Thank you for sharing your experiences and pouring yourself out for the rest of us to experience everything along with you. You may have completed the camino solo, but you brought us along on the journey, so you were not alone. I look forward to your coming videos. One of the elements I appreciate most about your videos is that you bring us into the moment with you, and I can feel the atmosphere, smell the aroma and remember the feeling of being on the camino all over again - reliving my own adventure. Thank you!
Hi Ginny, Your kind words mean the world to me. As a fellow Camino pilgrim, your confirmation that I've captured some of the essence of this incredible journey is some kind of validation - because that’s exactly what I’m trying to do. Having you along for the ride metaphorically and through my storytelling was a pleasure!There are so many more stories waiting to be told. Until next time! ☀️
Bravo. What a epic ending to a much loved series of Camino videos. That's one looooooooong day you walked there...wow. I think every returning pilgrim should experience coming into Santiago square on their own, as it reminds us of how special and important it is to share moments like this with people you love and care for. I came into Santiago on my own after the walking the portuguese central route and I didn't enjoy being alone, this was a place that had so many shared memories of triumph and completion, and yet I sat on my solo with no one to share it with. Loved the slo-mo shot of the square, lovely touch. You've set the bar oh so high for Camino vlogs, well done, sir. Looking forward to reading your forthcoming newsletter. Buen Camino.
Dan, thank you so much for your kind words… I truly appreciate them. I’ll return the compliment- your channel is great! and i love the writing on your blog Camino Hacks - some quality writing! I particularly enjoyed your piece on why we go back. nailed it 🎯 camino.beehiiv.com/p/go-back but back to the point about arriving solo that you made in your comment above: that really frames it in a very acceptable way. it’s only once we lack something that we held dear that we realize how much we miss it (or them). Great point about arriving solo. Let’s hope we won’t ever do that again! 😂 thank you.
@@storiestellr I’ve been impressed with your videos, and I like the way you set up the epic journey at the start. I’m in the middle of a long edit of my Portuguese coastal journey and I’ve come to realise that a good voice over can elevate the footage and helps so much with the narrative. Watching your videos has helped me with that realisation, as you do it so well. So, it appears we have a back-and-forth channel complimenting session, ha ha! Thank you for your kind words about newsletter, it is a labour of love I’m slowly growing. Maybe in a future episode you could do a guest spot on the accommodation section…if you think of any nice Gites, albergues or quirky little gems? Very good point, we don’t know what we’re missing until it’s no longer there. Ha ha, yes, we’ve done it once and we don’t want to do it again. It’s not long until you’re off again, will the Hokas last another trip?
you’re right, the voiceover adds an important element to the videos - the conviction to do so took a while to take hold, however. In the beginning, it feels weird. Writing something, and then speaking it into a mike? kinda preposterous! and yet… i quickly realized it is necessary, and it has become one of the main elements over time. By now, I enjoy it. The whole audio thing is a total rabbit hole though - but I now have a setup that sounds great, and is super simple. I recorded all the voiceovers with an iPad Pro built-in mike, and then did some processing. “good enough”, kinda. But for my next Camino, I found (after a lot of searching) these tiny wireless microphones for under €100, and they’re amazing (Comica Vimo C). In conjunction with a good sound app (Hokusai), the possibilities are almost endless! OK, sorry, you didn’t ask for all this info, now did you 😆 - anyway, your newsletter and a voiceover kinda go hand in hand, I think. It’s almost the same thing, in a way. Definitely up for a guest spot! I found a new pair of Hokas - same model, new colors, and on sale - what’s not to like? The old ones have more than paid their dues over two Caminos, I’ll put them in an exhibition window where they can now rest 😂 - a bit more than a month, and I’m off again, woop!
@@storiestellr It's comforting to hear you say that it took you a while to get into the doing the voice over and that it can feel preposterous at times. I have felt quite self-conscious adding it to my clips in my current edit. I’m not there yet, as I’ve been finding some parts lend themselves to me adding a voice over, whereas other sections I feel like adding it would help, but I’m at a loss as to what to add. Sure it’s like riding a bike, once mastered it will feel more natural. Your voice overs help to elevate the footage and get the viewer to think of the larger themes at play on the Camino, from the comedic day to day observations of ‘cookies’ to the loss of your close knit camino family - heart breaking to any pilgrim who was walked and had to say goodbye to their familia. I like the sound of your set up for recording voice overs, does it take you long to record and process them? I’ve been laying down a temporary track with simple phone recordings, I was then going to re-do it all on audacity with my professional microphone…which will add even more time onto this mammoth project, ha ha. Those microphones sounds good, thanks for sharing I’ll check them out. Share all your tools as I’m learning as I go and to hear from people doing it is so helpful. I’ve got myself a little go pro to help stop the walking judders in the footage, would love an iPhone pro but that’s a bit out of reach at the moment. You’ll be like Efren the YotTuber, he ends up dragging a trolly behind him with all his gear 😊 Yes, newsletter musings do get me in the mood for some deeper voice overs, I shall keep you posted. That’s great, thanks! I’m thinking possible for the May edition for your accommodation recommendation, so plenty of time to have a think. That’s very kind of you to say, thank you. Great to hear something I care about and put out into world resonated. Are you finding your videos are connecting with people? Ha, yes, let’s avoid solo arrivals into Santiago at all costs! Buen Camino.
