This trip took 2 weeks and over 1000km cycled, we travelled in 3 different countries. Vietnam was very interesting to see the rapid development of their economy, whereas Laos, even with a GDP growth of 8% p.a still seems its sleepy old self.
Unlike our earlier trip from Singapore to Phuket, this holiday was conceived to visit specific places - Hoi An, Hué, Savannakhet and Pakse. Cycling considerations included keeping to quiet country roads, staying off Vietnam's busy Highway 1 as much as possible and challenges like the Hai Van Pass. (We had not known about the Aco Pass at time of planning). It has been a good balance between the sightseeing and travelling by bicycle.
Generally the roads we travelled were fine. There were some very steep bits, and a few awkward areas particularly the section from Khe Sanh to Savannakhet and the Aco Pass. The food was a little repetitive. Sometimes we had pho for three times a day. Each evening, we drank mainly beer, from Biere Larue, Huda Beer, Beer Lao to Beer Leo. Stayed at good hotels in Hoi An, Hué and Pakse and simple guesthouses along the way.
The visit to the coffee farm was a bonus and one of the highlights. We learned about organic coffee-growing and admire Bolaven Coffee's practical scheme to support poor Lao people without charity. Help them to acquire the skills, their own home and land which will enable them to look after themselves and their families, educate the children - surely a sustainable approach to eradicating poverty?
Our timing was good. Southeast Asia is heating up fast as the hot season approaches. Time to head back to Europe for a summer of cycling!
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