Tag Archives: Travel

Mad About Madison,Wisconsin!

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Once you learn a thing or two about Madison, you can relax and enjoy your time there:

  • Anywhere else in the world, a badger is a mammal that’s a member of the weasel family, but in Madison, the Wisconsin Badgers are the beloved University of Wisconsin–Madison football team. 
  • Yes, that’s a golden badger on the head of the statue of the woman that graces the top of the elegant Wisconsin Capitol Building. 
  • Should you accept a taste of a cheese curd, a favorite chewy snack, be prepared for the squeak it imparts when bitten into; a good sign that it’s fresh. 
  • Not to be confused with the cheese-shaped foam hat of the same name, a Cheesehead is also the name given to fans of the Green Bay Packers football team. 
  • Yes, that’s a giant hot dog car driving down the street! Oscar Meyer is headquartered in Madison and sometimes there are sightings of its famous Weinermobile.
  • How many cities can boast that they sit between two lakes? Lakes Monona and Mendota are like two beautiful sisters, fishing for compliments, as they try to outsparkle each other.

STAY             
As our Lyft stops in front of our destination, I immediately forget that the surrounding neighborhood is a bit old and made up of student housing- after all, over 50,000 students do call Madison their home! 

The Dylin is a modern, stylish “aparthotel” with 55 apartments – check out their other city locations at Locale. There is a general manager on site, but no front desk. Even though we’ve received the codes to the front door and to our apartment, we still feel welcomed as we enter the chic lobby and outdoor area.

A little bit apartment and a little bit boutique hotel, it is the best of both. The Tuft and Needle mattress and the Bokser bedding immediately elevate our apartment to swanky status. The washer – with available soap pods – and dryer are a nice touch. We swoon over the Fellow tea kettle and Haden toaster and coffeepot, which look like pieces of art.

PLAY
The Dylin is within walking distance to almost everything and we take advantage of the many free things to do: 

With its majestic facade and impressive rotunda, the Wisconsin State Capitol is worth a stop for a complimentary tour and the view from its observation deck. 

The University of Wisconsin–Madison is also a popular tourist attraction. Set on 930 acres of gardens and a nature preserve, the Historic Terrace at Memorial Union sits on Lake Mendota. You can relax in colorful, student-designed chairs while enjoying the view. Before you visit the Chazen Museum of Art – free and on the grounds, grab lunch from one of the many restaurants and ice cream from Babcock Hall Dairy – made on campus.

Stroll the State Street Pedestrian Mall and stop into the Madison Museum of Contemporary Art – free every day. 

Unfortunately, rain curtailed our free visits to the Henry Villas Zoo, the Dane County Farmers Market, the largest producer-only farmers market in the country, made famous on the 2024 season of Top Chef filmed in Wisconsin, and a chamber orchestra concert at Capitol Square.

HIGH LEVEL HAPPY HOUR
Yes, we are at it again, christening every city with our presence at one of their rooftop bars. Our choice, in Madison, is the AC Hotel. A warm breeze, a chilled glass of Chardonnay, and a feeling that you could reach out and touch the Capitol building; it doesn’t get any better than that. 

DINE LIKE A MADISONIAN
Enjoy a Lake View
You say “Monona” and I say “Mendota,” but either lake offers an enhanced dining experience:

It’s been a while since we’ve had French cuisine, so our mouths are watering as we head to Sardine. Our front table allows us a ringside view of Lake Monona as we settle in for a culinary feast of warm duck confit & frisée, steak frites, and seared salmon, accompanied by lentils, spinach and portobello mushrooms. 

Since 1948, the lovely Edgewater Hotel has managed to retain its elegance, having been named “Best of Madison” by Madison Magazine. We can also see why The Boat House Bar & Grill was also voted “Best restaurant with a lake view,” as we lunch on fish and chips on its dock, surrounded by blue skies and the sparkling Lake Mendota. The classy Statehouse restaurant awaits us for dinner. It’s restful evening lake view is the perfect setting for us to enjoy roast chicken with truffle mashed potatoes and salmon with a bourbon honey glaze. 

The Nostalgic Supper Club Experience
Born in the 1950s, supper clubs embraced Wisconsin and never let go. Known for their hand-muddled Brandy Old Fashioneds and a menu serving up traditional American fare – which includes their famous Friday fish fry – you can see why locals can’t get enough of their friendly social atmosphere. 

We don’t mind the 15-minute Lyft ride to Toby’s Supper Club; their 55-year-old reputation makes the trip worthwhile. Supper clubs are not known for their architectural artistry, so the old building and metal door come as no surprise. 

We take a deep breath, open the door, and are transported back in time. The bar is jam packed, and everyone is talking and laughing, including the bartenders, who don’t seem phased at all by the crowd. Oh, if those worn wooden floors could talk! The old dining room is a sea of red plastic tablecloths covering tables full of food and happy diners. We are welcomed and told how to proceed: 

  • Order a drink
  • Peruse the menu
  • Call over a server and order
  • When your dinner is ready, you will be seated. 

It doesn’t take long for us to strike up a conversation with our new standing-room-only friends, but our hunger reminds us that it’s time to order. We stop a server, who is cheery and surprisingly able to hear us over the roar of the crowd.  When she finally leads us to our table, we are struck to find the table already full, with a complimentary relish tray, rolls, butter and even cinnamon rolls – are they in case we’re still there for breakfast?! 

We order the wild caught walleye and can’t resist the pan-fried chicken, since according to the menu “If the Colonel’s chicken was this good, he would have been a General!” Included is soup or salad and a guarantee that we will not be hungry tomorrow. 

It’s been a pleasure getting to know you, Madison. We leave, reminded, once again, that every city has something to celebrate. 

Author’s Note:
If you enjoyed this post, I invite you to like it and share it. 
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Austin, Texas: From Staycation to Vacation!

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We miss you, Austin! Our two years living there gave us that dose of city living that we craved.  Don’t get me wrong; we enjoy where we live now, but we’ve decided every now and then, we need to take a staycation and visit you…unless, of course, we are having such fun that it turns into a vacation!

STAY

We believe that a hotel isn’t just where you sleep; it sets the tone for your entire trip. Based on location, its trendy vibe, and the fact that Cava (a sparkling Spanish wine, similar to champagne) has been served in the lobby from 3 p.m. – 10 p.m. during each of our visits, we’ve chosen the Canopy by Hilton Austin Downtown as our favorite hotel. 

Upscale, yet not excessively expensive (a recent article cited Austin as the third most expensive city in Texas, based on its lodging costs), the indoor-outdoor feel of the Canopy makes it feel more like a retreat.

FYI: We check a hotel’s website for their rates and compare them with Hotels.com. We’ll book at the less expensive price, but we prefer to use Hotels.com when possible, as they offer a loyalty rewards program called “OneKeyCash.” Shared by Hotels.com, Expedia, and Vrbo, it can be used as a form of cashback for future bookings. 

PLAY

Sure, there are the tried-and-true tourist spots, but these are just some of the ways we like to while away our time in Austin:

  • Walk all or some of the 10-mile path around Lady Bird Lake or paddle a rented kayak on the lake. 
  • Head to SOCO – South of Congress to shop and people-watch; sign up online, and Kendra Scott will help you celebrate your birthday month with 50% off one item. Or, take a photo at the famous “I Love You So Much” mural at Joe’s Coffee: 1300 South Congress.  
  • Visit the lovely Umlauf Sculpture Gardens and Museum  Check out their event schedule for information on Family Days and After Dark, which features live jazz and cocktails. 
  • Tucked away in the Hyde Park neighborhood, the Elisabet Ney Museum is currently closed for renovation until Summer 2026, but is worth keeping on your radar for a visit. Her home and museum, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, chronicle her interesting life and amazing work as a sculptor. 
  • Mozart’s Coffee Roasters has a spectacular view of Lake Austin, and features live music and art exhibits. 

HIGH LEVEL HAPPY HOUR

Do cocktails taste better when they are served at a rooftop bar? We think they do! I’m not talking about the Sixth Street, loud music, standing room only bars. I’m referring to an elegant venue with the added treat of a view. Here are our favorites:

  • Located on the fifth floor of the swanky Proper Hotel, La Piscina could very well transport you to a Mediterranean hideaway with its chic ambiance.
  • Who would have guessed that P6 was originally the parking garage for its hotel The Line! The space has been transformed into lovely sitting areas with views of Lady Bird Lake and the Austin skyline.

