Lessons Learnt

When the NZ contingent left Vietnam in the 70’s, a set of documents were released entitled ‘Lessons Learnt’ detailing all of the things learnt during the Vietnam campaign. A great idea I think, so in an effort to follow in the foot steps of tradition I would like to detail lessons learnt from another South-East-Asian campaign.

Sun Protection

-         Sun block doesn’t stick and good sun block is hard to buy. In the heat of the day the only way to avoid sunburn is to cover up so long sleeved shirts and knicks with long socks are the way to go. I promise that this is actually cooler.

Food

-          Eat breakfast, second breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea, and dinner to keep V8 super car engines such as mine running.

-          If you are Suzuki swift like Sarah Coffee with plenty of condensed milk is fine!

-         Pho is always a safe option, add extra flavor with chilli sauce or fish sauce regularly provide

-         Do not eat large omelets if you are about to hit the wall… they take to long to digest (ref: ride from Vang Vieng)

-          Take a knife for cutting up fruit

Transport

-          Always take the bus number and number plate of the bus when booking a ticket. Especially in Vietnam where the bus drivers think it is funny to send you all around the bus park looking for your bus even when it is their bus you are supposed to be getting on.

-          Always take fly spray or insect repellent to deter cockroaches on bus

-          Don’t take the last tickets on the bus… you end up sitting with the luggage (Phnom Penh to Ho Chi Minh)

-          Always take the sleeping bus option where possible, heaps more room and usually not over packed

-          Bicycles rock!!! Surley Long Haul Truckers Rule!!!!

Accommodation

-          If it is clean and close to amenities it is fine so just pick the area you want to stay in and go from there.-

-          When flying into cities in Thailand it is important to know the name of a hotel in the area you want to stay otherwise the taxi drivers will charge you twice as much when you stop to check the various hotels.

Laundry

-          Fan + air con is the best formula for drying clothes in your room… or get used to wearing damp clothes in the morning. (actually quite refreshing at times)

-          If your sweat doesn’t smell you don’t need to do your washing right Sarah?

Route selection

-          Where possible, get an estimate of the elevation of the ride before combining rides that are supposed to be - done over two days into one. (ref: ride from vang vieng).

-          Roads can have 4 different names…

-         If in doubt get out your compass (step away from your bike to avoid interference) and ride in the desired direction. If your SB-GPS is malfunctioning you can also use the magnetic compass to settle disputes about which way to go.

-          Make a detailed Navigational Data Sheet (NDS) to give you confidence in your road selection.

Photos

-          Generate at least 3-4 varieties of goofey poses to be practiced at all historical sites… it makes photo taking more fun. Develop further goofey poses over the course of your travels

-          All photos should be taken in a swift manner in order to avoid gaining un-wanted attention and getting in trouble (ref: door frame photo)

-          Go Pro cameras rock!

Companionship

-          Always take a buddy who is prepared to be as crazy as you are… thanks Sarah!