Banana Boat Ride

Amazing country, beautifully seen from the seat of a bicycle. So many unusual sights - friendly people (attractive, relaxed, smiling, shouting hello); fields of rice, coffee, rubber, eucalyptus, dragon fruit, etc., farmers herding brown cows and water buffalo; basic living conditions, cooking, eating and washing-up in the open, spilling out onto pavement; scooters everywhere and crazy driving but it seems to work, no road rage; great respect for older people and ancestors (colourful cemeteries and every house has small ancestral shrine). Came back with a real feel for the country, wanting to learn more

We were part of a group of 17 who quickly formed a close bond created entirely by the enthusiasm and generosity of our leader. Nothing was too much trouble Long went out of his way every day to make sure we experienced in full life in Vietnam. The trip ran like clockwork, without us feeling we were being rushed at any stage. He made it fun even when we cycled 100 k in a day taking in a very high mountain pass.

The customer service before departure was excellent, the organisation from start to finish was excellent, the accommodation was better than expected, the group leader was excellent, the itinerary was excellent. As a solo female traveller I felt completely comfortable with the rest of the group whether they were traveling alone, with friends or with partners. The mix of activities, geographical locations, sights, sounds, terrain and communities left you feeling like you had experienced and encountered Vietnam, its history, its people and its landscape.