tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-51705186389216084482024-03-14T13:43:33.418+08:00KL-LONDON CYCLING MARATHON 2011oadnanxtremehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06409562202169384327noreply@blogger.comBlogger112125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5170518638921608448.post-11457353624223194912012-08-09T12:07:00.001+08:002012-08-09T13:00:17.910+08:00London 2012<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
London 2012 is well into the last few days and Team GB is enjoying a great run in the Medals tally and has not only surpassed the total won in Beijing , but achieved the best ever result in its history. It must be said that Team GB has indeed put up a great show from the start with the Opening Ceremony that displayed a fresh approach with numerous innovative ideas . Great Britain had indeed been in the forefront not only in modern inventions as seen in the Industrial Revolution in but also in pioneering a number of sports . Tennis, football, cricket , golf and many others had their roots here and it is also here that rules and regulations governing the sports were formulated and fine-tuned to what we know today. The Opening Ceremony as seen by millions if not billions of television viewers around the world was indeed spectacular to say the least . While credit must go to the Oscar winning director Danny Boyle for creativity, it was the enthusiasm of those taking part in the ceremony that really captivated the audience.<br />
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As with all the previous Games, this one is not without incidents. Athletes in <br />
Badminton for instance were shown the exit from the Games for their unsporting behavior while accusations of unfair tactics employed by certain teams were also heard. All in all the host nation, Team GB must be <br />
given credit for the excellent achievement. Everywhere you go you can feel the positive vibrations among the populace that were not evident previously. Well done Team GB for the success. The Games have inspired not only those in Great Britain but people all around the globe . As for me although all the excitement of the Games was through watching it on television I cannot complain because through it I was able to watch any sport that I fancy just by switching channels as all the sports were televised live.<br />
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Capping my stay in London has to be the 'reunion' of sorts that I had with my old friend Lim Kim Swee in Central London. Kim Swee is here visiting his daughter who is working here and as he knew that I was here arranged a meeting and it was indeed nostalgic. We reminisced of the time we were in Wolverhampton when we were students fifty years ago. We stayed in the same house then and together with some three hundred other Malaysians, the bondage that we share then is still evident till today , something that we are very proud of and not seen in present day Malaysian society.<br />
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By the time you read this blog I would probably be back home in Malaysia and while it had been an unforgettable experience and adventure I would not have been able to come this far without the support and encouragement of all of you. For that I say thank you from the bottom of my heart. Till another time, God Bless You all and take care.<br />
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Me and my old buddy Lim Kim Swee<br />
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This lovely lady from Brazil is promoting World<br />
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Its her duty to make London safe <br />
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At the 'Globe'<br />
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I bumped into Susan Sarandon at the theatre<br />
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Batman Strikes Again<br />
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A visit to Stanley Gibbons<br />
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Street Entertainer<br />
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Photo finish<br />
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At the Covent Garden<br />
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<br /></div>oadnanxtremehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06409562202169384327noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5170518638921608448.post-66083269718649192072012-07-19T02:50:00.001+08:002012-07-19T22:10:23.048+08:00London and a long bad, bad summer<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
I arrived in London more than a month ago and during all that time the weather had been far from what is expected of the summer months - warm days with plenty of sunshine. It's the same with the rest of the UK with many places experiencing unprecedented heavy rainfalls and flooding in many areas . It is said that this is the worst summer in the UK in living memory. That being the case much of my time is spent watching TV , something that is not my normal indulgence back home. On the plus side however I must admit that I quite enjoy the opportunity to just sit back and be able to watch the many sporting events that have been and are being televised 'live' over the sports channels. There was the exciting Euro Cup, the Queen's Cup and Wimbledon tennis championships, the Formula One, athletics championships , the on-going Tour de France and of course the much awaited Olympic Games that will kick off in about a week's time. <br />
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Watching the Tour de France I can't help but admire the cyclists on the 'tour' for their endurance and fitness , exhibiting such determination to be able to maintain the highly competitive level throughout the race, kilometer after kilometer, especially on the uphill stage day after day for the duration of the 'tour' which is three weeks with only two or three days of rest in between. I have done a number of marathons, trekked many mountains and cycled thousands of kilometers, over the years but compared to these super athletes I feel very small indeed. What they are doing is truly amazing and inspiring . I don't really quite follow the cycling sport as a whole but I am quite aware of the so-called 'Tour of Langkawi' that is held in Malaysia yearly and correct me if I am wrong if I say that no Malaysian had won the 'King of the Mountain ' stage when the race took place up Cameron Highlands or Genting Highlands. Why?!!. The question is difficult to answer but I think the reason is we don't train enough and do not have the right coaches to make the difference. We may have a long way to go but I guess we just got to keep on trying . After all Britain is still waiting for a local Wimbledon champion after more than 70 years . This time around we have Azizul, who has a good chance of clinching an Olympic medal in cycling . Let's pray for his success.<br />
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Despite the unfavourable weather I managed to do some cycling around the area where I am staying,Barking . The Park in Barking is ideal for recreational cycling, jogging or just walking and the area has a pleasant surrounding with a lake that is home to a fairly large number of swans, ducks and a group of birds that I am trying to identify . They fly, swim on the lake and also dive underwater. It is also home to a large colony of fairly tame squirrels that would even come to feed from your hands if you are patient enough to entice the nippy creatures. I cannot imagine these wonderful creatures having a free rein of these public areas without ending in some cooking pots had it been in Malaysia . Besides the more well known St. James Park and Hyde Park , there are many other parks and open areas in and around London that you can indulge in whatever physical activities you fancy and I can't help feeling angry to think of what is taking place back in Malaysia where the city fathers are replacing our green areas with concrete structures.<br />
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Developed countries of the west have lost much of their natural forests through developments and farming over the centuries but we in the equatorial regions should learn from these countries not to destroy these natural treasures. It is really sad to know that large tracks of forests in South East Asia and the Amazon in South America are being cleared and replaced with farms and other developments. I am happy that my new friend, Heinz from Ulm, Germany has booked a two-week holiday in Malaysia beginning in about 10 days time. Of course our Taman Negara in Pahang is one of the destinations for the family . I hope to be back in Malaysia to see them before they fly back to Germany. <br />
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On one of the rare days when the weather was kinder I managed to take a cycle tour of Central London visiting the iconic sights like Trafalgar Square, the Tower of London, Buckingham Palace and the Tower Bridge. London is always a favourite for Malaysians and it was no surprise that I bumped into a Malaysian couple and their daughter in front of the Tourism Malaysian office in Trafalgar Square. Francis Ho, who is also a keen cyclist, is from Kuching and is here to attend his daughter's graduation. As for the Queen, I opted to skip visiting her, as she was having a nap when I arrived at Buckingham Palace, he he!<br />
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Boris Johnson, the London Mayor is promoting cycling in London in a big way with many cycling programs lined up. I am glad to say that I managed to join an organised ride known as Sky Ride. Such 'rides' are regularly organised in London to promote the cycling culture. While progress is being made in that area there is much to be desired as the infrastructure for cycling in London and in the UK in general is still not in place and the general public not showing much enthusiasm . Cycling lanes in the city are still inadequate and where they exist, they share the same surface as buses and in many housing areas cars are parked on the cycling lanes. To appreciate the cycling culture, you need to go to Germany, Austria or the Netherlands and learn from their experience. <br />
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Athletes and Officials for the Olympics have began arriving in London and don't know when the Malaysian contingent would arrive . I hope to at least witness one of the cycling events where Malaysian cyclists take part if I can get hold of ticket/s to the events. I am counting on the Cycling Federation of Malaysia to give me some tickets. To purchase the tickets is just beyond me. Staying in London itself is proving to be impossible and I can't wait to go home.<br />
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Cycling at Barking Park<br />
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Barking Park<br />
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At the Park in Barking<br />
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The Royal Oak - one of the 'watering holes' in Barking<br />
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The Natural History Museum<br />
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The Cutty Sark - Greenwich<br />
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At the O2<br />
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London's familiar sight<br />
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With Francis Ho, his wife and daughter<br />
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'Nasi Lemak' anyone?<br />
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In London to see the Queen<br />
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Many 'heads' rolled here<br />
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The fishmonger from Bangladesh<br />
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'Thorn' among the roses?<br />
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Olympic countdown at Trafalgar Square<br />
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Chinatown<br />
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'Makan time = Happy time'<br />
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<br /></div>oadnanxtremehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06409562202169384327noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5170518638921608448.post-81012417301794005702012-07-05T18:45:00.001+08:002012-07-05T21:54:28.600+08:00London - All the Colours<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
As far as London goes the city has always been the home to a myriad of people from all corners of the world. The big migration to London (England) actually started in a big way after the World War 11, when many citizens of the former British colonies arrived in droves to fill the need of the industries in the manufacturing sectors and the rebuilding of the country as a result of the war. Many came from India, and Pakistan (when they separated) and the West Indies among others. More recently however there is a surge in migration coming from the former Soviet and the communist states that are now part of the countries forming the European Union. As such many of the workforce now are from countries like Poland, Romania, Bulgaria and also from the African continent. A visitor setting foot in London for the first time cannot be faulted if he wondered if he had come to the wrong place because he would find that wherever he goes he would be meeting more people from other parts of the world, in buses, on trains and on the streets. I am not surprised if there are less Englishmen in London than the others combined. On that note United Kingdom must be given the credit for opening up the country to 'outsiders' who now occupy important positions in the government, as businessmen, traders, MPs, and the Local Council . There is no other nation other than the USA that is seen as more open and democratic in its system. London is a such a vibrant city with a mix of colours , cultures , religions and not surprisingly a city of choice for tourists from around the world. And with the Olympic Games just around the corner London is set to welcome the biggest number of visitors and earn a huge amount of foreign exchange in the process. The venues for the games are still frantically being readied for the opening and there is no shortage of publicity and promotional effort by the organisers through the various media channels.<br />
Since arriving here about three weeks ago I have not done much cycling or going out touring mainly because the weather had been so unpredictable that it just puts you off. Some parts of the British Isles have seen storms, rains and flash floods that are not seen in decades causing a lot of havoc and loss to many people. London, too, has not seen much sunshine but with frequent rains and cloudy skies the last few weeks. Nevertheless, I had gone out to see some of the iconic sights in London to overcome the boredom. Luckily there is no lack of sporting events aired on TV to keep one occupied. There was the exciting Euro Cup soccer, followed by tennis (at Queens Club) and now Wimbledon and Tour de France and then the Olympics . London is a very expensive city and as a visitor, travelling on the buses or the trains and the Underground 'tubes' can drain your resources very quickly. Taxis are definitely out. To add to the costs many of the well known places charge entrances fees for a visit . On the plus side, food is readily available no matter from where you come from. There are Chinese restaurants, Indian, Thai , Vietnamese, Italian, French ; you just name it London has it, including fast food outlets like KFC, Mac Donald's, Nandos, etc. In mixed neighbourhood, cheap takeaway outlets run by Indians and Pakistanis are popular. Halal food is also not a problem.<br />
Cycling in London or in the UK is not as easy as cycling in Germany , Austria or the Netherlands because of a number reasons. How and when cycling became a way of getting around for their daily needs in these countries is not clear but what is evident is the fact that the infrastructures needed for cycling in these countries are all in place making it considerably safe for everyone to cycle including young children and the elderly. It is not uncommon to see individuals, groups or families out cycling together to the local stores, the supermarkets and the parks or during weekend outings for sports and recreation and the varieties of bicycles available are indeed amazing . It would indeed be nice to be here in the UK ( and in Malaysia) when cycling is made safer. The London Mayor is aggressively promoting cycling in London but more needs to be done before the cycling culture takes hold here.<br />
There are no shortage of interesting places to visit or things to do in London and even if you are here for a month you are not likely to to complete seeing even half of London. Visiting the number of Museums and Galleries alone would take weeks and if you are into Theatres , Musicals and Plays, the choices are limitless. The least you can do is visit the famous historical sites and buildings or just take leisurely walks in the Parks. <br />
I have yet to meet up with Malaysians who are in London or the UK so if any of you guys out there would like to do so please contact me through this blog or email me at:www. oadnanxtreme@gmail.com . I would also love to meet up with those in Malaysia who have been following my journey through the blog when I return, God willing before the Hari Raya. Your support and encouragement had kept me going . I believe there are many things that we can share and learn from one another and I hope to continue blogging and of course embark on new adventures. Take care and God Bless You all.<br />
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The famous 'Rocket' the first steam locomotive<br />
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The 1916 Ford<br />
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Early BMW<br />
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Pioneer in Aviation<br />
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The Natural History Museum<br />
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Busking <br />
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O2<br />
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The Cutty Sark <br />
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This guy started the smoking craze<br />
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Boris's cycling effort<br />
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The 'old' Knight<br />
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The 'Painted Hall' at the old naval college<br />
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The Greenwich Meridian<br />
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Olympic Games countdown<br />
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'Mee Goreng' at Greenwich market<br />
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Tea anyone?<br />
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<br /></div>oadnanxtremehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06409562202169384327noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5170518638921608448.post-82887811440411360722012-06-13T15:52:00.001+08:002012-06-13T23:09:16.158+08:00Cul de sac for visa and the rush out of Europe<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Cycling along the Danube cycling trails in Austria and Germany were so pleasant and enjoyable that that we were oblivious to the length of our stay in Europe until reminded of the 90 days visa limit that when we were in Heidelberg we were actually left with only about a week to leave or run foul of the visa regulations. Since trying to cycle out to take the ferry at Calais or Ostande would require a Herculean effort to cover that distance we decided to take the train out of Germany to Brussels in Belgium, and from there go to Ostande , take the ferry and cross over to England before the visa expires. After a few connections we managed to reach a small town Aalter, in Belgium not far from Ostende, where we were guests of Luc Van Parys . Luc who is a seasoned endurance motorcyclist is a good friend of Daniel from Prejmer, Romania (they share the same passion) at whose place we stayed for several days. Like Daniel, Luc who didn't know us until we met him, was also a wonderful host who put us up at his place in spite of his busy schedule at work. During our brief stay in Aalter, we enjoyed the company of Luc's sister and her husband at whose house we were treated to a sumptuous dinner and also meals prepared by his mother Beatrice Van Loocke .I was moved by the warmth displayed by Beatrice who could hardly speak any English, treated us like her own family. We also met some of Luc's friends, who were so warm and friendly, that when it was time to part it was an emotional affair.While we were told that we could apply for visa extensions at the countries we intended to stay, beyond the permitted period, we decided otherwise as our finances were depleting and we were already travel weary. We did not exit Europe from Ostende, but instead from Calais in France, as the ferry in Ostende do not take foot-passengers or cyclists. Luckily Luc was able to rush us out to Calais in a van supplied by a friend.<br />
