UPDATED January 6, 2026 BY Guest Author IN South American Epic no comments Aftermath: Ripples in Time The 2024 South American Cycling ExpeditionTom Perlmutter recently completed the 2025 Silk Route Cycling Expedition. He looks back at his previous trans-continental experience on the 2024 South American Epic Cycling Expedition.Rainy day crossing the Cauca River, ColombiaIt was downhill to Ushuaia at the southern tip of South America, gateway to Antarctica and the final destination of our near six-month cycling odyssey down the length of the continent up and down its Andean ribcage. It had rained the night before, our last one camping, but by then we were used to the elements from the raging heat of the Colombian lowlands to the chilly blasts of the Bolivian Altiplano, the worlds most extensive high plateau (averaging about 4,000 meters) outside of Tibet. We were weatherbeaten, blistered and aching in parts of the body we hardly knew existed and utterly exhilarated.A year has passed since that day that capped our incredible adventure. Great undertakings do not end at their outward conclusion; they send out ripples that undulate through our lives, sometimes overtly, more often unconsciously. An inner bell tolls that reminds us that this we have done. There is an affirmation that strengthens us in whatever else we do.I took the opportunity of this first anniversary to speak to a number of my fellow riders to share stories and see what that trek has meant for them.Mike CrumMike C. is a bluff teddy bear of a man in his early sixties, an organic kiwi fruit farmer from New Zealand, always ready with a smile and an encouraging word. He spoke about doing the trip to push boundaries, physical and mental. He had, perhaps, more of a challenge than most of us. It was only four weeks before we set off from Cartagena that he got the medical okay to go ahead with the trip. He was in recovery from a mini-stroke.As he flew by me on that final day I smiled thinking of what I had learned from him. He had embarked on his cycling adventures in a change period of his life. He was moving into retirement with a burning desire to expand his horizons. South America gave him that. I was getting a view about life; it opened up possibilities. I knew he was right.Mark K. at 27 was the youngest of our riders. An Egyptian he divides his time between the family home in Cairo and his work and studies in San Francisco (he is a graduate student in engineering at Stanford). Mark is a questioner probing at himself and his environment. His face is often stamped with a quizzical expression which just as often gives way to a broad grin as one struck by a sudden moment of enlightenment. His most distinctive feature is his shock of curly black hair, as if hes just poked his finger into a light socket.Tom and Mark, Paracas, Pacific coast, PeruMark was new to long-distance cycling. The longest hed ridden before was 90 kms and never on an overnight trip. He thinks about what South America meant; it fills him with gratitude. It made me more resilient, he says. I developed an endurance muscle for all walks of his life. Because of South America, he says, I can have big goals and see how to do it.At the other end of the spectrum is Marie-Jose V. (M-J as we all called her). In her early sixties she is trim, hardy and perennially buoyant. She is an athlete with significant accomplishments under her belt: five major summits of 5,500+ meters including Kilimanjaro (highest mountain in Africa at 5,895 m) and Aconcagua (highest mountain in the Americas at 6,967 m); skiing to the North Pole with an all women team; and quite a few cycling expeditions. Even so she was apprehensive because she had never done such a long trek. She thought it might be hard to go day after day, month after month. She surprised herself. It was all so beautiful. I was in better shape than I thought. No matter how hard a day was, how tired I was coming into camp, the next morning I was ready to go. I never wanted to take a day off.M-JDiversity was a word that kept cropping up. The sheer variety of landscapes, cultures and people astonished and delighted us all.Ellen L. is a sturdy, fearless GP whose no-nonsense attitude is belied by her great warmth and a remarkable openness to the world about her. Dutch born and bred she has worked most of her life in Cornwall, England. Her daily regime involves cycling 50 kms to work and back on the steep Cornish hills regardless of weather conditions. She has backpacked across the Caucuses on her own and cycled in various parts of the world, again often on her own.EllenThe challenges of long hard days and some extreme conditions were dwarfed by the great exuberance of South American life. The diversity, to her was astounding: the lush tropical conditions of Colombia; the stark beauty of the Tatocoa desert; the immensity of the Bolivian Salt Flats, the tempting vineyards of Argentina, the exquisite beauty of Patagonia and on it went. At every turn there was a gasp-inducing moment of amazement.Tom in Tatacoa, ColombiaFor Paul L., an experienced cyclist from British Columbia, on his first extended tour and his first group tour, the wide range of cultures and people spoke to him as someone whose work as an arbitrator, often with First Nations, developed in him a cultural sensitivity.PaulOn our rest day in Bogota, cycling in with hundreds of locals on car-free Ciclova day, we mingled in the main square with a joyous crowd clad in yellow t-shirts in honour of the Colombian national soccer team who were about to face off Argentina in the final game of the Copa Amrica. It was only the third time in the 48 years of the Copa that Colombia had made it to the finals. Even a heart-rending 1-0 loss in overtime could not dampen the enthusiasm and generosity of the people who embraced