Whenever you embark on a long journey, run a marathon, sail the oceans…the final destination is hard to imagine. Starting in Lisbon on June 21st, Santiago seemed like walking to Mars. However, we arrived yesterday with our friends smiling, healthy and still married! There are multiple Camino routes that empty into Santiago, which means lots of ”pilgrims” who are happy, excited and confused on what to do next. We made it to the square in front of the famous Cathedral, which was packed with people. The office to receive your official certificates of completion was nearby. It appeared to be the proverbial goat rodeo—too many people speaking multiple languages, government officials, phone apps and long lines. Amazingly, the process was smooth and efficient. Maybe the Michigan DMV should come over and take some lessons. Santiago was/is busy and electric. I was pleasantly surprised to see very few cheesy souvenir stores and other touristy places, rather we found nice restaurants, shops, hotels and cafe’s.
Since this adventure has come to an end I thought it appropriate to make a few observations as an American pilgrim on the Camino. So, in no particular order here we go: After almost six weeks of European hotel rooms, I still cannot figure out the air conditioning system. Don’t let the remote (shown above) fool you. Each remote and corresponding A/C system is different and you need an engineering degree from MIT to get them to synch properly. Our room’s temperature usually varied from a Turkish steam bath to the final ascent of Everest on a nightly basis. I think it is the European’s way of dealing with dumbass Americans and force them into watching Spanish game shows, Team Handball and re-runs of Hawaii Five-O in complete discomfort. Life is simple in Portugal and NW Spain. You have two beer choices in Portugal and one in Santiago. No 30 craft beer list with a bunch of international brands thrown in—just two and it’s good. Most people actually appreciate Americans trying to communicate in their language, even a little bit. They usually laugh and get their children to come translate, but I think they like the effort. No matter how small and obscure the dirt path, cobblestone lane, sidewalk…you can be certain there will be cars coming in all directions at any hour of the day (these roads are barely large enough for a couple hikers to walk side by side). We’ve had tips returned to us by wait staff! I’m talking 2-5% gratuities in some cases. In the U.S. a waiter would chase you out in the parking lot and threaten your children if you left a 5% tip. Douro Valley wine is really good and underrated. I will be looking for it when I get home. In the holy city of Santiago, the place of saints, religious pilgrims and miracles, there are more police officers than in any city we’ve been to on the Camino combined!
I have been extremely fortunate to have done several adventures like the Camino. At the end of each I am impacted in some way that make me realize how fortunate I am—family, friends, health quality of life—it is something that can never be taken for granted. I came here with no expectations other than to experience each day and enjoy it for whatever comes. I am blessed to have done this with my best friend, Marsha and celebrate our anniversary on the Camino. Our great friends of 45+ years, Jim and Barb Clayton, joined us to make the experience even more special. We met wonderful people including our new friend Jonay from the Canary Islands (and our interpreter in many places). I miss my family, especially my two little girls in Mattawan, riding my bike and seeing my friends. It has been a great trip, I’m blessed and I am ready to come home. Camino si completo!
slowoldnstupid 