Having travelled to Asia a number of times over the course of my semi-professional career as a jetsetter, I had a very specific idea in mind of what to expect: amazing food, brightly colored fabrics, temples, tuk tuks and so much sweat.
So why did I choose to introduce intense physical activity into an equation that already worked? Well, the decision actually involved a lot of hesitation. I was downright nervous that this style of travel wasn’t suited for me. I’ve always subscribed to the sort of small group travel that leaned heavily on cultural experiences through interacting with local people, their environment and, most importantly, their food.
I wasn’t sure I was fit enough to do a trip like this. I wondered whether I would be missing out on the cultural aspects (cough, the sites and the food) of Vietnam. But, having travelled extensively in all manner but this, I wanted a new challenge. I wanted something different.
So, I packed my hiking boots and my athleisure wear, flexed a few times in front of the mirror (you know, for motivation), and jumped on a plane from the US to Asia. And let me tell you, after spending 10 days hiking, biking and kayaking my way through Northern Vietnam with Intrepid Travel, I can’t think of any other way I want to travel.
Here’s why.