Tassie Kaz
Sempre Avanti
- Time of past OR future Camino
- 2024?
In addition to my trail posting, thought I'd include some practical info (as a currently-walking full VF'er) based on the queries/concerns people seem to have prior to setting out or when considering if the VF is a possible option.
Day 52
approx 1300km
Mortara, Italy
Footwear - Salomon XA Lite Trail Running. Bought size 1 & 1/3 larger than normal street footwear.
Tread wearing under ball of foot which is to be expected after nearly 1300km but still some on edges & plenty on heels. Not a stitch has given way, nothing has come unglued & original laces still going strong...no doubt at all about them going the whole distance.
*No personal safety concerns throughout...I'm talking as a solo, female walker here. I've never felt in the least bit threatened. Gangs of youths in hoodies etc hanging around eateries (especially the ubiquitous kebab shops..) in towns/cities somewhat intimidating but no trouble.
*No issues with dogs except one occasion in early days of France. 99% of dogs have been fenced or leashed & the one's that weren't would lick you to death
*First & only mozzie bite today.
*First snake encounter yesterday (rice paddies) sure to be more with summer conditions
*Some roads have been a bit nervewracking walking along but so far I'm unscathed...
*First hayfever this week but easily managed with over-the-counter medication. I'd be concerned for asthmatics in northern Italy; the amount of pollens, seeds, etc floating in the air is extraordinary...at times it looks like snow falling.
*Accommodation (booked in advance but cancellable) has met or exceeded expectations. Rates have been fair for standard/area & some have been an absolute bargain. Booking ahead gives much better rate than last minute. Italy cheaper & higher standard than France & usually includes excellent breakfast.
*English more widely spoken/understood than I was lead to believe through France, Switzerland & Italy (so far). As a rule I never ask if someone speaks English, I always start by trying to speak their language. That effort is appreciated & English then ensues straight away (for which I'm eternally thankful)...often before I've finished my sentence!
*Other VF walkers; very rare but sure to change as I near the more popular regions. No through walkers but a few short haulers or week-a-year types including some 'reversies'.
Sempre Avanti
Day 52
approx 1300km
Mortara, Italy
Footwear - Salomon XA Lite Trail Running. Bought size 1 & 1/3 larger than normal street footwear.
Tread wearing under ball of foot which is to be expected after nearly 1300km but still some on edges & plenty on heels. Not a stitch has given way, nothing has come unglued & original laces still going strong...no doubt at all about them going the whole distance.
*No personal safety concerns throughout...I'm talking as a solo, female walker here. I've never felt in the least bit threatened. Gangs of youths in hoodies etc hanging around eateries (especially the ubiquitous kebab shops..) in towns/cities somewhat intimidating but no trouble.
*No issues with dogs except one occasion in early days of France. 99% of dogs have been fenced or leashed & the one's that weren't would lick you to death
*First & only mozzie bite today.
*First snake encounter yesterday (rice paddies) sure to be more with summer conditions
*Some roads have been a bit nervewracking walking along but so far I'm unscathed...
*First hayfever this week but easily managed with over-the-counter medication. I'd be concerned for asthmatics in northern Italy; the amount of pollens, seeds, etc floating in the air is extraordinary...at times it looks like snow falling.
*Accommodation (booked in advance but cancellable) has met or exceeded expectations. Rates have been fair for standard/area & some have been an absolute bargain. Booking ahead gives much better rate than last minute. Italy cheaper & higher standard than France & usually includes excellent breakfast.
*English more widely spoken/understood than I was lead to believe through France, Switzerland & Italy (so far). As a rule I never ask if someone speaks English, I always start by trying to speak their language. That effort is appreciated & English then ensues straight away (for which I'm eternally thankful)...often before I've finished my sentence!
*Other VF walkers; very rare but sure to change as I near the more popular regions. No through walkers but a few short haulers or week-a-year types including some 'reversies'.
Sempre Avanti
Last edited: