Welcome to OUT Adventures
Gay owned OUT Adventures and Intrepid Travel have partnered together to provide a comfortable travel environment for not only for gay and lesbian travellers,
but also their friends and family who want to experience the world at the grassroots level with like-minded people. Go on, Get OUT and experience the real world.
With great food, lush scenery and lots of warm, friendly locals, the whole family will fall in love with Vietnam. Sail beautiful Halong Bay, laugh at water puppets in Hanoi, learn about rich emperors in Hue, get a new outfit tailor-made in Hoi An and swim in the South China Sea. Adventure through the countryside, discover the culture and experience a different way of life, as a family.
Our OUT Family Adventures are designed specifically for the spirited family. We keep in mind, however, that travelling with kids sometimes requires a slightly different perspective. We travel at a slower speed - recognising that showing your family around our exotic destinations can take time and allowing you to enjoy a relaxed pace while still offering plenty of optional activities.
We try, where possible, to ensure you have at least two nights in the same destination so you are not constantly having to unpack those bags. Hotels are chosen carefully to provide your family with small comforts to make your stay more enjoyable - such as restaurants nearby or accommodation with pools.
Travel times are limited so that you are not on local transport for more than seven hours or travelling too long after dark - we know that a journey with kids can be great fun, especially when they are having a good time!
Style
Trip Map
Itinerary
Culture Shock Rating
Physical Rating
Gay Rating
Physical Preparation
Included Activities
Optional Activities
Spending Money
Local Payment
Important Notes
Group Size
Accommodation
Non-traditional families deserve non-traditional family vacations. That's why our Family Adventures give your kids just as much of a chance to discover the world as you. Show your children exotic lands and new cultures - all in a safe, non-judgemental holiday. And don't worry parents. It's not only about the kids, there's still plenty of activities for you to enjoy too! But, this is NOT a baby-sitting service. Far from it, these trips are an exciting and stimulating way to spend time together with your family.
Xin chào! Welcome to Vietnam.
Please note that airport transfers on arrival are included, so please advise us of your flight details at the time of booking and there will be a representative to meet you at the airport and transfer you to our hotel.
Your fellow travellers will be arriving from all around the world today, so there are no arranged activities. However, there will be a pre-trip meeting in the early evening where your group leader will collect your local payment (US$300 cash per person). Please bring US$ in large denominations; unfortunately, coins are not accepted. The meeting will be followed by an optional group dinner.
Look for a welcome note at reception in the joining-point hotel explaining when and where this important meeting will take place. For those who arrive early, there is sightseeing information on the Intrepid noticeboard at reception. Note that the hotel check-in time is 12.00 noon.
On day two, we enjoy a buffet breakfast at KOTO restaurant, which is one of our Responsible Travel supported programs, which aims to teach street children hospitality skills that will enable them to find employment. The rest of the day is free to explore at your leisure. You might like to explore the atmospheric Temple of Literature or the Ho Chi Minh Complex nearby. In the evening, enjoy a cyclo tour of the Old Quarter and make a visit to the famous water puppet theatre.
In Hanoi, our fully equipped hotel is centrally located near the historic Temple of Literature and has ensuite bathrooms, air conditioning and a bar.
On the morning of day 3, we drive to the World Heritage site of Halong Bay (approx. 4 hours), where we board our private boat and cruise among some of the 2,000 dramatic limestone peaks.
There is an opportunity to swim in the famed South China Sea as well as to explore caves filled with stunning stalactites and stalagmites. We spend a peaceful night on board, beneath a velvet night sky alive with stars.
Our overnight accommodation on Halong Bay is on a sailing junk with twin bed cabins that have air-conditioning and private facilities. There is also a dining room and bar where we enjoy a sumptuous lunch and dinner.
Day 4 sees us enjoying breakfast on our boat before returning to Hanoi where we board an overnight train headed south. We depart in the evening on our soft sleeper class train. Compartments are clean, with padded berths (four to a room), sheets, pillows, blankets and boiling water are all available. Most trains have a dining carriage and there are snacks available on the train along the way.
We arrive early into Hue, another World Heritage site. The pace of life is slow and tranquility prevails in this former imperial capital of Vietnam. We'll visit the Imperial Citadel, one of the Nguyen emperors' tombs, the famed Thien Mu Pagoda and also enjoy a dragon boat cruise on the Perfume River.
With two full days here, there is ample time to explore the city's many Buddhist pagodas, outlying handicraft villages and the busy Dong Ba Market. Enjoying an ice-cream or a coffee at one of the riverside coffee shops at sunset is also an experience not to be missed.
In Hue, our hotel is located in a quiet part of town, and has ensuite bathrooms, air conditioning and a pool.