FYI: Both bars are also restaurants, so reservations for cocktails are a must. 

DINE

  • Lin Asian Bar & Dim Sum Restaurant has been a long-time favorite. Be sure to start with the soup dumplings (complete with a quick lesson as to how to enjoy them) and end with the hot sake for “dessert;” anything you choose in between will be great. 
  • As the next-door neighbor to the South Congress Hotel, Café No Se shares its trendy and downtown chic vibe. After recently enjoying an amazing kale salad and a salmon burger for lunch there, we’ll be back. 
    One of the first places we dined as new Austinites, Taverna, will always have a soft spot in our hearts. Brunch favorites are Avocado Toast and Eggs Benedict. For dinner, we love the sautéed mussels and dream of the Cacio e Pepe. It’s prepared tableside in a large cheese rind. Though it’s no longer on the menu, they will happily accommodate you.  
  • Did you know Walton’s Fancy and Staple is owned by actress Sandra Bullock? It’s conveniently located across the street from the Canopy Hotel and great for breakfast and lunch. My favorite is the spinach and arugula salad with candied walnuts, cheddar cheese, and apples.
  • We were delighted that the popular Chicago restaurant group, Lettuce Entertain You, added an Austin restaurant to their success stories. The restaurant aba in SOCO is a Mediterranean wonderland that artfully combines its indoor and outdoor spaces into the WOW factor. Choose any hummus or any kebab; actually, choose anything on the menu!

FYI: A reservation is a must for both lunch and dinner at most restaurants – Walton’s is the only place where you can walk in. Reserving using the Open Table app allows us to make changes and keep tabs on our booking, plus each reservation earns us points. On our last wedding anniversary, we were able to utilize $75 towards our dinner!

Author’s Note:
If you enjoyed this post, I invite you to like it and share it. 
Don’t forget to go to the Home Page to follow me and receive posts via email.

Image by Achim Thiemermann from Pixabay

Nov. 3 – 8: A Coruña, Ferrol, and Santiago 

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Nov. 3 – 4:  A Coruña

Rather than continue as pilgrims, we’ve decided to become tourists for the last part of the trip. That doesn’t preclude us from walking across town to the Santiago train station to catch our train to A Coruña. 

I’m not the best one to ask about scenic train rides. No sooner do I find my seat than, with heavy eyelids, I am lulled to sleep by the train’s soothing rocking. My usual “That was a quick trip” comment always makes Mr. Wiz laugh, but this time in less than one hour, we’ve arrived. 

As we walk to our hotel, I am reminded of how much I love Sundays in Spain. Families are out in masse, on their paseo – a leisurely stroll through city streets. The well-dressed, multi-generational groups stop along the way for a meal or a drink and some tapas. As they wait for the streetlight to change, an elderly man and his son clasp hands, as long as they can, before the son must let go and cross with his family. Three women of different generations walk, arm in arm, talking and laughing together. The lively chatter and the children’s giggles somehow brighten the already sun-drenched day.

The Hotel Galeria Coruña is in the center of the historic district, surrounded by shops and restaurants. Even though its medieval stone streets are busy, no traffic is allowed, and it gives the area a relaxed feel. The boutique hotel is modern and trendy, with its white décor, back-lit shelves, and bathroom fog mirrors in each room. 

On the Avenida de Marina, the long seafront promenade is lined with bars and restaurants, all with outdoor seating that offer magnificent views of the Atlantic Ocean. The series of large, glazed white apartment buildings, with their enclosed glass balconies, line the Avenida and add elegance to the “Glass City,” the name A Coruña is known by. 

We head out on the promenade to the Tower of Hercules, the oldest working lighthouse in the world, built in the late first century and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. We take our time in the lovely sculpture garden and enjoy a walk on the beach. 

Interspersed with a glass of wine and some people-watching on the promenade, we explored the 12th-century Santiago Church and visited the Picasso Route, viewing the places where Pablo Picasso spent time while living here. We strolled the Plaza de Maria Pita, which pays homage to the A Coruña Mayor and heroine who helped defend Spain against the English Armada in 1589 – first picture above.

Discovering something interesting around every nook and cranny gives us quite an appetite and we both stop short at the sight of a group, sitting outside and eating grilled beef served on a wooden platter. Usually, we are vegetarians – or should I say flexitarians, since we do occasionally eat meat. Today is one of those days we can’t help but venture in. 

It’s 3 p.m. and this will be our main meal of the day. Otherwise, we will need to wait until 8:30 p.m. The Padron peppers and the “Pulpo“(octopus) appetizers are delicious, but when it comes to deciphering the meat side of the menu, we are stymied by words that are not translatable. If we weren’t so hungry, this would be quite funny. We resort to the good old reliable strategy of pointing to what someone else is eating. We enjoy every morsel and toast to following our intuition, especially when it’s combined with the scent of grilled meat, and getting to know in A Coruña.

Nov. 5 – 6: Ferrol

It’s a short bus ride to Ferrol and we arrive in under an hour. As we walk into town and head to our hotel, we know now why Ferrol, is known in the Galician region as their “Black Sheep.” It is not an attractive city, but the more we get to know it, the more we find there is also some charm left over from its heyday. 

Originally a fishing village, their secure harbor, protected from the sea by rocky hills, was responsible for developing the city into a naval base, a shipbuilding center, and the Royal Navy Arsenal. At one time, the city prospered as Spain’s maritime capital, but as the Navy fleet was transferred elsewhere, the lower military presence led to a downturn in the population and the economy. This accounts for the remnants of its “Golden Age’ in the shopping district, where one out of 10 of the elegant high-end stores remain, secluded around those shops that are now for lease. 

Our hotel, the Parador de Ferrol stands out as a majestic example of a genteel time gone by. The stately Galician mansion, built in 1928, features a grand staircase, nautical antiques, and lovely guest rooms with views of the port. 

What is a Parador?
Paradors are luxury hotels owned and run by the Spanish government. Usually converted historic buildings, monasteries, and castles, they must meet strict criteria and maintain a high standard of quality. 

On this trip to Spain, I had noticed even more than past years, the decrepit state of the buildings in the small towns and wondered why the townspeople did not get together and work to do something to elevate their hometown. It wasn’t until I arrived in Ferrol that I received the answer I had been looking for. 

In chatting with the hotel front desk personnel, they mentioned that the large signs displayed throughout Ferrol’s historic district announce a complete renovation is underway, restoring the area to its original splendor. Unfortunately, due to mismanagement and delays with restoration paperwork approvals, the entire district remains in ruins. Since they are protected buildings, nothing can be touched without the proper state approvals.

With a heavy heart for the frustrated residents, we continue to seek out and find wonderful spots around town. The “Jardines de Herrera” is a lovely garden owned by the military. The Magdalena district, with its upscale homes, is the sight of two cathedrals and one special restaurant. 

As we stroll by the water, we snag the last outdoor table at Taberna del Puerto for a late lunch. Sliced Heirloom tomatoes with extra-virgin olive oil, grilled Padron peppers, pork served with a savory/sweet sauce accompanied with French fries was one of those meals that you later dream about! So much so that when the server offered dessert, we ordered more Heirloom tomatoes!

Nov. 7 – 8: Santiago

We are warmly welcomed back to the Hotel Rua Villar, and we thank them again for holding some of our belongings, so we could travel lighter. The lovely room they have reserved for us has a wood beamed ceiling, a bathtub, and a glass enclosed sitting area that overlooks the plaza. I can see myself enjoying some writing time there, but not for too long, since Santiago awaits us. 

We set out for a stroll and hear impromptu applause as we near the Cathedral Plaza. A young Korean pilgrim is on his knees proposing to his girlfriend, who has just accepted. What a lovely way to start our day!

We’ve never taken the time to stop at the Pilgrim House Welcome Center and decide to do so today. Opened in 2014, it provides support and resources to pilgrims having just completed the Camino. The space consists of a living room, kitchenette, quiet reflection room and a patio. 

