HU Latvia 2020
THE PREMIER OVERLAND ADVENTURE TRAVEL EVENT
Horizons Unlimited 1st Latvia Travellers Meeting - near Riga
Fri May 29 to Sunday May 31, 2020
For the first time in the Baltics, Horizons Unlimited Latvia will take place in one of the most beautiful places in Latvia - the sports recreation centre "Smeceres sils", which is located near the Trans Euro Trail (TET). There is an excellent track and many activities to enjoy. You can stay over overnight in one of the log cabins or in the beautiful campground.
Enjoy the beautiful, natural landscapes and hundreds-of-years-old forests, expansive seashores, and evergreen meadows. You can ride the countless trails that locals consider to be a huge asset and do everything to protect the environment from harm.
TET Latvia linesman Mārtiņš Sils will focus on the research and functions of TET, and the vision that, while exploring off-road, you can also share the enjoyment of nature-friendly riding without harming the environment and those around you. We will discuss and learn what makes a good driving and traveling culture and what role the TET plays in it.
Participants will also get to experience:
- Informative and inspiring sessions led by leading Baltic motorsports and motorsport professionals;
- Useful master classes to gain valuable skills;
- Discussions and conversations with fellow travellers who have explored other countries and continents;
- Evenings among new and old friends with live music;
- A sauna in nature:
- A guided group ride-out to explore the local area.
It's an irresistable weekend! Sign up today. Invite friends to come with you and enjoy the fun together.
It's All About Overland Adventure
Whether you're a seasoned veteran with wisdom to share or a complete novice hungry for ideas and guidance, it doesn't matter if you ride a motorcycle, a bicycle, or drive an expedition vehicle...Horizons Unlimited meetings are for everyone who dreams of adventure along the road less travelled.
Inspiring, Informing & Connecting
Some people value Horizons Unlimited events for what they learn from the unique line-up of presenters. Some people value the chance to discover new products and services at the trade stands. Some people value just kicking back with a beer among old friends and new.
Most people enjoy a little bit of everything, and everyone goes home fired-up for adventure with a smile on their face.
The event will include a packed schedule of presentations and activities. All within the relaxed and friendly atmosphere that Horizons Unlimited is known for.
Horizons Unlimited Latvia Event Schedule
The event is taking place from Friday, May 29 to Sunday, May 31, 2020.
The Registration Tent will open for check-ins at 3:00 pm. The first presentations will begin at 5 pm. The event will draw to a close at Noon on Sunday, May 31.
Over the course of the event there'll be talks, demonstrations, workshops, discussion groups, challenges and competitions, with many presentations being repeated so you won't miss out.
As well as hearing inspiring stories of overlanding adventure from around the world, you'll get the low-down on preparing for your journey, navigation, first-aid, photography, filming and a host of other essential topics. Whatever your past experience or future plans may be, there's something for everyone.
Draft schedule can be downloaded here approximately 1 week before the event.
PLEASE NOTE: The schedule is subject to change at any time - all the presenters are volunteers and travelling, thus they may be delayed or unable to get there. Some may have anxiety attacks and be unable to perform! ;-) And sometimes travellers show up unexpectedly with great pics and stories, so we try to fit them in!
Presenters at HU Latvia 2020 include...
LOTS of presentations to come! As people register to present we'll list them here.
How about you? We're all here to learn, and there's LOTS to learn! We want to do more presentations and seminars - but we need volunteers to give them! Any topic you can contribute having to do with motorcycle travel, maintenance, planning etc, lasting 20 minutes or more, would be great. Please contact us here to volunteer.
To give you an idea of the types of presentations / demos you can expect at an HU Travellers Meeting, here is a very brief sampler...
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Ken and Carol Duval, AustraliaLife on a Bike - 6 years on the road! |
2UP traveling on a 32 year old bike through all South American countries and north through Central America to USA & Canada.
