HALT AT GEORGIAN BORDER
We have had to halt our progress east but are pleased to say only temporarily.
After the situation in Georgia deteriorated rapidly over Friday and Saturday we maintained our original route and cycled up almost as far as the border but last night (Saturday) we were left with no alternative but to re-route south to Kars.
In fact it is unlikely we would have been allowed to cross the border and almost certain the road blocks inside Georgia would have prevented any crossing in a foreign vehicle let alone a group of 20 bicycles.
Ethically, as well, we as tourists do not feel comfortable 'enjoying ourselves' in an area where so many are suffering.
We are all safe and well, however, and in good spirits. We will bus our way back to Ankara and then fly over Georgia to rejoin our schedule in Azerbaijan. The logistics are not simple and the main support vehicle will have to make a dash down to the Iranian border and attempt to cross that country to meet us in Turkmenistan.
Sorry for not filling you in on the delights of Yusufeli and stark beauty of Turkey's easternmost provinces but hopefully we can return to these in the next couple of days.'
Cheers
Paul
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Posted November 30, 2006 by Tour d'Afrique Ltd.
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