Day 3 - Taps aff in Portugal

A busy day yesterday meant Alexander slept right through until 8am — a real lie-in for him — missing his usual morning walk and birdwatching expedition with Marshall. Undeterred, Marshall went off to fetch breakfast … topless. Unfortunately, the cashier at the bakery pointed out the sign stating “shirts must be worn,” to which Marshall casually asked if she just didn’t like his body. Cue laughter from everyone involved, and he returned triumphantly with croissants , fresh orange juice and still no shirt on!

Anna had taken over bed-reserving duties this morning and everyone got themselves pool-ready. I needed to stay back for a work call and joined later. It was a long morning and we all resisted the temptation of morning beers, holding off like responsible adults until lunchtime.

Lunch was back at the apartment before Amy and I headed down the road to the local tennis club for a quick game of padel. Amy’s first session, and she was smashing it. Although, this time, I found myself being told to put a shirt on, this time by a nearby builder. What is it with these people and our bodies?

We drove back and went straight into the pool where Alexander got his usual dunking. Afterwards, I took him to the shop (wearing a shirt this time), and the guy let us skip the queue. Honestly, travelling with a baby is the ultimate life hack.

Happy hour kicked in back at the pool and we spent a long time there with Alexander trying out new tricks in the water while we soaked up some sun. After an extended session, we all headed back, got showered, and made our way towards the marina.

Dinner tonight was at Natraj Indian, which Amy’s been talking about all week. Alexander was back on his rota system, being walked round the adjoining square and restaurant as he got increasingly cranky, but still had energy for his new favourite thing: flicking his lips and making sounds like a motorboat.

Marshall managed to spill his food not once but twice, and in an attempt to avoid public embarrassment, tried to cover the spots with a bright yellow napkin. Thankfully he used two sunglasses instead…not better, but at least not worse.

Post-dinner, we took a lovely stroll along the marina. Anna and I even bought matching hats. I’m not usually a hat guy, but apparently, it worked. We walked right to the end and back before piling into the car. I drove us home while Amy and Marshall arrived later, having had to opt for the scenic walk due to lack of car space.

A quieter night followed, heading to bed to rest up for whatever adventure Day 4 has in store.