The family of a British teenager have paid a heartfelt tribute to their daughter, who tragically died following a motorcycle crash on a popular tourist route in Vietnam. Orla Wates, aged 19, lost her life after an incident on the Ha Giang loop in northern Vietnam, according to reports from Viet Nam News.
Family's Emotional Tribute to Orla Wates
Orla Wates was described by her parents, Andrew and Henrietta Wates, as "beautiful, independent and very funny, with a sharp wit." In a statement to Viet Nam News, they expressed that she loved to look good and lived life to the full, embracing every moment with enthusiasm.
Organ Donation Brings Comfort in Grief
At this immensely difficult time, the family made the compassionate decision to donate Orla's organs, believing it was what she would have wanted. Her mother expressed gratitude to the Viet Duc university hospital in Hanoi and its ICU team for their care, stating that knowing Orla lives on through others brings great comfort.
"At this extremely difficult time for our family, we chose to donate Orla's organs, as we believe that if there were a way to give opportunity to others, this is what Orla would have wanted," her mother said. "Knowing that she is living on through them brings us great comfort."
Father's Reflections on Vietnam
In an interview shared on the hospital's social media page, Orla's father highlighted her love for Vietnam. "Vietnam was a country she loved and so to give back to Vietnam as well I think is very important for us," he remarked. Her mother added, "She had the best time here, she was loving every minute of it. So it is our way of thanking you."
Details of the Ha Giang Loop Accident
The Ha Giang loop is a scenic road trip spanning approximately 220 miles (350km) through the mountainous regions near the Chinese border in Vietnam. It is a favoured destination among tourists, often undertaken on motorcycles over three to four days. Inexperienced riders frequently join group tours with operators, which can pose risks on the challenging routes.
Foreign Office Support and Response
The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) confirmed that its consular staff are providing support to Orla Wates's family during this tragic period. An FCDO spokesperson stated, "Our thoughts are with the family and friends of Orla Wates, following her tragic death in Vietnam. We are in touch with the local authorities, and our consular staff are doing all they can to support Orla's family at this hugely difficult time."
Orla Wates was taken to the Viet Duc university hospital in Hanoi after the crash, where she later died. The incident underscores the dangers associated with motorcycle travel in unfamiliar terrains, even on popular tourist circuits like the Ha Giang loop.
