“May you live in interesting times.”

This English expression (or curse) certainly applies to our current global situation and makes planning long distance cycling tours even more challenging than usual, throwing up obstacles seemingly endlessly. One thing we have learned over 20 years, however,  is that obstacles also provide opportunities.

In late June last year, the Thailand/Cambodia border closed due to an ongoing conflict between the 2 nations. Our popular Bamboo Road Cycling Tour had been happily pedalling across that border ever since 2013 so for the 2026 ride, we obviously needed a Plan B. We could have simply paused the tour in Siem Reap, Cambodia for a few days to make up for the missing part of the route that crossed the border and continued to Bangkok and then flown directly to the Thai capital….but, hey, where’s the fun in that!

Instead, we researched a new plan to take the riders south from Phnom Penh into the southern region of Cambodia, somewhere our tours had not reached previously. They will get to cycle through some of Cambodia’s most beautiful countryside and experience many new highlights before arriving in Siem Reap for their flight to Bangkok. Here is some of what they can look forward to.

Cardamom Mountains

The vast forested region is one of the last remaining true wilderness areas in South East Asia. It features numerous sites of historical interest like jar burials and cave art and is home to some of the country’s indigenous peoples including the Chong who predate Khmer civilization. The mountains also contain a variety of fauna such as the Asian elephant, Indochinese tiger, clouded leopard, wild dog, gaur, Malayan sun bear, pileated gibbon, Sunda pangolin, Tenasserim white-bellied rat, Irrawaddy and humpback dolphins and the very rare Siamese crocodiles.

Wildlife Sanctuaries

Pangolin

The riders will pass through the Peam Krasaop & Phnum Samkos Wildlife Sanctuaries. The Peam Krasaop Sanctuary is just outside the riverside town of Koh Kong  where the riders will spend a night. Its spectacular mangroves protect the coastline and provide a safe spot for marine life to flourish. The Phnum Samkos Sanctuary is a vital area for birds and riders can also keep their eyes out for the rare pangolin.

Bonus tip: In Koh Kong, riders should be sure to visit the Crab Shack on Koh Yor Beach for delicious food and amazing sunset views.

Tatai Waterfalls

On their ride to Koh Kong, the cyclists should be sure to make the short 2km detour off the main road to see these falls. Set along the picturesque Tatai River, these beautiful rapids feature a number of refreshing pools where the riders can cool off after a long, hot day on their bikes.

>>Related Post: More (Battam)bang For Your Buck On The Bamboo Road

Sangkae River Boat Ride

Leaving the atmospheric French colonial architecture of Battambang, the riders will enjoy a relaxing cruise along the Sangkae River on a traditional Cambodian riverboat, taking in the riverside sights as they make their way to Siem Reap and the stunning temples of Angkor Wat.

RELATED
TOUR

Bamboo Road

Many of us have criss-crossed the countries of South-East Asia on a ‘shoestring’ over the years, returning home with fond memories. Now we invite...

One of the most rewarding aspects of riding the Bamboo Road Cycling Tour is that culture arrives unannounced. It’s not staged or scheduled. It sneaks up on you at a roadside stall, a shrine glimpsed on a hill, or a festival you hadn’t expected.

Vietnam: Rituals in rhythm

From Hanoi southwards, you’ll notice how rice is not just food but a calendar. In villages near Ninh Binh, children still practice the traditional bamboo dance (múa sạp), a rhythmic clapping of poles on the ground that echoes the planting and harvesting cycle. In Hue, families set lotus-shaped paper lanterns afloat on the Perfume River – offerings to ancestors and prayers for good fortune. The first time I saw it, I thought of a mural I once photographed in Toronto, a painting of paper boats drifting on a stormy wall. Both fragile, both luminous, both easy to miss if you don’t look twice.

Did you know? The bamboo dance (múa sạp) is believed to date back to the Thai ethnic minority in northern Vietnam. It’s performed during festivals and weddings as a symbol of fertility and harmony with the seasons.

Cambodia: The Small Shrines Of The Everyday

Crossing into Cambodia, the roadside tells a different story. Spirit houses, painted bright and filled with incense, line the roads. Some hold bowls of sticky rice, others a bottle of orange soda. These offerings are meant for protective spirits, a blend of animist and Buddhist traditions that remain woven into daily life. And then there’s the food that appears as suddenly as the shrines. On Cambodian backroads, vendors sell bundles of sticky rice wrapped in banana leaves, grilled until the edges char and the coconut milk inside turns sweet and smoky. Called krolan, it’s simple, filling, and unforgettable -exactly the kind of roadside ritual that fuels both locals and passing cyclists.

Thailand: The Market As Theatre

In coastal towns like Ranong or Trang, markets feel like stage sets in constant motion. Rambutan stacked in pyramids, grilled squid on skewers, monks collecting alms at dawn while vendors pause to offer rice before returning to business. On rest days, locals head to the hot springs – communal pools where families soak and chat. For tired riders, it’s recovery; for Thais, it’s ritual.

Did you know? The Thai word talad means market, and almost every town has a night market where food, commerce, and social life overlap. In Ranong, the hot springs are also considered medicinal – locals say the mineral-rich waters help circulation and joint pain.

Malaysia: Crossroads In A Teacup

By the time you reach Malaysia, culture becomes layered. In Georgetown, you ride past mosques, Hindu temples, Chinese clan houses, and colonial architecture – all within a few blocks. Even a glass of teh tarik, “pulled tea,” carries that complexity: the Malay name, Indian method, Chinese enamel cups. Watching a street vendor stretch it high between two tins is performance, history, and hospitality at once. Here, in Toronto, I often chase these same intersections – where styles, languages, and traditions overlap. The Bamboo Road is a similar collage, painted not on walls but in daily rituals.

Did you know? Teh tarik (“pulled tea”) is Malaysia’s national drink. It’s made with strong black tea and condensed milk, poured back and forth to cool it and create froth. The style originated with Indian Muslim traders in the 20th century.

Singapore: Where Tradition Meets Tomorrow

Singapore marks the grand finale of the Bamboo Road, where tradition and futurism meet in dazzling harmony. From the bustling hawker centres serving flavours from across Asia to the towering, glowing SuperTree Grove at Gardens by the Bay, every corner invites awe and exploration. Cycling through its clean, efficient streets, you experience both the pulse of a global metropolis and the charm of a city that celebrates its rich cultural heritage – a fitting crescendo to the Bamboo Road adventure. Singapore’s food scene is a cultural treasure trove. Hawker centres serve an incredible mix of Chinese, Malay, Indian, and Peranakan dishes, all bursting with flavour and history – cycling through the city, stopping for a plate of laksa or Hainanese chicken rice feels like tasting the heart of Singapore itself.

RELATED
TOUR

Bamboo Road

Many of us have criss-crossed the countries of South-East Asia on a ‘shoestring’ over the years, returning home with fond memories. Now we invite...

Is addiction a bad thing? Should our Bamboo Road Cycling Tour come with a health warning? Well, we don’t think so but he 2024 Bamboo Road seemed to captivate the riders as you can see from the following reviews.

The 2026 Bamboo Road Cycling Tour is now open for registration. Join us for an incredible ride through Vietnam, Cambodia, Thailand, Malaysia & Singapore…but be warned, you may become addicted to our cycling adventures!

“I loved biking before, but now I am addicted. I now know what I’m doing for at least the next decade of my life, cycling around the world. I will go on as many TDA tours as I can while I can.” – Camia Young (New Zealand)

“TDA cycling tours are the only ones that are the most challenging and rewarding, that’s why I am addicted to TDA cycling tours. Riders push themselves beyond their limits in those tough terrains and long mileage days, and you wonder what more you couldn’t accomplish in your life. Cycling with TDA is great mental health therapy and you would never regret it!” – Gail Cascketta (USA)

“Well, as a first tour with TDA it is just a big WOW. Members of the staff were always smiling and taking care of us. Discovering new countries with different culture were amazing. Children were so happy to see us and the population were very respectful, I never felt any dangerous situation. This tour is engraved in my memory.” – Jean Lapointe (Canada)

“It was a great journey organized in a very professional way.” – Rob Risseeuw (Netherlands)

“It was great to be so immersed in Asian culture. I will never forget the friendly people and the cheerful greetings in Vietnam and Cambodia when we cycled past. It was also great to experience the differences in atmosphere in the different countries, from Buddhist (and communist) Vietnam to Islamic Malaysia. Finally, the parts we cycled through the ‘quiet and untouched’ nature will forever be etched in my retina. So beautiful, so overwhelming.” – Ingrid Verhoef (Netherlands)

“A great way to see Asia. Locals were incredibly friendly in Vietnam and Cambodia in particular. Food was great which is always a bonus on a long tour in more remote areas.” – Catherine Archibald (UK)

“The progression in this trip is truly its chemistry. Though I might have anticipated the huge overall contrast from Vietnam to Singapore, there was no country that didn’t reveal itself in a myriad of unexpected ways. And the sum total is the vivid richness of this whole journey. Its challenges were as rewarding as the landscapes and people were magical. I had never thought that this was within my reach, but once underway the confidence of the staff and the enthusiasm of the riders was the best fuel I could ask for.” – Trish Dixon (UK)

“Another great experience riding with TDA and gaining a greater understanding of Thailand and its culture. Even when it was raining it was fun! The staff team were exceptional and so helpful and understanding and even when some temporary health issues and mechanical issues on the bike arose, they were on hand to assist and had everything in hand.” – Paul Holbrook (UK)

RELATED
TOUR

Bamboo Road

Many of us have criss-crossed the countries of South-East Asia on a ‘shoestring’ over the years, returning home with fond memories. Now we invite...

Coby Werlin was the Content Creator on the 2024 Bamboo Road Cycling Tour.

Southeast Asia is a region of the world where food is so much more than just a means of nourishment, it is a way of life. From the tranquil rice paddy fields to the ever-bustling markets, the roadside fruit stands to the fish-drying techniques in front of local homes, there are so many layers to the diverse cuisine culture we’ve seen while cycling throughout Vietnam, Cambodia, Thailand and Malaysia. While some elements stayed the same throughout our journey, others slowly changed, evolved, overlapped and blended as we delved deeper into the region, so let’s dig in!

The Constants

RICE

By far, the heart of southeast Asian cuisine is, and always will be, rice. Every single dinner (as well as several breakfasts) revolved around rice – rice stir fry, rice noodles, rice soups, and rice desserts. While cycling, the lush rice paddy fields were such a consistent sight throughout the entirety of the tour, and when we weren’t passing paddy fields, we’d be passing locals spreading rice out in front of their homes to dry, vendors selling sticky rice treats, or even large mortar-&-pestle-style rice-pounding mechanisms to create a sort of rice-cereal mix.

MARKETS

No matter what country, the local markets (both day & night) are always fascinating, bustling spectacles full of vibrant colours, textures, sounds and smells. While at times overwhelming, they are simultaneously exhilarating opportunities to try new things (like edible insects!) or at least experience them as a passerby. The markets are typically split into sections – meats, fish, fruits, vegetables, grains, etc, and are generally easy to navigate, however finding the freshest items as a foreigner can be a bit tricky, so the Bamboo Road crew always enjoyed joining the local support staff at markets to shop for fresh lunch supplies and to soak up the culinary experience.

FRUITS

There’s always a vast selection of exotic tropical fruit to choose from – lychee, longan, rambutan, mangosteen, dragonfruit, and of course, the infamous durian – as well as more common pineapples, papayas, watermelon, bananas and more, the list goes on and on and on. Needless to say, each lunch consisted of some spectacular fruit salads, and many of our riding days were spent pedalling through various pineapple fields, potent durian plantations, and vast coconut groves. Coconuts were the perfect refreshment on a hot riding day, and they became so frequent that “coco stops” became the new “coke stop”.

Related Video: Durian Taste Test

The Changes

VIETNAM

Traditional Vietnamese cuisine, similar to other traditions in Asia, stems from a unique food philosophy based on several “5 elements” (5 flavours: spicy, sour, bitter, salty, sweet, 5 nutrients: powder, water, minerals, protein, fat, and 5 colours: white, green, yellow, red, black), so each dish is meant to be a well-rounded blend of flavourful, plentiful, and colourful. From the very start in Hanoi, we indulged in many amazing phos, bun cha, cao lau (a local dish from Hoi An), bun bo Hue (in Hue!), as well as the country’s French-inspired fusion elements like banh mi and egg coffee. The spice levels were fairly low, and the flavour levels were high!

CAMBODIA

As we moved inland toward Cambodia, many elements and ingredients remained the same as Vietnam, though made in very different styles. The most major difference was that Khmer cuisine dialled up the heat levels ever-so-slightly (though the outside heat was dialled up by quite a bit), and many dishes took on new depths with Khmer spice pastes and the fermented fish paste known as prahok. Some of the French influence still lingered with fresh croissants and baguettes at breakfasts, and flavours of lemongrass, ginger, turmeric and tamarind filled many meals.

