Pedaling Through Paradise: Tips for cycling Hanoi to Saigon 2025-2026
Pedaling Through Paradise: Tips for cycling Hanoi to Saigon 2025-2026
My friend and I embarked on an unforgettable eleven-day cycling adventure through Vietnam, from the bustling streets of Hanoi to the vibrant metropolis of Ho Chi Minh City. While I initially envisioned a purely athletic journey, I was pleasantly surprised by the unexpected spa experiences that awaited us along the way. Looking back, I wish I had known the following tips before setting off, particularly number five!” Despite traveling during Vietnam’s so-called ‘dry season,’ I learned the hard way that a waterproof jacket is an essential item for any cyclist.
Despite my initial attempts to save space by forgoing a raincoat, I eventually crammed a water-resistant jacket into my suitcase at the last minute. However, even this proved insufficient. The Vietnamese ‘dry season’ is more like a ‘drier season,’ with intermittent showers and flooded streets. One particularly embarrassing incident occurred when we arrived at a fancy French restaurant, covered in mud and sweat after biking through puddles. It was a far cry from the refined image I had envisioned with pressed white table linens and a glass of Cabernet Sauvignon.”
I was completely unprepared for the leech infestation that awaited us during our hike through Cat Tien National Forest. Despite soaking my clothes in insect repellent, it proved ineffective against these blood-sucking creatures. The manager at the lodge assured me that leeches wouldn’t be a problem during the dry season, but our tour guide’s preparation (wearing gaiters) told a different story. Leeches seemed particularly drawn to my DEET-free clothing, attaching themselves to my ankles and legs. I quickly realized that speed was essential to minimize contact and bleeding, but the leeches were relentless.”
While I recommend taking antimalarial medication as a precaution, I also discovered the surprising benefits of vodka tonics during my trip. The quinine in tonic water can help ward off malaria, and the vodka can alleviate jet lag-induced crankiness. Although I wouldn’t rely solely on vodka tonics as a substitute for antimalarial medication, they can be a helpful supplement. And if you prefer a lime twist, be sure to ask your local bartender for lemon.”
As an average cyclist, I underestimated the vast distances involved in traveling from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City. While I enjoyed cycling 60-70 miles per day, we needed to supplement our journey with vans, trains, and even a plane to reach our destinations on time. This often meant sacrificing cocktail hour for quick meals on bumpy van rides, accompanied by the repetitive soundtrack of a single CD. Thankfully, ‘Hotel California’ is a long song
One of the most exhilarating experiences of the trip was cycling off-road through the Red River farmland outside Hanoi. We battled overgrown vegetation, ducked under palm branches, and navigated muddy patches. During a break, a kind woman harvesting Asian apples even shared some with us. However, the joy of this spontaneous adventure came with a cost. To make my train connection to Hue, I had to forgo a shower. Boarding the train felt like entering a creature feature film. While a baby wipe bath was my only option, I briefly considered a sink wash in the public walkway. Luckily, the sink’s location next to the male guard on duty quickly dissuaded me. Let’s just say this experience forced me to get creative with my hygiene routine.
While I proudly wore my new Vietnamese flag t-shirt during dinner in Buan Ma Thuat, I quickly realized it was a local faux pas. The guide explained that this region has a strong sense of tribal identity and may not identify as closely with Vietnam. I learned a valuable lesson about cultural sensitivity and the importance of local customs.”
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