There is a flow of energy and a pace of life quite unique for a pilgrim. There is no mistaking a pilgrim when you see one either! 

Oh, yes, there is that pilgrim look even when you do not have a backpack on and are wandering about a village or city. Fannypack, hiking sandals and pants with a gazillion pockets are the evening wear. If it turns chilly then add a fleecy (aka fleece jacket) and socks to those scrappy sandals to complete the look. 

I have come to love alburgues. Those days where we had no reservation and trolled around the village to find something for the night were a tad stressful. Having a reservation alleviated some worry. I became excited to see the new alburgue each night and especially eager to see who the other pilgrims were.  I loved the smaller dormitories however sleeping in a co-Ed dorm with 56 people was a very enriching experience. I am guessing it is akin to an army barrack? It was my first time sleeping in a top bunk and the sleeping noise was like a symphony of snoring. Getting everyone settled in before lights out was full of laughs… 

 Pilgrim meals were  offered in many cafes. The best part of a pilgrims breakfast was the cafe con leche. And you get a first breakfast and then a second one! Two cafe con leche each day and you get to sit at a divine cafe twice to socialize with all your new friends you’ve made.

Traveling with so many people all to the same destination for many days on the same path is the most remarkable part of the Camino. You eat, drink, walk, talk, wash and sleep with this crowd of people that come from every corner of the world. The depth of the conversations with these people crosses a wide range and a multitude of topics. 

Pilgrims become bonded forever in a special way. There is nothing else like this…I am so grateful to be a part of this crowd.