Daniel Beaumont
Walked the VDLP, Frances, Portuguese and Norte.
- Time of past OR future Camino
- 2019
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My thoughts exactly the second I read the headline. Uh-Oh!! Get ready for a lashing.Uh oh, you said "true" pilgrim...
Great idea, fantastic. I would volunteer after walking my Camino.Hey everyone,
My name’s Dan - i’m originally from Britain but currently live in Bucharest, Romania.
Like many of you, I’m deeply passionate about the Camino and for the last 4 years I’ve walked a different route, and next month I’ll be heading back to Spain for my 5th Camino - the Via de la Plata - starting in Sevilla and ending in Santiago.
But this post isn’t about my upcoming journey. The Camino has impacted my life in so many beautiful ways - the wonderful people i've met, the scenery, realisations & learnings, struggles, the Camino spirit, plus so much more - leaving me full of gratitude and appreciation.
Given all of this.. now i want to give back, which is why i want to share with you an ambitious project idea that’s been on my mind for the last few years, in hope that it resonates in some way with fellow pilgrims out there with a similar dream and vision.
I think there is a great sense of community and spirit amongst people who walk the way, plus the fact that finishing a Camino is such a monumental moment in life that needs, in my opinion, to be celebrated and shared once arriving in Santiago.
However, after hearing many stories of people disappointed and underwhelmed when they reach Santiago de Compostela coupled with a weak selection of true pilgrim Albergues in town, wouldn’t it be great to team up and create an Albergue where pilgrims can finish their journey that epitomises the spirit of the Camino?
I imagine a place where pilgrims can come together to share their stories, learnings and realisations from their journey, as well as reflect and relax in comfort. There would be a pilgrim’s meal every evening, regular workshops/presentations/events, and the Albergue would embody a sense of camaraderie, belonging and community. It would be run by pilgrims too… people who have walked Caminos in the past and want to give back. It doesn't have to be in Santiago but ideally located close by in tranquil nature and towards the end of the route, where all the Caminos converge.
To fill you with a little bit of optimism and to illustrate and assure you that i am deadly serious about bringing this idea to life, I want to tell you a little bit about myself. My background is in hospitality and I have 5 years experience in the hostel industry. I own and run two of the best-rated Hostels in Romania for the last 2 years running, one of which was voted in the top 5 hostels of the world this January.
With that said, i can bring my knowledge, skills and resources for running a successful space to the table, plus the team i work with and people i know who have extensive experience in this field.
However, I’d want to make this a cooperative effort and to form a team to bring this vision to life. So if there’s anyone out there who has a dream to start their own albergue or who resonates with any of what i’ve written above, i’d love to hear from you and i’ve added my contact details below.
By no means is any of this idea concrete, and i am open to ideas, suggestions and feedback.
I am going to be walking from Sevilla to Santiago between May 15th and June 18th, so if anyone is on route and wants to share ideas, then please feel free to get in touch.
All the best and Buen Camino for those lucky enough to be walking the route this year,
Dan
dan@podstel.com
+40 723 772 732
View attachment 55875
Hmm, dunno where you've been stopping in Santiago but my experiences don't mirror yours. I have sensed, and seen, that for many who have made the journey the ending is an anti-climax. A town full of tourists of whom you are only one more among the throng. A queue for a certificate and a queue for a blessing and probably even a queue for the souvenir T-shirt. But unless you are going to build that "House of many rooms" then you are not going to change that experience for many. And if you are only seeking to change it for a select few then the comments above apply.However, after hearing many stories of people disappointed and underwhelmed when they reach Santiago de Compostela coupled with a weak selection of true pilgrim Albergues in town, wouldn’t it be great to team up and create an Albergue where pilgrims can finish their journey that epitomises the spirit of the Camino?
Who's fighting???I believe he used “true” to modify albergue, NOT pilgrim as in an “albergue true to the spirit of a pilgrim”. So everyone take a deep breath and simply discuss the topic he broached rather than fighting over a non-existent point that he wasn’t making...
@Vacajoe, this might be a fair point, but the construction rules of English syntax seem to be operating against that interpretation. As it stands, the most reasonable interpretation is that the adjective, true, modifies the noun, pilgrim. Alternatively, the OP might suggest the intent was that it modify a compound noun, pilgrim albergue.I believe he used “true” to modify albergue, NOT pilgrim as in an “albergue true to the spirit of a pilgrim”. So everyone take a deep breath and simply discuss the topic he broached rather than fighting over a non-existent point that he wasn’t making...
