as prices and connections vary so much from Western Canada. Lucky a seat sale came up flying direct to Frankfurt round trip. Although it wasn’t my starting point and even with an extra flight to Portugal it at the time was the best option. Needless to say who would have known the Frankfurt Hahn airport is an hour and a half away from the international one. A long flight, shuttle bus to Hahn airport and shuttle to a traditional German hotel in the middle of no where was not all. Back again the next day and finally a flight to Lisbon, Portugal. Don’t regret going the cheaper way as it was nice to just sleep for a day from jet leg, but pay the extra money if you don’t want the hassle.
Wow is all I can say. Lisbon, Portugal was worth the wait. On top of the city being incredible, I stayed in the nicest hostel yet called Lisbon Destination Hostel. Took a chance that it was above a train station but can’t even describe how perfect the location and hostel was. The atmosphere made it super easy to meet fellow travellers. One night was filled with going to a jazz bar which was pretty great to be a part of. What do I mean by that? Well hardly anyone drinks but just falls deeply into a trance and listens quietly to every single word sung and note played. Another night was again beautiful music a type called Fado. Fado originated in the Alfarma neighbourhood. Of course can’t forget about the food in Portugal. Tapas and pastries and yes wine or Sangria to go with it. Best pastry in the world, you will find at Pasteis de Belem. Pastel de Nara is a must and you are going to want to buy more then one. Belem is a very historical neighbourhood as well so there is many monuments to see and take the old tram back to the centre.
Next day was off to the bus station to head to the coast to Lagos. Standing at the bus stop and not expecting to meet a Canadian couple close to my hometown. We traveled together and still managed to get off at the wrong bus stop as there wasn’t any signs and the bus driver gave us our luggage. He did know we were going to Lagos by the way. Anyways another bus ticket got us to our beautiful destination although quite a ghost town in winter as it’s usually a surf place. Wasn’t able to find anyone to take me paddle boarding through the grottos but it was worth being on portugal beaches and have them all to ourselves. The centre still was great for walking around and finding traditional restaurants serving delicious sangria and yummy food. Never thought I would put octopus and delicious in the same sentence either. Had to say goodbye to the Canadians but off I went on another bus ride to Spain.

Spain’s till next time. It’s bed time so I can get to Spanish school in the morning.