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[Steve Bean]

Good Morning All -

I have been quietly monitoring all that has been going back and forth about water, footgear,food, etc., and want to add something from  my experiences that I don't believe has been mentioned so far.

It is important to remember that when you walk the Camino, you will be out there for 20, 30, 40+ days, every day, continuously walking - You may take a day off every now and then, but for the most part you will be packing up and moving every day - That takes focus and determination in itself. Just the thought of one more day of packing and walking is enough to affect your experience and is something I don't believe you can train for. You can teach your body to recover after the first day, and then  the second, and maybe the third, but after a while a tiredness sets in, and that is surprising to some people. Just be prepared for it and don't be surprised when it happens. Be prepared to take a day off now and then for your body and your mind.  And don't let it take away from your incredible journey. It's all a part of it to look back on and remember

Most people WILL develop blisters or foot problems of some sort - It's inevitable on a trek as long as the Camino - Double socks help, the right footgear helps, vaseline, dry feet, all help, but you are walking 500 miles, all at once. Something's gonna give. I hiked in boots well broken in and developed a blister. In Carrion de los Condes, I purchased a pair of hiking sandals from a sporting goods store(for $40.00 American, including the 'Pilgrim's discount', which I asked for!) and hiked in them for the rest of the journey; No blisters, no rocks in the foot, and only slightly damp on the last (prerequisite) wet day into Santiago. One of the most important pieces of information pointed out in some guide books is the location of shoe repair shops. Think about it.

Also, remember, you are hiking thru a civilized country, with stores that sell the same or similar stuff that we have in the States. So, pack light and be prepared to purchase what you need if you find you need it. ( Friends I met on my second trip found they needed lighter sleeping bags than they had brought. They found a store in Burgos similar to our K-Mart or WalMart stores and bought 2 very nice, VERY light sleeping bags for about $45.00 American. They said the store, which is a chain throughout Spain, reminded them of K-Mart back home; large, well-stocked, modern). Bottled water is available everywhere, (Altho many talked about using the fountains in the villages, I never had that courage on my two trips - I didn't want anything to spoil what was happening). as are other drinks and snacks, etc. Just be adaptable.

And, lastly, please try and be somewhat conversant in Spanish when you go. It greatly enhances the journey, especially in the smaller villages and you'll also be able to shop and eat easier.

So, journey well and don't be surprised about anything that happens on the trip. It is a life-changing experience.

Ultreia,

Steve Bean
ultrrnnracts.com
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