Walking sans "device".

[obinjatoo]

Just wondering if I am the only fool out there walking without an emailblogtabletphotouploadergooglemapfindergpsmusiclitupelectronicdevicethingythatneedstobepluggedineveryfewdays?

 

[Deleted member 3000]

No, but you might be in a very small minority!

 

[bystander]

......I know it is hard to believe, obinjatoo.etc...., but I understand some in antediluvian, possibly even in prelapsarian, times did exactly what you are suggesting.

I further understand that in order to arrive from their home departure points to their camino starts they hitched lifts on pterodactyls and for baggage carrying hung their packs on the boney spinal plates of stegosauruses !

But, obinjatoo (where the hell did you get that moniker from?), "a fool" ? NOT at all, probably a better and deeper experience of the Camino than all of us "techie" nerds!

 

[Tony Jansen]

Not me. I'm going to be available for a chitchat every night around sleepy time for my two and a half year old, my thirteen year old and my wife.

 

[MeganG22]

I left my phone in the U.S. when I walked in 2012. Didn't have a smartphone at the time and didn't want to pay for international anything. Used communal computers sometimes to email family and check in, otherwise went "unplugged." It wasn't for any significant reason, I just didn't want to have to worry about my phone.

This year I will bring my iPhone. Mostly to use as a camera, and also to keep in touch instead of paying to use computers. Neither way is better, it is just whatever works for each person.

 

[lettinggo]

Nope. You are not alone.

 

[jennie]

Just wondering if I am the only fool out there walking without an emailblogtabletphotouploadergooglemapfindergpsmusiclitupelectronicdevicethingythatneedstobepluggedineveryfewdays?

Just wondering if I am the only fool out there walking without an emailblogtabletphotouploadergooglemapfindergpsmusiclitupelectronicdevicethingythatneedstobepluggedineveryfewdays?

i hope there are more people like you about when i travel as i have noticed as wonderful as these fancy gadgets are they seem to require a lot of focused attention from their owners leaving less time for interaction from the real life person that may be sitting beside them,i will be taking my phone which is about as basic as you can get !my 4yr old niece threw it to one side saying it was broken cos nothing happened when she swiped her little finger across the screen

 

[Felipe]

Just wondering if I am the only fool out there walking without a printed book, this unwanted und ungainly German novelty that surely is going to disappear in some years. Nothing can replace our beloved scroll parchments!
(Upon a XV century graffiti, recently discovered in the basement of an old cathedral)

 

[bystander]

aaah, the palimpsest that is the camino...........

 

[Icacos]

Just wondering if I am the only fool out there walking without an emailblogtabletphotouploadergooglemapfindergpsmusiclitupelectronicdevicethingythatneedstobepluggedineveryfewdays?

Sounds wonderful! I wanted to do just that too. But I ended up taking an iPhone through which I maintained a very simple blog, took pictures, and posted daily for folks back home who were interested, and might want to know if I was still alive. Other than that, I had no doodads, but my Brierley guide.

 

[Felipe]

I carry only my camera. Not a matter of principle (I love e-gadgets). It is just that I try not to carry things that I should be worrying about, or that are not easily and inexpensively replaced.

 

[pilgrim b]

Ah the camera yes a must, the watch well in 2013 it stopped wouldn't go another second. The cell phone only rang once to ask if i was taking 2 for the price of one to the Wednesday cinema. I turned and ask a perfect stranger 50 metres behind me what day it was she looked towards the sky for a moment and said "Thursday! Hi I'm Jennie from Texas why do you ask. So pilgrim meets pilgrim no gismo's a new friendship is made and bliss is restored!

 

[Kanga]

Next I am taking nothing but the Segway.

 

[JoeNYC]

Next I am taking nothing but the Segway.

Cross thread humor. Love it!

 

[obinjatoo]

......I know it is hard to believe, obinjatoo.etc...., but I understand some in antediluvian, possibly even in prelapsarian, times did exactly what you are suggesting.

I further understand that in order to arrive from their home departure points to their camino starts they hitched lifts on pterodactyls and for baggage carrying hung their packs on the boney spinal plates of stegosauruses !

But, obinjatoo (where the hell did you get that moniker from?), "a fool" ? NOT at all, probably a better and deeper experience of the Camino than all of us "techie" nerds!

Should I encounter anything reptilian with a 20 foot wingspan, I'll most likely dive for cover before I ask it to transport my pack. As far as the moniker goes it's an old story that has to do with the early days of email, luddites and the font button. Should we be so fortunate to meet face to face one day, I'll tell you. I do love England and the UK. I never need much of an excuse to go there.

