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Hi @truenorthpilgrim, so sorry that you're struggling at the moment. As I haven't walked that route, I've little to offer in the way of practical suggestions, but hopefully others will weigh in soon. A bad day on the Camino/chemin can feel really really bad, especially when you're tired.
From what you've said, it sounds as though you need to take a break to rest and take stock of how you're feeling. You've walked from Le Puy to Conques - well done on that! If you've plenty of time and your goal is to walk to Santiago, there are other ways to do that. Pausing to rest and think might help to ease the monotony and the feeling of being lost. You might feel better about what you're doing, or you might have a 'eureka moment' about a change of plan. I've made spur of the moment decisions on two occasions to change my route and it felt wonderfully liberating! Equally, you might find that a rest day allows you to re-energise and connect with different people.
There are no rules about these things, other than the self-imposed ones. Be kind to yourself.
That you have stuck it out and walked all the way from Le Puy to where you are now shows that your post isn't an idle 'moan' but a deep felt series of emotions and conflicts that you have been trying to work on.
All I can suggest is that you 'go home' and by 'go home' I mean find a town with a train station and leap to St Jean and walk the Frances again - unless you would then transfer your current guilt feelings to a 'I didn't finish' guilt feeling?
Surrender. This is what's happening. Just feel what you feel as directly as you can without resisting or trying to fix it. Nothing is wrong, and you're not doing anything wrong. But what you are feeling needs to be dealt with inside first - because no matter where you go the mind and heart go with you. Managing the outer conditions to alleviate the discomfort only puts off until later the reckoning with loneliness, boredom, disconnection, struggle...whatever else is coming up. These are actually doorways in to the deepest places in the heart.I’m not sure what the antidote is,
There are no rules about these things, other than the self-imposed ones. Be kind to yourself.
Hi "I-don't-know-what-your-name-is-but-would-have-loved-to-address-you-using-it",I’m not sure what the antidote is, but I thought I’d post my feelings on this forum to perhaps get some (non-judgemental) feedback.
Ah yes, home. I find myself yearning for SJPdP right now. You are correct in that this isn’t an idle moan, but of something much deeper. Do I “stick it out” and hope everything turns around? Do I go “home?” The camaraderie is quite different on the LP, but I like the fact that it’s much quieter and spacious than the CF.
Sigh.
My first pilgrimage walks were on the Le Puy route, starting in 2010. The first year I spoke no French at all, and the second year, only a few basic phrases. So I immediately learned some of the basic Camino lessons: I am not in control; I must rely on the kindness of strangers; I will not get what I want but I will get what I need, and I will be grateful for that; If I wanted comfort and familiarity, I would stay home.am I on the struggle bus.
Ah yes, home. I find myself yearning for SJPdP right now. You are correct in that this isn’t an idle moan, but of something much deeper. Do I “stick it out” and hope everything turns around? Do I go “home?” The camaraderie is quite different on the LP, but I like the fact that it’s much quieter and spacious than the CF.
Sigh.
Try learning a little bit of Francais and join in, even just listening and smiling can help lift your spirits up. Don't give up though, if the crowd is not to your liking just stop somewhere a couple of days so they move well ahead of you.Hi all,
I’m waking from Le Puy to Santiago and boy, am I on the struggle bus. I walked the Camino Frances 3 years ago, so I’m well aware of what to expect as far as life on The Way.
But the in the last week I’m just very resistant to walking. I speak only “survival French” (my Spanish is much better) and it’s been lonely at dinner with everyone chatting in French. I also don’t feel a tremendous urge to connect to people. One thing I do NOT like doing is booking ahead for rooms. I love walking into a town and staying where the mood strikes. Lots of places close on a Sunday and Monday, I have to plan to bring my lunch and everyone is consumed with “where are you going next?”. I don’t have a timeline to adhere to, I don’t care how many km you’ve walked (a topic that bores me to tears) and I feel lost.
Then I think “I shouldn’t feel this way! I’m back on the Camino, in France, with the best fromage! And adorable villages!! Why am I feeling this way?”
I’m in Livinghac du Haut today, having walked out of Conques yesterday and (I think) pushing myself too far. I’m emotionally spent, and I find my self wanting to stop and “shake off” certain groups of people. I get sick of seeing the same folks over a 5 day period.
