COVID-19 — It is time to postpone your camino.

[Jcf-kiwi]

Yesterday Mr Trump said that he may ban flights from the UK, so that option could soon disappear.

Coronavirus: Trump says US may have to include UK in European travel ban

The UK was exempt when he announced earlier this week he would not allow people from 26 European nations to come into the US.

news.sky.com

 

[Vaughan]

I think the ban is only for Europeans travelling from the Schengen area. US nationals are still allowed to return to the US but will have to self isolate. The UK route may not work as the advice said it was only ok if travellers had been in the UK for 14 days prior to travel.

 

[Molly Cassidy]

I think the ban is only for Europeans travelling from the Schengen area. US nationals are still allowed to return to the US but will have to self isolate. The UK route may not work as the advice said it was only ok if travellers had been in the UK for 14 days prior to travel.

Yes, US nationals are allowed to return home, but the ban on European travellers visiting the US may mean there are no flights from certain countries/airports. For a US citizen it will make no different if they arrive home from Spain or the UK.

 

[Jcf-kiwi]

To clarify (thanks to Vaughan for prompting this clarification):

--------------
President Trump on Wednesday night announced that foreign nationals who had been in certain European countries for the last two weeks would not be allowed to fly to the United States.

Within days, two airlines announced cutbacks to services to and from Europe, with Delta Air Lines, the largest carrier in the United States, cutting routes altogether for 30 days and Norwegian Air canceling all flights to six European cities through the end of the month.
[...]
This means a drastic and sudden reduction in the supply of flights, and more cuts are expected from other airlines. Passengers on low-cost carriers in particular may want to consider backup travel arrangements; those airlines will be most immediately affected by the loss of passenger revenue and are the most likely to cut flights.
---------------

The Extended Travel Ban: What It Means for Air Travelers

The Trump administration widened the travel ban to include the United Kingdom and Ireland. Here’s a guide on which countries are affected, and the changes to flights already occurring.

www.nytimes.com

 

[ISABEL linares]

Peregrina 2.OOO.Very good advise.The Camino will be always waiting for you.

 

[Sparleb644]

Ryanair and Aer Lingus are also offering free changes.

we booked on Feb 15th with Air Transat from Montreal to Madrid for June 18th. Air Transat has totally relaxed change fees for all bookings since March 3rd. No changes to other bookings Fee structure. Hope they’ll step up as this continues. Otherwise we’re hooped too!

Based on the last 30 days, the whole situation could be very different in one month.

I would usually end this with Safe Travels, but instead, Keep Well!

 

[JabbaPapa]

If there are no flights from Spain to the US, consider a cheap flight to the UK or Ireland for a connection to the US.

The travel ban from the Schengen area concerns non-US nationals having been present in the area during the previous 14 days.

US citizens should be able to return to the US (my understanding is that it would be illegal to prevent it) ; non US citizens needing to return to the USA may need to spend two weeks in a non-quarantined territory before returning.

 

[1deblackwell]

I would like advice please.
We were scheduled to fly to Spain at the end of April. Now that our plans have changed I have to decide about our fights in the future.
Delta will allow me to change the flight but we must fly by the end of 2020. Or cancel the flights with a $400 loss , but will get the rest our our $ back. Should I re schedule for September or take the loss?
Any suggestions? It’s so difficult to predict the future of this virus.
Thank you so much! This is a sad time but we all need to work together.

 

[Mark Payne]

Our little team of Ivar and the mods, after careful discussion, has concluded that the only way we can be socially responsible is to recommend that in the current situation, forum members should not travel to Spain to walk the Camino. Different Camino groups have issued similar warnings.
We are confident that the best current advice is that you not undertake the camino now, or for the foreseeable future, but we do not feel equipped to put a time frame on this advice.
We urge you to pay attention to developments in Spain and around the world before buying new tickets or making new reservations.

As we have said to each other on so many occasions — The Camino isn’t going anywhere, it will be here waiting for a better time to walk.

Buen camino to all, from the mods.

Thanks Ivar and bless you and your team there.

 

[1deblackwell]

Thank you,
We were to start our Camino at the end of April. I have to decide what to do with our tickets. Re book for September for free or cancel for a refund with a $400 penalty. Any advice? It’s hard to predict the future.

 

[Vaughan]

Thank you,
We were to start our Camino at the end of April. I have to decide what to do with our tickets. Re book for September for free or cancel for a refund with a $400 penalty. Any advice? It’s hard to predict the future.

Difficult question to answer as nobody knows for sure what the position will be in September, either in your country or in Spain. If you can re-book now and then cancel again in the future with the same penalty that might be a good option while things are so uncertain?

 

[Galloglaigh]

or cancel for a refund with a $400 penalty

That is a rather questionable approach. Assume that they will offer a full refund if they have to cancel but if you choose to pre-empt what might happen, they are penalising people to try to keep some cash in their business.

