Pilgrimage as a pair: how to keep the walk relaxed

In short: No. Many couples walk separately during the day and meet at the end of the stage.

Setting off with your partner or your best friend sounds like a dream. Being together around the clock is also a test, though. A few agreements help.

Your own pace

Hardly any two people have the same pace. If you are constantly holding back or trailing behind, you will soon get unhappy. So feel free to walk some sections on your own and meet up at the next break.

Talk beforehand

Before you start, clear up why each of you is going. One may be looking for quiet, the other for new acquaintances. Talk about money and accommodation too, as a room for two often costs little more than two albergue beds.

Share the responsibility

Take turns: who plans today's stage, who looks for a bed? Pack separately, and each carry your own things. Only share items such as detergent and the first aid kit. That way you each save a few grams too.

Arguments are part of it

Tiredness makes people thin-skinned. Talk things through before dinner rather than in the heat of the moment. A rest day or half a day apart often helps. Being alone has its place on the way too.