2024 Mini Series # 2 - Sept Long Walk Choices Under Consideration

Now the real fun starts...2024 potential walks. Somehow this got away on me just a touch 😂. Paulo has received an Excel spreadsheet which has 12 potential routes:

    - 8 Camino de Santiago pilgrimage walks 

    - 2 Via Francigena pilgrimage walks

    - 2 Other world class walks

Subsequent to this I received a message from Camino Forum member IslandWalker (Elaine) who was instrumental in mentoring me on Wikiloc GPS usage. After reading my blogposts on the Wainwright Coast to Coast England walk Elaine mentioned that she and her husband walked the Andalucian Coast to Coast walk in 2014...so a late add to the potential list. Paulo knows nothing about this one 😂.

Before going any further I have to report that so far the Aspics Noosa Tri 15 shoes…deemed “Snazzy Sharp”  pictured in my latest Dec 28th 2024 Mini Series # 1 blogpost have as yet to be purchased 😉. However I am now the proud owner of my 8th pair of HOKA Bondi’s (Boxing week 25% discount ☺️). I would categorize them as “Elegant Sharp”!

Three objectives for the 2024 long walk:

- new route is essential...maybe in another life I can walk a previously walked route however for now there is simply too much to see and explore…why do the same thing again?

- consider the ageing process...be reasonable like the Coast to Coast in England 🤣 and strive to walk the most challenging age appropriate route. Easier routes can wait until my 80s or 90s.🤔😉. 

- plan walk in the 14 +/- a few days in length. 

Immediately after receiving the “detailed 😊” spreadsheet Paulo sent me a short WhatsApp message simply asking “Guy what is your preferred route?”. His lawyer antenna was clearly tingling...what Paulo left unsaid was ”I have to get Guy to shorten the list somehow...I don’t have time to go through all this stuff 😆. My Canadian friend has once again lost it 😱” 

Ranking 2024 Potential Walks

The ranking approach was outlined in 2024 Mini Series #1 - Reflecting on Past Long Walks blogpost. I need not repeat the explanation here ☺️. Various write-ups on the routes ie from Wise Pilgrim website have been included below. Yes some of the wording is very flowery...that’s ok...it’s Marketing stuff.

2024 POTENTIAL CAMINO WALKS

THE CAMINO DEL NORTE

The Northern Way, is a magnificent route among the Camino de Santiago paths. Its generous stretch of approximately 825 kilometres, or 513 miles, begins at the border town of Irún in the Basque Country and follows Spain's stunning northern coastline, culminating in the revered city of Santiago de Compostela. Known for its quieter, less trodden paths compared to the bustling Camino Francés, this route offers pilgrims the opportunity to truly immerse themselves in the tranquil coastal landscapes and experience a more personal, introspective journey.

This scenic path meanders through the vibrant landscapes of Basque Country, Cantabria, Asturias, and Galicia. With cultural pit stops that range from the modernist Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao to the prehistoric cave paintings in Cantabria, and a host of charming fishing villages along the way, there's never a dull moment. Brace yourself though, as the Camino del Norte is known for its moderate to high difficulty, offering a thrilling mix of climbs and descents that will keep your heart pumping and your walking sticks working overtime. As for the cuisine, it's a seafood lover's paradise, with offerings ranging from Basque pintxos to Asturian cider. Walking the Camino del Norte might just turn into a gastronomic quest, where the real goal is to sample all the coastal culinary delights before reaching Santiago de Compostela.

***** Means the route made my final Top Contenders final cut

Potential 2024 Camino Del Norte Walks 

Ranking 4.1 Camino Del Norte - Irun to Ribadesella (Stage 1) - 426 kms walked over 16 days

Thoughts - Would consider in the future...possibly when/if able to walk over a longer number of days. For now I am not quite ready for a Camino walk which does not end in Santiago de Compostela. The other two walks deserve serious consideration for 2024 as both should be outstanding coastal walks as they enter Galicia. Completing either would allow for a future start from Irun to either Ribadesella or Villaviciosa to walk the Camino Norte in its entirety.

