Originally Posted by
SYates
I actually joined the forum here because I want to learn more about the Appalachian Trail, but as I know the Camino de Santiago very well, I am more than happy to answer any questions that you might have. I walked the CdS for the first time in 1999 (starting in Roncesvalles in the Pyrenees) and the last time October/November 2014 (as part of my "little walk" from Prague to Santiago). But enough of me, here some things to consider, especially when you have already some "wilderness hiking" experience:
It is very crowded, more then 200,000 pilgrims did it 2013 either on foot, bike or horseback, add to that bus tours, day hikers ect ...
The trail is open year round with the main season going from Easter to end of September and the really crazy months being July and August.
You don't need to speak Spanish to get along, but it increases the fun.
You don't need to be religious, but you should be tolerant of those who are.
You don't need to carry much, the way passes through several villages, small towns and the occasional city every day.
Winter hiking is perfectly possible for those that are looking for a quieter, less crowded experience, but some hostels and other services are closed, so it is also a bit more challenging in that respect. And yes, there can be quite a lot of snow in some parts of the way.
The above refers mainly to the Camino Frances, but there are other pilgrimage routes in Spain that are less crowded but have also less infrastructure.
Ok, enough from me, again, if you have any questions regarding the Camino, please feel free to ask me. I will be bothering you all with questions about the AT soon enough, so I am happy if I can help in any small way in exchange. SY