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Safety for young women travelling alone

elaras

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I'm sure this question has been asked countless times, but most of the threads I can find on solo female travelers are significantly older than myself - so some of the advice I feel doesn't cover my concerns/doesn't apply to me.
Basically, I'm 18 years old (will be turning 19 during travelling) and about to start uni in October studying Spanish post A Level. During the summer I want to maintain my Spanish, and have wanted to do the camino for a long time. Growing up walking has played a large part in my life, and I've done quite a few long distance hikes (including camping etc) in the UK - though none for as long as I'm planning this time.
However, due to my age and the fact I'd be alone (and female) I'm worried about safety concerns. Does anyone have any advice on how to stay safe? Or any experiences they can share?
 
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I'm sure this question has been asked countless times, but most of the threads I can find on solo female travelers are significantly older than myself - so some of the advice I feel doesn't cover my concerns/doesn't apply to me.
Not quite sure why being older than you would change anything about the safety factor for the older women on this forum. Or perhaps I am missing something. If anything, you can run faster that the older ladies and are therefor safer than they are.
 
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Having reached that "invisible" age, but remembering a life before, I do understand the OP's question. I can only say that I would totally support my young granddaughters if they were to embark upon a solo Frances. I can't address any of the other routes because my only experience is on the Frances. Of course normal safety precautions have to be considered, but the fact that you are asking the question rather than jumping in with an "I can handle anything" attitude speaks to your awareness of those precautions.
 
Having reached that "invisible" age, .
Cher99840 (is that like 90210? ;0) ) I keep hearing that 40 is the new 20 (plus wisdom and experience), that 60 is the new 40 (plus wisdom and experience) etc. Violence against women has nothing to do with lust, it only has to do with lack of respect for a fellow human being. Anyone willing to hurt an 18 year old on the Camino will be perverted enough to go after a 30, 50 or 70 year old.

On the CF there has only been one spot where I shook my head, but I have to say I had also been stupid enough to walk in the darkness of the early morning. I can't recall where it was, but it was a 10 meter stretch where, in their wisdom to get people off the road as much as possible, authorities put arrows that sent you 2 meters to the side of the road, on a path, but about 1.5 meters below the road level only to pop up after 30 seconds. Anyone could have been hiding in there.
 
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Also being of the invisible age, I find that unwanted interest and even harassment is much reduced in my life now, even if real risk of violence may be no different. That said, I completely agree that I'd be happy for my daughters (or granddaughters if I had any) to walk the Camino. Safer than most places they might travel. And there are so many respectful pilgrims who will watch out for you!
 
I'm sure this question has been asked countless times, but most of the threads I can find on solo female travelers are significantly older than myself - so some of the advice I feel doesn't cover my concerns/doesn't apply to me.
Basically, I'm 18 years old (will be turning 19 during travelling) and about to start uni in October studying Spanish post A Level. During the summer I want to maintain my Spanish, and have wanted to do the camino for a long time. Growing up walking has played a large part in my life, and I've done quite a few long distance hikes (including camping etc) in the UK - though none for as long as I'm planning this time.
However, due to my age and the fact I'd be alone (and female) I'm worried about safety concerns. Does anyone have any advice on how to stay safe? Or any experiences they can share?

you'll be fine, just use your common sense, as mentioned above. that said, the vast majority of assaults on the Camino (and there are only a handful every year) usually take place in towns and cities, usually by other pilgrims and tend to involve alcohol and socialising. this does not mean that pilgrims, even male ones, are dangerous - 99.99999% are interesting and beautiful people who will most likely make your Camino memorable. in any case, several people i know, young women in this case, were also correctly a bit apprehensive before doing their Caminos and as a male i think is is unfair for me to downplay these concerns (no intention of starting a gender debate). so for your peace of mind and in my opinon: in summer you will most likely never be completely alone (always a friendly face/s ahead of you or behind you), there will be lots of other women (and friendly men) walking nearby, the locals are friendly (and grumpy at times), and there are virtually no assaults on the Camino.

Good luck and Buen Camino!
 
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Nobody can ever guarentee a woman traveling alone TOTAL safety (that is the sad reality). But if I had a 18 year old daughter I'd rather her be walking the camino than walking down most american streets at midday. It's really pretty safe.
 
Also being of the invisible age, I find that unwanted interest and even harassment is much reduced in my life now, even if real risk of violence may be no different. That said, I completely agree that I'd be happy for my daughters (or granddaughters if I had any) to walk the Camino. Safer than most places they might travel. And there are so many respectful pilgrims who will watch out for you!
it seems that i am missing something here: Pray, to tell: what's 'the invisible age'?
 