 

[C clearly]

If you are out there without a device, how have you managed to ask us the question here?

 

[Kanga]

If you are out there without a device, how have you managed to ask us the question here?

Two tin cans and a roll of string.

 

[NicoZ]

As far as the moniker goes it's an old story that has to do with the early days of email, luddites and the font button. .

Kids today are spoiled. We had the choice of B&W or W&B. I remember the fights over the first green terminal. Then the lovely amber showed up. Fonts? We never had luxury like that !!!

 

[Walk This Way]

This Luddite will not be carrying one

 

[Kiwi-family]

Taking a phone (and learning how to use it pre-departure) was the one condition my hubby had when he agreed for me to walk some remote routes alone with our youngest kids.
Then being able to viber him most days was what kept me sane - we had never been apart for three months before!
It became especially valuable when my daughter was harmed in India - the peace of mind that came from getting a message directly from her telling us all about her bad experience was immeasurable. I think I'd have been on the next plane to Mumbai if I had not been able to ascertain that she really was OK.

 

[Kanga]

It became especially valuable when my daughter was harmed in India - the peace of mind that came from getting a message directly from her telling us all about her bad experience was immeasurable. I think I'd have been on the next plane to Mumbai if I had not been able to ascertain that she really was OK.

Yes, and it works in reverse too - if I'm on Camino and needed home in a hurry, I want to know straight away. Otherwise I would not go at all. Everyone's circumstances are different.

 

[OzJacko]

It must be extremely difficult to eschew "modern" devices.
Where do you draw the line?
The Amish for example seem to have settled on somewhere in the 19th century.
In hiking do you draw the line at the date the mobile phone was invented, or when phones themselves were invented?
Do we want to draw the line at the 1940's when the root of all evil, television, was invented?
If so, do you use a canvas bag or external frame backpack and enamel steel cups?
Do you wear only cotton and wool clothing and heavy leather boots?
If coming from another country do you forego air travel and travel to Spain or France by boat?

Or do you just do what you want to do and make no judgements on the choices of others?

 

[Kanga]

Or do you just do what you want to do and make no judgements on the choices of others?

I agree, but don't read the thread as being judgmental, either for or against. It can be just a bit of fun to take the mickey out of either Luddites or Tech-heads! Making the point that only you and I have the balance exactly right....

 

[OzJacko]

I agree, but don't read the thread as being judgmental, either for or against. It can be just a bit of fun to take the mickey out of either Luddites or Tech-heads! Making the point that only you and I have the balance exactly right....

Oh believe me I am not reading the thread as being judgemental. I am just "taking the p###" on those who are.

 

[dougfitz]

It must be extremely difficult to eschew "modern" devices.
Where do you draw the line? ...
Do we want to draw the line at the 1940's when the root of all evil, television, was invented?

Or do you just do what you want to do and make no judgements on the choices of others?

Of course, taking the mickey out of others is so much more powerful when one gets the fact correct. Television was invented in the 1920s, with experimental stations broadcasting the in the US from the late 20's, and the 1936 Olympic Games broadcast in Berlin. Maybe that news didn't reach West Australia for a while, which might explain your confusion

 

[OzJacko]

Of course, taking the mickey out of others is so much more powerful when one gets the fact correct. Television was invented in the 1920, with experimental stations broadcasting the in the US from the late 20's, and the 1936 Olympic Games broadcast in Berlin. Maybe that news didn't reach West Australia for a while, which might explain your confusion

I'm sorry sir!
Quote from Wikipedia supports you "technically"....
"First commercially available in very crude form on an experimental basis in the late 1920s, then popularized in greatly improved form shortly after World War II, the television set has become commonplace in homes, businesses, and institutions, particularly as a vehicle for entertainment, advertising, and news. During the 1950s, television became the primary medium for molding public opinion.[1] In the mid-1960s, color broadcasting and sales of color television sets surged in the US and began in most other developed countries."
As the first ever broadcast in Australia was in Sydney in September 1956 I doubt that you would have been able to indulge yourself by watching the Berlin olympics in 1936, although I am sure that someone as wise and sage as yourself would have been around then.

Personally I have always thought of the start of television as being 1947. This stems from that great and wise sage Alfred E. Neuman. I recall an article in his wonderful magazine that discussed how God cured the boredom of Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden by inventing sex. And that sex was the all consuming passion of humanity until 1947 when television took over.

