Internationale groepsreis Cycling the Cape & Winelands

WOW - whales!!!

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Achieving the longest day's cycling at 96km and spending time with like-minded people. Seeing the whales off of Hermanus.

What did you think of your group leader?

Group leader, Peter and our driver/cook were good company and very knowledgeable.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Prepare in advance - it is further to cycle than you think.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Do feel that this is more at a  B/C level of cycling not B

CYCLING THE CAPE & WINELANDS

A very well organised trip, cycling on good roads. It was a great introduction to South Africa.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Here are just a few... Working our way back to Cape Town via the coastal route. Cruising up and down sweeping hills in refreshing breezes and brilliant sunshine, constantly in awe of the stunning scenery. This was towards the end of our trip and also when we did our longest day of cycling - about 95km. Almost every cycle we did was rewarded with an opportunity to observe every day life. For example, stopping in Fishhoek to watch in anticipation as a group of fishermen slowly brought in their nets to reveal an enormous catch of yellowtail. Reaching the southern most point of Africa where the Indian and Atlantic oceans meet – looking out across a swirling of the seas, and a seemingly endless horizon, feeling as if you were at the end of the world! Wine tasting – especially good when you didn’t have to get back on the bike afterwards!

What did you think of your group leader?

Peter is a fantastic guy - he has run this trip many times before and clearly set out to make the whole experience as memorable as possible for everyone, ensuring that we got the most out of our cycling. He is passionate about cycling and had a good sense of the group’s requirements in terms of what we wanted to achieve on a daily basis. He was also very easy going – and nothing was too much trouble. Peter’s sense of pride in his country means that he has fantastic local knowledge and he was keen to for us to learn about the environment we were cycling in.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

This trip is graded as 'moderate' and I think it fair to say there was a lot of cycling involved, including one or two ‘monster’ hills!  But don't be put off -  after a couple of days of acclimatisation, you’ll find yourself wanting to do more and continually challenge yourself.  The longer rides were broken up into sections, the support vehicle was always around, ready with water and the appropriate snacks! The sense of achievement you feel at the end of trip is something else. That, and you see hills in a totally different light!

Is there anything else you would like to add?

The standard of accommodation throughout the trip was very high – mostly 3 star B&B’s and lodges but every place had its own character, along with all the basic amenities and more. We had a fantastic group of like-minded people, all wanting to achieve the same goal of completing the cycling challenges, whilst having fun at the same time – which we did (I hope everyone else agrees!). It was my first organised cycling holiday and one of the most amazing trips I’ve ever been on – I’m already planning the next one ;)

CYCLING THE CAPE & WINELANDS

A real cyclist's trip run by somebody who knows what cyclists want. Beats everything. (But Cuba, of course!)

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

The Mad Dogs and Englishmen ascent of the Franschoek pass at midday and 40C on the second day on the bikes. Up about 400m over 6km, not steep but long, rewarded by fantastic views and then the rush bombing down the other side! Cycling along the coast of False Bay - blue sky, deeper blue sea breaking on the rocks below and the mountains rising above us with the Cape of Good Hope across the bay. I nearly cried from the beauty of it. And then to round of our 90km day an optional dead-end 600m climb over 2kms just for the fun of it! Touched 40mph on the descent I think......

What did you think of your group leader?

A great guy who should be praised to the sky for this tour. Peter Albert has been running it for four years, continually tweaking it to find perfection. Short transfers, long hard rides, fantastic roads and scenery and excellent local knowledge. Good food, fine wines, great accommodation. Also very caring and considerate, clearly wants people to have as much fun as he is having.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

There is a lot of cycling on this tour, which is partly why I chose it, but it is cleverly planned that you build up your stamina and by the end everybody manages the 90km day with no problem. The real tough hills are optional extras, the bus is always there, but hey, you'll find you can do it! Also don't worry about drinking too much wine - just get back in that saddle and pedal it off! The wind - well it does blow in the Cape, but it just adds to the experience.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