I’m not sure what the antidote is, but I thought I’d post my feelings on this forum to perhaps get some (non-judgemental) feedback.
My name is Erin and the shamrock was apropos. Thank youHi "I-don't-know-what-your-name-is-but-would-have-loved-to-address-you-using-it",
I don't if I can be of any help/comfort, being far away, with only this digital connection.
Thank you for sharing your feelings. Even the not so happy ones are worth sharing.
Sometimes life takes us to 'places' (circumstances) where we don't want to be/like to be. That goes for everyday life as well as being 'on the road'. Just remember one thing: whatever happens and wherever you are, there is always one, very important constant: YOU. I hope you're able to like yourself, love yourself.
If you succeed in doing so, you might feel very comfortable with your own company: being with someone you like and love and who is very worthwile, even if she feels lost and sad.
This won't help you with the language problem or having to put up with yet again the same bunch of people, but at least you're in good company with yourself. And who knows, maybe the way you feel might become less dependent of the circumstances you're in or the people you're with. At least I hope so.
I wish you all the best.
Thank you for this. Wonderful adviceConques to Livinac is an exhausting day. I too struggled with aspects of the Le Puy and by the time I hit Livinac, enough that I left the camino. That decision haunted me and I had to go back and finish.
I too don't book ahead. I changed my daily distance a couple of times to escape the groups of week-walkers. My French is good, but still not good enough to enjoy the dinner conversations. I found them tedious. Not understanding them might have been better.
You are of course free to make any decision, but revisit your reasons for this pilgrimage. Will you be happy with yourself if don't finish what you started? Can you plan another rest day and let the current group pass you by? (You'll make up the time later.)
There is a tremendous satisfaction in see the Pyrenese on the horizon and watching them approach.
***EDITed as my stupid phone posted the message before I was done.
I know survival French but at the end of the day I’m so tired I can’t even speak English!Try learning a little bit of Francais and join in, even just listening and smiling can help lift your spirits up. Don't give up though, if the crowd is not to your liking just stop somewhere a couple of days so they move well ahead of you.
Enjoy the silence and nature while you can, the Camino Francés will provide ample opportunity to socialise with many groups and individuals as much as you like. Or get a bus or train and jump a few stages to get ahead of your group.
Maybe you could offer to help out at an albergue fir a few days, do some floor scrubbing and mattress washing etc. and learn a little bit of the language at the same time. Lots of options for you. Breathe deep, relax, life is short but very wide.
Thank you-already using the MiamMiam guide and it’s quite good.Try to find or borrow a Miam Miam Dodo guide book, it IS in French BUT WITH SOME ENGLISH TRANSLATIONS, but so simplified that you WILL understand the basics. The most important part, however, is that the gîtes and other places to stay are marked with the languages spoken by the "management". English is represented by a British flag. At least then you will be able to communicate with someone who can help you. They will also know what awaits you further on -- ask for help, it does wonders to get communication started. Let the Chemin/Camno take over, don't try to force what is supposed to happen. It WILL be worth it! All the best to you, @truenorthpilgrim !!
Hi all,
I’m waking from Le Puy to Santiago and boy, am I on the struggle bus. I walked the Camino Frances 3 years ago, so I’m well aware of what to expect as far as life on The Way.
But the in the last week I’m just very resistant to walking. I speak only “survival French” (my Spanish is much better) and it’s been lonely at dinner with everyone chatting in French. I also don’t feel a tremendous urge to connect to people. One thing I do NOT like doing is booking ahead for rooms. I love walking into a town and staying where the mood strikes. Lots of places close on a Sunday and Monday, I have to plan to bring my lunch and everyone is consumed with “where are you going next?”. I don’t have a timeline to adhere to, I don’t care how many km you’ve walked (a topic that bores me to tears) and I feel lost.
Then I think “I shouldn’t feel this way! I’m back on the Camino, in France, with the best fromage! And adorable villages!! Why am I feeling this way?”
I’m in Livinghac du Haut today, having walked out of Conques yesterday and (I think) pushing myself too far. I’m emotionally spent, and I find my self wanting to stop and “shake off” certain groups of people. I get sick of seeing the same folks over a 5 day period.
I’m not sure what the antidote is, but I thought I’d post my feelings on this forum to perhaps get some (non-judgemental) feedback.