Travelling by bus, we leave Hue and head south through coastal rice paddies to the fishing village of Lang Co, before traversing the spectacularly mountainous Hai Van Pass.
After an optional photo stop at beautiful China Beach, and at the alluring Marble Mountains, we arrive at the river port of Hoi An (approx. 4 hours). Take to the streets for an introductory tour of this ancient town that was recently declared a UNESCO World Heritage site, Hoi An and witness how its being beautifully restored and preserved. We have a full free day here to check out the charming architecture. On day 9, you can head out to visit a school or an orphanage for some interaction with local kids.
Hoi An is a shopping Mecca - with much to browse and buy. Choose from original paintings, handcrafted woodwork, ceramics, embroidery, lanterns and more. Hoi An has also become famous for its tailoring - with a great variety of fabrics to choose from. Bring your favourite piece of clothing or even just a picture, and you'll be able to have it copied. You can also hire bicycles to explore the surrounding areas, charter a small boat and take to the sea, or head to the beach - a popular sunrise destination.
Our accommodation in Hoi An is located near to the bustling local market and has private facilities, air conditioning, restaurant, bar and a pool.
We travel the short distance to Danang and board our flight to the beachside city of Nha Trang.
A highlight for most OUT travellers is the full-day boat cruise we take over the turquoise waters here, complete with seafood lunch. We also stop at Hon Mieu Island to explore the outdoor aquarium, built in the shape of a ship. In the afternoon, we laze about on our own private beach before returning to Nha Trang. For those who rise early, morning exercise on the beachfront is an experience not to be missed. For foodies, there's plenty to fill up on because this resort town boasts many restaurants featuring all kinds of cuisine.
For our three nights in Nha Trang we stay in a centrally located 2 star hotel which has comfortable twin and double rooms, air conditioning, restaurant, bar and two swimming pools.
A short flight brings us to the economic hub of Ho Chi Minh City. Formerly known as Saigon, this busy city is a charming blend of old and new, East and West.
In the afternoon, we head off to nearby Ben Thanh Market to experience a local lunch, market-style! With your belly full, why not head off afterwards to explore the city on your own? Your leader will have plenty of interesting and fun ideas. Perhaps you might consider scooting off on cyclos to Cholon, the Chinatown area of Ho Chi Minh City for a spot of temple-hopping? Or perhaps you'd like to visit the Vietnamese version of a department store for some serious shopping - the choice is yours!
On day 14 we visit the Dam Sen Water Park, which is a great spot to escape the city heat, cool off, relax and watch the kids have fun.
Our final nights in Ho Chi Minh City are spent in a new hotel conveniently located near the Ben Thanh Market.
There are no activities planned for day 15 and you are able to depart the hotel at any time. Check out time from the hotel is at 12 noon. If you are departing later, you can arrange luggage storage at the hotel.
The itinerary attached is correct at time of printing. Please note: occasionally our itineraries are updated during the year to incorporate improvements stemming from past travelers' comments and our own research. Our brochure is usually released in November each year. As such the information given in this itinerary may be slightly different to that in the brochure. It is VERY IMPORTANT that you print and review a final copy of your Trip Notes a couple of days prior to travel, in case there have been changes that affect your plans. For the latest updated Trip Notes please visit our website: www.out-adventures.com
The trip includes a range of accommodation, such as basic hotels with western facilities or overnight trains. Days of being on the move are well interspersed, communication with the outside world is ever-present and a wide variety of food is commonly available.
You are required to carry your pack on and off trains and buses, up hotel steps, etc. Your itinerary may include easy paced walks or bike rides, but these are on mainly flat ground.
This trip travels to a relatively conservative area. We encourage you to experience the destination and culture with the following in mind:
Accommodation - We do not foresee any problems, however there may be occasions when a same sex couple may be asked to sleep in single beds rather than sharing a double. We appreciate your cooperation.
Public Display of affection - These are frowned upon in this region among all travellers, not just those on an OUT Adventure. This includes holding hands in public.
Gay Activities - This trip may not have specific gay hosted events, meals or day tours due to the cultural sensitivity of this region. We will do our best to provide a safe, comfortable environment for you and your fellow travellers to experience this culture.
Please read the important notes & local dress section of the Trip Notes for more detailed information
This is a list of included activities on this trip. All other activities are optional and at your own expense.
For a list of optional activities and sightseeing available on this trip, see the optional activities section below.
If you choose not to participate in the included activities on this itinerary, the cost will not be refunded.
While these are all included activities, of course you have the choice to pass on any one of them if you need time with the family, or if you want to just relax. Our itinerary is flexible so you can do as much or as little as you like. Our included activities are selected because they capture the imaginations of our younger travellers and still interest the older ones.
