† Explanation of BAC Ride Fee – This fee is not included in the Estimated Cost and is non-refundable once submitted. The Ride Fee for US and Canada is $50 and $100 for all other countries, both are per participant.
Overview
One of the most popular destinations in Asia, Vietnam abounds with natural and cultural splendours that are second to none in the region. Bold, bustling, and vibrant, Vietnam offers adventures of all kinds, from within its cities to its majestic countryside. Engaging and inviting locals, surprisingly sophisticated cuisine, and beautiful views around nearly every bend make Vietnam one of the most rewarding cycling destinations in Southeast Asia. This epic bicycle tour showcases all aspects of Vietnam; from the poignant aspects of its war-torn history to its fragrant and unforgettable cuisine. Cycle through beautiful wetlands backed by jagged peaks, capture an unforgettable snapshot of Vietnam’s shoreline, challenge yourself with scenic climbs, and explore a side of Vietnam unseen by most. Our journey includes an overnight cruise in the beautiful Lan Ha Bay
This ride lasts 17 days /16 nights with 11 full cycling days. Each day's ride will be between 19 – 65 miles with an average elevation of 2,640 feet. Our ultimate Vietnam adventure kicks off in bustling Ho Chi Minh City, otherwise known as Saigon. We begin our biking adventure on Sunday, March 7, 2021 with transfers from the airport (SGN) to the Sky Gem Hotel (http://www.skygemhotel.com/), followed by our first Happy Hour before a welcome dinner at a charming heritage restaurant in the city. The ride sets off the next morning after a short transfer out of Saigon to the idyllic Mekong countryside beyond, where we'll explore the vast underground C Chi tunnels, a fascinating relic of the Vietnam War. From there, we climb up to the pine-forested highlands to Phan Thiet and to Dalat, or “Le Petit Paris.” Heading towards Nha Trang, we’ll tackle challenging hills and the Hon Giao Pass. Our legs will be tested, but the views are worth it as we gaze upon the blue waters of Nha Trang, a famous seaside getaway. The following day, gentle climbs snake along the Da Bia Mountain before a transfer to My Thanh. Here, we cycle Vietnam’s smooth terrain in Tuy Hoa, passing rice fields dotted with water buffalo and quaint countryside life on to the Central Coast. We'll enjoy central Vietnam’s iconic sandy-white beaches framed by coconut palms along the emerald green horizon of the South China Sea all the way to Hoi An. We'll spend two nights in this charming town, a favorite of world-travellers, including the late Anthony Bourdain. An excursion takes us to the ancient Khmer ruins of My Son, now a sprawling UNESCO World Heritage site, before we head on to the ancient city of Hue by way of Hai Van Pass. After some exploration of Hue's fascinating history, we'll board an afternoon flight to Hanoi, the northern capital. Our ride takes us out of the frenetic city traffic, to discover the truly untouched natural beauty and charming people of northern Vietnam. Enjoy the spectacular backdrop of mountains as we come into Mai Chau valley, the perfect place to experience Vietnam's village life, before riding through the pineapple plantations of Haiphong. At last, our epic cycling adventure concludes in the Gulf of Tonkin, as we sail through the fantastic limestone scenery of Lan Ha Bay. We'll overnight aboard our boat in the calm waters of the bay, surrounded by thousands of limestone islands. Our journey departs on Tuesday , March 23, 2021 in Hanoi with a transfer to Noi Bai International Airport (HAN).
Ride Rating - 3B
There are 11 biking days averaging 45 miles and elevation gain of 2,640 feet. There are 2 longer days, approximately 65 miles (Day 3 with 2,549 ft climbing and Day 4 with 8,868 ft climbing, At happy hour the day before our big climbing day we will discuss options for pick up points to assist our riders if needed. The total ascent for this tour is approximately 29,048 ft. This is a touring trip on a mixture of good sealed roads. Support vehicle is available to assist if needed.
Weather
Weather in the south is very warm in March. As we go north, the temperature drops but stays very comfortable. March is in the low rain season but may rain some.
Lodging and Meals
16 nights accommodation is included and overnights will range from traditional and charming hotels to deluxe properties. Accommodation is included from arrival on Sunday, March 7, 2021 until departure on Tuesday, March 23, 2021.
All 16 breakfasts, 15 lunches and 15 dinners are included.. As usual, all happy hours are included as well.
