The U.S. leg begins on the Pacific coast in Los Angeles, heading north along the California coastline to San Francisco, before turning inland toward Lake Tahoe and the Sierra Nevada.

From there the route climbs over the Sierra Nevada, passing near Reno, before continuing east through Utah, with a short detour south to visit Monument Valley, and then on into the Rocky Mountains of Colorado — the highest elevations of the entire crossing.

After the Rockies, the terrain gradually flattens as the route moves across the central United States — through Kansas, Missouri, Illinois, Indiana, and Ohio.

The final stretch continues through Pennsylvania, crosses into New York State, and then heads into New England, finishing on the Atlantic coast in Boston.

Where possible, I’ll aim to follow sections of Adventure Cycling’s recommended routes, which are designed specifically for long-distance bike travel across the U.S.

In total, the route runs coast-to-coast, and crossing a wide range of landscapes — coastal roads, mountain passes, high desert, farmland, and eastern forests.

The route will involve around 436 hours of riding, with 46,690 metres of climbing. To make the mountain sections easier, I’ll be shipping about 11kg of non-essential gear from Los Angeles to Boston, including my laptop, so the bike is as light as possible for the Sierra Nevada and the Rockies!

The Journey So Far – Live Tracker Provided by TravelMap

My 35,000 km journey began in January 2024 in North Wales, cycling south through England before crossing the Bay of Biscay by ferry into Northern Spain.

From there I rode across the Basque Country, along the south of France, through Italy and Croatia, and into Eastern Europe, eventually reaching Turkey.

Continuing into Asia, I cycled through Georgia and across Central Asia, riding through Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan.

From there I flew to India with another cycle tourer I’d met on the road. Together with a few other friends we cycled through parts of India and Nepal, before I continued on to Southeast Asia, riding solo through Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, and Vietnam.

The journey then continued in Australia, where I rode a 2,000 km winter stretch of the east coast from Brisbane to Melbourne.

Time in Thailand

Since September 2025, I’ve been based mostly in Thailand, taking a break between continents and using the time to reset a few things.

During this period I quit alcohol and nicotine, started running regularly, and focused on improving my health and daily routine to better reflect the lifestyle and discipline I want to carry into my thirties.

I also passed my Thai driving licence and spent a month on the road completing a 5,000 km road trip around Thailand.

Alongside this, I’ve been quietly working on a new business project, using the time to think clearly and prepare for the next phase of life after the ride.

More than anything, this period has been about reorganising my life and preparing for what comes next once the journey finishes.

After Boston

Reaching Boston will mark the end of the cycling tour after 21,000 km of actual riding, and 36,420 km in total including continental flights and the occasional train.

After Boston, I’ll return to the UK to launch a business I’ve been quietly developing during the journey.

It’s a first-of-its-kind project designed to solve a real problem and help a lot of people. Something I’m genuinely excited about.

Crossing the United States will mark the end of the ride, and the beginning of building something new. More to come!

If You’re Along My Route

If you live somewhere along the route and would like to meet while I pass through, feel free to comment below or send me a message. I’ll do my best to link up along the way.

Ciao for now!
Ben Clark

Check out my links:
https://linktr.ee/worldbybikeuk
Follow on Instagram
Follow on Strava
Podcasts I’ve spoken on
Support my Coffee Addiction

The problem is not that Michelin’s inspectors have suddenly lost their taste. It is that Michelin has created a branding system that actively misleads diners and warps incentives in tourist-driven economies like Thailand. It does this through something far more damaging than bad judgement: confusion.

One brand, three completely different meanings

Michelin has collapsed three different things into a single visual signal: Michelin stars, Bib Gourmand awards, and simple Michelin Guide recommendations. In Michelin’s own taxonomy these are distinct categories. In the real world, they collapse into one idea because they share the same prestige branding.

To the public, all of these are simply “Michelin.” To tourists, Google reviewers, and influencers, there is no visible difference between a star, a Bib Gourmand, or a basic recommendation. A red Michelin badge reads as “elite restaurant,” regardless of what was actually awarded.

Michelin knows most diners do not understand the taxonomy. They never did. They only know the brand. Restaurants know this too, and once the logo appears, there is no incentive to correct the misunderstanding. The misunderstanding fills tables.

The Bib Gourmand Problem

A Michelin star is supposed to mean exceptional, destination level dining. A Bib Gourmand was designed to mean good, honest food at a fair price, usually the kind of place locals actually eat. These are not just different categories. They are different philosophies.

But in Thailand, Bib Gourmand now functions as a star in all but name. Restaurants display the same Michelin logo. Platforms list them under Michelin. Customers see the red badge and assume elite dining. The distinction between a local noodle shop and a star level experience disappears.

Michelin created two badges that look the same, feel the same, and trade on the same prestige, while pretending they mean fundamentally different things.

They do not. They trigger the same economic shockwave.

The Google Lie

Once that logo is on the door, the distortion compounds.

Look at Google reviews…

In Bangkok, Thipsamai Pad Thai is routinely described by reviewers as Michelin starred, despite never having held a star.

In Phuket, Raya Restaurant is widely framed online as a Michelin destination, when in reality it is at most a historic Bib Gourmand.

In Chiang Mai, PARI Restaurant is framed by reviewers as a Michelin level experience, even though it has never held a star, never held a Bib Gourmand, and only appears as a simple recommendation in the Michelin Guide 2025.