 

[valgongs]

I am definitely not taking my phone or a camera - a decision made right from the start of my planning for my first Camino and one which is wholly supported by my friends and family ... fortunately! I have decided to set up a separate email address only and will occasionally check that for messages. I fly four weeks tomorrow so will make the most of this forum in the meantime ...

 

[pilgrim b]

I'm sorry sir!
Quote from Wikipedia supports you "technically"....
"First commercially available in very crude form on an experimental basis in the late 1920s, then popularized in greatly improved form shortly after World War II, the television set has become commonplace in homes, businesses, and institutions, particularly as a vehicle for entertainment, advertising, and news. During the 1950s, television became the primary medium for molding public opinion.[1] In the mid-1960s, color broadcasting and sales of color television sets surged in the US and began in most other developed countries."
As the first ever broadcast in Australia was in Sydney in September 1956 I doubt that you would have been able to indulge yourself by watching the Berlin olympics in 1936, although I am sure that someone as wise and sage as yourself would have been around then.

Personally I have always thought of the start of television as being 1947. This stems from that great and wise sage Alfred E. Neuman. I recall an article in his wonderful magazine that discussed how God cured the boredom of Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden by inventing sex. And that sex was the all consuming passion of humanity until 1947 when television took over.

Never saw any TV on my camino in 2013 as for the sex mind your own business'.

 

[wanderwoman]

I'm taking my iPhone and my iPad...
Don't intend to sit around playing on them but so handy when away for long stretches!

This is a bit like confession!

iWanderwoman x

 

[miriamlea]

One or the other lighter the better!

 

[dougfitz]

Never saw any TV on my camino in 2013 as for the sex mind your own business'.

How did you avoid it (the TV, that is)? It was on in every bar that I visited, and never muted in the background.

 

[bystander]

Next I am taking nothing but the Segway.

Aah, the naturist's camino....
...."is it a bird, is it a plane?"....
No, just Kanga "flashing" past on a Segway

 

[Kanga]

Aah, the naturist's camino....
...."is it a bird, is it a plane?"....
No, just Kanga "flashing" past on a Segway

Gives new meaning to the phrase "from the skin out".....

 

[pilgrim b]

How did you avoid it (the TV, that is)? It was on in every bar that I visited, and never muted in the background.

Didn't look (at the TV, that is)? Too busy communicating with friends or sitting outside the bars dougfitz!

 

[MaryLynn]

Since my walks on the Camino Frances in 2011 and 2012, when I easily decided not to take my laptop, I have accumulated an iPhone and not one, but two iPads of different sizes. Last July I carried my full-size, heavy iPad and a keyboard on the Arles/Aragones Camino because I had read several places that wifi was 'everywhere' and I had planned to keep my family and friends updated on my walk on a new and different Camino. Wifi was not available everywhere--not at all. This year on the Camino Frances in September, I will once again walk without electronic devices (and without a novel) and will rely on finding a computer in albergues and bars when I want to keep in touch with family and friends. The Camino always provides what I need.

 

[xin loi]

The Amish for example seem to have settled on somewhere in the 19th century.!!!!!!!!!

Our local Amish do have cell phones and some now have computers. They are under the control of their local "Bishop" and some local Bishops have determined that their Congregation may use these devices but only if powered by Solar panels! And bet you did not know that there is a best selling self published author on Amazon who specializes in writing Amish Sci-Fy.

I took an Ipad on recent camino--got to use it about every 4th day as Wi-Fi is not very good or available in most albergues. Was really surprised how many people sit outside albergues EVERY evening in complete silence while they sent endless text messages on cell phones. I believe some of them never talked to another live person staying at the albergues.

 

[Tia Valeria]

Simple phone, simple digital camera, printed CSJ guide - nothing else needed or wanted. It is good to be away from 'over connection', but still able to reach family as needed.
Occasional use of cyber cafe computer but not really worried if there isn't any. TV good for the weather forecast - they usually get it right. (We actually watch it here in the UK at times; a) to keep up our Spanish; and b) to see what our weather is really likely to be.

 

[Dave2525]

Different strokes. Take what you like....or leave it all behind.

Nothing wrong with either approach.

 

[peregrina2000]

I know that we have many threads coming at this topic from all angles and with all levels of seriousness, and I really appreciate how people are staying off the judgment soap box.

