Very legitimately you might ask “Just who goes on these cycling tours?” They seem pretty crazy.
You might be surprised by the answer to that question. First of all, the majority of the riders are older folks, 50 to 70ish, with the rare octogenarian like Jim. I think that this is likely due in large measure to the availability of time for people who are either retired or well established in their work, children grown (or nearly so) and therefore able to be away from home for extended periods of time. In addition, there are often fewer financial constraints than in earlier years. There are a few riders who are younger, interested and able to do these trips but they are the exception despite their often greater physical stamina.
The group includes many current and former careers including business owners, hedge-fund managers, physicians, lawyers, teachers, dectective, and even an aerospace PhD who calculates flight paths for SpaceEx. There are riders from many countries: England, Scotland, Wales, Ireland, the Netherlands, Denmark, Germany, Australia, Canada, and the US as well as staff from South Africa, Brazil, Argentina, the US, and Germany. The mix of accents and idioms can be quite entertaining as well as the mix of favorite curses (Bloody Hell!!!)!!!
Everyone is a strong rider but some are stronger and faster than others. I am a slow poke but manage to make it in the end.
Everyone wears out eventually and naps occur in odd locations.
Cycling garb is pretty unique: visibility, warmth and padding are of paramount importance with a bit of whimsy thrown in for good measure.
Time to go get packing for another day in the saddle. Thanks to those who shared their photos and to those of you who are riding along with our traveling village. Adios!
oldfolkswithbikes 
Loving reading these… just wish I was fit enough and had the time to join you amazing friends xx 💕🚴🏼💕
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What an awesome trip with a great group! Would like to do one of these in the future! Even more envious of warm sunshine. Got our first snowfall here this morning.
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Hi Barb, From your photos, it appears that socks make the rider. Foot fashion cycle ware. Who would have known! Interesting read highlighting your riding clan. A passion for adventure, cycling in general, the challenge of putting yourself out there to see what you can do. And having the time and resources to do it. In some very interesting places too. What an interesting cadre of people to spend some time with! We are really enjoy your posts. Thanks. J & L
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Another interesting and thoughtful blog – Thanks Barb
The photo of the volcano (I assume extinct) is amazing.
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Wow wow wow. I just re-read all of the posts for the trip, catching up on a couple I somehow missed. Thank you so much for taking the time to post, Barb. I am blown away by the vast and beautiful natural landscapes and the cheeriness of the people and other creatures. Every time I think “oh, I should tell her THIS is my favorite photo or observation,” another transcendent vision or insight appears… (and I was really really charmed by the folk saints…) I love thinking of you all out there….Keep having fun 🙂
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I like the llama 🦙 socks! Be careful near the volcano 🌋. Seems like you are traveling with some fun people. Don’t teach the kids too many new curse words when you get back.
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