People are not lying. They are being misled.

They walk in believing they are eating at something rare, elevated, globally vetted. Instead, they are eating at normal restaurants that Michelin’s branding has turned into prestige objects.

The important thing is not the category. It is the belief.

People are not going to these places thinking, “This was once mentioned in a Michelin guide.” They are going thinking, “I am eating at a Michelin starred restaurant.” That belief shapes what they expect, what they tolerate, and how much they are willing to pay.

The sign on the wall

The proof is literally bolted to the building.

PARI in Chiang Mai displays a large red plaque reading MICHELIN 2025. There is no star. No Bib. No category. No “Recommended.” Just Michelin.

To an unassuming patron, this screams Michelin star. Even the placard itself makes no effort to distinguish what is being awarded.

Michelin created that sign. Michelin supplied that logo. Michelin allows it to stay.

A restaurant with the lowest level of recognition is visually indistinguishable from a starred restaurant in Paris. That is not a mistake. That is brand leverage.

The knock On effects

Once Michelin touches a place, everything changes.

The restaurant becomes overcrowded and overrated. Prices rise beyond what locals can afford. Tourists arrive in waves, once, for the photo. Regulars disappear. Quality drops. Portions shrink. Service charges appear.

With repeat customers gone, quality no longer needs to be protected. One off visitors do not provide the feedback that keeps places sharp. They are there for the logo, the photo, the story.

So the food gets flattened. Garlic goes. Spice goes. Funk goes. Anything that might confuse a global palate is removed. Everything is tuned to offend no one, which usually means it impresses no one. Dishes become bland in order to not alienate the widest possible audience.

The restaurant stops cooking for its neighbourhood and starts cooking for the algorithm.

No heart. No soul. Just throughput.

In Thailand, you can watch this happen in real time. Local favourites turn into Michelin funnels. Instagram replaces families. Single visit customers replace community. And the restaurant stops caring because it no longer needs repeat customers. The Michelin halo guarantees a constant stream of new ones.

Why this actually matters

This is not about bad meals. It is about cultural extraction.

Michelin is turning living food culture into tourist product.

The moment a restaurant becomes Michelin linked, it stops serving locals and starts serving strangers. Locals know what food should cost. Tourists do not. Locals come back. Tourists do not. Locals hold standards. Tourists just take photos.

So prices explode. Regulars disappear. Accountability dies.

A dish that should cost 80 baht becomes 300. A place that once had a soul becomes a conveyor belt.

And Michelin locks this distortion in.

There are no real take backs. No expiry. No meaningful trademark policing. Michelin cannot properly police its branding across different countries, and there appear to be no clear, enforced terms that stop restaurants from using Michelin logos in ways that imply more than was awarded.

That means a restaurant can trade on a Michelin mention for years after the food, staff, and standards have changed. A one time inclusion becomes permanent prestige. The illusion keeps paying even when the reality is gone.

Then the food is flattened. Spice goes. Garlic goes. Funk goes. What remains is bland, safe, internationally acceptable food that still looks local but no longer tastes local.

This is not just price inflation. It is cultural erasure.

Once restaurants stop needing locals, they stop being local.

And when that happens, the culture they came from is already dead.

The Tragedy of Confusion

Michelin claims it is celebrating food. In reality, it is flattening it.

By collapsing stars, Bibs, and recommendations into one visual identity, Michelin has destroyed the signal that once made it meaningful.

Everything becomes Michelin. Nothing is Michelin.

In Thailand, the best meals are still out there. They just do not wear red plaques. They are hidden behind normal doors, cooking for locals, not tourists chasing a badge they do not understand.

Conclusion

Michelin has not simply catalogued dining in Thailand. It has reshaped it. By collapsing fine dining, good value local food, and simple recommendations into one blurred symbol of prestige, it has broken the signal that diners and restaurants once relied on.

To be clear, Michelin stars are not the issue. Real Michelin star restaurants can be excellent and deserve their place. The problem is that Michelin has turned one brand into three different meanings, and the public reads them all the same way: Michelin equals star-level standards.

That confusion is the damage engine. When an everyday local restaurant gets any Michelin association, tourists arrive expecting a “Michelin experience”, not a good local meal. Demand spikes, queues form, prices rise, locals drop out, and the restaurant pivots to throughput. Menus get flattened for the widest palate, service becomes transactional, and what was a neighbourhood staple turns into a tourist product.

And because there is little visible distinction and no effective expiry, the distortion lasts. A one-time mention becomes a long-term license to monetise confusion.

Michelin has to choose. Either it is a guide to extraordinary, destination-level restaurants, or it is a guide to good everyday local food. It cannot be both under one brand. Stars need an unmistakable badge, and everything else must look obviously different. Until Michelin fixes that, it will keep hollowing out Thailand’s everyday restaurant culture, one red plaque at a time.

Ben Clark, with light editorial assistance from ChatGPT-5.2.

Reasons why I chose SafetyWing:

1. Monthly Payments – You can cancel whenever you want, and you’re not locked into a 12 month plan. Just pay for however long you want, by the month.

2. Allows you to take out insurance whilst abroad – Unlike other insurance providers, SafetyWing allows you to take out insurance when you’re outside of your own country.

