Pyrenees Mountains, Spain by Alex Alishevskikh

Many would want to prepare for this important event in their lives, and they would often look up information on the Internet to help them organize everything they’ll need for this trip.  One of the most reliable sources of information you can look up on the Internet is a Camino de Santiago forum.  There are loads of them to be found online, and they would certainly provide you with all the information you need.  Below are some facts which you may come across upon visiting the place:

• While the path of going from the French area of the Pyrenees Mountains to the town of Santiago is quite a long one, people don’t have to worry about the possibility of encountering bandits or gangs.  In these modern times, the path has been made safer, considering that it has become a modest tourist attraction among devout Catholics all over the world.  Of course, there will still be some challenges to be hurdled, such as traveling with heavy backpacks or even sleeping amidst the presence of bedbugs.  However, one who is truly dedicated to following the path of spiritual enlightenment will not be fazed by these things.

• There is a slow pace when traveling along the Camino.  In fact, many people who go in pilgrimages would often find themselves meditating in areas they encounter.  These areas include the vineyards, cornfields and lush forests in the area.  Hilltops are abundant with such majestic scenery; the path leading to the destination is one that many people will find relaxing and highly breath-taking.

• The trail is one that can bring together many devout Catholics from all over the world, including cyclists, backpackers and hikers.  These pilgrims are not only on their way to attaining spiritual  contentment, but area also blessed with a wonderful trekking experience that makes for a highly welcome change from the busy living of urban society.  Apart from that, the pilgrimage itself will bring them altogether a lot closer to being one with God.

These are just some of the facts that any aspiring pilgrim will come across on a Camino de Santiago forum on the Internet.  With these facts, one can be prepared of what lies ahead in the journey for spiritual satisfaction.

Leslie loves hill walking and writing his routes on the web.  He has been running the main Camino de Santiago and Walking in Scotland site since 2006. Check out Camino de Santiago forum for more details.

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Photo licensed under the Creative Commons, created by Sue Elias

What to Expect in Algarve

There’s some places that encourage guests to visit at a specific time of the year to avoid uncomfortable weather conditions. Fortunately, that’s not the case in Algarve, Portugal. Tourists are welcome to spend time there year-round without having to worry about unbearable climate changes getting in the way of their fun. Although work schedules may need to be tweaked for those in the labor markets, retirees tend to prepare a vacation whenever it suits them. Also, tudents are typically fond of visiting on their own time, particularly those enrolled in online colleges that make it possible to submit assignments over the computer.

Overall, the weather in Algarve is ideal. Temperatures normally stay between 77 degrees to 95 degrees fahrenheit throughout most of the warmer months and typically never drops below freezing level (32 degrees fahrenheit) during the cooler months. In addition, it remains one of the most sunniest regions in the world and hardly gets rainfall. The area’s Meditteranean climate results in an influx of visitors flocking there during the holidays.

Weather by Season

Winter

Most people assume that every region experience drastic changes during the winter season. However, Algarve is among the few places that incurs very little alterations. From late November to February, temperatures are likely to fluctuate between 50 and 60 degrees fahrenheit. Occasionally, there tends to be more frosty weather, and rainfall is at its peak but the overall atmospheric condition is considered mild compared to other parts of Europe at this time. Those who want a fairly gentle winter and don’t mind some wet days will find this spot most suitable.

Spring

In the springtime, weather in the Algarve is extremely pleasant, especially for visitors who enjoy more sunshine accompanied by light breezes. March through May promises warmer temperatures that cool down during the evenings, particularly in areas near the ocean. Lovers of greenery and outdoor activities are urged to come during this time since plantlife is revived and the climate possess some coolness that makes it comfortable to engage in happenings that promote high energy and/or strenuous movement.

Summer

Those who are at their best in the sunshine will revel in Algarve’s climate between June and August. At this time, tourists can experience balmy conditions to seering heat. Normal  summer temperatures normally range from the mid 70′s to the mid 90′s, enabling people to cool off at one of Algarve’s many beaches. Be mindful of considerably dry atmospheres, as well as high levels of wind and sand that are blown in from the Sahara dessert.

Fall

Like the summer, autumn can remain fairly warm, especially in September and October. By November, the regions typically witnesses a dramatic cooldown with temperatures as low as 55 degrees. The weather becomes even colder as the sun goes down and night sets in, particularly in coastal areas. If you’re a fan of nature and attracted to the fall’s aesthetic quality, this is a good time to go on a few hikes or simply watch the leaves turn colors from the comfort of one Algarve’s many cheap hotels.

Sources
TripAdvisor, LLC. (2012).
HolidayWeather.com. (2012).

Joy Martin works with Article Writing Services to write travel content for Online Colleges and other websites and blogs. To find more information on traveling to Algarve, visit Global Travel Blogs.

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