Vietnam Reunification Express

Around the globe, we identify selected community projects that we can support through our trips. KOTO (Know One, Teach One) is a training centre and restaurant, established to help disadvantaged kids in Hanoi to get off the streets and into a stable living and working environment. Each year an integral part of the training is a field trip in Vietnam which this operator sponsors.

Vietnam is a charming, picturesque country with a constantly changing landscape and on this journey much of the travelling is done on board the 'Reunification Express' – so-called because it unites the former countries of North and South Vietnam. It is a fascinating and unforgettable way to witness the unfolding landscape of Vietnam, and the towns and villages along the way. The journey is punctuated with visits to many attractions and you stay in small family run hotels.

All trips are led by local Vietnamese leaders, and over the years we have developed a strong team. Many of them have developed a western sense of humour and can offer an interesting commentary on test cricket scores!

This trip is focused on respecting and benefiting the local people and the environment of this country. On this trip you will be lead by an experienced local leader passionate about their country's history, heritage and natural beauty that will help you to get 'under the skin' of their country and see it through the eyes of a local. This trip stays at locally run accommodation; we eat at local restaurants and travel on local transport. This ensures the financial return to the local economy opens up training and employment opportunities - and allows for informal and meaningful interaction between our travellers and local people.

We are constantly seeking new and innovative ways of neutralising our impact on the environment. We will become the first Australian adventure tour operator to offer a voluntary carbon offsetting option on the land component of all its tours, as well as the accompanying flights. Our Community Trust provides funds for local community projects and initiatives that promote responsible and sustainable tourism development in the destinations in which we operate. First and foremost, but not exclusively, the Trust supports projects and initiatives that advance education and employment within the tourism and hospitality industry. The Trust operates on a not-for-profit basis, with every cent of funds donated by us, our staff and our travellers, going to the nominated projects.

The maximum group size on all of our adventures is 16 passengers – with exception of some African trips (24 max) and in the Polar Regions, where our ship carries a maximum of 110 passengers. Travelling in small groups ensures we make significantly less impact on the natural environment, as well as breaking down many of the communication barriers presented by a larger group.