Do you have insurance and what do they say

 

[ginniek]

Thank you Ivar and to all the mods for all the work you do for us.

You can't rest though - we'll all be planning for a future camino and there will be plenty of chat about various things. Let's start things off!

When those speedy pushbikers blast at 100 kilometers per hour past you walking on the narrow Camino track, what's the Spanish word for "*$%#@**!!" That would be a good topic? No?

Wishing everyone all the best in these challenging times

Graham

I know a few appropriate terms, but I don't think they would be permitted here.

 

[mguillen]

Hi Ivar,
I was planning on doing the Camino Francais again starting in June now this...

Spain travel advice

Latest travel advice for Spain, including how to stay safe during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic and information on returning to the UK.

www.gov.uk

But I guess we should do the right thing.

12/30/20?!?

 

[VNwalking]

Going home or not starting should be a no-brainer. Here is sobering quote about the situation in Spain from the Washington Post:

Sanchez approved €18 billion ($20 billion) in aid to combat the spread of the coronavirus but warned the Spanish public on Friday that the worst was yet to come.

“We are only in the first stage of fighting the virus,” Sanchez said Friday. “We can expect very tough weeks ahead. We will reach 10,000 infected next week.”

 

[lizwalking]

Good decision moderators. In Ireland we are in the delay phase. Slowing the spread might mean we will have enough healthy healthcare workers and equipment to treat the people who need it when that time arrives.
For now my camino is to maintain social distance, only to travel to my healthcare job or to deliver food and meds to vulnerable family and neighbours.
I will pay a donation cancellation fee to accommodations which I have already booked for April in Spain. This feels right for me, to express solidarity and gratitude for the shelter I have received on my past Caminos

 

[Bala]

Thank you,
We were to start our Camino at the end of April. I have to decide what to do with our tickets. Re book for September for free or cancel for a refund with a $400 penalty. Any advice? It’s hard to predict the future.

Just my opinion, but if it were me and I could go in September, I would rebook. If there are still issues as the summer process, I would guess that the airlines will make similar offers then. And at worse, you would probably still only be out the same $400 you'd be out now if you cancel. But that's only a guess, and only what I personally would do. Whatever you decide, all the best to you.

 

[Bala]

BBC is reporting that Jet2 just had flights en route from the UK to Spain turn around mid-air and return.

 

[JabbaPapa]

We were to start our Camino at the end of April. I have to decide what to do with our tickets. Re book for September for free or cancel for a refund with a $400 penalty. Any advice? It’s hard to predict the future.

hmmmm, maybe rebook for September, then if it's still no-go hope for a re-book window at that point for the same reasons ?

Better maybe than $400 down the drain ?

 

[JabbaPapa]

BBC is reporting that Jet2 just had flights en route from the UK to Spain turn around mid-air and return.

The company has cancelled all of its flights to Spain.

 

[trecile]

Forbes is keeping and updating a list of airline cancellation policies

Master List Of All Major International Airline Coronavirus Change And Cancellation Policies

Airlines have differing policies on changes and cancelations due to COVID-19, or the coronavirus. Here's a daily-updated master list of airline policies.

www.forbes.com

 

[Bradypus]

A number of posts arguing about the different approaches of national governments to the problem of coronavirus have been deleted. Repetitive and not immediately relevant to the current situation in Spain.

 

[Amused212]

Our little team of Ivar and the mods, after careful discussion, has concluded that the only way we can be socially responsible is to recommend that in the current situation, forum members should not travel to Spain to walk the Camino. Different Camino groups have issued similar warnings.
We are confident that the best current advice is that you not undertake the camino now, or for the foreseeable future, but we do not feel equipped to put a time frame on this advice.
We urge you to pay attention to developments in Spain and around the world before buying new tickets or making new reservations.

As we have said to each other on so many occasions — The Camino isn’t going anywhere, it will be here waiting for a better time to walk.

Buen camino to all, from the mods.

Thank you. I believe this is the right choice. I am canceling my Camino. I had planned a two month holiday - first in Spain to do the Camino, then on to Portugal and France. The governments of these countries plus my own are taking a variety of actions to try to contain the virus. Any one of these actions might interrupt my travels - maybe I could get to Spain but be prevented from going to Portugal, etc. Would my own country let me back in without spending time in quarantine? Plus, I don't want to add to the problem. And I have to cancel now or lose deposits for my post-Camino travels. Ivar, your post helped me to feel comfortable with my choice to cancel. Again, thank you.

 

[4 Eyes]

Good call. Thanks.

 

[Jean-Claude]

Thank you Ivan and fellow moderators, for your information, advice and compassion. It can’t always be easy for you ... please know you are appreciated.

