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Arrived in Madrid early this morning, then connected to Porto, Portugal. I'm relieved to say my pack came through unscathed (may not have been pretty, but the garbage bags and duct tape did the trick)! Just missed airport shuttle, so took metro (2 connection and a nice walk) to hotel. Nice, easy, clean system. They have San Francisco sized hills in Porto - makes me a bit leery of what may lay ahead.... ??
Dropped pack at hotel and took off to explore the city as a tourist. Wow - what an incredible place! I'm sure my iPhone pictures won't do it justice, but attaching them anyway (FYI travelpod puts them in story randomly from remote app, so apologies if it's confusing). Here are some highlights:
- Taking the city tour bus to get it all in
- stoping at the Atlantic to check out the beach
- taking a cable car ride over the Port wine cellars to the top of the famous Luis I bridge
- taking a boat ride on the Duomo river
- fresh catch for dinner at the Ribeira Market
- finished my day enjoying a port wine (they make it here - being in Porto and all ;)
- oh, and listened to some beautiful Portuguese music (trying a video here, not sure it will work)
Yep - today felt like a vacation, for sure.
In preparation for tomorrow, I visited the cathedral to get a Pilgrims Passport and a stamp for my Camino walk. This was big - spent some time there to let it soak in.
As beautiful as Porto is during the day, it is completely magical at night. I wish I could stay for a while, but know I must begin my journey. I'll have my pictures and memories, and know I will return some day for more leisure.
For tonight, I have a great bed to sleep in and my own shower - I'm going to enjoy those luxuries and call it a day...
Tomorrow begins the Camino.
Some Stats:
Miles by flight: 4457
Miles by foot: 8.5 (some with pack, some without)
Steps: 15k plus
Time walking: 12 hours out - off and on walking
Start/finish: Chicago, USA - Porto, Portugal (by way of Madrid, Spain)
FYI - I will not be able to see emails or comments posted. Please continue, but don't be upset if you don't hear back ;)
Also, I have NO idea on wifi from here out, so don't be worried if you don't hear from me for a bit.
- comments
kkubesh Hi Kristi,Sports update - Cubs beat the Brewers, arrrgggghhhh!!!Happy Trails, have a great trip. Kevin
renee kubesh I love your photos! you frame the shots so well...especially the bridges. walk strong, breathe deep! love always,
Nancy B. Safe travels, my friend! Can't wait to hear stories of the people you will meet, the scenery, the food, and how you found your inner "MacGyver" :) Take care, Kristi, and enjoy your journey!