Each new booking comes with the complimentary UTO Worry-Free Plan ? (Click here for more details)
☆ Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site at Ayutthaya, the Ancient Capital of Thailand
☆ Discover the UNESCO world heritage Site by the Mekong River - Luang Prabang, Laos
☆ Experience the UNESCO City of Gastronomy - Phuket Town , the South of Thailand
☆ Visit the UNESCO World Heritage site at Angkor Wat, Cambodia
☆ Cruise the Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Vietnam
☆ Stroll around the UNESCO World Heritage Site - Ancient town of Hoi An, Vietnam
☆ Relax & free yourself at Phuket, a World-Famous Island
☆ Stay at Bangkok and Ho Chi Minh City - two of the largest cities in Southeast Asia
Tour Code: USISA23
Duration: 23 Days
Optional Features and Upgrades: Since the seats are limited, we recommend you to choose optional and extension programs at the time of booking:
Extra Service: Travel Insurance Visa Service
1) Round-trip international flight from New York City / Los Angeles for NO additional charge
The following departure cities are available for additional charge:
Additional U$300/person | San Francisco / Seattle / San Jose / Washington / Boston / Las Vegas / Chicago / Houston |
Additional U$500/person | Atlanta / Austin / Charlotte / Dallas / Denver / Detroit / Memphis / Miami / Milwaukee |
Additional U$500/person | Oklahoma City / Philadelphia / Phoenix / Portland / Sacramento / San Antonio / San Diego |
2) Domestic flight from Bangkok to Luang Prabang, Luang Prabang to Siem Reap, Siem Reap to Bangkok, Pattaya to Phuket, Phuket to Hanoi, Hanoi to Da Nang, Da Nang to Ho Chi Minh City
3) Ground transportation between the cities ( BY BUS )
4) Hand-picked 5 star hotel accommodations. (Based on ratings by booking.com)
5) Sightseeing admission fees as listed on the agenda
6) Food as specified on the itinerary
7) Special cultural programs as specified in the schedule
8) Professional English speaking local tour expert
9) All tax and fuel surcharge
10) UTOvacation’s Worry Free Plan ? (Click Here for More Details)
1). Travel insurance
2). Any personal expenses
3). Tour Extensions and Optional programs
4). Gratuity* for tour guides and drivers
5). Single supplement U$2100 (*Our tour price is based on double occupancy and if a single passenger is traveling solo and not sharing room with any roommate for the entire trip, a single supplement fee is charged. If a passenger shares a room with travel partner(s) on the tour, such fee is waived.)
ALL PRICES ARE IN USD
DEPOSIT POLICY:
1) Deposit: U$2000/person at the time of booking.
2) Final Payment: 180 days prior to the trip departure.
Optional program and Upgrades:
* Since the seats are limited, we recommend you to choose optional and extension programs at the time of booking.
Group Size:
☆ 2 - 10 Each Departure Date.
Local Special Dinner Included:
Your voyage begins with an international flight from the US to Bangkok, the capital of Thailand
**depends on your departure city, you may have to depart from your departure city 1 day earlier than the itinerary departure date.
Welcome to Thailand! Known as the City of Angels, Bangkok is the capital city and the focal point for Thailand. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel and enjoy the remainder of the evening to rest and relax.
This morning, your sightseeing in Bangkok begins with a visit to the Bangkok Chinatown District, and the Temple of Golden Buddha (Wat Traimit), home to the world’s biggest solid-gold Buddha statue. It’s measured at 10 feet high, weighed for over 5 tons, and valued at $14m. Afterwards, visit serene Wat Po (Temple of the Reclining Buddha), the oldest and largest temple in the city, with its astonishing giant Reclining Buddha, over 150 feet long and almost 40 feet high. Drive via Royal Avenue where most of the Government offices and the King"s Palace are located. Then, experience the Gems Gallery, learning about Thailand’s most prized gemstones. The rest of the day is at leisure before tonight"s orientation meeting with your Tour Manager at approximately 5:30 PM, followed by a welcome dinner.
This morning, enjoy the journey to Ayutthaya, home to the UNESCO listed ruins of the medieval capital of Siam. Seeing the restored chedi of the crumbled Wat Phra Mahathat which was built in 1374 at the start of the Ayutthaya era, it is an impressive temple ruin originally constructed to house Buddha relics that mysteriously appeared to an early Ayutthaya king. The temple is famed for Buddha images that have tree roots grown around them to an amazing effect. Afterwards, visit the Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon located off the city island in the southeastern area of Ayutthaya in present Phai Ling Sub-district. It"s one of the landmarks of Ayutthaya.
Spend the morning at leisure before transferring to the airport for the flight to Luang Prabang, a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its unique mix of Laotian and European architecture. According to legend, Buddha smiled when he rested here during his travels and prophesied that it would one day be the site of a rich and powerful capital city. Upon arrival, participate in a special Baci Ceremony, practiced for hundreds of years, with prayers to bestow good fortunes upon you! Enjoy the beautiful sights in this city - an outstanding example of the fusion of traditional architecture and Lao urban structures with those built by the Europeans.
Luang Prabang seems totally untouched by the modern world. In the morning, take part in the Alms Giving Ceremony to orange-robed monks which is one of the most sacred ancient Lao traditions. This daily ceremony is both peaceful and spiritual and gives you a wonderful opportunity to experience an ancient Lao tradition. Then, embark on a lovely boat trip to the Pak Ou Caves, unveiling hundreds of Buddha sculptures that have spanned many centuries. Continue to a local village that makes its own rice wine before lunch at a local restaurant. Go on your discovery of this city on the revered hillside of Phou Si where Buddhist shrines on wooded slopes command your attention, along with sweeping views of the Mekong River. Later, visit the Royal Palace Museum to learn about the monarchy that once ruled the country, and Wat Xieng Thong, the former royal temple.
Transfer to the airport for your flight to Siem Reap, Cambodia. Upon arrival, meet your Tour Manager and enjoy lunch before checking into your hotel. Remainder of the afternoon is at leisure.