Ranking 6.4 Camino Del Norte - Ribadesella to Santiago de Compostela (Stage 2) - 410 kms walked over 15 days*****

Ranking 6.4 Camino Del Norte - Villaviciosa to Santiago de Compostela - 372 kms walked over 13 days*****

THE CAMINO DE INVIERNO

The Winter Way, is an intriguing alternative to the traditional routes to Santiago de Compostela. Originating in Ponferrada and spanning approximately 265 kilometres, or about 165 miles, this pathway was initially established as a practical workaround to the often snow-clogged portions of the Camino Francés during the winter months. However, with the last 100 kilometres of the Camino Francés becoming increasingly crowded, the Camino de Invierno has been gaining popularity among pilgrims in all seasons, standing as a less congested yet equally fulfilling journey to the revered cathedral.

The route provides an intimate journey through the landscapes of Castilla y León and Galicia, with an array of valleys, mountains, vineyards, and rivers to mesmerize the intrepid traveler. On the cultural side, the Camino de Invierno doesn't skimp on offerings either; you'll experience historical riches including medieval bridges, Roman mines, and rustic hamlets seemingly untouched by time. As for difficulty, the terrain is varied and moderately challenging, with a good mix of ascents and descents to keep things interesting. It might make you contemplate why you didn't stick to the treadmill at the gym, but the views will quickly remind you why.

Food-wise, prepare for a gastronomic adventure that celebrates the humble and hearty cuisine of rural Spain. As you meander through the vineyards of Ribeira Sacra, the wine will flow almost as freely as the camaraderie. From Castilian roast lamb to Galician octopus, each region will introduce you to its own culinary tradition, making the Camino de Invierno a pilgrimage for your palate as well as your spirit.

Potential 2024 Camino De Invierno Walks

Ranking 4.7 Camino Invierno - Ponferrada to Santiago de Compostela 266 kms over 10 days; Camino Finisterre - Santiago de Compostela to Muxia 122 over 4 days - Total 388 kms walked over 14 days

Thoughts - An interesting and tough alternative. Have already walked from Santiago de Compostela to Finisterre (not the added day to Muxia). Would reconsider if Paulo wants to walk to Finisterre.

Ranking 5.7 Camino Invierno - Ponferrada to Santiago de Compostela 266 kms over 10 days; Camino Inglis - Ferrol to Santiago de Compostela 114 kms over 5 days - Total 380 kms walked over 15 days*****

Thoughts - A very intriguing combination of two new Caminos...which would result in having walked 10 routes with two separate entries (4th and 5th times) into Santiago de Compostela resulting in my 4th entry point into Santiago de Compostela (not sure if there are more than 4).

The Camino Invierno would be a relatively lonely walk which is a bit of a negative. I can do lonely ie PEI Island Walk, Via Jacobi Switzerland, Via Gebennensis France however if one wants to walk this route that is a known outcome.

Various encounters with a few fierce dogs are commented on the Camino Forum. Have dealt with this on occasion…have to be aware but not a reason to bail.

What really intrigues me is whether anyone has walked this dual Camino Invierno and Camino Inglis combination in a single walk? Maybe, however consider the following Pilgrim stats (obtained Compostela’s at Pilgrim office) for the 2022 & 2023 years:

- Total compostela’s issued:            879,437

- Camino Invierno:                              4,374 (.5%)

- Camino Inglis:                                48,264  (5.5%)

Even if 5% of Camino Invierno pilgrim/walkers went on to walk the Camino Inglis the total number would be 219 or (.02%)

Bottom line...this combination could very well be a first and Paulo and I would become famous the world over 😂😊

Ranking 7.1 Camino Frances - Leon to Ponferrada 100 kms over 4 days; Camino Invierno - Ponferrada to Santiago de Compostela 266 kms over 10 days - Total 366 kms walked over 14 days

Thoughts - Would make the initial travel day from Madrid the easiest of all options considering Leon is a major center. Walking 4 days on the Camino Frances can wait...too many other options to consider.

THE CAMINO INGLÉS

The English Way, is one of the shortest yet historically rich routes to Santiago de Compostela. Spanning a mere 119 kilometres or about 74 miles, this route starts from the port city of Ferrol and traverses the heart of Galicia. As the name suggests, it was historically the preferred route of English and Irish pilgrims who arrived by boat to the northern Spanish ports and is now a popular choice for those with limited time or those seeking a shorter pilgrimage.

The Camino Inglés takes you through the verdant landscapes of Galicia, abundant with eucalyptus and pine forests, rolling hills, and traditional hamlets. The cultural highlights include the medieval quarters of Pontedeume and Betanzos, both of which house architectural treasures such as gothic churches and historic palaces. The trail offers a moderate level of difficulty with several steep ascents and descents, but nothing that would make a determined pilgrim bat an eye.

