Epworth Vietnam CEO Challenge

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trip highlights Raising awareness and monies for Epworth Medical Foundation Trek amongst Northern Vietnam s ethnic minority groups Cycling through remote rice terraced fields and jungles of

Exploring the streets of Hanoi s old quarter Trip Duration 9 days Trip Code: EW7 Grade Moderate to Challenging Activities Charity Challenge, Charity Trek Summary 7 nights hotel and ecolodges

care. Our work is vital, because Epworth is a charitable, not for profit hospital.

We receive very limited funding from government.

Your Huma Challenge Thank you for your interest in our Epworth Vietnam. Huma Charity Challenge is a division of the worldwide adventure travel company World Expeditions.

At the same time you take on the challenge of fundraising and partake in an adventure to discover new worlds, new landscapes and new cultures.

1 trip highlights Raising awareness and monies for Epworth Medical Foundation Trek amongst Northern Vietnam s ethnic minority groups Cycling through remote rice terraced fields and jungles of Northern Vietnam. Exploring the streets of Hanoi s old quarter Trip Duration 9 days Trip Code: EW7 Grade Moderate to Challenging Activities Charity Challenge, Charity Trek Summary 7 nights hotel and ecolodges Supporting Your Cause Epworth Medical Foundation Epworth Medical Foundation (EMF) opened in 1982 to raise much needed funds to ensure patients at Epworth Health Care receive the best possible care. Our work is vital, because Epworth is a charitable, not for profit hospital. We rely on your generosity to enable us to stay at the forefront of advancements in medical technology, for our patients. Epworth is a private, not for profit organisation. We receive very limited funding from government. Instead, we rely on funds raised by Epworth Medical Foundation to continue to provide our patients with the best possible facilities, equipment, surgical expertise and access to research. Your Huma Challenge Thank you for your interest in our Epworth Vietnam. Huma Charity Challenge is a division of the worldwide adventure travel company World Expeditions. When joining a Huma Charity Challenge you embark on a remarkable journey to discover your inner philanthropist as you raise money for a Charity that is important to you. At the same time you take on the challenge of fundraising and partake in an adventure to discover new worlds, new landscapes and new cultures... perhaps you ll even discover how far your personal boundaries stretch as you take on a physical challenge like a cycling, trekking or a mountaineering adventure. We are passionate about off the beaten track travel experiences as they provide travellers with the thrill of coming face to face with untouched cultures as well as wilderness regions of great natural beauty. Our itineraries are well researched, affordable and tailored for the enjoyment of small groups. Our itineraries provide the very best travel experience, designed by people with vast local knowledge who share our vision of authentic exchange and real exploration with a responsible travel approach at the core World Expeditions Travel Group - Scott Pinnegar 4/5/2017 8:05:17 AM