 

[Gwen265]

Our little team of Ivar and the mods, after careful discussion, has concluded that the only way we can be socially responsible is to recommend that in the current situation, forum members should not travel to Spain to walk the Camino. Different Camino groups have issued similar warnings.
We are confident that the best current advice is that you not undertake the camino now, or for the foreseeable future, but we do not feel equipped to put a time frame on this advice.
We urge you to pay attention to developments in Spain and around the world before buying new tickets or making new reservations.

As we have said to each other on so many occasions — The Camino isn’t going anywhere, it will be here waiting for a better time to walk.

Buen camino to all, from the mods.

Good advise. This time next year !

 

[Opa Theo]

Really unsure what to do now. 3 of us are enroute through Portugal. We have prebooked private accommodations for all the route. Had already prepared myself for not going into Cathedral, which is closing from noon today. Hard conversations to be had

Things might get much worse. Cancel. Go home. Everyone's life is a pilgrimage. The camino is a small portion of a person's journey.

 

[grayland]

The US has just extended the travel ban to include the UK and Ireland.

 

[Eugene Carroll]

Yo Pilgrims, had to leave the Camino Frances in Leon today and make my Way home. Everything in Spain is either closing or closed. I feel for the lovely Koreans, Australians, South Africans Americans and othets who travelled so far to be stopped by the Virus. Don’t even think about it until this virus has been controlled

 

[Devon Mike]

If there are no flights from Spain to the US, consider a cheap flight to the UK or Ireland for a connection to the US.

On the news this afternoon, US has now banned flights from the UK and Ireland after Monday.

 

[alexwalker]

The Norwegian Prime minister just held a TV press conference: As of Monday 8.00 AM, Norwegian airports and harbours will be closed. Border road control (against Russia, Finland and Sweden) will be launched. We are shutting down Norway indefinitely.

 

[Meara]

I've cancelled my camino for May. It's the best decision for me. I should be getting 100% of my flight cost back from what my travel agent says. I'll know more after the weekend. I'll revisit this in the fall.

 

[Meara]

Many members are very insistent that it's the best decision for everyone. I love the insistent ones!!

While I feel that given the global nature of this situation and would encourage everyone to follow the travel advisories I can only speak for myself and my decisions at this time.

 

[Bob from L.A. !]

Need I say more? (Good call)

 

[NorthernLight]

“Return home while you can” is the advice of the Canadian government. Seems applicable to everyone.

Return home while you can, Ottawa tells Canadians as COVID-19 continues to spread

The growing number of COVID-19 cases in Canada prompted a wave of restrictions aimed at protecting seniors on Saturday as officials made more insistent calls for travellers to return home without delay.

www.ctvnews.ca

“Airlines have cancelled flights. New restrictions may be imposed with little warning. Your travel plans may be severely disrupted and you may be forced to remain outside of Canada longer than expected," the ministry said in a statement.

 

[Thom]

A friend of mine who lives outside of Madrid just posted this on another social media platform.
“Big changes afoot here in Spain. Here's the latest:

We are now officially on national lockdown. No leaving the house unless you are going to the supermarket, pharmacy, gas station, or to care for an elderly relative, eg. At the moment, this measure will be in effect for the next 15 days. Local police will answer to the federal government and have instructions to enforce this order. All non-essential businesses must close, and this includes my husband's store. Luckily, I am working from home, and at the moment I have more than enough to keep me busy. Churches are closed, as well as restaurants and bars. All reinforcements necessary to keep the healthcare system running smoothly will be provided. The government is studying the possibility of postponing upcoming elections in Galicia and the Basque Country. All Holy Week processions and gatherings are cancelled.

Before we listened to the PM's speech at 9p, we watched the news. Drones with loudspeakers are being used in Madrid to make sure people stay at home. 100+ countries are refusing entry to travelers coming in from Spain. 60+ countries are requiring a medical exam + quarantine for travelers coming in from Spain.

The latest stats were updated four hours ago: 6250 cases, up from 4200 yesterday.”

 

[Pray'nwalk]

God's ways are not our ways. Prayers for all who are affected.

 

[ObeeOne]

Spain is closing borders now. I was able to postpone my May plans to October. If need be, I can very likely even move that to next year. So many businesses affected! And so many people. Praying for all.

 

[Jenny@zen]

Our little team of Ivar and the mods, after careful discussion, has concluded that the only way we can be socially responsible is to recommend that in the current situation, forum members should not travel to Spain to walk the Camino. Different Camino groups have issued similar warnings.
We are confident that the best current advice is that you not undertake the camino now, or for the foreseeable future, but we do not feel equipped to put a time frame on this advice.
We urge you to pay attention to developments in Spain and around the world before buying new tickets or making new reservations.

As we have said to each other on so many occasions — The Camino isn’t going anywhere, it will be here waiting for a better time to walk.

Buen camino to all, from the mods.

