Essential Trip Information
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Essential Trip Information
Friends Travel Vietnam has been compiled all "Essential Information" with care and good faith for your travel package, trip, excursions or tour for an unforgettable holiday experience. They give an accurate illustration of the proposed arrangements for this holiday. Occasionally our itineraries are updated during the year to incorporate improvements stemming from past travellers' comments and our own research.
The information given in your digital itinerary you always receive from us may be slightly different on the day of your departure. It's very important that you print and review a final copy of your Itinerary & Trip Notes a couple of days prior to travel, in case there have been changes that affect your plans, we always handover by sending before your departure our latest updated of your itinerary. If you have any queries, please contact us directly we are here to help you!
While Friends Travel Vietnam operate successful different trips, excursions & tours in Vietnam this region throughout the year, some changes may occur in our itineraries. Circumstances beyond our control such as changes in local conditions, inclement weather to timetables and transport routes or other reasons could force us to make changes to this itinerary. Any costs shown might subject to change, though are an accurate reflection of costs at time of writing. 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.
OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES
A selection of optional activities that have been popular with past travellers are listed in the day-to-day itinerary or trip notes. This isn't an exhaustive list and should be used as a guide only for some of what might be available. Prices are approximate, are for entrance only, and don’t include transport to and from the sites or local guides unless indicated. All activities are subject to availability, and maybe on a join-in basis. It may not be possible to do all the activities listed in the time available at each destination, so some pre-planning for what you are most interested in is advised. When it's recommended that travellers pre-book these activities, look for a note in the Special Information section of the day-to-day itinerary. For most, they can either be organized independently on the day, contact our local destination specialist or let your leader know you are interested and they can assist.
Where activities are considered medium or high risk, we work with operators whose safety and credentials we have sighted and assessed. Although it is possible that you may find the same activity cheaper with another operator on the ground, we cannot vouch for the safety or quality of that operator. Medium and high-risk activities not listed above have not been assessed by us and as such our staff and leaders are unable to assist you with organising these activities. Activities that contravene our Responsible Travel policies are also not listed. Please remember that the decision to partake in any activity not listed is at your own discretion and risk.
Please also note that visa requirements are subject to change and are the responsibility of the traveller and not that of Friends Travel Vietnam.
Index Essential Trip Information
Important notes
FAMILY TRIPS: Please note that these trips are for adults and children travelling together and there must be at least one child under 18 with you.
AGE: Minimum age for children on this trip is 5 years old.
DISCOUNT: A discount of 10% applies on trip to children 17 years and under at time of travel.
SINGLE SUPPLEMENT: A single supplement is available for all of our trips as cruises, trains, hotels, homestays and private tours
PASSPORT DETAILS: Please provide your full name exactly as per passport at the time of booking (including any middle names listed on your passport), for internal flights and train tickets. Ticketing fees may apply for amendments to details of departure, and in some cases you will be required to cover the cost of issuing a new ticket if not shared the exact details as required.
ARRIVAL TRANSFER: A complimentary airport arrival transfer is included; valid if you are arriving on Day 1 or if you have booked pre-tour with accommodation through us. You must provide your flight details to your booking agent at least 14 days prior to travel.
Passport and visas
PASSPORT
You will need a valid passport to travel internationally. As a general rule, most countries require that your passport has a minimum of 6 months validity remaining. Your passport details are required to complete your booking. Please ensure the name on your passport matches the name on your booking and airline tickets exactly and contact us immediately if there are any errors. We recommend taking copies of the main passport pages and other important documents with you as well as leave copies at home with family or friends.
VISAS
Visas are the responsibility of the individual traveller. Entry requirements can change at any time. It is important that you check your government's foreign travel advisories along with the consular website of the country or countries you are travelling to for the most up to date information specific to your nationality and circumstances. Please be aware that not all visa information found online from other sources may be valid while COVID-19 restrictions are in place.
Please feel free to contact us for more information.
Visas can take several weeks to process, so make sure you research the requirements as soon as you have booked your trip to allow for obtaining any necessary documents as well as the application and processing time. Your booking consultant can advise on a visa processing service or you can apply yourself directly through a consulate.
Friends Travel Vietnam arrange tourist visa's for our travellers please see here for more information.