Today, you"ll understand why the architectural masterpieces of Angkor Thom and Angkor Wat are designated as one of the "Seven Wonders of the World". This sprawling city, built by Khmer kings, was once home to more than one million people at the height of the empire. On the tour to the fortified city of Angkor Thom, you will visit the Elephants Terrace and Terrace of the Leper King, all adorned with dramatic bas-reliefs. Continue to the mysterious Bayon Temple, highlight of Angkor Thom, replete with beautifully preserved bas-reliefs and more than 172 giant smiling stone faces. On to the monuments of Ta Keo, Prasat Kravan and Srah Srang before arriving at Ta Prohm, where the jungle was left untouched, as it appeared to European explorers. The high point of the day is the visit to stunning Angkor Wat, a temple dedicated to the Hindu god Vishnu. World-famous for its beauty and splendor, Angkor Wat has the longest continuous bas-relief in the world, which runs along the entire outer gallery walls, narrating stories from Hindu mythology. Stay to experience the unforgettable sunset - a view that cannot be compared to anything you have ever seen! This evening, savor a typical Cambodian dinner accompanied with an Apsara dance show. A traditional Khmer performance, Apsara performances portray a story or message through the dance.
After check-out, transfer to the airport for the return flight to Bangkok. Continue to Pattaya, a seaside resort on the East Coast of the Gulf of Thailand, with its beautiful beaches and sparkling azure waters. Arrive at the hotel and spend the remainder of the day at leisure.
Today, visit the Khao Phra Tamnak - Located on a small hill on the south of Pattaya Beach, which is the best spot to see the panoramic view of Pattaya City and Pattaya Bay from above. Then, visit The Sanctuary of Truth - a gigantic wooden construction which covers an internal space of 2,115 m2, and one of most interesting attractions in Pattaya! Constructed to preserve the building techniques of the past, the building exemplifies hand-hewn woodworking skills in Thailand. Built based on the religious philosophy of impermanence, the complex features four wings dedicated to Thai, Khmer, Chinese, and Indian religious iconography respectively. Check out the intricate wooden carvings as you walk around the building.
This morning, transfer to the airport for your flight to Phuket, the largest island in Thailand. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel. The rest of the day is at leisure to begin your exploration of this "paradise on earth" with its world-class beaches and chic jet-set atmosphere.
Start today with a morning sightseeing tour of Phuket. Admire the island’s porcelain-white beaches and take a drive to the Old Town to view its historic Sino-Portuguese architecture. It was built by riches reaped from Phuket"s tin boom of the last century, when the metal was an extremely valuable commodity. Afterwards, transfer to the Laem Hin Pier, and ride on a Long-tailed boat to Pearl Farm, to gain a little knowledge of south-sea pearls, and follow the Souvenir shop. Special dinner in local flavor is included today.
Today you are at leisure to relax, rejuvenate and enjoy the beautiful surroundings. Or, travel by speedboat on the optional full day excursion to the magnificent Phi Phi Islands & Bamboo Island.
Optional Tour: Full Day Phi Phi & Bamboo Islands by Speedboat – U$159/person
Full day excursion to the beautiful Phi Phi Islands with lunch. Departing from the pier by speedboat, travel first to Bamboo Island to relax on the private beach with its sparkling white sand. Lunch is at a local restaurant before continuing to the magnificent Phi Phi Islands, rising from the sea, featuring sheer cliffs and vivid blue waters. Visit Monkey Beach and meet the friendly monkeys that live here. After, view Viking Cave, a limestone cave well-known as a nesting site for swifts. Discover the beautiful scenery of Loh Samah Bay and Pileh Cove with its calm turquoise water, both great spots for swimming and snorkeling. Continue to Maya Bay, the site where the movie “The Beach” was partially filmed. Spend the rest of the day swimming, sunbathing, or just relaxing at the beach before transferring back to the hotel.
Today you are at leisure to relax, rejuvenate and enjoy the beautiful surroundings.
Today you will fly to Hanoi, Vietnam’s vibrant capital. Arrive in Hanoi and meet your expert guide and transfer to the hotel. The remainder of the day is yours to relax or start exploring this compelling city, which blends the mystique of yesteryear with modern-day architecture.
Vietnam’s second largest city, Hanoi has been occupied by the French, Chinese and Japanese through its1,000-year history and boasts tree-lined boulevards, busy markets and colonial buildings that all demand exploration. Today, visit the Ho Chi Minh Memorial to see Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum, and peer into the Stilt House where the revered Vietnamese spiritual leader lived from 1958 to 1969. Other must-sees include the Temple of Literature and Museum of Ethnology. After lunch, visit Hoan Kiem Lake and Ngoc Son Temple and pass colonial landmarks such as the Opera House and St Joseph"s Cathedral. Finish your day with a colorful water puppet performance.
Today, gaze out over rural Vietnam as we drive to UNESCO listed Halong Bay, a spectacular bay dotted with over 1,000 limestone islands. On arrival, transfer to a junk boat, your comfortable floating home for an overnight cruise. Enjoy a welcome drink and lunch on board as you sail past islands, fishing villages and craggy caves. Explore Sung Sot Cave, hiking up and down 600 steps to the magnificent limestone formations of the biggest cave in Halong Bay. Snap photos of the sublime scenery and return to the vessel to join the cooking demonstration with the cruise’s chef. Savor the meal on board tonight before retiring to your deluxe cabin.
Rise early for a Tai Chi session on deck: the perfect opportunity to prepare for the day and admire a breathtaking sunrise over Halong’s waters. Before breakfast, relax on board or go visit Titov Island. Back on board to enjoy the breakfast as we cruise back to dock. Disembark and bid farewell to Halong as we travel back to Hanoi and fly to Danang, one of Vietnam’s fastest growing cities.
This morning, journey over the towering mountains to Hue, Vietnam’s former capital. Visit the Imperial Citadel, a vast complex reminiscent of Beijing’s Forbidden City. Enter the Ngo Mon Gate, the principal entrance to the Imperial Enclosure and the central passageway reserved for use by the emperor. Continue to the Thai Hoa Palace with its spacious hallways and ornamental roof, the Halls of the Mandarins, the Nine Dynastic Urns, and the ruins of the Forbidden Purple City, once home to the royal family. Return to Da Nang in the afternoon.
