Thomas grows up in a conservative Midwest family and wonders about his sexuality. At nineteen years old, he is still a virgin and desires to find other men like himself. Tomas decides to spend the summer hitchhiking and camping in Europe. Along the way, he meets a variety of people who lead him to the conclusion that he is gay. When it comes time to return home, he has second thoughts and decides to accept the offer by an older Portuguese man to stay and live in Lisbon. His male mentor (Marco) and the housekeeper (Marta) are involved in the resistance movement to eliminate the Salazar regime and Tomas feels an obligation to participate. With Tomas' help, The Carnation Revolution is a one-day success that opens a new world for Tomas and the Portuguese people.