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Search 69,459 Camino Questions

I don't want to just be an 'Extra' in someone else's Camino...

Robo

Veteran Member
Time of past OR future Camino
Frances 15,16,18
VdlP 23, Invierno 23, Fisterra 23
As the time nears for my first Camino, the time seems to be slowing down..... It's like being a kid waiting for Christmas. But at least I still have time (76 sleeps) for more training and preparation.

Now please don't be upset by this thread title. It's not meant to sound arrogant or inflammatory. Let me put it into context. It's just an 'alternative' view...

My Camino is going to be my Camino. It may be the only one I get to do. So I'll do it my way.

That means no Albergues unless I have to, leaving an stopping when I want to, without being part of the bed race, walking at my own pace, probably mostly alone, as I want time to reflect. I'm sorry but I'm not into enforced communal living and socialising. I can think of nothing worse.

I'm quite a social animal when I want/need to be, but equally happy with just my own company. And I don't make friends easily, through choice. (there are probably some underlying reasons for that).

Who knows, I may change during the Camino, and I'm more than happy to accept what comes. I have readily faced many significant challenges in my life and sometimes ended up enjoying them. So I don't move through the World totally blinkered to new possibilities and experiences. Quite the opposite in fact.

So my preference at least at this stage, is for privacy, a degree of just being with me. I know this might be hard on the CF, but I know many say it's possible in a virtual sense, to walk alone. I probably should walk a different Camino perhaps...

But the CF it's going to be.

So there is one point and one question here.

The point is, for most Pilgrims it seems the social aspects are one of the most enjoyable elements. And that's great. I totally get it. Please just accept that there are others for whom this might not be the case. And if I choose to walk and eat alone some days, it might just be that I prefer to. You walk your Camino in the manner you prefer, and I'll walk mine..... Don't look upon me as being 'alone' and 'needing' company....

And don't worry, I'm not such a 'loner' that if I pass you and you need help, that I won't stop to help! I'm not totally anti social! (and vice versa of course)

The Question is this. The more I read about the last 100km from Sarria, the more I worry that my Camino will end, at least emotionally, right there. I even read a blog by one of our members, where he suggested that next time he would skip the last 100 km.

So my question is this. Is it possible to skip over to a less travelled Camino for the last 100 km? Where would you skip to?

I suppose the other alternative is to just jump ahead to Santiago and forget the final 100 km. And then maybe walk to Muxia? (I'm not really concerned about the Compostella)

Who knows, maybe by the time I reach Sarria, if I make it that far, I'll enjoy the crowds and the noise..... But somehow I doubt it.....
 
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So I'll do it my way... But the CF it's going to be... The point is, for most Pilgrims it seems the social aspects are one of the most enjoyable elements. Please just accept that there are others for whom this might not be the case. The more I read about the last 100km from Sarria, the more I worry that my Camino will end, at least emotionally, right there. So my question is this. Is it possible to skip over to a less travelled Camino for the last 100 km? Where would you skip to? I suppose the other alternative is to just jump ahead to Santiago and forget the final 100 km. And then maybe walk to Muxia? (I'm not really concerned about the Compostella) .

Is it YOUR Camino, or THE Camino? Seams to me you want to walk in oblivion of what is going around you, yet you are adamant about walking the Disney Trail (CF). There are many many trails to walk on around the world what are not the Camino.

As far as I am concerned, if you chose to walk CF, you have to accept ALL that comes with it. Including loud, careless people, anywhere along the CF that will burst your bubble and scare birds and frog away.

And the true lessons of the CF is how abruptly the false impression you have of having discovered THE TRUTH, of how superfical your 'Camino""""" Family"""" actually is.

You chose to skip that part to remain in a false honeymoon fase is? You have not walked.
 
Technical backpack for day trips with backpack cover and internal compartment for the hydration bladder. Ideal daypack for excursions where we need a medium capacity backpack. The back with Air Flow System creates large air channels that will keep our back as cool as possible.

€83,-
Is it YOUR Camino, or THE Camino? Seams to me you want to walk in oblivion of what is going around you, yet you are adamant about walking the Disney Trail (CF). There are many many trails to walk on around the world what are not the Camino.

As far as I am concerned, if you chose to walk CF, you have to accept ALL that comes with it. Including loud, careless people, anywhere along the CF that will burst your bubble and scare birds and frog away.

And the true lessons of the CF is how abruptly the false impression you have of having discovered THE TRUTH, of how superfical your 'Camino""""" Family"""" actually is.

You chose to skip that part to remain in a false honeymoon fase is? You have not walked.

All good points you raise. As you say, I suspect having to deal with daily life on the Camino is all part of the learning experience...

I certainly don't view it as a Disney Trail. I have undertaken gruelling long distance hikes in a previous life. So to a degree I can imagine some of the physical and emotional challenges I'll face.

And up to this point, dealing with the last 100km, I was looking upon as yet another lesson. Just thought an alternative final 100km might be a viable option.

I was somewhat hesitant to post this, and quite understand that I will be in for a fair degree of criticism but I think it might raise some interesting feedback. So what the heck...

Appreciate your feedback.
 
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So my question is this. Is it possible to skip over to a less travelled Camino for the last 100 km? Where would you skip to?
You can do what you wish, but if you want the compostella, you must walk the last 100km if you are walking. It could be from anywhere - Ferrol, Lugo, etc, etc, even go out to Finisterre and walk back via Muxia if you don't want to walk from Sarria. Its your choice.

I walked the CI and out to Finisterre via Muxia. Both are delightful walks. Others will be able to tell you about other ways of doing this.
 
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All good points you raise. As you say, I suspect having to deal with daily life on the Camino is all part of the learning experience...
And getting to Santiago and have your bubble burst is not easy, far from it, but part of it.
 
As far as I am concerned, if you chose to walk CF, you have to accept ALL that comes with it. Including loud, careless people, anywhere along the CF that will burst your bubble and scare birds and frog away.
I think you could say that for any walk, not just the CF. If @Robo wants to avoid the leg from Sarria, there are other ways, including deviating from the CF earlier if he has the time and inclination. I must admit, after the first day from Sarria, things calmed down quite a lot, and much of the camaraderie of the earlier stages returned, albeit with a lot more people at bars, albergues, etc. On the first day, it was quite disruptive with so many people on the trail. After that, they had spread out and I didn't notice that much difference when I was walking. I could walk alone, or in company if I chose.
 
Hi, Robo,
In recent years, my Caminos have been on very untravelled routes -- Vadiniense, Madrid, Invierno, Levante, and this year Catalan, so I understand your concerns about the last 100 kms. Last year, when I got to Ponferrada after walking alone for most of the Camino Olvidado, I just felt an urge to end all the alone time. I had planned to walk the Invierno, but decided I wanted to see more peope, so I decided to stick with the Frances from Ponferrada to Santiago. I hadn't been on that part of the Camino in years and I was a bit apprehensive about the crowds, etc. But I was surprised. It was fine. It's easy to avoid the crowds by not staying in the main places, and I did that, though sometimes I called ahead to get a bed in a private place in a crowded spot like O Cebreiro. And I had forgotten how beautiful the scenery is. I've walked all the routes into Santiago, and the last part of the Frances is just as beautiful as any of them, in fact I think I'd say it is the most beautiful. I was walking in high season, since I arrived in Santiago for the Saint's feast day, which is wild and crazy, but I never really felt that mad rush.

As Kiwi says, you can always switch over to another camino, but my bet is that you will find that the Frances is everything you are hoping it will be. Looking forward to hearing how it goes for you! Buen camino, Laurie
 
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On the first day, it was quite disruptive with so many people on the trail. After that, they had spread out and I didn't notice that much difference when I was walking. I could walk alone, or in company if I chose.

Good to hear...
 
As Kiwi says, you can always switch over to another camino, but my bet is that you will find that the Frances is everything you are hoping it will be. Looking forward to hearing how it goes for you! Buen camino, Laurie

Thanks Laurie. I'm sure you're right. Too much time on my hands and too much thinking.... :)
 
Go ahead and walk the last 100 km. You'll be alright. It's really not that bad, especially if you plan on staying in private accommodations. As with a lot of other topics on this forum, I think it get's blown a little out of proportion here.
 
