Price

$2137

Available: 7+ spaces

Secure your place on this program with a $350 lifetime deposit. Final payment is due 60 days before departure.

    Sorry, this program is full. Please provide your information below so that we can add you to our waiting list.

     







       



      • Hotels: Standard Class

      • 06/29/2025 - 07/15/2025

      • Max Participants: 16

      • 17 Days / 16 Nights

      Overview

      This 17-day program offers a combination of guided excursions and free time to explore beaches and ruins, urban culture, and awe-inspiring landscapes. Cruise the Mekong for a day. Overnight on a traditional sailing junk in Halong Bay. Witness the heights of Cambodia’s past at Angkor Wat and contemplate its lows by walking the infamous Killing Fields. Although many activities are included, there is still plenty of time to explore on your own and create the ultimate adventure. Visit Vietnam and Cambodia with us, all while earning professional development credit with other educators.

      This program is open to all educators and school administrators in Connecticut, as well as their guests who are at least 18 years old.

      What's Included:
      • Halong Bay caves entrance
      • Halong Bay boat cruise with seafood lunch and dinner
      • Imperial Citadel and Tomb entrance (Huế)
      • Noodle-making demonstration and lunch at Oodles of Noodles, a G Adventures-supported project (Hoi An)
      • Cu Chi Tunnels entrance and tour (Ho Chi Minh City)
      • Mekong Delta day trip
      • Cyclo tour (Phnom Penh)
      • Tuol Sleng and Choeung Ek (Killing Fields) entrance and guide
      • Angkor Wat complex entry and guide, including sunrise tour (Siem Reap)
      • Local Khmer dinner meal, Siem Reap
      • Border crossing support
      • Internal flight
      • G Adventures Tour Leader, local guides
      • 15 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 2 dinners – allow USD $185-240 for meals not included
      • Hotels (14 nts), sleeper train (1 nt), junk boat (1 nt)
      • All transport between destinations and to/from included activities by train, bus, plane, tuk-tuk, boat
      What's Not Included:
      • International air travel
      • Incidentals
      • Travel health and cancellation insurance
      • Applicable visas
      • Tips or gratuities
      • Airport taxes
      • Beverages
      • Meals not mentioned in itinerary
      • Optional tours and admissions
      • Airport transfers

      Itinerary Download PDF

      Day 1: Hanoi Arrive in Hanoi at any time. Meet your group for a welcome meeting around 6:00 or 7:00 p.m.

      Arrive in Hanoi at any time. The airport in Hanoi is Noi Bai International Airport (HAN). Due to the potential for flight delays or cancellations, we recommend that you plan to arrive in Hanoi at least a day in advance. This will also give you time to adjust to the time difference and overcome any jet lag. We can book extra hotel nights for you in Hanoi before the trip. If you arrive early, you might consider walking through Hanoi's Old Quarter and its maze of streets, each one traditionally devoted to a different product or industry. Alternatively, you could visit Tran Quoc Pagoda, the Temple of Literature (Van Mieu), or Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum and Museum. The Mausoleum houses the remains of Ho Chi Minh, the founding father of the unified Vietnam. Hotel Check-in and Welcome Meeting Please note that check-in at the hotel is usually around 2:00-3:00 p.m. There are no planned activities until an intro meeting around 6:00 or 7:00 p.m., usually in the hotel lobby. Check for a sign or ask at the reception desk about the exact time and location of the group meeting. Please make every effort to arrive in time for this meeting. If you are delayed and will arrive late, please inform us. Your tour leader will then leave you a message at the front desk informing you of where and when to meet up tomorrow. After the meeting, you might choose to get dinner at a nearby restaurant with your traveling companions and your tour leader to further get to know one another. Joining Instructions To get from the airport to your hotel, you can choose an airport transfer, a taxi, or Vietnam Airlines shuttle bus. The airport is 35 km outside of the city, and the drive should take between 40-50 minutes, depending on traffic. Taxi: Airport taxis are a safe and convenient way to get to your hotel. The cost is approximately $17 USD and is paid directly to your driver when you get to the hotel. Shuttle Bus: The Vietnam Airlines shuttle bus drops everyone at the Vietnam Airlines office downtown, and a ticket costs 45,000 Dong (approx. $3 USD). From the Vietnam Airline office, take a metered taxi to your hotel for about $2-4 USD. WARNING: Please be wary of illegal taxi drivers who will try to coax you away from the main airport taxi services and then charge an exorbitant price, either in U.S. Dollars or by getting you to change money into Vietnamese Dong before you understand the exchange rate and thus charge you at least twice the going rate. Pre-booked Arrival Transfer: If you have a pre-booked transfer, please look for the G Adventures representative, who will be holding a G Adventures sign at the arrival halls. Carefully check for your pickup, as there will be many people in the arrival area. Make sure that your driver knows your name and the hotel name, and if in doubt, ask them to call their manager to confirm your transfer. CAUTION: Unfortunately, there have been cases of people misrepresenting themselves as G Adventures representatives at both Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh airports. We recommend not accepting any offers of “help” at the airport and rather just organize a meter taxi for yourself to our starting point hotel. If you are experiencing complications with your AIRPORT TRANSFER, please wait up to 30 minutes then call the emergency number, or take a taxi to the starting point hotel. Emergency number: +84 88 844 9969 Accommodation: Thien Thai Hotel (or similar) * For the actual hotel your specific departure will be using, please check your voucher.

