Running out of planning time...
Ugh...only 18 days before shoving off toward Toronto...and time is running out. It's been an interesting few months of planning, and as time ticks away, tension is mounting...
- Visas! Ironically, Russia's business visa was the easiest one ($170). I've been rejected by Belarus (~$67) thanks to their ridiculously stringent rules. Oh, yeah, and they adjust their visa fees routinely according to exchange rates. If you send the wrong amount, you'll be rejected. As far as Kaz ($160) goes, I applied for a visa to allow for a stay longer than 15 days, simply because it's the 9th largest country in the world and a riding partner needs more time due to a strange route he's planned. Well, the day after I submitted my passport for a visa, they decided to update the website with new legislation...visa no longer needed. As for Belarus...not worth the hassle of re-applying. No others needed for this trip.
- Get new credit cards to ensure they last the duration - can't get new ones on the road.
- Replenish worn gear. Dry bags, tie downs, bungees, locks, tools and more...Amazon prime loves me. Goggles, gloves, boots, all the goodies.
- Renew vehicle registration since it will expire when I'm in the Balkans...when it's not within 90 days of expiration, this becomes a royal pain. Not sure why the state of Texas wouldn't want to get paid ahead of time.
- Upgrade electronics, such as heated vest and alarm system.
- Purchase “Green Card Insurance” for the bike in Europe and Russia. Six months of comprehensive coverage for $1,700 will almost cover the entire value of Green. May seem cheap to some of those who aren’t familiar with motorcycles. But this is four-times the equivalent in the US. But, on a dollar-per-mile basis, it will likely be a better deal.
- Get Mean Green serviced. Me to BMW dealer service tech: "What do I need to now to make sure this bike is ready to go around the world." His response: "Nothing...just enjoy the ride." Comforting...but eerily comforting.
- Identify riding partners. Will share more later, but it's looking like I'll be joined in Russia, Kaz, and Mongolia by two other adventure riders from Switzerland and the UK. Finding riding companions is actually easier than expected. Hopefully they come through.
- Update international drivers license. May actually use it for the first time this trip.
- Deal with health insurance. Thank goodness for awesome McKinsey coverage.
- Arrange international phone coverage. Thank goodness for amazing McKinsey tech support.
- Deal with work. Can't say this enough...McKinsey has been simply amazing at supporting this trip. The Firm really knows how to treat its people...recognizing we work hard but also strive for balance. More to follow.
Still left to do…the heavy lifting. Pack the apartment, say goodbye to the family and amazing people of Dallas, light the Dodge Caliber on fire and file an insurance claim.
