✨ My Goal is to help You REALLY Enjoy Your First Camino! ✨ Notice I said..........first (it gets addictive)
🥾 This channel started with one video as a newbie Pilgrim in 2015. 🥾 It showed my journey from St. Jean Pied de Port to Santiago de Compostela and then in later Caminos..
⚡ But more recently I have added a lot more. ⚡ Tips, Interviews, Explanations and Discussions. I also try to cover some Camino topics you won't find elsewhere. At the end of the day though, it's just my own Camino experiences and views.
Maybe for potential 'Newbie' Pilgrims, I might encourage you to try it....
A complete series of videos, text and photos can also be seen on my Blog at robscamino.com/ That includes blogs from 2015, 2016, and 2018 and 2023. So far I've walked the Camino Frances x 3, Via de la Plata x 1, Camino Invierno x 1, and Camino Finisterre x 1.
Not a Camino 'Expert' by any means, but I love to share and help Newbie Pilgrims in particular.
Thank you. Very useful video. To answer your first question. I am planning my first camino. Next year. Haven’t decided when. Something seems to draw me to this. I lost my husband a couple of years ago and my life is completely haywire so I guess I need balance, direction or anything that will bring that peace back. I am also planning to take it at my own pace and I want to do it alone. So, watching your videos give me a lot of courage
I also like the planning process, I leave a couple of days to free wheel, but having most stages planned allows me to enjoy the journey & the people I meet with nothing to worry about,
Very true. I like the camino, because life is so simple, you find yourself and in the same time you can meet a lot of people and you talk to strangers like you would never do in the streets at home. Just start the camino alone and you will always find company soon if you want, at least if you are in the Camino Frances. Make a break or go to the bigger pilgrim hostels (albergues). I speak German, Spanish, English and even some Russion and the people of the camino are important for me too. When my little children are older I definitely return to the Camino.
There is a lovely quote, attributed to the Nuns at Zabaldika I think. Something like "The Camino is God's Dream of how people should be when they are with each other"
I wish I could plan more. I really try to but I struggle, I love a good spreadsheet so start off with great intentions but run out of enthusiasm quickly. Living in the UK I don’t even book the flight until a few days before. As I am retired I don’t have to worry about duration except to make sure I have enough meds. I carry 50% more than I think I will need. The reason I wish I could plan more is that I miss out through ignorance. I knew about the wine fountain but not where it was. I only found it thanks to an elderly Spanish lady shouting at me, directing me to the left hand route. I will check out Sarah’s videos though.
Bring it on 😉 I totally agree, when Im not walking, I love planning. (Im probarly not going to walk all the routes Ive been looking at and planned out, but its defently part of the fun and it keeps the Camino dream alive between the holydays ❤️)
Wing it. I did 3 months of Caminos this year. Took each day as it came. Camino Frances from SJPP to Santiago , continued to Muxia/ Fisterra . Portuguese Central from Porto. Camino Ingles. and then Portuguese from Valenca - Spiritual Variant. 1700km. Used John Brierley Guide books on a daily base to see what's ahead. Love your thoughts , inputs and knowledge. Thank You Rob
An echo of my own feelings. Twice I have arrived in Santiago to feel crushed by the finality of arrival, the departure from new-found friends and the prospect of being back on home routine. I wanted to 'never walk again'. But I returned, and will return again. It was easier the second time, I was prepared. For my next Camino I have pencilled in four days on a beach to 'come down'.
I think if you have the time, some 're-entry' before getting back to your normal life can help. Last year I had 3 days with my sister on her farm in France. Just sat around, walked to the village for coffee.......
Planning whets the appetite. I walked Cadiz, Seville, Granja, Santiago, Finisterre in 2019. I had condensed an A4 jotter of handwritten notes onto a single sheet of the most important points. My memory held the rest. The joy of walking into a small town and feeling 'I know this place' is very comforting. I had neglected to prepare physically, but the first fortnight fixed that. Ten weeks in Spain. Joyful memories. p.s. I NEVER booked accomodation, and always found something. Welcome back Rob.
I hiked the Camino Portugués this spring and took the coastal route. Spent six months planning with a friend to do half the Francés but then she bailed. I changed to the Portugués with 10 days to departure, and it was perfect. The saddest people seemed to be those who had booked every single lodging months in advance, so they were locked into that itinerary. The gnarliest feet belonged to those who followed every distance recommendation, even when they were hurting. I was lucky. I walked my own Camino at a pace I enjoyed, booked no more than one day ahead, and stayed in some nice places. The Camino provided, except for one night I was on the Spiritual Variant with no lodging lined up and only two options. Looked dicey, but all worked out. It was a great experience overall. I like the freedom of loose planning. There's room for every type of planner on the Camino.
