Norman and Reiko, our ground team in Japan, share some insight on a tasty favorite of locals and international tastes alike – tempura! Its roots dating back to the 16th century, tempura was introduced to Japan from early trade and Jesuit missions by the Portuguese. From there, it became a staple food item. Norman gives us more backstory and a quick and easy tempura recipe below for you to try at home.

Tempura is eaten year-round. The menu changes with the harvesting of seasonal/ regional vegetables. It is said that the deeper you get in the mountains the more variety of vegetables and plants are battered and fried. We like Asian pumpkin, sweet potato and prawns.

Japanese food is on the top of many people’s list of favorite Asian cuisines. Cooking this food at home can seem like a lot of hard work, but this easy home recipe includes everyday ingredients you likely already have in the house. It can be made and used in no time. The trick to the batter is to keep it cold. Here is an easy guide to follow. Give it a try!

Tempura Recipe

Ingredients

• cold water 100ml
• cold beer or Japanese sake 100ml
• 1 cold egg
• 1 cup regular (light if possible) baking flour 180cc, sifted
• vegetables and/or seafood of your choice
  
  

Instructions:

1. Lightly mix ingredients together (except for the vegetables and seafood) being careful not to over mix it. It is ok to have some lumps in the batter. If you live in a hot climate, use a double bowl with ice in the bottom bowl and batter in top. Keep the batter as cold as possible. The batter consistency should be light and watery when it’s ready. 
   This is all you need to make the Tempura batter!

   Hint: You can adjust the batter thickness after a test fry, by adding a touch more flour (thicker coating) or water (thinner coating), just remember to keep it cold!

   

2. Heat your favorite cooking oil* to 180C in a fryer or deep frying pan. *Keep in mind that olive oil is not suitable for frying due to its low smoke point
3. Cut vegetables, prawns (shrimp) or fish into bite-size pieces.
4. Dip them in the batter one at a time and lightly deep fry it in the oil. Take it out before the color starts to change. Lightly salt after frying.

Tip: For a special twist, mix Matcha (green tea) powder and salt to use as a side topping when serving.

Troubleshooting: If the batter is not crispy to your liking then check your oil temperature is high enough, and make sure the batter has not warmed up. A batter can be stored in the fridge if needed, but ideally should be used soon after making.

And that’s all you need to make great Tempura! We hope you give it a try at home.

~Norman & Reiko

Take this easy recipe and enjoy some Japanese traditions at home! Check out these 18 tempura ideas for great vegetable and seafood options in your recipe. For more great recipes from Norman, read his Home pizza project article. Enjoy the cooking!

Are you keen to taste Japanese food first-hand? Work up an appetite, while exploring the country’s culture and cuisine, on our immersive Japan cycling tours.

The island of Jeju, off the southern coast of the Korean peninsula, is teeming with natural and cultural treasures for visitors to explore. Don’t underestimate the modest size of ‘South Korea’s Hawaii’, which still manages to contain 3 UNESCO heritage sites and a range of natural highlights to enjoy from surf beaches to evergreen forests. The locals pride themselves on their unique cultural heritage and the natural beauty of the island, and their wish to preserve it is evident, with the population owning nearly half of all Korea’s electric cars! While a popular place for domestic travel it is still blissfully low on the radar for foreign visitors, giving you the chance to explore somewhere that feels like it’s yet to be truly discovered. If you’re curious to delve a little deeper, below are our top 6 highlights of Jeju Island, Korea.

Korea’s Last Mermaids

The Haenyo, literally translated as ‘Sea Women’ of Jeju are a unique group of female freedivers who fish the island’s ocean waters without the use of modern equipment. The women formed the backbone of what became a semi-matriarchal society on the island, and are hailed as one of Jeju’s most valued treasures, UNESCO has also recognized them on the Intangible Cultural Heritage List. But in modern times their numbers are dwindling as young women pursue alternate careers. Now at least 98% are over the age of 50, leading some to dub them the Haenyo Grandmothers. Despite their age, those remaining can still be spotted diligently fishing along the coastline and selling their catch. If you love seafood, this is as fresh as it gets, and you are sampling a unique and important part of Jeju’s cultural heritage.

Seongsan Ilchulbong

Quite possibly one of the most scenic locations in Korea, Seongsan Ilchulbong also called ‘Sunrise Peak’ is a UNESCO-listed site on the western tip of Jeju Island. The striking geological feature was caused by an undersea eruption that left a 180-meter high volcanic crater, known as a Tuff Cone, on the ocean’s edge. It’s possible to hike to the top, an accessible 45-minute walk, to enjoy spectacular 360-degree views over the island and ocean. As the name suggests, starting early to catch the sunrise from the peak is a truly magical and unique experience.

Oedolgae Rock

Oedolgae or “Independence” rock is a freestanding rock formation just off the coast of Jeju. Known as a Sea Stack, this impressive testament to nature towers 20 meters out of the sea, separated from the surrounding coastal cliffs, which offer an ideal viewing platform. Located in the islands south it is free to visit, easily accessed via a short walking track, and photogenic day-round, but we would recommend early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and catch the best light.

If the weather is nice and sea is calm then the nearby Hwanguji Natural Pools offer an additional opportunity for a scenic swim.

Jeongbang Waterfall

While Jeju boasts many waterfalls, if you choose to visit just one, this should be it. Located in the south, not far from Oedolgae Rock, you’ll find Jeongbang Waterfall. What makes this spectacular 23-meter high falls extra special, is that it cascades from an oceanside cliff-top into a rocky sea cove below. A set of steps make it possible to descend into the cove for a front-row view of this natural marvel, and the chance to grab some holiday snaps. The most spectacular viewing is when the water volume is flowing strongest, but you’ll find it a photogenic stop year-round.

The Manjanggul Lava Tubes

Yet another UNESCO site! These fascinating geologic phenomena are formed by flowing lava leaving behind cave-like tunnels, and at Manjanggul you’ll find some of the largest in the world, at up to 20 meters wide and 30 meters high! The well-lit tubes can be easily explored on foot without the need for special equipment, and while exploring the tunnels you can learn first-hand about the volcanic history of the island. With all the interesting outdoor activities Jeju offers, this is an interesting option to change things up and try a bit of underground activity instead.

Jeju’s Bike & Hike Circuits

Last but certainly not least, for those who want to get beyond the main sites and really explore the full beauty and diversity of this island there is Jeju’s bike and hike circuits. Both routes circumnavigate the island traveling through forests, farmland, villages, and of course by Jeju’s many beaches. 

The Olle Trail is Jeju’s popular hiking route, its own Camino of sorts, covering 425km of connected trail around the island, split into 21 main routes and 5 sub-routes. It’s a well-organized trail with its own official website, and walkers can purchase a special ‘passport’ to collect stamps at stations along the journey. The Olle Trail was named one of the 10 Best Coastal Walks in the World by Active Traveller, the only country from Asia to make the cut.

The bike circuit is a more recent addition and is sometimes unofficially referred to as the ‘Bike Olle’. Completed in 2015 it covers 234km, over 10 connected stages which range in length. It mostly follows bike lanes along the coast, and like the hiking trail, there are also stamps to collect at stations along the journey as a souvenir from your ride.