Hello,Uh oh, you said "true" pilgrim...
I took TRUE as modifying “pilgrim albergue” and I’d hope others would give the OP the same leeway
@Vacajoe, this might be a fair point, but the construction rules of English syntax seem to be operating against that interpretation. As it stands, the most reasonable interpretation is that the adjective, true, modifies the noun, pilgrim. Alternatively, the OP might suggest the intent was that it modify a compound noun, pilgrim albergue.
Maybe he will tell us what was intended here. I do hope you are right, because I don't want to meet the doorman who can read my mind to determine whether or not I was a true pilgrim. There are too many other things in there that I only share with very close friends!
As a postscript, I wonder whether the OP is over-stating the justification for this venture. In the four times that I have stayed in Santiago, I never felt left down by the choice of good accommodation options, nor did I feel the need to attend workshops, and I could easily organise to visit the places that I wanted to see without the assistance of an event organiser. That doesn't mean there is no demand for these things, but it wouldn't attract me.
And as a post-postscript, I am with @t2andreo on the valuable support offered by Pilgrim House. Wonderful people doing a great job supporting pilgrims in so many different ways.
Hmm, dunno where you've been stopping in Santiago but my experiences don't mirror yours. I have sensed, and seen, that for many who have made the journey the ending is an anti-climax. A town full of tourists of whom you are only one more among the throng. A queue for a certificate and a queue for a blessing and probably even a queue for the souvenir T-shirt. But unless you are going to build that "House of many rooms" then you are not going to change that experience for many. And if you are only seeking to change it for a select few then the comments above apply.
Yes, exactly on point here. Thanks for qualifying. As someone who would welcome any person who walked, I have no desire to talk about what a pilgrim is or isn't. I used the word true to encapsulate what the Albergue would look, feel and be like.I believe he used “true” to modify albergue, NOT pilgrim as in an “albergue true to the spirit of a pilgrim”. So everyone take a deep breath and simply discuss the topic he broached rather than fighting over a non-existent point that he wasn’t making...
My thoughts exactly the second I read the headline. Uh-Oh!! Get ready for a lashing.
I'm sorry that you interpreted it this way, and that i was mistaken, but i used the word "true pilgrim" to encapsulate the spirit of the albergue, not the type of person who will stay there.How big will this hostel be?
Will it only be open to top 20 true pilgrims?
How do you differentiate the better ones from the just adequate pilgrims?
Perhaps bottom bunks could be saved for those walked the more difficult routes, forget those wimps who did not do the " real" Napoleon route.
Perhaps anyone who does not know the answer to the sleeping bag question should be excluded?
Not wearing 1000 mile socks? Get outta here!
Secret Handshake?
Bonus points for miles completed?
Does "Never had any blisters" add or detract from your true pilgrim score?
In all honesty, i am quite disappointed and find it quite saddening that i am reading this kind of comment.My thoughts exactly the second I read the headline. Uh-Oh!! Get ready for a lashing.
Fellow pilgrims, let's not get into the 'true pilgrim' debate. Dan, I think I get what you mean. Santiago has become very touristy and commercial over the years. A lot of albergues are pretty similar to the usual hostel. But that is for a reason. Santiago now attracts a lot of visitors. I have no idea about the real figures, but I can imagine that at least half of them are not pilgrims.
Having said that I don't see yet how to create a different type of albergue. I guess the price of renting something will be expensive and you'll have to earn that money back. And how to create that communal pilgrim feeling without selecting at the door?
I like the idea though, but I also think there are already a few alternatives without the possibility of spending the night.
My thoughts exactly the second I read the headline. Uh-Oh!! Get ready for a lashing.
I think that comment was actually not intended to be critical of you, but to recognize that you were going to receive some negative reactions. Whenever the words "true" and "pilgrim" are used together, we can expect to see a firestorm! Unfortunately, you had wandered into that situation, although you had a completely different focus.In all honesty, i am quite disappointed and find it quite saddening that i am reading this kind of comment.
As an observation, I want to point out that I've posted this exact same message on about 30 different Camino facebook groups, and the only negative feedback I've received, which interestingly wasn't even related to the purpose of the post but rather the usage of my words "true pilgrim's albergue" has come from this group.Uh oh, you said "true" pilgrim...
