With the incredible success of Britain’s Bradley Wiggins last season, it’s no surprise that the Brits have got cycling fever and excited about being in France to witness the TdF first hand next year.

British Cycling Success is Boosting Tourism 

By Leandro Paragas

Recent British success in world cycling has resulted in a very sudden interest in the sport.  Following Bradley Wiggins’ victory in the Tour de France, many people are already looking for discount holidays and packages from travel companies like Holiday Hypermarket and the chance to cheer on British riders in next year’s race.  Fortunately, there are several deals that offer people the chance to witness the key stages of the race without spending a fortune.

A number of different terrains and challenges await the riders, making it the ultimate test of stamina.  The tour takes in some of the most stunning scenery France has to offer, forcing riders to demonstrate their various skills, such as climbing, sprinting and endurance.  For many, the most iconic images are those of the final stage’s sprint down the Champs-Elysees in Paris.  There are a number of options for anyone wanting to follow the entire tour or simply take in some of the highlights.

Next year’s tour promises to be one of the most exciting ever.  The likely return of Alberto Contador will ensure that Bradley Wiggins is pushed all the way for the 2013 title.  In anticipation of this great event, several travel companies are offering packaged deals which allow fans to follow the whole race.  Perhaps the most impressive package involves travel by luxury coach to every single stage.  For one price, travel, food and accommodation throughout the trip is included; an ideal scenario for those wanting to see the whole event without the hassle of organising a long and complex journey.

There are also a number of shorter deals that include travel and accommodation to specific stages of the tour.  For the more energetic cycling enthusiasts, many travel companies offer the chance to follow in the footsteps of the professionals.  As well as watching some of the key stages, fans will get some expert training and the chance to ride along some of the Tour de France routes; there surely can be no more exciting way of experiencing the spectacle.

Key stages of the 2,000 mile race can be enjoyed at any time of the year.  A particular favourite with enthusiasts is the Alps base tour . It includes a number of stunning ascents and descents against the spectacular backdrop of the Alpine mountains.  Many packages include the use of professional cycles, tuition and all of the necessary equipment.  As cycling continues to capture the imagination of new fans, interest in these types of holiday will probably continue to rise.

As many of you will remember I spent a week in July at Le Tour with @SteamyWynndows & @AndyMWild and as a result of that trip, ended up the proud owner of a limited edition Team Sky jersey signed by the riders. Since returning from the Tour I’ve been determined to make that Sky jersey the centre piece in my lycra-man cave… less affectionately known as ‘the 3rd bedroom’. Now finally, the room is complete. The hand painted World Champion stripes are finished, the jersey has returned from the framers, the pictures are hung and the adminration has begun!

But this room isn’t just for looking at, it’s become my motivation. Where better to punish yourself in front of a Sufferfest video (or two if you feel particularly anarchic!) than in a room surrounded by memories of World Champions and pioneers of the sport!? Short of riding your turbo in Jens’ garage, you can’t get much more motivational than my new bike room! I’m very pleased with it and I hope The Sufferfest see fit to add me to their list of bike torture chambers.

So when a friend asked why I had decorated the room in homage to my idols… I answered, “Because I can!” Check out the video below and let me know what you think.

#IWBMATTKYT

Stevie