We reached the Ferry Terminal in Calais at about 5.00pm in gale force winds and were told that services were temporarily suspended and would only resume when the weather conditions improved. The Ferry finally left the port at 9.30pm and only reached Dover, some three hours later, although the journey normally takes only one and a half hours. Well, what an anti climax to our cycling adventure one might say but for such a long journey, to reach good old England the way we did is really not too bad eh!. <br />
We reached London on the 9th of June, one day before our European visa expired and are now staying in Barking , south east London. It is interesting to note that this is not the first time for me that I set foot in England. That happened more than 50 years ago in December 1961 and with a totally different mode of transport. That is another story. Back then I travelled by the jet-prop BOAC Comet that stopped at Calcutta (Kolkata), Karachi, Lebanon and Rome before finally reaching London. You can now fly non-stop direct from KL to London in less than 14 hours. How things have changed.<br />
I couldn't help but feel elated and welcome when leaving the Ferry Terminal in Dover, I discovered that there were actually cycling lanes out of Dover. Unlike the Netherlands or Denmark, England is not known for its cycling culture, so to see positive signs of change towards cycling as a form of people movers, I know I have come to the right place and at the right time. <br />
To give some insight to the seriousness of the promotion of cycling in London readers who have been following this blog must be made aware that prior to the election of the Mayor of London in early May, among the campaign pledges made by the eventual winner, Mr Boris Johnson and other Mayoral candidates were the safety issues of cyclists and improving the infrastructure to match that found on the continent and the needs of cyclists in London . The Big Ride, ' Love London, Go Dutch' campaign that was held on 28th April <br />
saw 10,000 people and about 1,000 volunteers taking part and 50,000 Pounds in sponsorship collected.To ensure that the effort of the cyclists is not futile, the organizers of the 'Love London, Go Dutch' campaign is making the assessment and monitoring the first 100 days in office of the Mayor against the performance of the key demands .How I wish a similar campaign can take place in Kuala Lumpur or Petaling Jaya and the Mayor be held accountable. <br />
At the moment I have no concrete plans to what I shall do before the start of the Olympic Games but I have several options, like a cycling tour around London, say for a week followed by cycling around the British Isles or even go back to the continent to cycle there if that is possible. However, I must admit that to have made it this far and actually having achieved my objective, it is rather strange that I don't actually feel a sense of great achievement or satisfaction for the effort thus far. Perhaps the the inability to cycle that last sector in Europe, especially to the Netherlands, has something to do with the feeling of a slight disappointment. Nevertheless I shall continue to seek new frontiers in the pursuit of adventure. And what better way than to start my new adventure right here in LONDON.<br />
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The St Michael's ruins in Heidelberg is about 900 years old<br />
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This Nazi Amphitheatre is well hidden in the forest<br />
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A view of Heidelberg<br />
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Modern sculpture in Heidelberg<br />
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With Luc,brother-in-law Hendrik and sister Rita in Aalter<br />
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A passion for motorcycles<br />
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With Luc's mother, Beatrice Van Parys<br />
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Aalter 'beef' anyone?<br />
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Our new friends in Aalter<br />
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Ride and ride everywhere <br />
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A 4-hour delay at Calais Ferry terminal<br />
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The bicycles take a Ferry ride<br />
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The White Cliffs of Dover<br />
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<br /></div>oadnanxtremehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06409562202169384327noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5170518638921608448.post-32612051431700192282012-06-05T08:50:00.001+08:002012-06-05T16:57:18.074+08:00Nasi Lemak, Briyani and Rendang in Germany, We'd better get out fast or we may not want to leave<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
We left Munich and backtracked to Gersthofen and then on to Ulm spending some nights camping 'illegally' where and when convenient. As it had happened before, we never fail to come across generous and hospitable people along the way. Just to recall and mention a few incidents, here are some of the nice things that we will remember about Germany: There is quite a large Turkish population here with some of them arriving in Germany after World War Two to work in various sectors to rebuild the country and some who came later to join their countrymen. Many are also second or third generation German-born of Turkish descent and as such we find many food outlets selling Doner Kebabs and other Turkish dishes. While some of these outlets are also run by 'German' operators that may not sell the 'halal' versions we always ask around for the 'halal' joints to have our Kebabs. While these places are obviously operated by Muslims we were always comfortable eating at such places. We don't always announce what we do or from where we come but sometimes when they see us arriving with our fully loaded bicycles and when told where we are from and that we are muslims they always get very excited and would have their photographs taken with us and on more than one occasion would not charge us for the meals , and in some cases packed some other stuff for us to take along before we left. <br />
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On another occasion , while seeing us struggling up a steep hill near the village Burgas, a man stopped his car at his house nearby and then rushed up to us to offer a bottled drink taken from his car, and after hearing of our cycling adventure invited us to stop at his house for a rest and some refreshments. We spent some time there and two of his neighbours also joined in the conversations. Some gifts were also given to us before we left. We didn't mind being delayed somewhat as such incidents add a lot of meaning to our journey.When total strangers can be so warm and friendly why is it that back home there are people who do not value and appreciate our diversity.<br />
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Ulm is another town that has a special place in our hearts. Situated on the banks of the Danube the town straddles the river and known as Ulm and Neu Ulm. As the name suggests, Ulm is where the tourists flock to get the feel of the old world. Ulm boasts of many unique structures such as having the tallest church steeple in the world. It also has a hotel that is tilted so much so that all the rooms are individually renovated with unique fittings so as to maintain the horizontal needs of its occupants. As such the beds, chairs and tables would have legs of different lengths. It is said that the owners spent an incredible amount of money to save it from collapse and maintain it in its current form. I did not venture to ask the room rates because as they always say :' if you have to ask the price, you can't afford it '.<br />
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There is also a restaurant or a Steak House in town that is unique in the sense that it is run by an Italian and it is to me a 'mini' United Nations. The John Bentton Restaurant is owned by Luciano, an Italian, who started the restaurant fifteen years ago and among his staff are a head chef from Sri Lanka, and nationalities from various countries including Afghanistan, Pakistan, Iran, Vietnam , Myanmar, Turkey , Slovakia, and some others. We also had free steaks at his restaurant while in Ulm.<br />
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Not to be outdone was Heinz Klemm, a true son of Ulm, who took the time to show us around Ulm and gave us a guided tour to the various spots and well known places in town including the famous Lutheran church with the tallest tower in the world and an exclusive Art Gallery. To complete our sweet memories of Ulm we spent the last night as guests of Heinz and his lovely wife Sabine at their comfortable home, on a hill six kilometers out of town. <br />
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From Ulm we continued our journey to Heidelberg where we were met by <br />
Elena, Amely and Rais Anderson. Elena and Amely are the daughters of my friend Sulaiman Aziz who is now back in PJ staying in the same neighbourhood as me. Sulaiman used to operate a Malay restaurant here but has since left Germany to try his hand at other ventures in Malaysia. Rais is the only Malaysian student in Heidelberg and also used to work at Sulaiman's restaurant. We were again lucky that Rais was able to put us up at his place and also showed us around Heidelberg. Like all cities, towns and villages in Germany, each is proud of something special or unique that is not found elsewhere and Heidelberg can boast of the only castle ruins that was left untouched during World War Two and you have to see it to believe. It also has many other structures and features to be proud of. While here we were also lucky to witness a grand fireworks display that took place by the river and the castle . Thousands of people including tourists enjoyed the grand display that lasted about twenty minutes. And what better way to end our stay in Heidelberg than to enjoy 'rendang daging' cooked by Rais. Rais, an accomplished cook also used to cook at the restaurant run by Sulaiman. Rais whose father is Danish studied at Sri Hartamas before moving here and having lived and travelled widely in Europe, he would find it hard to readjust to the way of life of racially divided Malaysia should he decide to return and live in Malaysia.<br />
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Our visa validity is ending very soon and unless we are able to extend it we need to rush out of Europe quickly.<br />
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With Heinz and Luciano at John Benton Restaurant<br />
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The tilted hotel in Ulm<br />
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Ahmet and daughters at his Kebab outlet<br />
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With Heinz and Sabine<br />
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At a Kebab outlet<br />
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The Church with the tallest tower in Ulm <br />
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A man's contribution to his town<br />
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With Bruce 'Luciano' Willis of Ulm<br />
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With Rais Anderson in Heidelberg<br />
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The Old 1925 Chevy<br />
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And the new Stretched Limo<br />
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The Castle in Heidelberg<br />
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The well hidden Nazi Amphitheater in Heidelberg<br />
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Heidelberg viewed from the hills<br />
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The ruins of St Michael's is about 900 years old<br />
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The Fireworks display<br />
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At the longest pedestrian walk<br />
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And don't forget to stop and smell the flowers</div>oadnanxtremehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06409562202169384327noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5170518638921608448.post-47907941059302514512012-05-27T23:18:00.001+08:002012-05-28T21:39:09.027+08:00Of generous Germans and Mutton Briyani in Munich<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Some of you might already know that my cycling adventure is partly sponsored by UFL in the form of equipment and some cash and among the equipment UFL sponsored and supplied are products manufactured by Deuter of Germany, so as we were in Gersthofen where Deuter operates from we paid a visit to the Company. We were warmly welcomed by Mr Rainer Wenninger, the Marketing Manager and Mr Melvyn Jones, the International sales Manager and after being briefed and showed around the Deuter complex we were presented with Deuter products that we needed to continue with our cycling. Among the items were a new set of panniers, handlebar panniers, a backpack, a sleeping bag and waist pouches. Deuter is big in Germany and their products are of a high quality. Half of their total volume are for Germany and the other half are for export. I am indeed grateful to Deuter for the support. <br />
My cycling adventure have also been covered by the local media and on the whole I find that people are quite amazed when I tell them that I am from Malaysia. That is because , although most people in Europe are quite used to seeing Europeans on such long journeys on bicycles, not many are from Asia let alone Malaysia. And the fact that I am about seventy is to most a respectable effort by any standards. So far I have appeared on TV in Lahore,Pakistan, the Kurier newspaper in Austria, in Passau, Germany and again here in Gersthofen , carried by the local newspaper Augsburger Allgemene. At some Guesthouses or Pensions and even some hotels I was given generous discounts when I disclosed the nature of my journey. At bicycle outlets we were either given free services or given discounts on items purchased. In Kissing, a small town about 50 kilometer from Munich when we stopped to have the bicycle chain replaced and the rack checked, the outlet manager Ado not only had everything attended to but also did everything for free. Also given free were tubes for our tyres and sets of brake pads.<br />
We made a brief visit to Munich and while there we stayed at the residence of Dr Winfried Kapfhammer who was kind enough to take us in as guests although we did not know him. We were only told to look him up by a mutual friend Sajjad from Pakistan. In spite of his busy schedule Dr Winfried was able to have dinner with us at an Indian restaurant near his house and of course the choice had to be Briyani, Mutton Briyani and mutton curry and rice. The last time we had briyani was when we were in Lahore in January. Dr Winfried is a much travelled man and had travelled extensively in Asia and Europe. He must have left an impression in Pakistan because some people from there still keep in touch with him regularly although the last time he was there was about ten years ago.<br />
There is a lot to see and do in Germany but accommodation is very expensive so we cannot be certain as to how long we will be here before moving on to the Netherlands and Belgium before crossing to England. We have done some 'wild' camping in Germany although we are told that such camping is illegal. Well, if we are caught perhaps we'll get free accommodation in the police station.<br />
I have sometimes been asked if there are wild animals in Malaysia and if camping in Malaysia is safe. They must have watched Tourism Malaysia's promotions on TV showing the wild side of Malaysia. They also asked if there are many monkeys in Malaysia. I have always answered in the affirmative but added that most of the 'monkeys' are found in Putra Jaya, he! he! <br />
- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad<br />
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On the Danube in Neuberg<br />
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With Mr Rainer of Deuter<br />
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At the Deuter complex<br />
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With Ado at his Bicycle outlet<br />
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Wild Camping<br />
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Kaiser's Palace in Munich <br />
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Munich's City Hall<br />
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The Museum<br />
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River Surfing in Munich<br />
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The Old Fountain<br />
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Dinner with Dr Winfried<br />
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Ado attending to my bicycle<br />
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Munich<br />
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The King's Garden<br />
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With Dr Winfried at his residence<br />
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The baby goes everywhere with me<br />
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In the centre of Munich<br />
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With Michael at Hotel Romerstadt. </div>oadnanxtremehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06409562202169384327noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5170518638921608448.post-5435005867770533422012-05-19T15:22:00.001+08:002012-05-19T16:09:45.334+08:00The German Adventure Continues<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
We left Kelheim on a cold and wet morning and as soon as we left the 'Pension' house and on our way towards Neustadt little did we know that we had to tackle a forested area that was a steep hill and our bicycles were certainly not suited to tackle the rough trail. It also started to drizzle and as we had no other choice ,we pushed our bicycles all the way until we cleared the stretch in about an hour. The distance covered was hardly two kilometers and needless to say we were really exhausted. When we finally got on to familiar terrain the drizzle stopped for a little while, but when we thought that the worst was over we had to deal with something Malaysians don't experience back home - sleet. Only a bus shelter 200 meters further on saved us from disaster, had we got fully soaked. Sometimes the weather here plays havoc, changing from glorious sunshine, to cloudy and windy conditions, to rain , snow and back to sunshine, all within the hour. When we finally were faced with very strong headwinds, we decided to call it a day, although we only managed about 30 odd kilometers that day. Cycling along the Danube can sometimes be longer than cycling on the normal roads because you have to go into villages meandering in and out before you get to your intended destination. Many local cyclists use the road and avoid the Danube trails to save cycling time. We managed to find a Guesthouse in Neustadt and spent the night there despite the high cost.<br />
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The next day we were back on the Danube headed for Ingolstadt but when we got there we couldn't find a place in any Guesthouse or Pension as they were either fully booked or closed because the day was a public holiday (Father's Day?) As checking into a hotel was not an option we camped at a secluded spot about 10 kilometers outside the town along the Danube . But again the weather was not kind to us, it was freezing cold in the night. That's the way it is with the weather in this part of the world. Warm sunny days and freezing cold nights. When we were in Regensburg we were told that there are also Malaysian students in Ingolstadt, but we did not meet any.<br />
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Now I am writing this blog from a Pension house which is quite different from those that I have stayed before. This place, Kutscherhof Marienheim, is about 5 kilometers out of Neuburg, a small village and managed by a lady, and among other things she owns 20 horses and ponies all housed within the family property including all that is associated with horses : stables, several horse carriages, and other things that I am not familiar with .From the little that I gathered the facilities available here are horse carriages for weddings, family outings, parties, horse riding for children,etc. In the evening I heard music lessons (horn or a kind of wind instrument) coming from the main house and according to Mirien, families like hers are quite common in Germany. Well, what better way than to share with you my experience than with pictures.I hope you like them.<br />
