Cycled Europe, 5000km from London to here. The Asian landmass (ie continental plate) is on the other side of Istanbul across a wide river, flowing between the med and black sea. Geography lesson now ends. The ride was harder at the start and got easier after getting fit and into the rhythm. The final day riding through Istanbul was hair rising, the worst drivers I've ever seen. More...

Have made it from London to the Black Sea by bicycle, it feels like a great achievement - marking the occasion with an official dipping of my big toe - we're at now at Varna (Bulgaria) and relaxing on the beach - Bulgaria has turned out much better than expected - thought it might be a tad backwards, but really its pretty much up to date and modern - a big vote from us to join the EEC - fantastic roads, big big rolling hills with great views. Varna is very touristy, lots of shopping, great food and cheap property - lots of the estate agents here - boo, seriously nice property to be had here, and a rural charm.

Romania - sweeping mountain views and finally into the mountains - met parents at a mountain hunting lodge - provided free, courtesy of dad's good Romanian friends at Brassov university - hills and snowy mountain views - guided tour of Brassov and university campus - again, great hospitality - and a good deal to drink.

Opted for the scenic mountain route to Bucharest - setting off into the hills in heavy rain with the old macho 'we can do it' - wet grim fun, zig zagging up and down the mountain sides, all day - one memorable moment - climbing mountain when Peter came off his bike and slid backwards down into the irrigation ditch - didn't know whether to laugh or cry - I did offer to take a photo, but with the river running down the back of his shirt, he opted for a quick hand out. So, when it rains, DON'T tie black bin liners around your legs - eventually they get into the chain and you'll fall off your bike - lovely sunny ride out of the mountains through dream like villages

A couple of unintentional hotels along the way - all good fun - one with an 18th birthday party - where you feel like your 18 then realise your not. The other was out in the sticks, empty, no chance saloon, zero stars - abandoned 1 room because the light bulbs kept blowing - however, it turned out real cosy - five stars because the owners were so nice.

Off again tomorrow, going down black sea coast, and into turkey sometime next week. should have 1 rest day in Istanbul before flying home - a 4 hour flight, or 8 weeks by bike ;)