We'll just stay here

Sonja called me today and insisted on a new blog post. Here it is

First of all, our address for everyone who still wants to send us a Christmas card (maybe the Böbser Storks?): We would be very happy.

                            Camping Ole

                            Partida Aigua Morta, s/n

                            Ap. Correos 69

                            46780 Oliva (Valencia)

                            Spain

First of all, we have extended our stay here. We will now stay until January 31, 2020. The city and cultural program will have to wait until then.

Experienced campers advised us to extend because the good campsites are now fully booked for Christmas. We would have a hard time finding a suitable place. And they know best, many of them have more than 20 years of winter camping experience and that convinced us.

But not only the old campers convinced us, but also our life here. It's like being on a different planet. Detached from the gray everyday life, the sun, the wine, and the good food make us feel a lightness that is hardly present in normal life.

Yesterday was December 1st. We had 25°, blue sky, and bright sunshine. Breakfast outside, then by bike to the city and to the market. There, you are immediately transported into a different life by the light, the colors of the fruits, the smells of the spices, and the bustling people. There is fish and paella, wine, and music and loud voices from every corner. A feast for the senses. We love it and come here every Sunday, we have time.

The dress code is sometimes curious. We, and by that I mean all tourists, prefer to wear t-shirts and shorts or summer dresses. As I said, the temperatures are well above 20°. And what do the Spaniards do? They have winter and actually wear boots, hats, jackets, and still seem to freeze their asses off, wimps.

We are standing in a row on the campsite, three of us. And for those who don't know yet, right on the Mediterranean Sea. First comes the Dane Klaus with his Norwegian girlfriend, then us, and at the end are the Dutch Kees and Cilly. 4 nationalities and all speak German. Our camping friends to the right and left of us have known this place for more than 20 years and spend the winter here regularly. We were amazed when we saw the effort they put into setting up their pitches. They have everything they need stored here at Spanish farmers. They then bring everything to the construction site on pallets on time for the setup. And then it starts.

The entire pitch is covered with special carpets so that the sand is not brought into the motorhome. Various tents are built, at least one of which serves as a kitchen. And then it is furnished with everything the aspiring chef can expect in a kitchen. From the Thermomix to a freezer and, of course, the microwave and ceramic cooktop are not missing. Camping de Luxe at its finest. Holger and I live in social housing because these things are still foreign to us. Who knows for how long, because we have already booked our pitch for next year and have already found a parking space for our trailer to spend the summer at a Spanish campsite. So, it's developing.

Holger has decided to set up our tent. But nobody sets up their tent alone on a campsite. So, several strong men were ready and waiting for instructions. Holger was prepared and had tools and the necessary utensils ready. Michael was not impressed with Holger's tools and brought his own. Tools, his tools are Holger's sacred relic and normally Holger would have already jumped on him, but he remained calm.

Then the Dane came and complained that the number of pegs was not enough and that our pegs were not suitable for this pitch. But he willingly brought a selection from his stock. Holger started to breathe heavily, but remained calm. What can I say, he submitted to the two of them (yes, Holger) and followed the instructions of the two 'professionals'. The tent stands like a 1. The men drank beer and I was very happy that my Holger remained so relaxed during this action. Retirement brings serenity to life.

Otherwise, we enjoy the sweet idleness. Next, we will rent a car and explore the surrounding area, and if I feel like it, I will write another report for you.

By the way, Holger wants to go swimming in the Mediterranean on Christmas Eve. I bet he won't.

Adiòs Amigo/a