Thank you Laurie and forum moderators. I wholeheartedly agree with what you say. We are all in this together. From all that we read and listen to, wherever you call 'home' in the world, the best we can do individually and as communities is to do our part in slowing the spread of this virus so that our health professionals and health systems can tend to those whom the virus may affect seriously and those who are dealing with other health issues. For our part, our move from Sydney to south west France due in just a few weeks and our short Camino Baztan we were looking forward to in late May will wait for us ... Buen camino to all. Take care of yourselves and others. x

 

[Kumi]

I read this with a very heavy heart as the older I get the less time I have to wait! At least I can say I have been a-camino since 2003/2004 and am grateful for every step. A big thank you to Ivar and the team for looking after us and I will be lighting candles for all those still on the trail. Walk soft, stay safe, and safe home Vaya con Dios. The Malingerer.

I feel the same, heavy hearted..as I get older with time.. I am thankful and grateful for this thread.. I just got home from being off grid ...I was going May 1st.. I will keep my eyes and ears open.. and hopefully plan Universe willing to go when it reopens.. Buen Camino

 

[Anniesantiago]

I just arrived in Santiago after walking from Porto on the coastal. Everything in Santiago is shutting down... The cathedral and the entire tourist sections. Someone just told me that all Alburgues are shutting down also... everywhere. I am stuck in Santiago.,was going to walk from Leon to Santiago. 3 weeks before my return flight to the USA. Anyone have Any ideas?

Not to alarm you but we just arrived to LAX and were told by the flight attendant flights from Schengen countries to the US will STOP soon even for citizens. The airports were empty. I suggest you get home now.

 

[ruthieg]

Our little team of Ivar and the mods, after careful discussion, has concluded that the only way we can be socially responsible is to recommend that in the current situation, forum members should not travel to Spain to walk the Camino. Different Camino groups have issued similar warnings.
We are confident that the best current advice is that you not undertake the camino now, or for the foreseeable future, but we do not feel equipped to put a time frame on this advice.
We urge you to pay attention to developments in Spain and around the world before buying new tickets or making new reservations.

As we have said to each other on so many occasions — The Camino isn’t going anywhere, it will be here waiting for a better time to walk.

Buen camino to all, from the mods.

Just wondering how long into the foreseeable future you suggest we put a halt on our travel plans. Do you think by September it will be safe to do the Portugeuse Camino?

 

[Anniesantiago]

If there are no flights from Spain to the US, consider a cheap flight to the UK or Ireland for a connection to the US.

Trump has announced flights from the U.K. and Ireland will also stop. Move quickly. It’s already in the news. Get home quickly any way you can is my advice.

 

[Francois de Meillon]

Our little team of Ivar and the mods, after careful discussion, has concluded that the only way we can be socially responsible is to recommend that in the current situation, forum members should not travel to Spain to walk the Camino. Different Camino groups have issued similar warnings.
We are confident that the best current advice is that you not undertake the camino now, or for the foreseeable future, but we do not feel equipped to put a time frame on this advice.
We urge you to pay attention to developments in Spain and around the world before buying new tickets or making new reservations.

As we have said to each other on so many occasions — The Camino isn’t going anywhere, it will be here waiting for a better time to walk.

Buen camino to all, from the mods.

Indeed. I was on my way come 31 March but decided about a week ago for it to not be. November is now in my sight. Time will tell. There is a life to live. It is a time to pray and and seek ABBA's face for my and our world. Let's pursue the days and survey the events. Thanks for good honest and truthful advice.

 

[Canada Wanders]

The thing that brought me to this forum site was the building emergency situation globally. I had been on another Camino site that has crashed and ceased to exist, bringing a sense of sadness and loss. However, my fear for those currently on the Camino brought back to a site to monitor and support.
God bless those on the way now, may they find safety and security.
Those that have had their plans interrupted, be of good cheer, and wait for a new day.
The Camino will always find a way.

 

[Turga]

Just wondering how long into the foreseeable future you suggest we put a halt on our travel plans. Do you think by September it will be safe to do the Portugeuse Camino?

Don’t rely on advice/recommendations from moderators or others on this forum or any other public forum! Listen to advice from your national government/health authorities and reputable resources only.

 

[wayfarer]

Don’t rely on advice/recommendations from moderators or others on this forum or any other public forum! Listen to advice from your national government/health authorities and reputable resources only.

Which has been the advise of moderators since all this started.

 

[Turga]

Which has been the advise of moderators since all this started.

I know that – but, apparently, some people have a different perception…

 

[provodnikcamino]

Here is time frame: When the numbers here are zero: https://coronavirus.jhu.edu/map.html

I don't expect the number to become zero. The numbers for the flu are never zero. But those numbers do need to show that the disease is under control, stopped spreading, and is treatable and hopefully preventible.

 

[provodnikcamino]

If there are no flights from Spain to the US, consider a cheap flight to the UK or Ireland for a connection to the US.

UK and Ireland are both part of the travel ban now. Your best short-term bet may be Mexico or Canada.