Hey Andreo,Dan:
Before you go too deep into this, I beseech you to speak with staff at the Pilgrim House, Rua Nova, #19 in Santiago.
They have been doing exactly what you envision, and excelling at it for six years, IIRC. The only service they do not provide is overnight accommodations. Learn why they do not do this.
Seriously, check them out. At worst you will be a LOT better informed. At best, you might create a partnership.
Also, I think they may be presently recruiting for full-time staff. Volunteering with them might be a good way to dip your feet into this pond, to test the proverbial waters.
Hope this helps.
As an observation, I want to point out that I've posted this exact same message on about 30 different Camino facebook groups, and the only negative feedback I've received, which interestingly wasn't even related to the purpose of the post but rather the usage of my words "true pilgrim's albergue" has come from this group.
I'm sorry for not being clear, and granted, i can see how using them words now may annoy some people, but this post just wasn't about that, and i was simply using the words to encapsulate the spirit of how the albergue should look and feel.
My thoughts exactly the second I read the headline. Uh-Oh!! Get ready for a lashing.
In all honesty, i am quite disappointed and find it quite saddening that i am reading this kind of comment.
@C clearly, Exactly, I was not being critical of Daniel, not my intention what so ever, thank you for clarifying that.I think that comment was actually not intended to be critical of you, but to recognize that you were going to receive some negative reactions. Whenever the words "true" and "pilgrim" are used together, we can expect to see a firestorm! Unfortunately, you had wandered into that situation, although you had a completely different focus.
Uh oh, you said "true" pilgrim...
I assume he means opposed to those coming on tour buses having walked just the last 100 Km. Maybe “true” is just a bad choice of words.My thoughts exactly the second I read the headline. Uh-Oh!! Get ready for a lashing.
It was hardly an attack and no need for the heart to race. It was sarcastic humor from a few posters and has already been addressed. No need to rehash.WOW how do we get to this point of attacking a choice of words and dissecting it from grammatical correction, assigning intent and assigning judgement that doesn't even exist
This has raised my heart rate and I am not even OP
Some time ago, in my early membership, i asked if people could just respond to the questions an OP posts rather than critiquing things they hadn't even asked for input on
A long term member has reminded us that we are a group of people with different native tongue, different world cultures, and that typing defeats our ability to read ones face, body language and tone to help us better communicate, so it behooves us to pause with restraint of pen and tongue
sorry lecture over.
As Peringrina2000 says we dont want to go back there
ASsfor Dan I am impressed with your willingness to stay on this thread and respond from a place of intent
I agree with you, very well put.I think that comment was actually not intended to be critical of you, but to recognize that you were going to receive some negative reactions. Whenever the words "true" and "pilgrim" are used together, we can expect to see a firestorm! Unfortunately, you had wandered into that situation, although you had a completely different focus.
Hey FourSeasons,
@C clearly, Exactly, I was not being critical of Daniel, not my intention what so ever, thank you for clarifying that.
@Daniel Beaumont, I apologize if my words in my first post were lost in translation. I posted other comments stating I support you and would like to volunteer after walking my Camino in such a place and showed my enthusiasm for you. Yet, you did not react to them. I wish you nothing but the best.
Buen Camino on your upcoming journey.
Hey everyone,
My name’s Dan - i’m originally from Britain but currently live in Bucharest, Romania.
Like many of you, I’m deeply passionate about the Camino and for the last 4 years I’ve walked a different route, and next month I’ll be heading back to Spain for my 5th Camino - the Via de la Plata - starting in Sevilla and ending in Santiago.
But this post isn’t about my upcoming journey. The Camino has impacted my life in so many beautiful ways - the wonderful people i've met, the scenery, realisations & learnings, struggles, the Camino spirit, plus so much more - leaving me full of gratitude and appreciation.
Given all of this.. now i want to give back, which is why i want to share with you an ambitious project idea that’s been on my mind for the last few years, in hope that it resonates in some way with fellow pilgrims out there with a similar dream and vision.
I think there is a great sense of community and spirit amongst people who walk the way, plus the fact that finishing a Camino is such a monumental moment in life that needs, in my opinion, to be celebrated and shared once arriving in Santiago.
However, after hearing many stories of people disappointed and underwhelmed when they reach Santiago de Compostela coupled with a weak selection of true pilgrim Albergues in town, wouldn’t it be great to team up and create an Albergue where pilgrims can finish their journey that epitomises the spirit of the Camino?
