17 Day Highlights Of Vietnam & Thailand Premium Small Group Tour

• Small group tour, up to 20 guests only
• 15 nights in 4-star accommodation
• 1 night on board a Halong Bay cruise
• Breakfast daily, 8 lunches & 3 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

• Bangkok - Grand Palace
• Bangkok - Floating Markets & Khlong Boat Tour
• Kanchanaburi - Erawan Falls
• Kanchanaburi - Kwai Noi River
• Ayutthaya - Ayutthaya Historical Park
• Sukhothai - Thai Cooking Class
• Sukhothai - Old Sukhothai
• Chiang Mai - Way Phra That Doi Suthep
• Chiang Mai - Walking Tour
• 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

Inspiring Tastes

• Visit a local house for a Thai-style cooking class. Your host will help you prepare local Sukhothai dishes and you will enjoy a delicious feast with your fellow travellers.
  Tantalise your tastebuds during your included Hanoi Street Food tour on day 3. Indulge in some of Northern Vietnam's finest cuisine.

Inspiring Sights

• To enhance your journey, we're offering guests a bonus sightseeing experience. Choose 1 of 5 options (options listed under 'Optional Tours').

1. Sukhothai, Celadon Painting
2. Chiang Mai, ChangChill Elephant Sanctuary
3. Hanoi, Water Puppet show
4. Hoi An, Memoirs show
5. Ho Chi Minh City, Mekong Delta tour

Inspiring Stay

• Enjoy 1 night aboard a traditional Vietnamese cruise ship in the picturesque Halong Bay, amongst the stunning limestone monoliths.

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

• Celadon Painting (Day 6) - $98 per person
• Ho Chi Minh Water Puppet, 06:30PM show (Day 14) - $62 per person
• ChangChill Elephant Sanctuary - Half Day Trip (Day 8) - $96 per person
• Hoi An Memoirs Show, 7:30pm show (Day 12) - $68 per person
• Ho Chi Minh City - Mekong Delta (Day 16) - $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.

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

• $111.00 per room, per night for double and twin share
• $111.00 per room, per night for solo travellers

Post Tour Accommodation

• $139.00 per room, per night for double and twin share
• $139.00 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
You will have the option choose single, twin or double.

Single travellers
When booking this tour, solo travellers will be presented with three options:

1 - Single Supplement
By paying an additional $1,335.00, in addition to the twin-share price, you guarantee the privacy of your own room throughout the entire trip.

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. All rooms provided to single travellers will be smaller than the twin rooms we recommend for two people. Unfortunately this is typical for Japan, as the cost to solely occupy a twin size room is incredibly high. We appreciate your understanding.

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 adding extra accommodation, flights, etc), make separate payments and have 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 trip 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 trip. 

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

Twin Share Bedding Configuration
At any time, bedding configuration is subject to confirmation by the hotel and based on availability. While you have the option to select either twin or double bedding at time of booking, our recommendation when travelling to Japan is to choose twin bedding, as the rooms are often bigger than those that have a double bed. If insisting on double bedding, please note that the rooms will be smaller and more narrow. As a general expectation, we cannot always guarantee bedding at all hotel stays.

Triple Share
Not available.

Payment Information 
This product requires a $99 deposit per person and full payment within 48 hours to secure your booking.

Once you have created your booking you will be directed to your invoice to choose your preferred payment method.

Cooling Off Period 
A refund will be available within the 7-day cooling-off period unless otherwise restricted by the purchased product. 

Where 'last minute' bookings are available within 71 days of departure, the cooling-off period does not apply and bookings are immediately non-refundable.

Terms and Conditions
Please review our terms and conditions here: https://www.inspiringvacations.com/au/page/terms-and-conditions 

Tour Suitability

• Discovering the different areas of Thailand and Vietnam 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 Vietnam 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.
• Thailand and Vietnam experiences 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.
• This tour is a combination of several smaller journeys throughout South East Asia. Some of your fellow passengers in Thailand may not continue onwards to Vietnam with you, and you will meet a new group in Vietnam. You may join a group where some travellers have already been together in areas like Laos Sapa or Ninh Binh prior to your arrival, or some of your fellow passengers may be travelling onwards to Cambodia or other parts of Vietnam when your tour comes to a finish. If you'd like more information on alternative tour options or extensions, please feel free to contact us.

