Socializing with other pilgrims on the Camino

[HallOfFreedom]

My intent is to go on my first Camino in the fall, and I'm curious what the social atmosphere I can expect will be. I'll be traveling solo for a few reasons, but am not in anyway opposed to making friends along the way. Do people tend to group up (except for those who want solitude, obviously), or is it more likely that you just run in to some of the same folks in this town or that one?

 

[C clearly]

Some people form fast friendships and stick together constantly, and others like to be alone all the way. The majority of independent pilgrims seem to develop loose relationships with a number of people who they encounter frequently (or occasionally). Many people prefer to walk alone during the day but join a group that forms at the albergues in the evenings to eat together. It is very easy to join the group or not, depending on your preference that day.

Even late into the fall, there is a great social atmosphere. I would recommend being open to company on the first day or two especially, when almost everyone is feeling uncertain yet open and excited. If you find you have too much company, then just choose a different walking speed and stay in a different town from the people you wish to separate from. People separate off, all the time, and then you see them again!

 

[SYates]

My intent is to go on my first Camino in the fall, and I'm curious what the social atmosphere I can expect will be. I'll be traveling solo for a few reasons, but am not in anyway opposed to making friends along the way. Do people tend to group up (except for those who want solitude, obviously), or is it more likely that you just run in to some of the same folks in this town or that one?

A bit of everything really. Like @C clearly wrote it is completely up to you how much you want to socialise and when, also in fall are still a lot, but not too many, pilgrims on the way so you will have a good 'selection' of possible Camino friends.
Buen Camino! SY

 

[Peter Fransiscus]

Hy , it is your choice what you want to do . I wish you happy planning and a Buen Camino , Peter .

 

[Dutch]

@C clearly has said it all. Thats the way it is. Its great!

 

[Walter1407]

Some people form fast friendships and stick together constantly, and others like to be alone all the way. The majority of independent pilgrims seem to develop loose relationships with a number of people who they encounter frequently (or occasionally). Many people prefer to walk alone during the day but join a group that forms at the albergues in the evenings to eat together. It is very easy to join the group or not, depending on your preference that day.

I second that. The members of my Camino family mostly walked alone, so we could move at the speed which was most comfortable. Accommodation we booked ahead where this was possible, and whoever got there first signed in all of us. There were also some other pilgrims whom we met regularly, and who sometimes joined us for e.g. a meal.

I remember an occasion when a young Spanish guy forgot his watch which he had attached to the bunk bed. I took it with me. When I had finished the day's walk, I only had to ask two pilgrims to find out where the Spaniard was staying.

 

[rometimed]

My goal is to find someone that can speak English and Spanish and follow them *nod*

 

[HallOfFreedom]

My goal is to find someone that can speak English and Spanish and follow them *nod*

Sounds like a smart plan

 

[scruffy1]

Walter got it right, nothing worse than trying to match your pace with someone slower or faster than yourself. Many people like to chat as they walk others find it tiring.The differences aren't usually all that much but it can be irritating to catchup walk all day or to poke along. Fix a lunch spot, say a village cafe, and try to fix the evening stop, no real need to reserve. Everyone tends to fall into the same albergues, the same church, same close by square anyway. Fix dinner communally or eat out. A bottle of Navarra, Rioja, or Bierzo wine depending on your geography will cement a budding friendship.

 

[Walter1407]

Fix dinner communally or eat out. A bottle of Navarra, Rioja, or Bierzo wine depending on your geography will cement a budding friendship.

As a fan of Ribeira del Duero wine I have been wondering whether they should redirect the Camino.

 

[HallOfFreedom]

I have yet to find a variety of wine here in the States that I like, but I am looking forward to trying some there

 

[scruffy1]

As a fan of Ribeira del Duero wine I have been wondering whether they should redirect the Camino.

Villafranca del Bierzo is the place can be found in grocery stores on into Galicia if you look for it.

 

[scruffy1]

I have yet to find a variety of wine here in the States that I like, but I am looking forward to trying some there

Easy, avoid the Rioja and Navarra offered in cafe/bars by the glass-mostly rotgut. Spring for a bottle at a grocery chain 5-6 Euro will be more than good enough to sample at dinner time. In Santiago go big, look for an Albariño, a wonderful wonderful white wine starts off at 10 Euro for something passable but the sky is the limit.

 

[Walter1407]

I have yet to find a variety of wine here in the States that I like, but I am looking forward to trying some there

Villafranca del Bierzo is the place can be found in grocery stores on into Galicia if you look for it.

If you start in Switzerland, you'll also walk through wine regions on Lake Geneva, in the Rhone river valley, in Cahors, other small wine areas and of course through the Armanac region. I am a little embarrassed to admit that two of my rest days in France were unplanned, caused by the the in-depth study of local wines.

 

[mspath]

...A bottle of Navarra, Rioja, or Bierzo wine depending on your geography will cement a budding friendship.

Or even a glass of hot tea will do it! Years ago in winter a young Spanish fellow, Carlos, and I were the only pilgrims on the cold albergue floor at Granon. Outside it was sleeting. We chatted for many hours in English, French and my then very limited Spanish. He was curious about 'finding himself" and wanted to know how I had 'found my way'. Morning came and after tea and toast we wished each other 'Buen camino' and continued our solitary journeys. Days passed and eventually I arrived at Castrojeriz in snow and sleet. Imagine my delighted surprise when I saw Carlos waving to me from the San Esteban albergue. He said "Hola Margaret what about another tea?" Served boiling hot in an old jam jar it was more than delicious...Simple comfort of basic shelter, serendipity of chance encounter, and sincere generous sharing can be so memorable.

