It turns out that the humble bicycle is the perfect muse that has inspired many songwriters, composers and bike enthusiasts in all musical styles. Here’s a pick of our favorite cycling-themed songs:

Listen to the playlist:

Learn the stories:

In the 1960s and 1970s, the topic of cycling was covered by rock legends like Queen with their bike-ode Bicycle Race and Pink Floyd with their song Bike, dedicated to the then-girlfriend of the band’s founder, Syd Barrett.

In the 1980s, Tom Waits wrote the soundtrack of Francis Ford Coppola’s musical One from the Heart, which includes the jazz/blues track Broken Bicycles.

Scottish hard rock band Nazareth adds to the cycling playlist with its cover version of My White Bicycle. The song was originally released by the band Tomorrow, marking their debut in the 1960s.

German pioneers Kraftwerk expressed their interpretation of the joy of cycling in their 1983 single Tour de France, dedicated to the iconic French race.

The Pushbike Song is the bubblegum pop Australian entry in this two-wheeled playlist. The original by The Mixtures has been performed by many, but we particularly like the cover by British band Mungo Jerry.

Juan Lusi Guerra is a Dominican singer telling the story of his trip on a bike to Niagara Falls in his song El Niágara en Bicicleta.

Is your bike a muse? | Photo by Brennan Ehrhardt/Unsplash

If you like the soft jazz-pop grooves of Katie Melua, you may know her song Nine Million Bicycles. What you may not know is that the song was written after Katie’s trip to Beijing. The title was inspired by the words of her Chinese guide, who mentioned that more than nine million bicycles are used in Beijing.

Switching to dance-reggae, Culcha Candela – with members from Uganda, Poland, Colombia, Germany, and South Korea – illustrates how global the love of cycling is with their song La Bicicleta. 

The Flobots’ members have composed a special song to brag about their ability to ride without hands in Handlebars.

If the last handful of band names don’t ring a bell, don’t worry, it’s not just you. We embarked on a dedicated musical journey to find the best bicycle songs for you. To keep the balance, we present you Red Hot Chili Peppers’ Bicycle Song.

Of course, we couldn’t skip the grunge legends of Ugly Kid Joe and their Bicycle Wheels.

Ralph’s World’s confession called Banana Seat Bike reminds you of the times when this was “as close to a motorcycle as any kid is gonna get”.

And finally, two fresh and fun melodies to very much get you on your bike.

Mark Ronson & The Business Intl join the party with the classic: The Bike Song. Attention! Beware of becoming addicted to the video, melody and lyrics of this upbeat song.

We finish on a fun, pop note: Bicycle by BC Unidos. The Swedish duo’s debut will get you on your feet – or more likely on your bicycle – with its upbeat grooves.

The post Travel playlists: 15 bicycle songs to hum while riding appeared first on 203Challenges.

If you are planning a trip to one of Europe’s most fun capitals, make sure to check out our list of useful insider tips. Here are 8 things you need to know before traveling to Amsterdam for the first time:

#1 Try Dutch street food, it’s cheap and tasty

Don’t miss on Dutch street food like frites (fries that are typically served with mayo) and kibbeling (deeply fried cod that is usually dipped in fresh garlic sauce). Find it on food stalls and carts that are spread all over the city. Some of the best fries I have tasted in my life were bought from a street stall in the city center and covered with a rich and creamy cheese sauce.

Speaking of cheese, Dutch gauda is excellent and you can try some varieties for free on big markets like Albert Cuyp Market and Saturday’s Farmer’s Market. My personal favorites are the ones stuffed with fresh green pesto and filling walnuts. Sweet lovers should definitely have a bite of the typically Dutch stroopwafels (a delightful waffle made of two sheets of baked dough and caramel in the middle). Combine it with a cup of strong black coffee or hot tea for a perfect taste of melting caramel.

#2 Go on a canal cruise

Guided boat tours of the canals are a good way to experience Amsterdam’s quirky side. Changing the perspective will help you see the city in a different light while learning a bunch of historical facts. Most boats pass by famous sites like Anne Frank’s House, the Skinny Bridge, and the Hermitage Museum.

There are many types of canal cruises – from one-hour options to practical hop-on-hop-off tours and romantic evening boat trips for couples. Some of the most popular boat operators include Blue Boat, Lovers, and Stromma.

Tip: For a free ride, hop aboard the ferry behind the Centraal Station.

#3 Cannabis is legal, but only from licensed coffeeshops

The famous Dutch coffeeshops are not serving coffee but cannabis. It`s completely legal to enter and browse through the menu that is offering different types of weed. But look for a green-and-white sign on the door, which proves that the place is certified. When choosing cannabis, ask for recommendations because some varieties can be much stronger than others.

