A Katoy Buddha?

October 19th, 2001 at 12:00am

Well, after our first “real” day of biking, I can honestly say this – Thailand needs better emission regulations! The first 2 hours of riding were probably nice and scenic but I could barely see through my burning eyes and was too busy concentrating on my burning skin – all from the thick black smoke billowing out of every car, truck, and motorbike that passed. Aside from that though it was a great day. The road was very flat which made for easy riding – a good way to ease into the tour. So far there has been a nice shoulder on the road and the asphalt is very well maintained with almost no debris in our path. Kathy said the roads were better here than in Ontario! Cloud cover this morning sheltered us from the hot sun for most of the ride. We took a break in Ang Thong at an internet place where we paid about 45 cents for an hour online. The afternoon was hotter once the sun came out but to our surprise it didn’t rain (yet).

We have not seen any tourists anywhere today so I’d say that we’re pretty well off the beaten path. Kathy and I were both pleased that our riding pace seems very compatible – something that is so important in a good riding partner. I took one photo along the way of me in front of a giant Buddha that looked like it had boobs so we called it a “Katoy” Buddha.

We are definitely a bit of a show for the locals – everywhere we go we are watched for sure. So far though the Thai people have been very friendly and helpful – many people wave as we ride by and people have helped us with our bikes on the train and in towns. The cars are also very considerate when they pass by giving us plenty of room.

Miles biked today: 46.62

The ‘Katoy’ Buddha

Entry Filed under: Cycling,North,Thailand