MEKONG RIVER CRUISE - Sunspot Tours · 2017. 8. 21. · Saigon (2 nights): 4H Golden Central Hotel...

9
This document aims to give you all the information that you require for a smooth and comfortable trip to the Mekong. Please take the time to read this dossier to familiarise yourself with all the aspects of our tour. It includes important information such as flight details, visa requirements and travel insurance. Your included meal guide: B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner DAY 1: UK to Siem Reap Depart London on your scheduled, overnight flight to Siem Reap international airport. DAY 2: Siem Reap L/D On arrival you will be met by your guide and transferred to your hotel. Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure to relax by the pool before enjoying a welcome dinner. DAY 3: Siem Reap B/L/D A full day tour of the ancient ruins in the Angkor area starts at the South Gate of Angkor Thom, famous for its series of colossal human faces carved in stone. Explore the impressive Bayon temple with its countless sculptural decorations before continuing to the famous Angkor Wat. Constructed in the 12 th century and covering an area of around 210 hectares, this architectural masterpiece contains pavilions, courtyards and large ponds reflecting the towering temple. The nearby jungle covered temple of Ta Prohm is an incredible sight with enormous fig trees and gigantic creepers growing through the structure’s stone foundations. Return to your hotel for dinner. DAY 4: Siem Reap to Mekong Cruise B/L/D This morning you will transfer to Tonlé Sap, a designated UNESCO Biosphere. Containing more fish than any other lake in the world, it is also home to an incredible variety of birds including many rare and endangered species of storks, ibises and cranes. Here you will board your cruise ship, which will be your home for the next seven nights. The French colonial style vessel oozes the elegance of the Art Nouveau period in Paris and offers unrivalled comfort and luxury on board. As the cruise begins, take the afternoon to relax as you meander through the waters. The ship will moor overnight on the lake where you will experience the stillness of the surroundings, lit by the moon and the radiance of the stars. DAY 5: Mekong Cruise B/L/D The cruise will set sail before dawn as the sun begins slowly rising above the lake. Cruising along the Mekong to Kampong Tralach, you will disembark to enjoy an ox-cart ride. Then travel by coach to Oudong, the royal capital of Cambodia from 1618 until 1866, to visit the monastery for a unique Buddhist blessing experience before returning to the ship. DAY 6: Mekong Cruise B/L/D Wake to embark on a trip to the little-known copper manufacturing village of Koh Chen where residents have been perfecting a craft handed down to them over generations. Cruising on you will enjoy dinner and moor overnight on the ship midstream near Phnom Penh. DAY 7: Mekong Cruise B/L/D Join a sobering excursion to the infamous Killing Fields and the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum today. Then after lunch on your ship, visit the opulent Royal Palace, the residence of the king, and visit the impressive Silver Pagoda. After dinner, perhaps step out for an evening walk through this fascinating capital. DAY 8: Mekong Cruise B/L/D Cruising along the main Mekong Channel’s international shipping route you can choose to take in a fruit-carving demonstration by one of the chefs on board whilst the crew complete the necessary paperwork for the border crossing. Entering Vietnam, the ship will moor for dinner and overnight. DAY 9: Mekong Cruise B/L/D Today you will transfer to a small boat to travel along the tiny tributaries that snake around Tan Chau, visiting remote islands to witness authentic rural Mekong life where local inhabitants live on houses poised on high stilts. Later, venture ashore for a wonderful rickshaw tour of Tan Chau town passing local artisan workshops and markets. Back on board your ship this afternoon, you might choose to attend a lecture on Vietnam in your ship’s lounge or relax and socialise. YOUR TOUR DOSSIER 1 Journey along one of the world’s greatest rivers, the mighty Mekong - discovering a land of forgotten temples, enigmatic cities and emerald green landscapes. Cruising in comfort through Cambodia and Vietnam, our 13 day itinerary leads you on an unforgettable voyage from the ancient beauty of Siem Reap and the legendary Angkor Wat, to the dynamic and vibrant city of Saigon. Imbued with traditions, culture and history the infectious Mekong spirit abounds with smiling locals and delicious cuisines. MEKONG RIVER CRUISE Siem Reap, Mekong Delta, Phnom Penh & Saigon

Transcript of MEKONG RIVER CRUISE - Sunspot Tours · 2017. 8. 21. · Saigon (2 nights): 4H Golden Central Hotel...

