Local children from a village in Mai Chau - smiling faces of Vietnam

Southeast Asia FAQ

What is a Junk boat?

A Junk is an ancient Chinese sailing vessel design still in use today. The simply rigged sea going vessels where designed by the Chinese boat builders of the Han Dynasty (206 BC–220 AD). The flat bottomed wooden boats, like the Sampan have no keel instead they rely upon a large rudder to prevent sideway slip in the water. The interiors traditionally panelled in soft wood or teak are equipped with a dining room, lounge, 5 – 12 fully equipped cabins and a number of bathrooms. Many junks have an alfresco dining area and all have deck space kitted with comfy loungers for sunning, relaxing and taking in the views.

Will I be travelling as part of a group?

Our Vietnam & Cambodia holidays are arranged and operated exclusively for you, on a departure date of your choice. When travelling between cities and villages you (and your private party of relatives or friends) will be escorted by a representative/driver. Then upon arrival to your destination you will meet with our local English speaking tour guide who will conduct your sightseeing of the region. Our holidays are suitable for solo travellers, couples or small private groups; accommodation, transportation, sightseeing and local guides are fully arranged.

Are your holidays to Vietnam and Cambodia suitable for children

We welcome children of any age, accompanied by a parent or guardian on our tailor-made holidays to the region. In Santubong Peninsula the boutique village house we use is for over 16 year olds only.

What is the best time of year to travel to Vietnam & Cambodia?

Ultimately Vietnam can be visited year round. November to March is the best time to travel, though if you don't mind an afternoon burst of rain visit from April through to October where there are less tourists and prices are more competative. The ideal time to visit Camdobia is between October and March. April can also be pleasant. The south western monsoons arrive in May and carries up to 80% of the country's rainfall.

Sunshine or Rain?

Vietnam sits within tropical and sub tropical climate zones. The South (Hoi Chi Minh City to Phan Thiet)is hot year round. The wet season lasts from May till October and you can expect a heavy shower once a day. The dry season comes in November where you'll be blessed with sunshine (and some humidity) right the way through to April the following year. The centre (Nhe Trang to Hue) for most of the year is bathed in beautiful sunshine. Expect heavy showers in November and December and some typhoon activity from mid October to mid December The north (Hanoi to Sapa) has less or wet/dry season extreme. Summer lasts from May till October where temperatures range between 30 - 35, humidity is high and an afternoon shower is common. In the winter temperatures range between 10 - 15 degrees with the odd afternoon drizzle.