Money
Can I use a credit card to get cash in Vietnam?
Yes, but it gets more difficult the further you are from the cities. Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City and other centers have ATMs that accept the main cards, but only dispense local currency. Be warned that all credit card transactions in Vietnam are subject to a 3% surcharge (3.9% for Amex).
Can I pay by credit card in Vietnam?
Yes, but only in a few places. In cities, large hotels, international restaurants and some souvenir shops take Visa or MasterCard, but it is not wise to rely upon it as a method of payment.
What about travelers’ cheques?
Travelers’ cheques and cash in any international currency can be changed at all major banks. Some hotels will accept travelers’ cheques.
What are the levels of commission for changing money in Vietnam?
All credit card transactions in Vietnam are subject to a surcharge. Charges for other transactions vary: we will supply full details on request. There is no commission on exchanging ‘hard’ currency.
Where can I change my currency for local currency?
At the airport, in banks, or in shops licensed to sell gold - exchange rates are very similar. Steer clear of street moneychangers - the exchange rate will be no better, and being given forged notes is a risk.
What if I have a lot of local currency left over when I leave?
You can change local currency back to the currency you entered with by showing the yellow customs slip that you were given on arrival. The amount you take out must be less than the original amount you brought in.
Health
What is the main difference in the climate of Vietnam and that of my country?
Vietnam is both hot and humid. Combined, they make visitors from temperate countries sweat profusely. Drinking plenty of water and good sun protection is essential. Winter in Hanoi (January to March) and the rest of the northern area can be cold. The chilling effect is made worse by a damp, clammy atmosphere.
What can I do about jet lag?
Not much, really. A stop-over en-route or a rest day on arrival helps. It’s important to try to sleep and wake according to local time, even on the aero plane.
What will happen if there is an emergency?
With One World, your guide will always have a mobile ‘phone and a means of summoning immediate assistance. You will also have direct telephone access to One World Head office.
How will medical emergencies be dealt with?
You will be taken to the nearest international clinic or hospital for an immediate examination and appropriate treatment according to the terms of your insurance.
What if I am hospitalized or become incapacitated?
If you have supplied us with the details of your insurance, we will contact the company on your behalf and assist in any way we can.
What should we do about malaria?
If you wish, we will ask a trustworthy local international medical practice to provide an up-to-date report and recommendations.
Getting Around
Can I travel freely in Vietnam?
Up to a point. A few areas are closed for security reasons, and others require a permit. If you travel with One World, we will complete all necessary paperwork and permission procedures on your behalf.
Can I ride a motorbike in Vietnam?
Officially, not without a Vietnamese license. An international license is not acceptable as a substitute. The police generally turn a blind eye to foreigners, but not always!
Can I hire a motorbike?
Yes, easily. However, few come with official papers, which can result in an on-the-spot fine. As they are not insured, you will be liable to pay for any damage or theft.
Is it safe to ride a motorcycle in Vietnam?
The short answer is no! 80% of the 20,000 or so serious traffic accidents per year in Vietnam are caused by, or involve, motorcyclists. Roads are bad, and regulations are often ignored.
Can I get a license to drive in Vietnam?
Not easily. An international driving license can be converted, but the document must be translated and notarized, a protracted procedure.
Can I drive a car in Vietnam?
With a Vietnamese license, or a converted international license, yes. However, there are no car rental agencies. Advertisements for car rental mean a car and a driver.
Food and Drink
I am restricted to a special diet. How will I cope in Vietnam?
If travel with One World, and give us details of your diet, we will instruct all the hotels and restaurants in the itinerary to provide the correct food. Your guide will also be fully briefed.
I am a vegetarian. What are the options for me?
Despite being a Buddhist country, Vietnam is short of vegetarian restaurants. However, there are a few in the larger cities, and it’s quite easy to find good vegetable meals. The fruit is excellent!
General
Can I make changes to my itinerary after I arrive?
Yes, as long as it’s possible. We will give you a quotation and issue a receipt or refund as appropriate. We consider minor changes involving minimal or no costs as part of the service and make no charge in such circumstances.
Are there any restrictions on photography in Vietnam?
Yes. Photography in or near military installations, airports or similar locations is prohibited. Anyone caught doing taking photographs in restricted areas will have the film, and possibly the camera or camcorder, confiscated, and may be arrested.
Can I buy antiques in Vietnam?
A qualified yes, providing it is less than a hundred years old. However, exporting an artifact that was made within the last century is not straightforward. There are experts on hand at the airport to verify the age of antiques, but the quality of fakes is very high, so anything that looks old is liable to be confiscated.
How can I take large items home with me – furniture or paintings, for example?
