Heading for the border!

We rode from New Orleans along the Gulf Coast of Texas. It is amazing to see how much damage has been done by the hurricanes. We had to wait out another storm ourselves on Galveston Island, but we used the time to rest and enjoy some great ice cream at Rita’s.

There were also a few ferry crossings. Thanks so much to Arturo Torre for rescuing us from the HELL of Gulf Coast BMW. He hosted us at his home and toured us around Houston.

It was with some trepidation and anxiety that we set off from Hondo this morning. The was dense fog which leant an eerie feel to the day too. We rode the 110 miles to Eagle Pass to cross the border. We paid our 5 USD toll and waited in the 30 degree heat to get to the Aduana or customs building only to find the official for the import permit was on holiday. This meant we had to convince them to let us return so we had to pay the 5 USD toll to cross back into the US. Then it was to the American customs officers whom we had to explain why we were back in the US so soon. Lets try this agin….we find bridge number 2 which is the truck crossing and just like at home there was no line. We had some help from the friendly locals and customs officials. Ultimately we obtained our tourist Visas and an escorted ride to find the fast route to the vehicle Import office by the head of border services! Dan managed to get our bikes imported and our permits affixed. Now for the ride to Monclova! We passed thru several police and military check points, but were stopped at only one where he really just wanted to check out the bikes. By the time we arrived at the hotel it was 4 pm and 38 degrees. Luckily we head into the mountains to cool off tomorrow.