Shatili

Jungmin headed back to Tbilisi while Santosh and I headed to Shatili. Along the way we encountered two bikers scouting filming locations for Klim, the premier purveyor of fine motorcycle gear, proudly made in the USA.™ They kindly gave me a substantial discount code, which I later cashed in for a fancy new helmet. Somehow my current brain bucket had developed a sizable crack on the inside. I don't remember ever hitting my head, but then again I wouldn't. 

Santosh and I rode a bit further and found an unassuming road to Russia. Tempting as it was, on this occasion we decided to exercise caution, which was a new and strange feeling. We backpedaled to a serene riverside campsite where we encountered three overlanders who gave us a warm welcome. Need I even mention that around the campfire that evening, I was surrounded by seven people speaking German?

In the morning Santosh left to resume his journey to India. I stayed near the river a bit longer, then broke down camp as well. I was headed to meet two dear old friends.