This is a catch-all, catch-up post #1 to describe all the planning & preparation that's gone into getting prepared for the Camino. It's hard to believe that I'm starting my journey 1-week from today, when I hop on a plane for Paris on April 4th! Since I've done the hard work to be prepared, I'm ready to go and can't wait for my adventure to begin!
Above are the books & resources that have helped me prepare for my Camino journey, along with providing the inspiration that I can do it!
"Hiking Minnesota Guide" - I received this as a present from my kids, at an early stage of when I was discovering my love for hiking. It inspired me to explore several incredible hikes in and around Minnesota, including State Parks; National Wildlife Areas; Regional, County & City Parks (and even the Mall of America!). It's made me realize & appreciate how many awesome outdoor treasures we have near us! I also explored some incredible hikes across the U.S. and in other countries. All this hiking practice has given me the confidence that I'm physically prepared for my Camino adventure!
Moon's "Camino de Santiago" Guidebook - This has probably been my most valuable resource to help me prepare. It's provided virtually everything I need to know about the Camino, including distances and descriptions of how to navigate from town to town along the route; sights to see; accommodations & food; gear & packing advice; local/cultural advice, and just about everything else.
"The Walk of a Lifetime" - This books tells the story of one man's Camino experience, from the lowest of the lows, to the highest of the highs, and everything else in between. A truly inspirational story, which excites me for what I will experience on my own journey!
"The Way" - This is an Emilio Esteves movie, starring Martin Sheen, about one man's unique journey on the Camino. For many people, this movie is how they know about the Camino.
"The Pilgrimage Road to Santiago" - This is part history book, part guidebook. While it does describe the journey, it provides a much deeper dive into the cultural and historical significance of the towns and sights along the Camino route. It should give me a much greater appreciation of what I'll experience on my journey.
"American Pilgrims on the Camino" Facebook group - this has been an incredible resource where people share their 'real-time' experiences and advice on the Camino. It includes people who have previously hiked the Camino, those who are currently on the Camino hike, and those who are planning to go. It's great to hear all the different perspectives that people bring to the conversation, and also helps to confirm that there's no such thing as a stupid question!
"You on the Camino Santiago" Podcast - this has been a valuable resource to hear about planning & preparation from someone who's hiked, and guided many groups, on the Camino. It provided very practical, on-the-ground tips & suggestions to help prepare and plan.
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