16 Day Highlights Of Laos, Vietnam & Cambodia Premium Small Group Tour

• Small group tour, up to 20 guests only
• 14 nights in 4-star accommodation
• 1 night on board a premium Halong Bay cruise
• Breakfast daily, 4 lunches & 4 dinners
• All internal flights
• Fully escorted by professional English-speaking tour guides 
• Comfortable, dedicated transportation throughout
• In-depth sightseeing and entrance fees as per the itinerary

• Luang Prabang - Pak Ou Cave Boat Cruise
• Luang Prabang - Wat Xieong Thong Temple
• Luang Prabang - Phu Si Hill
• Luang Prabang - Kuang Si Falls
• Luang Prabang - Hmong Village
• Vientiane - Wat Si Saket
• Vientiane - Pha That Luang
• Hanoi - Temple of Literature
• Hanoi - Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum Complex (from outside)
• Hanoi - Hanoi Old Quarter
• Halong Bay - Halong Bay Cruise
• Halong Bay - Sung Sot Cave
• Hoi An - Old Quarter Walking Tour
• Ho Chi Minh City - Dong Khoi Street
• Ho Chi Minh City - War Remnants Museum
• Ho Chi Minh City - Cu Chi Tunnels
• Siem Reap - Angkor Wat
• Tonle Sap Lake - Kampong Phluk Floating Village

Inspiring Sights

To enhance your journey, we're offering guests a bonus sightseeing experience. Choose 1 of 3 options (options listed under 'Optional Tours').

1. Hanoi, Water Puppet show
2. Hoi An, Memoirs show
3. Ho Chi Minh City, Mekong Delta tour

Optional tours
To enhance your journey, we are offering guests a choice of the following optional activities (prices are per person):

• Ho Chi Minh Water Puppet, 06:30PM show (Day 10) - $62 per person
• Hoi An Memoirs Show, 7:30pm show (Day 8) - $68 per person
• Ho Chi Minh City - Mekong Delta (Day 12) - $111 per person

Optional tours can be selected once you have finalised your tour purchase and paid your deposit. When completing your Passenger Booking Form, you will be asked if you would like to add Optional Tours, where any applicable cost will be added to your final balance. If you choose not to select them at this time, you can choose to add them later by logging in to your Account online.

Please note that you must select your Optional Tours no later than 70 days before departure, after which you will be required to purchase them on tour. Please keep in mind that anything purchased on-tour is subject to availability and prices may vary as you will be paying in local currency. We appreciate your understanding.

Please note: All add-ons, including upgrades, pre/post accommodation, and optional tours, are subject to availability until confirmed by our operators. We recommend waiting for final confirmation of all itinerary components before making irreversible bookings like flights.

Pre/post accommodation 
You can enhance your holiday by arriving or departing before or after the tour. On this tour you can choose from the following options:

Pre Tour Accommodation

• $121.00 per room, per night for double and twin share
• $121.00 per room, per night for solo travellers

Post Tour Accommodation

• $101.00 per room, per night for double and twin share
• $101.00 per room, per night for solo travellers

Please select the number of extra nights required in the 'Additional Nights Accommodation' field when making your purchase. The additional cost for these arrangements will be added to your final payment invoice and are subject to availability.

Upgrades 
Not available  

Airport Transfers 
Some of our packages will include airport transfers in either one or both directions when arriving or departing from your destination. To know if transfers are included please view the ‘inclusions’ section of your selected package. If airport transfers are stated, transfers will be included as advised.

If transfers are not included, we also offer the option to book your airport transfers using our online portal. Access to this portal is available through your Traveller Hub once your booking is confirmed. Transfers are readily available and do not need to be booked until your final hotel list has been confirmed. Once you have made a transfer booking, please refer to your confirmation email for all transfer details including a local contact number for the transfer company.

