LIVE from the Camino Thoughts so far

[Seabird]

I've done 5 days walking so far, starting in St. Palais. Was able to cross the Napoleon Route, although still some snow on the pass. A beautiful day, except for the wind. Those who came up later got caught in a nasty storm, though. I was very glad I had stopped at Orisson to get an early start on the day.

And I feel great! Tired, of course, but the advice received here has made all the difference. My pack is 6 kilograms, with a front pack of another 1.3 kilogram, plus water. Together I feel balanced and light.

Thoughts so far on my gear. I'm glad I brought my light sleeping quilt. Haven't needed it in some places, but have an others. Glad I brought the leggings, which I wore last night to sleep in here in Zubiri. Left home the synthetic down jacket and rain pants, and haven't needed them. The one thing I left that I wish I had is the flat piece of rubber to use as a sink stopper. A sock in a bag is not a good alternative.

Ultreya!

 

[peregrina2000]

Hi, Seabird,
Glad you are well and enjoying your camino. If your only regret turns out to be not bringing a sink stopper, your Camino is going to be a smashing success! Wishing you the very best, Laurie

 

[MaryLynn]

Glad to hear that your Camino has had a good start! Enjoy every minute!

 

[Rick M]

The pass was special for us as well. we are probably on the same path now, since we took a day off in Pamplona. Now in Puenta la Reina, probably run into you somewhere.

Beun Camino!

 

[CaminoDebrita]

Hurray! You are on your way. And every day on Camino Frances will be beautiful --although occasionally wet. Lucky you, getting over the Napoleon Route pass with decent weather.

Buen Camino!

 

[Seabird]

And may it continue ! You started in Saint Palais. Would you do it again? Recommend it?

For my first Camino, yes, I'm glad I did that. Perhaps another Camino I would start in Lourdes as an alternative instead of repeating the same route. I stayed in Larceveau instead of Ostabat for my first night, so 13 K the first day and 20K the second day.

 

[Peter Fransiscus]

For my first Camino, yes, I'm glad I did that. Perhaps another Camino I would start in Lourdes as an alternative instead of repeating the same route. I stayed in Larceveau instead of Ostabat for my first night, so 13 K the first day and 20K the second day.

Hi, glad that you enjoying yourself and that you walked the Napoleon route.
Wish you a great journey for the futere day's.

 

[MaidinBham]

I would be interested to hear more on your backpack with front pack, when you have time.
Maybe you will find my sink stopper I left on The Way
Ultrea!
Janice

 

[MaryLynn]

For my first Camino, yes, I'm glad I did that. Perhaps another Camino I would start in Lourdes as an alternative instead of repeating the same route. I stayed in Larceveau instead of Ostabat for my first night, so 13 K the first day and 20K the second day.

I am so happy that the two 'warm-up' days worked out for you! A different alternative for you (next time) might be to start in Oloron St. Marie. Beautiful town, and you cross the Pyrenees at Somport. I hope the weather is good for you! So far.