Travel south to the picturesque ancient town of Hoi An, where people still wear the "ao dai", Vietnam"s traditional dress. The Ancient town of Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, was the most important trading port in Southeast Asia in the 15th century. Its ancient past is superbly preserved in an enchanting collection of temples, pagodas, shop houses and magnificent private homes in the town"s Old Quarter. Later, transfer to Da Nang Airport for a short flight to Ho Chi Minh City, better known as Saigon, for three nights. Conquered by the French in the 19th century, this intoxicating city still sports boulevards and grand European buildings — colonial vestiges that contrast starkly with its now predominantly Buddhist culture and booming capitalist-driven economy.
Today, our guided tour of the historic center showcases Dong Khoi Street, formerly the Rue Catinat and the ornate City Hall, Opera House, Notre Dame Cathedral and the Central Post Office. Afterward, visit the Reunification Palace and haunting War Remnants Museum before a visit to the sparkling Emperor of Jade Pagoda. The rest of the day is for you at leisure to explore this bustling metropolis.
Optional Tour: Full Day Mekong Delta River Tour – U$159/person
The Mekong River is the lifeblood of Southeast Asia. It starts from Tibet, running through 5 countries before entering Vietnam with a great basin consisting of 9 tributaries. Today"s journey into the Mekong Delta region will take us along the newly built highway, picturesque countryside and seemingly endless paddy fields. Upon arrival at My Tho, you will board a private motor boat for a fascinating cruise along the river, observing the daily life of local people on the waterways. The tour includes a sampan ride through the winding canals, a visit to a coconut factory, handicraft workshop, honey bee farm. You will be introduced to the daily life of the local people, learning about local fruit and plants as well as an opportunity to sample some local tropical fruit in an orchard. The tour ends with a great lunch at a local restaurant by the river bank. Return to H Chi Minh City by bus.
Today you are at leisure to further explore the city on your own, or just relax in your hotel.
Free at leisure until transfer from the hotel to the airport. Tour ends.
Note: *Depending on the air availability, flight back to USA/Canada may depart (00:00 am-03: 00 am) on the next day.
TRANSPORTATION UPGRADES:
☆ Upgrade To Business Class (Only Available For USA -- Asia International Round Trip): U$5000/person
(Early Bird Price: U$3000)
OPTIONAL PROGRAMS (Choose before the trip):
☆ Day 13. Full Day Phi Phi & Bamboo Islands by Speedboat: U$159/person
☆ Day 21. Full Day Mekong Delta River Tour: U$159/person
FAMILY & FRIENDS PASTIME:
☆ If you and your loved one(s) are keen on exploring the trip only by yourselves without traveling with strangers, simply pay the Private Tour Guarantee Surcharge (U$2999/person) and we will help to provide your journey with a truly private vacation experience for land portion.
☆ Private guide, private car/van, private dining will be assigned and arranged exclusively just for you and your party for the whole trip:
(Early Bird Price: U$1999/person)
RETURN FLIGHT DEVIATION SERVICE:
1) Return Flight Deviation Service - 3 days (Airport drop-off service not included)
Price: U$299/person
Early Bird Price: U$99
Included:
*Air Ticket change fee & fare difference from the original itinerary
2) Return Flight Deviation Service - 5 days (Airport drop-off service not included)
Price: U$399/person
Early Bird Price: U$199
Included:
*Air Ticket change fee & fare difference from the original itinerary
3) Return Flight Deviation Service - 6-20 days (Airport drop-off service not included)
Price: U$499/person
Early Bird Price: U$299
Included:
*Air Ticket change fee & fare difference from the original itinerary
*Please note the exact departure date may be selected at a later point prior to final payment or you may specify your preferred return date in the "Remark" Column.
Hand-picked 5 star hotels: (Based on ratings by booking.com)
Bangkok 3 Nights – Pullman Bangkok King Power or similar
Luang Prabang 2 Nights – Pullman Luang Prabang Hotel or similar
Siem Reap 2 Nights – Angkor Miracle Resort & Spa or similar
Pattaya 2 Nights – Pullman Pattaya Hotel G or similar
Phuket 3 Nights – Pullman Phuket Panwa Beach Resort or similar
Hanoi 3 Nights – Pullman Hanoi Hotel or similar
Halong Bay 5-Star Cruise - Paradise Elegance Cruise or similar
Da Nang 2 Nights – Pullman Danang Beach Resort or similar
Ho Chi Minh City 3 Nights – Pullman Saigon Centre or similar
International Air:
* UTOvacation reserves the right to confirm the airlines below:
☆ Air Canada
☆ Air China
☆ Hainan Airlines
☆ China Eastern Airlines
☆ Singapore Airlines
☆ Cathy Pacific Airlines
☆ China Southern Airlines
☆ United Airline
☆ American Airline
☆ Delta Airline
☆ Xiamen Airlines
☆ Beijing Capital Airlines
☆ Sichuan Airlines
☆ Hongkong Airline
☆ Eva Air
☆ Saudia
THAILAND DOES NOT REQUIRE A VISA FOR USA & CANADA PASSPORT HOLDERS.
VIETNAM, CAMBODIA and LAOS REQUIRE THE VISA FOR USA & CANADA PASSPORT HOLDERS.
* UTOvaction"s Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos E-visa Service Option (Single entry, 30 days stay): U$329/person
Visit the "IATA Travel Centre" for detailed information on country-specific passport, visa and health requirements:
https://www.iatatravelcentre.com/passport-visa-health-travel-document-requirements.htm
Call 1-855-526-1286 or email visaapplication@utovacation.com for any inquiries about travel visas.
More about Travel Documents
*It is your responsibility to ensure that you- and any child travelling with you- have all the valid travel documents necessary to enter in, exit from or transit through, each country/region on your itinerary. Note that the documents required for the outbound portion of your travel may differ from those required for the return.
*Your passport should be valid for six months beyond your date of return. Passport must be in good condition: passport damaged beyond normal wear and tear will not be accepted.
*Consult with the appropriate embassy, high commission or consulate about the travel document requirement for any country that you plan to enter in, exit from or transit through.
*Some country no longer issue paper visas but rather electronic visas. E-Visa holders must present the printed e-Visa and valid passport at the checkpoint.
*International travel with infants and children may be required to show documentary evidence of your relationship and a Letter Consent or permission for the child’s travel from the parent(s) or legal guardian not present.
*Americans holding dual citizenship must travel to the United States with a valid U.S. passport. American permanent residents returning to the United States from abroad must carry a valid passport and a valid U.S. Permanent Resident Card (Green Card).
