Vietnam : Wonders and Waterways Escorted Group Tour 9 March 2018

Flower seller in Hanoi, Vietnam

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Contents

Introduction to tour ______5 Flights & visas ______8 Day by day summary of our Vietnam : Wonders and Waterways arrangements ______9 Price ______11 Why travel with us? ______12 Introduction to the region ______13 Photographs of the region ______16 Your itinerary in detail ______18 Accommodation information ______29 Charity support ______36 General information ______37 Terms and conditions ______41

Meet our Indochina Specialists

We have a team of Indochina specialists who are all passionate about the region. Many of us have returned multiple times, to explore the region and enhance our specialist knowledge. We have tried all the different excursions from rice planting and fishing near Hoi An in Vietnam, to cycling round the temples of Angkor in Cambodia and cooking classes in Luang Prabang in Laos. We have also stayed in all of the accommodation we recommend from luxurious Aman resorts to simple homestays. We are confident we know the region better than anyone and can therefore make the best recommendations for your trip.

4 Meet our specialists Introduction to our Vietnam : Wonders and Waterways tour

 Introduction to the tour This tour takes you to Audley's first-ever destination: Vietnam. We have designed a tour, led by an experienced and knowledgeable local guide, that takes in Vietnam's cultural and scenic highlights with extended time to fully explore Halong Bay and the Mekong Delta. Arriving in the capital Hanoi, you have three nights to uncover the inherent charm of this developing, energetic city before experiencing the popular World Heritage Site of Halong Bay. Halong appears in most Vietnam tours for good reason, but we include two nights on a traditional junk to enable you to see the bay at its quietest. Whilst the majority of boats return to shore, enjoy a morning exploring the majestic limestone islets without the crowds. From Halong to historic Hue: you fly to central Vietnam for an introduction to the country's imperial past with visits to the impressive mausoleums of past Emperors. On to Hoi An where you have ample time to absorb the beguiling atmosphere and visit some of the UNESCO-protected buildings before ending your tour in the cosmopolitan city of Saigon.

 Home truths We aim to provide accurate and detailed information and to make you aware of the less positive aspects of the journey you are undertaking, some facts you should be aware of are outlined below:

One of the key elements to consider when travelling in Vietnam is the weather. The answer is to expect the unexpected in Vietnam, while we can offer advice to optimise your enjoyment of particular areas you must be prepared to encounter some inclement weather during your stay. Please see the following pages for more information on weather.

The traffic in Hanoi and Saigon is particularly congested and crossing the road can be quite challenging! Always take the advice of your tour guide, and do as the locals do: walk calmly and purposefully in a straight line without stopping. The traffic will swerve around you!

 Single travellers Although we welcome single travellers, due to the complicated logistics of this tour, the single supplement can make this an expensive option. There are two options for single travellers; you can choose to share a room with another single traveller on the tour and pay the standard tour price (this option will only be available if another single traveller of the same sex is also willing to share otherwise the single supplement will apply), or you may choose to guarantee sole occupancy of a room by paying the supplement. Please note that due to limited numbers of rooms at some of the lodges on the tour, we are only able to accept a maximum of two single travellers unless you are prepared to share a room.

Group size

The group size is kept to a maximum of 16, this ensures that the trip is a more personal experience and that you can always hear and speak to your guides. The small group size also ensures that your experience of a particular sight is not marred by presence of too many people.

There is a minimum requirement of eight passengers to run this tour, so the first eight people to book will be done so on a provisional basis until minimum numbers are reached. Deposits for those first eight people will be fully refunded should the tour not operate.

 Local guides An experienced English-speaking local guide will meet you on arrival in Vietnam and travel with you throughout your trip assisting the group in any way needed. All of our guides are carefully selected for their in-depth knowledge, interpretation, and ability to manage large groups as well as their skills as charming hosts.

 Dining All meals on-board the Au Co and daily breakfasts, six lunches (one of these will be picnic style) and four dinners are included in the tour. Other meals will be at your own arrangement and expense. Restaurant recommendations will be provided for your benefit.

 Extending your trip You have the option to extend your trip, maybe with a few days relaxing by the beach or discovering a nearby region on a short tour. On any extension, you will be looked after by our carefully selected local agent. Please contact Mark, Laura, Glynn, Will or Alex on 01993 838 140 to discuss options.

Introduction to our Vietnam : Wonders and Waterways tour 5 Introduction to our Vietnam : Wonders and Waterways tour

 Health & fitness requirements To ensure that all participants get the most out of the tour, it is important that you are fully aware of the level of activity and fitness and medical health required to successfully complete this itinerary. Please read this dossier carefully prior to confirming your place on the tour, and having established the facts, it is your responsibility to contact us with any concerns regarding individual levels of fitness, health or ability. Please be aware that our tour leaders have the right to exclude customers from the tour if they feel they are not sufficiently fit, healthy or able to complete the tour without affecting its safety, comfort or smooth progress. If you would like to discuss any of these issues further please call Will, Glynn or Alex on 01993 838 140 to discuss options.

 Activity level - Low The vast majority of this trip does not require any significant level of physical fitness or agility but you should be physically active. However, there are a few elements which involve getting in and out of boats or walking on rough uneven paths and so a certain degree of physical dexterity will be required. An experienced guide will be on hand to help anyone should they need it. Some excursions also involve an option to climb steps or paths which may be steep, loose and/or wet underfoot. You should also be aware and prepared for the following on this trip:

* Some of the roads in Vietnam are poorly maintained making some journeys quite bumpy.

* The itinerary includes boarding and disembarking a variety of boats. Assistance will be given however please advise us if you are unsteady on your feet.

* It may on occasion be necessary to carry your own luggage through airports or from the vehicles to hotels and vice versa.

Please also refer to the General Information section for further information on health requirements for group tours.

Visas Vietnam Effective as of 1 July, 2016 visitors from the U.K., France, Germany, Spain and Italy will be permitted to travel in Vietnam visa free for up to 15 days. If visitors from these five nations wish to travel in Vietnam for more than 15 days, you will still need to apply for a visa, as no extensions to visa waivers will be granted. Please note that after visiting Vietnam with a visa waiver, and after exiting the country, you will need to wait at least 30 days before re-entering Vietnam visa free again. This exemption applies to all border crossings (land or air).

Visas are required for stays of more than 15 days or for multiple entry in to Vietnam, and we can help you obtain these up to six months in advance of travel. If you choose to purchase your visas through us, we will send you the appropriate forms approximately three months prior to travel and you can apply for the visa using our external visa service. Your passport will be required for a few days for the visa to be stamped in. Ordinary single entry tourist visas are normally valid for one calendar month. Longer duration, business and multiple entry visas can also be arranged. Please ask your specialist for price details.

**As of 1st February 2017 Vietnamese electronic visas are now available to the citizens of 40 countries, including the UK, France, Germany, Italy, and the US. After travellers upload passport photos and personal details to the Vietnamese government website, the electronic visa system will send a response within three (3) business days. The electronic visas are valid for 30 days, are single-entry, and there is a non-refundable $25 fee which must be paid in advance.

There are two official websites where travellers can apply for Vietnamese electronic visas: www.immigration.gov.vn and www.xuatnhapcanh.gov.vn. In the first few days of operation, there have been reports that the websites are crashing due to the high volume of traffic.

If you are arriving into Vietnam by air, it is also possible to obtain a visa on arrival, but this still involves arranging some paperwork before you leave the UK, and can mean hanging around in a queue on your arrival into Vietnam. If you do wish to obtain your visa on arrival please allow us to arrange the paperwork for you. As of the 23rd of November 2015 a fee of $25USD will be required by the Vietnamese immigration authorities in order to process a visa on arrival. If you have incorrect documentation you may find you are not allowed to board your flight to Vietnam.

It is important that your passport is stamped on entry and exit from Vietnam; we recommend that you insist on this to avoid any further fees for onward travel.

6 Introduction to our Vietnam : Wonders and Waterways tour Introduction to our Vietnam : Wonders and Waterways tour

Please note your passport must be valid for six months after the date of return to the UK and you must have at least two full blank pages available.

Important Note: We cannot under any circumstances guarantee that your visa application for any country will be accepted. However, in our experience refusals are extremely rare. Visa information is given in good faith and is accurate to the best of our knowledge.

Introduction to our Vietnam : Wonders and Waterways tour 7 Important Information

FLIGHTS We are currently not holding any international flights for you.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION Vietnam IMPORTANT: Zika virus outbreak Cases of Zika virus have recently been reported in Vietnam. Like dengue fever and yellow fever, this is transmitted by the Aedes mosquito. Whilst the condition itself is relatively mild, there is thought to be a link between Zika virus infection and abnormalities in newborn babies. Infection is therefore a risk for anyone who is pregnant or may be planning on becoming pregnant.

If you have any medical questions at all we advise that you seek professional advice from your doctor.

8 Important Information Day by day summary

1 Friday 09 Depart London Heathrow bound for Singapore and on to Overnight on board the aircraft March 2018 Hanoi with Singapore Airlines.

2 Saturday 10 On arrival in Hanoi you will be met and transferred to your Sofitel Legend Metropole, March 2018 hotel. You have the afternoon free so take time to relax after Hanoi your flights. Grand Premium room, Opera Wing This evening a welcome dinner has been arranged at the Ly Welcome dinner included Club for the group, giving you a chance to get to know one another.

3 Sunday 11 Today you will visit the main sights of Hanoi including Ho Chi Sofitel Legend Metropole, March 2018 Minh`s mausoleum, railway market and the Temple of Hanoi Literature. In the afternoon embark on a fascinating street Grand Premium room, Opera food tour with a local guide. Wing Breakfast is included at the hotel and street food lunch

4 Monday 12 After breakfast the group departs to Halong Bay by road in Au Co, Halong City March 2018 time to board the Au Co boat for a two night cruise around Deluxe cabin the limestone islets of this UNESCO protected World All meals included today Heritage Site.

5 Tuesday 13 Enjoy a full day cruising on the Au Co. Au Co, Halong City March 2018 Deluxe cabin All meals are included

6 Wednesday 14 After cruising back to Halong City, the group will disembark La Residence Hotel & Spa, Hue March 2018 the boat and return to Hanoi via the village of Vinh Bao. This Deluxe river view room small village has retained the tradition of water puppetry and Breakfast, picnic lunch and the villagers take great delight in demonstrating their skills dinner at local restaurant with a short performance. You will be provided with a picnic included lunch today. Continue on to Hanoi for your evening flight to Hue.

7 Thursday 15 A morning of exploring Hue`s imperial past with a boat trip La Residence Hotel & Spa, Hue March 2018 along the Perfume River to visit Minh Mang`s mausoleum and Deluxe river view room the Thien Mu Pagoda. Enjoy lunch at the Tha Om Garden Breakfast is included at hotel House before having the rest of the afternoon at leisure. and lunch at local restaurant

8 Friday 16 Today you will travel from Hue to Hoi An over the Hai Van Hotel Royal Hoi An March 2018 pass, before enjoying a relaxing dinner at the hotel. Royal Deluxe Room Breakfast and dinner included today

9 Saturday 17 This morning you will journey out to My Son, a Cham temple Hotel Royal Hoi An March 2018 site uncovered from the surrounding jungle. Afterwards you Royal Deluxe Room will return to Hoi An for a short walking tour of the old Breakfast at hotel and evening quarter. A dinner cruise has been arranged this evening. dinner cruise included

10 Sunday 18 You will have the full day free to explore the charming Hotel Royal Hoi An March 2018 riverside town of Hoi An at your own leisure. Royal Deluxe Room Breakfast is included

11 Monday 19 Fly to Saigon and transfer to the town of Cai Be in the Cruise: Bassac Boat, Saigon March 2018 Mekong Delta to board the Bassac Boat, a converted rice Standard barge for your two night cruise. All meals included

Day by day summary 9 Day by day summary

12 Tuesday 20 On day two of the cruise, after a visit to the Cai Rang floating Cruise: Bassac Boat, Saigon March 2018 market, cruise along the river Bassac. Explore a local bamboo Standard weaving village near Thot Not bird sanctuary giving you All meals included chance to see the egrets flying overhead on their return to their nests for the night.

