But ironically no actual sunset because of the smog. Ninh Binh also has karst formations like the ones we went to see in China and Emily thought it would be a cool opportunity to see them again in another country. I pieced together two different rides I found on the web exploring the rice paddies and karst formations to the north and the karst formations and tourist attractions to the south. When we left Hanoi, the AQI was bad. We were hoping the air quality would be better in Ninh Binh but the smog was just as bad. So unfortunate since the views would’ve been gorgeous. We decided to have something to eat and get a coffee/tea before starting. We were right near Forest Sunset that had seating outside with a pond in front of the view of the karst formations. The drinks and pho were pretty good. On the way down, our driver made one of those tourist gift shop pit stops. When we got out of the car, it was a little chilly and we were worried it was going to be cold. At Forest Sunset, when the wind was blowing, it was chilly but by the time we got rolling, it felt fine. On the way out to the northern loop, we were on some big roads with truck traffic that was unpleasant. Making it worse than the smog was already making it, they were also burning the grass next to the road so there was thick smoke at times too. We could see several times, a smaller road or trail paralleling the big road we were on. They didn’t show up on our maps but would’ve been the better choice as they reconnected to the route. Later, we did try our luck several times and it usually ended up in a dead end but they were fun to try nonetheless. We also did a lot of out-n-backs to check out the sights but the roads or trails never usually got us close enough before someone would direct us to park our bikes. I tried to get a video of Emily and I was fumbling with my phone when Emily asked, “What are you doing over there? I’m coming over there to get some video.” We often have the same idea at the same time to get a shot. 😂 The north loop wasn’t what either of us expected. It was way more built up and residential. I thought it would just be rice paddies and farms. On the way back we decided to go back to Forest Sunset for lunch. Their pond had developed some white pond scum since the morning and was less picturesque. Their smoothies were delicious but lunch was just okay. I was craving a burger and fries. The burger fell apart as I was eating it and the fries were over-cooked. Emily’s Chicken Sandwich was just okay. A cute pomeranian came over to get its belly rubbed as we ordered a second round of drinks. When we left, the server (owner?), who was pretty stoked that we returned for a second time today, excitedly waved goodbye to us and said, “See you tomorrow.” Little did she know we had considered coming back for dinner before but I don’t think the food would have warranted it. The second half of the ride, while still smoggy, was much more scenic and there was a lot more gravel, albeit pretty rough at times. Overall, it was far more enjoyable. Even though we were right in amongst the karst formations in China, in Ninh Binh it really felt like we were in them, up close and personal. There were way more tourists - either on cruiser bikes or on the river in boats.