our participation in their festivity.Ciclovia in BogotaIn the high Andes of Bolivia we learned to respect the aversion of locals, the bowler hatted women and juyuna (poncho) sporting men, to cameras. A short, stout shepherd had come to talk to us, curious about these lycra-wrapped tourists on bikes. The exchange was warm and reciprocal until one of our group asked if she could take a photo of him. The very mention of a photograph sent him flying off like greased lightning. It was clear that they had had too many encounters in the past where the question was only a prelude to the act. We kept our phones tucked away.Ayacucho village, High AndesFrom a guide on Lake Titicaca riding on dragon-shaped boats to the floating islands we learned about the complex history of the Aymara and Quechua peoples whose ancestors, the Incas ruled this land from Ecuador in the north as far south as Chile and Argentina.Lake TiticacaSo it went. Shifting landscapes, shifting cultures, shifting cuisines. Arepas (corn cakes), aborrajados (fried sweet plantain with cheese), beef and pork empanadas, the hundreds of varieties of quinoa, potatoes, and sweet potatoes, the abundance of fish and sea food along our campsites on the Pacific coast, the richness of the fruit, far greater than anything we see in North America or Europe with guanaban, dragon fruit, pepino, papaya, passionfruit, cherimoya, granadilla and tamarillo to name only a few.Roadside produce stall, La Pintada, ColombiaFor us there was always someone with whom to share a new delight. We were a group but we didnt travel as a pack. Everyone went their own pace. Ride alone if you wished or team up with riders compatible with your pacing and how much you wished to stop on route. For some a group ride was a new experience.Kenny S. from Inverness, Scotland doesnt see himself as a particularly outgoing person. But he appreciated how on this trip meeting new people changes aspects of your life. As he went on he made an effort to cycle at least for a day or half-day with everybody in the group.Kenny (seated)M-J remembers a tough day. It was raining and very cold with temperatures hovering just above freezing. It was one of the very few days I thought of abandoning the ride. Then Ellen stopped and gave me a down vest. Thanks to her I was able to keep going.Paul, on his first group ride, says he had to work through issues because I found it hard at first to be in a group. As time went on that changed. Riding with others added a whole, unexpected dimension to the experience, opening up new vistas. In that time he made new good friends among the unlikely few who at the drop of a hat will head off into a great unknown for months at a time.Kenny is a long-time member of a cycling club back home. He says that even his cycling friends, ardent about getting out on the road, cant get their heads around what Im doing. They think it great if they can get a week off to go cycling.Mark recalls his family thinking him crazy. But they knew I would do crazy things.Climbing to Quito, EcuadorI have very active cyclist friends who tell me that there is nothing in what I have described that would induce them to sit on a bike for hours at a time, day after day and face some of the challenging conditions that inevitably surface.There was another advantage for us to travel with TDA. Paul who had long experience of solo cycling expeditions of several weeks duration knows what it is like to organize the complex logistics of such trips. He says, I was amazed at the wonderful job TDA did in logistical support.Tried and true athlete M-J notes, I wouldnt go on a trip like this on my own. Crossing a continent through large swathes of uncharted and remote territory is very demanding. She appreciated the sense of safety provided by the TDA support. So much so that she has signed for multiple more TDA journeys.Ellen agrees. Most of the cycling Ive done has been on my own. I couldnt have done this one in that way.At the end of the day, regardless of the support from TDA or fellow riders, we face the road on our own. Each morning we saddle up not knowing what the day will bring. The kilometres stretch ahead of us; our feet press down on the pedals and off we go.Paracas National Reserve, PeruA journey across space, time into unknown lands and the unknown of ourselves. As we posed for photos in Ushuaia, mission accomplished, I think we all realized that something wondrous had happened. On mounting our bikes in Cartagena to cross South America we had tumbled into Alices rabbit hole through to a wonderland of mystery, magic and enchantment. We had emerged at the other end different, larger, trailing clouds of glory that would forever be a part of us.RELATEDTOURSouth American Epic This challenging expedition offers you the best opportunity to explore the vastness and diversity of South America by bike. In keeping with the TDA... Related Posts:Leave a Comment for "Aftermath: Ripples in Time The 2024 South American Cycling Expedition" Cancel reply

