Class of 2013

[ornarywomn]

cecelia, I will be leaving Le Puy on the 20th of March. I am certain as slow as I will be walking you will eventually pass by me. I will look forward to watching for you to pass me. I will be pulling a bike trailer, you won't be able to miss me I am sure. I am truly getting more excited every day to this walk.

Buen Camino,
Leslie Edmiston

 

[Mackie]

Hi,

I walked the Camino in 2011 (September) and am planning to walk again in September, 2013. When I walked the Camino In 2011, I took the Camino Frances route. I started in Roncesvalles and finished after 29 days in Santiago de Compostela. I want to do it again because it was such a fantastic experience for me both spritually and physically.

Mackie

 

[suzenripley]

I plan to do the French Way from July - August 2013. I love the challenge this walk represents for me, and I plan to go on my own. From all the posts I have read this doesn't seem to present as a problem for a 46 year old reasonably fit (but I'm sure after - buff) woman.
I will start from SJPP and hope that the warm weather in Perth, Western Australia will be some kind of help when I hit the Spanish summer!
I am so lucky because we Aussies accrue this amazing thing called 'long service leave' - which means that after 7 years of working, whoever you work for gives you 3 months paid leave!! (Its a fabulous story how we came by lsl - linked to the colonisation of Australia). So I plan to spend part of mine walking the Camino. I have just downloaded an app which is going to help me with Spanish (with an Aussie twang), and I have some other travels each side of the walk. Can't wait to explore this site and learn, absorb and read all your sage advice....
Buen Camino

 

[Former member 16722]

Good to hear from you folks. I bought my credential in Trier earlier this year - and a small lapel pin. I was amazed to see casinos in the Mosel Valley, in Paris and in Lyons.

 

[DarBur]

Suzen - good to hear someone else is going to tackle the heat of July/August. I plan on leaving from Canada around the first week of July and heading out from SJPP. Also doing it alone (with some trepidation after reading some of the "security" posts on this forum!)

 

[ACantizzy]

Hello all!
I am planning my Camino for June 2013...it will be my very first, and I would love any and all advice, insights, recommendations, etc. anyone has! I would like to walk from SJPdP to Santiago, but I'm wondering how much time I should realistically give myself. I booked my flight (yay!!) and will be arriving in Spain June 5th, 2013. I will also be doing it alone. For those that have traveled alone in the past: did you have any troubles along the way? Any safety suggestions? I am beyond excited for this adventure and can not wait to begin!
Buen camino,
Amanda

 

[Mackie]

Hello all!
I am planning my Camino for June 2013...it will be my very first, and I would love any and all advice, insights, recommendations, etc. anyone has! I would like to walk from SJPdP to Santiago, but I'm wondering how much time I should realistically give myself. I booked my flight (yay!!) and will be arriving in Spain June 5th, 2013. I will also be doing it alone. For those that have traveled alone in the past: did you have any troubles along the way? Any safety suggestions? I am beyond excited for this adventure and can not wait to begin!
Buen camino,
Amanda

Amanda, I walked from Roncesvalles to Santiago. Half of the way, I walked with a friend and half, I walked alone. No troubles along the way. You will always find pilgrims or peregrinos along the way and all are generally friendly and helpful. The people in the villages are also friendly. Most likely, you will find friends as you walk along the Camino that you will or can walk with....Mackie

P.S. by the way, I enjoyed more the part where I walked alone.

 

[charrita]

Greetings!

I'm planning to start on my Camino in April 2013. I've been feeling a strong pull to start in France at the Caves at Saint Baume, where Mary Magdalene and many women before her found solace. My Spanish is decent but my French non-existant (which hopefully will change), so I'm nervous about trying to start so far off the regular beaten path, even far from Arles.

I expect to be on the Camino for a month to a month and a half, and plan to take my time. I just quit my job and intend to spend the next year traveling, starting with the Camino, and then Germany, Brussels, Sweden, Turkey......

Looking forward!
-Nicole

 

[Deus510]

Hey there fellow Pilgrims,

I am from Berkeley, California and I am planning on walking El Camino de Santiago this coming Sept to Oct 2013. I giving myself about 7 weeks to complete this, as I know I would want to take lots of pictures and everything. I am 27 and working on bettering my overall health before the work. I have not major medical issues, beside being slightly over weight. While wont be a issue by the time of the work, as I am doing P90x Now. :shock:

I am planing on walking that Via de la Plata route. From what I been reading, it is one of the most changelings ones. Which I love, if anyone here has done it and can give me tips. I would really love it. If anyone is looking to walk it in sept from Via de la Plata, please PM me so we can develop a friendship.

 

[Stephen Nicholls]

The VdlP is a beautiful route. I walked from Porto to SdC last April. Go onto my web site and you can download my diary, and also find links to 700 photos taken on the route.
I enjoyed it so much that I am now thinking of walking from Lisbon to Porto maybe next year...

Buen camino!