They offer the following services (some with a small, suggested donation):
– free Wi-Fi
– computer access
– laundry service
– backpack storage
– boarding pass printing
– group or private Camino debriefing session

We didn’t plan on spending so much time there, but we strike up a conversation with the kind, soft-spoken manager and enjoy hearing about her life. After walking the Camino 17 years ago, she and her husband moved to Spain. Both had backgrounds in the nonprofit sector and were hired to develop the center, which took years of paperwork. 

Now with four children, they are planning to move back to the U.S. We were surprised to hear that Santiago has some of the worst weather in Spain, with rain most of the winter. We chatted about their current lifestyle, how the family will experience culture shock when they move to Maryland, and wished them all the best. 

After enjoying some Caldo Gallego, pork, and potatoes at a local’s restaurant, we decide our last evening calls for a nightcap at our favorite bar. Our walk is longer than we expected, as we travel the maze of Old Town streets, but they are filled with people eating, drinking, laughing, and talking as if it were a special celebration. This is Santiago every night!

We decline the free tapas we are offered by the bartender, so he brings us some corn nuts. The roasted snack has accompanied us throughout our walk, and we laugh to think they may, very well, also be the secret to a successful relationship. They are so incredibly crunchy that they drown out sound for the few seconds you are chewing. There are many situations when this comes in very handy! 

Where to next?

Oct. 23 – 26: Cacabelos to Triacastela

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Mr. Wiz  walking non-stop!

Oct. 23: Cacabelos – 18 miles

That Mr. Wiz is a powerhouse! I tease him and call him “the camel” because I must remind him to stop for water and to eat! He puts his head down and those long legs just don’t stop going up and down the hills!

I’m having trouble recalling what I had to eat on the menu del dia two days ago and he remembers every detail of every town we visited in 2016 and 2018: where we ate, stayed, and stopped for a drink- incredible!

Downtown Cacabelos

There’s a lot of road walking today; not my favorite, but at least there’s a barrier between us and the cars and trucks that all seem to be going 100 mph! It always makes us smile when a car or truck sees us and blows their horn.

Today’s highlight is a stop at the “Castillo de los Templarios” (Templar Castle).

The stately Templar Castle

Who were the Knights Templar?
The Knights Templar were a Catholic military order. Founded in 1119, they protected pilgrims on their journeys. In the 12th century, they took possession of the fortress to use as a castle.

When they started to receive too much recognition and wealth, King Phillip forced the Pope to dissolve the order. The knights were arrested and tortured and their assets were stolen. Today, the magnificent castle remains as a study center and a library.

Cruz de Farro is located at the highest point of the French route

Cruz de Farro is a welcome sight. The simple iron cross on the hill has become a symbol of the Camino. The tradition is to bring a stone from home and leave it by the cross. It can symbolize leaving your troubles behind or commemorating someone important to you. Seeing the number of pilgrims kneeling, weeping or sitting quietly, along with the hundreds of rocks, notes, and photos on the ground is truly humbling and very emotional.

We voted these the ugliest trees in Spain

Our room at Hostal Santa Maria is so small that it takes some creativity to plan where to place anything. The town is not an attractive one, but the weather is so lovely that everyone is happy to be outside.

We stop and chat with a cheerful group of pilgrims. One Australian gentleman has such a kind way about him that I find myself immediately drawn to him. Later, I was told he is a priest and began walking in Switzerland 82 days ago. Unfortunately, I never got the chance to ask him why he was taking this journey and if he was finding what he was searching for.

Oct. 24: Trabadelo – 12 miles

A peaceful morning view

The early morning mist makes it feel much colder than it is. We head right to a narrow, rocky path and the single-file order precludes conversation.

I am very excited to be heading to Casa Susi!

Something to think about as we enter Casa Susi

Once upon a time, there was a tenacious, young woman from Australia named Susi. With an independent, adventurous spirit, she backpacked the world until she found the Camino (or until the Camino found her). Drawn to its sense of community and spirituality, she began work as a “hospitelero” (volunteer) at Albergues and began to dream about the one she would someday create.

The shell of the old barn on the Camino path in Trabadelo spoke to her. The fact that it had no water or electricity didn’t stop her. She worked tirelessly to prepare it for the upcoming season. As pilgrims came, some sensed her radiant spirit and stayed a day or two to help her finish one of her many projects. In turn, she offered them a bed and a wonderful meal, with vegetables from her, now abundant, garden which overlooked the river.

He was her 30th guest. A handsome architect from Pamplona, Fermin was soft-spoken with a warm smile. He was immediately captivated by this cheery, petite, powerhouse of a woman with the long blonde braid coquettishly tied to one side. Fermin likes to say that one project led to another, and he never left. Last summer, they were married in the Casa Susi garden and then again in Australia.

Everything  is well planned and organized at Casa Susi

Fermin welcomed us warmly. We were instructed to leave our boots and poles in the outer room. He offered us some herbal tea as we sat around the large wooden table and received information about our stay.

Luckily, no one snored!

A quiet spot in the garden

A door opened to a room with 10 beds and two bathrooms with showers. We were given paper-like sheets to use on the mattress and pillow and planned to sleep inside the sleeping bag liners – or sleep sacks – we had packed. A communal dinner would be served at 7:30 p.m. and we would meet Susi then. Dinner was prepared in the kitchen in their private living quarters upstairs. The cost of the bed and meal was only 27e each! Breakfast was self-service for an extra fee. In the meantime, we were free to relax inside or in the garden.

As it neared dinner time, the hungry pilgrims from California, Canada, Pittsburg, Korea, and Australia were excited to dine and finally meet Susi. As the wine was poured, Susi and Fermin welcomed us, told us a little about themselves, and then asked us to introduce ourselves and share why we were on the Camino.

Pilgrims always have interesting stories, but the one that touched us all was the 22-year-old young woman who tearfully confided she had just graduated from an intensely difficult college program and was confused as to why she had even chosen that course of study. She had already been walking 66 days from France and was exhausted mentally and physically.

After some hugs, Fermin and Susi served the first course: homemade pasta with pesto made with wild garlic Susi had foraged in the hills. Next, came a lovely salad along with peppers stuffed with vegetables, garbanzos, Moroccan spices, and a spiced yogurt topping. Dessert was a homemade lemon custard topped with plums.

I make a toast to the five, strong woman, at the table that are doing the Camino solo, and the meal ended with a round of applause for Susi, Fermin, their garden, and the wonderful gourmet dinner.

As I lay in my bed, I wondered what it would be like to host dinner for 12 every night; the planning, preparing, making conversation, cleaning up, and then doing it all again and again! When Susi and Fermin said they would close November 1, I assumed that meant a long vacation. Their plan was a weeklong trip to Malaga and then to Australia to work, with Susi as a florist and Fermin in construction. I fell asleep with a newfound respect for all the Albergue owners who dedicated their lives to caring for the pilgrims.

Oct. 25: O Cebreiro – 15 miles

It’s always an easy start when you walk through towns. Just when we’re grateful for no rain, it starts raining lightly, which it will do on and off all day today. This is the province of Galicia and O Cebreiro is known to be cold and damp, It’s still one of my favorite towns. With its charming stone village, scenic hiking trails, and good food and wine, many Spaniards agree with me and enjoy heading here for the weekend.

The lovely Valcarce Valley

We’re in for one of the steepest climbs today, navigating mud, wet leaves, and chestnuts, but the views of the Valcarce Valley will make it all worthwhile. The woods are quiet and beautiful. Sometimes the branches meet in the middle and create arches for us to walk through.

With just a touch of the mist hanging in the air, it gives the views a mystical feel. We are grateful for the quiet when, suddenly, we hear talking and laughing, as a group of what seems like hundreds of high school students take over the path. They walk along with us (actually, much faster!) until they head to buses to return down.

The Iglesia de Santa Maria Real dates back to the ninth century. It is the oldest
church associated with pilgrims and is also the resting place of Fr. Don Elias Valiña  Sampedro, who was responsible for helping to restore the Camino and whose idea it was to mark the route with yellow arrows (Camino shells are also used today).

