From Norway to South Africa by bicycle
	The other morning, after I finished my egg sandwich breakfast, I saw two bicycles loaded down with a LOT of gear. There were 2 white people with helmets near the bikes. I raced over to meet them. They were a young couple, perhaps mid-twenties, by the names of Leisser Alexander and Goed Michaela. They had been traveling for about 1 year from Norway, by bicycle. Their destination is South Africa, which they anticipate will take them about another 6 months.  Wow! What an adventure.  I heard several experiences during our 30 minute conversation in English. None of their experiences were bad. People in general were very friendly, offering food and water on a regular basis.  Only 1 robbery. They lost a camera in Bamako, Mali.  For each bicycle, they have already gone through 3 rear tires and 2 front tires. Many times a week they stop to repair tier punctures. There are many thorns along and in the road.  They have been following the Niger River, mostly on dirt roads.  This helps them navigate, and keeps them off of the few busy paved roads.  They average 80 kilometers (50 miles) per day. Their route will take them from Mali into Burkina Faso, then down through the center of the African continent. Based on the recommendation of the Norwegian embassy, which they are in regular Internet contact with, they will fly over 3 countries that are experiencing some sort of strife now.  You know, like wars. Here is there website. It is not in English, but you can see their pictures and get a sense for their adventure.  www.kaptour.at Bon voyage, Leisser and Goed!