Why should you Over-Night before SJPdP

[aname4me]

Long flights and time-change have always affected my digestion.
I am not talking about getting sick from - recycled cabin air, germs/bacteria in food/water.

My gateway to SJPdP has been... flight to Barcelona, train to Pamplona, bus to SJPdP
I am talking - Stress of Travel, poor quality Sleep (if any), 6 hours of Time Change, and Dehydration.

Over the next several days, I may experience Constipation, and/or/then Diarrhea.

On my first Camino, it became VERY clear, that there are less then a handful of washrooms between SJPdP and Roncesvalles.

My solution (on our 2nd Camino) was to spend two nights (a full day) in Pamplona.
This allowed my body time to “adjust”.

What helped me on my 3rd Camino was...
before I left Home:
-a big bowl of Oatmeal (easy to digest, has roughage)
-bring Carrots and homemade Brand Muffins for the trip (easy to digest, has roughage)
-(and the big one) drink lots and lots of water before, during, after the flights.
Note: You're about to spend five weeks using Public Washroom. You may as well get started early.

This made a big difference.

I am now planning my 4th Camino and still intend to stay two nights (a full day) in Pamplona.
This still helps to adjust for time change.
Spending a full day in Pamplona allows me to:
-get a Spanish Sim Card
-get items that are not Carry-On compatible.
Small scissors
Pocket knife w/ corkscrew
Hiking Poles
-mail my real set of clothes/shoes to Santiago for when I arrive.

If you are Retired... You should think of a day or two to adjust.
If you are stuffing a 5 week walk into 4 weeks... to bad. Adjust on the trail (actually, beside the trail)

 

[SabsP]

Also it is not set in stone that you should start in Saint Jean, lots of pilgrims ( especially Spanish ones ) start in Pamplona.

 

[Anamiri]

I have always been constrained by time but would love the luxury to have some time beforehand in SJPDP and Bayonne to look around first.

 

[RJM]

If you get to Saint Jean early enough, an early bed time is enough to get you on track for the next morning's walk to Roncesvalles.
If you get to Saint Jean late, say early evening may be best to sleep in late the next morning, get a good breakfast and only walk to Orisson or ValCarlos (assuming either has open beds).
That's for the pilgrims with the really long flights. Over 12 hours or so.

 

[MisterH]

On my most recent trip I intentionally stayed two nights in Saint Jean. It is a nicd tiwn frpof relaxed walking around and gave me time, if needed, to solve airline "problems". It turned out that I didn't need the time, but walking around Saint Jean was OK.

 

[TheLazyPilgrim]

Interesting food for thought - thanks to the OP.

I have never been to Europe in my life - I plan on landing in Paris and spending two nights there before catching a bus to SJPdP. I should arrive with enough time to have a look around SJPdP before sundown and I plan on leaving for Roncesvalles at around 7:00am the following morning. Does everyone think that 2 nights in Paris will be enough time to adjust?

 

[C clearly]

Does everyone think that 2 nights in Paris will be enough time to adjust?

You didn't say where you are coming from. Every person and every trip is different, so it is impossible to predict. Your plan sounds fine to me!

 

[TheLazyPilgrim]

You didn't say where you are coming from. Every person and every trip is different, so it is impossible to predict. Your plan sounds fine to me!

Apologies - I'll be coming from Australia; a small island nation plopped somewhere in the Pacific Ocean where travelling on foot is never an option (what with all the wildlife). Fingers crossed you're right!

 

[Anamiri]

That gives you lots of time to see Paris too, the cool thing about Paris that a lot of the 'attractions' are all within walking distance if you are staying centrally. I'm quite envious.

 

[GaryAus]

I flew Brisbane to Singapore, Singapore - Paris, Paris - Bayonne, about 40 hours of travelling. Then next day Bayonne to SJPP on the train and then walked 12kms to Valcarlos. Both of these plans were mistakes. I pushed too hard to get there, and gave myself no time to get over jet-lag. I didn't feel rested for 5-7 days after SJPP and took a rest day in Pamplona. Those first few days of walking were much harder than they needed to be becuase I wasn't rested. Would never do it that way again, and would break the trip in either Paris (or wherever you land in Europe) and maybe have an extra day in SJPP to help with jet-lag.

 

[Terri B]

After flying Australia to Paris and then trains from the airport to SJPdP arriving late afternoon. I eased my way in by spending 2 nights there before walking to Orison day 1 then to Ronscenvalles for day 2. Helped with the jet lag and time difference.

 

[kelleymac]

Interesting food for thought - thanks to the OP.

I have never been to Europe in my life - I plan on landing in Paris and spending two nights there before catching a bus to SJPdP. I should arrive with enough time to have a look around SJPdP before sundown and I plan on leaving for Roncesvalles at around 7:00am the following morning. Does everyone think that 2 nights in Paris will be enough time to adjust?

Two nights will probably be plenty. You could also cut the costs by getting out of Paris right away. Or you could begin your pilgrimage immediately by taking part of Adoration at Sacre Couer, spending the night there. (Perpetual adoration is a Catholic thing.. though, I would think other christians could take part.)