If this tour ever runs anything other than full-up then Exodus should just pack up and go home. It has to be one of the best, if not the best, cycle tours going. It's a beautiful part of the country, full of mountain passes with excellent roads with big sweeping curves and not so much traffic, good food (ah, the fish!), fine wines and a tour leader who knows what cyclists want. Plus an excellent driver of the bus. And Tallis, big up to you too! Just book it! Dear Exodus, please, please arrange this tour so that the end of it coincides with the annual Argos bike race round the Cape. It would be so brilliant to finish the trip by joining the race. For us the race was on the second day in the Cape and just not a possibility. Also, the hire bikes can have SPD pedals so let peolpe know!!!!

CYCLING THE CAPE & WINELANDS

A well organised....classic road cycling trip with a few hills thrown in for fun......The hotels/lodges were  all great...food was great and south african wine even greater.....

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Cycling through Little Karoo...in intense heat..I loved it

What did you think of your group leader?

Peter was a great guy...organised, resourceful and good fun

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

The cycling was good....though it is  graded as a moderate....  do not be put off .....the heat and the occasional hill add to the challenge and the enjoyment of the cycling Also...like a previous person I think I would have like to have gone in the whale watching season at Hermanus  

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Go on this trip...this was my 12th Exodus trip ... my 9th biking trip and most probably the best

CYCLING THE CAPE & WINELANDS

What a fantastic trip. My wife and I had never done an organised cycle trip before so this was a first. The weather was good to us and the scenery was astounding.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Cycling up Chapmans Peak with no traffic, blue skies and the wind at our backs. Cycling heaven.

What did you think of your group leader?

A top bloke. Knew his subject(s) well and was able to judge the dynamic of the group very well too. Peter was able to take us up and down the mountian passes at whatever pace we liked and if we fancied more hill climbs at the end of the day then that was not a problem as well. There was even and incident where my wife left her ipod at a hotel we had stayed at on a previous night. We asked if Peter could call the hotel to see if they had found it and luckily they had. Peter drove back to the hotel and retreived it while we had dinner. Nothing was too much trouble.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Don't depend on the hotels/lodges along the trip to provide you with shower gel and shampoo. After saying that bear in mind that the standard of accommodation is quite good. We were expecting a lot less bang for our buck and we were pleasantly surprised. Don't expect air con anywhere (not that you'll really need it). If you're thinking about bringing your own bike fair enough but the mountain bikes that you can rent are well maintained by Peter and I was exceptionally happy with my Trek. They're well worn sure enough but everything works well and my standards for mechanical perfection are high. No need to bring an extra bottle cage - they all have two fitted. The roads are all perfect - nice smooth blacktop. Good news if you don't like offroad. Bad news if you've got a road bike at home - you'll miss it. If you like motorbikes then bring along your driving licence you're going to want to do a few of those twisties on a rental bike.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

It's a great trip and well organised. The customer service is excellent and the food is wonderful. The pace and days activity are perfectly timed. We would definitely go again. This was our second trip in Africa with Exodus and we were not disappointed.

CYCLING THE CAPE & WINELANDS

Fantastic trip - great cycling routes, and the extra activities (eespecially wine tasting and Cape Point) really made the holiday

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Chapman's Peak and False Bay rides are both absolute classics

What did you think of your group leader?

Excellent - clearly knew the route and area inside out. A very hard act to follow

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Some training in advance would make the holiday much more enjoyable. Most days are only 3-4 hours of cycling, but uphill and into the wind is not easy

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Prepare to face the "Cape Doctor" ...

CYCLING THE CAPE & WINELANDS

Some awesome scenery formed the backdrop to a great cycling trip.  A tough ride in parts but all the more rewarding for that.  Good exposure to many aspects of South Africa, from coast to interior, Cape Town, winelands and national parks.  A fair amount of self catering, accompanied by wine bought directly from the wineries was highly conducive to group bonding.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

The final mad dash from Hout's Bay into Cape Town, ending with an extremely happy group downing some euphoric beers on the waterfront...  The wonderful coastal roads from Betty's Bay to Gordon's Bay, as well as along the Cape Peninsula...  Being fit enough after more than a week's cycling to fly up Chapman's Peak (well, almost)... Long, fast, winding downhills leaving Franschoek and Barrydale.  Wrong time of year for whales, but penguins made up for that...

