vientiane to vietnam - 17 days go guide vieng, …...vientiane to vietnam - 17 daysgo guide...

5
Vientiane to Vietnam - 17 days go guide don't leave home without it A World Of Discovery Vientiane to Vietnam - 17 days updated on 15-11-2011 www.onthegotours.com UK 020 7371 1113 [email protected] AUS 1300 855 684 [email protected] NZ 0800 44 77 69 CAN 1 866 890 7038 USA 1 866 377 6147 SA 0800 982 686 This Go Guide has been compiled with care and good faith. It gives an accurate illustration of the proposed arrangements for this holiday. Circumstances beyond our control such as changes in local conditions, inclement weather or other reasons could force us to make changes to this itinerary. This document does not form part of a contract between the traveller and on the go and their affiliates. Any costs shown are subject to change though are an accurate reflection of costs at time of writing. Please also note that visa requirements are subject to change and are the responsibility of the traveller and not that of on the go - 1 - Take an unforgettable journey through the beautiful landscapes and captivating cities of Laos and Vietnam. Discover the delights of Luang Prabang and Hoi An, visit revered Buddhist temples and ornate palaces, explore mystical caves and colourful markets, cruise Halong and the Mekong and top off your adventure in Saigon! WHAT YOU SEE AND WHAT YOU GET Trip Highlights Vientiane - capital of Laos, Wat Sisaket, Wat Prakeo, the COPE Centre, That Luang Stupa, Patuxay Monument and the Buddha Park Thalat Market and ethnic minority villages Vang Xang - an 11th century archaeological site Vang Vieng - a picturesque riverside village, Tham Jang Caves, Ban Huai Ngai village Luang Prabang - the UNESCO Listed former royal capital, Temples of Visoun, Ahan and Sene, a weaving centre, the former Royal Palace, superb views from Mount Phousi Pak Ou Caves - crammed with Buddha statues and Khouangsi Waterfall Hanoi - Hoan Kiem Lake and the Ancient Quarter Halong Bay - UNESCO Listed region with thousands of beautiful limestone peaks and islets Hue - ancient citadel, Imperial Purple City, Royal Tombs, Thien Mu Pagoda and monastery Marble Mountains - grottoes laden with Buddhist sculpture Hoi An - UNESCO Listed ancient town, famed for its beautifully preserved old city, tailors, handicrafts markets and nearby beaches Saigon - Notre Dame Cathedral, Old Post Office and War Remnants Museum Mekong Delta - a maze of waterways, fertile farm land and floating villages Cai Be Floating Market and Dong Hoa Hiep Island Can Tho - lively market town in the Mekong Delta and nearby Cai Rang floating market What's Included 16 breakfasts, 5 lunches and 3 dinner 14 nights 4 star and special class hotels, 1 night deluxe junk boat and 1 overnight sleeper train (Junk boat: private cabin, Sleeper train: basic, 4 berth cabin.) Economy class flights Luang Prabang - Hanoi and Danang - Saigon Halong Bay Junk boat cruise Bicycle ride to Tra Que village and cooking demonstration Sampan and row boat journeys in the Mekong Delta Airport arrival transfer day 1 and departure transfer day 17 Guided sightseeing - Vientaine, Vang Vieng, Luang Prabang, Hanoi, Halong Bay, Hue, Ho Ain, Mekong Delta and Saigon Escorted by an English speaking Loatian and Vietnamese tour guides. Specialist guide in the Mekong All relevant transfers and transportation in private air-conditioned vehicles Visa approval letter (excl. stamping fee required upon arrival) Maximum group size: 20 travellers What's Not Included Tipping Kitty: $30 - $40 USD Entrance Fees: $40 - $50 USD International flights and visas. Vietnam visa letter included - stamping fee required upon arrival Tip for your tour guides. We recommend you allow USD$2 - 4 per day, per traveller. Tipping your guides is an entirely personal gesture DETAILED ITINERARY Day 1 : Vientiane Saturday. Welcome to Laos! Airport arrival transfer and hotel check in. Spend the afternoon and evening at leisure. Overnight - Vientiane Day 2 : Vientiane city tour After breakfast we explore the charming and laid- back capital of Laos with a city tour. We visit the