If you book pre and/or post-tour accommodation on your arrangement, and the tour includes transfers, note that these will be forfeited. The transfers are only provided in line with the tour dates and pre and/or post-tour accommodation purchased through Inspiring Vacations when available.

Bedding Configuration
Bedding configurations (double or twin) are requests only. All efforts will be made to meet your preferences, but we can not guarantee your request will be available at all properties.

1 - Single Supplement
By paying an additional $1,495.00 per person, in addition to the twin-share price, you guarantee the privacy of your room throughout the entire tour.

Please note when choosing Single Supplement for this tour, your room will generally consist of a double or semi-double bed. Occasionally there may be a hotel that will provide a single bedded room for single travellers. 

2- Shared Room with a known friend
If travelling together with a friend, you can opt to share your room with him/her and avoid paying a single supplement. 

You and your friend can create a unique booking each. Creating a unique booking, gives each of you the flexibility of making different travel arrangements (such as adding extra accommodation, flights, etc), making separate payments and having individual access to our Traveller Hub

During the purchase path, you will need to provide your friend’s booking ID (if known) or at a minimum, your friend’s full name.

3- Shared Room with a fellow traveller
In this tour you can opt to share a room with a fellow traveller of the same gender – as specified in your passport - and avoid paying a single supplement.

If you believe you may prevent your travelling companion from enjoying a peaceful night’s rest, please refrain from selecting this option.

You will meet your rooming companion at the beginning of your tour. 

Should you wish to change from a shared room to a solo room, this would be at the cost of the traveller who has requested to change the room type. Changes to room configuration during the trip must be organised by travellers directly with the hotel, subject to availability and additional charges.

This option is not available on additional accommodation booked before or after

Triple Share
Not available

Starting Point

Your starting hotel may differ from the original itinerary.  Please refer to your final documentation which will be provided approximately 14-30 days before departure for your confirmed hotel list. If you are needing to book pre-tour accommodation independently, we suggest you do this only once you have received your final hotel list for your tour. If you would like to book something sooner, we recommend that you book using a flexible rate that can be cancelled through your chosen third-party provider without penalty. 

Travellers will arrive at various times throughout the day depending on flights booked. If arriving before standard check-in time, which is generally 3pm, you are welcome to leave your luggage at hotel reception and explore your surroundings until check-in becomes available as there are no scheduled activities on day 1 of the itinerary.  The hotel may grant early check-in, however this is strictly subject to availability and at the hotel’s discretion. 

Note: if you need to apply for a tourist visa before departure, we recommend using the details of the suggested hotel on the tour itinerary if you wish to fulfil this before the release of your final tour documentation. Please refer to our visa section for more information on whether or not a visa is required for your destination. 

Arrival Details

Airport transfers are not included as part of your package. However, we trust that your journey from the airport to the hotel will be comfortable and hassle-free.

As an added service, we do offer airport transfers at an additional cost which can be booked via your Traveller Hub.  We recommend you wait until you receive your final documentation to book transfers as your start and end hotels will only be confirmed at this point. Please note that if you are choosing to book an independent airport transfer service, your Inspiring Vacations Tour Leader cannot be held responsible for any unforeseen circumstances that may arise, nor can they resolve any concerns that you may have with your transfer service.

Welcome Meeting Instructions

At 06:00pm your Tour Guide will conduct a Welcome Meeting at the hotel lobby where you will meet the rest of your fellow travellers.

In Case of Emergency

Although we strive to deliver exceptional holiday experiences, unforeseen circumstances can occasionally arise during travel. If any issues arise during your trip, it's essential to promptly communicate them to your tour leader or local representative. This ensures they can take immediate action to address the problem and mitigate any negative impact on the remainder of your journey.

We understand that there may be instances where your tour leader or local representative is unable to resolve a situation to your satisfaction. In such cases, we encourage you to request that the tour leader or local representative escalate the matter to their direct manager for further assistance.