If you are interested in exploring these highlights of Jeju and more, by bike and foot, but would like the local insight of an expert guide and the convenience of a fully supported tour, take a look at the Korea & Jeju Island Adventure, an 8-day exploration of the island and southern mainland peninsula.

Welcome to another installment of the “Life Behind Bars” series – handlebars of course! A chance for you to meet the team behind the magic.

While your Tour Leader is going to be the most obvious touchpoint when exploring a new destination, there is also a small army of people working behind the scenes to help bring your experience to life; and a crucial part of that team are our Destination Managers. In every country it’s important to have a key person, with boots on the ground, to help coordinate tour activities, hotels and guest support; and Vinoli is that ringleader in Sri Lanka. We had a quick Q&A, so you can discover a little more about her and the place she calls home.

The view from World’s End, Horton Plains

Hi Vinoli, a quick background for readers, what was the journey for you to begin working in travel, and what do you enjoy most about it?

For over 5 years I worked in the banking industry but I was never really truly passionate about my work – my real passion was travel. One day I decided I was fed up and thought, “why shouldn’t I work in the travel industry and follow my passion?” so I changed my career. My first stop was working for a local travel company and I handled inbound tourism and airline ticketing. From there I went on to work in the hotel industry before landing my dream job at Grasshopper. I started as a tour coordinator and after a few years with the company was promoted into my current role as Destination Manager. I love to work in this industry because I love to travel and explore more elements of my country – I’m very fortunate to have traveled widely across Sri Lanka and appreciate how diverse and amazing my country is. 

Let’s get into an interest point for many – What are your top 3 places to visit in Sri Lanka?

1. Horton Plains (pictured above), it’s not everyone’s favorite but it is mine by far! The mist fields, excellent hiking, amazing views (if you manage to avoid the fog) and of course the deer. 

2. Wilpattu – This national park in the western part of Sri Lanka is the place to go if you want to spot the famous leopards!

3. Galle Fort – Chilled and cosy and multicultural, what more can I say?

When not exploring your own backyard, what have been some of your favorite destinations outside the country?

Chiang Mai! [Thailand] White Water Rafting in the mountains on the outskirts – amazing!
Siem Reap! [Cambodia] I visited Siem Reap for work and did a fantastic tuk tuk food tour and of course the amazing Angkor temples.
Singapore – my best friend lives there – party time!

The new happy family

Not so long ago you had your first baby, how have you found being a new mother and balancing that with a career?

To tell the truth it’s actually a bit stressful, but covid has actually given me more time to spend with my baby and to learn from other new mums, and of course get help from my husband Thiwanka! With the reduced work there isn’t much to balance, but the flexibility of working with Grasshopper and being able to do much of it from home really couldn’t have come at a better time! 

A slightly more somber question. The Easter bombings in 2019 followed by COVID the year after have been devastating on the Sri Lankan tourism industry, how have you seen the county cope, and what is the path looking like to recovery?

Small businesses have been particularly affected with little time to rebuild before the two key events. On the positive side, most of the people are now trying to buy local and support our fellow Sri Lankans. So locals are traveling within Sri Lanka to support the travel industry and help it survive. The road to recovery is starting, but the road will be long as we rebuild trust with local communities to welcome guests again and break down the thinking that visitors are a risk to health. That said, the vaccine program is already well underway and many of us lucky ones in Sri Lanka between 30-60 have already been jabbed, it’s a start and we are making good headway in that space.

Delicious Sri Lankan Crab Curry

Back to a personal question – Food for many (us included!) is a big priority on any trip, how would you describe Sri Lankan cuisine, in general, to a would-be visitor, and what is your favorite dish?

Spicy to sour to sweet you can have it all in Sri Lanka but spice is the word. In one plate you will get all the flavors you could imagine. A simple chicken curry and rice never tasted so good! 
My favourite dish without a doubt is: Coconut sambal, Chicken Curry, or Crab Curry with rice or string hoppers!

Active adventure is a big part of what we do at Grasshopper, but when traveling personally what do you like to do on vacation?

Hiking is my absolute favorite. My husband and I have explored many corners of our country and hiking has always been central to this. My other passion is exploring new accommodation properties, with my favorite being small boutiques, villas, and cozy places. I’m always on the lookout for the best for our customers! 

If you had to choose between beach, rainforest or mountains what would be your first pick to visit and why?

Tie between rainforest or mountains, because I grew up next to the beach so I like to do something different when traveling. I love to be surrounded by trees and nature, and where better to do that in the rainforest and mountains? Or better still a rainforest in the mountains!

Laid back Negombo Beach, Sri Lanka

Pre-trip, what question do you most often get from incoming guests and what would be your response? 

Whether to stay in Negombo or Colombo on the first night. To keep things simple if you want a relaxed, quiet hotel stay and enjoy the beachside sun – Negombo is where you want to be
If you prefer to explore historic sites, city culture and the hustle and bustle of a capital city Colombo is the right choice! 

After visiting Sri Lanka what is the most common highlight you’ll hear from guests about their experience? 

The challenging yet rewarding cycles. All our Sri Lanka tours hold some sort of challenge – but in Sri Lanka challenge usually equals huge rewards whether that is a stunning view or picture-perfect hotel lodging. Challenging cycles get you there, so they are always the biggest highlight. 

“Bangkok… It’s a special part of my life”

Once international travel restrictions have improved, where will be top of your list to visit and why? 

Australia – to visit my boss Jake (if he is there!) & my brother who both live quite close to each other coincidentally. En-route I’d transit via Singapore to meet my bestie and on the way back via Bangkok, because I feel it’s a special part of my life – for a reason I can’t quite put my finger on.

In February Sri Lanka launched an innovative plan to kickstart travel and welcome international visitors again. How has the success of that program been?

It has been successful and importantly it’s a start. The next step is the government is now trying to bring down the quarantine from 14 days to 10 days. There have been many people who have visited, but the cost is still quite high, there is no denying that. But if you want to travel it’s an investment you won’t regret.

Aberdeen Falls in the district of Nuwara Eliya, Sri Lanka. Just one of the many waterfalls in Sri Lanka.

Final question – What is a hidden or little-known highlight of Sri Lanka that might surprise readers, or even us for that matter?

Sri Lanka has over 400 waterfalls! Waterfall hunting is a highlight for anyone! 

Thanks Vinoli! 

Like to know more about Sri Lanka? Try some of these articles:

• Top 5 historical sights in Sri Lanka
• Wildlife spotting in Sri Lanka
• Is traveling Sri Lanka safe?
• Cycling in Sri Lanka – The time of my life
• Beyond the highlights of Sri Lanka
• Biking across hill country – Sri Lanka through my eyes

Keen to visit Vinoli and the team? Take a look at our Sri Lanka tour collection

Maybe one of you is invigorated by cycling the backroad trails, while your partner prefers exploring historical architecture and the local markets. Have you been considering a family cycling trip but some members aren’t so keen to spend it on two wheels? We’ve curated our Bike & Boat tours to fit dynamics just like this and created adventure tours that include everyone. The resulting guest responses are overwhelmingly positive. Photo above: Mixed group on our India – Bike & Boat the Brahmaputra tour

Factors like the addition of a dedicated non-rider guide, the convenience of a floating hotel, and the option of an e-bike’s extra boost, all contribute to a highly flexible tour. There’s no missing out, only an emphasis on activities you each enjoy most. Here are a few of the ways you all can be equally delighted on the same Grasshopper tour.