13 Wednesday 21 You disembark the Bassac boat today at Sa Dec, and then Intercontinental Asiana, Saigon March 2018 return to Saigon. This is a relatively long drive, so no specific Club Deluxe activities are arranged for this afternoon. You may find you Breakfast on boat and lunch at have a bit of time to spend exploring the city for some local restaurant included shopping opportunities or simply relaxing by the pool.

14 Thursday 22 This morning you will visit the Cu chi tunnels. These Viet Intercontinental Asiana, Saigon March 2018 Cong tunnels are a must for anyone with an interest in war Club Deluxe history. Afterwards you finally see the sights of Saigon. This Breakfast at hotel and farewell tour will include the Notre Dame cathedral, the Opera house dinner at local restaurant and the reunification Palace. A farewell dinner has been included arranged at the Ly Club.

15 Friday 23 You have the day at leisure today. A late check-out is Breakfast included at the hotel March 2018 provided for your convenience before your afternoon transfer to the airport for your flight from Saigon to Overnight on board the aircraft Singapore and on to London with Singapore Airlines.

16 Saturday 24 Welcome home! March 2018

10 Day by day summary Prices

Arrangements as specified per person ______£4,960 ...... Please note the following supplements and/or upgrade options per person: Single Supplement ______£2,100 ...... Per person deposit required to confirm these arrangements ______£744 Optional carbon off-setting for your flights per person (see General Information section for further details) ____ £25 The deposit required is detailed above and relates to the itinerary detailed in this quotation. In most cases the deposit is 15% of the total cost or £200 per person (whichever is the greater), however in some instances a larger deposit is required in order to secure particular services. Please refer to the Terms and Conditions section at the back of this booklet. Please note if you confirm your booking within 60 days of your departure date full payment is required at the time of booking. By paying the deposit you are confirming you have read and agree to our Terms and Conditions on behalf of all persons named on the booking.

How to book Included in the price If you have any questions regarding the tour or would like to  All flights as specified in the itinerary hold a no obligation option for a place on the tour, please  Twin share accommodation as specified feel free to contact one of our Vietnam specialists on 01993  All transfers and excursions as specified 838 140 who will be delighted to assist you. To confirm an  Services of experienced local guides option, please send us a completed booking form and the  Sightseeing and entrance fees deposit specified above. The deposit can be paid by cheque,  Meals as specified in the itinerary bank transfer or credit / debit card. Please make cheques payable to Audley Travel. Please see below for more Not included in the price information on paying by credit card.  Meals not indicated within your itinerary

 Where applicable, local airport departure taxes; payable Payment by credit card locally on departure in some locations Please note that we do not charge a fee on deposit payments by credit card, except when a deposit is more than 15%. In  Where applicable, locally payable car hire related this situation a charge will apply. Credit card fees are charges, including optional excess reduction detailed on the booking form. Balance or full payment is  Items of a personal nature such as laundry, drinks, etc. subject to a 1.20% fee on most credit cards, except for  Tips for your guide and driver (discretionary) AMEX which is 2.00%. We make a credit card charge due to  Any camera or video fees at any sites the high fees passed on to tour operators by the credit card  Entrance fees and other costs when on 'free time’ companies: we do not make a profit on this charge. We have  Travel insurance (see general information section) chosen to make this transparent rather than including it within the trip price. You may therefore wish to pay the balance by bank transfer, debit card or personal cheque.

Terms and Conditions The Terms and Conditions that apply to all of our holidays are detailed at the back of this booklet. By paying the deposit you are confirming you have read and accept the Terms and Conditions on behalf of all persons named on the booking.

Prices 11 Why travel with us?

Personal service Detailed travel documents A smooth journey We are committed to offering you a Approximately two weeks before you We have procedures in place for very personal service, with all your travel we will send you all your travel dealing quickly and efficiently with arrangements handled by one country documents presented in a convenient mishaps from minor flight time specialist. They will remain your one travel organiser. In addition to your full alterations to more fundamental point of contact and will take itinerary and airplane tickets, there will changes. If problems do occur we will responsibility for the smooth operation also be additional information such as rapidly rearrange your itinerary to of your trip. They are supported by a recommended restaurants and practical make the best use of your time given team of specialists for that region and a tips. A few days before you travel your the changed circumstances, not simply professional administration and specialist will call you to have a final talk cancel part of your trip or leave you management team. through your itinerary and answer any sitting in an airport waiting for hours last-minute questions you may have. for a rescheduled flight. Importantly, in From the moment you contact us, we these situations we will do everything are here to answer your questions You can also view your itinerary on our possible to minimise any extra costs accurately and honestly, be they about Travel Companion app for your involved – in the vast majority of cases specific arrangements or any more convenience. no extra charges will be made. If a general queries you may have. This problem does occur while you are level of service is followed through travelling you can contact us on our from enquiry to booking right to when 24-hour number. you return from your trip. We are experienced travellers with a thorough and in-depth knowledge of our destinations, and you benefit from this Responsible travel experience. When we do not know the We have a firm commitment to answer to a question we will find out minimising the environmental impact of and get back to you as soon as travel, and strive to ensure that a visit possible. from an Audley client has a positive effect on the destination. We have a firm commitment to the principles of “responsible travel” and work with Reputation and quality Support while you’re away AITO, and a number of other bodies, Well over 80% of our clients have We take a good deal of care when to continually improve our policies. travelled with us in the past or have choosing our travel partners overseas, For more details please refer to our had Audley recommended to them. taking into account their quality of website: www.audleytravel.com/rt When you book with us you are service, guides and vehicles. We have where you will find details of our assured of quality arrangements. Our built up many long-standing responsible travel policy and also our service has been recognised by the relationships, ensuring that they deliver Travellers’ Code. If you are particularly readers of well-known publications the level of service demanded by interested in these issues, your country including the Guardian & Observer, the Audley clients. Our local guides and specialist will be able to tell you more. Telegraph, the Times and Wanderlust drivers, where appropriate, are the magazine, where we have consistently people you will meet. In many cases we featured in their “best tour operator” know them personally; in all cases we awards for a number of years. We are ensure that they are of the highest also a Which? recommended company, calibre. They are there to do much assuring you of our service and quality. more than show you specific sights and provide factual information. They will be able to tell you about local life, culture, cuisines and customs, and, where applicable, act as translators. In certain parts of the world a specialist guide is more appropriate, for example, a wildlife expert.

[ 12 Why travel with us? Introduction to Vietnam

Key facts: Population: 85.79 million Currency: Vietnamese Dong Land area: 329.56 thousand square kilometres Time difference: GMT+7 hours Major languages spoken: Vietnamese, English and French Capital city: Hanoi

Introduction From the remote mist-shrouded mountains of the north to the rich and fertile lowlands of the Mekong Delta, Vietnam is hauntingly beautiful. Patchworks of brilliant green rice paddies fade into the mountainous horizon and reach down to sweeping deserted beaches characteristic of the dramatic coastline. Set in this scenically stunning land, the historic towns and sleepy fishing villages encapsulate the bygone charm of Asia’s past. Friendly and incredibly hospitable people invite you into their homes to sip tea and chat about life in their fascinating country. These chance encounters will leave lasting memories that will always tempt you to return.

One of the key elements to consider when travelling in Vietnam is the weather, which is as diverse as the land and its people! Notoriously difficult to predict with any accuracy owing to the several microclimates and the conflicting monsoons patterns that affect the weather, Vietnam has become even more unreliable in recent years as a result of global warming. The winter months of 2007/08 were especially harsh, with some of the worst weather in the region for over 40 years. Historically speaking, the north, the south and the central regions all have different weather patterns. The north and south are generally wet, hot and humid in our summer months, with the central region being hot and dry then. In our winter months the central region is monsoonal, experiencing strong typhoons on occasions. At this time the north will be cold and possibly experience some slight rain, while the south will be warm and dry. The answer is to expect the unexpected in Vietnam. While we can offer advice to optimise your enjoyment of particular areas, you must be prepared to encounter some inclement weather during your stay. Conditions may change locally with little prior notice, which may occasionally affect the feasibility of certain parts of your itinerary; all we ask is that you travel with an open-minded approach and are prepared to be flexible in the unlikely eventuality of necessary itinerary changes. In short, there is no perfect time to visit Vietnam and as such there is no real worst time to visit, making tours of the country possible virtually all year.

Yellow fever: please note that if you are travelling to Vietnam from a country that is considered to have a risk of yellow fever by the World Health Organization (WHO), then you may be asked to provide proof of vaccination against the disease upon arrival. Please see the 'populations at risk' section of the WHO website for further details and consult with your GP for up-to- date advice: www.who.int/mediacentre/factsheets/fs100/en/index.html.

J F M A M J J A S O N D

Avg Max Day Temperature (0C)

Avg Min Night Temperature (0C) Halong City Avg Hours of Sunshine

Monthly Rainfall (mm) 26 29 42 89 168 242 261 309 215 125 60 25

J F M A M J J A S O N D

Avg Max Day Temperature (0C)

Avg Min Night Temperature (0C) Hanoi Avg Hours of Sunshine

Monthly Rainfall (mm) 22 28 42 97 181 242 258 297 225 125 57 19

Introduction to the region 13 Introduction to Vietnam

J F M A M J J A S O N D

Avg Max Day Temperature (0C)

Avg Min Night Temperature (0C) Hoi An Avg Hours of Sunshine

Monthly Rainfall (mm) 92 32 30 34 56 99 90 104 297 526 363 206

J F M A M J J A S O N D

Avg Max Day Temperature (0C)

Avg Min Night Temperature (0C) Saigon Avg Hours of Sunshine

Monthly Rainfall (mm) 15 8 23 63 183 261 257 249 270 255 156 65

14 Introduction to the region Introduction to Vietnam

Introduction to the region 15 Introduction to Vietnam

Top: Local cyclist, Hoi An Left: Lanterns in the Old Town, Hoi An Lower left: Halong Bay, Vietnam

16 Photographs of the region Introduction to Vietnam

Top: Hanoi locals burning fake money in celebration of Tet Left: Thien Mu Pagoda, Hue Right: Thien Hau Temple, Saigon

Photographs of the region 17 Itinerary in Detail

Friday London Heathrow Terminal: 2 to Singapore Changi airport 09 March, 2018 Singapore Airlines - Flight No: SQ 317 - Dep: 10:55 - Arr: 07:50 - (next day) - Duration: 12hr 55min; Class: Economy; Non-stop flight

Saturday Singapore Changi airport Terminal: 2 to Hanoi Terminal: 2 10 March, 2018 Singapore Airlines - Flight No: SQ 176 - Dep: 09:20 - Arr: 11:40 - (same day) - Duration: 03hr 20min; Class: Economy; Non-stop flight

Sofitel Legend Metropole,

Hanoi Hanoi introduction Street vendors and fruit sellers are tangled amongst the rabbit warren of streets;

watch your step as you dodge scooters, bikes and uneven pavements and take a deep breath as you cross the road - this is Hanoi with all the charm of an Asian city. Beautiful tree lined boulevards and grandiose lakes overlooked by faded French villas conjure up images of Hanoi’s colonial past. Close to Ho Chi Minh’s imposing mausoleum stands the grand former residence of French Governors. Today the residence entertains visiting foreign dignitaries; in its shadow sits the simple wooden stilted house where Ho Chi Minh lived until his death in 1969.