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Page 1: Vientiane to Vietnam - 17 days go guide Vieng, …...Vientiane to Vietnam - 17 daysgo guide don't leave home without it A World Of Discovery Vientiane to Vietnam - 17 days updated

Vientiane to Vietnam - 17 daysgo guidedon't leave home without it

A World Of Discovery

Vientiane to Vietnam - 17 days updated on 15-11-2011

www.onthegotours.comUK 020 7371 1113 [email protected]    AUS 1300 855 684 [email protected]     NZ 0800 44 77 69     CAN 1 866 890 7038     USA 1 866 377 6147     SA 0800 982 686

This Go Guide has been compiled with care and good faith. It gives an accurate illustration of the proposed arrangements for this holiday. Circumstances beyond our control such as changes in local conditions, inclement weather or otherreasons could force us to make changes to this itinerary. This document does not form part of a contract between the traveller and on the go and their affiliates. Any costs shown are subject to change though are an accurate reflection ofcosts at time of writing. Please also note that visa requirements are subject to change and are the responsibility of the traveller and not that of on the go

- 1 -

Take an unforgettable journey through thebeautiful landscapes and captivating citiesof Laos and Vietnam. Discover the delightsof Luang Prabang and Hoi An, visit reveredBuddhist temples and ornate palaces,explore mystical caves and colourfulmarkets, cruise Halong and the Mekong andtop off your adventure in Saigon!

WHAT YOU SEE AND WHAT YOU GET

Trip Highlights• Vientiane - capital of Laos, Wat Sisaket,

Wat Prakeo, the COPE Centre, ThatLuang Stupa, Patuxay Monument and theBuddha Park

• Thalat Market and ethnic minority villages• Vang Xang - an 11th century

archaeological site

• Vang Vieng - a picturesque riversidevillage, Tham Jang Caves, Ban Huai Ngaivillage

• Luang Prabang - the UNESCO Listedformer royal capital, Temples of Visoun,Ahan and Sene, a weaving centre, theformer Royal Palace, superb views fromMount Phousi

• Pak Ou Caves - crammed with Buddhastatues and Khouangsi Waterfall

• Hanoi - Hoan Kiem Lake and the AncientQuarter

• Halong Bay - UNESCO Listed region withthousands of beautiful limestone peaksand islets

• Hue - ancient citadel, Imperial PurpleCity, Royal Tombs, Thien Mu Pagoda andmonastery

• Marble Mountains - grottoes laden withBuddhist sculpture

• Hoi An - UNESCO Listed ancient town,famed for its beautifully preserved old city,tailors, handicrafts markets and nearbybeaches

• Saigon - Notre Dame Cathedral, Old PostOffice and War Remnants Museum

• Mekong Delta - a maze of waterways,fertile farm land and floating villages

• Cai Be Floating Market and Dong HoaHiep Island

• Can Tho - lively market town in theMekong Delta and nearby Cai Rangfloating market

What's Included• 16 breakfasts, 5 lunches and 3 dinner• 14 nights 4 star and special class hotels,

1 night deluxe junk boat and 1 overnightsleeper train (Junk boat: private cabin,Sleeper train: basic, 4 berth cabin.)

• Economy class flights Luang Prabang -Hanoi and Danang - Saigon

• Halong Bay Junk boat cruise• Bicycle ride to Tra Que village and

cooking demonstration• Sampan and row boat journeys in the

Mekong Delta• Airport arrival transfer day 1 and

departure transfer day 17

• Guided sightseeing - Vientaine, VangVieng, Luang Prabang, Hanoi, HalongBay, Hue, Ho Ain, Mekong Delta andSaigon

• Escorted by an English speaking Loatianand Vietnamese tour guides. Specialistguide in the Mekong

• All relevant transfers and transportation inprivate air-conditioned vehicles

• Visa approval letter (excl. stamping feerequired upon arrival)

• Maximum group size: 20 travellers

What's Not Included• Tipping Kitty: $30 - $40 USD• Entrance Fees: $40 - $50 USD• International flights and visas. Vietnam

visa letter included - stamping feerequired upon arrival

• Tip for your tour guides. We recommendyou allow USD$2 - 4 per day, pertraveller. Tipping your guides is an entirelypersonal gesture