In many ways this thread presents some of the same issues as the "shall I take a guidebook" threads. I remember some comments to the effect that -- I don't take a guidebook because I can just use everyone else's guidebook at night to plan my stage for the next day. This is fine, and I would never begrudge anyone the use of my guidebook (I just walked a chunk of the Frances unexpectedly and found that I had to ask for some guidebook help once or twice), but in many cases the "not taking a guidebook" or the "not taking any phone" people really are relying on the likelihood that others will help them out in a pinch. When there's an injury on the camino or a big problem of some kind, it's the people with cell phones who are able to help out. I know that all of us who carry these modern devices will happily help out when the situation calls for it, but I think that those who don't carry them should thank their lucky stars that there are so many of us who do. Buen camino, Laurie

 

[obinjatoo]

Wow! I had no idea the Pandora's Box that this post would open. I dont' have a judgment for or against, it was just what I was thinking. And to be clear the reason I'm not is that my I phone3 is on it's last legs, it's heavy, heats up when I charge it and it's just one more thing to keep track of. Believe me I'm not going for purist points... I can find some internet when I need it.

 

[Walk This Way]

Just keep walking. No worries about whether the person next to you is or is not using electronics
Don't like it? Walk faster

 

[Mary Kate]

Just wondering if I am the only fool out there walking without an emailblogtabletphotouploadergooglemapfindergpsmusiclitupelectronicdevicethingythatneedstobepluggedineveryfewdays?

I would love to go without any devices. When I first decided on the Camino that was my intention but as the time gets nearer I'm afraid to risk it (and I'm known as a bit of a Luddite to my friends). I even bought a paperbook guide so I have sure and instant access to it (and can write on it) though it's a bit heavy and was more expensive than the e-version! I'll take my smartphone which is just about useful as a basic phone since it supports fewer apps now and I don't want to upgrade it and it happens to have a camera - and I wouldn't care if anything happened to it. It's too small for any kind of journalling. My real struggle (don't laugh ) is that I want to take my small laptop (for writing, kindle and audio apps) - but with the weight involved I hope I'll have enough will power to leave it behind and take a paper notebook. Otherwise, I'll probably be sending it on to Santiago after two or three days . Who said a lot of choice is a good thing, it just makes me want to bury my head!
Mary

 

[bystander]

Somehow this all reminds me of the, probably urban myth, story of NASA researching and developing, at great expense, pens that would work in weightless conditions and the USSR sending their cosmonauts up with just a pencil and paper.

Each to their own.

49 years ago I hitchhiked around Europe with no more that my backpack (tent and sleeping bag), cash and a Michelin guide to camping sites. Even with that I spent a night on the back seat of a pre-Great War taxi on a scrap heap in one of the banlieu of Paris. Another occasion two nights under the Pont Neuf, alongside Moroccan homeless, again in Paris and another on a park bench until being awoken by being drenched by the automatic watering system!

Next Spring, at which time I will be very nearly 69, I intend to take all I can to survive and have, in terms of accommodation, a "cushy" and "solitary" time!

Walk I will, with my backpack. Socialise I will, and buy my round. Eat well, I intend to. But sleep, on my own with my own bathroom.

Roughing it? Been there, done it.

So if any gadget helps me achieve my aims I will be carrying it!

 

[obinjatoo]

Oh, but I do have a paper guide to the Tunnel Route. It would be fool hardy in this day and age to not at least take that. I'm sure there is someone out there that could counter that argument, counter away. The thing I'm not very good at is long term planning. I know I have to arrive in Granon on the 1st of September. That will keep me on track for that appointment. After that I'm pretty sure I would like to find my way to Santiago. But h

This Luddite will not be carrying one

Hey, you could NOT txt me and I could NOT text you and maybe we will meet up.

 

[obinjatoo]

I would love to go without any devices. When I first decided on the Camino that was my intention but as the time gets nearer I'm afraid to risk it (and I'm known as a bit of a Luddite to my friends). I even bought a paperbook guide so I have sure and instant access to it (and can write on it) though it's a bit heavy and was more expensive than the e-version! I'll take my smartphone which is just about useful as a basic phone since it supports fewer apps now and I don't want to upgrade it and it happens to have a camera - and I wouldn't care if anything happened to it. It's too small for any kind of journalling. My real struggle (don't laugh ) is that I want to take my small laptop (for writing, kindle and audio apps) - but with the weight involved I hope I'll have enough will power to leave it behind and take a paper notebook. Otherwise, I'll probably be sending it on to Santiago after two or three days . Who said a lot of choice is a good thing, it just makes me want to bury my head!
Mary

Awwww, you don't have to bury your head. I think for me the really important part of this is that I have to accept whatever the consequences of my decisions are. Whether good or bad positive or negative. I am ADHD and have a difficult time keeping track of things. It causes untold frustration. If I don't have I can't lose it. Or on the other hand everything else could disappear. I am not brave enough yet to go with nothing. Maybe someday. It's a matter of where our priorities lie and what is important to each of us as individuals. Besides it's really fun sending post cards to people. Especially in this day and age.

