France—Veronique says she likes to tell travelers the stories they won't find in books. That goes for the cookbooks, too, because Veronique is a trained chef and cooking instructor whose culinary expertise will enhance your appreciation for the flavors of France. A former French teacher and seasoned traveler, Veronique is also an avid gardener, so as you walk along the back roads of Provence you'll learn all about the local flora.

New Zealand—The consummate outdoorsman, Rick is a mountain and road biker, golfer, angler, alpine skier, mountain climber, kayaker and hiker who is thrilled to show you “the most beautiful, pristine and continuously changing landscapes you have ever seen.” A native of Dunedin, New Zealand, he was a teacher and a farmer before taking his skills on the road with VBT.

U.S.—Andy ventured west from Pittsburgh 30 years ago and decided to stay for the warm weather, big skies, sweeping plains, mountain vistas and desert beauty that he enjoys as he leads VBT travelers through Arizona. A guitar player and former EMT, he guarantees a warm welcome—if not warm weather—advising “In Arizona they say, ‘Don’t bother saving for a rainy day, because you’ll never get to spend your money.’ ”

Vietnam—Nam is fond of the Vietnamese saying “Di mot ngay dang, hoc mot sang khon,” which he roughly translates as “Travel forms the young man.” Traveling with Nam in and around Hanoi will certainly form lasting impressions of his lovely country. Nam likes to bike and kayak, and linger over coffee in Hanoi’s old quarter. Join him, and he promises to “bring you unforgettable connecting moments with local people.”

Costa Rica—Giovanni wants you to understand the Costa Rican expression pura vida (pure life) firsthand. “‘Pura vida’ is more than a way to say ‘hello.’ It’s an invitation to enjoy life to the fullest in this small but amazing place named Costa Rica.” Giovanni is a certified Naturalist Guide, an expert whitewater kayaker, and has been trained in CPR, first aid, and experiential education.

Puglia—Debora describes her native Puglia as “a tongue in the middle of the Mediterranean Sea where all cultures left a trace.” It’s no wonder water figures in her description, as Debora is a swimming instructor, scuba diver and free diver (aside from being an avid traveler and cyclist, of course!). It’s a good thing she is so active, because Debora claims to eat “gelato before everything.” Be sure to let her direct you towards the best gelaterie in Italy.

Croatia—Croatian native Matej is a multilinguist who worked as a language editor while he was studying for his degree in marketing and economics. But travel captured his imagination early on, and he has been a professional trip leader since 2000. Matej is an experienced hiker and cyclist, who also loves art and history. When at home in Split, he volunteers with Srce, an organization dedicated to helping children with cerebral palsy.

Czech Republic—Zuzana was born in the Czech Republic but emigrated to Canada with her family in 1984. Now back at home, she brings a unique dual perspective and hearty sense of humor to her role as a trip leader. Zuzana claims that her native Czech Republic has “the best beer and beautiful women.” Find out if this is just an idle boast when you join her on our Czech Republic, Germany & Austria biking vacation.

France—Pascal wants you to know that, no matter how you envision Provence, it’s “even better than you imagine!” Born and raised in Avignon, the “City of Popes,” he is eager to share his enthusiasm for the region’s celebrated food, wine and lifestyle. While walking and outdoor activities top his list of special interests, he also enjoys cooking, sports, and discussing politics with travelers. His in-depth knowledge and passion for his homeland is sure to enrich your experience walking in Provence.

Tuscany—Elena says she loves extreme sports, but VBT travelers report that the only thing extreme about Elena is her warmth, enthusiasm and capability. She was born and raised in Lumezzane, in Brescia province, but her love of sports like kitesurfing, climbing and the triathlon has taken her all over Italy and beyond. Elena claims that everyone knows Italy has “the best beauty, history, sun, food and wine.” But she aims to help you savor it, slowly, through biking, “the best means of transport to see the world.”

Holland—If you explore the Netherlands and Belgium with Wouter, he promises an experience that is “full of humor, history, local details, stories, good organization and flexibility.” Born and educated in Amsterdam, Wouter is widely traveled, and has worked as a tour guide and entertainment manager in Spain, Italy, Greece, France and beyond. You will find Wouter himself quite entertaining, as he is a multi-lingual raconteur, competitive volleyball player and (in his words) “a reasonable piano player.”