COVID Wave of pilgrims when lock down is over?

[Antonius Vaessen]

Like many others I had caminoplans in the near future (may from Le Puy en Velay to Irun) I am retired, am for a great deal "master of my own time" so I can start my camino real soon after lock down is over. I don't like crowds, races for beds and so on though. Now I don't know what to expect, will many people who could not go take up their plans as soon as possible? I know that no one can see in the future that is why I want to ask a specific question:
Did you have to cancel a camino, if so do you still want to go and plan to go in the near future or postpone it.
Answers could give me some insight in what I may expect. Next year is holy year, that would lead to much more pilgrims on their way. (I don't know if that will also be the case on the Le Puy route, as this is also walked by walkers who don't walk in the direction of Santiago)
Thanks for all answers

 

[alexwalker]

I had to cancel this April. I am retired. I am ready to go as soon it's possible. CF.

 

[wayfarer]

Like many others I had caminoplans in the near future (may from Le Puy en Velay to Irun) I am retired, am for a great deal "master of my own time" so I can start my camino real soon after lock down is over. I don't like crowds, races for beds and so on though. Now I don't know what to expect, will many people who could not go take up their plans as soon as possible? I know that no one can see in the future that is why I want to ask a specific question:
Did you have to cancel a camino, if so do you still want to go and plan to go in the near future or postpone it.
Answers could give me some insight in what I may expect. Next year is holy year, that would lead to much more pilgrims on their way. (I don't know if that will also be the case on the Le Puy route, as this is also walked by walkers who don't walk in the direction of Santiago)
Thanks for all answers

I think the Camino may be quiet for some time until people are fully sure that everything is ok.

 

[Bradypus]

I was due to travel to Spain on the weekend that the lockdown was announced and cancelled my plans just two days before the announcement. I much prefer the less-travelled routes these days and was intending to walk the Camino Zamorano Portugues. Once travel is practical again I hope to do that as soon as possible. But serious illness in my family may put a spanner in the works even then. No option at the moment but to sit and watch how things develop.

 

[dougfitz]

I will be replanning once travel restrictions, etc are lifted. It will give you a little time to get along the way as I sort out the details

 

[nidarosa]

I have also got flexible work and will probably go back as soon as it is safe and legal to do so. Was planning for the meseta, possibly walking to Fisterra if I have time, and will stick to the CF for the infrastructure and to spend my money on my favourite places and people. Would wait until I know the state of this infrastructure though - the sad truth is that some (many?) places will probably not survive the economic hit if it lasts too long. But I suppose the municipals would be open?

 

[JanskeMarie]

I was going to hike the Camino Madrid to Sahagun this September. But I'm afraid this is too early to be able to get out safely, even though all restrictions have been lifted around that time.
That is why I now think of May-June 2021 that I will go out.

 

[Rick of Rick and Peg]

But I suppose the municipals would be open?

I would suppose this. I thinking that means you may be better off on the lesser traveled caminos that have municipals than the CF. The CF municipals may be full if the private albergues have had to close up shop. I'm assuming here that the CF will likely be the camino that will attract the post-covid crowds.

 

[bjorgts]

This is interesting! JanskeMarie says September, but maybe not until next year. I think next year. What is "when it's safe"? What is the time perspective of you who are writing here now? Do you think you will walk in 2020? Spring? Summer? Autumn? Are you willing to travel as soon as the travel restrictions are lifted? The virus will be suppressed at one time or another, but it probably won't go away. Therefore, it is interesting to read the answers here.

Are you willing to walk a Camino before we get a vaccine? I am a pensioner as many of you are. Most of us then are part of the risk group - just by our age. I was supposed to start my Camino del Ebro in a week now, but now I imagine there may not be a new Camino in a year. The best I can hope for is late fall this year, but I don't think it will be. I will not dare to go for a Camino as soon as the travel restrictions are lifted.

 

[kelleymac]

I am wondering about possible changes in health code laws that may change the camino. How many beds/room, etc? I remember being coughed on in one albergue in the middle of the night-- I could feel the droplets hit my face. The peregrino next to me was seriously ill. He should have been in a separate room-- but my guess is that he didn't have enough money, and/or was more ill than he realized. (I am often in self-denial when ill.) The people running the albergue told me that they rely on individuals to determine if they are ill enough to self-quarantine. So.. maybe that will change.

Even when the Camino opens, I will probably wait until I have immunity-- either through an inoculation or getting the covid-19 virus.

 

[micamino73]

I doubt the Camino will reopen in 2020. This lockdown isn’t going to resolve until there is a treatment or vaccine.

 

[Lunchmeat337]

Vaccine first then Camino. Also, life along the Camino needs to settle down and get back to normal before I go again. I can wait. BTW, I recently cancelled my April 23, 2020 trip to SJPP.

 

[rabtacoma]

We are scheduled for SJPDP - Burgos (did first half in 2019) mid September . We have some risk factors and need to travel from Seattle, USA. I’m beginning to wrap my head around that this is not going to happen. I’d like to go in 2021 but don’t enjoy crowds. I’ve heard that most of the Holy Year crowds will be the 2nd half so it may still work for us.

 

[easygoing]

This is a difficult question. I still have plane tickets in May and I'm waiting for the airlines to cancel the flight because I've heard I have more options that way. But they only give you 6 months to reschedule although I'm hoping for a year. Two flights round trip from Seattle were expensive and I would just hate to lose the money. But of course I don't want to put myself or other people at risk. I'm from near Seattle which is one of the epicenters of the virus. So my risk of catching the virus is probably similar in both counties.
But on the other hand financially Spain needs the tourist industry so what to do? ( My friends in Pamplona and Leon are looking forward to my return)

 

[marylynn]

I had planned to meet up with my 2017 Camino friends and walk part of the CF with them in June, then go to Denmark to walk our unwalked part of the Haervejen with my 2011 Camino (Danish) friend in July. All that is cancelled. I think the Caminos in 2021 and 2022 will be insanely overcrowded, so last November may have been my last Camino. ?????

 

[Mada]

We would have walked Leon to Santiago in May this year, but we are not retired and our time limited to school holidays in South Africa. Because of the lockdown and restrictions here, most school holidays will probably be shortened and/or cancelled, so we have to postpone to 2021.

