Set against the backdrop of the Sierra Blanca Mountains, Marbella has near perfect weather, pristine beaches, championship golf courses and shopping to die for.

Having a reputation of being a place that only the wealthy can afford might put some people off visiting Marbella, but it shouldn’t as there is plenty to see and do that won’t cost a fortune.

Sure, it can be expensive in the bars and clubs along the “Golden Mile” and the marina at Puerto Banus, but if you are savvy, Marbella can be no more expensive than anywhere else on the Costa del Sol.

How to get to Marbella from Malaga Airport

Easy to get to from almost any airport in the UK, Malaga Airport (AGP) is the gateway to the Costa del Sol and just 52 kilometers from Marbella.

The quickest and easiest way to get to Marbella is to take the new toll road where you won’t see much traffic at all. A taxi transfer from Malaga airport to Marbella is a great option if you don’t fancy driving in Spain. The journey along the AP-7 (Autopista del Mediterráneo) takes just under 40 minutes.

Where to stay

In order to get the best out of your weekend break try and book a hotel in the center of town. By staying in town you can hit the beach during the day and enjoy the bars and restaurants at night all without the need for a car.

Following a sleek remodeling, the 4-star beachfront Amàre Marbella has a South Beach, Miami vibe, with its beach club and rooftop bar an ideal place to chill out.

The Amàre is just a few minutes walk from the Plaza de Los Naranjos in the old town and has all the seafront restaurants and bars right on your doorstep. Prices can be high during the summer at around 600€ per night but if you visit out of season a double room can be had for just over 100€.

A less expensive option is the 2-star H Juan Vivienda Turistica Marbella, close to the old town and a short walk to the beach. Prices start from around 30€ off-season.

Beaches

Marbella has 23 beaches to choose from including some that have been given the prestigious Blue Flag status for the amenities and cleanliness. Except for the private beach clubs, all you need to pay for are your sunbed and umbrella.

Places like Niki Beach and Ocean Club charge a hefty price tag for their sun loungers but you can have that beach club vibe for free if you hang out at the Bounty Beach chiringuito.

Where to eat

If you don’t want to pay a premium for your meal, avoid all the establishments along the seafront. If you go just a few streets back you will find plenty of bars offering a menu del dia for less than 15€.

Another alternative is to a sit-down meal is to go bar hopping in the old town while feasting on tapas. Tapas are a small bite-sized portion of food that in Andalucia is usually free when you order a drink.

Hit the clubs

For an epic night out, head to Marbella’s glitzy neighbor Puerto Banus. Full of designer boutiques and trendy bars built around its marina Puerto Banus is the place to go if you want to party all night.

The News Café and Linekers are free to enter, as are several of the clubs if you get there before midnight. Others like Pangea charge an entrance fee, but it usually comes with a complimentary drink.

Sightseeing

To experience Marbella at its best you only need to wander down the narrow cobbled streets in the old part of town or “El Casco Antiguo” as it is referred to by locals.

Stop for a drink or homemade ice cream at one of the bars in the Plaza de Los Naranjos (Orange Square) and watch the world go by.

In the square, you will also find a tourist office where you can get a map to discover all the important buildings and fountains that were built during the Renaissance.

Shopping

If you are looking for an unusual souvenir of your time in Marbella, check out the artisan market around the marina. Held every Sunday from lunchtime this is the place to go shopping for jewelry, antiques, and ceramics.

The post How to Spend 48 Hours in Marbella appeared first on 203Challenges.

#1 Before going on a trip together, compile a themed playlist

It’s a proven fact that music tends to remind us of the places we heard it for the first time. 

How to do it: If you’re going abroad, find the Top 40 most popular current songs as well as some evergreen classics. When you arrive, listen to a local radio station in the car or on your smartphone. Use song recognizing apps (like Shazam) to see the artist and the name of the songs you like on the local radio. Later they will bring you back to your trip.

