außenalster

There are two large artificial lakes within the city limits of Hamburg, the larger one is called the außenalster. Both of these lakes were formed by the Alster River and now provide a beautiful venue for water sports and outdoor activities.

Although I did not have any plans for today, once again I found my feet had a mind of their own. I was soon walking along the linear parkland near the hotel and heading towards the lake. It turned out to be a perfect way to spend my last day in Hamburg.

Once again, the weather was absolutely perfect - sunny with a top temperature of around 25C. This was a huge contrast to the news we have been hearing about the wild weather that has been buffeting the southern states of Australia for the past four days. The weather here could not have been better, and we are all hoping that it will continue for the next 4 weeks.

Tomorrow we finally get to be acquainted with the bicycles which will be our daily conveyance all the way to Vienna. There is always an air of trepidation when you are waiting to see whether the bikes will be fit for purpose or not.

This afternoon I went through my luggage, sorting my gear and separating all the items that I will need for the ride. I managed to find everything, except for my cycling gloves. Although I was certain I could remember packing them, they appeared to have just vanished.

I pulled everything out of my case and started to go through every package, eventually finding that the missing gloves had been packed with my socks. I wonder which moron did that ? Oh, I remember, it was me.Read more