VIETNAM Vietnam War Aviation Sites, Museums & Collections; Air Force Base Gate Guardians; Cu Chi Tunnels; DMZ; My Lai; and Limited Sightseeing

VIETNAM Vietnam War Aviation Sites, Museums & Collections; Air Force Base Gate Guardians; Cu Chi Tunnels; DMZ; My Lai; and limited sightseeing

PROVISIONAL ITINERARY & GENERAL INFORMATION Friday, 2nd – Saturday, 17th March, 2018

For those looking for somewhere different to visit we are pleased to announce our first ever aviation tour to the reunited Vietnam, which, during the Vietnam War - from December 1956 to the fall of Saigon (now Ho Chi Minh City) on 30th April 1975 - was the scene of bitter fighting between the northern and southern halves of the country, and their many allies.

Our itinerary features some well-known battle sites, aircraft remains and crash sites, aviation museums and collections, e.g.:

 Hoa Lo Prison – the “Hanoi Hilton”  Vietnam Military History Museum  Huu Tiep Lake (B-52 wreck)  Museum of Victory Over B-52s  Museum of Military Zone Thu Do  Museum of the Air Defence and Air Force  Museum of Military Zone 4  Dong Loc T-Junction  Khe Sanh Combat Base Museum (ex-USMC airbase)  Hue Military Museum  De-Militarized Zone (DMZ)  Vinh Moc underground tunnels  Museum of Military Zone 5 / Ho Chi Minh Museum  Museum of Quang Nam  Ho Chi Minh City Museum  Reunification Palace  War Remnants Museum  Ho Chi Minh Campaign Museum  Cu Chi Tunnels  Bien Hoa Airbase Military Museum  Museum of the Air Force, Ho Chi Minh  Long Bien Bridge  Hien Luong Bridge

There are also several non-aviation visits and experiences to enjoy during our travels around the country: Photos above courtesy: of Phil Boyden  Day and overnight cruise around the World Heritage site of Ha Long Bay, with its incredible limestone karsts, caves, grottos etc (pictured left)  Mausoleum and Residence of Ho Chi Minh  Train from Ha Tinh city to Dong Ha  Imperial Citadel in Hue: home of former Kings of Vietnam  My Lai – the infamous massacre of civilians  the famous Ho Chi Minh Trail

We visit all the major aviation sites, both large and small, in the country. Plus some sightseeing: why travel all the way to the other side of the world, to such a different culture, and not see something of the country and its friendly people?

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Ian Allan Aviation Tours Terminal House, Shepperton, Middlesex, TW17 8AS, United Kingdom Telephone: +44 (0)1932 255625 Fax: +44 (0)1932 231942 e-mail: [email protected] www.ianallantravel.com/aviationtours

We fly from London’s Heathrow Airport on the non-stop scheduled international (and domestic) services of Vietnam Airlines; in-country we travel by chartered coach, rail and boat; for your comfort we stay in superior 4* hotels; and, in addition to your Ian Allan Tour Manager, we are accompanied by a local English-speaking official guide.

All breakfasts and evening meals, and some lunches, as stated each day, are included in the tour price. Dinners will either be in the hotel (or superior local restaurants which cater for overseas visitors).

This promises to be an enjoyable and memorable holiday for both aviation - and non-aviation - enthusiasts alike!

PROVISIONAL ITINERARY (all times local)

DAY 1: FRIDAY, 2nd MARCH Between 07:30 – 08:00 please check-in with Vietnam Airlines who operate from Terminal 4 at London’s Heathrow Airport. Then meet your Ian Allan Tour Manager and fellow enthusiasts who will be gathering in the check in area. Latest check-in time is 3 hours prior to departure i.e. 08:00.

 London Heathrow Airport, Terminal 4 Flight: VN 54 (B787) Departs: 11:00

DAY 2: SATURDAY, 3rd MARCH (Dinner)  Ha Noi Arrives: 05:10

After Immigration, Baggage Reclaim and Customs, we enter the Arrivals Hall and meet our local guide. We start our time in Vietnam with their famous “Hanoi Pho and Coffee” breakfast.

As our hotel rooms will not be ready for occupation, we make a short visit to the Mausoleum and Residence of Ho Chi Minh.

Late morning we arrive at the Army Hotel, staying tonight at this fine hotel; for details of location and facilities please see page 8.

The remainder of the day is free to rest and/or explore at your leisure.

At 18:45 we meet in reception and go along to the restaurant for our evening meal at 19:00.

DAY 3: SUNDAY, 4th MARCH (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner) This morning we drive through the countryside to the coast, to Ha Long Bay, a World Heritage site.