Road works in Colombia
"In 1997 we left on a 1981 BMW R80 G/S for an 18 month trip around the world and were away 4 years 2 months & 17 days through 57 countries & 200,000 kms. We sold everything and set off again in 2007 for our 2nd RTW. So far we have spent 3 years in South & Central America & this is our 3rd summer in North America. Next year we will be heading to South Korea, Japan, Russia, Mongolia and Europe. Now our life is on the bike."
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Kai-Uwe Och, SwedenAdventure Touring in Scandinavia |
Europe's best adventure touring happens in the north: Sweden, Norway, Finland!
The Scandinavian countries have a long heritage of outdoor live, both winter and summmer. Besides being (in contrast to central Europe) sparsely populated there is an ages old right still in force today, which give you the right to camp basically whereever you like. Just throw your tent on your bike, ride for some hours and find a nice spot in the forest at a quiet lake to enjoy a good meal at the campfire.
Kai-Uwe Och is 44 years old, has always been interesting in outdoor live, but mostly travelling by bicyle for many years. Took motorcycle license in 2008 and continues to travel same style as before, just longer distances!
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Jeremy Kroeker, CanadaThrough Dust and Darkness - KLR through Europe, the Middle East, and North Africa. |
Jeremy Kroeker has traveled to over 30 countries with his motorcycle and done at least one outrageously stupid thing in every one. One October, he rode from Canada to Panama in an attempt to flee the pain of a broken relationship. Motorcycle Therapy - A Canadian Adventure in Central America tells his story of personal discovery, friendship and reconciliation that occurs along the way.
More recently, Jeremy rode from Germany through the Middle East into Iran, and finally through North Africa before returning to Europe. His second book, Through Dust and Darkness, is coming Fall 2013.
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Mike and Jo Hannan, AustraliaThe Alps beyond Alpine roads. There is more to the European Alps than the pass roads. |
The Alps, running from Slovenia to France, are widely thought to be the best motorcycle roads in the world. Every year many thousands of riders make the pilgrimage to test themselves in the high passes. The Alps, however, also embody a complex mix of history and cultures which can enrich a motorcycle adventure.
This presentation takes a look at these wonderful motorcycle roads through a selection of historical events and cultural features.
Mike and Jo Hannan have spent three seasons riding the high roads and their second travel book "High Road Rider - mountains, motorcycles and myths" will be published by New Holland early in 2014.
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Azure O'Neill (USA) and Noel Bremmers (Netherlands)Two Up or Two Bikes - The pros and cons of riding two up and riding with two bikes |
"When Azure and I met in Australia, I adjusted the Honda Africa Twin to fit two on one bike. While we fell in love, Azure fell in love with riding, as well. Upon arriving in the USA, she took riding lessons and got her license. On our way up to Canada we miraculously ran into her Honda Transalp. It was love at first sight. Now we travel with two bikes. Double the fun but also double the maintenance. We hope our experiences can help other riders make the decisions that are right for them."
Azure O'Neil left the lobbying world of Washington, DC to pursue her dream to travel the world. Along the way, she met a Dutchman doing the same thing, but on an Africa Twin and was inspired to get her own bike. Now, she and the Dutchman are riding around North America with their sights set on South America and beyond... destination unknown!
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George Parker, USAYour Bike, Your Dreams, My Travels... |
Alaska / Points Between: Slides, Stories, How To Discussion for Novice Travelers
George has been long distance riding since 1970; his longest trip: VA. to Artic Circle via west and northwest, 13,082 miles.
"I will use slides and stories of some of my trips over the last 40 years to discuss prep and travel in North America and how the novice traveler can accomplish their dream trip. Many riders are hesitant to take a long trip because they lack confidence and/or feel they don't have the gear or bike for distance travel. Emphasis will be on the trip, how to use existing bike and gear, and how to gain confidence to ride anywhere. Discussion will center on how to plan, execute, and accomplish the trip from the novice distance traveler's perspective. Points of discussion will also include: expenses, route planning, camping vs. lodging, repairs, journals, and importantly for the novice, 'distance is relative'."