The 2024 Camino guides will be coming out little by little. Here is a collection of the ones that are out so far.
Robo. hello - you must do your own Camino, of course - how else could it be ... though .... it seems, from your post, that you have already decided exactly what and how your Camino will be - and you aren't even there yet!
I think it was Lennon who said that God laughs at our plans ... so don't be too surprised when the Camino takes over your life and gives you an utterly different experience from what you have planned it will be.

Robo, what manifests in our lives, what is presented to each of us, is not random, not chaos, not co-incidence, but is always a teacher, a lesson, a sometimes very painful insight into ourselves, and always of what we specifically need to become more fully human, more complete, more loving - what manifests, what we are presented with, will be mirrored in those unhealed aspects of your inner self, that is why they manifest ...
you write "not into enforced communal living and socialising. I can think of nothing worse." and "I don't make friends easily, through choice. (there are probably some underlying reasons for that)." - and this shows how you see this aspect of your world, how you have lived this life so far - I think you may find that this isolated way you have had to live your life to protect your inner self will be confronted and will be put fully into your pilgrim life .. that you may be faced with it - and this could be the very reason your are called to Camino - when it comes, and I think that it will come, jump in the deep end, all will be well and you will be much the better for it - surrender Robo, surrender.

As for "skipping" - why? Do you want instant gratification? Do you skip most of the book so you can enjoy the resolution in the last chapter? Do you only watch the last ten minutes of a film? Don't skip Robo, every day of it, every section of it, is a process ... the external day to day being merely the stage you walk upon whilst the inner pilgrimage takes place.
As for privacy - privacy is within, not without ...

Throw your plans out the window Robo - take your first step and just carry on from there, no plans, no restrictions, no withdrawal ... go on pilgrimage - all is well.

Just my own opinion, my own outlook on this world we appear to be part of - Buen Camino
 
Robo. hello - you must do your own Camino, of course - how else could it be ... though .... it seems, from your post, that you have already decided exactly what and how your Camino will be - and you aren't even there yet!
I think it was Lennon who said that God laughs at our plans ... so don't be too surprised when the Camino takes over your life and gives you an utterly different experience from what you have planned it will be.

Robo, what manifests in our lives, what is presented to each of us, is not random, not chaos, not co-incidence, but is always a teacher, a lesson, a sometimes very painful insight into ourselves, and always of what we specifically need to become more fully human, more complete, more loving - what manifests, what we are presented with, will be mirrored in those unhealed aspects of your inner self, that is why they manifest ...
you write "not into enforced communal living and socialising. I can think of nothing worse." and "I don't make friends easily, through choice. (there are probably some underlying reasons for that)." - and this shows how you see this aspect of your world, how you have lived this life so far - I think you may find that this isolated way you have had to live your life to protect your inner self will be confronted and will be put fully into your pilgrim life .. that you may be faced with it - and this could be the very reason your are called to Camino - when it comes, and I think that it will come, jump in the deep end, all will be well and you will be much the better for it - surrender Robo, surrender.

As for "skipping" - why? Do you want instant gratification? Do you skip most of the book so you can enjoy the resolution in the last chapter? Do you only watch the last ten minutes of a film? Don't skip Robo, every day of it, every section of it, is a process ... the external day to day being merely the stage you walk upon whilst the inner pilgrimage takes place.
As for privacy - privacy is within, not without ...

Throw your plans out the window Robo - take your first step and just carry on from there, no plans, no restrictions, no withdrawal ... go on pilgrimage - all is well.

Just my own opinion, my own outlook on this world we appear to be part of - Buen Camino

Wise words David. And I'm sure you're right. Thank You.
 
A selection of Camino Jewellery
As the time nears for my first Camino, the time seems to be slowing down..... It's like being a kid waiting for Christmas. But at least I still have time (76 sleeps) for more training and preparation.

Now please don't be upset by this thread title. It's not meant to sound arrogant or inflammatory. Let me put it into context. It's just an 'alternative' view...

My Camino is going to be my Camino. It may be the only one I get to do. So I'll do it my way.

That means no Albergues unless I have to, leaving an stopping when I want to, without being part of the bed race, walking at my own pace, probably mostly alone, as I want time to reflect. I'm sorry but I'm not into enforced communal living and socialising. I can think of nothing worse.

I'm quite a social animal when I want/need to be, but equally happy with just my own company. And I don't make friends easily, through choice. (there are probably some underlying reasons for that).

Who knows, I may change during the Camino, and I'm more than happy to accept what comes. I have readily faced many significant challenges in my life and sometimes ended up enjoying them. So I don't move through the World totally blinkered to new possibilities and experiences. Quite the opposite in fact.

So my preference at least at this stage, is for privacy, a degree of just being with me. I know this might be hard on the CF, but I know many say it's possible in a virtual sense, to walk alone. I probably should walk a different Camino perhaps...

But the CF it's going to be.

So there is one point and one question here.

The point is, for most Pilgrims it seems the social aspects are one of the most enjoyable elements. And that's great. I totally get it. Please just accept that there are others for whom this might not be the case. And if I choose to walk and eat alone some days, it might just be that I prefer to. You walk your Camino in the manner you prefer, and I'll walk mine..... Don't look upon me as being 'alone' and 'needing' company....

And don't worry, I'm not such a 'loner' that if I pass you and you need help, that I won't stop to help! I'm not totally anti social! (and vice versa of course)

The Question is this. The more I read about the last 100km from Sarria, the more I worry that my Camino will end, at least emotionally, right there. I even read a blog by one of our members, where he suggested that next time he would skip the last 100 km.

So my question is this. Is it possible to skip over to a less travelled Camino for the last 100 km? Where would you skip to?

I suppose the other alternative is to just jump ahead to Santiago and forget the final 100 km. And then maybe walk to Muxia? (I'm not really concerned about the Compostella)

Who knows, maybe by the time I reach Sarria, if I make it that far, I'll enjoy the crowds and the noise..... But somehow I doubt it.....

one can't know how you will experience yourself and the camino once you have arrived in sarria - you will though, once you get there after walking 600 km or so.
perhaps just move along, step after step, until you get there, and then decide. isn't it said: "we shall cross that bridge when we get there" ?!
not to fret - enjoy each step on the way as much as you can...and allow yourself to be surprised.
by your self,
by the camino,
by life.
if it were all still the same as you outline above, find a bus perhaps to TUI and walk from there on the Portuguese.
lovely sights too ... less crowds.

i for one am highly unlikely to ever enjoy crowds and noise - but i might grow a bit more tolerant to more degrees of it ... in homeopathic dosages :)
i so completeley DO understand. but i also understand and experienced the value of moving beyond ones comfort....
good luck - enjoy the preparations ...even better if sans the worries or over-planning
very best wishes -
 
Your question has two connected but different aspects. Walking solo, let's say in a existential way, is perfectly possible -you just say so politely to fellow pilgrims that insist on talking, and they will respect that. I remember an old Dutch guy who walked solo, and that everybody knew he was not exactly a talker, so people only said to him "hello", and "buen camino" and let him alone. When invited to diner, he refused politely, prepared himself a sandwich and rested in the hall or in his bed, reading a little black book, always the same.
Being, let's say, physically alone, is more complicated. It depends on the season, and the chosen way. The "after Sarriá" section of CF from April to October is quite crowded, (which, incidentally, could make for a very lonely and anonymous experience). You can stay out of the standard final stage places, or in private hostals; and/or choose the Camino de Invierno, after Ponferrada.
Buen camino!
 
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Just to point out an alternative: the Camino doesn't start at SJPP, or even Le Puy. There are marked routes leading to Santiago starting as far east as Rostock and Bratislava. The sections in Germany, Switzerland, and eastern France are well marked, very scenic, and well-supplied with lodgings and other logistics. And very thinly supplied with other walkers.
 
Robo,
If I might offer my view......
You will mostly be among Pilgrims with a common goal of reaching Santiago, and although the reasons for walking will be different .... because the way is so long, eventually your reasons will drift off and you will discover you are really walking into your own life.
Be observant, be adventuresome, be thankful and accept what happens.
Buen Camino to you
 
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St James' Way - Self-guided 4-7 day Walking Packages, Reading to Southampton, 110 kms
As the time nears for my first Camino, the time seems to be slowing down..... It's like being a kid waiting for Christmas. But at least I still have time (76 sleeps) for more training and preparation.

