Internationale groepsreis Cycle Indochina & Angkor - Premium

CYCLE INDOCHINA & ANGKOR

A superbly organised, very well catered for holiday made even more enjoyable by the extent of which the local knowledge was shared and the historical events explained. Superb.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Visiting the Killing Fields in Cambodia and the realisation of the forgiveness amongst the Cambodian of today.

What did you think of your group leader?

Chaiya was superb. So attentive and extremely helpful. Very friendly and yet very professional. The team who worked with him in all 3 countries were amazing. Cannot thank them enough for making the holiday one to remember for a long long time.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Jelly seats or jelly pants are a must!

Is there anything else you would like to add?

First cycling holiday for me and hopefully one of many to come. I totally enjoyed the trip and the contrast in the scenary and the culture was aweinspiring. Definitely one to do.

Bangkok to Saigon - a trip to remember

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

I think what I found most amazing was the huge diffrences between these three neighbouring cultures.  Each time you crossed a border you were instantly in another world.  Thailand is lush and green, Vietnam is vibrant whereas in Cambodia the contrast between the amazing cultural heritage of Angkor Wat and Pnomh Penh is at such enormous contrast with the poverty and devastation left by the war.  In all three countries the welcome we were given was awesome.  It was like being royalty every time we rode into a village and had little kids yelling hello and lining the side of the road to high five you.  Really beautiful people despite the fact that they really have every right to detest Westerners.

What did you think of your group leader?

We had an over all group leader and then a different country guide for each country.  All were very knowledgable and good company but very different, reflecting the cultural differences identified above.  Some people in the group were frustrated in Cambodia and blamed the local guide for small things which went wrong.  However I think it is important to remember that this is not the West - life is not so predictable and you really have to take things in your stride and view it all as part of the adventure.  The only comment I would make is that the group leader did not always lead as much as he needed to but was sometimes overwhelmed by the louder voices within the group to the detriment of the group as a whole.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Go for it.  make sure you train but don't push yourself beyond your limit - it is meant to be a holiday after all!  Take the mini bus if you want to!  The trip is really well broken down into chunks with lots of rest stops and lots of snacks and drinks but 90km in very high temperatures is hard work whatever you do. Malaria tablets can make mornings a little tricky as we spend half of it on the loo!  Accommodation is all really good.  We carried mosquito nets, etc and needed none of it.  It was always a really pleasant surprise at the end of the day and the hotel in Siem Reap really is lovely.  Buy everything you want in Cambodia.  Things are both dearer and poorer quality in Vietnam.  Be patient with the kids even when they drive you round the bend.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Choose your trip well.  This is a "B" graded trip and is designed to enable you to see as much of the country and people as you can.  If your aim is to go as far and as fast as you can don't choose this trip.  We had too many of that type on our trip and it kind of spoiled it for those of us who had read the label.  This is a cultural experience - not a bike race!  The people, especially the children are so desperate to be friendly - it is such a waste to whiz by them.  Finishing the last days cycle in the knowledge that we had crossed three countries and come 500 odd kilometres was an amazing feeling - great sense of achievement. Enjoy - it is a memorable trip.

Brilliant

A great experience,perfect combination of cycling,temples and cities, through three interesting countries with like minded travelers and a great guide Rit.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Not one but many, Cycling up and through the Angor temples. The children greeting and high fiving you when cycling through the small villages, The rides in Thailand with the Black family Mr black the support truck driver and photographer, his sons Noor and Nok the support riders, the snack break all prepared before we arrived at each stop and dinner at night with the group watching the days photos and video. The road side markets selling Snakes,Rats and spiders and finally the warmth and friendliness of the local people in each country. The laughs with the group and Rit.

What did you think of your group leader?

I read the reviews of Rit before we traveled and completely agree with them in that he is a genuinely caring generous person with a huge smile and is always making sure everyone is enjoying themselves.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

read the trip notes, all the advise is there and enjoy the trip.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

The level of organisation was excellent in all the countries and especially Thailand and the trip was exactly as it is described.

