12 Day Ho Chi Minh to Hanoi
From chaotic Ho Chi Minh City to charming Hoi An, the imperial capital of Hue, vibrant Hanoi and the stunning natural beauty of Halong Bay, this trip has something for everyone.
Journey up the coast in this jam-packed introduction to the country's highlights and nightlife with other travellers your own age—so you can be sure to get down with others that’ll keep up. Our CEOs will take you to the highlights on a shoestring and then let you loose so you can do what you really want.
- Halong Bay boat trip with lunch and guide
- Orientation walk around Hanoi's Old Quarter
- Two street food crawls
- All transport between destinations and to/from included activities
- 6 breakfasts, 1 lunch. (Allow USD225-300 for meals not included)
- Simple hotels (8 nts), sleeper trains (3 nts)
- Train, local bus, air-con bus, walking, boat
- Chief Experience Officer (CEO) throughout, local guides
- Small group experience; Max 16, avg 10
- Trip length:
- 12 Days
- Group size:
- Max 16
- Start:
- Ho Chi Minh
- End:
- Hanoi
- Vehicle:
- Train, bus, boat, foot
- Sleep:
- Train, Hotel, Homestay
Itinerary
Days 1-2 Ho Chi Minh City (1B)
Welcome to Ho Chi Minh City, the sprawling metropolis that once was the capital of South Vietnam and remains the country’s commercial center.
Today is arrival day so there are no activities planned. You are free to relax, explore the city & adjust to the frenetic pace and humid heat of Ho Chi Minh City. You will have a scheduled group meeting in the evening around 6pm. Please check at the reception desk or look for a G Adventures notice board with details of the actual meeting time. At this meeting your CEO will ask to sight your travel insurance, double check your Vietnam visa and complete some other paper work. Please note that most nationalities requires a visa to enter Vietnam, please double check this with your travel agent or local Vietnamese Embassy. After your meeting, you may choose to head out for an optional dinner to further get to know your CEO and fellow group members.
Day 2 is free for your to explore. You may choose to visit the Cu Chi Tunnels, a complex network of tunnels 90 minutes from the city where the locals lived during the American War to keep safe. Perhaps visit the the immense Ben Than Market and grab a snack at one of its many food stands. Those with an interest in Vietnam's recent history may like to visit the Reunification Palace, the residence of the presidents of South Vietnam before 1974, and the fascinating nearby War Remnants Museum. Also very interesting is Cholon, Saigon’s Chinese quarter. A cyclo can take you to any of these places for a very reasonable price and is a fun way to travel around Ho Chi Minh City.
On the evening of day 2, we take an overnight train to Nha Trang, the first of 3 sleeper trains you will take in Vietnam. The sleeper trains throughout Vietnam are quite comfortable. Each cabin sleeps 4 people in 2 bunk beds. You will be able to lock the door from the inside. All bedding is provided. The train is air conditioned and has squat and Western style toilets with a wash basin at the end of each compartment. Bags can be located in your cabin and accessed at anytime. Food and drinks are available for purchase on board. This is not to everyone’s taste so we recommend you bring your own.
Our Saigon hotel is located in front of the city’s main market, Ben Than Market, and very close to Saigon's backpackers street. All rooms are double or twin share with air conditioning and en suite bathroom. Wifi is available. A small swimming pool is also available on the second floor.
On the evening of day 2, we catch the overnight train to Nha Trang.
Approx travel time:Overnight sleeper train Ho Chi Minh City to Nha Trang: 10-11 hrs.
Days 3-4 Nha Trang (1B)
We arrive in Nha Trang in the morning with plenty of time for you to explore the local shops and markets, relax on the beach soaking up the sun or visit nearby historical sites. Optional activities in Nha Trang include a boat trip to nearby islands for snorkeling, or perhaps a fun filled all day beach party.
On the evening of day 4 we take the second of our overnight trains in Vietnam to Danang, where we will transfer to our final destination, Hoi An. The train is air conditioned and has squat and Western style toilets and wash basins at the end of each compartment. Your bags are located in your cabin and can be accessed at anytime.