 

[amorfati1]

If you start in Switzerland, you'll also walk through wine regions on Lake Geneva, in the Rhone river valley, in Cahors, other small wine areas and of course through the Armanac region. I am a little embarrassed to admit that two of my rest days in France were unplanned, caused by the the in-depth study of local wines.

why embarrassed??
sounds to me, that is a very sensible reason to choose rest days. Well done! and i 100% endorse the wine-tasting in the region of Lac Leman (lake geneva) - but of course, i am clearly biased! saluti! c

 

[Walter1407]

why embarrassed??
sounds to me, that is a very sensible reason to choose rest days. Well done! and i 100% endorse the wine-tasting in the region of Lac Leman (lake geneva) - but of course, i am clearly biased! saluti! c

Well, my in-depth studies resulted in partial memory loss and the need for double doses of aspirins.

 

[t2andreo]

You will encounter all types of personalities along the Camino. The folks above have stated most of the important stuff.

I would like to toss into the dialog that on my first Camino, I encountered more than one pilgrim hand-lettered signs on their rucksacks saying: "Silent Pilgrim Please // Silencioso Pilgrim Favor," or "I prefer silence please // Yo prefiero el silencio por favor," or just "Silence please? // Silêncio, por favor?" It was usually written in waterproof "Sharpie" marker, black on an ad hoc piece of cardboard, I recall in at least one instance.

I suppose if this was your intention from the start, you might prepare a suitable sign at home. I would suggest making it two-sided, printed in a very large font from a computer and self-laminated in a plastic sheet for water resistance. For visibility, I suggest bold black type on a white background. The laminate sheets are usually available in any stationery store. Punch two holes in the "top edge" and fasten to your rucksack with an appropriate fastening method.

You could state it in English / French on one side and English / Spanish on the other. For folks doing the Portuguese, I would recommend English / Portuguese on one side and English / Spanish on the other.

For example:

English: I prefer silence please.
French: Je préfère le silence SVP (se il vous plaît...). [Use the SVP. It is the common acronym in France for "se il vous plaît."]
Portuguese: Eu prefiro o silêncio por favor.
Spanish: Yo prefiero el silencio por favor.​

Personally, were I to choose this method, I would place it facing to the REAR of my rucksack like a license tag on a vehicle. This enables people approaching you to see it, and not be offended if you do not respond to their customary "buen Camino" greeting.

But, being the affable "Handy Smurf" "helper outer" that I am, I tend towards chattiness at first encounter. I am not offended by any brush-off. I treat it as above, just smile, nod, tip a salute, and carry-on.

On my two Caminos, I have seen many pilgrims with Catholic rosary beads, Buddhist prayer beads, and encountered some chanting pilgrims. In fact, in June 2014, I even encountered three Japanese Shinto priests while I was a volunteer AMIGO at the Pilgrim Office. WOW! That was a cultural shift! These fellows presented themselves at the Pilgrim Office in full traditional regalia, including rice straw hats, sandals and taibi socks (with the split to wear zori sandals)! Fortunately, I had a camera handy... but I have digressed...

Anyway, once it is apparent that the person does not desire communication, I just smile, nod, salute, and QUIETLY pass them by.

As one of the informal but long-standing Camino Rules states: "Each pilgrim must ultimately do their own Camino, in their own manner..."

I hope this helps...

 

[Arn]

HoF...welcome to the Forum and the Class of 2015.
You are now in full saturation mode. One simple question on socializing and you learn of sleeping on floors, tea in jam jars, sleeting, slowpokes and rabbits.
Most importantly, the discourse on Vino.
Not everyone that cooks in the albergue kitchen will be a true chef, but add a bottle of the local vino and a gourmand's delight is in the offing.
I completely agree about purchasing your vino from a wine shop. The price is fair and the selection excellent. I know Scruffy1 mentioned grocery stores; though I have found, especially in Santiago and other larger towns...look for the bottles that are off in a corner, or at least away from the racked bottles. These wines will have had their labels removed and can go for anywhere from 2-3 euros. I have never had a bad one. Then, of course, my dad always said, "the best wine you will ever taste will be outstanding...the worse will be excellent!" Em, or was dad speaking about... (add your own descriptor) .
Buen "making friends as you go" Camino,

Arn

 

[cher99840]

My personality went with me; therefore my sociability was pretty much the same as it is at home.

 

[scruffy1]

Or even a glass of hot tea will do it! Years ago in winter a young Spanish fellow, Carlos, and I were the only pilgrims on the cold albergue floor at Granon. Outside it was sleeting. We chatted for many hours in English, French and my then very limited Spanish. He was curious about 'finding himself" and wanted to know how I had 'found my way'. Morning came and after tea and toast we wished each other 'Buen camino' and continued our solitary journeys. Days passed and eventually I arrived at Castrojeriz in snow and sleet. Imagine my delighted surprise when I saw Carlos waving to me from the San Esteban albergue. He said "Hola Margaret what about another tea?" Served boiling hot in an old jam jar it was more than delicious...Simple comfort of basic shelter, serendipity of chance encounter, and sincere generous sharing can be so memorable.

