A word to the wise, avoid Portugal in July. Wow it is hot in the land of Port wine, blue tile, orange roofs and Catholic Churches. The temps have hovered around the mid 90’s and have been above 100 some days. There are wildfires in various parts of the country that we have avoided so far. All in, it’s been pretty good. Just need to drink lots of water and an occasional beer or two.
Our good friends, the Clayton’s, joined us in Porto for the final 13 days of the walk. We currently have 9 days left before reaching Santiago. There are more ”pilgrims” since we’ve left Porto. It seems that 150 miles is pretty good for most people!? The accommodations have been really cool—renovated farm houses that have been in the family for years. The family has converted these places into very nice bed and breakfast hotels. The food is terrific and the hospitality outstanding. These folks get a big charge out of yours truly trying to explain something in a combination of bad Portuguese, pig latin, english and hand gestures that often look like I need to use the rest room quickly. It’s maddening when I soon learn they speak english like an evening news anchor. It’s kind of interesting that about 50% of the population, especially those over 60 wear masks—on the streets, in the cafe’s, markets, public transportation. Nine days of walking left, which is a little over 100 miles. We’d like it to be a bit cooler, but we can’t complain (and no one would care if we did). Spain is in sight…almost. Buen Camino!
slowoldnstupid 