Hey there, road warriors! Mario checking in again, this time with the day’s scoop. And by that, I mean that today was the day chosen to cross the Italian Cappadocia. A name that aligns with the riding further down the line in Turkey. Naming coincidences unnoticed by the route planner.
Starting the Day:
So, let’s rewind a few hours, shall we? Remember that “hotel” from last night? Well, I promised I’d give you the verdict, and here it is: cheap and cheerful, my friends! It was conveniently located smack dab in the center, just 2 minutes from the Civitavecchia Ferry, and, best of all, clean as a whistle. The motorcycle was untouched, so I guess it’s a… Score!
On the Road Again:
The day kicked off with one mission in mind: head south to Brindisi and catch the ferry to Vlore in Albania. But you know me, I’m not one to just ride for the sake of getting to the destination. So, I decided to take a little detour to check out the Cascata delle Marmore and swing by the local “Cabo da Roca”, the Sunday speedsters’ racetrack.
Here was I thinking that I was up for some amazing views of Lago Campotosto. Little did I know that my detour would lead to an unexpected participation in the local unofficial Ile of Man race.
Meeting Jorge:
The highlight of my day? Meeting Jorge. I bumped into him near Áquila, where he was planning to spend the night. After the customary honk at my Portuguese license plate, he signaled for us to pull over and grab a bite to eat. And boy, am I glad he did!
Helmets off, and the motorcycle travel magic happens. Jorge turns out to be this 82-year-old legend who embarks on solo motorcycle adventures every year with his trusty R1200GSA. Over lunch, he regaled me with incredible stories from his travels. To top off this amazing lunch, he insisted on picking up the tab, reasoning that since he doesn’t speak English, Italian, or even use his phone except to call home once a day, my ability to speak Portuguese meant I deserved a free meal. What a guy!
After our heartfelt goodbye, each of us went on our separate paths. I, loaded up with gadgets and GPS devices, while he had nothing but a map and his old-school flip phone tucked away in his bag. I hit the road again, feeling grateful for the encounter. So, if you are reading this: Thank you, Jorge. It was a great pleasure!
Back on Track:
Resuming my journey to Brindisi, I veered off the highways, opting instead for scenic routes and scouting for campsites to set up camp for the night.
And guess what? Another pleasant surprise awaited me!
Kokopell Camping Retreat:
For just 15€, I got the whole shebang – cold beers, homemade wine, fresh eggs, and access to a fully equipped kitchen. Dinner? Chicken soup made from scratch, with those fresh eggs saved for breakfast. Talk about a steal!
Well, that’s it for now, folks. Stay tuned for more tales from the road. Until next time, ride safe and keep the adventures coming!
