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The Most Cyclist-Friendly Countries and Cities to Move to
When moving overseas you’ll have to consider how you’ll get out and about in your new country. This is something that can apply whether you’re moving to a smaller town or village in the countryside, or a larger city centre. In the past it was usually either a case of relying on public transport, or buying (or hiring) your own car.
These days, however, you won’t necessarily have to make that choice as increasing numbers of countries and cities are realising that cycle lanes are a sound investment. Hamiltons Removals can help with EU removals as well as to destinations further afield; here we look at the countries (and cities) which are best for bike riders.
France
One of the most bike-friendly countries in the world, cycling is engrained in French culture. You only have to look at the Tour de France, probably the world’s biggest professional bike race, to see how popular the sport is.
The French capital Paris has the Velib bike-sharing programme, which has more than 100,000 users every day – the name originates from a mix of ‘velo’ (the French word for bike) and ‘liberte’ (meaning freedom). The programme boasts more than 16,000 bikes at 1,400 stations and it has been extended to other cities across the country.
There are more than 50,000 km of cycle lanes across the country, and the government wants to double that by the end of the decade.
The Netherlands
The UN’s Environment Programme says there more bikes in the Netherlands than there are people – 22 million to 17 million. Almost half the Dutch ride their bikes every day, and one in four get in the saddle several times int he course of the week.
Biking to work is a way of life for the Dutch; if you are considering European removals to Amsterdam, then the Dutch capital (pictured above) is also known as the cycling capital of the world (and the bike is the most popular mode of transport for city-dwellers). The flat terrain, and the high car parking charges (to discourage vehicle use) have helped encourage cycling as a way to get around. Cyclists get a tax-free allowance to bike to work as well (a bit like putting your mileage on expenses).
The Dutch city of Utrecht also scores highly for cycle use, as does much of the country.
Germany
The Global Bicycle Cities Index says 15 of the top 50 most bike-friendly cities in the world are German.
Of these, Hanover (which actively promotes ‘No Car’ days), Bremen (which also has very flat terrain) and Munster (which has 450km of cycle paths and, in some streets, bikes have priority over cars) are all in the top 10 – making Germany a popular choice for cycling enthusiasts.
Overall, about 70% of the population in Germany rides a bike regularly – and around one in five people cycle every day.
Australia
It’s not just in Europe that bikes are becoming a more frequent method of transport. in Australia 15% of the population (almost 4million people) ride a bike at least once a week, and one in four at least once a month.
Most of these rides aren’t to work – although the infrastructure is increasingly being put in place, notably in cities such as Perth, which has more than 700km of cycle lanes. Canberra also has a good reputation among cyclists.
However, Australians are more likely to cycle for recreational purposes – there is a strong racing culture across the country, which also extends to track racing.
New Zealand
If you are thinking of moving house to New Zealand, then Australia’s neighbour also scores well in the cycling stakes – but again, more for sport and recreation than for getting to work.
Mountain biking is one of the most popular sports in the country, thanks to the dedicated trails and the spectacular scenery that adorns the countryside. It’s been estimated (by the Bicycle Industry Association of New Zealand) that around four out of every five cycles sold are mountain bikes.
In terms of cities, historically Christchurch has the best reputation (and has been dubbed the cycling capital of New Zealand); the relatively flat city landscape helped people get on their bikes.
EU Removals with Hamiltons Removals
Hamiltons Removals can help if you want to move to France, the Netherlands, Australia, New Zealand – just call us on 01379 855203.
You can kick-start the whole process with one of our online video surveys if that’s more convenient for you.
If you’re not 100% sold on the cycling lifestyle and would like to take your own car with you, we can arrange that as well – we have been moving vehicles abroad for many years – for more details follow this link.
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