Getting Ready

It is always fun to get ready for a motorcycle trip in Europe.  It feels like the wanderlust bug has been hitting me hard in 2022 after so many months with restrictions during the pandemic. During the last 4 months alone, I have already been to Guatemala twice, Mexico thrice, Belize once and now Europe.

The last time I was in Portugal was in 1987 when Pam and I were newlyweds.  At that time we set out to explore all of Europe.  It was my first time ever.  Towards the end of our trip, we rented a car in Madrid and drove to Lisbon as we visited places like Toledo and several paradores.  

I remember the sense of awe and wonder at all the things I was seeing.  Especially in this part of Europe because of the direct impact and influence it had in the country and city I grew up in.  Mexico City's history, customs, culture, language, and the worldview it gave me, all of a sudden had more context, more color, and deeper meaning. I was connecting back in time to something that was very relevant to my own self.  

This time around, we are going to explore all of Portugal - the best roads, the best nature, the best places, the best food - with Armando, a native son.  Everybody knows that it is always best to visit new places with a local host ...  we lucked out because Armando also loves motorcycles!

Packing was very straight forward and easy. One bag, two pairs of underwear, and one shirt.  What else do you need : ).  After so many trips, packing felt familiar.  Like a routine is finally in place and solidly built into my DNA.