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LIVE from the Camino SNCF, St Jean and a silver lining

Bradypus

Migratory hermit
Time of past OR future Camino
Too many and too often!
There have been quite a few posts recently about overcrowding in the early stages of the Frances. This evening this problem extended as far back as Bayonne station. I was one of 15 passengers removed from the last train of the day before departure because numbers far exceeded capacity - even with many sitting on the floor in the areas near the carriage doors. In fairness to SNCF I should point out that it was done very politely, with clear explanations and apologies and an assurance that alternative transport would be found. In fact a fleet of four taxis were very promptly hired by SNCF and delivered us to St Jean only a few minutes after the train's arrival time.

Walking up Rue de la Citadelle I saw several "complet" signs and a significant number of rucksack-toting hopefuls zig-zagging between albergues. So I was delighted to be remembered and warmly welcomed back to Beilari and splendidly fed and housed for the night. The second time I have arrived here by taxi - the last occasion being the day I fell and suffered a prolapsed spinal disc :-( Nice to arrive in style - however unexpectedly - while still fit enough to enjoy it :)
 
3rd Edition. More content, training & pack guides avoid common mistakes, bed bugs etc
Wow. I have never heard of a similar situation in Bayonne. And kudos for the SNCF; it made both the responsible and the right thing.
I hope you can walk to Roncesvalles without more incidents than tiredness and sore feet:)
Buen camino!
 
I caught train from Bayonne on Monday at 11am and there seemed to be plenty of seats ..... Some locals ... Some pilgrims .... I didn't count but did not seem to be hoards ....

Anne
 
Get a spanish phone number with Airalo. eSim, so no physical SIM card. Easy to use app to add more funds if needed.
The first edition came out in 2003 and has become the go-to-guide for many pilgrims over the years. It is shipping with a Pilgrim Passport (Credential) from the cathedral in Santiago de Compostela.
How is it so far Annie ?
 

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