This trip was a great experience and the best cycling holiday we have been on to date. Our tour... Gill Fowkes, 2018 See more reviews
There will simply be not enough space to detail all the great experience we had on this trip.... Barry Ford, 2018 See more reviews
Great trip with lots to see apart from the cycling. Temples,monkeys etc ... Mark Gilbert , 2018 See more reviews
This was my first cycling trip and really enjoyed it. Great local food and some interesting... Jonathan Dusheiko, 2018 See more reviews
A great trip, supported by 3 very good teams. The riding was fairly easy - very flat with hardly... john dingley, 2018 See more reviews
Fantastic temples, fantastic food, relatively easy cycling. Wonderful people. ... Allistair Stark, 2018 See more reviews
This trip had it all, three amazing countries, good accommodation, wonderful food, excellent... Helen Hand, 2018 See more reviews
The trip was a retirement present to myself and in the months between booking and departing I had... Rob Kemmer, 2018 See more reviews
I booked this trip after doing the Vietnam cycling trip in February. I had really enjoyed that... Anthony Lorbach, 2017 See more reviews
Like cycling Kerala & the a Tropical South (which I can totally recommend) this was another... Vicki Nunn, 2017 See more reviews
Itinerary Expand all Bangkok to Saigon Day 1 Start Bangkok There will be a group meeting and briefing in the evening with you leader followed by an optional group dinner for those that would like to join. Your main luggage will be transported ahead of you to the start point early in the morning so please bring this with you to the meeting; just hang on to what you need for the night/morning - you will be with your luggage again mid-morning tomorrow.Rembrandt Bangkok Hotel or similar Day 2 Early transfer to the old kingdom of Ayuttaya; warm-up ride on trail An early start this morning as we venture out of Bangkok to the ancient town of Ayuttaya. Our two-hour transfer takes us into the heart of this fascinating site and we start cycling by the huge reclining Buddha. Much of the old town was destroyed by the Burmese in the 18th Century and we will cycle through the remaining shrine towers and enormous temples to appreciate the past magnificence. We will finish today’s warm-up ride at Aranyik village, famed for traditional knife making, and will pause to learn a little about this age-old tradition that has been passed through generations. Ingtharn Resort or similar Meals included: Breakfast Day 3 Cycle to Sa Keaw Today we follow minor roads through rural Thai landscapes including rubber and eucalyptus plantations as well as tapioca and rice fields. There are a few easy rolling hills but the route is mostly flat.The ride ends when we join a busier road before driving the final short distance to the town of Sa Keaw by bus. River Resort or similar Meals included: Breakfast Day 4 Ride to Aranyaprathet Leaving our hotel early in the morning we ride towards Tha Krabak where we can stop by a reservoir for a swim and a view of the untouched jungle on the other side. We will break for lunch before carrying on cycling on quiet but well-maintained scenic roads on the way to Aranyaprathet, 10km from the Cambodian border. Station One Resort or similar Meals included: Breakfast Day 5 Into Cambodia and on to Siem Reap After breakfast we drive to the busy border and complete customs formalities as we cross into Cambodia at Poipet. We then drive to Siem Reap. Due to years of civil war the country is poorer and less developed than its neighbours. Apart from growth in the capital and around Siem Reap, the way of life in the countryside is still very much the same as it has been for centuries. This afternoon's ride from Siem Reap takes us past Wat Athvea, a modern temple in the grounds of the ruins of an Angkorian temple, and ends at a market and picnic area outside of Siem Reap. Angkor Holiday or similar Meals included: Breakfast Day 6 First of two full days to explore the temple complex of Angkor by bus and bike, including Angkor Wat, Angkor Thom, the Bayon and Banteay Srei Today we may choose to have an early start to avoid the inevitable crowds drawn to the wonders of Angkor. The various temples are spread over a wide area and are linked by shady avenues; meandering our way between them by bike gives us a unique perspective. Our cycle tour will include the jungle-covered Ta Prohm, with the amazing roots of the Fromagier trees clinging to the ancient stones, Angkor Thom with the famous Bayon temple of 37 towers (originally there were 49) topped with the four faces of the king, and of course the incredible Angkor Wat, with its huge moat, long causeway and massive towers - it is the largest temple complex in Asia. Angkor Holiday or similar Meals included: Breakfast Day 7 Second day at Angkor temple