8 Day Essential Vietnam
From
$849
Land Only
$1689*
Air & Land
Featured Hotels
(Hotels may vary based on departure day of the week)
| Wednesday Departure | ||
|---|---|---|
| Northern Charm Hotel | Ho Chi Minh | |
| Halong Palace Hotel | Halong Bay | |
| May de Ville Corner Hotel | Hanoi | |
| Saturday Departure | ||
|---|---|---|
| Northern Charm Hotel | Ho Chi Minh | |
| Halong Palace Hotel | Halong Bay | |
| May de Ville Corner Hotel | Hanoi | |
Select a Date to Book
Select a Date to Book
| 2026 Dates & Prices Single Supplement: $250 | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hotel | Dates | Embark | Tour Starts | Ship | Land Only | Air & Land |
| $849 | $1889* | |||||
Not Included:
Optional tours and gratuities (unless otherwise specified).
Additional Information:
Land only price does not include arrival/departure transfers, but does include flight Ho Chi Minh-Hanoi.
Passengers should select flights that arrive no later than 3 AM on Day 3.
Passengers traveling abroad require a passport valid for six months beyond their travel dates. All travelers are responsible to check if a visa is required for all countries on their itinerary. For visa information, check our Visas page.
Is This Trip Right for You?
Escorted Package Includes
- Flights Los Angeles-Ho Chi Minh, Hanoi-Los Angeles
Other departure cities available. Click on date of departure for selection and prices - Intra-flight: Ho Chi Minh-Hanoi
- 6 nights accommodations
- 3 nights Ho Chi Minh
- 1 night Halong Bay
- 2 nights Hanoi
- Hotel taxes, fees & service charges
- Hotel porterage
- All transfers included only with airfare purchase on package arrival & departure dates†
- 7 meals: 6 breakfasts, 1 lunch
- Sightseeing per itinerary in modern air-conditioned motor coach
- Services of English-speaking tour manager throughout
- Entrance fees per itinerary
- Tips for porters, wait staff & local guides on included services
- Comfortable wireless earphones for enhanced touring
Special Features
- Leisure time to enjoy Ho Chi Minh former Saigon with its magnificent French colonial architecture
- View the thousands of limestone islands rising out of the sea during the Halong Bay excursion
- Time to explore the capital city of Hanoi, a fascinating blend of East and West, at your own pace
♦ Flights from the USA may arrive on DAY 3.
†Transfers are available for purchase for land only or on alternative flight dates if pre/post accommodations are booked through Gate 1 Travel
Not Included:
Optional tours gratuities. (unless otherwise specified).
Is This Trip Right for You?
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Gate 1 Travel itineraries may contain suggestions for activities for your leisure time; these suggestions do not constitute a recommendation nor an endorsement of any specific service provider and the decision to participate in any such activities should be made independently.
This first class hotel is located in Ho Chi Minh with easy access to the city's attractions.
Hotel Details
This first class hotel is located in Hanoi within walking distance of the Hanoi Opera House.
Hotel Details
This first class hotel is located in Ho Chi Minh with easy access to the city's attractions.
Hotel Details
This first class hotel is located in Hanoi within walking distance of the Hanoi Opera House.
Hotel Details- Tours purchased while travelling may cost an extra 10% or more
- Tours often sell out. Avoid disappointment
- Save your cash. Credit card processing may not be possible locally
- Travel insurance only covers services purchased prior to departure
- Book Online or call to book these tours up to 1 week before your departure
- The day the optionals operate varies by the day of the week
The Cu Chi tunnels were part of an underground tunnel network built by the Viet Cong to control a large rural area near Saigon. These tunnels were first used during the French/Vietnamese War (1946-1954) and later used by the Viet Cong as a base of operations during the 1968 Tet offensive. The Cu Chi network includes 125 miles of tunnels with many branches connecting to underground hideouts, weapon factories, hospitals, shelters and other tunnels. The entire structure was dug out of the rock by hand tools without the use of cement. On this tour, you'll learn about the tunnels and other aspects of the war. Opportunity for a brief view of life underground as you enter areas that have been enlarged to create easier access for visitors. The majority of the tour will be above the tunnels.
Note, this tour is presented from a Vietnamese perspective, based on past wars with France and the United States. If you are uncomfortable with the expressed point-of-views and prefer not to hear this discussion, then we recommend that you do not participate.
Approximate tour duration is 5 hours.
| Day #3 | 01 Sep 2025 - 30 Jun 2026 | $35.00 |
Embark on a guided tour of Ho Chi Minh City and immerse yourself in its vibrant atmosphere. Admire the impressive neo-Romanesque Notre Dame Cathedral, Central Post Office with its French style architecture, City Hall, and the magnificent French colonial façade of Saigon Opera House. From here, head to the lively Ben Thanh Market - where an unbelievable assortment of wares and crafts are sold under one roof. Continue to Dong Khoi Street, a major shopping thoroughfare in the center of the city with beautifully restored French colonial buildings.
Approximate tour duration is 4 hours.
| Day #3 | 01 Jul 2025 - 30 Jun 2026 | $26.00 |
The Mekong River is the lifeblood of Southeast Asia. It starts from Tibet, running through 5 countries before entering Vietnam and created a great basin via its 9 tributaries. Today's journey into the Mekong Delta region will take us along the newly built highway, picturesque countryside and seemingly endless paddy fields. Upon arrival at My Tho, you will board a private motor boat for a fascinating cruise along the river, observing the daily life of local people on the waterways. The tour includes a sampan ride through the winding canals, a visit to a coconut factory, handicraft workshop, honey bee farm. You will be introduced to the daily life of the local people, learning about local fruit and plants as well as an opportunity to sample some local tropical fruit in an orchard. The tour ends with a great lunch at a local restaurant by the river bank.
Return to Ho Chi Minh City by bus.
Approximate tour duration is 8.5 hours.
| Day #4 | 01 Sep 2025 - 30 Jun 2026 | $86.00 |
Embark on a city tour of Hanoi that includes a cyclo ride around the bustling Old Quarter of Hanoi. The cyclo is a very common mode of transportation in Vietnam. Visit the Ho Chi Minh historic complex, which includes the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum (entrance to the mausoleum is not included), the Presidential Palace, House on Stilts and One Pillar Pagoda. Afterward, learn the craft of Vietnamese cooking! Visit the local market with a Chef, followed by a private cooking class. Sample and savor your personally cooked lunch. In the afternoon, visit Ngoc Son Temple, Hanoi's most visited temple and one of the city's Tube Houses, a tall dwelling with narrow frontage, to see first-hand how residents once lived. Later, attend a performance of the world-famous Water Puppet Show, accompanied by a traditional Vietnamese orchestra and Cheo (a form of opera). The show depicts a series of ancient Vietnamese folktales, acted out by puppets over a pool of water.
Approximate tour duration is 7 hours.
| Day #7 | 01 Jul 2025 - 30 Jun 2026 | $100.00 |
The Cu Chi tunnels were part of an underground tunnel network built by the Viet Cong to control a large rural area near Saigon. These tunnels were first used during the French/Vietnamese War (1946-1954) and later used by the Viet Cong as a base of operations during the 1968 Tet offensive. The Cu Chi network includes 125 miles of tunnels with many branches connecting to underground hideouts, weapon factories, hospitals, shelters and other tunnels. The entire structure was dug out of the rock by hand tools without the use of cement. On this tour, you'll learn about the tunnels and other aspects of the war. Opportunity for a brief view of life underground as you enter areas that have been enlarged to create easier access for visitors. The majority of the tour will be above the tunnels.
Note, this tour is presented from a Vietnamese perspective, based on past wars with France and the United States. If you are uncomfortable with the expressed point-of-views and prefer not to hear this discussion, then we recommend that you do not participate.
Approximate tour duration is 5 hours.
| Day #3 | 01 Sep 2025 - 30 Jun 2026 | $35.00 |
Embark on a guided tour of Ho Chi Minh City and immerse yourself in its vibrant atmosphere. Admire the impressive neo-Romanesque Notre Dame Cathedral, Central Post Office with its French style architecture, City Hall, and the magnificent French colonial façade of Saigon Opera House. From here, head to the lively Ben Thanh Market - where an unbelievable assortment of wares and crafts are sold under one roof. Continue to Dong Khoi Street, a major shopping thoroughfare in the center of the city with beautifully restored French colonial buildings.
Approximate tour duration is 4 hours.
| Day #3 | 01 Jul 2025 - 30 Jun 2026 | $26.00 |
The Mekong River is the lifeblood of Southeast Asia. It starts from Tibet, running through 5 countries before entering Vietnam and created a great basin via its 9 tributaries. Today's journey into the Mekong Delta region will take us along the newly built highway, picturesque countryside and seemingly endless paddy fields. Upon arrival at My Tho, you will board a private motor boat for a fascinating cruise along the river, observing the daily life of local people on the waterways. The tour includes a sampan ride through the winding canals, a visit to a coconut factory, handicraft workshop, honey bee farm. You will be introduced to the daily life of the local people, learning about local fruit and plants as well as an opportunity to sample some local tropical fruit in an orchard. The tour ends with a great lunch at a local restaurant by the river bank.
Return to Ho Chi Minh City by bus.
Approximate tour duration is 8.5 hours.
| Day #4 | 01 Sep 2025 - 30 Jun 2026 | $86.00 |
Embark on a city tour of Hanoi that includes a cyclo ride around the bustling Old Quarter of Hanoi. The cyclo is a very common mode of transportation in Vietnam. Visit the Ho Chi Minh historic complex, which includes the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum (entrance to the mausoleum is not included), the Presidential Palace, House on Stilts and One Pillar Pagoda. Afterward, learn the craft of Vietnamese cooking! Visit the local market with a Chef, followed by a private cooking class. Sample and savor your personally cooked lunch. In the afternoon, visit Ngoc Son Temple, Hanoi's most visited temple and one of the city's Tube Houses, a tall dwelling with narrow frontage, to see first-hand how residents once lived. Later, attend a performance of the world-famous Water Puppet Show, accompanied by a traditional Vietnamese orchestra and Cheo (a form of opera). The show depicts a series of ancient Vietnamese folktales, acted out by puppets over a pool of water.
Approximate tour duration is 7 hours.
| Day #7 | 01 Jul 2025 - 30 Jun 2026 | $100.00 |
| Know Before You Go | |
| Although most of the planning and preparation is taken care of for you, there are still a few things you should know and some details you should take care of to ensure your comfort, safety and peace of mind. Please review the following information before your departure to ensure that any surprises along the way will only be pleasant ones. |
| Getting Ready to Go |
| Passports and Visas |
| It is each traveler's responsibility to have a passport valid for at least 6 months beyond the dates of travel and a visa if required. Please check the information at www.gate1travel.com/visas.aspx for the specific country/region you are visiting for more details. IMPORTANT: Passengers who are not U.S. citizens must check with the respective consulate or a visa agency to determine what personal identification is required. Passengers who enter, leave and then re-enter the same country on their itinerary should check if they require a double-entry visa. Passport applications are available at most U.S. Post Offices, as well as at regional Passport Agencies. Passengers requiring visas, whether obtained in advance or locally upon arrival, should ensure that their passport has blank pages.
