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days & nights | Real Experience Hanoi-Ninh Binh-Sapa Designed with great variety, these trips are geared towards travellers searching for a healthy mix of active exploration, uncommon landscapes and local cultures cultures in the North of Vietnam. Introduction From the intensity of Hanoian streets to spectacular, cultural and historical delights. Join our afternoon Hanoi Walkie Talkie Food Tour we don't just take you around Ha Noi's hottest spots - we delve deeper into its historical past, revealing the hidden charms of Hanoi. Meet Hmong people and other minority villagers in Sapa on a hilltribe excursion and row into the photographic possibilities of beautiful breathtaking Ninh Binh Hoa Lu Tam Coc in an Sampan boat on the Dong River together with the services of our guides and your accommodation and transport is all taken care of. This trip offers great value as it introduces the region’s main sights, real homestay, trekking & biking, providing plenty of flexibility so you can experience an adventure you'll never forget. With this trip, we have built our reputation! BRIEF ITINERARY Day 1: Hanoi Pick up from the airport. Welcome to Hanoi. (Optional visiting Water Puppet Performance | VIP massage treatment) Day 2: Hanoi - Ninh Binh Hoa Lu Tam Coc - Hanoi (breakfast, lunch included) Explore the beautiful breathtaking Ninh Binh Hoa Lu Tam Coc in an Sampan boat on the Dong River Day 3: Hanoi - Sapa (breakfast, dinner included) Join our Hanoi Walkie Talkie Food Tour, Overnight bus to Lao Cai - Sapa (Optional by overnight train) Day 4: Sapa - Ta Van village (breakfast, lunch included) Meet Hmong people and other minority villagers in Sapa on a hilltribe excursion overnight in a real homestay Day 5: Ta Van Village - Sapa - Hanoi (breakfast, lunch & dinner included) Continue our trek to visit the Red Dao people in Giang Ta Chai village, return to Hanoi by overnight bus (Optional by overnight train) Day 6: Hanoi - (breakfast included) Enjoy your breakfast at your hotel. Transfer to airport. End trip (Optional to book other packages or stay longer in Hanoi) Code WFTV-011-6D | Itinerary 6 days & 5 nights | Real Experience Hanoi-Ninh Binh-Sapa 1|Page days & nights | Real Experience Hanoi-Ninh Binh-Sapa ITINERARY DETAILS With this trip, we have built our reputation! Designed with great variety, these trips are geared towards travellers searching for a healthy mix of active exploration, uncommon landscapes and local cultures. TOUR INFORMATIONThe information below is intended to assist you as you consider your travel options for Vietnam with Friends Travel Vietnam. In addition to the detailed itinerary each tour has been supported with some useful information to provide you with an overview of your accommodation & meals, all things money, passports, visas, vaccinations, insurance, clothing, personal equipment and much more to help you with your travel preparations. Day 1: Noi Bay Airport - HanoiOur driver picks you up from the airport and arrive in bustling Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam. As you can arrive at various time, depends on your flight. We overnight in the city center of Hanoi. Our hotel is located in an Old Quarter. All rooms are double or twin share with air conditioning and en suite bathroom. Free-Wifi and a computer are available in the lobby Inclusion: Accommodation: Golden Lotus Hotel Room: (standard room) upgrade on request Transportation: Private car with A/C Meals: not included Optional Rice Wine & Dinner Tour Day 2: Hanoi- Ninh Binh- Hoa Lu- Tam Coc (B, L, D) 7:45 Tour guide will meet you at your hotel for the 2 hours bus trip to Ninh Binh. 10:00 Arriving at Hoa Lu Ancient Capital 10:15 Visiting King Dinh and King Le’s temples 11:30 Arriving in Tam Coc Wharf 11:45 Enjoy Vietnamese Cuisine buffet lunch 13:00 Getting on Sampan boats through caves and visiting countryside landscape 15:45 Biking to Bich Dong on country road 16:00 Getting on shuttle bus to go back to Hanoi 18:30 Arrive Hanoi trip ends at your hotel Code WFTV-011-6D | Itinerary 6 days & 5 nights | Real Experience Hanoi-Ninh Binh-Sapa 2|Page Inclusion: days & nights | Real Experience Hanoi-Ninh Binh-Sapa Accommodation: Golden Lotus Hotel Room: (standard room) upgrade on request Transportation: Private car with A/C Meals: Breakfast, lunch , dinner Others: Entrance fees, boat trip Optional Rice Wine & Dinner Tour Day 3: Hanoi City Food Tour - Overnight bus to Sapa (B-D) AM Free & Easy. PM After check out hotel, at 13:00 our tour guide will pick you up for Walkie Talkie tour . We don't just take you around Ha Noi's hottest spots - we delve deeper into its historical past, revealing the hidden secrets and giving you the 'Insider’s Guide' to life in our awe-inspiring city. It's a feast for every sense - the sights, sounds & smells - and not forgetting tasty treats we have in store for you along the way. We'd love to tell you more, but as this is Hanoi's only unscripted and interactive tour...you're just going