Now please don't be upset by this thread title. It's not meant to sound arrogant or inflammatory. Let me put it into context. It's just an 'alternative' view...

My Camino is going to be my Camino. It may be the only one I get to do. So I'll do it my way.

That means no Albergues unless I have to, leaving an stopping when I want to, without being part of the bed race, walking at my own pace, probably mostly alone, as I want time to reflect. I'm sorry but I'm not into enforced communal living and socialising. I can think of nothing worse.

I'm quite a social animal when I want/need to be, but equally happy with just my own company. And I don't make friends easily, through choice. (there are probably some underlying reasons for that).

Who knows, I may change during the Camino, and I'm more than happy to accept what comes. I have readily faced many significant challenges in my life and sometimes ended up enjoying them. So I don't move through the World totally blinkered to new possibilities and experiences. Quite the opposite in fact.

So my preference at least at this stage, is for privacy, a degree of just being with me. I know this might be hard on the CF, but I know many say it's possible in a virtual sense, to walk alone. I probably should walk a different Camino perhaps...

But the CF it's going to be.

So there is one point and one question here.

The point is, for most Pilgrims it seems the social aspects are one of the most enjoyable elements. And that's great. I totally get it. Please just accept that there are others for whom this might not be the case. And if I choose to walk and eat alone some days, it might just be that I prefer to. You walk your Camino in the manner you prefer, and I'll walk mine..... Don't look upon me as being 'alone' and 'needing' company....

And don't worry, I'm not such a 'loner' that if I pass you and you need help, that I won't stop to help! I'm not totally anti social! (and vice versa of course)

The Question is this. The more I read about the last 100km from Sarria, the more I worry that my Camino will end, at least emotionally, right there. I even read a blog by one of our members, where he suggested that next time he would skip the last 100 km.

So my question is this. Is it possible to skip over to a less travelled Camino for the last 100 km? Where would you skip to?

I suppose the other alternative is to just jump ahead to Santiago and forget the final 100 km. And then maybe walk to Muxia? (I'm not really concerned about the Compostella)

Who knows, maybe by the time I reach Sarria, if I make it that far, I'll enjoy the crowds and the noise..... But somehow I doubt it.....

Robo:

Start slow, pack light, listen to your body and let the Camino be your guide.

I would suggest you do not worry about much other than getting to your starting point. The Camino will take care of the rest and you will adjust or go home.

Enjoy your Camino.
Joe
 
Thank you all for your understanding and feedback. If the members of this forum are in any way representative of the people I will meet whilst walking, it will indeed be an enriching and valuable experience.

As I mentioned on another thread, I'll probably shoot a video blog of sorts.

I might have to shoot a mini version for this Forum so you can see if I made it or not! How I changed or not? And how sound your advice was.... :)
 
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Is it YOUR Camino, or THE Camino? Seams to me you want to walk in oblivion of what is going around you, yet you are adamant about walking the Disney Trail (CF). There are many many trails to walk on around the world what are not the Camino.

As far as I am concerned, if you chose to walk CF, you have to accept ALL that comes with it. Including loud, careless people, anywhere along the CF that will burst your bubble and scare birds and frog away.

And the true lessons of the CF is how abruptly the false impression you have of having discovered THE TRUTH, of how superfical your 'Camino""""" Family"""" actually is.

You chose to skip that part to remain in a false honeymoon fase is? You have not walked.
Boy ain't you just the Camino Grinch. If you think the CF is just for the hopelessly jaded maybe you should stand guard at the start of all the others to make sure us mere mortals only enjoy our preconceived awakening. LOL
 
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There is an old Camino saying on the lines of "The Camino provides - not always what you want, but always what you truly need."

You seem to have very strong feelings about what You want and how You want to do Your Camino, which is fine, but do yourself a favour and keep an open mind that things / feelings might change. If not, there could be a real danger that you put yourself in a box and restrict yourself from experience all that the Camino has to offer.

As for the last 100km, make that decision closer to the time, when you are already walking, things might have changed, inside you, in a variety of ways you can't imagine yet.

Buen Camino! SY
 
More often we forget the most important.
What can we provide to others pilgrims?
Surely, our company, friendship, a word of support, treat blisters, share water, etc. will mark another Pilgrim all his life.
This is important!
Of course, it is also important what other pilgrims give me. Your friendship.
Buen Camino.
 
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The final 100kms is bound to be more crowded, but it is easy to walk 'between stages' especially if staying in private accomodation. Having only joined the CF at Palas de Rei after the Primitivo I expected the same overcrowding that Terry had experienced when he joined at Melide previously. In actual fact it was fairly quiet and our booked ahead (daily) accomodation was great. We saw and had coffee/meals with some folk we met up with several times but found the last kms into Santiago as good as the earlier parts of the Camino. As said earlier you can make the decision at Sarria, but the Inglés or others could seem as busy as the Francés with less choice of accomodation available.
Buen Camino
 
Wow, looks like you had something to vent. Almost like excusing yourself upfront. Why? Lots of people arent in real life as social as they turn out to be on the camino. Relax and take it how it comes. It is what it is. Your goimg to either change and be more social then you expected or your going to be exactly like you describe. So what.....it does not matter.

As far as the last 100kms go, it really isnt even half as bad as some make it out te be. Also for the bed race. It is al a bit over exaggerated imo.

What i dont get, after reading your post, how can you "worry" about the last 100km when eveything in your post says: i am not gonna be bothered by other people. I will do what i want, walk my walk....It is my camino. It sounds like you are contradicting yourself.

Walk the last 100km and see what it brings you. Maybe you'll see a few more pilgrims, but they are just doing what your doing, walking to santiago. Nothing more, nothing less. No need to avoid them like the plague.
 
Wow, looks like you had something to vent. Almost like excusing yourself upfront. Why? Lots of people arent in real life as social as they turn out to be on the camino. Relax and take it how it comes. It is what it is. Your goimg to either change and be more social then you expected or your going to be exactly like you describe. So what.....it does not matter.

As far as the last 100kms go, it really isnt even half as bad as some make it out te be. Also for the bed race. It is al a bit over exaggerated imo.

What i dont get, after reading your post, how can you "worry" about the last 100km when eveything in your post says: i am not gonna be bothered by other people. I will do what i want, walk my walk....It is my camino. It sounds like you are contradicting yourself.

Walk the last 100km and see what it brings you. Maybe you'll see a few more pilgrims, but they are just doing what your doing, walking to santiago. Nothing more, nothing less. No need to avoid them like the plague.

Probably just thinking aloud a bit Dutch. And not that coherently :oops:
 
The one from Galicia (the round) and the one from Castilla & Leon. Individually numbered and made by the same people that make the ones you see on your walk.
Maybe, maybe not.
 
Hi Robo -
One tip if those wonderful ancient paths are a bit busy anytime is to stop for a short break - find somewhere to plonk down, take off your boots and socks and have your "toe wiggle" (thanks to JohnMcM for this fantastic expression!), sip some water - a break of five or so minutes should do it. Then watch for a "break in the traffic" and head off then.
I wish you a tranquil camino so that you may have the solitude and the time for reflection that you're looking forward to.
It will be fantastic to follow your blog on The Way. Thanks for sharing it with us all.
Cheers - Jenny
 
Hi Robo -
One tip if those wonderful ancient paths are a bit busy anytime is to stop for a short break - find somewhere to plonk down, take off your boots and socks and have your "toe wiggle" (thanks to JohnMcM for this fantastic expression!), sip some water - a break of five or so minutes should do it. Then watch for a "break in the traffic" and head off then.
I wish you a tranquil camino so that you may have the solitude and the time for reflection that you're looking forward to.
It will be fantastic to follow your blog on The Way. Thanks for sharing it with us all.
Cheers - Jenny

Hi Jenny, I won't actually be blogging. I'll be doing short videos. They might be quite difficult to upload en route. (big files) So I'll probably do a summary edited version for the Forum when I get back.
 