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| Traveling with Friends or Family? |
| If you are traveling with friends or family who are booked on another reservation, please make sure that we are aware. On occasion, we may operate more than one vehicle on your tour departure in which case we will ensure that guests will be assigned together. This is achieved by connecting your reservations before your departure. Once you arrive in your destination, it may not be possible to make assignment changes. To check that your reservations are linked, log into https://www.gate1travel.com/reservations with your email and password, select your reservation number, and check to see that your reservations are indicated as "Traveling With" at the top right side of the display. |
| Trip Preparation |
| A little pre-planning can make your trip go a lot smoother. Several weeks before your trip, make a list of what you will need to take with you. Make sure your personal documents (passports, visas, driver's license) are in order. Make sure also that you have enough prescription medications to last through the trip and carry them with you in case your luggage is delayed. Bring a change of clothes in your carry-on bag in the event that your luggage is delayed or lost. Lost luggage is common. We strongly urge you to consider carry-ons instead of checked bags when possible, and when checking a bag is necessary, choose a bag color and identification that stands out. We suggest that you make photocopies of passports, visas, personal ID and any other important travel documents and pack them separately from the originals. You may also make a digital copy of your passport to keep a clear picture with the important details in your cell phone or digital camera photos. If you lose the originals while traveling, you'll have copies for easier reporting and replacement. Pack a list of medications including dosage and generic names. You may consider bringing a small supply of over the counter medications for headaches and/or anti-diarrhea pills (especially when traveling outside of the USA and Western Europe). We recommend that you pack a portable alarm clock. Due to security reasons, many museums have restrictions on the size of bags that can be taken inside and backpacks, carry-on bags or large purses may not be permitted. It is recommended to bring a small shoulder bag or purse to use in these situations instead. Avoid placing valuables such as cameras in your checked luggage. Airplane pressure can cause similar pressure in your body, most notably in ears, as well as liquid tubes and bottles. Your physician can suggest medication for decongestion. We suggest that you place liquid containers into Ziploc bags to catch any leaks. |
| Travel Safety Advice: The safety of our guests is Gate 1’s #1 concern. Before making the decision to reserve your vacation, we want you to be aware of potential situations which may impact your holiday. While most of the time our programs run precisely according to plans, on rare occasion force majeure events including weather, transportation mechanical issues, or uninhabitable accommodation, civil unrest and even criminal or terrorist activities will present themselves unexpectedly and with little or no notice. Gate 1 will make the decision to cancel a tour only after receiving verifiable government issued information. We are otherwise obliged to comply with contractual airline and vendor agreements and carry out the tour until or unless we are advised otherwise. In the event of such an occurrence anytime after your date of departure, Gate 1 and the local destination ground staff, in coordination with government advisories, airlines, hotels, cruise ships and other vendors, will make decisions with regard to your safety first. We strongly recommend that tour participants review the destination country's specific information at https://travel.state.gov/content/passports/en/alertswarnings.html. |
| Travel Protection |
| Even the best-planned trips can be impacted by the unexpected. And that is why we recommend that you help protect yourself and your investment by purchasing Travel Protection for your Gate 1 trip. Travel Protection can help with medical coverage for illness or injury, trip cancellation and/or interruption, baggage loss, medical evacuation, and more. At any time before you complete Final Payment, you may choose to purchase Travel Protection. The protection plan premium is non-refundable after a 10-day review period. In addition, you must be medically able to travel at the time the premium is paid. For a summary of the plan details on coverages, benefits, limitations and exclusions, please refer to the Description of Coverage by visiting www.gate1travel.com/insurance/. Cancel for Any Reason Waiver Benefit (CFAR) is a non-insurance feature that allows you to cancel up to 72 hours before your scheduled departure for any reason not otherwise covered in the Travel Protection Plan. CFAR must be purchased at the same time as the Travel Protection Plan as well as within 21 days of the original booking date. Independent or escorted tour reservations will be eligible for a future travel credit equal to the full cost of your trip, less the cost of initial deposit, airline-assessed fees, amendment fees, and insurance premium. Sea or river cruise reservations will be eligible for a future travel credit equal to 50% of the cost of your trip, less the cost of initial trip deposit, airline-assessed fees, amendment fees, and insurance premium. All CFAR credits are valid for a period of two years from the original date of travel. CFAR Credits have no cash value and are not transferrable. Airline-assessed fees are generally $300 per person, but may be as much as fully non-refundable. Some non-refundable airline tickets may retain value, less airline-assessed fees. Your future air credit must be used to book with the same airline. Deadlines to rebook and complete travel vary by airline and may be as early as 12 months from when the tickets were originally issued (not the date of travel). For details, www.gate1travel.com/insurance/. This program does not apply to custom groups and Antarctica cruises. Residents of New York, Missouri & Minnesota may purchase this Cancel for Any Reason Waiver Benefit separate from Travel Protection. Call to speak with a reservation agent for details. This Cancel for any Reason Wavier Benefit is not insurance and is provided by Gate 1 Travel. |
| Mobile Phones |
| Mobile networks differ from country to country. We recommend you check with your provider to see if your wireless plan will work in the destination(s) you are visiting. To avoid possible roaming charges, you may want to consider purchasing an international plan. With most major phone companies, for a modest fee, you will be able to use your domestic plan's talk, text, and data allowances just like you do at home. If you can access the internet while you travel, you can also take advantage of services such as WhatsApp or Skype. |
| Making Telephone Calls from One Country to Another |
| When dialing a number from one country to another, you should proceed as follows: dial your country's Exit Code (often indicated with a “+” sign), then the destination Country Code, then the Phone Number. For most countries, the exit code is 00. Exceptions include the USA and Canada (011), Hong Kong and Cambodia (001), Australia (0011), and Russia (8 Pause 10*). For Brazil, please consult with the local telephone company. If you are dialing from a mobile phone, you can enter a “+” instead of the international Exit Code (011, 001, 0011 or 00) by pressing and holding the 0 key. For most countries in Africa, Asia, Europe, South America and South Pacific, if you are calling from a local phone to a number within the same country, you should drop both the exit and country codes and then add a leading 0 (zero). Exceptions include Spain, Italy, Hungary and Malta (no additional zero needed to dial locally). Example: To dial the following number in Germany (as listed on your voucher): +(49) 0555-555 From USA or your US cell phone: 011-49-555-555 From another country in Europe: 00-49-555-555 From a German phone within Germany: 0555-555 |
| WiFi Access |
| WiFi is available in most airports, hotels, and cruise lines, as well as on some flights, trains, and buses. There may be a fee for access and service quality and speed may vary greatly especially while on moving vehicles. Availability on cruises is also dependent upon its location while sailing through multiple countries. Please note that WiFi can be extremely slow, unreliable, and sometimes nonexistent in developing countries. |
| Staying Healthy While Traveling |
| Please consult with your healthcare provider for up-to-date requirements. You may also check the Centers for Disease Control (www.cdc.gov) and/or the World Health Organization (http://www.who.int/en/) for their recommendations. Any required inoculations must be documented by clients' healthcare provider on a valid vaccination certificate, which must be carried as proof where necessary. Individuals with heart disease, chronic illness, physical handicap, advanced pregnancy, or mental illness should not participate in these rigorous travel programs. While traveling, illnesses can sometimes be unavoidable. If a traveler arrives feeling ill or becomes sick during the tour, they will be separated from the group and directed to either a local or virtual medical facility for diagnosis. This precaution is necessary to ensure the well-being of all travelers. The traveler may only rejoin the group after receiving written clearance from an accredited medical facility confirming they are fit to continue. All costs associated with medical treatment and related expenses such as additional hotel nights or transportation not included in the original itinerary will be the responsibility of the passenger. Travel protection plans will only consider coverage with service receipts provided by legally qualified health care facilities, and in accordance with policy terms. There are several easy steps you can take to stay healthy while traveling which may help prevent contracting an illness while away from home.
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| Notice on Aircraft Cabin Insecticide Treatment - Please note that some countries may require aircraft cabin insecticide treatment for in-bound foreign flights. A list of such countries is available at:
http://www.dot.gov/office-policy/aviation-policy/aircraft-disinsection-requirements. |
| Thailand, Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia - No inoculations are required. However, some inoculations are recommended. During the months of Dec-Mar, severe air pollution, resulting from widespread forest fires and agricultural burning may cause respiratory problems for some. Please consult your physician before traveling to Thailand, Vietnam, Laos, and/or Cambodia. |
| Consideration for Tour Participants (Escorted Tours) |
For the benefit of all tour participants, we ask tour members to be considerate of their fellow travelers in the following ways:
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| Climate & Clothing |
| Vietnam - Southern Vietnam has two seasons, the wet season from May to November and the dry season from December to April. Northern regions also have two seasons with cool and damp conditions from November to April and generally hot, dry conditions from May through October. Bring appropriate clothing depending on the season during which you are traveling. Comfortable walking shoes, clothes you can layer and an all-weather jacket are recommended. Some religious sites may require modest dress to enter: No shorts or short skirts, knees must be covered by long pants or a long skirt. No sleeveless tops, shoulders must be covered and a shawl or scarf is frequently not accepted as a cover. Vietnam Average Temperatures: Fahrenheit | Celsius |
| About Drones |
| Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAV) or "drone" technology has quickly become affordable and is increasingly popular with recreational users. While some countries have clear, established drone laws, others do not, or existing regulations are undergoing review and change. Travelers who wish to bring a drone on their trip are responsible to research and abide by the laws and regulations of the countries they are visiting, as well as to check with their airline(s) regarding their rules for transporting drones. Please note that tours are unable to extend the length of scheduled visits and stops to accommodate use of drones. |
| Book & Film Recommendations |
| Many of our guests enjoy reading about their destination - either in advance of their trip or while traveling - as a way of adding context to their visit. Whether reading a traditional guide book, learning about the history and culture, or simply enjoying a fictional novel set in the destination, a good book can add greatly to your experience. Similarly, a good movie set in your destination helps set the mood before you travel. We asked our Tour Managers and staff to recommend books and films which past guests may have enjoyed. The following does not constitute an endorsement of any authors, books or films listed, it is merely a collection of guests' recommendations. |
| VIETNAM: Books Destination Saigon by Walter Mason Fields of Fire by James H. Webb When Heaven and Earth Changed Places: A Vietnamese Woman's Journey from War to Peace by Le Ly Hayslip & Jay Wurts The Unwanted: A Memoir by Kien Nguyen Dumb Luck by Vu Trong Phung; Translated by Peter Zinoman & Nguyen Nguyet Cam VIETNAM: Films Indochine (1992) Three Seasons (1999) |
| Preparing for Your Trip |
| Seat Assignments |
| As a courtesy service, complimentary airline seat assignments are requested on your behalf and, when available, are displayed in order of Passenger #1, #2 and so on. Assignments reflect the best available seats at the time of booking. Some airlines and/or fare types do not allow for pre-seating and require this be done at airport check-in only; in which case the display shows “N/A”. Seats are subject to change by your airline(s) including, for example, when there is a schedule change or equipment change after your initial booking; this may cause seat assignments to be changed or even cancelled. Some airlines offer preferred seating for an additional fee; these seats may only be purchased directly from the airline. You will need your family name and the 6-digit airline “Record Locator” which is displayed with the flight details on your reservation. In the event that you change seat assignments directly with your airline, changes will not be reflected on your invoice or documents. At the time that Gate 1 travel documents are issued, the currently assigned seats will be listed based on the assignments stored in your airline reservation at that time. Should you have questions regarding your assignments, please write to us at www.gate1travel.com/contactus. |
| Luggage & Packing |
| Checked bags are typically limited to a total dimension of 62 inches by adding length + width + height (example: 26"+26"+10" = 62"), and a maximum weight of 50 lbs (23kg). Smart Bags with a USB charging port, GPS tracking device and other high-tech features are prohibited as checked or carry-on baggage unless the bag is made with removable batteries and the batteries are removed and stored separately. Many airlines charge for checked bags including flights which begin and end within the USA. The most inexpensive airfare options commonly known as Basic Economy airfares do not include any checked bags nor seat assignments before the day of departure. However, for some airlines, other airfare categories also do not include checked baggage. This will be clearly displayed in our airfare selection and on your invoice. Where available, we highly recommend selecting airfares which include at least 1 piece of checked baggage. Gate 1 Travel is not responsible for checked bag fees, excess luggage or weight charges levied by an airline. Checked baggage allowances displayed on reservation details and invoices reflect the applicable allowance at the time of booking but are subject to change by your airline(s). For your airline's requirements and fees, visit www.gate1travel.com/baggagefees.aspx. For important baggage information, visit www.gate1travel.com/luggage.aspx. Avoid placing valuables in your checked luggage. Federal law forbids the carriage of hazardous materials aboard the aircraft in your luggage, your carry-on or on your person. A violation can result in five years' imprisonment and penalties of $250,000 or more (49 U.S.C. 5124). Hazardous materials include explosives, compressed gases, flammable liquids and solids, oxidizers, poisons, corrosives and radioactive materials. Examples: Paints, lighter fluid, fireworks, tear gases, oxygen bottles, and radio-pharmaceuticals. There are special exceptions for small quantities (up to 70 ounces total) of medicinal and toilet articles carried in your luggage and certain smoking materials carried on your person. Check the Transportation and Safety Administration (TSA) website www.tsa.gov to find out the current list of acceptable items you may bring on a plane before packing. We recommend that you use brightly colored luggage tags, straps or other identifiers to help you locate your luggage upon arrival or to describe it in the event that it is lost. |
