Tuesday, October 31, 2006
Saturday, October 28, 2006
Vaccination Details
Hi to all once again, wanted to make this the last posting before our O's. The following details below are about our vaccination process. We can go together as a group or individually, although i apologise for the lack of details such as the costs and specifications for vaccination.
Communicable Disease Centre
Moulmein Road (nearest MRT Novena)
Tel: 6357 7900, 6357 7909Fax : 6357 7910
Opening Hours :Monday to Friday 8am to 5pm
Saturday 8am to 12pm
Sunday & Public Holiday Closed
Services
Community-Acquired Infections
Communicable Diseases
Epidemiology
HIV Infection / Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome
Infection Control
Infections in the Immunocompromised Host
Nosocomial Infections
Outbreak Management
Outpatient Intravenous Antibiotic
Research and Clinical Trials
Travellers’ Health and Vaccination
Tropical Medicine and Travel-Related Illnesses
Taken From www.ttsh.com
Communicable Disease Centre
Moulmein Road (nearest MRT Novena)
Tel: 6357 7900, 6357 7909Fax : 6357 7910
Opening Hours :Monday to Friday 8am to 5pm
Saturday 8am to 12pm
Sunday & Public Holiday Closed
Services
Community-Acquired Infections
Communicable Diseases
Epidemiology
HIV Infection / Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome
Infection Control
Infections in the Immunocompromised Host
Nosocomial Infections
Outbreak Management
Outpatient Intravenous Antibiotic
Research and Clinical Trials
Travellers’ Health and Vaccination
Tropical Medicine and Travel-Related Illnesses
Taken From www.ttsh.com
Saturday, October 14, 2006
Equipment Recce
Recce at Beach Road
Hi everyone, to day we went to check the prices of some items sold at beach road that some of us were looking for. Below is the results of what we saw today. We did not record down the addresses of these shops but however we remember their locations.
Haversacks
There were large price variations amonst the many shops but this particular one caught our eye with riddiculously low prices.
60 litres - $55
48 litres - $43
45 litres - $35
32 litres - $29
Note: The haversacks are of Outgear and Mountaineer brands which are specialised in these kind of bags.
Mr khoo recommends us to bring around 20 to 40 litres volume kind of bags as more would be too bulky.
Water Bottles
Bring those which have a large carrying capacity which are rather durable. They can be found everywhere at Beach Road but the Breakproof bottles by Nalgene (Made in USA) are sold at $20 for a 1 litre bottle in various colours. However, they cannot be bargained as all stalls sell at the same price.
Shoes
Asics shoes going for $60 but only in older designs with limited sizes available for those who need good shoes.
We can organise an outing together to settle our stuff ASAP. Thanks alot and dun forget to check back here regularly.
Hi everyone, to day we went to check the prices of some items sold at beach road that some of us were looking for. Below is the results of what we saw today. We did not record down the addresses of these shops but however we remember their locations.
Haversacks
There were large price variations amonst the many shops but this particular one caught our eye with riddiculously low prices.
60 litres - $55
48 litres - $43
45 litres - $35
32 litres - $29
Note: The haversacks are of Outgear and Mountaineer brands which are specialised in these kind of bags.
Mr khoo recommends us to bring around 20 to 40 litres volume kind of bags as more would be too bulky.
Water Bottles
Bring those which have a large carrying capacity which are rather durable. They can be found everywhere at Beach Road but the Breakproof bottles by Nalgene (Made in USA) are sold at $20 for a 1 litre bottle in various colours. However, they cannot be bargained as all stalls sell at the same price.
Shoes
Asics shoes going for $60 but only in older designs with limited sizes available for those who need good shoes.
We can organise an outing together to settle our stuff ASAP. Thanks alot and dun forget to check back here regularly.
Thursday, October 12, 2006
Responsible Travel: Points to Note
Hi to all once again, the following is a very long post about what we should do as tourists while in Vietnam. Please take the time to go through it as you may find it useful. Lets hope this is one of many posts by me.....
Thanks!!!
( Taken From Intrepid website)
PS: So far the tag board cannot be used too by me. It wont even load on my screen...
Also, how is the shirt coming along? Are we still making one? And please check back here this weekend as Zhan Liang will post the equipment prices after a recce. Thanks. - Jiawei
Respecting cultural differences
Please make sure in your dealings with local people you accept these differences and not try to change them for your own benefit or comfort. Remember that many places operate on different concepts of time - things happen when they happen! The traveller who wishes to have a happy and successful trip should keep as calm, cheerful and friendly as humanly possible. Demanding impatient tourists do not earn respect. Patience, courtesy and smiles are virtues that open many doors.
tourists do not earn respect. Patience, courtesy and smiles are virtues that open many doors.
