“Always go with the choice that scares you the most, because that’s the one that is going to require the most from you”-Caroline Myss
Below, we have put together a list of frequently asked questions relating to our packages.
If you don’t find what you are looking for, please click on “Contact Us” and send us a message through our website, email, or WhatsApp.
We are delighted to support you in realising your dream of walking Camino de Santiago.
Please be informed that following the regulations issued by the Spanish Ministry of Health:
Travellers aged 12 and older must show valid proof of one of the following:
1.- Vaccination certificate: being fully vaccinated (with both doses of a two-dose vaccine or one dose of a one-dose vaccine) at least 14 days prior to arrival in Spain (date(s) of vaccination must be specified). The final dose must have been administered within 270 days prior to travel to Spain. If the vaccination was completed more than 270 days prior to travel to Spain, a booster jab is required.
2.- A negative COVID-19 test: either a PCR taken within 72 hours prior to departure or an antigen test taken within 24 hours prior to departure.
3.- Certificate of recovery: having recovered from COVID-19 in the last 6 months.
For further details and the most up-to-date information, please refer to the Spanish Ministry of Health website
You must wear a face mask on public transport and in health care facilities.
You no longer need a COVID-19 vaccination certificate or negative COVID-19 test to enter Portugal. You must wear a face mask on public transport and in health care facilities.
No, you can show proof of vaccination, a negative COVID-19 test or your Certificate of Recovery at the time of your arrival in Spain and Portugal.
Yes. It is mandatory that passengers complete this form if they:
Each form is associated with a single trip and is personal and non-transferable.
For more information, please visit https://www.spth.gob.es/create
You need to create an International COVID-19 Vaccination Certificate (ICVC). It is a free and secure way to prove your COVID-19 vaccination history when you travel across borders overseas. Your international certificate features a secure QR code. It includes all the information you need to prove to the airlines and authorities that you’ve had your COVID-19 vaccinations. Some authorities may accept the QR code on its own, but some may not. Carry a printout of the PDF version in case you need it.
For more information about ICVC, please visit https://www.smartraveller.gov.au/COVID-19/COVID-19-vaccination-certificates
CROSSROADS TRAVEL COVID-19 SAFETY MEASURES & FLEXIBLE BOOKING
Flexible Booking
When booking with Crossroads Travel, please consider these changes to our booking Terms & Conditions to give you flexibility and peace of mind.
Safety Measures
While our risk assessment of supplier and destination for covid protection measures are ongoing, please understand we have no control over closures or outbreaks. Once you have departed your country, we will support you in any way possible however you will need to refer to your chosen Travel Insurance to understand what you are covered for.
On Camino, most of the grocery stores or supermarkets are open with enough supplies however we recommend you buy alcohol gel, rapid tests and masks in bigger cities to be certain.
All churches and iconic places are open to visitors. Some churches or pharmacies will require the use of masks while visiting.
As a part of our Terms & Conditions, it is a requirement that all Crossroads travel clients have Travel Insurance.
It’s your responsibility to understand if the Policy you select is appropriate for the type of holiday you are taking. It should cover elements such as cancellation, curtailment, injury, illness, repatriation costs or loss, theft and damage to your property during your holiday with us.
Crossroads Travel is not responsible for any losses or expenses that you incur if you fail to take out appropriate travel insurance.
We have a policy that requires you to pay the balance of your trip 60 days prior to your start date. This is a general travel time frame to secure your booking and get accommodation. Camino de Santiago is a unique travel destination. Quality accommodations in prime locations are limited so the earlier you book the better chance we have of securing you the best possible rooms on Camino. If you book with us later than 60 days, payment is due upfront. We will then do our absolute best to secure you our usual accommodation options.
Regarding our groups, we have secured accommodation. If you are late-deciding it may be a matter of what places are left. We have limits on the number of participants. We do this to enable us to give the level of service that we feel is professional and personal.
As a part of our booking conditions, you are required to have travel insurance. At the time of booking, you must provide us with the details of your insurance policy for us to confirm and begin your booking, (insurer, policy number and medical emergency telephone number) so we are able to assist you if the need arises.
Make sure that the insurance cover you purchase covers the activities Crossroads Travel provides during your holiday and is adequate for your needs. Typically walking a Camino is not considered a high-risk activity however the things that you would look for in your policy are:
We are in Spain and available for emergencies 24/7 while you are on your Camino. You will be given contact details on your paperwork which will be in your welcome pack. Also, in electronic form for you to save to your device before departure. You can contact us by WhatsApp or phone.
Yes, you will. This is a condition that is followed in most of Europe.
After payment of your balance, we will send general information and tips on what you will require to enjoy a comfortable Camino. 10-14 days prior to departure you will receive
No, you will find locals really appreciate it if you try to speak a few words as many of them do not speak English. Maybe learn a few phrases that you feel comfortable with to say thank you, please, yes, no etc.
You can download a translation app on your phone if all else fails.
Although it is very rare to have a problem the best way to manage this is to address it immediately with management. The problem can be dealt with at the moment, it is very difficult to resolve problems after the fact. If necessary, please contact Crossroads Travel on the phone numbers provided.
Here is a link for you to look at for a good description of what a Compostela Certificate is and what the significance of gaining a Compostela means.
