North Spain - a misty memory

Northern Spain whizzed by so fast. One moment Barcelona the next Ourense.

Somewhere in the middle there were a few moments:

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After catching a night bus from Barcelona I arrive to a cold wet morning in Bilbao. To brighten my spirits I hunt down the nearest Cafe. Entering I'm confronted by a large room that looks more like a bar with stools. Here 4 men run a strict service. As you place your order the coffee is already brewing, and as you receive your change in one hand your fresh coffee is pushed into the other. Such speed and efficiency I'm wide-eyed in amazement.

The regular clientele stand at the bar, knocking back espressos before sliding a euro across the bar, picking up their hats, exchanging a muffled leaving word and escaping out the door.

Severely lacking in any sign of 'feminine homeliness' the bar could seem cold, but you gotta give it to the boys - they've got speedy service down to a fine art.

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Meeting up once more with Fred, Ania and Guzik we're again on the road with the 'go anywhere' camper van. searching for a spot to camp we get an opportunity to stretch its legs. Engaging 4 wheel drive we battle some of the toughest slopes, leading up into the mountains. The unstoppable beast climbs at a steady pace before coming to a rumbling stop in a perfect glowing golden field. Tonight we will sleep well :)

Eventually though our adventures across the north come to an end, and sounding like a familiar tune, we say our goodbyes. My destination: Ourense.