Lisbon

António Delfim and Clara at castelo São Jorge (foto: )

15th September Lisbon

Thanks to Antonio, Delfim and Clara, I had a real treat: a day off enjoying Lisbon under a glorious sunshine. In addition, I was taken to a culinary heaven: the Castelo Sao Jorge on one of Lisbons seven hills, overlooking the whole city has a restaurant. Amêijoa a “Bulhao Pato” followed by the traditional Bacalhao a Broa, all arosé with a superb Red wine that only Delfim could find. Life can be tough when going around the world in a motor glider! One soon forgets the many days of long flights spent with no breakfast and a lunch of just two or three cereal bars!

The conversation was light aviation at its highest level. Delfim has crossed the North Atlantic three times and flown extensively in Africa in various single and twin engines. Antonio Faria e Mello is a well know aviator in Portugal. He is the first European wheelchair aviator to fly around the world, and the second ever. And the first Portuguese to fly around the world solo. He was Director of Civil Aviation for many years – just enough time to change the rules on pilot licenses for paraplegics, he told me with a broad smile.

Every one at Cascais airport was kind and helpful. The landing fees were waived by the Airport Director, Mr Peneguiao, in a gesture rarely seen these days. Antonio Retorta took care of my flight clearances for West Africa, thank you to all. Thank you all for a wonderful stay, and Antonio, for setting me up in splendour in his family home.

Este texto foi escrito por: Margi Moss