Quite so in your part of the world. Here in this part of the Middle East tea is drunk when one is ill, considered almost a medicine especially if a bit of sage (salvia) is added against tummy rumbles, mint as a soothing calming addition, ginger to warm one's innards, or just plain tea with lemon for the vitamin C. I never touch the stuff otherwise, un-necessarily imbibed tea brings on the evil eye! so why tempt fate.

 

[clearskiescamino]

My goal is to find someone that can speak English and Spanish and follow them *nod*

Having a good degree of Spanish has it's perks alright

 

[fraluchi]

My intent is to go on my first Camino in the fall, and I'm curious what the social atmosphere I can expect will be.

Don't expect anything. Just let it happen.

 

[madame_shepard]

I think that if you want to find friends it will happen easily and naturally. You will "leap frog" the same pilgrims over and over, see them stopping for coffee, a snack, or a rest, and share sleeping quarters. Although I am not an easy socializer at home, the friends I made were the very best part of my Camino and my husband and I have enjoyed traveling across the country on two different occasions to visit Camino friends. Make sure to exchange e-mails with people that you get to know so that you can keep in touch!

 

[Anemone del Camino]

Don't expect anything. Just let it happen.

Absolutely. This was never a concern of mine. Just walk and see what happens. If you want friends, reach out. If you don't: run! ;0)

 

[david g]

Like someone else mentioned, the first few days tend to be when everyone seems more open, due to being so excited. You'll most likely find yourself "grouping up" early on, as you share a bottle at night and recount your experiences of the day.

 

[HallOfFreedom]

Hey There

You may or may not know...but just out of Estella there is a winery that offers free wine (and water) from a tap. Until it runs out. I saw pilgrams filling up there bottles there and then adpoting a gentle sway on the way to Los Arcos.

I dont drink...mainly because I dont like the taste of alcohol. But I have to admit I did enjoy the red's that came with my Pilgrams meals on occasion.
I think the company helped as well.
☺

Thanks for the heads up

 

[Icacos]

I have yet to find a variety of wine here in the States that I like, but I am looking forward to trying some there

If I recall correctly there is a great deal of difference between the wine available in North America from that which is available in Spain, as discussed by our fellow Forum members in the following link (if you are interested) ://www.caminodesantiago.me/community/threads/wine.30071/#post-255702. Had I known then what I know now, I might have imbibed a bit when I was there. I'm glad to hear that you are planning to give the Spanish wine a try.

 

[HallOfFreedom]

That's quite a long discussion lol. The posts I read were very interesting, though. I am certainly looking forward to trying the local beverages

 

[hunsta]

All wine tastes like sour grapes to me. Ill stick to water or cervesa. Its a safer bet. However If I find some Canadian Club........................????????????????????

 

[TomUK]

Sangria all the way for me

...can't forget my 5-a-day!

 

[Walter1407]

Hey There
You may or may not know...but just out of Estella there is a winery that offers free wine (and water) from a tap. Until it runs out. I saw pilgrams filling up there bottles there and then adpoting a gentle sway on the way to Los Arcos.
I dont drink...mainly because I dont like the taste of alcohol. But I have to admit I did enjoy the red's that came with my Pilgrams meals on occasion.
I think the company helped as well.
☺

You mean the Bodegas Irache. It is attached to the Benedictine Monastery of Irache. The wine (and water) fountain was put on the Camino in 1991, for thirsty pilgrims. There is also a quaint little wine museum.
http://www.irache.com/

And there is a webcam. I have seen it work occasionally a few years ago. Right now it seems dead.
http://www.irache.com/webcam/

Incidentally, you are not supposed to take any wine with you, but only drink while you are there: “A beber sin abusar te invitamos con agrado. Para poderlo llevar el vino ha de ser comprado”. (“We are pleased to invite you to drink in moderation. If you wish to take the wine with you, you will have to buy it.”) - Small bottles of red wine are for sale.

https://maureenmccarron.files.wordpress.com/2013/09/image15.jpg

 

[Robo]

Spring for a bottle at a grocery chain 5-6 Euro will be more than good enough to sample at dinner time.

So are restaurants along the Camino BYO? (Bring Your Own)

i.e. They don't mind you bringing your own bottle of wine?

 

[Walter1407]

I love it how this thread changed from socialising with people to socialising with wine...

 

[Johan]

I love it how this thread changed from socialising with people to socialising with wine...

Maybe the wine makes one social? He he he

 

[Robo]

I love it how this thread changed from socialising with people to socialising with wine...

Question of getting the priorities right Young Man

And really.....

Aren't the two things........the same

 

[bystander]

I love it how this thread changed from socialising with people to socialising with wine...

......in vino veritas.......!

 

[naplesdon]

You can BYO but why worry when it is freely flowing when you are are served your meal.

 

[Johan]

My intent is to go on my first Camino in the fall, and I'm curious what the social atmosphere I can expect will be. I'll be traveling solo for a few reasons, but am not in anyway opposed to making friends along the way. Do people tend to group up (except for those who want solitude, obviously), or is it more likely that you just run in to some of the same folks in this town or that one?

I started my Camino in 2013 on my own, but along the away and in the afternoons/evenings I met the most wonderful people from all over the world. And yes I think the wine makes it more social

 

[Robo]

You can BYO but why worry when it is freely flowing when you are are served your meal.

Just curious...Only that someone mentioned the House Wine is often 'gut rot' or words to that effect

I am more than happy to 'splurge' on a decent bottle in a store if that is allowed. Happy to skimp on food quality, but not the wine!

