We were kindly invited by the British Consul, Simona Demuro to attend an event at which the Prince of Wales and his wife the Duchess of Cornwall were to open the newly restored Moserrat Rose Gardens and meet some of the local people.  It was a surprise and a pleasure to be invited in recognition of the contrubution we make to the local community through Portugal Friends.

There was a great deal of organisation done on the part of the British Embassy and as the (long and winding) road to the Monserrat Gardens were to be closed, we were advised to take the bus which they had organsied from Lisbon which would take us right there ... well almost.

We have only passed through Sintra and so as yet have not fully discovered or explored this lovely city and now very much look forward to doing so.  The walk down to the reception area was a winding cobbled path and we were well advised not to wear unsuitable shoes as I think more than a few of us would have struggled.  With so much happening there wasn't time to investigate and wander through the gardens, but it is firmly on the list of places to visit.

The Prince of Wales and the Duchess of Cornwall arrived late, but in seeing their schedule we understood that it was surprising that it was not later.  They were of course accompanied by the usual 'men in black', not mentioning the frenzy of press, it was surprising it all went so well.  Their Royal Highnesses conducted the whole affair as if none of these were present and turned their attention to meeting and greeting the people gathered who had waited patiently for their arrival.  While we've always imagined the conversations they have with people,  we were more than a little surprised by their sincere interest, approachability and unhurried manner (probably what makes them late) in trying to speak to as many people as they could possibly and taking a personal interest in each.

We were more than a little impressed by them both and can say that it was a pleasure to meet them personally as it has positively changed our perception of them and will remain in our memory archive as a great occasion for us.  Our thanks especially to the British Consul for her part in inviting and hosting us.

Photographs curtesy of Hey Portugal and a full article.