| Intra-Flights |
| All intra-flights included in your package are booked in Economy Class. Checked bags are typically limited to a total dimension of 62 inches (157 cm) by adding length + width + height (example: 26"+26"+10" = 62" / 66cm+66cm+25cm = 157cm), and a maximum weight of 50 lbs (23 kg). Exceptions are listed below and may differ from international flight luggage limits. More detailed baggage restrictions for your airline can be found at www.gate1travel.com/baggagefees.aspx. |
| Vietnam - Intra-Vietnam flights have a weight restriction for luggage of 44 lbs. per piece of luggage with a limit of one piece of checked luggage per person. This differs from international flight luggage limits and should be taken into account when preparing for your trip. |
| Day of Departure |
| Flight Services |
| What to do if You Need Assistance |
Whether you purchased your airfare from Gate 1 Travel or from the airline directly, please bear in mind that Gate 1 Travel does not own nor operate the airline(s), nor the airport facilities where they operate. At times, flying can be a frustrating experience, especially when things do not go exactly as planned, and airline explanations can be confusing or even misleading. Should you face a problem, remain calm and seek assistance either from the airline directly or from Gate 1. Please be aware that in most cases, on the day of your flight(s), airlines pass responsibility for your reservation to their staff at the airport and it is not always possible for Gate 1 Travel to intervene on your behalf, either through our reservations system or directly with your airline. |
| Arrival & Departure |
| Arrival Procedures |
| Upon arrival, please complete immigration formalities if necessary and claim your luggage. If your program includes airport arrival transfers, check your voucher for specific instructions, as they vary with every destination. In most cases, you will be met after collecting your luggage or passing through Customs by the local representative who will be holding a Gate 1 Travel sign and/or a sign with your name on it. In some instances you will be instructed to walk a short distance to a transportation counter. The company's name and location will be printed on your voucher. If for any reason you do not connect with the Gate 1 transfer personnel, go to the Tourist Information Desk and ask them to page the Gate 1 Travel representative or phone the number on your voucher. If you are delayed due to lost luggage, phone the number on the voucher or have a companion exit the Customs Area to advise the transfer representative. Be wary of airport scammers who offer unwanted assistance. If you are arriving without a pre-arranged transfer, we strongly recommend going to the Tourist Information Desk to ask for a licensed taxi or transfer service. You may be asked to pay for the transfer at the desk prior to the trip, this will ensure you are not charged extra during the trip. |
| What To Do When Your Flight Is Delayed |
| Airlines do not share flight manifest information. Therefore, the only way we may learn of a delay or schedule change while you are traveling is from you, the traveler. The sooner you are able to contact one of our offices, the better we can respond. Please refer to the Emergency Assistance instructions on this same document. Gate 1 Travel is only able to guarantee pre-reserved arrival transfers for up to one hour from the scheduled time, no matter the cause. In case you are delayed for any reason, and are unable to follow the instructions on your voucher, please make independent transfer arrangements and retain your receipts. Unused tour services, including transfers and hotel nights are not refundable. Upon you return home you will need to contact your airline and/or insurance carrier to investigate the possibility of reimbursement for any unused tour services. |
| Departure Procedures |
| If your program includes departure transfers, instructions will be stated on your voucher or provided locally. |
| Transfers |
| Due to local traffic and other extenuating circumstances, we ask that you allow 30 minutes from your scheduled transfer time for our representative to arrive. This includes hotel, airport and cruise transfers. Such possible delays are taken into consideration in scheduling transfers and you should therefore have no concerns about arriving late for your tour, flight or cruise. For transfers from a hotel, let the hotel reception desk or concierge know that you are waiting for a transfer. In the case of a missed transfer, reimbursement for your out-of-pocket expenses will be considered provided you obtain a written statement from the hotel's front desk verifying the length of time you waited, and the time you left the hotel, and a receipt for your transportation with time and date. The cost of a transfer is more expensive than hiring a taxi, as a Gate 1 transfer necessarily includes round trip service, or 'dead-leg'. Often the places of call (airports, seaports, hotels) demand entrance and parking fees, where drivers may have to wait for up to an hour. Passengers comfortable hiring a taxi on their own and do not require assistance will save money. |
| About Your Accommodations |
| Hotels |
| Gate 1 Travel has carefully selected each hotel based on overall quality, location, price, service, and cleanliness. All rooms are standard twin-bedded (two single beds) rooms with private facilities. Special requests such as bed types, smoking preference and connecting rooms are subject to availability. Room selection in all cases, unless otherwise reserved, is strictly at the discretion of the hotel's management on a run-of-house basis. Triple rooms consist of standard twin beds or one double bed plus a sofa/folding bed or cot for third person except in the U.S. and Canada, where triple rooms often consist of two double/queen beds for three persons; where available, a fee may be charged by the hotel for the addition of a cot/rollaway. The number of persons accommodated does not dictate the room size. While air conditioning is available in most hotels, we recommend checking the room amenities listed under the "Featured Hotels" tab of your package to confirm. Please note that many international hotels were built before central air conditioning was introduced. In those that do offer air conditioning, usage may be restricted, often due to government regulations aimed at promoting energy conservation. It's typical for air conditioning to be used only during the summer months, to follow a set schedule (sometimes turned off at night), and to operate at lower settings than what many Americans are accustomed to. Some lodges and accommodations in remote regions may not have all of the amenities, such as hairdryer, alarm clock and room service, that you might find in a larger hotel located in a city center. |
| Hotel Check-in/ Check-out |
| Hotel check-in time is generally not before 4:00 p.m. and check-out time is prior to noon. If you will be arriving early in the day or departing in the evening, hotels will usually allow you to store your luggage in their luggage room. Ask at the front desk if the hotel can check you in earlier, or let you stay later. |
| At Your Destination |
| Eco & Sustainable Tourism |
| We support global efforts to create a more eco-friendly world, intolerant of any forms of cruelty, abuse and intentional environmental destruction. To that end we ask that our clients maintain a watchful eye as they travel, and report any abuses they may encounter. One of the many benefits of tourism is the shared cultural knowledge and ultimate elimination of negative behavior through education. We rely on your good feedback to enable this element of symbiosis. As you travel and learn about foreign cultures, we ask first and foremost that you practice tolerance and respect for local customs. |
| Staggered Arrival & Departure |
| Many tours are offered with multiple duration options, allowing travelers to choose one or more destinations in a single trip. As a result, the number of participants on your tour may vary, as we accommodate travelers arriving and departing at different points in the itinerary. |
| About Your Sightseeing |
| To ensure a pleasant and fair experience for passengers on our escorted tours, there is a mandatory seat rotation policy on our motor coaches which will be organized by your Tour Manager. On river cruises, color-coded group splits may be used for shoreside included and Optional tours. Some buses are equipped with toilet facility, however they are strictly intended for emergency use only and often require the vehicle to stop for safety reasons before use. When travel dates coincide with religious holidays and national celebrations, some monuments and sites may be closed, sometimes without prior notice. On these occasions, escorted touring itineraries may be amended to reflect these closures. Occasionally, during holidays and certain periods, and/or due to other unforeseen circumstances including weather conditions, there may be last-minute changes, sometimes after arrival, which may affect the sequence of the tour and locations visited. National monuments and tourist sites regularly undergo renovations, which can obscure the monument's view. No tour will be canceled due to renovations, however Gate 1 will decide based on the conditions whether to amend an itinerary. To respect the privacy of all tour participants, your tour manager will not organize a group photo or collect passenger email addresses for a group list. |
| Land Only Passengers (Escorted Tours) |
| Your tour manager will contact you after your arrival at your hotel. Passengers who have not purchased arrival transfers from Gate 1 Travel should proceed directly to the hotel for check-in. The details of the hotel can be found in your documents. |
| Purchasing Tours Locally |
| On escorted tours, the guides will generally sell optional tours to passengers who have not pre-purchased them. Payment can be made by cash or credit card, unless otherwise noted below. This does not apply to Independent packages. Please see Gate 1 Terms & Conditions for more information. https://www.gate1travel.com/terms.aspx#optional |
| Independent Activities - Gate 1 itineraries may contain suggestions for activities for your leisure time; these suggestions do not constitute a recommendation nor an endorsement of any specific service provider and the decision to participate in any such activities should be made independently and with due consideration. Gate 1 is not responsible for any activities not expressly included in its programs. Caution should be exercised when selecting certain activities that may require physical strength, coordination or exertion. Particular care should be taken when considering animal rides, such as on camels, mules or horses |
| Vietnam - The Vietnamese Dong is the currency of Vietnam. It is recommended to carry cash in small denominations in local currency or in US $1 bills to make tipping and minor expenses easier. It is recommended to carry new or like new banknotes as older, torn or poor condition notes may not be accepted locally. |
| Shopping |
| Most people enjoy bringing home at least one souvenir from the countries they visit. However, some find any amount of shopping to be too much while others never find enough opportunities. We have built into our Escorted itineraries a few shopping stops at recommended spots. These stops are designed to enhance your experience by providing an opportunity to see first-hand quality locally crafted merchandise which you may not be able to find on your own. Shops are checked to ensure the quality and authenticity of the products they offer, and we limit guides from visiting other locations. In some cases, we plan these stops to provide an opportunity to use clean bathrooms and to stretch your legs. All shops want your satisfaction, and therefore in case of any misunderstanding they ask that you kindly submit your claim to us within one week of the item's receipt. Claims submitted later will be subject to each store's policies. While shopping independently, we advise you to exercise care and common sense when making any purchase. Always get a formal receipt. And remember that, just like in this country, if a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is! About Tax-Free Shopping Tax-Free Shopping allows shoppers to reclaim the VAT (Value-Added Tax) or GST (Goods and Services Tax) they have paid on their purchases in some foreign countries in accordance with restrictions and procedures as dictated by each country. Refund eligibility varies by country, but may require presenting a scanned copy of your passport at the time of purchase, a minimum amount spent, or providing original store receipts. For more details, check the respective country's online website, with the shop salesperson, with your tour manager or at www.globalblue.com for specific country regulations and airport operation hours. Please keep in mind that you must apply for VAT refund in the airport of the country the items were purchased and allow enough time prior to your flight for the application. U.S. Customs & Shipping Charges You may carry items with a fair retail value totaling $800 into the U.S. Taxes may be applied to the next $1,000 worth of merchandise. U.S. Customs determines the value of your items, often honoring a genuine sales receipt. Items which are shipped home are always subject to duty when received in the U.S. (in addition to shipping charges). Some shops may offer to include shipping and duties in the price but this typically means shipping only to the customs facility closest to you and payment only of the export duties; you would still need to collect the item and pay U.S. import duties. Please be aware that it is illegal to import products made from endangered animal species. U.S. Customs & Border Protection will seize these items, as well as most furs, coral, tortoise shell, reptile skins, feathers, plants, and items made from animal skins. |
| Vietnam - Religious carvings, fine laquerware, and textiles are the most popular items to shop for. Bargaining is widely practiced. |
| Your Safety is Very Important |
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Prior to your trip, if you are traveling overseas, we strongly recommend that you visit the website of the U.S. Department of State at www.travel.state.gov, specifically the section which addresses International Travel. You should read the tips for foreign travel and travel warnings for the country or countries that you plan to visit. It is also important that you do not allow your common sense to take a vacation while on your trip. Here are several tips which, if followed, will save much potential hardship:
If you've purchased an escorted tour program, your travel documents will include telephone numbers of local Gate 1 Travel representatives who will do their utmost to assist you in the event of an emergency. The numbers are printed on your Gate 1 Travel vouchers. Please copy the numbers. Once you relinquish the voucher, you will not have this information. Passengers traveling independently should employ the services of hotel concierges and local authorities. |
| Tourist Street Scams |
Pickpockets and thieves can destroy an otherwise wonderful holiday. Be mindful of these precautions to help avoid being scammed or robbed:
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| Local Emergency Phone Numbers |
Vietnam
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| Languages |
| Vietnam - Vietnamese is the local language. English is generally spoken in tourist areas. |
| Electricity |
| Please note: The U.S. uses 120 volts and you can purchase a converter and transformer at most hardware stores for your 120V appliances. |
| Vietnam - The voltage used is 220 volts. |
| Code of Conduct |
| Vietnam - Shaking hands is the standard greeting. Simple, modest clothing is appropriate. Footwear should be removed upon entering a Buddhist temple. Common courtesies should be observed. Avoid the topic of the American / Vietnamese conflict. |
| Meals & Dietary Requests |
| Included meals are based on the restaurant's set menu or buffet and usually represent local cuisine. Vegetarian meals are available in most locations, while vegan, protein-rich or gluten-free menus are rare. Special dietary requests, which must be selected in the passenger details section of your reservation, cannot be guaranteed. We are unable to provide meals in accordance with strict religious requirements, such as Kosher or Halal, nor can we accommodate specifically salt-free, high-protein or low-carb meals.