We are also registered for export and import activities. We will give you an ‘at cost’ quotation, and arrange for the items to be properly crated, licensed for export, and shipped or flown to your home address.
Are there Internet facilities in Vietnam?
Yes, there are plenty in cities and large towns, but not in rural areas. Most large hotels have internet access, and Internet cafes are commonplace and cheap.
The artist you took me to was wonderful. I want to give him a present. Any ideas?
This is a common query. If you want to show your appreciation to someone in the form of a gift, we will try to suggest something appropriate, and even purchase and deliver it on your behalf, if necessary.
I am from the United States. Will I face any hostility because of the war?
You will be surprised by the warmth of your reception. We Vietnamese live in the present and look forward to the future – the war is history. We warmly welcome people from all countries and races.
What is the attitude towards drugs in Vietnam?
The law is strict in Vietnam. The use of illegal narcotics is strictly forbidden under any circumstances. Dealers and people caught trafficking, whether Vietnamese or foreigner, face execution. Don't be tempted to risk it!
VISA TO VIETNAM & CAMBODIA
What are the visa requirements?
To enter Vietnam & Cambodia you will require a passport (with at least 6 months remaining validity) and a tourist visa. This visa must be obtained prior to arrival. A combined entry/exit and baggage declaration form will be issued to you prior to arrival and one section of this must be retained until your departure from Vietnam. Please ensure this paper is kept in a safe place while you are in Vietnam.
We want to travel to Vietnam but there is no Vietnam Embassy and Consulate Offices in our city. How can I get visa to Vietnam?
We can help you to get visa upon arrival to Vietnam. We will apply your passport information to the National Immigration Department of Vietnam (NIDV). The approval Letter will be issued by the NIDV and then we will forward you one copy of this letter, enabling you to get on airplane at any airport. You will receive the visa at the arrival airport after making the visa application (forms + stamping fee/passport + 2 photos of passport sizes)
Can I use single entry visa for our revisit Vietnam after touring Cambodia?
No, you must obtain the multiple entry visas. Please inform us if you wish to extend your trip and want to re-enter into Vietnam to connect departure flights or for any purpose.
How many days will you take to apply to approval letter?
Normally it takes us 3 working days to get approval letter for you. In urgent cases, we can obtain the letter within 2 working days. (Only applied for customers who have booked tour packages through us)
I am from Denmark, Do I need visa to Vietnam?
Citizens of Sweden, Finland, Denmark and Norway visiting Vietnam for up to 15 days are exempted from Visas. No visa required for ASEAN citizens (South East of Asia)
ACCOMMODATION IN VIETNAM
What is the Run of House room category ?
"Run of House", sometimes abbreviated as "ROH" includes the most common or standard type of room category in the hotel, featuring basic amenities. When you select "Run of House", your actual room will be determined by the hotel, based on availability, at the time of check-in.
Can I get Non Smoking Room?
Yes, please inform us while we are discussing tours/accommodation. We will remark type of room (w/s or n/s) that guests want to take. Please also remind your requests with receptionists of hotel before check-in.
My family consists of 5 persons (2 adults and 3 kids under 12 years old). Can we stay in 1 room? If not, what will I do?
It depends whether hotels have family room or not. Normally city hotels do not have family room and they only agree on maximum of 3 persons stay in 1 room. The best solution is you will have to take 2 indoor connecting rooms.
What about early check-in and late check-out? If I arrive in the city early in the morning, Can I use early check-in?
Check-in and check-out time in Vietnam is from 12:00 to 14:00 o'clock. Before or after of this time for check-in and check-out shall be considered as early check-in and late check-out. You can do early check-in but with acceptance of hotels and they will charge you some money for early check-in. In some cases, you will be charged as full day stay.
I want my room to be upgraded with high level of room. Shall I pay you or pay directly to hotels?
You can upgrade your room to a better class but you should check availability with the hotel's reservation department. To make fast processing and more convenient for you, you are highly recommended to settle the extras directly with hotels.
Are taxes and service charges often required by hotels are included?
Ministry of Finance has issued the Circular No. 13/2009/TT –BTC on 22 January 2009 regarding a value added tax (VAT) reduction on a number of goods and services, applicable from 01 Feb, 2009. Transportation, hotel business or tourism services, which are subject to 10% VAT under current regulations, to be entitled to 50% VAT reduction as mentioned in Points 17 & 18, Article 1 of the Circular. Therefore, 5% of government tax (not 10%) and 5% of service charge are always included in our rates.
Can I make last minute cancellation for my room booking through you?
It depends on hotel's cancellation's policy, some hotels charge customers 1 first night as last minute cancellation
TOUR GUIDES & SIGHTSEEING
You provide different tour guides or only 1 tour guide?