DETAILED ITINERARY

Day 1 : VientianeSaturday. Welcome to Laos! Airport arrival transferand hotel check in. Spend the afternoon andevening at leisure. Overnight - Vientiane

Day 2 : Vientiane city tour

After breakfast we explore the charming and laid-back capital of Laos with a city tour. We visit the

Page 2: Vientiane to Vietnam - 17 days go guide Vieng, …...Vientiane to Vietnam - 17 daysgo guide don't leave home without it A World Of Discovery Vientiane to Vietnam - 17 days updated

Southeast Asiago guidedon't leave home without it

Vientiane to Vietnam - 17 days updated on 15-11-2011

www.onthegotours.comUK 020 7371 1113 [email protected]    AUS 1300 855 684 [email protected]     NZ 0800 44 77 69     CAN 1 866 890 7038     USA 1 866 377 6147     SA 0800 982 686

This Go Guide has been compiled with care and good faith. It gives an accurate illustration of the proposed arrangements for this holiday. Circumstances beyond our control such as changes in local conditions, inclement weather or otherreasons could force us to make changes to this itinerary. This document does not form part of a contract between the traveller and on the go and their affiliates. Any costs shown are subject to change though are an accurate reflection ofcosts at time of writing. Please also note that visa requirements are subject to change and are the responsibility of the traveller and not that of on the go

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oldest Buddhist monastery temple in the country- Wat Si Saket – and the former royal temple ofHaw Pha Kaeo, built to house the famed EmeraldBuddha. Today it serves as the national museumof religious art. Learn about Laos’ tragic pastand present suffering at the COPE Centre, anorganization that works with victims of unexplodedbombs and mines. Next visit Pha That Luang, themost important monument in Laos and a symbol ofboth Buddhist religion and Lao sovereignty.

We also stop to view the imposing Patuxaymonument - Vientiane’s own Arc de Triomphe.Later in the afternoon enjoy time exploringthe hundreds of Hindu and Buddhist sculpturesscattered throughout Buddha Park. End the daywith a sunset dinner besides the Mekong River.Overnight - Vientiane (B, D)

Day 3 : Vang Vieng

Vientiane – Vang Vieng. We leave the capital earlyand journey north through lush countryside to VangVieng. Along the way we will stop at the colourfulmarket of Thalat, where local hill tribes come totrade and shop and also visit the archaeological siteof Vang Xang that dates back to the 11th century.Arriving at Vang Vieng, nestled on the banks ofthe Nam Song River, the remainder of the dayoffers free time. Perhaps opt to explore the localcaves, take a bicycle ride through the surroundingcountryside or go tubing along the river. Overnight- Vang Vieng (B, D)

Day 4 : Tham Jang Cave, BanHuai Ngai village

Vang Vieng – Luang Prabang. This morning weexplore the famous caves of Tham Jang once usedby the local people as a hideout during Chineseinvasions. We observe the lifestyles of the localpeople at Ban Huai Ngai village before making ourway further north to the UNESCO World Heritage

listed city of Luang Prabang. Overnight - LuangPrabang (B)

Day 5 : Temples of LuangPrabang

Consider rising early this morning to view the dailyritual of saffron-clad monks and their processiondown the streets of Luang Prabang collectingalms from the residents. After we commence oursightseeing tour of this enchanting city, starting witha visit to the oldest temple in Luang Prabang, WatVisoun, and the banyan tree graced grounds ofWat Aham. We stop at a weaving centre beforemarveling at the former Royal Palace, now anational museum and home to gilded rooms andBuddha artifacts.

In the afternoon we stop at ethnic minority villagesbefore arriving at the beautiful Khouangsi waterfall.Dip in the turquoise pools or take a walk alongthe forest trails. Tonight there is the option to learnto cook tasty local cuisine at a local restaurant.Overnight - Luang Prabang (B)

Day 6 : Wat Sene & Wat XiengThong

Discover more of Luang Prabang’s holy sites witha morning visit to Wat Sene and the magnificentWat Xieng Thong. Then we set sail on a sceniccruise up the Mekong River to visit the incrediblePak Ou caves, which are crammed with Buddhaimages of all shapes and sizes, stopping at villagesen route to sample local rice wine and shop for localhandicrafts. Overnight - Luang Prabang. (B, L)