@@cltinturkey plans are fine, but they should 'held lightly'. Never understood the idea of booking everything up front. Can't see how anyone could stick to it with all the unknowns...
Come to think of it there's one level of non-planning below zero !! I've met several pilgrims over the years, not very many but they exist, who have traveled to or in France or Spain for completely different purposes, perhaps on a cycling tour or a backpacking interrail thing or whatever, maybe not even knowing that the Camino even exists, then somehow stumble by accident onto the Camino and spontaneously decide to follow it to Santiago. And at least one who was just holidaying somewhere like Pamplona or Logroño, and seeing all these pilgrims -- purchased a hiking backpack, put some stuff in and set off walking.
I love your videos!! Please keep them coming. It would be interesting to see how you're planning the next one. I also like reviews of accommodations along The Way.
Otherwise -- I've never started at SJPP and I never will, but I've walked through multiple times ; and one fantastic resource from the Pilgrim Office at SJPP is their list of Albergues on the Francès. Extremely useful at every single level of planning.
The zero planning approach actually does NOT involve planning around a time slot. It means when you start that you have no idea how long you'll be on the Camino. For most of my pilgrimage this year (there was one section that I had planned a bit more), I set off with only a very vague idea about even my itinerary, which ended up being very surprising even to me, including passing through Lourdes on the way there which was totally unplanned, whereas walking from the Pyrenees to Lourdes later, on my way back, had been planned in 2018. I'd say though that the lowest level of actual planning involves NO guide book and no strictly planned itinerary, but a more or less solid notion of "I'm going thataway", and then just working out in the evening and/or the morning, or even on the trail/road itself, from your map (whether paper or smartphone) which way to go from here -- and particularly if you're way off the beaten track in an area with no Camino infrastructure at all or only very little of it. Of course if you're trying to find a bed to sleep in every night that would increase the amount of effort, but the approach is still the same in that case. Conversely if you have a tent, the degree of planning on the go would diminish, but you would still need to work things out in much the same way at that lowest level. A major factor that will either necessitate or obviate some degree of planning is if you live in Europe or you don't. You need less planning if you live in Europe, and the less planning the closer you live to your destination whether that's Santiago, Rome, Fátima, wherever. And clearly going alone versus going with one or some others.
Good points as always. I agree, zero planning, would be just that. But I think for many people who may have a finite time that they can be away, then maybe knowing how man days a route might need, is about it.
I’m an avid planner, too! It’s so fun researching and discovering what’s out there, then putting together the puzzle of things you want to see and do while dreaming of the adventure ahead, then getting to see how it all comes together during the trip where countless happy surprises invariably pop up. If you do decide to share your über-detailed planning methods, I’d love to learn from them! Thanks so much for your always-helpful videos.
Hi I am planning my trip for next year at the end of April through May its my first time, flying from the USA, So my question which city is easier to get to Saint Jane Peid de Port?..I will do it solo. Also should i buy in flight and try later on to purchase my return to the States? In advance thank you.
There are a few popular ways to get to St Jean. It can largely depend on what flights suit you. Paris then by train to Bayonne and St Jean, or Madrid, then train to Pamplona and bus to St Jean. See this video. ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-PYFU92LEXW8.html
As for the flights, again this is personal choice. I always buy a return airfare with a 'flexible' return date if possible. Though I have only had to change the date once. If you have the time, and to avoid rushing your Camino, work out how long the walk is likely to take. Include your rest days, Include days you may want to spend in Santiago. Then add a couple more to be safe. Book that as your return flight. Booking your return flight only 1-2 weeks before reaching Santiago may result in higher prices?.
Hi Rob Hi Rob I intend to take a light weight sleeping bag ( will go hopefully about start of June) I want to go with the attitude that the Camino will provide, So.what is your thoughts on very worst case scenario, of maybe rough sleeping under a shelter or something like that?.I know it sounds crazy, and I am no spring chicken, but I don't think it will kill me. I just don't want to stress about accommodation. I would value your thoughts.