My son and I flew into Paris from Toronto (6 hour difference), spent one day looking around Paris (we put our packs in lockers at the train station), and then we took the night train to Bayonne. We arrived in Bayonne early in the morning, where we had time to visit the cathedral (get our credential stamped), stop for breakfast, and buy some bread and cheese at a morning market, and visit a museum. Then we hopped on the train to SJPP, checked in at the pilgrims' office, had a picnic lunch and walked to Orrison in the afternoon. It was a short uphill climb, but being jet lagged, it was long enough. The next day was short too-- we stopped at Roncevalles.

 

[aname4me]

Before I Retired.... I would fly to a Caribbean AI resort. After a day or two I would be suffering from Constipation and/or/then Diarrhea.
I always blamed the Resort. Their Food, their Booze, their Water.

Since I've retired, and I travel more.
I now have it narrowed down to Me, and the Travel itself.

As much as I look forward to, and enjoy Travel, it is Stressful, and Stress contributes to Constipation and/or/then Diarrhea.

The Airport and Air Travel are Stressful.
Smiling faces that tell you your bag is 0.3Kg overweight.
Waiting in lines.
Security Searches.
Then.... sit, sit, sit, sit.

In the Airplane, the cabin is pressurized to simulate an altitude of 5,000 to 8,000 feet,
Low Pressure. Low Oxygen. Low (really low) Humidity.
You can Google “dehydration on airplane”

Dehydration causes Constipation.


What I have learned that helps me....
Watch what you eat and drink just before and during your Travels.
Eat easy to digest, higher in fiber foods (bring your own).
Easy on the Coffee, Tea, and Booze (better.. none at all)
Drink lots, and Lots, and LOTS of Water.
When the Stewart offers you water... pass her your empty water bottle.


I now arrive from my flights, in much better condition.
But, I still stay 2 nights before starting my Camino Walk

Your body also needs time to recover from low Oxygen on the flight, and the 6-12 hours of time change.

Imagine.... if your Boss called you up at 7PM and said...
I need you at work right now.
You have to sit in a chair all night, bring a book.
Tomorrow, I need you to work a full day, then sleep with 20 other people (6 snore really loud).
The next day, I need you to walk 25Km over a mountain range.


If you have made a long flight to get to Europe, then the City you landed in, will have more History then your entire Country. Why not take a day to to enjoy it (and rest a little).
The Camino will still be there, and you will enjoy it even more.

 

[Stivandrer]

I salute your conclusion of a tardy entry into the walking mode.
This year I had three morning portions of my favourite oatmeal/müsli mix for this very purpose of respecting my tummy when hit by traveling stress.
I felt like a fool but I savoured my three mornings....

 

[Theresa Ruttger]

Last year we started without rest from St. Jean and I thought I was going to die! 36 hours awake and 8 hour time difference along with being "of a certain age." It was pure stupidity to start right away. This year we took a day to adjust and had no problems on the trail. Next year's trip we're planning one day (at least). It makes all the difference in the world

 

[GailGwyn]

Two nights will probably be plenty. You could also cut the costs by getting out of Paris right away. Or you could begin your pilgrimage immediately by taking part of Adoration at Sacre Couer, spending the night there. (Perpetual adoration is a Catholic thing.. though, I would think other christians could take part.)

My son and I flew into Paris from Toronto (6 hour difference), spent one day looking around Paris (we put our packs in lockers at the train station), and then we took the night train to Bayonne. We arrived in Bayonne early in the morning, where we had time to visit the cathedral (get our credential stamped), stop for breakfast, and buy some bread and cheese at a morning market, and visit a museum. Then we hopped on the train to SJPP, checked in at the pilgrims' office, had a picnic lunch and walked to Orrison in the afternoon. It was a short uphill climb, but being jet lagged, it was long enough. The next day was short too-- we stopped at Roncevalles.

Hi, could you give me some info on the night train from Paris to Bayonne please? Was it a sleeper with berths?

 

[kelleymac]

Hi, could you give me some info on the night train from Paris to Bayonne please? Was it a sleeper with berths?

Yes, it is a sleeper with berths. I just checked with SNCF-- The train leaves Gare d'Austerlitz at 22:06, arriving in Bayonne at 10:30. So the time is different than the one I took-- I arrived before the market opened. It costs about 91 euro. -- I think I bought ours with a special sale on a French rail pass..

 

[GailGwyn]

Yes, it is a sleeper with berths. I just checked with SNCF-- The train leaves Gare d'Austerlitz at 22:06, arriving in Bayonne at 10:30. So the time is different than the one I took-- I arrived before the market opened. It costs about 91 euro. -- I think I bought ours with a special sale on a French rail pass..

Thank you. Trying to decide whether to fly from UK to Paris, then train to Bayonne, or train all the way.

 

[kelleymac]

Thank you. Trying to decide whether to fly from UK to Paris, then train to Bayonne, or train all the way.

It is cheaper to take the 4 hr train, but our flight from Toronto landed about noon, and the trains we could get wouldn't get us in to Bayonne till after the last train to SJPP, and quite late in the evening. So we'd be overnighting in either Paris or Bayonne. -- Also, I decided to get us a 1st Class French rail pass, as they were on sale, and I thought it would be nice to be in a 4 berth compartment instead of a 6 berth. Only to find that there are no 1st class compartments on the train. Even though I made a 1st class reservation.

