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  1. Charte57

    Overcrowded Camino Frances

    I’m on the Frances right now, it’s not my first CF but probably my last. I’ve noticed albergues are not always asking for credentials, today I met some non pilgrims as did a friend in Castrojerez. Seems some people are searching for bargain travel and they’ve hit the jackpot on the Camino. There...
  2. Charte57

    LIVE from the Camino They are recommending the Valcarlos route tomorrow, how foolish would it be to go Napoleon?

    I’m on the Frances right now, I crossed about 10 days ago and was blessed with a wonderfully sunny day but I’ve talked to others who were not so fortunate. Just a few days ago there was quite a bit of snow and there were some rescues by ambulance. Sounded horrible, also just the day I crossed it...
  3. Charte57

    LIVE from the Camino SJPdP “Completo” tonight!

    I’m in Los Arcos right now, everything is full. I’m having to reserve a few days ahead if I want to go with the main stages. So much for spontaneity. Santiago is also booked up over a month out unless you want to spend over 200 euros a night, I have no idea when I’ll get there so I have two...
  4. Charte57

    Take my vitamins?

    I’ve found vitamin patches on Amazon, a month supply weighs about the same as a sheet of paper. They’re a bit expensive so I wouldn’t use them all the time but they’re perfect for the camino.
  5. Charte57

    What exercises to do to strengthen lower back?

    I also have had some back issues, I’m sure some will disagree with what I’m about to say but for me carrying a larger pack is better. I find the wide waist straps to be very supportive and the pack itself has great suspension. I have an Osprey Aura 50. Yes, its heavier, but I feel better walking...
  6. Charte57

    Rucksack flight bag

    I second the IKEA duffle, that’s what I’ve used several times now and it’s worked out very well!
  7. Charte57

    Taxi to Orisson on Day 1

    Interesting because I’m planning to do the same thing, however I plan to start in the morning. I’ve stayed in that albergue, not at the top of my list. I’m planning on a cup of coffee there and being on my way.
  8. Charte57

    Best 7-day Section

    Leon to Sarria, but take the bus out of Leon to La Virgin. I loved this stretch, beautiful scenery and such special sites: Hospital de Orbigo, Astorga, Rabanal, Cruz de Ferro, Ponferrada, Cebriero and the monastery at Samos. For me this part is the best of the best! And Leon is easy to get to...
  9. Charte57

    Must see or favorite sites

    It’s only cheating if you think it is. People will say things like “it’s your Camino!” Then look down their noses at you for things like taking cabs or not carrying your pack. It’s Your Way! Don’t let the rules and restrictions of others reflect on your walk. Enjoy! Sounds like a great idea.
  10. Charte57

    Granada or Cordoba

    I liked Cordoba but I LOVE Granada. I’ve visited many times and it always feels new. One of my favorite places on the planet.😍
  11. Charte57

    Santiago cake

    That’s the same one I’ve used, so easy and tasty! I substitute orange for lemon. I always thought the cake was dry till I made my own! Who knows how long they sit in the Santiago bakeries. Homemade is SO much better!
  12. Charte57

    Help! Pack too heavy! — CF Sept & Oct — Senior Woman

    I’ve walked several caminos and found it impossible to get to 10% of my body weight, I don’t sweat it anymore. IMO carrying a larger pack is actually a good thing, they offer better back support and suspension which you will come to appreciate, just avoid the temptation to fill it. Also I’ve...
  13. Charte57

    Shin Splints pre-Camino

    I’m also prone to shin splints, my first Camino changed drastically because of them. Like others I highly recommend compression socks, they’re really quite miraculous. I like Sockwell merino, they have a great cushioned sole as well. If you could wait another week or two, get yourself some socks...
  14. Charte57

    Tips for preventing tendinitis

    Over the calf. Good luck!
  15. Charte57

    Tips for preventing tendinitis

    I hope they help you as much as they did me. I’m a big fan of merino Sockwells, they have a nice cushy sole. Buen Camino!!
  16. Charte57

    Tips for preventing tendinitis

    So sorry, I’ve been in your shoes. I had to leave my first camino due to shin splints and tendinitis , I went back to finish a year later and it almost happened again. My whole world changed when I picked up a pair of compression socks in Leon, after that I was walking 30+ km a day with no pain...
  17. Charte57

    Buy a new pack or use what I have

    Lots of good thoughts here, I’m in the use the old pack group. I have a 52 Osprey and love it. Someone made the point of the larger packs having better support and suspension which I appreciate greatly. Also, if I need something in my pack during the day I don’t have to empty half my pack to...
  18. Charte57

    October CF bottoms for women - suggestions appreciated!

    I very recently started walking in compression leggings and I love them! I’ve been a big fan of compression socks for years, I couldn’t have done my caminos without them. I bought a pair at Landsend and also Eddie Bauer, one thing, they are a bit heavier but I feel a few extra ounces is worth...
  19. Charte57

    To check or not check your backpack?

    I guess I like to live on the edge because I almost always check my bags. I used to work for an airline and I still use my benefits which means I’m standby and one of the last on and I absolutely hate searching for storage space onboard. I love the freedom of dropping off my bag/pack, for me...
  20. Charte57

    Live folk music by locals?

    In a bar in Fromista there was a flamenco guitarist, it was wonderful! The locals were doing Palmas and singing, a few of us even danced! Last year in Finesterre there was a band on the street, crazy fun music!

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