      A 3-hour drive takes us to Bai Chay harbor, our entry point to Halong Bay. Thousands of islands rise dramatically from the serene waters of Halong Bay. The massive limestone karst formations contain intricate cave systems and make for spectacular scenery. We board a traditional junk boat at Ha Long Bay harbor and cruise out among the isles. Swim, kayak, or go cave exploring on one of the islands, if conditions are right. We will also indulge in fresh seafood meals with a variety of dishes to sample before drifting to sleep in a cozy cabin on board. On rare occasions, Halong Bay is closed to tourist vessels by the government authorities due to extreme weather conditions. Should this occur, an alternate activity will be provided. Approximate travel time: 3 hrs by shared van Accommodation: Halong Private Boat (or similar) Meals included: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner

      Today, we enjoy breakfast and lunch on board the junk boat before sailing back to the port. Back at port, we hop in a private vehicle for the drive back to Hanoi for a little more free time to enjoy the city. You will have enough time for shopping or further sightseeing before we catch our overnight train to Huế. Train travel in Vietnam is very basic, and train cleanliness is often not a priority for train staff. Sleeper trains normally have 4 seats per compartment, which convert into sleeping bunks (two upper and two lower). A sheet, pillow, and blanket are provided, although many people prefer to bring their own sleeping sheet. At times, passengers of different genders may be required to share a sleeper train berth and/or share a compartment with people not traveling in your group. Simple food is available on the train, but many people like to stock up on freshly baked bread, cheese, and fruit prior to departure. Water should also be bought before the journey. Approximate travel time: 4 hrs by private vehicle (Halong Bay to Hanoi); 14 hrs by overnight sleeper train (Hanoi to Huế) Accommodation: Overnight Train Meals included: Breakfast | Lunch

      We arrive in Huế, once the imperial capital of Vietnam, in the early morning. We start the day with a tour of the Imperial Citadel, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where we will see the walled fortress and former palace, which has many gateways, courtyards, and gardens to explore. Inside the citadel, the Forbidden Purple City, modeled on China's Forbidden City, was once home to the imperial family and was significantly damaged during the Vietnam War. Next, we visit to the Tien Mu Pagoda, one of the most elegant and tallest pagodas in Vietnam at seven stories high. Built more than 400 years ago along the north shore of the Perfume River, the pagoda has been the site of many political protests. We also visit the Royal Tombs along the Perfume River in Hue. Embracing the concept of Feng Shui, these tombs are extremely ornate and provide fantastic insight into the lives of the former rulers. While in the city, try some local Hue specialties such as banh khoai (Hue savoury pancakes), and banh bot loc boc tom thit (thin rice paper filled with meat and shrimp). Accommodation: Asia Hotel (or similar)

      This morning, we depart for Hoi An. We will cross through the Hai Van Pass, weather permitting, with fantastic views all around. We arrive in Hoi An in the afternoon for a 3-night stay. Once known as Faifo, Hoi An was an important trading town with strong south Chinese influence and connections. You can take a walking tour of this living museum, which includes the Museum of History and Culture, the Tan Ky house, the Japanese bridge, the Fujian Assembly Hall, and lunch at a riverside restaurant to sample some of the local delicacies. Hoi An is also a shopping mecca for tourists in the region. Tailors can produce virtually anything overnight. Clothing, silk lanterns, lacquerware, and many other crafts abound. For sun worshipers, Cua Dai Beach, 4 km from town, makes for a great, flat bike ride. Approximate travel time: 4 hrs by private vehicle Accommodation: Uptown Hoi An Hotel (or similar) Meals included: Breakfast

      Today is the first of two full days for you to explore all that Hoi An has to offer. You can choose to immerse yourself in the culture, bike to the beach for some quality sun time, or get custom-made clothes by one of the many tailor shops around town. We get together as a group for an included cooking class and lunch, when you can try some of the oodles of noodles (more than 26 types!) available in the city. Run by a Planeterra Foundation partner, STREETS International, the class was developed exclusively for G Adventures. Former street youth that are part of this hospitality training program will help you prepare and cook a number of different types of noodles. The program helps these youth practice their English, increasing their skill set and opportunities available to them in the tourism industry. You may want to continue your culinary education in the evening and take an optional cooking class to learn even more about Vietnamese food and its distinct flavors. Tour the local market to buy fresh ingredients before preparing some popular regional dishes. You get to enjoy your creations when you're done! Accommodation: Uptown Hoi An Hotel (or similar) Meals included: Breakfast | Lunch

      Today, you spend a second free day exploring all Hoi An has to offer. You might consider a day trip visit to Mỹ Sơn. Travel approximately one hour from Hoi An to arrive at Mỹ Sơn, with its Hindu temples built between the fourth and 14th centuries. The site is widely accepted as one of the most important Hindu temple complexes in Southeast Asia. Learn about the architectural style and history of a site that’s often compared to Angkor Wat in Cambodia and Bagan in Burma. You can also opt for a boat trip on the Thu Bon River, which plays an important part in Hoi An's history and culture. Accommodation: Uptown Hoi An Hotel (or similar) Meals included: Breakfast

      This morning, we drive to Da Nang for the flight to Ho Chi Minh City, the sprawling metropolis that was once the capital of South Vietnam and remains the country’s commercial center. Start by exploring the small alleys and busy streets, keeping an eye out for laquerware shops and delicious local food stalls. Approximate travel time: 45 mins by private vehicle (Hoi An to Danang); 1 hr by plane (Da Nang to Ho Chi Minh City) Accommodation: Victory Hotel (or similar) Meals included: Breakfast

