April 25th
Parking lot wake-up calls can take so many forms. Today it was the usual: some dog remembered to bark as its owners took it for a morning walk. Some of the campers are early birds. Since we were right next to the water and dumping station, all the departing campers drove by to refill their water and empty their gray water tanks. There wasn’t much chance of getting more sleep with all that activity.
We had our standard breakfast of bread rolls, coffee, and juice, obligatory cholesterol medication included, without any major debates. We set off with the intention of visiting coastal towns – at least one of them. However, our travel plans changed immediately after we hit the road due to the low battery warning light. “Nature’s call” also prompted us to find a place with functioning restroom facilities. When the battery gauge insisted the battery was in good condition, we prioritized answering nature’s call and simultaneously gained another experience in the secrets of Spanish cuisine. Veering slightly off the highway, we found a cozy little diner. We ordered meals that, even with the best of intentions, couldn’t garner positive reviews… except for the olives, which were excellent!
Upon reaching Algeciras, we found an auto repair shop (ALGERUEDA Driver CENTER) with very skilled and extremely helpful guys working there. They measured the car’s charges and the charging current of the alternator and were strongly of the opinion that the warning light was due to an existing fault in the system rather than any issues with the alternator. They recommended having the lamp checked and repaired. When I asked about the cost of their services, they waved it off and just wished us a good and safe journey! One of the guys had been working (or studying…?) in Kuopio for six months. He really liked Finland and the Finns. Good for us! I gave him my business card and asked him to get in touch the next time he comes to Finland. I still believe that the majority of people in the world are good!
In the evening, we drove to Camping La Bella Vista. It’s a fancy place near the sea (33 € for a camper pitch). They have a swimming pool and everything! We immediately grabbed our bikes and set off to explore the atmosphere of the resort town. Mercedes, Porsches, Audis, and the like were parked in the marina area and elsewhere. A two-kilometer-long promenade passed numerous restaurants and bars. Vacationers strolled around and enjoyed long drinks. Some bars had more or less loud music. There was even a street musician making a living. The waves of the Mediterranean are calmer than those of the Atlantic!
An hour-long bike ride did wonders for the legs, back, whole body – and also the mind. We might have to go for a swim in the sea tomorrow – they had already closed the swimming pool before we got back. I can’t have it all, not even here!
I understand that the average daily temperatures in Finland are starting to rise above zero, so we can say that spring has begun throughout the country. Enjoy the spring because it’s going to be very short. It might just happen that spring is over in a week, and we’ll move straight into summer!
Take good care of yourselves over there!