to have to join us!. 17:00 Dinner 18:00 Pick up by our guide for your overnight sleeper bus to Sapa Inclusion: Transportation: Sleeper bus A/C to Sapa* Meals: Breakfast, lunch Tour: Hanoi Walkie Talkie Food Tour Drink & snacks: coffee, tea, fruit salad & snacks *Optional: With overnight sleeper train + 30 USD$/p per way Day 4: Sapa-Y Linh Ho-Lao Chai-Tavan (B-L-D) On arrival at Hotel in Sapa you'll be offered a refreshing shower and enjoy breakfast with stunning views of Sapa town and the Muong Hoa valley.Your private local Hmong tour guide will meet you after breakfast at around 9 am. On your request (own expenses +/- 3 USD$) our guide can arrange to transport your luggage to the homestay in Ta Van. The new day will be started with the visit to Lao Cai and Ta Van village down in Muong Hoa valley. 10 km walk, visit three villages of different minorities. Enjoy the spectacular views of the beautiful valley towards Fansipan – highest peak in Viet Nam and Indochina. Trek through the village of Black H’mong ethnic minority to learn the way people weaving and embroidering their clothes, keep going down to enjoy colourful rice paddy fields and reach Ta Van village where the Dzay ethnic people inhabited. We’ll have a filling lunch on the way and dinner in a traditional house in Ta Van. We overnight in a homestay with a local family. Code WFTV-011-6D | Itinerary 6 days & 5 nights | Real Experience Hanoi-Ninh Binh-Sapa 3|Page Inclusion: days & nights | Real Experience Hanoi-Ninh Binh-Sapa Accommodation: Local Homestay Transportation: A/C Private & Group transporation Treking distance: 10 KM moderate level 3 Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner Guide: English speaking local Hmong tour guide Others: Entrance fees Day 5: Tavan - Sapa-Overnight bus to Hanoi (B-L) After a traditional breakfast we leave Ta Van and continue our trek to visit the Red Dao people in Giang Ta Chai village. We pass some stunning scenery and a lovely waterfall along our route. As their name suggests, red is used extensively in the Red Dao women’s clothing and scarves. Our journey leads us along the small paths edging the rice fields, across the Muong Hoa River and lunch will be on the way at a fantastic spot. We’ll head back to Ta Van after our second amazing trekking in the early afternoon where we can enjoy are time before the taxi will bring you back to the hotel in Sapa where you can enjoy a refreshing shower and dinner before taking bus back to Hanoi. Inclusion: Transportation: Sleeper bus A/C to Hanoi* *Optional: With overnight sleeper train + 30 USD$/p per way Other transportation: A/C Private & Group transporation Treking distance: 8 KM moderate level 3 Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner Guide: English speaking local Hmong tour guide Others: Entrance fees Day 6: Hanoi Departure (B) Transportation: A private car with A/C Meal: Breakfast at your hotel Enjoy your last day in Hanoi. Private airport transfer provided for your next destination. End of services Dietary or special food request In order to take care of your special food request we would like you to inform us by email in advance. [email protected] Code WFTV-011-6D | Itinerary 6 days & 5 nights | Real Experience Hanoi-Ninh Binh-Sapa 4|Page Dossier Disclaimer days & nights | Real Experience Hanoi-Ninh Binh-Sapa The information in this trip details document has been compiled with care and is provided in good faith. However it is subject to change, and does not form part of the contract between the client and the operator. The itinerary featured is correct at time of printing. It may differ slightly to the one in the brochure. Occasionally our itineraries change as we make improvements that stem from past travellers, comments and our own research. Sometimes it can be a small change like adding an extra meal along the itinerary. Sometimes the change may result in us altering the tour for the coming year. Ultimately, our goal is to provide you with the most rewarding experience. Please note that our brochure is usually released in November each year. If you have booked from the previous brochure you may find there have been some changes to the itinerary. VERY IMPORTANT: Please ensure that you print a final copy of your Trip Details to review a couple of days prior to travel, in case there have been changes that affect your plans. Itinerary Disclaimer While it is our intention to adhere to the route described below, there is a certain amount of flexibility built into the itinerary and on occasion it may be necessary, or desirable to make alterations. The itinerary is brief, as we never know exactly where our journey will take us. Due to our style of travel and the regions we visit, travel can be unpredictable. The Trip Details document is a general guide to the tour and region and any mention of specific destinations or wildlife is by no means a guarantee that they will be visited or encountered. Aboard expedition trips visits to research stations depend on final permission. Additionally, any