Hi Dan! the voice over thing really seems to be a matter of practice; not sure if it ever gets easy, but it does get easieR. good thing is, you don’t have to do it live, but can delete over and over, until you get it right 😆 But i think if you feel it elevates your videos, then go for it! - my recording setup has been simple to a fault, just built-in ipad pro microphones, and then some compression and such in DaVinci Resolve .. definitely room for improvement. I’m experimenting a little. I’ve recorded my latest video (the meditations thing) with the tiny Comica wireless mikes - outside, with birds. i’m really surprised how good they are! but i’m looking at getting one of those $30 cardioid condenser mike knock offs from Ali Express for my voice recordings, i think that should add to the sound quality. Audio is a beautiful, deep rabbit hole, as I’m finding out! i’ll be taking a small field recorder with me this time, but in general will keep the tech gear i’m lugging to a minimum. k.i.s.s. My audience is comparatively tiny, but I do feel it resonates with them, so there’s that… And no more solo arrivals in Santiago!
Wow what a journey!! Thanks so much for sharing all of your videos I have so enjoyed journeying along with you. Your two Caminos were so different and that is the way of the Camino from my experience. Looking forward to reading your Substack musings and might even see you on the Camino in May. Thanks again Gerrit and well done.
thanks so much for following the journey over all those months, Jane! I appreciate it. The videos take a long time to edit, and i am honored if people follow in spite of the slow-ish release cadence. thanks for subscribing to my newsletter, and it would be a serendipitous surprise if we ran (walked) into each other in May! buen camino ☀️
Thank you for posting your journeys! I found your first Camino documentary while looking for inspiration for my Europe trip next year and it has set me on the path of walking my own Camino August next year. Cannot wait for your updates in May!
First and foremost, congratulations on your achievement, and your voice is very captivating. Discovering your video has been a serendipitous moment for me as I prepare for my first Camino, seeking to understand the deeper meaning of this journey. Your videography and journal resonate deeply, I was able to relate and be inspired. Each pilgrim undoubtedly carries their unique narrative and reasons for embarking on this unique path. Your mention of the full route made me reflect on my own limitations, feeling a tinge of guilt for not undertaking the entire journey. Yet, I am grateful that the Camino welcomes those of us with limited time, allowing participation even for just 1-2 weeks. May our paths cross one day, and despite my fresh clothing, I hope you will still greet me warmly.😅
hi there, thanks a lot for the compliments! I'm truly touched that my video resonated with you as you prepare for your own Camino. You're absolutely right - every pilgrim's story is unique, and there's no need to feel guilty about not walking the full route. The Camino welcomes all, whether you're walking for a week or a month. The Camino has a way of providing exactly what each person needs, even in a shorter timeframe. Embrace your journey fully, and know that you'll gain insights and experiences that are unique to you. I'm honored that my videography and journal entries could inspire you. we'll hopefully cross some day! Buen Camino
I've seen your longer videos so this was quite a surprise, what an endeavour! You encapsulate the loneliness that we feel when alone for long stretches and the challenge of this, the desire to reconnect. And of course the battle with ego. This is so beautiful, moving, poetic. Your images and words convey the true spirit of The Camino for me. The soul of it. So evocative and stirs my longing to go back. Thank you.
hi Laura, thank you! I’m glad that what i was trying to convey resonated with you. Those were intense 24 hours, and i’m apparently still processing them 🥹 I hope you get to go back on the Camino! in the meantime, I hope i’ll be able to get the 5½ hour 🥶 version of the 16 episode out the door before I take off again! buen camino 🌞
Gerritt congratulations on having your cake and eating it too! Soon, I will be following in your wake as I start my second Camino, a celebration of life beginning on May 20th. Buen Camino!!
thank you so much! It's coming closer... I'll be a little ahead of you, starting early May in Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port! thanks for following my videos, buen Camino!
