Understanding Vietnam’s New Visa-Free Policy

On August 8, 2025, the Vietnamese government issued Resolution No. 229/NQ-CP, a game-changer for international tourism. This resolution grants visa-free entry to citizens of 12 countries—Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, the Czech Republic, Hungary, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Poland, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, and Switzerland - for tourism purposes. Travelers from these nations can now stay in Vietnam for up to 45 days without needing a visa, regardless of their passport type. The policy, effective from August 15, 2025, to August 14, 2028, is part of Vietnam’s broader tourism promotion and development program, designed to attract more visitors to its cultural and natural treasures.

This isn’t the first time Vietnam has expanded its Vietnam visa free countries list. Earlier in 2025, the government extended visa exemptions to citizens of Poland, the Czech Republic, and Switzerland under Resolution No. 11/NQ-CP. However, that resolution will be replaced by the new policy starting August 15, 2025, streamlining the process for these countries and adding nine more to the list. With this update, Vietnam now offers unilateral visa exemptions to citizens of 24 countries, making it one of the most welcoming destinations in Southeast Asia for short-term travelers.

Additionally, Decree No. 221/2025/ND-CP, also issued on August 8, introduces a limited-term visa waiver for specific groups whose presence supports Vietnam’s socio-economic development. These include high-profile guests invited by national leaders, experts, scholars, investors, and cultural or sports figures with significant global influence. While this decree caters to a niche group, it underscores Vietnam’s commitment to fostering international collaboration and tourism.

For travelers from the newly exempted countries, this policy means less paperwork, lower costs, and more spontaneity when planning a trip to Vietnam. Whether you’re dreaming of exploring ancient temples, savoring street food, or embarking on an Educational School Trips adventure, this visa-free access makes it easier than ever to experience Vietnam’s magic.

Why Vietnam’s Visa-Free Policy Matters for Travelers

The addition of 12 more countries exempted from visa requirements is a significant step toward making Vietnam a top travel destination. For citizens of Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, and the other listed nations, this policy eliminates the need for visa applications, which can often be time-consuming and costly. With a 45-day visa-free stay, travelers have ample time to explore Vietnam’s diverse regions, from the northern highlands of Sapa to the southern beaches of Phu Quoc.

This policy also reflects Vietnam’s growing appeal as a global tourism hub. According to the Vietnam National Tourism Administration, the country welcomed 12.2 million international visitors in the first seven months of 2025, a 22% increase compared to the same period in 2024. By expanding the Vietnam passport visa free countries list, the government aims to sustain this growth, inviting more travelers to discover its unique blend of tradition and modernity.

For families, students, and group travelers, this visa-free access simplifies planning educational or cultural trips. Imagine wandering through the historic streets of Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, or learning about Vietnam’s history at the Cu Chi Tunnels without the hassle of visa applications. This policy makes such experiences more accessible, encouraging travelers to immerse themselves in Vietnam’s rich heritage.

Exploring Vietnam: Must-Visit Destinations for Visa-Free Travelers

With 45 days to explore, travelers from the Vietnam visa free countries have plenty of time to discover the country’s diverse landscapes and cultural gems. Here are some must-visit destinations to include in your itinerary:

Hanoi: The Heart of Vietnam’s Culture

Hanoi, Vietnam’s capital, is a vibrant city where tradition meets modernity. Stroll around Hoan Kiem Lake, visit the historic Temple of Literature, or explore the bustling Old Quarter with its narrow streets and colonial architecture. Hanoi is also a food lover’s paradise, offering iconic dishes like phở and bún chả. For educational travelers, the city’s museums, such as the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology, provide insights into the country’s diverse ethnic groups.

Ha Long Bay: A Natural Wonder

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Ha Long Bay is a must-see for its emerald waters and thousands of limestone karsts. Take a cruise to explore hidden caves, floating villages, and pristine beaches. The bay’s serene beauty makes it an ideal spot for photography, relaxation, and learning about Vietnam’s natural heritage.

Hoi An: A Timeless Charm

Hoi An’s ancient town is a living museum of Vietnamese culture. Its lantern-lit streets, colorful markets, and well-preserved architecture transport visitors back in time. Join a cooking class to learn about Vietnamese cuisine or visit nearby craft villages to see traditional artisans at work. Hoi An is perfect for travelers seeking a blend of history, culture, and creativity.

Ho Chi Minh City: The Dynamic South

Formerly Saigon, Ho Chi Minh City is Vietnam’s economic hub, buzzing with energy. Visit the War Remnants Museum for a sobering look at Vietnam’s history or explore the vibrant Ben Thanh Market. The nearby Mekong Delta offers day trips to floating markets and lush rice paddies, showcasing rural Vietnam’s beauty.

