Travel

How to prepare for a bicycle trip

Published

6 months ago

November 29, 2022

If you think that traveling is all about getting on a plane or train, going to a city, taking pictures of the sights, and coming back, we can assure you that everything is much more exciting. Tourism involves different ways of entertaining the pastime. For example, hiking on foot on a pre-laid trail, rafting in a river by kayak or traveling by bicycle.

Bicycle travel is becoming more and more popular among today’s adventurers. There are many reasons for going on a trip on an iron horse. Someone wants to test themselves and test their endurance. Someone interested in exploring the area. Others seek to diversify hiking, increase distance and speed.

Cycling is good freedom of choice. The route can be changed on the fly if you want. In a pinch you can take public transport.

Traveling by bicycle is the best choice for a vacation. It is a good combination of recreation and sports. In addition, such a trip is not harmful to the environment.

Let’s figure out how to organize a bike trip on your own, how to plan a route and what to take with you? Web site

Destination Determination

If you organize a bicycle tour yourself, start by planning the route. There are three options:

Use a ready-made itinerary.
Choose a direction and decide what you want to see on the way.
Combine the two: take a ready-made itinerary and supplement it.

After defining a route and marking it on Google Maps, measure the length with a ruler. Add 20% to the resulting length, as Google Maps does not take into account the peculiarities of the terrain.

Split a route into days. For beginner cyclists, it is recommended to use no more than 60 km per day, and even less on the first and last day.

Take your planning seriously, because the first route affects whether you like cycling or not.

Do not strive to ride as many kilometers as possible, try to enjoy the adventure. Increase the distance gradually – despite the distance, pedaling will become easier and easier each day.

When planning your route, use the distance you are able to cover in a day as a guide. To gauge your ability, spend a day on your bike. Ride out of town at a comfortable pace. Evaluate the level of fatigue during the ride and the next day. After such a training session, you can objectively assess your strength and plan daily distances for future travel.

Types of bicycle travel

Trips over long distances are divided into these types:

autonomous;
semi-autonomous;
non-autonomous.

Autonomous

Autonomous bicycle travel involves detachment from civilization and infrastructure. These are cycling trips for experienced cyclists who know how to find water, organize a place to sleep and quickly cope with any problems. For autonomy, it is important to have a variety of equipment and be able to properly place it on the bike. Such hikes are long – from 500 km.

Semi-autonomous

Travelers sleep in tents, every day they travel many kilometers, but on the way there are villages and towns where they buy something they need. On such a trip you will need less equipment. The trip is not very expensive, because they cook food on their own, and spend the night in tents. The length of the trip is not very long. For such journeys are suitable countries in Europe.

Non-autonomous

Non-autonomous traveling is the most comfortable and suitable for beginners. They imply movement in the daytime and overnight stays in cities. You do not need a lot of equipment for such a trip. It is important to take care that you can find a place to sleep overnight, and take enough money with you. A good destination is Europe, because the infrastructure there is well developed.

Choosing a bike

A bicycle breakdown can ruin the experience of your tour. Before you travel, go to a repair shop to have your bike serviced. Do this even if you think your bike is in good condition.

For long rides, you need a universal hybrid or cross bike. It successfully combines the qualities of a road bike and a mountain bike. Some bicycle travelers go on bike trips on a road bike and even on a city bike.

It is desirable that the device meets these requirements:

A chromium-molybdenum or titanium frame. On the road you will have to spend a lot of time in the saddle, a long ride on these frames is not as tiring as on a rigid aluminum. And carbon frames are expensive, and it is not recommended to load them.
The handlebars should allow a variety of hand positions. Low landing – not the best choice, will quickly get tired hands.
For a long trip you need a luggage carrier. It is important that it can support the weight of the backpack. Trunk that is attached just under the saddle is a bad choice, there should be three points of support.
A fork with a locking function. On asphalt this will add speed, and when climbing an elevation you don’t have to expend your strength to sway. Spring-elastomer forks are virtually maintenance-free, so they are suitable for hiking.
Wheels should be sturdy. Do not put racing tires, they are easily damaged. Optimal level hubs are Shimano Deore LX to Deore XT. Rims choose a stronger than average level. In addition, the key to reliability – quality spokes. They will provide the necessary strength and stiffness wheel.
Disc brakes have advantages in terms of efficiency. But the big disadvantage is that with them you can not install a rack. Repairability of disc brakes with a hydraulic drive is lower than with a mechanical one. Rim brakes are better not to use when traveling on muddy terrain, dirt will be hammered into the design and block the wheel.
Transmission equipment choose not the entry level. But a high level is also unlikely to be needed. The optimal level of drive – Shimano Alivio Deore LX.
Pedals are better to have a contact. On long rides, they not only reduce the likelihood of feet slipping, but also increase the efficiency of pedaling. It will be important to buy universal cycling shoes. As a last resort, buy pedals with tuklips, although they are not as comfortable, but fit any shoe.