What did you think of your group leader?

Peter had been developing this trip for several years and had put a huge amount of care and thought into the itinerary, down to lovely little cafes and bars at critical points of the route.  Very knowledgeable about all aspects of the country.  The whole team, including a great driver, were extremely hardworking and passionate about their country.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Not an easy cycle, so don't come completely unprepared as it will probably hurt somewhat...  February is supposedly the hottest month, so if you struggle with heat then it might not be the best month to go; plenty of high factor sunscreen and water if you do.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

CYCLING THE CAPE & WINELANDS

This was a fantastic cycling experience with added dimensions (including great food, copious amounts of wine tasting and relaxing with a beer at the end of the days cycle). This trip was also made special by the people on the tour including the guide and driver. Both were knowledgeable and enthusiastic about their country.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Cycling on the last day along Chapmans Peak - surely has to be the best coastal road ever. The standard of all the scenery is awe inspiring so take a wide angle lens. But the last day is just pure magic.

What did you think of your group leader?

Group leader was enthusiastic, knowledgeable and a delight to be with.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Be aware that the cycling is on main roads at all times and even though the roads have been choosen carefully to be as quiet as possible, there is still traffic around. So I would only recommend this tour if the person was confident to cycle in traffic. I would also recommend to go on this trip when it is whale watching season. I didn't and I wish I had. Hermanus is a wonderful town but I think it would have been amazing to see the whales too. So book a trip when you can guarantee to see whales.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

CYCLING THE CAPE & WINELANDS

Cycling the Cape WinelandsHI fellow cyclists, I have now completed 8 Exodus cycling trips which i have to say were all very different, but great trips, I never had a bad Exodus trip, and once cycled never forgotten.But I have to tell you about the Cape trip. Firstly the Exodus notes really do not do this trip justice. The views are simply breathtaking and the accomadation is the best on any trip that I have done, the cycling is not too difficult, and Chapmans Pass on the last day is spectacular, and the S/A guide Peter was amazing and nothing was ever too much trouble for him, he actually worked out the route which i have now done twice and guess what? The second trip was even better than the first, how about that.So if your looking for a really FAB cycling trip, do the S/A Cape trip iI can't recomed it more highly, t's the best.David BrodieCycling the Souther beaches of India.The guide Peter was great, and made us all feel welcolm from the moment we meet at the airport, he really is a great Guy. The trip is fantastic too, and every day is very different, the cycling was not difficult and varied, with only one huge hill which climed to the top of the world covering 36 hairpin bends, not for the faint of heart, but fantastic.I recomend that you do this trip, it'd amazing with some nice suprises along the way.David Brodie.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Cycling like a loon up and around Chapmans Pass on the last day of the South african trip.

What did you think of your group leader?

I liked both leaders on the India and south Africa Cape trips very much they were both called Peter, they both were most helpfull and never was anything too much bother for them, both were professional and careing about there work, in fact i would go to say that they had huge pride in the trip that they had both marked out. I am glad to say that they are now both my friends and welcolm at my place in England anytime.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

India, Yep you must take all precautions in the towns and villages not to get a bad tummy, i rinsed my hands with disenfectant alchol cream all the time to avoid germs, and if your cycling talent is limited dont be shy not to attempt cycling the impossible, it's OK to take it easy when the ride is too tough.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Yep, as i have now done 8 Exodus trips from Vietnam to Cuba,I feel that i have earned the authotity to express my views. Firstly i have never had a bad trip, and all the local guides have been amazing, some i wanted to take home with me. If i were asked my favourite it would be difficult as they are all so very different, and once you have cycled from say Saigon to Hanoi, you have done it, and no point doing it twice if you get my drift, but I have done the South African Cape trip with Peter the local guide twice and i will do it again in 2010, knees willing, it really is a fantastic trip, and I can't recomend it more highly, certainly it's a very good starter trip if you have not cycled before, but beware you will be spoilt, as the scenery food and accomadation is exceptional. David Brodie.

