- Time of past OR future Camino
- September 14, 2024
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Thank you and you’re right! I’m so excited. I’m not in the best of shape and I’m carting some extra weight but I can walk and be in my feet for a long time. One of the gifts of aging is my ego around fitness has dropped a lot. I respect my limits. Thank you for sharing your experience.From your post, I sense less "afraid/nervous" and more "excited." As well you should be!
You are heading for an amazing adventure of a lifetime, one it sounds like you have been preparing for. Of course you should be excited!!
I've done the Camino 3 times now and I still envy those like you who are preparing for their first Camino, because of that adrenaline rush of the unknown that first time.
I was much older than you and out of shape. I walked from SJPdP to Santiago solo in one magnificent journey. I didn't think I could do it but returned in better shape than when I left. I came back a changed person (at least, that's what my husband tells me).
Use common sense, be open for new experiences, don't be afraid.
Keep us posted and Buen Camino.
You can do it! How cool that you feel pulled to do it and now you are almost embarking on this long awaited journey. There are so many services after Sarria that you will find everything you need available to you. Have fun and enjoy the journey.Hi all. I have been pulled to walk the Camino for over a decade. I didn’t think it was possible because 40+ days away from my family/work isn’t feasible. Then I found out people do walk sections of it, so I’m walking from Sarria starting 9/14/2024. I randomly picked Sarria because it will take about a week, and I want to walk the Camino Frances.
I’m 56 years old, from Boise, Idaho, & traveling alone. I’ve never been to Europe, don’t speak Spanish, and I will spend 2 days in Madrid before taking the train to Sarria. I need to do this for me. I’ve been planning this since last year, and I’m so nervous because it’s all getting so real. Honestly, I could use a little encouragement/reassurance.
I so sympathize! I'm 70 and planning a walk next spring, from SJPP over the mountains to Pamplona- alone. thanks for your question as I too am nervous about being a solo traveller yet so want to do this. Thanks to others for their encouragement!Hi all. I have been pulled to walk the Camino for over a decade. I didn’t think it was possible because 40+ days away from my family/work isn’t feasible. Then I found out people do walk sections of it, so I’m walking from Sarria starting 9/14/2024. I randomly picked Sarria because it will take about a week, and I want to walk the Camino Frances.
I’m 56 years old, from Boise, Idaho, & traveling alone. I’ve never been to Europe, don’t speak Spanish, and I will spend 2 days in Madrid before taking the train to Sarria. I need to do this for me. I’ve been planning this since last year, and I’m so nervous because it’s all getting so real. Honestly, I could use a little encouragement/reassurance.
How long did your journey from SJPdP to Santiago take?From your post, I sense less "afraid/nervous" and more "excited." As well you should be!
You are heading for an amazing adventure of a lifetime, one it sounds like you have been preparing for. Of course you should be excited!!
I've done the Camino 3 times now and I still envy those like you who are preparing for their first Camino, because of that adrenaline rush of the unknown that first time.
I was much older than you and out of shape. I walked from SJPdP to Santiago solo in one magnificent journey. I didn't think I could do it but returned in better shape than when I left. I came back a changed person (at least, that's what my husband tells me).
Use common sense, be open for new experiences, don't be afraid.
Keep us posted and Buen Camino.
Hi all. I have been pulled to walk the Camino for over a decade. I didn’t think it was possible because 40+ days away from my family/work isn’t feasible. Then I found out people do walk sections of it, so I’m walking from Sarria starting 9/14/2024. I randomly picked Sarria because it will take about a week, and I want to walk the Camino Frances.
I’m 56 years old, from Boise, Idaho, & traveling alone. I’ve never been to Europe, don’t speak Spanish, and I will spend 2 days in Madrid before taking the train to Sarria. I need to do this for me. I’ve been planning this since last year, and I’m so nervous because it’s all getting so real. Honestly, I could use a little encouragement/reassurance.
