What would you tell a new pilgrim NOT to do ?

[howardd5]

Talking to someone who was planning to walk a Camino the other day and the topic came up , what definitely not to do while cross Spain ? 1- don’t go too far in a day . It’s easy to see on the map where you want to go , but weather , trail conditions , and your health can make it non practical. 2- don’t go past your limits trying to keep up with other pilgrims , they may be cool & fun but don’t ruin your day & next day. Clint Eastwood “a man’s gotta’ know his limitations “. 3 - make sure you eat & drink enough. Eat even power bars during the day if you don’t find a cafe and drink water every hour even if you’re not thirsty . any other ideas out there? Oh yes don’t get drunk, for lots of reasons—

 

[K_Lynn]

Don't litter. Don't pick fruit from orchards. Don't stomp into the field of sunflowers for the perfect Instagram photo. Don't pick seed out of sunflowers to create smiley faces or arrows. Don't make a ton of noise leaving an albergue in the morning. Don't make a ton of noise walking through town early in the morning.

 

[Tincatinker]

Not a don’t but a do: do as you would be done by

 

[Vacajoe]

Overall, don’t overpack, over worry, overall, over plan, over think, or over do it.

 

[MickMac]

Enjoy every second, enjoy your walk, enjoy your companions,enjoy the beauty of it all, it's an amazing adventure echoing life, Hardship Fatigue, Happiness, Sadness, .
Buen Camino

 

[SabsP]

Do not talk/ shout in your local language ( = not Spanish ) to Spaniards and expect them to understand you.
Try to learn some basic Spanish words. If this is not possible, at least be polite. Always be polite.

Do not poke that selfiestick in someone's eye.

Do not expext that every local priest at Mass understands it when you cross your arms over your chest when you do not want to receive Communion but you stand in line nevertheless. Keep sitting and wait till the general blessing at the end of service.

 

[trecile]

Don't plan your schedule too tightly - allow yourself several days (I recommend 5 - 7 ) as a cushion. During a month or more of walking there are things that are bound to throw you off any planned schedule, such as illness, injury, or just a desire to spend more time in a certain town or region. If you haven't used those days when you get to Santiago use them to go to Finisterre and/or Muxía or explore another part of Spain.

And don't book a flight home for the day after you arrive in Santiago. You have taken quite a bit of time to walk there, spend some time in the city to relax and enjoy yourself.

 

[Robo]

Don't take any expectations with you...

 

[RJM]

Don't be overly concerned and scared about staying on the Camino path, especially the Frances. It is so well marked and honestly you gotta be walking with your proverbial cranium in da six to get lost.
I recently walked the Frances and it was comical how app dependent so many pilgrims were. They literally walked with their cellphones in their hands staring at the screen and at times when they walked past me I could hear the audible directions
Several pilgrims were shocked that I walked without an app or with my cellphone even being on.

 

[Wandalina]

Stop saying 'what if...' in advance of going /while packing... and allow yourself to just 'be'
It always works out
and if you anticipate everything
you spoil the fun, chip away at the pure joy of just being
... and you get a very heavy bag

 

[M2ME]

Listen to your own heart and not to the voices of others particularly those Camino professionals you will invariably meet. Having done a Camino or three they believe themselves duty bound to share their unsolicited insights. Don’t let the fears of others become yours.

 

[RJM]

Listen to your own heart and not to the voices of others particularly those Camino professionals you will invariably meet. Having done a Camino or three they believe themselves duty bound to share their unsolicited insights. Don’t let the fears of others become yours.

What kind of unsolicited insights?
Elaborate please....

 

[mspath]

Do not forget to stop periodically to look behind you wherever you walk. Those personal pleasures of seeing how far you have come will stay in your memory forever!

 

[Kirkie]

I find this such a difficult question. My initial peek at the thread let me see the way @Tincatinker turned it around to make it easier to try to be positive.
I confess to devouring whatever I could find online - in 2006- and particularly the information posted by @mspath long before I saw the forum - and also that I had the blessing of walking with a smart native of the country.
Why am I saying this? I guess this is why: be diligent and prudent in framing your questions and your search. Ask the right question and you will get a good reply. Pack and unpack till your bag is as light as it could be. You will not be on the moon, there are towns and villages and pharmacies and restaurants and wonderful accommodation options and beautiful sunrises and sunsets and sore legs and hard moments.
And other people.
So, maybe here I can finally say, in response to how the question was posed: do not ignore the wisdom of other people you happen on as you make your pilgrimage.

 

[MickMac]

Listen to your own heart and not to the voices of others particularly those Camino professionals you will invariably meet. Having done a Camino or three they believe themselves duty bound to share their unsolicited insights. Don’t let the fears of others become yours.

Well said.

 

[Turga]

Do not believe that ‘The Camino will provide’; be resourceful and ready to adjust.

Do not leave all your expectations behind, expectations are positive – just be ready for something completely different and possibly better.

Do not ignore the wisdom of others, but be wise enough to know when it is actually wisdom and not just personal opinions or ‘wisdom’ that has become ‘wisdom’ only by being endlessly repeated.

