Our back packs arrived safely in Bilbao from Stanstead, but sadly my cherish Pilgrims Staff (that had travelled with me since the start of the Camino) did not.
The lost luggage lady in Bilbao was very pleasant, told us how beautiful Santiago was and that traditionally all ‘good pilgrims’ must burn their clothes at the end of the Camino in Finistere – all very interesting, but still no walking stick!
She generously offered me one of the lost luggage parasols…marvelous.
After an hour or so on the bus we arrived at Burgos at around 5:00pm and considered the week ahead.
We are close now to the start of the ‘Meseta’ , described by many pilgrims as the stretch of the Camino which represents the biggest mental challenge (plenty of time for contemplation)
Apparently, we can expect mile after mile of flat uninteresting landscape with few physical landmarks, making the daily march even more of a challenge for us…fantastic!
Bedbugs and Blisters 
You did make me laugh, the airline lost your pole. Well it was bound to happen some time as you forgot it on occasions all by yourself. As the walk this week involves contemplation, poor Richard, like me he thinks it’s good to talk, so it’s a shame I am not with you we would of had a great laugh. Why would you want to walk in silence.
Chicos, this week I will set you a daily challenge, this must be forfiled and will vary in degree of enjoyment, I feel like Ricky Gervais and you are three idiots abroad ha ha ha. Each evening I will whatsapp you with the next days challenge, if you have performed well the previous day, the next task may be more enjoyable. Photographic evidence will be required.
Have fun.
Geoff
Who is a happy bunny now his pole is found. Now I don’t want you to think I am tight but the Hostal sounds right up my street apart from dodgy old wine. I look forward to getting the answers for today’s challenge which, I am sure you will achieve. You must remember, like An Idiot Abroad I will know if you are telling fibs.
I have been thinking about tomorrow and can only say its called ‘ up close and personal ‘, so chose your participants carefully as I am sure your noses will be closer than you would like to some. I am going to have fun with you. Ha ha Geoff