Hospederia San Martin Pinario, 16th century former monestary and location of CampFI

Hospederia San Martin Pinario, 15th century former monestary and location of CampFI

FAQ

Where will CampFI Spain be held? 

CampFI Spain will be held in Santiago de Compostela, Spain at Hospedaría San Martiño Pinario.

Do I need a passport to go to Spain?

If you are not an EU citizen, yes, you will need a passport to go to Spain.  If you are an EU citizen, you have the option to use your EU passport OR national identity card.  

Make sure that your passport will not expire within six months before entering Spain.

Check with your State Department on turnaround times for your passport if you need to obtain one for travel or renew it.

Do I need a visa to go to Spain?

US citizens can visit Spain for up to 90 days for tourism or business without a visa if their passport is valid for at least three months beyond their stay. However, the rules of travel to Europe are changing. Starting in the first half of 2025, some 1.4 billion people from over 60 visa-exempt countries are required to have a travel authorization to enter most European countries. Note:  This visa program (ETIAS) has NOT started yet and has been delayed many times.  Check on this, the official website for updates.

How to fly to Europe, then fly to Santiago de Compostela (SCQ)?

If you’re already in Europe, congratulations!  You can skip ahead 😊

Perhaps this is your first international travel, or you’ve only traveled internationally for business or as part of a tour group someone else organized for you.  No worries, Darren and Jolene have been traveling to Europe from the USA for more than 20 years and going to Santiago de Compostela, Spain every year for the past few years and are here to help.

Unfortunately, there are no non-stop flights from North America, South America, Asia, Africa, Australia or Antarctica directly to Santiago de Compostela.  All flights to Santiago de Compostela originate within Europe so you’ll need to pick a European airport hub to fly into.  (Note:  There are no direct flights from Portugal to Santiago de Compostela despite the close proximity.  If you chose to fly into Lisbon or Porto, you can take a train, bus, or two flights to get from those Portuguese cities to Santiago de Compostela.)  

Most people arriving in Santiago de Compostela will fly first into Madrid, Barcelona, London, Geneva, Basel, Paris or Amsterdam, then connect to Santiago de Compostela (airport code: SCQ) by plane, train or bus.  This helpful link will show you all the cities with direct flights to Santiago de Compostela, and how often they fly for research purposes only.  We recommend booking directly through the airline when you select your flight.  SCQ airport is a medium-sized, very modern airport, with high quality inexpensive food and beverages.

We recommend novice international travelers to take a direct flight from the European hub you’ve selected to Santiago de Compostela.  Flights within Europe are inexpensive (compared to North America), and after Easter in April is not a peak season for travel.  You may have jet lag when you arrive, so navigating train schedules or bus schedules as a novice international traveler can be difficult. 

For experienced international travelers or adventurous novices, choose whichever means you like, which include train, bus, by foot, or by rental car.  

Now that you know which European hubs have flights to Santiago de Compostela, you can use Google Flights to start to follow airline prices from your home departure city of choice. Here is a guide to setting up your fare watchlist to receive notifications when fares are on sale to and from your favorite departure city.  

The best time to book flights is two to eight months before the trip. For more international travel hacking tips, check out this podcast.

One tip to consider when booking flights from North America to Europe is that you can book different classes for each flight.  Meaning that if you are interested in an upgraded seat such as business class for the eastbound leg (i.e., arriving in Europe) but do not care about an upgraded seat on the westbound, you can save a considerable amount of money versus buying a roundtrip business class ticket.

How do I get to Spain by ship?

In March and April, several cruise lines reposition their vessels from the Caribbean and South America to Europe.  You may consider taking a one-way repositioning cruise from a place like Miami or Fort Lauderdale to Spain or Italy, and then flying into Santiago de Compostela.  Here is a website where you can peruse transatlantic cruises for March and April 2025.  Book with your favorite travel agent once you have selected your cruise route.  

How do I get to Santiago de Compostela by train, bus or car from other cities in Spain?

By train, bus or car, here are your options for getting to Santiago de Compostela from

How do I get to Santiago de Compostela by foot from other cities in Spain?

Many travelers arrive in Santiago de Compostela by foot, after hiking one of the various Camino routes.  In fact, nearly 500,000 did so in 2023.  Here’s the link to the various non-profit country organizations supporting people with interest on walking any one of the various Camino routes.

Darren and Jolene have walked over 4,000 km on various Camino routes in Europe since 2021 and can answer any questions on Caminos you might have! 