As I approach my 7th year removed from my camino all I can say is, thank you for the videos. Your ending monologue really hits home. I still think about all my camino friends and wonder what they are doing. I couldn't have imagined not seeing them at the end. What you did took more strength than you may have even realized. I really hope if you do other caminos you keep making videos. You'll have a viewer in me every time! Thank you again.
Thank you so much for your kind and thoughtful comment! I'm thrilled to hear that my videos have had a positive impact on you and that my ending monologue resonated with you. It's good to hear that you still think about your Camino friends and wonder what they're up to - it never really ends, does it? I can relate… I couldn't have imagined not seeing them at the end either, but then… life happened. As for future Caminos, I definitely plan to keep making videos on my next one in May. It's a joy to share my experiences with others and to connect with viewers like you. Thank for taking the time to share your thoughts. I hope you continue to follow along on my adventures, buen Camino 🌞
What a lovely, articulate, retrospective final video. Your Camino, your way. I look forward to watching the movie length and i have subscribed to your newsletter. It has been a pleasure sharing your journey along with your musings and insights. 😍
Stephi… thank you for your continuous feedback over the months - believe it or not, but this kind of back-and-forth is what makes me put in that extra effort. Knowing there are a few people out there, watching my movies intently, makes this endeavour worthwhile. Thanks for subscribing to my substack, too - it’s an experiment, we’ll see where it goes. And I hope you get to walk your Camino in the Fall! greetings to NZ 🌸 🌺 🌹 🏝️
Fantastic! Thank you for sharing. At the start of this episode I wondered 'why is he doing this?!' ... and then you answered, at least in part. However, I do not believe the Camino is finished providing for you, and is calling you back, again. You, your meditations, your films are inspirations for walkers and pilgrims. I look forward to more.
Hi Robert, thank you! ☺️ why indeed… and the wisdom of it (or lack thereof) still escapes me, and yet… - I’m glad my little videos inspire, that’s great to hear!
Amazing! OMG, what an esperience! I’m lacking words to describe how super special this video is! Beautiful images, again, by day and night. So unusual, of course, to see the Camino by night. And I love the imagery you use for your walk through the pitch black forest. Spooky. And those little nasty dogs … well, not so little when they have a go! Hard to believe it‘s possible to keep walking for such a long time. I walked once from Arzua to Santiago … the longest walk I ever did … it was ok then, but couldn’t do it now … and could never cover the whole distance from Portomarin to SdC like you did. Be proud of yourself! And no, I don’t think you have desecrated the spirit of the Camino leaving your Camino family behind. Sometimes one needs to do different things. I totally understand what you mean. Previously I had entered SdC with my Camino friends, we partied and had fun together … last time, by bike, the arrival was different … I arrived by myself and found myself in a a circus-town full of strangers. I felt stressed by it and only found my peace again in Finisterre. Yes, it‘s the way, the Camino, not the destination … although … ways only tend to exist, if there‘s a destination. Anyway, thanks for sharing your amazing Camino story, thoughts and insights. I know about this pilgrim’s virus, know about the spell of this way, want to go again myself, but it won’t be this year. So, I’m already looking forward to the reports of your upcoming Camino. Have a great time and enjoy every bit of it! Buen Camino 😊
Dear Kater, thank you so much for your kind words and thoughtful comment! It truly means a lot to me that you enjoyed my video and shared your own experiences and insights - you’ve been there 🚲 Walking the Camino de Santiago, especially at night, was indeed a unique and unforgettable experience. Your understanding of my solo journey and my decision to walk ahead of my Camino family is greatly appreciated. It was a challenging choice, but I believe it helped me grow and learn more about myself.. and in the spur of the moment, it’s all a bit confusing - but it also makes sense at the same time. Your own stories of walking from Arzua to Santiago and biking the Camino confirms to me once again how this journey can affect each of us in different ways. and in similar ones, too. The Camino truly has a way of calling us back! and we usually pick up, don’t we? :) Thank you for taking the time to watch my video and share your thoughts. Your support means a lot to me, and I look forward to sharing more of my Camino adventures with you in the future. Buen Camino! ☀️
I will be doing the last 100km in July 2024. It was good to see and hear your travel experince. I am sure I'll be that person you judged but ya know what thats what its all about. Your experience has give n me great insight to what I will be experience. Thank you for doing that. It's beautiful.
we all judge sometimes… don’t take it seriously - i was just being catty that day. every Camino is a good one, no matter how many kilometers. buen Camino, you’ll love it! ☀️
Wow what an amazing story. Thanks for sharing. I will be undertaking my first camino next month - the Ingles - just over 100k (and then on to Finistera). I am now wondering whether I should try to get the whole thing done in one day and one night 😂. In relation to your lonely arrival at Santiago, I think this is just as valid and memorable an experience as the "traditional" approach. In fact you gained an experience which few others will have. Finally, in relation to your views about those joining the Frances at Sarria, don't forget that for those walking from Paris, Krakow, or further, walkers starting at St Jean are newbies!
thanks! yeah it’s always a matter of perspective… for the ultra-long walkers, the Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port to Santiago pilgrims are utter lightweights! 😂😁 buen camino!
