The only real failure is the failure not to try and the measure of success is how we cope with disappointments.
Sounds like good advice at the beginning of a long journey. To have an idea or a well-prepared plan is one thing, living it is another. Not every day will be come up with sunshine and blue skies. Nevertheless, the time on the road will be marked by innumerable encounters with people of other cultures and countries …
After I got last week my final visa for Vietnam approved and stamped into my passport, I started my journey Monday morning at dawn with a few days delay.
While the Czech Republic welcomed me with 8° degrees and some rain, Vienna was waiting with sunshine and comfortable 20° degrees in the afternoon. I love this city and it was a good feeling to be back after I left this place 10 months ago. I spent the evening and the following day with good friends, and considering the coming months with some thoughtful conversations. In addition, I decided to change my originally planned route along the Adriatic and will instead drive directly to Istanbul.
Following the new route, I crossed Hungary on Wednesday and entered Serbia. Spring was already in it’s full swing and the temperature climbed to 33° degrees. However, it is not exactly the biggest fun to ride eight-hours in full gear but it offered me the chance to test my KLIM adventures rally suit. I opened all vents on the jacket and the pants to allow a reasonably airflow but I am afraid this was just an appetizer of what I have to expect in the Middle East.
When I first saw the street signs of “Novi Sad” after three years, I had to smile. I spent nearly two years there. Back then, there wasn’t too much laughter involved but the time taught me some important lessons …
Belgrade was my choice for the night and this morning I was already on my way to Bulgaria.
Istanbul is waiting … stay tuned!