Vietnam Highlights
Vietnam Highlights
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Vietnam Highlights
Visiting: Vietnam
Tour operator:
Tour code:
GTVB
Specialist Group:
18-30 Somethings
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
1 - 16
Age range:
18-29 years
Trip Styles:
Activities:
Tour Overview
The Ho (Chi Minh) to the Hanoi. See how the locals live on on the Mekong Delta staying in a local guesthouse, then get your beach on in Nha Trang. Pagodas, history and yum yums galore in Hoi An and Hue. Drift the emerald waters of Halong Bay by boat and go for a snoop through any of Hanoi's many markets. This is your full-on trip up the coast of Vietnam and into Halong Bay. From hectic Ho Chi Minh City to historic Hanoi. Ready, set, pagoda.
Highlights
- This is one of the most popular trips in the entire Geckos range and a firm favourite with our travellers.
- Travel the length of Vietnam with a small group of like minded travellers your own age and an expert leader to make sure you get the best out of your time in each destination.
- Limestone karsts and mysterious caves - Halong Bay feels a world away from the world we live in. Many other tour groups just visit for the day - we stay overnight on the boat.
- It's not just boring hotels on this trip where you could be anywhere in the world. We mix it up with a guesthouse in the Mekong Delta, overnight trains and of course our night on board in Halong Bay.
- Where better to enjoy loads of free time than in the coastal city of Nha Trang, which features irresistable beaches, crazy-good snorkelling and even mud baths! Here's what you have in store for you: https://www.geckosadventures.com/tales/nha-trang-vietnam/
- There's great food wherever you go in Vietnam, but combine sumptuous snacks with cycling in the surrounding countryside and you will see why we love Hoi An. Check it out: https://www.geckosadventures.com/tales/5-awesome-things-hoi-vietnam/
- It's taken 400 million years for the Phong Nha Caves to look this good! Explore the spectacular scenery of underground rivers and caverns that form some of the world's largest caves.
Itinerary
Xin chao! Welcome to Vietnam. Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 6pm on Day 1. Please look for a note in the hotel lobby or ask the hotel reception where it will take place. If you're going to be late, please inform the hotel reception. We'll be collecting your insurance details and next of kin information at this meeting, so please ensure you have all these details to provide to your leader. Also known as Saigon, Ho Chi Minh City is characterised by a vast array of sights and sounds, and is a fascinating blend of old and new. The huge number of people rushing about their daily lives in Vietnam's largest city gives it a dynamic atmosphere and the French influence is evident in the excellent baguettes sandwiches (banh mi) and coffee on offer. If you arrive early, this city has a vast array of sights and sounds to explore: ancient pagodas and cathedrals sit squarely up against the former Presidential Palace, historic Dong Khoi Street (the Rue Catinat from Graham Greene's novel, The Quiet American) and the bustling markets of Ben Thanh and Cholon (Chinatown). Many travellers choose to visit the Reunification Palace or War Remnants Museum here. If you don't want to explore on your own, consider booking one of our Urban Adventures before your arrive: https://www.urbanadventures.com/destination/ho-chi-minh-city-tours
Day 2 Mekong Delta
Travel by bus to the Mekong Delta today (approx 3 hours). Explore Ben Tre, where coconut is everything and everywhere. Coconut candy anyone? The fertile delta is famous for its abundant harvests of tropical fruits and flowers as well as its waterways. Board a private boat and cruise along the maze of waterways to visit some local cottage industries. Then head to a guesthouse, our home for the night. Lunch and dinner are included today, so fill up on typical Vietnamese staples and enjoy some home cooking.
Day 3 Ho Chi Minh City - Overnight Train
Wake to dawn on the Delta and enjoy a simple breakfast before getting back on the boat and then bus back to Ho Chi Minh City. You'll have a bit of free time here to squeeze in more sightseeing or street food. Shared hotel rooms will be available today between up to 6 members of the group, so you can prepare or repack if needed before your train journey. Late this afternoon transfer to the train station and board our first overnight train to Nha Trang (approx 11 hours). Settle in for the night and enjoy the experience of snoozing as you snake through the countryside, knowing you'll wake up in a new and exciting destination tomorrow morning.
Day 4 Nha Trang
Arrive in Nha Trang at approximately 5am and transfer to your hotel. As it's early we may not be able to check in right away, but there's always a cafe selling Vietnamese coffee nearby to perk us up. We will have shared use hotel rooms before regular check in. Nha Trang is one of Vietnam's most popular beach side cities. In recent years it has ended up on every Chinese and Russian tourist's bucket list, which means that you'll see plenty of other travellers around town. Still, Nha Trang's sandy palm-lined beach and island-dotted bay make an idyllic picture. Spend your days here soaking up the sun on the beach, exploring the local markets or checking out the ancient Cham Towers nearby. Make sure you try some of the excellent seafood restaurants - you are right by the sea after all! There are Urban Adventures available here too. Check them out here: https://www.urbanadventures.com/destination/Nha-Trang-tours. Your leader can help you to book.