Indo china premium cycle tour

A thoroughly enjoyable trip. Fantastic scenery off the beaten track and away from tourists to see the real countryside and how the locals live. Our guide was very knowledgeable and great fun and took us to eat local street food that he knew was safe. Food was dirt cheap in Thailand and Cambodia. A bit more expensive in Vietnam. Wine was expensive but beer was cheap. We were lucky with the weather and had only one day where we got drenched. The rest of the time it was hot and steamy. Don't take any notice of the Exodus currency advice. We found it incorrect. Take US dollars only. We took pounds sterling and couldn't change them anywhere and had to supplement the few dollars we had with an ATM withdrawal. Take some Thai baht but don't bother with Cambodian Real or Vietnamese Dong. If you are reasonably fit and adventurous then this is for you. There were support vehicles a plenty if you needed a rest. The snacks provided were very welcome at the breaks. The only negative if you can call it that was the hotels. Excellent 4 star plus but you could have been anywhere in the world. We would have preferred more character. The air con however was very welcome. The most characterful stay was at the homestead in the Mekong delta on an island

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Cycling on tracks by the Mekong though local villages. We all got horse responding to the locals saying hello all the time. Very friendly. The river trip to the floating market was also unusual and interesting. You have to do the extra trip to the CuChi tunnels near Saigon. The saddest morning was the visit to the Killing fields and torture prison in Cambodia. You have to do it just to appreciate the horrendous time the country went through. A thoughtful and moving experience.

What did you think of your group leader?

Chai was excellent. His local knowledge was a great help and he knew al the best places to sample local food at dirt cheap prices. He was very conscious of safety on the roads and wherever we went and we never felt uncomfortable anywhere. He organised everything and everyone wonderfully and even provided a helping hand to some the group up some of the minor hills. The countryside is flat as a pancake with a few gentle inclines but the heat and humidity take it out of you. Chai ensured that we had regular stops for water etc usually about every 15 km.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Take US dollars only or include some Thai baht. Don't take pounds sterling. Take suncream and ensure you take your deet mossie spray. We didn't see many but my wife had a few bites even so. Also take your malaria tablets.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Of the 4 Exodus cycle trip we have taken this one comes second to the Coata Rica coast to coast. However this one has to be the best supported from a local guide and leader perspective. Go for it, all our group thoroughly enjoyed it. The local bike team in Thailand had some new toys and made a video of the trip during the three days we were in Thailand. An excellent addition to all our photos.

CYCLE INDOCHINA & ANGKOR

An excellent trip, made all the better by having an excellent Tour Guide, Nee, and helpers and an excellent group to be with.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Difficult to pin this one down to a single moment. Cycling through three different Asian countries and seeing the differing countryside and experiencing the different cultures (albeit briefly in many instances) was great. Getting roasted in 40 degree heat and then soaked 10 minutes later I also found great. Seeing the Wats aren't necessarily my sort of thing, but Angkor Wat was good and the other temples were just as interesting in their own way. The most moving part for me was seeing the Floating Village where you can appreciate how lucky we are compared to how other families have to live. Similarly, visiting the Killing Fields and S21 was an emotional day.

What did you think of your group leader?

Excellent. I'd seen previous reviews saying how good Nee was and was pleased when it was her that picked us up at the airport. She was experienced at doing the trip and this showed. She was confident and informative at all times. She managed to get 18 of us up and out at the right time and, although it didn't show, she paced the group well to get us where we were going and arrive at reasonable times. She got to know the abilities and requirements of each member of the group very quickly thereby keeping all of us happy. She was always observant noticing if anything wasn't right and primarily, she kept us as safe as possible. Further, the logistics of organising 18 people through 2 border crossings, in different hotels most nights, with different guides, different Support and Mechanical teams in different countries, and all the organisation for the individual buses to the Temples or from Seam Reap to Phnom Penn for example etc., this must be immense but it happened seamlessly. So good organisational skills too.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Don't overpack. You can get laundry done at various points and is good and cheap. Many of our group cycled in Sandals and they were fine so Quick Drying shoes would be good (but with a toe cap for protection and a stiffish sole). A waterproof camera (if you're into taking pictures) as you don't generally have to carry anything on your bike but may want to take a snap or two. Be prepared to get wet in the rainy season. You won't get cold though. It's a personal choice whether you use a waterproof - Many didn't on our trip and were fine.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

The first few days in Thailand are the hardest cycle days so be prepared for that but it's mainly flat so generally manageable. Be prepared to spend about $150 to $170 in tips in total (Incl the Tour Guide). Although there is a 'tipping' kitty which is great there always seems to be another collection for a guide who isn't part of the kitty which can get confusing and tedious. But you just need to remember that there are an awful lot of people that assist you throughout the trip and over 14 days and it's still very reasonable.  If in doubt about choosing this trip, don't be, go for it, it was great.

