It’s
been a busy few weeks in southern California, working, saving our money, and
getting ready for the trip. We’ve had a
few exciting developments recently.
1) Finally we’ve figured out a
basic route through South America! After looking though our maps, researching
cool national parks and historical sites, reading stories from other cycle
tourist who have gone through the area, and talking to our friends who have
lived or visited these places, we’ve been able to develop a basic plan of
attack. At times we’ll be following the
Pan-American Highway, but for most of the time we’ll be off exploring other
destinations. To be honest, much of this
route is subject to change based on local conditions and recommendations, but
it’s a good place to start.
2) We’ve tested the SPOT!
We’ve figured out how to personalize the messages we’d like to send on our SPOT
GPS device, and successfully sent text and e-mail messages. This little orange
guy is going to be a great asset to our trip because it will allow our families
and friends to track our progress on a detailed digital map as we travel.
3) We’ve been researching
required vaccinations and travel insurance. Vaccinations are pretty straightforward, but
there are a plethora of insurance options out there, and it’s going to be a
challenge finding the right one.
Whatever we pick, it looks like we’re going to have to spend some money getting some medical insurance coverage and immune
system boosting before our departure.
Both worth the cost in the long run.
4) Most exhilarating: we bought plane flights! It’s official. We both now
have flights to Deadhorse, Alaska for June 6th. I love one-way plane tickets. Adventure is in the works.
As
soon as we get our REI dividend back, we’re going to be finalizing our gear and
preparing for an epic spring break trip
(the week of April 12th) involving biking to and backpacking
in Kings Canyon National Park. It will
be the first true test of our gear and endurance. We can’t wait.