 

[Icacos]

I know that we have many threads coming at this topic from all angles and with all levels of seriousness, and I really appreciate how people are staying off the judgment soap box.

In many ways this thread presents some of the same issues as the "shall I take a guidebook" threads. I remember some comments to the effect that -- I don't take a guidebook because I can just use everyone else's guidebook at night to plan my stage for the next day. This is fine, and I would never begrudge anyone the use of my guidebook (I just walked a chunk of the Frances unexpectedly and found that I had to ask for some guidebook help once or twice), but in many cases the "not taking a guidebook" or the "not taking any phone" people really are relying on the likelihood that others will help them out in a pinch. When there's an injury on the camino or a big problem of some kind, it's the people with cell phones who are able to help out. I know that all of us who carry these modern devices will happily help out when the situation calls for it, but I think that those who don't carry them should thank their lucky stars that there are so many of us who do. Buen camino, Laurie

And I was just thinking that if it weren't for the Tech-heads out there right now, those of us sitting at home wouldn't know of the happenings on the various Caminos as they occur.

 

[Walk This Way]

Hey, you could NOT txt me and I could NOT text you and maybe we will meet up.

As people have every day in life, and along the Camino for thousands of years

 

[dougfitz]

Didn't look (at the TV, that is)? Too busy communicating with friends or sitting outside the bars dougfitz!

That might have been the difference - I walked CI alone, and had a wonderfully quiet time, but it also gave me time in bars to be distracted by the game shows and the football.

 

[fraluchi]

It must be extremely difficult to eschew "modern" devices.
Where do you draw the line?

Should we imagine drones scouting pilgrim waiting lines at albergues before 1pm.? Monitor pilgrim crowds between destinations? Wear helmets in case of overhead drone crashes?

 

[dougfitz]

I'm sorry sir!
Quote from Wikipedia supports you "technically"....
...
Personally I have always thought of the start of television as being 1947. This stems from that great and wise sage Alfred E. Neuman. I recall an article in his wonderful magazine that discussed how God cured the boredom of Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden by inventing sex. And that sex was the all consuming passion of humanity until 1947 when television took over.

@OzJacko - what a wonderfully interesting defence for basically being wrong, although I had some sympathy for your dedication to the veracity of Alfred E. Neumann as a source of wisdom. I don't think my reliance on facts will ever trump that!

 

[OzJacko]

@OzJacko - what a wonderfully interesting defence for basically being wrong, although I had some sympathy for your dedication to the veracity of Alfred E. Neumann as a source of wisdom. I don't think my reliance on facts will ever trump that!

Well there you have a difference between us Doug.
You like facts such as the fact that television existed since the 1920's, and I like the reality that television as we know it only really existed since the 1940's.

Oh by the way, news reaches WA at the same time as the eastern states. But in this case it was already archived before I got my TV.

 

[Walk This Way]

Book suggestion: Four Arguements for the Elimination of Television by Jerry Mander
His followup: In the Absence of the Sacred
New perspective an adventure in itself

 

[Mary Kate]

And I was just thinking that if it weren't for the Tech-heads out there right now, those of us sitting at home wouldn't know of the happenings on the various Caminos as they occur.

So true! I really appreciate this forum and access to it from anywhere.

 

[trevorcc]

Last year I did not have a phone, when I ended up in hospital for 8 days and at one stage the hospital told my wife they could not find me pure panick broke out back home, all sorted in the end. No way is she letting me go next month without one for emergencies as I use the Ipad via viber to keep in touch but some places for days do not have wifi so a phone it is.

 

[Gillyweb]

Besides it's really fun sending post cards to people. Especially in this day and age.

I have this wonderful app that makes real postcards out of my photographs !! I choose, add, press send and hey presto, my family and friends get them two days later. No stamps, and no hunting for post offices in deepest El Ganzo...

 

[dreamwalker]

Nope. You are not alone.

I wanted to unplug completely on my way, but children got us an ipod touch and a shuffle. today I get to understand how it works. I guess it's safer to email on it than on a public computer. Hopefully, it takes nice pictures.

 

[Heidi67]

Just wondering if I am the only fool out there walking without an emailblogtabletphotouploadergooglemapfindergpsmusiclitupelectronicdevicethingythatneedstobepluggedineveryfewdays?

Haha! No, your not. Feeling stubborn, though...

 

[LesBrass]

Perhaps I'm just feeling grumpy because I've got an eye infection and a headache... but I don't really like these kind of threads.