For breakfast, you can join the locals at one of the small food stalls for a bowl of Pho, traditional Vietnamese noodle soup. During the day, wander the Old Quarter West Lake, Hanoi discovering traditional medicine shops, and age old temples hidden in the busy

market streets, and in the evening relax in the cosmopolitan atmosphere of a jazz bar beside the central Hoan Kiem Lake.

The atmosphere and climate in Hanoi means it may not be a suitable city for prolonged periods of stay for those with severe breathing difficulties.

Hoan Kiem Lake, Hanoi

Arrival transfer from airport to hotel group tour transfer Upon arrival, once all members of the group have cleared any airport immigration formalities and collected luggage, you will be met and transferred to your accommodation for check-in.

Early check-in provided. Welcome dinner provided at the Ly Club

18 Itinerary in Detail Itinerary in Detail

Sunday Full day exploring Hanoi 11 March, 2018 group tour excursion with English speaking guide Explore the highlights of Hanoi today with this full day tour. This morning the

Sofitel Legend Metropole, group will visit Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum and museum before continuing on to the Hanoi Temple of Literature. Later you set off on a street food tour of Hanoi's best culinary spots with a food blogger. Having a special passion for Vietnamese food

and culture, the food blogger has started to document his food and culture adventures since 2005. With hands-on experience in managing some of Hanoi's finest dining establishments along with his strong interest in Hanoi's street food, the street food blogger will give you an insight into Hanoi's food scene and an elaborate explanation of Vietnamese practices.

Stroll through the Old Quarter and head to Thanh Ha market where you will try local delicacies and strange food items that you may never have seen before. The market scene is permeated with the typical sights and sounds of Hanoi that depict the essence of Vietnamese culture. Railway market, Hanoi

Monday Hanoi to Halong Bay by road 12 March, 2018 group tour transfer The four hour drive to Halong City takes you through dramatic paddy-field scenery

Au Co, Halong City interspersed with newer industrial areas built to power the modern Vietnamese society. En route you will pass grazing water buffalo, farmers knee-deep in mud

stooped over rice paddies wearing traditional conical hats, and scooters and bicycles loaded with anything and everything (from cages full of live chickens to a precariously balanced fridge/freezer). There will be a short comfort stop at one of the tourist souvenir shops en route, where you can purchase snacks and drinks as well as gifts to take home.

*Please note that during TET journey times can be significantly longer due to traffic.

Sunset, Halong Bay

Halong City introduction Halong City, formerly the two towns of Bai Chay and Hon Gai, is the traditional starting point for cruises of Halong Bay. With thousands of islets formed over millions of years, Halong Bay is one of Southeast Asia's iconic landscapes, and was designated a World Heritage Site in 1994. Cruising the calm waters, you will see a number of fishing villages, formed of floating houses and schools, set against the dramatic backdrop of towering limestone karsts.

Due to its aesthetic appeal, Halong Bay is one of the most visited areas in Vietnam, and sadly, the effects of tourism are clearly evident. Over a hundred boats ply the waters of the bay, and in May 2012, the Department of Transport brought into effect a rule requiring all Halong Bay vessels to be painted white in an attempt to smarten up the appearance of the bay. Much character has been lost and a number of the boats now look very tired as the white paint has not weathered well.

Furthermore, some of the more popular areas are polluted, and swimming is not advised. Whilst we would still encourage a visit, we feel it important to bring the realities of the area to your attention. We try to recommend cruise companies that offer a different itinerary, avoiding the most crowded parts of the bay, as well as having good crews and high safety standards.

Itinerary in Detail 19 Itinerary in Detail

Traditional junk boat at Halong Bay

Afternoon crusing on the Au Co Private cabin on a shared boat Shortly after midday the group will board the Au Co and set sail through the bay. A delicious lunch is served on board whilst you cruise towards Sung Sot (Surprise) Cave. In the afternoon you will disembark to enjoy a guided tour of Sung Sot Cave, one of the finest and largest cave systems of Halong Bay. Back on board enjoy dinner and relax with a drink as the Au Co cruises towards your overnight mooring bay.

Tuesday Full day cruising on the Au Co 13 March, 2018 private cabin on a shared boat For early risers there is the option of starting the day with a tai chi lesson on-

Au Co, Halong City board. After breakfast, the Au Co sets sail towards Lan Ha Bay. Given the bay's distance from Halong City, the 300 karst islets are not as heavily visited as other

parts of Halong Bay. The morning will be spent exploring Vung Vieng floating village by traditional bamboo boat. After lunch on board, the boat cruises towards Lan Ha Bay and Cat Ba Island for your afternoon excursions. On arrival at Cat Ba Island you will have the opportunity to join a guided biking or hiking excursion through the national park and also visit the Au Co organic farm. At sunset cocktails will be served ahead of a barbecue dinner.

Halong Bay View

20 Itinerary in Detail Itinerary in Detail

Wednesday Morning cruise on the Au Co 14 March, 2018 private cabin on a shared boat This morning the Au Co cruises back towards Halong City. Enjoy a leisurely

La Residence Hotel & breakfast and traditional tea ceremony on board before the boat docks at Halong Spa, Hue City for disembarkation.

Halong Bay to Hanoi airport with a stop at Vinh Bao Village group tour transfer After disembarking the Au Co you will transfer back to Hanoi for your flight to Hue. En route the group will stop at Vinh Bao Water Puppet Village where they are working hard to retain some of the traditions of Vietnamese culture. We have arranged an authentic water puppet performance for the group and it will last about 30 minutes and is held on an open-air stage on a small village pond. The performance is an entertaining alternative to the better-known version in Hanoi. The roots of Vietnamese water puppetry originate from old folklore and traditional Halong Bay, Vietnam tales of life in the country, so to see the show the way it was meant to be seen is a

fascinating and rewarding experience. The puppeteers who remain hidden knee- deep in water behind a bamboo screen skilfully manoeuvre their puppets with a series of underwater strings and pulleys. Dragons spout fire as water snakes are chased by irate farmers and inquisitive children. Traditional music accompanies the puppet scenes and a compere keeps the audience enthralled. On occasions the whole village turns out to watch so you may well have some additional people in the audience and our guests are always afforded a warm welcome. After the show, the group will be invited to the communal house for tea and are gifted a puppet as a souvenir from the visit. A picnic style lunch box is included today for you to enjoy whilst at the village.

Traditional water puppets

Hanoi to Hue Vietnam Airlines - Flight No: VN1545 - Dep: 20:10 - Arr: 21:20 - (same day); Class: Economy Class; Non-stop flight

Hue introduction Backed by the mountains of the Annamite Cordillera, and set on the beautiful Perfume River, this is the best place to experience the country’s imperial past. The last imperial family, the Nguyens, ruled under French protection from 1802 to 1945, and their mausoleums compete in scale and grandeur as they line the valley as it leads up to the hills.

Lavishly squandering their country’s wealth and manpower, these mausoleums are amongst the country’s most poignant sights. They are not the only attractions here,

Itinerary in Detail 21 Itinerary in Detail

though. You can board a boat and travel to the Thien Mu Pagoda, dating back to 1602, and surrounded by graceful gardens, or explore Hue’s more recent past: the former Demilitarized Zone, the atmospheric tunnels at Vinh Moc and the battle sites of Khe Sanh and the Citadel.

Ancient Citadel, Hue, Vietnam

Transfer from Hue airport to hotel group tour transfer On arrival in to Hue, once all of the group members have collected their luggage, you will be met and transferred to the hotel.

Thursday Morning visit to the Citadel 15 March, 2018 Group tour excursion with an English-speaking guide Crossing to the north bank of the Perfume River, you will enter the imposing

La Residence Hotel & moated citadel, built by Emperor Gia Long in 1804. Surrounded by walls 20 metres Spa, Hue thick, the citadel contains the Forbidden Purple City, home to the Emperor, his concubines and eunuchs. Much of the original structure was destroyed during the

Tet Offensive in 1968, although with the help of UNESCO funding it is gradually being restored to its former glory. The group will have plenty of time to explore this ancient citadel with your guide.

Lunch at Tha Om Garden House Group tour excursion with an English-speaking guide Tha Om Garden House offers an excellent opportunity to relax and enjoy traditional Vietnamese hospitality in a replica of a traditional 19th-century Hue residence. As the name suggests the house, with its number of connecting buildings local kitchen hue including a room dedicated to ancestral worship, is situated in a charming garden

containing a variety of trees, plants and a lotus pond.

Due to Hue's history of flooding the structures are built on high foundations with low, dipping roofs. The group will have the opportunity to enjoy a delicious lunch in the beautiful surroundings of Tha Om before returning to the hotel.

Half day boat trip to Minh Mang 's Mausoleum and Thien Mu Pagoda group tour excursion with an English speaking guide Transfer to the riverside in Hue where the group will board a boat for the journey up the Perfume River to the mausoleums of Nguyen Dynasty's emperors. During a

22 Itinerary in Detail Itinerary in Detail

two hour journey upriver the group will first explore Thien Mu Pagoda, a serene and picturesque landmark which is also an important Buddhist site. In 1963, Thich Quang Duc travelled in a pale blue Austin car from Pagoda An Quang to Saigon, where he then publicly burnt himself to death to protest against the anti-Buddhist stance of the President. The car in which he travelled is now permanently parked in one of the buildings in the Thien Mu complex and belonged to a Buddhist named Tran Quang Thuan. Continuing upstream, disembark at Minh Mang’s Mausoleum, set in gardens of pine and frangipani. This is a beautiful place of respite from the city in lovely surroundings. The mausoleum itself is closed to visitors and only opened up once a year to the royal family. It is said that most of the gold of the city was placed here for protection and still remains to this day. From here, you will be met by your vehicle and transferred back to Hue city.

Roof tiles at Minh Mang's tomb, Hue, Vietnam

Friday Hue to Hoi An via the Hai Van Pass 16 March, 2018 group transfer Leaving Hue, the group will travel on to Hoi An. Between the two stands the

Hotel Royal Hoi An, Hoi dramatic Hai Van pass; as you travel the winding road over the misty heights you An will be afforded wonderful views of the Lang Co peninsula. The views over the South China Sea are almost as impressive as those from the Hai Van pass. The

journey takes approximately three and a half hours.

Hoi An introduction Prior to the arrival of the French, Hoi An was Vietnam's 'window on the world'. Tucked away amongst the back streets are the houses of merchants from Asia and Europe, lured from afar by the prospect of high-grade silk and porcelain. It is an ideal spot to stop for a few days, strolling along the wharf, shopping in the market, or having a silk dress or suit fitted, and is best explored on foot and at your leisure.

Hue, Vietnam There are many restaurants, old houses, craft shops and art galleries, where local

artists exhibit their works. Take some time to enjoy a bowl of Cao Lau, a special noodle soup which is a speciality in the area. Some of the nearby beaches offer a pleasant setting for afternoon walks but please swim with caution as there are no lifeguards / red flag system in operation. Seafront restaurants provide you with lots of opportunities to sample the local cuisine.

Itinerary in Detail 23 Itinerary in Detail

Hoi An, Vietnam

Saturday My Son ruins and walking tour of the Old Quarter (Full day) 17 March, 2018 Group excursion Leaving your hotel early in the morning the group will travel for one to one and a

Hotel Royal Hoi An, Hoi half hours to a point close to the My Son ruins, Vietnam's most important Cham An site. The Cham civilisation dominated the area that is now Central Vietnam for many centuries before being crushed by the Vietnamese. My Son was once the

intellectual and religious centre and may have also served as a burial place for Cham monarchs. The monuments are set in a verdant valley surrounded by hills and overlooked by Cat's Tooth Mountain. Streams run between the structures and through the nearby countryside and the site can be explored in a couple of hours on foot.

