As well as getting the bike ready, I have to think about fitness and health. So, I'm in the gym a few times a week and I am getting all my jabs up to date: rabies, meningitus, polio etc. Not too sure which anti-malarial tablets to use. I think not Larium. And I need visas for both Sudan and Ethiopia before we leave. I have put the papers in to the Sudanese Embassy in London and keep fingers crossed that there will be no problems. Any doubts arise because I was born in Jerusalem and sometimes countries tend to be a bit precious about that. But there is nothing I can do to change my birthplace and I will hope that the paperwork comes through. I have booked the flight for me and bicycle, Birmingham to Cairo, with Lufthansa. Can't go BA now because I understand they won't take bicycles.
When I rode across Canada I wore an old pair of trainers. After much advice I have invested in clipless pedals and shoes, which are supposed to improve efficiency by some 25%. The first time I tried them out, the bike came to a halt with feet still firmly attached to pedals and I did a good mime of a felled tree. Compo, Cleg and Foggy would have been proud!

3 WEEKS TO GO.
I guess that I am just about ready. After 3 trips to London I now have visas for Sudan and Ethiopia,which is a relief. The bike is in for a complete overhaul and should be ready this week. All injections are done and I just need to get the malarial tablets. So everything is coming together. Chance now to enjoy Christmas with all the family.
Home With a Bit of Snow.