Tet
Tet, Vietnam’s Lunar New Year festival, typically occurs in late January or early February and is the country’s most significant annual celebration. While this period offers a unique and vibrant experience, visitors should anticipate some disruptions. Many businesses may close, tourist attractions can become crowded, and transportation services are often heavily booked as locals travel nationwide. Although we strive to follow the planned itinerary during Tet, adjustments to transport, accommodation, or the sequence of destinations may be necessary. High demand for tickets might also lead to changes, such as replacing flights or overnight trains with daytime buses. We will inform you of any confirmed alterations before your trip.

Tet runs on different dates every year, we advise checking on Tet dates prior to booking your tour if you plan to travel over late January or early February.

Accommodation
The accommodation listed is subject to change. Any changes will be of an equal or higher standard. Please refer to your final documentation which will be provided approximately 14-30 days before departure for your confirmed hotel list.

Visas & Entry Requirements
Many countries require a visa and obtaining the correct visa for your tour and any countries you may transit through is your responsibility. We recommend you check your visa requirements as soon as you have booked your tour. 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 tour 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.

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

We strongly recommend all travellers have a policy that also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage or personal effects. For international tours, 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 guide may 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 tour. Our group tours are designed to immerse you in incredible sights and activities, often involving walking tours and self-exploration. To ensure you can fully embrace every moment, we recommend a moderate level of fitness for all of our tours. 

When selecting your tour 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 tour 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. 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 and we would be more than happy to assist you.

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 tour 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 tours, 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 tour.

Please ensure that you check the voltage used throughout the countries you are travelling to and if it will be compatible with your machines. For example, Japan runs on 100 volts vs Australia at 220-240 volts, meaning a voltage converter might be required.

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. 

Child policy 
Children must be 5 years old or above and share a room with parents at all times. Children are charged the same price as adults.

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/
• Canada: https://travel.gc.ca/travelling/advisories 
• India: https://www.mea.gov.in/travel-advisories.htm

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 tour!

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 need 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
The standard check in is 2pm. Should you be arriving earlier in the day, the hotel can hold your luggage until your room is ready.

Airport transfers are not included. Our transfer portal offers the option to book your airport transfers for an easier arrival experience (additional charges apply). Access to this portal will be available through your Traveller Hub once your booking is confirmed.

Optional Airport Transfers - Transfer Portal
Depending on the package purchased, you may have the option to add airport transfers to your booking and you can do so through your Traveller Hub account. We partner with an online marketplace where travellers can compare and select the transfer of their choice..

Inspiring Vacations acts as an agent on behalf of our transfer service partner and any service is delivered by the provider. Inspiring Vacations cannot be held liable for any loss resulting from the transfer service provided. It is the customer's responsibility to ensure any transfer booked meets the requirements of any other travel arrangements. Likewise, your tour leader or any of our on-ground representatives cannot be held responsible for the service of your transfer nor are they in a position to assist with amending your reservation. Any transfer booking is separate from any other booking with Inspiring Vacations, regardless of whether purchased with regards to the same travel journey.

When you make your transfer service booking, you will receive a confirmation email and this will include your meeting instructions, as well as direct contact details. Please ensure you print and bring this with you as you will need to ensure you can make direct contact with your transfer service provider. 

Welcome Meeting Instructions
On arrival you will be given a Welcome Letter with information on the first days of your tour. At 6.00pm you will meet your tour leader and the rest of the group for a brief welcome meeting on details for your time in Vietnam.

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 tour, 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 tour 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 visit the Contact Us page on our website.

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.

Tour Pace
This tour is categorised as: 3 out of 5
Balanced exploration with walking tours: Our most popular style, this tour offers a good mix of planned activities and free time. Expect moderate daily walking tours, so pack comfortable shoes.

Group Size 
Minimum: 4 people, Maximum: 20 people

Escorted Style 
This tour is fully escorted by a dedicated tour leader in each country, who will accompany you throughout the tour.

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 (optional)
• Arrival airport transfer
• Departure airport transfer
• Visas
• Travel insurance (compulsory)
• Tipping
• Anything not mentioned in the itinerary
• Optional activities
• Personal expenses

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 may not be 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
Travelling in a group means you will experience both the pleasures and perhaps at times, some of the frustrations of travelling with people you don’t know. The good news is you all have at least one thing in common: a love of travel and exploration. Your fellow travellers will probably come from different parts of the world, and fall into different age groups. 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 overall benefit of the group. 

We kindly ask that you are requested to be at a place at a certain time that you respect this request from your tour leader or local guide. Due to privacy reasons, we are unable to provide you with contact details and any personal information about your fellow travellers booked on your tour before departure.

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

Any behaviour that prevents your Inspiring Vacations 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 Inspiring Vacations 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. 

