Epworth Ho Chi Minh to Angkor Wat Cycle Challengeepworthmedicalfoundation.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/Heart… · Epworth Ho Chi Minh to Angkor Wat Cycle Challenge rip T Highlights

Epworth Ho Chi Minh to Angkor Wat Cycle Challenge

Trip Highligh tsRaising money for Epworth Medical Foundation

Bustling streets and markets in Ho Chi Minh CityEye‑opening wartime history at the Cu Chi tunnels

Floating markets, villages and waterways of the Mekong River Delta

Sun, sand and seafood in the sleepy beach resort of KepCycling around the laid‑back French colonial river town of Kampot

Siem Reap and the iconic temples of Angkor by bikeSupported cycling through some of Southeast

Asia’s most stunning landscapes

Supporting Your CauseEpworth Medical FoundationEpworth 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.By taking part in the EMF Bike for Health, you will not only enjoy the adventure of a lifetime: you will also be helping to give vital support to hundreds of our patients.

1 – © 2018 World Expeditions Travel Group ‑ Scott Pinnegar 2/10/2018 4:07:40 PM

Trip Duration 14 days Trip Code: EA1Grade Introductory to ModerateActivities Charity Challenge 8 day cycleSummary 11 nights hotel/guesthouse

Your Huma ChallengeThank you for your interest in our Epworth Ho Chi Minh to Angkor Wat Cycle Challenge. 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.


Cycle backroads, through small local villages, as we journey from bustling Ho Chi Minh City to the exquisite temples of Angkor Wat in Cambodia whilst helping

raise much needed funds for Epworth Medical Foundation and thus ensuring that our wards remain equipped with cutting edge, world class medical equipment.

What Impact Will My Fundraising Have?Epworth Medical Foundation ‑ The difference you makeWhen 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 HealthCare 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 AdventureCycling is one of the best ways to experience the diverse scenery and rural cultures of Southeast Asia, and continuing our tradition of pioneering cycle trips, this unique itinerary takes us from the bustling streets of Ho Chi Minh City through untouched villages to the iconic temple complex of Angkor Wat. Our comfortable geared bikes, support crew and steady pace mean that you’ll be free to enjoy the stunning scenery along the way, with our backup vehicle available to give tired riders a break at any time. Our journey begins in fast‑paced Ho Chi Minh City, which we leave behind for quieter back roads to the Cu Chi Tunnels. Crossing through to Cambodia, we take time out in the charming seaside resort of Kep and laid‑back riverside town of Kampot, cycling through lush green countryside, fertile rice fields and small minority villages. We’ll have time to absorb the palaces, pagodas and French inspired architecture of Phnom Penh before embarking on an in‑depth cycle of the spectacular Angkor temples.

Fundraising OptionsThere 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!). If you do so, $2,500 of this cost will be tax deductible.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 PortalWhen 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.The minimum fundraising target is $2,500 per person. You can do it!


Trip Dates

2019 03 Feb - 16 Feb

important notesRF - Registration Fee

Charity Challenge PaymentsJoining Australia Travel Cost Twin Share: $6690

Non Refundable Registration Fee: $200

Optional Single Supplement: $350

All prices are per person

Huma Challenge does not require single travellers to pay a surcharge for travelling alone. We will arrange for you to share accommodation with

another traveller of the same gender and if we can not match you up we will provide a single room at no extra charge. If you prefer not to share a single

supplement is payable to guarantee your own room. The cost of the single supplement is listed above.




Itinerary at a GlanceDAY 1 DEPART AUSTRALIADAY 2 ARRIVE IN HO CHI MINH CITYDAY 3 HO CHI MINH CITY SIGHTSEEING AND CU CHI TUNNELS CYCLE (30KM)DAY 4 CYCLE TO CAN THO (65KM)DAY 5 TO RACH GIA CYCLE (50KM)DAY 6 TO KEP, CROSS CAMBODIAN BORDER ENROUTE CYCLE (60KM)DAY 7 CYCLE TO KAMPOT (50KM)DAY 8 TO PHNOM PENH, CYCLE (60KM)DAY 9 IN PHNOM PENHDAY 10 TO SIEM REAPDAY 11 ANGKOR TEMPLES (40 KM)DAY 12 ANGKOR TEMPLES (60 KM)DAY 13 IN SIEM REAPDAY 14 ARRIVE AUSTRALIA

