On the road in the rain.

It was already drizzling when I awoke. Not bad, but not the glorious sunshine I was hoping for. Took a Grab to Style Motorbikes for the princely sum of 94 pence and set about loading up my steed for the next 3 weeks.

Then it was a quick stop for petrol and then east on a Google Maps plotted course. It is always the mark of a civilised country when bikes are not charged to use the toll roads. It is a very bike friendly country as it seems they still outnumber the cars. The riding/driving style looks chaotic from the outside, but once you are immersed in it, it makes sense.......just need to have your head on a swivel as things can come at you from any angle!

A road closure meant a detour through an odd little town and along a dirt track. Off road on day one! Woohoo!! The rain persisted, not really heavy but relentless. I eventually discarded my mesh riding jacket for a waterproof one. Stupidly, I didn't bother with the matching trousers. So, my legs got wetter and wetter as my boots filled with water; and an unpleasant squelching accompanying every gear change.

I stopped for a roadside lunch of beef Pho. Cheap and delicious! Then back out into the wet. Despite the weather, it was an enjoyable day's ride. Just felt great to be out on a bike again.

Ended the day after a hundred miles or so at Da Teh (a small but pleasant enough town). Just in time as the rain started thundering down with full venom. The bike is safely parked directly outside my room at the astonishing price of £5.66. Not much food options nearby and the weather dissuaded me from exploring further, so another bowl of Pho. Soooo tasty!

Against all expectations, the following day dawned bright and sunny with a beautiful blue sky stretching to the horizon. A quick breakfast for me and some fuel for the bike and I set off, eager to make the most of the conditions while they lasted. The D.725 towards DaLat was the road that beckoned; and I happily followed it's call.

It was a fantastic ride through the Vietnamese countryside, light traffic and mostly good quality roads combined perfectly with the glorious sunshine. It was going to be a good day. Only about 195km to my destination, but what a ride!

This is coffee country. An endless expanse of the evil beans are grown here. Much more appealing to look at the plants than drink the stuff!

After a few hours of joyful riding, I stopped at some random eatery on the edge of a random village. It was a point and hope job, but the food was excellent and copious (soup, rice, veggies and a pork/tofu thing for about £1). I think I spent a grand total of £12 yesterday for everything: accommodation, food, petrol, drinks). Vietnam is good!

About 20km short of DaLat, the rain returned. But lesson learned, full waterproof suit on. I've learnt that if it isn't raining, BUT the locals are dressed for the wet, then do likewise.........and quickly!

DaLat seems like an interesting town; set in the hills with lots of tourists around. Lots to see and do, I guess. But I get my thrills from riding the bike!

Checked into my hotel: £6 tonight....... thought I'd treat myself!!

Soundtrack: "Cloudbusting" - Kate Bush