Day 9. Los Arcos

Cathedral of Santa Maria de Los Arcos in Los Arcos 

Pilgrims sleeping outside the hostel because there were not more beds available last night in this town with population 150. ( we found a hotel room)

I am pointing to an Ancient hospital for pilgrims during medieval times. I wonder if medieval RNs received a sign-on bonus to work out here?  Shift-diff?

Why are the haystacks so tall?  Tall cows?

Streets of Los Arcos

 Sam with a beard ---very Hemingway 

Cafe de goata

City Park

Tinto de Verano. (Summer wine. Mix of one glass of red wine with lemonade or Fresca.)   Very refreshing ---my new Lakehouse drink for next summer. 

Hola,

Today, We walked 7.2 miles today in 3 hours. It was an easy day. That's 1/8. 

We had a peaceful night in the hotel last night. We did feel badly for the poor people that had to sleep in the courtyard. Ronan (Israel ) was one if them. All of them looked to be less than 35 years old so they probable had a good time together. At least that is what I'm telling myself. 

The other people in our hotel were 3 French and 2 Spanish. The Spanish couple offered everyone Oreos for breakfast, so I immediately liked them. The French woman did not speak English or Spanish, but took an Oreo and then scraped off the delicious creamy center and discarded it. I didn't like her. 

Her son & husband spoke English but they were not friendly to anybody. We have noticed on the Camino that the French only talk to the French. Sure, you might get a "Bon   Appetite"  out of one once in a while but generally they do not speak to the rest of the pilgrims.  They travel in small groups and keep to themselves. I have been to france and paris three times. Each time the french people  have been surly. I believe the french just do not like Americans. Ok...be that way. (My blog...my opinion.)

The Spanish couple did not speak English. I used my google translator and practiced my Spanish with them during breakfast ( it came with the room).  They were fun and patient while I slugged away at a Spanish conversation. 

Right now we are in a hostel. Again it's the size of a dorm room but with 3 bunk beds and walking distance around the beds. I'm on the top bunk, Sam on bottom. Bill is from Seattle , Monique is from Canada. The other 2 are French. :(

Monique walked 12 miles today and she is in pain. I told her about the backpack service. She is filling out the forms and joining the cheaters club with me. 

Tomorrow we will walk 12 miles to get to our next destination. We are mean, lean walking machines!   Sam's blister on his collarbone is almost healed. I have no blisters!

Thanks for following our blog. We feel your energy and encouragement.   XXOO.