Jour 11: El ponchero

Day 11: El ponchero

I leave around 8:00 after enjoying a good breakfast to face the big challenge of the day... On the road I barter with a lady. I give him soap and other hotel stuff in exchange for three mangoes. I know the road will not be easy today, because 7 years ago I rented a Jeep to drive 160 km it took 4 hours to get there. Today I plan to do 100 km in six hours. The road is breathtaking. I lose two screws that hold my pedals. I finally understood the expression lose the pedals... Fortunately, a Cuban helps me to replace everything. I give him a 5 Cuc (125 Cup). The gentleman is very happy!!! Then I bathe a little in a place on the side of the road. After my little swim, I realize that I have a puncture. Luckily again, I ask passers-by if "el ponchero" that is to say the one who repairs the tires... lives nearby. Luckily, he lives nearby. This is an amazing little movie!!! Cubans are so resourceful! https://youtu.be/hTpwfNWSgUo He repaired five punctures for me. I give him 10 Cuc (250 Cup). He is jubilant... After 500 meters I have another puncture. I have understood over time that I have to stay away from the thorns that are often present on the side of the roads. I'm learning!!! Roads are almost non-existent. I finally arrive at Marea del Portillo I rest after this long day! I go to bed very early... Mission accomplished.
If you can't find the way, make your own way!!
David Beauchesne www.fast123.ca