complex Today we cycle outside the main Angkor complex to the outlying temple of Banteay Srei, 35km from Siem Reap town. Our route takes us past paddy fields, and through pretty villages. Banteay Srei was built in the 10th Century and contains some of the finest examples of Khmer sculpture. Although much smaller than the later temples, here all of the buildings are covered in exquisite carvings. In the afternoon as we cycle back to Siem Reap we can stop and visit a few of the less visited Angkor temples. Siem Reap town is pleasant to wander around; the market has plenty of interest and excellent shopping and there is a vibrant nightlife scene. This afternoon there should also be time to visit the Tonle Sap Lake, which is a branch of the Mekong River. This optional trip includes a boat ride to see the floating fishing villages. Anyone wanting to do this visit may need to miss part or all of the ride back to Siem Reap, depending on timings. Cycle approx. 70 km. if riding the full distance to and from Banteay Srei.Angkor Holiday or similar Meals included: Breakfast Day 8 Drive to Phnom Penh, stopping at Sambor Pre Kuk and Skuon Today we take a bus journey of approximately 7 hours along National Road 6 to Phnom Penh, with a couple of stops along the way. We visit Sambor Prei Kuk, Cambodia's most impressive group of pre-Angkorian monuments with some of the oldest structures in the country. We'll also pause for a traditional Khmer lunch at a community restaurant before stopping in the town Skuon, which is known for its local delicacy of fried spiders. The road is currently undergoing some resurfacing so some sections will be a bit of a bumpy ride! We should arrive in Phnom Penh for late afternoon, the perfect time for a sundowner on the Mekong.Ohana Hotel or similar Meals included: Breakfast Lunch Day 9 Sightseeing including Royal Palace, Silver Pagoda and Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum and the 'Killing Fields' The fortunes of Phnom Penh have shifted dramatically during its history and the terrible years of the Khmer Rouge and subsequent civil war through the 1970s and 1980s have scarred the country. During our stay we visit two sites which give us a vivid impression of some of the horrors. There is the Genocide Museum, which is the former Khmer Rouge prison known as S-21 or Tuol Sleng, in the centre of the city. And 15kms of out of town is the area known as the 'Killing Fields,' a mass grave and execution site for the former inmates of S-21. While visiting Tuol Sleng and the Killing Fields may not appeal to everyone, we feel they give us an important understanding of what the country and its people had to endure just a few decades ago. On a more positive note, the city is very much on the rise again and is a fascinating place with fine examples of French colonial architecture. We tour the Royal Palace with its Silver Pagoda. There is also excellent shopping at the 'Russian' market, and the lively Mekong waterfront area.Ohana Hotel or similar Meals included: Breakfast Day 10 Transfer to Takeo then cycle to Vietnam border and Chau Doc This morning we transfer south out of Phnom Penh to the town of Takeo. Here the road becomes quieter and we mount our bikes for the 50km ride to the Phnom Den / Tinh Bien border. Once border formalities have been completed, we cycle approximately 30km to Chau Doc. Chau Pho hotel or similar Meals included: Breakfast Day 11 Drive/cycle through the Mekong Delta to Vinh Long; catch boat to homestay guesthouse A morning transfer by road to Long Xuyen where we take a public ferry across the river. From here we ride along a lovely quiet backroad, lined with small villages and dwellings, towards Vinh Long. Leaving the bikes on the mainland, we take another boat (20 minutes) to reach our homestay guesthouse on an island in the Mekong Delta, known as the 'rice bowl' of Vietnam. After settling in we can explore the area on foot. The rivers and canals of the Mekong Delta form an amazing network of waterways. The area is famous for its abundant rice production but in many areas farmers are now moving to more profitable fish-farming and fruit and vegetable growing. The evening is tranquil as we have dinner at the homestay and enjoy some 'Delta' hospitality. We spend the night sleeping at a simple guesthouse built in the style of a local house. Bedding, a mosquito net and a small towel are provided. Homestay Guesthouse Mekong Delta Meals included: Breakfast Dinner Day 12 Transfer to Cai Be for floating market; scenic cycle along Mekong riverbank; transfer to Saigon We leave by boat, stopping en route for a look at the Cai Be floating market. Here large boats moor up in the Mekong River, weighed down with fruit and vegetable produce. Local traders and shop owners buy in bulk in this strictly 'wholesale' market. Recently, Cai