Our hotel in Nha Trang is centrally located in town and everything is within walking distance. All rooms are double or twin share with air conditioning and en suite bathroom. Wifi is available.
Approx travel time:Transfer train station to hotel: 10 min each wayOvernight sleeper train Nha Trang to Danang: 9-10 hrs.
Days 5-6 Hoi An (1B)
From Danang, it is only short drive to the picturesque port town of Hoi An. Once known as Faifo, it was an important trading town with strong south Chinese influence and connections.
Take a self guided walking tour of this living museum whose main sights includes the Museum of History and Culture, the Tan Ky house, the Japanese bridge, the Fujian Assembly Hall and lunch at a riverside restaurant to sample some of the delicious local delicacies and fusion food at the restaurants for which Hoi An is becoming famous. This is a great place to sign up for a cooking class. You might consider heading off on an optional motorbike or bicycle tour to visit the beautiful countryside surrounding Hoi An.
Hoi An is a shopping mecca. Tailors can produce virtually any item of clothing you may wish for overnight at extremely reasonable prices, and silk lanterns, lacquer ware and many other crafts abound. It is also the centre of modern art in Vietnam. For sun worshipers, Cua Dai Beach is 4kms from town- a great flat bike ride away. Add in lots of fun bars into the mix and this really is a town that has it all and trust us, you’ll have trouble tearing yourself away!
Our hotel is located approximately ten minutes walk from Hoi An downtown. All hotel rooms are double or twin share with air conditioning and en suite bathroom. The hotel also has swimming pool.
Approx travel time:Transfer from train station in Danang to Hoi An: 45 min
Days 7-8 Hue (2B)
We continue our journey north to the city of Hue. We will make a stop about half way into our ride at the Hai Van Pass where you can enjoy spectacular views of the surrounding countryside.
When in Hue, options to explore include a visit to the former Royal Citadel which was modeled on the Forbidden City in Beijing or traveling by boat along the Perfume River. Don't miss a visit to the seven tiered Tien Mu Pagoda and try to fit in a visit to at least one of the tombs of the former rulers of Vietnam, located here in the quiet countryside, all of which are like self contained mini palaces. A true highlight of Hue is the surrounding countryside and cycling is a great way to get out and experience this while checking out the sights.
On the late afternoon of Day 8 we will travel by sleeper train from Hue to Hanoi.
Our hotel is centrally located in town and is very convenient to explore the city. All hotel rooms are double or twin share with air conditioning. The hotel has internet, with a computer available for passengers at the lobby.
Approx travel time:Private bus from Hoi An to Hue (Day 7): 4 hoursOvernight sleeper train Hue to Hanoi (Day 8): 14 hours
Day 9 Halong Bay/Bai Chai Harbour (1L)
We arrive in the early morning to bustling Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam. After meeting our local guide we transfer to a private bus and make our way to the beautiful and famous Halong Bay.
Thousands of islands rise dramatically from the waters of the Bay and, to further their beauty, intricate caves have been hollowed out through these limestone karst formations. Aboard a sailing junk we'll enjoy a seafood lunch and a visit to one of the islands and caves before transfering to the mainland for our overnight stay.
Our hotel is located on the Bay Chai beach front with great views of Halong Bay. Our hotel has internet in the lobby with one public computer being available and free wifi. All hotel rooms are double or twin share with air conditioning.
Approx travel time:Private bus Ha Noi to Halong Bay: 4 hours
Days 10-11 Hanoi (2B)
After breakfast, we'll transfer back to Hanoi. Upon arrival, explore Hanoi with an orientation walking tour through the city's old quarter. Each street is named after the trade practiced on that street for several generations; it's an interesting glimpse into the life of a Hanoian in one of the oldest parts of town.