When it comes to food, the Camino Inglés will make your taste buds dance the flamenco. Galician cuisine dominates the menu with a smorgasbord of seafood, empanada gallega (a local savoury pie), pimientos de padrón (fried green peppers), and the comforting caldo gallego (Galician broth). Wash it all down with a glass (or two) of the region's famous Albariño wine, and you've got a gastronomic pilgrimage to remember. The Camino Inglés might be short, but it packs in a beautiful blend of history, culture, and cuisine, giving you a taste of the Camino experience in a condensed form.

THE CAMINO TO FINISTERRE AND MUXÍA

Often referred to as the "Camino Finisterre," is a unique route that starts, rather than ends, in Santiago de Compostela. This path, stretching approximately 120 kilometres or about 75 miles to Finisterre, and an additional 29 kilometres or 18 miles to Muxía, is an attractive option for those who feel their journey isn't quite complete at Santiago and yearn to reach what was once considered the end of the known world.

The journey predominantly passes through the rural landscapes of Galicia, brimming with eucalyptus forests, serene farmland, and charming villages. The last leg of the journey, particularly, is marked by stunning views of the Atlantic coastline. From a cultural perspective, the destination itself, Finisterre, is steeped in ancient lore, with its legendary "end of the world" status and the iconic lighthouse. Adding the trip to Muxía allows pilgrims to visit the Sanctuary of A Virxe da Barca, a site of a religious miracle according to local belief.

In terms of difficulty, the route is relatively moderate but with some hilly areas that will give your legs a good workout. As for the cuisine, expect to enjoy some of Galicia's finest seafood, with delicacies such as pulpo a la gallega (Galician-style octopus) and empanadas, coupled with the region's crisp white Albariño wine. Walking from Santiago to Finisterre and Muxía is like a beautiful encore to the Camino de Santiago, a path that insists the journey is just as important, if not more so, than the destination.

THE CAMINO PORTUGUÉS

More commonly known as the Portuguese Way, is like the Camino Francés's less famous, but just as attractive, sibling. Starting from Lisbon and ending at the Santiago de Compostela cathedral, the route spans about 610 kilometres or 380 miles, give or take a few detours to the nearest café. It doesn't quite garner the same crowds as its French counterpart, but its popularity has been on a slow and steady rise, much like a well-baked pastel de nata.

This scenic journey takes you through Portugal's beating heart, from the buzzing capital, Lisbon, to the university-laden city of Coimbra and onwards to the lively city of Porto, a place so beautiful that it'll have you questioning your decision to leave every step of the way. As you cross into Spain, the terrain becomes slightly more challenging, presenting a few hills here and there - just enough to make you feel like you've earned that second (or third) glass of Vinho Verde. The route as a whole is considered moderately difficult, unless you count resisting the temptation of Portuguese pastries and Galician seafood as a major challenge. With this camino, your taste buds are in for quite a pilgrimage themselves!

Ranking 9.0 Camino Portuguese - Lisbon to Porto - 376 kms walked over 14 days

Thoughts - Unfinished business never really sits well...sort of like those da*n (for you puzzle folks the * letter can either have a soft or harsh meaning 🤔) Actuarial Exams where somehow I passed 7 out of 10 and then totally fell apart on one specific exam 🥲. 

While I will never in this lifetime become an Actuary 🤣 I can return to Portugal and complete the entire Camino Portuguese walk from Lisbon to Santiago de Compostela. Hopefully this walk should be within my capabilities  before I hit my “best before date” so it can wait. ☺️ 

THE CAMINO Sanabres

The Camino Sanabres or Camino Mozarabe is actually the direct route to Santiago from the pilgrims who came from the south of the Peninsula. These took the Via de la Plata and in Zamora, or more concretely Granja de Moreruela, they deviated towards the West avoiding going to Astorga (Leon), which is where the Via de la Plata ends and where it connect with the French Way. This route was also used by the Galician reapers who came down to Castile during the harvest season.

The first stages from Zamora have the typical landscape of the plateau with plains that seem endless. Farther north, when entering the Sanabria region, the landscape changes and becomes more mountainous and steeper, with a maximum level close to 1,300 meters of altitude of the Padornelo.

Ranking 8.7 Camino Via de la Plata  - Zamora to Granja de Moreruela 41 kms over 2 days; Camino Sanabres - Granja de Moreruela to Santiago de Compostela 360 kms over 13 days - Total 401 kms walked over 15 days

Thoughts - Similar to Camino Portuguese comments while this walk certainly isn’t an easy one it appears that other routes...which hopefully are still within reach...should get first dibs at this time.

