 16Likes
 |
|
11 Mar 2013
|
|
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
|
|
Join Date: Jul 2007
Location: No Fixed Address (formerly Toronto)
Posts: 1,847
|
|
|
What qualities make for a good travelling companion?
Barring the solo travellers, what top three traits (there are lots, I know) make for a good travelling companion? One that you don't want to strangle, or "fix" their front brakes after a long and trying day/week/month/year?
|
11 Mar 2013
|
|
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
|
|
Join Date: Feb 2004
Location: UK
Posts: 1,232
|
|
|
Easy going, doesn't take things too personally, flexible.
When I planned a little expedition to the Gambia I was only interested in taking guys from the military. They are used to having to live in each others pockets and are used to working under stress, and understand that everyone will throw their teddy out of the pram sometime and don't take it too personally.
This was after my experience travelling with others. I travelled with my dad and had to be stopped by others from putting a shovel through his head, he just didn't know when to leave someone alone! I also saw lots of teams who were best mates who after a week couldn't bear being in the same car together! I'm sure lots of us have done house shares with best friends and ended up hating them!
Most people simply don't have the experience to be able to adjust to that kind of living.
Thats why a lot of people, myself included, prefer to travel alone. I enjoy travelling with others, but in every group there's always at least one who really shouldn't be there and spoils it for the rest.
|
12 Mar 2013
|
 |
Contributing Member
Veteran HUBBer
|
|
Join Date: Dec 2009
Location: Tasmania
Posts: 120
|
|
For me;
- Reliability,
- In-dependability,
- Good communication abilities,
- Shared interests.
____
Paul
__________________
I have learned that I don't suffer from insanity, I enjoy it.
|
12 Mar 2013
|
|
Registered Users
HUBB regular
|
|
Join Date: Nov 2011
Location: San Diego, CA, USA
Posts: 92
|
|
|
Flexibility.
The wisdom to know when to call it quits and split up.
Knowledge of bike mechanics.
An easy going attitude...but not too easy going.
|
13 Mar 2013
|
|
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
|
|
Join Date: Feb 2006
Posts: 1,598
|
|
Quote:
Originally Posted by moggy 1968
Easy going, doesn't take things too personally, flexible.
When I planned a little expedition to the Gambia I was only interested in taking guys from the military. They are used to having to live in each others pockets and are used to working under stress, and understand that everyone will throw their teddy out of the pram sometime and don't take it too personally.
This was after my experience travelling with others. I travelled with my dad and had to be stopped by others from putting a shovel through his head, he just didn't know when to leave someone alone! I also saw lots of teams who were best mates who after a week couldn't bear being in the same car together! I'm sure lots of us have done house shares with best friends and ended up hating them!
Most people simply don't have the experience to be able to adjust to that kind of living.
Thats why a lot of people, myself included, prefer to travel alone. I enjoy travelling with others, but in every group there's always at least one who really shouldn't be there and spoils it for the rest.
|
I second that. Back in the sixties I used to ride in a group of eight of us, but only did long trips with one. He had a Velocette 500 and I had a Triumph. Our outlooks and riding styles were compatible and we rode all over the UK each summer holiday. never with any of the other six. Sadly we are the only two still surviving, both still riding bikes although I am reduced to riding an Enfield and him searching for a Ducati. These days I usually ride alone, was used to it as being in the forces I usually had along ride home each weekend from various "camps" back to Cornwall. I find it hard work riding with others.
Oh and the quality, just being able to trust in your companions judgement.
|
13 Mar 2013
|
|
-
Veteran HUBBer
|
|
Join Date: Apr 2006
Posts: 2,345
|
|
Quote:
Originally Posted by oldbmw
just being able to trust in your companions judgement.
|
wise word indeed  OldBMW
IMHO over the years, it is this!
always ready to go when you are
happy to eat anything especially what's in your bowl
never complains
never a prima donna
will jump in any water for a shower
never wrecks your plans
always happy to be with you wherever you are and want to go!
Last edited by Bertrand; 2 Mar 2016 at 17:17.
|
13 Mar 2013
|
 |
Contributing Member
Veteran HUBBer
|
|
Join Date: Aug 2008
Location: The Garden of England
Posts: 478
|
|
Quote:
Originally Posted by lightcycle
Barring the solo travellers, what top three traits (there are lots, I know) make for a good travelling companion?...
|
Someone who:
1. Shares their idea, view or opinion but isn't hell bent on achieving it
2. Knows how to have fun and enjoy the trip without riding or behaving like an imbecile or taking unreasonable risks
3. Is calm and resourceful, not getting stressed under pressure or when plans have to be changed
__________________
Paul "Every county of England, every country of Europe and every (part of every inhabited) continent of the Earth" 94% done! What's left? Central America, East, Central and West Africa, Australia & New Zealand
|
13 Mar 2013
|
 |
Contributing Member
Veteran HUBBer
|
|
Join Date: Aug 2011
Location: Home in Essex GB
Posts: 564
|
|
I look for someone who says what he/she is going to do and does it.......
Not people who say what they are going to do and then pull out !
I avoid anyone that says: " I'm not fussed" or " I don't mind" or "I'm easy"
( I may adjust my thoughts on the last one, should the facts dictate it may be in my best interest to do so )
So I either go alone, or take the wife ( which has been great.......... so far) 
|
13 Mar 2013
|
 |
Contributing Member
Veteran HUBBer
|
|
Join Date: Jul 2005
Location: Wirral, England.