Hi all,
I’m waking from Le Puy to Santiago and boy, am I on the struggle bus. I walked the Camino Frances 3 years ago, so I’m well aware of what to expect as far as life on The Way.
But the in the last week I’m just very resistant to walking. I speak only “survival French” (my Spanish is much better) and it’s been lonely at dinner with everyone chatting in French. I also don’t feel a tremendous urge to connect to people. One thing I do NOT like doing is booking ahead for rooms. I love walking into a town and staying where the mood strikes. Lots of places close on a Sunday and Monday, I have to plan to bring my lunch and everyone is consumed with “where are you going next?”. I don’t have a timeline to adhere to, I don’t care how many km you’ve walked (a topic that bores me to tears) and I feel lost.
Then I think “I shouldn’t feel this way! I’m back on the Camino, in France, with the best fromage! And adorable villages!! Why am I feeling this way?”
I’m in Livinghac du Haut today, having walked out of Conques yesterday and (I think) pushing myself too far. I’m emotionally spent, and I find my self wanting to stop and “shake off” certain groups of people. I get sick of seeing the same folks over a 5 day period.
I’m not sure what the antidote is, but I thought I’d post my feelings on this forum to perhaps get some (non-judgemental) feedback.
Hi all,
I’m waking from Le Puy to Santiago and boy, am I on the struggle bus. I walked the Camino Frances 3 years ago, so I’m well aware of what to expect as far as life on The Way.
But the in the last week I’m just very resistant to walking. I speak only “survival French” (my Spanish is much better) and it’s been lonely at dinner with everyone chatting in French. I also don’t feel a tremendous urge to connect to people. One thing I do NOT like doing is booking ahead for rooms. I love walking into a town and staying where the mood strikes. Lots of places close on a Sunday and Monday, I have to plan to bring my lunch and everyone is consumed with “where are you going next?”. I don’t have a timeline to adhere to, I don’t care how many km you’ve walked (a topic that bores me to tears) and I feel lost.
Then I think “I shouldn’t feel this way! I’m back on the Camino, in France, with the best fromage! And adorable villages!! Why am I feeling this way?”
I’m in Livinghac du Haut today, having walked out of Conques yesterday and (I think) pushing myself too far. I’m emotionally spent, and I find my self wanting to stop and “shake off” certain groups of people. I get sick of seeing the same folks over a 5 day period.
I’m not sure what the antidote is, but I thought I’d post my feelings on this forum to perhaps get some (non-judgemental) feedback.
I had the exact experienced when I walked from Le Puy in 2013. It had become clear as someone quoted to me "The French walk in France, the world walks in Spain". At that time I moved from Conques to SJPP, no regrets, the difference was like night and day.
For interest...That's such an interesting little truism about who is walking where. I suppose I would be happy enough in France as a fe days there always returns my fluency.... but I think it is unaffordable for the time being so my next walk (in several weeks) will be the Portugues at a point when I am hopeful there will be few out there other than the Portuguese people. I love the CF and I absolutely love all of Spain that I have seen (most except the SW). But on CF 2 I was very ware that I was having a harder time seeing Spain because of the saturation of the camino bubble all along the corridor.
I actually do not hope to meet very many people when I walk. A person or two... maybe. But I would rather see the land and the people whose land I am visiting than I would those who are more like me than different. I don't want to meet people who want the Spanish or Galician or Basque or Catalan people to change to become a tourist location indistinguishable from home (for example, there was a guy recently who was planning to hand out chastising cards to bar owners who did not provide the kind of food he wanted; there is the current donnybrook about how the Spanish really should provide us with toilets all along the way... an increasing feeling that some would happily sell the whole CF to Marriot)....
And so hope for the OP that peace with being with the French in France will come... and that for all of us an acceptance that we have chosen to leave home will mean some discomfort, some *vacating* from our usual habits... some growth...
I respect the OP's honesty about the struggle.... value it even.
But I wonder if we all, more generally, would benefit if we became more inclined to accept that travel will be disruptive, sometimes lonely, and fundamentally challenging rather than comfortable.
For interest...
View attachment 64620
Hi all,
I’m waking from Le Puy to Santiago and boy, am I on the struggle bus. I walked the Camino Frances 3 years ago, so I’m well aware of what to expect as far as life on The Way.
