Five tips for the novice pilgrim

[earnrunner]

Just completed the Camino Frances and thought to share five key insights from my Camino experience with the novice pilgrims:
1. TRAVEL VERY LIGHT. It's better to have less than more; if you'll miss something, you can really buy everything on the way. Every extra gram your are taking, you will carry on your back for about 200 hours of walking. This forum include some very good packing lists so just make sure you are carrying no more than 6-7 kg (to this you'll have to add food and water on the way).
2. EVERYBODY HURTS. SOMETIMES. Be prepared that in one stage or another you are going to experience some serious pains in your legs and might need to slow down or even rest for a day or two. The accumulated distance has its impact and after about 10 days many discover pains in places they didn't know exist. Just except this and try not to worry too much when it happens.
3. IT GET'S COLD. I started the camino in mid-July and used my fleece jacket quite a lot along the way, and also had about 6 days of rain out of my 30 days on the road (but never used my rain coat...). Overall, I spent more time with a long sleeve shirt than with a T-shirt.
4. LEARN SPANISH. Most people you'll meet on the way, both locals and pilgrims, are Spanish (or Italians...) with practically no English. If you want to make friends and communicate your way around, I would recommend some basic Spanish lessons or just to spend 30 days with an audio CD for basic Spanish skills.
5. DON'T PANIC. The camino has been walked by thousands of people for thousands of years. you can do it as well. it's (almost) idiot's proof. Don't spend so much time thinking about it and just come along. It is an experience of lifetime. Enjoy.

Buen Camino everybody!!!

 

[grilly]

Bravo, earnrunner! Your five tips are very good. How did you find them out so fast? It's taking me a life time, or so it seems, to stumble upon them!
Bravo.
Ultreya!

 

[Lydia Gillen]

Excellent advice. I would particularly urge would be pilgrims to learn some spanish. It is so useful and also enriches the whole Camino experience

I have noticed that pilgrims who speak nearly all other languages DO NOt expect the spaniards of Northern Spain to speak their language, but somehow english speakers have an unrealistic expectation that everybody in the world should go to the bother of learning some english to accommodate them on their travels.

 

[Deleted member 3000]

somehow english speakers have an unrealistic expectation that everybody...

I do not expect them to speak English, but I hope they do! Foreign languages do not come easily to some people, particularly late in life. I have always been great at math, and could not understand how others could be befuddled with something that was intuitively obvious. I suppose that translates into an unrealistic expectation that everybody should be good in math. I hope I am not condescending to those who think they are bad at math. That would be terribly unfair of me.

 

[lynnejohn]

There are all kinds of theories regarding literacy and numeracy levels and the ability to learn languages. My husband has a theory that a musical ear helps with learning languages. He absolutely cannot learn languages and is tone deaf.

What do others think of this theory?

Researchers are not unanimous on the answer. Perhaps the easiest way to learn a language is to sing it rather than speak it! It seems to work for opera singers..

http://books.google.ca/books?hl=en&lr=& ... &q&f=false

My apologies for veering slightly off topic, but the ability to learn Spanish often arises here and I find the theories fascinating.

L

 

[andy.d]

Interesting Lynne, although I'm hopeless at music but OK at languages. With language learning, I find some lessons and as much practice and immersion as possible do the trick. And then be as confident as possible.

Andy

 

[annakappa]

My husband has a theory that a musical ear helps with learning languages. He absolutely cannot learn languages and is tone deaf.

What do others think of this theory?

Sorry ... don't agree! I am totally tone deaf (something that I have always regretted, because there is no way that I could even attempt to sing in public), however, I speak fluently Spanish and Italian, passable French and Dutch, enough German to "get by" and some Arabic too. That's apart from English which is my mother tongue. Apart from appalling school French, I have learnt all my languages as an adult. In my case, I have always been extremely interested in languages and communication, however it helped that I followed my hotelier husband around the world and learnt the local language wherever we lived. Anne

 

[JohnnieWalker]

Anyway ( ) the five tips are excellent!

 

[ivar]

Thanks for a great post!

 

[Aldy]

Very good tips! Glad you enjoyed your camino - it's a magical journey!
First time pilgrim this year, going back next year for my second journey!
Cheers from Canada

 

[hannajo]

As a first timer last year I agree with the tips though 6-7 kgs was probably still a bit too heavy for me...I'm a small shortie but cant see how I could have possibly gone with less. Anyway one extra tip from me would be to make sure your weight is evenly distributed. I couldn't work out why I only got blisters on my left foot (the right foot was always perfectly fine) then I wondered if carrying my water bottle always on my left side made a difference and a walking pole on my right side. Maybe it distributed the weight too much onto my left side. Just a thought!

Looking back I am amazed at myself for what I was able to endure an achieve. The joy and wonder of it all is certainly worth the pain. Am hoping to finish my Camino next year.

 

[mikecr]

Excellent tips. I too just completed my first Camino and agree totally with the advice, only thing I would add would be to carry a pair of strapped sandals. I developed a couple of small blisters my first week and switched over to the sandals and socks on the flat parts and my feet loved me for it.
Weight distribution was also a problem for me at first but unsnapping the waist strap from time to time to give my hips a rest was the answer.
I had an incredible experience and already planning my next camino in France next year. Good luck and buen camino to all the novices..you are going to love this experience.

 

[lynnejohn]

Great tips - and good additions too.

These five tips should be on every novice's "must-read" list, as sometimes I think the volume of additional experience and information we add is somewhat overwhelming. This simplifies the whole thing, and should one want more information, it's easy to dig deeper.

Thanks!

Do many people switch between shoes/boots and sandals as mikecr does? Doesn't sound like a bad idea.

 

[sillydoll]

....and No.6 - Don't choose a bed close to the bathroom, its always the noisiest!!

 

[runjean]

Love these tips. I am tossing much from my backpack. Depart LAX Sept. 5 and can't wait!

 

[sillydoll]

In my 330-page planning book 'Your Camino" I have text boxes with 'Things to Know" in each of the 18 chapters as well as cartoon pilgrim characters who give advice throughout the book. Most of the tips on pilgrim, albergue and trail etiquette comes from this forum!

 

[SabsP]

....and No.6 - Don't choose a bed close to the bathroom, its always the noisiest!!