When buying a new bike is not possible, upgrade your existing bike. For example, if the trip is planned on good roads, and you have a mountain model, then change the tires from dirt to narrower. If the trip will be over mountainous terrain, and the bike has a small gear range, then change the cassette to one with a larger range of star sizes. This way you will significantly reduce your power consumption on climbs. Replacing the brake pads and adjusting the derailleur is a matter of five minutes, but the effect is noticeable immediately. These upgrades do not need a large monetary investment, but will make the trip easier and more pleasant.

What you need to take with you on a bike trip

If you are going on a bike trip for the first time, you will be surprised by the number of things: goggles, reflectors, bags, flashlights, flasks, but let’s talk about everything in order.

On the trip you will need:

Documents and money.
Phone, charger, and Power Bank.
Sunglasses and cream.
A set of dishes (cup, plate) and utensils (spoon, fork).
Hygiene products in the smallest containers.
First aid kit.
Insect repellents.
Garbage bags.
Flask for water.

Bicycle kit:

Camera repair kit and spare tubes.
Hexes.
Cable with lock.
Pump.
Replacement tires.
Bicycle lights and reflectors.
Multi-tools.
Fitting blades.
Chain lubricant, chain lubricant tools and spare chain.
Spoke wrench.

Outfit

Of travel gear it makes sense to take these things:

Tent.
A sleeping bag.
Rolling blanket.
Inflatable pillow.
A gas burner and lighter.
Matches.
Chainsaw and axe.
Kettle and ladle.
Scissors.
Rope.

Clothes

Choose your clothing seriously. On the trip should be provided: ventilation, moisture removal, protection from the cold. The best choice is a cycling outfit. If you do not see the point in buying cycling gear for infrequent trips, then take similar items for hiking.

Raincoat.
Windbreaker.
Thermal underwear.
Warm socks.
Shoes with hard soles.
Cycling gloves.
Swimsuit.
Helmet.
Bicycle shorts with a special insert.

Nutrition

Nutrition can be compared to filling up your car. A lot of calories are burned while driving and it is important to replenish in time.

For breakfast, eat slow carbohydrates, such as porridge. Add stew, cheese, nuts or honey to the porridge. After eating, give your body time to digest and hit the road in half an hour. Make breakfast your densest meal.

Snack on fast carbs every 10-15 km. A banana, dried fruit or an energy bar will do.

Do not overeat at lunch in order not to overload the stomach and not to suffer from sleepiness. Immediately after meals do not rush on the road, let the food assimilate.

For dinner, eat protein with carbohydrates, such as cottage cheese with fruit, meat with vegetables, porridge with canned fish.

The cyclist should drink water often and a little at a time. It is necessary to drink even when you do not feel like it. Take a couple of sips every 5 km.

Listen to your body, it will tell you what you need.

Safety precautions

Cycling is not only very interesting, but also traumatic. To all be well, follow these rules:

Check the technical condition of the bike before the ride.
Choose the right clothes for cycling. First, it should be bright and with reflective inserts, and secondly, it should fit your body well so as not to get anywhere and not get caught.
Be sure to use a helmet.
Your bike should have a light on it so that you can see well at night.
Don’t forget to take a first aid kit from home.

Conclusion

Biking is an exciting way to explore the world and yourself. The pros of such travels are many:

Inexpensive. It’s a budget-friendly way to get from one place to another.
Safe. The risk of getting into an accident on an auto is much higher than on a bike.
Healthy. Cycling is a way to lose weight, strengthen muscles and increase endurance.
Adventure. When traveling by bicycle, it is not clear where you will get to, where you will spend the night, etc.

Do not be afraid of cycling and have fun during the ride!

Travel

Things To Do In Western Sydney On a Budget

Published

6 days ago

June 4, 2023

Saykat

Covering such a vast area of Greater Sydney, the Western Suburbs offers both visitors and locals alike so many things to see and do. But what about people on a budget that still want to get out and about or be entertained? What are some good options that won’t break the bank?

