Digby's Journal

Gasoline, Grit and the Great Escape

Field notes, reflections, and insights gathered over decades of exploring Asia’s backroads. Browse our motorcycle touring journal and see where the trail has taken us.

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650cc Russian Ural and 125cc Belarusian Minsk motorcycles are pieces of motorcycling history. Here are a few times they've been in the spotlight.
Rally Indochina was a motorcycle charity rally that raised US$250,000 for Blue Dragon Children's Foundation. It was joined by riders from all over the world.
In 2019 Digby found the crash site of a USAF jet fighter that was shot down over Laos in 1968.
One of the world’s most popular shows teamed up with Explore Indochina to make TV magic. Top Gear: Vietnam Special was absolutely legendary.
We've spent more than 20 years exploring and the Ho Chi Minh Trail in Laos, and have compiled this set of images comparing what it looked like then with now.
Cluster bombs, shell casings, and original cobblestoned sections of the Ho Chi Minh Trail can still be seen in Laos. Explore our massive Ho Chi Minh Trail image gallery.
UXO in Laos remains a major hazard after extensive bombing. Around 80 million unexploded devices still impact land use, agriculture, and daily safety across the country.
For Gordon's Great Escape, great Gordon Ramsay cooked up a storm, was polite as a bluebell, and wanted to buy our 650cc Ural motorcycle.
Riding the legendary Ho Chi Minh Trail in Laos combines remote jungle terrain, historic wartime routes and logistical challenges. Experienced riders gain access to original trail sections.