Hi Michelle, you'll be fine and you'll have the time of your life. The Camino Community is wonderful and Spain very user-friendly even if you speak no Spanish, although as others have said, a couple of basic phrases would be handy. Embrace the unknown and relish every minute. Buen Camino!Hi all. I have been pulled to walk the Camino for over a decade. I didn’t think it was possible because 40+ days away from my family/work isn’t feasible. Then I found out people do walk sections of it, so I’m walking from Sarria starting 9/14/2024. I randomly picked Sarria because it will take about a week, and I want to walk the Camino Frances.
I’m 56 years old, from Boise, Idaho, & traveling alone. I’ve never been to Europe, don’t speak Spanish, and I will spend 2 days in Madrid before taking the train to Sarria. I need to do this for me. I’ve been planning this since last year, and I’m so nervous because it’s all getting so real. Honestly, I could use a little encouragement/reassurance.
I walked my first Camino Frances last year solo from SJPP at 65 years old. I also landed in Madrid. I don't speak Spanish either and was also fairly nervous. I had planned this trip for 4 years. The first day you start walking and say Buen Camino to a few other Pilgrims and start talking to some of them you will start to feel at home on the Camino. Next thing you know you will be planning another Camino.Hi all. I have been pulled to walk the Camino for over a decade. I didn’t think it was possible because 40+ days away from my family/work isn’t feasible. Then I found out people do walk sections of it, so I’m walking from Sarria starting 9/14/2024. I randomly picked Sarria because it will take about a week, and I want to walk the Camino Frances.
I’m 56 years old, from Boise, Idaho, & traveling alone. I’ve never been to Europe, don’t speak Spanish, and I will spend 2 days in Madrid before taking the train to Sarria. I need to do this for me. I’ve been planning this since last year, and I’m so nervous because it’s all getting so real. Honestly, I could use a little encouragement/reassurance.
You will have no problems. In 2022, I walked the entire Camino Frances at 71 yrs of age and alone, carrying my backpack along the way. Especially if you start in Sarria, not a problem you will have lots of people who start their camino from there. Buen CaminoHi all. I have been pulled to walk the Camino for over a decade. I didn’t think it was possible because 40+ days away from my family/work isn’t feasible. Then I found out people do walk sections of it, so I’m walking from Sarria starting 9/14/2024. I randomly picked Sarria because it will take about a week, and I want to walk the Camino Frances.
I’m 56 years old, from Boise, Idaho, & traveling alone. I’ve never been to Europe, don’t speak Spanish, and I will spend 2 days in Madrid before taking the train to Sarria. I need to do this for me. I’ve been planning this since last year, and I’m so nervous because it’s all getting so real. Honestly, I could use a little encouragement/reassurance.
Your nervousness will make this Camino all the more engaging and memorable. And it is time you did the whole shebang by yourself--there times one needs to spend a significant time with their own self as opposed to spending time with 'others.' As you said, do this for yourself and no one else except the one upstairs. This will constitute a most memorable and meaningful experience. Makes no difference if you've never been to Europe; Spanish is not needed. All you need is yourself, the one upstairs, and the Camino you are doing. A perfect recipe for a superb outcome. Let us know when you have done the 'whole' Camino. Our spirits are with you. ChuckHi all. I have been pulled to walk the Camino for over a decade. I didn’t think it was possible because 40+ days away from my family/work isn’t feasible. Then I found out people do walk sections of it, so I’m walking from Sarria starting 9/14/2024. I randomly picked Sarria because it will take about a week, and I want to walk the Camino Frances.
I’m 56 years old, from Boise, Idaho, & traveling alone. I’ve never been to Europe, don’t speak Spanish, and I will spend 2 days in Madrid before taking the train to Sarria. I need to do this for me. I’ve been planning this since last year, and I’m so nervous because it’s all getting so real. Honestly, I could use a little encouragement/reassurance.
