FAQs, Information For Travelling Offroad (Off-roading) In Vietnam

MOTORCYCLE TOURING

Frequently Asked Questions Motorbike, Motorcycle and Bike Tours Offroad Vietnam<sup>®</sup>

What type of clothing should I bring?

Please note that Vietnam is a developing country and size selection and/or quality products are real issues. Local products are cheap but almost just one size for all or the quality is poor. Here are some suggestions:
- Clothing: helmet, rain gloves, wellington boots (rubber boots for rainy season from April to September), summer gloves, balaclava, t-shirt, socks & underwear, long sleeved shirt, turtleneck shirt, extra jeans, light jacket, leather chaps, zip-lock bags, riding boots, bandannas, sunglasses and goggles.
- Personal items: basic toiletries, emergency cash, sunscreen and earplugs.
- Emergency items: first aid kit, emergency contact number, list medical conditions, list medications, flashlight, chargers and duct tape.
- Miscellaneous: small towel, bath towel, trash bags, bungee cords, camera and cargo net.

I drive a large displacement motorbike back home and am afraid that the Honda 160cc or Honda trail bike 125cc will not be up to the task. Can't we drive anything larger?

Vietnamese traffic laws prohibited the use of motorbikes larger than 175cc until May 2007 after Vietnam was allowed into WTO. It will take sometime to have big bikes imported into Vietnam, but it's likely that nobody rents out these bikes as import tax is 90% and VAT is 10% (a bike costs twice as much as in your country!). The Honda 160cc or Honda 125cc will not break the sound barrier but the Honda will easily carry two people down all of Vietnam's roads. They are light, balanced and fun to ride. As of early 2008, we offered upgrade to Honda Baja XR or Degree 250cc or TLR 200cc. Click to find out bike options.

Can you arrange accommodation for us in Hanoi?

We can make reservations for you at any hotel in Hanoi and also organise a car to pick you up from the airport. Commonly we recommend people to stay at a particular hotel in the heart of Hanoi's Old Quarter. The central location makes it easy to get around the city and the hotel offers comfortable and spacious rooms in the US$15-30 per night price range. They also provide safe storage for baggage during the duration of the motorbike or offroad tour. More details here.

Do you carry everything on the bike, or would I leave some of my luggage at "base" until returning?

We provide you with spacious saddle bags which can carry a large amount of belongings. It's also possible to strap a further bag or rucksack onto the bike's back rack if required. Any other luggage may be left safely in storage at your hotel waiting for return.

I hear the traffic is crazy in Vietnam. Is it safe?

Traffic in Hanoi is chaotic to the uninitiated driver. For this reason we always use the easiest roads (even if they are longer) to get out of town. We can also arrange for riders to be dropped off at the city limits by taxi. Once out in the countryside, the level of traffic drops off remarkably and on some roads it is possible to not pass a single vehicle for the whole day. That said, it must be emphasized that the conditions here are demanding and extremely defensive driving is imperative. All riders must be very careful and be fully aware that the purpose of the trip is not to ride performance bikes hard into the bends, but rather to trundle along nice and slow and enjoy the sites and sounds. Once a ride is confirmed, we will send you an extensive document covering all aspects of driver safety particular to the conditions found in Vietnam. This document and constant support from your guide will make your ride as safe as possible.

What do I do and expect when I have an accident?

Vietnam can be a very strange country regarding how the accident is solved, just as the way people ride. The bigger usually pay i.e car drivers pay motorcyclists, motorcyclists pay cyclists... However, if you have an accident, first you have to talk with the other party (via our guide) to find out who has to pay and how much. If you don't agree with each other, then we call the police and they will do their job (usually takes time) and you have to stay in Vietnam until they have the official report. Vietnamese people usually expect you to pay, even if you are right. Don't be surprised and stay calm as our guide will help you to solve the situation.

If you purchased an insurance policy, and if you request we will contact the insurance company and ask them for instructions. You will need to pay us all phone calls in this case.

I'm travelling alone, is it possible to join any existing groups?

