The hiking community is a great network. I had never even heard of the Pacific Crest Trail until I walked the Appalachian Trail. Likewise, I knew next to nothing about El Camino de Santiago until I had extensive discussions about it with … Continue reading
http://francistapon.com/Travels/Spain-Trails/10-Reasons-Why-El-Camino-Santiago-Sucks Francis Tapon has written a provocative article entitled, (Ten Reasons Why El Camino Sucks). First, let me affirm that the article was well written; I applaud him for speaking exactly what was on his mind. Having said that, I strongly … Continue reading
“I don’t want to be alone the whole time,” she stated with obvious feeling. “But you won’t be alone,” I countered. “Well how will I find my walking partners?” “The trail will actually choose them for you,” I answered. Was … Continue reading
“Why am I doing the Appalachian Trail instead of the Camino?” the lady asked me. “Because the Appalachian Trail is harder. You can do the Camino later.” I had this conversation at the Appalachian Trail Kickoff this past weekend at … Continue reading
Yes, I know about the three things you are not supposed to talk about without ‘stepping in it’. And the most incendiary of the three is probably religion. But for those of you who have walked El Camino de Santiago, … Continue reading
I have good news for you aspiring pilgrims. Planning a pilgrimage on the Camino de Santiago is much less complex than preparing to thru-hike the Appalachian Trail. This is for a very simple reason. A pilgrim does not have to … Continue reading
http://www.flickr.com/photos/91754202@N08/8326719621/ <img src=”http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8502/8327766122_cbca6d2a06_z.jpg” alt=”photo” aria-describedby=”title_div” width=”640″ height=”4 We’ve all heard about the wonders of the south of France. But what’s the best way to actually see them and experience them? The conventional south of France tour would most likely include … Continue reading
Replicating a trend spreading around the country, local chapters of American Pilgrims on the Camino have recently been established in Atlanta, Georgia and Asheville, North Carolina. Better yet, both chapters have seen great attendance at every meeting thus far. For more information, … Continue reading
Yes, I’m aware you have a seemingly infinite possibility of Christmas gifts to choose from. But do you ever ask yourself, “Which gift would have the most lasting effect?” Perhaps you do. Let me just say that most people who … Continue reading
Given that 92% of the Camino de Santiago (Camino Frances) is actually in Spain, it is no surprise that the Camino overflows with Spanish pilgrims. As all pilgrims soon learn, that is good news. Yes, the Spanish government has a long … Continue reading