Hi all. I have been pulled to walk the Camino for over a decade. I didn’t think it was possible because 40+ days away from my family/work isn’t feasible. Then I found out people do walk sections of it, so I’m walking from Sarria starting 9/14/2024. I randomly picked Sarria because it will take about a week, and I want to walk the Camino Frances.
I’m 56 years old, from Boise, Idaho, & traveling alone. I’ve never been to Europe, don’t speak Spanish, and I will spend 2 days in Madrid before taking the train to Sarria. I need to do this for me. I’ve been planning this since last year, and I’m so nervous because it’s all getting so real. Honestly, I could use a little encouragement/reassurance.
You will also be fine. Madrid, trains and the Camino are all pilgrim friendly and when in doubt, ask questions. I like your positive attitude. Buen CaminoHi, Michele56! I get your nervousness. I'm a bit older than you, and I'm flying into Madrid on 9/14 solo, too, then will head to the town of Segovia the next day (to do some research) before taking the train to Pamplona where I start walking on the 18th. To be honest, I'm more nervous about getting around Madrid, figuring out the trains, etc. Can't wait to plant my feet ON the Camino! I'm sure we'll be A-Okay! Let's do this!
Better to live your life - than dream your life. Congratulations you’ll never be the same.Hi all. I have been pulled to walk the Camino for over a decade. I didn’t think it was possible because 40+ days away from my family/work isn’t feasible. Then I found out people do walk sections of it, so I’m walking from Sarria starting 9/14/2024. I randomly picked Sarria because it will take about a week, and I want to walk the Camino Frances.
I’m 56 years old, from Boise, Idaho, & traveling alone. I’ve never been to Europe, don’t speak Spanish, and I will spend 2 days in Madrid before taking the train to Sarria. I need to do this for me. I’ve been planning this since last year, and I’m so nervous because it’s all getting so real. Honestly, I could use a little encouragement/reassurance.
Absolutely! My heart is full!So wonderful to see so many instant voices of encouragement! If that is not a poignant insight into what the Camino is all about then I don't know what is!
I would imagine that this massively supportive reaction would be enough to ensure you that you will indeed "be fine" @Michele56 ! Buen Camino!
I want to thank you all for your thoughtful & encouraging words. This warms my heart.Hi all. I have been pulled to walk the Camino for over a decade. I didn’t think it was possible because 40+ days away from my family/work isn’t feasible. Then I found out people do walk sections of it, so I’m walking from Sarria starting 9/14/2024. I randomly picked Sarria because it will take about a week, and I want to walk the Camino Frances.
I’m 56 years old, from Boise, Idaho, & traveling alone. I’ve never been to Europe, don’t speak Spanish, and I will spend 2 days in Madrid before taking the train to Sarria. I need to do this for me. I’ve been planning this since last year, and I’m so nervous because it’s all getting so real. Honestly, I could use a little encouragement/reassurance.
Please keep us updated as you prepare and on your journey. Buen Camino.I so sympathize! I'm 70 and planning a walk next spring, from SJPP over the mountains to Pamplona- alone. thanks for your question as I too am nervous about being a solo traveller yet so want to do this. Thanks to others for their encouragement!
I believe you will be able to do this! I am 70 and doing the Portuguese route solo in early September! You’ve got this!Hi all. I have been pulled to walk the Camino for over a decade. I didn’t think it was possible because 40+ days away from my family/work isn’t feasible. Then I found out people do walk sections of it, so I’m walking from Sarria starting 9/14/2024. I randomly picked Sarria because it will take about a week, and I want to walk the Camino Frances.
I’m 56 years old, from Boise, Idaho, & traveling alone. I’ve never been to Europe, don’t speak Spanish, and I will spend 2 days in Madrid before taking the train to Sarria. I need to do this for me. I’ve been planning this since last year, and I’m so nervous because it’s all getting so real. Honestly, I could use a little encouragement/reassurance.
