Random hits on the keyboard

There’s something unexpectedly magical about running in Yangon. It’s not just a physical activity, I feel and see a lot. A bit of hidden corners and allies, and daily life. For me, Yangon is, quite simply, runnable. Sure, now and then, a heavy vehicle exhausts, but for the most part, the air feels fresh. The abundance of green is appealing. Parks, lakes, and open spaces call out to me in the early mornings. I’ve grown strangely fond of the humidity here. The sweat keeps me cold, and it forces me to run a little harder and further. The only caution is that it is not always possible to be on the footpaths. Slippery algae can turn a casual run into a skating attempt. And it is normal to walk/run on the tarmac road, ignoring the speeding car.  But honestly, sleeping in late feels far more dangerous to me than algae or a car. Running through Yangon is lively. I pass crowded marketplaces just waking up, keeping myself away from stray dogs, and observing vegetable markets and tea shops, v...

Enrolling for the #KORA24 cycling event for the first time was an exhilarating decision. I chose 50 km, the shortest among 75, 100 and 140 km.  At the break of dawn, I joined a group of enthusiastic cyclists at the historic Patan Durbar Square. The sight of such a diverse assembly of participants and bicycles was something I had never experienced in the city before. The weather was perfect, setting an ideal stage for the journey ahead. For the first couple of kilometers, I rode alongside my friends. As the trail became more exciting, I found myself continuing at my own pace, mingling with different groups of cyclists before leaving them behind. Along the route, well-organized stations provided music, water, and repair services, adding to the vibrant atmosphere. The route was a captivating blend of uphill and downhill paths, weaving beneath the hills surrounding the valley. Despite living in Kathmandu for years, I was surprised to discover parts of the city I had never seen before. ...