I have booked my flight to do the VdlP, but now am doubting myself.

[hailows]

I walked the Camino Frances in 2013. I had no problems with blisters or other injuries. When initially asked "how was it?" I responded by saying "it was a long fricking walk"! I loved it... yet I didn't. A funny thing happened though, after a very short time, I realized that I desperately missed the camino. So, after a year and a half, I booked a flight that will get me to Seville on March 25th, 2015. I want to walk another Camino; my soul yearns for it; I am dreaming about it already.
Now, though, I am starting to worry about whether or not I will be able to do it; whether I am strong enough! Is that normal? I will do the training... but do other "successful" pilgrims doubt their abilities? Just wondering!

I love reading on this forum and value the many contributions.

Slow Walking Stevie Wonder

 

[Dennis D]

I walked the Camino Frances in 2013. I had no problems with blisters or other injuries. When initially asked "how was it?" I responded by saying "it was a long fricking walk"! I loved it... yet I didn't. A funny thing happened though, after a very short time, I realized that I desperately missed the camino. So, after a year and a half, I booked a flight that will get me to Seville on March 25th, 2015. I want to walk another Camino; my soul yearns for it; I am dreaming about it already.
Now, though, I am starting to worry about whether or not I will be able to do it; whether I am strong enough! Is that normal? I will do the training... but do other "successful" pilgrims doubt their abilities? Just wondering!

I love reading on this forum and value the many contributions.

Slow Walking Stevie Wonder

Hello, I think there is a reasonable comparison to "stage fright" and Camino nerves. Once you take the first couple of steps you will be back in the groove. I envy anyone who has not had problems with blisters. You must share your secret one day. My advice to you is to start walking and enjoy the experience again. The second time can only be better. Bottom line is if you want to do it then you can. GO FOR IT!

 

[cecelia]

...When initially asked "how was it?" I responded by saying "it was a long fricking walk"! I loved it... yet I didn't. A funny thing happened though, after a very short time, I realized that I desperately missed the camino. ......
Now, though, I am starting to worry about whether or not I will be able to do it; whether I am strong enough! Is that normal? I will do the training... but do other "successful" pilgrims doubt their abilities? Just wondering!

hey Stevie Wonder - I think I just heard a smirk of satisfaction from the camino saying "Gotcha!"
I'd wager quite a few people have felt much the same as you are feeling. And I'd wager that somewhere along the camino - again - you'll ask yourself "What am I doing here again? Why am I carrying this *&&^% backpack across a country - again? Can I even do this - again?" And at least a part of you will fall in love with the camino experience - again. Just don't expect it to be the same as last time because it'll probably be quite different.
I wish you no blisters or other injuries - again.
Muy buen camino
Cecelia

 

[rubyslippers]

Hello, I think there is a reasonable comparison to "stage fright" and Camino nerves. Once you take the first couple of steps you will be back in the groove. I envy anyone who has not had problems with blisters. You must share your secret one day. My advice to you is to start walking and enjoy the experience again. The second time can only be better. Bottom line is if you want to do it then you can. GO FOR IT!

I hiked in 2008 and tried it again in 2012. i had to quit and fly back to the states and have since had back surgery. Now it's healed I can't wait to hike the Camino again. It really is something, right? Go for it. I'm so excited for you. Not sure when it will be right for me again, but one day soon.

 

[High Endeavours]

You will be fine...anxiety is just part of the pre-walk process. You've been through it all before. Don't doubt yourself, you will be fine...the journey will be special. Simply prepare as well as you can then off you go! You'll wonder what all the self questioning was all about the day you take your first steps on the Plata. Truly... Send me a PM if you want to chat more...very happy to help.

 

[Bogong]

Retired Australian diplomat and Canberra resident Tony Kevin walked from Granada on the Via Mozarebe, joining the Via de la Plata in Merida, in 2006.

He wrote a book about it, covering his own experience, thoughts and motivation, with a good deal of reflections on Spanish history and the then Spanish economic situation as he saw it:

"Walking the Camino; a modern pilgrimage to Santiago", Scribe Publications, ISBN 9781921215445(pbk.)

