I love cycling — but was intimidated by bike traffic in Rotterdam.
Netherlands has the highest bike ownership in the world, with over 24 million bicycles for a population of 18 million people, and cycling makes up roughly 27% of all daily trips nationwide.
Over 35,000 kilometers of segregated red-asphalt cycle paths, dedicated traffic lights, and continuous bike routes.
In 2011, I was nothing but impressed.
But in 2026 … I find the higher speed eBikes too dangerous.
Helmets are not required.
I saw people in the busy city texting while on an electric bike at 25km / hour or more.
For some years, cyclists represent the largest share of traffic fatalities (281 deaths), outpacing passenger car occupants (228 deaths).
At least 41% of those killed while cycling were riding an e-bike, and the sharpest increase in deaths occurred specifically among men aged 70 and older. I’m age-68.
Fatbikes ridden by young men seemed the biggest danger to me.
In general, having a bad dictator-for-life (Putin, Xi) means most of the population will suffer. The dictator keeps most of the money for himself, family, and oligarchs.
This is what Trump is trying to do, emulating Putin, Xi, and Kim Jong Un.
BUT China has definitely proved to be the exception to the rule.
Over the past few decades, China and Russia have experienced one of the most stark economic divergences in modern history.
In 1990, the Soviet Union possessed a larger, more technologically advanced industrial base and far higher per capita income than an agrarian, impoverished China. By 2026, the tables turned entirely: China’s nominal GDP reached approximately $20.6 trillion (the world’s 2nd largest), while Russia’s GDP stood at $2.5 trillion.
—meaning China’s economy is now more than eight times larger than Russia’s.
It’s obvious to everyone that China has done more to improve life for the massive population than has Russia.
Yet Russia is 1.7 times the size of USA with massive resources. Russia is a huge economic disappointment, ranking behind Germany, Japan, United Kingdom, India, France, and Italy.
I’m surprised that China’s takeover of Tibet (1950 invasion), Macau (1999), and Hong Kong (1997) have gone as well as they have. I predicted worse outcomes.
Russian invasion of Ukraine will NOT result in a better quality of life for citizens.
I’ve been boycotting China in recent years. BUT will return in 2027 for the World Gymnastics Championships.
Hiking great. 17 days in the tent, walking deserts in California and Nevada.
Cycling was the most problematic. But I still made it 11 days on the Trans Canada Great Trail, starting in Vernon and ending up in Fernie (with a busted bike).
What’s next?
Still considering my options.
The only thing fixed for sure is World Gymnastics Championships in Netherlands Oct. 2026.
Cost CAD $584.85 for unlimited skiing at SunshineMonday through Thursday.
Enjoy unlimited access Monday through Thursday to Canada’s Best Spring Skiing starting March 8th all the way until Slush Cup Monday May 18th with a Banff Sunshine Midweek Spring Pass.
I got my money’s worth in 2026 with 12 days on the hill.
Luckily for me Banff Sunshine Village had a historic season with 812 cm (26 feet) of total season snow.
I usually follow the same sequence of lifts if the snow is good:
warm-up run on Angel
multiple runs on Standish
multiple runs on Wawa (my favourite lift)
Banff Avenue to base of Goat’s Eye base. Quick lunch.
one or more runs on the Ski Out to the parking lot
Goat’s Eye for the rest of the afternoon
Favourite run is Eagle Creek – end of day when snow is often softer
Ski Out to the parking lot
Eagle Creek
These days my goal is NOT to fall and get hurt, so I stay mostly on Blues and easy Black Diamond.
I try not to have my skis leave the ground. 😀
Happily, I had only one fall in 12 days. No injuries.
When picking up my pass at Sunshine Village, I noticed there is a Senior (age 65+) year long pass that’s even cheaper if you buy it mid-season, and good every day of the week. (It’s no longer advertised this late in the season — but I might buy that one instead next year.)
If I was 45 years younger, with an Aussie accent, I’d fit right in with the real ski bums & snow bunnies spending their winter in Banff.
Sponsored by HellyHansen and Gorilla Duct Tape 😀 (A.I. photo)
There are 3 hostels in Banff, by far the least expensive accommodation.
I usually stay at Samesun Banff, about CAD $200 for 3 nights in a 6 bed dorm. With breakfast.
Free ski bus picks up and drops off on the same block. So convenient.
Spring is a fantastic time to be in Banff. It’s so beautiful — without the crowds.
No photo editing.
One highlight for me is watching Elk wander town.
When I’m not skiing, I’m HIKING. Spring hiking can be magical.
I’m staying closer to home due to Trump’s stupid, unnecessary war.
Starting my 4th week of skiing out of Banff.
I have a permit to backpack a couple of weeks on the world’s best long thru hike – the Pacific Crest Trail. Starting May 26th out of Palm Springs, California.
AND I want to get back to Banff by June 12th (or shortly after) to start the Tour Divide – the world’s most famed long distance cycling route Canada to Mexico.
I won’t be trying for Mexico.
From Missoula, Montana I’ll divert to Idaho. And on to Kelowna, B.C. for a reunion with lifelong friends.
