Can't believe we're reached December 15th, and I haven't had a mince pie yet. Normally mainlining a box a day at this point!

Despite the weather, I rather enjoyed my wander round Sofia. It sure does have some handsome buildings, plus the centre is quite compact- handy for an old man with dodgy knees!

I couldn't do Sofia to Bucharest on the train, so had to get an overnight bus. No bother, except I barely slept, so I'm tired today. Also, unlike the train which arrives at a civilised time, the bus spits you out into the city at 5.30am when it's -3°C and everywhere is shut!

Cărturești Carusel in Bucharest. I've got serious bookshop envy!

The 1758 sleeper from Bucharest Nord to Budapest Keleti. Compartment is made up as a double, but so far it's me, myself and I. Fingers crossed!

Budapest-Keleti, one of the great European railway stations. I've got a few hours to mooch about the Hungarian capital before an afternoon connection to Vienna, to pick up the Berlin-bound sleeper.

Boat trip on the Danube. A nice break from all the walking!

Soup in a loaf and chicken paprikash for lunch. That's it for Hungary! Now a couple of hours on the train to Vienna, to pick up the sleeper to Berlin.

I'm in Vienna. This means nothing to me.

Another seamless sleeper train journey. Incredible that I've got from Tbilisi to Berlin with everything running on time! Now waiting for my connection to Amsterdam, then the Hook of Holland ferry, and home tomorrow lunchtime. Berlin Central station is pretty impressive.

Nearing the end. The slow travel across Turkey has gradually speeded up to the point where the last few days and countries have been a blur. I barely know where I am. This place could easily be Rotterdam, or Liverpool, or anywhere or Rome. Actually I'm pretty sure it's Rotterdam.

Last night on the road. It's been an epic journey, but now I am quite weary. Quite looking forward to sleeping in a stationary bed! I do love the Hook of Holland to Harwich ferry though. It's been the start or finish point of many brilliant cycling adventures. Nice way to end.

Home! 👍🍺

Lunch! 👌

Home alone this Christmas. It's been a relaxing day. A walk first thing, then a bit of telly & a read of my new book. Dinner was roasted veg & a chicken Kyiv out of the freezer. Next up, an early night! Solidarity with those of you also flying solo. Hope you've had a good day.

Happy New Year to one and all. Have an enjoyable evening whatever you're doing, and here's to 2025. Hope it proves to be an excellent vintage 🥂❤️

That's me done on here. The owner is an obnoxious narcissist whose incendiary language is going to get someone killed. The algorithm is dominated by abhorrent far-right blue ticks. It's not a pleasant place to be anymore. Sad, because I've enjoyed my time here for the most part.

For anyone that's interested, I am on the 'gram and the sky blue place. Type in Tim Cycles The Coast, and you'll find me. Hope to see some of you over there x