14-Day Thailand to Laos Explorer

Hello and welcome to your Stray Adventure! Your adventure kicks off in the vibrant metropolis of Bangkok, Thailand. If you arrive early in the day, feel free to check out the buzzing markets and ancient temples that make up only a small part of this diverse city. This evening your Tour Leader will meet you at your hotel reception at 6pm along with your new travel mates for a Welcome Meeting and introduction. We’ll cover how Stray works and answer any questions you have before heading out for a group dinner in Bangkok.

Inclusions: Welcome Meeting & Dinner. Meals: (D). Accommodation: W22 Hotel

Today we’re going to tour the canals of Bangkok which are known as the Klongs. Far away from the bustling city centre, this tour will take you to see the quieter, ‘real’ Bangkok where you’ll see wooden houses on stilts and colourful temples, meet friendly locals, and spend some time in an unexpected green oasis.

This evening we’ll head to the train station to board the overnight train to Chiang Mai for an overnight sleeper train experience. For those who have never been on one before this is an adventure complete with lie flat beds and a restaurant carriage. It’s the most fun way to travel to Chiang Mai and get to know your new travel mates!

Inclusions: Klong Tour, overnight train. Meals: (B). Accommodation: Overnight Train

We’ll arrive at Chiang Mai train station around this morning and head for breakfast where you can begin to see the beauty of the city and plan your optional activities. As the largest city in Northern Thailand, Chiang Mai is a popular place for many travellers full of endless activity options, such as Thai cooking classes and bike tours to name a few. Once a kingdom unto itself, there are over 300 Buddhist temples to discover and we’d recommend visiting the old walled city to see the Tapae Gate.

Late afternoon we’ll head to the Doi Suthep mountain and temple. You have the choice to climb the towering 300 steps or take the scenic cable car ride where you’ll get stunning views over Chiang Mai. At 6pm we’ll hear the chanting of the monks ringing out across the valley. Once back in the centre, we recommend spending your evening browsing the famous night market to score a bargain or you can check out the lively music scene.

Inclusions: Doi Suthep Temple and sunset. Meals: (B). Accommodation: Chiang Mai Gate Hotel

Today you’ll visit the incredible Elephant Nature Park where you can observe and spend time with a magnificent elephant herd. This immersive experience allows you to watch them in a natural environment, see them walking down to the river and bathing playfully together.

Inclusions: Elephant Nature Park. Meals: (B,L). Accommodation: Chiang Mai Gate Hotel

This morning we’ll depart Chiang Mai and head for the Thailand-Laos border. We’ll make a stop near Chiang Rai to check out the famous White Temple (Wat Rong Khun). Wat Rong Khun is a unique modern Buddhist temple that features some curious statues and murals that include images from Star Wars and The Matrix, Freddie Kruger’s head hanging in the trees and a giant Predator emerging from the garden. We’ll stop here long enough to grab a snack and take a few photos before we continue on to cross the border into Laos. Once in Laos we’ll take a short tuk-tuk ride to the small town of Houay Xai, our stop for the night.

Inclusions: The White Temple (Wat Rong Khun). Meals: (B). Accommodation: Wangview Hotel

Leaving Houay Xai this morning we’ll board our private slow boat to cruise down the Mekong River to a secluded village where we’ll get to experience a slice of the ‘real Laos’. Sitting back we’ll soak up this incredible journey as we wind your way through lush farmland, past thriving jungle and rugged mountain scenery, arriving in the village in the late afternoon. This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to become immersed in Lao culture, where you will get a taste of traditional Lao village before we head to the small riverside town of Pakbeng for the evening.

Inclusions:​​​ Border Crossing, Slow Boat + village visit. Meals: (B,L). Accommodation: Phetsoksay Hotel

Today we wave goodbye to the village and its lovely residents and jump back aboard our private boat to head downriver to the famous limestone Pak Ou Caves. Pak Ou is an important pilgrimage site for Lao people where we will see thousands of Buddhist images that have been placed throughout the caves over hundreds of years. Back on board our boat, a short trip takes us to the UNESCO World Heritage town, Luang Prabang, which features a fusion of French Colonial architecture and traditional Lao design. Set against a backdrop of misty mountains and lush green jungle, Luang Prabang is a truly majestic place to spend time.

Inclusions:​​​ Slow Boat + Pak Ou Caves. Meals: (B,L). Accommodation: Vang Luang Hotel

Today we’ll travel to the Living Land Farm which is an organic farm run by locals for the benefit of Lao people. They grow organic produce, herbs and rice which they supply to leading restaurants and hotels in Luang Prabang.

