goldenguy422 said:
Hello everybody,
I'm heading out to begin the Frances this Friday (Feb 18th). I'm flying into Bilbao and heading to Pamplona (by bus) to officially start my journey. I have been training for a few weeks now, am mentally prepared, and have myself a good pack, boots, socks, hat, sleeping bag, map, and sets of clothes. Are there any tips I would benefit from before I head out? I have read through the posts here, but everything may not have sunk in. Any bits of advice would be greatly appreciated.
Thank you!
Remember that every step counts. There may be a time or two when you're not sure how much farther you can go, but it's surprising how far you can travel by keeping on putting one foot in front of the other. At the same time, it's not a race (unless you choose to make it so!) and you can stop when you need to, or want to. This is your Camino and you get to create it however you would like. Follow your instinct and your heart... all of the wisdom and guidance you need for this journey is already inside you. And, don't be afraid to ask for help! You will meet many helpful friends along the way (and sometimes they'll reach out to guide you before you realise you were headed for a problem!)
The "El Corte Ingles" department stores in Pamplona and Leon have wonderful, wonderful food shops on their lower level. Well worth checking out! (There is no food shop at the El Corte Ingles in Burgos.) Plan to stock up on food for Sundays when shops are usually closed (not always the case, but often in my experience). If you plan to use computers at albergues for internet access along the way, keep in mind that the incidental Euros spent here and there can add up quickly!
If you meet someone interesting who you think you might like to keep in touch with, get their contact information/e-mail address then! It's amazing how quickly you can lose track of people on the Camino. There were people I got separated from on my journey that I wish I now had contact information for. However, you may also be delightfully surprised at how the universe matches you up again with people you'd "lost" and didn't think you'd see again - sometimes days or even weeks later!
If you walk through Ponferrada, watch for the arrow across the bridge where you're supposed to go right! I got lost in Ponferrada for two hours (and met two other couples plus a single woman, who also got lost)... not my best day, though lots of life lessons learned!
Be open to the unexpected... even as prepared as you are, some surprises will pop up. They may be the most lovely gifts of your journey. As others have said, look behind you from time to time. Amazing what beautiful and delicious surprises can be there (glorious sunrises, for one).
Buen Camino!
Enjoy the Way -- your way.
Rachel