This small country was our second pick for applying the UK work visa. We knew it would take a lot of time so this would be the last “cheap” place we had. While waiting we had a lot of free time to explore Bosnia (and the Herzegovina part as well!). Apart from the natural beauty, we saw remnants of war almost everywhere, but in Sarajevo … Continue reading Bosnia and Herzegovina’s Report Card
We had a really quick stay in Serbia. The culture changed slightly when we crossed the border from Bulgaria. Most other aspects of life were still very much the same except for being outside of the European Union. Serbia Capital: Belgrade Population: 7 millions Language: Serbian Currency: Dinar (65 = $1 NZ) Region: Balkans, Europe Province: 5 (2 visited) Random Fact: Nikolas Tesla was born … Continue reading Serbia’s Report Card
Bulgaria has surprised us in many ways. We originally wanted to cycle through in 10 days but ended up staying for two months! Our time here had been well spent, doing amazing things making our cycling journey so much more meaningful. We have written this report card to summarise our experiences, observations and hopefully give some insight into this small nation in Europe. Bulgaria Capital: … Continue reading Bulgaria’s Report Card
This country was our gateway to Europe and it provided us a pleasant transition from Asian to European culture. Everything from food, infrastructure and weather improved, giving us an enjoyable time in Turkey. We also tried hitchhiking for the first time and the result was great! Turkey A sneaky peek into this Eurasian nation: Capital: Ankara Population: 82 million Language: Turkish Currency: Turkish Lira (3.80 … Continue reading Turkey’s Report Card
This region was recommended by our New Zealand consulate to avoid at all cost. However, after speaking to many travelers that have passed through, they all said reassuring and positive things. Our time here has been eye-opening indeed, we’ve learned so much about the people, culture and the complicated political situation. Iraq Kurdistan A quick glimpse into this autonomous region: Capital: Erbil Population: 5.7 million … Continue reading Iraq’s Report Card
We spent the longest time in Iran than any other country on this trip. Partly due to winter and the amazing hospitality of the people. We’ve learned so much about the country, so it has been a valuable learning experience over these four months. Iran A quick glimpse into the country: Capital: Tehran Population: 81 millions Language: Farsi/Persian Currency: Rial (80,000 = $1 NZ) Region: … Continue reading Iran’s Report Card
What an interesting and quirky country to cycle through. This nation is very mysterious due to the restrictive visas available for tourists. Heck, we could only got 5 days. Disclaimer: this report card includes our travel in a campervan. Turkmenistan received a TCP/IP score of ★★★☆☆ Important Pointers People & Culture (PC) The people are very happy to see tourists, even though they get very … Continue reading Turkmenistan’s Report Card
So far the cheapest visa to get, the country could definitely get more visitors by allowing 30 days visa-free like Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan. Luckily the law regarding camping has been relaxed so we were able to enjoy the country on a tight budget. Important Pointers People & Culture (PC) When it comes to weddings, perhaps inviting a traveller or tourist brings good fortune because we … Continue reading Uzbekistan’s Report Card
We almost the skipped country, but we are absolutely glad it was included in our route. Initially we didn’t want to come here because of the visa cost, but was convinced to go by Teddy (our Malaysian cycling companion in Xinjiang), then reconsidered again after the tragic incident south of Dushanbe where four cyclists were killed. But after flip-flopping a few times made our way … Continue reading Tajikistan’s Report Card
For the 60-days free visa we got in Kyrgyzstan, we absolutely loved the opportunity to wander about around freely in this wild mountainous country. Important Pointers People & Culture (PC) Smiley locals waving as we pass by, asking where you’re from, where you’re going Eating at a local’s home is a must-try experience – there’s homemade bread and jam (from fruit grown in their backyard) … Continue reading Kyrgyzstan’s Report Card
Pedalling Continents 