The one from Galicia (the round) and the one from Castilla & Leon. Individually numbered and made by the same people that make the ones you see on your walk.
Hi Jenny, I won't actually be blogging. I'll be doing short videos. They might be quite difficult to upload en route. (big files) So I'll probably do a summary edited version for the Forum when I get back.
Ta Robo - the summary sounds great. 'Will keep a look out for it later in the year once you're back and have had time to put the video together.
Cheers - Jenny
 
Robo, I hiked alone my 1st. Camino. At the time my job put me in the middle of hoards of people all needing something from me. I'd been through a personal nightmare and my Camino was not for health per se, but was to calm the voices in my head. :) People are very kind and understanding, at least the ones I needed showed up for me when I needed them. The very 1st Pilgrim I conversed with explained hiking at your own pace to me. Another showed me how to tie my boots so they didn't loosen up and yet another loaned me one of her poles as I'd come with none! It's VERY easy to separate yourself because the very act of walking puts you at a very specific pace. Many people are there for strictly religious reasons so when in doubt just pray. Head down (works every time) LOL Within 3 weeks I'd gotten those voices in my head down to just two. Spirit and Ego. Spirit won and Ego still knocks at the door, but I tell her where to sit. I'm an extremely social creature. People are my drug of choice, but Solitude, that is something else entirely. I adore it; can't survive without it and you will have plenty of it. Like so many above have suggested, "don't over think it." Buen Camino!
 
The 2024 Camino guides will be coming out little by little. Here is a collection of the ones that are out so far.
Being, let's say, physically alone, is more complicated. It depends on the season, and the chosen way. The "after Sarriá" section of CF from April to October is quite crowded, (which, incidentally, could make for a very lonely and anonymous experience). You can stay out of the standard final stage places, or in private hostals; and/or choose the Camino de Invierno, after Ponferrada.
Buen camino!
This.

Being a bit of an introvert, I need quite a lot of 'alone time'. I have mostly walked on caminos where I hardly met other pilgrims or hikers. Last year I walked my first days on the Camino Francés (León - Sarria). The hardest part for me was not the crowd in the albergue, but the fact that I was never physically alone when walking. At least never for more than 20 minutes or so. There were almost always people behind, in front of me, passing by or I was passing by them. It felt disturbed by it and found it hard to roam around in my own thoughts.

I have also experienced how lonely one can feel in an anonymous crowd. For example in the albergue in O Cebreiro. Some 104 beds, if I recall well. Nowhere to go but a tiny, touristy village. Half of the crowd were Spaniards (my Spanish is not good enough to understand rapid conversations among Spaniards), 20% were Italians, 15% Germans, 10% Korean... all sticking to their own nationality and speaking in their mother tongue. Being the only foreigner in a remote Spanish or French village felt a lot better and a lot less lonely!

This year I will walk the Francés (the whole of it) for the first time. But I think I might escape to the Invierno at Ponferrada.
 
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Robo,

from this Camino "virgin"

re: the Sarria to SdC section.
A bit of advice, in my preparations, I have gleaned from someone (sorry can't remember who) elsewhere on this forum.
Most of the people doing only this section are Spaniards and with limited time available tend to start at Sarria at weekends.
So time your camino so as to leave Sarria midweek and thus avoid the worst of the crowds.

As to how you walk your walk that's down or up to you and no one else.

Me? I've made my preparations for when I walk and that is with lists of accommodation/restaurants etc (I will seldom if ever be staying in albergues - again personal choice and out of kindness to others who would be "disturbed" by my snoring and nocturnal visits to the "facilities"!).

But mentally? I am totally unprepared and yet totally prepared to be open and accept whatever the Camino gives me.

But isn't that how you should deal with life in general?
 
Hi I hope you have a beautiful Camino and the joy that can permeate you through experiencing one happens for you. The last 100 km is the busiest part but like the rest of the way from SJPDP it has its rhythms of pilgrims, waves and lulls, it might mean changing your pattern to find a quieter time to walk, or even by the time you get to Sarria it might not be important any more, the baggage that you want to take with you more often than not gets left somewhere.

Buen Camino
 
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Although I'm not Catholic, I find a lot of value in the Benedictine approach to living in community. Fundamentally, it's about the fact that we do not live in isolation, but in a web of community relationships -- relationships that aren't always sweetness and light. Since I look on the pilgrim experience as just such a "living in community", albeit a community-on-the-move, this works for me. There are many resource materials available on the topic of Benedictine spirituality for laypeople/non-monastics. Here's one: http://www.benedictfriend.org/article/3/the-rule-of-st-benedict
 
Go ahead and walk the last 100 km. You'll be alright. It's really not that bad, especially if you plan on staying in private accommodations. As with a lot of other topics on this forum, I think it get's blown a little out of proportion here.
Could not have said it better. This is one of the prettiest areas of Spain and the Camino Frances. I've seen peregrinos standing on hill tops just soaking in the beauty. It is a unique area and you should experience it for yourself. Otherwise, what is the point?
As one of the no-albergue crowd, I can tell you that you will meet, and enjoy the company of, many like minded people, all along the way.
Buen Viaje.
 
Although I'm not Catholic, I find a lot of value in the Benedictine approach to living in community. Fundamentally, it's about the fact that we do not live in isolation, but in a web of community relationships -- relationships that aren't always sweetness and light. Since I look on the pilgrim experience as just such a "living in community", albeit a community-on-the-move, this works for me. There are many resource materials available on the topic of Benedictine spirituality for laypeople/non-monastics. Here's one: http://www.benedictfriend.org/article/3/the-rule-of-st-benedict

Thanks so much for this link. I look forward to reading it.
 
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Although I'm not Catholic, I find a lot of value in the Benedictine approach to living in community. Fundamentally, it's about the fact that we do not live in isolation, but in a web of community relationships -- relationships that aren't always sweetness and light. Since I look on the pilgrim experience as just such a "living in community", albeit a community-on-the-move, this works for me. There are many resource materials available on the topic of Benedictine spirituality for laypeople/non-monastics. Here's one: http://www.benedictfriend.org/article/3/the-rule-of-st-benedict
Living in community. I like that term ..... and look forward to reading the link you shared.

I spend a lot of time on my own, by choice. When I was called to Camino, I was most apprehensive about being in close contact with strangers, and it was for this reason that I forced myself from time to time, among extreme discomfort, to endure the full albergue dormitorio experience, including the shared bathrooms. There is no doubt that it was during these difficult stays that most of my spiritual and personal growth occurred. To quote @Dutch from another thread, it is in the albergues where the "real magic" happens.
 
One thing I would want to communicate to any prospective pilgrims reading this, is that on a physical level, the albergues are not uncomfortable and are certainly not what can be regarded as primitive or harsh. I would not want anybody to be put-off from walking a Camino due to that misconception.
For someone that has never lived communally they certainly could be a bit of a culture shock. Sleeping in the same room with upwards of maybe 30-50 strangers and sharing toilets and showers with them? Sure, that takes a little bit of getting used to, but really it ain't nothing but a thing. Besides, if you are spending a lot of time in the albergue, you are missing out on a lot of good sightseeing and such.
 
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As the time nears for my first Camino, the time seems to be slowing down..... It's like being a kid waiting for Christmas. But at least I still have time (76 sleeps) for more training and preparation.

Now please don't be upset by this thread title. It's not meant to sound arrogant or inflammatory. Let me put it into context. It's just an 'alternative' view...

My Camino is going to be my Camino. It may be the only one I get to do. So I'll do it my way.

That means no Albergues unless I have to, leaving an stopping when I want to, without being part of the bed race, walking at my own pace, probably mostly alone, as I want time to reflect. I'm sorry but I'm not into enforced communal living and socialising. I can think of nothing worse.

I'm quite a social animal when I want/need to be, but equally happy with just my own company. And I don't make friends easily, through choice. (there are probably some underlying reasons for that).

Who knows, I may change during the Camino, and I'm more than happy to accept what comes. I have readily faced many significant challenges in my life and sometimes ended up enjoying them. So I don't move through the World totally blinkered to new possibilities and experiences. Quite the opposite in fact.

So my preference at least at this stage, is for privacy, a degree of just being with me. I know this might be hard on the CF, but I know many say it's possible in a virtual sense, to walk alone. I probably should walk a different Camino perhaps...

But the CF it's going to be.

So there is one point and one question here.

The point is, for most Pilgrims it seems the social aspects are one of the most enjoyable elements. And that's great. I totally get it. Please just accept that there are others for whom this might not be the case. And if I choose to walk and eat alone some days, it might just be that I prefer to. You walk your Camino in the manner you prefer, and I'll walk mine..... Don't look upon me as being 'alone' and 'needing' company....

