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I would consider myself more of a hiker than a walker. I like multi-day outings with a backpack and the necessary gear for the hike. Although, I've always been a biker and have rediscovered the fun and benefit that comes from two-wheeling trails. Not too mention how much farther I can travel...
Same here. My poles saved me more than a few times on my camino, and I was 49 when I did it. I highly recommend them to all regardless of age or level of fitness.
I agree with you that the descent from Alto de Perdon was tough. I saw a group of young kids-(probably a running club)- jogging down it. That bit of trail contained rocks that looked like they came from the depths of hell. Now that I remember, getting to Zubiri was tough as well. Totally forgot...
I used a Hyperlite backpack that I was able to take the internal structure out and and make it foldable. I grabbed all of my gear, plus my folded pack and jammed that all in a carry-on suitcase to avoid checking it in. Once in SJPP, I used Express Bouricott to forward my suitcase to a hotel in...
This is not THE reason...but definitely a good reason to use hiking sticks on a camino. Whether it's dogs or people-use them to keep distance between you and a threat, maybe bang them together and if need be...whack the bejesus out of anything that attacks you. As far as speaking to a dog...I'd...
I didn't want the distraction. My thoughts, observations, experiences and surroundings kept me entertained. The camino was great for unplugging and escaping all the noise.
I did the CF in 2019. I was super anxious while waiting for my departure date, trying to read up on all things camino. I probably watched every YouTube video on the subject at the time. I finally arrived in Madrid and stayed at a place near the airport-(Adolfo Suárez Madrid–Barajas Airport)-...
Rest and relaxation can go far in helping to lift your spirit. I had a tough day once and had a "ready to go home" moment. Once I got into town and checked into an albergue...I showered, washed my clothes and hit the local watering hole. I sipped on a Cubata while transferring my camera images...
I used the Brierly guidebook for the CF. I thought it was great. I used an app to keep me on track, but the guide book was awesome at the end of a day, after I'd showered and hit the local watering hole. I'd plan how far I wanted to hike for the next day; regardless of where the stage may end. I...
Here's my two cents. I, not some stranger...
planned MY camino,
purchased all the necessary hiking gear,
paid for my plane ticket to and from Spain,
made hotel reservations,
paid for a train ticket,
paid for a bus ticket, etc, etc, etc...
therefore, I'm not at all concerned about some...
I wore 2 exact pairs of Columbia quick dry pants that zipped off into shorts. I kept my passports-(pilgrim and travel), in a ziplock bag in my left zippered pocket on thigh. My wallet in my left front pocket and my phone in my right front pocket. Never had an issue from SJPP to SDC. Used a Sea...
I suggest you arrive in SJPP, if necessary-take care of any last minute preparations-(luggage transfer, purchase forgotton gear, snacks, etc.) and enjoy the little town. Start fresh early next morning and enjoy the cool crisp air and quiet countryside. Buen camino. :)
I heard a few horror stories regarding checking in backpacks. Most people don't have issues, but one person posted a picture of their backpack which got totally destroyed/shredded. That was enough for me to decide that I'd carry it on instead. I folded and packed my empty backpack, and all my...
1. Start early. It's nice and cool in the mornings.
2. Bring plenty of water.
3. Wet your buff and wear it on your head under your hat, or around your neck.
4. Get this or something similar to attach a "short" hiking umbrella to your backpack's strap. This will free your hands up. Trust me, it...
Prayers to John and his family. I found his CF guide to be outstanding and invaluable. I treasure his guide as a keepsake of my first camino in 2019. God bless him and all those dear to him.
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