Frequently Asked Questions - and Answers

Are flights and transfer included?

The trip does not include flights - you will need to arrange these yourself, but it does include transfers. The Da Nang airport pick-up and drop off times work well for the Singapore Airways flights that connect to Air New Zealand flights via Singapore.  There are several other international and domestic airlines using Da Nang Airport.

Can we have airport transfers on other days and times?

The trip only includes Da Nang airport transfers on the start and end days and times described.  If you are travelling independently then Vietnam uses the ‘Grab’ App which provides a great value ‘Uber-like’ service.   We may be able to collect and drop you off elsewhere in Da Nang if that coincides with the transfer times.

How long are the transfers?

Great question, the longest transfer you will have will be from Da Nang Airport to the wellness retreat.  This can be around two and a half hours, all other transfers are much shorter.  We will be providing comfortable an air-conditioned vehicles for all transfers.

I’ve not been to Vietnam before and I’m a nervous traveller – any advice?

Our best advice is to travel with a friend.  If travelling from NZ then the journey via Singapore is very simple, an overnight flight to Singapore and a couple of hours to find the Departure Gate for the Da Nang flight – which probably includes an inter-terminal shuttle train.   Singapore Airport is a vast shopping centre complete with Lulu Lemon and every other brand store you can imagine - your biggest challenge is to your wallet!  As you remain in the terminals there are no Immigration or luggage formalities in Singapore.  From Australia you have flight options direct to Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) and a short internal flight to Da Nang.  My partner describes Vietnam as ‘chaotically efficient’, it is a vibrant country that welcomes visitors from around the world – especially NZ, Australia and the United States.

Do I need local money, do I tip?

Our trip includes all accommodation, and most meals.  International credit / debit cards are widely accepted and work in local ATMs. With NZ$1 being Vietnamese Dong 15,000 working out the exchange rate can be challenging.  We do encourage you to enjoy bartering in markets and to recognise excellent service with tips in local currency - VND100,000 is around NZ$7.

Can I pay you in other currencies?

We have priced the trip in New Zealand Dollars (NZ$), but we can accept payments in Australian and US Dollars and British Pounds.  We’ll just need to advise you on the exchange rates for each payment.

Do I need a Visa?

Many travellers – including those travelling on NZ, Australian or US Passport need E-Visas.  Our trip includes the US$25 fee for an E-Visa and our Vietnamese partner will submit the application on your behalf.  For an E-Visa we will need copies of your Passport, entry and exit dates and locations and other information.  As always, we recommend at least six months validity from your arrival date, and also that you check on any special requirements before you book and travel.  We are not responsible or liable for any traveller who is not permitted to enter Vietnam.  Depending on where you transit through you may also need a Visa in that country.

Can I come earlier or stay later.

Yes, you are free to make your own plans.  As we are working with a registered Vietnamese tourism company, we can also assist you if you want a longer stay in Vietnam, contact us with your ideas.

As you transit one of Asia’s famed cities why not book a stopover on your way home? Sip a Singapore Sling in Raffles’ Long Bar, explore the skyscrapers of Kuala Lumpa, or walk around iconic and thought-provoking palaces and museums in Ho Chi Minh city.

What will the weather be like?

Vietnam is northern hemisphere, and July and August are the hottest months.  Our trip is in the shoulder season of early September – before the Monsoon Season - so expect heat, sunshine and some local rain – pack clothes that are light and can quickly dry.

I’ve not done yoga before – can I still come?

Yoga is a journey that we are all on.  My classes are structured to allow yogis to go just as far as they are able.  At the retreat you will have time and be in a place to explore yoga at your own pace.  There are also many other wellness and growth activities to try – how about a spa treatment, Tai Chi, the high ropes challenge or even zip line?

Is there a discount if my partner does not do yoga?

There is so much to do during the six days at the wellness retreat that we are sure your partner will enjoy.  The rates quoted do not change if your partner chooses not attend the yoga sessions.

Do I need to bring my yoga mat?

No, we will provide mats, blocks, straps and bolsters.  So, you can travel light.  If you have a favourite mat, then of course bring that along – it’s all about feeling comfortable.

Tell me about the Onsen Baths

These are traditional Japanese Onsen pools with a mix of hot, warm and cold baths, hot room and sauna – and togs (swimmers) are not worn.  There are plenty of towels available and there is a male and female Onsen suite.  Guests book a time so you can be assured that there won’t be more than a few people in each suite.   When I checked them I shared the suite - but not the pools - with others.  

There are also other (togs required) pools; the hot spring stream in particular is amazing with temperatures from 43-32 (C) is beautiful to drift down….

Can I book a ‘twin shared’ by myself and you give a room mate?

As we are together for ten nights, we will not pair people who do not know each other in a twin shared room.   You are, of course, able to secure a twin shared room when the two of you book together.

What if my twin share or double partner cancels?

In this case the person who still comes will either need to bring an alternate person or pay the difference between the twin share / double and the sole occupancy rate.  This varies on the accommodation option chosen.

Can my partner only join me for the Cultural Tour?

We believe that the wellness retreat part will be unmissable so encourage you both to attend the whole trip.  We do recognise that that may not be possible, in which case contact us, and we will add your partner onto the Cultural Tour only.  The sole occupancy rate will apply for the time there is just one of you and the double when together.  If that happens, they will need to make their own arrangements to meet us in Hue.

Is the food of the trip vegetarian / vegan and can you cater for dietary requirements?

Ann Maree is vegetarian and can vouch for the superb quality of the food on offer.  We will always ensure that there are vegetarian options available.  Much Vietnamese food can also be vegan.  Do advise us of any dietary requirements at the time of booking so we can make suitable arrangements.  For omnivores Ann Maree’s partner can vouch for the superb quality of all the animal and seafood based meals!

Can I drink the water?

That’s a great question – everywhere in Vietnam you will be offered water and ice – and we strongly recommend that you use this rather than tap water.  Boiled and water used in cooking is safe.

Do I need to tell you of any health issues and do I need Travel Insurance?

We want to make this trip the very best we can for you.  Therefore, in confidence, we do ask you to share any health issues that may affect you during the activities that we are offering so we can advise you about any particular activities that may be challenging for you.  

You need to arrange your own Travel Insurance and we recommended to take out suitable travel insurance to cover any medical events and other matters.