Stephen
http://www.calig.co.uk/camino_de_santiago.htm

 

[max44]

Hi Suzanne
We may see you on route
My wife Catherine and I intend to leave in the first week of April to do the same route. StJdP to Santiago and probably on to the end of the world as well
We have done this once before and are drawn back to do it all again. If you are interested you can see our blog and see the weather, sites and also Caths diary notes for our 2009 Camino.
Just look up -
http://www.walkingtotheend.com
Hope to see you on the trail -we will have the forum badge on our packs
Safe travels
Ian

I have read your blog. Thankyou. I have read stories of some people venting their bad tempers on others. I think I will stay in hotels now and then. I will be giving the "grumpies" a wide birth. I am going in April to avoid the "tourists"
This trip is to settle my mind from the things I have seen as a combat medic, and have no interest in bad tempered people. Life is too short for that.

 

[shutterbug]

Hi Everyone,
I am from Wisconsin and plan on walking the Camino alone next fall. I have no rush and will just enjoy things as they happen. I'm 48 and a single parent of a fantastic 25 year old daughter and I'm doing this for her so she will always remember her mom as doing something adventurous and to inspire her by showing her dreams do come true with hard work and determination. its nice to have a place to read what others have to say.

 

[tyrrek]

Hi Everyone,
I am from Wisconsin and plan on walking the Camino alone next fall. I have no rush and will just enjoy things as they happen. I'm 48 and a single parent of a fantastic 25 year old daughter and I'm doing this for her so she will always remember her mom as doing something adventurous and to inspire her by showing her dreams do come true with hard work and determination. its nice to have a place to read what others have to say.

You'll have a great time shutterbug. When your daughter inevitably asks 'Mom have you gone crazy?' just be confident that you haven't! Buen Camino and Happy Christmas!

 

[walkingtotheend]

Greetings!

I'm planning to start on my Camino in April 2013. I've been feeling a strong pull to start in France at the Caves at Saint Baume, where Mary Magdalene and many women before her found solace. My Spanish is decent but my French non-existant (which hopefully will change), so I'm nervous about trying to start so far off the regular beaten path, even far from Arles.

I expect to be on the Camino for a month to a month and a half, and plan to take my time. I just quit my job and intend to spend the next year traveling, starting with the Camino, and then Germany, Brussels, Sweden, Turkey......

Looking forward!
-Nicole

Hi Nicole
You sent Cath and I a personal message but I can't seem to be able to reply via the personal message process (it just does up with an error message)
Perhaps if you send me another personal message with another email address I can reply to that
Happy new year

Ian

 

[Christine15]

HI,
We will just miss you we are planning to start on the 7th or 8th September, have started buying/collecting what we need, have to start training when we buy our backpacks. Which will be soon. Oh forgot and learning Spanish.

 

[Rae2607]

I plan to start in SJPDP on September 2nd. Glad to know there will be other friendly folks out there. I chose to do it in September with the hopes of cooler weather, not as big of crowds, and I'll turn 33 on the Camino.

 

[Aussie Peregrino]

Hello all,

After walking the camino del norte and epilogo (Irún - Santiago - Fisterra) in 2010, I plan to go and walk a length of the chemin in France next year. Perhaps Genève or Cluny to Le Puy or Conques. I'd be grateful for any help deciding or making more plans.

I am Australian, 32, an army chaplain ('padre') and student. The camino is so vivid for me still, and it gives me a lot of joy to see all those about to undertake their first steps and to know what wonder awaits them. I hope to rejoin you soon!

Bon chemin.

 

[jeffnd]

Hi folks, I'll be leaving from SJPP on May 27th. That's after a couple days doing all the touristy stuff in Paris.

 

[ClaireD71]

Hello All

I booked my flights yesterday and therefore feel that at this stage, I am enrolled in the class of 2013 at least! Leave Melbourne on 13th March, two weeks with family in Manchester, two weeks at a Spanish language school in San Sebastian then to SJDP. Am I ready? Well, I'm willing, able and enormously enthusiastic. Every moment getting here has been so personally challenging and incredibly emotional...if we cross paths then please excuse my potential bouts of ugly crying ... I'm humbled by this opportunity and so very very excited. First everything...first Camino, first long distance walk, first solo travel... Nice!

Cheers
Claire

 

[tyrrek]

Hi Claire! You'll have a great time. You've given yourself time to get over the jetlag and will speak more than enough Spanish to order a cafe con leche etc. As for solo travel...that's up to you. You'll meet others from the start, but you can still walk alone if you want to. It sounds like your Camino is a very personal one so you'll have to find the right balance...and you will. Buen Camino!

 

[max44]

Well done Claire, well done

 

[ClaireD71]

Thanks for the cheery message tyrrek! So looking forward to meeting people along the way... To clarify first solo travel as in nobody to bug me over the arm rest mid flight

 

[beccawrite]

Hi Class of 2013! My name is Becky. My husband Ron and I will be starting our Camino in April, 2013. We have been planning for about 15 months and have been training with our backpacks for about a year! We are so excited! I am also a little nervous!! Thank you for all your great posts!! Hope to meet some of you along the "Way"! God bless and Buen Camino!

 

[XXXMONKXXX]

Hello my name is joe, I will be making my Camino in late February 2013 .....I would love to get to Santiago on Easyer Sunday!......I hope to meet many fellow travelers I will be leaving from ST Jean and I can't wait!

