Convento de San Francisco

The thing about Spain is there are no screens on the windows. Even the fanciest hotels sometimes don’t have air conditioning. Evidently we did not learn from our prior bug infestation, and when we returned to our room last night we were overwhelmed with flying insects. Joan jumped into action and got them all. A Pilgrim is always working.

So no air all night, this led to a poor nights sleep for Joan, (Julie slept like a baby). Joan awoke with a hip issue and immediately began stretching. Good thing we are at a spa, as Joan was able to go to the massage chair, Turkish bath, all to help her aching joints and muscles. Julie went to an amazing breakfast.

Our cab arrived promptly at 10 am for a quick jaunt to Palencia. One look at the big hill outside of the spa, led to our decision to take a rest day and take a quick cab and then train to Leon.

Oh and Julie was bit by a bee/wasp on her arm and had growing red reaction around the sting. Dr Joan was a big help and our first stop in Palencia was a Pharmacia for some bug lotion and a new knee brace for Joan. We had time to see some of the interesting sights in their old town and off to the train to Leon (45 min). We walked to our hotel in old town and then to out to explore. No time to see the sights, Julie needed new Hoka shoes and Joan some rain pants. However most/all stores closed 1- 5 pm for siesta. We found a great spot for some cocktails and a rousing game of uno. We were successful finding our new gear and off to search for dinner. We both had a hankering for pasta and found a great outdoor Italian cafe with beautiful views of the Cathedral.

Tomorrow is a national holiday in Spain as they celebrate- National Day of Spain. They celebrate Christopher Columbus sailing to the new world- October 12, 1492. All shops closed, bars and restaurants are open. We will celebrate appropriately as we will be in Leon another day.

Buen Camino!Read more