Day 7 : Free time

A free day to relax and explore Luang Prabang.Elephant rides, cycling and kayaking can bearranged locally. Overnight - Luang Prabang (B)

Day 8 : Fly Luang Prabang -Hanoi

Saturday. Luang Prabang - Hanoi. Today wefly from Luang Prabang to Hanoi in Vietnam.Upon arrival, the rest of the day is free toexplore Vietnam’s gracious capital. Lively markets,beautiful lakes, ancient pagoda’s and the thriving,historic old city, are all easily navigated on foot.Overnight - Hanoi (B)

Day 9 : Junk boat cruisingHanoi – Halong Bay. A scenic drive early thismorning leads us to the stunningly beautifulUNESCO World Heritage Site of Halong Bay.Boarding our traditional wooden junk boat we cruisethe emerald waters soaking up the panoramic vistaof the thousand or so karst limestone islands thatstud the bay.

Later opt for a refreshing swim in one of themany sheltered coves before taking row boats tothe floating fishing village of Vong Vieng. Tonight,there's a Vientnamese cooking demonstration heldon the sundeck before an impressive seafooddinner is served. Overnight - Halong Bay, DeluxeJunk Boat (B, L, D)

Page 3: Vientiane to Vietnam - 17 days go guide Vieng, …...Vientiane to Vietnam - 17 daysgo guide don't leave home without it A World Of Discovery Vientiane to Vietnam - 17 days updated

Southeast Asiago guidedon't leave home without it

Vientiane to Vietnam - 17 days updated on 15-11-2011

www.onthegotours.comUK 020 7371 1113 [email protected]    AUS 1300 855 684 [email protected]     NZ 0800 44 77 69     CAN 1 866 890 7038     USA 1 866 377 6147     SA 0800 982 686

This Go Guide has been compiled with care and good faith. It gives an accurate illustration of the proposed arrangements for this holiday. Circumstances beyond our control such as changes in local conditions, inclement weather or otherreasons could force us to make changes to this itinerary. This document does not form part of a contract between the traveller and on the go and their affiliates. Any costs shown are subject to change though are an accurate reflection ofcosts at time of writing. Please also note that visa requirements are subject to change and are the responsibility of the traveller and not that of on the go

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Day 10 : Hidden grottoes,Halong Bay

Halong Bay - Hanoi - Hue. Start the day witha Tai Chi class on the sundeck or a traditionalmassage. After exploring a lofty grotto hiddenbeneath towering cliffs, we return to port.

Arriving to Hanoi mid afternoon an hour or sois spent exploring the quixotic web of streets,known as the ‘36 streets of the old quarter’ bycyclo (rickshaw). The motorbike swarming narrowlanes are each named after various guilds of thecity’s artisan who established themselves herecenturies ago. There is Silver Street, Silk Street,Comb Street, Paper Street and more. We explorethe maze of rambling streets framed by narrowfront tube houses and may have a chance tosample the exotic fruits, sizzling noodle dishesand delightfully sticky snacks being offers by thepavement vendors. After time to freshen up weboard our overnight train (4 berth sleeper cabin,basic standard) on the ‘Reunification Express’railway line to Hue. Overnight - Sleeper train (B)

Day 11 : Imperial Hue

Arriving into Hue we have a hotel breakfast beforeembarking on a sightseeing tour of the 19th-centuryNguyen empire capital. We visit the Thien MuPagoda, home to the oldest monastery in the city,whose 21m high tower has become something of asymbol for Hue and the citadel. Within the citadelis the Imperial Purple Palace, an exact copy ofthe Forbidden City in Beijing, with its impressiveramparts, formal moats and imperial palaces, someof which lay in ruin.