I imagine a place where pilgrims can come together to share their stories, learnings and realisations from their journey, as well as reflect and relax in comfort. There would be a pilgrim’s meal every evening, regular workshops/presentations/events, and the Albergue would embody a sense of camaraderie, belonging and community. It would be run by pilgrims too… people who have walked Caminos in the past and want to give back. It doesn't have to be in Santiago but ideally located close by in tranquil nature and towards the end of the route, where all the Caminos converge.
To fill you with a little bit of optimism and to illustrate and assure you that i am deadly serious about bringing this idea to life, I want to tell you a little bit about myself. My background is in hospitality and I have 5 years experience in the hostel industry. I own and run two of the best-rated Hostels in Romania for the last 2 years running, one of which was voted in the top 5 hostels of the world this January.
With that said, i can bring my knowledge, skills and resources for running a successful space to the table, plus the team i work with and people i know who have extensive experience in this field.
However, I’d want to make this a cooperative effort and to form a team to bring this vision to life. So if there’s anyone out there who has a dream to start their own albergue or who resonates with any of what i’ve written above, i’d love to hear from you and i’ve added my contact details below.
By no means is any of this idea concrete, and i am open to ideas, suggestions and feedback.
I am going to be walking from Sevilla to Santiago between May 15th and June 18th, so if anyone is on route and wants to share ideas, then please feel free to get in touch.
All the best and Buen Camino for those lucky enough to be walking the route this year,
Dan
View attachment 55875
I just wanted to pipe in and say I had the chance to meet Daniel here in Pilgrim House something like a year ago. We spent the day together and had a very inspiring conversation.
I would imagine that the type of space Daniel is envisioning would be meeting a need for exactly that type of pilgrim.
- Nate
I agree with you but unfortunately I am not surprised. I find that there is negativity from time to time on the forum, which I believe runs counter to the spirit of the Camino.In all honesty, i am quite disappointed and find it quite saddening that i am reading this kind of comment.
I dont think the energy of SDC is the problem, the whole way from Sarria to the end finished me off, as soon as i saw the cathedral i decided to change my flight yet again and get out of dodge. Currently waiting at a Corunna airport to get home.I assume he means opposed to those coming on tour buses having walked just the last 100 Km. Maybe “true” is just a bad choice of words.
I'll be waiting forI think it's a fabulous idea! I would love to! Of course I should probably walk my first Camino before I go opening an albergue.
Awhile back there was an albergue for sale that was a nice fit for my budget but my mom's estate hadn't closed. Ultimately, I thought it might be wise to walk first. A little putting the cart before the horse. And it wasn't in the cards for that opportunity. I'm still waiting for the go-ahead to close my mom's estate.And I'm still waiting to walk!!
I love the enthusiasm and the sense of adventure. It's always wonderful to meet people who are passionate.
I'd love to get involved!Hello,
Sorry if i was misunderstood, but I was simply using the word to capture the essence of how the albergue would look, feel and be - nothing to do with the type of pilgrim who will stay there.
I've walked several camino's now, stayed at 100s of Albergues now, and taken notes upon notes about what i really liked, disliked or thought could be improved from the perspective of hospitality (that's an important distinction to make here). It would be a case of bringing all those ideas together, plus the ideas of the pilgrims who would like to get involved to create a special place towards the end of the Camino.
All the best,
Dan
My thoughts exactly the second I read the headline. Uh-Oh!! Get ready for a lashing.
I am looking for a reason why any good person would post such poor sarcasm... and finding none.How big will this hostel be?
Will it only be open to top 20 true pilgrims?
How do you differentiate the better ones from the just adequate pilgrims?
Perhaps bottom bunks could be saved for those walked the more difficult routes, forget those wimps who did not do the " real" Napoleon route.
Perhaps anyone who does not know the answer to the sleeping bag question should be excluded?
Not wearing 1000 mile socks? Get outta here!
Secret Handshake?
Bonus points for miles completed?
Does "Never had any blisters" add or detract from your true pilgrim score?
Don't let the grouchy old farts get you down.Hey everyone,
My name’s Dan - i’m originally from Britain but currently live in Bucharest, Romania.
Like many of you, I’m deeply passionate about the Camino and for the last 4 years I’ve walked a different route, and next month I’ll be heading back to Spain for my 5th Camino - the Via de la Plata - starting in Sevilla and ending in Santiago.
