When I was 11 years old I fell off my bike. Now, as anyone will tell you, the best thing to do is get straight back on it. As anyone with anxiety will tell you, if something bad happens, you develop a fear for that situation and the avoidance that follows is a self preservation mechanism.
I did not get back on the bike. Not for 17 years. Not until today.
I have an overwhelming fear of roads. This means that I can’t drive a car (despite nearly 40 hours of lessons) and I’ve never even considered riding a motorbike or moped.
I want to travel and see the world, not the tiny spit of land I am confined to dictated by how far my legs will carry me over the duration of my stay in any given city. So I decided, fine, it may not get me as far as a vehicle but it does provide me with that extra ability to jet around and explore. Maybe go on a bike tour even!
Before I get carried away and jet off to Bangkok hopping on the first bike tour I come by and end up tumbling into the Chao Phraya River to the amusement of my fellow cyclists, I thought I’d better get some practice in. I know they say you never forget but, I am sure I could be the exception to that rule.
I took a break from my last minute, panicked to-do list, grabbed an old friend and his sisters’ bike and headed for the park to gain my confidence. And I’m really glad I did, we had a great catch up (and laugh at my expense) and now I feel much more prepared for a two wheel challenge to present itself. After all, this trip is all about the challenge for me.
Oh and P.S. Okay, I was wobbly, but it’s true what they say, you really don’t forget.
Jet-setter Jones 