Total around the world bicycle miles 22,833 (36,746 km)

July 13, 2016

It was another good riding day without rain and thunderstorms. Last Friday we were at the Calgary Stampede with perfect weather but have heard that it has rained ever since in Calgary so we really lucked out. Yesterday afternoon it was storming so before the downpour hit we took a room in Brooks. Today we rode another 120 km and stopped at a Sub-Way in the city Medicine Hat. Our research of campgrounds didn’t show any regular campsites east of Medicine Hat and since Andee is driving a car, which isn’t good for stealth camping, we found a nice city campsite in Medicine Hat where we got a fire going and barbecued. We also spent some time removing lots of gear for Andee to take home. We figure we are in more civilization now and if something breaks it should readily be available. A touring cyclist is all about losing more weight from the bike.

I have also been thinking about how much I miss South America. It was way more of a challenge to cycle there and integrate with the locals than it is here. What’s funny is that while in South America, or all of Latin America from Mexico south, is how much I missed Asia as then it seemed so much more exotic to cycle through. That part of the world was more exciting and interesting than Latin America in some aspects. Cycling around the world really opens one’s eyes and is so full of new challenges every day. I think it was more interesting and also daunting trying to fit into the Asian culture be it Turkey, the Stan countries, Iran, China and Southeast Asia. I would love to return to Southeast Asia for a few more months of cycling and visit the countries that we didn’t have time for. Out of all this we have found the friendliest people in the world in Iran and Latin America be it Mexico, Central America, or South America.

It rained most of the night in Medicine Hat but fortunately the thunderstorms stayed away. Andee made a nice breakfast of tortillas, eggs, and avocado in the camp kitchen. We then packed our wet tent and rode east into the increasing hills and rain. In the late afternoon we arrived at Eagle Creek Campground and since there were no other accommodations for another 40 miles we decided to call it a day.

July 15, 2016

Today was a long day with hills and headwinds so we splurged on a motel in the town of Swift Current. The scenery was exciting to watch though as there were buffalo (bison), coyotes, and deer. We saw a deer chasing a coyote!

Monetary wise Canada is a really good place for Americans right now. $1 Canadian is .75 U.S. In other words, we have a 25% discount on everything, every day!