Field Notes
The Oblique Route Blog:
Destination Guides, Trip Reports, & Travel Tips
How to See Angkor Wat by Bicycle: A Self-Guided Itinerary
Most people who visit Angkor Wat pay up to $70 a day for a driver to take them around the same well-worn circuit to the same crowded sites that everyone else sees.
There’s a better way. A way that is cheaper, more flexible, and more rewarding. For just a few dollars, you can rent a bike and see all the famous ruins at your own pace as well as some others that the group tours rarely stop at, all while avoiding the worst of the crowds.
Here’s how to do it.
The Ultimate 2-Week “Active Travel” Itinerary for South Korea
When you think of "active travel destinations" South Korea might not be the first country that comes to mind. But with its mountainous terrain and hundreds of kilometers of well-maintained bike touring routes, Korea actually has a lot to offer travelers seeking some outdoor adventure. There's a lot of natural beauty packed into this little peninsula, and the best way to see it is from a national park trail or the saddle of a road bike.
This itinerary pairs hiking in Seoraksan National Park with four days of cycling along the Jeju Fantasy Bike Path, plus built-in days for rest, recovery, and exploration in Sokcho, Jeju, and Seoul.
Cycling South Korea’s Jeju Island
Every Korean knows that Jeju Island is special – for Korean nationals, it has long been the go-to domestic holiday destination. However, Jeju still flies under the radar for many international travelers. I’ve now been to Jeju seven times and counting, and I keep going back because in a country that feels largely homogeneous, Jeju is distinct. On this particular trip, I had the opportunity to see the island from a whole new perspective – on two wheels, from the saddle of my Trek Domane AL 2 road bike. For active, adventurous travelers who want an immersive experience that is truly off the beaten path, a cycling tour along the Jeju Fantasy Bike Path is one of the most authentic and rewarding ways to explore this remarkable island.
Let’s start the conversation
Whether you have a fully formed trip idea or just a vague sense that you'd like to go somewhere new — I'd love to hear from you. There are no silly questions and no obligation. Just send me a message and I'll be in touch within 48 hours to start the conversation.