Medical and health information
GENERAL HEALTH
All travellers need to be in good physical health in order to participate fully on our trips, excursions or tours. When selecting your trip please make sure you have read through the itinerary carefully and assess your ability to manage and enjoy 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, we reserve the right to exclude them from all or part of a trip without refund.
You should consult your doctor for up-to-date medical travel information or for any necessary vaccinations before departure. We recommend that you carry a first aid kit as well as any personal medical requirements as they may not easily be obtained while travelling.
COVID-19
The safety and wellbeing of our travellers, leaders, crew, staff, and suppliers continues to remain our highest priority as we travel. You can read more about how we will keep you safe on our trips, including our
COVID-19 Health & Safety Guidelines here.
We will not require a negative COVID-19 test before joining a trip unless it is a requirement of entry for the country. If you are unwell prior to travelling, please stay at home and contact us to make alternative arrangements. At the group meeting, you will be asked to complete a self-screening health form and report any COVID-19 symptoms as well as any close contact with someone who has suspected or confirmed COVID-19. If you are displaying any symptoms or have any health concerns at this time, we will follow the advice of local health authorities to determine whether medical assistance, isolation or further action is required. We ask all travellers to continue to monitor their health throughout their travels and report any relevant symptoms to their tour leader.
MOSQUITO-BORNE ILLNESSES
Mosquito-borne diseases such as dengue fever and Japanese encephalitis are widespread in South East Asia. Malaria is also prevalent in some regions, particularly along the borders in mountainous regions. Take preventative measures such as wearing long clothing, using repellent and being indoors particularly around dusk and dawn. Seek medical advice prior to travel for medication or vaccination advice.
ZIKA VIRUS
There have been reports of transmission of the mosquito-borne Zika virus in this region 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, we recommend all women who are pregnant or trying to get pregnant to consult with their doctors before booking their trip.
Food and dietary requirements
While travelling with us you and your family will 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 and your family 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.
BREAKFASTS
At hotels you’ll often have a buffet with choices of Vietnamese and Western food. At homestays you will have more basic breakfasts of local foods, eggs, bread, jam, tea and coffee. Take away breakfasts for early starts may be very simple such as a piece of fruit and a bread roll.
DIETARY REQUIREMENTS & FOOD ALLERGIES
Check out with us first if we are able to cater your request as vegan, vegetarian, gluten & peanut free travellers,
check here for more information about food allergies
Accommodations
Family of two - All family groupings of two will be put into a twin room.
Family of three - Wherever possible we will put you in a triple room. Please be aware that in some places triple rooms are in short supply. This means that, in practice, a triple room will often simply be a twin room with a mattress on the floor or a further bed squashed in. Where it is impossible to provide a triple room, you will have to decide which of your party takes the single room.
Family of four or more - You will most likely stay in two twin rooms. If and wherever possible we will aim put you in a quadruple room. Whilst we will do our very best to ensure that families are roomed close together (in some cases, we can arrange adjoining rooms), we can’t guarantee this. Most family holidays occur during peak season and we sometimes have little to no control over where you will be put. You need to come prepared for this.
Accommodation is clean and simple. You'll mainly stay in small, locally-run, 2-3 star hotels and guesthouses, which reflect the character of the area, generally these will be a twin room with private facilities. Sometimes you'll stay in larger, more comfortable hotels or occasionally rustic accommodation with basic facilities. We use a variety of accommodation on most trips; chosen for their value for money, location and atmosphere. We also try and incorporate unique accommodation experiences.
Transport
Boat, Minibus, Overnight sleeper train, Plane, Private Bus, domestic flights:
Please provide your exact name (including middle name) as per passport 45 days prior to your trip's departure date for flight tickets to be issued. Internal flights will be on the following safety audited airlines: Jetstar Pacific, Vietjet, Bamboo Airlines or Vietnam Airlines.
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 an appropriate amount for things like optional meals, drinks, shopping, optional activities, and laundry. Make sure you have read the itinerary and inclusions thoroughly so you know what is included in the trip price and what you may need to pay for while travelling.