And don't worry, I'm not such a 'loner' that if I pass you and you need help, that I won't stop to help! I'm not totally anti social! (and vice versa of course)

The Question is this. The more I read about the last 100km from Sarria, the more I worry that my Camino will end, at least emotionally, right there. I even read a blog by one of our members, where he suggested that next time he would skip the last 100 km.

So my question is this. Is it possible to skip over to a less travelled Camino for the last 100 km? Where would you skip to?

I suppose the other alternative is to just jump ahead to Santiago and forget the final 100 km. And then maybe walk to Muxia? (I'm not really concerned about the Compostella)

Who knows, maybe by the time I reach Sarria, if I make it that far, I'll enjoy the crowds and the noise..... But somehow I doubt it.....
Sounds like a script from the old Sat. Night Live sketch-Debbie Downer. If you do the CF (including the last 100k) in April or May, you shouldn't have a problem with crowds or bed races. At least that was my experience this past April/May. The vast majority of the time, I walked alone and was able to become involved with the rest of humanity as I chose. Buen Camino.
 
The "Bed Race" that people talk about I actually experienced, but to my surprise I found that my fretting was "all in my head." When the day came that there was NOT a bed, what I discovered is that there is always another bed. Hostels, Pensions, Hotels etc. You can always call a cab too or if the weather's nice many times there are places outside. Just saying. There is never not a bed. Relax and enjoy
 
This is an interesting thread, love how this community shares their perspective(s) lovingly. So, in that vein.... Robo, I too wanted to walk in solitude and for the most part I did. I believe the longest I walked and talked with another pilgrim was about 3k, and it was after O'Cebriero - so I was on home stretch (I started in SJPDP). I didn't over think the last 100k ahead of of time....and the day out of I think is was Belodorado (?) just past Sarria my misery grew and grew - people talking so loudly on cell phones, lots of youngsters with music playing - jostling- joking - crowding ...you get the picture. I had to have a sit-down, let tears of frustration flow and after a time I came to the realization that these kids weren't somewhere getting into trouble, they didn't have the experience of all of the kms already behind me, I found after letting my frustration run it's course that I ended up with the idea that I wished more young people could be as fortunate as these (clumsy and loud) young people. What an amazing experience to take with you on your journey through life.
The point is that is a lesson that has stayed with me long after my camino - annoyance can turn into something more like discovery when I allow enough time to really think. The camino with it's charms and its quirks holds tenderly so many amazing and extraordinary people that set out to reach their goal, whatever their personal reasons are.
I hope that your experience is amazing, Robo. It's really pretty difficult to have a bad time even on the CF and that starts inside; you get exactly what you look for.
Buen Camino :)
 
The focus is on reducing the risk of failure through being well prepared. 2nd ed.
Mark made a good point about Albergues. Some are better than others, but the Amazing ones sure make up for those lacking! When I say amazing I am not overstating anything. Find that part of this Forum and read about some of them. Some of my most profound moments happened in the community of others in those places!
 
I 'm a bit like you, Robo. I enjoy solitary walks and anticipate that my Camino (beginning May 1) will be predominantly that. Not altogether conversely, I am looking forward to what MY Camino brings. My intention is to allow what comes, be present with what comes up for me, and be gentle with myself, knowing that I am not often in control of the externals (perhaps never, really) but can learn and grow from my loving observations of my own reactions.

Buen Camino, Robo!
 
I certainly don't view it as a Disney Trail. I have undertaken gruelling long distance hikes in a previous life. So to a degree I can imagine some of the physical and emotional challenges I'll face.

Hello Robo, I was not trying to put words in your mouth when I compared CF to Disney - that is my cheeky comparison. And the reason I make it is that I feel that this route is a bit of a summer camp for adults: outdoor activity, but not very strenuous, usually during summer months, or at least summer-like temps, with lots of socialising.

To me, what makes the CF the CF is the social aspect of it, yet you are committed to this route but don't want to be taken in by its essence. That is what I struggle with.

CF, to me, is a place where you are challenged not by your feet as much as by the serendipidous (sp?) meetings (prefer the French term "rencontres" which has a much deaper meaning), by the stories you hear, share, by the kindness and generosity of others, by how incredible it is that all barriers (image of self etc.) fall so rapidly, making everyone there an equal, an equal sharing in a very simple experience: that of walking, day after day, after day, after day, and perhaps struggling with their monkey mind.

I have walked bits of it 3 times. The first was the best: no planing, just taking in what was being put in front of me day after day. Came across people who shared things in common with me that surely were not common, and yet, these people were there. I called it Camino Magic. These people seamed to have been put on the CF for me. My second was truly a Disney ride, walking with a group of 3 others day in and day out: made the walking easier with all the chatter, but no magic, no introspection. My third I wanted introspection, and would get annoyed by the 3 loud ladies walking behind me, or the bicygrinos reporting nightly, and loudly, to their wives at home on their cells, etc.

So for peace and quiet I went to del Norte. Evenings can be communal, but you don't have chattering in front and in back of you as you walk. It is much more about the long distance walking than the social aspect. Because distances can be greater from albergue to albergue, and many are experienced long distance walkers, you are more likely not to see the same people again night after night, which cuts down on the risk of them getting in your bubble ;0) Ditto for the fact that many of those on el Camino del Norte are Spaniards - so less English spoken, more bubble time.

The way I read your posts, I get the feeling you are more into a long distance walk with yourself. But if you are truly committed to CF, perhaps for its geography walking through vineyards and fields of wheat, I don't know, then I recommed you plug headphones in your ears - people will pass you by, and you won't hear them as they catch up to you.

May whichever way you decide to walk bring you what you are looking for. And perhaps a surprise or two.
 
The one from Galicia (the round) and the one from Castilla & Leon. Individually numbered and made by the same people that make the ones you see on your walk.
Hello, Robo. You might consider walking part or all of your Camino in silence. By silence I mean not talking when in the company of others, just being. If you are worried about causing offense, wear an 'I'm speechless'' tag or a mute button sign :)..... Years ago I met a peregrina walking a non-verbal camino. When others spoke she wrote down replies.

ultreia et suseia
 
I think I've said a few times that on my next Camino I might stop at Sarria, so you might be quoting me there. But let me clear up one theng..... even as outspoken as I am about Sarria--->Santiago, I wouldn't skip that on my first Camino that is for darn sure. Nothing compares to walking into Santiago after the trek. If you are super concerned, I guess you could transfer over to another camino route for the last 100 km, but that will separate you from the people you've been seeing every day, your ryhtym etc, too.

I think a better idea than skipping or shifting would be to walk it.....but then continue on to Finnesterre. That way you get the experience of walking to Santiago and you also get to end on a return to the (relative) peace and quiet you loved about the Camino
 
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Robo, I met a young guy from Switzerland who was obviously doing a lot of "internal" work on the Camino. He walked slowly and purposefully, even pausing now and then to pray. He would speak if spoken to, but would let you know quickly, in a gentle way, that he wished to be alone. It didn't take long for other pilgrims to know that he wanted to be alone, so there were "buen Caminos" given in passing and then he was left alone again. You should have no trouble being left alone, once others know that that is what you're about. Plus, if you stay only in private accommodations and avoid most conversations while walking, you'll not develop the connections with others that would lead to an invasion of your space.
As for crowds after Sarria, there's a term I remember from psychology class-perceptual set. It refers to seeing what you expect to see. If you're dwelling on how crowded, noisy, and invasive it will be, it won't let you down. That's exactly what you will see each and every day. Instead, try to focus on each quiet moment and bit of alone time that you have. That will make the quiet times seem larger and more often, and the less quiet diminished.
I hope you find it to be what you want, but as others have said, don't be surprised if what you want changes by the time you're done.
 
Hello, Robo. You might consider walking part or all of your Camino in silence. By silence I mean not talking when in the company of others, just being. If you are worried about causing offense, wear an 'I'm speechless'' tag or a mute button sign :)..... Years ago I met a peregrina walking a non-verbal camino. When others spoke she wrote down replies.

ultreia et suseia

A bit extreme :eek:
 
As for crowds after Sarria, there's a term I remember from psychology class-perceptual set. It refers to seeing what you expect to see. If you're dwelling on how crowded, noisy, and invasive it will be, it won't let you down. That's exactly what you will see each and every day. Instead, try to focus on each quiet moment and bit of alone time that you have. That will make the quiet times seem larger and more often, and the less quiet diminished.
.