travel times listed are approximations only and subject to vary due to local circumstances. Important Notes Please note that this trip is a combination of multiple Friends Travel Vietnam’s package tours. As such, the staff and/or particular vehicles operating your tour may change between tour segments. You may also expect some group members to join or leave the tour, between tour segments. In some major cities in Vietnam, many hotel rooms do not have windows. There may be a weight restriction for the internal flight on this tour. Each passenger is allowed to carry one checked bag with a maximum weight of 20 kg. Additional bags or excess weight charges may apply. These charges are the responsibility of the passengers. Tour guide Description All Friends Travel Vietnam’s group packages trips are accompanied by one of our tour guides following our itinerary to help you to have the best trip possible. They will provide information on the places you are travelling through, offer suggestions for things to do and see, recommend great local eating venues and introduce you to our local friends. While not being guides in the traditional sense you can expect them to have a broad general knowledge of the countries visited on the trip, including historical, cultural, religious and social aspects. We also use local guides where we think more specific knowledge will add to the enjoyment of the places we are visitingwe think it's the best of both worlds. Code WFTV-011-6D | Itinerary 6 days & 5 nights | Real Experience Hanoi-Ninh Binh-Sapa 5|Page days & nights | Real Experience Hanoi-Ninh Binh-Sapa Group Size Notes Max 24, Ninh Binh Hoa Lu Tam Coc Sapa Max 12 persons Meals Included 5 breakfasts, 3 lunch, 2 dinners. Meals Eating is a big part of traveling. Friends Travel Vietnam understands the importance of breakfast to start your day, we strive to include a basic breakfast wherever possible. A typical breakfast may include toast, coffee and tea, however, they may also be Asian style, consisting of noodles, congee (rice porridge), bread or eggs; this may vary depending on the city we're visiting. Vegetarians will be able to find a range of different foods, although in some areas the choice maybe limited. Should breakfast not be included, your GL can suggest some local options. Travelling with Friends Travel Vietnam’s you experience the vast array of wonderful food that is available out in the world. Generally all meals are included in the trip price when there is a choice of eating options, to give you the maximum flexibility in deciding where, what and with whom to eat. It also gives you more budgeting flexibility, though generally food is cheap. Our groups tend to eat together to enable you to taste a larger variety of dishes and enjoy each other's company. There is no obligation to do this though. Your GL will be able to suggest favorite restaurants during your trip. While trekking in remote regions, food is included, plentiful and made of fresh local ingredients. For all trips, please refer to the meals included and budget information. For all trips please refer to the meals included and budget information for included meals and meal budgets. Personal allowances Approximate costs (per person) for popular optional activities taken in free time and personal expenses. Allow 100 - 150 $USD, depends on personal spendings What's Included? Hanoi - Hotel (Optional: Standard | Deluxe | Luxury) - Hanoi Walkie Talkie Food Tour - - English speaking guide Sapa - Trekking tour, 2 days - Homestay - English speaking Hmong guide - Bus tickets (2 ways softsleeper) - English speaking guide Ninh Binh Hoa Lu Tam Coc - Biking - Rowing boat trip - Visit temple - Entrée fees - Buffet lunch Others - All indicated in our itinerary - Meals 5xB, 3xL, 2xD - Airport Pick-up & drop off - All transfer - All entree fees Kinds of transportations Sleeper bus, local bus, air-con bus, walking, cyclo, boat. Code WFTV-011-6D | Itinerary 6 days & 5 nights | Real Experience Hanoi-Ninh Binh-Sapa 6|Page days & nights | Real Experience Hanoi-Ninh Binh-Sapa About our Transportation Train travel in Vietnam is very basic and train cleanliness is often not a priority for train staff. Sleeper trains normally have 4 seats per compartment, which convert into sleeping bunks (two upper and two lower). A sheet, pillow and blanket are provided, although many people prefer to bring their own sleeping sheet. At times, passengers of different genders may be required to share a sleeper train berth and/or share a compartment with people not travelling in your group. Simple food is available on the train but many people like to stock up on freshly baked bread, cheese and fruit prior to departure. Water should also be bought before the journey. Train journeys in Vietnam are an experience and allow you to get a real taste of Vietnam. Accommodation Hotels (2 night), sleeper bus (2 nights), homestay (1 night. Hotel * Please always check your hotel voucher for your stay in Hanoi AIRPORT TRANSFER If you have purchased