It’s the Belgian herfstvakantie, and this year my son and I are swapping autumn drizzle for Lisbon sunshine. I’ll keep up with work while exploring one of my favorite cities — a true workation, where the art lies in staying productive without missing the moments that matter. We’ll be based near Praça Marquês de Pombal, perfectly central and ideal for mixing remote work and adventure.
Sunday Arrival: Petiscos and First Impressions
We land on Sunday, ready to dive straight into Lisbon life. I’ve already booked dinner nearby — a petiscos feast of ameijoas à bulhão pato, pica-pau de mar, and croquetas de boi. Simple, flavorful, and exactly how I like to start a trip: with local dishes and no rush.
Monday: Kicking Off the Workation
Monday morning starts early — 9 AM in Amsterdam means 8 AM in Lisbon. While I join the team meeting, my son plans our day. It’s the first balancing act: keeping my professional rhythm steady while being fully present for him once I close the laptop.
We’ll take a city tour, visit the Benfica official store (his personal highlight), grab a bifana sandwich, and catch the train from Cais do Sodré for the amphibian bus tour — part road trip, part boat ride.
Dinner will be feijoada, rich and comforting — the perfect close to a work-plus-play day.
Tuesday: Sintra Magic and Mobile Work
We’re heading to Sintra and Quinta da Regaleira — pure magic with its palaces, gardens, and foggy fairytale charm. I’m already dreaming of polvo à lagareiro for lunch.
In the afternoon, I’ll work a couple of hours using my mobile connection, somewhere quiet, probably while my son rests or sketches. That’s my version of a flexible office — portable, reliable, and entirely mine.
I cancelled the Fado show I’d booked for the evening. My son wouldn’t enjoy it, and honestly, I’d rather keep the pace easy. Maybe we’ll try a marisqueira, or explore some Mozambican flavors — Lisbon always surprises with its mix of traditions.
Wednesday: Faith, Waves, and Work on the Move
A full-day trip to Fátima, Nazaré, and Óbidos awaits. I’ll catch up on work from the bus — tethered to my phone, laptop open between scenic stops. It’s not the classic office, but it keeps things flowing while still letting me soak in the view.
By the time we return, we’ll eat something light near the hotel and rest — balance also means knowing when to slow down.
Thursday: Wrap-Up and Takeoff
Thursday morning will be for a few last tasks, then a bit of shopping along Avenida da Liberdade before heading to the airport. Back to Belgium, with inboxes cleared, memories made, and probably a few pasteis de nata tucked away for later.
Reflections
This Lisbon week is my gentle reminder that work-life balance isn’t a perfect split — it’s a daily calibration. Some hours are for strategy calls, others for sea breezes or unexpected laughter.
A successful workation isn’t about doing it all; it’s about being present wherever you are — whether that’s a spreadsheet or a sunset.
💬 Would you call this “working on holiday” or “holidaying while working”? Tell me in the comments — and if you’ve been to Lisbon, what’s one dish or experience I shouldn’t miss next time?
💻 About the Workation Diva
I’m Caro, an early pioneer of remote work, studying IT in the ’90s when “the Internet” still made dial-up noises. I’ve been blending work and travel since before it was fashionable, from spa weekends during business trips to half-vacations at my family’s place in Buenos Aires. These days, I live the part-time laptop lifestyle — balancing motherhood, projects, and plane tickets, proving that freedom can come in Wi-Fi and family-size portions.
Workation Diva 