On my Camino I chose those seeing I have a " weak " bladder and I didn't want to disturb roommates when I had to go two or three times a night...

Great tips btw! About musical ear and language skills : not for me , I'm more than tonedeaf but I do think my language skills are pretty ok.

 

[grilly]

There are all kinds of theories regarding literacy and numeracy levels and the ability to learn languages. My husband has a theory that a musical ear helps with learning languages. He absolutely cannot learn languages and is tone deaf.

What do others think of this theory?
L

If you have the time, I suggest that you and your husband watch this TED video:
http://www.ted.com/talks/benjamin_zande ... ssion.html

Conductor Benjamin Zander does not believe in people being tone-deaf ))

claire

 

[lynnejohn]

Thanks for this link, Claire. I found the video very interesting and optimistic!

L

 

[methodist.pilgrim.98]

I swap between sandals and boots all the time and generally have few foot problems.

Tip No. 6. Drink plenty of water or fluid as dehydration leads you into all sorts of problems.

 

[tyrrek]

All excellent advice. I'd emphasise easy-to-dry clothes, especially trousers/shorts that will easily dry overnight.

On language, I felt quite sorry for non-English speakers who used English hoping it would be understood as a universal or 'neutral' language. Although they were making an effort to communicate in another language, on a couple of occasions I saw them treated quite rudely. Maybe their effort isn't always recognised by the person in the cafe/shop etc.

 

[CA_Pilgrim]

Thanks for the tips, they are very helpful. I'm just beginning to plan for a pilgimage in May/June 2012.

I would love to see the contents of a seasoned pimgim's backpack, but since we're worlds apart perhaps we can do a virtual peek. Having advice of what to bring and what not to bring is great, but would some of you be so kind as to list the contents of your typical pack?

Thanks!

 

[tyrrek]

I had a 40l pack walking April-May. I'll list everything I had, but bear in mind I was always wearing some of it (especially the boots!...and trousers.)
5 t-shirts (3 would be fine if you don't mind washing every day, same for boxers and socks)
Shorts
Longer trousers
5 boxers
4 pairs of walking socks
Boots
Sandals
Fleece
Rain jacket
towel
Sun hat
In my side pockets I had my guide book, mini Spanish dictionary, passport, pilgrim passport, camera, mobile phone and charger. In the top were basic toiletries, medicines etc. Back pocket had water platypus. I should have had a sleeping bag stuck on the top of my pack but I accidentally left it in the first hostal I stayed in. I didn't die.

 

[methodist.pilgrim.98]

Hi CA

I have to carry medicine so I wear north face walking trousers that split at the thighs into shorts. I have to wash the seat of my trousers just wear my boxers in the albergue. No one seemed to mind. ie I took no other pair of trousers because I have to reduce my weight for my medicines. It has lots of useful pockets.

One long sleeved shirt polyester-cotton for sun protection.
Two short sleeved shirts. Make sure they are quick drying.
One lightweight Berghaus fleece. Keeps me warm, dries quickly after getting wet.
Berghaus rain jacket.
2 pairs of boxers + 1 pair on.
In December 2010 I took one pair of long thermal trousers, but have not done so before.
2 pairs of walking socks + 1 on.
Walking Sandals.
flip flops to wear in showers and to go to loo at night - if I get a veruca it takes forever to get rid of.
A bottle of concentrated specialist soap which will wash clothes, body, pots and hair. When it runs out I buy the smallest bottle of glycerine liquid soap I can find and use that. You smell of the soap, but so what?
Lightweight Trekking towel.
Spanish phrase book.
Platypus.
Camera charger, though I have also carried a camera that runs off AA batteries which are very easy to obtain on the Camino. Just carry one set of back up batteries.
Toothbrush (not cut in half) and travel tube of paste.
Australian kangeroo skin hat. Protects against the sun and light rain. In heavy rain it leaks, but since I wear my hair short I don't mind. The brim keeps the rain off my glasses and that's all that matters!
One lightweight mug to use when I need to take tablets - I cannot get enough water in my hand to swallow the larger ones! You probably don't need one.

Sleeping bag liner rather than sleeping bag. If you don't know it, learn the Spanish for blanket and if the albergue has none, wear your coat if cold.

I prefer a security pouch to carry around my neck. Passport, spare Sim cards, money, Bank cards, This bag should always be in your sight or on your person.

Mepore surgical pads and tape for blisters, cuts and abrasions. It is what they use on burns patients. It uses glue they use on post its. Very adhesive and yet easy to pull off at the same time. Weird but true. This travels in the hood of my rucksack in a plastic wallet. Also inside are my CSJ guide and and papers I still need for the journey - travel insurance and letter from my hospital with contact details and treatment I am receiving. Any such letter should be translated into Spanish. My pilgrim credential. I carry safety pins instead of pegs for hanging clothes off the washing lines and these live in here.
* CSJ guide to the route I am taking. Once I have got to the bottom of the left hand page I throw the page away.

On a bag carried over my shoulder so it is always to hand:-
My insulin,
One rosary. One small moleskin book to keep journal in. Biro.
Camera.
Sugar filled drink and energy bar
Very tiny camera tripod (useful with the camera timer when no other pilgrim around and you want to be in the shot you are taking)
Small bar of soap (in case none in bars or cafe).
Tiny but powerful LED torch - put in new batteries as you leave home
Nail sissors - not just for nails but for plasters, milk cartons, string etc.
Loo roll - albergues don't have them and you may have to do a No 2 in the fields or woods. Small carrier bag to carry away the paper.
Again, this bag never leaves my sight.

Have seen, but not yet used, a chest pouch that attaches to front of rucksack - looks very useful to me.

It rains on the Camino so I also line my rucksack with a small survival bag.

There is huge debate about mobile phones and other electronic goods. I only carried a mobile for the first time on my 8th pilgrimage because of health issues. Otherwise enough public phones to get by. My Camino was short so I didn't bother with the recharger and only switched the mobile on if no other phone availble to let my wife know where I was staying and tommorow's destination.

If you cannot live without your mobile, i-phone, kindle, laptop or netbook then you must carry them and suffer the consequences of carrying what, in my opinion, are an unecessary burden. There are plenty of threads about this and you must make up your own mind.

falcoln 269 has some Great Advice. If you pack it because you might need it, you don't.

