vietnam by bike welcome to World Expeditions Asia trip highlights why travel with World Expeditions?

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1 Asia vietnam by bike trip highlights Historic monuments and the colourful Old Quarter in Hanoi Lush paddies, rivers and karst outcrops of the Red River Delta s Ninh Binh Emerald waters and limestone islands of majestic Halong Bay Imperial history on the banks of the Perfume River in Hue Ancient architecture and laid back atmosphere in Hoi An Sun, sand and island hopping in the beach resort city of Nha Trang Bustling streets and markets in Ho Chi Minh City Eye opening wartime history at the Cu Chi tunnels Support vehicle carrying spare parts will back you up whilst cycling through some of Vietnam s most spectacular landscapes Trip Duration 15 days Trip Code: VBR Grade Moderate Activities Cycling Summary 8 day cycle, 12 nights hotel, 1 night traditional boat, 1 night train welcome to World Expeditions Thank you for your interest in our Vietnam by Bike trip. At World Expeditions we are passionate about our off the beaten track experiences as they provide our travellers with the thrill of coming face to face with untouched cultures as well as wilderness regions of great natural beauty. We are committed to ensuring that our unique itineraries are well researched, affordable and tailored for the enjoyment of small groups or individuals philosophies that have been at our core since 1975 when we began operating adventure holidays. Our itineraries will give you the very best travel experience, designed by people with incredible local knowledge who share our vision of authentic exchange and real exploration with a responsible tourism approach. Whether you like your adventures to include trekking, touring, cycling, mountaineering, kayaking or cruising World Expeditions can make it happen for you. We hope you will join us for a life changing experience!! why travel with World Expeditions? We were the first company to pioneer cycle touring in Vietnam in Our bicycle equipment is the best available and we provide a support crew and vehicle. Most meals and excursions are included. Our expert local guides are the best available, and to ensure the smooth operation of all trips our partners in Vietnam continually work with us to improve our itineraries to ensure we are taking the paths less travelled. Most importantly, our adventures always aim to benefit the local people we interact with, safeguard the ecosystems we explore and contribute to the sustainability of travel in the regions we experience World Expeditions Travel Group - Laura Kirk 5/30/2017 2:42:40 PM

2 Hanoi Ninh Binh Thailand Laos Cambodia Halong Bay Hue Hoi An Vietnam Nha Trang Ho Chi Minh City trip cost Joining Hanoi: $2440 All prices are per person options & supplements Single Supplement: $360 World Expeditions does not require single travellers to pay a surcharge for travelling alone. We will arrange for you to share accommodation with another traveller of the same gender and if we can not match you up we will provide a single room at no extra charge. If you prefer not to share a single supplement is payable to guarantee your own room. The cost of the single supplement is listed above. For competitive airfares and stopover ideas to join this adventure, contact our expert staff today to receive a detailed quote. Inclusions Valued at USD$: Use of quality bikes: USD$120 the trip Without a doubt cycling is one of the finest ways to discover a country where hospitality comes as second nature. Our complete service includes comfortable geared bikes, a support crew and backup vehicle, and nights spent in well appointed and reliable hotels. This journey will offer a true insight into the local cuisine and friendly culture that will be sure to delight. Leaving Hanoi, where better than spectacular Ninh Binh and Halong Bay to start this amazing adventure, before heading south to Hue. Pedalling at a steady pace we explore an ever changing landscape of tranquil highlands, palm fringed beaches and country roads that lead through mango and coconut groves. Stopping at wayside tea stalls, the villagers curiosity often translates into invitations to visit their homes. We also savour the bustling, cosmopolitan café culture of Ho Chi Minh City on this unforgettable adventure. at a glance DAY 1 DAY 2 DAY 3 DAY 4 DAY 5 DAY 6 DAY 7 DAY 8 DAY 9 DAY 10 DAY 11 DAY 12 DAY 13 DAY 14 DAY 15 ARRIVE IN HANOI DRIVE TO NINH BINH, CYCLING AROUND NINH BINH (40KM) TRANSFER TO HALONG BAY, OVERNIGHT CRUISE RETURN TO HANOI, OVERNIGHT TRAIN TO HUE IN HUE, CYCLE THE ANCIENT CAPITAL (30KM) CYCLE TO HOI AN (30KM) EXPLORE HOI AN BY BIKE (30KM) CYCLE FROM HOI AN TO QUANG NGAI (60KM) CYCLE FROM QUANG NGAI TO KON TUM (70KM) CYCLE FROM KON TUM TO BUON MA THUOT (65KM) DOWNHILL RIDE TO COASTAL TOWN OF NHA TRANG (60-90KM) IN NHA TRANG FLY TO HO CHI MINH CITY CU CHI TUNNELS, HO CHI MINH CITY SIGHTSEEING IN HO CHI MINH CITY, TRIP CONCLUDES what s included 14 breakfasts, 10 lunches and 8 dinners Comfortable hotel and boat accommodation on a twin share basis English speaking guide Airport transfers (on first day and last day of the trip) All transport throughout including train sector on the Reunification Express Internal flight from Nha Trang/Ho Chi Minh City valued at USD$88 Private air conditioned vehicles 21 gear mountain bikes on cycling days Support vehicle with spare parts and bike mechanic on cycling days Group medical kit Sightseeing and entry fees as listed in the itinerary Local cash payments are becoming increasingly popular with many operators in the adventure travel industry. The policy seems to benefit the tour operators, more than the local economies or travellers, as it avoids local taxes and transfers the cost and risk of cash handling to travellers. In accordance with our Responsible Travel practices we have chosen a policy not to ask for such payments World Expeditions Travel Group - Laura Kirk 5/30/2017 2:42:40 PM

3 Dec - 24 Dec 19 Dec - 02 Jan Feb - 14 Mar 04 Mar - 18 Mar 20 Mar - 03 Apr 31 Mar - 14 Apr 08 Apr - 22 Apr 30 Apr - 14 May 20 May - 03 Jun 10 Jun - 24 Jun 15 Jul - 29 Jul 12 Aug - 26 Aug 02 Sep - 16 Sep 14 Oct - 28 Oct 11 Nov - 25 Nov 09 Dec - 23 Dec 18 Dec - 01 Jan trip dates important notes Note: - prices valid up to 31/12/2017. For trips departing after this date, the price will likely increase subject to local inflationary pressures on operational costs. fast facts Countries Visited: Vietnam Visas: Yes* Vaccinations: Please consult a travel vaccination specialist for up to date information Private Groups: Private group options are available for this trip* Singles: A single supplement is available for this trip* Leader: Expert local leader Brochure Reference: Asia *Ask our staff for more information. detailed itinerary DAY 1 Arrive in Hanoi If you re flying into Hanoi today you will be met at the airport and transferred to the group hotel. The afternoon is at leisure to start exploring Hanoi, with a group meeting being held in the hotel foyer at a time indicated in your final documents. In the evening we will enjoy a welcome dinner at a local restaurant, allowing you to meet your fellow travelers and sample specialty dishes of the north. After dinner, we have tickets to see a performance of Hanoi s famous water puppet theater. Water Puppet Theatre was traditionally performed during the monsoon months when rice farming was not possible, becoming a very popular art form for local people, with the stories reflecting life in the Red River Delta. Water Puppet Theatre is an important vehicle for local people to pass down stories of daily life, culture and mythology to younger generations, and performances are extremely popular among locals and visitors alike. Overnight in Hanoi. meals: D DAY 2 Drive to Ninh Binh, cycling around Ninh Binh (40km) After breakfast, you will take drive towards Ninh Binh. Cycle along the Van Long Nature Reserve. Next stop is Hoa Lu, which was the Vietnam s capital of the Dinh and Early Le dynasties in the 10th and 11th century. The sanctuaries were built in the 17th century. You will see the stone pedestal of a royal throne, bronze bells and statues of the Emperors. You then cycle to Trang An for a boat trip to explore the caves of Trang An. A boating will take you through karts landscape, shallow rice paddies, green trees in fresh air will amaze you. You will ride back to the hotel and have dinner at local restaurant. Cycling distance: 40 km Overnight in Ninh Binh. DAY 3 Transfer to Halong Bay, overnight cruise This morning we drive towards the coast where we ll board the traditional junk boat that will be taking us through Halong Bay. Our overnight cruise through this magnificent natural environment will undoubtedly be a highlight of the trip. While onboard our boat today we ll be cruising through this spectacular labyrinth of emerald waters studded with towering, jungle-clad limestone islands, eating fresh seafood and spending the afternoon swimming, kayaking and exploring some of the secluded beaches, caves and grottoes in the area. After coming back onboard for a sunset drink and delicious dinner we ll spend the night aboard in our own private, air conditioned cabins with ensuites. Overnight aboard boat. DAY 4 Return to Hanoi, overnight train to Hue In the morning, you continue with the cruise through different parts of Ha Long Bay, passing many islets and grottoes. You will reach the pier around noontime. From Ha Long, transfer back to Hanoi where you will have a little time for sightseeing relaxing. Then transfer to the railway station to take night train to Hue. The overnight accommodation aboard the train is four person sleeper cabins where you sleep in comfortable berths swaying to the timeless rhythm of the railroad. Overnight on train meals: B,L World Expeditions Travel Group - Laura Kirk 5/30/2017 2:42:40 PM