an arrival through Friends Travel Vietnam or if an arrival transfer is included in the cost of your tour, please note that: Your arrival transfer has been arranged based on flight information provided to us. If you are advised of a flight schedule change within 48 hours of your scheduled arrival time, we will do our best to rearrange your arrival transfer however we cannot guarantee this. If your arrival transfer does not arrive within 30 minutes after you have exited the arrivals area please take a taxi to your start point hotel. Airport Pick up Instructions When arriving at Noi Bai International Airport in Hanoi you will be picked up by our driver. The airport is 35 km outside of the city and the drive should take between 40-50 minutes depending on traffic. WARNING - Please be wary of drivers and illegal taxi drivers. They will try and coax you away from the main airport taxi services and then charge a much increased price either in US Dollar or get you to change money into Vietnamese Dong before you understand the exchange rate and thus charge you at least twice the going rate. Your booking included airport pick- up, our driver will have your name details and you will recognize our logo and booking details. Unfortunately there have been cases in Vietnam of people misrepresenting themselves as Friends Travel Vietnam representatives at both Ha Noi and Ho Chi Minh airports. We recommend that you do not take advantage of any offers of "help" at the airport. Please check that your driver knows your name and the hotel you are going to. If in doubt ask them to ring us to confirm your transfer. If you are unable to locate our Friends Travel Vietnam’s representative, please wait up to 10 minutes, call our local staff on our emergency number and wait for further instructions. Code WFTV-011-6D | Itinerary 6 days & 5 nights | Real Experience Hanoi-Ninh Binh-Sapa 7|Page days & nights | Real Experience Hanoi-Ninh Binh-Sapa Arrival Complications We don't expect any problems, and nor should you, but if for any reason you are unable to commence your trip as scheduled, as soon as possible please contact your starting point hotel, requesting that you speak to or leave a message for us (if you are not on a group tour please refer to the emergency contact details provided in this dossier). If you are unable to get in touch with your leader, please refer to our emergency contact details. Emergency Contact Should you need to contact us during a situation of dire need, it is best to first call either the Friends Travel Vietnam Local Representative (if one is listed below) or our Friends Travel Vietnam Local Office. If for any reason you do not receive an immediate answer, please leave a detailed message and contact information, so they may return your call and assist you as soon as possible. What to Take What you need to bring depends on the trip you have chosen and the countries or regions you are planning to visit. We suggest that you pack as lightly as possible as your are expected to carry your own luggage. As a rule we try not to have to walk more than 15-20 minutes with your bags which is why we recommend keeping the weight of your bags between 15-20kg. Suitcases are not recommended for Friends Travel Vietnam trips! Most travellers carry a backpack or rolling bag of small to medium size (no XXL ones please!) as they need to fit under the beds when travelling on sleeper trains. You will also need a day pack/bag to carry water, cameras and other electronics like ipods and mobile phones. If your trip involves overnights in homestays, villages or camping then you usually have the opportunity to rent sleeping bags if need be instead of bringing them with you. Checklist Passport (with photocopies) Travel insurance (with photocopies) Airline tickets (with photocopies) USD cash (small denominations preferred) Credit or debit card (see personal spending money) Friends Travel Vietnam vouchers, predeparture information and dossier Any entry visas, additional passport photos or vaccination certificates required Alarm clock Flashlight Sun hat, sunblock, sunglasses Insect repellent Small towel and swim wear Toiletries (biodegradable) Sturdy walking shoes/sport sandals Money belt Shorts Long trousers Shirts/T-shirts Warm clothes for Nov-Feb. Hat, gloves, fleece, windproof/waterproof jacket Waterproof clothes for wet season MayOct. Umbrella or waterproof jacket Cover for backpack or plastic bags to keep clothes dry Clothes for temples – long pants or sarongs Camera and film Reading/writing material Binoculars First-aid kit (should contain lip salve, aspirin, band aids, anti-histamine, Imodium or similar tablets for mild cases of diarrhea, re-hydration powder, extra prescription drugs you may be taking) Code WFTV-011-6D | Itinerary 6 days & 5 nights | Real Experience Hanoi-Ninh Binh-Sapa 8|Page days & nights | Real Experience Hanoi-Ninh Binh-Sapa Laundry Laundry facilities are offered by some of our hotels for a charge. There will be times when you may want to or have to do your