It’s wonderful being back on the road.
Getting a slow start, we left the Serbian capital after two o’clock. I had wanted to show Kelley and Isaac the T-shirt shop near the main shopping area of town, but became really crossed up as to where it was. These humbling moments come with regularity.
We stopped for caffeine and a bite to eat; my brain kicked in and we found the store. Of course, they were out of certain colors and sizes. Darn.
Empty handed, we made our way to the Danube bridge, getting on the wrong road only once. The way could have been more bicycle friendly (the pedestrian crossing was fairly broken on the approach), but at least we weren’t with automobiles.
To my surprise, the EuroVelo 6 signs led us away from traffic and onto some dirt dike roads immediately. In an urban area, I expect to battle traffic for awhile. We were instantaneously able to lower our heart rates.
After about twenty-five kilometers, the three of us pedaled over a picturesque bridge with hanging baskets into the town of Pancevo. At a train car cafe, we each ordered a liter of fresh-squeezed, mint lemonade (this is becoming usual). Later, we pedaled fifteen strokes down the street to a local brewery for dinner. The waiter was so relaxed and kind, we left a reasonably large tip.
We hit the road for another thirty-five kilometers, with the plan to camp at a site indicated on our maps. Misjudging the time, we cycled for the final ten kilometers in the dark on a dirt road. The insects were horrid. I bailed once, leaping free of the cycle as the wheels caught an unforeseen rut.
Listening to the "Drive" soundtrack and, in particular, "A Real Hero" by College and Electric Youth, pushed the pedals for me.
When getting into these absurd situations, I just start laughing. I’d rather be out here making idiotic memories than sitting at home.
Out of the darkness, street lamps materialized, lighting our way to a FREE campsite with showers.
Never doubt the magic of Serbia.
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