 

[Anemone del Camino]

Just curious...Only that someone mentioned the House Wine is often 'gut rot' or words to that effect

I am more than happy to 'splurge' on a decent bottle in a store if that is allowed. Happy to skimp on food quality, but not the wine!

What they serve you is just fine, and the alternative is the grocery store which won't be much better in a all towns and villages. As for sangria, have not seen it once in 4 caminos (CF and Norte).

 

[TomUK]

As for sangria, have not seen it once in 4 caminos (CF and Norte).

Oh dear. Will have to make my own in the Albergues!

 

[Walter1407]

Just curious...Only that someone mentioned the House Wine is often 'gut rot' or words to that effect
I am more than happy to 'splurge' on a decent bottle in a store if that is allowed. Happy to skimp on food quality, but not the wine!

Pilgrim menus usually include a simple table wine, and I am fine with that. I usually had just a small bite in the evening, but sometimes I joined others for a good meal out. Most restaurants have rather basic wine lists, but some have an additional selection of really good and often old wines. You'll have to ask. I had some very, very good wines during my Caminos.

 

[Johan]

Just curious...Only that someone mentioned the House Wine is often 'gut rot' or words to that effect

I am more than happy to 'splurge' on a decent bottle in a store if that is allowed. Happy to skimp on food quality, but not the wine!

Robo, the red house wine seems to be ok, but the white ones, some of it looks like dishwatera and the one person said it tastes lik it too...

 

[Al the optimist]

It is not an accident that most references on the forum are re Vino Tinto. Often white is not offered at meals and has been said is often poor quality when it is included. There are good whites that you can buy glasses or bottles of in bars/restaurants but try not to expect too much when in small villages.

 

[Deleted member 3000]

the red house wine seems to be ok, but the white ones, some of it looks like dishwatera and the one person said it tastes lik it too

I found an equal proportion of good to bad for both colors. If you move up a step from the house white to an albarino, I do not think you will be disappointed in Spanish whites (rated 90 by "experts" at $15 in the USA).

 

[Dutch]

What they serve you is just fine, and the alternative is the grocery store which won't be much better in a all towns and villages. As for sangria, have not seen it once in 4 caminos (CF and Norte).

I've seen so much sangria on the camino, you could probably fill a swimmingpool with it. It is widely available, all you have to do is......order it.

BYO in Spain? In dont think this is normal. I have never seen it. Maybe when you get the pilgrim menu, they dont care if you drink the already paid for included wine or not, but if you just order a meal and pull out your own bottle....no normal restaurant would be ok with that.

 

[TomUK]

BYO in Spain? In dont think this is normal. I have never seen it. Maybe when you get the pilgrim menu, they dont care if you drink the already paid for included wine or not, but if you just order a meal and pull out your own bottle....no normal restaurant would be ok with that.

I've spent a lot of time all over Spain and the islands and it's extremely common in the places I've visited.
Some restaurants do charge a Corkage fee for BYO, however.

 

[naplesdon]

I've seen so much sangria on the camino, you could probably fill a swimmingpool with it. It is widely available, all you have to do is......order it.

BYO in Spain? In dont think this is normal. I have never seen it. Maybe when you get the pilgrim menu, they dont care if you drink the already paid for included wine or not, but if you just order a meal and pull out your own bottle....no normal restaurant would be ok with that.

Totally agree, there always seems to be a punch bowl full of sangria on the bar with a complement of freshly cut fruit.
The normal deal with the house wine that comes with your meal; it is usually a local appellation so you get to taste the local swill. I am never shy enough not to order a second bottle or carafe and the owner rarely refuses. The exception to the rule is when you get to Santiago, they are very stingy with their wine and usually the meal only includes one glass, not a full bottle.

 

[Scott Sweeney]

Why would your Camino be any different than your tomorrow at home be? I think its safe to say if you avoid relationships with strangers at home, you will avoid them on the Camino. If you are out going, open to new friendships and new people and cultures then you will be fine. Some things shouldn't be over analyzed.

If people have issues with new people, or their habits, maybe the Camino isn't for those people.

 

[Anemone del Camino]

I've seen so much sangria on the camino, you could probably fill a swimmingpool with it. It is widely available, all you have to do is......order it.

Guess I have never seen anyone order it either.

 

[Al the optimist]

If you are out going, open to new friendships and new people and cultures then you will be fine.

Glad that extended to me when we met mate.

 

[Icacos]

Guess I have never seen anyone order it either.

A Spanish woman we met introduced my companions to tinto de verano, red wine with fruit juices added. She explained it by saying that during the summer many Spaniards prefer a drink that is a little more refreshing and the fruit juices made it so. Would that be along the same lines as sangria?

 

[TomUK]

A Spanish woman we met introduced my companions to tinto de verano, red wine with fruit juices added. She explained it by saying that during the summer many Spaniards prefer a drink that is a little more refreshing and the fruit juices made it so. Would that be along the same lines as sangria?

Pretty much. Sangria is Generally red wine, fresh fruit and occasionally a small amount of Brandy.
I sometimes add a bit of orange juice if I'm feeling particularly daring..

 

[Icacos]

Pretty much. Sangria is Generally red wine, fresh fruit and occasionally a small amount of Brandy.
I sometimes add a bit of orange juice if I'm feeling particularly daring..

Orange juice ..............daring? Now, that makes me smile

And rest assured, I mean that in a good way!

 

[Scott Sweeney]

Glad that extended to me when we met mate.