THAILAND

Upon entering Thailand, the influence of western culture became very apparent in many ways, but food was not one of them. Here, the spice levels excelled yet again in a very dramatic direction, emphasizing bold flavours in dishes like papaya salads and spicy coconut-based curries. Of course, we dined on many “pad” dishes (which translate simply as “fried” in Thai) as well, such as pad kra pao, pad kee mao, pad see ew, and of course the tourist favourite, pad thai.

MALAYSIA

As we crossed into Malaysia, we encountered a unique fusion of flavours shaped by the country’s diverse population of Malay, Chinese and Indian influence. On some days we encountered Indian-inspired biriyani, roti, and dosa, and on others, Chinese dishes like Hainanese chicken, congee, char siu, and Cantonese noodles, or Malaysian Halal-style nasi lemak with sambal, laksa, and a refreshing cendol dessert. We rode high up into the Cameron Highlands, where tea plantations and strawberry fields thrived, and found tea houses that paired with English-style pastries for a nice rest from the riding day before re-encountering the misty hills.

SINGAPORE

And finally, while our time in Singapore was short, we rode into one of the city-state’s many hawker’s markets for an eclectic mix of Asian fusion meal options, and even enjoyed a fantastic final dinner consisting of Burmese-style cuisine. While Singaporean cuisine feels awfully similar to Malaysian cuisine, it is, like any international city, filled with a multitude of culinary options from all around Asia and beyond.

RELATED
TOUR

Bamboo Road

Many of us have criss-crossed the countries of South-East Asia on a ‘shoestring’ over the years, returning home with fond memories. Now we invite...

Coby Werlin is the Content Creator on the 2024 Bamboo Road Cycling Tour.

Last year TDA ventured through Vietnam on the inaugural Golden Buddha Ride from Saigon heading north, while the year before that, the previous Bamboo Road ran from Hanoi heading south. The experience on those tours illustrated that many aspects of Vietnam have gone unchanged. The outdoor markets still buzz with liveliness and a perplexing array of unique food and crafts. The rice paddy fields are still a calming scene to bike past, full of water buffalo and peaceful reflections in the water of the mountains and the blue sky overhead. And the unwavering friendliness of the Vietnamese people is still all around you. Other elements, however, seem to be changing rapidly across Vietnam as it experiences growth and urbanization in seemingly every capacity.

In as little as 50 years, amid the aftermath of the Vietnam War, the country has evolved from one of the poorest nations in the world into one of the world’s fastest growing economies, with flourishing industries in electronics, textiles and seafood. It has established strong trade agreements with other powerful nations in Asia and beyond, earning its rank as a ‘Tiger Club’ economy alongside Singapore, Taiwan and South Korea, with an incredibly hard-working population.

Throughout our first week cycling out of Hanoi, the staff who had worked previous TDA trips here in Vietnam began to notice changes to Vietnam’s infrastructure that were not present even 2 years ago and, like any developing nation, these changes seem to come with some compromises. Several roads on our cue sheet that were previously rudimentary dirt paths have turned into sleek, smooth pavement. Remote villages are building new homes, hotels and bridges, and almost every local in town seems to have easy access to a smartphone. Even some of the beautiful limestone karsts that make the Vietnamese landscape so unique and biodiverse are being demolished and processed into cement in order to build these new developments.

Our local Vietnamese support, Lanh, who has worked alongside several TDA trips in the region, is hopeful for Vietnam’s future but mindful of holding onto the beauty of Vietnam’s traditional cultures: “Today, Vietnam is changing very quickly, it’s telling the world a story of successful innovation. Vietnam’s economy is growing at around 7% per year, one of the fastest rates in the world. While agriculture is, and always will be, essential in Vietnam – most importantly rice, but also sugarcane, cassava, corn, sweet potato and nuts – Vietnam is also transforming into a market economy to bring millions of people out of low-productivity agricultural areas, and into high productivity industrial and commercial ones. It’s important that we educate our younger generations on our traditional values, and not lose sight of them through all of these changes that Vietnam is facing.”

Amid the ongoing process of development, Vietnam is still filled with authentic moments throughout the ride. Navigating the scooter traffic is a daily obstacle course, conversing with the locals is always a joy (especially the school children practicing their English), and the lush landscapes of rice fields, rock formations, and the South China Sea’s coastline remains breathtaking.

With an ever-increasing tourism industry, Vietnam is now more accessible than ever, and while cycling here has now become just a touch easier, some may miss those bumpy, muddy roads of yesteryear. It’s a delicate balance between savouring the old and embracing the new, but like so many nations that are evolving, the changes are inevitable, and are bringing prosperity to Vietnam as a whole. A popular Vietnamese proverb goes, ‘Thất bại là mẹ thành công,’, or ‘Failure is the mother of success.’ Vietnam has undoubtedly seen its fair share of troubles over the last century, so perhaps it nice to see Vietnam changing gears on the pathway to success.

RELATED
TOUR

Bamboo Road

Many of us have criss-crossed the countries of South-East Asia on a ‘shoestring’ over the years, returning home with fond memories. Now we invite...

It may be difficult to think about fall and winter as summer is just around the corner (well, here in the northern hemisphere that is), but now is an excellent time to plan a shorter, end-of-year adventure while spaces are still available. We have recently opened up a few spots in Patagonia on the South American Epic and spaces remain available in Southeast Asia on the Bamboo Road and in Tasmania & New Zealand on the Trans-Oceania. There are also a limited number of spots on the inaugural Cape to Kili African tour. These incredible adventures start in mid-October or later and range in length from 12 days to four weeks.

1. Bike Across the Andes in Argentina & Chile

*18 days starting October 11th in Salta, Argentina*

“The road climbs up to almost 4000 m in the shadow of Cerro Aconcagua, at 6922 m, the highest mountain in the Western Hemisphere. This is wild high country and the riders can expect gusting winds, chilly temperatures and, if clear, incredible views. The border crossing into Chile, one of the highest in the world, is at 3200 m. Once over pass, the cyclists will enjoy a twisting ride down the other side of the mountain range on a series of switchbacks – eventually reaching the country’s capital Santiago with its 19th century neo-classical architecture and winding side streets.”

FULL DETAILS HERE for the ‘Across the Andes’ section.

2. Cycle the Lake District south of Santiago, Chile

*15 days starting October 31st in Santiago, Chile*

As described in a blog from the 2017 tour, the Lake District is a welcome dose of pleasant. It is, of course, still challenging but it is below average in terms of the difficulty rating for the full tour. In fact, it is the only section on the South American Epic that is below a 4/5 rating. It has some fantastic campsites, beautiful lakes and mountain views and access to wonderful Chilean wines and cuisine.

FULL DETAILS HERE for the ‘Lake District’ section.

3. Explore Patagonia & the Carretera Austral

*28 days starting November 16th in Puerto Montt, Chile*

“You look here and there’s a mountain range. You look here there’s another mountain range, you look back and there’s a huge waterfall. It’s astounding.” – from our Cycling Patagonia video. In the final weeks of the South American Epic, riders experience the unique and awesome scenery of Patagonia – its mountains, waterways and roads that take them to the southern tip of the South American continent.

FULL DETAILS HERE for the ‘Carretera Austral’ section.

4. Enjoy Two Weeks Circling Tasmania

*14 days starting October 15th in Launceston, Australia*

“The Australian island of Tasmania is quickly gaining a reputation as a cyclist’s paradise – from cross country to downhill, to relaxing rides along quiet country roads with scenic coastal views. Lightly-trafficked roads in good condition provide a great network to explore the entire island…While you are happily pedalling along – on your own or as part of the Trans-Oceania Cycling Tour – be aware that Tasmania has a lot more to offer riders than just ideal cycling conditions.” Read 6 Reasons to Cycle Tasmania.

FULL DETAILS HERE for the ‘Tasmanian Devils & Tigers’ section.

5. New Zealand – North Island

*12 days starting November 21st in Auckland, New Zealand*

“[From Auckland] the riders begin their journey south and are treated to some of the world’s most scenic highlights like Lake Taupo and the hot springs/mud geysers around Rotorua. A rest day in National Park gives riders the option of experiencing the renowned Tongariro Crossing day hike. After a day of tasting the famous New Zealand Sauvignon Blancs, the cyclists will continue through orchards, sheep-clad rolling hills and yet more vineyards before arriving in beautiful Wellington, the country’s cultural capital and the end of this incredible section.”

FULL DETAILS HERE for the ‘Maori Magic’ section.

6. New Zealand – South Island

*12 days starting December 4th in Wellington, New Zealand*

“The west coast of New Zealand’s South Island is spectacular: the stunning Pancake Rocks, rushing rivers pouring into the ocean, snow-clad peaks, wild kiwis, the Fox & Franz Joseph glaciers, mysterious caves, abandoned mine shafts, empty beaches, hot springs and much more. Five days later the route heads inland past Lakes Wanaka & Hawea before heading up the Cardrona River and its abandoned goldfields. Cyclists will then traverse the Crown Range summit, before an exhilarating descent to historic Arrowtown. From there it is just a quick ride in to the end of this incredible journey in the country’s adventure capital, Queenstown.”

FULL DETAILS HERE for the ‘Kiwi Country’ section.

7. Bike The Classic Southeast Asian Route through Vietnam, Cambodia & Thailand

*31 days starting October 19th in Hanoi, Vietnam*

“Heading south from Hanoi, the riders will pass water buffalo, farmers, and rice paddies along secluded country lanes. Staying inland, they will travel through small villages along the famous Ho Chi Minh Trail before heading to the coast and the historic cities of Hue and Hoi An. The route then takes them into Cambodia past ancient Khmer temples before arriving in Phnom Penh…We stop in Siem Reap, home to one of the world’s most spectacular sights – Angkor Wat – 40 square km of temples and statues of gods and demons. The tour then continues on to Bangkok – known for its vibrant street life – and the end of this section.”

FULL DETAILS HERE for the ‘Golden Triangle’ section.

8. Discover Thailand & Malaysia

*15 days starting November 20th in Bangkok, Thailand*

“Leaving Bangkok, the riders will hug the coast of the Gulf of Thailand with palm trees, sand and warm waters on one side and forested mountains on the other. The cyclists will stop in Thailand’s oldest beach resort, Hua Hin. Further south…a rest day in the small southern city of Ranong. Riders can enjoy the laid-back atmosphere or a soothing dip in the local hot springs. There will be some challenging climbing here, our first since leaving Vietnam, and the riders will subsequently enjoy their rest day in Ao Nang…The expedition then turns back inland and crosses into Malaysia before jumping on a ferry into historic Georgetown, Penang, the end of this sun-soaked section.”

FULL DETAILS HERE for the ‘Thai One On’ section.

9. Explore Malaysia & Singapore via the Scenic Cameron Highlands

*13 days starting December 6th in Penang, Malaysia*

“The Cameron Highlands were first mapped out by the British in 1885 but it wasn’t until the 1930’s that they decided to turn it into a hill station, similar to those in British India, especially after it was shown that tea could be grown in the area. The Highlands are home to over 700 species of plants including many that are rare to the tropics. The Highlands are blessed not only with cool weather but also with verdant forests, picturesque lakes, sparkling waterfalls, rushing rivers and even hidden aboriginal villages.” Read more from High Tea on the Bamboo Road.

FULL DETAILS HERE for the ‘Singapore Sling’ section.

10. Take An East African Cycling Adventure With Views Of Mt Kilimanjaro

*20 days starting October 16th in Lilongwe, Malawi*

“We cruise downhill towards Lake Malawi and then head north into Tanzania where the red earth meets the deep green forest roads that cut through the centre of the country. From there it isn’t too many more days before we reach the end of our journey, with Mount Kilimanjaro towering above us in Moshi, Tanzania.” Read more on A New Tour d’Afrique Experience.

FULL DETAILS HERE for the ‘Green Hills of Africa’ section.

 To see everything we offer in 2024 and beyond, visit our tour calendar page.

Cycling the Bamboo Road can be a visual pleasure not only due to the breathtaking landscapes, bustling markets and historical landmarks. For humble art lovers, like myself, one of the most enchanting aspects of this amazing journey is the vibrant street art that adorns the urban landscapes along the way. Having initially known only about Ernest Zacharevic, the ‘Malaysian Banksy‘ when I began this blog, I now invite you, my curious reader, to discover the remarkable murals along the Bamboo Road. So, let’s dive into street art together.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by 오작가/(주)컬러헌터 (@5yethree)

The very first city of the tour reveals to us a whole street of murals. Opened in 2018, Phung Hung Street in Hanoi’s Old Quarter is a Vietnamese and South Korean artists’ project with vivid depictions of traditional Vietnamese life, merging history with contemporary creativity. Cyclists can pedal through alleys adorned with murals that narrate tales of local folklore, ancient architecture, and the everyday vibrancy of Vietnamese culture.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Mademoiselle Maurice (@mademoisellemaurice)

If you were ever familiar with the Mademoiselle Maurise street art projects around Europe, you may be surprised to see her rainbow-coloured installation on the Le Loi Street, near the Perfume River in Hue. Known for her intricate origami-inspired murals, Maurice transforms urban spaces with bursts of colour and geometric patterns. Her work in Hue often incorporates themes of nature and humanity, blending traditional Vietnamese motifs with her unique contemporary style. These installations not only beautify the city but also invite viewers to reflect on the interconnectedness of life, culture, and the environment. As you cycle through Hue, encountering Maurice’s art is like stumbling upon a visual symphony that enriches the historical and cultural tapestry of this enchanting city. Carve out some time of your rest day in Hue to see this street art, and you won’t regret it.