DeColores

Bogong

 

[camino-david]

The VDLP is different to the Camino Frances. It is more physically challenging in parts - round about week 3. There are fewer villages, and thus fewer opportunities for Café con Leche, fewer walkers, fewer albergues and the walkers seemed to me to be more focussed on walking than on socialising. That is not to that say others are unfriendly, but look out for others who suit your attitude to life and your walking pace. I joined the Camino Frances after a while and found it to be very crowded after the VDLP. I walked in April and May, and the spring flowers were beautiful. The cities you walk through are outstanding - Caceres, Salamanca, etc and date back to Roman times.
Buen Camino

 

[peregrino_tom]

VdlP was my second camino, starting at the beginning of October in 2010. I had quite a lot of jittery nerves at the start and a few things didn't go according to plan. In particular I was caught out by my lack of Spanish - which hadn't been a real obstacle on the CF. The first 9 days to Merida weren't very enjoyable at all and I wanted to chuck it in - going as far as to see whether I could change my return flight date. But I met some great fellow pilgrims who convinced me to walk as far as Caceres before making a final decision.... and in that time everything clicked into place. It was an amazing journey.
It sounds like the biggest challenge these days is understanding and negotiating the 'desvios' caused by the AVE in the later parts and I'd be looking to find out as much about these from all sources - including pilgrims here and hospitalera/os and pilgrims along the way.
From a physical point view of view I found it not much different to the CF except for the first 4/5 days in Galicia, but by that stage you are tough as old boots...
Ach, you'll be fine.

 

[Luka]

... and the walkers seemed to me to be more focussed on walking than on socialising.

Fortunately I had a different experience. Because the numbers are a lot smaller, I found the VdlP more social than the anonymous crowds on the Frances. Maybe I was lucky. In the first albergue in Guillena we were with 11 pilgrims. All of us had come alone. Lots of different nationalities and everyone socialised with everyone. Also later on I had the same experience. Age, nationality, even language didn't matter, we were all together.

 

[fraluchi]

I walked the Camino "it was a long fricking walk"!

And any future Camino will seem the same. Unless you analyse the pros and cons, sleep a few nights on the issues before taking a decision, and compare with other Camino options. Santiago is our and most walkers' goal and only by conscienciously analysing our desires can we eventually come to a sensible conclusion. Take your time, read this Forum's members advice and take a decision which fits your conditions. Ultreya in 2015

 

[filly]

I walked the Camino Frances in 2013. I had no problems with blisters or other injuries. When initially asked "how was it?" I responded by saying "it was a long fricking walk"! I loved it... yet I didn't. A funny thing happened though, after a very short time, I realized that I desperately missed the camino. So, after a year and a half, I booked a flight that will get me to Seville on March 25th, 2015. I want to walk another Camino; my soul yearns for it; I am dreaming about it already.
Now, though, I am starting to worry about whether or not I will be able to do it; whether I am strong enough! Is that normal? I will do the training... but do other "successful" pilgrims doubt their abilities? Just wondering!

I love reading on this forum and value the many contributions.

Slow Walking Stevie Wonder

Hello. Rest assures it was my best Camino yet and I do plan to walk the whole way again. Sensational! Reasonably lonely but you will meet others in the evening and hopefully get in to a group. I completed the walk over two years.

 

[High Endeavours]

Retired Australian diplomat and Canberra resident Tony Kevin walked from Granada on the Via Mozarebe, joining the Via de la Plata in Merida, in 2006.

He wrote a book about it, covering his own experience, thoughts and motivation, with a good deal of reflections on Spanish history and the then Spanish economic situation as he saw it:

"Walking the Camino; a modern pilgrimage to Santiago", Scribe Publications, ISBN 9781921215445(pbk.)

DeColores

Bogong

Yes, I just happened to read his book before I went...a friend from the Frances sent it to me. He carried just about everything in his pack including a hammock! By his own admission he was unprepared and a bit nuts about what he took, and he finally got rid of much of his gear after having so much trouble with his feet. I enjoyed his writing and he certainly grew and learned as he went. I too would recommend for a background read.

 

[pilgrim b]

Buen Camino hailows and welcome to the forum. You know from previous experience "Slow Walking Stevie Wonder" that the camino provides you with all you need so take courage and prepare for another very special adventure!