4 responsible travel The environments we travel through are fragile. It is our responsibility as visitors to minimise the impact of our presence. World Expeditions were the proud recipients of the inaugural Australian National Travel Industry s Environmental Achievement award for our Responsible Travel Guidebook. This detailed guide to responsible and sustainable travel is provided to all World Expeditions clients before they travel. Please ask your consultant if you have not received your copy of our award winning book. Alternatively, you may like to download a copy from our website Elephant Welfare For centuries throughout Asia the elephant has been revered, as well as utilised for the purpose of logging. However in the late 80s the use of elephants in the logging industry was banned because of over logging, and so mahouts turned to the tourism industry for income. As a result elephant tourism experiences have popped up throughout Asia and it can be difficult for travellers to resist the temptation to ride these beautiful and incredibly intelligent creatures. In recent years there has been much research into the impact of tourism activities on elephants well being. From the brutal taming of baby elephants called the crush to ongoing confinement and the mere fact that the elephants spine is not meant to carry heavy weights there are many instances where incorrect management results in a negative impact for the elephants. Because of this World Expeditions discourages travellers from riding on the back of elephants and we do not include elephant rides in our itineraries throughout our global program and across all World Expeditions brands. There are a few carefully selected elephant orphanages and sanctuaries in South East Asia and India that we include in some of our itineraries because we believe their operations put the elephants well being before the tourist experience. DAY 5 In Hue, cycle the ancient capital (30km) After check-in at our hotel, we ll hop on our bikes and spend the day exploring the elegant imperial city of Hue, which served as the political, religious and cultural capital of Vietnam under the Nguyen dynasty from 1802 until Hue is famous for its grand imperial architecture: fortresses, citadels, palaces and pagodas, all set along the banks of the tranquil Perfume River. We ll visit some of the city s major landmarks, including the Imperial Citadel, the Forbidden Purple City, the Imperial Museum, Thien Mu Pagoda and the royal tomb of Emperor Tu Duc. Cycling distance: 30 km Overnight in Hue. meals: B,L DAY 6 Cycle to Hoi An (30km) Today we cycle along small back roads, passing rice fields, fish farms, local markets and traditional craft villages. From Thuan An Beach we turn onto the scenic coastal road heading southward towards Hoi An. After 3 hours cycling we will reach Phuoc Tuong Pass, where our vehicle will be waiting to transfer us to nearby Lang Co beach for lunch. After lunch we head to the scenic spur of the Hai Van Pass for amazing coastal views and photo opportunities, before continuing on to Hoi An via Danang city. Alternatively, if the group would like to ride further, the option is there to continue riding along the coast road into Hoi An. Upon arrival, the afternoon will be free to relax or start exploring. Cycling distance: 30 km (with an optional additional 40 km) Overnight in Hoi An. DAY 7 Explore Hoi An by bike (30km) Hoi An is an ancient port town and was home to one of Southeast Asia s major international harbors from 17th to the 19th century. The city preserves hundreds of houses built of precious wood in its very own style. There is the Japanese quarter linked with a Chinese neighborhood by the famous Japanese Covered Bridge, which was constructed in The Chinese community of Hoi An founded many temples and Assembly Halls, which are worth visiting. In the morning, you could join couple hours riding with the guide to explore the quietest and peaceful villages where you can interact with locals to get to know more about their life Cam Thanh islet and cycling to Tra Que vegetable farm. In the afternoon, you will enjoy