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I'm sure this question has been asked countless times, but most of the threads I can find on solo female travelers are significantly older than myself - so some of the advice I feel doesn't cover my concerns/doesn't apply to me.
Basically, I'm 18 years old (will be turning 19 during travelling) and about to start uni in October studying Spanish post A Level. During the summer I want to maintain my Spanish, and have wanted to do the camino for a long time. Growing up walking has played a large part in my life, and I've done quite a few long distance hikes (including camping etc) in the UK - though none for as long as I'm planning this time.
However, due to my age and the fact I'd be alone (and female) I'm worried about safety concerns. Does anyone have any advice on how to stay safe? Or any experiences they can share?
Having travelled alone in Europe (age 16 and upwards) and on the camino, I'd say it's as safe/unsafe as all other places i've travelled worldwide.
(Morons have no monopoly on any specific locations, they can be found anywhere. Last I encountered was one of those despicable 'exposers' (forgot exact english term) in the woods about 4-5km prior to SdC. Shortly afterwards I managed to flag down a few coppers in their patrol car, and gave description of male/ location. But truly, those creatures are equal opportunity offenders and afflict women of all ages around the globe, sigh :-(
Advise on how to stay safe?
Aquire/Use common sense.... and proceed with confidence. And use more common sense :)
If you can, drop the worry-load....develop common sense instead. and ask for help if you feel you'd like company to walk a certain stretch of road.
Buen Camino -
 
thank you for filling an 'awareness gap'.
how most curious this is. never heard of it. perhaps it's a northern american culture 'thing'? will inquire w/ girlfriends across the globe if that's an 'issue, noted or a concern' in their countries/cultures.
am not saying it does not exist, just because i have not encountered this. but then again, i am 180 cm tall (6') and i wonder how this is going to look like - being invisible or becoming invisible just because the body is naturally ageing but still remaining the same height... - Invisible age ... what a concept?! going to observe how others try to ignore just because i am not 45 any more. ---- sorry, i know it's off-topic ... but i had to ask. thanks for so promptly clue-ing me in :)
cheers -
 
thank you for filling an 'awareness gap'.
how most curious this is. never heard of it. perhaps it's a northern american culture 'thing'? will inquire w/ girlfriends across the globe if that's an 'issue, noted or a concern' in their countries/cultures.
am not saying it does not exist, just because i have not encountered this. but then again, i am 180 cm tall (6') and i wonder how this is going to look like - being invisible or becoming invisible just because the body is naturally ageing but still remaining the same height... - Invisible age ... what a concept?! going to observe how others try to ignore just because i am not 45 any more. ---- sorry, i know it's off-topic ... but i had to ask. thanks for so promptly clue-ing me in :)
cheers -
I'm 57. I used to highlight my hair and stopped doings so in 2012 because my hair dresser told me that it was getting too obvious and I either needed to let it grow out or dye it. Unwilling to dye it, I let it grow out. Within a year I was completely grey. After 2 years experiencing invisibility first hand, I highlighted my bangs bright pink last summer! It did the trick -- my students think I"m hip (or at least trying to be) and I never feel invisible. Maybe I've gone to far the other way :oops: but I'm having fun with it. :D Liz
 
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I'm 57. I used to highlight my hair and stopped doings so in 2012 because my hair dresser told me that it was getting too obvious and I either needed to let it grow out or dye it. Unwilling to dye it, I let it grow out. Within a year I was completely grey. After 2 years experiencing invisibility first hand, I highlighted my bangs bright pink last summer! It did the trick -- my students think I"m hip (or at least trying to be) and I never feel invisible. Maybe I've gone to far the other way :oops: but I'm having fun with it. :D Liz
sounds like a brilliant idea ... and fun! impossible to be invisible when one is playful :) thanks much for sharing - your idea might start setting a trend of the tribe of the neon-bangs ;)... cheers and very best wishes, c
 
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it seems that i am missing something here: Pray, to tell: what's 'the invisible age'?

For me it is the age when I/you, finally, thankfully, don't be any more desirable as a woman just because you look like a fertile woman. I do like being older, note my hair is much greyer / whiter as it shows in my avatar. It has so much advantages to be a certain age and I rejoice every day in that, SY
 
I'm with SYates on this. I feel liberated to enjoy my travels more now than I did as a young woman, when the mating imperative was always lurking. I don't colour my bangs (but good idea). However I love to surprise people by not being too typical.

Now if I could just stop further deterioration... That is what brings this back onto the camino subject - walking is so healthy!

Maybe we can add a member category on the forum- "Invisible"

P.S. I realize that we've gone off topic and maybe we're not providing the support the young OP asked for! We all encourage to to enjoy her youth, and not be afraid of either the camino or growing older!
 
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I'm 57. y. I highlighted my bangs bright pink last summer! . :D Liz

sounds like a brilliant idea - your idea might start setting a trend of the tribe of the neon-bangs ;) c

Now "am I missing something" what are " bangs" ? What can older men do to make themselves visible, I keep having near misses with people walking towards me looking at their mobile phones they never see me until the very last minute when I have stopped!!!;) Would "bangs" make me more visible, interesting I don't have this problem ever on Camino:)
 
Now "am I missing something" what are " bangs" ? What can older men do to make themselves visible, I keep having near misses with people walking towards me looking at their mobile phones they never see me until the very last minute when I have stopped!!!;) Would "bangs" make me more visible, interesting I don't have this problem ever on Camino:)
ah - thanks for asking - i keep forgetting my brit english. rest assured, has nothing to do w/ sausages (bangers) - i suppose you'd call it 'fringes' ? haircut above forehead? - i remember using the word here 'cut the fringes please' - and i only got blank looks from the hair stylist. heaven knows what they might have thought. - which, incidentially, reminds me of those old TV happening of the 'fringes' that morphed into monty phyton. oohps - off topic again :-/
sorryyyyy.
PS: to the question of male pilgrims being more visible on the camino... hm...in absence of neon bangs/fringes... perhaps paint forehead in neon-colours? --- no? sorry, getting carried away :confused::eek:
 
I'm with SYates on this. I feel liberated to enjoy my travels more now than I did as a young woman, when the mating imperative was always lurking. I don't colour my bangs (but good idea). However I love to surprise people by not being too typical.

