Thank you
@Teej41 for your reply and well wishes! It's always disheartening to hear about people preying on the unsuspecting - whether on the Camino or elsewhere!
I'm only spending a week on the Frances this time around but have every intention of completing the full route in the future. I've done the Norte/Primativo and San Salvador solo without any issue. But what's surprised me this week is that there seems to be noone else walking this stretch at the moment. I knew it'd be quiet (time of year, Covid etc) but I never imagined sleeping alone in Albergues and not seeing anyone on the trail for days. That's what made yesterday's encounter so concerning once I had time to process it all.
While it's worrying, I also don't want to let this situation take away from what has otherwise been a wonderful experience! I'm a Canadian living in Spain and haven't seen my family for a few years now because of Covid. I didn't want to pass the holidays alone but thought the Camino has always been a source of joy for me so now seemed like a good time. Away from crowds and Covid. I've always enjoyed being alone en el campo and have had some truely memorable moments these past few days.
As mentioned in another reply on this thread, I've spoken to the Guardia Civil and they were fantastic. Drove me to a good place to resume my Camino and I now have the AlertApp and reassurances that they're just a call away. And of course, I so appreciate the messages on this forum!