 

[provodnikcamino]

Johns Hopkins' web site provides good information about the virus spread and here is another one that is almost real time: https://ncov2019.live/

 

[C clearly]

Just wondering how long into the foreseeable future you suggest we put a halt on our travel plans. Do you think by September it will be safe to do the Portugeuse Camino?

Unfortunately, nobody knows. Experts and non-experts alike go through various scenarios to make assumptions and work out a possible time frame, but the uncertainties are too large for us to be giving advice on personal travel plans.

Ask us a question about the camino, and we can probably answer. This question, we can't!

 

[trecile]

I don't expect the number to become zero. The numbers for the flu are never zero. But those numbers do need to show that the disease is under control, stopped spreading, and is treatable and hopefully preventible.

But we do usually have vaccines against the flu. I know that they aren't always effective, but right now the only way to slow this virus down is to deny it host bodies.

 

[jcat]

Cancelled my April Camino. No problem getting a full refund on my flight. My initial plan was to just change the dates to October, but then decided to wait it out before making a decision.

 

[zrexer]

Not trying to make make light of a serious situation, but I think we all need a smile about now.

 

[california smith]

I have a ticket for the Camino in June and dont know if I should cancel

 

[trecile]

I have a ticket for the Camino in June and dont know if I should cancel

I think that right now it's a waiting game. No one can give you any assurances one way or another.

 

[NorthernLight]

I went back in the forum’s time machine ....

On Feb 14, there were still only 2 known cases of Covid19 in Spain. Today March 15, there are 7,753 known cases (death toll 288) (today’s numbers from thelocal.es).

It’s been astonishing and exhausting to watch history happening before our eyes. The mods must be completely worn out.

I doubt even the health authorities can tell us right now when the coast will be clear to go back to life as usual. So much depends on the decisions of governments.

 

[JillGat]

Somebody worried in another thread that this pandemic might kill this forum. On the contrary, I'm guessing the forum will be five time busier. If we cant walk, you can be damn sure we are going to want to talk about it even more.

 

[JillGat]

Covid19 isnt going away. The current goal is to flatten the curve of infections so they dont happen all at once and overwhelm the health systems. At some point, I suspect everyone will be exposed to this novel virus against which we have no immunity. So travel bans will have no effect against a pandemic a few months from now. That's my epidemiological projection, (which is worth what you paid for it.)

 

[Jeffns]

Just my opinion, but if it were me and I could go in September, I would rebook. If there are still issues as the summer process, I would guess that the airlines will make similar offers then. And at worse, you would probably still only be out the same $400 you'd be out now if you cancel. But that's only a guess, and only what I personally would do. Whatever you decide, all the best to you.

I’m in the exact same situation with American Airlines. I re-booked to start in September.

 

[rafikiphoto]

Thank you,
We were to start our Camino at the end of April. I have to decide what to do with our tickets. Re book for September for free or cancel for a refund with a $400 penalty. Any advice? It’s hard to predict the future.

My wife and I both have (non-Camino) flights booked for mid-April. I have the opportunity to re-schedule both to a later date without penalty so long as I do it before 31st March. My plan is to wait until closer to that date and decide then because if the airline cancels those flights before, which could easily happen, I will get a full refund and am free to wait and see later in the year. Should the flights not be cancelled by the deadline I will see what extra charges I must pay to re-book (difference in flight prices) to see if it is worth it or let the tickets lapse.

 

[SFGfan]

The Camino will always be there. Be safe stay safe.
Buen Camino

 

[Friend from Barquinha]

Good call by the moderators, I believe.

Long-distance walkers in the US are grappling with the same questions...

https://www.washingtonpost.com/nation/2020/03/16/appalachian-trail-coronavirus-backpacking/

 

[André2112]

I really feel sorry for everyone who have to cancel now because of Covid-19. In the bigger picture this is off course not important. In have a flight to Pamplona on Aug 15th, I have my fingers crossed but tbh my mind not really on the Camino now.

Stay safe!

 

[Iriebabel]

My flight cancelled after Spain declared emergency so was able to get a refund from the airlines. There Is always next year. The way we live life and how we interact with each other in a public setting will change in the future but I think for the better so I remain positive in my outlook.

Had another follow up with my plantar faciitis foot surgeon today ... surgery was 23 January. I am healing but not 100% perfect...the original pain has subsided But the pain of surgery remains for now. I am off crutches and for now it is back to stretching and icing daily. To avoid the scar tissue.

Thanks to @ivar, forum members and our Mods for keeping the information flowing And keeping it based facts not fiction.

