How true! On all counts. I'm ready to just head for the hills and sleep in my tent. : )

Mary, I posted some pictures in the photo gallery section. While it isn't anything like the JMT, CDT, AT, PCT, XYZ,(!) it was lots of fun.

Hi Donna,

First of all, I hope you are feeling better! Next, great pictures!!! Thank you, this makes it so real; all the detail of the different sections you were on are gorgeous, the shot of the table with the bread is terrific; and most moving is the memorial to the dead. I have to say it again, but I'm glad I will be able to touch base with you to discuss my plans as I begin to design my route.
So, are you going back next year? Or are you going to wait a bit? Tell me, Donna, did you feel uneasy or afraid at any time on the Camino? I have backpacked many different places for 2 weeks at a time and always have felt comfortable and secure, but a woman I know from San Antonio who traveled alone made a comment about some people on the path.
My thought is she felt this way perhaps for lack of a hiking partner, or insecurity of the land, culture, people, etc.
Hey, enjoy the rest of the weekend! Thanks so much again for the pictures and your insight.

Mary

There were lots of woman of all ages hiking alone on the trail. One woman from Germany was 75 and did the entire thing 'alone'. You are never really alone on the Camino. There are so many to walk with, and the albergues always have someone there. I was a bit nervous as I entered Madrid because of pickpocketers, but I kept my valuables safe, so it worked fine. Yes, some men will proposition you...these were the locals and not the pilgrims. One farmer with his sheep (the one from the picture) was hitting on every woman on that trail. So...they back off qquite easily. As in any place, don't be stupid about where you are at night. As a pilgrim, one is too tired after dinner and they lock you out at 10 pm if you are not in the room.

BTW, Spain won the Euro cup!! I wish I was there right now!

I am getting better. The doctor fixed me up with some good medicine.

Not sure when I will return, due to the cost of airfare and all. My friend is remaining in Finisterre. She said it is like Shangri-La and no reason to leave. maybe we will do the coastal walk. Or the JMT. : )

Edited by leadfoot on 06/29/2008 15:19:40 MDT.