Even now, many people’s knowledge of Vietnam comes from war footage and news reports. Reminders remain in the form of the Viet Cong tunnels and far too many stray landmines, but times have moved on dramatically.

Located at the crossroads of Eastern Asia you’ll find there are more cultural contrasts than perhaps any small country should hold, and enough vibrant colours to make an artist’s palette battle to keep up. The fact that Vietnam is a socialist republic adds yet another interesting aspect to be explored. Hiring local scooters, Sam and Birgit did just that.

Sam has travelled the world since the age of sixteen. After bicycling, sailing, hiking, buses, trains and hitch hiking he rode a motorcycle around the world for 8 years. He is the author of 4 travel books.

Traditional Transport

Getting the Harvest Aboard

The School Run

Traditional Puppets for sale in Hanoi

Communist Propaganda Poster