TDA Tours 101 - TDA Global Cycling

TDA Tours 101
- a guide to cycling the world -
Trans-Europa
North
American
Epic
Orient Express
Silk Route
Bamboo Road
Ruta Maya
South
American
Epic
Tour
d'Afrique
Hippie
Trail
Trans-Oceania
By Tour d’Afrique Ltd.
Not your typical bike tour company. Africa was
only the beginning. We operate on 6 continents,
and in over 60 countries with tours ranging from
2 weeks to as long as 5 months.
“It was the world’s best trip, period! It exceeded all of my expectations.
It was so refreshing to travel areas untouched and as far from the usual
‘McWorld’ we increasingly see everywhere. Go while there is still time!”
– James Brown TDA 2003
version 2.0, updated January 14, 2015
Table of Contents
Welcome .................................................................................................................................................................... 1
Participant Eligibility ............................................................................................................................................. 2
Important Dates .................................................................................................................................................... 2
Entry Fee.................................................................................................................................................................... 3
Payment................................................................................................................................................................. 4
The Entry Fee Includes: ....................................................................................................................................... 5
The Entry Fee Does Not Include: ....................................................................................................................... 5
Comparing our Tours by the Numbers ............................................................................................................. 6
Tour Preparations and Paperwork......................................................................................................................... 7
Passport & Visas ................................................................................................................................................... 7
Insurance ............................................................................................................................................................... 7
Money .................................................................................................................................................................... 8
Arrival & Departure .............................................................................................................................................. 9
On Tour .................................................................................................................................................................... 10
Riding Rules ......................................................................................................................................................... 10
Daily Routine ........................................................................................................................................................ 11
What to Expect while Riding ............................................................................................................................ 13
Safe Cycling ......................................................................................................................................................... 14
Making the Most of Each Day .......................................................................................................................... 14
Food ...................................................................................................................................................................... 16
Accommodations ............................................................................................................................................... 17
Support ................................................................................................................................................................. 18
Gratuities for Field Staff .................................................................................................................................... 21
Vehicles ................................................................................................................................................................ 22
Communications ................................................................................................................................................. 23
Health & Safety ...................................................................................................................................................... 24
Medical - Before Departure.............................................................................................................................. 24
Immunizations .................................................................................................................................................... 24
Hygiene ................................................................................................................................................................ 25
Hazards ................................................................................................................................................................ 26
Emergencies ........................................................................................................................................................ 30
What to Bring .......................................................................................................................................................... 31
Documentation and Identification ................................................................................................................... 32
Camping Gear (for trips with camping) .......................................................................................................... 32
Clothing ................................................................................................................................................................ 33
Cycle Clothing ..................................................................................................................................................... 34
First Aid and Toiletries ....................................................................................................................................... 34
First Aid Kit to Carry on Your Bike ................................................................................................................... 35
Other Suggestions .............................................................................................................................................. 35
What NOT to bring ............................................................................................................................................. 36
Bicycle and Accessories ........................................................................................................................................ 38
“What kind of Bike should I bring?” ................................................................................................................ 38
Seat...................................................................................................................................................................... 40
Tires ...................................................................................................................................................................... 41
Hydration ............................................................................................................................................................. 41
Accessories.......................................................................................................................................................... 42
Spare Parts .......................................................................................................................................................... 42
Tools ..................................................................................................................................................................... 42
The Tour d’Afrique Foundation ........................................................................................................................... 44
Rider Fundraising ................................................................................................................................................ 45
Rider Testimonials ................................................................................................................................................. 46
Welcome
Welcome to TDA Tours 101: A guide to cycling the world with us. We believe there is no better way to
experience the amazing scenery, history and culture of the world than from the seat of a bicycle.
The information contained in this document is designed to help you prepare for your cycling
adventure of a lifetime. It explains the logistics of the expeditions, the services provided, and what is
required for you to complete your journey safely. With a tour of this nature there is a steep learning
curve for the uninitiated. This document will give you a head start so that when you arrive for the first
day of your tour you’re ready to roll.
In the months leading up to a tour, all registered riders will receive a series of important bulletins in
their online registration portal (MyTours). These bulletins will include more details on and
amendments to the information in this package. Once you have registered for a tour, we encourage
you to check MyTours on a regular basis and to make sure that emails from the following addresses
are not directed to your
junk mail folder:
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
Whether you are already registered, or still dreaming of a future cycling adventure with us, this
document will be a valuable resource for you. If you have any questions regarding any of the
information in this package, please don’t hesitate to contact our office by phone at +1 416 364 8255 or
[email protected].
1
Participant Eligibility
Participants must:
•
be
between
the
ages of 18 and 69.
Or if you are over
69 years
of age
please contact the
office and you can
tell us why you are
still fit, healthy, and
ready
for
the
challenge!
•
have a clean bill of
health.
•
Complete the registration process.
•
submit all required information, documents and payments on time.
•
know how to ride a bicycle, have a hunger for adventure, and the willingness to deal with
adversity.
Important Dates
•
6 Months prior to tour departure: end of the “early bird” discount. The amount varies by tour.
Please see the respective Tours’ pages on our website for details.
•
5 Months prior to tour departure: online Health & Fitness Questionnaire due.
•
3 Months prior to tour departure: full tour rider entry fee due.
•
3 Months prior to tour departure: all forms must be completed online in your “My Tours”
registration portal.
•
Entry fee and online forms for sectional riders are due 90 days before the start of their section
•
For late entries – payment due within 7 days of registering
“Very innovative. Routes well-researched but still providing enough uncertainty for a sense of
adventure. Just the right mixture of rider support and independence for a reasonable price."
- Paul Davison, North American Epic 2011
2
Entry Fee
Full tour and sectional entry fees as well as any tour specific discounts can be seen on the respective
tours’ web pages. Most full tours offer an early payment discount. Discounts vary by tour. For
sectional riders, there is a 10% discount for those who do 2 or more sections of the same tour.
To reward our valued alumni and recognize their importance we have come up with a generous
alumni discount program. Here is how it works:
Alumni Discount
2nd Tour
5% off
3rd Tour
6% off
4th Tour
7% off
5th Tour
8% off
6th Tour
9% off
7th and all
future Tours
10% off
It applies to both sectional and full tour riders. For example, if you have taken part in 3 expeditions
with us in the past, then on your next tour you will qualify for a 7% discount.
3
Payment
Payment of your entry fee can be made using any of the following methods:
•
Bank wire transfer (US/Canadian Dollars, Euros, British Pounds or South African Rand).
•
Certified cheque, bank draft or money order made payable to “Tour d’Afrique.”