Where possible we try to link individuals together as long as they are of similar driving experience. The more advance warning the better. Check out at Late Availability.

When is the best time to come to the north of Vietnam for a tour?

In the north there's no best time to ride. There are four distinct seasons, each with its own unique advantages. Summer runs from April to October, winter from November to March. Hottest months are June and August, coldest month is February. Expect the possibility of rain from April to August, while winter months are normally dry except when a winter storm settles in.

How long do we ride each day?

A difficult question as in most cases we ride from morning to the late afternoon. We try to get on the road early to make the most of the day and we enjoy lengthy stops throughout the day. On longer tours we can accommodate a rest day from the saddle. Our bikes all have extra padding in the seats. Expect at least five hours driving time per day.

What's the minimum time to complete a good ride?

In order to get into the mountains and out of the delta plains, whilst completing a good loop, we need a minimum of four days. At a bare minimum we can get onto some back roads and get a good taste of life on the road here in two days if you don't mind a long day in the saddle.

What's the best duration for a trip?

The perfect time frame to spend on the road would probably be eight or nine days, looking at a maximum of 12 days before the body starts to take the strain. However, for the indefatigable we can offer an 18-day trek of the entire northern region of Vietnam.

Where do the tours start from?

All tours start out from Hanoi between 8-9 am. Return to Hanoi is either by road or sometimes by overnight train in which case we send the motorbikes on the train. We usually come back in Hanoi between 2-6 pm.

Do you need a deposit?

We ask for a deposit of US$200 - US$500 in order to confirm to secure your booking(s). We will provide you with the necessary bank account details to transfer this deposit into once a ride has been agreed upon.

How do I pay you? Do you accept credit card payment?

Yes, we do accept credit card payment in our office. There is an extra bank charge of 3% (4% for American Express card holders). At certain times, we may apply surcharge as banks always offer low or very low rates comparing to black market rates. Deposit is made via a bank transfer or Western Union Cash Transfer. We ask that you transfer to our bank account a deposit and then final balance (cash is king in Vietnam) before the commencement of a ride. Unfortunately, PayPal applies very bad conditions to Vietnamese account holders and we don't like that.

What other expenses should we expect? How much cash do we need to take with us?

In terms of costs we cover everything except telephone calls, tips, souvenirs, alcoholic drink and personal medical insurance. As there are often some impressive minority crafts to be found in the markets or some more bizarre products of Chinese origin bank on US$150-200 extra.

How will I meet you in Hanoi?

We will arrange a pre-departure briefing session to introduce to you the route (with maps) and the minority peoples with whom we'll come into contact, provide you with all the equipment, and cover any other outstanding issues. Please print our office map here.

Is an international licence valid in Vietnam?

Despite some press reports to the contrary Vietnam does recognise the validity of international licences. Whilst some authorities in remote regions may not be able to comprehend a document written in a foreign language they go a long way in smoothing out any potential difficulties should an issue arise. They also take care of any licence requirements that you might have in your insurance polices.

How do I get an international licence?

International licences can be provided on the spot at the motoring authority in your country (e.g. The AA in the UK or the NRMA in Australia). Take your existing national licence and passport photo to their office and for a small fee they will provide a licence along the same lines as your existing licence, valid for one year.

I'm concerned about the footwear situation; thinking about leaving walking boots at home to lighten the load, what do you recommend?

It's essential to have strong footwear for the tour to protect your feet whilst driving. Trekking shoes or leather boots are perfect. No driving in open-toed shoes. It is possible to buy a pair of boots (including big sizes) in Hanoi for about US$15.

I'm filling out the Vietnam visa application and they ask for the name, address of my contact in Vietnam. What should I enter?

It's not actually necessary to enter anything in this field. If you wish you may write the details of any hotel in Hanoi. To save money and time, try our visa letter assistance service (you pay 45$US in total).

I have more questions and don't find the answers here...

Please contact us or we can chat with you on-line on Yahoo IM or Skype, our screen name is offroadvietnam

CYCLING

Do you rent bikes or kayaks?

