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Tours, Events & Experiences
INTRODUCING THOMSON SPECTATOR TOURS
Thomson Spectator tours are designed to get you on the inside of the world’s major cycling events, with events like the Tour Down Under, the Tour of California and the grand tours taking pride of place. Thomson also has a unique relationship with Qhubeka; this allows the guests exclusive access to Team Dimension Data across a whole range of events.
Thomson's super guide, Jacinta designs all spectator tours. Jacinta has been taking groups to events for over eight years, building up excellent relationships with many of the Directeur Sportifs, riders, commentators and industry professionals to provide what is indeed a unique experience.
Jacinta has worked in hospitality for 28 years in Spain, Italy & France and has guided Grand Tours for years. Known and loved by everyone on the pro-scene, she prides herself on intricate planning, a vast knowledge of how the tours work, insider tips, a knack to make things happen, and a great sense of fun and humour.
BROWSE THE SPECTATOR TOUR RANGE
SPECTATOR TOUR INCLUSIONS
Each spectator tour can be refined to be as bespoke as you, the guest likes. Spectator tours are conducted across a whole range of events throughout the year with 2020 seeing the introduction of the Tour Down Under, Tour of California, the spring classics, and all of the grand tours to name a few. Examples of standard inclusions, or the "Thomson difference" are as below;
VIP Departure Village & Team Paddock
Thomson gives guests entrance into the Departure Village, where all the reporters, sponsors and tour staff congregate pre-race. Expect to bump into past race winners, current team riders and VIP's as you sample local delights and snacks. The teams arrive a couple of hours before the start of the race as the crowds gather behind the barriers; while you are free to mingle with exclusive access. You can see the team buses arrive, mix with the press outside the coaches, watch the cyclists warm-up and sign-in and grab some photos and autographs!
Meeting the Pro Teams and race celebrities
Thomson, and it's relationship with Team Dimension Data has unparalleled access to the races, and as such, you have incredible opportunities to meet cyclists. Spectator tours can include a team meet while others may consist of VIP access to the departure village. All you have to do is decide WHO you want to achieve and make it your mission on these occasions. While the team at Thomson can’t promise you’ll see the ‘one’ – Jacinta is an expert in making things happen!
Mid-race VIP viewing point
Thomson Spectator tours go to the effort of setting up dedicated mid-race viewing points for guests to enjoy during selected stages or events. These viewing points often feature shade, or protection from the weather, a comfy perch and screens with race coverage to keep track of the riders out on course. Mixed in with this is a party type atmosphere roadside, and these "in the thick of it" viewing points are widely regarded as the highpoints of a trip.
VIP Finishline
Stage and race finishes are usually highly complex to access. Thomson avoids the crowds and enjoys the VIP area, yards from the finish line. Still being immersed in the electric atmosphere but viewing in comfort, sipping complimentary drinks & eating nibbles, with a roadside view and a VIP viewing platform! Often there will be Private tables, outdoor seating, and tiered viewing platforms, meaning you can spectate in style. Thomson Bike Tours is well known to the technical teams, and on occasion, tours can be arranged of the technical village which adjoins the VIP area.
Own race-viewing days
Finally, there are days on each trip where you can go off on your own and experience the racing with the crowds of local fans. It’s a fantastic way to sample the true spirit of cycling fandom.
This is Sponsored Content, created in conjunction with Thomson Bike Tours.
For more information, including details on riding tours as well as spectator tours, check out Thomson Bike Tours.
