Week One Reflections

Chris and I reflected on the end of week 1 last night. Three main conclusions:

1. France and the French: vast country sparsely populated outside the cities, very agricultural, industrial farming US style mostly, unresponsive to our chipper bonjours, great attitude by drivers to cyclists, traditional French food has largly disappeared replaced by kebabs, pizzas, etc., dogs warmly welcomed in restaurants, tabacs/bars mostly grubby but warm and friendly

2. Cycling Lessons: Planning our day meticulously pays massive dividends, have enough food and the right types of food for the day is vital - natural goodies + a chocolate bar, carrying 17kg of stuff makes it 20% harder on the flat and 50% harder on hills, your bike becomes your best friend, headwinds are evil, cars don't allow for pannier width especially caravan drivers.

3. It's an Emotional Journey: A long bike ride is as much in the mind as on the road.

So week one is over, a week of settling into the rhythm of the daily pack, ride, wows, unpack, shower, eat, sleep, ...  It's becoming very familiar and strangely addictive