Vietnam is a very bicycle friendly country, probably because bikes are a major mode of transportation. Nice wide skirts along the highway with very little debris. We peddled south from Hue this morning toward Da Nang. Met our first hill - 496 meters over 11 kilometers. Two had to get on the bus before reaching the top and one crashed on the downhill (ran over her own water bottle which fell out of the bike rack). Fortunately, she was just ahead of my room mate who just graduated from medical school. "Doc Zak" is now the designated team doctor (!). Injuries were minor, just some scrapes and bruises.
We are now entering the area that I remember from 1969. Some of the scars of war still remain, including a portion of the old American airbase in Da Nang. There is no nostalgia, however, and all of the memories are drowned out by friendly people, beautiful country and kids waving and yelling "hallo" all along the route.At one point, an entire school yard of primary kids was waving! We are a pretty strange looking group with our white skin and large off-road, multigear bicycles and helmets.
Tonight we are in Hoi An, just south of Da Nang. We won't be leaving for the Central Highlands until Saturday.
We are now entering the area that I remember from 1969. Some of the scars of war still remain, including a portion of the old American airbase in Da Nang. There is no nostalgia, however, and all of the memories are drowned out by friendly people, beautiful country and kids waving and yelling "hallo" all along the route.At one point, an entire school yard of primary kids was waving! We are a pretty strange looking group with our white skin and large off-road, multigear bicycles and helmets.
Tonight we are in Hoi An, just south of Da Nang. We won't be leaving for the Central Highlands until Saturday.
4 comments:
Good Morning Joel,
Janie and I have been following your blog every day. Sounds like you are having a good time. Chalk up one for the old retired folks. I see you even inspired our oldest to get back on the bike. Hope you continue to have an enjoyable trip. We will keep you in our prayers.
Janie & Pat
Hey Joel! It's your sister, Nadean. I'm just catching up on your writings. Glad you are having a good trip. Just wanted you to know that I am thinking about you. I love you! Nadean
Joel,
It's great that you can enjoy Nam after having the bad experience in 69 and 70. enjoy all the lovely people and don't out run all the youngsterws on your bike!
Joel... you are an inspiration. The UPRR guys sent me the link to your blog, I'm getting a kick out of your stories. Have fun - Manny Montenegro
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