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I'm sure lots of questions occur to anyone contemplating one of these
trips. Below are some of the more obvious questions. If you
have any others, please email
and I will be happy to answer them.
How far do we ride each day and what is the
terrain like?
Mileage
varies from day to day, but the average is about 22 miles per day with
options for longer rides.
The terrain varies from flat to rolling with some bigger hills.
No matter what the terrain, there is plenty of time to get to your next
destinations. And if you form your own group, we can adjust the
rides to any length you want.
How
will I know if I am physically able to do one of these rides?
In general,
if you can ride 25 miles two days in a row, you should not have any
trouble with these rides. But the better shape you in, the more
fun it will be.
Why
are these rides so much cheaper than most of the others that I see
advertised?
Guided tours
provide one or more bilingual guides, a van to help you along the way
with anything from drinks and snacks to repairs and many other great
amenities that all add up. By eliminating some of these
services, you save money and you can be the adventurer that you are. On your
"group self-guided" tour, you will have great bikes, so mechanical problems are unlikely,
there are few roads and they are well marked. So you and your
group will experience the fun in finding your way and the flexibility
to be totally spontaneous. If you think that other tours are
more to your liking or just want to compare, take a look at the
where I recommend some guided tour companies.
What
services do you eliminate?
The most
significant and costly services which are not part of these trips are
guides and a van. Since you travel as a group you can support
each other. Maps are easy to follow and
it is unlikely you would need there services of a van. And
should you ever feel you need more support, you always have an emergency phone number.
What
happens if I get lost or have a flat tire?
Fortunately, where you will be riding, there are few
roads and they are well marked. This makes
things a lot easier. But, if you do go the wrong way, you have
the support of your group to get back on track. As far as
flat tires go, you should know how
to change a tire before you go. But even if you are a little
nervous about this, someone is the group is
bound to know how or be able to help you. Our bikes all come with
the necessary tools, an extra tube and a pump.
What
about the language barrier?
In a group,
there are always people who know at least a little of the language of
the country you are visiting. Even with a limited vocabulary
that includes bonjour, merci, au revoir, a few other word like vin,
pain and fromage, and a friendly attitude, you can get by surprisingly well. And those in
the hospitality business have lots of experience hosting foreign
visitors.
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