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 beaches, temples, markets and ancient sites, Indochina has everything needed for a fun-filled adventure. Travel from Hanoi to Siem Reap by plane, boat, train and elephant and meet local friends along the way. Cruise Halong Bay, discover the buzz of Ho Chi Minh City, tour Angkor Wat and try heaps of tasty new foods.
Style
Trip Map
Itinerary
Culture Shock Rating
Physical Rating
Gay Rating
Included Activities
Optional Activities
Spending Money
Tipping
Important Notes
Group Size
Accommodation
Dive into the real world, with a softer landing. Comfort class trips are all about variety: the places, the people, the activities. It's your style of travel if you want a few little extras, but don't want to compromise on a true grassroots travel experience. You're as likely to find yourself paddling a kayak as relaxing on a cruise along the Yangtze River!
Welcome to Vietnam.
Passengers will be arriving from all around the world today, so there are no arranged activities. Your leader will organize a pre-trip meeting for the early evening. This will be followed by an optional group dinner. For meeting time and venue, please look for a welcome note at reception in the joining-point hotel. For those who arrive early, there is sightseeing information on the OUT/Intrepid noticeboard at reception. Hotel check-in time is 12:00pm.
If you arrive early, why not get your first taste of Vietnam exploring the lovely, laid-back capital? You can stroll the tree-lined boulevards to get a sense of the old days, wander the Old Quarter to uncover ancient temples and a rich, religious culture or head to the Temple of Literature, an oasis of calm right at the heart of Hanoi.
On day 2, we enjoy a buffet breakfast at KOTO restaurant. KOTO is a Responsible Travel supported program 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.
Our fully equipped hotel in Hanoi 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 3,000 limestone peaks.
There is an opportunity here to swim in the famed South China Sea as well as to explore caves filled with dramatic stalactites and stalagmites. We spend the night on board, experiencing the peace of night time in this special place. Our overnight accommodation on Halong Bay is on a sailing junk (a Chinese sailboat) 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 (4 to a room), sheets, pillow, blanket and boiling water available. Most trains have a dining carriage and there are snacks available on the train along the way.
The overnight train takes us to scenic Danang, wedged between majestic mountains and the sea, before we transfer by bus to Hoi An (approx. 4 hours). En route to Hoi An, we make two short stops: at historic China Beach and at the magnificent Marble Mountains. We arrive in this formerly busy port town just in time for an introductory tour of its ancient streets. Recently declared a World Heritage site, Hoi An is being beautifully restored and preserved. We have a full free day here to check out the age-old bridges, buildings and streets, all which reflect a fusion of local and foreign influences over the centuries. After sightseeing, make sure to experience the cuisine because food is a real highlight of Vietnam - it's not just about eating it, but seeing how a dish is made and maybe even helping out. Many cooking schools are available if you are interested.
Now, you can hit the shops! Hoi An is a shopping Mecca and there is 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 - there is a huge variety of fabrics to choose from. Just bring your favourite article of clothing or a picture of what you want and in no time at all, it will be wonderfully reproduced. For a little more exploration, you can also hire bicycles and ride around this bike-friendly town, charter a small boat to head out to sea, or relax on the beach - a popular spot to see sunrise.
Our accommodation in Hoi An is located near to the bustling local market and has private facilities, air conditioning, restaurant, bar and a pool.
It's only a short distance to Danang Airport, where we board our flight to the economic hub of Ho Chi Minh City.
There is much for you to discover on your own and your leader will have plenty of interesting and fun ideas. You could hail a cyclo and let someone else do the peddling for once. Or maybe go to Cholon, the Chinatown area of Ho Chi Minh City for a spot of temple-hopping. You might even like to visit the Vietnamese version of a department store for some more shopping - the choice is yours!
On day 9 we go on a half day cyclo tour of Ho Chi Minh. A traditional cyclo is a three wheeled bicycle with a carriage at the front for the passenger to sit in, while the driver uses pedal power to power us along. This allows us to take in the sights, sounds and smells of Ho Chi Minh City without the barrier of a car window or the sound of an engine, very environmentally friendly.
Our journey takes us through Tao Dan Park to the War Remnants museum, originally opened in September 1975, the museum displays old military equipment and other related items from the Vietnam War. In the courtyard we will find some larger exhibits including a F5A fighter and a UH1-Huey helicopter. From here we continue our journey passed the Reunification Palace, previously referred to as the Presidential Palace, it is the sight of the official South Vietnamese surrender on April 30th, 1975. We will not go into the palace however our local guide will provide you with information and a chance to take come photographs.
