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Yah, that’s the thing. IMO a temporary / less than standard fix cures the grouch for at least a little bit.@Damien Reynolds I am really not a nice person until I have had my coffee in the morning and I like to get up and walk early. My husband always walks about 50 paces behind me on these mornings until we find a place that has cafe con leche. I don't speak civilly until I have had my coffee con leche. One Camino day I had to walk 9 km to find an open bar with cafe con leche (somewhere on the meseta). I have tried instant coffee in my water bottle and it was no substitute. Frankly just being a grouch is the only option some days. I doubt if this response helps your cafe con leche quest, however, it may offer some explanation if you encounter a 60 year old woman with a blue backpack, white overshirt, and suncap with a neck drape cover who she is sullen and unfriendly between the hours of 6 and 9 a.m. on the Camino.
Sure if you are a glutton for punishment. I fully endorse getting that real cafe a few hours later too.What do you do to get that fix? Walk a couple of hours then get your café con leche.
Purple Backpack,We use one of these, as morning coffee is as necessary as lacing the boots. Caution: unplug before pulling out of liquid. We burned one out by exposing it to air when plugged in. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B001U0PA7M/?tag=casaivar02-20
Well, you got lucky. I am not suggesting instant coffee is good compared to a cafe con leche. Just saying if you need it before a day’s walk… well, you have “a way”.For some reason, this never occurred to me on my own... On one occasion I was dining in a bar in a one-bar town, and asked the owner what time he opened in the morning. It was later than I would be leaving. He suggested that he would put a cafe con leche in a paper cup and I could heat it in the albergue microwave in the morning. It was a lot better than instant coffee!
Whenever I go away on holiday I take a thermal cup and 10 coffee sachets Nescafe 3 in 1 for the mornings ..on the camino there be alberques which don't serve breakfast and when you go out there may be nothing around which is open ..so I have a cup when I get up and another for the road with some fruit such as bananas as a breakfast and some nuts to keep me going till I reach my comfort stop .So at home I don’t even drink coffee. I also rarely rise early… but on the Camino, well, it’s different.
I look forward to the myriad of better suggestions surely/maybe to follow.
So back in 2005 my mother introduced me to Cafe con Leche. It’s now a Camino staple for me. I look forward to the temporary addiction available at every bar/cafe you will ever go to. It’s also a social thing… everyone almost always wants their coffee and when you sit together and get some, it’s fun.
But what if you like to wake up early to walk? Like I’m talking about before the sun comes up. I met some friends last year on the Camino who loved to get out before dawn.
See the thing is, nothing is open. No early morning coffee before a hike, which to some I imagine sounds kinda crazy. Remember, this is people who like to wear headlamps and walk early in the morning, before the rest of the world wakes up
So what do you do to get that fix?
Well, last year I learned about the instant packs of coffee available at most mercados, even the little ones. I believe they are manufactured by Nestle, think Nescafé. Some of these even come with sugar and cream…
So if you carry a few of these around, in the am, before the sun comes up, you can get your coffee before you bail. With some caveats.
Let’s hope wherever u are staying has a microwave and mugs. Not always the case.
But for sure they will have hot water coming out of the tap… yes, desperate people sometimes require desperate measures.
Also, sometimes the stores only carry the decaf versions! Gasp. So I have substituted instant cappuccino instead.
One of the days we walked, I believe the day before Robidiso we started early with no breakfast or coffee thinking we would hit the next village. Well we walked 10 miles in the rain with no food or coffee because there wasn't anything open or any villages. Well by lunch time the Caldo, bread and wine hit the spot. My point is be take it if you can get it and be thankful when you do! I wish had some instant coffee at that timeSo at home I don’t even drink coffee. I also rarely rise early… but on the Camino, well, it’s different.
I look forward to the myriad of better suggestions surely/maybe to follow.
So back in 2005 my mother introduced me to Cafe con Leche. It’s now a Camino staple for me. I look forward to the temporary addiction available at every bar/cafe you will ever go to. It’s also a social thing… everyone almost always wants their coffee and when you sit together and get some, it’s fun.
But what if you like to wake up early to walk? Like I’m talking about before the sun comes up. I met some friends last year on the Camino who loved to get out before dawn.
See the thing is, nothing is open. No early morning coffee before a hike, which to some I imagine sounds kinda crazy. Remember, this is people who like to wear headlamps and walk early in the morning, before the rest of the world wakes up
So what do you do to get that fix?
Well, last year I learned about the instant packs of coffee available at most mercados, even the little ones. I believe they are manufactured by Nestle, think Nescafé. Some of these even come with sugar and cream…
So if you carry a few of these around, in the am, before the sun comes up, you can get your coffee before you bail. With some caveats.
Let’s hope wherever u are staying has a microwave and mugs. Not always the case.
But for sure they will have hot water coming out of the tap… yes, desperate people sometimes require desperate measures.
Also, sometimes the stores only carry the decaf versions! Gasp. So I have substituted instant cappuccino instead.
YUP!I enjoy the serendipity of finding the first open bar. Sometimes it is only metres after leaving my accommodation, sometimes 12km. I don't ignore the bar that is only metres away, because I've learnt that it might be the only one for a very long time.
Blasphemy!Or a Coca-Cola. Caffeine and sugar
I believe I do remember seeing the small packs of nescafe on the Frances in the grocers.Blasphemy!
Are the Nescafe or similar singles easily available in Spain? I have a little immersion heater as well. Haven't decided on the cup yet.....