*Canadians holding dual citizenship must travel to Canada with a valid Canadian passport. Canadian permanent residents returning Canada from abroad must carry a valid passport and a valid Canadian Permanent Resident Card (PR Card).
Thailand is often referred to as the “land of smiles,” and while it may be a cliché, it also happens to be quite true. On the whole, Thailand is a very welcoming, friendly country, particularly when you get outside the large tourist centers like Phuket and Bangkok. Also, Thailand is famous for its beautiful white sand beaches and stunning, clear blue seas, with over 2,000 miles of coastline and 8,000 tropical islands!
Packing List For Thailand:
l Passport – Ensure your passport is valid for at least a year and has plenty of blank pages. Also get a passport cover – they’re cheap, and will protect your passport from damage plus provide a handy place to stash tickets etc whilst in transit.
l Travel Insurance – Make sure you have travel insurance that covers your full range of activities e.g. scuba diving (World Nomads backpacker travel insurance is recommended by Lonely Planet amongst others and can be bought immediately online)
l Thai SIM card – it’s much cheaper to switch over to a Thai SIM card on your phone rather than use roaming from home. You can buy a Thai SIM card online with Klook and pick it up at the counter at the airport when you arrive in Thailand. Alternatively, you buy a SIM at one of the telecom shops at the airport or once you’re in the city.
l Do I Need A Visa For Thailand? – USA and Canada nationalities do NOT need a visa for Thailand – you simply arrive in Thailand and get a stamp that allows you to stay 30 days in Thailand. (This is technically known as a visa waiver stamp). See this official list for the full rundown of which nationalities do not require a visa to enter Thailand.
l Prescription Medicines – Have a full supply of any prescription medicines you require
l Credit Cards and Debit Cards – Have credit cards and a debit card that will work in international ATMs and won’t block you due to being accessed from Thailand.
Must-Have Items to Carry - Whether you purchase them locally or bring them from home, you'll certainly want each of these essentials with you:
l Sunscreen: Prices for sunscreen often reflect the fact that locals rarely use it.
l Sunglasses: Sunglasses often get abused, so consider buying a cheap pair locally.
l Mosquito Repellent: Dengue fever is a serious problem throughout Thailand. The best defense is to protect yourself from bites. Mosquito coils can be purchased everywhere; burn them while sitting on your porch or balcony.
l Toilet Paper: You'll find it on tables in restaurants but not always in the bathrooms!
l Hand Sanitizer: Soap isn't a guarantee, even in nice restaurants. You'll certainly want some after your first squat toilet experience.
l Power Adapter: Most of the power outlets in Thailand are universal now; they accept both the US-style flat-pronged plugs as well as the rounded European-style power plugs. To ensure that you can connect everywhere, consider bringing a universal power adapter and check the voltage ratings (Thailand uses a 220-volt system) on your devices/chargers. Anything that relies on USB charging or has a dual-voltage transformer should be fine.
Clothing:
The casual outdoor clothes are highly recommended. A pair of comfortable walking shoes. Socks, pants, and underwear. An umbrella and waterproof coat will be strongly recommended because it often rains in Thailand. Bring clothes according to in which season you are traveling.
Bangkok, Thailand: Annual Weather Averages
April is the hottest month in Bangkok with an average temperature of 31°C (87°F) and the coldest is December at 26°C (79°F) with the most daily sunshine hours at 9 in December. The wettest month is September with an average of 220mm of rain. The best month to swim in the sea is in April when the average sea temperature is 30°C (86°F).
Phuket Thailand: Annual Weather Averages
March is the hottest month in Phuket with an average temperature of 29°C (83°F) and the coldest is January at 27°C (81°F) with the most daily sunshine hours at 9 in April. The wettest month is September with an average of 400mm of rain. The best month to swim in the sea is in April when the average sea temperature is 30°C (86°F).
Laos
Vietnam is a Southeast Asian country on the South China Sea known for its beaches, rivers, Buddhist pagodas and bustling cities. Hanoi, the capital, pays homage to the nation’s iconic Communist-era leader, Ho Chi Minh, via a huge marble mausoleum. Ho Chi Minh City (formerly Saigon) has French colonial landmarks, plus Vietnamese War history museums and the Cu Chi tunnels, used by Viet Cong soldiers
Cambodia is a Southeast Asian nation whose landscape spans low-lying plains, the Mekong Delta, mountains and Gulf of Thailand coastline. Phnom Penh, its capital, is home to the art deco Central Market, glittering Royal Palace and the National Museum's historical and archaeological exhibits. In the country's northwest are the ruins of Angkor Wat, a massive stone temple complex built during the Khmer Empire.
Packing List For Vietnam/Cambodia:
- Passport – Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months and has plenty of blank pages. Also get a passport cover – they’re cheap, and will protect your passport from damage plus provide a handy place to stash tickets etc whilst in transit.
- Travel Insurance – Make sure you have travel insurance that covers your full range of activities e.g. scuba diving (World Nomads backpacker travel insurance is recommended by Lonely Planet amongst others and can be bought immediately online)
- Do I Need A Visa For Vietnam/Cambodia? – USA and Canada nationalities need a visa for Vietnam – Canadian passport holder / Single entry valid for up to 1 Month; USA and Canada nationalities need a the Arrival Visa for Cambodia, please refer to the visa information site for more details.
Must-Have Items to Carry - Whether you purchase them locally or bring them from home, you'll certainly want each of these essentials with you:
- Sunscreen: Prices for sunscreen often reflect the fact that locals rarely use it.
- Sunglasses: Sunglasses often get abused, so consider buying a cheap pair locally.
- Mosquito Repellent: Dengue fever is a serious problem throughout Thailand. The best defense is to protect yourself from bites. Mosquito coils can be purchased everywhere; burn them while sitting on your porch or balcony.
- Toilet Paper: You'll find it on tables in restaurants but not always in the bathrooms!
- Hand Sanitizer: Soap isn't a guarantee, even in nice restaurants. You'll certainly want some after your first squat toilet experience.
- If you have a 3 program plug you will need to bring an adapter to change to 2 prongs (flat and round). Make sure your electronics can take 220 volts .
Important Information:
- Credit cards: Visa card/Master card are very common. They are accepted in major hotels, shops, banks & elsewhere.
