Just 3 mi to cross into Greece, and Turkish hospitality still continues. These lovely people invited me to have one last drink before leaving Turkey. They were so loving and asked if I had a good time in Turkey.
Amazing country full of the kindest people. I entered Turkey on 9th April, and after 15 days of cycling 1,800 km through Turkey, I will be leaving the country today for another new country. More kindness and more new experiences await.
Freedom Seat will be in its 6th country in less than 30 minutes. Will miss Turkey 🇹🇷 a lot.
Entering a country human powered, with everything you need on you and with no plans, is exhilarating, and the uncertainty is thrilling.
My lovely Turkish hosts finally let me go after showering me with all the love and kindness. I was at the Pazarkule border crossing in Turkey at 6:30 pm. Since sunset is around 7:50 pm, there’s light until 8:30 pm.
The border crossing went smoothly. The officer on the Greek side was joking, telling me that they have a German officer in the team and that I should take him with me to Germany. “Welcome to Greece,” they said as they stamped my passport and wished me luck.
Kastanies is a tiny village along the border with a few shops and cafes. I looked at the offline map and saw the river Arda. I started my hunt along the river for a billion-star hotel and found an amazing spot.
After pitching the tent, I walked up to the nearest cafe to get some food. John, an employee at the cafe, had noticed me pushing a tandem and pitching the tent, and asked me what my story was.
After getting me a good meal he gave me three bottles of water and a bag of croissants and said, “This is for the road from me.” Such a sweet gesture of kindness.
Greece is the 6th country of Freedom Seat, and I have logged 5,995 km so far. Thank you for all your support and love. You are amazing!