Debs had a good sleep last night but mine was somewhat fitful. Perhaps it was concern over the days' cycling or perhaps it was the fact that Debs' bike was outside the guest-house chained to a railing (both bikes wouldn't fit in the lobby). There is no doubt that I feel responsible when the going gets tough as it was definitely my idea to do the trip on bicycles. I am aware that Debs feels she is a big girl and can make her own decisions, but yesterdays' almost foolhardy route, with a very real risk of injury has brought home the possible dangers of such an undertaking. Perhaps it has been a good thing; a brief wake up call!
On a lighter note breakfast at a nearby bakery was good; although we both rather overdosed on bread based products. The breakfast was rather extended as we had woken to torrential rain.
Eventually braving the roads, the morning started rather unsettlingly like yesterday ended. Multiple road lanes, heavy fast moving traffic, busy intersections to cross and this time in the rain! When we eventually passed Izmir airport (I had to ride blocker to stop Debs heading straight for the first available plane!) and the built up areas gave way to fields we breathed a sigh of relief. The spray from the traffic was still horrible but at least we felt a little safer on the road.
Feeling soaked and thoroughly miserable we pulled over onto a garage forecourt. The manager gestured for us to go into the office, where he pulled up some chairs and turned the AC to warm us up. The added bonus of a cup of warming çay, helped send us back onto the road in much better spirits. The sun had even made a brief attempt to shine.
Making better progress we headed into the town of Torbali (approximately our half way point) and stopped at yet another garage. This time the manager and staff put on the electric fire for us and made us yet more healing çay. Asking if we wanted a chocolate bar or biscuit they took Debs into the shop, where she picked some things out and they then wouldn't let her pay for them. The level of hospitality and kindness we have received over the last few days has counteracted any of the upset we may have been feeling. In the spirit of Karma, I hope that one day we will be able to repay the favour.
With about 10km left to go until we reached Selçuk, we stopped once again for a cup of çay and once again payment was refused. The owner spoke very good English and sarcastically told us how he really envied our cycling trip in this weather and then went on to recommend a guest-house in Selçuk. It was one that we had already considered but now the deal was done.
As we had ridden onto the forecourt I had noticed something shining in my front tyre. This turned out to be a piece of the duct tape that I had placed inside to mend the split. It looks like my front tyre has come to the end of its life. Fortunately the tape had been there, or there would have been nothing stopping the inner tube coming out. A blow out would have been extremely dangerous in this mornings' heavy traffic. Taking it a little easier, we made it into town tyre intact. Unless I can find a decent replacement, I will have to switch to my other tyres which I didn't really want to do this early on in our trip.
We found the ANZ (Australia, New Zealand) guest-house with ease and after being introduced to the slightly mad Harry, who's first question was 'why are you so wet?' we got settled in.
The bikes are safely secured, our luggage has been hosed down and the huge laundry bag has been put in. We will be here for a few days resting and taking in the sights. Hopefully the rain will ease, so we will be ready to hit the road again soon!
PS. Turkish wine is quite drinkable, we are branching out from the usual Efes. We did however have a Kebab for dinner, too much change is not good for you!
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