•
Payment in cash in person at our Toronto office.
**Important Note re: Bank Charges: As the customer you are required to pay your bank for the cost
of their sending the transfer. Your bank should also transfer the funds directly to our bank rather than
through an intermediary bank. If they must use an intermediary then the intermediary's charges
should not be deducted from the transfer as we expect to be paid in full. (In other words, TDA only
pays for our own bank's charges involved in receiving the transfer.)
4
The Entry Fee Includes:
Below is an overview but you can also learn more about what each individual tour includes by clicking
on the ‘What’s Included’ tab for each tour. For example, here is what is included for the Silk Route.
•
Tour organization, management, logistics and staff. Staff typically include a Tour Director, chef,
mechanic, and other supporting staff as needed. Sometimes a medic will also be on staff
where needed.
•
Additional local support staff such as drivers and translators are hired as needed.
•
One night’s hotel accommodation in the start and finish cities, based on double occupancy.
•
Most tours are camping, or a combination of hotels and camping. Some of our tours in Central
America and Asia are all hotel accommodation. Details on specific tours can be found on the
relevant web pages.
•
Meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) on most riding days, plus an afternoon soup on select
expeditions.
•
Vehicle support to carry baggage and sick/injured/tired riders.
•
Daily description of the route.
•
Tour specific cycling jersey (at end of tour. It is mailed to earlier sectional riders.)
•
Medals for all participants at the end of your tour or section.
Read more about the services we provide on our website.
The Entry Fee Does Not Include:
•
Flight/transfer to the start of the tour and from the finish of your journey
•
Visas (requirements vary by tour and rider’s nationality)
•
Bicycle, spare parts, gear & accessories
•
Equipment such as a tent, camping mattress and sleeping bag (if required – tour dependent)
•
Personal health and travel insurance
•
Vaccinations and medical supplies
•
Electronic devices and any other personal need items
•
Meals on rest days plus dinner on the nights before rest days
•
Side trips on route and souvenirs (optional)
•
Upgrades to hotels along the route (optional – tour dependent)
•
Gratuities for field staff (optional)
5
100
208 / 140 / 145 /
6355
7321
10000
120*
113
103
114
110
116*
180/
180/
150/
160/7
180/
170/ 130/
*preliminary figures
Ruta Maya
12160
Trans-Oceania
12740
*preliminary figures
North American Epic
92
Bamboo Road
Longest Stage /
128
Trans-Europa
Average km per day
12076 3600 2958
Silk Route
Total km
South American Epic
Numbers
Hippie Trail
Tours by the
Orient Express
Comparing our
Tour d’Afrique
Comparing our Tours by the Numbers
10800 2700
100
65
45
58
70*
70
50
0
70
50*
4
2
3
4
4
3
3
3
3
5
121
50
40
163
133
80
88
116
124
35
2
33
41
65*
69
50
89
45
69*
36
65
0
0
56*
45
0
0
7
36*
0
55
18
0
45*
20
31
0
60
20*
0
# of rest days
27
11
10
35
25
18
24
22
31
8
# of countries
10
8
1
6
7
14
7
3
3
5
Shortest Stage
Overall Difficulty
Rating (out of 5)
Total days
# nights in hotels
# of nights rough
camping
# nights in
campsites
6
50
Tour Preparations and Paperwork
Passport & Visas
You must have a regular (not a temporary) passport that is valid for at least 6 months following the
end of your tour. Your passport must have at least 8 blank pages. This is strictly enforced by some of
the countries we pass through on our
tours. Always safeguard your passport.
Make copies of the ID and visa pages of
your passport and keep these separate
from your passport.
Visa requirements for each country that
our tours pass through depend upon your
nationality.
It is the responsibility of each participant
to verify the visa requirements as they
pertain
to
their
nationality.
This
information can be confirmed through the embassies of the countries in question. When applying for
visas before your arrival, make sure that the dates and validity cover the time when you will be in
each country.
Information on specific visas required will be included in bulletins to registered riders.
Insurance
It is required that all riders have proper medical and travel insurance that covers the medical
treatment and other costs associated with accidents and illnesses, including repatriation back home.
There are a wide variety of policies available. Some policies specifically exclude “dangerous
activities”, including cycling. You don't want that sort of policy. Make sure that your policy is for
worldwide coverage and that it includes the entire period that you will be away from home. Your
policy must cover trip interruption and cancellation, in case you are forced to leave the tour before
7
the end due to medical or other reasons covered by your policy. Lost or damaged baggage should be
covered and make sure it includes coverage for your bicycle as well.
You should always purchase your chosen travel insurance at the same time as paying your entry fee
for the Tour. More information on travel and medical insurance will be included in bulletins to
registered riders.
Money
Keep your valuables (money, passport, credit cards, air ticket, insurance policy, etc.) safe in your daily
or permanent bag, or in your tour locker on the Tour d’Afrique. For your everyday needs you will have
a small amount of money and a photocopy of your passport ID page well concealed on your bike or
person. A more in depth explanation of how much money to bring, what currency, availability of
ATMs and whether credit cards will work in most places on your specific tour will be included in a
bulletin to registered riders.
8
Arrival & Departure
Full tour riders and any sectional riders starting at the beginning of the tour should plan on arriving a
few days before the tour start. This will give you enough time to recover from your flight, to attend
the important rider orientation meetings held on the days before the tour sets out, to organize your
stuff, rebuild your bike with the assistance of our mechanic and have a warm-up ride. This will also
allow you time if you want to explore the particular city and visit the many local sites. Details on how
to book your personal nights at the hotel in the start city will be included in a bulletin to registered
riders.
All sectional riders will be given instructions on where to meet the tour. Our staff will help you find a
cardboard bike box (or suitable alternative) upon your departure from the tour. At the end of the tour
you may also wish to spend a few extra days in and around the finish line city.
9
On Tour
Riding Rules
Our tours are both cycling expeditions and amateur races. The emphasis will always be on safety and
fun for all those involved. Respect for the staff, your fellow cyclists, and the local people, at all times,
is essential.
Outlined below are the general rules that govern the tour. The Tour Leader and Race Director have
final authority when it comes to interpreting these rules. Please note that flagrant violations of, or
failure to follow, these rules, including disrespecting fellow riders, tour staff or host country nationals
or laws, may result in your removal from the tour.
1. Number plate must be visible on the bicycle.
2. You must wear a helmet when riding a bicycle.
3. For safety reasons riders are not allowed to leave camp before dawn or arrive after dark.
4. You should not make a purposeful deviation from the set route of the stage causing riders or
staff to use resources unnecessarily.