Day 5 Nha Trang - Overnight train
Today is the day is all yours! Fit in some more time seaside or maybe check out the mud baths. There's also a palace near here known as the Bao Dai Villa. Board our next overnight train late in the evening, this time bound for Danang (approx. 8 hours).
Day 6 Hoi An
Arrive in Danang around 7am and travel by private vehicle to Hoi An (approx 1 hr). Declared a World Heritage site, Hoi An is being beautifully restored and preserved. Today, parts of Hoi An look exactly as they did more than a century ago and it retains the feel of centuries past, making it the sort of place that grows on you the more you explore it. It's also a shopping mecca – with so much to browse and buy. Spend your hard earned pocket money on original paintings, handcrafted woodwork, ceramics, embroidery, lanterns and more. Hoi An has also become famous for its tailoring, with a great variety of fabrics and tailors to choose from. Bring your favourite piece of clothing or even just a picture, and you'll be able to have it copied. Sweet! It's not just shopping here though. Your leader will take you on a walk through the old town streets and cooking classes here are always a hit. Of course, there's Urban Adventures here too: https://www.urbanadventures.com/destination/Hoi-An-tours
Day 7 Hoi An
This one of our favourite days of the trip! There's no better way to explore the peaceful countryside of Hoi An than by bike. Your leader will take you to places not every tourist gets the chance to see, past green rice paddies and small creeks and out into rural Vietnam. It's a leisurely cycle, no need to be a professional. In the afternoon you might like to head out to the My Son ruins, the most extensive legacy of the Cham dynasty in Vietnam or take a boat trip along the river.
Day 8 Hue
Departing Hoi An by bus, we pass by My Khe Beach before crossing the dramatic Hai Van Pass to the picturesque fishing village of Lang Co. After a quick break here, continue on to Hue. Total travel time is usually 5 hours, including stops. As the former imperial capital of Vietnam, Hue holds the treasures of Vietnam's royal past and is a curious mix of bustling streets and tranquil settings. Your afternoon is free to explore. The Dong Ba market, which sells everything imaginable, is a great place to spend some time. Visit the Imperial Citadel, including the Forbidden Purple City. The latter was almost totally destroyed during the Vietnam War's Tet Offensive, but the foliage-covered ruins are still atmospheric and the gaping holes left by bombs give an idea of the destruction wreaked upon the country during the war as well as a glimpse of the distant past.
Day 9 Hue
Today is another free day. Some favourites are dragon boating on the Perfume River or visiting Thien Mu Pagoda, considered by many to be the symbol of Hue. It's an active Buddhist monastery with its origins dating back to 1601. One of the most poignant displays inside is a car belonging to a former monk who, in 1963, drove to Saigon and set himself alight to protest against the treatment of Buddhists by the South Vietnamese regime.
Day 10 Phong Nha NP
Bus your way to Phong Nha today, around 4 hours journey. On the way there's the chance to check out the Hien Luong Bridge – it's smack bang on the 17th Parallel, so it separated the North from the South during the war. You can also choose to head underground at Vinh Moc, an expansive network of limestone tunnels that locals used as shelters from the bombing. Travel on and take the afternoon to explore your surroundings. You'll stay just outside town, and there are loads of optional activities to take advantage of. Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park is an amazing landscape riddled with caves and underground rivers. Maybe take a boat through Phong Nha Cave, or check out one of the spectacular huge caverns such as the giant Paradise Cave.
Day 11 Phong Nha NP - Overnight train
Make the most of your time in Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park. This is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is the oldest karst (which basically means underground eroded limestone) mountain range in Asia. This bad boy is over 400 million years old so there's plenty to explore. Jump on one of the optional tours available or just take in this stunning scenery. Later today you'll head back to Dong Hoi and hop onto our final sleeper train, leaving around 8pm. You'll be pro at this now and know exactly what to do!
Day 12 Hanoi
Arrive in Hanoi very early (like 5.30am early!) and transfer to your hotel. Shared use hotel rooms are available at your hotel this morning before check in. The capital of Vietnam is a charming city with a population of over six million. Hanoi is famous for its beautiful lakes, shaded boulevards, verdant public parks and its thriving Old Quarter, which is an architectural museum piece with blocks of ochre buildings retaining the air of a 1930s provincial French town. As Vietnam develops to compete with other South-East Asian countries, the beautiful Hoan Kiem Lake reflects the contrasts of modern office buildings, old Buddhist temples and the tangle of ancient streets in its still surface. Take a walking tour of the Old Quarter with your leader. You'll visit Dong Xuan market, the biggest wholesale market in northern Vietnam and stroll through some of the ancient '36 streets' where you can discover an amazing selection of shops selling everything from souvenirs to exquisite silk clothing. For your free time today, see the Ho Chi Minh Complex and Mausoleum to learn more about the revered man himself, stop in at one of the many excellent museums (we highly recommend the unique Womens Museum) or take in some more war history.
