caminando..caminando..caminando

The last couple of days have been a world-wind of planes, trains and walks. I landed in Madrid two days ago and took the long way to the north eastern town of Vitoria.

My train ride took a total of 5 hours. It was absolutely breathtaking. Living in the desert, my mind seemed to have forgotten all the different shades of green that exist. I couldn't stop staring out the window in wonder. Poppies fill many of the fields. The other thing that is blowing my mind is how far away I can see. There is nothing like sand to obscure your view.

I was surprised to discover that my Spanish is understandable in Spain and I've forgotten how much I fit in in Europe. I'm trying to dumb down my overt central american/mexican accent and adapt the funky Castalleno "s".

It sounds so sexy.

Vitoria was lovely, I had a nice long bath, bought a Spanish SIM card... (if you want to phone me, send me an email)

The next day was another trek of little put-put trains and some walking until I made it over the Pyrenees and into France. I travelled from 9am-4:30 pm.

My guide book didnt seem to have things spelled out so clearly but the Journey went something like this:

Vitoria- Irun- walk 500 m - Irun - Hendaye (France) - Hendaye - Bayonne - walk around and bought a charger for my cell phone- Bayonne - St Jean Pied de Port.

The Pilgrim hostel is full of people from many different Europeans and a few Americans. The cockle shell (the sign of St James) lines the streets and the locals here are very friendly and familiar with the pilgrims.

Some have travelled by bike. My current companions in town are cyclists from Belgium, a Spaniard beginning her walk and a French guy. The guy sitting next to me as I type this started in Belgium and has been walking for 3 months!!

Last night I awoke in the hostel at about 4 am to come to the realization that I was freezing. My body isn't use to the rapid change of temperature here.

I plan to stay in St Jean Pied de Port for one more night as tonight is the Noche de San Juan. Sounds of people practicing Basque music are beginning to eminate from houses here and there. The looming 776km that await me seem almost impossible particularly with the weight of my backpack.

I sent several items on to Santiago today to pick up at the end of the Journey... tonight is a party... i will begin my walk through the Pyrenes tomorrow at 7 am.