I have been a bit remiss in not reporting a significant milestone in my planning for the Camino. Last week I finally took the step of purchasing my airline ticket to and from Europe. So, I guess I’m more committed than ever to make this adventure happen. One of my mentors for this trip, named Anita (from the local chapter of the American Pilgrims on the Camino), told me that things start to get easier once you’ve purchased your ticket and you stop worrying so much about the trip since you’ve made this much of a commitment. I have to be honest … I’m still waiting for the worrying part to ease up a bit (it’s kind of hard-wired into my being), but I trust her advice.

I had considered a few different itineraries for the trip to Europe but finally decided to fly to Paris rather than to Madrid or some other city. My pilgrimage partner, Clint, on the other hand, has decided to fly to Madrid. We will then meet up in St. Jean before beginning our little “hike.”

I chose Paris for a number of reasons. First of all, it’s Paris! My wife and I agree that of all the cities we have visited, Paris is the one that was just as we had imagined it would be before actually going there. It has to be one of the most beautiful cities in the world. And, who wouldn’t take the opportunity to pass through it if given the chance?

Also, I happen to have a strong interest in railroading and this will give me the chance to ride the high-speed TGV train from Paris to Bayonne, which is located just a short regional train ride away from St. Jean. So, I will get to experience that as well.

All in all, I’m glad the airline ticket issue has been settled and now I can start focusing on some of the other seemingly myriad remaining logistical details. More to follow in future posts.

Buen Camino,
Bob