Dreaming of a motorcycle trip to distant climes? This section will help you to plan your trip, whether it's to the next state, country or all the way around the world! Start here!
The Achievable Dream 5-part series - the definitive video guide for planning your motorcycle adventure. Get Ready! covers planning, paperwork, medical and many other topics! "Inspirational and Awesome!" See the trailer here!
You could just get on a plane with your credit card and passport and buy or rent everything you need when you get there. That includes the bike, riding gear, etc. etc.
Gear Up! is a 2-DVD set, 6 hours! Which bike is right for me? How do I prepare the bike? What stuff do I need - riding gear, clothing, camping gear, first aid kit, tires, maps and GPS? What don't I need? How do I pack it all in? Lots of opinions from over 150 travellers! "will save you a fortune!"See the trailer here!
So you've done it - got inspired, planned your trip, packed your stuff and you're on the road! This section is about staying healthy, happy and secure on your motorcycle adventure. And crossing borders, war zones or oceans!
On the Road! is 5.5 hours of the tips and advice you need to cross borders, break down language barriers, overcome culture shock, ship the bike and deal with breakdowns and emergencies."Just makes me want to pack up and go!" See the trailer here!
Tire Changing!Grant demystifies the black art of Tire Changing and Repair to help you STAY on the road! "Very informative and practical." See the trailer here!
With an HU blog, you'll get a lot more readers than in some obscure corner of the web, it's all set to go, no setup required, and it's free! Start your Travel Story Blog right now!
800+ HU Communities in over 115 countries! People who want to meet travellers - yes that's YOU - and can provide local assistance, and may be your new best friends!
Make a DifferenceTips on fundraising or donating time and energy to a cause.
After the big trip - Was the trip the best - or worst - thing you ever did?
Resources and Links
Horizons Unlimited Presents!
Ladies on the Loose! For the first time ever, a motorcycle travel DVD made for women, by women! These intrepid women share their tips to help you plan your own motorcycle adventure. They also answer the women-only questions, and entertain you with amazing tales from the road! Presented by Lois Pryce, veteran solo traveller through South America and Africa and author of 'Lois on the Loose', and 'Red Tape and White Knuckles.'
"It has me all fired up to go out on my own adventure!" See the trailer here!
Meet people who don't think you're crazy for wanting to ride your bike to South America or across Asia! They will encourage you, share their experiences and advice on how to do it!
We're not a big multi-national company, just two people who love motorcycle travel and have grown a hobby into a full time job and a labour of love.
When you decide to become a Member, it helps directly support the site. You get additional privileges on the HUBB, access to the Members Private Store, and more. Of course, you get our sincere thanks, good karma and knowing you're helping to keep the motorcycle travel dream alive. :-)
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T-shirts, Calendars, Stickers
T-shirts Cotton or synth sweat-wicking t-shirts with the cool Horizons Unlimited graphic on the front and a snappy slogan (changing every year) on the back.
Calendars Featuring the 13 winning photos from the Horizons Unlimited annual motorcycle travel photo contest!
World Map Sticker for PanniersShow your route on your panniers. Great conversation starter when you meet people on the road!
Travel BooksMotorcycle and travel books to inspire and inform you!
Videos - Watch and Learn!
Horizons Unlimited presents!
Achievable Dream The definitive guide to planning your motorcycle adventure! This insanely ambitious 2-year project has produced an informative and entertaining 5-part, 18 hour video series. "The ultimate round the world rider's how-to!" MCN UK.
"The series is 'free' because the tips and advice will save much more than you spend on buying the DVD's."
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The HUBB PUBChat forum - no useful content required!
BUT the basic rules of polite and civil conduct which everyone agreed to when signing up for the HUBB, will still apply, though moderation will be a LITTLE looser than elsewhere on the HUBB.
Search Forums ONLY searches the HUBB, and not well. Use Site Search to search everywhere.
She claimed she rode the highest road in Morocco, Tizi N Ouana, some 600m lower than the actual highest and also lower than 2 other passes nearby. IMHO if you want to give info to the viewers do some basic checks on accuracy first
It wasn’t reported here but 10 days ago tourists were arrested in a Tangier after being reported for using a drone without the legal permit. Mauritania has similar restrictions.
It’s not about finding the negatives, it’s the reality that irresponsible behaviour by a few have far reaching implications for other travellers further down the line. For example, drone restrictions, the €250 scam at the Senegal Border, huge deposit requirements for Ethiopia etc).
I have nothing against her personally but after watching a couple of episodes soon realised I have better things to do and stated my reasons for not watching
I'm happy to read trip reports and watch videos by first timers—it awakens memories in me of what it was like the first time. Chris Kermis has a lot of videos around the world, many in Morocco, and whilst I have occasionally politely corrected inaccuracies in the comments, I do still enjoy them.
This is Chris's video of the three day 'sardine minibus' tour to Erg Chebbi.
__________________ "For sheer delight there is nothing like altitude; it gives one the thrill of adventure
and enlarges the world in which you live," Irving Mather (1892-1966)
lots of nit picking, it must be very hard to exhaustively research a country if you are on a tour that may cross 10 or more countries, of course an expat who lives there or a local will always find errors, but they are not important in the big picture.