- Currency: You can withdraw cash from ATM machines. ATM's are widely used in all cities.
The U.S. dollar is accepted everywhere . The exchange rate: 1 USD ~ 21,000.00 VND (Vietnamese dong), 1 USD ~ 4000 Riel (Cambodian currency). In Cambodia, US dollars is widely used , you don’t need to exchange USD to Riel. In Vietnam, you should exchange US dollars to Vietnamese dong at the banks for more propitious payment at local shops, local restaurants
- Weather:
* The weather in Vietnam can be split by region. In Hanoi & the north, May to October is hot and humid with high rainfall; November to April is cooler and dry. In the far north, December & January can be particularly cold. Central Vietnam experiences hot, dry weather between January & August when temperatures can hit the mid-30°C’s; whilst high levels of rainfall can occur in September, October & November. Southern Vietnam is generally dry and hot from November to April, and warm and wet between May & October, with the highest rainfall in June, July & August.
* The dry season in Cambodia runs from October to April, and the wet season from May until September, with the heaviest rainfall generally in August & September. Average temperatures range from 24°C in the cooler months of October, November & December to 35°C at the hottest time of the year from March until June.
- Clothing: Appropriate attire when visiting temples/pagodas in Vietnam & Cambodia is long pants (covering the knee) and Shirt or blouse covering your shoulder. Skirts, small shorts, tank tops, and other items of revealing clothing are not allowed within temple grounds (Angkor Temples). Visitors can and are frequently turned away from temples when wearing revealing clothing.
- Medical services: Services is available 24/24 hours. Vaccination is not required. Bring some insect repellent as you are traveling in a tropical area and bring medicine for your stomach in case food doesn’t agree or to treat diarrhea.
- Internet: Widely available in hotels, restaurants/café shops and be free of charge for WIFI or cable.
- Shopping: Vietnam is a shopper’s paradise. Wood products are better purchased in the south, ceramics in the north. Silk in Vietnam is of some of the highest quality in the world.
Hotel Preferred Bedding Configuration
- Twin Room (two separate beds)
- Double Room (one bed)
*Requests are not guaranteed and are subject to each hotel's discretion and availability.
Any of the travel products or services that you purchase from UTOvacation contains a contractual agreement between you and UTOvacation and it represents that you have agreed to UTOvacation Terms and conditions. Please make sure that you read carefully before making any payment.
Reservation
Online Reservations
Step 1. Visit UTOvacation website: www.utovacation.com, login or register your account. (Learn how to book online Click Here)
Step 2. Choose your desired departure date and departure city
Step 3. Enter the travellers’ information according to their passports. Please identify and provide the contact information for the main passenger. All communication from UTOvacation will be sent to the main passenger only.
Step 4. Make a deposit online
A Non-refundable, non-transferable deposit is required to secure the space.
1) Initial deposit: USD$2000/pp at the time of booking. (The USD$2000.00 deposit counts towards the final payment)
2) Final Payment: 180 days prior to the trip departure. A full payment is required when booking if the package is a special-sale product.
Step 5. Finalize the booking.
Final Payment
Balance payment of any regular products or services is due 180 days prior to departure unless specified. If the full payment is not obtained by the due date, UTOvacation reserves the right to cancel such reservation and retain the pre-paid deposit to cover any expenses occurred.
* In addition, some products may require a second deposit before final payment. Please carefully review your product pages for reference.
Please note: Your timely payment is important to guarantee your seat/cabin and ensure the overall tour package price. Your final payment will NOT be charged automatically by UTOvacation and payment reconciliation in time on your side is necessary to confirm your booking.
The full or final payment is required 180 days prior to the tour departure date. For all packages, all essential travel documents, which include but are not limited to a Valid Passport Copy, should be submitted by this date. Additionally, for land-only packages, any flight information should also be provided by the final payment due date.
Step 6. Trip Confirmation.
A final trip confirmation by email including day by day itinerary, hotel information, and flight information will be sent to the main contact passenger approximately one month before departure.
By booking your tour online with UTOvacation.com you acknowledge and agree to all three terms and conditions including the Internet Sales & Deposit Policy and the Sales and Cancellation Policy. You also confirm and agree that you understand that the deposit is non-refundable.
Offline Reservations
Step 1. Complete the reservation.
Call 1-855-526-1286 to request a Booking Form. Fill out all the information on the Booking Form with an authentic signature and date on the bottom of the second page. It is the passenger"s responsibility to ensure documentation accuracy and travel documents validity. You will be liable for the full loss caused by incorrect information. By the time you full-fill the booking form, you have agreed to receive correspondence from UTOvacation which might include newsflash, email blast or any other promotions in the future.
Email/Fax your current and valid Passport Copy with the Booking Form together to booking@utovacation.com/416-251-7778
Step 2. Finalize the booking.
Balance payment of any regular products or services is due 180 days prior to departure unless specified. If the full payment is not obtained by the due date, UTOvacation reserves the right to cancel such reservation and retain the pre-paid deposit to cover any expenses occurred. * In addition, some products may require a second deposit before final payment. Please carefully review your product pages for your reference.
Step 3. Trip Confirmation.
A final trip confirmation by email including day by day itinerary, hotel information, and flight information will be sent to the main contact passenger one month prior to departure.
Make the reservations. A Non-refundable, non-transferable deposit is required to secure the space. We accept cash, cheque, money order, debit card, credit card, email transfer, TD transfer. A full payment is required when booking if the package is a special on-sale product.
By booking your tour offline with UTOvacation.com, you acknowledge and agree to all three terms and conditions including the Internet Sales & Deposit Policy and the Sales and Cancellation Policy. You also confirm and agree that you understand that the deposit is non-refundable.
Travel Visa
The following documents from the passenger are required if travel visa is applied through UTOvacation’s Visa Center:
*Remarks: If acquiring a visa on your own, the supporting documents will be provided from UTOvacation One Month prior to the trip departure date. Supporting documents requested early are subject to a $100 administration fee.
A Word About Tipping
For the on-tour convenience of some itineraries, we will collect all gratuities which is to be shared by our local team. This may include tour leaders, guides, drivers, baggage porters, airport coordinators, restaurant waiters for all included meals and other staff in the team behind the scenes.
