Lost: Lisbon

I have been enjoying a delightful four days in Costa Azul. I took part in a temporary four day trip sponsored by AFS where I lived with a different host family, hung out with other AFSers and saw parts of Lisbon, and the surrounding area. It was great to speak in english, meet other american exchange students and exchange students from around the world.
On the first day, due to a series of errors committed by various parties, a student from Switzerland and I ended up taking a VERY round-about way to Cacilhas. It was a fun detour and I got to see a bit of Lisbon. We eventually got to our destination, 2.5 hours late. We visited the beach, made the best of bad weather, enjoyed the company of fellow exchange students and shared stories, experiences and photos.
In response to some requests, I will give a bit of a summary about the People, the Culture and My Family. The Portuguese, in my experience, are very group oriented people. They also care a great deal about guests, friends or companions feeling comfortable. Another important feature is that they stay out late, 10 pm is early, midnight is when you go out, give or take a little. Even for dinners or having company over, staying very late by american standards is common.
My family is incredible. They have been more than tolerant of me, and constantly helpful not only with the language, but with everything else. I could not have asked for a better family. At first, I was a little frustrated that I was living about as far from Lisbon as I could get, but now I am delighted to be where I am. Its great.
Pictures and more text is coming soon.