Wednesday, June 19, 2013

1st Day Walking

Today I began my ascending walk from St. Jean de Pied de Port.  Weather was not the cooperating with the first etapa...cloudy, rainy, cold and foggy at 7:30am. 

 The walk was not as difficult as I thought or was told. Definitely ascending 790 meters is not an easy task but as long as you took your time and rested every once in a while. The rain did not help at all.  So much for the water proof jacket and water resistant pants. 

 
 I meet my first Camino friend, Yury from Latvia, but living in Germany. 


Along the way we had another companion that met us along the way, a shaggy black dog that I named Jacques! Jacques would walk ahead of us, but always turned back and met up with us.  He walked alongside and when we rested so did Jacques. I think he walked about 3-4 km with us until we reached the albergue.


 The walk was scenic, rolling hills, mountains in the background and small farm houses along the way.  Words and photos can not describe the immense peacefulness and tranquility that was all around you.  The higher you climbed further away was the last town but definitely looking forward to the albergue.


  
These small yellow arrows assured us we were always going in the right direction! 


Trying to stay dry! Well, like I said before, trying because my waterproof attire was really not water proof.  Nevertheless, we made it to our refugee Orisson.  Great little place.  Definitely recommend it to anyone who is making the camino.   Everyone was superb, friendly and attentive to all the peregrinos.  

After on was spent at the dinning area talking and meeting new people.  Dinner was great. A wonderful atmosphere and we had a chance for everyone to introduce themselves.  There are people from the States, Australia, Canada, Austria, Germany, Latvia, Italy, Belgium, Ireland, and France!! 

Monday, June 17, 2013

Day 1

Day 1 begins where I eventually will end my journey. Today will be a long day - 8 hour train ride from Santiago to Ourense and then switch trains in Ourense to Pamplona.  Hopefully I will make it on time to catch the bus to St. Jean Pied de Port. I have exactly 20 minutes!! If not... Taxi ride to France.  Right now I have a mixed feelings of emotions. Not knowing what to expect and really not having any plans on where I'm staying.  And for those who know me when I travel I LOVE to have my book and maps!! I think there are a few photos from previous trips that I'm walking around with my map.  I like to know where I am at and I like to know where I am going. This is definitely a BIG change for me. I have faith in this trip.  Buen Camino!! 



Finally arrived!!

I was ecstatic when I arrived at St. Jean de Pied de Port.  After almost 9 hours in train that felt eternal, arrived 15 minutes late. Ran to a taxi and made it to the bus station with a minute to spare.  I swear I must have the weakest stomach when it comes to motion sickness. Couldn't read or do anything on the train.... And the bus ride!! Lets just say I almost kiss the ground when we arrived!   Beautiful scenery, but the curves, only for the strong!!  


Sunday, June 2, 2013

Welcome

Welcome to my first blog. My name is Begoña and I am a photographer residing in Miami. I decided to start this blog to discuss my work and any projects I will be working on. My first documentary will be my anticipated trip to Spain and walk El Camino. I have been mentally preparing myself for this journey for the past year and June 17 I will begin this journey. My goal here is to share my experiences and document through my vision my journey. I hope you will enjoy it!