Crossroads Travel provides our clients with a passport in your Welcome Pack. If you lose it or want another you will find them in many churches or official Camino stores in the main cities. Most of the community Albergues also sell them usually around 2-5 euro
There are locations all over the Camino to get stamps on your Pilgrims Passport. Make sure you get one at your accommodation each day and then you will see signs in bars, cafes, churches, and food stalls. Remember a minimum of 2 stamps per day when walking the last 100km, and the last 200 km when riding if you want to gain your Compostela Certificate.
You will place your luggage with tags we provide you in a location determined by your accommodation each morning usually before 8 am. Your luggage is transported by a company that specializes in this service. When you arrive that afternoon or evening your bags will be waiting for you. The luggage allowance is 1 x 20kg bag. If you need more, we can discuss it at the time of booking. There are other services for excess luggage storage available and if you want to take more than 20kg you will have to contract an extra bag.
Our Caminos have been completed by many others before you of all levels of fitness and age. The Camino packages we offer are not overly demanding. Chances are good you can do it too, provided you do not have any serious health issues (please discuss this with us prior to booking). If you are not moderately physically fit or physically able, you may need to establish a training regime to make your Camino more enjoyable and accept that you may need to have extra days off or catch transport if you are struggling some days.
On our Guided Camino trips, we have a support vehicle that is available for you when you need it. If something happens during the day you contact us and we will do our best to treat your injury and help you to complete the day, if possible. Obviously, on self-guided trips, you will have to treat your own blisters and rest as needed. You will have emergency contact details if you are injured. You will always have other Pilgrims to lend a hand when needed for sure!
There are so many options for food on Camino. As a Crossroads Travel client your breakfast is included beyond that you will find endless options for Food on Camino. (Here is a link I wrote on this topic)
There are plenty of options for vegetarians on Camino. It is a little more difficult when you have food allergies, or you are vegan although there are some villages with the options that you require. There is always a salad to be had and beautiful seasonal vegetables so you may have to eat in restaurants rather than having the pilgrim menu.
If you have allergies, we recommend you have a message translated into the language of the country you are in so there is no room for mistakes wherever you go.
As one of our clients, you will stay in Casas, Hostales and Hotels, and most of them will offer you an in-house overnight service to do your washing. You also have rest days if you prefer to do it yourself. There are self-serve laundries in those locations.
Not all villages have ATM machines we suggest you get cash out when you see one available. We recommend always having at least 50-100 euros on you, so you don’t get into a pickle and find yourself hungry or needing a taxi in a small village and no cash.
As a Crossroads Travel client, you will have had a good breakfast, so you are going to need money for coffee, drinks, snacks, and lunch throughout the day. Some of our foodie clients stop in beautiful restaurants for lunch, and others pack fruit. The minimum amount of cash we recommend to carry with you is around 50 euros and keep your ATM card with you in case of emergencies.
Expenses incurred during your stay are not included in your package. Your breakfast is included however bar bills, electronic services, laundry, etc., must be paid for prior to departure from your accommodation. If you are uncertain about anything you can look at the inclusions for the package you purchased on our website
Generally, our packages average between 15 to 25 km per day. I know this is a big difference however the Camino is quite unique in that there are some stages where there are literally no suitable accommodations available. What we offer clients that wish to walk short distances, where possible, we secure accommodation outside of Camino that offers a pickup and drop-off service. Returning you to the same location to continue the next day. Therefore, you do not miss any of the walk and you do not have to walk extra km. This is not the usual, we will discuss it with you if this is your case.
There are many benefits to using Walking Poles (look at our blog). Ultimately it is a personal decision. Avid walkers would never leave home without them. Poles provide great support on uneven ground and reduce jarring on knees and ankles on downhill paths. Also good for strengthening the upper body. Our tip, make sure they collapse small enough to fit into your checked-in luggage.
When you are walking all day, it is advisable to take at least 2 litres with you. Water bladders are good as they do not require you to stop and contort yourself to get them out of tight side pockets and the spout is located at your mouth to sip all day. There are lots of water fountains on Camino just be sure the water is drinkable.
SPAIN = POTABLE (drinkable) if the fountain says NON-POTABLE (not drinkable).
PORTUGAL = POTAVEL (drinkable) if the fountain says NAO-POTAVEL (not drinkable)
There are sections of the Camino where sandshoes could be appropriate, however, when you are walking so many km per day it is more about the support hiking shoes offer your feet and legs. Sandshoes while comfortable on most surfaces have soles that are not created for varying terrain and in wet conditions and rocky surfaces especially they could be quite slippery and hazardous.
It is nice to have a pair with you to wear socially and if it is a flat, dry day you could wear them but please consult your Camino guide before heading out.
The most practical and recommended footwear for Camino de Santiago is lightweight walking/hiking boots or shoes. For everyday protection, it is best if they are also waterproof. Ankle support is not important if you have no physical issues as the conditions on the French and Portuguese Camino are relatively easy.
Self-guided packages enable you to have everything organised yet walk Camino at your own pace and in your own time. We have organised all of the logistics. You simply start each morning when you like, walk to your own rhythm and have total freedom to stop wherever you like along the way.
