Gathering in Porto, Portugal

Today was the day everyone was scheduled to meet up in Porto, Portugal, to kick off our adventure. However, the day before we saw lots of smoke in the sky due to wildfires. It was so bizarre to see a red sun in the middle of the afternoon. Dale and Christine arrived a day early, while Marian C. and Debbie had been exploring Portugal on their own for about a week, enjoying themselves despite a few funny incidents. Marian Y. flew in from Philadelphia, and eventually, we all gathered at our hostel in downtown Porto.

Our afternoon began with lunch at a neighborhood café, followed by some time spent organizing our Camino hike. Since hiking poles aren't allowed on flights, we all took the subway to a mall and sports store to pick up poles for those who needed them. It was a great opportunity for everyone to brush up on their Google Maps skills.

Later, Dale took Marian C. to Porto’s Cathedral to see the official starting point of the Portuguese Camino. The rest headed back to the Spot Hostel, as Marian C & I made sure to visit a few famous Porto landmarks along our way back to the hostel. Porto is known for its famous blue ceramic tile work and we found two great examples at the train station and a local church.

While we aim to embrace the spirit of pilgrimage, which is central to the Camino experience, I’ve already hiked the primary route across Northern Spain for seven weeks with a 17-pound pack. This time, I want the three ladies to get a feel for the Camino without the full hardship. We’ll be staying in hostels and guesthouses—no more dorm rooms with 60 people for me—and shipping our luggage each day. We're doing a “Camino Light,” seeking the beauty and friendships of the Camino, but without the drudgery.

In the evening, Marian C., Marian Y., and Debbie kindly took Christine and me out for dinner to celebrate our anniversary. After 43 years of marriage, it’s still wonderful to share such special moments with great friends.

Each day we plan to have a different person write the blog. Today it is Dale.Read more