But the in the last week I’m just very resistant to walking. I speak only “survival French” (my Spanish is much better) and it’s been lonely at dinner with everyone chatting in French. I also don’t feel a tremendous urge to connect to people. One thing I do NOT like doing is booking ahead for rooms. I love walking into a town and staying where the mood strikes. Lots of places close on a Sunday and Monday, I have to plan to bring my lunch and everyone is consumed with “where are you going next?”. I don’t have a timeline to adhere to, I don’t care how many km you’ve walked (a topic that bores me to tears) and I feel lost.
Then I think “I shouldn’t feel this way! I’m back on the Camino, in France, with the best fromage! And adorable villages!! Why am I feeling this way?”
I’m in Livinghac du Haut today, having walked out of Conques yesterday and (I think) pushing myself too far. I’m emotionally spent, and I find my self wanting to stop and “shake off” certain groups of people. I get sick of seeing the same folks over a 5 day period.
I’m not sure what the antidote is, but I thought I’d post my feelings on this forum to perhaps get some (non-judgemental) feedback.
I have to say that your experience of feeling isolated is why I'm don't think that I'd do any of the Caminos in France solo. I've had several communal dinners on the Frances with no one to talk to in English or (my very basic) Spanish, but at least I know that I'll probably find English speakers in the next day or so.
It’s not necessarily a criticism but perhaps your projection? This wasn’t about me as an American expecting people to speak English..
Hello Camino Friend,Hi all,
I’m waking from Le Puy to Santiago and boy, am I on the struggle bus. I walked the Camino Frances 3 years ago, so I’m well aware of what to expect as far as life on The Way.
But the in the last week I’m just very resistant to walking. I speak only “survival French” (my Spanish is much better) and it’s been lonely at dinner with everyone chatting in French. I also don’t feel a tremendous urge to connect to people. One thing I do NOT like doing is booking ahead for rooms. I love walking into a town and staying where the mood strikes. Lots of places close on a Sunday and Monday, I have to plan to bring my lunch and everyone is consumed with “where are you going next?”. I don’t have a timeline to adhere to, I don’t care how many km you’ve walked (a topic that bores me to tears) and I feel lost.
Then I think “I shouldn’t feel this way! I’m back on the Camino, in France, with the best fromage! And adorable villages!! Why am I feeling this way?”
I’m in Livinghac du Haut today, having walked out of Conques yesterday and (I think) pushing myself too far. I’m emotionally spent, and I find my self wanting to stop and “shake off” certain groups of people. I get sick of seeing the same folks over a 5 day period.
I’m not sure what the antidote is, but I thought I’d post my feelings on this forum to perhaps get some (non-judgemental) feedback.
I found a booklet detailing the religious communities who provided pilgrim accommodation and stayed in those where i could, it was a different vibe and i only had one awkward experience.
Hi all,
I’m waking from Le Puy to Santiago and boy, am I on the struggle bus. I walked the Camino Frances 3 years ago, so I’m well aware of what to expect as far as life on The Way.
But the in the last week I’m just very resistant to walking. I speak only “survival French” (my Spanish is much better) and it’s been lonely at dinner with everyone chatting in French. I also don’t feel a tremendous urge to connect to people. One thing I do NOT like doing is booking ahead for rooms. I love walking into a town and staying where the mood strikes. Lots of places close on a Sunday and Monday, I have to plan to bring my lunch and everyone is consumed with “where are you going next?”. I don’t have a timeline to adhere to, I don’t care how many km you’ve walked (a topic that bores me to tears) and I feel lost.
Then I think “I shouldn’t feel this way! I’m back on the Camino, in France, with the best fromage! And adorable villages!! Why am I feeling this way?”
I’m in Livinghac du Haut today, having walked out of Conques yesterday and (I think) pushing myself too far. I’m emotionally spent, and I find my self wanting to stop and “shake off” certain groups of people. I get sick of seeing the same folks over a 5 day period.
I’m not sure what the antidote is, but I thought I’d post my feelings on this forum to perhaps get some (non-judgemental) feedback.
Thank you for this. Wonderful advice
Sorry you’re right. I deleted my response.I don't recall making any remarks about you being American or your specific expectations. Perhaps your projections...?