 

[AshtabulaJed]

Do NOT…I repeat, do NOT put all your eggs in the same basket. I am currently in Spain traveling with a group of pilgrims from USA as their spiritual director. I was supposed to begin the Camino on Aug 28 when they depart from Portugal. Unfortunately, I lost both my credit card and my bank card somewhere in Paris, possibly in the Sacra Coer. So I will be returning with them to USA , buying another ticket to return to Spain the first week in September. Had I packed one card in my luggage and kept only one on my person, I would have no problem. Nonetheless I am blessed. New cards will be waiting for me upon my arrival home. I was able to cancel everything and no one tried using them before cancellation. Also, I still have my passport. Again, do not put all your eggs in one basket!!

 

[Roland49]

Not to do?

Do not overplan!
Do not overpack!
Do not book ahead too far!
Do not expect anything "magic"!
Do not leave anything behind other than footprints!
Do not shout or swear out loud!
Do not mess with cattle, horses or dogs!

 

[PiesIrlandeses]

Do not shout.

Men: Do not forget to remove your headwear indoors, especially in churches.

Do not apply a Compeed plaster to a blister that is still closed (apply an island dressing instead).

Do not forget rubber tips for your walking poles.

Do not video a fellow peregrino without their permission and put it up on Youtube (as one nascent Youtuber did to me).

Do not race, ever.

 

[dougfitz]

Do not forget to enjoy yourself.

(with apologies to @MickMac and @trecile)

 

[JustOneGuy]

Do not disrespect the environment, the trail, the others, the local community.

Do not forget to leave everything - trails, hostels, bars, public toilets - better than you found it.

Do not forget to smile and cheers everyone else you meet while walking.

Don't forget to politely warn and slow down if you are on a bike and overtake someone on foot on a narrow path.

 

[TravellingMan22]

1 -don’t try and be perfect. If you understand a little of the culture and the language that’s great and will certainly enhance your experience, but if you don’t no one is going to throw you in the sea. Parts of the world throw you prison or worse for cultural misunderstandings but not Spain. No need to tread egg shells! You have have earnt your trip.
2 - don’t stick in the Camino bubble. Try and breakout for a little while! Attend a local event or something or if ina city get on a bus to a surburban town.
3 - don’t over complicate it and make a big fuss! Unless something unforseen happens can be remarkably
straightforward.
4- don’t expect too much though it will most likely be a fantastic experience for sure.

 

[JustOneGuy]

1 -don’t try and be perfect. If you understand a little of the culture and the language that’s great and will certainly enhance your experience, but if you don’t no one is going to throw you in the sea. Parts of the world throw you prison or worse for cultural misunderstandings but not Spain. No need to tread egg shells! You have have earnt your trip.

Right!

On the other hand, do not assume that everyone in the world must speak English! People try here (I live in Spain since 5 years), but remember that this is a favor, not a must: the local language is another, and sometimes people may speak French or Portuguese (or something else?) as a second language.

 

[Kitsambler]

Do not -- for the love of all that's holy -- turn on your headlamp (headtorch?) inside the bunkroom when you're leaving in unholy hours of darkness in the morning. (Use the red lens!)

 

[gagseymt]

Talking to someone who was planning to walk a Camino the other day and the topic came up , what definitely not to do while cross Spain ? 1- don’t go too far in a day . It’s easy to see on the map where you want to go , but weather , trail conditions , and your health can make it non practical. 2- don’t go past your limits trying to keep up with other pilgrims , they may be cool & fun but don’t ruin your day & next day. Clint Eastwood “a man’s gotta’ know his limitations “. 3 - make sure you eat & drink enough. Eat even power bars during the day if you don’t find a cafe and drink water every hour even if you’re not thirsty . any other ideas out there? Oh yes don’t get drunk, for lots of reasons—

When walking don’t wear earphones or Buds, as many other pilgrims will respect that, and not make conversation. But many including me made friends with conversations along the Camino.

 

[tjdouglas63]

Carry your own bag and don't take shortcuts

 

[Perambulating Griffin]

Do not complain that the camino is too Catholic, that the churches are "gaudy and tacky", etc.
Do not complain that it is not a nature hike (it is not and never has been).
Do not avoid the "ugly" parts of the cityscapes (those ugly parts are the infrastructure that makes y/our bliss possible). Do not ignore the person having a bit of a struggle (a little kindness, or slowing your pace to help a person arrive for the day will be its own reward). Don't use the dorm as your spot to engage in a tryst. If you are actively "on the make", please try to tone it down (I've had more weird encounters with the newly single and their drama than I could ever have anticipated for a pilgrimage path). Don't go blathering on over dinner (or wherever) about who is "the most beautiful" person in the group around you; you are not in a position to know that much about anyone in the context of a travelling mad house.

 

[lt56ny]

Listen to your own heart and not to the voices of others particularly those Camino professionals you will invariably meet. Having done a Camino or three they believe themselves duty bound to share their unsolicited insights. Don’t let the fears of others become yours.

What kind of unsolicited insights?
Elaborate please....

I too are not sure what you mean by this. I can tell you that people who have done a camino or 8 or 10, and I don't mean just Sarria to Santiago (not that there is anything wrong with that ) I have never heard on this forum or on my Caminos anyone sharing advice tainted with fear let alone offering advice that is not solicited/asked for. As RJM stated can you elaborate. It would be good to do this so we can look out for this type of advice in the future.

 

[lt56ny]

When in doubt, or when you are hearing that little voice in your head, don't.

 

[Tom Conklin]

I'm surprised that no one has said this already but, do not feel the need to go with anyone. I have gone twice with friends and twice alone and though I enjoyed the friends I enjoyed the independence more. You will probably meet people before you even set foot on the Camino and you will continue meeting wonderful companions throughout your walk. Unless you don't want to.

