Essential Information
True Asia Travel – Welcome to Vietnam!
We are delighted to have you on this journey with us. Please read the following instructions carefully to ensure a smooth arrival and departure.
INSTRUCTION
ARRIVAL IN VIETNAM
Meeting Point
Upon arrival and after completing immigration, baggage claim, and customs, please proceed to the exit gate of the terminal.
Our representative will meet you at the designated airport exit gate (sometimes near a numbered column), holding a welcome sign with your name clearly written on it.
By Airport:
Noi Bai (Hanoi): International Terminal T2, Exit Gates A4 or A5 (Level 1).
Da Nang: International Terminal, Arrival Hall Gate 2.
Tan Son Nhat (Ho Chi Minh City): International Terminal, Gate 10.
If You Cannot Find Us
Stay inside the arrival hall and call our hotline (see below).
If your flight is delayed, cancelled, or changed, or you are significantly delayed at immigration, customs, or baggage claim, please inform us immediately.
Taxi Option (if needed)
Noi Bai (Hanoi): Official metered taxis are outside Exit Gates A4 & A5, Level 1. Noi Bai Taxi (+84 4 3886 8888), fare ~ US$18 / VND 350,000 to city center.
Da Nang: Airport taxis available outside arrivals, fare ~ US$8 / VND 180,000 to city center.
Tan Son Nhat (HCMC): Use Vinasun Taxi (+84 28 3827 2727) or Mai Linh Taxi (+84 28 3838 3838), fare ~ US$10–12 / VND 250,000–300,000 to city center.
⚠ Avoid taxi touts inside the terminal.
Hotel Check-In
Check-in: After 14:00
DEPARTURE FROM VIETNAM
Hotel Pick-Up
Departure transfers are available only if booked with your tour.
Please confirm pick-up time & meeting point with your group leader or True Asia Travel staff 1 day before departure.
Pick-up is generally 3 hours before international flights and 2 hours before domestic flights, depending on traffic.
Taxi Option (if no transfer booked)
Hanoi to Noi Bai: ~ US$10 / VND 200,000, ~45 minutes.
Da Nang Airport: ~ US$8 / VND 180,000, ~15 minutes from city center.
HCMC to Tan Son Nhat: ~ US$10–12 / VND 250,000–300,000, ~30–45 minutes.
Hotel Check-Out
Check-out: By 12:00 noon.
Late departures may arrange luggage storage with the hotel.
Emergency Contact
📞 True Asia Travel Hotline: +84 969 892 951
Notes:
For all airport transfers with True Asia Travel, we will send you the contact details of your driver or guide (if applicable) approximately 2 hours before departure for domestic flights and 3 hours before departure for international flights. Please keep your phone accessible to receive this information.
Our drivers may not speak English fluently, but they will always be holding a welcome sign with your name at the designated meeting point. If you do not have internet access, simply look for your name on the sign and confirm the booking details before boarding to ensure you are getting into the correct vehicle.
Problems and Emergency Contact Information
While we always endeavour to provide the best possible holiday experience, due to the nature of travel and the areas we visit, sometimes things can and do go wrong. Should any issue occur while you are on your trip, it is important that you discuss this with your group leader or local representative immediately, so they can do their best to resolve the problem and minimise any negative impact on the rest of your trip.
If your group leader or local representative is unable to resolve the situation to your satisfaction, please request that they contact their direct manager.
You may also choose to provide details in your online feedback, which we ask you to complete within 30 days of the end of your trip. Please note that it is very difficult for us to provide any practical assistance after your trip is completed, so informing us while still travelling will give us the best chance to resolve the issue in real time.
For general contact details, please visit: https://www.intrepidtravel.com/contact-us
In case of a genuine crisis or emergency, you can reach our local office on the number below:
True Asia Travel operator – Available by phone at +84 969 892 951
Itinerary Disclaimer
1. Itinerary Changes
We regularly review and update our itineraries based on guest feedback and current conditions in each destination. This means the details in your Essential Trip Information may differ from when you first booked. Please ensure you review the latest version before travelling.
Once on the trip, your itinerary may still change due to factors such as weather, local events, transport schedules, public holidays, or unforeseen situations. Your group leader or local representative will keep you informed and has the authority to amend or cancel any part of the itinerary if safety or operational concerns arise.
2. Optional Activities
A selection of popular optional activities is listed in the day-to-day itinerary for your reference. This list is not exhaustive and prices are approximate (entrance fees only, unless stated otherwise). Transport, local guides, or other costs are usually not included.