CONTINGENCY FUNDS
We try to plan for every eventuality, but there are still some things beyond our control. We reserve the right to change an itinerary after departure due to local circumstances or a Force Majeure Event. In such emergency circumstances, the additional cost of any necessary itinerary alterations will be covered by you. Please note we are not responsible for any incidental expenses that may be incurred as a result of the change of itineraries including but not limited to visas, vaccinations or non-refundable flights. Make sure you have access to an extra US$ 1.000 for emergencies (e.g. severe weather, natural disasters, civil unrest) or other events that result in unavoidable changes to the itinerary (e.g. transport strikes or cancellations, airport closures). Sometimes these things necessitate last-minute changes to enable our trips to continue to run, and as a result, there may be some extra costs involved. The recommended amount is listed in USD for the reliability of universal travellers, however, local currency may be needed once in the country to cover these costs.
VIETNAM
You can use your credit/debit card in ATMs, which are common throughout Vietnam. These machines dispense cash in VND (Vietnamese dong). Credit/debit cards aren’t not always accepted for small payments in Vietnam so please ensure you have VND cash to cover daily expenses. Clean banknotes in small denominations are most useful. There is no need to bring lots of cash with you unless you prefer not to use ATMs. You can obtain VND cash prior to arriving in Vietnam, through normal outlets such as banks and currency exchange offices.
TIPPING
Tipping can be an appropriate way to recognize great service when travelling. While it may not be customary in your home country, it is an entrenched feature of the tourism industry across many of our destinations and is greatly appreciated by the people who take care of you during your travels. It is always best very small clean denomination notes, beside or dirty and ripped notes, as this can be regarded as an insult rather than the goodwill gesture it is intended to be.
OPTIONAL TIPPING KITTY
On Day 1 of your trip, your tour leader , guide or local travel destination specialist may discuss with you the idea of operating a group tipping kitty, whereby everybody contributes an equal amount and your tour leader distributes tips for drivers, local guides, hotel staff and other services included on your trip. This excludes restaurant tips for meals not included in your itinerary. The leader will keep a running record of all monies spent which can be checked at any time, and any funds remaining at the end of the tour will be returned to group members. We have found that this is easiest way to avoid the hassles of needing small change and knowing when and what is an appropriate amount to tip. Participation in this kitty is at your own discretion, and you are welcome to manage your own tipping separately if you prefer. Please note the tipping kitty excludes tips for your tour leader.
YOUR TOUR LEADER
You may also consider tipping your leader for outstanding service throughout your trip. The amount is entirely a personal preference; however as a guideline US$3-6 per person (in a currency relevant for your destination), 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 and involvement of your leader on your trip.
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, we’ve tried to legitimize the practice with a centralized fund. Moneys are collected from recommended and fully vetted suppliers and funneled 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.
Packing
What you need to bring will vary according to the trip style you have chosen, the countries you are visiting and 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 or up or down a flight of stairs. 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 between 15-20kg.
Many travellers carry their luggage in a backpack, although an overnight bag with a shoulder strap would suffice if you travel lightly. Smaller suitcases or backpacks with wheels are convenient although we recommend your bag has carry straps or handles.
If you are taking overnight trains, or primarily using public transport then the smaller your luggage the easier it will be to store under or above bunks. A lockable bag or small padlock will be useful especially when travelling on public transportation as well. You'll also need a day pack/bag to carry water, camera, and jacket etc. when you’re exploring during the day.
Below we have listed the essentials for this trip:
Water bottle
Consider bringing your own water bottle to refill along the way. We recommend at least a 1.5liter capacity. 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 liter plastic bottle takes 2 liters of water and 200ml of oil. A large proportion end up in limited landfill or discarded in waterways and natural environments.
Climate and seasonal information
WET SEASON:
During the rainy months (approx. June to October), our mode of transport can be changed at short notice due to weather conditions.
TET Holiday
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 packed 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 order of destinations visited. 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.
Read more "Vietnam Holiday Days"
Group Leader
All Friends Travel Vietnam group trips are accompanied by one of our group leaders. The aim of the group leader is to assist your family take the hassle out of your travels and to help you have the best trip possible. Your leader will provide information on the places you are travelling through, offer suggestions for fun things to do and see- for both kids and parents, recommend great local eating venues that will even get the kids trying new things, 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 Vietnam on the trip, including historical, cultural, religious and social aspects.
Our leaders are not babysitters on this trip - we leave that to you (the experts), but they will make sure that group members of all ages are able to explore their destination safely and with as much fun as possible. Our group leaders are not responsible for looking after children at any time and children must be accompanied by a parent or guardian at all times throughout this itinerary.
