My Bicycle Touring

Murten, Switzerland

My Bicycle touring presents a fantastic way to see the world on two wheels. You have the opportunity to connect with the local people in a way that people using trains, motor coaches or cruise ships are not able.

Your bicycle is your transportation and you are better able to visit local museums, castles, attractions, restaurants and more. It is also great exercise.

Main areas for bicycle touring include North America, Europe, New Zealand and parts of Asia. With the exception of the occasional restaurant menu I have never had a problem with local languages, signs, etc. In fact I have found people more than willing to assist a cyclist with directions. Bicycle maps for different countries are easily available from tourist offices, the internet and specialty book stores. Many countries now offer long distance bicycle tour routes which are well signed for your convenience.

With a bicycle you have the freedom to visit out of the way places and smaller towns. Another option is to rent a home or villa for a week and use it as a base to explore the surrounding region. I did this in Tuscany and took daily bicycle rides to Radda, Greve, Siena and other interesting places.

You can purchase a package from an adventure travel company which includes a guide, accommodation, bicycle rental and perhaps some meals and a sag wagon. Or you can plan your own bicycle tour which in my experience saves you about 40 to 60 percent of the cost. Either way you will have a choice of terrain and distances.

You may choose to take you own bicycle which you are familiar with or rent a bicycle in your destination. Most commercial bicycle tour companies have bicycles available included in the package or available for an additional fee.

My bicycle touring is the adventure travel at its best.