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As the title says, it's gonna be my first Camino ever.
I've heard of the Camino since when I was studying history in college (that was about 2008-2009) but I could never commit to it. I told myself I'd do it after I start working and saving enough money, but when I did have a job and money, I never had the time. I'm sure it's a tale as old as time on this forum.... You won't believe how many times I browsed through the threads here, planning to go, only to postpone it again and again.
Until now. I just quit my job on New Year's Eve. Now I have no more excuse not to go. I'll be starting my Camino from either Samos or Triacastela on Saturday. Yes, it's gonna be just a short stretch compared to the whole route, but to be honest with you, I'm excited as much as nervous about it.
A bit about myself: I'm from Thailand, so the journey across the Eurasian continent is gonna be a thrilling experience itself for me... I can't shake off this irrational fear that something would go wrong with my documents and the Spanish immigration won't let me in. Or maybe the border would be closed at the last minute. Well, I'm not turning back now so I'll find out in 48 hours from now. My flight leaves Bangkok at 1am on Thursday.
As you can imagine, I'm from a tropical country, so trekking across countryside in heart of Galician winter is definitely a daunting experience to me, to say the least. To give you some perspective, it was 29 C today in Bangkok. I can't imagine how 'shocked' my body would be. I've never done this sort of hiking either (I've been a very protected city dweller all my life, I'm ashamed to admit).
Anyway sorry for the rant, I just want to share this 'historic' moment in my life with all of you. If anyone has any tips that will help this tropical city dude survive the Camino, please please do share!!
Merino wool socks are good. Many people swear by them. I sometimes wear them, but I usually wear WrightSocks double layer socks.Thank you so much everyone!!
I'd need merino wool socks as well, yes? Seen them recommended few times, so I think I'll buy them in Madrid when I arrive.
Thank you!! Will try that as well.Merino wool socks are good. Many people swear by them. I sometimes wear them, but I usually wear WrightSocks double layer socks.
Have a safe journey and Buen Camino! And yes, be sure to contact albergues the day before to make sure they'll be open. Many place have closed down for winter, but on the Camino Frances you'll have a better chance of finding things open than on other routes.
Already booked my stay! I opt for private rooms in pensions and albergues for my first Camino walk, partly because I want to spare fellow godfearing pilgrims from my devilish snores....
Yes. Good socks of high quality and shoes or boots that are well broken in and fit you perfectly. Again, many pointers on the forum.Thank you so much everyone!!
I'd need merino wool socks as well, yes? Seen them recommended few times, so I think I'll buy them in Madrid when I arrive.
Ok I will! I arrived in Dubai just now, waiting for the flight to Madrid. Will find out soon enough if the Spanish immigration will let me in.@teeranaic Please drop a note back on this thread to let us know how it went for you.
Buen Camino! Keep your heart open and your feet moving. Please keep writing updates (if you feel to) as my Camino Francés was interrupted at Burgos and I would like to continue in the near future.UPDATE: I have landed in Madrid! Amazing weather. I hope i'll get to see more sunny days like this on the Camino!
Getting past the immigration was wayyy smoother than I thought. They just asked to scan my SpTh (health control form) app then asked me how many days in Spain, the purpose of my visit etc. I actually answered "the Camino" for the latter query, and the gentleman replied, "Very great. Buen Camino."
What a great way to arrive in Spain!
The joy is sadly soured by some bad news though. I just learned right before I left bangkok that my sister in law was diagnosed with some rare blood cell cancer... and honestly the odds arent great. Realistically we are hoping for a peaceful passing for her at this point. My aunt, who relayed me the news, also asked me to keep my sister in law in prayers on the Camino.
And just like that, my first Camino just took a morbid turn lol. Sigh thats how life lotteries work out sometimes i suppose.
The Camino provides lots of time for prayer and reflection. I pray that your walking conveys peace and healing comfort for you, your sister in law and family back home.UPDATE: I have landed in Madrid! Amazing weather. I hope i'll get to see more sunny days like this on the Camino!
Getting past the immigration was wayyy smoother than I thought. They just asked to scan my SpTh (health control form) app then asked me how many days in Spain, the purpose of my visit etc. I actually answered "the Camino" for the latter query, and the gentleman replied, "Very great. Buen Camino."
What a great way to arrive in Spain!
The joy is sadly soured by some bad news though. I just learned right before I left bangkok that my sister in law was diagnosed with some rare blood cell cancer... and honestly the odds arent great. Realistically we are hoping for a peaceful passing for her at this point. My aunt, who relayed me the news, also asked me to keep my sister in law in prayers on the Camino.
And just like that, my first Camino just took a morbid turn lol. Sigh thats how life lotteries work out sometimes i suppose.
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