Safety
Most national governments provide regularly updated foreign travel advice for Vietnam on safety issues involved with travel. We recommend that you check your government's advice for their latest travel information before departure and ensure that your travel insurance covers you for all destinations and activities on your trip. Please refer to our website's safety page for links to major travel advisories and updates on safety issues affecting our trips here: Vietnam Travel Alerts
We strongly recommend the use of a neck wallet or money belt while travelling, for the safe-keeping of your passport, flight tickets, cash and other valuable items. Leave your jewellery at home - you won't need it while travelling. Many of our hotels have safety deposit boxes, which is the most secure way of storing your valuables. A lock is recommended for securing your luggage.
Our guide or your leader will accompany you on all included activities, however, during your trip you'll have some free time to pursue your own interests or relax and take it easy. While your 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 Intrepid itinerary, and Intrepid 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 Leader has the authority to amend or cancel any part of the trip itinerary if it's deemed necessary due to safety concerns.
Friends Travel Vietnam operational safety policies can be viewed on below our website. We recommend that you take a moment to read through this information before travelling, and would appreciate any feedback on how safety is being managed on our trips.
Friends Travel Vietnam core business of operating adventurous trips around Vietnam carries with it inherent risks for both its group leaders, guides and travellers.
Some reasons for these risks are:
- Laxity of laws and regulations in Vietnam governing transport, accommodation and infrastructure.
- Industry in general, when compared to what we would accept back home.
- The potentially volatile political environment in Vietnam which we operate.
- The nature of the itineraries that we run, which are adventurous in nature and often travel to remote locations.
With these factors in mind, Friends Travel Vietnam has a responsibility to ensure that all reasonable precautions are taken to provide trips that are safe.
The aim of this page is to give our travellers an insight into the safety standards that we endeavor to achieve when on an Intrepid trip. Please contact us if you have any comments about this policy or the application of it in the field.
No set of guidelines can anticipate all possible conditions that may arise.
We ask our staff and travellers to put sound judgement ahead of hard and fast rules and to judge each situation as it arises. Our staff are employed because they demonstrate sound operational judgement, and this extends to the application of safe travel practices.
1. Transport
Friends Travel Vietnam does not permit riding on the roof of any form of transport that we use, such as trains, boats or buses. We accept that seat belts are not readily available on all of the transport we take, on either charter or public vehicles. Where available, we expect our travellers to use them.
Licensed motorbike taxis (riding as a passenger with a licensed local driver) may be an available form of optional transport in some regions. Group members should consider the risk of such a means of transport and check the terms of their travel insurance before taking a motorbike taxi, as many will exclude motorbike injuries unless they are licensed riders.
1.1 Buses
Public buses are a common method of transport on Friends Travel Vietnam trips, and on occasion local buses can be very crowded, with people standing in the aisles. On rare occasions, Friends Travel Vietnam travellers may not have access to a seat and will need to stand, but this period should not be excessive and other transport arrangements will be made if there simply is no room on the bus. We rely on public transport providers to maintain the vehicles we use in a roadworthy condition, but we do not perform independent tests on public vehicles. If, in the group leaders opinion, the vehicle is unsafe then alternative transport arrangements will be made. Travelling on a local bus in Vietnam can be a different experience to your home country. If your leader believes a bus driver is driving dangerously, they will ask the driver to slow down and, if required, arrange for the group to get off the bus at the next opportunity. An alternative means of transport will then be arranged. Privately chartered bus operators/drivers are required to comply with local license and vehicle servicing standards.
1.2 Boats and ferries
We endeavor to provide, or ensure availability of, lifejackets for all boat and ferry journeys included on our itineraries. We rely on the boat operators to judge local conditions and determine whether the conditions are safe for travel. You may encounter public ferries that are crowded, and where the leader deems any risk unacceptable, they may arrange alternative transport. On smaller craft, where the risk of capsize is higher, you may be asked to wear lifejackets rather than just having them available to put on.
1.3 Bicycles
In Vietnam bicycle helmets are not a legal requirement. However, where local regulations mandate that all cyclists must wear a helmet (regardless of the duration or type of the cycling activity), the provision of helmets will be facilitated or, alternatively, you may be advised to bring your own. Where off-road cycling is the predominant activity of the trip, regardless of local legal requirements, we will provide helmets. Or in regions where helmets are not able to be confidently provided, you will be advised to bring your own and you will be requested to wear them at all times while cycling. Our staff will always wear a helmet while riding a bicycle.