the walking tour to explore the ancient town of Hoi An. Cycling distance: 30 km Overnight in Hoi An. meals: B DAY 8 Cycle from Hoi An to Quang Ngai (60km) Today, we cycle on small road to explore the real life styles of the local people. We will pass several fishing villages, and beautiful rice paddy fields. We start riding from our hotel on the back roads to discover the natural beauty of Thu Bon River to reach Tam Ky town for lunch. After lunch, you take a short bus ride to Chau O. On this ride you ll travel through villages where the people love to say hello and give you a friendly wave. Then continue to Sa Ky Port, My Khe beach and the well-known hamlet of My Lai. Here, there is the evocative memorial for those villagers who died in the horrific massacre during the Vietnam War. The My Lai site is a small rural settlement, surrounded by simple thatched huts, quilted rice paddies and farmers with conical hats going about their day to day routines. The World Expeditions Travel Group - Laura Kirk 5/30/2017 2:42:40 PM

5 trip grading Moderate These adventures involve cycling for up to 6 or 7 hours a day at a steady pace. You will need a good level of fitness and be in good health. The majority of our moderately graded trips involve the carrying of a day pack only, though some may involve carrying a full pack. Be prepared for potential variable weather conditions. Suggested preparation; 1 hour of aerobic exercise, three to four times a week and extended periods of exercise during the weekend will accustom you to regular exercise. This trip is not a race. There will be a support truck following the group on all cycling days should you choose to load your bike and watch the scenery pass from your private air conditioned group vehicle. adventure travel By its very nature adventure travel involves an element of the unexpected. In remote and developing countries do not expect standards you are used to at home. Remote areas are sometimes unpredictable and itineraries may be altered. To get the most out of your adventure it is important that you are flexible, positive and eager to take on all the challenges that arise. If you are uncertain about your suitability for this trip we recommend that you speak with your consultant or travel agent. important note These trip notes represent the most current information for this itinerary, and may supersede any information in the current brochure, including but not limited to the itinerary and price. The itinerary should be seen as a guide only. This itinerary may change at any time due to inclement weather, forces of nature and other circumstances beyond our control. mood is set by these peaceful and tranquil surroundings despite the deep scars of the past. After visiting the memorial and museum you can either continue riding (depending on the time of day) or take our support bus to Quang Ngai where you ll spend the night. Total Cycle distance: approx 60kms Overnight: Quang Ngia DAY 9 Cycle from Quang Ngai to Kon Tum (70km) Today is a more challenging day as you leave Highway No.1 and head inland towards Quang Nam. You will cycle only part of today, along with stunning photo opportunities. You will cycle to the foot of Violac Pass (1,000m high above sea level and 76km long). From here, you transfer to Mang Den and cycle downhill. You will properly keep riding past many remote villages, over bridges and along quiet but scenic roads. Cycling distance: 70 km Overnight in Kon Tum. DAY 10 Cycle from Kon Tum to Buon Ma Thuot (65km) From Kon Tum, you take the early drive to Chu Se town, passing Pleiku city. Stop on the top of Chu Se Pass, cycle down the pass, continue riding up and down some small hills, on the flat grounds through some busy towns and have lunch at Ajupa town. After lunch, you continue enjoying more fabulous rides through large coffee, rubber and dragon fruits plantations as well as the hill tribe villages. You finally reach your destination, E Adrang town. You then transfer by bus to Buon Ma Thuot city - the largest town in the Western Highlands, and the capital of Dak Lak Province. Cycling distance: 65 km Overnight in Buon Ma Thuot. DAY 11 Downhill ride to coastal town of Nha Trang (60-90km) Today is an exhilarating day as we cycle from the mountains of Buon Ma Thuot towards the coast to the beach resort of Nha Trang. We cover a lot of ground today, but most of the distance is downhill. As you head away from the rainforest-covered plateau towards the coastal plain, you ll pass through hill tribe hamlets and thick forests, home to diverse wildlife including elephants. We ll stop for lunch en route and travel the final stretch by vehicle, a chance to