What’s Included Trip escorted by Epworth Medical Foundation representative International airfares & departure taxes All meals as per itinerary 21 gear bikes airport transfers expert bilingual guide medical kit comfortable well located hotels sightseeing as listed in itinerary national park & site entry fees

Detailed ItineraryDAY 1 Depart AustraliaAfter all the planing and preparation the wait is finally over! Please make your way to your Australian gateway airport for your flight to Ho Chi Minh. Flight details will be sent once you register.meals: NIL

DAY 2 Arrive in Ho Chi Minh CityOn arrival in Ho Chi Minh you will be met by your group leader and transferred to the group hotel. The remainder of the day is at leisure to start exploring. Group meeting being held in the hotel foyer at a time indicated in your final documents. Tonight we enjoy a welcome dinner at a local restaurant, allowing us to sample Southern Vietnamese specialties and meet our fellow travelers.Overnight in Ho Chi Minh City.meals: D


Fast FactsCountries Visited:

Vietnam & Cambodia

Visas:Yes*

Vaccinations:Please consult a travel vaccination

specialist for up to date information

Group Size Min:

14

Group Size Max:

20

Singles:A single supplement is available for this trip*

Leader:Expert Local Leader & Escort

*Ask our staff for more information.




DAY 3 Ho Chi Minh City sightseeing and Cu Chi Tunnels cycle (30km)This morning we set off on a day of sightseeing, taking a short bus trip to Hoc Mon town where we’ll hop on our bikes and cycle through scenic rice paddies and rubber plantations making our way to the famous Cu Chi Tunnels, a twisting network of narrow underground tunnels and rooms that the Viet Cong used as its military base and living quarters during the Vietnam War. We’ll learn about the Viet Cong’s life underground as well as being able to explore the network of tunnels by foot. After lunch at a local restaurant we’ll then drive back to Ho Chi Minh City (formerly Saigon) for the afternoon, taking in some of the city’s most important sights. We begin with the Reunification Palace, an outstanding example of 1960s architecture that is steeped in modern history. It was here that the Vietnam War ended in 1975, when the city of Saigon fell after a North Vietnamese army tank crashed through the palace gates, from which point the city was to be known as Ho Chi Minh City. From here we visit some of the city’s major landmarks: the Notre Dame Cathedral, an imposing neo-Romanesque Catholic cathedral built in the late 19th century; and the Saigon Post Office, a classic French colonial building bearing a giant portrait of ‘Uncle Ho’ and many grand architectural details. To finish the day, you might like to visit the famous Ben Thanh Market, an enormous sprawling covered marketplace that is packed to the gills with everything from fresh fruits, vegetables, seafood and sweets, to suitcases, clothing and white goods, traditional lacquer ware, handicrafts and kitschy tourist trinkets. Bargaining is key here, but even if you’re not shopping, it’s a dazzling spectacle to photograph. Tonight we’ll enjoy dinner at renowned social enterprise restaurant, KOTO. Founded by Vietnamese-Australian Jimmy Pham, KOTO (“Know One, Teach One”) is a popular restaurant that provides hospitality training and welfare services to disadvantaged young Vietnamese, getting them off the streets and equipping them with life-changing skills and opportunities. Cycling distance: 30 km Overnight in Ho Chi Minh City.meals: B,L,D

DAY 4 Cycle to Can Tho (65km)Today we depart Ho Chi Minh City and cycle towards the lush waterways and farmland of the Mekong River Delta. One of the world’s great rivers, the mighty Mekong—Southeast Asia’s longest river—rises in China’s Tibetan Plateau and ribbons all the way down through Southeast Asia, emptying into the South China Sea south of Ho Chi Minh City. The vast alluvial plains of the Mekong Delta are the fertile food bowl of Southeast Asia, providing critical water for fishing, agriculture and transportation. We leave the busy streets of Saigon and drive to My Tho town, where we’ll hop on our bikes and cycle for around 40 km to our lunch stop in Vinh Long. From here we continue our cycle through small villages and farmland to Can Tho, the Mekong Delta’s largest city. Cycling distance: 65 km Overnight in Can Tho.meals: B,L,D