2024 POTENTIAL NON CAMINO WALKS

VIA FRANCIGENA

The Via Francigena, also known as the Camino to Rome, is an ancient 2,000 kilometre pilgrim walking trail that takes pilgrims on an epic journey from Canterbury in England across the channel to France and through Switzerland, before crossing Italy on the way to Rome. 

Like the Camino de Santiago, this is a historic pilgrimage route that has been walked for centuries. In medieval times, the Via Francigena was an important road for pilgrims heading south to Rome. It connected Abbeys and Monasteries, on the path to the Holy City of Rome.

This scenic route takes walkers through some of the most beautiful regions in Europe, such as the Dover cliffs, the Great War battlefields of Northern France, Lake Geneva and the mighty Alps. Other highlights include the picturesque hills of Tuscany and finally, Rome, the jewel of the crown.

Ranking 7.4 Via Francigena - Lucca to Rome - 411 kms walked over 17 days

Ranking 8.0 Via Francigena - San Miniato to Rome - 347 kms walked over 14 days*****

Thoughts - Via Francigena certainly is of top shelf interest...what an adventure that would be to walk from Canterbury England, through France, Switzerland and Italy to Rome! However the 2,000 km length necessitates a a multi year approach. The two routes shown above weave their way through the hills of Tuscany therefore it’s a no brainer that this would be spectacular. 

Walking from Lucca at 17 days is too long for 2024 however the San Miniato starting point is certainly possible.

A drawback 🤣 My Italian language skills are zippo and expect Paulo’s are no better. English, French, Spanish (counting 1 - 10 and a few words) and German (counting 1 - 10 however my pronunciation of such as I recently found out is simply terrible 😞) are basically where I am at.

Machu Picchu by Choquequiera

If the idea of authentic exploration excites you, consider the Choquequirao trek, the best alternative to Machu Picchu and the Inca Trail. High on the Quriwayrachina mountain range of Peru lies the Choquequirao archaeological site, and the only way in or out is on foot. Now, this trek is not for the fainthearted, but it’s almost unsurpassed in Peru.

With sweeping views of the Andes and opportunities to observe local plant and wild life, including the sacred Andean condor, this trek is a must for any serious hiker.

With the country’s popularity growing among international tourists, it is becoming difficult to find an authentic, uncrowded adventure in Peru. The Choquequirao trek is just this.

The Choquequirao route takes you through the steep Apurimac Canyon; as you descend down into this plunging valley, and hike back out the steep other side, you will pass through several microclimates that vary with the altitude.

Surrounded by lush rainforest and snow-capped peaks, the Choquequirao route has new views at every turn and it should come as no surprise that this mountain-top city is being lauded as the “new Machu Picchu” and is widely considered one of the finest treks in South America.

Ranking 7.2 Machu Picchu by Choquequiera - Capuliyoc to Machu Picchu 111 kms walked over 9 days*****

Thoughts - My adventure meter goes crazy thinking about this walk. 1996 Nepal walk type of feeling. A spectacular challenging mountain walk to the Choquequiera Inca ruins and ending at one of the seven wonders of the Ancient World at Machu Picchu. Well enough said! Plus everything is taken care of by KAdventures...luxury accommodation (tents ☺️)...food...carry only what you need for the day! 

One other positive...I am the official tracker of countries visited (defined as actually spending a night there...not simply passing through) for my family. No one else has volunteered to do this...not sure why 🤔. I am in second place at 24 countries with middle daughter Jeanne at 33 countries. A bit of a sore point is I have consistently lost the well thought out 😇 argument with Jeanne that countries such as Spain, Switzerland, France, England and Portugal should count as more than one as I have essentially walked across each of them. Jeanne does not buy that argument and says “tough you chose to go back to the same countries so too bad" 🥲). 

Well Peru would be my 25th country so I would close the gap ☺️...however Jeanne blurts out “Pa we are going on a Family vacation to Mexico (already been) in early 2024...I have never been to Mexico” Life is sometimes tough with 3 daughters 😉

However there are a number of other considerations...interesting travel arrangements likely taking 20 hours or so to get to Cusco Peru (I am still young 🤣...so what). No to minimal internet access for 8 days which means no blogging (would have to investigate draft blogs without connectivity...is that possible?) 🥲 Perhaps this might be a real pain point for my lawyer walking friend given his leadership law office responsibilities and daily contacts with many folks on the home front. 