Friendships
. Don't expect any special privileges though, as you may be only one of many travellers to the area. Accept and enjoy offers of hospitality when you can - "please come and drink tea"! By taking the time to chat with the locals you will learn about their daily lives, culture and attitude to life, plus have a very enjoyable time and a few laughs. This is a chance for them to learn about your culture too. Consider ways to reciprocate hospitality - e.g. post back photos. Don't make promises that you can't keep. In less developed regions don't flaunt your wealth - use discretion with jewellery, cash and techno-gadgetry!Be prepared for lots of questions. Just walking in the street you may be asked: "What's your name? Where are you from?, How old are you? Where are you going?" - perhaps questions you may consider personal. Don't be affronted or consider it rude or an invasion of privacy. It's usually genuine curiosity, friendliness or a desire to practice their English. Respond with patience and a cheery manner.
Etiquette
In Asia crooking your finger to call somebody is considered impolite. People generally use a subtle downward waving motion to summon someone.
In most countries it is inappropriate to express anger in a raised voice. Becoming angry is embarrassing to the local people with whom you are dealing - they will not be embarrassed for themselves, but for you making a fool of yourself. 'Keeping face', that subtle but important quality of personal dignity, is important! Personal candor in Asia is largely a matter of sensibility and face.
Dress
Many countries conservative dress standards, particularly in Asia. Loose, lightweight, long clothing is both respectful and cool in the predominantly hot Asian climate. Shorts should be knee-length. Singlets and tank tops are not suitable. Dress modestly at religious sites anywhere in the world. There are certain places where shoes and/or hats need be removed. In any Muslim area, knees and shoulders should be covered. Check what is acceptable swim wear with your group leader. When in doubt about dress, look to how the majority of locals are clothed.
Cameras and Video Cameras
Be aware of the impact of photography. Sensitivity is the key. Please ensure that you ask permission before videoing or taking photographs of people and respect their wishes if they refuse. Minority groups in particular are often unhappy to have their photo taken. Travellers should avoid paying for the right to take a photo as this has been found to encourage a begging mentality in the locals. Instead if you do take photos, send back copies through your group leader or direct to the people themselves. The locals gain a great buzz from seeing themselves in photos and it encourages a 'sharing' rather than 'taking' attitude towards photography.
Environmental Responsibility
Pollution and waste management is a huge problem throughout the world. In some countries, particularly in Asia, disposal systems are inadequate and recycling of plastics is limited. We suggest avoiding plastic packaging where possible and take along your own bag when shopping. Plastic bags will be offered for everything - don't be shy in suggesting that it isn't needed. Don't be fooled by the rubbish bins on public transport as they may be emptied straight out the window! Collect and dispose of at the next town or hotel.
When trekking, many travellers take an extra plastic bag to pick up any rubbish that they see to improve the area and for their own rubbish. In many cultures it is not appropriate to put rubbish in the cooking fire. Rubbish may have to be carried until a suitable disposal opportunity in the next town.
Bottled water is for sale in most countries, but unfortunately there are few facilities for recycling of the bottles. Please try and minimise the waste of plastic water bottles. Consider packing a water filter, water purification tablets or iodine to purify drinking water..
The natural environment is also very important. If in the bush we need to make sure our human waste is buried away from waterways. Burying or carrying out used toilet paper is a must. Minimise use of soap or shampoos in rivers and lakes - your group leader will let you know when using soap is unsuitable.
There is little education on environmental awareness in some countries, so many locals are unaware of the implications of littering.
Dining & Shopping
Eat local food and drinks and your money supports the locals, rather than seeking out imported familiar snacks and drinks from home. Buy handicrafts and art directly from the makers in local villages when you can, rather than from fancy emporiums or department stores. This may help the maker to obtain a better price.
We ask you not to purchase endangered flora and fauna products that may be offered for sale. In many cases wildlife products that are offered for sale in popular tourist locations cannot be taken through customs on your return home. Avoid contributing to illegal or detrimental trade in wildlife by not purchasing:
Sea turtle products
Coral
Snake skin
Shahtoosh garments (wool from the highly endangered Tibetan antelope)
Butterfly specimens
Sea shells- which may have been taken from the sea while still inhabited by living animals
Ivory - in Hong Kong and China many ivory products are available for sale
Wild animal meats on restaurant menus.