Michele, on the way no one is alone. Step out and your way will only be as simple as each step you take . Buen CaminoHi all. I have been pulled to walk the Camino for over a decade. I didn’t think it was possible because 40+ days away from my family/work isn’t feasible. Then I found out people do walk sections of it, so I’m walking from Sarria starting 9/14/2024. I randomly picked Sarria because it will take about a week, and I want to walk the Camino Frances.
I’m 56 years old, from Boise, Idaho, & traveling alone. I’ve never been to Europe, don’t speak Spanish, and I will spend 2 days in Madrid before taking the train to Sarria. I need to do this for me. I’ve been planning this since last year, and I’m so nervous because it’s all getting so real. Honestly, I could use a little encouragement/reassurance.
You may want to read the posts of Hector here who is on week 3 at present and totally changed from his very nervous start.Honestly, I could use a little encouragement/reassurance.
Hi all. I have been pulled to walk the Camino for over a decade. I didn’t think it was possible because 40+ days away from my family/work isn’t feasible. Then I found out people do walk sections of it, so I’m walking from Sarria starting 9/14/2024. I randomly picked Sarria because it will take about a week, and I want to walk the Camino Frances.
I’m 56 years old, from Boise, Idaho, & traveling alone. I’ve never been to Europe, don’t speak Spanish, and I will spend 2 days in Madrid before taking the train to Sarria. I need to do this for me. I’ve been planning this since last year, and I’m so nervous because it’s all getting so real. Honestly, I could use a little encouragement/reassurance.
Hi Michelle, I love your honesty that tells me you are gonna be fine. Here's the thing the vast majority of people on the Camino are really goodHi all. I have been pulled to walk the Camino for over a decade. I didn’t think it was possible because 40+ days away from my family/work isn’t feasible. Then I found out people do walk sections of it, so I’m walking from Sarria starting 9/14/2024. I randomly picked Sarria because it will take about a week, and I want to walk the Camino Frances.
I’m 56 years old, from Boise, Idaho, & traveling alone. I’ve never been to Europe, don’t speak Spanish, and I will spend 2 days in Madrid before taking the train to Sarria. I need to do this for me. I’ve been planning this since last year, and I’m so nervous because it’s all getting so real. Honestly, I could use a little encouragement/reassurance.
i was 64 alone very very lapsed catholic i walked the camino frances in july 2024 i learnt buenos dias quanto es how much, and only ever walked for a few hours on a sunday went with the attitude its a journey between two points, how i get there is completely my choice, fantastic, didnt really socialise because i didnt want to snore, although did have a day off and definitely enjoyed its brilliant, just goHi all. I have been pulled to walk the Camino for over a decade. I didn’t think it was possible because 40+ days away from my family/work isn’t feasible. Then I found out people do walk sections of it, so I’m walking from Sarria starting 9/14/2024. I randomly picked Sarria because it will take about a week, and I want to walk the Camino Frances.
I’m 56 years old, from Boise, Idaho, & traveling alone. I’ve never been to Europe, don’t speak Spanish, and I will spend 2 days in Madrid before taking the train to Sarria. I need to do this for me. I’ve been planning this since last year, and I’m so nervous because it’s all getting so real. Honestly, I could use a little encouragement/reassurance.
Happy Birthday!!!Hi Michelle, I love your honesty that tells me you are gonna be fine. Here's the thing the vast majority of people on the Camino are really goodpeople and will look out for you. I'm 56 tomorrow and begin my second Camino on 6th September traveling alone. I'm a little nervous also but always remember the love and friendship I experienced on my first Camino.So get out there and lap it up you are gonna have a blast. Sending you the best Vibes Mel
beginning my first camino some time between 4th and 8th september depending on weather and time to travel through france with my husband. Going it alone from Sarria, like you am nervous, my spanish is limited to ordering coffee or a beer!!! I am 64 years old, have lots to encouragement from neighbours back home most of whom wish to walked the camino but are in their 80's so I appear to be carrying their regrets for never having done it.Hi all. I have been pulled to walk the Camino for over a decade. I didn’t think it was possible because 40+ days away from my family/work isn’t feasible. Then I found out people do walk sections of it, so I’m walking from Sarria starting 9/14/2024. I randomly picked Sarria because it will take about a week, and I want to walk the Camino Frances.