UPDATED January 5, 2026 BY The TDA Team IN Company no comments South American Epic Cycling Expedition Documentary Film Screening in TorontoWhen: January 22, 2026 @ 7pmWhere: Blacksmith Cycle,1A Givins Street,Toronto, ON M6J 2X5What: Because its There A story of a group of strangers crossing South America by bicycle a 40 minute documentary followed by a Q&A with two of the 2024 cyclists featured in the film, American Steve Johnson and Canadian Tom Perlmutter.Please join us on January 22nd for the first Toronto screening of Because its There A story of a group of strangers crossing South America by bicycle. This visually rich and thought provoking documentary follows the 2024 South American Epic a 6-month cycling expedition stretching from Colombia to Patagonia run by our team here at TDA Global Cycling. What compels a group of strangers to cross an entire continent by bicycle? This film tries to answer that question.Led by unflappable tour leader, Carolina, and her resourceful crew, the cyclists pedal across vast salt flats, mountain passes, wind-blasted deserts, and remote river valleys. Along the way, they confront mechanical failures, political protests, wild weather and personal doubts but they also experience a shared joy that cant be measured in distance travelled.Through candid interviews, moments of adversity and scenes of breathtaking beauty, the film captures more than just a journey it reveals the formation of a tight-knit community. This is not just a film about cycling. Its about choosing discomfort, embracing challenge and discovering meaning in movement together. Pictured above Steve (left) celebrating in Patagonia and Tom (right) fixing a flat in ChileAt the end of the screening, we are fortunate to have two of the characters from the film Tom Perlmutter, and Steve Johnson in attendance to answer your questions about their cycling adventure across South America.Related Posts:Leave a Comment for "South American Epic Cycling Expedition Documentary Film Screening in Toronto" Cancel reply

UPDATED January 2, 2026 BY Guest Author IN Tea Route no comments Around The World On A Bike: Eves StoryAmerican cyclist Eve Holland has participated in 9 TDA Global Cycling tours beginning in 2016 on the Trans-Oceania. In 2026, she will add the Tea Route Cycling Tour to that impressive list.On the 2024 Pub RideThere is just nothing else like seeing and experiencing a new place on a bicycle. I think I was born to travel. In 1947, my mother boarded an airplane and flew to West Point so I could be born where she and my Dad had been married the previous year. My father was in the Army for the next 20 years and during that time we moved almost every one or two years. We had the good fortune to spend 3 years moving around Germany and, even at 10, I was aware of how fortunate I was to be experiencing that country on a day-to-day basis. We went to Brussels for the 1958 Worlds Fair, and had an amazing road trip through Italy to Rome. In those days, there were still oxcarts on the road!When I got married at 20, my husband went into the Air Force for 2 years and we moved each year. When he was done, we moved to Columbus, Ohio to establish his dental practice. I gave up my Military ID and was shocked to realize I would no longer be identified as an Army brat or an Air Force wife! Babies, work, and all the trials and tribulations of life impacted my travel, except for short vacations to the beach or elsewhere.Eventually I met my wonderful husband Greg, who also has a travel bug. Id only known him for 6 weeks when I found out I had to take a business trip to Nice, France, so I called him up and asked if he had a passport. His answer? Where are we going? I knew right then he was the man for me! Together we discovered the joys of traveling by bicycle, first on our tandem, then on singles. We were still working so could only do short trips. We took a week-long ride in Ohio every June and cycled from Pittsburgh to Washington, DC, on the GAP and C&O Canal trails.On the Dempster HighwayOur first longer cycle trip was from Vancouver to Inuvik, with Cycle Canada. We bought our singles for this trip, not sure if our relationship would survive the Dempster Highway on a tandem! Plus, being the captain on 450 miles of dirt road would have been pretty stressful for Greg. On that trip, we met some TDA alumni who had just returned from the Tour dAfrique Cycling Expedition. That was our introduction to TDA. Weve been hooked ever since.A street scene in India on the Hippie Trail. Youd never be able to get this close if you were in a car.We will be riding the Tea Route (our 10th TDA trip) in January, 2026 and while filling out the visa application, we had to list all the countries weve visited in the last 10 years. Turns out that number is 41! And the vast majority of this travel has been on a bicycle with TDA. Although we havent loved every minute of every ride, we have really loved every ride. There is just nothing else like seeing and experiencing a new place on a bicycle.This summer we made the decision that the Tea Route would be our last ride with TDA and we would start doing easier travel. Recently I was looking at our flights to and from this trip and realized we would encircle the globe. We leave from Phoenix and travel east to NYC and on to India, then on the return we travel from Sri Lanka to Seattle to Phoenix. What a fitting way to end all the fabulous travel we have been so fortunate to experience!Of course, TDA keeps coming up with new rides. The Plum Ride looks really nice. Island Hopping Japan would let us ride on that really cool cycle path between islands, although there would be an awful lot of climbing. What about the Amber Route that could be fun . . .RELATEDTOURTea Route Tea. It wasnt until the British arrived that this wild plant was turned into a commercial crop both in India and in Sri Lanka, creating those... Related Posts:Leave a Comment for "Around The World On A Bike: Eves Story" Cancel reply