Day 13 Halong Bay
Travel by private minibus (approximately 4 hours) to the awesome World Heritage site of Halong Bay. This secluded harbour has something like 2,000 little limestone islands. And the water is one pretty green scene. It's one of Vietnam's most 'scenic' places, so get that camera ready. You'll jump on a boat and cruise the bay so you can take it all in. You'll explore some of the awesome caves in the area and fill up with both lunch and dinner onboard. What's on the menu? Seafood of course. Enjoy optional kayaking or swimming from Ti Top Beach in the warmer months. Once you settle into junk boat life you won't want to go anywhere – so spend the night rocking away on the waters of Halong Bay (with the waves and maybe a spot of karaoke).
Day 14 Hanoi
Perhaps wake up early if you want to practice some Tai Chi on the deck. All that is left to do is enjoy another meal prepared by your crew as you cruise on in to port around midday. Take a bus back to Hanoi (approx. 3 hours) for some free time and a optional final group dinner.
Day 15 Hanoi
The trip ends in the morning today. There are no activities planned for the final day and you are able to depart the accommodation at any time. For those staying on longer, there are Urban Adventures to keep you busy. Check them out here and ask your leader to book for you: https://www.urbanadventures.com/destination/hanoi-tours
What's Included
-
Meals
2 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 2 dinners
-
Accommodation
Guesthouse (2 nights), Hotel (8 nights), Overnight boat (1 night), Overnight sleeper train (3 nights)
Accommodation
- Guesthouse (2 nights), Hotel (8 nights), Overnight boat (1 night), Overnight sleeper train (3 nights)
Transport
- Boat , Private bus , Private vehicle , Overnight sleeper train
Included Activities
- Mekong Delta - Boat cruise and guesthouse
- Hoi An - Old Town walking tour
- Hoi An - Countryside bicycle tour
- Hanoi - Old Quarter Walking Tour
- Halong Bay - Overnight boat cruise
Notes
Style
Geckos
Themes
Adventure,Beach
Joining point
Aston Hotel Saigon
27-29 Bui Vien Street, Pham Ngu Lao Ward
District 1
Ho Chi Minh City
VIETNAM
Phone: +84 838389988
Joining point description
The Aston Hotel Saigon is centrally located in District 1, under 10 minutes walk to Ben Thanh Market and close to the city centre, Notre Dame Cathedral and the Reunification Palace. The hotel is approximately 30 minutes from the Tan Son Nhat International Airport. This small hotel of 40 rooms also offers 24 hour reception, luggage storage and complimentary WiFi throughout. Rooms features include air conditioning, a flat-screen cable television, and a private bathroom.
Joining point instructions
Intrepid are able to assist with pre-booking an arrival transfer from the airport - enquire with your agent. Please advise your flight arrival details at least 14 days prior to your departure. If you have pre-booked an airport transfer you will be met on as you exit the Customs Hall by a transfer representative holding an Intrepid sign with your name on it. If you cannot find your transfer representative, or if your flight is delayed, please call our hotline at +84 903 117 770. Additionally proceed to Column 12 outside the International Arrival terminal. Your driver will wait here if you do not meet upon arrival. Please note that neither the driver nor any representative should ask you for additional payment. Metered taxis are readily available as you leave the customs hall and cost approximately US$10 (VND220000). Avoid taxi touts who tell you that they have a metered taxi parked outside the airport.
Alternate Joining point
For trips departing on the following dates, use this joining point.
09 Jul 2018 (GTVB180709), 30 Jul 2018 (GTVB180730)
Blessing Central Saigon Hotel
267-269 Le Thanh Ton
District 1
Ho Chi Minh City
VIETNAM
Phone: 84 838242616
Alternate Joining point description
Blessing Central Hotel is centrally located within District 1, a 10 minute walk from Ben Thanh Market and the City Theatre. The hotel has 40 rooms each with free WiFi, air conditioning, a minibar, electric kettle, LCD TV and private bathroom with a hot/cold shower. The hotel features a 24 hour front desk, restaurant, computer station, laundry service, free WiFi in public areas is also provided.