 

[nidarosa]

Are you willing to walk a Camino before we get a vaccine?

Good questions, and for me that answer would probably be no, unless there are proven and effective medicines. I haven't been self-isolating this long just to go and end up a burden on a different country's health system ... but I also don't expect travel restrictions to be lifted to that extent until vaccine or meds have been found. When it is safe and legal again though, whenever that may be, I am ready.

 

[Anik2001]

I was hoping to walk the Francés in July, but if my flights are cancelled (which will probably happen), then I will have to postpone until 2021 or 2022, since I can only walk in the summer.

 

[bjorgts]

I had planned to meet up with my 2017 Camino friends and walk part of the CF with them in June, then go to Denmark to walk our unwalked part of the Haervejen with my 2011 Camino (Danish) friend in July. All that is cancelled. I think the Caminos in 2021 and 2022 will be insanely overcrowded, so last November may have been my last Camino. ?????

Perhaps it is important now that we remember this: Very many Caminos in Spain have never been overcrowded. There is plenty of space! Most of these Caminos won't be overcrowded for many years either - I guess. I haven't been to a Camino with a lot of people for the last ten years. For those of us who know that we do not have so many years left to walk the Caminos, it is perhaps hopeful to remember that it is always possible to find a Camino with solitude - even in 2021.

 

[Guy Strachan]

Like many others I had caminoplans in the near future (may from Le Puy en Velay to Irun) I am retired, am for a great deal "master of my own time" so I can start my camino real soon after lock down is over. I don't like crowds, races for beds and so on though. Now I don't know what to expect, will many people who could not go take up their plans as soon as possible? I know that no one can see in the future that is why I want to ask a specific question:
Did you have to cancel a camino, if so do you still want to go and plan to go in the near future or postpone it.
Answers could give me some insight in what I may expect. Next year is holy year, that would lead to much more pilgrims on their way. (I don't know if that will also be the case on the Le Puy route, as this is also walked by walkers who don't walk in the direction of Santiago)
Thanks for all answers

This thing isn’t likely to go away quickly and when it really gets going in India, Africa, South America and Central America etc “you ain’t seen nothing yet”...
I was due to walk the Invierno in early May with my wife & father but cancelled last month and putting it back by a year (exactly!) when hopefully some normality will have returned to our lives and the World in general.
We all just need to be sensible - and patient.
Don’t worry the Camino will always be there.

 

[VNwalking]

I think the Camino may be quiet for some time until people are fully sure that everything is ok.

Do you think you will walk in 2020? Spring? Summer? Autumn? Are you willing to travel as soon as the travel restrictions are lifted? The virus will be suppressed at one time or another, but it probably won't go away.

I hope the Camino is quiet for some time until people are fully sure that everything is ok.

I have to admit astonishment at some of the responses. Seriously?

This thing is not just going to quietly go away in a few months, tracing a tidy parabolic curve as it goes down to zero. There will be waves, perhaps several. So I hate to say it, but it seems more realistic to give it up for this year - and maybe even next year.

There is also the consideration that everything won't just snap back to the way it all was. There are too many aspects life this will affect.

 

[Camino Chrissy]

I had planned to meet up with my 2017 Camino friends and walk part of the CF with them in June, then go to Denmark to walk our unwalked part of the Haervejen with my 2011 Camino (Danish) friend in July. All that is cancelled. I think the Caminos in 2021 and 2022 will be insanely overcrowded, so last November may have been my last Camino. ?????

Hopefully you have not had the last of your camino/travels, Marylynn.
That's my hope after having to cancel my April 19th departure for the Norte. I will wait until the "coast is clear" and then wait some more, but I desire to keep on walking.

 

[Dennis White]

No vaccine no Camino. We all at least owe that to the communities that have suffered so much

 

[VNwalking]

No vaccine no Camino. We all at least owe that to the communities that have suffered so much.

Thank you, Dennis. This is so much bigger than our little camino plans.

 

[Barbara]

I will be cycling down my drive with a tent the day the lockdown is lifted. Central France, so not ever busy. Well, have you heard of the Eastern variant of the Tours route? Via Angouleme.

 

[Dennis White]

Chances are you will need a certificate of vaccination at immigration, at least in the short term.

 

[Barbara]

Dennis, I won't be passing any borders. Some of us live in Europe.

 

[murraydv]

I was due to travel to Spain on the weekend that the lockdown was announced and cancelled my plans just two days before the announcement. I much prefer the less-travelled routes these days and was intending to walk the Camino Zamorano Portugues. Once travel is practical again I hope to do that as soon as possible. But serious illness in my family may put a spanner in the works even then. No option at the moment but to sit and watch how things develop.

Realistically, I don’t think that any of us will see the Camino in 2020, Unfortunately

 

[Theatregal]

For me...only after there's a vaccine, after the lockdown is lifted and most importantly after there is clarity from Spain (or any country) that guests are welcome in their country as an asset and not a burden on their people and infrastructure. This will not suddenly be "business as usual". Beyond infrastructure being ready for visitors, we will be a world in grief. This crisis is still developing and escalating.

 

[Dani7]

I am definitely doing the CF, was supposed to start my walk from SJPdP this Palm Sunday. Too early to tell how this virus may change our world in the future but I will walk it one day. The call to me has never wavered. The earliest I’m thinking is 2022.

 

[Isca-camigo]

I doubt the Camino will reopen in 2020. This lockdown isn’t going to resolve until there is a treatment or vaccine.

This. + possibly proof of antibodys, which would allow you to access places and other countries.
I still have in mind a Xmas Camino but it seems likely that the Northern Hemisphere will be going through a 2nd wave of this at that time, so I have a feeling it will be summer 2021, I always intended to walk from my home via the Plymouth- Santander ferry to arrive on the 22/23 July for the Holy day, this is my most likeliest scenario.

 

[Antonius Vaessen]

For me...only after there's a vaccine, after the lockdown is lifted and most importantly after there is clarity from Spain (or any country) that guests are welcome in their country as an asset and not a burden on their people and infrastructure. This will not suddenly be "business as usual". Beyond infrastructure being ready for visitors, we will be a world in grief. This crisis is still developing and escalating.

