Justin Goes To Portugal

The Way of Saint James      I am now at the halfway point of the Way, having just crossed the Minho River into Spain. The scenery along the route has been a wonderful mix of wilderness and farming towns, where the receptive locals are often quick to wish me a “Bom Caminho.” These small municipalities, nestled in green valleys and full of stone walls, are charming not only in their beauty but also in their simplicity. They usually consist of just a few dozen farmsteads, a cafe, and a church that tolls “Ave Maria” before telling the hour. There are no towering buildings, no advertisements, no gaudy displays of wealth. Everything and everyone seems down-to-earth, honest, and humble.       Though the Way has at times been challenging physically (twenty to thirty kilometres a day, with hills) and mentally (bouts of boredom and occasional despair due to the distance), it has overall been an excellent experience. Engaging with its rich religious history is me...