I’m nearing the end of my time in Vietnam, having to depart soon as I won’t be able to reach Hanoi before my visa expires. The northerly headwinds have been a challenge, prompting me to alter my course. Instead of heading north, I decided to turn west from Quy Nhon, marking the conclusion of my cycling journey in this beautiful country.
During my stay, from November 24th to December 21st, I meticulously tracked my expenses. In total, I spent $656.10, which averages out to $24.30 per day. This budget covered various costs including accommodation, meals, beverages, the occasional massage, bicycle maintenance, and miscellaneous expenses. A significant portion of my budget, nearly half at 47% or $308.17, was allocated to accommodation. It’s worth noting that I wasn’t particularly frugal. For travelers seeking a more budget-conscious experience, Vietnam is accommodating. You can comfortably manage on a $10-20 daily budget, especially if you opt for dormitory-style lodging rather than private rooms.
My itinerary included 12 days dedicated to cycling and 15 days to work, during which I covered a total distance of 1171 kilometers. The map below illustrates the route I took across this diverse landscape.
Reflecting on my time here, Vietnam stands out as an exceptional destination for both work and cycling adventures. Its cost of living is impressively low, even when compared to neighboring countries like Thailand or Cambodia. Finding high-quality hotels for $10-15 a night is easy, and the country is dotted with a plethora of cafes and restaurants.
In terms of work, the typical office worker’s schedule often involves 20-22 working days per month. However, during my trip, I found myself working slightly less, with a total of 15 days. This reduction in workdays didn’t significantly diminish my overall work experience; it simply meant that I needed to work longer on the days I did work.
One of the best aspects was that my cycling trip encouraged me to stop in smaller cities where tourists are virtually nonexistent. I found these small cities to be very nice places to focus on work with fewer distractions. Additionally, they offered the chance to enjoy local food and culture much more intimately. I highly recommend bicycle nomading in Vietnam for its unique blend of work, culture, and adventure.
