Cycling across Vietnam at 21, why not?

“That was the first time I had such a long trip by bicycle,” Cuc recalled. Previously, Cuc’s longest trip was less than 500 km.

Knowing about "Cycling across Vietnam" from a friend who had done it three seasons before, Cuc suddenly thought: "My friend is petite and can ride a bike, so why can't I?". Having a passion for discovery and traveling, and motivated after sharing and carefully studying cross-Vietnam journeys, Cuc was determined to go.

Choosing bicycle as a means of transport to travel across Vietnam

During the summer of her third year of university, Cuc had a lot of free time. She thought that if she didn't go now, it would be difficult to do so later. In her final year after graduation, she would be busy looking for a job and worrying about making a living, so it would be even more difficult.

“At that time, I thought it was difficult financially because I didn’t know where to find money to go because I was still a student. Time was not an issue because I didn’t have to work yet. The next difficulty was the registration period and the departure. It was easy to give up, you had to be very strong to go. There were three things that decided my trip: time, money and determination. And determination was the biggest thing,” Cuc said.

The time to register to participate in the cross-country trip was early April, but the time to leave was near the beginning of July. It took several months of struggling with her will before Cuc made the final decision. And then, Cuc started her journey from June 26, 2019 and the time to return to Ho Chi Minh City was mid-August of the same year.

The 50-day trip across Vietnam to explore the country with a distance of more than 3,000 km, with places Cuc set foot on for the first time such as Hue, Da Nang, Quang Binh, Quy Nhon, Ca Mau... The journey started from Hanoi and ended in Ca Mau with the participation of many young people from all regions of the country.

Throughout the journey, there were many memories for Cuc. Every day, Cuc conquered new provinces, enjoyed delicious food, and explored local culture. All fatigue was dispelled.

The most common difficulties encountered are falling behind the group, harsh weather, broken bicycles, exhaustion... Despite many difficulties on the way, Cuc always received help from all members of the group.

Perhaps the most unforgettable incident was the accident that occurred near Cua Lo beach where two members of the group were hospitalized and unconscious, and the vehicle was also severely damaged. After several days in Nghe An to monitor, the group continued their journey to conquer the next destination.

Regarding the cost of the trip, Cuc spent about 15 million VND. She often chooses to stay in a homestay to save money. Cuc also only rides about 100 km/day to ensure health and time to explore. In addition, cycling during the hottest time of the year, sun protection and covering up are essential things that need special attention.

To save time and money on the trip, Cuc and the group members made a clear plan of destination and departure date.

While still healthy and young, you must go.

“For each of us, opportunities often only come once in a lifetime. If you don’t have money, borrow, go and pay back. Go for the experience first, then have many trips for enjoyment,” Cuc confided.

From the beginning to the end of the cross-country cycling journey, Cuc was always aware of three things. First, once you cross Vietnam, you must go all the way, you cannot give up. Second, if everyone can do it, you can do it too. Third, there are always companions who are brothers and friends to encourage you. All of these are the motivation for her to go to the end of the journey.

Thinking back to that trip, Cuc had no regrets. Even though she was broke and had dark skin when she returned. But every time she recalled it, the memories of that day came flooding back, extremely happy and filled with memories, so that later she could remember that she had a passionate time.

More than 3,000 km with just a bicycle, conquering all the roads along the S-shaped road. The lands Cuc set foot on, met many new friends, experienced all levels of emotions are precious memories, solid luggage for future adventures.

“Youth can eat half a meal, sleep half a sleep, but cannot go half a journey and love with half a heart,” Cuc concluded.

Phuong Thao is the Editor of Travellive Magazine. She is passionate about traveling and loves to capture moments with her camera in every land she visits. Travel, art, and lifestyle are her favorite writing topics.

Phuong Thao