UPDATED December 31, 2025 BY Guest Author IN Golden Buddha Ride no comments Rider Reflections From Laos: Challenging & RewardingPaige White was the Content Creator on the 2025 Golden Buddha Ride Cycling Adventure.Laos was a highlight for the riders on the 2025 Golden Buddha Ride. Heres what they had to say about their experiences in the country.I was excited and slightly nervous about cycling in Laos. I knew that it would be challenging not just because of the cycling routes, but also perhaps because of the accommodations and food. I should have just been excited. We were so well looked after by the staff at TDA. I appreciate the difficulties and thought involved, and although the food wasnt always marvellous, and the beds werent always comfortable, and it was way better than I expected. People in Laos were lovely. I felt perfectly safe cycling alone and people seemed to love interacting with us, the crazy bunch of cycling tourists. We had many opportunities to see a fleeting glance that shows the local way of life while we passed through on our bikes, especially in the more remote areas.My favourite section of cycling was the right after Ban Xiangtan. There was a gradual climb on dirts roads that passed through small villages and stunning scenery. Although Vientiane wasnt my favourite, Ill always remember it as this was where we joined the tour and our first introduction to Laos. In Vientianes COPE Museum (that covers the history of unexploded ordnance in Laos) I bought a book The Coroners Lunch by Colin Cotterell. I would thoroughly recommend it as a well written and delightful read that will bring back memories of Laos capital city. Thankfully I have many photos to remind me of a very special trip. Vicky, UKChris passing a gas station in LaosHighlights from Laos: Crossing the border, down the apocalyptic road for 10 kilometres First rest stop with the Mekong, that was so wide. It was surprising that Thailand was just across the water. Cycling through villages with kids who were so excited and waving to see us. CAKE in Luang Prabang Wonderful pressure point massage without oil $5!!! The last 3 days of insane climbing in Laos My overwhelming memory of Laos will be the challenging roads, and riverbeds corrugated with big rocks and deep potholes all over. There were trucks with diesel fumes and big clouds of dust to to fight through all in the name of fun. Chris, USAPeter on the road in LaosYou never know what to expect in a remote and little visited country like Laos. Thats why we go! As it turns out, Laos was full of surprises. From the smallest child to the oldest women on the roadside, everyone was welcoming. People live very different lives in Laos from place to place including the tourist hot spot of Vang Vieng, Luang Prabang, and all of the isolated villages in between. The terrain was just as varied and held many challenges. There were steep climbs that make the French Alps that I know so well back at home feel envious. Then there were also paved roads to savour in between the many bone shattering dirt roads. In the end I left feeling Laos though poor and sad in some ways. It also feels like a place that has managed to avoid being co-opted by the culture of its colonial (French) occupier or its political inspirations. We have to hope it continues to develop in its own way, at its own pace, and on its own terms. We shall see! Peter, FranceVinnie smiling in LaosI went for my first massage in Laos today- after 5 days and 500+ kms of riding. Incredible. I was confused initially and not sure if I was being attacked or not. Once I realized that the full blown walking on your body was quite normal, I relaxed (alongside the other 5 people all prone on a mat on the floor) and leaned in to the experience: Manipulation and contortion that I have not seen since I was in my 20s. Beating and pummelling my muscles which has me sure I have atoned for all past sins. Aided stretching which has me at least 2 inches taller All of this for an hour and the price of $12.17 (including tip). I think its fair to say that tomorrows 151 kms into Vientiane will now be a breeze.- Vinnie, New ZealandMarcy getting ready to ride in LaosThere were many memorable experiences in Laos-here is my favourite: The roads were very challenging east of the Mekong, and required more energy to ride with constant pothole awareness. This was mentally and physically very difficult- type 2 fun! Crossing Mekong and our final 4 days from Hongsa was a game changer for me. The unbelievable scenery made the huge climbs worthwhile. My favourite day was our last full day in Laos: Stage 27- travelling from Xianghon to Huay Xia It was a chilly 6 degree C start in the morning with fog coverage- rough roads with dirt and a wish I had bike suspension conditions. By 8:30 the sun was up and fog cleared. I will never forget the breathtaking morning fog at the start of our day.We initially rode through a village with small fires and locals gatherings outside of their homes. There were families visiting and breakfast being prepared. Kids were bundled up, many in warm Halloween costumes. Little dinosaurs, elephants and tigers running around all trying to stay warm. The off road experience, spanning 38 km, was memorable for many reasons. We saw the rubber trees (with latex veins) and met the local villagers harvesting the latex. The locals were gracious and let get a closer look, and snap some photos. The landscape was breathtaking. We were surrounded by rainforests and rolling hills. During the ride we encountered pigs, cows and lots of chickens. Even though the off road trail was challenging I would consider it a gift because it was free from cars and extremely peaceful. The quietness of the day, new terrain that pushed my physical strength, the memory of the families trying to stay warm, as the novelty of the rubber trees was so memorable. The shift from he lost his mind potholes and dust that followed the Vietnam to Laos border crossing to the serenity of the off- road day is a memory that I will have for a long time. Marcy, CanadaRelated Posts:Leave a Comment for "Rider Reflections From Laos: Challenging & Rewarding" Cancel reply