Panel discussions at most HU events include...
Border crossings - How to get through borders with minimal stress and cost!
Packing light - Tips and techniques from experienced travellers to reduce weight and bulk.
Regional discussions - e.g. travelling in South America or Asia.
For Women Only - A must for the ladies, so be sure to plan on being there! A chance to talk to experienced travelling women without the men around!
Experienced Travellers Panel - ask the experts anything you want!
Walk arounds / Show and tell!
Tool Kits - Show us your favorite tools. Toolkit discussion.
Tents and Bedding discussion (in the camping area) - What works, cheap vs dear and which ones keep you dry, warm and comfy!
Farkle Walk - Take a stroll and talk about your best bike mods - homemade saddle bags, toolbox mounts, GPS mounts, seats, side stands, tank panniers, cup holders, etc.
The Adventure Travel Zone
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Exhibitors - To Be Confirmed
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Outback Motortek
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If you know of any other motorcycle or travel equipment vendors or tour operators who should be there, please suggest it to them!
Exhibitors, more details and registration here. Please contact us if you have more questions.
Facilities for a Fantastic 3 Days
The 1st HU Latvia meeting will be at our fantastic new venue - Smeceres Sils. Lots of accommodation choices on site for every budget, from camping to shared rooms to couple's rooms.
Smeceres Sils
Lazdonas pag.,
Madona, Latvia LV4824
GPS: 56.841053, 26.190789
+371 2934 7575
Smeceres Sils
Camping and Accommodations
Camping is included with your registration.
For additional costs, you can stay comfortably in one of the four private cabins with their own kitchen, living room, and a panoramic view over the venue. Each cabin has two bedrooms, each with hostel-style bunkbeds (2 people per room). There are a total of 8 rooms available.
One room in two room cabin, shared facilities: 60 EUR per person for TWO nights, for a couple
One bunkbed in shared accommodation: 30 EUR per person for TWO nights
Housekeeping Items
Young Adventurers
Horizons Unlimited is naturally keen to inspire the next generation of adventure travellers so you're welcome to bring your children along if you wish. Bear in mind that the event is for adults (with adult themes and language) and we won't have any specific kids' activities. Children under 14 years old get free registration (pay for camping/accommodation and meals). Please note that the health and safety of your children is your responsibility and they must be supervised by you at all times. Children under 14 will not be allowed in any of the presentations from 8 pm onwards each evening.
Smoking & Drinking
Those of age who choose to consume alcohol must drink responsibly. We reserve the right to expel without refund any attendee who becomes intoxicated and/or causes a disturbance.
I've already registered - I just want to pay!
2020 PRE-REGISTRATION PRICING FOR FULL PASSESALL PRICES in EUR €. Includes your camping, one complimentary welcome drink at the Pre-Event, and admission to all presentations, tech clinics, demos, discussion groups, live music, and sauna. Cabin accommodations, Meals (Optional), and the Guided Group Ride (Optional) are priced separately. |
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Full Pass |
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Register and Pay before March 1, 2020 |
49 |
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Register & Pay between March 1 and May 22, 2020 |
59 |
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AT THE EVENT PRICING (APPLIES AFTER MAY 22)Pay Cash on Arrival |
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Full Pass |
69 |
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CAMPING AND ACCOMMODATIONCamping at Smeceres Sils is included with your event registration. Cabin accommodation is NOT included with your registration fee. Shared cabin rooms are available. See descriptions above. |
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2 nts |
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Tent camping, included with event registration |
FREE | ||
There are a variety of room options, please see the registration page to make your choice. |
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MEALSOur local pub Dēkainis ("Adventurer") is offering tasty food at welcoming prices all day throughout the event. Traditional baked egg in breakfast, Soljanka soup for lunch, and potatoes with meat in dinner will be just some of the options. Good taste guaranteed. Snacks will be offered, as well. Of course, we will take care of people with special diets and food restrictions - everyone will find some Latvian flavour in their dish. Dēkainis will offer also beverages - several kind of lemonades, juices. In evenings you will have a chance to taste local beers - it is well-known fact that Latvian beers are one of the best in the World. :) |
days to go!
