Essaouira to Bouabout

THE START LINE

• Essaouira 20th March 2016

After an early start out of Luton, we arrive in a somewhat warmer climate than we left. I say we… I’ve a confession, I’ve sneaked along a cycling partner for the start of this journey, namely, Jude! Yes, female, but she tells me she’s tough and akin to a machine… we’ll see.

The journey/adventure started before we even got through the terminal. Nearly two hours just to get to the car park.

First, passports had to be checked by all in sundry on the apron, and then asked, where had we come from! 

Planes, Coaches and Automobiles!

PRE – JOURNEY

My plan is to start in a warm’ish country for spring, heading northwards into Europe as the summer takes hold.

After many hours, OK days, I chose the coast of Morocco. I’ve never been to north north west Africa … so why not!

Months before departure is spent buying and then sending back new bits of kit, I think I thought I would need! Then, what can’t go back is put on eBay.

What a palaver!

In the mean time I’m prepping my Thorn Sherpa ready for the start line.

The main things obviously been the points of contact.

Padstow to Pontsticill Forest

 

WALES – CAM UN

• Padstow 5th June 2014

As with any departure from Padstow, I’ve a pleasant cycle along the Camel Trail towards Bodmin Parkway railway station. This time, an appointment with the Penzance to Paddington (London) train.

First, just the small obstacle of a fallen tree … not so small! No going over, no going round, so remove the panniers, drag them and bike under.

Fortunately the summer is looking like a good’un and long may it continue!

From the Severn Beach end-of-the-line station stop I’ve a pleasantly flat cycle to the Severn Bridge.

Tahakopa Valley

Going Nowhere Slowly – A Micro Journey

• Owaka 9th April 2014

I start the day with a dutiful photo outside the The Catlins YHA. Home for the last five months.

Over that time I’ve photographed well over thirty cyclists as they’ve passed through, now it was my turn. At last!

As usual, I’m carrying far too much food for three days. Not one to go hungry me and I might well be hauling too many clothes too!

Thorn Sherpa – Final Build

A coach, three flights, a coach and many hours, my Thorn Sherpa arrives, along with me. Thankfully in one piece to the little town of Owaka, Catlins, New Zealand.

Some minor superficial damage to the box, apart from that, it’s all in good order. A box over a bag any day! Box vs Bag.

Reunited.