Vietnam

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Contents

Preparing to Travel .................................................................................................................................. 3

Travel Documents ............................................................................................................................................................. 3 Visas .................................................................................................................................................................................. 3 Vaccinations ...................................................................................................................................................................... 5 Travel Insurance ................................................................................................................................................................ 6 Money ............................................................................................................................................................................... 6 Packing Essentials.............................................................................................................................................................. 6 Toiletries & Medication ..................................................................................................................................................... 8 First Aid Kit ........................................................................................................................................................................ 8 Flights & Luggage allowances ............................................................................................................................................ 8 Departure Taxes ................................................................................................................................................................ 8

Welcome to Vietnam .............................................................................................................................. 9

Introduction ...................................................................................................................................................................... 9 Country Information ......................................................................................................................................................... 9 Landscape ......................................................................................................................................................................... 9 Climate & Climate Chart .................................................................................................................................................. 10 People ............................................................................................................................................................................. 11 Religion ........................................................................................................................................................................... 11 Cuisine ............................................................................................................................................................................. 11 History ............................................................................................................................................................................. 12 Language ......................................................................................................................................................................... 13

Travelling in Vietnam ............................................................................................................................ 14

On Arrival (meeting your guide) ...................................................................................................................................... 14 Mobile Phones ................................................................................................................................................................ 14 Internet ........................................................................................................................................................................... 14 Electricity......................................................................................................................................................................... 14 Health .............................................................................................................................................................................. 14 Eating and Drinking ......................................................................................................................................................... 15 Shopping ......................................................................................................................................................................... 15 Cultural Etiquette ............................................................................................................................................................ 15 Tipping ............................................................................................................................................................................ 16 Public Holidays ................................................................................................................................................................ 17 Sustainable Tourism ........................................................................................................................................................ 17 Safety Tips ....................................................................................................................................................................... 18 Useful phrases ................................................................................................................................................................. 19

Booking Terms & Conditions ................................................................................................................. 20

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Preparing to Travel All nationalities, with the exception of some Asian nationals, must have a visa to enter Vietnam.

Check with the embassy or consulate for the latest requirements and please refer to the visa section

below for additional information.

Travel Documents We recommend that you carry photocopies of your passport and visa, plus at least 2 passport-sized

photos if you have applied for an on-arrival visa. When flying into or within Vietnam, you will be

given baggage claim tags (they might be attached to the back of your ticket). Please keep these as

you will need to show them when leaving the airport.

Visas You MUST obtain a Vietnam visa or a Visa Approval Letter prior to your arrival into Vietnam. All nationalities, with the exception of some Asian nationals, must have a visa to enter Vietnam. You

may apply for a visa through a Vietnamese embassy or consulate in your country. Check with the

embassy or consulate for the latest requirements.

Alternatively if you prefer not to send off your passport or need your passport for your current

travel, we can assist you in obtaining a visa-on-arrival if you are travelling to Vietnam by air and

flying into one of the 3 international airports – Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon), Hanoi or Danang. For other

land and river borders, a visa must be obtained in advance.

Please make sure your passport is valid more than 6 months from the date of departure of each

country you are visiting. Also make sure you have enough blank pages - you may need up to 1.5

pages for each country you visit in Southeast Asia.

We always advise our customers to get their visas from the Vietnam Embassy before you travel as

this is the lowest risk process:

1. Vietnam Embassy process: Official process via the Vietnam Embassy in your country (see

below).

2. Visa On Arrival process: Pre-pay and obtain a visa approval letter and pay for the visa on

arrival - this process can only be used if flying into Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon), Hanoi or

Danang airports.

1. Vietnam Embassy Process (recommended):

This generally takes about 1 week, but could take a little longer. Download the application form,

complete it and attach one passport sized photo (obtainable from most post offices). Submit in

person to the Embassy or send by registered or express post. Ensure you include your passport,

completed form with photo and payment, as well as a registered mail self addressed envelope if you

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wish to have your passport returned to you by post. If applying by post, payment can be made by

money order or bank cheque for the total fees required, made out to "The Embassy of Viet Nam".

Check the visa details when your visa is returned.

Visa application form and instructions:

United Kingdom Information: Application form: Address:

http://vietnamembassy.org.uk/ http://vietnamembassy.org.uk/visaformf.pdf 12-14 Victoria Road, London W8 5RD

Australia Information: Application form: Address:

Vietnam Embassy Australia Click here The Embassy of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam in Australia 6 Timbarra Crescent, O'Malley, ACT 2606

New Zealand Information: Address:

http://www.vietnamembassy-newzealand.org/en/ Level 21 Grand Plimmer Tower, 2-6 Gilmer Terrace, Wellington 6011 Unfortunately previous customers have had difficulties getting much assistance from the Vietnam embassy in New Zealand. Perhaps try contacting them, but it may be easier to the Visa On Arrival service. Phone GetAboutAsia for more advice on this if required.

2. Visa On Arrival process

To arrange for a visa on arrival available only at HCMC (Saigon), Danang and Hanoi airports, please

contact us. We will advise of the current processing fee and will need the following information:

1. Arrival date with arrival flight information

2. Full passport details (legal names as per Passport/nationality/date & place of birth/passport

number/expiry date)

3. Occupation

It normally takes several working days to secure a Visa Authorisation Letter, which will be emailed

to you. You must print off this letter to present when boarding your inbound flight to Vietnam. The

effective date will be mentioned in the approval letter. You are not allowed to enter Vietnam before

the authorized date of entry (Countries in Africa and the Middle East along with India and Turkey

require an additional letter to be filed for the Visa on Arriva so please allow 2 additional weeks for

processing.)

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In addition to the processing fee for the Visa on Arrival, there is a $25 stamping fee which must be

paid in USD cash on arrival at the airport. Please be advised that there may be long queues at the

airport while waiting for the visa stamp.

PLEASE NOTE THAT EACH CLIENT IS SOLELY RESPONSIBLE FOR OBTAINING ALL NECESSARY VISAS

BEFORE JOINING A TOUR. GetAboutAsia cannot accept responsibility for anyone who is refused

entry to a country because they lack the correct documentation.

Vaccinations No vaccinations are compulsory in Asia, but please consult your doctor or travel clinic for current

information. As a guide we recommend the following:

Diphtheria

Hepatitis A

Tetanus

Typhoid

Yellow Fever if arriving from an infected area

The risk of malaria in Vietnam is low and is mainly found in the central highlands – please consult

with your GP for more information.

