New York, United States, November 2022

In November 2022, while transferring from Lisbon to Panama City, I had a layover in Newark, which offered me a unique opportunity to visit Manhattan. It was a beautiful, sunny day, albeit a little cold, but the clear skies and crisp air made the walk around the city all the more enjoyable.

I took the train from Newark Airport to Penn Station, and from there, I began a nostalgic walk through the streets of Manhattan. Spending around five hours wandering, I revisited some of the places that I had fond memories of from when I worked for Action Against Hunger many years ago.

Back then, I had visited Manhattan often, either for work-related meetings or for moments of escape from the pressures of humanitarian work. Walking those same streets now brought a rush of memories—some of exhaustion, but many more of gratitude and growth.

As I passed by familiar spots like Times Square, Broadway, and the theaters, I remembered how I used to enjoy the bustling energy of the city, even when I was on the go, juggling deadlines and responsibilities. Now, I had the chance to take it all in at my own pace, appreciating the vibrant life around me. The familiar sound of the subway, the yellow cabs, and the ever-present bustle of crowds took me back to those earlier days.

During my walk, I also found myself reflecting on the changes in my life and career since those times, and the growth I’ve experienced over the years. There was something special about being back in Manhattan, where so many of my early professional memories had been formed. It felt like a kind of full circle moment, marking the end of an unforgettable journey that included the celebrations of my 50th birthday.

Visiting Manhattan on this sunny autumn day was truly a fitting way to close this chapter of travel and celebration. The city, with all its energy, history, and familiar streets, will always have a special place in my heart.

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Funchal, Portugal, November 2022

In November 2022, I celebrated my 50th birthday in Portugal, a special occasion spent with those who mean the most to me. This year’s celebrations were particularly meaningful, as I spent time in my adoptive country, surrounded by friends and family.

The Start of the Celebrations – Lisbon and the Surrounding Areas

The celebrations began with Maria, Mahendra, and their friends. We explored the beautiful regions around Lisbon, including:
• Cascais, a coastal town known for its beaches and elegant charm.
• Sintra, a town straight out of a fairytale, with its palaces and gardens, especially the Pena Palace and the Moorish Castle.
• Carcavelos, a beach area where Maria and Mahendra live, offering a perfect blend of surfing culture and coastal relaxation.
• Setúbal, a port city known for its delicious seafood, and Santiago do Cacém and São Francisco de Serra, where we explored the peaceful countryside of southern Portugal.

Family Joins – Madeira’s Stunning Landscape and Warmth

The next part of the celebration was even more special, as my mother, brother Pawel, his wife Kasia, and their youngest daughter Zosia arrived from Kraków. After spending some time together in Lisbon, we flew to the island of Madeira, a truly magical place that exceeded all expectations.

We spent five days exploring Madeira, renting a car to drive through the island’s dramatic landscapes. Madeira is a paradise for nature lovers, and the island’s volcanic mountains, lush rainforests, and coastal cliffs make it one of the most unique places I’ve ever visited. Some of the standout spots were:
• Câmara de Lobos – A picturesque fishing village, with colourful boats and a quaint harbour. This spot was Churchill’s favourite, and it’s easy to see why with its beauty and peacefulness.
• Curral das Freiras – A hidden gem in the mountains, surrounded by steep cliffs and lush greenery. It felt like a secluded paradise, with an air of mystery and serenity.
• São Vicente – This coastal town, located in the north of the island, is famous for its caves and volcanic landscapes, offering spectacular views and a chance to explore Madeira’s geological history.
• Porto Moniz – Known for its natural volcanic rock pools, where we swam in the crystal-clear water surrounded by rugged cliffs and a stunning view of the Atlantic Ocean.
• Fajã da Ovelha – A small village in the western part of the island, where we hiked to stunning viewpoints and enjoyed Madeira’s peaceful rural life.
• Paul do Mar and Ponta do Sol – Secluded coastal villages where we enjoyed the tranquillity and breathtaking ocean views. The journey along the narrow mountain roads was an adventure in itself, with lush green terraces and steep cliffs lining the way.
• Camacha – Famous for its traditional wickerwork, this village offered a glimpse into Madeira’s rich cultural heritage.
• São Roque do Faial – Another mountain village with incredible views of the island and a chance to enjoy some of the most unspoiled landscapes on the island.
• Santana – Known for its traditional A-framed houses, which are symbolic of Madeira’s cultural roots.

The island’s natural beauty left me in awe, and its warm climate and lush landscapes made it feel like a true escape from the everyday. It was clear that Madeira is a place where nature and culture blend seamlessly, offering a unique experience for every traveler.

Back to Continental Portugal – More Adventures and Relaxation

After our time in Madeira, we flew back to continental Portugal and spent additional time near Óbidos, where I enjoyed my Portuguese home. We also visited:
• Peniche – A town known for its surfing and beautiful cliffs.
• Ferrel, where Zosia had the chance to learn how to surf, adding a bit of adventure to our coastal exploration.
• São Martinho do Porto – A peaceful bay town, ideal for relaxation by the water.
• Nazaré – Famous for its giant waves, a must-see for any lover of the ocean.
• Alcobaça – The Alcobaça Monastery was a beautiful historical stop, and the surrounding gardens added to the charm of the town.

Celebrating with Family and Friends

We were later joined by Maria and Mahendra in Maceira and Sintra, where we enjoyed one last evening together. It was a perfect way to close the celebrations before saying our goodbyes.

As my family returned to Poland, I flew to Newark and then back to Panama City, carrying with me the memories of an unforgettable 50th birthday in Portugal and Madeira. It was a journey filled with family, beautiful landscapes, and moments I will cherish forever.

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