I share your aversion to being required to book ahead and I really dislike giving up all the spontaneous alternatives I might find along the way. My solution is to carry a bit heavier sleeping bag and a cut down foam pad that will enable me to spend the night comfortably If I don’t find lodging.Hi all,
I’m waking from Le Puy to Santiago and boy, am I on the struggle bus. I walked the Camino Frances 3 years ago, so I’m well aware of what to expect as far as life on The Way.
But the in the last week I’m just very resistant to walking. I speak only “survival French” (my Spanish is much better) and it’s been lonely at dinner with everyone chatting in French. I also don’t feel a tremendous urge to connect to people. One thing I do NOT like doing is booking ahead for rooms. I love walking into a town and staying where the mood strikes. Lots of places close on a Sunday and Monday, I have to plan to bring my lunch and everyone is consumed with “where are you going next?”. I don’t have a timeline to adhere to, I don’t care how many km you’ve walked (a topic that bores me to tears) and I feel lost.
Then I think “I shouldn’t feel this way! I’m back on the Camino, in France, with the best fromage! And adorable villages!! Why am I feeling this way?”
I’m in Livinghac du Haut today, having walked out of Conques yesterday and (I think) pushing myself too far. I’m emotionally spent, and I find my self wanting to stop and “shake off” certain groups of people. I get sick of seeing the same folks over a 5 day period.
I’m not sure what the antidote is, but I thought I’d post my feelings on this forum to perhaps get some (non-judgemental) feedback.
yes yes yes. Also, really “you don’t look American?” I say “I’m from California” and everyone’s faces brighten up. Better than “I’m from the USA, currently the laughing stock of le monde”. I’m averaging about 36€ a day. Sometimes I go cheap and buy my food, other times I enjoy the communal meal. You’re right, the food is outstanding. And yes, many French retirees, all tight-knit and hardy (kicking my butt). The route is gorgeous and so picturesque. But—I’m dreaming of the Frances.dear truenorthpilgrim,
I know EXACTLY what you're went through. I walked the Lepuy in 2017 and decided to return to the States when I made it Moissac (or rather a big fat blister decided for me). I do plan to return to go from Moissac to SJPD.
The language barrier is tough. Very few english speakers do that route. I took three years of French in High school so I can struggle by with some serious effort and of course my handy dictionary. But I found a lot of resistance to speaking English the further I got from the touristy towns.
One time when I said in my poor french "I am sorry, i speak french very poorly, do you speak any english?" the owner of the bnb where I was staying in responded "why should I speak English when I am in France?" His wife seemed horrified at his comment since he did choose to be in the hospitality business. But as it turned out his place had one of the best meals of all the places I stayed in. Yes the LePuy is very pricey compared to the Frances because you get a gourmet meal at each place, usually your own bed not a bunk bed and maybe even your own room with towels. One place had lamb that I can still taste. Average 55 euros a night.
Most hosts did their best and were patient with my poor french. Mostly we laughed a lot. But the walkers themselves were not as warm as the ones on the Camino. My theory is that the Lepuy is viewed more as a trek (GR-65) . French folks love to walk and they take their holidays to walk for a few days and then they go back home. Most walkers were wealthy retirees. Over there people are forced to retire early so they still very fit. The attitude is a bit different too. Everyone wanted to know if I had voted for Trump. Once they learned that I had not, they seemed more accepting and yet...
I also got a lot of "You're American? You don't look American!" I am latina and had a great tan then. If anyone can tell me what an American is supposed to look like, I'd like to hear.
The big difference (other than rougher terrain in the Lepuy) is that in the Lepuy you do have the opportunity to camp. Since it is a famous trail, the French have made sure to provide many camping sites (though far apart) I met a lot of campers and they all said it was the only way to do it and always with a smile on their face. I knew about the camping before I started but being the spoiled princess that I think I am, I decided not to camp. Looking back I regret that decision, I'm going to make sure that I take a tent w me when i return to France and split my time between camping sites and bnb's.
Maybe that's the secret, a combo of rest days and camping days and splurge days. I have to say that the Lepuy walk is ABSOLUTELY gorgeous. The towns you encounter are so picturesque, they look like they were able to stop time. And the food? To die for. Meals can be lonely if no one speaks English but if they see that you try to speak a little bit of french they open up a bit. But make sure you are able reserve a room ahead of time IN FRENCH. That is a must. I did meet some wonderful folks who happened to be Belgian!
Bon Chamin!
