Google Survey – “Destination”
warm glow of what the French call
“Joie de vivre” or the “joy of life”.
The population density for the en-
Within Northern Spain both the
tire UK, including it’s four countries,
region of Cataluña in the east and
is 278 people per square kilometre,
the Basque region in the west share
data from the same source reveals
a common desire for independence
a corresponding 122 and 95 people
from the governing restraints of
per square kilometre, for France and Mother Spain.
Spain respectfully.
Both peoples have their own
I like to seek out the quiet backwa- languages, cuisine, traditions and
ters when holidaying and this data
customs making them extremely in-
confirms the abundance of opportu-
teresting and enjoyable to visit. The
nities for peace and quiet during my
Catalans celebrate firework festivals
motorcycle trip.
known as “Correfoc”, meaning "fire
I would describe France as being
run", where villagers dress as devils
enormously accessible and easy to
and ward off evil spirits by dancing to
travel through. The rural roads are
the beat of local 'gralla' drums within
well maintained and extremely quiet. the narrow village streets under the
Both supermarkets and campsites are scattering sparks flying from whirling
clean plentiful and welcoming.
overhead fireworks.
Most importantly, even the most
The Basques favor their fiesta of
isolated village restaurant will loving- “running with the bulls” most notably
ly serve food of a true “Gastronomic” Pamplona's famous Fiesta de San Fer-
standard; thus, ensuring the weary
min where the locals and tourists are
traveller will retire to bed with a
chased through the cobbled streets by
TRAVERSE 43
confused and bewildered bulls who
ultimately find themselves in the “Pla-
za de Toros” bullring, meeting their
demise at the sword of a matador.
The tiny principality of Andorra
is another contrast within it’s dense-
ly populated main valley, housing
countless commercial businesses
and tax free shopping opportunities,
should the need arise to purchase the
latest must have electronic gadget,
this is the place to visit.
Google Survey – “Activities”
I enjoy what used to be called “The
Great Outdoors”; mother nature,
mountains, forests, rivers, lakes, quiet
local restaurants, bars and camping.
Combine these pleasures with a
motorcycle, quiet twisty roads, miles
of dirt trails and I’m a happy bunny.
The off-road dirt trails of the
Spanish Pyrenees are extensive,
unrestricted and extremely quiet. It