Vale Valencia - First Steps and Final Preps

Where and when does a Camino begin? Well I decided that mine started this morning. I packed my gear and walked to the water. I felt it splash over my toes and feet. Then it was back on with the shoes and socks and I was on my way. First stop breakfast.

Hoping for more ones like this. I have some long walking days ahead without much in the way of wayside bars, so I dropped by the central market (the Gran Mercat) for supplies - and started babbling in my ridiculous Spanish, and got away with it once or twice with some kind and friendly stall holders who weren’t fooled for a second.

Some dried fruit and nuts . . .

Then some beautiful sweet and savoury pastries.

Not many pilgrims go where I am going - so I needed to check with the Tourist Office about accommodation options for the first night. My inquiries did afford this first floor view from Government House.

Downstairs,  I goggle-translated myself to a very helpful Tourist Office staff member who rang ahead and spoke on my behalf . She then handed me this note.

How cool is that! First night’s accommodation sorted.

I walk out tomorrow in the early morning light. Vale Valencia!