Tam Thanh, Vietnam

But the mural street art is not the only thing that Vietnam can surprise you with. Have you heard about the street art village which is located just 45 kilometres south of Hoi An, our next rest day spot? Tam Thanh was a poor village until local and Korean artists launched the community art project and painted more than 100 houses in three weeks. These colourful murals depict local life, folklore, and the stunning coastal landscape. Each piece of art tells a story, celebrating the culture and daily activities of the villagers while bringing a splash of creativity and tourism to the area. As you stroll through Tam Thanh, the cheerful, artistic atmosphere provides a unique and immersive experience, blending the charm of rural Vietnam with the beauty of street art.

As the tour spins into Cambodia, the contrast between historical anguish and contemporary hope is vividly portrayed in its street art. Phnom Penh, the capital, showcases murals that reflect both the tragic history of the Khmer Rouge era and the resilience of its people. The works of artists like Fonki, a Cambodian-Canadian artist, blend traditional Cambodian iconography with modern styles, creating pieces that resonate deeply with both locals and visitors.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by FONKi FT (@fonkiworld)

In Thailand, Bangkok’s street art scene is an eclectic mix of traditional motifs and modern urban culture. Areas like Charoen Krung Road and the neighbourhoods around the Chao Phraya River are hotspots for street art. The walls are adorned with works by both Thai and international artists, blending styles and themes from intricate traditional Thai designs to bold, abstract pieces.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Alexandre Farto (@vhils)

The most stand out art for me is a truly eye-catching wall carving by Vhils which takes the front wall of the Portuguese Embassy.

From Bangkok we move to the street art capital of Asia, which is obviously, Penang, Malaysia. Its streets and walls have become both inspiration and canvas for my favourite “Malaysian Banksy”, Ernest Zakharevich, a Lithuanian-born artist, whom I was fortunate to discover thanks to my friends from Malaysia. “ZAKH” created a series of interactive murals that quickly became iconic. His art often blends elements of whimsy and realism, incorporating everyday objects into the painted scenes, which encourages public interaction and engagement. While there are quite a few murals that are definitely worth your attention, I will highlight a piece of art on the cozy Armenian street.

Kids on a Bike

Ernest Zacharevic’s ‘Kids on a Bike’ mural is one of the most celebrated and recognizable pieces of street art in George Town. The mural has not only become a beloved landmark in George Town but also a symbol of the city’s cultural vibrancy and artistic renaissance. It captures the essence of everyday life and the universal joy of childhood, resonating with both locals and tourists. Over the years, it has attracted countless visitors who come to admire and engage with the artwork, contributing to the mural’s enduring popularity and iconic status. Ernest Zacharevic’s ‘Kids on a Bike’ is a testament to his ability to create art that is both visually striking and emotionally compelling, turning a simple wall into a cherished piece of community heritage.

Kampong Glam, Singapore

The final leg of the Bamboo Road tour brings cyclists to Singapore, where street art is both celebrated and curated. The city-state’s strict regulations are balanced by designated areas for legal street art, such as Haji Lane, Kampong Glam, and the ever-evolving Art Lane in Tiong Bahru.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Didier Jaba Mathieu (@didierjabamathieu)

The mural ‘el lío’ by Didier Jaba Mathieu is the most famous wall mural at Haji Lane and is synonymous with the vibrant street art scene here. Located at the back of Piedra Negra on the corner of Beach Road and Ophir Road, it depicts the indigenous Aztec people dominant in Mexico before the Spanish conquest in the 16th century.

I am sure that while pedalling the Bamboo Road, you will discover your own hidden gems and might even dispute my choice of the top murals along the route so feel free to share your own list—I’ll be delighted to know that my endeavours have inspired you to conduct your personal art investigations. This tour is more than just a cycling route through Southeast Asia; it’s a journey through a living gallery of street art. Each mural and work of graffiti tells a story, offering insights into the region’s history, culture, and contemporary issues. As you travel from Vietnam to Singapore, you will witness breathtaking natural and urban landscapes and engage with the colourful, dynamic expressions of local artists. This artistic layer adds a profound and enriching dimension to the Bamboo Road experience, making it a truly unforgettable adventure.

RELATED
TOUR

Bamboo Road

Many of us have criss-crossed the countries of South-East Asia on a ‘shoestring’ over the years, returning home with fond memories. Now we invite...

On the Bamboo Road Cycling Tour, the riders will  spin through stunning mountains, along sparkling coastlines, into misty valleys, beside historic waterways, into small villages and ancient historic sites, all while revelling in some of the world’s best foods and enjoying the unsurpassed hospitality of the region’s people and the area’s endless charm.

They will also enjoy the opportunity to explore some of the region’s famous temples and pagodas; Buddhist, Hindu, Taoist, Confucian and Khmer. They range from simple, humble structures to sprawling complexes but all offer an insight into Southeast Asia’s byzantine history and the dazzling spirituality of its peoples.

Hanoi – Temple Of Literature (Confucian)

While the temples in the north of Vietnam tend to be strongly influenced by Chinese design, the Temple of Literature, built in 1070 by Emperor Ly Thanh Tong, is a wonderful example of traditional Vietnamese architecture. Dedicated to Confucius and Vietnamese scholars, it was the site of country’s first university beginning in 1076. In the midst of Hanoi’s bustling traffic, the temple’s five courtyards are an oasis of tranquility and a popular spot for graduation photos.

Hue – Thien Mu Temple (Buddhist)

Within the grounds of this temple founded in 1601, stands the iconic Thap Phuoc Duyen tower. Constructed in 1844 it is considered a symbol of Hue and each of its 7 stories is dedicated to Buddha. In the grounds one can find the car that took the Buddhist monk Thich Quang Duc to Saigon, the site of his famous self-immolation in 1963. This act was directed against the policies of the South Vietnamese President Diem, who was assassinated just months afterwards.

Phnom Penh – Silver Pagoda (Buddhist)

Also known as the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, its floor is covered by 5000 silver tiles, about 5 tonnes of silver. It was built in 1892 and is located on the grounds of the National Palace. The walls inside are covered by murals, painted in the early 20th century, telling the story of the Reamker, Cambodia’s national poem. Fortunately the temple was not destroyed by the Khmer Rouge during their rule in an attempt to display their concern for Cambodia’s heritage.

Siam Reap – Angkor Wat (Khmer)

What more can one say about one of the world’s most famous temple complexes? The largest religious structure on earth, it is a potent national symbol for the country, reflecting the height of Khmer civilization. Perhaps the Portuguese Friar, António da Madalena, who visited in the 16th century put it best, “it is of such extraordinary construction that it is not possible to describe it with a pen, particularly since it is like no other building in the world. It has towers and decoration and all the refinements which the human genius can conceive of.”

Bangkok – Wat Phra Kaew (Buddhist)

This temple is considered the spiritual home of Thai Buddhism and is still used by the country’s royal family for religious ceremonies. Located in the centre of the city on the grounds of the Grand Palace, it is home to the Emerald Buddha, Thailand’s most sacred image. A major destination for Buddhist pilgrims, the walls surrounding the temple are covered by 178 murals depicting the story of Rama and are over 2 kilometres in length.

Kuala Lumpur – Sri Mariamman Temple (Hindu)

Built in 1873 this is the oldest Hindu temple in Malaysia. Built in the Southern Indian style and dedicated to the Goddess Parvati, it provided a place of worship for early Indian immigrants to the city. The towering colourful tower (gopuram) depicts a wide variety of Hindu Gods and the temple is home to a silver chariot used during the annual Thaipusam festival to transport statues of Lord Murga to the sacred Batu Caves, about 15 kms away.

Singapore – Thian Hock Keng Temple (Taoist)

Built in 1839 and dedicated to Mazu, the Goddess of the Sea, Singapore’s oldest Chinese temple was once located on the waterfront where Chinese immigrants gave thanks for their safe arrival. Constructed without the use of nails in the southern Chinese style of Fujian, where many newcomers came from, stone lions guard the doors in a traditional Taoist design. Religious ceremonies continue to this day and encompasses Taoism, Buddhism, Confucianism and Ancestral Worship.

RELATED
TOUR

Bamboo Road

Many of us have criss-crossed the countries of South-East Asia on a ‘shoestring’ over the years, returning home with fond memories. Now we invite...

Ever since we ran the inaugural Bamboo Road way back in 2013, this tour has remained one of the most popular on our roster. With good reason! South-East Asia offers great weather, delicious food, incredible scenery, friendly people and hotels every night. The 2024 tour will take riders through Vietnam, Cambodia, Thailand, Malaysia and Singapore with rest days in some of the region’s most famous sites such as Hoi An, Siem Reap and Bangkok.

If you are wondering what life on the Bamboo Road is like, here are some of the best blogs from the field.

1 – Reflections On The Bamboo Road (2019)

Canadian cyclist Gerry van der Weyden, who also rode the Tour d’Afrique in 2019, wrote about his experiences on the Bamboo Road including getting used to the strict, recurring daily tour schedule – “I have come to understand the irony that opting for this deliberate and controlled life in itself sets me free. I happily give myself over to the mission, and to the fledging society of nomads riding along with me. My other world, the schedules and lists included, soon falls away.” (Read more)

2 – Zen & The Bamboo Road Bicycle Tour (2019)

TDA Founder Henry Gold took a look at how Zen philosophy could help future riders deal with the challenges of the tour by adopting the attitude – ‘Be like the bamboo.’ His piece includes the following advice:  “Bend but don’t break. Be flexible yet firmly rooted.” “Remember: What looks weak is strong.” “Be always ready.”Unleash your power to spring back.” (Read more)

3 – Hanoi: Death By A Hundred (Thousand) Scooters (2015)

In 2015 TDA staffer Michael Coo joined the Bamboo Road in Hanoi and after spending some time exploring the city wrote that, “Saigon may be busier. Singapore may be cleaner. Hong Kong may be bigger. Kuala Lumpur may be more prosperous and Bangkok may be more popular but Hanoi takes the cake as the best city – the Grand Dame – of South East Asia.” (Read more)

4 – What Future Bamboo Riders Have To Look Forward To (2022)

Jill Cohen, the medic, and Sheelagh Daly, the Content Creator, on the 2022 Bamboo Road decided to let future riders know what to expect on their ride across South-East Asia. Their list included curious locals, stunning landscapes, new friendships with fellow riders and some of the best food on the planet. (Read more)

5 – The Bamboo Road From A Buddhist Perspective (2013)

On the very first Bamboo Road tour in 2013, Canadian participant Paul Tomlinson took a detailed look at how a Buddhist perspective fit into a cycling tour across South-East Asia. He noted the “shrines and temples by the road, elegant Buddhas on hillsides, monks on their morning ‘alms round’, and Buddhas of all shapes and sizes in the markets” and concluded that “this trip offers an intense and focused opportunity to reflect on aspects of the dhamma.” (Read more)

6 – The Mood Shift Of Cycling The Last Thousand Kilometres (2017)

As the 2017 Bamboo Road reached the point where there were ‘only’ 1000 kms to go to the finish in Singapore, field staffer Brad Davis noticed that gradually, “Coke stops become more frequent, people ease up on the hard and fast cycling in favour of little excursions throughout the day such as boat rides or temple tours, and people who generally leave early or prefer to cycle alone start mingling more and sticking around later for that one extra beer with the group after dinner.” (Read more)

7 – Swimming Down The Bamboo Road: Cycling In Southeast Asia (2022)

Noting that, “There’s a certain poetry to the chaotic weave of traffic in Southeast Asia. Streets are packed with scooters, cars, trucks, trailers, motorcycles, buses, tuk-tuks, and bicycles moving in all directions, without any appreciable gaps between them,”  2022 Bamboo Road tour Medic Jill Cohen offered up 6 rules of the road that riders should always keep in mind. (Read more)

8 – Coast To Coast: Crossing The Malay Peninsula By Bike (2017)

TDA 2017 Bamboo Road staffer Brad Davis wrote a piece about how, on a cloudy, rainy day that took the riders across the Malay Peninsula in Southern Thailand, he had anticipated a rather dull day. Instead, unexpectedly, “The second half of the ride proved to be as beautiful as the first half – winding road, rolling hills, nice bridges over twisting rivers, and dense jungle getting lost behind wisps of low-lying clouds.” You never know what to expect each day will bring on the Bamboo Road! (Read more)

9 – Holiday In Cambodia (2015)

In this reflective blog on Cambodia, TDA staff member Michael Coo contrasted the conditions in the country in 2015 as opposed to his first visit back in 2002. “I have been lucky enough to return to Cambodia yet again in 2015 and what I have found makes me smile. To see a country that was utterly destroyed by a crazed ideology, that started to rebuild less than a generation ago from essentially nothing – no infrastructure, no public institutions – as it is today is quite amazing.” (Read more)

10 – Walking In Kuala Lumpur (2013)

The first thing TDA Founder Henry Gold likes to do when he arrives in a new city is to take a long, aimless stroll through its streets. In 2013, he arrived in the Malaysian capital of Kuala Lumpur and discovered, “This city seems to have expanded and grown in a manner like a child building with a Lego set. You start with something and add to it. And then you think of something else and add it.” (Read more)

RELATED
TOUR

Bamboo Road

Many of us have criss-crossed the countries of South-East Asia on a ‘shoestring’ over the years, returning home with fond memories. Now we invite...