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We stayed in this Guesthouse in Neustadt<br />
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Can you spot me somewhere there? Yes, the 'Black Sheep'<br />
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In Ingolstadt<br />
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Neuberg on the Danube<br />
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All kinds of horse carriages<br />
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What we could afford<br />
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My new friends<br />
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The Black Beauty<br />
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She's Arabian<br />
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Easier way to travel<br />
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Other things that I can do<br />
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The church is next door<br />
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She's also my friend<br />
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My poor hand<br />
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A huge Kastanie tree in bloom<br />
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Saddles and riding paraphernalia<br />
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<br /></div>oadnanxtremehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06409562202169384327noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5170518638921608448.post-54859937523193519082012-05-16T16:17:00.001+08:002012-05-16T17:27:32.044+08:00An 'Angel' and Nasi Lemak in Germany<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
After leaving Passau we made up our minds that we should camp along the Danube whenever possible in order to save costs as accommodation in Germany was getting too expensive for us. We did just that for two nights before going to Deggendorf. Cycling along the cycle trail about 10 kilometers from Deggendorf a SYT came alongside me and said 'hello' in the usual German way and when I replied with my 'hello' she knew that I was not local. After her enquiry and when told that I was from Malaysia she thought that I was kidding and when I convinced her that I did actually cycled from Malaysia she began to ask more questions and when I told her that I was looking for a place to spend the night in Deggendorf she said that I should follow her to meet some friends in Deggendorf where she was heading to, to finish some work and perhaps they could offer some suggestions. We followed her (Anna Weiss)to meet her friends, who as a matter of fact are cycling enthusiasts and they publish a cycling magazine 'The World Of MTB' . After the introductions and the 'tales' that follow we were invited to be their guests at a BBQ party at Dieter Steiner's house the same night before they break off for the weekend. Dieter is the leader of the outfit and we were also offered a place to stay at the house. Dieter and Anna live in a big comfortable house with two of Dieter's children and that night we had a wonderful time with all present that included Anna's parents and sister, the staff of the publishing company and their families. It was indeed a night to remember.<br />
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The next morning, breakfast was prepared by Dieter's young son, Adrian and as we were not in a hurry to leave Deggendorf we stayed another night at Dieter's place and that night we had dinner with Dieter's parents. Dieter also has a teenage daughter who made us feel very comfortable while there. Anna and Dieter is a wonderful couple who really made us feel welcome and they did everything to not only care for us while spending our time in Deggendorf but also to provide for us cycling pants, tee shirts, socks , a backpack , etc. before we left Deggendorf. Anna even did our laundry. She is a real 'Angel' . Besides working with 'The World of MTB', Anna is also a part - time stewardess with Lufthansa and I look forward to see her and Dieter again when they visit Malaysia, which they must do after I get back home.<br />
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After Deggendorf we camped by the Danube again just outside Straubing and the following morning cycled to Regensburg , another lovely town on the Danube. We were in luck again in Regensburg, when while waiting at a Doner Kebab outlet to be served, a young man on seeing the miniature Malaysian flag on my bicycle spoke to me and was utterly pleased to see two Malaysians at this obscure German town. Noor Al Amin (22) from Langkap , Perak and some 10 of his friends are students at a university here and they live in an apartment close to where we met. After we got our kebabs, Amin invited us to the apartment and also offered us his room . How could we refuse. We met all his friends during the course of the day and for dinner we were served the traditional Malaysian fare, ' Nasi Lemak ' prepared by Khairul Faiz. It was indeed special for us as I had not had 'nasi lemak' since I left Malaysia in September 2011. Nasi lemak never tasted so good, complete with sambal Ikan Bilis, fried chicken, hard boiled eggs and cucumber. Some of the boys are also into cycling and after listening to my cycling tales, I know they are sure to see it from a different perspective. All these boys are engineering students and they certainly have a bright future . They could even stay on in Germany and work in German companies or return to Malaysia.<br />
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As usual we did not see much of the town but close to the apartment where the boys are staying is a beautiful church (or is it St. Peter's Cathedral ) where tourists from all over converge. I am told told that the current Pope, Pope Benedict XVI was born in Regensburg. We left Regensburg at noon and are now in another town on the Danube, Kelheim . <br />
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Thank you Anna and Dieter<br />
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Noor Al Amin is at right<br />
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With a cyclist from Vienna<br />
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Thank you boys<br />
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Faiz showed us the way out of Regensburg<br />
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The bridges are all different<br />
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<center><a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/111310573113267272447/KLLONDONCYCLINGMARATHON2011?authkey=Gv1sRgCLqj8smeyb-MxQE#5743041986541274098"><img border="0" height="210" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-efH7HiLgV64/T7NiQkHyQ_I/AAAAAAAABVQ/nkOaoa_kJ88/s288/25.jpg" style="margin: 5px;" width="281" /></a></center><br />
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Camping under the bridge by the Danube<br />
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On the bridge at Regensburg<br />
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With Malaysian students in Regensburg<br />
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St Peter's Cathedral ?<br />
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Expensive, but sometimes we don't have a choice</div>oadnanxtremehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06409562202169384327noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5170518638921608448.post-70209212728711428452012-05-09T19:08:00.001+08:002012-05-09T19:16:17.445+08:00Passau, Germany<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
It is interesting to note that travelling overland in Europe now is so easy that you can be in another country without realising it if you are not alert. There is no longer the usual immigration procedures, custom checks or the security screenings that are still carried out in other parts of the world. Imagine what would happen if such a situation exist say at the border of Mexico and the USA or at Bukit Kayu Hitam and the border with Thailand , - a ' world without borders ' . I leave it to you to imagine.<br />
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We left Engelhartszell in Austria about 25 kilometers from Passau in Germany and after about 20 kilometers cycling along the Danube we entered <br />
Germany . There is only a small signboard along the trail to say that you are leaving Austria and entering Germany .<br />
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Passau is located near the Austrian and Czech border is on three rivers, Danube, Inn and Ilz. Passau is also called ' gate to the Black Sea '. Passau - the attractive young old city is full of history and culture and in 2012 Passau celebrates its 350th anniversary as a town built in Italian baroque style. The magnificent St Steven' s Cathedral situated on the old town's highest point boast of housing the world's largest cathedral organ. The organ has 17974 pipes, 233 stops and 4 carillons, ( for those who know something about church organs ). All five parts of the organ can be played from the main key board , one at a time or all together, offering the visitor unforgettable acoustical delight. Passau has many other attractions like the Glass Museum, Museum of Modern Art, and the Roman Museum 'Kastell Boiotro'.<br />
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At Presenbeug , in Austria I was interviewed by a journalist Johann, and an article appeared in the local newspaper the following day and here in Passau I was again interviewed by another reporter. There should be something in the local papers too, but I wouldn't know unless I read the local papers.<br />
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I haven't yet decided which route to take in Germany, but as Germany is a fairly large country it will certainly take some time. Any suggestions?<br />
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<center><a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/111310573113267272447/KLLONDONCYCLINGMARATHON2011?authkey=Gv1sRgCLqj8smeyb-MxQE#5740488518449505842"><img border="0" height="210" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-joXE9gmqkZc/T6pP5KNkJjI/AAAAAAAABRw/88eaFoT6rPY/s288/11.jpg" style="margin: 5px;" width="281" /></a></center><br />
A family from the Czech Republic<br />
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<center><a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/111310573113267272447/KLLONDONCYCLINGMARATHON2011?authkey=Gv1sRgCLqj8smeyb-MxQE#5740488572000622466"><img border="0" height="281" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-7FexmjCdLio/T6pP8RtJV4I/AAAAAAAABR4/ATTn347Y7-s/s288/4.jpg" style="margin: 5px;" width="210" /></a></center><br />
This is to say that you are leaving<br />
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<center><a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/111310573113267272447/KLLONDONCYCLINGMARATHON2011?authkey=Gv1sRgCLqj8smeyb-MxQE#5740488620158996050"><img border="0" height="210" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-aPIeJt4_ydY/T6pP_FG_zlI/AAAAAAAABSA/TAyxXEVo8Y4/s288/5.jpg" style="margin: 5px;" width="281" /></a></center><br />
A lovely pair on the Danube<br />
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The first glimpse of Passau<br />
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Friendly Germans in Passau<br />
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That's one 'Big' German, Wolfgang the local reporter</div>oadnanxtremehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06409562202169384327noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5170518638921608448.post-10965228351657922022012-05-06T22:23:00.001+08:002012-05-07T22:04:36.670+08:00Leaving Austria is hard to do<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Austria is not big and I have been here for a week now. In all that time we had been either on the Danube or not far from it, cycling along the cycle trails right from the time we left Budapest. I can't help thinking how wonderful it would be if we have similar facilities in Malaysia. Just imagine if we are able to cycle say from Grik to Teluk Intan along the Perak River or from Kuala Langat through KL and to Port Kelang along the cycle-trails. Wishful thinking you might say, but it is certainly not impossible if there is a will. Providing a cycling lane along the highway from Bukit Kayu Hitam to Johor Bharu is actually easy as the basic infrastructure is already there. Plus should ponder the idea as a bonus to the Malaysian public. It would certainly enhance its image instead of being seen as squeezing the Malaysian public with its scheduled toll increases.<br />
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Just imagine how here you can cycle along the cycle-trails along the Danube for more than 1,000 kilometers through several countries. The Danube also supports an important economic activity, transportation. Large cruise boats and huge barges ply on the Danube regularly transporting tourists, machinery and other items. But it must be the sports and recreational activities that the river provide that is most evident : all cycling disciplines, touring, mountain biking, road-racing, rollerblading, marathon and trail running, walking, boating, sailing, rowing, canoeing (kayaking) boating, water skiing etc.and cafes, restaurants, campsites and marinas are all available along the Danube. And the list goes on.<br />
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We have done some camping in the wild along the banks of the Danube and at one village, Presenbeug, a local man John Hoeksloger, even helped us by showing us the spot to camp safely near the village. The next morning the kind gentleman even gave us breakfast at his house before we left. All along the Danube there are villages and towns not very far apart and these villages and towns boasts of their own history. Some of them go back eight or nine hundred years and the period known as the Middle Ages when these villages thrive. Many of the castles seen along the Danube are built during this period and today some of them are open to visitors. Tourists can choose from a number of itineraries to cruise on the Danube eg. Vienna - Bratislava - Budapest , Passau - Linz - Vienna, etc.<br />
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We are now in Aschach, a beautiful town on the Danube and should be in Passau, Germany on Tuesday, still on the Danube. Austria has provided me the best cycling experience thus far and I don't know if there are better things to come. Some say Amsterdam is the cycling capital of the world. We' ll have to see.<br />
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Activities on the Danube<br />
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Safe cycling<br />
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Swans also enjoy the Danube<br />
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The City Hall Square in Vienna<br />
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History<br />
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Bridges and more bridges<br />
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A castle along the trail<br />
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River cruise on the Danube<br />
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Modern stone sculpture<br />
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Varied scenery<br />
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Civilised logging along the trail <br />
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A family outing on bicycles<br />
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With John Hoekslogor in Presenbeug<br />
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Graffiti along the trail<br />
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Before the sun goes down<br />
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Wine-growing region<br />
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Blue Danube and blue skies</div>oadnanxtremehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06409562202169384327noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5170518638921608448.post-78962209915527509852012-05-05T19:56:00.001+08:002012-05-06T08:48:15.623+08:00Vienna And Cycling Along The Danube<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Vienna has everything for the visitor, applied arts, architecture, science, music and literature and of course wine, women and good food. But the irony is I did not enjoy any of it as Vienna is too xxxxxxg expensive that I only managed to feast my eyes on the sights in the city for a day. Yes, the city is fascinating and captivating, if you can afford, that is. You can party all night, sightseeing all day, music around the clock, dance in high heels or flip flops, wine at taverns, cafes and bars,or just enjoy chilling out at the Prater, the unique recreational area and amusement park that boasts of 250 attractions.for young and old. The onetime imperial hunting grounds were opened to the public in 1766. 2,500 trees line the Hauptalle (main avenue) where joggers, cyclists and horse drawn carriages are seen daily. To get an overview of the 6 million square meter site you can take the Giant Ferris Wheel and enjoy Vienna from 65 meters up.<br />
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For all of you, just enjoy the pictures: <br />
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<center><a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/111310573113267272447/KLLONDONCYCLINGMARATHON2011?authkey=Gv1sRgCLqj8smeyb-MxQE#5739015144528726322"><img border="0" height="210" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-BsSQjTBxYpE/T6UT3go4yTI/AAAAAAAABMY/6fhnvjFtWqY/s288/10.jpg" style="margin: 5px;" width="281" /></a></center><br />
The Giant Ferris Wheel<br />
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<center><a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/111310573113267272447/KLLONDONCYCLINGMARATHON2011?authkey=Gv1sRgCLqj8smeyb-MxQE#5739015202497523314"><img border="0" height="210" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-OWdkZPVaFKQ/T6UT64lubnI/AAAAAAAABMg/GrkT6Uspmd4/s288/15.jpg" style="margin: 5px;" width="281" /></a></center><br />
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Cycling at the Hauptalle<br />
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The Opera House<br />
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<br /></div>oadnanxtremehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06409562202169384327noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5170518638921608448.post-82204735880873898442012-04-30T14:56:00.001+08:002012-04-30T17:59:31.850+08:00Vienna on the Danube<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
It is really difficult to imagine being in three countries in three days. Yes, but it is true . We left Mosonmagyarovar in Hungary on the 26th and entered Slovakia on the same day and was in Bratislava till the 28th when we left for Austria. . The Austrian border is only about 20 kilometers from Bratislava , so we were in Austria also on the 28th. Cycling from Bratislava towards Vienna was indeed a great experience as the whole journey of seventy odd kilometers were done on the cycling trail except for two to three kilometers where we had to use the normal roads when passing through the villages. I just can't help wondering why our authorities in Malaysia cannot do the same thing. It's commonsense, if you provide the facilities , people will use them. Don't give excuses such as our weather is not suitable because it is too hot, because people in these countries that I go through cycle in summer, autumn, winter and spring. Along these cycling trails I see families, old men and women fat and thin, young boys and girls, competitive riders all out enjoying themselves. Need I say that cycling is a healthy activity.<br />
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We entered Austria without realising it as the usual Immigration formalities are no longer required. The border posts have been dismantled and what is in its place is just a board that says that you are now leaving Slovakia and entering Austria. No stamping of the passports are required anymore, and whether you drive, cycle or walk, you just go through without stopping. It is wonderful, really. About 20 kilometers after leaving Bratislava we met a German cyclist also riding towards Vienna and after exchanging stories decided to look for a place to camp. We found a nice secluded place and joined forces to camp. We collected enough water for our cooking and how glad I was that we could finally camp, for free. We had earlier inquired from a local guy and he said that camping in that locality is not forbidden. Daniel had been glad to meet us as he had been riding alone for several weeks and as we shared similar interests he was only too happy to join us. <br />
