Trip Challenge: A Bike Trip in Vietnam

cyclist is looking for a more adventurous destination for his next bike trip. From November 2012 By Amy Farley Appeared as "Trip Doctor: So How Do I Plan...A Cycling Tour?" in T+L Magazine I’ve biked my way through Europe and am ready for something more adventurous. Can you suggest an affordable, culturally rich itinerary in an up-and-coming destination? —Travis Schoenleber, Boston, Mass. The Destination: For an experience that hits the right balance between value and culture, we recommend Vietnam, where you’ll have intimate access to local communities, markets, temples, and regional cuisine. Outfitters:Marco Polo Travel Bicycling & Walking Vacations (11 nights from $1,695) has an easygoing 110-mile route that starts in Hanoi and winds through the ancient capital of Hué. Pedalers Pub & Grille (13 nights from $2,095) offers a moderate course (about 36 miles per day) through the striking landscape of Mai Châu; you’ll stop to sample delicacies along the way. If you have a larger budget and crave the creature comforts of luxury hotels, a trip from Hanoi to Saigon on luxury cycling tour (13 nights from $4,398) covers Hanoi and Da Nang and crosses into SaiGon, while an itinerary from www.bikingvietnam.com: includes cycling the farmland near Hoi An and dinner with royal descendants in Hué. Packing Essentials: Biking gloves; a hat; sunglasses; bug repellent; low-cut walking or hiking shoes; a day pack. Fast Facts When to Go: Jan.–May, Sep.–Dec. Getting There: Most itineraries start in Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City. Fly into Noi Bai International Airport (HAN) or Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN), respectively. Visa: Required. Vaccines/Medicine: Hepatitis A and B and typhoid, plus antimalarials in some rural destinations. Visit cdc.gov/travel for more.