Sinop

The bus ride to Samson was great and got us through what would have been a day riding in a torrential downpour.  Since getting off the but the weather has been good and the country side is a lot like a cross between Marin Country and the San Jauquin (sp) valley in California.  Rolling hills, lots of agriculture and especially today narrow roads with considerable traffic.

After leaving Samson we have hit  a spell of good weather and the views have been spectacular of the Black Sea, fishing villages and endless hills.  Just when we think we've topped out the hill continues.  The downhill sides always seem too short.  We thought we had an easy 50 k ride today into Sinop, a beautiful fishing village founded in the 8th century BC, riding along the coast.  WRONG  Hill after hill after hill and there was no coastal route available.  However we have found a nice LITTLE room just 40 TL and just meters off the water  Where did the period key disappear to. oh there it is again!!  After endless hills we had a long downhill into town and then more downhill to the water and our hotel with a great view of the harbor = only south facing harbor on the Turkey Black Sea coast.  Tomorrow we'll continue our ride east, with favorable weather forecast per WeatherUnderground.  Yesterday my front pannier fell off during a rough section of road construction thru some little town and last night I was able to temporarily fasten it on with a zip tie and it seems to be holding.  Fortunately I should have a new pannier by the time we get to Ankara.

I'll try downloading some pictures but have had trouble on the last few computers getting the computer to recognize the camera.  Trust us that the scenery is great as are the photos.  It may not be until Ankara that we can get pictures downloaded but we'll keep trying.  If there are some here with this blog you're in luck.

We are doing fine and enjoying the ride.  Hope to find some fresh cheap Balik for supper tonight!!

Stan