North America

The scenery was incredible, especially at the 3 places where we stayed during the trip. The trip leaders were excellent and very attentive to the group. The additional excursions, kayaking, Butchart Gardens, a visit to a cheese farm, wine and cider tasting were a lot of fun. I would have classified the biking as moderate, the 1st 3 days were quite hilly but I did improve my cycling skills.

This was an outstanding trip exploring Vancouver Island and the Gulf Islands of British Columbia. The guides were excellent, food superb and accommodations first-class! We had a group of 10 friends on the trip with varying degrees of cycling skills and all of us had a great time. Most of the riding is on well maintained multi-use paths or through safe residential areas. There were some "good" hills on Pender Island; they were challenging but not impossible. The stay on Pender Island was broken up by an educational and fun sea kayaking experience. Another highlight of the trip was a visit on the final day of riding to the world famous Butchart Gardens-it's so beautiful it will take your breath away. Everyone in our group opted for the Pre-Trip Extension in Victoria and we were glad we did. Victoria is the jewel of British Colombia and we enjoyed every moment while there from walking the harbor, observing the street entertainers, eating in excellent restaurants, taking a cruise of the harbor and going to "High Tea" at the famous Empress Hotel. The locals were friendly and gracious. I am convinced Victoria is one of the most bike friendly cities in the world, and I have ridden a bike in both Amsterdam and Copenhagen. Overall this was a great trip and I highly recommend the experience.