You also have the option to share details in your online feedback after the tour. However, please keep in mind that it's challenging for us to offer practical assistance once the trip is completed. Therefore, notifying us while still travelling allows us the chance to address the issue in real time and provide a timely resolution.

For general contact details please use the following page: 

https://www.inspiringvacations.com/au/contact-us

When your final tour documentation is released, this will include an emergency contact for our local travel partner while you are on tour. If this is not included in your documentation, you will receive this on arrival during your welcome meeting. 

Finishing Point 

Your finishing hotel may differ from the original itinerary. Please refer to your final documentation which will be provided approximately 14-30 days before departure for your confirmed hotel list. If you need to book additional post-tour accommodation, please do so once you have the final hotel list. We recommend booking a flexible rate that can be changed or cancelled without penalty should there be any unforeseen changes to your booking. 

Travellers will depart at various times throughout the day depending on flights booked. Check-out time is generally from 10am-12pm. You are welcome to leave your luggage at the hotel reception and spend your final moments of free time exploring the area or please speak with hotel staff if you would like to extend your check-out time. This service is subject to availability and will likely come at an additional cost payable directly. 

Departure Details 

There are no activities on the final day of your trip, and you can check out of the hotel at your own convenience. Airport transfers are not included as part of your package. However, we trust that your journey from the hotel to the airport will be comfortable and hassle-free.

As an added service, we do offer airport transfers at an additional cost which can be booked via your Traveller Hub.  We recommend you wait until you receive your final documentation to book transfers as your start and end hotels will only be confirmed at this point. Please note that if you are choosing to book an independent airport transfer service, your Tour Leader cannot be held responsible for any unforeseen circumstances that may arise, nor can they resolve any concerns that you may have with your transfer service.

Trip Suitability

• Discovering the different areas of Laos, Vietnam & Cambodia requires multiple flights. Though some flights may involve early departures and potential delays or schedule changes, we have meticulously crafted this itinerary to ensure you experience the very best of what the region has to offer. When there are multiple flight options a day, we often choose the earlier option to ensure that if there are any cancellations or schedule changes then we can still get to our destination in time.

• South East Asia can  experience high temperatures and humidity, along with occasional intense, short bursts of heavy rain. When planning your trip, remember to pack appropriate clothing and stay hydrated to cope with the climate variations.

• During this trip we will have a different Dedicated Tour Guide across each country. This is to ensure we have a local expert in each location, and also due to guide licence requirements in certain destinations. Each Dedicated Tour Guide will communicate with each other and the group so there will be a seamless transition.

Visas & Entry Requirements

Many countries require a visa and obtaining the correct visa for your trip and any countries you may transit through is your responsibility. We recommend you check your visa requirements as soon as you have booked your trip. This will ensure you have time to prepare your documents and for your visa application to be processed. You can check the visa entry requirements for your nationality via our page here: 

https://inspiringvacations-8357211.hs-sites.com/visa-information 

You’ll need a valid passport to travel internationally and most countries require your passport to have a minimum of 6 months validity, so remember to check the expiry date.

We need your passport information to get everything ready for your trip so the information on your booking must match your passport exactly. Please take care to provide the correct details. We recommend carrying a copy of the photo page of your passport while travelling and leaving a copy at home with family or friends.

Pace

This trip category is 3 out of 5

This trip offers a good mix of planned activities and free time. Expect moderate daily walking tours, so pack comfortable shoes.

As a general requirement across all of our trips, you may be required to walk up and down stairs, get on and off transportation, handle your own luggage, and participate in all scheduled sightseeing that may be conducted on uneven ground and terrain. Any physical ailments you may have must be disclosed at the time of booking to determine your suitability and where required, supporting documentation may be requested to ensure that we are comfortable that you will enjoy your trip.

Group Size 

Minimum: 4, Maximum: 20

Escorted Style 

A section of this trip runs as a group tour, where you will be escorted by an Dedicated Tour Guide. On other sections, a local representative will meet and greet you, coordinate your activities in town and be reachable to assist you as needed.