5. You are not allowed to hold onto or draft a vehicle at any time while cycling.
6. You must obey the local traffic regulations at all times.
7. You must not ride while under the influence of alcohol or recreational drugs.
8. It’s never ok to litter.
9. Unsportsmanlike conduct, verbal abuse or physical violence directed towards staff, fellow
riders or local citizens is never acceptable.
10
Daily Routine
On cycling days, wake up times will be early but will fluctuate with the changing time zones, climates
and hours of daylight. While breakfast is being prepared riders will pack up their tent and other
personal belongings (for tours with camping). When breakfast is complete the riders will load their
bags into the support vehicles and depart for the day’s journey. Approximately half way through the
day’s ride there will be our lunch vehicle that will provide simple and nutritious ingredients for riders
to make sandwiches. There will also be water, fresh fruit and, on select expeditions, energy drinks.
Riding into camp at the end of each day, you will find our support vehicles and kitchen. Locate your
equipment and set up your tent. Or, if you are cycling an expedition with hotels included, you will find
a white board with instructions for checking into your room, meals, etc. The remainder of the
afternoon can be spent exploring the sites, local restaurants, doing your laundry or just relaxing.
11
Each evening before dinner, the staff will host a
rider meeting. This will cover the following day’s
route, including navigation, hazards, interesting
sites and accommodations. The route directions
and any other pertinent information will be
provided on a white board for you to copy into
your own notes.
After dinner it is your choice to retire for the
evening or to continue to explore the local
community.
On rest days, you will be staying in a variety of
hotels or campsites depending on the tour. You
are free to discover the local cuisine in each rest
day town. We plan our rest days in destinations
that
have
cultural,
historical
and
natural
significance. While taking in the splendors of the
countries we pass through, riders will also be busy
dealing with laundry, internet, shopping, eating
and, of course, getting a good night’s sleep.
12
"For four months I spent every day seeing a part of the world that I had never seen, in a way
that few people get to experience it. To visit a continent on a bike is so unique and exciting bringing you so close to the people, the land and the wildlife. It is exceptional. I felt like the
physical effort, which was tough, coupled with the camaraderie of the Tour and the magic of the
land made for one of, if not, the most remarkable, memorable, life enhancing experiences I could
have. Bravo TDA!"
-Asleigh Emerick, Tour d’Afrique 2008
What to Expect while Riding
Daily routes, distances, and other stage details are not definite and can be changed on short notice by
the Tour Leader and/or the Race Director. All riders must accept that the route of the tour is on an
open course. There are no guarantees that the route will be immune from traffic mishaps, unexpected
deviations or other potentially dangerous unknowns.
The need for patience and flexibility is essential. There will be days that do not go as smoothly as you
might have hoped as well as days full of frustrations, unexpected difficulties and challenges.
On some of our more challenging expeditions like the South American Epic or the Silk Route, don’t be
surprised if you find yourself in one of the following predicaments:
•
A herd of camels or cattle blocks the road.
•
You are cheered on by a group of school children one day, only to be pelted by stones from a
similar gathering the following day.
•
You miss a turn and end up having to cycle an extra 10 km backtracking in order to reach the
finish line.
•
You slow down to a near standstill as you navigate through the crowds in a village on market
day.
•
The truck containing your bags gets stuck and after a long day in the heat, you are forced to
wait several hours in your cycling gear until the truck finally arrives at camp.
13
Safe Cycling
Riders are responsible for their own safety on the route and the practice of defensive cycling cannot
be emphasized enough.
While the tour route has been deliberately chosen to avoid fast and heavy traffic as much as possible,
there will be stretches, especially around larger towns and cities, where the other users of the road
pose a real danger. Many of the accidents that happen on tours are due to riders not cycling
defensively.
Be sure to slow down when you are starting a steep rough descent, when pedestrians may wander
across the road in front of you without looking, or whenever there is the potential for danger or an
accident; in short, whenever the situation demands it.
Unless you are an exceptional athlete, riding hard and fast every day will eventually wear you down
and this will take away from your overall experience. It is very important to listen to your body when
it’s telling you to take it easy or even to take a day off your bike. Those tours that include race
components also include a good number of non-racing days that are meant to encourage you to relax
and take in the areas you are passing through.
By their nature our tours have a certain level of unpredictability to them. They require you to maintain
your physical health, maintain your equipment, and most importantly, maintain your mental strength.
Making the Most of Each Day
Our tours are designed to take you to places that are not often travelled, in a way that most will
never experience.
Your aim should be to make the most of each day’s adventure while you’re on tour. You’ve likely
invested a lot of thought, planning and money into your trip and, leading up to departure, you will be
crossing the days off your calendar. Once you’ve landed at your starting point, take a moment to
reflect on the incredible experience that you are about to embark on. You will be amazed at how fast
it goes by.
Among the real joys of traveling by bicycle are the freedoms to determine your own pace and to
immerse yourself in new surroundings, taking in the sights, smells, and sounds of the fascinating
14
locales you will pass through. Try not to get so caught up in making it to your day’s destination that
you miss the pleasures of the journey. Stopping in villages to meet the people or to visit a celebrated
local attraction will only add colour and flavour to your overall experience. Often the unexpected
surprises and speed bumps turn into the best memories.
Adventure travel is all about being spontaneous and relishing the unexpected. In a word, it is exactly
that – adventure.
Expedition Behaviour
NOLS – the renowned outdoor leadership school – created this term that is very relevant to our cycling
expeditions. It is important that both the staff and riders understand that there is a lot about our
cycling expeditions that can be uncomfortable, if not difficult at times, and that through working
together it becomes easier. These points by NOLS are an excellent way to help set your expectations
appropriately and to get the most out of the group and the experience.
•
Serve the mission and goals of the group.
•
Be as concerned for others as you are for yourself.
•
Treat everyone with dignity and respect.
•
Support leadership and growth in everyone.
•
Respect the cultures you contact.
•
Be kind and open-hearted.
•
Do your share and stay organized.
•
Help others, but don't routinely do their work.
•
Model integrity by being honest and accountable.
•
Admit and correct your mistakes.
15
Food
Proper nutrition and a wellbalanced diet are particularly
important
in staying
especially
strenuous
when
healthy,
performing
activity.
While
camping, as part of your daily
diet, we will be providing you
with cooked meals prepared on
site using as many local fruits,
vegetables and ingredients as
are available. We serve meals
that will satisfy the appetites and
nutritional
needs
of
hungry
riders. On cycling days riders will be given breakfast, lunch and supper, as well as drinking water. On
some of the longer expeditions a soup is also provided in the afternoon upon arrival at camp.