My kind of person! Happy caffeination.So at home I don’t even drink coffee. I also rarely rise early… but on the Camino, well, it’s different.
I look forward to the myriad of better suggestions surely/maybe to follow.
So back in 2005 my mother introduced me to Cafe con Leche. It’s now a Camino staple for me. I look forward to the temporary addiction available at every bar/cafe you will ever go to. It’s also a social thing… everyone almost always wants their coffee and when you sit together and get some, it’s fun.
But what if you like to wake up early to walk? Like I’m talking about before the sun comes up. I met some friends last year on the Camino who loved to get out before dawn.
See the thing is, nothing is open. No early morning coffee before a hike, which to some I imagine sounds kinda crazy. Remember, this is people who like to wear headlamps and walk early in the morning, before the rest of the world wakes up
So what do you do to get that fix?
Well, last year I learned about the instant packs of coffee available at most mercados, even the little ones. I believe they are manufactured by Nestle, think Nescafé. Some of these even come with sugar and cream…
So if you carry a few of these around, in the am, before the sun comes up, you can get your coffee before you bail. With some caveats.
Let’s hope wherever u are staying has a microwave and mugs. Not always the case.
But for sure they will have hot water coming out of the tap… yes, desperate people sometimes require desperate measures.
Also, sometimes the stores only carry the decaf versions! Gasp. So I have substituted instant cappuccino instead.
Yes you can find the coffee sachets in Spain from most of the stores you come across even the corner shops which sell groceries should have themBlasphemy!
Are the Nescafe or similar singles easily available in Spain? I have a little immersion heater as well. Haven't decided on the cup yet.....
In 2017 I took my jet boil and bought a canister of gas to heat my water every morning. That was 2 pounds that I added to my already too heavy pack. It was worth it though. This year, I am leaving the jet boil at home and bringing an electric water heater coil and my own very light cup in addition to the instant coffee. for just a few grams of weight I will get my coffee every morning when I wake up. I am also a very early riser.So at home I don’t even drink coffee. I also rarely rise early… but on the Camino, well, it’s different.
I look forward to the myriad of better suggestions surely/maybe to follow.
So back in 2005 my mother introduced me to Cafe con Leche. It’s now a Camino staple for me. I look forward to the temporary addiction available at every bar/cafe you will ever go to. It’s also a social thing… everyone almost always wants their coffee and when you sit together and get some, it’s fun.
But what if you like to wake up early to walk? Like I’m talking about before the sun comes up. I met some friends last year on the Camino who loved to get out before dawn.
See the thing is, nothing is open. No early morning coffee before a hike, which to some I imagine sounds kinda crazy. Remember, this is people who like to wear headlamps and walk early in the morning, before the rest of the world wakes up
So what do you do to get that fix?
Well, last year I learned about the instant packs of coffee available at most mercados, even the little ones. I believe they are manufactured by Nestle, think Nescafé. Some of these even come with sugar and cream…
So if you carry a few of these around, in the am, before the sun comes up, you can get your coffee before you bail. With some caveats.
Let’s hope wherever u are staying has a microwave and mugs. Not always the case.
But for sure they will have hot water coming out of the tap… yes, desperate people sometimes require desperate measures.
Also, sometimes the stores only carry the decaf versions! Gasp. So I have substituted instant cappuccino instead.
I agree about walking several hours then stopping for a "cafe con leche GRANDE, por favor." This was an additional perk (pun intended) to our Camino because it afforded my husband and me the opportunity to enjoy the company of other peregrinos as well as a slice of tortilla española as we took a little break!What do you do to get that fix? Walk a couple of hours then get your café con leche.
I immediately identified with your post. As an early riser I look forward to the morning coffee, matter of fact the day does not really start for me until I get that first slug of coffee in me. To address the problem you mention, I take along a supply of the Starbucks instant packs, available at any grocery store in North America, likely elsewhere. They weigh nothing, and taking along a dozen or so has saved the day for me many times. Thanks for the reminder, I am walking again this Sept, will now go add those to my list!So at home I don’t even drink coffee. I also rarely rise early… but on the Camino, well, it’s different.
I look forward to the myriad of better suggestions surely/maybe to follow.
So back in 2005 my mother introduced me to Cafe con Leche. It’s now a Camino staple for me. I look forward to the temporary addiction available at every bar/cafe you will ever go to. It’s also a social thing… everyone almost always wants their coffee and when you sit together and get some, it’s fun.
But what if you like to wake up early to walk? Like I’m talking about before the sun comes up. I met some friends last year on the Camino who loved to get out before dawn.
See the thing is, nothing is open. No early morning coffee before a hike, which to some I imagine sounds kinda crazy. Remember, this is people who like to wear headlamps and walk early in the morning, before the rest of the world wakes up
So what do you do to get that fix?
Well, last year I learned about the instant packs of coffee available at most mercados, even the little ones. I believe they are manufactured by Nestle, think Nescafé. Some of these even come with sugar and cream…
So if you carry a few of these around, in the am, before the sun comes up, you can get your coffee before you bail. With some caveats.
Let’s hope wherever u are staying has a microwave and mugs. Not always the case.
But for sure they will have hot water coming out of the tap… yes, desperate people sometimes require desperate measures.
Also, sometimes the stores only carry the decaf versions! Gasp. So I have substituted instant cappuccino instead.
