By Maggie Deffense & Enrique DíazIs Spain a country with a weird cultural tradition? Well, as a Spaniard I would say that the answer should be 'not really'. As a visitor you would probably agree with that answer, except if you happen to land into one of the following weird Festivals! El Colacho (Baby Jumping by the Devil)There is nothing in life that you adore more than you kids, your little babies. Now take your babies, lay down them on the ground and allow the devil to jump over them. This is the argument of El Colacho. This uniquely Spanish festival sees men dressed up as the devil (colacho) in red and yellow costumes, form a queue to leap over a mattress laden with babies born during the previous 12 months. The ceremony is said to rid the babies of original sin and guard them against illness. This is one of the many Corpus Christi festivals held all over Spain on the first Sunday after Corpus Christi. Festival of the Nearly DeadPhoto by Jose Maria Moreno Garcia Those who have had a brush with death in the past year are carried through the streets in coffins to thank Saint Marta de Ribarteme, the 'patron saint of death'. Those that don’t have friends or family to carry them have to carry their own coffins. Rather sad. However, in true Spanish fashion everyone rejoices with music, food and drink and the telling and re-telling of their near-death experiences! Human Tower Building CompetitionPhoto by MichaÅ‚ Parzuchowski on Unsplash The city of Tarragona in Catalonia celebrates the world's biggest human tower building competition, every other year. The tradition of building these astonishing 10 meter-high human towers has a long history in this region, dating back to the 18th century. As you can see, towers are made of people standing over other's shoulders and finally a small child climbs to the tip of the trembling tower (you can see one this kid climbing half way the tower in the photo above). Human towers have a remarkable aesthetic and they are a sample of human achievement over the physical laws. In fact, human towers have been declared an intangible cultural heritage by UNESCO. At the same time, we can stop thinking about the amount of weight the guys at the bottom are supporting, and how someone can feel when climbing over three or more floors of a not stable stair of humans. Absolutely insane! Tamborrada, Drum FestivalTamborrada of Donostia is a celebratory drum festival held every year on January 20 in the city of San Sebastián, Spain. At midnight, at the Konstituzio Plaza in the Old Town, the mayor raises the flag of the city. The festival lasts for 24 hours. Participants, dressed as cooks and soldiers, march in companies across the city. The origins of the celebration are not clear. According to the most popular version, the tradition was started at the beginning of the 19th century, when Napoleon's troops invaded San Sebastian and the local women would mock the French soldiers who marched around the city streets by banging buckets. Maybe you think that a drum festival is not so weird. Go there and experience that loud drum sound continuously non stop for 24 hours and send us your feedback. Running the Bulls or Running WhateverSure you've heard about running the bulls, during the San Fermin Festival, where people run in front of big bulls through the old town of Pamplona. This event, where runners risk their life, is weird enough to put in this list, but keep reading because it will get even more surreal. Perhaps because using bulls as entertainment (that later in the afternoon will end sacrificed in the bull ring) is harming the sensitivity of more and more citizens, a trend of Running Whatever is becoming the new thing. A couple of examples: Running the BusIn Torralba de Ribota (Aragón), at the end of the local festivity, people run in front of the public bus that leaves at 8:00AM. I know you don't believe us, but have a look at this video: Running the Ball (Boloencierro)In this case, locals from Mataelpino, not very far from the capital Madrid, decided to run in front of a heavy giant ball. Supposedly, the replacement of the bulls is because the ball was cheaper than the bulls (at the end, they are not stupid). Also in the first editions they used a heavy ball of about 200kg but after several people got seriously injured they replaced the ball with something lighter, just 30kg rolling towards you. Still, in 2019 the major of the town broke his collar bone trying to avoid the ball. More weirdnessDo you know of any other weird and wonderful festivals in Spain? Let us know in the comments below, or share your story right here!
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By Scott SparrowMy son graduated from high school in 2021 and before he started his fist year of college at Brigham Young University (BYU), we set out on an epic adventure. While no great adventure is without challenges, ours almost never got off the ground. We bought plane tickets for the day after he graduated, June 1st, and showed up at the airport in Texas, packs on our backs, bound for Spain. Only to find Spain closed to visitors from the United States due to COVID 19 concerns. So, we climbed back in the car, heads down, dejected. My first call was not to my wife or to my employer, but to Cycling Rentals. “Please tell me you haven’t shipped the bikes yet,” I pleaded.” My fear was confirmed. “We shipped them this morning. Is there a problem?” I explained that our trip would be postponed because of the pandemic. Over the next month we rearranged work schedules, albergue reservations, train tickets, and cycling rentals. Then finally, one month to the day after our first attempt, my son flew from Utah and I from Texas. We met in the airport, this time actually making our first connection in route to Spain. Planes, trains, and cars later, we arrived in Saint Jean, France, where our bikes awaited us. We road for the next 7 days, covering close to 500 kilometers along the famed Camino de Santiago. We then dropped off the bikes and hiked the remaining distance into Santiago.