Now if I could just stop further deterioration... That is what brings this back onto the camino subject - walking is so healthy!

Maybe we can add a member category on the forum- "Invisible"

P.S. I realize that we've gone off topic and maybe we're not providing the support the young OP asked for! We all encourage to to enjoy her youth, and not be afraid of either the camino or growing older!
Double-LIKE on that one :)
 
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To try to get back on track, I think the fact that many of us (of a certain age) feel more liberated now is why the young OP wanted to hear from or about females in her own age bracket. The only message that I had to offer her was that I would consider the CF safe for my grand daughters. I hope that my choice of words ("invisible age") didn't detract too much from her query.
 
I was also of an 'invisible' age when I walked (somebody kindly names it being of a 'certain age') and even though I would never be able to outrun anyone, I never once did not feel totally secure.

On a more practical note, you might consider to attach a whistle to the front shoulder straps of your backpack. A shrill whistle blow would most likely deter any 'amorous' attention in the very unlikely event that you will encounter such a one.

Buen camino, Annelise
 
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Now "am I missing something" what are " bangs" ? What can older men do to make themselves visible, I keep having near misses with people walking towards me looking at their mobile phones they never see me until the very last minute when I have stopped!!!;) Would "bangs" make me more visible, interesting I don't have this problem ever on Camino:)
These are my "bangs"! They were purple in the pic. I change them around. They are magenta now. Nothing too radical! But I agree with all the sentiments about safety and age. I agree with everyone who has emphasized how safe the Camino is. My daughter walked as a 20 year old in 2009. I was fine with it then and I would be now. But the unfortunate bottom line is that any woman still in the sexually active age range needs to be more careful about unwanted attention from men. On the Camino, and anywhere. I don't think the Camino is any different that most other places you could find yourself. So Elaras, if you have followed this entire digression, I'll say once again -- go for it! Liz
10370453_10152323786418884_6331762638267636453_n.jpg
 
sounds like a brilliant idea ... and fun! impossible to be invisible when one is playful :) thanks much for sharing - your idea might start setting a trend of the tribe of the neon-bangs ;)... cheers and very best wishes, c

Amorfati (I love the name):
We men also become "invisible" at a certain point in life. It is rather pleasant in some ways; fewer suppositions and expectations are placed on you and one can just get busy enjoying being alive.
Roberto
 
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Amorfati (I love the name):
We men also become "invisible" at a certain point in life. It is rather pleasant in some ways; fewer suppositions and expectations are placed on you and one can just get busy enjoying being alive.
Roberto
yes -thank you - and that's what i thought: it would be pleasant even not to be noticed in the 'appeal' department and it would free one up to relate on another level entirely . ---- it's such a veryyy interesting topic - it might merit a thread on its own - to discuss and explore this topic.
 
I'm sure this question has been asked countless times, but most of the threads I can find on solo female travelers are significantly older than myself - so some of the advice I feel doesn't cover my concerns/doesn't apply to me.
Basically, I'm 18 years old (will be turning 19 during travelling) and about to start uni in October studying Spanish post A Level. During the summer I want to maintain my Spanish, and have wanted to do the camino for a long time. Growing up walking has played a large part in my life, and I've done quite a few long distance hikes (including camping etc) in the UK - though none for as long as I'm planning this time.
However, due to my age and the fact I'd be alone (and female) I'm worried about safety concerns. Does anyone have any advice on how to stay safe? Or any experiences they can share?


You will start the day in groups as every albergue in the towns all leave together between 5am[ God forbid] and 7.30am
You are now within a group of 20---200 people depending where you stayed.
Evening comes quickly for 3 reasons;
You are knackered,
Dinner early,
Lights out @ 10pm
You are now elaras going to do the same thing all over again for 35 days.

Well done on going now , just keep your wits about you and beware of the greeks [opps] bearing gifts.
You know all the dangers you passed getting to 18 ...........won't be any harder.
Buen camino.
 
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However, due to my age and the fact I'd be alone (and female) I'm worried about safety concerns.
Honestly, you have coded your concerns so it is not entirely clear what they are!:)

Will you be sexually assaulted in dormitories? Extremely unlikely. There is an aura of respect in the pilgrim community that makes that almost unthinkable.

Will men "hit" on me? Yes. All ages and all nationalities. There are many middle aged lotharios on the Camino who have been reminded of their life forty years earlier. Sometimes they forget that at that age, they were not attracted to someone thirty or forty years older. They will flirt constantly with young women. Most will be much more grandfatherly, but be wary of their motives as well! Spanish men in bars are hound dogs. Drink too much, and you may be at their mercy. It would be prudent to drink modestly, be polite, but be inviting only if you mean it. I met a Costa Rican girl who was followed for several days by a Spaniard she met in Burgos. Other pilgrims worked together to be a barrier against the unwanted attention.

