Despite the ongoing problems with the heat and 8 days of Danube headwind, both boys made sound progress of some 80 miles+ eastwards along Romania's southern border. As a result, Bob has now reached Corabia and Mark is in Calafat - both cities on the northern bank of the Danube. To the south lies Bulgaria and the final country they will need to pass through before entering Turkey and journey's end at Istanbul.
Another immensely tiring day, made worse by the absence of signage and guidebooks that leave a lot to be desired. What began as a mere suspicion has now been confirmed: the people who write these guidebooks have never actually cycled them. Grossly inaccurate information: wrong distances; and long steep hills that do not get a mention, are reminiscent of the cycling quangos back in the UK who devise routes with the unexpected result of putting people off cycling. And when the suggested route is infested with heavy goods traffic, a lifetime fear of cycling can be easily envisaged.
Horse on the limitless Romanian plains
Romanian Gnomes for sale in Calafat
Soon, the boys will have to leave the Danube and cycle across Bulgaria towards Turkey. The Mistral-like headwind may accelerate that decision. But for now, Bob and Mark continue to ride eastward and aim to make Istanbul by the end of next week.
Sorry Robbo it was a tough day for your birthday. Anyway not so far to go now. If you get a chance let us know what you think of the family get together
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