#4 Don’t walk on bike lanes

Cycling in the Netherlands is much more than a means of transportation. The locals worship their bikes that are used to commute to work, carry groceries or meet a friend for a drink.

Never walk on bike lanes as you can easily be hit by an impatient cyclist. As a person who has lived and studied in the Netherlands, I was riding a bike literally everywhere. I can assure you that my least favorite thing was careless pedestrians walking on the bike lanes. Dutch cyclists are always in a hurry and can get exceptionally rude. To avoid scolding and accidents, watch your feet and avoid the bike lanes.

#5 Rent a bike or walk around the city

Amsterdam`s city center is quite compact, so the best way to explore it is either on foot or on two wheels. As you already know, biking in the Netherlands is an adventure of its own but it is also the most authentic way to discover the city. Bike rentals can be found on most central locations– near the Centraal Station, Vondelpark, Leidsplein, and more. Check out bike rental companies like Yellow Bike, Bike4U, and A-Bike Rental. Most of them are offering guided tours or customized bikes to rent on your own.

And why not hopping on the luggage rack of a Dutch cyclist? It’s a bit like Couchsurfing, on a bike, but more fun and without the smelly socks in your living room.

#6 If biking is not your thing, buy an OV-chip card

If you are using the public transport, be sure to purchase an OV-chipkaart. It is valid for all kinds of transportation and will save you lots of money. The cards are refillable and can be bought from the Central Station, as well as almost all tram and bus stations, and tourist offices. Go online to plan your journeys using the Dutch Public Transport Data that is also available in English.

#7 Bring a rain jacket

One thing I learned while living in the Netherlands is that it’s raining all the time. And sometimes you get some heavy wind as a bonus. Therefore, be sure to pack some warm clothes, rain-resistant shoes and an extra pair of socks. Even if you are visiting in summer, don’t forget to take with you a reliable raincoat.

#8 Visit on King’s Day and party like a local

King’s Day is a national holiday marking the birth of King Willem-Alexander and celebrated on April 27. This is the time when both locals and international visitors are up to some wild parties, concerts, and various outdoor activities. Wearing orange clothing, dying their hairs in orange and consuming some orange-colored alcoholic drinks, people are celebrating on streets, squares, and even on boats in the canals. The party is as crazy as it can get in the Netherlands, so it’s a shame to miss it.

But keep in mind that Amsterdam gets heavily packed in that period. There are almost 1 million visitors coming for the celebrations, so it might be difficult to move around and go sightseeing during the day. Also, note that the city center is closed to cars and public transportation.

Hungry for more adventures? Become a bag and purse expert by visiting the Tassen Museum of Bags and Purses in Amsterdam. Or go off the beaten track and travel to the picturesque village with no streets – Giethoorn.

***

A passionate writer, journalist, and explorer, Yoana Hristova (www.yoanahristova.com) has worked and studied in Bulgaria, the Netherlands, Denmark, and Norway. Currently based in Bulgaria, she is always on the lookout for great stories that inspire us to travel, grow and discover what life has to offer.

The post Amsterdam: 8 travel tips for first timers appeared first on 203Challenges.

Big adventures are inspiring and they are great for impressing strangers in bars, but they happen quite rarely and the gap between them can make your life feel empty and uneventful. Plus, sometimes you just can’t take a day off from work even when you’re itching to get out and do something fun.

But all hope is not lost! There are several options that you’ve probably failed to notice in your despair.

After all, on a normal working day you’re free:

• in the morning;
• during your lunch break;
• after work (including the evening).

Here are 12 ideas for mini trips and adventures that you can squeeze into these breaks. They’re exciting, Instagram-worthy (because we all crave that killer shot that gets 100+ likes) and will help your free spirit survive until the weekend comes.

#1 Organize a sunrise picnic

A sunrise picnic by the lake | © Maria Angelova/ 203challenges.com

A picnic can be so much more than eating an alfresco meal on a blanket. Simply changing the time of your picnic can completely change the experience. Leave home an hour or so before sunrise, take a flask of coffee and breakfast in a basket, then drive somewhere beautiful to greet the new day.

>>> Try more creative picnic ideas.

#2 Head outside for your morning workout

Outdoor yoga routine | © Maria Angelova/ 203challenges.com

Yoga, tai chi or downhill biking – whatever your sporting passion is, try it somewhere new and exciting. Why practice your morning meditation in your living room when you can do it in a forest or a quiet park?

