Tattoo Along Camino

[Trainee 1949]

This is a "Just in Case " request

I have plenty of time till April 20 to STJPDP But while I prepare physically and mentally/spiritually I was thinking of a proper " momento "of my trip

I have never been a fan of tattoo's but as I continue my life journey (66) was thinking that I could "take the plunge" ---- moderate size and discreet placement --upper arm !!!

I would not get one in preparation of my journey only while in route

Any recommendation of artist along the way from Pamplona to Santiago
Thanks -- I did a search and found numerous designs but no artist location or recommendations

 

[Kanga]

No, I can't help. My bodily "momento" is to get my hair cut and styled somewhere along the way. And maybe my nails painted (if the hand washing doesn't destroy them).

 

[scruffy1]

Must be one in Burgos or Leon even Santiago. Ask at the Tourist Inforation in each place. Tatoos are your own business, all my life I have been surrounded by people with them, never tempted. It doesn't hurt that much to do, b-u-t, the finished project must be kept covered, clean and sterile, and untouched for at least a week afterwards - the Camino is obviously not the place for that! Exposure to sun, infection, or bruising will not make your tatoo look any nicer, wait until you get back home. And, they also itch, sometimes incredicbily much - especially as you want to go to sleep.

 

[Deleted member 3000]

Lots of discussion here:

https://www.caminodesantiago.me/community/threads/post-camino-tattoo.2610/

 

[JohnCP43]

I would be very concerned about getting a tattoo overseas. I know, Spain is not a third world country but I'd be careful even here in the US. "Have you had a tattoo, body piercing, etc" is always asked before giving blood and if answered in the affirmative disqualifies you you an extended period because of concerns re HIV, hepatitis and other not so fun things. The issues of caring for a fresh tattoo raised above are also very valid.
I always also get a kick out of the pre donation question about have you ever paid for sex. I ask if my wife getting my paycheck every two weeks counts. They're always pleasant and act like they've never heard that before.
Personally, I'd settle for the scallop shell and compostela, or as my mother used to say, "let's not and say we did!"

 

[wingnut]

I had one done (St James Cross on thigh) when completing SJPP in Feb 2012 in Santiago. It is not terribly good or bad (never trust a tattooist without a waiting list) but means a lot to me now. I plan to start another long camino in 2 weeks time still can't make my mind up which one..... maybe will get another tattoo

 

[TaijiPilgrim]

My friend and her husband had previously walked from SJPP to Burgos, and after he died this winter, we walked together to help her complete the camino for both her husband and herself. One of the things he wanted when he completed the camino was a tattoo. So in Santiago, we went to Sagrada Corazon - near Ivar's - and she got a tattoo for her husband and one for her. I am not a tattoo person, but I was impressed by the professionalism, the level of sanitation and safety, and the friendliness and care of the staff. My friend, by the way, might have been one of their oldest customers. She is 74!

 

[Wildflower Woman]

My son and I each got one in Santiago, at Sagrada Corazon and was also very impressed. Buen Camino!