We will use different tour guides for almost trip with 2 main reasons as follow
- We will use different local tour guides to minimize the costing (Customers will not have to pay air tickets, accommodation and meals for fully escorted tour guide).
- Local tour guides have good commands of local knowledge, he know the place where he was born or long living, much better than people come from other regions.
Shall I have to tip tour guides and drivers after the trip?
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.
Are your trips private and for individuals?
All of our trip is designed for individuals and independent travelers. We do not provide joining or sharing group tours.
What kind of accommodation will we be staying in?
We choose finest accommodation in each category on the basis that they too represent the Luxury Styles "Luxury & Comforts". Our combination of atmospheric accommodation with cultural engagement will give you a truly memorable holiday experience.
What kind of transportation will you provide for us?
Depending on your size of group tour we choose the suitable types of car or van. For road journeys and inner-city touring, air-conditioned cars, mini-buses, or coasters are used. All of our vehicles are in very good conditions and all equipped with air conditioners. We keep all of vehicle clean daily check and monthly maintenance to make sure they are always safe on the roads. The longest drive is between Hanoi and Halong Bay, around three and a half hours each way. There are also several domestic flights within Vietnam, the longest for each flight is 1 hour and 45 minutes.
Where to stay in Hanoi? What hotel should we select? What are the room rates? Is breakfast included?
There are many different options for hotels, both in Hanoi and other destinations. We select and recommend the best boutique hotels in all budget ranges. For our package tours that include accommodation, we choose the best boutique hotels in that destination.
Breakfast is included at most hotels, our sales staff will inform you if it is not.
We want to book a double room, will it cost more?
You can always stay in a double room if it is available. Some hotels only offer twin accommodation. In some hotels a double room is a ‘deluxe’ room, so the rate is higher. On our boat trips in Halong Bay, we cannot promise you a double room as there are only a few. Please check with our sales staffs for further information.
What is single supplement?
The price is based on twin shared accommodation. Single supplement is the extra cost applied for those who want private rooms on the trip.
Can you clarify the three accommodation classes?
Except for the accommodations in the remote areas, the qualities of one class are the same in Hanoi, Hue, Hoi An, Nha Trang and Saigon.
- Standard (2 or 3-star hotels): Shared twin room with private bathroom, hot shower, and air-conditioning, in some cases plus satellite TV, IDD telephone, mini-bar and laundry service.
- Superior (3 or 4-star hotels): With sauna massage, garden bar or swimming pool…
- Deluxe (some of 4-star and all 5-star hotels): With full complementary services.
Is it safe to leave luggage at the hotel? Is there an alternative?
Many customers leave their luggage at their hotel while they go on our tours; we’ve yet to have a problem with this.
Where does the tour leave from and at what time? When will be arriving back in Hanoi?
Times vary depending on the tour. When you book your tour, you’ll be given a receipt and detailed itinerary for your tour which included departure and arrival times and locations.
Are there any hidden costs you do not mention? What about tipping?
No, there are no other costs. Our price covers everything except personal expenses. Generally, tipping is not compulsory. If you are satisfied with your guides and drivers, a small gratuity is an appropriate way in which to show appreciation to them.
What kind of vehicles do you use for road trips?
We use modern, clean, well maintained, professionally driven coaches. Coaches are usually over sized for the group as the extra room is more comfortable.
- Mini bus (29 seats): 9-20 passengers
- Mini van (16 seats): 3-8 passengers
- Car (4 seats): 1 or 2 passengers
They're all Japanese or Korean late model vehicles except for the 4WDs mentioned in the northern mountain jeep trips, those are Russian army jeeps making for a more exciting adventure. You can upgrade to a Toyota Land Cruiser.
Can you accommodate special dietary needs?
Normally, yes, however it's best to ask about your specific case. Generally, we have been able to accommodate, and always ask before finalizing your booking.
If the meals are included, can I avoid foods I dislike?
We try to take very special care of our guests and try to make a point of discovering any strong dislikes when you are booking. We're taking you "home" to Vietnam, and want you to enjoy it!
Do your tour guides speak good English or French?
Yes, they are very experienced and have a bit of good humor too! All our guides have studied and speak foreign languages. Generally on a fixed tour posted here, the guides are English speaking. If you want a tailor made tour with another language, please inquire with our sales staff.
Do the One World’s tours posted here include airfare?
No, they don't. Many of our guests fly on "points", while others choose to book their own air flights on the internet, directly with a favorite airline or through a trusted travel agent. You’ll also need to arrange your Tourist Visa.
Must I book through you, or can I use my Travel Agents?