How much privacy can I expect? Over half the shower and toilet facilities are mixed man/woman; individual stalls, but shared by both genders. There is privacy, but not a lot. The only private space for dressing and undressing may be in the toilet stall. Most pilgrims are quite respectful of privacy, but a gawker or an exhibitionist in the dormitory is not unknown.

Will I be robbed on the trail? It is very unlikely. There are reports of exhibitionists exposing themselves a few times a year. It is usually done to women, but I have been flashed as well!! You will be safer as a pilgrim than you would be as a tourist drinking in a Spanish city.

If you have a specific safety question, be sure to ask it! ;)
 
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How much privacy can I expect? Over half the shower and toilet facilities are mixed man/woman. There is privacy, but not a lot. The only private space for dressing and undressing may be in the toilet stall. Most pilgrims are quite respectful of privacy, but a gawker or an exhibitionist in the dormitory is not unknown.
This is news to me! I have never encountered a mixed showering facility in any of the albergues I used, either private or municipal. I know there are some, there as others have mentioned them from time to time, but over half !!!
 
This is news to me! I have never encountered a mixed showering facility in any of the albergues I used, either private or municipal. I know there are some, there as others have mentioned them from time to time, but over half !!!
I think we need to clarify what is meant here by 'mixed showering facility.' Personally, I think it means a showering area / bathroom for both men and women, with each person using an individual shower stall, with door. There is privacy in these shower stalls, limited perhaps somewhat by the next person waiting to use the shower. I encountered several of these facilities. If one is thinking that mixed showering facility means a communal room with several shower heads and zero privacy, that I never encountered, and I would not want to.
 
This is news to me! I have never encountered a mixed showering facility in any of the albergues I used, either private or municipal. I know there are some, there as others have mentioned them from time to time, but over half !!!
Sorry, @wayfarer, I've just re-read your post. I would say that all of the albergue dormitorios I stayed in, had mixed shower facilities, save for the albergue at San Juan de Ortega ........ and enough has been said about that one! I will stress tho' that I still have very fond memories of that ancient treasure. :)
 
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Sorry, @wayfarer, I've just re-read your post. I would say that all of the albergue dormitorios I stayed in, had mixed shower facilities, save for the albergue at San Juan de Ortega ........ and enough has been said about that one! I will stress tho' that I still have very fond memories of that ancient treasure. :)
It may have been just the way it worked out for me but all the places I stayed had separate facilities.
 
If one is thinking that mixed showering facility means a communal room with several shower heads and zero privacy, that I never encountered, and I would not want to.

Icacos, I have come across this in Pobena, on el Camino del Norte. The showers (2) are in a large room. The shower heads face eachother, one on each wall, and the only thing separating the bathers is a flimsy shower curtain.

Other degrees of 'lesser modesty' being offered:

In Logrono, in the large 4 storied albergue there were separate facilities for boys and girls, but with absolutely no room in the shower stalls to change or bring in your clothes while keeping them dry. So you would have to undress and dress in the room, but in front of women only.

In Estella, at the albergue in the Jakue albergue has modern corner showers with transparent plastic doors. Might as well not have those doors ;0)

But in my experience the coed bathrooms/shower rooms are all equiped with stalls that allow you to completely undress and dress in them, while keeping your clothese dry - often because of a little partition (Pamplona for example) or lots of space (Castro Urdiales - where it's basically a 5 x 12 room).

I grew up going to ballet classes when all the women, from 7 to 2o something changed in one large room, in plain view of eachother, and then in bording school where we had a wall with 4 showerhead and ridiculous shower curtains to separte us. After 2 or 3 days those showercurtains were rolled up on the rods, and after a month completely gone. The Camino is neither of these.
 
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These are my "bangs"! They were purple in the pic. I change them around. They are magenta now. Nothing too radical! But I agree with all the sentiments about safety and age. I agree with everyone who has emphasized how safe the Camino is. My daughter walked as a 20 year old in 2009. I was fine with it then and I would be now. But the unfortunate bottom line is that any woman still in the sexually active age range needs to be more careful about unwanted attention from men. On the Camino, and anywhere. I don't think the Camino is any different that most other places you could find yourself. So Elaras, if you have followed this entire digression, I'll say once again -- go for it! Liz
10370453_10152323786418884_6331762638267636453_n.jpg
I love your bangs!
 
I formed the opinion that new facilities were required by building codes to have separate shower/toilet facilities for men and women. I was the first customer of Don Quijote in Arzua, and stayed in the Ultreia its opening week a year or so later. Both had separate facilities unlike the municipals in Melide and Pedrouzo, which did not even have shower curtains in the joint use showers. A couple of years later I stayed in the new Los Caminantes II in Arzua, which had private, general use shower and toilet stalls. The governing xunta was the same for all three, so the build out was the choice of the owner, not a code requirement. My opinion was wrong. I think it is pretty random at the moment. The only shower room I have experienced was on the Camino de la Plata at Castro Dozon, four shower heads on one wall of a large room.
 
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Icacos, I have come across this in Pobena, on el Camino del Norte. The showers (2) are in a large room. The shower heads face eachother, one on each wall, and the only thing separating the bathers is a flimsy shower curtain.