Page 1: MEKONG RIVER CRUISE - Sunspot Tours · 2017. 8. 21. · Saigon (2 nights): 4H Golden Central Hotel - 140 Ly Tu Trong, Ben Thanh Ward, District 1, Saigon. Contact number: 0084 838

This document aims to give you all the

information that you require for a smooth and

comfortable trip to the Mekong. Please take the

time to read this dossier to familiarise yourself

with all the aspects of our tour.

It includes important information such as flight

details, visa requirements and travel insurance.

Your included meal guide:

B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner

DAY 1: UK to Siem Reap

Depart London on your scheduled, overnight flight

to Siem Reap international airport.

DAY 2: Siem Reap L/D

On arrival you will be met by your guide and

transferred to your hotel. Enjoy the rest of the day

at leisure to relax by the pool before enjoying a

welcome dinner.

DAY 3: Siem Reap B/L/D

A full day tour of the ancient ruins in the Angkor area

starts at the South Gate of Angkor Thom, famous for

its series of colossal human faces carved in stone.

Explore the impressive Bayon temple with its countless

sculptural decorations before continuing to the famous

Angkor Wat. Constructed in the 12th century and

covering an area of around 210 hectares, this

architectural masterpiece contains pavilions,

courtyards and large ponds reflecting the towering

temple. The nearby jungle covered temple of Ta Prohm

is an incredible sight with enormous fig trees and

gigantic creepers growing through the structure’s

stone foundations. Return to your hotel for dinner.

DAY 4: Siem Reap to Mekong Cruise B/L/D

This morning you will transfer to Tonlé Sap, a

designated UNESCO Biosphere. Containing more

fish than any other lake in the world, it is also home

to an incredible variety of birds including many rare

and endangered species of storks, ibises and cranes.

Here you will board your cruise ship, which will be

your home for the next seven nights. The French

colonial style vessel oozes the elegance of the Art

Nouveau period in Paris and offers unrivalled comfort

and luxury on board. As the cruise begins, take the

afternoon to relax as you meander through the waters.

The ship will moor overnight on the lake where you

will experience the stillness of the surroundings, lit by

the moon and the radiance of the stars.

DAY 5: Mekong Cruise B/L/D

The cruise will set sail before dawn as the sun begins

slowly rising above the lake. Cruising along the Mekong

to Kampong Tralach, you will disembark to enjoy an

ox-cart ride. Then travel by coach to Oudong, the

royal capital of Cambodia from 1618 until 1866, to

visit the monastery for a unique Buddhist blessing

experience before returning to the ship.

DAY 6: Mekong Cruise B/L/D

Wake to embark on a trip to the little-known copper

manufacturing village of Koh Chen where residents

have been perfecting a craft handed down to them

over generations. Cruising on you will enjoy dinner

and moor overnight on the ship midstream near

Phnom Penh.

DAY 7: Mekong Cruise B/L/D

Join a sobering excursion to the infamous Killing

Fields and the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum today.

Then after lunch on your ship, visit the opulent Royal

Palace, the residence of the king, and visit the

impressive Silver Pagoda. After dinner, perhaps step

out for an evening walk through this fascinating

capital.

DAY 8: Mekong Cruise B/L/D

Cruising along the main Mekong Channel’s

international shipping route you can choose to take in

a fruit-carving demonstration by one of the chefs on

board whilst the crew complete the necessary

paperwork for the border crossing. Entering Vietnam,

the ship will moor for dinner and overnight.

DAY 9: Mekong Cruise B/L/D

Today you will transfer to a small boat to travel along

the tiny tributaries that snake around Tan Chau,

visiting remote islands to witness authentic rural

Mekong life where local inhabitants live on houses

poised on high stilts. Later, venture ashore for a

wonderful rickshaw tour of Tan Chau town passing

local artisan workshops and markets. Back on board

your ship this afternoon, you might choose to

attend a lecture on Vietnam in your ship’s lounge or

relax and socialise.

YOUR TOUR DOSSIER

1

Journey along one of the world’s greatest rivers, the mighty Mekong - discovering a land of forgotten

temples, enigmatic cities and emerald green landscapes. Cruising in comfort through Cambodia and

Vietnam, our 13 day itinerary leads you on an unforgettable voyage from the ancient beauty of Siem Reap

and the legendary Angkor Wat, to the dynamic and vibrant city of Saigon. Imbued with traditions, culture

and history the infectious Mekong spirit abounds with smiling locals and delicious cuisines.