CYCLE INDOCHINA & ANGKOR

Just finished the cycle and can only say positive things, the teams on every leg of the journey is amazing, we had a mixed group of ability and no one was every left behind. The team have a safety first policy and if there is one thing about this trip, you will never leave feeling hungry thirsty or not knowing the answer to every question you have.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

The local people The amazing guides

What did you think of your group leader?

You could not ever ask for better! Nee was amazing there 24/7 whenever you needed her, she was was fun but serious when she needed to be when it came to your safety. And I should not forget Dyka and Yan, fun and knowledge of Cambodia and Vietnam is second to none.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Book !! Just come and have a great time. I was travelling alone but the group and the guides made me feel from day one that we were all on the trip as one. You will have a great time.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

The guides where second to now, and exodus policies where exceptional

CYCLE INDOCHINA & ANGKOR

An amazingly well coordinated trip with a huge effort put in from the leader and her 'aides'. 

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Seeing and being part of the countries  lifestyle's  and seeing the countries as they actually are. The safety consciousness taken for the clients to the utmost level.

What did you think of your group leader?

Unforgetable and very, very responsible and helpful.  It was mentioned among the group (several who had travelled with Exodus and other companies) that she was the best they had ever come across.   

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Sadly I felt that the Vietnamese support group let the quality of the rest of the journey down.  In all aspects. Also not keen on tipping at the end of each leg after we had already put in $55 tip kitty.  One way or the other. 

CYCLE INDOCHINA & ANGKOR

The whoe trip was thoroughly enjoyable and well organized.  Our trip leader Rit was a bastion of calmness and common sense, making sure thta everyone had everything they needed.  In Cambodia, Fila was passionate about his country and made the visit both enjoyable and enlightening.  In Vietnam, Tiet guided us well and gave us a good insight into life in VietnamThe group was of mixed abilities with everyone fully commitiing to the holiday.  The cycle was long at the start but soon a rhythm was established. 

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Angkor Wat was the highlight of the trip for me

What did you think of your group leader?

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Is there anything else you would like to add?

CYCLE INDOCHINA & ANGKOR

Fantastic. Fun, exciting, energetic and an engaging experience!

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

The welcoming joy of the children in the more remote places.

What did you think of your group leader?

Absolutely excellent! A beaming smile, immaculate administration and contagious sense of humour. Nee (and her helpful assistants) went a long way to making this the fabulous trip that it was.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Arrive in Bangkok a few days prior and spend some time there before the cycle.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

A brilliant experience, with brilliant people, and the best way to see this part of the world!

CYCLE INDOCHINA & ANGKOR

This was one of the most amazing trips i've done so far! Amazing scenery, people and a great company to do it with. Thank you!

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

There were so many! I loved the small villages we passed through that had such happy children wanting to say hello and high five. I thought the temples in Cambodia were awe inspiring. The home stay was fantastic! The entire trip was amazing!

What did you think of your group leader?

Are group leader was exactly what is required in a group of are size and willfulness. Authoritive when required, Caring and supportive when neccesary, Fun and amusing, but above all, very informative, social and instructive. Thanks Nee.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Enjoy the trip rather than thinking of the next destination. Its very easy to think about the next cycle stop and power through until all the cycling for the day is complete, with out actually enjoying the scenery, views, and place to its full extent. The holiday seems to go so quickly when you do this. Just slow down a little when passing through villages and gorgeous scenary and remember you can stop for photographs at anytime. 

Is there anything else you would like to add?

CYCLE INDOCHINA & ANGKOR

We spent a magical, wonderful fortnight in great company, if possible we would just go back on the spot and re-run the whole trip !

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Difficult to pin this one down to a single moment. Cycling through three different Asian countries and seeing the differing countryside and experiencing the different cultures with different backgrounds, languages and mind-sets was great.  Combining this - in itself - great experience with having the chance getting to know a group of around 20 completely diverse, interesting and pleasant individuals from various countries/nations/continents by way of sweating, eating, laughing, talking, marvelling and pedalling along together was just magnificent.