Activities are subject to availability and may be on a join-in basis.
It may not be possible to do everything listed, so we recommend planning your top choices in advance.
If pre-booking is recommended, you’ll find a note in the Special Information section.
For most activities, you can organise them independently on the day or let your group leader/local representative know at the Welcome Meeting and they can assist.
We only recommend operators for medium- and high-risk activities whose safety standards we have reviewed. While you might find cheaper options locally, we cannot guarantee their safety or quality. Medium- and high-risk activities not listed in this document have not been assessed by us, and our staff will not be able to help arrange them. Activities that go against our Responsible Travel policies will not be listed.
Important: Any activity not listed here is undertaken at your own discretion and risk.
Passport
You’ll need a valid passport to travel internationally and most countries require your passport to have a minimum of 6 months validity, so remember to check the expiry date.
We need your passport information to get everything ready for your trip so it’s important that the information on your booking matches your passport exactly. Please take care to provide the correct details. We recommend carrying a copy of the photo page of your passport while travelling and leaving a copy at home with family or friends.
Visa
Visas & Entry Requirements
Many countries require a visa and obtaining the correct visa for your trip and any countries you may transit through is your responsibility. We recommend you check your visa requirements as soon as you have booked your trip. This will ensure you have time to prepare your documents and for your visa application to be processed. You can check the entry requirements for your nationality on your government’s foreign travel advisories, consular websites or on our page here:
http://www.intrepidtravel.com/visa-entry-requirements
Address for Vietnam Visa Applications:
True Asia Travel Vietnam
3rd Floor, SDU Tower
143 Tran Phu
Ha Dong District, Hanoi, Vietnam
Ph +84 969 892 951
Medical and Health Information
General Health
All travellers need to be in good physical health in order to participate fully on this trip. For the safety and wellbeing of yourself and others, if you are unwell prior to travelling, please stay at home and contact us to make alternative arrangements.
All travellers need to be in good physical health in order to participate fully on this trip. For the safety and wellbeing of yourself and others, if you are unwell prior to travelling, please stay at home and contact us to make alternative arrangements.
When selecting your trip please make sure you have read through the itinerary carefully and assess your ability to manage and enjoy our style of travel. Please note that if in the assessment of our group leader or local representative a traveller is unable to complete the itinerary without undue risk to themselves and/or the rest of the group, we reserve the right to exclude them from all or part of a trip without refund.
You should consult your doctor for up-to-date medical travel information or for any necessary vaccinations before departure. We recommend that you carry a first aid kit as well as any personal medical requirements in their original packaging as they may not easily be obtained while travelling. If you are carrying medication, ensure you check your government’s foreign travel advice for any local restrictions or requirements.
Mosquito-borne diseases
Mosquito-borne diseases such as dengue fever and Japanese encephalitis are widespread in South East Asia. Malaria is also prevalent in some regions, particularly along the borders in mountainous regions. Take preventative measures such as wearing long clothing, using repellent and being indoors particularly around dusk and dawn. Seek medical advice prior to travel for medication or vaccination advice.
Food and Dietary Requirements
While Travelling
While travelling with us you’ll experience the vast array of wonderful food available in the world. Your group leader or local representative will be able to suggest restaurants to try during your trip. To give you the maximum flexibility in deciding where, what and with whom to eat, generally not all meals are included in the trip price. This also gives you more budgeting flexibility. As a rule, our groups tend to eat together to enable you to taste a larger variety of dishes and enjoy each other’s company. If you have dietary requirements and/or food allergies, please let us know prior to departure.
Included Breakfasts
At hotels you’ll often have a buffet with choices of Vietnamese and Western food. At homestays you will have more basic breakfasts of local foods, eggs, bread, jam, tea and coffee. Take away breakfasts for early starts may be very simple such as a piece of fruit and a bread roll.
Dietary Requirements
Guide to eating in Vietnam for vegan, vegetarian, gluten & peanut free travellers:
https://www.trueasiatravel.com/adventures/vegan-vegetarian-gluten-free-vietnam/
Food Allergies
Travelling in South East Asia with a food allergy?
https://www.trueasiatravel.com/adventures/travelling-food-allergies-south-east-asia/
Accommodation
Hotels
Most accommodations on this trip are centrally located 3-star hotels, chosen for your convenience and easy access to local attractions, restaurants, and transport. Facilities are generally simple but comfortable. Rooms are air-conditioned and typically twin-share with private facilities, unless stated otherwise in the daily itinerary. Double beds can usually be arranged upon request, subject to availability. If you prefer to upgrade to 4-star or 5-star accommodation, please advise us in advance so we can check availability and provide a quotation. As centrally located hotels tend to book out early, especially during peak travel seasons, we recommend confirming your booking as soon as possible.
