Grand Hikers had several members who walked the Camino de Santiago during 2024. Brenda Cooper, Sue Petry, and Marge Rider, all on their first Camino, experienced the journey in less than stellar weather. Persevering through eight days of inclement (rainy) weather during an eleven-day trip, these women came home with memories for a lifetime spent with friends. I asked a few questions of these ladies to share with our membership.
What was the most spectacular moment of this Camino for you?
Brenda: St. James Cathedral when we were walking the final stretch through the streets of Santiago. I did it. I walked every step of the way from Astorga to Santiago. It was an emotional moment for me.
Marge: My most spectacular moment was when I arrived in Santiago. When I came to the realization that I had just walked 171 miles, of which 8 days were in the rain.
Sue: We started out in traditional agrarian countryside, punctuated by traditional rock fences with cattle, sheep, and goats grazing in green fields. This is where I first heard the metallic tinkling of the bellwether cow. The lead female wears the bell so both farmer and cattle know where the herd is. This memorable sound transported me a half century back to my first visit to Spain years ago.
Did you learn anything new about yourself?
Brenda: I am tougher than I thought. I could handle the 20-mile days of walking. I could handle the wind-driven torrential rain and being hot and wet. Doing it with blisters on my toes was the hardest physical thing I’ve ever done. It wasn’t the miles or the rain; it was the blisters. If I can do that, I can do anything.
Marge: Never in my life would I have imagined doing anything like this. I believe joining Grand Hikers eleven years ago put me on this journey.
Sue: As a (Camino) card-carrying control freak, I became aware of letting life lead me where I should go rather than fighting for control. In the midst of driving sideways rain, by letting the day proceed, I would arrive at my destination.
Tell about a funny time during your adventure.
Brenda: I learned a bit of Spanish before I went, using Duo Lingo. The thing about Spanish is that there are several dialects spoken in different areas of Spain. In one region, they speak with an intentional lisp. For example, instead of “Gracias” it is pronounced “Grathias”. Upon arrival in town, I was looking for a pharmacy, or a “farmacia,” and asked a local for directions. She had no idea what I was asking. Upon further explanation, she nods her head enthusiastically and says “Far-MATH-ia”. I wasn’t accenting it right or pronouncing it right. It became our standing joke every time we walked past a farmacia – or “Far-MATH-ia” - and they are numerous throughout Spain!
Marge: Funny times - When arriving into Sarria we came upon a herd of goats, which I called to the fence. No one knew I could speak to goats. Then, when we reached Portomarin, I had noted our accommodations had a laundry facility. I asked our host about doing laundry. She took me into the bathroom and flushed the toilet a few times. I was totally confused and couldn't understand why when I wanted to wash clothes, was she showing me the toilet. Finally she went and got her son who spoke some English. He explained the water was brown so not recommended for doing laundry!
Sue: The Camino had its cast of characters, purveyors of food, beverage, first aid supplies. One such individual was more sales-driven than we had come to expect of merchants on the Camino. He refused to stamp our passports if we didn't buy something in his tent. He had a strong personality and made quite an impression. We soon selected his title: "The Merchant of Menace."
Any future plans for another Camino?
Brenda: I would like to go back and do a leg in Portugal, hopefully without 80% of the days spent in the rain! It would be nice to appreciate the stunning scenery and spend more time experiencing the local culture instead of dodging rain and trying to dry clothes and shoes!
Marge: I plan to do the Portuguese Camino next year from Porto to Santiago.
Sue: I am listening and I won't be surprised by what I hear.
With eight days of rain, these ladies persevered! Thank you Brenda, Marge and Sue for sharing your impressions and a few moments of your trip with Grand Hikers!