Day 5

“Well I've been out walking, I don't do that much talking these days, these days.”—-Jackson Brown

Walked 11 miles today to Santarem, Portugal. The walk again was mainly through vineyards and farms. It was overcast for a good portion of the day but when sun was out it was hot and humid! There was no cafes between our starting point and Santarem. But we had packed a sandwich and apple from the hostel we stayed at last night. Water was a concern but about a 1/3 way to Santarem there was a water fountain where we could fill up our bottles

Met a Portuguese church group who was making their annual walk to Fatima from Azambuja. Although I think the heat got to them because we saw vans picking them up 1/2 way to Santarem where they said they were staying for the night

I’m staying at a modern hostel and have a private room with bath. Feet and body are holding up. No blisters!

I need to take pics of more locals. An elderly man who didn’t speak English but we could understand each other through limited phrases and hand gestures told me I needed a sun hat. I showed him that I had one and he said good. But I wish I would have taken his photo. His face was tan and deeply etched the way life has a tendency to do. And he had the most beautiful smile and sparkling eyes.

Tonight had a lovely Portuguese pilgrim’s meal at restaurant the hostel recommended. Rice, pork steak with fried egg on top and a salad. All for 12,50 euros

Another night falling into bed exhausted but feeling accomplishedRead more