returning pilgrims and albergues

[Donald Schell]

Dear friends,

In 1998 my daughter Maria and I met a few pilgrims returning on foot as we
were approaching Santiago.  We met them because we were sharing albergue
space with them, so they at least were welcome on their return walk.  The
one we talked to most was an American (one of three we met our whole way)
who had walked from Paris to Finesterra and was now on his way back.  He
hadn't been in Albergues at all as he headed toward Santiago because he'd
timed his arrival to St. James' Day and since the albergues were extremely
crowded with people wanting to time their arrival to include the fiesta, and
he was prepared to sleep outside he always had.

I don't know if more pilgrims on the road in the intervening years has had
it more difficult for the albergues to welcome returning pilgrims walking
back to their starting point.  I don't know if the dependable rule of
priority for space - foot pilgrims, [horse pilgrims], bicyclists, and
finally if space is available those walking with vehicle support is applied
equally for returning pilgrims.  I would hope so, but don't know.  Do
others?

love,
donald