 

[rioja routard]

whatever you do, do not snore

 

[mikerw1]

try not to just use a bar or anywhere just for the toilet

 

[KiwiMike]

Don’t put antiseptic cream on blisters! It makes them softer and multiplies the problems.
On the Del Norte, don’t under plan either. Sometimes accommodation is very difficult and you need to look ahead.
Two weeks on Del Norte so far, travelling alone.
Yes, I did train. No, I have never had blisters before.
But…. I’m having a great time and already met some new friends for life.
The Camino just happens to you if you let it.

 

[FLEUR]

Do not put your rucksack on your bed or bunk.

 

[trecile]

When walking don’t wear earphones or Buds, as many other pilgrims will respect that, and not make conversation. But many including me made friends with conversations along the Camino.

It's a personal choice to use earbuds, and not everyone is looking for conversation and companionship on the trail. Respect people's preferences and differences.

 

[SabsP]

When walking don’t wear earphones or Buds, as many other pilgrims will respect that, and not make conversation. But many including me made friends with conversations along the Camino.

I do not wear earbuds but neither do I walk a Camino to make friends or start conversations.

 

[mattythedog]

Don't walk into a bar and order coffee, beer or snack without first saying, "HOLA, Buenos Dias!" and presenting a big smile.

 

[JustOneGuy]

It's a personal choice to use earbuds, and not everyone is looking for conversation and companionship on the trail. Respect people's preferences and differences.

I totally agree.

But when I was running, I always thought it was extremely dangerous to run with earbuds on: you can't clearly hear a bike, or a car approaching when you're crossing the street. Or any other kind of threat.

Again, personal choice, but something to consider...

 

[SusieP]

Do NOT…I repeat, do NOT put all your eggs in the same basket. I am currently in Spain traveling with a group of pilgrims from USA as their spiritual director. I was supposed to begin the Camino on Aug 28 when they depart from Portugal. Unfortunately, I lost both my credit card and my bank card somewhere in Paris, possibly in the Sacra Coer. So I will be returning with them to USA , buying another ticket to return to Spain the first week in September. Had I packed one card in my luggage and kept only one on my person, I would have no problem. Nonetheless I am blessed. New cards will be waiting for me upon my arrival home. I was able to cancel everything and no one tried using them before cancellation. Also, I still have my passport. Again, do not put all your eggs in one basket!!

Not meaning to sound ignorant, but did your wallet get stolen?

 

[SusieP]

try not to just use a bar or anywhere just for the toilet

I agree. If on the road anywhere and we need to use a restroom, my husband taught me to always buy something at the store.

 

[SusieP]

Do not put your rucksack on your bed or bunk.

I'm new to all of this. Why not put your rucksack on your bed or bunk?

 

[Lurch]

Don listen to those insidious voices in your head that tell you that you made a mistake on coming to Spain; that your feet hurt, it is too difficult, that you really need to go home. After 2-3 days they will go away and you will understand and appreciate all that the Camino is.

 

[Lurch]

I'm new to all of this. Why not put your rucksack on your bed or bunk?

Dirt, bugs, all the stuff It picked up from when you took it off in bars, restrooms or on some grass.

 

[trose]

Talking to someone who was planning to walk a Camino the other day and the topic came up , what definitely not to do while cross Spain ? 1- don’t go too far in a day . It’s easy to see on the map where you want to go , but weather , trail conditions , and your health can make it non practical. 2- don’t go past your limits trying to keep up with other pilgrims , they may be cool & fun but don’t ruin your day & next day. Clint Eastwood “a man’s gotta’ know his limitations “. 3 - make sure you eat & drink enough. Eat even power bars during the day if you don’t find a cafe and drink water every hour even if you’re not thirsty . any other ideas out there? Oh yes don’t get drunk, for lots of reasons—

Worry! Do not worry, just take the Camino 1 step 1 day at a time.

 

[AidaYYC]

Talking to someone who was planning to walk a Camino the other day and the topic came up , what definitely not to do while cross Spain ? 1- don’t go too far in a day . It’s easy to see on the map where you want to go , but weather , trail conditions , and your health can make it non practical. 2- don’t go past your limits trying to keep up with other pilgrims , they may be cool & fun but don’t ruin your day & next day. Clint Eastwood “a man’s gotta’ know his limitations “. 3 - make sure you eat & drink enough. Eat even power bars during the day if you don’t find a cafe and drink water every hour even if you’re not thirsty . any other ideas out there? Oh yes don’t get drunk, for lots of reasons—

All great advice. I have walked two Caminos and both times I overpacked. Now that I am coaching a new pilgrim who's leaving for Spain on Aug. 29th, I told her repeatedly: "resist the temptation to pack those 'just in case' things" because they do add up.

 

[Americanperegrino]

Youre going to meet two people on the Camino of the greatest consequence. One will be the person you are, the other the person you didnt know you are. Be kind to both.

 

[TravellingMan22]

Not to travel without travel insurance and a basic understanding of how fees work in ATMs - you can lose €20 on a €200 transaction in a matter of moments by pressing the wrong button!

And don’t get layered down with cash! You need some but not a wad ful!

 

[AidaYYC]

Try to learn some basic Spanish words. If this is not possible, at least be polite. Always be polite.