 

[Scott54]

I’m on the Camino Frances right now and did exactly as aname4 described. I was pretty certain that the time change (I flew from Seattle), lack of good sleep and several days of walking and shocking my feet would warrant benefit a rest day for sleep and a slow stroll around Pamplona. (Which was terrific.) I restarted a day later with my feet, legs and brain rested. The only “price” I paid was feeling left behind as the albergue emptied and new friends moved on. But I’d do it that way again.

 

[Chrisp]

Apologies - I'll be coming from Australia; a small island nation plopped somewhere in the Pacific Ocean where travelling on foot is never an option (what with all the wildlife). Fingers crossed you're right!

Haha! A Lazy Pilgrim and funny As a ‘fella’ islander, I’d add that unless you’re travelling business class, I don’t think just 2-days is enough time to adjust to the time difference. I’d opt for another night in St. Jean Pied de Port. Mind you, I’m obviously much older than you!!!

 

[Devereaux]

This is great advice and I'm taking it! Staying overnight in Pamplona (with a hostal room-hey, it's "pre-Camino"), getting up late, bussing to SJPP and staying in Orisson. Slow start for this Ole Guy!

 

[Marina Millar]

I read all these entries with intense interest as my hubbyJim and I plan for our Camino Frances next March/April. It’s all so individual and dependent on the trail as to how we have pulled up from long haul flights. Having looked at the SJPP-Roncevaux hike- I am opting for the Paris one nighter the 6hr zone out on the train before aSJPDP rest up, a Canard confit dinner and heave ho up that hill...

 

[Thornley]

I have never been to Europe in my life - I plan on landing in Paris and spending two nights there before catching a bus to SJPdP.

Get to Bayonne as quick as you can on that day of landing
Stay in a good hotel and relax , its a great town.
Next day early train to StJPP , wander around and stay the night .
Depending on time of year next day Orisson or Valcarlos.
Then Burguete , 4 km past Roncesvalles [ great accommodation]......then Hotel Akerreta [ 1km past Larrasoana ] then a lovely 13km walk along the river to Pamplona where you spend all day and enjoy the tapas scene before bed.....in a good pension.
First days can do the damage mate , take the Vaseline and take your time.
Think of The Melbourne Cup ... early on , go easy .......get into a nice rhythm .......and have a bit of luck.
You collect 800km later.
Put away a few extra $$ NOW to spend on your self at the above stop overs.
Have a great Camino .

 

[Marina Millar]

Get to Bayonne as quick as you can on that day of landing
Stay in a good hotel and relax , its a great town.
Next day early train to StJPP , wander around and stay the night .
Depending on time of year next day Orisson or Valcarlos.
Then Burguete , 4 km past Roncesvalles [ great accommodation]......then Hotel Akerreta [ 1km past Larrasoana ] then a lovely 13km walk along the river to Pamplona where you spend all day and enjoy the tapas scene before bed.....in a good pension.
First days can do the damage mate , take the Vaseline and take your time.
Think of The Melbourne Cup ...go easy early .......get into a nice rhythm .......and have a bit of luck.
You collect 800km later.
Put away a few extra $$ NOW to spend on your self at the above stop overs.
Have a great Camino .

 

[Marina Millar]

Fantastic! I am definitely doing it your way! Did you fly or train to Bayonne though?

 

[Thornley]

Fantastic! I am definitely doing it your way! Did you fly or train to Bayonne though?

Fly into Biarritz.

With Easy Jet or **Air France flights are direct and leave from CDG @
7.55am / 8.45am /11.00am / 2.15pm / 4.20pm / 5.20pm
Cost around $60 - $110 A for one hour flight.
** Could get tickets from Qantas as aligned.

 

[TheLazyPilgrim]

Two nights will probably be plenty. You could also cut the costs by getting out of Paris right away. Or you could begin your pilgrimage immediately by taking part of Adoration at Sacre Couer, spending the night there. (Perpetual adoration is a Catholic thing.. though, I would think other christians could take part.)

My son and I flew into Paris from Toronto (6 hour difference), spent one day looking around Paris (we put our packs in lockers at the train station), and then we took the night train to Bayonne. We arrived in Bayonne early in the morning, where we had time to visit the cathedral (get our credential stamped), stop for breakfast, and buy some bread and cheese at a morning market, and visit a museum. Then we hopped on the train to SJPP, checked in at the pilgrims' office, had a picnic lunch and walked to Orrison in the afternoon. It was a short uphill climb, but being jet lagged, it was long enough. The next day was short too-- we stopped at Roncevalles.

Thanks Kelleymac - I've never been to Paris though so I wanted to take a little bit of it in. I also have friends in Paris I can stay with so apart from possible ticket costs and some food, I won't be spending any money on accommodation. If I left Paris, the money I would save by not spending time there would otherwise be spent on accommodation!