The art of bargaining is something you can work on during your trip. Here's a few pointers to help you on your way:
Start bargaining with some idea of what you consider a fair price for the item to be. This will usually involve sourcing the item in a number of different stores;
The correct price for an item is the price you agree to pay, that keeps both you and the seller happy. Therefore there's no 'right' price;
Be polite, patient, but firm in your bargaining. No-one ever has received a cheaper price through being rude or insensitive;
Don't appear too interested in an item. Walking out of a store is often a good way to get the price to drop;
Shop with a friend - buying in bulk will often reduce the price;
Learn the numbers in the local language. It will win respect from the seller, and will certainly make the process a lot more interesting;
Once a price you have offered is accepted it is not appropriate to back out of the deal;
Only say you'll buy something later if you intend to buy later. The sellers usually have amazing memories, and will come hounding you on your promise!;
Most importantly, enjoy the experience, and remember you're often only bargaining over only a couple of dollars - keep it in perspective.
Donations and Gifts
Please do not give money, pens, or sweets to the local people in the communities we visit, as it can promote a 'begging culture'. It can create unequal relationships between tourist and visitor, with tourists being seen as purely 'givers', and it can also strip self esteem away from people when they get money for simply being poor rather than having to solve their own issues of poverty through community action. With sweets - local people may not have access to dentists, nor be able to afford them.It is considered proper to make a small donation at the end of a visit to a pagoda or temple - most have a contributions box for this purpose.
Thanks!!!
( Taken From Intrepid website)
PS: So far the tag board cannot be used too by me. It wont even load on my screen...
Also, how is the shirt coming along? Are we still making one? And please check back here this weekend as Zhan Liang will post the equipment prices after a recce. Thanks. - Jiawei
Respecting cultural differences
Please make sure in your dealings with local people you accept these differences and not try to change them for your own benefit or comfort. Remember that many places operate on different concepts of time - things happen when they happen! The traveller who wishes to have a happy and successful trip should keep as calm, cheerful and friendly as humanly possible. Demanding impatient tourists do not earn respect. Patience, courtesy and smiles are virtues that open many doors.
tourists do not earn respect. Patience, courtesy and smiles are virtues that open many doors.
Friendships
. Don't expect any special privileges though, as you may be only one of many travellers to the area. Accept and enjoy offers of hospitality when you can - "please come and drink tea"! By taking the time to chat with the locals you will learn about their daily lives, culture and attitude to life, plus have a very enjoyable time and a few laughs. This is a chance for them to learn about your culture too. Consider ways to reciprocate hospitality - e.g. post back photos. Don't make promises that you can't keep. In less developed regions don't flaunt your wealth - use discretion with jewellery, cash and techno-gadgetry!Be prepared for lots of questions. Just walking in the street you may be asked: "What's your name? Where are you from?, How old are you? Where are you going?" - perhaps questions you may consider personal. Don't be affronted or consider it rude or an invasion of privacy. It's usually genuine curiosity, friendliness or a desire to practice their English. Respond with patience and a cheery manner.
Etiquette
In Asia crooking your finger to call somebody is considered impolite. People generally use a subtle downward waving motion to summon someone.
In most countries it is inappropriate to express anger in a raised voice. Becoming angry is embarrassing to the local people with whom you are dealing - they will not be embarrassed for themselves, but for you making a fool of yourself. 'Keeping face', that subtle but important quality of personal dignity, is important! Personal candor in Asia is largely a matter of sensibility and face.
Dress
Many countries conservative dress standards, particularly in Asia. Loose, lightweight, long clothing is both respectful and cool in the predominantly hot Asian climate. Shorts should be knee-length. Singlets and tank tops are not suitable. Dress modestly at religious sites anywhere in the world. There are certain places where shoes and/or hats need be removed. In any Muslim area, knees and shoulders should be covered. Check what is acceptable swim wear with your group leader. When in doubt about dress, look to how the majority of locals are clothed.
Cameras and Video Cameras
Be aware of the impact of photography. Sensitivity is the key. Please ensure that you ask permission before videoing or taking photographs of people and respect their wishes if they refuse. Minority groups in particular are often unhappy to have their photo taken. Travellers should avoid paying for the right to take a photo as this has been found to encourage a begging mentality in the locals. Instead if you do take photos, send back copies through your group leader or direct to the people themselves. The locals gain a great buzz from seeing themselves in photos and it encourages a 'sharing' rather than 'taking' attitude towards photography.
