I had followed this FB group for about 8 months before my departure for my Camino this past Sept. I completed my trek from SJPP to Santiago and on to Finesterre in 43 days and have just returned 11/05. I know my post might be met with criticism, but I am hoping to shed a little light...as I experienced it. 1) Please do not offer ones own experience as fact. i.e. NEVER had a problem finding an outlet, ALWAYS found an albergue without a reservation, NEVER had a problem with speaking Spanish, NEVER trained and NEVER had a problem...etc 2) The notion of The Camino will provide ...Please take responsibility for yourselves and plan out your Camino with the necessary funds and supplies. In my journey, I tended to the blistered/infections of dozens of pilgrims ( Im a retired nurse) at my own expense and handed out medications to those who had nothing. I gave money ( I am by no means wealthy ) to pilgrims who had no money for food or medicine. I am not resentful of helping those in need, but I am questioning those who assume others will simply take care of them. 3) Insurance for medical coverage...I myself broke a bone in my foot along The Way. I was only able to get to a small local clinic where I was not charged because there was not much they could do. However, I did in fact walk with many who needed hospital care/emergency services, admission for infections, pneumonia, breaks, and yes, there was big commotion over billing/costs/insurance. 4) Plan money for farmacia / pharmacy expenses...many things avail otc in the US are only avail at pharmacies. While Ive had great experiences with this pharmacy system, over 55 days it was costly ( kinesiology tape, leukotape, ace wraps, ibuprophen, cough syrup, muscle rubs, simple bandaids...) 5) In my experience, sample sizes of anything were generally not available. Once in Spain, I had to lug full sized items of toiletries, do without, or leave them behind after one use. I know...sounds like a rant and this isnt my intent... Im just asking people to take responsibility for themselves in their planning forward and in their journey. Please dont let your lack of diligence be the burden of another pilgrim...
Posted on: Sun, 09 Nov 2014 14:10:05 +0000
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