We knew winter in Portugal would be a little damp and rainy, but were hopeful that that would be contained to the great outdoors.

Turns out Portuguese apartments, like many across Europe, are lacking in a bit of insulation. Our apartment is also lacking in having any source of heat. We have nothing. Our only source of heat is the sun, on our little front balcony, when it comes out. 

So it was off to the local store to purchase an electric heater. For 24 hours, it helped, but then it conked out. Stay tuned to this part of the story to see what happens next, if we can get a refund or exchange, and if that will maybe last a bit longer.

Meanwhile we're figuring out how to stay dry, and thus warm, and not letting it get to us. We pile on the extra layers and whatever non-musty blankets we can find.

The sun came out today at least in full force, and that made a huge difference. Wandering around the local neighbourhood gives a very authentic glimpse of daily life in urban Portugal, from corner stores and fruit markets to little playgrounds and lots of graffiti. 

We're starting to feel adjusted settled. But is there anything else we can do about the damp?

* The view in this episode's cover art picture is of the National Pena Palace on top of the distant hill, from the corner of our balcony.