I'm still finding new roads and fun places in a country that I've travelled in for 39 years.
The girl is smart, polite, inspirational and doesn't click bait too much, and its FREE
lots of nit picking, it must be very hard to exhaustively research a country if you are on a tour that may cross 10 or more countries, of course an expat who lives there or a local will always find errors, but they are not important in the big picture.
I'm still finding new roads and fun places in a country that I've travelled in for 39 years.
The girl is smart, polite, inspirational and doesn't click bait too much, and its FREE
its not the definative guide , but its pretty near to what most of us expect from our travels , and as you point out she is smart and well travelled !
its not the definative guide , but its pretty near to what most of us expect from our travels , and as you point out she is smart and well travelled !
I like Itchy Boots. She does occasionally get a bit boring as in this section of North West Africa but I’m sure she’ll have a lot of good vids as she continues south.
On the road I have heard a lot of misogynistic belittling or other travellers ‘vaguely knowing of her’ but not watching any videos whilst they are clearly trying to emulate her. Having watched their channels, it’s clear, that they are failing miserably :-)
Location: Cowichan Bay, Vancouver Island, BC, Canada
Posts: 343
I happened to watch that particular episode last night. She said "I believe" in reference to the highest road at the very beginning of the episode. at 12:50 into the episode she says "Welcome to the highest road in Morocco, I Think". She even doubts herself so I don't see how any of it would be "rubbish". As for the drone, innocent until proven guilty. Maybe she has a permit, maybe not. But I challenge anyone here to tell us with a straight face that they have never ever broken any rules in another country or their own. Not condoning rule breaking but just pointing out the inconsistent way in which we apply judgement.
Like her and her videos or not but I think she's doing a good job and I enjoy watching her. I question where the anger towards her is really coming from.
Quote:
Originally Posted by TheWarden
She claimed she rode the highest road in Morocco, Tizi N Ouana, some 600m lower than the actual highest and also lower than 2 other passes nearby. IMHO if you want to give info to the viewers do some basic checks on accuracy first
It wasn’t reported here but 10 days ago tourists were arrested in a Tangier after being reported for using a drone without the legal permit. Mauritania has similar restrictions.
It’s not about finding the negatives, it’s the reality that irresponsible behaviour by a few have far reaching implications for other travellers further down the line. For example, drone restrictions, the €250 scam at the Senegal Border, huge deposit requirements for Ethiopia etc).
I have nothing against her personally but after watching a couple of episodes soon realised I have better things to do and stated my reasons for not watching
No anger or anything like that from me. If she’s managed to find a niche that keeps her supported on the road then more power to her elbow as far as I’m concerned. It may just be that one man’s sober observation is another man’s spittle flecked rant but that’s language usage for you. There does tend to be a bit of that in areas where you can do the activity either for the love of it or for a living. During my 30+ yrs as a professional photographer I was often told I should be using that bit of equipment or that bit of software/ type of film by well meaning enthusiasts. Sometimes it even made sense but mostly it didn’t. IB seems to be doing ok (as far as I can see anyway) and all I would say to any critics is let’s see your travel blogs. If they’re better you’ll be out there with her.
) and all I would say to any critics is let’s see your travel blogs. If they’re better you’ll be out there with her.[/QUOTE]
Agree with your comments ......... Why do people find faults with Miss itchy Boots ?
Its a story of her travels.... and not a 100% accurate documentry !
K
Any social media related to overlanding is, ultimately, just another form of travellers throughout the ages writing their own story and publishing it. It's just that there are a lot more stories now, which are a lot more accessible to us all than there has been in the past.
For me, the balance lies between whether the story becomes more about the traveller or more about the places/stories about where they have travelled. In my experience, there does seem to be a tendancy towards the former more often than not, which is a shame and I can't help but feel that social media encourages that I think because it lends itself to visually-impactful content as a way of driving engagement.
For me, as someone who writes longer-form content and photographs a bit now (but had a brief and unsuccesful flirtation with social media in earlier travels) I've found the focus on where I've travelled has led to a far more rewarding and genuine experience. But, each to their own.
Against that benchmark, I think Itchy Boots does a pretty good job - I think her content is a lot more genuine and interesting then others' out there.
Location: Cowichan Bay, Vancouver Island, BC, Canada
Posts: 343
That is precisely why I like watching her. She comes across as modest (as far as bloggers/youtubers go). I find many other content providers to be way too much about "hey look at me!". I don't get that vibe from her. I also love the fact that she's somewhat mechanically "uninclined" yet still goes and does it anyway.
Quote:
Originally Posted by edwardbgill
Any social media related to overlanding is, ultimately, just another form of travellers throughout the ages writing their own story and publishing it. It's just that there are a lot more stories now, which are a lot more accessible to us all than there has been in the past.
For me, the balance lies between whether the story becomes more about the traveller or more about the places/stories about where they have travelled. In my experience, there does seem to be a tendancy towards the former more often than not, which is a shame and I can't help but feel that social media encourages that I think because it lends itself to visually-impactful content as a way of driving engagement.