Be floating market is becoming less crowded and smaller as fruit trading is mostly now done by trucks due to the bridge being built. However, this is still a great opportunity to see a local market and trade being conducted traditionally on a smaller scale. A little further on we make a short stop to see cottage industries producing such items as popped rice, pancakes, wine and other homemade products. We start our ride towards Cai Lay where we take a scenic route through fruit orchards and along the Mekong riverbank. Back on the bus in My Tho, we drive on to the heat, hustle and bustle of Ho Chi Minh City, still usually known as Saigon. This is an exciting and absorbing city where scooters pack the streets and temples stand defiantly alongside modern developments. Devastated by the Vietnam War, it is now a free market city where anything goes. Huong Sen hotel or similar Meals included: Breakfast Day 13 Free day in Saigon The whole day is free to explore Saigon, do some shopping and to relax. There are a number of interesting things to see - the Saigon River, Ben Thanh Market, Reunification Palace and Notre Dame Cathedral are all within easy walking distance. Alternatively a short cyclo (cycle taxi) ride will take you to the War Remnants Museum with an interesting (if a little gruesome) photographic record of the Vietnam/American War. For those that are interested your leader can arrange an optional visit to the Cu Chi Tunnels, located 2 hours outside the city. Used by the Viet Cong during the war, the network covers 3 levels and approximately 240km of tunnels. Originally these were very narrow but some areas have been widened to allow tourists to explore the system. Claustrophobes may prefer to stay outside in the sunshine!Huong Sen hotel or similar Meals included: Breakfast Day 14 End Saigon The trip ends this morning after breakfast in Saigon. Meals included: Breakfast
Thailand A visa for Thailand is not required for British nationals for stays of 30 days or less. If you are unsure of the requirements please check with your nearest Thai embassy.
Cambodia Arriving By Flight: An electronic visa (e-Visa) facility is available via the Ministry of Foreign Affairs & International Co-operation website at the cost of $37. A tourist visa can be obtained on arrival for British nationals at most border crossings. Two passport photos are required. The cost is US$30, although an additional express fee of US$5-6 may be incurred at the border. For further information see the FCO site and check under Cambodia / 'Entry Requirements'. Arriving Overland: A tourist visa can be obtained on arrival for British nationals at most border crossings. Two passport photos are required. The cost is US$30, although an additional express fee of US$5-6 may be incurred at the border. For further information see the FCO site and check under Cambodia / 'Entry Requirements'. Important advice regarding E-Visas Please be advised, e-Visas are not accepted at all border check points when travelling overland. This applies to the following borders/trips: Tinh Bien, Vietnam/ Phnom Den, Takeo, Cambodia border: AOX- Thai Indochina Explorer and AOG- Thai Indochina Grand Tour Xa Xia, Vietnam/ Prek Chak, Cambodia (Ha Tien crossing): FIJ- South East Asia Adventure You can only purchase a tourist visa on arrival at these borders as e-Visas will not be accepted. More information can be found at: https://www.evisa.gov.kh/ https://www.evisa.gov.kh/information/port_entry/3
Vietnam A visa is no longer needed for British, German, French, Spanish and Italian citizens travelling to Vietnam (for all purposes) for a period of up to 15 days, and on the basis of meeting all conditions prescribed by Vietnamese laws. The visa exemption period will end on 30 June 2021. All other nationalities require a visa to enter Vietnam and this must be obtained prior to departure. For further information see http://www.exodus.co.uk/assets/travelink/Vietnam.pdf or the FCO site and check under Vietnam / 'Entry Requirements'.
Thailand There are no mandatory vaccination requirements. Recommended vaccinations are: Polio, Tetanus, Diphtheria, Typhoid, Hepatitis A. The risk of malaria is slight but you may wish to consult your GP or travel health clinic for further advice. Dengue fever is a known risk in places visited. It is a tropical viral disease spread by daytime biting mosquitoes. There is currently no vaccine or prophylaxis available for Dengue, and therefore the best form of prevention is to avoid being bitten. We recommend you take the usual precautions to avoid mosquito bites. Zika fever is a mosquito‐borne viral disease and a known risk in places visited on this trip. There is currently no vaccine or prophylaxis available, we therefore strongly recommend you take the usual precautions to avoid mosquito bites.
