Are you sure it is going to fit?

Situation: currently writing this from my Ibis Styles hotel at Paris Orly Airport. Yes ladies and gentlemen, Ibis Styles, not Budget, because that’s how we roll. Jokes. If there had been an Ibis Budget, I would’ve been in the Budget. It would also fit the cycling vibes better. I’m pretty sure a lot of cyclists have seen the inside of plenty of Ibis hotels while travelling to (French) races.

After a quick spin this morning, I stuffed my car with two bike bags. One for the road bike and one for the TT bike. Despite my mother’s little faith in the packing skills of her son, I did manage to fit everything comfortably, as you can see.

After a not-so-quick drive into Paris, the final 30 km took me 1.5 hours. Away from the charm of the city centre, it’s a horrible city to drive through. I can’t imagine having to navigate those roads every day. Not even speaking of the suburbs. I stopped for “dinner” before the final stretch, hoping traffic would dissolve a little. During the 500-metre walk from my car to the sandwicherie, I saw more alcoholics, homeless people and drug addicts than I normally see in an entire year back home. A little moment of appreciation for my own neighbourhood.

Enfin. I eventually made it to the hotel and had a quick chat with the team about how we’re going to clean up the GC and take 4 stage wins in the coming race in Guadeloupe. Because that’s what I’m here for, in case you missed it. On Friday, a 10-day UCI 2.2 stage race starts in Guadeloupe. And we’ll be there.

I’m planning to post a short blog every day about the experience. They probably won’t be overly polished, because I might be short on time or just tired or both. But at least you’ll get them as they are.

Cheers!