      In the morning, we drive 1.5 hours to the Cu Chi Tunnels, where we will get a guided tour of a complex network of tunnels that the Viet Cong lived in to protect themselves from opposing forces during the Vietnam War. Try crawling through some of the tunnels, if you’re not claustrophobic. These tunnels stored ammunition, contained underground hospitals, and served as a hidden base for attacking allied forces. Afterward, we drive back to Ho Chi Minh City. Enjoy free time in the afternoon, possibly to visit the Thien Hau and Giac Vien pagodas and stroll through the immense Ben Than Market. There is also the Reunification Palace, the residence of the presidents of South Vietnam before 1975. Or, you can take in the busy rhythm of daily life in Cholon ("big market"), the Chinese quarter full of teahouses and pagodas. The War Remnants Museum is a gut-wrenching but worthwhile experience that includes three stories of exhibits. Learn about the devastation that occurred in Saigon during the Vietnam War, a period that greatly contrasts with the joy and liveliness of the Vietnamese people today. Approximate travel time: 3 hrs by private vehicle Accommodation: Victory Hotel (or similar) Meals included: Breakfast

      Today, we travel to where the mighty Mekong River approaches and empties into the South China Sea. We board a small boat and navigate through the narrow canals, witnessing local lifestyle, floating vendors, and small industrial boats. You will notice that many of the Vietnamese boats have eyes painted on the front to ward off evil spirits and to help guide the boat and crew safely back to land. We disembark our boat to visit some cottage industries for which the area is famous, such as delicious and chewy coconut candy, rice cakes, Vietnamese popcorn, and pottery. Don't miss the chance to try the unique regional "elephant fish" at a local restaurant during our lunch break. After a day of touring this unique region, we return to Ho Chi Minh City in time for dinner. Approximate travel time: 4.5-5 hrs by private vehicle Accommodation: Victory Hotel (or similar) Meals included: Breakfast

      Today, we cross into Cambodia by public bus. The drive to the Vietnam-Cambodia border takes around 2 hours. After completing the border formalities, we continue by private vehicle another 3 hours to Phnom Penh, Cambodia's capital, arriving mid-afternoon. After years of civil strife and political turmoil, Cambodia is open to visitors. In the late afternoon, we each get in traditional cyclos and depart from Wat Phnom. Tour busy streets to soak up the real vibe of the city. Pass the post office and Van's restaurant, both stunning colonial buildings, and make your way to the Royal Palace and National Museum. Go along the riverside road and take in the atmospheric cafes that line the street. Approximate travel time: 2 hrs by public bus, 3 hrs by private vehicle, 1 hr on cyclo tour Accommodation: Pacific Hotel (or similar) Meals included: Breakfast

      This morning, a local guide will teach us more about the dark side of Cambodian history. We will visit to Choeung Ek, the somber yet serene site of the infamous Killing Fields. The grounds now stand as a powerful memorial filled with victims’ skulls and mass graves. Afterward, we visit the Tuol Sleng Museum, where we will learn about the dark history and devastation that occurred when the museum operated instead as Security Prison 21 (S-21) under the Khmer Rouge. We will take a guided tour to hear the stories behind the somber photos lining the museum walls. Afterward, you will have a free afternoon to explore the cities many sights: the Royal Palace, the Silver Pagoda, and/or the National Museum. You might choose to visit the Russian Market, packed with souvenirs and all the necessities of daily life. Late afternoon is a great time to visit Wat Phnom, the sanctuary where the city's namesake once stood. It is a Buddhist shrine, although a Taoist goddess and numerous monkeys also reside here. Wat Phnom is a popular hangout for residents of the city in the afternoon heat. For a fitting finale to the day, sip a drink in one of the many riverside café’s watching the sun set. Accommodation: Pacific Hotel (or similar) Meals included: Breakfast

      Today, we drive from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap, the home base from which we will explore the incredible Angkor Wat tomorrow. You can pre-book the Phase Circus with us for this day. For $18, enjoy a stellar performance by Phare, a unique and socially-conscious circus that injects Cambodian culture and history into its inspiring shows. See acrobatics, contortion, and aerial arts melded with theatre, modern dance, and more. Take in stories of war, relationships, and discrimination, inspired by the real-life experiences of Phare's creators and performers. Approximate travel time: 6 hrs by private vehicle. Accommodation: Grand Bayon Siem Reap Hotel (or similar) Meals included: Breakfast

      Today, we watch the sun rise over the massive Angkor temple complex during a guided tour. You might opt to visit the Tonlé Sap floating village, where you can see what life is like living on a lake; rice planting, pig farming, even attending churches and school are all done on top of water. If you choose to visit the interactive Angkor National Museum, you will learn about the story of Angkor and the Khmer empire. The museum's inspiring galleries and interactive technology bring Angkor's past to life. We will enjoy a traditional meal of Khmer food at a local home in a village outside the city or at a G Adventures-supported project, New Hope, depending on the day or the week. Accommodation: Grand Bayon Siem Reap Hotel (or similar) Meals included: Breakfast | Dinner