#3 Go ‘forest bathing’ like the Japanese

Go forest bathing | © Maria Angelova/ 203challenges.com

The Japanese call it shinrin-yoku (forest bathing) – the practice of walking in the forest to improve your health. The Swedes have a somewhat similar tradition called gökotta, which involves heading to a forest before sunrise to listen to the first birdsong of the morning. It’s much more exciting to tell your colleagues you practiced shinrin-yoku or gökotta instead of simply saying “I went to the park this morning.”

#4 Walk to work

Swap your daily commute for a walk to combine a healthy lifestyle, physical activity and a peaceful rebellion against big city’s pollution. It’s no coincidence that there’s a Walk to Work Day – use it as inspiration!

#5 Do something unusual in your lunch break

If you stop thinking of your lunch break as just a meal time, you’ll be able to come up with tons of amazing activities that you can squeeze into your day. If you’re struggling for inspiration, read this list of unusual lunch break ideas.

#6 Hop on your bike and ride to the nearest peak

Cycle for the sunset | © Maria Angelova/ 203challenges.com

All the sweat and pain of climbing a hill on two wheels is worth it when there’s a jaw-dropping view at the top. Take a bottle of wine and share it with your fellow mini-adventurers on a summer’s day; you can enjoy the sunlight long after work is over.

Psst. We’ve compiled a cycling playlist here.

#7 Dine on a lake shore

Dine on a lake shore | © Maria Angelova/ 203challenges.com

Instead of having dinner at home or at a restaurant, grab your favorite takeaway and head to the nearest lake. Reservoirs, river banks, city ponds and fountains will also suffice if your neighborhood is lacking in lakes. Of course, lakeside meals are often interrupted by lakeside birds, so keep some crumbs at hand for your feathered friends.

#8 Book a table at a restaurant in another city

Indulging in a scrumptious meal is always a special event, no matter whether you’re abroad or at home. To make this weekday night even more special, research a good restaurant in a neighboring city and head there. Don’t forget to try the dessert of the day!

#9 Go stargazing

A blanket, a friend and a half-hour drive out of the city are the only three ingredients you need for a memorable night under the stars. If it’s August and you live in the Northern Hemisphere, you can plan to see the Perseids meteor shower.

#10 Sleep in a hotel in your own city

Choose a cozy boutique hotel in your own city and treat yourself to a midweek vacation. Take advantage of all the services: the spa center, the gourmet restaurant, the rooftop bar…

#11 Go midweek camping somewhere close to your city

Go midweek camping | © Maria Angelova/ 203challenges.com

Midweek camping is so unexpectedly refreshing that once you’ve tried it, you may wonder why you’ve wasted all those years sleeping under a ceiling. It’s much easier than it sounds; you don’t need a day off and you don’t need to drive for miles. Simply read our guide: How to organize a midweek nature escape in 10 easy steps.

#12 Go on a night hike

Provided you have an acceptable mountain/hill close to where you live and there’s a trail you know like the back of your hand, you have no excuse not to put your headlamp on and head on a refreshing hike under the moonlight. Choose a night with a full moon for an extra special experience.

Featured image: © Maria Angelova/ 203challenges.com

Like these ideas? Pin them so you always have them at hand:

The post 12 midweek mini trip ideas for when you can’t take a day off appeared first on 203Challenges.

Why do I say “unique”?

The village of Giethoorn is located in the province of Overijssel, in the municipality of Steenwijkerland (I know, I can’t pronounce those either). But those tongue-twisting names don’t make it unique – the fact that there are practically no roads and people use boats as their main means of transport, on the other hand, does.

That is also the reason why it is often called “Venice of the Netherlands”, with the difference that instead of Venetian Gothic buildings, you can enjoy views of thatch-roofed farm houses and over 180 rustic wooden bridges – sounds a bit like a fairy tale, doesn’t it?

Dinghy, canoe or punt boat?

It is possible to rent the kind of boat that most appeals to you, with day rates around 30-50€.

And if you don’t feel comfortable grabbing the paddles with your own hands, you can always join a guided boat tour for less than 10€.

Another option to help you sail your way around the canals is to rent an inflatable ball, allowing you to ‘walk on water’ – though it is not exactly sailing, it sure is a fun way to get around.

Enough with the water, but not enough with Giethoorn

Though boating is the main tourist attraction in the town, it is not the only way to spend some quality time.

Bearing in mind that this is, after all, a Dutch town, you can be sure that the bike scene won’t disappoint you. There are, of course, many opportunities to rent a bike or join a bike tour to explore the town and the picturesque Dutch countryside.

