A Unique Start from Atlanta

On that rainy day in Atlanta, my girlfriend Lyn suggested an exciting idea: "How about we go on a bike trip together?" Seeing her less-than-enthusiastic expression, I quickly realized she wasn't keen on the adventurous rides I often enjoy. I've been cycling for over a decade, but this time, I decided to do things a little differently.

Since moving to Atlanta in 2015, my first bike ride along the Silver Comet Trail opened up a whole new world for me. I went with a few friends, using borrowed bikes and pretty basic gear. It was a challenging experience, but also incredibly fun and exhilarating. The sense of freedom while cycling captured my heart.

Stepping into the World of Bikepacking

I sought out a community, and upon returning home, I discovered Radical Adventure Riders, a movement that brings together cycling enthusiasts. I joined and, just a year later, along with some friends, I helped establish the Atlanta chapter - Radical Adventure Riders ATL (RAR ATL). We organize monthly rides and bike maintenance workshops.

RAR is not just a space for cycling; it's a welcoming and safe environment for everyone, especially the LGBT community. I've always wanted to create a judgment-free zone where people can learn and support one another.

Before each trip, I always research the queer-friendliness of the destination. Luckily, Croatia has protections in place for the LGBTQIA+ community. We felt comfortable expressing our affection openly and faced no issues from the locals.

Challenges and Joys on the Cycling Trail

In Croatia, our diverse group of eight came together from various parts of the U.S. and Canada, each with different cycling experiences. I became the moral support for the beginners, reminding them that they were entirely capable of overcoming challenges. There were tough climbs, but reaching the summit and witnessing the breathtaking views made all the struggles worthwhile.

One memorable climb was on Hvar Island, where I faced a challenging 10-kilometer stretch with an elevation gain of 560 meters. Lyn struggled a bit, but I was right there beside her, cheering her on. When we reached the top, the stunning scenery made all the hard work fade into the background.

Attention to Detail Throughout the Journey

The great thing was that Intrepid handled all the logistics for the trip. This allowed me to focus on enjoying the experience without worrying about the details. Our local guide, Davor, taught us a few basic Croatian phrases, helping us connect better with those around us.

Davor was not only knowledgeable about cycling but also well-versed in the regions we traversed, from Dubrovnik to Split, making for an interesting and enriching journey.

Relieving Stress on the Trip

Along the way, I realized that not having to stress over logistics was a huge relief. This trip provided a balance of challenges, adventure, and relaxation time. I found opportunities for both physical activity and downtime, something I had been missing in my previous vacations.

Ultimately, the trip to Croatia was not just about physical experiences. It was a meaningful journey connecting with new friends, exploring culture, and enjoying incredible cuisine.

A Unique Start from Atlanta