 

[Al the optimist]

When do you start from where Becks? I start SPdp on 11th May
allan

 

[hal_cpt]

I'll turn 33 on the Camino.

Fantastic! I'll turn 40 on the way (if all goes well of course) - hopefully when we Early-September-starters are getting quite close to SdC

 

[zuderzeewind]

Hello My name is Dirman. I live in Holland and i want do the camino Ingles on 3 -3 -2013 from Ferrol.
This is my first time and also my dream to do the Camino.
any sugestions are welcome!

Un saludo

 

[Hutton24]

I'm planning my first Camino for September. Thinking of starting around the 2nd/3rd of September. Hope to see you guys out there. I have seen that a few of you have bought your credentials already. What are these?
:roll:

 

[Deleted member 3000]

bought your credentials already. What are these?

The credential is a form for receiving stamps (sellos) showing your progress along the pilgrimage, and is necessary for showing that you walked the last 100km and are eligible for a Compostela. They also are required for admittance to municipal and parochial albergues and many of the private albergues. You can get one from a pilgrim association such as the Confraternity of St. James, and in the major starting points on the route.

http://peregrinossantiago.es/eng/pilgri ... redencial/

 

[reg2450]

Hello All

I booked my flights yesterday and therefore feel that at this stage, I am enrolled in the class of 2013 at least! Leave Melbourne on 13th March, two weeks with family in Manchester, two weeks at a Spanish language school in San Sebastian then to SJDP. Am I ready? Well, I'm willing, able and enormously enthusiastic. Every moment getting here has been so personally challenging and incredibly emotional...if we cross paths then please excuse my potential bouts of ugly crying ... I'm humbled by this opportunity and so very very excited. First everything...first Camino, first long distance walk, first solo travel... Nice!

Cheers
Claire

Hi Claire. It seems we may be en route at similar times. I'm travelling with my daughter from Coffs harbour, NSW. Arriving Paris 19th March, pretty much just getting straight on with it. Hope we run into each other. Gina & Georgia

 

[Hutton24]

Thank you for your reply. I know there is no definitive answer to this next question, however, what are your thoughts on walking in May compared to September?

 

[tyrrek]

Thank you for your reply. I know there is no definitive answer to this next question, however, what are your thoughts on walking in May compared to September?

May is beautiful with spring flowers. September has its autumnal melancholy but can still be beautiful. In terms of the practicalities there's not much difference...albergues are open etc. but not the summer rush. Go for May if you can! :wink: Buen Camino!

 

[lea_r]

Hi Everyone! My name is Lea, I'm from the Philippines but have been living in Singapore for the past 6 years. I plan to start my Camino on the first week of May, starting out on St. Jean.

What kind of trainings / preparations are you doing both physically and mentally?

 

[Deleted member 3000]

Lea, show up in decent shape, but the most important physical thing to do is be sure your footwear is comfortable and is well worked in. Mentally, try to start without expectations that will urge you to do things you shouldn't. Have a plan, but be very flexible in following it. If you feel like resting, rest. If you feel like skipping a section on a bus, skip it. The only rule is that you must walk the last 100km to qualify for a Compostela. Every other rule is one you impose on yourself, so make sure that it is a rule that helps you rather than hurting you!

 

[tyrrek]

Hello My name is Dirman. I live in Holland and i want do the camino Ingles on 3 -3 -2013 from Ferrol.
This is my first time and also my dream to do the Camino.
any sugestions are welcome!

Un saludo

Hi Dirman.

Browse the Camino Ingles section on the forum, and also download John Walker's guide from the CSJ website for a donation.

The Ingles is a lovely route but quiet, so don't expect to meet many other pilgrims at that time of year. It's Galicia so be prepared for anything in terms of weather!

Buen Camino!

 

[Al the optimist]

I have to agree with Tyrek, you won't find many people, especially before Bruma, where those walking from A Coruna join. A lovely walk though. I enjoyed it so much this September that when I arrived in SDC I felt compeled to do an unplanned Fisterra walk. There was more company on this stretch, which also had what for me was one of the most wonderful stages after Olveira.
allan

 

[zuderzeewind]

Hello,
Thank you very much for your advices.
I will fly from Amsterdam to Santiago via Barcelona on 3-3-2013 and will stay one night in Santiago because arrive in the evening.

The next day ( monday ) to ferrol and stay there one night and tuesday start to walk.
I found some hotels on /near the route, becuase i prefer no to sleep in de refugios!
Pontedeume = Hotel Eumesa
Betanzos = palacete San Roque
Bruma/Ordes = Hotel Barreiro
Siguero = Hotel Vicente


If you have any idea just let me know, because i am getting nervous now
Dirman

 

[JohnnieWalker]

Dirman

These hotels are all fine. You might consider sleeping in Meson do Vento (near Bruma) at the O Meson Novo or Canaima as a better way of evening out the stages.

John

 

[zuderzeewind]

Dirman

These hotels are all fine. You might consider sleeping in Meson do Vento (near Bruma) at the O Meson Novo or Canaima as a better way of evening out the stages.

John

Thank you John

 

[tyrrek]

Dirman

These hotels are all fine. You might consider sleeping in Meson do Vento (near Bruma) at the O Meson Novo or Canaima as a better way of evening out the stages.

