Albergues Unisex Dormitories

[Oak Hill Walkers]

While browsing through my Confraternity of Saint James Pilgrim Guide for Camino Frances, I noticed listings for several albergues indicating that the dormitories were unisex.

Is that the case in general for all albergues? Are they all unisex?

You see, if my wife and I can stay in the same dormitory room, then one of us can watch our kits while one takes a shower and such. Of course, if we get separated into separate rooms, then one of us can take both kits.

[Covey]

Unisex it is!!

It comes as a bit of a shock to some (mainly da Ladies!)to discover at Roncesvalles that 100+ of you all sleep in the same room in bunk beds which are very very close together and that you do not even know the nationality, let alone the name of the man sleeping 20cm from your side.

However, after 3 days, nobody bats an eyelid, and your only worry is "do they snore?"

Ladies find carrying a Sarong useful, as apart from its normal use, it also doubles as a sheet, towel and impromptu shower screen.

You don't have to worry about kit too much. As long as you do not leave ipods and cameras lying around, it is safe.

[Sil]

I was one of those shocked ladies on my first camino! I emailed my husband from Pamplona and told him that I had a confession to make. On the first night at Roncesvalles I slept on top of a German and at Larrsoana I had a Frenchman on top of me!!

Nobody will want to steal your backpack! But, even if you have someone to watch your valuables its best to wrap them in a waterproof sac and take them with you wherever you go.