FAQ’s

Do I need a visa?
Thailand will give you a visa when we arrive. There is no cost and no forms to fill out. Vietnam requires us to complete an online visa at least 5 days before we leave. The cost is $US25 and it must be done in time and also must be correct OR you will not be allowed to board your plane in Australia. Please note there are many scam visa sites, so make sure you use this link!!!        https://evisa.xuatnhapcanh.gov.vn/trang-chu-ttdt
Is the tour suitable for ‘older’ people?
The average age of guests is above 60, so yes. We move slowly and take regular breaks, some parts of the tour are on rocky or muddy ground, but you can just sit them out if need be. As long as you can walk 10 000 steps per day, you should be fine, if in doubt please call us to discuss.
How much is the tour and what does it include?
The price starts at $2 700 for 15 nights in Thailand and Vietnam starts at $2 900. This includes internal flights in Thailand or Vietnam, all accommodation and all transfers to airports and hotels. It does not cover taxis, public transport, meals or drinks.
Is it safe?
Yes! My sister and I have never felt in danger on any of our trips. We follow normal safety precautions and do not visit any dangerous areas. You should check www.smarttraveller.gov.au before you go for advice.
How do I get to Bangkok?
I can help advise on flights and dates to arrive. I will meet you at the airport in Bangkok. Remember you can sometimes arrive early If I am already in Bangkok, or stay longer after the tour. It is a good idea to discuss this with me before you book your flights.
Do I need any vaccinations?
Talk to your doctor three months before you plan to leave.
What if I am not interested in gemstones?
Whilst the tours are ‘gem themed’ we also do lots of ‘non gem’ activities. Shopping and food figure prominently and if you have any special interests, just ask and we can usually accommodate you. Examples include cooking classes, watching sport, fishing, yoga, day spas and optional day tours.
What Star Rating hotels do we stay in?

Star ratings really aren’t a thing in Asia. We stay in small family run hotels that are clean and tidy. We usually book the same hotels every year so know what to expect. At a minimum your room will have Air Conditioning, a private bathroom, television and WIFI. If anything isn’t to your liking, please tell me and I will try to fix it..

Do I need Travel Insurance?

Yes! Travel insurance is REQUIRED. If anything happens, I will get you to hospital, contact your insurer, next of kin and the Australian Embassy, BUT the tour must go on. I recommend at a minimum, full health cover (including repatriation) and cancellation cover, in case the tour needs to be cancelled.If something happens to me, the tour ends as I am a sole operator! I also reserve the right to cancel the tour at any time for any reason.

Does the itinerary ever change?

Yes, The itinerary is subject to change depending on circumstances that may be out of my control, such as weather or flight cancellations. We can also change the tour if the group decides they do not want to do an activity. There are many optional activities you can choose to do or not.

Do I need to bring a credit card

Yes.Bring a credit card for emergencies. You can’t widely use them, but they are handy to have. There are also very low daily ATM limits and there is a cost to use them.

Is it best to bring cash or Travel cards?

Cash. Don’t change any money in Australia. We organise all that when we land. Bring TWICE as much as you think you need. Travel cards are expensive to use and small daily ATM limits apply.

Do you help us decide what to buy?

I have a saying, ‘If you see it and you like it and the price is right, buy it, as we are not coming back’ If you ask me ‘Should I buy this?’ I will ALWAYS say yes, unless it is overpriced. I can certainly help you decide if gemstones or jewellery are overpriced.

How do I book a tour?

All you need to do is contact me and I’ll put you on the list. Three months before we are due to go, you pay a NON REFUNDABLE deposit, as I start booking accommodation and airfares. The balance is due 8 weeks before we travel. If more than 8 people book, I contact guests in the order they booked, so first in best dressed! You are under non obligation until the non refundable deposit is due, so book early and then you can change your mind.

What if I have other questions?

Please feel free to ask any and all questions. Andrew 0448 190 538, or andrewt1963@gmail.com or if you are in Brisbane, we can meet for coffee and a chat.