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| Vietnam - While it is generally safe to eat fully cooked meats and vegetables, care should be taken to avoid undercooked meat and uncooked fruits and vegetables. Because tap water is not potable, visitors should only drink bottled water or water that has been boiled and filtered. Avoid ice, as it is usually made from tap water. |
| Holidays |
| On public holidays, there may be reduced public transportation, as well as limited hours or closures of attractions, shops and restaurants. |
| Holidays - Vietnam |
Holidays 2026 Jan 1: New Year's Day Feb 18-21: Tet Holiday / Vietnamese New Year Apr 26: Hung Kings Celebration Apr 30: Vietnamese Reunification Day May 1: Labor Day Sep 2: Independence Day Oct 20: Vietnamese Women's Day Holidays 2027 Jan 1: New Year's Day Feb 5: Vietnamese New Year's Eve Feb 7-10: Tet Holiday Apr 16: Hung Kings Celebration Apr 30: Vietnamese Unification Day May 1: Labor Day Sep 2: Independence Day Oct 20: Vietnamese Women's Day |
| Suggested Tipping |
| Gratuities |
| Tipping is always at your personal discretion. For your convenience, please refer to the summary below as a guideline for recommended gratuity amounts. Gratuities may be paid in local currency or in the U.S. dollar equivalent where accepted, and we recommend keeping small bills on hand for tipping. Please note that in many destinations, tipping is considered a customary part of local compensation. While you may occasionally be approached for additional tips, you should never feel pressured to do so. If at any time you feel uncomfortable or uncertain about a situation, please speak with your Tour Manager or contact our office using the phone numbers provided in your travel documents. |
| Suggested Tipping: Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos & Malaysia |
Tour Manager: US $7 per person per day Driver: US $3 per person per day, US $2 per half day Southeast Asia River Cruise: Crew $8 per person per day; Cruise Director $8 per person per day Note: Tips for local guides, hotel porters, wait staff, and any other services listed in your itinerary are included, unless otherwise specified above. Drivers provide chauffeur services and limited assistance with luggage, and on some itineraries, you may encounter multiple drivers. |
| Know Before You Go | |
| Although most of the planning and preparation is taken care of for you, there are still a few things you should know and some details you should take care of to ensure your comfort, safety and peace of mind. Please review the following information before your departure to ensure that any surprises along the way will only be pleasant ones. |
| Getting Ready to Go |
| Passports and Visas |
| It is each traveler's responsibility to have a passport valid for at least 6 months beyond the dates of travel and a visa if required. Please check the information at www.gate1travel.com/visas.aspx for the specific country/region you are visiting for more details. IMPORTANT: Passengers who are not U.S. citizens must check with the respective consulate or a visa agency to determine what personal identification is required. Passengers who enter, leave and then re-enter the same country on their itinerary should check if they require a double-entry visa. Passport applications are available at most U.S. Post Offices, as well as at regional Passport Agencies. Passengers requiring visas, whether obtained in advance or locally upon arrival, should ensure that their passport has blank pages.
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| Traveling with Friends or Family? |
| If you are traveling with friends or family who are booked on another reservation, please make sure that we are aware. On occasion, we may operate more than one vehicle on your tour departure in which case we will ensure that guests will be assigned together. This is achieved by connecting your reservations before your departure. Once you arrive in your destination, it may not be possible to make assignment changes. To check that your reservations are linked, log into https://www.gate1travel.com/reservations with your email and password, select your reservation number, and check to see that your reservations are indicated as "Traveling With" at the top right side of the display. |
| Trip Preparation |
| A little pre-planning can make your trip go a lot smoother. Several weeks before your trip, make a list of what you will need to take with you. Make sure your personal documents (passports, visas, driver's license) are in order. Make sure also that you have enough prescription medications to last through the trip and carry them with you in case your luggage is delayed. Bring a change of clothes in your carry-on bag in the event that your luggage is delayed or lost. Lost luggage is common. We strongly urge you to consider carry-ons instead of checked bags when possible, and when checking a bag is necessary, choose a bag color and identification that stands out. We suggest that you make photocopies of passports, visas, personal ID and any other important travel documents and pack them separately from the originals. You may also make a digital copy of your passport to keep a clear picture with the important details in your cell phone or digital camera photos. If you lose the originals while traveling, you'll have copies for easier reporting and replacement. Pack a list of medications including dosage and generic names. You may consider bringing a small supply of over the counter medications for headaches and/or anti-diarrhea pills (especially when traveling outside of the USA and Western Europe). We recommend that you pack a portable alarm clock. Due to security reasons, many museums have restrictions on the size of bags that can be taken inside and backpacks, carry-on bags or large purses may not be permitted. It is recommended to bring a small shoulder bag or purse to use in these situations instead. Avoid placing valuables such as cameras in your checked luggage. Airplane pressure can cause similar pressure in your body, most notably in ears, as well as liquid tubes and bottles. Your physician can suggest medication for decongestion. We suggest that you place liquid containers into Ziploc bags to catch any leaks. |
| Travel Safety Advice: The safety of our guests is Gate 1’s #1 concern. Before making the decision to reserve your vacation, we want you to be aware of potential situations which may impact your holiday. While most of the time our programs run precisely according to plans, on rare occasion force majeure events including weather, transportation mechanical issues, or uninhabitable accommodation, civil unrest and even criminal or terrorist activities will present themselves unexpectedly and with little or no notice. Gate 1 will make the decision to cancel a tour only after receiving verifiable government issued information. We are otherwise obliged to comply with contractual airline and vendor agreements and carry out the tour until or unless we are advised otherwise. In the event of such an occurrence anytime after your date of departure, Gate 1 and the local destination ground staff, in coordination with government advisories, airlines, hotels, cruise ships and other vendors, will make decisions with regard to your safety first. We strongly recommend that tour participants review the destination country's specific information at https://travel.state.gov/content/passports/en/alertswarnings.html. |
| Travel Protection |
| Even the best-planned trips can be impacted by the unexpected. And that is why we recommend that you help protect yourself and your investment by purchasing Travel Protection for your Gate 1 trip. Travel Protection can help with medical coverage for illness or injury, trip cancellation and/or interruption, baggage loss, medical evacuation, and more. At any time before you complete Final Payment, you may choose to purchase Travel Protection. The protection plan premium is non-refundable after a 10-day review period. In addition, you must be medically able to travel at the time the premium is paid. For a summary of the plan details on coverages, benefits, limitations and exclusions, please refer to the Description of Coverage by visiting www.gate1travel.com/insurance/. Cancel for Any Reason Waiver Benefit (CFAR) is a non-insurance feature that allows you to cancel up to 72 hours before your scheduled departure for any reason not otherwise covered in the Travel Protection Plan. CFAR must be purchased at the same time as the Travel Protection Plan as well as within 21 days of the original booking date. Independent or escorted tour reservations will be eligible for a future travel credit equal to the full cost of your trip, less the cost of initial deposit, airline-assessed fees, amendment fees, and insurance premium. Sea or river cruise reservations will be eligible for a future travel credit equal to 50% of the cost of your trip, less the cost of initial trip deposit, airline-assessed fees, amendment fees, and insurance premium. All CFAR credits are valid for a period of two years from the original date of travel. CFAR Credits have no cash value and are not transferrable. Airline-assessed fees are generally $300 per person, but may be as much as fully non-refundable. Some non-refundable airline tickets may retain value, less airline-assessed fees. Your future air credit must be used to book with the same airline. Deadlines to rebook and complete travel vary by airline and may be as early as 12 months from when the tickets were originally issued (not the date of travel). For details, www.gate1travel.com/insurance/. This program does not apply to custom groups and Antarctica cruises. Residents of New York, Missouri & Minnesota may purchase this Cancel for Any Reason Waiver Benefit separate from Travel Protection. Call to speak with a reservation agent for details. This Cancel for any Reason Wavier Benefit is not insurance and is provided by Gate 1 Travel. |
| Mobile Phones |
| Mobile networks differ from country to country. We recommend you check with your provider to see if your wireless plan will work in the destination(s) you are visiting. To avoid possible roaming charges, you may want to consider purchasing an international plan. With most major phone companies, for a modest fee, you will be able to use your domestic plan's talk, text, and data allowances just like you do at home. If you can access the internet while you travel, you can also take advantage of services such as WhatsApp or Skype. |
| Making Telephone Calls from One Country to Another |
| When dialing a number from one country to another, you should proceed as follows: dial your country's Exit Code (often indicated with a “+” sign), then the destination Country Code, then the Phone Number. For most countries, the exit code is 00. Exceptions include the USA and Canada (011), Hong Kong and Cambodia (001), Australia (0011), and Russia (8 Pause 10*). For Brazil, please consult with the local telephone company. If you are dialing from a mobile phone, you can enter a “+” instead of the international Exit Code (011, 001, 0011 or 00) by pressing and holding the 0 key. For most countries in Africa, Asia, Europe, South America and South Pacific, if you are calling from a local phone to a number within the same country, you should drop both the exit and country codes and then add a leading 0 (zero). Exceptions include Spain, Italy, Hungary and Malta (no additional zero needed to dial locally). Example: To dial the following number in Germany (as listed on your voucher): +(49) 0555-555 From USA or your US cell phone: 011-49-555-555 From another country in Europe: 00-49-555-555 From a German phone within Germany: 0555-555 |
| WiFi Access |
| WiFi is available in most airports, hotels, and cruise lines, as well as on some flights, trains, and buses. There may be a fee for access and service quality and speed may vary greatly especially while on moving vehicles. Availability on cruises is also dependent upon its location while sailing through multiple countries. Please note that WiFi can be extremely slow, unreliable, and sometimes nonexistent in developing countries. |
| Staying Healthy While Traveling |
| Please consult with your healthcare provider for up-to-date requirements. You may also check the Centers for Disease Control (www.cdc.gov) and/or the World Health Organization (http://www.who.int/en/) for their recommendations. Any required inoculations must be documented by clients' healthcare provider on a valid vaccination certificate, which must be carried as proof where necessary. Individuals with heart disease, chronic illness, physical handicap, advanced pregnancy, or mental illness should not participate in these rigorous travel programs. While traveling, illnesses can sometimes be unavoidable. If a traveler arrives feeling ill or becomes sick during the tour, they will be separated from the group and directed to either a local or virtual medical facility for diagnosis. This precaution is necessary to ensure the well-being of all travelers. The traveler may only rejoin the group after receiving written clearance from an accredited medical facility confirming they are fit to continue. All costs associated with medical treatment and related expenses such as additional hotel nights or transportation not included in the original itinerary will be the responsibility of the passenger. Travel protection plans will only consider coverage with service receipts provided by legally qualified health care facilities, and in accordance with policy terms. There are several easy steps you can take to stay healthy while traveling which may help prevent contracting an illness while away from home.
