After a discrete joint.
I talk to many people about the drug laws here. One of the spoils in Lisbon for me was the constant stream of sunglasses sellers. When I mentioned that to a local resident he told me it was because so many tourists come here thinking drugs are legal – they are not.
As much as I could moan about how conservative and boring places like Setubal are, I am very grateful for how safe it feels. I have not had a single issue to deal with from Porto to here. Not a single word from police either.
I look around me, and notice I am actually the only person publicly drinking on the street, and discretely smoking on the street. I have no private space, and can't afford bars all the time, or simply want my own space to drink and smoke. Bars are very affordable here. I pay €1 for a bottle of luke warm beer in a supermarket, or pay just €1,50 for a chilled bottle in a bar with comfortable seating and WiFi. I feel conspicuous drinking and smoking on the street here despite the decriminalisation of drug laws. The definition isn't nearly as clear as you may think.
I haven't explored many suburbs at night yet. Just Porto.
In the city centres, and even the centres of small towns, there is something missing. There are no gangs of teenagers just hanging out. Not even outside McDonald's. The only teenagers to be seen are with family. With family on holiday I am assuming.
Why am I making this connection? I don't think teenage gangs are to blame for crime. Specifically drug related crime.
How has decriminalisation of drug laws helped in the huge decrease in crime in Portugal. Or, has it?
Some respect comes with age totally unjustifiably. Most has to be earned. I have had so many conversations with so many people from so many walks of life, but I have yet to get a teenage perspective.
What the fuck am I on about people of U75. Anyone?
I shouldn't be talking this shit out allowed should I?
I think it is time I left this town. Foot, or no foot.