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It's pretty crowded now so unless you are staying in private rooms or going off stages I doubt you will be alone in dorms.I may, or may not, head to SJPDP to walk the CF alone next week.
I’ve posted about the complicated background to this in a previous thread. I’m still undecided. But three questions here…
1) Those of you who’ve previously walked caminos but with partners, or staying in private rooms rather than dorms… how did you find the switch?
2) Any thoughts about the process of feeling fear about a Camino? I mean, I’m used to trepidation and excitement mixed together, and also to the whole idea seeming oddly alien until you actually arrive. But… 30+ days, crossing Spain on foot, alone. I’m not very used to being alone, albeit I’d need to walk alone a lot (long story but I’ll be dictating chapters of a book as I go… if I go).
3) Albergues in smaller, off-stage villages… is it difficult to avoid situations where it’s just two pilgrims in a bedroom together? I’m asking this in particular of the women here, and of people who haven’t ended up walking in groups.
I'm surprised that you and your partner have not made a decision on this by now after all the many replies/input that was generated when you contemplated this walk alone and asked for input.I may, or may not, head to SJPDP to walk the CF alone next week.
We have gone round and round and round. I’ve never found myself so conflicted about anything in my life! I am serious. It feels pivotal to me, somehow. But the above questions are quite different to my previous ones, and I’ve asked them because they’re the ones I need to focus on right now, before I pull the trigger and book flights… or don’t. Thanks for responding.I'm surprised that you and your partner have not made a decision on this by now after all the many replies/input that was generated when you contemplated this walk alone and asked for input.
Good luck in whatever you decide and if you go alone, please post a bit on the forum on how it is going for you. Since you have walked a Camino before, I think you have a good idea what you may experience, even if alone. You will probably connect more often with other walkers and be enriched from those interactions.
Then you should probably go, in order to take care of this conflict. If it turns out to be unproductive or uncomfortable, it would be easy and totally reasonable to abandon it and go back home.I’ve never found myself so conflicted about anything in my life! I am serious.
Certainly these questions can lead to interesting discussions, but I don't see how you can expect any answers that will change your decision-making outcome. You have been there, so you know what to expect from the Camino. The rest is related to what you can expect from yourself, and only you know that.I’ve asked them because they’re the ones I need to focus on right now
It was different, but I like just having to look after myself. When I took my husband I had to look out for him. He took too much gear and spread it around the place, so he would be a poor candidate for albergue life.I may, or may not, head to SJPDP to walk the CF alone next week.
I’ve posted about the complicated background to this in a previous thread. I’m still undecided. But three questions here…
1) Those of you who’ve previously walked caminos but with partners, or staying in private rooms rather than dorms… how did you find the switch?
I didnt feel fear - tiredness sometimes, but not fear. I walked in September when you are planning - so its quite busy, lots of people about. We formed a Camino family early on, didn't walk together but stayed in the same places.2) Any thoughts about the process of feeling fear about a Camino? I mean, I’m used to trepidation and excitement mixed together, and also to the whole idea seeming oddly alien until you actually arrive. But… 30+ days, crossing Spain on foot, alone. I’m not very used to being alone, albeit I’d need to walk alone a lot (long story but I’ll be dictating chapters of a book as I go… if I go).
This really didnt happen as I booked in the dormitory. I was always in a room with lots of people. Plus September was busy, there were always other people about. We had a small group of 6 and a wider group of about 20. I found I knew a lot of people. I did book a hostel or hotel room once a week or so and shared, but by that time I knew people well.3) Albergues in smaller, off-stage villages… is it difficult to avoid situations where it’s just two pilgrims in a bedroom together? I’m asking this in particular of the women here, and of people who haven’t ended up walking in groups.
Not sure what you are asking.1) Those of you who’ve previously walked caminos but with partners, or staying in private rooms rather than dorms… how did you find the switch?
@Lhollo, you know what you're in for, so see if you can find away not to overthink it.2) Any thoughts about the process of feeling fear about a Camino?