MEKONG RIVER CRUISE Siem Reap, Mekong Delta, Phnom Penh & Saigon

Page 2: MEKONG RIVER CRUISE - Sunspot Tours · 2017. 8. 21. · Saigon (2 nights): 4H Golden Central Hotel - 140 Ly Tu Trong, Ben Thanh Ward, District 1, Saigon. Contact number: 0084 838

YOUR TOUR DOSSIER

Meals

Breakfast is always western style and served in the hotel each morning. Lunch and dinner where stated will be taken in local Vietnamese restaurants.

During your cruise breakfast, lunch and dinner will be taken in the restaurant on board the ship and complimentary local spirits, beer and soft drinks are

also included (Not included on the land portion).

2

On your arrival

On your arrival in Siem Reap you will be met by a

representative from our local agent holding a sign

displaying: “Sunspot”.

The Sunspot/Vietnam representative will show you to

your transfer vehicle.

Your guide will be able to answer any queries.

However, if you need to contact your agent during

your land stay the details are:

Lac Viet Travel (LV) Head Office, Hanoi

Floor 18, VTC Online Building,

No 18, Tam Trinh Str,

Hai Ba Trung District,

Hanoi, Vietnam

Telephone : 0084 439 413 748

Emergency contact information

Please find the emergency contact details

for LV Travel head office, Hanoi

Contact Telephone number

Jenny Tinh Mobile: 0084 987 206 908

Ms Ly Office: 0084 439 413 750

Mobile: 0084 989 200 119

Please find below the emergency contact details

for APT, should you need assistance during your

cruise

Vietnam 0084 96 320 9196

Cambodia 0085 51 722 2696

DAY 10: Mekong Cruise B/L/D

This morning’s excursion is to the charming colonial

town of Sa Dec for a guided sightseeing tour.

Famous for its beautiful flower gardens, the small,

sleepy town is truly a hidden gem in the Mekong

Delta. Passing authentic markets and examples of

colonial architecture you will return to your ship in

time for lunch. This afternoon, the cruise will arrive in

the atmospheric town of Cai Be where you will start

your tour at the busy, vivid, floating market where

around 500 boats filled with fruits and vegetables

are brought by locals to trade along the network of

rivers. After discovering the nearby canals, lush

landscapes and rustic life along the river, you will go

ashore to see the French Gothic Cathedral and visit

a local rice paper manufacturer. This evening, head

back to the ship for a tranquil night cruise towards

My Tho. Celebrate the end of the Mekong cruise

with a farewell dinner on board before spending

your last evening on the waters.

DAY 11: Mekong Cruise & Saigon B/D

Arriving into My Tho this morning on the upper

Mekong River, the crew will bid you farewell as your

Mekong cruise comes to a close. Here your land

transport will transfer you to your hotel in Saigon.

DAY 12: Saigon B/L/D

This morning travel to the underground village of

Cu Chi and discover the incredible and complex

underground network of tunnels, stretching for 200

kilometres, where the Viet Cong lived and fought

during the war. On the return journey you will pass

through rural farming communities before arriving

back into Saigon where a half day tour of the city

will commence, visiting all the major sights including

the Cathedral, Reunification Palace and the lively

Ben Thanh market. Dinner will be served in a local

restaurant where you can enjoy your last evening

with the group.

DAY 13: Saigon to the UK or Extension B

Today is left at leisure before your evening flight

back to London or continue on to your chosen

extension.

Mekong Cruise Information

The ship used on the Magnificent Mekong Cruise is the RV La Marguerite

(operated by Travelmarvel by APT), which is of a 4H standard. All cabins

have an en suite bathroom, air-conditioning and a safety deposit box.

There are 4 decks on the ship: a Lower Deck, Main Deck, Upper Deck

and Sun Deck. The ship has Wi-Fi in selected areas, however please note

that in remote locations the connection may temporarily drop out. Lunch,

Breakfast and Dinner will be taken in the Mekong Restaurant on board the

ship. Drinks included whilst on board are local beer and soft drinks, house

branded spirits, bottled water and tea and coffee. Local wine is also

served during dinner. Other spirits, liquors, wines and coffees are available

at a supplement. Other facilities available on board the ship are as follows:

gym, spa, sun deck, swimming pool and a gift shop.