Sapa: The Mountains’ Magic

In northern Vietnam, Sapa is a haven for nature lovers and cultural explorers. Trek through terraced rice fields, visit ethnic minority villages, and soak in the stunning mountain views. Sapa’s cool climate and unique cultural diversity make it a refreshing contrast to Vietnam’s coastal cities.

These destinations are just the beginning. With 45 days of visa-free travel, you can also explore lesser-known gems like Da Nang’s golden beaches, Hue’s imperial citadel, or Phu Quoc’s tropical paradise. Each region offers a unique perspective on Vietnam’s culture, history, and natural beauty.

Why Vietnam Should Be Your Next Educational Adventure

For students and educators, Vietnam offers unparalleled opportunities for learning and growth. The country’s history, from ancient dynasties to modern resilience, provides a rich backdrop for educational travel. Schools and universities can organize trips to explore Vietnam’s cultural heritage, environmental conservation efforts, or sustainable tourism practices. Programs like Educational School Trips offer tailored itineraries that combine learning with adventure, ensuring students gain a deeper understanding of Vietnam’s past and present.

The visa-free policy makes it easier for groups from the 12 newly exempted countries to plan educational tours without the logistical hurdles of visa applications. Imagine students exploring the ecological diversity of the Mekong Delta, participating in cultural exchanges with local communities, or studying Vietnam’s role in global history. These experiences foster cross-cultural understanding and inspire lifelong learning.

The Bigger Picture: Vietnam’s Tourism Growth

Vietnam’s decision to expand its Vietnam passport visa free countries list reflects its ambition to become a leading tourism destination in Southeast Asia. The country’s tourism sector has seen remarkable growth, with 12.2 million international visitors in the first seven months of 2025. By removing visa barriers, Vietnam is positioning itself as a welcoming destination for travelers seeking authentic experiences.

This policy also aligns with global travel trends, where ease of access is a key factor in destination choice. For travelers from Belgium, the Netherlands, Switzerland, and other exempted countries, Vietnam now competes with other visa-free destinations like Thailand or Malaysia. The 45-day stay is particularly generous, offering more flexibility than many other countries’ visa-free policies, which often limit stays to 30 days or less.

Tips for Making the Most of Your Stay

With 45 days to explore, you can create a comprehensive itinerary that covers Vietnam’s highlights and hidden gems. Here are some ideas to maximize your visa-free adventure:

• Mix Urban and Rural Experiences: Spend a few days in Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City, then venture to rural areas like Ninh Binh or the Mekong Delta for a balanced perspective.

• Join Local Festivals: Check the lunar calendar for festivals like Tet (Vietnamese Lunar New Year) or the Mid-Autumn Festival, which offer vibrant cultural experiences.

• Try Hands-On Activities: Take a cooking class in Hoi An, learn traditional crafts in a village, or join a photography tour to capture Vietnam’s beauty.

• Support Sustainable Tourism: Choose eco-friendly accommodations or tours that support local communities, ensuring your visit has a positive impact.

Conclusion: Start Planning Your Vietnam Adventure Today

Vietnam’s new visa-free policy for citizens of 12 additional countries is a game-changer for travelers seeking an unforgettable journey. From the misty mountains of Sapa to the lantern-lit streets of Hoi An, Vietnam offers a tapestry of experiences that blend culture, history, and natural beauty. The countries exempted from visa requirements now have an incredible opportunity to explore this Southeast Asian gem without the hassle of visa applications. Whether you’re a student on an educational tour, a family seeking adventure, or a solo traveler chasing new horizons, Vietnam welcomes you with open arms.

Ready to explore Vietnam’s wonders? Start planning your Educational School Trips adventure today and discover why this vibrant country is capturing the hearts of travelers worldwide. Share your travel plans in the comments or reach out to local travel experts for personalized itineraries. Your Vietnamese journey awaits!

The post 12 More Countries Are Exempted from Visa Requirements to Enter Vietnam from August 15 appeared first on Educational School Trips.

Educational travel has long been a tool for hands-on learning, but in an age where technology is advancing at an unprecedented rate, STEM educational trips have become more critical than ever. By immersing students in science, technology, engineering, and math outside the traditional classroom setting, these trips inspire innovation, cultivate problem-solving skills, and help students see the real-world applications of their studies.

Bridging the Gap Between Textbooks and Real Life

Transforming Abstract Concepts into Reality

For many students, STEM subjects can feel abstract, filled with complex equations and theories that seem far removed from their daily lives. Science museum visits and technology workshops transform these abstract concepts into tangible experiences. When a student sees a 3D printer in action, dissects a robot, or participates in a physics experiment at a research lab, they grasp the practical applications of what they’ve learned in school.

Take, for example, a school trip to the National Museum of Singapore. Here, students don’t just read about artificial intelligence—they get to interact with it. Through hands-on workshops, they learn how robots are programmed and how algorithms function, giving them an understanding of AI that no textbook alone could provide.

