There are many on-line communities and forums. The Camino de Santiago Forum is “Where past pilgrims share and future pilgrims learn.” Prior to leaving on my pilgrimage to Santiago de Compostela, I used this forum for preparation and information about the Camino and the Camino life. Upon returning home, I use this forum to keep the spirit of the Camino alive and to offer my two cents worth when appropriate. You can sign up for the daily email listing of all the discussions. This list makes it easy for you to scan the topics and join in the conversations that interest you. I highly recommend this site.
Facebook offers several opportunities for discussions, in English and in other languages. Searching on Camino will lead you to people and groups with whom you can connect. My favorite groups that offer you the opportunity to ask questions and get answers are:
- The American Pilgrims on the Camino is a wonderful community sharing pictures, news, information etc about the Camino. Very supportive and friendly.
- The Camino de Santiago group has over 11,000 members from around the world. Postings are in various languages.
- The Camino de Santiago Forum listed above also has a Facebook page.
Other organizations worth considering are:
American Pilgrims on the Camino (whose Facebook page is listed above). This organizations has local chapters where you can possibly meet up with pilgrims in your area.
The Confraternity of St. James offers information, a forum, and links to other English-speaking sites.
If you have never hiked, you might want to check locally for hiking clubs. Though not specific to the Camino, some members may have hiked the Camino. Additionally you can get valuable information about hiking and local training hikes. If you are lucky, you may even find someone to walk with regularly.
Buen Camino,
Jane V. Blanchard