Tour Type 

Our expertly crafted Small Group Tours take you to iconic landmarks and hidden treasures, ensuring a rich blend of must-see sights. Unwind in premium accommodations after each day filled with sightseeing alongside your dedicated tour leader, leaving you free to explore at your own pace during designated free time. Benefit from smaller group sizes, creating a truly unforgettable travel experience.

Exclusions

• International Airfares

• Airport Transfers

• Visas

• Tipping

• Travel Insurance (compulsory)

• Optional activities

• Personal expenses

• Anything not mentioned in the itinerary

Getting Around

While touring Laos, Vietnam & Cambodia, you will be travelling by private coaches, planes, and boats. For longer coach journeys, there will be comfort stops along the way where you can freshen up, stretch your legs, use the bathroom and often, purchase refreshments. Generally, lunch stops will be taken at rest stops as they can easily accommodate our large groups.

For certain flights, you may travel unaccompanied, but our Dedicated Tour Guides will assist you at both departure and arrival points to ensure a smooth experience.

Hotel Ratings

To give you the most accurate picture possible, we don't just rely on a single source for hotel ratings. We go beyond by researching various trusted travel websites like Tripadvisor and Booking.com. This allows us to analyse a wider range of genuine customer reviews and experiences, giving you a well-rounded understanding of the hotel's typical star rating.

This means you can book with confidence, knowing the hotel has a strong track record of satisfied guests.

Accommodation Details

This tour features a curated selection of 4-star hotels and resorts throughout Laos, Vietnam, and Cambodia, and an overnight boat in Halong Bay. Each accommodation has been carefully chosen based on a stringent set of criteria, ensuring the high standards of comfort and convenience. Accommodation in Vietnam and Southeast Asia can differ from what you might be used to at home, but rest assured, we carefully select options to ensure your stay is both comfortable and enjoyable.

Packing Essentials

What you need to pack for your tour will vary according to the trip style you have chosen, the countries you are visiting and when you are travelling. We recommend you pack as lightly as possible, ensuring that you can carry and lift your luggage, and walk with it for short distances or up or down a flight of stairs. Help will be on hand in most locations, but there may be times you need to handle your luggage, for example in airports and train stations.

A lockable suitcase with wheels is ideal for this trip. It is recommended that you keep your main luggage weight around 15kg and no more than 20kg. A small or medium-sized backpack (45-50 litres) is another good option. You'll also need a day pack/bag to carry water, a camera, a jacket, and your essentials while touring during the day.

Climate 

In Laos, particularly in the Luang Prabang region, the climate is tropical with distinct wet and dry seasons. The dry season runs from November to April, characterised by warm temperatures and little rainfall, making it ideal for exploring temples and outdoor activities. The wet season, from May to October, brings higher humidity and frequent rain showers, but also lush green landscapes and vibrant festivals.

Vietnam's climate is diverse, varying significantly from north to south. The country experiences a tropical monsoon climate, resulting in distinct wet and dry seasons.

In the north, including Hanoi and Ninh Binh, winters (November to April) can be cool and dry, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F). Summers (May to October) are hot, humid, and rainy, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C (86°F) and frequent heavy showers.

Central Vietnam, including cities like Hue and Hoi An, has a hot and dry season from January to August, with temperatures between 25°C to 35°C (77°F to 95°F). The rainy season from September to December can bring typhoons and heavy rainfall.

In the south, encompassing Ho Chi Minh City, Nha Trang and the Mekong Delta, the climate is consistently warm year-round. The dry season runs from November to April, with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 35°C (77°F to 95°F). The wet season from May to October features high humidity and heavy afternoon rains.

Cambodia has a tropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. The dry season runs from November to April, offering sunny days and less humidity, ideal for exploring temples like Angkor Wat. The wet season from May to October brings heavy rainfall, refreshing green landscapes, and occasional afternoon showers.

