LIVE from the Camino Héctor Walked His Way-Successfully!

HBS60 · Sep 22, 2024

Lavacolla to Santiago de Compostela: 8.8 miles, 14.1 Km*

* longer than expected because of trying to find the Monte do Gozo statues in the fog.

Well, I did it! I walked EVERY SINGLE STEP from St Jean Pied-De-Port to Santiago de Compostela in 6 weeks, starting on Sunday, August 11, ending on Sunday, September 22, the last day of summer and the first day of fall, hopefully also the first day for a new season in my life.

My last day in the Camino started ordinarily enough, waking up, applying antichafing cream to my feet to prevent blisters, leaving my big backpack to be picked up for transport. Although sleepy, I made a speaking video trying to collect my thoughts.

The lady at the hotel bar told me last night that the bar would open at 6 AM and I was happy about the prospect of coffee and a tortilla to get me started. Only problem was that the kitchen wouldn’t open until 8 PM…at least I was able to get coffee and a donut. I went to the gas station across the street and they also had junk food. At least I knew my walk today wouldn’t be long.

I set out and other than a fairly steep uphill, it was fairly easy terrain. The fog reminded me of my day walking from Orisson to Roncesvalles, how ethereal but challenging it was back then. It felt like an appropriate bookend to my Camino. I felt confident walking even if I was alone, felt more solid and toughened.

I found a town with an open bar, but no tortilla, meat or protein, so I had a Tarta de Santiago (almond cake) plus coffee, and resumed walking. It wasn’t a pretty walk, as we were on a grimy, industrial area, and the fog helped conceal the ugliness. I was concerned that the fog would hamper the view from Monte Do Gozo, a spot where two pilgrim statues are able to see the Santiago Cathedral from a distance, after a long walk.

Eventually I arrived at Monte do Gozo, and for the life of me I couldn’t find the statues. At this point a Spaniard from Tenerife (Canary Islands) was walking by, and we tried to find the statues, while engaging in conversation. Eventually, after much searching and asking someone that seemed to be in a tour group, we found them. Although we couldn’t see Santiago because of the fog, we took selfies with the statues.

We hung around, talking animately, trying to find our way back to the trail. We finally found it, and as we were entering the outskirts of Santiago, we stopped at a place to have something to eat. I had my first churros con chocolate I’ve had dinner e being in Spain (I can’t remember what he had).

We resumed our walk, and it was soon obvious we were getting close. After a wrong turn, we knew to follow the crowd, and as we were almost there, the cathedral bells started chiming loudly, and I heard the bagpiper greeting us.

I totally lost it in the best way possible.

I had arrived

I actually walked the entire distance from SJPDP to SDC, every single step of the way. The sounds of the bagpipe plus the cathedral bells is something I’ll never forget, I get goosebumps thinking about it.

It was almost noon, and we tried to get to the Pilgrim mass, but the line was huge, so after a while we decided to forget it and find the pilgrim office to get our Compostelas certifying that we’ve done the Camino. As we are searching, a man called Luca from Italy, whom I met in Trabadelo, spots me, comes to me and gave me a wonderful hug. It was a great joyful moment.

My Tenerife friend and I went on to the Pilgrims office, got our Compostelas, and then we had lunch. I had to find my Albergue which unfortunately is 1.6 Km away by the train station. He accompanied me for part of the way then bid goodbye as he had to find his albergue.

I’m now settled in, doing laundry, will head to downtown later, trying to think what I’ll do for the next couple of days. I have stuff to pick up that I brought but didn’t need for my walk, and I depending on the weather I’ll try to get a bus trip to Fisterre and Muxía on the coast.

I have already made arrangements for my train trip to Madrid, an overnight stay, and then my flight home. I hope for the next two days I get to savor the experience I just lived.

I’m extremely grateful for all the encouragement and support I’ve got as I’ve been sharing my journey. It was very difficult but it helped so much that I knew I had so many people rooting for me.

Thanks for staying with me!

FB link with pics and videos: https://www.facebook.com/share/p/naaTvRqHhv5MRsoA/?mibextid=WC7FNe

HBS60 · Sep 22, 2024

HBS60 said:
Lavacolla to Santiago de Compostela: 8.8 miles, 14.1 Km*

* longer than expected because of trying to find the Monte do Gozo statues in the fog.

Well, I did it! I walked EVERY SINGLE STEP from St Jean Pied-De-Port to Santiago de Compostela in 6 weeks, starting on Sunday, August 11, ending on Sunday, September 22, the last day of summer and the first day of fall, hopefully also the first day for a new season in my life.

My last day in the Camino started ordinarily enough, waking up, applying antichafing cream to my feet to prevent blisters, leaving my big backpack to be picked up for transport. Although sleepy, I made a speaking video trying to collect my thoughts.

The lady at the hotel bar told me last night that the bar would open at 6 AM and I was happy about the prospect of coffee and a tortilla to get me started. Only problem was that the kitchen wouldn’t open until 8 PM…at least I was able to get coffee and a donut. I went to the gas station across the street and they also had junk food. At least I knew my walk today wouldn’t be long.

I set out and other than a fairly steep uphill, it was fairly easy terrain. The fog reminded me of my day walking from Orisson to Roncesvalles, how ethereal but challenging it was back then. It felt like an appropriate bookend to my Camino. I felt confident walking even if I was alone, felt more solid and toughened.

I found a town with an open bar, but no tortilla, meat or protein, so I had a Tarta de Santiago (almond cake) plus coffee, and resumed walking. It wasn’t a pretty walk, as we were on a grimy, industrial area, and the fog helped conceal the ugliness. I was concerned that the fog would hamper the view from Monte Do Gozo, a spot where two pilgrim statues are able to see the Santiago Cathedral from a distance, after a long walk.

Eventually I arrived at Monte do Gozo, and for the life of me I couldn’t find the statues. At this point a Spaniard from Tenerife (Canary Islands) was walking by, and we tried to find the statues, while engaging in conversation. Eventually, after much searching and asking someone that seemed to be in a tour group, we found them. Although we couldn’t see Santiago because of the fog, we took selfies with the statues.

We hung around, talking animately, trying to find our way back to the trail. We finally found it, and as we were entering the outskirts of Santiago, we stopped at a place to have something to eat. I had my first churros con chocolate I’ve had dinner e being in Spain (I can’t remember what he had).

We resumed our walk, and it was soon obvious we were getting close. After a wrong turn, we knew to follow the crowd, and as we were almost there, the cathedral bells started chiming loudly, and I heard the bagpiper greeting us.

I totally lost it in the best way possible.

I had arrived

I actually walked the entire distance from SJPDP to SDC, every single step of the way. The sounds of the bagpipe plus the cathedral bells is something I’ll never forget, I get goosebumps thinking about it.

It was almost noon, and we tried to get to the Pilgrim mass, but the line was huge, so after a while we decided to forget it and find the pilgrim office to get our Compostelas certifying that we’ve done the Camino. As we are searching, a man called Luca from Italy, whom I met in Trabadelo, spots me, comes to me and gave me a wonderful hug. It was a great joyful moment.

My Tenerife friend and I went on to the Pilgrims office, got our Compostelas, and then we had lunch. I had to find my Albergue which unfortunately is 1.6 Km away by the train station. He accompanied me for part of the way then bid goodbye as he had to find his albergue.

I’m now settled in, doing laundry, will head to downtown later, trying to think what I’ll do for the next couple of days. I have stuff to pick up that I brought but didn’t need for my walk, and I depending on the weather I’ll try to get a bus trip to Fisterre and Muxía on the coast.

I have already made arrangements for my train trip to Madrid, an overnight stay, and then my flight home. I hope for the next two days I get to savor the experience I just lived.

I’m extremely grateful for all the encouragement and support I’ve got as I’ve been sharing my journey. It was very difficult but it helped so much that I knew I had so many people rooting for me.

Thanks for staying with me!

FB link with pics and videos: https://www.facebook.com/share/p/naaTvRqHhv5MRsoA/?mibextid=WC7FNe

I forgot to copy and paste the URL from my FB, fixed now.

naplesdon · Sep 22, 2024

Beware of the weather forecast for the next few days!!!!

dbier · Sep 22, 2024

You know...I've been through Monte de Gozo twice. Still haven't seen the statues...never could find them.

Let a flow state take you tomorrow. Go to Pilgrim House, to Mass, to the Pilgrim's Office, and/ or through the Museum, if you wish. Buy a ticket for a Portico tour. Or go to the St Francis church near the Pilgrim's Office, and obtain their certificate. Or grab a café con Leche near the Plaza. I almost guarantee you'll meet people there.

Or all or none of the above.

I found myself in that flow state that I mention the day after my arrival. I had several encounters where I felt powerfully pulled to minister to others, and did so.

Remain open, and celebrate! You did this!

HBS60 · Sep 23, 2024

I made sure to stop at Ivar’s and say hi!

HBS60 · Sep 23, 2024

naplesdon said:
Beware of the weather forecast for the next few days!!!!

Yep, it doesn’t look good. I’ll skip the Muxia-Fisterre thing, also because I’m bone-tired and don’t have the energy for a day trip, but would love to come back some day and visit. Today the weather looks decent, so I’ve been shopping and doing a little exploring. Went to the morning Pilgrim mass, visited Ivar, shopped for souvenirs, and stopped at The Pilgrims house, they have a debriefing at 4 pm. I’m definitely on decompression mode…

bestfootforward · Sep 23, 2024

HBS60 said:
Lavacolla to Santiago de Compostela: 8.8 miles, 14.1 Km*

* longer than expected because of trying to find the Monte do Gozo statues in the fog.

Well, I did it! I walked EVERY SINGLE STEP from St Jean Pied-De-Port to Santiago de Compostela in 6 weeks, starting on Sunday, August 11, ending on Sunday, September 22, the last day of summer and the first day of fall, hopefully also the first day for a new season in my life.

My last day in the Camino started ordinarily enough, waking up, applying antichafing cream to my feet to prevent blisters, leaving my big backpack to be picked up for transport. Although sleepy, I made a speaking video trying to collect my thoughts.

The lady at the hotel bar told me last night that the bar would open at 6 AM and I was happy about the prospect of coffee and a tortilla to get me started. Only problem was that the kitchen wouldn’t open until 8 PM…at least I was able to get coffee and a donut. I went to the gas station across the street and they also had junk food. At least I knew my walk today wouldn’t be long.

I set out and other than a fairly steep uphill, it was fairly easy terrain. The fog reminded me of my day walking from Orisson to Roncesvalles, how ethereal but challenging it was back then. It felt like an appropriate bookend to my Camino. I felt confident walking even if I was alone, felt more solid and toughened.

I found a town with an open bar, but no tortilla, meat or protein, so I had a Tarta de Santiago (almond cake) plus coffee, and resumed walking. It wasn’t a pretty walk, as we were on a grimy, industrial area, and the fog helped conceal the ugliness. I was concerned that the fog would hamper the view from Monte Do Gozo, a spot where two pilgrim statues are able to see the Santiago Cathedral from a distance, after a long walk.

Eventually I arrived at Monte do Gozo, and for the life of me I couldn’t find the statues. At this point a Spaniard from Tenerife (Canary Islands) was walking by, and we tried to find the statues, while engaging in conversation. Eventually, after much searching and asking someone that seemed to be in a tour group, we found them. Although we couldn’t see Santiago because of the fog, we took selfies with the statues.

We hung around, talking animately, trying to find our way back to the trail. We finally found it, and as we were entering the outskirts of Santiago, we stopped at a place to have something to eat. I had my first churros con chocolate I’ve had dinner e being in Spain (I can’t remember what he had).

We resumed our walk, and it was soon obvious we were getting close. After a wrong turn, we knew to follow the crowd, and as we were almost there, the cathedral bells started chiming loudly, and I heard the bagpiper greeting us.

I totally lost it in the best way possible.

I had arrived

I actually walked the entire distance from SJPDP to SDC, every single step of the way. The sounds of the bagpipe plus the cathedral bells is something I’ll never forget, I get goosebumps thinking about it.