 

[TheLazyPilgrim]

Haha! A Lazy Pilgrim and funny As a ‘fella’ islander, I’d add that unless you’re travelling business class, I don’t think just 2-days is enough time to adjust to the time difference. I’d opt for another night in St. Jean Pied de Port. Mind you, I’m obviously much older than you!!!

I was planning on spending two nights in Pamplona as I've always wanted to visit that city, plus it's after three days of walking so I'm probably going to need the break as I adjust to it all! I also don't plan on doing a great deal in Paris, but I have to get back to work eventually and I don't know if I'll be able to have so many rest days at the start - I've allowed myself 3 - 4 extra nights on the Camino if needed.

 

[TheLazyPilgrim]

Get to Bayonne as quick as you can on that day of landing
Stay in a good hotel and relax , its a great town.
Next day early train to StJPP , wander around and stay the night .
Depending on time of year next day Orisson or Valcarlos.
Then Burguete , 4 km past Roncesvalles [ great accommodation]......then Hotel Akerreta [ 1km past Larrasoana ] then a lovely 13km walk along the river to Pamplona where you spend all day and enjoy the tapas scene before bed.....in a good pension.
First days can do the damage mate , take the Vaseline and take your time.
Think of The Melbourne Cup ... early on , go easy .......get into a nice rhythm .......and have a bit of luck.
You collect 800km later.
Put away a few extra $$ NOW to spend on your self at the above stop overs.
Have a great Camino .

Thanks Thornley - I would definitely follow your advice regarding Bayonne if I had never been to Paris, but I have friends to visit there, and I would also be castrated by my friends and family if I flew all the way to Paris and didn't even climb the Eiffel Tower or use a funny snapchat filter on the Mona Lisa's face. That said, I like the second part of your plan - skipping past Roncesvalles and Larrasoana. I am planning on not absolutely killing myself for the first part so I will happily take your advice regarding this leg on board!

 

[Geoff Shepherd]

Get to Bayonne as quick as you can on that day of landing
Stay in a good hotel and relax , its a great town.
Next day early train to StJPP , wander around and stay the night .
Depending on time of year next day Orisson or Valcarlos.
Then Burguete , 4 km past Roncesvalles [ great accommodation]......then Hotel Akerreta [ 1km past Larrasoana ] then a lovely 13km walk along the river to Pamplona where you spend all day and enjoy the tapas scene before bed.....in a good pension.
First days can do the damage mate , take the Vaseline and take your time.
Think of The Melbourne Cup ... early on , go easy .......get into a nice rhythm .......and have a bit of luck.
You collect 800km later.
Put away a few extra $$ NOW to spend on your self at the above stop overs.
Have a great Camino .

Great advice - aligns well with other experiences and recommendations in this forum. In mid-Sep18 I am flying straight through from Brisbane to CDG via Singapore arriving 0730, then 3hrs wait to catch the 1100 EasyJet flight to Biarritz, then bus to Bayonne for a night - a big first day. Next morning early train/bus/taxi to SJDPP for an easy day and night there then start the walk - just to Orisson on night one. Hope this sets me up for a good Camino. Would not have sorted this without all the good advice from your collective personal experiences. Thanks.

 

[kelleymac]

Thanks Kelleymac - I've never been to Paris though so I wanted to take a little bit of it in. I also have friends in Paris I can stay with so apart from possible ticket costs and some food, I won't be spending any money on accommodation. If I left Paris, the money I would save by not spending time there would otherwise be spent on accommodation!

I'd stay in Paris too-- I was a student there (1985), and I've seen the sights, but I still love walking along the river and visiting. It's great that you have friends there and a place to stay. If you go to Notre Dame, get your credential stamped! Bon Chemin!

 

[jeffnd]

My travel to the Camino was like this:

I left St. Jean on a Friday morning. My travel began that Tuesday morning. 3 flights and hours sitting in airports got me to my hotel room in Paris on Wednesday afternoon. I didn't sleep very well and was thrown off by the time change. Then spent Thursday on trains getting to St. Jean. I arrived late Thursday night and after checking in at the pilgrims office and getting dinner and an albergue, I finally got to bed, and again, I didn't get much sleep. Too nervous and excited. By the time I got started on Friday morning, I was dead on my feet about a mile into it.

Hindsight shows me that I made the right choice to start out that day, because I made a good friend in Valcarols, but next time, I'm taking a full day in St. Jean to recover from the travel.

 

[Baba John]

Long flights and time-change have always affected my digestion.
I am not talking about getting sick from - recycled cabin air, germs/bacteria in food/water.

My gateway to SJPdP has been... flight to Barcelona, train to Pamplona, bus to SJPdP
I am talking - Stress of Travel, poor quality Sleep (if any), 6 hours of Time Change, and Dehydration.

Over the next several days, I may experience Constipation, and/or/then Diarrhea.

On my first Camino, it became VERY clear, that there are less then a handful of washrooms between SJPdP and Roncesvalles.

My solution (on our 2nd Camino) was to spend two nights (a full day) in Pamplona.
This allowed my body time to “adjust”.

What helped me on my 3rd Camino was...
before I left Home:
-a big bowl of Oatmeal (easy to digest, has roughage)
-bring Carrots and homemade Brand Muffins for the trip (easy to digest, has roughage)
-(and the big one) drink lots and lots of water before, during, after the flights.
Note: You're about to spend five weeks using Public Washroom. You may as well get started early.

