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The Camino The Way of Saint James February 2nd-7th 2020

I started walking the Francés Way on February 2. It is the most popular of the different ways of Saint James Way; walking the last 115 km (70 miles) is one of the most popular routes to gain your passport and be able to experience to be a pilgrim.
The first day I walked from Sarria to Portomarin though beautiful countryside and meeting many people. I ended the day Staying in Portomarin a city that was rebuilt when the reservoir was bound to cover it. The church was relocated block by block.
The second Day I walked from Portomarin to Palas del Rei; along the way I met a wonderful family from Canada. It was the second day of around 24km (15 miles). Outside of Palas de Rei there is a Castle.
Melide
From Melide to Arzúa
  • Horrios for storing grain
Arzúa to O’Pedrouzo
O’Pedrouzo to Santiago de Compostela ! What a fun Journey !

St. Petersburg Bound – a rare opportunity…

Wednesday, after a historic and architecture tour of Helsinki, I boarded a ship to ‘sail’ overnight and arrive in St Petersburg the next morning where I experienced and all day tour with my Russian guide Elena and the driver Boris.  I thought there was going to be 25 people in my group but I was the sole person!  What a great time and learning experience.

This was one of the main reasons for visiting St Petersburg

As it happens sometimes, this is the view of The Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood during some renovations.

The inside is filled with mosaics

Other important buildings:

Saints Peter and Paul Fortress. The original citadel of St. Petersburg founded by Peter the Great in 1703

St. Issacs Cathedral
The largest Russian Orthodox Cathedral in the city

Catherine Palace where the location of the Amber Room is. We were not allowed to take photos but if you are interested, it’s on the internet

Arrived back in Helsinki and took a ferry to Tallinn Estonia

Kroner is the currency of Denmark. From left to right: 20 Kroner will buy a coffee. 5 Kroner + 20 will buy an ice cream, the next – 2 Kroner good to have if you are in need of a bathroom. And 1 Kroner is the last coin.