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Room Talk - Let’s talk sleeping setups (because they matter!)
You’ve found a tour you’d love to join… but then you read “shared room” - and suddenly you’re hesitating. Totally normal.
We’ve talked to so many women who felt the same at first.
That’s exactly why we started our little Room Talk series - to answer the questions you might not want to ask, but still wonder about.
Here’s a quick roundup - honest, practical, and with a bit of humour too.


Think your diet’s too complicated for a group tour? Think again.
We get asked this more and more:
“I’d love to come – but with my food intolerances, will I even be able to eat with the group?”
We understand – and you’re not the only one. For many women, food isn’t “just food.” We get it – and we care.


Which cycling tour is right for you? 🚴♀️
We know it’s not easy to choose – especially when all four tours offer stunning scenery, small groups, home-style meals, and that special Sidetracks mix of fun, freedom, and feeling looked after.
To make it a little easier, we’ve written up a short guide to help you decide.


30 years in New Zealand & best months to travel
October 2025 marks a very special milestone for me – it’s been 30 years since I first landed in New Zealand to work as a tour guide. Here I share with you not only how my journey unfolded, but also my personal favourite months of travelling in beautiful Aotearoa New Zealand.


🥾 From rusty to ready: Hiking edition
When you picture yourself on a hike of 5–7 hours, do you wonder: Will I really manage the whole day?
The truth is – yes, you can!
With a few simple steps you’ll feel stronger, steadier, and ready to enjoy every view (not just the next rest stop).


Will I have to share a room? And… a bed??
If you’ve ever considered joining a women’s group tour as a solo traveller, chances are these questions have popped into your mind.
In this honest and friendly guide, we’re answering all those quiet concerns – from snoring to shared bathrooms – and showing what rooming on our tours really looks like.
Spoiler: no one shares a bed (unless you ask to 😉).
👉 Curious? Here’s what to expect – and why so many women end up saying, “That wasn’t nearly as scary as I thought!”


Everything You Need to Know About Our Early Bird Offer
Booking early means more than just saving money – it helps us plan better, confirms your spot sooner, and keeps your travel stress-free.
In this blog post, we explain how our Early Bird offer works, why it’s worth it, and how it benefits everyone involved.


Ebikes Are Now the Way to Go for Most Sidetracks Women Cycle Tours!
Ebikes are taking the cycling world by storm, and it’s easy to see why – they make cycling so much more fun and accessible!


The TranzAlpine | New Zealand's Most Scenic Train Ride
Experience the iconic TranzAlpine Express - a dream for many, now in reach for participants on our West Coast Wilderness Cycle Tour.


Island Hills Station Track - Unlocking the Mystery of QEII Covenants
Let us give you some insight into what this sign stands for and how QEII Covenants safeguard New Zealand’s ecological treasures.


How we crafted the ultimate Lakes, Fiords and Mountains cycling tour
How do you choose the perfect cycling tour?


Banks Peninsula's Stony Bay: An Enchanting Hideaway
A quirky and wonderful place awaits you near the half-way point of the Banks Peninsula Track.


The Truth About Sandflies: The Uninvited Guests of Nelson Lakes National Park
Learn everything you need to know about these pesky critters and how to outsmart them on your next adventure


Why do we include water activities in our tours?
Why we love being on the water and what sets our multi activity tour West Coast Special apart from our other tours


Roxburgh Gorge Cycle Trail - one of our Top 3 day rides in the South Island
Find out why this trail is one of our favourites! It's not only the spectacular views...


Pioneer Spirit and Uniqueness of the Kaikoura Coastal Track
The Kaikoura Coastal Track offers more than just stunning views. Learn more about its story here.


Can I do a Sidetracks Women cycle tour on a standard bike rather than an Ebike?
If this is a question you ask yourself, find out here what we have to say about mixing standard and Ebikes, and the reasons behind it.


West Coast Wilderness - Explore the Ancient Rainforest, Hear the Old Stories, and Create Your Own Adventures!
We think there is no more beautiful, wild, wonderful and adventurous place in New Zealand than the West Coast of the NZ.


Our Cycle Trail Grading System Explained
Wondering how challenging your cycle tour will be? Find all info you'll need about our simple grading system here.
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