3. Covers my needs – Covers cycling, cycle touring, and other sports I’m likely to do when travelling.

4. Separate Countries – Ability to separate coverage between North America (usually most expensive), and Rest of World. I have taken out insurance first for Rest of World, and then when I go to USA / North America, I will take out a new policy for this region. This means I am not paying for coverage in North America when I am not physically there.

Use my link to receive $20 saving on your insurance:

Ben's SafetyWing Referral Link

🇦🇺 Australia

🏕️ Accommodation & Camping

• Warmshowers: Fantastic along the East Coast.

• Campgrounds: Often significantly overpriced, especially for solo riders, and they accept cash only.

• Hotels/Hostels: Significantly overpriced, bad value for money on average.

• Wild camping: Technically illegal, usually tolerated. Safer to camp near others.

• Trusted House Sitter + Aussie House Sitters

🚆 Transport

• Brisbane trains: $0.50 incl. bike. Use first/last carriage.

• NSW coaches: Bike must be boxed.

• Greyhound: No box needed.

• Riding on footpaths: Legal in QLD, not in VIC (rarely enforced).

📱 Connectivity

• Telstra: Best coverage overall.

• Free national calls from Telstra phone boxes.

💳 Money & Shopping

• ANZ ATMs: No withdrawal fees (Visa).

• Card payments: Surcharge of 1–3% common everywhere.

• Aldi: Cheapest groceries, only in larger towns.

🚲 Road Safety

• Rear-view mirror and hi-vis vest: Essential—especially near traffic and trailers.

• Use a bell on shared trails and blind corners.

• Don’t ride busy highways (like Eyre) without a mirror—truckies won’t thank you.

🌞 Environment & Gear

• Sun protection: Sunscreen, cap under helmet, buff for neck warmth.

• Flies: Brutal in outback—bring a head net.

• Plastic groundsheet: For breaks and under your tent (keeps ants/mud off).

🚴‍♂️ Suggested Bike Trails

• Brisbane Valley Rail Trail

• Northern Rivers Rail Trail (incomplete)

• Inland route to Gladstone from BVRT

• Check out more user made bikepacking routes over on bikepacking.com/routes

🇳🇿 New Zealand

🚗 Roads & Safety

• Drivers are bad—especially on North Island. Avoid main highways where possible.

• Mirror + hi-vis vest are strongly advised.

• Good alternative: inland route via Mt Lyford instead of Hwy 1 after Kaikoura.

🗺️ Route Planning

• Use Cycle NZ for road profiles, route suggestions, and camping tips:
  cyclejourneys.co.nz

• Aotearoa Trail from Cape Reinga to Bluff

📱 SIM & Groceries

• 3-month SIMs widely available.

• New World app: Worth it for grocery discounts.

Any suggestions or want to update this list? Drop a comment below!

Wrexham Leader – 24th March, 2024

“A WREXHAM man is clocking up thousands of miles on his bike for a charity that supports men's mental health.

Twenty eight-year-old Ben Clark’s 'worldbybike' challenge is a 35,000km solo cycle adventure around the world to raise money for Andy's Man Club.

Ben, from Bwlchgwyn, a seasoned consultant in the wearable tech industry, is undertaking the extraordinary journey, a the two-year solo bicycle tour around the world…”

Endurance Sportswire – 4th April, 2024

Exeter Alumni News – 16th June, 2025

Endurance Sportswire – 23rd June, 2025

Endurance Biz – 23rd June, 2025

Also check out:

“From the streets of Wrexham, Wales to a 35,000 km solo cycling journey around the world – meet Ben Clark, an adventurer on an epic two-year ride across 33 countries. Inspired by Long Way Round, Ben traded in his BMW motorcycle for a Kona Sutra SE bike, experiencing the world one pedal at a time. In this episode of Outdoor Insiders, we dive into his motivations, the challenges of extreme weather, and the life-changing moments on the road. Plus, hear about his top 3 must-have outdoor gadgets and his favourite pick from this week’s ZEEDA lineup.

🚴 Biking through Europe, Central Asia, and now Nepal, with upcoming stops in Southeast Asia, Australia, and the U.S.
❄️ Surviving -7°C nights in Kazakhstan and a high-speed crash in India (now a firm believer in helmets!)
🍜 Discovering cultures through local food and unexpected friendships on the road
🤝 Supporting Andy's Man Club, a UK-based men's mental health charity
His top 3 outdoor essentials:
Apple - AirPods Pro 2 : Noise-canceling, immersive, and a road trip lifesaver
Garmin - Epix Pro Watch : Tracks heart rate, stress, sleep, and fitness
Garmin - inReach Mini 2 : A satellite communicator for emergency rescues
Ben’s top pick from this week’s ZEEDA lineup:
Wacaco - Portable Espresso Maker – Because a good day starts with great coffee, even on a bike trip! 🚴☕”

📣Warmshowers BikeLife Podcast – 17th February, 2025

Exploring World Cultures by Bike

“What drives someone to embark on a two-and-a-half-year biking adventure across the globe?

Join us as we explore the intriguing world of long-distance cycling with Ben Clark, who is currently traveling through Southeast Asia on a 35,000-kilometer bike tour. This episode offers a glimpse into the life of a digital nomad, highlighting the challenges and rewards of embracing a lifestyle often spent on the road and constantly adapting to new environments and cultures.

