Recognizing the difficulties and frustrations involved in trip planning, we’ve included this FAQ page to address some of the most commonly asked questions about our tours.
Our goal is to provide you with all the necessary information to help you feel confident and enthusiastic about joining us on a vegan adventure!
If the answer to your query can’t be found on this page, please don’t hesitate to contact us via our contact page.
We’re always delighted to learn more about your needs and address any additional questions you may have.
It’s a fair question, and one we’d ask ourselves too. In fact, it was the first thing Jean, our very first customer, brought up. (You can meet Jean and hear her story here.)
Here's why you can trust GoVegan Travel.
While GoVegan Travel is a new name, our experience in crafting exceptional tours is anything but. Martin, our co-founder, brings over 30 years of expertise in managing and building tours across Southeast Asia, Japan, India, Nepal, Turkey, Morocco, Spain, and beyond. Before GoVegan, he honed his skills with highly respected small-group operators like Tucan Travel (UK), Nomadic Tours (UK), and Ventura Travel (Germany).
Over the past three decades, Martin has personally overseen every aspect of tour operations, from intricate contract negotiations and on-the-ground logistics to handling emergency situations and leading countless tours himself. His wife and business partner, Ae, is Thai and expertly manages company administration and communications throughout Thailand and Southeast Asia.
GoVegan Travel is a UK-registered company, led by Martin and Ae, who are both based full-time in Southeast Asia. Unlike many in the travel industry, we don’t outsource to third-party Destination Management Companies (DMCs). We believe in a hands-on approach: every tour is personally designed and meticulously planned by us. We visit every location, meet every supplier in person, and only partner with trusted, genuinely vegan-friendly establishments. From your initial inquiry to your final group dinner, we orchestrate every detail. This direct approach means no middlemen and no hidden costs passed on to you. While we manage and plan every aspect, we work with a trusted network of local suppliers, tour directors, and expert guides who take care of everything during the trip, making your journey truly exceptional.
We've intentionally chosen to keep our operations small. We're not focused on rapid scaling or cutting corners. Our priority is delivering a deeply personal and meticulously cared-for travel experience.
While our GoVegan reviews are still growing, we do have valuable feedback from travelers who toured with Martin before. Many have stayed in touch over the years and enthusiastically supported us in launching GoVegan Travel. You’ll find a few of their comments below, including those posted on Google.
Every successful business starts somewhere, and we’re no different. We know that launching a new venture in the age of online reviews can present challenges. However, we're committed to being open and honest in every aspect of our business, as you’ll see across our website, including genuine photos of Martin on tour with his groups. We're confident that our commitment to providing an exceptional travel experience will be evident right from your very first contact with us.
You’ll find clear and easy ways to book a return call throughout our website. Martin is always happy to connect by phone or video to answer any questions, big or small. He’s an open book – no scripts, no rehearsed lines, just honest answers, face to face. (You can book a call here.)
We founded GoVegan Travel because we recognized that most group tours still treat plant-based travelers as an afterthought, or worse, an inconvenience. We knew we could do better by prioritizing genuine care, incredible local vegan food, and a travel experience with no compromises.
We may be a new company, but we are highly experienced, personally proven, and fully dedicated to making every tour personal and unforgettable.
Just because you're vegan doesn’t mean you don’t want, or need, a little freedom and space from time to time.
We’re all about giving you flexibility, not boxing you into a rigid schedule. Here’s what that means:
We include all breakfasts and some group meals. Every evening, your Tour Leader organises a group dinner for those who want to join. It's totally optional, so you can come along if you fancy and just pay for what you eat and drink, or do your own thing when you feel like a change.
We want to give you the opportunity to experience the local vegan scene on your own terms, not just eat at pre-chosen spots. We provide free interactive maps packed with vegan places we’ve personally tried and tested, so you’re never stuck for ideas.
We understand that all-inclusive packages offer a degree of ease and convenience. But in practice, they often mean higher, inflated prices and meals at fixed times in pre-arranged restaurants that may not always suit you. In places like Asia, you can enjoy amazing meals for just a few dollars. Why pay extra upfront only to lose the freedom to eat where and when you choose?