If you can speak some basic Spanish, the locals appreciate learning where are you from, where did you start, how far are you going, even why are you doing it -- they like to engage. By all means, if you do not know some basic Spanish, at least be polite; even a simple gesture as placing your hand over your heart, signifying gratitude goes a long way ... after all, we are guests in their country.

 

[TomCole]

Don't play music on speakers. If you must have music, use headphones. Don't go on people's private property. Keep your political thoughts and opinions to yourselves. This one really got me. I'm from the USA and the amount of unsolicited advice about who I "needed" to vote for was horrific. I actually left the States to get away from the political noise. Keep your political opinions to yourselves on the Camino.

 

[JustOneGuy]

Don't play music on speakers. If you must have music, use headphones. Don't go on people's private property. Keep your political thoughts and opinions to yourselves. This one really got me. I'm from the USA and the amount of unsolicited advice about who I "needed" to vote for was horrific. I actually left the States to get away from the political noise. Keep your political opinions to yourselves on the Camino.

I agree with everything you say, except for the "political" part.

With all due respect, you have to consider that in many European countries, talking about politics is normal and fully acceptable. It is an activity we often do... and for hours! Sometimes in a very heated way. And because you are staying in Spain, it is also normal for a foreigner to accept the way of doing things in the place that hosts you.

Let me tell you a funny episode...

Years ago I moved to Australia, and as soon as I arrived, while going to lunch with a group of australian colleagues, I threw out, as a good Italian, a saying I had heard, namely that in english speaking countries, it is not okay to “talk about politics, sex and religion,” thinking it was a joke.

And one of my colleagues immediately replied, seriously, “But... why??? Do you really talk about these three things in Italy?”

Sometimes I rather wonder if we talk about anything else - besides food of course.... !

 

[TravellingMan22]

I agree with everything you say, except for the "political" part.

With all due respect, you have to consider that in many European countries, talking about politics is normal and fully acceptable. It is an activity we often do... and for hours! Sometimes in a very heated way. And because you are staying in Spain, it is also normal for a foreigner to accept the way of doing things in the place that hosts you.

Let me tell you a funny episode...

Years ago I moved to Australia, and as soon as I arrived, while going to lunch with a group of australian colleagues, I threw out, as a good Italian, a saying I had heard, namely that in english speaking countries, it is not okay to “talk about politics, sex and religion,” thinking it was a joke.

And one of my colleagues immediately replied, seriously, “But... why??? Do you really talk about these three things in Italy?”

Sometimes I rather wonder if we talk about anything else - besides food of course.... !

In England it’s politics, religion and football unless you are going to different bars than me!

 

[MariaSP]

Based on a few articles I've read recently:
- Do not break into people's properties.
- Do not open gates or destroy fences on private properties.
- Do not take fruit or veg from someone else's orchard.
- Do not feed the animals.
- Do not let dogs, cats, horses, etc. out of their enclosure.
- Do not use someone's garden as a toilet.
- Do not jump (naked or clothed) into a private pool, in someone's garden, especially not while the family is celebrating a child's birthday party by said pool.
- Do not start fires and put people's lives and homes at risk (not to mention all the burnt land).

I'm sure I'm forgetting some, but I'm sure many people's lives would be better if "pilgrims" stopped doing all these things.

And, of course, don't expect everyone to speak English; learn some Spanish

 

[PiesIrlandeses]

whatever you do, do not snore

Oops!

 

[Kalua]

I'm new to all of this. Why not put your rucksack on your bed or bunk?

I’m guessing because 1. it will be dirty or 2. It’s bad luck…not sure which one but I’m banking on the #1 because of all the walking then stopping put the back pack down on the ground, etc…

 

[CanadianBarb]

Be present with whatever arises and is....

 

[trecile]

Do not set an audible alarm in shared spaces!

 

[AshtabulaJed]

Not meaning to sound ignorant, but did your wallet get stolen?

It’s a long story, but I am just stupid. I should know better. I lived in Rome for two years and never lost anything. I was just careless with how I was carrying them and must have left the zipper on my waist pack open. The cash wasn’t taken, nor my passport. So I am very lucky.

 

[AshtabulaJed]

Oops!

I may be in trouble there!

 

[AshtabulaJed]

Don't play music on speakers. If you must have music, use headphones. Don't go on people's private property. Keep your political thoughts and opinions to yourselves. This one really got me. I'm from the USA and the amount of unsolicited advice about who I "needed" to vote for was horrific. I actually left the States to get away from the political noise. Keep your political opinions to yourselves on the Camino.

Tom, I am in full agreement with you on politics. I planned my sabbatical to coincide with the months leading up to the election. I don’t even have a television and am tired of it. It will be nice to get away from it. I will return with one day to spare to do my civic duty.

 

[AidaYYC]

Keep your political thoughts and opinions to yourselves.

Yes, please ... keep them to yourselves.

And even if you are interested in Spanish history, DO NOT bring the subject of the Civil War or the Franco years.

 

[AidaYYC]

I may be in trouble there!

Oooops, so am I ...

 

[JustOneGuy]

Oooops, so am I ...

I have the perfect excuse for this: "I was sleeping."

 

[Jharicot]

If you can bear it, don’t walk with your phone in your pocket. I spent a day and a half glued to the elevation map trying to figure out whether the hill was finished. Then my phone scared me by refusing to charge so I kept it switched off in my bag for the next day and I was SO much more present for the walk. Kept it off and in my bag the rest of the walking and next time I’ll do so from the start.

