Travel Tips
What are the passport/visa requirements for travel to Portugal? Please ensure that your passport has at least three blank pages and that it is valid for at least six months beyond your departure date from Spain. Please check with your local embassy regarding visa requirements.
What type of clothing is recommended?
Comfortable clothes and shoes are recommended. Propriety dictates that you do not wear shorts or skimpy clothing throughout the Pilgrimage.
How do you recommend I safely keep my money and passport?
While no one expects any trouble, we absolutely recommend that you wear a money belt. In it you can keep your passport, money, plane ticket, credit card and any other very important papers. You can get these at any luggage store or online. Never, ever, ever use a purse or wallet. Fanny packs are another favorite of petty criminals.
Are there currency exchange facilities readily available?
We recommend to change some money into Euros before you depart your country. Your local bank should offer this service (for a fee). The rates you will receive will not be the best, but it's worth a fee to have some local currency when you arrive. The best rates in Madrid will likely be found in the banks.
Are credit or debit cards accepted?
You can buy almost anything in Europe with Visa or Mastercard. You will get the banks exchange rate minus their commission (usually 3-5%). This is a good safety net for emergencies. Be sure to call your credit card company or bank before you travel and let them know your plans so they do not put a hold on your card. Debit cards are very handy to withdraw money anywhere in Europe. Be aware that some ATMs only allow 4-digit pins. Your bank will charge you a withdrawal fee, but you should get a good exchange rate.