DAY 5 To Rach Gia cycle (50km)This morning we set off early for a pleasant ride along the riverside and through villages to the Cai Rang floating market, where we’ll visit a well known rice paper making village and explore the exciting floating market in a motorised sampan. After stopping for lunch at a local restaurant we’ll continue cycling towards Long Xuyen and Rach Gia, our home for the night.Cycling distance: 50 kmOvernight in Rach Gia.meals: B,L,D


Responsible TravelThe 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 and 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 www.worldexpeditions.com

Elephant WelfareFor centuries throughout Asia the elephant has been revered, as well as utilised for the purpose of logging. However in the late 80s the use of elephants in the logging industry was banned because of over‑logging, and so mahouts turned to the tourism industry

for income. As a result elephant tourism experiences have popped up throughout

Asia and it can be difficult for travellers to resist the temptation to ride these beautiful

and incredibly intelligent creatures. In recent years there has been much research into the

impact of tourism activities on elephants’ well‑being. From the brutal taming of baby

elephants called ‘the crush’ to ongoing confinement and the mere fact that the

elephants spine is not meant to carry heavy weights there are many instances where

incorrect management results in a negative impact for the elephants. Because of this World Expeditions discourages travellers

from riding on the back of elephants and we do not include elephant rides in our itineraries throughout our global program and across all

World Expeditions brands. There are a few carefully selected elephant orphanages and

sanctuaries in South East Asia and India that we include in some of our itineraries because we believe their operations put the elephants’

well‑being before the tourist experience.

Trip grading





DAY 6 To Kep, cross Cambodian border enroute cycle (60km)After breakfast we travel to Ha Tien and cross the border at Prek Chak into Cambodia, where our Cambodian guide will meet us. From here we’ll cycle to the charming beach town of Kep on the Gulf of Thailand coast. Once a popular French colonial resort town, Kep is known for its fresh seafood, crumbling French colonial villas and relaxing lazy pace. Tonight we’ll enjoy some of Kep’s famous seafood with dinner at a local restaurant. Cycling distance: 60 kmOvernight in Kep.meals: B,L,D

DAY 7 Cycle to Kampot (50km)Today we take a gentle ride towards the relaxed riverside town of Kampot, where we’ll cycle around and visit some of the town’s sights. Like Kep, charming Kampot is also home to handsome French colonial villas and a relaxing pace that makes it a favourite hang out with travelers. Today we’ll also have the option of renting kayaks and paddling around the beautiful Kampot River.Cycling distance: 50 kmOvernight in Kampot.meals: B,L,D

DAY 8 To Phnom Penh, cycle (60km)Today we set off on our bikes towards nearby Bokor National Park, where we’ll ride to foot of the hill and then drive in our support vehicle to the top of the mountain, for great views over Kampot and the Gulf of Thailand. We’ll ride back to Kampot for lunch and then continue on our bikes to Cambodia’s capital, Phnom Penh. We’ll ride most of the way before taking the support vehicle for the last 70 km or so, arriving at our hotel in the afternoon. With its handsome architecture and location at the convergence of the Mekong, Bassac and Tonle Sap rivers, Phnom Penh is regarded by many as the most beautiful of all the French-built cities in Indochina. The city has a growing fine dining and hip café culture, excellent museums and a booming arts scene, and Khmer and French influences are evident throughout the city’s ornate temples and grand colonial buildings—but its busy streets overflow with markets, motorbikes and fragrant food stalls as per most Southeast Asian cities. Cycling distance: 60 kmOvernight in Phnom Penh.meals: B,L,D

DAY 9 In Phnom PenhThis morning, transfer to the riverbanks to catch a ferry to Koh Dach, known as Silk Island. Pedal through rustic scenic villages, silk weaving workshops, pagodas and meet friendly local people along the way. Drive back to the city. Scale the steps up this small hill to see Wat Phnom Temple, the birthplace of Phnom Penh.After lunch we explore the main sights including the Royal Palace facing the Mekong River, and its adjoining Silver Pagoda built in 1962 famous for its lavish decorations of silver paved floor and several Buddha statues made from precious metals & stones. National Museum is the museum we gather and keep the statue since Angkorian period. National Museum: also called Musee des Beaux-Arts. We will spend the rest of day shopping at the Toul Tompong Market (Russian Market) where you will feel a bustling daily life of local people with Cambodia’s special character through local specialties, their houses, their faces, palaces and buildings of Khmer & colonial style architecture. • Overnight in Phnom Penhmeals: B,L,D