Arrival airport transfer
Breakfast at KOTO's - Hanoi
Cyclo tour through Old Quarter - Hanoi
Water puppets in Hanoi - Hanoi
Boat cruise and meals on board - Halong Bay
Perfume River boat trip - Hue
Entrance to Imperial Citadel and Royal Tomb - Hue
Thien Mu Pagoda – Hue
Entrance to Ancient Town and orientation walk - Hoi An
Flight from Danang to Nha Trang
Boat trip including lunch and entrance to aquarium - Nha Trang
Flight from Nha Trang to Ho Chi Minh City
Market lunch - Ho Chi Minh City
Entrance to Dam Sen water park - Ho Chi Minh City
All optional activities are entirely your choice and are not included in price of this trip. The following is not an exhaustive list and should be used as a guide only.
Fine Arts Museum, Hanoi – US$1
Women's Museum, Hanoi – US$1
Army Museum, Hanoi – US$1
Temple of Literature, Hanoi – US$1
Hoa Lo “Hanoi Hilton” Prison, Hanoi – US$1
Museum of Ethnology, Hanoi – US$1
Ho Chi Minh Complex, Hanoi – US$2
Taxi to each museum, Hanoi – approx US$3
Bicycle hire, Hue – US$1
Bicycle hire, Hoi An – US$2
My Son Cham Ruins including car transport, Hoi An – US$24
Thu Bon River Boat Trip, Hoi An – US$5
Mud Baths, including taxi, Nha Trang – from US$14
Bao Dai's Villa, including taxi, Nha Trang – from US$6
Reunification Palace, Ho Chi Minh City – US$2
War Remnants Museum, Ho Chi Minh City – US$1
Cyclo tour, Ho Chi Minh City – US$4
Every traveler is different and therefore spending money requirements will vary. Some travelers may drink more than others while other travelers like to purchase more souvenirs than most. Please consider your own spending habits when it comes to allowing for drinks, shopping, participating in optional activities and tipping. Please also remember the following specific recommendations when planning your trip.
A local payment amount of USD $300 will be collected by your leader on day 1.
Most of our trips require a compulsory local payment, which is part of the contract with you
(the customer) and Intrepid Travel Pty Ltd. This amount is the final payment for your trip
and is to be paid in the specified currency, in cash to your leader upon arrival.
The local payment is non-refundable, and is considered part of the total trip payment.
Further details and information on your local payment are shown in our brochures and on our website at
http://www.intrepidtravel.com/ourtrips/faq/#localpmt
While we operate successful trips in Vietnam throughout the year, some changes may occur in our itineraries due to inclement weather and common seasonal changes to timetables. During the rainy months (approximately June to October), transportation mode can be changed at short notice due to weather conditions.
TET is Vietnam's New Year festival, held annually generally in late January or early February; please see Country Information - Vietnam for the exact dates. You should expect shop closures and extremely busy transport. Some tourist sites are also closed. Although we make bookings far in advance, transport and accommodation providers tend to overbook their services at this time so a flexible approach from travellers is needed. Our itinerary, transport and visited sites may change in response to TET festivities.
OUT family adventures are designed for families only (ie at least one parent or legal guardian and at least one child.) The minimum age for children is 6 years old. All adults and/or guardians are fully responsible for their children throughout the duration of the trip. We allow a maximum of 2 children per adult and a maximum of 2 adults per child.
Please note that on occasions the flight between Danang to Nha Trang on day 10 may be covered by a day train rather than a flight.
Maximum of 14 travellers per group
Hotels (12 nts), overnight train (1 nt), overnight boat (1 nt)
The style of accommodation described in the day to day itinerary is a guideline. On rare occasions, alternative arrangements may need to be made due to the lack of availability of rooms in our usual accommodation. A similar standard of accommodation will be used in these instances.
Accommodation on this trip is on a twin/multi share basis. Please note there may be times when you share a room with passengers travelling on different Intrepid trips than your own.
Throughout the trip we request that our hotels prepare rooms in time for our arrival, especially if we are arriving prior to normal check in time. However this is not always possible which means we will not be able to check-in immediately on arrival at some hotels. Instead, we can store our luggage and explore our new destination.
If you have purchased pre or post trip accommodation (if available), you may be required to change rooms from your trip accommodation for these extra nights.
For families on trips we make use of triple and quad rooms (where available and required). Please note that on occasions additional beds may be fold-away beds or portable beds.
If there is a family of 3 with 2 adults with 1 child, it may not be possible to use triple rooms. In these cases, one of the adults will share with the child and the other adult will share with another adult passenger in your group. If there are 2 adults travelling with 2 children, for safety and security reasons 1 adult will share with 1 child at all destinations on this trip.