It was almost noon, and we tried to get to the Pilgrim mass, but the line was huge, so after a while we decided to forget it and find the pilgrim office to get our Compostelas certifying that we’ve done the Camino. As we are searching, a man called Luca from Italy, whom I met in Trabadelo, spots me, comes to me and gave me a wonderful hug. It was a great joyful moment.

My Tenerife friend and I went on to the Pilgrims office, got our Compostelas, and then we had lunch. I had to find my Albergue which unfortunately is 1.6 Km away by the train station. He accompanied me for part of the way then bid goodbye as he had to find his albergue.

I’m now settled in, doing laundry, will head to downtown later, trying to think what I’ll do for the next couple of days. I have stuff to pick up that I brought but didn’t need for my walk, and I depending on the weather I’ll try to get a bus trip to Fisterre and Muxía on the coast.

I have already made arrangements for my train trip to Madrid, an overnight stay, and then my flight home. I hope for the next two days I get to savor the experience I just lived.

I’m extremely grateful for all the encouragement and support I’ve got as I’ve been sharing my journey. It was very difficult but it helped so much that I knew I had so many people rooting for me.

Thanks for staying with me!

FB link with pics and videos: https://www.facebook.com/share/p/naaTvRqHhv5MRsoA/?mibextid=WC7FNe

Thanks for sharing your excellent adventure with us all Hector. It's been awesome. All the best and enjoy your life's new season.

jfgough · Sep 23, 2024

HBS60 said:
Lavacolla to Santiago de Compostela: 8.8 miles, 14.1 Km*

* longer than expected because of trying to find the Monte do Gozo statues in the fog.

Well, I did it! I walked EVERY SINGLE STEP from St Jean Pied-De-Port to Santiago de Compostela in 6 weeks, starting on Sunday, August 11, ending on Sunday, September 22, the last day of summer and the first day of fall, hopefully also the first day for a new season in my life.

My last day in the Camino started ordinarily enough, waking up, applying antichafing cream to my feet to prevent blisters, leaving my big backpack to be picked up for transport. Although sleepy, I made a speaking video trying to collect my thoughts.

The lady at the hotel bar told me last night that the bar would open at 6 AM and I was happy about the prospect of coffee and a tortilla to get me started. Only problem was that the kitchen wouldn’t open until 8 PM…at least I was able to get coffee and a donut. I went to the gas station across the street and they also had junk food. At least I knew my walk today wouldn’t be long.

I set out and other than a fairly steep uphill, it was fairly easy terrain. The fog reminded me of my day walking from Orisson to Roncesvalles, how ethereal but challenging it was back then. It felt like an appropriate bookend to my Camino. I felt confident walking even if I was alone, felt more solid and toughened.

I found a town with an open bar, but no tortilla, meat or protein, so I had a Tarta de Santiago (almond cake) plus coffee, and resumed walking. It wasn’t a pretty walk, as we were on a grimy, industrial area, and the fog helped conceal the ugliness. I was concerned that the fog would hamper the view from Monte Do Gozo, a spot where two pilgrim statues are able to see the Santiago Cathedral from a distance, after a long walk.

Eventually I arrived at Monte do Gozo, and for the life of me I couldn’t find the statues. At this point a Spaniard from Tenerife (Canary Islands) was walking by, and we tried to find the statues, while engaging in conversation. Eventually, after much searching and asking someone that seemed to be in a tour group, we found them. Although we couldn’t see Santiago because of the fog, we took selfies with the statues.

We hung around, talking animately, trying to find our way back to the trail. We finally found it, and as we were entering the outskirts of Santiago, we stopped at a place to have something to eat. I had my first churros con chocolate I’ve had dinner e being in Spain (I can’t remember what he had).

We resumed our walk, and it was soon obvious we were getting close. After a wrong turn, we knew to follow the crowd, and as we were almost there, the cathedral bells started chiming loudly, and I heard the bagpiper greeting us.

I totally lost it in the best way possible.

I had arrived

I actually walked the entire distance from SJPDP to SDC, every single step of the way. The sounds of the bagpipe plus the cathedral bells is something I’ll never forget, I get goosebumps thinking about it.

It was almost noon, and we tried to get to the Pilgrim mass, but the line was huge, so after a while we decided to forget it and find the pilgrim office to get our Compostelas certifying that we’ve done the Camino. As we are searching, a man called Luca from Italy, whom I met in Trabadelo, spots me, comes to me and gave me a wonderful hug. It was a great joyful moment.

My Tenerife friend and I went on to the Pilgrims office, got our Compostelas, and then we had lunch. I had to find my Albergue which unfortunately is 1.6 Km away by the train station. He accompanied me for part of the way then bid goodbye as he had to find his albergue.

I’m now settled in, doing laundry, will head to downtown later, trying to think what I’ll do for the next couple of days. I have stuff to pick up that I brought but didn’t need for my walk, and I depending on the weather I’ll try to get a bus trip to Fisterre and Muxía on the coast.

I have already made arrangements for my train trip to Madrid, an overnight stay, and then my flight home. I hope for the next two days I get to savor the experience I just lived.

I’m extremely grateful for all the encouragement and support I’ve got as I’ve been sharing my journey. It was very difficult but it helped so much that I knew I had so many people rooting for me.

Thanks for staying with me!

FB link with pics and videos: https://www.facebook.com/share/p/naaTvRqHhv5MRsoA/?mibextid=WC7FNe

Bravo Hector! I have followed you on your journey and it brought back incredible memories from my Camino Frances last year.
I completed the Camino Portuguese this September and then the Camino Finisterre. All the while I revelled in your adventures on the Frances.
Buen Camino and safe travels home.

Theatregal · Sep 23, 2024

Joyous! Congratulations Hector!!

LSab · Sep 23, 2024

Congratulations Hector! Thank you for sharing your inspiring journey! You are a Camino star!! I hope you carry Buen Camino through the journeys that await you in life.

JulieandPeter · Sep 23, 2024

Thank you!

Camino Chrissy · Sep 23, 2024

dbier said:
You know...I've been through Monte de Gozo twice. Still haven't seen the statues...never could find them.

I missed them in 2015 on my first Camino. Eventually someone on the forum posted a simple little map on how to find them so when I returned in 2017 with my sons and daughter-in-law it was a special moment as I'd always thought the statues looked awesome in pictures.

CWBuff · Sep 23, 2024

dbier said:
You know...I've been through Monte de Gozo twice. Still haven't seen the statues...never could find them.

Camino Chrissy said:
I missed them in 2015 on my first Camino. Eventually someone on the forum posted a simple little map on how to find them so when I returned in 2017 with my sons and daughter-in-law it was a special moment as I'd always thought the statues looked awesome in pictures.

Yeah you gots to go a bit of ways "into the park" to get to them....

HBS60 · Sep 23, 2024

Santiago de Compostela, decompression day 1

I woke up early as usual, but savored not having to rush packing my stuff or having to walk anywhere. Still, I really couldn’t go back to sleep, so I eventually got up and headed to town. I’m very close to the intermodal bus/train station, and the bus station has a very good cafeteria so I got my usual choices. Then I went around the station because there’s some major construction going on and it’s not very clear how to get to the train terminals. I’d rather figure this out now and not on Wednesday morning when I’m lugging all my heavy stuff. I have a huge duffel bag that can accommodate everything but I’ll probably wear my big backpack, put the smaller one in the duffel bag and when I get to the train station, put the big one inside so it’s just one piece of luggage.

Once I got a sense of how to get there, I started to head out when I ran into my Tenerife friend from yesterday. He was headed to Fisterra to spend a couple days, which is a great thing I wish I would do, but I’m simply too tired to think about it. We hugged and bade each other goodbye.

Then I walked to the Cathedral, which is about a mile (1.6 Km away), I wad just thinking of looking around inside, but I happened to arrive in time for the morning Pilgrims mass. It was a beautiful service, in Spanish, and I was transported to that first Pilgrim mass in SJPDP in what seems years ago. While I do have my disagreements with the church on many issues, I can’t help but be moved by the beautiful liturgy, the music, the art, all motivated by devotion.

I got to see the Botafumeiro swing, it was practically over my head. They only swing it on certain holy days but sometimes a person or group will pay for it, and I felt fortunate to see this as I wasn’t really expecting it. What more could I want?

After the service, I went down to a cellar where a silver coffin that reportedly had St James’ body is on display. Then a stair leads up to the statue of the apostle, where I got the opportunity to hug him from behind as has been the custom. I got to experience the whole thing.

Then I went shopping for souvenirs, and I also paid a visit to Ivar, It was a great meeting.

As I headed back to my albergue, I passed by The Pilgrim House, a beautiful place where you could rest, meditate, decompress, write, read, and process the Camino experience. I hung out there for a while, but they had a debriefing session in the afternoon so I decided to return later.

I headed back to the albergue, and someone was cooking a batch of lentil soup and I was invited to participate in the community lunch. It was absolutely delicious. I showered, took a nap, then headed back to just hang around the Pilgrim House. They have a nice living room, kitchen, a reading room and a garden, and you can chat with the staff.

I started the debriefing session just myself and a staff member, and I’m glad how supportive and non judgmental he was, just giving me space to talk. I’ve been aware of how much emotional energy I’ve been carrying, and how during the Camino I was not just burning calories, but emotions. Then an Ecuadorian married couple joined in, we shared our feelings and emotions, it did feel therapeutic.

Afterwards I headed back to the Praza do Obradoiro to hang around, to listen to the bagpiper as pilgrims and tourists continued to pour in. I was also wishing to run into any of the great people I’ve met during this journey, but that was not to be. It was a lonely feeling but I understand that some connections are not meant to be permanent. Then I remembered the words by Gabriel García Márquez: “No llores porque terminó, sonríe porque sucedió”. (Don’t cry because it’s over, smile because it happened). Wise words that I’ll need to remember the next several days…

Fb link with pics: https://www.facebook.com/share/p/u4iD4bXdTLgNmpus/?mibextid=WC7FNe

JacquelineA · Sep 23, 2024

Congratulations, Hector. You did it!!!
Not only that, you also managed to post something every day. It was great to read it.
Have a save travel back home

Bala · Sep 23, 2024

So very, very happy for your whole journey, Hector. The many graces of this Camino will reveal themselves to you for years to come. Of that, I have no doubt. Thanks for bringing us along and sharing your thoughtful reflections each day. May you walk with God as your life journey continues. Peace and joy to you. Buen Camino.

peregrina2000 · Sep 23, 2024

HBS60 said:
Then I remembered the words by Gabriel García Márquez: “No llores porque terminó, sonríe porque sucedió”. (Don’t cry because it’s over, smile because it happened)

I had never known that those were the words of Gabriel García Márquez. Thanks for the education. I am not a fan of “realismo mágico” but I do love those words. Enhorabuena, Hector.

C clearly · Sep 24, 2024

peregrina2000 said:
I had never known that those were the words of Gabriel García Márquez

Maybe for good reason. It seems to be unknown, as described here.

Camo · Sep 24, 2024

HBS60 said:
I got to see the Botafumeiro swing, it was practically over my head. They only swing it on certain holy days but sometimes a person or group will pay for it,

I like to think that "certain unrevealed forces" caused it to swing to honor YOUR visit

Vancouver Rose · Sep 24, 2024

HBS60 said:
then headed back to just hang around the Pilgrim House. They have a nice living room, kitchen, a reading room and a garden, and you can chat with the staff.

I started the debriefing session just myself and a staff member, and I’m glad how supportive and non judgmental he was, just giving me space to talk. I’ve been aware of how much emotional energy I’ve been carrying, and how during the Camino I was not just burning calories, but emotions.

Congratulations to your on being open to whatever came your way, and completing the journey in (what seems to be) a better place than where you'd began.

