The world's biggest bike race, the Tour de France, starts today -- it's fun to watch in July and somewhat marks the arrival of the heart of summer. Besides, if you're biking for three weeks anywhere in the world, I can't think of a more dreamlike spot than France. The whole country is pretty much perfect.
My grandfather tunes in every year, just loves watching the cyclists blaze up, down, all around the country. I remember being a student in Paris and going with friends to the Champs Elysees to see the final leg of that year's Tour. It was so festive, so fun. We watched Lance Armstrong win his fifth or sixth Tour. The whole thing felt like a national holiday.
Here's a map of this year's race. I look forward to staying tuned!