Our time in Italy was cut short due to the looming Brexit deadline. We discovered in mid-November it would be much easier for Miki to stay for a longer period in the UK if we arrived before 11pm on 31st December 2020. So bags were packed, notice was given at the flat in Genova, and …
England
Spring and summer 2020 – lockdown in the UK
After our stressful exit from Sri Lanka, we were very grateful when we finally touched down in the UK. This was Miki’s first time in the country and was most likely a very strange way to experience it, when most things that help create the culture and atmosphere are closed or off-limits. We had flown …
From The Peaks to Derby
At 4am I dragged myself out from shelter to stand beneath the dull light of dawn, wanting to be gone without trace before any early risers made their way past on a morning jaunt. I had the joy of packing away under the rising sun. The light blue sky began to emerge behind the clouds, …
Into The Peaks
The turning into The Peaks introduced one of the hardest physical and mental challenges I have faced cycle touring. As the hills continued, albeit none quite so steep as this first, I began to question everything. Why was I doing this? This is the Peak District, named as such for a reason. Why did I …
Lincolnshire Wolds on Wheels
Back on English ground, I took the opportunity to explore as I never have before. In the past I used a bike as transport within Leeds city, but generally took public transport for longer distances. This time, determined to see more of England and with a great desire to keep my legs moving, I made …
Until Next Time, England
A month has passed since I left home once again. I’d intended to share my remaining time and reflections as I left, but a mixture of exhaustion from the whirlwind visit, combatting jet lag on my return to Brisbane and being whisked into the Woodfordia life shortly afterward, made this thought a distant idea for …
A Tourist in Britain
One month in, one to go. It feels so normal now to be home and yet I have that lingering feeling of anticipation and preparation for the next step of my journey. I am now having to make real steps in planning once again, with flights needing to be booked, visas applied for and job …
From One Side of the World to Another
With three months since my previous post, I once again discovered the difficulties of writing something which I felt may be of interest as I led what became for me, typical day to day life. Unusual as it may sound to consider working on a mountain an uninteresting tale, rather I mean that as this …