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From Backpacker to Vintage Vespa Collector in Vietnam

Writer: Steve MuellerSteve Mueller

Updated: Dec 5, 2024

When I first arrived in Vietnam as a young backpacker in 1996, I was enchanted by everything—the sights, the sounds, the rich layers of culture. But what really caught my attention was something unexpected: those beautiful vintage Vespas zipping through the streets. “As a backpacker, I came here in 1996, and I thought the coolest one out there was these old Italian scooters called Vespas,” I often recall with a smile. They weren’t just scooters; they were time capsules, holding a piece of history, and I wanted to be a part of that story.


A vibrant group of Vespa enthusiasts riding colorful vintage Vespa scooters under palm trees, celebrating retro scooter culture.

I started buying these vintage Vespas whenever I could, captivated by the stories embedded in their scratched frames and worn-out seats. Each Vespa I found wasn’t just a machine; it was a connection to the past, a symbol of a slower, more mindful way of experiencing the world. In a way, collecting these Vespas was like collecting memories of Vietnam, one ride at a time. I’d take them on rides through bustling markets, past pagodas, along coastal roads, immersing myself deeper into Vietnamese culture with every mile.


Over time, my collection grew from a single Vespa to dozens. These bikes became more than a collection; they became a way for me to share the Vietnam I had fallen in love with. Every Vespa, with its distinct quirks and character, offered a new experience, a new perspective on the country’s rich culture. I began restoring these machines, bringing them back to life not just for myself, but for anyone who wanted to experience Vietnam through the lens of a vintage Vespa.


A collection of parked vintage Vespa scooters in various colors with a tropical background, showcasing the charm of classic Vespas.

Today, Vespa Adventures allows travelers to do just that. You’re not just riding a scooter—you’re riding through history, experiencing Vietnam in a way that’s both nostalgic and exhilarating. Come join us, and let’s explore the soul of Vietnam, one Vespa ride at a time.From Backpacker to Vintage Vespa Collector in Vietnam

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