After taking the time to explore the interesting site the group will return to Hoi An in time for lunch and your guide will drop you off at either your hotel or a restaurant in town (lunch is not included). This afternoon your guide will lead the group on a short walking tour of Hoi An’s Old Quarter, visiting an old merchant's Japanese bridge, Hoi An house, the Chinese temple and the ancient Japanese covered bridge.

Evening dinner cruise

Sunday Free day to explore at your own leisure 18 March, 2018

Hotel Royal Hoi An, Hoi An

24 Itinerary in Detail Itinerary in Detail

Monday Transfer from Hoi An to Danang Airport 19 March, 2018 group tour transfer After breakfast, the group will be collected from the hotel, and transferred to

Cruise: Bassac Boat, Danang airport, in plenty of time for your onward flight. The transfer will take less Saigon than an hour.

Danang to Saigon Vietnam Airlines - Flight No: VN1307 - Dep: 08:00 - Arr: 09:10 - (same day); Class: Economy Class; Non-stop flight

Saigon introduction This vivacious city was the original ‘Pearl of the Orient’. Along the old Rue Catinat, and in the surrounding boulevards, stand relics of empire and revolution: Notre Dame Cathedral, the Opera House, the Post Office and the Reunification Palace. The city continues to undergo rapid change, with new skyscrapers, lively bars and a Floating market in the Mekong Delta, booming economy, all under the watchful gaze of Uncle Ho’, whose statue stands Vietnam proud outside the old Hotel De Ville.

There is still plenty of local charm: soup sellers ring their chimes to signify a freshly made lunch, fortune tellers read palms and incense drifts from busy temples. The choice of restaurants is outstanding, and this is a great shopping city: classy boutiques sell lacquerware, silk and modern art. Nearby, are the infamous Cu Chi Tunnels, a network of over 250 kilometres of secret underground passages used by the Viet Cong during the conflict with America.

Reunification Palace

Cai Be - Can Tho - Sa Dec on board the Bassac - Day 1 private cabin on a shared boat The group will be met at the airport and transferred to Cai Be, where you board the RV Bassac boat around 1pm. Lunch is served out on deck whilst the boat slowly cruises down the Tien Giang River toward Cho Lach. The boat meanders through some smaller canals where you can see local barges, fruit farms and ship yards, and take in the everyday delta life. You will have the opportunity to get off the boat to explore a local village on the banks of the Mang Thit River, where you can see local orchards and rice paddies. Back on-board the boat, you can relax on deck and enjoy the sunset, followed by dinner. The Bassac will moor up for the night just downstream from Tra On floating market.

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Cycling through the paddy fields in the Mekong Delta

Tuesday Cai Be - Can Tho - Sa Dec on board the Bassac - Day 2 20 March, 2018 private cabin on a shared boat Breakfast is served from 6.30am whilst the boat cruises past Tra On floating

Cruise: Bassac Boat, market towards Can Tho. Upon arrival at Cai Rang, you will have the opportunity Saigon to transfer to a smaller local boat to weave through the Cai Rang floating market, visit local gardens, and then return to the Bassac. Lunch is served as the boat

continues its journey towards Thot Not. Here you can transfer onto a longboat to visit the local bamboo knitting village and see the egrets return to the local bird sanctuary. Return to the boat at dusk to continue cruising downstream. Tonight you have chance to try your hand at Vietnamese cooking with a short culinary lesson before enjoying cocktails on deck and a delicious dinner. The Bassac drops anchor near Long Xuyen for the night.

Woman cooking in an open kitchen in downtown Saigon

Wednesday Cai Be - Can Tho - Sa Dec on board the Bassac - Day 3 21 March, 2018 private cabin on a shared boat The boat continues its journey toward Sa Dec along the Co Chien River and

Intercontinental Asiana, breakfast will be served from 6:30am whilst cruising. Upon arrival in Sa Dec, you Saigon will check out from your cabin and disembark, upon which you will be greeted by your driver and from here the group will return to Saigon. This is a relatively long

road journey, approximately three to three and a half hours, but you will stop along the way for lunch. Upon arrival in to Saigon, you will be dropped off at your hotel and have the rest of the afternoon free.

Vespas in Saigon

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Thursday Morning visit to Cu Chi Tunnels and Saigon city tour 22 March, 2018 group tour excursion with English speaking guide This morning the group will travel to Cu Chi’s hidden network of Viet Cong

Intercontinental Asiana, tunnels, bunkers and field hospitals. Dug during the French-Indochina wars, they Saigon were expanded during later conflicts and proved to be a constant thorn in the side of the Saigon regime. During your time here you will see original film footage from

the period and also have the chance to go down enlarged sections of tunnel and see first hand what life was like for the Viet Cong soldiers.

Return to Saigon for a short tour of the main sites of Saigon including Rue Catinat, Notre Dame Cathedral, the Reunification Palace and the Museum of War Remnants. The group will also visit Cholon (Chinatown) to visit the Thien Hau Temple, with its spiral incense coils, and Binh Tay market, where a walk through the narrow aisles between the food stalls is always an experience. You will then also visit a couple of the city's main pagodas before returning to the hotel. Alternatively, you can be dropped off at the War Remnants Museum to explore at Ho Chi Minh City Hall, Saigon your own leisure and make your own way back to the hotel.

Note: The time spent actually underground in the tunnels is minimal but should not be attempted by anyone suffering from claustrophobia. Please take some mosquito repellent with you as there are sometimes in the tunnels.

Farewell dinner at the Ly´ Club Group tour excursion For the last night of the tour, we have arranged for the group to enjoy a farewell dinner at the Ly Club. Set amid a sculpted neo-modern garden, the classic French colonial-era Ly Club Villa is located in District 3 of Saigon. The Ly Club takes its names from the 11th-century Ly dynasty. Ruling until the 13th century, the Ly emperors are renowned for setting the benchmarks of Vietnamese cultural refinement and social graces. Enjoy delicious innovative Western-Vietnamese- inspired cuisine and a wonderful dining experience on your last night together in Vietnam.

Friday Saigon at leisure 23 March, 2018 recommendations for your free time - not included There is much to do in Saigon - a vibrant city, the largest in Vietnam and truly cosmopolitan. The juxtaposition of modern and old makes for a diversity of attractions. While you will explore the War Remnants in your city tour, the eerie and fascinating Reunification Palace and the more sedate History Museum also focus on the Vietnamese War. For something from the colonial era, Saigon's government quarter set in the heart of District 1 is a pleasant place to have a coffee and view the French-style Central Post Office.

Despite Vietnam's Communist government Saigon has embraced capitalism and is a great place for shopping. You will find everything from local markets to sophisticated department stores and classy boutiques selling their version of Street Scene, Saigon, Vietnam traditional crafts. An afternoon could be quite happily spent wandering Saigon's streets and browsing the goods on offer. The Pham Ngu Lao backpacker centre is also a good place to look for bargains.

Late Check Out included.

Departure transfer from your hotel to Saigon airport

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group tour transfer The group will be collected from the hotel and once all members of the group have checked out of the hotel, you will transfer to Saigon airport in plenty of time for your international flight.

Saigon Terminal: 2 to Singapore Changi airport Singapore Airlines - Flight No: SQ 185 - Dep: 19:50 - Arr: 22:55 - (same day) - Duration: 02hr 05min; Class: Economy; Non-stop flight

Saturday Singapore Changi airport Terminal: 3 to London Heathrow 24 March, 2018 Terminal: 2

Singapore Airlines - Flight No: SQ 306 - Dep: 01:15 - Arr: 07:20 - (same day) - Duration: 14hr 05min; Class: Economy; Non-stop flight

Important Notes  Flight times and the daily order of sightseeing are subject to change.  Transfer times are approximate and subject to local conditions at the time of travel.  All flight times are local.

28 Itinerary in Detail Accommodation

OUR ACCOMMODATION GRADING SYSTEM Your accommodation is described on the following pages. Please do not hesitate to call us if you require any further information about any of the properties. We classify accommodation into the following categories. These are for your guidance only, they are based on the opinions of our staff and are therefore quite subjective. Basic: Very primitive accommodation where we are not aware of anything better in the region. Simple: Clean and simple but limited facilities. Medium: A good standard of accommodation, reasonable range of facilities. First Class: A high standard of accommodation with a wide range of facilities. Deluxe: Superb accommodation with facilities and service to match. Opulent: The world’s most unashamedly luxurious hotels, resorts and lodges.

Accommodation 29 Accommodation

SOFITEL LEGEND Additionally, there is an outdoor, METROPOLE, HANOI heated swimming pool, a luxurious spa Deluxe and a number of restaurants and bars located throughout the hotel, all The Metropole has stood as a offering a variety of dining experiences. legendary symbol of Hanoi since its establishment at the turn of the last 'La Terrasse du Metropole' café has century. The French Colonial been modelled on a traditional Parisian architecture of the Metropole makes pavement café, 'Spices Garden' this hotel one of the outstanding restaurant offers traditional and buildings in Hanoi, symbolizing the innovative Asian food and 'Le Beaulieu' character, history and charm of restaurant offers some of the best and Vietnam's capital city. most authentic French cuisine in Vietnam. The Angelina Italian The hotel is ideally located, just a short restaurant and lounge is the newest walk from the Opera House, the addition to the restaurant choices famous Hoan Kiem Lake and a brief available, and offers a more cyclo ride from the historic Old contemporary option, with a live DJ Quarter. from 9pm.

All 364 rooms are very well appointed. Our opinion: The historic wing blends a mix of Over the past few years, there have French Colonial architecture with been an increasing number of new Vietnamese traditional touches. The luxury hotels opening in Hanoi. Opera Wing displays a more neo- However, none equals the character or classical modernity. the reputation of the historic Metropole.

30 Accommodation Accommodation

AU CO, HALONG CITY Au Co suites offering 36 and 40 square First Class metres respectively. Long Quan Suites are located on the upper deck and come with private terrace space, while The Au Co allows guests to discover the Au Co suites occupy an unrivalled this beautiful UNESCO World position at the aft of the boat for Heritage Site and the quieter bays of unparalleled views across the bay. Lan Ha and Bai Tu Long in style and comfort, whilst focusing on sustainable All furnished with hardwood floors and tourism to ensure a minimum impact handcrafted mosaic furniture, the cabins and suites feature a host of on the local environment; supporting Away from your cabin, indulge yourself amenities to ensure a pleasant and local communities and conserving the with a spa treatment or in the open-air comfortable stay; including individually beauty of the area for future Jacuzzi, relax on the sun deck or enjoy controlled air conditioning, telephones, generations. a refreshing drink in the semi-covered hair dryers, tea/coffee makers, mini terrace bar as the sun sets. The bars, and toiletries. The vessel offers 32 cabins in total, all spacious fine dining restaurant serves with en suite bathrooms and floor-to- fresh local dishes, while a host of ceiling sliding glass doors leading to activities can be arranged to make the private balconies – a stand-out feature most of your surroundings, such as considering the fantastic views that can kayaking, snorkelling and fishing. A car be enjoyed during your cruise. Room rental service with a private driver is categories range from deluxe cabins on also available should you wish to the main deck and grand deluxe and venture ashore, and complimentary executive cabins on the upper deck; all Wi-Fi on board means that you can with an ample 20 to 25 square metres easily keep in touch with the outside of space, to luxurious Long Quan and world.