Regardless of the region, travellers should pack lightweight, breathable clothing for the heat, a waterproof jacket for sudden downpours, and stay hydrated to cope with the tropical conditions. Understanding this varied climate will help ensure a comfortable and enjoyable travel experience.

Currency and ATMs

In Laos, the official currency is the Lao Kip (LAK), but Thai Baht and US Dollars are widely accepted in tourist areas. ATMs are available in major cities and towns, dispensing Lao Kip; however, it's advisable to carry sufficient cash when traveling to more remote areas where ATM availability may be limited.

In Vietnam, the official currency is the Vietnamese Dong (VND).  The currency of Cambodia is the Cambodian Riel (KHR). However, the US Dollar (USD) is also widely accepted and used alongside the Riel for larger transactions and in tourist areas.

While ATMs are widely available in cities and tourist areas, carrying cash is essential, especially in rural regions where card payments are often not accepted. International credit and debit cards can be used at most ATMs, but be mindful of transaction fees and withdrawal limits. It's best to exchange larger bills at banks or official exchange bureaus for better rates. Ensure your notes are in good condition, as damaged or torn bills may be refused. Always notify your bank of your travel plans to avoid issues with card usage.

Food and Allergies

Laotian cuisine offers a delicious blend of flavours influenced by its neighbouring countries, Thailand and Vietnam. Expect dishes featuring fresh herbs, sticky rice, and spicy elements like chilli peppers. Don't miss out on specialties such as larb (minced meat salad), sticky rice served in bamboo tubes, and refreshing papaya salad.

Vietnamese cuisine is renowned for its vibrant flavours and fresh ingredients. Popular dishes include pho (noodle soup), banh mi (baguette sandwich), and goi cuon (spring rolls). The cuisine often features rice, noodles, fresh herbs, seafood, pork, and a variety of vegetables. Street food is a highlight, offering an authentic and affordable culinary experience.

Cambodian cuisine offers a rich variety of flavours with staples like rice, fish, and aromatic herbs. Don't miss favourites such as fish amok (curried fish steamed in banana leaves) and beef lok lak (stir-fried beef with a tangy sauce).

Always ask about ingredients and preparation methods, as cross-contamination can occur. Opt for freshly cooked dishes and avoid sauces or condiments that may contain hidden allergens. 

For travellers with food allergies, it's crucial to exercise caution. Common allergens such as peanuts, shellfish, soy, and gluten are frequently used in Vietnamese cooking. 

While travelling with Inspiring Vacations you'll enjoy iconic sightseeing, as well as experience the vast array of culinary offerings in Vietnam. While many meals will be eaten together with your group, not all meals are included in your tour which gives you maximum flexibility in deciding where, what and with whom to eat. If you have dietary requirements and/or food allergies, please let our Customer Support Team know before departure. Your Inspiring Vacations Tour Guide or Local Guide will also be able to give suggestions on which restaurants to try during your trip. For those with a particular food allergy, your Inspiring Vacations Tour Guide will endeavour to advise the main ingredients in the dishes consumed. It is, however, still your responsibility to ensure that you do not ingest any problematic ingredients.

Local Customs

When travelling in Laos, Vietnam & Cambodia, it's important to respect local customs. Always remove your shoes before entering someone's home. Dress modestly, especially when visiting temples or religious sites. Show respect by addressing elders and avoiding public displays of affection. A slight bow or nod is a customary greeting. Being aware of these customs will help you show respect and connect more deeply with these cultures.

Dress Code

In Laos, Vietnam & Cambodia, dress modestly to show respect for local culture. Lightweight, breathable clothing is ideal for the hot, humid climate. When visiting temples or religious sites, cover your shoulders and knees. In cities, casual attire like shorts and t-shirts are acceptable, but avoid overly revealing outfits. For rural areas, dressing conservatively is appreciated. Proper attire helps you blend in and show respect for local customs.