Ye
yes yes yes. Also, really “you don’t look American?” I say “I’m from California” and everyone’s faces brighten up. Better than “I’m from the USA, currently the laughing stock of le monde”. I’m averaging about 36€ a day. Sometimes I go cheap and buy my food, other times I enjoy the communal meal. You’re right, the food is outstanding. And yes, many French retirees, all tight-knit and hardy (kicking my butt). The route is gorgeous and so picturesque. But—I’m dreaming of the Frances.
Thanks for sharing!
Thank you for such a lovely response. I’m feeling that the second half will be better. I’m currently resting in Cahors and gathering myself for the weeks ahead.Dear Erin,
Today I am packing. I fly to Porto on Monday, and I am already carrying too many burdens on my shoulders... we will see what the Camino will bring. I'm just hoping for Peace. So, thank you for your generous honesty. It -- and the fulsome responses you've received on this site -- are helping me as I prepare.
I walked the CF in '17 and Podiensis in '18. I enjoyed both immensely but they are not similar at all. I was also not prepared for the ways of the Le Puy route, but did stop by TIs along the way to make reservations (against my will). They always worked out, and I was always happy to stop at the end of our day. I was walking with a friend, so I am not in your shoes. In the end, my favorite pilgrims were those French men and women that went out of their way to speak English to me (because I was butchering their language). I would string together a sentence that was supposed to mean "I'm sorry I do not speak French" and they certainly got the picture. So, I would speak English and they would speak French and we found ways to get by with smiles and hand gestures.
But, I didn't meet most of my favorite Pilgrims until after Conques, so try to be patient. The first 10 days were HARD because we thought we could push ourselves for distances as we did on the CF. It's really best not to. It's okay to slow down, it's okay to take rest days. But you must grant yourself permission and not judge yourself. Remember, it's not a race.
Do stop at Gite Ultreia in Moissac. I think it's exactly what you need. Splurge for a private room (!!)
One of the things I learned about 'me' while on the CF is "Where ever you go, there you are..." So, when I begin to get down or I am hard on myself, that's the time to ask 'why.' The answers are frequently already there, but sometimes we need to slow down, quiet the voices in our head, and really listen.
I realize I'm repeating much of the same as other who have responded, but I do want to note that walking into SJPdP was a Top 10 highlight of my past two Caminos combined.
And, finally, if you figure out that you're not walking the 'right' Camino for you 'right now,' jet over to Porto -- a group of English speakers will be leaving Porto on the 20th headed for SdC. We'll make room for you. But we'll probably book albergues in advance
Cheers! Wishing you the best as you work through your burdens,
Suzanne
Take your time from here , and stay with Aideen in Moisac.Thank you for such a lovely response. I’m feeling that the second half will be better. I’m currently resting in Cahors and gathering myself for the weeks ahead.
I’ve walked the Frances so I know what I’m up against.Take your time from here , and stay with Aideen in Moisac.
Please believe me , Frances will not be any better than whats coming on the GR and in my opinion behind what you have walked.
Be proud of what you are achieving and don't bugger it all up for a tooooo long a day.
At least for the first half. I speak Spanish and am not criticizing the French language; since I believe it is one of the most beautiful. I just missed the comradely of the Camino Frances...where we were lucky enough (and spoiled) to be able to communicate easily with most of the pilgrims. It was a lonely time for me at dining rooms where the only language was French. Well, I’m still glad I did it.
in your situation too! Just spent most of Sunday sitting on a picnic table mapping details of how to go from Condom to Oloron so I could walk the Camino Aragones thru Somport Pass. And all those French pilgrims walked by and all talked to me in broken English and I felt we all felt missing each other’s - even though most of the dinner time I wasn’t talked to! I am still learning French everyday so I know I should converse better!Thank you for this. Wonderful advice
but the very friendly staff in a donativo auberge the night before were too great help. One of the ladies there knew an English woman living in Conques, and she provided beds and delicious food for all of us.
As an Australian who struggles with languages I have found the Spanish walks, Frances, Primitivo and San Salvador, easier because there is a greater mix of nationalities and so English is more commonly used.Hi all,
I’m waking from Le Puy to Santiago and boy, am I on the struggle bus. I walked the Camino Frances 3 years ago, so I’m well aware of what to expect as far as life on The Way.