In the countryside lies the Royal Tombs of theNguyen kings, here we’ll view the elaboratemausoleums of Emperors Tu Duc and Khai Dinh.As the sun sets opt for a cruise in a long boatalong the gentle Perfume River or enjoy someretail therapy at the ever lively Dong Ba Market, a

minute's walk from our hotel. Overnight - Hue (B,L)

Day 12 : Buddhist sanctuariesHue - Road of the Ocean Clouds - Hoi An. Today wetake the scenic Hai Van Pass (Road of the OceanClouds), which offers magnificent views of beachesto one side and lush hills to the other. En route westop for a walk along China beach and visit peaksof the Marble Mountain. Reaching the summitof Thuy Son Mountain (Mountain of Water), weenter the naturally formed grottoes-cum- Buddhistsanctuaries. The enormous cathedral like HuyenKhrong cave is illuminated by shards of light andthe towering seated Buddha carved from the rockface is spectacular.

Onward to Hoi An. The charming, old-worldtrading port of Hoi An with it cobbled streets,traditional homes and tiny shop houses is aperfect place to lose yourself in a by goneera. Boutique restaurants, hip cafes along thewaterfront, delightful craft shops and artisansincluding some of Asia’s best bespoke tailors(whose services come at a nominal price), all canbe found here.

On a short walking tour of the enchanting historicaltown, we’ll visit the Chua Ong Pagoda, ChineseAssembly Hall, 200-year-old Tam Ky house, formermerchants’ homes and the 400 year-old JapaneseCovered Bridge. Overnight - Hoi An (B)

Day 13 : Tra Que village

A bicycle ride into the countryside, leads us toTra Que village. Here,we discover age old farmingpractises and learn about traditional medicine. It’s ahands on experience today where we’ll assist withtending the fields and gardens and cooking lunch.Overnight - Hoi An (B, L)

Day 14 : Hoi An - your way

A free day for you relax or further sightsee. You maywish to take a relaxing rowboat journey along theriver or spend the day lazing by the beach or hotelpool. It’s also possible to take an optional excursionto the most holiest and evocative of Vietnam’sCham sites, My Son or to Quang Ngai, the site ofthe My Lai massacre memorial. The massacre wasa significant turning point in the Vietnam War andthe story is told through photo presentation on awalk through the village. Overnight - Hoi An (B)

Day 15 : Crusing the Mekong

Hoi An - Saigon. Early morning flight to Saigon.Drive to the Mekong Delta. Often referred to as the‘rice bowl’ of Vietnam, the fertile Mekong Delta isfamous for its abundant harvests of tropical fruits,flowers and rice, as well as it fantastic views whileboating along the canals. Taking our sampan fromVinh Long we’ll cruise Cai Be’s colourful and livelyfloating markets and continue downstream throughthe maze of waterways visiting local cottageindustries that produce popcorn, coco candies andpaper along the way. Lunch is served today in atraditional wooden home on Dong Hoa Hiep Island.Overnight - Can Tho (B, L)

Day 16 : Mekong & Saigon

Can Tho - Saigon. Early today we visit Cai Rangfloating market and drive to Saigon. Once calledthe Pearl of the Orient, modern Saigon is a thrivingmetropolis on the move. Sleek sky scrapers,gourmet restaurants, designer malls and swankybars and spas are scattered between ancientpagodas, colonial era landmarks and lively streetmarkets. Our walking tour of Saigon includes visitsto the Notre Dame Cathedral, Old Post office andthe sombering War Remnants Museum. Evening atleisure. Overnight - Saigon (B)

Day 17 : SaigonMonday. Today offers free time in Saigon till yourdeparture transfer to the airport. Opt for a relaxing

Page 4: Vientiane to Vietnam - 17 days go guide Vieng, …...Vientiane to Vietnam - 17 daysgo guide don't leave home without it A World Of Discovery Vientiane to Vietnam - 17 days updated

Southeast Asiago guidedon't leave home without it

Vientiane to Vietnam - 17 days updated on 15-11-2011

www.onthegotours.comUK 020 7371 1113 [email protected]    AUS 1300 855 684 [email protected]     NZ 0800 44 77 69     CAN 1 866 890 7038     USA 1 866 377 6147     SA 0800 982 686

This Go Guide has been compiled with care and good faith. It gives an accurate illustration of the proposed arrangements for this holiday. Circumstances beyond our control such as changes in local conditions, inclement weather or otherreasons could force us to make changes to this itinerary. This document does not form part of a contract between the traveller and on the go and their affiliates. Any costs shown are subject to change though are an accurate reflection ofcosts at time of writing. Please also note that visa requirements are subject to change and are the responsibility of the traveller and not that of on the go

- 4 -

foot massage, shop for souvenirs at Ben ThanhMarket or visit the grand Independence Palace,with its secret bunker and military command centrebeneath!