Soft sleeper class overnight trains have compartments with padded berths (four to a room), sheets, pillows, blankets and boiling water are all available. Most trains have a dining carriage and there are snacks available on the train along the way.
While travelling with us you will experience the vast array of wonderful food available in the world. Your group leader will be able to suggest favourite restaurants during your trip. On our camping trips we often cook the region's specialties so you don't miss out. To give you the maximum flexibility in deciding where, what and with whom to eat generally not all meals are included in the trip price. This also gives you more budgeting flexibility. As a rule our groups tend to eat together to enable you to taste a larger variety of dishes and enjoy each other's company. There is no obligation to do this though. Please check the 'meal inclusions' section of these notes for details of meals included.
Allow USD $250 for meals not included.
14 Breakfasts, 3 Lunches, 1 Dinner
Plane, overnight train, train, minibus, boat, cyclo
All OUT group trips are accompanied by one of our gay or gay friendly group leaders. The aim of the group leader is to take the hassle out of your travels and to help you have the best trip possible. We endeavor to provide the services of an experienced leader however, due to the seasonality of travel, rare situations may arise where your leader is new to a particular region or training other group leaders.
Your leader will provide information on the places you are traveling through, offer suggestions for things to do and see, recommend great local eating venues and introduce you to our local friends. While not being guides in the traditional sense you can expect them to have a broad general knowledge of the places visited on the trip, including historical, cultural, religious and social aspects. OUT leaders aim to support local guides who have specialized knowledge of the regions we visit - and who better to hear it from than the locals themselves? If you were interested in delving deeper into the local culture at a specific site or location then your leader can recommend a local guide service in most of the main destinations of your trip.
If you are happy with the level of service provided by your group leader, we recommend that you reward them with a $2 to $4 USD tip per day.
Our leaders are not baby-sitters on this trip - we leave that to you (the experts), but they will make sure that group members of all ages are able to explore their destination safely and with as much fun as possible. Our group leaders are not responsible for looking after children at any time and children must be accompanied by a parent or guardian at all times throughout this itinerary.
Holidays Hotel
27 Quoc Tu Giam
Hanoi
Vietnam
Phone: +84 4 3747 4106
Fax: +84 4 3747 4338
An arrival airport to hotel transfer is included - transfers must be arranged in advance so please forward us the flight numbers and times at least 14 days prior to departure.
If you have pre-booked an airport transfer your driver will be waiting for you as you get out of the customs hall. The driver will be holding an OUT/Intrepid sign bearing your name. You can ring +84 903 117 770 if you couldn’t find your pre-booked transfer. Post offices are available from both ends of the airport at the arrival terminal.
Please note if you are organising your own pre/post tour arrangements then arrival/departure transfers are not complimentary. OUT will only provide one complimentary arrival/departure transfer even if clients are arriving/departing at different times.
Metered taxi ranks are available out side the airport entrance. Go out of the customs hall and walk outside the airport where there is a table with a sign saying "metered taxis". There are two of them, Noi Bai taxi and Viet Thanh taxi. Both of them cost the same, USD12 (VND180,000) set price for a drive to your hotels in city center. The hotel that we use is easy to find and well known to most taxi drivers.
The Holiday Hotel is situated in the heart of Hanoi near the historic Temple of Literature, Hanoi Train station and within walking distance to the "Old Quarter". Our hotel is also surrounded by many local cafes, restaurants, markets and street stalls. Rooms are comfortable and have wireless internet, air-conditioning, IDD phones, mini-bars, satellite TV & private bathrooms.
We don't expect any problems (and nor should you!) but if for any reason you are unable to commence your group trip as scheduled, please contact your starting point hotel, requesting that you speak to or leave a message for your trip leader.
If you have pre-booked an airport transfer (where available) and have not made contact with our representative within 30 minutes of clearing customs and immigration, we recommend that you make your own way to the Starting Point hotel, following the Joining Instructions in the Trip Notes. Should this occur, please apply to your travel agent for a refund of the transfer cost on your return.
No refund is available on missed transfers or portions of your trip owing to a different flight arrival or delayed flight arrival. Any additional cost incurred in order to meet up with your group is at your own expense.
Hoang Gia Huy
48-50 Nguyen An Ninh St
District 1, Ben Thanh Ward
Ho Chi Minh City
Vietnam
Phone: +84 8 3822 5876/3822 5895
Fax: +84 8 3822 5884
The Hoang Gia Guy Hotel is a small tourist class hotel with friendly, helpful staff. It's located in the middle of District 1 and is only a few minutes walk from the excellent shopping at Ben Thanh Market. All rooms have air-conditioning and private facilities.
