An adventurous spirit and conservative parents often don’t go hand in hand. Solo travel had always topped my bucket list, a dream I couldn’t quite explain but was determined to fulfil. Convincing my parents to let me embark on such a journey seemed impossible—until I discovered SoTravel.
The idea of travelling solo to explore a new country while being part of a tour group with fellow Singaporeans was the perfect compromise. I could reassure my parents, emphasising the security of travelling with a group rather than being entirely alone. This arrangement allowed me to meet new people and experience the essence of solo travel. With this plan in place, I eagerly signed up for my first adventure.
Meeting New Friends
Being somewhat introverted with new people, stepping out of my comfort zone to connect with my travel group was a small challenge. Arriving early, when the group was smaller, made it less daunting than meeting all twelve at once. This approach eased my socialising and allowed me to build connections more comfortably. Moreover, arriving early provided me with more exploration time in the city, which was a bonus. This blend of smaller initial interactions and independent city exploration made the entire experience more enjoyable and less overwhelming.
Ha Giang’s Scenery
Being wowed is an understatement—I was in awe of the Ha Giang Loop. Every morning, we woke up blessed with clear skies and refreshing air. Some days felt like navigating an obstacle course as we travelled past planks and narrow passageways, our bikes winding through the rugged terrain. The breathtaking landscapes, with their lush greenery and towering mountains, were unlike anything I had ever seen. Each twist and turn of the road brought new surprises, making every moment an exhilarating adventure.
Du Gia Waterfalls
As we rode our motorbikes through the mountains and valleys, we hit different pit stops throughout the day to admire the scenery or explore various areas. One of my favourite pit stops was the Du Gia waterfalls. It was a chill spot, full of people enjoying the waters. Here, many of us challenged ourselves to jump off the waterfall. It was truly a standout moment, as everyone’s attention was on you as you attempted the jump. The thrill and the collective cheering made it an exhilarating and unforgettable experience.
Happy Water
Coming into the trip, I had zero expectations and knew nothing about what I was going to do (I simply didn’t do my due diligence and was in for a surprise). All I knew was that I was going to ride a motorcycle for days. I had no idea that each day would end with “happy water”—rice wine disguised in plastic water bottles. This unexpected ritual, combined with karaoke, turned into a fun and cute bonding session. The warm locals always made sure our shot glasses were full, and I had a blast cheering as we blended the Ha Giang “Một, Hai, Ba, Dzô” with our own renditions. These lively evenings added a unique and memorable twist to the adventure.
Homestays
As we journeyed through the loop, our accommodations changed almost every night. My favourite stay was in a wooden house nestled in the middle of nowhere, offering breathtaking mountain views and a refreshing morning mist. There, we all bunked together on the upper floor, with single mattresses laid out on the ground. The atmosphere was incredibly homey and endearing, filled with shared stories, laughter, and bonding over our adventure. Despite the rustic charm and serene landscape, the downside was hearing everyone snore, which added a humorous touch to our nightly routine. Overall, the simplicity of the setting combined with the natural beauty made it a deeply memorable and heartwarming experience.
Tips & Things to Know Before You Go
- Pack Essentials Smartly: Your main backpack will be strapped to the motorcycle, so have a small daypack for items you need easy access to. A 30L backpack is ideal for your main belongings.
- Check the Weather: Weather can change quickly, especially as you ascend to higher altitudes. Pack warm attire such as layers and gloves, depending on the season.
- Consider Hiring an Easyrider: While riding through the mountains can be thrilling, sitting in the back seat allows you to fully enjoy the breathtaking views. It’s also safer to travel with locals who are experienced with the narrow, winding paths.
My SoTravel Experience: Trip Review & Favourite Moments
Having spent four whole days together riding and braving the cold, my driver and I formed a unique bond. Despite our limited verbal communication, the shared experiences and mutual trust created a deep connection. Every gesture and action conveyed care and camaraderie. He consistently ensured my safety, insisting I wear my gear, and his attentiveness made me feel protected.
There were moments of silent understanding and laughter, like when he attempted to teach me how to ride his manual motorcycle. Although I couldn’t grasp the mechanism or his instructions, the effort and patience he showed were heartwarming. Riding through the stunning landscapes of Ha Giang, facing the elements together, and relying on each other for support and companionship forged a friendship that transcended language barriers. This bond became one of the most memorable aspects of my Ha Giang Loop adventure.
Going with SoTravel also meant meeting friends as adventurous as I am. Among the variety of people, there will always be someone to vibe with. Back in Singapore, we met up for dinner and went on an impromptu slingshot ride at Clarke Quay—something I would never have imagined doing with my close friends in Singapore.
SoTravel Adventures
The Ha Giang Loop ignited my zest for adventure. I was so captivated by the experience that I embarked on three more trips with SoTravel. Among them were two exhilarating snowboarding adventures, where I eagerly navigated down snowy slopes and glided through powdery terrain (and fell a lot too). Additionally, I took part in the lively festivities of Songkran Water Festival, enjoying the playful water fights and festive vibe that brought laughter and new friendships. Each of these experiences deepened my love for discovering new places and cultures, turning every moment into a cherished memory.
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