Of course it goes without saying we'll all have to wait till Spain and France allow and welcome us. If there is a vaccin is not so important for me, at least not for my own safety. It might be a decisive factor though for the receiving countries in deciding if they will open their borders

 

[Barbara]

You could google "Pilgrimage during the Black Death" to get some perspective on this.

 

[trecile]

If there is a vaccin is not so important for me, at least not for my own safety.

But it's not about your safety. It's about the safety of others and not spreading the virus! It's international travel that has made this virus so "successful" at infecting so many across the globe.

 

[Bumpa]

I had planned to meet up with my 2017 Camino friends and walk part of the CF with them in June, then go to Denmark to walk our unwalked part of the Haervejen with my 2011 Camino (Danish) friend in July. All that is cancelled. I think the Caminos in 2021 and 2022 will be insanely overcrowded, so last November may have been my last Camino. ?????

Ah! A worry for some of us Marylynn. I had planned on a portion of the Frances in the Fall but don't see that as being a viable option this year. I fear that 2021 will be wall to wall people which is not something I want to be part of. The problem is that I will be pushing 80 in 2022 and who knows what that may bring. Like you I fear that I have been to the Camino for the last time. I think all we can do is keep walking and be ready when the opportunity presents itself.

Maybe we can meet again at the Port Hope service center on the 401 and sip coffee through straws, past our masks and from a 2 meter distance. Hope you are well

 

[Antonius Vaessen]

But it's not about your safety. It's about the safety of others and not spreading the virus! It's international travel that has made this virus so "successful" at infecting so many across the globe.

I agree but I follow the decisions of the government who will have to judge the situation. At some moment life will have to become normal again.

 

[Turga]

Dennis, I won't be passing any borders. Some of us live in Europe.

You will still be passing (internal) borders, some of which may be closed/restricted.

 

[VNwalking]

You can re-post, @Dani7.
Here it is:

8 strains of the coronavirus are circling the globe. Here's what clues they're giving scientists.

Scientists sequenced the genomes of eight coronavirus strains circling the globe providing hints about the effectiveness of efforts to halt the virus.

www.usatoday.com

 

[Barbara]

Nope, don't think there are any borders between Poitiers and Pau.. Not all Caminos start in Spain, and I only have a couple of weeks to spare at a time.

 

[trecile]

You could google "Pilgrimage during the Black Death" to get some perspective on this.

Googled it and came up with this article titled The medieval pilgrimage routes, key to the spread of the Black Death

Definitely food for thought.

The medieval pilgrimage routes, key to the spread of the Black Death

According to a study, populations located within commercial roads or pilgrimage like the Camino de Santiago are weaker against the spread of epidemics

vivecamino.com

 

[C clearly]

You can re-post, @Dani7.
Here it is:

8 strains of the coronavirus are circling the globe. Here's what clues they're giving scientists.

Scientists sequenced the genomes of eight coronavirus strains circling the globe providing hints about the effectiveness of efforts to halt the virus.

www.usatoday.com

But the significance of this fact may not be a good subject for discussion on the forum, or on this thread in particular.

 

[Dani7]

But the significance of this fact may not be a good subject for discussion on the forum, or on this thread in particular.

Thank you for finding and wholeheartedly agree, should not be discussed in this thread.

 

[Molly Cassidy]

Like many others I had caminoplans in the near future (may from Le Puy en Velay to Irun) I am retired, am for a great deal "master of my own time" so I can start my camino real soon after lock down is over. I don't like crowds, races for beds and so on though. Now I don't know what to expect, will many people who could not go take up their plans as soon as possible? I know that no one can see in the future that is why I want to ask a specific question:
Did you have to cancel a camino, if so do you still want to go and plan to go in the near future or postpone it.
Answers could give me some insight in what I may expect. Next year is holy year, that would lead to much more pilgrims on their way. (I don't know if that will also be the case on the Le Puy route, as this is also walked by walkers who don't walk in the direction of Santiago)
Thanks for all answers

I had planned to start from St Jean Pied de Port on 27th May. I haven't actually cancelled anything. I had an email from one of the places I've booked to stay today. They said they have changed their cancellation policy so I can leave it until the last minute to decide and not lose any money.
Will I go as soon as possible? It depends on a few factors. If the theatres in the UK reopen I will have to finish the contract I was working on before they closed. But I'm definitely looking to go this year if I can.

 

[VNwalking]

It's fine to delete it. No problemo. ❤
And this info is not necessarily irrelevant here. We're facing a complicated unfolding process - and when I read that article it empasized for me that it's a situation that is neither simple nor quick to end.
(And the Nextstrain site was super-interesting.)
Thanks, Dani!

 

[Dani7]

It's fine to delete it. No problemo. ❤
And this info is not necessarily irrelevant here. We're facing a complicated unfolding process - and when I read that article it empasized for me that it's a situation that is neither simple nor quick to end.
(And the Nextstrain site was super-interesting.)
Thanks, Dani!

We think alike

 

[The Kolbist]

This is a difficult question. I still have plane tickets in May and I'm waiting for the airlines to cancel the flight because I've heard I have more options that way. But they only give you 6 months to reschedule although I'm hoping for a year. Two flights round trip from Seattle were expensive and I would just hate to lose the money. But of course I don't want to put myself or other people at risk. I'm from near Seattle which is one of the epicenters of the virus. So my risk of catching the virus is probably similar in both counties.
But on the other hand financially Spain needs the tourist industry so what to do? ( My friends in Pamplona and Leon are looking forward to my return)

Ditto. we got tickets for late May Camino del Norte but we'll wait until it's clear to do it but we're still hoping and praying that we can do it this year. Reason is we believe that in times like this all the more that we need to do a pilgrimage. Of course, we wont do it when it's still burning and no vaccine is available yet. We also believe that doing the Camino and help spread that the Camino routes are open would also help Spain and the people in the camino, in one way or another as theyre getting hit economically.

 

[Barbara]

Of course, the Black Death did kill a significantly larger number of those who caught it..... Around half, all age groups.