I’m 56 years old, from Boise, Idaho, & traveling alone. I’ve never been to Europe, don’t speak Spanish, and I will spend 2 days in Madrid before taking the train to Sarria. I need to do this for me. I’ve been planning this since last year, and I’m so nervous because it’s all getting so real. Honestly, I could use a little encouragement/reassurance.
I’ll start my portoguese Camino next 17 september….im so happy!!!Hi all. I have been pulled to walk the Camino for over a decade. I didn’t think it was possible because 40+ days away from my family/work isn’t feasible. Then I found out people do walk sections of it, so I’m walking from Sarria starting 9/14/2024. I randomly picked Sarria because it will take about a week, and I want to walk the Camino Frances.
I’m 56 years old, from Boise, Idaho, & traveling alone. I’ve never been to Europe, don’t speak Spanish, and I will spend 2 days in Madrid before taking the train to Sarria. I need to do this for me. I’ve been planning this since last year, and I’m so nervous because it’s all getting so real. Honestly, I could use a little encouragement/reassurance.
Buen Camino, Peregrinabeginning my first camino some time between 4th and 8th september depending on weather and time to travel through france with my husband. Going it alone from Sarria, like you am nervous, my spanish is limited to ordering coffee or a beer!!! I am 64 years old, have lots to encouragement from neighbours back home most of whom wish to walked the camino but are in their 80's so I appear to be carrying their regrets for never having done it.
I am from south coast England and travelling through france in a motorhome with my husband who will say good by to me in Sarria and I will next see him in Santiago. He walked his camino 30 years ago. We both will have done it for our own reasons, neither religious one. Take care see you on the walk x Buen Camino
Bom CaminhoI’ll start my portoguese Camino next 17 september….im so happy!!!
Good day Michele,Hi all. I have been pulled to walk the Camino for over a decade. I didn’t think it was possible because 40+ days away from my family/work isn’t feasible. Then I found out people do walk sections of it, so I’m walking from Sarria starting 9/14/2024. I randomly picked Sarria because it will take about a week, and I want to walk the Camino Frances.
I’m 56 years old, from Boise, Idaho, & traveling alone. I’ve never been to Europe, don’t speak Spanish, and I will spend 2 days in Madrid before taking the train to Sarria. I need to do this for me. I’ve been planning this since last year, and I’m so nervous because it’s all getting so real. Honestly, I could use a little encouragement/reassurance.
I am a 76?yr old single woman who has done all and parts of the Camino 5 times. It is an adventure you will treasure forever. We r all afraid until we see a smile or smile ourselves. There is so much love out on the trail you will be gobsmacked!Hi all. I have been pulled to walk the Camino for over a decade. I didn’t think it was possible because 40+ days away from my family/work isn’t feasible. Then I found out people do walk sections of it, so I’m walking from Sarria starting 9/14/2024. I randomly picked Sarria because it will take about a week, and I want to walk the Camino Frances.
I’m 56 years old, from Boise, Idaho, & traveling alone. I’ve never been to Europe, don’t speak Spanish, and I will spend 2 days in Madrid before taking the train to Sarria. I need to do this for me. I’ve been planning this since last year, and I’m so nervous because it’s all getting so real. Honestly, I could use a little encouragement/reassurance.
I am doing the exact same thing in May 2025- I am curious about the train from Madrid to Sarria. I really want to see Cruz De Farro before, but can walk that distance due to time-Hi all. I have been pulled to walk the Camino for over a decade. I didn’t think it was possible because 40+ days away from my family/work isn’t feasible. Then I found out people do walk sections of it, so I’m walking from Sarria starting 9/14/2024. I randomly picked Sarria because it will take about a week, and I want to walk the Camino Frances.