Responsible Dining

Avoid consuming endangered species or items harvested unsustainably. Be respectful of local customs and food practices, and always tip fairly to support local workers. Responsible dining helps protect the environment and promotes the well-being of local communities.

Tipping Your Leader, Local Guide or Driver

A friendly reminder that tipping is not included in your package. Tipping is not compulsory on your trip, but they can make a big difference to locals employed in the tourism industry. If you feel that staff have done an impeccable job, you can choose to give a gratuity, but this is entirely your decision.

An expected tip in this region would be 4-7 USD per person, per day, shared among your driver, bellmen, restaurant staff, and more. Your trip leader will discuss tipping further with you while on tour, and may also discuss having a group tipping kitty that will be fairly dispersed throughout your trip.

Peak Travel Times

Peak travel times in Laos, Vietnam & Cambodia are from November to April when the weather is cooler and ideal for outdoor activities. 

Another important time in Vietnam is Tet, the Vietnamese Lunar New Year, which typically occurs between late January and February. Tet is a vibrant and culturally rich time to visit, but this also means that attractions will be more crowded as locals travel to celebrate with their families, and there may be some restaurant/shop closures.

Safety and Security 

Most national governments provide regularly updated foreign travel advice on safety issues involved with international travel. We recommend that you check your own government's advice for the most up-to-date travel information before departure and ensure that your travel insurance covers you for all destinations and activities on your trip. 

We strongly recommend the use of a neck wallet or money belt to be worn under your clothing while travelling. This is for the safe-keeping of your passport, flight tickets, cash and other valuable items while on the flight, and while at your destination your neck wallet or money belt should contain what you need for the day only (never carry all your cash, just what you need for that day). Leave your valuable or sentimental jewellery at home—you won't need it while travelling. Many of the hotels have safety deposit boxes, which is the most secure way of storing your valuables. A lock is recommended for securing your luggage.

Your Inspiring Vacations Tour Leader or local representative will accompany you on all included activities listed on the itinerary, however, you'll have some free time to explore on your own if you wish. While your Inspiring Vacations Tour Leader or local representative will assist you as best they can with your requests and the options available outside your itinerary, please note Inspiring Vacations makes no representations about the safety of the activity or the standard of the operators running the activity. Please use your judgement when selecting an activity in your free time. 

Please also note that your Inspiring Vacations Tour Leader or local representative has the authority to amend or cancel any part of the itinerary if it's deemed necessary due to safety concerns.

Apps to Download
 

Some useful apps you may want to consider downloading before your tour include Google Translate, the lens function is especially useful when wanting to read product labels, signs, and menus. Google Maps with offline maps downloaded is great for easy navigation without being reliant on wifi. We also recommend downloading WhatsApp before you leave and using this to communicate with other group members while on tour. 

Itinerary Changes 

Sometimes, unexpected things can happen, like unpredictable weather or higher-than-usual crowds at attractions. In these situations, your tour leader might need to adjust the itinerary slightly. This flexibility ensures you get the most out of your trip! Your tour leader will always keep you informed of any changes and explain the reasoning behind them. Remember, when travelling with a group, sometimes going with the flow can lead to even more amazing experiences.

Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is strongly recommended on all our trips. We require that at a minimum you are covered for medical expenses including emergency repatriation. It is also important to consider forced pre-trip cancellations and how your chosen insurance policy may cover such circumstances, so please keep this in mind when choosing your provider. 

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. For international trips, you will be asked by your tour leader for your travel insurance details if they were not already added to your Traveller Hub account pre-departure.

If you have credit card insurance your Inspiring Vacations Tour Leader or local representative 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 your credit card details. Please contact your bank for these details before arriving in-country.

Before you depart, you will be asked to submit your Travel Insurance details through the booking holder's Traveller Hub account through the Inspiring Vacations website. This is to ensure that we have this information readily available should we ever need it. 

