Let's get the dislikes out of the way first:
- Soulless B&Bs - I think I have undervalued the warmth of an Irish welcome. Over here, it just ain't the same.
- Soulless towns - yes, Ireland has its share, but there are some towns here that you'd just prefer to close your eyes to
- Logging trucks and RVs - I know the logging trucks have to do their transporting business, but are they ever scary? 18 wheels at a minimum, sometimes towing a trailer as big again, these monsters leave a definite impression as they fly by at 65mph. As for RVs? As big as inter-city buses and towing behind them a flatbed truck, a motor boat or both. Monsters.
- Dogs - I rest my case
- Hills, hills, hills - yes they're the variation that takes the boredom from 'same same' cycling. But they can go on - and on - and on. Two days ago I ascended 4500 feet - that's sea level to the top of Carrantuohill and 1,100 feet beyond.
- People not listening (more of that later too)
And the likes?
- the road surface - oh my God! hundreds of miles of it. Smooth. Even. Predictable. Cyclists will tell you just how magical it is to cycle on such a surface.
- breaking surf - miles and miles and miles of crashing surf. From Washington to Oregon to California. And they're deserted.
- hard shoulders - no, not cold shoulders. Often as wide as a traffic lane - lots of space to cycle and feel safe (notwithstanding the logging trucks and RVs)
- Redwoods - stunning - simply stunning.
- Cycle Shops - to die for! Huge. Airy. Fabulously stocked. With repair guys who know bicycles inside out.
- The Hospital System (as experienced) - I know you should not generalise from the particular, but my one encounter (and only one, I hope) was courteous, efficient, friendly and effective
- time - to Think. Reflect. Ponder. Be.
More to follow I am sure.
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