Though vast tracts of the Camino Francés feels a long way from civilisation it is not. It is worth looking at Google earth for that. If you find there is something you can't do without then the chances are you will be able to buy it. Toiletries etc are readilly available. Indeed, in a recent post one pilgrim said she never took them because the albergue usually had a stock of that which other pilgrims left behind.

Check out the thread, miscellaneous-topics/topic11477.html

I sleep in the shirt and clothes I am going to walk in the next day so no PJs.

You should not carry more than 10% of your body weight and 7-8kg is a good figure to aim for, bearing in mind that when you add water to your platypus the weight will go up.

 

[Tia Valeria]

We are currently working on our thoughts for next year re packing (depending on when we walk). Then we'll walk with that weight (approx) for training. Aim is for about 6kg for me and 8kg for Terry including water.

Our rough rule for kit is:-
Wearing; 1pr zip off trousers, underwear, set of socks, T-shirt/vest and long sleeved shirt.

Carrying; 1pr zip off trousers, 2or 3prs underwear, 1 spare full set of socks, extra pr of thin socks, 2 T-shirt vests, 2 long sleeved shirts, 1 thin fleece (300gm), 1 heavier fleece (400gm), and also a pair of Trekmate longjohns each (double as pyjamas). Waterproof trousers and poncho, trek towel, lightweight sleeping bag (no liner), minimal medical kit, small simple mobile phone, mini torch, Swiss card lightweight set - knife, file, scissors etc (68gms), Spork and (me a dress/nightdress (180gms), 'hotel size' soap bar, 100ml shampoo, a good squeeze of toothpaste in a mini pot, travel toothbrush, Crocs, water bottles, paper hankies/mini toilet roll (no cardboard liner).

We decided this year on 2 fleeces after the bitter cold of May 2010 when we had 1 each and had to buy extra fleeces in Spain (weighing 500gms). Everything we have is chosen for its weight, speed of drying and its adaptability/dual purpose. This year was warmer and we finally were carrying both fleeces. For next year we will not take the Spanish fleeces but the combination above saving 200gms. We also usually walk with some Polos in our pockets and start out with a few snackbars in our packs. Our CSJ guide and credencial are in a map pack round the neck. Passport ID etc in a security belt and never left anywhere.

 

[earnrunner]

Wow, thanks for this great discussion; it really nice when people read what you wrote...

As for packing, I think that 2-3 shirts and 2 pants are enough. I had one set of hiking cloth that I washed (almost) every day and one set of evening cloth that I washed far less often, but it still felt very nice...
As for Spanish, I just made cards and learned by heart about 350 words. I had no grammar or anything but quite fast I could utilize these words into a fair conversation.

There are quite many tips you can add but if you got the DON'T PANIC right, this really covers all the rest...

Enjoy!

 

[tyrrek]

Do not panic is the key. All will be well. Very well.

 

[CA_Pilgrim]

To everyone,

A most sincere thank you. This discussion has been most helpful. I have many months to figure this out, but just reading how simple you packing strategies are has aliviated many of my fears.

It reminds me of when I made the decision to run my first half marathon at the age of 50. Prior to that, I had never a recreational mile in my life. I decided not to over think it and just run. Granted the first couple of months could be described as self-abuse, I gradually leared by trial and error and some research what worked for me. Now, over 2,000 miles later, I don't even think about it.

I think I'll take the same approach to the Camino, just start walking and figure it out as I go. I'm going to buy a small back pack fill it with oabout 15-20 pounds of stuff (anything) and just start walking and figure it out as I go. After all, the road to the Camino begins at your front door. I am very fortunate that I live in an area with very similar weather and topagraphy to the Camino (at least from what I can figure out by photos and reading).

Thank you all again for your wonderful support!

 

[grayland]

For those who have not yet purchased a pack....
Do not get a bigger pack than you need. The extra room only allows you to stick in more junk at the last minute.

Most important...compare the weight of the packs. There is a big difference and you can end up carrying an extra pound or two of back pack that you aren't using.

 

[scikowski]

I am very fortunate that I live in an area with very similar weather and topagraphy to the Camino (at least from what I can figure out by photos and reading).

You are right about the topography: it is very similar to California's central coast. Just add in some BIG hills for training!

 

[Olivares]

1. Don't go totally unprepared. Do train some beforehand; i.e. the ellyptical machines type exercise are wonderful training tools during the winter season.

2, COMPEEDs, Vaseline, and Betadine are your friends. Be proactive and used them as prevention. At the first minor hint of discomfort on your feet, STOP and resolve it.

3. Do NOT COMPETE with anybody; it is not a race, not even a bed race. STOP every two hours and take a breather.

4. Bring a camera. Write a daily Journal.

5. Read about the next day's route. Take your time to savor the amazing cultural aspects of this experience. It will soothe your soul.

6. Worry about YOUR own Camino; judging somebody else's Camino is an exercise in futility as you don't know the Camino they come from or the one they are heading out to... Open your mind and let go.

7. You will be amazed of the Camino's healing power--- yes, everybody at some point will be at a level of physical discomfort, even injuries. Take some time and wait it out, just don't quit.

 

[dutchpilgrim]

falcoln 269 has some Great Advice. If you pack it because you might need it, you don't.

Well, there are a few exceptions:

A whistle: if you get into trouble, you will be able to make a lot of noise for a long period
Toilet paper & waste-bag
Medicine-kit (limited, but at least loperamide)

Ultreya,
Carli Di Bortolo

 

[methodist.pilgrim.98]

Greetings Dutch pilgrim.

I did have toilet paper in my list of things carried in a shoulder bag, only I called it loo paper, an English slang term.

My consistent experience on the Camino is that I DO need it at some point of the journey so it is not a might but an essential item.

Thank you, I had forgotten that I always carry a whistle and it is attached to my rucksack by a cord so it cannot be lost.

