Interview with Peter Keibel and Carol DelGaudio

Name(s):  Peter Keibel and Carol DelGaudio

Family Members:  We have a son, Michael, and a daughter-in-law, Tricia.  Two of our favorite ExperiencePlus! bicycling trips (Greek Islands and Puglia) have been with them.

Age (be as vague as you wish):  52ish and 58ish
 
Where are some of the places you’ve gone with ExperiencePlus!?:  Italy, Greece, France, Ireland, Denmark, Czech Republic.  Each trip has been an adventure, and that's what we like best about traveling with ExperiencePlus!. While we know we are in goods hands with a tuned bicycle, an interesting route that is well-marked with arrows and a reservation at the end of the daily route, it's always an adventure each day as we take our time to explore the country and stop to check out gelaterias / pastry shops / etc.  We like traveling at our own pace - we are the founding members of the Slow Bike Movement whose aim is to maximize their time on their bikes. We also enjoy the companionship of our group as we share our daily stories during the group dinner. It is so much fun! 
  
Where does your love of the outdoors come from?:  We both went to outdoors camps when we were young. We have always hiked, camped and rode bikes. 
 
I understand that you make your own wine. How did you get started, any tips for the novice?:  Carol's brother-in-law Steve started making fruit wines and then started making wines from California grape juices.  Carol was very impressed by his success, and convinced Peter to give it a try.  

Eleven years later: Peter bottled our first dessert wine! Besides tasting delicious with dessert, Peter also uses this wine in his mushroom risotto to give it wonderful depth of flavor.
 
Where is your favorite travel destination and why?:  Italy - I love the friendly people we always meet, the great food, the delicious wines,  the beautiful scenery every day, and of course - gelato ! But Denmark was just so friendly for cyclist. The national bike route network and the fact that everyone rides made it Peter’s favorite country – besides the ability to taste herring seven different ways in one day.
 
 
Peter, we understand that professionally you are involved with the regulation of land development in your state and its impact on the environment. Can you provide us some details on this pertinent topic?  I work for the planning arm of the State of Vermont. Any commercial project or large subdivision (by Vermont standards that means greater than 6 lots) needs a state permit. We analyze all aspects of the project before issuing a permit. We look at the projects effects on water and air quality, endangered species, archaeology resources, impact on water resources, traffic impacts and energy conservation. The Law was innovative when it passed in the 70s but needs some updating now. Still it is good to guide people toward better projects that are more harmonious with their environment.
 
How are the two of you dealing with the price of gas? Has it changed your lives? Are you riding your bikes more?  It hasn't had a big effect.  Carol works full time at a home office (zero commuting costs!).  Peter bikes to work whenever there is no snow or the temperature is above 25 degrees, because he loves to bike!