A World of Contrasts

Last Friday I went to the city for a bit of the urban buzz that only a true city can give you. As I drove into the first street I was taken aback by the light. But I was struck by the bright lights of the city. It was a one of those times when the hairs on the back of your neck stand on end and you get that warm, excited nervousness take over your body. I am as the Spanish say a “Capitalino” After buying a new corduroy shirt (not ideal for the hot weather I grant you) and some delightful cakes form the best artisan bakery I know in the city I headed back to my friends house for what would be my penultimate night with them.

The following day was an early rise (not great for a Saturday), when I say early it was about 9 o’clock. We were off to test out a walk as an activity for students. We met up with others involved in the project and headed off in two cars. I got the luxury of travelling in the back with enough space to enjoy the spectacular scenery that lay ahead

We travelled way up into the mountains on roads that cling to the side of the long solidified igneous rock. After a few hairpin bends, being faced with sheer vertical drops of hundreds of metres and some very close shaves with oncoming vehicles (including lorries and buses as it the only road to the towns and villages in the mountains) we arrived ready to take a leisurely walk. I had expected such high altitudes to have fairly cool temperature despite what I had been told. How wrong can a person be?! (Only mad dogs and all that!)

We set off on a downward slope so I was anticipating an upward climb later on. It was less of a walk and more of a hike but one which I thoroughly enjoyed. We climbed, sauntered and meandered whilst laughing and joking. I was surprised by just how enjoyable a hike up a steep mountain in the midday sun could be! We attempted to pick pomegranates from a tree growing on the mountainside. I say pick, we shook a lot of branches and threw stones at them as they were dangerously high for sensible adults to climb and reach (If only we were children without fear of heights or falling from them). Turns out they were not quite ripe anyway so better luck next time. I had a great conversation with one of the group about all sorts of things including films. I found out that we have quite a lot in common especially liking spicy food and being partial to a gin and tonic. After the strenuous activity it was time for light refreshment. At eh bottom of this part of the mountain we had a beer and sat in the sun. Next it was time for lunch so off to the coast to get some good seafood. Sardines, Galician octopus, tuna and a martini bianco later I set off for the city again. This time get the keys to my new flat!