2010 - FIP Lisbon: Day 5: Sun 29 Aug

The Opening Ceremony started at 2pm in the Centros de Congressos de Lisboa (the Lisbon Congress Centre). The bus left our hotel (where six of us were staying) at 12:35pm but it was supposed to leave at 12:40pm, lucky we were already waiting for the bus. After arriving at the venue, we gathered in a column of blob around the entrance mostly to scare others away – no, not really. We had to be visible, so that all other MEPS members knew where to meet. Soon, our small group of six had grown to 10, 13, 16, to the final turn-out of about 30 members, and some partners. The first round of entertainment was in the form of the traditional Portuguese Fado (singing). At the conclusion of the OC, we attended the Welcome Reception whilst manning the MEPS poster.

Susan, Jane, ?, Fran, Steve, Gen Chaulet, Helmut, Gerhard

Gen Chaulet, Helmut, Gerhard

John, Susan, Jane, ?

Ulf, Erik, John

Fado, traditional Portuguese singing

Arne & Gerhard

Cansel & Wendy

The MEPS Meet ‘n’ Greet initial phase was held in the pharmacy of the Hospital du Marinha (Navy Hospital), which was built in the 18th Century. This old pharmacy still contained all the old pill and liquid bottles, tablet making machines and many other pharmacy memorabilia. It has been beautifully maintained and was a good introduction into Portuguese Defence Pharmacy. From the old pharmacy it was a short ‘hike’ up a small hill to the Lisbon (Santa Clara) Officers Mess for the social part of the Meet ‘n’ Greet. Here we were treated to a spectacular view, together with GTs and a selection of Portuguese port, all of which were very tasty, and accompanied the finger food very well. A good night was had by all.