Centre of Lisbon, Portugal, August 2023

After a month-long holiday in Europe and Madagascar, it was time for the next chapter of my life to begin. In August 2023, I departed from Kraków and made a two-day stop in Lisbon before heading to Caracas to take up my new role as ECHO’s Head of Office for Venezuela. My time in Lisbon was a wonderful final pause before the big move, and I made sure to enjoy the city’s unique charm and vibrant atmosphere.

Strolling Through Central Lisbon

I spent my first day in Lisbon wandering through the heart of the city, revisiting some of my favourite spots. There’s something magical about Lisbon’s streets—the cobblestones, the trams climbing up the hills, and the beautiful mix of historical and modern architecture. As I strolled through the Baixa district, I loved the grand squares and tree-lined avenues, the buildings in pastel colours, and the lively atmosphere of locals and tourists alike.

The walk took me through Praça do Comércio, one of Lisbon’s most iconic squares by the river, where I could feel the historic significance of the place. From there, I walked to Rua Augusta, a lively pedestrian street full of shops, cafes, and restaurants, where I stopped for a coffee to soak in the vibrancy of the area.

As I ventured further, I made my way up to Alfama, one of Lisbon’s oldest neighbourhoods. The narrow alleys, steep hills, and colourful buildings with their characteristic balconies created a truly charming atmosphere. I took my time walking around, enjoying the viewpoints that overlooked the city and river, and the peaceful ambiance of the little streets. I also made sure to visit one of my favourite spots—the Miradouro de Santa Luzia—where I could see the red rooftops and whitewashed buildings stretching all the way to the Tagus River.

Lisbon’s mellow vibe and the warmth of the sun made the walk even more enjoyable. It was a perfect way to spend my last few days in Europe before the big move to Venezuela. Every step in the city reminded me of the beauty of Lisbon—its blend of the old and the new, its rich history, and the unmistakable charm of its people.

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