It’s only the second day but it really feels like we are on our way to Istanbul. I get the feeling that people felt much more comfortable on the bikes today. Getting that first day over with, is a huge mental hurdle for most people and so day two allowed more time to enjoy the ride and soak in the scenery, and ending in a town like Troyes is a big bonus.
And we are off. We had a very successful first day. Ride thru Paris was excellent and Gergo the photographer had an opportunity to take some great shots.
Everyone made it to lunch before our cut off time and everyone was in camp by 4:30PM. We had a celebratory wine and cheese party before dinner which was a huge success and resulted in most of the riders laughing and joking. It was a great way for everyone to get to know each other.
It is 9:30 PM and 19 cyclists are now sound asleep after a great first days effort.
There was light rain during the ride but it didn't faze anyone. Most people enjoyed the refreshing warm shower.
Tomorrow is a little shorter which will hopefully give the riders some time to explore the town of Troyes.
Paris has been great, and Gare de l'Est has been a great location for the start of this epic journey. You really get a sense of the daily lives of Parisiennes here. Once the home and departure point for the famous Orient Express trains that our tour is named for, Gare de l'Est is now a bustling, vibrant place - a real neighbourhood - full of colour and ethnic diversity. The young population of this area fill the street-side cafes and brasseries and indulge in fine foods and french wines at casual picnics alongside a nearby canal.
The life of the city is outdoors and on the streets and in front of the magnificent and stunning architecture and history behind Paris' many tourist attractions.
With many of the riders already in Paris the excitement and anticipation (and trepidation) for the start on Sunday begin to mount. Our mechanic is busily assisting with the re-assembly of bicycles. Our cook shops for the last minute items that will round out our diet. And all the staff finish up all the last minute details.
Those of you who are regular visitors to our web site are aware that for all our transcontinental trips we send updates from the trip. So here is the first official entry from the 2nd annual Orient Express Bicycle Tour.
Myself, Miles our chef who hails from Canada, Gergo our official photographer (and a general all around support), who is from Hungary and Piotr, our mechanic from Poland are meeting here in Bratislava where we have just picked up our support vehicles. We are working hard to get the mini busses and the equipment ready for the start in Paris.
Piotr, arrived to meet us yesterday morning after a long train journey from Gdansk, Poland. After a short recovery, he went right to work, helping us organize the purchase of much needed equipment. Gergo, arrives today from Budapest. Gergo is a Tour d'Afrique veteran with an eye for the special place and moments of life. Our final staff member Errol, who hails from South Africa, will meet us in Paris on July 28. Errol, is our driver, has also worked with us on our Tours through Africa.
It is now just over a week before the start, for what looks to be a great adventure. We hope everyone will follow our progress from the website, and through our newsletters.
Rider profiles are on line and photos and more diary entries are on there way.
