new aussies starting Easter 2009

[Mish]

Aussie Hello to everyone
We (2 girls) have booked our tickets and fly to London on 5th April so will start our walk probably only a day or so before Good Friday..will we have any problems with places being closed??
Mish

 

[Deirdre]

Welcome Aussies!

Spain definitely celebrates Semana Santa! Many shops and bars will probably be closed 1/2 day on Good Friday and throughout the weekend...so be aware you may be liimited in what you can buy in terms of provisions. I believe the majority of albergues will be open.

It just requires a little extra preparation, and if you are aware of it, you don't get caught short or disappointed. It is similar to regular weekend closings, just longer, and with more celebrations!

Buen Camino,

 

[jl]

Hello and welcome Mish, Can't answer what would be, or not be, closed, but I think it would be very exciting being there for holy week - I believe there are all sorts of processions over that week - particularly in the big cities. Keep your eye on the Spanish news on SBS - it is on at 8.30a.m. (in SA) Mond to Sat. It will give you a good idea about the current events (like the big freeze that is apparentyly on now). All the best with your planning. Cheers, Janet

 

[William Marques]

I have travelled in Spain during Holy Week and while there were plenty of celebrations we have never had a problem with accommodation or food. Good Friday and Easter Sunday may be a little more difficult but I cannot recall any problems.

On the other hand the statistics from Santiago always show a big increase in numbers of compostelas issued during the month in which Easter falls. This means that there are a lot of pilgrims arriving in Santiago over the Easter break. If you are starting from St Jean or Roncesvalles it may not affect you but be prepared for the Camino to be busy over Easter.

 

[Deleted member 3000]

Some refuges open on Easter (Paques on the attached SJPdP Welcome Center spreadsheet). Not all the data from the list is accurate!