Well, it’s been a while. My last blog was way back in early May, and now, surprise! I’m back in the Netherlands. Yep, Portugal and I are currently on a break. But don’t worry, we’re just on a summer hiatus. It was always the plan to spend these months in the Netherlands, and I’ll be returning to Portugal in November. But let’s just say: my trip ended with a bang. Literally. More on that in a bit.
Let’s rewind to mid-May, when things were still sunshine and sangria. I kicked off with a stunning coastal hike near Carrapateira, seriously, that landscape is like a Pinterest board come to life. Wild cliffs, waves crashing dramatically, and just enough uphill sections to pretend you’re athletic. After the hike, we refueled at Micro Bar in Carrapateira, highly recommend this spot for amazing burgers and refreshing drinks. It’s the kind of place that makes you consider hiking more often, just for the lunch reward.
Also, shout-out to my friend Rute and me for winning the Best Team Name at the pub quiz. I don’t even remember the name, but I remember the glory.
Then, my best friend Ilona came to visit. We went stand-up paddling near Ponta da Piedade in Lagos, picture dramatic cliffs, turquoise waters, and two semi-coordinated people trying not to fall in. Miraculously, we stayed upright! We also ate our way through some fabulous food, with Boaty’s in Luz stealing the crown. (Yes, again. Yes, always.)
Other friends from the Netherlands dropped by for lunch, where else but Boaty’s, and I managed to squeeze in one final hike with Rute, complete with a farewell pastel de nata. It was the bittersweet kind of goodbye that tastes like cinnamon and saudade.
Then came the grand plan: a glorious month-long road trip through Spain and Portugal. I kicked things off in Sevilla, gorgeous architecture, vibrant streets, and that dry heat that turns your sunscreen into soup. Cordoba and Ronda were also on the itinerary, with Ronda’s dramatic cliffs and Cordoba’s patios stealing the show. I even did a breathtaking hike near Zuheros. I sampled local delicacies like Iberico ham and churros (you know, for cultural reasons). It was all shaping up beautifully.
Then… June 16th happened. I had just taken my car for its yearly inspection in Sevilla and not ten minutes later, I found myself stuck in a traffic jam, standing still on the road, when BOOM. A car behind me didn’t notice I wasn’t moving, accelerated, and drove straight into me, hard.
The crash wasn’t just loud, it was loud enough to echo through the rest of my holiday. Nobody around spoke English, the insurance company was more elusive than decent Wi-Fi in the Spanish countryside, and I felt completely alone. Like, the kind of alone where you start naming the cracks in the ceiling.
But because I’m stubborn (and had non-refundable bookings), I soldiered on. Rented a car, swallowed my anxiety, and drove back to Portugal to photograph some abandoned buildings. I was nervy behind the wheel, but I captured some really strong shots. Worth it? Almost.
Next up: a trip to a friend near Barcelona. We explored the region and the absolute highlight was Siurana, a fairytale mountain village with jaw-dropping views, incredible food, and so much charm it should be illegal. Think: cobbled streets, cliff-top churches, and zero tourists asking for ketchup.
Finally, I made my way to Barcelona and boarded a long train ride to Germany. Ilona (bless her) picked me up and drove me back to the Netherlands, where I’ll be staying for the next few months. Still no resolution on the car mess, by the way. I’m currently on a first-name basis with insurance people.
It feels good to be back in familiar territory, where I can hopefully find some calm after the storm. And, optional overshare: heartbreak came knocking again. I’d worked so hard to heal while I was in Portugal, only to feel like I had to start over once I got home. Men, am I right?
So here I am, blog published, heart a bit bruised, car still broken, but hopeful. Because even when life falls apart, there’s always pastel de nata. And honestly, that’s enough reason to keep going.
Until next time, let’s hope the next update involves fewer collisions and even more food.
