In 1993, my brother Anthony and I arrived in Miami Beach with no plan and almost as much money. After working under the table as waiters, painters and construction laborers we decided to do something epic. Somehow we came up with the idea of riding a bicycle across the USA. We pulled out a map and noticed that there was a town on the west coast named after a popular soap opera back home – our destination was decided!
Riding across the US was an amazing way to experience the people and the country itself. I heard of or experienced many things for the first time including iced tea, armadillos, guacamole and chips and salsa.
We also experienced the warmth and generosity of Americans as people from all walks of life welcomed and encouraged us as we passed through their towns and their lives.
In all we rode 3210 miles and crossed eleven states on the journey from Miami Beach to Santa Barbara.

• Bike Across America