Getting ready to leave

Last Friday was my last day of work for several months. It is a feeling of uncertainty, but also great freedom. I choose when I want to get up in the morning and how I would like to spend the day. Bicycling a few hours every other day is the only obligation I have. For the next 100 days I will live to experience other cultures, religions, foods, people, environments, cities, landscapes and more. Everyday will present something new and exciting, and no day will be like the other. This journey will last in my memories as long as I live. Hopefully it will also teach me more about life and help me understand the world we live in.

Ten years ago I did a similar journey in southeast Asia. Back then I was obviously younger and more carefree. I was less organized and pre-planned, carried less equipment or did not even care to bring a camera. There are advantages and disadvantages to both. Being young and somewhat irresponsible makes life a bit easier. You worry less and things always work out in the end, or at least you think so and that is what counts. Now, being a full adult (questionable) I approach things differently. I plan, reason and think about every detail of my undertaking. I create lists of equipment alternatives, calculate a budgets, look for alternative routes, and even get my body into better shape. This way is undoubtedly more work, but after all, knowing more is more rewarding in the end.

I have done all that I could to be well-prepared for my 100 days on a bicycle journey. All I can do now is to relax and enjoy the ride. See you in Ho Chi Minh City!