kim in cornwall
New Member
- Time of past OR future Camino
- Novice, plan to walk from porto in September.
Walking Portuguese Camino, walking partner left me in Redondela. Are there any lone females who wouldn't mind a quiet companion?
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Sorry I can't oblige, Kim. Is there no sign of anyone else on the road? Tag along, surely someone will make space for you in the pack... Just keep checking in here, maybe say something about your day - that will help take away part of the feeling alone.
I've no doubt there is a pile of people behind you. Just walk mindfully and surely a new friend will appear.
So, Kim, how is it going? As you can see, people are interested!Walking Portuguese Camino, walking partner left me in Redondela. Are there any lone females who wouldn't mind a quiet companion?
I walked on my own last year and it was all good I must say it is nice to see pilgrims up ahead or following along behindIf not walking totally alone is important to you, I recommend assessing folks at your accommodations or place of eating, in the evening when you may be socializing. Approach someone your "sixth sense" tells you is 'safe,' and find out what time they plan to leave in the morning.
Middle aged couples, and other small groups of women are usually the best for this sort of thing, but I do not suggest limiting yourself. Rely on your intuition. You KNOW how to make this assessment. I often say yes to women who ask me if they might tag along. At 65 and somewhat garrulous and inverterently helpful, I am perceived as a safe walking companion... Go figure... Anyway...
Ask if they mind a 'tag along' the next day. I have only VERY rarely met a pilgrim who stated they would rather be left in silence. I always respect this. I have asked to tag along myself, especially if I happen to be having potential health issues at that moment.
Then, plan your morning getaway so as to not hinder the others. If they say they will likely leave at 0700. Be ready at 0645, etc. Do not be 'clingy.' Just amble along close(ish) to these folks, chatting etc, as is indicated. You can also do this as you are starting off in the morning. Spot someone the evening before, speak to them at breakfast, or whatever, and ask to just tag along.
Tagging along does NOT mean you have to be Best Friends Forever (BFFs). It just means you have met these folks, exchanged basic information and are keeping them within hailing distance.
This is also a sound, basic safety thing for solo females. The Camino is VERY safe for all. But, being within eyesight of other pilgrims is often very reassuring, especially to a first-timer.
This all said, everytime I make this recommendation, there are some out there in Forum-land who chide me stating they always walk alone. They are usually inferring a criticism of those who do not wish to, as well as to me for even suggesting that there are others, particularly women who might desire a walking companion.
My answer is ALWAYS the same. No two pilgrims are alike. Someone with a lot of Camino or distance hiking experience will have more confidence than a newbie.
Above all, remember RULE ONE... It is YOUR Camino. No one else has the standing or right to tell you what is right or wrong. I wish you a happy and productive Camino.
Hope this helps.
I walked on my own last year and it was all good I must say it is nice to see pilgrims up ahead or following along behind
My own concern would be getting lost
But I really enjoy the head space I get from walking alone
Yes that is what I have discovered today, and am feeling very good about it, thank you.