This made a big difference.

I am now planning my 4th Camino and still intend to stay two nights (a full day) in Pamplona.
This still helps to adjust for time change.
Spending a full day in Pamplona allows me to:
-get a Spanish Sim Card
-get items that are not Carry-On compatible.
Small scissors
Pocket knife w/ corkscrew
Hiking Poles
-mail my real set of clothes/shoes to Santiago for when I arrive.

If you are Retired... You should think of a day or two to adjust.
If you are stuffing a 5 week walk into 4 weeks... to bad. Adjust on the trail (actually, beside the trail)

YES!!!
As an older pilgrim (72 and counting) spending your time wisely is a great investment on your Camino. As you age it takes more time to do what took almost no time when you were younger. Flying to Europe I take at least two days, maybe three to relax., I may purchase some items, mail a box or two to Ivar, walk around whatever neighborhood I may have landed in, and just enjoy. It's why we're here!

The first three or four days of walking I find that there can be an "adjustment". Not only physically, but also emotionally. Some of the early "steps" allow me to accept that in front of me is an incredible journey that will be over before I know it, and that the beginning is sometimes like like walking through veils of mental sloth that really has nothing to do with my physical shape, but that of my mental resistance to do what I really want to do, but feels like it's the last thing in the world that I want to do. Got that???

Sooo... In the beginning I never question my decisions. If I walk 25k great! If I walk 15k great! If walk ---???k, I love it. My body/ mind dictates. I trust my decisions and never look back. Eventually the walk smooths out and I go into overdrive.

I allow myself at least six to seven weeks to walk. If I need a little more, so be it. Now, I know some people have a limited amount of time and $$$, but, you aged ones, if you only have a month to walk my suggestion would be to walk half the Camino, and plan your return trip to finish the second half. This way you can enjoy. If you have any physical problems you will be able to rest and heal. If you want to be "touristy" you can.The pressure to be "somewhere" by the end of the day is less likely to be one of your considerations. You can arrive at an albergue early and be sure of a bed. (No small thing.) And, since you have already planned to not complete the Camino, wherever you wind up will be just where your supposed to be. Also, if your traveling with a friend there is a better than even chance that you will be on speaking terms when you complete your journey.

If your coming up from "down under", or "far, far away" save your $$$, and give yourself three months to enjoy and visit a little bit more of Spain. If you finish in early Nov. you'll be surprised (pleasantly) by the reduced rates of the off season all over Spain. You will not be beat up and the experience will be forever.

As we grow older time evaporates in front of us in ways we don't see when we're twenty-five. (Although it's happening then also.) I suggest quality in execution of time and experiences over quantity, but that's just my opinion, there is no right or wrong.

Enjoy your Camino.

 

[trecile]

I've got one word - probiotics. I used to always have a "traveller's stomach" issue a few days after a long haul flight across multiple time zones. Then one year I spent about a week in South Korea visiting my son. I had zero tummy troubles while I was there. What I realized is that I ate kimchee (a natural source of probiotics) every day. Since then, whenver I travel I take some probiotic capsules with me, and take one every day. Could be a placebo, but it works for me.

 

[katie@camino]

Two nights will probably be plenty. You could also cut the costs by getting out of Paris right away. Or you could begin your pilgrimage immediately by taking part of Adoration at Sacre Couer, spending the night there. (Perpetual adoration is a Catholic thing.. though, I would think other christians could take part.)

My son and I flew into Paris from Toronto (6 hour difference), spent one day looking around Paris (we put our packs in lockers at the train station), and then we took the night train to Bayonne. We arrived in Bayonne early in the morning, where we had time to visit the cathedral (get our credential stamped), stop for breakfast, and buy some bread and cheese at a morning market, and visit a museum. Then we hopped on the train to SJPP, checked in at the pilgrims' office, had a picnic lunch and walked to Orrison in the afternoon. It was a short uphill climb, but being jet lagged, it was long enough. The next day was short too-- we stopped at Roncevalles.

I love this itinerary!

 

[spagirl]

As we grow older time evaporates in front of us in ways we don't see when we're twenty-five. (Although it's happening then also.) I suggest quality in execution of time and experiences over quantity, but that's just my opinion, there is no right or wrong.

Well said!! Take the time...enjoy it all!

 

[Thornley]

Sooo... In the beginning I never question my decisions. If I walk 25k great! If I walk 15k great! If walk ---???k, I love it. My body/ mind dictates. I trust my decisions and never look back. Eventually the walk smooths out and I go into overdrive.

Perfect answer for any future Pilgrim

 

[mary_mh]

Apologies - I'll be coming from Australia; a small island nation plopped somewhere in the Pacific Ocean where travelling on foot is never an option (what with all the wildlife). Fingers crossed you're right!

