FAQs

HOW IS THE COVID-19 IMPACTING THE TRIP?

Note: We will continue to update this section with new information as we have it.

The wellbeing of our travelers, staff, and the communities we visit is our top priority. To help travelers stay safe and avoid contributing to the spread of the coronavirus, and due to travel restrictions in place around the world, we’ve suspended most of our trips through the end of April 2020—through a small number of specially adapted trips remain on offer, mainly for people traveling locally and regionally in areas where it's possible to do so responsibly.

A number of trips scheduled for September and October have also been postponed. Trips taking place later this year and in 2021 are set to proceed as planned, and we’re continuing to monitor the situation closely.

We know that many of our travelers have been looking forward to their trips for months and even years. Further, our trips are designed to have a positive impact on the individuals, communities, and the places they visit.

As long as travel can happen safely and responsibly, we’re committed to helping make these special experiences and positive impacts possible for our travelers and collaborators around the world.

To determine whether we can safely and responsibly run a trip, we’re continuing to work closely with the security and medical experts. We’re also following advisories from the Centers for Disease Control and the Vietnamese Government as they continue to be updated, working to ensure we follow evolving travel guidelines based on the information we have, we will proceed with scheduled departures to destinations where we’re confident we can operate safe, successful trips.

You can find more information on our approach and decision-making process here. As the world adapts to COVID-19.

HOW IS VAC TRAVEL ADAPTING ITS TRIP DURING THE COVID-19?

We’re working closely with an experienced team of advisors at the Vietnam National Centers for Disease Control (CDC) to rapidly adapt how we operate our trips in response to COVID-19.

Our updated operational guidelines include adjusting our on-trip health, hygiene, and emergency-response protocols; conducting expanded trip leader training; establishing new standards for vetting all accommodations, restaurants, and transportation providers; and providing travelers with more resources both before and during the trip, including 24/7 on-trip.

Our trips tend to avoid crowded places where over-tourism is an issue. We’re now focusing even more on travel experiences that are off the beaten path and away from the crowds, as well as some that are private and/or self-guided.

If you’re curious to learn more about how we’re adapting and what new trips are in the works, we invite you to get in touch with us.

WHAT HAPPENS IF YOU CANCEL MY TRIP DUE TO THE COVID-19? WILL I GET REFUND?

If we cancel your trip due to COVID-19, or for any other reason, you’ll receive a full refund of all payments made to VAC TRAVEL. You’ll also have the option of applying for your payment as a credit towards a future trip with us.

Keep in mind that flights, hotel bookings, or other travel arrangements made through third parties are subject to the cancellation terms and conditions of those providers.

We always recommend purchasing travel insurance for any trip to ensure you’re protected.

WHAT IF I GET SICK OR NEED MEDICAL HELP DURING MY TRIP?

We work with the international hospital and National rescue, a leading emergency medical assistance and evacuation provider for travelers. While their top priority is assisting in the event of an emergency, their team is available to travelers 24/7 for minor issues, as well—from helping out if you lose your luggage or passport to getting you on the phone (free of charge) with a travel-medicine specialist to make sure a sore throat or headache isn’t something more serious. They can also help arrange a visit to an approved local medical facility

HOW COULD WE BOOK THE BEST TOUR FIT MY INTEREST?

VAC Travel expertise will help you select the best tour which fit your need and budget.

Please follow these steps here.

01. If you are the first time to visit Vietnam and still struggle which destination is the best for your first visit ( including. weather, interest, transportations, food, budget, and others)

Please do not hesitate to share us as much as possible as below:

a. What is your special travel interest, needs?. Our Travel Advisor will come to you and give you the best suggestion for your dream Holiday.

b. what is your nationality?. We will advise you on the information for an entry visa to Vietnam (if any) and how to get a travel visa to Vietnam easily.

c. what is your travel plan ( date to date)?. Due to the high and low travel season in Vietnam, we will work out to give you the best tour price at the time of your traveling.

d. Another special request ( eg. travel with kids, senior traveler, disable person or any special dietary). We will give you the best advice to make your trip perfect.

VAC Travel Team will come to you with the best advice ( Free of charge) until you are happy with your trip plan.

02. If you already have a travel idea for the holiday ( travel destinations, length of trip, service standards...).

Please drop us a few words at contact@vactravel.com fill in the form that you need, and our team will response you in 12-24 hours (except the weekend and national holiday time) with the details advise, itinerary and Tour price ( if you provide us enough information of your trip).

