Francis has learnt that people everywhere are very lovely, welcoming, and pleasant. He didn't inform his family that he was riding through Iran in the fear they would worry for his life. However, he admits he's had a wonderful time in Iran, as the landscape is beautiful and the people have been welcoming. "Several families hosted me for free, and I made a lot of friends. I would camp outside magnificent mosques because I felt safe and there was always plenty of fresh, clean water, and access to clean toilets," he added.

FIFA dream
Since he is on a budget, watching the World Cup finals is out of the question. "I have the budget only to buy one ticket for a Group stages match, and I spent 100 dollars on it," he said. He hopes to meet his idol Argentinian Lionel Messi. "I would love it if he were to sign my bicycle," he said. Francis has managed to learn to read Russian phrases as well.

"Sometimes I feel like an angel on the road, spreading happiness, waving at people and seeing them smile. I believe people everywhere are nice, everyone has a good heart, and you need to reach out to them." An amateur cyclist, Francis only carried a tent, sleeping bag, a few things to repair his cycle, and a few changes of clothes.

Francis's next big dream is to write a book about his travels and support India for the Tokyo Olympics in 2020. "I want to cycle from India to Myanmar - Thailand - Laos - China - Mongolia - Russia and take a boat to Japan. I need to work hard if I have to do that, and I want to document it well. I want people to see my experience and see the happiness I am feeling," he explained. Francis cycles for five hours every day and would stay in a city or a village if he liked it. "All you need is a good place to pitch your tent and happiness," he signed off.

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