Why You Should Definitely Go on that Cycling Trip: Tips and Experiences from Maxine Tan and Ameline Tan

From tips for mountainous terrains and coastal highways to their best memories, Maxine Tan and Ameline Tan shared with SportPlus.sg all you need to know about cycling holidays

PHOTO VIA MAXINE TAN AND AMELINE TAN

There’s just a magic to exploring a destination on two wheels, and it can't be emulated in any other way. With the wind wrapping around you like a familiar embrace and the freedom to venture onto unpaved paths, every ride holds the promise of unexpected discoveries and new adventures.

 Away from the rush of highways and crowded tourist spots, cycling holidays offer a slower, more intimate way of discovering landscapes—from winding coastal roads and misty mountain passes to quiet village trails where time seems to stand still. Whether it’s the thrill of conquering a climb, the joy of pedalling past hidden gems, or the simple, steady sound of wheels on the road, these journeys turn travel into an adventure powered by nothing more than your own legs and going out there to see the world.

Maxine Tan and Ameline Tan are no strangers to the thrill of it all. From pedalling up to the highest point of Thailand and Taiwan to the coastal villages of Jeju, South Korea, the journeys of the women have introduced them to countless people and unforgettable experiences along the way. The duo reminisced about some of their fondest memories while sharing tips and tricks for exploring the world on wheels.

The benefits of cycling trips, and why you should definitely book that trip you've been contemplating

How can cycling trips benefit people mentally and physically?

PHOTO VIA AMELINE TAN

Maxine: Cycling trips are honestly the best reset button. Physically, yes, they push your endurance and make you stronger, but it’s the mental aspect that I really treasure. It helps me connect with what’s within me and allows me to just be present—absorbing whatever challenges I come across and taking in my surroundings. 

“I’m just present with my breath, the road, and the breathtaking views,” I tell myself—moving meditation.

Ameline: Mentally, the change of scenery is a great break from daily routines. You’re out exploring places most people wouldn’t normally go or even stop by. There are often little surprises along the way, and that sense of the unknown brings a lot of unexpected joy.

Physically, it’s a great challenge. You must prepare for tough routes, steep climbs, and even strong winds (it’s like resistance training on the move). But pushing through those moments makes you stronger, both in body and in mindset.

How efficient has it been for you as a cyclist, incorporating holidays with cycling training?

Maxine: Recently, holidays for me double up as training camps. Instead of thinking I’m losing fitness while traveling, I come home stronger and with new miles and experiences in my legs. But more than that, training in new environments makes the whole experience feel less like training and more like adventure. It’s super efficient—tiring but joyful.

PHOTO VIA MAXINE TAN

Ameline: I get to explore new places while staying consistent with my fitness. The change in terrain, weather, and scenery keeps things interesting, and riding in unfamiliar places challenges me in ways that regular training at home doesn’t, especially on longer or tougher routes. Plus, it just feels more enjoyable and motivating when you're riding through beautiful landscapes instead of looping the same roads back home.

In what ways does cycling make it easier to venture into rural areas and explore the world’s lesser-known roads?

Maxine: There’s nothing like exploring on two wheels. A bike lets you cover so much ground but at a pace where you still notice everything—like the culture of certain places, the sound of mountains and villages where it’s quiet and where cars can’t get into. Some of my favorite discoveries have been completely unplanned, which I’d never have found without my bike. It feels like the most intimate way to really experience a place.

PHOTO VIA MAXINE TAN

How important is it for people to explore unpaved roads and areas, and meet people from all over the world?

Maxine: For me, the rides are never just about the routes, they’re about the experience. Every meeting, every shared meal, every random chat along the way is what makes the trip meaningful. Traveling like this shows me how universal connection really is. Even if you don’t speak the same language, there’s always a smile, a gesture and a level of kindness that really stays with you. That’s why I think it’s so important to keep exploring. It expands your world and your heart. 

What can you learn about cycling by venturing out to cycle overseas and not just in Singapore?

Maxine: Riding overseas teaches you adaptability. The roads are different, cycling etiquette is different, and sometimes the weather throws you curveballs. You have to adjust fast. That’s where you grow not just as a cyclist, but as a person. Each overseas ride has made me tougher, more resourceful, and more confident. It reminds me that being outside your comfort zone is where the real learning happens.

PHOTO VIA AMELINE TAN

Ameline: The terrain outside Singapore is more varied–you get long climbs, high altitudes, changing weather, and different road conditions, all of which push you out of your comfort zone and build adaptability. Compared to the more predictable routes in Singapore, overseas cycling feels more like an adventure. You’re navigating new routes, dealing with different traffic, and sometimes even language barriers.

Favourite cycling trips from the past, and what's next

What has been your favourite cycling trip so far?

Maxine: My favourite trip so far has to be Taiwan. I went there with one main mission on my birthday: to attempt the climb up Wuling, which is often called the holy grail of climbs in Asia. At over 3,275 metres above sea level, it’s the highest paved road in Taiwan, a bucket-list climb for cyclists around the world.

