Interview: Pannier
We speak to Stefan Amato about his new cycle guide site Pannier and the future of travel.
For our latest Travel Journal we selected our favourite new publishers and asked them what they make of the future of travel. Here's Stefan Amato from the awesome cycle site, Pannier.
Tell us about yourself.
As well as being an architect at AAVA in London, I work with old friends Dave and Nick on Pannier - a fantastic new resource for the travelling cyclist. We present a visual and location specific collection of cycle-friendly places to stay along major cycle routes and at the growing number of cycling events, connecting the growing number of cyclists with local businesses.
Why did you decide to start the site?
Having understood what a fantastic way cycling was of seeing and experiencing places (and given that there wasn't a website that made the planning of cycle travel straightforward), the idea behind Pannier was to make cycle touring more accessible to cyclists of all levels. For us, 'Pannier' represents cycle travel and staying away with your bike. We believe it's not about the bike you ride, it is about the journeys you make on one.
Why do you think cycling has had such a resurgence in recent years?
Without being cliche, the three S's - Simplicity and beauty of life on two wheels, Sustainability, and Success in recent sporting events. In consumerist yet austere times - a bike has become another 'must have' for people, with many resorting to two wheels as a new way of saving on transport costs.
Do you think cycle travel has become more luxury in recent years?
The number of bespoke bike manufacturers and high-end apparel brands are making cycle travel more indulgent. However, technology is quickly alleviating the 'what if…' factor that might put people off - resources like ours are making the concept of cycle travel more accessible to cyclists. Ultimately luxury has to be determined by each individual.
Do you think hoteliers are increasingly catering towards cyclists?
Absolutely. From the research and feedback, many of our hosts have witnessed the increase in cycle tourism and have subsequently aimed to cater for cyclists. Pannier aims to cajole this trend, especially given the number of innovative cycle storage solutions. When we set up, we were really keen on establishing a network for both cyclists and hosts which we would then 'broadcast' via the website.
Do you think people are travelling differently nowadays?
Yes, we are able to travel to more remote places, more frequently, for shorter periods of time. However, importantly, we are combining travel with challenges or goals and with price an issue, are much more open to other forms of transportation. In an age of austerity, thrift based travel seems quite trendy.
How will the travel experience evolve in the next 5 years?
People are becoming more precious about their time and experience more than their money. The easing ability to research and share travel exploits with others will improve visions and scope for matching experiences. Oh and everyone will be arriving by bike.
Discussion