@Damien Reynolds I am really not a nice person until I have had my coffee in the morning and I like to get up and walk early. My husband always walks about 50 paces behind me on these mornings until we find a place that has cafe con leche. I don't speak civilly until I have had my coffee con leche. One Camino day I had to walk 9 km to find an open bar with cafe con leche (somewhere on the meseta). I have tried instant coffee in my water bottle and it was no substitute. Frankly just being a grouch is the only option some days. I doubt if this response helps your cafe con leche quest, however, it may offer some explanation if you encounter a 60 year old woman with a blue backpack, white overshirt, and suncap with a neck drape cover who is sullen and unfriendly between the hours of 6 and 9 a.m. on the Camino.
Hi. My solution for this problem is to get a take away coffee the night before and basically drink it cold in morning if no microwave available. It's not Ideal but I get an incredible headache without my morning fix and this solution had saved me many mornings. I also love the experience of leaving early and walking as the sun risesSo at home I don’t even drink coffee. I also rarely rise early… but on the Camino, well, it’s different.
I look forward to the myriad of better suggestions surely/maybe to follow.
So back in 2005 my mother introduced me to Cafe con Leche. It’s now a Camino staple for me. I look forward to the temporary addiction available at every bar/cafe you will ever go to. It’s also a social thing… everyone almost always wants their coffee and when you sit together and get some, it’s fun.
But what if you like to wake up early to walk? Like I’m talking about before the sun comes up. I met some friends last year on the Camino who loved to get out before dawn.
See the thing is, nothing is open. No early morning coffee before a hike, which to some I imagine sounds kinda crazy. Remember, this is people who like to wear headlamps and walk early in the morning, before the rest of the world wakes up
So what do you do to get that fix?
Well, last year I learned about the instant packs of coffee available at most mercados, even the little ones. I believe they are manufactured by Nestle, think Nescafé. Some of these even come with sugar and cream…
So if you carry a few of these around, in the am, before the sun comes up, you can get your coffee before you bail. With some caveats.
Let’s hope wherever u are staying has a microwave and mugs. Not always the case.
But for sure they will have hot water coming out of the tap… yes, desperate people sometimes require desperate measures.
Also, sometimes the stores only carry the decaf versions! Gasp. So I have substituted instant cappuccino instead.
Starbucks Via is the best instant coffee IMO. However, I’d rather walk grumpily for 2 hrs to get a real coffee.So at home I don’t even drink coffee. I also rarely rise early… but on the Camino, well, it’s different.
I look forward to the myriad of better suggestions surely/maybe to follow.
So back in 2005 my mother introduced me to Cafe con Leche. It’s now a Camino staple for me. I look forward to the temporary addiction available at every bar/cafe you will ever go to. It’s also a social thing… everyone almost always wants their coffee and when you sit together and get some, it’s fun.
But what if you like to wake up early to walk? Like I’m talking about before the sun comes up. I met some friends last year on the Camino who loved to get out before dawn.
See the thing is, nothing is open. No early morning coffee before a hike, which to some I imagine sounds kinda crazy. Remember, this is people who like to wear headlamps and walk early in the morning, before the rest of the world wakes up
So what do you do to get that fix?
Well, last year I learned about the instant packs of coffee available at most mercados, even the little ones. I believe they are manufactured by Nestle, think Nescafé. Some of these even come with sugar and cream…
So if you carry a few of these around, in the am, before the sun comes up, you can get your coffee before you bail. With some caveats.
Let’s hope wherever u are staying has a microwave and mugs. Not always the case.
But for sure they will have hot water coming out of the tap… yes, desperate people sometimes require desperate measures.
Also, sometimes the stores only carry the decaf versions! Gasp. So I have substituted instant cappuccino instead.
Wow! Just learned of this device just now.What you need is a portable "Chorreador" and a bag of Costa Rican coffee
A chorreador is a coffee making device used in Costa Rica in which hot water is poured through coffee grounds held in a cloth filter mounted on a wooden stand that drips into a mug below.
Made a bunch of these as Christmas gifts a few years ago.
Maybe some creamer and hot water and you are good to go!
View attachment 121101 View attachment 121102
Immersion heaters are wonderful but tricky-- AND this one you posted has an adaptor for 240v. I once blew out an outlet forgetting that I need that adaptor!! Buen Camino!!We use one of these, as morning coffee is as necessary as lacing the boots. Caution: unplug before pulling out of liquid. We burned one out by exposing it to air when plugged in. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B001U0PA7M/?tag=casaivar02-20
So at home I don’t even drink coffee. I also rarely rise early… but on the Camino, well, it’s different.
I look forward to the myriad of better suggestions surely/maybe to follow.
So back in 2005 my mother introduced me to Cafe con Leche. It’s now a Camino staple for me. I look forward to the temporary addiction available at every bar/cafe you will ever go to. It’s also a social thing… everyone almost always wants their coffee and when you sit together and get some, it’s fun.
But what if you like to wake up early to walk? Like I’m talking about before the sun comes up. I met some friends last year on the Camino who loved to get out before dawn.
See the thing is, nothing is open. No early morning coffee before a hike, which to some I imagine sounds kinda crazy. Remember, this is people who like to wear headlamps and walk early in the morning, before the rest of the world wakes up
So what do you do to get that fix?
Well, last year I learned about the instant packs of coffee available at most mercados, even the little ones. I believe they are manufactured by Nestle, think Nescafé. Some of these even come with sugar and cream…
So if you carry a few of these around, in the am, before the sun comes up, you can get your coffee before you bail. With some caveats.
