This review is based on a bike tour experience I had a few years (before 2023 but Tripadvisor doesnt offer that drop-down option) ago in LA, and I’m writing it now because it left such a negative impression that it still affects my memory of that trip with my boyfriend. Before booking, I did my research carefully. I specifically looked for tours that catered to beginners, as I hadn’t ridden a bike in years and didn’t feel comfortable riding quickly through the city. I even emailed the company to confirm that they had experience working with people like me. They assured me that the tour would be a leisurely ride along the beach, not fast-paced or aggressive, and that I could expect a patient guide who would provide a relaxed experience with some interesting history along the way.
Unfortunately, that’s not what happened.
Our tour guide, whose name I can’t remember, had an Eastern European accent. What I do remember clearly is how impatient and dismissive she was. From the start, she barked orders at me to hurry up and seemed visibly frustrated with my slower pace. I felt as though I was a burden to her, even though I was the paying customer. Her attitude made me feel small and unwelcome, which was incredibly disappointing, especially since I had hoped for an enjoyable, relaxed experience.
After the tour, I found out that she had also yelled at my boyfriend. He noticed her behavior too, but didn’t tell me at the time for the same reason I didn’t mention my own frustration—we didn’t want to spoil the trip for each other.
Even now, years later, when I think back on that day, it still makes me angry. I deeply regret choosing this tour group. In hindsight, we would have been better off just renting bikes and exploring the beach on our own.
I believe the company should be more transparent and advertise this tour as being suitable only for experienced riders who are comfortable with a faster pace. If you’re looking for a relaxed, beginner-friendly bike tour, I would recommend looking elsewhere.