We departed from China at Horgas  and crossed into Kazakhstan. Amazing place China: the infrastructure, the diversity of scenery , the people and a million other impressive things that suggest China is the place of the twenty first century.

The MGA Cherry Car has encountered major problems with rear main  engine oil seal leak which apparently has been a problem experienced before. This meant that the engine had to be removed from the car(twice) at Horgas taking some fifteen plus hours. Dave has sent for new oil seals to be delivered at Bishkek. Dan, Reg and Dave worked with the Chinese mechanics (who were very good) and have some stories to tell.

Crossing into Kazakhstan was a stark contrast to China. The customs officials  in their huge Russian caps welcomed us with broad smiles often displaying  extensive gold dental work. The roads were narrow, full of pots holes, cattle roamed freely and the odd donkey cart was sighted. Onion sellers and hitch hikers were common on the side of the road and cars drive in daylight with their headlights on.

The hotel was quite an experience, no four star luxury with the  breakfast preparation taking place  in a second hand shipping container but delivered personally to our rooms.

Our travel  plans have  changed as the eastern border into Kyrgzystan is closed so we are now going in via Bishkek. Dave’s car is being trucked to Bishkek hopefully to be repaied there. Fingers crossed!!!!!