It is every client’s responsibility to have the necessary vaccinations for travel. GetAboutAsia will not

be held responsible for travel delays or refused entry into countries due to customers not having the

necessary vaccinations.

Other resources:

Specialist Travel Doctors in Australia for advice and receiving vaccinations:

www.traveldoctor.com.au

UK NHS Travel Vaccine web page:

www.nhs.uk/Planners/vaccinations/Pages/Travelvaccines.aspx

Australian Government Immunisation web page:

www.health.gov.au/internet/immunise/publishing.nsf/Content/Handbook-travel

Australian, Victorian State Government health web page:

www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/bhcv2/bhcarticles.nsf/pages/Travel_vaccinations

We also recommend:

A dental check up prior to travelling

That you know your blood group in case of emergency

That if you have any pre-existing medical conditions that may affect you on tour, that you

make these known to your guide and to GetAboutAsia at the time of booking

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Travel Insurance It is mandatory to have comprehensive travel insurance on our trips. We can recommend travel

insurance providers for the region that you are travelling in or you can research your own. Please be

diligent when choosing a provider and ensure that their policy provides adequate cover for personal

accident, medical expenses including hospital fees and medical evacuation, cancellation,

curtailment, repatriation, lost luggage as well as adequate cover for any activities or sports you may

take part in whilst travelling.

We recommend that you have a photocopy of your insurance document which you keep separately

from the original.

Money Vietnam’s currency is the Vietnam Dong (VND). The exchange rate is around 20,000 VND to the US

Dollar (check currency conversion websites such as www.xe.com/currencyconverter or

www.oanda.com/currency/converter for the latest exchange rates). The Vietnamese Dong is non-

convertible outside Vietnam. Paper denominations include 2,000, 5,000, 10,000, 20,000, 50,000 and

500,000. Most are clearly identifiable by colour.

Money can be exchanged at the airport on arrival in Vietnam, at banks, official exchange centres and

at many hotels. It is strongly recommended that you do not exchange money on the black market.

Banks are open Monday to Friday and some are open on Saturday morning.

Major credit cards such as Visa, MasterCard and in some cases American Express are becoming

increasingly more accepted, mainly in larger cities and tourist places at restaurants, hotels and main

shopping malls. Transaction fees are generally 3-5%. Traveller’s cheques can be cashed at major

banks and authorised foreign exchange outlets and require presentation of a passport. There is

generally a 2-5% transaction fee for cashing traveller’s cheques.

ATM’s are now widely available throughout Vietnam. There are a number of international banks

operating in both Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City with 24 hour cash withdrawal facilities, as well as at

international airports. Here cash can be withdrawn on Visa and MasterCard as well as other cards

such as Cirrus for a 3-5% commission.

US Dollars are accepted in many hotels, major shops and at higher-end restaurants, but you will

need VND for taxis, smaller shops and cafes and in markets.

Spending money varies greatly from one person to another depending on the styles of restaurants

you choose to eat at, drinks and the amount of souvenirs you may be tempted to buy.

Packing Essentials What you take will depend on when and where you are travelling.

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If your trip to Vietnam includes beaches and mountainous areas, you will need clothes for all

temperatures. A swimsuit, sunglasses, a hat, t-shirts, shorts that are not too revealing, long trousers,

some light-weight, long-sleeved tops and a light jacket that is wind and rain-resistant will get you

through most trips. If you plan to visit northern Vietnam in the winter, you will need a warm coat or

fleece jacket. Mountainous areas can get cool, especially at night so choose clothes that you can

layer. If trekking is on your itinerary, you will need sturdy footwear with good grip. Larger cities like

Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) and Hanoi offer upscale bars and restaurants, so you may like to pack

some clothes and shoes suitable for an evening out.

The following should act as a useful checklist of essential items:

• Passport - Ensure that it is valid, in good condition with empty pages available

• Photocopy of Passport

• Copy of visa approval letter (if visa is to be obtained on arrival)

• Travel Insurance - Ensure that it will be valid for the whole journey

• Passport Photos - Often needed for identification passes and certain overseas visas

• Air tickets and Itinerary

• Foreign Currency (US$) and/or debit/credit cards, travellers cheques

• Debit/credit card cancellation phone numbers

• Emergency contact numbers

• Money belt - Ensure that it is discrete and comfortable to wear

• Small daypack (for day or overnight trips)

• First Aid kit - Basic travel kit

• Personal Medication - with international doctors’ note to ensure easy passage of medication

across international borders

• Sun block - High UVA protection ideally

• Sunglasses & sunhat

• Mosquito spray & insect repellent

• Comfortable walking shoes (wear these in well before your trip)

• Sandals - Useful when visiting temples and pagodas

• Long sleeve top and trousers - Useful to protect against mosquitoes at dawn and dusk and

the sun through the day

• Light weight clothing (summer months and the south)

• Warm clothing (mountainous region and Hanoi in winter)

• Camera with spare battery and memory cards

• Security code padlock

• Adaptor - 220v, 50Hz, 2 pin plugs

• Small torch

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Toiletries & Medication Although many imported beauty products are available in major cities, we recommend that you pack

staples such as sunscreen, contact lens solution, tampons and mosquito repellent. Any prescription

medication should be in its original box with the label along with the prescription to avoid any

complications that may arise at Customs.

First Aid Kit We advise that all passengers bring along their own personal first aid kit. Below is a list of some

recommended items:

Band Aids/Bandages

Laxatives

Anti-diarrhoea remedy

Panadol/Aspirin,

Rehydration remedy

Antiseptic cream/powder

Sterile dressing

Any relevant course of medication such as contraceptive pills

A complete Travellers Medical Pack can be purchased for approximately US$25 at most travel clinics,

chemists and outdoor travel shops.

Flights & Luggage allowances Each airline has its own luggage allowance policy. You are advised to check with your airline prior to

travel. All airlines stipulate that liquids, gels and/or aerosols in hand luggage must be in completely

closed containers of 100ml or less (even if the container is partially filled). Domestic airlines impose

baggage restrictions at approx 20kg maximum, so travel light where possible. Train cabins around

the country and boat cabins in Halong Bay have limited space, so please consider this when packing.

