Day 5 (14 March): London to Lisbon

We will wake up in London where the average temperature again reaches 7°C. But that is inconsequential on this day, 33 days from today… because we are heading to Portugal! Portugal will see an increase in average top temp by 4°C, no change in time zones, and  most importantly… Portugal means we get to see Tim and Carmen! We fly early, 7am, so will need to be at the airport around 5am. We think we might get to see a bit of Lisbon city before heading to Mafra, where Tim and Carmen live. According to google maps, Mafra is about 30 minutes from the airport.

A yellow tram in Lisbon

I’ve never been to Portugal! Here are some interesting facts about the country:

• Portugal is the westernmost country in Europe, with the westernmost mainland part of Portugal being Cabo da Roca (Cape Roca). It’s considered “the edge of Europe”.

• 10.5 million people live in Portugal, on 92,000 sq. km (which is two thirds the size of England). There are 115 inhabitants per square kilometre, which sandwiches it between Egypt and Turkey in terms of population density.

• Portugal is the oldest nation state in Europe.

• Port wine is the national drink and the most famous export.

• Portugal produces more than half the world’s cork.

• The biggest wave ever surfed was in Portugal - a 24.4m wave. Pretty sure this is one of big draw cards for Tim living in Portugal!

• The oldest bookstore in the world is in Lisbon - The Bertrand bookstore.

• Portugal is fifth in the world in terms of inclusion of renewable energy in electricity generation, with 64% of its power coming from renewable sources.