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| Notice on Aircraft Cabin Insecticide Treatment - Please note that some countries may require aircraft cabin insecticide treatment for in-bound foreign flights. A list of such countries is available at:
http://www.dot.gov/office-policy/aviation-policy/aircraft-disinsection-requirements. |
| Thailand, Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia - No inoculations are required. However, some inoculations are recommended. During the months of Dec-Mar, severe air pollution, resulting from widespread forest fires and agricultural burning may cause respiratory problems for some. Please consult your physician before traveling to Thailand, Vietnam, Laos, and/or Cambodia. |
| Consideration for Tour Participants (Escorted Tours) |
For the benefit of all tour participants, we ask tour members to be considerate of their fellow travelers in the following ways:
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| Climate & Clothing |
| Vietnam - Southern Vietnam has two seasons, the wet season from May to November and the dry season from December to April. Northern regions also have two seasons with cool and damp conditions from November to April and generally hot, dry conditions from May through October. Bring appropriate clothing depending on the season during which you are traveling. Comfortable walking shoes, clothes you can layer and an all-weather jacket are recommended. Some religious sites may require modest dress to enter: No shorts or short skirts, knees must be covered by long pants or a long skirt. No sleeveless tops, shoulders must be covered and a shawl or scarf is frequently not accepted as a cover. Vietnam Average Temperatures: Fahrenheit | Celsius |
| About Drones |
| Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAV) or "drone" technology has quickly become affordable and is increasingly popular with recreational users. While some countries have clear, established drone laws, others do not, or existing regulations are undergoing review and change. Travelers who wish to bring a drone on their trip are responsible to research and abide by the laws and regulations of the countries they are visiting, as well as to check with their airline(s) regarding their rules for transporting drones. Please note that tours are unable to extend the length of scheduled visits and stops to accommodate use of drones. |
| Book & Film Recommendations |
| Many of our guests enjoy reading about their destination - either in advance of their trip or while traveling - as a way of adding context to their visit. Whether reading a traditional guide book, learning about the history and culture, or simply enjoying a fictional novel set in the destination, a good book can add greatly to your experience. Similarly, a good movie set in your destination helps set the mood before you travel. We asked our Tour Managers and staff to recommend books and films which past guests may have enjoyed. The following does not constitute an endorsement of any authors, books or films listed, it is merely a collection of guests' recommendations. |
| VIETNAM: Books Destination Saigon by Walter Mason Fields of Fire by James H. Webb When Heaven and Earth Changed Places: A Vietnamese Woman's Journey from War to Peace by Le Ly Hayslip & Jay Wurts The Unwanted: A Memoir by Kien Nguyen Dumb Luck by Vu Trong Phung; Translated by Peter Zinoman & Nguyen Nguyet Cam VIETNAM: Films Indochine (1992) Three Seasons (1999) |
| Preparing for Your Trip |
| Seat Assignments |
| As a courtesy service, complimentary airline seat assignments are requested on your behalf and, when available, are displayed in order of Passenger #1, #2 and so on. Assignments reflect the best available seats at the time of booking. Some airlines and/or fare types do not allow for pre-seating and require this be done at airport check-in only; in which case the display shows “N/A”. Seats are subject to change by your airline(s) including, for example, when there is a schedule change or equipment change after your initial booking; this may cause seat assignments to be changed or even cancelled. Some airlines offer preferred seating for an additional fee; these seats may only be purchased directly from the airline. You will need your family name and the 6-digit airline “Record Locator” which is displayed with the flight details on your reservation. In the event that you change seat assignments directly with your airline, changes will not be reflected on your invoice or documents. At the time that Gate 1 travel documents are issued, the currently assigned seats will be listed based on the assignments stored in your airline reservation at that time. Should you have questions regarding your assignments, please write to us at www.gate1travel.com/contactus. |
| Luggage & Packing |
| Checked bags are typically limited to a total dimension of 62 inches by adding length + width + height (example: 26"+26"+10" = 62"), and a maximum weight of 50 lbs (23kg). Smart Bags with a USB charging port, GPS tracking device and other high-tech features are prohibited as checked or carry-on baggage unless the bag is made with removable batteries and the batteries are removed and stored separately. Many airlines charge for checked bags including flights which begin and end within the USA. The most inexpensive airfare options commonly known as Basic Economy airfares do not include any checked bags nor seat assignments before the day of departure. However, for some airlines, other airfare categories also do not include checked baggage. This will be clearly displayed in our airfare selection and on your invoice. Where available, we highly recommend selecting airfares which include at least 1 piece of checked baggage. Gate 1 Travel is not responsible for checked bag fees, excess luggage or weight charges levied by an airline. Checked baggage allowances displayed on reservation details and invoices reflect the applicable allowance at the time of booking but are subject to change by your airline(s). For your airline's requirements and fees, visit www.gate1travel.com/baggagefees.aspx. For important baggage information, visit www.gate1travel.com/luggage.aspx. Avoid placing valuables in your checked luggage. Federal law forbids the carriage of hazardous materials aboard the aircraft in your luggage, your carry-on or on your person. A violation can result in five years' imprisonment and penalties of $250,000 or more (49 U.S.C. 5124). Hazardous materials include explosives, compressed gases, flammable liquids and solids, oxidizers, poisons, corrosives and radioactive materials. Examples: Paints, lighter fluid, fireworks, tear gases, oxygen bottles, and radio-pharmaceuticals. There are special exceptions for small quantities (up to 70 ounces total) of medicinal and toilet articles carried in your luggage and certain smoking materials carried on your person. Check the Transportation and Safety Administration (TSA) website www.tsa.gov to find out the current list of acceptable items you may bring on a plane before packing. We recommend that you use brightly colored luggage tags, straps or other identifiers to help you locate your luggage upon arrival or to describe it in the event that it is lost. |
| Intra-Flights |
| All intra-flights included in your package are booked in Economy Class. Checked bags are typically limited to a total dimension of 62 inches (157 cm) by adding length + width + height (example: 26"+26"+10" = 62" / 66cm+66cm+25cm = 157cm), and a maximum weight of 50 lbs (23 kg). Exceptions are listed below and may differ from international flight luggage limits. More detailed baggage restrictions for your airline can be found at www.gate1travel.com/baggagefees.aspx. |
| Vietnam - Intra-Vietnam flights have a weight restriction for luggage of 44 lbs. per piece of luggage with a limit of one piece of checked luggage per person. This differs from international flight luggage limits and should be taken into account when preparing for your trip. |
| Day of Departure |
| Flight Services |
| What to do if You Need Assistance |
Whether you purchased your airfare from Gate 1 Travel or from the airline directly, please bear in mind that Gate 1 Travel does not own nor operate the airline(s), nor the airport facilities where they operate. At times, flying can be a frustrating experience, especially when things do not go exactly as planned, and airline explanations can be confusing or even misleading. Should you face a problem, remain calm and seek assistance either from the airline directly or from Gate 1. Please be aware that in most cases, on the day of your flight(s), airlines pass responsibility for your reservation to their staff at the airport and it is not always possible for Gate 1 Travel to intervene on your behalf, either through our reservations system or directly with your airline. |
| Arrival & Departure |
| Arrival Procedures |
| Upon arrival, please complete immigration formalities if necessary and claim your luggage. If your program includes airport arrival transfers, check your voucher for specific instructions, as they vary with every destination. In most cases, you will be met after collecting your luggage or passing through Customs by the local representative who will be holding a Gate 1 Travel sign and/or a sign with your name on it. In some instances you will be instructed to walk a short distance to a transportation counter. The company's name and location will be printed on your voucher. If for any reason you do not connect with the Gate 1 transfer personnel, go to the Tourist Information Desk and ask them to page the Gate 1 Travel representative or phone the number on your voucher. If you are delayed due to lost luggage, phone the number on the voucher or have a companion exit the Customs Area to advise the transfer representative. Be wary of airport scammers who offer unwanted assistance. If you are arriving without a pre-arranged transfer, we strongly recommend going to the Tourist Information Desk to ask for a licensed taxi or transfer service. You may be asked to pay for the transfer at the desk prior to the trip, this will ensure you are not charged extra during the trip. |
| What To Do When Your Flight Is Delayed |
| Airlines do not share flight manifest information. Therefore, the only way we may learn of a delay or schedule change while you are traveling is from you, the traveler. The sooner you are able to contact one of our offices, the better we can respond. Please refer to the Emergency Assistance instructions on this same document. Gate 1 Travel is only able to guarantee pre-reserved arrival transfers for up to one hour from the scheduled time, no matter the cause. In case you are delayed for any reason, and are unable to follow the instructions on your voucher, please make independent transfer arrangements and retain your receipts. Unused tour services, including transfers and hotel nights are not refundable. Upon you return home you will need to contact your airline and/or insurance carrier to investigate the possibility of reimbursement for any unused tour services. |
| Departure Procedures |
| If your program includes departure transfers, instructions will be stated on your voucher or provided locally. |
| Transfers |
| Due to local traffic and other extenuating circumstances, we ask that you allow 30 minutes from your scheduled transfer time for our representative to arrive. This includes hotel, airport and cruise transfers. Such possible delays are taken into consideration in scheduling transfers and you should therefore have no concerns about arriving late for your tour, flight or cruise. For transfers from a hotel, let the hotel reception desk or concierge know that you are waiting for a transfer. In the case of a missed transfer, reimbursement for your out-of-pocket expenses will be considered provided you obtain a written statement from the hotel's front desk verifying the length of time you waited, and the time you left the hotel, and a receipt for your transportation with time and date. The cost of a transfer is more expensive than hiring a taxi, as a Gate 1 transfer necessarily includes round trip service, or 'dead-leg'. Often the places of call (airports, seaports, hotels) demand entrance and parking fees, where drivers may have to wait for up to an hour. Passengers comfortable hiring a taxi on their own and do not require assistance will save money. |
| About Your Accommodations |
| Hotels |
| Gate 1 Travel has carefully selected each hotel based on overall quality, location, price, service, and cleanliness. All rooms are standard twin-bedded (two single beds) rooms with private facilities. Special requests such as bed types, smoking preference and connecting rooms are subject to availability. Room selection in all cases, unless otherwise reserved, is strictly at the discretion of the hotel's management on a run-of-house basis. Triple rooms consist of standard twin beds or one double bed plus a sofa/folding bed or cot for third person except in the U.S. and Canada, where triple rooms often consist of two double/queen beds for three persons; where available, a fee may be charged by the hotel for the addition of a cot/rollaway. The number of persons accommodated does not dictate the room size. While air conditioning is available in most hotels, we recommend checking the room amenities listed under the "Featured Hotels" tab of your package to confirm. Please note that many international hotels were built before central air conditioning was introduced. In those that do offer air conditioning, usage may be restricted, often due to government regulations aimed at promoting energy conservation. It's typical for air conditioning to be used only during the summer months, to follow a set schedule (sometimes turned off at night), and to operate at lower settings than what many Americans are accustomed to. Some lodges and accommodations in remote regions may not have all of the amenities, such as hairdryer, alarm clock and room service, that you might find in a larger hotel located in a city center. |
| Hotel Check-in/ Check-out |
| Hotel check-in time is generally not before 4:00 p.m. and check-out time is prior to noon. If you will be arriving early in the day or departing in the evening, hotels will usually allow you to store your luggage in their luggage room. Ask at the front desk if the hotel can check you in earlier, or let you stay later. |
| At Your Destination |
| Eco & Sustainable Tourism |
| We support global efforts to create a more eco-friendly world, intolerant of any forms of cruelty, abuse and intentional environmental destruction. To that end we ask that our clients maintain a watchful eye as they travel, and report any abuses they may encounter. One of the many benefits of tourism is the shared cultural knowledge and ultimate elimination of negative behavior through education. We rely on your good feedback to enable this element of symbiosis. As you travel and learn about foreign cultures, we ask first and foremost that you practice tolerance and respect for local customs. |
| Staggered Arrival & Departure |
| Many tours are offered with multiple duration options, allowing travelers to choose one or more destinations in a single trip. As a result, the number of participants on your tour may vary, as we accommodate travelers arriving and departing at different points in the itinerary. |
| About Your Sightseeing |
