About This Blog
Welcome to my blog, where I share my journey cycling through the vibrant
landscapes of Malaysia on our way from Thailand to Indonesia! Accompanied by,
Ernest Markwood, we embarked on a route filled with surprises, scenic views, andunforgettable experiences. While I can’t claim this is the ultimate cycling route, I hope
to give you a glimpse of our adventure and perhaps inspire your own!
The Distance:
Now, let’s talk about those daily distances! You see, our cycling didn’t always take usstraight from A to B; we enjoyed our fair share of delightful detours. Whether it was
meandering through local markets or searching for cosy places to rest, every pedal
stroke was counted. Trust me, my odometer was faithful, so you can be sure of the
kilometres clocked in each day—even if the route might not have been the most
direct!
Time of Year and Date
Join me in reminiscing about our Malaysian escapade from December 2009 to
February 2010. Keep in mind that things change! Roads can evolve with time—some
might have crumbled, while others have improved. And those hills? They may be lessdaunting now, but when we tackled them, they sure felt like mountains!
Insurance
Before you set off on your own adventure, let’s talk about safety. A solid travel
insurance policy is non-negotiable—it protects you against theft, loss, and medicalhiccups. Just be cautious! Some policies might exclude activities they label as
“dangerous.” While I don’t consider cycling to fall under that category, it’s always wise
to read the fine print!
Clothing:
We spent long days in the saddle, so comfort was key! Padded cycling shorts became
my second skin, and while I often cycled in ordinary sandals, your feet will thank you
for investing in comfortable footwear. The tropical heat means you won’t need heavy
clothing, but it doesn’t hurt to pack a light layer just in case. Don’t forget your
personal essentials like insect repellent and anti-chafe cream—the last thing you want
is discomfort spoiling your ride. Oh, and always wear a helmet—safety first!
The Bicycle and Equipment
Now, let’s talk rides! Comfort truly is king when choosing a bicycle. I roll with a sturdy
mountain bike featuring a Merida frame, reliable Shimano Deore parts, Alex wheelrims, and Schwalbe tyres. My Tubus bicycle racks paired with Ortlieb panniers may be
a touch pricey, but they’ve proven their worth many times over! Knowing how to fix a
flat is a crucial skill, so be prepared. A handlebar bag is also a lifesaver for keeping
your camera and essentials within easy reach while you soak in the sights. For
navigation, I swear by Organic Maps and Google Maps!
Recommended Further Reading
If you’re hungry for more travel inspiration, I highly recommend picking up a copy of
the Lonely Planet e-book. It’s budget-friendly and packed with handy tips to ensure
your own adventures are as thrilling as ours!