Environmental Responsibility
Pollution and waste management is a huge problem throughout the world. In some countries, particularly in Asia, disposal systems are inadequate and recycling of plastics is limited. We suggest avoiding plastic packaging where possible and take along your own bag when shopping. Plastic bags will be offered for everything - don't be shy in suggesting that it isn't needed. Don't be fooled by the rubbish bins on public transport as they may be emptied straight out the window! Collect and dispose of at the next town or hotel.
When trekking, many travellers take an extra plastic bag to pick up any rubbish that they see to improve the area and for their own rubbish. In many cultures it is not appropriate to put rubbish in the cooking fire. Rubbish may have to be carried until a suitable disposal opportunity in the next town.
Bottled water is for sale in most countries, but unfortunately there are few facilities for recycling of the bottles. Please try and minimise the waste of plastic water bottles. Consider packing a water filter, water purification tablets or iodine to purify drinking water..
The natural environment is also very important. If in the bush we need to make sure our human waste is buried away from waterways. Burying or carrying out used toilet paper is a must. Minimise use of soap or shampoos in rivers and lakes - your group leader will let you know when using soap is unsuitable.
There is little education on environmental awareness in some countries, so many locals are unaware of the implications of littering.
Dining & Shopping
Eat local food and drinks and your money supports the locals, rather than seeking out imported familiar snacks and drinks from home. Buy handicrafts and art directly from the makers in local villages when you can, rather than from fancy emporiums or department stores. This may help the maker to obtain a better price.
We ask you not to purchase endangered flora and fauna products that may be offered for sale. In many cases wildlife products that are offered for sale in popular tourist locations cannot be taken through customs on your return home. Avoid contributing to illegal or detrimental trade in wildlife by not purchasing:
Sea turtle products
Coral
Snake skin
Shahtoosh garments (wool from the highly endangered Tibetan antelope)
Butterfly specimens
Sea shells- which may have been taken from the sea while still inhabited by living animals
Ivory - in Hong Kong and China many ivory products are available for sale
Wild animal meats on restaurant menus.
The art of bargaining is something you can work on during your trip. Here's a few pointers to help you on your way:
Start bargaining with some idea of what you consider a fair price for the item to be. This will usually involve sourcing the item in a number of different stores;
The correct price for an item is the price you agree to pay, that keeps both you and the seller happy. Therefore there's no 'right' price;
Be polite, patient, but firm in your bargaining. No-one ever has received a cheaper price through being rude or insensitive;
Don't appear too interested in an item. Walking out of a store is often a good way to get the price to drop;
Shop with a friend - buying in bulk will often reduce the price;
Learn the numbers in the local language. It will win respect from the seller, and will certainly make the process a lot more interesting;
Once a price you have offered is accepted it is not appropriate to back out of the deal;
Only say you'll buy something later if you intend to buy later. The sellers usually have amazing memories, and will come hounding you on your promise!;
Most importantly, enjoy the experience, and remember you're often only bargaining over only a couple of dollars - keep it in perspective.
Donations and Gifts
Please do not give money, pens, or sweets to the local people in the communities we visit, as it can promote a 'begging culture'. It can create unequal relationships between tourist and visitor, with tourists being seen as purely 'givers', and it can also strip self esteem away from people when they get money for simply being poor rather than having to solve their own issues of poverty through community action. With sweets - local people may not have access to dentists, nor be able to afford them.It is considered proper to make a small donation at the end of a visit to a pagoda or temple - most have a contributions box for this purpose.
Wednesday, October 04, 2006
Room Order
Hanoi:
3 big rooms in the guesthouse (each room has 1 big bed and 1 single bed)
1) Joseph, Thomas and Calvin
2) Mr khoo, Zhan Liang and Jiawei
3) Boon Kiat, Edmund and Seth
Sapa:
3 twin and 1 triple room
1) Joseph and Jiawei
2) Zhan Liang and Edmund
3) Mr khoo and Thomas & Calvin
4) Boon kiat and seth
Note:
- Aarrangements are based on the China trip and then Class.
- They are not final and is open to objections.
- NO room switching is allowed after we reach there.
- Choosing of bed can be done among yourself.
3 big rooms in the guesthouse (each room has 1 big bed and 1 single bed)
1) Joseph, Thomas and Calvin
2) Mr khoo, Zhan Liang and Jiawei
3) Boon Kiat, Edmund and Seth
Sapa:
3 twin and 1 triple room
1) Joseph and Jiawei
2) Zhan Liang and Edmund
3) Mr khoo and Thomas & Calvin
4) Boon kiat and seth
Note:
- Aarrangements are based on the China trip and then Class.
- They are not final and is open to objections.
- NO room switching is allowed after we reach there.
- Choosing of bed can be done among yourself.
