Beth thank you so much for your support here. I really appreciate it. I have to say that one of the reasons I wanted to be in Spain has been to experience more of the sea. When I lived in Poblenou a few years ago, it took me ten minutes to walk to the sea. I would walk the promenade along the beach and take in the beauty of the waves nearly every day. This year, living more centrally as I do in Barcelona, I have not had the chance to have a relationship with the sea. The moment I arrived in Gijón however, all of that changed. I felt instantly transformed by the salty breezes and the presence of the water. Thank you for sharing in my experience at the promenade and for your readership. I so appreciate your kind feedback.
Wow, Gerry. This is such an amazing, beautifully written post about your visit to Gijón. Your words about the sea lulled me into a feeling of relaxation, and your description of every sight and flavor and sound transports me to this city. I love so much about this post. Your description of mouth-watering treats and amazing sights are incredible -- as are the amazing photos.
I especially love this line: "What I discovered is that perhaps el mar is asking all of us in Gijón, to make a habit of pausing to listen more solemnly, to not be so hurried and intent on reaching our intended destination, and simply allow everything to just naturally and spontaneously unfold as it’s meant to." This celebrates the moments to be savored in such an adventure rather than to be rushed through life. And it's clear there is much to be savored in this wonderful gift of a city.
I also enjoy how you point to spontaneous travel as an important component of any travel experience. I admire your friend Nuria's attitude toward following her intuition rather than a to-do list of all what she "should" see. Part of what makes you a distinctive travel writer is your eloquent descriptions, as well as your spontaneity. Thank you for taking the reader on this adventure!
What a delight to read your post about your first visit to Gijón!
It transported me back to that beautiful city that captivated me from the moment I arrived a few years ago.
You’ve perfectly transmitted the essence of Gijón: its vibrant streets, the warmth of its people, and that special atmosphere by the sea. Every corner has its own story, and it seems you let yourself be enveloped by that unique magic.
Your post made me remind about my own experience, and I’m so glad to know that you were able to enjoy everything Gijón has to offer. From its breathtaking views to its delicious cuisine, it’s a place that leaves an indelible mark on the hearts of those who visit.
I’m sure, just like me, Gijón has won a special place in your heart forever!
Congratulations on such a (in my humble opinion) well-written and heartfelt post, with tips on your favorite places so that you don't feel lost in the city when you arrive, and from there, be spontaneous once again.
Hello Javier, thank you so much for your comment here! I had no idea exactly what I was going to encounter in Gijón but I can tell you that I immediately fell under the spell of the city. Certainly the hospitality of the lovely people was one factor, but also the spirit of the environment, warmly welcoming at every turn! I also had the privilege of having a terrific friend guide me through some of the essential places to visit and eat. You know that makes a huge difference! I want to say that I’d like very much to return next year and visit the countryside. I’m glad you resonated with the essay and that it reminded you of experiencing the beauty that is always calling us back to Asturias.
Beth thank you so much for your support here. I really appreciate it. I have to say that one of the reasons I wanted to be in Spain has been to experience more of the sea. When I lived in Poblenou a few years ago, it took me ten minutes to walk to the sea. I would walk the promenade along the beach and take in the beauty of the waves nearly every day. This year, living more centrally as I do in Barcelona, I have not had the chance to have a relationship with the sea. The moment I arrived in Gijón however, all of that changed. I felt instantly transformed by the salty breezes and the presence of the water. Thank you for sharing in my experience at the promenade and for your readership. I so appreciate your kind feedback.
Wow, Gerry. This is such an amazing, beautifully written post about your visit to Gijón. Your words about the sea lulled me into a feeling of relaxation, and your description of every sight and flavor and sound transports me to this city. I love so much about this post. Your description of mouth-watering treats and amazing sights are incredible -- as are the amazing photos.
I especially love this line: "What I discovered is that perhaps el mar is asking all of us in Gijón, to make a habit of pausing to listen more solemnly, to not be so hurried and intent on reaching our intended destination, and simply allow everything to just naturally and spontaneously unfold as it’s meant to." This celebrates the moments to be savored in such an adventure rather than to be rushed through life. And it's clear there is much to be savored in this wonderful gift of a city.
I also enjoy how you point to spontaneous travel as an important component of any travel experience. I admire your friend Nuria's attitude toward following her intuition rather than a to-do list of all what she "should" see. Part of what makes you a distinctive travel writer is your eloquent descriptions, as well as your spontaneity. Thank you for taking the reader on this adventure!
Hi Gerard!
What a delight to read your post about your first visit to Gijón!
It transported me back to that beautiful city that captivated me from the moment I arrived a few years ago.
You’ve perfectly transmitted the essence of Gijón: its vibrant streets, the warmth of its people, and that special atmosphere by the sea. Every corner has its own story, and it seems you let yourself be enveloped by that unique magic.
Your post made me remind about my own experience, and I’m so glad to know that you were able to enjoy everything Gijón has to offer. From its breathtaking views to its delicious cuisine, it’s a place that leaves an indelible mark on the hearts of those who visit.
I’m sure, just like me, Gijón has won a special place in your heart forever!
Congratulations on such a (in my humble opinion) well-written and heartfelt post, with tips on your favorite places so that you don't feel lost in the city when you arrive, and from there, be spontaneous once again.
Hello Javier, thank you so much for your comment here! I had no idea exactly what I was going to encounter in Gijón but I can tell you that I immediately fell under the spell of the city. Certainly the hospitality of the lovely people was one factor, but also the spirit of the environment, warmly welcoming at every turn! I also had the privilege of having a terrific friend guide me through some of the essential places to visit and eat. You know that makes a huge difference! I want to say that I’d like very much to return next year and visit the countryside. I’m glad you resonated with the essay and that it reminded you of experiencing the beauty that is always calling us back to Asturias.