The washing machine is whirling away, I’ve had a much needed shower (and been reunited with the old style gas boilers of days gone by) and the Spanish news is on in the background as I sit down to write this. The news is on so my ear can tune into the Spanish language a little more.

I started my day with what I now consider my Spanish breakfast, 2 coffees and toastada con jamon. I then ventured on a walk from centre of town to location of my new abode (even though I was not moving in till 4 pm) to check out distance on foot and then onto the academy where I shall be working. Took me 10 minutes each way and I was feeling very confident so decided to try a few side streets and ended up going in several circles but as I was not on a fixed timeline who cares.

Weather is perfect for walking. It’s actually very much like the Dry Season in Darwin with lovely days and cooler nights. I am not sure how cool winter will get but I am sure to find out soon enough.

My apartment is on the 3rd floor and there is no lift but that is very normal for Europe. I’m very lucky as it comes fully furnished complete with all kitchen needs and bed linen including flannelette sheets for when the cold weather hits and a hot water bottle plus a cupboard full of extra blankets. I have 2 bedrooms so room for guests but for the moment have got the desk set up there as my study area. Very nice to have space to spread out even though my possessions currently only take up 2 little suitcases.

Lots of shops of all kinds close by where I went to stock up on a few basics for the fridge. I continue to be amazed at how cheap things are and what a great selection of fruit and vegies there is to choose from. I’ll be shopping in the local style buying my fresh stuff every couple of days.

Hopefully with all the walking I have to do and the great fresh produce I won’t pack on too many pounds! Although I did make a blunder at the bakery today as I thought I asked for one roll but instead came home to find four in the bag. It was at that point I realised the sign must have said 4 for E1 and when I asked for one the girl must have thought E1 worth! Oh well, they are delicious with the goats cheese I got from the deli next door – massive slice for E2 which would have set me back about $15 in Darwin.

Michelle