Judith Gold rode the 2022 Bamboo Road and looks back at her time cycling one of the region’s most famous historic trails.

Ok, so it’s not a trail, it’s now a highway. Really, it is just a two-lane road, with surprising little traffic and in great condition. But it still evokes strange emotions.

A good part of the Bamboo Road 2022 trip in Vietnam was on this road. I think I can safely say, that biking the Ho Chi Minh Trail would not be on many people’s bucket list. It’s not like the Nile, the Danube, nor the Camino. And certainly not like the Tour d’Afrique, the Orient Express, nor the Silk Route. It has none of those romantic associations.

Yet, it should be and not only because of the scenery. There are all kind of agricultural lands: rice paddies and an assortment of plantations, including pineapple, dragon fruit, rubber, coffee, and tea, and those are just the ones that I recognize. It also traverses through some impressive mountains and cliffs that are generally associated with classic images of Vietnam. It passes through countless little villages and mid-size towns and it even take riders to a UNESCO World Heritage site – the Phong Nha-Khe National Park.

And, of course, there is its historic significance, tied up with the Vietnam War and all that the conflict evokes. The intense student protests of the 1960s, the turbulent politics of the first half of the 1970s, Nixon, Watergate, the Pentagon Papers, and the final end of the war, a milestone for the US – withdrawal from Vietnam. It marked the end of an era, where the US, while not defeated, was humiliated and it became clear that it could no longer call all the shots.

However, I finally realized the reason the ride felt so special, is that it shows humanity’s resilience and ability to recover after a tumultuous and destructive era. After a war that spanned three decades, against two rich western nations, one of which was (and is) a superpower, one sees a mostly prosperous nation and industrious people. While not wealthy compared to Europe, there is little evidence of poverty, the land is cultivated, the infrastructure amazingly good, much of the housing stock would not be out of place in many European and North American towns, and most important, the people seem happy. One just feels it. In the smiles and hellos one gets as the road slowly rolls by, kilometre by kilometre.

This seems especially important now, with another war raging on the European continent, between a superpower (or one that thinks it is) and a smaller, much weaker neighbour, who everyone thought, did not stand a chance.

Maybe that is why I was feeling so happy riding the Ho Chi Minh Trail, the sense of hope and a future, even when the world feels particularly dark. That even war-damaged, weakened nations can prevail, recover and prosper. Or maybe I am just reading too much into a great ride….

RELATED
TOUR

Bamboo Road

Many of us have criss-crossed the countries of South-East Asia on a ‘shoestring’ over the years, returning home with fond memories. Now we invite...

Jill Cohen was the Medic on the 2022 Bamboo Road. She shares this blog about local languages on the trip.

There’s a significant language barrier for Westerners in Southeast Asia. The Vietnamese language uses Latin script, has 6 different tones and borrows words from French and Chinese. The Thai alphabet has 44 consonants, 32 vowels, 5 tones and gender-specific pronouns. In Cambodia, Khmer is the official language, but there are no tones or conjugations, and 19 indigenous languages are also spoken. And in Indonesia and Malaysia, there are two very similar-sounding languages: Bahasa Indonesia and Bahasa Melayu. However, sometimes they don’t sound similar at all, as in the case of the word “man.” In Bahasa Indonesia it’s “tuan,” and in Bahasa Melayu it’s “bapak.”

All of this creates the potential for visitors in Southeast Asia to feel lost and confused. Fortunately though, the locals are adept at using a highly expressive form of communication that covers just about anything they need to convey. It’s a combination of pantomime plus one little word, and that little word is hello. A few examples:

1.) At the ferry, “hello!” = Get on this boat, not that one.
2.) At the market, “hello!” = Come back, you forgot your cucumbers.
3.) On the bike, “hello!” = Come take a photo with us.
4.) At the fruit stand, “hello!” = Your coconut shake is ready.
5.) At a temple, “hello!” = Watch out for the monkeys.
6.) At the entrance to a house, “hello” = Please remove your shoes.
7.) At a school, “hello!” = Just something the kids say, because it gives them the giggles when we say it back.

From Hanoi to Singapore and everywhere in between, “hello” was also of course a simple greeting—earnest, friendly, kind, welcoming, warm and sweet. It’s been about three weeks since we finished the Bamboo Road, and although it’s been wonderful to say hello to friends and family back home, I sure do miss the fun variety of hellos in Southeast Asia. I dream of returning sometime and discovering what else a simple hello can say.

RELATED
TOUR

Bamboo Road

Many of us have criss-crossed the countries of South-East Asia on a ‘shoestring’ over the years, returning home with fond memories. Now we invite...

Gerry van der Weyden, who also rode the Tour d’Afrique in 2019, sent us this piece about his experience cycling from Hanoi to Singapore on the 2022 Bamboo Road Cycling Tour.

“What do you miss most about home?” Tour Content Creator Sheelagh was taking a survey of the 2022 Bamboo Road riders at a recent lunch stop in Malaysia. I replied, “Being able to do things on my own schedule, which is something I cannot do if I hope to get to Singapore with this outfit.” A laugh and a wink to let her know that my response was not to be taken seriously. Sheelagh followed up with, “What do you not miss about home?” and I answered, “Anything that I have to do on a schedule, expend effort to cross off a to do list, or do solely out of guilt.”

I like to do things on my own time. Obviously. So what was a guy like me doing on a TDA tour, where the lifestyle has a military-like stranglehold on time? On the 4 out of 5 days that we ride our bicycles, overnight bags need to be ready for loading on to transport vehicles at a precise time, say 6:25, with breakfast to follow at 6:30. It’s ‘free time’ after that, between here and (fill in an obscure town in the TDA universe) around 130 kilometres and a varying degree of vertical away, but it involves peddling that distance with enough time left over to recover and be on time for the rider meeting at 5:45 and dinner at 6:00. After that: sleep, and repeat. Is that any kind of life for someone who resents having to set an alarm?

Counter intuitively, it is precisely this regimen that draws me to these tours. It is a thing of beauty, all of it: the absolutes, the GPS tracks and the purple line on the Garmin, tour leaders Andreas or Tallis barking “Rider Meeting!”, morning porridge and afternoon soup on the Tour d’Afrique. I have come to understand the irony that opting for this deliberate and controlled life in itself sets me free. I happily give myself over to the mission, and to the fledging society of nomads riding along with me. My other world, the schedules and lists included, soon falls away.

For this, TDA, I thank you. I thank you as well for enabling me to visit places which would take more effort than I might undertake on my own, certainly on my favourite, 2 wheeled mode of transport. I choose to travel by bicycle because the pace suits the way I like to unwrap new destinations. Since I also like to cover ground, I am happy to subscribe to the rigid demands of any tour that catapults me over huge swathes of geography in a time frame that makes sense: not so long that selling the house would be the practical thing to do, but long enough that when it all comes to an abrupt end and I’m left standing at the airport with my bike box and TDA regulation bag, I need to figure out how to live again. This happens, I know you know it does.

I thank you, Henry et al., for thinking “big”. The origin story of that first trip to Africa makes me think of the bold stroke it took for someone to eat that first lobster: the possibility was always there, but unattractive for many reasons. You understand that the biggest rewards come from taking on big challenges, even if they involve a bit of risk. Fashioning journeys that march across continents has to be hard work. That’s why trips in this vein are not easy to find. For those of us with a touch of wanderlust, your pioneering routes make dreams come true. More than the bold lines on maps, your itineraries are the backdrop for epic experiences and life changing discoveries, both in terms of places visited, and within ourselves.

On this version of the Bamboo Road, one stage listed in the mountains of Vietnam was out of sync with the rest of the program: 141 km with over 3200 meters of elevation gain. Take it as a measure of trust that no one balked. Surely there would be an explanation. All those back to back century rides in Botswana seemed undoable at one point, after all, and yet we achieved them. This would be no different. Except it was different. COVID restrictions had necessitated a new route to Cambodia that avoided Laos. The logistics were proving to be difficult. In what surely must be never ending tug of wars at TDA Central weighing ideal daily distances against suitable places to overnight – especially in cases of hotel tours – a decision had been made to throw this monster of a day at us.

What could not have been forecast was that on the day of reckoning, dangerous crosswinds and heavy rains made the 25 km climb to almost 3000 meters on sometimes rough gravel roads a real test. It was too big of an ask for many in the group, but it nevertheless became one of the most talked about days of our time in SE Asia. Even in defeat, TDA riders see value in a challenge. Thank you for pushing the envelope. It so happens that on this day of days I was able to push my limits and rise to the occasion. On a blustery, rain soaked mountaintop in a place I could barely imagine, I found an extra gear. For me, this is what it means to be alive. I’m looking forward to putting myself in your hands again soon. I’ll gladly clear my schedule.

RELATED
TOUR

Bamboo Road

Many of us have criss-crossed the countries of South-East Asia on a ‘shoestring’ over the years, returning home with fond memories. Now we invite...

Jill Cohen is the Medic and Sheelagh Daly is the Content Creator on the 2022 Bamboo Road. They send this joint report from Singapore at the end of the tour.

Over the course of the last two months, the participants of the 2022 Bamboo Road tour have ridden their way from Hanoi, Vietnam, to Singapore. They’ve referred to their time as “fantastic”, “exceptional” and “spectacular”. So what is it that makes the Bamboo Road such a grand experience?

Getting to know locals

Riders, Nick and Neil, making new friends in Vietnam

For one, it’s the roadside interactions you wouldn’t have any other way. There’s something unique about exploring countries by bicycle. Without a car or bus dividing you, you can experience the calls of “hello” and the eager waves as you pass by. When you hop off your bike at a coffee shop or corner store in Southeast Asia you’re regularly met with kindness, curiosity and conversation – even if neither of you speaks the other’s language! As rider Nick Beardow, from the U.K. recalls, “I love the reaction of the local people to us as we’re cycling through. The children want to say hello and when you say hello back they just giggle – you know, they’re so happy to have got a response from us. I love that so many of the locals want to engage and talk to us.” Riders have made many memories and special connections with the people they’ve met from Vietnam to Singapore.

The stunning landscapes

Staff member, Jill, riding in the stunning Cameron Highlands

The limestone karsts, the mountains, and the lush green jungles of Southeast Asia are truly something else. You may be rolling along palm trees and coastal views one day, and winding your way up a mountain pass the next. The architecture is also always changing. Riders witnessed the bungalows of Vietnam give way to the traditional houses on stilts across Cambodia and Thailand, and eventually the brightly painted homes of Malaysia. Plus, you never know when you might see a monkey, a monitor lizard, or a water buffalo pop out of the scenery. “Whether it’s riding along the banks of the Mekong or whether it’s in the hills of Vietnam, it’s just been amazing. It’s been a spectacular experience,” says Nick.

Creating a second family

Hanging out on the Bamboo Road

Spending two months on the road is a long time. It’s completely understandable if riders miss friends, family or pets back home. But what several of them have expressed is how important the connections they’ve built here have been. Megan Copas from Ohio explains her favourite part of bike touring is “the people that you meet and the family that you form.” She continues, “I feel like I kind of have a second family for these two months.” “People have been so friendly,” says Max Davis, from California. “It’s always my experience that I start not knowing people and you go through all this shared experience with people – suffering and challenges, but also being places, and you get to know them better.” The past two months have created many bonds that are sure to continue long after riders depart from Singapore.

Incomparable food experiences

Street food in Kuala Lumpur

Eating three meals and a million snacks a day with your fellow riders has also been a bonding experience, because trying new and unfamiliar foods can be a daring adventure in and of itself. Ever heard of hu tieu, murtabak, khao lam, durian, cendol, or jing reed? Many Bamboo Road riders had not until they embarked on tour, and together, they sampled and shared their reactions to some wildly different flavours, textures, and combinations of food. Fragrant and spicy noodle soup for breakfast in Vietnam? Sure! Red beans in your coconut and palm sugar dessert in Malaysia? Why not.

Food has also been a way to connect riders with our local support staff, as our van drivers and guides would proudly introduce them to their favourite dishes and traditional meals. Riders could then ask questions and talk about how things are prepared, the cultural significance of a certain dinner, the agriculture, and how food factors into local family life. These conversations made eating our way across Southeast Asia not only delicious and interesting, but also meaningful.

From beautiful scenery, to special personal connections, and delicious food, the 2022 Bamboo Road has been exactly as the riders described: fantastic, exceptional and spectacular. What a pleasure, to experience Southeast Asia with this lovely group of riders. It’s exciting to think about who might embark on the adventure next!

RELATED
TOUR

Bamboo Road

Many of us have criss-crossed the countries of South-East Asia on a ‘shoestring’ over the years, returning home with fond memories. Now we invite...