Health & Wellness

All travellers need to be in good physical health to participate fully on this trip. For the safety and wellbeing of yourself and others, if you are unwell before travelling, please stay at home and contact us to make alternative arrangements.

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 in the assessment of our Inspiring Vacations Tour Leader or local representative a 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 in their original packaging as they may not easily be obtained while travelling. If you are carrying medication, ensure you check your government's foreign travel advice for any local restrictions or requirements. 

Important Information for Customers with Mobility Limitations:

We want to ensure everyone has a fantastic and inclusive experience on our tours. If you require the use of a mobility aid, such as a cane, walker, or wheelchair, please disclose this information at the time of booking.

To ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for the entire group, our tours are designed with a specific itinerary in mind. This may involve moderate walking, uneven terrain, or stairs. While some itinerary adjustments may not be possible, we'll do our best to find alternative solutions within the planned activities whenever possible.

Open communication helps us ensure your trip is a perfect fit and it allows your local guide or tour leader to assist you where possible. 

Information for CPAP Users

If you use a CPAP machine, please let us know at the time of booking. Some portions of our itinerary, like overnight cruises or camping trips, may have limited access to power outlets. In such cases, we recommend travelling with portable battery packs. 

Certain activities, like overnight journeys on board smaller vessels, may not be suitable for CPAP use due to space limitations or noise concerns. We can discuss these potential limitations upfront and help you make informed decisions about your trip.

Documentation

Tour documentation is typically emailed to the lead passenger or your travel agent between 14-30 days before your scheduled departure. This will include your final hotel list. 

Official Travel Advice

To ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey, we recommend referring to the official travel advisory website of your home country for the latest updates on your chosen destination. These websites provide valuable information on:

• Safety and Security: Current risks and precautions for the country you'll be visiting.

• Visa Requirements: Ensure you have all the necessary documentation for entry.

• Entry and Exit: Up-to-date border regulations and health requirements.

Here are some helpful links to get you started:

• Australia: https://www.smartraveller.gov.au/destinations

• New Zealand: https://www.safetravel.govt.nz/

• America: https://travel.state.gov/

• India: https://www.mea.gov.in/travel-advisories.htm

• UK: https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice

In the unlikely event of a situation that could potentially disrupt your tour, we want to assure you of the following:

• Local Expertise: We maintain regular communication with our trusted travel partners in your destination.

• Constant Monitoring: We continuously monitor official travel advisories from relevant government websites.

• Flexibility and Safety: Should it become necessary, we will make appropriate adjustments to your itinerary to prioritise your health and safety.

By staying informed and working together, we can ensure a fantastic travel experience for you. We will post our own travel updates to our website here.

Connect with fellow travellers on Facebook

During your booking journey, you might have received an email inviting you to join a special Facebook group dedicated to your chosen destination. These vibrant online communities are exclusively for Inspiring Vacations travellers headed to the same incredible place. Joining this group unlocks a wealth of information and connections. Swap travel tips, share packing insights, or even see if anyone's interested in travelling together.  

We also regularly host insightful webinars featuring travel experts who share their tips and tricks for navigating your destination and maximising your itinerary. Don't miss out on this amazing opportunity to connect, learn, and get even more excited about your upcoming trip!

Optional Tours 

To secure your spot and enjoy the best rates, pre-booking these tours in advance is highly recommended. While some tours require a minimum number of participants to operate, you'll be fully refunded if the tour is cancelled at your destination for this reason. Our optional tours are typically led by your tour leader or local guide. Please note that transportation to and from the optional tours is generally not included, but your tour leader will be happy to assist you with navigating public transportation options like trains or taxis to reach the starting point.

Travelling in a group 

Group travel offers a unique experience: the chance to explore new places alongside fellow adventurers! While you may not know everyone initially, you'll all share a passion for travel and discovery. This can lead to some incredible shared experiences.

Your group mates will likely hail from different backgrounds and age groups. Embrace this diversity! It can lead to fresh perspectives and interesting conversations.

