Questions- just details

[Howard Murphy]

Hello Marianne,

In a message dated 04/12/01 18:55:11 GMT Standard Time, MGParkeraAOL.COM
writes:
> 2.  Is the Camino generally safe for a 50+ woman alone?   (I speak Spanish)

In general the answer is yes, but you still have to look to your own safety
with regard to money and such things. When you handle money do so carefully
and be aware,
break money in small packs and carry separately on your person, do not leave
valuable cameras or other belongings lying around.
If you travel light you have less to worry about, you are more mobile and
safe.

In particular, travelling alone, if you read pilgrims diaries you will find
many people meet up and travel together, meet of an evening, so many
computations in other words you have the choice. Before logging on I had been
looking at photographs
and not many of them are of me alone. You become so accustomed to making new
friends all along the way and meeting them time and time again on the Camino.
The friendly meetings in the albergue, sitting around talking about the
journey, the sights and interesting folk, preparing meals, sharing and eating
together are all part of the experience. You never need to feel alone the
choice is yours.

>  3.  What is the best practical guide book if I want to stay in simple inns

There are many sites on the Internet giving details of accommodation, do
consider trying the albergue or other refuge along the way.
However if it is a personal wish for privacy and you are worried about
sharing dormitories, privacy is in the mind. A light sheet or similar item
tucked in along the
top mattress of the bunk can shield the bottom bunk, a blessing in the early
hours
when the early birds leave.

Ask at your local library for books, study them and decide on any particular
guide book that suits you, then buy it. However many are too heavy to carry,
so make notes or photocopy only the pages you wish to take.
Visit Amazon and other online booksellers and this gives you titles and
reviews.
Members of the list will be sending their recommendations too.

Online Pilgrims Diaries are well worth reading giving much practical
information.
Look out for the diaries of female pilgrims and you will have many of your
questions answered.

> 4.  What is weather like in Sept and Oct.?>>>
I travelled August to October and had good weather all the way. although I
was told it is not usual. However September is considered to be one of the
dryer months.

A safety tip for your backpack is to tie one of the throwaway CD disks onto
it, they make marvellous reflectors.
Every Blessing to you,
Howard

Hmcellardykeaaol.com

Howard Murphy
81 George Street
Cellardyke Harbour
Anstruther. Fife. KY10 3AS
Scotland. UK