Cambodia There are no mandatory vaccination requirements. Recommended vaccinations are: Polio, Tetanus, Diphtheria, Typhoid, Hepatitis A. The risk of malaria is slight but you may wish to consult your GP or travel health clinic for further advice. Dengue fever is a known risk in places visited. It is a tropical viral disease spread by daytime biting mosquitoes. There is currently no vaccine or prophylaxis available for Dengue, and therefore the best form of prevention is to avoid being bitten. We recommend you take the usual precautions to avoid mosquito bites.
Vietnam There are no mandatory vaccination requirements. Recommended vaccinations are: Tetanus, Polio, Typhoid, Hepatitis A and Diphtheria. The risk of malaria is slight, but you may wish to consult your GP or travel health clinic for further advice. Dengue fever is a known risk in places visited. It is a tropical viral disease spread by daytime biting mosquitoes. There is currently no vaccine or prophylaxis available for Dengue, and therefore the best form of prevention is to avoid being bitten. We recommend you take the usual precautions to avoid mosquito bites. Zika fever is a mosquito‐borne viral disease and a known risk in places visited on this trip. There is currently no vaccine or prophylaxis available, we therefore strongly recommend you take the usual precautions to avoid mosquito bites.
Hotels & Guesthouse You will spend 12 nights in hotels (all rooms en suite) and 1 night in a standard homestay guesthouse to experience some 'Mekong Delta' hospitality. En suite facilities are not available on the night at the homestay guesthouse in the Mekong Delta. Please note that double beds are not always widely available in South East Asia. Please be advised that the accommodation listed in each location on the day to day itinerary are the standard hotels used. However, there may be some departures where groups stay at similar hotels of the same standard and quality. Premium DeparturesOur premium departures either stay in the same hotels we usually use on our standard trips but in upgraded rooms with balconies or larger rooms, as some examples of the main differences. Some of the hotels have been upgraded and changed entirely. We will still stay in the standard guesthouse in the Mekong Delta on premium trips, despite this not being premium accommodation, as this is regarded as a highlight by many people. Single SupplementsSingle rooms are available for a supplement (on request) for hotel nights only (12 nights). Please advise the sales team at the time of booking if you would like to request a single supplement. Extra AccommodationIs available in Bangkok and Saigon before and after your trip please ask your sales consultant if you wish to book extra nights. Due to high demand for rooms there is a chance it may be in a different hotel to the end hotel of your trip. Safety in Phnom PenhIt is important to exercise caution in Phnom Penh after dark. Taking into account the following recommendations, as well as the advice of your leader will help to ensure that you have a safe and enjoyable trip. Always leave valuables and important documents secured in the safe in your hotel, carrying only the money you need for one day and a copy of your passport with you. Do not make yourself a target for pickpockets by keeping cameras and jewellery on display. After dark avoid walking in the streets alone. If staying in a bar or restaurant until late, ask them to call you a taxi rather than walking back to the hotel; transport in Phnom Penh is inexpensive.
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Reviewed August 2018 Gill Fowkes Trip: Cycle Indochina & Angkor Excellent trip and experience with a brilliant tour leader - Nuts This trip was a great experience and the best cycling holiday we have been on to date. Our tour leader Nut was outstanding, he could not have done more to ensure everyone on the trip had a great holiday, we could not rate him more highly. The trip itself was well thought out and we covered so much in just a few weeks. The highlights included: Cycling in Vietnam, particulalry down the muddy tracks! the homestay in the Mekong Delta, the Killing Fields and the variety of food in each country. I would recommend this trip. What was the most inspirational moment of your trip? The friendliness of all the people, the greetings from the local children and seeing Ankor Wat. What did you think of your group leader? Nut was an outstanding tour leader, he thought of everything, he gave attention and checked on all group members and worked really hard to ensure that everyone had a great holiday. Looking after a group of 16 with a variety of needs and abilities is no mean feat and he handled it brilliantly, we could not fault him and he had a really positive impact on the enjoyment of our trip. Do you have any advice for potential travellers? Book this trip it is a really good mix of cycling and sightseeing. Read all the info sent by Exodus and you will be well prepared.
