…and back again!
Cadiz has turned out to be a good location for a few days of exploring and staying dry!! We took the train this morning from Cadiz to Jerez. The train station is only a few blocks from where we are staying here in Cadiz. The station is right next to an Aldi, which we have happily shopped at every day. And yes, it is set up exactly like the Aldi stores we are familiar with in the states, only with a bakery where you can buy a huge loaf of fresh, crusty bread for .69 Euros (75 cents)! I will need to check an Aldi at home to see if the Christmas candy is already out like it is here!!
After finding our correct train, with the help of a young man we heard speaking perfect English (Spanish-born, with an American mother), we settled in for the 45 minute train ride to Jerez. The name Jerez developed from Arabic and has become synonymous for our English word, sherry, so it is no surprise that Jerez is famous for its sherry and brandy production. Not only is Jerez known for its wines, it is known for its equestrian tradition, and is considered the home of flamenco dancing. After strolling through some beautiful plazas, past some ancient walls, and by some bubbling fountains, we took the train back to Cadiz to settle in for a night of reading and laundry!
Speaking of laundry…I was able to wash all of our clothes twice tonight! At most spots along the Camino, we haven’t had a washing machine, and we have been washing all the clothes we have with us in sinks and showers. Since we have been gone now for several weeks, I thought everything deserved an extra wash and soak!! One thing we haven’t come across yet is a dryer. An occasional dryer can be found, but most people, whether in homes or apartments, hang their clothes on drying racks on balconies, in yards, or out apartment windows. Homes are not as spacious, and dryers are expensive to run. While I miss my washing machine, I am enjoying hanging up our few things (memories from the clothesline of my youth, perhaps?), and could be something I could do more of at home.
We have been in almost daily contact with our first (and favorite) Camino friend, Laura. We had to part ways when we decided to ride bike for a few days to make up some time. The forecast for the Camino’s foreseeable days is for severe rain and wind gusts up to 42 mph. I am thankful to be somewhere warm and dry tonight, and to have shelter available to us for tomorrow. We will be sending prayers for a safe walk her way (and some encouraging texts as well)!
Good night from Cadiz.
Buen Camino!