UPDATED December 29, 2025 BY Michael Coo IN Company, Viva Italia no comments Tutte Le Strade Portano A Roma: The 2026 Viva ItaliaIt is likely that when the phrase All roads lead to Romewas first coined in the 12th century, they were not thinking a cycling tour 900 years later but, hey, to use another common expression, If the shoe fits. Our Viva Italia Cycling Tour, a 2625 km exploration of mainland Italy, Corsica, Sardinia & Sicily that begins and ends in the Eternal City, first ran in 2019 and then again in 2022 and 2024. In all 3 cases, the ride sold out and we would not be surprised to see a repeat for 2026.Highlights include Vatican City, the Uffizi Gallery in Florence, stunning Corsican beaches, remote hilltop villages in Sardinia, Mount Etna, the Amalfi Coast, Pompeii and the Colosseum in Rome. If you still need a reason to join us in 2026, please check out the following posts.Viva Italia! Every Day Was A Wonderful Adventure!Every day was a wonderful adventure riding through Italy and Corsica , with the rich history, art, culture, architecture and buildings, scenery and natural beauty, magnificent coastline, and interest around every corner , experiencing this with a great group of people from all around the world. Maurice Efron (Australia) (Read more)Each day of the tour has left a distinct impression, but Corsica? Corsica is something else entirely. (Read more)Florence I Wont Have Time, Wont Have TimeFlorence is overwhelming, to say the least. The number of art galleries, palaces, museums, piazzas, churches, places of interest seem endless. (Read more)Cycling Italy: A Vicarious Viva Italia Experience in 2 Parts [VIDEO]What stands out to me about the Viva Italia videos is the orange glow that permeates these scenes. Italy is blessed with some incredible natural and man-made scenery towns clustered along hillsides, sunsets and sunrises that seem to hit you differently. (Read more)Reflections On The 2022 Viva ItaliaWe saw magnificent art and glorious architecture, mind boggling museums and out of this world Duomos (cathedrals), azure bays and sandy beaches, orchards of olives and fields of tomatoes, rugged mountains and green valleys, vistas that take your breath away and towns that seems about to slide into the sea. (Read more)RELATEDTOURViva Italia It has been said that All roads lead to Rome and the Viva Italia cycling tour is simply more proof that this may indeed be the case... Related Posts:Leave a Comment for "Tutte Le Strade Portano A Roma: The 2026 Viva Italia" Cancel reply

UPDATED December 27, 2025 BY The TDA Team IN Company no comments Top 10 TDA Blogs From 2025Happy Holidays! Here are the 10 blogs that drew the most interest from you, our loyal readers1 The Joy Of Bicycle Gearing: Everything You Need To KnowWho knew that bicycle gearing could be so fascinating!? Our resident bike expert, Micah Markson, took a deep dive into the world of chainrings, cassettes and gear ratios.I wish I had an easier gear! Many a TDA cyclist (Read more)2 The 2026 South American Epic Cycling ExpeditionAs the start of the 2026 South American Epic Cycling Expedition drew ever closer, we took a look at some of the highlights in each of the 6 countries along the 13,255 km route.Remote, isolated, and challenging. The famous border crossing from Villa OHiggins to El Chalten is one of fabled myth in the world of South American cycle touring. (Read more)Nothing lasts foreverand that goes for our tours as well. Changes in climate, security, logistics and many other factors can sometimes lead to the demise of some of our cycling adventures. Here are some that fell by the waysideWill any of them return in the future? Well, as the old saying goes, Never say never. (Read more)4 Algeria & Tunisia: Impressions Of Cycling Through North AfricaAll of us were nervously excited to see how our inaugural cycling journey through the North African countries of Algeria & Tunisia would go as little information about cycle touring in the region was available.Algeria and Tunisia offered not only stunning landscapes and roads but also a chance to engage with local people and cultures in an incredibly genuine way. (Read more)5 Because Its There A Film About A Group Of Strangers Crossing South America By BikeOn the 2024 South American Epic Cycling Expedition, Content Creators Mats Fredrix and Benjamin Levin, worked to come up with video footage that would answer the question of why a group of strangers from around the world had committed to spending nearly 6 months together, pedalling across a continent.All my friends think its a bit crazy. (Read more)6 E-bikes On TDA Tours Riding The Olive Route On An E-bikeLove them or not, e-bikes are certainly everywhere these days, even on some TDA tours. Restrictions on flying with e-bike batteries are challenging but a few riders on the Olive Route came up with some ingenious solutions.The e-bike has enabled me to keep doing the type of riding that I love, and it is wonderful that TDA have made provision for e-bikes on some of their tours. (Read more)7 Packing Your Bike For A TDA Tour: My First Attempt At Adulting As A CyclistDo you wake up in a cold sweat when you think about packing your bike for your next flight? You are not alone. Our Office Manager, Olha, breaks the process down into 6 easy steps.Its one of those things that looks intimidating from the outside, but once youve done it, youll wonder why you ever worried. (Read more)8 The Bamboo Road: Not The Guidebook Version Of Southeast AsiaSoutheast Asia is more than just beaches, great food, sunshine and happy pizzas. The best way to be surprised, unexpectedly and often, is to pedal through the countries, slowly and immersively, open to all possibilities.It sneaks up on you at a roadside stall, a shrine glimpsed on a hill, or a festival you hadnt expected. (Read more)9 Old Friends, New Roads TDAs Incredible Cycling CommunityWhen Content Creator Benjamin Levin was working on the 2025 Olive Route, he was struck by just how many of the riders of the tour already new each other from previous TDA adventures.The essence of the journey is the same: cycling through spectacularly beautiful, culturally rich landscapes, alongside friends from all around the globe. (Read more)10 Sri Lanka & The Tea Route: A Personal PilgrimageAfter many thwarted attempts to visit the island previously known as Ceylon, TDA staffer Michael finally arrives to discover a hidden gem, a country almost perfectly designed to be explored on a bicycle.Did the country live up to the high expectations that I had created in my own mind? Yes, absolutely yes! (Read more)Related Posts:Leave a Comment for "Top 10 TDA Blogs From 2025" Cancel reply