Jill Cohen is the Medic on the 2022 Bamboo Road. She shares this blog about the poetry and chaos of traffic in Southeast Asia.

There’s a certain poetry to the chaotic weave of traffic in Southeast Asia. Streets are packed with scooters, cars, trucks, trailers, motorcycles, buses, tuk-tuks, and bicycles moving in all directions, without any appreciable gaps between them. Horns honk and engines rumble loudly. Sometimes there are crosswalks, definitive lanes, signs, and traffic lights, but they seem to function as mere suggestions. And pedestrians amble amongst this lawless mix with a casual and nonchalant indifference that’s positively mystifying. That’s the chaos.

At first it’s hard for anyone with Western sensibilities to believe that any of it works, and at times of course it doesn’t. Accidents and collisions happen. But millions of vehicles and people go unscathed from point A to point B in Southeast Asia every day, because there actually is an order and a system and a set of rules in play that keep those in transit flowing along harmoniously and safely. That’s the poetry.

All of this was unfamiliar, though, when the 2022 TDA Bamboo Road riders landed in Vietnam two months ago to begin their tour. At that time, riding a bicycle across Southeast Asia in what appeared to be a disorderly mess was a daunting proposition. However, with open minds, keen observation skills, and courage, riders quickly caught on to the rules of the road for navigating and surviving Southeast Asian traffic. Here’s what’s been gleaned so far:

1. Make no sudden moves or sharp direction changes.

Riders lined up amongst the scooters in Phnom Penh, Cambodia

Your comrades in traffic have their eye on your trajectory, and they are counting on you to continue it steadily. So, do just that. Enter the mix gradually but confidently, and keep going in a predictable fashion. This way, others can plot their pace and their move to pass you, go around you, or allow you to turn in front of them.

2. Allow others to turn in front of you as well.

It’s not up to those entering your lane to look and see if it’s okay to proceed. When you see someone coming, it’s up to you to slow down and welcome them onto the road. Right of way? Not a thing here. Everyone takes turns.

>>Related Post: Cycling In India

3. Speaking of turns…

Scooters raring to go in Hue, Vietnam

Those who need to turn onto the opposite side of the road will often do the “lane-borrow.” This move is a little bit scary. It looks as though a vehicle is heading straight for you, and that’s because it is. But it’s temporary. Drivers just borrow the oncoming lane for a moment until they can get across. Your job in this situation is to slow down and give them space to do it.

4. A horn honk is not necessarily a bad thing.

Many trucks and buses will give cyclists a little “meep-beep” as a friendly warning that they’re about to pass. It doesn’t mean they’re mad. Rather it means, “Hi, I’m much bigger than you and don’t want to have an incident. Just making sure you know I’m here, and you stay over there while I zoom on by.”

5. If you need to pass someone or swing wide to avoid a pothole, communicate it to those around you.

Store on a scooter in Cambodia

When on a quiet road, give your bell a little “ding ding!” The woman saddled with an entire restaurant on her slow-moving scooter will keep sputtering along on track, appreciative and glad to know you’re there. And when on a loud and busy road, give a big wave with your arm if you change course. The wave doesn’t have to convey any specific message. The extra visible motion just serves as a cue that you exist, and nearby drivers should factor in that a slightly different move is forthcoming. A few pedestrians in Vietnam even cross the road with one arm straight up in the air, which acts as an uncanny protective force field. Traffic notices and swims around them.

6. Think of the traffic as an ocean and you’re a snorkeler swimming through the coral reef.

The mix of cars, trucks, tuk-tuks and scooters in Phnom Penh, Cambodia

There are schools of fish, giant creatures, and little zippy things in motion everywhere, but when was the last time you collided with a fish? If you dive in and swim nicely, they will all flow around you.

As tour has progressed, the Bamboo Road riders have not only learned to navigate and survive traffic in Southeast Asia, but also appreciate, embrace, and enjoy it. They’ve expressed surprise and delight in adapting to streets that feel more participatory and courteous than those back home, however initially baffling. Traffic only felt uncomfortable until they took some time to understand it and become part of the flow. Happily, it’s been more poetry than chaos ever since.

RELATED
TOUR

Bamboo Road

Many of us have criss-crossed the countries of South-East Asia on a ‘shoestring’ over the years, returning home with fond memories. Now we invite...

Sheelagh Daly is the Content Creator on the 2022 Bamboo Road Cycling Tour. She sends this report from Malaysia.

Our 2022 Bamboo Road riders are an incredibly kind, upbeat, strong and well-travelled crew. I asked some of them five rapid-fire questions about bike touring and travelling and they provided delightful answers. Here are the results.

1. What do you miss most from back home?

Understandably, after being on the road for over a month, many people missed family, loved ones and pets back home. And equally understandably, after staying in a different hotel nearly every night, the second most common answer was “my bed.” But mostly riders expressed there isn’t much they’re missing and are simply happy to be out exploring on their bikes.

2. What do you not miss from home?

For many, weather was the least-missed aspect from home – namely “snow,” “rain,” and “cold.” With temperatures hovering in the 25-32C (78-90F) range while we’ve been in Southeast Asia, it’s certainly quite a change from many of our hometowns! Also on the list of less-enjoyed aspects from home were emails, TV and the routine of going to work every day. Erika Lindquist from California, USA, notes, “at home I see lots of the same things. The scenery here is way different and better.”

3. What is your favourite cycling snack?

We all know how important fuelling up is. And the right snacks are key! Riders shared their favourites, in case you need any inspiration. For some it’s the comfort foods of home such as peanut butter-filled pretzels, Doritos, Nutella, or homemade energy bites. For others it was more recent discoveries like sticky rice, salty chips in creative flavours, or bubble tea from the shops they pass along the route. For Rick Harwood from Seattle, it’s “Ice cream. Ice cream. Ice cream.” I think that’s one most cyclists are happy to find on the road! And Katy from Minnesota’s favourite snack? “Anything and everything.” Well said Katy!

4. What song is most likely to get stuck in your head on the bike?

There were a number of great tunes that quickly came to mind for riders when asked this. “Beautiful Day” and “I Will Follow” by U2, “Stuck on You” by Lionel Richie, and “Don’t Rain On My Parade” by Barbra Streisand, just to name a few. For Helmut Schuett, from Germany, it was, rather appropriately, “Bicycle Race” by Queen. And for a couple of folks it was “Here Comes the Sun” by The Beatles. This is not surprising given that a group of riders and staff bravely came forward to sing it at Karaoke one night in Thailand!

5. What is your favourite thing about bike touring?

This question elicited more beautiful answers than there is room for in this post. Some mentioned the opportunity to experience new cultures and countries, while what came to mind for others was the challenge and physical aspect of it. For Gizele Price from Ontario, Canada, it’s the fact that “you get into a zone. It’s just zen. Pure zen. Simplicity.” For Mayumi Stroy from California, USA, it’s “being around your people. Everyone gets you. And they’re all there to help each other, to pull you.” And for John Benoit from Colorado, it’s “to experience the world at the absolute perfect pace. Not too fast, not too slow, it’s just perfect.”

That’s what came to mind for some of our 2022 Bamboo Road riders, but don’t be shy… we want to hear from you! Let us know your answers in the comments below.

RELATED
TOUR

Bamboo Road

Many of us have criss-crossed the countries of South-East Asia on a ‘shoestring’ over the years, returning home with fond memories. Now we invite...

Sheelagh Daly is the Content Creator on the 2022 Bamboo Road Cycling Tour. She sends this report from southern Thailand highlighting the ingenuity, resourcefulness and unique abilities of our staff to solve unexpected problems quickly.

When things don’t go as planned on tour, some creative thinking is required. After spending a month riding through Vietnam and Cambodia on the 2022 Bamboo Road, it seemed rider Karl Siebert wouldn’t be able to continue on through Thailand and Malaysia as planned. “I had a medical incident,” explains Karl “that meant that I couldn’t cycle anymore. But because of the brilliance and left-field thinking of the Tour Leader, Andreas, and the bike mechanic, Max, they’ve come up with the perfect solution. They said, ‘if you can’t ride a normal bike, what about an e-bike?’ They’re going to convert my normal bicycle into an e-bicycle, and I’ll be able to continue the tour.”

DETERMINING COMPATIBILITY

Removing the old crankset

Once Karl got the go-ahead from his doctor, Andreas and Max needed to ensure converting a Surly Long Haul Trucker into an e-bike, while in Thailand, would be possible. “It helps that [Karl] is on a steel frame, which will generally take bolts for the heavy battery better,” says Andreas. “And he has lots of clearance for the motor itself because it’s a standard frame, and it’s a threaded bottom bracket shell, which is required. If it were a carbon frame or a press-fit bottom bracket, it wouldn’t be possible. And also because he’s not going to get a throttle on the bike, it doesn’t need as many things for the brake sensors, which you would require if you had throttle.”

HICCUPS IN THE PLAN

Mechanic Max installing the new motor

Converting a standard bicycle into an e-bike is something Max has done over a hundred times. But, it’s a more difficult plan to execute with a small backpack of tools on the front porch of a hotel in Thailand, rather than in a bike shop back home. The first step was to track down the necessary motor and battery. Andreas found one online from a bike shop in Bangkok that could be transported by bus to the town of Ranong, where the tour was on a rest day. The goods were in hand, but would it be possible to install them? As the conversion process began, Max discovered the mounting points on the downtube weren’t in the needed position to hold the battery in place. So it was determined instead that the battery would go on the rear rack. In order to do so though, a drill was required. One was kindly loaned by the hotel’s mechanic team, but it didn’t have the right size drill bits. After a run to the local hardware store, the battery was securely installed onto the rear rack.

BACK ON THE ROAD

Max walking Karl through the e-bike settings

Following a good day’s work, all the necessary components were installed, and Karl’s traditional touring bike had made the transition into an e-bike. “It’s brilliant,” says Karl. “It’s something I never would have thought of. It’s out of left-field and I’m super excited and really happy. Really incredibly happy that I can continue the trip. It’s just the best news.” It’s the first time a conversion like this has been done on a bike in the middle of a TDA tour, so the setup will continue to be monitored in the coming days and weeks. And of course it’s of the utmost importance that Karl continue to feel healthy, safe and well. But we’re hopeful that a little creativity, a skilled mechanic, and a hint of good luck, will keep Karl on route to Singapore.

RELATED
TOUR

Bamboo Road

Many of us have criss-crossed the countries of South-East Asia on a ‘shoestring’ over the years, returning home with fond memories. Now we invite...

Sheelagh Daly is the Content Creator on the 2022 Bamboo Road Cycling Tour. She sends this report from Bangkok, Thailand.

The past 3 1/2 weeks have taken the Bamboo Road 2022 riders through the mountain passes, coastal breezes, and limestone karst formations of Vietnam, as well as the markets and houses on stilts along the Mekong River in Cambodia. It’s been a beautiful section of the tour, and riders finish the day with big smiles and experiences to share around the table at dinner. But any bike tour also comes with challenges. Be it heat, rain, long distances, or bumpy roads, there are a variety of circumstances that can make a riding day difficult. However, the right preparation, support, and mindset can make all the difference. The Bamboo Road 2022 riders have been remarkable in their ability to stay positive no matter what the day throws at them. Here, they share some of the strategies that keep them feeling their best.

1. Bring the right gear

Gonzolo, ready for the day’s ride

The gear you choose can make or break your bike tour. It’s difficult to stay positive when you’re constantly getting flats, experiencing mechanical issues, or riding a bike that’s unsuitable for the terrain. That’s why Gonzalo Pastor, one of the riders on Bamboo Road 2022, was careful in selecting a bike that would be the right fit for what he planned to do. He explains, “I’ve noticed that people that do not bring the right bike have problems. So you have to be attentive to the kind of bike you need to bring.” To support this process, TDA sends out bulletins with the recommended bike specifications and a suggested packing list before each tour. Never hesitate to reach out if you have questions about which gear is right for you and your tour!

2. Use your supports

Nicholas Beardow smiling his way up a challenging climb

Training your body and mind before a tour by building up your cycling capacity will help ensure you don’t feel too overwhelmed during the first days of the tour. Another rider, Nicholas Beardow explains, “make sure you’re fit enough to do it, because it can be hard, and when it’s hard, your positivity can drop a little bit when you’re having a bad day.” But he also points out that there are options when needed. “The beauty about TDA is you can jump in the van,” notes Nick. “Either you can go to lunch in the van, or you can jump in the van at lunch time, or you can get them to pick you up if you’re having a bad day, you’re feeling out of sorts, you’re not enjoying it.” This is an important point, because it really is about enjoying the experience. You’ll be challenged on a bike tour no matter what, but if it ever feels like too much, there are supports in place so that you can keep enjoying your day. “That’s the beauty,” says Nick. “It’s not a race. I wouldn’t do it if it were a race. And it’s not an ego thing about proving that you can do the whole thing. It’s about seeing the world on a bicycle, and what better way is there to see a country than on a bicycle.”

