 |
 |
 |
|
TIPS AND ADVICE |
|
Biking the French AlpsA bicycle tour in the French Alps is one of the premier cycling vacations for adventure travelers around the world. The scenery is only surpassed by the thrill of personal challenge as you experience one of the most well known cycling routes in the world, and then relax each evening in luxurious accommodations.Biking the French Alps can be as intense or relaxed as you desire but for those seeking a semi tour de france bike tour, it’s a good idea to understand intensity levels. According to cycling legend Greg Lemond, training at various intensities is critical to reaching full potential. 1. Low Intensity. The endurance stage is where your heart rate is approximately 65% of maximum. You should be able to sustain this level almost indefinitely. 2. Light Intensity. Heart rate is 80% to 90% of maximum. You should be able to sustain this for at least 30 minutes. 3. Average Intensity. Heart rate is 90% to 100% of maximum. You should be able to sustain this between 4-30 minutes. 4. High Intensity. Maximum heart rate. You should be able to sustain this between 2-4 minutes. 5. Maximum Effort. 100% heart rate this is sustained for only 10 to 25 seconds. France Travel TipsImagine taking a bicycle tour in the French Alps or one of the bicycle tours in Bordeaux and then meandering through castles, stopping for a picnic complete with wine tasting in world famous vineyards or just relaxing in the same countryside that has inspired artists and poets for centuries. There is a reason France is the most visited country in the entire world! This and much more are awaiting you during the DuVine bike tours in France. Here are the facts about travelling through France:When to travel. France is a great year-round destination although spring is by far the most popular season. Entry Requirements. To enter France you will only need a passport valid for three months beyond the intended date of departure. Visas are not required unless remaining longer than three months. No special vaccination certificates are required. What to pack. If biking France in the summer months, plan for the occasional insect and plenty of sun. A waterproof jacket and warm clothes are advised during the colder months. Language. French Health Risks. France is considered a very safe and healthy travel destination with no major health risks reported. Money Matters. All major credit cards are accepted. ATMs are common and currency exchange facilities are available in most airports/hotels. The Euro is the exchange currency. Time. France is +1 hours ahead of GMT. Paris is 6 hours ahead of EST. Driving. The French drive on the right side of the road. Guidebook LimitationsA bicycle tour in Provence France allows one to participate in the simple pleasures that so well define the region. But don't confuse simple pleasures with the idea that navigating your way through Provence France - or anywhere in France - is easy. Here are some common guide book limitations and corresponding reasons why taking a DuVine guided tour or self-guided tour will fill in the gaps to assure your vacation is filled with the simple pleasures you desire.Guidebooks are not current. The very act of writing, publishing and then distributing the information takes time. Guide books are meant to be general guides so don't plan on the information being up to date. Guide books are limited. They are designed to appeal to the greatest number of potential visitors so it’s rare to find border cities or those small out of the way places mentioned. A DuVine tour guide is an expert at providing intimate knowledge and familiarity with the surroundings whether you go with a group or on a self-guided tour. Paid Placement. This is a major consideration when reading guide books or travel guides - increasingly the only mention is for those hotels, restaurants or attractions that paid to have their information included. Things to Love About FrancePlanning a bicycle tour in Burgundy or just a casual tour through France? Whatever your final destination, here’s why you will love France.The Food. Of course French food is legendary for its flavor (and calories) but don't worry about indulging because you will bike the excess right off. A DuVine bike tour is the perfect guilt-free way to enjoy authentic French cuisine. The Drinks. Not just the wine but be sure to try the beer! Although French wine gets all the attention, those who enjoy a bit of ale will be pleasantly surprised to learn the French have a lesser known—albeit highly popular— following among ale enthusiasts. The Architecture. Unlike the English version of proper architecture, the French seem to take pride in their ability to embellish every square inch of a surface with intricate details. The Love of Biking. Perhaps the number one reason to enjoy France is the national preoccupation with all things biking! What better reason to select a DuVine bike tour through France than to visit the cycling capital of the world. Top Ten Loire CastlesA bicycle tour in Loire is sure to delight; it’s considered by many to be the most beautiful area of France. One of the region’s most well-known claims to fame are the magnificent chateaux to be found throughout the area. Bike tours in the Loire Valley became extremely popular in 2000 when the Loire valley became a World Heritage site thanks to the "must see" collection of castles and historical architecture.According to UNESCO, the most popular castles in the Loire Valley - and top destinations on any itinerary - include: Chenonceau, Chambord, Ambroise, Azay-le-Rideau, Blois, Villandry, Langeis, Chaumone-sur-Loire, Usse and Chinon. Travel Tips to RememberBicycle tours in France are becoming ever more popular as people enjoy the great outdoors, simple pleasures and elegant cuisine of the French countryside. To take advantage of fine wine and biking here are a few tips you may not have thought of when planning adventurous bike tours in Provence, France.
|