And if you prefer good old walking, set out on the 15-km Giethoorn Walking Route, which will lead you to another nearby water village – Dwarsgracht.

You can also easily reach several museums, including “ ‘t Olde Maat Uus”, which is actually a typical farm where you can see how life in Giethoorn has changed over the past 100 years. There’s also the stone and minerals museum called “The old Earth”, and “The Histomobil”, which displays a great collection of old cars and motorcycles.

And if you believe that trying the local food is a must for every trip, worry not – there are more than enough restaurants here. You can sample a dish that is even harder to pronounce than the name of a Dutch city!

Interesting facts:

• When the first inhabitants of the town first arrived, they found thousands of horns of wild goats who had died in a flood. That is the story of  how the town got its name, which literally translates as “goat horn”.
• The town was the set of a famous 1958 Dutch comedy: Fanfare. Watch the black-and-white movie masterpiece for some more Dutch vibes.

 Not so interesting, but helpful facts:

• To get to Giethoorn from Amsterdam by train takes about 2 hours. From Amsterdam Central Station you take the train to Steenwijk station (the fare costs about 20€). From Steenwik station take bus 70 to the center of Giethoorn (there are buses every hour from 6.25 to 18.25 Monday-Friday; from 8.51 to 18.51 on Saturday and from 9.26 to 18.26 on Sunday).
• You can check the train timetables on this site.
• You can find an organized day trip from Amsterdam for about 100€.
• Arrive as early as possible, especially during the high season, to be sure that you can find a free boat to rent.

Pin it for later:

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Electric bikes are generally classified into two categories: with a throttle and with pedal assist. E-bikes with a throttle function like a motorcycle as they could run with little to no pedaling at all. On the other hand, e-bikes with pedal assist require pedaling, but pedal assistance can be adjusted from minimal or maximum power. 

Electric bikes with pedal assist are the best option for those who want to experience the feeling of riding a regular bike but with an extra boost. Therefore, if you’re determined to achieve your fitness goals, spend more time outdoors, and reduce your carbon footprint, this e-bike can be your perfect companion. 

If you’re still confused about how pedal assistance works, don’t worry because you’re on the right page. This content will be your complete guide on e-bikes with pedal assist and how they can be your best outdoor travel buddy.

How Do Electric Bikes With Pedal Assist Work?

When you start pedaling, the electric bike begins to provide you with an extra boost. The built-in sensor senses the action and stimulates the electric motor to produce additional power. Therefore, pedaling is much better and easier than riding a conventional bike. 

You’ll be more confident visiting places your regular bike can’t reach and get there much faster with pedal assistance. And if you use your e-bike to commute to work, you don’t have to worry about getting to the office all sweaty and haggard-looking. 

Furthermore, pedal assistance makes biking more enjoyable and exciting, and you can be wherever you want, whenever you want.

Is The Power Boost Adjustable?

Electric bikes with pedal assist have features that allow you to adjust the level of power assistance. If you want to get your adrenaline pumping and reach your fitness goals, you may consider reducing the level of boost it provides. 

Once the setting has been adjusted to low, you have nothing to rely on but pure pedal power. And it can make you feel extremely heavy and tired, especially when you’re going uphill. But take a look at the bright side. You’ll have more opportunities to boost your strength, endurance, and resistance, keeping your body physically strong and healthy.

On the other hand, you may set the power assistance level to maximum if you want a relaxed and easy biking experience. This way, you’ll reach your destination without getting overly exhausted and keep sweat at bay.

What Are The Types Of Sensors For Electric Bikes With Pedal Assist?

As mentioned earlier, an electric bike with pedal assist uses a sensor. It functions like a nerve that senses a pedal action and delivers a message to the motor system to produce and provide additional power. And it often comes in two different types: torque and cadence sensors. 

• Torque Sensor

This type of sensor works by sensing how hard you press on the pedal. The amount of force you exert will be translated into energy to provide you with an additional power boost. If you want an electric bike with torque-sensing pedal assist, ensure that it can provide an instant surge of power that matches your press on the pedal.

Furthermore, a torque-based pedal assist feels like riding a regular bike since you’ll be able to sense the vibration and the direct connection of the chain to the motor. 

• Cadence Sensor

On the other hand, cadence sensors pick up how fast your pedaling speed or cadence is. 

For example, if you start slow, the motor will produce a maximum amount of energy. However, if your speed has increased and reached a predefined threshold, the motor will reduce the amount of energy it can provide. 

In addition, a cadence-based pedal assist only requires a slight amount of pressure to operate. This makes it a better option for recreational use and for those suffering from knee pain as they find it more comfortable than torque-based pedal assist. 

