Day 11: Glowing from Laizhou to Longkou

Route: 71 km   Travel time: 03:38

Day 11: Off the main roads, we follow a canal for about 30 km, beautifully located in the greenery, with a slight tailwind and gravel road. It is getting warmer (the hottest days of the year) and we have no choice but to continue our way on the expressway (G206 or G228). The asphalt is glowing, the humid warm air is saturated with various smells, and breathing becomes harder.

A fan provides refreshment during lunch, and our sweaty bodies slowly cool down. The landlady wants to take a photo with us, as hardly any foreigners pass by here. This is not the first time I have been photographed - maybe I should consider becoming a part-time model in China?

Finally, on the last kilometers, a breeze from the sea blows towards us, providing some cooling. Arriving in the city of Longkou and by the sea, we are somewhat disappointed by the surroundings, nestled amidst industry and port facilities, leaving little room for holiday vibes. In the evening, things change a bit as many people (old and young) dance or cool their feet in the sea at the Beach Park...

By the way, it is fashionable here for men to pull their shirts over their bellies, sort of like an air conditioner in this warm climate. If it gets even warmer, the shirt is pushed even higher up to the chest. Unfortunately, not for me, as a well-groomed appearance requires a round Buddha belly, which I still need to work on...