What did you think of your group leader?

Nee is just brilliant, there's no other word for it. Apart from the fact that she is one of the most agreeable persons we have met in a very long time she is absolutely experienced as a tour guide and at doing the trip. She is confident, informative and helpful at all times. She managed to get our group up, out and going at the right time, meaning that she got to know the abilities of each group member very quickly and paced us that well that we arrived everywhere in time without anyone of us feeling being rushed or pushed. She did not only manage getting to know our abilities very quickly, but seemed to have a sixth sense for our personal requirements, preferences and interests in no time at all thereby keeping all of us happy. Not to forget that she was always acutely observant noticing if anything could be improved and primarily, she kept us as safe as possible. Nee's organisational skills - starting from organising our group through 2 border crossings, in different hotels most nights, liaising with different guides, support and mechanical teams and hotel managers to tasks , just to mention food, like seeing to it that there is enough and exactly the required food at lunches/dinners for a mix of vegetarians, allergics, and other specialists - are exceptional. I simply admired her steady and patient cheerfulness while helping us with all sorts of things. Last but not least, and definitely not to forget  - her contagious sense of humour.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Don't overpack. You can get laundry done at various points and is good and cheap. But: if you are used cycling at home with your own bike fitted to your size/geometry bring your own saddle, handlebars (will help to avoid your fingers/hands feeling needles and pins/getting numb) and (click)-pedals. The bikes are nice enough, but a bit of your own gear will help you to feel better (especially the long distances in Thailand). And do not forget to pack decent clothes for visits to temples or other places of worship (Ladies: Sarongs will not suffice anymore!) so you can show your respect to the Thai, Cambodian and Vietnamese people and their beliefs and religions, just the same you would expect them to show their respect to the places you hold in high esteem. Reading the trip notes properly (sometime before you start to travel) definitely helps ! Listening to the advice of your tour guide and not to draft while biking helps as well to keep you happy and safe !

Is there anything else you would like to add?

We are looking forward to doing MOT, MOL as soon as we can !

CYCLE INDOCHINA AND ANGKOR WAT

What an amazing trip, we could not of been looked after better by the guides and could not of seen so many interesting sites and experiences without them.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

1. Cycling around the Mekong Delta through small Vietnamese villages where the locals could not of been more friendly, I felt like the queen waving all the way through and permanently saying hello to the children. 2. Homestay in the Mekong Delta sampling rat, spiders and rather too much rice wine.  2. On a more serious note seeing S21 and the killing fields in Cambodia are experiences I will never forget.

What did you think of your group leader?

Our group leader was absolutely AWESOME!  He could not have looked after the group better, was great fun and was extremely patient even in difficult situations.  In the event I go back to Thailand I would ask to join a tour with him as leader again.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

If you are going on a cycling tour try and take a gel seat with you, the 90km days could be rather painful without one.  Despite it being the rainy season I was suprised that it only rained twice whilst we were cycling so you don't need to worry about being overly well kitted out for rain.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Thanks to Al, Wason, Sam and Tom for a great trip, all four of whom added different stories and qualities to the different sections of the tour.

CYCLE INDOCHINA & ANGKOR

This trip was brilliant, great variety, great cycling, fantastic food and accommodation that exceeded expectations!

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Completely confronting but at the same time thought provoking was the Killing Fields and S21. Stimulated thought of how best to help people still impacted by these experiences. Most scenic and amazing was of course Angkor Wat!

What did you think of your group leader?

Rit was absolutely fantastic. Our comfort and safety was a priority to him and he always ensured we looked after ourselves and our belongings. He had the most calm and caring nature and was genuinely interested in our happiness and enjoyment. I would highly recommend Rit as the tour leader for any group. Rit added an extra dimension to the trip, truly making it a trip of a lifetime! The trip was so well organised and ran so smoothly!

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Gel bike seat, gel bike gloves and padded cycling pants a must!

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Huge thanks to Rit for making my holiday the most amazing experience!