Other degrees of 'lesser modesty' being offered:

In Logrono, in the large 4 storied albergue there were separate facilities for boys and girls, but with absolutely no room in the shower stalls to change or bring in your clothes while keeping them dry. So you would have to undress and dress in the room, but in front of women only.

In Estella, at the albergue in the Jakue albergue has modern corner showers with transparent plastic doors. Might as well not have those doors ;0)

But in my experience the coed bathrooms/shower rooms are all equiped with stalls that allow you to completely undress and dress in them, while keeping your clothese dry - often because of a little partition (Pamplona for example) or lots of space (Castro Urdiales - where it's basically a 5 x 12 room).

I grew up going to ballet classes when all the women, from 7 to 2o something changed in one large room, in plain view of eachother, and then in bording school where we had a wall with 4 showerhead and ridiculous shower curtains to separte us. After 2 or 3 days those showercurtains were rolled up on the rods, and after a month completely gone. The Camino is neither of these.

I've showered in places without curtains, let alone a door. The first time is hard. You think everyone is looking, but they aren't. Swallow hard and shuck your clothes. My policy on looking is not to look above the calf. I've seen some great tats on the lower legs.

I think we Americans are the worst about nudity. Be aware most of the rest of the world hasn't grown up with our hangups.

The first time I traveled outside the States, I worried the traffic lights would be different and I wouldn't know when to cross. When I returned someone ask me if they were different. I couldn't even remember! I had crossed many streets and hadn't noticed.

Most of our fears are just that, and they evaporate quickly once we arrive at our destination.

I've traveled extensively on my own and only once was I a little concerned. I disappeared into a crowd of school kids. If your intuition signals a warning, look around you for safe options. You'll be fine and have great stories to tell.
 
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Whoa, people are making this confusing by talking about/defending group showers in the same conversation as mixed gender showers. Let me state for the record that I have never heard of a communal/open shower with both genders, and I highly doubt you would run into one on the camino.

I am a swimmer and I've taken wide open showers with women my entire life. It isn't a big deal, and it is even less of a big deal for Europeans. One could actually argue that if we were more comfortable around others of the same gender, we wouldn't have as many self esteem issues. This article, that i had to read in college, written by a high school student, is pretty compelling http://www.utne.com/community/bathing-beauties.aspx#axzz3PwLDEhqw I'd also argue that I almost prefer a lack of door/curtain, because that fosters mold and I get claustrophobic in tight spaces that feel dirty. I'd just as soon shower in the open and feel clean.

But while Maya and Amenos seem to be making that argument let me be clear that I think the vast majority of people would be horrified at the idea of not having a lot of privacy if the showers were mixed gender. This was a fear I had before the camino, and I was relieved to find that all of the showers that mixed gender were perfectly private stalls. I occasionally ran into a shower with only a flimsy curtain or no curtain (again, this doesn't bother me) but always in a women's only shower. Let's not confuse/worry people into thinking they'll be sudsing up man and woman next to each other!
 
I'd also like to add that the camino would be entirely safe for a woman to walk alone. And if you are 18 or older go for it. Don't worry about your parents (other than to assure them you are safe and direct them here). The worst thing that happened to my generation was helicopter parents.
 
The Dr is IN:Gosh, where to start. Elaras...being young is a good thing. By deciding that the Camino is something you want to do is a good thing. Asking the right questions is the smart thing. "Gender" is all about one's characteristics... pertaining to, and differentiating between, masculinity and femininity.
"Sex" refers to the biological and physiological characteristics that define men and women.
Both males and females are initially attracted to another, of either sex, by that person's characteristics: long hair, short hair (colored at the tips), tall, short, ruddy complexion, fair of skin, etc. In a subjective sense, the initial attraction may not play out much past the first spoken word, one's location (up wind/down wind) or obvious indicators of non interest. If the objective is sex and the gender specific characteristics are met and shared, union may now be possible.
Just the fact one is both female and young...does not guarantee attraction. Male and old also does not indicate disinterest.
The Camino is a great equalizer: pilgrims, for the most part, are closely aligned by a sense of purpose and commitment to a similar goal. You will become a part of a family of like minded pilgrims and, as with many a family, you are sure to be watched after and, if needs be, protected. How you comport yourself is the key.
Moral of the story: If you should come across a flasher start laughing at the display of his shortcomings both mentally and physically;). Then just move on.
Buen Camino,
Arn
 
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thinking they'll be sudsing up man and woman next to each other!
But they will be sudsing up separated by the shower partitions. It is equally likely in many places to be followed by a man or woman (or 54/46% ratio of pilgrims) when finishing a shower. The proportion will be the same in the stalls next to the one you use. You will be horrified if you expect a lot of privacy! That is just not the case. There is enough for modesty, not "a lot".:)
 
We have no idea what Camino the OP is talking about. She posted Thursday, it is now Monday yet no acknowledgement of any replies. She is in high school (yet, forgive me - looks 12). No idea of whether she has banking experience, parental support, funds or any solo experiences with mass transit. I think the absence of acknowledgement after posting speaks volumes. IMHO
 
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We have no idea what Camino the OP is talking about. She posted Thursday, it is now Monday yet no acknowledgement of any replies. She is in high school (yet, forgive me - looks 12). No idea of whether she has banking experience, parental support, funds or any solo experiences with mass transit. I think the absence of acknowledgement after posting speaks volumes. IMHO
I don't think she looks 12, and if she does look younger than she is that shouldn't define her---its probably something she already has to deal with too much as it is (people underestimating her because she looks younger than she is). I try not to judge by age in general (I had camino friends my junior and camino friends 55 years my senior), but if one must, at least judge by age not appearance.