Your Hotels

Siem Reap (2 nights): 4H Tara Angkor - Charles De Gaulle, Siem Reap,

Cambodia. Contact number: 00855 63 966 661

Saigon (2 nights): 4H Golden Central Hotel - 140 Ly Tu Trong, Ben

Thanh Ward, District 1, Saigon. Contact number: 0084 838 270 666

All accommodation is 4H and features an en suite bathroom, air-conditioning/heating, TV and coffee making facilities. Sunspot has visited and

inspected all of the hotels to ensure that they meet the high standards of service which we require for our clients. If the hotels detailed are not available,

alternatives will be used of a similar standard. Please note: the hotels listed are provided for guidance only and final confirmation of your

accommodation will be sent in a document, along with your final flight information, approximately 10 days before you travel.

Page 3: MEKONG RIVER CRUISE - Sunspot Tours · 2017. 8. 21. · Saigon (2 nights): 4H Golden Central Hotel - 140 Ly Tu Trong, Ben Thanh Ward, District 1, Saigon. Contact number: 0084 838

YOUR TOUR DOSSIER

Visas

Until 30th June 2018 a visa is not required for

stays up to 15 days. From the 1st July 2018 and

for longer stays a visa is required for entry into

Vietnam. We work closely with The Travel Visa

Company who will be able to arrange your visa

for you on your behalf. Please call them on 01270

250 590 and quote “Sunspot”. The cost of the

visa is £98.50. The visas take around 10 working

days to issue and are only valid for 3 months from

the date of entry. We therefore recommend that

you apply for your visa 8 weeks before travel,

however please be aware that your passport will

be required for the application so make sure that

you will not need it during this time. Alternatively

you can visit the Embassy of Vietnam in London:

12-14 Victoria Road, London,

W8 5RD. If you have booked the Temples of

Cambodia extension following your tour, you will

need to purchase a visa for Cambodia costing

USD $30 on arrival at the airport in Siem Reap.

Please note that you will be required to bring a

passport photo with you as well as USD $30

cash in order to apply for your visa on arrival in

Cambodia.

Insurance

We strongly recommend that you and all

members of your party are suitably insured as

soon as you book your holiday. It is a condition of

booking that you must have suitable travel

insurance. It is important that you purchase travel

insurance that suitably covers your participation in

whatever activities you may undertake at the time

that you make your booking. To assist you with

this, we have arranged travel insurance in

partnership with Holiday Extras. To arrange your

travel insurance with Holiday Extras, please call

0800 781 4237 and quote ‘WK830’ for

preferential rates. Please ensure you provide us

with the name of your insurer, policy number and

their 24 hour emergency contact number as soon

as possible. Sunspot will not be liable for any

costs incurred by you due to your failure to take

out suitable travel insurance from the date of

booking.

Health and Vaccinations

It is your responsibility to check any health &

vaccination requirements applicable to your

booked arrangements. We can only provide

general information about this. Health and

hygiene facilities and disease risks vary from

country to country. You should take health advice

about your own needs as early as possible and in

good time before your departure. Sources of

information include; www.fco.gov.uk,

www.travelhealthpro.org.uk, www.hpa. org.uk,

your General Practitioner or a specialist clinic.

Physical Accessibility

This tour is accessible to most people with an

average level of fitness and normal mobility.

It involves full days of sightseeing, often on foot,

and includes some climbing of stairs and getting

on and off coaches and boats. This tour is not

suitable for anyone with walking difficulties.

Group Size

The maximum number of passengers on your

cruise will be 92 passengers. If in the unlikely

event the tour does not go ahead then you may

be asked to change to a different date. A full

refund will be made available to you should this

alternative not be suitable.

Tour Guides

This is a fully escorted tour with a dedicated tour

director throughout as well as local guides

ensuring that you have first-hand knowledge

throughout.

Tipping

All tipping has been included during your stay on

the cruise, however tips are not included during

your land stay. It is customary to tip both your

driver and guide approximately £2.00 ($3.00) per

person per day in total. This will be collected at

the end of each destination visited for your

convenience. Tips are accepted in the local

currency, US dollars and British pounds.

Currency Exchange

The currency in Vietnam is the Vietnamese Dong,

known as VND. You can exchange your currency

in Vietnam, however US Dollars are widely

accepted in Vietnam should you wish to keep an

alternative currency on you.

Personal Expenses

You will need to take some extra money with you

to cover any lunches and dinners where these are

not mentioned on your itinerary and personal

purchases, such as souvenirs, laundry and extra

drinks and snacks. Approximately £200-£400 per

person will be sufficient for the duration of the tour.

