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LIVE from the Camino SNCF, St Jean and a silver lining

Bradypus

Migratory hermit
Time of past OR future Camino
Too many and too often!
There have been quite a few posts recently about overcrowding in the early stages of the Frances. This evening this problem extended as far back as Bayonne station. I was one of 15 passengers removed from the last train of the day before departure because numbers far exceeded capacity - even with many sitting on the floor in the areas near the carriage doors. In fairness to SNCF I should point out that it was done very politely, with clear explanations and apologies and an assurance that alternative transport would be found. In fact a fleet of four taxis were very promptly hired by SNCF and delivered us to St Jean only a few minutes after the train's arrival time.

Walking up Rue de la Citadelle I saw several "complet" signs and a significant number of rucksack-toting hopefuls zig-zagging between albergues. So I was delighted to be remembered and warmly welcomed back to Beilari and splendidly fed and housed for the night. The second time I have arrived here by taxi - the last occasion being the day I fell and suffered a prolapsed spinal disc :-( Nice to arrive in style - however unexpectedly - while still fit enough to enjoy it :)
 
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Wow. I have never heard of a similar situation in Bayonne. And kudos for the SNCF; it made both the responsible and the right thing.
I hope you can walk to Roncesvalles without more incidents than tiredness and sore feet:)
Buen camino!
 
I caught train from Bayonne on Monday at 11am and there seemed to be plenty of seats ..... Some locals ... Some pilgrims .... I didn't count but did not seem to be hoards ....

Anne
 
A selection of Camino Jewellery
The first edition came out in 2003 and has become the go-to-guide for many pilgrims over the years. It is shipping with a Pilgrim Passport (Credential) from the cathedral in Santiago de Compostela.
How is it so far Annie ?
 

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