But the in the last week I’m just very resistant to walking. I speak only “survival French” (my Spanish is much better) and it’s been lonely at dinner with everyone chatting in French. I also don’t feel a tremendous urge to connect to people. One thing I do NOT like doing is booking ahead for rooms. I love walking into a town and staying where the mood strikes. Lots of places close on a Sunday and Monday, I have to plan to bring my lunch and everyone is consumed with “where are you going next?”. I don’t have a timeline to adhere to, I don’t care how many km you’ve walked (a topic that bores me to tears) and I feel lost.
Then I think “I shouldn’t feel this way! I’m back on the Camino, in France, with the best fromage! And adorable villages!! Why am I feeling this way?”
I’m in Livinghac du Haut today, having walked out of Conques yesterday and (I think) pushing myself too far. I’m emotionally spent, and I find my self wanting to stop and “shake off” certain groups of people. I get sick of seeing the same folks over a 5 day period.
I’m not sure what the antidote is, but I thought I’d post my feelings on this forum to perhaps get some (non-judgemental) feedback.
You’re right, I’ve gotten nothing but understanding from the French when I attempt to butcher their language.One thing I love about France, is the support I get when I try to speak French. And I am slow and I am sure I butcher the words at times and hurt peoples' ears. I know that my french is really bad, as I studied french decades ago, and have forgotten everything pretty much-- But people are patient, and smile, repeat themselves, and wait for me to understand. -- I usually begin with an apology-- something like this: "Pardon, je ne parle français, je suis desole. Je connais que nous sommes en France, mais parlez-vous anglais? Non? Alors, je vais essayer de parler francais, mais je vais faire beaucoup d'erreurs."
(Translated: Sorry, I don't speak French, I am really sorry. I know that we are in France, but do you speak english? No? Well, I will try to speak french, but I am going to make a lot of mistakes.)
Attention to those who suggested Ultreïa Moissac! I’m here, kind of loving this small city (larg-ish village?) and have booked myself my own room here for tomorrow night. The weather is hot and unbearable (for me) and I’m feeling under the weather. So now I rest for real.
Last time I was there they were considering selling .Do tell Aideen how well she is regarded on this forum! I and my 5 friends remember her (and her cooking) with great affection.
Hanging there. We are comingHi all,
I’m waking from Le Puy to Santiago and boy, am I on the struggle bus. I walked the Camino Frances 3 years ago, so I’m well aware of what to expect as far as life on The Way.
But the in the last week I’m just very resistant to walking. I speak only “survival French” (my Spanish is much better) and it’s been lonely at dinner with everyone chatting in French. I also don’t feel a tremendous urge to connect to people. One thing I do NOT like doing is booking ahead for rooms. I love walking into a town and staying where the mood strikes. Lots of places close on a Sunday and Monday, I have to plan to bring my lunch and everyone is consumed with “where are you going next?”. I don’t have a timeline to adhere to, I don’t care how many km you’ve walked (a topic that bores me to tears) and I feel lost.
Then I think “I shouldn’t feel this way! I’m back on the Camino, in France, with the best fromage! And adorable villages!! Why am I feeling this way?”
I’m in Livinghac du Haut today, having walked out of Conques yesterday and (I think) pushing myself too far. I’m emotionally spent, and I find my self wanting to stop and “shake off” certain groups of people. I get sick of seeing the same folks over a 5 day period.
I’m not sure what the antidote is, but I thought I’d post my feelings on this forum to perhaps get some (non-judgemental) feedback.
Rest well, @truenorthpilgrim!! Your perseverance is wonderful!!Attention to those who suggested Ultreïa Moissac! I’m here, kind of loving this small city (larg-ish village?) and have booked myself my own room here for tomorrow night. The weather is hot and unbearable (for me) and I’m feeling under the weather. So now I rest for real.
Hi all,
I’m waking from Le Puy to Santiago and boy, am I on the struggle bus. I walked the Camino Frances 3 years ago, so I’m well aware of what to expect as far as life on The Way.
But the in the last week I’m just very resistant to walking. I speak only “survival French” (my Spanish is much better) and it’s been lonely at dinner with everyone chatting in French. I also don’t feel a tremendous urge to connect to people. One thing I do NOT like doing is booking ahead for rooms. I love walking into a town and staying where the mood strikes. Lots of places close on a Sunday and Monday, I have to plan to bring my lunch and everyone is consumed with “where are you going next?”. I don’t have a timeline to adhere to, I don’t care how many km you’ve walked (a topic that bores me to tears) and I feel lost.