Alternate Joining point instructions
Your sales agent is able to assist with pre-booking an arrival transfer from the airport. Please advise your flight arrival details at least 14 days prior to your departure. If you have pre-booked an airport transfer you will be met on as you exit the Customs Hall by a transfer representative holding a sign with your name on it. If you cannot find your transfer representative, or if your flight is delayed, please call our hotline at +84 903 117 770. Additionally proceed to Column 12 outside the International Arrival terminal. Your driver will wait here if you do not meet upon arrival. Please note that neither the driver nor any representative should ask you for additional payment. Metered taxis are readily available as you leave the customs hall and cost approximately US$10 (VND220000). Avoid taxi touts who tell you that they have a metered taxi parked outside the airport. Check in time is from 2pm.
Finish point
The Queen Hotel & Spa (formerly Indochina Queen II Hotel)
67 Thu?c B?c, Hàng B?,
Hoàn Ki?m
Hanoi
VIETNAM
Phone: +84 439233993
Finish point description
Indochina Queen II Hotel is centrally located in the heart of Ha Noi Old Quarter, only a few minutes walk to Hoan Kiem Lake, and surrounded by cafes, shops, restaurants, markets and bars. Indochina Queen II Hotel is a 40-minute drive from Noi Bai International Airport. The hotel has 35 rooms across 8 floors, with an on site restaurant, 24 hour reception, and luggage storage available. All rooms in hotel have free Wifi, private bathrooms, air conditioning, minibar, IDD telephone, a hair dryer, LCD TV with international channels, coffee and tea making facilities. Check in is from 2pm, check out is at 12 noon.
Finish point instructions
A departure transfer is available - enquire with your agent. If you have booked a post trip airport transfer, ask your leader to confirm the time of departure and meeting place. If you have any problems please call our hotline at +84 903 117 770. A metered taxi to the airport costs approx. US$10 (VND213,000) and takes approx. 30 minutes depending on traffic Check-out time from the hotel is 12 noon. If you are departing later, you can arrange luggage storage at the hotel.
Alternate Finish point
For trips departing on the following dates, use this finish point.
22 Feb 2018 (GTVB180222), 08 Mar 2018 (GTVB180308), 22 Mar 2018 (GTVB180322), 29 Mar 2018 (GTVB180329), 05 Apr 2018 (GTVB180405), 12 Apr 2018 (GTVB180412)
Hong Ngoc Tonkin Hotel (formerly Hong Ngoc 2)
14 Luong Van Can
Hoan Kiem
Hanoi
VIETNAM
Phone: +844 38267566
Alternate Finish point description
Located in the heart of the old quarter, the Hong Ngoc 2 has 40 guestrooms, all with air conditioning and en suite bathrooms. www.hongngochotel.com
Alternate Finish point instructions
A metered taxi to the airport costs approx. US$14 (VND230, 000) and takes approx. 45 minutes. A departure transfer is available - enquire with your agent. If you have booked a post trip airport transfer, ask your leader to confirm the time of departure and meeting place. If you have any problems please call our hotline at +84 903 117 770. Check-out time from the hotel is 12 noon. If you are departing later, you can arrange luggage storage at the hotel.
Group leader
All group trips are accompanied by one of our group leaders. The aim of the group leader is to take the hassle out of your travels and to help you have the best trip possible. We endeavour to provide the services of an experienced leader however, due to the seasonality of travel, rare situations may arise where your leader is new to a particular region or training other group leaders. Your leader will provide information on the places you are travelling through, offer suggestions for things to do and see, recommend great local eating venues and introduce you to our local friends. While not being guides in the traditional sense you can expect them to have a broad general knowledge of the places visited on the trip, including historical, cultural, religious and social aspects. We aim to support local guides who have specialised knowledge of the regions we visit. If you were interested in delving deeper into the local culture at a specific site or location then your leader can recommend a local guide service in most of the main destinations of your trip.
Safety
It is recommended that you check your government's advice for their latest travel information prior to your departure. Geckos strongly recommends the use of a neck wallet or money belt while travelling, for the safe-keeping of your passport, air tickets, cash and other valuable items. Please leave your valuable jewellery at home - you won't need it while travelling. Most of our hotels will have a safety deposit box, which is the most secure way of storing your valuables. A lock is recommended for securing your luggage. Your tour leader will accompany you on all included activities, however during your trip you'll have free time to pursue your own interests, relax and take it easy or explore at your leisure. While your tour leader will assist you with the available options in a given location, please note that any optional activities you undertake are not part of your itinerary, and Geckos makes no representations about the safety of the activity or the standard of the operators running them. Please use your own good judgement when selecting an activity in your free time. Please also note that your tour leader has the authority to amend or cancel any part of the trip itinerary if it's deemed necessary due to safety concerns. Fire Precautions: Please be aware that local laws governing tourism facilities in this region differ from those in your home country and not all the accommodation which we use has a fire exit, fire extinguishers or smoke alarms. Petty Theft and Personal Safety: While travelling there is always the risk of pick-pocketing and petty theft, particularly in the more touristy cities. We recommend that you exercise caution when walking alone at night and encourage you to walk together and only on main, well-lit thoroughfares. Be particularly vigilant on public transport. Simple measures like carrying your day pack on your front, not hanging your bag over the back of your chair and wearing a money belt will reduce any chance that your valuables should go missing. Seat Belts: Please be aware that local laws governing transportation safety may differ from those in the western world or from your home country and not all the transport which we use provides seat belts.