I’m 56 years old, from Boise, Idaho, & traveling alone. I’ve never been to Europe, don’t speak Spanish, and I will spend 2 days in Madrid before taking the train to Sarria. I need to do this for me. I’ve been planning this since last year, and I’m so nervous because it’s all getting so real. Honestly, I could use a little encouragement/reassurance.
Henrythedog, please share those highly disreputable places in Madrid with the rest of us! Don't be so greedy - I'm thirsty!!You’ll be fine. It’s a friendly part of the world with everything you have at home, often of a higher standard and cheaper - albeit in Spanish.
English is widely spoken on the Camino Frances, and nobody expects you to know what you’re doing. If you don’t understand something it’s probable that you’re over-thinking it. Literally millions have gone before you.
It would be really appreciated if you would post about your experience once you have arrived in Santiago - which you will.
Even the jaded old cynics like me (at 56 you’re in the youth team on here) learn from ‘first timer’s’ experiences.
Don’t over-pack. You need little more than a change of clothes, toothbrush and credit card. It’s only a week - wear the same clothes and have dinner with different people.
And - whereabouts in Madrid are you staying? We can help you out with some highly disreputable places to visit.
If you’re travelling from Madrid by train be sure you’re going to the correct station.
I’m 63 and did the Via de la Plata this year. No problem with the language and it’s great if you make the effort as people are really friendly.Hi all. I have been pulled to walk the Camino for over a decade. I didn’t think it was possible because 40+ days away from my family/work isn’t feasible. Then I found out people do walk sections of it, so I’m walking from Sarria starting 9/14/2024. I randomly picked Sarria because it will take about a week, and I want to walk the Camino Frances.
I’m 56 years old, from Boise, Idaho, & traveling alone. I’ve never been to Europe, don’t speak Spanish, and I will spend 2 days in Madrid before taking the train to Sarria. I need to do this for me. I’ve been planning this since last year, and I’m so nervous because it’s all getting so real. Honestly, I could use a little encouragement/reassurance.
You can do it! Im in my 60s, I left 2 years ago never been to Spain by myself couldn't speak the languages- was able to do the whole Camino from St. Jean . Did the Portuguese last year, and am on the Frances again now. . No problem at all. Most people speak English and help you. If you need it, just ask questions and look up the apps before you go- get acquainted with Omio for railway and buses, you can pre buy your tickets. Camino ninja and Gronze apps- You will never get lost. Just learn how to use them. And you will make great friends who will help you. It is just wonderful you will see, don't worry!Hi all. I have been pulled to walk the Camino for over a decade. I didn’t think it was possible because 40+ days away from my family/work isn’t feasible. Then I found out people do walk sections of it, so I’m walking from Sarria starting 9/14/2024. I randomly picked Sarria because it will take about a week, and I want to walk the Camino Frances.
I’m 56 years old, from Boise, Idaho, & traveling alone. I’ve never been to Europe, don’t speak Spanish, and I will spend 2 days in Madrid before taking the train to Sarria. I need to do this for me. I’ve been planning this since last year, and I’m so nervous because it’s all getting so real. Honestly, I could use a little encouragement/reassurance.
I am 80 and in a similar position to you where I was considering "walking" some trails (most probably UK National Trails but maybe Camino?) using an e-Trike, but the pig parts of my heart seem to be reaching their use-by-date and my doctors have told me not to make the 40 hour flight from Australia any more. In your case you are simply a train trip away from a Camino of your choosing.I’m 65, alone and severely disabled … I’ll be on the Camino this Winter quarter to avoid all the Camino scalp hunters bemoaning the use of e-Bikes (in my case an e-Trike limited to 250W) on a shared trail. So have courage … you are not alone.
I’m 65, alone and severely disabled … I’ll be on the Camino this Winter quarter to avoid all the Camino scalp hunters bemoaning the use of e-Bikes (in my case an e-Trike limited to 250W) on a shared trail. So have courage … you are not alone.