Vietnam Airlines Luggage Allowance (subject to change)

Economy: 20kg (44 lbs) checked baggage, 7kg (15.4 lbs) cabin baggage

Business: 30kg (66 lbs) checked baggage, 7kg (15.4 lbs) cabin baggage

Excess baggage charge: US$1.5 / kg for domestic flights and US$3-5 per kg for international

flights

Departure Taxes Airport Departure taxes for domestic and international flights are included in the ticket price from

Hanoi, Danang, and Saigon airports.

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Welcome to Vietnam

Introduction Vietnam is probably the best place in Southeast Asia to witness the convergence of the old and new,

the historic and the modern. There is an exciting mix of delectable Vietnamese cuisine, rich history

and stunning natural beauty. However it is the Vietnamese people who often steal the show, with

their demonstrations of ingenuity and their friendliness to visitors. Proud and patriotic, the

Vietnamese delight in sharing their traditions and history.

Vietnam is a country of contrasts. The frantic pace of the cities contradicts the traditional farming

methods employed in the peaceful countryside. The bustling Mekong Delta of the south is a world

away from the breathtaking Halong Bay in the north. Hanoi has the feel of a serious and stoic capital

steeped in history, whilst the vibrant and cosmopolitan Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon), with nine million

inhabitants and five million motorbikes, never sleeps. Both are modern cities in the making, and yet

along the small streets of Hanoi’s Old Quarter, you will still find silversmiths practicing their century-

old trade. The former Imperial capital of Hue and the ancient trading port of Hoi An offer an

evocative glimpse into the country’s rich historical past, whilst the traditional hill tribe villages in the

north and the tropical islands further south, highlight the diverse landscapes of this beautiful

country.

Country Information Population: Vietnam has a population of 90.5 million people, the capital Hanoi having a

population of 6.5 million.

Time Zones: Vietnam operates on Greenwich meantime +7 hours. Vietnam does not observe

daylight saving hours.

Country Code: Vietnam’s country code is + 84.

Landscape Vietnam is located on the eastern Indochina Peninsula, curled around the South China Sea with

3,450km of coastline. The country has a central spine of mountains, including Mount Fansipan, the

highest peak in mainland Southeast Asia.

The narrow band of lowland deserts and steep mountains in the centre give way to broad expanses

of river deltas in the north and south. Having begun its journey in Tibet, the Mekong River divides

into nine tributaries and feeds the agricultural region of the Mekong Delta. Meanwhile the Red River

Delta is the economic centre of the northern region, notably known for farming and villages

specialising in producing handicrafts.

Vietnam boasts an amazingly varied landscape, from precipitous mountains to uncharted forests and

from terraced rice fields to pristine deserted beaches.

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Climate & Climate Chart In general, Vietnam has a tropical climate with average annual temperatures ranging from 22˚C

(72˚F) to 30˚C (86˚F). Due to its elongated shape, climatic conditions vary considerably

throughout Vietnam with tropical and subtropical zones. There are two distinct seasons - wet and

dry. From April to October, most of the country is affected by south-western monsoons. The rains

tend to be concentrated in the late afternoons and provide welcome relief from the heat. The winter

or dry season runs from November to April. But in general Vietnam is a year round travel

destination.

Vietnam’s climate can be divided into three different zones - North Vietnam, Central Vietnam and South Vietnam.

Northern Vietnam (Hanoi, Halong Bay, Sapa)

In the north the temperature can range from 5˚C (41˚F) in winter to 35˚C (95˚F) in the summer.

Summer runs from April to October when it is generally warm and humid with average temperatures

around 31˚C (90˚F) and heaviest rainfall between July and August. The average temperature during

the cold season (December to March) is 20˚C (68˚F). However, in the mountainous regions in the far

north such as Sapa, the temperature can at times drop below zero (32˚F). The best time of the year

to visit is from September to December when there is a good chance of clear skies and low humidity.

Central Vietnam (Hue, Danang, Hoi An, Nha Trang)

The average high temperature in the central region is 30˚C (86˚F). Heavy storms and the highest

amounts of rainfall occur from October to November when the region is prone to flooding. Beach

destinations such as Nha Trang are warm and sunny most of the year, but with heavy rain in

November and December. The central highland town of Dalat, at an altitude of 1,500m is cooler than

the coastal areas, particularly from November to March. With a year-round temperate of 18˚C to

21˚C (64˚F to 70˚F) it is known as the “City of Eternal Spring”. Danang, Hoi An and Hue experience

typhoon activity from mid October to mid December. At this time the climate becomes cooler with

some rain.

The best time to enjoy the beach weather and cultural sightseeing is from February to August.

Southern Vietnam (Ho Chi Minh City, Mekong Delta, Dalat)

The south has dry and rainy seasons but is hot year round. The highest amount of rainfall is from

June to October with 80% average humidity and brief daily downpours. The average high

temperature year round is 32˚C (90˚F).

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People Vietnam’s cultural makeup is as diverse as its topography. The population of over 90 million is

comprised of 54 ethnic groups, mainly concentrated in the central and northern highlands. The Kinh

ethnic majority, accounting for 86% of the population, is largely found in the lowlands. Kinh or Viet

culture arose in Vietnam’s northern Red River delta, where people’s way of life revolved around the

cultivation of wet rice. Other major ethnic groups include the Cham, founders of the Indianised

Kingdom of Champa in what is now central Vietnam. The Cham people have retained their own

religion, customs and handicrafts, including the weaving of colourful brocade cloth.

The best place to appreciate Vietnam’s stunning cultural diversity is in its mountainous northeast.

Highland markets draw people from many ethnic groups including the H’mong, Dao and Thai, who

continue to produce and wear traditional clothing decorated with embroidery, batik-prints, and

beads. Having had minimal contact with the outside world, these people speak their own languages,

observe their own religious festivals and live much as they have done for generations.

Religion Most Vietnamese people observe a form of Buddhism that incorporates Confucianism and Taoism.

About 8% of the population is Catholic.

Cuisine Vietnam has one of the most sophisticated and exciting cuisines in the world - its food is fragrant

and healthy, with influences from France, Thailand, China and India resulting in a vast array of

flavours, textures and colours.

