In France, Spain and Portugal recumbent bicycles are not very common and people often react very surprised. Comforably leaning backward, looking at the scenery and waving at surprised faces is a great expierence. 

For a long distance road trip a recumbent bicycle is a much better choice than a standard touring bicycle. It is almost as comfortable as a car seat and lets you enjoy the scenery without stressing any muscles. There is also less stress on the wrists, no saddle pains, and no need to wear special pants.

However, if you plan to cycle on narrow, gravel and rocky paths very often I would not recommend a recumbent bicycle.  On a normal bicycle your posture is already in upright angle so you can quickly put one foot on the ground to maintain balance at slow speeds. On a recumbent bicycle this will be much harder.

It is also said that a recumbent cycler is less visible. I think that may be tru for the very low riders. On the Azub Six the seat is positioned higher so I think it is not really a problem.  For extrta safety I increased my visibility using a little orange flag on my trailer. Looking back in my rear view mirror I always see this flag fluttering happy in the wind. It has almost become a friend keeping me safe.

In my preparations I have also considered the other options like a tricycle and a normal
bicycle, but now I am really happy with the choice I made.