Why Cycling is such a great way to Explore

If you are looking for an interesting way to explore different parts of the world doing it on a bike is a great option. There are many different ways to use a bike to experience different parts of the world. Here are just a few of them.

Hire a bike where you are

One of my favourite ways of getting my bearings when arriving in a new city is to hire a bike and have a ride around. From a bike, it is easy to spot great bars and restaurants and to get a feel for where the different sights you want to visit are in relation to each other.

Buy a second hand bike

Most hire bikes are in good condition, but if you are staying in one place for a few weeks, a cheaper option is to buy a second hand bike and a good lock. In most parts of the world, it is easy to find bike parts and you only need some simple tools, a little space and a couple of hours to fix up an old bike. The great thing about this approach is you can use the bike for a few weeks then sell it or give it to someone in need before you leave.

Take a bike tour

In cities like Amsterdam, there are several bike tours available. Professional tour guides take you from sight to sight stopping on the way to tell you more and answer your questions. Most of these guides live locally, so it is an excellent way to get a feel for a city and get some insider knowledge.

Take a road tour

If you are fit enough, taking a road tour is an excellent way to see a country. You travel from place to place, which means that you get to stay somewhere different every night. This kind of tour takes you off the beaten track and you will often be passing through or stopping in smaller villages and towns.

That means that you get to experience more of the country’s culture and makes for some interesting photos. For cycling fans, there is the chance to follow in the footsteps of their heroes by taking a few days to follow the route of famous cycling races like The Tour de France. Another great cycling road trip follows the Camino de Santiago in Spain.

Adventure cycling

For those of you who are fitter adventure cycling is a fantastic option. These kinds of cycle tours are an exceptionally good way to explore the more remote areas of the world. Using mountain bikes experienced guides take groups of people to places few tourists ever get to visit. For example, you can explore Bhutan or if you prefer travel the back roads of Columbia or Cambodia.

As you can see getting on your bike opens up a completely new way to explore. In addition, cycling has the added benefit of keeping you fit and burning off all of the extra calories you consume trying out the local drinks and food.

Tom Brown

www.thecyclingblog.com