On the Frances right now it's really unlikely you'll encounter this kind of situation. You may be in a bunkroom that's not full, perhaps, but you'll be with more than one other person. The only time this has happened to me is on less traveled routes.3) Albergues in smaller, off-stage villages… is it difficult to avoid situations where it’s just two pilgrims in a bedroom together? I’m asking this in particular of the women here, and of people who haven’t ended up walking in groups.
You will not find an albergue with fewer than three people in it in August and September this year on the Camino Frances.I may, or may not, head to SJPDP to walk the CF alone next week.
I’ve posted about the complicated background to this in a previous thread. I’m still undecided. But three questions here…
1) Those of you who’ve previously walked caminos but with partners, or staying in private rooms rather than dorms… how did you find the switch?
2) Any thoughts about the process of feeling fear about a Camino? I mean, I’m used to trepidation and excitement mixed together, and also to the whole idea seeming oddly alien until you actually arrive. But… 30+ days, crossing Spain on foot, alone. I’m not very used to being alone, albeit I’d need to walk alone a lot (long story but I’ll be dictating chapters of a book as I go… if I go).
3) Albergues in smaller, off-stage villages… is it difficult to avoid situations where it’s just two pilgrims in a bedroom together? I’m asking this in particular of the women here, and of people who haven’t ended up walking in groups.
Your decision as always!.(your doing it not us)Finally, why not go and try? If it doesn't work out, then bailout and go somewhere else for a few days - beach, city... nearly every town has a bus! But as a solo female I've enjoyed walking on caminos, sure there have been issues, incidents and problems, but overcoming brings a sense of achievement.
The best advice I can give is that fear is not a brick wall, it's a feeling and it is up to you to decide whether you can go or not. You can't do 30 days of anything and have every day be perfect. You're lucky if you get 30 mins of perfect most of the time. You will be alone and there will be times you will hate it and times you love it and most of the time it won't bother you either way because you're too busy getting to the next town. But it won't be fatal, it'll be uncomfortable. Realistically, the worst thing that could happen is you reach the end and you didn't enjoy it. Fear is a natural, rational feeling but it is only a feeling like being cold or being tired and only you can decide whether or not it's your mind being truthful or lying to you. Just because it's your voice in your head doesn't mean it won't lie.2) Any thoughts about the process of feeling fear about a Camino? I mean, I’m used to trepidation and excitement mixed together, and also to the whole idea seeming oddly alien until you actually arrive. But… 30+ days, crossing Spain on foot, alone. I’m not very used to being alone, albeit I’d need to walk alone a lot (long story but I’ll be dictating chapters of a book as I go… if I go).
I personally prefer walking alone so I can start when I want, stop when I want, and do what I want.1) Those of you who’ve previously walked caminos but with partners, or staying in private rooms rather than dorms… how did you find the switch?
You won't be alone. The Camino is very busy and there will be pilgrims ahead and behind you from the first day you start. You'll make friends the first night so if you WANT walking partners, you'll find them easily. If you want to walk alone, there will be people ahead and behind you if you DO need any help. No worries.2) Any thoughts about the process of feeling fear about a Camino? I mean, I’m used to trepidation and excitement mixed together, and also to the whole idea seeming oddly alien until you actually arrive. But… 30+ days, crossing Spain on foot, alone. I’m not very used to being alone, albeit I’d need to walk alone a lot (long story but I’ll be dictating chapters of a book as I go… if I
There are several albergues where 2 pilgrims are in a room together, which is actually preferred by some for a better night's sleep. Those I can think of offhand are at Cacabellos, Ponferrada, and Azofra. Generally, in my experience, in these places they will place women together if asked. And by the time you reach these places, you will probably have made friends who can room with you.3) Albergues in smaller, off-stage villages… is it difficult to avoid situations where it’s just two pilgrims in a bedroom together? I’m asking this in particular of the women here, and of people who haven’t ended up walking in groups.
Hi there. I don't know how much that I can help here are my thoughts - it's what this forum is for, no?I may, or may not, head to SJPDP to walk the CF alone next week.
I’ve posted about the complicated background to this in a previous thread. I’m still undecided. But three questions here…
1) Those of you who’ve previously walked caminos but with partners, or staying in private rooms rather than dorms… how did you find the switch?