Let us offer a prayer and positive thoughts to all those already affected by this event Or who have lost love ones. The camino and Spain is ever present in our hearts and minds ....just because we are not walking doesn't mean we have lost the spirit of the camino. We can instead care for our friends and neighbors, the elderly or those who cannot go out due to compromised immune systems. Love to you all my camino family and be safe

 

[zrexer]

This is certainly no joke. My son left work today with a fever and dry cough. He had been at a conference in California about 2 weeks ago that had an international group. He is trying to get in for a test, but they are swamped.
He isn't feeling too bad so far, but he does have asthma, so this could be serious for him.
If he is confirmed I will be in isolation for 2 weeks minimum as he was over for dinner last night. I am retired, so not a big deal, but still a concern.
Worrying about my Camino this fall is about the last thing on my mind now.

 

[Iriebabel]

This is certainly no joke. My son left work today with a fever and dry cough. He had been at a conference in California about 2 weeks ago that had an international group. He is trying to get in for a test, but they are swamped.
He isn't feeling too bad so far, but he does have asthma, so this could be serious for him.
If he is confirmed I will be in isolation for 2 weeks minimum as he was over for dinner last night. I am retired, so not a big deal, but still a concern.
Worrying about my Camino this fall is about the last thing on my mind now.

My best wishes to your son that he will be well. If he is young and strong without any underlining health issues he should fair well. I hope you will keep us updated on his progress. I think you have the best wishes from all on this forum.

I am retired too and I have asthma so I don't go out unless I have to. My mom in isolation she has severe asthma and COPD. Today I went to the foot doctor for my surgical follow up and went to the supermarket only to find empty shelves.. but the supermarket is doing a great job on disinfecting so much so my nose was burning from the chemicals but no complaint from me. Panic and selfishness exists but I know it is only the action of a few . Stay well

 

[trecile]

If he is confirmed I will be in isolation for 2 weeks minimum as he was over for dinner last night. I am retired, so not a big deal, but still a concern.

It is best to self isolate regardless

 

[André2112]

Increased by 10.000 (worldwide) today.

Corona virus world spread map (live)

 

[LesBrass]

This is certainly no joke. My son left work today with a fever and dry cough. He had been at a conference in California about 2 weeks ago that had an international group. He is trying to get in for a test, but they are swamped.
He isn't feeling too bad so far, but he does have asthma, so this could be serious for him.
If he is confirmed I will be in isolation for 2 weeks minimum as he was over for dinner last night. I am retired, so not a big deal, but still a concern.
Worrying about my Camino this fall is about the last thing on my mind now.

How very worrying for you. I hope he is ok and well very soon... it puts all other issues into perspective.

 

[zrexer]

It is best to self isolate regardless

Agreed, during the winter I am pretty much a hermit anyway in northern Alberta. Just hang out with my dog and do a lot of reading. I of course get dinner ready for my wife who still works. Retirement has turned me into a decent cook!

 

[JabbaPapa]

France will be in general lockdown from 12 midday tomorrow.

 

[CaminoDebrita]

Hello, dear friends! I popped in to see what my fellow pilgrims had to say about this heartbreaking pandemic. I'm glad to see all of you banding together and proceeding with grace. It's a time to safeguard!

My situation is interesting, as always. I finally got my health in check--I had uncontrolled asthma, but had to tank before I got help (gotta love the US healthcare, NOT!). I was feeling amazing until ten days ago, when I got terribly ill---sniffles, body aches, all that jazz. In any case, I've been enjoying the "confines" of home and better.

My band is doing well! We are headlining the county fair and rodeo in August if things clear up here in the USA. I won't be holding my breath.

The high school I work at is closed, at least through April 1st, but maybe after that too. I'm the "sub librarian" but may choose to discontinue that job.

Good health and good luck to all, and I'm glad to see everyone together!

 

[LesBrass]

France will be in general lockdown from 12 midday tomorrow.

Here's the link : https://www.gouvernement.fr/info-co...P8huuAaRZLATrNu3R3Mfmt823NBjF8PYCUXqfCuwKtRRw

It says... On March 16, 2020, the President of the Republic decided to take measures to reduce contact and travel to a minimum as of Tuesday March 17 at 12:00 noon, for a minimum of fifteen days. These will be authorized on certificate only for:

• Travel from home to work when telework is not possible
• Make essential purchases in authorized local shops
• Go to a health professional
• Travel for childcare and support vulnerable people
• Exercise only on an individual basis, around the home and without any gathering

The certificate necessary to circulate will be available on this page tomorrow Tuesday, March 17.

We can download a form tomorrow and complete it and take it with us if we need to go out. I will take my little walk around the woods behind my house but I'm always on my own... and evenso... I'll take my attestation with me!

 

[alexwalker]

As expected...

 

[JabbaPapa]

The certificate necessary to circulate

Can't see much chance of this being workable locally -- it is not, of course, any sort of crime against the State to not own a printer.

But it does make all French route Caminos unwalkable.

 

[LesBrass]

Can't see much chance of this being workable locally -- it is not, of course, any sort of crime against the State to not own a printer.

But it does make all French route Caminos unwalkable.

