Thunder and Sunshine (Around the World by Bike, Part Two: Riding Home from Patagonia)

Follow Alastair Humphreys on his epic bike trip around the world, as he travels from South Africa to the UK, going through South and North America, Siberia in winter, Japan, and back through China, central Asia, and Europe

Alastair Humphreys cycled around the world—a journey of 46,000 miles. This inspiring story traces the second leg of his travels—the length of South and North America, the breadth of Asia, and back across Europe, crossing the mountains and salt-flats of South America, canoeing the Five-Finger Rapids of the Yukon River, and braving a Siberian Winter with only the flimsiest tent to protect him from the elements. Alastair Humphreys left England in August of 2001 to cycle round the world. After more than 1500 days and 46,000 miles, spanning five continents and 60 countries, he arrived home, having spent his student loans (which funded the entire trip). His journey, as well as a quest for adventure, helped to raise the profile of the charity Hope and Homes for Children. When scores of people have visited the Poles and £30,000 is needed to get up Everest, Alastair's expedition was refreshingly original. Alone on the road for four years, in countries few people visit, Alastair survived on a total of just £7,000. This was an expedition of self-belief and optimism rather than satellite hook-ups and lucrative sponsorship.