In the beginning THEN WE WALKED was a simple blog. Its purpose was to keep friends and family up to date on my progress along the Camino Frances in Spain; it was, if you like, an online journal. When I announced my 1007 kilometre long hike along the Via de la Plata from Seville to Santiago de Compostela, those same friends and family asked me to continue with my blog.

What I learned during that adventure was that my blog had become an essential part of my walk. It was more than simply recording my day. I recorded my thoughts, what I saw, how I felt, my mood, my joys, my highs and my lows, funny stories, sad stories, dull stories and crazy stories; my journal became my confidant and was, and remains, an integral part of my walking experience. Since those first steps on the Camino I have changed and my blog has changed with me.

Within these pages you’ll discover more about my solo hikes along the Camino de Santiago in France, Spain and Portugal, and read about mine and Gerry’s travels across the globe. There’s a great deal of information within these pages (especially aimed at the over 50’s and those travelling independently in retirement) and I hope that you enjoy reading them as much as I enjoy writing them! I also love to receive your thoughts and comments and I’ll do my best to reply to all!