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Turns out that you can rent bowling balls at the Bowling Rioja in Logrono. So, it was a complete waste of time to pack mine over the Pyrenees. Who knew?
While I have seen pilgrims desperately sprinting backwards up the Camino trying to get back to the café where they left their waist pack on the hook in the bathroom, I have never seen a pilgrim furiously sprinting backwards up the Camino to retrieve their pants. As such, I highly recommend...
Here is the problem with your very valid question. People who only carried Brierley will tell you that the only guidebook to carry is Brierley. People who only carried Village to Village will tell you that the only guidebook to carry is Village to Village. And people who did not carry a...
On one Camino I came across a woman with seven suitcases. She needed seven suitcases to be sure that she had a different outfit for everyday. She explained to me that she would "just die" if her friends saw her wearing the same thing twice in her pictures.
I would like to take this opportunity to remind pilgrims that those people who often are referred to as not being "real pilgrims" (i.e. people staying in private rooms instead of albergues) have outlets galore in their rooms. I'm sure they would more than happily allow you to plug in your phone...
First time pilgrims pack about 5 pounds of fear in their backpacks. The albergues from SJPP to Pamplona are littered with things that people thought were essential but soon realized were complete folly to pack. You should pack for the best case scenario. If necessary, you can buy your way out...
Can you put a SIM card into your US phone while in Europe? Sure. But are you prepared to have your cell phone number changed to a Spanish cell phone number? Do you have the time and inclination to contact everyone in your phone to tell them you new cell phone number? And are you going to...
I have walked that stretch in October and November. I took light gloves, a light stocking cap, a balaclava, a fleece and a rain jacket. In the early mornings (before the sun was up) I found it necessary to wear the gloves, cap and fleece. After a while, the gloves came off. By mid-morning...
They have these totally new things along the Camino called "stores". You can walk in and purchase things you need. You don't need to bring 10lbs of fear in your backpack.
The people of Spain have been hosting pilgrims for over 1200 years. They know what you need and they are prepared...
Here is the view from the balcony of the Royal Suite. Again, it's the only room (or in this case rooms) on the main square. After all, if you are the King then you not only get the best view--you get the only view.
The pictures on their website do not correspond to the suites discussed in the article. The Royal Suite at the Parador is the only suite--or room for that matter--that faces the main square/Cathedral. Here is a picture of my wife standing on the balcony of the Royal Suite. The front door to...
There is a difference between bringing a cell phone for emergencies and walking down the Camino mindlessly chatting with someone 5000 miles away and literally not seeing what's around you.
I too must work while I'm on the Camino. I'm self employed without any employees. As such, I'm mindful...
This thread is living proof of why none of us should answer the "what kind of pack should I buy for my Camino?" question with anything other than, "the backpack that a professional recommends for you after you've been measured and properly fitted." I want to scream when that question is...
This might be a good time to remind everyone not to make fun of those pilgrims who check into private rooms at albergues or at hotels. Behind those locked doors are three or four power outlets. If you treat people staying in private rooms as "real pilgrims" they just might let you safely and...
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