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I walked the Frances last year and found the descents to be more problematic than the ascents. Wondering what the trail conditions are like on the descent to Monistrol under normal conditions? Also, wondering if there are on other problematic descents on the Le Puy to be aware of? Thanks!
Haha. Yes, those first 8 km were a reality check. I remember thinking that I'd heard that everyone cries at some point on the Camino, but on the first day????
If you do happen to pack your poles in an odd shaped cylinder be sure to look for them at the "errant luggage" counter at CDG rather than waiting an hour or so at the luggage carousel. ;-)
Good advice, actually. Random food flies are to be expected when communing with nature. However there was a forested section before reaching San Juan de Ortega where the face flies were really quite aggressive little buggers and a lightweight head net would have come in handy!
"but the majority of the Frances is easy walking."
Except when it is not. We need to portray an accurate picture of the Camino for those planning their first trek. There are several descents that can be somewhat treacherous for those less nimble on their feet. It was on these, many with loose...
There are sites on the internet complete with maps and videos for navigating CDG. There will be photos of the actual signs in the terminals, which of course are mainly in French. These proved to be very helpful last year for this solo traveler.
Upon arriving on Thursday, 9/1/2022, I had a very warm and welcoming reception from the volunteer at the monastery in Roncesvalles. My group was delayed due to a gentleman who had experienced heart issues in the Pyrenees. The volunteer escorted me to my bed/showers and then assured me that she...
You will have good luck in Iceland. You may have to set your alarm for the middle of the night, however!
Haha! I was texting my husband at the time wingeing about being 65yo and being in the nosebleed bunk. Once I looked out the window I realized that it all was worth it!
From my top bunk in Torres del Rio last night I looked out the window to see the Northern lights! My husband says they are predicted for the next week or so. He hasn’t seen them in Michigan yet. Imagine coming to Spain to see the Northern lights. Magical.
I was in your shoes a week ago. I found that the fear becomes excitement and then suddenly back to fear again. Getting on the flight was a sense of accomplishment having finally packed and all so we were back to excitement. Landing In Paris sends one into survival mode so no room for fear there...
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