Average

Temp

Rain

(month)

Average

Temp

Rain

(month)

Average

Temp

Rain

(month)

Jan 17°C 18mm 22°C 101mm 27°C 15mm

Feb 18°C 28mm 22°C 31mm 28°C 4mm

Mar 20°C 38mm 24°C 12mm 29°C 13mm

Apr 24°C 81mm 27°C 18mm 30°C 42mm

May 28°C 197mm 29°C 47mm 29°C 221mm

Jun 30°C 238mm 30°C 42mm 29°C 331mm

Jul 30°C 322mm 30°C 99mm 28°C 314mm

Aug 29°C 343mm 28°C 117mm 28°C 268mm

Sep 28°C 252mm 26°C 447mm 27°C 334mm

Oct 26°C 98mm 24°C 530mm 27°C 268mm

Nov 22°C 42mm 22°C 221mm 27°C 114mm

Dec 19°C 21mm 21°C 208mm 27°C 56mm

Hanoi (North) Danang (Centre) Saigon (South)

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Most Vietnamese dishes are served accompanied with chilli sauce, fish sauce and soy sauce. The

traditional Vietnamese breakfast is Pho - a large bowl of rice noodles flavoured with sliced beef or

chicken and fragrant broth, and garnished with fresh coriander and bean sprouts.

Vietnam has three main regions, the North, the Centre and the South, and each has a distinct

cuisine. Generally the North is best known for its noodle soups, meats and seafood stir-fries. The

Central region, especially around Hue, has more elaborate dishes. In the South, where there is a

greater abundance

of spices, the food tends to be somewhat hotter. With over 3000kms of coastline, the seafood in

Vietnam is delicious and varied. Crabs, prawns, crayfish and squid are in plentiful supply, as well as

hundreds of varieties of fish.

Street food vendors are found everywhere and popular dishes include the following:

• Nem Ran or Cha Gio (fried spring roll)

• Banh Chung (sticky rice cake)

• GioLua (lean pork pie)

• BanhCuon (rice flour steamed rolls)

• Banh My (pate and egg rolls)

• Mivoithitbo/ga (noodles with beef/chicken)

History In 938 AD the Vietnamese ended China’s occupation of the Red River Delta, bringing to end a rule

that had started in the first century BC. Despite a thousand years of occupation, the Vietnamese

managed to cling to their cultural identity. From their cradle in the northern Red River Delta the Viet

moved south, absorbing the Kingdom of Champa in the 15th century, in what is now central

Vietnam. The official founding of Saigon (now renamed Ho Chi Minh City) took place only three

centuries ago.

French forces imposed colonial rule on Vietnam in 1883, starting an era of anti-colonial resistance

that would span the next eight decades. Having fought the Japanese occupation of Vietnam during

WWII, the Viet Minh, led by President Ho Chi Minh, declared the nation independent when the war

ended. The French rejected Vietnam’s independence and tried to regain control, leading to open

warfare that ended with the Viet Minh’s astonishing victory at the Battle of Dien Bien Phu in May

1954.

The Geneva Accords of mid-1954 temporarily divided the country. When the southern regime

refused to hold elections in 1956, Vietnam fell into a civil war. The United States, which supported

the southern regime of Ngo Dinh Diem, sent its first combat troops to Vietnam in 1965. In 1973 the

Americans withdrew, their former allies were forced to surrender on April 30th, 1975, at which time

the nation was reunified under Communist rule.

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A period of economic and political isolation from much of the capitalist world followed. In the late

1980s the Vietnamese Government eased restrictions on foreigners wishing to travel and invest in

Vietnam. Diplomatic relations with the United States were resumed in 1995. Vietnam was granted

membership to the World Trade Organisation in 2007 and has opened up trade to a large number of

countries since then. Hanoi celebrated its 1,000 year anniversary in 2010, a major milestone for the

city.

Language Vietnamese, the official language, is a tonal language that can be compared to Cambodia's official

Khmer language. Each syllable has six different tones that can be used, each changing the definition

and making it difficult for foreigners to pick up the language. Chinese, Khmer and Cham are also

spoken in Vietnam as well as various languages spoken by tribes inhabiting the mountainous regions.

In written form, Vietnamese uses the Roman alphabet and accent marks to show tones. This system

of writing, called Quoc Ngu was created by Catholic missionaries in the 17th century to translate the

scriptures.

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Travelling in Vietnam

On Arrival (meeting your guide) On arrival you will be met by your guide or local transfer guide who will be carrying a signboard with

your name on it. At some airports there are restrictions on signboards in which case the

representative may just have your name printed on a sheet of paper.

If you are unable to find the transfer staff, please call the local emergency number listed on your

tour documentation.

Please ensure that you keep the copy of your completed Immigration and Customs form as you will

need to present it to Immigration on departure from Vietnam.

Mobile Phones Your guide can assist you to purchase a local SIM card and/or handset. ‘Top up’ credit vouchers are

available at most phone shops, particularly ones displaying the network logo. You can place

international phone calls and send faxes at most hotels, although hotels often charge extra fees.

Internet Wireless (wifi) Internet access is available in most hotels throughout Vietnam and free wifi is

available in many restaurants, cafes and bars. Be careful to not save your password or sensitive

information on public computer terminals.

Electricity Electricity in most of Vietnam is 220V, 50Hz. Round two-plug pins are more common although some

places use flat pins or three-pronged pins. Adaptors are sold in local markets and usually available

from your hotel. Protect sensitive electronic equipment such as laptops from power fluctuations by

using a surge-protector.

More information can be obtained from: www.electricaloutlet.org.

Health Please consult your doctor or travel clinic to discuss your particular health or immunisation

requirements and advice on travelling to Vietnam before departure.

Please be aware that your health can be at risk in Vietnam due to poor sanitation and lack of

effective medical facilities. Rural areas may not have pharmacies and hospitals so make sure you

travel with a full supply of any prescribed medicine you take. There are International SOS clinics

which are open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, located in Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City and Vung Tau.

International SOS also a network of doctors and hospitals in 38 provinces throughout Vietnam.

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If you have a medical condition or allergy that requires particular attention, carry a doctor’s letter

which describes the nature of the condition and treatment needed.

Eating and Drinking Drinking tap water is not advisable. Bottled drinking water is widely available for a reasonable price.

The majority of hotels and restaurants will use hygienic ice, however, if eating at a market or on the

street it may be best to avoid ice.

When eating at local restaurants or at street food stalls, select those which are frequented by locals

and where the food is freshly cooked. Avoid salads and unpeeled fruits unless they have been

washed in clean water.

