Shoes /refugios/just returned

[jcampbel]

My two cents on the shoe issue... I just returned from the Camino (Leon to
Santiago) with a group of college students, and I would definitely recommend
lightweight hiking boots (not running shoes).  Most of it is road or smooth
path, but there are some sections that are rocky stream beds, and it was
essential to have the thick soles and ankle support.  My students actually
found the Camino more physically challenging than they'd expected; even though
all were physically fit and active (most regularly participated in intramural
sports like soccer and tennis) most had a hard time doing more than 20k a day.
 Then again, there were 70-year-olds that just sailed past us.  It's not too
difficult, but no one should have unrealistic expectations that it's a walk in
the park!  :)

And I'll echo the warning about the refugios - even though we were traveling
in May, even the larger refugios were starting to fill up by 2 pm.  Not a
problem if you get an early start, and they'll nearly always offer at least
floor space to latecomers, but good to be forewarned.  Saludos,
Jodi Campbell