Most Inspirational Moment
It's difficult to pick one because there were so many outstanding experiences. Swimming in the Pacific and Caribbean on one holiday is pretty amazing. Cycling in the Highlands away from much of the traffic on smooth roller-coaster roads was a different experience entirely from cycling in Britain. For me though the most inspirational aspect was the abundant and colourful birdlife in the gardens surrounding the Highland hotels and lodges and in the national parks; I came back with scores of memorable photographs.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Roberto is simply outstanding: inclusive, encouraging, challenging, firm, well-organised, flexible, safe, and both passionate and knowledgeable about his country and what it has to offer the rest of the world. After a few days there was a tremendous team spirit in the group (one of the best I have experienced) and in no small measure this was due to Roberto's personal qualities and his fantastic sense of humour and fun.
Advice for Potential Travellers
As there are several transfers between cycling sessions, it's a good idea to have a small bag you can keep on the bus so you can refresh sun cream, change out of cycling shoes for food stops etc. The Pacific part of the ride is incredibly hot: make sure you have more sun cream than you would expect to need, and use it. Don't take dollars: use the local currency, as the informal exchange rate in shops and restaurants for dollars is poor and you get change in local currency anyway.
Suggestions
Some of the hotels are a bit basic (of necessity due to their scarcity in some of the places through which the route goes): don't expect hot water in basins (or even in the showers sometimes). The food is excellent. On the road, in the brilliant lunch stops chosen by Roberto, the meals can be surprisingly inexpensive but very filling.