X spot™ = The land of OZ...Australia
Like the Vietnam cycle, the Australia cycle was a last minute decision. This bike ride went from Melbourne to Adelaide, covering some 700 miles over 12 days. This cycle was more leisurely allowing us to see more of the country whilst soaking up the Australian wilderness. The route cycle took us along the great ocean road allowing to see the 12 apostles. On heading away from the coast further in land, the wildlife in their natural habitat was abundant. During this part of the cycle I had the opportunity of seeing porcupines, snakes, kangaroo’s, wallabies, Koala bear’s, emu’s, dingo and a range of different types of birds and spiders.
By the way, I had to buy another bike for this journey, which was a women’s mountain bike, as it was the cheapest. So I bought a pink helmet (for a laugh, honest!) although it went well with the pink & white bike, I think! After buying a rack and a front basket it cost around £70. Again minimal provisions were taken & the same tent used in Vietnam was home each night...although this usually ended up wet inside as it was not waterproof!
The Australian cycle, like the Vietnam cycle, was tough mainly due to the unsuitable bike and lack of equipment, but both journeys were massive highlights during the travels. In Australia the winds were against you almost every day, in Vietnam the mountainous terrain challenged you, and both countries the temperatures reached 40 degrees plus. If you challenge yourself physically and mentally, you really start to understand just how much you can push your body and mind.
“What counts is developing a cheerfulness and quiet determination to keep going and never give up”
Ash Dykes, Xperientialist™
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