Ever thought about doing a pilgrimage?

Last year I saw the movie The Way and it had such a calming effect on me, despite its subject matter, that ever since I’ve been thinking about making the trek to Santiago de Compostela. Though I was raised Roman Catholic, I’m not very religious, but for a while now (after having gone through some pretty major life events this past year) I’ve been feeling a bit spiritual and more in touch with my inner self. I wouldn’t be doing it any time soon for financial reasons, but I do hope to some day be able to. I’m not exactly sure for what reason(s) other than I think it would be a great way to take a break from the hectic, everyday life of the US as well as a great way to “cleanse” my mind and also see new places on foot and meet people from all walks of life.

Have you ever done or thought about doing a pilgrimage? If so, to where and for what reasons – religious, spiritual, personal, just because, etc? If you’ve thought about but never done it, do you think you ever will? And if you’ve done one, what did you take away from it and what advice do you have for people who are thinking about it?

Thanks in advance, everyone :)