As for banking experience, what better way to get it than real world experience. If she doesn't have the finances, then she won't be able to go. Being allowed to fail is as important of a lesson as being allowed to succeed. If she doesn't have parental support, so be it---might make it all the better for her to go.

Meanwhile, she only asked this on Thursday. I wouldn't start assuming things I can't know about her until Tuesday or Wednesday at the earliest ;)
 
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Re original question: I second Falcon. A young woman on the Camino, just as anywhere, is more likely to be subjected to a lot of annoying attention, and it is worth taking precautions against that, as it could be a source of frequent annoyance and stress. But I don't think she'll be in any greater danger than anyone else.
Re invisibility: I would like to call it the "visible" age, where we are finally seen as people, not as objects.
Great thread!
 
Elaras read posts through Thursday evening, by which time she probably felt she had an answer to her question or was not interested in the sharp turn the thread had taken!;)

Visible/not visible is a bit arcane for 18 years old.
 
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We have no idea what Camino the OP is talking about. She posted Thursday, it is now Monday yet no acknowledgement of any replies. She is in high school (yet, forgive me - looks 12). No idea of whether she has banking experience, parental support, funds or any solo experiences with mass transit. I think the absence of acknowledgement after posting speaks volumes. IMHO

Being a bit hard on her mate especially if she only looks 12 , which i doubt.
I think she has to be congratulated for even writing on the forum whether 12 or 18 years.
She will be attending alberques thus her concern.
As we have aged gracefully the accommodation we use has improved since our first camino in 07/08 where we actually lost a few camino badges off our bunks
And on our third day in Pamplona met a lovely young couple who stayed the previous night in Cizur Menor , whilst asleep some "underdone" pilgrim decided her Keen's were in better shape than their own . She never begrudged the loss if someone needed them just the new shoes she was waiting to buy would cause her untold problems.
I hope Elaras makes it as it will change her life and the earlier the better.
Travel is the best university in the world and common sense the hardest degree.
 
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So true, but we had fun with it.
It certainly changed the focus of the thread from her anxieties to others' anxieties!;)

The fun part may be in the eyes of the beholder; when Elaras returns and reads the slams about her, we will know how much fun she is having. Before that happens, if it does, Members may want to review their posts for rudeness, and make some edits. Just a suggestion.:(
 
The one from Galicia (the round) and the one from Castilla & Leon. Individually numbered and made by the same people that make the ones you see on your walk.
Whoa, people are making this confusing by talking about/defending group showers in the same conversation as mixed gender showers. Let me state for the record that I have never heard of a communal/open shower with both genders, and I highly doubt you would run into one on the camino.

I am a swimmer and I've taken wide open showers with women my entire life. It isn't a big deal, and it is even less of a big deal for Europeans. One could actually argue that if we were more comfortable around others of the same gender, we wouldn't have as many self esteem issues. This article, that i had to read in college, written by a high school student, is pretty compelling http://www.utne.com/community/bathing-beauties.aspx#axzz3PwLDEhqw I'd also argue that I almost prefer a lack of door/curtain, because that fosters mold and I get claustrophobic in tight spaces that feel dirty. I'd just as soon shower in the open and feel clean.

But while Maya and Amenos seem to be making that argument let me be clear that I think the vast majority of people would be horrified at the idea of not having a lot of privacy if the showers were mixed gender. This was a fear I had before the camino, and I was relieved to find that all of the showers that mixed gender were perfectly private stalls. I occasionally ran into a shower with only a flimsy curtain or no curtain (again, this doesn't bother me) but always in a women's only shower. Let's not confuse/worry people into thinking they'll be sudsing up man and woman next to each other!

I said nothing about mixed gender showers. I was only speaking of women's shower rooms. But I have had to use mixed gender toilets with holes in the floor. No doors or curtains. It wasn't bothering anyone else so I proceeded with my business.
 
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First of all I do hope the OP gets in touch.
Secondly...reading all other posts : I myself was so tired at the end of my walk I hardly noticed what was happening around me. I was too concentrated on showering quickly, not running out of hot water and at same time leave some hot water for the next one. And concentrating on keeping my feet clean in my Crocs ;)
And pilgrims are no predators ( working with sexual delinquents I can guarantee you this! )
 
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Elaras, to return to the topic - you will be as safe as a woman anywhere else. So proceed with optimism and energy - but you can buy cans of mace in Spanish/French knife shops! When I started travelling as a teenager my father advised me to have a pot of pepper in my pocket at all times (as well as training me in unarmed combat!) and in all the hitch-hiking and unwise ramblings I only had to use it once - but I was so glad I had it...
 