But this post isn’t about my upcoming journey. The Camino has impacted my life in so many beautiful ways - the wonderful people i've met, the scenery, realisations & learnings, struggles, the Camino spirit, plus so much more - leaving me full of gratitude and appreciation.
Given all of this.. now i want to give back, which is why i want to share with you an ambitious project idea that’s been on my mind for the last few years, in hope that it resonates in some way with fellow pilgrims out there with a similar dream and vision.
I think there is a great sense of community and spirit amongst people who walk the way, plus the fact that finishing a Camino is such a monumental moment in life that needs, in my opinion, to be celebrated and shared once arriving in Santiago.
However, after hearing many stories of people disappointed and underwhelmed when they reach Santiago de Compostela coupled with a weak selection of true pilgrim Albergues in town, wouldn’t it be great to team up and create an Albergue where pilgrims can finish their journey that epitomises the spirit of the Camino?
I imagine a place where pilgrims can come together to share their stories, learnings and realisations from their journey, as well as reflect and relax in comfort. There would be a pilgrim’s meal every evening, regular workshops/presentations/events, and the Albergue would embody a sense of camaraderie, belonging and community. It would be run by pilgrims too… people who have walked Caminos in the past and want to give back. It doesn't have to be in Santiago but ideally located close by in tranquil nature and towards the end of the route, where all the Caminos converge.
To fill you with a little bit of optimism and to illustrate and assure you that i am deadly serious about bringing this idea to life, I want to tell you a little bit about myself. My background is in hospitality and I have 5 years experience in the hostel industry. I own and run two of the best-rated Hostels in Romania for the last 2 years running, one of which was voted in the top 5 hostels of the world this January.
With that said, i can bring my knowledge, skills and resources for running a successful space to the table, plus the team i work with and people i know who have extensive experience in this field.
However, I’d want to make this a cooperative effort and to form a team to bring this vision to life. So if there’s anyone out there who has a dream to start their own albergue or who resonates with any of what i’ve written above, i’d love to hear from you and i’ve added my contact details below.
By no means is any of this idea concrete, and i am open to ideas, suggestions and feedback.
I am going to be walking from Sevilla to Santiago between May 15th and June 18th, so if anyone is on route and wants to share ideas, then please feel free to get in touch.
All the best and Buen Camino for those lucky enough to be walking the route this year,
Dan
View attachment 55875
trying to capture the essence of the camino spirit, I think i understand this part now. I've spent the last 4 years walking the Camino trying to figure this part out, taking notes and speaking to pilgrims at every albergue i stayed at.
Your desire is honourable Daniel , but if you wish to keep that black hair i suggest you stay away from a pilgrims albergue in SDC
There are better opportunities available if you have plenty of euros .
The town is full mate , very expensive to lease and impossible to own.
I know on the 7 occasions we have arrived the accommodation has got better, better and better
And in saying that i believe 90% of all arrivals who commenced in France want to upgrade just a little on the final night.
If i was 40 yrs younger Dan i would be thinking the same as you.
Keep well.
Don't you misquote me Boydie old boy.If 90% of all pilgrims arriving in Santiago want to upgrade a little when arriving then there is 10% who can't afford to upgrade (or don't want to). I have walked with many who dread the cost there, and many who walk on to Finisterre etc because Santiago is just too expensive. 10% is a massive number most of the year. And I think it is much more than 10%, but who knows!
All good points though.
Davey
Don't you misquote me Boydie old boy.
I did say 90% of those who commenced in StJPP or even further away in France [ Arles / Le Puy etc ] need this slight up grade not the mob from Sarria etc.
Yes SDC is expensive but no more expensive than Le Puy onwards .
A beer a day less for the journey will allow a lovely pension.
Deprive yourself "Two" beers a day [don't do it] you now have a good hotel.
I think most who immediately go on to the coast would have stayed on the hill , just 5km short the night before .
I love Daniels thoughts and i could give you 3 villages where i would love to set up a fair dinkum albergue showing love , care & donation only [ man on door in case its a coin they deposit] and deprive a few greedy landlords ...........but Davey old boy , Ivar gave me my last warning yesterday
Keep well mate.
To divert the conversation in a more positive direction, and to avoid any more conversations about what a pilgrim is/isn't, which certainly wasn't my intention, i have removed "true" from the title of my post.
