Vietnam is a country that combines captivating natural beauty and tranquil village life with a very turbulent history. Much influenced over millennia by its vast northern neighbour, China, it has however preserved a strong identity all of its own.

With its long coastline there has always been much trading and this is reflected in the marvellous cuisine that has influences from France as well as the rest of South East Asia. Over two decades have passed now since Vietnam was officially united and in that time it has done a remarkable job of healing its wounds. Today, this gracious and graceful country is an outstanding travel destination and one that will only become more popular.

Weather
Vietnam experiences hot weather all year round and can be visited at any time. October to April is the driest time with very little rainfall. The exception is the central highlands which experience rain from September to January. Vietnam has monsoons with the main rainy season from May to September, but most of the rain falls in the afternoon.

Local Customs
When visiting any foreign country it is always polite to respect the local customs. Take the time before your trip to read up on the countries you will be visiting and perhaps learn a few words of the language.

The majority of Vietnamese are Buddhists so it is not essential to wear long trousers or skirts. However when travelling around in rural areas and villages we recommend that you cover your legs. Shoes should be removed before entering a pagoda or Buddhist temple. Small donations placed in the boxes found in temples are appreciated. Never let the soles of your feet face other people or any sacred monument, such as a statue of Buddha.

Visas
Visas are required for all nationalities and cost £20.00 for Britsih Passports holders, at the Vietnamese embassy in London. We can slo arrange for your Vietnamese to be obtained on arrival with and invitation letter and costs $25.00 on arrival and you must take two passports photos.

Vaccinations
You will need to take prophylactic measures against Malaria which is on the increase in Vietnam. It is also recommended that your vaccinations for polio, hepatitis A, typhoid and tetanus are up to date.
Contact any of the following organisations for further information about protection against Malaria:
MASTA: Telephone: 0906 822 4100 www.masta.org
Live Travel Health Line: 09068 633414
www.fitfortravel.scot.nhs.uk

Flight duration
There are no non stop flights from London to Vietnam. The most direct flights are via Bangkok or Paris and take in the region of 14 hours.

Accommodation
We normally use excellent quality 4 star hotels on our tours in Vietnam. However depending on the tour, there is also the possibility to take the overnight Reunification Express train, stay on the Emeraude cuise boat or wooden stilt platform houses in the hill tribes area of Northern Vietnam. We also have a selection of beachside resorts and the option of staying at the 5 star Victoria chain of hotels.

Transport
A variety of transportation will be used on tour: private saloon cars, minibuses or coaches, depending on the size of the party. The roads in parts of Vietnam can be rough with travel consequently being slow.