UPDATED December 23, 2025 BY Olha Kurochkina IN Company no comments The Year 2025 Seen Through My Favourite FramesIf I had to sum up 2025 in one word, it would probably be, learning. Not the comfortable kind. The kind that comes from doing, deciding, rethinking, letting go and then doing it all again. These are my favourite photos from the 2025 tours. Not necessarily the best ones objectively but the ones that stayed with me. Each of them holds a story, a conclusion, or a quiet reminder of why we do what we do at TDA.Tour dAfriqueSetting up a bush camp in front of Mount Kilimanjaro, KenyaIf I were to pick just one photo of the year, this would be it. To me, it captures the essence of TDA perfectly: our truck, our camp, one of our signature tours and Mount Kilimanjaro, one of Africas undeniable highlights all wrapped into one frame, bathed in the soft light of the end of the day. Movement, simplicity, scale. This is what it feels like from the inside.Hippie TrailAndrew Schneck cruising through the Western GhatsThe legend himself Andy. A long-time TDA alumnus, and 2025 turned out to be his most productive year with us: three tours in one season, and even more ambitious plans for 2026 already ahead. Consistency, curiosity, commitment. Way to go, Andy!Road of EmpiresThe Algerian Road Horseshoe Neil and BobYou can always recognize Bob by the way he holds the handlebars. This was an amazing inaugural tour! Who would have thought that from the first idea in fall 2023 to riding through Algeria in spring 2025, wed get here revealing the countrys beauty in such a powerful way. Well, Ill tell you who would its TDA. Duh!Olive RouteAda climbing the Camino on the coastOne of the hardest choices this route is one of my absolute favourites, and also something Id love to ride myself someday. The Camino has been on my bucket list for years. Add wonderful Ada whom I was lucky to meet earlier on Viva Italia and my least favourite cycling activity ever: climbing. And yet watching someone else do it seemingly effortlessly is pure joy.Journey to the EastBrian cycling past Lake Shikotsu on the final dayJourney to the East has become one of those tours that doesnt need to prove anything anymore. Since its double launch in 2023, it quietly found its place especially for first-time TDA riders and every year it simply confirms that it belongs. Looking at this image, Im reminded that not everything has to be extreme or overwhelming to be meaningful. Some routes work because they give space to settle into the rhythm, to look around, to arrive without needing to conquer anything. And sometimes, thats exactly what people are looking for whether its their first TDA tour, or just the right moment in life.Magical Madagascar Instagram, TDA Global Cycling | Bike Tours in over 80 countries (@tdacycling)This year also taught us how to let go. As incredible as this route is and as excited as we were to run it the decision was made not to include Magical Madagascar in the upcoming calendars. Still, when I look at this photo, it feels bright and optimistic. Almost like a reminder: never say never. And yes it looks a bit like our logo, so Im keeping my hopes alive.Trans-EuropaTrans-Europa was hard to choose from. I joined the tour for the first section, met wonderful people, and was especially happy to reconnect with someone Id ridden with before. Because TDA is about people. And sometimes its not even about cycling. Sometimes you disembark, slow down, and simply let the beauty around you sink in. Thats what this Venice moment is about. But since this is my blog, and I dont actually have to be objectiveJenna, Jordy, Balazs, Masoud behind the camera, and last but definitely not least Gergo, our tour leader somewhere in the bag van, doing his job with peak professionalism and quiet elegance. Thank you, guys. Truly. And yes I already know Ill see some of you again in 2026 Trans- HimalayaThis tour brought some of the toughest lessons of the year. We were reminded that we live in a reality where things move fast sometimes too fast. Climate change is no longer abstract. Political situations shift rapidly. Decisions made far away can affect everything on the ground. We learned to keep our eyes open, to listen to different perspectives, and how crucial timely, honest communication really is. And as Henry once said to be on the angels side. My personal takeaway? Deep respect for the people I work with and the values we share. Tough decisions were made. Lessons learned. And we move on thoughtfully and respectfully.Silk Route Instagram, TDA Global Cycling | Bike Tours in over 80 countries (@tdacycling)Have I mentioned that I hate climbing? Its the hardest part of cycling for me. But this photo reminds me again that sometimes you simply have to push harder. And sometimes thats the only way to reach the place youre meant to be. Im linking an Instagram carousel here because it deserves your attention. (And while youre at it follow our Instagram if you dont already. Pretty please.)North American EpicSvend riding toward Monument ValleyThe more epic the tour, the harder it is to choose just one image. This road feels endless no beginning, no visible end. But we all know the truth: if you