Ultimate Vietnam: Big Cities, Beaches & The Best Views Ever - 16 Days

Frequently asked questions

• What type of accommodation is provided on this tour?

  The tour primarily uses multi-share hostels (typically 6-8 people per room) for 12 nights, with a choice of mixed-gender or female-only dorms. There are also 3 nights spent on overnight sleeper trains. Upgrades to twin-share rooms (same gender) may be available, but some hostel rooms in major cities might not have windows.

• Which meals are included in the tour price?

  The tour includes 15 breakfasts, 2 lunches, and 5 dinners. Other meals are generally not included, offering you flexibility in dining choices. Your Chief Experience Officer (CEO) can suggest excellent local eating venues.

• Is there an extra cost for solo travelers?

  No, there is no single supplement for solo travelers on this group trip. You will be paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex for the duration of the trip, with exceptions on nights spent on overnight sleeper trains.

• What is the typical group size for this tour?

  The group size can be a maximum of 24 travelers, with an average of 16 participants.

• Who will lead the tour group?

  A Chief Experience Officer (CEO) will accompany you throughout the trip. Their role is to enhance your travel experience by providing information, suggesting activities, recommending local eateries, and introducing you to local friends. Local guides are also utilized for specific knowledge in certain areas.

• What is the minimum age to participate in this tour?

  The minimum age requirement for this particular tour is 18 years old.

• What modes of transportation are used during the tour?

  The tour utilizes a variety of transportation methods including private vehicles, cyclos, overnight sleeper trains (in 4-berth soft sleeper compartments which may be mixed gender), bicycles, open-top jeeps, and walking.

• What are the safety and security recommendations for this trip?

  It is strongly recommended to use a neck wallet or money belt for important documents and valuables, and to leave valuable jewelry at home. Hotel safety deposit boxes are available for secure storage. In cities, petty theft, particularly from motorcyclists snatching bags, can occur. Always keep bags carried over the neck and only carry enough cash for daily expenses.

• What is the recommended dress code to respect local customs?

  In Asia, a more conservative dress standard is recommended. When packing, choose loose, lightweight, long clothing that covers knees and shoulders, especially when visiting temples, mosques, or other holy sites.

• How much spending money should I budget for this trip?

  Spending money requirements vary by traveler based on habits for drinks, shopping, and tipping. It is also advised to have access to at least an additional USD $200 (or equivalent) as an emergency fund for unforeseen circumstances.

• What currency is used and what are the best ways to carry money?

  The local currency is Vietnamese Dong. The best way to carry money is using debit cards for ATM withdrawals (Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted). It's recommended to bring some new, good-condition USD cash for emergencies when ATMs are not accessible. Credit cards can be used at some upmarket establishments.

• Is travel insurance mandatory for this trip?

  Yes, travel insurance is compulsory. You must have a minimum coverage of USD200,000 for medical expenses, including emergency evacuation and repatriation. Coverage for personal liability, cancellation, curtailment, and lost luggage is also strongly recommended.

• What are some of the main activities included in the tour?

  Included activities feature a Hanoi Old Town cyclo tour, Bia Hoi Corner and microbrewery crawl, Hanoi Foodie Culture Tour, Tam Chuc Pagoda visit, Dong Hoi wet/fish market tour with countryside cycling, Vinh Moc Tunnels tour, a thrilling drive across Hai Van Pass with stops at An Bang Cemetery and Marble Mountain, Hoi An Old Town walk, a cooking class at the G Adventures-supported Oodles of Noodles training school, a mud bath visit in Nha Trang, a Ho Chi Minh City walking tour, and a karaoke night.

• Are there any optional activities available on this tour?

  Yes, there are many optional activities available at an extra cost in various cities. These include a full-day city tour or a Halong Bay excursion in Hanoi, caving in Phong Nha, a motorbike tour in Hue, tailor shop visits or lantern making in Hoi An, snorkeling tours in Nha Trang, and a guided tour of the Cu Chi Tunnels from Ho Chi Minh City.

• Are international flights included in the tour price?

  No, international flights are generally not included in the price of the tour. You are responsible for arranging your own international airfare.

• Are laundry facilities available during the tour?

  Laundry facilities are offered by some of the hotels for a charge. If you plan to do your own laundry, it is suggested to bring non-polluting/biodegradable soap.

• What are some important general notes about this tour?

  This tour combines with other Roamies tours, so staff and some fellow travelers may have traveled together previously or may continue on another tour afterward. Also, be aware that some hotel rooms in major Vietnamese cities may not have windows.

• What is the recommended age range for this tour?

  This tour is designed for travelers between 18 and 35 years of age.

• What is the typical group size for this tour?

  The maximum group size is 24 travelers, with an average group size of 16.

• What kind of accommodation is provided on this tour?

  Accommodation will primarily be in multi-share hostels (typically 6-8 people per room) for 12 nights, with options for mixed-gender and female-only dorms, and available upgrades to twin-share rooms. Additionally, there are 3 nights spent on an overnight sleeper train.

• Are international flights included in the tour price?