A departure transfer from our hotel to the airport is available if arranged at the time of booking. Transfers cannot be arranged during the trip. Please advise your flight arrival details at least 14 days prior to your trips start date. If you plan to stay longer, this departure transfer can only be offered in conjunction with post-tour accommodation booked through Intrepid.
A metered taxi from the hotel to the airport should cost about US$7 (VND 120,000) and should take around 30 minutes (depending on traffic).
If you have booked a post trip airport transfer, please ask your leader to confirm with our local operator the time of departure and meeting place. If you have any problems please call our hotline at +84 903 117 770.
Check-out time from the hotel is 12 noon. If you are departing later, you can arrange luggage storage at the hotel.
In the case of a genuine crisis or emergency, Intrepid's Melbourne Office can be reached on Tel: +61 3 9473 2650. For further contact details please use the following page: http://www.intrepidtravel.com/ourtrips/contact/.
Please also make sure you have access to an additional USD$400, to be used when unforeseen incidents or circumstances outside our control (eg. a natural disaster, civil unrest or an outbreak of bird flu) necessitate a change to our planned route.
Please note that visas are the responsibility of the individual traveler. The visa requirements for your trip vary depending on where you are from and where you are going. We keep the following information up to date as much as possible, but rules do change.
It is important that you check for yourself.
Make sure your passport is valid for at least 6 months after your return date. Be sure to check the date you require a visa from and the length of time you will need to cover, especially if you change countries during your trip.
Vietnam: Please refer to your relevant country visa information for up to date information about your visa requirements in Vietnam as there are many countries who may be exempt from requiring a visa if their stay is up to 15 days. If you are of one of these nationalities, and staying in Vietnam for more than 15 days, you will be required to obtain a tourist visa extension in advance. In all other instances, please obtain a visa before arriving on the tour. You should allow 3 weeks for processing. The cost is US$60 to $100. When writing the anticipated entry date, please write the date 2 DAYS PRIOR to your trip's arrival in Vietnam (remember to calculate which date your trip will arrive in Vietnam if travelling on an overland itinerary, that is, it may not be on day one). This will allow for any changes to the itinerary due to unforeseen circumstances. Remember to keep the customs and immigration form you receive on arrival, as you need it to complete exit formalities on departure.
If your visa application asks for a point of contact, please write: Intrepid Indochina, 57A Nguyen Khac Hieu St., Hanoi, Vietnam Ph +84 4 3715 0996.
Laundry facilities are offered by some of our hotels for a charge. In addition, laundry services can be found outside our hotel in all major cities. There may be times when you may want to or have to do your own laundry so we suggest you bring non polluting/biodegradable soap.
What you need to bring will vary according to the trip style you have chosen, the countries you are visiting and when you are travelling. Generally speaking you should pack as lightly as possible. On the vast majority of our trips you are expected to carry your own luggage and although you will not be required to walk long distances with your luggage (max 30 minutes) we recommend keeping the weight under 10kg/22lb.
Most travellers carry their luggage in a backpack, although an overnight bag with a shoulder strap would suffice if you travel lightly. Smaller bags or backpacks with wheels are convenient although we recommend your bag has carry straps. You will also need a day pack/bag to carry water and a camera etc for daytrips.
The sale of bottled water contributes to an enormous environmental problem around the world. In addition to the water in bottles, the production of a 1 litre plastic bottle takes 2 litres of water and 200ml of oil. A large proportion end up in limited landfill or discarded in waterways and natural environments. Please avoid the purchase of bottled water by bringing and using a water purification method. Some of the options are:
Water purification tablets available from camping stores or pharmacies eg. Micropur.
2% tincture of iodine available from pharmacies - used at 4 drops per litre of water and left for at least 20 minutes. Longer in very cold weather.
OUT is collecting old spectacles (prescription or sunglasses) and hearing aids for three charities in Cambodia and Vietnam. They are reconfigured and fitted for disadvantaged Cambodian and Vietnamese people by professional ophthalmologists and audiologists. If you can help, please give them to your leader at the start of your trip.
When packing be aware that dress standards are conservative throughout Asia, especially outside major cities. To respect this and for your own comfort, we strongly recommend modest clothing. This means clothing that covers your shoulders and knees. Loose, lightweight, long clothing is both respectful and cool in the predominantly hot Asian climate. In many rural areas in Asia women will need to wear modest clothing even to swim. Singlets, tank tops and topless sun bathing are all unacceptable. When visiting religious sites men often need to wear long trousers and women a long skirt or sarong.
The following checklist is to be used as a guide only and is not intended to be a complete packing list. Any other items that you wish to pack are at your own discretion however you should attempt to comply with the suggested luggage weight limit.