2 Charity Challenge Payments Joining Australia Trip cost in single room: $15000 Non Refundable Registration Fee: $200 All prices are per person Trip Dates Feb - 17 Feb Countries Visited: Vietnam Vaccinations: Please consult a travel vaccination specialist for up to date information Group Size Min: 14 Group Size Max: 24 Leader: Expert Local Leader & Escort *Ask our staff for more information. What Impact Will My Fundraising Have? Epworth Medical Foundation The difference you make When you donate to the Foundation, your generosity is used to directly benefit our patients. For example, more than half of all medical equipment at Epworth Health Care is funded by the Foundation, and 80 percent of our medical research. Charitable funds are used to support: *state of the art medical equipment that ensures our patients receive the very best *world class facilities that maximise patient outcomes, safety and comfort *groundbreaking medical research projects and trials, shared with our patients *staff education and training opportunities to pass best practice on to our patients *support programs to care for our patients emotional and financial needs Your Adventure This Epworth charity challenge provides a real opportunity to experience and interact with Vietnam s northern ethnic minorities whilst exploring the stunning rural landscape from handle bar level and trekking. From the vibrant centre of Hanoi we travel deep into the valleys and karst scenery of Ninh Binh and the mountains of Sapa, where we walk and cycle between the traditional stilted villages of the Vietnam minority groups. This is a great challenging journey to help raise funds for the Epworth Medical Foundation. Fundraising Options There are a number of ways you can approach your fundraising: 1.Simply pay for it yourself, as you would any other holiday (although this will be a LOT more memorable than any other holiday!). 2.Fundraise some or all of the amount. When you do so, any donations that others make towards your challenge will be tax deductible. If you d like to fundraise for your trip but don t know where to start, our professional fundraisers will provide you with the support and resources to make it easy and stress free. Online Fundraising Portal When fundraising for the charity donation component of this challenge you must seek permission of your charity before beginning to fundraise in their name. The team at Epworth will be in touch with you upon registration to give you the details of the online fundraising page and permission to fundraise. Itinerary at a Glance DAY 1 DAY 2 DAY 3 DAY 4 DAY 5 DAY 6 DAY 7 DAY 8 DAY 9 DEPARTS AUSTRALIA, ARRIVE HANOI, CYCLE TO LONG BIEN BRIDGE FULL DAYS CYCLING ALONG RED RIVER AND WEST LAKE HIKE THE JUNGLE TRAIL TO CUC PHUONG NATIONAL PARK, NINH BINH CYCLE THE VAN LONG NATURE RESERVE, DRIVE TO HANOI, OVERNIGHT VICTORIA TRAIN TO SAPA ARRIVE LAO CAI, TRANSFER TO SAPA, TREK TO TOPAS ECOLODGE SPECTACULAR SAPA CYCLING CHALLENGE DAY WALK AROUND SAPA SURROUNDS AND MARKETS, DRIVE TO HANOI, CELEBRATION DINNER MORNING CYCLE, RETURN TO HANOI, FLY HANOI TO AUSTRALIA ARRIVE AUSTRALIA World Expeditions Travel Group - Scott Pinnegar 4/5/2017 8:05:17 AM

3 Responsible Travel The environments we travel through are fragile. It is our responsibility as visitors to minimise the impact of our presence. World Expeditions were the proud recipients of the inaugural Australian National Travel Industry s Environmental Achievement award for our Responsible Travel Guidebook. This detailed guide to responsible & sustainable travel is provided to all World Expeditions clients before they travel. Please ask your consultant if you have not received your copy of our award winning book. Alternatively, you may like to download a copy from our website Adventure Travel By its very nature Charity Challenges involve an element of the unexpected. In remote and developing countries do not expect standards you are used to at home. Remote areas are sometimes unpredictable and itineraries may be altered. To get the most out of your adventure it is important that you are suitably fit, flexible, positive and eager to take on all the challenges that arise. If you are uncertain about your suitability for this trip we recommend that you speak with your charity representative or one of our team. Important Note These trip notes represent the most current information for this itinerary, and may supersede any other supplied information, including but not limited to the itinerary and price. The itinerary should be seen as a guide only. This itinerary may change at any time due to inclement weather, forces of nature and other circumstances beyond our control. what s included Trip escorted by Epworth Medical Foundation representative Return international airfare from Australian gateway cities Local experienced bilingual guide accompanying the group 7 nights accommodation in hotels and good ecolodges in single rooms 7 breakfasts, 7 lunches and 7 dinners 21 speed bikes and support vehicle on cycling days Airport transfers Services of a bilingual guide Private vehicle transport through out Site entry and national park fees Detailed Itinerary DAY 1 Departs Australia, arrive Hanoi, cycle to Long Bien Bridge After all the planing and preparation the wait is finally over! Please make your way to the airport for your flight to Hanoi. Flight details will be sent once you register. On arrival into Hanoi the group will be transferred to your centrally located hotel. After freshening up your guide will meet you in the hotel lobby and transfer to our bike store for a fit out. After a short briefing about biking route and tips and testing the bikes we head out on our journey. We cross the Red River on the historic Long Bien Bridge built in 1899, leaving the city behind us we pedal back roads past vegetable farms, fruit plantations and quiet villages. Upon entering Bat Trang village, we cycle through the old streets selling different wares before cycling back to Hanoi city and our bike store. We then transfer back to our hotel and head out on our first welcome dinner. Cycling distance approx 30km Overnight Sofitel Legend Metropole Hotel meals: D DAY 2 Full days cycling along Red River and West Lake This morning after breakfast your guide will meet you at the hotel and have you fitted out for a suitable bike. After a short briefing about our biking route and testing for the bikes we head out on the back roads through small alleys zigzagging along the Red River dyke. Our first stop will be a small riverside hamlet where people sell pottery from the famous pottery villages of Bat Trang and Phu Lang. We continue cycling through bonsai and flower gardens. Just one month before the Lunar New Year the gardens are full of yellow kumquat fruits and pink peach blossoms making for a colorful background. Our route runs alongside the Red River for sections until we reach the Chem communal house, considered to be one of the oldest communal houses of Vietnam. Cycling through small local markets and Dong Ngac ancient village gives us the perfect opportunity to observe local life, unchanged for many years. We continue on a loop and head back to Hanoi including a ferry crossing over the Red River to Thanh Tri. We continue on small lanes along the villages before returning to Hanoi. On arrival at our hotel we have time to freshen up before heading out to a local restaurant for dinner. Overnight Sofitel Legend Metropole Hotel Cycling distance: approx 50km World Expeditions Travel Group - Scott Pinnegar 4/5/2017 8:05:17 AM

