April 13 - May 20. Ho Chi Minh City to Hanoi. 2,569km.
After thirty-seven days, seventeen stops, 2,569km (not including putting around the towns) and a hell of a lot of beers, the motorcycle journey is over.
All said and done, the motorbike trip was an incredible experience that I would not have had any other way. I can not think of any other way I would traverse this amazingly beautiful country.
The long and skinny and up and down route really makes this the perfect country to travel by motorbike. Combined with friendly locals, abundance of mechanics with spare parts readily available for the trusty Honda Win, the trip was a breeze.
I had no issues with the local law enforcement as people have mentioned. I got more friendly waves from police than anything!
I was able to travel through rural towns that I would never have seen on the bus. I stayed in towns where foreigners not just uncommon but virtually non-existent. Children and adults alike would yell out, smile and wave as we passed them.
I also feel like I can give myself a pat on the back; there were times when I thought both me or the bike might not make it, but we both persisted and made it through.
I am glad to have met Aaron, Sonny, Scott and Charlie; there was a good sense of camaraderie throughout our travels. I wish these guys the best of luck and will hopefully see them again in the future - after all, all but Scott are moving to Australia on working holiday visas!
I managed to meet a young German lad, Louis, who was looking to buy a bike in Hanoi. He was staying at my hostel and I approached him, asking if he was looking to buy a bike. I gave him a quick run down on how to ride and after a few beers it was a done deal. I have passed the old girl on to another keen traveller, recouping a portion of my costs, but more importantly passing on the experience to someone else to enjoy!
I cant wait to get out on another bike again. Something a bit bigger than a 100cc would be great! Thailand, I'm looking at you.
Now for a photo dump!
No comments:
Post a Comment