Opt to visit the Tran Quoc Pagoda, the Temple of Literature (Van Mieu) or Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum and Museum. The Mausoleum houses the remains of Ho Chi Minh, the founding father of the unified Vietnam (closed October-November). Don’t miss taking a walk through Hanoi's Old Quarter – a maze of street, each one traditionally devoted to a different product or industry. Follow this up with a walk around nearby Hoan Kiem lake and see if you can spot one of the famous 100 year old turtles which may still live within its murky waters. In the evening you have an option to attend a performance at the famous Water Puppets and sample some of Hanoi's amazing eating venues. Ask your CEO to tell you about the local Northern delicacies.
Our hotel in Hanoi is located in the Old Quarter some 20 minutes walk to Hoan Kiem Lake, the centre of Hanoi. Make sure you grab the map and hotel card before you leave the hotel. All hotel rooms are double or twin share with air conditioning and en suite bathroom. Computers and wifi are available.
Approx Travel Time:Private bus Ha Long Bay to Ha Noi: 4 hours.
Day 12 Hanoi (1B)
You are free to depart at any time today; hotel check out time is 12pm. Please note that some of your group will most likely continue traveling through Laos with G Adventures.
We look forward to receiving your evaluation regarding this tour itinerary and your CEO's performance. We value your input into what we could improve to make this trip even better and of course love hearing about what we are already doing well! You will be sent a post tour email on your return with details on how to go on line and fill in this simple form. Thank you so much in advance.
What to bring
CLOTHING
- Comfortable walking shoes ( no flip flops! ). Sandles are OK. Bring hiking shoes for trips including trekking.
- Warm jacket and long pants. Night times temperatures can vary.
- Long Sleeve shirt for protection from the Sun and Mosquitoes
- Shorts and T Shirts for daytime hikes and walks
- Swimwear
- Hat and sunglasses
CREDITIALS
- Passport (with photocopies)
- Travel insurance (with photocopies)
- Airline tickets (with photocopies)
- Credit or debit card which work in overseas ATMs. It is a good idea to bring 2 ATM cards- perhaps one Mastercard and one Visa, just in case.
- Small amount of USD cash to change into local currency at times when ATMs may not be available
- Tour vouchers, pre-departure information and dossier
- Any entry visas, additional passport photos or vaccination certificates required
EQUIPMENT / OTHER
- Allow USD225-300 for meals not included
- First-aid kit (should contain lip salve, aspirin, band aids, anti-histamine, imodium or similar tablets for mild cases of diarrhea, re-hydration powder, extra prescription drugs you may be taking)
- Alarm clock
- Sunscreen
- Towel & toiletries
- Insect repellent
- Refillable water bottle
- Sleeping Bag
- Mp3 Player / iPod
- Rechargers
- Torch
- Camera
- Bincolars
- Medication ( if applicable )
What is included
TRANSPORT
- Boat
- Public and private bus
- Sleeper train
ACCOMMODATION
- Simple hotels (8 nts), sleeper trains (3 nts)
MEALS
- 6 breakfasts, 1 lunch
OTHER
-
Experienced and knowledgable tour guide
OPTIONAL EXTRAS
Bring along USD150 for optional activities not included in the trip.
Approximate costs (per person) for popular optional activities taken in free time are -
- Kayak Rental for 1 person (Halong Bay)- USD10
- Water Puppet Show (Hanoi) USD3
- Ho Chi Minh House on Stilts and Presidential Palace (Hanoi) USD1
- Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum (Hanoi)- free (Closed Oct-Nov)
- Hoa Lao Prison- aka ‘Hanoi Hilton’ (Hanoi)- USD1
- Museum of Ethnology (Hanoi)- USD1 plus transport
- Temple of Literature (Hanoi)- USD1
- Fine Arts Museum (Hanoi) - USD1
- Women's Museum (Hanoi) - USD1
- Army Museum (Hanoi)- USD1
- Taxi to each museum - approx USD2
- Bicycle Hire (Hue) - USD1
- Royal Citadel (Hue)- USD5
- Royal Tombs (Hue)- USD5
- Perfume River Boat (Hue)- USD5-10
- Cooking Class (Hoi An)- USD25 for Half Day
- My Son Cham Ruins including car transport (Hoi An) - USD24
- Tu Bon River Boat Trip (Hoi An)- USD5
- Day trip to Islands (Nha Trang)- USD15
- Visit to Mudbaths (Nha Trang)- USD3 plus transport
- Water Sports: parasaling, Jet Skiing (Nha Trang)- USD20-30
- Cu Chi Tunnels (Ho Chi Minh City)- USD8 plus transport USD5-10
- Cyclo tour (Ho Chi Minh City)- USD4
- War Crimes museum (Ho Chi Minh City)- USD1
- The Reunification Palace (Ho Chi Minh City) - USD2
- Saigon Water Park (Ho Chi Minh City) - USD4
All prices are per person (unless stated otherwise), and are subject to change as services are provided by third party operators.
