Hi Katy - "getting concerned about it" is an integral part of the pre-journey .. it becomes nervousness .. one can even start thinking "why am I doing this" "can I really do this" "I don't want to do this" etc - this is all normal! Pre Camino nerves ... the front of the brain, the chattering mind, wants and needs certainty so it throws up all sorts of thoughts - at its heart it is fear - this is ok! Honestly, this is ok, - because there is no certainty .. your pilgrimage is completely unpredictable .. all our pilgrimages are, so all is well.
From the moment you take your first steps you will be a pilgrim - so every single thing that manifests will be dealt with - all is well.
Eating veggie can be rather difficult but it can be done - I don't have that experience but I am sure that veggie forum members will join in and give you the info you need.
So, your questions;
try not to plan exactly how far you will walk, just walk the distance that your body feels comfortable with, especially the first week - overdoing it is a recipe for disaster as you increase the chances of your body failing - so take it easy, be kind to yourself. There is a lot to be said for staying in smaller refugios "in between" the days stages given by the
Brierley (though
Brierley does list in-between refugios) - they will be more happy to see you, you may meet more independent relaxed pilgrims, you may have more 'special' or intimate experiences .. but in the end it doesn't really matter - you will be tired and just want a place to stay - you will become truly relaxed about this.
There will be places to stay.
They will be there on the Camino, you will see signs for them, lots of them - if any problem step into the nearest bar and ask there.
When you arrive in St Jean go to the medieval cobbled street that leads down to the bridge you go over to start ....all along there are countless refugios and there will be signs saying full (or not full), as well as this you just go into the pilgrim's office (halfway up on the left) and get your first stamp (sello) and ask them - they have all the information. But - if it makes you feel safer then do book into a refugio before you leave home. Re Roncesvalles - loads of room! the main refugio is a revamped 12th century hospital with smart bathrooms downstairs (the refugio you see in
The Way) so no need to book - especially in May.
The bathroom facilities vary depending upon the refugio. Some are separated in male female, others are communal (only the sinks! each shower has a door!!!)
Some are excellent, some are ok, a few are poor - but they all provide what you need.
Thinking about staying in refugios, can be a hard one - in the modern world we tend not to be used to cramming into strange places with complete strangers .. and, true, at first one is self-conscious, but after a few nights the refugio becomes a welcoming thought. One knows how it all works, and can look forward to the other pilgrims to be met, the sharing of meals, the offering help such as first aid or receiving help from others ... a travelling community of strangers who become closer than family.
May! Not long now - be not afraid - All is Well!
Buen Camino