soak up the scenery of turquoise lagoons dotted with fishing boats and prawn farms. Tonight you may like to head out for a seafood feast at one of the beachfront restaurants. Cycling distance: km Overnight in Nha Trang. meals: B,L DAY 12 In Nha Trang Today is a day of leisure (no cycling!) and postcard-perfect natural beauty as we cruise the tropical waters and islands around Nha Trang. There will be time for swimming and snorkeling, or simply relaxing on the beach with a cold drink. A fresh seafood lunch will be served on our boat before we head back to Nha Trang, where the rest of the day will be free at leisure. Overnight in Nha Trang. meals: B,L World Expeditions Travel Group - Laura Kirk 5/30/2017 2:42:40 PM

6 DAY 13 Fly to Ho Chi Minh City This morning is free at leisure in Nha Trang before our flight to Ho Chi Minh City. If time permits, you might like to enjoy a well-earned massage! Upon our arrival in Ho Chi Minh City (formerly Saigon), we transfer to our hotel. With a population of 6 million, this is the largest and busiest city in Vietnam and much of daily life takes place on its busy streets, which are lined with shops, stalls and vendors spilling out onto the footpath. The rest of today is free to rest or start exploring the city. Overnight in Ho Chi Minh City meals: B DAY 14 Cu Chi Tunnels, Ho Chi Minh City sightseeing This morning we drive to the famous Cu Chi Tunnels, a twisting network of narrow underground tunnels and rooms that the Viet Cong used as its military base and living quarters during the Vietnam War, at its height the tunnel system stretched from Saigon all the way to the Cambodian border. The system including tunnels, trap doors, living areas, storage facilities, weapons factories and caches, field hospitals, command centres and kitchens. We ll learn about the Viet Cong s life underground as well as being able to explore the system by foot, before driving back to Ho Chi Minh City for an afternoon of sightseeing. One of the city s main sights is the Reunification Palace, an outstanding example of 1960s architecture that is steeped in modern history. It was here that the Vietnam War ended dramatically in 1975 when the city of Saigon fell after a North Vietnamese army tank crashed through the palace gates, from which point the city was known as Ho Chi Minh City. Other major landmarks include the Notre Dame Cathedral, an imposing neo-romanesque Catholic cathedral built in the late 19th century; and the Saigon Post Office, a classic French colonial building bearing a giant portrait of Uncle Ho and many grand architectural details. If time permits, the city s War Remnants Museum offers an excellent collection of grim artifacts and photographs from the Vietnam-American War. Ben Thanh Market is an enormous sprawling covered marketplace that is packed to the gills with everything from fresh fruits, vegetables, seafood and sweets; to suitcases, clothing and white goods; to traditional lacquer ware, handicrafts and kitschy tourist trinkets. Bargaining is key here, but even if you re not shopping, it s a dazzling spectacle to photograph. Tonight we ll join our Vietnamese guide for a farewell dinner at a local restaurant. Overnight in Ho Chi Minh City. meals: B,D DAY 15 In Ho Chi Minh City, trip concludes The morning is free in Ho Chi Minh City where our journey concludes. If you are flying home today you will be transferred to the airport in time for your departure. meals: B This itinerary is subject to change with any change in Community regulations as well as Governmental changes and natural circumstances beyond our control. boat cruise In Halong Bay, we stay aboard a deluxe, traditional style junk. Its built entirely of wood and featuring an elegant dining room and bar, creating the perfect balance of modern comforts and traditional junk ambience. With 10 cabins on board and a staff of 12 as well, you will soon feel pampered by the Garden Bay family. You will experience a personalized and attentive service by the crew who understand that friendliness and efficiency contribute to the wow factor of Halong World Expeditions Travel Group - Laura Kirk 5/30/2017 2:42:40 PM