CYCLING THE CAPE & WINELANDS

A great trip.  The cycling routes were well chosen with generally little traffic.  Beautiful and varied scenery in an interesting country.  Don't miss the opportunity to take this trip.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Perhaps the most inspirational moment was free-wheeling down Chapman's Peak above the Indian Ocean or it might have been seeing the whale mother and her calf during a beach walk in Hermanus.  There were many "moments" we'll remember for a long time.

What did you think of your group leader?

Our group leader was friendly, enthusiastic, knowledgeable and a very good cook.  He chose specific rides each day based on the most interesting parts of the route and the weather.  Peter seemed much more like a close friend to each of us than simply a group leader.  We couldn't have asked more of him.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Consider booking the Robben Island tour before you arrive if you're interested in it.  Also, we added a few days of safari game drives at the end of the cycling and this added another dimension to our trip.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Go for the cycling, the scenery, the wine and Amarula and the chance to immerse yourself in a country with both an interesting past and an interesting future.

CYCLING THE CAPE & WINELANDS

One of the best holidays I have ever had.  Scenery was amazing, the cycling was challenging especially those hill climbs and the wine tasting was not too bad either.  Thoroughly recommend this holiday.   

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Cycling through the mountains after the night stop at Barrydale.  Lots of rain and lots of great big hills.

What did you think of your group leader?

Very knowledgeable of the area, the cycling routes and the history of the Cape. 

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Wear padded shorts.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Fabulous country, very friendly people and excellent wine and food.  This is a holiday which does what it says on the tin, lots of cycling and lots of excellent scenery.  Money well spent. 

Wheels, Wines & Waves

A great trip; at times the weather was a little on the warm side for cycling. A fun mix of cycling, wine, food and sightseeing and the overall experience was made even better by a great group of people.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

The natural beauty of this area of South Africa was very inspiring, particularly cycling along the Coast and hearing the crashing of the waves and admiring the power of the sea. Inland, the ride from Barrydale along the gorge was also spectacular. Hermanus was also a main highlight and we will definitely come back here on a future trip.

What did you think of your group leader?

Peter was a great leader and quick to change plans when needed - as this trip was over Christmas and New Year, some of the restaurants that would normally be used were closed and he was able to adapt plans at short notice. On Christmas day, as an extra that was not on the official itinerary, he chose the perfect place for us all to have a glass of bubbles together, overlooking Cape Agulhas. He is a kind and thoughtful guide who always tries hard to meet the very varied requests from the group – at times this is an impossible task!

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Go with the flow. This advice goes for this trip and any other Exodus trip – the trip notes should be taken as a guide rather than a rigid itinerary and if anything changes just enjoy it. Some of our best experiences on this trip were changes made at short notice, such as finishing our last day of riding at the top of Signal Hill with a drink, overlooking Cape Town. Apart from a couple of optional hills the riding was not too hard and is accurately described as moderate.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

An extra few days in Cape Town would be good – half a day at the beginning and end of the trip is not enough time to see Robben Island, Table Mountain, V&A Waterfront and other attractions.

Cycling the Vineyards and Wineries

No matter how much reading you do, you can never be totally prepared for any cycle tour. There are always surprises in store and of course the people you meet, the guides and fellow cyclists are a key factor in the ultimate overall experience. The scenery on this tour was dramatic and at times absolutely fabulous, especially in the 2nd half when we returned to Cape Town along the coast. There were times when the weather was a little difficult and on one stretch of coastline with mountainous cliffs on one side and a sheer drop to the sea on the other, we were frequently 'blown about' or stopped in our tracks by the wind in our faces. It all added to the excitement and sheer enjoyment of the cycling, it certainly wasn't boring! The guides were excellent, they didn't allow us to cycle when it was too dangerous but at the same time we were able to tackle some demanding climbs and descents and the cycling was generally just within the capabilities of the group.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Although we weren't there at the right time for Whale watching, we spotted a school of Dolphins one day on a descent down towards Cape Town on the coast road down the mountains and stopped to take photos and watch them (200+) swimming along in front of us!!

