Well, this day is not really going as expected. We thought we would be in Lourdes, France by now. In my research on travel in Europe I understood that booking tickets ahead was not necessary This proved to not be the case for us today. The trains to Narbonne, France were full. We were directed to a regional train to Cerbere, just over the French border. Tiny tiny town but pretty. We walked down the, pretty much only, street in town to the bus stop. The bus ride to Banyuls Sur Mer was really pretty with views of the ocean on one side and hillsides full of grapes on the other. Boarded another bus to Perpignan where we will wait about 5 hours to get on a train to Toulouse. I found a hotel next to the train station and we, God willing, will catch an early train to Lourdes. I did book that one and the train to San Sebastián already. I must say, a cell phone is essential for in the moment travel arrangements. Our spirits are high but our energy level is low. I sit with my feet up on my bag outside next to the train tracks in perfect temperature. It is a welcome relief from the heat and humidity of Barcelona. Sadly, we miss the food in Barcelona. More to come tomorrow- hopefully from Lourdes.
Update… Regional trains are on strike and we had to take a bus. Currently sitting in a train station in Narbonne and praying the next train is not cancelled. We will get there eventually.
Adventure
Oh, my gosh. Kinda reminds me of our travel from Madrid to Bordeaux 25 years ago. We were supposed to be on a bullet train that would have taken around a couple of hours but instead were placed on an ordinary one that took close to 8-10 hours. All due to a railroad union strike. Strikers on the tracks kept stopping the train! Anyhow you get the picture. The reliable European rail system — sometimes not so reliable!
It really tires you out (the couple traveling with us spent most of the time in a tiny restroom on the train due to stomach problems!)
Not a happy time! But the next few days we spent touring the great Bordeaux wineries! And visiting cathedrals and shops (with tapas) in Bordeaux! Happy! Happy!
Rest up! Tomorrow’s another day!
Waiting to hear from you guys tomorrow! Praying for you! With Love!
You just have to think that there is a reason for everything. You are seeing scenery that you would have missed. It is all beautiful. So glad you are sharing with us. Be safe and rest up.
Love y’all
Still praying for both ! Think positive. Beautiful pictures. Oh yea, just remembered the threat of strikes on out Italy trips. Not notice, just happens.
Anthony, trying to make the taps dry before you get back.
Thanks for posting all of the beautiful photos! It seems like this pilgrimage is very much like the Pilgrimage of Life–full of unexpected delays and detours. Sending our love!
I was about to write on the last post that you two really know how to travel, but even the best-laid plans often don’t work. No wrong turns, only new adventures, I always say! We had a similar experience in France in 2019 — suddenly trains on strike! Work-around on buses! Wonderful pictures!