I should add that bike touring is a luxury
completely out of reach for so many.
It was 40 years ago - and even more so today.
I could sublet my apartment for the summer -
And even if I didn't get the full $250, I could afford to swing it.
Not so when rents are $2000/month.
(Plus, many leases have "No Subletting" clauses, now.)
Or - I could drop my cat off at my parents' place,
put all my stuff in storage, and head out.
I think that is much harder these days.
You can't find a place when you get back -
or the rent is even higher.
But I am saddened how few people are out there any more.
Because it is such a liberating experience.