Personal travel insurance is not included but visitors are advised to have it. This can be organised through your travel agent.
Trip Info
Preparing for the trip
What should I pack?
Once you’ve confirmed your booking, we send out trip-specific pre-departure information with a general packing list as well as a list of any other special items you may need to bring.
What immunisations do I need?
Immunisations vary from country to country and we strongly recommend you or contact the Travellers Medical and Vaccination Centre (www.traveldoctor.com.au) to discuss health requirements for your trip. They will advise you about appropriate inoculations. In some places anti-malaria medication may also be required. Some vaccines need to be administered a few weeks before departure, so allow plenty of time. It is also important that you obtain a certificate of vaccination and you must carry this with you on your trip. Please note that in some cases a certificate of vaccination is compulsory in order to obtain a visa.
Do I need to take any medical supplies?
We recommend you carry personal medical items for managing common minor ailments such as colds, diarrhoea, blisters and sore throats etc. Travellers who take regular medication should take an appropriate supply. Asthma sufferers should ensure that they have an adequate supply of their routine medicine, as some major cities have high levels of smog.
How much luggage do I need to take?
As a general rule, the less luggage you bring with you, the better. You’ll probably be buying souvenirs and the like along the way, so leave some space! There will be times when you will be carrying your luggage on and off public transport, so you should consider travelling with a backpack or a soft duffel bag. Suitcases aren’t suitable for these types of holidays. Each airline has specific rules as to luggage allowances, so check directly with them or ask your travel consultant to confirm for you.
Do I need a sleeping bag?
Sometimes. This varies depending on which trip you are booking on, and we will let you know in the info pack that we send to you on confirmation of your booking.
How do I get a visa?
Please note that visas for Thailand, Vietnam and Cambodia are the responsibility of the individual traveller. The Visa requirements for your trip vary depending on where you are from and where you are going. For the most up to date information please check your governments foreign ministry website or with your travel agent as rules do change. It is important that you check for yourself. For most travellers there will probably be an embassy and consulate in the country that you live in. *Please have extra USD on hand in case the customs officials charge more at the border crossing.Please be aware that you will require two clean pages (minimum) in your passport and at least six months validity.
Do I need travel insurance?
It is compulsory that you have comprehensive travel insurance. Domestic government medical insurance and private health schemes will not cover you in most overseas countries. Your policy MUST cover medical costs in case of hospitalisation, emergency travel and repatriation. Once you have paid your deposit or full payment, certain fees will apply if you cancel your holiday. Insurance should therefore be organised at the time of booking to protect yourself against unforeseen circumstances that would require you to cancel before travelling. Your tour guide will need two copies of your policy - the Tour Guide and our Ground Operator will keep one copy each in the unlikely event of an emergency. The copies must show the policy number and the emergency hotline phone number.
Does the tour price included international flights?
The prices quoted on the site do not include international flights.
Where does the tour start?
Tours will always start in a specified hotel and we will let you know exactly when you need to be at that hotel. We can organise airport transfers, if you wish.
Can I book accommodation at the start and/or end of the tour?
Yes. In all cases, we can organise extra accommodation for the start and end of the tour. Just let us know and we’ll organise a quote for you.
