Fanlu - Alishan Mountain Tag10

https://bit.ly/2T9VrmW

My first real mountain day lies behind me and I am simply exhausted.

The day began with a hamburger for breakfast. When the landlord showed it to me yesterday on his translation app, I thought... the app is interpreting too much... but I got a hamburger.

My booked accommodation for the next night had a note in the booking confirmation that I should call again on the day of arrival, normally I would never do that since my room was already booked. But maybe the respect of standing at 2500m and not having accommodation was too great. The receptionist knew nothing about my booking. After 20 minutes she called back and said there were no problems, I can come. The only thing was that almost 1 hour had passed until I could finally set off.

With plenty of provisions, the journey through the green mountains began. The view was mostly restricted by fog/smog today. But a few glimpses into the valley were possible and were the reward for the strenuous journey. For lunch, I had my first funny encounter. Emy, who was celebrating her 40th birthday in the restaurant. At one point, some of her family left the table alone to sit with me and teach me a few new words. At some point, I realized that there was a bit too much alcohol involved. When I wanted to leave, she came out with me and wanted my phone number. Her husband had already introduced her to me before. Her relative eventually came out and brought her back in. For me, after buying a pack of 10 bananas, I continued towards the summit.

The second part of the day was very strenuous and partly led along the edge to the top. I had in mind to praise my navigation services again today. But then my route planning sent me on a country road that was challenging. From the beginning, I was unsure if what I was doing was good. But I trusted my proven experiences. After about 30 minutes of suffering, Ching Ching came towards me in his old van and indicated that the road further up was not drivable. He could take me back down to the main road that would also lead me up. I gratefully accepted his offer. Bike in the trunk and off we went. At the bottom, it was time to pedal again. I was really glad when I had the last few kilometers ahead of me and started taking more frequent breaks. I could barely eat anymore, there were so many breaks. But I made it and I am satisfied and tired.

I have long suppressed the 24th of December today.

Of course, I wish everyone a Merry Christmas.