 

[Onefootinfrontoftheother]

Like many others I had caminoplans in the near future (may from Le Puy en Velay to Irun) I am retired, am for a great deal "master of my own time" so I can start my camino real soon after lock down is over. I don't like crowds, races for beds and so on though. Now I don't know what to expect, will many people who could not go take up their plans as soon as possible? I know that no one can see in the future that is why I want to ask a specific question:
Did you have to cancel a camino, if so do you still want to go and plan to go in the near future or postpone it.
Answers could give me some insight in what I may expect. Next year is holy year, that would lead to much more pilgrims on their way. (I don't know if that will also be the case on the Le Puy route, as this is also walked by walkers who don't walk in the direction of Santiago)
Thanks for all answers

This year I had planned three Caminos- Le Puy (March) cancelled. The Camino Ingles (end of July) not yet cancelled but I’m expecting to have to cancel it, and from Seville to Santiago in October- I’m really hoping that will be possible. I’ll do anything I’ve had to cancel this year, next year, if at all possible. Buen Camino! Whenever you go...

 

[Dennis White]

No matter where to travel in the future vaccine first, travel plans second. Keep it simple!

 

[Rick of Rick and Peg]

Keep in mind travel insurance. I imagine that they will not cover covid unless you have been vaccinated.

 

[Dennis White]

Dennis, I won't be passing any borders. Some of us live in Europe.

How relevant is Schengen today? How relevant will it be when all this is over?

 

[Barbara]

Dennis, I did clarify in a later post. I'll be going from Poitiers to Pau But yes, Schengen will still be relevant, and I doubt if any virus will notice a border.

 

[gittiharre]

Like many others I had caminoplans in the near future (may from Le Puy en Velay to Irun) I am retired, am for a great deal "master of my own time" so I can start my camino real soon after lock down is over. I don't like crowds, races for beds and so on though. Now I don't know what to expect, will many people who could not go take up their plans as soon as possible? I know that no one can see in the future that is why I want to ask a specific question:
Did you have to cancel a camino, if so do you still want to go and plan to go in the near future or postpone it.
Answers could give me some insight in what I may expect. Next year is holy year, that would lead to much more pilgrims on their way. (I don't know if that will also be the case on the Le Puy route, as this is also walked by walkers who don't walk in the direction of Santiago)
Thanks for all answers

There won't be caminos next year. I expect the paths and albergues won't reopen until well after vaccinations have commenced.
Many owners of albergues and hotels, restaurants, cafes etc will not have been able to hold on to their businesses and will be closed. I imagine places will gradually reopen, but it will be a very different experience for a while. Many people may not have money available for travel. Airlines will have gone out of business and the skies will be dominated by companies that were bailed out by governments. Who knows, what will happen to prices of air tickets.
The one good thing is, that perhaps the bedbug population has been starved of survival...

 

[Kiwi-family]

Another factor to consider that I have not noticed mentioned is that people on the whole will likely have less disposable income. The approaching recession will take its own toll.

 

[Dennis White]

Dennis, I did clarify in a later post. I'll be going from Poitiers to Pau But yes, Schengen will still be relevant, and I doubt if any virus will notice a border.

Certainly have no difference with you re borderless virus or travelling internally in France. Other aspects of travelling around maybe open to question.

 

[NicP]

Now I don't know what to expect, will many people who could not go take up their plans as soon as possible? I know that no one can see in the future that is why I want to ask a specific question:

Did you have to cancel a camino, if so do you still want to go and plan to go in the near future or postpone it.

For me (I was due to travel to SJPDP on 28 April 2020, now cancelled), I will walk as soon as it is safe and sensible to do so. My work can be relatively flexible, so I am fortunate in this respect. What is safe? That's a subjective assessment that each of us will have to make for themselves... Its difficult to know how long my own country (New Zealand) will keep its borders closed - I think that that is likely to be the rate-limiting step in decisions to travel abroad for those of us in this part of the world. Spain and France will, it seems, continue to struggle with this malady and its consequences for some time, however for me, I am comfortable with relying on the advice of the Spanish and French authorities with regard to when it is appropriate to be on pilgrimage in their respective countries. If a vaccine becomes available I will certainly avail myself of it when I can, unless I develop immunity via infection first, but I dont imagine that that will have a significant impact on the timing of the Camino being open for pilgrims again.

In my decision making on when to go, the most important factor will be to not make the situation worse than it already is, by potentially inadvertently spreading the virus around - something lots of others have also mentioned. Once I'm comfortable that that is not a likely scenario, I'll go. On the other hand, staying home because "its not safe" is per se, in my view, a nonsense.... life "is not safe"... what is that old saying? - The only things that you can count on in life are death and taxes?

In any case - my more direct answer to the question posed by the OP: if I can go in October this year, I'll go with the idea to walk the Camino Frances from SJPDP or Roncesvalles. I can't foresee that it will be a realistic option for me prior to that, given the current situation both at home and globally. If it doesn't look like that's possible, I'd likely go in February, if this were viable.

In truth, we can speculate as much as we like - only time will tell... but whist so many things remain up in the air, we in this community are fantastically lucky to have a thing as lovely as the Camino to speculate and fantasize about!

Take care of yourselves, and buen camino!

 

[Albertagirl]

I had been planning for caminos every year for the foreseeable future (which is not very long, when you are in your seventies). Now, I will not go until there is a vaccine. I expect to go in 2021 and will hang on to my plan to walk the Camino de Levante next. As I plan to be in Dublin in September of 2021 to commemorate the 50th anniversary of my graduation at UCD, it will be a challenge to find the time afterwards to walk the 1,400 km Levante. I am a slow walker these days. But, by the time that I am approaching Santiago on the Sanabres, I anticipate that the Holy Year crowd will have thinned out. I shall find a way to complete my travels in the Schengen zone within the three month limit. I am not too worried about financial constraints, because I think that I shall be able to budget for one long camino after a year without one. But any camino plans must be realistically delayed until the pandemic is over and the situation following has clarified.

 

[Dennis White]

Chances are you will need a certificate of vaccination at immigration, at least in the short term.

This was generally referring to international travel, not a direct reference to travelling anywhere internally.

 

[HeidiL]

We were supposed to fly to Spain today. Instead, I'm working this Easter. I hope I will have the chance to use those holidays another year, when we have the vaccine.