Personally, I don't plan to stay in Santiago long before heading out to Finisterre. I'm wondering if also it wouldn't be wise to consider starting an albergue in a place with less infrastructure, a mid-point between Orrison and Roncesvaille
I rather like the oasis on the Meseta idea. But getting utilities into such a remote location might be a challenge.
there is the entire local political
Personally, I don't plan to stay in Santiago long before heading out to Finisterre.
Daniel, you use the phrase “tap into” quite a lot and I think it is at the heart of your whole idea. There are so many arrivals in Santiago you only need to focus on a small percentage for your venture to reflect your vision and fulfil a real need. I would see that small percentage being the first-time pilgrims, who have probably come a long way and are completely overwhelmed at suddenly confronting the end of their pilgrimage in the chaos and sheer wonder that can be Santiago. That was me in 2012....words to encapsulate the spirit of how the albergue should look and feel.
You’re a visionary Dan; with the power to inspire others (ie: Nate) and the capacity to realise your visions (ie: your hostels in Romania). I’ve walked 7 Caminos to Santiago, enjoyed every arrival and subsequent stay there but never found the type of hostel you describe, and would have liked to. Seminario Menor feels like the closest and it’s now my accommodation of choice, but it’s not what you’re describing.Hey everyone,
My name’s Dan - i’m originally from Britain but currently live in Bucharest, Romania.
Like many of you, I’m deeply passionate about the Camino and for the last 4 years I’ve walked a different route, and next month I’ll be heading back to Spain for my 5th Camino - the Via de la Plata - starting in Sevilla and ending in Santiago.
But this post isn’t about my upcoming journey. The Camino has impacted my life in so many beautiful ways - the wonderful people i've met, the scenery, realisations & learnings, struggles, the Camino spirit, plus so much more - leaving me full of gratitude and appreciation.
Given all of this.. now i want to give back, which is why i want to share with you an ambitious project idea that’s been on my mind for the last few years, in hope that it resonates in some way with fellow pilgrims out there with a similar dream and vision.
I think there is a great sense of community and spirit amongst people who walk the way, plus the fact that finishing a Camino is such a monumental moment in life that needs, in my opinion, to be celebrated and shared once arriving in Santiago.
However, after hearing many stories of people disappointed and underwhelmed when they reach Santiago de Compostela coupled with a weak selection of true pilgrim Albergues in town, wouldn’t it be great to team up and create an Albergue where pilgrims can finish their journey that epitomises the spirit of the Camino?
I imagine a place where pilgrims can come together to share their stories, learnings and realisations from their journey, as well as reflect and relax in comfort. There would be a pilgrim’s meal every evening, regular workshops/presentations/events, and the Albergue would embody a sense of camaraderie, belonging and community. It would be run by pilgrims too… people who have walked Caminos in the past and want to give back. It doesn't have to be in Santiago but ideally located close by in tranquil nature and towards the end of the route, where all the Caminos converge.
To fill you with a little bit of optimism and to illustrate and assure you that i am deadly serious about bringing this idea to life, I want to tell you a little bit about myself. My background is in hospitality and I have 5 years experience in the hostel industry. I own and run two of the best-rated Hostels in Romania for the last 2 years running, one of which was voted in the top 5 hostels of the world this January.
With that said, i can bring my knowledge, skills and resources for running a successful space to the table, plus the team i work with and people i know who have extensive experience in this field.
However, I’d want to make this a cooperative effort and to form a team to bring this vision to life. So if there’s anyone out there who has a dream to start their own albergue or who resonates with any of what i’ve written above, i’d love to hear from you and i’ve added my contact details below.
By no means is any of this idea concrete, and i am open to ideas, suggestions and feedback.
I am going to be walking from Sevilla to Santiago between May 15th and June 18th, so if anyone is on route and wants to share ideas, then please feel free to get in touch.
All the best and Buen Camino for those lucky enough to be walking the route this year,
Dan
View attachment 55875
Though the owners at Orrison might not be best pleased
I'm sure there are reasons why it hasn't happened.
Me too!Personally, when I do stay in Santiago I always stay at Roots & Boots albergue. The family who run it have become like a second family to me and I love them dearly...