I have never slept outside and don't know anyone that needed to. Of course a few do camp out of choice. I would like to say that you will always find a bed. And you should, if you are not fussy about the type of premises and location. But I'm hearing reports of people sturuggling to find a bed on the Frances. Honestly. I think if you are prepared to take whatever there is, you'll find a bed. Though if walking the Frances from St Jean, in peak season, May-Sep, do book your beds as far as Pamplona before you start. If you think you are faced with sleeping outside, there are usually options. Taxi to another place etc. (maybe keep an emergency 20 euro for a taxi)
Really enjoyed your video.Rob. I plan to undertake my first Camino, God willing in early June 2025; I have an whole backpack of reasons for going, both has a Catholic and a Human Being. I will be 66 years old in July next year, becoming a pensioner (but still working) so want to give thanks for that. I have regrets in life that are part of the luggage that I will be bringing to the Camino; My frustration at my weak Faith is another item, my lack of will power to achieve anything is another, and there is much more. I have felt the call of the Camino for a few years now, to the point that it has become irresistible, and I believe that Christ is the One calling me through the Camino. My expectations are high; I am looking for transformation, I am looking for direction, I desire the grace of true and deep repentance and the humility to accept the gift of Mercy and Forgiveness. There is much more, but I will leave it at that and I am certain that I will need to cast off much to receive. Just Subscribed. and will call on your other videos over the coming weeks and months. I hope you and your family are well Rob. God Bless. John
Glad you are enjoying the videos John. If I might give one word of advice. I hope your Camino brings you all of the things you seek. But. Go without any expectations. Be open to what ever happens. Often the Camino has a way of providing us with what we 'need' not what we 'want'. Look for the Silver lining in everything. There usually is one.
They? Those who love to share their experiences of the Camino. It's a bit 'tongue in cheek' 🙂 Yes, a long walk does tend to hurt a bit. Though my last one of about 1200 kms didn't hurt too much at all. Till the last day or so..... Maybe we just get used to the pain? 🙄
For many, it is still about a Religious / Spiritual Pilgrimage. I've met them, frequently. But it's true to an extent, that commercial interests in the last 10-15 years particularly have influenced the more popular routes like the Camino Frances. Tour Operators have certainly jumped on the 'band wagon' and have convinced many people that this is the 'normal' way to undertake a Camino. We also see local government bodies vying for the Pilgrim trade. Large sums of money have been spent along the Invierno route for instance, improving the signage. I have never see so many way markers! Then of course we have the final 100 kms of the Frances route, from Sarria. A very busy sevtion wit a very different vibe. I can understand where your remarks are comng from, though I think it is still very much a Spritual journey for those who wish it to be. What routes have you walked? Do you see a difference between routes?
Yuuuup! You'll ask yourself, "Why am I doing This?!?!?!" Well, you just keep on and 3-4 days later (maybe a week) your body is beginning to hum along just fine. And ...what is true as said here, ...no matter how much you train, 'Doing IT!" day to day is a new world of mental and physical work...AND THAT IS THE SECOND BEST GIFT THE CAMINO GAVE ME...after 9 yers since my Frances, at every moment I am faced with a challenge (mental, psychological and of course physical) I recite my simple mantra, 'Hey,....just Camino it!' and the Camino 'Can-do' spirit returns and before I know it the challenge/Task is done....that is still a most remarkable thing every time it happens.
Walked VdlP this year (2024) from mid-April to mid-June. I can attest that those two alberques mentioned are really worth it, true gems and highpoints of VdlP. Other albergue, or rather a town I'd like to point out is Baños de Montemayor. Last stop in Extremadura before entering Castille and Leon. Municipal albergue in A Laxe was really interesting arcitechturally. Also never skip a Complejo Leo service station if you come across one. Worth a visit, every time.
A dog bite me once in La Faba, Camino Francés. I was walking the regular path and the dog attacked me from behind. This dog also bite another pilgrim, she was a few minutes behind me. Luckly, another pilgrim helped me with my wound and I visited a doctor later. Since this experience I am wearing trekking poles and a dog Repeller device. Good part here... trekking poles are super useful, not only for a bit more protection! 😉
Hmm. Not quite. Hikers wool is magical stuff. It binds into your sock providing a thin layer of additional padding and the Lanolin in the wool moisturises your skin. Try it. I don't use it a lot, only on hot spots, areas of hard skin etc.
I got bitten by a dog 32 km from Santiago on the Iinvierno. I decided to put my headphones in to listen to the morning news . When I felt a searing pain. I turned around to see a dog running off and blood on my leg. I started screaming at the owner about the dog who shugged her shoulders and turned her back on me. The worse thing was that this happened to two other people the next two days.
@@robscaminounfortunately no. TBH I didn't have any idea what I could and should do in this circumstance. The owner didn't care even though I made it clear what her dog did but I was mentally frazzled and on a mission to finish asap and rest up for a couple of days in Santiago. One of the guys that got bitten said that he would post it on some forum. Maybe next time I'll look into who to contact even to warn other pilgrims before I leave.