As part of their documentation each rider must make the company aware of any food allergies they
have.
We will always ensure that there is enough water for drinking. We do not monitor the level of food
intake of each rider, so we encourage all riders to eat properly and to supplement their meals with
locally purchased foods as they deem necessary.
On tours where we stay in hotels, dinner and breakfasts are included on cycling days and will be
eaten together as a group at the hotel restaurant or a restaurant nearby. Lunches will be provided on
route around the halfway point in the day. Riders are responsible for their own food on the rest days
as well as dinner on a riding day prior to a scheduled rest day. This is your opportunity to sample the
local cuisine.
“Rick & Jenn consume a hamburger & fries, a chicken burrito with rice & beans, a plate of
quesadillas, a chocolate sundae, apple cake & ice cream and 2 cokes. Rick informs me that
he has lost 10 kilos on the trip so far. ”
– Leah McLaren, Tour d’Afrique 2009
16
Accommodations
On tours where rest days are spent
in hotels or hostels the style of
rooms and services provided will
vary depending on the location.
They
are
convenient
facilities
chosen
access
and
accommodations
to
to
tourist
are
provide
necessary
sites.
All
based
on
double room occupancy but some
accommodations
may
have
an
increased number of beds in a room.
Reservations are booked in advance.
Any roommate requests must be
made to the office 60 days before the beginning of the tour. Single room supplements may be
available at an additional charge. Prices will be determined for each section. To request a single room
or to inquire about the pricing please contact the office 90 days before the beginning of the tour.
For all tours hotel accommodation
is included for the night before
the tour departs and the night we
arrive in the destination city. For
sectional riders, accommodation
on the first and last night of their
section is also included.
On tours where we camp on
riding days, the quality of campground facilities and amenities vary. In Europe most are quite
comfortable with a wide variety of amenities, whereas in Africa, Asia and South America we will at
times camp in the “bush” with no facilities.
More tour specific accommodation information will be included in a bulletin to registered riders.
17
Support
Each tour’s supporting infrastructure has been designed to accommodate cyclists of different abilities.
Staff will include a Tour Leader, bicycle mechanic, a chef (on camping tours), and sometimes medics
and others as needed. The total number of staff will depend
on the size of the group.
Please remember that some of the staff are also doing this
tour for the first time and will also need time to adjust to
their
new
lifestyle
and
responsibilities.
Support
and
encouragement of the staff inevitably makes the tour a
more enjoyable experience for everyone.
Tour Leader
The designated Tour Leader has the overall responsibility for
the route, the schedule, and the safety of the riders.
18
Chef
Head chef is one of the most
demanding staff positions. It’s
quite a challenge to shop for
and
prepare
all
the
food
needed by a large tour group
day after day. While the chef is
often assisted by other staff
members any help that you can
provide them, from chopping
onions to bringing them a beer,
will be very much appreciated!
Mechanic
All participants are
expected
capable
to
be
of
basic
maintenance
and
repair
of
bicycles.
very
At
least
their
the
you
should be able to
change a tire, fix a
flat, and clean and
lubricate
your
bicycle. The bicycle
mechanic is there
to assist with more
involved repairs and
to ensure that everyone’s bicycle is in good working order. The mechanic will be available at
designated times most evenings and on rest days.
19
Medic
On some of our tours that operate in more remote or
rugged environments, we have one or even two medics
on staff. They are primarily there to deal with medical
emergencies, but they also are available on a set schedule
for consultation, to assist with dressing of wounds, and
other basic medical needs.
The medics will expect you to also be involved in
redressing wounds, and buying your own supplies and
bandages along the way as needed. The medical
equipment and supplies the tour carries are for emergency
use only. The tour medic cannot prescribe any medication
and is only able to make suggestions based on the
medications and advice you have received from your
doctor.
20
Gratuities for Field Staff
Tipping is greatly appreciated by the field staff. After 2-4 months, many of our riders are physically
and emotionally exhausted, and in that state it is easy to forget that the staff, who have supported
them all the way across a continent, are working in a service industry where tips are an expected
way of receiving thanks.
As a general guideline, a participant should plan to tip each staff member who worked the full tour
US$50 - $100. A pro-rated amount can be calculated for those who have worked on a shorter stretch
of the tour and for local support staff who help us in some countries. Tipping is something the whole
group of riders may wish to discuss together as the end of the tour draws near.
“TDA and the team en route made every effort to provide tasty and nourishing food
and good accommodation. A HEARTFELT THANK YOU FOR AN EXTRAORDINARY
JOURNEY !!!!!!!”
- Walli Pagniello, Trans-Europa 2012
21
Vehicles
Support vehicles will vary depending on the tour. In Europe & North America there will typically be
two cargo type vans; one of which will carry the riders’ belongings, the other will serve as the
kitchen/dinner van.
In Africa we have our own fleet of overland and 4x4 vehicles (pictured above) that will transport all
baggage, food and water.
In Asia and South America we typically subcontract local vehicles and drivers.
Should anyone be unable to ride due to
injury, illness, fatigue or mechanical failure,
the support vehicles will transport the rider
and their bike where space allows. However,
it is generally expected that every rider will
be on their bike each day.
22
Communications
Prior to the tour all enquiries can be made to our office by either phone or email.
During the tour the staff will be using cell phones with local numbers and satellite phones for
communication. Riders may wish to bring an unlocked cell phone and purchase local SIM cards and
minutes to maintain communications with friends and family back home. Cell phones and other
communication devices will receive adequate coverage in most areas but there will also be stretches
of the tour where there is no coverage.
Friends and family can also follow along through our Facebook page and Twitter account.
Internet cafes can be found in most rest day locations and in many of the towns en route.
In the event of an emergency, family or friends of a rider who need to get in touch with them should
contact the Tour d’Afrique office in Toronto. Our field staff and office are generally in contact on a
daily basis and the message will be passed on quickly.
More information on communication from and with the tour will be included in a bulletin to registered
riders.
23
Health & Safety
Health and safety are major concerns on expeditions of this length and are also the key elements in
completing the expedition. Staying healthy and safe requires several steps: (1) preparation before
departure (2) precautions and practices while on the tour and (3) follow up after completing the tour.
Medical - Before Departure
Make sure you are healthy. Get the following check-ups: medical, dental, and ophthalmologic. If you
wear glasses or contact lenses, take a spare pair with your written prescription. If you take
prescription medication, ensure you bring an adequate supply (see Medical Packing list). For your own
safety, take time before the trip to educate yourself on the health and safety issues of each of the
countries we are passing through.