The Bay consists of a dense cluster of some 1,600 limestone monolithic islands each topped with thick jungle vegetation, rising spectacularly from the ocean. Several of the islands are hollow, with enormous caves. The bay stretches from Yên Hưng to the Gulf of Tonkin in the south, is bordered on the north by China, and on the west and southwest by Cát Bà Island. The Bay has a coastline stretching 75miles/120kms and is approximately 970 square miles/1,553 kms² in size, with about 2,000 islets.

We set sail in the afternoon (pictured), with picturesque views of the hundreds of limestone karsts protruding out of the deep blue waters, weathered into many shapes. There will be optional opportunities to visit caves, grottos, floating fishing villages and aqua farms, and even a swim on Tip Top Island. Or relax on the sundeck with a cool drink from the bar.

Our cruise continues through the night, sleeping in comfortable cabins: for details of the vessel’s facilities and accommodation, please see a summary on page 8 and their website: www.pelicancruise.com

DAY 4: MONDAY, 5th MARCH (Brunch and Dinner) Arriving back at Ha Long Bay at 11:00 we board the coach and return to Hanoi, checking in again at the Army Hotel for 2 nights.

We then visit the Long Bien Bridge which was bombed virtually on a daily basis during the Vietnam War by US bombers including B-52s.

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DAY 5: TUESDAY, 6th MARCH (Breakfast and Dinner) At 09:00 we depart for the Museum of the Air Defence and Air Force; its large collection of aircraft include 1 or more examples of: L-29 Delfin; An-2 (plaque states that this aircraft was used in the attack on a secret US radar site at Phou Pha Thi Battle of Lima Site 85); UH-1H Iroquois; A-37 Dragonfly; O-1 Bird Dog; A-1H Skyraider; Kamov Ka-25Bsh; F-4 Phantom IIB (wreckage); MiG-17F (plaque states that on 19th April 1972 this and other aircraft bombed the USS Higbee and USS Oklahoma City in the Gulf of Tonkin); MiG-21PFM and MF (the PFM has 12 victory stars painted on its nose, and the plaque states that one of the victories was US Air Force F-4E (67-0296), shot down on 5th July 1972; the MF has 8 victory stars on its nose, with the plaque stating that one of the victories was a B-52D, shot down on 27th December 1972); Mil Mi-4; (the plaque states that this was Ho Chi Minh's personal helicopter); Mil Mi-6 Hook; Mil Mi-24 Hind; F-5 Freedom Fighter; Ryan Firebee (wreckage); Shenyang J-5 (plaque states that this aircraft scored 9 victories, one of which was a US Air Force F-4C (63-7614), shot down on 12th May 1967); Shenyang J-6; TL-1 (a Vietnamese designed and built training and liaison aircraft); and a Zlin Z-26. Website: http://placesinvietnam.org/2939/air-defense-air-force-museum/

Then to Huu Tiep Lake and the poignant remains of a B-52D. Call sign "Rose Zero One", it was flown by the 99th Bomb Wing based on Westover AFB, MA but was operating out of U-Tapao airbase in Thailand. It was shot down over Hanoi by a SA-2 SAM during Operation "Linebacker II" on the night of 18th/19th December 1972, and crashed in Huu Tiep Lake. Of the 6 crew, 2 were killed and 4 taken prisoner.

The wreckage of 56-0908 has lain untouched since it crashed 46 years ago! It is now a War Memorial, in what is also known as the "B-52 Lake".

DAY 6: WEDNESDAY, 7th MARCH (Breakfast and Dinner) We start the day with a look around the very famous POW prison, Hoa Lo – or as it was nicknamed by the Americans, the “Hanoi Hilton” – now a museum.

Our second visit is to the little museum with the big name: the Museum of Military Zone Thu Do/Museum of Victory Over B-52s! On display here are the remains of several shot-down B-52Gs and a North Vietnamese Air Force MiG-21F. Website: http://vmhm.org.vn/tabid/56/language/en-GB/Default.aspx

Next is the Vietnam Military History Museum: exhibits include a Bell UH-1H Iroquois; wreckage of a B-52G shot down during Operation Linebacker II; Cessna A-37B Dragonfly; 2 Douglas A-1E & H Skyraiders; MiG-17F; 2 MiG-21s MF and PFM; and various armoured fighting vehicles, e.g. T-34 and T-54 tanks. Photo: courtesy of Phil Boyden

Mid-afternoon we check in at Ha Noi Airport for our Vietnam Airlines flight to Vinh:

 Hanoi Flight: VN 1715 Departs: 19:05  Vinh Arrives: 19:55

Upon arrival we transfer to the quaintly named Muong Thanh Grand Phuong Dong Hotel, for one night: see page 8 for details.