7 Bay. Sailing on a junk provides true ambiance due to the traditional wooden oriental design. The medium sized wooden junks give easy access to secluded areas within the bay. The spacious sun deck is the ideal place to bask under the sun, or you can just sit under the shaded area and let your senses drift while looking at the view. The dining room is located on the upper deck and is surrounded by panoramic windows providing beautiful views of the bays wonder and accommodates its guests serving both set menus and/or a buffet. Right next to dining room, Marguerite Bar provides a wide selection of drinks, cocktails, smoothies and juices. Your cabin is your personal retreat. Fully equipped spacious timbered bedrooms with private bathrooms that define true comfort and privacy. Each cabin has a large viewing window providing the most beautiful views and fully furnished with a variety of amenities. Individually controlled Air conditioning, mini bar, bedside table, hairdryer, slippers en suite bathroom with standing shower, toilet and towels. High quality white bed linen and complimentary drinking water are provided. Built: in Halong September 2012 Decks: 3 Length: 31.6m Width: 7.6m Height: 6.5m Sundeck: 26x6m2 Cabins: 10 Crew: 12 Passenger Capacity: 22 suggested extensions Mekong Delta Cycle cycling We believe that cycling is one of the best ways to see a country. Our cycling trips have been well researched to take you on the best route which usually means a combination of tarmac and dirt roads, the odd main road but generally smaller secondary roads. And sometimes even the occasional hill! All of this so that you can see the incredible scenery and landscapes, view the main sights and along the way eat delicious food, stay at unique accommodation and discover the incredible people. Generally we supply you with geared (21 27) mountain or touring bikes and support vehicle which will follow the group on almost all sections of the ride. All equipment and luggage will be carried by the support vehicle. You will need to carry a small day pack with your camera, sunscreen and water. It is important to remember that these cycling journeys are not designed to be a marathon event. No one needs to feel under pressure to ride. If at any point you do not wish to ride the vehicle is always available for you and your bike to be transported. Usually we stop every 10 to 20kms for a rest. This will be the time to recover your breath and replenish your fluids and energy with water and snacks. Remember that cycling involves some physical exertion, so you cannot expect that you will not feel tired. A little bit of preparation will go a long way. Cycling, of course, is an active pursuit and to maximise your own personal protection in case of a tumble or fall, the wearing of a bicycle helmet is compulsory at all times whilst cycling. country information Stretching over 1,650 km (1,025 mi) from north to south along the eastern coast of mainland Southeast Asia, Vietnam is a country of immense beauty and geographic diversity. The main World Expeditions Travel Group - Automated Import 11/29/ :15:46 AM

8 features of Northern Vietnam are mountains, forests, the vast Red River Delta, and the beautiful Gulf of Tonkin coastline with its labyrinth of waterways and islands. Central Vietnam is made up of agricultural plains wedged between the Truong Son Mountains and the South China Sea, making for some dramatic mountain passes overlooking ocean vistas. The fertile waterways of the Mekong Delta dominate the south, and over 3,200 km of coastline and countless islands fringe the country. Vietnam s rich cultural identity has been steeped in the traditions of its ancient civilizations and shaped by the influences of occupation, war and communism. Since the relaxation of political and economic controls that began in the late 1980s, Vietnam has experienced both exposure to capitalist liberalism and a return to many traditional cultural practices. The country is a mosaic of different cultures, with over 50 ethnic groups officially recognised. The lingering impact of socialism is evident here, especially in the capital of Hanoi, where faded propaganda artworks adorn billboards throughout the city, but there s never been a better time to visit this fascinating and beautiful country. There s so much to love about Vietnam: lush mountains and great rivers, sandy beaches and tropical islands, chaotic cities and bustling markets, ancient towns and sleepy villages, tranquil lakes and peaceful pagodas, crumbling ruins and grand imperial palaces, lively culture and sophisticated cuisine, and above all, the humble nature and determined spirit of its people, that rises above the country s dark and complex history. climate Vietnam s climate can vary markedly from region to region due to its extreme latitudinal span. You can go from soaring temperatures and extreme humidity in Ho Chi Minh City to cool and mild conditions in Dalat to frosts and even occasional snow in the mountains of the north. Generally two distinct seasons prevail in Vietnam: from November to April, the temperatures are usually fairly cool, especially in the north of the country. In the