 

[Anthony18]

Talking to someone who was planning to walk a Camino the other day and the topic came up , what definitely not to do while cross Spain ? 1- don’t go too far in a day . It’s easy to see on the map where you want to go , but weather , trail conditions , and your health can make it non practical. 2- don’t go past your limits trying to keep up with other pilgrims , they may be cool & fun but don’t ruin your day & next day. Clint Eastwood “a man’s gotta’ know his limitations “. 3 - make sure you eat & drink enough. Eat even power bars during the day if you don’t find a cafe and drink water every hour even if you’re not thirsty . any other ideas out there? Oh yes don’t get drunk, for lots of reasons—

Don’t wake a snoring pilgrim to tell him to sleep on his side because his/her snoring bothers you. Get a private room, or go home. Almost knocked the snot out of someone for pulling that on me.

 

[Stephan the Painter]

I think if I were to take every one of these "don'ts" to heart, I would be far too stressed to ever hit the trail.

DO have a Buen Camino.

 

[C.C.]

whatever you do, do not snore

Impossible …

 

[Juspassinthru]

Talking to someone who was planning to walk a Camino the other day and the topic came up , what definitely not to do while cross Spain ? 1- don’t go too far in a day . It’s easy to see on the map where you want to go , but weather , trail conditions , and your health can make it non practical. 2- don’t go past your limits trying to keep up with other pilgrims , they may be cool & fun but don’t ruin your day & next day. Clint Eastwood “a man’s gotta’ know his limitations “. 3 - make sure you eat & drink enough. Eat even power bars during the day if you don’t find a cafe and drink water every hour even if you’re not thirsty . any other ideas out there? Oh yes don’t get drunk, for lots of reasons—

Don’t use your headlamp as a flashlight in the albergue, not even the red one. Don’t forget that you’re a guest on the Camino and that you will be literally walking through the local residents lives. Don’t forget to say gracias and por favor. Don’t forget that how you respond is totally up to you. Don’t forget to smile. Don’t forget to be grateful.

 

[Kathy F.]

Don’t be afraid. You can do this. You can do it all.

 

[Steve57]

Don't be overly concerned and scared about staying on the Camino path, especially the Frances. It is so well marked and honestly you gotta be walking with your proverbial cranium in da six to get lost.
I recently walked the Frances and it was comical how app dependent so many pilgrims were. They literally walked with their cellphones in their hands staring at the screen and at times when they walked past me I could hear the audible directions
Several pilgrims were shocked that I walked without an app or with my cellphone even being on.

I walked the Camino Portugues from Lisbon last year . Only saw a few with their phones checking the route , mainly from Tui, but did see more with their earbuds oblivious to their surroundings.

 

[JodieR]

I'm new to all of this. Why not put your rucksack on your bed or bunk?

You may transfer or pick up bed bugs.

 

[Dani7]

Don’t overthink the planning, and don’t forget to let go of your usual habits. You are on an adventure, so enjoy and live it.

 

[Camo]

Do not forget to stop periodically to look behind you wherever you walk.

Yes this is very true for those who can NOT walk but can still follow the trail on the internet (by whatever means) and the big item here is the google Street View PANO which allows you to continually look behind as well as any other direction.

The biggest regret for me is that in Spain most of these will be on the roads from the Google Car and I rarely can see in ANY direction once the trail goes off-road.

 

[mattythedog]

If you can bear it, don’t walk with your phone in your pocket. I spent a day and a half glued to the elevation map trying to figure out whether the hill was finished. Then my phone scared me by refusing to charge so I kept it switched off in my bag for the next day and I was SO much more present for the walk. Kept it off and in my bag the rest of the walking and next time I’ll do so from the start.

Well, that is a different bit of advice. Myself, I ALWAYS have the phone in my pocket or for a short time in the drybag on the way into the shower. I use the phone all day to take pics and check routes and check emails during breaks. Rarely, I call ahead to an albergue. Never got hung up on elevations. If encountering a hill, I just go up until complete. The phone will not make the hill easier or smaller or the distance less.

 

[AidaYYC]

I walked the Camino Portugues from Lisbon last year . Only saw a few with their phones checking the route , mainly from Tui, but did see more with their earbuds oblivious to their surroundings.

It is after all their Camino ...

 

[TravellingMan22]

Tom, I am in full agreement with you on politics. I planned my sabbatical to coincide with the months leading up to the election. I don’t even have a television and am tired of it. It will be nice to get away from it. I will return with one day to spare to do my civic duty.

I agree even as a European. I don’t think some Europeans quite realise how toxic this has become … to a tourist like me from UK who has spent a couple of months in USA this year it’s not a conversation I would start!

 

[Camo]

Enjoy every second, enjoy your walk, enjoy your companions,enjoy the beauty of it all,

Yes indeed the main word IS Joy (as in enjoy) and it is Ode to Joy that is the European Anthem - and if you take the time to examine the words you will find Beethoven's (Schiller's) reference to "pilgrim joy"

 

[TravellingMan22]

Don’t tell vendors how to run their business. It they offer cash and card payment don’t assume they prefer cash, or that it is cheaper. If they offer sales via a third party don’t assume they always prefer direct bookings.

 

[LTfit]

I agree with everything you say, except for the "political" part.