Let’s hope wherever u are staying has a microwave and mugs. Not always the case.
But for sure they will have hot water coming out of the tap… yes, desperate people sometimes require desperate measures.
Also, sometimes the stores only carry the decaf versions! Gasp. So I have substituted instant cappuccino instead.
Last fall, a member of our Camino family carried such a backpacking stove. On the few occasions we lacked a kitchen or breakfast source, she heated water for us. I ALWAYS carried packets of instant coffee and my own cup. I can't put into words how important coffee is to me in the morning. On those days, she saved my life! On my next Camino, I intend to carry an immersion heater just to be safe.In 2017 I took my jet boil and bought a canister of gas to heat my water every morning. That was 2 pounds that I added to my already too heavy pack. It was worth it though. This year, I am leaving the jet boil at home and bringing an electric water heater coil and my own very light cup in addition to the instant coffee. for just a few grams of weight I will get my coffee every morning when I wake up. I am also a very early riser.
Ditto. I never compromise on the quality of the coffee. I'll walk all day before I drink instant with hot water from the tap!I dislike black coffee and only drink one cup of coffee in the morning at home, and absolutely need it "laced" with half & half cream, turning it into a lovely caramel color, and a scant teaspoon of sugar.
I LOVE cafe con leche, and prefer to keep walking until I find a bar open. It's not a "fix" I need, I just enjoy the smooth, milky texture and flavor. I never have a caffeine headache, so no problem waiting for the real thing.
I have no idea about the elctrolyte levels but long ago began to seek out cortados-- one of my Spanish friends assures me that it is the best way to drink coffee.Another coffee aficionado here but partly bc having it prevents me from getting a migraine. I’d rather have coffee than a medication. That said, someone in these forums mentioned ‘cortado’ as being a good (caffeine+ electrolytes). Is that the same as cafe con leche?
Wow. How much does it weigh?What you need is a portable "Chorreador" and a bag of Costa Rican coffee
A chorreador is a coffee making device used in Costa Rica in which hot water is poured through coffee grounds held in a cloth filter mounted on a wooden stand that drips into a mug below.
Made a bunch of these as Christmas gifts a few years ago.
Maybe some creamer and hot water and you are good to go!
View attachment 121101 View attachment 121102
A cortado is equal parts (ish) espresso and milk. So a little less milk than a cafe con leche.Another coffee aficionado here but partly bc having it prevents me from getting a migraine. I’d rather have coffee than a medication. That said, someone in these forums mentioned ‘cortado’ as being a good (caffeine+ electrolytes). Is that the same as cafe con leche?
Since I intensely dislike coffee, if I feel the need to get a boost to early morning energy, I take a caffeine tablet. I go by the motto: "It's the caffeine I need, it's the coffee I can do without".
I don’t remember any negative posts about what you wrote.To those astounded or dismayed by my post, including those giving me 'Wow' feedback, you are in good company. My wife (Jill) and kids consider my dislike of coffee to be amusingly heretical.
One of my three boys, Jared, works at a Batdorf & Bronson Roastery shop in Olympia, Washington. He competes in Barista contests and is trained as a professional coffee roaster. When he drives to East Wenatchee to visit home, he always brings Jill a few bags of the freshly roasted and ground makings for the vile stuff
When Jill accompanied me on one of my camino pilgrimages (Ingles) she was every bit the Cafe con Leche zealot that can be found in this thread
Your post made me laugh, and reminded me of my sister.Sorry, but there is no substitute for "real coffee"...so I guess that makes me "impossible". So be it...
I always give fair warning to those attempting to be convivial in my pre-caffeinated presence:
"Look, it is NOT that I am not a 'morning person'. Rather, I am not even a person before imbibing of the nectar of the sacred bean. Look for me to be somewhat sociable after the first 'con leche' of the day. I will be conspicuous at the first bar today. Look for three cups at one chair..."
AND...I am rather surprised to see comments of coffee disaffection from contributors here that I have rather admired in the past. Ah well, we shall never party together!
B
I don’t remember any negative posts about what you wrote.
oh my gosh, I have the same need for a coffee first thing in the morning. My last camino I brought along an imersion coil, but it being the Frances, I only needed it a few times. Now I am leaving for the VDLP april 8th and decided to bring it again. There won't be the multiple cafe options this time around so I know I will be using my coil. I also bring several Starbucks Via packets along and will replenish with whatever brand I find in Spain, along with a very lightweight mug.So at home I don’t even drink coffee. I also rarely rise early… but on the Camino, well, it’s different.
I look forward to the myriad of better suggestions surely/maybe to follow.
So back in 2005 my mother introduced me to Cafe con Leche. It’s now a Camino staple for me. I look forward to the temporary addiction available at every bar/cafe you will ever go to. It’s also a social thing… everyone almost always wants their coffee and when you sit together and get some, it’s fun.
But what if you like to wake up early to walk? Like I’m talking about before the sun comes up. I met some friends last year on the Camino who loved to get out before dawn.
See the thing is, nothing is open. No early morning coffee before a hike, which to some I imagine sounds kinda crazy. Remember, this is people who like to wear headlamps and walk early in the morning, before the rest of the world wakes up
So what do you do to get that fix?
Well, last year I learned about the instant packs of coffee available at most mercados, even the little ones. I believe they are manufactured by Nestle, think Nescafé. Some of these even come with sugar and cream…
So if you carry a few of these around, in the am, before the sun comes up, you can get your coffee before you bail. With some caveats.