Immunizations
It is of utmost importance to protect one’s self against preventable diseases. We recommend that you
visit your local travel medical clinic or doctor’s office at least two months before your departure to
determine whether you require updating your vaccinations. A detailed immunization list for each
respective tour will be included in a bulletin to registered riders.
24
Hygiene
Prevention is the best
medicine. While travelling
with a group of this size,
who live and eat together,
hygiene is crucial.
Hand
washing before meals and
after using the bathroom
is imperative to prevent
the
transmission
communicable
of
illnesses
among the group. It is
recommended that riders
bring a small personal
supply of hand sanitizer.
"To sum up the experience in a few lines is impossible, and I constantly find myself at a loss
when people ask "How was the trip?" If I answered honestly, it would likely take all day to
explain the seismic shift in the way that the trip has impacted my life on various levels. I
trained a lot for the trip, constantly imagining what the trip would be like while on the bike.
I'd be at the computer, trying to read others' accounts of their trip, I read over the
information packet numerous times and I thought about it obsessively. Still, there was really
nothing that could have actually prepared me for what it was actually like on the ground -to be completely immersed in an unfamiliar part of the world rolling along on a bike, every
ten minutes having a new part of your mind open up from any number of things: some
view you were seeing along the road, or a cluster of little kids screaming at you, or a burst
of rain, or a joke from another rider, or the sheer physicality of feeling the sixth out of
seven hours on the saddle. I've done self-supported touring before, but the advantage of
being so well supported really took the anxious edge off the task and thus enabled a really
rich experience. Thanks much."
- Nate Cavalieri, Tour d’Afrique 2009 & Lonely Planet author
25
Hazards
Your safety is of the
utmost concern to
the support staff. As
with all travel to
unfamiliar
territory,
respect
the
culture
and
local
its
people, and observe
the local laws. Take
time before the trip
to educate yourself
on
each
of
the
countries we are passing through. Read travel guides and other travel literature. Call us at the office
for the most current news on the tour, the route, support staff and security.
Vehicles on the Road
As with all cycling on shared
roads, your greatest hazard
is
motorized
vehicles
so
appropriate safety/visibility
gear is recommended.
“Best TDA trip I have been on. Mainly due to excellent support crew, great route
and very challenging"
- Jos Malherbe, Ruta Maya 2012
26
Environmental
While in the sun, apply sunscreen often to prevent skin
damage. Use a sunscreen that is sweat and water
resistant with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 30 or
more and reapply it several times during the day. Check
the label to make sure your sunscreen protects against
both UVA and UVB exposure. Remember to apply
sunscreen to ears and neck, and to use lip protection as
well.
On hot days, it is also important to hydrate frequently to
prevent heat stroke. Take breaks in the shade and don’t
push yourself too hard whenever possible. Use common
sense and remember that you need to pace yourself.
27
In contrast, there will inevitably be some cold and wet days during the tour. Be sure to pack the
appropriate gear for all occasions. On cold days, you may not be as thirsty, but you must force
yourself to keep hydrated.
Tour specific weather and
environmental info will be
included in a bulletin to
registered riders.
Illness
It
is
not
experience
uncommon
some
to
gastro-
intestinal problems at some
point during the first few
weeks of the trip as your
body adjusts to the new
28
food, new lifestyle and increased level of physical activity. On some of our longer, tougher
expeditions fatigue related illnesses can occur. It is important to pay attention to your body during
the tour. Work in conjunction with the staff nurse or medic and make appropriate decisions regarding
your personal health.
Injury
Saddle sores are a common problem on the
Tour and can develop after several days in a
row of tough riding. This and other problems
will be enhanced if you are not properly
washing. It is important to keep yourself and
your clothing as clean as possible. Your cycling
shorts should never be worn twice without at
least being rinsed in between use. Injuries
resulting from falling off the bike are typically
superficial abrasions and bruises. Such injuries
can be dealt with by our staff. In the event of
a more serious injury requiring hospital or long
term care the rider may be asked to leave the
tour to ensure proper recovery.
Each rider must bring and ride with a small personal first aid kit to deal with minor injuries and
ailments.
“After clearing the series of towns and getting back on the main-ish road, my odometer read
70kms and my thermometer read 41C. We had obviously missed the lunch truck – we were on
our own, lost somewhere in the Nubian Desert. We had about half a bottle between us and a
few energy bars to count as lunch. We passed by one town and searched for a drink of water
but none was to be found”
- Scott Kennedy, Tour d’Afrique 2009
29
Emergencies
The Tour will usually be within reasonable distance of a hospital or clinic. Our staff and vehicles will
respond to emergencies and transport any injured persons. In some areas we will also employ local
ambulances and emergency medical services when necessary.
In the event of an emergency, having the proper supporting documentation will ensure that the
proper care is administered quickly. Keeping a digital copy and a hard copy of your passport and
visas, your health insurance and your vaccination booklet(s) will provide a failsafe should the originals
be misplaced or lost. It is also very important to provide the tour accurate information regarding your
next of kin who we can contact during an emergency.
Registering ahead of time with your embassy in each country is also highly recommended. This can
usually be done through email. Check the websites of your embassy in each of the countries the tour
passes through.
30
What to Bring
In deciding what to bring, please use common sense and consideration for the other
participants as the support vehicles have limited space.
Our bulletins will provide details on:
A great, low-impact introduction to cycle
•
Baggage limits and inspection at the start
•
How to get your bike and gear to the start
•
How to organize your stuff on tour
•
Tour specific weather and how it relates to
touring. You're well looked after by the
group, but can go at your own pace. GREAT
TRIP friends staff and places ---thank you
- Chet Basher, Orient Express 2013
your packing needs.
Sectional Riders
Please note that the items and quantities listed below are for full tour riders. Depending on the length
of your section, you will likely need much less stuff, including spare parts for your bike. There will be a
rider update specifically for sectional riders with suggestions on how to pack.
31
Documentation and Identification
Many riders scan all their important documentation onto a computer and then e-mail it to themselves.
This way they can retrieve a printout while en route at any Internet café in the event that the
originals are lost. You should also bring photocopies of all the documents listed below. It is suggested
that you keep your valuables and important documentation in a ziploc bag or other waterproof
container. The documentation and identification that you should bring are as follows:
•
Passport with all required visas. Passport must be valid for six months beyond the end of the
tour and have 4-8 blank pages remaining.
•
Medical & travel insurance policy and contact information
•
List of your essential addresses and phone numbers
Camping Gear (for trips with camping)
•
2 - 3 person tent – something light, that packs up small (keeping in mind that on some tours
you will be living in this tent for over 100 nights. Consider your comfort as well).