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The next morning we broke camp and cycled together to Vienna. Much of the cycling trail was along the Danube and about 10 kilometers before Vienna we came across the stretch by the river where people were sunbathing in the nude . Well, while it is ok to see young people with good figures baring all, I find it disgusting to see old men and women with sagging boobs and bellies also going about naked. We cycled along the Danube till we reached Vienna and with Daniel's help we were able to find a place at a hostel in the city before we parted ways. Vienna is very expensive so we need to move on and perhaps find cheaper places or camp (illegally). Shhhhhh. <br />
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Leaving Bratislava<br />
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River cruise on the Danube<br />
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Tourists love these<br />
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The Castle<br />
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The Raddison Hotel in Bratislava<br />
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The Hotel at night<br />
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Very famous person obviously<br />
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The Danube as seen along the cycling trail to Vienna<br />
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Wide cycling trail parallel to the highway<br />
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Cycling with Daniel towards Vienna<br />
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The leaves can be eaten<br />
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Camping in the wild<br />
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Signposts along the trails<br />
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Huge parks in Vienna for recreation<br />
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In the park<br />
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Beautiful Vienna<br />
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Walking or cycling up to the bridge<br />
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The Park in Vienna<br />
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Thanks for the memories, Daniel</div>oadnanxtremehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06409562202169384327noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5170518638921608448.post-32664294809154113322012-04-28T15:28:00.001+08:002012-04-28T21:24:15.051+08:00Another day another country<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
We left Mosonmagyarovar on a perfect day for cycling, with the sun shining brightly and not far away was another country, Slovakia. Hungary had been a memorable experience and from Slovakia onwards we won't need to draw money in the local currency anymore until we get to England. The Euros would be the currency used in all the countries making all transactions less complicated . The road leading out to the border was straightforward and most of the way we were on a beautiful cycling lane. It was less than 20 kilometers to the border and to our surprise when we reached the border there was no necessity go through any immigration procedures as there were no officials from Hungary or Slovakia manning the posts. All travellers just pass through without any inspection or stamping of passports . Strange as it may seem but this is my first experience - so called travel free policy. I don't usually keep track of distances cycled from place to place and after cycling from about 30 kilometers and on a perfect cycling lane along the Danube again we arrived in Bratislava, the capital of Slovakia. <br />
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Bratislava is smaller than Budapest but similar in some ways in that it is also not crowded and busy . Three local cyclists cycled with us to show the way to the hostel that we were looking for and to our pleasant surprise we also met a young Malaysian also checking in into the hostel. Ng Jia Yi ,24 from Penang is a student in Paris and here for visit . It 's really nice to meet a Malaysian after months of travelling and share some familiar tales. I have not seen much of Bratislava yet so just just a little peek for you. There'll be more later.<br />
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- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad<br />
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Riding out of Mosonmagyarovar<br />
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Sharing information with other cyclists along the way<br />
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Bratislava for the tourists<br />
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With Malaysian, Ng Jia Yi<br />
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<center><a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/111310573113267272447/KLLONDONCYCLINGMARATHON2011?authkey=Gv1sRgCLqj8smeyb-MxQE#5736349568856493586"><img border="0" height="210" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-59BmKraqPcw/T5ubilcoDhI/AAAAAAAABHo/oPwBDGzneMU/s288/11.jpg" style="margin: 5px;" width="281" /></a></center><br />
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<br /></div>oadnanxtremehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06409562202169384327noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5170518638921608448.post-8019041145507806712012-04-26T14:30:00.001+08:002012-04-26T15:35:04.343+08:00Come Ride With Me<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Today, 25th April marks the completion of seven months since I left Taman Jaya, in PJ and how time flies. While I miss home, my friends, my hobbies and my regular activities I must admit that I wouldn't have it any other way if given a choice . Of course there were times when things seemed hopeless or were not going the way I had expected, the irritations, the inconveniences, the hardships and the physical and mental demands were somewhat excessive but all in all going through them have been worthwhile. I would like to say that I look forward to a pleasant ride the rest of the way to my final destination, London. Considering that I shall be going through several more cities, towns and meandering about the villages' roads I have about 2,000 kilometers more to cover. As I am actually ahead of schedule, I will be able to take things easier and spending more time at places I find interesting. While the cities have their own attractions, it is the villages that give you the sense of peace and tranquility.<br />
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After leaving Budapest the ride had been rather pleasant despite the persistent headwinds on all the days. At times the headwinds were so strong that walking would have been faster. On such days to manage 40 or 50 kilometers would be an achievement. The only consolations are the light traffic and the beautiful scenery and things you encounter along the way. For this blog let me just share with you some of the lovely scenes along the way:<br />
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I am now at a town called Mosonmagyarovar about 15 kilometers from the border to Slovakia and about 40 kilometers to Bratislava, the capital of Slovakia. Originally, it was not my intention to go to Slovakia, but after looking at the map and seeing that I would only need an extra three or four days to see the country and then make my way to Vienna , it was an opportunity not to be missed. Tomorrow I'll be on my way - Goodbye Hungary, hello Slovakia.<br />
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<center><a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/111310573113267272447/KLLONDONCYCLINGMARATHON2011?authkey=Gv1sRgCLqj8smeyb-MxQE#5735590700842467522"><img border="0" height="210" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-kcRIODWDFXY/T5jpWpy_wMI/AAAAAAAABD8/Fr_DFlK8GuU/s288/3.jpg" style="margin: 5px;" width="281" /></a></center><br />
Spring Cleaning<br />
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<center><a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/111310573113267272447/KLLONDONCYCLINGMARATHON2011?authkey=Gv1sRgCLqj8smeyb-MxQE#5735590833350160722"><img border="0" height="210" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-t83SEfAzNKo/T5jpeXbSsVI/AAAAAAAABEE/Mrxm8d0K-Yw/s288/4.jpg" style="margin: 5px;" width="281" /></a></center><br />
The Lone Rider<br />
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<center><a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/111310573113267272447/KLLONDONCYCLINGMARATHON2011?authkey=Gv1sRgCLqj8smeyb-MxQE#5735590980011919714"><img border="0" height="210" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-lPbxMpEgFTI/T5jpm5yLiWI/AAAAAAAABEM/HQixd593GQ0/s288/6.jpg" style="margin: 5px;" width="281" /></a></center><br />
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<center><a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/111310573113267272447/KLLONDONCYCLINGMARATHON2011?authkey=Gv1sRgCLqj8smeyb-MxQE#5735591068851836258"><img border="0" height="210" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-jYtNO0GUlPQ/T5jpsEvRFWI/AAAAAAAABEU/iRu8Cw9VnOo/s288/7.jpg" style="margin: 5px;" width="281" /></a></center><br />
Cycling lanes everywhere<br />
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<center><a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/111310573113267272447/KLLONDONCYCLINGMARATHON2011?authkey=Gv1sRgCLqj8smeyb-MxQE#5735591227818701202"><img border="0" height="210" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-l7Emgo4uyoc/T5jp1U768ZI/AAAAAAAABEc/nmEhmeC6pGg/s288/8.jpg" style="margin: 5px;" width="281" /></a></center><br />
Terry, Sheena or Joe can tell you what they are<br />
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<center><a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/111310573113267272447/KLLONDONCYCLINGMARATHON2011?authkey=Gv1sRgCLqj8smeyb-MxQE#5735591403968787026"><img border="0" height="210" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-pkCtdYJjLoU/T5jp_lJX8lI/AAAAAAAABEk/Mf0rLMOBQn4/s288/10.jpg" style="margin: 5px;" width="281" /></a></center><br />
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A handsome building in Gyor<br />
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A nice and quiet place to spend the night<br />
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<center><a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/111310573113267272447/KLLONDONCYCLINGMARATHON2011?authkey=Gv1sRgCLqj8smeyb-MxQE#5735591752327666338"><img border="0" height="210" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-naqszm45TsI/T5jqT24mmqI/AAAAAAAABE8/RVrVXbKSgBo/s288/14.jpg" style="margin: 5px;" width="281" /></a></center><br />
No, it's not what you think<br />
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<center><a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/111310573113267272447/KLLONDONCYCLINGMARATHON2011?authkey=Gv1sRgCLqj8smeyb-MxQE#5735591869756761442"><img border="0" height="210" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-j6zR8NBRBBo/T5jqasV4ZWI/AAAAAAAABFE/j-FQ23tTrNM/s288/15.jpg" style="margin: 5px;" width="281" /></a></center><br />
Much slower than cycling<br />
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<center><a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/111310573113267272447/KLLONDONCYCLINGMARATHON2011?authkey=Gv1sRgCLqj8smeyb-MxQE#5735591969802170450"><img border="0" height="210" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-3dv47r0dyrw/T5jqghCkMFI/AAAAAAAABFM/D3XK5NoDdJ4/s288/16.jpg" style="margin: 5px;" width="281" /></a></center><br />
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Nothing but Blue Skies<br />
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<center><a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/111310573113267272447/KLLONDONCYCLINGMARATHON2011?authkey=Gv1sRgCLqj8smeyb-MxQE#5735592263598416434"><img border="0" height="281" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-ARwgTh34ZEY/T5jqxnhDIjI/AAAAAAAABFk/QQF2qjpSdiM/s288/19.jpg" style="margin: 5px;" width="210" /></a></center><br />
Peace and quiet<br />
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<center><a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/111310573113267272447/KLLONDONCYCLINGMARATHON2011?authkey=Gv1sRgCLqj8smeyb-MxQE#5735592402172264866"><img border="0" height="210" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-pcNPeqt4zGU/T5jq5rvoQaI/AAAAAAAABFs/zaeEulXzhYE/s288/5.jpg" style="margin: 5px;" width="281" /></a></center><br />
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Large areas of mustard<br />
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<center><a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/111310573113267272447/KLLONDONCYCLINGMARATHON2011?authkey=Gv1sRgCLqj8smeyb-MxQE#5735592693692534482"><img border="0" height="210" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-DSusQjPz69c/T5jrKpvejtI/AAAAAAAABF8/3pd4i7rlz8o/s288/21.jpg" style="margin: 5px;" width="281" /></a></center><br />
A convenient place to rest<br />
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<center><a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/111310573113267272447/KLLONDONCYCLINGMARATHON2011?authkey=Gv1sRgCLqj8smeyb-MxQE#5735592839370876962"><img border="0" height="210" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-dqcg6XOi4zw/T5jrTIb5qCI/AAAAAAAABGE/h8fa7Bm9Y18/s288/23.jpg" style="margin: 5px;" width="281" /></a></center><br />
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Big and small Tesco, Tesco everywhere<br />
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No traffic snarl in this town</div>oadnanxtremehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06409562202169384327noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5170518638921608448.post-9334910876213104062012-04-24T06:48:00.001+08:002012-04-25T23:58:22.128+08:00Following the Danube<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Before I embarked on this cycling adventure, my knowledge and association with the Danube was limited to the famous tune the' Blue Danube Waltz ' by the Austrian composer Johann Strauss and those who grew up in the fifties, sixties and before and enjoy ballroom dancing would have enjoyed dancing to the tune time and time again. In Budapest I was truly enchanted by the Danube and leaving Budapest was something that I had to do reluctantly. <br />
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We left on a Sunday morning and as we were staying on the Pest side we had to cross over to the Buda side, in order to continue our journey to the border of Austria and Slovakia. It took us quite some time to get out of Budapest as we couldn't help but make many stops taking more photographs of the river and the surroundings although we had done that already. Many people thronged the riverside doing what they like best on a Sunday morning. Many people were out with their families cycling, young couples pushing prams, tourists clicking cameras and serious marathon runners doing their long runs. It was only around noon when we finally got on to the road leading out. Cyclists are not allowed on the highways so by cycling on the other roads we actually have to do longer distances. I have no complaints as the country roads are quieter and offer more insights into the country. A few kilometers out of Budapest we had to cycle uphill for nearly an hour before we were back on level ground.<br />
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We spent the night at a well appointed (studio?) apartment in a small town, Dorog and the next morning continued our journey. Cycling along the countryside roads are actually quite pleasant with little traffic and the little towns and villages are indeed picturesque. And guess what?, we were again by the Danube but this time without the buildings and the crowd. In fact the the road from Budapest to the border of Slovakia and Austria goes along the Danube most of the way although it is not within sight all the time. For a change I did some research and what I found about the Danube is quite amazing. The Danube is the second longest river in Europe after the Volga and it passes through nine countries. Four capital cities are sited on the Danube namely Bratislava in Slovakia, Budapest in Hungary, Vienna in Austria and Belgrade in Serbia. Other than the Blue Danube Waltz, there are many other things with the Danube name : The Blue Danube Coffee House, The Blue Danube Wine, The Blue Danube Holidays, The Blue Danube Piano,The Blue Danube Violins in Vienna, Austria where they are hand - made and many more with the Danube name. And like the Mississippi it is also famous for its steamboats. For the cyclists you can check out the Danube Bike Trail also called Danube Cycle Path or Donemradweg - bicycle trail along the river. The trail is divided into four sections :<br />
1. Donemeschingen -Passau (559 kilometers)<br />
2. Passau - Vienna (340 kilometers)<br />
3. Vienna - Budapest (306)kilometers<br />
4. Budapest -Black Sea (1,670 kilometers)<br />
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I am now writing from Komarom, a town near the Danube, and from here ride towards the border of Slovakia or Austria. If we cross into Austria we will miss Slovakia, so your guess is right. We will first go to Slovakia and from there (Bratislava) ride to Vienna. Well, I am looking forward to seeing the Danube again in Bratislava and Vienna.<br />
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<center><a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/111310573113267272447/KLLONDONCYCLINGMARATHON2011?authkey=Gv1sRgCLqj8smeyb-MxQE#5734731224251889266"><img border="0" height="210" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-CIJG-1m2e2w/T5Xbqh_f9nI/AAAAAAAABCc/YKGeucblU3A/s288/3.jpg" style="margin: 5px;" width="281" /></a></center><br />
The dandelions as described by Terry<br />
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<center><a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/111310573113267272447/KLLONDONCYCLINGMARATHON2011?authkey=Gv1sRgCLqj8smeyb-MxQE#5734731277994649026"><img border="0" height="210" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-Zs52OkqFjIQ/T5XbtqMxZcI/AAAAAAAABCk/xWOuVXR9m0Y/s288/4.jpg" style="margin: 5px;" width="281" /></a></center><br />
Cycling out of Budapest on a Sunday morning<br />
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Leaving Budapest<br />
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Thanks for the memories<br />
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<center><a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/111310573113267272447/KLLONDONCYCLINGMARATHON2011?authkey=Gv1sRgCLqj8smeyb-MxQE#5734731433261114546"><img border="0" height="210" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-QnuydFT9Yi8/T5Xb2snLpLI/AAAAAAAABC8/UQp8HhP4OLA/s288/7.jpg" style="margin: 5px;" width="281" /></a></center><br />
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<center><a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/111310573113267272447/KLLONDONCYCLINGMARATHON2011?authkey=Gv1sRgCLqj8smeyb-MxQE#5734731483363536578"><img border="0" height="210" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-3KOsa-syhkE/T5Xb5nQh7sI/AAAAAAAABDE/a_Kk2J44PWo/s288/8.jpg" style="margin: 5px;" width="281" /></a></center><br />
The Danube without the concrete<br />
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<center><a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/111310573113267272447/KLLONDONCYCLINGMARATHON2011?authkey=Gv1sRgCLqj8smeyb-MxQE#5734731538363582322"><img border="0" height="210" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-NHlGVhiyRIc/T5Xb80JkB3I/AAAAAAAABDM/RtMAiGzI9ho/s288/10.jpg" style="margin: 5px;" width="281" /></a></center><br />
The loneliness of a long distance cyclist<br />
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<center><a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/111310573113267272447/KLLONDONCYCLINGMARATHON2011?authkey=Gv1sRgCLqj8smeyb-MxQE#5734731601478253602"><img border="0" height="210" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-yAKgGlPwMx4/T5XcAfRRfCI/AAAAAAAABDU/Aw290Xk6NE4/s288/11.jpg" style="margin: 5px;" width="281" /></a></center><br />
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She is not going anywhere<br />
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<center><a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/111310573113267272447/KLLONDONCYCLINGMARATHON2011?authkey=Gv1sRgCLqj8smeyb-MxQE#5734731655184583250"><img border="0" height="210" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-C8yIpRTa10k/T5XcDnV3ClI/AAAAAAAABDc/XDRTtvsHaD4/s288/12.jpg" style="margin: 5px;" width="281" /></a></center><br />
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<center><a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/111310573113267272447/KLLONDONCYCLINGMARATHON2011?authkey=Gv1sRgCLqj8smeyb-MxQE#5734731710546475938"><img border="0" height="210" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-9kn48kZ_I9Q/T5XcG1lKe6I/AAAAAAAABDk/lJjggWe2pq4/s288/14.jpg" style="margin: 5px;" width="281" /></a></center><br />
