Cheered down the street

The clocks went back overnight so I took the chance to get an early start. ABC were still snoozing so I left a note and set off. It was not to be. Still having trouble with the gears, I threw the chain three times. Tried a couple of fixes, no luck. As it was Sunday and a national holiday too, it seemed best to turn round (into a fearsome headwind) and request help again. For some train the cable was slipping back after changing rings. So I could get top gear but it wouldn't stay there. I was really pleased to be able to spend more time with ABC who have done some amazing hikes and bike tours. We agree that being in charge of our own tour, with no guide, is where it’s at. It feels right, carrying everything with you that you need - self-sufficient. I would be worried if I didn't have what I need to fix the bike, or patch up injuries. And so many brilliant moments in my tours have been serendipitous, sudden route changes or recommendations from people met on route. Lots more bonding over such views! It is hard to see why hiring guides to take you up Kilimanjaro or to the North pole is an adventure or challenge, compared with taking the responsibility for it all yourself, albeit in a less challenging environment. A little later we set off together for Chalkidha. The streets were lined with cheering crowds as the three bikes breezed along the seafront. Of course, it wasn't really for us, and we were lucky to reach the end of the promenade before the holiday marching band came the other way.. Still, fun! The run to Chalkidha was straightforward. Having negotiated another marching band, we looked down from our hotel's cafe onto the beautiful narrow channel between Evvia and the mainland, spanned by a small bridge. You can clearly see the fabled switch in direction of the sea's current. A pleasant walk around the town, a super meal sharing various tasty Greek dishes.. Feels like the holiday is underway