Guests and dedicated guides on Mekong Bike & Boat (left) and India Bike and Boat the Brahmaputra (right)

Dedicated Non-Rider Tour Guide

As always, our local guides are exceptionally informed and passionate about sharing their home culture. The non-rider guide focuses specifically on leading your discovery and exploration in activities off-trail and in the towns and cities. Any special visits the cyclists make, non-riders will meet up to join as well. All of this paired with the fun and easy-going personalities, typical to our guides.

We embark on the Toum Tiouv along the Mekong Delta, from Vietnam to Cambodia

Floating Hotel

The charming cruise ships that accompany our Bike & Boat trips are a special factor in comfort and flexibility. While the riders commence their next riding adventure, the ship maneuvers along the river to the next meetup point. This allows non-riders the alternative of lounging on deck with a drink and a book, enjoying the passing scenery. The boat crews are comfortably hospitable, ready to take your order, schedule a massage, or leave you space to relax.

Learning from Sculptor workshops in Cambodia and Mask-making shops in India

Flexibility to Ride or Not

All riders have full flexibility to join the ride on particular days, only for partial routes, or pass altogether. A support vehicle is never far away from the cycling route and ready to meet up at a moment’s notice. You can be whisked away to your hotel or on to another activity.

Our choices are top-quality e-bikes, specifically suited to the terrain

E-bike Power

This fantastic invention has changed the game in cycle touring. You can go farther, and experience more with less effort. Every pedal gets a significant boost, up to three levels. This makes winding hills and catching up to the group after stopping for that great picture, a piece of cake. Get to the destinations with plenty of energy left for really taking in the place and culture. Needless to say, this can make a ride that seems daunting to a non-rider, a real possibility. The E-bike is a great equalizer – allowing riders with different levels of ability to maintain the same pace. Read more on why E-bikes are a fantastic option.

Jan, Maxine and their guide Chet alongside the full Mekong Bike & Boat group

A Guest Experience

Jan joined our Mekong Bike & Boat tour as a non-riding family member. Her sister and brother-in-law are avid cyclists and have joined multiple Grasshopper tours. Everyone was able to have a fantastic and memorable time. She highly recommends these adventure tours for families with varying interests. She was delighted to share a bit of her perspective with us:

“It was a fun experience for me! I did not feel left out or in any way less of the group. I enjoyed being able to go off sightseeing with our tour guide… It was fun to meet up with the riders at various points throughout the day, sharing snacks and conversations with them as to what we had both seen. There was another non-rider, Maxine, and we hit it off instantaneously! Which was another plus for me in that I had a travel companion as well throughout our days of sightseeing.”

Thailands Bike & Boat tour cruises along on the RV River Kwai ship

Learn more about our Bike & Boat trips on our website. Adventure in comfort and style along India’s Brahmaputra, the Mekong of Vietnam & Cambodia, or on Thailand’s River Kwai. Hope to see you and your group soon!

Living in the Mekong region for several years, I’ve enjoyed a variety of fish and one of my favorites is fried Red Snapper. It’s very crispy and has a mild balanced flavor which never disappoints. If no Red Snapper is available it can be interchanged with Red Tilapia for similar results. Thailand, Vietnam, and Korea each have their own delicious variation on the dish, often served with either a chili, tamarind, or a soy-based sauce glaze. Below are the recipes for these tasty sauces to enjoy with fried red snapper.

First we’ll cover how to fry the fish for maximum crunch! This method can be used for all three styles. Then choose a sauce to make from either Vietnam, Korea, or Thailand. For a true Mekong-style serving, present the whole fried fish on a bed of lettuce. Spread the sauce over the top of the fish and enjoy along with jasmine rice!

Fried Red Snapper

Ingredients:

1 large or 2 small Red Snapper (or Tilapia)
oil for deep-frying
salt
flour

Instructions:

Prepare the fish before by cleaning it and drying it with a paper towel. Score fish along both sides. Lightly salt both sides and inside the scoring. Prepare flour on a plate or in a bag and bread the fish evenly on both sides.

Add the fish to heated oil (350F/175C). Fry for 6-8 minutes on each side, until golden brown. Avoid turning many times and try to turn only when ready.

For a mix of salty and sweet, try the Vietnamese Soy Sauce Glaze

Vietnamese Soy Sauce Glaze (Nuoc Tuong)

Ingredients:

2 tbs oil
2 garlic cloves, chopped
1 knob ginger, finely chopped
2 tbs soy sauce
1 tbs fish sauce
2 tbs sugar
1 tbs oyster sauce
1/4 cup water

Directions:

Fry garlic and ginger with the oil until fragrant. Add sugar, oyster sauce, soy sauce and fish sauce and continue stirring. Add water and cook for another 30 seconds.

In this video, the fish is breaded in a bag and fried as mentioned above (minus msg and pepper). Then at the end, the delicious soy sauce is made and added for a scrumptious presentation.

Korean sauce (Gajami Yang Nyeom)

Ingredients

1/4 cup of soy sauce
3 chopped green onions
2 chopped garlic cloves
1 green chili pepper
1 tbs hot pepper flakes
2 tsp sugar
1 tbs sesame oil
1 tbs sesame seeds

Directions:

Simply combine all ingredients together and coat the fish before serving!

Watch this video for a play-by-play on this delicious recipe. With a peppy fun personality, the Korean chef prepares this in a kitchen from Mexico. But she easily finds all the ingredients she needs for a recipe just like home.  

Thai Tamarind sauce (Pla Rad Prik):

Ingredients

2 oz of tamarind
1/2 cup boiling water
3 pieces coriander and root
10 red chilies
1 whole bulb of garlic
1/4 cup palm sugar
6 tbs  sugar
3 tbs fish sauce
1/4 tsp salt
2 tbs oil reserved from fish fry

Directions:

Pour boiling water over whole tamarind in a large bowl stir and set aside until cool enough to agitate by hand. Squeeze to separate seeds from skin and release flavoures. Strain this mixture and reserve the liquid.

Combine coriander, chili and garlic in a blender and process into small chunks. Fry this mixture with oil until fragrant.

Add your 1/2 cup of tamarind water along with sugar, fish sauce, and salt to the skillet. Bring this to a boil then reduce heat for 1 more minute. Serve on top of fish and garnish with coriander leaf.

This Thai chef shows us how to make the recipe. She deep-fries without flour —another option! Enjoy her professional straight-forward approach as this spicy tamarind sauce is prepared.

With these traditional tastes of Asia we hope you’ll try them each and find a favorite! Whether you prefer salty, sweet, spicy, or all of the above, this selection gives you a good range for enjoying fried Red Snapper multiple ways. Let us know how it goes!

Food is a highlight of all of our tours. Planning for 2021 and beyond? Check out our tours in Vietnam, Thailand and Korea and taste the flavors first-hand. 

I’ve written before about the limitless reasons you should travel to Japan and explore it by bike, but with an e-bike in particular the experience expands. The pedal assist allows you to move at a more consistent pace, so in turn, you can take more time soaking up the fascinating cultural and visual highlights of a visit. But there’s a host of other reasons why an e-bike and Japan are so well suited, so I’ve shared them below along with some extra insight into touring Japan and e-bike touring in general – Here are my 9 reasons to explore Japan by e-bike on your next adventure.