  No, international flights are generally not included in the price of this tour.

• What meals are included during the tour?

  The tour includes 15 breakfasts, 2 lunches, and 5 dinners. Generally, other meals are not included to provide flexibility in dining choices, but your CEO can suggest local eateries.

• Who will be leading the tour group?

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

• What forms of transportation are used on this tour?

  Transportation modes include private vehicles, cyclo, trains, bicycles, open-top jeeps, and walking. Sleeper trains are basic, and compartments may be mixed gender.

• Is travel insurance compulsory for this trip?

  Yes, travel insurance is compulsory to participate in any of our trips. You will not be permitted to join without evidence of travel insurance covering medical expenses, emergency evacuation, and repatriation with a minimum coverage of USD200,000.

• Do solo travelers need to pay an extra supplement?

  No, our group trips are designed for shared accommodation and do not involve a single supplement for solo travelers. Single travelers are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex.

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

  The local currency used is the Vietnamese Dong. The best way to carry money is with debit cards for ATM withdrawals (Visa and Mastercard widely accepted). USD cash is recommended for emergencies. Credit cards can be used at some upmarket restaurants and large stores. Ensure USD notes are new and in good condition.

• Are there any specific dress code requirements for visiting cultural sites?

  Yes, in Asia, the dress standard is more conservative. When visiting temples, mosques, or other holy sites, please dress respectfully, avoiding very short shorts/skirts and singlets/tank tops. Loose, lightweight, long clothing is recommended for the hot and humid climate.

• What are the main highlights of the 'Ultimate Vietnam' tour?

  Highlights include experiencing Hanoi nightlife, sampling local street food, wandering Dong Hoi fish market, descending into the Vinh Moc Tunnels, hiking in Ninh Binh, exploring caves in Phong Nha, enjoying beaches in Qui Nhon and Nha Trang, and immersing yourself in Ho Chi Minh City's hustle and bustle.

• What should I know about safety and security while on this trip?

  We recommend using a neck wallet or money belt for valuables and leaving expensive jewelry at home. Hotels often have safety deposit boxes. Be cautious of petty theft, especially from opportunists on motorbikes in cities; always carry bags over your neck and keep only necessary cash. When out at night, stay in small groups and use taxis. All water-based activities should be accompanied by a guide.

• Is tipping customary in Vietnam, and what are the recommendations?

  Yes, tipping service providers like waiters at approximately 10% is customary. For local guides and drivers, $1.5-$3.5 USD per person per day is recommended. If you feel your CEO did an outstanding job, a tip of $20-25 USD per person per week is a guideline.

• What optional activities are available on this tour?

  Optional activities include a full-day city tour or cooking class in Hanoi, an excursion to Halong Bay, temple-hopping or trekking to Hang Mua Peak in Ninh Binh, caving or a bar crawl in Phong Nha, motorbike tours or visiting the Citadel and Royal tombs in Hue, excursions to My Son or the Golden Bridge in Hoi An, and visiting the Cu Chi Tunnels or enjoying a cyclo tour in Ho Chi Minh City, among many others.

• Can I do laundry during the trip?

  Laundry facilities are offered by some hotels for a charge. We suggest bringing non-polluting/biodegradable soap for times when you may need to do your own laundry.

• Are there any important notes regarding accommodation that I should be aware of?

  Please note that in some major cities in Vietnam, many hotel rooms do not have windows. Also, the tour combines with other Roamies tours, meaning staff and some travel companions may have traveled together previously or may continue on another tour after this one concludes.

• What is Planeterra and how is it related to this tour?

  Planeterra International Foundation is a non-profit organization that turns travel into impact by supporting local community-owned businesses, empowering women, providing youth employment, and protecting the environment. The tour operator is Planeterra's largest corporate donor, covering all operating costs, so 100% of any donation made through the 'Dollar-a-day Program' goes directly to Planeterra projects.

• What rules should I know before joining this trip?

  Illegal drugs will not be tolerated, as it contravenes local laws and puts the group at risk. The exploitation of people in the sex trade is also against the tour's philosophy. The CEO has the right to expel any member of the group found with drugs or utilizing the services of paid sex workers.

• What are the visa and entry requirements for Vietnam?

  All countries require a valid passport with a minimum of 6 months validity. If a visa for Vietnam is required based on your nationality, it must be arranged ahead of time (before your trip), as processing varies (minimum 2 weeks) and visas are not available upon arrival. Vietnamese E-Visas can be applied for online.

• What is the age range for this tour?

  This tour is designed for travelers aged 18 to 35 years.

• What is the typical group size for this tour?

  The maximum group size is 24 travelers, with an average of 16.

• What kind of accommodation is provided on this tour?

  Accommodation will be primarily in multi-share hostels (typically 6-8 people per room), with a choice of mixed gender and female-only dorms as well as available upgrades to twin-share rooms (same gender). Nights 5, 11, and 14 involve overnight sleeper trains. Note that in some major cities in Vietnam, many hotel rooms do not have windows.

• Are meals included in the tour price?