 

[SisterPearl]

2. EVERYBODY HURTS. SOMETIMES.

Yes, and I would like to add that it's not just physical hurt... At least once, expect to cry. Everybody cries... sometime. The camino has a strange way of stripping us down not only to bare material essentials, but also to our raw emotions. Everyone I met along the Camino, whether they started in St. Jean (like I did) or Sarria, cried at least one time. We cried out of frustration, out of pain, we cried because the emotions we keep so neatly tucked away in our non-Camino lives suddenly had nowhere left to hide. We cried out of sheer joy and gratitude, we cried out of overwhelming emotions that we didn't even know we had, or were capable of feeling. Sometimes, we cried for no apparent reason. I called the Camino 'Mucinex for the soul' (Mucinex is a powerful decongestant here in the USA) because, for me, anyway, it was just the tonic I needed to clean out all kinds of toxic feelings and emotional baggage I had been carrying. The Camino taught me to lighten my physical AND emotional loads.

4. LEARN SPANISH.

[/quote]

Yes, yes, yes. Please do yourself a favor and learn at least the basics! I speak English and Spanish fluently, and found myself acting as a translator at least once a day. Yes, many pilgrims, both native and non-native speakers, know English. But the vast majority of locals you will meet do not speak any English, or have very limited English. Additionally, over half of pilgrims are Spanish, and another huge portion are Italian (yes, if you speak Spanish, you can get by on basics with most Italians, too!). You don't have to be fluent, but you should learn enough to be polite, to order food or drink, to ask where things are (especially the toilet, the bank, the refugio and the Way itself!) and to ask how much something costs. It will save you a lot of trouble in the long run. It also will go a long way with the local people you meet -- I found many to be much more open and helpful when I spoke Spanish than when my fellow pilgrims tried gesturing. Even a simple 'por favor' and 'muchas gracias' from my fellow pilgrims who were not fluent like me garnered genuine smiles in cafes and bars. Take the time -- learning at least some Spanish will be one of the wisest investments you make!

 

[KiwiNomad06]

Recently I came across this quote which I think provides an excellent Camino tip for all of us- newbies and oldies: " In the confrontation between the stream and the rock, the stream always wins - not by strength but by perseverance."~ Bear Grylls
I think 'perseverance' and its companion 'determination' are key things to bring along to the Camino- and they weigh nothing at all in the backpack! Margaret

 

[Abbeydore]

Thanks to for a great post

& 'perseverance' a much under used/valued word :arrow:

 

[glennb]

I got my pack down to about 18 pounds. i'm a strong hiker and climber, and I'll be walking in April when I need a bit more clothing and a sleeping bag. It's in a good-sized daypack, not a backpacking pack. If I were walking in midsummer, I think I could do it with 12-13 pounds.

A common mistake is to carry duplicative clothing. You don't need two pairs of pants. Another common mistake is to forget that this isn't the wilderness. Spain has toothpaste, sun screen, clothing stores, etc.

I was a bit puzzled by the big backpacks in The Way. Do people really carry such bulk, or was that just a Hollywood thing?

 

[Stephen Nicholls]

A common mistake is to carry duplicative clothing. You don't need two pairs of pants.

If you're from the USA where 'pants' means 'trousers' to Brits, then I'd strongly recommend taking a pair of shorts, and a pair of long but light-weight trousers. That's what I took last year in April. I needed them when my legs became badly sun-burned. I'll be taking them in May on the Via de la Plata. They may also be useful in rain to prevent water going in your boots!
Buen camino!
Stephen.
http://www.calig.co.uk/camino_de_santiago.htm

 

[rubyslippers]

All excellent advice. I'd emphasise easy-to-dry clothes, especially trousers/shorts that will easily dry overnight.

On language, I felt quite sorry for non-English speakers who used English hoping it would be understood as a universal or 'neutral' language. Although they were making an effort to communicate in another language, on a couple of occasions I saw them treated quite rudely. Maybe their effort isn't always recognised by the person in the cafe/shop etc.

I saw that too, but mainly in the Castilian area. In the Basque region and in Galathia I found people much more accepting of ANY language. I'm an English speaker and only English. It's one of my biggest regrets. I made an effort using Mexican Spanish that I've used for years and the Castilian's thumbed their noses.

I'm a flight attendant and I see the struggle with language every day. Viva le Difference!

 

[bromeliad]

I believe 2 pairs of pants/trousers are essential. They get dirty. You need to wash them. What are you supposed to wear while they are drying in the clothesline (most albergues don't have a drier)? Also, it's nice to arrive at your daily destination, have a shower and then put on a nice, dry, fresh pair of trousers, instead of the sweaty, dirty, stinky one you walked in all day.

I take 2 pairs of identical, very lightweight pants with zip-off legs, one on my size and another one size bigger. If it's cold I wear both of them, the larger one on top. So I have the equivalent of 2 pairs of pants, 2 pairs of shorts and 1 pair of warm pants for a total of 500 gr, of which I will be carrying only 250 gr at any given time.

To keep your pant legs clean, just take a couple of rubber bands and wrap them around your ankles to prevent the pant legs from flapping in the mud. Besides, if your pants have zip-off legs, it's easy to remove the legs and wash only those if they get muddy.

 

[Charleston Tom]

The importance of footwear suitable for a wide variety of walking conditions can not be overstated. I started out in a pair of trail shoes that have very soft/flexible soles. They did not provide adequate protection in rocky sections of the Camino. The resulting foot pain was quite severe. Fortunately, I was able to buy a much more appropriate pair of trekking shoes in Sarria.

 

[zzotte]

Thanks for sharing, great post

Zo

 

[Gailsie]

One piece of advice that I used during my camino was to turn around once in awhile to see where you have been. It seemed so many times that I thought that I still had so many more kms to go. But when I turned around, I could see that I really had walked a good ways already. Also the view behind me was often spectacular. It also makes you slow down and take in your surroundings.

 

[mspath]

As a novice pilgrim you may be wondering if you could follow the Camino. Could you endure walking every day, carrying a full pack and staying with a group of strangers in albergues each night?

After seven caminos here are my basic tips which may help you formulate your answers.

1 This is NOT a walk in the park! Just because so many pilgrims have been successful does not guarantee everyone will be. Anybody any moment can fall or pull or break anything. The most common injury is the result of trying to walk too far too quickly carrying too much! Easy does it. Be a snail; slow but, determined.

2 To get an idea of how it feels to walk for a day with a loaded backpack carry 6 kilos or 13 pounds of potatoes continually for at least six hours around the house rarely sitting down.