In the afternoon, we’ll visit the beautiful Kuang Si Waterfalls, where the turquoise water and calm pools offer the perfect chance to cool off and enjoy a refreshing swim. At the base of the falls, you’ll find a rescue centre for the native Asiatic moon bears where you can watch them happily living in a safe environment. If you’re feeling fit, climb up to the very top of the falls and take in the view from the above.

Inclusions: Living Land Farm + Kuang Si Falls. Meals: (B). Accommodation: Vang Luang Hotel

Today you have a full free day to explore Luang Prabang, the ancient capital of Luang Prabang Province in northern Laos. Explore some of the many Buddhist temples, including the gilded Wat Xieng Thong, dating to the 16th century, and Wat Mai, once the residence of the head of Laotian Buddhism or stroll through the incredible food markets and sample some traditional Lao fare.

Inclusions: Free Day in Luang Prabang. Meals: (B). Accommodation: Vang Luang Hotel

This morning we head to the train station to board our fast train for a 1 hour journey to the little riverside town of Vang Vieng, formerly known as the best place to take tubing trips down the Nam Song River to visit riverside bars and indulge in cheap booze. These days you can still go tubing, but now you get to enjoy the beauty of Vang Vieng’s landscape without the sound of pounding bass in the background. On arrival we’ll go for an orientation walk around the town and then you’ll have free time to explore.

Inclusions: Fast Train tickets. Meals: (B). Accommodation: Silver Naga Hotel

With its stunning natural scenery, Vang Vieng offers ample outdoor activities to choose from. We recommend hiring a bike to explore the town and visiting the Blue Lagoon, one of the best natural swimming holes in Laos or if you’re looking for more adventure there are also great rock climbing, caving, zip lining and kayaking options. This evening check out one of several international restaurants for a taste of home or head to one of the bars to really get the party started.

Inclusions: Free Day – Optional Activities. Meals: (B). Accommodation: Silver Naga Hotel

Today we’ll board the bus and cruise through to the capital of Laos. On arrival in Vientiane your Tour Leader will take you on a tour of the city’s main attractions, including Putaxai, Pha That Luang, That Dam, the Presidential Palace, and the COPE centre – a non-profit organisation that educates visitors and raises awareness for victims of UXO (Unexploded Ordnance) and the Secret War. After checking in at our centrally located accommodation, you are free to explore the city, get a massage, go shopping or people watch at one of the local restaurants by the river

Inclusions: City Tour. Meals: (B). Accommodation: City Inn Hotel

Today you have a free day to explore Vientiane and enjoy your last full day on tour. Enjoy the French-colonial architecture, explore the Buddhist temples, stroll along the tree-lined streets and enjoy delicious food in one of the many restaurants and cafes around.

Inclusions: Free Day. Meals: (B). Accommodation: City Inn Hotel

Today your journey with Stray comes to an end. Whether you’re spending some extra time in Laos or travelling onwards to your next destination, we hope you’ve had a blast on your great Stray adventure and that you’ve made friends and memories to last a lifetime!

Meals: (B).

