Bangkok to Hanoi: Chiang Mai, Night Markets & Streetside Bars - 9 Days

Frequently asked questions

• What is the minimum and maximum age for participants on this tour?

  The minimum age for this trip is 18 years, and the maximum age is 35 years.

• What is the typical group size for this tour?

  The group size ranges from a minimum of 1 to a maximum of 24 participants, with an average of 16.

• What types of accommodation are provided on this tour?

  Accommodation includes 4 nights in hostels, 1 night on a floating raft, 1 night in a hotel, 1 night in a guesthouse, and 1 night on an overnight sleeper train. Primarily, it's multi-share hostels (typically 6-8 people per room) with mixed-gender and female-only dorm options, and twin-share upgrades may be available. Note that the floating raft and overnight train accommodations do not have gender separation or twin-share options.

• Are meals included in the tour price?

  Yes, the tour includes 8 breakfasts, 3 lunches, and 4 dinners. Generally, meals are not included when there are diverse eating options, allowing for flexibility, but the specified meals are provided. Vegetarians will find options, though choices might be limited in some areas.

• What modes of transportation will be used during the tour?

  Transportation methods include private vehicles, tuk-tuks, boats, bicycles, trains, songthaews, cyclos, and walking.

• Who will lead the tour group?

  All group trips are accompanied by a Chief Experience Officer (CEO) throughout, along with local guides in specific areas to provide more specialized knowledge.

• What optional activities are available during the tour?

  In Chiang Mai, optional activities include a Northern Thai Cooking Class and a Half-Day Chiang Mai Cycling Tour (1500THB per person). In Hanoi, you can choose from a Tran Quoc Pagoda Visit, Hanoi City Highlights tour, Thăng Long Water Puppet Theatre Performance (200000VND per person), and a Hanoi Cycling Tour. An optional Hạ Long Bay Junk Boat Trip is also available.

• What are the visa and entry requirements for Thailand and Vietnam?

  All travelers need a valid passport with at least 6 months validity. For Thailand, most nationalities do not need a visa for stays of 30 days or less (available on arrival at Bangkok Airport), but a tourist visa is required in advance for stays over 30 days. For Vietnam, visas need to be arranged ahead of time (minimum 2 weeks processing) as they are not available upon arrival; Vietnamese E-Visas can be applied for online. Additionally, from May 1, 2025, non-Thai nationals must complete the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) online before arrival. It is crucial to check the most up-to-date requirements with your local embassy or consulate.

• Are international flights included in the tour price?

  No, international flights are generally not included in the price of your tour. However, an included flight between Chiang Mai and Hanoi is part of the itinerary.

• What currency should I use, and how should I manage my money during the trip?

  The local currencies are Thai Baht and Vietnamese Dong. Debit cards (Visa and Mastercard networks) are the best way to carry money, allowing you to withdraw local currency from ATMs. It's recommended to carry both a Visa and Mastercard. You should also bring at least USD $200 (or equivalent) as an emergency fund in cash, ensuring notes are new and in good condition.

• Is tipping customary on this tour?

  Yes, tipping is customary in Asia, typically around 10% for service providers like waiters. For drivers and local guides, recommendations range from $1.5-$3.5 USD per person per day. If you feel your CEO did an outstanding job, a tip of $20-25 USD per person per week is a guideline. Your CEO can provide specific recommendations.

• What are the recommended dress standards to respect local customs?

  In Asia, conservative dress is recommended. You should pack loose, lightweight, long clothing to stay cool. When visiting villages, temples, mosques, or other holy sites in predominantly Buddhist, Hindu, and Muslim countries, please dress respectfully, avoiding very short shorts/skirts and singlets/tank-tops.

• What important safety and security information should I know for this trip?

  It is strongly recommended to use a neck wallet or money belt for valuables and to leave valuable jewelry at home. Many hotels have safety deposit boxes. A lock for luggage is also advisable. Be cautious of petty theft, especially in Vietnamese cities at night, where snatching by opportunists on motorbikes can occur. Always leave passports and excessive cash in the hotel safe and carry bags over your neck. When exploring alone at night, stay in small groups and use taxis. Participation in water-based activities is at your own risk unless accompanied by a guide.

• Are there any specific rules or warnings I should be aware of for this trip?

  Illegal drugs are not tolerated and can lead to expulsion from the group. The use of paid sex workers is also strictly against the tour's philosophy. Additionally, exercise caution when purchasing gems in Bangkok, as the tour operator cannot assist in cases of scams.

• What are the main highlights of this tour?

  Key highlights include cruising Bangkok's canals on a traditional klong boat, cooking authentic northern Thai cuisine, sampling foodie favorites at street food stalls and night markets, an included flight between Chiang Mai and Hanoi to maximize time, and visiting Hanoi's famous street-side microbreweries.

• What is the travel style of this tour?

  This tour is a 'Roamies by Hostelworld & G Adventures' style trip, indicating a hostel-based adventure.

• How does this tour accommodate solo travelers?

  Solo travelers are welcome, and the group trips are designed for shared accommodation without a single supplement. Single travelers are typically paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex for the trip's duration. Note that some specific accommodations, like the floating raft and overnight train, may involve shared rooms without gender separation or twin options.

• What should I know about health and medical considerations for this trip?

  It is your responsibility to consult with your travel doctor for up-to-date medical travel information and required inoculations well before departure. We recommend carrying a First Aid kit, hand sanitizers, and any personal medical requirements. Our CEOs are prohibited from administering any drugs. Pharmacies in Asia generally stock Western drugs, but it's best to bring full drug names for prescriptions.