Inspiring Vacations Tour Leader vs. Local Guide
While both tour leaders and local guides enrich your travel experience, their roles differ. Tour leaders, who often accompany you for the entire tour, handle logistics, ensure smooth sailing of the itinerary, and act as your point of contact for any concerns. They might provide general information about destinations, but in-depth historical or cultural knowledge often comes from local guides. Local guides, frequently native to the area, lead tours at specific sites or attractions, offering a deeper understanding of the local history, art, or way of life.

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. 

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 to improve your overall experience. 

This flexibility ensures you get the most out of your tour! 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.

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 tour 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.

Getting Around
While touring Vietnam, 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 tour leaders will assist you at both departure and arrival points to ensure a smooth experience.

Hotel Ratings
Star ratings can differ between countries, reflecting diverse standards and amenities. 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 Vietnam, 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 tour 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. 

A lockable suitcase with wheels is ideal for this tour. Many tours will include internal flights which often have luggage weight restrictions, and 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.

Clothing:

• Lightweight and breathable clothing: Opt for natural fabrics like cotton or linen, suitable for warm and humid weather.
• Layered clothing: A light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings, especially in the north during winter (December–February).
• Comfortable walking shoes: For exploring cities and hiking.
• Sandals or flip-flops: Easy to wear for the beach or casual outings.
• Rain gear: A lightweight rain jacket or poncho for unexpected downpours.
• Swimwear: For beaches, pools, and boat trips.
• Modest attire: Long trousers and tops with sleeves for temple visits.

Accessories:

• Daypack or small backpack: Ideal for day trips.
• Hat and sunglasses: Protection against the sun.
• Reusable water bottle: Stay hydrated and reduce plastic waste.
• Quick-dry towel: Handy for beaches and hikes.

Health and Toiletries:

• Sunscreen: Essential in the tropical sun.
• Insect repellent: To guard against mosquitoes.
• Hand sanitiser and tissues: For hygiene on the go.

Travel Essentials:

• Travel documents: Passport, visa, travel insurance, and photocopies.
• Money: Vietnamese dong (VND) and a travel-friendly credit card.
• Electronics: Phone, charger, and a power bank.
• Travel adapter: Vietnam uses Type A, C, or F plugs (220V).

Climate
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.

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 Vietnam's varied climate will help ensure a comfortable and enjoyable travel experience.

Currency and ATMs
In Vietnam, the official currency is the Vietnamese Dong (VND). 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
While travelling with Inspiring Vacations you'll enjoy iconic sightseeing, as well as experience the vast array of local cuisines. 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 leader or local guide will also be able to give suggestions on which restaurants to try during your tour. 

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.

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. 

Local Customs
When travelling in Vietnam, 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 Vietnamese culture.

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

This tour will have a tipping kitty, a pooled fund collected at the start of the tour to fairly distribute tips among service providers such as drivers, bell staff, local guides, and restaurant staff. Your tour leader will explain the tipping process in more detail during your trip and may suggest managing a group tipping kitty to ensure gratuities are shared appropriately. We recommend a tipping kitty of 30USD for the duration of your tour, which will be shared between Thailand and Vietnam.

Please note that the tipping kitty does not include your tour leader. A personal tip would be greatly appreciated if you feel your leader has provided exceptional service. We recommend tipping your leader 4-7 USD, though the amount is entirely at your discretion, based on service quality, trip duration, and the level of involvement of your leader.

Peak Travel Times
Peak travel times in Vietnam 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 tour. 

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. While your Inspiring Vacations tour leader or local guide 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 guide 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.

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 tour 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 tour has been, what has worked well and potentially what could be improved. 

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 
Your tour concludes at the hotel after breakfast on day 9. At the appropriate time make your own way to the airport for your onward flight. 

Airport transfers are not included. Our transfer portal offers the option to book your airport transfers for an easier arrival experience (additional charges apply). Access to this portal will be available through your Traveller Hub once your booking is confirmed.

If Inspiring Vacations has not provided your international airfares, please ensure you provide your flight details via your Traveller Hub portal no later than 90 days prior to travel so that your transfers can be confirmed.

This is a land-only package.

This package does not include international airfares. If you would like to add airfares to your booking our flight portal will be available via your Traveller Hub. The flight portal will allow you to search for all available airfares to your destination. The function works like most general flight search engines allowing you to select your preferred airline, book different cabin classes (eg. Business class) and view flight durations and transit times to your destination. 

The flight portal will be available via your Traveller Hub once the following criteria has been met:

• Your booking is confirmed
• Your departure date is within 11 months
• You  have completed your passenger detail form

Visit our Flight Hub for more information on terms and conditions, amending your flights and information on luggage allowances.