Keeping Up With the Times: What to Know Before You Go
Keeping Up With the Times: What to Know Before You Go
by Susan Florek | St. Louis, MO
As a first-time peregrina, I prepared my pack and walked a ton of practice hikes. In fact, my best preparation was an overnight “mock Camino” organized by my local American Pilgrims chapter. I neglected, however, to educate myself on the needs and desires of the local people who work, study, and live along the Camino. This became evident while there, when I noticed a seemingly overlooked infographic from Turismo de Santiago, the city’s board of tourism. I snapped a photo of it and I tried to imagine how I would feel if I lived there.
Last summer, I saw news reports that some residents of Barcelona expressed frustration with excessive tourism. If I lived anywhere along the Camino, I would expect pilgrims to be considerate and respectful, and to keep up with the times by following sustainable tourism and good environmental stewardship. We Americans sometimes overlook different societal expectations when abroad.
I hope to give back to the Camino in a small way by sharing, with Turismo de Santiago’s permission, that infographic (above) I spotted in Santiago, to help raise awareness so we all can do better. The world microcosm that is the Camino relies on everyone to respectfully welcome and support each other. Following a few simple practices can help locals and tourists alike enjoy the timeless serenity of this magical place. Keeping our voices down at night and in sacred places, capping or picking up hiking poles when walking through towns, supporting the local economy (especially donativos and restaurants), and being mindful to leave no trace are all vitally important. Additionally, try to practice the 10/3 greeting: acknowledge others ten feet away, and then greet them three feet away. After all, Jesus said that welcoming a stranger is like welcoming Christ Himself—what better place to practice that than on the Camino?
Check out the Turismo de Santiago website for a wealth of additional information.