Please remember that these gratuities are appreciated as recognition for excellent service and we thank you for your encouragement and generocity.
Infant/Baby
We don"t take any infants or babies under 2 years old for any of our tours.
Trip Cancellation and Eligible Refunds
Please ensure you have read the Trip Cancellation Policy in full and have not scrolled past or by-passed this section.
UTOvacation reserves the right to cancel or modify a tour prior to departure date. An alternative departure date will be offered for no extra charge should there be any travel restrictions, lock-downs imposed by governments, health organizations, travel bureaus. A full travel credit will be offered for future trip rebooking or rescheduling if there are extreme cases happening which are all beyond our control including but not limited to any global pandemics, regional epidemics, wars, or any other acts of god.
All passenger cancellation or change requests must be confirmed in written form by email or fax including your reservation number, full name and date of travel, cancellations will only be accepted in writing.
Any cancellation of the issued flight tickets before departure (all the segments are unused) would incur a penalty of a minium of USD 350.00 per ticket or the surface price of the ticket subject to the rules and regulations of airline company. A adminitration fee also applies. No refund will be available once travel has begun.
Cancellation terms will be applied based on the date that the written cancellation is received and based on the following dates prior to departure.
All reservations, except where specified:
Number of Days Prior to Departure | Cancellation Penalty (Per Person) |
180 days or above | $2000 as penalty |
90 - 179 days | $2000 + 30% of tour fare as penalty |
30 - 89 days | $2000 + 50% of tour fare as penalty |
0 - 29 days | 100% of the tour fare as the penalty |
No refund will be available on departure date and/or after the tour has commenced (Including denied and/or rejected by Immigration Department or Custom of destination or Cruise port terminal officer).
No refund or reimbursement will be available to passengers who voluntarily forego meals, cruise, tours and/or accommodations. A surcharge may apply should there be any additional fees occurred from services refused by the passengers. i.e. Since air ticket, cruise ticket, transportation, accommodation, and meals have to be arranged in advance during high season (i.e.Holidays, Special Events, and other important activities and conventions), no departure date changed is allowed. No refund will be available on departure date change and/or booking cancellation.
Any other charges, refunds or rebates caused by the acts of God, Force Majeure, natural disasters, fire, weather, governmental and local authority"s order, political change, strikes, war, riots, quarantine, custom regulations, damages or inquiry caused by accident is beyond the responsibility of UTOvacation and therefore, you agree to hold UTOvacation harmless and non-liable for any refunds or compensation outside of the previously defined refund structure. Furthermore, should the traveller violate any local/provincial or national laws during their travels, UTOvacation is not responsible or liable. By signing the agreement the client agrees to any offer of a voucher, future company credit, or alternative arrangements as determined by management at that time.
Should an outright travel ban be implemented by the departing or destination country/city, a full travel credit will be offered. Refunds will not be granted for pre-existing situations at the destination country at the time of the booking. Please note, should UTOvacation incur any unexpected costs from its suppliers, these costs would be subtracted from and balance/travel credit issued to the passenger.
Please note, any refundable amount will not include fees associated with Travel Visa’s which have already been issued or any services that have already been delivered or any incurred fees already charged by suppliers and such final refundable amount will be returned in the form of the original payment to the payer.
All reschedule tours are considered non-refundable; regular cancellation policy does not apply.
Optional programs and trip extensions
The pre-paid deposit/tour fare for any of the early bird deals or promotional packages is not refundable.
No Show
If for any reason, a passenger does not attend the scheduled daily activities during the tour, an additional supplement fee of 100USD per day will be applied. (Only applicable for China discounted tours)
Shopping During your Tour
Although we would be happy to assist your shopping needs, UTOvacation would not be responsible for price, quality, and service of any goods purchased during the tour.
Price Adjustments
After the booking is confirmed, if the price increased following the imposition of a surcharge on fuel by the carrier or an increase in the exchange rate, insofar as the exchange rate applicable before the date on which the services are provided has increased by more than 5% since the date on which the contract was entered into; and/or if the increase, without taking into account any increase in the provincial sales tax or USA Canada"s goods and services tax, raising taxes, royalties or reauthorized charges by a competent public authority, is equal to or greater than 7% of the price of services, you may choose between a full and immediate reimbursement of the services or the provision of similar services.(except for acts of God, wars, national strikes, travel restrictions, significant inflations, global pandemic or anything beyond our control)
Tour Adjustments
UTOvacation retains the right to adjust, modify or reschedule tours if deemed necessary.
UTOvacation also reserves the right to adjust your tour date or itinerary if it feels it is in the best interest of its passengers especially in cases that involve the health and safety. This may include minor adjustments like the timing of a scheduled tour attraction visit to a complete date modification.
UTOvacation will do its best to notify you of any such changes before your departure (Or as soon as possible if you have already departed).
Stipulations. Please note, UTOvacation does its’ best to fulfill its tour obligations. However, UTOvacation is not liable for scenarios which impact room availability, tour execution, separate fees or other elements of the tour that is enforced by third party entities such as local and federal authorities.
UTOvacation reserves the right to modify, reschedule the tour or issue a full travel credit to clients should there be any of the following situations occurring which are all beyond our control
1) Global/regional pandemics recognized by WHO/destination country health authority
2) Travel restrictions and protocols or lock-downs that are put in place imposed by local government or travel governing organizations
3) Flight cancellation or being unable to provide a full capacity by the airlines
4) Wars and strikes
5) Any other acts of God
An alternative departure date will be offered for no extra administration fees if clients wish to rebook the same package.
Cancellation policy applies if tour is requested to be cancelled by clients under the above situations.
A surcharge might incur imposed by the third party i.e. airlines, cruises, hotels, ground tour operators, any other service providers under the above situations.
Tour Credits
UTOvacation on some occasions may issue Travel Credits as either a reward or because of trip suspension.
Travel Credits may be used on any UTOvacation product except for Cruise packages, Travel visa, Flight ticket/First-class flight fare upgrades or
Please note: Travel credit will be applied should there be any cancellation/refund occurs if the tour/service has been paid by travel credit in the initial transaction.
Travel Seat Arrangements
Seating/Cabin assignment: UTOvacation has no power to control the seating selection on the aircraft or cabin location on the cruise (unless where specified). All the spots are arranged by the airline/cruise line group department or randomly selected by the computer system. Therefore, UTO vacation cannot help the customers to change, reserve, pre-assign seats/cabins.