Ben shares personal stories from the journey, including unexpected friendships and extraordinary experiences in diverse countries like Georgia and India. Despite occasional hardships, they emphasize the joy of discovering new places and the kindness of strangers encountered along the way. This conversation inspires anyone curious about the endless possibilities that open up when we decide to step out of our comfort zone and explore the world on two wheels.”

Seek Travel Ride Podcast – 25th February, 2025

“I share a day on the road from Ben Clark who tells us all about a very eventful day during his world bike tour. This day occurred in India involving, Tuk Tuks, crashes, and an unexpected hospital visit.

You can follow Ben's adventures on instagram via @worldbybike_uk”

📣Bikepack Adventures Podcast – 18th May, 2025

“In this episode of the Bikepack Adventures Podcast, I connect with Ben Clark, an adventure cyclist who is 18,000 kilometers into his 35,000-kilometer journey around the world.

Ben shares the challenges and highlights of his route, which has taken him through countries such as Turkey, Georgia, Uzbekistan, India, Nepal, and Vietnam. He offers insights into his experiences, from dealing with extreme weather and varied landscapes to navigating cultural norms and overcoming personal challenges like a serious bike crash in India.

Ben also discusses his gear choices, the importance of minimalism, and his strategy for supporting mental health charities like Andy’s Man Club. Tune in to hear about his future plans, including cycling through New Zealand, the US, and eventually reaching Boston, as part of his grand adventure from Wales around the world.”

Ride to Success – 23rd June, 2025

“Pedro Couto Lopes interviews Ben Clark, who shares his journey of cycling around the world. The discussion covers the inspiration behind the journey, the lessons learned on the road, cultural connections, and the importance of mental health. Ben reflects on the challenges of solitude, the intersection of business and adventure, and the significance of supporting mental health initiatives.

The conversation also delves into the highlights and regrets of the journey, including experiences in Georgia and the decision not to cycle through Afghanistan.

The discussion also touches on personal growth, mental health, and the evolving definition of success, emphasising the value of experiences over mere achievements.”

Grit & Dust – 14th June, 2025

“Ben Clark @worldbybike_uk has partnered up with @andysmanclubuk to cycle 35.000km around the world for men’s mental health. From Wales, UK to Boston, USA.

If you want to support Ben & Andy’s Man Club make sure to check out Ben’s link tree in his profile.
We’ve got 3 more videos with Ben coming out over the next month - stay tuned!

#gritanddust #mentalhealth #adventuremindset”

Ben Clark Opens Up on Mental Health in Powerful Ride to Success Episode

IN PARTNERSHIP WITH ANDYSMANCLUB

London, 23rd June 2025 – In a down-to-earth and honest conversation, around-the-world cyclist and mental health advocate Ben Clark joins the Ride to Success podcast to talk about why mental health matters. He shares personal moments from his past as well as challenges faced on his journey cycling around the world.  

In the newly released episode, Ben Clark— who is currently cycling across continents shares his experiences with past trauma and the psychological challenges of long-term solo travel. He reflects on how movement, purpose, and community play a role in healing, echoing his partner charity, ANDYSMANCLUB’s mission to break stigma through peer support.

Host of Ride to Success, Pedro Couto Lopes said “It was a real pleasure speaking with Ben. His honesty about mental health, resilience, and life on the road was eye-opening and refreshingly candid. This conversation reminded me how powerful cycling can be—not just as a physical journey, but as a way to heal, grow, and reconnect with yourself.”  

Tune in now to hear Ben’s full story on the Ride to Success podcast, available on all major platforms.

ABOUT WORLDBYBIKE / BEN CLARK

Ben Clark (@worldbybike_uk) is a solo cyclist from North Wales, currently 19,000km into a round-the-world bike tour he began in January 2024. His route has taken him across Europe, Asia, and now Southeast Asia, with upcoming legs in Australia, New Zealand, and the USA. The ride supports men’s mental health charity ANDYSMANCLUB. Follow his journey on Instagram and support the cause via his fundraiser.

ABOUT ANDYSMANCLUB

ANDYSMANCLUB is a UK-based charity offering free peer-to-peer support groups for men, with the mission of ending the stigma surrounding men’s mental health. With the slogan “#ITSOKAYTOTALK,” the organization provides safe, non-judgmental spaces for men to talk and listen.

ABOUT RIDE TO SUCCESS PODCAST

Ride to Success is a podcast focused on inspiring personal growth through cycling. Hosted by Pedro Couto Lopes, it explores the impact of cycling on creativity, productivity, and community. The show features diverse voices from the cycling world, sharing stories and insights. It’s a platform for motivation, connection, and positive change.

----END----

Media Redistributions

Endurance Sportswire

https://www.endurancesportswire.com/ben-clark-opens-up-on-mental-health-in-powerful-ride-to-success-episode/

Endurance Biz

“In this episode of the Bikepack Adventures Podcast, I connect with Ben Clark, an adventure cyclist who is 18,000 kilometres into his 35,000-kilometre journey around the world.

Ben shares the challenges and highlights of his route, which has taken him through countries such as Turkey, Georgia, Uzbekistan, India, Nepal, and Vietnam. He offers insights into his experiences, from dealing with extreme weather and varied landscapes to navigating cultural norms and overcoming personal challenges like a serious bike crash in India.