DAY 7: THURSDAY, 8th MARCH (Breakfast and Dinner) At 09:00 we visit the Museum of Military Zone 4 where there is a MiG-17F on display. The city of Vinh experienced war with the French before the USA, and was a major target during the latter conflict with most of the city bombed to destruction.

From Vinh we drive to the famous Dong Loc T-Junction. The intersection of provincial roads 5 and 15 was the most important junction on the Ho Chi Minh Trail, and during the war it was heavily bombarded by the US Air Force as it tried to destroy the ‘choke point’ and slow down the passage of the many trucks carrying soldiers, food, arms and munitions moving south.

This historic site witnessed the death of thousands of soldiers, volunteers, traffic workers, drivers and civilians.

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This 12 mile/20km section of road underwent 2,057 air bombardments by bombers including the mighty B-52. A unit of 10 young female volunteers, aged 17 to 20, was assigned to keep the road open to traffic. Despite the repeated heavy bombardments, they stayed at their post, using only shovels and hoes to level the numerous and never-ending bomb craters. As the memorial records, they were all tragically killed during an air attack on 24th July 1968.

Continuing, we arrive at Yen Trung railway station in Ha Tinh City, and take our seats on the local train “SE5” departing at 15:30 for the journey through the Vietnamese countryside to Dong Ha, Quang Tri. During our time on the train we have a packed dinner.

Arriving in Dong Ha at 21:35 our waiting coach takes us to Quang Tri City (25 minutes away), where we check-in at the Saigon Dong Ha Hotel for the night. Details of the hotel are on page 9.

DAY 8: FRIDAY, 9th MARCH (Breakfast and Dinner) This morning we have an early breakfast and at 08:00 drive to Vinh Moc to visit the amazing underground village on the site of the De-Militarized Zone (DMZ).

We also stop at the Hien Luong Bridge, on the border which once divided North Vietnam from South Vietnam. During the Vietnam War, as a high-priority target, hardly a day went by without it being bombed by the Americans – and every time they managed to hit it, it was repaired virtually overnight!

Inside the Reunification Museum there are many artefacts include pieces of shot-down American planes, a helmet and bombs of various sorts. The highlight, though, is the fantastic, over the top, life-size diorama depicting the capture of an American pilot. The bronze figure of the "Yankee" is on his knees with hands held up, while two very chuffed looking bronze Vietnamese point guns at him – to the painted backdrop of pastoral rural scenes with peasants and water buffalo on the one side, and scenes of fiery battle with US planes dropping from the sky on the other; while "underneath" is the everyday life in the (Vinh Moc) tunnels. Another such diorama shows Vietcong fighters emerging from the tiny tunnel entrances (of Cu Chi style) to head straight towards the US forces – in full daylight. In reality, they'd wait for the cover of darkness for their guerrilla attacks. Website: www.dark-tourism.com/index.php/15-countries/individual-chapters/572- hien-luong-bridge-vietnam

At midday we continue to Khe Sanh the former US Marine airbase, about 100kms away, the scene of a long and very vicious struggle between the North Vietnamese and American forces.

The Battle of Khe Sanh was conducted between 21st January and the 9th July 1968.

During the battle, a massive aerial bombardment campaign (Operation Niagara) was launched by the US Air Force to support the Marine base. Over 100,000 tons of bombs (equivalent in destructive force to 5 Hiroshima-size atomic bombs!) were dropped until mid-April by aircraft of the US Air Force, Navy and Marines onto the surrounding areas of the base. This was roughly 1,300 tons of bombs dropped daily: 5 tons for every one of the 20,000 North Vietnam Army (NVA) soldiers initially committed to the battle.

In addition, 158,000 large-calibre shells were delivered on the ring of hills looking down on to the base, or 8 shells per NVA soldier on the battlefield.

The Khe Sanh Combat Base Museum has 2 UH-1Hs and a CH-47A Chinook on display.

We then continue to the imperial City of Hue; arriving around 19:00 we check in to the Eldora Hotel: for details please see page 9.

DAY 9: SATURDAY, 10th MARCH (Breakfast and Dinner) Leaving the hotel at 09:00 we visit the Hue Military Museum which has a UH-1M Iroquois on view.

This is followed with a brief visit to the Imperial Citadel, the fort and city of the former Kings of Vietnam.

We then drive to Danang, climbing through the Central Range to enjoy a panoramic view of the mountains and sea at Hai Van Pass. Descending to Lang Co beach we take a break before continuing to Danang. Time permitting we take a look at the Marble Mountain and its cave pagodas.

We stay the next 3 nights at the Stay Hotel Danang: see page 9 for details.