Your post reminds me how sad I was not to have known about (or be told about?) Pilgrim House before I'd arrived in Santiago. I sure could have used a place to decompress and share some of my thoughts and feelings. Not knowing about it, I found I'd just started spontaneously crying in the middle of a conversation over the two or three weeks following the end of my Camino: Thoughts and feelings would come to me - sometimes triggered by the smallest things, seemingly unrelated things, and I'd start bawling. I think my husband thought I was losing it. Good thing I got over that, and had 2-3 weeks off before returning to work!

longlost18 · Sep 24, 2024

Thanks so much for sharing your planning, trepidations, and journey. We were with you every step of the way. For the deep feeling you showed walking into the tunnel, I found myself getting emotional and really tearing up. Hold those wonderful feelings and memories in your heart.

SDJunkMan · Sep 24, 2024

Congratulations Hector, I’ve been following your journey, and maybe I’ll see you this afternoon. I’m finishing my walk from SJPP today, hope to be in Santiago just after noon, so will keep an eye out for you. I started on August 22nd, and hoped I might catch up to you and say Hi!

dimdog · Sep 24, 2024

HBS60 said:
Lavacolla to Santiago de Compostela: 8.8 miles, 14.1 Km*

* longer than expected because of trying to find the Monte do Gozo statues in the fog.

Well, I did it! I walked EVERY SINGLE STEP from St Jean Pied-De-Port to Santiago de Compostela in 6 weeks, starting on Sunday, August 11, ending on Sunday, September 22, the last day of summer and the first day of fall, hopefully also the first day for a new season in my life.

My last day in the Camino started ordinarily enough, waking up, applying antichafing cream to my feet to prevent blisters, leaving my big backpack to be picked up for transport. Although sleepy, I made a speaking video trying to collect my thoughts.

The lady at the hotel bar told me last night that the bar would open at 6 AM and I was happy about the prospect of coffee and a tortilla to get me started. Only problem was that the kitchen wouldn’t open until 8 PM…at least I was able to get coffee and a donut. I went to the gas station across the street and they also had junk food. At least I knew my walk today wouldn’t be long.

I set out and other than a fairly steep uphill, it was fairly easy terrain. The fog reminded me of my day walking from Orisson to Roncesvalles, how ethereal but challenging it was back then. It felt like an appropriate bookend to my Camino. I felt confident walking even if I was alone, felt more solid and toughened.

I found a town with an open bar, but no tortilla, meat or protein, so I had a Tarta de Santiago (almond cake) plus coffee, and resumed walking. It wasn’t a pretty walk, as we were on a grimy, industrial area, and the fog helped conceal the ugliness. I was concerned that the fog would hamper the view from Monte Do Gozo, a spot where two pilgrim statues are able to see the Santiago Cathedral from a distance, after a long walk.

Eventually I arrived at Monte do Gozo, and for the life of me I couldn’t find the statues. At this point a Spaniard from Tenerife (Canary Islands) was walking by, and we tried to find the statues, while engaging in conversation. Eventually, after much searching and asking someone that seemed to be in a tour group, we found them. Although we couldn’t see Santiago because of the fog, we took selfies with the statues.

We hung around, talking animately, trying to find our way back to the trail. We finally found it, and as we were entering the outskirts of Santiago, we stopped at a place to have something to eat. I had my first churros con chocolate I’ve had dinner e being in Spain (I can’t remember what he had).

We resumed our walk, and it was soon obvious we were getting close. After a wrong turn, we knew to follow the crowd, and as we were almost there, the cathedral bells started chiming loudly, and I heard the bagpiper greeting us.

I totally lost it in the best way possible.

I had arrived

I actually walked the entire distance from SJPDP to SDC, every single step of the way. The sounds of the bagpipe plus the cathedral bells is something I’ll never forget, I get goosebumps thinking about it.

It was almost noon, and we tried to get to the Pilgrim mass, but the line was huge, so after a while we decided to forget it and find the pilgrim office to get our Compostelas certifying that we’ve done the Camino. As we are searching, a man called Luca from Italy, whom I met in Trabadelo, spots me, comes to me and gave me a wonderful hug. It was a great joyful moment.

My Tenerife friend and I went on to the Pilgrims office, got our Compostelas, and then we had lunch. I had to find my Albergue which unfortunately is 1.6 Km away by the train station. He accompanied me for part of the way then bid goodbye as he had to find his albergue.

I’m now settled in, doing laundry, will head to downtown later, trying to think what I’ll do for the next couple of days. I have stuff to pick up that I brought but didn’t need for my walk, and I depending on the weather I’ll try to get a bus trip to Fisterre and Muxía on the coast.

I have already made arrangements for my train trip to Madrid, an overnight stay, and then my flight home. I hope for the next two days I get to savor the experience I just lived.

I’m extremely grateful for all the encouragement and support I’ve got as I’ve been sharing my journey. It was very difficult but it helped so much that I knew I had so many people rooting for me.

Thanks for staying with me!

FB link with pics and videos: https://www.facebook.com/share/p/naaTvRqHhv5MRsoA/?mibextid=WC7FNe

Absolutely loved reading about your journey.......

HBS60 · Sep 24, 2024

SDJunkMan said:
Congratulations Hector, I’ve been following your journey, and maybe I’ll see you this afternoon. I’m finishing my walk from SJPP today, hope to be in Santiago just after noon, so will keep an eye out for you. I started on August 22nd, and hoped I might catch up to you and say Hi!

Thanks! Same to you! Meeting would be great. Being that it’s a rainy day, maybe I can hang out at the Pilgrim house as I doubt I would be walking around much. Someone else from a different group wants to meet me too so let’s see how this be coordinated.

HBS60 · Sep 24, 2024

peregrina2000 said:
I had never known that those were the words of Gabriel García Márquez. Thanks for the education. I am not a fan of “realismo mágico” but I do love those words. Enhorabuena, Hector.

I don’t remember when I first heard this attribution, so I looked it up and came up with this list of thought-provoking quotes, among which is the one I’m talking about. I haven’t heard the term “realismo mágico” but I remember reading 100 Años de Soledad” and I agree that it can be difficult to wrap one’s head around his literary devices. But these quotes are memorable, IMO: https://www.buenas-vibras.com.ar/blogtest/21-frases-de-gabriel-garcia-marquez/

VNwalking · Sep 24, 2024

HBS60 said:
Being that it’s a rainy day,

Lots to do on a rainy day!
The Mass in English with Fr Manny is a joy, if it's happening. As is the check-in with the Sisters in the welcome office upstairs from where you got your Compostela.

Highly recommend going down to the Tertulia - one of my favorite places to have breakfast, mid morning or mid-afternoon coffee, and perhaps something delicious.

Or, yeah. Pilgrim House is an absolute gem.

J Willhaus · Sep 24, 2024

When you board the train, they will put your baggage through an xray machine. There isn't usually a ton of room on the overhead shelf in the train compartment although my backpack always fits. There isn't a place to check your baggage, but there is sometimes a place to pile larger bags in the front or rear of the car.

We also enjoy a coffee or glass of wine in the Cafe at the Alameda Park if the weather is good. Good people watching place.

HBS60 · Sep 24, 2024

J Willhaus said:
When you board the train, they will put your baggage through an xray machine. There isn't usually a ton of room on the overhead shelf in the train compartment although my backpack always fits. There isn't a place to check your baggage, but there is sometimes a place to pile larger bags in the front or rear of the car.

We also enjoy a coffee or glass of wine in the Cafe at the Alameda Park if the weather is good. Good people watching place.

Thanks! I had no trouble putting my large duffel bag in the overhead shelf on my train from Madrid to Pamplona, so I hope this will be OK on an AVE train. Today I’m just killing time and “chilling” as we say in the States, appropriately since today is a chilly day. I’m trying to balance my desire to savor this experience with the need to transition to my ordinary life. I feel a boost in self confidence that I hope lasts a long time. It will be a bittersweet goodbye to Santiago and the Camino, but I know I need to return home, rest, and let it all sink in.

I’m very appreciative of all the support I’ve got all throughout this journey.

My heart is full.,,

CWBuff · Sep 24, 2024

HBS60 said:
I’m trying to balance my desire to savor this experience with the need to transition to my ordinary life. I feel a boost in self confidence that I hope lasts a long time. It will be a bittersweet goodbye to Santiago and the Camino, but I know I need to return home, rest, and let it all sink in.

Don't rush - the "ordinary life" will come back at your full circle soon enough. By All means - savour as much as you can!

There will be no "bittersweet goodbye" to Camino. You ARE "on Camino" all your life! Technically some folks will argue that we all always have been, but we'll leave those philosophical musings alone for now. Suffice to say that you'll have plenty of moments going forward to recognize that you are "Still walking The Way" and that "Camino Still Provides".

Meanwhile - WELL DONE, Peregrino!!!!

HBS60 · Sep 24, 2024

FB post for today:

Santiago de Compostela, decompression day #2

It’s raining in Galicia, not exactly earth-shattering news, but I’ve always found rainy days depressing. I like to joke that I have chlorophyll going through my veins, because I perk up with sunshine and get all droopy with cloudy, rainy days.

But it’s all OK. I put on my rain jacket and took my trekking umbrella, went to the nearby bus station’s excellent cafeteria for my morning coffee and first breakfast (croissant and orange juice). I went back to the albergue and started to rearrange my belongings between my two backpacks, and fortunately I can comfortably wear the big, heavy backpack while putting my smaller daypack in my duffel bag, and hand-carry it with minimal effort. I also re-strapped my umbrella to the big backpack because tomorrows rain is going to be even worse.

I hand-washed some garments and hung them to dry in the indoor rack, then I headed out into the old city. The rain had abated by then but I took along my rain jacket as I knew it would rain later.

As I walked into the old city, I felt a tad overwhelmed by all the noise and congestion of city life, with cars honking, ambulance sirens blaring, crowds of locals, pilgrims, and tourists making it difficult to walk the streets. I went to Praza do Obradoiro and other than the screaming of a local protest a few blocks away, it was fairly quiet. I wandered around, taking pics of interesting things like the artwork, took a video of me hearing the bagpiper, as a way of saying farewell to this very beautiful and historic city, not knowing when or if I’ll ever be back. I was running on low energy, so I headed to the Pilgrim house, as I just wanted to hang out since it was more comfortable than the albergue, and I just didn’t have the energy to do tourist things.

I did stop at the bar next door to have my second breakfast, a substantial ham and cheese croissant with more orange juice and coffee. I went into the Pilgrim house, and I just crashed on the couch, surfing the web on my phone, but also talking with pilgrims that were coming and going. I was recognized by Anita from the US, who has been following me, and wanted a selfie of both of us, which of course I obliged. I got my own selfie which she gave me permission to share in FB.

I tried to play a little guitar but I’m a pianist, still it was nice to put my hands on a musical instrument after 6 weeks of piano deprivation.

Not much more went on, other than I was hoping to connect with people I knew would be in town, but the weather seems to have made this difficult. I eventually decided to head back to my albergue. It had started to rain again so I was glad I had my rain jacket. I’m now back at the albergue, and other than putting my still wet clothes in the dryer, I’m not planning on doing much this evening.

Tomorrow I leave for Madrid on my first leg of my journey home. As I write this I’m struck by how many journeys have been part of this greater journey. In a symmetrical way, I will have spent 3 days at SJPDP and at Santiago, 1 day at Pamplona and Madrid, 1 plane ride to and from Madrid to Miami, and the train ride from and to Orlando will both be characterized by heavy rain. In between these bookends, I’ve experienced so much variety that will take me time to process and digest.

I feel something solidify inside of me, and I know that having had the experience of being able to complete the Camino Frances is something I can always draw from whenever I face future challenges.

In the meantime…onwards!

Fb link for pics and videos: https://www.facebook.com/share/p/8stKv3n8Kck82xQ2/?mibextid=WC7FNe

CWBuff · Sep 24, 2024

@HBS60 - Hector its your last evening
Go have "a date" with "Shadow Pilgrim" on Plaza de la Quintana. When night falls and the square's lights are turned on, it can be seen at the base of the Clock Tower, beside the Holy Door.

bestfootforward · Sep 24, 2024

HBS60 said:
FB post for today:

Santiago de Compostela, decompression day #2

It’s raining in Galicia, not exactly earth-shattering news, but I’ve always found rainy days depressing. I like to joke that I have chlorophyll going through my veins, because I perk up with sunshine and get all droopy with cloudy, rainy days.

