A Chris Guillebeau inspired review of 2011. What went well in 2011: We slowed our pace of travel. I’ve suffered on and off from travel fatigue since the very beginning. It’s not so much a physical thing, more a case
2011 in review: looking back
Unchanged China
I had plenty of ideas about China before actually visiting. These days, it’s hard not to pick up a newspaper or tune into a podcast without being treated to some pundit’s views on China’s rising power, influence and prosperity. Like
Falling in (and out!) of love with China
Just like in relationships, it’s also possible start off on the wrong foot when getting acquainted with a country. Perhaps one party doesn’t put forward its best face, and you end up not much liking each other. So it was
Why Taiwan Deserves a Spot on Lonely Planet’s top 10
Taiwan nabbed a spot on Lonely Planet’s 2012 list of top ten destinations. After almost three weeks exploring this tiny island nation, I can assure you it deserves the recognition. The Taiwanese are embracing bicycle touring like no other nation
Top 5 Reasons to Cycle Ethiopia
Ethiopia is often equated with relentless hills, stone-throwing children and shouts of “you, you, you.” Sure, it’s not the easiest country for a cycle tourist to take on, but for those who persevere the rewards are plentiful. Tim and Mat share a
Top 5 reasons to Cycle Equatorial Guinea
Equatorial Guinea should top any list of obscure countries that deserve a visit. Inveterate bicycle tourist Lorenzo Rojo shares his reasons for what makes this minuscule Spanish-speaking country plopped down in the heart of Africa worth a detour. #5 Adventure and Discovery One
Top 5 Reasons to Cycle the DRC
The Democratic Republic of Congo seems to have that perfect mix of challenging roads, friendly locals and an element of uncertainty that makes it much-loved by adventure cyclists. This week, Peter Gostelow gives us his take on this chaotic Central
Unexpected moments and a vow to give up griping
Admittedly, my initial impression of China was less than enthusiastic. It’s a great country to gripe about. I could go on and on about all the petty annoyances and irritations. About the often insalubrious conditions. The maniacal driving. The lack
Top 5 Reasons to Cycle Central African Republic
Harder conditions make for a happier cyclist. Or at least that seems to be the case for intrepid Englishman Peter Gostelow. This week Peter shares his experiences biking through a country I’m not sure I’d have the courage to venture
Mayhem on the Mainland
Getting from Hong Kong- a tiny territory crammed full of 7 million people- to Shenzhen- a sprawling mega-city populated by 14 million individuals—was going to be a challenge. Just 50 kilometers, mind you, but the memory of our ride from