3. Fuel yourself adequately

Lunch stop refuel in Vietnam

Adequate food and hydration are absolutely crucial to feeling well and staying positive on a bike tour. This was Gonzalo’s first long-distance bike tour, and he notes how crucial it has been to drink enough water. He also mentions that, “when I put electrolytes in my water, it really helped me.” On TDA tours, a lunch break and water refill station are always provided partway through the day’s ride. Route notes also include ‘coke stops’ where riders can pause to top up on snacks and drinks along the way. Using these tools to fuel your body is key for maintaining your physical strength and optimistic mindset.

>>Related Post: How To Thrive On Group Cycling Adventures

4. Take breaks

Max cycling the hills of Vietnam

Max Davis, a Bamboo Road rider from California, has done several shorter bike tours, but this was his first one for longer than 2 weeks. How did he manage to stay positive on some of the longer and more challenging rides of the tour? “I stop a lot,” says Max. “I enjoy taking photos and looking at things, so that’s a good break.” Another tactic he uses: “I set little milestones for myself. When it’s been a tough day, I’m like, ‘ok, I’ll go one more hour and then I’ll stop and take a break and do something.’ And then I’ll stop and get off the bike and stretch. Stopping and walking around in little shops is a great break.” This is an excellent strategy. After all, we aren’t out on our bikes in a new place just to get from point A to B. We’re there to enjoy and explore. Taking regular breaks helps our minds stay positive and our bodies feel refreshed.

5. Find gratitude even in the harder moments

Riders pitching in to fix a flat

Nicholas has completed 10 Ironman races, so he’s no stranger to powering through tough riding days. But even he has his moments. “The bumpy roads, when my backside is bumping up and down on the saddle, that’s the only time I’m not positive, but it’s only internally not positive.” In those moments though, he finds the gratitude in knowing, “I’d still rather be doing that than anything else.”

Although bike touring has its challenging moments, it truly is one of a kind. As Max notes, “in a car you’re separated and you don’t see things as much. On foot you just can’t go very far, so you have to pick one area. On a bike, you get that nice hybrid of seeing and experiencing everything around you, but you can actually see a bunch of different parts.”

Bicycle travel is unique in what you’re able to see and experience, and it challenges you both physically and mentally. By preparing yourself with the right equipment, listening to and fuelling your body, using available supports, and digging deep for an extra hit of gratitude, you can have a beautiful and positive bike touring experience.

RELATED
TOUR

Bamboo Road

Many of us have criss-crossed the countries of South-East Asia on a ‘shoestring’ over the years, returning home with fond memories. Now we invite...

Sheelagh Daly is the Content Creator on the 2022 Bamboo Road Cycling Tour. She sends her first report from Vietnam.

Just over a week ago, the riders and staff of the 2022 Bamboo Road arrived in Vietnam’s capital, Hanoi. The city can be intimidating for a cyclist of any experience level. It’s a bustling centre that more than 8 million people (and 4.9 million scooters and motorbikes!) call home. This means the streets are pretty packed with cars, trucks, scooters, pedestrians, cyclists, and more.

Rider meeting in Hanoi

After meeting the staff and their fellow riders, 28 intrepid TDA travellers headed out across Vietnam on their two-wheeled steeds towards Cambodia, then Thailand, then Malaysia, and eventually Singapore.

Erika at the start line in Hanoi

Erika Lindquist is a rider from the United States who is cycling the 2022 Bamboo Road with her partner. This is their third tour with TDA and their 5th tour overall, having done both the Great Divide and the Pacific Coast previously on their own. So what drew them to journey across the world to take part in Bamboo Road? “Both of us have been to many different countries but we’ve never been to Southeast Asia. We always wanted to go to Thailand, and Vietnam sounded very interesting. And so this allowed us to tour it on a bike, which we love. And we love going with TDA because we totally trust all their trips.”

Erika explained that when she first arrived in Hanoi, she was feeling a little scared trying to cross the busy streets on foot and wondered to herself, “How am I going to bike this?” But she quickly found, as many riders have, that things feel quite smooth and natural on Vietnam’s roads once you get used to them. “Everybody seems to give everybody some space,” observes Erika. “Out on the country roads, or even on the highways, people seem like they’ve been super respectful. I feel safer riding here than I do in the U.S. I’ve been pleasantly surprised.”

The first week of riding brought other joys and surprises as well, like the people riders have met along the way. “The kids were waving, and we stopped at a few little side stands to buy ice creams” explains Erika. “We couldn’t communicate with words with the people, but they’re super friendly and really interested in understanding what we’re doing. They were just super nice.”

Meeting the locals

In addition to warm welcomes and friendly ‘hellos’, the first days in Vietnam offered delicious food. Between the satiating effect of a hot bowl of Phở, and the uplifting kick of fresh fruits like papaya, pomelo, coconut, and watermelon – riders were well-fuelled to tackle any cycling challenge that came their way. Although there were understandably some initial nerves, those feelings quickly gave way to confidence, comfort, and ultimately, excitement for what lies ahead.

The 2022 Bamboo Road is off to a great start!

RELATED
TOUR

Bamboo Road

Many of us have criss-crossed the countries of South-East Asia on a ‘shoestring’ over the years, returning home with fond memories. Now we invite...

Over the years TDA has had to adjust many routes that we run due to circumstances in the countries where we operate. Since COVID these route alterations have accelerated, as travel and border restrictions in some parts of the world increased. While there is always something lost in changing a route, there is as much gained, and as the tour planners it is an exciting time to see the new possibilities unfold. For the 2022 Bamboo Road tour, due to land border restrictions in Laos and Thailand, we have adjusted the tour to avoid Laos, which means more time in Vietnam, the highlights of which are shown below. We have also organized the tour so that after spending our well earned rest days in Siem Reap exploring Angkor Wat, the tour will take the short flight to Bangkok to restart there.

>>Dates, details and prices for the 2022 Bamboo Road

We are very excited for the new sights and experiences we will have on the updated Bamboo Road route, and hope you can join us on our journey through South East Asia.

Ho Chi Minh Trail

Vietnam’s QL15, better known as the Ho Chi Minh Trail

Riders will enjoy cycling along this historic route that takes them through some of Vietnam’s most beautiful mountain scenery. Famous for its importance in supplying North Vietnam’s troops in the south during the Indo-China war in the 1960’s and 1970’s, it was subject to some of the heaviest air bombardments in history, attacks that failed to stop the supplies from making their way south. Today, however, the cyclists will only encounter herds of goats and cows and friendly villagers along the winding road. There are, gulp, plans to replace this peaceful 2 lane highway with an 8 lane freeway in the near future so ride this beautiful road while you can!

Hué

East Gate (Hien Nhon Gate)

The new route takes the riders into the ancient Imperial capital of Hué, once home to the Kings of the Nguyen Dynasty. This  laid back city features tree-lined boulevards and a wonderfully relaxed setting along the banks of the Perfume River. The city streets are sprinkled with Buddhist monasteries, gorgeous pagodas, French colonial architecture and bustling markets. Besides its incredible history, Hué is also famous for its food. The cyclists can enjoy trying local delicacies like Com Hen which is a delicious mixture of rice, boiled mussels, star fruit, fish sauce, cabbage, onion, pepper, peanut, chilies and is topped with a variety of herbs.

Hoi An

Hoi An at sunset

Hoi An’s old town is a stunning UNESCO World Heritage Site, a beautifully preserved example of an ancient fishing port. The amazing architecture reflects its 2000 year history, mixing the influences of the Hindu Cham peoples with that of Arab traders, Chinese merchants and local Vietnamese culture. Wandering through the old town’s narrow, winding streets in the evening, the riders can visit the iconic Japanese Bridge, take a sunset cruise on the Thu Bon River or sample the local specialty Cau Lao, a noodle dish whose distinctive brown noodles are coloured and flavoured with lye water, at a roadside stall.

Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park

World’s Largest Cave – Han Son Doong

This National Park is another UNESCO World Heritage Site, famous for it limestone karst mountains and incredible underground cave system, estimated to contain over 300 caverns. The Han Son Doong cave, only discovered in 2009, is the largest in the world but the entire area is still being explored so who knows what else is down there! On the surface, the riders can hike along trails meandering through the lush tropical forests, keeping a keen eye out for some of the local wildlife – black bears, tigers and elephants.

For the revised Bamboo Road schedule, sections and entry fees, please visit our website.

RELATED
TOUR

Bamboo Road

Many of us have criss-crossed the countries of South-East Asia on a ‘shoestring’ over the years, returning home with fond memories. Now we invite...

Live viewing double feature of ‘Cycling the Trans-Himalaya’ and ‘Cycling the Bamboo Road’.

Longtime TDAer Shanny Hill and filmmakers Nirmika Athalye and Esen Küçüktütüncü will be at the ready on their keyboards to answer your questions in realtime as we all watch the films together. We hope you will join us!

The screening will be on Friday, July 10th at 10:00am Eastern time (Toronto / New York) on YouTube. If you would like to RSVP to the facebook event, click here. Otherwise simply find the direct links to the YouTube pages below.

The first video will start at 10:00am, followed by a short break, and the second will begin at 10:15am. You will have to click to the 2nd link at that time to continue watching.

10:00am – Cycling the Trans-Himalaya:
https://youtu.be/Z_CPLQGxfDg

10:15am – Cycling the Bamboo Road:
https://youtu.be/MIXmP9S-JKI

RELATED
TOUR

RELATED
TOUR

Bamboo Road

Many of us have criss-crossed the countries of South-East Asia on a ‘shoestring’ over the years, returning home with fond memories. Now we invite...

Depending on how you view it, 3 months might seem like a relatively short or an incredibly long period of time. It is a quarter of a year so you have another 9 months to fulfill your New Year’s resolutions. It is three rent payments or pay cheques, 90 sunrises and sunsets and 270 meals… but that may vary if you are into intermittent fasting. Three months was the time it took Columbus to sail to America as well as the time the first artificial satellite placed into orbit around Earth lasted. Sadly, it is also the average amount of time it takes you to unpack once moving into a new house (but don’t worry we’ve all been there).

We started cycling on September 22, 2019 in Taipei and finished on December 15, 2019 in Singapore. During that time we crossed seven borders, including one where I was refused entry and had to fly to Bangkok directly. Fun times! We crossed the Tropic of Cancer twice during our loop in Taiwan and again in Guangzhou, China. We cycled a total of 7,000 km and stayed in 63 different hotels. There were days where we pedalled through pouring rain and there were days where we baked under the sun. Who would have known that one could make such good friends in 3 months, or learn how to say hello/thank you/goodbye in 7 different languages, develop some awesome tan lines and develop an even deeper love of peanut butter? You could describe the last 3 months in a lot of ways but one thing that cannot be said is that it was uneventful.

The reality of cycling non-stop for three months is challenging in many ways but the biggest might be the birth of an alternative existence. You see new places, meet new people and eat new food everyday. Your senses are so stimulated that it is hard to keep up with what’s going on at home. I, personally, experienced FOMO (Fear Of Missing Out) for the first few weeks of the tour, checking the news everyday and trying to keep up with the world. Then slowly and inevitably, I found myself drifting away from that reality.

There is so much that is going on that is worrisome: protests in Hong Kong, blackouts in Iran, the state of emergency in Chile, the worsening air pollution in India and much more. It is hard not to be pessimistic and feel hopeless. There are, however, still good things happening in this world, things that restore our faith in humanity, things that get overlooked when the media is filled with distressing information.

I’ve made a list of 10 good things that happened in 2019 because in many ways it was a beautiful year.

1. The population of humpback whales in the South Atlantic region now number 24,900 which is almost 93% of their population size before they were hunted to the brink of extinction.

2. Ethiopia broke the world record for tree planting. They planted 353 million trees in one day.

3. The Netherlands became the first country in the world to eliminate all stray dogs, not by euthanasia, but through education, free veterinary care and re-homing.

4. South Africa increased its proportion of protected waters from 0.4% to 5.4% and Belize doubled the size of ocean reserves around the world’s second largest barrier reef.

5. UNESCO said that 19 African countries reached gender parity (equal number of boys and girls) in primary education in the past decade.

6. Taiwan became the first Asian country to legalize same sex marriage.

7. Sudan’s dictatorship was overthrown after months of protests this year. Its leaders signed a landmark deal for a transition to civilian government and repealed a series of laws used to regulate women’s behaviour under the former president.

8. The world’s largest multilateral financial institution, The European Investment Bank, agreed to stop all financing for fossil fuels, and committed to investing half of its entire annual outlay — not just its energy budget — on climate action and sustainability by 2025.

9. Thailand announced in November that it would phase out microbeads, cap seals and oxo-degradable plastics by the end of the year, and will ban all plastic bags, cups, straws and styrofoam by 2022.

10. In March, the European Union announced that plastic cutlery, plates, straws, cotton buds, balloons, food containers and polystyrene cups would no longer be allowed by 2021.

Happy New Year everyone!

It’s hard not to think of abstract or spiritual concepts when there are temples every 5 kms along your cycling route. This has certainly been the case for us on the 2019 Bamboo Road for the last 2 months. To be honest, like everything in life, the excitement and fascination about the intricate details of the paintings or the details of the fine carving in the endless shrines starts to become normal, a part of the routine. At first, it makes you sad to realize that even in a place like Southeast Asia, the childish curiosity and amazement inside you slowly fades away.