Introductory to ModerateTo determine the grade of a particular

adventure we consider a number of factors. These include the distances

cycled, the condition of the terrain, the altitude, and the length of the trip. The

Ho Chi Minh City to Angkor Wat Cycle is graded moderate. This trip does not take

place at altitude and most cycling surfaces are well paved roads, however some

days cycling are over rough un‑graded surfaces and the climate in Cambodia is very hot and humid. Expect cycling

time to average up to 7 hours per day.In order to complete this trip we advise that you undertake regular exercise – swimming,

cycling, jogging, for at least 45 minutes three or four times a week for a minimum

of three months prior to your departure.

Adventure TravelBy 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 NoteThese 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.


DAY 10 To Siem ReapToday is a rest day from cycling as we take a private bus to Siem Reap. We drive through picturesque countryside, stopping along the way to walk through local villages. After stopping for lunch in Kompong Thom we’ll visit Sambor Prei Kuk, an impressive collection of 7th century temple ruins that served as the capital of the pre-Angkorian Chenla Kingdom. The remainder of the afternoon is then free to explore Siem Reap at leisure.Overnight in Siem Reap.Drive time: 6-7hoursmeals: B,L,D

DAY 11 Angkor Temples (40 km)If you’re happy to rise early today, we’ll have the option of driving to Angkor Wat for an unforgettable sunrise. After breakfast back at our hotel we’ll hop on our bikes and spend a full day exploring the spectacular Angkor temples. The UNESCO World Heritage Listed site of Angkor Wat, one of the great wonders of the world, encompasses not just the one temple but an expansive religious city covering several square miles near Siem Reap—the largest religious complex in the world—including scores of temples, shrines, canals and other structures. This is one of the world’s most significant archaeological sites, and is at once an arresting and unforgettable experience to see the temples in person. With the majority of construction taking place between the 6th and 13th centuries, the temples of Angkor together form an incredible testimony to the spiritual vision and artistic genius of the Angkor civilisation that flourished and prospered from about 800 to 1400 AD. Many of the temples are still in excellent condition—especially the iconic Angkor Wat—but many structures are in states of ruin as the surrounding forests have taken over during the centuries since their abandonment. The iconic temples are intricately carved and adorned with sculpture and bas-relief depicting sacred scenes of Cambodian life and mythology. Today we’ll visit the South Gate of Angkor Thom Temple, the Bayon, the Royal Enclosure, Phimeanakas, the Terrace of Elephants and Terrace of Leper Kings, the Ta Prohm Temple and the iconic Angkor Wat. Please prepare yourself to be exposed to the sun for long intervals today. Cycling distance: 40 kmOvernight in Siem Reap.For sunrise clients need to be ready to leave hotel around 4:45-05:00am otherwise they may miss it.Appropriate attire when visiting temples in Angkor Wat is long pants (covering the knee) and shirts that cover shoulders. Skirts, small shorts, tank tops, and other items of revealing clothing are not allowed within temple grounds. Visitors can and are frequently turned away from temples when wearing revealing clothing.meals: B,L,D

DAY 12 Angkor Temples (60 km)After breakfast, you head out to Roluos group, located just outside Siem Reap. The temples date back to the late ninth century and are believed to denote the beginning of the ‘classic period’ in Khmer architecture. You will cycle to Kompong Kleang floating village, a settlement of over 20,000 people, mostly fisherman and traders. Floating over the canals, houses tower up to ten meters above the water, and you will constantly see waving hands of the friendly locals. Take your time and make the best of this opportunity to glimpse Cambodia’s countryside culture and family lifestyle, a contrast to the constant bartering you’ll find in the cities. From Kompong Khleang, you head out to the hidden jungle temple of Beng Mealea. A short walk through dense jungle brings you to the wonders of this overgrown temple which lay undiscovered for centuries Enjoy our final dinner together in one of the local restaurants with Traditional Apsara Dance Show.Cycling distance: 60 kmOvernight in Siem Reap.meals: B,L,D




DAY 13 In Siem ReapThe morning is free at leisure. We will transfer you to the airport for your flight back home.meals: B

DAY 14 Arrive AustraliaWe 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.

