I had a great time in Gernika. It was sad to leave, but again, I get sad every time I have to leave a place. By the way, Gernika is the place immortalized by Picasso in his painting of the bombing raids perpetrated during the Civil War. I’m in Bilbao now, so I better start taking it in. There is so much to do. One of my goals when I'm in this area is to visit Santimamiñe caves, well known for their prehistoric paintings. I’m writing from Casco Viejo. It's a very lively neighborhood. Lots of reastaurants and bars. I also hear music being play by street musicians! I also did a little bit of shopping. I normally don’t do this, but it just felt right. : ) Walking through the neighborhood I went by Edificio de la Bolsa (the stock exchange building) and la Sociedad Bilbaína, one of the old-established and most elegant cultural and recreational societies in Spain. Too bad I don’t like gambling, I know that I’m disappointing Alex by not trying my luck at the Casino Nervión. Next time, you have to come with me Alex. Mattie, I thought about you when I went to the Mercado de la Ribera and admired the amazing selection of vegetables, fish and meat!). I cannot imagine what you could produce with those ingredients. I’ve become addicted to Jabugo (Spanish ham), this one of the most typical ingredients of Spanish gastronomy. It’s soooooooo delicious! I had at a restaurant called “Mesón Cinco Jotas”, but apparently one can get in most restaurants. This placed was very busy, so I thought that was a good sign. Talking to an Australian, I found out about Aste Naguisa. This is one of the biggest festivals in the city. It last over ten days. That what Jose at the hostel said. I’m still having a hard time understanding everything people say to me. I’m considering Spanish classes. : ) We’ll see. Back to the festival, it is a celebration of the Lady of Begona. Sorry, never heard about it and you guys probably have not either. It should be a learning experience. This festival is held in August each year and I’m just happen to be here. Lucky me! Until next time