Logistics
You should aim to fly into Tan Son Nhat International Airport, Saigon (airport code: SGN) and out from Noi Bai International Airport, Hanoi (airport code: HAN) . The tour begins in the afternoon with trip briefing and bike setting before the 5.30 PM Happy Hour on Sunday, March 7, 2021. Airport transfers to the hotel will be arranged. If you arrive early, the ride leader will coordinate with the tour provider to assist you with transportation.
The tour provider offers Trek X Caliber Mountain bike or similar available for $250 rental charge. If you prefer a road bike,Trek Domane Road bike rentals in the south and Giant Anyroad in the north, are available for $310 rental charge. E Bike is on request at $590. You will deal directly with the tour provider for your bike rental by emailing them. You should consider bringing your own clip pedals, shoes, cleats and helmet. If you wish to bring your own bicycle, please note that the bike will be transferred by truck. Please make sure your bike is in good mechanical order with all parts necessary to maintain it throughout the ride. The cycle guides are trained in basic- bike mechanics and first aid.
Cost & Administration
The estimated cost per person, double occupancy is $4500. The price includes 16 nights lodging, 16 breakfasts, 15 lunches, 15 dinners, domestic flight in economy class, cue sheets, Happy Hours refreshments, overnight boat cruise and transport to and from the airport. The price also includes $100 per person towards tips for the guides, drivers and crew. Actual tips will be decided as a group. The price does not include the non-refundable BAC ride registration fee, the cost of optional activities, or alcoholic drinks at included meals. Initial payment of $2,000 and BAC fees is due with registration. A 2nd payment of $2500 is due January 15, 2021. Solo supplement is $850
Singles & Solo Policy
Singles who want a roommate should try to find their own. However, after receipt of the initial deposit, a single without a roommate will be placed on the ride and given until September 1, 2020, to find a roommate. If they are unable to find a roommate, they will have the option to receive a refund (minus the BAC fee and payment processing fee) or pay the $850 solo supplement and stay on the ride. If a single pays the supplement, they may continue to seek a roommate, but must plan to participate without a roommate if necessary. The Ride Leader will assist by attempting to match singles who apply for this ride. Send solo supplement payments by September 1, 2020 to the BAC office. Make out checks to “BAC” with a notation of the tour name included on the check. Mail the check to: Bicycle Adventure Club, PO Box 23998, San Diego, CA 92123.
Cancellation Policy
The BAC ride registration fee and payment processing fee is not refundable unless the entire tour is canceled due to lack of participation below stated minimum requirements. Refunds of tour payments will depend upon whether a replacement rider signs up, and on costs that can be recouped. The amount refunded will be based on the principle that the tour’s remaining participants will not incur any additional cost as a result of cancellations. If the cancelling participant is replaced, a refund will be made at that time. If the cancelling participant can’t be replaced, any refund will be determined after the ride and final expense reports are completed. If a single participant cancels and another roommate cannot be found, in addition to other costs that cannot be recouped the cancelling roommate may also be liable for the solo supplement fee of the roommate remaining on the tour. BAC encourages members to purchase trip cancellation insurance.
Ride Participant Responsibility
Please remember that BAC Ride Leaders are volunteers, and successful tours depend on participants providing much of their own support. Participants are expected to come to the ride well trained, in good health and ready to accomplish the required daily riding using well-maintained bicycles. All participants should accept responsibility for a safe and enjoyable tour. We encourage you to read the ride description carefully and respond to requests from the Ride Leaders. While on the ride, support your Ride Leaders with offers to help with various tasks such as happy hour preparation and clean-up. Please do not interfere with the ride by inviting non-participants onto any portion of the ride or tour. Please keep the Ride Leaders informed of any special requests and respect the Ride Leader’s decisions.
Sign-up
To submit a request to join this ride, use the “links” displayed above this Ride Description. When you are accepted, the Ride Leader will move you from the Waitlist to the Pending List. At this time you will receive an email notification to login to the BAC website to sign a release of liability form and pay the non-refundable BAC ride registration fee and the initial tour deposit of $2000 by credit card. As soon as your deposit has been processed, your name(s) will be added to the Participant List. To contact the Ride Leaders, “click” the name at the top of this Ride Description.
Bicycle Adventure Club
PO BOX 23998 San Diego, CA 92193
Telephone (858) 715-9510 office@bicycleadventureclub.org