Vietnam Safe and Responsible Travel

Intrepid Foundation at Work Around the World

The Intrepid Foundation provides travellers with an opportunity to give something back to the many wonderful communities we travel to. By donating to The Intrepid Foundation you can make a difference in local communities - in health care, education, human rights, child welfare and the protection of wildlife and the environment.

In Vietnam, The Intrepid Foundation proudly supports:
The Cuc Phuong Turtle Conservation Centre

Cuc Phuong Conservation Projects

The Cuc Phuong Turtle Conservation Centre works to protect the many species of endangered turtle that live within the Cuc Phuong National Park. Breeding programs, research and habitat conservation all help to reverse the population decline of turtles that are endemic to this region.

Image supplied by The Cuc Phuong Turtle Conservation Centre.

Blue Dragon Children's Foundation

Blue Dragon Children's Foundation

This organisation supports some of the most vulnerable children in Vietnam. Homeless, disabled and poverty stricken kids are greatly assisted by the health, education and social development programs run by this worthy organisation.

Image supplied by Blue Dragon Children's Foundation.

Children's Hope in Action

Children's Hope in Action

Caring for some of Vietnam's neediest children, this grassroots organisation provides life-saving medical treatment, therapy programs and education opportunities to families without means.

Image supplied by Children's Hope in Action.

KOTO Saigon Training Centre

KOTO Saigon Training Centre

This not-for-profit restaurant and vocational training program changes the lives of disadvantaged youth in Vietnam. Providing hospitality training, English language education and life skills, the KOTO cafe not only serves up great food, but also changes people's lives in the process.

Image supplied by KOTO.


Responsible Travel Tips

Local Vietnamese artistSharing photos with locals
 
Animal blood is a popular breakfast item in some parts of Vietnam
 

Intrepid is committed to travelling in a way that is respectful of local people, their culture, local economies and the environment. It's important to remember that what may be acceptable behaviour, dress and language in your own country, may not be appropriate in another. Please keep this in mind while travelling.

Top responsible travel tips for Vietnam


  1. Be considerate of Vietnam’s customs, traditions, religion and culture.
  2. Dress modestly and respectfully. Shoulders to knees should be covered, especially when entering places of worship.
  3. For environmental reasons, try to avoid buying bottled water. Instead, fill a reusable water bottle or canteen with filtered water.
  4. Always dispose of litter thoughtfully, including cigarette butts.
  5. When bargaining at markets, stay calm, be reasonable and keep a smile on your face. It's meant to be fun!
  6. Learn some local language and don't be afraid to use it - simple greetings will help break the ice.
  7. Shop for locally made products. Supporting local artisans helps keep traditional crafts alive.
  8. Refrain from supporting businesses that exploit or abuse endangered animals.
  9. Please ask and receive permission before taking photos of people, including children.
  10. When on community visits or homestays, refrain from giving gifts or money to locals.

Health and Safety

Intrepid takes the health and safety of its travellers seriously, and takes every measure to ensure that trips are safe, fun and enjoyable for everyone. We recommend that all travellers check with their government or national travel advisory organisation for the latest information before departure:

From Australia?
Go to: http://www.smartraveller.gov.au/
From New Zealand?
Go to: http://www.safetravel.govt.nz/
From Canada?
Go to: http://www.voyage.gc.ca/
From the US?
Go to: http://travel.state.gov/
From the UK?
Go to: http://www.fco.gov.uk/en/
The World Health Organisation
also provides useful health information:
Go to: http://www.who.int/en/