Ben also discusses his gear choices, the importance of minimalism, and his strategy for supporting mental health charities like Andy’s Man Club. Tune in to hear about his future plans, including cycling through New Zealand, the US, and eventually reaching Boston, as part of his grand adventure from Wales around the world”.

Sometimes it can be a lot to remember, hence the list, and sometimes it can be hard to do but having done the below subconsciously now for the past 16 months means I don’t need to think about them as much.

🌝: Night Before

• Create GPX Route on Komoot (link here) and sync to Garmin.

• Have a rough idea of where I plan to stop tomorrow in order to ensure there’s a hotel nearby, or a Warmshowers host – otherwise I won’t think about it and instead, wild camp.

• Ensure my bags are packed for an early start in the morning

• Ensure all my gear is charged and ready to go.

🌅: Pre-Ride

• Quick morning stretch

• Brush teeth

• Healthy breakfast (+coffee makes a huge difference for me, in my alertness and in my ability to pedal).

• Add some cash to my handlebar bag for roadside food later on.

• Fill water bottles with water and add electrolyte tablets.

• Get changed into my cycling gear and put on my chest based HR Monitor (for advanced data metrics).

🚴🏼: During the Ride

• Zone-out to have a good ride, put on a good podcast (I’ve linked some here) or an amazing music playlist such as my FAVES below!

• Turn on iPhone’s Airplane Mode to conserve battery life.

• Take lots of photos and videos! See my instagram for inspiration.

• Towards end of ride, start to think about accommodation and if a hotel or Airbnb, get it booked at least 1-hour before sunset.

😴: Post-Ride

• Protein shake (my protein goal on the bike is 119g/day based on my needs)

• Healthy eating / veg/fruit / meat, nutrients. As little packaged/processed as possible.

• Stretching – usual leg stretches, especially hamstring. I find kneeling on a bed/sofa helps stretch my calfs and thighs.

• Massage (as a treat if possible, in Thailand especially)

• Keep off alcohol, drink milk post-ride instead (although beer is definitely the best post-ride drink IMO).
  Read why alcohol is not good for fat loss, or recovery

• Early night and maximise sleep – ideally 10 hours

• Moisturise skin especially after a long day in the sun, and it helps to avoid sunburn post-ride.

• Upload ride to my Strava (link here) and add photos and caption, and/or create and publish vlog to my instagram here.

Did I miss anything? Let me know in the comments.

As always, you can stay up to date with my journey riding around the world via my links here!

Known by many as “that town between Aktau and Beyneu”, Shetpe has very little going for it. If you go, it’s likely because you’re using it as a sleepover stop for your next destination.

If you’re arriving from the south, which you likely are if you’re coming from Aktau, you’ll find a long and tarmac’d bicycle path has been built. The path starts at this location on the map and ends in Shetpe. This is about the only exciting thing the town has to offer.

Where to Stay in Shetpe

Following previous cyclists’ advice, there are only two places worth staying in Shetpe, and they’re both terrible.

Satti Motel – I think I paid about 13,000₸ / 20GBP back in October 2024

Price is extortionately high, rooms are horrible, toilets are horrible, owner is a knob, flies and mosquitoes in the room, no A/C or fan, no Wi-Fi, no toilet paper, dirty sheets, cash only. Not nice, but it’s kind of the only option around.

There is an adjacent restaurant next door which does basic and barely-edible food. The restaurant features special curtained ‘rooms’ for private eating and other private things.

Others have also claimed to stay at Saray Hotel but I don’t have any information about this other than the Google link and faint vague memories of someone saying it was terrible in a cycling chat.

Anyway, probably best to cycle around and find the hotel that looks best although I think regrettably that is probably Satti Motel.

Bear in mind it also gets very windy in the Mangystau region and especially at night hence I chose to stay in hotels where possible.

Where to Eat

I wouldn’t if I didn’t have to, but I did find a small market store (Ырыс шағын маркеті) which sold these corn dogs which I ate an unhealthy amount of and were incredible. Meat unknown.

Top Tips

1. Get water and food supplies before leaving Shetpe, there’s not much else between Shetpe and Beyneu except maybe 1 or 2 very small ‘shops' to buy basic confectionary.

2. Make sure you download, install, and set-up Yandex (requires 2FA set-up with mobile number) and iOverlander (v1 or v2) your time across the ‘Stans. Yandex is the all-in-one Maps/FoodDelivery/RideSharing hybrid app which will get you out of a lot of trouble, and iOverlander displays the hidden POIs that only true explorers have been able to find.

Aaaand that’s about it.

Did I miss anything? Let me know in the comments! Don’t forget to check my blog for other blogs on Kazakhstan, such as my bicycle tourer’s guide to Aktau here!

As always, you can follow my journey via my links here!

Da Nang Tunnel Shuttle

Two wheelers, i.e. cycles, scooters, and motorcycles are forbidden to ride through the 6km tunnel, and also why would you want to anyway?

Luckily though there’s a transport shuttle!

To take the tunnel shuttle you’ll need to head to this location on the map.

When inside you’ll pay 20,000VND cash for person & bicycle…

Once paid, you just need to sit around and wait for the shuttle to arrive. As far as I can work out, shuttles arrive and leave every 40 minutes between 7am and 10pm, and there doesn’t appear to be a structured timetable.