Countryside scene<br />
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<center><a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/111310573113267272447/KLLONDONCYCLINGMARATHON2011?authkey=Gv1sRgCLqj8smeyb-MxQE#5734731768473462850"><img border="0" height="210" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-TEJzM_Xlwz0/T5XcKNYCKEI/AAAAAAAABDs/e6cm8Tf5g_Y/s288/15.jpg" style="margin: 5px;" width="281" /></a></center><br />
Walking/cycling lane<br />
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<br /></div>oadnanxtremehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06409562202169384327noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5170518638921608448.post-41907087803932032972012-04-22T07:57:00.001+08:002012-04-22T12:47:04.505+08:00Charmed by Budapest<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
I did not do any research on the places or cities that I have passed through during my journey and besides those places that I have visited before like Bangkok and Vientiane , I always look forward to know the cities first hand through being physically there and feeling the pulse of it. Every city has its own characteristic that it is well known for, for instance, its people ; history; the arts ; iconic structures ; location ; etc. As for me, I think Budapest offers a wide variety of things for all visitors . I am truly impressed with the architecture and to think that there are hundreds of buildings with its own individual intricate designs incorporated into it simply blows my mind away. And to think that some of these buildings are several hundred years old, really makes me feel rather embarrassed to think of our Sultan Abdul Samad building or the KL Railway Station as comparison. We did not take any of the tour packages like the Hop On, Hop Off or the Danube River Cruise but for us to be able to cycle and see some of the sights is enough to cherish the wonderful memories.<br />
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Both sides of the river ( Buda and Pest ) are crowded with tourists and the beauty of it is that most of these people get around on foot or cycle. I also see runners (male and female, young and old) running along the river probably training for a marathon or just running to keep fit and enjoying the beautiful surrounding at the same time. Talking about marathons, tomorrow ( today by the time you read this) Sunday 22nd April is the London Marathon and how nice it would be if I were to be able to run it. <br />
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Budapest is a bicycle- friendly (in my opinion) city . I see many people cycling around obviously not for recreation but for conveyance to work or travel from place to place. Besides those with multiple gears many are of the basic utility type bicycles. There are facilities for bicycle parking all over the city and the city has many outlets renting out bicycles for tourists and also provide cycling tours .<br />
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An interesting fact that I discovered is that the population of Budapest has declined in the last couple of years. For a city that is widespread without soaring sky scrappers, Budapest do not have traffic jams any time of the day and everyone seems to observe traffic rules. Pedestrians cross when the lights turn green at zebra crossings and motorists likewise stop for the pedestrians at zebra crossings where there are no lights. <br />
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One reason why I am spending more days here is because in Budapest there are many food outlets serving food that we enjoyed like those found in Turkey . Around the place we are staying, are a number of such outlets,serving doner kebabs, chicken, turkey or beef dishes plus rice. There are also outlets serving Lebanese and Bangla food . I don't know if I can get the same kind of food as we move on.<br />
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There is also a vibrant nightlife in Budapest. The tourist enclaves are dotted with cafes and bars that spill over to the side - walks and some patrons are seen standing around outside the bars having their drinks as the seats inside are all taken. Like in most cities, the Hard Rock Cafe never fail to the attract the faithful regulars. Other attractions would be the topless bars and the Sex Shop. Of course I did not patronise any of these places while I was here, not because I am a saint but the truth is I just can't afford them and I am not on a pleasure trip. Maybe next time eh!. There are also the operas , the theatres , and musical performances which some of you would enjoy here. To end my description of Budapest, perhaps I should also mention that with the warmer weather, the young ladies and girls of Budapest are going back to donning the mini skirts. I don't know if this is something new, or simply the revival of the trend of the seventies. Sorry, but I can't help but notice such things.<br />
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We are moving on in the morning and hope to cover at least 60 kilometers or thereabout if we can find accommodation. <br />
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<center><a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/111310573113267272447/KLLONDONCYCLINGMARATHON2011?authkey=Gv1sRgCLqj8smeyb-MxQE#5734006779985311058"><img border="0" height="281" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-lMc874Vw43g/T5NIyUy0tVI/AAAAAAAABAc/YxQzqKJSRi8/s288/1.jpg" style="margin: 5px;" width="210" /></a></center><br />
Statues, a common sight in Budapest<br />
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A splendid building on the Buda side of the Danube<br />
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<center><a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/111310573113267272447/KLLONDONCYCLINGMARATHON2011?authkey=Gv1sRgCLqj8smeyb-MxQE#5734006876082962674"><img border="0" height="210" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-5x1Pjo75kJI/T5NI36ySgPI/AAAAAAAABAs/uVp7cOe54tw/s288/4.jpg" style="margin: 5px;" width="281" /></a></center><br />
A rival to the Houses Of Parliament in London on the<br />
Pest side of the Danube<br />
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<center><a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/111310573113267272447/KLLONDONCYCLINGMARATHON2011?authkey=Gv1sRgCLqj8smeyb-MxQE#5734006924536390178"><img border="0" height="210" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-i4qP7eq3t2o/T5NI6vSfIiI/AAAAAAAABA0/gC81uR7jdso/s288/5.jpg" style="margin: 5px;" width="281" /></a></center><br />
Cycling on one of the bridges over the Danube<br />
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A church on Pest side<br />
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<center><a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/111310573113267272447/KLLONDONCYCLINGMARATHON2011?authkey=Gv1sRgCLqj8smeyb-MxQE#5734007016571872546"><img border="0" height="210" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-0jEVLalsDUI/T5NJAGJdJSI/AAAAAAAABBE/mjbuhrJAGbI/s288/7.jpg" style="margin: 5px;" width="281" /></a></center><br />
Something like the Temples of the limestone hills<br />
near Ipoh<br />
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The BLUE Danube<br />
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One of the Bridges<br />
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This is not a mosque<br />
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Saturday night in Budapest<br />
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The stretched Lincoln Continental with the bridge in<br />
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The Hard Rock Cafe never fail to attract the crowd<br />
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A grim reminder<br />
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<center><a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/111310573113267272447/KLLONDONCYCLINGMARATHON2011?authkey=Gv1sRgCLqj8smeyb-MxQE#5734007446842982338"><img border="0" height="281" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-gPJRXc0Dvks/T5NJZJCFP8I/AAAAAAAABCM/qDhlN-C-n60/s288/18.jpg" style="margin: 5px;" width="210" /></a></center><br />
Such Elaborate Doorways are common<br />
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Wish you were here</div>oadnanxtremehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06409562202169384327noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5170518638921608448.post-77155751008826030312012-04-21T00:02:00.001+08:002012-04-21T00:02:36.557+08:00From Budapest With Love<br /><br /><center><a href='https://picasaweb.google.com/111310573113267272447/KLLONDONCYCLINGMARATHON2011?authkey=Gv1sRgCLqj8smeyb-MxQE#5733512846286167010'><img src='https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-UkSS6nhDmYg/T5GHjmYGm-I/AAAAAAAAA90/oDQRS7rT_4w/s288/1.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='https://picasaweb.google.com/111310573113267272447/KLLONDONCYCLINGMARATHON2011?authkey=Gv1sRgCLqj8smeyb-MxQE#5733512938816885778'><img src='https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-k-218MiMebk/T5GHo_FJVBI/AAAAAAAAA98/zT7ORgK-5Dk/s288/3.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a 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width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='https://picasaweb.google.com/111310573113267272447/KLLONDONCYCLINGMARATHON2011?authkey=Gv1sRgCLqj8smeyb-MxQE#5733513494458214754'><img src='https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-K0DklXnzx9A/T5GIJVAXKWI/AAAAAAAAA_M/5wj3dhhLWCo/s288/15.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='https://picasaweb.google.com/111310573113267272447/KLLONDONCYCLINGMARATHON2011?authkey=Gv1sRgCLqj8smeyb-MxQE#5733513549941808962'><img src='https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-_jF2V9MyB24/T5GIMjsrn0I/AAAAAAAAA_U/83T0jBYDXqU/s288/16.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='https://picasaweb.google.com/111310573113267272447/KLLONDONCYCLINGMARATHON2011?authkey=Gv1sRgCLqj8smeyb-MxQE#5733513605978194738'><img src='https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-82valI8KC7g/T5GIP0czAzI/AAAAAAAAA_c/qNNMgu6f8aw/s288/17.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='https://picasaweb.google.com/111310573113267272447/KLLONDONCYCLINGMARATHON2011?authkey=Gv1sRgCLqj8smeyb-MxQE#5733513663576163138'><img src='https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-rr1kqF7-o20/T5GITLBOQ0I/AAAAAAAAA_k/nu2tTXp_LWs/s288/18.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='https://picasaweb.google.com/111310573113267272447/KLLONDONCYCLINGMARATHON2011?authkey=Gv1sRgCLqj8smeyb-MxQE#5733513713661117234'><img src='https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-UR0Pfkg9Oxo/T5GIWFmaAzI/AAAAAAAAA_s/yUaoBTyNCRg/s288/19.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='https://picasaweb.google.com/111310573113267272447/KLLONDONCYCLINGMARATHON2011?authkey=Gv1sRgCLqj8smeyb-MxQE#5733513766958851586'><img src='https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-L66uxIPZYkY/T5GIZMJk5gI/AAAAAAAAA_0/2aAynIAC7Mg/s288/20.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='https://picasaweb.google.com/111310573113267272447/KLLONDONCYCLINGMARATHON2011?authkey=Gv1sRgCLqj8smeyb-MxQE#5733513812447097250'><img src='https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-3dfanYNmIxo/T5GIb1m0caI/AAAAAAAAA_8/5Npd9ukuftY/s288/21.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='https://picasaweb.google.com/111310573113267272447/KLLONDONCYCLINGMARATHON2011?authkey=Gv1sRgCLqj8smeyb-MxQE#5733513891620712770'><img src='https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-1UgJSRm72ng/T5GIgcjR8UI/AAAAAAAABAE/xjxDvP6wF-Y/s288/22.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='https://picasaweb.google.com/111310573113267272447/KLLONDONCYCLINGMARATHON2011?authkey=Gv1sRgCLqj8smeyb-MxQE#5733513941519816626'><img src='https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-PHsp4gJ8iwA/T5GIjWcJ17I/AAAAAAAABAM/srEH1IIhVYc/s288/23.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='https://picasaweb.google.com/111310573113267272447/KLLONDONCYCLINGMARATHON2011?authkey=Gv1sRgCLqj8smeyb-MxQE#5733513993772778914'><img src='https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-SMbMHmSpC3E/T5GImZGOxaI/AAAAAAAABAU/PJxLv2QVUq4/s288/24.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />oadnanxtremehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06409562202169384327noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5170518638921608448.post-3900626929921913832012-04-19T15:57:00.001+08:002012-04-19T22:30:29.800+08:00April Love - and Showers<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
We had breakfast and thanked George and his staff for the wonderful time we had in Berettjyoufalu and when it was time to leave, the farewell was rather emotional with handshakes and hugs and knowing that we are not likely to meet again, was indeed sad but then we had to move on. Thanks to the modern communication facilities we can still keep in touch through email,etc. The sky was overcast when we left and after about an hour it started to drizzle. We did not stop as the drizzle was very light and did not affect our cycling or wet our clothes. In fact it was rather pleasant because we could pedal faster without breaking into sweat as it was cool and refreshing. I went into 'sweat control' mode. My regular trekking 'kaki' Goon Heng Kai who had gone on many trekking adventures with me in Malaysia and the Himalayas would understand what it means. 'Sweat control' mode is a condition whereby you indulge in continuous physical activity attaining productivity without sweating. In Malaysia it is rather difficult to achieve it because of the humidity where you can sweat even while just sitting under the fan.But in cold conditions you can achieve that after some practice. Try it some time.<br />
The drizzle continued throughout the morning and the road conditions were good but after going about 60 km and when the drizzle had stopped I was ready to call it a day . We came across a small town after about 50 kilometers but after that, we could not find any place to stop, although there were signs indicating names of places along the highway. The highway signs were rather misleading. We actually had to turn away from the highway to reach these towns. As a result we pedalled on and on and only found a motel after covering almost 100 kilometers. By then we were tired and hungry. <br />
The following morning we left along the same road and after covering some 40 kilometers we decided to try moving away from the highway and experience life in the rural towns. We reached Cagled some 70 kilometers from Budapest and found that rural towns in Hungary are indeed pleasant places. The houses, like in Berettjyoufalu, are individual structures with a neat garden (lawn?). Many people move about using bicycles and cycling lanes are everywhere. By now you would have realised I keep highlighting this facility and I hope our city fathers would act accordingly to provide such facility in our towns and cities and encourage cycling. People would be more healthy and the air we breathe would be much cleaner.<br />
Cycling along rural roads in Hungary we passed many charming towns, farms, fruit orchards and vineyards and although it is not the fruit season, the orchards are in bloom with flowers. I believe those with white flowers are apple trees and the vineyards are nothing more than rows and rows of stumps without any sign of life. In a few months the scenery would change again, with fruits and grapes ready for picking. The scenery is certainly beautiful and different from that we usually see in Malaysia. A pleasant change for me and a new experience for Aede.<br />
April is noted for its showers and the appearance of colours and vibrant activities after the drab and absence of cheerful faces during the cold winter. April (spring) also see the appearance of adolescent girls come to bloom - showing some curves that were not there a year before. April is also a month for love as my contemporaries would remember the song by Pat Boone - : - 'sometimes an April day would suddenly bring showers ; rain to grow the flowers, for her first bouquet. And April Love will slip right through your fingers, so if she's the one , don't let her run away'. I sang the song at the school variety concert more than 50 years ago and after that I became quite popular among the girls , he,he!<br />
Yes, I am also in love. - with my bicycle that is. - ( what did you expect ? ). The bicycle has taken me to ten countries all these months and I am now getting attached to it. We had some problems along the way but managed to overcome them and I am confident that we can achieve what we set out to do, 'InsyaAllah'. We are now not very far from our goal and I also need your continued support. <br />
We are now in Budapest, the capital of Hungary. How we found this place is also an interesting story. We were riding our bicycles into the city. On entering the city and after asking some people for directions, we stopped at a junction waiting for the lights to turn green, when a lady suspecting that we were foreigners looking for accommodation asked us that question. Again as fate would have it, she actually runs a budget hostel nearby for travellers and accompanied us to her place. Piroska's (that's her name) Hostel is actually an apartment unit that she had turned into a hostel and it suited our needs perfectly. I have not seen much of Budapest yet, but my first impression of it is very positive. The city has the 'Old World' charm attraction. Judging the place from where we are staying now, we might spend a few days here before moving on. <br />
<a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/111310573113267272447/KLLONDONCYCLINGMARATHON2011?authkey=Gv1sRgCLqj8smeyb-MxQE#5733017457530633746"><img border="0" height="187" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-LEIcf5FvbNA/T4_FALc5_hI/AAAAAAAAA78/ybqoKI7aAYg/s288/1.jpg" style="margin: 5px;" width="281" /></a><br />
An emotional farewell with George<br />
<a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/111310573113267272447/KLLONDONCYCLINGMARATHON2011?authkey=Gv1sRgCLqj8smeyb-MxQE#5733017504343210802"><img border="0" height="210" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-nwIEFcw3lB4/T4_FC515OzI/AAAAAAAAA8E/kI4ynmIIv3Y/s288/6.jpg" style="margin: 5px;" width="281" /></a><br />
Can you spot the Malaysian Flag? <br />
<a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/111310573113267272447/KLLONDONCYCLINGMARATHON2011?authkey=Gv1sRgCLqj8smeyb-MxQE#5733017554267622626"><img border="0" height="210" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-WhfTm1OzN_I/T4_FFz0zTOI/AAAAAAAAA8M/ySvVBibmtHE/s288/3.jpg" style="margin: 5px;" width="281" /></a><br />
At a railway crossing<br />
<a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/111310573113267272447/KLLONDONCYCLINGMARATHON2011?authkey=Gv1sRgCLqj8smeyb-MxQE#5733017596218094434"><img border="0" height="210" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-2ck-0BEsqTc/T4_FIQGks2I/AAAAAAAAA8U/M-IoxHD5w4k/s288/4.jpg" style="margin: 5px;" width="281" /></a><br />
Rows and rows of stumps.<br />
<a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/111310573113267272447/KLLONDONCYCLINGMARATHON2011?authkey=Gv1sRgCLqj8smeyb-MxQE#5733017681080445666"><img border="0" height="210" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-FaZmxdPvTnY/T4_FNMPVauI/AAAAAAAAA8c/vBRAt4kMENs/s288/5.jpg" style="margin: 5px;" width="281" /></a><br />
What a coincidence - Daniel's house<br />
number in Prejmer is 591 and George's<br />
van number is also 591<br />
<a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/111310573113267272447/KLLONDONCYCLINGMARATHON2011?authkey=Gv1sRgCLqj8smeyb-MxQE#5733017729604198322"><img border="0" height="210" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Erj3hlgpKDc/T4_FQBATH7I/AAAAAAAAA8k/hs1TGLOrKGU/s288/7.jpg" style="margin: 5px;" width="281" /></a><br />
These wayside flowers grow wild everywhere<br />
<a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/111310573113267272447/KLLONDONCYCLINGMARATHON2011?authkey=Gv1sRgCLqj8smeyb-MxQE#5733017773673654386"><img border="0" height="281" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-E18gFii0vjQ/T4_FSlLRqHI/AAAAAAAAA8s/edj5Ir_aYO8/s288/8.jpg" style="margin: 5px;" width="210" /></a><br />
Hungarians are warm.<br />
Mother and daughter team<br />
who run the hotel and restaurant<br />
In Monor, 35 kilometers from Budapest<br />
<a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/111310573113267272447/KLLONDONCYCLINGMARATHON2011?authkey=Gv1sRgCLqj8smeyb-MxQE#5733017818592733938"><img border="0" height="187" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-VKYODKWtLWk/T4_FVMg0avI/AAAAAAAAA80/UvG7jegoMyw/s288/10.jpg" style="margin: 5px;" width="281" /></a><br />
Apple trees?<br />