How do I get to and from SCQ airport to Hospederia San Martin Pinario?

CampFI Santiago de Compostela will be held at Hospederia San Martin Pinario, a 15th century former monastery. It is steps away from Plaza del Obradoiro, one of the most beautiful plazas in all of Europe and just in front of the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela. 

  • A taxi from SCQ Airport to Hospederia San Martin Pinario will take about 20 minutes and will cost about €25.00. For 1-3 riders.  Carpool with others and save. 
  • A bus (the 6A bus) from SCQ Airport to Hospederia San Martin Pinario will take about 40 minutes and will cost about €3.00.  To purchase bus tickets, check out the official website for the bus system in Santiago de Compostela and the surrounding area, Alsa.  
  • You can walk from the SCQ Airport to Hospederia San Martin Pinario as the Camino passes by the airport.  It’s about 14 km and will take about three hours.  A map can be provided on request (so that you join the correct Camino path).  Walking from SCQ would not be recommended if you have more luggage than a backpack.
  • Car parking is available at a nearby (10-minute walk) public car park on Avenida Juan XXIII

How do I get to and from Santiago train station to Hospederia San Martin Pinario?

Getting to and from the Santiago de Compostela Train Station to Hospederia San Martin Pinario

  • A taxi from the train station to the Hospederia will take about 7-10 minutes and cost €10 to €15.
  • A bus from the train station to the Hospederia will take about 16 minutes and cost about €2.00
  • Walking from the train station to the Hospederia will take about 20 minutes and is about 1.5 km.

How do I get home from Santiago de Compostela?

At CampFI, consider coordinating with your new friends to connect from Hospederia San Martin Pinario to your departure point.  Options include:

  • Taxi to SCQ airport or Santiago de Compostela train station
  • Bus
  • Your rental car
  • By foot

Is CampFI Spain near the famous Camino de Santiago?

Yes, many famous Camino routes terminate at the Cathedral in Santiago de Compostela which is directly outside the front door of the facility where CampFI Spain will be held.  These routes include:   The Camino Frances, the Camino Ingles, the Camino Portugues, the Via de la Plata, the Camino del Norte, and the Camino Primitivo.  You’ll have the opportunity to see many pilgrims taking the final steps of their journey as they approach the Cathedral and tomb of St. James.

How would I include the Camino de Santiago on my trip to CampFI Spain?

There are many Camino routes across Europe with varying lengths, difficulties, and levels of support.  Pilgrims may choose to begin at any point along these routes.  The choice of which route to take and the distance to walk is really an individual choice based on many preferences.  The most common route (especially for first time pilgrims) is the Camino Frances which travels across northern Spain from Saint Jean Pied de Port (SJPDP) in southwestern France.  This route will take approximately 30-35 days from SJPDP to Santiago de Compostela.  However, if your time is limited or you simply don’t want to walk that far, you may choose to start at any point along the route.

If one wishes to receive a testimonial (certificate of completion) they must complete at least 100 km (60 miles) by foot.  Therefore, you would choose a beginning point at least that far from Santiago de Compostela.  

To begin planning a Camino hike here are some recommendations: 

  • do some research on which route looks the most interesting to you.
  • Consider how many days you want to walk
  • Join some Facebook groups to see what others have to say.  There are Facebook groups for each of the major routes as well as a “Camino de Santiago All Routes” group.
  • Purchase some guidebooks to read about the routes and typical stages (ie. Daily segments).  The late author John Brierley wrote some of the best and most widely used ones.

Additional tips and resources will be provided to registrants in the months prior to CampFI Spain.

Will there be an organized Camino hike in association with CampFI Spain?

There will not be an organized nor guided Camino hike provided by CampFI.  However, since several attendees will choose to include a hike before and / or after CampFI and would like to do so with other attendees, we will provide a site where interested registrants can connect with each other and indicate their hiking interest then coordinate their own group hikes.

What tips do you have for adjusting to the time zone to minimize jet lag?

Here are a few things that may help with adjusting to the time zone before CampFI

  • Before departure, try timing your sleep and mealtimes with that of Spain a few days before departure
  • Consider taking a daytime flight instead of an overnight flight
  • Stay hydrated
  • Limit caffeine and alcohol
  • When you land, don’t nap—stay awake until the sun sets
  • Get outside and walking as much as possible on the day of arrival

Should I get Euros before I travel to Spain?

You will find most transactions in Spain to be cashless.  However, it’s a good practice to arrive in Spain with about €100 in cash in units of €20 or less for small transactions at mom-and-pop shops, farmers markets, and small museums.

