Man, what a day! Seriously, I’m still reeling from it. So, I woke up in Vila-Nova-de-Famalicão, right? The sun was shining, birds chirping, and I thought, “Today’s gonna be chill.” Spoiler alert: it was NOT chill.
First off, I had to hit up the market on Rua da Constituição. You know, the one with all the fresh fish? As an ichthyologist, I’m basically a fish nerd, so I was stoked. I get there, and it’s packed! Like, where did all these people come from? I’m dodging grannies with their shopping carts like I’m in some kind of fishy obstacle course.
Finally, I spot this huge cod. I mean, it was massive! I’m talking about a fish that could probably eat a small dog. I’m all excited, snapping pics for my Insta, when this dude bumps into me. I spill my coffee all over my notes. Ugh! I was so mad! Like, come on, man! It’s not like I’m just here for the free samples!
After that fiasco, I decided to take a stroll down Avenida da Liberdade. It’s a nice street, you know? Trees, cafes, the whole vibe. I needed to cool off. But then, outta nowhere, it starts pouring! I’m talking about a full-on monsoon. I duck into this little café, and guess what? They’re out of pastries. Seriously? I’m drenched, and I can’t even have a croissant to cheer me up.
So, I’m sitting there, sulking, when I overhear this couple arguing. They’re going at it about... wait for it... fish! Like, who argues about fish? I mean, I get it, fish can be a touchy subject, but c’mon! I couldn’t help but chuckle. I mean, I’m the fish expert here, and they’re just throwing around terms like “scales” and “gills.” I wanted to jump in and be like, “Yo, let me school you on some ichthyology!” But I held back.
After the rain stopped, I decided to head to Parque da Devesa. It’s this beautiful park, perfect for a walk. I needed to clear my head. I’m wandering around, and I see this pond. I’m like, “Finally, some peace!” But then, I spot this group of kids throwing bread at the ducks. I mean, come on! Ducks gotta eat too, but not like that! I’m about to give them a lecture on proper feeding practices when one of the kids slips and falls right into the pond. I couldn’t help but laugh. Sorry, not sorry!
Later, I met up with some buddies at a bar on Rua de Cândido dos Reis. We’re chatting about fish, of course, and I’m trying to explain the difference between bony and cartilaginous fish. But they’re more interested in the beer. Typical! I’m like, “Guys, this is important stuff!” But they just raise their glasses and toast to “fishy business.”
By the end of the night, I was exhausted. I walked home, reflecting on the day. Vila-Nova-de-Famalicão is wild, man. It’s got this energy that’s hard to describe. One minute you’re dodging grannies, the next you’re laughing at a kid in a pond.
I flopped onto my bed, thinking about all the fish I’d seen, the arguments I’d overheard, and the rain that ruined my coffee. But you know what? I wouldn’t trade it for anything. This city, with all its quirks and chaos, is home. And tomorrow? Who knows what’s gonna happen next!