Most Inspirational Moment
We were there to celebrate our 25th anniversary. One evening, our guide, Michele, showed up in a convertible VW decorated, and two glasses of wine, and drove us to a place to snap a picture, one where he went on his own wedding, and then to join our group for a great dinner. This gesture, the thought, time and effort, simply was the icing on the cake.
Thoughts on Group Leader
If you can go with Michele, go. Organized, friendly, knowledgeable about the route, the history and group dynamics, all will feel welcome. You can turn off your brain, relax and take in the scenery knowing that he can and will look after anything that comes up. As wonderful as the trip is, the group members and the guide really determine the outcome. We lucked into a great group of fellow cyclists and a wonderful guide.
Advice for Potential Travellers
For long haul travellers coming into a place like Venice and landing in the morning, it is probably worth getting a hotel near Marco Polo Airport and going to relax there while waiting to meet the others. The airport is very congested, under construction and it is not a great place to spend the day waiting.