2023/4 Winter Trip - Day 72 - 09/01/2024

Can’t believe we have been on Camping Arena Blanca in Benidorm for 6 weeks !

It has been quite an emotional time for us.  Over recent years we have struggled with Christmas and New Year, as so many people have passed away during this period and we find it difficult to get fully into the Christmas spirit.

This year has been particularly difficult as a close friend of ours became ill just before we left for our winter trip. She was constantly on our minds and we were hoping everything would be ok.  However, that was not the case, and she passed away after only a few weeks.  She was such a beautiful person, with an incredible personality, a wonderful smile and an infectious laugh.

We were so sad not to be able to give her husband a hug, but did manage to watch the funeral service on-line - so grateful we were able to do that.

When we first decided to go travelling, it was because after losing so many people, we asked ourselves what is life all about.  Our friends had made plans and they aren’t to be anymore.  So, after hearing the news that she had passed, we were so sad, and fell into a bit of a depressive state, and not really appreciating how lucky we are, and had to drag ourselves back out and get on with what we had planned and enjoy our time here together.  It really does bring home to you to make the most of life, none of us know how long we have.

We love you Jackie x

So despite having such a mix of feelings deep inside we put on our smiles, did what we could and managed to get out and about.

We loved our cycle rides along the sea front, after negotiating some roads, but this has really helped me with my confidence riding a bike.  As a child, I had no fear, but as an adult, I have more fear and am more aware of the consequences !

We also had some lovely meals out.  We were introduced to a local Nepalese / Indian restaurant in Albir, by Carolyn and Alan, which was delicious, We ended up visiting it 5 times, having different curries each time.

We also managed to find garlic prawns in a restaurant on the seafront, on one of our last days here - and they were equally gorgeous 😋

During the evenings we frequented the local bars and of course the campsite bar. I don't have so many photos from the evenings, but I guess that's a good thing 😊. Here are some of the local artists we listened to and also a photo of a blind man (Ben) we have met on our previous visits. He and his wife are a lovely couple, and he sings karaoke, whilst his wife stands behind him wispering each line into his ear - amazing !

On my birthday, I even had a robot sing to me whilst delivering a birthday cake, and then the campsite bar sang to me too later, after I had my complimentary birthday drink.

Finally, a selection of photos when we have been out and about - it has been beautiful. We have been so lucky with the weather, particularly the sunrises and sunsets.

We have done so much reflecting during our time here, laughed and cried, and despite everything, we have had an amazing time, met some lovely people and love our life 🥰

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