13 Comments
Sep 14Liked by Narina Exelby

Love this! Preparing for Via de la Plata next but always love hearing stories of people making their own way.

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Ah Megan – wow!! What time of year do you plan on walking it? And will you set out alone? Mark's book of the journey – which is as much about Spain as it is the route he took – was released last month. I interviewed him about Vagabond, and you can take a listen to that here: https://narinaexelby.substack.com/p/bonus-edition-author-interview-mark

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Sep 14Liked by Narina Exelby

Will definitely check this out! Thanks! I love Spain so much — grew up there and never get tired of learning more. This time I’ll go with my partner — planning to leave in November when the heat is gone. Can’t wait!

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I’ve just subscribed to your Substack, and look forward to following your journey. Buen Camino!

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Thank you! 🙏

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May 27, 2022Liked by Narina Exelby

Go Mark ! Bloody awesome ! I can imagine that Roman encampment sends shivers down my body ! Wishing you well and I hope the skin on your heal grows back thick and tough so you can enjoy the walk even more.

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Here's to thick-skinned heels :) Thank you – will pass your message on to Mark.

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May 26, 2022Liked by Narina Exelby

I've done a 750 km section of the Pacific Crest Trail. Lots of elevation change, and sometimes 7-10 days between towns. We also had a clear trail to follow. It sounds like Mark sometimes has to find his own way, without a trail. How does he manage to stay on course when this occurs?

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Hi David; what an epic adventure that trail must have been! How long did it take you? Mark has long been a fan of MapsWithMe, and he has Spain downloaded on his phone. He’ll also be using Google Maps, which he studied for ages and set a route up based on what he saw from the satellite view. But, as with his first day, that route didn’t work out so he’d have navigated his way to what looked like an alternative.

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May 26, 2022Liked by Narina Exelby

Have had to have a sit down after seeing that blister, well done mark, im so proud of you! I totally would've given up after 15 mins, you are a inspiration (although not quite inspirational enough to make me want to follow your routes) xx

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Amber <3 I passed your message on to Mark, who sends his love and says, thank you :)

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May 26, 2022Liked by Narina Exelby

Those blisters look hard-core. Respect Mark, listening to Van Morrison now too - enjoying following your journey !

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Crazy hey Ro? Hopefully all that blister-pampering Mark's doing will pay off soon!

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