Bike Helmets: Please note that helmets are not always provided for sightseeing on bicycles. Please consider bringing a helmet from home if you want to wear a helmet on any biking activities.
Visas
As a general rule most countries expect that your passport has a minimum of 6 months validity remaining. Please ensure the name on your passport matches the name on your booking and airline tickets. Your passport details are required to complete your booking. Your consultant will contact you when this is required. Take a copy of the main passport pages and other important documents with you, and leave another copy at home with family or friends. Visas are the responsibility of the individual traveller. Entry requirements can change at any time, so it's important that you check for the latest information. Please visit the relevant consular website of the country or countries you’re visiting for detailed and up-to-date visa information specific to your nationality. Your consultant will also be happy to point you in the right direction with acquiring visas. Visas can take several weeks to process, so familiarise yourself with any requirements as soon as you have booked your trip to allow for processing time. VIETNAM VISA: Most nationalities require a visa to travel to Vietnam. Vietnam visas need to be arranged in advance. When obtaining your visa you should allow 3 weeks for processing, the cost is approximately US$60 to US$100. Check with your embassy or consulate for further details. Some nationalities are exempt from visas for a stay of a maximum of 15 days, including British, German, French, Spanish, Italian citizens travelling to Vietnam (for all purposes). This exemption period is currently effective until 30 June 2018, and is based upon meeting all conditions prescribed by Vietnamese laws. If you are planning on staying in Vietnam for longer than 15 days you will need to obtain a visa extension in advance (please contact your relevant Consulate or Embassy). Please also check requirements if you plan to re-enter Vietnam. An eVisa is available for some nationalities including passport holders from Australia (from 2018) France, Ireland, Italy, Germany, Spain, the United Kingdom and the United States of America, valid for a single entry of a maximum of 30 days stay in Vietnam. For information on obtaining an eVisa visit the immigration website: https://evisa.xuatnhapcanh.gov.vn/. Evisas take up to 3 days to be processed. You will need a clear electronic copy of your passport data page and passport photo, and to make a non-refundable payment as outlined on the immigration website. Keep the customs and immigration form you receive on arrival, as you need it to complete exit formalities on departure. If your visa application asks for a point of contact, please write: Geckos Vietnam 5th floor HiPT Building, 152 Thuy Khue Street, Thuy Khue, Tay Ho, Hanoi, Ph +84 4 3715 0996. Most nationalities do not require a letter of invitation for Vietnam but if you do need one, please contact your sales agent for more information.
Is this trip right for you
This trip includes three overnight train journeys, each one taking up to 12 hours. You'll be sharing a cabin with three to five other people and amenities with the rest of the carriage. Although the rides are long and the conditions basic, this is an awesome way to see Vietnam and travel alongside the locals. You'll be staying in a simple local guesthouse in the Mekong Delta, with basic bedding, dorm-style rooms, shared amenities and cold water only. Although the accommodation is basic, this is an authentic experience of life on the Delta with some delicious Vietnamese home-cooking! Vietnamese roads can be hectic and intimidating to cross. Never fear - your leader will show you how to do it like a local in Hanoi's Old Quarter. This trip is for travellers who appreciate a bit of independence. You'll get plenty of free time in each location to make your own choices and do your own activities. Your leader will always be there to give you tips and suggestions.
Health
All Geckos Adventures travellers need to be in good physical health in order to participate fully on this trip. When selecting your trip please make sure you have read through the itinerary carefully and assess your ability to cope with our style of travel. Please note that if, in the opinion of our group leader or local guide, any traveller is unable to complete the itinerary without undue risk to themselves and/or the rest of the group, Geckos Adventures reserves the right to exclude them from all or part of a trip without refund. ZIKA VIRUS Vietnam has reported transmission of the mosquito-borne Zika virus and we advise all travellers to protect themselves from mosquito bites. Given possible transmission of the disease to unborn babies, and taking a very cautious approach, pregnant women should consider postponing travel to Vietnam or talk to their doctor about possible implications. Please see further information about the Zika virus (and our current cancellation/change policy) on our safety page of the Geckos website at https://www.geckosadventures.com/safety-updates Dengue Fever: Rare instances of dengue fever have been reported in this region. This virus is transmitted by mosquitoes. There is no vaccination against it, but there are preventative measures that you can take such as wearing long clothing and always using repellent. Please note that this mosquito is most active during daylight hours however care should be taken at all times.