Travel documents: passport, visas, travel insurance certificate, air tickets, Intrepid voucher
Health requirements arranged
Money: traveller's cheques/cash/credit card and money pouch
Day pack to carry your personal needs during the day
First aid kit (including Antihistamines)
Medication/prescriptions (it is a good idea to have a doctors letter if you are carrying a large amount of medication), travel sickness tablets if required
Prescription glasses and contact lens solution if required
Alarm clock
Torch/flashlight
Travel plug/international adapter
Insect repellent
Refillable water bottle and water purification method
Sunscreen, hat and sunglasses
Swimming costume
Lightweight travel towel
Ear plugs/eye mask
Comfortable walking shoes
Local language phrase book (mp3 language downloads available from www.intrepidtravel.com/languageguides)
Camera, film and/or memory cards with spare batteries
Personal audio player with spare batteries
Raincoat/umbrella
Waterproof jacket
Tampons can be difficult to buy in Vietnam
Clothes for temples - long pants or long skirts, long sleeve tops
Warm clothes for the winter months (Nov to Feb). The mean temperature in Hanoi in January is just 16 degrees celsius - so pretty cold for South East Asia. Bring a winter weight sweater and trousers when traveling in these months, and a jacket too if you feel the cold.
Packing for Children:
Travel games for long transport journeys
Antiseptic wipes or gel
Disposable camera or basic camera for kids pictures
Currency exchange rates often fluctuate. For the most up to date rates please refer to the following website: www.oanda.com.
Generally the most convenient and cheapest way to obtain local currency in Asia is via an Automated Teller Machine (ATM) or Bancomat - this can draw from your home account or from a credit card (debit card) at a superior exchange rate. Most ATM's will also give you a cash advance on your credit card but be wary of high fees imposed by banks. Check with your bank for information on their international fees. When leaving home don't forget your PIN and make sure you know the telephone number for cancelling your card if it is stolen. Keep this in a safe place. Please ensure you have advised your bank of your intended travel and withdrawal locations. While traveller's cheques have security advantages exchanging them can be a lengthy process, commissions can be high (up to 10%) and they can be difficult to change in rural areas, on weekends and public holidays. If you choose to bring travellers cheques, make sure they are a major brand and major currency.
Please note that most establishments in Asia will not accept foreign currency notes that are old, torn or faded and they can be very difficult to exchange or extra fees added when exchanging at banks. Please ensure that you have new, clean notes.
Vietnam: We recommend that you use Vietnamese Dong (VND), the official currency, for all or most transactions in Vietnam. Some establishments will accept US currency (USD), but usually only for large purchases and in some restaurants and hotels that cater to tourists. ATMs are widely available in Vietnam, with the exception of smaller cities and rural areas. It is less convenient to exchange other currencies into or from VND, as black market currency exchanges are not really recommended and not all banks offer exchange services. It is not possible to exchange Vietnamese Dong outside the country, so convert or spend all your Dong before leaving. It can be very difficult to change traveller's cheques outside the big cities.
All departure taxes should be included in your international flight ticket.
If you need to be contacted while travelling we recommend email. Email cafes are generally available throughout the regions we visit, although it is possible you may be without email contact for several days on some itineraries. If someone wishes to contact you in an emergency while you are on one of our trips we recommend that they contact your local booking agent, or refer to our emergency contact details. We don't recommend that family and friends try to contact you through hotels, as they are subject to change and the reception staff may not speak English.
While we always endeavour to provide the best possible holiday experience, due to the nature of travel and the areas we visit sometimes things can and do go wrong. Should any issue occur while you are on your trip it is imperative that you discuss this with your group leader or our local partner straight away so that they can do their best to rectify the problem and save any potential negative impact on the rest of your trip.
We recognise that there may be times when your group leader/local partner may not be able to resolve a situation to your satisfaction - if this is the case please ask the leader if you may speak to their direct manager.
You may also choose to provide details in your online feedback which we ask you to complete within 30 days of the end of your trip but we do ask you to be aware that it is very difficult for us to provide any practical help after the trip is complete.
All OUT Adventures travelers need to be in good physical health in order to participate fully in the group travel experience.
If, in the opinion of our group leader, any traveler is unable to complete the itinerary without undue risk to themselves and/or
the rest of the group, OUT Adventures reserves the right to exclude them from all or part of a trip without refund. We therefore
ask that you read the itinerary in these Trip Notes thoroughly and then realistically self-assess your physical ability to complete
the trip as described. Please consult with your doctor if you have any doubts.
There are no specific health requirements for this trip. However, you should consult your doctor for up-to-date information and prescriptions for vaccinations, travel sickness tablets, anti-malarial requirements and any reasonably foreseeable illnesses before your departure. We recommend that you carry a first aid kit as well as any personal medical requirements (including a spare pair of glasses) as we do travel to areas that are away from medical facilities. Please be aware that for legal reasons any leaders/guides are prohibited from administering any type of drug including headache tablets and antibiotics. Please ensure that you are adequately prepared.