      Today, you have another free day to explore Siem Reap and Angkor, the former capital of the Khmer kingdom and one of the wonders of the archaeological world. See some of the highlights of this ancient capital, like sunrise at the magnificent temple of Angkor Wat, the enigmatic Bayon within the walled city of Angkor Thom, and Ta Prohm, also known as the "Tomb Raider" temple. You can also book at Siem Reap Quad Biking tour. After a safety briefing and test drive, hop on a quad bike and follow your guide through the scenic countryside surrounding Siem Reap. Pass rice fields, buffalo, temples, and small villages bathed in dusk light as you ride, and be sure to wave hello to friendly locals. Cap off your ride with a stop at a viewpoint to enjoy a memorable Cambodian sunset. Accommodation: Grand Bayon Siem Reap Hotel (or similar) Meals included:

      It's a long travel day today as a private vehicle takes us from the countryside of Cambodia to the modern kingdom of Thailand. The drive from Siem Reap to the border is around 3 hours. Please be aware that the border crossing formalities can take up to an hour. Upon entering Thailand, we continue our journey to Bangkok. When we arrive in Bangkok, we will have time to check into our centrally-located hotel and head out for an evening meal to celebrate the end of a wonderful journey. Approximate travel time: 8 hrs by private vehicle, including border crossing Accommodation: Hotel Royal Bangkok @ Chinatown (or similar) Meals included: Breakfast

      There are no planned activities today, so you may depart Bangkok. Bangkok's airport is Suvarnabhumi International Airport (BKK). If you wish to extend your stay in Bangkok, consider booking post-tour accommodation with us. Please note that check-out time from the hotel is usually mid-morning, but luggage storage services are available at the reception desk. Want more adventure? Book two or more GEEO programs in the same school year and receive a discount! GEEO will give you 10% off of the lesser value program(s) (up to 3 programs per year). If you would like to extend your time abroad but don't see another GEEO program that interests you, let us know. We can work with you to find a trip from our tour operator’s much larger catalog. Their tours are open to the general public and not designed specifically for educators, but we can still offer you and your travel companions a discounted educator price on any additional tours that you book. Meals included: Breakfast

      *Itinerary Disclaimer: While it is our intention to adhere to the routes described on our website, there is a certain amount of flexibility built into the itinerary and on occasion it may be necessary, or desirable, to make alterations. The itinerary is brief, as we never know exactly where our journey will take us. Due to our style of travel and the regions we visit, travel can be unpredictable. The information on our website is a general guide to the tour and region, and any mention of specific destinations or wildlife is by no means a guarantee that they will be visited or encountered. Additionally, any travel times listed are approximations only and subject to vary due to local circumstances.