It happens not only with the things around you but also impacts the thing that brought you here in the first place, riding your bike. However, even on the most mundane bike ride with strong headwinds or bouts of rain, you can always pull in for a coke stop, discover the neighbourhood’s favourite tire shop and be delighted by the company of old grandpas and newborn babies. Maybe you’ll see the flagging for the lunch spot from afar and when you get there you see local boys have pulled in on their bikes, the tires held on by strings. Once again you are reminded why you wanted ride your bike for 63 days in Southeast Asia.

The other day we had a heated argument about where we had eaten off that massive spinning dinner table that was able to serve all 22 of us. Even trying to recall an evening as remarkable as that was a challenge … we just weren’t sure if it was that little town in East Taiwan or the huge hotel in the middle of nowhere in China or maybe just after crossing to Vietnam (It turned out to be in Shangsi, China).

The point is that border crossings become more about losing empty space on your passport than having a complete transition to a new environment. Maybe it is because you are out there, day after day, passing through the villages that maybe look somewhat different or have remarkable names. In the end, however, we are always met with the same warm attitude and welcoming smiles from the locals. And that just never gets old.

RELATED
TOUR

Bamboo Road

Many of us have criss-crossed the countries of South-East Asia on a ‘shoestring’ over the years, returning home with fond memories. Now we invite...

On November 3, 2019, I set off for a day of riding sweep duty. Leaving Kratie, Cambodia we were headed 125 kilometres south to the city of Kampong Cham. Now working my third TDA tour, the Bamboo Road, sweeping has become a favourite job of mine. Across East and West Africa and now through Southeast Asia, no day is ever quite the same – though I seem to have gotten into a good rhythm as the slowest rider of every tour. As soon as I started pedalling, admiring the new country I was in, it dawned on me: my bike Isabella and I have cycled in 25 countries together… and counting.

When I was 20 years old, I called my parents and told them that I would be riding my bike from Seattle to San Francisco that summer. Besides their immediate questions concerning my safety, motivation and ability to do such a thing, they were wondering what kind of bike I would ride. I didn’t actually own a bike – which would be the first hurdle in riding the Pacific Coast Highway. Despite their lingering concerns, they gave me my first touring bike for my 21st birthday. She was sleek and fast (enough), and would successfully carry me over 1,600 kilometres from my home to the infamous Golden Gate Bridge.

Tanzania by bike

Fast forward 5 years and nearly 20,000 kilometres.  My bike hasn’t just been a way to exercise or the way I commute, it has been my dearest traveling companion. In the last two years alone, we have faced the sand swept winds of the Sahara Desert in Egypt and Sudan, and then again in Mauritania. I have pushed my bike, caked in red mud, through the back roads of Tanzania and Guinea. We have climbed thousands of metres together in Morocco, Ethiopia, Namibia, and China. From the typhoons of Taiwan to the speed bumps of Ivory Coast, Isabella has been the steel support under my wings.

Cycling Cairo to Cape Town/Cycling Southern China

Although it isn’t exactly the bike I had named when I first got her (new chain, wheels, drive train, derailleur, brakes, etc.), I’ve learned that’s not really what matters. The time I have spent atop my well worn leather saddle has been some of the best of my life. The countless hours riding alone through the wide open desert or the densely variegated jungle have allowed me the time and space to think about my problems, and to come up with solutions. I’ve been able to reflect on poetry and books I’ve read, and remember conversations I’ve had and what they meant to me.

Gifts of the Sahara

It has also given me the space to challenge myself, to surprise myself, and most importantly, to fail. Your bicycle can be your best friend or your worst enemy  but until you realize that what you are doing and where you are going, it has nothing to do with your bicycle, but with your own internal desire to go somewhere and do something. I ride my bike because it is time best spent with myself. On a good day – the rhythm, the intensity, and the quiet hum are soothing reminders of my connection to my surroundings and the piece of metal that carries me across these continents. On a bad day – the inconsistency, the effort, the shake of corrugated ruts are there to teach me patience with myself and the world around me.

Meeting the locals in Sudan

The places I have gotten to ride with TDA have wildly exceeded my expectations – the people I have met, the hills I have been able to climb, and the way in which I have learned to perceive the world around me. If you’ve never cycled in completely adverse conditions (including but not limited to heat, wind, mountains, typhoons, etc.), I’d recommend you grab a bike, any bike, and give it a go. Fair warning though: you’re going to learn a lot about this beautiful planet and even more about yourself.

Legzira Beach Arch, Morocco

For  most of us, living in the 21st century means having multiple deadlines to meet, people to see, things to do and responsibilities to fulfill. Multi-tasking is not a skill anymore, it’s a life requirement. Be it on a personal level or on the scale of big cities that we live in, when we start to think about the amount of things that we need to do on a daily basis or that need to happen at the same time, we can get easily overwhelmed and fascinated by how in harmony things actually are.

Let’s use the example of you walking. You’ve been doing this for years now (actually early humans¹ have been doing this for 6 million years), without any conscious thought. But to just take a single step requires all of your senses to be activated and to send information to your cerebral neocortex to activate 200 bones and 600 muscles.

Although this information might seem irrelevant with regards to cycling through China, when you are on the side of the road trying to pedal through a rural village while an electric scooter silently passes by you every second or two, you begin to realize the true scale of the country you are in. You are in the most populated country on the planet (1.4 billion). Its 9,600,000 square kilometres make it the third biggest country in the world. How is a country of this size and with this many people able to function?

“It’s all about balance” our local lunch van driver says, using a translation app that seems to do a pretty good job since we don’t have access to any Google related apps here. Balance. Through the hustle and bustle, China has that.

Stuffed with skyscrapers and stores of every kind, not one street is deserted. People of all ages, in groups or alone, are dancing to the beat coming from a loud speaker or just looking at the river flowing through the city, listening to an erhu². We move from one city to the next, filling our tummies with wholesome hot pots, fried rice and all sorts of sautéed vegetables.

But the next day we wake up and hit the road to cycle through endless rice fields and rural villages. The mountains unfold as we pedal on our way. But there is no one, not a single person, that can be seen on those vast fields and mountain hills. You are at peace – as if you are the only one on earth.

Every day on this section, Mao & Tao, seemed to represent the cosmic balance of yin and yang. The duality that we saw reminded us how seemingly opposite or contrary forces may actually be complementary, interconnected and interdependent.

¹ Sahelanthropus
² A two-stringed bowed musical instrument, more specifically a spike fiddle, which may also be called a Southern Fiddle, and sometimes known in the Western world as the Chinese violin or a Chinese two-stringed fiddle

Imagine you are walking along the the side of the road – any road, anywhere on earth. On the horizon you spot this woman with a helmet, making her way towards you, slowly revealing the bike that she’s riding, conquering the roads. The chances are good that the woman will be Lani Schultz. She has been all over the world and she did most of it on a bike. Don’t let her appearance deceive you, she has been on 11 TDA Global Cycling tours and isn’t finished yet. Next year she’ll do the Journey to the East from Seoul to Tokyo and is already excited about Korea and Japan. As we eat, sharing our love for mochi balls (traditional Japanese rice dough enriched with spices), she tells me her plans for the future.

But wait a minute, how did it all even start?

Originally from Indonesia, Lani moved to Canada in 1977. She started cycling in 2008 and though she loved it, she never considered herself a serious cyclist. A few occasional weekend rides were more than enough for her. It was ın 2008, however, that a young man visited her shop and told her about a cycling tour he did across Canada. “The way he talked about it” she says “I didn’t know one could travel like that, I was so hooked”. So she booked her first cycling trip at the age of 59 and enjoyed it so much that she hasn’t stopped pedalling since. In 2010 she did the Tour d’Afrique from Cairo to Cape Town. “I wasn’t one of the fast ones but I sure rode as much as them.”

That was not the only tour she did that year. Immediately after that she took off to participate in Silk Route, cycling from Turkey to Uzbekistan via Georgia, Azerbaijan and Turkmenistan. As soon as that was done she went on to do the Amber Route, a tour from Russia to Italy which eventually grew to become the Trans-Europa. When it was time to go back home, she had been away for 8 months and 8 days. When she told this to her fellow riders, they were all shocked. Apparently a local driver said “You are away from home for so long! If you were my wife I would have divorced you.” Of course, Lani’s answer was “If you were my husband I would have left you a long time ago.”

RELATED
TOUR

Bamboo Road

Many of us have criss-crossed the countries of South-East Asia on a ‘shoestring’ over the years, returning home with fond memories. Now we invite...

She rode the Bamboo Road back in 2011 but returned this year to ride the new Taiwan Coastal Loop section. As a woman of Asian heritage she was also looking for an excuse to come back to Asia. Living near the university in Victoria, she attended a few Chinese language classes and became our part-time translator at coke stops or in temples. After leaving Taiwan, her impression of it is “busy, but regulated.” With it endless traffic lights and separate lanes for scooters, it looks chaotic from the outside but it actually flows quite smoothly.

“Cycling is really interesting, because you can cover the distance and yet you’re slow enough to enjoy. The car is too fast and walking just doesn’t make it.”

Being the oldest rider on the tour, with a young soul and never ending smile, she brought endless joy to our route around Taiwan. I can assure the 2020 Journey to the East riders that they’ll have an inspirational fellow rider cycling with them.

The Bamboo Road got underway this past Sunday. Here is the first report written by Assistant Tour Leader Sophie DeGroot before they left Taipei. Follow along as they progress through Taiwan, China and SE Asia in the coming months. You can follow theim on Instagram using #tdabambooroad

For the first time in its history, the Bamboo Road Cycling Tour will begin in Taiwan. With nearly two weeks and over 1,000 kilometres to cycle, we will pedal past ancient temples, bamboo forests, national parks and natural hot springs. Though Taiwan is an island 4 times smaller than the US state of Florida, it boasts a population of over 23 million people and over 2500 mm of rain per year. This creates a special recipe that creates a diverse and unique culture to immerse ourselves in, while also enjoying the beauty of the ecosystems that thrive on wet weather. Spending our first few days in Taiwan we have experienced the hustle and bustle of mopeds and the beautiful chaos of the night markets, but we are all looking forward to experiencing the quieter countryside and beauty of the national parks.

Although TDA has never operated in Taiwan before, the bicycle has long been woven into the country’s history and culture. Since the mid-1900’s, the country has been manufacturing bicycles and bicycle parts for the world market. In the last 20 years, after China became a strong competitor in the low-end market, Taiwan began to focus on mid and high-end products. Companies like Giant, Trek, Schwinn, Raleigh, Cannondale, and 729 other manufacturers use factories in Taiwan to produce their two-wheeled products. Their bikes are of high quality and are available world-wide.

In an economy largely dependent on bicycle sales, I was surprised to see relatively few bicycles roaming the busy streets of Taipei. The only lycra-clad cyclists we saw were those out on Sunday morning enjoying the quiet streets that comprise Cycling Route No. 1, just one of the many government sanctioned bike routes around the island. Though the influence of the bicycle industry may not be evident in the number of daily cyclists on the streets, it is wildly clear when you take some time to explore the infrastructure that was built just for bikes. A bright orange bike share can be found strategically around the city and folding bikes with 20-inch wheels are common for daily commuters – wise solutions for a city where restaurants, apartments, and parking spaces are all tightly packed next to one another.

But where it is really obvious, is the bike path that we will follow to make our way out of Taipei. Though it stretches far beyond the length of the city, it is nestled in a wide open green space following the Tamsui River. A ride at any time of day along the path sees bikes, wheel chairs, runners and dog walkers. While clearly built as a bike path, it is remarkable to see the many ways that the residents of Taipei interpret and integrate this infrastructure into their lives. The cycling industry’s influence benefits the residents in many more ways than simply providing them bikes.

RELATED
TOUR

Bamboo Road

Many of us have criss-crossed the countries of South-East Asia on a ‘shoestring’ over the years, returning home with fond memories. Now we invite...

Taiwan’s cycling industry also benefits TDA riders every day! Looking around, it is easy to spot the many bikes that have made the journey back across the seas. Salsa Fargo, Specialized AWOL, Raleigh Sojourn, Norco Search, Kona Unit – each of these bikes were brought to life on this island.

After completing the 1,000 kilometre loop around Taiwan, we will continue onto mainland China and head south through 5 more countries (Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia, Thailand, Malaysia) before pedalling into the bustling mega metropolis of Singapore. Each country will have different scenery, languages and cuisines. For now, however, as we ride around this luscious island, we will be reminded with every pedal stroke of our connection to this land, these people and this economy.

In the fall of 2017, I participated on our company’s Bamboo Road Cycling Tour and had the opportunity to test a touring e-bike from Shanghai to Hanoi. When I came home, I wrote a blog called “It is not a donkey and it is not a horse. Maybe it’s a mule” which described my experience with the bike and the inherent issues with its use.

Since then e-bike technology has evolved and so has the debate. E-bikes are becoming lighter. The batteries are better, allowing for a longer range without needing to recharge. As far as I can tell, most, cycling tour companies now offer an e-bike option. These usually involve short one or two-week tours that start and finish at the same point. This is a very important to remember as the main challenge of using an e-bike on a cycling tour is that airlines will not allow e-bike batteries in a rider’s luggage. As a result, an e-bike user faces a major and costly challenge.