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DAY 10: SUNDAY, 11th MARCH (Breakfast and Dinner) After breakfast we set-off on the 94 mile/150 kms drive to the village of My Lai, stopping briefly en-route at the Museum of Quang Nam to see the UH-1 Iroquois.

The My Lai massacre is probably one of the most infamous events of the Vietnam War, taking place on the 16th March 1968 - 50 years ago next week! The village had about 700 inhabitants and shortly after dawn a platoon of soldiers, commanded by Lieutenant William Calley, were dropped by helicopter. Their orders were to destroy the village as it was suspected the Viet Cong (VC) were operating out of there and the surrounding area – in fact there were no VCs in the village. As they moved through the village they started to fire at the villagers. As could be clearly seen, there were only women, children and the elderly as all the young men had gone to the paddy fields to work. The actual number killed has never been established: figures range from less than 175 to as high as 504. The memorial itself lists 504 names, with ages ranging from 1 to 82 years. Website: www.historylearningsite.co.uk/my_lai_massacre.htm

DAY 11: MONDAY, 12th MARCH (Breakfast and Dinner) This morning we visit the Museum of the Military Zone 5/Ho Chi Minh Museum; exhibits include: 2 MiG-21s, F-5A-37, UH-1 and U-17.

The remainder of the day is a leisure. en DAY 12: TUESDAY, 13th MARCH (Breakfast and Dinner) Departing at 09:00 we transfer to Da Nang airport and check in for our flight to Ho Chi Minh (formerly called Saigon, the capital of South Vietnam).

 Da Nang Flight: VN 121 Departs: 11:45  Ho Chi Minh Arrives: 13:10

This afternoon we visit the Independence (previously the Reunification) Palace which has a UH-1H Iroquois and a Northrop F-5E Tiger II fighter on display in the grounds.

Then to the nearby Ho Chi Minh City Museum: on public view here is a UH- 1H, A-37B Dragonfly and a F-5A Freedom Fighter. Website: www.hcmc-museum.edu.vn/en-us/home-page.aspx

We then check in to the A&EM Signature Hotel where we stay the next 3 nights. For details of the hotel please see page 10.

The remainder of the day is at leisure.

DAY 13: WEDNESDAY, 14th MARCH (Breakfast and Dinner) At 08:00 we leave for the famous Cu Chi tunnels and see something of the incredible experiences, hardships, ingenuity and dedication of the Vietnamese people and soldiers.

The Cu Chi tunnels are an elaborate underground community made up of 155 miles/250 kms of tunnels and chambers below the town. They were dug with simple tools and bare hands during the French occupation in the 1940s, and further expanded during the Vietnam War in the 1960s to provide refuge and a defensive advantage over the American soldiers. Despite all the bombings in their town, the Cu Chi people were able to continue their lives beneath the soil, where they slept, ate, planned attacks, healed their sick, and taught their young. Some even wed and gave birth underground: but over 10,000 (!) lost their lives here. Website: www.cuchitunnel.org.vn/

We also stop at another part of the tunnel complex to see 2 UH-1H Iroquois, a MiG-17 and a MiG-21PF.

On the way back to our hotel we stop by the aircraft on display at the Bien Hoa Military Museum on Bien Hoa Airbase: a UH-1H and a MiG-21PFM.

DAY 14: THURSDAY, 15th MARCH (Breakfast and Dinner) A free day in Ho Chi Minh. Various sightseeing tours can be booked at the hotel.

DAY 15: FRIDAY, 16th MARCH (Breakfast and Dinner) Mid-morning we check out of the hotel, load our luggage on our coach and set off on our 3 final visits, done in no particular order.

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The War Remnants Museum comprises a series of themed rooms in several buildings, with period military equipment placed within a walled yard. The military equipment includes a CH-47A Chinook, UH-1 Huey, F-5A fighter, A-1 Skyraider, A-37 Dragonfly (pictured left), a BLU-82 "Daisy Cutter" bomb and a M48 Patton tank. There are a number of pieces of unexploded ordnance stored in the corner of the yard, with their charges and/or fuses removed.

One building has reproductions of the infamous ‘tiger cages’ in which the South Vietnamese government kept political prisoners. Other exhibits include graphic photography, accompanied by a short text in English, Vietnamese and Japanese, covering the effects of Agent Orange and other chemical defoliant sprays, the use of napalm and phosphorus bombs, and war atrocities such as the My Lai massacre. Also on show is the guillotine used by the French and South Vietnamese to execute prisoners, the last time being in 1960, and three jars of preserved human foetuses allegedly deformed by exposure to dioxins and dioxin-like compounds, contained in the defoliant Agent Orange! Website: http://warremnantsmuseum.com/

Our next visit is to the Military Museum of Ho Chi Minh City, a small collection devoted to Ho Chi Minh’s campaign to liberate what was then South Vietnam. Outside is a South Vietnamese Air Force Cessna A-37 Dragonfly and an F-5E Tiger (its 20mm nose gun is, allegedly, still loaded!).