 

[JenniFromCali]

Go for it! I walked the CF in 2012 then the Norte in 2013. Then the summer of 2014 I did the VDLP. Well sort of... I got as far as Caceras on the VDLP when another pilgrim and I decided we'd leave the VDLP and do the CF again starting in Pamplona (due to time constraints). The 30km days, in 90+ degrees with no shade, no people, no food/water (except that which you carry with you), was more than we wanted to deal with... on top of very infected feet. The toughness of the VDLP made us really appreciate the CF. It's your Camino, there are no "rules", so just go for it!

Buen Camino!

 

[Helen Mannersjö]

I walked the Camino Frances in 2013. I had no problems with blisters or other injuries. When initially asked "how was it?" I responded by saying "it was a long fricking walk"! I loved it... yet I didn't. A funny thing happened though, after a very short time, I realized that I desperately missed the camino. So, after a year and a half, I booked a flight that will get me to Seville on March 25th, 2015. I want to walk another Camino; my soul yearns for it; I am dreaming about it already.
Now, though, I am starting to worry about whether or not I will be able to do it; whether I am strong enough! Is that normal? I will do the training... but do other "successful" pilgrims doubt their abilities? Just wondering!

I love reading on this forum and value the many contributions.

Slow Walking Stevie Wonder

We will start about the same time from Sevilla Stevie Wonder. It will be great
Hope to see you somewhere.

Buen Camino

Helen & Ann

 

[mmm042]

Enjoy your walk next year -- you'll do fine. I've walked about 7 times now, and every time I have doubts at one point or another -- if I have a long day ahead of me, if it's raining all day, if my shoes and socks get soaked within the first hour, etc. Yet I always finish, and I always have a great time. Sometimes it's a great time simply because the day was very tough and yet I made it.

Melanie

 

[hailows]

Thank you all for your comments.
"Stage Fright"... yes, that accurately captures what I am feeling about my upcoming VdlP. I believe I can do it, although some of your experiences sound horrific! That is the Camino: "a box of chocolates"!
I look forward to seeing some of you (Helen and Ann) on the road.
May your Camino of life be gentle and blessed!
Buen Camino all!
SWSW

 

[crackmrmac]

I think the Camino routes in Spain are an ideal & safe opportunity to move outside yer comfort zone. All will be well.
Buen Camino.

 

[Arn]

The Dr is IN:
Don't make this Camino!
If you do:
You will regret not sitting at home doing the same old, same old.
You will regret not being lost in the memories of the last Camino..and over time you can't remember them anyhow.
You will regret not reorganizing your sock drawer and, each time, pushing those hiking socks farther back out of sight.
You will...actually...you won't.
The Camino calls...answer!!!
Buen "one more time" Camino,
Arn

 

[Mark Petersen]

I walked the Camino Frances in 2013. I had no problems with blisters or other injuries. When initially asked "how was it?" I responded by saying "it was a long fricking walk"! I loved it... yet I didn't. A funny thing happened though, after a very short time, I realized that I desperately missed the camino. So, after a year and a half, I booked a flight that will get me to Seville on March 25th, 2015. I want to walk another Camino; my soul yearns for it; I am dreaming about it already.
Now, though, I am starting to worry about whether or not I will be able to do it; whether I am strong enough! Is that normal? I will do the training... but do other "successful" pilgrims doubt their abilities? Just wondering!

I love reading on this forum and value the many contributions.

Slow Walking Stevie Wonder

I had the very same experience - loved it and hated it. But once again yearning to repeat... Thanks for posting.

 

[rubyslippers]

Yes, for the first 2 1/2 weeks my Spirit and my Ego battled. Can I complete it? Too old? Too Fat? Well, I made it and the Spirit ended the journey in 1st. position. Ego still knocks at the door, but I tell her where to sit. So happy for you! I told my Brother when I returned about the 2 voices in my head. He said, "I'd be glad if I could get the conversation down to just 2!" He calls them the Committee. Buen Camino Mark!

