Despite the encouraging words about the 20mph limits, I have (and still do) thoroughly enjoyed Welsh roads for 40yrs. I've watched motorcycles there go from limited numbers to endless GS tractor convoys with 8' wide alloy panniers or insane sports bike riders in the 90s. I remember when getting petrol on a Sunday was something you learned to avoid by filling up on a Saturday evening so you could actually get home the next day.

It's still the best motorcycling country I know of. Spain is nice but very hot in the summer and the back road surfaces can be quite challenging, especially if, like me, you take your K75S off-road up a mountain trail with full touring panniers in chase of your trail bike riding partner. Actually, going up on my Chen Shin road tyres was fine... (Did I mention that I bought the bike for £650 a week before setting off?!) Going down was 'interesting' but certainly a great adventure.

At present Spain is around £500+ to get there on the ferry. I can enjoy a whole week in Wales for that and be at home at the end of it. If I'm lucky Wales also won't be too hot prevent me riding for a whole day either.

I loved touring Spain, France, Italy, Germany, Switzerland and most other countries in Western Europe. In fact I love going abroad - but my calculations of time/money/enjoyment led me very strongly to the conclusion that they are best enjoyed in an air conditioned car wearing shorts and chatting happily to my wife. In 2022 when it was nearing 40 degrees my week in Wales was blissfully enjoyed by taking the car for the same reasons. I'd have had a hideous week on the bike but the car was a refuge from the incredible heat which meant I could see and do much more than just sweat my excess pounds into my riding kit.

Horses for courses and all that!