It's been over two years since my last post, but I have decided to revive my little corner of the internet. Why now? I've been having quite a few adventures lately and simply want an outlet where I can share them. This time around the blog will focus mainly on my travels, think of them as more of dispatches from 'out there'. I don't plan on having a regular schedule for when these dispatches will be released, but it won't be two years between posts. Now, on with the show!

     After years of section riding the Adventure Cycling Association's Pacific Coast Route, I have completed it! In June I rode Amtrak's Coast Starlight train from Sacramento to Santa Barbara to begin the completion of the southern part I had yet to ride. It was my first time riding the train and it was fantastic. I met new people, and saw parts of the country I wouldn't have otherwise seen. Taking my bike on the train was easy and convenient. All I did was hand it up into the baggage car, no need to box it. In Santa Barbara I stayed at an Air B&B for the first time. This particular one was more like a hostel than anything else. On this trip I celebrated 10 years with my Novara Randonee, as well as 50,000 miles on it. I rode 103 miles my first day and stayed with my girlfriend in Redondo Beach. I rode through Camp Pendelton, saw signs warning me of tanks crossing (though I didn't actually see any). I met other cycle tourists, who warmly chatted with me about their travels. On this southern stretch people definitely were friendlier than the parts of the route I had previously ridden, and the cycling scene overall was more abundant. The terrain was also easier, much flatter than the rest I had experienced.

     There were, of course, hills. Mostly toward the end, as I approached La Jolla. I passed through San Diego, riding over the bridge that bears the mirror universe moniker of my name.

     As I approached the border of Mexico, outside of Imperial Beach, the roads became quiet and the country side a sublime hilly desert. The ride ended at the ocean, at Border Field state park. I didn't realize until I got there that there was no actual border crossing. I had to enjoy Mexico through a giant, double layer fence. Despite the fact it was just after 9AM, a mariachi band played in front of the bull ring in Tijuana. I enjoyed the sounds of the band mingling with those of the sea, and swore one day I would ride south again, and actually into Mexico. 

Sometimes I dress ridiculously when I ride my bicycle

So close, yet so far!

The Ocean at Border Field State Park

     In the meantime my thoughts turned north, to the last section of the route left: Vancouver, BC to Washington. Until next time...