•
Sleeping bag rated for 3 seasons (5 to 10C, rated to -5C for Silk Route/South America)
•
Sleeping
bag
liner
(preferably silk)
•
Camping
mattress
or
thermarest
•
Camping
dishes
and
utensils if required for
your
tour
(you
will
receive a bulletin telling
you what dishes, if any,
you need to bring)
•
Headlamp (with extra
rechargeable batteries)
•
Small tarp or groundsheet
•
5m of rope and clothes pegs
•
Duct tape
•
Repair kits for tent, poles and mattress
32
Clothing
•
3 T-shirts
•
2 long sleeve shirts
•
1 set of thermal under layers
•
1 pair of long pants
•
2 pair of shorts
•
1 fleece jacket
•
1 sun hat
•
1 pair of sandals
•
1 pair of lightweight hiking shoes
•
1 bathing suit
•
1 towel
•
1 rain jacket, windbreaker or vest
•
1 pair of rain pants
•
1 set of casual and compact dining wear
“Our camp is like a scene from the depths of Hades. A couple mounds of volcanic boulders
surrounded by more boulders and rocks with puff-adder snakes thrown in for good measure.
Now here’s the odd part: I’m in a fantastic mood. Everybody else pretty much agrees that this
was the worst road we’ve been on and I would agree. But nevertheless, I am feeling great.”
- Colin Biggin, Tour d’Afrique 2003
33
Cycle Clothing
•
3-5 pairs of padded cycling shorts
(a high quality chamois will be
your greatest asset)
•
1 pair of cycling shoes (SPD’s or a
rigid walking shoe)
•
4 cycling jerseys or shirts, 1 long
sleeved and 3 short sleeved
•
3 pairs of cycling socks
•
2 pairs of cycling gloves; 1 fullfinger, 1 short
•
1 new and undamaged cycling
helmet
•
2 pairs of sunglasses
•
1 pair of cycling pants (optional)
•
Arm and leg warmers (optional)
•
Reflective clothing
First Aid and Toiletries
We have a supply of emergency medical items that will be shared with the riders in emergency
situations. Riders should plan to have the following items in their own personal kit. Please note that
most of these items are available along the routes, so you do not need to bring enough to last the
whole tour. You kit should include:
•
Sunscreen (SPF 30 and up)
•
Aloe Vera cream (treatment of sunburn)
•
Insect repellent
•
Bandages and dressings (various sizes)
•
Blister kit or moleskin
•
Antibiotic ointment
•
Antiseptic or alcohol swabs
•
Chamois cream (prevention of saddle sores) & chaffing cream (treatment of saddle sores)
34
•
Lanoline (another good treatment of saddle sores)
•
Advil/Tylenol
•
Antihistamine
•
Anti-diarrhea medication
•
Anti-inflammatory
•
Prescription drugs as required by your doctor (bring a supply to last the whole tour)
•
Shampoo, soap, toothpaste etc.
A more comprehensive list will be sent in a bulletin for some of the tours that operate in more
isolated areas – such as the Silk Route and the South American Epic.
First Aid Kit to Carry on Your Bike
•
Wound cleaning and bandaging kit
•
Sunscreen (min SPF 30)
•
Lip balm (min SPF 30)
•
Oral Rehydration packet
•
Hand sanitizer
Other Suggestions
•
Notebook, paper, and pens
•
iPod/MP3 player
•
Extra batteries
•
Laptop/Netbook/iPad
•
Digital camera
•
Duct tape
•
Ziploc bags
•
Daypack
•
Outlet adapters for foreign plugs (varies depending on the region)
35
What NOT to bring
Over the years, riders and crew have learned what is excessive. Here is a short list of some
unnecessary equipment:
•
Cooking supplies – We cook your meals or arrange meals at restaurants on riding days and
you will find plenty of food locally on the rest days, so do not bring any camp stoves or other
cooking equipment.
•
Pillows, blankets, and giant sleeping bags – a three season bag good to 0 degrees is more
than adequate. Bulky or excess pillows or blankets will be a waste of your limited space.
•
Mosquito net – The reality is that your tent (if it doesn’t have holes) is itself a mosquito net.
•
Excess clothes – This isn’t a tour for fashion. You will get by with 2-3 sets of clothes at most.
Most of the time you will be living in your cycling gear anyway. Pack light, pack smart.
•
Camping chairs – On camping tours we provide you with camp stools. No personal camp
chairs will be loaded on the support trucks.
36
•
Hard cases –hard cases for electronics, laptops and cameras are not recommended. They are
bulky and will take up substantial space in your storage area.
•
Bike cases and bags – whether hard or soft, no bike cases are allowed on the tour. Your bike
should be packed in a cardboard box for transport on the airplane. Your cardboard box will be
disposed of before the start of your ride or given to other departing sectional riders. At the
end of the tour all riders will be provided with a bike box for their journey home.
•
Floor pumps – we supply quality floor pumps that are available to all the riders in camp. You
only need a hand pump to carry with you while you ride.
•
Excess spare parts – Many people overcompensate for the lack of spares available en route
(in Africa/Asia). Don’t go crazy with spares as they are generally heavy and bulky. Chain,
cassettes, chain rings, and other spares add up to a lot of weight. Choose wisely when
deciding what to bring.
•
Spare helmet, spare shoes – Too bulky.
•
CO 2 cartridges – It is illegal to carry these on an airplane, and these are not a practical item to
bring on tour for refilling your tubes.
•
Wheels – No rider is allowed to bring a spare wheel or wheel set. By wheel, we are referring
to a built wheel consisting of the rim, spokes, and hub.
•
Energy Bars/Drinks – On some of our tours these are provided. Check your bulletins to learn if
your tour includes energy bars and drinks. For all other tours, please remember that space for
your equipment in general is very limited, so it is not recommended to bring a large supply of
energy bars, and energy drink mix.
37
Bicycle and Accessories
Make sure you bring a bicycle that is not
only the right kind of bicycle, but also
one that is in excellent working order. If
you intend to use your current bicycle,
make sure that your bike is fully tuned,
cleaned and ready to go. If possible get
your bike shop to do an overhaul on the
entire bike three to four weeks before
your departure. Have them inspect the
drive train, pedals and bottom bracket
for wear.
“What kind of bike should I bring?”