| To ensure a pleasant and fair experience for passengers on our escorted tours, there is a mandatory seat rotation policy on our motor coaches which will be organized by your Tour Manager. On river cruises, color-coded group splits may be used for shoreside included and Optional tours. Some buses are equipped with toilet facility, however they are strictly intended for emergency use only and often require the vehicle to stop for safety reasons before use. When travel dates coincide with religious holidays and national celebrations, some monuments and sites may be closed, sometimes without prior notice. On these occasions, escorted touring itineraries may be amended to reflect these closures. Occasionally, during holidays and certain periods, and/or due to other unforeseen circumstances including weather conditions, there may be last-minute changes, sometimes after arrival, which may affect the sequence of the tour and locations visited. National monuments and tourist sites regularly undergo renovations, which can obscure the monument's view. No tour will be canceled due to renovations, however Gate 1 will decide based on the conditions whether to amend an itinerary. To respect the privacy of all tour participants, your tour manager will not organize a group photo or collect passenger email addresses for a group list. |
| Land Only Passengers (Escorted Tours) |
| Your tour manager will contact you after your arrival at your hotel. Passengers who have not purchased arrival transfers from Gate 1 Travel should proceed directly to the hotel for check-in. The details of the hotel can be found in your documents. |
| Purchasing Tours Locally |
| On escorted tours, the guides will generally sell optional tours to passengers who have not pre-purchased them. Payment can be made by cash or credit card, unless otherwise noted below. This does not apply to Independent packages. Please see Gate 1 Terms & Conditions for more information. https://www.gate1travel.com/terms.aspx#optional |
| Independent Activities - Gate 1 itineraries may contain suggestions for activities for your leisure time; these suggestions do not constitute a recommendation nor an endorsement of any specific service provider and the decision to participate in any such activities should be made independently and with due consideration. Gate 1 is not responsible for any activities not expressly included in its programs. Caution should be exercised when selecting certain activities that may require physical strength, coordination or exertion. Particular care should be taken when considering animal rides, such as on camels, mules or horses |
| Vietnam - The Vietnamese Dong is the currency of Vietnam. It is recommended to carry cash in small denominations in local currency or in US $1 bills to make tipping and minor expenses easier. It is recommended to carry new or like new banknotes as older, torn or poor condition notes may not be accepted locally. |
| Shopping |
| Most people enjoy bringing home at least one souvenir from the countries they visit. However, some find any amount of shopping to be too much while others never find enough opportunities. We have built into our Escorted itineraries a few shopping stops at recommended spots. These stops are designed to enhance your experience by providing an opportunity to see first-hand quality locally crafted merchandise which you may not be able to find on your own. Shops are checked to ensure the quality and authenticity of the products they offer, and we limit guides from visiting other locations. In some cases, we plan these stops to provide an opportunity to use clean bathrooms and to stretch your legs. All shops want your satisfaction, and therefore in case of any misunderstanding they ask that you kindly submit your claim to us within one week of the item's receipt. Claims submitted later will be subject to each store's policies. While shopping independently, we advise you to exercise care and common sense when making any purchase. Always get a formal receipt. And remember that, just like in this country, if a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is! About Tax-Free Shopping Tax-Free Shopping allows shoppers to reclaim the VAT (Value-Added Tax) or GST (Goods and Services Tax) they have paid on their purchases in some foreign countries in accordance with restrictions and procedures as dictated by each country. Refund eligibility varies by country, but may require presenting a scanned copy of your passport at the time of purchase, a minimum amount spent, or providing original store receipts. For more details, check the respective country's online website, with the shop salesperson, with your tour manager or at www.globalblue.com for specific country regulations and airport operation hours. Please keep in mind that you must apply for VAT refund in the airport of the country the items were purchased and allow enough time prior to your flight for the application. U.S. Customs & Shipping Charges You may carry items with a fair retail value totaling $800 into the U.S. Taxes may be applied to the next $1,000 worth of merchandise. U.S. Customs determines the value of your items, often honoring a genuine sales receipt. Items which are shipped home are always subject to duty when received in the U.S. (in addition to shipping charges). Some shops may offer to include shipping and duties in the price but this typically means shipping only to the customs facility closest to you and payment only of the export duties; you would still need to collect the item and pay U.S. import duties. Please be aware that it is illegal to import products made from endangered animal species. U.S. Customs & Border Protection will seize these items, as well as most furs, coral, tortoise shell, reptile skins, feathers, plants, and items made from animal skins. |
| Vietnam - Religious carvings, fine laquerware, and textiles are the most popular items to shop for. Bargaining is widely practiced. |
| Your Safety is Very Important |
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Prior to your trip, if you are traveling overseas, we strongly recommend that you visit the website of the U.S. Department of State at www.travel.state.gov, specifically the section which addresses International Travel. You should read the tips for foreign travel and travel warnings for the country or countries that you plan to visit. It is also important that you do not allow your common sense to take a vacation while on your trip. Here are several tips which, if followed, will save much potential hardship:
If you've purchased an escorted tour program, your travel documents will include telephone numbers of local Gate 1 Travel representatives who will do their utmost to assist you in the event of an emergency. The numbers are printed on your Gate 1 Travel vouchers. Please copy the numbers. Once you relinquish the voucher, you will not have this information. Passengers traveling independently should employ the services of hotel concierges and local authorities. |
| Tourist Street Scams |
Pickpockets and thieves can destroy an otherwise wonderful holiday. Be mindful of these precautions to help avoid being scammed or robbed:
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| Local Emergency Phone Numbers |
Vietnam
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| Languages |
| Vietnam - Vietnamese is the local language. English is generally spoken in tourist areas. |
| Electricity |
| Please note: The U.S. uses 120 volts and you can purchase a converter and transformer at most hardware stores for your 120V appliances. |
| Vietnam - The voltage used is 220 volts. |
| Code of Conduct |
| Vietnam - Shaking hands is the standard greeting. Simple, modest clothing is appropriate. Footwear should be removed upon entering a Buddhist temple. Common courtesies should be observed. Avoid the topic of the American / Vietnamese conflict. |
| Meals & Dietary Requests |
| Included meals are based on the restaurant's set menu or buffet and usually represent local cuisine. Vegetarian meals are available in most locations, while vegan, protein-rich or gluten-free menus are rare. Special dietary requests, which must be selected in the passenger details section of your reservation, cannot be guaranteed. We are unable to provide meals in accordance with strict religious requirements, such as Kosher or Halal, nor can we accommodate specifically salt-free, high-protein or low-carb meals.
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| Vietnam - While it is generally safe to eat fully cooked meats and vegetables, care should be taken to avoid undercooked meat and uncooked fruits and vegetables. Because tap water is not potable, visitors should only drink bottled water or water that has been boiled and filtered. Avoid ice, as it is usually made from tap water. |
| Holidays |
| On public holidays, there may be reduced public transportation, as well as limited hours or closures of attractions, shops and restaurants. |
| Holidays - Vietnam |
Holidays 2026 Jan 1: New Year's Day Feb 18-21: Tet Holiday / Vietnamese New Year Apr 26: Hung Kings Celebration Apr 30: Vietnamese Reunification Day May 1: Labor Day Sep 2: Independence Day Oct 20: Vietnamese Women's Day Holidays 2027 Jan 1: New Year's Day Feb 5: Vietnamese New Year's Eve Feb 7-10: Tet Holiday Apr 16: Hung Kings Celebration Apr 30: Vietnamese Unification Day May 1: Labor Day Sep 2: Independence Day Oct 20: Vietnamese Women's Day |
| Suggested Tipping |
| Gratuities |
| Tipping is always at your personal discretion. For your convenience, please refer to the summary below as a guideline for recommended gratuity amounts. Gratuities may be paid in local currency or in the U.S. dollar equivalent where accepted, and we recommend keeping small bills on hand for tipping. Please note that in many destinations, tipping is considered a customary part of local compensation. While you may occasionally be approached for additional tips, you should never feel pressured to do so. If at any time you feel uncomfortable or uncertain about a situation, please speak with your Tour Manager or contact our office using the phone numbers provided in your travel documents. |
| Suggested Tipping: Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos & Malaysia |
Tour Manager: US $7 per person per day Driver: US $3 per person per day, US $2 per half day Southeast Asia River Cruise: Crew $8 per person per day; Cruise Director $8 per person per day Note: Tips for local guides, hotel porters, wait staff, and any other services listed in your itinerary are included, unless otherwise specified above. Drivers provide chauffeur services and limited assistance with luggage, and on some itineraries, you may encounter multiple drivers. |
I just got back from the Classic Vietnam Tour and it was an amazing experience. Everything was so well organized, and a big part of that was thanks to our tour manager, Tom. He was friendly, knowledgeable, and truly went out of his way to make sure everyone had a great time. He even gave us a detailed daily booklet with schedules and helpful info, which made the whole trip run so smoothly. I've been on many Gate 1 tours and have always had great tour managers, but Tom really stood out. You could feel how much he loves and takes pride in his country, and that made the experience even more special. Vietnam is absolutely worth visiting - I highly recommend adding it to your bucket list!
Ivette B.
I would like to sincerely complement our tour director, Hai, for going above and beyond to make our trip exceptionally enjoyable. Hai consistently checked on our comfort each day and ensured every detail was taken care of with professionalism, warmth, and genuine care. His dedication and attentiveness truly enhanced our travel experience and made the journey memorable. He is the best. He ranks number 1 for us from all the gate 1 tours and other tours we have taken.
Bakul G.
My trip to Vietnam has been an amazing experience. Having grown up in the 1960s, my mind draws images of Vietnam as a war-torn country, where its people live in oppressed conditions under communist ideology, a country hostile to American citizens. Then whoosh! Forward to the present & I find something very different. I see a happy, hardworking population - a mix of the old & new. The country is moving full speed into the future! I see modern high rises & big businesses in large cities. I see small traditional housing structures in old neighborhoods. Businesses, shops, & restaurants are everywhere. Then there's the history. Our tour group visits several UNESCO designated sites - temples, ancient palaces, & the beautiful Ha Long Bay. Our tour manager Tran is full of smiles. His smiling is contagious. When he smiles, then we smile back. He is funny, compassionate, caring to all, & has become a good friend to the people in our travel group. Never a dull moment! In time I will likely forget many of the places that we visited, but I will remember the funny stories that he shared with us. He is a person who has endured difficult times in his life, & he seems to "glow" with optimism for a better future for all. Vietnam is truly a "gem", a best kept secret in Southeast Asia. The country is safe for visitors & its people are welcoming. The food is good. My favorites are the fruit we sampled during our excursion to the Mekong Delta. This is an active tour, an opportunity to eat tasty food, learn about the country's history-past & present, see beautiful landscapes, & enjoy shopping. 'Would love to come back someday & see more!
Carolyn L.
Just got back from Vietnam and I want to give a BIG shout out to our tour manager Rex. He did a marvelous job guiding us to his home country and you can see his passion, enthusiasm and with added touch of humor. He went above and beyond to make sure that we have a wonderful time in Vietnam and an example of this was when we ran out of local money, he let us borrow some so we can buy all the goodies we wanted, and he also helped us out when we went over the required baggage allowance. Truly lucky for Gate1 to have such an employee and he sure is a keeper and an asset to the company. I like ALL the optional tours, but my favorite is the Halong Bay tour - love it and so beautiful and relaxing.
Elsa L.
We love our trip to Vietnam specifically the cooking class and cycle tour and food and hotels. Most of all we love Victor our tour manager... excellent. We had been to many gate 1 tours but our tour manager Victor is the best. We give him an A ++... he did his responsibility to all of us above and beyond I expect. He helped find place to buy silk products and the aprons. He researched for me and he went to the store to make sure the apron liked is available. He is kind and very knowledgeable of his country . He accompanied us to the airport and said goodbye. We felt Victor as a family member. Ge is our gate 1 family. We highly recommend him and we will come back to go to 14 days tour of Vietnam. We like to have Victor again as our tour manager.
Annabelle T.
Our tour in Vietnam was exceptional thanks to our guide, Duc. His deep knowledge of Vietnamese history, culture, and local traditions enriched every moment of the trip. Duc was organized, attentive to everyone's needs, and always willing to go the extra mile to ensure we had a memorable experience. I would happily tour with him again and highly recommend him to future travelers. Thank you for a great experience.
Gregory T.