Let’s hope wherever u are staying has a microwave and mugs. Not always the case.
But for sure they will have hot water coming out of the tap… yes, desperate people sometimes require desperate measures.
Also, sometimes the stores only carry the decaf versions! Gasp. So I have substituted instant cappuccino instead.
Good idea to bring stuff on the VDLP. Bad ass.oh my gosh, I have the same need for a coffee first thing in the morning. My last camino I brought along an imersion coil, but it being the Frances, I only needed it a few times. Now I am leaving for the VDLP april 8th and decided to bring it again. There won't be the multiple cafe options this time around so I know I will be using my coil. I also bring several Starbucks Via packets along and will replenish with whatever brand I find in Spain, along with a very lightweight mug.
Normally, When the albergue did not have breakfast, I would walk to the next town usually within an hour or two, and order my camino breakfast-Coffee and a croissant; many times I would also splurge and get the orange juice, which was squeezed right in front of you.( Cant beat the taste of fresh squeezed Orange juice). Something special, about sitting down in a local cafe, drinking a cup of coffee, and watching other pilgrims entering after you. Watching the world go by, but getting ready to be a part of it. Buen Camino!So at home I don’t even drink coffee. I also rarely rise early… but on the Camino, well, it’s different.
I look forward to the myriad of better suggestions surely/maybe to follow.
So back in 2005 my mother introduced me to Cafe con Leche. It’s now a Camino staple for me. I look forward to the temporary addiction available at every bar/cafe you will ever go to. It’s also a social thing… everyone almost always wants their coffee and when you sit together and get some, it’s fun.
But what if you like to wake up early to walk? Like I’m talking about before the sun comes up. I met some friends last year on the Camino who loved to get out before dawn.
See the thing is, nothing is open. No early morning coffee before a hike, which to some I imagine sounds kinda crazy. Remember, this is people who like to wear headlamps and walk early in the morning, before the rest of the world wakes up
So what do you do to get that fix?
Well, last year I learned about the instant packs of coffee available at most mercados, even the little ones. I believe they are manufactured by Nestle, think Nescafé. Some of these even come with sugar and cream…
So if you carry a few of these around, in the am, before the sun comes up, you can get your coffee before you bail. With some caveats.
Let’s hope wherever u are staying has a microwave and mugs. Not always the case.
But for sure they will have hot water coming out of the tap… yes, desperate people sometimes require desperate measures.
Also, sometimes the stores only carry the decaf versions! Gasp. So I have substituted instant cappuccino instead.
Ok, just to be sure. I agree with everything you said. Nothing better than hanging out with the friends met or to be met. Still tho, I like my coffee right quick.Normally, When the albergue did not have breakfast, I would walk to the next town usually within an hour or two, and order my camino breakfast-Coffee and a croissant; many times I would also splurge and get the orange juice, which was squeezed right in front of you.( Cant beat the taste of fresh squeezed Orange juice). Something special, about sitting down in a local cafe, drinking a cup of coffee, and watching other pilgrims entering after you. Watching the world go by, but getting ready to be a part of it. Buen Camino!
Not having something hot to drink before starting out at 6:00 a.m. was the hardest part of my '16 trip. In '17, I purchased a small, 12 oz, hot/cold thermos. I filled it each evening with coffee, Americana. It stayed warm enough for me to enjoy it the following morning.So at home I don’t even drink coffee. I also rarely rise early… but on the Camino, well, it’s different.
I look forward to the myriad of better suggestions surely/maybe to follow.
So back in 2005 my mother introduced me to Cafe con Leche. It’s now a Camino staple for me. I look forward to the temporary addiction available at every bar/cafe you will ever go to. It’s also a social thing… everyone almost always wants their coffee and when you sit together and get some, it’s fun.
But what if you like to wake up early to walk? Like I’m talking about before the sun comes up. I met some friends last year on the Camino who loved to get out before dawn.
See the thing is, nothing is open. No early morning coffee before a hike, which to some I imagine sounds kinda crazy. Remember, this is people who like to wear headlamps and walk early in the morning, before the rest of the world wakes up
So what do you do to get that fix?
Well, last year I learned about the instant packs of coffee available at most mercados, even the little ones. I believe they are manufactured by Nestle, think Nescafé. Some of these even come with sugar and cream…
So if you carry a few of these around, in the am, before the sun comes up, you can get your coffee before you bail. With some caveats.
Let’s hope wherever u are staying has a microwave and mugs. Not always the case.
But for sure they will have hot water coming out of the tap… yes, desperate people sometimes require desperate measures.
Also, sometimes the stores only carry the decaf versions! Gasp. So I have substituted instant cappuccino instead.
I purchased a mug and a heating coil to add to our Camino supplies one each for myself and daughter for this very reason as she always has to start her day with a coffee. The mug only weighs 3.5 oz, has a flip lid and sleeve and the coil heats up super fast just never remove it from the water until you unplug it or it blows the element. Worth every penny!So at home I don’t even drink coffee. I also rarely rise early… but on the Camino, well, it’s different.
I look forward to the myriad of better suggestions surely/maybe to follow.
So back in 2005 my mother introduced me to Cafe con Leche. It’s now a Camino staple for me. I look forward to the temporary addiction available at every bar/cafe you will ever go to. It’s also a social thing… everyone almost always wants their coffee and when you sit together and get some, it’s fun.
