I don’t know how to tell about our second day in León without turning it into a book. Photos would probably do a better job of it than words.

Janine and I opened the curtains and raised the shutters to see another beautiful, sunny day. Janine noticed pilgrims walking right past our apartment building so she stepped out on the balcony to wish them “Buen Camino!” It took a second shout-out and a lively wave for them to realize where the greeting was coming from. Our little four-story apartment building is right on the Camino, so we don’t have to go searching for it when we leave tomorrow.

We spent 9 AM to 5 PM today wandering around León, stopping for a leisurely two-hour lunch at an outdoor table in the square facing the cathedral. Janine ordered gin and tonic for us, a refreshing drink for a warm day. It was made with one of her favourite gins (Gin Nordés) and served over huge chunks of ice in large wine glasses. Believe it or not, one of her favourite gins is blended with Padron peppers. I would like to try it sometime in Spain because it might be the only place in the world to find this unusual blend. As for me, I made a surprising discovery: I actually enjoyed sardines for the first time! My green salad, topped with very salty sardines and grilled grapes, was simply delicious. 

As we explored Leon, we found ourselves in front of the luxurious Parador Hotel. That’s when Janine said with a look of surprise, “I’m amazed we’re standing here in front of the Parador, and I’m not crying.” I couldn’t have agreed more. Those would be tears of joy, of course, because here we are, spending the day in one of the most beautiful cities on our beloved Camino.

After a couple hours back at the apartment for a bit of a “reset,” we headed out to one of the city’s top-rated tapa and vino bars. Luckily, we arrived before 8 PM which is when the locals poured in, turning the small, hole-in-the-wall spot into a packed, standing-room-only scene. Janine convinced me to try blood sausage which was dolloped on top of a small dish of potatoes. It turned out to be surprisingly tasty. The garlic soup was delicious, too. I’m beginning to be a believer in being adventurous and trying popular local dishes when going to different countries, thanks to Janine. We wrapped up the evening with coffee at the same restaurant across from the cathedral where we had lunch. What better way to call it a day than with great conversation, lots of laughs, and a table with the best view in town?