You can now hitch a ride on the back of a local's bike around Amsterdam

Amsterdam is a city that's best discovered on two wheels. I learned that on a recent trip the hard way, after spending way too much cash on tram tickets and getting blisters from walking. But the problem is that I didn't trust myself to ride a bike after, er, merrily indulging in the local delicacies. That's why on future trips I'd love to try out Yellow Backie, a project that lets tourists hitch a ride on the back of locals' bicycles.

Here's how it works: if you see a bike with a yellow luggage rack, yell out "Backie!" (a British term for riding double). The racks are provided free to locals who sign up as volunteers to pick tourists up and give them a lift. Started by a bike rental company called Yellow Bike, the program is modeled after hitchhiking and couchsurfing. Visitors get free rides and an insider scoop on a very touristy city.

Yellow Bike's communications manager Martin Luyckx explained to The Guardian:

It’s really common in the Netherlands to give someone a backie for short distances. Everyone does it, no matter the age or city. As Couchsurfing proves, there are a lot of people who like to make friends while showing their love or pride for their city ... and the people you meet on your luggage rack can show you around when you visit their hometown. So it’s a win-win for both involved.

Launched in August, Yellow Backie has over 100 volunteer riders. Next time I'm in Amsterdam, I intend to try it out.

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