Tour of Vietnam 2023 | Day 3 | Hanoi – Cat Ba | 158 kms

Woke up at 6 am, quickly freshened up, retrieved my bike, paid 55,000 VND for 3-day parking, returned to the hostel, loaded 2 front side bags, lubricated clutch cables and linkages, and packed remaining luggage. Visited Maison Central jail/Hoi La prison in Hanoi around 10:30 am, entry fee of 30,000 VND. Enjoyed the bike ride and explored the jail with an audio guide and map.

It was a busy Sunday with many visitors exploring 35 points of interest related to the early stages of the Vietnam Revolution and the later Vietnamese War with America. Spending 2.5 hours immersed in the detailed exhibits, I left around 1pm to return to the hostel, load my belongings onto my bike, and stop by the Ceramic wall art near the hostel for a memorable photo with the stunning mural. This marked my final experience in the city before heading towards Cat Ba Island.

Google Maps indicates a 128 km distance with a 2.5-hour travel estimate. Adapting to Vietnamese roads by observing others’ riding styles, I appreciate wearing my winter gear as the sudden chill and intermittent winds set in. Maintaining a steady speed of 50-60 km/h, I cautiously stick to the 60 km/h speed limit, wary of the consequences of breaking the rules. Enjoying the well-maintained roads with minimal potholes for smooth riding, I take a break after 50 km to eat, enduring discomfort and numbness in my hands due to the persistent cold weather.

The weather is colder than expected, so my leather gloves aren’t enough. I snack on energy bars and treats from my mom while sipping green tea I bought for 5000 VND. A stranger in ‘Hai Phong’ city helps me get back on track after a wrong turn during my non-stop drive towards my destination.

I pass through Hai Phong city on my way to Cat Ba Island. A stranger corrects my route, guiding me for 5 km before I continue over a long bridge. Arriving at Cat Ba, I initially take the wrong path but am aided by another stranger who directs me to the ferry terminal. After a short wait, I board the ferry, paying 45,000 VND. The journey takes 30 minutes, and I eventually reach Cat Ba.

The city entrance is adorned with lights on a curved fixture that reads “Welcome to Cat Bá.” I pause to capture a photo in the dark, illuminated by the multiple lights of the circular arch painting the surroundings.

I search the map for homestays, prioritizing well-rated ones. Finding one with only pricey private rooms, I opt for a dorm at Woodstock Hostel nearby. There, I get a bunk bed for 120,000 VND or 150,000 VND with breakfast. The hostel’s trendy decor appeals to young travelers, with ambient lighting, a pool, and ample seating. After freshening up, I dine at their bar, enjoying Chicken fried rice with Scrambled eggs, and book a Cat Ba island tour for the next day. Later, I relax by a fire pit, jot down in my diary, and turn in by 10:30 after setting my alarm for 6 am.