Makes perfect sense. I'm actually a very optimistic person by nature. I plan for success in my everyday life and generally achieve it, by whatever measure that might be. My 'other half' however is a class half empty type. And so the opposite results tend to be the outcome....
 
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I rather feel the need for an apology for this thread. My initial post must have sounded like I was some kind of narcissistic social misfit ! But the responses have been extremely understanding, kind and supportive. Thank You.

I'm actually quite a social person. But I really look forward to the illusion or perception at least of some solitude. The most likely outcome is that I will probably not stop talking (and listening) from St JPP to Santiago!

I suppose I was just voicing the view (or fear) that not everyone likes socialising when it seems to be thrust upon them. Which I'm sure won't be the case on the Camino in reality. I just don't want to feel like I 'have' to socialise all the time. Communal this, communal that.

I had 20 years of enforced communal living 'in a previous life'. I'm over it. Well over it.... I really value my privacy now.

And if you are wondering, no I wasn't in Prison! Although it felt like it at times...

And fear not, I will be going with a totally open mind. Yes really! I have done some amazingly challenging things in recent years and drew enormous strength and growth from them. I look forward to a similar experience here.

If I seem to be over planning and over thinking the whole thing, unfortunately that's my nature. When I become interested in something it soon turns into a passion and then dare I say obsession... A unhealthy character trait sadly.

I have now planned enough.....and thought enough.

I will now focus on walking each day, and taking each day as it comes.

Here endeth the lesson.

My lesson!

A lesson well gained and I haven't even started yet.

Thank You.
 
As the time nears for my first Camino, the time seems to be slowing down..... It's like being a kid waiting for Christmas. But at least I still have time (76 sleeps) for more training and preparation.

Now please don't be upset by this thread title. It's not meant to sound arrogant or inflammatory. Let me put it into context. It's just an 'alternative' view...

My Camino is going to be my Camino. It may be the only one I get to do. So I'll do it my way.

That means no Albergues unless I have to, leaving an stopping when I want to, without being part of the bed race, walking at my own pace, probably mostly alone, as I want time to reflect. I'm sorry but I'm not into enforced communal living and socialising. I can think of nothing worse.

I'm quite a social animal when I want/need to be, but equally happy with just my own company. And I don't make friends easily, through choice. (there are probably some underlying reasons for that).

Who knows, I may change during the Camino, and I'm more than happy to accept what comes. I have readily faced many significant challenges in my life and sometimes ended up enjoying them. So I don't move through the World totally blinkered to new possibilities and experiences. Quite the opposite in fact.

So my preference at least at this stage, is for privacy, a degree of just being with me. I know this might be hard on the CF, but I know many say it's possible in a virtual sense, to walk alone. I probably should walk a different Camino perhaps...

But the CF it's going to be.

So there is one point and one question here.

The point is, for most Pilgrims it seems the social aspects are one of the most enjoyable elements. And that's great. I totally get it. Please just accept that there are others for whom this might not be the case. And if I choose to walk and eat alone some days, it might just be that I prefer to. You walk your Camino in the manner you prefer, and I'll walk mine..... Don't look upon me as being 'alone' and 'needing' company....

And don't worry, I'm not such a 'loner' that if I pass you and you need help, that I won't stop to help! I'm not totally anti social! (and vice versa of course)

The Question is this. The more I read about the last 100km from Sarria, the more I worry that my Camino will end, at least emotionally, right there. I even read a blog by one of our members, where he suggested that next time he would skip the last 100 km.

So my question is this. Is it possible to skip over to a less travelled Camino for the last 100 km? Where would you skip to?


I suppose the other alternative is to just jump ahead to Santiago and forget the final 100 km. And then maybe walk to Muxia? (I'm not really concerned about the Compostella)

Who knows, maybe by the time I reach Sarria, if I make it that far, I'll enjoy the crowds and the noise..... But somehow I doubt it.....

I can totally relate on your thoughts and concerns about owning your walk, quietly and peacefully for reflections. I also agree with other pilgrims regarding having little or no expectation and the way will provide whatever and whoever you need for your spiritual or inner self journey. On a personal note, I'm a reserved and quiet type, mostly walked alone during the day and sometimes joined in with some familiar walkers at dinner time, or just sightseeing the new town or village on my own. I felt that on the camino, companionship was something within my choice, I could choose to be socialized or to be distanced for the sake of processing my thoughts. Just like one time I walked with a lady with high pitched voice, keep in mind, she is talkative and very nice person, but her voice pierced through my ears and got on my nerve after a while. So, I politely bailed out, saying that I would like to spend some alone time and we would meet again at the next albergue. She was fine with it. However, the crowd was a different story, the noise of, especially at the first moment of the day, when I tried to pray or meditate, the loud conversation and laugh of some large groups of Spanish pilgrims, the click-clacking of the walking poles, at times drove me insane!!! :( Not to mention about the race for bed at the albergue). Therefore, for my personal preference, Sarria is the stretch that I will avoid on my next camino, it is beautiful and all but it is not for me. It was the point where all bubble bursts. Looking back I didn't regret it because it provided a completion for my whole camino experience of high and low's. I would not repeat it though! I should mention that the timing was another factor too, a few days before the feast of St James was not helping either! Finally, if you chose to skip this last 100km, and avoiding the crowd, I can suggest the last 100km from Ferrol, the camino Ingles or from Tui, camino Portugues. I walked both of them and they are both scenic and less walked routes. The walk to Finisterre and Muxia is also nice, I personally preferred Muxia over Finisterre, much less people and wilder ocean! I heard of another scenic and quiet route, camino San Salvador, from Leon to Oviedo. From Oviedo you will rejoin camino Primitivo but the last part bring you back to FC. Another short and scenic camino is Lebaniego, from Sant Vicente de la Barquera to monastery of Santo Toribio, one of the holy places of catholism. I didn't walk it but was visiting by bus, however with my pilgrim credential, I was able to stay at the public albergue of Potes for 5 Euro, the albergue was new and beautiful but not cared for and quite deserted. The key is kept at the office of tourism of Potes. Here is the links:
http://www.jubileolebaniego.com/en/ruta-lebaniega/descripcion

I wish you all the best and may you find your walk rewarding! Buen Camino!
 
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Most people, in my eyes, walk alone and want to walk alone. Even the ones that come with a friend or partner. They stop for breaks and then blablablablabla, but after 5 minutes of walking i sometimes feel like people get into some sort of "zone" or a private bubble.

If you want to walk alone, you will walk alone, no matter how many people are walking the same way as you.
 
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Most people, in my eyes, walk alone and want to walk alone . . . [and are in] some sort of "zone" or a private bubble.

If you want to walk alone, you will walk alone, no matter how many people are walking the same way as you.

I agree. Most people respect each other's privacy. However, I want to post one important caveat. Sometimes when another pilgrim talks you up on the Camino it's because they are struggling emotionally. They just need to talk to someone for while. Almost all of us have been there at one time or another. We suddenly miss our family and friends or we have that "what in hell am I doing here?" moment. Just a few minutes of kindness from one pilgrim to another can make the difference.
 
Hi Robo, Well - I'll bet the lovely forum gave you way more in the way of opinions than you expected. We're an opinionated lot here it seems - and you fit right in.;). I was really surprised to see you say that you thought it would raise ire to want to walk alone. Good heavens - I think most people (over 40 at least) walk the camino to have some private time to ponder our lives, our universe, our god(s) and whatever else we decide to do to move away from our daily routines for a period. I think that what happened to me though on my first camino is what happens to many on their first camino.

I first went when there was little online information available in 2003. I wanted and needed time to think about what I was going to do with the rest of my life and was looking forward to just be alone with no responsibilities and nothing to do but walk and look after myself. I was completely clueless about what I was getting into and since I had very little in the way of expectations, they were hugely exceeded. But what I didn't expect was to meet so many wonderful people. I spent as much time as I wanted walking time alone, but met people in bars for a coffee or lunch and in the albergues in the evening. I was so impressed with how loving and gentle people were and truly considerate of each other. I was 59 at the time and met lots of people my own age but also lots of younger (and older) people.