Yamaha E-bike used on Japan tours

How does an e-bike work?

First, let’s clear up what I mean by e-bike. It’s a bicycle that looks and mostly feels like a regular bike, but it’s not quite. It has a lithium battery and a small electric motor integrated into the pedal/crank assembly which adds to the power output on your own pedal stroke, so no pedaling, no momentum. So it doesn’t do all the work for you, a frequent misconception, it simply augments what you put into the bike, thus making you go faster than you normally would for the same amount of effort. The power assist is also adjustable, so you’ll still getting a good workout on the lowest setting, and if you struggle a bit on hills, then the higher assist settings can be very useful. 

E-bike through Japan’s meticulously kept streets, and lush forests

It’s also important to know in this article I’m referring mostly to a dedicated e-bike tour of Japan, where everyone else in the group is also on e-bikes. Originally, Grasshopper Adventures introduced e-bikes as an option on regular tours and this option still stands. But then we got to thinking about the game-changing capabilities of e-bikes and realized that there was an incredible opportunity to use this technology to create a better tour for everyone.

Now I’ve clarified these points, allow me to share these 9 reasons as to why it’s a fantastic idea. 

Matsuyama City

1. You have more time to explore this exquisite destination.

Because everyone in the group is riding an e-bike, you can all achieve a similar average speed. The bikes are limited to 19 mi/30km per hour, so that’s the top speed people will be riding on the flat or uphill sections of the road. When descending, those who are more confident will move faster, but that doesn’t have a big impact on average group speed. 

Kengo Kuma’s public library

You can expect to ride at an average speed of 25-28km per hour (15-17mi), so a door-to-door ride from the exciting city of Matsuyama to the charming little mountain town of Yusuhara, is only going to take you around 3.5 hours; and that includes the intriguing stops along the way. So in turn, when you arrive in Yusuhara you have the whole afternoon to explore. This means more time to enjoy Kengo Kuma’s beautiful library (pictured), sip a pour-over coffee from a barista who takes it all very seriously, or soak your bones in an authentic outdoor onsen. It’s not like you are rushing the ride experience, there is still plenty of time to stop, chat, take some photos and enjoy the company of your fellow travelers. It’s just that you move a little more quickly and consistently, arriving earlier at your destination.

2. You have more energy & recovery time.

Japan is a hilly country and if you aren’t riding those hills on a tour, then you aren’t on the best tour in Japan. What this does mean is that there are days when your legs are a bit jelly-like after the ride and the next day you can be feeling a little stiff. With an e-bike, even if you push hard on a low assist setting, the shorter ride time means you have plenty of additional time in the afternoon and mornings to recover, and you’ll find the overall tour a lot more enjoyable. 

Enjoy hills with ease through beautiful forested terrain.

You’ll have the extra energy to spend your afternoon visiting the Ikuo Hirayama Museum of Art in Setoda. Here, this most celebrated of contemporary artist’s work is showcased, including pieces depicting his journeys on the Silk Route. You might also explore the interesting Gojo Onsen area of Matsuyama, a city of half a million people that you’ve likely never heard of. How you make use of this extra time and energy is obviously up to you, but there is no shortage of things on which to use it. 

 Japan’s delectable cuisine sits at your fingertips

3. You can still eat, plenty!

A big part of any visit to Japan is the food. The good news is that even on an e-bike, you are still getting a great workout and need to fuel that. After a ride you’ll want to enjoy all the great cuisine Japan has to offer, including the most amazing Sushi and Sashimi you will ever have the opportunity to eat. To say that the Japan e-bike tour has a strong food emphasis would be a mild understatement. You will fall in love with the culinary side of Japan just as much as the cultural side. If you would like to know more about the local cuisine, check out these 7 foods you must try in Japan!

More time to stop for photos with no catch-up stress

4. You can catch up after a photo quicker.

We’ve all been in that situation. There’s a great scene to snap a photo of, but it’s your sixth photo stop of the day. You’re pretty tired of playing catch up with the group so instead choose to skip the shot. Well, that’s not an issue with e-bike tours in Japan. Go ahead and capture that memory from your tour, then just flip the pedal-assist setting to the highest and easily cruise back to the tail of the group.  

A variety of cycling skills can be combined

5. You and your travel partner can comfortably ride together.

E-bikes have been called the great biking equalizer. They provide the opportunity for people to ride together when they might not ordinarily be able to do so. My wife, Marie, and I are a prime example of this. Marie is a good rider, but there are a bunch of factors on my side that make me a much faster rider. This leads to obvious differences when we are touring together. About a year ago, we bought a couple of e-mountain bikes and started riding those on the weekends. I can have a cruisy ride on the lowest setting and Marie can hold the same speed on the next setting up. It’s been so much fun being able to comfortably ride side-by-side again and enjoy a chat while we do.

E-bikes are common transportation for daily use in Japan

6. You are in good company.

E-bikes have actually been a thing in Japan for a lot longer than most parts of the world. They were designed for short-distance travel — commuting in a city or dropping kids at daycare, doing the shopping, that sort of thing. What this means is that as you are humming along on your e-bike, you’ll be meeting lots of other people going about their daily lives. You can all exchange a knowing look that you have graduated to the future of bike touring.

Washi paper-making

7. Absorb more culture.

Visiting the studio of the foremost authority on the art of Washi Paper and then actually making the stuff yourself is quite a special experience. The pace of an e-bike tour means there is no rush, you get to really absorb the story of Washi Paper, and also of Rogier himself, the locally based aficionado. As a Dutch national, he calls Japan home after being captivated by Washi Paper many decades ago.
This is just one example of how a faster ride makes for a slower move through the cultural connection of a tour. 

Less vehicle transfer means more time to explore

8. Less vehicle transferring.

Because the group is traveling at a more stable, more predictable pace, we can plan distances better, and on long days you can cover the distance with confidence.  While there are lots of variables that impact the range of e-bikes, you can comfortably cover up to 90km on a battery. As a result, there isn’t much need to transfer by vehicle and that’s great. Let’s face it, sitting in a van in your riding gear is not something you do unless you have to. 

But just because we can cover longer distances doesn’t mean we do. We recognized that this game-changing technology could be put to better use giving you more time to enjoy destinations, forgo van transfers and make the most of the extra opportunities.

Pristine roads snaking through incredible terrain

9. The routes and roads of Japan are world-class.

The quality of the roads is really a great mystery in some ways. The population density in some areas we ride is probably not sufficient to warrant a high level of road investment. But the layers of government in Japan continue to maintain even seldom-used roads to an incredibly high standard. The routes this makes available to us are just incredible. You can ride through the mountains and along valleys where you might see a car once every 20 minutes, but you are riding on silky smooth tarmac with ample shade overhead. 

The big thing is the topography. It’s absolutely stunning. The winding climbs are breathtaking and the descents are just so much fun! On an e-bike, you can really enjoy this riding every day without becoming excessively fatigued.

Bask in the renowned politeness and hospitality of the Japanese people

Beyond the gorgeous landscape, culture and food, the other experiences never cease to amaze. Encounter spiritual wonders like the 88 Henro Temples and indulge in the calming sense of peace and order offered by the Japanese people, alongside great consideration and kindness.

