13 September 2015 – Visakhapatnam to Chennai - Day 5

A night halt in Visakhapatnam has been a regular feature of my expeditions since 2010 when I set out in the All India solo drive. The hosts have always been the ever pleasant Thulasiram Nair and his gracious wife, Nandini. This time too it was no different. I took leave of them after countless cups of tea and delectable dosas with chutneys and 'gun powder'.

The 845 km drive, longest till date on this expedition, was smoothly negotiated. The segment between Visakhapatnam and Vijayawada needs attention. The second segment to Chennai was very good. Just short of Eluru met Biju Jose, a Facebook friend and a senior member of the HVK Forum, and his companions who are on a tour of Sikkim. I reached Chennai in time for a good night's sleep. A business friend of mine had arranged accommodation at the Taj Vivanta. The accommodation was top class and the food delectable.