Vikita: I agree with the other posts...a blessing to be walking alone. If you do find someone to walk with through your post, you might want to agree to start together leaving the option to separate after you get comfortable with the routine. It will make it easier to part if you are not compatible. That said, I'm sure you will be nervous about starting out alone. Here are some recommendations that may help. Once you actually start to walk you will be among other pilgrims (new and experienced) and everything will fall into place.
1. Plan your transportation from the airport to your start point in advance. Make reservations or have departure times for bus/train. I always print out specific instructions (using forum advice) so I know exactly what to do when I get off the plane. If you are uncomfortable with the language/public transportation, take a taxi to the train station or bus depot (some buses leave directly from the airport). Print off all addresses, phone contacts and instructions in English and Spanish (Google translation) so you can hand it to the service worker if you do not speak Spanish.
2. Convert currency in the US. It is easy to use the ATM at the airport upon arrival. On my first trip I felt better knowing I had euros in my wallet and that I didn't need to worry about finding an ATM (exchange rates aren't the best so don't convert too much).
3. Book a pension or hotel for your first night so you can have a moment to rest, repack and explore in privacy. I always check out my starting point - looking for the arrows so I know where to start the next morning. I pick up water and snacks and eat a good dinner too.
4. Order your credential before you leave so you don't have to worry about getting one on your first day (although it is very easy to do).
5. Take a Camino book (or download a book) to read on the plane. There are many personal stories available and it will keep your mind off of "what might happen or go wrong" and, instead provide a sense of excitement and anticipation.
6. In case you need to forward some clothes/belongings to Santiago... I preprint labels and bring brown wrapping paper and tape to mail my travel clothes to my hotel in Santiago. I also map out the location of the post office before I leave. Once I arrive at my hotel, I wrap everything and walk to the post office. My first time (having little langiage skills), it was confusing. This way you just hand the package to the person.
A little unsolicited advice
! But I feel the fear for anyone that has not traveled alone before is in the unknown and what can go wrong. Having a detailed plan to get yourself there helps you feel more in control. Once you get on the Camino throw all that away and walk in faith...everything will work out.
