Portugal – Coastline at the end of the road

June 2015, Portugal

Consider where Portugal sits in the world.  Geographically, it may be the most isolated country in Europe, sharing a land border only with Spain.  And that border is remote, arid and mountainous.

But the coastline, where most of the Portuguese live, is a welcoming place.  It has a simple beauty, maybe a little like California, but a lot less crowded.  There is sun and rain and the water is warm.

Maybe all this helps explain the people: they are gracious hosts, who have a low-key calm that makes the stranger feel welcome and relaxed.  They take obvious pride in their home. They keep their storefronts and streets clean; those who work the land have a deep connection to it and previous generations who worked it.

In restaurants, customers are expected to linger, to enjoy another glass of Port or a dessert, and not ask for the bill right away.  If you let it, Portugal can get under your skin like few places can.

Advertisements