 

[Doughnut NZ]

I want to ask a specific question:
Did you have to cancel a camino, if so do you still want to go and plan to go in the near future or postpone it.
Answers could give me some insight in what I may expect.
Thanks for all answers

Yes, I cancelled several Caminos planned for this year.
Yes I still plan to go; once a vaccine is available, I have had the vaccine and the governments of both Spain and New Zealand have advised that it is safe to travel and return to my home country.

 

[Marbe2]

Someone commented that they will probably go back as soon as it is safe and legal to do so. That is a problem... the govs.may allow it...but will it really be Safe? Right now, Sad to say, I do not trust my own Gov! . So I will not be one to baptize the trails when they open up...

 

[gittiharre]

Spain is going through a lot of pain and suffering. It will be important to allow the spanish people to let us know, if and when they are ready to receive pilgrims again and as someone said, what form that may take...crowded forms? Perhaps not...
Even with the vaccine, risks will remain and this won't be the last virus we are seeing.

 

[irishwalker]

I had planned to walk from Burgos to Sahagun, starting April 23rd. It would be my third time to walk that section. I like staying in Albergue Santa Brigida in Hontannas, El Camino in Boadilla del Camino, Albergue Espiritu Santo in Carrion de los Condes and Monasterio de la Santa Cruz in Sahagun. In addition I lile the vastness of the Meseta. Hopefully, next year. I hope the World is in a better place then

 

[Antonius Vaessen]

There won't be caminos next year. I expect the paths and albergues won't reopen until well after vaccinations have commenced.
Many owners of albergues and hotels, restaurants, cafes etc will not have been able to hold on to their businesses and will be closed. I imagine places will gradually reopen, but it will be a very different experience for a while. Many people may not have money available for travel. Airlines will have gone out of business and the skies will be dominated by companies that were bailed out by governments. Who knows, what will happen to prices of air tickets.
The one good thing is, that perhaps the bedbug population has been starved of survival...

How do you know this for sure, your expectations may prove to be true but than again this may not be the case. Opening up the country can revive the economy

 

[alexwalker]

I expect that quite a few albergues will be history by the time things are back to "normal". Municipal albergues will most likely be open again as before. I guess we will need need new and updated guidebooks before setting out? Maybe @wisepilgrim, @ivar or @Rebekah Scott can shed some light on this?

 

[Helen1]

We had planned to walk in March. I think it's very unlikely we'll be going anywhere in 2020 or maybe 2021. I assume (based on no evidence just a guess) that it will take a very long time for countries to lift non-essential travel restrictions between countries because of the potential health risks.

Will we automatically head back to the camino when this is over? I’m not sure. I suspect we’ll be encouraged to do the patriotic thing and holiday at home to support local businesses.

 

[Tassie Kaz]

We've all had plans thrown into disarray, but rather than think about what may/will happen, I'm eternally grateful for what I have already done.
Last year at this time, I walked from London to Rome through 4 countries, at least 3 of which are currently in dire situations (unsure about Switzerland). It was a long & arduous journey but, Schengen issues aside, I took for granted the ease at which I walked freely across/through those countries.
I will never take that for granted again.

We don't know how this will unfold; all we can do now is wait & see...with Plan B, C & D waiting in the wings.
There is no easy path ahead; it's a complicated, multi-layered situation requiring multi-level thought & decisions.
Best wishes to all.

 

[dougfitz]

This is so much bigger than our little camino plans.

Someone commented that they will probably go back as soon as it is safe and legal to do so. That is a problem... the govs.may allow it...but will it really be Safe?

Indeed, and for national governments to lift travel restrictions, they will have made the assessment that they can control the spread of the disease, provide adequate care for both their own citizens and any visitors that start to flow, etc, etc. If you don't think that they have the balance right, it is perfectly reasonable for you to decide not to travel.

I don't think anyone would suggest that you do anything that you don't feel is safe for you in your particular circumstances when it comes to what clearly is an entirely discretionary activity like a pilgrimage. But please, give other people the same respect when they make a different assessment to you about their pilgrimage.

 

[Marbe2]

Indeed, and for national governments to lift travel restrictions, they will have made the assessment that they can control the spread of the disease, provide adequate care for both their own citizens and any visitors that start to flow, etc, etc. If you don't think that they have the balance right, it is perfectly reasonable for you to decide not to travel.
I don't think anyone would suggest that you do anything that you don't feel is safe for you in your particular circumstances when it comes to what clearly is an entirely discretionary activity like a pilgrimage. But please, give other people the same respect when they make a different assessment to you about their pilgrimage.

Doug. No disrespect was indicated in my statement. I was merely pointing out (first person) that it would be problematic for me, not someone else...

 

[Rebekah Scott]

I expect that quite a few albergues will be history by the time things are back to "normal". Municipal albergues will most likely be open again as before. I guess we will need need new and updated guidebooks before setting out? Maybe @wisepilgrim, @ivar or @Rebekah Scott can shed some light on this?

Can't shed much light, but I've been talking to small albergue owners lately on behalf of Peaceable Projects donors who want to help out. Most everybody has savings enough to get through the next couple of months, but after that, if they cannot open and the pilgrims don't arrive? It's going to get rough.
A lot of them are in trouble already, but they're putting a brave face on it.
The B&Bs, hostels, inns, casas rurales, many of them new, highly leveraged, and very dependent on seasonal trade, must meet big mortgage, tax, payroll, and maintenance costs. Other service industries like baggage transfers, tour guides, taxis, massage therapists, and launderettes will likely also perish if this continues through the summer.
The non-profits run by monasteries, associations, and municipalities have a much better chance of surviving, as their overhead is much lower -- volunteer labor, no taxes, no mortgage payment.
So: If this plague does continue, the Camino will perhaps become a much more stripped-down, basic, hardcore non-profit place. Perhaps this virus is a "bonfire of the vanities," burning away all the commodified cheap hiking holiday trappings, even if that means taking out great people and great enterprises.
Maybe the trail will return to its scruffy old self. It's done this before, you know. It knows how.