The tank on display is very historic: it was shown around the world on live TV as it broke into the grounds of Reunification Palace on 30th April 1975. Website: www.lonelyplanet.com/vietnam/ho-chi-minh- city/sights/museums-galleries/military- museum#ixzz2r2B0sKxV

In the northern suburbs of the city is the Museum of the Air Force in Ho Chi Minh City; exhibits include a UH-1H, A- 37B, Cessna 185 (UH-17B) Skywagon, F-5A Freedom Fighter, Mig-21PFM, Mil Mi8T and a Mil Mi-24A (pictured right).

We enjoy our evening meal in the city before going out to the airport and checking in with Vietnam Airlines for our direct flight back to London; latest recommended check-in time is 3 hours prior to departure: 21:35.

DAY 16: SATURDAY, 17th MARCH  Ho Chi Minh Flight: VN 51 (B787) Departs: 00:35  London Heathrow Airport, Terminal 4 Arrives: 07:15

Whilst waiting for our luggage in Baggage Reclaim we take the opportunity to bid each other farewell – until we meet again!

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TOUR PRICE TOUR: 227819 PER PERSON

From £ 2,349.00 Based on sharing a twin bedded room with private facilities, on a Half Board basis (breakfast and evening meal) plus brunch and lunches as stated

From £ 445.00 Single room supplement

On request Land only (please speak with one of our consultants before booking)

TOUR PRICE INCLUDES

 Flights on the scheduled services of Vietnam Airlines from London’s Heathrow Airport  UK and Vietnamese Airport Taxes, and UK Passenger Service Charge  Flights on the scheduled services of Vietnam Airlines: Hanoi-Vinh, and Da Nang-Ho Chi Minh City  Departure Tax in Vietnam  Train from Ha Tinh City to Dong Ha  Afternoon-Night-Morning cruise of Ha Long Bay, with meals as stated  All road transfers by air-conditioned coach  13-night’s accommodation in rooms with private facilities  Meals (all breakfasts, one brunch, all evening meals and some lunches) as stated  One bottle of mineral water each day (when in Vietnam)  Admission to all visits as stated  Any additional charge to take photographs at the stated visits  Services of local English-speaking guides  Services of an Ian Allan Tour Manager  Local guides gratuity  Coach driver’s gratuity 

NOT INCLUDED

 Visa – see General Information  Any optional excursions or pleasure flights offered during the tour  Travel insurance – see General Information  Personal expenditure, e.g. telephone calls, laundry, drinks, etc  Additional tips and gratuities

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OUR HOTELS

HANOI ARMY HOTEL Located in the bustling Ba Dinh district of Hanoi, the Army Hotel is a combination of traditional Vietnamese culture and contemporary facilities.

All rooms are equipped with a flat-screen TV and a private bathroom fitted with a bathtub. Free wi-fi is available in the rooms and throughout the property.

On-site facilities include a fitness centre, a large outdoor pool and a restaurant.

Guests have 24-hour access to front desk services that include room service and laundry.

Army Hotel is 40 minutes drive away from Noi Bai International Airport, with landmarks such as Hoan Kiem Lake, Dong Xuan Market and the Temple of Literature just 20 minutes walk away. It is also located adjacent to the Hanoi Old Citadel.

Ba Dinh is a great choice for travellers interested in sightseeing, exploring the old town and restaurants.

Website: http://armyhotel.com.vn/

HA LONG BAY HALONG PELICAN CRUISE SHIP A 4-star Halong Pelican cruise. All 22 cabins have internet access (charges apply for wi-fi), complimentary bottled water, air conditioning, non-smoking rooms as well as other amenities. The ship offers room service, coffee shop, shops as part of its superior facilities and services.

The restaurant serves breakfast, lunch and dinner, in a mix of Western and Vietnamese fine cooking, while the wide upper sundeck allows you to watch the fabulous scenery float by - sipping an aperitif or cold drink from the bar.

Website: www.pelicanhalongcruise.com/cruise/halong-pelican-cruise-halong-bay-cruises

VINH MUONG THANH GRAND PHUONG DONG HOTEL

The hotel is located in the centre of Vinh City (the home of “Uncle Ho Chi Minh”), opposite to Ho Chi Minh Square, Central Park and Intimex Supermarket.