But while Maya and Amenos seem to be making that argument let me be clear that I think the vast majority of people would be horrified at the idea of not having a lot of privacy if the showers were mixed gender. This was a fear I had before the camino, and I was relieved to find that all of the showers that mixed gender were perfectly private stalls. I occasionally ran into a shower with only a flimsy curtain or no curtain (again, this doesn't bother me) but always in a women's only shower. Let's not confuse/worry people into thinking they'll be sudsing up man and woman next to each other!
So glad to see Maya pipping up about what she said and did not say. Because Anemone (not Amenos) did not advocate for free bathing, but listed places that came as close to it as possible, weather it was men and women or women alone. I did clearly say that no places like boarding school and ballet class situations would not be found on the Camino - mind you, except Logrono.
 
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Invisible age?? You are as "invisible" as you feel.

I feel anything but invisible, nor would i ever want to feel like that.
 
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Pepper Spray, Capsaicin, can be carried lawfully in Spain for use as a self-defence aid. Generally available from Ferretria at around €20. And almost totally useless unless your are trained in / have practiced their use and are prepared to use it immediately and effectively by temporarily blinding your assailant, or the bloke who was going to ask you for directions / help you with your pack / apologise for bumping in to you. And if you don't use it immediately and effectively you may find yourself temporarily blinded.

Normal precautions prevail.
 
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I actually feel very sad that someone feels the need to carry a pepper spray on a Camino. Call me naive but I do think that most people have a good nature.
The only time I felt unsafe on a walk was when I had to cross a road full of fast driving vehicles. No pepper spray could have helped me out there.
 
Note to pilgrims: If you are carrying pepper spray or Mace, do not bring it into my home, or any place where I am hospitalera.
I think weapons are a terrible idea on a path dedicated to peace and kindness and communication.
It's bad enough there are occasional "flashers" and creeps. Carrying dangerous chemicals just adds to the ugliness... and the risk of decent people being hurt.
 
Or innocent dogs also! I heard, on another forum, of people carrying it as 'defence against the dangerous Spanish dogs'! SY
 
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I too carry pepper spray.

You carried pepper spray on the CAMINO in 2011 ????????????????????? and where did you live then ????????
I realise you now live in the USA and please don't take this the wrong way
**Leave the States @ the airport....
You should have realised by your previous walk [ Have no idea how far] that carrying that crap was not required.

Thousands of women walking from France etc , ALL over 60 years and many approaching the" late" 70's carrying nothing but aspirations and memories.

Elaras, to return to the topic - you will be as safe as a woman anywhere else. So proceed with optimism and energy - but you can buy cans of mace in Spanish/French knife shops! When I started travelling as a teenager my father advised me to have a pot of pepper in my pocket at all times (as well as training me in unarmed combat!) and in all the hitch-hiking and unwise ramblings I only had to use it once - but I was so glad I had it...

Your dad was on the wrong tract Hectate,
My kids were TOLD never to hitch-hike ..and they NEVER did.. It was unfortunate as in the 60-70's thats all we did and especially around Australia,
**which happens to be the same size as the USA.
Can you imagine back then the States having only 10 million people for all that area [ Australias population] instead of the 200-300 million.
Its now a very dangerous past time , especially for girls anywhere in the world.

Elaras asked general advice as a young girl and about safety on the camino .
She already reached 17 years living in the UK , surely she has received advice on the pitfalls of being young.

We should advise her on how 200,674 people each year walk the CAMINO and forget about the 10 people who carry crap thinking they are back in the suburbs in which they reside.
 
I did NOT carry pepper spray on the Camino. But I carry it in the States. I refuse to carry a gun; they are the problem, not the answer. But the U.S. has 4 of the most violent cities in the world. Pepper spray is made from hot chiles and the reason for its use is that it is temporary and gives you a chance to get away. And yes, I'm trained in its use and physical self-defencse. As someone who has survived a violent attack, I will do what I can to protect myself from another. I NEVER felt a need to carry it anywhere in Europe. But, some 35,000! people are killed in the States every year with firearms. There is a reason to be careful, the gun culture is so strong.

Please, stop putting words in my mouth. I didn't say I carried it on the Camino.

I was living in France at the time I walked. I have dual citizenship.
 
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I did NOT carry pepper spray on the Camino. But I carry it in the States. I refuse to carry a gun; they are the problem, not the answer. But the U.S. has 4 of the most violent cities in the world. Pepper spray is made from hot chiles and the reason for its use is that it is temporary and gives you a chance to get away. And yes, I'm trained in its use and physical self-defencse. As someone who has survived a violent attack, I will do what I can to protect myself from another. I NEVER felt a need to carry it anywhere in Europe. But, some 35,000! people are killed in the States every year with firearms. There is a reason to be careful, the gun culture is so strong.

Please, stop putting words in my mouth. I didn't say I carried it on the Camino.

I was living in France at the time I walked. I have dual citizenship.


Sorry if i offended you Maya2 but this site is about the Camino and assistance in walking it safely was the original question.
What happens in the States stays in the States when we answer questions from a young girl who actually lives in europe.
PS In Australia guns are banned unless you are a farmer [for sick stock], members of shooting clubs or a criminal.
No others are allowed guns since a tragedy in Tasmania nearly 20 years ago.
 