Preferred Seat Upgrade: UTOvacation will not be responsible for any preferred seat upgrade on aircraft (except for business or first class seats). Some cruise packages allow the selection of cabins at the time of booking for an upgraded price; please refer to the product page for details.
Reservation Adjustments
Changes to an existing reservation by the passenger for whatever the cause, will incur a $299 per person charge plus any additional supplier fees. This includes name changes and removal of any services such as optional tours and transfers. The deposit and/or full payment for any optional feature that is on an early bird or special sale promotion is non-refundable and non-transferable.
*Please note that name changes to airline or cruise line reservations are subject to full cancellation or re-booking. See Airline Name Changes section for specific regulations.
Replacing a traveling passenger is subject to cancellation penalties and is not covered by this Reservation Changes policy.
Changes or additional requests after departure are subject to local rates at the time of amendment and must be paid directly by the passenger to the service provider. UTOvacation will make its best effort to minimize these costs, however, all payment will be payable by request of the local service providers.
There are no refunds for unused services.
Travel Insurance
UTOvacation strongly recommends all tour members to purchase travel insurance at the time of booking. UTOvacation does not directly offer Travel Insurance. The Travel Insurance recommended by UTOvacation are facilitated and owned by third party operators. Any Travel Insurance purchased by the passenger is governed by the third party and UTOvacation is not liable or responsible for said insurance.
Flight upgrade
Once we are done issuing your flight tickets, our ticketing department will send you an email to confirm the details in time. UTOvacation shall take no responsibilities if airlines change schedules or change routings afterwards and no refunds shall be commenced because of such alterations.
Baggage
Each airline company has its own rules and regulations with the baggage weight, size, and number. The best way to find out the rules and regulations is to go visit the airline company"s official website.
Please note, some destinations baggage is not included in the fare. Refer to your specific tour product page’s terms & conditions for specific baggage allowances.
Tour Fare Includes
Please refer to your tour itinerary for the most updated information
Tour Fare Excludes
Flight Package Description
Silver Flight Package ( Guaranteed maximum of one-stop/layover to your destination country gateway )
If your departure city has indirect flight(s) with only one stop/layover to connect your destination country gateway, we guarantee to provide you with flight with only one stop/layover to your destination country gateway if you select such package early enough before we issue the tickets.(Option and flight itinerary are subject to availability)
Gold Flight Package ( Guaranteed non-stop flight to your destination country gateway )
If your departure city has regular direct flight(s) to connect your destination country gateway, we guarantee to provide you with a non-stop flight to your destination country gateway if you select such package early enough before we issue the tickets. (Option and flight itinerary are subject to availability)
Vaccination
- Please be advised that the vaccination requirements are subject to change in each country and that it is the responsibility of the traveler and not UTOvacation to check about the requirements before the arrival of your destination.
- The World Health Organization (WHO) emphasizes that all travelers should be up to date with routine vaccinations. Following to that, travelers should check that they have been fully vaccinated against measles, rubella, mumps, diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis (whooping cough), poliomyelitis, and COVID-19 before starting their travel. Non-immunized or incompletely immunized travelers should be offered the routine vaccinations recommended in their national immunization schedules, in addition to those needed for international travel (e.g. yellow fever vaccine).
- The WHO recommends the following vaccinations for travelers to South America: hepatitis A, hepatitis B, typhoid, cholera, yellow fever, and rabies. Some routine vaccinations are also recommended, such as measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR), tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis (Tdap), influenza, chickenpox, shingles, pneumonia, meningitis, and polio.
- Proof of yellow fever vaccination may be required for some travelers, based on their specific itinerary. It is possible to find further details on the WHO website.
The extra cost of schedule delay caused by Air Flight cancellation or change will be undertaken by passengers themselves. The missed itineraries will not be re-arranged. During the tour or cruise, it will be considered as surrendering application automatically if you do not attend the pre-arranged tour or check in the prearranged hotel or cruise.
All the extra costs will be undertaken by the client voluntarily. UTOvacation reserves the right to abandon any clients if such clients violate the law or damage the interest of tour groups If a travel visa is denied for any reason either applied through UTOvacation Visa Service Center or applied on your own, the tour cancellation policy applies when cancellation of the tour is requested. UTOvacation holds no responsibilities for any denied Travel Visa application.
If a child, 18 years old or younger, is travelling abroad with only one parent/guardian, children MUST carry a notarized consent letter signed by non-accompanying parent/guardian. If a child, 18 years old or younger is travelling alone, children MUST carry a notarized consent letter signed by both parents/guardian. Such a consent letter may be requested by immigration authorities when entering or leaving from a foreign country or by North American officials when re-entering into USA or Canada. Failure of presenting such a document may result in the rejection of boarding aircraft or vessel for the children concerned.
Please note that some tour packages may require the compulsory gratuity which will be collected before your departure date. Failure to do so, UTOvacation reserves the right to cancel the booking (including all accommodations and flight arrangements)
Cruise lines reserve the right to cancel, modify or substitute any scheduled port of calls and the schedule at any time and for any reason whatsoever without prior notice due to the navigation authority and water conditions. Any additional expenses caused by the trip interruption should be paid by the customers, which includes but not limited to meals, transportation, hotel accommodations, personal expense, and lost baggage. UTOvacation shall not be liable for any loss to guests.
For children under 18 who will be occupying a bed, there will be an additional $100 supplement per child. Please note, this is only applicable to China discounted tours or any trip that includes China discounted tours.
Please note, there is a minimum attendant requirement (10 participants) for optional programs and Pre and Post tour extensions, UTOvacation reserves the right to cancel or modify optional programs and Pre and Post tour extensions prior to departure date.
Important
Passengers are required to settle the final payment and submit valid passport copies/ necessary documents before the deadline or immediately when the suppliers, airlines, hotels will be or are at a stop sale. Please note, after confirming such bookings, any cancellation, tour change, name change or travel credit converting are not allowed.