100% - just as in Spain it's time to reconsider until things improve. The sooner we can break this thing the sooner life can return to normal... whatever that normal will be

 

[Calkrizz1989]

I had my flights booked with Flybe originally for a May Camiño Frances, Flybe went bust. Day after I booked with Air France and Easy Jet and now Spain is on complete lock down and there is a deadly airborne virus being transferred around the world spreading faster than an Australian bush fire.
I need to accept the fact that it’s not meant to happen, if I decide to go in May, even if it’s permitted, it’s not only selfish but massively irresponsible. The Camino will always be there for another day.

 

[KinkyOne]

Today (Tuesday) or at the latest on Wednesday EU airspace is closing for all commercial public flights (you can check out here: https://www.flightradar24.com/45.61,13.94/8). Many land borders too. So better find a way to return home fast or stay where you are if in foreign country.

Good luck to everyone

 

[domigee]

I had my flights booked with Flybe originally for a May Camiño Frances, Flybe went bust. Day after I booked with Air France and Easy Jet and now Spain is on complete lock down and there is a deadly airborne virus being transferred around the world spreading faster than an Australian bush fire.
I need to accept the fact that it’s not meant to happen, if I decide to go in May, even if it’s permitted, it’s not only selfish but massively irresponsible. The Camino will always be there for another day.

I am so sorry your plans were wrecked, just like all ours It is still difficult to take it all in as things are moving so fast...
Just one thing to remember though, this virus is not airborne (unless I have got it all wrong!!!?) but it moves with us, hence the need to stay put.
All the best to each and everyone of you, stay safe.
Hopefully we’ll all be able to walk the Caminos again...
D

 

[FooteK]

I just arrived in Santiago after walking from Porto on the coastal. Everything in Santiago is shutting down... The cathedral and the entire tourist sections. Someone just told me that all Alburgues are shutting down also... everywhere. I am stuck in Santiago.,was going to walk from Leon to Santiago. 3 weeks before my return flight to the USA. Anyone have Any ideas?

Do you want to stay in Spain or do you want to go home?
If you want to stay in Spain until your return flight is scheduled, you may want to plan to stay in place and follow the rules which everyone else in Spain is being asked to follow. You don't want to inadvertently spread the virus.
"Camino Pilgrim Source of Greatest Contamination along Camino de Santiago" - not a headline we need to see.
If you want to go home, contact your airlines and see what they can do.
Do you have a place to stay? If not, maybe contact the Spanish Red Cross or the Pilgrim Office (if you can find them open).
Remember that you are returning to the US from a country with one of the highest illness rates in Europe. From what I've seen on TV, passengers returning to the US are having a terrible time getting through the airports and it wouldn't be unlikely that, if they weren't sick before, they pick up the virus at the airport.
Just my $0.02, Buen Camino and stay healthy. Have faith.

 

[SYates]

...
Do you have a place to stay? If not, maybe contact the Spanish Red Cross or the Pilgrim Office (if you can find them open).
...

The Pilgrim Office is closed since several days, the best thing for anybody stranded here is to contact both their airline and their embassy. If that fails you need to contact the police who know where temporary accommodation has been set up. You can also contact me, especially if you are in Santiago, and I do my best to help with translations and so.

BC SY

 

[FooteK]

The Pilgrim Office is closed since several days, the best thing for anybody stranded here is to contact both their airline and their embassy. If that fails you need to contact the police who know where temporary accommodation has been set up. You can also contact me, especially if you are in Santiago, and I do my best to help with translations and so.

BC SY

I stand corrected. As always, pilgrims rely on the kindness of strangers. On behalf of our friends wandering in Spain, thank you.

 

[kirkie]

Anai, of Hosvol, has just sent a very well crafted letter, giving the current situation, and saying that this will not be the end of it, the halt on the service period for hospitaleros. So, as someone posted the other day - and this is precisely what Anai says, with real sadness, yes, the Camino is closed. Pro tem!
A photo from Dublin airport two weeks ago, new life is just around the corner!

 

[LTfit]

Anai, of Hosvol, has just sent a very well crafted letter, giving the current situation, and saying that this will not be the end of it, the halt on the service period for hospitaleros. So, as someone posted the other day - and this is precisely what Anai says, with real sadness, yes, the Camino is closed. Pro tem!
A photo from Dublin airport two weeks ago, new life is just around the corner!View attachment 71048

Our posts must have crossed as I just made a new thread attaching the original letter in Spanish.

Mods: if you want to move it, go right ahead.

 

[kirkie]

Yours is a full account, please do not remove it, it will be very helpful.

 

[Betterisgood]

A new article en el país, in Spanish

Crisis por el coronavirus

Mensaje de ElPais

elpais.com

Moderators please move the link if there is a better place.
And as always Thank You!!