Let’s take a look.

A Picnic in the Park

One thing Western Sydney is certainly not short of is parks and nature reserves. Here’s a quick list of just some of the parks in the region:

Western Sydney Parklands
Plough and Harrow
Rookwood Cemetery
Parramatta Park
Silverwater Park
John Curtin Reserve
And many others…

With so many parks and nature reserves to explore, you could spend the day just wandering some of these parks, taking a break to enjoy a picnic lunch under the shade of some trees or by the edge of a lake or the Parramatta River. It’s a relaxing way to spend the day and something that’s sure to leave you feeling revitalised.

Kayak the Local Waterways

If you have your own kayak, you’re ready to go but if not, there are a number of places in Western Sydney and along the Parramatta River where you can hire kayaks.

Once again, being out on the serenity of the water is an awesome way to unwind and forget all about the cares of the world. Kayaking is also fantastic exercise and gives you a chance to explore inlets and waterways that may not be easily accessible on foot or by vehicle.

Immerse yourself in nature and feast your eyes on the local birds and wildlife that inhabit the waterways and wetlands. Once again, you could even pack a picnic breakfast or lunch for your aquatic adventure.

Be Entertained At a Social Club

If you’re looking for a social club in Sydney, then you’ll discover some great choices out west. Whether it’s a Lidcombe club or another social club in Western Sydney, the cool thing about these venues is they cater to everyone and food and drinks are sold at very affordable prices.

A quality social and entertainment club will offer a variety of dining options, as well as a number of bars and venues where you can enjoy your favourite beverages and socialise with your friends. Often, there will be live entertainment on weekend evenings, as well as other activities such as bingo, raffles and more.

If you want to socialise on a budget, then a social and entertainment club is the place to go.

Stroll the Night Markets

Night markets are held in a number of locations throughout Western Sydney, including a popular night market in Blacktown. You don’t have to spend a lot of money while strolling leisurely through the stalls. Instead, you could simply occupy yourself by taking in all the interesting crafts and knick-knacks that you often don’t see in the stores in the malls.

There will be plenty of vendors serving food, drinks and snacks, so you could grab a cheap bite to eat while exploring and window shopping.

Riverside Theatres Parramatta

Perched right on the banks of the Parramatta River are the Riverside Theatres. Here you can catch a musical, a dance performance, a comedy spectacular and more. Tickets are not expensive and shows are taking place most of the time.

If you don’t want to take in a show, it’s fun just to wander around the area and it’s certainly a beautiful part of the west.

People Watch from a Cafe

Another thing Western Sydney is not short of is cafes. You’ll find trendy cafes in just about every suburb, including Lidcombe and Parramatta. While nursing your favourite hot or cold beverage, you could simply kill a few hours people watching. Everyone is different, so people watching can certainly provide some interesting spectacles.

If you don’t feel like drinking coffee and want something a little more robust, then there are also plenty of cool little bars in the Western Suburbs that you could people watch from.

The Wrap

There is so much to see and do in Sydney’s West and there are loads of opportunities to have fun and explore on a budget. This article has provided just a few ideas to get you started.

Travel

Enjoy Your Next Event in Style with Oakville Party Bus

Published

1 month ago

April 30, 2023

Saykat

Are you looking for a unique way to celebrate your next event or occasion? Look no further than Oakville Party Bus! Whether you’re planning a birthday party, wedding, or corporate event, and our party buses are the perfect way to add some excitement and luxury to your special occasion.

Our fleet of party buses features a variety of sizes and styles to fit any group, from a small gathering to a large crowd. Our buses are fully equipped with the latest amenities, including plush seating, sound systems, TVs, and even a bar. You and your guests can sit back, relax, and enjoy the ride in style.

One of the biggest advantages of renting a party bus is the convenience. You don’t have to worry about transportation or logistics because our experienced drivers will take care of everything for you. They know the area and can navigate through traffic, so you can sit back and enjoy the ride without any stress or hassle.

Our party buses are also a safe and reliable transportation option. Our vehicles are regularly maintained and inspected to ensure they are in top condition, and our drivers are fully licensed and trained professionals. You can trust us to get you to your destination safely and on time.

One of the best things about renting a party bus is the flexibility it provides. You can customize your itinerary and choose your own route, stops, and destinations. Whether you want to tour the city, visit local attractions, or simply drive around and enjoy the scenery, the choice is yours.

