S1 E57 | Cycling Through the Rice Fields of Mai Chau, Vietnam

In this episode of our Vietnam travel series, we woke up to rice fields right outside our VND 200,000 (INR 680) homestay in Mai Chau. Breakfast was simple and included with the stay, giving us the perfect start to a day of slow travel.

Instead of chasing big attractions, we chose to take the free bicycles and cycle through the small lanes of Mai Chau and take in the untouched beauty around us. The green fields, towering mountains, and quiet roads made it feel like we had the entire valley to ourselves. Along the way, we waved to farmers, met curious locals, and admired how life here still revolved around agriculture and traditional homes built on stilts.

Mai Chau reminded us of Ninh Binh in many ways, but without the crowds. It felt raw and real — a place where tourism hadn’t taken over yet. Cycling through the fields was more than an activity; it was the experience that defined this trip.

We ended the day with a peaceful dinner by the fields, watching the sun set behind the mountains. The simplicity and charm of Mai Chau left such an impression on us that we can’t recommend it enough. If you’re visiting Vietnam, spend at least one night here to soak in the village life at your own pace.