<a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/111310573113267272447/KLLONDONCYCLINGMARATHON2011?authkey=Gv1sRgCLqj8smeyb-MxQE#5733017859222628082"><img border="0" height="187" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-omfQlLmEpZc/T4_FXj3vZvI/AAAAAAAAA88/m92DNEJkkw4/s288/11.jpg" style="margin: 5px;" width="281" /></a><br />
Vineyards - sans vines<br />
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<div class="blogpress_location">
Location:<a href="http://maps.google.com/maps?q=Budapest,%20Hungary.&z=10">Budapest, Hungary.</a></div>
</div>oadnanxtremehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06409562202169384327noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5170518638921608448.post-16699088257407223122012-04-15T14:12:00.001+08:002012-04-15T14:57:47.954+08:00A Hungarian Rhapsody<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
We left Oradea without seeing much of the city as we could not find a cheap place to stay. We paid 40Euros in a 3star hotel without breakfast for a night's stay and spent most of the time in the room for a much needed rest. In the morning we headed to the border about 15 kilometers away and after Immigration formalities that took only about ten minutes we were in Hungary. After about 30 kilometers on a generally flat road flanked by farmlands, we reached Berettyoujfalu, the first town after the border and decided to stay the night there to get the feel of country before moving on towards Budapest. We bargained for a discount at the hotel ( Molo Panzio and Restaurant ) along the highway and after drawing cash at a Tesco outlet nearby we headed back to the hotel and was pleasantly surprised when the owner of the hotel, George, greeted us with a further discount . What was originally quoted as 45 Euros for a night George reduced it to 25 Euros, with breakfast thrown in. A very good start indeed in Hungary, I must admit. <br />
The next morning we packed, ready to leave after breakfast but after breakfast it started to rain. We decided to stay on another day at the same rate quoted by George. On the third day, again we packed ready to leave after breakfast, but as fate would have it rained again, and George who came in after we had our breakfast offered us another night's stay FOC. How about that ??!! and to add icing to the cake George also invited us for a free lunch at the hotel restaurant later in the day. We had a sumptuous lunch with George and after lunch he showed us around the place including another hotel and restaurant that he owns a kilometer away.<br />
Berettyoujfalu is a quaint little town in a neat setting and the houses are mostly single- storey buildings with its own little garden. Many people use the bicycle to move around and what is most noticeable here are the numerous sports facilities available. There are facilities for ice- hockey, soccer pitches both grass and artificial turf, gymnasiums, swimming pools, a hot spring pool, etc. Apparently the town had also produced an Olympic champion in fencing and sportsmen who excel in other sports. While stopping at a gymnasium we were introduced to a burly young man, Nobert, who is the under 18 bench - press champion.<br />
As I write this blog we are still in Berettyoujfalu hoping to leave in the morning but who knows what lies ahead. Ege'szse'g - that's ' cheers ' in Hungarian.<br />
<a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/111310573113267272447/KLLONDONCYCLINGMARATHON2011?authkey=Gv1sRgCLqj8smeyb-MxQE#5731505110942622898"><img border="0" height="210" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-jp7XVYIazm0/T4pliBYSJLI/AAAAAAAAA6s/lAG2ccxawXk/s288/11.jpg" style="margin: 5px;" width="281" /></a><br />
Oradea, Romania<br />
<a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/111310573113267272447/KLLONDONCYCLINGMARATHON2011?authkey=Gv1sRgCLqj8smeyb-MxQE#5731505496019397634"><img border="0" height="210" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-DAoqMjbH_9s/T4pl4b5vbAI/AAAAAAAAA68/jyJQ9QeOhW4/s288/1.jpg" style="margin: 5px;" width="281" /></a><br />
Hungary, here we come<br />
<a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/111310573113267272447/KLLONDONCYCLINGMARATHON2011?authkey=Gv1sRgCLqj8smeyb-MxQE#5731505543536928866"><img border="0" height="210" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-j__cwKWEjoA/T4pl7M6zaGI/AAAAAAAAA7E/FQnBTOQO9gM/s288/3.jpg" style="margin: 5px;" width="281" /></a><br />
Hungary, 10th country on the list<br />
<a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/111310573113267272447/KLLONDONCYCLINGMARATHON2011?authkey=Gv1sRgCLqj8smeyb-MxQE#5731505792437073682"><img border="0" height="210" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-q5kNDRUJkvU/T4pmJsJONxI/AAAAAAAAA7M/xJR6UBZM9Dk/s288/4.jpg" style="margin: 5px;" width="281" /></a><br />
Breakfast at George's hotel<br />
<a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/111310573113267272447/KLLONDONCYCLINGMARATHON2011?authkey=Gv1sRgCLqj8smeyb-MxQE#5731505849203493202"><img border="0" height="210" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-MlfwQZfeQg0/T4pmM_nZCVI/AAAAAAAAA7U/2IZZvsYZH0k/s288/5.jpg" style="margin: 5px;" width="281" /></a><br />
From left: George, his brother Johnny, and<br />
the Belgian couple who offered their place<br />
when we get to Belgium.<br />
<a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/111310573113267272447/KLLONDONCYCLINGMARATHON2011?authkey=Gv1sRgCLqj8smeyb-MxQE#5731506122402744402"><img border="0" height="210" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-k8YdczmLj-I/T4pmc5XKyFI/AAAAAAAAA7c/BD0LZk08z_I/s288/6.jpg" style="margin: 5px;" width="281" /></a><br />
With Nobert the bench press champion<br />
<a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/111310573113267272447/KLLONDONCYCLINGMARATHON2011?authkey=Gv1sRgCLqj8smeyb-MxQE#5731506307702564194"><img border="0" height="210" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-ODmX-66Q8AM/T4pmnrqFpWI/AAAAAAAAA7k/kxFFSXI--j8/s288/7.jpg" style="margin: 5px;" width="281" /></a><br />
The houses in Berettyoujfalu, spring is here<br />
to stay<br />
<a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/111310573113267272447/KLLONDONCYCLINGMARATHON2011?authkey=Gv1sRgCLqj8smeyb-MxQE#5731506367704209810"><img border="0" height="210" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-m36xfYH6rIo/T4pmrLLmGZI/AAAAAAAAA7s/-bhCN2rPlGc/s288/8.jpg" style="margin: 5px;" width="281" /></a><br />
With George and his wife<br />
<a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/111310573113267272447/KLLONDONCYCLINGMARATHON2011?authkey=Gv1sRgCLqj8smeyb-MxQE#5731506423250022498"><img border="0" height="210" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-4Em3XHrkioQ/T4pmuaGv8GI/AAAAAAAAA70/TH7Zir29FQ0/s288/10.jpg" style="margin: 5px;" width="281" /></a><br />
George's other restaurant<br />
<br />
<div class="blogpress_location">
Location:<a href="http://maps.google.com/maps?q=Berettyoujfalu,%20Hungary&z=10">Berettyoujfalu, Hungary</a></div>
</div>oadnanxtremehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06409562202169384327noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5170518638921608448.post-71002163568758408412012-04-11T22:57:00.001+08:002012-04-12T07:05:24.777+08:00Love at Second Bite - In Dracula Country,Prejmer, Romania.<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<br />
We left Bucharest heading towards Brasov hoping to do it in three days, but the weather had other plans for us. The weatherman had forecasted some rain for the day and when we left the sky was overcast and gloomy but we rode out of Bucharest anyway. The headwind was moderate and we managed quite well until after about thirty kilometers when it started to rain. Luckily we managed to find shelter along the side of the road. The rain was not heavy but it came on and off slowing us down a great deal. We only managed about 60 kilometers for the day and had to stop for the night at Ploiesti. <br />
When we left Ploiesti the next day we were again slowed down , and this time by the strong headwind blowing against us for most of the day. The wind was so strong that we only managed to cover only five or six kilometers per hour, walking speed. The wind speed must have been at least 40 kph. That brought my memory back to the time when I was doing the trek in Nepal about seven years ago when we had to go through similar conditions somewhere on the plains approaching Jomsom on what is known as the Annapurna Circuit trek. The area is an high altitude ( about 4,000 meters ) sandy plain where the the phenomena of very strong winds happen everyday around two in the afternoon and last for about two hours. As such, trekkers going through that region are advised to avoid going through the area at that time . My group started out late that day and had to go through the strong winds at that time and believe you me, the winds were so strong that it caused a sandstorm where the visibility was almost nil with the sand being blown through the air. I still remember the guy in front of me who had his hat blown off and within seconds it disappeared out of sight.<br />
We spent the night at a motel along the highway after covering only about 40 kilometers and the following day we tackled the Transylvania (highlands) region. The road winding up the highlands is very well constructed as the slopes going up are very gentle and pass through quaint little villages and towns so much so that you are actually going up as high as Fraser's Hill without realising it. After reaching the top you the just roll down for about 10 kilometers and a further 10 kilometers takes you to Brasov.<br />
From Brasov we cycled to Prejmer to visit a Romanian gentleman, whom we met, having breakfast with his daughter, at the motel we stayed before cycling to Brasov. He had invited us to his place in Prejmer about 15 kilometers outside Brasov and offered us his place and to show us around. Daniel Bujoreanu (53) is an incredible Romanian gentleman who lives in Prejmer after having sold his place in the 'Old City' in Brasov about twelve years ago. Among other things Daniel is a ski instructor, a paragliding instructor, a motorcycle enthusiast, who did stunts in his younger days and now Presedinte of Bull Bikers club de motociclism. When he sold his place in Brasov, his friends said he was crazy as the property was in the heart of the city and commanded a very high price that could only increase in value in time. But Daniel had other plans and bought a farm-house with enough land to grow potatoes, corn and tomatoes and other produce, raise poultry, enough place to indulge in his passion for his skills using his hands and to top it all, breathe the fresh air. He has a lovely wife, two daughters and a young son, Mihail (4) and what he has at this place now is to me the healthiest place to live that anyone could ask for. Since he bought the place, he had single-handedly added two double-storey cabins to house 10 guests and several other rooms adjoining the original farmhouse, garages for his motorcycles and cars, a workshop with power saws and tools, a chicken coop, pigeon holes, and also kennels for his dogs and rabbits.At his farm he also has a trampoline and a caravan . At one time he even reared pigs but found them to be too cute and intelligent that he didn't have the heart to have them slaughtered for the table so he gave up the idea and gave them away . Now he is happy that he is able to do the things he likes especially raising and teaching his young son in an ideal environment. His elder daughter Iulia is studying in Ireland to be a medical doctor and the younger daughter hopes to go to Italy to further her studies.<br />
Aede and I had intended to stay there for two days but on the third day when we were about to cycle out, it started to rain, forcing us to stay on and it was only after six days that we finally left Prejmer. However for the time we stayed there, it was among the most enjoyable time we had during the whole journey so far and certainly would stay in our memory forever. For Aede especially, it was an experience of a lifetime as he had never experienced life in the 'kampung' or on a farm, let alone in a foreign land. At Prejmer he experienced seeing chickens running loose around the place, collecting eggs in the morning for our breakfast, the thrill of collecting logs to feed the fireplace in the cabin, shooting at targets with an air rifle and watching Daniel teaching his four old son to ride a motorcycle (a real motorcycle but miniature in size). The boy really takes after his father and had his first tumble somersaulting over the handlebar that got us worried but he was unfazed and not affected and continued with the riding lessons. He is already competent driving his miniature 4x4 jeep.<br />
There is so much more I can write about Daniel and his family and the farm but that has to wait until I pen my travel adventures in a book, InsyaAllah. Daniel and his daughter Iulia (she is back on a vacation) showed us around the old city in Brasov when the weather was fine and like most cities in Europe they have an interesting history and goes back to medieval times or earlier. We did not visit Bran Castle (where the infamous Count Dracula is said to still guard the place) while in Brasov as the I hate having to add more to his coffers.<br />
We cycled out of Prejmer and Brasov on a glorious sunny morning and should be in Hungary in a few days. And while spring is in the air there is still snowfall and temperatures in the negatives, especially in the night. <br />
We are now in Oradea , the border town before Hungary, and should cross over in a day or two. Some trees here are in full bloom signifying spring is here to stay.<br />
<a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/111310573113267272447/KLLONDONCYCLINGMARATHON2011?authkey=Gv1sRgCLqj8smeyb-MxQE#5730155397869562562"><img border="0" height="210" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-2fxNk-kD_WI/T4WZ-YXNasI/AAAAAAAAA38/V5V1dgSd6Sc/s288/1.jpg" style="margin: 5px;" width="281" /></a><br />
- Heading towards Brasov,<br />
no mountains too high<br />
<a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/111310573113267272447/KLLONDONCYCLINGMARATHON2011?authkey=Gv1sRgCLqj8smeyb-MxQE#5730155482269356306"><img border="0" height="210" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-zqxRqRE-t_w/T4WaDSxsERI/AAAAAAAAA4E/Ht-4d1J9aUA/s288/3.jpg" style="margin: 5px;" width="281" /></a><br />
In the highlands<br />
<a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/111310573113267272447/KLLONDONCYCLINGMARATHON2011?authkey=Gv1sRgCLqj8smeyb-MxQE#5730155583104886386"><img border="0" height="210" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-DizfI8fCynM/T4WaJKawJnI/AAAAAAAAA4M/_9q31j4sa_g/s288/4.jpg" style="margin: 5px;" width="281" /></a><br />
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<a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/111310573113267272447/KLLONDONCYCLINGMARATHON2011?authkey=Gv1sRgCLqj8smeyb-MxQE#5730155785849158530"><img border="0" height="281" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-RfUSFUsuh2I/T4WaU9swO4I/AAAAAAAAA4c/KSS8NbK6bsA/s288/6.jpg" style="margin: 5px;" width="210" /></a><br />
Brasov, with the 'Black Church' in the background<br />
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Inside the walled church, each family had a room to <br />
escape from the attackers<br />
<a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/111310573113267272447/KLLONDONCYCLINGMARATHON2011?authkey=Gv1sRgCLqj8smeyb-MxQE#5730155955526281394"><img border="0" height="281" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-MZXM17fR06s/T4Wae1y7qLI/AAAAAAAAA4s/SKdaBCIcAKM/s288/8.jpg" style="margin: 5px;" width="210" /></a><br />
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A fortress to discourage invaders<br />
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Daniel feeding the chickens<br />
<a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/111310573113267272447/KLLONDONCYCLINGMARATHON2011?authkey=Gv1sRgCLqj8smeyb-MxQE#5730156352014530770"><img border="0" height="281" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-0ERnF8skIdE/T4Wa161GONI/AAAAAAAAA5E/j7B7dHhZPow/s288/12.jpg" style="margin: 5px;" width="210" /></a><br />
The narrowest street in Brasov or in <br />
the world<br />
<a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/111310573113267272447/KLLONDONCYCLINGMARATHON2011?authkey=Gv1sRgCLqj8smeyb-MxQE#5730156579417808770"><img border="0" height="210" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-3ZUxBcZ2P1k/T4WbDJ-Q34I/AAAAAAAAA5M/9HGksOPfias/s288/14.jpg" style="margin: 5px;" width="281" /></a><br />
Daniel is well prepared for the harsh winter<br />
<a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/111310573113267272447/KLLONDONCYCLINGMARATHON2011?authkey=Gv1sRgCLqj8smeyb-MxQE#5730156676977686370"><img border="0" height="210" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-xbM6DcAwN_4/T4WbI1aWd2I/AAAAAAAAA5U/or5nbPe4pz8/s288/15.jpg" style="margin: 5px;" width="281" /></a><br />
At Daniel's Farmhouse<br />
<a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/111310573113267272447/KLLONDONCYCLINGMARATHON2011?authkey=Gv1sRgCLqj8smeyb-MxQE#5730156783646182354"><img border="0" height="210" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-PM8Fe0dKF3Y/T4WbPCyGi9I/AAAAAAAAA5c/TR3LXEePhzg/s288/16.jpg" style="margin: 5px;" width="281" /></a><br />
Looks familiar?<br />
<a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/111310573113267272447/KLLONDONCYCLINGMARATHON2011?authkey=Gv1sRgCLqj8smeyb-MxQE#5730157444404842562"><img border="0" height="281" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-dnoRpNmM-7g/T4Wb1gTPkEI/AAAAAAAAA5k/Xjp0WJQIxBs/s288/17.jpg" style="margin: 5px;" width="210" /></a><br />
Planting a tree to mark my visit<br />
<a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/111310573113267272447/KLLONDONCYCLINGMARATHON2011?authkey=Gv1sRgCLqj8smeyb-MxQE#5730157541668190290"><img border="0" height="210" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-Y2btNlAbKIw/T4Wb7KooeFI/AAAAAAAAA5s/XO8Smd21H5A/s288/18.jpg" style="margin: 5px;" width="281" /></a><br />
Till we meet again</div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<center><a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/111310573113267272447/KLLONDONCYCLINGMARATHON2011?authkey=Gv1sRgCLqj8smeyb-MxQE#5730229086592831890"><img border="0" height="210" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-B306z2quccs/T4Xc_oP6EZI/AAAAAAAAA50/RrNaZobE8LU/s288/1.jpg" style="margin: 5px;" width="281" /></a></center><br />
Daniel teaching his 4 year old son to ride a motorcycle<br />
<br />
<br />
<center><a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/111310573113267272447/KLLONDONCYCLINGMARATHON2011?authkey=Gv1sRgCLqj8smeyb-MxQE#5730229195240776322"><img border="0" height="210" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-GCG2KDUmFRg/T4XdF8_mIoI/AAAAAAAAA58/VaKIouYczQE/s288/3.jpg" style="margin: 5px;" width="281" /></a></center><br />
A warm cosy cabin<br />
<br />
<br />
<center><a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/111310573113267272447/KLLONDONCYCLINGMARATHON2011?authkey=Gv1sRgCLqj8smeyb-MxQE#5730229330877190546"><img border="0" height="281" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-xguebis-4Fk/T4XdN2R1kZI/AAAAAAAAA6E/Sy-CUjmNoFQ/s288/4.jpg" style="margin: 5px;" width="210" /></a></center><br />
Mihail admiring my bike<br />
<br />
<br />
<center><a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/111310573113267272447/KLLONDONCYCLINGMARATHON2011?authkey=Gv1sRgCLqj8smeyb-MxQE#5730229415145635490"><img border="0" height="281" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/--fo-2mpKqmc/T4XdSwM__qI/AAAAAAAAA6M/iEEYm8owjbc/s288/5.jpg" style="margin: 5px;" width="210" /></a></center><br />
The grizzly farmer<br />
<br />
<br />
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The dungeon at the fortified church in Prejmer<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<center><a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/111310573113267272447/KLLONDONCYCLINGMARATHON2011?authkey=Gv1sRgCLqj8smeyb-MxQE#5730229713318122930"><img border="0" height="210" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-VUiaM7vEI30/T4XdkG-3FbI/AAAAAAAAA6c/nn5r-q6QFMs/s288/7.jpg" style="margin: 5px;" width="281" /></a></center><br />
Inside the fortified church<br />
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<br />
<br />
<br />
<center><a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/111310573113267272447/KLLONDONCYCLINGMARATHON2011?authkey=Gv1sRgCLqj8smeyb-MxQE#5730229798147058498"><img border="0" height="210" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-b4pER5cKnQE/T4XdpC_p60I/AAAAAAAAA6k/fot8fgC6h4g/s288/8.jpg" style="margin: 5px;" width="281" /></a></center><br />
