VI
EN
38 days of unlimited exploration
Spending 38 days traveling through 16 provinces and cities, Diem Huyen had a fascinating journey of discovery. She shared: “I’ve always loved traveling and admiring the beauty of my homeland. This time, thanks to having free time, I decided to take a long trip to explore to my heart's content.”
Previously, Diem Huyen frequently took short trips, lasting about 3-5 days, to explore new places. She planned such trips every 2-3 months, mostly focusing on the Central Highlands and South Central regions of Vietnam.
38 days traveling through 16 provinces and cities.
For this 38-day cross-Vietnam trip, Diem Huyen spent two months meticulously researching every detail. From learning about landmarks, tourist attractions, routes, and accommodations to identifying terrain, gas station locations, and travel tips, everything was planned in detail. Thanks to this, she was able to accurately estimate her budget, including fuel costs, food, entrance fees, and unforeseen expenses.
From Saigon, Diem Huyen began her journey of exploring the country by train to Hanoi. Afterward, she successively discovered the majestic beauty of the North. Continuing her journey, she traveled through the Northwest provinces, then down to the Central region, and concluded her trip in Tien Giang.
Diem Huyen spent two whole months meticulously researching every little detail for the trip.
Overcome limitations, conquer your dreams.
Before setting off, Diem Huyen mentally prepared herself for the difficulties she might encounter. Despite riding a motorbike in the rainy season, facing treacherous, slippery roads, and even sections barely wide enough for one vehicle, she remained determined to conquer them. Her initial anxiety quickly gave way to excitement as she overcame each challenge. Each time she conquered a difficult stretch of road, she felt much stronger.
Diem Huyen had mentally prepared herself for the difficulties she might encounter.
"Trekking trips were quite challenging for me because I'd never tried anything like it before. I don't do any sports, so it was pretty tough. There were times when my knees were burning hot, and my heart felt like it was going to stop from exhaustion," the 2001-born girl recalled.
Above all, the stretch of DT217 from Khau Coc Cha Pass to Khau Vai was truly a significant challenge. The muddy, steep dirt road, with a deep ravine on one side and a cliff on the other, kept Diem Huyen tense every moment. In particular, the section crossing the Nho Que River on a bamboo raft left a deep impression on her. The rain made the journey even more slippery and dangerous. However, these difficulties tempered her willpower and provided her with unforgettable experiences.
The excitement she felt as she overcame each challenge.
As darkness fell, the narrow dirt road snaked like a thread through the mountains and forests. The pattering rain on the thatched roofs mingled with the whistling wind, creating a wild symphony. Each time she overcame a difficult stretch of road, Diem Huyen felt as if she were conquering a mountain peak. When she finally reached the homestay, the fatigue vanished, replaced by joy and pride.
“I was carrying over 20 kg of luggage on my scooter, so it was very difficult. My friend had to get off and walk, and hold the scooter when needed. Because the road was slippery and the brakes were ineffective, and there was a ravine on one side, my scooter kept skidding and the wheels kept veering off course. When I arrived at the homestay at 8 pm, the owner was very surprised and said he admired me because a girl riding a scooter in the rain on that road was something he had been on before and was still afraid to do again,” Diễm Huyền said.
Every time she overcame a difficult stretch of road, Diem Huyen felt like she was conquering a mountain peak.
Pocket guide to traveling across Vietnam
Crossing Vietnam is a long and challenging journey, but it's well worth the experience. Besides careful planning regarding costs and itinerary, be prepared for unexpected events and ready to explore new things. For a smooth and safe trip, you should prepare thoroughly in all aspects, from finances and health to the route and transportation. In particular, research the routes, weather conditions, and important considerations for backpacking trips.
As the lyrics of Den Vau say, "The days when your legs aren't tired are hard to buy even with money." Take advantage of your youth to experience and explore, because beautiful memories will stay with you for a lifetime.
Crossing Vietnam is a long and challenging journey, but it's also well worth the experience.
