Vietnam forum

I spent 9 days on the back of a bike from Dalat to HCMC and then down into the Mekong Delta - and can say that it was truly one of the best experiences that I had while travelling. (I have written about it in the past on the forums so you may find some old posts). I was travelling with a friend at the time so we had two bikes, but I seriously would have no hesitation on going back and doing it on my own with a guide.

If you were wanting to go to Dalat (central highlands) I could recommend the guy that I used. I actually gave his details to a woman that I corresponded with here in NZ, then met up with her afterwards and she was very happy with how it turned out. You will find guys from EasyRiders lurking around the place - Dalat, Hoi An - and I'm sure in the other towns. The 'genuine' EasyRiders have the black and blue jackets. I'm sure that there other good groups around as well - but what I like about the ER's is that they have standards that their riders are supposed to conform to. We ran into other motorbike guides that were out drinking big-time with their riders at night - and I wouldn't want to entrust my life to someone with a hangover the next morning on Vietnam roads! ER's don't allow that (in theory, anyhow).

If you find someone you're interested in hiring, take the time to have a cup of coffee with them first and ask them questions (like a job interview!). You need reassurance that you've found someone that you will want to spend a few days with and that you will feel safe with. And then you can ask him if his fellow-riders have any planned trips to the same area that you are going to... maybe you join some others.

Whatever you end up doing - enjoy!