SPAIN
It was exciting to reach Spain. I have my base and many friends here. I speak the language, and understand the coffee. The North Spanish coastline is also majestic. Lush greens and snow-capped mountains. Norway-esque. On the right day, it is a splendid coastline to sail. But it is also unprotected, and orientated to receive a battering from the Atlantic. The sea state near the open coast is almost without exception confused and choppy as swells bounce off the cliffs; and the wind is fickle or absent at most potential stopping locations. It is said that – in response to unfavourable winds – the wise sailor doesn’t despair, but adjusts his sails. Tired of that, my approach these days was to head for the bars to sample the excellent tapas and pinchos…
The reality of the super-uncomfortable days is that these are also the ones when nature is most likely to reveal herself. Bottle-nosed dolphins and a lone sunfish are the recent observers / observed. It really is true that the hours of effort from continuous balancing dissolve away with these encounters. And in Spain too – as has been the case in every country I have touched – the ‘family of windsurfers’ has done everything it can to support this adventure. Multiple offers of whatever is required or might be appreciated: food, lodgings, sightseeing tours, washing, medical attention, tools, repairs. And beyond that, the wider ‘family of the sea’ – yacht sailors, rowers, fisherman, and those who just gaze out – have also shown great kindness. It’s a very humbling experience this. It is also rewarding: experiencing directly, or being a catalyst for, the making of connections. That’s a positive tonic, particularly at this time of divisive Brexit folly in my own, sadly troubled, UK.