Pedal power - Holidaymakers think 'green'

responsibletravel.com, the world's leading online directory of specialist, hand-picked holidays received an 86% increase in the number of enquiries from people looking for cycling holidays between 31 May 2007 and 1 June 2008, compared to the same period the previous year. The statistics are released to coincide with National Bike Week in the UK (14 - 22 June).

Justin Francis, co-founder of responsibletravel.com said:

"We are seeing more and more people consider their everyday transport and commuting options so it makes sense that travellers are starting to hop on a saddle when on holiday too. Cycling is a fantastic way to explore a destination. You are more likely to interact with local people and appreciate local scenery. It's also much easier to get off the beaten track by bike. Of course, it's also a much greener way to travel and a great way to work of the holiday excess!"

More bikes on holiday

An unscientific but nevertheless insightful straw poll of 100 responsibletravel.com travellers revealed that 58% of people would love to cycle more on their holidays but find that bikes are not always available. An overwhelming 86% of people said that it was the best way to explore the local area whilst on holiday.

responsibletravel.com is calling on all travel companies, however large or small, to offer bikes to customers. Francis commented: "Travellers both young and old, are telling us that whether it's a specialist biking holiday or a rented accommodation by the sea, they want more access to bikes whilst on holiday."


A bicycle made for two

When asked which celebrity they would most like to share a tandem biking holiday with, a staggering 39% of travellers said Michael Palin, with a further 20% opting for an adventurous ride with Indiana Jones. Nelson Mandela got the green light from 12% of travellers. However, green figureheads Prince Charles, Stella McCartney and Bono do little to push our pedals apparently, coming bottom of the list of most desired tandem partners.

Riding off into the sunset on a what?!

Over 64% of travellers chose the mountain bike as their ideal cycling holiday machine but the classic and traditional 'sit up and beg' bike was a popular second with backing from 19% of people.

Pack me a picnic, I'm off!

Take your pick from over 200 responsibletravel.com specialist cycling holidays at: Responsibletravel.com/cycling