And it was indeed a pleasure to have met you All, and will look forward to passing each others way again in the future!

 

[William Marques]

Tinto de verano is generally red wine with La Casera. I wondered whether it was a regional mixture as it is drunk like water in Andalucia in the summer but when I asked for it on the Camino they did not know what I was talking about, perhaps it was my accent.

La Casera with beer is the equivalent of shandy, called Clara but again perhaps that is also regional.

 

[HallOfFreedom]

This has definitely become an alcohol thread lol

 

[Al the optimist]

I'm getting confused. I need a drink. Cheap red plonk with agua con gas?
However getting back on topic - Aloneness or company are easily achieved and it is up to the individual to decide on what they want at any given point. Even where there are lots of people a quite spot can be found. It is easy to be quietly by oneself and people soon spot and respect your need for privacy. It is equally possible to join others just by asking "May I join you?" The Camino provides and sometimes you just have to decide on what you want it too. Nothing to stress or fret about.

 

[Icacos]

This has definitely become an alcohol thread lol

The topic of this thread is 'Socializing with other pilgrims on the Camino.' I believe many persons feel that socializing and imbibing alcohol beverages are mutually inexclusive. Personally, I don't feel it is necessarily so but, since I accept that even a little alcohol does 'grease the wheels' and can make socializing easier, I am willing to respect this opinion ... and I am happy to see people drinking, in moderation, and having a good time. I just don't like the taste of beer and wine, the two most popular alcoholic beverages, I believe, on the Camino ... and red wine in particular has been known to give me the most diabolical headaches, something I was not willing to chance on the Camino.

 

[Scott Sweeney]

I've seen so much sangria on the camino, you could probably fill a swimmingpool with it. It is widely available, all you have to do is......order it..

If you have ever been to Montserrat, at the train stop there is this path that leads back to this small sangria stand...oh my.

 

[Saramago]

There is a product called Pure Wine that is preservative free and neutralizes the sulphites in wine that causes allergy headaches. While not being a drinker a gentleman had these and I did try the wine without allergy effects on 2 days using his drops. Just an FYI. You put 3 drops into the glass. In terms of socializing, I found that most are intuitive regarding whether or not you want to socialize at any particular time. I ran into two people on separate occasions that did not possess this sensitivity but otherwise I found most pilgrims both sensitive (intuitive) and inviting.

 

[david g]

I shouldn't have come on this thread this morning. All the talk of wine has made me thirsty, but it's only 10:40 am and I have work to do. Guess I'll check back later in the afternoon, when I can sit and have a glass, without feeling guilty.

 

[Robo]

I believe, on the Camino ... and red wine in particular has been known to give me the most diabolical headaches, something I was not willing to chance on the Camino.

Ahhhh. Cheap Red plonk does that. Not the good stuff

 

[Tincatinker]

There is a product called Pure Wine that is preservative free and neutralizes the sulphites in wine that causes allergy headaches. .

Is there a chemist in the house? While adding Hydrogen Peroxide to wine may well precipitate any free Sulphur Dioxide that has been added as an anti-oxidant I'm pretty certain it won't improve the wine. Following precipitation you should throw away the bottom inch or so of wine in your glass. Sulphur Dioxide is added in ludicrously high concentrations to most large scale production wines as a stabiliser and anti-oxidant. Probably quite unnecessarily so but "the consumer wants a guaranteed quality product". While many, though not all dedicated wine makers do use it as well their dosage is probably a 0.2ppm (parts per million) rather than the standard commercial 2.oppm.

To avoid an overdose of SO2? Drink good wine from a good winemaker.

 

[Icacos]

Ahhhh. Cheap Red plonk does that. Not the good stuff

And from what I gather on the 'Wine' thread mentioned above, post-Camino, there is no 'cheap Red plonk' in Spain. At least, reputedly, they don't put those problem additives into the wine that are found in wines available in North America. I will know for next time.

 

[WldWil]

I personally prefer the wine I make to most commercial brands and having 200+ bottles in the cellar means I rarely purchase them. When I do get a commercial bottle, I have been leaning towards the Spanish wines because of my upcoming Camino. They are less heady and do have a unique taste. I prefer the Tempranillo ones. I usually order by the bottle since I want one that has not been sitting around open. I would hope there may be a few other pilgrims around to enjoy it with and not have to carry any the next day. <--Most likely not an issue.

In regard to what this thread started out as being sociable on the Camino, I am a sociable person and I love to tell stories (a lot). However, I wish to walk at my pace and not be committed to predestined stops as I want to walk until it feels like the right time to stop and not be locked in to a schedule as much as possible.

But who knows, even that could change.

 

[alexwalker]

3 older than me Spanish guys (or rather, gentlemen) that I walked with a few days last year told me to order red wine from the Rioja district and forget the rest, but I have found most wines in Spain to be to my liking. But then again, I enjoy most beverages that contain more alcohol than sour milk...

Edit: BTW: In the beginning of the 2nd week of your Camino, you will walk through the Rioja district: Plenty of opportunities...

 

[tpmchugh]

My intent is to go on my first Camino in the fall, and I'm curious what the social atmosphere I can expect will be. I'll be traveling solo for a few reasons, but am not in anyway opposed to making friends along the way. Do people tend to group up (except for those who want solitude, obviously), or is it more likely that you just run in to some of the same folks in this town or that one?