 

[alexwalker]

Can't shed much light, but I've been talking to small albergue owners lately on behalf of Peaceable Projects donors who want to help out. Most everybody has savings enough to get through the next couple of months, but after that, if they cannot open and the pilgrims don't arrive? It's going to get rough.
A lot of them are in trouble already, but they're putting a brave face on it.
The B&Bs, hostels, inns, casas rurales, many of them new, highly leveraged, and very dependent on seasonal trade, must meet big mortgage, tax, payroll, and maintenance costs. Other service industries like baggage transfers, tour guides, taxis, massage therapists, and launderettes will likely also perish if this continues through the summer.
The non-profits run by monasteries, associations, and municipalities have a much better chance of surviving, as their overhead is much lower -- volunteer labor, no taxes, no mortgage payment.
So: If this plague does continue, the Camino will perhaps become a much more stripped-down, basic, hardcore non-profit place. Perhaps this virus is a "bonfire of the vanities," burning away all the commodified cheap hiking holiday trappings, even if that means taking out great people and great enterprises.
Maybe the trail will return to its scruffy old self. It's done this before, you know. It knows how.

Thank you for your insight. It was close to what I feared. But, maybe something good will come out of this too.

 

[Marbe2]

Can't shed much light, but I've been talking to small albergue owners lately on behalf of Peaceable Projects donors who want to help out. Most everybody has savings enough to get through the next couple of months, but after that, if they cannot open and the pilgrims don't arrive? It's going to get rough.
A lot of them are in trouble already, but they're putting a brave face on it.
The B&Bs, hostels, inns, casas rurales, many of them new, highly leveraged, and very dependent on seasonal trade, must meet big mortgage, tax, payroll, and maintenance costs. Other service industries like baggage transfers, tour guides, taxis, massage therapists, and launderettes will likely also perish if this continues through the summer.
The non-profits run by monasteries, associations, and municipalities have a much better chance of surviving, as their overhead is much lower -- volunteer labor, no taxes, no mortgage payment.
So: If this plague does continue, the Camino will perhaps become a much more stripped-down, basic, hardcore non-profit place. Perhaps this virus is a "bonfire of the vanities," burning away all the commodified cheap hiking holiday trappings, even if that means taking out great people and great enterprises.
Maybe the trail will return to its scruffy old self. It's done this before, you know. It knows how.

Bless you and the work you do sending avery small donation to use as you see fit.

 

[Angela Stewart]

Like many others I had caminoplans in the near future (may from Le Puy en Velay to Irun) I am retired, am for a great deal "master of my own time" so I can start my camino real soon after lock down is over. I don't like crowds, races for beds and so on though. Now I don't know what to expect, will many people who could not go take up their plans as soon as possible? I know that no one can see in the future that is why I want to ask a specific question:
Did you have to cancel a camino, if so do you still want to go and plan to go in the near future or postpone it.
Answers could give me some insight in what I may expect. Next year is holy year, that would lead to much more pilgrims on their way. (I don't know if that will also be the case on the Le Puy route, as this is also walked by walkers who don't walk in the direction of Santiago)
Thanks for all answers

We were meant to arrive in SSPP on April 17th. Our airline has given us until April 30th 2021 to use the credit so, as this European autumn will be too soon and we don’t want to walk a winter camino, we hope to start late April next year, if the all clear is given. The prospect of crowds due to Holy Year combined with a post- coronavirus surge, is concerning but so is the possibility of it never happening if we defer too long!

 

[Spurselona]

I was supposed to start 4 days ago from SJPdP.
Hoping to do my local St. Olavs Way come may instead.
Right now I'm thinking that when it opens up again in France and Spain I will go within a couple of weeks or so after that.

Not trying to be insensitive, but I'm not so sure I agree with the sentiment of Spain and France needing a period to mourn after thing opens up. The world is already in shock and this is something we are all going through together. Spain and France are already mourning (And Italy, and Belgium, and Netherlands and many many, probably most other countries by the time this is over)
WHEN we reach the time governments open up again, I'm thinking people around the world will be desperate for things to go back to normal as soon as possible, including people running albergues. Waiting for months after it is again allowed to travel will only increase the hardship of those depending on pilgrims/tourists is my thinking. So I will go if allowed. With or without a vaccine. I hope for a late fall/winter Camino.
I might ad a tent to the backpack though. Just in case.

 

[JillGat]

Can't shed much light, but I've been talking to small albergue owners lately on behalf of Peaceable Projects donors who want to help out. Most everybody has savings enough to get through the next couple of months, but after that, if they cannot open and the pilgrims don't arrive? It's going to get rough.
A lot of them are in trouble already, but they're putting a brave face on it.
The B&Bs, hostels, inns, casas rurales, many of them new, highly leveraged, and very dependent on seasonal trade, must meet big mortgage, tax, payroll, and maintenance costs. Other service industries like baggage transfers, tour guides, taxis, massage therapists, and launderettes will likely also perish if this continues through the summer.
The non-profits run by monasteries, associations, and municipalities have a much better chance of surviving, as their overhead is much lower -- volunteer labor, no taxes, no mortgage payment.
So: If this plague does continue, the Camino will perhaps become a much more stripped-down, basic, hardcore non-profit place. Perhaps this virus is a "bonfire of the vanities," burning away all the commodified cheap hiking holiday trappings, even if that means taking out great people and great enterprises.
Maybe the trail will return to its scruffy old self. It's done this before, you know. It knows how.

My heart goes out to Spain. Yes, for all the folks and small businesses along the Camino, that I remember and love, but mostly for the lives lost, the families shattered. The numbers are staggering and my thoughts are with you all.

 

[VNwalking]

If we talk about risk, there is personal risk and then there is collective risk.
If we all do what we want without considering the latter, this will go on much longer.
And more people will die: maybe even you, or maybe a loved one.

People living in collective cultures have an easier time right now than those of us in cultures that are individualistic. Because in the case of a pandemic, it's not about me, or you, but us - and the sooner we make that leap the better. Unfortunately many of us have forgotten (or never learned) how to sacrifice our personal desires for the sake of everyone. We've been spoiled rotten for decades.

So it's fine to do what you want, so long as it is 'legal.'
But what if your actions have fatal (or at the very least difficult) consequences for someone else? Do you care?
I assume you would.