mountain areas temperatures can be as low as 0 C (32 F) and there can be a constant light drizzle. Hotter temperatures and heavy monsoon rains characterise the months from May to October, although you can experience rain at any time. The hottest months of the year are June, July and August. Southern Vietnam s weather patterns are more constant with a rainy season from May to October and a relative dry season from November to February. The temperatures in the south can rise as high as 35 C (95 F) from March to May. dietary requirements Provided we are advised in advance of your departure we are able to cater for vegetarian diets and can assist with medically recommended diets (allergies and intolerances). Please ensure you discuss your requirements with us well in advance (at least 1 month prior to your trip) to determine whether we can cater to such dietary requirements on your chosen adventure. Please note that options are likely to be limited in very remote locations or alternatives may be more expensive or unavailable. There may be times when those with special requirements may need to provide their own food. We are unable to guarantee a peanut free or allergen free trip, and therefore, we strongly encourage that travellers with life threatening or severe allergies take all necessary medical precautions to prepare for the possibility of exposure. Passengers must travel with all necessary medications for food allergies and be capable of self administering these medications. equipment provided World Expeditions Travel Group - Automated Import 11/29/ :15:46 AM

9 The bicycles used on this program are 21 speed, aluminium frame, mountain bikes, equipped with hand brakes. The bikes are supplied with a water bottle rack maximum capacity 750ml. These bicycles are used on all of the trips and therefore are used by many different people throughout a season. It is possible that your bicycle might need certain slight adjustments before you commence riding. However, additional adjustments or repairs may have to be made along the way and at least one additional bicycle is supplied for each group in case a replacement becomes necessary. Sets of basic tools are aboard the follow up truck and your trip leader will assist with any difficulties. If you already have a saddle that you are comfortable cycling long distances on, you should bring this with you. A gel seat cover is also highly recommended and well worth the additional cost (available in cycling shops). We regret that there are only a few smaller women s bicycles and these can be reserved for shorter group members, so long as we are advised of your height well in advance of your tour departure. *For safety reasons, we also insist that cycle helmets be included as a compulsory item on your equipment list. accommodation on the trip Hotels: in cities and large towns you will be accommodated in 3 to 4 star properties that are generally well located, atmospheric and reliable and where we have seen a good track record with traveller satisfaction over many years. Lodges and Home stays: In Asia we only use good quality lodges situated in natural environments. They are not luxury lodges, but what they do offer is comfortable accommodation which is well maintained and with good facilities. what you carry In your daypack you will need to carry a rainjacket, water bottle, camera gear, valuables and personal items such as sunscreen, lip eze etc. equipment required It is mandatory that you wear a helmet on all bike tours. We deliberately do not supply rental helmets because only a well fitting helmet can offer a certain amount of protection. Cycling helmets are offered by numerous suppliers in various price and quality categories. When buying a bicycle helmet we recommend getting advice at a specialist store since finding the optimum helmet depends on quite a number of things. Avoid at all cost buying a helmet because of its looks; the main criteria should be a perfect fit. In some areas there are a limited number of helmets are available for hire but as suitability cannot be guaranteed we ask that you bring your own for the best fit and comfort. vehicles & safety During the course of your trip, we will use a variety of vehicles, all of which are fit for purpose and the conditions encountered. It should be noted that laws governing transportation safety may differ from those in your home country and on occasion some vehicles may not have seat belts fitted. While game viewing within a national park could be one example, public bus transfers or specialised transport such as tuk tuk s could be another. Where seat belts are not provided we strongly recommend that you hold tight to a fixed part of the vehicle at all times World Expeditions Travel Group - Automated Import 11/29/ :15:46 AM