John

Thank you John

Meson Novo is a great, friendly and reasonably priced place too. One of the highlights of my Camino Ingles. Buen Camino!

 

[Deleted member 3000]

Dirman: This site will show you refuges and lodging for each section:

http://www.mundicamino.com/ingles/ruta. ... escription

I stayed in the Neda albergue, but after seeing Fene, wished I had stayed there!

 

[JohnnieWalker]

Dirman: This site will show you refuges and lodging for each section:

http://www.mundicamino.com/ingles/ruta. ... escription

I stayed in the Neda albergue, but after seeing Fene, wished I had stayed there!

I wrote to Mundicamino some time ago as this list is not complete - for example there is no accommodation listed at Meson do Vento. Also some of the hotels/hostals have closed such as the Hostal Alba. However they have not yet updated their information. The information in the CSJ guide is up to date and accurate.

 

[zuderzeewind]

Woow Thank you very much for all your kinds.
I am searching the hotels on booking.com and those hotels ( Hotel Eumesa, San Roque, Barreiro and Vicente ) are on /near the route.
Exciting

 

[Tia Valeria]

Meson Novo can be booked through the hostals booking site.
http://www.infohostal.com/guia/a-coruna/ordes/alojamiento/5850/pension-o-meson-novo.html. The address given is Ordes but it is the hotel at Meson do Vento. There is also more information (in Spanish) and photos here http://mesonnovo.blogspot.co.uk/
Buen Camino

 

[Deleted member 3000]

Is Meson do Vento on the route? My map shows it off-route. The Hostal Alba is on the Ourense route rather than the Ferrol route. Yes, it would be nice if Mundicamino eliminated and added accommodations as the occasion occurs. For example, on the Camino Sanabres, two of the three hotels in A Bandeira are now closed! The CSJ is to be commended for regular updates. If they would start a website to compete with Mundicamino and Eroski, it would be a boon.

 

[tyrrek]

Is Meson do Vento on the route?

It's about a 20 minute walk from Bruma, so slightly off the main route, but has more facilities and is worth the slight detour in my view. Buen Camino!

 

[carryoncouple]

We fly into Madrid on April 10 and plan to begin our Camino in Roncesvalles soon afterward. We have enjoyed the comments and tips on the Camino Forum. Does anyone have advice about the best way to get from Madrid to Roncesvalles?

 

[Tia Valeria]

Tyrrek wrote

falcon269 wrote:Is Meson do Vento on the route?

It's about a 20 minute walk from Bruma, so slightly off the main route, but has more facilities and is worth the slight detour in my view. Buen Camino!

There are shops/cafes/restaurant etc in Meson do Vento. The walk back to the Camino does not involve returning to Bruma but cuts the corner (see CSJ guide) Although the hospitalero in Bruma may send to Meson do Vento for food it might be that you need to walk there (and back) yourself.

Also as the OP is not planning on staying in albergues Meson do Vento will be a necessary stop

Lots more info and comments in the Inglés section

 

[JohnnieWalker]

Is Meson do Vento on the route? My map shows it off-route. The Hostal Alba is on the Ourense route rather than the Ferrol route. Yes, it would be nice if Mundicamino eliminated and added accommodations as the occasion occurs. For example, on the Camino Sanabres, two of the three hotels in A Bandeira are now closed! The CSJ is to be commended for regular updates. If they would start a website to compete with Mundicamino and Eroski, it would be a boon.

Meson do Vento is about 1.5 kms from Bruma - there are blue arrows from the albergue in Bruma painted by the hospitalero. The slight diversion is made up the next day as pilgrims rejoin the route at a different spot.

The Hostal Alba is on the A Coruna arm of the Camino Ingles and has been closed for some time - indeed the route itself no longer passes the hostal.

The CSJ online guides are available here: http://www.csj.org.uk/guides-online.htm

 

[Deleted member 3000]

the best way to get from Madrid to Roncesvalles?

There are buses from the T4 terminal at the Madrid airport to Pamplona at 1045, 1115, 1515, and 1915. From Pamplona you can take a bus to Roncesvalles.

http://www.pamplona.net/VerPagina.asp?i ... 1&idioma=1

 

[Jennybelle]

Hello!

Hi, I'm Jenny.

I just booked my flight from Wales to Paris. I've wanted to do the Camino for some time now. Amidst telling my best friend how wonderful it would be I realised that I had talked about doing and researched the Camino for well over a year but had done nothing about actually going! So, this morning I booked a flight from Cardiff to Paris. I'm not yet prepared, I've not started training and I've got no money as of yet. I can't help but think that this is for some people, the spirit of the Camino. Booking my flight has given me some direction, I have a reason to be motivated. I'm 19 and a full time boatbuilding student. For me the adventure starts well before I catch my plane! Better yet, my best friend is coming too!

We'll be starting in ST J. PDP on 28th June 2013.

One Love. x

 

[SuGardner]

Hi I'm Susan from Chapel Hill, North Carolina. We're planning to walk in June/July 2013. So fun to start the planning process. My husband got me walking sticks for Christmas! We can't wait. This is a transition time for us and we couldn't think of a better place to get away and seek guidance. So happy to be pilgrimming with you all!