#2 Trust a friend to organize your trip

Set a budget and leave all the organization to a close friend. It could be a surprise – you simply receive an envelope with reservations, GPS coordinates, and a list of the necessary luggage. You can in turn organize the next trip for a friend.

#3 Sunrise and a morning picnic

Get in your car and drive at night. Go to the beach or another beautiful place to watch the sunrise. Watch the sun coming up with friends. Have a picnic in the morning and then take a short nap on the blanket.

Discover more: 9 fun picnic ideas for an unforgettable day

#4 Spend a day at a theme park

Try everything, no exceptions – from cotton candy to a merry-go-round and shooting games.

#5 Enthuse a friend with your hobbies

If you’re into rock climbing, take a friend to a beginner’s class. If you like skiing, invite a friend to the slopes for a weekend to show them the first moves. If you enjoy traveling alone, get on the train with a friend and sit in different compartments. When you arrive, each of you can see the city on their own for an hour (or two, or three). After that you can meet and discuss your separate experiences.

If you like running, you can invite friends over for a recent long-distance running race. 5K, 10K, and even a marathon are fine. Running allows us to temporarily let go of the pressure of reality and feel the joy of our bodies and minds.
You can start with a relatively easy 5K competition, persevere in running, and work hard towards first place. If you both get 5K medals, that’s something to brag about too.

Read more: Why everyone must travel alone at least once a year

#6 Come up with new names to use while you’re abroad

Stephanie and John become Stefana and Johann in the Netherlands, then Stefania and Ion in Romania, and Stefania and Giovanni in Italy. The names could be completely different from your own. For example, after passing the border, Peter automatically becomes Stewart, Ana is now Martha – only the customs officers checking your passports will know the truth.

If you’re camping or in the mountains, come up with funny scout names according to your personality – The Big Berry, The Quick Hatchet, The Eagle Eye, etc.

#7 Print a photo of the person who can’t join you on the trip

If someone in the group can’t come on the long-planned weekend trip… well, you’ve got nothing else to do but print their head on a piece of cardboard and glue it to a stick. Then take a picture of the friend who stayed behind (of their hapless printed head, that is) in front of every attraction and beer, and send them the pictures in real time.

#8 Do a good deed together

The world is full of people and animals who need help, and the Internet is full of information about them. Choose a cause that is important to you, get organized and visit a place where you can do a good deed. You will see a new place, meet new people and feel satisfied all at once. The people you’re helping will feel refreshed and optimistic to see not one but a whole group of people willing to help out. 

#9 Hitchhike to see who will arrive first

Choose a final destination and split up to hitchhike alone or in teams. The first to arrive wins, the rest – well, their treat.

#10 Vote the best pizza (steak, burger)

Include an important mission in your trip – to find the most delicious pizza, steak, burger, etc.

How to do it: You can create a strict evaluation system including different criteria (taste, aroma, service) and everyone gives a score from 1 to 10. You can divide Rome into neighborhoods and split up to look for the best gelato (ice-cream) until you find it – or catch a cold.

#11 Ask a friend to challenge you to do something at the place you’re going to

Make your trip even more interesting by asking your friends to come up with a challenge. In Brazil – play football with the locals on the beach, take a picture with a toucan, drink coconut water with a straw right from the coconut; in Cuba – have a cigar at the sea boulevard Malecon… Take the list of challenges with you and don’t come back until you’ve completed them all. Trying to fulfill them will introduce you to interesting people and will put you in unexpected situations (tested on a number of occasions by the author of this post).

#12 Take a picture at the same place every year

It’s a wonderful tradition which maintains friendships, reminds you to travel and gives you a reason to see your friends more regularly (even when different things in your life separate you for longer periods). You can pick a day that is important to everyone – somebody’s birthday, New Year’s Eve, etc.

#13 Take a friend on a surprise trip

Organize an unforgettable trip for a friend – for their birthday or just because! Here’s my elaborate guide How to plan a surprise (birthday) trip in less than 30 minutes.

#14 Visit a friend without being invited

Bring something to drink and the ingredients for a recipe to cook together. It’s enough to call and check if your friend is home and if they have a couple of free hours. The rest is a surprise.