With all due respect, you have to consider that in many European countries, talking about politics is normal and fully acceptable. It is an activity we often do... and for hours! Sometimes in a very heated way. And because you are staying in Spain, it is also normal for a foreigner to accept the way of doing things in the place that hosts you.

Let me tell you a funny episode...

Years ago I moved to Australia, and as soon as I arrived, while going to lunch with a group of australian colleagues, I threw out, as a good Italian, a saying I had heard, namely that in english speaking countries, it is not okay to “talk about politics, sex and religion,” thinking it was a joke.

And one of my colleagues immediately replied, seriously, “But... why??? Do you really talk about these three things in Italy?”

Sometimes I rather wonder if we talk about anything else - besides food of course.... !

Thank you for posting this! This past summer on the Sanabrés I had some great conversations with a Gallego who had studied and lived in Madrid during the Franco era. It was fascinating learning, first hand, about this period which I had read so much about. Of course the talk also turned (or the other way around) to the current political climate especially in the US and Europe.

Maybe I have a different take on talking about politics - or anything else for that matter - as I grew up in States and have now lived in Europe for 30+ years but as long as we treat someone with respect (i.e. close down the conversation if the other person does not want to participate) why should any subject be banned?

The emphasis is on the word respect.

 

[Antal]

Dirt, bugs, all the stuff It picked up from when you took it off in bars, restrooms or on some grass.

At some places, particularly if you arrived late, and had a top bunk, there was simply no where else to put your pack but on your bunk.

 

[Kirkie]

Carry your own bag and don't take shortcuts

Have you walked a camino yet?
I have.
Since 2006, four, with intervals, and in different circumstances.
Other members have far more experience than I have.
I would hesitate to repeat your recommendation. Please, do feel free to come back in with your reasons for your suggestion.

 

[CMD]

Talking to someone who was planning to walk a Camino the other day and the topic came up , what definitely not to do while cross Spain ? 1- don’t go too far in a day . It’s easy to see on the map where you want to go , but weather , trail conditions , and your health can make it non practical. 2- don’t go past your limits trying to keep up with other pilgrims , they may be cool & fun but don’t ruin your day & next day. Clint Eastwood “a man’s gotta’ know his limitations “. 3 - make sure you eat & drink enough. Eat even power bars during the day if you don’t find a cafe and drink water every hour even if you’re not thirsty . any other ideas out there? Oh yes don’t get drunk, for lots of reasons—

Excellent advice

 

[JustOneGuy]

Trying to summarize all the advices based on all previous posts (including mine!):

1) walk only on tiptoe, but at least at 20 km/h: the marathon world record is there then.

2) do at least 40 km a day, but remember that you may be sore and hungry after about 100 meters.

3) don't put anything unnecessary in your backpack, but put everything you might need in case of natural disasters, including alien invasions and meteorites extinction Chicxulub-like events. The backpack should weigh less than 2 kg, but at least 20 kg. If you have problems with the 10% rule, as I have already suggested, EAT A LOT IN THE WEEKS BEFORE THE CAMINO.

4) don't make a fuss with anyone! Total silence! But greet and ask stupid questions to anyone you meet along the way, in hostel, bars, restaurants and cafes.

5) Go for the Camino Frances in the middle of August, but avoid the busiest time and only if it is winter, raining, hailing or snowing.

6) want to sleep? remember you will find everything full but you can't sleep on the street. Stay wandering the streets all night, never even leaning against a wall. Strictly forbidden!

7) Don't talk to others about politics, religion, sex, weather, family, personal issues, food, current events, sports, cerveza, wine, booze, annoying children and parents, diseases, sorrows, old age, ethnicities, nationalities, dogs, cats, birds, goldfish. And better to be silent instead about what is left.

8) Keep it to the end: you will only be able to pee and do your business in the toielette of the plane for the return trip.

9) you must be TERRIFIED by the Camino de Santiago, but... come on! don't "overthink" about it: just go to the nearest airport and take the first available flight. The rest...you'll see.

Anything else?

 

[eamackey]

Don't plan your schedule too tightly - allow yourself several days (I recommend 5 - 7 ) as a cushion. During a month or more of walking there are things that are bound to throw you off any planned schedule, such as illness, injury, or just a desire to spend more time in a certain town or region. If you haven't used those days when you get to Santiago use them to go to Finisterre and/or Muxía or explore another part of Spain.

And don't book a flight home for the day after you arrive in Santiago. You have taken quite a bit of time to walk there, spend some time in the city to relax and enjoy yourself.

Trying to summarize all the advices based on all previous posts (including mine!):

1) walk only on tiptoe, but at least at 20 km/h: the marathon world record is there then.

2) do at least 40 km a day, but remember that you may be sore and hungry after about 100 meters.

3) don't put anything unnecessary in your backpack, but put everything you might need in case of natural disasters, including alien invasions and meteorites extinction Chicxulub-like events. The backpack should weigh less than 2 kg, but at least 20 kg. If you have problems with the 10% rule, as I have already suggested, EAT A LOT IN THE WEEKS BEFORE THE CAMINO.

4) don't make a fuss with anyone! Total silence! But greet and ask stupid questions to anyone you meet along the way, in hostel, bars, restaurants and cafes.

5) Go for the Camino Frances in the middle of August, but avoid the busiest time and only if it is winter, raining, hailing or snowing.

6) want to sleep? remember you will find everything full but you can't sleep on the street. Stay wandering the streets all night, never even leaning against a wall. Strictly forbidden!