Food and dietary requirements
While travelling with us you'll experience the vast array of wonderful food available in the world. Your group leader will be able to suggest restaurants to try during your trip. To give you the maximum flexibility in deciding where, what and with whom to eat, generally not all meals are included in the trip price. This also gives you more budgeting flexibility. As a rule our groups tend to eat together to enable you to taste a larger variety of dishes and enjoy each other's company. There's no obligation to do this though.
Money matters
SPENDING MONEY: When it comes to spending money on the trip, every traveller is a little different. You know your spending habits better than we do, so please budget a sensible amount for things like meals not included, drinks, shopping, optional activities and laundry. It's always better to bring a little more than you think you'll need. Also make sure you've read your trip details thoroughly so you know what's included in the trip price and what isn't. This should make budgeting a little easier. You'll find this info in the Inclusions section of your Essential Trip Information (that's this document). MEALS NOT INCLUDED We recommend USD320 for meals not included. VIETNAM: The official currency of Vietnam is Dong (VND). US dollars are also accepted for some payments. It is almost impossible to change VND into US dollars without a flight ticket showing your onward destination. Only change money at official money exchange counters with a clear sign showing this status. Illegal exchange places like gold shops may offer a higher rate you may risk losing your money. Credit cards are becoming more widely accepted, but outside main centres you may find cash the only acceptable currency. It may be difficult to cash travellers’ cheques. ATMs are widely available in major cities and tourist areas. You can have funds transferred to Vietnam via international money transfer companies like Western Union or Moneygram. EMERGENCY FUNDS: We try to plan for every eventuality, but there are still some things beyond our control. Please make sure you bring an extra USD500 for emergencies (e.g. natural disasters or civil unrest). Sometimes these things necessitate last minute changes to our itineraries, and we can’t guarantee there won’t be some extra costs involved. Your Tour Leader: You may also consider tipping your tour leader for outstanding service throughout your trip. The amount is entirely a personal preference, however as a guideline US$2-US$4 per person, per day can be used. Of course you are free to tip more or less as you see fit, depending on your perception of service quality and the length of your trip. Remember, a tip is not compulsory and should only be given when you receive excellent service. Commissions: Unfortunately, commissions in exchange for recommending particular shops or restaurants are an ingrained part of the tourism industry. Rather than turning a blind eye though, we’ve tried to legitimise the practise with a centralised fund. Moneys are collected from recommended and fully vetted suppliers and funnelled back into our business. This keeps the trip cost low (for us and for you) and makes sure you only get the best experiences. If you’re unhappy with any places your leader recommends, or feel the quality of the trip is being compromised in any way, please let us know in your feedback. Optional tipping kitty for this trip: USD 21.50 per person (can be paid in VND).
What to take
MAIN LUGGAGE: What you need to bring will vary according to when you are travelling. Generally speaking, we recommend you pack as lightly as possible and make sure that you are able to carry and lift your own luggage, and walk with it for short distances including up and down stairs and in busy train stations. Our travellers usually find the smaller their luggage is, the more they enjoy the trip not having to worry about carrying heavy bags! Aim to keep your main luggage under 15kg. Small, wheeled suitcases that can also easily be picked up and carried are suitable, or if you prefer, a back pack is also a good option. Remember to bring suitable locks for your luggage. ESSENTIALS: - Day pack: for carrying essentials when exploring destinations. - Lightweight clothing: A mixture of covering lightweight clothing and some warm layers (depending on the season) are recommended. It is best to check the weather and seasonal information before travelling. For visits to religious sites you will also need to wear clothing that covers shoulders and pants/skirts that go past the knee. Laundry facilities may not be available in all destinations, so make sure you have a few cycles of clothes. - Wind and waterproof jacket - Comfortable shoes for walking and hiking: Closed-in shoes that are comfortable to walk for an entire day are recommended for city and countryside walks, and are required for cycling activities - Sandals/flip flops - Sun protection: hat, sunscreen, sunglasses - Toiletries RECOMMENDED: - Personal medical kit. A larger kit will be on hand with your leader, but we recommend you carry items such as mild pain killers, electrolytes and adhesive bandages. - Insect repellent - Water bottle: We recommend a 1.5litre capacity. While drinking tap water is not recommended in Vietnam, some hotels will have filtered drinking water available. The sale of bottled water contributes to an enormous environmental problem around the world. In addition to the water in bottles, the production of a 1 litre plastic bottle takes 2 litres of water and 200ml of oil. A large proportion end up in limited landfill or discarded in waterways and natural environments. - Camera with spare batteries/power bank: You will have access to power to recharge your electrical items most days, however these are a good backup. - Electrical adapter plug(s) - travel wipes - A good book, kindle, a journal and/or music player for longer journeys. OPTIONAL: - Torch/flashlight/headtorch - Small towel - Ear plugs & eye mask - A good book, a journal and music player for longer journeys. - Sleeping bag liner and pillowcase for overnight trains VALUABLES Please try to avoid bringing unnecessary valuables, and use your hotel safe if available. It’s a good idea to purchase a money belt or pouch that is easily hidden. It’s also recommended to bring a copy of all important documents e.g. air tickets, passport, vaccination certificate, etc. and keep the copies separate from the originals. While not valid, a photocopy makes it very much easier to obtain replacements if necessary.