Thank you for sharing. I am now walking the Voie de Vezelay and i hope to arrive the 30 april. One day rest and then a totally different experience i guess. Buen Camino
Wow how did i miss your latest vlog! Busy with sisters and niece over Easter 😀Just watching now and wow all i can say so far is that you’re a better man than i am Gunga Din 👋
Gosh Nadine, waiting on the edge of my seat to hear about your adventures. Hope all is well with you, and how are you doing with or without coffee way up there.
Well, Gerrit! What to say now. I watched all this to see if your stick was still in Finisterre! Oh well! Let me comment on this then. ***Phenomenal, on so many aspects***. Your final comments tell us that you do have unfinished business, but in a good way. Just like life, again. We always have some ongoing business. And you're proof of that, by telling the world you're doing it again, in a different way and with different projects, like Camino Meditations, something to very much look forward to, for you and for us. Amazing really how this experience keeps on giving, and who knows for how long. For life, during life, the journey. New passions, new ideas, like you said. All the questions you ask yourself at the end. We should all do that, on a regular basis, I think, and then maybe answer them, and act, too. I can only say that you did what you did, your choice, your life, pure existentialism! And you're doing the Camino again ffs! haha And who's this Bruce guy? Good luck with that! Finally, just these few final words. A heartfelt thank you. I mean it. See you soon!
…so much unfinished business, I’ll just have to walk that thing again! 😆 And of course, Camino Meditations, and this, and that… it seems to be a deep well; let’s see what I dig up! The closing chapter was kind of a riddle for me, but it had to be untangled. No one said it was gonna be easy, but… it’s not supposed to be, now is it. Aaaanyway, see ya in Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port! and thanks for following these videos along….
Wonderful journey and stunning views from the El camino. Walking the last 100km in one day isn’t an easy task, but you had a dream and you fulfilled it ! Wanted to ask you, which video gear did you use to film and immortalise these nice shots along your journey ?
thanks! My gear is deceptively simple: an iPhone 13 Pro Max. That’s it. I used a gimbal occasionally, but no more than that. This time around, I’ll be packing some tiny wireless microphones, because I often had problems with bad sound due to wind, but in general I try to keep it as simple as possible. I edit in DaVinci Resolve.
Rephrase in my question, I would like to know if you could tell me what’s the name of the Hoka that you use when you walked to Camino, I am doing my Camino in September 2024 and looking for a sturdy shoe that will take me to Santiago, I wear hocus now anyway
Pfff, 100 km, why the hell why?? Oh yeah, to be with the wedding of your friend, off course. Good reason, but then I remembered your staying in Leon for three nights, for the group. And now you left them behind? I can't really understand completely. I got the feeling I missed something. Beside that: I really loved your blog. Keep going on! I had to laugh when you said in Santiago that you never walk again (the Frances). Exactly my words after my first arrival in Santiago. And guess what, the next year i was again in St Jean. Its kind of an addiction. In May again, this time from Porto. Enjoy your next Camino!
salut Lucien, it was a though decision - and when i was in Léon, I thought I would just not be able to make the wedding, so I kind of resigned myself to the fact. it was a constant battle, tbh. I still don’t know! 🥹 yeah i’m all packed for my third one in may 😁 - buen camino!
Well done Gerrit! When is your next Camino? Which path will you take? The wife and I start in Leon, 26 April. Camino San Salvador to Oviedo connecting to Camino Primitivo
thanks! i’ll be trailing slightly behind, i’ll start early may in Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port. Léon is awesome! hope you get to stay for a few days. buen camino!
were they solid bites? did they then let go or how did you shake them off? i was attacked once also by 3 dogs, i took my backpack as a defense, now i carry dog spray with me
oh dear, that sounds gnarly… these guys snapped at my ankles, and it was scary, but: it was only to get me to leave the premises fast. I obliged. they didn’t want to ‘attack’, but were intent on making a point. 🐕
I walked two Caminos in one pair of Hoka Asahi 5. they’re amazing, BUT: you might need a different model for your feet. definitely go to a professional shoe store and see what fits. And take them much larger than you think you need them.