7) Don't talk to others about politics, religion, sex, weather, family, personal issues, food, current events, sports, cerveza, wine, booze, annoying children and parents, diseases, sorrows, old age, ethnicities, nationalities, dogs, cats, birds, goldfish. And better to be silent instead about what is left.

8) Keep it to the end: you will only be able to pee and do your business in the toielette of the plane for the return trip.

9) you must be TERRIFIED by the Camino de Santiago, but... come on! don't "overthink" about it: just go to the nearest airport and take the first available flight. The rest...you'll see.

Anything else?

I was wondering about booking flight home.
So adding a few days as a cushion is recommended?
Also, do things open up

Don't plan your schedule too tightly - allow yourself several days (I recommend 5 - 7 ) as a cushion. During a month or more of walking there are things that are bound to throw you off any planned schedule, such as illness, injury, or just a desire to spend more time in a certain town or region. If you haven't used those days when you get to Santiago use them to go to Finisterre and/or Muxía or explore another part of Spain.

And don't book a flight home for the day after you arrive in Santiago. You have taken quite a bit of time to walk there, spend some time in the city to relax and enjoy yourself.

i was wondering about gauging date for return flight home. Sounds like adding some days as a cushion is recommended. Also, Easter 2025 is April

Don't plan your schedule too tightly - allow yourself several days (I recommend 5 - 7 ) as a cushion. During a month or more of walking there are things that are bound to throw you off any planned schedule, such as illness, injury, or just a desire to spend more time in a certain town or region. If you haven't used those days when you get to Santiago use them to go to Finisterre and/or Muxía or explore another part of Spain.

And don't book a flight home for the day after you arrive in Santiago. You have taken quite a bit of time to walk there, spend some time in the city to relax and enjoy yourself.

I was wondering about when to book return trip. Sounds like adding some days is recommended. Also, Easter 2025 is April 20. Will things open up pretty soon after. Thinking starting late April might get me ahead of May crowd?
Thanks.

 

[WGroleau]

- Don’t pack and carry a load of stuff to the airport/ship/bus when almost all of it could be bought in Spain.
- Don’t pay in currencies other than Euro if you can avoid it and especially don’t believe anyone who tells you the lie that they are required to charge you in your home currency. (They and/or their bank makes a lot of money that way.)
- Don’t convert a lot of currency in the airport where the conversion fees are high. Best way to get cash is an ATM, especially if your card provider is one that refunds ATM fees.
- Don’t carry so much cash that a loss or theft would ruin a whole day, but don’t carry so little that an ATM malfunction would ruin a whole day.
- Enjoy the conversations and scenery but don’t get so lost in them that you don’t hear the bicyclist trying to tell you of his/her approach.
- Don’t save a hundred meters by cutting across a corner and trampling a farmer’s crops, not even if a hundred <censored> have already turned the shortcut into a dirt path.
- Don’t leave toilet paper anywhere but a toilet or trash bin!
- Don’t try to reserve a bed for another pilgrim who isn’t already present unless he/she needs you to translate. If they haven’t arrived, they might not.
- Don’t put compeed on blisters. It’s designed to prevent them by reducing rubbing. Put on afterward, it may rip them open when you remove it.

 

[WGroleau]

What kind of unsolicited insights?

There are those who will stress how important it is to reserve a bed in advance of arrival. Or maybe those who will insist that you NEVER need to do that. Or tell you that you need to get out the door at zero-dark-thirty or you’ll not get a bed in the next village.

 

[WGroleau]

Had I packed one card in my luggage and kept only one on my person, I would have no problem

I was advised to have credit or debit cards from two different banks in case one was unexpectedly off line. I personally witnessed the value of that advice twice!

 

[Susan Maria]

It’s a long story, but I am just stupid. I should know better. I lived in Rome for two years and never lost anything. I was just careless with how I was carrying them and must have left the zipper on my waist pack open. The cash wasn’t taken, nor my passport. So I am very lucky.

Not necessarily...my bag was unzipped and my purse was lifted expertly outside the Sacre Coeur some years ago. A fruitless morning was spent at the Police Station reporting the loss.

 

[Badchap]

whatever you do, do not snore

Nah. Do not forget your earplugs.

 

[lt56ny]

I'm new to all of this. Why not put your rucksack on your bed or bunk?

Someone else responded about dirt and bugs which is all so, so true. Backpacks are pretty dirty creatures. Think about where you see backpacks laying about during the day and if you want those things on your bed. Also you may have picked up bedbugs (I know this falls under the guise of bugs) and keeping your pack on the bed can spread the bedbugs. If there is a hook it is always best to put your backpack on a hook on a wall. Protects you from infestation and protects others from your/my pack. Buen camino

 

[RJM]

I walked the Camino Portugues from Lisbon last year . Only saw a few with their phones checking the route , mainly from Tui, but did see more with their earbuds oblivious to their surroundings.

I saw the earbud wearing pilgrims on my recent Camino Frances fairly often and sometimes when they were walking on roadways. Totally unsafe and quite frankly, dumb thing to do.
I guess pilgrims are devolving. Losing navigation skills and common sense.

 

[RJM]

At some places, particularly if you arrived late, and had a top bunk, there was simply no where else to put your pack but on your bunk.

It's rude and unsanitary to do that and the albergues don't want you to do that.
Prospective pilgrims, don't do it. Put your pack on the floor. I never saw an albergue sleep area with no floor space.