2) Any thoughts about the process of feeling fear about a Camino? I mean, I’m used to trepidation and excitement mixed together, and also to the whole idea seeming oddly alien until you actually arrive. But… 30+ days, crossing Spain on foot, alone. I’m not very used to being alone, albeit I’d need to walk alone a lot (long story but I’ll be dictating chapters of a book as I go… if I go).
3) Albergues in smaller, off-stage villages… is it difficult to avoid situations where it’s just two pilgrims in a bedroom together? I’m asking this in particular of the women here, and of people who haven’t ended up walking in groups.
Beware analysis paralysis and worry scurry. It’s a lovely soft adventure in a safe civilized country. Many worries will not manifest and most of the others will resolve themselves. Go, have an Albariño and walk it off.I may, or may not, head to SJPDP to walk the CF alone next week.
I’ve posted about the complicated background to this in a previous thread. I’m still undecided. But three questions here…
1) Those of you who’ve previously walked caminos but with partners, or staying in private rooms rather than dorms… how did you find the switch?
2) Any thoughts about the process of feeling fear about a Camino? I mean, I’m used to trepidation and excitement mixed together, and also to the whole idea seeming oddly alien until you actually arrive. But… 30+ days, crossing Spain on foot, alone. I’m not very used to being alone, albeit I’d need to walk alone a lot (long story but I’ll be dictating chapters of a book as I go… if I go).
3) Albergues in smaller, off-stage villages… is it difficult to avoid situations where it’s just two pilgrims in a bedroom together? I’m asking this in particular of the women here, and of people who haven’t ended up walking in groups.
I felt the same way mixed feeling about doing it. I had known no one in my circle or life that had ever attempted something like this or would even consider it. I am extremely introverted and do not like groups in any way or form and the idea of crowded Albergues had me worried. I always felt safe and I walked a lot predawn in the dark, but I understand women may feel somewhat different. I met a lady riding the bus from downtown Santiago to the airport in Santiago we were heading home. She was a lady about 60 from Saskatchewan and she said she had walked it totally alone, had no issues and just loved it. The trail to me is magic. I felt it. To me it was a blessing to walk alone. Buen Camino and good luck.I may, or may not, head to SJPDP to walk the CF alone next week.
I’ve posted about the complicated background to this in a previous thread. I’m still undecided. But three questions here…
1) Those of you who’ve previously walked caminos but with partners, or staying in private rooms rather than dorms… how did you find the switch?
2) Any thoughts about the process of feeling fear about a Camino? I mean, I’m used to trepidation and excitement mixed together, and also to the whole idea seeming oddly alien until you actually arrive. But… 30+ days, crossing Spain on foot, alone. I’m not very used to being alone, albeit I’d need to walk alone a lot (long story but I’ll be dictating chapters of a book as I go… if I go).
3) Albergues in smaller, off-stage villages… is it difficult to avoid situations where it’s just two pilgrims in a bedroom together? I’m asking this in particular of the women here, and of people who haven’t ended up walking in groups.
Hi LindseyI may, or may not, head to SJPDP to walk the CF alone next week.
I’ve posted about the complicated background to this in a previous thread. I’m still undecided. But three questions here…
1) Those of you who’ve previously walked caminos but with partners, or staying in private rooms rather than dorms… how did you find the switch?
2) Any thoughts about the process of feeling fear about a Camino? I mean, I’m used to trepidation and excitement mixed together, and also to the whole idea seeming oddly alien until you actually arrive. But… 30+ days, crossing Spain on foot, alone. I’m not very used to being alone, albeit I’d need to walk alone a lot (long story but I’ll be dictating chapters of a book as I go… if I go).
3) Albergues in smaller, off-stage villages… is it difficult to avoid situations where it’s just two pilgrims in a bedroom together? I’m asking this in particular of the women here, and of people who haven’t ended up walking in groups.
I may, or may not, head to SJPDP to walk the CF alone next week.
I’ve posted about the complicated background to this in a previous thread. I’m still undecided. But three questions here…
1) Those of you who’ve previously walked caminos but with partners, or staying in private rooms rather than dorms… how did you find the switch?
