06/13/2024
Just completed my Camino de Santiago (Walk of Saint James) from Saint Jean Pied de Port (France) to Santiago de Compostella (Spain). More than 800 km (500 miles) of walking in the rain, wind, cold and sunshine. The Camino Frances covers the crossing of the Pyrenees pass, climbing to Roncesvalles, reaching Galicia through the O’Cebreiro pass, lots of changes in topography and terrain and knee breakers. The Camino has always been compared to the walk of life, with its ups and downs, challenges and rewards. You just take one step at a time.
After Santiago, we went to Muxia and then Fisterra. Fisterra was Lands End to people a couple of thousands of years back. After being a pilgrim walking in solitude for almost 2 months, staying in albergues in towns of 30 people and pushing myself to walk 20 km everyday, it took some mental adjustments to be in Madrid with a population of almost 4 Million.
Throughout my 2-months traversing northern Spain, one thing I’ve observed and admired is the Spanish work ethics. The people are proud and happy in their work, whether serving customers or sweeping the streets. And then they enjoy their relaxed lifestyle, with an afternoon siesta and evening outings.
