Common Mistakes on First-Time Adventure Travel to the East - Northwest

Not planning ahead, speeding, or traveling just for Facebook check-ins are common mistakes that many young travelers make on their adventurous journeys.

Common Mistakes on First-Time Adventure Travel to the East - Northwest

Each individual has a unique approach to experiencing the beauty of the Northern mountainous region, yet many fall into widespread mistakes on their initial journey here.

Neglecting Advance Itinerary Planning

Irrespective of the destination, to maximize cost and time efficiency, it is essential to craft a detailed plan and itinerary. The Eastern and Northwestern loop offers numerous enticing destinations, including Mai Chau (Hoa Binh), Moc Chau, Ta Xua (Son La), Mu Cang Chai (Yen Bai), Sapa, O Quy Ho (Lao Cai), Hoang Su Phi, Ha Giang City, Dong Van, Meo Vac (Ha Giang), Ban Gioc Waterfall (Cao Bang), and Bac Son (Lang Son),...

Not many people can dedicate an entire journey to conquer the entire Northern mountainous region. However, if you can arrange the most reasonable schedule, you need at least 10 days to traverse and experience a loop of destinations here.

The Northern mountains are a piece of land that cannot be visited just once. It's better to break down the itinerary, conquering each short arc in different seasons. For example, this time until early October is a beautiful period to spend 3 days on the Hanoi – Mu Cang Chai – Nghia Lo adventure, admiring the ripe rice terraces in Mu Cang Chai.

The Dong – Northwest Bac winding pass is treacherous and very dangerous to navigate in the evening. Without careful research on the itinerary to choose the most suitable route, you may return with quite a disappointment.

Neglecting pre-trip vehicle maintenance

A fatal mistake of many first-time mountain travelers in the North is being too casual with their 'travel companions.' Remember, the mountainous terrain is completely different from the flat roads with steep slopes and rocky paths. Motorcycles, if not given an oil change and checked for oil leaks, headlights, brakes, and horns, can be very dangerous for the rider.

It's not a coincidence that the rental services for motorcycles in highland provinces are twice as expensive as in other tourist spots like Da Nang or Phu Yen. The manual bikes often have to endure challenging steep slopes or landslide roads in Bac Yen or Ha Giang. Therefore, one thing that no one should overlook is to treat your vehicle well before embarking on a challenging journey.

Note that repair shops in highland areas are scarce and hard to find, so don't forget to prepare and keep a set of tools in the trunk.

Exceeding the allowed speed

Many inexperienced long-distance drivers often 'encounter' traffic police several times. Many people drive quite fast on relatively sparse and airy roads in the highlands, so they often overlook signs indicating densely populated areas. Many motorbike enthusiasts are fined for basic mistakes due to their own carelessness. Traffic checkpoints are quite strict, and many bikers 'encounter' traffic police in Ham Yen (Tuyen Quang province).

So, pay attention to observing roadside signs and reduce speed to avoid unnecessary troubles.

Wearing skirts and high heels

Many girls have dreamed of capturing beautiful moments in front of hills covered with pink and white buckwheat flowers or lush green grass, as seen on the internet.

However, when in the mountainous region, one minimal thing to avoid is wearing cumbersome attire that hinders movement. Instead, opt for a bold and vigorous style with comfortable pants and soft shoes to protect your feet. Additionally, if possible, prepare leg and arm armor to avoid strong collisions with unfamiliar objects, protective eyewear, a 3/4 head helmet, gloves, and a full face mask.

Traveling just for Facebook check-ins

In the midst of the booming trend of backpacking, many young enthusiasts have forsaken the spirit of exploration and real experiences for their journeys. Instead, some invest their time, energy, and money solely in capturing check-in photos and marking territory. The Northeast to Northwest is vibrant and showcases the diverse cultures of various ethnic groups. Therefore, based on the experience of those who have gone before, the time spent at each destination should not be less than a day; otherwise, it's just a one-time visit for you.

Or some may rush due to time constraints, wanting to cover a lot in a short span. However, attempting to do too much in one trip will spoil the entire experience and the aspirations of that journey. You'll end the trip feeling dissatisfied and exhausted.

Turn your journeys into gateways to new worlds rather than locks closing you in after each return.

Source: Vnexpress

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Reference: Travel guide on Mytour