But it’s all OK. I put on my rain jacket and took my trekking umbrella, went to the nearby bus station’s excellent cafeteria for my morning coffee and first breakfast (croissant and orange juice). I went back to the albergue and started to rearrange my belongings between my two backpacks, and fortunately I can comfortably wear the big, heavy backpack while putting my smaller daypack in my duffel bag, and hand-carry it with minimal effort. I also re-strapped my umbrella to the big backpack because tomorrows rain is going to be even worse.

I hand-washed some garments and hung them to dry in the indoor rack, then I headed out into the old city. The rain had abated by then but I took along my rain jacket as I knew it would rain later.

As I walked into the old city, I felt a tad overwhelmed by all the noise and congestion of city life, with cars honking, ambulance sirens blaring, crowds of locals, pilgrims, and tourists making it difficult to walk the streets. I went to Praza do Obradoiro and other than the screaming of a local protest a few blocks away, it was fairly quiet. I wandered around, taking pics of interesting things like the artwork, took a video of me hearing the bagpiper, as a way of saying farewell to this very beautiful and historic city, not knowing when or if I’ll ever be back. I was running on low energy, so I headed to the Pilgrim house, as I just wanted to hang out since it was more comfortable than the albergue, and I just didn’t have the energy to do tourist things.

I did stop at the bar next door to have my second breakfast, a substantial ham and cheese croissant with more orange juice and coffee. I went into the Pilgrim house, and I just crashed on the couch, surfing the web on my phone, but also talking with pilgrims that were coming and going. I was recognized by Anita from the US, who has been following me, and wanted a selfie of both of us, which of course I obliged. I got my own selfie which she gave me permission to share in FB.

I tried to play a little guitar but I’m a pianist, still it was nice to put my hands on a musical instrument after 6 weeks of piano deprivation.

Not much more went on, other than I was hoping to connect with people I knew would be in town, but the weather seems to have made this difficult. I eventually decided to head back to my albergue. It had started to rain again so I was glad I had my rain jacket. I’m now back at the albergue, and other than putting my still wet clothes in the dryer, I’m not planning on doing much this evening.

Tomorrow I leave for Madrid on my first leg of my journey home. As I write this I’m struck by how many journeys have been part of this greater journey. In a symmetrical way, I will have spent 3 days at SJPDP and at Santiago, 1 day at Pamplona and Madrid, 1 plane ride to and from Madrid to Miami, and the train ride from and to Orlando will both be characterized by heavy rain. In between these bookends, I’ve experienced so much variety that will take me time to process and digest.

I feel something solidify inside of me, and I know that having had the experience of being able to complete the Camino Frances is something I can always draw from whenever I face future challenges.

In the meantime…onwards!

Fb link for pics and videos: https://www.facebook.com/share/p/8stKv3n8Kck82xQ2/?mibextid=WC7FNe

Hola Hector, yes, the Camino does give you a certain realisation of what you can do, especially when challenges present. Safe travels home. I shall miss your posts. So, until next time.....and I'm sure there'll be a next time because Caminos are soooo wonderfully addictive.

SusieP · Sep 25, 2024

I enjoyed following you on your journey. As my husband and I are/were on the Portugues walk, I couldn’t stay online much to read every day. Thank you for sharing about the Pilgrim House.

Also, how did you walk right into mass? I have two videos from two days where the line is wrapped around the building. I also read that to see the Cathedral we have to purchase tickets the day before.

You probably don’t have those answers. We have too been very tired and overwhelmed from the journey. I may ask tomorrow to see if we can get in before we leave.

Buen Camino for life.

HBS60 · Sep 25, 2024

SusieP said:
I enjoyed following you on your journey. As my husband and I are/were on the Portugues walk, I couldn’t stay online much to read every day. Thank you for sharing about the Pilgrim House.

Also, how did you walk right into mass? I have two videos from two days where the line is wrapped around the building. I also read that to see the Cathedral we have to purchase tickets the day before.

You probably don’t have those answers. We have too been very tired and overwhelmed from the journey. I may ask tomorrow to see if we can get in before we leave.

Buen Camino for life.

Maybe I just got lucky about the Mass. it was around 9:30 AM on a Monday morning. I tried the day before, Sunday when I arrived at noon, but the lines were just too long.

Thanks for your kind words!

HBS60 · Sep 25, 2024

Santiago de Compostela to Madrid via the AVE train

The long journey home has begun, more complicated because I have two backpacks and no luggage transport service. Back home, I had bought a large duffel bag that could accommodate my large backpack, my cPAP machine, and a handbag, but now I also have a day backpack which I bought in Leon, plus all kinds of items that I bought as souvenirs. Fortunately, it all fits, but it’s very heavy to hand-carry.

So, I wore the large backpack as if I was walking, put the other smaller backpack and other items in the red bag, and walked to the train station wearing the large backpack and hand-carrying the partially filled (and lighter) red duffel bag. It was a bit unwieldy but fortunately the albergue was barely 500 meters from the train station.

I left the albergue early because we were expecting rain later, and it was already drizzling. So I got there too early as the train was leaving at 10:35 AM, so I had breakfast, then found a spot on the floor to park. A lady recognized me from my FB posts and came over to say hi, I’m trying to get used to all this celebrity…

I bought a few trinkets at a little store, then a poster map of the Camino Frances because I couldn’t find the one I wanted on Amazon. Dozed off a little from sheer exhaustion.

Eventually it was time to board the high speed AVE train, and of course I had to race to my car because it was on the far end of the train. There was no space on the large luggage area and I struggled with putting it in the overhead rack, until I took out the blue day pack and it was all good.

Unfortunately I wound up being on a backward facing seat, the seating chart when I chose the seat didn’t specify that these were backward sits. In front of me was a German (I believe) couple with a service dog, they had done the El Norte. The gentleman had helped me with the luggage, the lady spoke English so we talked a little.

So we leave Santiago. It was very foggy and rainy, and it felt weird that not only I was going backwards, but it felt like a long downhill. It was vaguely reminiscent of astronauts reentering the earth atmosphere going back and down (but with much cooler temperatures).

We passed by many towns, and while we were in a different part of Galicia, I certainly reminisced of the various towns, places and experiences I’ve been through the last 6 weeks. We went through many tunnels, sometimes my ears were popping as we went trough them.

Eventually, the landscape changed. I don’t think we were in Galicia anymore. Memories of the Meseta came flooding in, the glorious views of the vast Castilian lands after climbing the mountain when leaving Castrojeriz, the view of the trail and tiny pilgrims going towards Hornillos del Camino, the fantastic, fiery sunrises, the interesting people I got to meet.

The seat next to me was empty but in Zamora a young man came in. He’s thought of doing the Camino but had back issues, still we talked a lot about it. I did say he should talk with his dr but for the most part I just shared my experience.

Finally the train arrived in Madrid. Since this was the final stop of the train, there was no rush to put all my stuff together, but the train disimbarked very far away from the Chamartin terminal. I had already decided I wouldn’t take the Metro but get an Uber. Problem is, that Chamartin is a very confusing place and the crowds were overwhelming. It was pandemonium, quite a jarring jolt after 6 weeks of walking. I summoned the Uber but I couldn’t find the designated pick up place. It took several questions to get me to the right place. Welcome back to ordinary life!

I’m now at my hostel, showered, went to get a bite, went over my things, rearranged them in what I hope is a better configuration. I plan to check in my big backpack inside the duffel bag (it’s too big for carry on), along with the poles, extra shoes, hand bag assorted stuff, and take my blue day bag as a carry on with my meds/toiletries, pullover, my Compostela, and my cPAP machine will be my personal item.

I’m supposed to fly to Miami tomorrow, so far the hurricane hasn’t caused my flight to be canceled, then I’ll take the train to Orlando where my sister will pick me up, and I’ll sleep in my own bed for the first time in what seems years.

I remain thankful and blown away by the support I’ve got here, I remain most appreciative. Not sure I have much more to say, although the hurricane might be cause for more stories to tell…

FB post with pics: https://www.facebook.com/permalink.php?story_fbid=pfbid0nSfwXJ3ZyJoCetdyTevV3xjHRQxbt7DjR6JwMg7661tQVvUouUYGXiCv721QW3yol&id=510637685

CWBuff · Sep 25, 2024

HBS60 said:
...In front of me was a German (I believe) couple...

It is clearly the fact that you are not Irish because if you were, then undoubtedly the Murphy's Law would kick in and that would be the German couple that laughed at you on the Molinaseca descend.

Good Travels, Bon Voyage... safe trip home!

HBS60 · Sep 25, 2024

CWBuff said:
It is clearly the fact that you are not Irish because if you were, then undoubtedly the Murphy's Law would kick in and that would be the German couple that laughed at you on the Molinaseca descend.

Good Travels, Bon Voyage... safe trip home!

Thanks, that eould have been hilarious!
Seriously, thanks for all the support!!!

VNwalking · Sep 25, 2024

Too bad about the backwards-facing seat,but that's a fabulous train journey no matter which way you're looking. And so fun to meet other pilgrims.

And wow, arriving home at the same time as a hurricane?! May there be no further adventures. And if there are, may it just mean an extra day in Madrid, with accommodation paid by the airline.

J Willhaus · Sep 25, 2024

HBS60 said:
Santiago de Compostela to Madrid via the AVE train

The long journey home has begun, more complicated because I have two backpacks and no luggage transport service. Back home, I had bought a large duffel bag that could accommodate my large backpack, my cPAP machine, and a handbag, but now I also have a day backpack which I bought in Leon, plus all kinds of items that I bought as souvenirs. Fortunately, it all fits, but it’s very heavy to hand-carry.

So, I wore the large backpack as if I was walking, put the other smaller backpack and other items in the red bag, and walked to the train station wearing the large backpack and hand-carrying the partially filled (and lighter) red duffel bag. It was a bit unwieldy but fortunately the albergue was barely 500 meters from the train station.

I left the albergue early because we were expecting rain later, and it was already drizzling. So I got there too early as the train was leaving at 10:35 AM, so I had breakfast, then found a spot on the floor to park. A lady recognized me from my FB posts and came over to say hi, I’m trying to get used to all this celebrity…

I bought a few trinkets at a little store, then a poster map of the Camino Frances because I couldn’t find the one I wanted on Amazon. Dozed off a little from sheer exhaustion.

Eventually it was time to board the high speed AVE train, and of course I had to race to my car because it was on the far end of the train. There was no space on the large luggage area and I struggled with putting it in the overhead rack, until I took out the blue day pack and it was all good.

Unfortunately I wound up being on a backward facing seat, the seating chart when I chose the seat didn’t specify that these were backward sits. In front of me was a German (I believe) couple with a service dog, they had done the El Norte. The gentleman had helped me with the luggage, the lady spoke English so we talked a little.

So we leave Santiago. It was very foggy and rainy, and it felt weird that not only I was going backwards, but it felt like a long downhill. It was vaguely reminiscent of astronauts reentering the earth atmosphere going back and down (but with much cooler temperatures).

We passed by many towns, and while we were in a different part of Galicia, I certainly reminisced of the various towns, places and experiences I’ve been through the last 6 weeks. We went through many tunnels, sometimes my ears were popping as we went trough them.

Eventually, the landscape changed. I don’t think we were in Galicia anymore. Memories of the Meseta came flooding in, the glorious views of the vast Castilian lands after climbing the mountain when leaving Castrojeriz, the view of the trail and tiny pilgrims going towards Hornillos del Camino, the fantastic, fiery sunrises, the interesting people I got to meet.

The seat next to me was empty but in Zamora a young man came in. He’s thought of doing the Camino but had back issues, still we talked a lot about it. I did say he should talk with his dr but for the most part I just shared my experience.

Finally the train arrived in Madrid. Since this was the final stop of the train, there was no rush to put all my stuff together, but the train disimbarked very far away from the Chamartin terminal. I had already decided I wouldn’t take the Metro but get an Uber. Problem is, that Chamartin is a very confusing place and the crowds were overwhelming. It was pandemonium, quite a jarring jolt after 6 weeks of walking. I summoned the Uber but I couldn’t find the designated pick up place. It took several questions to get me to the right place. Welcome back to ordinary life!

