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Walked the Camino May and June 02
<br>Essentials:
<br> Walking Stick, Path from
Roncesvalles to Pamplona can be very "slick" in wet weather, to quote Dr.
Johnson regarding walking
<br> "two legs are good three
is better four is best. Get collapsible type with Camera mount on
top this makes a good substitute for a
<br> tripod which will be needed
if you wish to take pictures in many places, .
<br> Light small automatic camera,
I used a Pentax Espio 135, while you will need ASA 800 film with this type
of camera the weight saving
<br> is worth the small extra
cost.
<br> Good well fitted, well broken
in boots. Legions of stories about using athletic shoes and trainers, consensus
on Camino <b><u>Boots</u></b>, you could be
<br> walking in mud and in one
place a small stream. Any reputable sport boot supplier will allow
you to take boots on approval as long as you
<br> don't use them outdoors;
I did 25 miles on a treadmill with mine before I was satisfied with the
fit, and a total of over 100 miles to break
<br> the boots in properly. If
you have a history of "sore" feet it may be worth while to consult an orthoticist
regarding a custom "foot bed".
<br> Three <i><u>sets</u></i>
of walking socks, one set on your feet, one set drying on your pack and
one dry pair in your pack. I emphasize sets, a pair of heavy
<br> (Thorlo Backpacking are
good) and a pair of light to "wick" the perspiration away from your skin.
Be fanatical about clean socks, a good crop
<br> of blisters appear on even
experienced walkers who don't obey this "commandment".
<br> Take the time beforehand
to learn a little about the art and architecture along the route. I found
"The Pilgrimage Road To Santiago by Gitlitz and
<br> Davidson" very useful reading.
(You will note I am sure that I am trying to "butter up" the owner of this
list. Always a good policy. :-) )
<br> The "Pilgrims Guides to
Spain The Camino Francés" from the Confraternity of Saint James
is the "bible" for accommodation on the Camino.
<br>Non Essential
<br> Excessive planning,
at the outset give yourself a generous measure of time for the walk, then
"go with the flow" if the opportunity arises to step
<br> off of the beaten path take
it.
<br>
<p>
<p>Maura Santangelo wrote:
<blockquote TYPE=CITE>My husband and I are planning to do the camino in
May June of this year,
<br>I would like to hear from anyone who can distill the most important
<br>piece of advice on preparation for the trip, what to bring, what is
<br>totally worthless to bring.
<br>Thanks Maura</blockquote>
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