Lisbon Portugal Rooftop view

Portugal

About the Destination

In the autumn of 2022, I got a job offer for a position in Lisbon, Portugal. And with that, I decided to change my life completely, leave my small Swiss town and move abroad to a country I’ve never even been to..

I spent the next year and 5 months making new friends, travelling a little around the country and learning a lot about the Portuguese culture and myself. During my time in Lisbon, I lived in a hostel and two different apartments (one of them with 6 guys, lol). And I can tell you that apartment hunting in Lisbon was a pain, especially on a local salary.

The weather in Portugal can be amazing, and I experienced a beautiful spring and summer in the city. But I also learned how priceless and important a fan but also a heater are when you live in Portuguese buildings. I drank countless glasses of wine and Caipirinhas and tried many restaurants. Lisbon definitely has and always will have a special place in my heart.

Slow Travel in Lisbon, Portugal

Some Facts About Portugal

The Great Lisbon Earthquake

Lisbon is one of the oldest cities in the world and used to be a central location for trade and commerce. However, in 1755, the city suffered from a big earthquake followed by fires and a Tsunami that destroyed the city almost completely. Besides the buildings, libraries and palaces that were destroyed, artworks and paintings that were lost, the disaster also took many lives. The earthquake, which is often referred to as “the Great Lisbon Earthquake” is a big part of Lisbon’s history. But it’s remarkable to see the areas that were rebuilt after this disaster and how the city is flourishing.

Tiles

No matter where you go in Portugal, you will often see painted tiles. Doesn’t matter if it’s inside or outside, on the ground or the walls, you can find tiles everywhere. Some tiles have more simple patterns while others portray incredibly detailed pictures. One of my favourite artworks, which is a must-see, is the 22 thousand tiles at the São Bento Train Station in Porto, which were all painted by one person, Jorge Colaço.

Travel Stories from Portugal

My Two Favourite Things About Portugal

1. The Slow Life

Coming from a country like Switzerland, where everyone is always stressed and busy, the slow life in Portugal was a welcome change of scenery for me. I adore how the Portuguese are in love with life and that they take time to just enjoy it. No matter if that’s drinking an espresso in the sun or dancing until the sun comes up, they find joy everywhere.

2. The Wines

Through my time in Portugal, I got to taste a few different wines (including the famous “green wine” or “Vinho Verde” as the Portuguese call it). There’s just something about having a chilled glass of white or green wine while sitting on a rooftop in Lisbon and enjoying the good weather.