Leaving our cyclos and cyclo drivers behind we walk to the Notre Dame Cathedral, built by the French during the colonial it and our next destination the General Post Office, are fine examples of architecture from the colonial period. We meet our cyclos again and ride to the Saigon Opera House and City Hall, situated in the centre of Ho Chi Minh city where scenes from the movie "The Quiet Amercian" were filmed, not far from the Opera House we will find the Continental Hotel where Graham Greene, amongst other famous journalists and writers, called home during their stays in Vietnam.
Our final visit for the day is the Ben Thanh market where we can practice our bargaining skills. The markets original location was close to the Ben Nghe River and the old fort of Gia Dinh was where it derived its name (Ben meaning "pier" and Thanh meaning "Fort"). The market was destroyed in 1859 during the French invasion of Saigon. It was rebuilt and later moved to its present location in 1899.
At the end of the trip you are free to continue exploring the area or your guide will assist you in getting a taxi back to your hotel.
Our midday flight takes us to Phnom Penh, the capital of Cambodia, where after settling in to our hotel, we go on a short orientation walk. This is a good opportunity to try some cooked bananas from the many street vendors - a local delicacy. Afterwards, there is free time to trawl the Russian market for souvenirs, see the glittering Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda or wander the National Museum for a look at the world's finest collection of Khmer art. An afternoon river boat ride gives us a different view of Phnom Penh - it's a chance to check out the colourful river traffic as well as the vibrant life along the shores.
On the morning of day 11 we confront Cambodia's tragic past. On 17 April 1975 Phnom Penh surrendered to the Khmer Rouge. Celebrations in the streets were short lived as the residents were forced to evacuate the city for four years. Find out about this time which is etched in all Cambodian hearts with a guided tour of the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, a former school which served as a Khmer Rouge torture centre. This is followed by a trip out of the city to the Choueng Ek Memorial, where a pagoda made up of some 8,000 human skulls marks the site of one of the many infamous Killing Fields.
If there's free time left, you might consider a visit to the Bear Rescue Centre about 20 km out of Phnom Penh. This centre is supported by a UK-based NGO and cares for around 120 endangered Asiatic Bears that have been rescued from poachers.
Our accommodation for the next two nights in Phnom Penh is at a 3 star hotel with swimming pool located centrally near the riverfront.
We take a short flight from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap (approx 1 hr), our base from which to explore the fascinating ruins of the Angkor complex.
On days 13 and 14 we visit some of the many temples within the Angkor complex. Built between the 9th and 14th centuries, when the Khmer civilisation was at its peak, the Angkor complex constitutes one of humanity's most magnificent architectural achievements. The most spectacular monuments here are considered to be the Bayon, Ta Prohm and Angkor Wat. Surrounded by a huge glistening moat, Angkor Wat is a truly awe-inspiring sight. Its soaring towers and extraordinary bas-reliefs, are one of the most inspired and spectacular monuments ever built. It is one of those monuments which looks much better in real life than in photographs. Afterwards, hang on as we take an elephant ride around Bayon - a perfect way to end the adventure.
There are no activities planned 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, speak with staff about luggage storage.
For our three nights in Siem Reap, we stay in a relaxed gay-friendly boutique hotel with a swimming pool.
There are no activities planned 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.
Arrival airport transfer
Breakfast at KOTO - Hanoi
Cyclo tour through Old Quarter - Hanoi
Water puppets - Hanoi
Overnight boat cruise and meals - Halong Bay
Visit China Beach and Marble Mountain - enroute to Hoi An
Entrance to Ancient Town and orientation walk - Hoi An
Orphanage visit - Hoi An
Flight from Danang to Ho Chi Minh City
Dam Sen Water Park - Ho Chi Minh City
Flight from Ho Chi Minh City to Phnom Penh
Orientation walk - Phnom Penh
River cruise - Phnom Penh
Elephant ride - Siem Reap
Angkor Wat temple pass (2 days) and transport to temples - Siem Reap
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.
If you are happy with the services provided by your local guides and drivers a tip - though not compulsory - is appropriate. While it may not be customary to you, it is of great significance to the people who will take care of you during your travels, inspires excellent service, and is an entrenched feature of the tourism industry across many OUT Adventures destinations.
Restaurants: Local markets and basic restaurants round your bill up to the nearest US$1. More upmarket restaurants we recommend 5% to 10% of your bill - your leader will advise.
