The time has come to continue a journey started in 2007. During his Journey Into Friendship, Chanderjeet visited my little part of the world, now I'm visiting his. Not only will this be a chance for an average guy from NC to visit India, it will hopefully go further. Chanderjeet started "Bikers for Books" last year, this will continue that effort. We will be collecting and delivering books, school supplies, comfort items during our journey. This trip is the direct result of all the coordinators/contributers/hosts of the international frienship program. My hope is to show how important the relationships started by Chanderjeet and Alexey are to us average riders.
Dates; Late July-ish Airline Ticket; Funds available. Passport; acquired. Indian Tourist Visa; to be acquired. Gear; ATTGATT, Sony Digital Camera, GoPro Hero, Mrs.'s Laptop. International License; to be acquired locally. As for donated items (books/school supplies), keep in mind that CJ and I are carrying the stuff - will update poundage as it's recieved. My goal is to not only have a great trip, but to give back to this forum. Frequent updates and acknowledgement will flow as fast as possible. Here's to a great New Year, and a continuation of the Journey Into Friendship!!!
Done AAA of NC main office here in Charlotte took care of me, nice folks. Looking forward to July. Side note, Road Runner Magazine didn't sound interested in me writing up the trip - oh well, YFF's are getting the EXCLUSIVE.
Once we get a few more details sorted - dates/needs to cover bike/amount of items donated - some support could be helpful. Stay tuned, updates will be frequent.
Not accepting monetary donations. That just spoils the fun :) In case you are interested sire, we accept books, toys and stuff for the kids. This is the link to last years ride for the same cause. http://freebirds.50webs.com/bikersforbooks.html
Hi Any route that u have chalked out yet? I might be riding to leh again in end of June or end of July
Good luck! You can get a 10 year visa for India being from the USA. Not that you probably want one, but shoot for something hire than what you'd expect. I had a seizure a month before I left for India and had to postpone my trip a couple months. It screwed up my 6 month visa and I had to go to Nepal to get it extended. I was heading to Nepal anyway so it wasn't a big deal. I was never asked for my international license. I think they figure if you're not dead, you know what you're doing. Hmmm.... Mind if I kick around the idea of joining you? Depends on what kind of job I get if I can even get time off (or just quit again). -Dave
Welcome to the colorful country SgtMike.... oh, extending the trip further, why not have your flight back split into Uk for few days as well... Since we can plan it. Do some country riding at the same time ~M~
But to get a plane ticket, and related travel costs would be the end of me... I would have to stay in the UK . I will make it over to the blighty someday to tour Scotland and Ireland as well. We shall meet up sometime Mr. LoveMax, count on it . Hope it will be sooner than later.
Got my Indian VISA!!!!!!!! Also pictured is my International Driving Permit with motorcycle endorsement. I can hardly wait!!!!!!!
The trip will occur June 10 - June 29 With all the hammering of availability dates, we have a good schedule now. Can hardly wait .
Those dates, you HAVE to go to Leh Anywhere else, and you stand a real danger of melting in 50 degree heat (North India, plains) or getting washed away in the torrential rain (South India) But I think you will like Leh
Getting things sorted on Friday, moving out on Saturday EARLY. CJ has already been amazing in preparations, looking forward to a great ride - heat is o.k. for me. Besides, bottled water will be on top of the prep list.
Purchased!!!! Flying from Charlotte on the 10th of June, arrival in New Delhi on the 11th. Next month I will start the RR thread and only update that - STAY TUNED!!!!!