10 what s not included International airfares Visa fees Travel Insurance (compulsory) Bike Helmet (compulsory) Meals and beverages not mentioned in the itinerary Items of a personal nature such as laundry, phone calls, alcohol etc Tips and gratuities visas Most visitors, including Australian, Canadian, American and New Zealand passport holders require visas for Vietnam. United Kingdom Vietnam visa exemption for a period of up to 15 days until 30/6/2017. For stays longer than 15 days a visa must be obtained prior to arrival in Vietnam. Generally, when sending your passport to your nearest Vietnamese Consulate, it must be accompanied by the following: 1. Passport with a validity of at least 6 months remaining. 2. Completed visa application form with a passport photo attached. 3. Visa fee (as a bank cheque, money order or cash). 4. Travel itinerary. 5. Return postage. The visa processing will usually take 10 working days. You may need 2 extra passport size photographs for customs. These are only sometimes required, however, it is better to be prepared and carry them with you on arrival. Please Note: The Embassy of Vietnam advises the following in relation to companies promoting online visas for Vietnam: The Vietnamese Embassies and Consular Offices are the only competent Government Agencies, who are authorised to issue visas abroad. In order to avoid any risks that may arise when boarding flights or at ports of entry in Vietnam, travellers are strongly recommended to contact the nearest Embassy or Consulate of Vietnam to secure visas before departure. Please bear in mind that visas may be required for countries you are visiting en route or transiting through on the way to your destination. It is important that you check the requirements of all countries you will visit. Visa costs and requirements do change regularly so we suggest you check with your travel agent or World Expeditions reservations consultant. It is your responsibility to obtain all necessary visas. info nights World Expeditions invites you to attend our inspiring adventure travel information nights. These special evenings are designed to inform and entertain and are hosted by our most experienced and passionate adventure travellers and mountaineers. Ask our staff for a info night schedule or register on our website Shows can fill early so it is important to register your attendance so we know to save a seat, or two! private groups The adventures featured in our brochures, and on our website, are just a starting point for many of our private group travellers. Working closely with our Groups Department we can organise custom designed itineraries for groups of friends, clubs, charity s, schools or even World Expeditions Travel Group - Automated Import 11/29/ :15:46 AM

11 work colleagues. Our team will assist you with all aspects of your private group adventure from itinerary design to group flights. Contact our team today. subscribe to our e-newsletter To keep up to date with our new and exciting adventure opportunities, special promotions and adventure news, subscribe to our monthly e newsletter! You can do this on line through our website, or contact our office. social networking Follow us on Facebook at trip availability If this trip seems right for you then we encourage you to call us now to check availability. There are many reasons why you may not be able to join your desired departure and limited space on our small group departures is just one of them. Many of our adventures require us to secure services on your behalf; such as trekking permits, train travel and visa invitation letters. The demand is increasing each year making it difficult to join a trip last minute. To ensure we can assist you onto your adventure of a lifetime we ask that you check your trip availability with our team at your earliest convenience. how to book To book a World Expeditions trip, you will need to complete a booking form and pay a non refundable deposit which you can do by using our online booking function for most trips, or if you prefer, download a booking form from the website and return to us by fax, or mail your booking form and deposit to your nearest World Expeditions office or travel agent. We can also help you with any additional arrangements that you require, such as competitive airfares to get you to your destination, stopovers, pre or post trip accommodation or any additional tours that you wish to take in conjunction with the main World Expeditions trip World Expeditions Travel Group - Automated Import 11/29/ :15:46 AM