Cosas de España/Galiza 

The disgraced ex-king is going to escape judicial prosecution – because some of his alleged crimes have ‘exceeded the statute of limitations’. And ‘Others can’t be prosecuted given that, even if they can be proven to have taken place, they dated from before 2014, when he enjoyed immunity thanks to his status as reigning monarch’. However, I believe the Tax Office (La Hacienda) is still going to pursue him for back taxes on his illegal earnings. Maybe.

Those nightclubs open since last week-end . . . Wearing masks across Spain is still obligatory indoors at public spaces when not eating or drinking, although the measure seems to be loosely adhered to by those attending nightclubs. . . Some regions, including Galicia, the Balearic Islands and Catalonia, require nightclubs to ask clients to show proof of immunity. However, there’e been many reports of revellers being allowed to enter clubs without showing any documentation, with many now describing their nightlife experience as the same as 2019, yet having to carry a face mask for the moments when it is obligatory or enforced to wear one.

It’s hard to believe but there are some restaurants in Spain which ban kids. One of these is said to be in Vigo but I can find no evidence of its existence. Though its Facebook page of 2017/8 did indicate their terrace was child free,

Bullfighting is a moribund ‘art form/cultural event’ – never a ‘sport’ – here in Spain. The latest bodyblow to it is the government’s plan to ban under-16s from attending corridas. Of course, should the right-&-very-right-of-centre parties form the next government they’ll immediately reverse this and restore the cash subventions for it.

There’s a program on Galician TV – Luar – which was big when I arrived here 21 years ago. And still is. It’s been described – accurately – as ‘perfect 1970s TV’ – light entertainment in a set consisting of diners at tables in front of a stage. I mention it now only because a recent guest – God knows why – was ex ‘Page 3 Girl’ Samantha Fox. But, anyway, along with the presenter and an ancient Spanish actress, she tried to sing a Galician folk song. All very laudable, if a tad excruciating. You can see it here.

Some potentially very bad news for us . . . A group of the 10 most famous Spanish ‘influencers’ have done the camino together. We now fear that hordes of very young Japanese and Korean ladies will descend on the city next spring. Assuming they’re not so stupid as to come this winter.

As for the camino itself, Google has produced this comprehensive guide, with info on 10 of the 40+ routes to Santiago de Compostela.

Quote of the Day 

Social media has damaged democracy, exacerbated division and harmed children – it’s time for much tougher regulation

Spanish 

A surprise . . . Grogui, from the English ‘grog/groggy’. The Royal Academy:-

1. En el boxeo, aturdido, tambaleante.

2. Atontado por el cansancio o por otras causas físicas o emocionales.

3. Casi dormido.

Not a surprise . .  . Although I’m the only male in the Pilates class of 10, the teacher always refers to us as chicos.

Finally  . . .

I do my utmost to stop moths getting to my cashmere and lambswool pullover but every winter I have to take at least some of them to a seamstress who charges a pittance to have the holes repaired. And then it struck me yesterday . . . Perhaps there are moths in the backroom where she stores her wares. . . .

Note: If you’ve landed here looking for info on Galicia or Pontevedra, try here.