My Bike Tour across Europe – Sweet Memories
56For someone with a poor memory, I have a bundle of memories about my bike tour across Europe. I remember them because they are so unforgettably sweet and touching. I had the good fortune to be part of numerous beautiful moments that exemplified endearing aspects of culture and human kindness. Let me share a few in this hub.
Right through the trip, my biking partner, Ravi and I enjoyed the hospitality of families who so kindly welcomed us in their homes. This time, it was a large Belgian family and we were having a wonderful time, being taken around the sights and spending a lovely time with their friends. It was dinner time and we were treated to some delicious courses. Finally, the dessert was about to be served and our gracious hostess came round directly to serve me first. I gestured to her to wait and requested her to serve it first to the youngest at the table, a little girl of 4 or 5. I told my hosts that back home in India sweets are always given first to the youngest in the family and that this was something I had seen observed in all family get-togethers. The hostess smilingly obliged and the little girl was served first, much to her delight and everybody else’s.
Every time we enjoyed the hospitality of a family, we gave them a little gift as a token of our thanks and remembrance. After a delightful stay with a Swiss couple, it was time to say goodbye. When I gave the lady a small sandalwood artifact, she reluctantly asked me if she could kiss me, adding in explanation that it was their custom to do so when given a gift. I gladly accepted the custom and the gesture.
Lots more of such sweet moments come to mind. I shall share them with you later, for sure. How could I ever forget them?
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nice...just like you are...thanks for sharing...:o)
Hi Smith,
Thanks. Wait for more. I never thought that these memories would mean much, especially after such a long time, but your response proves me wrong and makes me happy.
Vaidy
Hi G-Ma,
Such a joy to hear from you, but then you are never far behind a friend, the wonderful friend that you are.
Hugs
Vaidy
You obviously had a very good journey through Europe. Why don´t you share more of your experiences and photos?
Hi Hummingbird,
Yes it was indeed an unforgettable journey. I shall certainly share more of my experiences. There are very few photos that my friend and I could take, because we did not have a camera when we left home, then a generous host presented one, which went kaputt midway, then we had another one as a present, and so on. It was the pre-digital age and we did not have enough cash to have the photos developed and printed immediately. I shall see how I can scan and upload the few that I have, along with the stories associated with them.
Thanks
Vaidy
really nice i also love to travel on bike.............
E M Smith 22 months ago
Sweet