A very well organised trip with an excellent balance of cycling and sight-seeing. The route offered a wonderful opportunity to see a variety of countryside, interacting with local people and a good range of cycling experiences.
- What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?
Cycling through a small village and being greeted by young children running down to the roadside to say a big "Hello", and give us a high-five.
Cooking my own meal on a small barbecue in a restaurant in Nha Trang (ask to go there if you leader does not suggest it).
Reaching the top of the Hai Van Pass after a terrific morning cycling from the outskirts of Da Nang.
Seeing the market stalls in the old quarter of Hanoi with all their fresh produce of fish, fruit and vegetables.
- What did you think of your group leader?
Our group leader, Chi, gave us sufficient guidance and yet enough freedom to enjoy the cycle in a way that we were comfortbale with. Nothing was too much for him, and he went out of his way to ensure that all members of our group enjoyed the holiday. His knowledge of all aspects of the trip, from the bikes, the roads, the hotels (including local laundries for cheap washing), local restaurants, to the sights was fully up to our needs. He also spoke excellent English. He could even appreciate my rather bad jokes! Overall Chi really made the holiday, reaching a very high level of satisfaction.
- Do you have any advice for potential travellers?
We were very lucky with the weather on our trip. Although it was apparanetly in the wet season, we had no rain during the day (it rained a few times during the night), and this made it very hot and humid. We were provided with plenty of fresh drinking water and lemon drink at each stop, and it proved very important to keep well hydrated. Do try the great range of fresh fruit available at roadside stalls and markets.
The overnight train ride from Hue to Hanoi was in "first class" but do not expect too much. It was clean, but cramped and with very limited facilities.
- Is there anything else you would like to add?
- Halong Bay was tremendous but we did not have enough time there - especailly for the kayaking which was great fun. It all seemed too much of a rush. We could have spent more time there if we had not stopped for so long at a place selling arts and crafts etc on the way. A short coffe/toilet stop which should have lasted 15 minutes, went on for at least 45 minutes.
from 73 reviews.
