Still Travelling... Virtually

As 2022 comes to a close, I realize that I've been seeing a lot of the world by bike, by kayak, and on foot.

Virtually, that is.

North Coast 500

As many of you who follow my blog regularly (thank you!) know, I have been exercising almost daily since the beginning of January, 2021, with the help of The Conqueror Virtual Challenges app. This app has been far more successful in getting me to work up a sweat than any gym membership ever has.

Since I started using the app, I've virtually visited Spain, England, Scotland (twice), Germany, Iceland, Italy, the US (twice), China, and Eastern Canada (Cabot Trail). I'm currently travelling the Estrada Real, in Brazil. I hope to reach the finish line, just outside of Rio de Janeiro, by the end of the month if not by Christmas Day.

As I complete my second year of following this app, I ponder whether I want to sign up for more challenges in 2023. When I look at the challenges that are still available—and The Conqueror is always introducing more—I sort of say, "meh," to myself. Either the challenge is too short—on my spin bike or road bike, I could complete the challenge in a day or two—or the location isn't a place that interests me. And after my uninspiring trek along Route 66, I don't want to be uninspired.

I really wish the creators of the app would make a cross-Canada challenge. Last year, using Google Maps, I plotted out a route from Newfoundland to British Columbia that I thought would include some interesting checkpoints. I even suggested the route to The Conqueror, but have yet to see this 8,026-kilometre route.

If I do take up a challenge next year, I may make a departure from an actual world trail. Instead, I might sign up for The Lord of the Rings virtual challenge, where you complete five individual challenges that match the journey that Frodo Baggins took from The Shire to the depths of Mordor.

My virtual journeys are of the imagination: why can't the challenges be fictional?

The Lord of the Rings virtual challenge is 2,921 kms, which would not be the longest challenge that I've taken, but it would be a good start to 2023.

And it's still cheaper than a gym membership.