I’m now at my hostel, showered, went to get a bite, went over my things, rearranged them in what I hope is a better configuration. I plan to check in my big backpack inside the duffel bag (it’s too big for carry on), along with the poles, extra shoes, hand bag assorted stuff, and take my blue day bag as a carry on with my meds/toiletries, pullover, my Compostela, and my cPAP machine will be my personal item.

I’m supposed to fly to Miami tomorrow, so far the hurricane hasn’t caused my flight to be canceled, then I’ll take the train to Orlando where my sister will pick me up, and I’ll sleep in my own bed for the first time in what seems years.

I remain thankful and blown away by the support I’ve got here, I remain most appreciative. Not sure I have much more to say, although the hurricane might be cause for more stories to tell…

FB post with pics: https://www.facebook.com/permalink.php?story_fbid=pfbid0nSfwXJ3ZyJoCetdyTevV3xjHRQxbt7DjR6JwMg7661tQVvUouUYGXiCv721QW3yol&id=510637685

On some of the trains, you can turn the seats around with a lever. I haven't tried, but saw it done mire than once. Not so sure with newer train cars though.

Cicada · Sep 26, 2024

HBS60 said:
Santiago de Compostela to Madrid via the AVE train

The long journey home has begun, more complicated because I have two backpacks and no luggage transport service. Back home, I had bought a large duffel bag that could accommodate my large backpack, my cPAP machine, and a handbag, but now I also have a day backpack which I bought in Leon, plus all kinds of items that I bought as souvenirs. Fortunately, it all fits, but it’s very heavy to hand-carry.

So, I wore the large backpack as if I was walking, put the other smaller backpack and other items in the red bag, and walked to the train station wearing the large backpack and hand-carrying the partially filled (and lighter) red duffel bag. It was a bit unwieldy but fortunately the albergue was barely 500 meters from the train station.

I left the albergue early because we were expecting rain later, and it was already drizzling. So I got there too early as the train was leaving at 10:35 AM, so I had breakfast, then found a spot on the floor to park. A lady recognized me from my FB posts and came over to say hi, I’m trying to get used to all this celebrity…

I bought a few trinkets at a little store, then a poster map of the Camino Frances because I couldn’t find the one I wanted on Amazon. Dozed off a little from sheer exhaustion.

Eventually it was time to board the high speed AVE train, and of course I had to race to my car because it was on the far end of the train. There was no space on the large luggage area and I struggled with putting it in the overhead rack, until I took out the blue day pack and it was all good.

Unfortunately I wound up being on a backward facing seat, the seating chart when I chose the seat didn’t specify that these were backward sits. In front of me was a German (I believe) couple with a service dog, they had done the El Norte. The gentleman had helped me with the luggage, the lady spoke English so we talked a little.

So we leave Santiago. It was very foggy and rainy, and it felt weird that not only I was going backwards, but it felt like a long downhill. It was vaguely reminiscent of astronauts reentering the earth atmosphere going back and down (but with much cooler temperatures).

We passed by many towns, and while we were in a different part of Galicia, I certainly reminisced of the various towns, places and experiences I’ve been through the last 6 weeks. We went through many tunnels, sometimes my ears were popping as we went trough them.

Eventually, the landscape changed. I don’t think we were in Galicia anymore. Memories of the Meseta came flooding in, the glorious views of the vast Castilian lands after climbing the mountain when leaving Castrojeriz, the view of the trail and tiny pilgrims going towards Hornillos del Camino, the fantastic, fiery sunrises, the interesting people I got to meet.

The seat next to me was empty but in Zamora a young man came in. He’s thought of doing the Camino but had back issues, still we talked a lot about it. I did say he should talk with his dr but for the most part I just shared my experience.

Finally the train arrived in Madrid. Since this was the final stop of the train, there was no rush to put all my stuff together, but the train disimbarked very far away from the Chamartin terminal. I had already decided I wouldn’t take the Metro but get an Uber. Problem is, that Chamartin is a very confusing place and the crowds were overwhelming. It was pandemonium, quite a jarring jolt after 6 weeks of walking. I summoned the Uber but I couldn’t find the designated pick up place. It took several questions to get me to the right place. Welcome back to ordinary life!

I’m now at my hostel, showered, went to get a bite, went over my things, rearranged them in what I hope is a better configuration. I plan to check in my big backpack inside the duffel bag (it’s too big for carry on), along with the poles, extra shoes, hand bag assorted stuff, and take my blue day bag as a carry on with my meds/toiletries, pullover, my Compostela, and my cPAP machine will be my personal item.

I’m supposed to fly to Miami tomorrow, so far the hurricane hasn’t caused my flight to be canceled, then I’ll take the train to Orlando where my sister will pick me up, and I’ll sleep in my own bed for the first time in what seems years.

I remain thankful and blown away by the support I’ve got here, I remain most appreciative. Not sure I have much more to say, although the hurricane might be cause for more stories to tell…

FB post with pics: https://www.facebook.com/permalink.php?story_fbid=pfbid0nSfwXJ3ZyJoCetdyTevV3xjHRQxbt7DjR6JwMg7661tQVvUouUYGXiCv721QW3yol&id=510637685

Many thanks Hector it's been most enjoyable
Take care
Kind regards Roger

JennyH94 · Sep 26, 2024

Thank you for sharing your camino Hector - it’s been wonderful to read of all your experiences on The Way.

I wish you happiness and contentment back at home as you reflect on such a special journey.

Cheers from Oz -
Jenny

lovingkindness · Sep 26, 2024

HBS60 said:
Santiago de Compostela to Madrid via the AVE train

The long journey home has begun, more complicated because I have two backpacks and no luggage transport service. Back home, I had bought a large duffel bag that could accommodate my large backpack, my cPAP machine, and a handbag, but now I also have a day backpack which I bought in Leon, plus all kinds of items that I bought as souvenirs. Fortunately, it all fits, but it’s very heavy to hand-carry.

So, I wore the large backpack as if I was walking, put the other smaller backpack and other items in the red bag, and walked to the train station wearing the large backpack and hand-carrying the partially filled (and lighter) red duffel bag. It was a bit unwieldy but fortunately the albergue was barely 500 meters from the train station.

I left the albergue early because we were expecting rain later, and it was already drizzling. So I got there too early as the train was leaving at 10:35 AM, so I had breakfast, then found a spot on the floor to park. A lady recognized me from my FB posts and came over to say hi, I’m trying to get used to all this celebrity…

I bought a few trinkets at a little store, then a poster map of the Camino Frances because I couldn’t find the one I wanted on Amazon. Dozed off a little from sheer exhaustion.

Eventually it was time to board the high speed AVE train, and of course I had to race to my car because it was on the far end of the train. There was no space on the large luggage area and I struggled with putting it in the overhead rack, until I took out the blue day pack and it was all good.

Unfortunately I wound up being on a backward facing seat, the seating chart when I chose the seat didn’t specify that these were backward sits. In front of me was a German (I believe) couple with a service dog, they had done the El Norte. The gentleman had helped me with the luggage, the lady spoke English so we talked a little.

So we leave Santiago. It was very foggy and rainy, and it felt weird that not only I was going backwards, but it felt like a long downhill. It was vaguely reminiscent of astronauts reentering the earth atmosphere going back and down (but with much cooler temperatures).

We passed by many towns, and while we were in a different part of Galicia, I certainly reminisced of the various towns, places and experiences I’ve been through the last 6 weeks. We went through many tunnels, sometimes my ears were popping as we went trough them.

Eventually, the landscape changed. I don’t think we were in Galicia anymore. Memories of the Meseta came flooding in, the glorious views of the vast Castilian lands after climbing the mountain when leaving Castrojeriz, the view of the trail and tiny pilgrims going towards Hornillos del Camino, the fantastic, fiery sunrises, the interesting people I got to meet.

The seat next to me was empty but in Zamora a young man came in. He’s thought of doing the Camino but had back issues, still we talked a lot about it. I did say he should talk with his dr but for the most part I just shared my experience.

Finally the train arrived in Madrid. Since this was the final stop of the train, there was no rush to put all my stuff together, but the train disimbarked very far away from the Chamartin terminal. I had already decided I wouldn’t take the Metro but get an Uber. Problem is, that Chamartin is a very confusing place and the crowds were overwhelming. It was pandemonium, quite a jarring jolt after 6 weeks of walking. I summoned the Uber but I couldn’t find the designated pick up place. It took several questions to get me to the right place. Welcome back to ordinary life!

I’m now at my hostel, showered, went to get a bite, went over my things, rearranged them in what I hope is a better configuration. I plan to check in my big backpack inside the duffel bag (it’s too big for carry on), along with the poles, extra shoes, hand bag assorted stuff, and take my blue day bag as a carry on with my meds/toiletries, pullover, my Compostela, and my cPAP machine will be my personal item.

I’m supposed to fly to Miami tomorrow, so far the hurricane hasn’t caused my flight to be canceled, then I’ll take the train to Orlando where my sister will pick me up, and I’ll sleep in my own bed for the first time in what seems years.

I remain thankful and blown away by the support I’ve got here, I remain most appreciative. Not sure I have much more to say, although the hurricane might be cause for more stories to tell…

FB post with pics: https://www.facebook.com/permalink.php?story_fbid=pfbid0nSfwXJ3ZyJoCetdyTevV3xjHRQxbt7DjR6JwMg7661tQVvUouUYGXiCv721QW3yol&id=510637685

Buen Camino, Héctor
All the best for what comes next!

-Lovingkindness

SusieP · Sep 26, 2024

HBS60 said:
Maybe I just got lucky about the Mass. it was around 9:30 AM on a Monday morning. I tried the day before, Sunday when I arrived at noon, but the lines were just too long.

Thanks for your kind words!

I got to mass! I asked on another list too. They said to just walk over. I walked over and got in at the beginning of the service! Made my whole trip!!! Thank you for talking about it.

HBS60 · Sep 27, 2024

Home!

VNwalking · Sep 27, 2024

Glad to know, given the weather! Thanks for the update, Hector. Who was doing the most missing, I wonder - you or the piano?

Peregrinopaul · Sep 27, 2024

HBS60 said:
Home!

So, nice piano! What make?

kiwi-couple · Sep 27, 2024

Thanks for taking us along with you Hector, I thoroughly enjoyed, and appreciated, your posts. I will miss them.
Enjoy being home again and buen camino.

HBS60 · Sep 27, 2024

Peregrinopaul said:
So, nice piano! What make?

Kawai grand

t2andreo · Sep 28, 2024

Camo said:
I like to think that "certain unrevealed forces" caused it to swing to honor YOUR visit

OR, Friends in high places!

The Camino provides!

t2andreo · Sep 28, 2024

Hector, see you next time! Yes, there will be another pilgrimage in your future.

bullingtonce · Sep 28, 2024

HBS60 said:
Lavacolla to Santiago de Compostela: 8.8 miles, 14.1 Km*

* longer than expected because of trying to find the Monte do Gozo statues in the fog.

Well, I did it! I walked EVERY SINGLE STEP from St Jean Pied-De-Port to Santiago de Compostela in 6 weeks, starting on Sunday, August 11, ending on Sunday, September 22, the last day of summer and the first day of fall, hopefully also the first day for a new season in my life.

My last day in the Camino started ordinarily enough, waking up, applying antichafing cream to my feet to prevent blisters, leaving my big backpack to be picked up for transport. Although sleepy, I made a speaking video trying to collect my thoughts.

The lady at the hotel bar told me last night that the bar would open at 6 AM and I was happy about the prospect of coffee and a tortilla to get me started. Only problem was that the kitchen wouldn’t open until 8 PM…at least I was able to get coffee and a donut. I went to the gas station across the street and they also had junk food. At least I knew my walk today wouldn’t be long.

I set out and other than a fairly steep uphill, it was fairly easy terrain. The fog reminded me of my day walking from Orisson to Roncesvalles, how ethereal but challenging it was back then. It felt like an appropriate bookend to my Camino. I felt confident walking even if I was alone, felt more solid and toughened.