And remember, our non-included group meals are always optional, so the choice is yours every evening.
Ordering something you can’t pronounce. Finding a local gem by chance. Trying a vegan version of a dish you’ve never had before. That’s what travel is all about. We don’t want to take that away, but we also understand that everyone is different, so this way you have both options without the extra cost.
We’re here when you need us, and we step back when you don’t. That balance is what makes our tours a little bit different.
Absolutely!
Our group tours are perfect for solo travellers who want to meet like-minded people. Many of our guests travel alone and leave with new friends. We focus on creating a friendly, welcoming atmosphere.
As a solo traveller, you can choose a private room or opt for a shared twin room with someone of the same gender. Plus, group tours naturally attract sociable, friendly people, so you’ll feel right at home.
Relaxed, friendly, and low-pressure. Most people join our tours because they want to travel with like-minded people, not be herded around or talked at.
Some customers are outgoing, some more introverted, but everyone shares the same values and respect for others. There’s space for group connection and solo downtime – no one’s expected to be “on” all the time.
We don’t do loud party tours, and we don’t do forced fun.
Definitely!
Whether you’re vegan, vegetarian, or just curious about plant-based travel – whether you're ethically vegan or plant-based for health reasons, you’re welcome.
We know that not everyone travels solo – so if you’re bringing a non-vegan friend, partner, or family member, that’s great too. Our tours are a chance to travel together in a way that’s thoughtful, inclusive, and fully vegan, while still ensuring that the food is a highlight, not something to worry about.
We just ask that you don’t bring or eat non-vegan food around the group, out of respect for others on the tour. And while questions are fine, this isn’t the place for debates about veganism – everyone’s here to relax, connect, and enjoy the experience.
It’s all about keeping the vibe positive and supportive for everyone.
Like the average age of the average vegan, this will always vary.
Our tours are open to adults of all ages, and we aim to create a friendly, welcoming vibe no matter where you’re at in life. Whether you’re in your 20s, 60s, or somewhere in between, you won’t feel out of place.
We focus more on shared values and attitude than age. If you’re open-minded, respectful, and up for a bit of adventure, you’ll fit right in.
Our tours are designed to be relaxed and accessible, and are suitable for most people. You won’t need to be super fit – most trips involve some walking, light exploring, and occasional changes in transport.
That said, heat and humidity can make things feel more tiring, especially in tropical countries. We always build in downtime, use hotels with lifts wherever possible, and choose accommodations in accessible locations so you’re not stuck walking up steep hills or far from the action.
If you have mobility concerns, let us know before booking. Where possible, we’ll do our best to offer alternative options – for example, using a taxi instead of a tuk tuk. In some cases, this might involve extra costs, but we’ll always be upfront about it.
We keep our groups small with no more than 15 people plus one or two guides/leaders.
This makes the experience more personal and gives everyone space to feel included. It also helps the group bond as a whole, rather than splitting into cliques or sub-groups.
From experience, once you go over 15, it’s harder for the tour leader to keep that friendly group dynamic going – and that’s something we care about a lot.
Yes, of course. You’re welcome to arrive before the tour starts or stay on afterwards.
We can either book the same accommodation for you as part of your package or suggest accommodation and help with local logistics if you need advice. Just let us know what you’re thinking.
We don't offer tailor-made private tours for individuals or couples, but we can arrange private tours based on our own tour itinerary.
If you're interested in a private version of one of our existing itineraries, please get in touch through our Contact page
Our tours are designed to run as full itineraries, and partial bookings aren't encouraged. If you have specific circumstances, get in touch and we’ll let you know if there's a way to make it work.
If you do need to arrive late or leave early, this is possible but we are unable to refund for part tours not taken and any costs for additional transport would be your own responsibility
It’s a fair question, and one we’d ask ourselves too. In fact, it was the first thing Jean, our very first customer, brought up. (You can meet Jean and hear her story here.)
Here’s why you can trust GoVegan Travel.
While GoVegan Travel is a new name, our experience in crafting exceptional tours is anything but. Martin, our co-founder, brings over 30 years of expertise in managing and building tours across Southeast Asia, Japan, India, Nepal, Turkey, Morocco, Spain, and beyond. Before GoVegan, he honed his skills with highly respected small-group operators like Tucan Travel (UK), Nomadic Tours (UK), and Ventura Travel (Germany).