What form of transport do we use around the Himalayas and Nepal?
As a general rule, we travel on local transport, mixing with the locals and getting involved. In some places, the best way to explore is on foot, in others we’ll jump on boats, bemos, canoes, camels, tuk-tuks, songthaews… you get the picture. The style of transport will be as varied as it is fun…. we don’t like sealing you up in a 50-seater coach. Sometimes, however, local transport is not practical – you just can’t jump on a No. 96 bus in northern Thailand – so in these instances, we hire our own vehicles.
Where do we meet in Ho Chi Minh?
Joining Hotel
Hoang Ngan Hotel 29-31 Bui Thi Xuan StBen Thanh Ward, Dist 1Ho Chi Minh CityVietnam+848 39251880 or 39251879
Please note that we have several departures on the same days and some of them might start on Elegant Hotel, please check your vouchers :
Elegant Hotel122F Bui Thi Xuan streetDist 1, HCMCTel: + 84 8 392 58866
Joining Instructions
When arriving at Tan Son Nhat Intl Airport in Saigon you can get a metered taxi from just outside of the arrival hall. The taxis are lined up outside in an orderly queue and the fare is roughly 100,000 Dong (approx 7 USD) to get to your starting point hotel. DO NOT GO WITH TAXI TOUTS. The airport is only 7km from the downtown District 1 so taking taxis is easy and cheap if the meter is on.
Unfortunately there have been cases in Vietnam of people misrepresenting themselves as tour representatives at both Ha Noi and Ho Chi Minh airports.We recommend that you do not take advantage of any offers of "help" at the airport, and rather just organise a meter taxi for yourself to our Starting Point Hotel.
If you have a pre-booked transfer, please look for the representative, who will be holding a G Adventures sign at the arrival halls. Please check carefully once you exit the baggage hall as there seem to be hundreds of people waiting outside in the arrival area.
Please check that your driver knows your name and the hotel you are going to. If in doubt ask them to ring their manager to confirm your transfer.
If you are unable to locate our G Adventures representative, please wait up to 30 minutes, call our local staff on our emergency number, or take a taxi to the joining point hotel.
Private tours and families
Can I organise a private tour?
Of course! If there’s a minimum of two people, pick an existing itinerary and contact us and we can arrange the trip as a private tour. Or if you’re after something a bit different, if you have a minimum of four people for a trip, contact us and we can put together a tailored and personally designed itinerary for you
Booking the trip
Do I need to book online?
No. Whilst this site is designed to make booking as easy as possible, we appreciate that sometimes it’s nice to talk to a human being, so give us a call! We can do the whole booking procedure over the phone.
How do I know if the tour is available?
To see the scheduled departure dates just click the “Check Dates” button on the top right of the page. To ensure the scheduled departure is going ahead send us an email to info@worldlypeople.org and we get back to you within a couple of hours.
How far in advance do I need to book?
There is no guarantee as to when other people will book and hence when the tour will fill up. Our advice is that as soon as you know which one you want to book, don’t delay - put your name down as soon as possible, that way you won’t be disappointed.However, we can usually take bookings for most of our tours right up until the departure date if there are spaces left, so have a look at the availability, and if there’s still space we’ll gladly take your booking
When is final payment on tours due ( for deposit payments )
The final payment is due in full 56 days before the departure of your trip. If you’ve booked your trip within 56 days of the departure date, full payment is needed.
Who travels with us
How fit do I need to be?
Our holidays are fun and can be enjoyed by anyone who is reasonably fit. However, some trips visit remote areas where medical facilities are very limited or non-existent, so you must be in good health. Some trips may include a trekking element, so some pre-trek preparation will be an advantage. There are some other factors to consider: bumpy roads, dust, traffic, delays and unfamiliar customs and cultures may all create additional demands. You will also have to carry your own bags so bear that in mind when deciding if you really need that other pair of shoes.
Is this trip for me?
