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Mackenzie Burton

@macca__b

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This summer I embarked on a nearly 3-month Bikepacking trip across Europe. In June, I landed in Alta, Norway—above the Arctic circle—with only a bike, tent & my dad’s ripped cycling windbreaker from the 90’s. I had very little cycling experience, and no plan except to cycle to the north point of the continent before turning south. Needless to say, I’ve been absolutely blown away by the experience and the constant kindness and hospitality of strangers. Every day, I awoke not knowing where I’d sleep the next night or what the day would bring. While on the road I attended a bachelorette karaoke night, a baby shower and watched a wedding procession from a sauna hot tub. I’ve spent nights in Spanish ruins, atop coastal cliffs and been hosted by so many wonderful strangers turned friends. I crashed three times— @riley.aclark saw two of them—went through two helmets and two pairs of shoes. Only one original bag survived the trip. I was fortunate enough to travel through 10 countries. The most common question from people was how I could do it alone. The truth is I never considered myself to be alone. Everywhere I traveled, I encountered people who helped my journey. These random acts of humanity ranged from extra pastries at gas stations, invitations into strangers homes for rest and laundry & so, so many lovely conversations. There is something sublime about reaching out and talking to strangers. While traveling with a bike you’re forced to slow down. I journeyed through many European cities, but most of the time my path led into little towns and villages not found on any tourist website. I spent hours in gas stations, grocery stores and local haunts charging power banks, buying pesto sauce and waiting out thunderstorms. It was in these seemingly mundane moments that I saw the most. I wouldn’t recommend hopping on a bike and traveling halfway across the world, but to just move lots & experience. And if even for a moment, you dip your toes into someone else’s life, their work, struggles, or pain, and sit with it, then you’ll begin to see it. So Europe, thank you for sharing. Your generosity and kindness is incredible. This was Alta, Norway to Albacete, Spain on a bike.

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Croatia = sailed 🇭🇷

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Call it chaos…

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Still calling Australia home 🇦🇺

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Yeah i guess you could say it’s going alright

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my people 🫶🏼🥹

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Happy 2022 everyone

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Walmart Ninja all the way

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13 years of school and exams finally over! Couldn’t have done it without these people by my side, I appreciate all of you so much🥰🥰

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Flashback to decades day🏋️‍♀️💚

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Anyone can turn 17 but @hannahduffus turned 21 🥂💕

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Playing dress ups a lot lately💃🏽🖤

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