Tuesday, October 11, 2016

Final Day: Miami, Florida to Home, USA


Well, this will be my last blog entry.  A number of people have sent emails thanking me for the blog, wishing me well, and I truly appreciate those sentiments.  I started the blog for two reasons, one, to serve as personal diary and two, if I were to go missing, there would be a bread crumb trail for friends and family to locate what was left of me.  It was a pleasant surprise when it started being read around the world.  I am happy that people found it interesting enough to pass around the link and follow along.  

Well, it was one hell of a trip.  Over 12,000 miles (almost 20,000 km) and 14 countries.  I thoroughly enjoyed myself, and satiated this urge that has been gnawing in me for the past decade or so. I knew very little about South America before I left, and now I feel as though I understand the continent, and all it has to offer a bit better.  Outside of visa requirements and how to get around the Darrien Gap, I did very little research before I left, and that was by design.  I wanted to be able to experience the trip without preconceived notions, without prejudice.  As such, I did not plan a route, and I rarely knew where I was going until the night before.  This approach provided a new experience everyday and some unique surprises.

I met some of the nicest people during my travel's.  There are a number of adventure motorcyclists completing longer and much more impressive trips than myself. One individual I met has been on the road for over three years, visiting most every country on the planet. Others have spent almost a year touring South America alone.  A couple of guys were driving from the northern to the southern arctic circle. Large groups were on a two week guided escape from their daily grind.   All were very excited to talk about their adventures, and share their experiences. As my trip comes to an end, I wish those who are still on the road, and those just leaving on their adventures, the best of luck. Safe travels.

Final Trip Summary
Today's Leg: 338 miles (545 km)
Total Distance Traveled: 12,260 miles (19,774 km)
Total Borders Crossed: 14
Total Countries Visited: 14

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