Domestic bliss

From last leaving Logrono to first checking in to Santo Domingo, what a difference two days makes. This isn't as impressive as it sounds, more likely everyone else just pushed on and I was the first not to. Regardless, it gave me the run of the place to settle in.

This always looks broadly similar, so here it is for you to imagine we're doing it together.

1. Take a seat opposite the hospitalero in charge, offer them your passport and your credential and watch as they scan one and stamp the other. Take the slip with your bed number on it, listen to the house guide (where everything is, what time the door closes, what time to be out tomorrow) and receive your crinkly plastic present.

2. Take your shoes off and put them in the side room, changing into your sandals - these should be at the very top of your bag.

3. Poke your head around checking out the place as you find your room and then your bed, don't put your backpack on it!

4. If you're responsible, immediately make the bed using the disposable pillow case and fitted sheet you've been provided, and unsheathe your sleeping bag. I've just started being responsible, so I can say this.

4. Unpack your bag onto the bed, releasing your

- charger and book (install these near the head of your bed)

- medicine canister (put this in the fridge and the cool brick inside in the freezer, if there is one)

- rest clothes, clean underwear and socks, soap, and towel

5. Shower and change into rest clothes. Nobody showers in the morning, as far as we're all concerned the day resets after you walk.

6. Take your walking clothes and towel to the laundry room, wash them and hang to dry.

The day is now yours, admin is over, and the town sort of goes to sleep between 2 and 5pm anyway. I sat in the garden with my book, which I really am loving, had a nap (the last few days caught up with me), went to the supermarket and cooked dinner, then went for a long walk around the town.

Before bed, put absolutely everything loose into your bag so that in the morning you can get up, grab your sleeping bag and your pack, and leave the room swiftly and silently. Pack up in a common area while you sip your coffee. Not everyone has this step down yet but give them time.Læs mere