New Member; Early planning nervousness

[MicA]

Hello --
I've already sorted out my travel plans to St Jean and plan to start the Camino Frances around Sept 10th (give or take a few days). I'm a bit nervous, since I had no intentions of the Camino until about 2 weeks ago. It seems some folks plan for years. My travel arrangements are for almost 10 weeks in Spain, starting with the Camino (this provides plenty of time and not feel rushed). I won't have a ton of time to read/research before hand and will end up spending the summer concerned that that I won't be prepared enough. I fully expect that once I start and I'm a few day's into this journey; all of my concerns will be gone and I'll take each day as it comes. Gear; training; I'm not concerned with due to my backpacking experience. I'm very interested in experiencing Spain. The one thing I'm definitely doing is taking a Spanish class before leaving. I've been reading the forums, which are a wonderful resource!

 

[jpflavin1]

It is normal to be apprehensive about the unknown. I walked the Camino Frances this Spring. Pack light, start slow and the Camino will take care of everything else. I followed the Brierly guide and the information is very accurate. That being said, try to remain open to change along the way. You have a lot of time so let the Camino be your guide not a schedule. Feel free to PM me if I can be of further assistance.

Ultreya,
Joe

 

[newfydog]

You have some backpacking experience, enough time, and will have a bit of Spanish.....you have absolutely nothing to worry about. Follow the yellow arrows, and have fun.

Our first trip we were mt. biking around and thought we'd follow the trail for a few days. We had no idea where it went other than it ended in Santiago. 5,000 km later, we're still doing it, more prepared just because we are interested in the routes, but the first spur of the moment trip is as good as it gets.

 

[Deleted member 3000]

There is a lot in your backpacking experience that you should ignore. Read the threads on the equipment you should take. In backpacking, you think a bit about "creature comforts," which are already in place along the Camino. Take just the essentials, and no duplicates of "I might need" items. You will pass stores each day where you can acquire anything that you need. You will not be in wilderness, and all the cups, plates, beds, chairs, etc. will be provided (if you bring a little money).

I found that the Camino Frances is a walk among pilgrims even though it is in Spain. If you expect more of Spain than the scenery, then you may have to work at it a bit. Most of the readily available interaction is with pilgrims, and it is great. In the background, there are plenty of Spanish, and they are very accommodating and friendly. You will need some decent Spanish skills to get more than a smile and rudimentary directions.

Have fun, and expect a physical challenge (Johnnyman seems to have listened exclusively to the enthusiasm, and missed the hard part).