Only for our tours, not separately. If you would like a custom tour arranged we will rent you a bike as part of it. We have imported off-road bikes and hybrid bicycles all of which are in excellent mechanical condition and available in all sizes. We provide handlebar bags, pumps, bottles, and helmets. You may bring your own seat and pedals which we will mount for you. We replace our fleet every two years. Typically, about two-thirds of a group will rent bikes.

What cycling ability is required? How many miles do we ride per day?

We cannot emphasize enough that riding is at your pace. There is always be a support vehicle nearby and you are welcome to climb in whenever. We do not ride as a group to suit all interests, including those who like to stop a lot and sightsee, take photos, eat a large lunch and/or pack it in, but also those who prefer a fast, uninterrupted pace. To enjoy our tours you should be able to ride some of the day's route. However, to really enjoy our tours you should stop, frequently. Stop and visit the people along the way who are asking you to stop. These important experiences mean we are never in a hurry.

During our riding days the maximum mileage varies from 30 to 80 miles (although each tour's route varies). We often have a long and short group for those who want to ride less or longer on a given day. Riding days are spent at a leisurely pace (although that is up to you), and are usually followed by a busy rest day in our destination city. Bicycling is also an ideal way to explore towns on rest days and we often do. You'll also be surprised how far you can ride when that is really the only thing you have to do all day! We also allow for the serious cyclist, who may ride all days of the tour - over some six hundred sixty miles in two weeks in Vietnam. The level of difficulty is greater for Turkey with higher mileage, more climbing and fewer rest days.

On our Vietnam trips, we typically people who would describe themselves as travelers first. With our support buses and many staff, you can ride as little or as much as you wish (or not at all), without rushing, at your own pace. There is also a guide/mechanic accompanying the tour for repairs and support. We are flexible and can add distance options to the already 40-60 miles per day average. Stopover days include a city tour by bicycle. Our guides are competitive, long-distance cyclists and will able to escort you for any length of riding you want.

Who typically joins your tours?

Travelers and cyclists. Our tours are rich in cultural activities and diversions to attract those who have traveled the world and feel, as we do, that place like Vietnam are best visited so on bike.

Can you accommodate an independent traveler (I'm not a group travel-type)

We promise, no camp fire sing-alongs. Although this is a "group tour", almost all activities are optional. Our primary role is to provide the means for you to bicycle through a country that otherwise would be a difficult and demanding travel experience. Over the many years of traveling in Vietnam we are taking you through the best it has to offer. We take care of your luggage, hotels, food and transportation. However, we understand no two people enjoy travel in quite the same way and some prefer solitude versus a group experience which you are welcome to do.

Food and hotel quality?

If you're planning on shedding a few pounds during the tour, you will be disappointed. We eat very well and frequently on seafood, grilled meat, freshly cooked vegetables, soups, fruit and sweets, cold beer and even French and Italian food. Historically, complaints have been about too much good food! Air France's daily flight to Hanoi means good wine as does Turkey's Tuscan climate.

What is a typical day like?

We typically balance our tours between point-to-point travel days during which we ride most of the day, with optional stopping at points of interest and lunch along the way. After arrival, there is typically a couple hours before we regroup for dinner. In cities worth staying in over an extra day, such as Hoi An, we'll sightsee on and off the bike and have usually planned some optional activities such as a cooking demonstration or boat cruise.

What is the weather like?

Vietnam is a tropical monsoon climate ranging from hot & humid, to cool in the north. The normal temperature for Vietnam during the months of December through March are 80's and 90's, with Saigon in the higher 90's and up to 100F. There are cooler areas we will be in and the cool, damp weather shouldn't be ignored! You will be surprised. We have also had some years much cooler than average; in the 60's and 70's. We often break midday if the heat is high and our buses are air-conditioned. Turkey is a wonderful 70s to 80s, dry California climate. Please also see our weather page.

Type of bicycle to bring?