Over the past three decades, Martin has personally overseen every aspect of tour operations, from intricate contract negotiations and on-the-ground logistics to handling emergency situations and leading countless tours himself. His wife and business partner, Ae, is Thai and expertly manages company administration and communications throughout Thailand and Southeast Asia.
GoVegan Travel is a UK-registered company, led by Martin and Ae, who are both based full-time in Southeast Asia. Unlike many in the travel industry, we don’t outsource to third-party Destination Management Companies (DMCs). We believe in a hands-on approach: every tour is personally designed and meticulously planned by us. We visit every location, meet every supplier in person, and only partner with trusted, genuinely vegan-friendly establishments. From your initial inquiry to your final group dinner, we orchestrate every detail. This direct approach means no middlemen and no hidden costs passed on to you. While we manage and plan every aspect, we work with a trusted network of local suppliers, tour directors, and expert guides who take care of everything during the trip, making your journey truly exceptional.
We’ve intentionally chosen to keep our operations small. We’re not focused on rapid scaling or cutting corners. Our priority is delivering a deeply personal and meticulously cared-for travel experience.
While our GoVegan reviews are still growing, we do have valuable feedback from travelers who toured with Martin before. Many have stayed in touch over the years and enthusiastically supported us in launching GoVegan Travel. You’ll find a few of their comments below, including those posted on Google.
Every successful business starts somewhere, and we’re no different. We know that launching a new venture in the age of online reviews can present challenges. However, we’re committed to being open and honest in every aspect of our business, as you’ll see across our website, including genuine photos of Martin on tour with his groups. We’re confident that our commitment to providing an exceptional travel experience will be evident right from your very first contact with us.
You’ll find clear and easy ways to book a return call throughout our website. Martin is always happy to connect by phone or video to answer any questions, big or small. He’s an open book – no scripts, no rehearsed lines, just honest answers, face to face. (You can book a call here.)
We founded GoVegan Travel because we recognized that most group tours still treat plant-based travelers as an afterthought, or worse, an inconvenience. We knew we could do better by prioritizing genuine care, incredible local vegan food, and a travel experience with no compromises.
We may be a new company, but we are highly experienced, personally proven, and fully dedicated to making every tour personal and unforgettable.
Just because you’re vegan doesn’t mean you don’t want, or need, a little freedom and space from time to time.
We’re all about giving you flexibility, not boxing you into a rigid schedule. Here’s what that means:
We include all breakfasts and some group meals. Every evening, your Tour Leader organises a group dinner for those who want to join. It’s totally optional, so you can come along if you fancy and just pay for what you eat and drink, or do your own thing when you feel like a change.
We want to give you the opportunity to experience the local vegan scene on your own terms, not just eat at pre-chosen spots. We provide free interactive maps packed with vegan places we’ve personally tried and tested, so you’re never stuck for ideas.
We understand that all-inclusive packages offer a degree of ease and convenience. But in practice, they often mean higher, inflated prices and meals at fixed times in pre-arranged restaurants that may not always suit you. In places like Asia, you can enjoy amazing meals for just a few dollars. Why pay extra upfront only to lose the freedom to eat where and when you choose?
And remember, our non-included group meals are always optional, so the choice is yours every evening.
Ordering something you can’t pronounce. Finding a local gem by chance. Trying a vegan version of a dish you’ve never had before. That’s what travel is all about. We don’t want to take that away, but we also understand that everyone is different, so this way you have both options without the extra cost.
We’re here when you need us, and we step back when you don’t. That balance is what makes our tours a little bit different.
Absolutely!
Our group tours are perfect for solo travellers who want to meet like-minded people. Many of our guests travel alone and leave with new friends. We focus on creating a friendly, welcoming atmosphere.
As a solo traveller, you can choose a private room or opt for a shared twin room with someone of the same gender. Plus, group tours naturally attract sociable, friendly people, so you’ll feel right at home.
Relaxed, friendly, and low-pressure. Most people join our tours because they want to travel with like-minded people, not be herded around or talked at.
