Is pickpocketing as prevalent as I've read about (from many different sources)? I'm a fairly savvy traveler but am not interested in too many hassles. What are your experiences? I would love to enjoy Lisbon.
Also, have any of you taken the train from Lisbon to Salema? If so, how was the experience?
I'm really looking forward to visting Portugal. Our winter this year has been a killer (in Wisconsin) and am looking forward to wearing my sandles once again.
Lisbon is no worse than any other big city. Take the standard money belt precautions and you will be fine. Trains in Portugal are very comfortable, and even show movies!
We took a bus from Faro (near Salema) to Lisbon. It left in the early morning as I remember and it was a comfortable trip. We loved Salema and Lisbon is really beautiful as well. We felt safe (using all of the usual precautions) and traveled all over Lisbon using public transportation. I found a link with info about bus and train service--it might be a good starting point. Your trip sounds great!
Bus and Train Timetables