Being part of a group means respecting others' needs and preferences. A little patience goes a long way, especially when sticking to the itinerary to avoid holding others up. If you are asked to meet at a certain point and time, please ensure that you are there on time. 

Many satisfied travellers tell us the best tours are those where the group gels well. Your positive attitude and willingness to participate can significantly contribute to a fantastic experience for everyone. If you have any concerns at all, you are encouraged to resolve these with your Tour Leader or Local Guide directly. 

To protect everyone's privacy, we cannot share contact details or personal information about your fellow travellers before departure. However, introductions are made at the trip's start, paving the way for new friendships and shared adventures.

Community Guidelines

Inspiring Vacations does not tolerate any kind of violence, harassment (whether physical, verbal or sexual), or disrespect toward fellow travellers, our teams (Tour Leaders and local guides) or local communities.

To ensure the well-being of everyone on tour, decisions made by your Tour Leader are final.

Romantic relationships between travellers and the Tour Leader or local representative are not permitted while on tour.

Any behaviour that prevents your Tour Leader from continuing the itinerary as planned, breaks local laws or opposes any of these guidelines, may result in Inspiring Vacations removing you from the tour.

If something concerns you during your travels, please speak to your Tour Leader immediately. Alternatively, when you are on-tour and require immediate support you can contact our Customer Support team and select the “On-Tour” option when listening to the options. 

Tour Leader vs Local Guides

All group tours are accompanied by a dedicated Tour Leader. Note: if you are travelling on an extension of the core itinerary, you will be met by a local guide once that extension starts. Your Tour Leader aims to take the hassle out of your travels and to help you have the best trip possible. 

Your Tour Leader will provide information about the places you are travelling through, offer suggestions for things to do and see during any free time, and make recommendations on where locals like to eat and drink. While not being a tour guide in the traditional sense, you can expect them to have a broad general knowledge of the places visited, including historical, cultural, religious, and social aspects.

Coach Transportation 

The size of your coach will comfortably accommodate your group. There's usually room for some extra seats, ensuring a relaxing journey. Your luggage will be safely stored either underneath the coach or in a dedicated trailer.

While the exact coach style may vary depending on the departure, all our coaches offer comfortable seating. Keep in mind that Wi-Fi and charging outlets might not always be available. To stay connected and avoid dead batteries,  we recommend fully charging your devices beforehand or bringing a portable charger.

For longer journeys, we'll make sure to include ample restroom breaks along the way, so you can freshen up and recharge at your convenience, as facilities are not on-board the coach. 

Staying Connected

If you want to stay connected and access reliable internet while on tour, there are a few options available. It is possible to purchase a virtual sim and we recommend contacting your mobile phone provider for assistance in doing so. You can add a roaming data plan to your existing phone contract is another option, albeit an expensive one. You will need to arrange this before departure. Purchasing a local SIM at the airport is the final option. For a prepaid fee, you can get data by simply swapping your current SIM with your new SIM and depending on which package you purchase, you’ll be able to text and make phone calls, just as you would at home. 

We also recommend downloading WhatsApp and using this to communicate with other group members while on tour, and of course, after the tour if you’d like to stay in touch. Our tour leaders may also use this as a means of communicating essential trip information with you, as well as if you choose to add-on transfers to your booking, as your driver may use this to confirm arrangements with you.

Post-Tour Feedback

Once your booking is confirmed, you will receive a link to a post-purchase survey, which is your opportunity to share your feedback with us on your booking experience and interactions with our Sales and Customer Success teams. This feedback is invaluable to ensure that we are servicing our customers to the best of our ability. 

Furthermore, towards the end of your travels and while you are in your destination, you will receive an email from us with a link to an in-depth trip survey. It is very important to us that we hear from our customers to ensure that we continue to meet and exceed customers' expectations, so this will be your opportunity to let us know how your trip has been, what has worked well and potentially what could be improved.