Once again, our hotel La Venta Celta is small and plain, but it’s warm and we’re happy to arrive…that is, until we notice the shower is missing a door! With a smile, the lovely young woman explains that a large guest fell into it yesterday and they don’t have another room available. Rather than get upset, we ask for some extra towels for the floor and make it work. We see so many pilgrims we know at dinner, we decide to sit in the middle of the room, so we can chat with them all.

Oct. 26: Triacastela – 15 miles

Cold, but happy!

It’s raw out this morning! I open the door to check the weather and notice several pilgrims heading out in the dark with headlamps on. We prefer to have breakfast and wait for daylight.

Cows have the right of way in Spain

The rollercoaster hills are gravel today, which makes them a bit easier, but, not by much. I’m always surprised when we walk right through someone’s farm. Today, the señora seems nonplussed as she walks through the groups of pilgrims and gets her cows in line to head for the field. Meanwhile, we hustle to get ahead of them before they take over the road.

The chestnut tree is so ugly that it’s beautiful

We stop for a bowl of delicious lentil soup for lunch and everyone we know seems to have the same idea. Today is a long day, but for a few minutes, we are entertained by the 800-year-old chestnut tree that we pass. Gnarled and ashen gray, it has an artistic look about it. Every November, a festival is held in Galicia, where chestnuts are collected and celebrated. The fruit of the chestnut is enjoyed by both people and cattle.

Pension Albergue Lemos is a nice surprise. It’s the first stop in town, the room is modern with plenty of room and a hot shower. As a bonus, there is a washer and dryer available to use. With a big smile, the woman at reception surprises us by insisting she will do our laundry for us.

Oct. 19 – 22: Villar de Mazarife to Molinaseca

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Welcome to Viilar de Mazarife!

Oct. 19: Villar de Mazarife – 14 miles 

It’s a cold start to the day, but the consensus is, it’s better than hot and sunny. We walk through an industrial district, scrubland and surprise- lots of ups and downs!

In the distance, we hear a lilting Irish voice. We’ve greeted this jolly soul daily, but today he catches up to us and joins us for some café con leche/té to warm up. Never married and living with his mother, he decided to sell his dairy farm, retire at 58, and see the world.

On his first Camino, he met a family traveling with their daughter via wheelchair. The daughter told him she had Multiple Sclerosis (MS), the brilliant mind of a 28-year-old, a great career, but the body of a 98-year old. When she added she was not going to let that stop her from her goals and dreams, he immediately joined her support team. He was proud that his practical farm sense came in handy, when he suggested they put a hot water bottle on her lap to keep her warm.

Our Irish friend snapped this photo of us

He spoke of the kindness of other pilgrims, taking turns pushing the wheelchair and sometimes even carrying it. He reluctantly said goodbye and headed home. Weeks later, he received a text, asking him if he’d like to meet them in Sarria and finish out the Camino. Two days later, he was on a plane back to Spain (you can do that when you live in Ireland) He said that experience changed his life and now, he can’t get enough of the Camino.

Bucolic setting on the way, but could not seem to translate the sign!

The Tio Pepe Hostal looks just like we left it in 2016. Once again, we have a first-floor room. It’s plain and clean, the shower’s great, but there’s no closet!  And, once again, Mr. Wiz takes a walk to check out the town and returns in five minutes; still not too many sights!

It’s cool and damp, so rather than sitting in the garden patio, pilgrims are all huddled around the bar getting to know each other. A pilgrim from Wyoming shares his free form style of never making any plans and going where the wind takes him.

Between travel cost and time (a 20 hour flight to Europe), an Australian couple tells us of how they planned to get their monies worth by first sailing the Greek Islands (his dream) and now are on the Camino (her choice). At dinner, we find out we have much in common: our sons are the same age, have the same name, are the same size (big!) and both played rugby.

The señora at Tio Pepe makes us a sandwich for lunch and insists it’s “gratis” (free). There are no condiments on a Spanish sandwich; just crusty bread, cheese and jamón.

Jamön shopping!

What is jamón?
Jamón is a salt cured meat, made from the hind leg of a pig and is similar to prosciutto, but tastier. On holidays, Spanish families have their jamón proudly displayed in a special stand that clamps the ham in place and makes it accessible and easy to carve. The most expensive jamón comes from a special breed of black pigs who are only fed acorns and can cost.as much as $775 for 13 pounds.

A big group of pilgrims leave together this morning. Some are talking and laughing, some are singing and some hold back, in order to start the day quietly. 

We notice the pilgrim from Colorado, who we started out with, is becoming more talkative, as each day passes. He shares that he works alone as a grounds keeper, hasn’t been to Europe in 25 years, and opens up about his solitary liife.

It’s so unusual to see a child on the Camino that we can’t help but congratulate the 14-year old boy that’s walking with his parents. This sweet family from New Zealand also seem to be coming out of their shells.

And we thought we had a nice flat day ahead of us!

Little do we know that the flat path will soon give way to a series of never ending inclines and descents, the loose rock making us pay attention to every step. Is that a mirage?! In the middle of nowhere, a woman has set up chairs and a display of fruits, snacks, and drinks, only asking for a donation in return. Sharing a Coke and the reprieve of a walk through a town finally gets us to our destination.

Oct. 20: Astorga- 20 miles

Astorga welcomed us to their plaza with sunny weather

A lovely quiet meal at El Pasaje

Astorga is a lively city that packs shops, bars, restaurants, and historical buildings all within its medieval walls. The Imprenta Musical Alojamiento has a great check-in system, explained via cell phone in your choice of languages and the room is nice. We’re too tired and hungry to take the time to lounge on our floor’s outdoor sitting area, so we hurry and shower and head to the plaza. We find a restaurant on the second floor, so we can see the merrymaking going on, on the plaza, but cannot hear it.

Oct. 21: Rabanal del Camino- 15 miles
We’re heading up to the mountains and the area known for its unpredictable weather. It’s a long day and pilgrims share an occasional “Hola” (Hi!) and keep their focus on the trail. As we enter the town of El Gonzo, I remember how Camino author, Brierley, rightly describes it as “a hauntingly crumbling village.” It’s only saving grace is the famous cowboy bar, known for not allowing any photos (though no one knows why).

Rabanal del Camino continues its centuries old tradition of caring for pilgrims before they take the steep path up Monte Irago. An order of Bavarian monks have taken up residence in the restored church and the sound of Gregorian chants continues. We stop in at the church and are surprised to find a Korean woman standing alone near the altar, playing her flute. The sound bouncing off the centuries old walls is mesmerizing. We don’t want to interrupt her, so we get her attention and hold our hand to our hearts and quietly leave.

La Posada de Gaspar hasn’t changed a bit

While the town is nothing to write home about, we remember staying at the Posada de Gaspar in 2016, with its wooden beams and stone walls. Once again, we shower and scurry to, hopefully, find a restaurant open before 8 p.m.; not easy in Spain! 

What is a Spaniards’ dining schedule? 
– Breakfast: café con leche/té and a sweet roll or “tostada” (crusty bread) with either butter/jam, tomato, or jamón
– Late morning: another café/té and maybe a sweet roll?
– Lunch: large meal, usually in courses with wine/beer
– Early evening: café/té/wine/beer and some sweets or tapas
– Dinner: restaurants open again at 8-8:30 p.m. 

We try to start the day with some protein and seek out a restaurant that serves eggs and ham. We usually don’t eat much bread, but sometimes when that’s what all you’re served, you eat it! For lunch, we enjoy our favorite: a big bowl of “Caldo Gallego.”

What is a “Caldo Gallego”?
“Caldo Gallego” or Galician broth is a soup made with white beans, turnip greens and potatoes. The broth is flavored either with a type of salt pork called unto, “chorizo” (Spanish sausage), or smoked ham. 

If we happen to arrive in a town early enough, we take advantage of the late lunch, the three course pilgrim’s meal. Usually that doesn’t happen, so we try to find someplace that opens before 8 p.m., which is starting to get close to our bed time! 

Oh, and one more thing about food: it’s amazing that the price listed is the price you pay- no tax and no tip! Servers are paid a higher wage and no tips are expected.

Oct. 22- Molinaseca- 18 miles
Today we head up to the highest point of our journey, remembering to be cautious on the descents as well. It’s a grueling day, but the views are spectacular.