The hotel’s comprehensive facilities include: restaurant, coffee shop, bar, nightclub, laundry service, outdoor swimming pool, poolside bar, safety deposit boxes, salon, wi-fi in public areas, fitness centre, massage, sauna, spa, steam room, tennis courts and in-room internet and free wi-fi throughout the hotel.

Website: http://grandphuongdong.muongthanh.com/en/home.html

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QUANG TRI SAIGON DONG HA HOTEL Situated opposite Dong Ha Market, the hotel is just steps away from the Hieu River. Centrally located, the property is just 1.9 miles from Dong Ha train station.

All 98 rooms offer 24-hour room service and LCD TV’s with satellite channels. Minibars, coffee makers and free bottled water.

There are 2 restaurants, a full-service spa and 2 bars/lounges inside this smoke-free hotel. Additionally, there is a 24 hour fitness centre, a poolside bar and a coffee shop/café. Wi-Fi in public areas is free.

Website: www.saigondonghahotel.com/

HUE ELDORA HOTEL Featuring an indoor swimming pool, a restaurant and a fitness centre, the Eldora Hotel is located just 550 yards away from Huong River.

The hotel is 900 yards from the well-known Notre Dame Cathedral; the An Dinh Palace and Trang Tien Bridge are both half a mile away.

Rooms feature stylish decor with elegant furnishings. Each room is fitted with a minibar, a tea/coffee maker and a flat- screen TV. A stand-alone sunken bathtub and a hairdryer are included in all the bathrooms. Free Wi-Fi access is available throughout the hotel.

The on-site restaurant serves a buffet of local Vietnamese cuisines and Western favourites. On the roof is the Skyline bar with its panoramic views over the city.

Website: http://eldorahotel.com/

DA NANG STAY HOTEL A 4-star hotel with a large outdoor pool, a fitness centre, sauna, a steam bath and a spa pool and free wi-fi.

All rooms offer nice views and are elegantly decorated and fully air conditioned; there is bottled water and tea/coffee making facilities.

Saigon Cafe is located in the lobby area and offers refreshing drinks, a variety of light snacks, cocktails and special draught beers and wines.

Orchard Deli Restaurant offers an international menu including local specialities. Light snacks and drinks are offered at the poolside bar.

Relax with a traditional Thai or Vietnamese massage at the spa. There is also a sauna, a steam bath and a spa pool.

Website: http://stayhotel.com.vn/gioi-thieu.html

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HO CHI MIN A&EM SIGNATURE HOTEL Located in District 1, known as the heart of Ho Chi Minh City, it is just a 5-minute walk to Ho Chi Minh City Museum, Ben Thanh Market and the Independence Palace.

On-site facilities include an in-house restaurant and tea lounge; there is also a rooftop swimming pool and bar, a spa and wellness centre with a sauna and steam room.

All rooms have air conditioning, seating area, safety deposit box and a flat-screen TV with cable/satellite channels. En suite bathroom in each room has shower facilities, hairdryer, free toiletries and bathrobes.

There is free wi-fi throughout the property.

Website: www.a-emhotels.com/hotel?id=658

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GENERAL INFORMATION

Payment for Ian Allan Aviation Tours A deposit of £750.00 per person should accompany your Booking Form, with the balance due 10 weeks prior to the tour’s departure. Please see your Booking Confirmation/Invoice for the exact date. Please note that a reminder of the payment date will not be sent.

Tours Affected by World Events or Unforeseen/Unplanned Circumstances In an ever-changing world, events may occur immediately before or during a tour that result in cancellations or changes to the tour itinerary. For example, an increase in security may result in an approved visit being cancelled by the host, etc.. Ian Allan Aviation Tours cannot be held responsible for any tour being cancelled, or itineraries affected, due to world events or circumstances beyond our control.

Coach Travel Ian Allan Aviation Tours only use coaches chartered from reputable companies, with a driver. Where we have had to cancel a tour, due to the small number of bookings, we have looked at the possibility of renting a 16-18 seater mini-van, with our tour manager driving. However, without exception, the hiring of such a vehicle is illegal if any of the occupants make any payment towards the rental price, fuel and/or other expenses - known as “for hire or reward”. Any such rental, made without these facts being made known to the rental company at the time of booking, also invalidates all insurance covering the vehicle, contents and persons. The DVLA has also confirmed that any “for hire or reward” rental could breach the normal driving classification of a standard UK driver’s license. Therefore, we do not undertake any tours using 9-18 seater mini-vans from a rental company; either with our tour manager, or a member of the group, driving.

Foreign & Commonwealth Office (FCO) Consular Advice The FCO's consular service is a major operation. Every hour of every day consular staff around the world are advising and helping British nationals. We suggest you visit www.fco.gov.uk/knowbeforeyougo for up-to-date passport, visa and security information on the destination you intend visiting.

