Hello New pilgrim here!

[beccaroo]

Hello All.

Just booked my flight to Biarritz end of July aiming to get to Santiago in a month. Really REALLY excited and also quite afraid of what I've just made the commitment to do! Still in the researching stage, any advice most welcome, particularly on equipment. I've never attempted anything like this before!!

Hopefully 'bump in' to a few of you on the way...

 

[JohnnieWalker]

Hi Beccarooo

Welcome to the Forum. The flights is booked now all you have to is pack your bags. We all share your excitement. You'll find lots of information on this forum and what you can't find - just ask. People will be very happy to share their experience.

Buen Camino when it comes

 

[londonesbii]

What I learned in 2003 that is vital:
take half the clothes you think you need (one set to wear, one to wash and maybe one spare set of underwear)
do take a digital camera but don't take too many pics early on - you run out of power and memory before Santiago!
smile and act a lot - it overcomes a lot of not speaking Spanish or Gallego
share willingly with others and others will share willingly with you
if you do not live in a hot country, don't expect that comfortable boots will stay comfortable
make sure you have 'compeed' or similar plasters and a needle to puncture blisters in your 1st aid kit
do take a Spanish phrase book
don't take too much reading material (not even your whole holy book if you have one - take part or photocopy of one section to focus on!)
Only have your mobile on for 15 minutes morning and evening
coffee with milk = caffe con leche. CCL grande = big coffee with 2 shots of caffeine CCL en basso = big coffee with only one shot
Kaz Limon is a very refreshing cold carbonated drink for the middle of the day
If your water bottle/camel is in the top of your pack, by lunch time you will be drinking warm water!
even if you don't normally walk with sticks, buy 'dos palos' (two sticks) as they really help spread the weight you carry. The shop keepers are very good advising what size poles (palos) to use.
everyone wants you to succeed, so accept help with grace!