Travel Diaries – Hong Kong & Macau

Hong Kong Harbour
Hong Kong as seen from across the harbour in Kowloon.

Hong Kong was the first stop on my three week tour of China. I timed the visit so that I could run the Hong Kong Half Marathon. I had about a week to take in the city and see the sights. It was barely enough time in my opinion but those are the risks when you combine a race together with a vacation.  Continue reading “Travel Diaries – Hong Kong & Macau”

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Travel Diaries – Lisbon, Portugal Part II

lisbon_train
Boarding the train at Rossio station – next stop Sintra!

Even though our trip to Lisbon was short, we had the opportunity to do a few quick day trips. We visited the towns of Sintra and Cascais, which are both located just 45 minutes outside of Lisbon. Trains to both destinations depart regularly from the Rossio and Cais do Sodre stations respectively.  Continue reading “Travel Diaries – Lisbon, Portugal Part II”

Travel Diaries – Lisbon, Portugal

lisbon_rooftops
A rooftop view of the Alfama district complete with a view of mouth of the Tagus River.

Sometimes I travel and not just to run races but to explore and to experience new cultures. I recently travelled to Lisbon, Portugal with friends for a much needed break. Even though it was a short trip, we still managed to take in quite a few of the sights. A few quick facts about Lisbon:

• Lisbon is the capital and the largest city in Portugal and one of the oldest cities in Europe.

• Alfama is the oldest district in Lisbon and the only to survive the earthquake of 1775 which destroyed most of the city.

• Lisbon is nicknamed “The City of Seven Hills”; the city streets often traverse steep inclines and many are paved with cobblestones.

• Many in Lisbon speak both English and Portugese, tourists who don’t speak Portugese should be able to get by. Continue reading “Travel Diaries – Lisbon, Portugal”