We checked in today with Viking.  Extremely organized desk, with a lounge to boot.  Everything is running smoothly. We took two Viator Tours, the first to the Setubal wine region, the second on a sunset cruise. Both were wonderful.   The tour operators were topnotch.  We have never been disappointed with Viator. We learned a lot about Portuguese wine (both by listening to the never-silent, always informative tour guide and tasting some wine). The cruise along the Lisbon waterfront was great. As I’ve mentioned earlier, we’ve done this Viking trip before, and back then many places seemed to be better viewed from the water side.  Today we confirmed the concept.  

Though there is technically a mask-always rule, the reality is that outdoors most people are going without. However, indoors it is being treated very seriously. Good for them. I think Portugal is being quite responsible.

My SO has announced her plan to buy souvenirs early rather than at the last minute, so we checked out several tourist stops. I really enjoyed all the things you can buy that are made out of cork. There should be a cork demonstration on the riverboat, but if one’s heart is set on cork items, it’s probably cheaper in Lisbon.

The Tivoli Hotel’s restaurant is excellent. If time restricts going elsewhere, you can’t go wrong staying in-house. Breakfast is the typical European eat-whatever-you-like buffet. Too much food. The Lobby bar is also excellent for a late night closer. This blog would be the lessor without it.

Uber was a problem twice. Once the driver drove right past us and had to circle around (no small feat in Lisbon). The second time the driver had riders when he accepted our request, which delayed the process. Lesson learned; If you absolutely must get somewhere, plan to get there early.

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

•