If your next adventure is about inspiration via beauty, culture, connection and giving yourself the time to take it all in, then Japan is the place and e-bike is the way!
Learn more about our Japan E-Bike Tour.

Our big wide world is full of variety and ready to be explored! But before you jump in the saddle for your two-wheeled adventure make sure to prepare for the journey ahead and local conditions in your chosen destination. To help you along we’ve polled our team with many years combined experience, and asked them what they would consider useful to bring on most cycle tours. Some may be familiar, others easily overlooked – Here are top 10 essentials to keep in mind when packing for your next bike tour. 

1. Sun Protector Sleeves

Our Guide Heang recommends riding with sun sleeves, these sleeves protect your arms from the sun and if made with quick dry material actually have a cooling effect as they wick away sweat. This saves you from applying sunscreen multiple times a day. There is nothing worse than re-applying sunscreen mid-day to then have sweat and dust stick to your arms. Cambodia has some beautiful hard-packed red dirt roads, and although we all love to ride them, at certain times of the year they can get dusty.

Grasshopper: Mr Heang (Guide, Cambodia) | Favorite Tour: Cambodia Bike, Hike & Kayak

2. Chapstick (Lip Balm)

This handy essential will assure your lips remain cool and collected throughout the ride. A wax-based balm is excellent to keep away chapping in the cooler climates like on the Alaska & the Yukon Bike and Kayak Adventure. The stick versions are easy to carry and quick to apply. Our team member, Christie, adds that it also gives protection from the steady breeze, which you can’t avoid when cycle touring. She suggests choosing a variety made of beeswax and with SPF protection for the best results. Her preference — Burt’s Bees! Add an extra couple of dollars and go organic to treat your lips to an array of oils and vitamins (coconut, avocado, jojoba oils, shea butters, and vitamin E for starters), and maybe avoid the tastier kinds or you could find yourself licking it away and risk chapping after all! 

Grasshopper: Christie (Communications & Tour Host) | Favorite tour: Mekong Bike & Boat

3. Wear-Over Shorts

Cyclists and lycra (spandex), it’s a notorious combo, and in most instances we say live and let live. But there are some touring locations, especially in rural Southeast Asia, where it pays to err on the side of modesty. For example, some remote villages in Myanmar are more conservative than others. The last thing we want to do is shock or disrespect our local hosts, especially in one of the many beautiful temples and pagodas we visit on tour. Wearing some light running shorts over your cycling shorts is a modest compromise and also adds a few handy pockets. Alternatively, if you prefer to ride in lycra only, roll up some lightweight running shorts and store them in your jersey pocket to throw on as needed.

Grasshopper: Nay Thway (Guide Leader, Myanmar) | Favourite Tour: Cycle Inle to Bagan

4. Riding with Clipless MTB Pedals and Shoes

Riding with clipless pedals (shoes attached) can increase your efficiency, power, control and comfort on the bike. This is great for touring, but it’s very important to choose the right combination of pedal and shoe. Mountain bike specific pedals (like SPD, Crank Bros) offer durability, easy entry/exit and some movement in the pedal. This can ease stress on your knees on rougher terrain.

Road bike and some mountain bike racing shoes have very stiff soles and no tread for traction. Both of which can be dangerous when cycle touring as you are on and off the bike a lot. Make sure that your clipless compatible shoes have ample tread that provides grip and a little flex in the sole. This means that you can comfortably walk around off the bike without looking like a baby deer on ice skates. Photo stops and sightseeing become a far nicer experience! If this is your first time using clipless pedals, please practice cycling with them, clipping in and out. Doing this before the tour saves you from the embarrassing stationary falls that we have all experienced! 

Grasshopper: Adam Platt Hepworth (CEO) | Favourite Tour: All of them!

5. Microfibre Neck Tube

These light-weight neck tubes are incredibly versatile. This was demonstrated best in China. Our “Yunnan Bike Tour” tour starts up in the Tibetan foothills of Shangri La where temperatures can get quite chilly. Wearing one of these tubes helps keep you warm by keeping wind off of your neck and face (when pulled up over your nose). In some of the busy cities, dust can be a problem and this item made a great dust mask. In the southern lowlands, the neck tube came into use again keeping the sun from burning your neck and wicking away sweat in a cooling action. They can also be worn under the helmet to help absorb sweat. 

Grasshopper: Tim (Guide, China) | Favourite Tour: Yunnan Bike Tour of China

6. Hydration Backpack

The importance of water can never be understated. Carrying enough of it and remembering to drink it, though, can be challenging. It’s easy to forget as time passes and you don’t always feel thirsty as dehydration gets closer. Countless riders have sworn by the convenience of having a water tube on hand via hydration backpacks. There’s no need to stop or even slow down to grab a water bottle. You’ll likely drink more water, conveniently sipping away as you enjoy the ride or stop to explore. On our Tasmania Bike, Hike and Kayak tour, you can stop off to visit the Mclachlan sculpture studio, salmon farms and more without having to remember to grab your water bottle. Reservoirs in the packs can hold up to 3 liters, though a popular size for cyclists is the 2 or 2.5 liter. Cycling-specific hydration packs have a more compact style and low profile for wind resistance and comfort.

Grasshopper: Jake Stalker (General Manager) | Favourite Tour: The Bangkok to Saigon Explorer

7. Ziplock Bags

Across all of our tours, we provide optional Ziplock bags. These simple items are just the right size to store your wallet or phone or camera (or a combination of these) to be stashed in your cycle jersey pocket. In some of our tropical destinations like Taiwan, you don’t want a light rain to dampen the enjoyment of spectacular views. Being re-sealable keeps the dust and dirt out as well as making them waterproof, but more importantly “sweatproof”. This stops your valuables from getting ruined while riding in hot, wet, or dusty conditions.  

Grasshopper: Tot (Operations, Taiwan) | Favourite Tour: Bike Taiwan  

8. Power Bank

We all love taking photos on tour and the quality of our phone cameras makes it the most used item for the job. The only issue is mobile devices have multiple jobs and short battery lives. Packing a small power bank with you on tour means that you can charge your device while away from a power source in the middle of the day, or in remote locations or during a power cut (known to happen in parts of South East Asia). Don’t miss a fantastic shot by running out of battery!

Grasshopper: Pleng (Tour Operator, Thailand) | Favourite tour: Cycle Bangkok to Phuket

9. Windproof Vest (Gilet)

Laos can be hot, hilly and subject to tropical downpours. You find that 2 minutes after putting on a typical waterproof jacket, you are wetter inside than out due to the humidity and hard cycling. Windproof vests (like Castelli brand pictured) made of water-resistant materials are lighter, more packable and cheaper than jackets. Being sleeveless, they also breathe better! They keep the heavy rain off of your core, yet let your arms get wet and be cooled by the rain. Usually, they have a mesh back that helps you cool down. These are perfect for the mountains of Laos and other areas subject to tropical rainfall, providing a balance of weather protection and breathability. 

