We embarked on our eleventh day of adventure in Lisbon, Portugal, aboard the luxurious MS Nieuw Statendam, courtesy of Holland America Line. Our destination for the day: Belem, a district renowned for its historical landmarks and delectable pastries.
As we disembarked the ship, the vibrant energy of Lisbon embraced us, infused with a blend of tradition and modernity. With eager anticipation, we set out to explore Belem’s treasures, marked by centuries of maritime history and cultural richness.
Our first stop was the iconic Belém Tower, a UNESCO World Heritage site standing proudly at the edge of the Tagus River. As we wandered through its intricately adorned chambers and climbed its ancient staircases, we were transported back to the Age of Discovery, imagining the courageous voyages of explorers who once set sail from these shores.
Next on our itinerary was the majestic Jerónimos Monastery, an architectural masterpiece that mesmerized us with its grandeur. We marveled at the intricate carvings adorning its façade, a testament to Portugal’s golden age of exploration. Inside, the serene cloisters whispered tales of devotion and artistic brilliance, leaving us in awe of the country’s rich heritage.
No visit to Belem would be complete without indulging in its culinary delights, and we eagerly made our way to the renowned Pastéis de Belém bakery. Here, we sampled the legendary pastel de nata, a creamy custard tart encased in flaky pastry, a true taste of Portuguese tradition. With each bite, we savored the harmony of flavors, a perfect blend of sweetness and nostalgia.
As the day drew to a close, we returned to the MS Nieuw Statendam, hearts full of memories and cameras filled with snapshots of Belem’s beauty. Our day in Lisbon had been a captivating journey through history, culture, and gastronomy, made all the more unforgettable by the impeccable hospitality of Holland America Line. As we set sail once more, we carried with us the spirit of exploration and the promise of new adventures on the horizon.
In Lisbon's embrace, we took flight,
On Holland America's vessel, bright.
To Belem's shores, our hearts did steer,
In Portugal's charm, we found allure near.
MS Nieuw Statendam, our guide through the sea,
A voyage of wonder, where spirits roam free.
Past Belém Tower, standing proud and grand,
Echoes of history, whispers in the sand.
Jerónimos Monastery, a sanctuary of old,
Where tales of exploration, in stone, are told.
Cloisters adorned with art's delicate grace,
In reverence we wandered, in awe of this place.
Then to Pastéis de Belém, where pastries reign,
Sweet custard delights, in flaky domain.
Tasting tradition, with each blissful bite,
In culinary ecstasy, we found our light.
Lisbon's symphony, a melody divine,
Of culture, history, and flavors entwine.
With Holland America, our journey complete,
In Belem's embrace, our memories sweet.
