In some ways this trip is the most complicated thing I’ve ever done, biking from Bali to.. well we don’t know yet, let’s say China for right now. In other ways, this trip is really, really, simple. I’m just looking to explore, have fun, and see the world. Approaching the end of college, I knew I wanted to dive into an adventure. My thoughts meandered from hiking the Pacific crest trail, to a round-the-world-surf-trip to solo traveling through Asia. There was no mark as to where one thought ended and the next began, but organically I threw out the idea of a bike tour through Asia to a friend of mine, Andres Tobar, and he took the bait.
We’re both really just looking to seize a moment in our life where we can do something crazy and fun, even crazy fun. So many people, my age and many years older said, “Just do it” So we are, and I’m glad, really glad.
I’ll share a brief anecdote. At my grandma’s nursing home, one of the other residents has a husband that comes to visit his wife all the time, he’s in is 70’s or early 80’s ish. My mom can clarify in a comment, and I’ll correct. When I told him about this trip, he said “You know, I was always waiting until retirement to finally do something like that and even in retirement, the time never came”(I paraphrased) I’m not going to wait, I’m just doing it now and this blog is to share my experience of going through this, good, bad, ugly, great, frustrating, tiring, and exciting. All of it.
I have a habit of always walking that much further to see what’s around the next bend, I can’t help it, I’m curious. This trip is a product of the curiosity, we’ve got our bikes and no plans, ready to see what South East Asia is all about. Hence, The Adventour.
When I was your age I decided the whole idea of retirement was backwards so I left for a year demanding my then first husband “retire” with me and travel the world with a backpack. It was the 60’s. It was the best time of my life. Now being closer to what is “actual” retirement age, I could never do that; In that way. Not in the same way and he has since past. On his death bed he thanked me for my tenacity. Everyone else thought we had lost our minds. I’m still very much that gypsy. The education and the lessons I learned has directed the rest of my life. I admire you and love that mom shared this blog so My gypsy can live vicariously through you. This type of travel taught me at a very young age, we are all one.
the gentlmen you refer to Garay, has his wife in the same nursing home. He planned his whole adult life to work hard, retire and travel. His wife has early onset of Alzheimers so now he spends his days since retiring visiting his wife daily in the nursing home. He emphatically told Christopher to go now and travel becaue we never know what life will bring.
WOW! I’m so excited to get caught up here. Had a birthday celebration for Mom (grandma) 3/10 and asked Maureen -what’s happening with Christopher? and got some details- and now finally have your location and blog and shall be able to follow you and your friend Andres! I’m really glad Gary shared his story and his encouragement with you. He is a great guy and I see him every time I visit Mom. Kudos to Caren for having that courage and adventurousness in their youth (belatedly sorry for your loss). Chris-it is that gypsy spirit that will keep you young forever! Enjoy every minute of this experience and I look forward to following you and Andres’ journey-Love- Your Uncle Mike.
Hi Chris! It’s Xavi, the Catalan guy you met near the Bromo volcano! Great trip, and great blog! You made the right decisions setting off for this journey, I’m sure you’ll never regret it! Greetings from Houston, Texas, and keep on cycling!