In total, we trekked 779 km over 14 days. It was exhilarating, it was gorgeous, it was exhausting, It was the adventure of a life time! If you're looking for an unforgettable experience, self guided bike tours are just the thing. Self-guided bike tours are a great way to explore the world around you because you have greater opportunity to interact with your environment. You can also take time to stop and explore an area that otherwise might not have captured your attention. It might sound intimidating, but don't worry! This beginner’s guide will give you all the information you need to go on a self-guided bike tour. From what route is best for beginners, to what you need for safety, this guide has it all! The basics of self-guided bike toursSelf-guided bike tours are a great way to explore the world around you because you have greater opportunity to interact with your environment. You can also take time to stop and explore an area that otherwise might not have captured your attention. You don't need a lot of experience to embark on a self-guided bike tour! In fact, if you're new to biking, this is a great way to start out. The first thing you'll want to do is read up on how to use your bike properly. It's important that you know how it should feel to ride it with some luggage and on different terrain. There's a difference between the feel of a road or mountain bike, so make sure you understand which type of bike will suit your route, before departure. Once you have an understanding of the appropriate bicycle for your type of bike tour, find the perfect route for beginners. A good beginner's self guided bike tour should have you cycling between three to five hours hours a day, with a straightforward route and with easy turns and limited hill climbing. Aim to avoid busy roads and areas where cars may come from different directions unexpectedly. What route is best for beginners?Photo by Mohit Tomar on Unsplash When you're preparing for a self-guided bike tour, one of the most important decisions you'll have to make is what route to take. There are many factors that will go into this decision including how much time you have, your fitness level, and your preference. If you're just getting started with bike tours, then it's often best to start out with a loop ride route. Loop routes provide a great introductory experience because they typically have a low amount of elevation gains and can be completed in about four hours. Loop ride tours are great for beginners because they simplify arrival and departure logistics considerably and therefore may not require as much time commitment – so, if you need to stop riding halfway through because it's too difficult or you tire out before reaching the end then there's no pressure! Loop ride bike tours also come with an opportunity for exploration. If there's something along the way that catches your eye (like a scenic viewpoint), then you can take some time to explore it. This gives beginners the chance to gain experience without feeling like they're abandoning their original plan. What to wearNo matter your destination, you're going to want to pack for an adventure! When it comes to clothing, it's important to dress in layers. You never know what the weather will be like or how active you'll get while on your bike. It may sound obvious, but do pack cycling clothes that are appropriate for biking, but also pack after riding clothes that can get dirty or that are easy to wash and dry. You'll also want to wear light colors so you don't get overheated while cycling in the sun. And if you plan on riding at night, make sure that your clothes are reflective and easy-to-see. Pack the right gear Before you start your tour, make sure you've got the right gear:
When you're planning what to pack, think about what items might be essential based on where you're going. For example, if you'll be in a hot climate, sunscreen is an absolute must! If you're going somewhere with snow and ice, bring appropriate clothing and traction devices. You can find a detailed bike tour packing list here. Safety on a bike tourSafety should always be your number one priority and nothing should ever deter you from taking the necessary precautions. It's important to wear a helmet, follow traffic laws, and make sure you can be seen on or off the bike. I recommend wearing a bright colored jersey, wind breaker or helmet. If you follow the rules of the road and use some common sense, bike tours are very safe if you just take these few small precautions. ConclusionPhoto by Mark Stosberg on Unsplash Self-guided bike tours are a great way to explore the world's most beautiful destinations. Here are 3 broad and simple tips for beginner cyclists to make their first self-guided bike tour a success: 1) Start with an easy and travel friendly destination, you can find some of our favourite and recommended bicycle tour routes in Spain and Portugal here. 2) Look for routes that avoid major roads and highways, to avoid traffic hazards, but that lead you to interesting destinations so you never feel too far from civilization or that all you do is pedal! 3) Consider Points of Interest, distance and elevation gain. What is there to see? How far do you want to cycle each day? How much do you want to climb each day? Also think about terrain (paved or unpaved), time available, and weather conditions. You need to be sure you are fit enough to cycle the full distance of the tour, while taking into account that the challenge level is not just the distance cycled, but also the elevation gain for the days ride. I also recommend allowing sufficient time to actually enjoy the rides and also your overnight destinations - and points of interest along the way! Although most people prefer spring and summer for the better weather conditions, we have many experienced cyclists who prefer cycling in autumn and winter, and risking a little rain so they can avoid crowds.