You will get a bit of everything. You will make friends, you will join groups and just as quickly leave them. You will meet people you will really like and then watch as they walk out of your life forever. You may walk on your own but will never be alone. My camino buddy and I had a good routine. Some days we would walk together and on other days we agreed in advance where we would meet each night. Seldom was I more than 30mins behind him, I am slow, he was always out front

 

[WldWil]

Tincatinker – We must have been posting at the same time almost. You ought to see my little chemistry set. Balancing acids, tannins and sugars is why we have consistency in modern day wines where in the old days you took what the year gave you.

My dosage is at 10% or less. My mother who has sulfer and shellfish allergies has no problem with my wine. Half a commercial glass turns her face red and cause a reaction.

The exact amount of SO2 in the wine you drink is not always known, by using peroxide you risk oxidizing too much the wine leading to the formation of acetaldehyde from the reaction with ethanol. PLUS, there is a HUGE difference between food and medical grade Hydrogen Peroxide.

Basically, it is an oxidizing agent. It is one of the reasons you let your wine breathe upon opening or for using a decanter.

Now… I really need to get back to work after sneaking n to check the forum.

 

[Walter1407]

Are you trying to scare us off drinking wine with all these scary sounding substances it contains?
Maybe I should change over to high quality sake. No matter how much I drink of that stuff, I never get a headache. But how do I get sake on the Camino??

Mind you, the word "wine" is mentioned several dozen times in the New Testament. So maybe I should stick to Rioja, Navarra, Ribera del Duero, Bierzo...

 

[SYates]

Can somebody please pour me a Pacharan please? Just to go with the flow ... Muchas Gracias! SY

 

[Icacos]

There is a product called Pure Wine that is preservative free and neutralizes the sulphites in wine that causes allergy headaches. While not being a drinker a gentleman had these and I did try the wine without allergy effects on 2 days using his drops. Just an FYI. You put 3 drops into the glass. In terms of socializing, I found that most are intuitive regarding whether or not you want to socialize at any particular time. I ran into two people on separate occasions that did not possess this sensitivity but otherwise I found most pilgrims both sensitive (intuitive) and inviting.

When you mention in your post "In terms of socializing ...........", after speaking of neutralizing the allergy effects of alcohol, do you mean this as socializing in addition to drinking or not drinking alcoholic beverages. Because there was one occasion on my Camino when socializing and my inability to tolerate / reluctance to try alcohol caused me some discomfort.

It was on the outskirts of Sarria and my companions and I were checked into a private family run albergue. It was a lovely place, the hospitalero was very welcoming and all the pilgrim guests were invited to share the communal dinner. The usual wine was being drunk by many, and we were all having a good time trying to communicate with each other - there was no common tongue among us - and using a lot of sign language. Towards the end of the meal the hospitalero, I guess in an effort to be inclusive and to promote camaraderie, began pouring individual shot glasses of his home-brew liqueur, and placing a glass in front of each of us. When he came to put a glass in front of me, I demurred, but he placed it there anyway. As each pilgrim downed his shot of this, quite obviously, most vile-tasting concoction, the faces each person made caused great hilarity.

While this was going on I was trying to decide what, come my turn, was I going to do? Taking a swig of that stuff raised the great possibility that I would end up with a headache, my having to take my migraine meds, and being laid up in bed until at least mid-afternoon the next day - difficult to do in an albergue when they kick you out first thing in the morning. Not only that, I was walking with two cousins I had barely laid eyes on in forty years - in fact our Camino together was a sort of family reunion - and they had limited days to get to Santiago in order to make their return flights, and I did not want to separate from them. I could not risk losing a day by drinking that liqueur. Aside from that, the last thing I wanted on my Camino was a migraine headache. When it was my turn to down the shot I declined, but it pained me to do so.

I still worry that I put the hospitalero in an awkward position and / or if I broke some sacred rule about accepting hospitality. But I really feel I had no choice. I wonder what others, in my position, would have done.

And those who feel inclined, can make fun of this too! I can handle it.

 

[Dutch]

I dont drink alcohol and i have noooo problem turning it down why should you? Just because somebody offered it? Nahh

 

[Pelegrin]

Tinto de verano is generally red wine with La Casera. I wondered whether it was a regional mixture as it is drunk like water in Andalucia in the summer but when I asked for it on the Camino they did not know what I was talking about, perhaps it was my accent.

La Casera with beer is the equivalent of shandy, called Clara but again perhaps that is also regional.

La Casera is a brand The name of the drink in Spanish is Gaseosa.
I think that Tinto the Verano is now pretty known everywhere in Spain.

 

[hunsta]

Ooh my. Oh my. Your all sounding a lot like tourists and less like peligrenos here. TSK TSK TSK. Whats-his-face who's thread closed yesterday would be dismayed. He'll have to add leaving the corkscrew behind to his list if things one shouldn't take to be a true pil-grimm

 

[Saramago]

When you mention in your post "In terms of socializing ...........", after speaking of neutralizing the allergy effects of alcohol, do you mean this as socializing in addition to drinking or not drinking alcoholic beverages. Because there was one occasion on my Camino when socializing and my inability to tolerate / reluctance to try alcohol caused me some discomfort.

It was on the outskirts of Sarria and my companions and I were checked into a private family run albergue. It was a lovely place, the hospitalero was very welcoming and all the pilgrim guests were invited to share the communal dinner. The usual wine was being drunk by many, and we were all having a good time trying to communicate with each other - there was no common tongue among us - and using a lot of sign language. Towards the end of the meal the hospitalero, I guess in an effort to be inclusive and to promote camaraderie, began pouring individual shot glasses of his home-brew liqueur, and placing a glass in front of each of us. When he came to put a glass in front of me, I demurred, but he placed it there anyway. As each pilgrim downed his shot of this, quite obviously, most vile-tasting concoction, the faces each person made caused great hilarity.