Q&A: Read Carefully
QUESTIONS & ANSWERS
Pre-Trip
1. Total cost includes travel insurance and airport taxes in Singapore and Vietnam?
Yes.
2. Will you be assisting in the preparation of RAMs and Notification to MFA?
Yes. We will prepare the form, and you will need to send from your school account.
Actual-Trip
3. Will the guide be bringing mineral water for us during the trek or do we have to carry 3 days' supply of water ourselves? Could I check with you if mineral water could be bought at the villages? Since it is a 3-day trek, how will be guide carry 3 days supply of meals? Will the food items be edible? Is it possible to include drinking water for meals?
All kinds of drink are not included, you will have to supply by yourself, you can carry from Sapa for the first day then you can buy water in the village or on the way trekking at somewhere. Yes, you can buy mineral water or bottled purified water in the villages, at the village you reach, the staffs of Vega Travel working in Sapa will deliver the food to the village then the guide will pick them up then cook for your group. Note: All kinds of drinks are not included in the whole trip (from day 1 to 15). Reference clause 3b)
4. I hope we are getting respectable vietnamese food for meals and decent hotels? Perferably in the Hoan Kiem Old Quarters area.
Guesthouse in Vietnam is not rank of star, it is normally run by a family or small business. Therefore it is a cheapest accommodation to stay, it is simple or called small hotel ( mini hotel) like Son Ha guesthouse in Sapa and Vietnam partner Hanoi's guesthouse (which is nicer than Son Ha or some mini hotels in Hanoi). All meals are offered during the trip is Vietnamese food ( even local food in Sapa or Binh Lu). however all dishes are alternate daily and I am sure that the group will feel content and good. In the fact, after the first meal offered, we can debrief then we can offer base on customized food. As my experiences from Singaporean tourist, the food I offered were rated excellent or good at least because when we go trekking, the tour guide is a cook who will cook for the group with major dishes: Spring rolls, Beaf, chicken, fish, potato, muchroom, vegetable, egg, rice, fresh fruits.
5. Are our meals in Sapa in the restaurants in the old part of town near the market? Like Chapa restaurant? The shops and restaurants in the newer part of Sapa don't look particularly good.
For the meals in Sapa, we will eat at restaurant in old Sapa or sometimes we eat at hotel.
6. Can I clarify how the rooming arrangements are like? 3 twin-share & 1 triple-share as suggested?
In Hanoi: You will take 3 big rooms in the guesthouse (each room has 1 big bed and 1 single bed, own bathroom inside, computer with internet connection). Each room has a computer connected to internet. There is no food at the guesthouse (office), but their are many food stalls around the area. There are food ranging from the roadside stalls, shop stalls and tourist restaurants. (5000VND to 100000VND a meal) In Sapa is 3 twin and 1 triple room. Yes, it is not a staff apartment. There have guesthouse rooms on top of their office.
7. What is the Hanoi guesthouse? Is it in the Hoan Kiem area? Do you know the name of the guesthouse we are staying Hanoi? I hope it's a guesthouse and not their staff apartment. Is there a restaurant in the guesthouse in Hanoi?
The guesthouse is located at Hanoi old commercial quarters, only 3 minutes walking from Hoa Kiem lake. The guest house belongs to Vega Travel and it is above their office, 3 minute walking to Hoan Kiem Lake, in the heart of Hanoi.. Each room is very nice, larger and much air than other guesthouses in the old quarters. Each room has 2 beds, 1 big bed + 1 single with aircondition and internet online. No, it's a guesthouse and not a staff apartment. No, there is one nice restaurant just next door to the office. Very classy and clean. The housing in Sapa is the Son Ha Guesthouse as the Guesthouse is runned by the teacher’s friend.
8. Can you detail the biking specifications: eg. types of bikes, with helmut, safety jeep?
Mountain bikes are made in Japan. Shimano brand. 9 chain gears, helmets are provided and must be worn. Standby jeep behind or a van will be taken instead of a standby jeep because a van has enough room for 10 bikes in case the group can not bike at sometimes or due to weather. Depend on the actual weather, if weather is not good I will change and you don’t have to pay extra.
9. Can you detail the kayaking programme for Days 12 & 13? Eg. where are we kayaking to, are we still having the junk to ourselves? are we doing a morning kayak on Day 13?
We will have our own boat with 5 kayaking boat, the boat has 6 en-suite rooms with fans (one kayak for 2 people) so we can go kayak at any time we want, as long as you like. Depend on the time we will have, the tour guide will take the group kayaking to wherever is nice. E.g: Titop island, Hang Luon (tunnel grottoes), Trinh Nu cave….
