To Caceres 22km Stage 4

September 15

We walked in a relatively easy terrain, up until we reached Caceres where it's old town is perched upon a hill. We were exhausted when we reached the top but we were greeted by the most beautiful medieval town, with its huge plaza below with many trendy bars and restaurants, and surrounded by the most beautiful churches and museums. The Plaza Mayor was busy with many tourists enjoying tapas and sangria. "How sweet it is!" (Jackie Gleason) We found our accommodations and enjoyed dinner in the Albergue courtyard.

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To Aldea de Cano 15km Stage 3

September 14

Today was a relatively short walk hence we slept in until 6:30 and enjoyed coffee and churos (the donut equivalent but long instead of round) at the local cafe. Many of our peregrino friends left much earlier and went further than us today, but we'll probably meet up with them in a few days in Caceres.

Today was even more pleasant because of the cool breeze and frequent rest stops along the way. However being Sunday there were no stores open, but thankfully the bars and cafes were open. They do a booming business on Sunday.

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To Alcuscar 19km Stage 2

September 13

We left our accommodations at 7am, the last of the peregrinos to leave. It was still dark and therefore went to the bar for coffee and breakfast. Hard to believe many people start walking so early in the dark for 1-2 hours to reduce sun exposure. Yes it's cooler but that is way too early for us and easier to miss waymarkers inthe dark.

The trek today was through the hills and it was interesting how, as the terrain changed so did the vegetation. The first half of the day was through orchids of acorn trees and the last part through orchids of fig trees, olive trees and vineyards. Of course the latter vegetation enjoying the hot climate we just entered.

The highlight of the day was our stay at Acogida Convento Esclavos de Maria y de Los Pobres Albergue. This old convent, besides offering accommodations, houses the mentally and physically ill. It was a humbling experience at the evening mass to have some of the patients and hospital staff also participating in the mass. This was followed by a special blessing by the priest to the peregrinos. Afterwards the peregrinos had a communal dinner of soup, salad, pork steaks and fruit. What a feast!

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To Aljucen 15 km Stage 1

September 12

It was a beautiful walk leaving Merida as we passed the aqueducts just as the sun was rising. It was an incredible sight! We eventually made our way to the reservoir with the dam built during the Roman era, and still functions today but as a beach resort rather than a water supply.

We made our way over the many hills and valleys passing orchids of acorn trees. It was a hot day and the first rest stop was 10km into our trek, but there were no bars. Eventually reaching our destination we enjoyed our cool shower and cold beer and wine from the local bar. There's nothing that beats a cold drink in the shade!

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Merida

September 10

The Roman ruins dominate the Merida's landscape with a long foot bridge spanning Rio Guadiana, the very impressive Teatro Romano, the Temple de Diana, aqueduct, dam and many other archeology sites. It is a very beautiful city with many cafes, restaurants and trendy shops, but the effects of the economic downturn is very obvious - restaurants competing for customers by offering many specials, and there are shops closed down and many for sale and rental signs. Too bad, as Merida has so much to offer!

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Madrid, Spain

September 8

Arrived in Madrid in the late afternoon feeling very tired after 12hours of travel with a 3.5 hour lay-over in London. The train and metro connections into central Madrid was relatively easy. The trains were crowded hence there many opportunities for would-be thieves. There are many warnings about pickpockets and sure enough one (ladrón) tried, but badly failed his attempt on Julie. She gave him a fierce tongue-lashing. It was in English, but even if he didn't understand the words, I'm sure he got the message clearly. However, this incident did not ruin our day. It was just part of our adventure.

I'm sure the would-be thief was a gypsy but there are many gypsies in Madrid that earn a more honest living. One morning there was a large group of gypsies in Puerta del Sol. I'm sure they were there to get their job assignments for the day, just as we would in a departmental meeting back home. They all then head off to their jobs. The younger girls with their beauty dance and charm the passer-byes for money. Older ladies, who have lost their beauty would beg on the street and on the church steps. The gypsies are not well respected, but those with talent will have a better lifestyle. Some telling fortunes with tables and crystal balls in the Park Retiro, or playing music in the park or busy plazas, and many with excellent musical skills.

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Camino 2014: Via de la Plata

Hard to believe that we will soon be starting our fifth trek since retiring in 2010.  I'm exited about this trek and can't wait to get started. Having done four other caminos we are less anxious about the unknown, and I've been studying Spanish for the past year so communicating with the locals will be easier. Again Julie will be celebrating her birthday in Spain, which is always special.

So, let's get started already!!