But what if you like to wake up early to walk? Like I’m talking about before the sun comes up. I met some friends last year on the Camino who loved to get out before dawn.
See the thing is, nothing is open. No early morning coffee before a hike, which to some I imagine sounds kinda crazy. Remember, this is people who like to wear headlamps and walk early in the morning, before the rest of the world wakes up
So what do you do to get that fix?
Well, last year I learned about the instant packs of coffee available at most mercados, even the little ones. I believe they are manufactured by Nestle, think Nescafé. Some of these even come with sugar and cream…
So if you carry a few of these around, in the am, before the sun comes up, you can get your coffee before you bail. With some caveats.
Let’s hope wherever u are staying has a microwave and mugs. Not always the case.
But for sure they will have hot water coming out of the tap… yes, desperate people sometimes require desperate measures.
Also, sometimes the stores only carry the decaf versions! Gasp. So I have substituted instant cappuccino instead.
Most albergues have microwaves if nothing else. I use the microwave to boil water in a Sea to Summit collapsible cup with a coffee sachet.I have collected a suitable quantity of instant coffee sachets, and I am contemplating adding a small immersion heater to my packing list, as well as coffee whitener. I can hear the howls from the coffee aficionados already, but I would rather have a coffee (and a couple of pieces of fruit) before I start walking if there isn't anything available when I start.
Some time after an hour of walking, I will be looking for an open bar for breakfast, or second breakfast if the place where I stayed has served a basic breakfast.
I recall the morning I left Terradillos de los Templarios early, and arriving at San Nicholas just before 8:30. Another pilgrim and I detoured to find the local bar, only to find it closed. The other pilgrim stormed off in a huff of invective, but I decided to take a few minutes off my feet. Almost exactly at 8:30, there was the sounds of activity coming from the bar, the door opened, and a head emerged to look around at what the fuss might have been. Too late to shout at the pilgrim who had walked out of sight, but I did enjoy my breakfast.
Thinking about it though Costa , Nero and Starbucks here in the UK don't know how to make a Cafe Con Leche, roll on Saturday in Valcarlos where I can enjoy a mug full while on my comfort break it be worth the weight in goldYes you can find the coffee sachets in Spain from most of the stores you come across even the corner shops which sell groceries should have them
To be honest, I could get all pedantic on the similarities and differences between the cortado and the con leche...but I won't because no one deserves that kind of treatment without long familiarity.Another coffee aficionado here but partly bc having it prevents me from getting a migraine. I’d rather have coffee than a medication. That said, someone in these forums mentioned ‘cortado’ as being a good (caffeine+ electrolytes). Is that the same as cafe con leche?
Well, as it happens, I DO have my own view...Ok so contrary view here. The only civilised way to start your day is tea. There is nothing better.
After a meal black coffee. Not instant. No milk.
Other people will have their own views!
I rather suspect that in Spain, milk is scalded, rather than just steamed. There are a lot of health reasons to do so if one isn't using pasteurised milk. Noting that most places seemed to be using UHT, that isn't as compelling a reason as it might once have been. I think this contributes to the unique flavour of a good cafe con leche.Suffice to say that the cortado is slightly more tilted toward milk than con leche and that is about the sum total of difference between them.
Hmm ..., I can think of more civilised ways of starting one's day than either tea or coffee!The only civilised way to start your day is tea.
I use a silicone collapsible cup and coffee sachets. Most albergues have a microwave if nothing else.So at home I don’t even drink coffee. I also rarely rise early… but on the Camino, well, it’s different.
I look forward to the myriad of better suggestions surely/maybe to follow.
So back in 2005 my mother introduced me to Cafe con Leche. It’s now a Camino staple for me. I look forward to the temporary addiction available at every bar/cafe you will ever go to. It’s also a social thing… everyone almost always wants their coffee and when you sit together and get some, it’s fun.
But what if you like to wake up early to walk? Like I’m talking about before the sun comes up. I met some friends last year on the Camino who loved to get out before dawn.
See the thing is, nothing is open. No early morning coffee before a hike, which to some I imagine sounds kinda crazy. Remember, this is people who like to wear headlamps and walk early in the morning, before the rest of the world wakes up
So what do you do to get that fix?
Well, last year I learned about the instant packs of coffee available at most mercados, even the little ones. I believe they are manufactured by Nestle, think Nescafé. Some of these even come with sugar and cream…
So if you carry a few of these around, in the am, before the sun comes up, you can get your coffee before you bail. With some caveats.
Let’s hope wherever u are staying has a microwave and mugs. Not always the case.
But for sure they will have hot water coming out of the tap… yes, desperate people sometimes require desperate measures.
Also, sometimes the stores only carry the decaf versions! Gasp. So I have substituted instant cappuccino instead.
FINALLY — someone on this thread who is eligible for induction into the Electric Coil Club!This year, I am leaving the jet boil at home and bringing an electric water heater coil and my own very light cup in addition to the instant coffee.
Those little pouch things are sold on Amazon. I bought some and they are good! Cup has to be high enough so the pouch isn't in the water when dripping. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0777VCXKL/?tag=casaivar02-20In the UK, Taylors of Harrogate sells ground coffee (not instant coffee) in sachets, much like tea bags. I hope where I will be staying will have amenities to boil water and a cup! I also have collapsible camping cups but was told in this forum that it’s not necessary to bring.