Please contact us should you require any clarification on what is involved on your itinerary. For travellers over 70 years a completed Intrepid Medical certificate is required.
We are very aware of the health issues raised by bird flu and SARS and these have been taken into consideration for all aspects of the trip you are about to take. We reserve the right to make last minute changes to any itinerary in the very unlikely occurrence that an area should suddenly be deemed to be unsafe because of an outbreak of bird flu, SARS or other disease.
Dengue Fever is common in Vietnam and can occur throughout the year. This virus is transmitted by mosquitoes. There is no vaccination against it, but there are preventative measures that you can take such as wearing long clothing, using repellent and being indoors particularly around dusk and dawn.
We also recommends the services of Family Medical Practice for all the medical requirements of our travellers and staff when travelling in Vietnam. Family Medical Practice 24 hour clinics have expatriate doctors and specialists, and can be found at the following locations:
Website: www.vietnammedicalpractice.com
HANOI
Van Phuc Compound, 298 I Kim Ma Road, Ba Dinh District, Hanoi, Vietnam
24-hrs Emergency Tel: +84 (0) 4 3843 0748, Fax: +84 (0) 4 3846 1750
Email: hanoi@vietnammedicalpractice.com
HO CHI MINH CITY
Diamond Plaza, 34 Le Duan Street, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
24-hrs Emergency Tel: +84 (0) 8 3822 7848, Fax: +84 (0) 8 3822 7859
Email: hcmc@vietnammedicalpractice.com
DANANG
50-52 Nguyen Van Linh Street, Nam Duong Ward, Hai Chau District, Danang, Vietnam
Tel: +84 (0) 511 3582 700, Fax: +84 (0) 511 3583 049
24-hrs Emergency Tel: +84 (0) 913 917 303
Email: danang@vietnammedicalpractice.com
Health:
Kids bellies are delicate and standards of hygiene you may experience while travelling in this region can be less than what you are accustomed to at home.
There are a few simple precautions you can take that will keep the family travelling in good health.
Drinking water:
Make sure you always travel with plenty of water so you do not risk dehydration.
Food:
With all the exotic tastes available it would be a shame to avoid this great experience of trying new foods for the first time- both kids and parents! In most cases food is fresh and tasty and perfectly fine to eat, however it can contain ingredients that you are not used to. Any change in diet (no matter where in the world you travel) can result in an upset stomach. Usually this is the only side-effect and it can last a few days. We don’t want you to miss out savouring new flavours, but be wary of what you choose to eat - especially what your kids eat.
Hygiene:
Keep your hands clean- and the kids'. It is important to remember to do this before eating especially if you will be eating with your hands as may be the custom. Antiseptic wipes or antiseptic hand gel (which you can use without water) are fabulous inventions - made with travelling families in mind.
Contact with Animals:
In new and exciting destinations we often come across different animals such as camels, donkeys and elephants. There are also a lot of stray cats and dogs in some destinations. Keep an eye on children in these situations as aggravated animals can bite and may transmit diseases including rabies.
Many national governments provide a regularly updated advice service on safety issues involved with international travel.
We recommend that you check your government's advice for their latest travel information before departure.
Please refer to our website's Safety page for links to major travel advisories and updates on safety issues
affecting our trips: www.out-adventures.com/safety.
We strongly recommend the use of a neck wallet or money belt while travelling, for the safe-keeping of your passport,
air tickets, cash and other valuable items. Leave your valuable jewelry at home - you won't need it while travelling.
Many of our hotels have safety deposit boxes, which is the most secure way of storing your valuables.
A lock is recommended for securing your luggage. Your leader will accompany you on all included activities however
during your trip you will have some free time to pursue your own interests, relax and take it easy or explore at your leisure.
While your group leader will assist you with the available options in a given location, please note that any optional
activities you undertake are not part of your OUT Adventures itinerary, and OUT Adventures makes no representations
about the safety of the activity or the standard of the operators running them. Please use your own good judgment when
selecting an activity in your free time. Please also note that your group leader has the authority to amend or cancel
any part of the trip itinerary if it is deemed necessary due to safety concerns. For more details on the type of conditions
and safety standards you can expect on your trip, please refer to OUT Adventures' operational safety policy at
www.out-adventures.com/safety.
We recommend that you take a moment to read through this information before travelling, and would appreciate any
feedback on how well it is being implemented in the field.
