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Common wisdom on line is the use of a silk liner. But on two Caminos, both SJPDP to Santiago, around 30+ days, Apr/May and Sep/Oct, can't ever recall seeing a silk liner on a bunk. Every bunk had a sleeping bag. My sleeping bag was a $30 bag purchased online. Held up for two Caminos and...
Bus or train to Atocha Station. Exit Atocha station to the circle where all the buses load and unload. There is a shuttle bus that will take you directly to the airport. Just walk around the circle and you will either see the post that indicates the stop or the bus itself. Make sure to allow...
One backpack and a blue Ikea bag for luggage transfer. A regular size backpack with just the days essentials will feel light. But can also carry everything if you desire.
Skip the Camino walking part. Barcelona, Madrid, Santiago, and other places to visit, would be a better use of your time. What makes the Camino so rewarding is becoming part of the experience. Otherwise it's just a walk in the countryside. Unfortunately from Sarria to Santiago it's not much...
I just point while looking tired and thirsty. Works every time. And always express gratitude. Sometimes gets me a tapa and conversation with the bartender.
If you already own this bag use it. At 800g it is just a tad heavy. I've walked two Caminos, Sep/Oct and Apr/May, SJPDP to Santiago and didn't always need my sleeping bag but on many nights glad I had it. Funny thing, in all the nights in alburges, every bunk had a sleeping bag.
Two SJPDP to Santiago, 2013 and 2023, 30+ days each. Pilgrim's that weren't using apps seem to be doing well. Encountered a handful of pilgrims that felt lost and they were all dependent on apps.
Have you considered using your Camino as a reset to your routine? Instead of writing spend your time listening. Communicate with individuals that you can actually touch in front of you.
Just do it. My response might seem a bit harsh but when you get off the train in Madrid there are so many options, train, bus, taxi, that there is no one answer. If upon arrival one option makes the most sense, take it. In 2023 I was told to use the green bus to the airport so that's what I had...
If I stay home, I'll be driving my speed boat at unreasonable high speeds, guzzling gallons of gas, or going through the desert kicking up tons of dust in my 4X4. So the Camino is a better choice.
You have private accommodations booked. Pack transportation is inexpensive because it is a pick up and drop off service. You leave your item in a designated corner and it is dropped off in a corner. It is assumed that there is nothing of real value worth stealing. It is not a valet type service...
I would caution going to the left. There are a few slightly steep sections that are not that steep but always shaded so they stay damp and very slippery. It looks like you're standing on a smooth sandy surface but really it is rock hard with a thin layer of mud. In addition since it is...
Lions and Tigers and Bears! Oh no! I was more concerned about stepping on snails. I did have a small deer cross my path at a distance. That was special.
Yes. Coin purse was a must have. Also fanny bag with valuables that never, never leaves your person, even in the shower. One more thing. Look closely, Tiny red light flashlight. Enough light to visit the restroom at night and preparing to leave before day light.
Since you have plenty of time, purchase a pair of inexpensive shoes. But one size too big. They will feel and look like clown shoes. When you walk with them they will feel like they are going to slip off, but they don't. What do you think after a few days?
I would plan on arriving to major cities early. Possibly using them for a rest day. But focus on arriving in Santiago with days left over. Then bus tour to Finisterre. I had extra days. Bus to Salamanca. Next to Toledo. Next to Segovia. Finally days in Madrid.
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I'm a proud winner of the daily bed race. Started my mornings at the break of dawn because most everyone else was already up and gone. Had my first coffee with leche at first open bar. Had my second breakfast an hour or so later. Light lunch around noon. Planned on calling it a day around...
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