In Japan and Germany (possibly other countries too of course), there is a kind of pouch with little cardboard feet that clips onto your cup, you open the top of the pouch (which contains coffee) and pour hot water. So it’s like filter coffee for backpackers.
My son works for Starbucks. Have placed an order with him for 20 Via packets to ensure I am covered. Very interested in ideas for a cup that works with the immersion heater?Blasphemy!
Are the Nescafe or similar singles easily available in Spain? I have a little immersion heater as well. Haven't decided on the cup yet.....
I have a BPA-free cup with some kind of insulation around it. Something like this one.My son works for Starbucks. Have placed an order with him for 20 Via packets to ensure I am covered. Very interested in ideas for a cup that works with the immersion heater?
I rarely ever eat before noon but do appreciate coffee shortly after waking so a stroll to a bar/cafe is fine with me. Also since I’m walking in June-July, starting early to miss some heat is a plan.Cant say for the Norte, but I cant recall seeing a coffee maker, and in fact very rarely even saw an electric kettle in a room at a Casa Rural, Hostal etc.
Also dont count on there being cups, utensils etc.
I had such a pleasant surprise to find one in a hotel in Bilbao - I was ecstatic - the joy of being able to make a hot drink when you feel like it.
If you hire an apartment they usually have the kettle, washing machine etc.
I normally walk early to miss the heat, in the morning by the time I walked to the next village there were usually cafes/bars open. I seldom had to walk on to the next. Usually somewhere between 5-8 kms. Enough so that by the time I got there I really appreciated it. I think the only stretch where there wasnt a cafe/bar open was a stretch on the Meseta - where it was several villages before coffee.
Occasionally there was a cafe open just minutes down the road.
I almost never do breakfast in the albergue, I think I did it twice in 2016 (rookie mistake), regretted it both times. I prefer to walk out the door and walk toward coffee and breakfast.
Ok - so I walked the Norte in Sept. 2021 during Covid. I can’t say for sure the timing, because a lot of it depends on where you are specifically. Think city vs. village. I’d say, generally you’ll be good by 9ish for sure. The “ish” part is because this is Spain not Switzerland. Cities earlier, mostly I think.As a pilgrim-to-be who really needs coffee in the morning but doesn’t feel the need to be out the door before sunrise - what time will I find places that sell coffee be open? And if I am ever staying at a casa rural or hotel, will I ever have a coffee maker in my room? Just need to set my expectations, please
I should add that I’ll be on the Norte.
Thanks - REI order pick up tomorrow!I have a BPA-free cup with some kind of insulation around it. Something like this one.
GSI Outdoors Infinity Backpacker Mug | REI Co-op
A handy vessel with a spill-resistant top, the GSI Outdoors Infinity Backpacker mug is crafted from durable polypropylene and wrapped with an insulating sleeve to help keep your camp coffee hot.www.rei.com
The coil will not melt the inside of the cup so long as the heating element is immersed in water. If you hook the coil over the cup, for instance, it will melt it. As me how I know this.
Lots of outdoor places sell titanium cups, but they will burn your lips unless you get some kind of a protector. And I don’t know what the advantage of a titanium cup would be anyway.
And the electric coil mantra always bears repeating — Always make sure the coil is immersed in water both when you plug it in and when you unplug it.
Hmmm, second cup of coffee tastes so much better after walking a few hours.A coffee tastes so much better if you had to walk a few hours to get one... or a few days. You really learn to appreciate things when you don't have them available 24/7.
Looking at the amount of posts on this thread, that's probably not a popular opinion, though.
I like to get out early so often, I do not get my coffee. Have like you tried little packs but as you say not everywhere has the facility to heat water. One little solution I found in one city was a little bakery right on the Camino route out of Pamplona. Don't know what made me look in but I spotted the coffee machine in the back. So fresh coffee and still warm croissant for breakfast. Fortunately or unfortunately for the owner, I left my pack at the door which attracted other early starts and by the time I left the place was packed and it really was a very small narrow establishment. Had to recount that as it is one of my favourite memories. Otherwise, I just walked till I found somewhere open and on the way out of Virgen del Camino, it was a couple of villages before breakfast. Sat at a picnic table outside a closed bar with water and a biscuit to keep me going. Btw, before my first Camino, I hated coffee, now I love it and had a cafe con leche just an hour or two before writing this. Yes, I do make my ownSo at home I don’t even drink coffee. I also rarely rise early… but on the Camino, well, it’s different.
I look forward to the myriad of better suggestions surely/maybe to follow.
So back in 2005 my mother introduced me to Cafe con Leche. It’s now a Camino staple for me. I look forward to the temporary addiction available at every bar/cafe you will ever go to. It’s also a social thing… everyone almost always wants their coffee and when you sit together and get some, it’s fun.
But what if you like to wake up early to walk? Like I’m talking about before the sun comes up. I met some friends last year on the Camino who loved to get out before dawn.
See the thing is, nothing is open. No early morning coffee before a hike, which to some I imagine sounds kinda crazy. Remember, this is people who like to wear headlamps and walk early in the morning, before the rest of the world wakes up
So what do you do to get that fix?
Well, last year I learned about the instant packs of coffee available at most mercados, even the little ones. I believe they are manufactured by Nestle, think Nescafé. Some of these even come with sugar and cream…
So if you carry a few of these around, in the am, before the sun comes up, you can get your coffee before you bail. With some caveats.
Let’s hope wherever u are staying has a microwave and mugs. Not always the case.
