Kannur – Kozhikode - 94 km
Blown away by my Facebook posting of the previous day, it felt good to have such
incredible support. It must be mentioned, I wasn’t going to care for my mother. My
mom made it clear that she didn’t want her kids caring for her and didn’t want to
live with any of us. Her reasoning was sound and I agreed 100%. She wanted to
move to a nursing home and, as that is a significant decision, I merely wished to
assist where possible.
Feeling lethargic my day was a tad slow. The way wasn’t interesting except for
exploring Fort Thalassery and stopping at the many fruit and juice stands. I pushed
onwards to Kozhikode, where I assumed one could find beachside accommodation.
Sadly, that was not the case as accommodation along the beachfront was too
expensive and it was best to settle for an abode in the alleys.
Kozhikode – Guruvayur - 90 km
The Kerala coast wasn’t as exciting as envisaged. It felt like one long, drawn-out
village congested by hectic traffic and a narrow road, which didn’t run next to the
ocean. Maybe it was because I felt lethargic, which is always the case when cycling
for seven consecutive days. It felt as if I was coming down with bronchitis; not
surprisingly, taking the polluted air.
Kerala's people were immensely friendly, and greetings of “Welcome to Kerala!”
were extended. Usually followed by “What's your country?" and "What's your good
name?"
In India, the most frequently asked question must surely be, "What is the purpose
of your journey?" To which I feebly answered, “Only travelling”, leaving them
looking somewhat perplexed. "Only travelling..." was usually repeated with a head
wobble.