There are a couple fees you should be aware of when using your bank card at ATMs in Europe. First is the fee for using a bank that is not yours and second is, the foreign transaction fee. Not every bank adds both fees.  Be sure to check with your bank before you travel what fees they will charge.  Even if your bank does not charge either of these fees, the bank where you are withdrawing money in Europe probably will.  You will usually pay lower fees if you use an ATM at an actual bank rather than one from a company like Travelex or Euronet. If you have a Charles Schwab debit card, the bank will reimburse you for any foreign ATM fees.

What do I need to know about using my credit cards in Spain?

Travel with a debit card with VISA or MasterCard logo if you plan to take out cash at an ATM. For credit card purchases, also ensure that you take a VISA or MasterCard branded card.  Most businesses will not take American Express or Discover.  Make sure your credit cards are enabled for contactless payments or chip and PIN payments, and you know your PIN. Most EU terminals do not take swipe cards anymore.

Alert your bank and credit card companies that you will be traveling.  Not all credit cards require this, but it will not hurt to call and let them know that you will be traveling especially if you do not normally travel internationally.  Banks can be quick to freeze a card when it looks like there’s suspicious activity. 

Additionally, check to see what kind of fees your credit card might charge for international use. Some cards charge up to 3% while others do not charge any fees.

Is tipping normal in Spain?

Tipping is not required; however, it is appreciated to thank staff for good service. The amount you tip depends on the type of establishment and service.

  • Restaurants: Some restaurants expect a 10% tip, but others may include a service charge on the bill, which is indicated by “servicio incluido”. If the service was excellent, you can add an additional 5–10% tip in addition to the service charge. 
  • Cafés, coffee shops, and bars: Tipping is not required for coffee and drinks.
  • Taxi drivers: drivers don’t expect a tip, but you can round up if you want.
  • Hotels: It’s common to tip the porter, either with a euro per piece of luggage or 2–3 euros per day.
  • Other places: Tipping is also appreciated in other places where staff may not be well compensated, such as spas, salons, and serviced apartments. 

Anything to keep in mind regarding safety?

Be mindful of pickpocketing, bag snatching, and theft from unlocked cars, especially in popular tourist areas like Barcelona, Madrid, and Seville. Be extra vigilant of pickpockets crowded areas and on public transportation. Thieves may also use distraction techniques and work in teams.  Much like the attraction of talented tech workers to Silicon Valley, busy and vibrant cities are targets for the world’s most talented pickpockets. 

Cultural things to keep in mind?

Expect siesta in Spain in rural communities and moderately sized cities like Santiago de Compostela.  Most shops, pharmacies, and restaurants will close between 14:00 and 18:00 and will open again in the evening.  

Food service is slower than North America, so do not expect to dine in a rush.  If you need to eat quickly, select an establishment with take-away food service or stop by a large grocery store for a take-away lunch (Carrefour, FROIZ, Gadis).  In general, once a party has been seated in a European restaurant, the table is theirs for as long as they want it. Waiters are not looking to turn that table over.  Normally you will need to flag the waiter down to get the check.  They are not ignoring you or a slight. Instead, it is a sign that they respect your right to hang out at that table with your friends or family until you are ready to leave.

Is the tap water safe to drink and readily available?

Spain has a high standard of water safety, with the Ministry of Health ensuring that safety regulations are met. In fact, 99.5% of Spain’s tap water is deemed safe for consumption. The country’s advanced public filtration and wastewater management systems contribute to its excellent water quality.

The water in Santiago de Compostela has a high amount of calcium and mineral deposits, and the flavor might not be to everyone’s liking, so rest assured that bottled water is available for purchase in night shops and at restaurants.  

Must I have a return or onward travel ticket to travel to Spain?

You may be asked by the airlines or by Spanish officials to show proof of onward travel from Spain.  

Do an online search for “How to Hack Onward Travel” if you plan to arrive in Spain without onward travel booked.

I plan to spend some extra time in Europe before / after Camp FI Spain.  Do I need to consider Schengen limits?

If you are not an EU citizen, you will need to understand the number of days you can stay in Europe based upon what passport and visas you may hold.

Check with your State Department to understand your stay limits.

For example, Canadian and US citizens can stay in the Schengen Area for up to 90 days within a 180-day period without a visa. This applies to tourism, business, or transit. The 90 days can be cumulative, so it’s not necessary to stay for 90 consecutive days. If you leave the Schengen Area and return within the 180-day period, your previous stay will count towards the 90 days

Will Camp FI Spain follow a similar format as previous camps?

