Ust-Sema – Катунь (Katun)

9th July 2014     28-30’C     123km
Ust-Sema – Катунь (Katun)

I woke up at 11:30am, sporting a vicious hangover from the festivities of the night before and the overflowing Russian vodka.
Although the very kind owner of the property had foreseen that I would feel like this, and immediately put a warm bowl of chicken noodle soup in front of me, indicating that chicken soup is THE remedy for Russian vodka induced hangovers.  It certainly helped, and the kind hospitality is really amazing.
By the time I’d had my soup breakfast, packed and was ready to say goodbye, it was well after midday.
Goodbyes were said, along with big hugs from both the owners, a few photos taken and I was waved off, with a heartfelt request that I come back and stay with them again.  I hope that one day I can. I’ve again met some of the nicest people in the world.

I needed to fill up the bike with fuel, along with refilling the chain oiler. Owing to the long line of cars at the petrol station it was soon 1pm, and I’d only travelled a kilometre.  I decided to make it a short day, and rode to Katun, only 100km away.  With a short stop for late lunch of pork shashlik, I found a place to stay, right beside the river in a small log cabin.  The proprietor showed me the room, and then walked me around to show me the common kitchen, showers and toilets before asking if it was all ok, and indicated that the room was 600 rubles. I handed over the money, parked the bike and settled in.  I’d only been sitting outside by the river for a few minutes when she came to get me, and took me to the bike, pointing at the flag & Lotus stickers and giving me a big smile and thumbs up.  She then gave me the 600 rubles back, saying something about the kitchen. (kitchen was the only word I understood in her explanation) I’m confused, but I think she just gave me the room for free.  Russian hospitality knows no limits again!

I had a ‘conversation’ with a couple of Russian guys, using Google Earth and a notepad, as they asked questions about where I’d been, was going and how long and how far.  They also wanted to know if I’d had any trouble or been in any fights!  I told them I’ve only fought with the roads in Mongolia, and that wasn’t really a fight, as if it was, then Mongolian roads would have won.

In taking a short walk around town, I tried to buy a piece of chocolate cake from a cafe, but the lady owner wouldn’t take my money, and insisted that I take the cake, without payment.  Russian hospitality passes down on me yet again.

I’m now sitting by the river as the sun goes down.  I’ve been offered whiskey by a pair of Russian couples, but I told them I can’t drink for medical reasons, pointing to my liver.
I can’t do another night like last night.  Yet.