Over the weekend, a friend of mine discussed with me an opportunity to take over his bicycle touring business when he "retires" in 5-6 years. He's had a pretty steady stream of business running for the past 20 years from his location in Maine, offering guided MTB riding with on site camping and a handful of other activities in the area. His marketing strategy has shifted over the years and he's currently focusing on the online sites like Groupon, Living Social, etc. but estimates that with an additional push toward established clubs and publications, he could probably pull in an additional 30-40% more business. Obviously, this would be a seasonal lifestyle and I'd have to find a way to get through the winter months but there are options that have been discussed including trying to find work off-season for another tour company down in the southwest or just saving enough during the regular to take the winter months off. He's got a pretty good system worked out and has, with one full time guide and several volunteers, held events with up to 50 or so people over three days providing meals, lodging, guided rides for all abilities, etc.
So, without getting into the financial details, because I don't have all that information yet, if it's something that you could make work, would you do it?
So, without getting into the financial details, because I don't have all that information yet, if it's something that you could make work, would you do it?