Posts: 5,673
|
|
|
It has to be...
Compatibility. Obviously !
I've made some great life long friends from travelling partners and also wanted to bury some travel partners within days of leaving home...
For me........
1) Same sleep patterns.
There is NOTHING more irritating than being packed up, fed and sweating in your riding gear your travel partner is still snoring at midday. Especially when you have arranged an early dart in the morning for a border crossing etc etc
2) Easy going.
The ability to just go with the flow. I've traveled with one or two people who are such bullies in where to stay, what to eat and how long to ride.
I'm happy to be led... But not dragged !
3) Patient
We all have our moments when we're less than desirable. Long term travel can be stressful, lonely and difficult. You need a travel buddy who can bite their lip at times when you're having a bad day.
4) Helpful.
We all need help at times. A good team is essential.
5) The MOST important of all..
Sense of humor...
If you can't 'laugh it off' or find the funny side of a bad situation, you're lost in my books.
__________________
Did some trips.
Rode some bikes.
Fix them for a living.
Can't say anymore.
|
14 Mar 2013
|
|
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
|
|
Join Date: May 2007
Location: yorkshire
Posts: 362
|
|
My Wife .
I'm lucky that I get to spend each and every day on the road with Her. We work through any problem's that come our way. I don't think I could have done it without her and who better to share all the fantastic things that you see on on your travels . 
|
14 Mar 2013
|
|
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
|
|
Join Date: Feb 2006
Posts: 1,598
|
|
|
I see several have referred to taking their wives.
When I take mine we go by car.
can carry more, bigger tent, camp beds etc.
also car has longer range and is easier to stop for a meal or brew up as I keep the boot as a kitchen. In fact seriously considering getting a little diesel hatch back or similar.
They will do more mpg. more comfy than any sidecar rig.
|
14 Mar 2013
|
|
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
|
|
Join Date: Aug 2012
Location: Australia
Posts: 1,131
|
|
Easy going, common sense are the primary things ... then in rough order
The ability to disagree, but not take it personally!
Similar ability/attributes;
in riding
in camping
Preferably different knowledge (so as to cover areas I'm not proficient in!  ).
You only find theses thing out after a while .. so always a gamble on a new comer .. but worth taking the risk for the good ones.
|
18 Mar 2013
|
|
Registered Users
HUBB regular
|
|
Join Date: May 2012
Posts: 57
|
|
|
Good travel partner
Able to try and make the most of any situation.
|
18 Mar 2013
|
 |
Contributing Member
Veteran HUBBer
|
|
Join Date: Apr 2009
Location: Dunedin, NZ
Posts: 308
|
|
Agree with many who have already posted, but also need:
- someone who is happy to do things on their own (not tied at the hip!)
- the ability to make / share decisions (not just leave things to me)
- someone who can be relied upon to act accordingly (especially in difficult or dangerous situations)
I like the idea of a Dog! 
__________________
 Elaine
Striving to live the ordinary life in a non ordinary way
|
10 Apr 2013
|
|
Registered Users
HUBB regular
|
|
Join Date: May 2007
Location: Ottawa Ontario Canada
Posts: 60
|
|
Quote:
Originally Posted by *Touring Ted*
It has to be...
Compatibility. Obviously !
I've made some great life long friends from travelling partners and also wanted to bury some travel partners within days of leaving home...
For me........
1) Same sleep patterns.
There is NOTHING more irritating than being packed up, fed and sweating in your riding gear your travel partner is still snoring at midday. Especially when you have arranged an early dart in the morning for a border crossing etc etc
2) Easy going.
The ability to just go with the flow. I've traveled with one or two people who are such bullies in where to stay, what to eat and how long to ride.
I'm happy to be led... But not dragged !
3) Patient
We all have our moments when we're less than desirable. Long term travel can be stressful, lonely and difficult. You need a travel buddy who can bite their lip at times when you're having a bad day.
4) Helpful.
We all need help at times. A good team is essential.
5) The MOST important of all..
Sense of humor...
If you can't 'laugh it off' or find the funny side of a bad situation, you're lost in my books.
|
I agree 100% with all of your point, Ted. My buddy and I just left Brazil, otherwise I'd try and track you down for a cold one. Hopefully see you on the road one day.
Cheers!
|
|
Currently Active Users Viewing This Thread: 1 (0 Registered Users and/or Members and 1 guests)
|
|
|
Posting Rules
|
You may not post new threads
You may not post replies
You may not post attachments
You may not edit your posts
HTML code is Off
|
|
|
|
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
Lots more comments here!
Diaries of a compulsive traveller
by Graham Field
Book, eBook, Audiobook
"A compelling, honest, inspiring and entertaining writing style with a built-in feel-good factor" Get them NOW from the authors' website and Amazon.com, Amazon.ca, Amazon.co.uk.
Back Road Map Books and Backroad GPS Maps for all of Canada - a must have!
New to Horizons Unlimited?
New to motorcycle travelling? New to the HU site? Confused? Too many options? It's really very simple - just 4 easy steps!
Horizons Unlimited was founded in 1997 by Grant and Susan Johnson following their journey around the world on a BMW R80G/S.
Read more about Grant & Susan's story
Membership - help keep us going!
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.
Linear Mode