If extending your stay consider joining us on a daytrip to Chu Chi. Here you can go underground toexplore the vast network of tunnels and hideoutsused by Viet Cong guerrilla fighters, see boobytraps, trap doors or test your skill with an AK 47 atthe firing range. Visit our website for more info.(B)

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO

Health RequirementsIt is recommended that you be vaccinated forTetanus and Polio, if you haven't had a booster inthe last ten years. Food and waterborne diseasesare more common, so we recommend vaccinationsfor typhoid (valid 3 years), Hepatitis A (validityvaries) and Diphtheria.

Malaria in VietnamAreas with malaria: Rural only, except none in theRed River Delta and the coast north of Nha Trang.Rare cases in the Mekong Delta. None in Da Nang,Haiphong, Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon), NhaTrang, and Qui Nhon.Estimated relative risk of malaria for travelers: Low

Malaria in CambodiaAreas with malaria: Present throughout the country,except none at the temple complex at Angkor Wat,Phnom Penh, and around Lake Tonle Sap.Estimated relative risk of malaria for travelers:Moderate

Malaria in LaosAreas with malaria: All, except none in the cityof Vientiane. Estimated relative risk of malaria fortravelers: Very low.

Information provided by the Centre for DiseaseControl & Prevention, USA and is offered asguidence only.

Yellow fever is not present in Vietnam, Cambodiaor Laos but a yellow fever vaccination certificateis required from those travelling from an infectedregion. Vaccination and health information canchange so please contact your local health careprovider for the most up to date information prior totravelling.

ClimateVIETNAMVietnam has a varied climate due to its geography.The south is hot year round and has two seasons:The wet season lasts from May to October,with brief, daily showers. The dry season fromNovember to April is generally sunny and humid. Inthe north, the summer months (May to October) arehot and there is the occasional burst of heavy rain.In the winter (December to February) temperaturesdrop in the north and it can be damp. The coastalregion of central Vietnam is blessed with longmonths of sunshine, although there is rainfall inNovember and December. At this time there can

also be some typhoon activity in the central coastalregion.

CAMBODIACambodia has a tropical monsoon climate with twoseasons; Rainy season from May to November,when the countryside is lush and green, and dryseason from late November to April, when thereare long days of glorious sunshine and clear skies.Temperatures in Cambodia remain fairly constantand warm throughout the year, apart from in thenorth, when winters (December to March) aregenerally colder.

LAOSNovember through to April are the best monthsto travel to Laos, when the weather is warmand dry and the nights are comfortable and cool.Temperatures typically begin to rise around Marchand the rain arrives in May or June. From Junethrough to August the humidity can rise and shorttropical downpours are common. September andOctober can still bring the occasional shower.

TimeVietnam, Cambodia and Laos are 7 hours ahead ofGreenwich Mean Time(GMT)

CurrencyCURRENCY - VIETNAMUSD notes are widely accepted and shopkeepersuse both currencies interchangeably. You can oftenpay for items in USD and receive your change inUSD notes and coins in VND. VND is always goodfor small purchases but there is really no need toexchange hard currency into VND prior to arrival.Make sure that your USD bills are crisp and cleanand you will have no problem using or exchangingthese throughout your stay. GBP, Euro & AUDare also widely acceptable though you will needto exchange these into USD or VND at a Bureaude change or bank. ATM machines can be foundin all major cities though it is not common to paywith credit card in restaurants, cafes or shops forpurchases.We recommend you take a mixture of cash(preferably USD) and credit/ debit cards for ATM's.

• USD 1 = VND20,800• GBP 1 = VND33,000• EURO 1 = VND28,500• AUD 1 = VND20,500

VND = Vietnamese Dong. (subject to fluctuation).