CYCLE INDOCHINA & ANGKOR

An absolutely brilliant trip! Full of sights, sounds, tastes, impressions of all kinds. I would do it again anytime.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

There was no specific moment, because the trip was full of them - all the time, morning, afternoon and night. Off course there were  well known, spectacular highlights of different kinds like the Angkor area in Siem Reap, the terrible story of the Killing Fields and Tuol Sleng in Phnom Pehn, the Cu Chi viet cong tunnels in Saigon and so on. But for me the greatest part of the trip was the cycling outside the cities, in the rural areas and the small villages. The hearty velcome of the people who lives there, the glimpse into their lives, the amazing activities of all kinds along the road, the changing landscape and different roads  - amazing!

What did you think of your group leader?

Our group's slogan: "Rit is our favouRITe" sums it all up. Rit (Saowarit Aphiwatthanakul) is the perfect group leader, well organized, caring and responsible. He called us his "Cycling Family", and that is what he made us feel like - a big happy cycling family. Rit is not a big man, but he has a natural authority paired with the biggest smile ever - great guy!

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Just do it, you will never regret it! Do not be afraid of the cycling! This trip is suitable for all levels as there always is a bus and a truck following  - are you tired one day, you can sit in the bus. The routes are very well planned with little traffic. Remember: - Padded cycling shorts - 2 if you have, because you WILL get sweaty!- Cycling gloves as your hands will get burnt- Sun cream and -BLOCK- Bag to attach to the bike for camera etc - important!- US Dollars in small notes- GPS if you have- You can wash clothes cheap and very good at lokal laundries at least two times along the trip- Small gifts two the numerous children that you will meet along the way. We brought With us a small travelling mascot, the IKEA bear, the kids LOVED him and I would have liked to be able to give away some of those.....

Is there anything else you would like to add?

If you like, take a look at my blog from the trip: gladehjul.blogspot.com It is in Norwegian, but there are lots of photos.

A holiday to remember

A fantastic journey through three very varied countries: rural Thailand with its green fields and rolling hills, hectic city life meets ancient temples in Cambodia - and the meeting of the two that is Vietnam. It's a real treat for cyclists and history buffs alike in a part of the world with a fascinating but thought-provoking and sometimes harrowing past.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

The local people were the biggest inspiration; many of them live humble, uncluttered lives, work hard and seem genuinely happy. Others – such as our guide at the Killing Fields – had been directly affected by conflict but used their experience to really bring the country’s history to life.   Also worthy of a mention was the day on which I heard the most beautiful music coming from a forest which ran alongside the road. I thought it was a temple - or someone playing an instrument during a break from their work. It was truly a magical moment, when – from behind the trees – emerged a couple of blokes in a van piled high with bric-a-brac with their radio on… 

What did you think of your group leader?

From the moment we arrived - after almost a day in transit – to our farewells at Ho Chi Minh airport, Rit’s cheerful demeanour, sense of humour and absolute professionalism stood out. He is passionate about cycling and I had complete confidence that he’d make sure we had fun but stayed safe from any crazy drivers while out and about.   Nothing was ever too much bother for Rit – he was there at breakfast to answer any questions or offer a bit of sympathy in return for tales of ‘undulating’ bellies. He made sure we knew how to get our laundry done or where we could find water and snacks.   There’s no doubt that looking after the welfare of 18 people and managing three different driving crews is a huge responsibility, but Rit is so well-organised and such a people person it seems to come naturally. I was really touched by the birthday cake he and the Thailand guys arranged for my 40th – it was a lovely thought.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

  You’ll have the opportunity to use the excellent local laundry services both in Siem Reap and HCMC so don’t overpack! Don’t try to bring your spent gun shells home from the Cu Chi tunnels – they will be confiscated by airport security and you'll face a long walk back to the freedom of the departure gate Dollars are widely accepted in Cambodia (bring low denominations), but I found it easier to use local currency in Thailand and Vietnam. The food is often served warm rather than piping hot – it took a bit of getting used to!  

Is there anything else you would like to add?

The homestay in the Mekong Delta in Vietnam was fantastic. It was an experience which will stay with me (and I don't mean because of the mozzie bites!) The only downside for me was Phnom Penh; after 3 days in the tourist mecca that is Siem Reap I would have loved some time to chill out in the countryside rather than another evening in a busy, westernised city.

