Outro

Impressions and Experiences 
- It was the first time in my life that I’d gone on a proper holiday on my own, and it was a great experience for me.
-  I had some really good conversations, received support, advice and inspiration, and on one occasion even an unexpected prayer for me from a stranger who seemed familiar to me.
- I was so lucky with the weather – it usually rains more here in October, but I only had one proper rainy day.
- Generally speaking, things went well for the most part (health, accommodation, food, people). And you do need a few challenges to help you grow.
- I usually strayed from the path when I was completely absorbed in my walk.
- Do not trust the sat-nav voice prompt.
- I have the impression that far more women are walking the Camino then men.
- I find the Coastal Route more beautiful and easier/safer to walk than the Central Route.
- In total, I’ve walked about 240 km over the last 17 days, instead of the planned 170 km.

Next Time
I’m already thinking about my next Camino – where, when, how far and where I’ll be heading.
- Will I get the chance to do that again? I don’t know.
- Would I book all the accommodation again? Perhaps.
- Would I want to stay in shared rooms as well? I doubt it, but in that case you should book private rooms in advance, just to be on the safe side.
- How long would I plan the routes for next time? I wouldn’t walk 10 km on the first day, no more than 15 km on the second and third, but then I’d plan for 15–20 km a day. Note: you always end up walking 2–3 km further than you plan.
- Which route, and in which direction? I would like to go the complete Camino Portugues Coastal route between Porto and Santiago (270km), but I'm not yet sure in which direction. Including travel to and from the destination and a buffer, I would plan 21 days in März/April or in October.
- I would consider travelling by train rather than by plane, but I’d need more time to plan the trip.

Equipment notes
I’m generally happy with my gear planning. I’m glad I left my sleeping bag and a second, warmer pair of hiking trousers at home at the last minute.
The two most important items are:
- Good hiking boots, including socks 
- A suitable rucksack 

I’ve bought new lightweight hiking boots: Lowa INNOX PRO GTX MID.
Also, to prevent blisters, a pair of double-layered Wrightsocks (Camino Edition) and a pair of Injinji toe socks (Liner Crew). My third pair were my 25-year-old Falke TK2s. 

I also bought a new rucksack, a Mountaintop 40 liter, which was described in a Camino report – it’s light and affordable (€50). Most pilgrims are walking around with Deuter rucksacks that are 3–5 times as expensive, but mine suits me fine, although I’m not sure if it’s the perfect length for my back.

Things I could have done without:
- A few aids for supporting the ankle – though I did end up needing the Kinesio tape after all
- A clothesline and a microfibre towel
- A head torch 
- Too many energy bars (you can always buy more)

What I’d take with me as well:
- Another T-shirt (4 instead of 3)
- A small scissor 

That’s it – thank you for sticking with my travel blog all the way to the end. 🇵🇹🥾😎