Peace and tranquility at Daniel's farm</div>oadnanxtremehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06409562202169384327noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5170518638921608448.post-74341806164741539182012-03-29T16:22:00.001+08:002012-03-30T21:32:59.149+08:00Spring in Romania<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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We left Stara Zagora headed towards Ruse, the border town on the (river) Danube separating Bulgaria and Romania. The distance to Ruse is just over 200 kilometers and with normal cycling it would take two days with an overnight stop to reach it, but this time it took us three days as we had to deal with the Balkans ( the mountain range stretching across Bulgaria ) to reach it. To non cyclists it may seem easy enough like driving up to Cameron Highlands from Tapah or from Simpang Pulai to Kampung Raja. I have cycled those routes before and though it was certainly not an easy task I managed to tackle it without much difficulty. This time around however, I must confess that at several stretches I had to push the bike for up to 1 kilometer before continuing to ride again. The total weight of the loaded bike was just too much . Most of the time Aede and me were not within sight of each other because of the countless numbers of corners and bends although in actual fact we were no more than 500 meters apart. We made two overnight stops at Gabrovo and at Polski Trbesh before reaching Ruse. We reached late at both places and too tired to even bother to look around the towns.<br />
WE spent two nights in Ruse to recover our strength and also managed to see a good part of the city. We did not encounter tourists and there are no backpackers joints, so a budget hotel room is about RM100/-. At this point the Danube is about 1kilometer wide and the riverfront is quite pleasant as you can walk or cycle along the banks . For the moment most of the trees are still without leaves but it would be beautiful with greenery and flowers a month from now and right through the summer. The weather is now warmer and when the sun is out people begin to come out, without the heavy overcoats and jackets, crowding the public parks and city squares . There's certainly more colour around.<br />
The bridge joining Bulgaria and Romania is about 10 kilometers from Ruse and on the day we left Ruse the sun was up and cycling was pleasant, you could even ride in short sleeves. The total length of the bridge is about 3 kilometers while the actual span over water is about 1 kilometer. The bridge built between 1952 to 1954 has two levels, the bottom for railway train and the upper deck for motor vehicles. It is narrow and does not have a cycling lane, so for safety reasons we did not ride on it but instead pushed our bicycles using the pedestrian walkway on the side. For that we took about an hour to cross it. A few hundred meters further up is the Romanian Immigration border post and the procedure couldn't be any easier. Our passports were stamped for the entry into Romania but there was no stamp to show that we had left Bulgaria.<br />
The highway that led to Bucharest has a cycling lane so riding was pleasant but motorists drive very fast so you need to be careful not weave towards the motor lane. After about 15 kilometers on the highway we stopped at an outlet serving food and drinks for motorists and truckers and after having our drinks we asked about the cost of the dishes offered and after deciding that they were too expensive we were about to leave when the Chef called us back in and laid out a simple meal FOC. You see, the Chef, Ali ( 60, a Turkish ) heard of my cycling adventure and felt that giving us a free meal is his way of showing his admiration. The rest of the way to Bucharest was pleasant with no hills but the interesting thing was that in some places along the way there were still snow on the ground that hadn't melted although it was already spring and the temperature was around 20 degrees Celsius and the sun shining. At the height of winter we were told that the snow on the ground were a meter thick. <br />
Bucharest is a city with wide boulevards and a number of large squares and parks. There are many interesting spots for tourists to visit but as usual we only saw all those places from the outside. We did visit the most famous orthodox church in the centre of the city and the much documented Palace Of Parliament, one of the many buildings built during the rule of the dictator Nicolae Ceausescu.This structure is said to be the second largest building in the world, the largest being the Pentagon in Washington. It is also said that under the building is an underground city with a series of tunnels that can accommodate the whole population of Bucharest in time of a nuclear war. Ceausescu and his wife were tried and executed during the revolution. Not many people like to talk about Ceausescu but many will tell you that during Ceausescu's rule people have work, have a roof above their heads and food on the table. Now, many people are unemployed, without houses and food. What is evident apparently are the high rate of crime, drug menace and unemployment. What is worse they say is that the the present ruling elite are the same people who were the high ranking Communists officials under Ceausescu. Such history is familiar eh!.<br />
I consider Bucharest a bicycle-friendly city as everywhere you go the streets have cycling lanes and as the weather is now warmer the are many cyclists cycling around. The squares and parks are also crowded with children and youngsters enjoying the sunshine roller-blading or skateboarding. Many people are also out exercising, walking, jogging or just walking their pet dogs and young mothers pushing the prams .<br />
We visited two bicycle shops to have our bicycles checked and to get certain things fixed and it is during such visits that we get to learn more of the local happenings especially regarding the cycling community. There are more than twenty bicycle outlets in Bucharest ,so there is actually quite a large cycling community here. There are many types of bicycles to choose from, from the highly specialized and branded versions to the basic utility bicycle. According to Bogdan Parvu and Cristian Mihal, the managers of two different outlets that we visited some cyclists here see branded mountain bikes as a status symbol rather than for sports. Cost wise the bicycles and the spare parts here and in Malaysia are about the same. At Bogdan's outlet we were given discounts for the parts purchased and no charges for labour while at Cristian's outlet Aede was given a free gift. According to Cristian , we from Malaysia are the furthest people who have visited his outlet. He has seem many from Europe. <br />
We are told that in our journey towards Hungary we will encounter two more areas where we have to deal with the highlands, but we are also assured of some beautiful sights, so such information is indeed useful. We have not decided which way to take as we have a few options. The locals always advise us to be vary of suspicious characters we meet along the way and to be extra careful with our belongings and not to be too trusting. <br />
Laurenteu, 19, and Alexander, 20 , are the two other people that I must mention here as they spent an entire afternoon showing us around Bucharest walking with us to the various locations . Laurenteu runs a second hand store and Alexander is studying Law at the local university. Young as they are, they are familiar with singers and songs of the fifties and sixties. As we were walking in the park we hummed or sang together songs by Frank Sinatra , Dean Martin, Elvis Presley, Louis Armstrong, the Beatles, etc. Alexander also plays basketball and takes ballroom dancing. Laurentiu who is well over six feet tall is also a boxer but says that in Romania one needs to have money to move up in sports before one can be taken seriously. I consider these young people matured and cultured for their age and they know what they want in life. Laurenteu hopes to make enough money and before the end of the year go to England to try to earn a living there, not came back to Romania if things turn out well for him. As a parting gift Laurenteu gave me a pair of pants and a cap. Such is the bond we share in spite of the brief encounter. Our next stop?. We'll sleep on it and decide when we get up. Zzzzz.<br />
<a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/111310573113267272447/KLLONDONCYCLINGMARATHON2011?authkey=Gv1sRgCLqj8smeyb-MxQE#5725231014377693346"><img border="0" height="210" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-tYEg7GlcBbY/T3QbRiUIIKI/AAAAAAAAA1s/o0B10OH4q1Y/s288/1.jpg" style="margin: 5px;" width="281" /></a><br />
Ruse ,with the Blue Danube in the background<br />
<a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/111310573113267272447/KLLONDONCYCLINGMARATHON2011?authkey=Gv1sRgCLqj8smeyb-MxQE#5725231094178848578"><img border="0" height="281" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-4vLpNgaAgfI/T3QbWLmNH0I/AAAAAAAAA10/f_ccchQQcU4/s288/3.jpg" style="margin: 5px;" width="210" /></a><br />
Huge squares and statues<br />
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Before crossing the bridge into Romania<br />
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On the Bridge<br />
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On the way to Bucharest, snow at 20 celcius<br />
<a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/111310573113267272447/KLLONDONCYCLINGMARATHON2011?authkey=Gv1sRgCLqj8smeyb-MxQE#5725231304135546722"><img border="0" height="281" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-V1AX7CnQP98/T3QbiZvyF2I/AAAAAAAAA2U/cjz38aYqij8/s288/7.jpg" style="margin: 5px;" width="210" /></a><br />
Don't say you don't have a choice<br />
<a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/111310573113267272447/KLLONDONCYCLINGMARATHON2011?authkey=Gv1sRgCLqj8smeyb-MxQE#5725231340593757122"><img border="0" height="210" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-foEhxOKLj40/T3QbkhkGO8I/AAAAAAAAA2c/aw71BLRSTP4/s288/8.jpg" style="margin: 5px;" width="281" /></a><br />
With Alexander and Laurenteu at the <br />
Palace of Parliament<br />
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The Centre Of Bucharest - Km 0<br />
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With Bogdan at his shop<br />
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With Cristian<br />
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<img border="0" height="210" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-yni0cBslbCI/T3Q74O8S2GI/AAAAAAAAA28/XK62AeFarTo/s288/1.jpg" style="margin: 5px;" width="281" /><br />
Cycling lanes in Bucharest<br />
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Remnants of snow<br />
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My protective friend Laurenteu<br />
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The 5 Star Intercontinental in Bucharest<br />
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Syrian traders in Bucharest<br />
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Capitalists' affluence<br />
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Basking ??<br />
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Location:<a href="http://maps.google.com/maps?q=Bucharest&z=10">Bucharest</a></div>
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<br /></div>oadnanxtremehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06409562202169384327noreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5170518638921608448.post-66307694957450886752012-03-19T15:26:00.001+08:002012-03-21T22:20:14.892+08:00Writing From Stara Zagora, Bulgaria<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
We left Haskovo on a perfect day for cycling. The sun was up and the temperature comfortable. At the edge of town a local cyclist, Lazar, saw us and after the usual introduction rode along with us to the next town about 15 km away where he was also headed. We were joined by another cyclist along the way and by the time we reached Dimitrovgrad two more cyclists joined us. Who says Bulgarians are not friendly. My rear wheel need some fixing up as it was wobbly and that was done by Nikolai ( a fireman ) When all were done we had some tea at a cafe before we moved on The four cyclists actually rode out to the edge of town with us and we parted when we were shown the right road. There are many cyclists in Bulgarian towns going about with their daily chores , and some of the bicycles ridden by the elders are of the old models without gears.<br />
Stara Zagora is a medium sized town with a population of about 90,000. As it is still winter and conditions and temperatures change drastically within a short time , not many people are seen about town. There are a number of international shopping supermarkets like Carrefour, Kaufland, etc but when we passed the Carrefour outlet it seemed closed or it might still be under construction. Mac Donalds and KFC outlets are available but they are not crowded. The Shopping Malls are are also not crowded and many of the outlets too don't see many shoppers. There are luxury cars like the Mercs and BMWs too but their numbers are not significant.<br />
Cycling tour in Bulgaria is possible but not all roads have good surface or cycling lanes.. We have so far encountered undulating stretches with little traffic outside the towns but where the road shoulders are absent or not well paved it can be very scary when heavy vehicles pass you. I believe there would be more cyclists on the roads during warmer times . Most significant is the absence of motorcycles. During the whole time on the roads in Bulgaria so far we have seen only about half a dozen of them and they were all big bikes. I haven't seen a single 'kapchai' on the road at all. The same goes for Turkey.<br />
The thing I like about all the countries I have visited is the number of Gardens and Parks available in the cities and towns. Even in India and Pakistan where one sees so much poverty, there are many large parks and gardens for the people to go and unwind or for the children to go and run around or just kick a football. Many of these places have been there for centuries, so just imagine that even rulers of those times placed importance on recreational areas for the people. Our city fathers in Malaysia must make real attempts to ensure our people can enjoy such facilities. It's of no help for the Ministry of Health or the Statistics Dept to publish figures of the health hazards of not exercising or the rising numbers of excessively obese people if we don't live in a healthy surrounding. Stop depriving schools of playing fields and the cities, towns, and housing areas of recreational facilities. And what better way to stay fit and healthy than to cycle. Yes, cycle.<br />
<a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/111310573113267272447/KLLONDONCYCLINGMARATHON2011?authkey=Gv1sRgCLqj8smeyb-MxQE#5721505605143744882"><img border="0" height="210" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-v7kherdYNug/T2bfCLb_0XI/AAAAAAAAA0M/1dnz_qyAaxc/s288/1.jpg" style="margin: 5px;" width="281" /></a><br />
With my cycling friends from Haskovo<br />
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My bicycle (right) needed mending<br />
<a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/111310573113267272447/KLLONDONCYCLINGMARATHON2011?authkey=Gv1sRgCLqj8smeyb-MxQE#5721505940116732162"><img border="0" height="210" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-ZG2NaE3W92I/T2bfVrTx-QI/AAAAAAAAA0c/Nkl3G7DWdwA/s288/3.jpg" style="margin: 5px;" width="281" /></a><br />
Time for tea<br />
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Time to part<br />
<a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/111310573113267272447/KLLONDONCYCLINGMARATHON2011?authkey=Gv1sRgCLqj8smeyb-MxQE#5721506067317506722"><img border="0" height="210" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-YlT_NAAxIIk/T2bfdFKzwqI/AAAAAAAAA0s/ekod7rmXUAM/s288/5.jpg" style="margin: 5px;" width="281" /></a><br />
Stop when you need to<br />
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Approaching Stara Zagora<br />
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In the Park<br />
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Parking facilities for bicycle<br />
even at the supermarket<br />
NB: After the misfortune in Kolkata where my wallet was picked I made some appeals for contributions from some sources as I had no access to funds with my ATM cards ( my mistake of not keeping the cards separately ) and since then some sponsors , family members and friends have come to my aid. I must stress that what I have now is enough to see me through to the completion of my journey to London. The media had also highlighted my plight and having said that, please do not make any contribution to any party regarding the matter. However, I should also add that my journey is also to raise funds for the Malaysian Aids Foundation. Therefore if there are generous people who wants to contribute please do so to the Foundation's account no. Maybank : 5141 0542 1257 . Every sen raised will go a long way in making a difference in the lives of Malaysians infected and affected by HIV. God Bless You and thank You.<br />
<br /></div>oadnanxtremehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06409562202169384327noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5170518638921608448.post-63431777764835685122012-03-16T17:23:00.001+08:002012-03-17T08:38:59.190+08:00Bulgaria (Bulgaristan) and the unknown<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
We left Istanbul headed towards Bulgaria some 300km away as interacting with the locals in Turkey wasn't easy although the people are generally friendly. Istanbul is too touristy and outside Istanbul less people speak English so we just decided to move on. Riding out of Istanbul we discovered that the city is so large that after 30km there was still no sign that you are out of the city. Places along the roads are all built up and join with the next town. Along the way people waved to us and shouted greetings that we could not understand. We stopped for the night at Silivri, Luleburgaz and the last town Edirne before crossing into Bulgaria. Before Silivri we were stopped by a Bakery operator who insisted to fete us with cakes , cookies and tea . He was so kind that he even packed some for us to take along. It was getting dark and we later stopped at a petrol pump to ask anyone who knew of a hotel nearby. There wasn't one and we finally ended up sleeping in a storeroom at the pump, <br />
We continued our journey to Luleburgaz ,stayed for the night and then continued to Edirne. Edirne is the last town before the border and we managed to see some of its attractions. Edirne was the old capital of the Ottoman Empire and the old mosque was built in 1414. Another mosque is similar to the Blue Mosque in Istanbul and with exquisitely crafted interior . Our cycling route was generally undulating and at some stretches the hills were really steep that I had to push the bicycle to the apex before continuing. The good thing about hills is that after reaching the top it is then down all the way without pedalling sometimes for many kilometers.The border to Bulgaria is about 20 km from Edirne and it was a relief that the crossing procedures were simple. At the Bulgarian side Aede had to remove his helmet as his photo on the passport showed a chubby face while now he has lost all the 'baby' fat. The terrain on the Bulgarian side is also hilly so we also had a tough time. Things here appear gloomy and dreary and while the roads have very light traffic we are again seeing the occasional horse and donkey carts when passing the inhabited areas . Our first night in Bulgaria was in Svilengrad about 15 km from the border. After spending the night there we moved on. We encountered more hills and also the persistent drizzles before we arrived at the next destination.It was cold and at times faced with strong headwinds.We are now at Haskovo about 70 km <br />
from Svilengrad and it was snowing when we arrived. <br />
Some people have asked for my email to contact me so it is : oadnanxtreme@gmail.com . And those who wish to talk to me on Skype this is my Skype ID: adnanxtreme. I shall try and reply to all if possible, but please remember to consider the time difference, I could be cycling or sleeping while you are up and about with your daily routine.<br />
Bulgaria is a small country and we should be out in 4 days time. Next is Romania. Regards and take care all.<br />
<a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/111310573113267272447/KLLONDONCYCLINGMARATHON2011?authkey=Gv1sRgCLqj8smeyb-MxQE#5720422806296857170"><img border="0" height="281" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-NOxdtPGaum8/T2MGO_ZeClI/AAAAAAAAAyU/vawkFuFFvIQ/s288/0.jpg" style="margin: 5px;" width="210" /></a><br />
- Leaving Istanbul, part of the old Ottoman city wall <br />
<a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/111310573113267272447/KLLONDONCYCLINGMARATHON2011?authkey=Gv1sRgCLqj8smeyb-MxQE#5720422862782903154"><img border="0" height="210" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-W7GQfLK11J0/T2MGSR0ys3I/AAAAAAAAAyc/1TNhWqAnyo8/s288/1.jpg" style="margin: 5px;" width="281" /></a><br />
Goodwill and friendship everywhere<br />
<a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/111310573113267272447/KLLONDONCYCLINGMARATHON2011?authkey=Gv1sRgCLqj8smeyb-MxQE#5720422915351414626"><img border="0" height="210" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-6MM6EvFmuKg/T2MGVVqGh2I/AAAAAAAAAyk/YTlIiIFT49Q/s288/2.jpg" style="margin: 5px;" width="281" /></a><br />