      Details

      Frequently Asked Questions
      Please read our general FAQs, where you can find essential information that applies to all of our programs.
      Resources to Learn & Teach about Vietnam and Cambodia
      Visit our recommended reading page to see the list of books GEEO recommends reading before your program (this is not required reading). We also have lesson plans and Pinterest boards that may be useful for you as you learn about your destination and prepare to bring lessons back to your classroom.
      Terms and Conditions
      It is very important for you to visit our Terms and Conditions page before signing up for this program.
      GEEO Program Confirmation Process
      We require a minimum of 6 participants for most GEEO programs. We officially confirm that a program will run once at least 8 people have signed up, which provides a margin for individual cancellations. Nearly all GEEO programs ultimately meet this enrollment quota, and in the rare event that a program does not meet the minimum requirement and GEEO cancels the program, we will work with you to find a suitable alternative or provide a refund of your deposit if you prefer. We encourage you to sign up for any program that interests you, and we will notify the entire group once 6 people are booked and again once 8 people are booked. We always emphasize the importance of exercising caution when making non-refundable travel arrangements, especially given the unpredictable nature of travel. For example, we typically recommend booking flights with flexible change/cancellation policies.
      Cancellation Policy
      All cancellations must be submitted to GEEO in written form by emailing your request for cancellation to travel@geeo.org. If you do not receive a confirmation that we have received your written cancellation request, please call us at 1-877-600-0105. Verbal cancellation requests will not be honored.
      • If you cancel 60 days or more prior to the start of your program, all payments will be refunded excluding your $350 deposit, which is kept on file for future use and never expires. (Exception for participants who receive grants from our university partners: To address disruption caused by cancellation from grant recipients, deposits paid by grant recipients are forfeited upon cancellation.)
      • If you cancel between 30 and 59 days prior to the start of your program, you will receive a 50% refund and your deposit will be kept on file for future use and will never expire.
      • If you cancel within 30 days prior to the start of your program, you will receive no refund, but your deposit will be kept on file for future use and will never expire.
      Trip Notes & Expectations
      Before you decide to travel with GEEO, it is important that you read all of the information about the program contained on this page. Our programs are quite adventurous, and we find that clients who read the trip details in full are happier with their experiences.
      1. ACCOMMODATION: The purpose of the accommodation is to provide a safe, well-located place for you to sleep. Sometimes you will be pleasantly surprised, but do not expect luxury, however, as our priority is keeping our programs as affordable as possible. Sometimes the accommodation is not air-conditioned.
      2. TRANSPORTATION: We use a mix of transportation that gets our guests from location to location safely. Sometimes you will have full days and nights of transportation as our trips tend to cover a lot of ground. The transportation will often be an adventure in itself.
      3. ACTIVITY LEVEL: This trip includes light walking and hiking that is suitable for most fitness levels. The heat and humidity are the biggest physical challenges. Make sure you stay hydrated! Please make sure you have thoroughly read the itinerary and can handle the group activities, which sometimes include day hikes with your daypacks. We recommend always carrying snacks with you as meals can sometimes be far apart.
      4. TOUR LEADER: Please make sure you understand the role of your tour leader on this trip. All GEEO/G Adventures group trips are accompanied by one of G Adventure's group leaders, which they refer to as Chief Experience Officers (CEO). The aim of the group leader is to take the hassle out of your travels and to help you have the best trip possible. They will provide information on the places you are traveling through, offer suggestions for things to do and see, recommend great local eating venues, and introduce you to our local friends. Our itineraries often have plenty of free time to explore on your own. While not being guides in the traditional sense, you can expect them to have a broad general knowledge of the countries visited on the trip, including historical, cultural, religious, and social aspects. We also use local guides where we think more specific knowledge will add to the enjoyment of the places we are visiting – we think it’s the best of both worlds.
      Single Travelers
      Half of GEEO’s participants travel by themselves, so please don’t worry if you do not have a travel companion for your trip. Our program fee is for one traveler in double-occupancy accommodation, and GEEO can find you a roommate of the same gender if you do not have a travel companion. Most of our programs have a “My Own Room” option, also known as a “Single Supplement,” which is an extra fee that you can pay to have a room to yourself. You will only incur an additional charge if you specifically request a single room. To see the price for the “My Own Room” option, please find your program on our extra services page. If you want to room alone, please email travel@geeo.org to request a single room.
      Emergency Contacts
      Should you need to contact G Adventures during a situation of dire need, it is best to first call their local G Adventures office. If for any reason you do not receive an immediate answer, please leave a detailed message and contact information so they may return your call and assist you as soon as possible. EMERGENCY CONTACT NUMBERS G Adventures Local Representative (Vietnam) Ms. Thuan Emergency number: +84 88 844 9969 After office hours Emergencies: From outside Thailand +66 (0) 92 338 9222 From within Thailand (0) 92 338 9222 If for any reason you are unable to reach the G Adventures local office, please call the numbers listed below to connect with their Sales team, who will happily assist you. Toll-free, North America only: 1 888 800 4100 Calls from UK: 0344 272 0000 Calls from Germany: 0800 365 1000 Calls from Australia: 1 300 796 618 Calls from New Zealand: 0800 333 307 Outside North America, Australia, New Zealand, Germany and the UK: +1 416 260 0999
      Packing List
      Please read this article on GEEO’s blog for our staff’s suggestions on the best gear to pack for your upcoming travels. You must be prepared to carry your own bags and be comfortable carrying them up and down stairs, on and off transportation, and to hotels. As a rule, we try not to have to walk more than 15-20 minutes with your bags, which is why we recommend keeping the weight of your bags between 22-30 lb. Most travelers carry a backpack or rolling bag of small to medium size. No XXL bags please! A daypack is also essential for carrying everyday items. Space is limited on transportation, so there is a limit of one main piece of luggage per person plus a daypack per person. There may be a weight restriction for the internal flight on this tour. Each passenger is allowed to carry one checked bag with a maximum weight of 15 kg (33 lbs). Additional bags or excess weight charges may apply. These charges are the responsibility of the passengers. Suggested Checklist
      • Light windproof/waterproof jacket or umbrella
      • Sun hat
      • Quick-drying clothing for hot weather (t-shirts, shorts, etc.)
      • Daypack – you will not bring your big luggage to Halong Bay, which instead will be kept at our Hanoi hotel; a normal book bag is fine for this
      • Sturdy walking shoes
      • Sport sandals or flip-flops
      • Sunblock
      • Sunglasses
      • Electrolyte powder packets - one per day
      • Watch or alarm clock (or use your phone)
      • Clothes for religious sites – knees and shoulders must be covered
      • Toiletries – your hotels will have soap and shampoo
      • Camera (or use your phone)
      • First-aid kit, including: lip salve, aspirin, bandaids, anti-histamine, Dramamine, Imodium or similar tablets for mild cases of diarrhea, electrolyte powder, insect repellent, extra prescription drugs you may be taking
      Optional Checklist
      • Lightweight silk sleep sheet
      • Travel pillow
      • Money belt
      • Waterproof camera/phone bag (if you want to take pictures while kayaking in Halong Bay)
      • Water bottle
      • Phone/tablet for internet – most hotels have WiFi
      • Chargers for electronics as well as converters/adapters, if needed
      • AirTags or Tile trackers
      • Packing cubes
      • Earplugs
      • Snacks – packing a few granola bars is a good idea; you can buy snacks when you get there too, so don’t go crazy here
      • Ziplock bags for wet clothing
      • Reading/writing material
      • Hand sanitizer/baby wipes
      Document Checklist
      • Passport (with photocopies)
      • Any entry visas or vaccination certificates required
      • Travel insurance ID card
      • Flight itinerary/boarding pass(es)
