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Recent content by Jan Runkel

  1. Jan Runkel

    Where can I buy a new iPhone charger? Palas de Rei

    Some of the gas stations have a lot of miscellaneous accessories. We found one there.
  2. Jan Runkel

    Caminha to A Guarda

    The boat ride with "Marco" was a very fun and memorable part of our Camino. I wouldn't miss it!
  3. Jan Runkel

    Primitivo. Vs Invierno?

    OR, if you have the time, walk the Primitivo to Melide. It joins the Frances there, and gets busy. Take the bus back to Ponferrada and walk the Invierno! They're both worth it!
  4. Jan Runkel

    Why so few pilgrims on the Via de la Plata? Article from local website.

    Good choices. You'll love the Invierno!
  5. Jan Runkel

    Why so few pilgrims on the Via de la Plata? Article from local website.

    I'm glad I walked it last spring, but wouldn't do it again. I didn't mind the solitude, but the long - some days over 30k - without ANYTHING, even water - or any place to stop or sit weren't enjoyable. I like the small villages, cafe con leche and second breakfast!
  6. Jan Runkel

    Second Camino Left me feeling Unfulfilled

    If you love the camaraderie, then I wouldn't recommend the Via de la Plata. It is often very solitary with many long stretches. Have you considered the Primitivo? I agree about timing - not very many pilgrims in the middle of winter. And yes, there's only one time for your first time. Reconsider...
  7. Jan Runkel

    Are you a hiker or a walker?

    Agree! I walk in my neighborhood and hike in the mountains nearby. And I don't want to spend more time driving than hiking, either!! I'm very happy with the hikes near me and not always looking for new or harder trails.
  8. Jan Runkel

    Hands up! Where are forum members from?

    North America.
  9. Jan Runkel

    Combining Caminos

  10. Jan Runkel

    Combining Caminos

    In 2021, we walked from SJPP to Burgos, then bussed to Oviedo. We couldn't choose between the Primitivo and the Invierno. So we bussed back to Ponferrada from Santiago and did them both!
  11. Jan Runkel

    Scenic 100km on southern part of Via de la plata?

    I would definitely not recommend starting in Sevilla. The stages are long and not particularly scenic. Start from Mérida or Salamanca.
  12. Jan Runkel

    Via de la Plata in April?

    I walked this year starting in Sevilla April 19. The first couple of weeks were HOT, then it got cold and windy. The terrain isn't difficult by and large, but the stages are long without stops for water or food and no way to make them shorter.
  13. Jan Runkel

    Do your own Camino

    And if I choose to stay in a hotel, that leaves a bed for someone who needs it!
  14. Jan Runkel

    Pack weight question

    Also determine if you can easily reach the bottle as you walk. I can't, so really like the bladder to keep hydrated.
  15. Jan Runkel

    Pack weight question

    I found that it was best to leave behind those "luxury" or "just in case " things. I never really needed them. You can always buy things. Water weight is water weight, bladder or bottle. I like the bladder to keep easily hydrated. You can fill it as much as you need. Buen Camino!

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