#15 Travel by unusual means of transport

Choose a means of transport you haven’t traveled with before and see the world differently. You don’t have to buy anything, just hire it for a day. Travel in a group. And for a truly unique experience, consider exploring the picturesque landscapes on horseback. You can find some of the best places for horse riding at https://www.thailandnomads.com/best-places-for-horse-riding-chiang-mai/.

A couple of ideas: A bike, electric bike, scooter (you can see scooter guide here), motorcycle, convertible, carriage, boat.

#16 Create a short movie from your trip

Make videos of yourself, of landscapes or of interesting people you’ve met. Then compile all the videos in one short movie. If you’re very much into it, add the songs you listened to on the road. There are plenty of free and easy to use programs to help you compile movies.

#17 Send a paper postcard by post

Do you enjoy receiving postcards? One of those old-time cardboard postcards you need a stamp for, not an internet connection. The next time you travel to another city or abroad, send a real paper postcard from a real post office.

How to do it: Write down your friends’ and relatives’ addresses in advance. Sign the postcards and send them by post. Even if they arrive after you’ve already come back, the gesture will be appreciated.

Pin this amazing list of ideas to your travel board:

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Embarking on a journey is always an exhilarating experience, and having the right travel bag is an integral part of this adventure. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a novice, a stylish, functional bag can’t be underestimated. An ideal travel bag is not just about carrying your belongings; it reflects your style and complements your journey.

In this article, you’ll learn about various trendy travel bags designed for your weekend escapes. These bags, each unique in its way, are geared to enhance your travel experience and add a dash of panache to your voyage. 

So, fasten your seat belt as you embark on a journey to discover eleven standout travel bags for your next weekend’s getaway. Let the adventure begin!

1. Desire Functionality? Go For Versatile Totes

The trusty tote bag can be a traveler’s best friend. Their versatility is highly praised, making them perfect for quick weekend escapes, a point firmly endorsed by elleblonde.com. With their spacious interiors and open design, totes allow for easy packing and access to your essentials.

Not only are the totes practical, but they’re also stylish. From luxury leather totes to vibrant canvas designs, totes can add a pop of personality to your travel wardrobe. Plus, once you reach your destination, your tote can double up as a beach, shopping, or day bag.

2. Want Style? Choose Leather

Leather bags are the epitome of style and durability. Von Baer’s guide says choosing leather is the best way to look stylish while on your trip to Europe. Whether you opt for shiny patent leather or a rustic distressed look, a leather bag is bound to turn heads.

Not to mention, leather bags are incredibly durable. While they may require more care than your average bag, they’re designed to last. So, it’s not just a bag; it’s an investment that could serve you for several trips.

3. Crave Versatility? Opt For The Timeless Duffel Bag

The duffel bag, often known for its cylindrical shape and sturdy material, is a favorite among travelers. It’s incredibly versatile, making it ideal for any trip. Furthermore, it’s compact enough to fit into most overhead plane compartments, a perfect companion for your weekend escapade.

The duffel bag has evolved in various materials and styles in recent years. From chic leather to durable canvas, there’s a duffel bag to suit every traveler’s taste. Remember, while style is important, opt for a duffel with good strap support and zippers for practicality.

4. Need Comfort? Consider Classy Backpacks

Stylish backpacks have transformed from simple bags to a style statement. They come in various materials, colors, and designs that can elevate any outfit. Whether you prefer a vintage rucksack or a sleek modern design, there’s a backpack for everyone.

Backpacks aren’t just about style; they’re also about comfort. The double strap design distributes weight evenly, reducing your back and shoulder strain. Also, backpacks typically have multiple compartments, aiding in better organizing your belongings.

5. Love Technology? Pick Smart Suitcases

Embrace the future of travel with smart suitcases. As the name suggests, these suitcases have many high-tech features like GPS tracking, USB charging ports, and remote lock systems. No more worrying about losing your luggage or running out of battery on your devices.