 

[bimblingalong]

Hi all
...well it seems appropriate that i finally get round to posting as this wonderful 2012 comes to a close & the exciting unknown of 2013 beckons...
after a 10 day stint from SJPP to Belorado in 2010 I was fortunate to be able to return this year & walk my solo Camino Frances from SJPP to Finisterre ( April 22nd- June 6th)...and WHAT a walk, just incredible in so many ways...my Camino family from both occasions are still a never ending source of support & inspiration...

I am, like so many, completely hooked by the power that this simple but amazing process of pilgrimage has to change us & make us grow & learn..as a result I am planning my next trip for 2013...am hoping to organise voluntary work as a hospitalera along the C.Frances during the busy months of June & July ( any advice/suggestions or placements would be hugely welcome!!)... I hope to meet many forum faces coming through!!
then I will walk in August/Sept ( poss the C.norte/Primitivo).
Meanwhile back here in sunny Perth, I am hoping to create a "Camino" Amigos monthly meetup, for past , present & future peregrinos to meet & share & discuss their experiences....all expressions of interest welcome
Tracey, Perth WA

 

[max44]

Hi tracy,
Sounds great. I live in Perth also. There is a camino group in Perth , But they have a meeting only every few months or so.
Room for two

 

[Hutton24]

Thank you - I think work has decided for me, most likely September. Kate

 

[Sally Gibb]

Re: Class of 2013 - Sarah and Kathleen

Hi, Two Canadians, starting from SJPP March 18. It no longer seems so long to wait!
Hope to meet many of you on the way!

 

[ffp13]

I can finally say that I am walking he Camino This Year!

Happy New Year to all.

Hopefully I will see some of you on the Way late May/early June.

Frank

 

[cher99840]

I don't have an exact date set yet but I am planning on sometime in Sep/Oct.....am reading all I can and planning how/what to pack. I know I want to go from SJPdP but haven't planned travel yet. This is really exciting and I am grateful to all of you who share your experiences. Those of you who have done this before and those of you who share your plans are equally appreciated!

Cherie

 

[Milepost99]

I expect to start sometime the week of Sept 15, SJPdP to Santiago, hope to meet some of you along the way. Happy New Year, all.

 

[Lydia Gillen]

To all of you who plan and hope to walk the Camino in 2013 I wish Gods blessing.

May he be a companion for you in difficult times and a guide a crossroads, your shelter in the darkness and your shade in the hot sunshine. May He fill you with joy and may other pilgrims be a blessing to you and may you also be a blessing to others. May you return safely to your homes renewed in body and spirit and filled with perpetual happiness

 

[XXXMONKXXX]

Thanks Lydia!

 

[Hutton24]

To start from SJPDP, which would be the better city to fly in to from Sydney, Madrid or Barcelona?

 

[Sheesh]

Well, it's done - I've bought my ticket - and I start in Burgos on May 12, which is where I ended in May of 2009, having to return home due to my Dad's illness. In the years following Dad's death I was too involved with my Mom and her descent into dementia to even contemplate when I might return to the Camino. But the thought of returning was always there, simmering below the surface.

My Mom was released from her pain in spring 2012 and after I recovered (somewhat) from that devastating loss, I began to have an interest in things other than wallowing in my misery, and so I thoroughly dusted off my thoughts about returning to the Camino. And yesterday I pushed the "buy now" button on my computer. Thought I better commit before my aging cat gets too feeble for me to want to leave him. :lol:

So I'm hoping for good weather, but something a little cooler than the 35 degree temps I experienced in 2009, and not the non-stop wetness experienced by others in some Mays.

Hey, I have an "in" with an angel now - maybe she can pull some strings!


.

 

[Hutton24]

Sorry, I have read some older forum posts and have got the info. Am now considering Paris as a starting point.

 

[Parzival]

We start July 2nd out of SJDP.

 

[tyrrek]

To start from SJPDP, which would be the better city to fly in to from Sydney, Madrid or Barcelona?

...or Paris. I think it depends on prices, and how you plan to get over jet lag etc. Lots of people seem to get the train down from Paris to Bayonne then get the little one that goes to SJPP. :?

Buen Camino!

 

[rcli4]

That is what I intend on doing

 

[Ampolla]

Will be flying into Madrid on May 16, 2013 and plan to start from either Pamplona, Zubiri or Roncesvalles on May 17. So far on my own, but had such wonderful experiences in May/June 2011 that I know that I'll meet more people. Have to fly back on July 3. Very excited!

 

[susanawee]

I am flying to Madrid from Western Australia, then onto Pamploma.....leaving West.Aust on May 12th......Hope to meet up with some of you along the Road......Wishing everyone God Speed and lots and lots of encouragement. cheers.Sue.

 

[susanawee]

To all of you who plan and hope to walk the Camino in 2013 I wish Gods blessing.

May he be a companion for you in difficult times and a guide a crossroads, your shelter in the darkness and your shade in the hot sunshine. May He fill you with joy and may other pilgrims be a blessing to you and may you also be a blessing to others. May you return safely to your homes renewed in body and spirit and filled with perpetual happiness

Thankyou for this special Blessing Lydia from Susanawee . walking between May and July 2013.....These words will be treasured and thought of as I wander along 'The Way'.

