Nothing like ’Nam

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Vietnam cycles — to work, school, to run errands, and even gets the lazy tourist, looking for a hedonistic sojourn, to hop onto a cycle and pedal away on the cobbled streets of the French quarter, past hidden pagodas on the hills and streets littered with Noddy-town tables and stools.

Its flamboyance and timidity envelop you as you pedal from street to street, revelling in the quaint cane baby chairs placed in front of a Kinetic Honda-like bike for a toddler, the face masks for ladies that dot the vista, and of course, the aroma of delicious food. Travelling to Vietnam is an example of how a country has risen from the minefield in which it lay battered and torn, its people smiling, always ready with a helping hand.

Hanoi
The assault of the senses begins in Hanoi, where one can hire a cycle for a “dollar” more or less a day. Cycle along the Haon Kiem Lake and past the pagoda in the middle of this capital city that is located on the right bank of the red river.
The Old Quarter, near Hoan Kiem, is famous for its small artisans and merchants, including several silk shops. Stores selling local cuisine and clubs and bars dot the streets with a bustling night market, especially on weekends.

Halong Bay
Taking a tour of Halong Bay is a vision of nature still untouched. Take a tour on V Spirit Cruises or Oriental, and reach the jetty that is brimming with boats. Go kayaking into the caves, and experience “squishing” (our version of squid catching but without the catch!). One can also visit an isolated island, where one can trudge to the top and pose for a pretty picture, with Halong Bay and islands spread over 1,000 km. The famous stalagmites and stalactite caves are a must-visit.

Hoi ann
Like a pretty maiden waiting to be discovered, the cycling town of Hoi Ann is quaint and reminiscent of the French influence. Dotted with souvenir shops, this area is known for its over 4,000 tailors busy at work and its handmade shoes. You can get the dress of your dreams made here in just a day, and some shoes to go too. There is also a beach about 5 km from the old quarter where you can take a refreshing dip in solitude.

Saigon
Ho Chi Minh City is another great place to walk through. The Ben Thanh Market even has a small food street in the middle where you can partake of some delicious cuisine. For those looking for paintings and art, visit the Bui Vien market.
Cycle through Le Lai and sit at a bar and take in the city that has been sung about. Saigon is a metropolis that takes months to explore. The famous Cu Chi tunnels are a must-visit and symbolise the fighting spirit of the Viet Cong.