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Types of Bicycle Touring Journeys

Solo Bicycle Touring - To travel solo in an unfamiliar area is not for everyone. Advantages include flexibility of itinerary in that you can cycle as far as you wish each day and it is not a problem to find overnight accommodation. The best advantage is you can stop as long as you wish to see a historic castle, museum or whatever interests you.

You are not totally alone as you frequently meet other cyclists along the journey and can stop for short conversations and generally you can meet people at the camp ground, hostel or hotel that are also traveling alone. A main disadvantage is you need to make all the arrangements yourself.
Bicycle Club Tour- I find most bicycle touring guides forget this option. However, most cities have bicycle clubs which you can join for a small fee. When you find a club that matches your style of cycling you will also generally discover people who lead long distance trips as well.

Advantages are there is someone taking care of the route and accommodation and from a social point you are traveling with people you know. Some clubs such as CTC club in the UK offer numerous destinations while other clubs don't stray too far from home. Just be aware that the organizers of these trips are usually volunteers and there planning expertise will vary.

Small Group Bicycle Tour - A small group is usually anywhere from two to a dozen people. One or two people will usually plan the route, arrange for the flights and accommodation. The group can set the distance it wishes to travel each day, accommodation will suit the group style, you have friends to talk with as you cycle and you can stop wherever you wish. The only disadvantage is the amount of time that can be spent at a castle, museum, etc. as you must compromise to meet the needs of most people.

Guided Bicycle Tour - Major benefits include an experienced guide who knows the route, the best things to see along the way, some undiscovered restaurants that are fabulous, and opportunity to meet some great like minded people. Travel companies vary in price and quality from deluxe tours offered by Butterfield & Robinson or Backroads to the cheaper three star tours offered by companies such as Explore or Exodus.