Travelling with teenagers

[aliciag56]

It won't be for another year that I could go, but if I can I'm thinking of inviting two 17-yo boys I'm close to to join me. I understand that to travel I would need parental authorization, etc. However, what about accomodations on the CF? specifically, if we're in a relatively small village, and they're ok with sleeping in abergues, and I need a good night's sleep close by/next door in a pensione, would that work? they're both mature, respectful kids. Thanks for any insight.

 

[Deleted member 67185]

It won't be for another year that I could go, but if I can I'm thinking of inviting two 17-yo boys I'm close to to join me. I understand that to travel I would need parental authorization, etc. However, what about accomodations on the CF? specifically, if we're in a relatively small village, and they're ok with sleeping in abergues, and I need a good night's sleep close by/next door in a pensione, would that work? they're both mature, respectful kids. Thanks for any insight.

Given that you are the only one who knows what these kids are like, how trustworthy they are, and their dependability to carry out instructions, you are in the best position to answer that portion of the question. If you are wondering if an alburgue would allow such an arrangement --- the teens to be left alone without a supervising adult on the alburgue premises --- then my guess would be that any such policy would be individual to each alburgue's discretion.

 

[aliciag56]

Given that you are the only one who knows what these kids are like, how trustworthy they are, and their dependability to carry out instructions, you are in the best position to answer that portion of the question. If you are wondering if an alburgue would allow such an arrangement --- the teens to be left alone without a supervising adult on the alburgue premises --- then my guess would be that any such policy would be individual to each alburgue's discretion.

thanks. yes exactly wondering about albergue rules, but you're right it might be individual.

 

[Mike Savage]

There may also be other considerations with traveling with minors that you are not related to. I would make sure to have written permissions for travel with them and for medical care decisions should they need it.

Buen Camino!

 

[jo webber]

Having raised boys .... plan on getting a good nights sleep on your own when you are someplace you can rent two rooms, possibly adjoining.

And have them each carry enough food for snacks (every half hour) in their own packs. lol

 

[shefollowsshells]

When I read your subject line I assumed these were your kids and wanted to say, "yes" assuming your question was can they do it etc...
I have walked Le Puy to Muxia with five of my six kids this past Fall and they ranged from age 9-17, it was a dream come true.
However your question was not that...it asked how it would be to have them sleep elsewhere than you and I personally do not think that a great idea.
On my first Frances there were activities in some of the auberges that a 17 year old could be influenced by and even if not their parents need to be made aware
of that in my opinion. I am far from a prude and my kids have seen a lot in their young ages, on the Norte we were feet away from a man getting CPR performed on him
and obviously not able to be brought back, they handled it fine...
I think staying where they stay at night would be part of the adventure and would totally recommend the trip if you entertain that. I would not if you don't.
I do agree with the poster who recommended paying for a place for all of you, and just you all every once inawhile.

 

[aliciag56]

When I read your subject line I assumed these were your kids and wanted to say, "yes" assuming your question was can they do it etc...
I have walked Le Puy to Muxia with five of my six kids this past Fall and they ranged from age 9-17, it was a dream come true.
However your question was not that...it asked how it would be to have them sleep elsewhere than you and I personally do not think that a great idea.
On my first Frances there were activities in some of the auberges that a 17 year old could be influenced by and even if not their parents need to be made aware
of that in my opinion. I am far from a prude and my kids have seen a lot in their young ages, on the Norte we were feet away from a man getting CPR performed on him
and obviously not able to be brought back, they handled it fine...
I think staying where they stay at night would be part of the adventure and would totally recommend the trip if you entertain that. I would not if you don't.
I do agree with the poster who recommended paying for a place for all of you, and just you all every once inawhile.

thanks!

 

[notion900]

I think this would be the kind of thing that 99% of the time would be fine, but if something goes wrong, would be very bad. The boys at 17 are under the legal age to be adults in Spain, and you are not their parent. If one of them did something illegal (even accidentally) or went missing, who is responsible? I would wait one more year until they are legal adults before walking, then you can relax and walk as equals.

 

[CaminoDebrita]

It won't be for another year that I could go, but if I can I'm thinking of inviting two 17-yo boys I'm close to to join me. I understand that to travel I would need parental authorization, etc. However, what about accomodations on the CF? specifically, if we're in a relatively small village, and they're ok with sleeping in abergues, and I need a good night's sleep close by/next door in a pensione, would that work? they're both mature, respectful kids. Thanks for any insight.

I must agree with Notion900. However, why not take one of the parents with you?

Many great points have been made here, and I have seen a lot of teens on Camino, but you would have to be a pretty good mother hen. There are some hazards.

Or, are you bringing them to protect you? (and if you are paying for all of their accommodations, etc., this is a cool deal for all of you). Having two boys (friends) together certainly "looks" better than bringing one boy (who is not related). That would get a few raised eyebrows, says the teacher in me.

I think that if you went late in the year (fewer pilgrims) it might be better, but I would never leave minors to whom I am responsible unattended--never.