Credit card information

As normal practice you will be asked for your

credit card details on check-in at the hotel in

order to cover any extras incurred during your

stay. If you do not have a credit card you may be

asked for a cash deposit. American Express,

Diners Club, MasterCard and Visa are widely

accepted in hotels.

Itinerary Changes

The order of events and sightseeing may vary

according to local conditions or for operational

purposes. The schedules of the domestic airlines

in country are subject to frequent changes. For

this reason, we have indicated approximate times

only. Your local guide will inform you of any

schedule changes as they are informed of them.

Some road construction and/or weather

conditions may lengthen the driving times. Our

intention is to adhere to the day-to-day itinerary

as printed; however order of events & sightseeing

may vary according to local conditions.

3

What to Pack

• Sunscreen and hat in summer

• Comfortable walking shoes

• Camera and charger

• Loo paper for public WCs

• An electric plug converter - the electricity

in Vietnam/Cambodia is 220-240 V. You will

need a 2 round pin plug or 2 flat pin plug

adapter

• Personal first aid kit containing travel pills,

rehydration powder, plasters, stomach

settlers, antiseptic creams, aspirin etc

Baggage allowance (per person): Each passenger is entitled to 30kg of hold luggage. Hand luggage: One piece not exceeding 7Kg and with maximum total

dimensions not exceeding 115 cm (56 cm x 36cm x 23 cm). Should you wish to take additional luggage you will need to pay extra at check-in.

Airport Extras

If you wish to arrange Airport car parking or accommodation at preferential rates, we recommend you book this in advance with Holiday Extras

- Tel. 0871 360 2000, quoting HX313.

Final flight details will be confirmed on your e-ticket and final documentation which will be sent to you approximately 10 days before departure.

Baggage Allowance

Your flight is to Siem Reap with Vietnam Airlines (VN), departing from London Heathrow Terminal 4.

Flight and Airport Information

Page 4: MEKONG RIVER CRUISE - Sunspot Tours · 2017. 8. 21. · Saigon (2 nights): 4H Golden Central Hotel - 140 Ly Tu Trong, Ben Thanh Ward, District 1, Saigon. Contact number: 0084 838

YOUR TOUR DOSSIER

4

<

Siem Reap•

Saigon

CoachShip

Asia

•• •

••

<

Cambodia

Vietnam

Tonlé Sap

OudongKoh Chen

Phnom Penh•

Tan Chau

Sa DecCai Be

My Tho

Cu Chi

Weather and Climate

Weather can vary quite considerably throughout the year, so please familiarise yourself with the climate charts below.

Angkor Wat

Page 5: MEKONG RIVER CRUISE - Sunspot Tours · 2017. 8. 21. · Saigon (2 nights): 4H Golden Central Hotel - 140 Ly Tu Trong, Ben Thanh Ward, District 1, Saigon. Contact number: 0084 838

Take in the sights of Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam, and the iconic Halong Bay on this

4 night extension to our Magnificent Mekong Tour.

YOUR TOUR DOSSIER

This document aims to give you all the information that you require during your add-on to Hanoi & Halong Bay.

HANOI & HALONG BAY

Temperature and ClimateYour included meal guide:

B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner

DAY 13: Saigon to Hanoi D

Transfer to the airport for your flight to Hanoi.

On arrival you will be met and transferred to your hotel

for check in. Your afternoon will be leisure, and dinner is

included in a local Vietnamese restaurant.

DAY 14: Hanoi B/L/D

A full day tour of this historic city begins with the Ho Chi

Minh Complex where the father of modern day Vietnam

declared the nation’s independence in 1945. Visit sites

including the Presidential Palace and One Pillar Pagoda,

then drive to the Temple of Literature. After lunch, visit

the Fines Art Museum before the evening highlight – a

Water Puppet Performance, a unique form of

Vietnamese art derived from the wet rice civilisation of

South East Asia.

DAY 15: Hanoi to Halong Bay Cruise B/L/D

Departing Hanoi, you will travel by road through the Red

River Delta to the stunning World Heritage Site of Halong

Bay. Here you will board your boat and set sail, cruising

amongst majestic limestone pillars scattered throughout

the emerald waters of the Gulf of Tonkin. Disembark at

Thien Canh Son Cave to explore an ethereal wonderland

of Buddhist carvings and drooping stalactites, which

hang beneath a canopy of sparkling gems. Following a

relaxing break upon Hon Co Island’s idyllic sandy beach,

witness an authentic cooking demonstration on board

your ship before tasting a mouth-watering selection of

dishes. After dinner, retire to your cabin for the evening.