 

[Saint Mike II]

Like many others I had caminoplans in the near future (may from Le Puy en Velay to Irun) I am retired, am for a great deal "master of my own time" so I can start my camino real soon after lock down is over. I don't like crowds, races for beds and so on though. Now I don't know what to expect, will many people who could not go take up their plans as soon as possible? I know that no one can see in the future that is why I want to ask a specific question:
Did you have to cancel a camino, if so do you still want to go and plan to go in the near future or postpone it.
Answers could give me some insight in what I may expect. Next year is holy year, that would lead to much more pilgrims on their way. (I don't know if that will also be the case on the Le Puy route, as this is also walked by walkers who don't walk in the direction of Santiago)
Thanks for all answers

Hola Antonius, are you thinking about a resumption in 2020 or sometime early in 2021?? IMHO from the number of deaths being reported daily in Spain I strongly doubt that there will be any resumption this year. As for 2021 well being a "Holy Year" its already going to be almost chaos, if you try to add in "those who missed out in 2020" it will be, again my opinion a disaster (waiting to happen).
As much as I want to walk the Porto with my brother (whilst I am still able) it could be that, for me, that ship has sailed. I agree with the comments about a vaccine - given my circumstances that might be the only way I can contemplate returning to Spain.

 

[VNwalking]

As much as I want to walk the Porto with my brother (whilst I am still able) it could be that, for me, that ship has sailed.

May it not be so, Mike. . .

 

[Saint Mike II]

May it not be so, Mike. . .

Unfortunately I am currently undergoing chemotherapy so I will need a six month "clearance" and a vaccination before I could contemplate travel anywhere outside of my home town. Cheers

 

[wayfarer]

Unfortunately I am currently undergoing chemotherapy so I will need a six month "clearance" and a vaccination before I could contemplate travel anywhere outside of my home town. Cheers

Get well and stay safe Mike.

 

[PJN]

Well we are also retired and walk about 6-10 days a year , always in June.
This year we are flagging it altogether - partly because one of us cones from New Zealand and takes more booking
I think the only factor worth thinking about is - will the auberges actually be open , very keen to get back into operating , or closed for longer just to be sure of no Covid19.
Good luck and keep walking x

 

[Antonius Vaessen]

If we talk about risk, there is personal risk and then there is collective risk.
If we all do what we want without considering the latter, this will go on much longer.
And more people will die: maybe even you, or maybe a loved one.

People living in collective cultures have an easier time right now than those of us in cultures that are individualistic. Because in the case of a pandemic, it's not about me, or you, but us - and the sooner we make that leap the better. Unfortunately many of us have forgotten (or never learned) how to sacrifice our personal desires for the sake of everyone. We've been spoiled rotten for decades.

So it's fine to do what you want, so long as it is 'legal.'
But what if your actions have fatal (or at the very least difficult) consequences for someone else? Do you care?
I assume you would.

The point is that at some time the situation must gradually return to normal. The consequences of the lockdown are immense not only economic but also interhuman. Elderly people staying in homes who cannot receive visitors, grandparnents who cannot see their grandchildren, people who spend their last hours alone and so one. Someone will have to decide when the time has come to loosen the "chains". Hopefully you live in ( or go to a ) a country whose judgement who you can trust. I am from the Netherlands and although I am not a supporter of the parties that are in our administration I do trust them in this ( and trust the governments in Spain, France in this) How you act in the new situation is than up to your own judgement.

 

[Barbara]

If we talk about risk, there is personal risk and then there is collective risk.
If we all do what we want without considering the latter, this will go on much longer.
And more people will die: maybe even you, or maybe a loved one.

People living in collective cultures have an easier time right now than those of us in cultures that are individualistic. Because in the case of a pandemic, it's not about me, or you, but us - and the sooner we make that leap the better. Unfortunately many of us have forgotten (or never learned) how to sacrifice our personal desires for the sake of everyone. We've been spoiled rotten for decades.

So it's fine to do what you want, so long as it is 'legal.'
But what if your actions have fatal (or at the very least difficult) consequences for someone else? Do you care?
I assume you would.

i suggest you read my post again. Carefully. I will use my best judgement.

 

[JohnLloyd]

I was going to walk the Frances again this spring.

As soon as it seems appropriate, safe and helpful to the Camino economy to walk again, I'll be there.

 

[snowwhite1962]

Remember 2021 is a Holy Year so I expect it could be very busy.

 

[David Pettee]

We have with optimism rescheduled our Camino which was to have started this Thursday to late October. We will consider going only if there is no threat that we could be in any way a burden on the health care system, and if it clear that we are being invited back by Spain because life is returning enough to normal. Oh, and if the air carrier we booked our flights on is still in business!

 

[AlexCiccio]

I think the Camino may be quiet for some time until people are fully sure that everything is ok.

Time has to pass before I walk the Camino again.

 

[Marbe2]

Unfortunately I am currently undergoing chemotherapy so I will need a six month "clearance" and a vaccination before I could contemplate travel anywhere outside of my home town. Cheers

Get well soon

 

[Michael-FL]

Like many others I had caminoplans in the near future (may from Le Puy en Velay to Irun) I am retired, am for a great deal "master of my own time" so I can start my camino real soon after lock down is over. I don't like crowds, races for beds and so on though. Now I don't know what to expect, will many people who could not go take up their plans as soon as possible? I know that no one can see in the future that is why I want to ask a specific question:
Did you have to cancel a camino, if so do you still want to go and plan to go in the near future or postpone it.
Answers could give me some insight in what I may expect. Next year is holy year, that would lead to much more pilgrims on their way. (I don't know if that will also be the case on the Le Puy route, as this is also walked by walkers who don't walk in the direction of Santiago)
Thanks for all answers

I was planning to begin at SJPdP on 18 April. I was cancelled. Still waiting on my airfare refund, but not holding my breath. I do plan to go ad doon as we get the “all clear”, but God only knows when that will be.

