There Are Places I Remember

Barcelona is an amazing and vibrant city rich in history. It is proudly Catalan and not Spanish with its own language and heritage. There are only 1.4 million people who live in Barcelona and host 8 million visitors each year. Yesterday’s highlight had to be the tapas tour. My eight companions for the evening were diverse with interesting backgrounds and stories. Our host, recently graduated from university, was so much fun. It was decidedly un-touristy and the food rivaled the best restaurants in anywhere; three restaurants; 5 hours and I have no idea how many dishes and bottles of wine consumed. I will need the Camino to walk off Barcelona!

Enjoying the Fourth of July holiday and coming to the reality that the trip is less than a week away. There are still a few things to do but the backpack is packed and ready to go. There will be no break from the heat the first few days in Barcelona while I see the city and get adjusted to the time change and stumbling along with my Spanish.
I will arrive in Irun, the starting point for my Camino on the 15th. It will be good to move from planning to doing!

I will be leaving on my trip in less than three weeks now.  Everything is pretty well organized and, I think, ready to go.  I met today with a group of people who have recently walked the Camino or are, like me,  planning to in the near future.  It was good to hear their tips and see their enthusiasm.  It is customary for those who have walked to give a shell to those embarking on the journey.  The shell comes with a blessing and best wishes.  It was a nice experience.