Grasshopper: Touy (Guide & Operations, Laos) | Favourite Tour: Lao Lao – Bike tour of Laos

10. Handlebar Bags

We provide handlebar bags for all of our guests on tour. Some customers choose not to use them, which is not a problem. But while cycling on our Sri Lanka by Bike tour, we see a lot of wildlife. Being “wild” the animals do not usually hang around posing for long, especially when they catch an eyeful of brightly colored cyclists! So having your camera or phone up-front helps your chances of capturing those magical, fleeting moments… and proves that you really did see that Purple-faced Langur swinging through the trees! 

Grasshopper: Nishan (Guide & Naturalist, Sri Lanka) | Favourite Tour: Sri Lanka by Bike

We hope you found some of our bike touring essentials handy enough to include on the packing list for your next adventure! Our experience on the road has shown these small additions can help keep you comfortable and prepared, enhancing your overall touring experience – It’s why we provide some of them on our trips! Whatever your packing list entails, we hope you are ready to enjoy the adventure and look forward to seeing you on the trail!

Sometimes the cycling mood calls for low-key effort and the ability to slow down and appreciate your surroundings. In other cases, it may be your first bike tour or you are still building the confidence to move from beginner rider to intermediate or advanced cyclist. Whatever the case may be, several of our tours are crafted with just this type of adventure in mind. Casual riding is particularly accessible with Grasshopper Adventures, due to the range of countries and terrains our tours cover. This can be further extended with the use of e-bikes in what were previously more demanding locations. If you are looking for just such a trip in the year ahead, you might be surprised by the variety of bike tours available for casual or first-time bike tourers. Here are our top picks for 2021:

E-Bike Tours

Let the power of electric-assist ease your mind and preserve your energy to better enjoy your end destination. Our e-bike specific tours enhance the touring options for any level of cyclists. This makes sure everyone is on the same playing field. Pedal-assist helps you comfortably cover longer distances in a shorter time. That puts more focus on enjoying the surroundings and less on the effort.

Japan E-Bike Tour

2021 is sure to be a special year for Japan, with the Olympics leading the charge. The beautiful island tour of Shikoku covers a variety of incredibly diverse and scenic landscapes, and you can appreciate it up close and personal when cycle touring. On the e-bike you can enjoy more compact ride days with plenty of extra time to experience the daily destinations. We make the most of that extra time to appreciate sacred temples, amazing food, hot spring baths, ancient castles, sake breweries and all the full-on hospitality of Japanese culture. The Japan E-bike Tour is the perfect adventure in Japan for those wishing to enjoy a less strenuous ride or guests new to cycle touring.

Vietnam E-Bike Tour

The geography of Vietnam is endlessly stunning, not to even mention the food and culture. But, this beautiful landscape can sometimes be intimidating to the first-time tourer or those seeking an easy ride. This E-bike grand tour encompasses the highlands of Vietnam, famous beaches like Quy Nhon, and winds up in the heritage-listed town of Hoi An. The pedal assist allows you to cover a satisfying amount of distance while making the most of the daily destinations. Experience Vietnam’s rich customs and ancient culture first-hand without hesitations.

Bike & Boat Tours

If there was ever a tour that successfully combined a variety of travel, activity, relaxation and comfort — Bike & Boat tours are it. Experience your destination, up-close via bicycle and then cruise in calm tranquility on your floating hotel in the afternoon. These tours include a short and long ride option each day, or optional walking tours for anyone wanting to break from the bike. This is also perfect for noncyclists who wish to join the trip as well.

Mekong Bike & Boat Cruise

This trip that got popular fast! The Mekong Bike & Boat tour combines the best of both worlds, exploring by bike or foot, while cruising the Mekong River and Delta region. From lively Saigon to Siem Reap, the home of Angkor Wat, take in the unique cultures and delicious local cuisines. An excellent tour option for the casual rider or starter cyclist looking for flexibility in their tour experience. Spanning two countries, you’ll cycle through almost entirely flat terrain during the day. Each evening you’ll return to your cabins of comfort and style.

> Discover more about Bike & Boat trips.

Muli-Active Adventure Tours

A particularly unique part of our new North America and Australia tours are the active adventures that happen beyond two wheels. We keep the intensity of cycling lower so you’re fresh and ready to enjoy kayaking, hiking or maybe even a seaplane flight!

FLORIDA EVERGLADES & KEY WEST MULTI-ACTIVE ADVENTURE

Starting in the world-heritage Florida Everglades then to Key West and beyond, the Florida Everglades & Key West tour is an exciting combination. Explore multiple exquisite water systems through many forms of active adventure. Your comfortable cycling experience begins in the exotic wilderness of Shark Valley. You’ll airboat into the Everglades and kayak through historic mangroves, before returning to the bikes to cycle across Florida’s scenic Overseas Highway. The optional extension provides a truly unique experience, with a seaplane flight to the Dry Tortugas National Park where the renowned Fort Jefferson awaits, surrounded by majestic coral reefs ripe for snorkeling.

TASMANIA BIKE, HIKE & KAYAK

“The Tasmanian way of living” alludes to the experience of getting away to the island state, and living in both nature and the moment. On our Tasmanian Bike, Hike & Kayak tour, we facilitate a connection to the natural surroundings, local artisans and a fresh perspective of this wild and beautiful place. You’ll cycle the gentle backroads and trails of the island’s northeast, exploring wineries, galleries, oyster farms and more. A hike brings us to Wineglass Bay, the dolerite peaks of Cape Raoul and we top it all off kayaking the stunning waters of the Tasmanian peninsula.

Slow, Scenic & Beyond

Some of our tours are perfect for casual riders or novice tourer, simply because you can take it slow. In the following tours, there is so much to absorb and indulge in that a beginner’s pace just makes sense. Enjoy the varieties of terrain, the incredible changing landscapes and, of course, the food. They offer a perfect union of pleasure-seeking, adventure and active exploration.

East Taiwan Self-Guided

A cyclist’s dream, the island of Taiwan has show-stopping trails with an amazing network of local cycling support. Our self-guided tour is probably more suited for moderate to intermediate riders, but the self-guided style lets you take it at a casual pace desired. This tour provides the structure of a carefully crafted route. It starts through the famous Taroko Gorge (but, downhill of course!) and on to the East Rift Valley. We provide an audio guide that suggests excellent eateries and tucked away must-see stops that help you connect with locals. The cycling follows well-made roads, gently undulating along until just one steep but short ascent. This is rewarded with a long descent over the gorgeous Coastal Mountain Range. An amazing way to seek out your own adventure!

Cruising the Coast to Samui

What’s not to love about this tour? The price, the beach, the achievability, the delicious food and we haven’t even mentioned the riding yet! Follow the southern coastline of Thailand, biking through back roads and National Parks to experience a relaxed and fun connection with the locals. You’ll cycle primarily flat terrain with the occasional small hills and an air-conditioned support van is always accessible if you feel like a break. On our Cruising the Coast tour, spend five fantastic days exploring the Gulf of Thailand on two wheels and soaking in the Thai culture at a pace that works for everyone.

With a selection like this, casual riders or first-time bike tourers can find their niche in a beautiful location in 2021, while enjoying the full experience of a Grasshopper-quality tour. Get a boost from E-bike technology, cruise along the river between rides, or take a slower pace through especially breath-taking scenery — or all three! Whether your style is to go simply by bike or take on a variety of activities, there is something suited for your active adventure pleasure. Feel free to check out the tours above or contact our team to help you choose the best fit.