Some customers are outgoing, some more introverted, but everyone shares the same values and respect for others. There’s space for group connection and solo downtime – no one’s expected to be “on” all the time.
We don’t do loud party tours, and we don’t do forced fun.
Definitely!
Whether you’re vegan, vegetarian, or just curious about plant-based travel – whether you’re ethically vegan or plant-based for health reasons, you’re welcome.
We know that not everyone travels solo – so if you’re bringing a non-vegan friend, partner, or family member, that’s great too. Our tours are a chance to travel together in a way that’s thoughtful, inclusive, and fully vegan, while still ensuring that the food is a highlight, not something to worry about.
We just ask that you don’t bring or eat non-vegan food around the group, out of respect for others on the tour. And while questions are fine, this isn’t the place for debates about veganism – everyone’s here to relax, connect, and enjoy the experience.
It’s all about keeping the vibe positive and supportive for everyone.
Like the average age of the average vegan, this will always vary.
Our tours are open to adults of all ages, and we aim to create a friendly, welcoming vibe no matter where you’re at in life. Whether you’re in your 20s, 60s, or somewhere in between, you won’t feel out of place.
We focus more on shared values and attitude than age. If you’re open-minded, respectful, and up for a bit of adventure, you’ll fit right in.
Our tours are designed to be relaxed and accessible, and are suitable for most people. You won’t need to be super fit – most trips involve some walking, light exploring, and occasional changes in transport.
That said, heat and humidity can make things feel more tiring, especially in tropical countries. We always build in downtime, use hotels with lifts wherever possible, and choose accommodations in accessible locations so you’re not stuck walking up steep hills or far from the action.
If you have mobility concerns, let us know before booking. Where possible, we’ll do our best to offer alternative options – for example, using a taxi instead of a tuk tuk. In some cases, this might involve extra costs, but we’ll always be upfront about it.
We keep our groups small with no more than 15 people plus one or two guides/leaders.
This makes the experience more personal and gives everyone space to feel included. It also helps the group bond as a whole, rather than splitting into cliques or sub-groups.
From experience, once you go over 15, it’s harder for the tour leader to keep that friendly group dynamic going – and that’s something we care about a lot.
Yes, of course. You’re welcome to arrive before the tour starts or stay on afterwards.
We can either book the same accommodation for you as part of your package or suggest accommodation and help with local logistics if you need advice. Just let us know what you’re thinking.
We don’t offer tailor-made private tours for individuals or couples, but we can arrange private tours based on our own tour itinerary.
If you’re interested in a private version of one of our existing itineraries, please get in touch through our Contact page
Our tours are designed to run as full itineraries, and partial bookings aren’t encouraged. If you have specific circumstances, get in touch and we’ll let you know if there’s a way to make it work.
If you do need to arrive late or leave early, this is possible but we are unable to refund for part tours not taken and any costs for additional transport would be your own responsibility
We aim to use smaller, locally run hotels that offer comfort, character, and a more personal experience. However, in some locations – particularly in Asia – smaller hotels may have limited breakfast facilities, which can make consistent vegan options harder to guarantee.
In all cases, we aim for a 4-star standard or equivalent in comfort and service.
Fully vegan hotels are rare, but when available and up to standard, we prioritise them. Otherwise, we work closely with hotel teams to ensure they understand the needs of a vegan group and can provide balanced, varied, and satisfying plant-based meals.
If we find the ideal hotel in the perfect location but the breakfast offering isn’t suitable, we may choose to provide breakfast (or another meal) at a nearby vegan-friendly café or restaurant instead.
While we make every effort to avoid it, minor cross-contamination can occur in non-vegan kitchens. We choose our partners carefully and brief them thoroughly, but it’s something to be aware of when travelling in non-vegan regions.
Wi-Fi is usually available at hotels and many cafés. Mobile signals are generally very reliable in cities and towns, but may be weaker in rural or remote areas.
If you’d like consistent access, we recommend getting a local SIM card on arrival or an eSIM – we can help you sort this out once you arrive.
Yes – arrival transfers are included to make things easy when you land.
