A New Companion on the Road
On August 28th, just days into my journey, everything changed. I had been talking with a group of university students the night before, sharing stories about bicycle travel. One of them whispered almost to himself, "I want to try cycling too…"
I replied casually, "If you're serious, I'll tell you where to meet me." To my surprise, he didn't hesitate. He simply said, "I'll come."
I thought it was just the excitement of the moment. After all, buying a bicycle isn't like grabbing a snack—it takes commitment. But the next day, he actually showed up.
Learning Through Struggles
He had already chosen a bicycle, and now it was time to prepare it for travel. That meant practicing how to pack it into a bag for the plane. For a first-timer, it's a real challenge—every piece feels complicated, from attaching the chain to setting the wheels.
I stood by, resisting the urge to help too much. I wanted him to find his own rhythm. And he did—within just five minutes, he had the tire mounted correctly. His determination and quick learning amazed me.
All that remained was sliding the bike into the bag. He managed it with ease. I was glad I had given him my spare bag—it wasn't just a tool; it became a bridge into his new adventure.
What touched me most was when he looked up and said, "When I return home, I'll keep cycling." I'm no professional, but to inspire someone like that—to leave them wanting more—was a gift I hadn't expected.
Joy in Small Discoveries
With the bicycle ready, we wandered to a food stall just a minute away. What we found was unforgettable—the best meal I've had in Vietnam so far. The flavors were rich, the atmosphere warm, and the owner greeted us with such lively kindness that everything felt perfectly aligned in that moment.
Later, he picked up his bicycle with pure excitement in his eyes. Seeing him ride for the first time, I couldn't help but smile. He looked like he had been cycling for years. Whether or not he becomes a serious cyclist, I hope this joy stays with him as a lifelong passion.
The Day’s Closing Moments
On the way home, heavy rain fell, soaking us completely. My old wooden sandals didn't survive, but I held onto them anyway, hoping they could be repaired.
That evening, I stopped by a small café run by Europeans. Ho Chi Minh City is full of such places—tucked into narrow streets, each with its own charm. I like how easy they are to step into, how they welcome anyone.
It was a day of new beginnings, shared laughter, and the quiet realization that travel is not only about the miles but about the bonds created along the way.