So peaceful in the mountains

We pass the abandoned town of Manjarin, which actually now has a population of one! Tomás, a Spaniard with a devotion to pilgrims, has provided 36 mattresses, an outside toilet, some hot water, and a simple meal for a donation. 

The medieval bridge

A medieval bridge leads you into the town of Molinaseca, once the home of the Queen of Castilla and León. I sit in a bench and watch a woman walk down the middle of the street in this charming stone village. She’s carrying a bouquet of just picked flowers and by the way she’s dressed, it could be any year back in time. Just then, a car horn honks and I’m brought back to reality.

The hills embrace the town of Molinaseca

Just as lovely as it was in 2018, we vote the Hotel el Palacio one of the best hotels on the Camino, with its stone exterior, glass enclosed balcony, wooden floors, shutters and built in wardrobe.

There seems to be only two restaurants in town and we are lucky to get a table at one. A group of ten pilgrims asks if we could move our table next to their two tables, so they can all sit together and we enjoy visiting with them while we have our dessert.

Oct. 14 – 18 : Moratinos to León

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Seems like we’ll  never arrive in Moratinos!

Oct. 14: Moratinos- 20 miles
It’s a quiet morning. As pilgrims head out, many are starting their day in thought. It’s another cool day and besides focusing on the rocky, dirt path, there’s not much scenery to embrace; just miles of farmland. I become fascinated with the ant hills along the way. Some almost look like castles and each one has a hole in the center. I wonder what a mini camera would show?
This helps me pass the time and also clean out the cobwebs in the corners of my brain at the same time!

We’re startled to see a food truck ahead of us- in the middle of nowhere! Our breakfast was light, so we stop and have a “tostado con tomato,” a hunk of crunchy bread, but this time instead of chopped tomato, the bread is sprinkled with olive oil and loaded with slices of fresh tomato- delicious! We compliment the young entrepreneurial couple and they tell us they do quite well, stationing themselves along the Camino, and that they also live in the back of their camper.

With a devotion to pilgrim hospitality, Italians Bruno and Ana built Albergue San Bruno. It’s a large house, unconventional in design, with a couple of levels that house both dorms with beds and private rooms. With various doors and halls, I can only figure out how to get to our room and back downstairs. We hurry and shower, so we can relax out in their garden.

All the hungry pilgrims are hovering around the door, waiting for the communal dinner to start at 7 p.m. We share a table with two sisters from the Netherlands, a man from France and a couple from Kansas. Bruno and Ana don chef’s hats and formally welcome us all. They tell us they will close for the season November 1 and return to Italy, but not to rest, to work! Over wine, salad, pasta carbonara and cake, we are entertained by the Frenchman, who tells us after his first Camino, he quit his corporate job two weeks after he arrived home and changed his career path.

Oct. 15: El Burgo Ranero – 18 miles
It’s not raining yet, but we can feel it coming. The fact that we’re heading to a new Albergue for lunch takes our minds off walking the “Soulless Senda” for awhile. 

The sun disappears quickly, the wind picks up, the sky darkens and and we stop and jump into our raincoats, but the rain only lasts for a few minutes. We’ve been through this before with the weather teasing us, so we decide to just leave our raincoats on.

Tonight we’re staying in a gas station! I know what you’re thinking, but the Hotel Castillo de Burgo is actually behind the gas station. We are warmly greeted and the room is quite nice, modern and clean. The restaurant is open all evening, the dining room has white tablecloths, and the staff seems happy to be working there. What more could you ask for?!

Downtown Mansilla

 

A surprise around every corner in Mansillas

Oct. 16 – Mansilla de los Mulas – 13 miles
There’s not much in the way of scenery today, so it’s a jgood time to reflect. In his Camino guidebook, Brierley notes “Classified as the longest extant stretch of Roman road left in Spain today, we follow in the footsteps of Emperor Augustus himself.” Out of the silence, the sound of our shoes crushing the gravel and the click of our hiking poles, as they tap the ground, creates an almost Zen-like rhythm that carrys us the rest of the way.

Our room at Pensión de Blanca (plain and clean) has three beds, so we have plenty of room to spread out. The owner pulls out a map and with a magic marker, gives us directions to everything in town, but tonight we already know where we’re dining. 

It’s not very often that Brierley gives a restaurant review, so when he recommends La Curiosa, we head there early and have a glass of wine to secure a spot. The first floor is almost museum-like, with collections of everything from old typewriters, books, tin cans and advertisements arranged just so on shelves. Upstairs, we are pleasantly surprised by the large windows and white tablecloths. We chat with women from Madrid, Chicago, and Arizona, all walking alone, and when the hosts asks if we would like to sit together, we all say “ Why not?”

While enjoying the delicious smoked trout salad, veal with blue cheese and local goat cheese drizzled with local honey, we are on edge, listening to the Chicago woman’s story of how she was scammed by a white collar squatter. Since the squatter was already living in the same New York City building, our friend assumed the usual background checks, etc. were unnecessary. Two years later, with legal assistance, she was finally able to get her tenant evicted, but had only collected $2500 from her- one months rent!

So happy to be in León!


The cathedral sparkles at night

 

Our favorite white wine is the Galician Albariño

Oct. 17 & 18: León – 13 miles
We’re happy it’s cool and not raining. We’re so anxious to get to León, one of our favorite cities, we don’t even mind that we’re walking parallel to the busy highway most of the day.

León has been a pilgrim stop since the 10th century. Today, with a population of almost 450,000, the bustling city has a vibrant, joyful feel. I’m not sure when people go to work or children go to school, because it seems that the revelry continues all day and all night in the Plaza Mayor and down every narrow side street in the walled city. It’s the perfect place for a rest day.

Though we don’t seem to have the constitution of the locals, who don’t mind sitting outside in cold weather, we very quickly realize the custom of ordering one drink, which is served with a complimentary tapas, and then moving on another bar until you’ve had your dinner.

We are served a small plate full of warm, just fried calamari – delicious! Across the bar, I notice a couple chatting. As the man, picks up the calamari, it seems to be a long, never ending piece. I make eye contact with the woman and we laugh, she making the gesture of wrapping it around her neck and me, holding my hands up, like a lasso. It’s one of those quick lovely moments. All this for 6e for two glasses of wine and tapas!

View from our room’s patio

Called “ the house of light” because of its famed stained glass windows, the Santa María de León Cathedral is now a UNESCO World Heritage sight. Our hotel, Hostal Albany Ancha, is in a great location, not too far from the church. The room has a brick wall, interesting metal light fixtures, a glass enclosed patio, but no closet! In Spain, you learn quickly- “Es lo que es” (it is what it is)!

Oct. 8 – 13: Burgos to Carrión de los Condes

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Our favorite building in Burgos

Please note:
– e = euro. The dollar and the euro are currently almost equal in value.
– Mr. Wiz = my husband, Michael, who is well versed on almost every subject and seems to know the answer to almost every question.

The French Route
Oct. 8: Madrid to Burgos
The Renfe high speed train station and plaza are jam packed. In typical Spanish fashion, people are talking, laughing, drinking, and eating. After our long travels, we opt for a quiet dinner at the nearby Charmartín Hotel dining room, We enjoy two glasses of wine each, along with a delicious three course dinner for 24 euros each. In Texas, $24 would barely cover two glasses of wine.

The entry to Hotel Rice Palacio Balsones

Hotel Rice Palacio de los Blasones, located in Old Town Burgos, a perfect location, is charming. Our room’s beamed ceilings, stone wall, and small balcony balance well with the contemporary furnishings.

Oct. 9: Burgos
Burgos still exhibits signs of its medieval splendor. The esplanade with its topiaries and sculptures, is the place where families and friends still dress up, meet (originally in horse and carriages, now strolling), and stop for a drink or a cafe con leche (espresso and steamed milk).

The capital of Leon and Castile for five centuries, its 12 entry gates and winding cobblestone streets give the city old world charm, but it’s the cathedral that is its highlight.