Accommodation 31 Accommodation

LA RESIDENCE HOTEL & SPA, The hotel has a full range of amenities, HUE including a riverside restaurant 'Le First Class Parfum', serving creative Asian, Vietnamese and European flavours, an Ideally located opposite the Imperial outdoor saltwater swimming pool and Palace, along the quiet banks of the an extensive spa offering a complete Perfume River, the hotel boasts range of treatments. outstanding views of both the Ancient Citadel and the Forbidden City. It was Our opinion: built around the renovated 1910 Art La Residence is a graceful, elegant and Deco 'Residence Superieure de charismatic base from which to explore L'Annan'. At that time, it was the Hue.

administrative centre of the French rule in central Vietnam, during the colonial era. The hotel has an Art Deco-inspired design of the 1920s and 1950s.

There are 122 rooms, with every modern convenience, some with private balconies. The signature suites are located in the original building, and ooze character, featuring four poster beds and spacious terraces. It is definitely worth opting for a room offering a river view; however, these are limited and extremely popular.

32 Accommodation Accommodation

HOTEL ROYAL HOI AN, HOI AN First Class

Set on the banks of the Thu Bon River, just ten minutes walk from the town's historical area, The Hotel Royal Hoi An offers guests a perfect base from which to explore the UNESCO heritage town. The property has a mixture of traditional charm and contemporary design, reflected in the 119 comfortable and stylish rooms. There is a good size pool in the main courtyard, several dining options including Wakaku, a Japanese restaurant and the Faifo Cafe serving Vietnamese and international fare as well as a gym and spa.

Our opinion: A convenient option for a stay in Hoi An with great facilities and attentive service.

Accommodation 33 Accommodation

CRUISE: BASSAC BOAT, offering the same one or two night SAIGON cruise through the heart of the Delta. Medium Bassac II and III are larger, accommodating up to 24 passengers and featuring more spacious communal Converted from a traditional rice areas. Despite being newer, they have barge, the original R/V Bassac offers six still been built using the wood comfortable en suite cabins (four twin traditionally used for ships in this area, and two double) for up to 12 giving them an air of authenticity. passengers, each located at the front of During your cruise you will have the the main deck and furnished entirely in the floating markets that form the opportunity to explore on smaller wood, featuring a range of amenities, lifeblood of the region. Without doubt, boats, stopping to walk around local such as air conditioning, to ensure a this is one of the most characterful and villages and learn about the villagers’ pleasant stay. authentic ways to explore this way of life; such as how they grow rice, fascinating region of Southern Vietnam. Communal spaces on board include a fruit and vegetables. You will also visit spacious sun deck with comfortable cottage industries, as well as visiting loungers, a bar that opens out so that guests can take in the wonderful views as they drink, and a restaurant serving quality regional cuisine. Guests are also offered the chance to learn about traditional Vietnamese cooking in workshops held in the galley.

There are also two newer Bassac vessels, each with 12 en suite cabins, all

34 Accommodation Accommodation

INTERCONTINENTAL ASIANA, Cantonese and Peking cuisine, with the Whilst there are options in the city SAIGON chance to watch the chefs prepare with more of a colonial feel, this is a First Class your dinner amongst unmatched decor well located and great value option. and design. Market 39 showcases seven

This addition to the Intercontinental interactive live show kitchens where chain is a superbly positioned five-star you can indulge in the best of French, hotel in a prime location. It is the Vietnamese and Southeast Asian newest luxury hotel in town, situated cuisines. Purple Jade is Saigon's newest in the heart of Saigon's commercial and stylish venue for sharing a cool cocktail, consular district, close to main heritage some great music and good times with sites, tourist attractions and shopping family and friends. The Basilico, located centres. The property is within easy at the next door Intercontinental walking distance of the colonial sights Asiana Saigon Residences, is a of Notre Dame Cathedral and the Old contemporary, casual trattoria style Saigon Post Office, also a few minutes restaurant specialising in authentic away from famous landmarks like the Italian dishes. Reunification Palace, the City Hall and the Opera House. Upgrading to club level brings added in- room benefits and there is also a range All 305 room are sleek, modern and of complimentary benefits offered at stylish and the hotel offers all of the the Club Lounge: afternoon tea from facilities and amenities you would 2pm to 5pm, evening drinks from expect from a top-quality international 5:30pm to 7:30pm, fresh juice, mineral hotel, including a 20-metre long water, soft drinks, and tea and coffee outdoor pool and an excellent spa available all day. offering a range of treatments. The Yu Chu restaurant specialises in authentic Our opinion:

Accommodation 35 Charity support

Each of our regional teams supports a charity or charities in that region. This is one that is close to their hearts and the team fundraise through the year. Additionally, we have an overall company charity of the year, to find out more visit: www.audleytravel.com/rt. The Southeast Asia team has chosen to support The Goodwill Centre in Sihanoukville, Cambodia.

About The Goodwill Centre Recovering from its recent turbulent history, Cambodia is one of the world’s poorest countries. Poverty is obvious to foreign visitors and particularly affects the younger generation, who are struggling to rebuild an education system which came close to eradication in the 1970’s.

The Goodwill Centre is a small, unique project which aims to address these issues through education and life skills training, enabling children to break out of the poverty trap and take control of their future. With a regular staff of four, the centre caters for over 160 children and young adults who have limited access to schooling, fresh water and basic sanitation.

The charity encourages participation in a range of activities outside school hours, aiming to keep children off the streets. Classes are offered in English and Khmer literacy, computer studies, basic science and arts and crafts. With a strong hygiene program, it promotes health, physical education and has its own ambitious football team. This safe environment encourages play, teamwork and the development of social skills.

Current work and future plans The centre plays a vital role in the local community as it assists with school fees, organises monthly food drops and has established a soap making project with the women in the village to supplement their income. It also provides medical care, a helpline to refer children to specialised clinics and an emergency transport service to the hospital in Phnom Penh.

In the future, it hopes to create a nursery room, employ a full time Khmer carer and outreach worker and launch a nutrition programme providing one free meal a day to disadvantaged children.

Audley are amazed at the difference the Goodwill Centre makes to the everyday lives of the children and what has been achieved here with so little. The Southeast Asia team will also be fundraising throughout the year to add to our contribution.

For more information please visit http://goodwillcentersihanoukville.wordpress.com or ask your specialist.

36 Charity support General information

Passport & visa information for British citizens

You must hold a passport which is valid for at least six months following the return date of your trip. It is your responsibility to ensure you have the correct documentation and visa stamp(s) for all sectors of your journey. Failure or inability to obtain all required visas for whatever reason does not entitle you to cancel without paying the applicable cancellation charges. For further details on passports and visas, or for information on requirements for non-British citizens, please check www.cibtvisas.co.uk/audleytravel

Travel insurance

It is advisable to take out your travel insurance at the time of booking your trip as cover will commence for pre-departure cancellation from the policy issue date. This will therefore provide cover should you have to cancel your trip for an insured reason such as illness or serious accident.

We strongly recommend that you and all members of your party are adequately insured, providing financial protection against unforeseen circumstances. Cover should include medical expenses, as well as repatriation, in the event of accident or illness. In addition, we strongly recommend that you have cover for personal belongings, delay at your outward or homeward point of departure, personal liability, overseas legal expenses and cancellation. If you are undertaking any sports or adventurous activities on your trip, including trekking, you should also make sure that your policy covers these. Please also ensure you read the policy conditions and exclusions.

The type of trips we create and the requirements of Audley clients vary greatly. There are a number of companies who offer policies which may suit these varying requirements. You can find links to the companies' websites at www.audleytravel.com/insurance

Once you have a travel insurance policy in place, please let your specialist know who your insurance company is and your policy number. Having this information enables us to support you should an emergency situation arise.

Health

It is essential that you visit your GP or a travel clinic well in advance of travel, preferably at least six weeks ahead, to make sure that you have taken all the necessary health precautions. Some vaccinations require more than one visit with a period of weeks between injections, and some may be incompatible with certain medicines or medical conditions. It is therefore important that your own individual medical history is taken into account. For up-to-date medical advice you may wish to use the Medical Advisory Service for Travellers Abroad (MASTA) www.masta-travel-health.com, the NHS website www.fitfortravel.nhs.uk or NaTHNaC www.travelhealthpro.org.uk

Mosquito bite avoidance

In many tropical countries, mosquitoes can spread diseases such as dengue, chikungunya, West Nile, malaria, yellow fever and Zika virus. It is essential that you seek medical advice prior to travel, and especially if you are pregnant or have an underlying medical condition. Whilst travelling there are several simple measures you can take to reduce your risk of infections spread by mosquitoes: wear suitable clothing and cover up at times of day when mosquitoes are active, use insect repellent on exposed skin, and use a mosquito net if sleeping in unscreened accommodation. It is important to seek prompt medical attention if you have a fever or display any other symptoms. If you become unwell on your return, make sure you tell your doctor about any trips abroad you have taken in the past year.

High altitude

Your itinerary may include sections where the altitude exceeds 10,000 feet (3,048 metres). If you suffer from circulation, heart or respiratory problems we advise that you consult with your doctor before confirming your booking.

Pre-existing medical conditions and your ability to participate

The nature of many of the destinations we travel to means that in some cases they may be unsuitable for those who use a wheelchair or have a lack of mobility. However we will be delighted to discuss the feasibility of creating a tailor-made itinerary for you that takes into consideration your level of mobility. To assist us in doing this we may ask you to complete a short questionnaire.

It is essential that you advise us before booking if you do have any disability or pre-existing medical condition which may affect your holiday, or if you have any special requirements as a result of any disability or medical condition (including any which affect the booking process) so that we can assist you in considering the suitability of the arrangements and/or in making the booking. It will also enable us to make sure you receive the relevant level of assistance when you fly. Full details must be confirmed in writing at the time of booking and whenever any change in the condition or disability occurs.

On our tailor-made tours and escorted group tours the guides and tour leaders are, unfortunately, unable to offer additional assistance to passengers with limited mobility and all such assistance will need to be provided by whoever the passenger is travelling with. We may request that you provide a letter from your doctor confirming your fitness to travel.

General information 37 General information

Special dietary requirements

Special diets should be noted on the booking form; however, it is not always possible to expect special diets to be catered for in some of the destinations we feature. We will advise the hotels and airlines of your request but we cannot guarantee their availability. If you have an airborne nut allergy you must make us aware at the time of booking as most airlines require this information in advance of travel. Please note that all special meals for flights must be requested at least 48 hours in advance.

Government travel advice

The Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) Travel Advice Unit monitors all overseas destinations and offers advice to British citizens. In order to be fully informed of safety issues, crime rates, political stability and local customs you can view the advice at www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice

We monitor FCO advice carefully and on occasion may be required to cancel trips, re-route itineraries or make other changes to trips based on the warnings given. Any decision will always be taken in the interests of your safety and security and will be communicated fully with you.

Travelling with children

If travelling with a child and only one parent is present, please be aware that you must have the permission of everyone with parental responsibility before that child can be taken abroad. You automatically have parental responsibility if you’re the child’s mother, but you still need the permission of anyone else with parental responsibility before you take the child abroad. A letter from the person with parental responsibility for the child is usually enough to show you’ve got permission to take them abroad. You might be asked for the letter at a UK or foreign border. The letter should include the other person’s contact details and details about the trip.

If you are a single parent but your family name is different from the child’s you are advised to travel with evidence of your relationship (eg a birth certificate) and a divorce or marriage certificate.

You should also check the requirements of the country you are travelling to as they may have additional specific requirements and the age limit up to which a person is considered a child may vary.

Flights

Flight routing

The difference between a direct flight and a non-stop flight can cause confusion. To clarify, on a direct flight no change of aircraft is scheduled but touchdowns will be made en route either to refuel or to board or disembark passengers. On non-stop flights no change of aircraft is required and no stops are made en route. Exact details of your route will be given in your itinerary.

Internal flights

Smaller local airlines are more likely to change their schedule at short notice. We will endeavour to inform you of any changes in advance of travelling but this may not always be possible.