Reviewed July 2018 Barry Ford Trip: Cycle Indochina & Angkor Outstanding adventure There will simply be not enough space to detail all the great experience we had on this trip. Firstly our guide Nut, was outstanding and he ensured we that we covered off of everything that was available to us. Sights, sounds, experiences, feelings, emotions, tastes and the list goes on! Apart from a positive sweeping endorsement about this trip, below are a handful of highlights as felt by us. 1. Nuts food recommendations. 2. The Killing Fields in Cambodia. 3. Saigon. 4. The Thai/Cambodia crossing. 5. The greetings by all the children in Vietnam. 6. All the sights available to you whilst riding a bike. 7. The amazing support staff. 8. Majestic temples. 9. The accommodation in Phnom Penh. We highly recommend this trip to anyone who would like a unique adventure through Thailand/Cambodia and Vietnam. If you are not a bike rider thou, best you do some preparation. What was the most inspirational moment of your trip? Venturing through the Temples and understanding their existence and history. What did you think of your group leader? Outstanding, we cannot speak more highly of Nut and the job he did. We thank him for making our trip what it was. My partner Kym is vegetarian (no seafood) and Nut ensured she was catered for and in fact opened up many options that she had never tried or thought about. Thank you Nut. Do you have any advice for potential travellers? pay your money and go!!!! Just do a bit of bike training. Is there anything else you would like to add? No we just cannot wait to do the Hanoi to Saigon ride.
Reviewed June 2018 Mark Gilbert Trip: Cycle Indochina & Angkor Cycle Great trip with lots to see apart from the cycling. Temples,monkeys etc Great guide and team. Would recommend this trip 👌🏻 What was the most inspirational moment of your trip? Angkor temple. What did you think of your group leader? Probably the best guide I’ve had (rit) and I’ve been on a few trips now.
Reviewed March 2018 Jonathan Dusheiko Trip: Cycle Indochina & Angkor Cycling in Indochina This was my first cycling trip and really enjoyed it. Great local food and some interesting sightseeing on the trip as well. What was the most inspirational moment of your trip? Seeing Angkor Wat for the first time as we cycled around the various temples. What did you think of your group leader? Nut was excellent, very easy-going attitude which made us all relax. Do you have any advice for potential travellers? I took a Fabric air-cushioned saddle which was comfortable although still needed padded boxers for the longer 90km days. It is really hot and humid, Buff head band (they do one specifically for cycling) stopped sweat going in my eyes. The Requiem exhibition of photographs by photographers who were killed during the wars in Indochina on the top floor of the War Remnants Museum in Saigon is unmissable. BBQ garden is a nice outdoor restaurant in Saigon near the Independence Palace. Is there anything else you would like to add? I noticed in Vietnam we were using disposable plastic cups for lime juice breaks when should be reusable as per in Thailand.
Reviewed March 2018 john dingley Trip: Cycle Indochina & Angkor South East Asia in 14 days ! A great trip, supported by 3 very good teams. The riding was fairly easy - very flat with hardly an incline - , with a great bunch of fellow riders. I dont think we saw the best of Thailand, and it felt like we were out of the country as soon as we started. Temples and Pagodas was the theme of most of the trip, and they didn't dissapoint. We saw monkeys and elephants - too breifly. A lot of people on our trip were more interested in the wildlife, a bit of a shame that more wasnt made of that. Cambodia stole our hearts ! The people were so freindly, the surroundings straight out of "national geographic" pages. A country with such a sad history, but certainly worth a visit on it's own. What was the most inspirational moment of your trip? The boarder crossing from Thailand to Cambodia was an experience not to be missed - but the highlight of the 2 weeks had to be the temples in Siem Reap. Not only Angkor Wat, but so many other stunning temples to see. What did you think of your group leader? It was difficult to gel with the team - having 3 teams and 3 bikes in such a short period of time. Because of that, the team leader wasn't as "prominent" as other trips because - in his own words - he was the general manager rather than the tour guide. However, Chai looked after us very well and allowed us to build up a bit of steam on longer sections. Do you have any advice for potential travellers? In Seam Reap, head straight for Pub Street - a very lively atmosphere, not to be missed ! The 5am start to Angkor Wat to see the sunrise, was very much an anticlimax for the views, but worth doing just for the atmospehere of 3000 people at stupid-o-clock all racing there by tuk-tuk. When in Phnom Penh, take an evening river cruise - 2 hours up and down the waterways which was very cheap. Is there anything else you would like to add? The long, long coach trip from Siem Reap to Phnom Penh was mind numbingly tedoius and was a wasted day. You can fly between the 2 cities for $20, i cant understand why that wasnt an option, you might want to consider it. More should have been made of the "elephant farm" or whatever is was that we passed in Thailand.
