Portugal

This is a more descriptive feeling of the country. Lisbon graffiti, protests, the most abandon buildings I've ever seen. Antiques stores full of heirlooms, stocked to the brim. It was right after the crisis and it hit Portugal hard. But that was good for the artists and creatives - they knew how to survive already. The streets became alive with them and their work. Porto was already transforming itself into a cultural and artistic creative capital for a long time. Our friends took us to beautiful places. We were on a food tour as well. When you travel with a chef, it's an extra bonus. Porto also surprised me with its fame for being a chocolate cake capital. Thanks to one Portuguese friend in New York, over the years I'd gotten to meet so many Portuguese friends who lived in New York and went back to Portugal. I was so inspired by their creative spirit and resilience! I bonded with some over our love for Mozambique since we'd spent time there and our shared enthusiasm for Afro-Portuguese music and food. Yes, we ate the best bacalau and other traditional Portuguese dishes. I was enchanted by the charming bars and lounges, cafes, restaurants and incredible bookstores! The architecture and azulejos are to die for - makes me go weak in the knees. I was constantly swooning over the decorative arts of the country, but I knew that would be the case, ever since the first time I visited years ago. An extraordinary country with kind people and beautiful scenery. A tiny place but a big heart.