Offered Help and Quiet Moments

Daily miles: 31.5 | Total miles: 10,926.91

I woke up a little more rested than yesterday, though still tired. The mosquitoes had been a bit troublesome during the night. When I left the hotel just before 7 am, it was a beautiful morning. The sun was rising, and the colors of the ocean and sky were stunning.

Just about a mile in, I met four bike riders. After that, the encounters kept coming. So many people stopped to ask about my run, curious and genuinely interested. Many offered help in every possible way—rides in a car or on a motorbike, phone numbers to call in case I needed anything, or simply the question, “How can I help?” It’s incredible how much support is offered so freely. In no other country have people offered me this level of help. In South Korea, people were very supportive, and here in India they are supportive, helpful, hospitable, and endlessly curious.

I stopped at a temple for a morning coffee and really enjoyed that moment. Sitting in a café with locals, sharing a small slice of time together, is something I truly cherish on this journey. Later in the day, I stopped again for coffee and simply observed my surroundings, letting the world pass by.

This evening, I’m staying in a hotel where a large event is taking place, with loud music filling the air. It’s wonderful to catch glimpses of religious celebrations and local life like this, even when I’m just passing through. The afternoon was warm and calm. I sat in the restaurant, had a lassi, and drifted into my thoughts for a while. The waiter wanted to talk, but I didn’t really feel like it today. So instead of eating there, I had dinner delivered to my room later.

I’m feeling a bit nervous about getting everything organised for the next transition. There is always so much to think about and prepare. But for now, it’s time to rest.

Thanks for checking in, and see you tomorrow. Andrea