own laundry so we suggest you bring non-polluting/biodegradable soap. Visas Please note that visas for Vietnam, are the responsibility of the individual traveller. The visa requirements for your trip vary depending on where you are from and where you are going. For the most up to date information please check with us. It is important that you check for yourself VIETNAM - Visas for Vietnam need to be arranged ahead of time (before your trip) as the processing time varies. Vietnam Visas are not available at the border. Visas are not available on arrival at the airport unless arranged with us for a visa letter on arrival. Some nationalities don't require a Visa for Vietnam for shorter stays - please contact us for up to date entry/exit requirements. *Please have extra USD on hand in case the customs officials charge more at the border crossing. Please be aware that you will require 2 or 3 clean pages (minimum) in your passport and at least 6 months validity. Spending Money Every traveller is different and therefore spending money requirements will vary. Some travellers may drink more than others while other travellers like to purchase more souvenirs than most. Please consider your own spending habits when it comes to allowing for drinks, shopping and tipping. Please also remember the following specific recommendations when planning your trip. Money Exchange During this tour the local currency you will use is the Vietnamese Dong. As currency exchange rates in South East Asia do fluctuate, we ask that you refer to the following website for the most up to date daily exchange rates: www.xe.com for each of the above mentioned currencies. The best way to carry your money is in debit or credit cards, withdrawing cash in local currencies from ATM machines. ATMs are found throughout South East Asia and will generally accept cards on the Visa and Mastercard networks. It is a great idea to travel with both a Visa and Mastercard if at all possible in case of loss or problems with one card, you will have a back-up. Please note, your bank will charge a fee for overseas withdrawals. USD Cash is recommended for times when ATMs are not accessible. You should bring some cash with you for emergency situations (please refer to our trip dossier) but carrying only cash is a high safety risk. ATM card/s and some cash is the ideal mix. Travellers cheques can be tricky, timely and expensive to exchange. While we do not recommend that you bring them as your primary source of funds, it is great to have one or two cheques in case of emergency. Thomas Cook or American Express travellers' cheques in US currency are the easiest to exchange. Cash advances can also be made with some banks but are time consuming and tend to have high fees attached. Credit cards can be used at some upmarket restaurants, and at some larger stores if shopping for big items. If you are bringing US Dollars, please make sure that the notes are new and in good condition. Notes older than 2003, or with any tears or blemishes may not be accepted. Be fussy with your bank when buying cash! Emergency Fund Please also make sure you have access to at least an additional USD $250 (or equivalent) as an 'emergency' fund, to be used when circumstances outside our control (ex. a natural disaster) require a change to our planned route. This is a rare occurrence! Code WFTV-011-6D | Itinerary 6 days & 5 nights | Real Experience Hanoi-Ninh Binh-Sapa 9|Page days & nights | Real Experience Hanoi-Ninh Binh-Sapa Departure Tax Departure Tax is included in all International and Domestic tickets in Vietnam. Tipping It is customary in Asia to tip service providers such as waiters, at approximately 10%, depending on the service. Tipping is expected - though not compulsory - and shows an expression of satisfaction with the people who have assisted you on your tour. Although it may not be customary to you, it is of considerable significance to the people who will take care of you during your travels. There are several times during the trip where there is opportunity to tip the local guides or drivers we use. You may do this individually, or as a group. Recommendations for tipping drivers and local guides would range from $1.5-$3.5 USD per person per day depending on the quality and length of the service Also at the end of each trip if you felt your Friends Travel Vietnam’s Tour Guides did an outstanding job, tipping is appreciated. Optional Activities PERSONALIZE MY TRIP Our trip designers work very hard to assemble the life-altering experiences that fill this brochure. That said, our travellers are a diverse group driven by all sorts of different tastes, motivations and interests. What’s a trip designer to do? The solution? Extras! Specially designed for travellers with unique interests, Extras are optional add-ons to your Friends Travel Vietnam trip that make your adventure more you-centric. Extras must be booked prior to departure. Extras available on this trip: Hello Hanoi! Halong Bay 1 day Extension Discover North Vietnam The