Chau Doc to Ha Tien

Thursday December 7, 2017, 58 miles (94 km) - Total so far: 2,415 miles

(3,887 km)

Nice, easy riding today, although with a couple of undulations which actually made a welcome change. There wasn't even much traffic leaving Chau Doc. The route is quite colourful for the first part, especially around Sam Mountain (which, incidentally, looks like it would be good for a night - lots of guesthouses and a couple of temples to check out, plus the mountain of course). We followed the 'main' road to Tinh Bien, then turned onto the 955A/N1 which runs along the canal and close to the Cambodia border. The road is largely in good condition, although with some bumpy sections. Things become a lot less populous, with lovely views.

https://www.strava.com/activities/1305344736

Ed had a puncture at around the 70km mark, but there was plenty of shade in which to get sorted. Then it happened again with a couple of km to go....which was unfortunate as at that point, you're on the road into Ha Tien which is busy (and also very bumpy - possibly the cause!) A couple of Vietnamese guys stood and watched the debacle of us trying to fix it (tip - don't bother with patching when you're very tired, very hot and very hungry!). Got there in the end with a spare tube which is too big for the tyre really but did the job.

We headed straight for the Oasis bar, as we thought they might have chips. They didn't, but they do have good Western / Thai options. We went back for dinner too, at which point the owner was there. He is great to chat to, and a real mine of information about the local area. We also had a beer at one of the riverfront bars - very pleasant indeed. We did feel a bit like we should eat like locals on our last day, but hey ho!

We are staying at the Kim Phat guesthouse. It's a great option - nothing fancy, but has everything you need (comfy, clean, hot shower, fridge, indoor bike parking) and is just 200,000 dong for a double room.

Cambodia tomorrow!