keep cycling, eventually it stays behind you. Always does.Cape to KiliKids gathering around the lunch truck in Malawi.Among all the breathtaking landscapes, this is the image Id keep. Because TDA is also about connection seeing beauty not only in nature, but in people. Engaging with locals. Listening. And through their stories, learning something about yourself.Island Hopping Japan Instagram, TDA Global Cycling | Bike Tours in over 80 countries (@tdacycling)This might be unfair but another life lesson: sometimes it doesnt have to be. This set of three Instagram videos was the first thing that came to mind when I thought about our inaugural Island Hopping Japan tour. So here it is.Golden Buddha RideFabrizio walking his bike in LaosFabrizio had to walk his bike on a steep climb through the mountains of Laos. And thats perfectly fine. You dont have to be perfect. I do it myself as long as I keep moving. And look at him: still smiling. Thats the plan for next year too, right? We keep rolling. Keep smiling. Keep enjoying the good moments no matter what. Lets do it together.Related Posts:Leave a Comment for "The Year 2025 Seen Through My Favourite Frames" Cancel reply

UPDATED December 17, 2025 BY The TDA Team IN Company no comments Staff Picks: Best Blogs Of 2025Here at TDA Global Cycling, we are blessed to work with so many talented, interesting, adventurous people, both in the Toronto office and out in the field. Their diverse backgrounds and outlooks provide us with a wide variety of views on our tours and on the world we live in.Here are our staff picks for best blogs of 2025:Ohla Kurochkina (Office Manager)Cycling In Stressful TimesTo my mind, a very honest reflection to whats happening in the modern world. And I also like Rudyard Kipling.Youll Never Be The Same: Reflections From The Baltic RoadThis blog takes a special place in my heart. I started drafting it the next day I arrived in Tallinn and finished it when I left from Vilnius, and it was my real path of transformation, dealing with my own scars and still open wounds, so writing this blog was my special way of healing and I sincerely love every single sentence of it.Miles MacDonald (Operations Manager)Tips & Tricks For Riding On DirtWere very lucky to work with so many talented staff people on our tours, and its wonderful when they can share some of their knowledge with our readers. Here, Tour dAfrique 2025 mechanic Lorenzo Bouttall shares his tips on riding on dirt.Arctic Spirit: A Journey Through The Wild NorthContent Creator Arjuna describes what was a truly Epic start to the North American Epic, in one of the most remote regions across all of TDAs tours.Shanny Hill (Marketing Manager)The Elephant In The States: Cycling Through America During Tense Times On The North American EpicOur American content creator Camille finds a new perspective while riding through her country at this moment in time. This journey through America has felt like a revelation; this territory we call the United States of America is a lot more nuanced, a lot quieter than a lot of us had known.'This is a small window into the enormous amount of work Miles put in that made the Road of Empires possible, a tour that we hope will bring more and more cycle tourists to north Africa in the future.Henry Gold (Founder)The Himalayan PuzzleA visceral description of what happened on the Trans Himalaya and challenges the crew faces.Oaxaca On Two Wheels: A Street-Art Ride Into Mexicos SoulI love street art. We come across it on many TDA tours and our Content Creator, Arjuna, captured the magic of it in this blog.Micah Markson (Tech Wizard)Choose Your Own Adventure The Morocco: Kingdom Of The West Cycling TourI so fondly remember the landscapes and rich culture of Morocco, and this blog captures it well.The Tour dAfrique Cycling Expedition: The Next 10 YearsWe live in an ever changing world and this post reminds us that despite whatever may change in the world, the desire to cycle across continents persists!Michael Coo (Customer Service Manager)Climate Change & Cycle TouringPoliticians may wish to avoid this topic, at their own peril, but as Founder Henry Gold points out, we should all try our best to reduce our impact on this precious little planet.'The Silk Route Cycling Expedition: A Cast Of CharactersIt may take a village to raise a child, but as Operations Manager Miles MacDonald writes, it also takes a cast of characters to run a cross-continental tour.Related Posts:Leave a Comment for "Staff Picks: Best Blogs Of 2025" Cancel reply

UPDATED December 15, 2025 BY The TDA Team IN Company, Island Hopping Japan no comments 2025 Island Hopping Japan Rider Reviews: What A Great Experience!The inaugural Island Hopping Japan Cycling Tour recently came to a conclusion on the island of Okinawa. What did the riders think of their journey through the Japanese islands of Honshu, Shikoku, Setonaikai, Honshu, Kyushu, Yakushima, Amami & Okinawa? Lets take a lookAmazing scenery with views enhanced by the effort to get to there, fuelled by exquisite Japanese cuisine, and supported by exceptional staff, in the enjoyable company of interesting fellow riders. Stephen Williams (Australia)This was my second TDA tour. I found the crew, the cycling group, and the tour itself to be everything Id hoped it would be. The tour was challenging but an exploration of parts of Japan that many dont get to see. Our entire group was fun, supportive and inclusive. Our TDA crew and staff were all wonderful! Well done yet again TDA! Charlene Cebryk (Canada)This tour was a personal adventure and challenge. I met extremely interesting engaged riders. The staff were outstanding. I visited places and did things that i could not imagine organizing by myself. I would recommend this trip to anybody who wishes to discover Japan in the presence of