I love dogs even if they are barking at me. My big fear with dogs on the Camino is that I'd make friends with one and then it just decides to walk along with me. And then someone thinks that I'm stealing their dog. :-)
That can happen. We've had Dogs follow us a couple of times. It's a problem because many dogs then get lost. So it's best to never encourage them. BUT... Most of the dogs you'll meet in rural area are working dogs not pets. Sheep dogs, guardian dogs and the like. They are NOT friendly. They are doing their job protecting livestock and property and are best avoided! I have been 'cornered' a couple of times on remote routes and it can be a bit scary.
I had a couple of scary moments. On the VdlP. Two German Shepherds got quite aggressive as I passed a farm. One came out of the gate and followed me on the path, while his buddy went wide and arrived ahead of me. Another time we had three Maremma Sheepdogs (might have been Mastifs) spot us on a path about 300-400 metres from their flock that was in the middle of a field. They came across the field at full speed to intercept.......... Steer clear of working dogs!
I am starting the Camino Baztan this time next week !!!! It goes between Bayonne in France to Pamplona where I am going to do the rest of the French way. It seems a v remote Camino so will be interesting...anyone any thoughts on it ?
I've heard great things about the Baztan. Hopefully we'll get there one day. Have you watched the "Legacy of the Bones" TV Series filmed there? Maybe best when you come back! 🙂
@@robscamino I understand. I am 62 and decided that yes, till I.m too old. Until my health is good and I have the resources, I will keep walking the Caminos. Even 100 km is worth your time. I also completed Fisterre and thought of you and your videos. Breathtaking and luxurious end: spent the last evening in hotel OFaro... Unspeakable beauty to see the faro lights, the sundown and the sunrise.... Deeply beautiful too and humbling.
Hey Rob, love your videos. Getting ready for my first Camino. In researching Alburgues, I’ve noticed several are called “youth hostels”. Is there an age limit to stay at a youth hostel? Are older pilgrims allowed? Is it bad manners for older people to stay?
@@robscamino the first one I was looking at is in San Sebastián called Ulia Youth Hostel. I just didn’t want to embarrass myself by stopping in and them telling me that I’m too old. Thanks.
@@pamcrane5239 Umbrella. euroschirm.com/schirm/LightTr... Hikers Wool. www.hikerswool.co.nz/ Trowel. helinox.com.au/products/deuce... Hipsta Clip: Could not find a link, sorry. maybe they have gone out of business? I see they were on Shark tank.. But if you search for water bottle holders there are similar clips out there. Small pack. australianhiker.com.au/gear/s...
@pamcrane5239 Here you go: ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-PZy5ykETz0U.html I'm happy to answer any questions that you have, but I'm not always online. So it can take a while to get an answer. On this channel I think I have videos covering most of the questions you could think of. So, how to find them? Are you watching on a computer or phone? If on a computer, try this. On the bottom left of the video you will see the channel name. RobsCamino. Click on that. Then you will see the channel home screen. Near the top under the banner, you will see tabs for Home - Videos - Playlists - Community and then, a magnifying glass symbol. Click on the magnifying glass. Type in whatever topic you have a question about. Just a word or two. Poles for example. Or Budget, or Planning. A list of appropriate videos will then be listed. I hope that helps. But by all means ask questions and I'll find the video for you.
Have walked the Camino de Madrid (2022). It’s relatively flat to walk and is about 350km - ends in Sahagun where it joins the Camino Frances. Will need Spanish though to make telephone calls to book accom etc it is very, very, very rural for most of it. Often no supermarkets for days on end !
I start in Salmanca the last week in September. Thanks for the suggestion about printing the Gronze maps, that will be helpful. I'm much better with diagrams than words. I need to keep my pack as light as I can so I'm not keen on carrying an umbrella. This time I'll use 2 UL sun hoodies plus a very lightweight 30g Buff cap, the peak helps shade my eyes if it's very sunny. In practice I find it's also excellent as a sweat band. I'd certainly prefer the umbrella if I was not so concerned about weight.
Last year I walked the Camino Del Norte from Hendaye to Ribadeo. From there, I followed the mostly unmarked Camino Del Mar to Ferrol and then the Ingles to Santiago. I wish the Mar was more well travelled, absolutely stunning scenery and beautiful towns to discover.
Two great albergues on the VdlP. www.gronze.com/extremadura/caceres/alcuescar/casa-acogida-esclavos-maria-y-pobres www.gronze.com/castilla-y-leon/salamanca/fuenterroble-salvatierra/albergue-parroquial-santa-maria
