Gori - following in Stalin's footsteps

For Thursday morning, September 6, 2018, I set my alarm for half past six. Due to the still strong wind, I ignore the alarm, but still wake up almost on time. The research at the timetable display in the Kutaissi train station revealed a possible train connection to Tbilisi at 9:20 am the day before. After breakfast, I pack up our belongings, with the tent sheet proving very stubborn in the wind. In the end, it ends up temporarily as a big knot in the backpack. So, we can start off in time, just before eight, to the train station about 4 km away. It turns out that the next train that is useful for us only departs shortly after twelve. Too bad about getting up early. Until then, I write a suitable travel report for the pictures uploaded at McDonald's. Due to time constraints, I cancel the planned stop in Sestaponi and, after a short discussion about Rango, buy a ticket to Gori. We board the assigned wagon on time, with Rango initially having to sit in the vestibule. Then two cyclists board, the space is needed for the bikes, and Rango is allowed into the cabin. The two bikers also join us and we get into a conversation. Valerie and Erik have quit their apartment and jobs in Germany and are on their way to Nepal. We exchange some experiences and further plans until I leave the train in Gori with Rango around four. On Google Maps, I spotted potential camping spots on the bank of the large Liachwi River, so we make our way there. After I have chosen a camping spot, I set up our shelter and make myself a cup of coffee. On the way, I managed to get some cookies and sweet milk, which now complement the hot drink perfectly. Then I go with the big guy in search of some drinking water, get carried away with spontaneous training at a sports field, and treat myself to a shave by the river. Then the day is already coming to an end and we retreat to the tent.

On Friday, I take a walk through Gori with Rango. Past the stadium, we go up to the ruins of the fortress, which dominates the cityscape and offers a good panoramic view. We stroll past one or two churches towards the Stalin Museum. In front of the actual museum is the birthplace of Iosseb Bessarionis dse Dschughaschwili, covered by a pavilion in the Greco-Roman style, as well as his personal railroad car. A statue of Stalin and the palatial museum building complete the ensemble. There seems to be little room here for a critical examination of Stalin's actions. We continue towards the center, past the Reichstag of Gori (town hall built by German prisoners of war during World War II), and after a small rain-induced break, we return to the tent. Rango has found himself a new girlfriend on the way, with whom he romps around the tent for the rest of the day.

On Saturday morning (September 8, 2018), I arrange a small breakfast and some sweet milk for my coffee. During the morning, I finish the whole can of condensed milk, which weighs heavily on my stomach for the rest of the day. So, for digestive reasons, I extend my stay for one day and mostly rest in front of the tent.

On Sunday, it becomes clear that my discomfort was not solely due to the sweet milk, I have contracted a stomach flu. So, for the next few days, I mainly stay in bed, and on Friday I drag myself to the local clinic. After several ups and downs, there is no improvement in sight. After almost 6 hours and two infusions, I finally have a prescription for the pharmacy and can buy some medication. According to the translation app, I should return to the clinic for further treatment. Done. In the early evening, I go back to Rango, who had to wait for me in the tent. Counterproductive for my mattress again, the big guy has punctured it. After a small repair, I once again lie down. It will be a few more days before I am ready to travel again.