First timer questions

[Stellaluna]

Hi all, I am Jennifer from Ottawa and I am 99% sure that I will be walking the Primitivo to Santiago (and then on to Finisterre) starting in early July. I did the Coast to Coast walk last summer in Northern England and am now hooked on long distance walking. I am a bit concerned about the heat in Spain but as someone posted somewhere here... you just have to accept it as a part of the way. I can do that.
It seems as though I should buy a plane ticket soon to seal my commitment. Is there any financial benefit to buying a ticket this long before my departure date??
Before I buy a ticket I need to firm up my dates. Is there any time in July when I should avoid arriving in Santiago? Someone mentioned the 25th but I haven't seen anything else about that.
Thanks in advance for any input you can give me.
(It's a nice feeling to be joining this forum... makes the whole thing feel more real!)

 

[Anemone del Camino]

July 25th is the Saint's day. I would think that is the one day to be there to see the festivities. After all, if you are going to put up with summer heat might as well enjoy the party. If you are concerned by the high temps in the height of summer consider an umbrella, especially one with special silver coating that cuts down felt temps. Lots of info,on these if you search the forum.

 

[Stellaluna]

Thanks Anemone. I can't imagine walking for a long time with an umbrella. Perhaps it attaches to one's pack? I'll look into it.

 

[Anemone del Camino]

Thanks Anemone. I can't imagine walking for a long time with an umbrella. Perhaps it attaches to one's pack? I'll look into it.

Umbrella's are a little known secret, and those who have them love them. There are umbrella's, like mine, made to be used without you having to hold them. Google Euroschrim handless trekking umbrella. There are also ways to rig your backpack with tiny bungie cords and bits of foam to use a regular umbrella. Someone of the Forum put up pictures of this just a few weeks ago.