      • USD/EUR cash
      • Credit/debit card
      • G Adventures vouchers
      • GEEO Classroom action plans for your group – this is sent a few days before departure
      Laundry
      Laundry facilities are offered by some of our hotels for a charge, or you can ask your tour leader where the nearest laundromat is located. In case you want to do your own laundry, we suggest you bring your own non-polluting/biodegradable soap.
      Passports and Visas
      All GEEO programs require that the participant have a valid passport. Please see our general FAQ for information on obtaining a passport. As with all of our trips, we try to provide the most accurate information we can, but governments sometimes change visa rules. It is your responsibility to double check the information we provide below by searching the U.S. State Department's International Travel Guidance. Please be aware that you will require 3 clean pages (minimum) in your passport and at least 6 months' validity for this trip. Vietnam U.S. citizens must apply for a single-entry tourist visa to enter Vietnam. You have until about two weeks before departure to complete an online application for an e-visa, but we suggest applying at your earliest convenience. You can use Sherpa ($45 USD) or apply for an e-visa through the Embassy of Vietnam ($25 USD). The e-visa processing time is 3 business days. Approximately three months prior to your program's start date, GEEO will provide the information you need for the e-visa application, including the temporary residential address in Vietnam and entry and exit checkpoints. Cambodia Tourists and business travelers may obtain a Cambodian visa at the airports in Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, and at all major border crossings. You may also apply for an e-visa through Sherpa for Cambodia if you wish. Keep in mind that even if you get an e-visa in advance, you will have to wait for the rest of your group if anyone in the group chooses the visa on arrival option. Thailand U.S. citizens do not need a visa for stays in Thailand of less than 30 days. Please check with your nearest Thai Embassy if you are not a U.S. citizen.
      Money Exchange
      The local currencies are the Vietnamese dong (VND), the Cambodian riel (KHR), and the Thai baht (THB). As currency exchange rates fluctuate, we ask that you refer to the following website for daily exchange rates: www.xe.com. We recommend that you obtain cash from ATMs while traveling; they will dispense the local currency. We do, however, recommend that you bring at least $200 USD in cash for emergency use or in case you have trouble with the ATMs. Major credit cards are accepted in most shops, but you may be charged an international transaction fee; ask your financial institution about their international fees. Please note that if you are carrying U.S. dollars, the bills should be in good condition (i.e., not torn, wrinkled, or marked on in any way) and dated recently. Be sure to carry lots of small bills ($1, $5, $10).
      Tipping
      It is customary in Southeast Asia to leave a small tip for service providers, such as waiters, if you are pleased with the service. Tipping is an expected, though not compulsory, component of this program and an expression of satisfaction with the people who assist you on your trip. Although it may not be customary to you, it is of considerable significance to the people who will take care of you during your travels. There will be opportunities during the trip to tip your local guides or drivers. You may do this individually, or your tour leader may offer to collect the money and give a tip on behalf of the group. Ask your tour leader for specific recommendations based on the circumstances and expectations. Also, at the end of your program, if you felt your G Adventures tour leader did an outstanding job, a tip would be appreciated. Tipping amounts are entirely your personal preference, but as a guideline:
      • Service providers/Waiters: 10% of the bill
      • Local guides and drivers: $1-2 USD per person per day
      • Tour Guide (CEO): $20-25 USD per person per week
      Vaccinations
      GEEO cannot provide any medical advice, so it is very important to consult your doctor or a travel clinic about which vaccinations you will need for your trip. We recommend contacting Passport Health, which has travel clinics located throughout the United States. You can also check the CDC's recommended vaccinations for your destination. Please take this seriously!
      Flights
      We find the best prices for flights are often available around 90-120 days before departure, but of course this varies greatly from route to route and year to year. You should wait until this trip is confirmed before you book non-refundable flights. GEEO and G Adventures bear no responsibility for any flights purchased before the trip is confirmed. This program begins in Hanoi and ends in Bangkok. Please double-check our itinerary for the date by which you must arrive in Hanoi. You may want to arrive in Hanoi one or more days early in case you have flight disruptions. You can arrive at any time you choose, but try to make it in time for our 6:00 p.m. Welcome Meeting on Day 1. You can depart from Bangkok any time on the final day of the program, or stay longer to see more of the city.
      Plugs and Converters
      There are two components to provide external power to your device: adapters and transformers (also called electrical converters). The adapter is for your device's plug, adapting the prongs on a standard U.S. two- to three-pronged power cord to fit the local outlets. The transformer/converter changes the local voltage to the voltage used in the U.S. Vietnam, Cambodia, and Thailand use a combination of both American and European outlets, known as type A and type C plugs. In all three countries, the voltage is 220-240V. (Standard U.S. electrical outlets are 120V.) Most new devices, including phones and laptops, are made to work with the different voltage rates, but some devices, like hair dryers, may only work on the U.S. standard of 120V. Check your device's plug or manual to see what voltage range it requires. Most transformer blocks will have an “Input” line that defines its voltage capacity; for example, “Input: 100-240V” means that it will work with voltages between 100V to 240V. If your device can’t handle the higher voltage, you’ll need to purchase a transformer/converter. You can find world transformers/converters online or at many retail stores in the travel section.
      Weather
      Vietnam, Cambodia, and Thailand’s wet season runs from around May to October. The wet season is characterized by a downpour for a few hours each day rather than all-day torrential downpours. The advantages of this season are lower temperatures, cleaner air, and smaller crowds. North Vietnam is typically dryer than South Vietnam during this time of the year.
      🗣️ Advice From Past Participants
      “Don’t have any expectations about ANYTHING. It’s Vietnam – it’s loud, it’s dirty, it’s crowded, it’s hot. It’s got good food, inexpensive gifts, great sites. Keep an open mind!” “You MUST be able to carry your own luggage on this trip.” “I would recommend a cooking lesson at the ‘Little Hanoi’ cooking school. It is amazing and the instructor ‘Tin’ is a culinary artist. Our guide recommended it to us… and it was phenomenal. One of the highlights of the trip and we stumbled into it on the last day. It’s run by a small family, and Tin is their head chef.” "Hoi An also has eyeglass makers so if you bring you prescription, you can get several fun pairs of custom prescription glasses at great prices." "Bring electrolytes in tablet form, not powder. The Mini Sawyer Squeeze was the BEST item I brought. We were able to filter water all of the time and not have to be on the search for a store. For Vietnam, remember to have small change for the bathroom, and it's good to have your own toilet paper on-hand." "Skip the raincoat—use a lightweight poncho instead. Bring a plastic bag to put your passport in for when it rains." “Make it clear for the Vietnam trip that you should have two bags, one large bag and one backpack big enough for overnight trips. This was not clear to those in my group, and some people did not feel prepared. “ “There are plenty of opportunities to have your laundry done very inexpensively (about $1 USD per kilo), so only bring enough clothes for about a week to save space. “ “Looking back at the website, I do see that it says that there are tailors that can make anything overnight in Hoi An, but I didn’t see this and wasn’t as prepared as I could have been to have stuff made (knowing what I wanted, getting measurements from others for gifts, etc.) maybe this could be highlighted more…” “I think it is already in there, but emphasize the need for small bills ($1, $5, $10) and in excellent condition. I brought plenty with me, but many of my tour group members struggled to get change.” “When you get to Vietnam with your visa letter, you do not get in line like everyone else. There is a window (not well identified) where you go to actually get the Visa in your passport, then wait in line.” "Download a currency converter app. Download Google Translate and all three languages of the countries (for use offline). If your phone supports it, download an e-sim card through Airalo. Download the "Grab" app and register your credit card in advance."