Standard Terms and Conditions

1. These points make up all of the terms of contract between Stray (‘Stray’ or ‘us/we’) and the customer (‘passenger/you’).
2. Prices: Prices: All prices are inclusive of tax. Prices listed on Stray’s website may be rounded. The final amount charged may vary +/- $0.50 of the advertised price.  New Zealand products are priced in NZD. Australian products are priced in AUD. Asia products are priced in USD
3. Stray passes and tours are only valid for the person whose name they were originally issued for and are non-transferrable. Passengers can expect to be Photo ID checked.
4. Behaviour: Stray is not a common carrier and therefore can refuse to carry a person whose behaviour is detrimental to the enjoyment of the group. By travelling with Stray you agree to accept the authority of the Guide and accept their decisions. Our staff are entitled to a safe working environment, and our passengers to a great experience. Any threats to safety, being physical or verbal, or inappropriate behaviour may result in removal from the trip. If a Guide requires a passenger to leave the trip no refunds will be given and the passenger in question will be responsible for their own travel costs from that point.
5. Published information: Stray will endeavour to adhere to published/stated departure, arrival and general travel times however on occasion, external and unpredictable events may prevent us from meeting these times. In these scenarios Stray is not liable for any loss or damage arising out of, or consequentially upon, any abandonment of, or delay in, any departure. We make a concerted effort to ensure the accuracy of our brochure, Stray Mate and website content however on occasion details may vary. Liaise with your Guide or Stray’s reservations team for clarification. Where a new brochure has been published (as shown by the validity date) it supersedes all older brochures. Anything listed in the brochure as free is not considered included in the ticket price and is non-refundable and non-transferable, no matter what the circumstances.
6. Disruptions: Stray will not be held liable for unforeseen disruptions to your trip that are beyond our control (weather, natural disasters, third party service changes, etc). We will always endeavour to assist you but encourage you to take out a comprehensive travel insurance policy that will cover you for unforeseen disruptions, cancelling and cutting short your trip, delayed departures, accident and medical.
7. Sickness & injury: While all care will be taken, Stray will not be held liable for any sickness or injury to any customer.
8. Visas: It is the passenger’s responsibility to carry a valid passport and appropriate visas while travelling on any Stray services.
9. Travel Insurance: Travel insurance is not included with Stray passes or tours. Adequate and valid travel insurance is compulsory to travel with Stray in all regions. Your travel insurance policy must cover you for accidents, injury, illness and death medical expenses, including any related to pre-existing medical conditions, emergency repatriation (including helicopter rescue and air ambulance where applicable) and personal liability. Stray also recommends that it covers tour cancellation or curtailment, loss of/damage to luggage, personal effects and natural disasters. When travelling with us in Asia, you must provide Stray with your travel insurance details prior to departure and carry your policy information with you while travelling and produce it on request. Your trip may be cancelled or you may be removed from a tour if you cannot provide proof of travel insurance at any time. We do not take responsibility for any personal possessions lost under any circumstances.
10. Where third party operator services are included in Stray’s passes/tours, Stray will make every endeavour to ensure the operator meets their obligations in the delivery of the service. If the Operator fails to deliver on their obligations Stray will seek a fair and reasonable resolution, which may result in a partial or full refund. If the expected level of service or inclusions have been misrepresented by the ‘booking agent’, the passenger will need to address their concerns directly with their agent.  Stray takes no responsibility for any act of neglect by any company whose services are used as part of your trip including but not limited to, activity and accommodation providers.
11. Stray accepts no responsibility for any independently operated activity a passenger chooses to undertake while travelling with Stray.
12. Illegal activity: If passengers are caught with non-prescription, illegal drugs or partaking in illegal activities while travelling with Stray, any resulting consequences (incarceration, capital punishment and even death) will result in the passengers Stray pass/tour being nullified (voided) without refund. Stray will refuse carriage and will take no responsibility for passengers partaking in illegal activities.
13. Images and video: On occasion, Stray conducts photo and video projects for the purposes of promoting its products and services. Passengers on these trips will be given the option to opt out of any such activities. Passengers are to advise their Guide should they wish to be excluded. If you do not opt out you are consenting to Stray using the images taken whilst on your Stray trip for advertising and promotional purposes worldwide, royalty-free in any medium.
14. Deposit payments: A $200 deposit is required upon booking. Full payment is required within 6 months of the booking or a minimum of 31 days prior to departure (whichever comes first). If the full payment is not received in the designated time frame, Stray reserves the right to cancel the booking. Deposits are non-refundable and non-transferable. When you pay by deposit, you have committed to paying the price advertised at the time of booking, regardless of any price changes or alternative promotions that become available. If you want to cancel your Stray pass after paying the deposit, please check the details of Stray’s Cancellation Policy.
    
