Arriving at Hanoi's new airport is a breeze. The airport is large and all systems work. For the first time I had opted for the "Visa on arrival" option. In the past I had seen the counter where this was processed but had been glad that I did not have to wait for perhaps several hours. Many times I had seen people sitting on the floors waiting for their names to be called. Visa on arrival costs $25US as against a normal visa fee when applied through the embassy in...

My Kitchen Rules Four days in Steamy Saigon has ended. What can I say...After Hoi An we put the bike on the train for the last little bit. The boys had had enough of the heat and dust they said and I also had the feeling that they could not keep up with me. I would have been ok to go and head for the higher mountains of Dalat. We are with the three of us so that is how it goes. I prefer leaving between six and seven AM when it is cool and take a break around...

The Pearl on the Coast Riding south from Hue the city of Danang is reached via the Hai Van Pass which means "Ocean Cloud Pass" about 21 km long and only 500 meters high but offering a most magnificent view over the city of Danang and the South China Sea. A steep pass which often required first gear to continue the winding road. A great ride. Jeremy Clarkson called it “a deserted ribbon of perfection” while filming their motorcycle ride in the Top Gea...