Less than 500km long and only 150km wide, Taiwan is the definition of small but beautiful. This tear-drop shaped gem in the Pacific is packed with surprises encompassing everything from neon-clad 24-hour cities to East Asia’s highest mountain, the world’s deepest marble gorge, and tropical beaches & jungles. In addition to the sights, it’s home to intact Chinese and indigenous cultures, delicious and wonderfully diverse cuisine, and some of the friendliest and most hospitable people you’ll ever meet.

For riders, a tour in Taiwan has always offered the chance to cycle spectacular roads with so little traffic it seems they were built exclusively for cyclists. And then to end your ride in comfort, a hearty bowl of noodles and a soothing hot spring.

Sound good? Well now, after a year like 2020, there are even more reasons to cycle Taiwan in 2021.

Grasshopper ground team, Simon, Tot (not pictured) and their daughters

1. The Year of Bicycle Tourism

As environmental sustainability and green issues move closer to the front of everyone’s minds, cycling is the perfect way to experience a country. On two wheels you can enjoy a pace that affords the chance to see real life up close and personal. Cycling as an activity and as a  responsible form of tourism also remains safe in terms of social distancing. In response to this, the Taiwan Tourist Bureau has designated 2021 as the Year of Bicycle Tourism. This means there will be even more cycling events than normal, and more bike infrastructure developed.

2. Taiwan’s Safety

Taiwan remains one of the safest countries in the world in terms of Covid-19. Whilst being less than 200 miles from the outbreak’s epicentre of Wuhan, it has recorded less than 1,000 cases. It had only 1 domestic case since April 2020 and just 7 deaths. The emergence of SARS in 2002 was an early warning for Covid. It predisposed both the government and the Taiwanese people to minimize the impact of a highly contagious respiratory disease. Aside from a pre-emptive school closure back in February 2020, there have been no lockdowns. Life on the island has continued very much as normal.

Cycling Taroko Gorge

3. Convenient Cycling Routes

Recent improvements in the transport systems have made it quicker to get around this small but incredibly rugged island. As a fringe benefit, this has left some spectacular roads as perfect cycling routes. A new tunnel through the southern mountains has made the final day of our Bike Taiwan ride, which was already a cracker, even better.

4. Ready for Guests

Domestic tourism has boomed in Taiwan’s Covid-free environment after a year of no international visitors. However, once it is deemed safe to open up, the incredibly friendly and helpful people of this island will be keener than ever to welcome people from around the globe.

Enjoy endless stunning views

5. Top Quality Bike Manufacturing

No lockdowns have meant no factory closures and so Taiwan has continued making bikes throughout the pandemic. The island remains one of the world’s biggest quality bicycle manufacturers, home to Giant amongst others. Picking up a bike during your time here can offer both great choice and value.

Grasshopper Taiwan exclusive and delicious Energy Bites

6. Tasty and Nutritious Cycling Snacks

Even better — cycling snacks! In the absence of cycling tours with overseas guests, the Taiwan team used this unprecedented opportunity to fulfil a life goal. We set up “Bamboo Bakery” with a focus on local, healthy, natural ingredients. Going forward, riders on our 2021 tours will benefit from even more delicious and nutritious cycling snacks, including our sell-out Energy Bites.

This is just a handful of reasons to cycle Taiwan in 2021, if you’d like to know more check out article on why we love riding in Taiwan, and maybe when you consider active travel this year it will be on the list! Also check out our bike tours in Taiwan for more ideas on what that could look like for you. Take care and we hope to see you on the trail soon.

With what could best be described as a disastrous year for travel almost behind us, and with the glimpse of borders gradually opening again on the horizon, 2021 offers a tempting range of options for scouting your next active adventure. The last year has left us all a bit travel-starved, and there were moments for some when even a trip down to the local park was a luxury. So we all deserve a bit of escape, and as the situation gradually improves what better way than to start surveying locations for your next expedition. To help you along we’ve compiled a list below of some our own top locations for active adventure in 2021.

Kyoto in Autumn

JAPAN

Known for its impeccable hospitality, Japan’s deeply embedded culture and natural beauty create an unforgettable experience.

SUMMER OLYMPICS

Japan sits at the top of the list with a lot of excitement surrounding the Olympics. The event happens in Tokyo during July and August, though, which is the peak of their summer season (reaching 30.8C/88F). The thrill of the show may just be worth the heat! These Summer Olympics will have new sports making their Olympic debut to include karate, sport climbing, surfing, and skateboarding.

MESMERIZING KYOTO

The spring apple blossoms and fall autumn foliage in Kyoto are renowned for their stunning beauty. Spring months are March-May while the season of Autumn encompasses October-November. This former capital holds numerous UNESCO World Heritage sites as well as some of Japan’s more formal traditions to include Kaiseki dining. Kyoto happens to be one of our favorite cities to tour by bicycle!

SHIKOKU

Speaking of cyclists, Shikoku boasts a special place on many a cyclist’s bucket list! Just a short ride from the industry lies this island wonderland. Famous for stunning scenery, its well-maintained roads invite you off into rich evergreen forests, over wild rivers and through tiny towns with numerous breath-taking panoramic views. If a visit to Japan interests you, check out the tours we offer here.

THUỶ NGUYỄN in ‘An Everyday Dream’, an exhibition by Factory Contemporary Arts Centre

VIETNAM

Beyond the amazing cycling, delicious variety of foods, including legendary Bahn Mi, there is much to stimulate your creative side along with tranquil waters and unique countrywide transportation. 

FLOURISHING CONTEMPORARY ARTS

The art scene of Vietnam is flourishing, specifically Ho Chi Minh City! What was once a scene of artists reflecting much of what they saw in Western works, has revolutionized. Contemporary Vietnamese creations now fill private spaces, employ curators and hold regular exhibitions. Sophie’s Art is one curator offering resources, talks and tours about Vietnam’s visual culture. One of our favorite sites is the Factory Contemporary Arts Centre featuring a range of current artists like fashion designer, THUỶ NGUYỄN in ‘An Everyday Dream.’

HA LONG BAY VS LAN HA BAY

The UNESCO-recognized waters of the Gulf of Tonkin feature emerald waters and towering limestone islands, split by an invisible line creating two distinct travel zones: Ha Long Bay and Lan Ha Bay. The more widely acclaimed Ha Long Bay offers a wider selection of sailing options. Its neighbor, Lan Ha Bay, is more secluded and tranquil with fewer tour boats and still quite new to the public eye. Both destinations a must-see pre or post-tour. Let our travel experts help guide your choice!

VIETNAM RAILWAYS

Go by train! Lonely Planet describes the Vietnamese railway system as “ageing but pretty dependable… and a relaxing way to get around the nation.”

Having ridden the rails in Vietnam, we can attest to  a truly unique experience with trains both timely and accommodating. What you might not know is that private companies offer accommodations in comfortable private carriages attached to the back of some trains. For the most comprehensive information we recommend the website “The Man in Seat 61”. Our join our Highlands and Coast tour  which includes a day trip by rail up the coast from Nha Trang to Quy Nhon.

Considering exploring Vietnam with Grasshopper? Here are our tours that include Ho Chi Minh City and beyond. 