Places Of InterestAngkorAngkor Wat, one of the great wonders of the world, is not one temple but an expanse covering several square miles near Siem Reap, containing the remains of an early civilisation as well as many temples. Angkor was an early Cambodian civilisation that flourished and prospered from about 800 to 1400 AD. The majority of the temples were built between the 6th and 13th Centuries. Many of the temples are in excellent condition, however a large amount, are in poor repair and in need of extensive restoration. The surrounding forest has grown into and destroyed several of these magnificent works of art. Cambodian Kings of this period built many cities near Siem Reap and from Angkor the Khmer empire ruled over a vast territory that extended from the tip of what is now southern Vietnam northward to Yunnan in China, and from Vietnam westward to the Bay of Bengal. In the 9th Century, the royal palace of the Khmer had been built on a mountain named Phnom Kulen. Later the capital was moved to what is now known as Angkor Thom. In its heyday it is believed that it was home to a population exceeding 1 million, making it the largest populated city of the time. Many temples were built in Angkor Thom. These temples rank as some of the most artistic architectural wonders of the world. On the walls of these temples, there are sacred scenes of Cambodian life and mythology. So far, there is no satisfying reason why there was a dramatic decline of the Angkor Empire. In the centre of Angkor Thom is the Bayon. It has numerous towers, each with four faces looking into the directions of the four winds. Nearby there are two large areas that were once lakes and were used to store water for drinking and irrigation. Each covers an area of 17 square kms. Today, only the western lake still carries water, although only about half the original size. The temple of Angkor Wat is probably the finest monument in Cambodia. It covers an area of about 2.6 square kilometres and it is the largest religious temple in the world. It was built in the 1100’s to honour the Hindu god Vishnu. Angkor Wat later became the tomb of the Cambodian King who ordered its construction. The features found in and around the site of Angkor Wat are too numerous to list but it is guaranteed that your first sightings will leave you feeling completely overwhelmed!

CyclingWe 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 InformationVIETNAMStretching over 1,650 km (1025 mi) from north to south along the eastern coast of mainland Southeast Asia, Vietnam is a country of immense beauty and geographic diversity. The main features of Northern Vietnam are mountains, forests, the vast Red River Delta, and the beautiful Gulf of Tonkin coastline with its labyrinth of waterways and islands. Central Vietnam is made up of agricultural plains wedged between the Truong Son Mountains and the South China Sea, making for some dramatic mountain passes overlooking ocean vistas. The fertile waterways of the Mekong Delta dominate the south, and over 3,200 km of coastline and countless islands fringe the country. The country’s rich cultural identity has been steeped in the traditions of its ancient civilizations and shaped by the influences of occupation, war and communism. Since the relaxation of political and economic controls that began in the late 1980s, Vietnam has experienced both exposure to capitalist liberalism and a return to many traditional cultural practices. The country is a mosaic of different cultures, with over 50 ethnic groups officially recognised. The lingering impact of socialism is evident here, especially in the capital of Hanoi, where faded propaganda artworks adorn billboards throughout the city, but there’s never been a better time to visit this fascinating and beautiful country. There’s so much to love about Vietnam: lush mountains and great rivers, sandy beaches and tropical islands, chaotic cities and bustling markets, ancient towns and sleepy villages, tranquil lakes and peaceful pagodas, crumbling ruins and grand imperial palaces, lively culture and sophisticated cuisine, and above all, the humble nature and determined spirit of its people, that rises above the country’s dark and complex history.CAMBODIACambodia now occupies only a small portion of the area it once controlled as one of the great empires of South East Asia. The Angkor period from the 9th to 15th centuries represents the greatest period of Khmer architectural, artistic and cultural achievement, with the temples of Angkor being the most significant legacy of this sophisticated civilisation. Extensively bombed during the Vietnam‑American War, Cambodia soon after fell victim to Pol Pot and the brutal Khmer Rouge regime. The atrocities of the Khmer Rouge years have scarred the land and its people, but Cambodia today is a peaceful democratic nation blessed with a rich and proud culture, stunning natural scenery, majestic ancient ruins and colonial architecture, and a warm and spirited people that make this an exceptional destination to visit.