Reviewed March 2018 Allistair Stark Trip: Cycle Indochina & Angkor A great mix of temples, scenery and cycling Fantastic temples, fantastic food, relatively easy cycling. Wonderful people. You don't need to be a regular cyclist to do this tour - if you follow the Exodus guide on getting cycling fit, you will have no problem. Bus support was excellent, for anyone that got sick, or just didn't fancy a particular cycle etc. The mix of visiting iconic sites like Angkor Wat/ Angkor Thom etc was just right for us. The cycling is nearly flat all the way from Thailand to the Mekong, and the expected/required cycling pace was relaxed. The only issue is heat; the temperature even in 'winter' was low to mid 30 celsius; regular water stops are provided, and acclimatisation helps. The hotels were either excellent - particularly the choices at Start/Finish in Bangkok and Saigon, and also in Siem Reap, Phnom Penh, and Chau Doc, or otherwise pretty good elsewhere. Almost everywhere had air conditioning, and where not, fans. What was the most inspirational moment of your trip? The greetings and general friendliness of all local people; particularly children. Quite amazing. What did you think of your group leader? Our group leader was Chaiya Jaisodsai or Chai, who was just great. He made everything so easy for us, and kept everything running smoothly. He introduced himself to us as our General Manager, there to do anything he could to make things easier for us. His favourite phrase was 'No problem', no matter what the issue was, and it really didn't seem to be, even when he was attempting to 'herd cats' ie our group! Exodus has a policy of local guides in each of the countries; Chai being Thai, did the Thailand bit, but we had separate local guides at Siem Reap, Phnom Penh, and in Vietnam. The bike teams also change (as do the bikes) at the borders, but Chai stayed with us throughout, so crossing the borders was a breeze with him in control, not to mention him completing almost all of the paperwork for all eighteen of us the nights before! Amongst the other things he organised for us he also got us to eat street foods, which we may not have done without him , such as stuffed frog, tarantulas, crickets etc. Overall we cannot thank him enough. Do you have any advice for potential travellers? Cycling: If you are not a regular cyclist, do cycle before going to get saddle fit. (We are not cyclists, and in our early sixties, but did some cycling for three months leading up to going; the Exodus guide provides good advice, though we didn't rigorously follow it) Do take your own cycle/pedals if you have them. Changing them is no problem at all for the cycle team. Do wear padded cycle shorts, and do follow the advice on wearing nothing under them, it just adds to friction. (I was sceptical of this, but am now a convert) Clothes are very easily washed and dried overnight in almost all rooms. The group leader can easily arrange full laundry which is very cheap, but generally only where you are staying more than one night (Siem Reap/Phnom Penh) Consider using or taking Sudocrem or other moisturiser/antiseptic to prevent or treat chafe. The bikes are mountain bikes with disc brakes, so if you take a front pannier, remember that the handlebars are quite thick and your attachments may well not fit. Ours didn't and we were not the only ones! Some in the group had bought relatively cheap velcro fitting ones from Decathlon, which had long velcro straps and fitted well. You will want some way of carrying your camera, phone, and those of us that carried a small rucksack got very sweaty backs. All the bikes have water bottle holders. Water stops are numerous, electrolyte powders were provided, along with a huge amount of snacks with every water stop. We didn't bring our own energy bars etc, and there was absolutely no need to. Cities: If you want to see Bangkok, consider adding extra days at the beginning, this will also allow acclimatisation to the heat. Similarly, consider added a night or two at the end if you want to see Saigon, otherwise there is really very little time to see either. Insects: Malaria is not a problem on this route, but other mosquito borne illnesses like Dengue are, so bite avoidance is important, you will need DEET! If going again we would also buy a knockdown fly spray, as not all the rooms in the hotels were mosquito free, and also to spray under the mosquito net in the homestay on the Mekong (plenty of mosquitoes there!). We would also take a plug in type mosquito coil with tablets for the same reasons. Is there anything else you would like to add? The only other comment, is really for Exodus. The bus journey from Siem Reap to Phnom Penh is about 6 - 7 hours, and is unavoidable. It was broken for us by lunch at an ancient temple site which we were shown round (apparently a new feature of this years tour), which was great and in our opinion fully worthwhile even though it added some time to the journey time, and by a coffee stop and to taste tarantulas at Skuon, all good fun. But..... the bus we had for this part of the journey was far too small and uncomfortable for this length of trip. We know this sounds like a first world complaint, but the minibuses in Thailand were comfortable, and the bus used for short trips around Phnom Penh was huge and comfortable, so why the small cramped bus (with some bags having to be stored in the cabin) for the longest journey we did?
