My summary for the first week:

What a start to our adventure. A calm ferry crossing, our first 4 campsites being superb. Resting in the first, fishing in the second, luxury in the third and the fourth in Spain overlooking Zarautz Bay with the sun shining and having our first meal outside wearing shorts and t shirt.

With the experience of previous year’s caravanning we have refined our practicalities and each day’s routine is not only easy but enjoyable. Using the walkie talkies for reversing the caravan when on the back of the Defender makes life a doddle. With the noise of the car engine, the length of the caravan and blind spots, semaphore and yelling just didn’t work!

I packed utensils for the kitchen thoughtfully, and not dining out, have enjoyably been able to prepare meals using local produce where possible. We are as organised as anyone could be and I can’t imagine doing this with so much fun and giggles with anyone else.

We’re really impressed how everyone in France and Spain wears face masks everywhere. And I mean everywhere. There is no confusion, if you should or shouldn’t and where. It’s everywhere.

Some campsites are so conscious that they have green (clean)/red (dirty) signs for each of the services, ie loos, showers and washing up areas. It’s simple, go into a green unit and when you leave, slide the sign to red. This means single use everywhere and maximum protection.

So far – this life style suits me.