PHOTO VIA MAXINE TAN

The ride itself is brutal but beautiful. It starts from sea level, and you just keep climbing for hours, passing through changing landscapes — bustling towns, misty forests, and eventually into high mountain air where every pedal stroke feels like death. The weather was another hurdle. One moment you’re sweating, and the next you’re shivering as you get higher. It had the perfect mix—breathtaking views, climbs that were out of this world, and moments off the bike that grounded me in the culture. The thing I’ll always remember is how hard it was and how exhausted I was but the view was so stunning, it made me forget the pain. These are the moments that remind me I can do hard things!

Ameline: Both Chiang Mai and Jeju are my favourite cycling trips in Asia! The next Asian destinations on my list are Japan and Taiwan.

Ameline, As someone who has cycled up to Thailand’s highest point and Jeju’s coastal roads, how different do the differences in scenery make you feel?

PHOTO VIA AMELINE TAN

Ameline: Both rides felt completely different. The mountain climb is usually a long solo ride, everyone goes at their own pace, so you’re often just with your thoughts. It’s peaceful, and I love that sense of disconnect—like I’m stepping away from the world to reconnect with myself. And of course, reaching the top and taking in that view after the effort feels amazing.

Coastal routes like Jeju are a completely different vibe. It’s more relaxed and social. We ride together more often, stop at sea-view cafes, pass through small towns, explore local landmarks. There’s always something new to see. It’s less about pushing your limits and more about soaking in the journey.

Maxine, you’re embarking on a trip to the remote mountains of Japan soon, what are you looking forward to most?

Maxine: For my upcoming Japan trip, my partner and I will be riding in the Mt. Akagi region, a rural and mountainous area known for quiet backroads and tough climbs. I’ve mapped out routes like the Nagusa Shrine and Ashikaga Loop for a mix of culture and cycling, and the Double Akagi for a real test of endurance. What excites me most is the peaceful countryside rides, challenging mountain switchbacks, and ending the day with onsens in our Ryokan and local Japanese food.

Beating the taboo that comes with adventure travelling as women

With more women embarking on cycling adventures these days, how much safer have such trips become as compared to a few years ago?

PHOTO VIA AMELINE TAN

Maxine: A few years back, people would often tell me it wasn’t “safe” for women to go off cycling in the mountains or going on solo adventure trips. Honestly, that narrative still exists, but it feels different now. More women are out there, taking on long hikes, bikepacking, overseas cycling trips, and that visibility alone makes such a difference. You don’t feel like it’s a taboo anymore. I think the rise of community awareness, shared routes with clear instructions and even companies offering self supported trips make it possible. Safety is still important, of course but I feel empowered now, not restricted.

Ameline: I think the idea that adventure travel is too risky for women, especially solo, is really starting to shift. I’ve noticed a big change, especially after Covid. There’s a lot more information out there now, and it’s easier to find local guides or tips from people who’ve done the same trips. Plus, seeing other women share their journeys on social media really helps too.

Of course, I still take precautions. I’ll usually travel with a group of friends or engage a local guide, depending on the route. In a lot of places across Asia, I’ve found people to be incredibly welcoming and supportive.

Tips and tricks of cycling up to the mountains and through coastal towns

What are some tips you would give to someone wanting to plan a cycling holiday?

PHOTO VIA MAXINE TAN

Maxine: Do your homework on the routes, terrain, and weather. Plan, research, watch heaps of youtube videos of the places you are going! Get your bike serviced before flying, and bring your essentials like spares, tools, and nutrition (Pure, Precision Fuel by Simply Active) that you trust. Build in recovery days so you can actually soak in the culture, not just focusing on riding because takes the joy out of the holiday. And most importantly, stay flexible and don’t beat yourself up because of the unforeseen circumstances that come your way!

What are three tips you would give to someone wanting to go on a cycling trip to somewhere more coastal?

Ameline: Be ready for the wind. Coastal routes can be super windy, from all directions. You’ll need to stay alert and hold your bike steady, especially if you're near traffic or barriers.

Don’t underestimate the effort. Even if the route looks easy on paper, wind resistance can make you work twice as hard to maintain your usual speed. It can be surprisingly tough.

Dress smart. Weather can change quickly along the coast—sunny one minute, chilly or rainy the next. Layer up and bring a rain jacket to stay comfortable and protected.

What are three tips you would give to someone who wants to go on a cycling holiday to somewhere more mountainous?

PHOTO VIA AMELINE TAN

Ameline: Set up your bike for climbing. Switch to a mountain-friendly cassette or crankset. If you’re using the wrong gearing, you’ll suffer unnecessarily, or you might not even make it to the top.

Pace yourself. Don’t burn out early. Keep a steady, sustainable effort. Using a power meter or heart rate monitor really helps avoid going too hard too soon.

Know the route. Study the elevation profile ahead of time so you can anticipate steep sections and manage your energy. It makes a huge difference when you know what’s coming.