I found a town with an open bar, but no tortilla, meat or protein, so I had a Tarta de Santiago (almond cake) plus coffee, and resumed walking. It wasn’t a pretty walk, as we were on a grimy, industrial area, and the fog helped conceal the ugliness. I was concerned that the fog would hamper the view from Monte Do Gozo, a spot where two pilgrim statues are able to see the Santiago Cathedral from a distance, after a long walk.

Eventually I arrived at Monte do Gozo, and for the life of me I couldn’t find the statues. At this point a Spaniard from Tenerife (Canary Islands) was walking by, and we tried to find the statues, while engaging in conversation. Eventually, after much searching and asking someone that seemed to be in a tour group, we found them. Although we couldn’t see Santiago because of the fog, we took selfies with the statues.

We hung around, talking animately, trying to find our way back to the trail. We finally found it, and as we were entering the outskirts of Santiago, we stopped at a place to have something to eat. I had my first churros con chocolate I’ve had dinner e being in Spain (I can’t remember what he had).

We resumed our walk, and it was soon obvious we were getting close. After a wrong turn, we knew to follow the crowd, and as we were almost there, the cathedral bells started chiming loudly, and I heard the bagpiper greeting us.

I totally lost it in the best way possible.

I had arrived

I actually walked the entire distance from SJPDP to SDC, every single step of the way. The sounds of the bagpipe plus the cathedral bells is something I’ll never forget, I get goosebumps thinking about it.

It was almost noon, and we tried to get to the Pilgrim mass, but the line was huge, so after a while we decided to forget it and find the pilgrim office to get our Compostelas certifying that we’ve done the Camino. As we are searching, a man called Luca from Italy, whom I met in Trabadelo, spots me, comes to me and gave me a wonderful hug. It was a great joyful moment.

My Tenerife friend and I went on to the Pilgrims office, got our Compostelas, and then we had lunch. I had to find my Albergue which unfortunately is 1.6 Km away by the train station. He accompanied me for part of the way then bid goodbye as he had to find his albergue.

I’m now settled in, doing laundry, will head to downtown later, trying to think what I’ll do for the next couple of days. I have stuff to pick up that I brought but didn’t need for my walk, and I depending on the weather I’ll try to get a bus trip to Fisterre and Muxía on the coast.

I have already made arrangements for my train trip to Madrid, an overnight stay, and then my flight home. I hope for the next two days I get to savor the experience I just lived.

I’m extremely grateful for all the encouragement and support I’ve got as I’ve been sharing my journey. It was very difficult but it helped so much that I knew I had so many people rooting for me.

Thanks for staying with me!

FB link with pics and videos: https://www.facebook.com/share/p/naaTvRqHhv5MRsoA/?mibextid=WC7FNe

Hector, congratulations. I cannot predict the future, but I knew you would make it, come rain or come shine or come blisters. And I also believe this is the first day of a new season in your life . . . or is it now the second day?

Spiritual rebirths or transitions or awakenings are real, they do happen, and they happen all the time. It all depends on whether the person is ready to accept such an event and put the necessary effort into it. You did, and now you have the rest of your life to reap the rewards from this new person you now are; however, be forewarned . . . there could well be another spiritual transition waiting for you for you are now on a new path.

All the best, and thank you for inspiring so many others.

Chuck

ObeeOne · Sep 29, 2024

I just got my Compostela! Such an incredible walk! Wore Sportivas and had no issues. I worried so much about shoes beforehand. Great weather and so much beauty to savor!

happypilgrim · Sep 30, 2024

HBS60 said:
Lavacolla to Santiago de Compostela: 8.8 miles, 14.1 Km*

* longer than expected because of trying to find the Monte do Gozo statues in the fog.

Well, I did it! I walked EVERY SINGLE STEP from St Jean Pied-De-Port to Santiago de Compostela in 6 weeks, starting on Sunday, August 11, ending on Sunday, September 22, the last day of summer and the first day of fall, hopefully also the first day for a new season in my life.

My last day in the Camino started ordinarily enough, waking up, applying antichafing cream to my feet to prevent blisters, leaving my big backpack to be picked up for transport. Although sleepy, I made a speaking video trying to collect my thoughts.

The lady at the hotel bar told me last night that the bar would open at 6 AM and I was happy about the prospect of coffee and a tortilla to get me started. Only problem was that the kitchen wouldn’t open until 8 PM…at least I was able to get coffee and a donut. I went to the gas station across the street and they also had junk food. At least I knew my walk today wouldn’t be long.

I set out and other than a fairly steep uphill, it was fairly easy terrain. The fog reminded me of my day walking from Orisson to Roncesvalles, how ethereal but challenging it was back then. It felt like an appropriate bookend to my Camino. I felt confident walking even if I was alone, felt more solid and toughened.

I found a town with an open bar, but no tortilla, meat or protein, so I had a Tarta de Santiago (almond cake) plus coffee, and resumed walking. It wasn’t a pretty walk, as we were on a grimy, industrial area, and the fog helped conceal the ugliness. I was concerned that the fog would hamper the view from Monte Do Gozo, a spot where two pilgrim statues are able to see the Santiago Cathedral from a distance, after a long walk.

Eventually I arrived at Monte do Gozo, and for the life of me I couldn’t find the statues. At this point a Spaniard from Tenerife (Canary Islands) was walking by, and we tried to find the statues, while engaging in conversation. Eventually, after much searching and asking someone that seemed to be in a tour group, we found them. Although we couldn’t see Santiago because of the fog, we took selfies with the statues.

We hung around, talking animately, trying to find our way back to the trail. We finally found it, and as we were entering the outskirts of Santiago, we stopped at a place to have something to eat. I had my first churros con chocolate I’ve had dinner e being in Spain (I can’t remember what he had).

We resumed our walk, and it was soon obvious we were getting close. After a wrong turn, we knew to follow the crowd, and as we were almost there, the cathedral bells started chiming loudly, and I heard the bagpiper greeting us.

I totally lost it in the best way possible.

I had arrived

I actually walked the entire distance from SJPDP to SDC, every single step of the way. The sounds of the bagpipe plus the cathedral bells is something I’ll never forget, I get goosebumps thinking about it.

It was almost noon, and we tried to get to the Pilgrim mass, but the line was huge, so after a while we decided to forget it and find the pilgrim office to get our Compostelas certifying that we’ve done the Camino. As we are searching, a man called Luca from Italy, whom I met in Trabadelo, spots me, comes to me and gave me a wonderful hug. It was a great joyful moment.

My Tenerife friend and I went on to the Pilgrims office, got our Compostelas, and then we had lunch. I had to find my Albergue which unfortunately is 1.6 Km away by the train station. He accompanied me for part of the way then bid goodbye as he had to find his albergue.

I’m now settled in, doing laundry, will head to downtown later, trying to think what I’ll do for the next couple of days. I have stuff to pick up that I brought but didn’t need for my walk, and I depending on the weather I’ll try to get a bus trip to Fisterre and Muxía on the coast.

I have already made arrangements for my train trip to Madrid, an overnight stay, and then my flight home. I hope for the next two days I get to savor the experience I just lived.

I’m extremely grateful for all the encouragement and support I’ve got as I’ve been sharing my journey. It was very difficult but it helped so much that I knew I had so many people rooting for me.

Thanks for staying with me!

FB link with pics and videos: https://www.facebook.com/share/p/naaTvRqHhv5MRsoA/?mibextid=WC7FNe

You did it! It's been a pleasure following your journey! Buen (Continuing) Camino!

Shona · Sep 30, 2024

Thank you heaps and to all who have added their messages. It’s been so very good following your six week Camino with all its ups and downs and not just the terrain ones. Enjoy your new life, dear Peregrino.
¡Ultreia!

HBS60 · Sep 30, 2024

Thanks to all that have supported me all these weeks. Much appreciated!

I’ve now been home a few days, recovering from the trip, getting adjusted to the different time zone, and just letting things percolate for the time being. I lost 6 pounds (2.7 Kg), 3 waist inches (7.6 cm), and my fat percentage went from 21% to 15% according to my (quite possibly inaccurate) digital scale. My labs drawn the next day after I got home are fantastic except for my A1C that went up a notch but I’m not to worried about that, I plan on returning to the gym to prevent ballooning since I won’t be walking 20 Km daily. Getting back to my piano, planning several pieces to record with the Camino as inspiration.

It was the journey of a lifetime, a great confidence booster that will sustain me for the challenges that life will no doubt send my way.

My heartfelt thanks to all of you that made my success possible!

Camo · Oct 1, 2024

HBS60 said:
the challenges that life will no doubt send my way

Seems most people here don't stop at the one Camino but it is not clear when the "wanderlust" kicks in again. So after a week or so are you yes/no or have not even thought about it regarding a return to Spain (or wherever)?

dbier · Oct 1, 2024

Camo said:
Seems most people here don't stop at the one Camino but it is not clear when the "wanderlust" kicks in again. So after a week or so are you yes/no or have not even thought about it regarding a return to Spain (or wherever)?

. Give him and his wallet a little time....

HBS60 · Oct 1, 2024

Camo said:
Seems most people here don't stop at the one Camino but it is not clear when the "wanderlust" kicks in again. So after a week or so are you yes/no or have not even thought about it regarding a return to Spain (or wherever)?

Nope. I’m exhausted, and need time to digest the experience. I don’t think it’s a good idea to pile on more experiences on top of each other. I’m focusing on discovering how this experience changes me/help me grow, and piling up Caminos doesn’t seem to me like a good way to do that. I would consider doing the hospitalero thing down the road, and I’m not ruling out another Camino down the road if I feel the need, but for now, this Camino I just did is sufficient.

VNwalking · Oct 1, 2024

HBS60 said:
I’m exhausted, and need time to digest the experience

Wisdom.

Camo · Oct 1, 2024

HBS60 said:
I’m focusing on discovering how this experience changes me/help me grow, and piling up Caminos doesn’t seem to me like a good way to do that.

Thanks heaps for your reply and so it looks like there is no initial haste to repeat this Camino or perhaps another??

As for "piling up" is concerned I was simply asking a question because a lot of people become repeat pilgrims - I was not suggesting you should and in fact I personally never saw a need for the first one (so did not) but I respect the decision of others to do so as many times as they see fit.

However my own experience was to suddenly return to Greece 50 years after my first visit (and 10 years older than you are now) for no apparent "reason" hence my question to you to sort of compare notes.

And of course the Goldsmith of Words has that haunting passage about "you return to yourself when you go back to a place"

HBS60 · Oct 1, 2024

Camo said:
Thanks heaps for your reply and so it looks like there is no initial haste to repeat this Camino or perhaps another??

As for "piling up" is concerned I was simply asking a question because a lot of people become repeat pilgrims - I was not suggesting you should and in fact I personally never saw a need for the first one (so did not) but I respect the decision of others to do so as many times as they see fit.

However my own experience was to suddenly return to Greece 50 years after my first visit (and 10 years older than you are now) for no apparent "reason" hence my question to you to sort of compare notes.

And of course the Goldsmith of Words has that haunting passage about "you return to yourself when you go back to a place"

I didn’t think you were trying to imply that I should “pile up” Caminos. I do think that when I hear about people doing 47 Caminos (I’m exaggerating the number) it’s a bit too much and I wonder what’s really going on, but it’s not my place to judge if it’s something that brings them joy and fulfillment. Since I used to work in the substance abuse treatment field, I do tend to be wary about compulsively repeating something dysfunctionally. A common phrase in the recovery field is “one is too many, a thousand is not enough”, and a much simpler way of putting this would be “easy does it”, and “one day at a time”. I personally don’t a chemical addiction problem but working in this field for so long, I tend to see things through that lens. I will admit to a severe piano addiction, as I do attend a 10 day piano camp in Vermont every year, and I’ve done so at least 6 times, and I do pile up repertoire pieces like there’s no tomorrow, and with all that Spanish inspiration, I’ll be doing a deep dive into Spanish classical piano repertoire, as I relive my Camino as I play Granados, Albeniz, de Falla, etc, and I’ll let my fingers to the walking!