I know many have said that this is not intended to be judgemental but I am reminded of the Monty Python sketch... The "Four Yorkshiremen" sketch is a parody of nostalgic conversations about humble beginnings or difficult childhoods. Four Yorkshiremen reminisce about their upbringing, and as the conversation progresses, they try to outdo one another, their accounts of deprived childhoods becoming increasingly absurd.

I'm sorry if I have misunderstood... really I am... but I just don’t understand why? No-one post about not travelling to their start in a car/train/plane... no one post saying they're only using authentic mediaeval medicines... I do feel a little judged, I'm sorry I dont really find it amusing and I just don’t understand the point of the thread?

Why does this particular peice of modern technology (which is so very often misunderstood) offend so many people... I do wonder if this kind of thread could make some folks hesitant in asking questions about devices. There are loads of useful apps and ebooks that folks could use... loads and loads to learn for a novice. I'd love to know more from folks that have used their phone as a camera... ask about the amount of data folks have used and downloaded... just general tips and advice... but I dont because of this kind of thread.

What am I missing?

 

[Tia Valeria]

I think it is just another thread that has strayed from the OP's intention.

 

[lettinggo]

Perhaps I'm just feeling grumpy because I've got an eye infection and a headache... but I don't really like these kind of threads.

I know many have said that this is not intended to be judgemental but I am reminded of the Monty Python sketch... The "Four Yorkshiremen" sketch is a parody of nostalgic conversations about humble beginnings or difficult childhoods. Four Yorkshiremen reminisce about their upbringing, and as the conversation progresses, they try to outdo one another, their accounts of deprived childhoods becoming increasingly absurd.

I'm sorry if I have misunderstood... really I am... but I just don’t understand why? No-one post about not travelling to their start in a car/train/plane... no one post saying they're only using authentic mediaeval medicines... I do feel a little judged, I'm sorry I dont really find it amusing and I just don’t understand the point of the thread?

Why does this particular peice of modern technology (which is so very often misunderstood) offend so many people... I do wonder if this kind of thread could make some folks hesitant in asking questions about devices. There are loads of useful apps and ebooks that folks could use... loads and loads to learn for a novice. I'd love to know more from folks that have used their phone as a camera... ask about the amount of data folks have used and downloaded... just general tips and advice... but I dont because of this kind of thread.

What am I missing?

Well, I also feel grumpy today and normally never involve myself in threads or reply forum users who, in my opinion, are confrontational or judgmental on other forum users behavours.
If you don't like a thread, the best thing is just to ignore it. That way it will soon enough disappear.
There are numerous threads related to this very question on the forum, and they seem to display the different views people have on taking or leaving phones,tablets,electronics at home.
This forum promotes individuals to express their experience or thoughts about Camino De Santiago.
*Where experienced pilgrims share and novice pilgrims learns*, well, something like that.
In my opinion there is absolutely not a thing wrong with going on a camino WITHOUT electronics!
It can be a wonderful experience and something new in comparison with todays more or less normal living with smart phones, internet, staying connected and on schedule each and every day.
Back in the 70's and 80', I traveled as a youth and back then we never phoned home, as it was way to expensive, so we wrote a couple of postcards, which most often arrived after we ourselves were back home.
To completely unplug can be liberating but also difficult.
Luckily, in my experience, there is available internet in almost all towns along the way, so opting to leave phone home, can be translated to * don't call me, I will call you*.
In my opinion, there is EQUALLY nothing wrong with going WITH electronics.
If it feels right to be reachable and keep in touch with family, friends,.. via phone, twitter, blog, whatnot.., then that is the right thing to do!
The phone may even be part of helping or supporting a fellow pilgrim. The use and help it may provide is indiscutable.
There is not a single way to view this question.
Each to their own way to do it, is how I see it.

What I do react on is that, to me, the people option to go 'sans device', is relaxed and maybe a little nervous about it.
This is why they start a thread. To get second opinions and thoughts on their decision to go with or without devices.
In no way, I read this as being judgmental on other pilgrims choices.
There is nothing 'better', 'original', 'authentic', about it.
It is just another way to have a camino experience.
But the experience I have from other threads is, that people who wants to walk with their device, feel offended or confronted by it.
Don't.
No one other than YOU knows what is best for you.
Family, medical history, work, old parents, young children, pet parrot who needs to hear your voice...