Seating

Most airlines now operate one of two main seating policies. The majority offer paid-for seating, with a smaller number maintaining a free-of-charge seating policy; please ask your country specialist for details regarding the seating policy of the airline you are booked to travel with. More detail on each type of seating can be found below:

Paid-for seating

The majority of airlines now offer you the opportunity to secure specific seats in advance of travel by paying an additional premium. In order to do this it is a requirement of the airlines that you have fully paid for your flight ticket. Once a flight ticket is fully paid for amendment charges will apply should you wish to change your arrangements (please see the section entitled The flexibility of flight arrangements, below). Please be aware that, even with paid-for seating, some changes can be made by the airline that are outside of our control and which may affect your paid-for seating. If you do not wish to pay a premium to secure a specific seat you can wait until online check-in opens, usually 24 hours in advance of travel, and reserve a seat at this point.

38 General information General information

Free-of-charge seat requests

For the airlines that still maintain a free-of-charge seating policy we will do all we can to try to reserve a specific seat for you, if you have a preference. Please make it clear on your booking form if you have a specific request. However, whilst airlines may allow us to make free-of-charge seat requests, they will not guarantee any such seat reservations. Most airlines now allow you to check-in online 24 hours ahead of travel and select or re-confirm free-of-charge seat reservations at this stage. If seating is important to you and you have been unable to check-in online it is always best to arrive for your flight early.

The flexibility of flight arrangements

If fully flexible flight arrangements are important to you, please let your specialist know at the earliest possible time in the quote process so they can include the most appropriate fare for you. We primarily use special ‘inclusive tour’ fares when we purchase your tickets from the airlines and while these fares are very good value they are inflexible in terms of changes and offer no refunds once the tickets are issued. If your specialist uses this type of fare then once your flight is confirmed the airlines will charge an amendment fee or insist on the purchase of a completely new ticket should you wish to make changes.

Frequent flyer clubs

If you collect points through any of the airline frequent flyer clubs and wish to accrue points on your Audley trip, please let your specialist know so that they can chose an appropriate airfare where points can be awarded. Please provide your membership details on the booking form and we will ensure that these are recorded against your flight reservation.

If you wish to use your points to purchase flights then you will have to make these arrangements directly with the airline as we are not able to access fares in this way. If you do chose to do this please provide the flight details to your specialist so they can ensure the ground arrangements dovetail with your flights.

Carbon offsetting your flights

The carbon footprint of flying is relatively high and we would encourage you to offset your flights by contributing to our carbon reduction scheme operated by ClimateCare. We carbon offset all our staff research trips. The quote for your trip will include an optional amount for carbon offsetting, which can be paid at the time of booking or you can make your payment directly to ClimateCare using their carbon calculator www.climatecare.org/calculator/

Accommodation & additional travel services

UK airport hotels, car parking and lounges

We are able to arrange airport hotel accommodation, car parking, meet and greet services and airport lounge access in the UK, subject to availability. To arrange any of these services please speak to your country specialist.

Hotel room configuration

There is often confusion over the terminology used for bed arrangements (eg single, double, twin) in hotel rooms, and this can vary considerably from country to country. If you have specific requirements please do make this clear to your country specialist. We will endeavour to confirm your preferred configuration wherever possible but please note that all rooms are allocated at the discretion of the hotel and cannot be guaranteed.

World travel & cultural differences

Many of our destinations are in parts of the world where attitudes, infrastructure, priorities, lifestyles and cultures are very different from our own. This is often the very reason to visit the destination but certain aspects may be frustrating, disorientating or even stressful. A sense of humour can prove invaluable when travelling over rougher roads, waiting for a delayed aircraft and communicating with hotel staff whose first language is not English.

Airlines may change their schedules, roads may close and government regulations may alter. Should there be any changes to the travel arrangements you have booked we will do our best to keep you informed of the situation prior to departure, and we will of course assist with any issues that arise whilst you are travelling.

Health and safety standards

Every country has its own regulations and enforcement levels relating to health and safety standards. These do not always match the very high standards we are used to in the UK. The health and safety of our customers is of paramount importance and we are continually working to assess and improve the services we provide. We provide more information on things to be aware of whilst you

General information 39 General information

are travelling in the Important Information section of your Travel Organiser, which you will receive around 14 days before you depart on your trip.

Security

Opportunistic crime such as bag-snatching and pick-pocketing is unfortunately a fact of life in many destinations. Use your common sense when walking around, make use of hotel safes where available, and leave all but essential valuables at home. We suggest carrying a photocopy of your passport separately from the original document, purely as a back-up.

Quality Assurance

Financial security

We hold an Air Travel Organiser's Licence (ATOL) issued by the Civil Aviation Authority (ATOL number 4817). All the flight-inclusive holidays* that we provide are financially protected by the ATOL scheme. When you pay, you will be supplied with an ATOL Certificate. Please check to ensure that the booking reference shown on it matches your booking and that all your flights are listed on it. Please see Section 12 of our Terms and conditions for further information about financial protection and www.atol.org.uk/atolcertificate for further information on the ATOL Certificate.

*The flight inclusive holidays we arrange are ATOL protected providing they are made available in the UK. For further information, visit the Civil Aviation Authority website at www.caa.co.uk/atol-protection

Not all holiday or travel services offered and sold by us will be protected by the ATOL scheme. Those package arrangements which do not include any flights and therefore are not protected by our ATOL are covered by ABTOT, the Association of Bonded Travel Organisers Trust. This insurance means your money will be refunded or you will be returned to the starting point of your contracted arrangements if already abroad in the unlikely event of our being unable to provide your holiday due to our insolvency. (For more details please see Section 12 of the Terms and Conditions.) In these instances you will not receive an ATOL certificate with your invoice.

AITO Membership

Audley Travel is a member of the Association of Independent Tour Operators and as such we sign up to the AITO Quality Charter. Please visit AITO’s website www.aito.com for more details or call 0208 744 9280.

Responsible Travel

At Audley we are passionate about the countries we specialise in, therefore it is a natural progression that we help to protect each region and maximise the benefits that tourism can bring. Responsible Travel (RT) doesn't mean having to compromise on the enjoyment of your trip or the quality of your accommodation. We feel strongly that we should directly benefit the communities we visit whenever possible through sustainable travel, environmental protection and social projects, without sacrificing comfort or character. For more information about our social responsibility please visit our website www.audleytravel.com/about-us/responsible- travel

40 General information Terms and conditions

Please read the following conditions carefully. All (iv) On occasions, we may be asked by suppliers to Alterations or cancellations by you after holidays are sold by us subject to these conditions and make payment to them earlier than normal. Such commencement of travel and unused services the other general information in this booklet, our requests may, for example, be made in order to secure We will do our best to implement any changes to your brochures and quotations. accommodation and other services during periods of arrangements you request once they have commenced, peak demand. Whilst suppliers may have no contractual but we cannot guarantee this will be possible. In the Audley Travel Group Ltd (whose administrative offices right to make such requests, failure to comply with event of such amendments being made you will be are at New Mill, New Mill Lane, Witney, Oxon OX29 them may result in the loss of confirmed arrangements. liable for any direct cancellation charges that may be 9SX) are members of the Association of Independent Where this situation arises, we reserve the right to ask levied for the services originally booked, and for the Tour Operators. Audley Travel Group Ltd (hereafter you to make payment of the requested sum within a cost of booking the revised arrangements and the referred to as 'we', 'us', 'our') offers a number of stipulated period and prior to balance due date. We arrangements themselves. We cannot guarantee products and the trading names we use are 'Audley', will of course endeavour to avoid doing so if we can. refunds will be paid to clients who do not complete a and 'Audley Travel'. In these Terms and Conditions, Any such early payment will be non-refundable except tour. However where we ourselves are able to obtain a 'you' and 'your' means all persons named on the as set out in clause 4. refund from hotels or principals for services not used, booking, or any of them as applicable (including anyone we will pass this on to you, less any reasonable who is added or substituted at a later date). (v) If you are booking your holiday through one of our administration charges. authorised travel agents the balance must be paid to Your contract with us and all matters arising out of it the agent two weeks prior to the applicable balance THE IMPORTANCE OF TRAVEL INSURANCE are governed by English law. We both agree that any due date as specified on the booking If you have taken out holiday insurance you may, dispute, claim or other matter which arises out of or in confirmation/invoice and quotation. All payments made depending on the detail of your policy, be able to connection with this contract or your holiday, will be to one of our authorised travel agents for the recover the cancellation charges, check your policy for dealt with by the AITO Arbitration Scheme - see clause arrangements we have contracted to provide will be details. Never travel without insurance, the unexpected 9 or the Courts of England and Wales only unless, in held by them on our behalf. If you book your holiday can always happen. It is your responsibility to ensure the case of Court proceedings, you live in Scotland or through a travel agent who is not a member of ABTA, you are adequately covered by insurance for all Northern Ireland. In this case, proceedings may be all payments must be made to us directly and not your elements of your trip. Please read your policy and take brought in the Courts of your home country. If travel agent. it on holiday with you. proceedings are brought in Scotland or Northern Ireland, you may choose to have your contract 2. If you change your holiday 4. If we change your holiday governed by the law of Scotland/Northern Ireland as If, after the contract between us has come into We start planning the holidays we offer many months applicable. If you do not so choose, English law will existence, you want to change your holiday we will do in advance. Occasionally, we have to make changes to apply. our best to pass your request to the relevant supplier, and correct errors in itineraries and other details both however we cannot guarantee that such changes can be before and after bookings have been confirmed and 1.Paying for your holiday made. Where a change can be made, we will charge for very rarely cancel confirmed bookings. Whilst we (i) The procedure for making a booking is shown in any additional costs incurred including any costs always endeavour to avoid changes and cancellations, your itinerary quotation and on our website. All imposed or incurred by any of our suppliers, and we must reserve the right to do so. However, we bookings are subject to these terms and conditions and including for example cancellation charges that may be promise we will only cancel your confirmed booking by asking us to confirm your booking, and by paying a incurred for sectors cancelled. You should note, for after balance due date where you have failed to comply deposit, the person who makes the booking is taken to example, that a change of name on or other alteration with any requirement of these booking conditions have accepted these booking conditions on behalf of all to an airline ticket will usually incur a 100% cancellation entitling us to cancel (such as paying on time or persons named on the booking. Once we have received charge and full rebooking fee. unacceptably abusive behaviour) or where we are the applicable payment(s) due at the time of booking forced to do so as a result of 'force majeure' as defined (see below), we will, subject to availability of the 3. If you cancel your holiday in clause 5 below. We will not cancel after this date for requested arrangements, send you your booking If you have to cancel part of the booking or cancel the any other reason. confirmation/invoice. It is at the point when we issue entire booking once it has been confirmed by us, this to you that a valid contract will come into written notification must be sent to us by recorded Most changes are minor. Occasionally, we have to existence between us. Please check your booking delivery post or by email. As proof of receipt by email make a 'significant change'. A significant change is a confirmation/invoice and all tickets/documents carefully of your notification to cancel you must receive and change made before departure which, taking account of as soon as you receive them and contact us retain written acknowledgement from Audley Travel. the information you give us at the time of booking and immediately if you think any details are incorrect. We If you wish to cancel your entire booking, a cancellation which we can reasonably be expected to know as a regret we cannot accept any liability if we are not charge will be payable by you on the date the letter is tour operator, we can reasonably expect to have a notified of any inaccuracies (for which we are received, or the email is acknowledged by Audley major effect on your holiday. Significant changes are responsible) in any document within ten days of our Travel. The charge is applied in two parts: first, as a likely to include the following changes when made sending it out).We will do our best to rectify any percentage of the total holiday cost as follows: before departure; a change of accommodation to that mistake notified to us outside these time limits but you of a lower official classification or standard for the must meet any costs involved in doing so. Up to balance due date 15% whole or a major part of the time you are away*, a From balance due date 25% change of accommodation area for the whole or a (ii) The deposit is part payment of the holiday. The major part of the time you are away, a change of UK deposit required will be shown on the quotation page And secondly, in addition to the above, any amounts outward departure time or overall length of time you of your itinerary. In addition to the deposit, full or part paid in addition to the deposit at the time of booking are away of 12 or more hours, or a change of UK payment of certain elements of your holiday (such as or before the cancellation date (see clauses 1(ii) and departure airport to one which is more inconvenient flights) may be required at the time of booking or at 1(iv)) which are likely to be non-refundable in the event for you (except as between Gatwick and Heathrow). some point between booking and balance due date. of cancellation, plus (i.e. in addition to the above) any Also see clause 1 (iv) for other advance payments payments and direct charges we are contractually *Please note: A change affecting a stay in a hotel during which may be required. The balance must be paid not required to make to third parties in connection with a tour where the hotel itself is not the focus of the later than the date specified on the booking your holiday (to the extent not already paid under tour, does not constitute a significant change. confirmation/invoice. This is normally no less than 8 clause 1(ii) and/or clause 1(iv) above), although we shall weeks before the departure date. However, there are a endeavour to mitigate these to the extent we can If we have to make a significant change or cancel, we few destinations or trip components that require reasonably do so. In respect of cancellation of part of will tell you as soon as possible. If there is time to do payment no less than 90 days before the departure your booking, the cancellation charge payable by you so before departure, we will offer you the choice of the date which will be specified on your booking will comprise any direct cancellation costs and charges following options:- confirmation/invoice and quotation. Please note if we we incur as a result of such cancellation, our do not receive all payments due (including any reasonable administration costs of dealing with the (a) (for significant changes) accepting the changed surcharge where applicable) in full and on time, we will cancellation arrangements, plus any payments we are arrangements or contact you to confirm that you wish to cancel your contractually required to make to third parties in booking, and you must pay the cancellation charges connection with the cancelled part of the holiday to the (b) purchasing an alternative holiday from us, of a shown in clause 3. extent not already paid under clause 1(ii) and/or clause similar standard to that originally booked if available. 1(iv) above, although we shall endeavour to mitigate Please note: Due to the original and individual nature of (iii) Full payment is required at the time of booking for these to the extent we can reasonably do so. our holidays it frequently may not be possible to offer all bookings made after balance due date as above. you a comparable holiday to that originally booked.

