Day 31 Zamora 'Stop' Day 7.05.23

Wonderful waking in a spacious apartment. Made toast and coffee in-house, who could want more? A trip to the laundromat discovered the way out for Camino tomorrow and the option to go via Portugal, that we do not. More coffee in the bar near the laundromat was useful and they had a stamp for the credentials. Returned the dry washing to the apartment and took off to explore the town. As we walked we met up unexpectedly with the two dutch ladies and immediately (and enthusiastically) agreed on drinks and dinner with them at 1900 in the Plaza Mayor. And including also Isabelle who has just arrived in town today.

Then off to the tourism office for a town map and suggestions of what to see, and get the Day 2 credential stamp. Maps in hip pocket we launched for the cathedral which is located at the end of a ridge line overlooking the river and beside the fort. The attractions are not open, viewing is purely from the outside. But the outside did not disappoint and we enjoyed a leisurely stroll through the gardens and lawns adjoining. A perfect setting for a picnic, a relaxing interlude to a busy day, to kick back with a good book or just to take it all in, listen to the sounds of nature and enjoy the cool surroundings. That's exactly what we did. Then we meandered back through city streets to our apartment, marvelling at the architecture along the way. A bit of quick preparation for tomorrow followed by a hasty return to Plaza Mayor for our dinner.

A sixth member David from Melbourne joined us. A bottle of wine, pleasant chatting and nice food ($EU16 for J and me). It was a particularly special and memorable evening, a celebration of the fact that the five of us (with Isabelle, Sonya and Margarita) had commenced together from Seville (Day 1 of the Via de la Plata - in fact within the first 5 or 7 km) and simultaneously a farewell to S & M who have already booked bus tickets to Porto in the morning. A bit sad to have to say goodbye, but at the same time nice to have had the unexpected opportunity to do so appropriately over a lovely alfresco meal in a beautiful venue. I'm sure we will continue to see Isabelle (and David as well) from time to time, or at the very least, to keep in touch. And maybe one day we will find our way to the Netherlands to visit S & M. It's amazing the 'forever after' friends you make on the camino.

Back to bed by 2200 in view of our early morning departure walking. The others had the luxury of sleeping in tomorrow, and so 'partied on' with some stronger alcohol than would would have suited us.