Santiago tourist day

Today was our final day in Santiago and with it the end of our Camino. But we have discovered that the authentic Camino begins when it is completed. We started our day at the Post Office to mail back a box of the Camino gear we will not need for the rest of our trip as well as the clothes we now realise we will not need. I know I will have been successful if by the time I get home, I have worn everything in my case. We then went to English Mass at the Pilgrim Office. A little chapel that was full with people from US, Australia, Scotland, Philippians. The Priest was from Philippians, but now lives in Santiago. He was wonderfully welcoming. For the prayers of the faithful we were all invited to the altar to light a candle and offer a prayer. We said a prayer for all our family and loved ones. There are many English speaking volunteers - religious and ley. They offer an incredible service of retreats and reflection opportunities over tea. After tea we spent some time watching the new pilgrims arriving at the Plaza - always an emotional experience. We couldn’t believe it when we saw a friend from many days ago - when we attended our retreat at the Benedictine Monastery. We spent some time catching up and then headed to lunch where we had a delicious paella. We had our obligatory siesta and a little later headed off for a walking tour of the old town which was a very relaxed and informative walk. We had a light dinner at a vegan cafe, which was a very nice change. Last little bit of packing and admin before our departure tomorrow and then bed zzzz

Tomorrow we are heading to Barcelona for 4 days and then on to Italy. We will post our Camino reflections tomorrow and end this Penguin trip!Read more