These trips appeal to people who want the fun, freedom and flexibility of independent travel, but want to make the most of their time and prefer that someone else takes care of the hassles and organisation – queuing for tickets and looking for a hotel at night can be a real drag! These trips are also for people who want to get a deeper understanding of the region they visit - our innovative itineraries and exceptional team leaders make this happen. Or perhaps you are a single traveller and like the safety and companionship of travelling with a few others, sharing the experiences and adventures together.
The majority of travellers are in their 20s and 30s, but if you’re on the ‘other side’ of 40, then that’s great too! Please bear in mind that these trips are designed for travellers and our trips are go, go, go! Essential on your list of things to pack are an open mind, sense of adventure and an easygoing attitude. On these trips you don’t pay for unnecessary extras – that’s why the prices are so good. We include many of the must see sights, but keep plenty of free time aside so you can go on your own way and make your own discoveries. Your lodging will be basic, but clean and comfortable, locally run, and usually reflecting the character of the region. Aside from being a more interesting place to stay than a bland internationally-run hotel, this also helps to keep the cost down. You might spend a night or two in a ‘home stay’, lodge or hacienda - these could be fairly basic, but certainly a real highlight, offering a chance to immerse yourself in the local culture. Many of the tours have several long travelling days, often on local transport, and sometimes on rough roads. The trips are packed with highlights and the pace is fast, so we can see as much as possible - although there’s always time to chill out, enjoy a cold drink and watch the world go by if that’s what you feel like doing.
Is this a typical group tour?
Most travellers consider themselves independent travellers, rather than typical group travellers. This is just as well because these tours are a long way from your typical group tour - freedom and flexibility are fundamental! There are usually around 8 people on a trip (the maximum is 14), and you’ll find that the excellent tour prices offer a real alternative to backpacking. Our travellers want to explore places at a grassroots level, and have a great time while they do this.
Im a single travellers, is that OK?
Most of our travellers are ‘flying solo’ and like the thought of travelling with like-minded souls. Your tour will have a strong social element and you'll almost certainly come home with some new friends. Some of the tours offer single supplement option. You can see these prices under the “Join Tour” drop down menu.
Who will I travel with?
Every group is different, however you'll generally travel with a mix of nationalities from all over the world.
How large are the groups?
The maximum group size is 13 passengers per vehicle or tour guide, with the average being 9.
Cost and Fees
What's included in the tour price?
Please refer to the “what’s included” section on your tour page for the most up to date information.
Will I need additional money?
Visitors are advised to bring some cash as ATMs and banks can be few and far between depending on where we are during the trip. It’s handy to have some extra cash as we do stop by local shops and cafe.
What is a "Trip Kitty"?
The trip kitty is to be paid in cash (in the currency indicated) at the start of your trip. Give it directly to your local leader, who can then pay for items locally throughout your trip, eg. meals. Having a trip kitty also helps us to pass savings onto you.
Can I pay the local payment in local currency?
The local payment needs to be paid in the currency indicated in the itinerary and final invoice. Most tours will have this included in the tour price. Please check the included section above.
How much spending money do I need?
Not a lot! Your accommodation, transport, local leader and some meals are included. Depending on where you are, you'll generally get by on about US$25 a day, covering meals, drinks and souvenirs.
What is the best way to take money with me?
A combination of cash, an ATM card and perhaps a credit card as back-up is good. Travellers cheques are a safe way to carry money, however travellers can find it difficult in some areas to exchange them.
As a general rule, American dollars are accepted throughout the world, but make sure you have small denomination bills, and that they are not ripped or marked, as this may affect your ability to change them. And remember to check with your bank about using your bank cards overseas.
Do I need to tip the local guide?
Your tour guide works hard to ensure you have a great trip, so please don’t hold back if you feel they have earned a tip for their efforts. If you would like to reward your tour guide for his or her services, you can choose to do so individually or make a group presentation at the end of the tour.
Whilst on tour
Can I wash my laundry?
Many of the places we stay have laundry facilities nearby, especially within cities. It is also a good idea to bring some ‘travel wash’, and a travel clothes line, to wash the necessities. This will help you cut down on packing space, and hence the amount you have to lug around with you!