I don’t even want to think about the dangerous animal situation...it would all be good!

The trips are for scheduled start days so no date flexibility (Sep 8 - Sep 20, 2024...would have to arrive a few days earlier to acclimatize) and have between 6 and 16 trekkers. End result one must be flexible within a group of new people all walking an anticipated strenuous route. 

So very similar to my 1996 Nepal walk with my brother Marc and Pa who was 74 years old. We were 9 Canadians and we got along fabulously I expect folks who venture out on these type of trips have similar mindset which helps. 

Pa, me, Marc

This option will get very serious consideration within a tough competitive field. If not 2024...then it either happens within a few short years (do I hear spring/fall 2025? 🤔) or I simply give this adventure a pass. Pa was 74 when we trekked 200 kms in Nepal in 1996 so....I live in hope!

Tour du Mont Blanc

The Tour du Mont Blanc is the most popular long-distance trek in Europe that covers a total distance of approximately 170km depending on which route is taken (some variants can be sorter or longer than the original section). The daily height gain on the Mont Blanc circuit is substantial, and overall the accumulation over the 10 days is in the region of 9,000m.

The Tour du Mont Blanc route takes you over 8 mountain cols and through 3 Alpine regions within France, Italy and Switzerland, circumnavigating the Mont Blanc. The scenery is second to none, from the broken rocky lunar landscape of the Aiguille Rouges to the pasturelands of the Contamines valley; every day has something different to offer, yet there is one common factor - the constant backdrop of the Mont Blanc range.

Ranking 7.7 Tour du Mont Blanc - Les Houches to Les Houches  153 kms walked over 10 days

Thoughts - Along with the England Coast to Coast (Done!) and the Machu Picchu walk the Tour du Mont Blanc is a bucket list non Camino walk. This would be a spectacular mountain walk! A dream walk... I don’t think 2024 is the year.

ANDALUcIAN Coast to Coast

Guidebook to the Andalucian Coast to Coast Walk outlines a 416 km, 21-day route from Maro on the Mediterranean coast to Bolonia, on the Atlantic. The route, which passes through 7 Natural Parks, links some of Andalucia's most beautiful villages and passes historical sites of both Roman and Moorish origins, including Ronda and Tarifa.

Start

Finish

Devised with the aim of linking the two great seas that cradle Andalucía, the Andalucian Coast to Coast Walk crosses the heart of southern Spain, from the small Mediterranean village of Maro to Bolonia beach on the Atlantic seaboard, a day's walk from the bustling port of Tarifa. A village-to-village walk, the 416 km trail follows the Penibetic mountain range across the provinces of Málaga, Granada and Cádiz, passing through six beautiful Natural Parks and visiting some of the region's most picturesque and characterful towns and villages, including Ronda.

Ranking 7.3 Andalucian Coast to Coast - Marc to Bolonia 416 kms walked over 21 days

Note - These stages are as recommended in the Cicerone guide...it may be possible to shorten the number of days depending on accommodation availability.

In my March 8, 2023 blogpost I commented on the Caminito del Rey as follows:

I came across an article on the Caminito del Rey in Spain. For years it was known as the most dangerous hike in the world however in and around 2015 Spain totally rebuilt the walk and today gutsy people walk it regularly...believe it is 7.7 kms in length.

But holy smokes the height exposure is incredible...Paulo this would be a neat hike to do prior to a walk such as the  Camino de Levante which starts in Valencia. If you are too scared well I will see if someone else 😂 is game...I would be 🫣💩😱scared however I am ready to try. Not crazy about height exposure however have to challenge myself sometime!

A 6 minute Youtube video link by a prominent Camino Forum member is included below if anyone wants a little more info...In many areas you can see the old trail just below the new trail…yikes for old trail!

Caminito Del Rey Youtube

Deep breath!!! ON DAY 10 Valle de Abdalajis to Carratraca one reaches El Chorro where the Caminito Del Rey is found!!! Wow...hike the Andalusian Coast to Coast AND take a day to walk the Caminito Del Rey. This would be incredible!!! If the entire Andalusian Coast to Coast 21 day walk is not in the cards...why not walk the first 10 days...tackle the Caminito Del Rey and then call it a long walk? 

On the fear of heights issue I managed to get to summit Mount Rundle in Banff National Park on my second attempt (my first attempt ended pitifully on the dragon’s back 🥲). 