I was (again) so impressed with many of the younger people I spoke to who were really struggling with their religion and trying so hard to find deep meaning in their church and god in the light of all of the criticism the Catholic church has undergone in the past few years. I'm not Catholic and, in fact, realized I was very judgmental of the church based on nothing that was of my own experience. I was humbled by the depth of their struggles and their perception as they walked to connect with their church. And, realizing my own arrogance and shallowness in this regard, I've found myself less and less judgmental now having had the opportunity to meet those beautiful people.

Now, of course, there are a lot more people and it is perhaps harder to connect in a meaningful way. Yes - there are some people who just go for the party but hey - mostly they're young and that's a really good time to party. But there are still lots of people, young and older who go for the camino and for the experience it brings them.

And if you get time, for sure walk to Muxia and Finisterre. Not many people do that in May or June (relatively). And to some (me), after spending so much time in the countryside, sitting on the rocks to watch the sun set at 'the end of the earth' seems like a much more fitting end to the camino than a city is, lovely as Santiago is.

The pictures below were taken about mid June in 2013 within the last 100 km to Santiago. As you can see the people do spread out a bit. And the last two are at Finisterre.
IMG_3739.JPG IMG_3739.JPG IMG_3751.jpg IMG_3741.jpg IMG_3804.JPG IMG_3843.JPG IMG_3739.JPG
 
The 2024 Camino guides will be coming out little by little. Here is a collection of the ones that are out so far.
I certainly do not want to respire any contention here but I am on a similar train of thought. I will be doing the camino in June with my son who is getting ready for university. It is our last chance to bond. I want us to have plenty of distraction free time together. I, for this reason, chose to do a zig zag of Camino's starting in Madrid and coming into Santiago from the south. I will not set foot on the CF at all and I know that many here have their own thoughts on this I just think that God is leading me on this because I feel this path is in my heart.
 
Robo. hello - you must do your own Camino, of course - how else could it be ... though .... it seems, from your post, that you have already decided exactly what and how your Camino will be - and you aren't even there yet!
I think it was Lennon who said that God laughs at our plans ... so don't be too surprised when the Camino takes over your life and gives you an utterly different experience from what you have planned it will be.

Robo, what manifests in our lives, what is presented to each of us, is not random, not chaos, not co-incidence, but is always a teacher, a lesson, a sometimes very painful insight into ourselves, and always of what we specifically need to become more fully human, more complete, more loving - what manifests, what we are presented with, will be mirrored in those unhealed aspects of your inner self, that is why they manifest ...
you write "not into enforced communal living and socialising. I can think of nothing worse." and "I don't make friends easily, through choice. (there are probably some underlying reasons for that)." - and this shows how you see this aspect of your world, how you have lived this life so far - I think you may find that this isolated way you have had to live your life to protect your inner self will be confronted and will be put fully into your pilgrim life .. that you may be faced with it - and this could be the very reason your are called to Camino - when it comes, and I think that it will come, jump in the deep end, all will be well and you will be much the better for it - surrender Robo, surrender.

As for "skipping" - why? Do you want instant gratification? Do you skip most of the book so you can enjoy the resolution in the last chapter? Do you only watch the last ten minutes of a film? Don't skip Robo, every day of it, every section of it, is a process ... the external day to day being merely the stage you walk upon whilst the inner pilgrimage takes place.
As for privacy - privacy is within, not without ...

Throw your plans out the window Robo - take your first step and just carry on from there, no plans, no restrictions, no withdrawal ... go on pilgrimage - all is well.

Just my own opinion, my own outlook on this world we appear to be part of - Buen Camino
Very well put, David. After giggling to myself about well ironed white shirts and pristine trail runners I settled into enjoying the new influx of people. Met/helped two women from South America with blisters, an almost broken wrist, extremely clean shoes, but above all an exuberance for what they had come to do. Even though the one who fell on her wrist and talked incessantly to me in Spanish (I understood about a third of it) sort of annoyed me at the time, I still think fondly of them to this day, and really wish I knew if they made it to Santiago. And the anticipation of walking all that way, in a straight/very circuitous/up and down path to my destination, was sort of enhanced by realizing everyone else was focused on that also. By then I had really cranked up the speed I had been crawling across Spain with, but now regret not having taken those last 100 km a little slower to think about all I had seen and endured. Next time I will.
 
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I've enjoyed this thread very much, and it has given me a lot to think about:
--you said that you didn't want to be an "extra" in someone else's camino: I respect that, and understand.

--sounds like you were either in a horrid marriage previously (felt like a prison!) or did indeed have some past lives, and perhaps walked the Trail of Tears, Battan (sp) death march, et cetera. In any event, I think I would like to be an extra in your camino and hear your stories, if you would share. You sound like an interesting individual!

All the best. Buen Camino.
 
You chose your level of social interaction on the Camino. No one will force you to be social. If you are looking for peace or how to achieve peace in your life, then I would recommend not isolating yourself. Here in the real world, there are many distractions that we must learn to live with.

I think it was Lennon who said that God laughs at our plans ...

Indeed.
 
The 2024 Camino guides will be coming out little by little. Here is a collection of the ones that are out so far.
The only way to make the Camino solo, it´s if you make in winter.
At this time, you will walk with five or ten maximum of pilgrims.
Once I slept in the albergue of Zizur Menor with two Pilgrims. An Japanese old woman, and a Korean young girl.
You'll walk many days without seeing anyone. Only in albergues you have some company. (not many)
Buen Camino
 
It's your time. It's your walk. There are no 'correct' ways of doing it. I would suggest that the only sure thing is that the Camino might surprise you...

It will be such a wonderful time for you, I am sure. You will find plenty enough time to be on your own. Go with as few expectations as possible... including (your current?) expectations that you do not want to mix with too many people or share communal sleeping space...!

The Camino is never quite what you think it will be - and usually, a lot lot more.
 
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Very well put, David. After giggling to myself about well ironed white shirts and pristine trail runners I settled into enjoying the new influx of people. Met/helped two women from South America with blisters, an almost broken wrist, extremely clean shoes, but above all an exuberance for what they had come to do. Even though the one who fell on her wrist and talked incessantly to me in Spanish (I understood about a third of it) sort of annoyed me at the time, I still think fondly of them to this day, and really wish I knew if they made it to Santiago. And the anticipation of walking all that way, in a straight/very circuitous/up and down path to my destination, was sort of enhanced by realizing everyone else was focused on that also. By then I had really cranked up the speed I had been crawling across Spain with, but now regret not having taken those last 100 km a little slower to think about all I had seen and endured. Next time I will.

When I read you wondering about whether or not these ladies from So America made it to Santiago I just had to tell you a quick story. There was one young man I kept running into. I'd pass him and then I'd stop with my blisters for a day or two and there he'd be. He was extremely heavy. Possibly as much as 280 pounds. His face would be bright red with sweat running down his face. He had wraps on ankles and knees. I truly was worried about him having a heart attack. He gave me encouragement each step of the way! Just seeing him struggle I had no complaints.

At the end during the wonderful Mass I was looking around the Cathedral and there he was! Sun Tanned and trim! He made it and I'm so glad I got to see the end of his walk!
 
At one point I found myself caught up in a large group of extremely nice people - it was funny how "family-like" it was - with a bunch of young people, two "parents", even a grandpa figure. I started to feel like a miscellaneous aunt, or as if I were on a school field trip. Once I realized this was bothering me, it was easy enough to slip out of the crowd and define my own path. Then when I encountered that group I could enjoy them for a brief time without feeling like an extra in their camino.

The people dynamics are fascinating. If you are confident in your own preferences, you will be able to make it work fine. But I'd still highly recommend staying in some of the popular albergues, especially early in the camino, as it does connect you with the community culture.
 
There's no such thing as a perfect Camino..no matter how much you plan or want it to be.
My advice is to prepare for that.
Enjoy every step and take in every moment, that's all you can do!
Buen Camino!
Sometimes the "perfect" camino is "no" camino !

