PORTUGAL
Olá, amigos!
I’m still feeling the afterglow from one of the most unforgettable stops on my world tour—Portugal. Honestly, I didn’t know what to expect before I arrived, but let me tell you, this country breathed music and love in a way I’ve never experienced before. From the moment I landed in Lisbon to the last note I sang in Porto, Portugal felt like a beautiful, unexpected chapter in my journey.
I’ve always heard people rave about Portugal, but the magic of this place completely swept me off my feet. From its rich history and stunning landscapes to the warmth of the people and the fire in their hearts, Portugal became a place I won’t soon forget.
The first stop was Lisbon, and wow, what a city! There’s something about Lisbon that feels like home—an energy in the air that makes you want to stop, look around, and take it all in. The cobblestone streets, the colorful tiles on the buildings, the way the city rolls from the hills to the sea—it’s mesmerizing. It’s like a perfect blend of old-world charm and vibrant modern culture.
One of my favorite things to do when I first arrive in a new city is just to wander. So, I threw on some comfortable shoes and spent a whole day exploring. I started in Alfama, the old district, where the streets twist and turn like a maze. It’s hard to believe this area has been around for centuries—the narrow alleyways, the small cafes, the sound of Fado music floating from doorways. It felt like stepping into a living museum. But it’s not stuck in the past—there’s a real creative energy here, from the street art to the modern shops and restaurants popping up everywhere.
And don’t even get me started on the food. Pastéis de nata (the iconic Portuguese custard tarts)—I had my first one and I was hooked. It’s like they put magic in those little pastries. And of course, the seafood was out of this world. Lisbon’s food culture made me feel like I was experiencing every flavor of life, and I tried to savor every single bite.
Now, let’s talk about the show. If I thought I was prepared for the energy of a Lisbon crowd, I was wrong—these fans don’t hold back. From the very first note, I could feel the connection between me and the crowd. They got it. They weren’t just listening to the music—they were living it with me. It was electric, powerful, and so full of passion.
It’s a beautiful thing to perform for people who understand music as more than just sound. The way they reacted to each song was pure magic—singing along, dancing, jumping, and even waving Portuguese flags. You could feel the unity in the air. And it wasn’t just in the big moments—it was in the little things too. The way the crowd leaned in when I sang an emotional ballad, the way they cheered after a high-energy number… it was one of those performances that you just know will stay with you forever.
After the show, the energy didn’t die down. I had the chance to meet a few fans who had traveled from all over the country just to be there, and their stories blew me away. Portugal isn’t a place where people just go to a concert and leave. There’s a level of loyalty and connection that’s so rare, and I could feel it in every interaction.
Next up was Porto, and honestly, I wasn’t sure what could top Lisbon. But Porto quickly showed me it has its own unique charm. It’s smaller, more intimate, and the vibe is completely different—but just as rich and soulful.
Porto feels like it’s wrapped in history. The moment I walked along the banks of the Douro River, with the colorful buildings lining the water, I couldn’t help but think about the countless generations that had walked those same streets. It’s a city that wears its past proudly, yet it’s alive with modern creativity. I spent a lot of time in Ribeira, the historic district, wandering through the winding streets, stopping for a coffee at a café overlooking the river, and just soaking in the views.
But what really stood out to me about Porto was the local music scene. I went out one night to hear some live Portuguese music at a cozy venue, and it was incredible. The way they mix traditional sounds with contemporary styles is unlike anything I’ve ever heard. You could hear the heart of Porto in the music—it’s raw, it’s soulful, it’s full of history and emotion. It reminded me why I love music in the first place: it’s this universal language that connects us all, no matter where we come from.
What really made Portugal unforgettable, though, were the people. I don’t know if I’ve ever met a group of fans who are so warm, welcoming, and full of love. The connection we shared wasn’t just about music—it was about the bond we built in those moments.
There was one fan who caught my attention in Lisbon. She had come all the way from a small town on the coast, and when we met backstage, she shared how much my music had meant to her during a tough time in her life. It’s moments like that that remind me of the real power of music: it can heal, uplift, and bring people together in ways that words can’t.
I was blown away by how many fans in both Lisbon and Porto spoke to me in English, but also with such pride in their own culture and language. Their pride in their country was contagious. Portugal is a place where people aren’t just proud of their heritage—they live it, breathe it, and share it with everyone they meet. It’s impossible not to be touched by their warmth.
Leaving Portugal was bittersweet. I feel like I’ve only scratched the surface of everything this country has to offer. From the music to the food, the art to the people, I truly felt like I was part of something larger than myself during my time there. Portugal gave me more than just beautiful memories—it gave me a sense of belonging, a feeling that no matter where I go, I’ll always carry a piece of Portugal with me.
Thank you to everyone who made my time in Portugal so incredible. I will always remember your passion, your energy, and the way you embraced me as one of your own. I can’t wait to come back and experience more of what this beautiful country has to offer.
Até logo,
Lily x
P.S. If you ever get the chance to visit Portugal, don’t just go for the big cities—get off the beaten path and explore the hidden gems. From the small coastal towns to the vineyards in the Douro Valley, Portugal has a way of surprising you at every turn.