Hi Dan, Just to let you know, I am a volunteer at the Pilgrims Office in Santiago, working for the Dutch St James Society. We run a 'living room' for newly arrived pilgrims, with the sole purpose of allowing pilgrims to let off steam, tell their stories, have a cup of tea, share. I know other countries also have these rooms in the same building, I believe the Americans, the French, the Brits. The pilgrims office itself also has psychologists on duty. I would love to forge some kind of connection between your idea of the albergue and these 'living rooms'. I'll be there myself in the last two weeks of October this year, and can help to get people in touch. It's all about connecting people isn't it?Dan:
Before you go too deep into this, I beseech you to speak with staff at the Pilgrim House, Rua Nova, #19 in Santiago.
They have been doing exactly what you envision, and excelling at it for six years, IIRC. The only service they do not provide is overnight accommodations. Learn why they do not do this.
Seriously, check them out. At worst you will be a LOT better informed. At best, you might create a partnership.
Also, I think they may be presently recruiting for full-time staff. Volunteering with them might be a good way to dip your feet into this pond, to test the proverbial waters.
Hope this helps.
UPDATE: I am adding that Nate, of NateFaith fame, posted below (post #32 in this thread) to add that they are already in consultations and discussions with the OP. So, the OP had already adopted my essential advice.
Hi Dan, we’re a bit further in time, and I wonder if you ever got any further with yr plan to start an albergue, especially since the pandemic. I am currently working on a plan to start an albergue but I don’t want to do that on my own so I am basically googling to find people. I have walked to Santiago over several routes. My plan is a bit different than yours, but still, i would love to get in toch and hear from you and how far you’ve gotten.Hey everyone,
My name’s Dan - i’m originally from Britain but currently live in Bucharest, Romania.
Like many of you, I’m deeply passionate about the Camino and for the last 4 years I’ve walked a different route, and next month I’ll be heading back to Spain for my 5th Camino - the Via de la Plata - starting in Sevilla and ending in Santiago.
But this post isn’t about my upcoming journey. The Camino has impacted my life in so many beautiful ways - the wonderful people i've met, the scenery, realisations & learnings, struggles, the Camino spirit, plus so much more - leaving me full of gratitude and appreciation.
Given all of this.. now i want to give back, which is why i want to share with you an ambitious project idea that’s been on my mind for the last few years, in hope that it resonates in some way with fellow pilgrims out there with a similar dream and vision.
I think there is a great sense of community and spirit amongst people who walk the way, plus the fact that finishing a Camino is such a monumental moment in life that needs, in my opinion, to be celebrated and shared once arriving in Santiago.
However, after hearing many stories of people disappointed and underwhelmed when they reach Santiago de Compostela coupled with a weak selection of true pilgrim Albergues in town, wouldn’t it be great to team up and create an Albergue where pilgrims can finish their journey that epitomises the spirit of the Camino?
I imagine a place where pilgrims can come together to share their stories, learnings and realisations from their journey, as well as reflect and relax in comfort. There would be a pilgrim’s meal every evening, regular workshops/presentations/events, and the Albergue would embody a sense of camaraderie, belonging and community. It would be run by pilgrims too… people who have walked Caminos in the past and want to give back. It doesn't have to be in Santiago but ideally located close by in tranquil nature and towards the end of the route, where all the Caminos converge.
To fill you with a little bit of optimism and to illustrate and assure you that i am deadly serious about bringing this idea to life, I want to tell you a little bit about myself. My background is in hospitality and I have 5 years experience in the hostel industry. I own and run two of the best-rated Hostels in Romania for the last 2 years running, one of which was voted in the top 5 hostels of the world this January.
With that said, i can bring my knowledge, skills and resources for running a successful space to the table, plus the team i work with and people i know who have extensive experience in this field.
However, I’d want to make this a cooperative effort and to form a team to bring this vision to life. So if there’s anyone out there who has a dream to start their own albergue or who resonates with any of what i’ve written above, i’d love to hear from you and i’ve added my contact details below.
By no means is any of this idea concrete, and i am open to ideas, suggestions and feedback.
I am going to be walking from Sevilla to Santiago between May 15th and June 18th, so if anyone is on route and wants to share ideas, then please feel free to get in touch.
All the best and Buen Camino for those lucky enough to be walking the route this year,
Dan
View attachment 55875
Hey everyone,
My name’s Dan - i’m originally from Britain but currently live in Bucharest, Romania.
Like many of you, I’m deeply passionate about the Camino and for the last 4 years I’ve walked a different route, and next month I’ll be heading back to Spain for my 5th Camino - the Via de la Plata - starting in Sevilla and ending in Santiago.