 

[barnettstakeagiantstep]

Thank you Ivar. I hope you and yours are well.
We look forward to meeting the Camino when the time is right for all.
Buen Camino friends

 

[Friend from Barquinha]

And the latest from Spain in English: (Tuesday 17 March)

https://www.thelocal.es/20200302/coronavirus-in-spain-how-worried-should-you-be

And this is their very useful paywall-free series about the coronavirus and Spain:

https://www.thelocal.es/tag/coronavirus

 

[FranH]

Our little team of Ivar and the mods, after careful discussion, has concluded that the only way we can be socially responsible is to recommend that in the current situation, forum members should not travel to Spain to walk the Camino. Different Camino groups have issued similar warnings.
We are confident that the best current advice is that you not undertake the camino now, or for the foreseeable future, but we do not feel equipped to put a time frame on this advice.
We urge you to pay attention to developments in Spain and around the world before buying new tickets or making new reservations.

As we have said to each other on so many occasions — The Camino isn’t going anywhere, it will be here waiting for a better time to walk.

Buen camino to all, from the mods.

Completely agree to what Ivar says. I have just left Spain as one of the very last walkers from the Luz de Fromista Albergue. Everywhere else had closed. Whatever the purpose of the Camino is for each individual, it is surely not to engage in interesting conversations with the Guardia Civil! And that is what you will have in the current climate. However spend energy in thinking how hard the period ahead is going to be for many of the wonderful hospitaleros. But I did have the wonderful luck of walking the Meseta almost alone!

 

[Crcwalks]

Our little team of Ivar and the mods, after careful discussion, has concluded that the only way we can be socially responsible is to recommend that in the current situation, forum members should not travel to Spain to walk the Camino. Different Camino groups have issued similar warnings.
We are confident that the best current advice is that you not undertake the camino now, or for the foreseeable future, but we do not feel equipped to put a time frame on this advice.
We urge you to pay attention to developments in Spain and around the world before buying new tickets or making new reservations.

As we have said to each other on so many occasions — The Camino isn’t going anywhere, it will be here waiting for a better time to walk.

Buen camino to all, from the mods.

Thanks for posting this advice to those who were wavering. The Camino has been around for many, many centuries. It will outlast the Coronavirus. We canceled weeks ago. See you again in safer times.

 

[pererin]

Wise advice, as we face difficult times globally. My thoughts and prayers are with those affected by this virus, whether directly or indirectly.

I know I will return, I hope to share my footsteps with many of you posting here.

Buen Camino

Pererin

 

[Lurch]

Peregrina 2.OOO.Very good advise.The Camino will be always waiting for you.

True, but I am 75 this year. Walked from BurgosI In 11/18 and hoped to do rest this year. Just have to wait another year, I guess. Take my Geritol I guess...

 

[Vikita]

Sadly, shutting down was the right decision. The disease would spread so quickly as there are many people in the alburgues. It must be heartbreaking to be in Spain knowing that your much awaited camino cannot be done. I did the camino in 2017 Pamplona to Santiago. I hope to do the entire camino some day.

 

[trecile]

Sadly, shutting down was the right decision. The disease would spread so quickly as there are many people in the alburgues. It must be heartbreaking to be in Spain knowing that your much awaited camino cannot be done. I did the camino in 2017 Pamplona to Santiago. I hope to do the entire camino some day.

Heartbreaking is the needless deaths. Not being able to take a walk? Not so much.

 

[biarritzdon]

I discussed my plans to do shortened Camino from Leon to Astorga in June with Rebekah Scott back in February and told her I was already making alternative plans because I was concerned about sleeping in confined quarters with people from all over the globe with no idea about where they had come from or been before their Camino.
Now my alternative plans are in tatters. I have been able to cancel all of my lodging plans for May and June but the airlines are impossible to reach.
As I read this thread I saw 3 responses from people still on the Camino. All I can say is, what are you thinking?

 

[Thornley]

I just arrived in Santiago after walking from Porto on the coastal. Everything in Santiago is shutting down... The cathedral and the entire tourist sections. Someone just told me that all Alburgues are shutting down also... everywhere. I am stuck in Santiago.,was going to walk from Leon to Santiago. 3 weeks before my return flight to the USA. Anyone have Any ideas?

Hope you arrived home in good health.

 

[zrexer]

This is certainly no joke. My son left work today with a fever and dry cough. He had been at a conference in California about 2 weeks ago that had an international group. He is trying to get in for a test, but they are swamped.
He isn't feeling too bad so far, but he does have asthma, so this could be serious for him.
If he is confirmed I will be in isolation for 2 weeks minimum as he was over for dinner last night. I am retired, so not a big deal, but still a concern.
Worrying about my Camino this fall is about the last thing on my mind now.

Just an update. My son did test negative for Covid-19 fortunately, but his flu like symptoms continue to drag on. He gets to where he is almost back to normal and then hit with another wave of it.
Normally he rarely gets even a cold. So besides Covid-19, there seems to be a lot of nasty bugs circulating this year.