Hill Tribes of Northern Vietnam Discover Central Vietnam Ba Be Experience Discover South Vietnam Adventure Cave Experience Complete Holiday Packages Amazing Mekong Delta Experience Other Tour Around Vietnam Note: If the Extra is on the arrival or departure day we strongly recommend booking an additional night. Place to visit on our own Hoa Lo Prison- aka ‘Hanoi Hilton’ (Hanoi)- USD1 Museum of Ethnology (Hanoi)- USD1 plus transport +USD12 Temple of Literature (Hanoi)- USD1 Fine Arts Museum (Hanoi) - USD1 Women's Museum (Hanoi) - USD1 Army Museum (Hanoi)- USD2 Taxi to each museum - approx USD3 Cyclo tour (Hanoi- USD5 per hour Vietnamese massage (Hanoi) – USD8 per hour All prices are per person (unless stated otherwise), and are subject to change. Code WFTV-011-6D | Itinerary 6 days & 5 nights | Real Experience Hanoi-Ninh Binh-Sapa 10 | P a g e days & nights | Real Experience Hanoi-Ninh Binh-Sapa Health Please note inoculations may be required for the country visited. It is your responsibility to consult with your travel doctor for up to date medical travel information well before departure. You should consult your doctor for up-to-date medical travel information well before departure. We recommend that you carry a First Aid kit and hand sanitizers / antibacterial wipes as well as any personal medical requirements. Please be aware that sometimes we are in remote areas and away from medical facilities, and for legal reasons our leaders are prohibited from administering any type of drug including headache tablets, antibiotics, etc. In Asia pharmacies tend to stock the same western drugs as you get at home but they are usually produced locally so please bring the full drug name with you when trying to purchase a prescription drug. When selecting your trip please carefully read the brochure and itinerary and assess your ability to cope with our style of travel. Please refer to the Physical and Culture Shock ratings for trip specific information. Friends Travel Vietnam reserves the right to exclude any traveller from all or part of a trip without refund if in the reasonable opinion of our GL they are unable to complete the itinerary without undue risk to themselves and/or the rest of the group. Trip Specific Safety We strongly recommend the use of a neck wallet or money belt while travelling, for the safe keeping of your passport, air tickets, travellers' cheques (only changeable at the banks), cash and other valuable items. Leave your valuable jewelry at home - you won't need it while travelling. Many of the hotels we use have safety deposit boxes which are the most secure way of storing your valuables. A lock is recommended for securing your luggage. Be aware that petty theft can be an issue in some Vietnamese towns and cities especially late at night. A common tactic is opportunists on motorbikes that drive by and snatch bags. Please always leave valuables and passports etc in your hotel, in safety boxes if available, and only carry with you enough cash to spend for the day. Bags should always be carried over the neck and not left to sit on your shoulder. Protests and Demonstrations- Protests and demonstrations, even those that are well intended, have the potential to turn violent with no warning. Counter protests can also turn violent. Action by security forces to disperse demonstrators and protesters may occur at any time. If you are in an area where demonstrators or protesters are gathering, avoid the temptation of staying for a good photo opportunity and leave the area immediately. This is a rare occurrence! Water based activities have an element of danger and excitement built into them. We recommend only participating in water based activities when accompanied by a guide(s). We make every reasonable effort to ensure the fun and adventurous element of any water based activities has a balanced approach to safety. It is our policy not to allow our tour guides to make arrangements on your behalf for water based activities that are not accompanied by professional guided guides. Swimming, is always at your own risk. We take all prudent measures in relation to your safety. Code WFTV-011-6D | Itinerary 6 days & 5 nights | Real Experience Hanoi-Ninh Binh-Sapa 11 | P a g e days & nights | Real Experience Hanoi-Ninh Binh-Sapa Medical Form Our small group adventures bring together people of all ages. It is very important you are aware that, as a minimum, an average level of fitness and mobility' is required to undertake our easiest programs. Travellers must be able to walk without the aid of another person, climb 3-4 flights of stairs, step on and off small boats, and carry their own luggage at a minimum. Travellers with a pre-existing medical condition are required to complete a short medical questionnaire, which must be signed by their physician. This is to ensure that travellers have the necessary fitness and mobility to comfortably complete their chosen trip. While our GLs work hard to ensure that all our travellers are catered for equally, it is not their