Everything went like clockwork for my trip to Europe.  All the planes were on time; there was no wait at customs at Heathrow;  I caught the next available bus for my connection to Stansted Airport.  I had a long but easy wait there – I ate, window-shopped, and walked the terminals until it was time to board my flight to Porto.  

My hotel is right near the airport and it was a joy to make the same walk as I did on my trip here 2 years ago without any pain or limping.  A promising sign!  The hotel is a bit flashy in a modern/gaudy way but they welcomed me with a glass of champagne and a sweet treat so I have high hopes for my overnight stay here.

As I had a bit of a second wind, I immediately went out after the champers and caught a bus to the nearby mega sporting goods store, Decathlon.  Super cheap prices: I picked up a pair of hiking poles, a set of rubber tips for them, a light fleece pullover and a nylon shopping bag, all for €20!  So I splurged on an Uber back to the hotel.

Tomorrow:  the Camino begins! Porto to Matoshinos!