Start of the Sabbatical Adventure

Slowly, it is getting serious – 03.10.2021

It is becoming more and more real, and the departure date is getting closer and closer. My last day at work was already a few days ago, and moving out of the best shared flat is also done. It is always amazing how much stuff accumulates, even when you only have one room to fill. Now it is time to start packing and gathering all the necessary equipment. After my previous hikes, I have a pretty good idea of what I need and what I can leave behind. However, packing with bicycle panniers is completely new to me, as is all the additional equipment needed in case the bike breaks down and needs to be repaired. Luckily, I do not have to figure all of this out alone, as my boyfriend is helping me prepare and supporting me along the way.

I have already completed the first kilometres by bike, and so far, my bottom is holding up quite well. The rain gear has already had the chance to prove what it can do. This week, I still have a trial night camping in the garden at home with my new sleeping equipment planned. In addition, the cooking system still needs to be adjusted to the new pot. Apart from that, I still have to learn how to replace and repair various bike parts. All the organisational things, such as changing my registration, health insurance, and so on, also still need to be taken care of.

The last days before departure will definitely not be boring or relaxing.

Last preparations – 07.10.2021

What a chaotic few days. At least the to-do list is slowly getting shorter. My ID card has been renewed, my registration is sorted, I have found my first accommodation, and my clothes are packed. I have also completed my first bike repair training. I really hope I will not have too many flat tyres, because fixing them will definitely test my patience. During my very first tube change, I immediately damaged the new tube and broke the tool. So things are going great… but it will work out. Apart from that, the bike is almost ready; only small things like changing the pedals and attaching the chain guard and mounts still need to be done. When I am not lost in my packing chaos or working on the bike, I enjoy spending time with my family, my boyfriend, and my dog. Today, I am heading out with the camper one more time to remember the luxury of warmth and having a solid roof over my head.

Things usually turn out differently than planned – 10.10.2021

You really have to take life as it comes. You can make as many plans, preparations, and decisions as you want, but when your body says no, you simply have to adjust and react. Since this morning, I have had a sore throat and a feverish feeling. So I spontaneously decided to stay home and recover from this cold before starting my mountain and cycling adventure. Even though my stubborn side wanted something different. Everything happens for a reason, as my mum always says in situations like this. So today is all about relaxing and soaking up some sunshine.

Ready to go – 12.10.2021

My things are packed and ready for departure, but the start of the journey is delayed. The cold just does not want to go away. Like a good girl, I am taking plenty of vitamins and zinc. At least the sore throat has already disappeared, and luckily it is not Covid. So now I just have to wait until I am fit enough to cycle across the Alps to Italy. The weather forecast for the coming days is also looking better and better, so maybe this delay is actually a good thing and I will elegantly avoid the bad weather.

In any case, my luggage is fully packed and waiting to be attached to the bike so that the journey can finally begin.

Waiting patiently – 14.10.2021

The bike is packed and ready to go in the garage, waiting for departure. Today’s dreamlike mountain view has finally revealed its snowy secret – the mountains are completely white with snow. Hopefully, the cold will disappear quickly so that I can still cycle across the Alps.

As a little preview for camping, I tested my sleeping mat, sleeping bag, and cooking equipment inside my home over the past few days and found them suitable for the journey. From an equipment perspective, the trip can begin. I have also packed, unpacked, reorganised, packed again, and unpacked countless times, only to pack everything once more. I miscalculated the most when it came to food. While shopping, I must have been worried that I would not find any food along the way — or maybe I was just hungry in the supermarket. But it is done now, and nothing will be repacked again.

Departure – 16.10.2021

The day has finally arrived — the journey begins. Today, in perfect weather, I started from Lake Constance. Before leaving, I went on a beautiful walk in the wonderful morning atmosphere with my sister and our dog. Afterwards, accompanied by my stepdad, I went to visit my grandparents. They spoiled us with a huge breakfast one last time. They are simply the best — thank you both!!! My aunt also came by, which made me really happy! From there, well-fed and full of energy, my mum and I set off towards Switzerland. Behind the border, my dad was already waiting for us, and the two of them accompanied me for part of the route. It was so wonderful — this is exactly how a journey should begin, and the week of waiting was absolutely worth it!