Windowless Rooms
Some hotels in South East Asia may have rooms without windows, or with windows that do not provide an outside view. This is often due to high population density in major cities and local building regulations that do not require windows. While we request rooms with windows, availability is not guaranteed.
Room sizes in major cities such as Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City are often smaller than elsewhere due to limited land area and high population density. Please keep this in mind so you can adjust your expectations accordingly.
Day Rooms, Early Check-In & Late Check-Out
At some destinations, we provide day rooms for shared group use before or after overnight train journeys. On certain days, if the group arrives before the official check-in time, day rooms may not be available. Please note that if you have booked a Single Supplement, it does not cover day room use.
If you require early check-in or late check-out, please inform your travel consultant well in advance. These requests depend on hotel availability and may involve additional charges. Your travel consultant can assist you with these arrangements.
Transportation
Flights
Please note that international and domestic flights are generally not included in the land tour package price. You may book your flights independently online or through True Asia Travel for assistance. Flight prices are subject to change frequently and can only be confirmed at the time of ticket issuance.
Please provide your exact name (including middle name) as per passport for flight tickets to be issued. Internal flights will be on the following safety audited airlines: Pacific Airlines, Vietjet or Vietnam Airlines.
For internal flights, checked luggage allowance is up to 20 kg, and carry-on luggage allowance is up to 7 kg. Any excess baggage fees must be paid directly to the airline at check-in.
Flight Tickets and Fare Conditions
Please note that most flight tickets issued are economy class fares. These tickets often have restrictions such as non-refundable and non-changeable policies. We recommend that you carefully review the fare conditions when booking your flights to avoid any unexpected fees.
Overnight sleeper train in Vietnam
Compartments will be 4 berth to 6 berth depending on seasonal variations and the group configuration. We aim to secure 4 berth compartments where possible. A sheet, pillow and blanket are provided, although some travellers prefer to bring their own sleeping sheet. Passengers of different genders may be required to share a compartment and there will be occasions where you’ll be sharing with local travellers or travellers who are not part of your group. On occasion the group may be split between several carriages, however your leader will coordinate and give further information on the trip.
Compartments will be 4 berth to 6 berth depending on seasonal variations and the group configuration. We aim to secure 4 berth compartments where possible. A sheet, pillow and blanket are provided, although some travellers prefer to bring their own sleeping sheet. Passengers of different genders may be required to share a compartment and there will be occasions where you’ll be sharing with local travellers or travellers who are not part of your group. On occasion the group may be split between several carriages, however your leader will coordinate and give further information on the trip.
Money matters
Spending money
Each traveller’s spending habits vary, so please budget accordingly for optional meals, drinks, shopping, optional activities, and laundry. Review the itinerary and inclusions carefully so you know what is covered in the trip price and what expenses you may need to pay during your journey.
Meals Not Included
We recommend setting aside approximately USD 200 for meals not included in the tour package.
Vietnam
Credit and debit cards can be used at ATMs widely available throughout Vietnam, dispensing cash in Vietnamese Dong (VND). However, small purchases usually require cash, so carry sufficient VND in small, clean denominations for daily expenses.
Tipping
Tipping is a customary way to acknowledge excellent service in many destinations. Although it may not be customary in your home country, it is appreciated by those who assist you during your travels. Avoid tipping with coins, very small notes, or damaged currency as this may be seen as disrespectful rather than generous.
Optional tipping kitty
If you feel your leader provided outstanding service, tipping is appreciated but entirely voluntary. A guideline is USD/EUR 4-7 per traveller per day, depending on service quality and involvement.
Contingency Funds
We try to plan for every eventuality, but there are still some things beyond our control. We reserve the right to change an itinerary after departure due to local circumstances or a Force Majeure Event. In such emergency circumstances, the additional cost of any necessary itinerary alterations will be covered by you. Please note we are not responsible for any incidental expenses that may be incurred as a result of the change of itineraries including but not limited to visas, vaccinations or non-refundable flights. Make sure you have access to an extra US$500 for emergencies (e.g. severe weather, natural disasters, civil unrest) or other events that result in unavoidable changes to the itinerary (e.g. transport strikes or cancellations, airport closures). Sometimes these things necessitate last-minute changes to enable our trips to continue to run, and as a result, there may be some extra costs involved. The recommended amount is listed in USD for the relatability of universal travellers, however, local currency may be needed once in the country to cover these costs.