Local guides: Throughout your trip you will at times have a local guide in addition to your leader, we recommend US$1-US$2 per day for local guides.
Drivers: You will have a range of drivers on your trip. Some will be with you for a short journey while others may be with you for several days. We would recommend a higher tip for those more involved with the group however a base of US$1 per day would be appropriate.
Local transport: For a city tour we suggest US$1 per day.
Your Group Leader: You may also consider tipping your leader for outstanding service throughout your trip. The amount is entirely a personal preference, however as a guideline US$2-4 per person, per day can be used. Of course you are free to tip more or less as you see fit, depending on your perception of service quality and the length of your trip.
Commissions: The receipt of commissions or kickbacks in exchange for recommending particular shops or services is ingrained in the culture of the tourism industry. Rather than turn a blind eye to this unavoidable issue in some areas OUT Adventures & Intrepid have established a centralized fund whereby contributions from recommended suppliers are distributed directly into The Intrepid Foundation.
A priority in establishing this fund is that the experience of you our traveller is not compromised in any way. Please let us know via the feedback form completed after your trip if we are successfully meeting this objective.
Fine Arts Museum, Hanoi - US$1
Women's Museum, Hanoi - US$1
Army Museum, Hanoi - US$1
Taxi to each museum, Hanoi - approx US$2
Bicycle Hire, Hue - US$1
My Son Cham Ruins including car transport, Hoi An - US$24
Thu Bon River Boat Trip, Hoi An - US$5
Cooking class, Hoi An - US$5
Bike hire, Hoi An - US$2
Mud Baths including taxi, Nha Trang - From US$14
Bao Dai's Villa including taxi, Nha Trang - from US$6
The Reunification Palace, Ho Chi Minh City - US$2
Saigon Cyclo tour, Ho Chi Minh City - US$4
Landmine Museum, Siem Reap - US$1
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.
If you are happy with the services provided a tip - though not compulsory - is appropriate. While it may not be customary to you, it is of great significance to the people who will take care of you during your travels, inspires excellent service, and is an entrenched feature of the tourism industry across many Intrepid destinations. Please note we recommend that any tips are given directly to the intended recipient by a member of your group as our group leaders are prohibited from collecting cash for tips.
The following amounts are based on local considerations and feedback from our past travellers:
Restaurants:
- Vietnam + Cambodia: Local markets and basic restaurants - round your bill up to the nearest US$1. More up-market restaurants we suggest 5% to 10% of your bill.
- Thailand: Local markets and basic restaurants - round your bill up to the nearest THB20. More up-market restaurants we suggest 10% to 12% of your bill.
Local guides: Throughout your trip you may at times have a local guide in addition to your leader.
- Vietnam + Cambodia: We suggest US$3 per day for local guides.
- Thailand: We suggest TBH100 per day for local guides
Porters: Throughout your trip you may at times have a porter in addition to your leader.
- Vietnam + Cambodia: We suggest US$0.5 per day for porters.
- Thailand: We suggest THB80 per day for porters.
Drivers: You may have a range of drivers on your trip. Some may be with you for a short journey while others may be with you for several days.
- Vietnam + Cambodia: We would suggest a higher tip for those more involved with the group however a base of US$0.5 per day is generally appropriate.
- Thailand: We would suggest a higher tip for those more involved with the group however a base of THB50 per day is generally appropriate.
Local transport:
- Vietnam + Cambodia: For a city tour we suggest US$1-US$2 per day.
- Thailand: For a city tour we suggest THB50 per day.
Your Group Leader: You may also consider tipping your leader for outstanding service throughout your trip. The amount is entirely a personal preference, however as a guideline US$3-US$5 per person, per day can be used for Vietnam + Cambodia / THB100-165 per person, per day can be used for Thailand. Of course you are free to tip more or less as you see fit, depending on your perception of service quality and the length of your trip. Remember, a tip is not compulsory and should only be given when you receive excellent service.
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.
A single supplement is available on this trip. To book a single supplement please contact our reservations department.
Maximum of 12 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.
Soft sleeper class train have compartments with padded berths (four to a room), sheets, pillow, blanket and boiling water 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 $300 for meals not included.
11 Breakfasts, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner
Plane, overnight train, train, minibus, boat, cyclo, walking
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.