Engaging in Hands-on Learning

Experiential learning is the cornerstone of STEM education. When students are placed in immersive environments—such as science labs, engineering workshops, and technology expos—they learn by doing rather than memorizing. A physics lesson about aerodynamics is far more impactful when students design and launch their own model rockets. Chemistry becomes thrilling when they conduct real experiments in a professional lab setting. These experiences make learning engaging and significantly improve knowledge retention.

Fostering Creativity and Critical Thinking

Encouraging Experimentation and Problem-Solving

STEM-focused school trips challenge students to think creatively. The essence of STEM educational trips lies not just in observing science and technology but in actively engaging with them. 

Problem-solving becomes second nature when students are placed in real-world scenarios. A visit to a marine biology research station, for instance, allows them to analyze water samples, test for pollution, and discuss conservation strategies. This hands-on experience encourages students to think critically, make hypotheses, and analyze data—skills essential for any future innovator.

Building Teamwork and Communication Skills

STEM careers often require collaboration, and school trips are a perfect opportunity to nurture teamwork. Whether students are working together to program a robot, solve an engineering challenge, or conduct a scientific experiment, they develop communication and leadership skills that will be invaluable in their future careers. 

Inspiring the Next Generation of Innovators

Exposure to Real-World Role Models

A common misconception is that only students already excelling in STEM benefit from these trips. However, the reality is quite the opposite. Exposure to new experiences often awakens a hidden passion in students who might have never considered a career in STEM.

Consider Mia, a 14-year-old who had always struggled with math. During a school trip to NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory, she participated in a coding workshop where she programmed a small rover to navigate an obstacle course. For the first time, math wasn’t just numbers on a page—it was a tool that helped her control a machine. By the end of the trip, Mia was asking how she could learn more about coding.

When students see professionals in action—whether they are engineers designing cutting-edge prosthetics or astronomers searching for exoplanets—they start to envision themselves in those roles. Technology workshops for students provide a direct pathway from curiosity to career aspirations.

Exploring Future Career Paths in STEM

Many students are unaware of the vast career opportunities within STEM. School trips expose them to emerging fields such as renewable energy, biotechnology, aerospace engineering, and artificial intelligence. Visiting laboratories, innovation hubs, and high-tech companies allows students to understand the skills required in these careers and motivates them to pursue relevant studies.

Breaking Barriers in STEM

Encouraging Diversity and Inclusion

One of the most powerful aspects of STEM-focused school trips is their ability to break down barriers. Traditionally, STEM fields have been dominated by men, but these trips play a crucial role in encouraging diversity. Programs specifically designed to engage girls in STEM—such as the Girls in Science initiative at the Thailand Museum of Natural History—help foster confidence in young female students who may not otherwise consider pursuing a career in science or technology.

Similarly, students from underprivileged backgrounds often have limited access to high-tech learning tools. STEM-focused trips provide them with opportunities they might never have had otherwise, whether it’s using virtual reality to explore the human body at a science center or launching a weather balloon during a meteorology field trip.

Addressing Financial Barriers

While the benefits of these trips are undeniable, affordability can be a challenge. Schools and educators must seek out grants, scholarships, and funding from organizations that support STEM education. Many science museums and research institutions offer subsidized programs for schools, ensuring that students from all backgrounds have access to these life-changing experiences.

Additionally, virtual STEM field trips have emerged as a cost-effective alternative. Institutions like the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum and the Monterey Bay Aquarium offer interactive online experiences that allow students to explore exhibits and engage with experts from anywhere in the world.

The Lasting Impact of STEM Educational Trips

Long-Term Benefits for Students and Society

The impact of a well-planned STEM-focused school trip extends far beyond the day of the visit. Students return to their classrooms with renewed enthusiasm, eager to dive deeper into the subjects they once found intimidating. Teachers report higher engagement levels, and many students begin exploring extracurricular STEM activities, from coding clubs to robotics competitions.

Years later, some of these students will look back and pinpoint these experiences as the moment they realized their passion for STEM. Whether it’s a future engineer inspired by a behind-the-scenes tour of an automotive factory or a budding marine biologist who first discovered her love for oceanography at an aquarium, these trips plant the seeds for lifelong learning and innovation.

As educators, parents, and policymakers, we must recognize the value of STEM educational trips and ensure they remain an integral part of the learning journey. After all, the next great scientist, engineer, or astronaut may just be waiting for their spark of inspiration—and that moment might just happen on a school trip.

At EducationalSchoolTrips, we believe in the power of hands-on learning. Through our expertly curated STEM school trips, your child will have the opportunity to engage with science, technology, engineering, and mathematics in dynamic and inspiring environments. From interactive workshops to immersive field trips, we provide experiences that spark curiosity and ignite a passion for discovery. Let us help inspire the innovators of tomorrow, today!