2) Any thoughts about the process of feeling fear about a Camino? I mean, I’m used to trepidation and excitement mixed together, and also to the whole idea seeming oddly alien until you actually arrive. But… 30+ days, crossing Spain on foot, alone. I’m not very used to being alone, albeit I’d need to walk alone a lot (long story but I’ll be dictating chapters of a book as I go… if I go).
3) Albergues in smaller, off-stage villages… is it difficult to avoid situations where it’s just two pilgrims in a bedroom together? I’m asking this in particular of the women here, and of people who haven’t ended up walking in groups.
1) The first time I walked the Frances, I used private rooms with a friend. I was 62, she 57. Both very healthy with no medications or issues. I really cannot recall having any fears about doing it. I am sure it was because I only had one month between learning about the Camino and actually doing it. That month between was very busy and I did not have any time to read the blogs or forums to learn much about it. Had I done so I probably would have been scared out of my mind and may have backed out. Sooooo glad that I didn't. I would not trade the experience for anything. I must admit though, I was a bit concerned about keeping up with my friend who was an avid camper, hiker, and runner. I, on the other hand walked a few miles a couple of times a week. (Imagine my surprise when I blew her socks off. But I digress. Story for another day.)I may, or may not, head to SJPDP to walk the CF alone next week.
I’ve posted about the complicated background to this in a previous thread. I’m still undecided. But three questions here…
1) Those of you who’ve previously walked caminos but with partners, or staying in private rooms rather than dorms… how did you find the switch?
2) Any thoughts about the process of feeling fear about a Camino? I mean, I’m used to trepidation and excitement mixed together, and also to the whole idea seeming oddly alien until you actually arrive. But… 30+ days, crossing Spain on foot, alone. I’m not very used to being alone, albeit I’d need to walk alone a lot (long story but I’ll be dictating chapters of a book as I go… if I go).
3) Albergues in smaller, off-stage villages… is it difficult to avoid situations where it’s just two pilgrims in a bedroom together? I’m asking this in particular of the women here, and of people who haven’t ended up walking in groups.
I’m absolutely terrified myself!I may, or may not, head to SJPDP to walk the CF alone next week.
I’ve posted about the complicated background to this in a previous thread. I’m still undecided. But three questions here…
1) Those of you who’ve previously walked caminos but with partners, or staying in private rooms rather than dorms… how did you find the switch?
2) Any thoughts about the process of feeling fear about a Camino? I mean, I’m used to trepidation and excitement mixed together, and also to the whole idea seeming oddly alien until you actually arrive. But… 30+ days, crossing Spain on foot, alone. I’m not very used to being alone, albeit I’d need to walk alone a lot (long story but I’ll be dictating chapters of a book as I go… if I go).
3) Albergues in smaller, off-stage villages… is it difficult to avoid situations where it’s just two pilgrims in a bedroom together? I’m asking this in particular of the women here, and of people who haven’t ended up walking in groups.
I am also traveling alone. At the moment, I am not scared or nervous. I am beginning the walk August 30th. I would love to have a friend to walk with, but I feel there will be plenty of people to tag along with. If you look at the busiest months on the Camino, September is one of them. Somewhere online I saw a diagram of how busy the camino is by month. I had hoped that September would be NOT so busy. No such luck. Wish you were leaving later. We could walk together.It's pretty crowded now so unless you are staying in private rooms or going off stages I doubt you will be alone in dorms.
You may walk alone but it isn't exactly trailblazing. It's a well traveled route that often cuts through villages etc.
Also don't think of it as 30 days of crossing Spain - the vastness can be overwhelming. Think of it as walking 20-25km a day. One day at a time. Set finite goals.