(c) cancelling or accepting the cancellation in which case you will receive a full and quick refund of all monies you have paid to us.

Terms and conditions 41 Terms and conditions

You must advise us of your decision within 7 days of 6. Surcharges (c) an event or circumstance which we or the supplier the date on which we notified you of the significant Once the price of your chosen holiday has been of the service(s) in question could not have predicted r change or cancellation. Please note, the above options confirmed at the time of booking, we will only increase avoided even after taking all reasonable care (see clause are not available where any change made is a minor or decrease it in the following circumstances. Price 5) one. A minor change is any change which, taking increases or decreases after booking will be passed on account of the information you have given us at the by way of a surcharge or refund. A surcharge or refund (d) the fault of anyone who is not carrying out work time of booking or which we can reasonably be (as applicable) will be payable, subject to the conditions for us (generally or in particular) at the time. expected to know as a tour operator, we could not set out in this clause, if transportation costs (e.g. fuel, reasonably expect to have a significant effect on your scheduled airfares and any other airline surcharges In addition, we will not be responsible where you do confirmed holiday. which are part of the contract between airlines (and not enjoy your holiday or suffer any problems because their agents) and the tour operator) or dues, taxes or of a reason you did not tell us about when you booked If we have to make a significant change or cancellation fees payable for services such as landing taxes or your holiday or where any problems you suffer did not we will pay you the compensation set out below embarkation or disembarkation fees at ports or result from any breach of our contract or other fault of subject to the following exceptions. Compensation will airports change. ourselves or, where we were responsible for them, our not be payable and no liability beyond offering the suppliers or agents or where any losses, expenses, above mentioned choices can be accepted where (1) Even in the above cases, only if the amount of the costs or other sum you have suffered relate to any we are forced to make a change or cancel as a result of increase in our costs exceeds 2% of the total cost of business. unusual and unforeseeable circumstances beyond our your holiday (excluding any amendment charges), will control, the consequences of which we could not have we levy a surcharge. If any surcharge is greater than Please note: we cannot accept responsibility for any avoided even with all due care or (2) we have to cancel 10% of the cost of your holiday (excluding any services which do not form part of our contract. This because the minimum number of bookings necessary amendment charges), you will be entitled to cancel includes, for example, any additional services or for us to operate your holiday has not been reached - your booking and receive a full refund of all monies you facilities which your hotel or any other supplier agrees in this case we will notify you no less than 60 days have paid to us (except for any amendment charges) or to provide for you where the services or facilities are before departure. Please note: all escorted group trips alternatively purchase another holiday from us as not advertised in our brochure and we have not agreed are based on group arrangements involving a given referred to in clause 4 'If we change your holiday'. to arrange them as part of our contract and any minimum number of passengers. No compensation will Please note that travel arrangements are not always excursion you purchase during your holiday. be payable and the above options will not be available if purchased in local currency and some apparent changes we cancel as a result of your failure to comply with any have no impact on the price of your travel due to (ii)The promises we make to you about the services we requirement of these booking conditions entitling us to contractual and other protection in place. have agreed to provide or arrange as part of our cancel (such as paying on time). contract - and the laws and regulations of the country A refund will only be payable if the decrease in our in which your claim or complaint occurred - will be Period of notification of Compensation costs exceeds 2% as set out above. Where a refund is used as the basis for deciding whether the services in change before scheduled per person due, we will pay you the full amount of the decrease in question had been properly provided. If the particular departure date our costs. services which gave rise to the claim or complaint More than 60 days Nil complied with local laws and regulations applicable to 60-43 days £10 You have 14 days from the issue date printed on the those services at the time, the services will be treated 42-29 days £20 surcharge invoice to tell us if you want to cancel or as having been properly provided. This will be the case 28-15 days £30 purchase another holiday where applicable. If you do even if the services did not comply with the laws and 14-0 days £40 not tell us that you wish to do so within this period of regulations of the UK which would have applied had time, we are entitled to assume that you will pay the those services been provided in the UK. The exception In the unlikely event that we become unable to provide surcharge. Any surcharge must be paid with the balance to this is where the claim or complaint concerns the a significant proportion of the services you have of the cost of the holiday or within 14 days of the issue absence of a safety feature which might lead a booked after you depart, we will make alternative date printed on the surcharge invoice, whichever is the reasonable holiday maker to refuse to take the holiday arrangements for you at no extra charge, or, if this is later. in question. impossible, or you do not accept these alternative arrangements for a good reason, we will provide you We reserve the right to make changes to and correct (iii)We limit the maximum amount we may have to pay with transport back to the point where your holiday errors in quoted prices at any time before your holiday you for any and all claims or parts of claims which do arrangements with us commenced. If we are forced by is confirmed. We will advise you of any error of which not involve personal injury, illness or death. Except 'force majeure' (see clause 5) to change or terminate we are aware and of the then applicable price at the where loss of and/or damage to luggage or personal your holiday after departure but before the scheduled time of booking. possessions is concerned or a lower limitation of end of your time away, we regret we will be unable to liability applies to your claim, the maximum amount we make any refunds (unless we obtain any refunds from 7. Our responsibility will have to pay you for such non personal injury claims our suppliers), pay you any compensation or meet any (i) We promise to make sure that all parts of the if we are found liable to you on any basis is twice the costs or expenses you incur as a result except as set holiday we have agreed to arrange, perform or provide price (excluding any amendment charges) paid by or on out above. as part of our contract with you are arranged, behalf of the person(s) affected in total. This maximum performed or provided with reasonable skill and care. amount will only be payable where everything has gone 5. Force majeure This means that, subject to these booking conditions, wrong and you have not received any benefit at all Except as set out in these terms and conditions, we we will accept responsibility if, for example, you suffer from your holiday. cannot accept liability or pay any compensation where death or personal injury or your contracted holiday the performance or prompt performance of our arrangements are not provided as promised or prove Where we are found liable for loss of and/or damage contractual obligations is prevented or affected, or you deficient as a result of the failure of ourselves, our to any luggage or personal possessions (including otherwise suffer any loss or damage (as more fully employees, agents or suppliers to use reasonable skill money), the maximum amount we will have to pay you described in clause 7 (i) below) as a result of and care in making, performing or providing, as is £150 per person affected as you are assumed to have circumstances amounting to 'force majeure'. In these applicable, your contracted holiday arrangements. taken out adequate insurance at the time of booking. terms and conditions 'force majeure' means any event Please note, it is your responsibility to show that Please also see clause 7(iv) below. or circumstances which we or the supplier of the reasonable skill and care has not been used if you wish services in question could not foresee or avoid even to make a claim against us. In addition, we will only be (iv) Where any claim or part of a claim concerns or is with all due care. Such events and circumstances may responsible for what our employees, agents and based on any travel arrangements (including the include, whether actual or threatened, war, suppliers do or do not do if they were at the time process of getting on and/or off the transport insurrection, riots, strikes, civil action, decisions by acting within the course of their employment (for concerned) provided by any air, sea, rail or road carrier governments or governing authority, technical or employees) or carrying out work we had asked them or any stay in a hotel, the maximum amount of maintenance problems with transport, changes of to do (for agents and suppliers). We will not be compensation we will have to pay you will be limited. schedules or operational decisions of air carriers, responsible for any injury, illness, death, loss (including The most we will have to pay you for that claim or that terrorist activity, industrial action, natural or nuclear loss of enjoyment), damage, expense, cost or other part of a claim if we are found liable to you on any basis activity, epidemics/pandemics, adverse weather sum or claim of any description whatsoever which is the most the carrier or hotel keeper concerned conditions, fire and all similar events outside our results from any of the following:- would have to pay under the international convention control. (a) the fault of the person(s) affected or any member(s) or regulation which applies to the travel arrangements of their party or or hotel stay in question (for example, the Warsaw Convention as amended for international travel by air (b) the fault of a third party not connected with the and/or for airlines with an operating licence granted by provision of your holiday which we could not have an EU country, the EU Regulation on Air Carrier predicted or avoided or Liability for national and international travel by air, the Athens Convention for international travel by sea and COTIF, 42 Terms and conditions Terms and conditions