      Costs

      Please keep in mind that this trip offers some free time to pursue activities that interest you. Make sure you look over all of the optional activities and note these additional costs when deciding whether you can afford this program. The prices below are rough estimates for budgeting your trip.
      • Tour Company Fee: See our price in the top right corner
      • Optional Activities: $200 USD
      • International Airfare from the United States: Roughly $1,000-2,000 USD If you require assistance searching for international flights, we would be happy to help you.
      • Airport Transfers: $20-70
      • Insurance: $79-200 USD Please note: It is mandatory for all of our travelers to have Emergency Medical insurance that covers both emergency evacuation and repatriation to the sum of $200,000 USD. We also strongly recommend purchasing cancellation insurance as an add-on.
      • Tipping: $65 USD for your tour leader; another $35 USD for local guides and drivers.
      • Meals Not Listed in the Itinerary: $200-300 USD
      • Visas: $25-45 USD for Vietnam + $30-45 USD for Cambodia
      • Laundry, Drinks, Phone Calls, etc.: Make sure you budget for these types of expenses
      • Souvenirs: Variable. At your personal discretion.
      • Vaccines: Variable. Please consult with your primary care provider.
      • Non-Educator Donation: $100 USD (suggested donation) This is only for non-educator guests traveling with an educator on a GEEO trip. Educators and retired educators should not make this donation.