Cathedral de Santa Maria de Burgos

Construction on the Catedral de Santa Maria de Burgos began in 1221 and ended in 1567, bringing together famous architects and artists of the day to perfect the Gothic style of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

What is a UNESCO World Heritage site?
In 1972, the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) adopted a treaty for “the identification, protection, and preservation of natural heritage around the world.” This agreement is unique in that 195 countries have pledged to secure the world’s most significant natural and cultural heritage from threats such as natural disasters, mass tourism, wars, and construction.

Rodrigo Diaz de Vivar, known as El Cid, is buried in the cathedral. The 11th century nobleman and military leader was born near Burgos and is Spain’s most celebrated national folk hero.

We arrive on the tail end of a hurricane. We haven’t started walking yet, so the heavy winds and occasional drizzle doesn’t affect us, but we later hear stories of some near accidents from walking and cycling pilgrims who were unaware of the storm’s magnitude.

Sunflowers and “suede” landscape

Oct. 10: Hornillos del Camino- 12 miles
“Dale!” (Let’s do it!) It’s cloudy and cool; perfect for walking. The sunflower fields go on forever, with the sunflowers proudly standing straight up, not realizing that their golden flowers have given way to dead, black ones. The fields are a patchwork of fall colors, all mowed down for the season into what looks like suede. 

My necklace for the rest of the trip

We stop at a church to get a “sello,” a stamp on our pilgrim passport, which will be a lovely souvenir of places visited. The long line of pilgrims doesn’t deter the enthusiasm of the two nuns greeting each of us. When it’s my turn, the nun not only presents me with a medal to wear, she also blesses me and clasps my hand. I feel overwhelmed with emotion and vow to wear the necklace every day.

Flowers cheer up the building

Hornillos del Camino is a dilapidated town. With a population of 70, the decrepit buildings are a hodgepodge of different building materials. As with all of these old towns, they were once bustling commerce centers along the Camino and seem to come alive again with the arrival of pilgrims. They proudly continue their tradition of serving pilgrims and are grateful for the economy they bring.

La Casa del Abuelo is plain and old, but it’s clean and welcoming. Their sheets billow in the wind on the clothesline, interspersed with pilgrims’ clothes. The courtyard, with its unmatched tables and chairs, takes on an upbeat vibe, as pilgrims talk and laugh. A pilgrim from Idaho, with seven children and 14 grandchildren, regales us with his adventures of shooting feral hogs in Texas for $50 each and being welcomed into a motorcycle gang he had no interest in joining.

The sign on the bar says it’s closed for an hour and I assume the señora/owner is taking a rest. I happen to glance through the window and watch her lovingly feeding her mother and imagine how very full her days must be. When we leave, I tell her how special she is to care for family and for us and we hug.

A yellow arrow points the way to Castrojerez

Oct. 11: Castrojerez- 13 miles
We’ve just enjoyed our first, second breakfast; a Camino tradition. It’s a cool, quiet morning and the rocky trail keeps us focused on our footsteps. We stop at the Ruinas del Convento de San Antón, a monastery from the 14th century, which devoted itself to caring for pilgrims.

Castrojerez’s Main Street

With a population of 500, this sleepy town mirrors Hornillos. There’s not much to discover on our walk around town and we joke with a couple from Northern Ireland, asking each other if there’s something we’ve missed. The senior couple both live on the Irish Sea ( she swims in the see each morning!) and they met by chance on the beach only a year ago. We all agree, if we lived closer, we would be fast friends.

El Manzano, our alburgue, is plain and clean. We are glad for the savvy companies that deliver ready made pizzas, pastas, and paellas to these establishments, leaving their customers with just the task of heating them up and serving them hot and fresh to us. Our dinner entertainment is hearing the story of a family cycling the Camino with a 10 year old ( who is also biking) and his mother pulling an infant carrier. When they finish the Camino, they plan to camp in Morocco for six months.

The church in Castrojerez sparkled as we left in the early morning

All the way up, then all the way down!

Oct. 12: Fromista- 16 miles
We immediately start the day with a strenuous long, steep climb and an even steeper descent. Both seem never ending, but we are entertained by stories from couples that moved from St. Louis to the Virgin Islands and from Washington D.C to Sitka, Alaska. We make it a point to stop every two hours, take off our packs and hydrate, to help us keep going.

With a declining population of 840, Fromista also mirrors Hornillos, except for its Inglesia de San Martín, which is said to be the finest example of Romanesque architecture in Spain!

Spanish “bubblegum” body wash and shampoo!


Ready for a shower, we can’t seem to find any soap in our room at the Hotel Rural San Pedro, another plain and clean establishment. It seems the soap dispenser is in the shower and it makes us laugh. At home, we are so fussy about what shampoo and soap we use, but here the neon hot pink soap is just fine with us.

It’s a holiday, there are limited restaurant choices and pilgrims are hungry. Many of us line up outside a place that opens at 6 p.m. (and not the usual 8 p.m.), and are disappointed to find out a group of Korean travelers have reserved the entire restaurant. Thank goodness for the small bar that serves that same prepared food we enjoyed the day before.

San Zoilo: view from our room


San Zoila cloisters

Oct. 13: Carrión de los Condes- 12 miles
Famous Camino guidebook author, John Brierley, calls this part of the walk the “soulless senda” or path. Whether it’s the two, narrow, side by side paths that run alongside nondescript fields or the highway, this becomes the perfect time for reflection and introspection.

This time, we found the staff aloof and preoccupied and later were disappointed to find out other pilgrims staying there were never invited to visit their lovely church, museum, and cloisters, nor were they told about the discounted dinner menu for guests of the hotel, which we asked about and did receive.

Mr. Wiz has taken it upon himself to be in charge of doing our laundry. The laundromat is busy and chaotic, with pilgrims from all parts of the world waiting their turn. We laugh with a woman from Canada who’s next and says she’s not sure if she should place her laundry bag in front of the machine or just sit in front of it. Mr. Wiz explains the process to anyone that looks confused and I ask him if he’s running for mayor or just wants a job running the place.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Mud, Sweat, and Tears: Why the Camino Keeps Luring Us Back

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When family and friends heard we were heading back to the Camino, their first question was “Why?!” They wondered what it was about walking miles, on all kinds of terrain, in all types of weather, and for days on end that made it alluring.

The good terrain

The not-so-good terrain

What is the Camino?

In the ninth century, a local bishop ordered a church to be built to house the remains of St. James, when they were discovered in the northwestern Spanish town of Galicia. Over time, the church grew into the grand cathedral of today, and the city became known as Santiago de Compostela – “St. James under a field of stars.”

Throughout the Middle Ages, people started their pilgrimages from their homes, which created the many routes still used today. Yellow arrows mark the routes to help pilgrims navigate. Along the way, churches, restaurants, and places to stay, stamp a pilgrim’s passport to prove they have walked the minimum 100 kilometers/62 miles required to receive the coveted certificate, or “Compostela,” from the pilgrim office in Santiago.

There are many reasons why people choose to walk the Camino. It evokes a physical, mental, spiritual, and mystical experience unlike any other.

You never know where you’ll find a yellow arrow

It’s Your Camino

Though walking is the most popular way to travel the Camino, some ride a bicycle or travel on horseback. You can travel as much or as little as you would like each day. If you tire, buses and taxis are available, and there are companies offering daily backpack transport.

You can choose to stay in a “donativo” – a mat on a church floor for a donation, a five-star hotel, and anywhere in between, such as an “albergue” – a pilgrim hostel or a “casa rural” – a guesthouse. You can make a reservation ahead of time or see where the wind takes you when you arrive in a town. To keep you energized, the three-course pilgrim meals are delicious and offered at a bargain.

Hotel Antsotegi in Etxebarria was an old iron mill turned hotel

The Olé of Spain

There’s an exuberance and an elegance to life in the Spanish cities. Working to live, rather than living to work, allows time for family and friends. Music and culture are relished, every meal is savored, and life is lived at a slower pace.

Spaniards still enjoy the tradition of the paseo. They dress up for their stroll through a town’s main street or plaza to greet family and friends. No doubt there will be stops along the way for a café con leche y dulce – espresso coffee with hot milk and a sweet – or vino y tapas – wine and appetizers.