Unfortunately, the cafe isn’t much but there is a shop further down the road.

The workers will then take your bicycle and load it onto the flatbed truck. I used a Voile strap to keep my bike secured, I’d highly recommend using something similar to avoid any damage.

You’ll then be directed onto the shuttle bus. The bus and truck will go to this location on the other side where you’ll collect your bike.

And that’s it. Simple!

As always you can follow my cycle journey around the world here!

Warmshowers has just released its 2024 Annual Report, titled The Big Leap, marking another year of significant growth and community engagement. The report chronicles the organisation's achievements, shares inspiring stories, and offers a vision for a bright future ahead.

Highlights include messages from the new Board Chair, Alberto Rosso, and Executive Director, Tahverlee Anglen, who reflect on the past year's successes and outline their strategic roadmap for the years to come.

The report also features a vibrant collection of photographs that capture the spirit of the Warmshowers community. Additionally, readers can explore highlights from top-rated Bike Life Podcast episodes, learn about the launch of the Global Ambassador program, and read inspiring posts from the global network.

To explore The Big Leap: Warmshowers' 2024 Report to the Community, and see the exciting path forward, visit the full report here.

You can also check out my podcast episode with Warmshowers’ Bike Life Podcast here:

Until September 2019, UK users could only access Garmin Pay if they banked with Revolut, Starling, or Santander. However, just before I wrapped up my time as Product Manager for Garmin Pay, I helped launch a key integration with Curve.

This rollout was a game-changer—it meant that UK customers could now use Garmin Pay with virtually any bank, including those not natively supported like Barclays or Monzo, simply by linking their accounts through Curve.

Setting up Garmin Pay is relatively straightforward in the US, Europe, and Asia, with a full list of supported banks available on Garmin’s official site. But in the UK, stricter regulations around payment systems have made it harder for many banks to justify building the technical infrastructure needed to support Garmin Pay natively.

Enter… Curve Card!

Curve acts as a smart payment card that lets you connect virtually any UK bank card to Garmin Pay, even if your bank isn’t directly supported. You add your regular debit or credit cards to Curve, then use the Curve Mastercard as the one linked to Garmin Pay—allowing you to pay from any bank account through your Garmin device.

Here's a direct guide on how to use any UK bank with Garmin Pay via Curve—this workaround lets you add banks that Garmin Pay doesn’t natively support:

✅ Step-by-Step: Use Any UK Bank with Garmin Pay via Curve

1. Download the Curve App

• Get it from the App Store or Google Play.

• Create an account and verify your identity.

2. Add Your Bank Card(s) to Curve

• In the Curve app, tap “Wallet” → “Add a card.”

• Add your UK debit or credit card—even if it’s from a bank not supported by Garmin Pay.

3. Order and Activate Your Curve Card

• Curve will send you a physical Mastercard.

• Once received, activate it in the app.

4. Add Curve to Garmin Pay

• Open the Garmin Connect app on your phone.

• Go to Devices → Garmin Pay → Wallet.

• Tap “Add Card” and enter the Curve card details.

• Complete verification (usually via SMS or Curve app).

5. Set Your Default Card in Curve

• Open the Curve app.

• Tap your desired bank card and select “Set as default.”

• Curve will charge this card when you use Garmin Pay.

6. Start Paying with Garmin Pay

• Use your Garmin watch to pay via Garmin Pay.

• Curve routes the transaction through your chosen bank card.

🔄 Optional: Use “Go Back in Time”

• Curve lets you move a payment to a different card after the fact (within 30 days).

• Useful if you used the wrong funding source.

⚠️ Notes

• Curve supports Mastercard and Visa, but not all prepaid or business cards.

• Your original bank doesn't need Garmin Pay support—only Curve does.

• Garmin Pay only supports Curve Mastercard, not the underlying card directly.

You can use my referral link here to sign up for Curve (which has a load of other benefits too), and we will each receive cash rewards! #Boshhh

https://www.curve.com/en-gb/signup/#N3A4LGZD

And as always, you can follow my current journey around the world here!

Thailand’s QR code payment system — widely known as PromptPay or Thai QR — is ubiquitous. From 7-Eleven stores to market stalls and tuk-tuk drivers, virtually every vendor can accept digital payments through a simple scan. But for Western travellers, tapping into this cashless ecosystem has traditionally required a Thai bank account — until now.

Moreta Pay is changing the game. This app makes it possible for visitors from abroad to pay with Thai QR codes directly from their foreign bank accounts, removing the need for local bank infrastructure or currency exchanges.

What Is Moreta Pay?

Moreta Pay is a mobile wallet designed to let international travellers make payments in Thailand using standard Thai QR codes. The app bridges the gap between Western banking systems and Thailand’s cashless economy by converting foreign currencies into Thai Baht and transmitting the payment through local QR infrastructure.

Crucially, it enables users to scan Thai business QR codes and pay instantly, just like locals do — without the need for a Thai bank account or local SIM card.

Where does it work?

Thailand, Vietnam, the Philippines, Cambodia, Laos, and Mongolia.

How It Works

1. Set Up the App: Download the Moreta Pay app and create an account.

2. Link Your Bank Account: Connect your bank account using the app's integration with financial data platforms (like Plaid).

