I landed in Lisbon on Saturday after a long but smooth flight from San Francisco. Really good to be back – Lisbon is a great place that for many years was somewhat off the radar relative to other European destinations. No more. – it now seems like everyone wants to visit and many Americans want to live here (gee, I wonder why….). It’s just as beautiful and charming as during my last visit with Matt and Mark.

After checking into my hotel, I meandered down to Avenida Da Liberdade, with its elegant parks, cafes and stylish Lisboetas. I had a delicious dinner at an outdoor cafe right across from the park. Here are some shots of the afternoon:

After dinner I met a large number of Ukrainians playing music, singing folk songs and asking for peoples’ help in their war against Russian aggression. They were super nice and extremely grateful for my help there four years ago. One, Roman, asked me to hold the flags he was carrying after I asked to photograph him. Great guy who’s completely heartbroken about the war.

This is the center of the universe for sardine lovers. Incredible store and contents. It was like Disneyland inside. A shipment home was a must…

I was whooped after the travel and time change, and hit the sack for a 6 am car to the airport and flight to Marakkech to officially begin my journey. Next stop – Morocco….