10. BTW any success with the search for DFOs (direct factory outlets) of Nike/adidas sportswear shops in Hanoi?
There are no DFOs, but small shops in Hanoi selling these branded goods.
11. A driver will pick us up from the airport to dinner and back to guesthse on Day 1?
Day 01: Yes, our tour guide and driver will pick up Mr Khoo Kay Yong’ from the flight TR308 1745/2010 at Noi Bai airport to our guesthouse. Then take the group for dinner.
12. A driver will pick us up for dinner and then to train station on Day 2? We are on our own on the train?
Day 02: The tour guide will take the group to dinner and then to Hanoi station, to the bed on the train. The train is is SP1 at 2130hr. It is the 4 pax per cabin sleeper aircon. Our tour guide will go and take care the group on the train.
13. A guide will meet us in Lao Cai train station?
Day 03: The tour guide will pick up the group at Lao Cai station to Sapa and take care the group to the end of the trip. Our Sapa specialized tour guide will come back Hanoi to pick up the group and take care the group to the end of the trip, this mean still the same tour guide from Hanoi.
14. It is possible for BFA to throw in a visit for us to the Musuem of Ethnology, Hanoi on one of the days?
Sorry. The visit to the museum is not included for in the amount. If the group really want to visit this museum, the last day when we go to the airport, we will stop at the museum for a visit of 1-2hrs, it is ok but the entrance fee(20.000vnd) is not included
15. How much is the cost for the community work?
The cost for the equipment for painting the Sapa primary school bordering walls is USD50. As part of our effort to contribute back to society, BFA will sponsor this amount and pass the USD50 to Mr Khoo before departure.
16. Since breakfast is included on many days in the itinerary, may I know where we will be having breakfast in Hanoi (if the guesthouse does not have a restaurant)? Do you give us a voucher to visit some place? And during the days in Sapa, if we stay at Son Ha, where do we go for breakfast? I am asking these questions because i need to mentally prepare myself for the logistic of bringing 8 students around and still keep to time.
After the first meal, we will ask the group if the food is good or not good then we can know how to make the best food for them. In Hanoi , the first dinner we will eat at Bach Giai restaurant. In Sapa we will eat at Cha Pa restaurant for the first meals.
17. English library: Is there a room set aside for the library? Can we do other forms of decorations to make it suitable? This is so that we can estimate how many books and other decorations to bring along.
This school has a library room of 30sqm, all basic educational equipments and Vietnamese books showing simply, it lacks of all English studying books and equipments. You can redecorate this liberary room and set a part of English liberary aside in this room. The Headmaster really want the group to help her to redecorate the more popular library for the school on the English study portion. It will be good and useful to bring English studying books along.
18. Teaching English: How many students are we looking at? What is their age group? What is their English language competence? Basic? This so that we can devise some materials and activities for the right number and the right target audience.
The school has 6 classes studying English, 30 pupils/each class, the age from 10-12 years Old ( class 4 and 5), their curriculum is “ English for primary school Pupils 1,2,3”. All the classes at school in the morning from 07h00 – 11h00. Their English language competence is not good, most can not hear and speak, the can only write on paper or black board. The school has only one female teacher teaching all the classes of the school
19. Painting: What is the area we are painting? Do you think we can put up colourful prints instead of just white-washing the walls?
We will paint the bordering external wall (300sqm) of the school and you can put up yellow colour (yellow lime liquid)
20. Is there someone in the primary school with whom we can liase directly by email so that we can have the best match of needs and resources?
The school and the headmaster have only telephone to contact and work (she can not speaking English), no email or other ways for good match.
Pre-Trip
1. Total cost includes travel insurance and airport taxes in Singapore and Vietnam?
Yes.
2. Will you be assisting in the preparation of RAMs and Notification to MFA?
Yes. We will prepare the form, and you will need to send from your school account.
Actual-Trip
3. Will the guide be bringing mineral water for us during the trek or do we have to carry 3 days' supply of water ourselves? Could I check with you if mineral water could be bought at the villages? Since it is a 3-day trek, how will be guide carry 3 days supply of meals? Will the food items be edible? Is it possible to include drinking water for meals?
All kinds of drink are not included, you will have to supply by yourself, you can carry from Sapa for the first day then you can buy water in the village or on the way trekking at somewhere. Yes, you can buy mineral water or bottled purified water in the villages, at the village you reach, the staffs of Vega Travel working in Sapa will deliver the food to the village then the guide will pick them up then cook for your group. Note: All kinds of drinks are not included in the whole trip (from day 1 to 15). Reference clause 3b)
4. I hope we are getting respectable vietnamese food for meals and decent hotels? Perferably in the Hoan Kiem Old Quarters area.