Can Two Different Sensors Work At The Same Time?

Yes, there are electric bikes that offer both torque and cadence-based sensors in their systems. In this case, you’ll be able to experience the benefits of two different pedal assist sensors simultaneously. You’ll benefit from the reactiveness of the former and the light-touch pedal of the latter.

If you’re interested in an electric bike with pedal assist, check out your local bike shops for more details.

Why Should You Consider It As Your Outdoor Buddy?

There are many reasons why an electric bike with pedal assist would make an excellent outdoor travel buddy.

• Easy And Comfortable Riding: As mentioned earlier, an e-bike with pedal assist can make biking easier and more comfortable. It allows you to ride a bike to work without looking sweaty and in a total hot mess.
• Can Handle Rough Roads: The pedal-assist feature provides an additional power boost to help you traverse rough and choppy terrain without a hitch.
• Easy Going Uphill: Inclined planes and hills are the common enemies of bikers, but not anymore. With pedal assistance, riding across the top of the hill will be manageable and quick, thanks to the extra dose of power.
• Fitness Benefits: You may include riding an e-bike with pedal assist as part of your fitness routine. If you want an extreme ride, simply adjust the level of pedal assistance to low. Cycling regularly will help improve your physical strength and endurance.
• Sustainable: Riding an e-bike with pedal assist is a sustainable and eco-friendly option as it does not use fossil fuels and is emission-free. 

Final Words

An electric bike with pedal assist can be your best outdoor buddy. It provides an extra energy boost when you need it most, such as going uphill. Also, it won’t leave you as sweaty and exhausted as when riding a conventional bicycle, making your biking experience a breeze. Best of all, by reducing your carbon footprint, you help address climate change.  

The post Electric Bike With Pedal Assist: Your Outdoor Travel Buddy appeared first on 203Challenges.

Here are our top 3 reasons to visit the Netherlands this spring:

#1 Cycling adventures

Cycling in Holland | © NBTC

One of the most important components of life in the Netherlands is cycling. Locals literally live on their fiets (bike). Bikes are used to get around in the city and between cities, transport your groceries, furniture, pets and even children.

So, it would be a shame not to explore the country on two wheels. It is indeed the only way to feel the true Dutch spirit. Rent a bike from one of the numerous rentals and hit the road. Whether you want to roam around big urban centers like Amsterdam and Rotterdam or discover the charms of the blossoming countryside, you can easily do so on a bicycle. The Netherlands has to offer 32,000 km of cycling paths that are waiting to be explored. Choose among the endless cycling roads and plan your trip with a handy cycle planner that is also available in English.

If you are in the mood for something new, why not try bicycle hitchhiking in Amsterdam? All you have to do is look for a bike with a yellow backie and shout “Backie!”.

#2 Endless fields filled with flowers

Cycling among tulips in Holland | © NBTC

In spring, the Netherlands turns into a paradise for every flower lover. March is the start of the crocus season, followed by the gentle daffodils and the fragrant hyacinths. Don’t miss on the iconic tulips that show their enchanting colors from mid-April to mid-May.

The best place to enjoy Dutch tulips is the Keukenhof or the world’s biggest flower exhibition, which is just 30 minutes away from Amsterdam. The garden is gorgeous in spring, showcasing over 7 million blooming bulbs, with a total of 800 varieties of tulips. The place is also hosting various flower-related events like a roses show, freesia show, and the world’s biggest lily show. Other major tulip farms are located in the Noordoostpolder and along the coast of the Hague and Leiden.

#3 Dutch café culture

A cafe in Holland | © NBTC

Dutch cafés are laid-back and social spaces to talk, drink and celebrate life. Most of them are located right by the famous Dutch canals or have a gorgeous green garden. Soak up some sun (which is rare and highly valued in the Netherlands) while enjoying a tasty snack and a cold beer. Opt for a traditional Heineken or one of the exquisite Belgian varieties that are among the local favorites. When food is concerned, locals worship the taste of deeply fried kibbeling (cod) that is dipped in a fresh garlic or tartar sauce. Sweet lovers can enjoy a delicious stroopwafel (a waffle consisting of two sheets of baked dough and a syrupy caramel layer in the middle) that is best washed down with a latte.

If your mouth is watering and you long for a trip across the flat and colorful fields of the Netherlands, it`s high time to start planning your Dutch trip. Happy traveling!

***

A passionate writer, journalist, and explorer, Yoana Hristova (www.yoanahristova.com) has worked and studied in Bulgaria, the Netherlands, Denmark, and Norway. Currently based in Bulgaria, she is always on the lookout for great stories that inspire us to travel, grow and discover what life has to offer.