For me, as someone who writes longer-form content and photographs a bit now (but had a brief and unsuccesful flirtation with social media in earlier travels) I've found the focus on where I've travelled has led to a far more rewarding and genuine experience. But, each to their own.
Against that benchmark, I think Itchy Boots does a pretty good job - I think her content is a lot more genuine and interesting then others' out there.
I also love the fact that she's somewhat mechanically "uninclined" yet still goes and does it anyway.
That's a very good point. I really liked how she dealt with the part in a recent video where her bike would not start after a fall - especially the response in the next video... "Yes it's easy for you guys sitting at home to say it was obviously the gear position sensor or kickstand sensor, but you're not actually in the middle of the desert and worn out after riding in the sand under the hot sun!" I think that's a very underappreciated part of the travel experience. And hey, she solved the problem.
Have YOU ever wondered who has ridden around the world? We did too - and now here's thelist of Circumnavigators!
Check it out now, and add your information if we didn't find you.
Check the RAW segments; Grant, your HU host is on every month!
Episodes below to listen to while you, err, pretend to do something or other...
2020 Edition of Chris Scott's Adventure Motorcycling Handbook.
"Ultimate global guide for red-blooded bikers planning overseas exploration. Covers choice & preparation of best bike, shipping overseas, baggage design, riding techniques, travel health, visas, documentation, safety and useful addresses." Recommended. (Grant)
Ripcord Rescue Travel Insurance™ combines into a single integrated program the best evacuation and rescue with the premier travel insurance coverages designed for adventurers.
Led by special operations veterans, Stanford Medicine affiliated physicians, paramedics and other travel experts, Ripcord is perfect for adventure seekers, climbers, skiers, sports enthusiasts, hunters, international travelers, humanitarian efforts, expeditions and more.
Ripcord travel protection is now available for ALL nationalities, and travel is covered on motorcycles of all sizes!
What others say about HU...
"This site is the BIBLE for international bike travelers." Greg, Australia
"Thank you! The web site, The travels, The insight, The inspiration, Everything, just thanks." Colin, UK
"My friend and I are planning a trip from Singapore to England... We found (the HU) site invaluable as an aid to planning and have based a lot of our purchases (bikes, riding gear, etc.) on what we have learned from this site." Phil, Australia
"I for one always had an adventurous spirit, but you and Susan lit the fire for my trip and I'll be forever grateful for what you two do to inspire others to just do it." Brent, USA
"Your website is a mecca of valuable information and the (video) series is informative, entertaining, and inspiring!" Jennifer, Canada
"Your worldwide organisation and events are the Go To places to for all serious touring and aspiring touring bikers." Trevor, South Africa
"This is the answer to all my questions." Haydn, Australia
"Keep going the excellent work you are doing for Horizons Unlimited - I love it!" Thomas, Germany
Horizons Unlimited is not a big multi-national company, just two people who love motorcycle travel and have grown what started as a hobby in 1997 into a full time job (usually 8-10 hours per day and 7 days a week) and a labour of love. To keep it going and a roof over our heads, we run events all over the world with the help of volunteers; we sell inspirational and informative DVDs; we have a few selected advertisers; and we make a small amount from memberships.
You don't have to be a Member to come to an HU meeting, access the website, or ask questions on the HUBB. What you get for your membership contribution is our sincere gratitude, good karma and knowing that you're helping to keep the motorcycle travel dream alive. Contributing Members and Gold Members do get additional features on the HUBB. Here's a list of all the Member benefits on the HUBB.
helps answer the question - Why Go? Inspirational stories by veteran travellers Greg Frazier (5 times RTW), Peter and Kay Forwood (193 countries), Tiffany Coates (Mongolia Mayhem) and Rene Cormier (University of Gravel Roads).
Get Ready! covers planning, paperwork, medical and many other topics! "Inspirational and Awesome!" See the trailer here!
What stuff do I need - riding gear, clothing, camping gear, first aid kit, tires, maps and GPS? What don't I need? How do I pack it all in? Lots of opinions from over 150 travellers!
break down language barriers, overcome culture shock, ship the bike and deal with breakdowns and emergencies."Just makes me want to pack up and go!" See the trailer here!
Grant demystifies the black art of Tire Changing and Repair to help you STAY on the road! "Very informative and practical." See the trailer here!
Ladies on the Loose! For the first time ever, a motorcycle travel DVD made for women, by women! These intrepid women share their tips to help you plan your own motorcycle adventure. They also answer the women-only questions, and entertain you with amazing tales from the road! Presented by Lois Pryce, veteran solo traveller through South America and Africa and author of 'Lois on the Loose', and 'Red Tape and White Knuckles.'
Cotton or synth sweat-wicking t-shirts with the cool Horizons Unlimited graphic on the front and a snappy slogan (changing every year) on the back.
Show your route on your panniers. Great conversation starter when you meet people on the road!
Motorcycle and travel books to inspire and inform you!
The definitive guide to planning your motorcycle adventure! This insanely ambitious 2-year project has produced an informative and entertaining 5-part, 18 hour video series. "The ultimate round the world rider's how-to!" MCN UK.
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