4 DAY 3 Hike the jungle trail to Cuc Phuong National Park, Ninh Binh After breakfast, we depart from Hanoi early for the 2 hour transfer to Khanh Village in Hoa Binh Province. Here we will trek along the Cuc Phuong jungle trail leading into the Cuc Phuong National Park. The trail undulates through the valley winding its way through the forest and takes around 6 hours. We will see and hear lots of birds as we make our way to the Park centre. We will have a vehicle waiting for you to take you to the Emeralda Resort located in Ninh Binh, the drive should take us around 45 min to 1 hour. Overnight in Emeralda Resort Ninh Binh. Grade: Moderate/Hard Hiking distance: approx. 16km DAY 4 Cycle the Van Long Nature Reserve, drive to Hanoi, overnight Victoria train to Sapa Cycle along the Van Long Nature Reserve to Hoa Lu, Vietnam s capital of the Dinh and Early Le dynasties in the 10th and 11th century. The sanctuaries were built in the 17th century. You will see the stone pedestal of a royal throne, bronze bells and statues of the Emperors. We disembark our bikes and continue to trek to the top of Ma Yen Mount for a fantastic view across this spectacular region. We continue our cycling to Trang An and catch a boat into the caves of Trang An. The boat takes us through spectacular karst scenery, shallow rice paddies and rich jungle. We leave our boat and meet our vehicle for the drive back to Hanoi and dinner. After our dinner we transfer to the railway station to take the Victoria Express carriage to Lao Cai. Overnight in Victoria Express Train. Cycling distance: approx.40km plus trekking and boat ride DAY 5 Arrive Lao Cai, transfer to Sapa, trek to Topas Ecolodge We arrive at Lao Cai Railway Station in the early morning. Our vehicle will be waiting for us and we transfer to the hill station of Sapa for breakfast. After breakfast we can enjoy a short walk through this fascinating town before we leave the main path and descend down the valley on a dirt trail through rice paddy terraces. The scenery in this area is stunning. Upon reaching the narrow river running on the bottom of the valley, we will walk along its bank for a while and eventually arrive at Y Linh Ho hilltribe village of the Black H mong minority group. Here we can rest and enjoy lunch before continueing our trek deeper into the Muong Hoa valley. We will pass through Lao Chai village of Black H mong minority and then Ta Van village of Giay minority. At Ta Van, you walk up to the main road where our vehicle is waiting for the short transfer to the Topas Ecolodge. Overnight in Topas Ecolodge. Trekking Approx: Moderate 5 hours walking World Expeditions Travel Group - Scott Pinnegar 4/5/2017 8:05:17 AM

