The last couple days have been slow. As we get provisioned for our trip I am getting more and more excited. Although I’ve been lucky enough to travel a lot thus far, this is the biggest trip I’ve taken without a doubt. I’m still waiting on ID confirmation from the Indian Railway system which will enable us to buy our first train from Mumbai to Goa. Everything we’ve read said its one of the most popular trains and to book in advance.
photo: recipes for hazelnut & chamomile wine
Yesterday we trip prepped & worked in the morning before a late lunch. In the afternoon, we brushed off two dusty bikes from Louise’s garage and set out towards Saumur.The trail took us along the Loire river, and after around an hour of biking we found a spot to park and sit in the water. Today I was scolded by Louise’s mom for my stupidity… apparently the Loire is one of the most dangerous rivers in France due to its quicksand. A couple tourists die every year because the shallow looking water appears to be solid, but just beneath the sand is another layer of water. Louise’s Dad, Eric, explained that the best way to prevent dying in the sand is to lay horizontally. That said, the only way to ensure escape is if someone else pulls you out.
Luckily, our portion of the river contained only friendly, quarter sized sand spiders and refreshing aqua. We lured the spiders out of their dens by spitting on the ends of sticks and poking them into the burrows (trick stolen from Brazilian amazon guide while hunting for tarantulas).
While we biked we saw dozens of bikers equipped for long term rides, sporting waterproof saddle bags and camping gear. Louise’s family explained that its a common vacation activity in the region to do a small tour via bike. Although we’re not at all equipped for a trip like that now I would love to do a small tour week bike tour at some point in the future.
For dinner we mowed down a salmon and vegetable quiche and I slept deeply.
Today we took advantage of a one day trail at a nearby gym before coming home for a lunch of galletes (salty, savory crepes filled with ham, cheese, and topped with an egg yolk) and crepes (conventionally sweet and filled with nutella or honey).
Currently I sit in the garden next to a mini swimming pool. The pool is heated via a shallow rocky area on one end. Three frogs are happily jetting around the teal water.
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