HOW CAN I TRUST THE QUALITY OF THE TOUR?

VAC Travel has been providing all the services for each holiday, by handpicking the best guides, hotels, vehicles available. Our sales staff is there to ensure that you book the right holiday according to your needs. All our guides are well-trained and outstanding. They are passionate about their job and that’s why 98% of our clients are highly satisfied with their holiday and keep coming back for more!

And it is more important to hear the feedback from the traveler at the biggest travel communities Tripadvisor than what we say.

WHAT IF I TRAVEL WITH DISABLE TRAVELERS?

Please let us know the specific condition of the disable person in advance, then we will work with you for the best solution.

HOW SOON I RECEIVE MY TRAVEL DOCUMENT?

As soon as your booking is confirmed, deposited or full payment has been made we will email you a service voucher and Travel guide in 12 hours ( latest 24 hours). You just need to print out and relax until departure date.

DO YOUR TRIPS INCLUDE THE COST OF INTERNATIONAL FLIGHTS?

We don’t include the cost of international flights because our travelers live in many different parts of the world, and the flights they take to join our trips vary. We do, however, include any regional flights that are part of the itinerary itself. We can also refer you to a third-party air specialist if you'd like assistance booking your flights.

WHAT IF MY FLIGHT IS CANCELLED?

A. If you booked an air service by yourself or from air ticket center, Please contact with the person or the key contact to get support with the solution for the issue.

B. If you booked an air service from us, our 24-hour emergency assistance service can make all the arrangements. You will be charged for the additional transportation expenses (if any) to join your trip, less any refunds paid or payable for their original voucher. Plus, you will not get any refunds of all unused land or water travel arrangements.

VAC Travel recommends you purchase the travel insurance to recover any unexpected cases.

DO YOU OFFER PACKAGE TOUR AND HOW MUCH?

Yes, our selection of package tours offers on the website with a price label on, the tour price is very affordable, according to Peak season and Low season and the time of booking. Our group size is from 8pax to 16pax/group.

Generally, we customize every tour according to your interest. The tour prices vary depending on the chosen activities, Hotels & Accommodations services and time of booking. We are happy to send you an individual tour offer – just give us a call, send us an e-mail at contact@vactravel.com or use the contact form on the website.

WHAT IF I HAVE SPECIAL NEED?

If you have special requirement such as dietary, young children, handicapped or physical limitations.

Please let us know and we are going to work with you to ensure that we can meet your needs.

HOW CAN I CHANGE OR CANCEL THE BOOKING?

If you wish to change or cancel the booking after full payment has been made. We will try our best to accommodate any changes or cancellation fees according to each individual supplier policy. Our take is case by case.

Please contact us or your travel agent.

DO YOU ACCEPT CASH PAYMENT?

Cash payments could be made upon arrival for the final BALANCE directly to the VAC Travel via our company, tour guide or accounts staff. Cash payment is only accepted in writing and issued by the VAC Travel company. Please contact us at contact@vactravel.com for details until the final payments in CASH are accepted.

IS THERE ANY EXTRA CHARGE FROM THE ORGINAL QUOTATION?

For tours, once the services have been confirmed we will not ask for any more money unless there is an increase beyond our control.

For flights, we will inform you of the fare at the time that you enquire about the booking, but the fare is not guaranteed until the time that you issue the ticket.

We, therefore, suggest that you pay in advance so that we can issue the ticket and guarantee the cost of the flight.

CAN I BOOK AN EXTENTION OR DAY TRIP WHEN I AM IN THE COUNTRY?

Yes, our sales staff is always with you to make sure you meet your needs. As soon as we receive your requests on the phone or inquiry form, we will arrange the tour services for you. Once it’s confirmed we will email you back and ask for full payment.

WHAT SHOULD I EXPECT IF I HAVE BOOK AN AIRPORT TRANSFER?

After collecting your luggage and completing the immigration and customs procedures, you will walk through the exit gate. Take your time to look for a welcome sign with the VAC Travel logo and your name being held by one of our drivers or tour guides. Please take your time to look around and attempt to locate the VAC Travel representative.

If you do not find the Company name with the logo. please use the calling service at the airport or ask anyone help you make a call to us. we will call you and assist you to the hotel.

Please note. Please do not take the taxi at the airport before making a call to us. There are so many scam taxies at the airport - it is not safe for you before getting our advice.