Packing
Most travellers prefer to bring a small to medium wheeled suitcase, which fits well within the luggage capacity of our private vehicles. Whatever luggage you choose, please remember you will need to carry it yourself, manage it at airports, and take it in and out of accommodations, sometimes over short walking distances. We recommend packing as lightly as possible.
If your trip involves overnight trains or mainly public transport, smaller luggage will be easier to store under or above the bunks. Large suitcases may not be allowed on board. A lockable bag or small padlock is useful, especially when using public transportation.
For daytime exploring, a day pack or small bag is essential to carry water, a camera, a jacket, and activity-specific items like swimwear, a waterproof pouch for your phone, or hiking shoes.
For a full list of recommended items, please visit:
Local dress
When packing, please be aware that dress standards in Asia are generally conservative, especially outside major cities. To show respect and for your own comfort, we strongly recommend wearing modest clothing that covers your shoulders and knees. Loose, lightweight, and long garments are ideal as they are both respectful and comfortable in the predominantly hot Asian climate.
In many rural areas, women may need to wear modest clothing even when swimming. Singlets, tank tops, and topless sunbathing are considered inappropriate. When visiting religious sites, men are often required to wear long trousers, and women should wear a long skirt or sarong.
Climate and seasonal information
Tet holiday
25 January – 2 February 2025, 16 – 20 February 2026
Tet is Vietnam’s New Year festival, held in late January or early February following the lunar calendar, and is the most important celebration of the year. This is a unique and colourful time to be in Vietnam, with vibrant decorations, festive food, and joyful family reunions everywhere.
However, please keep in mind that this is also the busiest travel period of the year. While this can be a fascinating time to be in Vietnam, you should be prepared for some businesses to close, tourist sites to be extremely busy, and transport to be packed as many Vietnamese travel across the country to reunite with their families. Occasionally, flights and overnight trains may be replaced with day buses due to ticket shortages. At popular attractions, longer queues than usual are common, and in some cases you may wait for hours at ticket gates before entry. Prices may also be higher than normal due to holiday surcharges.
We will do our best to follow the planned itinerary and keep you informed of any adjustments in advance so you can enjoy a smooth and memorable Tet holiday experience.
Weather in Vietnam
The most popular times to visit Vietnam are spring (February-April) and autumn (September-December) but because of the huge variations in latitude and altitude, there is no one best time to go to Vietnam. Temperatures vary from 4°C (39°F) in Sapa in winter to humid 36°C (97°F) days in Saigon in the middle of the dry season. The monsoons bring heavy rain to the south, and a cooler winter to the north. It’s a good destination all year.
Wet season
Flooding is common across Vietnam during rainy season (June-December) and could also lead to landslides. Typhoons are also common during this period. During these months there may be disruptions to transport and some activities or destinations may need to be changed as a result at short notice.
Group Leader/ Tour Guide
All group trips are accompanied by a local representative or tour guide. Their role is to make your travel experience smooth and enjoyable, helping you get the most out of your trip. True Asia Travel strives to provide experienced group leaders or local representatives; however, due to seasonal fluctuations in travel, there may be rare occasions when your leader is new to the region or is training others.
Your group leader or local representative will share information about the places you visit, suggest activities and sights, recommend excellent local restaurants, and introduce you to local people. They have broad knowledge of the destinations, including historical, cultural, religious, and social aspects.
At True Asia Travel, we support local guides who have specialized knowledge of the areas we explore. If you want a deeper cultural experience at a particular site, your group leader can recommend local guide services at most main destinations on your trip.
Safety
TRAVEL ADVISORIES & ALERTS
We recommend that you check your government’s foreign travel advisory for the latest information about the destination before you travel. You will also need to ensure that your travel insurance covers you for all destinations and activities on your trip. We also recommend saving the phone number for emergency consular assistance for your government’s consulate in the destination/s you’ll be travelling. Links to travel advisories and any current travel alerts for our trips can be found here: https://www.trueasiatravel.com/travel-alerts
PERSONAL SAFETY
Ensure you have a secure method of carrying your passport, phone, credit cards and cash while travelling such as a money belt. Leave all other high value items, including jewellery, at home Use safety deposit boxes at hotels to store your valuables when available and ensure your luggage is lockable. Be aware of the risk of pick-pocketing and petty theft. Exercise caution when walking at night, don’t walk alone and stick to well-lit streets wherever possible. Be vigilant on public transport and look out for your fellow travellers. Take precautions such as carrying your bag in front of you and never leaving personal items unattended.