CURRENCY - CAMBODIAUSD is also widely accepted in Cambodia andeven preferred in larger stores and supermarkets.However, the Riel is more practical and economicalfor purchasing incidentals and paying taxi drivers.Banks will exchange all major currencies withrelative ease. There are now ATMs withinternational access in major cities which dispenseUS dollars. US Dollars, Euro, Pound Sterlingand other major currencies can be convertedto Cambodian Riel locally in most banks andinternational airports, money exchangers are alsoplentiful and often offer a slightly better rate thanbanks. However foreign currency is also widelyaccepted and often desired more so can give theshopper more buying power. ATMs can be found

in all larger towns and cities and some five starhotels. We recommend you take a mixture of cash(preferably USD) and credit/ debit cards for ATM's.

• USD 1 = KHR4,000• GBP 1 = KHR6,500• EURO 1 = KHR5,700• AUD 1 = KHR4,100

KHR = Cambodian Riel. (subject to fluctuation).

CURRENCY - LAOSThree currencies are used interchangeably foreveryday transactions. These are Kip (LAK), Thaibaht (THB) and USD. All major currencies areexchangeable in the main towns but USD is themost useful currency (cash) to hold as it canbe exchanged and used in most places. Dollarbills must be in good condition and not torn orripped. In smaller towns and villages, LAK isusually preferred. The rule of thumb is that foreveryday small purchases, prices are quoted inLAK. ATMs are only available in Vientiane andLuang Prabang and dispense a maximum of approxUSD$70 (in LAK) at any one time. Licensed moneychangers exist in Vientiane and Luang Prabang.Their rates are similar to the banks and they stayopen longer. We recommend you take a mixture ofcash (preferably USD) and credit/ debit cards forATM's.

• USD 1 = LAK 8,000• GBP 1 = LAK12,440• EURO 1 = LAK10,800• AUD 1 = LAK7900

LAK = Lao Kip. (subject to fluctuation).

Holiday MoneyFunds collected in Vietnam, Cambodia or Laos forentrance fees and tip kitty (if applicable to yourholiday) is payable in USD.

Essential Packing• Sleep sheet if taking an overnight sleeper

train. These also can be easily purchasedin Hanoi at a cost of USD$5

• Lightweight cotton garments.• Comfortable walking shoes in addition to

flip flogs/ thongs• DEET based mosquito repellant &

antihistamine cream• Bring a 2 flat prong (type A) and a 2 round

pin (type C) electrical adaptors. A universaladaptor will cover all bases

• Lightweight, fold up raincoat/ poncho.• Two spare passport photos & a photocopy

of your passport• A small daypack for your day-to-day needs.• Sunglasses, hat, sunscreen, swim costume

and torch

Arrival TransfersIf your tour or short stay includes an airport arrivaltransfer (as indicated in the 'What you Get' sectionof this Go Guide) our arrival procedure is as follows:

Arrive to Hanoi - Noi Bai International Airport,Saigon - Tan Son Nhat International Airport or inLaos, Wattay International Airport. In Laos, attendto immigration by completing an immigration formand submiting your photograph and visa fee, then

Page 5: Vientiane to Vietnam - 17 days go guide Vieng, …...Vientiane to Vietnam - 17 daysgo guide don't leave home without it A World Of Discovery Vientiane to Vietnam - 17 days updated

Southeast Asiago guidedon't leave home without it

Vientiane to Vietnam - 17 days updated on 15-11-2011

www.onthegotours.comUK 020 7371 1113 [email protected]    AUS 1300 855 684 [email protected]     NZ 0800 44 77 69     CAN 1 866 890 7038     USA 1 866 377 6147     SA 0800 982 686

This Go Guide has been compiled with care and good faith. It gives an accurate illustration of the proposed arrangements for this holiday. Circumstances beyond our control such as changes in local conditions, inclement weather or otherreasons could force us to make changes to this itinerary. This document does not form part of a contract between the traveller and on the go and their affiliates. Any costs shown are subject to change though are an accurate reflection ofcosts at time of writing. Please also note that visa requirements are subject to change and are the responsibility of the traveller and not that of on the go

- 5 -

collect your luggage and proceed to the arrivalshall.

In Vietnam proceed to the immigration counterand present your invitation letter. Complete animmigration form and submit your photgraphs andstamping fee of USD$25 (this can take some time).After collecting your luggage proceed to the arrivalhall.