We do have hybrid rental bikes available in Vietnam, but we recommend that you bring your own if that's what you are comfortable with. A mountain bike with fatter road & dirt (hybrid) tires and a handlebar bag is best, although accustomed to touring or road bikes will have a few more flats but enjoy the extra speed. Most local bike shops will pack your bicycle for a small fee and bicycles fly free internationally. We will also handle transport and assembly once your bike arrives and packing it back up once again once you are ready to depart. Please make sure your bike has been tuned up and is in good working order before the trip - spare parts are difficult and even impossible to find in Vietnam.

How do the Sag Wagon (support buses) work?

They leapfrog riders and provide support, water, and refreshments every few miles. There are in contact via mobile phones and there are two guides on bikes for additional support.

Road Conditions?

Mostly in good condition, medium-traveled highways. During Tet, the roads have the least amount of traffic all year. Approximately 95% of the road is paved, but due to some gravel and potholes, road bikes with very skinny tires are not advisable unless that's the bike you are most comfortable on.

Safety?

Vietnam, Turkey, and Myanmar may conjure visions of dangerous places. In fact, Vietnam for example, is one of the safest destinations for travelers in the world. The popularity of our family trips bears witness to this. We choose to travel to these destinations because they are fascinating and because they are so different than our culture. Different does not mean dangerous, despite much of the media's presentation.

In regards to cycling safety, while in Myanmar, Basque Country and off-road in the Golden Triangle, traffic is sparse. On other tours, we try as much as possible to travel on sections with the least amount of traffic and newly-opened side roads. We always encourage cyclists to board the bus to skip sections they may not be comfortable with. We would be glad to put you in touch with past travelers of all abilities for a personal perspective.

Avian Flu & Other Dangers

With avian flu or SARS, please keep a rational perspective of the actual risks in mind despite a typically alarmist media. Avian flu has only been transmitted direct contact with chickens in poor, agrarian villages and has not been spread from human to human. Moreover, tourists are typically last in line for infectious disease. We travel to these places because they are profoundly interesting, but we wouldn't travel there unless they were also reasonably safe.

Are the side trips (tour extensions) really worth doing?

If you have the time, absolutely! These are places not to miss as they will be different than anything you will see on tour. The Khmer temples of Angkor and Halong Bay are UNESCO World Heritage Sites, one a spectacular natural setting, the other the Nile Valley of Asia. They are unique in the world and well worth the side trip. Most people do go on the pre-tour kayaking in Halong Bay.

Malaria (and other immunizations and vaccinations)?

For most tours, you will not need Japanese Encephalitis (which is required only during the monsoon season) nor Cholera (exposure would be very rare). Malaria is more controversial - at least in print, and may ultimately be more of a personal decision. The primary reasons a malaria prophylaxis would not be not needed is the short time you would be in Vietnam, the accommodations you would be staying in (mosquito-proof), the region and areas you are traveling in (along the coast and overnighting in urban environments where incidence is low). Malaria occurs much more frequently in the low-altitude jungle areas that are sparsely inhabited.

With diligence, some luck and adequate avoidance habits (especially at dusk -- wearing trousers and long sleeve shirts with a DEET-based repellent on exposed skin), it is not impossible to make it through the entire tour without being bitten. Consider taking the newer prophylaxis, Malerone, which is much milder than it's predecessor, Larium, which was harsh to some people (with questionable side-effects).

Travel Insurance recommendations?

SARS, Avian flu, airline bankruptcies, and terrorist activity have made travel plans much more sensitive to disruption. Travel insurance is strongly recommended and required for all of our two-week tours. For a side-by-side comparative analysis of several leading insurance providers, go to www.insuremytrip.com. Specific companies you may wish to look at are:
- Access America (www.accessamerica.com)
- CSA Travel Protection (www.csatravelprotection.com)
- Travel Guard International (www.travelguard.com)
- Travel Insured International (www.travelinsured.com)
- Travel Safe (www.travelsafe.com)

I still have more questions...

If you would like to contact us directly, you may e-mail us at tours@offroadvietnam.com