I don't know.. Just, needed to steam off a bit. Lately I'v been reading about improving the camino, smoking out door, electric coil,...
Many issues that I could have an opinion on... But this one..makes sense for me!
For one month of your life, unconnect (you won't as it is almost impossible today), take a long walk, focus on the now, the people around you,
spend some time focusing on being where you are.
I believe that is can be a great help to discover what one needs and what one does not need.
There you have it.
It is just my experience and I guess my forum name suggest some of what I have written.
No offense meant.

Lettinggo

 

[Esther Boe]

This Luddite will not be carrying one

I haven't seen the word ....Luddite......since college. Love it. New inventions taking the jobs from otherwise skilled laborers. I just love this forum!

 

[C clearly]

I haven't seen the word ....Luddite......since college. Love it. New inventions taking the jobs from otherwise skilled laborers. I just love this forum!

If you search on the forum you will find "Luddite" used 24 times!

 

[dreamwalker]

Well, I also feel grumpy today and normally never involve myself in threads or reply forum users who, in my opinion, are confrontational or judgmental on other forum users behavours.
If you don't like a thread, the best thing is just to ignore it. That way it will soon enough disappear.
There are numerous threads related to this very question on the forum, and they seem to display the different views people have on taking or leaving phones,tablets,electronics at home.
This forum promotes individuals to express their experience or thoughts about Camino De Santiago.
*Where experienced pilgrims share and novice pilgrims learns*, well, something like that.
In my opinion there is absolutely not a thing wrong with going on a camino WITHOUT electronics!
It can be a wonderful experience and something new in comparison with todays more or less normal living with smart phones, internet, staying connected and on schedule each and every day.
Back in the 70's and 80', I traveled as a youth and back then we never phoned home, as it was way to expensive, so we wrote a couple of postcards, which most often arrived after we ourselves were back home.
To completely unplug can be liberating but also difficult.
Luckily, in my experience, there is available internet in almost all towns along the way, so opting to leave phone home, can be translated to * don't call me, I will call you*.
In my opinion, there is EQUALLY nothing wrong with going WITH electronics.
If it feels right to be reachable and keep in touch with family, friends,.. via phone, twitter, blog, whatnot.., then that is the right thing to do!
The phone may even be part of helping or supporting a fellow pilgrim. The use and help it may provide is indiscutable.
There is not a single way to view this question.
Each to their own way to do it, is how I see it.

What I do react on is that, to me, the people option to go 'sans device', is relaxed and maybe a little nervous about it.
This is why they start a thread. To get second opinions and thoughts on their decision to go with or without devices.
In no way, I read this as being judgmental on other pilgrims choices.
There is nothing 'better', 'original', 'authentic', about it.
It is just another way to have a camino experience.
But the experience I have from other threads is, that people who wants to walk with their device, feel offended or confronted by it.
Don't.
No one other than YOU knows what is best for you.
Family, medical history, work, old parents, young children, pet parrot who needs to hear your voice...

I don't know.. Just, needed to steam off a bit. Lately I'v been reading about improving the camino, smoking out door, electric coil,...
Many issues that I could have an opinion on... But this one..makes sense for me!
For one month of your life, unconnect (you won't as it is almost impossible today), take a long walk, focus on the now, the people around you,
spend some time focusing on being where you are.
I believe that is can be a great help to discover what one needs and what one does not need.
There you have it.
It is just my experience and I guess my forum name suggest some of what I have written.
No offense meant.

Lettinggo

All I wanted to do was to "let go" of secular life while on the Camino. Probably that's why I posted about this ipod touch. Don't want it but have it. All my children are pushing me to take it. I did want to get lost for a while. I told the fam - if you don't hear from me, everythings okay! I still haven't turned it on..

 

[Saint Mike II]

Next I am taking nothing but the Segway.

Isn't that cheating? And you looked down on me for considering using a bike???

 

[Kanga]

Isn't that cheating? And you looked down on me for considering using a bike???

No! I have great admiration for bike riders. Am always glued to Le Tour in season. Just don't want to/can't do it myself. Well, I'm fond of riding pillion on a motor bike but my spouse has not yet managed to convince me it is a good means of doing the Camino (he's tried).
Did talk to a girl who biked the Camino and then walked it. She said given enough time and money she preferred walking because riding required much more concentration. She saw a lot more walking.
I think it's horses for courses. We walked the Canal du Midi but it would have been better on a bike.