This trip includes one or more sections in a private vehicle with a water dispenser. We encourage all our travellers to bring a refillable water bottle on your trip to help reduce the use of disposable plastic bottles.
Climate and seasonal
TET: Tet is Vietnam’s New Year festival which takes place in late January/early February based on the lunar calendar and is the most important celebration of the year. While this can be a fascinating time to be in Vietnam, you do need to be prepared for some businesses to be closed, tourist sites to be very busy and for transport to be full as many Vietnamese are travelling around the country. Although we do our best to run trips during Tet as per the scheduled itinerary, it is likely that there will be some changes to transport, accommodation or minor alternations to the itinerary. Due to the high demand on tickets at this time, flights and overnight trains may on occasion need to be replaced with day buses. We will aim to communicate any known changes prior to your departure. WET SEASON During the rainy months (approx. June to October), our mode of transport can be changed at short notice due to weather conditions. CLIMATE & CLOTHING: For the majority of the year, the temperature in Vietnam is normally warm and humid, particularly from Hoi An southward. North of here, it can be cool between late November and March. If travelling at this time it is advisable to bring some some warmer clothing.
A couple of rules
Illegal drugs will not be tolerated on our trips. Possessing or using drugs not only contravenes the laws of the land, but also puts the rest of the group at risk. Smoking marijuana and opium is a part of local culture in some parts of the world but is not acceptable for our travellers. Our philosophy of travel is one of respect towards everyone we encounter and in particular, the local people who make our destinations such special places. The exploitation of prostitutes is completely contrary to this philosophy. Our group leader or local representative has the right to expel any member of the group if drugs are found in their possession or if they use prostitutes. Everyone has the right to feel safe and secure on their trip. We don’t tolerate any form of sexual harassment, either between passengers or involving our leaders or local operators. Sexual relationships (consensual or otherwise) between a leader and a passenger are unacceptable. If you ever feel another person is behaving inappropriately please inform us immediately by contacting the emergency contact number detailed in these trip notes.
Pre-departure checklist
Before you travel please download our pre-departure checklist to make sure you are fully prepared for your trip. http://www.geckosadventures.com/pre-departure-checklist
Emergency contact
BOOKING ENQUIRIES / ISSUES For general enquiries or questions about your booking, please contact your agent or adventure specialist, or visit us at: http://www.geckosadventures.com/contact-us CRISES AND EMERGENCIES In the case of a genuine crisis or emergency please contact our local ground representative on the number below: ISSUES ON YOUR TRIP: While we always endeavor to provide you the best possible holiday experience, due to the nature of travel and the areas we visit sometimes things can and do go wrong. Should any issue occur while you are on your trip, it is imperative that you discuss this with your group leader/specialist guide or our local representative straight away so that they can do their best to rectify the problem. We recognise that there may be times when your group leader/local partner may not be able to resolve a situation to your satisfaction - if this is the case, please ask the leader/guide to speak to their direct manager. Geckos' Vietnam Office: +84 903 117 770
Responsible travel
Travelling responsibly is all about making good choices. It's about ensuring you have an incredible trip while also having a positive impact on the local environment, community and economy you're travelling in. How can you be a Responsible Traveller? See our tips below: - Choose to travel with a responsible travel company like us! We've already offset the main carbon emissions of your trip, so your footprint is already lighter. - Consider offsetting your flights when you book your trip/flights with us or your travel agent. - Bring a refillable water bottle and some water purification tablets (or a Steripen) to cut down on plastic bottle waste. - Be an animal-friendly traveller. Only go to venues that respect animals by allowing them to live normally in their natural environment. Steer clear of venues that use animals for entertainment or abnormal activities and/or keep animals in poor and unnatural conditions. - Eat at local restaurants, buy from regional artists and support social enterprises so you can contribute directly to locals and their economy. - Always be respectful of local customs and ask permission if you want to take a photo of someone. - Learn a few words of the local language and engage with the people around you. - Carry a cloth or re-usable bag so you can avoid plastic bags. - Give back by making a donation to a local project via The Intrepid Foundation. Share your thoughts with us by completing your feedback form after your trip. This helps us to continue to improve our commitment to responsible travel.