  The tour includes 15 breakfasts, 2 lunches, and 5 dinners. Generally, meals are not included when there is a choice of eating options to give you flexibility, though groups often eat together. Your CEO will be able to suggest local restaurants.

• What is the physical rating of this tour?

  The physical rating for this tour is 2, indicating a moderate level of activity.

• Who will be leading the tour group?

  The group will be led by a Chief Experience Officer (CEO) throughout, along with local guides. The CEO's aim is to take the hassle out of your travels, providing information, suggestions for activities and eating venues, and introducing you to local friends.

• Are international flights included in the tour?

  No, international flights are generally not included in the price of your tour. For baggage allowances and check-in information, please contact your airline.

• What are the main highlights of this trip?

  You will experience Hanoi's nightlife, sample Vietnam's tasty local eats and street food, wander Dong Hoi wet/fish market with a Banh Mi breakfast, descend into the less-visited Vinh Moc Tunnels, enjoy free time to hike in Ninh Binh and explore caves in Phong Nha, hit the beach in Qui Nhon and Nha Trang, and immerse into the hustle and bustle of Ho Chi Minh City.

• What modes of transportation are used during the tour?

  Transportation on this trip includes private vehicles, cyclo, trains, bicycles, open-top jeeps, and walking. Train travel in Vietnam is basic; sleeper trains normally have 4-berth compartments which may be mixed gender. It's recommended to stock up on food and water before train journeys, though simple food is available on board.

• Is travel insurance required for this trip?

  Yes, travel insurance is compulsory. You will not be permitted to join without evidence of insurance covering medical expenses (minimum USD 200,000 for emergency evacuation and repatriation). Personal liability, cancellation, curtailment, and lost luggage coverage are strongly recommended.

• What are the visa and entry requirements for Vietnam?

  All countries require a valid passport with a minimum 6 months validity. Visas for Vietnam must be arranged ahead of time (before your trip) as they are not available upon arrival and processing can take at least 2 weeks. Vietnamese E-Visas can be applied for online.

• What are the specific safety considerations for this trip?

  Petty theft, especially bag snatching by motorcyclists, can occur in Vietnamese towns and cities. It is recommended to leave valuables and passports in hotel safes, carry only necessary cash for the day, and wear bags across the neck. When exploring in your free time, especially at night, it's advisable to stay in small groups and take taxis.

• How much spending money should I budget for this trip?

  Spending money requirements vary per traveler for drinks, shopping, and tipping. An additional USD $200 (or equivalent) is recommended as an 'emergency' fund for unforeseen circumstances.

• What currency should I use and how should I carry my money?

  The local currency is Vietnamese Dong. It's best to carry debit cards for ATM withdrawals (Visa and Mastercard recommended) and some USD cash for emergencies. Credit cards can be used at some upmarket restaurants and larger stores. Ensure USD notes are new and in good condition (notes older than 2003 or with tears may not be accepted).

• 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 no extra cost. This tour does not involve a single supplement.

• How should I dress to respect local customs?

  In Asia, the dress standard is more conservative. Loose, lightweight, long clothing is recommended to stay cool in the hot and humid climate. When visiting temples, mosques, or other holy sites, please dress respectfully, avoiding very short shorts/skirts and singlets/tank tops.

• What optional activities are available during the tour?

  A variety of optional activities are available, including a Hanoi city tour, Halong Bay junk boat trip, cooking classes, caving in Phong Nha, motorbike tours in Hue, tailor shop visits in Hoi An, snorkeling in Nha Trang, and a Cu Chi Tunnels guided tour. Your CEO can provide details and assist with bookings for these excursions.

• Can I do laundry during the trip?

  Laundry facilities are offered by some of the hotels for a charge. If you plan to do your own laundry, it is suggested to bring non-polluting/biodegradable soap.

• What is Planeterra?

  Planeterra International Foundation is a non-profit organization committed to turning travel into impact by helping local communities earn an income from tourism. They develop and support small community-owned businesses, integrating them into the tour operator’s itineraries globally. The tour operator is Planeterra’s largest corporate donor, covering all operating costs, so 100% of your donation will bring opportunity to people in need.

• What rules should I be aware of regarding behavior on the trip?

  Illegal drugs are not tolerated. Possessing or using drugs contravenes local laws and puts the group at risk. The exploitation of people in the sex trade is also completely contrary to the tour operator's philosophy. CEOs have the right to expel any group member found in possession of drugs or utilizing the services of paid sex workers.

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

  The safety and well-being of all travelers, including those who identify as part of the LGBTQ+ community, is a priority. The tour operator encourages visiting their LGBTQ+ page for useful resources and utilizing tools like Equaldex for specific country information to ensure comfort and safety throughout the trip.

• Is tipping customary in Vietnam?

  Yes, it is customary in Asia to tip service providers such as waiters (approximately 10%). Tipping is expected for local guides and drivers, with recommendations ranging from $1.5-$3.5 USD per person per day. At the end of the trip, tipping your CEO is appreciated, with a guideline of $20-25 USD per person per week.