While this was going on I was trying to decide what, come my turn, was I going to do? Taking a swig of that stuff raised the great possibility that I would end up with a headache, my having to take my migraine meds, and being laid up in bed until at least mid-afternoon the next day - difficult to do in an albergue when they kick you out first thing in the morning. Not only that, I was walking with two cousins I had barely laid eyes on in forty years - in fact our Camino together was a sort of family reunion - and they had limited days to get to Santiago in order to make their return flights, and I did not want to separate from them. I could not risk losing a day by drinking that liqueur. Aside from that, the last thing I wanted on my Camino was a migraine headache. When it was my turn to down the shot I declined, but it pained me to do so.

I still worry that I put the hospitalero in an awkward position and / or if I broke some sacred rule about accepting hospitality. But I really feel I had no choice. I wonder what others, in my position, would have done.

And those who feel inclined, can make fun of this too! I can handle it.

Ah, no. No pressure at all. Sorry to seem to run the two together. The situation was we were at the Padres, a group of us from all over different countries. We were all cold and wet and there was a huge downpour. A group of us decided to make dinner. The agreement was the ladies would cook while the men braved the weather for food and wine. Three quarters of our large table were very experienced pilgrims having walked many years. And they knew their wine for sure! I declined a glass of the excellent wine due to allergies. That's when the Aussie husband, part of a couple, said he did, too and pulled out his Pure Wine or pure wine drops (an Australian product). I took a couple sips and did not flush or get the rhinitis, etc so had my glass. It was very tasty. We can get food quality peroxide here (USA) to wash fruits and veggies. This product is apparently very diluted food grade. Haven't seen it since and not promoting it. I've never had a cheap bottle of wine in my life. Just mentioning it. Nothing to do with sociability. It was a great dinner we made together and the company was terrific - not enhanced by any wine product as by then we were fast friends. I then ran into them again. I would stop short of how my mother in law washes her fruits and veggies in pure bleach since her stage 4 cancer at 58 - but she is now 93 and still rides a bike! Apparently this gentleman carries it on all his Caminos and uses it at home so he can enjoy his wine. Which would be the best. Lovely folks who had taken the trouble to purchase great wine and offered me a way to enjoy it. That's all. ;-)

 

[WldWil]

Icacos- Never fear the turning down of something you do not want, especially alcohol.

As much as love my wine I make, I would never want someone to feel ill at ease in trying some. It would go against the very nature of producing it. Plus, I have friends that will never touch a drop of alcohol again for good reasons and that should be totally supported.

 

[hunsta]

As much as love my wine I make, I would never want someone to fill at ease in trying. Plus, I have friends that will never touch a drop again for good reasons

Is your wine that bad?

 

[Icacos]

...............shouldn't take to be a true pil-grimm

Is there any particular significance here to "pil-grimm" that is lost on me? I've had a quick look on the web, but can't make a connection.

 

[hunsta]

Is there any particular significance here to "pil-grimm" that is lost on me? I've had a quick look on the web, but can't make a connection.

d
Oh dear. I'm sure someone will make a fortune one day with a book that explains that there is no real meaning in Aussie humour. Basicly if it sounds funny to the user, then its got to be funny.LOL Although sarcasm plays a huge roll. Mmmmmmmm I think I see a book signing in my future.
Think the accent was on the "Grimm"

 

[WldWil]

Is your wine that bad?

autocorrect got me once again. Trying things out of my pad.

 

[SYates]

... Taking a swig of that stuff raised the great possibility that I would end up with a headache, my having to take my migraine meds, and being laid up in bed until at least mid-afternoon the next day - difficult to do in an albergue when they kick you out first thing in the morning. ... When it was my turn to down the shot I declined, but it pained me to do so. I still worry that I put the hospitalero in an awkward position and / or if I broke some sacred rule about accepting hospitality. But I really feel I had no choice. I wonder what others, in my position, would have done. ...

Next time just say with a smile:

Por desgracia, soy alérgica/o al alcohol, me da una migraña cuando lo bebo.
Unfortunately I am allergic to alcohol, I get a migraine when I drink it.

Buen Camino sin migraña, SY

 

[Dutch]

You shouldn't have to make excuses for not wanting to drink alcohol. If you don't want it, don't drink it. Just say thanks but no thanks, i'm good. Period.

Peer pressure is a weird thing.

 

[Al the optimist]

Don't you just hate it when you ask for Caz Limon or Fanta Limon and they offer you Aquarius! Don't like it, it is nothing like the real deal.

 

[Johan]

Don't you just hate it when you ask for Caz Limon or Fanta Limon and they offer you Aquarius! Don't like it, it is nothing like the real deal.

It is safer to ask for Coke.

 

[Dutch]

It is safer to ask for Coke.

I do....and every so often they say, sorry, we only have Pepsi

 

[WldWil]

Some of us feel the way about pop (some call it soda) as other feel about wine.

 

[Icacos]

Next time just say with a smile:

Por desgracia, soy alérgica/o al alcohol, me da una migraña cuando lo bebo.
Unfortunately I am allergic to alcohol, I get a migraine when I drink it.

