From the Salt Mine

So, this is probably the most unusual place I've blogged from: underground several hundred feet in a huge chamber dug from solid rock in a former salt mine in Praid, Romania. It has now been turned into a tourist attraction and spa, with a playground, ping pong tables, a church, and a couple of small shops. And of course an internet cafe, which is actually the first I've seen in a couple of days. All a bit surreal.

Anyhow, I finished up traveling around with friends(mostly in Romania, with a trip of several nights in Istanbul), and spent a few days relaxing in Bucharest. Then I caught a train to Piatra Neamt and started traveling by bicycle on my own once again. Given that it has been quite a while since I've done much cycling, I've been taking it pretty easy, not covering much ground, slowly getting back into touring shape.

But the scenery has been great, including passing through the Bicaz Gorge and climbing through the mountains. Followed by crossing the plains and more mountains. I'm taking a rest day today, to visit the salt mine and the lake at Sovata (where I am staying tonight), and also to do a bit of minor work and maintenance on the bike.

From here, the plan is to ride through Maramures for another week or so, then start heading back towards Paris, probably with a couple of stops on the way.