FIRE PRECAUTIONS:
Please be aware that local laws governing tourism facilities in this region differ from those in your home country and not all the accommodation which we use has a fire exit, fire extinguishers or smoke alarms.
SEAT BELTS:
Please be aware that local laws governing transportation safety may differ from those in your home country and not all the transport which we use is able to provide seat belts.
PETTY THEFT AND PERSONAL SAFETY:
While travelling there is always the risk of pick-pocketing and petty theft, particularly in the more touristy cities. We recommend that you exercise caution when walking alone at night and encourage you to walk together and only on main, well-lit thoroughfares. Be particularly vigilant on public transport. Simple measures like carrying your day pack on your front, not hanging your bag over the back of your chair or on the floor and wearing a money belt will reduce any chance that your valuables should go missing.
MOTORBIKE BAG SNATCHING:
Be particularly aware of motorbike bag snatching, especially in the bigger cities.
Community Guidelines
True Asia Travel will not tolerate any form of violence, harassment (physical, verbal, or sexual), or disrespect toward fellow travellers, our teams, or local communities.
To ensure the wellbeing of everyone on the trip, decisions made by your group leader/ tour guide are final and must be respected.
Romantic relationships between travellers and group leaders/ tour guides or local representatives are not permitted during the trip.
Any behaviour that prevents your group leader from continuing the itinerary as planned, breaks local laws, or violates these guidelines may result in Intrepid denying your booking or removing you from the trip.
If something concerns you during your travels, please speak to your group leader immediately. Alternatively, you may contact us on the emergency number provided in the Problems and Emergency Contact Information section of this Essential Trip Information.
Travelling on a group trip
Travelling on a group trip
As you travel on a group trip you will be exposed to all the pleasures and maybe some of the frustrations of travelling in a group. Your fellow travellers will probably come from all corners of the world and likely a range of age groups too. We ask you to be understanding of the various needs and preferences of your group – patience with your fellow travellers is sometimes required for the benefit of everyone’s travel experience. Remember too that you have responsibilities to the group. If you are requested to be at a place at a certain time, ensure that you don’t keep the rest of the group waiting. We have found time and time again that the very best trips we operate are those where the dynamics within the group work well – this takes just a little effort on your part. Due to privacy reasons, we are unable to provide you with contact details and any personal information about your fellow travellers booked on your trip prior to departure.
SOLO TRAVELLERS
On our trips, rooming is organised on a twin-share basis.
We also offer an optional single supplement on most trips for travellers who prefer to have their own room. This only applies to accommodation during the tour. Pre-trip and post-trip accommodation booked through us will always be on a single-room basis.
On a small selection of trips some accommodation will be open-gender and multishare, such as a felucca in Egypt or an overnight train in Vietnam. Please review the Accommodation section of the Essential Trip Information for details about your trip.
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Travel Insurance (Recommended)
We strongly recommend all travellers purchase comprehensive travel insurance before the trip. Your policy should cover medical expenses, emergency repatriation, personal liability, trip cancellation or curtailment, and loss of luggage or personal belongings.
Having travel insurance will help you travel with peace of mind and be prepared for unexpected events.
You may purchase insurance independently through any provider, or request assistance from True Asia Travel. Please ensure your policy includes coverage for specific activities featured in your tour, such as riding as a passenger on a motorbike. The motorbikes used are 125cc or less.
True Asia Travel accepts no liability for costs incurred due to insufficient or absent insurance coverage.
If you require advice or support regarding travel insurance, please contact us.
Responsible Travel
At True Asia Travel, we are committed to promoting responsible and sustainable tourism.
We encourage travellers to explore and support responsible travel practices during their journeys. For more information on responsible tourism, please visit:
https://www.trueasiatravel.com/responsible-travel
The True Asia Foundation
True Asia Travel is committed to giving back to the communities and making a positive impact in the places we visit. We donate a portion of our profits to The True Asia Foundation, which supports education and provides better opportunities for disadvantaged children in Vietnam and the wider region.
If you would like to make an additional donation to support our cause, you are warmly welcome to do so. All contributions are voluntary and help us create a greater positive impact together.
We commit to providing annual updates on the impact of these contributions, including photos and reports, to those who express interest and subscribe to our newsletter.