Buen Camino...



In Zubiri... 12.5miles after Roncesvalles. Tired feet at end of the day. From left to right Martin (German), Tebo (Belgian), and I



From right to left: Tony (Italian German), Robert (Aussie), Ivo (Belgian), and I

So it has been a little difficult finding an internet connection as most places are close after a certain time here in Spain. I apologize.

I made it to St Jean Pied de Port (Northwestern France) 2 days ago after taking a train from Paris. It was finally nice to get away from the city life and come to a quaint town such as St Jean. The place itself is beautiful and is right by the foot of the Pyrenees and close to the Spanish border. I immediately met another Australian by the name of Robert who currently working in the UK. He has quite the sense of humor and we immediately hit it off. Once I got into the Hostel near the Pilgrim´s office I met Tony and Ivo (both who completed the Camino last year).

We started as 4 people and then grew into greater than 10 people from all different countries (mostly in Europe). I am the only American in the group so far. It is just amazing the difference in each of us and from the difference of culture but we all share one goal... That is to finish the Camino for our own personal reasons (spiritual, religious, person, health...). It has simply not have been to just walk and enjoy the beauty of the Basque country side but to also develop comradery and enjoy each others company. Comradery like the military.

The first trip from St Jean to Roncesvalles was greater than 15 miles. It was with 21-22 pounds on the shoulders traversing through the snow covered trach of the Valcarlos path. It was my intent to begin on the Route of Napolean but from the warnings of the locals this much more scenic and mountainous path was covered in very high snow. You have to listen to what the locals say otherwise you get into trouble... It of course broke my heart because I was dead set on beginning on the Napolean.

On way to Roncesvalles after Valcarlos. Track covered in snow and alot of uphill walking.

Anyways I would like to write more (I know Tamara dont want to read) but there are other Pilgrims who want to use this single computer. It has been great so far and look forward to our walk to Pamplona tomorrow (city of the running of the bulls). 

Yup 490 more miles to Santiago. From right to left: Brian (English), Ian (English), and I. Taken after we left Roncesvalles.

Buen Camino.