I used to be a Point A to Point B rider... the destination rather than the ride.

But I think my outlook on cycle-touring has changed a little bit. Now I want to spend a bit of time in various locations so I can look around.

In many ways, this is related to my other thread about Going Back. In addition, the Hub-and-Spoke concept of basing in one location and riding out from there daily in various direction has a lot of appeal to me these days. Semaine Federale in France (and more latterly in Australia) are events billed to be like this.

It comes down to how much I feel I want to immerse myself in a place -- whether its appeal is based on an interesting history, interesting landmarks, or nice people.

How do you see yourself? As someone on a mission (Point A to Point B just so you can say you've done it), or someone who is prepared to be flexible, stop in one spot for several days or a week, and explore and immerse?

Note that this is not intended to be a debate about which is better, but rather a sharing of experiences and evolution in your bicycle touring.