What did you think of your group leader?

The group leader Talis was very able and capable. He allowed us to enjoy the challenge of each days cycling, while making sure that the risks were kept within acceptable boundaries. We had many enjoyable stops for food, coffee, beers etc and he ensured we sampled as much local culture as we could in the time allowed. His judgement was excellent, making sure that decisions about where and when to stop, what to eat and safety did not impact on our enjoyment of the cycling while taking full account of the varying skill and fitness levels of all participants.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Don't be afraid to do this trip. I wondered about security in South Africa but I felt that Cape Town and the surrounding area had more of a Mediterranean feel to it and never felt 'threatened' once.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

If you've never been on a cycling trip, this would be a good one. However, there was some climbing on every day so, make sure you've done some training. Unless of course you're like me - two days in the saddle and my legs are 'about right' for a tour of this difficulty. A bit of time spent training for the rides would have saved a little 'pain' on those first two days. Either way, if you haven't done it before, why the devil not?!

SOUTH AFRICA: CYCLING THE CAPE & WINELANDS

The vital aspect of any Exodus trip is the mix of the group. This was no different; 13/14 folks eager to get on, and one awkward $*?ck£r ... there is always one! (his name available on request)Plus a great guide and driver.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Cycling Chapmans Peak, and seeing the views to Nordhoek and Houts Bay.

What did you think of your group leader?

Peter (Albert) handled most situations very well and always in a calm manner.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Definitely do this trip, but ask for the premier accommodation version.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Best trip ever! Scenery fantastic; weather wonderful; exchange rate helpful; food and wines awesome. Definitely going back. Hey Exodus ... how about cycling Namibia ? Windhoek/Walvis Bay/down to Cape Town ... make it a camping trip (rather than using low-grade accomm)

Cycling the Western cape and Winelands.

Excellent trip, totally wonderful experience. The cycling was great but be prepared to be cycling into a head wind most days! Accomdation overall was excellent but 2/3 nights were less so. Lovely scenery and plenty of wildlife to spot.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Highlights included spotting whales, cycling chapmans peak and visiting table mountain. Cycling the coast was fantastic, with some great views and some great climbs.

What did you think of your group leader?

Group leader and support driver were both excellent. Super organised, full of energy and enthusiasm. Nothing was too much trouble. We were well looked after from day 1.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Take some layers, it's a cold wind at times. Food is excellent value for money and eating out is not expensive. If you like wine, this trip will suit you!

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Cycling The Cape and Winelands

As an Exodus cycling 'virgin', I could not envisage a better initiation both in terms of this trip's varied, action-packed itinerary and the camaraderie speedily-established (and splendidly alcohol-fuelled!). The Western Cape is a land of beauty and fascination and I relished exploring it so ably facilitated and in such merry and stimulating company.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

The trip incorporated many contrasting scenic delights and cycling through the immaculate verdancy of the winelands, the rugged grandeur of the mountain passes and along the wild and sunbaked coast was a joy. The variety of accommodation, some in spectacular locations, some enchantingly quirky, added to the african experience. The essence of the pleasure, though, was sharing all the different experiences within such a friendly group.

What did you think of your group leader?

Our leader, Wynand, struck the perfect balance between responsible guide and sociable group member. His detailed knowledge of our route and the cultural/social/historical/environmental facets of the region greatly enhanced our understanding and appreciation. Organisation and safety consciousness were impeccable, engendering trust in his ability to handle all eventualities. He delivered guidance with sensitivity and instructions without officiousness, working tirelessly throughout the tour yet still finding the energy to add to the conviviality of the group.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Do it!