While these suitcases can be on the pricier side, the convenience they offer is unparalleled. However, check airline regulations regarding smart suitcases, as some airlines restrict suitcases with inbuilt batteries.

6. Prefer Compactness? Select Compact Crossbodies

Crossbody bags are a smart choice for those who prefer traveling light. Their compact design allows you to carry your essentials without feeling weighed down. Also, having your bag in front of you can provide a sense of security, especially in crowded places.

They come in various designs, ranging from casual to chic. So, whether you’re exploring a city or attending a concert, there’s a crossbody bag to match your outfit and occasion.

7. Seek Protection? Go With Hardshell Luggage

For those who prioritize the safety of their belongings, hardshell luggage is the way to go. These suitcases, made from durable materials like polycarbonate or ABS, offer superior protection against impacts, ensuring your belongings stay safe.

While hardshell luggage can be heavier than soft-shell counterparts, many come with 360-degree wheels for easy maneuverability. Plus, they’re available in many designs and colors, so you don’t have to compromise on style.

8. Yearn For Trendiness? Try Fashionable Fanny Packs

Fanny packs or belt bags have made a stylish comeback. These small pouches around the waist are perfect for storing essentials like your phone, wallet, and keys. They’re hands-free, easy to access, and secure.

Fanny packs have shed their retro image and embraced modern design elements. They’re available in chic designs, bold colors, and luxe materials. So, whether you’re hitting the beach or exploring a new city, a fanny pack can be a trendy and practical accessory.

9. Fancy A Balance? Grab Innovative Weekenders

Weekender bags are larger totes with enough space for clothes and essentials for a weekend trip. They blend the best style and utility, making them an excellent choice for short trips.

These bags come in various materials, from canvas to leather, and can accommodate everything you need while still fitting in overhead compartments. Plus, with their stylish design, you’ll look straight out of a travel magazine.

10. Admire Elegance? Get Elegant Satchels

Satchels are a perfect blend of fashion and functionality. Their structured silhouette and flap cover design make them an elegant addition to your travel wardrobe. Besides, with multiple compartments, a satchel can keep your essentials organized and easily accessible.

Leather satchels are especially popular for their timeless appeal and durability. However, satchels are now available in a variety of materials and designs. You can find satchels in vibrant prints, pastel hues, or classic neutrals to suit your style.

The satchel’s crossbody design allows you to keep your hands free, making it ideal for city tours or sightseeing. It’s the bag that screams style without compromising on convenience.

11. Like Casual Chic? Try Handy Hobo Bags

Hobo bags, characterized by their crescent shape and slouchy design, are a great option for travelers who like to pack a bit extra. These bags are generally spacious and can comfortably fit all your essentials, plus some souvenirs you might pick up along the way.

These bags aren’t just about space; they’re also about style. With their relaxed shape and casual vibe, hobo bags can add a touch of boho-chic to your travel outfits.

Moreover, hobo bags usually come with a single, wide strap that sits comfortably on your shoulder, making it easy to carry around all day. They’re the bags that combine comfort, capacity, and style in one package.

Conclusion

So, there you have it – a comprehensive list of travel bags to suit every kind of traveler. The next time you plan a trip, choose a bag that matches your travel needs and style. After all, a journey isn’t just about the destination; it’s about enjoying every moment, including looking fabulous while you’re at it.

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The Devil’s Bridge over the Arda river is one of the most picturesque bridges in Bulgaria (spelled Дяволски мост or Dyavolski most in Bulgarian). It is located in a scenic valley near the villages of Dyadovtsi and Latinka in Southern Bulgaria, a must for your Rhodope Mountains route.

The bridge is 420 meters high locked in a gorge surrounded by steep mountains. It is 56 meters long, 3.5 meters wide and it consists of 3 beautiful arcs.

The bridge was built in the beginning of the 16th century when such huge dimensions were not a common sight. It still strikes visitors as an impressive Medieval structure.