      Optional Activities

      Most optional activities are booked and paid for locally, sometimes in the local currency, and you do not have to decide in advance which ones you would like to sign up for. The prices listed are based on the latest information we have received from our participants and G Adventures. They are not guaranteed to be accurate. Please use them as a rough guide for budgeting your trip.
      Booked In Advance
      Please contact travel@geeo.org to book any of the following activities. They must be booked in advance of your departure. Hue Motorbike Tour: $25 USD Grab a helmet, hop on a motorbike driven by your experienced local guide, and get ready for a crash course in authentic Viet culture. Spend the next four hours exploring the stalls of a local market, making a Vietnamese conical hat, sipping on fresh green tea with a local family, learning to plow and make rice, and seeing the most iconic local sights. Don’t forget to bring your camera! Must be booked in Advance. Contact travel@geeo.org Phare Circus: $18 USD Enjoy a stellar performance by Phare, a unique and socially conscious circus that injects Cambodian culture and history into its inspiring shows. See acrobatics, contortion, and aerial arts melded with theatre, modern dance, and more. Take in stories of war, relationships, and discrimination, inspired by the real-life experiences of Phare’s creators and performers. Must be booked in Advance. Contact travel@geeo.org
      HANOI
      Museum of Ethnology: $2 USD Learn about Vietnam’s various ethnic groups on this visit to the Museum of Ethnology – considered to be the finest modern museum in Vietnam. Temple of Literature: $1 USD Visit this sprawling temple built to honor Confucius, sages, and scholars. Dedicated to learning, it housed the country’s first university in 1076. Explore its five courtyards, containing various gates, altars, sanctuaries, shrines, the stelae of doctors, and the Well of Heavenly Clarity. Tran Quoc Pagoda Visit: Free admission Visit one of the oldest pagodas in Vietnam located on the eastern shore of Tay Ho. Learn about Tran Quoc's history from the 17th-century stela found on site. View it later in the day, if you can – the tall structure is striking against the setting sun. Thăng Long Water Puppet Theatre Performance: $8 USD Watch a traditional Vietnamese water puppet show with beautiful live music and intricate puppets dancing in a water stage. Hanoi Foodie Culture Tour: $25 USD Indulge your inner foodie with a street food tour through bustling Hanoi. Follow your guide through the back streets and markets of the city’s old quarter, sampling local fare along the way. Mingle with city natives and experienced street food artists alike, as you taste a variety of Hanoi faves like “nem ran” and “banh goi.” Stop at a street-side bar to savor a draught beer as Hanoians do. Cap off the tour at the Hanoi Food Culture restaurant, a G Values Fund Project, and try the city’s signature specialty coffee. Fine Arts Museum: $1 USD Women’s Museum: $1 USD Army Museum: $1 USD Taxi (to each museum): approx. $3 USD
      HALONG BAY
      Kayak Rental: $10 USD Transfer from boat to kayak in this guided water tour, giving you the chance to get even closer to the stunning natural surroundings.
      HUẾ
      Bicycle Hire: $1 USD
      HOI AN
      Cooking Class: $30 USD Take a cooking class to learn more about Vietnamese food and its distinct flavors. Tour the local market to buy fresh ingredients before preparing some popular regional dishes. Enjoy your creations when you're done! Lantern Making Class: $16 USD Colored lanterns are a symbol of Hoi An, where locals believe they bring happiness, luck, and wealth. Bring home a souvenir that you made yourself: Choose from a variety of different silks, and then work with your instructor to craft a bamboo frame and create your lantern, which will fold away neatly into your luggage. Mỹ Sơn Ruins, including transport: $30 USD Travel approximately one hour from Hoi An to arrive at My Son. Tour these Hindu temples built between the fourth and 14th centuries; the site is widely accepted as one of the most important Hindu temple complexes in Southeast Asia. Learn about the architectural style and history of a site that’s often compared to Angkor Wat in Cambodia and Bagan in Burma. Thu Bon River Boat Trip: $12 USD The Thu Bon River plays an important part in Hoi An's history and culture. Take a trip down the Thu Bon by riverboat for an alternative tour of the city.
      HO CHI MINH CITY
      Thien Hau Pagoda: Free Visit the Thien Hau Pagoda, a beautiful temple in the Chinatown district of Ho Chi Minh City. Learn more about the customs associated with this 19th-century monument: It is dedicated to the goddess Thien Hau (the 'Lady of the Sea'), who is worshipped in Chinese communities throughout Asia by those who depend on the sea for their livelihoods. Giac Vien Pagoda: Free Find this hidden pagoda behind some small alleyways. It has been spared the over-restoration that has been done to so many other temples. Tour the inside of the 18th-century pagoda to see nearly one hundred carvings of divine beings. Ben Thanh Market: Free Wander this bustling market for more insight into Ho Chi Minh City. Pick up souvenirs, sample local cuisine, and experience local living. Learn a little history along the way; Ben Thanh started as a cluster of street vendors selling wares by the Saigon River and was formalized into a true market in 1859. War Remnants Museum: $2 USD Visit the War Remnants Museum, a gut-wrenching but worthwhile experience that includes three stories of exhibits and military hardware. Learn about the devastation that occurred in Saigon during the Vietnam War, a period that greatly contrasts the joy and liveliness of the Vietnamese people today. Reunification Palace: $2 USD Wander the historic halls of the Reunification Palace (Independence Palace), a landmark in Ho Chi Minh City. This former home of the South Vietnamese president during the Vietnam War became the location of the end of the war when a North Vietnamese tank pushed through the palace gates on April 30, 1975.
      PHENOM PENH
      National Museum: $10 USD Visit Cambodia's largest museum of culture, history, and archaeology. Tour its buildings inspired by Khmer architecture – constructed in the early 1900s, they house one of the world's largest collections of Khmer art. Visits here are well worth your time. The Silver Pagoda: $10 USD Tour the Royal Palace complex to see the neighboring Silver Pagoda (aka the Temple of the Emerald Buddha). See the many magnificent treasures inside this beautiful vihara (Buddhist monastery), including its floor lined with more than 5,000 tiles of silver.
      SIEM REAP
      Tonle Sap Floating Village Tour: $22-26 USD Tour the floating villages of Tonlé Sap. See what life is like living on a lake — rice planting, pig farming, and even attending churches and school, are all done on top of the water. (Please note: this activity runs seasonally.) Angkor Museum: $12 USD Learn about the story of Angkor and the Khmer empire at the interactive Angkor Museum. Explore the museum’s inspiring galleries and interactive technology, which bring Angkor’s past to life. Opt to rent an audioguide (5USD) for the full experience.
      BANGKOK
      Grand Palace: $15 USD Visit the King’s official residence (made up of many buildings, halls, lawns, gardens, and courtyards) on the banks of the Chao Phraya River and see the Temple of the Emerald Buddha. Jim Thompson’s House: $4 USD Tour the Jim Thompson House, a Bangkok museum that was once the home of American businessman Jim Thompson, the “Legendary American of Thailand.” See his collection of Buddhist and secular art, amassed while building his silk company. National Museum: $1.50 USD See Thai artifacts on display from the Dvaravati, Srivijaya, Sukhothai, and Ayutthaya periods as well as other Southeast Asian collections. Royal Barge Museum: $3.50 USD Located along the Chao Phraya River, the museum is home to many ceremonial barges. The barges are only used for special occasions so this is a chance to catch a rare glimpse of their ornate decorations and symbolic features. Wat Arun: $3 USD Visit Wat Arun, a Buddhist temple and one of Thailand’s best-known landmarks. Tour inside to see its central prang (a Khmer-style tower) adorned with colorful porcelain. Thai massage: $15-30 USD Lie back and soothe aching muscles with a wonderful Thai massage. Affordable and amazing—don't miss out!