Thank you for the encouragement! I have zero expectations (which is unusual for me). I admit, I am looking forward to some solitude.Hi Michele!! First of all, congratulations on walking your first Camino. You’re so brave and it’s going to be such an experience for you. I can’t say what exactly your experience will be because we’re all different, but I find that walking it alone opens the door to such spiritual transformation in my personal experience. I walked the Primitivo alone and I’m walking the Portuguese from Lisbon to Santiago to Compostela alone in less than a week! As many have said, you’ll see other pilgrims along the way, some areas more than others and you can chat with them if you like. What I found great was I could also not chat when I wanted my solitude and fellow pilgrims respected that. It’s a really unique pilgrimage where I can interact as much or as little as I feel, moment to moment. You won’t be alone. I hope this helps, as have the other comments! Have an amazing journey! Let us know how it is when you’re back!
I’m not sure if you seen the movie “I’ll Push You” (based on the book). It’s a beautiful true story about 2 friends, one is in a wheelchair, on the Camino. It is a big part of what inspired me. Buen Camino! Keep us updated.I’m 65, alone and severely disabled … I’ll be on the Camino this Winter quarter to avoid all the Camino scalp hunters bemoaning the use of e-Bikes (in my case an e-Trike limited to 250W) on a shared trail. So have courage … you are not alone.
Michelle - you're going to absolutely smash it. All those fears and doubts are just a reflection of how much you care and how much it means to you to walk the Camino.Hi all. I have been pulled to walk the Camino for over a decade. I didn’t think it was possible because 40+ days away from my family/work isn’t feasible. Then I found out people do walk sections of it, so I’m walking from Sarria starting 9/14/2024. I randomly picked Sarria because it will take about a week, and I want to walk the Camino Frances.
I’m 56 years old, from Boise, Idaho, & traveling alone. I’ve never been to Europe, don’t speak Spanish, and I will spend 2 days in Madrid before taking the train to Sarria. I need to do this for me. I’ve been planning this since last year, and I’m so nervous because it’s all getting so real. Honestly, I could use a little encouragement/reassurance.
Hi Michele, my wife and I just return from a trip to Spain and Portugal. We didn’t walk the Camino, but in years past I have cycled extensively in the area, often sharing parts of routes with Pilgrims. I know zero Spanish, and have never had a problem. People there are sooo friendly and accommodating I don’t think you will have any issues at all. It is a beautiful, peaceful area and I am sure you will love it. Jeff from Canada.Hi all. I have been pulled to walk the Camino for over a decade. I didn’t think it was possible because 40+ days away from my family/work isn’t feasible. Then I found out people do walk sections of it, so I’m walking from Sarria starting 9/14/2024. I randomly picked Sarria because it will take about a week, and I want to walk the Camino Frances.
I’m 56 years old, from Boise, Idaho, & traveling alone. I’ve never been to Europe, don’t speak Spanish, and I will spend 2 days in Madrid before taking the train to Sarria. I need to do this for me. I’ve been planning this since last year, and I’m so nervous because it’s all getting so real. Honestly, I could use a little encouragement/reassurance.
Yes!!! It’s all about that.You’re amazing. I turn 50 in 2025 and this post in exactly what I feel in my spirit! Self love and self care!
You will be fine. There is something so liberating about travelling solo. You will meet people, share meals, count blisters ( just kidding) and have a wonderful time. Buen Camino.Hi all. I have been pulled to walk the Camino for over a decade. I didn’t think it was possible because 40+ days away from my family/work isn’t feasible. Then I found out people do walk sections of it, so I’m walking from Sarria starting 9/14/2024. I randomly picked Sarria because it will take about a week, and I want to walk the Camino Frances.
I’m 56 years old, from Boise, Idaho, & traveling alone. I’ve never been to Europe, don’t speak Spanish, and I will spend 2 days in Madrid before taking the train to Sarria. I need to do this for me. I’ve been planning this since last year, and I’m so nervous because it’s all getting so real. Honestly, I could use a little encouragement/reassurance.
