Western China in 2009
I’m happy to report that my worries about missing out on cycling in Western China and Central Asia this year were quickly put to rest. In the past few weeks, following the Tibet unrest and embarrassment surrounding the Olympic torch run, I read and heard, either online (China Travel Feels a Chill) or from friends traveling there right now, how messy the pre-Olympics 2008 travel inside China is for foreigners. Ranging from visa problems (only short-term, hard-to-renew visas are currently available), dealing with over-zealous PSB officers (public security bureau), to just being randomly turned around and not allowed into many areas (Tibet is still virtually off limits as of June 22nd)…
But to keep my dream alive, here and there, I always find something to read for inspiration. The latest issue of Bicycling magazine (July ‘08) just published an article by Dan Koeppel “You Will Be Burried” about his travels around and on the Silk Route. He only spent 16 days cycling, fully supported, organized through Bike China Adventures, Inc. Full support comes for a price though: $2,590 (includes support vehicle, guide, meals and accomodation). Kind of steep, if you ask me. I could easily go on for at least 4 months unsupported with so much money. This is how I slept when cycling on the Silk Road in 2006. But that’s just me… Sorry to sound too frugal;) Notwithstanding the nuances of different modes of cycling, it is still on a bike and an amazing read. Thanks for sharing Dan Koeppel, wherever you are.
‘Full support’ would actually take away from the adventure, I suppose. I agree with your way.
Comment by Sidhusaaheb | June 27, 2008