May 4: #cyclingfortibet tour festively launched in Utrecht
A little after nine, I was packed and ready to make my way to vegetarian restaurant de Werfkring in the centre of Utrecht, where director Wangpo Tethong and his employee Choezom from International Campaign for Tibet Europe waiting for me.
Dhe Tibetan owner of the Werfkring welcomed us with tea and delicious apple cake.
Afterwards, a student studying South Asian studies at Utrecht University and a Tibetan couple joined us. Another Tibetan woman came to help in the restaurant. She wore a colourful 'chupa', a traditional Tibetan costume. These people still cherish their traditions. How beautiful.
Wangpo and collaborator fold the khatas
At the farewell ritual, I was given a white Khata around the neck to wish me a prosperous trip. Truly heartwarming.
Here are some photos from this beautiful day. Choezom was constantly filming and taking pictures with her mobile phone. A video report will follow.
All photos: Balkan photos, city photos. The photos of the cycle route are listed in reverse chronological order. Those of the cities are listed chronologically.
In Venice, I visited the Biennale at the Arsenale, the Giardini and various venues around the city. I also took the opportunity to see the Pinault collection at Punta della Dogana and a compelling exhibition by Michael Armitage at Palazzo Grassi.