Asia
A SILK ROAD BIKE RIDE
Every year countless adventurers, truckers and locals take to the Silk Road, each on their own pilgrimage along this ancient marvel that stretches half the world. Connecting Muslim lands with the people of Europe, India and China, the Silk Road brought the world together not unlike the internet today. Not only did its travellers trade silk, they inevitably traded ideas, cultures and genes! My own journey has seen me through ten countries, starting India, then, travelling via China and Mongolia, to the Stan's and ending in Georgia.
Wake up, pack, make breakfast, cycle three hours, cook lunch, cycle four hours, unpack, prepare tea, cook dinner, go to bed. You might go months without a warm shower, only washing yourself and your clothes in cold rivers and surviving on nothing but rice and carrots. You will endure hardships; cold nights shivering in your tent, hours of gruelling uphill gravel roads, arguments, diahorrea horrors. Not to mention the torrent of troubles that can arise with your gear. So why do it? Because of the reward of connecting to remote areas and the people who live there.
"I am continually amazed, and in awe of the fascinating variety of minds, styles and personalities on display in the world."
On my bike, I am constantly immersed in my environment and encouraged to connect with other people. I’m so glad that I overcame my fear of approaching strangers, talking to them and taking their portrait. What was once an intimidating task of approaching a stranger has become one of the most meaningful parts of my journey. I meet so many characters along the way and I am very happy that I have immortalised a few to show the world, and remind myself they exist. Often, I look back on my portraits, instantly taking me back to the moments we shared together. I wonder what in the world they are doing right now?
You can follow the rest of my journey on Instagram @jeremyj0hn
