1st week – 25.10.2021

I have now been on the road for one week, have 500 kilometres and 5,850 metres of elevation in my legs, and have already experienced some really wonderful encounters.

In Switzerland, I was able to share parts of my route with two touring cyclists and one retired long-distance cyclist and exchange experiences with them. What I learned from these three is that small things can create a lot of comfort and cosiness. For example, how tea lights can make the atmosphere around the tent incredibly cosy in the evening, or how a small folding chair can turn every stop into a little place of relaxation. And that you should always allow yourself to enjoy something good along the way.

The ride to Italy was so much fun. The people really cheered me on everywhere. Especially the road cyclists — they all greeted me and gave me a thumbs-up when they overtook me on climbs or passed me from the opposite direction. It is incredibly motivating. I was also encouraged by people at customs or when passing cafés. The cycling community here is really amazing.

At the moment, I am in Italy, just before Monza, and I get to rest at my uncle’s cousin’s place and wash my clothes as well as dry my sleeping bag and tent. I am being spoiled with so much delicious food and sightseeing — thank you so, so much! Uwe also organised an extra groundsheet for my tent and helped me replace a broken spoke. This stop is doing me a lot of good. Even though I have not been travelling for that long yet, it is wonderful not to have to put up and take down the tent every day and then squeeze myself back into damp, sweaty clothes.

Yesterday, I was able to explore Monza — completely without my bicycle. Monza is a lovely, cosy city, but it is also very busy with people on weekends. It feels like a city that is truly alive. The cathedral is especially impressive. In recent years, the façade has been renovated, and now it shines beautifully again. Inside, it is a true work of art.

Uwe’s family is incredibly fascinating and interesting. The story of how he came to Italy, what his children are doing now, and where they live is very inspiring. It shows that it is worth following your own path and that many things are possible if you really want them and keep looking for a way.

I am excited to see what else is waiting for me. Tomorrow morning, I will continue my journey towards Lake Garda.