Cycle IndoChina and Angkor

This was our third cycling trip with Exodus. It was an amazing journey and adventure and we loved every single moment of it. It was a fantastic way to see some ‘highlights’ of three beautiful countries.
What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?
Without a doubt Cambodia - it's such a beautiful country; cycling through villages in Cambodia and Vietnam; the wonderful night in the homestay; the food and the border crossings!
What did you think of your group leader?
Nut - what we can we say, he is an absolute star and gave us such a wonderful holiday from start to finish. We have been really lucky to have had fantastic group leaders in our previous trips but Nut just stands out there. He has a wonderful sense of humour, makes you feel incredibly safe and well looked after, has such patience when he has to tell you for the third time as you are so tired when and where we are meeting for dinner or the morning, his knowledge is incredible. He’s amazing!!!
Do you have any advice for potential travellers?
The heat - this has been said in previous reviews about the heat and this cannot be underestimated. We went early March and the cycling in Thailand was tough due to the heat. Nut was brilliant and shortened the distances between refreshment stops due to this but it is hard going. Don’t however let this put you off, the cycling is relatively flat apart from a few rolling hills, take padded shorts, there are plenty of opportunities for washing so pack light. Insect repellent is also a must. Be also prepared for long days - it’s a tiring trip but definitely worth it.
Is there anything else you would like to add?
This was a wonderful cycling holiday - we were a group of 5 and became a “cycling family” very quickly even spending our free evenings together. We laughed our way round and supported each other through three different countries. We can not recommend this trip enough.

The trip was great from beginning to end, the cycling was great, the guides were knowledgeable, the support crew looked after us, the other adventurers were class acts and it was an amazing way to see Thailand, Cambodia and Vietnam.
What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?
Seeing the children of Cambodia cycling to school was amazing, in a country that has suffered so much this was heartwarming to see. Cycling through the rural Vietnam and seeing village life was a privilege and put the rest of the country into context.
What did you think of your group leader?
Seen was outstanding, his knowledge, helpfulness, caring attitude and sense of humour got us all through.
Do you have any advice for potential travellers?
Get some sun sleeves, they’re like arm warmers but just keep the sun and uv off during the heat of the day, they’re like £6 on Amazon. Drink plenty of fluid, there’s always some on offer, don’t take clip on pedals you don’t need them. (IMO) take something to clean your water bottle and do this every night. Enjoy the company of your fellow travellers and don’t pack to much on our trip the lightest packer packed 6kg and the heaviest around 30kg. I came in at 12 and took way too much stuff.
Is there anything else you would like to add?
I was nervous about booking this trip, but it was the best decision I’ve made in a year, there was no reason to worry. I did no prep and had a fantastic time.

The trip took us through some rural scenery in the Far East. It was a treat to see the real country as well as the big cities. I was pleasantly surprised by the level of back up from the support team. They seemed to have thought of everything.
What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?
It had been a bucket list thing for me to visit Angkor Wat. It was a serene moment when we first set eyes on the temples and even more so when a buddhist monk blessed our cycling team.
What did you think of your group leader?
Our group leader Seen was outstanding. His professionalism, helpful nature and positive attitude was inspirational. Does this man ever have a bad day?!? He handled the situations presented by our group with discretion and efficiency. I give him top marks.
Do you have any advice for potential travellers?
My best advice is to pack only the basics. The bikes are suited to normal street shoes/trainers and there’s only a need for one water bottle on the bike as there are plenty of refreshment stops along the way from our snacks kitty. They even supplied electrolyte powder for the water. I took a tumble in Vietnam and destroyed my crash helmet in the process. Thankfully, my skull survived.
Is there anything else you would like to add?
I’m glad that the Exodus philosophy to responsible travel extends to home stays and stopping for lunch with local families. It’s great to support these communities with our custom. As a bonus, the food was delicious and authentic. I hope that you enjoy the experience as much as I did.

