Internationale groepsreis Cycling Vietnam

Thea

Na een slechte ervaring een jaar terug met een rondreis Australie en een weinig leuke groep deze keer een topgroep (homogeen gezelschap want allen fietsliefhebbers), internationaal gezelschap, is zeer goed bevallen, toporganisatie lokaal: perfecte lokale gids die heel goed voor ons zorgde. Echt grote klasse

Maryse

De fietstochten waren grotendeels over rustige en landelijke wegen, met mooie uitzichten. De uren die per bus moeten worden afgelegd, staan in de tripnotes vermeld, helaas is onze ervaring dat deze bij lange na niet kloppen, de werkelijke tijden zijn vele uren langer.

Cycle Vietnam

Overall and excellent trip and good value for money. Everything is laid on and very well organised.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

The 30k downhill!

What did you think of your group leader?

A lovely guy who was helpful and knowledgeable. He never stopped laughing which is a good thing and had an adorable personality but not quite sure if that was appropriate to laugh when my bag was stolen from a hotel!

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Vietnam is a lovely country but not great for vegetarians. In some places you're limited to rice. Considering it's history, it's not surprising to know that it's quite undeveloped in terms of the infrastructure. The roads are very bumpy, especially when travelling on the bus. You get jostled a lot in Vietnam, especially in the cities. However, your money will go a long way in Vietnam!!

Is there anything else you would like to add?

I would like exodus holidays to show the average age of travellers. I'm 43 and was essentially the youngest person on the trip. There were a lot of older couples who were quite cliquey and didn't seem to wanna mix with the singletons.

CYCLING VIETNAM

A great experience. By cycling you really meet the people. I can't think of any other way you can do this so effectively. The Vietnamese people were so genuinely friendly.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Meeting the Vietnamese people on the back roads. The climbs were tough but the descents fantastic.

What did you think of your group leader?

Our group leader (Chi) was brilliant and his support team simply couldn't be faulted.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Do not leave anything on the coach overnight. Our cycling shoes were stolen from off the coach overnight just three days into the holiday and there was no sign of a break-in. Be prepared for early starts. The hotels are much better than expected and all have internet (usually free).  If the weather is poor in Hanoi, consider not taking the trip to Halong Bay as the you spend over eight hours on a coach driving through uninteresting scenery and, if visibility is poor then the bay is a disappointment. As an alternative would recommend visiting HCM Mausoleum in the morning when you can get inside (you don't do this on the guided tour). We added a further six days to the trip and flew down to the island of Phu Quoc for R&R. Finishing in Hanoi is a bit of a disappointment (weather poor and people not as welcoming) and everyone was jealous that we were going to get some sun. Would highly recommend the Beach Club (cheap and intimate) on Long Beach, Phu Quoc.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

There was a discernable difference in attitude between the people of the south and the north. The further south you are the more friendly the people. That's not to say that Hanoi was unfriendly but just different to the south of Vietnam. As a result, our thoughts are that the trip would be better if there were more days cycling and finished in Hue. Whilst the sleeper train to Hanoi is an experience and better than expected, Hanoi itself is not that spectacular and the last 3/4 days have no cycling at all, just sightseeing. Although that's clear from the itinerary, it's a bit of a let down.

CYCLING VIETNAM

Pretty easy cycling and a little too much bus and transfers. Hotels and organisation were generally good with good support. Enjoyable trip overall.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

What did you think of your group leader?

Good

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

This is not hard core cycling trip but is enjoyable. If you are experienced still enjoyable but be prepared for mixed group and moderate pace. Hire bikes were reasonable for what was done so don't bother to take your own.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

The group was very mixed in cycling ability which meant some stops (lunch in particular) were not very efficient and some time was lost that could have been used in getting to destination a little earlier to have a bit more free time. Train trip was interesting but probably wold have preferred some more days cycling and perhaps back to Saigon as not sure Hanoi was worth the effective loss of days.

CYCLING VIETNAM

Too many people with too wide a range of ability and goals. Wonderful country but trip would be enhanced by smaller more defined group - either cyclists or shoppers to get the most out of the time available.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Zooming down 30 km of awesome red stone cliffs at 65km. Wonderful art galleries in superb buildings. What could have been dire diving salvaged by a superb dive guide - nudibranchs, leaf fish, 5 ft moray... all in 2 metre viz.

What did you think of your group leader?

Excellent and patient

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Cycle fitness is a must. Get over your saddle soreness at home.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Everything is so cheap don't quibble over the odd extra dong

Great food too!

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Managing the long rides!

What did you think of your group leader?

Excellent

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Make sure you have enough padding for your backside!  And try all the food on offer.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Fantastic experience

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Fantasic place, lovely people- best evening for me was the cookery . I used some of the pictures I took to get my LRPS award with the Royal photographic Society, very inspirational. http://www.flickr.com/photos/16203966@N00/sets/72157594511081734/  

What did you think of your group leader?

