My Base is Growing…!

My base of readers is growing slowly but steadily!
I hope to keep posting blogs about things that interest or inspire you!

I currently have 106 followers on wordpress and by email subscription.

There are over 260 people following on other platforms that have the opportunity to see my blog posts as well.

Plus, my mom recently told me that even though she can’t figure out how to subscribe, I should add one more to my count of faithful readers.

More than the stats and data, I appreciate that each individual takes a few minutes out of their busy day to chuckle at my thoughts, comment on my feelings, and enjoy my pictures (mostly of food).

Hugs, confetti, and ‘thank yous’ all around. You cats sure know how to make a girl feel special.

~Kat~

Spain Series: Lodging

After our first (long) day hiking around the Pyrenees mountains a long haul with perhaps 100 bunk mates was a welcome sight.

The ancient beauty of the albergue was not to be outshone by the many pairs of bunkbeds. The converted churches and monasteries made the prettiest ceilings for sore and tired pilgrims.

One thing I could hardly believe were the frequency of warm and hot showers. The picture above is the Jesus y María in Logroño and with over a hundred people on two floors in bunkbeds I got a hot shower. Spain must have magical water heaters.

Not too surprisingly, toilets were more hit or miss. From the toilet/handsoap quantity to the Easter egg search that had to be performed on the flush handle almost every visit.

The basic formula of an albergue (Al-bur-gay) was a room with double bunk beds, shower and toilet combo (not always split for sexes), a kitchen, possibly a laundry area and a shoe rack designated for dirty shoes that were not allowed in the dorm rooms.

Some of the private hostels veered away from the dull white on white color scheme. We were always a little shocked when we came upon bright pink or orange sheets. What a treat!

This was a very visually appealing albergue along the way. Although it was very plain it just had a good feel. Deep brown ceiling and floor with the lighter colors on the bunks themselves.

Ciraqui (sear-raw-key) had some freaky art and dripping paint effects in the process.

Although one night we worried about finding an inn with room. We never had to worry about staying in one of these wild looking rock shelters.

So, what can be said about shared living spaces?
• Don’t gawp in the bathrooms.
• Wear earplugs and an eye mask.
• Don’t be easily offended by smells.
• Stay in a hostel when you go to Europe—the experience was very enjoyable.