Years ago when I lived in Spain and made many weekend trips to Portugal, I used to think that the sky was always blue in Portugal. It seems to be true. The last two days have been gorgeous: sunny and about 75º. The sky is extremely blue, there are azaleas and other flowers everywhere. The orange trees have oranges just dropping off of them. This town, Guimaraes, is amazing. I have worked out the winding, cobbled streets and now feel quite at home here. I don't know how they are making a living here. My really good coffee (mostly milk) and big, fat, toast, came in at less than 2 bucks. My lunch today (soup, fresh grilled fish, potatoes, carrots, green beans, bread, 2-3 glasses of wine) was less than 7 dollars. This seems to be no more expensive than it was about 20 years ago.
I had a very full day as a tourist today. I visited the castle, a palace, several churches, two museums, a beautiful monestary, churches, parks and gardens. In the afternoon I walked to the top of the local mountain (hill?). My life of luxury in France (and slacking on the walking preparation at home beforehand) might not have me well prepared for this year´s walk. I was pretty weary today by the time I reached the top but the view of the town below made it worth it.
I´m off to have my p.m. coffee and big fat toast.
(sidenote to Dad): I went to the big church of St. Gualter today. Evidently in August they have big festivities for him--the festivales gualterinas. Perhaps you can attend.
I had a very full day as a tourist today. I visited the castle, a palace, several churches, two museums, a beautiful monestary, churches, parks and gardens. In the afternoon I walked to the top of the local mountain (hill?). My life of luxury in France (and slacking on the walking preparation at home beforehand) might not have me well prepared for this year´s walk. I was pretty weary today by the time I reached the top but the view of the town below made it worth it.
I´m off to have my p.m. coffee and big fat toast.
(sidenote to Dad): I went to the big church of St. Gualter today. Evidently in August they have big festivities for him--the festivales gualterinas. Perhaps you can attend.
No comments:
Post a Comment