WHAT SHOULD I DO IF I HAVE BOOKED AN AIRPORT TRANSFER BUT I DO NOT SEE THE DRIVER?

Please call us with the emergency number of the local operations offices listed on your itinerary or service voucher. If you don’t have a mobile or cell phone, please ask the airport staff to show you to the nearest phone booth. Our driver or tour guide always is at the airport 15 mins before your arrival.

IN CASE OF EMMERGENCY ON THE TOUR, WHO SHOULD I CONTACT?

In case of emergency on tour, your local guide is the first point of contact. VAC Travel has operations offices across the region and our emergency assistance is available 24 /7. Please see the office contact details listed on your itinerary or service voucher.

I HAVE QUESTION THAT YOU HAVEN'T ANSWERED. HOW CAN I GET HELP?

If you can't find what you're looking for here or in our general FAQ, please get in touch via email or call us at +84912130878. We are available to assist Monday through Friday from 80:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m (Vietnamese Time). We'd love to hear from you!

WHAT ARE GENERAL FOOD AND WATER PRECAUTION IN VIETNAM?

Food: The rule eats: well-Cooked food.

Generally, try to avoid fresh salads or raw vegetables as they may be washed with contaminated water

Drink: Drink bottled water, and make sure the seal is not broken.

CAN WE MAKE SPECIAL REQUEST ON FOOD?

For vegetarians/vegans, you will have no problem. Most allergies are easy to accommodate. For specific requirements, please share us in advance.

HOW ABOUT NON-SMOKING ROOMS IN HOTELS?

The non-smoking definition in most countries does not necessarily mean it is smoke-free. While most reputable five-star hotels have non-smoking rooms, some lower grade hotels consider non-smoking as simply removing the ashtray.

WHAT MEDICATION PRECAUTIONS SHOULD I TAKE BEFORE THE TOUR?

It is important to visit your travel medical doctor or specialist travel clinic several months before you travel to allow time for the accurate recommended courses of vaccinations (if necessary). This is particularly important if you suffer from any medical condition and/or are traveling with young children.

If you are having medical treatment, we suggest you bring your own drugs due to some kinds of drugs you may not find in Vietnam.

Note.

Make sure you always keep your medicines with your passport to not forget them.

ARE THERE ANY GOOD HOSPITALS IN VIETNAM AND SOUTH EAST ASIA?

Vietnam: Yes, there are international standard healthcare facilities in Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi, Danang & Hue.

Cambodia: Yes, there are international standard healthcare facilities in Phnom Penh & Siem Reap.

Thailand: Yes, there are international standard healthcare facilities in many cities. Thailand, along with Singapore, offers the best standard of healthcare in Southeast Asia.

Laos: No, there are no international standard healthcare facilities in Laos. Although there are good standard local hospitals in Luang Prabang & Vientiane.

Myanmar: No, there are no international standard healthcare facilities in Myanmar. Although there are good standard local hospitals in Yangon & Mandalay.

HOW EARLY SHOULD I BUY TRAVEL INSURANCE

You would be suggested to proceed with the insurance as soon as your itinerary is confirmed.

WHY DO I NEED TRAVEL INSURANCE?

No one could tell what is happening out there. and Travel insurance is needed, Absolutely.

Illness, an accident, or a death in the family is often a source of great contention between travelers and their travel agents for cancellation, refunds, and compensation on their travel packages. While we can’t eliminate travel risks, travel insurance can minimize and protect you against such financial loss. Travel insurance is not compulsory, although it is highly recommended to take out a travel insurance policy before your departure. This will be really helpful in case of a medical emergency evacuation. The travel insurance will cover against the hospital and medical expenses as a consequence of an accident occurring to the bearer during the period of insurance and/or unforeseen illnesses which arise during that period as well.

SHOULD I USE USD / EURO OR VIETNAMESE CURRENCY?

Vietnam, Thailand & Indonesia you have to change your currency into local currency because of local laws. In Cambodia, Laos & Myanmar, you can use USD, EURO and you will need some local currency for day-to-day small purchases like local restaurants, a bottle of water, souvenirs, etc.

ATM is available in every big city, you could get the local currency only.

Credit card is widely accepted in every big city, shops, restaurants.

HOW SHOULD I TIP?

We recommend around US$7 -10/day/traveler for guides and US$3-5/day/traveler for drivers if less than 4 people in a group, around US$5-7/day/traveler for guides and US$2-4/day/traveler for drivers if there are 5 people or more.

