The NE Vietnam tour was everything I imagined it would be, and more. You can forgive having to cycle up a few steep hills every now and then as you are subsequently exposed to some of the most stunning and breathtaking panoramic scenery in one of the more remote and undocumented parts of the world, being continuously welcomed by friendly locals along the way and eating delicious Vietnamese cuisine everyday. David’s experience as a tour leader made the trip very enjoyable, not to mention Phong’s timeless sense of humour. All in all, an unforgettable trip which I would thoroughly recommend.
Priyen Shah on Vietnam - Northeast
Point to point cycling in remote terrain travelling through a fascinating country, delivered with a great personal touch from a small independent company - who could ask for more? David, owner of Painted Roads, cycled every inch of the ride with the group and managed the group in a very non-intrusive way. His light touch allowed the group and individuals to ride their own ride. This allowed the group dynamic to comfortably evolve. This relaxed approach was possible due to David’s extensive efforts in planning the trip, his excellent choice in local guide and the many years’ experience gained cycle touring and delivering trips in SE Asia.
Mark Adams (47) A portly middle-aged gentleman and recreational cyclist with a penchant for long weekend rides, the occasional Audax and the odd Sport on Vietnam - Ho Chi Minh Trail
A wonderful trip and a fantastic way to get a glimpse into the lives of the local peoples whilst enjoying great cycling amongst the most stunning scenery imaginable. Expertly run by David whose inexhaustible supply of good humour, energy and beer, in conjunction with his local team, meant even the toughest days were superb fun.
Phil Hurcom on Vietnam - Northeast
The tour was better than I had anticipated. The brochure pretty much explained what we were in for, but it was just so interesting. Some of the paths were quite narrow, some of the bridges were 'interesting' to cross and some of the roads were quite rough but the bikes we had hired were perfect. The weather, well you couldn't have asked for anything better, cloudy most days with a few showers which actually were quite welcome to cool us down. Everything ran so smoothly, just like the traffic, it just flowed. Seeing the countryside away from the cities and the people who were just so excited to see us 'westerners' was great. Definitely would recommend this tour, it was TERRIFIC!
Angela Rayner on Vietnam - Mekong Delta Region
We thoroughly enjoyed the Yunnan. The local people were really friendly and the scenery was superb. Cathy, the very accomplished cycling guide and the two drivers, both called Li, and our tour guide David of course, made us feel that they could cope with any eventuality. Echo looked after our every need. We also enjoyed the company of our fellow travellers, together with the crew, and had lots of laughs along the way, whilst staying in comfortable, attractive and friendly accommodation. We would definitely recommend this tour.
Pat & Keith Green on China - Yunnan
Another wonderful trip with Painted Roads, this time the Tri-Nations tour of Vietnam, Laos and Thailand. Great cycling, excellent food, amazing scenery and great travel companions. David Walker and his in-country teams do an amazing job of keeping us focused on the cycling whilst ensuring we have plenty of excellent food at each break, good accommodation and smooth organisation at every stop. I have already signed up for my fourth trip - it's the only way to see Asia.
David Morrison on Tri Nations. Vietnam-Laos-Thailand
This is an authentic trip around the Mekong Delta. The sort of trip that is pretty hard to find these days. The route was along narrow tracks beside rivers and canals through the real Mekong. The kids we encountered were very excited as we passed by & the locals in general laughed & waved. I think they thought we were crazy! I suspect that they have not seen mad cyclists since the group rode through a year ago!
Tony Web on Vietnam - Mekong Delta Region
Overall I really enjoyed the Northern Thailand tour. David is a natural tour leader both for his personal skills and secondly is always thinking many steps ahead to make the journey seamless and enjoyable for all the participants. His enthusiasm and passion for the love of doing this business radiates to everyone around him so it would be very hard not to enjoy yourself on such a trip.
Wally, Canada on Thailand - North
our Mongolia cycling experience was mountain biking through immense wilderness, wide open valleys, steep climbs, river crossings, yaks, horses, sheep, goats, and scattered nomad gers (yurts). It’s another world. Think “Wild West” on steroids, missing only the trees and snow-capped peaks. Painted Roads’ drivers, guides and cooks were exceptional. Wild camping in the bush with a portable toilet tent is common, but with a portable shower, too - unbelievable!
Carol York. USA on Mongolia Khangai Mountains
NE Vietnam is a very special place, and I can't imagine doing it any other way than on a bicycle - with Painted Roads of course. I was so sorry it was over. Could have done it all over again! So thank you for making it such a memorable trip. Great organisation, great fun, but also great care and concern when some of us were wilting in the extreme heat. And thanks to Phong, Mr Thang and Mr Chung. What a team. Looking forward to the next one!
Jan Livingstone on Vietnam - Northeast