Shangri-La – Yongsheng
15th May 2014 285km 4’C-34’C
Shangri-La – Yongsheng
It was a crisp 4’C on leaving Shangri-La this morning. I put on an extra layer along with winter gloves, and was thankful for the luxury of heated handgrips. The only thing I wished I had was warmer socks, as my toes were cold until after lunchtime.
Riding along the plateau through the villages with Tibetan houses made for a brilliant morning. I very much like the solid style of the homes, the simple design and natural materials, although I’m sure they are still very cool inside during winter.
We descended down from the plateau, starting out at 3400M and quickly were down at 1300M, where the temperature was much more forgiving at around 21’C, although soon after lunch it reached 34’C. All the additional layers came off and the winter gloves packed away again as I started to sweat.
We passed a beautiful town with many rice paddies shimmering in the late afternoon sun.
As has been a frequent occurrence, on riding into Yongsheng town, my rear tyre went flat again. It seems that the problem occurs once the tyre heats up, which is towards the end of the day. I suspect it is a crack in metal part of the valve stem, that once expanded, leaks out the air. After checking into the hotel, I removed the wheel again, and threw away the tube, replacing it with another one. Hopefully that is the end of this daily repeated drama.
A delicious dinner of Yunnan cuisine tonight was very enjoyable, followed by a walk around the town square, watching the local dancing and being watched and laughed at by the locals. Again, it seems not too many foriegners visit this part of China, and we were the source of much curiosity and humour. Lots of people saying either “Nihao” or “Hi!” and then cracking up laughing. One girl I passed on the street even said “Hi, I love you!” Another girl from the university in Kunming approached us and kindly welcomed us to her town. The people here are especially friendly, and it is very nice to be made so welcome.
Ever considered getting “solid” tires?
It wouldn’t be a bad idea! Except very uncomfortable
Looks like you finally got your wish – a break from Sichuan cuisine! How is the new tube faring?
I got a break… But now I’m in Sichuan, so it will be Sichuan for the next week or more! :-). Which will be good. I just want to eat in the region I’m in. Tube is holding up fine, but I still need to source more spares, as it is now, I have none!