The Devil’s Bridge | by Klearchos Kapoutsis

Back then, Bulgaria was still under the rule of the Ottoman Empire. However, Selim I, the sultan at that time, wanted to connect the southern Bulgarian lands with the Aegean Sea. This was a strategic move owing to the land’s abundance of natural resources. The sultan wanted to boost the empire’s production and trading market.

Why Devil’s bridge

The legend behind the name tells the story of a Bulgarian girl who was running away from the Ottoman governors. When she crossed over the bridge, the persecutors thought they saw the Devil in the water underneath and they did not dare to go on. The girl was set free.

There’s picnic area nearby, so you can relax and admire the view.

The Devil’s Bridge | by Klearchos Kapoutsis

How to get to the Devil’s Bridge

There’s no public transportation so you’ll have to rent a car. There’s a road all the way to the bridge. The Devil’s Bridge is some 300 km from Sofia but save at least 5 hours for driving as a big part of the route is mountainous.

The post Devil’s Bridge in Bulgaria – cross over to the other side appeared first on 203Challenges.

Anybody who has visited Zagreb once always looks for a way to come back. There is some inexplicable magic in the charming streets, old churches and the feeling of seething life in the Croatian capital. Here is a list of the most important things you have to see, do or taste while you are there:

Zagreb Cathedral of the Assumption of Mary (Zagrebačka katedrala) – You will notice its high towers from any point in the city, while its beauty seen from a close view will definitely enchant you. It is the highest building in Zagreb, as well as in all of Croatia. The cathedral can seat up to 5,000 people. Inside it is adorned with stained glasses and massive statues, while its Gothic architecture creates a very specific atmosphere. It has almost twin towers, with only 1 meter difference. The northern one is 105 m high, while the southern – 104 m. The cathedral is situated in the central part of the city, at the Kapitol Square.

St. Mark s Church (Crkva svetog Marka) – What is impressive about it is its unusual roof – a colourful tiling representing the coat of arms of Zagreb and of the Habsburg Kingdom of Croatia. The Habsburg parochial temple dates back to the XIII century. The bell tower was built in 1725. There are three sumptuous altars in the church. A sculpture of the crucifix stands over the major one, while the on the altar dedicated to Virgin Mary there is a gold-plated sculpture of the saint. The church is located in the heart of the Old Town of Zagreb – Gornji Grad.

Mimara Museum (Muzej Mimara) – More than 3,500 pieces of art from different places and periods are exposed here. The exhibits are donated by a private collector. The archaeological collection is comprised of items from Egypt, Mesopotamia, Persia, Greece, Rome. You will see exhibits made of glass and textile, as well as a rich furniture collection from the Middle East. There are also works of Rembrandt, Caravaggio, Goya, Velazquez, and many others. The museum is sheltered in a Renaissance school building close to the Croatian National Theatre, in the central part of Zagreb. You will find your way following the numerous skateboarders in the area.

Maksimir Park – This is the largest park in Zagreb. It was constructed in an old British style. Here you can have a well-deserved rest or just have great fun amidst the rich greenery and crystal lakes. You can even keep fit by jogging and cycling or sit in the cafes and restaurants with your friends. Kids, on the other hand, can enjoy the zoo sheltering pandas, lions, kangaroos, crocodiles and other animals.

Botanical garden (Botanicki vrt) – Placed in the heart of Zagreb, the botanical garden is a small oasis amidst the busy city. Take a walk in the fresh air or simply sit and observe the varied plant collections and flower-lined paths. You will see many different plant species, including some protected ones. In addition, you will notice big number of turtles basking in the sun around the lake.

Stone Gate (Kamenita vrata) – It used to be the entrance to the city in the past. Inside the gate itself, there is a statue of Saint Mary with the Child Jesus in a niche surrounded by metal bars. The statue dates back to the XVI century. It is believed that it is a wonder-working statue and that’s why so many people come here to light a candle and say a prayer. Pray from your heart and your wish will come true. The Stone Gate is situated in Gornji Grad.