 

[JennyH94]

I would love to go without any devices. When I first decided on the Camino that was my intention but as the time gets nearer I'm afraid to risk it (and I'm known as a bit of a Luddite to my friends). I even bought a paperbook guide so I have sure and instant access to it (and can write on it) though it's a bit heavy and was more expensive than the e-version! I'll take my smartphone which is just about useful as a basic phone since it supports fewer apps now and I don't want to upgrade it and it happens to have a camera - and I wouldn't care if anything happened to it. It's too small for any kind of journalling. My real struggle (don't laugh ) is that I want to take my small laptop (for writing, kindle and audio apps) - but with the weight involved I hope I'll have enough will power to leave it behind and take a paper notebook. Otherwise, I'll probably be sending it on to Santiago after two or three days . Who said a lot of choice is a good thing, it just makes me want to bury my head!
Mary

Hi Mary - if you do end up just taking a paper notebook for journaling, have the hospitaleros stamp your journal entry for the day with their albergue's sello - makes your journal even more special. This fabulous idea was passed on by Ailsa Piper, a wonderful Australian author, in her book "Sinning Across Spain" (a top read quite apart from useful tips!).
Cheers - Jenny

 

[Mary Kate]

Hi Mary - if you do end up just taking a paper notebook for journaling, have the hospitaleros stamp your journal entry for the day with their albergue's sello - makes your journal even more special. This fabulous idea was passed on by Ailsa Piper, a wonderful Australian author, in her book "Sinning Across Spain" (a top read quite apart from useful tips!).
Cheers - Jenny

Hi Jenny
That's a great idea. Thanks.
Mary

 

[Walk This Way]

If you search on the forum you will find "Luddite" used 24 times!

Well, there are quite a few of us perhaps......maybe next year a group hike sans contrivances.

All I wanted to do was to "let go" of secular life while on the Camino. .....- if you don't hear from me, everythings okay! I still haven't turned it on..

Smart lady, your choice, your life, your Camino. No pressure.

 

[obinjatoo]

I´m on a computer in Burgos reading e mails. I just wanted to let people know that walking without a device has been incredibly liberating. So if you are wondering, you will not miss much by leaving it at home.
Ultreia!

 

[Deleted member 3000]

I´m on a computer in Burgos reading e mails. I just wanted to let people know that walking without a device has been incredibly liberating.

There is some irony in that!!!

 

[Finisterre]

I am judgemental. Solitude is important. I think phones and other non medical devices should be left at home. Cameras too. Wandering along and plugged into a virtual world negates the experience ime and imo. You may as well go walking every day from home.

Just saying.

 

[unadara]

From recent experience on the Via de la Plata. Maura carried a "basic" phone, she received txt msg or calls at night. Dave carried his iphone, (heavy SLR PRO camera) etc....I carried a new Android phone with Internet access to blog and my bridge Fuji camera (love it)....Dave left his Camera in his over weight rucksack (and yes he got tendonitis), there was a funny story too of blowing fuses/using wrong adapters.... I struggled with new phone using up credit, leaving behind chargers etc etc....and Maura used a PC yes! in an Alberque to book her flight home. If I can I will travel "sans devices" except for essential family contact.

 

[Mark Lee]

Honestly, if you walk without an IPhone, smartphone, small tablet etc, are you really escaping from distractions or distancing yourself from modern technology? After-all, it was a train, plane or automobile that brought you to the Camino. In all likelihood your clothes and footwear are synthetic. The trappings are all around us.
I carried a smartphone. Never had it on while walking and never talked on it while walking. Did come in handy for photos and sending emails to the peeps back home letting them know I'm OK and where I was and they really enjoyed the photos of the Camino I sent them while doing it. Very enjoyable sharing the Camino experience that way with folks back home.

 

[NicoZ]

I am judgemental. Solitude is important. I think phones and other non medical devices should be left at home. Cameras too. Wandering along and plugged into a virtual world negates the experience ime and imo. You may as well go walking every day from home.

Just saying.

Honestly I can't think of a photographer who doesn't see more when carrying his camera then the average person does when not carrying a camera.

I do find it strange mentioning the importance of solitude and then complaining about the virtual world. The usual complaint with the online is that it is solitude. I get the impression most of those against "devices" are looking to avoid solitude.

 

[fraluchi]

Just wondering if I am the only fool out there walking without an emailblogtabletphotouploadergooglemapfindergpsmusiclitupelectronicdevicethingythatneedstobepluggedineveryfewdays?

No you aren't nor will be. Wait for the iPhone-6 pilgrims turning up before long.

 

[bystander]

Aren't photos, sketches and jotted notes no more than prompters of memories for future reflection and recollection?
I know from past travels the few photographs and the writings that I made have brought to mind more than just relying on mere memory.
Sometimes a quick happy-snappy that you did not put in the album of your trip provokes more memories than the perfectly composed one of which you are so proud.