The post 3 reasons to visit the Netherlands in spring appeared first on 203Challenges.

Yellow Backie is a unique possibility for visitors to experience Amsterdam through the eyes of an Amsterdammer, and for Amsterdammers to meet new people from around the globe. It’s a bit like Couchsurfing, on a bike, without the smelly socks in your living room.

As we wanted to know more about the idea, here is what Martin Luyckx from Yellow Backie shared with us:

Yellow Backie is… Amsterdam style hitchhiking. An initiative to spark some love between Amsterdam locals and its visitors with a famous Dutch custom: riding on the luggage rack of a friend s bike.

Riding on the luggage rack of a friend s bike in Amsterdam is… very common and also a lot of fun.

Locals take part because… they want to show foreigners that they are open to meeting new people, and that we are not afraid of tourists.

Hitchhiking a bike in Amsterdam is better than other transport because… it is free and your Backie Driver will provide you with information only locals know about!

What tourists usually don’t understand about Amsterdam’s cycling culture is… our bicycle lanes! Also traffic regulations are quite the same for bicycles as they are for cars. For instance, we have to wait for traffic lights, have right of way when we come from the right and are not allowed to cycle on the sidewalk.

You can get a free bike ride in Amsterdam by… shouting BACKIE! as loud as possible.

You can become a Yellow Backie driver by… sending us a good motivation through our website.

The post Amsterdam style hitchhiking: Take a yellow bike ride appeared first on 203Challenges.

***

Now, the dust of the city is gone. And the sheep for sale by the side of the road. And the goats tied to rusty pick-up trucks. So too the chimneys’ smoke, the crowded bus stops and the windowless breeze block walls. The cacophony of squealing brakes and lisping voices, of traffic whistles and loud abrasive horns, sounds only now as a memory; a vague recollection, no longer in my ears, but somewhere in the faded distance.

Above the dryness of the empty steppe, the heat of the air swells and grows humid. The light, spattering rain from the gathering clouds promises downpour, and soon enough I am trundling over the earth, away from the road, in search of a place to camp. Fat drops darken the ground and the sandy earth drinks, thirstily. I find a place to camp on a gentle slope. Far across the weeping valley, a cluster of Gers, white against the green, huddles against the rain, so distant that I see the horses gallop, before I hear the sound of hooves.

I wait in my tent for the rain to pass – the same green yellow walls; the spread of books, and clothes, and maps across the floor, the dried-out mud; the dampened smell of everywhere I’ve been all mixed to make the scent I know so well that now I barely notice it; as one’s own childhood home smells of nothing.

Only several hours later does the sun make its presence felt; light, warming rays shine bright through translucent walls. The new light is accompanied by a beautiful, mourning voice, singing outside my tent. Its tones ache gently through the walls, without sudden turns or staccato beats. It is simply an announcement; I am here.

As I open the zip the singing stops. Outside there is a boy my age; his horse waits patiently a few yards away. He wears a long deep yellow robe, tied with a red cloth sash around his waist. He walks slowly towards me and I invite him to sit down.

His name is Mungo, he tells me. He is a malchin, a herdsman. We sit around my phrasebook, pointing. He is married, has two brothers, and he lives with his parents, across the valley. I take out a packet of sweets I bought in Ulaanbaatar, and offer him one. We speak in gestures and smiles, little else, and he plays, fascinated, with various parts of my bike. He points inside the tent, asking for permission to have a look. He moves the zip, tentatively up and down. Has he seen a zip before? His eyes are like mine when I saw the camels. We sit a while longer, outside eating apples, and he leaves saying goodbye, and we both say thank you.

Later, I am making coffee on my stove, the percolator bubbling and hissing out steam, when a sound startles me. I look up to see a horse galloping towards me, full pelt, heading straight for my tent. At the last moment, the horse rears up on its hind legs and shudders to a halt. Another malchin jumps down from the saddle. He is older, fatter, but smiles as he takes my hand and shakes it firmly with apparent friendliness. Again, I share fruit and chocolate; I offer him a cigarette and he takes one, holding it out for me to light. I pour the bitter black coffee into two cups and watch as he winces at its taste.

Again, we flick through the phrasebook. I point at the words as my pronunciation renders meaningless everything I say. He tells me that he lives alone and, pointing to the clouds, still dark in the sky, he invites me to spend the night in his Ger. I am excited, curious to look inside these homes like no other I have seen, and I hurry to say yes.

He asks me for some money to buy airag, fermented mare’s milk, and I root around in my pocket for spare notes. I give him 5000 tögrög, about £1.50, and he smiles and puts his thumbs up. It is agreed.

