After work, went shopping for provisions. Tried a yaroa, a fast food item I've seen on Dominican cafeteria menus. Turned out to be a hot mess of french fries, cheese, and other stuff.
Rode/walked up the first part of the hill. Slow-going, interrupted by a thunderstorm, but still I made better headway than expected. Now around halfway up the hill.
Camped out, one of the quieter spots I've found in a while. Woke up early again.
I had been concerned about the route being remote. I prepared by carrying more food and water than I ordinarily would. However, the situation was opposite: I hardly got away from the buildings and vehicles! Even came across numerous luxury vehicles. I guess it makes sense, this road leads from a bigger inland city to the sea.
Next I aim to finish the walk/ride into town. Then, get some more work done!
Tons of hardships along the way, but they build character, and they can even be kind of fun!
Also, tons of pleasures along the way!
I like the geography of RD. Tons of tropical plants, including numerous edible ones. I picked up a bunch of guava, etc., yesterday. The vitamin C, sugar, water, fiber, etc., may only represent small amounts. However, the taste is amazing, and the thrill of finding and eating such food is rewarding!
I continue to find country people friendlier than city folk.
My legs are somewhat sore from the walking & riding. Still, my body is holding up and performing way better than expected! Often the humidity makes me hurt. Now I'm doing fine.
Looking at the weather here in the mountains, it rains more, it's not as hot during the day, and it's cooler at night. I guess that explains different populations.
Made it to the peak!
Now a scary downhill ride.
Made it!
There's something exhilarating about large achievements, like climbing over a mountain!
My brakes barely worked. I had to manually pull on the front cable, hurting my hands, to slow down.
Now in the satellites of Santiago de Los Caballeros!