Buen Camino sin migraña, SY

I tried to, SY. With my very limited Spanish I pointed to my head and said, "Lo siento, mal de cabeza." The hospitalero, who spoke a bit of English, shot right back with, "It's anti-inflammatory!"

Sometimes you just can't win for losing!

 

[SYates]

Oh dear, sorry, but I had to laugh imagining this scene! Poor you! SY

 

[Robo]

When it was my turn to down the shot I declined, but it pained me to do so.

I still worry that I put the hospitalero in an awkward position and / or if I broke some sacred rule about accepting hospitality. But I really feel I had no choice. I wonder what others, in my position, would have done.
And those who feel inclined, can make fun of this too! I can handle it.

Anyone who 'pressures' others to drink alcohol in my view is not only being pushy but downright ignorant and rude. I'm not suggesting this was the case here....

But the point being, I don't think anyone would be insulted or offended just because a person refused an offer of alcohol. Camino or anywhere! Some people like to drink, others don't.

Whilst I love to drink wine I know my limits (most of the time) and find those who don't know their limits frankly quite irritating. There is nothing attractive or appealing about someone who is drunk

Afternote: I wasn't going to pack a corkscrew, but its starting to sound like an essential piece of equipment! Pity the rest of the world has not yet adopted the use of 'Screw Caps'. Or have you? Makes things much easier...

 

[SYates]

@Robo
It might have been a case of cultural difference, not of being pushy. In Spain you have to decline everything, food, second helpings, drinks, a few times before your host accepts it. Giving up to offer more after one "no" would be incredible inhospitable in the Spanish mind. Some as in many other countries, I might add. Buen Camino! SY

 

[Robo]

@Robo
It might have been a case of cultural difference, not of being pushy. In Spain you have to decline everything, food, second helpings, drinks, a few times before your host accepts it. Giving up to offer more after one "no" would be incredible inhospitable in the Spanish mind. Some as in many other countries, I might add. Buen Camino! SY

Thank for the cultural viewpoint SY, much appreciated I'll make sure to remember that!

 

[jefferyonthecamino]

A note on sangría.

Unless you are in a tourist hotspot in Madrid, Barcelona, etc. bars do not offer sangría. Furthermore, sangría is usually only drunk by Spaniards at parties (and for some unknown reason at Chinese restaurants) and mixed at home (similar to punch); it would be vey odd for us to go to a bar and ask for a sangría. What is common across Spain is 'tinto de verano', which is simply cheap wine and gaseosa. Note that sangría, when made at home, (and at bars if available), is always made with the cheapest wine available as you are mixing it with either sugar or fizzy drinks.

BTW. It's perfectly find to decline alcohol in Spain when offered. Just like declining meat if a vegetarian. What is socially unacceptable is to not pay for the next round if you have been invited to the first one.

 

[William Marques]

Afternote: I wasn't going to pack a corkscrew, but its starting to sound like an essential piece of equipment! Pity the rest of the world has not yet adopted the use of 'Screw Caps'. Or have you? Makes things much easier...

Wine bottles with screw caps are starting to catch on outside Aus but your corkscrew will probably be required.

 

[naplesdon]

Are you trying to scare us off drinking wine with all these scary sounding substances it contains?
Maybe I should change over to high quality sake. No matter how much I drink of that stuff, I never get a headache. But how do I get sake on the Camino??

Mind you, the word "wine" is mentioned several dozen times in the New Testament. So maybe I should stick to Rioja, Navarra, Ribera del Duero, Bierzo...

Totally agree to trying the local wines of the region you are visiting, there are some wonderfully rich and sublime differences between the wines in Spain.
In Biarritz we are constantly debating the quality of the Rioja reds v the Bordeaux red and try out the roses, some are perfect on a hot day.
Pastis, the breakfast of champions from Provence, doesn't have any scary sounding substances in it!

 

[Anemone del Camino]

A note on sangría.

Unless you are in a tourist hotspot in Madrid, Barcelona, etc. bars do not offer sangría. Furthermore, sangría is usually only drunk by Spaniards at parties (and for some unknown reason at Chinese restaurants) and mixed at home (similar to punch); it would be vey odd for us to go to a bar and ask for a sangría. What is common across Spain is 'tinto de verano', which is simply cheap wine and gaseosa. Note that sangría, when made at home, (and at bars if available), is always made with the cheapest wine available as you are mixing it with either sugar or fizzy drinks.

BTW. It's perfectly find to decline alcohol in Spain when offered. Just like declining meat if a vegetarian. What is socially unacceptable is to not pay for the next round if you have been invited to the first one.

Thank you Jeffrey for that! As I said, had never seen it, nor would it have occured to me to order. I make a lovely sangria heure at home on hot summer afternoons while préparant the bbq, but when in Rome, do like the Romans, and not their caricature.

 

[Anemone del Camino]

Wine bottles with screw caps are starting to catch on outside Aus but your corkscrew will probably be required.

Unless you stick to Cava, then you don't need one.

 

[Anemone del Camino]

If you want to ordrer like the Romans, ask for vermud, and best go with bermuda soldera if available.

 

[Anemone del Camino]

Totally agree to trying the local wines of the region you are visiting, there are some wonderfully rich and sublime differences between the wines in Spain.
In Biarritz we are constantly debating the quality of the Rioja reds v the Bordeaux red and try out the roses, some are perfect on a hot day.
Pastis, the breakfast of champions from Provence, doesn't have any scary sounding substances in it!

Don't Forget Txacoli on El Norte!