Cycling Rentals has been designing and operating bike tours for nearly 20 years, and we can help you choose or plan your perfect self guided bike tour - get in touch. In the mean time, click below for some inspiration! Cycling is one of the best ways to get around for short distances, and it's also a great way to stay fit. But what's the point if you're not comfortable? There are plenty of choices in cycling clothes these days, but the sheer number of options can be overwhelming. Here are 6 simple tips to help choosing clothes that will make cycling even more enjoyable. The Importance of ComfortComfort is extremely important when it comes to cycling clothes. If you're not comfortable, you won't want to keep riding your bike! Many cyclists will tell you that breathable fabrics are a must, which is true for summer months. But don't forget about the rest of the year. For winter cycling, synthetic fibers and wool clothing will keep you warm and dry. And if you have sensitive skin, you'll need to find clothing made from soft materials like cotton or synthetics. But what about your feet? Cycling can sometimes be uncomfortable on your feet because it puts pressure on the balls of your feet. To avoid this, wear shoes with grippy soles (like sneakers) or invest in cycling-specific shoes The Right Type of MaterialThe material you choose for your cycling clothes is going to make a huge difference in how comfortable you feel on the bike. Most of your clothes should be made out of a stretchy, breathable fabric that will not restrict any motion or sweating. When picking a cycling shirt, look for materials that are fitted and have short sleeves to avoid discomfort from riding with long sleeves. You also want to avoid fabrics that are too heavy, as they'll hang around you and cause chaffing. For pants, try out different types of materials like denim, polyester, and lycra. Ditch the jeans and go for synthetic pants that will wick sweat away from your body and keep you dry on those hot days! Choosing the Right Cycling ShortsChoosing the right cycling shorts begins with your bicycle. If you're riding a bike with a narrow saddle, then you'll want to wear bike shorts that are more form-fitting than loose-fitting. But what about comfort? There are so many factors to consider when choosing clothes for cycling. First, make sure the waistband of your shorts isn't too tight. It should be snug enough to stay in place without cutting into your skin or feeling too tight on your stomach. You also want to make sure there's enough room around the crotch area - if it feels like you're sitting on the seam of the shorts, they're probably not comfortable enough for cycling! If you're looking for style, there are plenty of options available on the market today. Cycling clothing designers offer different cuts and lengths to try and accommodate different body types and tastes. Choosing the Right Cycling JerseyCycling jerseys are one of the most important pieces of clothing you can wear. This is because they're designed to be tight-fitting, so they won't ride up when you're cycling and cause discomfort. There are a few different types of cycling jerseys available on the market, from long-sleeved tops to short-sleeved tops with a variety of colors and designs. But don't worry about choosing a jersey based on what's in fashion. Choose your jersey based on what will work best for you and your body type! Short sleeves might be more comfortable in hot weather, but if you have larger arms or broad shoulders, long sleeves might be better for you. Try out different types of cycling jerseys to find out which one works best for you. Choosing the Right Cycling JacketJacket breathability is essential for comfortable cycling. If your jacket doesn't breathe well, you'll end up feeling like a sweaty mess. That's why it pays to choose a material that will wick away sweat and keep you cool. Plus, there are plenty of other features that can make a cycling jacket more comfortable. Zippered pockets are a great idea if you plan on carrying anything with you while cycling, and they also allow you to store your belongings without fear of them falling out. Elastic waistbands help cover your stomach and back from the wind, which is especially important on colder and windier days. Whatever jacket you decide to buy, make sure it's made from a breathable material with pockets and an elastic waistband! Choosing the Right Eyewear and GlovesIf you'll be cycling in generally clear weather, sunglasses are a great idea. They keep the sun out of your eyes and make it easier for you to see traffic. They can also save you from insects and debris flying into your eyes. I recommend choosing glasses with polarized lenses as they work well in changing light conditions and with the added benefit that you can often spy fish swiming under the shimmering sea if you are cycling by the sea! Gloves are also a must-have for cycling. If you're going to ride any significant distance, it's worth investing in gloves with gel padding and breathable fabric. This will help protect your hands from wind and cold and reduce hand fatigue as well as making your hands more comfortable on the handlebars. Extra Tip: Don't forget your Helmet!You might not think of your helmet as an accessory, but it's an essential part of cycling safety. To find the perfect helmet, you'll need to find one that fits comfortably. It should sit level on your head without tilting forward or back. The straps should form a Y shape under your ears, and it should be snug but not tight. When you shake your head, the helmet shouldn't move. The best time to wear your helmet is before you get on the bike, not after! We do offer high quality, fully adjustable, EU certified helmets for rent in 2 sizes, if you would rather save space in your luggage! ConclusionThe more comfortable your cycling clothes are, the more likely you are to enjoy your ride for longer.