Hi there, I’m from Sydney and I’m a regular traveler to Europe. A couple of things that work for me are 1) using the refueling stop to have a shower, massage, walk around the airport to stretch my legs. Most airports have lounges you can book into, which have showering facilities. Doha (my favorite) has a swimming pool so I do some laps. I try to find flights with a decent break (Singapore, Dubai - all have good facilities). This helps my body cope with the long haul flights; 2) lots of fluids and for me, a sleeping tablet on the ~13 hour leg (only time I take them ). I end up with a solid 6-7 hours sleep that way. Book an aisle seat so you can stretch your legs out. Use flight/compression socks - keeps the feet swelling down after 30+ hours sitting.
I’m planning my Camino next year: Sydney-Paris 2 nights; train to SJPP, then 2 nights SJPP with an early start the next morning. It takes me 2-3 days to adjust to the time difference and recover from the flight. You may or may not suffer jet lag (I usually get it coming back), but it’s awful if you do, so I would advise giving yourself a little space just in case.
Paris is really special. If you look up Notre Dame website you’ll see several pilgrim services and blessings. It’s an inspiring place and when the choir fills the space it’s breathtaking. I think a couple of days rest and reflection in Paris (and a stamp from ND) might be a nice way to start; stock up on some nice food for the train journey to SJPP and enjoy watching the countryside roll past. European trains are really comfortable and you can buy tickets online from 3 months in advance. The earlier you book, the cheaper the tickets. User friendly sites with English language options. Anyway, that’s just my thoughts - you’ll find what resonates for you. It will be wonderful!! Buen Camino, Mary

 

[KarenLScot]

Hi Mary, my husband and I are leaving Australia on the 30th September to walk the Camino Frances. We have organised 2 days in Paris, 2 days in SJPP and overnight in Orisson. As a frequent traveller to Europe (my family are all in Scotland) the jet lag can be a real killer. Thanks for the tip about Notre Dame and the pilgrim services.

 

[mary_mh]

Hi Mary, my husband and I are leaving Australia on the 30th September to walk the Camino Frances. We have organised 2 days in Paris, 2 days in SJPP and overnight in Orisson. As a frequent traveller to Europe (my family are all in Scotland) the jet lag can be a real killer. Thanks for the tip about Notre Dame and the pilgrim services.

Sounds great Karen. I’m going to do first night at Orisson too.

 

[Thornley]

Hi there, I’m from Sydney and I’m a regular traveler to Europe. A couple of things that work for me are 1) using the refueling stop to have a shower, massage, walk around the airport to stretch my legs. Most airports have lounges you can book into, which have showering facilities. Doha (my favorite) has a swimming pool so I do some laps. I try to find flights with a decent break (Singapore, Dubai - all have good facilities). This helps my body cope with the long haul flights; 2) lots of fluids and for me, a sleeping tablet on the ~13 hour leg (only time I take them ). I end up with a solid 6-7 hours sleep that way. Book an aisle seat so you can stretch your legs out. Use flight/compression socks - keeps the feet swelling down after 30+ hours sitting.
I’m planning my Camino next year: Sydney-Paris 2 nights; train to SJPP, then 2 nights SJPP with an early start the next morning. It takes me 2-3 days to adjust to the time difference and recover from the flight. You may or may not suffer jet lag (I usually get it coming back), but it’s awful if you do, so I would advise giving yourself a little space just in case.
Paris is really special. If you look up Notre Dame website you’ll see several pilgrim services and blessings. It’s an inspiring place and when the choir fills the space it’s breathtaking. I think a couple of days rest and reflection in Paris (and a stamp from ND) might be a nice way to start; stock up on some nice food for the train journey to SJPP and enjoy watching the countryside roll past. European trains are really comfortable and you can buy tickets online from 3 months in advance. The earlier you book, the cheaper the tickets. User friendly sites with English language options. Anyway, that’s just my thoughts - you’ll find what resonates for you. It will be wonderful!! Buen Camino, Mary

No need to start too early from St JPP as Orrison is only a few hours walk.

 

[Marbe2]

We leave from east coast of USA landing the next morning in Madrid and finding our way to our starting point. This year we are spending two nights in SJPdP. We always take two nights before walking. The first night we are somewhat punchy from sleep deprivation and crash. The second day my sister always has an upset stomach. The third day we are able to go. It still takes us about 4 or 5 days to become well oiled creeky walkers!

 

[TheLazyPilgrim]

Hi there, I’m from Sydney and I’m a regular traveler to Europe. A couple of things that work for me are 1) using the refueling stop to have a shower, massage, walk around the airport to stretch my legs. Most airports have lounges you can book into, which have showering facilities. Doha (my favorite) has a swimming pool so I do some laps. I try to find flights with a decent break (Singapore, Dubai - all have good facilities). This helps my body cope with the long haul flights; 2) lots of fluids and for me, a sleeping tablet on the ~13 hour leg (only time I take them ). I end up with a solid 6-7 hours sleep that way. Book an aisle seat so you can stretch your legs out. Use flight/compression socks - keeps the feet swelling down after 30+ hours sitting.
I’m planning my Camino next year: Sydney-Paris 2 nights; train to SJPP, then 2 nights SJPP with an early start the next morning. It takes me 2-3 days to adjust to the time difference and recover from the flight. You may or may not suffer jet lag (I usually get it coming back), but it’s awful if you do, so I would advise giving yourself a little space just in case.
Paris is really special. If you look up Notre Dame website you’ll see several pilgrim services and blessings. It’s an inspiring place and when the choir fills the space it’s breathtaking. I think a couple of days rest and reflection in Paris (and a stamp from ND) might be a nice way to start; stock up on some nice food for the train journey to SJPP and enjoy watching the countryside roll past. European trains are really comfortable and you can buy tickets online from 3 months in advance. The earlier you book, the cheaper the tickets. User friendly sites with English language options. Anyway, that’s just my thoughts - you’ll find what resonates for you. It will be wonderful!! Buen Camino, Mary