The Intrepid Foundation
The Intrepid Foundation is a not-for-profit foundation set up to enable our travellers to help make a difference by supporting local communities, projects and non-government organisations in the places we travel. The smallest contribution can make an enormous difference and all donations to The Intrepid Foundation are matched dollar for dollar (yes, we’ll double your donation!). We support a range of initiatives – from wildlife protection and environmental conservation to supporting vocational training for underprivileged individuals – all with the aim of helping to improve lives and empower communities across the world to make meaningful change. All administration costs are covered by us so you can be assured 100 per cent of your donation will reach your chosen project. To learn more about the projects we support, ask your trip leader for more information about projects in the region you are travelling in or visit www.theintrepidfoundation.org Organisations and projects currently supported by The Intrepid Foundation in Vietnam include: * The Blue Dragon Children's Foundation works in northern and central Vietnam with the most vulnerable children: street kids, children with disabilities, children from rural families living in extreme poverty, and victims of human trafficking and slavery. Their primary aim is to rescue kids from danger, reunite them with their families when they can, and provide all the services needed for recovery and growth. www.theintrepidfoundation.org/projects/blue-dragon-childrens-foundation/ * Children's Hope in Action (CHIA) provides vital health and disability programs and educational services to vulnerable families in Hoi An and surrounding rural areas. CHIA’s holistic Special Education program facilitates the social, physical and intellectual development of children who have motor disabilities and little, or no intellectual impairment. www.theintrepidfoundation.org/projects/childrens-hope-in-action/ * The KOTO Saigon Training Centre provides training in life skills and hospitality to former street children. Trainees at the Saigon centre will go on to work at KOTO's restaurant in the city (to open in 2011). Travellers may also visit the KOTO restaurant in Hanoi, which also provides training opportunities for disadvantaged youth and great food. www.theintrepidfoundation.org/projects/koto/ For more information, or to make a donation please visit: www.theintrepidfoundation.org/projects/?projectcountry=vietnam
Accommodation notes
DAY ROOMS & EARLY CHECK IN: Day rooms are provided for shared group use before the overnight train journey in Ho Chi Minh City on Day 3, after arriving Nha Trang on Day 4, and in Hanoi on Day 12. There is one room provided between up to 6 members of the group. Single supplements do not apply to day rooms. During your trip you may arrive at your destination before check in time, luggage storage will be available. Please ask your leader if you would like to request your own room for early check in for an additional cost, subject to availability.
Transport notes
OVERNIGHT SLEEPER TRAINS IN VIETNAM: Compartments will be 4 berth to 6 berth depending on seasonal variations and the group configuration. We aim to secure 4 berth compartments where possible. 6 berth compartments have bench seats that convert into sleeping bunks. A sheet, pillow and blanket are provided, although some travellers prefer to bring their own sleeping sheet. Passengers of different genders may be required to share a compartment and there will be occasions where you'll be sharing with local travellers or travellers who are not part of your group. On occasion the group may be split between several carriages, however your leader will coordinate and give further information on the trip.
Travel insurance
Travel insurance is compulsory for all our trips. We require that, at a minimum, you are covered for medical expenses including emergency repatriation. We strongly recommend that the policy also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage and personal effects. When travelling on a group trip, you won't be permitted to join the group until evidence of travel insurance and the insurance company's 24 hour emergency contact number has been seen by your leader. If you have credit card insurance your group leader will require details of the participating insurer/underwriter, the level of coverage, policy number and emergency contact number rather than the bank's name and credit card details. Please contact your bank for these details prior to arriving in-country. Please go to our website for links to various travel insurance providers.
Your fellow travellers
As you travel on a group trip you will be exposed to all the pleasures and maybe some of the frustrations of travelling in a group. Your fellow travellers will probably come from all corners of the world and likely a range of age groups too. We ask you to be understanding of the various needs and preferences of your group - patience with your fellow travellers is sometimes required for the benefit of everyone's travel experience. Remember too that you have responsibilities to the group. If you are requested to be at a place at a certain time, ensure that you don't keep the rest of the group waiting. Sharing a room can be a great way to get to know people quickly and make close friends. We have found time and time again that the very best trips we operate are those where the dynamics within the group work well - this takes just a little effort on your part. Due to privacy reasons we are unable to provide you with contact details and any personal information about your fellow travellers booked on your trip prior to departure.
Itinerary disclaimer
Occasionally our itineraries are updated during the year to incorporate improvements stemming from past travellers' comments and our own research. The information given in this itinerary may be slightly different to that in the brochure. It's very important that you print and review a final copy of your Essential Trip Information a couple of days prior to travel, in case there have been changes that affect your plans. If you have any queries, please contact your travel agent or our staff. We are here to help you! Please note that while we operate successful trips in this region throughout the year, some changes may occur in our itineraries due to inclement weather and common seasonal changes to timetables and transport routes. This can happen with little notice so please be prepared for modifications to the route. The order and timing of included activities in each location may also vary from time to time.
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