Luckily, there are plenty of ways to be comfortable while riding. From the right type of material to the right type of cycling shorts, there are plenty of things you can do to feel even better while cycling. I hope this article helped, now get out there and ride!! Photo by Ashley de Lotz on Unsplash Cycling is both a challenging and rewarding activity. A great pair of shoes can make the difference between a good and bad time on the bike. On the other hand, wearing uncomfortable or poorly-fitting shoes can result in pain and frustration with your ride. Choosing the best cycling shoes for you is an important part of your cycling experience. Check out this guide to learn how to find the best cycling shoes for your needs, what to look for when buying, and how to take care of them! What To Look For When Buying Cycling ShoesPhoto by Jan Kopřiva on Unsplash Cycling shoes are a specialized type of footwear made specifically for cycling. They differ from other types of athletic shoes due to the rigors and requirements of riding a bike. For instance, cycling shoes have a stiff sole that's designed to pedal with efficiency. They also have a more rigid upper that keeps your foot in place to prevent foot slippage- especially if you're pedaling hard or going uphill. In order to find the best cycling shoe for your needs, you'll need to evaluate the different features each shoe has and make sure it aligns with your needs as a cyclist. For example, if you're looking for a pair of shoes for short rides on paved roads, you might want a lighter shoe without too many bells and whistles. On the other hand, if you plan on doing intense mountain biking or racing, then look into a shoe that is sturdy and supportive, with a sticky sole and reinforced toe cap. Upper material and designWhen choosing a cycling shoe, it's important that you consider the upper material and design. Cycling shoes typically have uppers made from materials like synthetic leather, mesh, or textile. In general, textile can be less durable than leather but more breathable and also more water resistant. Designs vary as well. Some cyclists prefer shoes designed for mountain bike cycling with a rugged tread pattern on the soles to assist climbing. If you don't plan on participating in any off road activities, you can opt for sleek street style cycling shoes with rubber soles designed for higher speeds on pavement. There are so many great options out there! It can be hard to choose which one is right for you. Take your time shopping around until you find the perfect pair of cycling shoes that will work best for your needs and style! Fit and support The first thing to consider when selecting a cycling shoe is the fit. Shoes that don't have enough room in the toe box, or that pinch your toes, can lead to numbness and pain on your ride. Along with a good fit, there are a couple of other aspects of a cycling shoe you should pay close attention to:
Material and designThe first thing to consider when looking for cycling shoes is the material. Cycling shoes are made from a variety of materials including leather, nylon, mesh, and synthetic fabrics. Depending on your needs, you may be better suited to one type of shoe over another. For example, if you're prone to foot pain or have sensitive feet, synthetic fabrics can make more sense since they they can mold to your foot faster than natural other materials. The design also matters- some cyclists may prefer a clipless pedal while others will want a toe clip or strap. You'll need to decide what suits your needs best before buying cycling shoes! Photo by Raoul Ortega on Unsplash How to Care for Your Cycling ShoesCycling shoes are a necessity for any cyclist. These high-performance shoes help you pedal with ease and comfort, so it's important to take care of them. When you're not cycling, shoes should be stored in a dry place. It's best to keep them off the floor and propped up on a shoe tree or a pair of sneakers. This will keep the insides from becoming dirty and smelly. If your shoes do become wet from rain or sweat, towel dry them before storing them to ensure they don't mold from sitting in dampness. Photo by Velizar Ivanov on Unsplash The best way to clean your cycling shoes is by wiping them down with a damp cloth after each ride. You can also use a spray cleaner if you prefer, but make sure it doesn't contain alcohol because it could damage your materials. To remove excess dirt or mud, use some saddle soap on the outside of the shoe while avoiding contact with the inside, which can cause damage due to its abrasive properties. After cleaning, rinse thoroughly and wipe dry again with a soft towel to prevent water spots on the leather surface of your shoes. For persistent stains on parts that can't be removed with saddle soap, try using some baking soda on that area followed by an application ConclusionChoosing the right cycling shoes is critical to your comfort and performance. It’s important to only buy the best shoes for cycling to be comfortable, perform well, and last a long time. That’s why we’ve compiled this guide to help you out.
Now that you know what to look for when buying cycling shoes, you can find the best ones for your needs with confidence. Keep these tips in mind when searching for your new cycling shoes and you’ll be on your way to finding the best pair. If you found these tips useful, do share them with a friend! |