Touring in Asia

[alimey]

Hiya

Have toured in Thailand, Vietnam, Burma, Sri Lanka & India. Friends have been to Laos. It is a really fabulous region to tour - my absolute favourite. It is extremely safe. Women don't attract undue attention when wearing skimpy clothing - although no one understands why a rich white person would choose to be on a bike! I have had many experiences of being separated from my group & cycling on my own when a group of lads come by on motorbikes on on a truck. They often ask where you are from - but are very polite & don't bother you at all. Mostly people wave & sometimes even salute. I generally get encouraged because they think I am in a race because I have a helmet on & am wearing lycra.

I have come across nothing but extreme politeness & helpfulness. The food is virtually always fantastic, the beer is cold & everything is cheap. Camping is not really an option (not many/any campsites) - but it's very cheap to stay in a guesthouse or hut.

For a first-timer to Asia I would suggest Vietnam - maybe combined with a train?