Safeguarding your payment(s) is our top priority. In order to prevent any rampant fraudulence or deception, we ask our customers to settle payment(s) through your account on UTOvacation official website at www.utovacation.com. Should you choose offline payment submission, Cheque/Money order/Bank draft/Credit card (with credit card authorization form filled out and signed) are accepted and the payee must be UTOvacation. Please be advised that UTOvacation has never been allowing Bank transfer/Email transfer for transactions and Cash is not recommended. If you find something suspicious regarding your payment, please call 1-855.526.1286 before any further actions.
Please note that the airline company provides all flight schedules. UTOvacation would not be held responsible or liable for any heavy layovers or arrival times that may affect your tour schedule. For example, if your flight arrives earlier than expected, your hotel accommodation may not be available for check-in. Likewise, you may arrive later than scheduled and early morning the next day. If you request a better flight schedule, please check out the flight upgrade services we provide.
Dispute Penalty
Please note, if a customer requires cancellation of a product or service, kindly reach out to UTOvcation customer service. If a customer files a dispute/chargeback directly with their bank, the order will be automatically canceled and suspended in your account.
If a customer wishes to reinstate their purchase or credit, they must pay a disputed penalty of $299 per transaction if the total payment amount exceeds $299; 50% of the total invoice amount if the amount is less than $299; all dispute penalties are per transaction. Chargeback fees, transaction fees, administration expenses, marketing/acquisition costs, and operations charges are all part of the disputed penalty. After you have reinstated your order and paid the disputed penalty, you will receive the travel credit. The travel credit can be used to book the same or different tours on our website. You will not be reinstated to your original order, and the amount you paid for that excursion will not be guaranteed.
Remarks:
1) UTOvacation reserves the right to impose relevant fuel/inflation surcharge if Brent Crude Oil Price Index or US/Canada Official CPI has jumped over 4% between your booking date and tour departure date.
2) UTOvacation usually sends out important notifications including but not limited to destination health protocols, travel industry policies, tour updates and safety alerts to our agents/customers by newsletter through email. We are not responsible for trip delay, service cancellation, price increase or any other types of loss caused by unsubscribing from our email list, wrong email address or a lack of checking email box/spam folder/junk folder on a regular basis. If you have not received our newsletter for a long time, make sure your email address is effective/valid and you are on our email list. OR contact us immediately at booking@utovacation.com for assistance.
UTO Worry-Free Plan
Regular (Complimentary):
1. By making an initial deposit in a timely manner, you will secure a vacation spot and avoid any future package/service price increase. Within the first 15 days after you put down the deposit, you may cancel at any time without a question asked and receive a full refund in the form of your payment less any incurred fees. (Only applicable 150/180 days before trip departure)
2. After 15 days of your deposit payment, you may still cancel your trip for any reason up to 150/180 days prior to your departure date and your deposit (non-refundable) will be converted to UTO future travel credit in full amount for 24 months. (If you cancel within 150/180 days before tour departure date, your deposit will be lost plus penalty as per terms and conditions.)
3. No administration fee is charged for name change / tour change / minor correction one time up to 150/180 days prior to your departure date (except for any additional cost / surcharge already occurred, if any, imposed by any third party. i.e., airline, cruise line)
4. There is an administration fee of $100-$299/person for any name change/tour change plus any additional cost / surcharge already occurred, if any, imposed by any third party. i.e., airline, cruise line, hotel, ground operator if you wish to make such change within 150/180 days before the tour starts.
5. If there are any force majeure events happening beyond the control of UTOvacation (Global pandemics, natural disasters, acts of terrorism, wars, strikes or travel restrictions etc.), your payment less any expenses already occurred will be converted to UTO future travel credit for 24 months.
6. If full payment is not received on the due date as per terms and conditions on our end, we will offer guests an extra 24 hours’ period before cancelling the reservation and imposing any penalties after the deadline time.
REMARKS:
- UTO Worry-Free Plan is complimentary for new bookings only and cannot be combined with any other similar promotions. The existing reservations are not applicable for the plan.
- Only itinerates with such icon UTO WorryFreePlan are applicable for UTO Worry-Free Plan.
- By purchasing UTO Worry-Free Plan, you understand that this program is non-refundable and non-transferable. Payments made by the customer will first be applied to UTO Worry-Free Plan and then to the remainder of the tour package.
- Value: reg $199-$999/person
Plus ($149/person):
In addition to the clauses above, extra benefits include the followings:
7. You are able to enjoy an extra 15 days period on top of the regular 15 days (total of 30 days) to cancel your tour without penalty after the initial deposit and receive a full refund in the form of your payment less any incurred fees. (Only applicable 150/180 days before trip departure)
8. If you sign up for any optional features, we guarantee you the early bird price even after the promotion is over (up to 150/180 days prior to departure date).
9. A complimentary $50/person credit will be deposited in your UTO Cash Back Program account for your next vacation journey.
10. Under the same category/type/price point/season, your hotel room or cruise cabin will be first assigned in your group for the selection of floor, location or view.
Premium ($249/person):
In addition to the clauses above, extra benefits include the followings:
11. You are able to enjoy an extra 30 days period on top of the regular 15 days (total of 45 days) to cancel your tour without penalty after the initial deposit and receive a full refund in the form of your payment less any incurred fees. (Only applicable 150/180 days before trip departure)
12. A complimentary $50/person cash rebate will be granted if you have purchased travel insurance from John Hancock or Manulife through our website.Remarks: Claim travel insurance cash rebate any time after your tour is finished with your full name and policy number at 1(855) 526-1286.
13. Able to extend our promotions for an extra 2 days (48 hours) after the campaigns are over. You may sit back and reserve discounted deals for your friends and family at your own pace.
14. Supporting document for visa application is provided for free of charge.
UTOvacation strongly recommends that you purchase travel insurance for any future travel plans.
We have curated two reputable partners one in the USA and one for Canada. Once you have made your trip selection, please select the option of purchasing travel insurance.
For USA patrons, in order to qualify for the “Cancel For Any Reason” Option offered by John Hancock, you will need to purchase your insurance within 14 days of your initial deposit. Other insurance policies may be purchased later.
Please note, the travel insurance that is available for purchase is with our affiliate partners and not a direct product or offering of UTOvacation. For any questions or concerns, please contact the vendor directly.
American Travel Insurance (click for more details)
Canadian Travel Insurance (click for more details)
Highly Recommended
Safe and Secure
Unbeatable Prices
Complete Service