Every single tour has got it's own stories, and most likely a lot of them. And one of them has to be the best. Missed flights, lost credit card or almost lost cell phone were far too shallow to beat this one.

Howard Strode from Ontario, Canada, happened to be on a tour through the Alps in Austria with Edelweiss Bike Travel, exactly at the time of the 30 Year Anniversary of the motorcycle tour operator. So the group went to the mega party having a lot of fun. They also participated at a paper chase and all the names were thrown into the raffle. Howie was having beers with his new friends when Karin from Edelweiss Headquarters called him to pick up his price. But having fun and beer was more important until he was told to pick up the main price. And here he came......

What were your first thoughts about the prize?

I was hoping to win a blue tee shirt with only 4 stamps I thought I had no chance I was so happy I went back to my room and cried . South Africa, never in my wildest dreams did I see myself going there! All drinks of buddy riders and the guides were free that night.

What were your expectations of that far away country?

I spoke to my South African friends, who couldn't say enough about the beauty and the friendliness of the people.

Were your expectations fulfilled?

What they didn't tell me about was the fabulous riding. I thought the Alps were the best, South African roads rival the best roads in Europe. At the end of the day it was hard to wipe the smile off my face. We were tired, but could not wait to get back at it the next day. As usual the tour was first class. Great bikes, love my 1200 GS, want one! My LT is no match with the mighty GS! The hotels, the food, and best of all, my riding buddies and our guide Markus were the best.

What were the specials of the tour for you?

Sitting beside a pride of seven lions for ten minutes mere meters away, bungy jumping off the world record bridge, eating wild foods like biltong , kudu, ostriche, impala, Zulu beer, and best of all, stick fighting with a Zulu warrior.

Thanks for the interview

Howie makes friends everywhere