 

[Thurland]

I too are not sure what you mean by this. I can tell you that people who have done a camino or 8 or 10, and I don't mean just Sarria to Santiago (not that there is anything wrong with that ) I have never heard on this forum or on my Caminos anyone sharing advice tainted with fear let alone offering advice that is not solicited/asked for. As RJM stated can you elaborate. It would be good to do this so we can look out for this type of advice in the future.

This wasn’t directed at me, but I’ll wade in - since I’ve done 6 (or 13 if you want to count SdC to Muxia and/or Fisterra) - with an example of a time when I did offer unsolicited advice. I (along with others) do talk about my Camino’s a lot - because it is such a huge part of my life in these last ten years. But THAT in and of itself is not “sharing unsolicited advice”.

On my second Camino, I was in Rabanal, and in conversation with two people I had just met. They were talking about going to Molinesca the next day, and possibly Ponferrada. I was fairly adamant that they would be better off to stop in El Acebo - because I remembered the rocky descent and how hard it had been on me. They politely, but firmly, put their fingers in their ears, and let me know that it was this type of info that first timers needed to learn on their own.

They were right, and I think from that experience I have (usually) been able to draw the line between offering unsolicited advice and talking about the riches of my Caminos?

 

[Trekker One]

Take photos, but make sure you enjoy the subject first be it a spectacular sunset/sunrise, landscape, architecture or the company of another person.
Photos never really capture the moment as well as being present in the moment and enjoying them.
Trying to capture special moments via a photo without being fully present when these moments occur, are opportunities lost.
Pictures may be better than a thousand words, but being fully present in the moment is priceless and what your best memories are made of.

 

[lt56ny]

This wasn’t directed at me, but I’ll wade in - since I’ve done 6 (or 13 if you want to count SdC to Muxia and/or Fisterra) - with an example of a time when I did offer unsolicited advice. I (along with others) do talk about my Camino’s a lot - because it is such a huge part of my life in these last ten years. But THAT in and of itself is not “sharing unsolicited advice”.

On my second Camino, I was in Rabanal, and in conversation with two people I had just met. They were talking about going to Molinesca the next day, and possibly Ponferrada. I was fairly adamant that they would be better off to stop in El Acebo - because I remembered the rocky descent and how hard it had been on me. They politely, but firmly, put their fingers in their ears, and let me know that it was this type of info that first timers needed to learn on their own.

They were right, and I think from that experience I have (usually) been able to draw the line between offering unsolicited advice and talking about the riches of my Caminos?

You know I was thinking about this post a little earlier. When I am on the camino and like yourself I have walked many caminos, I have had new pilgrims ask me for advice when they know that I have walked so many times. I do try to keep my advice specific to their questions and try to be as objective as possible. Like yourself if someone is going to do something that I believe may be foolish I will offer my advice. You are correct that they may reject what we say and I respect it and leave it be.
Like many of us we have counseled new pilgrims who are about to walk their first camino. Of course we talk about the standard stuff but always with the caveat (clothes, packs, shoes, especially) that these are personal decisions and one should try different brands and models. When it comes to the day to day living on the camino, reservations, distances, etc I tell them what I do but always point out that again these are personal decisions that work for me. I give the pros and cons of these various things but always say only through self discovery will you learn what works for them. I try to just give the basics and leave the door wide open for new pilgrims to really learn and experience the camino through their own minds, bodies and spirits.

 

[trecile]

i was wondering about gauging date for return flight home. Sounds like adding some days as a cushion is recommended

Definitely add in days to give yourself a cushion. There's so much that can happen while walking a Camino that can send your plans into the trashcan. You don't want to end up in the position where you need to walk ridiculously long stages or skip stages to get to Santiago on time.

 

[Suzanne H]

Do not think that you must walk the distances noted as an ‘etape’ in a guidebook.
Do not assume a donativo albergue is a ‘free’ albergue.

 

[WGroleau]

It's a personal choice to use earbuds, and not everyone is looking for conversation and companionship on the trail. Respect people's preferences and differences.

Personally, I hate earbuds, even if they would stay in, which they don’t. But I like music and listening to spoken bible passages. But if you’re like me, also be like me and mute or pause when approaching others who might not have the same preference!

 

[WGroleau]

All great advice. I have walked two Caminos and both times I overpacked. Now that I am coaching a new pilgrim who's leaving for Spain on Aug. 29th, I told her repeatedly: "resist the temptation to pack those 'just in case' things" because they do add up.

And the only thing you can’t buy in Spain is the data in your electronic devices. Well, one of my medicines isn’t available in Spain or Italy, but all the others were cheaper than USA and didn’t require prescription.

 

[longlost18]

Listen to your own heart and not to the voices of others particularly those Camino professionals you will invariably meet. Having done a Camino or three they believe themselves duty bound to share their unsolicited insights. Don’t let the fears of others become yours.

An older Spanish gentleman insisted that I'd walk better if removed the rubber tips from my trekking poles. I said, "I'm good." He kept loudly insisting as I quickly walked away, saying "buenos dias."

 

[trecile]

Personally, I hate earbuds, even if they would stay in, which they don’t. But I like music and listening to spoken bible passages.

This year I bought a bone conduction headset. I love it because there is nothing blocking my ears at all. The speakers sit in front of my ears on my temples.
Here's a photo from the Shokz website that shows how they are worn.