Guesthouse in Vietnam is not rank of star, it is normally run by a family or small business. Therefore it is a cheapest accommodation to stay, it is simple or called small hotel ( mini hotel) like Son Ha guesthouse in Sapa and Vietnam partner Hanoi's guesthouse (which is nicer than Son Ha or some mini hotels in Hanoi). All meals are offered during the trip is Vietnamese food ( even local food in Sapa or Binh Lu). however all dishes are alternate daily and I am sure that the group will feel content and good. In the fact, after the first meal offered, we can debrief then we can offer base on customized food. As my experiences from Singaporean tourist, the food I offered were rated excellent or good at least because when we go trekking, the tour guide is a cook who will cook for the group with major dishes: Spring rolls, Beaf, chicken, fish, potato, muchroom, vegetable, egg, rice, fresh fruits.
5. Are our meals in Sapa in the restaurants in the old part of town near the market? Like Chapa restaurant? The shops and restaurants in the newer part of Sapa don't look particularly good.
For the meals in Sapa, we will eat at restaurant in old Sapa or sometimes we eat at hotel.
6. Can I clarify how the rooming arrangements are like? 3 twin-share & 1 triple-share as suggested?
In Hanoi: You will take 3 big rooms in the guesthouse (each room has 1 big bed and 1 single bed, own bathroom inside, computer with internet connection). Each room has a computer connected to internet. There is no food at the guesthouse (office), but their are many food stalls around the area. There are food ranging from the roadside stalls, shop stalls and tourist restaurants. (5000VND to 100000VND a meal) In Sapa is 3 twin and 1 triple room. Yes, it is not a staff apartment. There have guesthouse rooms on top of their office.
7. What is the Hanoi guesthouse? Is it in the Hoan Kiem area? Do you know the name of the guesthouse we are staying Hanoi? I hope it's a guesthouse and not their staff apartment. Is there a restaurant in the guesthouse in Hanoi?
The guesthouse is located at Hanoi old commercial quarters, only 3 minutes walking from Hoa Kiem lake. The guest house belongs to Vega Travel and it is above their office, 3 minute walking to Hoan Kiem Lake, in the heart of Hanoi.. Each room is very nice, larger and much air than other guesthouses in the old quarters. Each room has 2 beds, 1 big bed + 1 single with aircondition and internet online. No, it's a guesthouse and not a staff apartment. No, there is one nice restaurant just next door to the office. Very classy and clean. The housing in Sapa is the Son Ha Guesthouse as the Guesthouse is runned by the teacher’s friend.
8. Can you detail the biking specifications: eg. types of bikes, with helmut, safety jeep?
Mountain bikes are made in Japan. Shimano brand. 9 chain gears, helmets are provided and must be worn. Standby jeep behind or a van will be taken instead of a standby jeep because a van has enough room for 10 bikes in case the group can not bike at sometimes or due to weather. Depend on the actual weather, if weather is not good I will change and you don’t have to pay extra.
9. Can you detail the kayaking programme for Days 12 & 13? Eg. where are we kayaking to, are we still having the junk to ourselves? are we doing a morning kayak on Day 13?
We will have our own boat with 5 kayaking boat, the boat has 6 en-suite rooms with fans (one kayak for 2 people) so we can go kayak at any time we want, as long as you like. Depend on the time we will have, the tour guide will take the group kayaking to wherever is nice. E.g: Titop island, Hang Luon (tunnel grottoes), Trinh Nu cave….
10. BTW any success with the search for DFOs (direct factory outlets) of Nike/adidas sportswear shops in Hanoi?
There are no DFOs, but small shops in Hanoi selling these branded goods.
11. A driver will pick us up from the airport to dinner and back to guesthse on Day 1?
Day 01: Yes, our tour guide and driver will pick up Mr Khoo Kay Yong’ from the flight TR308 1745/2010 at Noi Bai airport to our guesthouse. Then take the group for dinner.
12. A driver will pick us up for dinner and then to train station on Day 2? We are on our own on the train?
Day 02: The tour guide will take the group to dinner and then to Hanoi station, to the bed on the train. The train is is SP1 at 2130hr. It is the 4 pax per cabin sleeper aircon. Our tour guide will go and take care the group on the train.
13. A guide will meet us in Lao Cai train station?
Day 03: The tour guide will pick up the group at Lao Cai station to Sapa and take care the group to the end of the trip. Our Sapa specialized tour guide will come back Hanoi to pick up the group and take care the group to the end of the trip, this mean still the same tour guide from Hanoi.