Hi MichelleHey Michelle - I hear youI'm setting off for my first Camino on my 61st birthday in October - also from Sarria to Santiago; it's a trial run to see how I manage before considering doing the whole walk. I gravitate between incredible excitement and incredible terror. Also female, also alone.... I've booked accommodation on arrival at Santiago and Sarria but have decided to not book accommodation in between... My children are worried about this but I fear it will take away the absolute freedom I am so looking forward to. I'm a pragmatist and take the view that if it is too much I can just hop on a bus and spend extra time in Santiago how bad can it actually be? Millions of people can't all be wrong..
Buen Camino fellow Albertan and future Peregrino66 years old, from Edmonton, Alberta, and walking alone. My French is barely serviceable, my Spanish is laughable, and I haven't been away from my wife's company whilst traveling for over 3 decades. I've been training (inadequately) for the last six months, and my pack's too heavy, even though I've been ruthless in paring it down and have examined every item, one-by-one, on a spreadsheet I've built to try to minimize weight. I'm also too heavy, by about ten pounds in my estimation.
I'm doing it anyways. You can too. By the time I get to Burgos from SJPdP, your Camino will have ended, and I'll take satisfaction in reading about how you completed it.
Buen Camino!
She is in my prayers.Buen Camino fellow Albertan and future Peregrino
I have an apprentice tackling the Pyrennes as we speak and she's facing torrential rains and thunderstorms, tomorrow she's making the grand assault on Roncesvalles. Let's pray she makes it safely. If she can do it, you certainly can do the Sarria to Santiago.
Michele. The Camino does provide. Companionship for me was probably the most important on my last year's debut. You will embrace your odyssey after taking your first tentative steps, enjoying each moment as they magically turn into hours, then days.Hi all. I have been pulled to walk the Camino for over a decade. I didn’t think it was possible because 40+ days away from my family/work isn’t feasible. Then I found out people do walk sections of it, so I’m walking from Sarria starting 9/14/2024. I randomly picked Sarria because it will take about a week, and I want to walk the Camino Frances.
I’m 56 years old, from Boise, Idaho, & traveling alone. I’ve never been to Europe, don’t speak Spanish, and I will spend 2 days in Madrid before taking the train to Sarria. I need to do this for me. I’ve been planning this since last year, and I’m so nervous because it’s all getting so real. Honestly, I could use a little encouragement/reassurance.
Michele, especially if you’re walking the Camino français, you will meet a number of people like yourself. And you will form a “Camino Family” . Some will become lifelong friends. Don’t worry just ask God to keep your spirit aware, open, listening and alive.Hi all. I have been pulled to walk the Camino for over a decade. I didn’t think it was possible because 40+ days away from my family/work isn’t feasible. Then I found out people do walk sections of it, so I’m walking from Sarria starting 9/14/2024. I randomly picked Sarria because it will take about a week, and I want to walk the Camino Frances.
I’m 56 years old, from Boise, Idaho, & traveling alone. I’ve never been to Europe, don’t speak Spanish, and I will spend 2 days in Madrid before taking the train to Sarria. I need to do this for me. I’ve been planning this since last year, and I’m so nervous because it’s all getting so real. Honestly, I could use a little encouragement/reassurance.
Just be aware that pilgrims are usually much nicer to each other than the pilgrims in "The Way" tend to be, even before real pilgrims form a "family" (if they do). The meanness of the pilgrims to each other in Sheen's movie was the most unrealistic part for me, even more than the lack of blisters.Michele, especially if you’re walking the Camino français, you will meet a number of people like yourself. And you will form a “Camino Family” . Some will become lifelong friends. Don’t worry just ask God to keep your spirit aware, open, listening and alive.
If you have not done it yet, see the movie The Way starring Martin Sheen to witness this dynamic.
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