We finally arrived in Santiago. The last few days were very warm and sunny--beautiful but probably near 80 degrees so a little warm for the walk. The last time I wrote we were at the horribly crowded albergue. It was smelly and none of us had sleep so we left early in the morning when it was still dark. The next night we (Raul, Ina, Jennifer, Carlos, Catherine, Nicole) stayed at a more upscale private albergue but it was worth the price. We had a great night´s sleep and then left very early to make it to Santiago for the noon pilgrim´s mass. We walked the first two hours in the dark. I arrived in Santiago with Ina, Catherine, and Carlos. It was especially nice to be there with Ina as I had started out with her at the beginning. After the mass, we went to the pilgrim office to register and get our certificates. While there, Christian got wind that we had arrived and met us there. It was a big surprise as we were sure that he would have been on his way to Finisterre. He had arrived a couple of days before but waited for us to arrive. Then we all went to a great restaurant for lunch. Carlos announced that he would be leaving in an hour as his parents would be picking him up. This came from out of the blue and we were disappointed that he would be leaving so soon. Over the last day day or two it has been like old home week. Christian took us to find Dutch Kim and it was great to see her. She was leaving that night. Since then we have seen just about everyone. Toby arrived today. We have also seen the three Spanish men that we traveled with over the last few days, Luke, Nicole, German car driver, Felix, Hildegard, just a whole bunch of people. The only people left that I´d like to see are the Norwegians. We´ve had e-mail from Juan--he had to go back to Madrid a couple of weeks ago due to injury. Today was very relaxing--lots of hanging out at cafés, milling around, running errands, etc. The bus to Finisterre seems to be something of a scam so we are looking into renting a car and may drive there tomorrow. I frankly wouldn´t mind another day of lounging. We´ll see. A wee bit sad tonight as Christian, Jennifer, and Nicole leave tomorrow. I guess I´ll see them next year on the alleged Portugal walk.
5 comments:
Well Ladies, you did it! I am beyond proud and excited for you. Easing back into the busy life of Northern Virgina may be difficult...at least you can look forward to a comfortable bed, warm showers, and clean undies on a daily basis. We can't wait to see you at The Terrace...travel safe back to us. xxoo, KG
Hey Laura and Catherine,
I think Kathryn's right. It's probably going to be a bit of a shock coming back. I remember returning from a month of cycling cross country (many years ago!), and it was a difficult adjustment. If you need to reminisce about your travels, I think you'll find many willing ears here. We'll have to accompany your stories with wine and tapas, of course.
Cheers,
Josie
I'm in for portugal!! I'll start training for the walk right away. I'm not worried that I won't hear all about the trip as Peg and rog want to have you over for dinner sometime soon with pictures in tow. i wish you would continue the blog but can't wait to see you. Lets get together soon. Call me when you are rested.
Love,
Channie
Congratulations! "Wow," that's just about all she could say, "Wow!"
-to paraphrase Lilly in Lilly's Purple Plastic Purse. See you soon.
Enhorabuena!!!!! WOW!!!! I've enjoyed the blog immensely. Now, not to take anything away from the enormous feat of your 790+ km, but I am wondering how far this finisterre is from the city of Santiago. Is there a path? Does anyone walk it? Or do most people take a bus? It seems like it can't be that far after the miles you have behind you. In any case, I am so happy that you have some relaxing days before you have to travel back to the States. Take care. Cuidado con to bolso. Love, Lisa
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