Biking through Vietnam, Cambodia
In 2010, we bicycled 480 miles along the Danube River from Passau, Germany, to Budapest, Hungary. Since then, we have searched for another bike excursion and recently found exactly what we were looking for: Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, to Siem Reap, Cambodia.
What a challenge for the 11 of us on the 14-day tour. When we met our fellow bikers, we soon realized we were the elders of the group, but this proved not to be a problem.
We spent a week in each country, biking a total of 350 miles. Our route traveled the Mekong River Delta, including frequent ferries and boats of various sizes and seaworthiness. Our bikes were good-quality hybrids with tires friendly to the varied surfaces we traveled, most of which were paths and trails through the many villages. Oh, the memorable "bridges" we had to cross.
The weather was hot and humid but we made frequent stops for fluids and nourishment. Our guides were in their mid-30s, friendly, very knowledgeable and proud of their countries.
Our hotels were a welcome sight each evening. They varied in style and amenities depending on what was available. All were more than adequate and some were exceptional. We also spent several nights in island or riverside lodges along our route.
As we are fans of Asian cuisine, we were pleased that the food was typical of the area, very fresh with an emphasis on fruits and vegetables. Usually breakfast in the hotels gave a nod to the Western palate.
Our tour allowed us to explore Ho Chi Minh City (formerly Saigon), Phnom Penh and Siem Reap (the gateway to the temples of Angkor Wat) but emphasis was on the people and life in the countryside. Villagers and city dwellers alike were friendly and welcoming. The children especially were a delight, and thrilled with the non-candy treats we handed out at stops.
The trip was the challenge we sought and a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
The writers live in Chandler.
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