Vietnam Stray Hanoi to Ho Chi Min Select Tour

Welcome to Vietnam! Depending on your arrival time, you may have a chance to begin exploring Hanoi – a lively capital known for its ancient temples, colonial architecture, and fascinating cultural blend. Wander through the maze-like streets of the Old Quarter, or unwind by the peaceful Hoan Kiem Lake. In the evening, meet your Tour Leader and fellow travellers before setting out on an orientation walk to discover some of the city’s key highlights.

Inclusions: Orientation Tour.

Accommodation: Hong Ngoc Cochinchine Hotel

Today we’ll make our way to Ninh Binh, the home of the stunning Trang An Grottoes. On arrival, we’ll venture out in traditional canoes to discover the caves in the mountains where we’ll see stony outcrops and dramatic karst formations towering above flat tranquil waters and rice paddies. This evening we’ll enjoy Ninh Binh which is nestled amongst rice paddies, rural plains and massive mountains creating a picturesque landscape to enjoy.

Inclusions: Trang An Grottoes Boat Tour. Meals: (B). Accommodation: Yen Nhi Hotel

Today we’ll depart rural Ninh Binh and make our way to the world famous Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its iconic limestone pillars and tiny islets topped with lush forest. On this overnight boat we’ll cruise along emerald waters and enjoy the peace and beauty of this stunning natural wonder of the world.

Inclusions: Overnight Cruise. Meals: (B,L,D). Accommodation: Boat Cabin

This morning we’ll wake on the boat in paradise. After spending the morning in Halong Bay, we’ll make our way back to the mainland and back to Hanoi where we’ll board the overnight train to Phong Nha Ke National Park.

Inclusions: Overnight Train. Meals: (B). Accommodation: Overnight Train Cabin

Today we’ll arrive in Phong Nha where we’ll enjoy the spectacular rural area of Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park. This area has pristine rivers (perfect for a refreshing dip or kayak) and boasts a number of impressive caves, including the recently discovered Thien Duong Cave. Inside you’ll find glittering limestone walls, impressive stalagmites and stalactites and a limestone waterfall. This afternoon you have the option to go on a guided tour of the ‘Dark Cave’, suitably named as such because the rock is black. This is an exciting adventure where you’ll explore the cave’s darkness with the help of a head torch, discover ancient fossils and slide down muddy ridges, all while Asian bats fly overhead. Afterwards, back at the mouth of the cave you can wash off all the mud by spending the afternoon swimming and playing in the river.

Inclusions: Thien Duong Cave + Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park. Meals: (B). Accommodation: Phong Nha Farm Stay

This morning we’ll depart the stunning National Park and make our way to Hue, a gorgeous city located on the Perfume River. Surrounded by rolling hills, Hue is regarded as the cultural and spiritual centre of Vietnam and is the former home to the Vietnamese emperors.

Meals: (B). Accommodation: Alba Spa Hotel

Today we’ll take a motorbike tour around Hue where we’ll get to explore this stunning area. We’ll see many elaborately decorated temples and beautiful pagodas, including the seven-storied Thien Mu Pagoda (where the most famous Vietnamese monk is buried), the intricate Citadel and Forbidden Purple City. We’ll also get to see a little bit of the ‘real’ Vietnam, motoring through quaint villages and lush rice paddies, we’ll see the historic and picturesque Japanese covered bridge, hear about our future from a local fortune teller, have a go at making incense sticks and learn about the rice growing process at the Rice Museum. We’ll also visit the home of a conical hat maker and explore an Emperor’s Tomb and the Citadel’s Forbidden City.

Our drive today takes us to the popular tourist spot and UNESCO World Heritage town of Hoi An, a must-see destination with beautifully restored and preserved French Colonial architecture, funky bars, outstanding restaurants, art galleries, souvenir shops and countless tailor shops. With glorious beaches so close nearby, this is paradise! A great spot to enjoy the local nightlife, try local delicacies (and beers), then meander home through the motorbike free streets.

Inclusions: Orientation Walk.

Meals: (B).

Accommodation: Emm Hotel Hoi An

Take time today to explore this charming town’s many offerings. When the sun goes down is when Hoi An really turns on its charm. Paper and fabric lanterns are lit throughout the streets, bathing the historical French Colonial architecture in a warm glow. Take a sunset stroll through the old town, and try a local delicacy called the ‘White Rose’ – a dumpling stuffed with shrimp or pork bunched into the shape of a rose. Apparently, the recipe is a family secret, held by only one family who supply all the restaurants around town.

Inclusions: Free day. Meals: (B). Accommodation: Emm Hotel Hoi An

Hoi An is full of so many options to experience and enjoy. Rent bikes and cycle down to relax at the beach, visit some of the many talented tailors and purchase some clothes, take part in a cooking class or enjoy some sweet Vietnamese coffee in a riverside cafe.

Inclusions: Free day. Meals: (B). Accommodation: Emm Hotel Hoi An

Today we’ll leave Hoi An and make our way to the gorgeous fishing village of Bai Xep. On our way, we’ll make a stop to visit the My Lai Memorial, a site that commemorates an event that marked a turning point in the American War. Our destination for the next few days is Bai Xep, located along a stretch of sandy white beach. Kick back and relax in this peaceful village setting well off the beaten tourist track and as yet untouched by rampant tourism. Don’t be surprised when the locals wave and greet you with welcoming smiles.

Inclusions: My Lai Memorial. Meals: (B). Accommodation Mira Bai Xep

Today you are free to enjoy this remote coastal location and all it has to offer. Swim, snorkel and take long walks on the beach, learn to paddle a traditional round boat, go fishing and cook your catch for tea, or just relax at your comfortable seaside guesthouse.

Inclusions: Beach day. Meals: (B). Accommodation: Mira Bai Xep

Today you have another full day to enjoy some beach time. Wander the village and get to know the friendly locals or partake in some delicious cocktails at your accommodation.

Inclusions: Beach day. Meals: (B). Accommodation: Mira Bai Xep

Today we’ll enjoy our final morning in Bai Xep, go for a last stroll around the village, say goodbye to the locals and make the most of the beach. This afternoon we’ll make our way to Dieu Tri where we’ll board the overnight train to Ho Chi Minh City, our last destination in Vietnam.

Inclusions: Overnight train. Meals: (B). Accommodation: Overnight Train Cabin

This morning we’ll arrive in lively Ho Chi Minh City. Head to the War Remnant Museum and learn about the history of the American and Vietnam War, visit the French Colonial Saigon Opera House, browse the surrounding shopping plazas or go and see a cultural show. Ho Chi Minh even has its own Notre Dame Cathedral, which is said to be a connection between the physical and spiritual life for the Ho Chi Minh people. We recommend taking a trip out to the famous Cu Chi Tunnels, a complex of over 200kms of tunnels used by the Viet Khong in the war against the US. Discover how the people lived and survived in these tunnels, built schools and hospitals underground and eventually gained victory. This evening enjoy a traditional performance at the Water Puppet Theatre, or dine out on delicious street food at one of the city’s many restaurants or bars.

Inclusions: Free Day. Meals: (B). Accommodation: Queen Ann Hotel

Today your journey with Stray comes to an end. Whether you’re spending some extra time in Vietnam 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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