the Convention on International Travel by Rail). Please If your flight is cancelled or delayed, your flight ticket is so that we may confirm it to you when accepting your note: Where a carrier or hotel would not downgraded or boarding is denied by your airline in booking. be obliged to make any payment to you under the circumstances which would entitle you to claim applicable International Convention or Regulation in compensation or any other payment from the airline 9. Complaints respect of a claim or part of a claim, we similarly are under EC Regulation No 261/2004 - the Denied Should you have any complaints about any aspect of not obliged to make a payment to you for that claim or Boarding Regulations 2004, you must pursue the airline your holiday arrangements, you must inform our local part of the claim. When making any payment, we are for the compensation or other payment due to you. All representative or tour leader immediately and the entitled to deduct any money which you have received sums you receive or are entitled to receive from the supplier of the arrangements concerned. Problems can or are entitled to receive from the transport provider airline concerned by virtue of these Regulations most easily be dealt with on the spot. Please note, if or hotelier for the complaint or claim in question. represent the full amount of your entitlement to you do not report a problem or complaint which, if it compensation or any other payment arising from such had been reported at the time it occurred could have (v) You must provide ourselves and our insurers with cancellation, delay, downgrading or denied boarding. been resolved there and then we cannot accept any all assistance we may reasonably require. You must also This includes any disappointment, distress, liability in respect of that problem or complaint. It is tell us and the supplier concerned about your claim or inconvenience or effect on any other arrangements. sensible to expect a client travelling in the developing complaint as set out in clause 9 below. The fact a delay may entitle you to cancel your flight world to be reasonably resourceful if things go wrong. does not automatically entitle you to cancel any other If you experience any difficulties, please follow the 8. Flights and your responsibility arrangements even where those arrangements have steps shown in your Travel Organiser. If the issue The flight details shown in your itinerary quotation are been made in conjunction with your flight. We have no cannot be resolved locally you can contact us in the UK for guidance only and are subject to change. Final liability to make any payment to you in relation to the on our 24 hour emergency telephone service. The details will be confirmed on your travel documentation, Denied Boarding Regulations or in respect of any flight number will be found in your Travel Organiser in the sent approximately 14 days prior to departure. The cancellation or delay, downgrading of any flight ticket Important Information section. In the unlikely event times shown on all e-tickets are local times and check or denial of any boarding as the full amount of your that an acceptable solution cannot be found, you should in for both outward and return flights is at least 3 entitlement to any compensation or other payment (as then write to us within 28 days of your return with full hours prior to the departure times on the travel dealt with above) is covered by the airline's obligations details of your complaint. If you fail to follow this documents. It is possible that flight times may be under the Denied Boarding Regulations. complaints procedure, your right to claim the changed even after e-tickets have been dispatched - we compensation you may otherwise have been entitled to will contact you as soon as possible if this occurs. We cannot accept liability for any delay unless it has a may be affected or even lost as a result. material effect on your holiday arrangements (see In accordance with EU Directive (EC) No 2111/2005 clause 4). If we cannot reach an amicable solution to any dispute Article 9, we are required to bring to your attention you do have the right to refer the dispute to the the existence of a "Community list" which contains You undertake to behave with propriety and in such a Association of Independent Tour Operators which details of air carriers who are subject to an operating manner as in no way causes or is likely to cause operates an Independent Dispute Service (details on ban within the EU. The Community list is available for distress, danger or annoyance to other clients and/or request) for resolution of the dispute by a mediator inspection at any third party or damage to property. If, in the view of provided the claim does not involve personal accident, https://ec.europa.eu/transport/modes/air/safety/air- ourselves, our employees, agents or suppliers, you are injury or illness. ban_en In accordance with EU Regulations we are in breach of this clause, we reserve the right to required to advise you of the actual carrier(s) (or, if the terminate your contract and neither we nor the 10. The brochure and quotation actual carrier(s) is not known, the likely carrier(s)) that providers of any of the services in question will have We have taken every care in ensuring that the will operate your flight(s) at the time of booking. any further contractual obligations to you either in information in the brochure and given in Where we are only able to inform you of the likely respect of covering any expenses, paying any quotations/itineraries is correct at the time of carrier(s) at the time of booking, we shall inform you of compensation or refunds, or arranging for your return publication. However we are sure you will appreciate the identity of the actual carrier(s) as soon as we home. that subsequently minor alterations may arise. We become aware of this. Any change to the operating reserve the right to change any of the prices, services carrier(s) after your booking has been confirmed will When you book with us, you accept responsibility for or other particulars contained in this brochure or any be notified to you as soon as possible. If the carrier any damage or loss caused by you. Full payment for any quotation at any time before we enter into a contract with whom you have a confirmed reservation becomes such damage or loss (reasonably estimated if not with you. If there is any change we will notify you subject to an operating ban as above as a result of precisely known) must be paid direct at the time to the before we enter into such contract. Where we state which we/ the carrier are unable to offer you a suitable accommodation owner or manager or other supplier. If that additional information, a fact sheet or a dossier is alternative the provisions of clause 4 will apply. Any the actual cost of the loss or damage exceeds the available on a particular itinerary or programme, this change in the identity of the carrier, flight timings, amount paid where estimated, you must pay the information should be regarded as a term of the and/or aircraft type (if advised) will not entitle you to difference once known. If the actual cost is less than contract. cancel or change to other arrangements without paying the amount paid, the difference will be refunded. If you our normal charges except where specified in these fail to do so, you will be responsible for meeting any The hotel classifications given on our website, in our conditions. claims subsequently made against us (together with our brochures, quotations and dossiers and fact sheets are own and the other party's full legal costs) as a result of for guidance only. They are not based on any national We can accept no responsibility if you arrive late for your actions. or international classification system, they are the the check in and miss your flight as a result nor can we opinions of our staff or agents and are quite subjective. accept responsibility for any loss by you of your You must ensure that all your travel documents, full The photographs that appear in the accommodation holiday/flight travel tickets, vouchers or coupons. passports, visas, vaccination certificates and currency section of your quotation are indicative only and may are in order and valid for travel. All costs incurred in not be of the exact room you have been quoted for. Air travel is subject to operational decisions of carriers obtaining such documentation must be paid by you. We and airports which may result in delays and diversions. regret we cannot accept any liability if you are refused 11. Special requests Please note that minor carriers sometimes change the entry onto any transport or into any country due to If you have any special request, you must advise us in departure time of short-haul or domestic flights at failure on your part to carry correct documentation. writing at the time of booking. Although we will short notice, and in some instances, schedules shown in We are able to give general advice on these matters for endeavour to pass any reasonable requests on to the the computers of intercontinental carriers differ from British citizens holding a British passport. However, relevant supplier, we regret we cannot guarantee any those actually flown by smaller local carriers. We non-British citizens and non-British passport holders request will be met. For your own protection, you advise you that it is your responsibility to be should check with their embassy or consulate vis-a-vis should obtain confirmation in writing from us that your meticulous in locally reconfirming directly with the current requirements. See also our General request will be complied with (where it is possible for carrier operating the flight. We accept no liability for Information section. us to give this) if your request is important to you. the consequences of flights missed owing to the Confirmation that a special request has been noted or passenger's failure to reconfirm. If failure to have any necessary travel or other passed on to the supplier or the inclusion of the special documents results in fines, surcharges or other financial request on your booking confirmation/invoice or any Clients flying in economy class to long-haul destinations penalty being imposed on us, you will be responsible other documentation is not a guarantee that the should be aware that flights are often full and you may for reimbursing us accordingly. request will be met by the relevant supplier. All special not be able to get seats together. We also recommend requests are subject to availability. that you check in early for a long flight, and in any case The name on your airline tickets must be the name that not less than 3 hours before the scheduled departure appears on your full passport. We regret we cannot accept any conditional bookings, time. i.e. any booking which is specified to be conditional on Please note that if you believe that we have stated the fulfilment of a particular request. All such bookings orally that a particular facility or service should be will be treated as 'standard' bookings subject to the available, but is not in the brochure or in writing from above provisions on special requests. us, please make reference to it on the booking form

Terms and conditions 43 Terms and conditions

If you have any medical problem or disability which may 13. Excursions affect your holiday, please tell us before you confirm Please note that we do not provide or arrange your booking so that we can advise as to the suitability excursions other than those listed in your itinerary and of the chosen arrangements. In any event, you must forming part of the arrangements booked and paid for give us full details in writing at the time of booking. You in the UK. Our local representatives or guides may put must also promptly advise us if any medical condition you in touch with local organisers of excursions if you or disability which may affect your holiday develops request but we can have no liability for such after your booking has been confirmed. If we excursions, as your contract for such excursions will be reasonably feel unable to properly accommodate the with a local company providing the services and not particular needs of the person concerned, we must with us. reserve the right to decline their reservation or, if full details are not given at the time of booking, cancel 14. Prices and Brochure Accuracy when we become aware of these details. Please note, the information and prices shown on our website, in our brochures and/or quotations may have 12. Your financial protection changed by the time you come to book your holiday. We hold an Air Travel Organiser's Licence issued by Whilst every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of the Civil Aviation Authority (ATOL number 4817). the website, brochures, quotations and prices at the When you buy an ATOL protected flight-inclusive time of printing or when they are given to you, holiday* from us, you will receive an ATOL Certificate. regrettably errors do occasionally occur. You must This lists the flight, accommodation, car hire and/or therefore ensure you check all details of your chosen other services that are financially protected, where you holiday (including the price) with us at the time of can get information on what this means for you, and booking. who to contact if things go wrong. We, or the suppliers identified on your ATOL Certificate, will provide you 15. Data Protection with the services listed on the ATOL Certificate (or a We will hold any personal data you supply us with suitable alternative). In some cases, where neither we (such as full name, address and date of birth) on our nor the supplier are able to do so for reasons of database in accordance with the Data Protection Act insolvency, an alternative ATOL holder may provide 1998. We may need to share this information with you with services you have bought or a suitable third parties (including airlines, see further below) to alternative (at no extra cost to you). You agree to arrange and provide your holiday. This may mean we accept that in those circumstances the alternative pass your details to third parties outside the EU, where ATOL holder will perform those obligations and you less stringent data protection controls may be in place. agree to pay any money outstanding to be paid by you We may also be required to disclose your data to under your contract to that alternative ATOL holder. regulatory bodies or public authorities such as customs However, you also agree that in some cases it will not or immigration, in order to monitor / enforce be possible to appoint an alternative ATOL holder, in compliance with applicable rules. According to IATA which case you will be entitled to make a claim under Resolution 830d, we are required to provide airlines the ATOL scheme (or your credit card issuer where with passenger mobile phone number and email applicable). If we, or the suppliers identified on your contact details for the airline to inform the passenger ATOL certificate, are unable to provide the services of any operational difficulties. listed (or a suitable alternative, through an alternative ATOL holder or otherwise) for reasons of insolvency, 16. Honeymoon Gift Service the Trustees of the Air Travel Trust may make a All honeymoon bookings and use of Audley's payment to (or confer a benefit on) you under the Honeymoon Gift Service are subject to our Terms and ATOL scheme. You agree that in return for such a conditions. It is important to note that in the payment or benefit you assign absolutely to those unfortunate event of the cancellation of your booking Trustees any claims which you have or may have arising you will be responsible for all cancellation charges as out of or relating to the non-provision of the services, detailed in our Booking terms & conditions. Audley also including any claim against us, the travel agent (or your reserve the right to charge a £150 administration fee to credit card issuer where applicable).You also agree that cover refunding all monies to your guests. These any such claims may be reassigned to another body, if refunds will only be made once all cancellation charges that other body has paid sums you have claimed under have been paid. As the client, you will take on the the ATOL scheme. responsibility for the full payment of the booking as the amount of your guest contributions cannot be *The air inclusive holidays and flights we arrange are guaranteed. ATOL protected providing they are made available in the UK. For further information, visit the Civil Aviation Audley Travel Group Limited. Registered Address: Authority website at www.caa.co.uk/atol-protection/ New Mill, New Mill Lane, Witney, Oxfordshire OX29 9SX. Registered in England with Company Reg. No. Not all holiday or travel services offered and sold by us 3190720. VAT Reg. No.125454721. June 2017. will be protected by the ATOL scheme. The Association of Bonded Travel Organisers Trust Limited (ABTOT) provides financial protection under the Package Travel, Package Holidays and Package Tours Regulations 1992 for Audley Travel (ABTOT Membership number 5297) and in the event of their insolvency, protection is provided for the following:

1. non-flight packages commencing in and returning to the UK; 2. non-flight packages commencing and returning to a country other than the UK; and 3. flight inclusive packages that commence outside of the UK, which are sold to customers outside of the UK.

1, 2 and 3 provides for a refund in the event you have not yet travelled. 1 and 3 provides for repatriation. Please note that bookings made outside the UK are only protected by ABTOT when purchased directly with Audley Travel.

44 Terms and conditions Terms and conditions

Terms and conditions 45