Shopping Vietnam is still developing, and some local sellers can be very persistent when trying to make

money, especially around tourists who they perceive to be wealthy. Vendors will probably try to

overcharge you, but rather than becoming irritated, join the game and haggle! Bargaining is a way of

life and is usually expected in markets and small shops. As a rule, when haggling go for half of what

you’re offered and work your way up. You may need to haggle for anything ... from a souvenir to a

taxi fare. Ask your guide for a few tips! Shop around before reaching a deal, especially for more

expensive items, to ensure that you are paying the right price.

Ask your guide to take you to local markets rather than the expensive tourist orientated ones. These

markets have a higher level of locally-made products and allow you to give something back to the

local community, rather than a middle man. Although we encourage you to haggle a little over

prices, please be aware that a few simple dollars for you could mean feeding a family for the artisan,

and many of these people earn the minimum wage

If you're being followed by street vendors and do not wish to make a purchase, the best course of

action is generally to say “no” firmly and politely, and continue on your way. Do not hesitate or

linger, as this will encourage the seller to try and engage you further.

If you choose to ship items home, we highly recommend that you buy shipping insurance and check

the policy details. GetAboutAsia do not take responsibility for following up on merchandise that you

choose to ship home. Please be aware when returning home (particularly to New Zealand and

Australia), as some handicrafts are made of wood and may contain seeds and MUST be declared at

Customs.

Cultural Etiquette • In Vietnam, revealing clothing is unacceptable except at the beach. Wear shorts to the knees

and cover your shoulders.

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• When visiting pagodas, temples or Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum in Hanoi, shorts and tank-tops

are unacceptable (no cameras allowed inside HCM Mausoleum). Your knees and shoulders

must be covered. Footwear and socks must be removed in temples and pagodas. Shoes

should also be removed when entering private homes.

• Remove your hat when entering a religious site, addressing the elderly or encountering

esteemed people such as monks.

• On meeting someone new, people may simply nod to each other or may shake hands. Using

both hands to shake someone’s hand is a warm gesture of respect.

• Pointing your finger is seen as offensive. The correct way to call someone over is to extend

your hand with the palm down and flap your fingers towards your wrist. To ask for the bill in

a restaurant or shop, extend one hand in front of you with the palm raised and pretend to

write on your palm with the other hand.

• When passing something to another person, use both of your hands or just your right hand.

Never use just your left hand.

• It is improper to pat children on the head

• Refrain from public displays of affection as they are considered offensive. It is very rare to

see couples holding hands.

• Try not to get angry as shouting in frustration or becoming abusive is very impolite and

generally does not achieve a positive result.

• Do not leave chopsticks sitting vertically in a rice bowl – this is because it looks similar to

incense sticks which are burned for the dead.

• If using a toothpick it is polite to cover your mouth.

Tipping Although tipping is not compulsory in Southeast Asia, it is greatly appreciated. The below is a guideline:

• Tour Guide/Drivers If you are pleased with the services provided by your tour guide and driver, then a tip for their hard work will be very much appreciated. In general, we recommend around US$10-15 per day per traveller for guides and US$5-7 per day per traveller for drivers if less than 4 people in a group. If there are 5 people or more in a group then we recommend around US$5-10 per day per traveller for guides and US$3-5 per day per traveller for drivers.

• Hotel & Restaurant Staff

A tip of 5-10% of the total bill in restaurants is appreciated. If you stay a couple of days in the same hotel, a tip to the maid service of $2-3/day is suggested. For porters, US$2-3 per time per room is acceptable.

• Boat Cruise If you travel on a local basic boat such as in the Mekong Delta, Nha Trang, Hue or Hoi An , a

suggested tip of US$5-10 per boat is appreciated - more or less depending on the group size

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and the trip’s duration. For an overnight boat trip such as at Halong Bay, the suggestion is

US$5-10 per person to cover all the boat crew.

Public Holidays • TET (Vietnamese New Year) - generally takes place at the end of January or early February

and lasts for three days

• Liberation of Saigon - 30 April

• International Worker’s Day - 1 May

• Hung King’s memorial day - 10 March (lunar calendar)

• Vietnamese National Day - 2 September

TET Travel Recommendation: Please note that we suggest that you avoid travel over the TET period.

Transport is often booked or expensive and many places are closed including restaurants, shops and

tourist sites.

Understanding TET (Vietnamese Lunar New Year)

The most important and widely celebrated public holiday of the year is Tet, the Lunar New Year,

which coincides with the cycle of the moon. This public holiday usually takes place in late January or

early February and lasts officially for three days and celebrates the arrival of spring. There are many

customs practiced including ancestral worship, giving money to children and the elderly, cooking

traditional food and decorating the house. Tet can be divided into three periods - Tất Niên (Before

New Year’s Eve), Giao Thừa (New Year’s Eve) and Tân Niên (the New Year).

Before New Year’s Eve, the Vietnamese head home for family reunions and decorate their houses

with flowers and traditional paintings. On New Year’s Eve incense is burned on the family altar,

offerings of food are made to the ancestors and the family members gather for a dinner of

traditional food such as banh chung (a square cake made of sticky rice stuffed with beans and pork),

mang (a soup of boiled bamboo shoots and fried pork) and xoi gac (orange sticky rice). This is

followed by a visit to the local pagoda and perhaps an outing to see the town's fireworks.

In the lead up to Tet, the narrow lanes of Hanoi’s Old Quarter buzz with activity. Businesses hang

festive red banners which read "Chuc mung nam moi"(Happy New Year) and city streets are

festooned with coloured light. Stalls spring up all over town to sell nothing but cone-shaped

kumquat bushes. Others sell flowering peach trees, symbols of life and good fortune which people

bring in to their homes to celebrate the coming of spring. In the south, people bring yellow mai

(apricot) branches into their homes and place a coconut, a papaya, a mango and a custard apple on

the family altar.

Sustainable Tourism At GetAboutAsia we try encourage sustainable touring from all our customers. Many of the places

you visit do not have Western class infrastructure and accordingly locals tend to use lower levels of

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water and electricity than in the West. As tourism increases it places a large strain on the local water

reticulation, power supply and other resources. Take short showers in your hotel, turn out the lights

when you leave your hotel room, minimise your waste generally and if on a trek, make sure you bag

your rubbish while you are hiking. Also remember that all ecosystems in Asia are extremely delicate.

When in these rural areas please stay to the trails and do not damage or take any plants or flowers.

