Sa Pa - Lao Cao - Hanoi
Kilometers Traveled: 33.9
It was time to leave Sa Pa. A part of me couldn't wait to get back to lower ground and higher temperatures, but a part of me felt a bit sad that the ride to Lao Cai would be our last long ride along the countryside. We were nearing the end of our pedaling spree. When we touch down in Lao Cai, our bikes and bodies will be on an overnight train to Hanoi.
Bags are packed and ready to roll.
We were not particularly thrilled about this downhill ride to Lao Cai because of the chill. I wore damp gloves - baaaad idea. Frozen fingers would be a safety hazard, as it would impair my ability to brake properly. G-third had me stop so I could borrow dry gloves from Levi.
On the way down, we had a last look at Sa Pa's mountain views:
Touchdown Lao Cai, where the weather was still cool but clear and dry. We take a snack break - we had a bit of time to kill before our train leaves for Hanoi.
Bicycles without their riders
The riders in a narrow car train hallway
We were onboard what they called a "hard sleeper". Basically it was a room with six bunk beds built into it - three on each wall. The beddings consisted of a thin mattress, a pillow and a blanket. The mattresses were not the most comfortable, but with a little reading and the train's gentle rocking motions, I found myself drifting off to a fitful sleep.
As the train crossed towns, the day crossed into the next, which was January 11th, my 31st birthday. It was actually the very first birthday I had spent away from home, away from all things familiar and comfortable. And though this was the case, I felt, strangely enough, at peace. And deeply happy and grateful for all the things I've done and seen these past 12 days.
There was something intangibly right about this trip. I'd say, a lot of things were. A perfect combination of destinations, traveling companions and animo.
To G-third, Pen and Levi, thank you for showing this weekend warrior the wonders of the seeing the world on two wheels.
Until the next cycling adventure!
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