3 Do bugs, dust, dirt, mud, rain or snow bother you? Can you pee in the woods? If you need a sanitized toilet seat and/or spotless surroundings this is definitely NOT your thing!

4 Can you share a dorm with others and/or sleep next to a stranger? Do you tolerate snoring? Or do you snore? What about smelly socks, garlic breath or worse?

5 Do you need hot water for a shower? Can you balance soap, shampoo, and sponge in one hand while trying to regulate water temperature and/or flow with the other? When done can you put your clean clothes on while balancing on one leg to avoid puddles on the floor?

6 Can you be up, dressed, packed and walking by 8am in summer or dawn in winter? Such are the rules for using municipal albergues.

7 Can you accept that nothing you carry on the Camino is ever truly clean or dry or tidy? Reality is a gradation of grey and damp and mess! Nevertheless that's life.

8 Do you meet people easily? Can you chat and share ideas, food, or help? Are you ready to smile and offer your hand in friendship? A smile returned by a new friend is one of the Camino's many joys. Just try it!

...
What matters is to DO IT!

As pilgrims said in the Middle Ages Ultreia!

Margaret

 

[texastrekker]

but if you stay in hotels/pensions/B&B and not alberques could you eliminate these concerns???


i just read a post concerning alberques that some/many were like homeless shelters?????? YIKES!


4 Can you share a dorm with others and/or sleep next to a stranger? Do you tolerate snoring? Or do you snore? What about smelly socks, garlic breath or worse?

5 Do you need hot water for a shower? Can you balance soap, shampoo, and sponge in one hand while trying to regulate water temperature and/or flow with the other? When done can you put your clean clothes on while balancing on one leg to avoid puddles on the floor?

6 Can you be up, dressed, packed and walking by 8am in summer or dawn in winter? Such are the rules for using municipal albergues.

 

[Deleted member 3000]

i just read a post concerning alberques that some/many were like homeless shelters?

The simile is exaggerated, but you may have 120 roommates! You will NEVER have a private room, but in quieter times of the year, you may be alone in a dormitory.

 

[BlackDog]

One piece of advice that I used during my camino was to turn around once in awhile to see where you have been.

A brilliant idea We probably focus too much on the path ahead!

 

[rubyslippers]

this is a great post. I wanted to take a quick moment to add a comment about "language".

Those of you who live in Europe do much better speaking multiple languages than Americans. Having said that I grew up in the middle of WYoming (state) in the USA and had no language training. I've tried many times to take classes and the older I get the more difficult it is. I tried during my first Camino to speak Spanish when ever I could- I appreciated it so much when someone was patient enough with me to accomplish the task. I found that in the Basque region and in Galacia it was much easier to find that patient Spaniard. In the central area, the Castilians who speak the Franconian Spanish were often rude (even to the Mexicans who tried to speak the language.) Many times in a group setting the person giving information would ask who spoke which language. Then they usually gave the talk in English. I sure appreciated it, but did NOT expect it. I think sometimes the world resents the fact that English is the language that many speak in common. I would only ask that if you encounter an English only speaker, please don't assume that they EXPECT any special treatment. I envy those of you who are multiple language speakers. My own children are world travelers and the oldest girl speaks 6. I love language and in my profession as a flight attendant for a global carrier I have always enjoyed the music in my ear of many languages. Communication is so much more than words, however, and I have always found that the desire to communicate is everything. I look forward to my next Camino this coming September and have been listening to my Spanish CDs for years now. We'll see if this old dog has learned any new tricks. :wink:

 

[JohnnieWalker]

I just read a post concerning alberques that some/many were like homeless shelters??????

Interesting observation. Nowadays shelters for homeless people strive to provide accommodation which promotes the dignity and privacy of individuals. Therefore the best practice is to provide sleeping cubicles or partitioned spaces with single beds and separate accommodation for males and females.

I asked the CSJ about this and their reply was that the dormitory, mixed sex, accommodation they provide in their albergues is intended to reflect the way medieval pilgrims were accommodated. I didn't have the heart to mention electricity, toilets, plumbing and hot showers.

I suspect the provision of mixed sex, dormitory accommodation with double or triple bunk beds is more to do with economics than history .

 

[Deleted member 3000]

Those of you who live in Europe do much better speaking multiple languages than Americans.

That is a very gracious thing to say, but it is at variance with my experience and the facts! There are very few in rural France that speak anything but French. You will have a difficult time finding a Spaniard who speaks anything but Spanish. Even the school children out on the pilgrimage will know only a little bit of written English or other European language. Pilgrims, particularly from Germany, Denmark, Switzerland, and the Netherlands, often speak several languages, from which the conclusion can be reached that all of Europe speaks lots of languages. Great Britain is in Europe, and the pilgrims I have encountered who are more language impaired than I, were all from Great Britain!

Pilgrims should expect to navigate in Spanish. If you can find a multi-lingual European for a translator, you will be very grateful. But all your English conversations will be with fellow pilgrims who speak English. Do not expect anyone in Spain to converse in English.

 

[rubyslippers]

Those of you who live in Europe do much better speaking multiple languages than Americans.

That is a very gracious thing to say, but it is at variance with my experience and the facts! There are very few in rural France that speak anything but French. You will have a difficult time finding a Spaniard who speaks anything but Spanish. Even the school children out on the pilgrimage will know only a little bit of written English or other European language. Pilgrims, particularly from Germany, Denmark, Switzerland, and the Netherlands, often speak several languages, from which the conclusion can be reached that all of Europe speaks lots of languages. Great Britain is in Europe, and the pilgrims I have encountered who are more language impaired than I, were all from Great Britain!

Pilgrims should expect to navigate in Spanish. If you can find a multi-lingual European for a translator, you will be very grateful. But all your English conversations will be with fellow pilgrims who speak English. Do not expect anyone in Spain to converse in English.