The Leader was excellent, good pace ,pushed me , came back so much fitter.  

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Get fit before you get to there to get the most out of the tour, impacts on the rest of the group

Is there anything else you would like to add?

The train journey to the North was desperate for the amount I got out of it. I would have preferred more time in the South and done the North on a separate holiday, perhaps with Laos.

Cycling Vietnam

What a fantastic trip and a great way to get a taste of Vietnam whilst enjoying a cycling and sightseeing holiday

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

I don't think I've ever said hello so many times, the children would all run out and shout hello, wave and put their hands out to slap yours as you cycle past, great fun! Another highlight was the boat and Halong Bay, it coincided with my birthday, the weather was clear and we had the boat just for our group, food was fabulous and they even carved me a "happy birthday" melon .... amazing.

What did you think of your group leader?

Chi was an excellent group leader, nothing phased him and he had a permanent smile on his face. His English was excellent and his knowledge of Vietnam was superb. He was very tolerant and didn't mind how many times we asked "is it flat?"

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Be prepared for the heat and humidity. It's easy to get laundry done on a several occasions, so you don't need too much cycle gear.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

This was my first cycling holiday with Exodus and won't be my last, I LOVED IT!!!

Excellent trip

This was an excellent trip: tour group leader and support team were superb, hotels generally of a high standard, local restaurants serving really tasty food. The cycle routes for the first two days were rather dull and dusty but after that they just got better and better. Quite a lot of transfer time between cycles but because the temperature and humidity were so high, we were all appreciative of the cooling off time in the air conditioned coach. I think maybe at these temperatures (38C)the cycle rating should be a little more towards the difficult end of the spectrum. That said the back up team provided everything we needed - regular pit stops, plenty of rehydration, snacks (the fresh mango was to die for!) and even chilled wet wipes to the back of neck! Highly recommended.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Hai Van Pass Off the beaten track villages Cycling in the late afternoon through huge cemetery - so atmospheric. Halong Bay overnight boat - great food, fun kayaking and dancing into the night.

What did you think of your group leader?

Calm, well organised, great sense of humour. Excellent steers to local restaurants. Chi could not be faulted.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Expect the heat, pace yourself and enjoy!

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Cycling Vietnam

Vietnam is a fantastic country. Exploring by bike is a great way to be immersed in the sights, smells, atmosphere of a new culture.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Swimming in a cove at Halong bay and being woken by the most dramatic thunderstorm that reverberated around the islands.

What did you think of your group leader?

We couldn't have asked for more from a group leader. Danh was organised with an exceptional attention to detail. His knowledge of his country was outstanding, with an endless enthusiasm and ability to impart this. As a group we felt thoroughly looked after. This was helped by a fantastic bike support team, who provided us with an abundance of smiles and snacks. Danh's intimate knowledge of his country brought us to places that we would never have found alone. Great family restaurants and an egg coffee being examples of this.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Quality snacks provided whilst riding, you really don't need to bring your own. Camelbak not necessary, as stops are frequent and if you go in the summer it really is too hot to wear one. If like me your knowledge of Vietnam is somewhat sparse, it would be a good idea to do some research before you go so that you have some context in which to put the abundance of information that will be offered to you!

Is there anything else you would like to add?

This was the first organised group cycling holiday that I've been on, my first exodus holiday and my first time travelling on my own. I wouldn't hesitate in doing it all again.

Great way to see Vietnam

Great way to see the highlights of Vietnam - though take note of how much time you will spend on the bus each day on the trip

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

The sleeper train to Hanoi - including a conga down the length of the train following on from our leader's generous pouring of mojitos and G&T . One of our group was 78 years old and with the support of the group and our group leader managed all the trip without getting on the bus

What did you think of your group leader?

Danh was a great tour guide - exceptionally well organised and very knowledgable. He was also great at getting the cycling group to quickly gel into one very friendly and fun group

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Visit Sapa after the trip for a 2 or 3 day trek - book it with Sapa sisters

Is there anything else you would like to add?

The trip was brilliant but the cycling itself was a little disappointing compared to the Backroads of Sri Lanka trip - too many main roads, scenery so-so at times and lots of bus transfers

A fantastic experience in an amazing country

This was the first group cycling holiday that I have been on, my second holiday with Exodus. It was an amazing experience with a great group and an extremely efficient and organised leader. I loved Vietnam, the friendliness of the people, the exotic sights, smells and tastes: wonderful to experience such totally different culture. The cycling was more challenging that I was expecting ( I do quite a bit of cycling) and the route more"undulating" than we were lead to believe but entirely manageable. Some of the bus transfers were long, we had early starts and late finishes to our days but that was necessary in order to cover the distances and see more of the country.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

The people, especially the children as other reviewers have said, rushing out to shout "hello, hello" and trying to give us high 5s! They seemed genuinely so pleased and excited to see us. Experiencing a totally different culture whilst exercising and being amongst a great group of people.

