Cycling History
Leisurely cycling always for me. I was not a natural at learning to ride a bike when I was a child. I remember falling off and giving up a lot but I finally got the hang of it at around 10 years old. Now, I mostly cycle around the South of England with my partner which is very relaxing, albeit a little wet at times.
Favourite Tour
Umbrian Escape – Perfect for a leisurely cyclist who is looking to indulge along the way but wishes to explore some of the beautiful Italian countryside. Italy is one of my favourite countries with good food, wine and friendly people, add cycling into the mix and I could not think of anything better.
Next Tour
Nothing planned for now but I like the look of the Lake Garda tour. It is an area that I have always wanted to visit (although this covers Italy in general) and it is great if you want a holiday that doesn’t require you to move your luggage as you stay in one place for the whole tour.
Best Travel Memory
I have a few in recent years. The highlight of this year was sailing into Venice at dusk with the whole Freedom Treks team after we spent the day cycling in Lido. It was a beautiful way to see Venice for the first time, with good company and post cycling wine. In contrast, another favourite memory would be taking a scenic helicopter ride over the Matterhorn and surrounding mountains near Zermatt. It was my first time in a helicopter and the experience will be one that I will not forget any time soon.
Strangest Travel Experience
I was very lucky to visit Japan this year. Not only was it my first time visiting this stunning country but it was my first time in Asia. I experienced many firsts here (eating stingray wing, drinking hot tinned coffee straight from a vending machine, sitting cross legged for dinner and getting to grips with city life in Tokyo). Now I am looking forward to the day that I can go back.
Top Travel Tip
When deciding what to take with you on your trip, try not to pack everything. I’ve lost count of the amount of times I’ve taken too many things and ended up bringing them all home with me without having used them. Now I always make a list..
Interesting Fact
On a 2007 trip to Washington, I saw Senator Obama speaking in Congress and met Senator Bernie Sanders. On another trip to America, I was lucky enough to see the launch of the Space Shuttle Discovery from the Kennedy Space Centre.