 

[beccawrite]

Lea, show up in decent shape, but the most important physical thing to do is be sure your footwear is comfortable and is well worked in. Mentally, try to start without expectations that will urge you to do things you shouldn't. Have a plan, but be very flexible in following it. If you feel like resting, rest. If you feel like skipping a section on a bus, skip it. The only rule is that you must walk the last 100km to qualify for a Compostela. Every other rule is one you impose on yourself, so make sure that it is a rule that helps you rather than hurting you!

Falcon...thank you for this post!! Occasionally, I get nervous about our journey! I am so excited yet I do feel anxious wondering, "What if I need a break?" "What if I'm not ready?" "What if....." Your post is a great reminder that this is OUR (my husband and I) and we can experience it in a way that works best for us!! Thank you!

 

[supersullivan]

Well the deed is done, I've decided to allow Ryanair the honour of flying me into Biarritz on Wednesday 22nd May 2013 and will be arriving in St Jean that evening, Thursday, weather permitting, will see me gliding easily up the Route Napoleon :wink: and into Roncesvalles. Say hello if you see me, I'll be the Irishman with pale legs smoking small cigars and doubting his sanity with every laboured step.

Buen Camino

Seamus

 

[beccawrite]

When do you start from where Becks? I start SPdp on 11th May
allan

Al...we will be leaving from Roncesvalles April 8...we expect to be in SdC by May 9 or 10.
Buen Camino!!

 

[Lydia Gillen]

, will see me gliding easily up the Route Napoleon :wink: and into Roncesvalles. Say hello if you see me, I'll be the Irishman with pale legs smoking small cigars and doubting his sanity with every laboured step.
God bless you Seamus. I have heard many words to describe the forward movement of pilgrims from one place to another. e.g. stride , walk, run, tramp, trudge, crawl etc etc. But I have never heard of a pilgrim 'gliding' up the route Napoleon. I would love to see you.

May the road rise before you and the wind be at your back.

 

[tyrrek]

I have heard many words to describe the forward movement of pilgrims from one place to another. e.g. stride , walk, run, tramp, trudge, crawl etc etc. But I have never heard of a pilgrim 'gliding' up the route Napoleon. I would love to see you.

I'm not sure how many kilometres you have to glide to get a Compostela. Johnniewalker will advise. :lol: Buen Camino!

p.s. Rebekah will describe it as a stunt Camino, so beware!

 

[Maurice16]

I am planning to walk the Camino in the autumn of 2013. Am presently talking to Pilgrims and trying to learn as much as I can about gear and packing. I have very much enjoyed reading these forums for the insights from the Pilgrims and the new trekkers. I'm 63 and am looking forward to this hike. Spent 33 yrs in the Caribbean and now the El Camino beckons me. I plan to begin my walk at St Jean Pied de Port, France and intend to enjoy every step, every wisp (or gust) of wind, every town, everything! I run, bike, swim, hike so am in good shape. Now it's finding comfortable shoes, socks and backpack to start trekking. Need to learn more about the weather that time of year. Then deciding what to fill the back pack with. Will try to stay below 10% body wt, so that's less than 7.5kg. Perhaps we'll share thoughts on the forum or meet on the road. Buen Camino

 

[supersullivan]

Lydia, I've been practising my moonwalk diligently while hiking in the Wicklow Mountains, if I can do it in saturated peat hags I'm willing to give it a go on the Camino :wink:

Tyrrek, my plan is to glide 100 kms, stroll 100, walk 100, perambulate 100, stride 100, hobble 100, limp 100 and if needs must, crawl the last 100 kms but I will, however inelegantly, arrive in Santiago, leprechauns permitting of course.

Seamus

 

[Pray21]

Hi my name is Trevor from U.K. and I'm planing to do the full Camino the Frances route around the 16 May 2013, I will be walking alone which I don't mind but hope to make friends along the way, I will be 55 and this is my first Camino.

There are two reasons I am doing the Camino the first is for charity and the second is spiritual, will be traveling light just the very basics, got all quick drying gear.

Hope to see you on the journey

Trevor

 

[AndyUK]

Hey peeps, I've been browsing this forum for a few months now and thought that now is the time I may as well say hi!

My name is Andy and i'm from the United Kingdom. I'm currently looking at walking the Camino Frances route around the end of July or the start of August depending on when I graduate. I've taken my first steps already by buying a backpack and i'm in the process of selecting my kit for the journey. So far everything looks to be going OK equipment wise as I've estimated my pack will weigh no more than 6kg with everything in it. I'm contemplating taking a tent however as I've read online that the last 100km becomes overcrowded to the extent that it becomes a rush to get a bed for the night. Any thoughts on this?

Buen Camino!

Andy.