Vietnamese people are proud of their culture and ancestry. Although they are now accustomed to

international tourists, each region continues to maintain their identity and culture. Generally most

Asian people dress conservatively. Consider wearing trousers and long leave shirts to minimise any

potential offence.

Safety Tips • In general, Vietnam is safe for travellers. Violent attacks are rare, although petty theft is a

problem in big cities.

• Do not take unnecessary valuable with you when travelling.

• Do not leave valuables in a hotel room except in a safety deposit box. Alternatively leave

your valuables in the hotel safe and obtain a receipt listing each item. Remember to record

your traveller's cheque numbers and credit card information just in case.

• Do not leave your wallet or mobile phone in the back pocket of your trousers or anywhere

else that is easily reached (like an outer zip-up compartment on a backpack). Be especially

vigilant in markets and other crowded places such as train stations.

• Pick-pocketing and purse snatching are more of a problem in Ho Chi Minh City than in the

smaller towns or cities. Some thieves approach on motorcycles, grab your belongings and

race off before you’ve realised what’s happened.

• Wearing a money belt or something similar close to your body is the best way to carry

money, passports and tickets.

• Use common sense and do not walk alone after dark. Avoid cyclos or motorbike taxis at

night; instead ask your hotel or restaurant to call a reputable taxi firm. If confronted by a

mugger, do not resist.

• Traffic is chaotic, if you choose to ride a motorcycle, you must have an international driver’s

license and wear a helmet. Please note that you may not be covered by your travel

insurance if you have an accident on a motorcycle, whether you are the driver or passenger.

• When crossing the street on foot, move at a slow and steady pace. Fight the urge to weave

and run! Walk slowly, looking up and meeting the driver’s eyes, and the traffic will flow

around you. For best results, follow a local.

• Bag slashing is rare, but for added safety wear your day pack on your chest.

• If you put your bag down to take a photo, or when sitting in a cafe, put your foot through

the strap. Anything left lying around is liable to theft.

• If, at the end of the day, you are unfortunate enough to be robbed – accept it as a travel

experience. Ensure that you have good travel insurance and that you have read the small

print so that you know what is required to make a successful claim. Excluding precious

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photos, most things can be replaced in Vietnam. Don’t let it spoil your holiday and don’t

suddenly believe that every Vietnamese is a thief. The overwhelming majority are kind,

honest, hardworking people who detest the thieves probably more than you do – if they are

robbed, they usually have no insurance.

Useful phrases English Vietnamese Pronunciation

Hello Xin chào Sin Chow

Goodbye Tạm biệt Tam be-et

Thank You Cám ơn Camon

Please Làm ơn Lam uhhn

Sorry Xin lỗi Seen loi

Yes Vâng Vung

No Không Khom

No Problem Không sao Khom sao

How are you? Ban co khoe khong? Ban co kwe khome?

Fine, thank you. Khoẻ, cảm ơn Kweh, kuhm uhhn

Do you speak English? Biết nói tiếng Anh không Byet noy tyeng ang kohng

My name is …. Tôi tên là … Doy ten la

How much? Bao nhiêu Bow nyew

I don't understand Tôi không hiểu Doy kom hie-oo

I want …. Tôi muốn Doy moo-uhn

Hotel Khách sạn Khack san

Restaurant Nhà hàng Nya hang

Toilet Nhà vệ sinh Nya vay sing

Today Hôm nay Home nai

Tomorrow Mai My

Bottled water Nước khoáng Noo-uk quang

Beer Bia Beer

Tea Chẻ Chay

Coffee Cà phê Café

Good Tốt Tot

Bad Không tốt Khom tot

1 Một Mot

2 Hai Hi

3 Ba Bah

4 Bốn Bone

5 Năm Nuhm

6 Sáu Sao

7 Bảy Bye

8 Tám Tahm

9 Chín Cheen

10 Mười Meui

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Booking Terms & Conditions

1. Parties

1.1 These terms and conditions form part of the contract between:

1.1.1 Chimu Adventures Pty Ltd (ACN 110 269 380) (“the company”); and

1.1.2 Any person wishing to travel on a tour provided or offered by the company (“the client”)

1.2 The person making the booking for the tour warrants that, before making the booking, he or she

has read and has agreed to be bound by these terms and conditions.

1.3 Where the booking for a tour is made other than by all persons wishing to travel on the tour, the

person making the booking warrants that he or she has advised each person wishing to travel on the

tour of these terms and conditions and further warrants that each such person has agreed to be

bound by them.

2. Payment of deposit

2.1 At the time of booking, the client must pay a deposit of at least the following:

2.1.1 In respect of cruises, an amount equivalent to at least 20% of the estimated total cost.

2.1.2 In respect of land tours, transfers and accommodation, an amount equivalent to at least 25%

of the estimated total cost.

2.1.3 In respect of airfares, 100% of the estimated total cost.

2.1.4 In respect to some specific products, a deposit of a different amount (usually 100% of the

estimated total cost) may be required. This will be confirmed in the quotation provided. (hereafter

referred to as the “minimum deposits”)

2.2 The company shall be at liberty to give notice to the client of any variation to the minimum

deposits at any time before the minimum deposits are paid.

2.3 A booking shall not be deemed to have been accepted or to be binding until such time as the

minimum deposits, or any of them that are applicable, have been paid.

2.4 The acceptance by the company of payment of a deposit does not, by itself, constitute

acceptance of a booking. A booking will be deemed to have been accepted once the company has

confirmed its acceptance in writing.

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3. Payment of the balance of the tour price

3.1 The balance of the tour price, being the total estimated tour price less any deposits paid, must

be paid at least 95 days prior to the client’s departure date. For some specific product bookings the

balance of the tour price may need to be paid earlier than 95 days prior to the client's departure,

which will be confirmed in the quotation provided.

3.2 In the event that the balance of the tour price is not paid in accordance with 3.1 above, then the

company reserves the right to cancel the client’s booking. In that event, the client agrees that he or

she shall not be entitled to a refund of any deposit paid, such deposit to be retained by the company

by way of compensation for the time spent and work performed by it. The company shall however

retain a discretion, to be exercised entirely as it thinks fit, as to whether or not to refund all or part

of any deposit paid in the event of cancellation in these circumstances.

3.3 In the event that the balance of the tour price is not paid in accordance with 3.1 above, and the

company, at its discretion, determines not to cancel the client’s booking, then the client agrees to

pay to the company any additional charges, fees or expenses that have been or may be properly

incurred as a result of the balance of the tour price not having been paid by the stipulated time.