 

[hailows]

Well, I made it! After being anxious before I left, the walk was wonderful and free of significant problems. I met a lot of wonderful people and saw some amazing country.
Yes, the VdlP is a little more difficult in places but it has the benefit of being relatively free of that feeling of a bed-race. After getting to Santiago I felt the need to keep walking, so I did a portion of the portugese route in reverse. There I encountered people getting up at 430am with no sense that they were being thoughtless towards those who were trying to sleep. That frustration was not usually experienced on the VdlP. Those on the VdlP were thoughtfull, caring and experienced pilgrims, which I really appreciated.
I was poorly prepared this time so I did the early stages gently and I got Camino fit before long. I had no real problem with my feet or my body.
In a word, this was an amazing route; I loved it and I hope to do it again.
I also want to thank the many friends who contributed to a great experience; you were marvelous. I especially want to thank Patrick, Gerta(?), Henrick, Ann and my sister (from another lifetime) Helen!
If you get a chance, do not be anxious about stepping out on this route!
Buen Camino
Slow Walking Stevie Wonder

 

[LTfit]

Congratulations @hailows ! The Plata/Sanabrés is a wonderful route isn't it? I have done it twice and no doubt will do it again (but first a few other one to do).
Thanks for checking back in to report your experience.

 

[Helen Mannersjö]

Well, I made it! After being anxious before I left, the walk was wonderful and free of significant problems. I met a lot of wonderful people and saw some amazing country.
Yes, the VdlP is a little more difficult in places but it has the benefit of being relatively free of that feeling of a bed-race. After getting to Santiago I felt the need to keep walking, so I did a portion of the portugese route in reverse. There I encountered people getting up at 430am with no sense that they were being thoughtless towards those who were trying to sleep. That frustration was not usually experienced on the VdlP. Those on the VdlP were thoughtfull, caring and experienced pilgrims, which I really appreciated.
I was poorly prepared this time so I did the early stages gently and I got Camino fit before long. I had no real problem with my feet or my body.
In a word, this was an amazing route; I loved it and I hope to do it again.
I also want to thank the many friends who contributed to a great experience; you were marvelous. I especially want to thank Patrick, Gerta(?), Henrick, Ann and my sister (from another lifetime) Helen!
If you get a chance, do not be anxious about stepping out on this route!
Buen Camino
Slow Walking Stevie Wonder

Nice to see that you are safe back home brother ;-)

 

[rubyslippers]

Hallows, just reread this entire thread. Time flies, right? You sure know how to make good use of it. Kudos and welcome back.

 

[domigee]

Delighted you had a wonderful Camino Hallows and thanks for reporting back. I had to laugh re-reading the thread as it's my turn to have jitters, and how! "Can I do this, am I fit enough....?" bla bla....EEK
I have walked over 6000 km those last 3 years and yet.... I'm still getting 'stage fright'. I guess it's a good thing. Every Camino is a new beginning.
Thought of your next venture yet?

 

[when night falls]

Interesting thread... I have made plans for Camino Frances in August. But this has stirred my curiosity and I am thinking that Via de la Plata might be the one for me.

 

[backiej]

I walked the Camino Frances in 2013. I had no problems with blisters or other injuries. When initially asked "how was it?" I responded by saying "it was a long fricking walk"! I loved it... yet I didn't. A funny thing happened though, after a very short time, I realized that I desperately missed the camino. So, after a year and a half, I booked a flight that will get me to Seville on March 25th, 2015. I want to walk another Camino; my soul yearns for it; I am dreaming about it already.
Now, though, I am starting to worry about whether or not I will be able to do it; whether I am strong enough! Is that normal? I will do the training... but do other "successful" pilgrims doubt their abilities? Just wondering!

I love reading on this forum and value the many contributions.

Slow Walking Stevie Wonder

You may have finished the Camino by now because I've only just seen your post. But hey, I hope you made it. Please let us know.

 

[jennyb]

I love all these comments and totally empathize with them. I am about to embark on my second Camino. VDLP from Seville on 3 September and I am so looking forward to meeting pilgrims along the way. I walked the Camino Frances in May 2012. When I read your comments, HAILOWS, this is EXACTLY how I feel!!!

 

[hailows]

For those thinking of the VdlP, here is a link to a video blog... some posts are interesting, some are really boring and some have problems with technology; my apologies in advance! If it helps... here you go: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCn3O_a39Lc4fROcnEAGMG3A
SWSW
What a great trip!

 

[hailows]

Jenny, go and have a blast! Anxiety is normal, I guess! It will be wonderful, awful and you likely will want to do it again... someday!
SWSW

 

[Helen Mannersjö]

I have now looked at some of the videos Great days.. We have decided to start walking the same time next year. It will be the North route but I am not sure how we will do in the end. Primitivo or not ? Are you and Georgina comin ?

Helen