But this post isn’t about my upcoming journey. The Camino has impacted my life in so many beautiful ways - the wonderful people i've met, the scenery, realisations & learnings, struggles, the Camino spirit, plus so much more - leaving me full of gratitude and appreciation.
Given all of this.. now i want to give back, which is why i want to share with you an ambitious project idea that’s been on my mind for the last few years, in hope that it resonates in some way with fellow pilgrims out there with a similar dream and vision.
I think there is a great sense of community and spirit amongst people who walk the way, plus the fact that finishing a Camino is such a monumental moment in life that needs, in my opinion, to be celebrated and shared once arriving in Santiago.
However, after hearing many stories of people disappointed and underwhelmed when they reach Santiago de Compostela coupled with a weak selection of true pilgrim Albergues in town, wouldn’t it be great to team up and create an Albergue where pilgrims can finish their journey that epitomises the spirit of the Camino?
I imagine a place where pilgrims can come together to share their stories, learnings and realisations from their journey, as well as reflect and relax in comfort. There would be a pilgrim’s meal every evening, regular workshops/presentations/events, and the Albergue would embody a sense of camaraderie, belonging and community. It would be run by pilgrims too… people who have walked Caminos in the past and want to give back. It doesn't have to be in Santiago but ideally located close by in tranquil nature and towards the end of the route, where all the Caminos converge.
To fill you with a little bit of optimism and to illustrate and assure you that i am deadly serious about bringing this idea to life, I want to tell you a little bit about myself. My background is in hospitality and I have 5 years experience in the hostel industry. I own and run two of the best-rated Hostels in Romania for the last 2 years running, one of which was voted in the top 5 hostels of the world this January.
With that said, i can bring my knowledge, skills and resources for running a successful space to the table, plus the team i work with and people i know who have extensive experience in this field.
However, I’d want to make this a cooperative effort and to form a team to bring this vision to life. So if there’s anyone out there who has a dream to start their own albergue or who resonates with any of what i’ve written above, i’d love to hear from you and i’ve added my contact details below.
By no means is any of this idea concrete, and i am open to ideas, suggestions and feedback.
I am going to be walking from Sevilla to Santiago between May 15th and June 18th, so if anyone is on route and wants to share ideas, then please feel free to get in touch.
All the best and Buen Camino for those lucky enough to be walking the route this year,
Dan
View attachment 55875
"The only service they do not provide is overnight accommodations. Learn why they do not do this"Dan:
Before you go too deep into this, I beseech you to speak with staff at the Pilgrim House, Rua Nova, #19 in Santiago.
They have been doing exactly what you envision, and excelling at it for six years, IIRC. The only service they do not provide is overnight accommodations. Learn why they do not do this.
Seriously, check them out. At worst you will be a LOT better informed. At best, you might create a partnership.
Also, I think they may be presently recruiting for full-time staff. Volunteering with them might be a good way to dip your feet into this pond, to test the proverbial waters.
Hope this helps.
UPDATE: I am adding that Nate, of NateFaith fame, posted below (post #32 in this thread) to add that they are already in consultations and discussions with the OP. So, the OP had already adopted my essential advice.
Perhaps because he cannot speak for them.If you know their reason, why not share it?
The OP was Last seen Apr 23, 2022 on this Forum...Hi Dan, we’re a bit further in time, and I wonder if you ever got any further with yr plan to start an albergue, especially since the pandemic. I am currently working on a plan to start an albergue but I don’t want to do that on my own so I am basically googling to find people. I have walked to Santiago over several routes. My plan is a bit different than yours, but still, i would love to get in toch and hear from you and how far you’ve gotten.
Kind regards,
Ingeborg
I
And has probably since met with a decent accountant.The OP was Last seen Apr 23, 2022 on this Forum...
And has probably since met with a decent accountant.
Cannot help thinking that the way he was "received" here was part of his decision to leave us/this Forum. A shame. I cannot help thinking that his idea and vision was a good and well-meant one. Sorry we scared him away to find other grounds.The OP was Last seen Apr 23, 2022 on this Forum...
I agree that his vision seemed well intended and the principle should be encouraged.Cannot help thinking that the way he was "received" here was part of his decision to leave us/this Forum. A shame. I cannot help thinking that his idea and vision was a good and well-meant one. Sorry we scared him away to find other grounds.
What's the point of pushing down someone who just wants to do good?
I believe he would have brought value and reflection to many, also on this Forum.
A lesson to be learned for many...
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