Yes, with the exception that it will be one day longer.  Rather than 3 nights and 2 ½ days of activities, CampFI Spain will include 4 nights and 3 ½ days of activities.  Similar to other camps, we will have speakers, breakout sessions, leisure time, and fun activities.

What will the accommodations be like at CampFI Spain?

All rooms will have their own shower and bathroom, hairdryer, heating, telephone and WiFi.  The bedroom furniture is handmade by local artisans.

If you’ve been to the Franciscan Retreat center in Colorado Springs for CampFI Rocky Mountain, the accommodations in Santiago de Compostela will be much like that.  

What clothes should I plan to bring to Camp FI Spain?

Casual clothing is suitable though dressing up a little bit (dark jeans or hiking pants, plain black or white shirt) will help reduce your chances of being identified as a tourist and target of potential pick pocketers.  

What footwear should I bring?

Sneakers used to be a telltale signature for North American tourists.  Not anymore.  Sneakers, trail runners, and hiking shoes are the norm in Santiago de Compostela. Be sure to bring comfortable shoes suitable for walking on cobblestones and uneven streets.

What will the weather be like in Santiago de Compostela during Camp FI Spain?

In April, Santiago de Compostela, Spain can be moderately cold and rainy at the beginning of the month, but gradually warmer and less rainy later on. Temperatures can range from 40–60º F (4.5–15.5º C), and the weather can be comfortable for outdoor activities. Approaching May, temperatures range from 12–20º C (53.6–68º F). It can be partly rainy and partly sunny, but there are often nice days with sunshine.

Will my cell phone work in Spain?

Check with your carrier and your plan details.  Be sure to understand how you will be charged for using your phone abroad. What is your data roaming plan, do you get free EU roaming, or charged a daily fee, or have to pay per megabyte? Paying per MB is almost always crazy expensive.

If your plan provides coverage in Spain but you plan to stay more than a few days, it likely will be worthwhile to get an additional SIM (or eSIM) that would provide you cheaper local coverage.  Typically, a SIM will cost $30-50 for a month of data and local calls.  A common source for purchasing eSIMs prior to travel is AIRALO.

How should I transport my medications?

Pack your medicine in your carry-on.  Keep your medication in original containers.  Do not combine multiple medications into one container.  Make sure your prescription medication is clearly labeled with your full name, your healthcare provider’s name, the generic/brand name, and the exact dosage.

Bring documentation of all written prescriptions, including the generic names for medicines.  You can also consider bringing information on your diagnosis or a copy of your medical history in Spanish and English.  If you use controlled substances or injectable medicines, you can ask your prescribing healthcare provider for a note.  If you need refrigeration for medicine, please inform the meeting organizer so that refrigeration can be secured for you.  

How do I prepare in advance for electrical connections? 

Electricity in Spain is 220 volt and use a different connection than used in the USA.  You’ll need an adapter that works with Type C or F receptacles.  Also, don’t bring any electrical device that heats (hair dryer, straighteners…) unless it is specifically designed to work on 220 volts it will burn up or explode when you plug it in (even with an adapter).

Do I need to know Spanish or Galician?

It is helpful to learn a few frequently used words and phrases, but you certainly do not need to become fluent as English is fairly common in the city of Santiago de Compostela.  Google Translate or another translation app will come in handy so have it downloaded (Spanish and Galician) and installed before you arrive.

Should I rent a car?  

If you rent a car, understand that you will need to park a 10-minute walk from the CampFI lodging and pay for parking. 

Much of old town Santiago de Compostela is designated as pedestrian only.  There is an abundance of public transportation and taxis in Santiago de Compostela.  

Do I need travel insurance?

Purchasing travel insurance is a personal decision.  First, understand the difference between travel insurance, health insurance while traveling, and expatriation insurance when one is traveling.  

Check with your health insurance plan to see if it covers you for health care services overseas and if you’ll be in or out of network if you need to get care.  Check with your credit cards to see what kind of trip insurance coverage and expatriation insurance is included with purchase of airfare.  

Do you have any other general travel tips?

  • Pack light: Most airlines inside Europe allow one single suitcase per passenger, and either one or two carry-on bags. Smaller is better, as hotel rooms are small and if you are travelling by train, you want to be able to carry your own luggage without trouble.
  • Farmacias are common and readily available like in any medium or larger city in the US
  • In case you are sharing a room, you may want to bring earplugs and eye mask