This week’s blogger crush is the bubbly Sofia from Sofia na Australia who seems to possess a constant source of positive energy to see the world! Honestly, I’m in a love-hate relationship with her on Facebook – on days when I’m strapped to my work desk she’ll be out on the beach basking in the sun, sitting underneath a palm tree wearing her Kameleonz sunnies on the Queensland coast with a glowing smile on her face – how is that even fair? Whether it rains or shines, Sofia always seems to be out and about enjoying some bonding time with the sand and surf. I spent a few minutes with this bloggy sweetheart to hear about her colourful travel tales and the inspiration behind her never-ending desire to explore.
Biggest guilty pleasure while travelling…
S: Never organize things before hand!
I love the feeling of spontaneity and freedom that comes with travel – you never know where your travels may lead you.
Most memorable travel experience?
S: Going on a plane by myself to visit my Aunt who was living in Germany. I remember it so vividly – the excitement, the wonder of a new culture, language and I could do it! This definitely was the start of my travel bug that I have never shaken off, nor wanted to.
Most hilarious animal encounters and where was it?
S: Paul and I left one Friday after work for the Sunshine Coast (Queensland) and drove through the windy dirt roads that lead to the Montville National park. We eventually set up our 2 man tent well after dark. There was no one else in our chosen spot and a couple of hours into our sleep all I could hear was a strong breath and growl knocking into trees. We bravely unzipped the tent and there it was a massive wild boar right next to our tent running into tree logs. I think it was not long after this we decided to get a roof top tent!
Best secret hangout spots in your current city?
S: Southern end of the Gold Coast/North end of New South Wales state boasts Australia’s finest beaches. Head to Fingal beachj – a great spot for diving, fishing or just relaxing and soaking up the sun. An early evening meal with local tunes at the Sheoak Shack is a must.
Another great spot for dinner, live music and shopping is at Miami Market! From quirky designers to yummy street food there are plenty of things to keep you busy amongst a local favorite outing.
Nestled among lush bushland, rocky outcrops and chirping native birds, Cudgen Creek is the ideal spot to cruise along with a snorkel, paddle a kayak or stand up paddleboard.
You must head inland on a scenic drive through some beautiful subtropical rainforest and amazing mountains. Natural bridge cave comes to life at dusk with thousands of glow worms. It is wondrous and mystical, so be sure to leave plenty of time to revel in their light.
If you were a tourist in your home country how would you spend a day in town?
S: I would start with a run or walk along Belem area, where some of Lisbon’s oldest and most striking monuments in Portugal are located. Head to the balcony of Sao Pedro de Alcantara to take in the views of the impressive Tejo River, the castle and the rooftops of inner city Lisbon.
You have to stop and eat somewhere and luckily Portuguese people love cafe culture! Sit down at a table and smile at the regulars and those passing by with a friendly “bom dia!” If you feel like something sweet, you must go to Pasteis de Belem – the best Portuguese tart you will ever find. Order two (trust me) with a coffee, your day will already feel complete!
Lisbon is a beautiful city and best seen from all angles. Save your legs and enjoy a ride to the top of Arco da Rua Augusta. The view will take your breath away!
Keep walking forward, passing more narrow streets, renovated and old buildings, and a small square with a church. Check out the side streets if that sounds good to you, say boa tarde to the ladies peeking out their windows, and get back to Rossio.
At Pérola do Rossio, they blend their own coffee and grind it to order for a 50-cent, aromatic shot of caffeine. Buy a batch of one of the blends, ground for whichever coffee machine you use, to take home. How I miss our coffee… Order a “cafe bica” for an espresso or “cafe cheio” for a little water in the mix.
Catch tram 15 at Praça da Figueira. It will take you around downtown (Baixa) and away from the center, in the direction of Alcântara. Stop at LX Factory.This old industrial complex, left abandoned for decades, reopened in 2007 and has established itself as a “creative island.” You can find architecture and design firms and stores, visual arts producers, art galleries, small crafts stores, cafes and restaurants, urban art on building walls, and, inside, boutiques and much more. Have a chocolate cake at Landeau and lose track of time at Ler Devagar, an incredible bookshop covered floor to ceiling with over 150,000 used and new books.
In the evening, no stay in Portugal would be complete without a trip to a Tasca to eat some local food and enjoy some wine. I would recommend the Bairro Alto area. You can have a meal then order a cocktail, wine, whatever you like from many small houses and talk with the locals as the streets overflow with people. Head to a club – Jamaica or Tokyo and dance to the older music, or Music box for electronica. If you are up for it, the Portuguese party all night, there is also Europa or Electronica which stay open until sometime the next day.
Best picking tips you hoped someone would have told you before your first trip?
S: I’ve always traveled with a backpack with my parents since I was a baby. I think they role modelled prety well. Pack a quarter of stuff you believe you will need. I can guarantee you that you will even use less than that. Oh, and never forget a jumper!
Best tips for staying fit & healthy on the road?
S:
Run, you can do it in a city or in the wild, with sunshine or pouring down rain.
You don’t need much gear, it is free and also a great way to explore a town in a different way. Ahh try to vary your music. Running with different types of music often changes the mood of the place too.
Biggest source of inspirations for seeing the world?
S: Mum and dad, always.
I grew up in a family that embraces adventure and love for the unknown.
When in doubt about going somewhere, I always call them up and their first word is invariably: go!
Your biggest gain since started blogging?
S: Meet cool people, travel to places that I never thought of before and sharing my experiences. My blog was developed with the intention of keeping my friends and family informed of what I was doing in Australia. Sharing my love of travel with them and now new friends and acquaintances is awesome! It leads to more experiences through travel.
Thank you, Sofia!
{Sofia na Australia}
So tell me fellow travelettos, do you share anything in common with Sofia? Has her story triggered your wanderlust? If you want to know more about Sofia and her travel tales leave your questions in the comments below, or go say hi on her blog.
Until next time, stay adventurous.