Reviewed February 2018 Helen Hand Trip: Cycle Indochina & Angkor Wonderful,..but no hairdryer! This trip had it all, three amazing countries, good accommodation, wonderful food, excellent company and the most personable, knowledgable, competent guides. We crossed two borders, changed bikes and teams and had one unfortunate incident but all was dealt with professionally and seamlessly. Nut, Mr Tao, Kong, Linn and all those whose names I have forgotten, or cannot spell, were so lovely, they managed to stay cheerful, introduced us to some fantastic eating places, kept us all fed watered and entertained throughout. I think Nut’s guitar playing had the edge over Linn’s singing but both were memorable. All three counteries have so much history, it was truly fascinating and left us wishing we had longer to explore. We learnt so much about rice growing, tapioca, rubber, palm sugar, knife making, spring roll making and the effects of snake wine (don’t try it wearing Lycra Rob). I also learnt how to survive two nights without a hairdryer, helmet head is not a pretty sight! Based on this whistle stop experience we shall certainly return, the cycle Vietnam trip is calling! A big thank you to everyone from Exodus, and to the other wonderful people on the trip for making the whole experience so memorable. What was the most inspirational moment of your trip? The killing fields. How did the world allow that to happen. Cycling through the little villages in Vietnam was just beautiful. What did you think of your group leader? Amazing. Do you have any advice for potential travellers? Just throw yourself into it and make the most of every moment. Is there anything else you would like to add? Nope
Reviewed February 2018 Rob Kemmer Trip: Cycle Indochina & Angkor Cycling Indochina & Angkor The trip was a retirement present to myself and in the months between booking and departing I had intended to get many miles under my (too large) belt. When the time came to leave I was more than a little anxious as I hadn't exactly hit my training targets, had never done this kind of holiday before and was travelling alone. From the moment I first stepped on to the bike I knew that my fears were unfounded, The trip was among the best holidays I have ever taken. The cycling was wonderful, the scenery and ancient sites beautiful, the staff, support, equipment and organisation exemplary and the food delicious and cheap. The accommodation ranged from very good to more modest hotels but all were clean and had en suite facilities. I had paid a single room supplement and was a litle disappointed to be sharing (for one night only) in the delighful "homestay" but this was a very minor inconvenience. The group was large and diverse but here was huge companionship, support and banter between us and the staff ensured that both stronger cyclists and less experienced had plenty of fun and challenge. It was brilliant to experience three different countries and cultures. In each the local tour guides gave interesting and educational background to visits. This part of the world has had more than its share of troubles and it was brilliant to see how each country is responding and developing. Throughout, the local people were welcoming and friendly - in Vietnam, for example, we were greeted by high-fiving children and shouts of "hello" at every village. The days ranged from some long rides in the sun to occasional bus transfers and shorter excursions but all were punctuated by the excellent snack van providing lovely refreshments and fresh water at very regular intervals. In summary I loved it, was sad when it finished and am already browsing the web for the next adventure. What was the most inspirational moment of your trip? Angkor Wat was simply stunning and the visit to the Killing Fields and prison in Cambodia deeply moving . However for me the high point was more banal. When I was speeding into the lakeside lunch stop after about 45K on day 3, I was on the wheel of the day's cycling leader who turned to me and simply said "strong" and I got such an ego boost. The upshot was that half way through the afternoon I blew up and finished the day near the end of the finishers...but hey it was worth it! What did you think of your group leader? Nut was a brilliant tour leader. He was professional, friendly and fun, briefing us well before each day/stage, resolving any problems, taking us to some great restaurants and he also plays a mean guitar. Do you have any advice for potential travellers? The trip notes reccommended bringing faourite snacks, gels, fist aid kit etc. None of this was necessary as we were well provided throughout and they took up valuable space in my luggage that I would more usefully have filled with more cycling jerseys, given the heat and humidity on the road. Make sure you have plenty of space on your camera/phone. There was so much to see. Is there anything else you would like to add? I was posting pictures and short narratives on social media whilst away and these got more "Likes" than anything I have ever posted... says it ll.