Hotels and restaurant staff A tipping of 5-10% of the total bill in restaurants is appreciated.

If you stay a couple of days in the same hotel, a tip to the maid service of $1-2/day is appreciated. For porters, US$1-2/time/room is acceptable.

Boat Cruise If you travel on a local basic boat such as in the Mekong Delta, Nha Trang, Hue, Hoi An etc., a suggested tip from US$5-10 per boat is appreciated – more or less depending on the group size and the trip’s duration.

For an overnight boat trip such as in Halong Bay or river cruises, the suggestion is $10 – $15 per person per night to cover all the boat crew.

HOW TO USE LOCAL MOBILE PHONE SERVICES?

Mobile phone service is available across in South East Asia, except Myanmar where the GSM network does not support the global network. Ask your guide to bring you to a local phone shop to purchase a SIM card to obtain a local number and prepaid credit. Please make sure your phone set is compatible with the local network. Coverage in rural areas.

WHAT IS THE NORMAL QUALITY OF THE VEHICLES SHOULD I EXPECT?

The standard of vehicles across Vietnam and South East Asia varies between countries.

In Thailand and Vietnam, the quality of vehicles is more modern. They offer new models equipped with air conditioning, seat belts, and comfortable seating. Luxury cars such as Mercedes, BMW or limousines are available for hire but an extra charge will be applied (if any).

In Myanmar, Cambodia, and Laos, the level of development and tourism is lower than elsewhere in the region, therefore it is necessary for you to lower your expectations of the vehicles. The models are generally older and sometimes they may not be equipped with air conditioning, especially in more remote areas. Wearing a seat belt is not common practice in these countries and be aware that not all the vehicles in which you travel will be fitted with seat belts.

CAN I RENT A MOTORBIKE OR A CAR BY MYSELF?

In general, you can rent cars and motorbikes to ride yourself as long as you have an international driver’s license. However, please remember traffic and road conditions in South East Asia may be very different to what you are used to and we DO NOT recommend this.

IN CASE OF LOST LUAGUAGE OR ACCIDENT…, SHOULD I MAKE A CLAIM?

If you already bought the travel insurance which covers the luggage lost.

Please contact your insurance company’s claims department immediately. You need to fill in a claim form and submit the following documentary evidence to support your claim: Invoices and/or estimates for property damage, loss or theft; full medical evidence and receipts for medical claims; birth and death certificates for personal accident/life insurance policies.

Again, please make sure you check the policy before purchasing travel insurance.

WHAT IS THE LIMIT OF LAGGUAGE FOR AIRLINES IN VIETNAM?

Each airline has its own luggage allowance policy. This amount varies between airlines, however, generally the limit is only 01 check-in luggage per adult with from 20 kgs or 44lbs for the economy, and 30kgs or 66lbs for business class. Excess baggage is charged at a specific rate depending on the individual route.

DO I NEED TO APPLY FOR A VISA?

Most countries in South East Asia require you to obtain a visa. Please check carefully with a travel agent regarding specific visa requirements for each country you plan to visit as the legislation does change frequently.

Thailand offers a free visa on arrival to most nationalities. Other countries, including Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia, and Myanmar offer a “visa-on-arrival” service which requires you to pay a fee at the airport, or you may prefer to obtain this in advance through the relevant embassy or a visa agent. For visa-on-arrival in Vietnam and Myanmar, you must submit some paperwork before you arrive. Please check with a travel agent. Please note there can be long queues on arrival at the immigration counters.

Please check Vietnam visa news here https://www.vietnam-immigration.org.vn/news/view/policies-of-vietnam-government-for-visa-on-arrival.html

HOW DO I GET VISA ON ARRIVAL?

If you do not want to get the visa from home yourself, please write to us at contact@vactravel.com for the visa on arrival service, we will process the visa on arrival letter for you.

Once you receive the copy of the visa on arrival authorization letter, please recheck all relevant information including the entry date and passport information.

Note down the entry date which must be exactly as per the date of your arrival flight. Remember to bring this copy along to board the plane to your destination.

On the arrival at the airport, you bring the copied visa on arrival letter with 02 photos (4x6 or passport photo) and the passport.

fill in the form and handle for the person at the immigration counter. pay 25 USD for the visa sticker fee and done.

If you do not want to line up and avoid the crowded, please write to us for the Fast Track service.