On his return to Spain after his first voyage to the New World, Columbus took a somewhat different route to utilize favorable winds. He made it to Lisbon in March 1493, a little ahead of Martin Alonzo Pinzon on the Pinta, and was interviewed by King John II. Columbus then went on to Palos and across Spain to Barcelona, where he was welcomed by Isabella and Ferdinand. Claiming to have reached islands just off the coast of Asia, Columbus brought with him artifacts, gold, and some natives.