USA / CANADA - Rolling the Islands of the
Salish Sea: Special Edition
Description, Schedule and Fact Sheet
For those who already love the
northwest USA and southwest Canada, or for those who are willing to fall in
love with this region, the International Bicycle Fund is offers a special
pre-conference edition of “Rolling the Islands of the Salish Sea” to
coincide with ProBike/ProWalk 2004 in Victoria, BC. This special edition
will pay extra attention to the special bike projects in the region. It
also true the regular program which is a fascinating nine-day immersion into
the heart and soul of the magical homeland of the Coastal Salish people.
Through a selected route, interpretive programs, and a variety of off-bike
activities, we cross eight islands from Seattle to Victoria exploring the
rich history and heritage, the geographical and environmental diversity, and
the economic, geological and cultural complexity of the Salish Sea.
Program participants have opportunities to: meet Suquamish, Swinomish and
other indigenous people; learn how Hawaiians were early foreign trappers and
traders here, Chinese built the infrastructure, Japanese fed the people,
Blacks and Jews outfitted the gold rushers and other ethnic groups
transformed the land. We visit local markets; wander in historic towns,
examine art and architecture, identify flora and fauna and enjoy the
extraordinary friendliness of the people and inspirational beauty of the
Salish Sea. The rich cultural heritage of the Northwest is a virtually
undiscovered treasure and the quality of the bicycling is legendary. The
program is more than a bicycle trip; in addition to the physical activity
you can enrich your mind and nourish you spirit.
IBF sponsors immersion, people-to-people, educational programs for those
who want to learn more about the people of the world, as well as see the
beautiful sights. The primary mode of travel is bicycle. The cycling varies
from program to program but is generally easy to moderate. Side trips are
available for those with extra energy. Accommodations are a mix from
western-style hotels to hostels and local housing. All participants receive
comprehensive pre-departure materials with detailed instructions on setting
up their bicycle, packing, training and other information for program
preparation. The program is ideal for the realist who appreciates the world
and the wonderful rewards gained for the modest rigors of bicycle touring.
Sbubi begins in Seattle. The program is $990,
including accommodations, two meals a day and variety of activities along
the way. The group is limited to 16 people so early registration is recommended.
Comments and Testimonials from Past Participants
Registration Information
FACT SHEET: Rolling the Islands of the Salish Sea: Special Edition *
Schedule: Scheduled departure in July (see schedule and status). Custom departures are
available year around..
Program Price (lodging, two meals/day, guide, museum fees and more): US$990. Average out of pocket expenses per program $100 plus or minus $50.
Description: Day 1-2: orientation and cultural and historic exploration of
Seattle. Day 3-5: visit several islands in Puget Sound, the sovereign nations of the Suquamish
and Swinomish people and several historic towns. Day 6-7: activities in the
San Juan Islands; sea kayaking, historic sites, cycling. Day 8-9: visit the
Canadian Gulf Islands and arrive in Victoria.
Features: Small group exploration of the fascinating cultural and ethnic
diversity (Native American, Asian, Black, Pacific Islander
and European) and natural and social history of Swatixwtud.
Enjoy the extraordinary natural beauty of the mountains, San Juan Islands,
inland waterways and forest, six ferry boat rides, a sea kayak trip, museums,
public art, architecture, historic sites, visits with unique local people
and beautiful back roads bicycling.
Skill Level: Suitable for fit
Beginners/Intermediate/Experts
Mileage Daily / Total: 50-100km, 31-62 miles per day, starts with lower
mileage / 400km, 250 miles total.
Cycling Conditions: paved roads, mostly rolling and small hills,
occasional big hills
Accommodations: Small hotels, hostels and church hall, no tent camping.
Van Support: no support vehicle.
Meals Included: Two meals per day, generally breakfast and dinner.
Other Activities: Discussions, visits, walking, sea kayaking, ferryboats
Bike: Touring bikes are recommended.
Bike Rental: limited availability at local bike shop.
* Itineraries, fares and dates subject to change. 20% of
the land portion is U.S. tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law for those
registering directly with IBF. Proceeds from this program go to
support the International Bicycle Fund and Bicycle Federation of Washington.
Registration:
Register simply by sending your name, address, phone number, name of the
program(s) and a deposit of $300 (of which $100 is a nonrefundable registration
fee) to the International Bicycle Fund. Deposit and payment may be made by check
or money order. Upon receipt of your registration a Voluntary Waiver and Release
Form Liability and Indemnity Agreement will be forwarded to you, or can be
gotten online, and must be
signed and returned before your registration is considered complete. Registrations
submitted less than 60 days prior to departure should include the full fee.
Registrations received less than 30 days prior to departure will be accepted
subject to availability and a late fee of $50. Payments within 30 days of
departure must be by cashier's check or electronic transfer. Early registration
is encouraged. Due to limits on group size and the advisability of starting
the reading list, registrations at least 90 days prior to the departure date
is suggested.
Full Payment: Due 60 days prior to departure. If payment has not been
received and no special arrangements have been made, we reserve the right to
assume withdrawal and fill the space.
Withdrawals: To receive a refund if withdrawing, submit a
letter of withdrawal in writing to IBF. Our policy is as follows: (1) A $100
registration fee is forfeited for all withdrawals. (2) A fee of $300 is assessed
for withdrawals within 6030 days prior to departure. (3) The full price of
the land costs is assessed for withdrawals initiated less than 30 days prior
to departure. Changes in medical circumstances are not considered as
exceptions to our normal refund policy. Insurance coverage for trip
cancellation/interruption is available from several companies.
Regional Background Information and Links Getting
There: Multi-modal Options for Seattle, King County & the Northwest
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