How I'm getting from Nordkapp to CapeTown
Norway
The journey began from Nordkapp, Europe’s most Northerly point.
Cycling in Norway is not easy. It was cold and full of mountains. I set off in April and got to experience some snow and ice. Why go to the arctic circle in the summer? For me, a wannabe explorer, the cold conditions made the experience more genuine.
Finland
In Finland I cycled across the Arctic circle as I made my way South. There were several cycle routes traversing the country, although I didn't manage to pick up on any of them. The land is quite flat, with many forests.
Estonia
After surviving on meagre rations in expensive Finland, I splurged and bought the first beers of the trip in Talin. In my opinion Estonia is the most modern and developed of the Balkan states, finding English speakers was not a problem here.
Latvia
Not dramatically different from Estonia, but it is more rural. In fact since 2001, Latvia's chief export has been Domestic Livestock. (Wikipedia)
Lithuania
When talking to locals it emerges that the communist past is not forgotten. People speak Russian as a second language, and have retained traits, such as a culture of very heavy drinking.
Poland
My expectations of Poland were not high. So when I found Poland to be a developed, clean and very friendly country I was surprised and impressed. I had no troubles finding camping places in farms and was almost always fed and watered.
Slovakia
Hungary
Romania
Bulgaria
Random fact: Bulgaria has international dialing code 359
Turkey
Turkey won the Eurovision Song contest in 2003
Syria
Jordan
Egypt
Perhaps most famous for its Pyramids, which I am very keen to visit.
Sudan
Apart from the Darfur conflict I know little about Sudan, and am keen to explore it.
Ethiopia
Ethiopia is Africa's second most populas nation.
Ethiopia is well known for its long distance runners.
Ethiopia is the home of the endangered Ethiopian Wolf, of which fewer than 500 remain today.
I may encounter an Ethiopian "rainy season" from mid june to mid september. This may be a good opportunity to cool off after the heat of the desert, but I will need to look out for thunderstorms, flash floods and in-passable roads.
Kenya
Kenya is my most highly anticipated country.
The "Big Five" can be found in Kenya: the Lion, Leopard, buffalo, rhinoceros and elephant.
Kenya is the home of the Maasai culture.
Tanzania
Tanzania is the home of Mt Kilimanjaro, which I would like to climb.
I saw a TV programme about man eating Lion's in Tanzania, so I will take a big stick with me, just in case.
Malawi
Mozambique
South Africa
CapeTown and the end of the road, hopefully I will arrive in time for the 2010 FIFA World Cup