The Lisbon Connection

In December, thousands of colorful lights decorate Lisbon. Portuguese people love ‘the most wonderful time of the year’, celebrating Christmas with a lot of X-mas kitsch. Everywhere you look you see blinking neon lights, Christmas markets and decorated shops. If you are a Christmas hater, maybe it’s a better idea to visit this fascinating city some other time of the year

Rua da Prata, December 2009.

Movie Christmas decoration

National Theatre Teatro Nacional Doña Maria II.

Christmas time in Lisbon is similar to everywhere else in the world, except that the decorations has a higher kitsch factor.

Rua da Palma,

lingerie shop close to one of my favorite restaurants in Lisbon, RAMIRO

Hermes, Largo do Chiado 9.

They really love  Christmas window dressing with animals! (Christmas 2008)

Watch-guard shop near Rossio, Praça da Figueira

Further, there’s a giant 44m Christmas tree (You Tube video), set up on the highest point of Eduardo VII park, with 1.625.000 (!!) mini lights, lighting up the tree’s decorations from 17:30 pm – 1am. Of course, children love it!

Lisbon’s unique & original Ladra Alternativa (Alternative Flea Market ).

Christmas decoration made from recycled Nespresso caps (3 euro)

A creative idea to make some money at Christmas time……

Benetton shop Lisbon, window dressing,  Rua Garrett

The clothing market shrinked this year because of the crisis, as well as the sweaters of  Benetton in the window ;-)

Maria dos Angos (Maria of the Angels) & Jesus Lee

Nowadays Maria & Jesus own a famous restaurant in Mouraria, a historical area of Lisbon. Cook is Jesus Lee (Goan origin) and owner is Maria dos Angus (Maria of the Angels). The genuine Goan family food is created with Jesus’ love! “Tentações (Temptations) de Goa”.

A nice holiday  3-bedroom apartment with patio in this area

NEW YEAR: on the night of December 31, Lisbon is one big street party! Live music and a fantastic fireworks display at Parque das Nações , ( EXPO 98).  The famous square Praça do Comércio will be filled on the night of December 31st with concerts by Portuguese bands and with the lights of the fireworks at midnight. Cultural agenda Lisbon

According to the Portuguese tradition, twelve wishes are made to the sound of the twelve bell tolls, toasting with champaign to the new year.

HAPPY NEW YEAR! FELIZ ANO NOVO!

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