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Route 13

12/22/2013

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Distance so far: 695km

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Heading down the major artery of the country over the last few days has been immense fun. In most other places in the world for such a windy dirt road to be the route through which all must travel would be unthinkable. More remarkable, however, is the lack of traffic seen so far.

China and Thailand use the country as a trade route, and it is surprising that no serious motorway has been built to traverse the dramatic mountain scenery in the way. Perhaps a third of the vehicles we have seen, not counting motorbikes, have been Yunnan or Hunnan registered.

The riding has been tough, and with a few stretches of up to 40km uphill my legs are feeling it. With that come some quite breathtaking views, of course, and pedalling through rustic mountain-top villages looking out over huge drops has been a real highlight.

We are resting for a day in Luangprabang, with a magical hotel room overlooking a beautiful golden temple in the heart of the UNESCO World Heritage Site. I suspect I might not feel like moving with the cold mist hanging over the city first thing tomorrow morning. Route to be decided over a couple of Beer Laos this evening, but watch this space...

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    Andy Clapperton

    Part-time teacher, full-time lover of all things adventurous, some might say even a little crazy...

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    @andyclapperton

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"Life is like riding a bicycle. To keep
your balance you must keep moving."

- Albert Einstein  

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@andyclapperton

  • Home
  • About
  • Rides
    • Central Asia 2019
    • The Alps 2017
    • East Africa 2016
    • Alps & Pyrenees 2014
    • Laos 2013
    • UK Off-Road 2013
    • The Great Divide 2012
    • Thailand 2011
    • Indonesia 2011
    • The Eastern Silk Road 2010
    • Yunnan 2010
    • Thailand 2009
    • SE China 2009
    • Ethiopia 2007
    • Beijing - London 2005-06
  • Other Travels
    • Japan 2017
    • Hawaii 2017
    • South Africa 2016
    • Tiger Leaping Gorge 2013
    • India 2012
    • Kenya 2010
    • Tanzania 2008
    • China 2003-13
  • Bikes
    • Krampus
    • Cross-Check
    • Rockhopper
  • Links