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Hi I just want to say you are wise to check it out I know I have had to learn to watch my back all my life it is not fun but if your one of those women who seem to draw attention it can be frightening I am going this year for the first time too and I am 68 full of arthritis and so I guess I am suppose to be one of those invisible women but ...I am still concerned as I know how it feels to be a victim My oldest son has offered to come with me and my suggestion to you is try to get a walking partner and always trust your gut when things don't look right as usually your gut feeling will tell you of trouble before it happens; also I think the cities may be a problem more than the Camino its self from a grandma who hasn't traveled much at all and never like this, I learned from just walking across the road at home that it is always good to err on the side of concision... but not so much that you deny your self the freedom of living your life to the full some times we just have to take a chance and trust that God will send his angels to watch over us
 
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Wow don't folk get riled easily...! Personal protection wherever you are or travel is a personal decision. The sad fact is that you may be attacked as some people target women when alone - precisely because they may feel the woman is at a disadvantage. Most of the women I know have not been attacked by strangers - but quite a few have. Personally I would feel better (and have!) being able to defend myself in some way. If you do not want to do that - don't - it is a personal choice. Do not think that because the Camino is a Christian/sacred/religious route that it is immune to weirdoes!! To those that think you have to live in suburbs to carry pepper spray or anything else - wrong!!! I live in a very rural area - but some weird git still tried to pull a girl into his car in our road. Evil can be anywhere - but so can kindness, tolerance and compassion, so we each walk how we feel comfortable - can we not just agree to differ.....!
 
Is anyone else reading this thread while keeping up with the thread about the woman who was robbed at gun point? Random parallel, anomalous misfortune, or is there some significance?
 
Is anyone else reading this thread while keeping up with the thread about the woman who was robbed at gun point? Random parallel, anomalous misfortune, or is there some significance?
Yes, and I am keeping a sense of proportion. In a decade of caminos, this is the first armed robbery I have heard of. There may have been others, but the number is low. As a single data point for a prospective pilgrim, it may not be too useful. In those ten years tens of thousands have been robbed at gunpoint in cities (perhaps most in the U.S.). I still get the sense from the original post that the question was about general safety and sexual harassment. Almost everyone is aware of the general dangers of life.

Elaras has returned once to read posts, and left without comment. She may know all she needs to know.:)
 
The focus is on reducing the risk of failure through being well prepared. 2nd ed.
I do! I don't think one isolated incidence (of which we don't know any details as I write this) makes a difference to general safety advice given in this thread. Just to put things in perspective: 230,000+pilgrims (of which ~40% were women) arrived in SdC last year and how many stories that went beyond the 'flasher scenario' do we actually have heard. As someone else said here in this thread (or was it elsewhere?) being hit by a car or truck when crossing a road might be a far bigger danger. Buen Camino! SY
 
Hey gurl I'm 23 turnig 24 on the journey :) I'm also a tad concerned about this but I start next week so I will let you know! I'm waking the camino portugese, so I'll email you when I'm finished..proud of you for doing it!
I'm sure this question has been asked countless times, but most of the threads I can find on solo female travelers are significantly older than myself - so some of the advice I feel doesn't cover my concerns/doesn't apply to me.
Basically, I'm 18 years old (will be turning 19 during travelling) and about to start uni in October studying Spanish post A Level. During the summer I want to maintain my Spanish, and have wanted to do the camino for a long time. Growing up walking has played a large part in my life, and I've done quite a few long distance hikes (including camping etc) in the UK - though none for as long as I'm planning this time.
However, due to my age and the fact I'd be alone (and female) I'm worried about safety concerns. Does anyone have any advice on how to stay safe? Or any experiences they can share?
 
Hey gurl I'm 23 turnig 24 on the journey :) I'm also a tad concerned about this but I start next week so I will let you know! I'm waking the camino portugese, so I'll email you when I'm finished..proud of you for doing it!
Buen Camino.
 
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This is news to me! I have never encountered a mixed showering facility in any of the albergues I used, either private or municipal. I know there are some, there as others have mentioned them from time to time, but over half !!!

Most bathrooms are mixed gender - how could you miss that? - The actual shower cubicles are singles but the bathrooms tend to be mixed gender.
 
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I think it depends also on the time of walking. During low season many albergues close one bathroom and provide only one for all genders. During high season everything is open and you do have gender-separated bathrooms. Buen Camino! SY
 
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I've walked in high season and have seen and used many mixed bathrooms. If i were to guess, i would say its 50/50, but its probably more then that for the mixed bathrooms.
 
@elaras , the OP, never posted again in this thread after her initial question. Either we frightened her off or she doesn't care about our answers/opinions. Either way - Very sad! SY
 
Good point! Elaras, all is well, this is how this forum works - on topic, off topic, loads of responses.
We all understand your reservations - just so you know, Unesco consider the Camino Frances (now renamed the Camino de Santiago) the safest path in the world for a single woman.
It is not like at home, the Camino is a special place - come, enjoy, keep to the normal awareness of odd situations that any person should keep to.

Go on Camino - Enjoy!!!

Buen Camino
 
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If somebody is anxious about walking alone, the easiest solution, at least on the Camino Francés, is DON'T! My husband, son and I have walked parts of the CF four times, every time, a single woman, usually someone walking for the first time, has attached herself to us for a couple of days. . The camino is a great place to meet new people, and if you see someone you think looks "safe" (a family, another woman) just ask them to walk with you! Just be prepared to follow their speed, don't demand that they adjust to yours.
 
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