responsibility to help individuals who cannot complete the day's activities unaided. Please refer to the physical ratings in this Trip A Couple of Rules Illegal drugs will not be tolerated on any trips. Possessing or using drugs not only contravenes the laws of the land but also puts the rest of the group at risk. Smoking marijuana and opium is a part of local culture in some parts of the world but is not acceptable for our travellers. Our philosophy of travel is one of respect towards everyone we encounter, and in particular the local people who make the world the special place it is. The exploitation of prostitutes is completely contrary to this philosophy. Our GLs have the right to expel any member of the group if drugs are found in their possession or if they use prostitutes. A Word of Warning As Vietnam embraces capitalism with open arms it is also falling victim to some of the problems of the West. Some parts of city centres are now a favorite hangout for pickpockets. If doing some exploring on your own carry only the necessary minimum with you and use a well-hidden money belt. Valuables, including your passport, should be left in the hotel safe - organize this at reception. There is no need to get paranoid, just be cautious. Please do not buy gems in Vietnam unless you know what you are doing. Even if genuine you should not expect to be able to sell them at home. If you fall victim to a gem scam, we are unable to assist you. Code WFTV-011-6D | Itinerary 6 days & 5 nights | Real Experience Hanoi-Ninh Binh-Sapa 12 | P a g e days & nights | Real Experience Hanoi-Ninh Binh-Sapa Travel Insurance Travel insurance is compulsory in order to participate on any of our trips. When travelling on a group trip, you will not be permitted to join the group until evidence of travel insurance has been sighted by our online sales department, who will take note of your insurance details. When selecting a travel insurance policy please bear in mind that all clients must have medical coverage and that we require a minimum coverage of USD 200,000 for repatriation and emergency rescue. We strongly recommend that the policy also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage and personal effects. If you have credit card insurance we require proof of purchase of the trip (a receipt of credit card statement) with a credit card in your name. Contact your bank for details of their participating insurer, the level of coverage and emergency contact telephone number. Local Dress In Vietnam the dress standard is more conservative than it is back home. When packing try to pick loose, lightweight, long clothing that will keep you cool in the usually hot and humid climate. We ask that you dress respectfully and avoid very short shorts/skirts and singlets/tanktops when visiting temples, pagodas or other holy sites. Payment Policy: Full payment is required by credit card via our website or via bank transfer 21 days before departure. Currency Exchange Rates Friends Travel Vietnam actively manages currency risks associated with a weakening US dollar. Unlike most other travel companies, we insulate our guests from exchange rate risk by locking in the trip cost at the time of booking. In other words, no currency supplements will be assessed should the dollar decline prior to your departure. Cancellations and Refunds If you must cancel your trip (or any portion thereof), a cancellation charge will apply; refunds depend on the timing of the cancellation. Friends Travel Vietnam cannot refund you for any unused accommodations, services, or features. For more details, please see the terms and conditions for this trip, along with the Limitation of Liability agreement in your pre-departure packet. En-Route Flights and Stopovers: Travel to Vietnam/from Your Halong Bay - Sapa Experience Trip Our trip cost does not include transportation between your home city and the Halong Bay - Sapa Experience trip (starting in Hanoi and ending in Hanoi). We encourage you to take advantage of Friends Travel Vietnam’s complimentary, full-service, in-house, air-ticketing department, whose staff comes with decades of experience arranging complex travel to remote destinations. Not only do we offer professional travel planning consultation, particularly helpful in the event of delayed or canceled flights. We’ll make every effort to secure the best possible fare and routing for you. (Unfortunately we cannot initiate frequent flyer bookings, but we are able to assist you with frequent flyer ticketing upgrades.) Reserving early is the key to securing the airlines, routings, seating, and departure times you desire. Feel free to contact us with questions about routings, fares, and even trip extensions—we’re happy to assist you with these arrangements as well. If you have pre- and post-trip extension plans, please notify us immediately. If you are booking your own air travel, it is essential that you give us your flight schedule at least 30 days prior to your departure so that we may confirm your arrival