The small towns have a charm of their own. As if traveling back in time, a car driving through the street is almost startling. At times, you may be walking through a herd of sheep or visiting a small church, and the simplicity of the moment leads you to ponder your own life.

Estella, Spain was founded in 1090

Pilgrim Power

“Buen Camino!” Each day, pilgrims wish each other a good walk as they pass each other by.

We are all heading to the same place – the Cathedral in Santiago de Compostela – which creates instant camaraderie. There seems to be no interest in who you are at home. Here, everyone is equal.

Encountering pilgrims from all over the world, you begin to realize there are very few differences between you. Very quickly, they are no longer strangers. Your interaction might be days/weeks together or just a few words in passing. Pilgrim families are created, and members may keep in touch for a lifetime. Sometimes just a quick exchange can become crucial to helping you think through an issue in your life.

You feel a positive energy around you each day. The genuine hospitality encountered by people from all walks of life throughout Spain seems to rub off on the pilgrims, who, in turn, are there for their fellow travelers. Whether it’s with a hug, a band-aid, directions, or just a listening ear, there’s a loving spirit that makes you wonder why people aren’t always like this.

Me, Myself and I

You feel an ongoing gratitude for the simplicity of each day, its daily rhythm, and the chance to reboot, as you discover the Spanish culture in slow motion. It’s easier to listen to yourself when it’s quiet and the peaceful solitude of walking alone is a nice balance.

The freedom from everyday obligations and the luxury of being unplugged from the stimuli of our daily lives gives you more time to focus on the world around you. Traveling with only the belongings that fit in your backpack makes you feel lighter. You sometimes feel as if you were turned inside out, with your senses heightened and your mind clear and open.

The mud and sweat are understandable parts of the walk. As your journey ends and you enter the plaza of the Cathedral in Santiago de Compostela, you wonder if your tears are because you conquered the goals of this demanding trip or because your journey has come to an end.

This sign shows the distance from Georgetown, Texas to Santiago de Compostela, Spain

“Live for the moments you can’t put into words.”
“The end is just the beginning”
Authors Unknown

For more information on the Camino:
Watch the movie that resurrected the Camino in the United States in 2010. “The Way” starred Martin Sheen and was written, directed, and produced by his son, Emilio Estevez.

Listen to Dan Mullins’ podcast “My Camino the Podcast” which showcases Camino stories from pilgrims from over the world.

Go to the American Pilgrims on the Camino website which shares information, supports American pilgrims, and subsidizes Camino-related projects with grant money from its dues.

Author’s Note:
IIf you enjoyed this post, please scroll down, like it, and feel free to share it!

Camp Lucy: Luxury + Nature

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There are some occasions when dining out doesn’t seem like enough. Our 40th wedding anniversary celebration was one of those times and we decided it was the perfect opportunity for a getaway.

Dripping Springs prides itself on offering wedding venues of all kinds

Wanting to try someplace new, after much research, I came upon a resort called Camp Lucy. It is fitting it should be in Dripping Springs, Texas, designated the Wedding Capital of Texas by the Texas House of Representatives in 2015. Located in the Texas Hill Country, known for its picturesque landscapes, the town boasts 35 wedding venues.

Camp Lucy History
Whit Hanks promised himself he would keep the 282 acres he had inherited, away from the hands of developers. With lovely memories of times spent there during the summers, the original home still stood on the grounds.

A former antique dealer turned real estate developer, Whit was on an antique excursion in Vietnam when he came upon the frames of a church and a town hall. Struck by their beauty, intricacy, and workmanship, he purchased them on a whim. Taken apart carefully, each piece was coded and wrapped individually before being shipped.

Not sure what their final purpose would be, he first had the church reconstructed on the property and named it Ian’s Chapel, after his son who had died. Back in 2010, when Whit hosted the first wedding at Ian’s Chapel, there were only three wedding venues in Dripping Springs. Whit jokingly says Kim, a local event planner, started bringing him so much business that it was in his best interest to marry her.

His mother, Lucy, was the inspiration for the resort’s name. With combined creative vision and attention to every detail, Whit and Kim added a pool and lodging. The town building took three months to rebuild into the restaurant, Tillie’s, named after Whit’s grandmother, Attila Hancock. Attila was a prominent Austinite, whose husband, Lewis, served as mayor from 1895 to 1897. Attila and Lewis founded the Austin Country Club, whose golf course is the oldest continuously operated golf course in Texas.

Tillie’s
Driving up the long driveway, we were welcomed by the stone pillars and the Camp Lucy sign. The check-in area held the gift shop and the entrance to Tillie’s. The 400-year-old turquoise doors from India were slightly open, as a tease of what was to come. Pushing open the heavy doors, we were awestruck by the sheer beauty and unexpected uniqueness of the space.

The intricately carved wood frame encircled the space. The French statues of saints are set in individual alcoves from Whit’s private collection. The complex geometric tile flooring was designed for the space. No wonder Tillie’s was voted the most beautiful restaurant in Texas by People magazine and Open Table in their listing of The 50 Most Beautiful Restaurants in America.

We arrived in time for Sunday brunch and agreed, in fairness to our palates, that all meals should be shared. The smoked brisket hash had just the right combination of perfectly prepared brisket combined with potato, onion, peppers, and avocado crema and was topped with sunny-side-up eggs. The dark yellow egg yolks gave a hint that their chickens had recently laid them. The avocado toast was the perfect complement of (freshly baked?) sourdough bread piled high with avocado, cilantro, pickled vegetables, and cotija cheese. Sorbet with fresh berries was just one of the complimentary, anniversary, treats we were surprised with during our visit.

Of course, we dressed for dinner and made a toast with our complimentary glass of Champagne. Watching the beautiful presentations of plates pass by us, we finally decided on a starter of crisp baby romaine, which was much more complex than its name. The piparras peppers, from Spain’s Basque region, were mild and sweet, the pistachios were smokey and the olives, tomatoes, and herbs atop an avocado green goddess dressing were the perfect savory compliment. It was difficult to leave even a dot of the delicious shellfish cream sauce that covered the agnolotti pasta stuffed with potato and shrimp or the spinach coulis that was drizzled over the halibut.

We wondered if the food was as – close your eyes as you savor every bite – delicious, or if the atmosphere lent itself to us believing so. As we devoured what we agreed was, the best egg sandwich we’d ever eaten, the next morning we decided we were correct on both counts.

Lodging
From the wooden key cards to the room’s leather trash cans, the selection of Vietnamese coffees, the electric kettle with various temperature controls, the robes awaiting our arrival in the closet, and the toilet tissue folded into a point, Whit and Kim’s special touches lovingly graced our room. Our Treetop Room had a private balcony that looked out to a lovely hill country view and made it hard to leave. The room’s décor gave us a peak into the couple’s private antique collection.

Our Visit
The resort offers a variety of guest experiences, some included and some for a fee. We opted for the complimentary history tour and alpaca feeding, two great ways to get our bearings. The pool area was a lovely sanctuary, and we swam, slept, and read our afternoons away.

I took a private yoga class, which was held outside on a beautiful morning. My yoga teacher, Stephanie, introduced me to mudras, a Sanskrit word meaning gestures. Mudras are hand and finger gestures that are believed to influence energy flow in the body and mind.

As we walked around the property, a surprise awaited us at every turn: an antique bird cage, a sculpture made more beautiful with its covering of moss, a vineyard producing Camp Lucy wines, an outdoor pavilion, and handmade clay tiles, both from Vietnam. We learned that the stonework, which looked ancient, was installed by master stonemason Dario Camacho. His unique style became so popular customers began referring to it as “Dario style.”

The purchase of an antique Amish barn, brought from Ohio and, once again, painstakingly rebuilt, piece by piece, showcased the simplistic beauty of the wood and its design and is now known as the Great Hall. Measures were taken to make sure the small cross etched into the wood on the outside of the barn was on display. It was a symbol, used by the Underground Railroad, as a secret message denoting a haven for escaped slaves.

The gnarled trees that had grown up and across the dirt path to Sacred Oaks gave this outdoor wedding venue a mystical feel. As the sun dappled through the trees, we walked up to the arch and in front of the empty chairs, set up in rows, had an impromptu vow renewal ceremony. Walking back, the Camp Lucy logo, a heart-shaped emblem and a Vietnamese symbol for love and family, kept appearing on tiles and stones. When we returned to our room, complimentary gold-covered chocolate strawberries awaited our arrival. Another perfect day at Camp Lucy.