15. Promotions with free inclusions or value-adds: A value added product (which could be a pass, journey, accommodation, activity or good) is a product which is included free of charge with the purchase of another Stray product. Value-added products cannot be sold, transferred to another traveller’s name, exchanged for a refund or an alternative product. If a traveller is unable to redeem the value-add product within 18 months of the original purchase it is forfeited. Once travel has commenced, Stray’s Cancellation Policy applies and neither of the bundled products is subject to a refund. If a promotion has bespoke terms or conditions for a free or value-added offer (e.g. travel date restrictions) these will supersede our standard conditions. [term amended from 12 months to 18 months on 11 March 2020]
16. Competitions and Prizes: Stray products included as part of a competition or prize pack cannot be exchanged for cash, sold or transferred. Products must be redeemed within 12 months of the announcement or within a specific time frame if stated in the competition/prize terms, or the prize will be forfeited. These generic terms apply unless a variation is specified in the competition’s terms.
17. Privacy: When purchasing a Stray product you will only be contacted by Stray with information directly relating to the supply of the product or service you have purchased. These types of communications include booking confirmations, pre departure information and service updates before, during or after travel. Unless you have opted-in to receive other types of communications from Stray (ie. general news, offers etc) you will not be contacted by Stray. You can opt out of Stray communication by emailing us at unsubscribe@straytravel.co.nz or by using the unsubscribe link in the footer of our emails. Please note, if you do so, we will not be able to communicate with you about any service or trip updates and it becomes your responsibility to communicate with Stray. View Stray’s Privacy Policy.
18. Disputes: Should you wish to raise any issues regarding your trip, it is your responsibility to notify Stray as soon as possible so that we have every reasonable opportunity to resolve the issue.
    If you are currently travelling: Advise your Stray Guide of your concern immediately so that steps can be taken to address the matter. If you would prefer to contact Stray directly, email feedback@straytravel.com.
    If you have finished travelling: You must email feedback@straytravel.com within 28 days of the dispute in question.
    We will not consider claims that are submitted 28 days after the dispute in question. Please provide a valid email address so we can provide a written response.
19. Law: These terms and conditions apply to the extent that they are NOT inconsistent with, or in contravention of, any obligation imposed on Stray by local law in the country of travel.
20. Children: New Zealand Tours: Children aged 12-17 may travel, only if accompanied by a parent or legal guardian (The Select Tours only). Children are entitled to 15% off the full retail price of Stray Journeys Select Tour based on their age at the time of commencing travel (not booking). Australia Tours: Children aged 12-17 may travel if accompanied by a parent or legal guardian (The Select Tours only). Asia Tours: Children aged 12-17 may travel if accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. Travellers aged 16 or 17 years old can only travel alone with a signed consent form from a parent or guardian (contact Stray reservations for the form – reservations@straytravel.com). Please note: some of Stray’s accommodations in Asia are 18+ only, which means that any travellers younger than 17 may need to find alternative accommodation or stay in a private room.
21. Luggage: Luggage must be limited to one backpack, bag or case per person with a maximum weight of 15kgs as our buses have limited storage space. You may also travel with a daypack for cameras, valuables, raincoats and items you will need to access throughout the day. Stray does not take any responsibility for any damage to, or loss of, any property or personal effects under any circumstances while passengers are utilising any of the services which Stray provides or markets.
22. Fuel: We have fuel efficient buses to minimise our consumption but we reserve the right to put in place a fuel surcharge (at any time post ticket purchase) if fuel prices increase significantly during the pricing validity. Any surcharge will be payable to your Guide on your first day of travel. It will be a maximum of $30 local currency (NZD/AUD/USD) and will be clearly outlined online if initiated.
23. Water safety: During your Stray trip there are options to be involved in swimming or water based activities independent of Stray and its partners. It is the passenger’s sole responsibility to determine if he or she is qualified and capable of participating in any water activity, and he or she chooses to participate at their own discretion.
24. Fitness: Our tours are active so a reasonable amount of fitness is required. We undertake walks throughout the day to break up travel days.  If you have any concerns regarding your suitability for any of our tours, please discuss this with our reservations staff before booking.
25. Dietary requirements and allergies: Any dietary requirements or allergies must be advised upon booking so they can be catered to where possible.
26. Cancellations: If you cancel your pass or tour a cancellation fee will apply. See Stray’s Cancellation Policy.

Stray Journeys & Inclusive Tours

Stray’s standard terms and conditions outlined above apply. The below terms are in addition to our standard terms and unique to Journeys and Inclusive Tours.