4. Variation by the client

4.1 In the event that the client wishes to vary his or her booking, the request for a variation must be

made in writing.

4.2 The company will use reasonable endeavours to try and satisfy the request for variation and will

advise the client if it can be satisfied.

4.3 If the request for variation can be satisfied:

4.3.1 The company will advise the client of any variation in the tour price; and

4.3.2 The client agrees to pay to the company an administration fee of $100 (plus GST) in respect of

each variation requested, payable within 14 days of confirmation of the variation.

4.4 If, despite the reasonable endeavours of the company, the request for variation cannot be

satisfied, then it is agreed that the booking sought to be varied shall remain in existence (if the client

seeks to cancel the booking, the cancellation provisions set out herein will apply).

5. Cancellation by the client

5.1 In the event that the client wishes to cancel a booked tour, then he or she must provide a

written notice of cancellation (“the cancellation notice”) to the company.

5.2 The cancellation notice must be:

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5.2.1 Delivered to an office of the company; or

5.2.2 Sent by facsimile transmission to the company’s facsimile number existing as at the date of the

cancellation notice; or

5.2.3 Sent by e-mail to the company’s e-mail address existing as at the date of the cancellation

notice.

5.3 In the event that the cancellation notice is received by the company more than 95 days before

the client’s departure date (or the number of days for bookings containing specialist products that

require full payment prior to 95 days where this is advised in the quotation), then the company shall

refund to the client all monies paid less any deposit as set out in 2.1 above and which deposit the

company shall be entitled to retain as compensation for the work done and time spent by it.

5.4 In the event that the cancellation notice is received by the company 95 days or less before the

departure date (or the number of days for bookings containing specialist products that require full

payment prior to 95 days where this is advised in the quotation), then the company shall not be

obliged to make any refund to the client. In this respect, the client acknowledges that, in addition to

the work done and time spent by it, the company will have paid monies to tour suppliers and it may

not be possible for the company to obtain a refund from these suppliers where the cancellation

notice is received within that period. Notwithstanding that, the company shall, if practical, and at its

sole discretion, make such refund as circumstances reasonably permit.

5.5 (This line intentionally left blank)

5.6 The company strongly recommends that the client take out and maintain a policy of insurance to

cover cancellation of any tours.

6. Variation or cancellation by the company

6.1 The company will make reasonable endeavours to provide any tour that is advertised or offered.

However, it may be necessary for the company to vary or even cancel some tours, whether due to

force majeure or otherwise. Where it becomes necessary for the company to vary or cancel a tour,

the company will use reasonable endeavours to provide an alternate tour that is substantially the

same or as similar as practical to the tour that is advertised or offered. The client acknowledges that

such a necessity may arise from time to time and the client warrants not to make any claim of any

nature, subject to these terms and conditions, against the company in respect of any such variations

or cancellations.

6.2 The client acknowledges that the company may, in order to provide maximum opportunities for

the client, propose flexible or alternate arrangements. Any flexible or alternate arrangements may

extend to routes, schedules, itineraries, amenities and mode of transport. The client accepts, at the

time of booking, the possibility for and appropriateness of such flexible or alternate arrangements

and shall make no claim against the company in respect thereof. The information provided by the

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company in its brochures is correct to the best of the knowledge of the company at the time of print

but the company does not, and cannot, guarantee that any item or amenity will be available at the

time requested by the client.

6.3 When it is necessary for the company to substantially vary or cancel a tour that it has advertised

or offered, the client shall be at liberty to request the company:

6.2.1 To refund to the client so much of the tour price paid by him or her that the company can

reasonably and properly refund, allowing for all the circumstances; or

6.2.2 To credit so much of the tour price paid by him or her as the company can reasonably and

properly credit, allowing for all the circumstances, to another tour offered by the company but shall

not be entitled to make any further claims against the company.

7. Unused services

7.1 The company shall not be liable to refund to the client any monies paid by the client for a tour,

part of a tour or for services not used by the client.

8. Prices

8.1 Prices quoted by the company prior to or at the time of booking are calculated by reference to a

number of factors, including exchange rates, Government charges, both in Australia and overseas,

transport costs including fuel charges, prices charged by suppliers in other countries and other

matters.

8.2 The company will use its best endeavours to ensure that prices quoted by it prior to or at the

time of booking remain valid until payment in full is made for the tour. The client acknowledges that

some of the variable factors affecting the cost of the tour, including but not limited to those referred

to in 8.1 above, may increase between the time of booking and the time of payment in full. In the

event of any such increases, the company reserves the right to pass on to the client any such

amounts, provided that, subject to term and condition 8.3 below, it does so at least 30 days before

the date of departure and the client agrees to pay same.

8.3 Once the client has paid in full for the tour, the company shall not be entitled to pass on to the

client any increases in the variable factors referred to above, save where any such increases are

imposed by Government regulation, or similar, whether in Australia or overseas, or where such

increases, wherever imposed, are solely as a result of fuel surcharges. In that event, the company

shall be entitled to require the client to pay such surcharges, and the client agrees to do so.

9. Acceptance of risk

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9.1 The client acknowledges that the tours offered by the company may be considered to be, in full

or in part, adventurous. That consideration is one taken into account by the client in making the

booking. The tours may involve personal risk, such risks to include illness, injury, disease, loss or

damage to property, discomfort and inconvenience. The client, in making the booking, accepts such

risks and agrees that he or she has made the booking upon the condition that he or she travels at his

or her own risk. The client warrants that he or she shall not make any claim against the company for

injury or loss, howsoever caused, arising out of the acceptance of such risk.

9.2 It is the responsibility of the client to be informed about any travel advisories or warnings issued

by any Government Department. If a travel advisory or warning is issued by a Government

Department in relation to a destination to which the client has booked to go, then the client may, at

his or her discretion, cancel the booking (and in which case the cancellation provisions herein

referred to will apply) or proceeding with it. If the client decides to proceed with the booking, then

the client acknowledges and agrees that he or she has decided to do so at his or her own risk and

will not make any claims against the company in respect thereof.

