Rest Day in Dunhuang

The last two days riding coming into the city of Dunhuang was blissful with some great riding conditions. Of course, the wind was around, but very tolerable and the sun shone, the roads can only be described as beautiful and the riding ‘exceptionally good’ as Kiwi Brian would comment each day. While we had a bit of a cold night camped up high, the night before Danuang was very pleasant indeed and the desert was at its best, especially the sunrises and sunsets! Nothing beats those in the desert and it is amazing what a fire will do for a group’s spirits. That, the delicious meals, the stories, conversations and the drinks. As for the scenery, well not too many towns to ride through, and in those that we did, everyone stopped for snacks or for a meal. The desert landscape in this part of the world is very beautiful, with the mountain ranges rising up far off into the distance. Riding into Dunhuang was crazy. The minute the flagging tape was put up, it was pulled down. Sometimes the riders did a scenic tour of the city but all finally made it safely to the Fei Tien Hotel in good time to enjoy hot water and the night market as well as what the city is famous for – the dunes and the Buddhist Caves. The feel of this place is so laid-back, positive and happy that I think we may be hard pressed to get the riders to come with us tomorrow. We welcome back Gary and Richard who took a side journey to Tibet and bid farewell to Michiel and Brian, two awesomely strong riders who were good to have with us. Safe journeys home boys! Today we’re enjoying the sunshine, the comfy hotel rooms, the fact that someone else has done our laundry, some more delicious Chinese food and the chance to do some souvenir shopping too and see some incredible sights!