On our most recent Bangkok to Phuket tour we had two riders who were doing the ride for the second and third time. Intrigued as to what keeps drawing them back to this epic 800 km ride, the repeaters told us about their experiences.
TJ cycling Bangkok to Phuket
Tinsley Janes, or TJ, a 61-year-old cyclist from New Zealand, pointed out that “It’s probably one of the best rides in the world in terms of road surface, the coast and the accommodation.” High praise from somebody who lives in a beautiful cycling country. This is TJ’s third time riding along the coast of Thailand and he’s now planning to bring his friends and come back for his fourth time next year. He said his next challenge with SpiceRoads will be up north, “I want to do Chiang Mai to Bangkok because that is downhill the entire way with tailwind, on nice smooth roads. Also Mae Hong Son Hills because that is a different dimension in cycling with the hills.” We look forward to riding with TJ again soon!
Richard in his SpiceRoads Jersey
This is the second time Richard Jones, 70, from California has cycled from Bangkok to Phuket. He told us that he came back for the same tour he did last year because it is, “A lot of hard work, no time in the van and always good guides, good food, good hotels, and always a very nice pack. So I’ve been enjoying it this second time and I might do it again for the third time.”
Richard at the Huntsman World Senior Games
He also proudly sent us photos of receiving a trophy at the Huntsman World Senior Games while wearing his SpiceRoads jersey just a few weeks prior to his departure for the Bangkok to Phuket ride. Thissenior athletic event held annually in Utah attracts 10,000 athletes who participate in 26 different disciplines. Richard participated in 7 road and mountain biking events, placing first in 5 of them and second and third in the two others. Richard has already been on 13 SpiceRoads tours and we look forward to welcoming him back again for another!