It is only as he begins to rip tent pegs from the ground that I notice he is drunk. I call for him to stop and collect the pegs that he has thrown across the floor. It is time, perhaps, to be on my guard, but not yet cause for panic. He sits, smoking a cigarette, and watches as I lift my panniers out, set them on the ground, roll the tent into its bag, and begin to load the bike. We are almost ready.

It is now that he changes. He pushes my bike to the ground and kicks my helmet, motioning to hit me. His eyes have grown hard and violent and he grinds his teeth, swinging his fists and I jump out of his way. For a moment I stand, perplexed at this change of behaviour. In an instant he has turned and we stand, staring at each other in silence. Then he smiles, steps over the bike and comes towards me slowly. I am ready to duck. To run. I am not ready to fight. But he hugs me, tightly, drunkenly, and I feel the wetness of his lips upon my cheek. I smile at him, and return to pick up my bike, resolved to leave. Again, he pushes it to the floor, and grinds his teeth.

I duck down to pick up my helmet and put it on. When I look up he has taken out his horse whip, and it comes crashing down over my head, with a snap.

“Bayta,” I say, “Goodbye.” I am pleading, I realise. He grinds his teeth.

It is time to leave. To do anything to leave. I pick up my bike and push it against him as he tries to force it to the ground, and now I stare at him with anger.

“Go home,” I say in English. I spit out the words. I am scared. Again, he swings his fists. He pushes the bike over, but immediately repents, and smiling, with his thumbs up, comes to hug me. This time I back away. It is like watching a man hovering between two worlds, each one of them insane.

Again, I watch him clamber onto his horse. It takes him four drunken attempts, but eventually he manages it, and I watch with great relief as he trots away, towards his Ger, with my 5000 tögrög in his pocket.

He has covered just a few metres when he turns and, again, gallops towards me. He lashes wildly with the whip as I dive out of his path. He no longer seems drunk, but masterful and confident in his skills as a horseman and he spins around, swinging again for my scrambling body. Perhaps half a minute of this pantomime ensues before his former character resurfaces. Smiling again, he motions toward his Ger and indicates through gesture that I am welcome as his guest.

“Bayta” I say. Goodbye.

He stays there, stuck fast on the saddle, staring. I load the panniers onto my bike and cycle away, as fast as I can.

He is not following me. I am almost certain. But for the next 15 miles I check, glancing behind at every sound, at every panicked thought. I am surging with adrenaline, my heart beats, pounding into my chest and I feel it in my throat. When I eventually find somewhere to sleep, far from the road, I am intoxicated with fear. I bury myself in the grass and look down again at the road, in search of my pursuer, but the road is empty, and I try to imagine him, safely in his Ger, at the bottom of a bottle of airag.

I wake to find my legs stinging and red. In the rush to get away, or in the violent struggle over the bike, camping fuel spilt over my sleeping bag. Now my legs are covered in chemical burns; they will fester, and erupt in blisters the size of my fingers before I make it back to Ulaanbaatar.

***

Remember, the sport is very useful for your body and veins.

***

Sam’s book is available on Amazon:

Feature image: courtesy of Sam Gambier

Discover more travel books and interviews with travel authors here!

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His book, “Terning: Around the World by Bike”, is a story about the challenges he faced, but it is also a story about the kindness and generosity of the people he met along the way. As Sam says, “I am no brave adventurer; the book is the story of a twenty-three-year-old who cycled around the world in spite of himself, his flaws and (often pretty stupid) decisions’. 

We reached out to Sam to ask him about his dreams, his inspiring encounters on the road and his next challenges. There he is.

– Who is Sam Gambier and what are his dreams?

– I grew up in Cornwall, UK, and went to uni in London. When I was twenty-three, I left England and spent two years and eight months cycling around the world and since then have lived in Spain and China. (I know you didn’t really ask me, but…) I believe our experience on this planet should not be confined by the borders drawn across it and I feel lucky and guilty, in equal measure, that I was born in a place that allows me to explore the world more freely than most. I dream about a world in which we recognise ourselves as inhabitants of one shared place, rather than several disparate places separated from each other (though perhaps I should do less dreaming and more doing!).

– What was your motif to choose a bicycle as a means of transport to circumnavigate the world?

– A bicycle brings you closer to people than most other forms of transport could. The barrier of a window pane is removed, as is the ease and comfort that the window pane brings; the world is not framed for you to look at, rather you become part of the picture. On a bicycle you feel each metre, every hill and all the space between us, and I’m sure in some way this leads to a greater understanding of our world, at least its physical form. I am also quite a shy person, and a bicycle piled high with belongings starts conversations better than I do.