Hi Mary - thank you for taking the time to reply so comprehensively. Very helpful. I am actually over-nighting in Seoul, and I was going to book a nice hotel. I'm going to have a nice Korean BBQ dinner and then spend a bit of time in the morning seeing a couple of sights before heading back to the airport for the remaining leg. I don't usually have any trouble sleeping on airplanes so I shouldn't need to have any sleeping tablets. I am doing much the same as you when I get there, except I am only having 1 night in SJPdP. I love your advice about Notre Dame. I'm also a big fan of the suggestion to stock up on food for the train ride - I think I'll try and get myself used to packing a lunch! I already have my train ticket . Thank you again for replying - I am less than a month away now!

 

[Nezabudka]

Most airports have lounges you can book into, which have showering facilities. Doha (my favorite) has a swimming pool so I do some laps.

Hi Mary, thank you for the idea
How big is the Doha airport? how long does it take to travel between arrivals/departures etc.? I will have three hours in transit only, but unfortunately as I can't follow the OP's advice and have a lot on my schedule for that day, would love to use some refreshment....
Thanks a lot.
Another newbie pilgrim here from "A small Pacific island" (Thank you, TheLazyPilgrim - you've made my day )

 

[TheLazyPilgrim]

[QUOTE="Another newbie pilgrim here from "A small Pacific island" (Thank you, TheLazyPilgrim - you've made my day )[/QUOTE]

Woo-hoo! Glad I could make you smile!

 

[mary_mh]

Hi Mary, thank you for the idea
How big is the Doha airport? how long does it take to travel between arrivals/departures etc.? I will have three hours in transit only, but unfortunately as I can't follow the OP's advice and have a lot on my schedule for that day, would love to use some refreshment....
Thanks a lot.
Another newbie pilgrim here from "A small Pacific island" (Thank you, TheLazyPilgrim - you've made my day )

Hi Mary, thank you for the idea
How big is the Doha airport? how long does it take to travel between arrivals/departures etc.? I will have three hours in transit only, but unfortunately as I can't follow the OP's advice and have a lot on my schedule for that day, would love to use some refreshment....
Thanks a lot.
Another newbie pilgrim here from "A small Pacific island" (Thank you, TheLazyPilgrim - you've made my day )

Doha isn’t that big - nothing like Dubai! Nice places to eat (for an airport!) Can reasonably walk one end to the other. If you do a google search for ‘swimming pool at Doha airport’ you can see the location of the pool/spa. You can just have a shower, which I feel normalises me a bit between flights. They supply everything including toothbrush kits. But if you just want to walk around it’s pleasant space. Hope that helps.

 

[mary_mh]

Hi Mary - thank you for taking the time to reply so comprehensively. Very helpful. I am actually over-nighting in Seoul, and I was going to book a nice hotel. I'm going to have a nice Korean BBQ dinner and then spend a bit of time in the morning seeing a couple of sights before heading back to the airport for the remaining leg. I don't usually have any trouble sleeping on airplanes so I shouldn't need to have any sleeping tablets. I am doing much the same as you when I get there, except I am only having 1 night in SJPdP. I love your advice about Notre Dame. I'm also a big fan of the suggestion to stock up on food for the train ride - I think I'll try and get myself used to packing a lunch! I already have my train ticket . Thank you again for replying - I am less than a month away now!

Sounds like a terrific plan! Have fun out there.

 

[mary_mh]

No need to start too early from St JPP as Orrison is only a few hours walk.

Good advice, thanks. Perhaps a leisurely breakfast as I’ll book ahead for Orisson. Early the next morning to Roncesvalles will be needed though

 

[Thornley]

Hi Mary, thank you for the idea
How big is the Doha airport? how long does it take to travel between arrivals/departures etc.? I will have three hours in transit only, but unfortunately as I can't follow the OP's advice and have a lot on my schedule for that day, would love to use some refreshment....
Thanks a lot.
Another newbie pilgrim here from "A small Pacific island" (Thank you, TheLazyPilgrim - you've made my day )

Doha has the best business lounge in The World .

Good advice, thanks. Perhaps a leisurely breakfarrst as I’ll book ahead for Orisson. Early the next morning to Roncesvalles will be needed though

Not really Mary , start early if weather is hot .
The last few times we have stayed in Burguete which has great accommodation and many restaurants , it's only an extra 40 minutes.

 

[mary_mh]

Doha has the best business lounge in The World .



Not really Mary , start early if weather is hot .
The last few times we have stayed in Burguete which has great accommodation and many restaurants , it's only an extra 40 minutes.