Join the discussion:
On the HUBB!
On Facebook!
What happens at HU events?
HU South Africa
Comments about HU Events
"So many trips, tips, subjects, discussions, questions, answers, experiences, insights... I could go on and on. I will be back, and back, and back."
"It was like being with family... a friendly group with shared love of adventure."
"Everyone was humble, genuine, and encouraging, and I really needed that kind of 'we're all just people' kind of atmosphere."
"You'll see and hear the most useful ideas on so many subjects that it boggles the mind."
"Full of very inspiring people who got me fired up again and motivated for my next trip!"
"What a fantastic inspirational weekend...we will be back."
"I have picked up so much information... and met some new friends and wonderful people."
"...a new league of awesomeness."
"Great atmosphere and camaraderie, especially at dinner time, and interesting presentations."
"I have learned so much, made some great mates and met some of the best people. I was buzzing by the time I got home. I have a little trip planned and just can't wait to get out there."
For more about HU Events, see some magazine articles here.
Be a Presenter
We're inviting submissions for presentations, so whether you're attending the event or exploring a distant continent, if you've got a story to tell or expertise to share we'd like to hear from you.
We love to hear stories about your travel adventures, especially if you have great pics! Also, practical how-to sessions such as roadside cooking, navigation / GPS, trip prep and planning, adventure motorcycling medicine, packing light, setting your bike up, communications / blogging from the road, self-publishing your story, yoga for bikers, bodging / bike maintenance, self-defense, photography, videography, tire repair, safe riding techniques, how to pick up your bike, off-road riding, all are of interest.
There are 45 minute and 100 minute sessions available for talks, workshops, demos and live web chats.
Click here to submit your ideas
PLEASE NOTE:
Submitting a Presenter registration DOES NOT mean you will automatically be included in the schedule, as we can have more presenters than available presentation slots. We will confirm one way or the other as soon as we can (but not immediately!)
Book your Exhibitor Stand space
Over the course of four days, this Horizons Unlimited event offers a unique opportunity to build awareness of your brand and talk directly to potential customers.
The Adventure Travel Zone occupies a central position at the event site and is exclusive to trade stands representing the overland adventure travel market.
Choose between our Premium and Standard packages, both of which include on-site advertising and can include a presentation about your products and services. Be sure to let us know you want to do a presentation when you register.
You can help!
If you have a few minutes, please download the poster (Adobe pdf format) and print off a few and hand them round your club or your local bike shop or anywhere seems like a good place.
Latvian
Poster in pdf format (746 KB):
POSTCARD
Postcard in pdf format (603 KB) full colour Event postcard, can be printed 4 to a page:
English
Poster in pdf format (746 KB):
POSTCARD
Postcard in pdf format (603 KB) full colour Event postcard, can be printed 4 to a page:
You may need to right click and choose "save target as..."
Thanks!
Join the Volunteer Crew
From welcoming travellers at the gate, to taking care of the campsite and making sure all the presentations run smoothly, the success of every HU event relies on the enthusiasm of its volunteer crew.
"What a wonderful bunch of people. I had no idea how much fun I'd have by helping out!"
"It was my absolute pleasure to be able to give something back to the HU community and working with such great folks really made the event special."
Volunteering is a great way to make new friends, get more involved with Horizons Unlimited and have loads of fun! You can sign up to volunteer when you register for the meeting, OR click here if you have already registered and want to add volunteering.
Departing or Returning?
If you're planning an expedition, why not make the Horizons Unlimited meeting your official start point? Or maybe you're nearing the completion of a journey and would like a very public welcome home? Of course you might just be passing through and fancy marking a key stage of your travels?
