Make a pilgrimage to Santiago de Compostela

One of the greatest, most intensive experiences that completely changed my life

This trip (biking the Camino, transit time, and a little vacation with leftover time at the end) was the best 5 weeks of my life. Met lots of fascinating people, saw amazingly beautiful land and buildings, ate wonderful food (and, as a vegetarian in a not-particularly-veggie-friendly culture, far too many eggs), and completed the most involved physical task i’ve ever attempted. I feel healthier, happier, more confident, and more focused. Met a Frenchman who left for Santiago 8 days after hearing about the Camino, a Spaniard who walks it every year in 15 days, a Belgium doing it with a mule, and two Italians doing it hauling their gear in baby strollers. Talked to folks from six continents (nobody from Antarctica), easily a dozen countries, and an impressive range of ages. Truly wonderful. I can’t recommend it highly enough.

We didn’t like the way we were treated along the way. Too many rules of how they want you to do this pilgrimage. You can do a pilgrimage anytime to any place that’s significant to YOU. Make your own rules for your pilgrimage.

From Barcelona, I took the train. From Gijon, Asturias, I took the bus.

It was wonderful.

I attended Mass at the Cathedral, met young people in Santiago, got engaged in wonderful conversations, and stayed at a Franciscan monastery.

I was nineteen years old at the time.

I have twice walked the Camino de Santiago.. both times it was the most wonderful experience. I can’t recommend it highly enough. You do have to have a flexible attitude to life and not be too daunted by the idea of walking 800 k, nights on the floor, or lots of bread and cheese meals but the rewards are certainly there.