Thanks Thornley, much appreciated!

 

[Linnea923]

Get to Bayonne as quick as you can on that day of landing
Stay in a good hotel and relax , its a great town.
Next day early train to StJPP , wander around and stay the night .
Depending on time of year next day Orisson or Valcarlos.
Then Burguete , 4 km past Roncesvalles [ great accommodation]......then Hotel Akerreta [ 1km past Larrasoana ] then a lovely 13km walk along the river to Pamplona where you spend all day and enjoy the tapas scene before bed.....in a good pension.
First days can do the damage mate , take the Vaseline and take your time.
Think of The Melbourne Cup ... early on , go easy .......get into a nice rhythm .......and have a bit of luck.
You collect 800km later.
Put away a few extra $$ NOW to spend on your self at the above stop overs.
Have a great Camino .

Just printed your recommendations.... I never thought of just spending a night in Bayonne as I am coming from Brieve and still have to go through Biaritz to Bayonne. Thanks

 

[Jamieb]

I plan on doing something similiar. I arrive in Madrid in the morning, will take train to Pamploma - looks like I will arrive in Pamploma in the afternoon. My plan is to splurge on a hotel room that first night to get some good sleep & sleep in if I am able to, wake up next day and make my way to SJPdP. I am one that does not function well with little sleep - almost feel physically ill.

 

[Stuartwe]

Get to Bayonne as quick as you can on that day of landing
Stay in a good hotel and relax , its a great town.
Next day early train to StJPP , wander around and stay the night .
Depending on time of year next day Orisson or Valcarlos.
Then Burguete , 4 km past Roncesvalles [ great accommodation]......then Hotel Akerreta [ 1km past Larrasoana ] then a lovely 13km walk along the river to Pamplona where you spend all day and enjoy the tapas scene before bed.....in a good pension.
First days can do the damage mate , take the Vaseline and take your time.
Think of The Melbourne Cup ... early on , go easy .......get into a nice rhythm .......and have a bit of luck.
You collect 800km later.
Put away a few extra $$ NOW to spend on your self at the above stop overs.
Have a great Camino .

Thornley,
That sounds just the ticket for my first Camino celebrating my 60th birthday which I am planning to do in 2020.

Sounds a good investment in spending a few extra quid to preserve mind,body and spirit .

I’m going to save your post and use your recommendation as a blueprint in two years time

Best wishes
Stuart

 

[Anna Cameron]

For Australian pilgrims, consider flying Emirates into Lyon (saving Paris for another time - it is too cruel to treat Paris as a mere stopover). The direct flight from Dubai arrives in Lyon late in the day, so a couple of nights there to recover (and walk around the Vieille Ville) is a good idea. Then hop on the Air France direct Hop! flight to Biarritz next morning, in Biarritz, walk over to the bus stop for the bus to Bayonne and catch the train from Bayonne to SJPP. That's what we did in August this year - I wish we had stayed an extra day in Bayonne en route because it looked lovely from the bus. We also stayed 2 nights in St Jean Pied de Port before starting our walk. We flew back to Adelaide on Emirates, out of Nice, by the way, having spent our last few days in Europe exploring Provence. And discovering the shell and Pilgrim signs all over the streets of Arles! Who knew? I want to do the Chemin d'Arles and walk to SJPP next time. And will fly Emirates from Oz when I do.

 

[lissie45]

For Australian pilgrims, consider flying Emirates into Lyon (saving Paris for another time - it is too cruel to treat Paris as a mere stopover). The direct flight from Dubai arrives in Lyon late in the day, so a couple of nights there to recover (and walk around the Vieille Ville) is a good idea. Then hop on the Air France direct Hop! flight to Biarritz next morning, in Biarritz, walk over to the bus stop for the bus to Bayonne and catch the train from Bayonne to SJPP. That's what we did in August this year - I wish we had stayed an extra day in Bayonne en route because it looked lovely from the bus. We also stayed 2 nights in St Jean Pied de Port before starting our walk. We flew back to Adelaide on Emirates, out of Nice, by the way, having spent our last few days in Europe exploring Provence. And discovering the shell and Pilgrim signs all over the streets of Arles! Who knew? I want to do the Chemin d'Arles and walk to SJPP next time. And will fly Emirates from Oz when I do.

It might be helpful to post this in the down under section, I’m pretty well travelled and didn’t know Emirates did Lyon. I totally agree, I consider people who say get out of Paris to either be locals who have no idea what they have on their doorstep, or deluded. I’ve always found Paris much cheaper than London too

 

[Anna Cameron]

It might be helpful to post this in the down under section, I’m pretty well travelled and didn’t know Emirates did Lyon. I totally agree, I consider people who say get out of Paris to either be locals who have no idea what they have on their doorstep, or deluded. I’ve always found Paris much cheaper than London too

Will be glad to post it in the Down Under section - how do I do that?

 

[Thornley]

For Australian pilgrims, consider flying Emirates into Lyon

Tried that using points [ and we had plenty ] when walking the GR65 from Le Puy however our old mate "The Flying Kangaroo" said into Geneva with Qatar [ which we love ] and then train to Lyon.
It was business and was a pleasant way also.