We'd love to make you a big part of the meeting, so feel free to get in touch and tell us your plans.
Local Hosts
Martins Sils is the local host for this event, assisted by Paula Dirina:
and volunteers. We're VERY grateful to them for stepping up and making it happen with a lot of legwork and effort.
We can always use help - please volunteer to help out for a couple of hours when you register!
Questions for the team about the Event? Contact them here!
HU Events Refund Policy
Like adventures, life can throw surprises our way. Stuff happens. While we would love for you to join the fun and connect with everyone at our events, we understand that you (and the funds) may be needed elsewhere. We'll catch up later!
On our side, we know you appreciate that we have financial commitments to venues and caterers!
The best way to let us know that you're unable to attend an event is to reply to the Registration Confirmation Email you got from us when you first signed up.
Up to 30 days prior to event start, we will refund all fees in full less a $10 (or €9 or £8) handling fee and PayPal charges. At your request, we can apply your Event Registration and all fees to any subsequent HU event you wish in that year or following year.
Up to 15 days prior to event start, we will refund only the camping/accommodation and food packages in full less a $10 (or €9 or £8) handling fee and PayPal charges. At your request, we can apply your Event Registration fee (with no handling fee) to any subsequent HU Event you wish in that year or following year. If you purchased a t-shirt, we will ship it to the mailing address you provide.
Within 15 days of the event start, there will be no refunds. At your request, we can apply your registration fee (with no handling fee) to any subsequent HU event you wish in that year or following year. If you purchased a t-shirt, we will ship it to the mailing address you provide.
If WE cancel an event:
We are constantly evaluating the situation for every event, and very much err on the side of caution. We will endeavour to announce "Final" decision one month or more before the event, but the situation COULD change closer to time, and we could be required by law to cancel.
If we are forced to cancel for COVID or natural disaster, we will roll your registration over to next year automatically.
If you want to transfer your existing registration to any other HU event in the world, just let us know.
Need a full refund? PLEASE REPLY to your original Registration Confirmation email to make it easier for us to find. If you can't find it, please email a request to: events-c (AT) horizonsunlimited(-)com with the subject line: "Refund event-name event-year"
Next HU Events
ALL Dates subject to change.
2025 Confirmed Events:
- Virginia: April 24-27 2025
- Queensland is back! May 2-4 2025
- Germany Summer: May 29-June 1 2025
- CanWest: July 10-13 2025
- Switzerland: Date TBC
- Ecuador: Date TBC
- Romania: Date TBC
- Austria: Sept. 11-15
- California: September 18-21
- France: September 19-21 2025
- Germany Autumn: Oct 30-Nov 2 2025
Add yourself to the Updates List for each event!
Questions about an event? Ask here
New to Horizons Unlimited?
Horizons Unlimited was founded in 1997 by Grant and Susan Johnson following their journey around the world on a BMW R80 G/S motorcycle. The website, HUBB forum and regular events across the globe have inspired thousands of people to follow their dreams and take the road less travelled.
Membership - Show you're proud to be a Horizons Unlimited Traveller!
Horizons Unlimited is not a big multi-national company, just two people who love overland adventure travel and have grown what started as a hobby in 1997 into a full time job (usually 8-10 hours per day and 7 days a week) and a labour of love. To keep it going and a roof over our heads, we run events such as this one (18 this year!); we sell inspirational and informative DVDs; we have a few selected advertisers; and we make a small amount from memberships.
You don't have to be a Member to come to an HU meeting, access the website, the HUBB or to receive the e-zine. What you get for your membership contribution is our sincere gratitude, good karma and knowing that you're helping to keep the motorcycle travel dream alive. Contributing Members and Gold Members do get additional features on the HUBB. Here's a list of all the Member benefits on the HUBB.
You can join at a reduced rate as part of your meeting registration. Note that new Memberships with your Meeting Registration are applied as of the Meeting date or as soon as possible thereafter, not earlier, unless you make a special request in the Comments box when you register.