motivated co-travellers. Padraig OCarroll (Canada)The Japan Island Hopping Tour is a fabulous new tour the variety of landscapes, challenging and remote cycling, wildlife and a great introduction to Japanese culture off the beaten track are just a few of the highlights. The ferry travel added another fun and interesting dimension. Ruth Storm (UK)TDA is a world class operation based on adventure, cultural awareness and the environment. Safety was paramount as was keeping us well informed as to what was coming up. I loved the white board that gave us a glimpse of our riding future the next day. The riding was challenging but well within reach for most of us and having the option to not ride or ride part way relieved a lot of anxiety for some in the group. We had great group dynamics so that was also a bonus. Thank you TDA for this one of a kind experience, I dont think anyone is on par with you. Catherine McDonald-Smith (Canada)The tour was much more than I expected. We were in the back and beyond on most of our rides. There is not a chance that you could travel to Japan on your own and see the true country. Travel would most likely be along the train, bus, plane and ferry routes. The land and places beyond these corridors would be missed. We got to see, smell and experience the real Japan. What a great experience. Thank you TDA! Frank Smith. (Canada)The TDA model has been undeniably successful. Why? Because TDA preserves the raw adventure while still providing significant structure and organization, a safety net and opportunity for kinship with like-minded riders. As our first long haul guided trip wed say they over-delivered in almost every category. We will do another. Jay Zammit (Canada)A fabulous way to see a part of a fascinating country. A bicycle allows one to cover substantial distances but still immerse in and savour the country, its people, and culture. Ian Tingle (South Africa)This was my absolute favourite tour of the four tours that I have done with TDA! I felt spoiled and was blown away by the routes, hotels, food, crew, scenery, culture, history. We saw a Japan that I bet 99% of tourists would never see. That is what made this trip very special. Brian Cebryk (Canada)RELATEDTOURIsland Hopping Japan Japan Island Hopping. We have taken what was once a military strategy used by both the Japanese and American forces in World War Two and transformed... Related Posts:Leave a Comment for "2025 Island Hopping Japan Rider Reviews: What A Great Experience!" Cancel reply

UPDATED December 12, 2025 BY The TDA Team IN Company, Tour d'Afrique Cape to Kili no comments 2025 Cape to Kili Reviews: An Incredible Adventure!While there will be no future Cape to Kili expeditions, riders can experience a similar route on our annual Tour dAfrique Cycling Expedition.It has been just over a month since the riders on the 2025 Cape to Kili Cycling Expedition completed an epic journey through Africa and they have now had time to reflect on their adventure. Heres what some riders had to say:I absolutely loved it. Wish I were still out there! Zach Allen (USA)Adventurous, challenging, and eye-opening. Truly a once in a lifetime opportunity. Jamie Fuhrman (USA)The tour has been an amazing, deeply immersive experience for me. Thanks to the kindness and constant support of the staff, I never once felt overwhelmed or stressed by the physical effort I always felt safe, cared for, and confident. I achieved more than I ever thought I could, and thats very much because of the truly wonderful team. Kristin Waeterloos (Belgium)The crew on the tour was outstanding. Matthias Kramer (Germany)The crew were excellent , professional, enthusiastic , motivating , helpful . They were well led to deliver a great adventure. Ted Malden (UK)The northern Cape and Cederberg mountains in South Africa were beautiful. Namibia was simply stunning and the star of the tour. Vic Falls and rafting were amazing and Tanzania and the nature were beautiful too! Hubert Schanne (Germany)We had excellent support in every way from bike maintenance to medical and most importantly nutritious meals. The staff were outstanding and riding with a bunch of like minded cyclists is highly recommended. Jim Pollock (Australia)An incredible adventure! Simon Prince (Canada)Nothing can prepare you, for how you will feel, when you are riding along a road and a family of elephants casually crosses in front of you. Those memories remain forever whether you managed to get the camera out or not! Adel Tyson (UK)This was my first real cycling trip. TDA helped me push the boundaries of what I was capable of in a way that felt safe but the right amount of challenge. Its ignited a passion for bike packing and Im excited to continue to explore this form of travel in the future. I felt that the experience with TDA has really well equipped me with the knowledge and experience to be able to do trips on my own in the future. Josh Zweig (Canada)Tour Leader Yanez noted we should fill our buckets with silence in these quiet places. The ride wasnt a race but an adventure full of fun, an opportunity to challenge yourself and to meet new people along the way riders, crew and strangers, embracing each other in our shared journey. Growing up in South Africa but having been living abroad for many years the sectional ride from Cape Town to Windhoek renew my love for the place and people and exposed me again to the wild, ancient landscape that can so captivate the mind and replenish the soul. Thanks for making it happen. Michael Viljoen (Australia)RELATEDTOURTour d'Afrique The trans-African crossing from Cairo to Cape Town has long been one of the worlds epic journeys and an iconic goal for global adventurers. Over... Related Posts:Leave a Comment for "2025 Cape to Kili Reviews: An Incredible Adventure!" Cancel reply