2. Accommodation
Accommodation Safety Standards are regularly checked and monitored by our local operators and suppliers in line with local authority standards. Government regulations on safety standards in the hotels and guesthouses we use in many regions in Vietnam are less stringent than those that our travellers may be used to in their home countries.
However, we do endeavor to select accommodation that in the case of ‘closed’ hotels (with corridors, multi-stories etc.), they do have a second exit point in case of fire in the main exit. Please be aware that not all hotels we currently stay in comply with this standard, as homestay for example.
Depends on your booked itinerary you may be staying in simple accommodation such as a homestay or a hill tribe hut that is built on an elevated platform. Such accommodation is an Friends Travel Vietnam highlight experience, and naturally subject to a different safety environment. Your leader will outline any potential safety concerns for you to be aware of, but if such experiences concern you, please take this into consideration when choosing your trip and style of product.
3. Activities
We ask that you inform your booking agent or our travel destination specialist of any pre-existing physical and mental health conditions before travelling. If your leader is of the opinion that a group member is not able-bodied for an activity on the trip, he/she has the discretion and authority to refuse that person from participating in the activity - for the safety of themselves, the rest of the group and the leader. Prior to an activity commencing, our staff will conduct a short safety briefing.
3.1 Trekking
Many of our trips include a trekking component, whether it is overnight or a strenuous 10-day walk. Trekking is a highlight of such trips, but naturally you will be in remote areas so it is important that you have carefully considered your capability to join such a trip before booking. All travellers should have the correct footwear and equipment for the trek. When walking, the group must always stay between the designated scout and sweep. The scout and sweep will either be two guides, a guide and a leader, or a guide and a passenger. Group members should leave their packs on the trail if going into the bushes for a toilet stop so they are not unknowingly passed by the sweep. The group can walk in pairs or small groups, but should meet up together in its entirety a minimum of every couple of hours to ensure that all members are accounted for. The group should meet up at all major trail intersections to make sure everyone takes the correct fork. Travellers can walk at their own pace in between group meets. If local conditions such as weather or landslides etc. become an issue, your leader will seek the opinion of our local guides on the safety of the conditions and risks involved in continuing. The ultimate decision on whether to continue rests with the group leader. Our guides and leaders are trained in terrain climbing and are authorized to make decisions in the welfare of our travellers.
3.2 Flat water canoeing/kayaking
When canoeing or kayaking is part of a scheduled itinerary, the group will be given basic instruction as to paddling techniques and what to do in the case of a capsize by the local guides operating the trip. Lifejackets must be worn by all group members and leaders when doing organized canoeing, kayaking or rafting as part of the group. Helmets are not essential for flat-water paddling. Group members should wear trainers or sandals to protect their feet from rocks, but not to interfere with their ability to swim. Group members should not go canoeing or rafting if they cannot swim confidently when in water above head height. A scout and sweep system will be used when doing flat-water kayaking or rafting. The group should not separate more than 200 meters; the lead paddlers should raft up and wait for the tailenders on a regular basis.
3.3 Animals
Friends Travel Vietnam doesn't have any animal riding on our itineraries, as we are strongly against this kind of tourism.
3.4 Snorkelling
For any included snorkelling activity, your leader will brief you on safety procedures prior to departure. Travellers should, however, carefully consider their experience and capability in snorkelling and swimming before joining such an activity, and only follow the instructions of the safety brief.
4. First aid kits
Each leader is First Aid trained and qualified and has a medical kit which they will carry with them throughout the trip. This medical kit contains basic first aid supplies. Our Leaders will apply first aid where appropriate until medical assistance can be provided. Personal medication should always be carried by the passenger if required and disclosed to the leader in the event of an emergency.
Our friendly Customer Service team are always happy to answer any questions you have about safety on trips or travelling with us in general. You can contact us online or over the phone.
WATER SAFETY:
Take care when taking part in any activities in the ocean, river or open water where waves and currents can be unpredictable. It is expected that anyone taking part in water activities are able to swim and have experience in open water. All swimmers should seek local advice before entering the water.
TRAFFIC AND DRIVING ON THE OTHER SIDE OF THE ROAD
Depending on where you come from please note that drivers in Vietnam of may drive on the road from what you are used to. Look both ways before crossing any road and walk slowly. Traffic can be a little more chaotic than you might be used to at home. Be aware!