14. It is possible for BFA to throw in a visit for us to the Musuem of Ethnology, Hanoi on one of the days?
Sorry. The visit to the museum is not included for in the amount. If the group really want to visit this museum, the last day when we go to the airport, we will stop at the museum for a visit of 1-2hrs, it is ok but the entrance fee(20.000vnd) is not included
15. How much is the cost for the community work?
The cost for the equipment for painting the Sapa primary school bordering walls is USD50. As part of our effort to contribute back to society, BFA will sponsor this amount and pass the USD50 to Mr Khoo before departure.
16. Since breakfast is included on many days in the itinerary, may I know where we will be having breakfast in Hanoi (if the guesthouse does not have a restaurant)? Do you give us a voucher to visit some place? And during the days in Sapa, if we stay at Son Ha, where do we go for breakfast? I am asking these questions because i need to mentally prepare myself for the logistic of bringing 8 students around and still keep to time.
After the first meal, we will ask the group if the food is good or not good then we can know how to make the best food for them. In Hanoi , the first dinner we will eat at Bach Giai restaurant. In Sapa we will eat at Cha Pa restaurant for the first meals.
17. English library: Is there a room set aside for the library? Can we do other forms of decorations to make it suitable? This is so that we can estimate how many books and other decorations to bring along.
This school has a library room of 30sqm, all basic educational equipments and Vietnamese books showing simply, it lacks of all English studying books and equipments. You can redecorate this liberary room and set a part of English liberary aside in this room. The Headmaster really want the group to help her to redecorate the more popular library for the school on the English study portion. It will be good and useful to bring English studying books along.
18. Teaching English: How many students are we looking at? What is their age group? What is their English language competence? Basic? This so that we can devise some materials and activities for the right number and the right target audience.
The school has 6 classes studying English, 30 pupils/each class, the age from 10-12 years Old ( class 4 and 5), their curriculum is “ English for primary school Pupils 1,2,3”. All the classes at school in the morning from 07h00 – 11h00. Their English language competence is not good, most can not hear and speak, the can only write on paper or black board. The school has only one female teacher teaching all the classes of the school
19. Painting: What is the area we are painting? Do you think we can put up colourful prints instead of just white-washing the walls?
We will paint the bordering external wall (300sqm) of the school and you can put up yellow colour (yellow lime liquid)
20. Is there someone in the primary school with whom we can liase directly by email so that we can have the best match of needs and resources?
The school and the headmaster have only telephone to contact and work (she can not speaking English), no email or other ways for good match.
Monday, October 02, 2006
Job Scope: Training Head
In-Charge: Zhang Jiawei
Main Objective:
To prepare ourselves for the trip both physically and mentally before the trip itself so as to have an accident-free record while at the same time an enjoyable expierience
Location: Mostly in Singapore....
Target Group: Trip Participants
Agenda(Physical):
- Post infomation here on food intakes during the trip itself (eg. Energy-giving foods, minimum calories required based on activity)
- Prepare a training schedule for everyone so that we would be ready physically( eg.physical training sessions)
- Safety aspects and general precautions to take note, including first-aid
Agenda(Mental):
-Get a good gauge of the intensity level of the activities so as to ready ourselves mentally beforehand (eg. Dist. per day)
-Basic first-aid competency for everyone (eg.through notes given out, sessions)
Things to take note: This is a preparatory role that requires a lot of planning beforehand, thus everyone's cooperation is needed in the efficient dessemination of infomation given out on the blog. I will post WEEKLY so pls check back for regular updates. Thanks
Main Objective:
To prepare ourselves for the trip both physically and mentally before the trip itself so as to have an accident-free record while at the same time an enjoyable expierience
Location: Mostly in Singapore....
Target Group: Trip Participants
Agenda(Physical):
- Post infomation here on food intakes during the trip itself (eg. Energy-giving foods, minimum calories required based on activity)
- Prepare a training schedule for everyone so that we would be ready physically( eg.physical training sessions)
- Safety aspects and general precautions to take note, including first-aid
Agenda(Mental):
-Get a good gauge of the intensity level of the activities so as to ready ourselves mentally beforehand (eg. Dist. per day)
-Basic first-aid competency for everyone (eg.through notes given out, sessions)
Things to take note: This is a preparatory role that requires a lot of planning beforehand, thus everyone's cooperation is needed in the efficient dessemination of infomation given out on the blog. I will post WEEKLY so pls check back for regular updates. Thanks
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