As you enter the arrivals hall, look for our on the gorepresentative. He/she will be holding a prominenton the go tours logo signboard. After meeting youwill be escorted to our awaiting transportation andtransfered to our tour start hotel

If, for any reason you have trouble locating ourrepresentative (after waiting 20 minutes in thearrival hall) or your flight is delayed please call theemergency contact number as stated on your tourvoucher.

Pre-tour accommodationIf arriving on day 1 of a holiday, that includes anairport arrival transfer (as indicated in the 'What youGet' section of this Go Guide) we will be at theairport, ready to transfer you to your hotel. Furtherif you are booking pre-tour accommodation with usan airport arrival transfer will also be provided. Ifarriving prior to 9am on day 1 (essentially on aflight that arrives very, very early in the morning)you will need to purchase a night of pre-touraccommodation to save you waiting until standardhotel check in time, which is generally 2pm.

VisasVIETNAM VISA REQUIREMENTSMost nationalities including British, Australian,Canadian, New Zealand, South African and USApassport holders require a tourist visa to visitVietnam. Travellers can choose to independentlyapply (or we can arrange this for you, see notesbelow) for a 30 day tourist visa (single or multipleentry) from the nearest Vietnamese Embassy orvia the more convenient method of applying online.The cost is approx USD$20. After submitting anapplication you will receive a confirmation number,then upon arriving to Vietnam you would receive theactual visa and additionally pay a stamping fee ofUSD$25.

Applying in advance and then collecting yourtourist visa upon arrival is available to alltravellers entering the country via Hanoi - Noi BaiInternational Airport, Ho Chi Minh City - Tan SonNhat International Airport and Danang InternationalAirport.

ON THE GO ARRANGING YOUR VIETNAM VISAUpon confirming a holiday to Vietnam with us,we will supply you with the visa application form.Should you complete the form and return it to us 5weeks prior to your departure we will arrange thevisa for you (effectively saving you USD$20).

Then approximately 3 - 4 weeks prior to yourdeparture we will forward you (with your final

holiday documentation) a letter which carries youvisa confirmation number.

You will need to present this document toimmigration officials upon arrival into Vietnam alongwith 2 passport photos and a stamp fee of USD$25. After completing a simple form the visa will bestamped and entry to the country gained.

Please note: the visa confirmation document(irrespective of whether you apply for yourvisa independently or through on the go) willcontain personal information such as your passportnumber, nationality and date of birth of yourself andother travellers on one inclusive list.

CAMBODIA VISA REQUIREMENTSBritish, Australian, Canadian, New Zealand, SouthAfrican and USA passport holders are able to obtaina 30 day tourist visa upon arrival to Cambodiawhen entering via Pochentong International Airportin Phnom Penh, Siem Reap International Airport(in the Angkor Wat Region) and at the Moc Bai(Vietnam) and Bavet (Cambodia) land border. Weuse the Moc Bai/Bavet land border crossing forall our group tours that travelling from Vietnam toCambodia.

At each of these entry points you must submit aphotocopy of your passport (identification page)and one passport size photograph. The cost of thevisa is currently USD20. Note: at the land bordersometimes immigration will ask for more. In thissituation point to the sign above the ticket windowindicating that the cost is actually USD20 (subjectto change). Further, you are best to give the exactamount i.e. USD20 as often if you give more youwill not receive change.

It is also possible to obtain a 30 day tourist visa priorto arrival via the Cambodian Embassy in your homeport, though please note tourist visas arranged withthe embassy are valid for one month from date ofissue, not date of arrival.

LAOS VISA REQUIREMENTSBritish, Australian, Canadian, New Zealand, SouthAfrican and USA passport holders are able toobtain a 30 day tourist visa upon arrival to Laosat major airports and border crossings includingWattay International Airport in Vientiane (the entrypoint for all our tours in Laos), Luang PrabangInternational Airport and at the Friendship Bridge ifcoming from Thailand.

At each of these entry points you must submit a visaapplication form and one passport size photograph.The cost of the visa for the above nationalities iscurrently ranges between USD30 - USD35. It isimportant that you have an entirely empty(stampfree) page in your passport and that your passportis valid for at least 6 months from your date ofarrival.

PLEASE NOTE: Visa requirements are subjectto change. Visa procurement is solely theresponsibility of the traveller and not of on the go.