Oakville Party Bus is perfect for any occasion, from birthdays to weddings to corporate events. Here are just a few of the events that we can help you celebrate in style:

Birthdays: Make your next birthday unforgettable with a party bus rental. You and your guests can celebrate in style as you cruise around town, dance to your favorite music, and enjoy the company of your friends and family.

Weddings: A party bus is the perfect way to transport your wedding party in style. Our buses are spacious enough to accommodate large groups and can provide a comfortable and luxurious ride for your special day.

Corporate Events: Impress your clients and colleagues with a party bus rental for your next corporate event. Our buses provide a comfortable and luxurious environment for business meetings, team building events, and company parties.

Concerts and Sporting Events: Avoid the hassle of parking and traffic and let us take you to your next concert or sporting event. Our drivers know the area and can navigate through traffic to get you to the venue on time.

Bachelor and Bachelorette Parties: A party bus rental is the perfect way to celebrate your last night of freedom. You and your friends can party in style as you cruise around town and enjoy the company of your closest friends.

No matter what event or occasion you’re celebrating, Oakville Party Bus can help you make it unforgettable. Contact us today to learn more about our fleet and rental options. We look forward to helping you create lasting memories with your friends and family.

Travel

Things to Do in Tasmania

Published

5 months ago

January 9, 2023

Saykat

Some Exciting Things to Do in Tasmania

Tasmania is an incredibly beautiful and diverse destination, with a range of unique experiences for visitors. Whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation, there’s something to keep everyone entertained in Tasmania. Here are some of the best things to do in Tasmania:

Visit Cradle Mountain National Park – Home to some of Australia’s wildest and most rugged terrain, this park is one of the best places to explore Tasmania’s natural beauty. Hike through ancient rainforest trails or take a scenic drive around Dove Lake.

Explore the Tasmanian Wilderness – From its stunning beaches to its beautiful mountain peaks, Tasmania’s wilderness offers some of Australia’s most remarkable landscapes. Hike through the rainforests, take a tour of historic sites and experience the unique wildlife that can’t be found anywhere else in the world.

Visit Freycinet National Park – Explore Australia’s oldest and largest national park, home to some of its most spectacular scenery and beautiful beaches. Check out the incredible views from Wineglass Bay Lookout, take a scenic walk through the park, and take in the sights of breathtaking ocean vistas.

Experience Tasmanian Culture – Taste some of Tasmania’s unique food and wine offerings, learn about its history at one of the many museums or visit a local art gallery to admire local works of art.

Indulge in Outdoor Adventures – Spend the day kayaking, fishing, horseback riding, hiking or cycling through Tasmania’s lush forest and stunning landscapes. You can also take a boat ride to explore the island or take a scenic railway journey for some breathtaking views of the countryside.

Do Mount Wellington – Take a cable car ride to the peak of Mount Wellington, where you can soak in the views and marvel at the forests, rivers, and lakes below. Or if you’re feeling adventurous, take a challenging hike up to the summit instead.

Visit Port Arthur – Step back in time with a visit to the historic penal settlement of Port Arthur. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to some spectacular sights, including the iconic Martin’s Bay and Isle of the Dead as well as plenty of fascinating stories to uncover.

Get Wet at the Tasmanian Waterfall Circuit – Take a drive around Tasmania’s waterfall circuit and discover some of the state’s most spectacular cascades. Highlights include Russell Falls, Nelson Falls, and Lady Barron Falls.

Have a Helicopter Tour

Why not take in the breathtaking sights of Tasmania from a bird’s eye view? A helicopter tour is an unforgettable experience and perfect for those looking to really appreciate the beauty of the island state. With many Tasmanian Air Tours by Helicopter, you can choose a scenic flight path and take in the sights.

Just some of the benefits of a helicopter tour include a brilliant birds-eye view of the surrounding area, the chance to spot wildlife, and a memorable experience. If you’re like most people, you will remember a helicopter tour of Tasmania for years to come. In a helicopter tour, you’re likely to see some of Tasmania’s stunning natural attractions, such as Cradle Mountain, Wineglass Bay, and the Gordon River. On longer tours, you can also explore further afield and see places such as the Tarkine wilderness, Maria Island, and Mount Wellington.

For another unique experience in Tasmania, consider taking a kayak or canoe tour. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely paddle down the Derwent River, an overnight camping trip on the Franklin River, or an adrenaline-filled white water adventure down the Franklin, a guided tour is a great way to explore Tasmania’s many waterways and coasts.