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 or on the floor and wearing a money belt will reduce any chance that your valuables should go missing.
A couple of rules
Everyone has the right to feel safe when they travel. We don’t tolerate any form of violence (verbal or physical) or sexual harassment, either between customers or involving our leaders, partners or local people. Sexual relationships between a tour leader and a customer are strictly forbidden.
Use or possession of illegal drugs will not be tolerated on our trips. If you choose to consume alcohol while travelling, we encourage responsible drinking and expect that you’ll abide by the local laws regarding alcohol consumption.
The sex tourism industry is known to exploit vulnerable people and have negative consequences on communities, including undermining the development of sustainable tourism. For this reason, patronizing sex workers will not be tolerated on our trips.
By travelling with us you are agreeing to adhere to these rules. You must at all times comply with the laws, customs, foreign exchange and drug regulations of Vietnam, and you also agree to travel in accordance with our Responsible Travel Guidelines.
The decision of the group leader is final on all matters likely to affect the safety or well-being of any traveller or staff member participating in the trip. If you fail to comply with a decision made by a group leader, or interfere with the well-being or mobility of the group, the group leader may direct you to leave the trip immediately, with no right of refund. We may also elect not to carry you on any future trips booked.
If you feel that someone is behaving inappropriately while travelling with us, please inform your tour leader or local guide immediately. Alternatively, contact us on the emergency contact number detailed in the Problems and Emergency Contact section of this Essential Trip Information.
For additional Conditions of Carriage regarding COVID-19, see here:
Conditions of carriage
If you're travelling with us during COVID-19, there are a few additional safety precautions that you’ll need to agree to. On Day 1 of your trip at the Welcome Meeting, all travellers will be required to fill out a health questionnaire asking you to disclose whether you’ve been diagnosed with, had symptoms of, or knowingly been in close contact of anyone with COVID-19 within the past 14 days. We also recommend all travellers check the government foreign travel advice of both your home country and Vietnam you are travelling to, to ensure you have the most up-to-date information about entry requirements and any potential quarantine periods.
Travelling or joining on a group trip
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. 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.
SOLO TRAVELLERS
This is the beauty of our style of travel: many of our travellers join because they are travelling solo and want to meet and share experiences with like-minded people. As a solo traveller, you will be paired up with another traveller of the same gender as per your passport information. Please note that this only applies to accommodation during the tour. Pre-trip and post-trip accommodation booked through us will on a single room basis. If you’re not comfortable sharing a room with someone of the same gender, you also have the choice to pay for a single supplement (available on the majority of our trips). If you don’t identify with the gender assigned on your passport, please let us know at time of booking and we’ll arrange the rooming configuration accordingly. Some of our itineraries have accommodation booked on an open gender, multi-share basis and where applicable this will be specified in your personal itinerary details
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is compulsory on all our trips for those travelling internationally. We require that at a minimum you are covered for medical expenses including emergency repatriation. If you are travelling within your home country or region please confirm before travel that you are entitled to access the public medical system easily should an accident occur. We strongly recommend all travellers have a policy that also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage or personal effects.
Travellers who reside within the European Union or Switzerland receive basic international health insurance, so travel insurance is not mandatory under European Union Law. However, as this does not cover situations such as emergency rescues, private health care, or repatriation to their home country, comprehensive travel insurance is strongly recommended.
Responsible Travel
Our Responsible Travel Policy outlines our commitment to preserving the environment, supporting local communities, protecting the vulnerable, and giving back to the places we travel. All our trip leaders, suppliers, and staff are trained on these principles and are core to us delivering sustainable, experience-rich travel.
Explore here the different parts of our Responsible Travel Policy
When packing be aware that dress standards are conservative and you should dress accordingly. To respect the local culture and for your own comfort, we strongly recommend modest clothing. As a guideline, shoulders and knees at the minimum (and everything in between including midriff and cleavage) should be covered at all times. Wearing shorts and singlet tops is not appropriate and may well restrict your entry into sites of a religious nature, family homes, and will limit your local interaction opportunities in general. Loose, lightweight, long clothing is both respectful and cool in the predominantly warm climate as Vietnam in general.
Coronavirus customer information hub
Get all the latest travel advice for Vietnam & updates regarding the impact of COVID-19 Pandemic on travel plans, trip cancellations, booking with confidence and safety in the field.
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