We’ll meet you at the airport (as long as it matches the tour’s starting point) and take you by private vehicle to the joining hotel.
If other travellers are on the same flight and tour, you may share the ride – but only in that case.
We don’t include departure transfers, mainly to save you money. Local taxis and minivans from the final hotel are cheap and easy, and your tour leader can help arrange one at no extra cost.
Any flights that are part of the tour (like domestic or regional legs) are fully included – with a luggage allowance of 15–20kg. We always recommend packing light.
We don’t include international flights to or from the tour – that way, you’re free to choose your own route, airline, dates, and cabin class to suit your needs.
Need help planning? Just ask. We’re happy to suggest routes or give advice if you’re unsure.
It depends on your nationality and the destination – visa rules vary and can change without warning.
We strongly recommend checking with the relevant embassy or consulate in your home country well in advance of travel.
If you’d prefer help with the process, there are reputable visa agencies online that can arrange it for you (for a fee, of course).
Fair question. It’s not every day a travel company doesn’t ask for money up front.
Here’s the deal – we’re more interested in making sure the tour is a good fit for you than grabbing your card details. That means checking it suits your travel style, expectations, and the group vibe. And of course, making sure a vegan group tour is what you’re really looking for.
You can reserve your spot for free for up to 7 days. No payment. No card details. Just your name and email, which we only use to confirm your reservation.
This will give you time to think about it, chat with your partner or arrange a chat with us to ask any questions you may have, safe in the knowledge that your place will still be there when you decide. If you have any questions, feel free to get in touch by email, message or by requesting us to call you back.
To confirm your tour, we ask for a minimal deposit of $250 per person, paid at the time of booking
The remainder is due 75 days before the tour starts.
Payments are processed in US Dollars, but you can choose to pay in other currencies on the payment page if that’s easier for you.
Need a payment plan? Just let us know – we’ll walk you through the options.
Yes. If you’d prefer to spread the cost, we can set up a simple payment plan after your deposit is paid. Just let us know at the time of booking and we’ll explain your options.
There are no added fees or hidden charges, and we’ll work with you to find something that fits. We just ask that the full balance is paid before the due date.
In some cases, we can even arrange for up to 50% of the full cost to be paid on arrival. Just reach out and we’ll be happy to discuss the options.
The full balance is due 75 days before the tour starts.
Payment plans are available if you’d prefer to spread the cost – just ask, and we’ll talk you through it.
We can also arrange for up to 50% of the total cost to be paid locally on arrival.
It’s quick and easy.
At any time, you’re welcome to arrange a quick call or video chat (totally optional) if you’ve got questions or want help deciding.
Certainly! We’d love to have a chat and answer any questions you may have. A quick chat gives you the opportunity to check that the tour matches your expectations, ask any questions, raise any concerns, and make sure a vegan group tour is really what you’re looking for.
We’re happy to chat by email, message or we can call you back for a phone or video chat. See our contact page for all options
A really important question, and one that not enough people actually consider!
Let’s face it, life can sometimes give you lemons, and at times even the most exciting travel plans need to shift. If you find yourself in the position where you or someone in your group needs to cancel your trip, don’t worry, we’re here to help guide you through it.
Like every travel company, we do have our Booking Conditions. We’ve tried to keep these to a minimum and as simple as possible. You can find them at this link: Booking Conditions.
Our absolute top tip here is travel insurance! It’s a compulsory requirement for your booking. We really, really recommend getting comprehensive cancellation insurance as soon as you book. Do not leave it until closer to your travel dates, and make sure to include cancellation coverage. Look for policies that cover “cancel for any reason” or even “change of mind”. This is your easily available safety net if anything unexpected pops up!
Importantly, and something we can’t really put into the Booking Conditions as it can’t always be guaranteed, is that should you need to cancel but are able to travel at a later date, we will work with you and do everything possible to facilitate a change of tour for you. Usually with only a small administrative fee and any difference in the cost of the new trip.
The first thing to do would be to let us know as soon as you know! Just pop us an email at hello@govegantravel.com. We can’t consider a cancellation request until we receive a written confirmation from you.
If you need to cancel and will not be travelling again in the future, we’re afraid that the following fees will apply. However, if we are able to fill the tour, we will refund as much of your costs as we are able, regardless of the fees shown below.