Great opportunity to see 3 countries! Great leader!
What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?
While sad it was wonderful to bear witness to the relatively recent history of both Cambodia and VIetnam and also great to see the lovely welcome we got!
What did you think of your group leader?
I returned from Sri Lanka in October and thought the legendary Suresh was thee best Guide ever, Where to start with Is!! She was just fabulous! She looked after us so we’ll and was always one step ahead in organising everything. At the border crossings she brought pens for filling out the forms and even spelled out the names of the hotels that we had to put on the forms. She stopped the traffic with a firm hand which made us feel very safe but she was always very gracious in her acknowledgment of those that stopped! Her Tinglish (English) was excellent and she was never off duty. She never stopped and was unfailing courteous at all times! The support team in the three countries were great too.
Do you have any advice for potential travellers?
Be prepared for the heat! The cycling was very doable but oh soooo hot!

As a second time traveller to this area I had seen many of the sites by coach. Cycling is so much better allowing time to absorb the many natural wonders and culture with the wind through your hair. Our tour leader, nick name IS, a fully committed Thai lady, gave 110% to everything for the group, including the 2 boarder crossings that looked like something from a James Bond film!
What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?
Having seen many of the natural wonders previously, and an appreciation of the countries history, for me the stay over in the Mekong delta Homestay was my highlight. This was tailored for our group only and included a ferry transfer, evening cooking lesson and traditional entertainment with musicians and dancers; an evening of great memories.
What did you think of your group leader?
Our group leader ,”IS”. Was inspirational. As said, she gave 110% commitment to the group ensuring everything was in place, put in place or corrected where found wanting. I can’t sing her praises enough.

This tour gives a great overview of the 3 countries visited with differing food, landscapes and people. Our group was small (only 9: Brits and Americans) which gave us a very close bonding time together and our leader 'Is' was outstanding in her warmth, compassion and sense of humour. The pace was faster than expected and yet although we cycled further than I have experience of, it was completely manageable and I was never tempted to get on the bus. It's hot and sweaty but virtually flat the whole way. There is more traffic and car fumes than anticipated and it felt a bit risky at times, but 'Is' had her eye on us the whole time with help from the crew. The food is wonderful and as a gluten free vegetable lover I was in heaven. There really is no need to bring anything extra except perhaps a bag of muesli. The cycle snacks are never ending and delicious. Culturally, we were indulged in many new tastes, sights and sounds from spiders, silk worms, frogs, rats and snakes to be eaten in the local markets to fabulous home cooking in the home stay. We toured Angkor Wat in its splendours over 3 days and enjoyed the boat ride in Cambodia and the homestay in Vietnam. Entering Vietnam, we experienced the New Year celebrations in a riot of colourful flowers and local costumes and decorations as well as some evening shows. We enjoyed every aspect of the trip and followed straight on to the Exodus Cycle Vietnam trip. This was totally manageable and I recommend it as a way of enhancing the experience if you can manage that amount of time and expenditure (see my review for that trip too). We loved the time spent in Saigon and also had a few extra days in Bangkok at the start to acclimatise to the time zone difference and the weather. The hotels along the way can be basic but all are clean and comfortable and most have swimming pools. Laundry is easy to do. Leave space in your suitcase for shopping. There are lots of possibilities along the way for cheap and colourful clothing, crafts and food items. The history of war can be hard to digest and the visits in Pnom Penh quite devastating. But we were taken for lunch to a community restaurant project rehabilitating street children, which was so uplifting that we could see how the people have moved forward from their dark history with quiet hope, endurance and humility. We have so many great photos and memories but are already thinking about where to go on our next adventure. A big thanks to 'Is' and Exodus for this great holiday.
What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?
Hearing about the Cambodia history and seeing how the people have forgiven though not forgotten all their strife.
What did you think of your group leader?
Fantastic in every way
Do you have any advice for potential travellers?
No need to take snacks along. Don't take too much clothing and leave space in your suitcase.
Is there anything else you would like to add?
Highly recommended

