Interview with Larry Reams and Linda Shaeffer

Names: Linda Shaeffer and Larry Reams Along the Damatian Coast

Family Members: Larry has two married daughters, one grandaughter and one grandson---Linda has three sons, and five grandchildren.

Age (be as vague as you wish) We qualify for MOST senior citizen discounts

Where are some of the places you've gone with ExperiencePlus!? The Croatia trip was our first experience with ExperiencePlus!.

Larry I know that this was your first bike trip, and nearly the first time you've ridden a bike in recent history. What motivated you? Linda and I have been seeing each other for several months. Back in October, she was sitting at the computer and chuckled. When I ask her what was funny, she explained she had her plane ticket, but knew that ExperiencePlus! might cancel the Croatia trip, if enough people didn't sign up. So I said, if they need more just let me know. I'll buy a bike, learn how to ride and join you. Linda had done all the research for the trip---but I had never been on a road bike. I knew I would have fun with her. So it is her 'fault', I came.

So did you buy a new bike? What kind? Yes, a "Specialized" road bike

Did you train for the trip? What was your program? Did Linda help?
Linda shared what she had done in the past in preparation for other biking trips---and that was to ride a minimum of 100 miles a week---which is what I then did. She also suggested that I find some hills, but anyone who has ever been around the Sarasota, Florida area knows that it is devoid of any elevation over a few feet ---the exceptions being the bridges which cross the intercoastal waterway!!

What advice would you have for someone who is thinking about taking their first bike trip? Find an interesting place to explore and "just do it!"

Now that you've done it – what do you think of traveling by bike. It is a great way to explore and experience a new area, meet and interact with people who share the same interest, and, also, to learn more about the local areas. (and my children are impressed with my new look and wardrobe!--)

Since the two of you live in different states how did you meet? As we attended junior high Waterfalls in Croatia's Krka National Park and high school together many years ago in Enid, Oklahoma, we recently became reacquainted during participation in a March Madness pool which had been established by another high school graduate. Following emails and a visit last June, we discovered we shared many common interests---including adventure travel and the out of doors. Larry convinced Linda to try camping and a river rafting trip, and she agreed----if he would try a biking experience. All have met with success---(and at this point we are still very compatible!!) The rafting trip will be the test!

Any plans for your next adventure? In process! Hiking, river-rafting down the Middle Fork of the Salmon River---and anticipation of a near-future biking trip

Tell us something about yourselves that most people don't know. Linda is a "wannabe" Ginger Rogers---and is now taking dance lessons in an attempt to achieve that!

Having experienced every major tennis tournament except the French Open, Larry is hoping for a trip to explore Paris with Linda and a personal invitation from Rafael Nadal to watch him play! (And Larry doesn't even play tennis!)