1~3. Discovering Santiago de Compostela: Day 1~3(Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port, The Pyrenees)

A New Adventure Begins

 

Today felt like the longest day of my life. After a grueling 15-hour flight from Incheon Airport to Paris via Russia, I find myself homeless at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport.

Despite the challenges, there's a spark of excitement within me. Being homeless in Paris, Known as the city of art, marks my first trip abroad. Traveling is often likened to a transformative experience, a sort of rebirth. As I leave behind my usual surroundings for 45 days, I wonder who will notice my absence.

Tomorrow brings another move, so I must prioritize rest tonight to recharge my energy.

I remind myself to remain open-minded and embrace whatever comes my way.

Traveling is about discovering oneself and pursuing dreams...

 

- Paris Charles de Gaull Airport -

 

It's 10:00PM, and the sun still casts its glow over my new accommodation. Today, I reached my destination, Saint Jean Pied de Port. Tomorrow, my soul-searching journey begins. Once again, I feel the thrill of embarking on a new adventure. After spending hours at Charles de Gaulle Airport, I finally set foot in Paris and marveled at its vast plains.

The extreme contrast between the tiny and harsh society of Korea and the beauty and tranquility of Parisian villages astounds me. Perhaps, one day, I'll call this place home of my heart.

 

- Saint Jean Pied de Port -

 

the Pilgrim's Office

 

The Pyrenees... today was challenging from the get-go. Yet, as I traversed through landscapes reminiscent of paintings, happiness found its way into my heart. I've learned the importance of taking breaks; relaxation breeds joy. The breathtaking views and songs enhance the experience. Traveling, I've come to realize, is a key to happiness in life. My only lament is that no camera can truly capture the essence of these landscapes.

I'll cherish these memories into my mind and heart, treasuring them always...

One of my fellow travelers treated me to a sumptuous Spanish meal. (French wine, I discovered, is truly exceptional! I might just become a wine enthusiast.)

Here's to hoping for more encounters with kind souls and meaningful connections.

Buen Camono!

 

- The Pyrenees -

 

For your information,

Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port is a picturesque town located in the French Basque Country, near the border with Spain. Here are some key points about Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port:

1. Location: Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port is situated in the Pyrénées-Atlantiques department in southwestern France, at the foot of the Pyrenees Mountains. It lies on the banks of the Nive River, surrounded by rolling hills and lush green countryside.
2. Historic Importance: The town has a long and rich history dating back to medieval times. It was originally founded as a fortress town in the 12th century and served as an important stronghold along the Camino de Santiago (Way of St. James), a historic pilgrimage route to the shrine of St. James in Santiago de Compostela, Spain.
3. Camino de Santiago: Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port is the traditional starting point for the Camino Francés, the most popular route of the Camino de Santiago. Pilgrims from around the world gather in the town to begin their journey on foot to Santiago de Compostela. The town's cobbled streets, medieval architecture, and historic pilgrim hostel, known as the Pilgrim's Office, create a unique and evocative atmosphere for pilgrims embarking on their pilgrimage.
4. Historic Quarter: The old town of Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port is characterized by its narrow, winding streets, half-timbered houses, and charming squares. The Rue de la Citadelle, the main street, leads up to the Citadelle de Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port, a fortified citadel that offers panoramic views of the town and surrounding countryside.
5. Cultural Heritage: Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port is steeped in Basque culture and traditions. Visitors can explore the town's cultural heritage through its museums, galleries, and cultural events, which showcase Basque music, dance, art, and cuisine.
6. Outdoor Activities: The picturesque surroundings of Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port offer a range of outdoor activities for visitors to enjoy, including hiking, cycling, and fishing. The nearby Pyrenees Mountains provide opportunities for mountain sports such as skiing and snowboarding in the winter months.

Overall, Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port is a charming and historic town with a unique cultural heritage and stunning natural scenery. Whether starting the Camino de Santiago, exploring the old town's medieval streets, or enjoying outdoor activities in the surrounding countryside, visitors to Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port are sure to be captivated by its beauty and charm.

 

The Pyrenees is a mountain range in southwest Europe that forms a natural border between Spain and France. Stretching approximately 430 kilometers (270 miles) from the Bay of Biscay in the Atlantic Ocean to the Mediterranean Sea, the Pyrenees separate the Iberian Peninsula from the rest of continental Europe.

Here are some key points about the Pyrenees:

1. Geography: The Pyrenees are characterized by their rugged terrain, deep valleys, and high peaks. The range is home to numerous mountains, including Aneto, the highest peak in the Pyrenees, reaching an elevation of 3,404 meters (11,168 feet) above sea level.
2. Natural Beauty: The Pyrenees are renowned for their stunning natural beauty, featuring picturesque landscapes, lush forests, alpine meadows, and pristine lakes. The region attracts outdoor enthusiasts, including hikers, climbers, skiers, and nature lovers.
3. Biodiversity: The Pyrenees support a rich diversity of flora and fauna, including endemic species that are adapted to the unique mountainous environment. The range is home to various wildlife such as brown bears, chamois, marmots, and golden eagles.
4. Cultural Heritage: The Pyrenees have a rich cultural heritage shaped by the diverse peoples who have inhabited the region throughout history. The area is home to traditional mountain villages, Romanesque churches, and medieval castles. The culture of the Pyrenees reflects influences from both the Spanish and French sides of the border.
5. Tourism: Tourism plays a significant role in the economy of the Pyrenees region. Visitors come to the area to enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, mountaineering, and cycling. The Pyrenees also offer opportunities for cultural tourism, with visitors exploring historic sites, sampling local cuisine, and experiencing traditional festivals.
6. Transhumance: Historically, the Pyrenees have been an important route for transhumance, the seasonal movement of livestock between lowland and upland pastures. This practice has shaped the cultural landscape of the region and continues to be a part of its cultural heritage.

Overall, the Pyrenees are a unique and diverse mountain range that holds both natural and cultural significance for the countries of Spain and France, as well as for visitors from around the world.