Then I think “I shouldn’t feel this way! I’m back on the Camino, in France, with the best fromage! And adorable villages!! Why am I feeling this way?”
I’m in Livinghac du Haut today, having walked out of Conques yesterday and (I think) pushing myself too far. I’m emotionally spent, and I find my self wanting to stop and “shake off” certain groups of people. I get sick of seeing the same folks over a 5 day period.
I’m not sure what the antidote is, but I thought I’d post my feelings on this forum to perhaps get some (non-judgemental) feedback.
I usely walk my pilgrimages alone (allways) find some compagnion on the way for a couples of days og just a day. It never seems as a struggle in spain.This thread really illustrates how different via Podiensis and camino Frances are.
I have done LePuy twice and rank as my favorite camino experience. But always walked with a companion so there was some dinnertime English without the survival French struggle (both ways). I do not think I would chose to do LePuy route solo.
I am not drawn to the CF for the 'family'; I love walking, so Podiensis has that advantage. But for ease and low stress the CF wins-- although the increase in foot traffic has made advance reservations there necessary for this slow walker.
I have no real advice except to do what is in your heart and not get caught in the 'I must finish this' mentality.
My old age mantra is "I will do discomfort but I will not do misery"
bon chemin
Google translate app...perhaps?Hi all,
I’m waking from Le Puy to Santiago and boy, am I on the struggle bus. I walked the Camino Frances 3 years ago, so I’m well aware of what to expect as far as life on The Way.
But the in the last week I’m just very resistant to walking. I speak only “survival French” (my Spanish is much better) and it’s been lonely at dinner with everyone chatting in French. I also don’t feel a tremendous urge to connect to people. One thing I do NOT like doing is booking ahead for rooms. I love walking into a town and staying where the mood strikes. Lots of places close on a Sunday and Monday, I have to plan to bring my lunch and everyone is consumed with “where are you going next?”. I don’t have a timeline to adhere to, I don’t care how many km you’ve walked (a topic that bores me to tears) and I feel lost.
Then I think “I shouldn’t feel this way! I’m back on the Camino, in France, with the best fromage! And adorable villages!! Why am I feeling this way?”
I’m in Livinghac du Haut today, having walked out of Conques yesterday and (I think) pushing myself too far. I’m emotionally spent, and I find my self wanting to stop and “shake off” certain groups of people. I get sick of seeing the same folks over a 5 day period.
I’m not sure what the antidote is, but I thought I’d post my feelings on this forum to perhaps get some (non-judgemental) feedback.
YEP - Thanks God for Google. Used it some times also in Spain. It just difficult when using the cellphone. But I'm working on that as well ;o))Google translate app...perhaps?
Love
Delighted to hear that you completed the Chemin Le Puy.Thank you all for responding and especially to those commenters that were able to tease out exactly what I was feeling during that week. There are some sharp and wise forum members on here who “read between the lines” so well and intuit the heart of the matter. And thanks to @Felice for checking on me in Moissac. You are a treasure. ❤
I’m in Roncesvalles now and doing much better. Ready to take on Spain.
I think this would be a very challenging route for folks who don't speak much French. I know that I would have felt intense loneliness. Congratulations on continuing on.
But ... I do speak French, and have to deeply disagree with folks who are suggesting that people on the Via Podiensis are any less "spiritual," or that they are more hikers-than-pilgrims than people on the main routes in Spain. This wasn't my experience at all.
yes yes yes. Also, really “you don’t look American?” I say “I’m from California” and everyone’s faces brighten up. Better than “I’m from the USA, currently the laughing stock of le monde”. I’m averaging about 36€ a day. Sometimes I go cheap and buy my food, other times I enjoy the communal meal. You’re right, the food is outstanding. And yes, many French retirees, all tight-knit and hardy (kicking my butt). The route is gorgeous and so picturesque. But—I’m dreaming of the Frances.
I think this would be a very challenging route for folks who don't speak much French. I know that I would have felt intense loneliness. Congratulations on continuing on.
But ... I do speak French, and have to deeply disagree with folks who are suggesting that people on the Via Podiensis are any less "spiritual," or that they are more hikers-than-pilgrims than people on the main routes in Spain. This wasn't my experience at all.
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