What did you think of your group leader?

Lam was a truly fantastic group leader, organised, efficient, helpful, flexible and always ready to help and offer suggestions. He was very knowledgable about the history of his country. His restaurant suggestions were invariably good and were much appreciated when time was short when we arrived late. He was assisted by a great team: Ly, Vu and Thach who made sure that we were looked after on our breaks with plentiful drinks and snacks and Ly, the mechanic was always there at the back to support us. The whole team were always so happy and cheerful.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Definitely do this trip! I would strongly recommend to anyone considering this trip to book on! Helpful to take your own saddle and pedals and bike bottle. Also helpful to take a sleeping bag liner for the overnight train. Clothes can be washed out and there are several opportunities to do laundry( arranged by Lam) so don't need to take loads of clothes.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Incredible vietnam

What an incredible holiday! Everything exceeded expectations from the excellent knowledge and planning from our guide to the food and fabulous scenery Vietnam provides, it's going to take a lot to beat this trip.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Being involved in a New Year world record competition at our hotel in Nha Tring

What did you think of your group leader?

Fantastic

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Cycling in Vietnam

A fabulous trip and a great way to explore the length of Vietnam in 2 weeks with its varied countryside, friendly people and great food. I feel we really saw a lot of Vietnam and cycling in the countryside allows you to experience the place at a different pace. The staff on our trip were excellent. The only downside was the amount of bus time we had - some longer bus journeys which are unavoidable given the size of the country!

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

There were many great moments - mine might have been reaching the top of Hai Van Pass.

What did you think of your group leader?

I couldn't have asked for a better leader. Lam was truly excellent - friendly, always happy and willing to help you and well organised.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Try and extend your trip a day either side to have time in Ho Chi Minh and Hanoi. Don't worry about bringing snacks - there are loads provided (just bring a water bottle!) You can also get laundry done in Nha Trang and Hoi An (rest days) so you can pack lighter.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

A great trip and thoroughly recommended!

Wow!!

If you want a good workout on the bike,some really great hotels ,food and culture this is for you!! Oh and a great tour leader to boot!! But treat with caution the term "moderate" When cycling in the warmer part of the year.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

34k downhill!!!

What did you think of your group leader?

Superb!!

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Be fit!

Is there anything else you would like to add?

No

Vietnam

A really well planned, fun trip, headed by a brilliant group leader. I loved Vietnam, the country and all the people I met.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Really enjoyed the overnight train journey to Ha Noi

What did you think of your group leader?

The group leader (Long Le) was fantastic, he worked so hard (along with the rest of the team) in organising, planning and executing each days activities, always with fun and good humour.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Just book it - you will love the holiday

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Miss

Very glad I decided to do the trip, thoroughly enjoyed every moment of scenery, cycling, pleasant comfortable hotels, lovely boat and must say the train was definitely and experience.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Cycling 18 miles down the mountain, amazing scenery

What did you think of your group leader?

Lam really looked after us all impeccabley and was always smiling.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Don't forget your water bottle to fix onto your bike

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Superb holiday and really felt I have seen Vietnam as we covered such a vast amount of the country.

Vietnam-laugh your way across Vietnam with Danh!

Well, where do you start? Danh ('Jan') is the most happy, knowledgeable and friendly person you will meet. As a guide you will never surpass him. We had such a brilliant time with slick organisation making travelling in a hot climate so enjoyable. Cycling, culture, history and great food are wrapped into this brilliant 2 week trip that you cannot fail to enjoy it. We did the Atlas descent last autumn and whilst harder technically the higher temperatures in Vietnam make it tougher than the level 3 would suggest! We traveled as family of 4 with 2 teenage girls (17/19) and had very different expectations of a holiday, but 'Jan's' personality and abilities engaged everyone on all levels. If Exodus would like a small tip-stick some semi-slick tyres on the bikes as there was no need at all for knobbly MTB ones, the roughest terrain was a sandy road.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Many but 'kayaking'( and swimming!!) in the lagoon within one of the islands in Halong Bay. On a boat on the river at night with floating candles In Hoi Ann.

What did you think of your group leader?

Exemplary-an awesome asset to Exodus!

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Its hot. If you have a favorite saddle take it!! The hotels were all brilliant , a very high standard but breakfasts are weak unless you like pork noodle soup! No need to take any snacks.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Just do it! You will not be disappointed!

Marjan

Super mooie ervaring om door de verschillende landschappen van Vietnam te fietsen, en tijdens de breaks bij lokale plekjes te lunchen. Het fietsen is op zich niet heel zwaar, maar toch maken de hitte en hoge luchtvochtigheid de beklimmingen soms uitdagend. De begeleiding was echt super. Hou alleen wel rekening met af en toe de nodige uren in bus om uiteindelijk in het hotel aan te komen (wel lekker in de airco!).