Monday, 14 May Santiago

I got up at 7 am and had breakfast at 8 am. It was still raining. I went to the Correos for my parcel. I had to help the Señora find it. We finally found it round the back of the shelves, thank goodness! I took my laundry to be done and completed by 5 pm. I took a look round the cycle shop, but decided to postpone a decision. It really depends on the weather. I could do the service myself if it stopped raining. The pressing thing was to change the brake blocks (they were very worn) and I was carrying new ones. I bought toothpaste and a new body spray in a Supermercado.

I took my purchases back to the hotel and sorted out my paperwork and brochures. I then braved the weather again and went to the cathedral for another look at the Pórtico de la Gloria. There were at least two artists in Rúa Vilar selling paintings and pen and ink sketches. I bought a small one of the Obradoiro Facade for Gran. I also looked at possibilities for Jenny’s present. I had thought of a pilgrim statue in jet, but it really was too expensive at £272! Lunch was a Pasta and Clam Soup and Veal and Chips with vegetables, not the best of the cheap meals.

I have lost weight, I am not sure how much, but my trousers with the elasticated waist do not stay up properly. I saw some nice leather belts in a gents outfitters and bought one. I collected my laundry at 5 pm and bought a new tube of super glue. The one I brought with me has gone missing. I saw a small Celtic cross in silver-gilt and jet, so bought that for Alasdair. I had seen a Celtic cross in silver and jet which would be suitable for Jenny. I got that with a chain and also a chain for Alasdair’s cross.

I love sea food! Unfortunately it is difficult to get a selection of sea food, unless you are in a party of two or more people. I had dinner at “Restaurante Santiaguiao.” Afterwards the waiter brought me a liqueur. The liqueur was yellow in colour and very cold and the glass was frosted. This is quite common in good Spanish restaurants. The meal and drinks made up for the very wet day; nearly 24 hours of constant rain!

Site created by Shane Badham