In 2001, the Portuguese government decriminalized the personal use and possession of all drugs, including heroin and cocaine.

Though drug use remains illegal and anyone found in possession of drugs can have them confiscated and be sent before a drug commission – the country has chosen to take an alternative approach to that pursued by other jurisdictions.

Signs of this more liberal policy are definitely on display in the main square of the city center.

Up until now, I haven't been approached by people selling drugs in any other cities in Europe.

But in the space of 15 minutes wandering around the XXX in Lisbon, I'd already had 5 offers to buy dope and cocaine.