3. Add Funds: Transfer funds into your Moreta wallet to be used for QR payments.

4. Scan and Pay: At checkout, scan the merchant’s Thai QR code and confirm the transaction in the app.

5. Conversion Done Automatically: Your payment is converted into Thai Baht and processed locally, with no further action needed.

For Non-Americans: How to Fund the Wallet

While Moreta Pay is available to all Westerners, the funding process varies depending on your banking origin:

• For US Account Holders: If you have a bank account with a US issuing bank, you can fund your wallet directly via ACH transfers through the app.

• For Non-US Users: If you’re based in the UK, Europe, or elsewhere and don’t have access to a US bank, you can still use Moreta Pay — but you'll need to route your funds via an account issued by a US-based institution.

The simplest workaround? Use Wise (formerly TransferWise). Wise allows you to open a multi-currency account and obtain US bank details. Once set up, you can link your Wise-issued US account to Moreta Pay, add funds, and proceed as normal.

This method works well for British, European, Australian and Canadian users who don’t have direct access to US banking but still want to benefit from the Thai QR ecosystem.

Key Advantages

• No Thai Bank Account Required
  Moreta removes the biggest barrier to digital payments in Thailand — local banking.

• Instant, Cashless Payments
  Pay in shops, restaurants, or markets with just your phone.

• Competitive Exchange Rates
  Avoid the poor rates and high fees of airport exchange booths and ATMs.

• Cashback Perks
  Earn small rebates on every transaction made through the app.

Important Limitations

• Business QR Codes Only
  Currently, Moreta only works with business-registered Thai QR codes. Payments to personal bank accounts (common among some small vendors) are not yet supported.

• Internet Required
  An active data connection is necessary for the app to process QR scans and confirm payments. Unlike ApplePay which can be used offline.

• Initial Setup Time
  Especially for non-US users, expect to spend a bit of time setting up your Wise account before you can fund your Moreta wallet. There are a few steps involved from adding money, getting verified, etc.

Ben’s Thoughts

I’m not affiliated with Moreta or Wise in any way, I was just told about this process recently and have since started using it. I’m finding it a lot easier than having to pull out Google Translator to find somewhere that accepts Mastercard, or having to pay 220BAHT (approx. £5.20) to get cash out of an ATM – which is an outright scam if you ask me, considering the fee is only 30,000KIP (approx. £1.04) in Laos. https://app.moretapay.com/invite/ben700773

Anyhoo, if you’d like to support me and set up QR Code Payments with Moreta, please use my referral link here: https://app.moretapay.com/invite/ben700773 – where we will both gain 10USD for every 3 people that sign up and spend 10USD.

If you also need to sign up with Wise, please use my referral code here: https://wise.com/invite/ihpc/benjaminronaldc2 – where I gain £75 for every 3 people that sign up and you receive a free gift card and zero fees on transfers up to £500.

Any questions, do drop them below, and remember you can follow my journey around the world here!

(Amasya Öğretmenevi)

Here’s what you should know:

What is an Öğretmenevi?

• Purpose: Originally created to provide affordable accommodation and social facilities for teachers.

• Management: Operated by the Turkish Ministry of National Education.

• Locations: Found in almost every city and many towns across Turkey.

Services Offered:

• Affordable rooms (often significantly cheaper than regular hotels)

• Restaurants or cafeterias

• Event halls for weddings, seminars, and meetings

• Social spaces like lounges or tea gardens

Who Can Stay There?

• Priority is given to teachers, retired educators, and Ministry of Education employees.

• Civilians can usually stay if there’s availability, often at a slightly higher price.

Why Stay at One?

• Budget-friendly

• Safe and clean

• Centrally located in most cities

• Quiet and family-friendly environment

As well as Google Maps, websites like ogretmenevine.com and ogretmenevlerim.com offer detailed information on various Öğretmenevi, including addresses, contact details, and accommodation prices.

A full list of hotels can be found here.

In January 2025, I sat down with Bella Molloy from the Seek Travel Ride podcast to share a single day from my cycle journey.

Unsure which day to pick, I chose the one that, in hindsight, was the most eye-opening—the same day that could have ended the trip, or even my life.

That was the day I had my worst-ever bicycle crash, but what was worse…

…I wasn’t wearing a helmet.

Starting at 9:15, I talk about that day and what I’d do differently next time.

GomoWorld offers cheap, hassle-free eSIMs for travelers on the go. I like it because it's generally cheap, is super convenient and accessible at any time – vs the hassle of having to go and find a physical SIM card in a new country.

What sets it apart is that one eSIM works across all countries, unlike other apps that require you to install a new eSIM for each destination.

I’m not affiliated with GoMoWorld, but I’ve seen that the discount code ‘ESIMSIO’ works for 15% off in the app.

Komoot

Possibly both the best and worst cycle route planner there is. I dislike many things about Komoot’s UI/UX and general functionality, but at the same time it’s also the best app there is for A to B planning.

Following Bending Spoons’ recent shock acquisition of Komoot, it remains unknown what future Komoot has, if any. If it gets any worse, I may end up fully migrating to apps like Mapy.cz, or VeloPlanner.

Spotify

How else would I listen to my podcasts? Loads of ways – however, to date, I’ve sunk now probably 9000 songs into the Spotify-ecosystem so I might as well stay!

Check out my post on my favourite podcasts for listening to when cycling, as well as this post for my favourite guests on the Joe Rogan experience!