1. Itinerary changes: Stray may vary itineraries, activities and transport modes at its discretion – due to the nature of our product and the environment within which we operate. However if Stray cancels a trip departure or part-thereof, the customer will be offered an alternative option or alternative travel date. If the alternative does not suit the passenger a refund will be made available (or pro-rata if only a portion of a trip is cancelled). If a trip is cancelled due to an external event outside of Stray’s control (extreme weather, natural disaster, political unrest etc.) an alternative date will be offered otherwise standard cancellation fees apply. Travel insurance is compulsory to travel with Stray and customers should ensure their policy covers them for protection against unpredictable events.
2. Included: Transport, Guide, accommodation, activities and meals as specified in the itinerary. Meals are stipulated on your selected itinerary: (B) = Breakfast, (L) = Lunch and (D) = Dinner.
3. Accommodation: Accommodation is included at each overnight stop – in NZ most trips do not include the last night’s accommodation in our final destination. In Australia they do, except for the Cassowary Tour.  Linen is provided free of charge at all overnight stops. Upgrades to a private room are limited but may be available upon request. En-suite rooms are not guaranteed with upgrades.  If booking an accommodation upgrade, please note that there are some exclusions: Hahei, Doubtful Sound, Blue Duck Station in NZ, Whitsunday sailing in Australia and our homestays in Asia.
4. Reconfirm your departure: Please reconfirm your departure date and pick-up location by contacting our Reservations Team on +64 (0) 9 526 2149  or reservations@straytravel.com 7 days prior to your departure. This will allow us to confirm your pick-up time and let you know of any important information relating to your trip.
5. Accommodation with Children: Any person or group travelling with a child or children (aged 7-17) is required to upgrade their Stray Journeys Tour accommodation to a private room. Private rooms will be provided for all locations except Hahei and Doubtful Sound which will be shared. This is for the safety and comfort of both parties.
6. Changing a start date: Changes are permitted up to 31 days prior to the original date of departure, providing your tour is paid for in full. The new requested departure date is subject to availability and must be within 18 months of your original booking. If the rate of the new departure costs more than the original, you will be required to pay the difference. If the rate of the new departure cost less, any due rebate would be calculated as the difference less the applicable cancellation fee on the original booking. Upgrades to twin/single rooms are subject to availability and not guaranteed. If an upgrade is not available on the new departure date this portion may be refunded at Stray’s discretion.
7. Changing to an alternative product: If you wish to change to an alternative Stray Journey, you may do so provided the original booking and has been paid for in full. If you are upgrading to a higher value pass, you will be required to pay the difference. If you are downgrading to a lower value product, any due rebate would be calculated as the difference less the applicable cancellation fee on the original booking.
8. Minimum numbers: Departures require a minimum number of passengers to operate. In circumstances where minimum numbers are not reached an alternative departure date will be offered or a full refund. Passengers will be notified by email at least 31 days in advance of such changes.
9. Cancellations: If you cancel your Journey a cancellation fee will apply. Stray’s Cancellation Policy

STRAY’S SPECIAL AMENDMENT & CREDIT POLICY

Our Special Amendment and Credit Policy was developed on 16 March 2020, during the global COVID-19 pandemic to allow you to confidently defer your trip until you are able travel again.

Applies to: All customers with a Stray pass or tour purchased between 16 March 2019 and October 31 2020 and includes customers who have not yet selected a travel date.

Validity: Use credit to start travel any time before 31 December 2025.

Travellers who have not yet started travelling can:  

• Change their start date free of charge as many times as they like
• Book another start date to travel anytime before 31 December 2025
• Can swap their booking for a credit of the price paid, to travel on any product that Stray offers in any region before 31 December 2025.

Travellers that had their trip cut short after starting due to travel restrictions imposed due to coronavirus in 2020:

• Travellers who travelled less than 25% of their trip are eligible for 100% credit.
• Travellers who travelled more than 25% of their trip are eligible for a travel credit with Stray pro-rata for the unused portion of the trip. This credit can be used to travel on any product that Stray offers in any region.
• Credit must be used to start a new trip before 31 December 2025.

Credit Terms and Conditions: 

1. Open-Dated Bookings will be credited with the amount paid at the time of booking.
2. Credit can be used for any Stray trip, in any region Stray operates in.
3. If the customer wants to travel in a different region, the credit will be converted to the relevant currency (NZD for New Zealand trips, AUD for Australian trips, USD for Asia trips) at the rate that was correct on the original date of purchase.
4. If the new trip costs more, you can pay the difference. If it costs less, leftover credit can be gifted to a friend.
5. Credit is subject to Stray’s Cancellation Policy at the time the original booking was made.
6. Customers who booked via an agent can apply directly to Stray for credit. Stray will validate this with the original booking agent. Once credit is validated, the customer can rebook a trip with Stray directly.

‘Amendments’ to change dates, and a ‘Credit’ option, offer customers flexibility and an alternative option to cancellation. For cancellations, Stray’s Cancellation Policy applies.

 STRAY’S CANCELLATION POLICY

Standard Cancellation Policy applies for: Stray Journeys Adventure Tours and Select Tours, Stray Freestyle Passes, Arrival Packs and Day Trips.

If you have paid the $200 deposit to secure your seat and departure date, or made full payment and you need to cancel your booking, we have a couple of options available.

1. a)If you cancel your tour booking31 days or more before your confirmed departure date:

• If you’ve booked direct with Stray and made full payment, the cancellation is free of charge and you will be refunded in full (less any applicable credit card fees).
• If you’ve booked direct with Stray and paid the $200 deposit, you will be refunded in full minus the non-refundable $200 deposit.
• If you’ve booked with an agent, you will need to go back to your agent to find out their cancellation terms.

1. b)If you cancel your tour booking30 days or less before your confirmed departure date:

• If cancelled or you do not show up, 100% of the tour price (full payment) is non-refundable or transferable.

Cancellations should be made with your original booking agent who may charge an additional fee and/or have their own refund/credit policies. If you booked online please contact reservations@straytravel.com.

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