A Quiet Start to the Day
March 24. I woke up at six in the morning to a calm and empty road. Hardly any cars passed, and the silence of the early hour wrapped around me. For some reason, I decided to take a self-portrait. I don’t usually do that, but I thought it was worth capturing this particular moment of the journey.
Breakfast was a simple bowl of shijimi clam soup. The warmth spread through my body, steadying me for the day ahead. After packing up and setting my bike in order, I set off once more.
Cycling on Endless Straight Roads
The road stretched endlessly forward, but today, conditions were kind. The wind wasn’t too strong, and the sun had a soft, gentle warmth. It made cycling feel light and pleasant.
After some time, I neared the small town of Jerramungup. The roadside signs began showing distances to the next towns: “5 km,” “10 km,” “15 km.” Those little numbers gave me encouragement. Seeing “5 km left” somehow made my tired legs feel lighter. It’s strange how such small reminders can lift your spirits.
Unexpected Encounters in Jerramungup
Jerramungup wasn’t a large town, so I didn’t linger long. Still, two encounters stood out. First was a young traveler from France, out on his own adventure. And then, an older man, cheerful and friendly, who offered to take my photo.
Later, he sent the picture to me. It’s become one of my favorites from the journey—simple, unposed, but capturing something genuine about who I am in this moment of travel. Sometimes the most ordinary shots carry the deepest meaning.
Ending the Day in Ravensthorpe
By the end of the day, I reached Ravensthorpe. Here, I found a roadhouse with a free camping space. Bush camping is fine and has its charm, but there is a certain comfort in having an official spot where you can set up a tent without worry.
The site was just outside of town, with shelter from the wind, making it the perfect place to bring the day to a close.
It wasn’t a day of dramatic events, but it was a day of quiet satisfaction. These simple rhythms—waking, riding, meeting people, resting—feel like the true essence of this journey.
