Cycling 420 km: A Girl's Budget Adventure through Ha Giang and Cao Bang

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Cycling 420 km: A Girl’s Budget Adventure through Ha Giang and Cao Bang

Instead of traveling by car or motorbike, Phuong Nam chose a “slow travel” budget adventure by bicycle to freely explore the culture, landscapes, and immerse herself in the local life during her 8-day journey through Ha Giang and Cao Bang.

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From dream to reality

Phuong Nam and two friends embarked on a cycling adventure through Ha Giang and Cao Bang.

Dinh Hoang Phuong Nam, born in 2002, is a final-year student at Hung Vuong University, majoring in Tourism and Hospitality Management (Phu Tho).

On the fourth day of Tet Quy Mao 2023, Phuong Nam and two friends embarked on a cycling adventure to Ha Giang and Cao Bang, fulfilling her long-held dream of visiting these destinations.

The 8-day, 8-night journey covered a total distance of 420 km, passing through famous destinations in Ha Giang such as Du Gia, Mau Due, Yen Minh, Lung Cu, Dong Van, Meo Vac, and Cao Bang, including Bao Lac Town, Khau Coc Cha Pass, and Xuan Truong Valley.

Phuong Nam and two friends

Previously, Phuong Nam had traveled to many places, experiencing various means of transport such as motorbikes, cars, trains, and planes. However, these trips mainly focused on check-ins, dining, and sightseeing, leaving little lasting impression.

Gradually, the 10X began emphasizing interaction during her trips, allowing herself to freely explore the culture, landscapes, climate, and especially the people. She now avoids fixed itineraries, schedules, and destinations for a more immersive experience.

Preparing for the journey

The special companion of the 21-year-old during her exploration of Ha Giang and Cao Bang during the 2023 Lunar New Year trip.

To ensure a safe cycling journey, Phuong Nam dedicated two full months to improving her health and physical fitness. She shared that she typically cycled an average of 50 kilometers daily, and on her days off, she would tackle an additional 100 kilometers uphill to Tam Dao.

In addition to training, the young cyclist took her bike for thorough maintenance and proactively purchased spare tubes, a pump, and a hex key set for adjustments. Before departing, she carefully visited a repair shop to learn how to adjust brakes, gears, and patch tubes, equipping herself to handle potential issues independently.

Some moments captured by the female student from Phu Tho during her memorable cycling adventure.

Given that the trip involved cycling, she streamlined her gear to essentials, primarily packing necessities like clothing and medical supplies.

Phuong Nam didn’t just prepare physically; she also mentally embraced the challenges ahead. She understood the journey would be demanding and unpredictable.

“Choosing this path means accepting the struggles—unpredictable weather, not always having a proper place to sleep or a full meal, and potential traffic risks. However, once you’re well-prepared, there’s no need to worry too much. Just enjoy the process,” she shared.

Fortunately, the 21-year-old’s journey went smoothly for the most part. The only real challenge was conquering stretches of consecutive steep climbs.

Overcoming challenges

Phuong Nam’s most vivid memory was the final day of her journey when she broke down in tears from exhaustion while cycling from Bao Lac town to Cao Bang City. She recalled that the scorching heat that day made things worse as she pedaled until 2 PM on an empty stomach, with no food reserves left and no homes or villages in sight.

The picturesque scenery along the road the young woman cycled through

“While I was crying and feeling hopeless, two H’Mong men passed by and gave me a small banh chung. It was just a simple rice cake, but it warmed my heart and gave me enough strength to keep going,” she recounted.

She also spoke highly of the breathtaking and poetic landscapes of Ha Giang and Cao Bang. What left a deeper impression, however, was the simplicity and warmth of the ethnic communities she encountered. They welcomed her with open arms, offering a place to stay and sharing their humble meals, creating a sense of home far from home.

The end of a brave and budget adventure journey

Meeting the adorable children from the highland areas

Phuong Nam shared that her 8-day, 8-night cycling trip cost her approximately 2.5 million VND. With this modest budget, she was able to explore various parts of Cao Bang and Ha Giang, immerse herself in the local way of life, and create unforgettable memories.

After this journey, she felt proud and content to have fulfilled her passion, met like-minded individuals, and gained a deeper understanding of the lives of ethnic communities in the highlands. It was also an opportunity to strengthen her independence, resilience, and physical stamina while nurturing her spirit through acts of sharing and mutual support.