Lotrscak Tower (Kula Lotrščak) – A loud bang can be heard from its top every day. But don’t worry, it is not an attack alert. As the legend says, King Bela IV of Hungary ordered the cannon he bequeathed to be used every day. And since January 1877, the cannon is fired every single day at noon. It is said that apart from observing the king’s order, the ritual is also used to adjust the clocks in the city. The tower was built in the middle of the XIII century to protect the city. It is made of stones, different in form and size, mixed with bricks. The Lotrscak Tower is situated in Gornji Grad.

Jarun Lake – This is the “sea” of Zagreb because it offers something to everyone. You can swim, sunbathe in the sand with a drink from the numerous bars and cafes, or simply have fun in the water by windsurfing, rowing, water skiing, water wheeling, and you can even go fishing at the quay. On dry land there are big playgrounds for beach volleyball, football, golf, as well as specialised jogging alleys. You can also ride a bike or go roller-skating. The lake is situated in the southern part of the city.

Medvedgrad Castle – This is the most significant architectural complex from the Middle Ages close to Zagreb. The aristocratic town dates back to the XIII century. The castle was built by the Bishop of Zagreb. The fortified walls are like rings, the towers are massive, while the entrances – well-fortified. Take a walk amidst the ruins and feel the spirit of time. Nowadays, knight tournaments and historical festivals are organised here. The castle is situated on the southern side of the Medvednica Mountain.

Archaeological Museum (Arheološki Muzej) – The museum is not very big but it stores more than 400,000 exhibits from different times and ages. Here you can see the world-famous ‘Zagreb mummy’ – a woman from Egypt who was discovered wrapped in a linen book containing the longest and still untranslated text in Etruscan. The collection of stone monuments from Roman times is really impressive. The museum is located in the central part of the city.

Museum of Contemporary Art (Muzej Suvremene Umjetnosti) – The museum presents both Croatian and foreign cultural heritage. It houses paintings, black and white drawings, sculptures, paper art, photos from the XIX and XX centuries, as well as a collection of films and videos produced in the 1960s. The museum also hosts temporary exhibitions. There is also a café inside the building.

Museum of Broken Relationships – Bring some tissues for a very emotional trip. This museum is one of a kind in the world. Here you will be faced with thousands of stories about broken relationships of couples from all over the world. You will see items connected with different emotions – broken picture frames with photos, broken vessels and vases, wedding dresses, damaged phones, forgotten stuffed toys. The museum has come up with an interesting cure for those overwhelmed with sorrow – a rubber that erases the bad memories. There is nothing to stop you from trying, is there? So take a look at the exhibits at the Museum of Broken Relationships.

Shopping in Zagreb – Fashion stores of world famous brands are lined up on the two sides of the main commercial street in Zagreb – the Ilica Street. There are also big universal stores offering everything. Tkalciceva Street (Tkalčićeva Ulica) is full of stores and galleries sheltered in XIX century houses. Kaptol Centar – the most modern mall in the city, is located in the same area, too.

Dolac Market – This is a popular market where local famers offer their fresh high-quality products – fruits, vegetables, fish, meat, cheese, freshly-baked pastries. The market is open every day except Sunday. It is located next to the Ban Jelacic Square, close to the Zagreb Cathedral.

Try some strukli – This is a traditional pastry dish with goats cheese, which can be either baked or boiled. It is similar to Bulgarian banitsa. It is best for breakfast and is offered in almost all bakeries. Bon Appétit!

Taste the paprenjaci – These biscuits will both delight and confuse you at the same time. The sweet-scented baked dish presents an unusual combination of honey, walnuts and… black pepper! This is the taste of Zagreb – original and unforgettable.

Nightlife in Zagreb – Tkalciceva Street (Tkalčićeva Ulica) is the most popular place to start the night fun with its numerous bars, restaurants, and cafes in Zagreb. Most of the discotheques in Zagreb open doors after midnight and close after 4 a.m. During the summer the nightlife in the city is concentrated around Jarun Lake. There is a great variety of cocktail bars, discotheques and clubs where you can have some fun.