I guess I was confusing - sorry - I agree with you. I was so impressed with those from the very countries you mentioned Germany, Denmark, Switzerland etc. I traveled to Peru for two weeks in Nov and found the same thing to be true. Those on holiday in south america from these countries spoke many languages, of course Spanish was the one spoken in Peru. I found the other Pilgrims in Spain were ready to practice their English on me. The local Spaniards did speak their own language. That was true when I traveled in China also. Even the areas within China can't speak with each other. (so many dialects) The only country I find that almost always speaks English is Japan. Thanks for clarifying this for me. I'm told by my good friends from Scotland that it is not always easy to understand the different kinds of English you hear spoken here in America. :lol:

 

[vagabondette]

I'm told by my good friends from Scotland that it is not always easy to understand the different kinds of English you hear spoken here in America. :lol:

This cracks me up because for me, one of the hardest accents to understand is the Scottish one.

But every country has its accents and dialects. Here in Mexico, each of the 32 states has its own accent and version of Spanish and within those states are many local dialects (a couple thousand throughout the country). You just have to do what you can. Some friends recently went to a village about 2 hours outside the city where I live. Their spanish is crap but it didn't matter because no one there spoke spanish anyway. They all spoke Totzil a local Mayan dialect. Even with no common language they had a great time, were able to communicate through smiles and signs and all was well. You just have to be patient.

When I travel, I always memorize a list of the "nice words" of the local language and even if I know nothing else, those and a smile have gotten me far because it shows to the locals that I have at least made an effort to learn how to communicate even if one of the few things I can say is "I'm sorry, I don't speak x".

 

[tyrrek]

I'm told by my good friends from Scotland that it is not always easy to understand the different kinds of English you hear spoken here in America. :lol:

Probably easier than the different kinds of English you hear spoken in Scotland! (I say that as a Scot myself.)

I didn't really notice much difference between the attitude of people in different regions of Spain. I think it depends more on the individual you encounter. I've heard stories about people in Catalonia particularly being treated rudely for speaking Castillian, but they tend to be Spanish. Any effort by foreigners to speak either Castillian or the regional language tends to be appreciated.

Buen Camino!

 

[Douglas A]

I've also just finished my first Camino from Astorga to SDC, I found your tips very good and informative especially what to carry. I'd cut down on the amount of clothing, I carried three fast drying T-shirts, underwear and socks, these may be cut by one, I had two shorts with zip on legs and this was enough, I washed these once in the 15 days I walked, the shirts,underwear and socks I washed every day. I'd take an I phone or similar,instead of the I Pod, camera,telephone and Kindle (with its respective chargers). I used the Ipod for music and the telephone to call the next town to confirm my reservation. I'm 71 and my wife did not let me stay in alberges claiming that I need a comfortable bed and shower, and you know, I'm grateful for it. More expensive, true, but what the hell I'm 71.
I'm running out of time to walk again but I'd certainly would like to.

I'd keep each stage at about 20/25 kilometers, about 5/6 hours walk. I had made some too short 16/17 Kms, but this was not necessary.

Buen camino.

 

[Melbrob]

Douglas,
Thanks for the useful tips for the 'mature' pilgrim. I am training for the walk from SJDP next April and I have just reached 71. This will be the first time in the last 50 years that I have planned 8 weeks on my own with no responsibilities acting as 'mental baggage', just the 8kg on my back. I am looking forward to some soul time.
Any special advice for the mature walker?
Rob @ Melbourne

 

[tyrrek]

Any special advice for the mature walker?
Rob @ Melbourne

From my experience, some of the more 'mature walkers' seemed to turn into kids again! I met quite a few people who had just retired or sold up their business and they seemed to regress to childhood! Swiss people were particularly afflicted. Be prepared! :lol: Buen Camino!

 

[Richo]

Anyway ( ) the five tips are excellent!

Hey JW:
"Nunca se camina solo" Do you mean: one should never walk alone, or that one is never alone when one walks???

cheers,
Richo.

 

[cecelia]

Douglas,
Any special advice for the mature walker?
Rob @ Melbourne

Hi Rob,
My best advice after trusting what you know about your own body for decisions about shoes/boots, clothes etc. is just to take it easy and enjoy the experience as it comes. You've given yourself lots of time so take it. Don't get caught up in the rush for beds. Don't hurry to keep up with a new friend. There will be many faster than you and some slower. Honour your own pace. Stop and take your boots off two or three times a day and catnap if you feel like it.
And I agree with others above - learn a few words of Spanish - if only hello, please and thank you.
The camino is not like climbing Mt. Everest (not that I've done that!). The camino is about endurance. At our age (I've walked 4 caminos in my 60's) we take it slowly - walk like the proverbial turtle- but we make it because we've learned to keep on keeping on. From now until you leave keep building that endurance but don't wear yourself out.
It is truly glorious to give this gift to yourself! Buen camino.

 

[cecilie@thewolery]

Hello,
I am about to set out on my second Camino, walking from Le Puy this time, for about a week. My top tip would be LAVENDER essential oil. I used it a lot last time, and shared it of course. It is good for so many things, bites, blisters, burns, massage into sore feet, relaxing, can be sprayed on your bed for bed bugs.....
Buen Camino!!
XX c

 

[Jim Britton]

I may need some help with number 4? I am married to Spaniard for 33 years and the only words that I understand is when she is mad at me. Your idea for the audio CD of basic Spanish sounds good. Can any one recommendation’s?

 

[andarilho]

Excellent advice all round, thank you. I think the postings for this subject would make a great book - the collective wisdom of I wonder how many thousands of kilometers of walking the Camino!
Buen Camino y hasta luego!

 

[KiwiNomad06]

Hello, My top tip would be LAVENDER essential oil. I used it a lot last time, and shared it of course. XX c

Not too much I hope Cecile- I end up sneezing with the smell of lavender oil!

I hope your Le Puy walk went well.
Margaret

 

[Jubilado]

Recently I came across this quote which I think provides an excellent Camino tip for all of us- newbies and oldies: " In the confrontation between the stream and the rock, the stream always wins - not by strength but by perseverance."~ Bear Grylls

Careful there: Bear Grylls was caught in an expensive hotel when he claimed he was out in the wilds fending off wild animals! Yes he persevered all right - straight into reception! :wink:

"Don't follow leaders, watch your parking meters".

 

[daesdaemar]

I agree - earnrunner's tips are great. I know from personal experience!

 

[Susan hopes]

There are all kinds of theories regarding literacy and numeracy levels and the ability to learn languages. My husband has a theory that a musical ear helps with learning languages. He absolutely cannot learn languages and is tone deaf.

What do others think of this theory?