Reviewed December 2017 Anthony Lorbach Trip: Cycle Indochina & Angkor Indochina is fantastic I booked this trip after doing the Vietnam cycling trip in February. I had really enjoyed that one and suddenly found myself with time off before Christmas, and with the threat of a cold Canadian winter looming, I decided to get some sun while I could. For a Canadian the logistics of this trip required getting the Vietnam visa ahead of time (Thailand didn't need one and Cambodia offered the ability to get one ahead or at the border). Luckily, having been there recently, my Visa came back quickly. The cost was prohibitive for the few days I would be there, but I enjoyed the country so much last time that I couldn't resist. Our guide was professional and knowledgeable. We also had local guides for Cambodia and Vietnam to augment his knowledge. The organization was top notch and things went smoothly, despite having to cross two land borders and meet up with bus drivers and local mechanics, trucks, and bikes. Everything was waiting and prepared for us. I needed pedals installed, but that was taken care of very quickly (three times) and efficiently. Three countries provided lots of different scenery, different food, and slightly different riding conditions. I saw rolling countryside, lots of livestock, rivers, rice paddies, lakes, vegetation....I am biased, but I liked Vietnam the most. The sights built into the tour were awesome and important. I am glad I went and I do not regret it for an instant. The accommodations on the Vietnam only trip were better than the ones on this trip, but there is nothing to complain about on this trip. Rooms were clean and air conditioned. Our group was small so that allowed for a bit more customization to meet our needs that might not have been possible with a bigger group. I appreciated that our guide worked with us. If you want to read more about my trip, I blogged about it almost every day (December 2 onward). Here is a link to the blog. If you have trouble finding it through the dates, look under the My Travels heading. https://todaysperfectmoment.wordpress.com/ I will definitely do another cycling holiday (when finances allow) though I am not sure where. When I got home, the new catalogue was waiting in my mailbox. What was the most inspirational moment of your trip? Seeing Angkor Wat was amazing. Eating delicious street food for pennies was pretty awesome too. Sitting in the Foreign Correspondents Club in Phnom Penn, drinking a cocktail while overlooking the waterfront was brilliant. Cycling over the new Dam in Thailand was fantastic. What did you think of your group leader? My group leader was knowledgeable about the locations, terrain, history and took time to answer any questions we had. He was a good cyclist, and took care of the group. Because our group was so small, we had more options than a bigger group would have had. Do you have any advice for potential travellers? Pack light. There are several opportunities to do laundry for a low price in each country. The food is amazing--and the beer tastes pretty good too. There is quite a bit of cycling packed into the first few days, so be prepared. There are not too many hills on this trip so you needn't worry about your ability. Is there anything else you would like to add? You will not regret taking this trip.
Reviewed November 2017 Vicki Nunn Trip: Cycle Indochina & Angkor Cycling, food, temples, boats, villages, history, villages and cities - a great and varied fortnight!! Like cycling Kerala & the a Tropical South (which I can totally recommend) this was another wonderfully varied trip. Loved the fact that there were many cultural, religious, historical and culinary experiences intermingled with cycling in a great part of the world. The cycling in Thailand was not as scenic as we'd hoped but the food and stops to see temples, rubber plantations, etc. made the long cycling days more interesting. We changed bikes 3 times (different bikes and back up teams in each country) which was not ideal but crossing the busy border between Thailand and Cambodia was a highlight for us (like India without the saris!). It was very hot and humid and some of the fairer people were sunburnt on the cloudy days! What was the most inspirational moment of your trip? No one thing! The variety of experiences was the best thing about the trip. What did you think of your group leader? Nut was great - he looked after us all very well. Do you have any advice for potential travellers? Pad your saddle (take your own if comfy) and not yourself - padded cycling shorts were very unpleasant (they just became tight, sweaty/wet and hot). We ended up cycling in loose thin white t-shirts with loose thin shorts and walking sandals and found that to be most comfortable. You are on a holiday cycling through rural villages after all and not in the Tour de France!!). Despite the trip notes advice most of our group avoided taking anti-malarials and just used repellant (Incognito worked well and avoided nasty DEET products) and many didn't cover up but only one or two bites across the 18 of us were had! As always, an extra day or two at the end of the trip to just decompress and reflect on all you have seen and done is a good call - cocktails and reminiscence by the pool on our first full day in Saigon was a real highlight! And the Water Puppet show in Saigon is a must - bizarre but totally mesmerising!! Is there anything else you would like to add? If you don't like cycling with your bottom in the air, a handlebar extender may be worth taking as in Thailand and Cambodia the bikes had wide and low handlebars which several of us found uncomfortable.
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