CYCLE INDOCHINA & ANGKOR

Another superbly organised trip thanks to Exodus and our local guides and support staff. So many positives can not think of a better way to avoid two weeks of cold wet weather in the UK in January.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Long cycling rides in 35+ degree temperatures through rural villages, being waived to and smiled at by the friendly locals, the amazing sites of the Wats, the sadness of the killing fields and S21, the interesting history of the Cu Chi Tunnels, nice hotels, good food (and plenty of it), a night on an island in the Mekong Delta, relaxed and quiet with a cold beer on the verandah and even a cooking lesson if you want it, great travelling companions and last but certainly not least, a great tour leader (Rit).

What did you think of your group leader?

Our tour leader Rit was superb. He was cool, calm and collected at all times, friendly, helpful and always smiling. Nothing was too much trouble for him and he was always availble to help with any problems that arose (not that there were very many of those). He was well supported by the teams in each of the three countries we visited and a special mention to Mr Black (owner of the cycle hire company in Thailand) and also Mr Nod, who cycled at the back of the pack to ensure no one was left behind. Mr Black was also an accomplished photographer and took thousands of excellent photos of everybody in the group as we cycled along. Also a BIG thankyou to Rit and the team who organised a surpirse ice cream birthday cake and photo slideshow for my partner at the evening meal. Also a thank you to Mr Lam in Vietnam for letting us visit his home village for lunch with his family and being very informative during our Vietnam visit.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Don't overpack - there are two places to do laundry on the trip so you really only need 7 days of clothing. Ensure you bring some insect spray (Deet) many of us were bitten by mozzies. Bring a 32gb usb memory stick as Mr Black (see above) is happy to put all of the photos / videos of the group on it for you, alternatively he does put them on facebook as well. When you go to the Cu Chi tunnels, there is the opportunity to fire some guns at a firing range, you are offered the empty shells as a souvenir, but as I found out at the airport on departure you will most likely be stopped and have them removed (slightly worrying at the time) As you will be visitng three countries an exhange rate convertor app on your phone would be useful. Bring a day pack for carrying your essentials, cameras, sun lotion etc, but you won't need to cycle with it (leave in the support vehicle) we had regualr stops when cycling and the refreshments provided - fresh fuit, choc bars, peanut brittle etc and cold water were plentiful. There are also rehydration sachets available so no need to bring those.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

The hotels on this trip were of a higher standard than on previous trips I have travelled. All were clean and room sizes were very good. A couple of them did have swimming pools (so may be worth bringing your trunks for a dip) Why four stars and not five? Our first night hotel was changed from one in Bangkok to a remote location out of the city (probably due to the current troubles there). Although the cycling in Thailand was excellent through rural villages and quiet roads, it was a shame to miss out on the capital. It kind of felt like we saw the countryside of Thailand but not the country itself (if that makes sense)

CYCLE INDOCHINA & ANGKOR

An excellent way of visiting three exotic countries. 

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

There were insperational moments every day, i.e:  Riding along the countryside together with the lovely people in the group. The homestay in Mekong delta - being out into the jungle - listening to the sounds of the animals in the night. The wonder of Angkor Wat. Learning about the horror of Killing fields. 

What did you think of your group leader?

Rit was a marvellous leader: he always tried to do the best for us. Always nice and smiling and caring. He is the best!

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Bring padded shorts and suncream Bring dollars, small notes Arrive one day ahead to cope with the jetlag Bring small gifts to give to the local children on your way Just book now - it's a wonderful trip   

Is there anything else you would like to add?

The snacks, fruits and drinks we got at the breaks, were delicious, especially in Thailand. All payed some dollars to the kitty snacks We missed maps - would have been nice to see our cycling paths The first days, in Thailand, were the least interesting cycling days: the longest in the same type of landscape. A bit odd to have the longest riding days in the beginning of the trip The hotels were far beyond the standard we had expected  All the teams in all countries were very good, especially The Blackgroup in Thailand, they were amazing in their support - and we were very impressed of the thousands of photos they made  Mr Lam in Vietnam and the lunch and visit to the homestay to his family, we enjoyed very much 

CYCLE INDOCHINA & ANGKOR

An exciting ride through three countries with varied and wonderful experiences. You must do it!

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

So many: cycling on road and off road by quiet plantations, jungle, forests, rivers, canals, deserted hamlets, markets, and also through busy towns and exciting local traffic. Friendly waves everywhere.  The highly impressive Angkor Wat, but also rest stops at ordinary local Buddhist temples. Homestay and boat trips in the Mekon Delta Visiting the haunting Killing Fields and the S 21 detention centre, as well as exploring the Vietcong tunnels. Distressing, but important to experience. Saigon by day and night- a beautifu, vibrant city Good accommodation and outstanding food at great value . At lunches and evening meals we experienced a range of truly delicious local dishes. 

