Massage

[MattPeregrino]

I'm planning on walking the camino Frances from St Jean in September and financing it by offering fairly cheap massage treatments (feet, legs and shoulders) to my fellow pilgrims. I'm keen to hear from past pilgrims about whether they have seen anyone else doing this and what they would consider a fair price. My intention is not to make a profit, but more to just cover my costs. Thanks.

 

[beiramar]

Technically it's illegal to charge for services without getting registered or paying tax? Or am I wrong?
You might take clients away from the established local service providers.

 

[MichaelB10398]

Buen Camino, Matt,
You are opening a bit of a sticky wicket. I think that beiramar has the right of it; unless you live in the EU you may run into some legal hurdles that prevent such an activity. On the other hand, if you were offered your services on a "donativo" basis - the pilgrims pay what they can for feel good about - then you may be able to slide by.

The Camino for many is a pilgrimage. Such an path is taken with a certain frame of mind that is often based upon serving others - assisting others where, how, and when one is able. Yet, there are many that walk the Camino that are there for an adventure in a foreign land and enjoy having additional services along the way. This tension between the two approaches is always there and will continue to be so. They each have a very definite impact on the ambiance of the Camino itself. I hope I am explaining this well enough for you to appreciate a different perspective that others may have of your objective and desires.

I expect that there will be some, if not many, that would really appreciate your service. I am sure we have some EU business people here, Ivar is one, that can give you their advice on such a proposal. Regardless of the answer you find, come and be welcome on Camino.

Cheers,

Michael

 

[Jas Asyiken]

Since you are blessed with such wonderful skills, maybe you can consider offering it sincerely to pilgrims who are in need of your soothing remedy and leave it to faith to provide for your needs. That way, it won't feel like work and the Camino don't have to be your workplace.

 

[MinaKamina]

Hi MattPeregrino, a fair price is what covers your needs at that moment. Meaning a meal, or a bed.
I think bartering is a better strategy than setting a fixed price.
That said, if you give great massages, your clients will probably come crawling once they see how the first one is revived