Introducing Smiller

[Smiller]

Hi, I am a potential pilgrim. I am 38 and work as a Galleries & Museums Administrator in East Sussex, England. Have come to a sudden and completely unexpected cross roads, don't know which way to go and need to time to think. So, am thinking about doing the Camino Francés in August/September 2006, from St Jean Pied de Port, or if I am brave enough Le Puy. Will probably be doing it on my own, the thought of which is absolutely terrifying - never done anything like it before, am typical Brit and don't speak any other languages blah, blah, blah - but exciting at the same time!
Smiller

 

[sillydoll]

Smiller

Hi terrified pilgrim!
To get a real feel for the Santiago pilgrimage, pay a visit to Mr Clark, curator of the medieval gallery at the London Museum. I spent some time with him in 2004 when he showed me trays of Santiago souvenirs found over the centuries - mainly in the river Thames. Then there is a beautiful, bejewelled Christian cross reliquary with a secret comparment that houses a tiny fragment of wood embedded in wax - puported to be a piece of the "True Cross". Reminders of the relics that millions of pilgrims braved life and limb to see.
If you are only going in September, learn a few words of Spanish before you go. It'll be worth it.
Strength to you Smiller!

 

[ivar]

Welcome to the forum Smiller,

It sounds like el Camino Frances is just what you are looking for.

I think there are many out there (and on this forum as well) that are planning to do it by them selves, and that are a bit scared. Maybe it is even better to go alone; I think it is easier to connect with other pilgrims/locals if you are on your own.

Regarding the language, it should not be a problem. An open mind, a smile and maybe a small dictionary and you are off to a great experience!

I hope you find some inspiration in the messages on this forum.

Welcome to Santiago,
Ivar