The Best of Vietnam & Cambodia - 16 Days

Frequently asked questions

• What kind of tour is 'The Best of Vietnam & Cambodia'?

  This is a 16-day classic adventure through Vietnam and Cambodia, blending cultural sights with freedom to explore. You'll experience buzzing cities, golden beaches, misty mountains, and vibrant markets.

• What are the main highlights of this trip?

  The main highlights include sailing through the breathtaking Halong Bay overnight on a traditional junk boat, admiring the colourful sunrise over Angkor Wat, and exploring Hue's historic Imperial Citadel and Royal Tombs.

• What is the maximum number of travelers on this tour?

  The maximum group size for this tour is 16 travelers.

• Is there a minimum or maximum age for this tour?

  The minimum age for this tour is 12 years and the maximum age is 100 years.

• Is there an extra cost for solo travelers?

  No, single travelers joining group trips are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex for the duration of the trip, so there is no single supplement. Note that some independent trips may have different policies.

• What type of accommodation is used on this trip?

  Accommodation includes hotels for 13 nights, a sleeper train for 1 night, and an overnight junk boat for 1 night.

• What should I expect from the sleeper train accommodation?

  Train travel in Vietnam is basic. Sleeper trains normally have 4 seats per compartment that convert into sleeping bunks (two upper and two lower). A sheet, pillow, and blanket are provided. Passengers of different genders may be required to share a sleeper train berth and/or a compartment with people not traveling in your group. Simple food is available, but many travelers prefer to bring their own snacks and water.

• Are there any exceptions to the shared rooming policy?

  Yes, the shared rooming policy does not apply for the overnight junk boat (Night 2) and the overnight train (Night 3) where specific arrangements are made.

• What meals are included in this trip?

  The trip includes 14 breakfasts, 3 lunches, and 2 dinners.

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

  Transportation includes private vehicles, an overnight junk boat, an overnight train, a plane, walking, tuk-tuk, and cyclo.

• Who will be leading the group during the tour?

  The group will be led by a CEO (Chief Experience Officer) throughout the tour, along with local guides at specific sites.

• What currency should I use and what are the recommendations for carrying money?

  The local currency in Vietnam is Vietnamese Dong. Debit cards are recommended for withdrawing local currency from ATMs (Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted). It's advisable to carry both a Visa and Mastercard for backup. Bring some USD cash for emergency situations. Please ensure USD notes are new and in good condition (notes older than 2003, or with tears/blemishes, may not be accepted).

• What are the tipping guidelines for this trip?

  Tipping service providers (like waiters) at approximately 10% is customary in Asia and shows appreciation. For local guides and drivers, recommendations range from $1.5-$3.5 USD per person per day. Tipping your CEO is also appreciated, with a guideline of $20-25 USD per person per week.

• What emergency funds do I need access to on this trip?

  You should have access to at least an additional USD $250 (or equivalent) as an emergency fund, to be used if unforeseen circumstances (like natural disasters) require a change to the planned route.

• Are there any health considerations I should know before traveling?

  You are responsible for consulting your travel doctor for up-to-date medical travel information and required inoculations well before departure. It's recommended to carry a First Aid kit and hand sanitizers. Leaders are prohibited from administering drugs. Be aware that medical facilities may be remote at times.

• Are there any specific safety considerations for this itinerary?

  We strongly recommend using a neck wallet or money belt for valuables and leaving expensive jewelry at home. Many hotels have safety deposit boxes. A lock is recommended for luggage. Be aware of petty theft, especially from opportunists on motorbikes in Vietnamese cities; always secure your bags and carry only necessary cash.

• What general safety tips and free-time guidelines should I follow?

  Check your government's travel advice before departure. Your CEO can amend the itinerary for safety. During free time, use your judgment for optional activities. In major cities, it's recommended to stay in small groups and use taxis for night excursions. Avoid areas where protests or demonstrations are gathering.

• What should LGBTQ+ travelers know about safety and travel considerations on this trip?

  The tour operator prioritizes the safety and well-being of all travelers, including those who identify as part of the LGBTQ+ community. They encourage visiting their LGBTQ+ page for useful resources and using the Equaldex tool for specific country information to ensure comfort and safety throughout the trip.

• Are international flights included in this trip?

  No, international flights are generally not included in the price of your tour. However, on some combo tours traveling between two different countries, international flights are included as part of the itinerary and price of the tour. Please confirm with your booking agent.

• What is included in this tour?

  Included are: Your G for Good Moments (Oodles of Noodles in Hoi An and Local Khmer Meal in Siem Reap), a welcome meeting, free time to explore Hanoi, Halong Bay caves entrance and boat cruise with seafood lunch and dinner, free time in Hoi An, Imperial Citadel and Tomb entrance in Hue, free time in Ho Chi Minh City, Cu Chi Tunnels entrance and tour, free time to see Phnom Penh on your terms, a cyclo tour in Phnom Penh, Tuol Sleng and Choeung Ek (Killing Fields) entrance and guide, two-day Angkor Wat complex entry and guide (including sunrise tour in Siem Reap), free time in Siem Reap, an internal flight, and all transport between destinations and to/from included activities.

• Where can I do laundry on this trip?

  Laundry facilities are offered by some hotels for a charge. It is suggested to bring non-polluting/biodegradable soap for times when you may need to do your own laundry.

• What is Planeterra?

  Planeterra International Foundation is a non-profit organization dedicated to using travel for positive impact by helping local communities earn income from tourism. They support Indigenous people, empower women, grant youth employment, and protect the environment by integrating community-owned businesses into the tour operator's itineraries globally. The tour operator covers all operating costs, so 100% of donations go directly to Planeterra projects.