DAY 16: Halong Bay B/L/D

Enjoy the rising sun’s incandescent shimmer over Halong

Bay as you unwind during your morning Tai Chi session.

Transfer to a smaller boat and enjoy a sightseeing cruise;

afterwards your day is at leisure for more sightseeing,

kayaking or swimming within the bay’s warm waters.

Later this afternoon return to your ship for dinner.

DAY 17: Halong Bay to UK Brunch/D

Following breakfast, your guide will escort you on a row-

ing boat to Vung Vieng village, a settlement completely

floating on water and dating back hundreds of years.

Enjoy brunch before disembarking your cruise ship and

travelling to Hanoi. Dinner will be at a local restaurant

where you’ll be transferred to the airport for your return

flight back to the UK.

Hotels

Hanoi (2 nights): 4H Sunway Hotel - 19 Pham Dinh

Ho Street, Hai Ba Trung District, Hanoi, Vietnam,

Contact number: 0084 4 3971 3888

Halong Bay (2 nights): Victory Cruise Boat

If the hotels listed are unavailable alternatives

will be used of a similar standard.

Tour Guides

This is a fully escorted tour extension, meaning that

you will be met on arrival by your guide who will

remain with you for the duration of your trip ensuring

that you have first-hand knowledge at all times.

Personal Expenses

You will need to take money with you to cover any

personal purchases, such as souvenirs and laundry.

If you have not yet booked this fabulous extension, there is still time to do so, please contact 0843 224 0723

Page 6: MEKONG RIVER CRUISE - Sunspot Tours · 2017. 8. 21. · Saigon (2 nights): 4H Golden Central Hotel - 140 Ly Tu Trong, Ben Thanh Ward, District 1, Saigon. Contact number: 0084 838

YOUR TOUR DOSSIER

Weather and Climate Weather can vary quite considerably throughout the year,

so please familiarise yourself with the climate chart below.

Five days, four nights in Hoi An is the perfect way to complete your tour. Relax and unwind

by the turquoise ocean waters, sample local cuisine and explore the historic Old Town.Your included meal guide:

B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner

A former port town, Hoi An is a historic town with narrow streets, riverside cafes and a

stunning nearby beach. The traditional Old Town is now a UNESCO World Heritage site

with numerous pedestrianised streets. The Hoi An beach sits close to the town,

enjoying palm fringed shores and powder white sands.

Tour Guides

Your stay in Hoi An is not escorted by a tour guide.

Hotels

Hoi An (4 nights)

Depending on your preference your Hoi An stay will take place at the 4H Le Belhamy

Hotel on Bed & Breakfast or the 5H Sunrise Premium Resort Hoi An on Half Board.

This will have been confirmed at booking.

Hotel Information

4H Le Belhamy Hotel - Hamlet 1, Dien Duong Village, Dien Ban District, Hoi An.

Tel: 0084 510 3941 888

5H Sunrise Premium Resort Hoi An - Cua Dai Beach, Hoi An. Tel: 0084 510 3937 777

DAY 13: Hanoi to Danang B

Depart Hanoi on your scheduled flight to Danang for your transfer to Hoi An

and your first night.

DAY 14-16: Hoi An B

At leisure at your choice of hotel.

DAY 17: Hoi An to London B

After your transfer to Danang depart on your scheduled flight to London.

4

If you have not yet booked this fabulous extension, there is still time to do so, please contact 0843 224 0723

HOI AN BEACH STAY

Page 7: MEKONG RIVER CRUISE - Sunspot Tours · 2017. 8. 21. · Saigon (2 nights): 4H Golden Central Hotel - 140 Ly Tu Trong, Ben Thanh Ward, District 1, Saigon. Contact number: 0084 838

Saigon (2 nights)

The dynamic city of Saigon is Vietnam’s former

capital. This busy city is the home of the Vietnam

War Remnants Museum and has a fascinating

history. With sprawling markets, winding streets

and traditional restaurants, Saigon offers a taste

of authentic Vietnam unlike any other city or the

relaxed beach resorts.

Hotel Information

Your stay will take place at the 4H Golden Central

Hotel on Bed & Breakfast.

This 4-star hotel is ideally situated in the heart of

Saigon, just minutes from the historic Ben Thanh

market and within easy reach of the many shops,

restaurants and sights. The Ho Chi Minh Museum

is just a 5 minute stroll away.