C clearly · Oct 1, 2024

HBS60 said:
I will admit to a severe piano addiction, as I do attend a 10 day piano camp in Vermont every year, and I’ve done so at least 6 times, and I do pile up repertoire pieces like there’s no tomorrow, and with all that Spanish inspiration, I’ll be doing a deep dive into Spanish classical piano repertoire, as I relive my Camino as I play Granados, Albeniz, de Falla, etc, and I’ll let my fingers to the walking!

This is a very interesting analogy with those of us who walk every year. It is a healthy activity that we have selected (or that has selected us) to include as a major element in our lives. Sounds great to me!

AlanSykes · Oct 1, 2024

HBS60 said:
when I hear about people doing 47 Caminos (I’m exaggerating the number) it’s a bit too much

You're not exaggerating, you're underestimating: Álvaro Lazaga, a popular video-blogger, is currently walking the Camino Aragonés, part of his 57th camino.

I love the idea of walking the caminos through music. Albéniz will take you on many a beautiful walk (with fingers or feet) on many less frequented caminos. The suite espagnole alone takes in the Norte, the Salvador and the Primitivo (Prélude), the Ebro and the Aragonés (Fantaisie), the Mozárabe (Serenade), the Vía de la Plata (Sevillana), the Vía Serrana (Saeta), the Català (Courante) and the Lana, Levante, Olvidado and Castellano-Aragonés (Séguédille).

Can't think of any of his works on Galicia or Vizcaya, oddly, but I expect there are some.

Camino Chrissy · Oct 1, 2024

Alan, I am totally amazed by your post!

HBS60 · Oct 1, 2024

C clearly said:
This is a very interesting analogy with those of us who walk every year. It is a healthy activity that we have selected (or that has selected us) to include as a major element in our lives. Sounds great to me!

Any activity can be taken to unhealthy extremes. My piano playing is therapeutic, but it can also be isolating, enabling me to avoid human interaction, and I’ve injured my elbows with tendinitis requiring cortisone shots from over-practicing. That was around the time I lost my SO to cancer, so it wasnt about enjoying the music, but about avoiding the emotional pain. Nothing inherently wrong with that, but it wasn’t healthy. The term “Camino Addict” has been mentioned in these boards, and I think there’s something to it. With that being said, there’s nothing wrong with fully and passionately enjoying pleasurable activities.

HBS60 · Oct 1, 2024

AlanSykes said:
You're not exaggerating, you're underestimating: Álvaro Lazaga, a popular video-blogger, is currently walking the Camino Aragonés, part of his 57th camino.

I love the idea of walking the caminos through music. Albéniz will take you on many a beautiful walk (with fingers or feet) on many less frequented caminos. The suite espagnole alone takes in the Norte, the Salvador and the Primitivo (Prélude), the Ebro and the Aragonés (Fantaisie), the Mozárabe (Serenade), the Vía de la Plata (Sevillana), the Vía Serrana (Saeta), the Català (Courante) and the Lana, Levante, Olvidado and Castellano-Aragonés (Séguédille).

Can't think of any of his works on Galicia or Vizcaya, oddly, but I expect there are some.

Aaahhhh!!! An Albéniz connoseur!!! He was more taken with Andalucía, but he also composed Navarra (which is a beast of a work that I’ve attempted to tackle), and Castilla, both of which were in my head as I walked through those areas, many times singing out the melodies when I was alone (I’m not a singer). As for Galicia, I was playing in my head the Danza Gallega by Granados, for cello and Piano, perfect for walking through the Galician forests.
One more musical selection that I’m starting to learn: the 3rd Novelette by French composer Francis Poulenc, because he based it on the Pantomime melody from El Amor Brujo, by Manuel de Falla. It gives the Spanish melody a French flavor, perfect for my days in SJPDP, where beyond the French Pyrenees mountains, Spain beckoned with unknown adventures yet to be experienced.
I plan to make a You Tube movie of my Camino using my recordings for the soundtrack, but I need to learn several pieces on my wish list. It will take me several months, plus the time needed for video editing, but stay tuned!

ETA: as for Vizcaya, being that’s in Basque Country, check out Zortzico, a Basque dance in 5/8 meter, in Albeniz’s suite España, op 165.

AlanSykes · Oct 1, 2024

HBS60 said:
the Pantomime melody from El Amor Brujo, by Manuel de Falla.

If you like de Falla (as I do), you should really walk the Camino Mozárabe. He transcribed many almost lost folklore songs in Almería and Granada provinces. On one memorable occasion in the 1920s he and his friend Lorca visited Guadix, partly to save a neglected 18th century harpsichord rotting in the cathedral, partly to pay homage to Guadix-born Pedro-Antonio de Alarcón, whose novel "El sombrero de tres picos" was the inspiration for de Falla's ballet - which Diaghilev had produced triumphantly a few years before (with a little help from Massine and Picasso). Lorca wrote about their visit: "España es inagotable a pesar de los norteamericanos que se la están llevando poco a poco".

HBS60 · Oct 1, 2024

AlanSykes said:
If you like de Falla (as I do), you should really walk the Camino Mozárabe. He transcribed many almost lost folklore songs in Almería and Granada provinces. On one memorable occasion in the 1920s he and his friend Lorca visited Guadix, partly to save a neglected 18th century harpsichord rotting in the cathedral, partly to pay homage to Guadix-born Pedro-Antonio de Alarcón, whose novel "El sombrero de tres picos" was the inspiration for de Falla's ballet - which Diaghilev had produced triumphantly a few years before (with a little help from Massine and Picasso). Lorca wrote about their visit: "España es inagotable a pesar de los norteamericanos que se la están llevando poco a poco".

I’ll add the Mozárabe to my list of possibilities. Is it longer than VdlP?
As for de Falla, I’m less familiar with his repertoire, however, on my very first day going from SJPDP to Orisson, I met this lovely Australian couple, and the lady happened to be a classical singer, and we started singing a couple of de Falla’s Popular songs (El Paño Moruno and Jota), it was a wonderful way to begin my Camino. I also have worked on learning the first Spanish dance from La Vida Breve, such a quintessential Spanish piece. If acoustic pianos were portable I would have taken one along on my Camino, but for now, my god-awful singing will have to do…

David Tallan · Oct 1, 2024

HBS60 said:
I didn’t think you were trying to imply that I should “pile up” Caminos. I do think that when I hear about people doing 47 Caminos (I’m exaggerating the number) it’s a bit too much and I wonder what’s really going on, but it’s not my place to judge if it’s something that brings them joy and fulfillment. Since I used to work in the substance abuse treatment field, I do tend to be wary about compulsively repeating something dysfunctionally. A common phrase in the recovery field is “one is too many, a thousand is not enough”, and a much simpler way of putting this would be “easy does it”, and “one day at a time”. I personally don’t a chemical addiction problem but working in this field for so long, I tend to see things through that lens. I will admit to a severe piano addiction, as I do attend a 10 day piano camp in Vermont every year, and I’ve done so at least 6 times, and I do pile up repertoire pieces like there’s no tomorrow, and with all that Spanish inspiration, I’ll be doing a deep dive into Spanish classical piano repertoire, as I relive my Camino as I play Granados, Albeniz, de Falla, etc, and I’ll let my fingers to the walking!

I used to say I had a reading addiction. If there was nothing else to read I would reread the back of a cereal box for the umpteenth time.

I think the key determiner about repeating something dysfunctionally is whether it is making your life better or worse. If it is improving your life, sounds good! If it is creating problems, you may have a problem.

The same applies to Caninos. If your Camino habit causes you to lose your job and then your family, that doesn't sound healthy to me. But if you go every year and people report that you come back more relaxed and grounded, better able to deal with the stresses of daily life, I would call it a hobby or passion rather than an addiction.

HBS60 · Oct 1, 2024

David Tallan said:
I used to say I had a reading addiction. If there was nothing else to read I would reread the back of a cereal box for the umpteenth time.

I think the key determiner about repeating something dysfunctionally is whether it is making your life better or worse. If it is improving your life, sounds good! If it is creating problems, you may have a problem.

The same applies to Caninos. If your Camino habit causes you to lose your job and then your family, that doesn't sound healthy to me. But if you go every year and people report that you come back more relaxed and grounded, better able to deal with the stresses of daily life, I would call it a hobby or passion rather than an addiction.

Agreed. It’s about how a behavior affects a person’s life. Sometimes it can be hard to tell as a person can have both benefits and detrimental effects simultaneously and that’s harder to tell apart. Like eating is nourishing but can also be detrimental. We in the field talk about the 3 Cs, that is, loss of control, compulsive use, and continuing the behavior or substance despite adverse consequences. It’s definitely a lot more complicated than that, and there are plenty of grey zones, It’s also easy to be in denial of the adverse consequences if/when we only perceive benefits. It’s a vast, complicated field which we still have much to learn about. I worry less about specific substances or behaviors and focus more on the motivations and effects.

Camo · Oct 3, 2024

David Tallan said:
But if you go every year and people report that you come back more relaxed and grounded, better able to deal with the stresses of daily life, I would call it a hobby or passion rather than an addiction.

So as you describe it it seems that the effect (whatever it is to an individual??) sort of "wears off" rather than provide a "one time solution" (to whatever??) and needs to be "topped up"

David Tallan · Oct 3, 2024

Camo said:
So as you describe it it seems that the effect (whatever it is to an individual??) sort of "wears off" rather than provide a "one time solution" (to whatever??) and needs to be "topped up"

I think that depends on the person.

C clearly · Oct 3, 2024

Camo said:
So as you describe it it seems that the effect (whatever it is to an individual??) sort of "wears off" rather than provide a "one time solution" (to whatever??) and needs to be "topped up"

David Tallan said:
I think that depends on the person.

And it depends on the "whatever" that is being addressed. And the person's history. And the specific circumstances. And maybe on the weather. There are not many one-time solutions to the problems of live.

trecile · Oct 3, 2024

Camo said:
So as you describe it it seems that the effect (whatever it is to an individual??) sort of "wears off" rather than provide a "one time solution" (to whatever??) and needs to be "topped up"

You are assuming that the reason people walk the Camino is to solve a problem. Some of us do it because we just love doing it!

JabbaPapa · Oct 3, 2024

HBS60 said:
I didn’t think you were trying to imply that I should “pile up” Caminos. I do think that when I hear about people doing 47 Caminos (I’m exaggerating the number) it’s a bit too much and I wonder what’s really going on, but it’s not my place to judge if it’s something that brings them joy and fulfillment. Since I used to work in the substance abuse treatment field, I do tend to be wary about compulsively repeating something dysfunctionally.

One doesn't much encounter those types here on the forums, but one does come across them occasionally out on the Camino. Thing is, they're on the Camino so often that they wouldn't have the time to contribute to a discussion forum nor any other normal activities, like playing the piano.

For most repeat offenders posting in here, I think walking the Camino is more long-distance hiking as a hobby, or as a retirement plan (instead of sitting at home doing nothing), or as an ongoing health improvement strategy ; than as a compulsive obsession.

We might make some self-deprecatory jokes about being Caminoholics etc., but I wouldn't take these ironic comments too seriously -- though they do refer to an underlying reality that there are in fact some people like that on the Camino.

HBS60 · Oct 3, 2024

(Moderator note: This post and some later ones have been moved from another thread.)

CWBuff said:
or both.
Most of us are foreigners to Spain and surely must understand that this is a different country with different customs and that no Spaniard should be expected to change their ways just because it does not suit us.

IMHO - all due considerations must be given to pros and cons before attempting to go on Camino. Once you step on it... ADAPT! and for the zillllionth time - it is a PILGRIMAGE!

I vividly remember that right before we started the actual Camino Inca the leader of the group pointed to the "start" line and told us - this is your moment to turn back if you have any final thoughts and doubts. Once you cross this line there IS no turning back

...and so it goes and there it went.

I did try to adapt. I wasn’t very good at it but I did try.

trecile · Oct 3, 2024

HBS60 said:
I did try to adapt. I wasn’t very good at it but I did try.