Can I get on the internet whilst on tour?
Internet cafés are plentiful throughout much of the world, particularly in major cities – an internet email address and a webcam/phone account (such as skype) are good ways of staying in touch.
Will my mobile phone work?
Do you really want to take your phone with you? One of the biggest pleasures about getting away is leaving telephones and computers behind! However, if you really do want to take your phone with you, there is a good chance that it will work in most major cities. Check with your service provider before you go if they have a reciprocal agreement with the countries you are travelling to, and make sure you remember to get international roaming turned on.
Can I do a section of the tour and not the whole trip?
Unfortunately it is not possible to just do sections of the tour. Some of the longer tours are made up of smaller tours completed back-to-back, and hence might be possible to book separately. It may be possible to arrange a private charter for you from a section of the tour so please contact us.
Do I need to be able to swim?
Several of our holidays include travel by boat, ship or canoe. It is assumed by us that you can swim, unless you advise us otherwise. If you cannot swim, you must let us know, so we can let your tour leader know. However, swimming is by no means compulsory at any stage in our trips.
Can I bring gifts for people?
If you want to give something to the local people please bring something useful like pens or school books, not lollies. The other thing we insist upon is that gifts are distributed in an organised and responsible manner - either through the headmaster of a school or ask your tour leader what the most beneficial approach is. Some children, and even adults, may ask for things on the street, in villages, etc, and although giving a ‘present’ may give both of you a brief moment of joy, handing things out like this only encourages begging and is destructive in the long term.
How much free time is there?
It is an integral part of all our trips to give you enough free time to explore by yourself. Many of your most memorable experiences will occur when you branch out and do your own thing. We understand that different people have different interests, so we build in free time to make your own discoveries. The framework is in place and the details are taken care of, but on many days, you decide what you want to see and do. After all, you might be thoroughly sick and tired of temples, while another group member just can’t get enough of them. It’s your holiday, so it’s your choice.
Will there be time to explore the cities we start and finish in? Or should I arrange extra time?
With all of our tours, we strongly believe we have well balanced itineraries to enable you to explore all the places you are visiting. There is generally no need to arrive early or leave later. However, there is always more to discover and we can arrange additional accommodation, should you need it.
What standard of accommodation should I expect?
Your lodging will be basic, but clean and comfortable, locally run, and usually reflecting the character of the region. Aside from being a more interesting place to stay than a bland internationally-run hotel, this also helps to keep the cost down and by supporting local businesses you help the local economy. You might also spend a night or two in a ‘home stay’, lodge or hacienda - these could be fairly basic, but will almost certainly end up being one of the highlights, offering a chance to really immerse yourself in the local culture.
What will the food be like?
Experiencing the local flavours is definitely a highlight on our trips. Our local tour guides take you to out of the way places and experience the best and most interesting cuisine of the cultures you visit. The guides’ local knowledge will mean you can decipher menus, get useful tips on what to try, and visit all the most interesting restaurants and markets. There will always be a very strong local influence in the food, which we believe is what travel is all about.
What about if I am a vegetarian? Or if I have a special diet?
No problem at all! The only important thing is that you let us know in advance, so we can inform our local tour guides. That way, they can look out for you and make sure you are looked after in the local restaurants. It is important to realise that in some places your diet might be slightly limited, as meat can form an integral part of the local diet. If in doubt, ask our consultants for their first-hand knowledge of each individual destination.
Are there any long travelling days?
Many of the tours have several long travelling days, often on local transport, and sometimes on rough roads. The trips are packed with highlights and the pace is fast, so we can see as much as possible. Although there’s always time to chill out, enjoy a cold drink and watch the world go by if that’s what you feel like doing. The trip notes for each trip will give you a strong indication of the travelling times for each day.
What will the weather be like?
Check our weather widget on the right side of the page for up to date information on the weather conditions. Otherwise, send us an email and we will let you know how things are at the moment!
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