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The journey of Sergio del Molino (Madrid, 1979) has been a blend of journalism and literature. More than ten years have passed since his first literary publications, with remarkable successes such as "Empty Spain," the work that named this phenomenon in the rural world. He also boasts extensive experience in media outlets such as Heraldo de Aragón, El País, and Onda Cero.
Now, this journalist and writer joins VIAJAR as a columnist, but first he shares insights about his travels and those other destinations he has landed in.
When thinking about his childhood, what are his most memorable vacations?
We only traveled to see family, who were spread out across Spain. Summers in Bubierca, my grandfather's village, and Christmas in Barcelona, in the Sants neighborhood, are perhaps my first travel memories.
What was the first trip he took without his parents?
To Mallorca, for a school trip. A horror that almost killed my desire to travel forever.
If he didn't live where he does, which city would he like to live in? Why?
In Cedeira, in northern Galicia. It's where we've spent the summer for a while now, and at the end of August, I always fantasize about staying there and watching it rain all winter.
What destination would he like to go to if he had the time and/or money? Why?
To Tristan da Cunha, because I am fascinated by remote overseas places. It is one of the most inaccessible islands in the world. I would love to see how a handful of people live at the end of the world. Additionally, its capital and only settlement has a pretentious and beautiful name: Edinburgh of the Seven Seas.
Which tourist destination seems the most overrated? Why?
New York, because it is hardly a city anymore; it doesn't differ much from any shopping center near your home, and it's impossible to get a coffee without taking out a loan.
What is his favorite spot on the planet? Why?
That's easy: my home, especially after a long trip. I don't think I need to elaborate on the reasons.
Has he ever taken a trip inspired by a book, movie, or album?
No, but I have wondered if I would find La Maga in Paris, searched for the Aleph in the San Telmo neighborhood of Buenos Aires, and stayed at the now-defunct Pacific Sands motel in Los Angeles, which appears in many movies.
What is his favorite mode of transport? Why?
The car, driving myself. Because I really enjoy driving and love to stop and take detours along the way.
What is the strangest purchase he has made on one of his travels?
Some terracotta phalluses, replicas of pre-Columbian erotic art, at the Larco Museum in Lima.
What cannot be missing from his suitcase? Why?
Books. The idea of being alone in a hotel with nothing to read stresses me out.