5 DAY 6 Spectacular Sapa cycling challenge day This biking day offers you a great challenging ride in the most amazing part of the Sapa area, 45km almost all downhill in an area which is almost untouched by tourists. The road is quiet and leads you through beautiful rice valley and small hamlets. We pass through areas inhabited by the Red Dao, Flower H mong and Dzay people. We start off by driving uphill to the high Northern part of Sapa about 9km from the main centre. First you can test your bike, helmet and gloves before getting ready for the ride. The first part is downhill to Ban Khoang village of Red Dao people. On the way you might see some of the first ethnic groups of the region in their beautiful tradition costumes, we will soon notice that the locals here are not used to see foreigners! The ride continues uphill before arriving in a large and beautiful valley. There is a great vantage point here for a team photo before we continue the ride to the Ban Xeo village of Dzay people. We make a stop in the village for lunch and to relax before our afternoon ride. Just after lunch we have the final challenging uphill section, before we enter the valley of Muong Vi. There is always the support vehicle near by if you are unable to ride all the way uphill. The final part is downhill following a river in a narrow valley surrounded by forest covered mountains. The biking finishes when arrival to Ban Vuoc village. This is a little town and you might want to join a cold drink celebrating the last 2200 meter downhill section! If you are very strong you might want to continue on the now bigger road for another 18-20km to Lao Cai before coming back to Sapa. Overnight in Victoria Sapa Resort & Spa. Grade: Hard Cycling distance: 45-60km depending client s physical conditions DAY 7 Walk around Sapa surrounds and markets, drive to Hanoi, celebration dinner After an early breakfast we can start our walk around Sapa and the surrounding areas. Depending on the day of the week we will visit one of the many hill tribe markets held in this area. We enjoy lunch and then transfer to our vehicle for the drive back to Hanoi where we check into our hotel and enjoy a final celebration dinner to complete our challenge. Overnight in Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi DAY 8 Morning cycle, return to Hanoi, fly Hanoi to Australia This morning we have the opportunity to either relax and enjoy some last minute shopping or embark on another cycle through small villages before transferring to the airport for your onward flight. Overnight on flight Grade: Easy Cycling distance: 20km meals: B,L DAY 9 Arrive Australia This morning we arrive back home in Australia after a life-changing journey to one of the most fascinating countries in the world. meals: NIL This itinerary is subject to change with any modifications in Community regulations as well as Governmental changes and natural circumstances beyond our control World Expeditions Travel Group - Scott Pinnegar 4/5/2017 8:05:17 AM

6 Cycling We believe that cycling is one of the best ways to see a country. Our cycling trips have been well researched to take you on the best route which usually means a combination of tarmac and dirt roads, the odd main road but generally smaller secondary roads. And sometimes even the occasional hill! All of this so that you can see the incredible scenery and landscapes, view the main sights and along the way eat delicious food, stay at unique accommodation and discover the incredible people. Generally we supply you with geared (21 27) mountain or touring bikes and support vehicle which will follow the group on almost all sections of the ride. All equipment and luggage will be carried by the support vehicle. You will need to carry a small day pack with your camera, sunscreen and water. It is important to remember that these cycling journeys are not designed to be a marathon event. No one needs to feel under pressure to ride. If at any point you do not wish to ride the vehicle is always available for you and your bike to be transported. Usually we stop every 10 to 20kms for a rest. This will be the time to recover your breath and replenish your fluids and energy with water and snacks. Remember that cycling involves some physical exertion, so you cannot expect that you will not feel tired. A little bit of preparation will go a long way. Cycling, of course, is an active pursuit and to maximise your own personal protection in case of a tumble or fall, the wearing of a bicycle helmet is compulsory at all times whilst cycling. Country Information Vietnam is a country of immense beauty and geographical diversity. The country is roughly divided into three main areas Bac Po (north), Trung Bo (centre) and Nam Bo (south). The main feature of the north of Vietnam is mountains and forests along with the vast Red River Delta. The north is also home to the Gulf of Tonkin and a maze of islands in the bay. Central Vietnam is made up of agricultural plains wedged between the Truong Son Mountains and the South China Sea making some dramatic mountain passes overlooking ocean vistas. The Mekong Delta dominates the south of the country. Vietnam has been the site of battles and invasions for over 2000 years. Influences of invaders or modern day liberators have left the country with a unique cultural identity and a complex and fascinating history. This history has given Vietnam a diverse population made up of different ethnic groups, particularly from China. The predominant ethnic group is known as Kinh and make up about 90% of the population. There are dozens of other ethnic groups including Cham and Khmer particularly in the south of the country. Since the early 1990 s, Vietnam has been opening its doors to tourism. Although the relatively long periods of isolation and a history of war has not produced a laid back tourism paradise like Thailand facilities and infrastructure in the country are changing rapidly. Vietnam is still a communist country although the Government is at times very pragmatic and forward thinking. You still need to carry with you an abundance of patience and a good sense of humour to overcome the overt bureaucracy and the inevitable delays, however, the fascinating history and culture; the resilient and proud people; and the beauty of the varied landscape help to overcome any possible frustrations World Expeditions Travel Group - Scott Pinnegar 4/5/2017 8:05:17 AM

