Vietnam - A ride reflection

I've been out of Vietnam for a few days and taking it slow and easy in Laos and finally had some time to reflect. It was definitely a sensory overload going through the country and our tight schedule did not help. We've been both lucky and unlucky, had our fair share of run ins with both good and bad people. 

If you were to read reviews in lonely planet and other travel sites, you'll come across plenty of horror stories of rude run-ins and being scammed. Did we experience all this? of course! and then some.

I suppose herein lies the beauty of motorcycle travel. It's not just the wind, everything and i do mean EVERYTHING is in your face. Yes, I could have flown to the cities and back and say that I've been to the War Remnants Museum. Though that would mean missing out and so many little ticks and nuances and the day to day life that you won't get to see otherwise.

I'm not suggesting that it is for everyone, but if you do have a sense of adventure(which deep down, beneath that power suit and tie, or high heels and mascara, i believe we all do) it's something you can consider.

I'm lucky to be a one of the pioneers to ride his own bike into Vietnam and that's an experience many dream about still. It's expected that things would not be perfect, as with any travels, it never is. If you're considering to ride through Vietnam here are my suggestions for a better ride:

1. Forget Hanoi and Saigon: you can always fly there

2. Spend more time at Hoi An, Hue, Na Thrang and Ha Long Bay: Minimum of 2 nites as you do not want to miss out on the attractions.

3. Don't bother with Dalat: it's not worth the effort to get there. You want cold weather? go to Laos

4. Use AH1 only when necessary.

5. Come from Laos and cover the Northern part of Vietnam.

6. Do not ride more than 300km a day.

It was an awesome and most unforgettable experience, made new friends bonded well with some, met people, improve my riding(i hope).

Thank you to everyone involved in making this happen and here's hoping to more trips in the future.

I end this post with the last lines of Desiderata that just encapsulate Vietnam well.

With all its sham, drudgery, and broken dreams,
it is still a beautiful world.
Be cheerful. Strive to be happy.