In short, have a nice life.

Backroads – Netherlands and Belgium May 2025

It was time to say goodbye to the Backroads group. Our guides, Julie and Fabrice, took us out for a “sunrise” walk around the grounds of the Manoir de Lébioles—though let’s be honest, the sun had already clocked in and was halfway through its shift. The woods were beautifully maintained, and judging by the number of deer stands, I assume hunting season is a full-contact sport around here.

After our woodland farewell, we were herded into the dining room, where the hotel staff did their part to pad us for the journey—coffee, bread, cheese, meats, and then a to-go bag, just in case we encountered a sandwich emergency on the road to Brussels.

Boarding the bus felt like running a gauntlet of gratitude: handshakes, hugs, heartfelt “you were amazing”s, and the ceremonial slipping of the envelope—Backroads-speak for “thank you and please remember me fondly when splitting that tip.”

This was my 19th Backroads trip in the past 15 years, which either means I’m a devoted fan or I just like my vacations organized by cheerful, Lycra-clad logistics experts. I’ve tried other tour companies, but Backroads consistently nails the balance: active days, good food, and just enough socializing to feel friendly without needing a group therapist.

On the last morning, one of the other guests quietly admitted that the social aspect had been… a bit much. I get it. You’re cycling through strangers, not soulmates. I’ve learned over the years that, while we might exchange Instagram handles or become Facebook friends, we’re not starting a commune.

That doesn’t mean the stories aren’t great or the people forgettable—it just means you can enjoy the week, learn a few things, laugh a lot, and then go your separate ways with fond memories and no obligation to host a reunion barbecue.

So to my new friends: safe travels, keep pedaling, and may your future hotels all have excellent breakfast cheese.