This was an excellent trip which has certainly encouraged us to look at another cycling holiday. Our guide, Rit, who was with us from Bangkok to Saigon was excellent, forever patient, informative and professional, he was a pleasure to be with. As we entered Cambodia & Vietnam we were joined by local guides for the journey through their country & they were also equally professional, as were all members of the support teams. Their humour certainly assisted us through some warm days.The cycle days were split quite well, with timely stops with lovely snacks & drinks supplied in some memorable settings. The trip covers some of the iconic places to visit in all three countries but also includes quite a bit of low key mixing with locals which was equally memorable.
What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?
Whilst Bangkok, Ankor Wat, Seim Reap, Phnom Penh, Mekong Delta & Saigon are certainly places to tick off a ''must visit'' list, some of the cycling through villages, stopping at local establishments & the general friendliness of the locals was equally inspirational.
What did you think of your group leader?
Rit was brilliant, as were the local guides who assisted in Cambodia & Vietnam. The bus drivers were always where they should have been & the cycle support team were very supportive! We appreciated the Exodus leaders more so after joining another trip with another company immediately after this & had a very poor, disinterested leader.
Do you have any advice for potential travellers?
We would both consider ourselves fit despite being in our 60's. However don't underestimate the first three days; 28 miles, 55 miles then 52 miles is quite a challenge especially in warm conditions, fresh onto a new bicycle. Put the miles in before you go & you'll benefit. DEFINITELY take cycling shorts!!
Is there anything else you would like to add?
Whilst we did have free evenings, some group members mentioned that another couple of free evenings (without an organised meal) wouldn't go amiss. Everyone mixed well & we met some lovely folks but being together from first thing in the morning to last thing at night on so many days could have been cut back slightly.

It was a brilliant trip . Very well run. The cycling was varied from long straight roads in Thialand to rough tracks along the Mekone valley . It was my first cycling trip and I'm now looking to do another. The support from the team was excellant , I was often near the back of the ride and thier was always a team member with us. . They were very supportive and encouraging . The bikes were well serviced. The stops for snacks had lovely fruits and drinks.
What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?
Ankor Wat was the best site we saw. The best cycling was along the Mekone river , along rough tracks through villiages . You got the real sense of the place.
What did you think of your group leader?
Rik was brilliant , always thier to support and encourage.
Do you have any advice for potential travellers?
The trip notes stated that the speed would be 8-10 miles per hour , I was at the back of our group and I was doing an average speed of 12-15 miles per hour , the lead pack was even faster.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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?

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

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.

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 organisation 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 customisation 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 catalogueue 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.

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.

The whole holiday was a great adventure and turned out to be even better than we hoped it would be! So much to see and do, we packed so much in it felt like we had been away for a month! Cycling allowed you to get to see bits of the countries that you would never normally get close too on other types of holidays -Brilliant!
What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?
Depends what you call inspirational but the thing that sticks in my mind , is coming around a corner in Vietnam to be faced by hundreds of children, who all turn and look at you and start screaming "hello" and waving at you -made you feel like some sort of Rock Star!
What did you think of your group leader?
Chai was excellent and looked after us all the way. His knowledge allowed us to stop and try local things as we cycled through the countryside, something you would think twice about if he wasn't with us. Learnt a lot about the local culture from him.

Well where do I start? This holiday was one big adventure from the start, right to the end. I saw and learnt so much.
What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?
So many inspirational moments but I think meeting so many Cambodian people who so friendly and happy, even though their country went through such a terrifying ordeal. They always had a big smile on their faces.
What did you think of your group leader?
Our tour leader Chai was always so professional and calm and so knowledgeable. He always greeted us with a big smile and always did his absolute best to look after us. I just hope Exodus realise what an asset he is to their company.
Do you have any advice for potential travellers?
Don't bother taking Cambodian and Vietnamese currencies. Just take Thai Baht and US Dollars. Baggy shorts over your cycling shorts was enough to get you into most temples. Take your own saddle or saddle gel cover. I took the saddle I did all my training in and I didn't have a sore bottom all holiday. Try as much of the different food you can.
Is there anything else you would like to add?
I am already looking at booking another Exodus holiday for next year. Everything was looked after and prepared for us and the whole holiday ran on rails (or should I say ran on bicycles?).