But for sure they will have hot water coming out of the tap… yes, desperate people sometimes require desperate measures.
Also, sometimes the stores only carry the decaf versions! Gasp. So I have substituted instant cappuccino instead.
Trust me. Whoever the proprietor of the joint was appreciated the attention you attracted.I like to get out early so often, I do not get my coffee. Have like you tried little packs but as you say not everywhere has the facility to heat water. One little solution I found in one city was a little bakery right on the Camino route out of Pamplona. Don't know what made me look in but I spotted the coffee machine in the back. So fresh coffee and still warm croissant for breakfast. Fortunately or unfortunately for the owner, I left my pack at the door which attracted other early starts and by the time I left the place was packed and it really was a very small narrow establishment. Had to recount that as it is one of my favourite memories. Otherwise, I just walked till I found somewhere open and on the way out of Virgen del Camino, it was a couple of villages before breakfast. Sat at a picnic table outside a closed bar with water and a biscuit to keep me going. Btw, before my first Camino, I hated coffee, now I love it and had a cafe con leche just an hour or two before writing this. Yes, I do make my own
He probably did but maybe his regulars did not. There were locals coming in and making orders then leaving others walked in and without a word were handed a bag of the produce. But as I left, they were having to push past the crowd. The place was so small that 3 or 4 was a crowd and when I pushed my way out, there were about 8 pilgrims crammed inTrust me. Whoever the proprietor of the joint was appreciated the attention you attracted.
I'm with you there!OK, I have a confession to make. I need my first cup of coffee in the morning before i can THINK! I'm bringing a travel hot water maker, instant coffee, coffee mate packets, a cup, and my truvia! I am sending my bag ahead so I am ok on weight. I'll get my second cup of the morning after walking whatever KM's!
I am barely compos mentis in the morning until after that first large mug of coffee. I've walked many caminos and this is what I discovered: My wife and I pop up before dawn, head out and walk until we find the first open bar/cafe. That's usually several hours later. We usually get an espresso first to wake up, then a larger coffee to have with a tortilla espanola. Suddenly, we are totally conscious...and delighted to realize that we have already walked perhaps 6 miles. Amazing. We then truly enjoy the rest of the day with our senses heightened, our mind absorbing everything around us and feeling totally human, spiritual...and alive.So at home I don’t even drink coffee. I also rarely rise early… but on the Camino, well, it’s different.
I look forward to the myriad of better suggestions surely/maybe to follow.
So back in 2005 my mother introduced me to Cafe con Leche. It’s now a Camino staple for me. I look forward to the temporary addiction available at every bar/cafe you will ever go to. It’s also a social thing… everyone almost always wants their coffee and when you sit together and get some, it’s fun.
But what if you like to wake up early to walk? Like I’m talking about before the sun comes up. I met some friends last year on the Camino who loved to get out before dawn.
See the thing is, nothing is open. No early morning coffee before a hike, which to some I imagine sounds kinda crazy. Remember, this is people who like to wear headlamps and walk early in the morning, before the rest of the world wakes up
So what do you do to get that fix?
Well, last year I learned about the instant packs of coffee available at most mercados, even the little ones. I believe they are manufactured by Nestle, think Nescafé. Some of these even come with sugar and cream…
So if you carry a few of these around, in the am, before the sun comes up, you can get your coffee before you bail. With some caveats.
Let’s hope wherever u are staying has a microwave and mugs. Not always the case.
But for sure they will have hot water coming out of the tap… yes, desperate people sometimes require desperate measures.
Also, sometimes the stores only carry the decaf versions! Gasp. So I have substituted instant cappuccino instead.
I have this mug, too..it's been occasionally used as a dog dish...I have a BPA-free cup with some kind of insulation around it. Something like this one.
GSI Outdoors Infinity Backpacker Mug | REI Co-op
A handy vessel with a spill-resistant top, the GSI Outdoors Infinity Backpacker mug is crafted from durable polypropylene and wrapped with an insulating sleeve to help keep your camp coffee hot.www.rei.com
The coil will not melt the inside of the cup so long as the heating element is immersed in water. If you hook the coil over the cup, for instance, it will melt it. As me how I know this.
Lots of outdoor places sell titanium cups, but they will burn your lips unless you get some kind of a protector. And I don’t know what the advantage of a titanium cup would be anyway.
And the electric coil mantra always bears repeating — Always make sure the coil is immersed in water both when you plug it in and when you unplug it.
You must have a small dog.I have this mug, too..it's been occasionally used as a dog dish...
Nope, just big, patient ones!You must have a small dog.
I have that same mug as well and it's been on a lot oh hikes and it just lasts. I will have to keep the coil mantra in my head as I get back into using it! Thanks for the reminder.I have a BPA-free cup with some kind of insulation around it. Something like this one.
GSI Outdoors Infinity Backpacker Mug | REI Co-op
A handy vessel with a spill-resistant top, the GSI Outdoors Infinity Backpacker mug is crafted from durable polypropylene and wrapped with an insulating sleeve to help keep your camp coffee hot.www.rei.com
The coil will not melt the inside of the cup so long as the heating element is immersed in water. If you hook the coil over the cup, for instance, it will melt it. As me how I know this.
Lots of outdoor places sell titanium cups, but they will burn your lips unless you get some kind of a protector. And I don’t know what the advantage of a titanium cup would be anyway.
And the electric coil mantra always bears repeating — Always make sure the coil is immersed in water both when you plug it in and when you unplug it.
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