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Organized bike tours are cool, but it’s much more exciting to plan your own bicycle adventure. You only need a good idea and a good friend/partner to join the party (although at least once a year I take my bike and go somewhere for the weekend by myself, which is just as good). Here are a few bicycle trip ideas for your next free weekend:

#1 Ride your bicycle slowly between villages or small towns

With a smile on your face, cross villages and talk to locals about this year’s apple harvest and how much a piglet costs (I bet you have no idea). Have a beer with one of those locals who spends the day scanning passers-by in cafes on the main square.

Photo: © Maria Angelova/ 203challenges.com

#2 Swap the bike lanes and village roads for dirt tracks

You can enjoy a little bit more seclusion by escaping the main roads and hitting the dirt tracks. Some people prefer a preconceived route, but personally I’m happy to just head into the forest and see where that seductive trail leads.

#3 Try to bike as far as you can in a day

You don’t have to cycle so hard that you drop dead at the end; just keep it pleasant but still challenging. If you’re in the mood to push yourself, however, try riding as fast and furious as you can.

Cycling at Larnaca Salt Lake, Cyprus | © Maria Angelova/www.203challenges.com

#4 Try mountain biking

The exciting thing about mountain biking is that a smooth descent can turn into an adrenaline-fueled obstacle course in a heartbeat. If you’re trying it for the first time, you might be about to discover your latest passion. 

#5 Organize a themed day tour in your city/neighborhood

Photo: © Maria Angelova/ 203challenges.com

We often forget that our own neighborhood is someone else’s tourist destination. Pretend to be a tourist and choose a theme (cathedrals, museums, historical buildings) around which to rediscover your surroundings. Calculate the cycling route that best allows you to visit several attractions in one day. Plan a lunch stop in a park or try out a new eatery.

#6 Organize a bike picnic

Choose a green picnic spot not far from the city and ride there. Load your backpack or basket with plenty of water, a bottle of wine and some sandwiches. Here you can find a list of creative themed picnic ideas.

#7 Bike for the sunset

A memorable sunset is a great reason to hop on your bike and head to a beautiful vantage point. Don’t forget lights and a headlamp for the way back.

#8 Cycling & camping

Photo: © Maria Angelova/ 203challenges.com

Mount your bike on your car rack (or transport the bike by train or bus if possible) and go to a secluded spot where you can spend the rest of the day cycling. When night falls, instead of rushing back home, pitch your tent or go to a campsite. Let the chirp of the crickets soothe your mind. Get the ​authentic cycling information from ​the Experts here.

How to really immerse yourself in the moment: For a moment, simply imagine what life would be like if you stayed home and slept in your bed every night instead of occasionally venturing into the wild. Listen to all the noises and soak in all the sights that you’d never have otherwise seen: the starry sky, the smell of the pine trees, the sound of the creek flowing by…

#9 Bike your way to a musical venue

Most open-air concerts and festivals have special bike parking zones where you can safely stow your two-wheeler while you enjoy the night. It’s good for your health and the environment!

#10 Load up with vitamins while you pedal

Your weekly fruit and vegetable shop might turn into an old-school, French-inspired experience if you don a beret and load your basket with goodies from the nearest farmer’s market.

#11 Join a quirky ride (vintage bicycles in Tuscany, anyone?)

Why not take part in a vintage-themed cycling event, or an eco-friendly bike race? This isn’t really DIY, but these events are so cool that they’re worth mentioning. Just check your local calendar for the next notable cycling event near you.

L’Eroica, Tuscany. Every year, thousands of cyclists put on vintage leather pants, hop on their vintage bikes, don a fancy cap and embark on a journey into the past. L’Eroica vintage bike ride is one of the most exciting ways to get to know Tuscany on two wheels. The event aims to preserve the romantic beauty of cycling’s past, without the competitive aspect. Eroica cycling events are also held in other places around the world, including California, Japan, Spain and Great Britain.

>>> Do you love your bike? (Of course you do!) Here’s our fun bike-themed playlist to listen to while you’re pedaling.

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