 

[robert hailwood]

Like many others I had camino plans in the near future (may from Le Puy en Velay to Irun) I am retired, am for a great deal "master of my own time" so I can start my camino real soon after lock down is over. I don't like crowds, races for beds and so on though. Now I don't know what to expect, will many people who could not go take up their plans as soon as possible? I know that no one can see in the future that is why I want to ask a specific question:
Did you have to cancel a camino, if so do you still want to go and plan to go in the near future or postpone it.
Answers could give me some insight in what I may expect. Next year is holy year, that would lead to much more pilgrims on their way. (I don't know if that will also be the case on the Le Puy route, as this is also walked by walkers who don't walk in the direction of Santiago)
Thanks for all answers

I too have the same question. I cancelled my Via de La Plata this April. I have wondered about September but expect it will take a year to get the routes up and running once lock down is relaxed. Different routes will revive at different rates I think. I doubt if the Holy year surge will occur and facilities may be unable to cope as they pick up slowly. I expect April 2022 will be my next opportunity for La Plata. But one can hope for earlier.

 

[Arctic_Alex]

I doubt the Camino will reopen in 2020. This lockdown isn’t going to resolve until there is a treatment or vaccine.

1. I would bet on it being open.
If there is no vaccine by autumn, a huge part of this planet's population will have been in contact with the virus by then anyway. Why? Because it is fast spreading and lockdowns cannot be be upheld for very long as this would destroy the economical existence of a large part of the population causing widespread collapse. Economical collapse also has its pronounced death toll (domestic violence, abuse and suicide rates climbing already now as we speak – one of the better known first victims being the finance minister of the German state of Hesse).
2. Life along the Camino for many of the small businesses will only settle down once the pilgrims return I guess. Opening the country is a prerequisite for things to get back in order, not the other way round I would guess.

 

[kirkie]

Can't shed much light, but I've been talking to small albergue owners lately on behalf of Peaceable Projects donors who want to help out. Most everybody has savings enough to get through the next couple of months, but after that, if they cannot open and the pilgrims don't arrive? It's going to get rough.
A lot of them are in trouble already, but they're putting a brave face on it.
The B&Bs, hostels, inns, casas rurales, many of them new, highly leveraged, and very dependent on seasonal trade, must meet big mortgage, tax, payroll, and maintenance costs. Other service industries like baggage transfers, tour guides, taxis, massage therapists, and launderettes will likely also perish if this continues through the summer.
The non-profits run by monasteries, associations, and municipalities have a much better chance of surviving, as their overhead is much lower -- volunteer labor, no taxes, no mortgage payment.
So: If this plague does continue, the Camino will perhaps become a much more stripped-down, basic, hardcore non-profit place. Perhaps this virus is a "bonfire of the vanities," burning away all the commodified cheap hiking holiday trappings, even if that means taking out great people and great enterprises.
Maybe the trail will return to its scruffy old self. It's done this before, you know. It knows how.

Maybe the trail will return to its scruffy old self. It's done this before, you know. It knows how.
I knew a lovely Irish lady who thought in Irish but spoke in English. Maybe I am making this up, but it fits! She might have replied: You have reason with you. I think you do, Rebekah.

 

[PeteAJ]

Worried this whole year is shot and the return will be gradual. It seems like albergue closings and some new cleanliness routines will be inescapable. I'd be surprised by a sudden rush of returning pilgrims but the Holy Year coming up..

What if normal isn't the same again?

 

[VNwalking]

The point is that at some time the situation must gradually return to normal

Think 'new normal.' Things will go back to some steady state, but it will likely look different than what we had before.

Googled it and came up with this article titled The medieval pilgrimage routes, key to the spread of the Black Death

The plague hit harder with more recurrences in towns along the camino route. This is not the plague, but still - the same dynamic applies. It was people traveling along the camino who were the vectors for those recurrences.
That means us.

In the 1918 flu epidemic, the second wave - the resurgence and recurrence that happened after the initial spike of infections died down - was much more virulent than the first. And, no. This is not the flu, either. But this is definitely a possibility.

"It's my camino" is an attitude worth dropping right now, in favor of thinking of our host communities, and the elders who live there. Whether they be in our own country or not.

 

[kenwilltravel]

My wife and I planned to do the Inglis later this year, as well as volunteer again at the Pilgrim's Office. But all that has been put aside. Reading all these posts made me realize that we will not be able to travel anywhere outside of the U.S. until there is a vaccine or treatment for the virus. Grim thought.

 

[p3nny]

“Maybe we can meet again at the Port Hope service center on the 401 and sip coffee through straws, past our masks and from a 2 meter distance.”
Let me and my mask join you! That is an easy drive from Niagara. Not sure if there’s enough room in my car for my Camino memories and hopes for a fifth one. Lol

 

[Papadragons]

This is a difficult question. I still have plane tickets in May and I'm waiting for the airlines to cancel the flight because I've heard I have more options that way. But they only give you 6 months to reschedule although I'm hoping for a year. Two flights round trip from Seattle were expensive and I would just hate to lose the money. But of course I don't want to put myself or other people at risk. I'm from near Seattle which is one of the epicenters of the virus. So my risk of catching the virus is probably similar in both counties.
But on the other hand financially Spain needs the tourist industry so what to do? ( My friends in Pamplona and Leon are looking forward to my return)

If the airlines cancel the flight, airlines are obligated to refund the money. You just may have to be persistent. The downside is having to wait until it is cancelled.

 

[susanawee]

We are scheduled for SJPDP - Burgos (did first half in 2019) mid September . We have some risk factors and need to travel from Seattle, USA. I’m beginning to wrap my head around that this is not going to happen. I’d like to go in 2021 but don’t enjoy crowds. I’ve heard that most of the Holy Year crowds will be the 2nd half so it may still work for us.

As St.jJames day is 25th July of each year, i would expect that the mid half of the beginning of the year will be the busiest time because, The Feast Day of St.James, is usually a very busy time and, I imagine in a HolyYear, the crowds would be double than in years which are not designated as holy ones.

 

[susanawee]

Unfortunately I am currently undergoing chemotherapy so I will need a six month "clearance" and a vaccination before I could contemplate travel anywhere outside of my home town. Cheers

I am sorry to read that you are presently unwell Saint Mike. Camino blessing and prayers for your recovery.

 

[Arctic_Alex]

Just from a gut feeling I would expect 2021 to be really too busy as it is a
holy year and many who were to do it this year will do it next year ... myself included probably. I fear for the worst ;-)