Getting to know you!

[abbie mercurio]

Hi I’m starting my Camino in SJPDP on? Sept 10/22. I walked the CF in 2012. I’m super excited. Does anyone have an opinion on the solar umbrella? What about a SIM card vs international plan? And , making reservations at albergues through What’s App. Thanks to all. Abbie

 

[C clearly]

Welcome to the forum, @abbie mercurio. We have a lot of information here, but sometimes it is hard to find!

If you would like to have your name added to the list of people starting in September, go to this thread and add your information in a new post at the bottom. You can see who else might start at the same time.

If you are asking about using umbrellas for sun shade, here are some threads tagged with "rain/sun protection" or you can search for "umbrella" in the Search box.

Information on phones and SIM cards can be found under Equipment, tagged with "phones & electronics". There will be discussions of WhatsApp in those same threads, as well.

 

[Camino Chrissy]

We have a lot of information here, but sometimes it is hard to find!

@C clearly, both you and @trecile are really good at helping the newbies to get acclimated to the forum by providing helpful/valuable information to assist in answering their questions.

 

[lt56ny]

@C clearly, both you and @trecile are really good at helping the newbies to get acclimated to the forum by providing helpful/valuable information to assist in answering their questions.

You aren't so bad yourself in that department!

 

[JerryStroebele]

My Zpacks UV umbrella weighs 6.8 ounces. $45. I wouldn't leave home without it. Carry your own shade. Keep the rain off your upper body without having to button up your head and neck. Buy two of the umbrella holsters to keep it from bouncing around. Buen Camino.

 

[Camino Chrissy]

You aren't so bad yourself in that department!

I do try to help, but I am mostly referring to their additional good techy skills and capabilities, including the time they spend researching answers, which takes patience to provide links as necessary.

 

[lt56ny]

I do try to help, but I am mostly referring to their additional good techy skills and capabilities, including the time they spend researching answers, which takes patience to provide links as necessary.

I know you were and they along with the other moderators and a select few have a wealth of knowledge we are all thankful for. But people like you bring just an additional amount of experience, advice and maybe a different perspective that is fun to read, think about and help new and veteran pilgrims alike.

 

[abbie mercurio]

Thank you for the reply to my question regarding the sun umbrella. BTW do you happen to know if I am able to take it on the plane in my bag pack. My pack is small, 28L, and the umbrella will stick out about 2 inches. I’m flying from Charlotte tomorrow to Madrid. And…. Now that I’m here… I leave SJPDP to start walking on 9/10/22. I would love to meet up the night before with anyone on the same schedule. Thanks all who may weigh in on this. Abbie Mercurio

 

[JerryStroebele]

Don’t know. I check my umbrella, trek pole (just one) and my Opinel folding knife in a box or throw away suitcase. I always carry onboard my backpack with essentials. Wear my boots. If I had to pay extra for checked bag I would just buy the stuff in Madrid. Lots of good options there on Calle Ribera de Curtidores. Buen Camino