The modern accommodation features sleek

interiors, with a number of facilities, including

air-conditioning, LCD television, minibar, safe,

hairdryer, telephone and FREE Wi-Fi.

The hotel benefits from a range of guest facilities,

including a swimming pool, restaurant, bar, gym,

sauna and steam bath. It provides the ideal base

to relax and unwind after a busy day of

sight-seeing in this fascinating city.

Hotel information: 140 Ly Tu Trong, Ben Thanh

Ward, District 1, Saigon. Contact number: 0084

838 270 666.

Any alternative hotels or board basis will have

been confirmed at booking. Please speak to our

reservations department if you are unsure.

Personal Expenses

You will need to take money with you to cover

any lunches and dinners, as well as personal

purchases, such as souvenirs, laundry and drinks.

Tour Guides

Your stay in Saigon is not escorted by a tour guide

and your time will be free to explore the city at your

own pace. Transfers are included.

Please note

This extension takes place after your main tour.

Shanghai, Wuzhen, Xi’an & Beijing

YOUR TOUR DOSSIER

Extension

This document aims to give you all the information which you will require during your extension to Saigon.

Weather and Climate

Saigon, now known as Ho Chi Minh City is a fascinating place to explore. This 2 night extension is spent at your leisure and gives you the chance to explore this dynamic city.

4H Golden Central Hotel

If you have not yet booked this fabulous extension, there is still time to do so, please contact 0843 224 0723

SAIGON

Page 8: MEKONG RIVER CRUISE - Sunspot Tours · 2017. 8. 21. · Saigon (2 nights): 4H Golden Central Hotel - 140 Ly Tu Trong, Ben Thanh Ward, District 1, Saigon. Contact number: 0084 838

Experience the delights of Hoi An ancient town, sail along the Thu Bon River admiring the craft

villages & wonder at the stunning Thien Mu pagoda and Royal Tomb of Tu Duc in Hue.

YOUR TOUR DOSSIER

This document aims to give you all the information that you require during your add-on to Hoi An and Hue.

Temperature and ClimateYour included meal guide:

B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner

DAY 13: Saigon to Hoi An B/D

Transfer to the airport for your flight to Danang. On arrival

transfer to your hotel in Hoi An where the rest of your day

is at leisure.

DAY 14: Hoi An B/L/D

After breakfast, start your full day tour of Hoi An. Explore

the stunning sights of Hoi An's ancient town and

experience the bustling local market. Cross the wooden

slats of the Japanese covered bridge and take in the

Phuc Kien Assembly Hall. After lunch, transfer to the

bank of the Thu Bon River and board your river boat.

As you sail down the river, discover the amazing Hoi An

crafted villages dotted along the riverside. Visit the

Thanh Ha ceramic village and admire its intricate pottery.

Continue your journey to the Cua Dai estuary for a

spectacular view of the sun setting over the Thu Bon

River and the sea before returning back to your hotel.

DAY 15: Hoi An to Hue B/L/D

This morning transfer to Hue and on arrival enjoy lunch in

a local Vietnamese restaurant before checking into your

hotel. The rest of you day is at leisure.

DAY 16: Hue B/L/D

Enjoy a city tour visiting attractions such as the Imperial

Citadel, Flag Tower, Noon Gate and Forbidden Purple

City. Board a dragon boat for a trip on the Perfume River

before visiting Thien Mu Pagoda, Hues oldest and most

beautiful pagoda. After lunch drive to the elaborate Royal

Tomb of Tu Duc emperor, considered as one of the most

picturesque and largest works of architecture of

Nguyens Dynasty's palaces and tombs. Return back to

your hotel, where the rest of your afternoon is at leisure.

DAY 17: Hue to UK B

Transfer to the airport for your return flight back to

the UK.

Hotels

Hoi An (2 nights): 4H Essence Hoi An - 132 Hùng

Vương Str.tp. Hội An, Quảng Nam, Vietnam.

Contact number: 0084 510 3915 915

Hue (2 nights): 4H Romance Hotel - No. 16, Nguyen

Thai Hoc Str., Hue 08454, Vietnam.

Contact number: 0084 054 389 8888

If the hotels listed are unavailable alternatives

will be used of a similar standard.

Tour Guides

This is a fully escorted tour extension, meaning that

you will be met on arrival by your guide who will

remain with you for the duration of your trip ensuring

that you have first-hand knowledge at all times.

Personal Expenses

You will need to take money with you to cover any

personal purchases, such as souvenirs, laundry and

any meals not included.

