Group Travel Frequently Asked Questions

These are frequently asked questions about the Camino de Santiago. This blog post addresses common inquiries regarding preparation for the walk and specific questions for those traveling with us. I have broken it down into four categories: Phones and Wifi, Money and Financial Concerns, Preparations and Daily Concerns, and Social Media. If you have a question not addressed in this blog, please reach out so we can add the question/answer.

Phones and Wi-Fi

1. Will my phone work?
   1. The easy answer is yes! However, you need to decide what you do for coverage. Because of the cost, we don’t use our regular cell phone plan when we travel to Europe. Instead, we order a European SIM card from Orange right before we leave and activate it when we arrive in Spain. This is the link to their holiday plan. It’s an eSIM, so you can complete this online. Your phone has to be unlocked. Reach out to us if you have questions.
2. Will there be cell service?
   1. Yes! You will be walking in populated areas with lots of cell coverage.
3. Will there be wi-fi?
   1. Almost every bar, restaurant, and lodging will have wi-fi. I cannot guarantee it will be fast, but you will have phone access when needed.

Money and Financial Concerns

1. How much should I budget for lunch and snacks?
   1. This depends greatly on how much you eat and if you are a drinker. Cocktails are a lot more expensive than wine. Water usually comes in a bottle unless you specifically ask for tap water (agua del grifo), but I cannot guarantee that will always work. If you budget 25-30€ daily, that should be plenty (unless you are a cocktail drinker, those can be 5-8€ each). Don’t forget money for souvenirs.
2. How much cash should I have with me?
   1. You should always keep a small amount of cash, but not too much in case something happens and you lose your wallet. We recommend no more than €100 on hand time.
3. Will there be ATMs along the way?
   1. You will find ATMs everywhere along the way, but those can have hefty fees if you don’t know what you are doing. Use a bank card that doesn’t have international fees or ATM fees. For cash, we use our Charles Schwab checking account debit card. Schwab does not charge ATM or international fees; they also reimburse you for any ATM fees the other bank charges.
   2. We strongly advise against using currency exchange locations! Although they are visible, they are expensive, and there are much better alternatives for accessing cash.
4. Beyond the fee, what other expenses should I expect?
   1. The only expenses you should incur are meals throughout the day (second breakfast, lunch, snacks, cocktails), pharmacy needs, and souvenirs.
   2. Tips and gratuities from our group members are appreciated by our tour guides, drivers, and cooking class instructors..
5. What happens if I can’t go on the trip?
   1. The $500 deposit is non-refundable. We will work on the rest with you. If your travel insurance is active when that decision is made, that is a great way to ensure we are still paid. At a minimum, we expect you to cover any expenses we will be out (museum tickets, etc).

Preparations, Daily Concerns, and Itineraries

1. What is the schedule going to be like?
   1. We will start our day at about 7 a.m. Your walking will be done between 1-3 p.m. Then it’s time for washing clothes, grabbing a nap, and some self-reflection. We will have dinner at about 7 p.m. as a group. We will not only enjoy a meal but also reflect together. Lights out is about 10 p.m. so we can start again the next day.
2. What if I have dietary restrictions?
   1. Please let us know ASAP so we can ensure you have breakfasts and dinners that meet your dietary needs. Please understand that a typical breakfast is coffee and a pastry.
3. Should I have a guidebook with me?
   1. If you get lost, you should have a phone app with GPX tracks to help you find your way. Some people also like a guidebook. Here is an example of one we like to carry with us. Also, note that Google Maps will help you get back on a main road but not necessarily the trail.
4. Do I need to know the local language?
   1. It’s helpful to have a basic understanding of the language. This will help you greet people properly and order food when you are hungry. Listening to podcasts like Coffee Break or working through lessons on Duolingo are very helpful.
5. Will there be pharmacies?
   1. You will walk through multiple villages throughout the day, and pharmacies are everywhere. They will have everything you need, just like you would find in a CVS or Walgreens. 
6. Will there be access to water on the trail? 
   1. Yes! There will be many places to grab water from fountains along the trail. It will be unfiltered water from a fountain. However, the fountains are used by locals and pilgrims alike, and we have not had any issues with them.
7. Will we all walk together?
   1. Yes and no, that depends on the group. We will let the group decide what they are most comfortable with for the daily walks. We will not leave anyone alone unless they want to walk alone. We may start our day together and spread out throughout the day. Don’t stress – we are there to support you!

Social Media

1. I want to be off-grid while on the trip; is that possible?
   1. Yes! Tell your friends to follow Cruisin’ with the Colemans on Facebook or Instagram. We will post photos and videos throughout the day on Facebook and Instagram. Additionally, we will be posting daily vlogs on YouTube during the trip. Your friends and family will have a lot to watch without bothering you! 
2. How do I get the photos you took?
   1. We will share a drive with you containing photos and videos that you can download. They are yours forever! 

I hope this blog answers your questions. However, if it does not, please reach out. Leave a comment below so we can add your question to this post.

Thanks, Michelle & Brian