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Cycling the Cape and Winelands

This was an excellent tour taking in breathtaking views, lovely scenery, hills and valleys, wine and beer-tasting, varied accommodation, ocean-swimming, penguin and whale-watching, history, geography, nature studies and excellent food at exceptionally low cost.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

There was so much that was inspiring. I loved some of the routes that we cycled, especially along the beautiful coastline, the winelands, and around the Cape peninsula. The wines were universally delicious and such good value, probably the best value anywhere in the world.

What did you think of your group leader?

Our group leader met us at the airport and it was immediately apparent that he was jolly and enthusiastic. What more can you ask of a group leader? Well, he did give more. He was hard-working, efficient, caring, knowledgeable about geography, history, nature and all matters to do with South Africa. He was also an excellent cook. His primary aim was always to allow us to have an excellent holiday. The whole group very much liked him and also the African driver who did so much more than just drive. He sorted out food and bikes and was very helpful about letting us know about African customs, culture, languages and history. He was universally appreciated by the group for his warm and affectionate nature.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

The rides are excellent and sometimes breath-taking, but they can sometimes be very windy. Nervous or weaker riders may not appreciate the strong winds, but an average rider should have no problems. We rarely had to get off our bikes and push and it was not for more than a minute or two around a headland.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

All in all, an excellent and varied holiday which is exceptionally good value for money. I would recommend this holiday to anyone who likes cycling on undulating roads, and appreciates good scenery, good food and wine, history, geography and nature.

cycling the cape

the views are fantastic the cycling is good but I was a bit disappointed with the tour guide he either wanted to cook for us or take us to a restaurant of his choice so we never had a chance to look around the towns we visited. It would have been nice to have a choice a few evenings just to do your own thing .

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

The highlight was seeing the Right Whales. Was one of the most beautiful places I have visited

What did you think of your group leader?

I think he needs a change

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Watch out for the strong winds

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Cycling the Cape and Winelands

A wonderful trip in a beautiful country with wine, beer and brandy tastings included.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Cycling the coast roads to Simonstown and Hout Bay with mountains on one side and the beautiful blue of the ocean on the other. The walk and cycle on the Cape of Good Hope. Drinking champagne and watching the sun go down on Signal Hill

What did you think of your group leader?

Very knowledgeable and hardworking, neither he or Sofiso seemed to get much time to rest between cooking breakfast, lunch and dinners, mending bikes, looking after us and coping with problems caused by the Cape Argos cyclists.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Do try a bit of hill training and prepare for cycling against the wind. You may find the heat difficult at times but it gets easier as you acclimatise.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

I think having three people on the trip would have made things a lot easier for our leader and driver who had to be leader, mechanic, cook, driver, problem solver and entertainments officers.

Cycling the Cape & Winelands

South Africa is certainly a place you can easily fall in love with. Great wine, great food and perfect cycling on gorgeous long undulating roads. Although there are a couple of short steep climbs they are certainly doable providing you have a good level of fitness. I finally conquered hill climbing without stopping just going at my own pace, in fact Chapmans Peak was so amazing I wanted to go back down and climb it again. Our guides ensured our safety at all times and looked after us very well, from organising lunches to sorting restaurants for dinner in particular our favourite liquorice allsorts snack. If you love cycling and wine then you'll love this trip!!! Made also great by a lovely bunch of people.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

The mountainous scenery and whale watching was the most spectacular.

What did you think of your group leader?

Our guide Tallis was fantastic ensuring our safety at all times allowing us to enjoy the cycling at our own pace whilst ensuring the group was all together at various points. He was very knowledgeable and nothing was too much trouble if you wanted/needed something he would ensure he did his best to provide it. Both he and Seviso cooked for us on occasions depending on the lodgings or lunch stops and this was excellent, they both joined in with the group too.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Just enjoy the ride and the wind!!!!!!!

Is there anything else you would like to add?

The weather can be changeable so be prepared for every eventuality.