Laura and Alec are nowhere to be seen

 We are going down…. From the highpoint on which stood the 18th century Castell de Sant Ferran  https://www.castelldesantferran.cat/en/ . Zoltan experienced what many do when trying to engage with Spanish History. ‘Totally dissapointing! We (and seen a few other tourists as well) went up on a Wednesday, on which it's supposed to be open according to the sign on the gate, yet it was shut with no further explanation what's so ever (nor a note on the bigger sign to say don't bother)... It was rather windy that day, so maybe they kept it open because of that, but still, that's no excuse for not providing any information…’




Down we go, through the suburbs and down some steps and by the railway terminal.  I suspect people rarely get full ‘Brief Encounter’ on stations unless they are on heritage lines. I, for one, never felt the need to give Rugby station a full five for being the place where, on Fridays, I awaited my beloved.  Maxi Minimalist sums it up in a three star functionalist way.  ‘This is a large, cavernous train station for what seems to be a secondary destination. There is an Alsa bus stop just outside, nearby the taxi stand. The ticketing office runs efficiently thanks to numbered tickets and an helpful assistant. Travellers have to go a boarding and security procedure before they are allowed to the designated platform. There are a handful of stores, including Tim Hortons. It costs 1 euro to have access to the bathrooms that are clean and sanitized by a dedicated staff.’





Victor was grump y yesterday.  ‘It's the worst station I've ever been to. The commuter train staff are also very rude, and they charged me a euro to use the bathroom. Go by plane or bus.’  Blazej was better minded six years ago.  ‘Very good experience. It’s nice, clean, all the information is in English too. Railway staff also speaks English. Trains are clean and on schedule. Really great way to travel across Spain. Tickets prices are more then attractive. Inside the building you have a choice of cafes, restaurant, newsagent and few cash machines.’



Maybe we should go back to 1945.  ‘This can't last. This misery can't last. I must remember that and try to control myself. Nothing lasts really. Neither happiness nor despair. Not even life lasts very long. There'll come a time in the future when I shan't mind about this anymore, when I can look back and say quite peacefully and cheerfully how silly I was. No, no, I don't want that time to come ever. I want to remember every minute, always, always to the end of my days.  The loos cost 1 euro but the staff were nice.’ Laura.




We will march to the sea!  Down we go, down the Avenue Oscar Espla.  Oscar who I hear you cry! Going on, it will do you good.  Born in Alicante in 1886. He was a composer who won international prizes, left Spain in 1936, returned in 1950 . He died in Madrid in 1976.  Here is some of his stuff https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h_RbKVrQ3pU&list=PL0u9t9qeE5dKHjY4FywxIEYMSRc6nShK9 .



We need a drink.  The Bar La Cantina del Puerto is sufficiently docklands for us to feel all nautical.  It opens at weekdays, apparently at 12.06am till 5pm.  JJ liked it ‘a month ago Good home-cooked food, well served, and at affordable prices. I've eaten at La Cantina del Puerto several times and always leave happy. It's a great option with excellent value and outstanding service. The food is good, fast, and affordable. If you have to eat in the Port of Alicante due to work or studies, this is a highly recommended option.



We are lost and mournful and looking into the glittering water and must await for tomorrow for new adventures.






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