Vacation is about freedom — freedom from routine, constraints, and imposition. A cycling vacation also includes freedom from highways, gas stations, and bus schedules. Consequently, before committing to a biking vacation tour operator, you need to be sure you're in good hands — in the care of people who know how to respond to your needs, cover your expectations . . . and grant you your freedom.

Hit the road

It goes without saying that when planning for and booking a bike trip, there are plenty of details to take into consideration. After all, not all people's needs are alike. Similarly, tour operators cater very carefully to select groups. Cooking over a campfire and waking to morning dew sounds like torture to some; but a castle's plush comforts and gourmet dining are not always ideal to others.

Thinking about what you want when you ponder your freedom can be very important, as can knowing what questions to ask when querying trip operators. GORP's Bike Touring Primer is designed to help you review your options as you hone in on your choice destination and the way in which you will enjoy it. There are things to think about before you select your destination and tour operator, things to do after you make your decision, and, of course, hints to help you make the best of your cycling adventure.