In addition, the Association of British Travel Agents (ABTA) provide an Information Line for UK callers only, telephone: 020 3117 0599. This line is open between the hours 10:00 – 16:00, Monday to Friday (excluding bank holidays).

Passports and Visas Citizens of the UK are required to be in possession of a machine readable full UK Passport which must be valid for at least 6 months from the date of your return to the UK.

Until 30th June 2018 ‘British Citizen’ passport holders travelling for tourism or business can enter Vietnam for up to a maximum of 15 days (inclusive of dates of entry and exit) without a visa. If you have a different type of British nationality – for example ‘British national (overseas)’ you’ll need to get a visa or an e-visa before entering Vietnam.

Non-UK citizens should contact the Vietnamese Embassies in their country of residence for specific information and instructions.

Baggage Regulations – Vietnam Airlines – Departing from London’s Heathrow Airport Checked Baggage: Vietnam Airlines will transport 1 piece of ‘checked’ baggage per person free of charge, the total dimensions of which must not exceed 62 inches (158cms). Maximum weight is 44lbs (20kgs). Cabin Baggage: in addition to the checked baggage allowance, each passenger is allowed to take onboard the aircraft one piece of cabin baggage, up to a maximum length 22ins (56cms), width 18ins (45cms), thickness 10ins (25cms). These dimensions include wheels, handles, and side pockets. Total weight of the carry-on baggage must not exceed 15lbs (7kgs). Passengers are required to place the baggage in the overhead compartment or under their seat. Also, you can take a handbag/wallet/purse with the maximum length 15ins (37.5cms), width 10ins (25 cm), depth 5ins (12.5cms), or the total of three dimensions do not exceed 30ins (75cms) with the total weight not exceeding 3.3lbs (1.5kgs); this condition also applies to notebooks, or portable personal computers; walking stick (crutches) used by elderly passengers, sick passengers, and handicapped passengers; camera or small binoculars.

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Limited quantities of liquids are allowed as hand baggage but must be carried separately through security in a clear plastic, zip-top or re-sealable bag that does not exceed 20cm x 20cm (8 inches x 8 inches), or quart size. Individual containers must not exceed 90ml or 3 American ounces, and items must fit in the bag comfortably and the bag must be completely closed. The bag can only contain: shampoo, suntan lotions, creams, toothpaste, hair gel and hair spray, perfumes, cosmetics such as mascara and lip gloss, water and other drinks, soups and syrups and other items of a similar consistency.

At security all remaining items should be placed in the tray provided for screening, e.g. car keys and fobs, cash, solid food, books, newspapers, cigarettes and tobacco, belts and shoes. Pushchairs and walking aids are permitted but must be x-ray screened. All wheelchairs will be subject to search. Please note, you may be subject to a hand search by the security team and required to remove footwear to be x-ray screened.

Once in the departure lounge passengers may purchase certain items in any shop and take it onto the aircraft as normal. Passengers may be subject to a secondary search at the departure gate before boarding. Any items not on the approved list will be removed.

As baggage regulations can change with little warning, due to security requirements, you are strongly advised to contact the airline for the latest information nearer to the time of your departure.

Meals During our time in Vietnam meals are as stated for each day in the itinerary.

In-flight meals when included within the cost of the air ticket form part of the tour price, however some airlines (primarily European carriers) now only serve refreshments for which they charge accordingly.

Health Requirements There are currently no known mandatory or recommended precautions required for travel to Vietnam. However, we recommend that you consult your local doctor or health centre for the latest information.

Currency The official currency is the Vietnam Dong (d), but the US Dollar is widely accepted. In the main towns and cities visited by tourists most hotels will accept either.

 ATMs are becoming more frequent; Vietcombank has the best network in the country, including most of the major tourist destinations and all the big cities. Agribank, Vietin Bank and Sacombank are also well represented. Every branch stocks a useful leaflet with a list of their nationwide ATMs. Withdrawals are issued in Dong, and there is a single withdrawal limit of 2,000,000d (about US$90.00) per day.

 Cash: most major currencies can be exchanged at leading banks in Vietnam, but away from the tourist centres only the US Dollar. Vietcombank is the most organised of the local banks for changing cash and can deal with Pounds, Euros and several other foreign currencies.

 Credit Cards: Visa and MasterCard are now widely accepted in all major cities and many tourist centres. However, a 3% commission charge on every transaction is the norm; check first, as some charge a higher commission than others. Some merchants also accept Amex, but the surcharge is typically 4%. Better hotels and restaurants do not usually put on any additional charge.