Researchers are not unanimous on the answer. Perhaps the easiest way to learn a language is to sing it rather than speak it! It seems to work for opera singers..

http://books.google.ca/books?hl=en&lr=& ... &q&f=false

My apologies for veering slightly off topic, but the ability to learn Spanish often arises here and I find the theories fascinating.

L

I have found this to be absolutely true. I can barely read Hebrew and struggle to speak it. However, I belong to a Jewish choir and can sing anything once I hear it a couple times. Singing it ... what a wonderful idea!

 

[TerryB]

I didn't really notice much difference between the attitude of people in different regions of Spain. I think it depends more on the individual you encounter. I've heard stories about people in Catalonia particularly being treated rudely for speaking Castillian, but they tend to be Spanish. Any effort by foreigners to speak either Castillian or the regional language tends to be appreciated.

If you want to use "Mexican Spanish" the best province to visit would be Asturias. Along the north coast of Spain are lots of examples of Los Casas de Los Indianos. These were built by those who emigrated to South America, made their money and came back home! Our "Castillano" was learnt in Argentina and is very similar to the usual language along the Camino del Norte! We have never had our pronunciation scorned or made fun of. We had to learn a few new words - "zumo" for example, but that is from the Arabic anyway.
Don't worry too much about getting it exactly right! A few words in their language will work wonders. It is, after all, the language of the heart that counts.

Blessings for Christmas
Tio Tel

 

[whariwharangi]

Leave only footprints.

Keep all trash till you get to an albergue or other regularly serviced garbage bin; the rest stops don't appear to get regularly serviced and the garbage containers overflow.

Don't leave junk at places like Cruz de Ferro. (leave only rocks) Try to remember that your precious sentimental item is going to be an eyesore for the other 200000 visitors this year.

Your blown-out boot does not enhance the trail monument at all.

 

[pmw]

This is excellent - succinct and absolutely all that needs to be said - especially number 5! buen Camino!

Just completed the Camino Frances and thought to share five key insights from my Camino experience with the novice pilgrims:
1. TRAVEL VERY LIGHT. It's better to have less than more; if you'll miss something, you can really buy everything on the way. Every extra gram your are taking, you will carry on your back for about 200 hours of walking. This forum include some very good packing lists so just make sure you are carrying no more than 6-7 kg (to this you'll have to add food and water on the way).
2. EVERYBODY HURTS. SOMETIMES. Be prepared that in one stage or another you are going to experience some serious pains in your legs and might need to slow down or even rest for a day or two. The accumulated distance has its impact and after about 10 days many discover pains in places they didn't know exist. Just except this and try not to worry too much when it happens.
3. IT GET'S COLD. I started the camino in mid-July and used my fleece jacket quite a lot along the way, and also had about 6 days of rain out of my 30 days on the road (but never used my rain coat...). Overall, I spent more time with a long sleeve shirt than with a T-shirt.
4. LEARN SPANISH. Most people you'll meet on the way, both locals and pilgrims, are Spanish (or Italians...) with practically no English. If you want to make friends and communicate your way around, I would recommend some basic Spanish lessons or just to spend 30 days with an audio CD for basic Spanish skills.
5. DON'T PANIC. The camino has been walked by thousands of people for thousands of years. you can do it as well. it's (almost) idiot's proof. Don't spend so much time thinking about it and just come along. It is an experience of lifetime. Enjoy.

Buen Camino everybody!!!

 

[Stacy08]

I agree heartily about the old boots. Symbolic joke the first few times, just littering the next million. A lot of terrific tips on this thread already so I won't rehash them. But I would suggest a Camino book I read after I finished my Camino, wish I had read it ahead of time. Gave great insight into the experience and was entertaining while passing along a lot of useful information. It is called Behind the Albergue Door and I think it is listed in the Camino Resources section of this forum. The most important thing, though, is that everyone walks their own Camino and there are no right or wrong way to do things. A few things that make it easier, though.

 

[Deleted member 3000]

wish I had read it ahead of time

I am not sure it was written at the time you walked! You are prepared for your next one, though.

 

[Olivia Luna]

Excellent advice all round, thank you. I think the postings for this subject would make a great book - the collective wisdom of I wonder how many thousands of kilometers of walking the Camino!
Buen Camino y hasta luego!

That is a great idea...Ivar, go for it

 

[Olivia Luna]

Hi Rob,
My best advice after trusting what you know about your own body for decisions about shoes/boots, clothes etc. is just to take it easy and enjoy the experience as it comes. You've given yourself lots of time so take it. Don't get caught up in the rush for beds. Don't hurry to keep up with a new friend. There will be many faster than you and some slower. Honour your own pace. Stop and take your boots off two or three times a day and catnap if you feel like it.
And I agree with others above - learn a few words of Spanish - if only hello, please and thank you.
The camino is not like climbing Mt. Everest (not that I've done that!). The camino is about endurance. At our age (I've walked 4 caminos in my 60's) we take it slowly - walk like the proverbial turtle- but we make it because we've learned to keep on keeping on. From now until you leave keep building that endurance but don't wear yourself out.
It is truly glorious to give this gift to yourself! Buen camino.

Thank, you made my day!

 

[lettinggo]

Hola

I found Paulo Coelho's 'The Pilgrimage' in a bookstore in Santiago and read it for the first time on my way home on the plane. I can recommend it (to read it on your way back..)

Buen camino,
Lettinggo

 

[stefano69]

Just completed the Camino Frances and thought to share five key insights from my Camino experience with the novice pilgrims:
1. TRAVEL VERY LIGHT. It's better to have less than more; if you'll miss something, you can really buy everything on the way. Every extra gram your are taking, you will carry on your back for about 200 hours of walking. This forum include some very good packing lists so just make sure you are carrying no more than 6-7 kg (to this you'll have to add food and water on the way).
2. EVERYBODY HURTS. SOMETIMES. Be prepared that in one stage or another you are going to experience some serious pains in your legs and might need to slow down or even rest for a day or two. The accumulated distance has its impact and after about 10 days many discover pains in places they didn't know exist. Just except this and try not to worry too much when it happens.
3. IT GET'S COLD. I started the camino in mid-July and used my fleece jacket quite a lot along the way, and also had about 6 days of rain out of my 30 days on the road (but never used my rain coat...). Overall, I spent more time with a long sleeve shirt than with a T-shirt.
4. LEARN SPANISH. Most people you'll meet on the way, both locals and pilgrims, are Spanish (or Italians...) with practically no English. If you want to make friends and communicate your way around, I would recommend some basic Spanish lessons or just to spend 30 days with an audio CD for basic Spanish skills.
5. DON'T PANIC. The camino has been walked by thousands of people for thousands of years. you can do it as well. it's (almost) idiot's proof. Don't spend so much time thinking about it and just come along. It is an experience of lifetime. Enjoy.