I live in a town where they like to organise events that attract hundreds of thousands of people. Summer carnival-formula one cars racing through our streets-etc etc .
I do not like to be among these crowds-crowds are scaring me - so I do not attend these events and stay home in peace and quietness. Nothing calls me to be there.
A Dutch saying is " if everybody jumps into the water, I do not need to do that"

I should stay where I am

Buen camino
 
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My experience of the socialization aspect of the Camino is that I had a nice mix of being alone with my thoughts and opportunities to talk with others. The individual pilgrim has control of that, unless there are problems with setting boundaries, in which case a person might end up having difficulty getting out of a conversation. Generally, though it seemed that it was quite clear to me when others were open to talking and when they weren't, and I tried to be clear on my side as well in this regard.

Personally, I would not miss Sarria to Santiago for anything. When I was passing through, very late October into early November, 2013, there were only marginally more walkers than previously, possibly due to heavy rains at the time. That stretch of the Camino was magical for me, like something out of The Hobbit. Everything was green with golden light in my eyes and rain on my face. I loved it!
 
Throw your plans out the window Robo - take your first step and just carry on from there, no plans, no restrictions, no withdrawal ... go on pilgrimage - all is well.
David, I would like Ivar to put up your entire post to be a sticky on this forum. Full of wisdom.

Robo; as you, I like to walk in solitude. But people's company can also be good. You will find out. In the meantime, listen to this text:

 
David, I would like Ivar to put up your entire post to be a sticky on this forum. Full of wisdom.

Robo; as you, I like to walk in solitude. But people's company can also be good. You will find out. In the meantime, listen to this text:



Alex--

You.

Nicely done.
 
The focus is on reducing the risk of failure through being well prepared. 2nd ed.
Thanks, deb.

Actually, i believe many walk the the Camino for "killing the past, and coming back to life" (according to lyrics in the video above). I know I did.

I have posted the below picture before, but since threads are sinking down into oblivion, I'll do it one more time: I was resting one morning with my worries above Castrojeritz, when I saw this sign in the sky, reminding me to set an "X" over the past and move forward in life. I hope you can do too: Kill the past in one stroke and move forward: So look for signs on your Way: They are there:

DSCN0025.JPG

And Robo, look forward to your walk, but keep your eyes open: You are really heading into your unkniown, if you are a thinking man (and I believe you are).
 
David, I would like Ivar to put up your entire post to be a sticky on this forum. Full of wisdom.

Robo; as you, I like to walk in solitude. But people's company can also be good. You will find out. In the meantime, listen to this text:


Thanks Alex. Great Song.

Though don't assume I'm "Burned and Broken" ;) Might be a few 'singes' and 'cracks' around the edges though I'm sure..

Lyrics are here for anyone who wants to read them: http://www.azlyrics.com/lyrics/pinkfloyd/comingbacktolife.html


This thread, like others on the Forum is turning out to be a bit of a Therapy session. Maybe a taste of what's to come? But that's cool. I'm certainly open to it.

Talking of 'opening up', seeking resolution, inner peace etc. Has anyone here ever attended a session with Edwin Coppard? He runs a 5 day 'camp' that used to be called Your Voice is the Messenger of Your Soul .

Sorry, I digress. But there is a point to this. I was somewhat 'conned' into going by a very good friend. I'm so thankful that I did.


Edwin used to have a Rock Band, comes originally from London, now lives in Canada. He runs his 'camps' all over the World.

I suppose he really teaches people how to 'connect' and communicate, through song....

For one who was brought up in a very Victorian type of family, I spent a week.........

Meditating
Doing Yoga
Chanting
Exploring emotions........very deeply
Writing songs about those emotions.
And singing those songs each evening to the Group, as we all had to. (And No I am not a singer)

You cannot imagine the challenge this was for me. I almost gave up on day 2. It was just too emotionally draining. But I stuck with it.

There are only 12 people allowed on each 'camp' and I think we must have gone through 100 boxes of Kleenex between us!

The most 'life changing' experience I have ever undertaken.

Until now perhaps :)

I hope so.

Maybe I'll write some songs whilst walking! Scary thought.....
 
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The 2024 Camino guides will be coming out little by little. Here is a collection of the ones that are out so far.
I would be very interested in hearing your opinions after having done the walk, Robo. And I wish you a very good one, and a lifetime experience.

Buen Camino!

Have no fear Alex.... I will share. Watch this space in early July.

I owe so much to this Forum, to Ivar for providing it and to so many members for their support and advice.

I promise a full report (perhaps as a short video) that will expose the good........the bad........and the downright ugly! :eek:

Of course it could be a very short video if I fall at the first fence!
 
Of course it could be a very short video if I fall at the first fence!
Naahh.. I have high hopes for you. Whether you walk alone or make new friends along the Way, I believe you will do good. Just keep in mind that you will bump into good people who may be worth talking to. And take care of your feet. :)
 
The 2024 Camino guides will be coming out little by little. Here is a collection of the ones that are out so far.
I certainly do not want to respire any contention here but I am on a similar train of thought. I will be doing the camino in June with my son who is getting ready for university. It is our last chance to bond. I want us to have plenty of distraction free time together. I, for this reason, chose to do a zig zag of Camino's starting in Madrid and coming into Santiago from the south. I will not set foot on the CF at all and I know that many here have their own thoughts on this I just think that God is leading me on this because I feel this path is in my heart.
But you have picked a route that matches what you are looking for, and perhaps "then some". May all your wishes for this Camino come true, as well as for your son's future.
 
I was resting one morning with my worries above Castrojeritz, when I saw this sign in the sky, reminding me to set an "X" over the past and move forward in life. So look for signs on your Way:


Hmph ..... I see a cross.

My favorite Floyd verse :
"Ticking away the moments that make up a dull day
You fritter and waste the hours in an offhand way.
Kicking around on a piece of ground in your home town
Waiting for someone or something to show you the way"
 
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I certainly do not want to respire any contention here but I am on a similar train of thought. I will be doing the Camino in June with my son who is getting ready for university. It is our last chance to bond. I want us to have plenty of distraction free time together. I, for this reason, chose to do a zig zag of Camino's starting in Madrid and coming into Santiago from the south. I will not set foot on the CF at all and I know that many here have their own thoughts on this I just think that God is leading me on this because I feel this path is in my heart.

David - That Camino will work for you but will it work for your son. I did the Camino Frances with my son when he was a similar age back in 98 and he had had plenty of my company and bonding after a few days and was looking to meet others as well. Your plan may work perfectly but be prepared to change it if things do not work out the way you expected, perhaps God will lead your Camino in another direction.
 
David - That Camino will work for you but will it work for your son. I did the Camino Frances with my son when he was a similar age back in 98 and he had had plenty of my company and bonding after a few days and was looking to meet others as well. Your plan may work perfectly but be prepared to change it if things do not work out the way you expected, perhaps God will lead your Camino in another direction.

I couldn't agree more. Flexibility and adapting to what ever comes your way will make your Camino successful for you. I saw couples separate, come back together like old friends. At first it was shocking, but a week or two later I saw it as two best friends respecting each others differences. When you can be anywhere you want to be doing exactly what you need/want to do then why be anywhere else.

Children (not young adults) is another story. It puts the parent in that role and takes away the individual experience.

Oh, and @ Alex Walker, I don't see an X or a Cross. Of course i see Contrails! :) Love the thought of a Cross or an X though.

I love this forum!
 
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The focus is on reducing the risk of failure through being well prepared. 2nd ed.
I want to speak to Alex Walker's notion of X'ing the past.

Probably many people who walk the Camino are working something through. When I did my first extended trip, backpacking through several obscure regions of SE Asia, it was a real mind exercise--I had never had so much time alone with my memory. Many different thoughts, feelings, recollections, losses, and difficulties came up in what I think has been called, by those who meditate, "monkey brain".

That is not to say that I would want to X out those memories. There can be memories so rehabilitating that we must learn to cope with them--to snap the rubber band on the wrist and take the mind elsewhere. Break ups, deaths of young ones, any loss, cruel situations, hurts by colleagues or employers all come to mind.

For me, my past--even the lost loves, the regrets, the painful parts--is so connected to who I am that I could not consider eliminating it. I find my past very helpful to my compassion for others: when someone is absolutely lost or broken, I usually can relate very well. It makes me compassionate to remember. I think Pink Floyd also had a song with these lyrics: "All that you teach, all that you see...." and repeats that notion of "all" that you experience making you who you are. Part of Pink Floyd's wisdom, and part of why we still love the lyrics now.

Just something I was considering last night as I was dealing with a stretch of insomnia.
 

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