Indochina II Hotel
40 - 42 Lo Su St
Hanoi
Vietnam
Phone: 84 4 3824 3804
Fax: 84 4 3824 3806
An arrival transfer from the airport is available if arranged at the time of booking. Transfers cannot be arranged on arrival. Please advise your flight arrival details at least 14 days prior to your departure. If you plan to arrive earlier, this arrival transfer can only be offered in conjunction with pre-tour accommodation booked through Intrepid.
Metered taxi ranks are available outside the airport entrance. Go out of the customs hall and walk through the airport exit gates A4 and A5 on level 1, you will find Noi Bai Airport taxis (+84 4 3886 8888) readily available outside. Noi Bai Airport taxi drivers wear yellow uniform shirt. Taxi fare to your hotel in town will cost approx. US$14 (VND230000) in total which. Please note these taxis are not on meter - but generally charge per trip. Please AVOID taxi touts who tell you that they have a metered taxi parked outside the airport.
If you have pre-booked an airport transfer you will be met on arrival, and your driver will be waiting for you as you get out of the customs hall and will be holding an Intrepid sign bearing your name.
Please note that neither the driver nor any representative should ask you for additional payment.
If you cannot find your pre-booked transfer, or you have any concerns about your transfer, please call our hotline at +84 903 117 770.
Normal check in time at the hotel is after 13:00.
Located in the heart of Hanoi and within walking distance to major sightseeing and shopping areas, the 3 star Indochina 2 hotel features 40 cozy rooms, a rooftop restaurant offering panoramic view of Hanoi and international buffet breakfast, lift, business centre and 2 fire exit staircases. Room facilities include double glazed windows, airconditioning, IDD phone, cable TV, mini bar, tea/coffee making facilities, in-room wifi, and natural daylight www.indochina-hotelgroup.com
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.
Golden Banana Boutique Hotel
Wat Damnak Area, Phum Wat Damnak
Kum Sala Komreuk, Krom 10
Siem Reap
Cambodia
Phone: +855 (0)12 654 638 or 012 885 36
The Golden Banana Boutique Hotel is built in a traditional pagoda style in garden setting. Almost every villa consists of two floors, the lower with bed and bathroom, the upper floor with a living room and outdoor balcony. All is furnished in a comfortable Cambodian style. The balcony with comfortable chairs and hammock overlooks the garden, pool or the surrounding area.
The villas are surrounded by a tropical garden with a swimming pool and a water-fall. There are lounge chairs so you can enjoy the sun, a cocktail or just relax in the shade of a palm tree.
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.
Cambodia: A visa is required for all nationalities. You can obtain your Cambodian visa in advance from your home country, please check with your closest Cambodian embassy and allow a few weeks for this. It is also possible to get your Cambodian visa in advance in Bangkok, please allow extra time (minimum 1 full working day) in Bangkok to do this. Approx. cost is USD30 from Bangkok. You can also, if required, obtain your Cambodian visa on arrival at the border crossing or airport for approximately USD25 - please bring one passport photo (Cost subject to change without notice from the Cambodian Government).
Please Note:
The Vietnam - Cambodia flight is from: Tan Son Nhat Airport, Ho Chi Minh City to Phnom Penh International Airport, Phnom Penh.
If your point of contact is requested, please refer to the ending point hotel listed in these trip notes. Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months AFTER your entry date into the country or you may be denied entry at the border.
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.
We are 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, OUT Trip 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
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
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 and Cambodia
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.
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.
Cambodia: Officially the Cambodian Riel (KHR) is the unit of currency. Unofficially however, US currency (USD) runs the country and is the currency you should bring, mostly in cash. Clean bills in small denominations are most useful. Notes should be 2000 series onwards. Traveller's cheques can be difficult to change. The use of credit cards is restricted, mainly to major hotels. Visa cash advances are available in major banks, and ATM's are appearing in larger cities.
Vietnam: US currency (USD) in cash is the most convenient to use in Vietnam. US currency can be used to directly purchase goods and services along with the local currency, Vietnamese Dong (VND). It is not possible to exchange Vietnamese Dong outside the country, so convert or spend all your Dong before leaving. Black market currency exchanges are re-emerging in Vietnam but are considered a danger and best avoided. It can be very difficult to change traveller's cheques outside the big cities.
Please allow US$25 for International departure tax from Cambodia and US$6 for Domestic departure tax.
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
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.
OUT passengers will be provided with life-jackets for private boats, but cannot guarantee that all public ferries will have enough life jackets or life rings for all clients.
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.
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
Do you want to see your travel photos published? To celebrate all that is travel photography,
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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