Tools of a Shoeshine in Turkey<br />
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To Bulgaria (Bulgaristan)<br />
<a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/111310573113267272447/KLLONDONCYCLINGMARATHON2011?authkey=Gv1sRgCLqj8smeyb-MxQE#5720423116026451442"><img border="0" height="210" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-q87JByT5ck0/T2MGhBOwlfI/AAAAAAAAAy0/r2zAkP0wdVA/s288/4.jpg" style="margin: 5px;" width="281" /></a><br />
<a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/111310573113267272447/KLLONDONCYCLINGMARATHON2011?authkey=Gv1sRgCLqj8smeyb-MxQE#5720423175358980754"><img border="0" height="210" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-vtTb4Fhqkis/T2MGkeQvIpI/AAAAAAAAAy8/xgfgjLZzgC8/s288/5.jpg" style="margin: 5px;" width="281" /></a><br />
Old Ottoman bridge built in 1429 by Mustafa Pasha<br />
During the reign of Sultan Suleiman Shah<br />
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On the way to Haskovo<br />
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<center><a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/111310573113267272447/KLLONDONCYCLINGMARATHON2011?authkey=Gv1sRgCLqj8smeyb-MxQE#5720426709876270994"><img border="0" height="210" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-fOMhCU7qb78/T2MJyNXU55I/AAAAAAAAAzU/DeLkYPZS2lM/s288/0.jpg" style="margin: 5px;" width="281" /></a></center><br />
Proper bicycle parking in Istanbul<br />
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Before leaving Istanbul<br />
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At a petrol pump <br />
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Boiling chicken soup in the room<br />
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Location:<a href="http://maps.google.com/maps?q=Haskovo,%20Bulgaria&z=10">Haskovo, Bulgaria</a></div>
</div>oadnanxtremehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06409562202169384327noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5170518638921608448.post-60725177848052893512012-03-09T17:26:00.001+08:002012-03-10T13:01:07.033+08:00' Frozen Turkey ' and the Wonders of Istanbul.<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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There would have been a lot to write about travelling ( cycling ) in Turkey but things don't always turn out as expected and in this case mother nature played a big part in deciding what it was to be. As I mentioned in my last blog, we entered Turkey in freezing conditions, but managed to survive Dogubayazit and in fact began to get used to the cold conditions. What we didn't know was that after leaving Dogubayazit we were to face with more of the unexpected. Two-thirds of Turkey was totally 'whitewashed', by whitewashed I mean covered in snow. <br />
When we finally cycled out of Dogubayazit heading towards Ankara the weather turned for the worse. After about 65 km. heavy snow started to fall making it difficult to cycle and when it became impossible we had to stop at the nearest town to find refuge. We reached Agri and managed to find a place for the night. There was more snow in the morning so we took the coach heading for Ankara some 1,000 km away. The journey lasted about 14 hours and when we arrived in Ankara the bus dropped us at a bus shelter along the highway at 3am in the morning. The city was blanketed in snow and mist, so locating the guesthouse we intended to stay in was not an option as it was 8 km away. We then pushed our bicycles to the Terminal building 500 meters away. Luckily, the security personnels there allowed us to push our bicycles into the modern enclosed terminal to wait out till the morning. There were also other people at the terminal sharing similar problems, some sleeping on the benches. In the morning conditions remain the same and unable to leave the terminal, we boarded another coach out of Ankara towards Istanbul. There was snow most of the way and it was only after we crossed the Bosphorus bridge ( this bridge joins Asia and Europe) did we see greenery. I don't know if we would have been allowed to cycle on the bridge but it would have been a wonderful experience if we could.<br />
Istanbul is one of the biggest cites in the world and is an open history book spanning thousands of years from the ancient civilizations , the Romans and its golden age, in the Byzantine period it was a shining star in the 'dark' medieval European history. After the conquest by the Ottomans in 1453 Istanbul continued to enjoy a glorious period of development and today it is still the European Capital of Culture. What impressed me most are the numerous relics found in the city. Everywhere you go you see relics that tell the story of when, why and by whom it was constructed. To know that many of these relics were built more than a thousand years ago is just unbelievable. For instance looking at the Hagia Sophia it is hard to imagine that what we see today is the result of it being reconstructed for the third time. It was constructed as a church by Emperor Constantine and was burned down during a riot. A second church was ordered on the same spot by Theodosius 11 and inaugurated in 415 AD. However this second church was also burned down during the Revolt in 532 AD. Emperor Justinian 1 (527-565) took the decision to build a bigger Hagia Sophia to what we see today.<br />
During the reign of Mohamed 11, the Conqueror Hagia Sophia was turned into a mosque and today it functions as a museum.<br />
The 'Blue Mosque' is another magnificent building that dominates Istanbul's skyline. Built during the reign of Sultan Ahmed it is still in use and open to visitors free of charge. Outside prayer times, visitors can enter the mosque and even take photographs of the magnificent interior. Plastic bags are supplied to visitors for their shoes and women are required to cover their heads. <br />
It was during the Classical Ottoman Period (1453-1800) that the Empire enjoyed the golden age of Ottoman architecture especially in Istanbul. For over 300 years this architectural style is conspicuous, evident to this day. The masterpieces of this period are the religious complexes and public buildings as seen in Topkapi Palace, Faith, Beyazit and Suleymanyie mosques and Grand Bazaar. And the list goes on.<br />
Istanbul is teeming with tourists even during the winter and while it is difficult to identify the Europeans from the locals, many Japanese, Koreans and Chinese are the visually obvious groups seen around the tourists spots. Indonesians and some Malaysians are also seen. <br />
Turkey is a secular state and while the population is mainly Muslims you get the feeling that the state does not control the individual's private lives. From my observations, a large number of men and women are smokers and many admit that they also drink. However I don't know if there are cases of people being convicted for drinking beer in public or caught for 'khalwat' as often reported in the Malaysian media. Most women including the elders also don't cover their heads. Their dressing seems to lean towards that of the west. Perhaps no one here wants to play God. <br />
Turkey is certainly more expensive than Malaysia so for me I am not able to stay in Istanbul and visit the many locations where payment is required, longer than necessary. Food is also more expensive. <br />
We will resume cycling tomorrow towards the border into Bulgaria and InsyaAllah will be at the border in three days. Thank you to those following my blog, Joe, Deen JB, Dr Lee, Leong, Sunny Soo, Hoy, and others, too many to mention. Your encouragement keeps me going. Take care.<br />
<a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/111310573113267272447/KLLONDONCYCLINGMARATHON2011?authkey=Gv1sRgCLqj8smeyb-MxQE#5717825972195244850"><img border="0" height="210" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-6NLS1EnvO6M/T1nMbWgzOzI/AAAAAAAAAvc/Bfxw05fHN8o/s288/0.jpg" style="margin: 5px;" width="281" /></a><br />
Brrrrrrrrrr!!! Too cold to camp<br />
<a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/111310573113267272447/KLLONDONCYCLINGMARATHON2011?authkey=Gv1sRgCLqj8smeyb-MxQE#5717826041234161602"><img border="0" height="281" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-wsPfCWhnTdI/T1nMfXs9f8I/AAAAAAAAAvk/PbBGGf4fVrA/s288/1.jpg" style="margin: 5px;" width="210" /></a><br />
Snow for breakfast anyone?<br />
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Sharing a quiet moment with Atartuk<br />
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The 'Blue Mosque'. At night<br />
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Turkish schoolgirls queue to enter the museum<br />
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At the Hagia Sophia<br />
<a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/111310573113267272447/KLLONDONCYCLINGMARATHON2011?authkey=Gv1sRgCLqj8smeyb-MxQE#5717843641855771842"><img border="0" height="210" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-8jsH6jStdwU/T1ncf3IKBMI/AAAAAAAAAwM/Tgg2QAaqKnU/s288/1.jpg" style="margin: 5px;" width="281" /></a><br />
Inside the Blue Mosque<br />
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Aede with Svetlana Shvacheva an ICRC member<br />
at the Grand Bazaar. The Bazaar is so large that it has<br />
at least 20 gates<br />
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Fresh seafood available at the waterfront<br />
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Archaeological artefacts<br />
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Istanbul Waterfront<br />
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With a Turkish family<br />
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The Galata Tower used to have a Dungeon<br />
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Entrance to Istambul University<br />
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An ancient column wrapped in steel to<br />
Counter the elements<br />
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Interior of The Grand bazaar<br />
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A seagull with its lunch<br />
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Traffic in Istanbul<br />
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<center><a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/111310573113267272447/KLLONDONCYCLINGMARATHON2011?authkey=Gv1sRgCLqj8smeyb-MxQE#5717953105515047986"><img border="0" height="210" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-kPmOVfB2zkM/T1pADfCQ7DI/AAAAAAAAAx8/mmkloLrS6hk/s288/0.jpg" style="margin: 5px;" width="281" /></a></center><br />
The Obelisk Of Theodosius 390 A.D.<br />
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<center><a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/111310573113267272447/KLLONDONCYCLINGMARATHON2011?authkey=Gv1sRgCLqj8smeyb-MxQE#5717953246818639762"><img border="0" height="210" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-q0Sw7cC2Qek/T1pALtbqn5I/AAAAAAAAAyM/Hm5O0LYMRag/s288/2.jpg" style="margin: 5px;" width="281" /></a></center><br />
No plaque for this ancient relic<br />
(what remains of the Hippodrome, I think)</div>oadnanxtremehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06409562202169384327noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5170518638921608448.post-33856143091257496972012-02-26T23:39:00.001+08:002012-02-27T00:35:47.326+08:00A Brief Affair With Iran<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
It is difficult to give a true picture of Iran today given the current situation being continuously distorted by the western media and at the same time the somewhat unbalanced portrayal of the mood of the populace through visuals on TV showing thousands of flag waving and banner carrying crowds shouting praises and support for the ruling elite. Such scenes are also not uncommon in Malaysia where the government in power controls the broadcasting channels. As a visitor just travelling through I see it from a different perspective after talking to the people in the streets. Taheran, for example is a modern metropolis not devoid of people who would freely tell you that they are not in sync with what the government is advocating and in the same breath tell you not to publicise their views for fear of the obvious. What is evident is that most Iranians curb their true feelings in public. The government however should also be commended for its stance in standing up and defying the wishes and the bullying tactics of the west especially the United States .<br />
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While enjoying a sunny winter afternoon at Mo'allem Park in Taheran I befriended a gentleman, Reza and his two young daughters Rose 8 and Rozhan 10 who were also enjoying the peaceful surrounding. Reza and his family is a typical modern middle class liberal Iranian family who are well educated and proud to be Iranian. His wife Deeba (means beautiful) is a medical doctor (private practitioner) and they live in a modern apartment. They have satellite TV and have access to hundreds of TV channels from around the world except CNN.Their two daughters speak excellent English and they take lessons in violin, traditional drums and ballet. The girls can tell you about the history of Iran, its culture and the attractions in Tehran and other places in Iran . We were privileged to be guests at their apartment and feted with a typical Iranian meal. That is Iranian warmth and hospitality for you. The family has travelled abroad and hope to visit Malaysia soon.<br />
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We did not see many tourists in Iran and those we met were mostly backpackers staying in budget hotels around Amir Kabeer Street. At the Mashhad Hotel that we stayed we met several young Koreans, a Danish and a Thai cyclist, Sawang 39 who is also cycling around in Iran ,Turkey, Armenia, etc.Sawang was a teacher for 9 years before quitting to travel. He is making a study and trying to understand the different religions and searching for inner peace within himself. You can't help but admire such people.<br />
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From Tehran we cycled to Karaj some 45 kilometres away and cycling on the streets in Taheran is an absolute nightmare. All motorists treat the streets like the race tracks. No one drives or rides slowly, but the amazing part is when you expect the driver or the rider to crash while swerving through the busy traffic they somehow were able to avoid hitting the other vehicle by mere centimetres or a fraction of a second. To think of it, they are really good drivers and riders. Those with a weak heart are forewarned not gamble their lives driving in Iranian cities. I only saw three Protons, one Gen2 and two Iswaras while in Iran. <br />
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Tehran is so big that you can travel for 30 kilometers or more and not come to the edge of the city. Before we knew it we were told that we were already in Karaj, another city. In geography I think we call it conurbation, where two different towns or cities join without a distinct physical boundary. In Karaj we were guests of one Afshin, 31, who is the coach and manager to Milad 21, the top DH (downhill) rider in Iran. Aede met Milad in KL when he came to race there last year and also raced in Kuantan and JB. Milad is a professional DH rider and would travel to races where the prize money can cover his travelling expenses and more. In Malaysia, he finished on the podium at all the DH races that he participated. Milad is going to Canada in April to race there professionally and also hopes to gain PR status if all goes well. The young man really has talent and I do hope he succeeds. <br />
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Afshin is another Iranian who is multi-talented and an accomplished extreme sportsman. He is a taekwando black belt holder, a kick boxer, an accomplished DH and cross-country rider, mountaineer, ice climber and ski instructor among other things. He is also a certified Shimano bicycle technician (mechanic) and sponsored by Merida. We were his guests and while at his apartment he exhibited extreme kindness and generosity taking care of all our needs beyond all expectations . We can never repay or replicate his deeds should he be our guest in Malaysia. Wherever we went we were always greeted warmly and I have to admit that Iran and Iranians are not what the West would like us to believe.<br />
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Besides joining Milad during his training session at the rocky hills in Karaj we were also guests at his family apartment for a sumptuous dinner prepared by his mother. Joining the dinner were his entire family including his grandfather, grandmother, his uncle, aunt and cousins. While our stay in Iran was brief, we shall always remember it with fond memories.<br />
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Although there is a lot to see and do in Iran we did not extend our 14 day Iran visa as we were not able to cycle most of the way due to the extreme weather conditions and unforgiving terrain. We headed for Maku, the border town separating Iran and Turkey. Much of the way is mountainous with steep slopes covered in snow. Traffic was light but after Tabriz there was heavy snowfall and traffic moved slowly. On reaching Maku we had to push our fully ' loaded' bicycles for for about 1 kilometer to the top of a hill where the Immigration posts of both Iran and Turkey are situated. Luckily the procedures at both sides of the border were hassle-free and in freezing cold we entered Turkey.<br />
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As we left the Turkish Immigration post we were greeted with the most stunning view of the legendary Mount Ararat where Noah's Ark was said to have landed. The 5,165 meter mountain and all the plains around it were totally covered in snow and in spite of the sub zero temperatures we decided to enjoy the scenery while cycling to the nearest town, Dogubayazit 35 kilometers away. It was a bad decision because we not only had to tackle the hill-slopes, we were also faced with very strong headwind (must be between 20 to 25 kph) that we even had to pedal going downhill. Thank God, that after cycling for about 15 kilometers, a kind gentleman noticing how hard we were struggling, stopped his van to give us a lift into town, otherwise we not only would take at least another hour to cover the short distance to town, but we could even have suffered frostbite. <br />
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Dogubayazit is a small town where the people are mostly Kurds (that's what we were told) and not many people here speak English. The people are however friendly with foreign tourists, always smiling and wanting to know where they are from. Among the most famous tourist attraction here is Mount Ararat that can be seen from just about anywhere in town . The 5,165 metre mountain is now totally covered in snow but in summer only the top 400 meters of its summit will be covered in snow. The mountain is very similar to that of Fujiyama in Japan but don't offend the locals by saying that Ararat looks like Fujiyama, instead one should say that Fujiyama looks like Ararat. That is what we call patriotism. You can trek up the mountain in 4 days but you will need to apply for a permit (USD50) and use a guide. Skiing is also possible on its slopes. The other attraction is the Ishak Pasa Palace,5 kilometers away, situated on a hill overlooking the town.<br />
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<center><a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/111310573113267272447/KLLONDONCYCLINGMARATHON2011?authkey=Gv1sRgCLqj8smeyb-MxQE#5713464432985000754"><img border="0" height="210" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-FmuwiZUnwyg/T0pNoWzmSzI/AAAAAAAAAt0/p0P-LSWBza0/s288/0.jpg" style="margin: 5px;" width="281" /></a></center><br />
- With Reza, Dr Deeba ,Rose and Rozhan<br />
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Cycling in Taheran<br />
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Milad in training,Karaj<br />
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Not practical to cycle in these conditions<br />
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<center><a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/111310573113267272447/KLLONDONCYCLINGMARATHON2011?authkey=Gv1sRgCLqj8smeyb-MxQE#5713469378736182546"><img border="0" height="210" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-mdHSq18ECHI/T0pSIPKkVRI/AAAAAAAAAvU/BVeshf0LyeQ/s288/10.jpg" style="margin: 5px;" width="281" /></a></center><br />
The 5,165 meter Mount Ararat<br />
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Location:<a href="http://maps.google.com/maps?q=Tehran%20and%20Karaj%20before%20crossing%20into%20Turkey&z=10">Tehran and Karaj before crossing into Turkey</a></div>
</div>oadnanxtremehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06409562202169384327noreply@blogger.com4