Our trip was amazing!! Eka was a fabulous tour manager. Everything went seamlessly from my perspective. Our group of 19 connected and became close knit early in the tour which added to the enjoyment. Again, Eka went above and beyond and we were all grateful for all of the knowledge she shared about the history and life in Indonesia.
Jodi F.
I want to say how thankful I am that Dang was our tour guide. He went above and beyond to ensure there were no problems on the trip and kept us on schedule. He made himself available 24/7 to resolve any issues or concerns that a member of the group may have. He's very professional, personable, and courteous. I very much enjoyed listening to his insights on growing up in Vietnam and learning about the local culture. He also provided great restaurant recommendations. The local tour guides were also exceptional.
Anh N.
This tour was our 8th with Gate 1. We have always had great guides, great accommodation, great transportation, and generally great meals. My husband and I both agree that this tour of Vietnam has surpassed all of the others. How is it possible to exceed excellence? I wouldn't have thought it was possible, but our tour manager, Tom, did!! He is an amazing, fun guide. His knowledge, his pride of country, his concern for our safety and our enjoyment of all that Vietnam had to offer as well as his care for our group harmony somehow surpassed excellence!! He is a true asset to Gate 1. It is my hope that Gate 1 is already aware of this but, just in case, I wanted to add my two cents. Thank you, Gate 1, for providing "More of the world for less". We always felt that way, and your good ambassador, Tom, quite literally reminded us that it is Gate 1's stated mission. Amazing, but even more amazing, is that he truly made us feel the truth of it!! We're looking forward to Gate 1 trip #9 in 2026.
Karen E.
Just wrapped up a 12-day Vietnam tour with Gate 1, and I want to give a huge shout-out to our guide, KAN. His pride in his hometown, his knowledge, his education, and his love for this country made every stop unforgettable. For more than nine years with Gate 1, he's been leading groups with professionalism, patience, and heart. Managing 33 travelers is no easy task, but he handled it with calm confidence and still took the time to look out for me and support my independent style. KAN represents Vietnam the right way-with dignity, respect, and genuine care. I'm grateful for his hard work and for the sacrifices he makes being away from his family to give travelers experiences like this. If you're heading to Vietnam with Gate 1, I hope you get KAN. He made the trip special!!!!
Rock L.
Our trip was very enjoyable. We were able to experience a new culture, try new food and interact with animals all while living in top quality hotels. Our tour guide manager Boom was a great host. She is knowledgeable and keeps us safe. Thank you for providing the tours. We will remain frequent customers with Gate 1.
Kenneth L.
I cannot say enough about our group leader, Goy. Her organization, help with visas, good humor, and watchful eye for our safety and comfort in varying circumstances, in a very hot climate were consistent and greatly appreciated.
Maureen T.
Just came back from Thailand, Cambodia and Vietnam, Just wanted to say our tour guides were amazing, Steve was the one that stood out the most for me he covered our Vietnam trip and when I say he made this such a memorable experience he went above and beyond to keep us occupied with things to do and places to go when most of our pre planned events was flooded out he came through. He stuck with us till the very end. Such an amazing guy. Hope to when I do a future Gate1 trip he's the tour guide.
Jocklyen W.
I want to let you know our tour manager, Tom, truly provided exceptional services throughout our trip. His professionalism, demeanor, friendliness, and knowledge were one of the best I've experienced from tour managers. However, his actions during our emergency, during the flooding in Hue, were truly amazing. He worked throughout the night to make sure we were evacuated the next morning. He kept us informed throughout the entire emergency, and he kept us calm and assured he was in control. He made sure we were fed at the hotel and had enough water. He used all his local contacts to make sure we were cared for. All the while, he kept a smile on his face and was totally calm throughout the entire ordeal. We ended up not missing anything on our itinerary, but more importantly, we were kept safe. He was truly a hero and deserves to be employee of the year!
Robert L.
This trip was amazing overall. The quality of the accommodations, the service, the food, the tours and the value far exceeded my expectations. More importantly, I am compelled to provide feedback regarding Dang, our Tour Manager. We started off in Cambodia with a group of 7 travelers. The ease in which he moved from managing 7 travelers to 37 travelers was masterful. I never felt neglected, forgotten or unsafe. Dang was available at all hours and provided a personalized blue book with all our travel information, suggestions for free time and information regarding each area we were visiting. Adding to that was his handy-dandy little reference square to put in our lanyards that contained simple Vietnamese translations for hello, goodbye, thank you, etc. and on the flip side, he provided a quick reference to money exchange values. That's just the beginning of his thoughtfulness, generosity, kindness and availability. I've received great service from Gate 1 to date but the experience, value, positivity, professionalism, and knowledge that Dang shared willingly was above and beyond anything I've experienced. Dang should be the trainer for all tour managers. He is the epitome of what Gate 1 represents and strives to convey. Dang is the best I've ever encountered and experienced. I told him so, but I want to make sure Gate 1 understands and comprehends how he elevated this trip experience for me and each of the other travelers. Thank you, thank you, thank you Dang.
Luz T.
Thang/Victor deserves the best ratings. His level of service went beyond "above and beyond" assuring EVERYONE'S safety and enjoyment. I was impressed with his diligence and concern that everyone was taken care of enjoying themselves and always with a smile reflecting enjoyment of his job. He mentioned Gate 1 takes care of their employees and feels Gate 1 is lucky to have him. Other travelers said they've used Gate 1 multiple times and we will use Gate 1 again all because of Thang. He deserves a 10-star rating on a scale of 1-5. Thank you, Thang, for a great experience!!!
Samuel C.
We just completed our tour of Vietnam with gate one and I wanted you to know that our Tour Guide Tony was the best Tour Guide we have ever had on any of our vacations. He went above and beyond in every aspect of our trip ensure we were safe and knowledgeable about each day. He spent extra time overseeing each activity and meal. He provided additional detail in a booklet for us and posted each day the times and what to expect the next day. As a retired Human Resources Director I want you to know you have a world class tour guide in Tony! Thanks for giving him to us on our tour we were blessed!
Deborah M.
The 8 days essential trip to Vietnam from Sept 10-17, 2025 was amazing, memorable and educational. Our tour guide named Thang was very knowledgeable from the history to the current events which amazed and made us appreciate even more all the tourist spots that we went to and the country itself. He was punctual, attentive and made sure all our needs and concerns are highly met and satisfied. He went beyond and above the services that any tourist guide will do. Being under his guidance, our group formed a bond of friendships and memories that can never be taken away. He is an asset to the country of Vietnam and the agency of Gate 1. We are hoping that more tourists will be able to avail his services! He is truly a dedicated man who will bring great prestige to the agency.
Glenda T.
Our travel manager, Thang, was outstanding. Absolutely first rate. He made everything about the trip more enjoyable not only with his professionalism but his personal stories and experiences. I would absolutely do another trip specifically with him as the travel manager!
Clark C.
I thoroughly enjoyed my trip. It started with Nu in Bangkok. He was so accessible and such a great tour manager. He provided valuable information which helped us secure a driver to the floating market. He took us to a beautiful mall. He cared about our safety. We were a group of six and got along well. I just wished I could have spent more time in Bangkok with Nu. Upon arriving in Cambodia, we met Tran. Tran was quite impressive. He began by providing a booklet with our daily schedule and daily quotes which were thoughtful and meaningful. He provided factual sheets on each place we visited along with meaningful quotes. There was never any doubt about where we should be at any given time. Also the local guide in Cambodia, Sam, was kind and provided a wealth of information. When arriving in Vietnam, we were joined with 19 people for a group of 25. The group got along very well. We were like a family. Tran was such a great tour manager/leader. He was well organized and everything moved like a well oiled machine. He made sure we had what we needed. He was so accessible and was attentive to our needs. I loved so many things about Tran and loved the way he handled our group. His way of rotating the seats on the bus is the best I've seen. No confusion of where you are seated. We had interesting group discussions which were quite informative. Tran should be commended for the excellent job that he did. He got a group of 25 who didn't know each other in the beginning but really enjoyed being together and had lots of fun. I only have good things to say about Tran and he is the best tour manager that I've encountered in all of my numerous group travel. We need more Tran's. He made my trip unforgettable.
Helen S.
Please Promote Mr. Thang! He is a man of good character and integrity!! I can put all of the tour managers I've had next to him and they wouldn't come near the bar he has set, it's pretty high (with the exception of Linda, Ireland, she was amazing as well! )!! Safety was priority number one! He united the guests as family!! As a solo traveler, he made sure I was included and not left alone ( they had all bonded from Cambodia and Thailand). I joined in Vietnam. G1, you out did yourselves in this trip!! Everything associated with the trip was top notch/tier!! What stands out the most, dinner at the private home. The owner gave us some background about the house, her family, and the business. Quite impressive!! G1, I will only travel with you because as the motto goes, See More of the World for Less. On my limited budget for travel, I've been able to visit some great countries that other companies cannot match, be it the price or itinerary !! Keep up the great work!!
Mary K.
Eka was my tour manager for my Indonesia trip from May 25 to June 10, 2025. She speaks very good English and answers all questions clearly. She was very organized in giving directions and making sure the group understood them. Eka always had a smile, supportive and related well with the group. She was an outstanding tour manager. The local tour guide at Bali was very informative by sharing his life experiences with us and giving us insight into his culture. It was a pleasure to have him as a tour guide. All the hotels and meals included were very good to excellent. I especially enjoyed the warm hospitality of people who invited us to view their property and treated us with a traditional meal. I enjoyed all the sites we visited, especially learning to play a musical instrument. In place of so many temples, perhaps we can we visit schools and talk to students. Spending a little more time in the market and talking about products, ingredients for their traditional food or medicine would be better than just walking through the market. Overall, it was a wonderful trip where I learned about different religions, traditions and culture. Also, what makes it special was everyone in the Gate 1 family got along very well.
Johanna C.
Our trip was excellent! The itinerary was varied and provided opportunities to connect with local people as well as experience firsthand some cultural practices. Creating our own little art projects at the Indigo dye shop was a lot of fun. Also, the interaction with the elephants at the elephant reserve was very special. Our tour guide Catty was superb! The best tour guide ever! She was fun, informative, and extremely caring. She went out of her way to help my friend who had difficulty with some walks in creating opportunities for her to experience different sites. She also kept the desires of the group in mind and provided ways to please everyone. Her interactions with all members of the group were outstanding. We felt well cared for and happy. Kudos to her!!!
Nancy J.
Great trip. One of our best. And, I have to say that our Gate1 Co-ordinator Tony was superb. This was our 4th trip with Gate 1 (Ireland last September, South Africa, and Thailand) and without a doubt, Tony was easily the best organized of any trip leader that we have experienced. He pulled a very diverse group of travelers into a well oiled machine. It is difficult to get a group of 35 strangers to work cohesively, but he managed it with great aplomb. You need to pass on to your superiors, those that evaluate your trip leaders, how pleased we were with Tonys work. He was superb.
David C.
This was my first trip on Gate 1. I'd like to comment that the trip exceeded my expectations.. Not only was it well organized, accommodations wonderful, and tours were great-- but what made this trip most outstanding was the tour leader Tran! Tran was extremely knowledgeable about everything- history, culture, religion, daily life, etc-- His presentation was terrific-- his English was perfect, his personality was such that he made all of us feel like "family' and his great sense of humor made the trip fun! He shared with us his personal harrowing history--He was very caring about our comfort-- and when I began to feel a little tired on the bus back from Cu Chi tunnels he noticed right away and asked me if I was OK even before i realized that i was dehydrated and was about to feel ill--I couldn't go to the dinner that night but he was sure to send back soup and rice that I could digest. Tran gave additional ideas when we had some free time--recommendations about restaurants, and even invited anyone to join him to try Salt coffee which was delicious. At stops along the way he arranged in advance places for lunch and explained lunch choices so we knew what we could have. I have been on tours with private guides before-- but Tran was by far the best tour guide I ever had!
Barbara W.
We are so pleased to have Shaukani as our Tour Manager. He is such a caring, knowledgeable, highly organized and well-prepared Tour Manager, who made sure everyone in the group is comfortable and satisfied. He made sure no one is left behind, he interacted with everyone in the group, whether they are older or younger, introverted or extroverted, everyone felt the sincerity behind his actions and words. At times he could be very funny, too, which made bonding with everyone in the group easy to achieve.