What did you think of your group leader?

Nee was outstanding in every way: kind, considerate, attentive to the needs both of the group and of individuals, funny and so well informed. Definitely one of the very best leaders ever.  She led a very good, supportive team of guides, drivers, mechanics and cyclists.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

The bikes were very good, but I was glad I brought my own saddle and pedals: having clip-on shoes was an advantage. I also brought a small saddlebag to fix on my saddle, so I did not have to carry anything on my back in the heat. But then you can access your things from the support bus every 10-20K. No need to bring cycle snacks- the provisions at every rest stop were amazing. There was water, electrolyte sachets, iced tea and coffee, coke. To eat we had many delicious fruit, nuts, biscuits and local delicacies to try.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

I liked the way that the weaker cyclists were given lots of support, never isolated, occasionally given a helpful push up the hills (these are really only on day 3 in Thailand, and the opportunity is there to have a 10k rest in the bus whenever you choose). My only reservation was that we "did" four other temples as well as Angkor Wat in just over a day, and that felt to me one or two too many to appreciate properly. Perhaps we could then have done a little more cycling.

Cycling through a Monsoon - Fabulous!

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

By cycling, we got the best feel for the countries we visited, that we could possibly have had.  Thailand was beautiful with it's Tapioca fields and Temples, Cambodia was a land of contrasts with the magnificent Angkor Wat and the thought provoking Killing Fields and finally, cycling through the mother of all monsoons in chaotic Vietnam, for the best Crocodile kebabs in Asia!

What did you think of your group leader?

Tour leader Joe was an extremely knowledgable & helpful all round Good Guy, who was ably assisted by Jacky, Sam and Lhong along the way.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Don't bother with the waterproofs, the rain is warm!

Is there anything else you would like to add?

The planning and logistics of the tour were unbeatable.  It would have been nice to have had a night (the first night, maybe?) in Bangkok.

CYCLE INDOCHINA AND ANGKOR WAT

A superb way to visit three contrasting countries and to sample a variety of differing cultures..emotional and inspirational 

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

During our stay in Cambodia we visited the temple ruins at Ankgor..such an awsome display of temples that it left you wanting more. I have never seen such a complex of fascinating temples and to cycle through the complex was a joy and a fantastic way to travel between the various sites. Angkor Wat is breathtaking and really worth the early start. I was truly inspired by our guide at the genocide museum and the killing fields. This man had lived through brutalities but showed no anger or biterness and he shared these emotions with us.Very moving and although unpleasant to listen to I would not have missed this .

What did you think of your group leader?

Joey the main leader was superb. He was very professional and allowed us all our own space but always ensured that our needs were met. He was very polite and nothing was too much trouble.Joey loved the bikes and got up early to clean them for us! The local guides were also highly knowledgeable and very friendly.They were all passionate about their own countries espescially Mr T (Cambodia) who was a walking history book!

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

My advice is just book this! The organisation was perfect and everything was laid on for us. I am not a great cyclist but managed the miles.There are some long days but there is no pressure to ride fast and the support vehicles are always on hand for you. This trip is great for mixing with the local communities for example the homestay visit was such a laugh,all under one roof with a local family and a fridge stocked full of beer....and rice wine which was free!!In Thailand our pit stops were at local temples with the monks, and local non touristy restauraunts were always the order of the day. I would advise travellers NOT to take travellers cheques as I had difficulty cashing them..there are safety deposit boxes in nearly all of the hotels used which I have to say were all of a decent standard.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

This was my first trip travelling with a group, my first solo travelling holiday and my first cycling holiday and I am hooked!! What a great way to meet other like minded people..in the sun..with some beers! Perhaps I was lucky with my fellow travellers but I can not fault this holiday in any way. The ONLY negative point for me was that the bikes used in Vietnam were a bit ropey....they had obviously seen better days and there were a few of us who did not have the right size frame but this did not detract from my enjoyment. The locals were kind and made us feel welcome and the children in all three countries are just amazingly happy and you will be saying Hello at least 1000 times a day to the kids!