Beginning of a Planless Journey

A gray rainy Sunday in February, this is a good time to start my travel blog.

So, now I am almost 61 and retired. As a firefighter, I was allowed to retire at 60.

Since I have endless free time now, I had decided to go on a big motorcycle tour.

Initially, I planned an Africa tour, taking the eastern route towards South Africa. Unrest in Ethiopia, almost war-like conditions in Sudan, and inhumane high temperatures, all of this is keeping me away from Africa at the moment. And considering my age, I think it will become more difficult to fulfill the Africa dream on a motorcycle. We will see.

So, where am I traveling now instead?

I have decided to start here in Vechta and head southeast. The Balkans are always worth a visit, and I still have a few white spots on my map to explore. Serbia, Kosovo, and Bulgaria are the Balkan countries where I have not been yet. I will also revisit Romania, Montenegro, and Albania. It was just awesome there. Istanbul, this huge city on the Bosporus, has always fascinated me. Then, continue through Turkey to Georgia and Armenia. I would also love to travel to Iran. Let's see if I can manage all of this. I am not being driven by anyone, I don't have to answer to anyone, and if I realize after three weeks that I don't actually like long-term travel, I can always stop.

But I won't start completely without a plan, there are some preparations to be made.

I have completed my equipment. I have replaced my gas cooker with a gasoline cooker. And I have acquired an Inreach device, which allows for satellite communication and can also call for help in case there is no mobile phone network. Since I am traveling alone, this makes me feel safer.

A visa for Iran needs to be applied for, and a Carnet de Passage needs to be obtained from the ADAC. This customs document is necessary for Iran.

Also, my motorcycle, my Suzuki 650 Strom, needs to be prepared. Inspection, oil change, changing all filters, checking valve clearance, and getting new tires. I have always had a great experience with the Mitas E07 tires.

I will not start my journey until the end of May. I still want to celebrate my mother-in-law's 91st birthday with her. Who knows how many more times that will be possible.

So that's it for today, I will keep you updated.