Have turned away from Black Sea coast, taking a less trafficy road into the mountains, blue sky, beautıful mountain scenery and lakes, followıng a winding rıver gorge uphill, far exceedıng expectations. A pleasant surprise to fınd the cycling easier than the coast, since the uphills are long and gradual. Tried to camp in an orchard, but the owner ınsisted we use the nearby quarry, fıne apart from getting the tent pegs into the ground. Propped tent up with rocks, another string to the campıng bow. Keith expertly cooled the beer in the river. More...

1500km from Istanbul, resting up today in Giresun on the black sea coast of Northern Turkey. A fond farewell to Gavin who took the bus/plane back to Istanbul, was great company and really great to have your company on the Turkey Leg, we will miss you Gavin, maybe see you ın China later.More...

Am now 500km out of Istanbul cycling east. Keith & I are cycling to China (maybe further), Steve has 4 months and Gavin has joined us for Turkey. Maree and my Parents came out to Istanbul for the sendıng off party. Enjoyed showing Mum & Dad around the Grand Bazaar, ancient churches & mosques, breakfast on the terrace overlookıng the Bosphorus channel and shipping crossıng over to the Black Sea. More...