 

[jstepp77]

HI, my name is Jeff, from Arkansas. Will be starting the Camino Frances in early April. Am also wondering about camping gear, I would prefer to camp as much as possible. Any thoughts on this would be much appreciated.
Jeff

 

[Deleted member 3000]

The weight of camping gear will be worthwhile only if you plan to use it very regularly. Wild camping is difficult, but authorities seem to ignore it if it is done subtly. No open fires for sure! Showers and kitchens in albergues will probably cost you the same as staying in them. There is water along the way in villages, but not outside of towns where you likely would camp. You will miss the albergue camaraderie that builds among albergue groups, but you will be able to hang out with other pilgrims during the day, or in the evening if you go to bars and restaurants. Be sure that you want the sort of isolation that you will have if you camp. For some it is perfect; for others it detracts from their enjoyment. Only you know what you really want!

Buen camino!

 

[jstepp77]

thank you for the information. Just trying to figure out the benefit to weight ratio. Will be in Europe for 4 months. may just have camping gear shipped or just buy it after the Camino. Thanks again. I'm really liking this forum

 

[bimblingalong]

Hi guys, i too was a little concerened about the "rush" for a bed for the last 100kms, but in the first week of June, although much busier with pilgrims, I didn't have a problem finding a place, some instances we had to hunt a wee bit, or i think on one occasion the hostel owned phoned ahead to book for us ( one of our party was slighty injured & walking more slowly)....but I didn't wake at 4am in order to be first in & I am a pretty slow walker, so I hope this helps.....I have also a bit of a "she'll be right" attitude, which I think helped.....but i think the tent question comes down to need for solitude & freedom too, as much as weight & security...cheers, tracey

 

[bismith]

Hi Thengel1 and CuppycakeKaren and anybody else from the Vancouver area,
On behalf of the Canadian Company of Pilgrims we will be having a camino meeting in Vancouver in JANUARY. I'm just trying to doublecheck the times and dates and will post again when I get them. The meetings are just caminotalk and sharing. Questions answers, comments from those who have gone, stuff to take, backpacks, boots etc.
Everyone is welcome - both past walkers and newcomers.
I expect it to be at the Fairview Baptist Church which generously provides space. The pastor there has walked the camino. More on this later today I hope.
Cecelia

Hi Cecelia, have you heard anything about the Camino Meeting in Vancouver for January? Brent, Vancouver (May/June 2013)

 

[bismith]

Hi fellow pilgrims!
I'm Lindsey, also from Vancouver (well, suburban Vancouver....) There sure are a lot of us here. I'm a 21 year old uni student who's not in a terrible rush to finish her degree, so I'm off to get more of this so-called "life experience" I've heard so much about...

I just booked my flight! Will be arriving in Spain in late April and starting from SJPP around the very beginning of May... The great thing about it being my second Camino is that I now have friends to visit in Spain before I start!

See you lot there! (and several of you at the meeting Vancouver meeting in January, of course)

Hi Lindsey, I have seen the email indicating the date and time for the meeting in January. Might you have that info?

Brent, Vancouver (May/June 2013)

 

[bismith]

Well the deed is done, I've decided to allow Ryanair the honour of flying me into Biarritz on Wednesday 22nd May 2013 and will be arriving in St Jean that evening, Thursday, weather permitting, will see me gliding easily up the Route Napoleon :wink: and into Roncesvalles. Say hello if you see me, I'll be the Irishman with pale legs smoking small cigars and doubting his sanity with every laboured step.

Buen Camino

Seamus

Hey Seamus, I'm flying the same route the day after you. I may or may not spend an extra night in St Jean (see how it goes). I expect to see you along the journey at some point. I'll be the guy with the perpetual smile on his face.

Brent, Vancouver Canada (May/June 2013)

 

[analoha]

"...We are not islands unto ourselves; what each of us thinks and does affects the other..."

The idea of a solitary trek across a strange land is both exhilarating and intimidating. It's very tempting to plan it completely alone, but then I am reminded of the above quote, so I'm taking the leap; knowing that those I meet along the way will become an integral part of the journey. God willing, I'm planning on walking September/October, 2013; spending a portion of each day trekking in silent meditation; adding a new dimension to my practice, beginning each day with meditation and prayers to prepare the mind, followed by some simple yoga and tai chi movements to prepare the body. Beyond that, fate and destiny lie.

 

[tyrrek]

... beginning each day with meditation and prayers to prepare the mind, followed by some simple yoga and tai chi movements to prepare the body. Beyond that, fate and destiny lie.

Hi Analoha! I'd just recommend advising your walking buddies what your routine is and when you like to be left alone so they don't embarrass themselves or you. Buen Camino!

 

[laellis]

Hello All,

I hope this message finds you well! I plan to walk the Camino in May of 2013. I will have completed my first year of law school and I think the Camino will bring some much needed perspective. My parents are very hesitant about the trip because, as of now, I will be doing the walk alone. I'm a 23 year old woman with limited spanish so their anxiety is to be expected. I had hoped to connect with a few people prior to the trip to ease their mind.

Please let me know if you plan to walk the Camino in May; I would be so grateful for any advice or community pre-Camino.

Kindest Regards,
Leigh

 

[bismith]

Hello All,

I hope this message finds you well! I plan to walk the Camino in May of 2013. I will have completed my first year of law school and I think the Camino will bring some much needed perspective. My parents are very hesitant about the trip because, as of now, I will be doing the walk alone. I'm a 23 year old woman with limited spanish so their anxiety is to be expected. I had hoped to connect with a few people prior to the trip to ease their mind.