– What was the most heartwarming act of human kindness you experienced during your trip?

– I experienced so many moments of miraculous human kindness that it is really difficult to highlight just one. In almost every country I cycled through, people gave me food and shelter, and shared their lives with me. I think the place in which I was most overwhelmed by kindness was in Sumatera, Indonesia. Almost every day, people invited me into their homes: I slept on the floors of single-roomed houses with families of five or six; visited schools and mosques; rode about the towns visiting friends and seeing the local sights and was always met with openness, kindness and curiosity.

– What was the biggest challenge you hadn’t expected?

– Probably myself! Loneliness set in quick, and at the beginning I couldn’t shake the idea of spending so much time alone. Two-and-a-half-years by myself seemed unfathomable, and I felt the love I have for those close to me with a keenness I hadn’t experienced before. I am no brave adventurer; the book is the story of a twenty-three-year-old who cycled around the world in spite of himself, his flaws and (often pretty stupid) decisions. That I made it was a testament to the kindness and generosity of the people that I met; it was these meetings that made the journey worth it and encouraged me to carry on.

– What would you say to someone who considers repeating your feat?

– Do it, first and foremost. It will give you much more than you could ever put in and will be a life-affirming, enriching experience. People will show themselves to be wonderful and kind and you will see parts of the world which most people fly over or drive through. There is no need to plan in meticulous detail, but be prepared; it is a deeply rewarding way to travel, but it is not always the easiest. And, of course, you will not be repeating anything. I feel like when we travel we visit a time as much as a place. Even if you followed a route cycled a thousand times, it would be your adventure, remarkable and unique.

– What is your next big travel challenge?

– In the summer, I’m planning to walk a little way across Norway, from Otta to Odda, because 1.) it has a nice ring to it, 2.) it seems like a nice amount of walking to do in a month and 3.) it seems like it will be absolutely stunning. I’m a little older now, and maybe have more patience for walking; I’m looking forward to living in a tent in the real world and escaping the man-made one with jobs and bills and all that stuff for a little while.

– Share something inspiring with everyone reading this!

– Ummm… that’s put me on the spot! I really don’t consider myself to be a very inspiring person. The only thing I will say, if you are thinking about going on a mammoth adventure, is that if I can do it, anyone can.

***

Sam Gambier’s book, “Terning: Around the World by Bike”, is on Amazon here: 

To get an idea of what you can expect, read an excerpt from the book HERE.

All photos: Courtesy of Sam Gambier

Discover more travel books and interviews with travel authors here!

The post Sam Gambier’s trip around the world: 2,5 years by bike appeared first on 203Challenges.

1. Riding at a speed less than 50 km/h is almost rude to the other bikers. Indulge in your leisurely strolls elsewhere – in the Netherlands you have got to be fast and furious on the bike.

2. You always go first, at every intersection. Everyone who is not riding a bike is obligated to always give way to everyone who is on a bike. That’s right, if you run over a pedestrian on the bike lane, he is the one getting fined, not you.

3. There is no such thing as rain. Great Britain may be the queen of bad weather, but anyone who has ever spent a bit more time in the Netherlands knows too well that you can corrode here. In most parts of the country, it rains about 33 times per day, so you need to learn how to ignore the showers. They do not exist. You have a few options – to ride your bike with a raincoat (you d be the only one, unless it is positively pouring), to bike with an umbrella in one hand (requires a certain level of mastery and you will be mocked at) or to simply stop noticing the rain.

4. Your bicycle will be stolen. Multiple times. Only when you can calmly accept this reality are you ready to ride in the Netherlands. Then you can even go up a level – steal a bike of your own (joking, of course).

5. Your bike will be equipped with knickknacks. Plastic flowers and a huge wooden crate, instead of a bike basket, would do as well. Bicycle-abominations are not only permitted, but actually encouraged.

6. Pedestrians – your worst enemy. They must be booed, damned and hunted down until chased away from the bike lane. It is usually tourists that make the mistake of strolling down the bike lane and usually they only make it once.

7. Watch out for the bicycle tow truck. You can’t just leave your bike anywhere. Actually, you could, but the bicycle tow truck might sniff it out and take it away. A bicycle tow truck is not like your old boring tow truck. Instead of a wheel-lift, there are two middle-aged men that lift your bike from the ground and into a van. That’s why you need to use the abundant bicycle parking areas and racks. In all honesty, even people who have been living in the Netherlands for years, have seen the bike tow truck either rarely or never, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t park where you are supposed to.

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