Please be aware that while travelling there is the risk of pick-pocketing and petty theft, particularly in the more touristy areas. We recommend that you exercise caution when walking alone at night and encourage you to walk together and only on main, well lit thoroughfares. Be particularly vigilant on public transport, including keeping an eye on any luggage that is put underneath the seats or on overhead racks. Simple measures like carrying your day pack on your front, not hanging your bag over the back of your chair and wearing a money belt will reduce any chance that your valuables should go missing.
Please be aware that local laws governing tourism facilities differ from those in the western world and not all the accommodation which we use on this trip has fire exits, smoke alarms or fire extinguishers.
Depending on where you come from please note that drivers in this part of the world may drive on the opposite side of the road from what you are used to. Look both ways before crossing any road. Traffic can be a little more chaotic than you might be used to at home. Be aware on the roads and even small streets and alleyways. Vehicles find their ways into impossibly small passages leaving no room for both you and the traffic. Traffic can be very noisy and horns are used to signal turning, overtaking and to announce going through intersections.
While life jackets are available on water craft in Asia, there may be occasions where child size life jackets are not readily available. If travelling with children and this safety issue concerns you we will be able to advise alternative methods of transport (where available) for you to travel to the next destination. You can choose to travel independently for this leg of the journey. This would be at your own expense.
Your leader will conduct a brief safety discussion before our snorkelling activity.
On an OUT trip you will be travelling with other gay or gay-friendly passengers. We encourage open minded friends and family to join our trips. As you travel on a group trip you will be exposed to all the pleasures and maybe some of the frustrations of travelling in a group. Your fellow travelers will probably come from all corners of the world and likely a range of age groups too. We ask you to be understanding of the various needs and preferences of your group - patience with your fellow travelers is sometimes required for the benefit of everyone's travel experience. Remember too that you have responsibilities to the group. If you are requested to be at a place at a certain time, ensure that you don't keep the rest of the group waiting. We have found time and time again that the very best trips we operate are those where the dynamics within the group work well - this takes just a little effort on your part.
Please note that due to privacy reasons we are unable to provide you with contact details and any personal information about your fellow travelers booked on your trip prior to departure.
With the exception of our Comfort and In Style trips, our group trips are designed for shared accommodation and do not involve a single supplement. Single travellers share with people of the same sex for the duration of the trip, in accommodation ranging from twin to multi-share. Please note some of our itineraries have accommodation booked on a mixed gender share basis - where applicable this will be specified in our Trip Notes. On our Comfort & In Style trips you have the choice of sharing or paying a single supplement. Please note that this only applies to accommodation during the tour. Pre- and post-trip accommodation will be booked on a single room basis.
We believe strongly in low impact, or rather, positive impact tourism. Broadly speaking this means that we try to minimize the negative aspects of tourism on the local cultures and environments that we visit and highlight the positive aspects. Please refer to our website at www.out-adventures.com/responsibletravel for further details and suggestions on how you can be a responsible traveler.
Illegal drugs will not be tolerated on our trips. Possessing or using drugs not only contravenes the laws of the land but also puts the rest of the group at risk. Smoking marijuana and opium is a part of local culture in some parts of the world but is not acceptable for OUT Adventures travelers. OUT Adventures' philosophy of travel is one of respect towards everyone we encounter, and in particular the local people who make our destinations such special places. The exploitation of prostitutes is completely contrary to this philosophy. Our group leader has the right to expel any member of the group if drugs are found in their possession or if they use prostitutes.
All OUT Adventures travelers are required to sign a Participation Form on day 1 of the trip. Please note that signing the form is a prerequisite of travelling with OUT Adventures. The wording of this form follows: "I understand that travelling with OUT Adventures may involve risks (and rewards) above and beyond those encountered on a more conventional holiday, and that I am undertaking an adventure trip with inherent dangers. I understand that I am travelling to geographical areas where, amongst other things, the standard of accommodation, transport, safety, hygiene, cleanliness, medical facilities, telecommunications and infrastructure development may not be of the standard I am used to at home or would find on a conventional holiday. I have read and understood the OUT Adventures Trip Notes for the trip I am undertaking and have provided details of any pre-existing medical conditions I have to OUT Adventures' representatives.
I accept these risks and obligations and I fully assume the risks of travel. I release OUT Adventures from any liabilities connected to these risks to the maximum extent permitted by law."
After your travels, we want to hear from you! This is so important to us that we'll give you 5% off the price of your next trip if your feedback is completed on-line within 4 weeks of finishing your trip. Go to: www.out-adventures.com/feedback
Thanks
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OUT Adventures holds an annual photography competition. For more information, prize details, entry form and competition conditions,
please visit www.out-adventures.com/photocomp.
Send entries to The Editor,
OUT Adventures,
PO Box 98026, 970 Queen St E
Toronto, ON
Canada, M4M 3L9
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