Khieng L.
It was awesome! Our tour guide Atik was excellent in every way. She made sure that our hotel rooms were comfortable and everything was perfect. She tried to solve all the problems to the tiniest details. She described everything in meticulous detail and made sure we enjoyed our trip. Overall it was a nice trip with an excellent guide.
Anita K.
Just on the flight after a wonderful trip to Indonesia. Wina, our tour manager was wonderful. She was aware of every traveler's need, and went above and beyond. A true poster child for Gate1. Wina is an asset. Her passion and enthusiasm can only be matched by a few. Well done.
Geeta S.
We had the absolute pleasure of having Wina as our tour director during our incredible journey through Indonesia and Bali, and she truly made the experience unforgettable. From day one, Wina impressed us with her exceptional attention to detail-she noticed everything, even the little things, and made sure each guest felt comfortable, cared for, and included. Her kindness and warmth created a welcoming atmosphere that brought our group together like family. She was always patient and understanding, no matter what the situation, and she handled every moment with grace and professionalism. Wina's knowledge of Indonesian and Balinese culture, history, and traditions was amazing. She shared stories, insights, and local tips that added so much depth to every place we visited. Because of her, we didn't just see the sights-we truly experienced them. But what made Wina stand out the most was her fun-loving spirit. She brought so much joy and laughter to each day, making the entire trip not only smooth and enriching, but also a lot of fun! Thank you, Wina, for going above and beyond. You were the heart of this journey, and we'll always be grateful for the memories you helped create!
Irina P.
We have been on several Gate 1 escorted tours and the Tour Managers are always efficient, organized, and make our trips enjoyable. They have all been excellent and a few have been special, but even with lofty expectations of Gate 1 Tour Managers based on these experiences, Duc (our Travel Manager for our recent Vietnam tour) managed to exceed our expectations and impressed many times with his organizational skills, his friendliness and humor, his perfect level of description and narration, his concern about individual and group needs large and small, and his ability to share so many insights into his lovely country. Duc is genuine and sincere and I suspect everyone of the 30+ participants on this tour thought that they were Duk's favorite, but we like to think we were. :) I also want to add that the main tour bus was spacious and comfortable and we were relieved that all the hotels had air conditioning. Gate 1 continues to impress us and we were particularly impressed with so many aspects of the Vietnam tour and especially with Tour Manager Duc.
Dustin M.
Just to let you know the excellent service we receive from our tour manager, Vuong. He was with us from the arriving at Cambodia airport until the last day at the hotel before leaving to the airport back home. Humble, always happy, a perfect english and very good knowledge of the history of these two countries. You are lucky to have in your staff our friend Rex.
Daniel P.
Victor was the best guide we have ever had throughout our many trips. He is extremely knowledgeable, has excellent English, told us personal stories (always with humility and humor), is sincere, and seemed to care deeply that everything about our trip went well. He is incredibly organized, and I felt well prepared with what to expect, what to wear, scams to be aware of, etc. My husband and I are considering doing the northern Vietnam trekking tour with him because we enjoyed his tour so much.
Julie M.
We just recently returned from the 15 day Cambodia and Vietnamese Nam tour, it was the trip of a lifetime! The tour was well organized, transportation between destinations, hotel and airport transfers, were smooth and with time to spare, Our days were filled with fun activities, breathtaking sites, kind, humble local people and delicious local foods. Our tour manager, Thang, was the absolute best. Over his 14 years of conducting tours with Gate 1, he has vast experience to anticipate our needs, concerns, worries, and is able to allay our concerns. Temperatures in Cambodia and Vietnamese Nam were mid nineties with high humidity. Thang knew to continually remind us to constantly hydrate, and gave electrolytes to a couple of us when the heat started getting to us. Thang has so much local knowledge of Cambodia and Viet Nam, giving us brief histories, anecdotes and personal experiences that always kept informed and interested in the sites we were visiting. Each of the local guides were also excellent! Lots of local information and background of life in those villages and areas. Thang went beyond just his Gate 1 duties, and even made arrangements for activities that were outside of the Gate 1 itinerary. He is more than just an excellent tour manager, he is a genuinely nice person who cares about all whom he meets and does his best to ensure they have the most enjoyable tour possible! We hope to return to Viet Nam next year to do the more intensive Discovery tour with Thang next year! Thank you Gate 1, and thank you Thang! You both are the best!
Brian W.
This was the 6th tour that I have been on with Gate1. Our tour guide, Buffalo, was the best tour guide we have had to date. He was extremely knowledgeable about everything there is to know about Vietnam and Cambodia, whether it be history, culture, food, customs, religion etc. He was kind, patient and very thoughtful. He had complete command of the English language. His presentation was amazing, and he personalized his stories and experience which made us feel immersed in the culture. He also had a great sense of humor. He knew how to bring the group together and we truly felt like a family for 17 days. Buffalo went well beyond his duties and responsibilities as a tour guide.
Lilliana S.
The guides were very knowledgeable and passionate to inform, answer questions and make sure we were taken care of.... Sun in Phnom Penh and Jackie in Siem Reap, were extremely knowledgeable and were more than willing to share their knowledge about Cambodia's history. Jackie could very well be a university professor - his communication style, ability to dig deep into the history and culture in the field and in the museum - was amazing. In Vietnam our tour manager was also our guide. Chinh was exceptional in not only showing us, explaining and teaching us about Vietnam history and culture... he also excelled as a Tour Manager. taking care of all the details of hotels, transportation, luggage and keeping us right on schedule every day, making sure we were hydrated, providing insights on local places and culture -- from the time we arrived in Cambodia till we left Hanoi.
Rattan B.
The trip was incredible!!, thanks in large part to our Tour Manager, John, whose insights into Vietnamese culture and history added more depth to the sites on the itinerary. John's honesty and openness, along with his organization and professionalism, made the tour flow smoothly for everyone. The hotel accommodations were comfortable and well-located. The food was quality and copious. The local guides were friendly and very informative. The regular supply of bottled water was very much appreciated! Overall, just what we'd hoped for.
Jana S.
Kong was an excellent tour manager during my trip in Vietnam. I travel a lot, and he is the best that I've met so far. Kong is very efficient, knowledgeable, kind, helpful, punctual, thoughtful, friendly, funny and goes above and beyond to ensure that everyone is happy and getting the most out of the vacation. I observed his diligence as he attended to the needs of everyone on the trip. Kong treated everyone with respect, love and kindness. He made us feel like family. From his greeting on arrival to his farewell at the airport, and every moment in between, Kong epitomized excellence in his profession. We all had a good time with Kong. I hope that all of your tour managers are like Kong in their own unique way.
Janette P.
I just returned from a 17-day Gate 1 trip to Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam. I would recommend it to any traveler! The entire experience was amazing, from the accommodations, the food, the specific tours, and lots of great surprises. The best part of the trip was our Vietnam tour guide, Thang. He was the best guide I've had on any tour, with a very broad knowledge base of everything we did and saw and couldn't do enough for our 33-member group. Thank you, Thang and Gate 1, for my 3rd fabulous Gate 1 experience!
Scott F.
We have been on many Gate1 trips, and have had many tour managers, but I have to say that Victor, our Vietnam leader, was the best of all we've had. His attention to detail was beyond the pale, his pure joy at being with a bunch of people and interacting so fluidly with everyone, his obvious pride in his country, all these things and more set him apart. His energy was like a whirling dervish- whenever he simply couldn't be in two places at once, it seemed that he was - we all commented on and marveled at that, and he also jumped in all the time to help with picture taking, places to go to see or eat, and he was always available on WhatsApp to answer any and all questions, no matter the time or place. He was always hyper aware of our safety, reminding us what to watch for, how to take care of each other, and after a couple of days, he and we referred to each other as the Vietnam family. Several folks were on their first Gate1 trip, and they couldn't have had a better company representative than Victor- I am sure they will travel again with Gate1 because of this trip. Based on our experiences this trip, we will probably return to Vietnam with our own family, and will certainly get in touch with our new friend, Victor, to say hello.
Chris N.
I was so impressed with our tour director, Victor, that I had to write. He is the most thorough tour director I have ever had on any tour, any tour company. He was on top of everything all the time and knew individual details about our entire group's (33 individuals) itineraries and was able to predict, thus avoid any problems. I felt very safe that my trip would be trouble free. Victor is the epitome of what a tour director should be. He had a great sense of humor, as well!
Janet S.
My recent trip was truly exceptional. From the vibrant energy of Saigon, navigating the thrilling motorbike traffic (a memorable experience in itself!), to the serene beauty of the Mekong Delta, every moment was unforgettable. The canoe journey through the jungle was particularly breathtaking. Central Vietnam was the highlight, however. Experiencing the full moon festival and releasing lanterns on the river was magical, a truly enchanting memory. Our tour manager, Kan, deserves special mention. His dedication, knowledge, and genuine warmth significantly enhanced our trip. His thoughtful recommendations - including local restaurants and hidden gems - were invaluable. The extra effort he made, such as arranging a special meal in his hometown, demonstrated a level of commitment that's truly commendable. Gate 1 is fortunate to have such a dedicated and enthusiastic employee. This trip, my second with Gate 1, has solidified your position as my preferred travel provider. The seamless organization and exceptional service made for a truly worry-free and enriching experience. I'm already planning my next adventure with you, considering options in Portugal and Spain, or perhaps Italy and Greece. Thank you again for a wonderful journey.
Donald B.
This was our fifth trip with Gate One. Every single trip was wonderful. But our experience on this last trip was extraordinary! Our tour manager, John went above and beyond to give us an unforgettable visit to Vietnam. Not only did he provide excellent service in assisting every group member with the attention they needed, but he was also a wealth of knowledge as we traveled through the country. He created for us a brochure booklet with a bit of history of each area, along with recommendations of restaurants and other sites to visit if we had additional time or weren't taking the optional tours. He also printed up a money conversion card to keep behind our name badge to help us compute transactions when we were out and about. This was by far the best experience ever!! Thanks, Gate One!!!
Jeanne P.
This was my fifth Gate 1 trip, and I can truly say that Gate 1 is a top-notch tour company and by far the best tour manager we've had for the Vietnam portion of the tour. Our tour manager was Tran, and he was excellent. As a prestigious tour company, you are in great hands with Tran. He is passionate about his job as a manager. He had a mini booklet with all the interesting facts and information about Vietnam and on top of that we got daily print out of the activities and highlights for that particular day. This was my first time visiting Vietnam, and I had several questions, and he never fails to answer all of them in a precise manner. He is very knowledgeable about his country. He did not hesitate to get little taste of Vietnam for all to try on the bus or when we stopped for lunch or dinner on the way. I can say that I have learnt a lot about Vietnam from his knowledge, guidance and direction. He is truly instrumental in performing his duties as a tour manager. He is a valuable resource and asset to Gate 1. He has set the bar for me as a tour manager, it's going to be hard for any other tour manager to beat in the future.
Ian P.
My husband and I just finished a trip in Singapore and Malaysia with Dora as our tour manager. I truly enjoyed my entire trip with her and the rest of the group as we had the best tour manager, keeping our group in harmony. I learned so much of Malaysia, its culture, customs, traditions, the people and most especially the food and fruits of various kinds and varieties. May I say that Dora really put her heart into this job. Our group was entertained by Dora conveying us about the country aside from learning about it. She had a lot of experiences to share. We were even served coffee/tea and snacks every day during the bus ride. I really hope she gets compensated from the job that she does best. I looked forward to going back to Malaysia as I see there is a new program that your company has put out.
Marita V.
Thang was the absolute best guide in a field of usually excellent guides. He is knowledgeable, kind, friendly, helpful, caring and always looks out for his group's safety. He always gave helpful suggestions for our free time and helped us with exchanging money, shopping, and everything we could possibly need. We were very fortunate to have Thang as our tour manager and Gate 1 is lucky to have him as an employee. This was my 12th Gate 1 tour, and it certainly won't be my last. All my guides and tour managers were excellent, but Thang was the absolute BEST.
Carol B.