Okay, the trip over was long. And as usual on over-night flights for, I did not sleep a wink.
I arrived at the Grande Hotel Paris in Porto just as one of the other members of our group was walking down into the lobby. This was the first time I have met Jen and her husband Bill but our meeting felt like a reunion of old souls. I found a blog of Bill’s when he first began walking the Camino Frances this time last year. I have been following his blog ever since; I moderate a forum he has created after his return from Camino. Naturally when he decided to put together a group to walk the Camino Portugues, I was th!e first to jump on board – we all know how much I love the Camino!
Yesterday I strolled down to the River, had lunch in an outdoor cafe. I felt like I was transported right back “down Neck”, where many years ago I worked. For those of you who are unfamiliar with the term “down Neck” it is the Ironbound Section of Newark, NJ. It happens to be an area where many Portuguès and Spanish immigrants have settled. I worked for NJ Transit in their corporate headquarters located in that area for many years. So the meal I had in the cafe was reminiscent of many lunches I had while working.
It was churasco, a smoked sausage which comes to the table on a special type plate. The waiter ignites the liquid and the sausage cooks right at your table. It was positively delicious!
Thoughts and Adventures 
Glad u made it safely! Enjoy every bite,smell and visual experience. Love J
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Sounds wonderful, besides being jet lagged. I am so happy for you.
Can’t wait to hear more.
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Arlene, have the most wonderful Camino. It sounds fabulous. May your steps be light as air, may the sun be on your back, may the wine flow freely and may all your prayers be answered.
Blessings
Anne👣 👣
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Yum, glad to hear you are settling in!
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What an awesome start to your adventure. Hopefully, you have rested some and are prepared to begin your adventure tomorrow. You, and your traveling companions, are in my thoughts and prayers. Travel safely, and buen Camino! Julie
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Hi Arlene – it’s uncanny that Jen and Bill were the first people you ran into at the hotel! That moment would have been wonderful for you all.
I’m very much looking forward to reading your blog as your Camino heads to Santiago.
Take joy in every step –
Jenny x
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Dear Arlene, good to hear you made it and hooked up with Bill and Jennifer. Enjoy evey step!
Re “down Neck” is a timely remark, as I’ll be in NJ later this year visiting with a friend who grew up there, so I’ll be sure to mention this to him to see if he too knows of it! Either way, the food sounds yummy. Will let you know whether it comes together during our time in NJ 🙂
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Arlene, enjoy every step and encounter. Warming up here. Nancy
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