If you have not yet booked this fabulous extension, there is still time to do so, please contact 0843 224 0723

HOI AN AND HUE EXTENSION

Page 9: MEKONG RIVER CRUISE - Sunspot Tours · 2017. 8. 21. · Saigon (2 nights): 4H Golden Central Hotel - 140 Ly Tu Trong, Ben Thanh Ward, District 1, Saigon. Contact number: 0084 838

YOUR TOUR DOSSIER

This document aims to give you all the information that you require during your add-on to Luang Prabang.

Temperature and ClimateYour included meal guide:

B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner

DAY 13: Saigon to Luang Prabang B/D

Transfer to the airport for your flight to Luang Prabang.

On arrival you will be met and transferred to your hotel

for check in. The rest of the day is at leisure, and dinner

is included in a local Laos Restaurant.

DAY 14: Luang Prabang B/L/D

Visit the magnificent Wat Xiengthong, Temple of the

Golden City, with its roof sweeping low to the ground, it

represents classical Laotian architecture. Embark on a

cruise upstream along the Mekong River, take in the

breath taking views of the tranquil countryside, before

reaching the mysterious Pak Ou Caves. Here find two

linked caves crammed with thousands of gold lacquered

Buddha statues of various shapes and sizes left by

pilgrims. Next, stop at the village of Ban Xanghai, where

they make the local rice wine. On arrival back into the

city, visit the Royal Palace Museum, which hosts a range

of interesting artefacts, before ascending the 329 steps

to the top of Phousi Hill. Experience the beautiful sunset

against the backdrop of the city and glowing reflection

on the Mekong River. Your tour ends after a visit to the

famous Night Market, where you can admire the

handmade textiles crafted by local and hill tribe people

surrounding Luang Prabang.

DAY 15: Luang Prabang B/L/D

Start your morning with the option to participate in the

daily morning rituals of saffron-clad monks collecting

offerings of Alms, sticky rice, from the faithful residents.

This tradition is very unique to Laos, as it is the only

Buddhist nation still preserving the procession.

After breakfast at the hotel, take a stroll around the city

to visit the Big Brother Mouse, the most famous

bookshop in Laos. The next stop is Ock Pop Tock,

meaning East Meets West, where you will learn about

the traditional weaving in Laos. After visit a local village of

Laos ethnic minority groups at Ban Ouay and Ban

Tahpene, known for their traditional handicrafts. Drive to

the beautiful Khouangsi Waterfall where you choose to

take a dip in the turquoise pools or walk along the forest

paths. En route back to Luang Prabang admire the

Kuang Si Falls Butterfly Park, one of the most popular

awe inspiring locations in Laos. On arrival in Luang

Prabang visit Wat Siphouthabath to watch the sunset.

DAY 16: Luang Prabang B/L/D

After breakfast enjoy a visit to the Elephant Village. On

arrival you will be greeted by the Camp Manager who

will provide you with a short briefing. Enjoy an elephant

ride, before taking a boat trip to the Tad Sae Waterfall

where you can swim in crystal clear waters. Lunch is

provided in the Elephant Village Restaurant. Transfer

back to your hotel, where the rest of the afternoon is at

leisure.

DAY 17: Luang Prabang to UK B

Transfer to the airport for your return flight back to

the UK.

Hotels

Luang Prabang (4 nights): 4H Villa Santi Resort -

Santi Resort Road, Ban Nadeuay, Luang Prabang

681, Laos.

Contact number: 00856 71 252 157

If the hotel listed is unavailable alternatives

will be used of a similar standard.

Tour Guides

This is a fully escorted tour extension, meaning that

you will be met on arrival by your guide who will

remain with you for the duration of your trip ensuring

that you have first-hand knowledge at all times.

Personal Expenses

You will need to take money with you to cover any

personal purchases, such as souvenirs and laundry.

Currency Exchange

The currency in Laos is the Laos Kip, known as

LAK. You can exchange your currency in Laos,

however US Dollars are widely accepted in Laos

should you wish to keep an alternative currency on

you.

Surrounded by the Mekong and Khan rivers, Laos' ancient city of Luang Prabang is rich in royalhistory, stunning views and fantastic French cuisine. Explore the tropical peninsula's backstreetsat your own pace, take a cooking workshop, elephant trek or simply unwind at one of the manyaffordable spas.

If you have not yet booked this fabulous extension, there is still time to do so, please contact 0843 224 0723

LUANG PRABANG EXTENSION