Thank you all for the kind info, for my CI in mid Feb. Thanks again JW for your constant camino work.
I have replaced my drowned phone which will serve to call the hospitaleros (as advised.) And it will be my alarm.
For rain, I have excluded the poncho this time and will take a parka, of the type I used many years ago in a country as wet as Galicia, but which are now not available; I found this one in an Oxford charity shop a week ago, and very pleased I was.
I will have no guide book, but have read thru many posts here. What sticks in my head will do. The alb. situation is confused by season and by delayed junta/ayuntamento plans. I will take a plastic sheet if I cant find an open albergue. Risky in February? Yes.
I live near Le Puy, and today I wandered around the cathedral, unlovely as it is. But it is so important in camino history.
I fly to Madrid from Lyon, then to SDC. After the CI, I will have a little time in Fistera, where some memories will be revisited. And I have a few days in Madrid to see whats what; I have discovered some 13 euro accomodation there. It'll do nicely, thanks. Skint but blessed!
Be wary of Ryanair, anyone. I saw a 5 euro fare from Madrid to SDC, and clicked it; it was then "unavailable". But it was available at a higher price. By the time all their "charges" were added, the fare had vastly increased. I say this for any non European who may be surprised at the scams they play.
I find that those here who did this Way really liked it, except one person, yet I really appreciated that dissenting voice, as I usually do. .....Especially if it's not mine.
I hope to be one of those who likes this Way., despite the time of year.
Gracias a la vida.....