Buen Camino everybody!!!

Totally agree! BUT...
4. LEARN SPANISH. Yeah, sometimes some American effort in comunication is welcome here in non-engl. Europe! If we meet I could help you... some Italian speaks some eng, french, spanish too...

 

[thetravellingpen]

Recently I came across this quote which I think provides an excellent Camino tip for all of us- newbies and oldies: " In the confrontation between the stream and the rock, the stream always wins - not by strength but by perseverance."~ Bear Grylls
I think 'perseverance' and its companion 'determination' are key things to bring along to the Camino- and they weigh nothing at all in the backpack! Margaret

Ooh, I'd like to pack Bear Grylls in my pack! Now he would come in handy ;-)

 

[thetravellingpen]

Surprised to hear you were cold on a Mid July camino? Everybody say's how hot it is then. I'm leaving 10 July 2014... have a lightweight fleece and a wind breaker...hope that's enough. I HATE being cold, hence why I moved to Thailand!

 

[MaxfromMO]

One piece of advice that I used during my camino was to turn around once in awhile to see where you have been. It seemed so many times that I thought that I still had so many more kms to go. But when I turned around, I could see that I really had walked a good ways already. Also the view behind me was often spectacular. It also makes you slow down and take in your surroundings.

Not only do you see how much you have walked, sometimes you see things you can't see while going forward. There were a couple of times we turned around and saw things that had been hidden by trees in our forward sightline!!

 

[domigee]

Surprised to hear you were cold on a Mid July camino? Everybody say's how hot it is then. I'm leaving 10 July 2014... have a lightweight fleece and a wind breaker...hope that's enough. I HATE being cold, hence why I moved to Thailand!

July/August 2012 were unusually very hot months for that part of Spain (39 deg) and yet walking from Rabanal we were VERY cold and there was a fierce wind too. The cafe where we stopped later said 4 deg. I really wished I'd had a hoodie or woolly hat. Now I take a light weight buff that can serve that purpose. (Of course I hardly used it last year as the temperatures were much more 'normal' !!)

 

[KiwiNomad06]

Surprised to hear you were cold on a Mid July camino? Everybody say's how hot it is then. I'm leaving 10 July 2014... have a lightweight fleece and a wind breaker...hope that's enough. I HATE being cold, hence why I moved to Thailand!

If you look at an altitude chart for the Camino Frances you will see there are several places where you are walking at 1200m or higher. The climb above Rabanal and past Foncebadon takes you to this kind of altitude, where the plants are quite beautiful and definitely alpine. In such alpine areas you might strike cold weather any time of the year.
Margaret

 

[shefollowsshells]

[I was a bit puzzled by the big backpacks in The Way. Do people really carry such bulk, or was that just a Hollywood thing?[/quote]

It was a MOVIE...done by people who admit they did not walk the way, I feel safe to say "it was a Hollywood thing". To think otherwise would be like trying to set up a crash cart for CPR in an Emergency Room based on the set of the TV show ER ??????... in my opinion 18 pounds is pretty heavy, I don't think most even carry that much ...glad a "daypack" holds that for such an extended amount of time, I need a pack with a frame for way less than that amount.

 

[emonty]

shefollowsshells
I bought me.pack several years ago. Now there are much lighter ones. Mine will tip the scale at about 21 lbs (with water) thanks to a cpap I really need to bring. That said, the heaviest things in my pack.are not my clothes; it's the little medicinal things, etc. I'm 6 ft, and hefty, so 21 lbs should be OK. I thought about buying a lighter pack but my budget is tight. Truthfully, the pack I have fits so well it seems much lighter. I understand the concern about weight, but fit matters too. I have other packs that seem like too much with 10 pounds in them. If you read all the suggestions I think you'd be naked except for a poncho, and I am just not that weight sensitive. What I notice in the movie is no hats, mostly, and Martin Sheen is always clean shaven. I will be the scruffy, unshaven one in the hat!

 

[shefollowsshells]

For those who have not yet purchased a pack....
Do not get a bigger pack than you need.

I didn't take a bigger bag than I needed...BUT thank goodness no one saw me on a bridge in Ponferedda when a huge caravan of folks were selling hats, scarves, watches and used clothes. I picked up a wool sweater that said, "made in Italy" for 3 euros I forced it into my backpack (never removing it till home)...
The night before I got to Finesterre I stayed at a wonderful B&B type place, owned by a lovely couple, they had a heart shaped rock on their patio and I wished that I could find such a rock. On my last day from Finesterre to Muxia I saw a large rock in the shape of a heart, it was my last day...and I picked it up and put it in my pack. I kept telling everyone it was 14 pounds, when I got home and weighed it it was only 5 pounds. I treasure that rock (and my Italian sweater). I would not advise anyone to do this though

 

[Dzyduck87]

I do not expect them to speak English, but I hope they do! Foreign languages do not come easily to some people, particularly late in life. I have always been great at math, and could not understand how others could be befuddled with something that was intuitively obvious. I suppose that translates into an unrealistic expectation that everybody should be good in math. I hope I am not condescending to those who think they are bad at math. That would be terribly unfair of me.

You do realize that to them English is a foreign language, so your reason for wanting THEM to do it is the same reason that they may not have, lol, you're in ellos casa

 

[RoryGentry]

I have noticed that pilgrims who speak nearly all other languages DO NOt expect the spaniards of Northern Spain to speak their language, but somehow english speakers have an unrealistic expectation that everybody in the world should go to the bother of learning some english to accommodate them on their travels.

That's probably because English is a business language, and many countries require kids to learn English as a second language in school. Right or wrong, it's not really that unrealistic of an expectation to think that people who cater to tourists for a living will know some English.