I accept that I may well have to hold a stranger’s hand or a walking partner’s to get it done!!! ☺️

Thoughts - Not in 2024 however will get serious consideration in the future. Even if I do not walk the Andalusian Coast to Coast walk the Caminito Del Rey is certainly possible...just find my way to the nearest city and bus it to El Chorro where I understand accommodation abounds. Take a day...walk the Caminito Del Rey and then go off exploring some corner of Europe for a week or so. ☺️

Ranking 2024 Top Contenders and Past Long Walks

The graph below ranks the past long walks (excluding the Thames River and Camino Portuguese) and the 5 2024 top contenders (score in red box)

I consider the ranking for the 2022 Camino Primitivo & Camino San Salvador to be the best comparison to gauge the top contenders by difficulty.  All 5 walks are scoring a little easier than the 2022 Camino Primitivo & Camino Salvador combination. How accurate will that be...an unknown and that’s the fun part!

A little additional information:

Camino Invierno - Ponferrada to Santiago de Compostela; Camino Inglis - Ferrol to Santiago de Compostela

Brief synopsis 

Countries Walked - Spain

- 4.9 score vs 3.9 score for Camino Primitivo & Camino San Salvador 

- 380 kms walked over 15 days averaging 25.3 kms per day

- Elevation Gains (meters) 9,593 ; Elevation Loss (9,488) resulting in an average G/L adjusted 30.9 kms per day

Camino Norte - Villaviciosa to Santiago de Compostela

Brief synopsis 

Countries Walked - Spain

- 5.3 score vs 3.9 score for Camino Primitivo & Camino San Salvador

- 372 kms walked over 13 days averaging 32.6 kms per day

- Elevation Gains (meters) 8,353 ; Elevation Loss (7,842) resulting in an average G/L adjusted 34.1 kms per day

Camino Norte - Ribadesella to Santiago de Compostela

Brief synopsis 

Countries Walked - Spain

- 5.6 score vs 3.9 score for Camino Primitivo & Camino San Salvador

- 410 kms walked over 15 days averaging 27.3 kms per day

- Elevation Gains (meters) 9,251 ; Elevation Loss (8,756) resulting in an average G/L adjusted 32.6 kms per day

Machu Picchu by Choquequiera 

Brief synopsis 

Countries Walked - Peru

- 6.1 score vs 3.9 score for Camino Primitivo & Camino San Salvador

- 111 kms walked over 9 days averaging 12.3 kms per day

- Elevation Gains (meters) 8,380 ; Elevation Loss (8,859) resulting in an average G/L adjusted 21.1 kms per day 

Via Francigena - San Miniato to Rome

Brief synopsis 

Countries Walked - Italy

- 6.7 score  vs 3.9 score for Camino Primitivo & Camino San Salvador

- 347 kms walked over 14 days averaging 24.8 kms per day

- Elevation Gains (meters) 8,491; Elevation Loss (8,642) resulting in an average G/L adjusted 30.2 kms per day 

Whatever the final decision I would expect roles to be:

Me

Overall route planning, daily objectives, accommodation choices, route finding 😉 

Paulo

Communication with local folks in Spanish, going to laundromats as required, assisting in ordering food so that I don’t end up end with a piece of bread when I wanted chicken and a salad. If the Via Francigena is chosen I expect my well developed pantomime communication skills will result in my taking the communication lead from Paulo.

Most importantly...similar to Greg’s effort on the England Coast to Coast...and something Paulo is well versed in …accept mini meltdowns as they occur knowing that I have greatly exaggerated something...lost a bit 🤔 of perspective...am tired...and that “this shall pass relatively quickly” ☺️

Both

Exhibit good Rapport skills when meeting fellow pilgrim walkers...very often the highlight of any long walk.

Do I really believe all this analysis and mumbo jumbo comparison of walks by difficulty? 🤣. Well I do in some ways and in others I know that long walks have many surprises. So I laugh and tell myself “Guy you have once again likely created something out of nothing and...😉"

The 2024 walk will be the 10th anniversary of the 2014 year walk with Paulo and Marc. Honestly a tough choice between the adventure experience ie Machu Picchu and the ever present strong pull of the Camino. Do I have a slight lean…well maybe😉

One thing for sure...making decisions is never based on perfect information as there are too many unknowns...simply make the best decision you can...once the decision is made... no looking back and second guessing…off we go! 😊 We will adapt to whatever comes our way!