- Tell us more about The Art of Bicycle Trips and how this whole novel idea originated?
Art of Bicycle Trips offers a simple and unique way to experience the real India. We design unique bicycle safaris exploring the culture, historic sites, architecture, ethnic diversity, scenic beauty, remote villages and realities of daily life of India. Each bicycle safari is unique, has a mix of adventure activities and highlights the diversity and most interesting facets of the region. While we handle every detail and provide you all the conveniences, there is a beautiful cycling holiday to enjoy.
We follow a Triple Bottom Line concept balancing the markets and values. The triple bottom line is made up of "social, economic and environmental". We have designed our business in such a way so that we could be financially profitable, socially beneficial and ecologically sustainable.
The idea was born during our first 100km bicycle trip from Bangalore to Bhimeshwari. For some, bicycle is a utility and for others, a revelation of human potential and endurance. For us, cycling is a new and unique experience. {modal url=http://theartofbicycletrips.wordpress.com/2010/06/28/three-riders-on-bicycle/}Here is how{/modal} I have made an effort to describe the experience that we felt during the trip.
Here is how he summarized the vision and mission for ABT:
Vision: To be a globally respected cycling holiday company that produces social and environmental values for society.
Mission: To make bicycle trips as an intimate alternative experience in adventure travel.
- HHow did you go about setting it up and popularising it?
We just set it up and let it take its own shape. Popularization is happening mainly through the support of people like you.
- What is the target segment in the society that you see is getting involved? Who else do you want to tap into to take this mission ahead?
Anyone who loves life and believes in doing something which brings their senses more alive.
- While being a lot of fun, do you also see it making a difference to the society?
Yes, we believe it will in
spire more people to take up cycling in India. It will change the way people perceive cycling in India. We also feel, it can have positive impact in the development of underdeveloped community, area, region.
- Your views on sustainable transportation in India?
There is not much visibility about such concept in India. We all have to work together to create awareness around it.Transport systems have significant impacts on the environment, accounting for between 20% and 25% of world energy consumption and CO2 emissions. Sustainable transport like bicycle has a positive impact on climate change. Art of Bicycle Trips and Greenpeace have taken a collaborative initiative called "Cycle for Climate Change" in regard to promotion of sustainable transport like cycling in India. More partners are required to make CCC a national campaign.
- What is the execution/operating model?
We are at very nascent stage of startup right now. No particular execution model in place. We work according to people's availability, passion and dedication.
- How is your team organized? How you guys work together? Are their specific areas each of you focus on?
Founder: Pankaj Mangal, He is MICA alumni and handling Business Strategy and Marketing
Co-founder: Pradeep Sharma, handling Operations
Co-founder: Gaurav, he is currently cycling in worlds friendliest cycling city - Copenhagen. He brings the international cycling experience with him. He is responsible for international marketing.
- Tell us about your exciting journey so far
So far so good. One of the most hilarious part of the journey was when I saw my pic on the front page of Bangalore Mirror having "Peddling" as heading. It really gave me a pleasant shock :) - Also a bit about - Bumps, Hindrances, issues faced and how did you over come them.
Introducing the cycling holiday concept in India. Its fairly new to India. Used events and contests like "Bicycle Trips Photo Contest" as a channel. - Your thoughts on future of bi-cycling in India?
Evolving at really good pace now but still long way to go. We believe India needs a national level bicycle movement/campaign to inspire more people to take up bicycling. "Bicycle India Movement" is started keeping the futuristic view in mind.
Please check out this space for more to come on ABT as they take shape.
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Sunday, 10 October 2010