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Stepping Up and Out in Croatia- October 2022

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Traveling to Croatia is not for the faint of heart. Between the uneven steps everywhere, that seem to lead to the sky, and the steep limestone streets, worn to a lovely patina, but slippery when wet, you would be smart to come prepared with sneakers/walking shoes. That said, every step you take will be well worth it!

Located in Southeastern Europe, this small country borders Slovenia, Hungary and Serbia. Situated on the Adriatic Sea, Croatia has strived to keep its head above water since the 7th century by being innovative and one step ahead of its enemies. Curving the massive stone walls that protected its cities, this design was more resistant to cannon fire than straight sided fortresses. This helped protect their trading port that rivaled Venice. This small, but mighty country has worked hard to stay afloat, especially after its devastating civil war in the 1990’s. 

The red tiled roofs on the homes nestled into the limestone hills gives the scenery a Mediterranean look, as the Adriatic Sea sparkles below. Blessed with a perfect climate, ancient sites, wonderful food and a grasp of the importance of hospitality, Croatia has become a top tourist destination. 

Touting itself as the quintessential summer destination, massive crowds from over ten cruise ships docking at once have caused their UNESCO World Heritage Site status to be in question. In October, prices drop, crowds dwindle and with temperatures in the 70’s, you can still swim (bring your flip flops; beaches are rocky).

Split
Our taxi stops abruptly. The driver tells us in broken English that he cannot drive any further into the Old City. Just when we’re wondering which way to walk, we see Mario running towards us calling our name. Sent from the hotel to personally carry our luggage and walk us to our hotel, we are already impressed with the Marmont Heritage Hotel. It’s a charming, small hotel (21 rooms) with views of Old Town and Diocletian Palace.

At first glance, Croatia’s second largest city seems so perfect. With its striking scenery and palm trees all overlooking the bright blue Adriatic Sea, it looks like a movie set. Actually, Game of Thrones was filmed throughout Croatia. 

Built in the 4th century AD, by the Roman Emperor, Diocletian, his Palace’s preserved remains form half of Old Town. Museums, shops, restaurants and over 1000 people reside within the walls of the UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s hard to fathom the historical significance and sheer age of the sights before you.

Diocletian’s mausoleum has been repurposed into the Cathedral of St. Duje and stands as the oldest cathedral in the world. You can enjoy a coffee or a cocktail, sitting on a pillow on the steps of Peristil Square, the original Roman court. Even the Kappa traditional music performed in the square has been granted UNESCO status. The steps taper as you climb the bell tower, but the view at the top is worth it. Make sure to rub the toe of the Grgur Ninski statue for good luck. 

A cocktail with a view is our reward for walking up the steep hill and the many steps amid a forest of pine trees and a peak into an old Jewish cemetery, on our way to Marjan, a hill on the peninsula of the city. Our first Croatian meal introduces us to their Italian influenced cuisine. At Apetit, a 15th century palazzo, the four of us dine on eggplant tempura, seabass, black rice made with squid ink and beef with gnocchi; sharing prevents having to choose just one entrée. After dinner, there’s still time for a lovely stroll on The Riva, the promenade known as “Split’s living room.”.

Hvar
The catamaran from Split to Hvar is large, with comfortable seats and beautiful views. We are warmly welcomed at the dock by a hotel representative, who scoops up our luggage and leads the way. 

This picturesque city has that Wow Factor. The boats and yachts regally swaying in the harbor, the wide, café lined walkways bordering the sea perfect for people watching, this town is sophisticated enough for Prince Harry sightings (pre-Meghan), but casually elegant, so that the city seems unaffected by it all. Metal signs politely announce the fines imposed for improper behavior. Diagonal red lines through a series of drawings get the point across: no bathing suits and no public consumption of alcohol along the main thoroughfares. 

Any hotel that welcomes you with champagne at check-in quickly rises to a favorite. The Adriana Hotel and Spa is contemporary and tastefully furnished in soft colors, but adding just a touch of blue, everywhere you look, to remind you the sea is nearby. Our room is a relaxing haven with spectacular views and an impressive two-person jacuzzi. The hotel’s outdoor pool, patio area and indoor infinity pool remind us to save time to experience them all. With displays of food that are almost too beautiful to eat, such as honey slowly dripping from its honeycomb into a silver bowl, this could very well be the best buffet breakfast we’ve ever encountered. 

It’s a 25-minute walk up to Fortica Spanjola, the town’s fortress and a 16th century prison, but the views make it worthwhile. According to local law, it was abandoned and left for the fairies to dance in at night. That story, along with the gardens and walkways that zig zag down the hill and lead to patios and homes built into the side of the hill, give the area a magical feel. 

We didn’t come all this way to not swim in the Adriatic Sea. We cross the rocky beach and take turns climbing down a ladder into the water. It’s not what we expected, but once we are swimming, it’s hard not to remain a bit longer.

Dalmatino, with its wonderful food served by a highly professional, yet personable staff, gets our vote for our favorite meal. A “Booze Bouche” of carob and brandy playfully replaces the usual Amuse Bouche. Feasting on tuna tartare, gnocchi, sea bass and filet, we couldn’t resist sharing a piece of grandma’s homemade cake. 

The live music we hear coming from the bar, Central Park, perks us up and we decide to stop for a nightcap. Many nightcaps and dances later, we have made some new friends from Canada and Sweden

Dubrovnik 
After another smooth catamaran ride, we arrive at Dubrovnik’s busy port and secure a taxi to our hotel. The Hotel Imperial Dubrovnik is a Hilton property. Classically elegant, its housed in a historic building, just outside the walls of Old Town, dating back to 1897.

Old Town is known as being one of the most perfectly preserved medieval cities in the world. Traffic free and surrounded by rugged limestone mountains and the sun dabbled Adriatic Sea, its steep, winding steps and narrow walkways lure you into the joy of wandering around until you get lost.

It’s a tourist tradition to walk the wall and you’ll pay $33 for the privilege. Be prepared for very steep steps to get to the top, then it’s a 1¼ mile walk all around. Enjoy amazing views, and cafes and shops to stop at along the way. 

Banje Beach is just a short walk from Old Town. Nestled within the impressive coastline, it’s not a sandy beach, but at least pebbles have replaced the rocks we encountered in Hvar and It’s hard not to spend the entire day swimming.

While we did enjoy the dark, quaint Bakus Wine Bar and our chat with a couple from England, the Buza Bar is not to be missed. You enter through a hole in the wall (“buza” is Croatian for hole) and come out the other side to view a bar and tables built on the cliffs. Included in our visit was a show; teenagers jumping from the cliffs, down 30 feet into the water!

The Forty-Four Restaurant stood out, not only for its food, but its presentation. The server wore white gloves and the breaded artichokes with cheese, Korčula macaroni with beef and goat cheese and sea bass with chick peas, swiss chard and tomatoes were creatively served in lovey pottery dishes. 

“Forced” to stay an extra day due to flight changes and with our hotel sold out, we head to the Prijeko Palace for the night. With assistance of the Croatian government, the 15th century palace has been renovated back to its former glory, with a quirky twist. Each of the nine rooms/suites are colorfully decorated in styles ranging from modern to Baroque. The avant-garde rooms are the backdrop for the explosions of photography that line the walls. 

Our travel partners having left for Italy. It’s just the two of us and we decide on a romantic dinner at the palace’s rooftop terrace restaurant, Stara Loza. We are surprised to see what looks like a young girl sitting on the ledge of the wall, but realize it’s an incredible lifelike, life- size sculpture. We smile to think their art had its way of startling us again. 

With lovely vistas of the city, we dine on tuna tartare, veal risotto and squid with potatoes and avocado. It’s one of those perfect evenings. I smile at the older French couple sitting next to us and say ‘Isn’t this just one of the best places in the world?!” That leads to a discussion of their favorite travel destinations.

I take a moment to jot them all down and smile, thinking how this wonderful adventure we’ve had has culminated into a list of where we need to head to next.