Day 30 Vietnam Motorbike Tour (Coming home)

I am writing this with mixed emotions. I am currently flying from Seoul back to Detroit at 37,000 feet. Ironically, I just listened to Keith Urban’s song “Coming Home”. I would like to thank my wife for letting me take this cool trip. I also would like to thank my extended family (some of which – I know thought I was crazy), my great friends, clients and all the followers of this travel blog. It has been a great adventure! 

I also want to thank Alan Chien, the owner of Vietnam Motorbike Tour Asia, Co. LTD and his two superb guides – Vuong & Lee that guided me safely through the tour. I could not have done it without them.

To sum up the people of Vietnam, I would use one word. Will. I see it in their eyes – they have the will to improve their lives. With the exception of the poor – living in the north mountains, I see their standard of living changing quickly. There is no doubt in my mind – tourism will become the largest industry in this country.

Vietnam is lush with natural resources. The infrastructure is being built albeit slowly. The hotels and resorts are under construction. Demand will push prices up. I don’t know of any other country that can provide the kind of changing landscape within a 1,000-mile drive. 

The internet cable has been installed which provides great Wi-Fi everywhere. Everyone here is connected using their cell phones as computers and using all the social media and other research/communication tools found in the US (i.e. Facebook, Trip Advisor, Google & etc.). Like many other Asian countries, they use the text application WhatsApp which works with any phone. Having access to all this technology will bring them customers and they know how to use it!

I have been touched by many people across Vietnam. I feel bad about the ones I tried to communicate with but was unable to due to the language barrier. I also was introduced to many foreigners from all over the world – on their adventure – sharing a bit of their life with me. I was especially touched by all the beautiful children that waived and said “hello” as I passed them by. They always had the biggest smiles on their faces – and hope was pouring from their hearts. I feel bad about the ones I missed.

This is probably the first and the last 30-day sabbatical I have ever taken or will take in my working life. It has been a great experience and one I will never forget. (I wonder what it would be like to cross China on a motorbike?)

Thanks for following my journey and I wish you safe travels on your journey.

The material presented is believed to be from reliable sources and no representations are made by myself as to another parties’ informational accuracy or completeness.