A nomadic childhood straddling East and West probably accounts for my later life as a bike&boat tour leader and linguist. I blame an eccentric grandmother for the rest: a passion for the Venice Lands (where my roots lie), their history, culture, wines and dialect – which I love to share with my groups on two wheels. Cycling also lets you absorb your surroundings, stop and chat with strangers, observe the birdlife (I never get tired of the Po Delta). My partner and daughters share my enthusiasm for Girolibero life and gelato, and are tolerant of my enjoyment of lower league football.