Portugal declines Australian travellers so it's back to France!

 After booking flights to Lisbon, spending countless hours researching bike routes on the Camino, and even more hours trying to locate camping grounds, Portugal has decided to decline entry to Australians except for essential travel. The only option was flying into a third country and then crossing into Portugal. Given the complications of COVID testing and time constraints, I have decided that Portugal is too complicated for 2022 but will remain on my must-do cycle tour list. Hopefully in 2023!

So.......

It's back to France! 

For those who follow me, you will already know that I always feel like I'm going home when I travel to France. It is this deep affinity I have with the land and the people, even though my French language is poor. My great Uncles are buried in Northern France and perhaps that is why I feel so drawn to this country. I also have my dearest friend Elodie there and I can't wait to see her. The last time I was in France was 2019 when I did my first solo tour, on which Elodie joined me for part of the trip. 

After some frantic flight changes and route planning, I have come up with a plan! This might look like a long trip but there are trains invovled! 

The itinerary is flexible to a point but timing is tight due to flights. Any issues and I'll jump on a train. So the almost 1300km will likely turn into 1500km by the time you add in getting misplaced and sightseeing, supermarkets, etc. 

I can't wait to get on the road again. Cycle touring is such a wonderful way to travel. It's hard, but so worth it!