So... soon to Lavacolla. Still, a highlight has been to meet our glorious leader, Ivar himself. Upright at his computer, surrounded by shelving, boxes and a fresh pile of
Brierley’s Sanabres/Invierno guide.
The queue at 10.30 opening time to apply for my Compostella was 5. Be warned: one is expected to download a QR code and fill in an online form. My technical abilities do not stretch that far (and my phone is early smart) so I was able to get the necessary blank paper form. This was in due course ignored by the giver of Compostellas, who reprimanded me for not having 2 daily stamps over two months...
The new Credencials actually have this notification at the head of each page.
Anyway - two visits to the cathedral. Quite alone. It should look wonderful for next year! In the meantime, a different layout and much building noise.
SdC means a chance to shop! New boots at my favoured emporium - Hipercor (ie hyper El Corte Ingles). Go past the railway station, through the tunnel under the tracks and up the hill. It’s unmissable on the right and has everything!
Plus - if you show a non-Spanish ID you get a Reward Card at the hospitality desk on the entrance floor, far end. 10 per cent on all purchases as a credit to buying something else. Good hiking selection and gift ideas. Christmas market already being set up...
So that’s it! See you next year. I am slimmer, fitter and my head is clearer. Part of me weeps for the pain in Spain. Coming in to San Lazaro yesterday, my waypoints of hairdresser and cafe were no more. Gone forever, I fear.
Ultreia!
However many times I come, I always notice something new
The yellow arrows indicate which side