Climate Vietnam s climate can vary markedly from region to region due to its length stretching 1650 km from north to south. Generally two distinct seasons prevail in Vietnam.

Hotter temperatures and heavy monsoon rains characterize the months from May to September although you can experience rain at any time. The hottest months of the year are June, July and August.

7 Climate Vietnam s climate can vary markedly from region to region due to its length stretching 1650 km from north to south. Generally two distinct seasons prevail in Vietnam. From October to April, the temperatures are usually fairly cool, especially in the north of the country. In the mountain areas temperatures can be as low as 10 degrees Celsius. Hotter temperatures and heavy monsoon rains characterize the months from May to September although you can experience rain at any time. The hottest months of the year are June, July and August. Southern Vietnam s weather patterns are more constant with a rainy season from May to October and a relative dry season from November to February. The temperatures in the south can rise as high as 35 degrees Celsius (95 degrees Fahrenheit) from March to May. Dietary Requirements Provided we are advised in advance of your departure we are able to cater for vegetarian diets and can assist with medically recommended diets (allergies and intolerances). Please ensure you discuss your requirements with us well in advance (at least 1 month prior to your trip) to determine whether we can cater to such dietary requirements on your chosen adventure. Please note that options are likely to be limited in very remote locations or alternatives may be more expensive or unavailable. There may be times when those with special requirements may need to provide their own food. We are unable to guarantee a peanut free or allergen free trip, and therefore, we strongly encourage that travellers with life threatening or severe allergies take all necessary medical precautions to prepare for the possibility of exposure. Passengers must travel with all necessary medications for food allergies and be capable of self administering these medications. Accommodation on the Trip Hotel List. Sofitel Legend Metropole Hotel Hanoi Emeralda Resort Ninh Binh Victoria Sapa Resort and Spa Topas Eco Lodge in Sapa What You Carry In your daypack you will need to carry extra warm clothing (depending on location and weather), a rainjacket, water bottle, camera gear, valuables and personal items such as sunscreen, lip eze etc. Equipment Required A comprehensive gear list is provided in the pre departure information provided on booking. What s Not Included Meals and beverages not indicated in the itinerary Personal expenses such as bar, telephone and laundry bills World Expeditions Travel Group - Scott Pinnegar 4/5/2017 8:05:17 AM

8 Tips and gratuities Visa costs Travel Insurance Info Nights Come and join us on one of our free Info Nights and learn more about your Charity Challenge. Whether your registered or still deciding whether to take the challenge you ll find this evenings informative and inspiring and are hosted by our most experienced and passionate travel experts and representatives from the relevant charity. Register at How To Book To register on this Charity Challenge please complete the registration form and return to Huma Charity Challenge, Attention Scott Pinnegar Post: Huma Charity Challenge, Level Little Bourke Street, Melbourne Victoria 3000 Otherwise you can make your booking online by using the REGISTER NOW button found at the bottom of the relevant Charity Challenge page on our website au The Epworth Medical Foundation staff are able to answer any questions you may have as well as provide you with all the support you need as you fundraise for your challenge. Please contact and they will be happy to talk with you World Expeditions Travel Group - Scott Pinnegar 4/5/2017 8:05:17 AM

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