This is easily the most common question we get asked by people contemplating a ride with us. Given
the mixture of terrain you can expect on many of our tours – from smooth tarmac two-lane roads, to
rutted and muddy tracks in the countryside, and everything in between – choosing an appropriate
bike for the tour is no easy task. Here are the three principal options, in our opinion:
Mountain bike with front suspension
A hard tail mountain bike is a great
choice for tours with mixed terrain,
as it provides suspension for the
off roads and relative comfort, and
with a thinner set of tires it also
provides a decent ride on paved
roads. The drawback is that with
smaller diameter tires and front
suspension, it will be a little
slower, a little heavier, and a little
less efficient than other bikes on
38
pavement. Having locking front suspension is useful, as you can “lock out” on the smooth roads and
engage the suspension on the rougher roads. Many mountain bikes now come with 29” wheels,
meaning the wheel diameter is larger, like a cyclo-cross bike, giving you a little added momentum on
the rough roads. This is a common choice on our most difficult tours.
Cyclocross or touring bike
This option is becoming more and more
popular
among
our
clients,
as
it
combines the ruggedness of a mountain
bike, with the speed and efficiency of a
road bike. This category also includes
some new models called gravel road,
adventure, or endurance bikes. With
slick tires these bikes are fast on the
good roads. A word of warning though!
While cyclocross/touring bikes do accommodate wider off road tires they do not have suspension,
and riders will be seriously challenged on tours with rougher off-road sections. Cyclocross bikes are
recommended for relatively fit and strong people who can handle the abuse of the rough roads while
benefitting from the increased performance on the good roads. Make sure that your cyclocross bike
can accommodate wider tires. Ideally you should be able to fit a tire that measures 700 x 40. These
wider tires will help provide a bit of comfort and traction on
the rough roads. This style of bike is a great option for our
European and North American tours as well as all our tours
that are mostly ridden on paved roads.
Hybrid bicycle
This bike has the same wheel size as a cyclocross bike, but
with straight handlebars instead of road style drop bars.
Hybrids often also have front suspension and suspension in
the seatpost. Hybrids are designed more for comfort and
leisure rather than performance, and have more of an
upright sitting position.
39
General bicycle advice
We always preach to riders that simplicity and durability are best because the availability of
replacement parts is greatly limited in most of the countries on our tours, and our mechanics will not
have some of the tools or skills to work with complex or unusual assemblies. A steel frame is
preferred (if not steel than aluminum is the best choice), with simple components, simple suspension,
and no hydraulics.
Still not sure? It’s not an easy choice, so send us an email at [email protected] and we will help
you figure it out.
If you intend on buying a new bicycle, keep in mind that there is no one style of bike that is perfectly
suited to any of the tours, but there are many that do the job adequately. The key is to have
something that is versatile, such as a touring bike, cyclocross bike or mountain bike. We highly
recommend that you don’t bring full suspension mountain bikes or light weight road racing bikes with
narrow tires. In order to make the journey enjoyable your bike should have at least mid-range
components such as Shimano Deore, or Shimano 105.
We recommend against bringing very expensive bicycles. Though rare, bicycle theft is a possibility, as
are accidents that can destroy a frame or bicycle. Bring an adequate, affordable bike that will be your
steady ride throughout the tour.
Read more on this topic on our blog
Seat
Seats are a highly personal choice. If the wrong seat is chosen, however, it is the one thing on your
bike that can make the trip very uncomfortable or even painful. We recommend that you try a few
different seats in the months leading up to the start of the tour until you find the style that best fits
your body shape and riding style. Your comfort on the seat is dependent upon four things: the seat,
the seat post, your positioning on the bicycle and the padded cycling shorts that you are wearing. It is
extremely important to take all these criteria into account when deciding on a good seat.
40
“The thorns were everywhere. Small ones like tacks. Big ones like nails. After my 10th puncture, I
stopped taking my wheel off and just nursed the slow leaks.”
- Tori Fahey, Tour d’Afrique 2011
Tires
The roads on some of our expeditions are all pavement,
though some of the pavement may be rough and we
will hit the odd sections that are under construction.
Other tours have anywhere from 10% to 40% off road.
Therefore, the most important factor in choosing a tire
will be versatility and durability. A long lasting rubber
compound, with deep tread depth and a Kevlar puncture
resistant liner is ideal. You don’t need an aggressive dirt
tread or a high-pressure, slick, racing tire. The Schwalbe
Town and Country, Schwalbe Marathon or the Specialized Nimbus Ex are highly recommended and
available in both 26” and 700C/29” diameter wheels. On some tours you may wish to bring one set of
tires for pavement sections, and a different section for off-road sections. You will receive a bulletin
containing the limit for spare tires for your specific tour.
Hydration
You should be carrying approximately 23L of water with you at all times when
riding. Whether you choose to use a
hydration pack or two or more water
bottles in cages on your bike, you must
be properly hydrated. You may also
consider bringing some energy drink mix
to add to your water bottles. Remember
you will often have opportunities to stop
during the day to purchase drinks.
41
Accessories
•
Cycling gloves (long and short finger)
•
Certified bicycle helmet
•
Cycling computer
•
Cable Lock
•
Hi visibility vest
•
Flashing red rear bike light / white front light
Spare Parts
If your bike has any exclusive components or hydraulics, you must bring the proprietary tools, fluids
and parts to fix them. If your cassette, chain, pedals and/or bottom bracket are old, you should have
them replaced prior to the tour. Before you purchase any bike parts make sure that they are
compatible with you bike. Here is our suggested list of spare parts to bring:
•
1 chain
•
5 tubes
•
3 patch kits
•
1 brake and 1 derailleur cable with the appropriate housing and ends
•
1 set of brake pads
•
2 spare spokes in each length (drive and non-drive side lengths)
•
1 or 2 sets of tires (you will receive a bulletin containing the limit for spare tires for your
specific tour.
•
1 replaceable derailleur hanger
Tools
Most of the tools needed for the tour can be found on a good multi-tool. Any larger bike tools will be
supplied by our mechanic. All that you need to bring are cleaning products and the basic tools that
you will want to carry with you while riding. Here’s a short list:
•
Multi-tool
•
Mini-pump
•
Tire levers
42
•
Chain break tool
•
Gear brush
•
Degreaser
•
Chain lube
•
Rags
Please note that you should not try and bring enough lube and degreaser to last the whole trip. There
are many places in larger cities that sell both of these items and you can restock as you need it. It will
just add extra unnecessary weight to your bag.
“TDA is a unique expedition style cycling organization. They push you to make your own
experience. They are there to support you along the way but challenge you to dig deep and get
outside your comfort zone. I experienced the highest of highs and lowest of lows but walked
away with one of the most exhilarating “rides” of my life! I learned that adventure begins when
things go differently than you planned. Thank you for creating a once in a lifetime adventure!”
