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I wore layers, like most. Base was a synthetic t-shirt (I'd go merino next time for quickness in drying and odor control), then I had a long sleeved merino 1/4 zip shirt that was used both for warmness when coupled with other layers, and/or sun protection over the Tee), then I had a Kuhl 1/4...
Liner keeps the bed bugs off and keeps the down quilt in place. Plus if you get hot you can push the down quilt to the side of the liner or to your feet. Endless possibilities.
I made it from SJPP to Astorga without issues then developed some painful blisters between my toes from having too narrow a toe box. I've since switched to Altra Lone Peaks and haven't had issues since, though I haven't had a really long multi-day walk since the Camino.
Also, as a way to...
My son and I stayed at the Eslava last May. I really loved staying there. Very nice hosts. They hooked us up for a taxi to SJPdP. Very clean and convenient. A beautiful walk from the train.
Regarding the sleeping kit: I used a permethrin treated silk liner with an ultralight down quilt tucked inside. Cold nights I was under the quilt. Hot nights I would push the quilt to the bottom of the liner. I kept warm and kept the bedbugs in check.
If staying in Albergues you need a towel. I bought a microfiber terrycloth version that was large enough to really work (small ones get saturated before you are really dry). I hung it on the outside of my pack to dry. I attached a picture of me and said towel in Portomarín last June. Buen Camino
I was up to four hours of sustained walking in mountains and flats on both weekend days for a few weeks prior to leaving, plus an hour of walking a steep mountain trail each workday lunch. My philosophy was to loose weight and get in the best shape possible. I also wanted to work out the kinks...
I carried Birkenstock EVA sandals. Great for cruising around towns and for the albergue showers. My boots were comfy, so I didn’t walk in them, but a Korean couple we walked with did the entire Frances in them (with socks). Plus they are inexpensive and very lightweight.
I completed the Frances in June and unsuccessfully searched for a yoga class. I just ended up practicing in albergues, plazas, etc., of course without a mat.
Thank you so much, my Camino friends!!! I appreciate your input! I was able to reschedule my flight to the day before, so we will have a day in Madrid.
So now I have another question: can someone recommend a decent hotel or pension in Madrid? I would love to be in the historical downtown...
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