Friday~20th December~2013~ Day Four
The day dawned as we approached the river Tagus leading into Lisbon, Portugal. The sun came up in a blaze with a wonderful sunrise, and Margaret and I were able to get out on the balcony and take some lovely photographs. Captain Rentell commenced to give us a running commentary as we sailed under the Lisbon bridge, past the statue of Christ the Redeemer into Lisbon harbour
We entered the Estufa Fria or cold greenhouse, termed cold, as there is no artificial heating in use at all, just a wooden lath roof and walls that condition the plants and protect them from the extreme temperatures of Winter. There are a large number of green tropical plants laid out in the cold greenhouse, Margaret and I recognised one of our favourites from Australia, the “Bird of Paradise Orchid,” in flower. There are many pools full of goldfish, covered with water lilies, sadly not in flower at this time of the year. Waterfalls cascade within, and quite a number of interesting statues are strategically placed to enhance the experience of the gardens
Back on board we enjoyed taking photographs of a wonderful sunset to crown a beautiful visit.
We then changed into our formal attire to attend a welcome aboard cocktail party, hosted by the Captain, drinks, canape's, conversation and a very amusing speech from the Captain. This, followed by a very good dinner, where we learnt the sad news that Oonagh, one of our dining companions, has suffered a fall in their cabin, and is in a local hospital accompanied by Raymond her husband. This put a damper on our spirits and although we all enjoyed a wonderful meal, we missed their contribution to the dining experience.
Margaret and I then retired to our cabin to read and sleep, the ship is berthed in Lisbon overnight tonight.