ClimateVIETNAM





Vietnam’s climate can vary markedly from region to region due to its extreme latitudinal span. You can go from soaring temperatures and extreme humidity in Ho Chi Minh City to cool and mild conditions in the central highlands to frosts and even occasional snow in the mountains of the north. Generally two distinct seasons prevail in Vietnam: from November to April, the temperatures are usually fairly cool, especially in the north of the country. In the mountainous areas of the north, temperatures can be as low as 0°C (32°F) and there can be a constant light drizzle. Hotter temperatures and heavy monsoon rains characterise the months from May to October, although you can experience rain at any time. The hottest months of the year are June, July and August. In Hanoi, average daily temperatures vary from a minimum of 13.7°C (57°F) to a maximum of 19.3°C (67°F) in January; to a minimum of 26.1°C (79°F) to a maximum of 32.9°C (91°F) in July. CAMBODIACambodia has a tropical monsoon climate with three distinct seasons: A rainy/monsoon season from May to October, a cool dry season from November to February, and a hot dry season from March to April. Average daily temperatures vary little from month to month, but April is the hottest month of the year, with average daily temperatures in Phnom Penh ranging from min 25°C (77°F) to max 35°C (95°F). Cambodia is generally hot, although there are transitional periods, with the best time to visit the area being between November and January, before it gets extremely hot.

Dietary RequirementsProvided 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

Hotels: in cities and large towns you will be accommodated in 4 star properties that are generally well located, atmospheric and reliable and where we have seen a good track record with traveller satisfaction over many years.Guesthouses: We use quality guesthouses. They are not luxury Inns but we make sure they offer you a truly authentic experience.

What You CarryA support vehicle is available on all cycling days to carry your luggage and you, when your legs get tired. On touring days you will be required to carry a day pack with your water bottle, camera, sunscreen and other personal items.





Equipment RequiredIt is mandatory that you wear a helmet on all bike tours. We deliberately do not supply rental helmets because only a well‑fitting helmet can offer a certain amount of protection. Cycling helmets are offered by numerous suppliers in various price and quality categories. When buying a bicycle helmet we recommend getting advice at a specialist store since finding the optimum helmet depends on quite a number of things. Avoid at all cost buying a helmet because of its looks; the main criteria should be a perfect fit. In some areas there are a limited number of helmets are available for hire but as suitability cannot be guaranteed we ask that you bring your own for the best fit and comfort

Vehicles & SafetyDuring the course of your trip, we will use a variety of vehicles, all which are fit for purpose and the conditions encountered. It should be noted that laws governing transportation safety may differ from those in your home country and on occasion some vehicles may not have seat belts fitted. While game viewing within a national park could be one example. Whilst we do not include animal rides on most of our trips, there are occasions where it may be possible to undertake them optionally and to do so is at your own risk. Note that helmets and professional riding equipment are not available in all circumstances.

What’s Not Included Bike helmet (compulsory) Alcoholic beverages and soft drinks Personal expenses such as telephone and laundry bills Additional transport required due to any emergency situation Tips & gratuities Visa costs Travel Insurance (compulsory)

Info NightsCome 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 www.humacharitychallenge.com

How To BookTo register on this Charity Challenge please complete the registration form and return to Huma Charity Challenge, Attention Scott PinnegarEmail: [email protected]: Huma Charity Challenge, Level 1 ‑ 393 Little Bourke Street, Melbourne Victoria 3000Otherwise 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 www.humacharitychallenge.com.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 Kathleen Lambrick on telephone 03 9426 8169 or email [email protected] who will be happy to talk with you.





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Epworth Ho Chi Minh to Angkor Wat Cycle Challengeepworthmedicalfoundation.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/Heart… · Epworth Ho Chi Minh to Angkor Wat Cycle Challenge rip T Highlights