HO CHI MINH to BANGKOK

Cambodia was the setting for our “silly season” – and what a pleasant surprise it turned out to be…

The people were incredibly friendly.  Their smiles are so big, you couldn’t help but join in.  The road condition was also much better than we had feared.  The only real hazard, was avoiding the numerous speeding government officials in their luxury 4WDs!  Cambodia is poor, so you have to be prepared for that, but it was a great country to cycle through and really does offer a lot more than Angkor Wat!!

Speaking of which, Angkor Wat (Siem Reap) is where we spent our Xmas.  It was a relaxing (and lazy) break.  A hotel with a pool, lots of yummy food, and when we finally got sick of that – a ride around the amazing Angkor temples.  We usually get “templed out” pretty quick, but we must say, these are worth the effort!

We then pedaled to Bangkok, to spend New Year’s Eve with our good friends, Shane and Joop.  Bangkok has never disappointed, and didn’t this time, which largely has to do with Shane being such a perfect host.  We counted down to 2010 in style at an Italian restaurant, watching fireworks from the roof, wearing silly hats and blowing annoying trumpets.  It was the perfect end, to an incredible year!

Shane has now decided to join us for the ride down the coast to Phuket.  It is going to be hot, and involve crossing the mountains that run down the spine of Thailand.  It is about 1,000 kms, and will take us just under two weeks to complete.  But what makes it most impressive – Shane can’t even remember the last time he rode a bike!!  It’s sure to be a great adventure – stay tuned.

Jules & Jess

Classic Cambodia!

Two cyclistas in Phnom Penh

Jess "on the road" in Cambodia

A typical Cambodian house

We are not alone! Another cyclist leaving their mark

Where we spent Xmas... by the pool

I scream, you scream, we all scream ice-cream

Dinner out on the town, Siem Reap

The daddy - Angkor Wat

The many faces of Angkor Thom

Bumper to bumper elephants riding between the temples

Ta Phrom... choked by the trees

Pedaling to NYE in Bangkok

Shane & Joop

Silly hats & annoying trumpets

Happy New Year 2010 !!