Crossing Into Turkey

When we set off on our 24,000 mile bike ride Turkey felt like it was so far away and yet on 24th June we arrived!

We approached the border expecting this to be our first proper search, but like all borders we’ve experienced so far it was very relaxed.

Unlike Albania and Macedonia we couldn’t find the walking border so we stayed in line with the cars. The queue was short. We handed over our first visa of the trip and we were waved across the border. Now I always find this part of the border a little confusing. There’s always another stop line…so we stopped and waited awkwardly. A cleaner waved us on, but there was no way we were going to cross the line on the instruction of the cleaner. We stood their awkwardly, trying to catch the eye of one of the border police. Eventually one came over and waved us on and directed the traffic to follow us. That was it! We were in Turkey!

When we cross the border I always look for a sign to grab a photo of the milestone. The blue sign in the background of this picture reads “welcome to Turkey”. It’s the best I could get.

I’m always really proud of Stew when we get to a major trip milestone. I look at the miles covered and feel proud that he’s successfully and safely navigated us. He does it alone, as navigation is not my skill! He manages all types of road from quiet country roads to busy cities and he keeps us safe, opting for the scenic, longer and safer route where possible. I wouldn’t be doing this trip if it wasn’t for Stew, he is the thinker, the planner, the motor and best of all, he is the best person I can think of to share such an adventure with.

#worldbybike #biketheworld #biketouring #fullyloaded #travelbybike #bikeadventure #bikewander #humanpowered #humanpoweredadventure #pedalpower #turkey #visitturkey