We're always happy to work with reputable travel agents to help arrange your vacation. Your travel agents still receive their commission on flights and any travel insurance (a good idea). Or you can simply reserve your space directly.
How many people will I be traveling with on my tour?
For fixed-departure tours, depending upon the date and destination, each departure varies between as few as 2 passengers to maximum 14. This is just the right size range to ensure you have the opportunity to meet new friends and to enjoy the camaraderie of others, but not so large as to feel lost in the crowd. Of course, private tours can be organized with just only one passenger.
What age-groups take your tours?
We have had guests ranging in age from twenty-something to eighty-something. Romance and adventure have no age limits! We can tailor a tour for families with children and people with special needs.
We want to do Sapa and Halong Bay. Can we do the tours back to back? Will we be back in Hanoi in time to depart for the other tour on the same day?
Yes you can, many customers have a limited time and need to do exactly this. Whether you do Sapa first or Halong Bay, you’ll depart for the second tour on the same day you return from the first.
Our tour ends on the same day we want to catch the night train to Hue city, will we have enough time?
Most of our tours arrive back in Hanoi around dinner time leaving you plenty of time for the train to Hue. The best train departs at around 11pm daily.
Is it possible that a tour could be cancelled? What happens then?
A tour may be cancelled due to bad weather, closed roads etc… (Out-of-control conditions). In any case, Active Travel Vietnam will give you a full refund. If you want to cancel for other reasons, the deposit will be kept at our side as our Terms and Conditions.
We’ve compared with some other agencies and the price is higher, why?
Of course you can book a cheaper tour with another company, but remember you get what you pay for! We’ve built our solid reputation with small group tours, private and clean transportation, better hotels etc… All our guides are carefully selected; they have a university education in Tourism, are certified in First Aid, and of course speak great English. Our kayaking guides have an internationally recognized Sea Kayaking Guide Certification; our biking guides have been training and guiding bike trips for two years. We take customer satisfaction very seriously and at the end of the day an One World’s customer is a happy customer!
Can we book a tour without a guide? What about kayaking and biking?
It is possible to book some tours without a guide, for example many people book a jeep and driver to do northwest or northeast loop. For your safety, a guide is mandatory on all One World ‘adventure’ tours such as kayaking and biking.
What is the weather like?
In the south it is always hot and usually humid. In the north, it can be relatively cool in the first three months of the year - but nothing like as cold as in the U.K. In the summer and early autumn it can rain very hard at times.
What are the differences between north and south?
Hanoi is the seat of government and in part, the city reflects this but the old centre is like an overgrown village, teeming with everyday life. Outside Hanoi there is a more obvious Chinese influence in the culture, particularly in the architecture. As you get nearer to the Chinese border the landscape becomes more mountainous and can be cold in winter; the hill peoples are ethnically different from those found elsewhere in Vietnam. The south is more of a racial melting pot and Ho Chi Minh City (formerly Saigon) has a brasher atmosphere than Hanoi, partly because of its history. People from Ho Chi Minh City have the reputation of making more money and spending it more quickly. It is the bigger of the two cities and you will see higher rise hotels, etc. The Mekong Delta is tropical and exotic, with less obviously western influence
How do the Vietnamese view foreigners?
They are extremely friendly and welcoming. They love to laugh and have a good time and respond readily to any friendly behavior. There is no antagonism shown to westerners - particularly the young - provided that they show respect for Vietnamese customs. The Vietnamese are justifiably proud of their record in 20th century struggles but they are now concerned with building themselves a better future. This is above all true in the outlying suburbs of the big cities and in other big towns. In the centre of Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, the ever increasing number of tourists has meant an increase in minor pestering by street-vendors, etc. Crime is not rife and the cities feel safe, but problems can arise - beware of bag-snatchers on motorcycles.
Friendly reminder for souvenir products and shopping in Vietnam
While shopping for souvenir products in Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia is part of overall visit to the Indochina regions for all travelers who have requested to take part of this experience. TRAVELERS are strongly recommended to choose and pick the products carefully to avoid any disappointment in term of quality of any product before making decision to purchase. However if it turn out that the products be defected or did not measure to the perceived quality after the products have been purchased, the responsibility rest fully on the travelers and the suppliers (Shop Owners) who have made the exchange. We would like to remind all travelers that ONE WORLD TOURISM DOES NOT INVOLVE IN ANY PART OF THE EXCHANGE THUS WILL ASSUME NO RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE QUALITY OF ANY SOUVENIR PRODUCTS. Any returns for faulty or defective products should be returned directly to the place you purchased, not to our company as we, One World Tourism will not take responsibility for travelers’ requirements for product changes or refunding in term of poor quality or defected products.