 Cash Advance: if you wish to obtain a cash advance from Visa or MasterCard, this is possible at Vietcombank branches in most cities, as well as at some foreign banks in Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi. Banks generally charge a 3% commission for this service. This is handy if you want to take out large sums, as the ATMs have low daily limits.

 Travellers Cheques: it is wise not to rely entirely on travellers cheques - keep a reasonable amount of Dong to hand. Travellers cheques can only be exchanged at authorised foreign-exchange banks, and they are not that common. Expect to pay commission from 0.5% to 2% to change them into cash. Vietcombank charges no commission for exchanging Amex travellers cheques. If your travellers cheques are in currencies other than US dollars, they may be useless beyond the major cities. Hefty commissions are the norm - if they can be exchanged at all.

Tipping Tipping is not expected in Vietnam, but it is enormously appreciated. For a person who earns US$100.00 per month, a US$1.00 tip (or equivalent) is significant. Upmarket hotels and some restaurants may levy a 5% service charge, but this may not make it to the staff! If you stay a couple of days in the same hotel, try and remember to tip the staff who clean your room.

Gratuity for the coach drivers and our local guides are included in the tour price.

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It is considered proper to make a small donation at the end of a visit to a pagoda, especially if a monk has shown you around; most pagodas have contribution boxes for this purpose.

Climate and Dress In March, the weather in northern Vietnam has passed the severe and unpredictable phase. It is usually warm and dry; the further south the warmer it is. March is said to be one of the best months to be in Ho Chi Minh City.

With warm temperatures and plenty of sunshine we recommend summer items of clothing plus a waterproof for any rain we may encounter during the few days we are in central Vietnam.

Travel Insurance For citizens of the United Kingdom, Ian Allan Aviation Tours can provide competitive and comprehensive insurance cover for the duration of your tour. However, if you do not wish to take out our insurance, you must ensure that comparable or greater cover is taken. The number of your Insurance Policy should be written, if known, on your Booking Form at the time of making the reservation, but no later than the date when final payment is due. A copy of the policy must be forwarded to Ian Allan Aviation Tours.

Individual insurance policies are arranged through CoverMore Insurance Services Limited; the premiums for which will vary according to your circumstances. Full details are available on request.

Wheelchair Assistance at Airports If you require wheelchair assistance at the airports you must have this service requested and confirmed in advance. Airlines and airports no longer provide this service without prior confirmation. Please annotate your booking form accordingly

Flexible Itinerary We are very happy for enthusiasts to take time away from the printed itinerary to pursue their own interests during multi-day stays in the same place, so long as they inform the Tour Manager. It will be the individual’s responsibility to ensure that they re-join the group in the hotel at the stated time on the day of departure.

Land Only Price For enthusiasts who would prefer to join the tour in Ha Noi (instead of flying from the UK with the main group), we will happy to quote you a ‘Land Only’ price. This price will not include any international long-haul flights and you are strongly advised to contact us before making your own flight arrangements in the event that there has been a change to the published itinerary. Nor will the price include the 2 domestic flights with Vietnam Airlines but we are able to quote on request.

Please note that the ‘Land Only’ price is based on you meeting the tour at the hotel in Hanoi and does not include the transfer from the airport; however, should your arrival coincide with that of the group, a seat will be offered at a supplement of £25.00.

Flight Timings & Connecting Travel Arrangements to Departure Airport All flight departure and arrival times are correct at the time of preparing each itinerary, however, airlines change times with little or no prior warning. In practice such changes are only a few minutes either way and the final itinerary will show the actual times. Clients making their own arrangements to get to the departure airport by air, rail, coach etc., should bare the above in mind if purchasing non-refundable or non-changeable tickets. Ian Allan Aviation Tours cannot be held responsible for any changes to flight times, and any privately arranged travel tickets to the airport becoming invalid.

Pre-departure For connecting flights from UK regional airports please call Ian Allan Aviation Tours on 01932 255625 for the latest special offers.

Airport Hotel and/or Car Parking We can offer special rates for the above at most UK airports, please ask for details.

“Purple” Meet & Greet Car Parking: from your home or overnight hotel, simply drive directly to Terminal 4, to the “Pick-Up and Drop Off” lanes located on the top, external, floor of the short stay car park which is connected to the terminal. Here you will be met by a representative of Purple Parking and your car will then be taken to an off-airport, secure, car park while you walk the few yards to the lift and go through into the terminal! On your return the company’s representative, with your car, will be waiting for you at the same place you dropped it off. Simple and very convenient. Recommended by our Tour Managers – please call for details.

Pleasure Flights – Disclaimer Should you decide to undertake any pleasure/sightseeing flights which have not been offered or sanctioned by us, Ian Allan Aviation Tours will not be held liable for any injuries or death resulting thereon.

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