Why DuVine

Adventure Biking Around the World - How to Find Insurance

Adventure biking and other extreme sports around the world are filled with fun and excitement. Unfortunately your insurance company may not share your enthusiasm about your upcoming travel plans.

Don't assume your current health, medical, life or even car insurance coverage applies outside of the U.S. Most policies exclude or limit foreign travel. It's even more difficult if you plan to participate in any extreme sports during your journey. Follow these quick tips to make sure you are fully covered in any situation.

1. Call your current insurance provider(s) to verify if your policy provides coverage outside of the country. Be sure to pay special attention to exclusions or limitations. Don't be surprised to find you have either limited or no coverage.

2. Request information about temporary insurance policies or riders that will provide coverage while you travel. Types of insurance you may need include:

• Medical
• Dental
• Life
• Driving/Car/Auto
• Emergency evacuation
• Lost Luggage
• Trip Cancellation
• Adventure sports - Special policies for divers, mountain climbers/other.

  DuVine has worked closely with Travel Insured, an industry leader in international travel. Travel Insured offers a variety of coverages available world-wide, and has been providing comprehensive benefits since 1993. Thanks to DuVine, trip insurance is easy to buy, affordable, and aimed exactly at the types of coverage our clients might need—with no unnecessary things added on and no important protections left out.

  Finally, a great resource to have available is International Association for Medical Assistance to Travelers (716-754-4883) which provides a free directory of English speaking physicians worldwide.

How to Select Bike Touring Vendors

When selecting prospective bike touring vendors it quickly becomes apparent that they are not all created equal. Here is a helpful checklist to get you started:

1. Find out how long the company has been in business.

Comparison Tip: DuVine has been in business for 12 years with a superb reputation!

2. Contact the Better Business Bureau to make sure the company hasn't received any complaints.

Comparison Tip:

• DuVine is proud to be recognized by Outside Magazine as "most delectable trips in France",

• Bicycling Magazine named DuVine a top biking vacation

• About.com selected DuVine as “the number one dream bicycle trip”

• DuVine was awarded the "Best Special Interest Product Award" at the Maison de la France annual meeting in New Orleans

• For further information visit http://www.duvine.com/press.html.

3. Destinations. Don't be limited by the touring company. Many bike touring vendors provide limited overseas opportunities.

Comparison Tip: DuVine offers 20 different bike trips in 9 different countries.

4. Access. Does the company offer full or emergency support only?

Comparison Tip: DuVine offers 24/7 support staffed by knowledgeable guides.

5. Meet the Guides. Unfortunately almost anyone can claim to be a guide. They might know a lot more about fixing a bicycle chain than the local language, wines, dining or culture.

Comparison Tip: DuVine guides are seasoned travelers fluent in the local language and customs. They also know their wine, cuisine, art and history to make your trip enjoyable.

Luxury Bike Tours

To some people a bike tour means nothing more than a long weekend, rusty bicycle, sleeping bag and a stop at the local convenience store to fill up a back-pack with junk food. If that isn't quite what you had in mind for your dream vacation then take time to check out DuVine’s luxury bike tours or use our luxury comparison checklist to get started.

With a DuVine bike tour you can expect...

Deluxe accommodations including beautiful villas, authentic castles and out of the way villas replete with private bath, gardens and patios.

No need to try to plan around the tour guide - pick the plan that works best for your schedule and desired location. Unlike some providers that rarely travel outside the states, with DuVine you have your choice of 20 trips in 9 different countries; one of the most versatile and widespread in the industry!

DuVine guide - experience beyond the bike. Our guides are experienced travelers with a full knowledge and appreciation of the local customs and language as well as wines, cuisine and culture unique to each area.

Reputation. DuVine has over 12 years of experience as a recognized leader in the field.

Attention to Every Detail. DuVine handles as much or as little of the travel planning and preparation as you desire down to every detail. Let our expert staff assist in creating the perfect bike tour for two or twenty.

Planning Self Guided Bicycle Trips

Planning Self Guided Bicycle Trips isn't all that difficult with the help of DuVine, but before we start planning, think about the following:

1. Know your personal fitness level. If you are traveling with others then plan your trip around the person with the least endurance or fitness level to ensure everyone is able to maintain the pace without stress or increased risk of injury.