- JoAnna Brogdon, Ruta Maya 2012
43
The Tour d’Afrique Foundation
The Tour d’Afrique Foundation is an integral part of our company vision. The Foundation was set up at
the same time as the Tour d’Afrique Bicycle Race/Expedition to fulfill key elements of our mission,
including raising awareness of bicycles as an alternative means of transportation and, more
importantly, giving back to the communities that we cycle through. To this end the Foundation
donates bicycles to health-care workers in various African countries, especially those involved in the
struggle against HIV/AIDS.
Every year, Tour d’Afrique Ltd., through the Foundation and its local partners, donates at least one
bicycle per full tour rider to community development and health care workers in Eastern and Southern
Africa. To date, the company has donated over 2500 bikes to various organizations and individuals.
These donations make a tremendous difference.
Studies have shown that without a bike, an
HIV/AIDS Health Care Worker may reach 60-80 individuals in a month. Depending on the local
circumstances, the provision of a bike will increase the Worker’s outreach by 3, 10 or even 15 times!
44
Providing Health Care Workers with bikes:
•
enables them to reach patients too sick to travel.
•
protects the privacy of patients who are anxious about the stigma associated with HIV/AIDS.
•
reaches a greater audience in terms of outreach and health education including other
endemic preventable diseases such as Malaria and Tuberculosis.
•
helps isolated and dispersed settlements that cannot support a clinic or health post.
•
addresses the issue of lack of mobility of residents, especially those concerning women.
Given that 70% of adults and 80% of children worldwide living with HIV/AIDS are in Africa, and given
that some of the countries that the tour passes through have the highest rates of infection anywhere,
these bikes are vital.
The Foundation also aims at promoting the bicycle as an alternative, healthy mode of transportation
that brings people closer to the workings of their bodies, and at the same time, promotes a
sustainable environment.
Rider Fundraising
“Maji Mazuri International would like to express our deepest appreciation for the bicycles
received from Tour d’Afrique. The bicycles are an invaluable resource to our work. Now, we may
more easily deliver medicines to our children at the Maji Mazuri Children’s Center. Transportation
to and from and communication with the Farm Project at Kiserian will be substantially facilitated.
The Mathare Maji Mazuri Youth Group will now be able to overcome the financial and time
constraints forthwith detracting from their efforts at community outreach and cooperation with
the larger Nairobi community.”
Throughout the years, many of our cyclists have used the opportunity to raise money for a number of
worthy causes. You can see the list of these organizations on our website. The total raised has now
surpassed US$1 Million! We encourage you to at least consider doing this. Choose a charity/NGO that
has some personal meaning to you as an individual or choose one that works in the areas of the
world that the Tour will be passing through. Contact them and see if they are interested. Many
charities are already set up to help you organize your efforts. You can also ride to raise money for the
TDA Foundation (see above). One of the rider updates will outline ideas on how to raise money.
Be a part of this fine TDA tradition. It does take a little effort but the results can be very rewarding!
45
Rider Testimonials
“It is the most wonderful thing getting up in
the morning and knowing that the only thing
you have to do this day is get in the saddle and
cycle” – Leanna Niemand TDA 2003
“There was never a day that I questioned what I
got myself into. There was never a day that I
wished I was at home in my comforts. There was
never a day that I wished this experience could be
different. There was never a day of frustration
due to misunderstandings between myself/our
group and the Tour. I will remember this journey
for the rest of my life as one of the most
remarkable experiences I have ever had. With
this, I have made life- long friends that were an
integral part of this journey. I do hope to continue
experiencing more with the Tour d'Afrique."
– Sharon McLachlan Orient Express 2009
“In the middle of the Kenyan Desert we ran into
an Austrian gentleman on a recumbent bicycle
who, when asked where he was headed, vaguely
replied ‘North, and by the way, do you have any
water?’” – Michael Coo TDA 2006
46
"Beautiful sunsets, early morning sunrises,
days of biking heaven, days of biking
chaos, extreme temperatures , different
cultures, headwinds, hills, heat, a cold
beer at the end of the day, sharing tea,
vodka & beer with generous locals, desert
camps, sore bum, bike maintenance, snow,
ice and yurts, kids on the streets, high
fives, rough and smooth roads, long days,
history, culture, architecture, generosity,
markets, food, life-long friendships - these
only sum up a small amount of the
experiences I had over the 3.5 months
which was the Silk Route – They say a once
in a lifetime trip – turns into an addiction –
I can’t wait for my next adventure!”
– Jo Demmler Silk Route 2007
“In 2011 I rode in the 8000k North American Epic from San Francisco to St. Johns, Newfoundland.
The experience was everything that I could of hoped it would be. Good staff who provided
excellent backup, a great route over differing landscapes and visiting great cities, all surrounded
by the camaraderie of the riders all with the same goal of making it across the continent. I have
come away from the ride not feeling worn out after 3 months on the bike and looking for a
break but full of enthusiasm for planning and researching for my next ride.” - Brett Lanham 2011
North American Epic
“The Doomsday trip exceeded my expectations
and was really the trip of a life time.
As I talk to my friends and look at the photos I
still can't believe I was there. You take a crazy
mix of people, the idea of riding in countries
most are afraid of, a route that is beyond
mortals and create a recipe where we all
connected and had a life experience. I
experienced things that I just can't describe and I
will always be grateful.”
– David Jones Ruta Maya 2012
47
“This was my first bike tour I was really worried I would be too slow. I was also nervous about joining
the group not knowing anyone else. I found there were riders of all speeds and I was never the slowest.
All the riders were friendly and it was easy to make friends. A number of who I am in regular contact
with. The tour staff were all fantastic, friendly, supportive, knowledgeable and helpful. The whole
experience was great. I was challenged on all levels. I got to see parts of the country and meet people
that would not have been a possibility from a car or bus.”
– Kaye Hudson
Trans-Europa 2012
"I realized early on in the tour and admitted
half- jokingly that “I’m not TDA’s
demographic.” I may have my issues regarding
some aspects of the TDA management system,
but I am certainly clear on one thing; TDA
delivered an authentically uncensored adventure
in the true sense of the word. This was the real
deal, not a phony adventure travel experience
manufactured like a neat and tidy predictable
franchise. This was an undiluted survivor series
without the film crew, the make-up artists,
stylists or script writers." - Ann Gallagher Tour
d’Afrique 2009
Thanks for reading TDA 101. We look forward to seeing you on your next tour!
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COPYRIGHT NOTICE
All material contained in this Information Kit is the property of Tour d’Afrique Ltd. and cannot be used
without the express written consent of the company.
49