Please let me know if you plan to walk the Camino in May; I would be so grateful for any advice or community pre-Camino.

Kindest Regards,
Leigh

Hello Leigh, I am starting out from St Jean PdP on 25 May 2013 by myself as well - first timer. There is a FAQ section has an area that has many responses about walking alone - suggest you have a look at this, better yet, read it with your parents. My take on the replies are that one is very really alone on the Camino unless they want to be.

As for limited Spanish - yup that's me alright however I have taken heed of all the advice on picking some Spanish prior to leaving by downloading onto to my iPod from iTunes podcasts called "Coffee Break Spanish". Essentially these are podcast anywhere from 12 - 20 mins in length. I walk to and from work listening to this and hopefully picking up enough to get by.

Buon Camino

Brent, Vancouver (May/June 2013)

 

[supersullivan]

Hello All,

I hope this message finds you well! I plan to walk the Camino in May of 2013. I will have completed my first year of law school and I think the Camino will bring some much needed perspective. My parents are very hesitant about the trip because, as of now, I will be doing the walk alone. I'm a 23 year old woman with limited spanish so their anxiety is to be expected. I had hoped to connect with a few people prior to the trip to ease their mind.

Please let me know if you plan to walk the Camino in May; I would be so grateful for any advice or community pre-Camino.

Kindest Regards,
Leigh

Hi Leigh

I'm arriving in St Jean on May 22nd and plan on staying in L'Esprit de Chemin albergue before going to Roncesvalles on the 23rd, I'll be starting with enough Spanish to order a coffee or menu of the day etc. and found I could manage with this when walking Sarria - Santiago last September. Don't worry about arriving alone, you'll be meeting fellow solo peregrinos from day 1 and you'll soon settle into a small compatible group.

Buen Camino

Seamus

 

[supersullivan]

Well the deed is done, I've decided to allow Ryanair the honour of flying me into Biarritz on Wednesday 22nd May 2013 and will be arriving in St Jean that evening, Thursday, weather permitting, will see me gliding easily up the Route Napoleon :wink: and into Roncesvalles. Say hello if you see me, I'll be the Irishman with pale legs smoking small cigars and doubting his sanity with every laboured step.

Buen Camino

Seamus

Hey Seamus, I'm flying the same route the day after you. I may or may not spend an extra night in St Jean (see how it goes). I expect to see you along the journey at some point. I'll be the guy with the perpetual smile on his face.

Brent, Vancouver Canada (May/June 2013)

Hi Brent, alas because of a 4 week time window I'll probably be a day or 2 ahead of you all the way, I'm intending on 23 days to Santiago and then either 2 long or 3 normal days to either Finisterre or Muxia but wishing you a Camino of mild days, warm nights and plenty of good company.

Regards

Seamus

 

[krazeekuban]

I will happily return for my second Camino Frances this next September and be a hospitalero somewhere after the Camino. I will be at the American Pilgrims on the Camino Gathering in Santa Barbara , California this March and will take my training there. Looking forward to meeting many of other pilgrims this year. Buen Camino to all!!

 

[Al the optimist]

Becks and Ron. Thanks for posting when you are starting. Just to let you know the calendar has you leaving SJPdP on May 10th.
allan

 

[ornarywomn]

Hello,
I am having a hard time finding a train to Le Puy from Barcelona. Every combination of cities I insert in the site comes back with the same response (none can be found for your trip please try again). I am staying in Barcelona for a week before I start my 4 month trek from Le Puy to Muxia. Does anyone know how I can get to Le Puy from Barcelona on March 18th? Please help!

Thank you
Leslie

 

[Deleted member 3000]

The Renfe site won't give you trains from Spain to France (at least for me), but you can go from Barcelona to Perpignan, France, then connect to Le Puy. Trains between the two country only cross the border at Perpignan and Irun.

Barcelona to Perpignan - 41.00 €:
Train / Route Departure Arrival Duration
00460 TALGO 16.42 19.38 2 h. 56 min.

Perpignan to Le Puy en Velay
A partir de 07h18 08h16 13h18
69.10 € 53.20 € 60.50 €
Durée 05h54 07h05 06h07
Voyagez avec TGV TER TGV TER INTERCITÉS

 

[lindseh]

Hi Lindsey, I have seen the email indicating the date and time for the meeting in January. Might you have that info?

Brent, Vancouver (May/June 2013)

No I don't. I feel like I found the date and time when I looked for it earlier, and now I'm not sure. When is it?

 

[dalston999]

I completed the Le Puy Route to Santiago last September and October and now planning the next!

I'd like to do either the Arles route or Via de la Plata in March but am worried about walking these on my own as they both sound less frequented and quite isolated in parts.

Is anyone interested in linking up, even quite informally or for part of the route? It would be great to hear from you if so.

 

[bismith]

Hi Lindsey, I have seen the email indicating the date and time for the meeting in January. Might you have that info?

Brent, Vancouver (May/June 2013)

No I don't. I feel like I found the date and time when I looked for it earlier, and now I'm not sure. When is it?

Sorry my typing was bad; I haven't see when the mtg is! Hopefully something will get posted soon

 

[ornarywomn]

Thank you Falcon!