The important thing is that you persevered and made it to Santiago!

HBS60 · Oct 3, 2024

trecile said:
The important thing is that you persevered and made it to Santiago!

Thanks.
I’m glad I made it, but looking back, I regret having tried it, because I put myself through more stress than I should have. I am trying to process lots of issues that came up for me and while I’m proud that I got to finish it, I failed at many other things (of a personal nature) so I’m trying to deal with that. I’ll try to give it time so things might settle down,
Thanks again, much appreciated.

alexwalker · Oct 3, 2024

HBS60 said:
Thanks.
I’m glad I made it, but looking back, I regret having tried it, because I put myself through more stress than I should have. I am trying to process lots of issues that came up for me and while I’m proud that I got to finish it, I failed at many other things (of a personal nature) so I’m trying to deal with that. I’ll try to give it time so things might settle down,
Thanks again, much appreciated.

For many, after having become an experienced pilgrim, as you now are, the solution may be a second Camino, based on the experience you now possess.

It may not seem obvious right now, but you have to let your newfound experience sink in for some time.

Time and reflection iare good healers. At least, you have completed what many only dream about.

bestfootforward · Oct 3, 2024

"For most repeat offenders posting in here, I think walking the Camino is more long-distance hiking as a hobby, or as a retirement plan (instead of sitting at home doing nothing), or as an ongoing health improvement strategy ; than as a compulsive obsession"

I agree with you @JabbaPapa. For me, it's a lovely, organic way to experience a country, the people and culture, rather than the on-the-bus-off-the-bus goat rodeo. With Caminos all over the world, the slow travel experience is readily at hand...or foot. The following comes to mind:
Q: What's the difference between a tourist and a pilgrim?
A: A tourist passes through a country; a pilgrim let's a country pass through them

HBS60 · Oct 4, 2024

alexwalker said:
For many, after having become an experienced pilgrim, as you now are, the solution may be a second Camino, based on the experience you now possess.

It may not seem obvious right now, but you have to let your newfound experience sink in for some time.

Time and reflection iare good healers. At least, you have completed what many only dream about.

Thanks.
I know you mean well, but another Camino is the last thing in my mind. It would be retraumatizing. It will indeed take time and reflection to process what transpired.

I wasn’t wounded or traumatized this time around, just reminded of how little progress I’ve made in my personal growth quest. To put myself in that position again will be detrimental right now.

My inability to keep up with the people I met, failing to sustain the connections I did make (and being left behind) and my inability to figure out the food issues, as well as my inability to get my point across effectively, were very difficult for me to deal with and those are areas where I failed.

It’s not all negative, though. I thoroughly enjoyed the vistas, the landscapes, speaking my own language, meeting all kinds of people, and I’ll treasure the memory of my arrival at Santiago to the sound of the bagpiper and the cathedral bells.

It’s a lot to digest…

alexwalker · Oct 4, 2024

HBS60 said:
Thanks.
I know you mean well, but another Camino is the last thing in my mind. It would be retraumatizingIt will indeed take time and reflection to process what transpired.

It takes time, indeed. There are many threads about people who will never return, and a year later they are on it again.

HBS60 said:
I wasn’t wounded or traumatized this time around, just reminded of how little progress I’ve made in my personal growth quest. To put myself in that position again will be detrimental right now.

Right now is not the right time. Later. Give it time and reflection.

HBS60 said:
My inability to keep up with the people I met, failing to sustain the connections I did make (and being left behind) and my inability to figure out the food issues, as well as my inability to get my point across effectively, were very difficult for me to deal with and those are areas where I failed.

You haven't failed. You have been given a window to an alternative.

HBS60 said:
It’s not all negative, though. I thoroughly enjoyed the vistas, the landscapes, speaking my own language, meeting all kinds of people, and I’ll treasure the memory of my arrival at Santiago to the sound of the bagpiper and the cathedral bells.

Within a few months you may miss it. And thinking about a return. Head up.

HBS60 said:
It’s a lot to digest…

Absolutely. And it takes time to digest. Hang in there.

Camo · Oct 4, 2024

bestfootforward said:
For me, it's a lovely, organic way to experience a country, the people and culture, rather than the on-the-bus-off-the-bus goat rodeo.

Agreed but I think there is another category where one picks their OWN "slow organic way" to tour a location or series of locations. My question re Camino being ideal way has always been that the path was not chosen as being an AONB etc (eg the whole of the Cotswold Way) but "best fit" for going from A to B with main emphasis on B.

Now after spending over a year "walking" 4 or so Caminos on-the-screen I have to say there were very few sections that were not "of scenic/cultural interest"

CWBuff · Oct 4, 2024

HBS60 said:
Thanks.
I’m glad I made it, but looking back, I regret having tried it, because I put myself through more stress than I should have. I am trying to process lots of issues that came up for me and while I’m proud that I got to finish it, I failed at many other things (of a personal nature) so I’m trying to deal with that. I’ll try to give it time so things might settle down,
Thanks again, much appreciated.

I think way at the beginning of your walk I told you that you were too hard on yourself. In many ways we all fail at something so again don't be too hard. Think on what you have accomplished despite all your so-called shortcomings and the fails you point too.
Process whatever you need to process but that accomplishment you just can't take away...

Camo · Oct 4, 2024

HBS60 said:
We in the field talk about the 3 Cs,

Yes indeed and I was most moved by your solution against someone else "in the field" where you say you took a rock from their carpark and deposited it at that place at the high point of the Frances.

I am wondering "how does it feel" about a month later - has the anger gone?

Camo · Oct 4, 2024

C clearly said:
There are not many one-time solutions to the problems of live.(sic)

Well my own experience (and I fully respect yours) is that you betta get the corrective action right the first time or you are in for a very messy result that will only get messier with each attempt.

bestfootforward · Oct 4, 2024

Now after spending over a year "walking" 4 or so Caminos on-the-screen I have to say there were very few sections that were not "of scenic/cultural interest"

Very true @Camo. There's interest and beauty everywhere.

HBS60 · Oct 4, 2024

alexwalker said:
You haven't failed.

I appreciate the sentiment, thanks!

Thought-provoking question: what’s wrong with failure?

Failure is as much part of life as success, and it also deserves recognition. It can be a harsh, painful teacher, but much can be learned by recognizing it, facing it, dealing with it, learning from it.
Edison has been quoted as saying, after 1000 failed attempts to create the light bulb, as saying, “now I know of a 1000 ways it won’t work”

It’s not about being self-defeating, for me, it’s about learning what are my true limits, and about what work I need to do in order to grow. I can’t grow if I can’t or won’t recognize where I fall short. This, of course, doesn’t negate the embracing of success when it happens. I did reach Santiago,walking every single step of the way. I also failed in several personal (private) issues. Both are true, and they don’t negate each other.

HBS60 · Oct 4, 2024

CWBuff said:
I think way at the beginning of your walk I told you that you were too hard on yourself. In many ways we all fail at something so again don't be too hard. Think on what you have accomplished despite all your so-called shortcomings and the fails you point too.
Process whatever you need to process but that accomplishment you just can't take away...

Thank you, much appreciated.

I remember those days. I had all kinds of fears and concerns that were veré real to me. It wasn’t about being too hard on myself, (ok, maybe a little) but more about knowing myself and what I could and couldn’t handle. Turns out I saw many of my fears becoming true. While I’m glad I got through it all, I had my fears for reasons based on my prior experiences. I was willing to face these things, and I did, but I’ve been questioning the wisdom of why I tried something as huge like this.

I think time will tell, right now I’m in “processing” mode so I might come across as being all over the place.

I do remain appreciative for the support, encouragement, and the criticisms.

donalomahony · Oct 4, 2024

HBS60 said:
Danza Gallega

Loving the recommendation

HBS60 · Oct 4, 2024

Camo said:
Yes indeed and I was most moved by your solution against someone else "in the field" where you say you took a rock from their carpark and deposited it at that place at the high point of the Frances.

I am wondering "how does it feel" about a month later - has the anger gone?

Not really, although I’ve done lots of anger work around this, so it’s been better anyway. I wasn’t expecting this gesture to make much of a difference but I thought it was important for me to do it anyway. I imagine maybe with time I might be better able to recognize whether or not it made a difference.

HBS60 · Oct 4, 2024

donalomahony said:
Loving the recommendation

Glad you liked it! I wish I could find the score, but so far no luck. It would really help me relive those walks through the beautiful Galician forests!

JabbaPapa · Oct 4, 2024

HBS60 said:
My inability to keep up with the people I met, failing to sustain the connections I did make (and being left behind) and my inability to figure out the food issues, as well as my inability to get my point across effectively, were very difficult for me to deal with and those are areas where I failed.

Oh that's just the learning experience as such !!

Often, having done something is better than being in the midst of doing it.

Vancouver Rose · Oct 4, 2024

HBS60 said:
My inability to keep up with the people I met, failing to sustain the connections I did make (and being left behind) and my inability to figure out the food issues, as well as my inability to get my point across effectively, were very difficult for me to deal with and those are areas where I failed.

Oh, Hector ... I invite you to think about your so-called Failures from a different perspective: Like others, I'm not perfect, but my journey helped me see clearly some areas in which I need to do some work.
If someone completed the Camino without coming to that conclusion about one or more things, I'd be wondering how they could have spent so much time with themselves and not done any self-reflection. I think you clearly have in acknowledging that "Failure is as much part of life as success, and it also deserves recognition. It can be a harsh, painful teacher, but much can be learned by recognizing it, facing it, dealing with it, learning from it." Wishing you well in your lifelong journey of learning (and unlearning).

CWBuff · Oct 4, 2024

HBS60 said:
Glad you liked it! I wish I could find the score, but so far no luck. It would really help me relive those walks through the beautiful Galician forests!

here you go (might have to join in though)

Danza Gallega score

CWBuff · Oct 4, 2024

Vancouver Rose said:
Oh, Hector ... I invite you to think about your so-called Failures from a different perspective: Like others, I'm not perfect, but my journey helped me see clearly some areas in which I need to do some work.
If someone completed the Camino without coming to that conclusion about one or more things, I'd be wondering how they could have spent so much time with themselves and not done any self-reflection. I think you clearly have in acknowledging that "Failure is as much part of life as success, and it also deserves recognition. It can be a harsh, painful teacher, but much can be learned by recognizing it, facing it, dealing with it, learning from it." Wishing you well in your lifelong journey of learning (and unlearning).

Wholeheartedly agree 1500%

“Il nous faut de l'audace, encore de l'audace, toujours de l'audace!"

VNwalking · Oct 4, 2024

You overcame a lot on the camino and succeed! Sure it was hard. But not to give the struggle more power than it already has by dwelling on the places where you met limits. Backing down can often be wisdom.

HBS60 said:
It’s not about being self-defeating, for me, it’s about learning what are my true limits

HBS60 said:
maybe a little

Calling learning your limits 'failure' is more than a little harsh. You may not think you mean it, but that kind of language reinforces an identification with negativity.

Thing is, old conditioning won't go away. But it's not necessary to feed it. Kindly acknowledge and move forward (again and again) is how the ghosts become ccartoons.We have to be patient is all, because it's a process that never goes as fast as we wish it would.

C clearly · Oct 4, 2024

HBS60 said:
those are areas where I failed.

Yes. Most thoughtful people are acutely aware of their failings, but don't let them overshadow their successes.

Look again at the title of this thread!

Camo · Oct 5, 2024

HBS60 said:
but I’ve been questioning the wisdom of why I tried something as huge like this

Yes I was always keen to ask from WHERE you got the inspiration to go on a Camino but not sure if allowed - but now you have brought it up can you please explain how this all started?

VNwalking · Oct 5, 2024

I saw this on the Primitivo this year. I normally hate graffiti, but this is too good and too true to hate. A lesson for us all to remember. (The ️ is delta, change.)

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Hello. Earlier this year I saw photos of the streets being decorated for Corpus christi and I'm thinking that when I do my next camino, probably 2026, that it would be nice to help with the...

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