It’s also worth noting that if you do not join the trip on time, leave it before it is completed, or join it after it has already started, it isn’t possible to provide refunds for any unused services.
We hope this gives you a clearer picture. We’re always here to chat if you have more questions!
Please see our detailed answer at the top of the page in the General Info section. Or click the link below
Why don’t you include all meals like some other vegan group tours do?
We work closely with trusted restaurants, cafes, and food vendors that either specialise in vegan food or have a strong understanding of plant-based requirements.
Where possible, we prioritise fully vegan venues. When that’s not an option, we only use places that we’ve personally vetted or that come highly recommended by our local vegan partners. Our team works directly with staff to explain ingredient requirements, cooking methods, and the importance of avoiding animal products – not just in the food, but in sauces, broths, and oils too.
Your tour leader is always on hand to double-check orders, translate where needed, and help with any questions you have along the way.
We take this seriously – because we know how frustrating it can be to constantly explain yourself or worry about what’s on your plate.
All our tours are fully vegan-friendly – no awkward questions, no compromises.
Every included meal is 100% vegan. We also partner with local vegan and vegan-friendly restaurants, so you’ll always have great options, even when meals aren’t included. You’ll get a list of tried-and-tested spots for snacks, cafes, and standout meals along the way.
But it’s not just about the food. We only work with trusted, ethical businesses that share our values – no animal performances, no exploitative wildlife attractions. Instead, we support sanctuaries, community-run projects, and responsible local operators.
You’ll also be travelling with like-minded people, so the whole experience feels easy, open, and genuinely enjoyable from day one.
Sadly, we live and travel in a world where plant-based lifestyles are still a minority. Vegan hotels are not always available, and even vegan restaurants can be hard to find.
When we choose our hotels, location is key – especially having vegetarian and vegan options close by. This ensures that plant-based meals are always within easy reach. Buffet breakfasts usually include some vegan options, though these can vary depending on the day or season.
While cross-contamination in non-vegan hotels or restaurants is possible, we work closely with our partners to make sure ingredients align with a vegan lifestyle wherever we go.
Our priority is providing fully vegan meals throughout the tour – and in some destinations, that alone can be challenging.
That said, we’ll always do our best to accommodate additional dietary needs like gluten-free, nut-free, or soy-free, where possible. Just let us know before booking so we can check what’s realistic for that specific tour.
If you have a serious allergy or medical restriction, we’ll be upfront about what we can and can’t guarantee – and we’ll do everything we can to support you.
At the moment out current tours are not generally suitable for specific WFPB, SOS-free diets.
Our meals reflect the local cuisine and aim to be tasty and varied, while still being fully vegan. Consequently, dishes may contain certain oils, coconut milk, or salts.
We are looking at introducing more specific dietary tours including specifically WPFB SOS-free in the future so please watch out for these.
If you follow a very strict eating style, please get in touch before booking so we can advise.
All our tours are fully vegan, but if you have any extra dietary needs, we need to know before you book.
Let us know the details — what you can’t eat, how strict it is, and any cross-contamination concerns. We’ll check with our hotels and restaurant partners and let you know what’s realistic. Last-minute requests after booking might be tricky to accommodate.
The honest answer is – Maybe.
Severe allergies or medical conditions must be advised before booking so we can check with our partners. Even then, full assurance isn’t always possible and will depend on the changes we need to make to the tour and how this may affect the rest of the group. Additionally, mistakes and cross-contamination in kitchens and buffets that are beyond our control can happen.
Honestly, If there are major concerns, these tours and other group tours may not be the best fit for you.
Of course. As long as they’re happy to eat plant-based during the tour and respect the group environment, they’re very welcome.
Our tours are designed to be inclusive and welcoming, and we understand that not everyone in your life may follow the same lifestyle. What matters is openness, respect, and a shared mindset – not labels.
Our tours are designed to help you explore each destination in a fun, meaningful, and ethical way – with activities like cultural walking tours, cooking classes, foodie adventures, market visits, and local homestays.
