Rocks and Hot Places

Hello all,

On my way down south, i thought it only appropriate to pop into that British Rock of Gibraltar. As the bus drew close, a tear formed in my eye as it reminded me of a mini Hong Kong but that myth was soon dispelled. The main area of gibraltar is like Brighton was before it became a gay hang out town - tacky. Full of Brits shopping in British stores, pubs selling fish and chips or chicken curry and lots of fat people wearing too little clothes. I spent about 15 mins visiting the Houses of Parliament (off a main street) and no-one else came in. Mothercare over the road was clearly more important.

I walked up the rock which was an unexpected treat with proper trails and some great views although might be better to visit at a time of year where everything is not radiating white from the heat! There are also some fascinating military installations including the siege tunnels carved out in the Rock in a matter of weeks in the first world war. It is still a massive port with container ships all around. A shop had photos from the world wars and it was easy to imagine what it must have been like with war ships surrounding the Rock instead. There are also monkeys for hours of amusement as they terrorise the other tourists and a beautiful cave where they hold concerts. A fallen stalligtite has been cut in half and polished. The rings show how old it is and periods of rain/drought. Fascinating to look at thousands of years of history to the present all in one go.

It took me a couple of days to visit the Rock as my campground was an hour and half walk away. Thank goodness for the Camino, walking no problem : )

My small sarcoughagus like tent had a lovely little spot with two german girls beyond the hedge so i did not feel alone. However after - weeks of being with other people moreorless constantly it was good to have some space. Next to the beach, i could even get in some swimming and sun bathing before my trek to Morocco. Travelling to Morocco by myself is being greeted by many raised eyebrows and a massive hug from one of the german girls who told me to stay safe. My last night I enjoyed a meal of wine (not much of that where i am going), olives; hard cheese, salad, local salted fish (hung all around the streets to dry) and grapes. Figured I might as well go out with a bang!

I have been in Morocco for one week and it is interesting, different, a challenge but not impossible. Helps I speak French, as they do too ; ) I shall write more in the next email when I am not so frustrated by the "wrongly" laid out keyboard!

Peace and love,
Kath xx