10. Insurance

10.1 The client shall, prior to or at the time of booking, take out, and maintain for the duration of the

tour, insurance that will provide indemnity to the client for at least the following:

10.1.1 Unlimited medical expenses; and

10.1.2 Unlimited repatriation expenses.

10.2 The company shall, at any time, be at liberty to request the client to produce to the company a

copy of a policy or certificate of insurance to show that 10.1 above has been satisfied. In the event

that the client fails to produce a copy of the policy or certificate within 48 hours after being so

requested by the company, then the company reserves the right to cancel the client’s booking, and

in which case any monies paid by the client shall be forfeited to and retained by the company by way

of compensation for the work done and time spent by it. The client acknowledges that the request

for evidence of such insurance is an important request in relation to the company’s business.

11. Authority on tour

11.1 At all times, the decision of the company’s tour leader or representative will be final on all

matters of or pertaining to the tour. The client agrees to comply at all times with any decisions or

directions of the company’s tour leader or representative as well as with the laws, customs

requirements, foreign exchange requirements and drug regulations of all countries to be visited.

11.2 Should the client fail to comply with a decision or direction of the company’s tour leader or

representative, unless same shall be manifestly unreasonable or unlawful, then the tour leader or

representative may require the client to leave the tour and in which case the client agrees to do so.

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In that event, the client shall not be entitled to make any claim against the company and warrants

that he or she will not do so.

12. Travel documents

12.1 The client acknowledges that it is his or her responsibility to obtain and maintain a valid

passport, any valid visas, permits or certificates, including vaccination certificates, for any tour

booked with the company. The client further acknowledges that it is his or her responsibility to

ascertain any requirements for such matters and to ensure that those requirements are satisfied.

12.2 Whilst the company will endeavour to notify the client of any changes to matters of the type

referred to in 12.1 above, the client acknowledges that the company has no legal responsibility to do

so and further acknowledges that it is the client’s responsibility to ascertain such matters.

13. Disclaimer of liability

13.1 The company will use reasonable endeavours to ensure that its obligations pursuant to the

contract with the client are satisfied. However, despite those reasonable endeavours, it is not always

possible for those obligations to be satisfied. Unless otherwise excluded or modified by law, the

company hereby disclaims liability for any loss of or damage to the client, including loss of life or

injury, and loss of or damage to any of the client’s property, however such loss or damage may be

caused. Unless such disclaimer shall be excluded or modified by law, the client warrants that he or

she will not make or pursue any claim against the company in respect of any such loss or damage,

however caused.

13.2 The client acknowledges that the provisions of 13.1 above are reasonable and necessary for the

business of the company having regard to a range of matters including but not limited to the

following:

13.2.1 The adventurous nature of tours offered by the company

13.2.2 The location where tours are conducted, and where services, amenities and facilities may be

of a lower standard than the standard to which a client is accustomed.

13.2.3 The tours or parts of them are supplied or undertaken by third party operators. Whilst the

company has undertaken due diligence on the quality of the services offered by such third party

operators, and has been satisfied as to the adequacy of that quality, it cannot be responsible for any

acts or omissions on their parts.

13.3 The client also acknowledges that there may be flight delays (due to circumstances beyond the

control of the company) that may lead to interference with a tour for which the client has booked.

The company will not be responsible for any flight delays or loss of flight connections whether such

loss is caused by the client, the company, any of its suppliers, an airline or other. In the case of any

loss of flight connections, whilst reasonable effort will be made by the company to continue with the

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booked tour, the company will not be liable to compensate clients for any lost part of their itinerary

and the company will not be liable to pay for any additional costs that may be incurred by the client

as a result of any loss. The company strongly recommends that clients have insurance that will cover

them for flight cancellations and delays.

13.4 The client acknowledges that it is the client’s responsibility to check-in on time for his or her

flight at any airport. The company will not be responsible for any flights that are not taken by the

client due to the client’s late arrival at any airport, or for any other reason the client does not take a

flight. It is also the client’s responsibility to contact the relevant airline companies at an appropriate

time before any flight departure to confirm that all details relating to their flights are correct.

14. Medical condition

14.1 The client warrants that he or she has disclosed or will disclose to the company prior to or at

the time of the booking of a tour any adverse medical condition from which the client has suffered

during a period of 2 years prior to the date of booking. The client acknowledges that such disclosure

is important and relevant because it may affect the willingness of the company to accept the client’s

booking and may affect any advice that the company would seek to give to the client in relation to

any proposed tour.

15. Allergies

15.1 The client warrants that he or she has disclosed or will disclose to the company prior to or at

the time of the booking of a tour any allergies, including food allergies, from which the client suffers.

The client acknowledges that such disclosure is important and relevant because it may affect the

willingness of the company to accept the client’s booking and may affect any advice that the

company would seek to give to the client in relation to any proposed tour.

16. Credit card merchants fee

16.1 The client acknowledges that payment by the client by credit card will attract a merchant fee

and which the client agrees to pay to the company. Currently, the merchant fee is 2% for any

amount debited by Visa or Mastercard and 3% for any amount debited by American Express card.

The credit card fee will be debited to the client’s credit card at the time of payment of the balance of

the tour price.

17. Conventions

17.1 The client acknowledges that there exists a number of international conventions governing

travel and specifically limiting liability and compensation in certain circumstances. These

conventions include by are not limited to: Warsaw Convention 1929 as amended by the Hague

Protocol of 1955; Berne Convention 1961; Athens Convention 1974; Paris Convention 1962; Geneva

Convention 1973 and the Montreal Convention 1999. The client acknowledges that some or all of

those conventions may apply to any tour to be undertaken by the client.

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18. Binding law

18.1 The contract between the company and the client, including these terms and conditions, are

subject to and are to be construed in accordance with the laws of the State of New South Wales and,

as appropriate, the Commonwealth of Australia. In relation to any dispute between the parties, the

company and the client agree to submit to the exclusive jurisdiction of the Courts of New South

Wales.

19. Variation

19.1 These terms and conditions may only be varied with the prior written consent of the company.

20. Superseding effect

20.1 The terms and conditions set out herein supersede any previous understandings, arrangements

or terms and conditions that may previously have existed between the company and the client.

21. Binding effect

21.1 The contract between the company and the client, including these terms and conditions, shall

be binding upon the heirs and successors of the parties hereto.

22. Data Protection

22.1 The company will use its best endeavours to protect the client’s personal information.

However, the client acknowledges that the company will, in order to provide the services or

products in question, need to provide some or all of the client’s personal information to third

parties, including overseas tour suppliers.