Did I miss anything? Let me know in the comments!

As always you can follow my journey via my Linktree here.

Where to Stay in Pokhara

Hotels and Warmshowers Hosts are also available, however, the below accommodations are from my own experience.

Kiwi Hostel

Probably the best hostel in Pokhara for socialising, and. was pretty much always fully booked whilst I was there in December 2024. I was able to meet 5 other travelling bike packers who were also staying here. So it seems like it is already the hostel of choice for the bike traveller. There is a rooftop bar, very comfortable beds, ensuite bathrooms, free breakfast, and is well located near other hostels and the lakeside.

Dharma Backpackers Hostel & Hotel

Located a stone’s throw from Kiwi Hostel, Dharma offers cheap private rooms and a lively hostel environment with a free breakfast on the rooftop, and fire pit on the ground floor.

What to See & Do in Pokhara

Myself, Michael, and Yvette cycled up to the Sarangkot View Tower – a significantly steep and hard climb up, but a view worth seeing.

And, on a clear day, Rise and look around you. And you'll see who, You Are you can also see Pokhara off in the distance. There’s a cablecar that goes up to the top, but where’s the fun in that?

Check out my Vlog Nº 333 for my full review of Sarangkot View Tower!

Walk around Phewa Lake

A stroll around Phewa Lake is the perfect way to soak up the beauty and tranquility of Pokhara. With the snow-capped Annapurna range mirrored in its calm waters and colorful wooden boats drifting by, this scenic walk offers peaceful views, charming cafés, and plenty of photo-worthy spots.

Old Pokhara Bazaar

Step back in time at Old Pokhara Bazaar, a charming maze of traditional Newari architecture, vibrant shops, and timeless culture. This historic market district offers a glimpse into Pokhara’s rich past, where locals still trade daily goods beneath wooden balconies and carved windows.

Where to Eat

Juicery Cafe (Lakeside, and others)

During the 2 weeks I was in Pokhara, I must have ate at The Juicery around 16 times – I’m not even joking. Their food is incredible and exceptional value for money. There are 3 locations dotted around the city, but the Juicery Lakeside is definitely my favourite with a stunning view from their conservatory of Phewa Lake and mountains in the distance. #Boshhhh.

Fire Pizza

After months of experiencing the worst pizza known to man coming across the Stans, and India, it was a nice welcome surprise to be faced with good quality pizza and beer. Fire Pizza is awesome and I highly recommend going.

Dal Bhat Restaurants

Along many of the non-tourist streets you’ll also find traditional Nepalese restaurants where the national cuisine of Dal Bhat is served, prices range from 150 to 300 NPR as of December 2024 – and is absolutely delicious. Worth getting when in Pokhara.

Other places worth checking out: am/pm Cafe, and Roadhouse Cafe Pokhara

Bike Shops (Repairs, Boxes)

Chamling Cycle Pvt. Ltd

Chamling has earned a reputation in recent years for being the go-to stop for bike tour repairs. They’re a little light on parts, but they have highly skilled mechanics who can fix just about anything. In addition, they will clean your bike to a quality standard you didn’t know existed.

I provided them with my spare cables and pads, but they were able to change the cables, pads, clean the whole bike (looks cleaner than it did when it came out of its box from the factory), full bolt check, gear index front and rear, lubed, and a few other things – for the grand total of 100NPR, which was about 0.60GBP as of December 2025.

As for boxes, you’re best off calling into the Chamling store ahead of time, or getting in contact with the other bike store (Pokhara Mountain Bike Adventure, although they seem more like a bicycle hire shop) in Pokhara to see if they have one. From my experience though of dealing with Pokhara Mountain Bike Adventure, whilst they carry more parts than Chamling, they don’t speak English and they’re very reluctant to help. If I needed a box and they had one, I’d get it from them, and take it to Chamling for them to box for me (or do it myself).

Top Tips:

1. Pokhara holds a yearly Street Food Festival which fortunately was on at the time I was there, ​The Festival, a prominent event in Pokhara, Nepal, is traditionally held from December 28 to January 1each year, celebrating the English New Year with an array of food, music, and cultural performances.

2. Don’t bother going to the Irish Pub, they don’t have anything on draft, there’s no Guinness, and it’s expensive as hell.

3. If you’re heading onto Kathmandu, I recommend buying a face mask from a pharmacy as the dust clouds are insane.

4. If you’re heading down to the border, make sure to check out Tansen on your way. This is an incredible town set on a mountain side with a huge Hollywood-style ‘TANSEN’ sign. Hard cycle to the top but incredible views, not one to miss. I recommend staying at Horizon Homestay – very nice hosts and they do a great free breakfast.

Did I miss anything? Let me know in the comments!

As always you can follow my journey via my Linktree here.

Images shown are downscaled for sample purposes.

Total number of images in the set: 19

Final images are on average 30MB each

Sample Video

Total number of videos in the set: 1 of approximately 2:19 minutes of footage in total. Sample video above is downgraded for sample/illustration. Final video is in high definition.

All files are Copyrighted Ben Clark 2025

Images shown are downscaled for sample purposes.

Total number of images in the set: 17

Final images are on average 30MB each

Sample Video

Total number of videos in the set: 3 of approximately 6 minutes of footage in total.

All files are Copyrighted Ben Clark 2025