Sea Kayaking offshore of Acadia National Park

NORTH AMERICA

The northernmost states of America and on into the Yukon of Canada sit quietly amid the limelight of desirable travel destinations.

MAINE

It’s not just lobsters and blueberries that make us miss Maine -(but don’t forget the lobsters and blueberries)! Ninety percent of the state is blanketed in forests, nowhere better represented than Acadia National Park, thick with trees, mosses, ferns and flowers. On our Coastal Maine tour you’ll experience Maine’s forested beauty kayaking offshore from Acadia, cycling its famous Carriage Roads, and viewing sunrise from Cadillac Mountain.

ALASKA & THE YUKON

The largest protected wilderness area in the world forms the backdrop for three days of cycling on this adventure. The scenes of towering mountains, flowered valleys, alpine forests, and rich wildlife cannot be understated. The days of the Klondike Gold Rush come alive in Whitehorse and the tribal dances of the First Nation Chilkat people bring an appreciation for their reverence of the land. Our tour starts in historic Skagway on the White Pass & Yukon railway, considered one of the world’s most brilliant feats of railway engineering. 

FLORIDA

The wild spaces and wildlife of the Everglades make for a destination like no other in the world, all less than an hour from the Miami International Airport! Our expert guides and naturalists have worked overtime to create a day of complete immersion into the authentic beauty and native cultures of this unique ecosystem. You’ll be left wondering, how have I traveled around the world and never seen the Everglades. That experience only to be topped by a sense of wonder after cycling Florida’s Overseas Highway to Key West. Lots to think about while sipping cool drinks to Caribbean sunsets.

Learn more about our active adventures in Maine, Alaska and Florida on our website.

Jiiufen Old Street, Taipei, Taiwan

TAIWAN

There are many reasons that Taiwan ranks number one of the top-searched destinations on Agoda. The combination of natural beauty, sought-after cycling, active adventures and cultural immersion provides an experience like no other. 

CYCLISTS DREAM

2021 is the Year of Cycling Tourism in Taiwain. Known as the Bicycle Kingdom, Taiwan is home to big bike names like Giant and Merida and boasts island-wide cycling excursions. The cycling Route No.1 encompasses the full island divided into 12 unique routes. The more leisurely and renowned Sun Moon Lake cycling route stretches to 29km and is listed in the best 10 cycling routes by CNN Travel. The pathways for exploring run the full gamut, from brief excursions to pro biking.

TAIWAN LANTERN FESTIVAL

Celebrated across the country and a big draw of international interest, the Taiwan Lantern Festival includes the Pingxi Sky Lanterns in the north and the Yanshui Beehive Fireworks Festival in the south. The Beehive Fireworks consists of a procession of palanquins through the town, arriving at location where a fuse is lit and thousands of rockets ignite at the same time. The sound is bee-like and fills the air with sparks called a “baptism of fireworks”. 

TAROKO GORGE

An incredible sight, the world’s deepest marble gorge forges its way through the Central Mountain Range via the Liwu River. Accessible by bike (of course), bus, scooter or taxi, the sheer number of breathtaking views may just slow your trip. Plan ahead! The prestigious international King of the Mountain (KOM) annual cycling race takes place here. Our Eastern Escape tour takes in the same exhilarating route with significantly less effort – think decent not ascent! 

Check out more of our Taiwan tours here.

Longboat in Bangkok waterway

THAILAND

RIVER & CANAL BOATS

Few cities around the world offer the full extent of river transportation that Bangkok does. Via riverboats or smaller canal boats (for the more adventurous), attractions and most parts of the city are accessible inexpensively. Less than $1 will get you not only transportation but a first-hand view of the city’s skyline and neighborhoods. Watch for the Chao Phraya Express Boat with the orange flag and its daily service from 6am-10pm for $10. Some of Bangkok’s most noteworthy attractions are right on the banks of the Chao Phraya River. Four of those include Wat Pho (Temple of the Reclining Buddha), the Grand Palace, Wat Phra Kaew (Temple of the Emerald Buddha), and Wat Arun. Also, a new electric boat service has started on a canal near the train station.

LOY KRATHONG FESTIVAL

This is Thailand’s Festival of lights and almost always this time falls on the month of November.  It’s known as Loy Krathong, literally “float a water lantern”, by most of the country. In the north, the celebration is Yee Peng, “the second full moon”. According to location lanterns are either released into the sky or set afloat down the river. As Buddhist merit-making festival, the magical moment before releasing the lantern is a time to reflect and pray on new beginnings. Check our article on the best places in Thailand to experience Loy Krathong.

THAI FOOD

It’s possible this can be left unsaid, as many mouths have already started salivating at the mention. But let’s reflect anyway. CNN Travel states that “Thai dishes take 4th, 5th and 6th places in the listing of the world’s best foods” in a recent (2020) poll. Tom Yum Kum soup placed 4th with its coconut milk base and combination of 4 famous Thai flavors: salty, sour, sweet and spicy. The staple Phad Thai took the vote for 5th place. This classic dish is the cause of long, winding dinnertime lines at renowned street food vendors like Thipsamai on Maha Chai Rd in Bangkok. Som Tam Papaya Salad brought in 6th place, with its much sought-after sweet and sour combination of shredded green mango. 

Check out some of our top tours to discover Thailand Grasshopper style.  

Bunya Mountains National Park

AUSTRALIA

The dates that Australia will open its doors again are unknown and this is one reason we created our newest tours here. Please allow us to simply say, our tours are a fantastic reason for Aussies to explore the hidden sites in their own backyards. Here the best active adventures are compact, covering less ground on tour, which allows us to slow down, take a closer look at an area, immerse ourselves in the natural environment and enjoy fresh air away from major centers. 

BIKE, HIKE & KAYAK THE NOOSA & HINTERLAND

The incredible diversity of southeast Queensland beckons you! The rustic Brisbane Valley allows a traffic-free cycle ride through tiny towns once connected by railway. The Bunya Mountains hold ancient stories, connecting the giant Bunya Tree nuts to indigenous peoples with immense significance. And have you seen the Noosa Everglades? This beautiful waterway is one of only two such systems in the world and host to a huge variety of birdlife. Our tour covers all of this and so much more, with time to enjoy the service of excellent hosts and appreciate the skills of artisans. More on our Noosa & Hinterland tour here.

NOOSA BIOSPHERE RESERVE 

A place where nature and people live as one, sustainably and intentionally, with amazing results. The Noosa Community has a rich history of preserving its natural beauty and cultural heritage. This balanced relationship was internationally recognized in 2007 and designated a protected Biosphere by UNESCO. Visit the Noosa Biosphere Project website for the projects completed, like the Noosa Trail Master Plan of eight intersecting hinterland trails. Many more projects are in development. Whatever the choice of activity in this innovative area, you can feel the connection to nature permeate everything. 

TASMANIA

From its 55 waterfalls to the dolerite cliffs of Cape Raoul, this island offers a retreat with a truly unique wilderness. Freycinet National Park is home to Australia’s most iconic species and an internationally top-rated beach in the world, Wineglass Bay. Beyond beautiful, Tasmania includes a tap into Australia’s history at Port Arthur and a plethora of foods unique only to this island. Read more on some culinary secrets straight from Tasmania. For more details on discovering Tasmania with Grasshopper, check out our Multi Active Bike, Hike & Kayak Tour.