Episode 87: Laura Buchan

Solo Bike Travel. Pacific Coast and Patagonia

In this episode of the Seek Travel Ride Podcast, we had the pleasure of speaking with Laura Buchan, a passionate traveler who has undertaken incredible journeys by bicycle. Laura’s adventures have taken her from the rugged hills of Taiwan to the scenic routes down the Pacific Coast, and most recently through the breathtaking landscapes of Patagonia in South America. Her stories are filled with moments of awe, incredible kindness, and personal challenges that shaped her perspective on life and travel.

Laura’s journey into the world of bike travel began rather unexpectedly. Through an intriguing series of events, she found herself cycling around Taiwan on a fully funded tour. What started as a casual conversation with a friend turned into a life-changing adventure. Despite not being an avid cyclist, Laura discovered a newfound love for cycling and a unique way to explore new places. This initial trip sparked her interest in long-distance bike travel, leading her to plan more challenging and adventurous routes.

Inspired by her experience in Taiwan, Laura set her sights on a solo trip down the Pacific Coast from Vancouver to the Mexican border. This journey was initially planned with a friend, but due to unforeseen circumstances, Laura found herself embarking on this adventure alone. Over the course of eight weeks, she rode through diverse landscapes, from lush forests to urban cities, encountering kindness from strangers and forming unforgettable memories. Laura’s trip along the Pacific Coast reinforced her belief in the goodness of people and deepened her connection to the world around her.

Laura’s most recent expedition took her through Chile and Argentina, exploring the majestic region of Patagonia. Unlike her previous trips, this journey was fraught with challenges, from extreme weather conditions to mechanical issues with her bike. Despite facing numerous obstacles, Laura’s determination and optimism kept her moving forward. She shared a particularly harrowing experience at an Argentine bus station, where the kindness of local people helped her navigate a seemingly insurmountable problem. This trip tested Laura’s resilience but also offered moments of awe-inspiring beauty, such as the clear skies and breathtaking vistas of Torres del Paine National Park.

Laura’s passion for adventure doesn’t stop with her previous trips. She’s constantly scheming new routes and exploring different parts of the world. Her upcoming move to Tunisia for a teaching job opens a new chapter filled with potential for more cycling expeditions and cultural explorations. Laura’s adventures have not only given her a deeper appreciation for the world but also instilled a sense of confidence and curiosity that continues to drive her to new horizons.

One of the most profound takeaways from Laura’s travels is her conviction in the kindness and generosity of people. Whether it was through the support of Warm Showers hosts, fellow travellers, or complete strangers, Laura experienced humanity’s best time and time again. These interactions have left a lasting impact on her, shaping her approach to life and travel. Laura believes that everyone could benefit from experiencing the world on two wheels, as it fosters an understanding and connection that transcends cultural and geographical boundaries.

Follow her adventures on Instagram at @laura_is_on_earth and her website lauraisonearth.com.

Join the Ride

If you enjoyed Laura’s story, continue to support Seek Travel Ride by sharing this episode and considering a contribution through buymeacoffee.com. Your support helps keep the podcast running, allowing me to bring you more inspiring stories from adventurers around the globe. Until next time, keep exploring and go on that bike adventure!

The Seek Travel Ride podcast