Night 3: The City of Pamplona

What a beautiful city I’ve arrived in! Behind a few giant fortress walls built in the 16th century lies the center of the city Pamplona. The colorful painted apartment complexes sit directly on top of their much older, 16th century foundations. I wouldn’t mind getting lost in these streets. They’re designed for walking as well, so you never see any cars besides the occasional taxi. Its just people walking around the city, which I appreciate. I like to see the locals.

Our party of 5 pilgrims increased to 7 today! There’s me, Hailee, Eddi, Alecio, Janero, Leo, and Che-San. I’ve learned a ton just by spending time with these people, who are amazing, by the way. Alecio and Janero made us an Italian dinner last night, and it was amazing! And Alecio brought me my socks that I had forgotten upstairs! I was worried about getting my stuff stolen, but I don’t have to worry about that with these people. Of course I won’t take unnecessary risks, but I do trust these people. We’re in a comradarie, getting blisters and aching backs together.

Alecio making the Italian pasta dinner

My hips and shoulders still hurt, and I have a terrible ache in my tailbone from where the backpack sits. On top of that, I’m starting to get blisters on my left foot. I hope they hold up.

It’s very common in Spain to drink and smoke. I have seen that around every city corner. I’m the unusual one for not drinking alcohol. It’s kinda eye-opening to see how different parts of the world are from my home.

Oh, I lost my guidebook today. I’m quite bummed out about it. I sat down in a beautiful field to take it in and I’m pretty sure it fell out of my pocket when I stood up, and I didn’t notice until a couple miles later. I wish it didn’t happen, cause that book had all the information I needed and lots of interesting historical facts, but I’ll get by just fine without it. There is an app which has the same route and the same places to stay, so it’ll be just fine.

The resting place of the guidebook

Tomorrow I have 24km to walk to Puenta La Reina. I’ll miss Pamplona, it is a truly beautiful city.