RELATED
TOUR

Viva Italia

It has been said that ‘All roads lead to Rome’ and the Viva Italia cycling tour is simply more proof that this may indeed be the case...

This is not a problem for a company that offers cycling holidays in one area several times in one season. They can rent e-bikes to clients without too much difficulty. It is, however, a much different issue for long distance cycling adventures such as those that our company offers. There are other questions in addition to the flight/battery issue. E-bikes used on cycle touring in areas of the world where electricity interruptions are not uncommon can be an issue. Without having a consistent ability to charge their batteries, the e-bike user and the cycling tour operator have a problem. There is also the dilemma of carrying the heavier e-bikes if they are not being used.

One interesting development are the so-called self-charging e-bikes such as e-jitensha, Nua Electra and Zehus that have hit the market in the past year. They still need further testing to see how much help they really provide and how they will perform on a touring trip as they were not designed with cycle touring in mind. Regardless, these bikes have the same problems with airlines as they can not be transported on commercial flights with their owners. These self charging bikes are much lighter and are really e-assist bikes, meaning that the cyclist must pedal rather than simply use the battery. In theory, these would be the bikes that would work best on a cycle touring adventure.

Another issue for tour operators who allow e-bikes on their tours is the impact it may have on non e-bike users, many of whom look down on e-bike cyclists. However, according to cycling operators, their experience has shown that after some initial reservations, this is really a nonissue.

Since the publication of my blog almost two years ago, the frequency of emails to our office regarding the use of e-bikes on our tours has increased. I expect it will continue to grow as more and more people, who would like to enjoy our cycling adventures but who have some concerns about distances and/or elevation gain, health limitations or less fit partners, consider e-bikes as the solution to these issues.

RELATED
TOUR

Bamboo Road

Many of us have criss-crossed the countries of South-East Asia on a ‘shoestring’ over the years, returning home with fond memories. Now we invite...

As a result, we have decided that on certain tours, for example, the Viva Italia that starts and finishes in Rome and the first section of the upcoming Bamboo Road Tour – Taiwan Coastal Loop – that does a circle of Taiwan starting and ending in Taipei, any cyclist who comes with their own e-bike or arranges to rent one in Rome or Taipei is welcome to join the tour. Something to keep in mind, however, is that this will be a learning experience for both sides, the rider and our company.

For additional information regarding bringing e-bikes on TDA tours, please see our FAQ.

Although I have written a script for a short video, “I Seek”, and have written a blog or two about searching for enlightenment, I do not think that anyone who knows me well will say that I am a spiritual person or have any particular inspiration that will shake the world. Nevertheless, like most people, I try to make sense of the world around me. I have even made a few feeble attempts at meditation. I am fascinated by bamboo and because I am in awe of Zen masters such as one of my favourite writers Peter Matthiessen, I enjoyed reading a little piece on a website called Presentation Zen called “Be Like the Bamboo: 7 lessons from the Japanese forest”.

In a couple of months from now a group of 30 or so riders will be cycling on one of our more exotic tours called the Bamboo Road. This year it will start in Taiwan and continue through Southern China, Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia, Thailand and Malaysia, before finally drawing to a close in Singapore. In all those countries there is plenty of bamboo in evidence so, with that in mind, I thought I would briefly go over the ‘7 lessons from the Japanese forest’ as they apply to our Bamboo Road tour.

1. Bend but don’t break. Be flexible yet firmly rooted

Cycling 100 km a day, at times under very unfavourable conditions, can bend any person. Add to this the fact that one may be cycling in areas of the world that are completely new to them can further unnerve a rider. However, if you keep in mind and stay rooted to the reason why you are there and to what you are doing, you will, like the bamboo, survive any storm coming your way. As the famous martial artist Bruce Lee once said, “notice that the stiffest tree is most easily cracked, while the bamboo or willow survives by bending with the wind”.

2. Remember: What looks weak is strong

Who would guess that bamboo trees have a higher tensile strength per weight than steel? If you look at the pictures of the participants on the Bamboo Road tour, they may not look like they are Olympians or finishers in Ironman triathlons. Yet these men and women, some of them in their sixties or even seventies, who may not look like they can cycle centuries (100 miles), can best illustrate that looks can be deceiving. They are super strong, in their bodies but even more so in their inner mental strength.

3. Be always ready

If you look closely at a bamboo tree, you will see that it requires no processing for it to be used in building or for a wide variety of needs. Of course, any cyclist that wants to survive a ride, whether to the corner shop or to the top of a mountain, must always be ready for the unexpected. After all, being on two wheels maybe magic but it is magic that requires your full attention.

4. Unleash your power to spring back

Bamboo is like a loaded spring that can be bent.The more it is bent, the stronger the spring back will be. So, it is with cyclists on the Bamboo Road tour. The longer they cycle, the stronger they get. New arrivals at first wonder how will they cycle the 90 km scheduled for next day. By the end of the tour 100 km and 1000 m of climbing feels like an easy day. Like the bamboo, they have learned how easily they can spring into action.

RELATED
TOUR

Bamboo Road

Many of us have criss-crossed the countries of South-East Asia on a ‘shoestring’ over the years, returning home with fond memories. Now we invite...

5. Find wisdom in emptiness

We all know that bamboo is hollow. On a cycling tour, there will be days when the wind is in your face, the raindrops are rolling down your cheeks, the hill ahead of you feels like Mount Everest and you will be asking yourself, why? What is the point? You will feel empty and hollow. But just as the hollowness of bamboo gives it tensile strength so does any obstacle that you will face on tour. The more you will look, the more likely you will find wisdom

6. Commit to (continuous) growth

According to the Guinness World Records, bamboo is the fastest growing plant on the planet. One species grows by almost a metre per day. Human beings can’t grow, either physically or spiritually, at such a fast speed. However, those who are committed to growth understand that travel to faraway places and the discomfort it may bring them, is part of their spiritual and emotional growth, change that contributes to their well being and to the well being of the people around them.

7. Express usefulness through simplicity

It was the ultimate genius, Albert Einstein, who said “everything should be made simple as possible but not simpler”. In the article, “Be Like the Bamboo: 7 lessons from the Japanese forest”, the author Garr Reynolds quotes the Aikido master Kensho Furuya “The bamboo in its simplicity expresses its usefulness. Man should do the same.” Many of us, and I think Albert Einstein would concur, believe that the bicycle is the most simple and efficient mode of transportation ever invented and that there is no better way to express its simplicity than to ride it for a few thousand kilometres on tours like the Bamboo Road. While you are riding be sure to keep a close eye on the amazing uses of bamboo along the way.

Last year I was lucky enough to spend seven weeks in Japan. I travelled around the country, half the time walking on Shikoku Island and the other half, visiting the Okinawan islands. This February I found myself sent to Taiwan and mainland China to scout the new sections of the 2019 Bamboo Road Cycling Expedition. What a surprise! While driving around the island I realized how similar it looked to the Japanese archipelago. I shared my impression with Jimmy, our local support for Mandarin-speaking regions, and he told me that Taiwan was occupied by the Japanese from 1895 to 1945. During those 50 years the economy, education, culture, religion and urbanization of this island all radically changed.

Front gate of Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall

If you are wavering between exploring China and Japan and have 2 weeks off in September this year, Taiwan is a great compromise. On the ‘Taiwan Coastal Loop‘ section of the Bamboo Road, you can circumnavigate the island and experience both cultures. It’s really interesting to travel there and see how well these two rich heritages mix together to form a new syncretism.

Streets signs, Taipei

You’ll sometimes think you’re travelling in Japan due to the modernity of the cities, the great cell phone coverage (unblocked!) and the ubiquitous presence of 7-Eleven and Family-Mart convenience stores throughout the island. Everyone speaks Mandarin but in bigger cities you can always find some people who speak English.

Ancient Temple

Religion on this island is most diverse. It mixes Shinto (the original religion of Japan), Buddhism, Atheism, Daoism/Taoism, Mazu (a Chinese sea goddess), Christianity, Confucianism, Yiguandao and some other, even more localized beliefs.

Taiwanese Meatballs

You can find fresh sushi, takoyaki (octopus’ balls) and udon noodles, all of which are typically from Japan and sample traditional Chinese food. Taiwan is also known for its own unique culinary cuisine and many people travel to the country just to sample it.

RELATED
TOUR

Bamboo Road

Many of us have criss-crossed the countries of South-East Asia on a ‘shoestring’ over the years, returning home with fond memories. Now we invite...

How do you say rear derailleur?

Residents of Taiwan are most considerate and curious about foreigners. They want to talk to you and, despite the language barrier, you can communicate with apps like Google Translate, where each person speaks in their native tongue and hears a  translated response from their smartphone.

East Coast, Taiwan

Landscapes are stunning. On your bicycle, you’ll likely want to stop at every corner. Roads range from winding trails in the mountains with impressive lookouts to oceanside routes bordered by sheer cliffs.

There are dedicated bike paths by rivers and through the rice paddies. On the Bamboo Road, you exit and re-enter Taipei on beautiful bike paths along the river.

Kenting National Park

You can relax by the beach and hike in the mountains in Kenting National Park or enjoy a soak in one of the island’s many beautiful hot springs.

Rice Paddies

It takes 10 riding days to circle this beautiful island. Each day comes with its own unique flavour. Every 100 kms is different!

On previous editions of the Bamboo Road Cycling Expedition, the route in Malaysia from Penang to Kuala Lumpur stayed to the lower elevations, rarely even reaching 100m above seal level. This made for some relatively easy cycling but in very hot and humid conditions. For 2019 we decided to ‘cool’ things off a bit by detouring up into the Cameron Highlands. From Malaysia’s 3rd largest city, Ipoh, the riders will now climb up 2300m over 85kms to the Highland’s main town of Tanah Rata. Their effort will be rewarded with cooler temperatures, low humidity, spectacular scenery and a well-earned rest day.

The Cameron Highlands were first mapped out by the British in 1885 but it wasn’t until the 1930’s that they decided to turn it into a hill station, similar to those in British India, especially after it was shown that tea could be grown in the area. The Highlands are home to over 700 species of plants including many that are rare to the tropics. Despite an increase in development, the area is still covered in forests (70%) and is sprinkled with numerous orchards and nurseries.

Bamboo Road cyclists will have a wide variety of rest day activities to choose from. Here are 4 that we would highly recommend.

Ramble On

The Highlands are blessed not only with cool weather but also with verdant forests, picturesque lakes, sparkling waterfalls, rushing rivers and even hidden aboriginal villages. This makes it an ideal place for a hike. Almost all the routes begin in the town of Tanah Rata. Plan for anywhere from 1 to 5 hours and consider bringing along a picnic lunch. Alternately, you can stop in at one of the many tea plantations for a taste of their products.

High Tea

The Cameron Highlands are, of course, justifiably famous for its tea plantations which carpet the region’s rolling hills but as a former colonial hill station, it was the British who introduced the tradition of High Tea. This idea arose in England in 1840 when Anna, the seventh Duchess of Bedford, would find herself hungry by about 16:00 in the afternoon. She decided to have tea served at that time along with scones and clotted cream and preserves. Originally, she would enjoy these in the privacy of her room but eventually decided to invite her friends to join her and, voila, Afternoon High Tea came in being. Bamboo Road cyclists should be sure to enjoy this tradition. After all, it was the English novelist Henry James who claimed ““There are few hours in life more agreeable than the hour dedicated to the ceremony known as afternoon tea.”

RELATED
TOUR

Bamboo Road

Many of us have criss-crossed the countries of South-East Asia on a ‘shoestring’ over the years, returning home with fond memories. Now we invite...

Float Like A Butterfly…Sting Like a Bee

While the Cameron Highlands are noted for its wide variety of flora, it is also home to a large number of species of butterflies and bees. Of course, riders can perhaps see them while cycling or enjoying one of the many hiking trails in the area but they also have the opportunity to get a more in-depth experience with the region’s fauna. One option is the fascinating Cameron Highland Butterfly Farm. Founded in 1990, it features 40 species of butterflies, an insect exhibition, some reptiles like the Agamid lizard, horned frog and pit viper as well as an interesting cafe that features “firing chicken wing and spicy fish balls to burn your day”. Alternatively, riders can visit one of the area’s bee farms located in Ringlet (Highlands Apiary Farm), Brinchang (Ee Feng Gu Bee Farm) and Tringkap (Cameron Tringkap Bee Farm).

Strawberry Fields Forever

High Tea in the Cameron Highlands obviously requires preserves for the scones that are a big part of the delicious afternoon ceremony. Fortunately, the Highlands are home to innumerable strawberry farms, producing an endless supply of the sweet berries. Along with the fields of tea, the strawberry fields are an iconic part of the local landscape. The cool climate ensures that the fruit can be harvested year round. Bamboo Road cyclists will have the opportunity to pick their own berries, stocking up for the next day’s ride or perhaps storing away a jar or two of strawberry jam to be shared with other riders at a future lunch stop.