With regards to Q3. I walked alone this past Apr/May, my 1st Camino, and I did stay in a few albergues where there was only 1 other in my room. Two come to mind, in Villares de Orbigo (Alb. El Encante, very pretty) and Cacabelos (Alb St James Way, where google maps lead me up the garden path looking for it when it was right under my nose). The latter was with a male in a room that had 4 beds and it's own bathroom. I'm 61, he was in his 20's, a shy Korean, I had seen him on the walk. We quickly sorted out showering and sleeping arrangements, what time each was getting up in the morning etc I never felt uncomfortable. I was doing my best to make him feel comfortable! There were other rooms in the albergue that held more people, and possibly single/double rooms from memory. I chose one with 4 beds because of fewer people and the price, so you may have the option of changing rooms if unhappy. I found most albergues would do their best to put you in a room with other woman. Buen CaminoI may, or may not, head to SJPDP to walk the CF alone next week.
I’ve posted about the complicated background to this in a previous thread. I’m still undecided. But three questions here…
1) Those of you who’ve previously walked caminos but with partners, or staying in private rooms rather than dorms… how did you find the switch?
2) Any thoughts about the process of feeling fear about a Camino? I mean, I’m used to trepidation and excitement mixed together, and also to the whole idea seeming oddly alien until you actually arrive. But… 30+ days, crossing Spain on foot, alone. I’m not very used to being alone, albeit I’d need to walk alone a lot (long story but I’ll be dictating chapters of a book as I go… if I go).
3) Albergues in smaller, off-stage villages… is it difficult to avoid situations where it’s just two pilgrims in a bedroom together? I’m asking this in particular of the women here, and of people who haven’t ended up walking in groups.
Just do it and have your Plan B. But go, and figure things out while you’re on the Camino. Don’t overthink it while still at home. You can never have all the answers in advance and your previous experience will aid you in your decision making while on the Camino. As for being alone, I did the Francés in May-June and was alone until León, when a friend joined me for the remaining legs to Santiago. I returned home feeling like I still wanted and needed more alone time. I rarely walked alone and practically never ate alone. I didn’t have a Camino Family per se, but crisscrossed paths with a few other Pilgrims and had meals and coffee stops with them, randomly, here and there. For me, the beauty of the Camino and traveling solo was the option to walk alone during the day, yet never be physically far from other pilgrims on the way, which offered comfort and a feeling of safety as a solo woman—and then have a built-in social life, if you wanted it, at the end of each day in the albergues. I found I ended up walking a portion of every single day with someone. As lovely as that was, I actually didn’t quite get my full fix of solitude and contemplation. There’s another Camino in my future for that reason, among others.We have gone round and round and round. I’ve never found myself so conflicted about anything in my life! I am serious. It feels pivotal to me, somehow. But the above questions are quite different to my previous ones, and I’ve asked them because they’re the ones I need to focus on right now, before I pull the trigger and book flights… or don’t. Thanks for responding.
I hope your Camino is wonderful, and am pretty sure it will be! I'd look forward to updates, if you post them.I am also traveling alone. At the moment, I am not scared or nervous. I am beginning the walk August 30th. I would love to have a friend to walk with, but I feel there will be plenty of people to tag along with. If you look at the busiest months on the Camino, September is one of them. Somewhere online I saw a diagram of how busy the camino is by month. I had hoped that September would be NOT so busy. No such luck. Wish you were leaving later. We could walk together.
Just to address this, which I hadn't answered!… Yes, my sleep system is self-supporting so I'll be fine to sleep anywhere, so long as there's at least a bit of headroom.Will you manage your sleep system on a top bunk if that is the only option?
I am interested, but I am not aware of your Youtube channel although I am sure you must have posted it before.Anyway, if any of you are interested, I'll be posting a video to my Youtube channel tonight, in which I show what I'll be doing instead over the next month (spoiler: wild camping) and talk in some detail about what's been going on with this 'Camino Dilemma' business.
It's called Lindsey Holland Walks, Chrissy. I have a Camino Frances playlist, and will add this new video to that playlist, for the time being at least. I hope you enjoy it, and thanks for being interested!I am interested, but I am not aware of your Youtube channel although I am sure you must have posted it before.
That's good, i was worried about that, i hate top bunks especially if they're shooglyWill you manage your sleep system on a top bunk if that is the only option?
My bare feet hate the climb...pure torture on the rungs; ouch! Thankfully I rarely have had to climb those "mountains".That's good, i was worried about that, i hate top bunks especially if they're shoogly
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