We walked into Santiago on Easter Saturday.
Walking into the square is always meaningful. It is the end of the pilgrimage, the end of the journey.
It can be very emotional. Or it can be simply devoid of any emotion. But for sure it holds a very personal meaning for every pilgrim.
The Portuguese Camino was shorter, but in no way easier than the Camino Frances, the surfaces on this route had far more cobblestone and pavement. There were an equal amount of hills to be climbed but on this route most of them were not on natural path.
I walked with new friends every day, I laughed more than I can remember laughing in a long time.
I had some beautiful meals along with some wonderful wine and great company. I would say my Camino Portugues was successful. Bom Caminho!
Thoughts and Adventures 
Arlene,I enjoyed your blog very much and will miss my daily doses of camino reports. So happy that it all worked out and I can imagine the joy of it all. I wish you good hunting for a place. In case you were hoping to meet my friend Tracy, I think she is still with her daughter celebrating the birth if a grandchild. However, the refugio is open. Enjoy your time in Galicia, I so understand your dream. Light and Love, Ingrid
LikeLike
Hi Arlene – I loved your blog so much – what an incredible time you’ve all had. I think for you it’s certainly shown you another way for your future – your plans for a casa rurale in Galicia sound completely wonderful. It’s also further confirmation of the strong PGS bond that we all share – with Bill and Jen at the centre. How blessed we all are.
Take joy in every step always –
Jenny xxx
LikeLike
Congratulations!!! This pilgrimage was a joy to experience along with you. I look forward to hearing more when you arrive back in the US. Safe trip home. Judee
LikeLike
Congratulations, Arlene! Wonderful timing to arrive in time for Easter. What great certificates too! N
LikeLike
Congratulations to you. We’re so happy for you and throughly enjoyed looked forward to your daily blog. Safe travels across the pond and we’ll see you soon.
LikeLike
Congratulations, Arlene! I have enjoyed being along on your journey. Did you find the location for your casa rural? Enjoy your remaining time in Spain. Hugs. Julie
LikeLike
Congratulations on finishing the Pilgrimage! I have enjoyed following you and the others on this amazing walk! Your blog and pictures were fantastic!! Enjoy this week and I hope you find what you are seeking!
Debbie
LikeLike
I would agree that your Portuguese camino has been successful! Don’t stop blogging though. Your next camino has started.
– Clare
LikeLike
Dear Arlene, I so agree with Clare … we need you to keep blogging and can’t wait to hear what the next instalment entails; be it your own casa in Spain or something in the States? Have a safe trip home. Love, Britta 🙂
LikeLike
Congratulations!
Your memories will be with you forever.
Hugs,
Yasmin
LikeLike
Bravo Arlene!
Have felt I made the journey with you, due to your wonderful Blog posts with beautiful pictures. Memories captured! Looked forward to them. Will be waiting for your next Camino with anticipation.
XO Tami
LikeLike
Does it get old hearing me tell you that I think you are so amazing? Another Camino completed, how fun, how proud, how inspired you are to continue to do even more………..and what’s this about a casa for Pilgrims,,, need to hear your ideas and thoughts…………..
LikeLike