Leisurely Traveler with Check-in System

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This was Li Younan’s first time riding a horse.

However, the joy in his heart was hard to describe.

He took a deep breath and patted the horse’s head. The horse was well-fed, with spirited eyes, and while caressing it, the horse was also sizing up Li Younan, giving a soft neigh.

The guide gave a brief demonstration to Li Younan on how to mount the horse.

Li Younan patiently watched the demonstration and then swiftly mounted the horse’s back.

The guide still held the reins, and Li Younan asked, "Can you let go and let me ride by myself?"

The guide’s expression was a bit odd and said, "If I let go, you’ll fall."

But he took a couple more steps, then looked back at Li Younan with some curiosity, assessing him up and down.

Experienced riders know that you can tell if someone can ride a horse from the moment they mount.

Being able to ride isn’t just about getting the horse to run; it’s about a relaxed expression, a comfortable posture, and fluid movements.

It’s truly obvious at a glance.

The guide was bold enough to hand the reins to Li Younan: "Here, you ride by yourself."

Seeing this scene, his mom was shocked, nervously saying, "Son, can you do it?"

Li Younan patted the horse’s neck, and the horse gently moved its head and stepped in place.

Li Younan mirrored the horse’s movements, adjusting his posture in sync.

He knew the horse was testing him.

It’s necessary to mention that regardless of the horse’s breed, they tend to be a bit mischievous.

From the moment a person mounts, the horse begins testing whether the rider is skilled.

To horses, an experienced rider is apparent from the first moment.

After a few steps, by feeling the rider’s posture, the horse can practically confirm it.

Once confirmed, the horse will show its playful side.

If it knows you’re skilled, it’ll cooperate; but if it knows you’re not, it’ll give you a hard time, never letting the reins restrict it.

Seeing the reins released without the horse running wild, the guide knew that Li Younan was probably capable of riding.

Moreover, he appeared so natural and relaxed on horseback, laughing and patting the horse’s head: "You’re a bit sneaky!"

Li Younan grinned without explaining.

Riding skill is significant to the horse, affecting its balance during galloping and comfort at speed.

Horses resist inexperienced riders because of their inability to synchronize with the horse’s movements, lacking core stability and proper posture.

Bouncing awkwardly disrupts balance and causes discomfort for both the rider and the horse.

It’s like carrying a box filled with bouncing iron balls versus one full of books; even if they weigh the same, the latter feels lighter.

Unity between rider and horse is a comfortable experience for the horse.

Li Younan didn’t start too quickly, initially controlling the horse at a leisurely pace.

While riding, Li Younan observed the horse; it’s an excellent horse, naturally suited for walking.

In terms of gait, horses are categorized into two types. One is the running horse, prominent in films and television, known for its visually appealing alternate leg movements.

The walking horse, on the other hand, advances with a side-by-side rhythm.

The gait of walking horses resembles walking more than running, not as visually appealing but offering a smoother ride with less jostling.

This skill isn’t innate to all horses; those trained require top-notch trainers, but some horses like the one Li Younan was riding are naturally gifted.

Li Younan gradually accelerated, adapting his movements to the horse’s rhythm, soon achieving true harmony with the horse.

Galloping on horseback is truly a delightful experience.

At this point, the Tibetan guide saw Li Younan independently controlling the horse, moving back and forth with ease, so he sat down somewhat disinterestedly, casually pulled a piece of grass into his mouth, watching Li Younan’s ride.

He didn’t mind letting skilled riders take his beloved horse for a spin; horses inherently enjoy running.

Half an hour passed quickly, and Li Younan rode back leisurely.

Now the horse was excited too; as it stopped, its front hooves lifted high, accompanied by a loud neigh.

Li Younan remained composed, smiling faintly as he steadied the reins and gracefully dismounted.

Once off the horse, Li Younan felt a bit unfulfilled, sighed slightly, and reluctance showed as he patted the horse’s head.

Regrettably, they had to part.

The horse neighed a few more times at him.

Someday, when I have the money, I must find a way to own a horse.

Li Younan thought silently.

...

The camping didn’t last long, as they needed to head back to Songpan to stay the night.

The altitude in Songpan isn’t low either, with the town around 2,700-2,800 meters.

Ruoergai is genuinely over 3,000 meters, and once the altitude exceeds 3,000, one obvious challenge is oxygen scarcity.

Sleeping becomes difficult, often accompanied by headaches.