September 3 Viana

We had a late start and slept in until 7:30am. Most other peregrinos had left and the staff were starting the cleaning of rooms and getting ready for the next wave of walkers. It does seem like a wave, since we all come in about the same take, take our bunk, shower and wash clothes. There is a strong social aspect with El Camino, and in the evening some walkers get a little too comfortable – walking around in their underwear going from their dorm room to the bathroom. I guess that is an accepted way in Europe. The walk was great today. We are finally getting accustomed to our backpacks and the 21km was more comfortable. Close to Viana we met up with an entrepreneur selling cold drinks to hikers. We were running out of water and a cold coke sold 3x its value was worth every penny. Viana is a fantastic medieval village and our albergue was in an old monastery with dorm rooms of 12 with bunk beds 3-high. Thank goodness we got there early enough to avoid the top bunk. We watched three young men enjoying their dinner after they arrived. It is truly amazing how simple dinner of bread cheese, sausages and water can taste so good. This trip does put things in perspective -- that the simple things in life provide comfort to our body and soul. See Pictures>>