We don’t build the trip around being vegan – instead, we focus on experiencing the country through a vegan lens. That means every activity we include is carefully chosen to align with vegan and vegetarian values, avoiding animal-based tourism and supporting local businesses that respect people, animals, and the planet.
You’ll see more than just vegan restaurants – you’ll get a full taste of the culture, food, and people, without compromising your ethics or dietary needs.
While we do include worthwhile and popular activities on most days, some days also include downtime to relax, explore on your own, or do nothing at all. Our itineraries are designed around a range of experiences offering real impact, not full of time-wasting activities for the sake of making an itinerary look full.
And remember – nothing is compulsory. If you need a breather, you’re free to skip an activity without missing the whole tour.
Definitely not! We don’t include any activities that involve the use of animals for entertainment, riding, performances, or photo ops.
Instead, we support genuine sanctuaries and ethical wildlife experiences that put animal welfare first – not profit.
Our tours are designed to be relaxed and accessible, and are suitable for most people. You won’t need to be super fit – most trips involve some walking, light exploring, and occasional changes in transport.
That said, heat and humidity can make things feel more tiring, especially in tropical countries. We always build in downtime, use hotels with lifts wherever possible, and choose accommodations in accessible locations so you’re not stuck walking up steep hills or far from the action.
If you have mobility concerns, let us know before booking. When necessary, we’ll do our best to offer alternative options – for example, using a taxi instead of a tuk tuk. In some cases, this might involve extra costs, but we’ll always be upfront about it.
We design our tours to be as ethical and low-impact as possible – without compromising on experience.
Where we can, we work with small, locally owned businesses – from restaurants and guides to transport providers – to help support the communities we visit. In some cases, especially with hotels, that’s not always possible, but we still prioritise those that treat staff fairly and have strong environmental practices.
We avoid animal-based tourism entirely and support ethical sanctuaries where animal welfare is the focus – never entertainment.
To reduce waste, we give all guests a free reusable water bottle, tote bag, and bamboo cutlery set. We also minimise unnecessary flights and look for lower-impact transport wherever practical.
Finally, a portion of every booking goes to animal welfare projects in the region – including Friends of the Asian Elephant Hospital in Thailand and Animals Asia’s Bear Sanctuary in Vietnam.
We’ll send you a detailed packing list before your trip, but here are the basics:
Soft-sided bags or backpacks are more practical than hard suitcases, especially when space is tight on minivans or trains. You’ll need to carry your own luggage throughout the trip, so pack light where you can, and consider a bag with wheels.
Avoid packing heavy items like jeans or boots unless you plan to wear them on the plane – they take up space and add unnecessary weight.
For tours that include a domestic flight, the standard checked baggage limit is 20kg. Any excess fees will be your responsibility.
Most main stops have access to laundry services, either in the hotel or nearby – so there’s no need to pack for every single day.
We don’t have strict luggage rules, but soft-sided bags or backpacks are more practical than hard cases. Space in minivans and trains can be tight, and you’ll need to carry your own luggage – often up stairs or along uneven ground.
Bring what’s comfortable for you, but pack light where you can.
You’ll need a passport with at least six months’ validity from your return date. Depending on your nationality, you may also need a visa.
Visa requirements change often, and differ from nationality to nationality, so we strongly recommend checking with the relevant embassy in your country well in advance. If you’re unsure where to start, we’re happy to help point you in the right direction.
Yes – we require all travellers to have valid travel insurance. We want you to enjoy the adventure, but your health and safety comes first.
Your policy should include cover for medical emergencies, evacuation, and trip cancellations. We strongly recommend buying it as soon as your booking is confirmed so you’re covered if anything unexpected forces you to cancel before the trip.
Be cautious about relying solely on credit card or bank-provided travel insurance – these often only cover parts of your journey or offer limited protection.
If you’re unsure what you need, just ask – we’re happy to help point you in the right direction.
We’ll send country-specific tips before your tour, but in general:
If we missed anything, or you have any further questions, please visit the Contact page or simply click the “Book a Call Back” button, and we’ll call you back at a time that suits you.
If we missed anything, or you have any further questions, please visit the Contact page or
simply click the “Book a Call Back” button, and we’ll call you back at a time that suits you.