and departure hotels. Code WFTV-011-6D | Itinerary 6 days & 5 nights | Real Experience Hanoi-Ninh Binh-Sapa 13 | P a g e days & nights | Real Experience Hanoi-Ninh Binh-Sapa Important Note on the Itinerary While we endeavor to make the itinerary as accurate as possible, it should be considered an approximate schedule of activities rather than a rigid schedule of events. We are constantly looking for ways to improve our trips, and advance reconnaissance may present opportunities for superior routing or activities with minimal advance notice. Trip itineraries are also subject to revision due to weather, road and trail conditions, government restrictions, and other factors beyond our control. Pre-departure | Vietnam Handbook After signing up for a trip, you will receive a detailed Handbook of Vietnam with information on health and safety, travel documents, recommended clothing, background information, and suggested reading specific to your destination and others Trip Grade/Comfort Level Moderate touring with moderate day hikes through some remote areas with limited tourist infrastructure. There are 2 days of hiking incorporated into the itinerary. Hiking is at altitudes less than 1450 meters and range in lengths of 5-7 hours with some moderate ascents, following dirt paths, sometimes through rice paddy fields and valleys. Hikes may involve some muddy paths and slippery rocks, so hiking boots with ankle support and good treads are recommended. To enjoy day hikes to the fullest, participants should be in good physical condition Drives might be along mostly paved roads, although a few are still bumpy dirt roads. Your hotel in Hanoi is quite luxurious, however in Ta Van you’re staying 1 night in a basic simple local homestay with Hmong family which will be basic with mattresses on the floor. Linens, blankets and mosquito netting will be provided. Toilets and hot water are available. Be prepared however to encounter odd plumbing, an occasional power outage, and varying, though pleasant service. Private house option for the choice of Deluxe or Luxury has all basics necessaries. Participants should be aware that while part of the joy of traveling off the beaten path in an developed region such as Sapa in northern Vietnam is its special quality of seclusion, however travelers’ amenities may be rustic or sparse. Feedback After your travels, we want to hear from you! Your feedback information is so important to us that we'll give you 5% off the price of your next Friends Travel Vietnam trip if your feedback is completed on-line within 30 days of finishing your trip. Your tour evaluation will be e-mailed to you 24 hours after the conclusion of your trip. If you do not receive the tour evaluation link in the days after your tour has finished, please drop us a line at [email protected] and we will send it on to you. Check our TripAdvisor Reviews http://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g293924-d6732725-ReviewsFriends_Travel_Vietnam_Day_Tours-Hanoi.html Newsletter Our Friends Travel Vietnam adventure travel e-newsletter is full of travel news, trip information, interesting stories and contests. To avoid missing out on special offers and updates from Friends Travel Vietnam, subscribe at [email protected] Code WFTV-011-6D | Itinerary 6 days & 5 nights | Real Experience Hanoi-Ninh Binh-Sapa 14 | P a g e days & nights | Real Experience Hanoi-Ninh Binh-Sapa EMERGENCY CONTACT NUMBERS 24/7 Friends Travel Vietnam During Office hours (Weekdays & weekends, 9am-5pm Local Time) From outside Vietnam: +84(0)43-999-68-11 From within Vietnam: 043-999-68-11 After hours emergency number From outside Vietnam: +84(0)43-999-68-11 | +84(0) 904-329-289 | +84(0)934-542-703 From within Vietnam: 0944-017-090 If you are unable for any reason to contact our local office, please mail listed below. [email protected] | [email protected] | [email protected] Booking Office: Address: 2 Hang Buom street, District Hoan kiem [Old Quarter], Hanoi, Vietnam Phone 24/7: +84(0)43-999-68-11 Fax: +84(0)436-473-296 Our opening hours from 8 AM till 8 PM, UTC/GMT +7 hours Mobile Mr. Sidney: +84(0) 904-329-289 Email: [email protected] Mobile Mr. Eric: +84(0)934-542-703 Email: [email protected] Mobile Ms. Thao +84(0)944-017-090 Email: [email protected] Other emails Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] Website: www.friendstravelvietnam.com Head Office: Address: No 29, Quynh Lan 2, Vinh Quynh, Thanh Tri, Hanoi Phone: +84(0)436-473-295 Fax: +84(0)436-473-296 Email: [email protected] Friends Travel TM Company Limited Business License No.: 0105925933 Issued by The Planning and Investment Department of Hanoi City International Tour Operator License: 01-646/2014/TCDL-GP LHQT Issued by Vietnam National Administration of Tourism Note: to visit the head office only works on appointments for all contacts please visit our booking office Code WFTV-011-6D | Itinerary 6 days & 5 nights | Real Experience Hanoi-Ninh Binh-Sapa 15 | P a g e
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