2. Don't assume you are fit - test it. Even if you routinely participate in other athletic or sporting events make sure you are ready to tackle the proposed self guided bike trip. Biking is different than running, swimming or other sports so even if your lung capacity or muscles are fine, be sure your backside or other body parts are ready. Rent a bike and take it out for a few long rides.

3. Know your destination. Brush up on a few words in the local language and use a bit of foresight about local customs and manners. Excellent resources for prospective travelers are Culture-grams. These short pamphlets provide quick tips about 150 countries and are available by calling the David Kennedy Center at Brigham Young University (800-528-6279).

Private Bike Tours

The decision to select a private bike tour isn't always easy, but with DuVine you can rest assured that every detail of your trip will be meticulously addressed whether it is a private party of two or twenty. Private bike tours are the perfect way to celebrate, collaborate or just have fun for:

• Friends, Family or Couples that desire an exclusive experience without going it alone
• Business or Corporate Outings
• Incentive Travel
• Group Building Activities
• Special Interest Groups desiring a special area of emphasis
• Media Journalist or other Professionals requiring expert guidance and support

Whatever your reason or need, DuVine is able and willing to provide full support. DuVine is an acknowledged and award-winning leader that stands out from the pack when it comes to service and experience.

To plan your perfect private bike tour, use our helpful checklist below and then call to speak to a DuVine representative today.

1. Estimated number of participants
2. Destination
3. Estimated duration
4. Desired outcome (leisure, education, group building, etc...).
5. Unique/Specific Instructions
6. Special Needs

Solo Travel Survival Guide

Self guided bicycle trips are an excellent option for those seeking a flexible schedule and independence, but knowing your personal limitations becomes more important than ever for solo travelers. DuVine provides full preparation and planning as well as support throughout your vacation. Use these handy tips to recognize when it's time to slow down or take a little break.

• Drowsiness. Yawning, jet lag and a slight reduction in energy level may indicate a need for additional sleep.
• Sun or Wind Burn. Both fatigue the body and decrease energy so take proper precautions by wearing sunscreen, hats and a light jacket to reduce the risk.
• Muscle Exhaustion. Cramping muscles are no fun. Take time to stretch, drink plenty of fluids and reduce your pace or duration as needed.
• Soreness. If it's been a while since you've had a good workout then a little soreness may be natural, however, soreness can also result from improper posture, poor shoes and other problems. Stretching, proper equipment, the proper shoes and even a good night’s rest can work wonders.
• Heat Fatigue. Heat fatigue can lead to serious problems especially when high temperatures are combined with high humidity. Don't allow yourself to over-heat; maintain proper hydration and take periodic breaks if you are not accustomed to the heat and humidity of the area.
• Hypothermia. Hypothermia is a medical emergency brought about when the body cannot sustain its own temperature. Insufficient clothing, rain and high elevations may increase the risk.
• Dehydration. One of the most easily avoided problems is by far the most common. Pay attention to your fluid intake.

Women Solo Travel Tips

DuVine specializes in planning and preparing every detail for self guided biking trips in Europe or elsewhere throughout the world. As more women become involved in adventure biking, there has been a corresponding increase in the number of self guided or women solo travel. If you are a woman who is new to solo travel or self guided bike tours then the following solo travel tips might come in handy.

1. Personal planning and preparation. While DuVine makes arrangements for your trip, begin making arrangements for your pets, houseplants, mail and other property while you are away.

2. Dollars and Sense. A little common sense goes a long way when traveling solo. Whenever possible access your need for money as you go rather than carrying large amounts of cash. Credit cards, ATM and pre-paid credit and/or traveler's checks are all viable options.

3. Passport. If you don't already have a passport you will need one. Obtain an application at any passport agency in larger cities or online at the U.S. Department of State site. It can take up to two months for first-time applicants so apply well in advance of your intended travel dates.

4. Visas. Not all destinations require a Visa. If you aren't sure ask your DuVine representative or check online.