The post STEM-Focused School Trips: Inspiring Future Innovators appeared first on Educational School Trips.

“I would like to extend my warmest gratitude to the COVAX facility and our partners, Gavi, UNICEF, and WHO, for their tremendous as well as valuable support in procuring this latest batch of COVID-19 vaccines. With the arrival of this shipment of vaccines, Lao PDR takes another step forward in the battle against the COVID-19 pandemic,” said H.E. Associate Professor Dr. Bounkong Syhavong, Minister of Health in Laos.

According to the country’s National Deployment and Vaccination Plan (NVDP), this initial batch of vaccines will be used by the Government of Lao PDR to first immunize priority groups in the country who are at greater risk of exposure to COVID-19 and those who are most likely to develop severe symptoms from the infection.

This includes frontline healthcare workers, older adults above the age of 60, and people with underlying health conditions. Some essential workers will also be prioritized based on the nature of the job and high-risk of exposure to COVID-19 such as workers at points of entry and in quarantine centers.

In addition to the vaccines, Lao PDR received yesterday 84,000 syringes and 840 safety boxes as well procured by UNICEF, which will enable the Government of Lao PDR to commence its vaccination campaign targeting these priority groups.

The arrival of the vaccines provided by the COVAX Facility is a game-changer for Lao PDR’s ongoing fight against the COVID-19 pandemic and shows what is possible when there is a spirit of solidarity among the international community to collectively address this common threat. These COVID-19 vaccines have been carefully reviewed by WHO and assessed for quality, safety and efficacy; we are so pleased that Lao PDR has access to these vaccines just one month following their Emergency Use Listing (EUL), said Dr. Mark Jacobs, WHO Representative to Lao PDR.”

No country will be safe from the pandemic until all countries are protected. The arrival of the vaccines from COVAX in Lao PDR today is a step in the right direction towards this ultimate goal,” Dr. Jacobs explained The vaccines that will be used in Lao PDR have gone through rigorous development and safety testing procedures, where the Ministry of Health – Food and Drug Department has assessed the evidence, benefits, and risks. The AstraZeneca vaccine licensed to Serum Institute of India provided through the COVAX was authorized for emergency use by the Ministry of Health on 22 February, after being listed for emergency use by WHO on 15 February.

This is truly a momentous occasion for Lao PDR and marks a major milestone in ensuring fairer access to vaccines globally. UNICEF is proud to be playing a leading role in supplying COVID-19 vaccines to Lao PDR and contributing to strengthening the country’s capacity to handle the pandemic, stated Dr. Pia Rebello Britto, UNICEF Representative to Lao PDR. “We are especially grateful to all partners for their significant contributions to GAVI and COVAX that have made possible the delivery of vaccines to Lao PDR. As the largest procurer of vaccines to Laos, for over a decade, UNICEF is aware of the critical role of such partnerships in delivering life-saving supplies for children,” Dr. Britto added.

The arrival of the vaccines in Lao PDR marks a key milestone for the COVAX facility in its unprecedented effort to deliver at least 2 billion doses of COVID-19 vaccines by the end of 2021, in what will be the largest vaccine procurement and supply operation in history. It will be our great pleasure to be chosen as the operator for your school tours to Laos.

The post Laos Travel News: COVID-19 vaccines arrived in Lao PDR appeared first on Educational School Trips.

Japan’s rollout lagged behind other places because it asked vaccine maker Pfizer to conduct clinical trials with Japanese people, in addition to tests already conducted in six other nations — part of an effort to address worries in a country with low vaccine confidence.

Medical workers say vaccinations will help protect them and their families, and business leaders hope the drive will allow economic activity to return to normal. But the late rollout will make it impossible to reach so-called herd immunity in the country of 127 million people before the Olympics begin in July, experts say.

Japan has not seen the massive outbreaks that have buffeted the United States and many European countries, but a spike in cases in December and January raised concerns and led to a partial state of emergency that includes requests for restaurants and bars to close early. Suga has seen his support plunge to below 40% from around 70% when he took office in September, with many people saying he was too slow to impose restrictions and they were too lax.

The country is now seeing an average of about 1 infection per 100,000 people — compared with 24.5 in the United States or 18 in the United Kingdom. Overall, Japan has recorded about 420,000 cases and 7,000 deaths, according to data compiled by Johns Hopkins University.

“It didn’t hurt at all, and I’m feeling very relieved,” he told reporters while he was being monitored for any allergic reaction. “We now have better protection, and I hope we feel more at ease as we provide medical treatment,” said Dr. Kazuhiro Araki, president of Tokyo Medical Center.

About 40,000 doctors and nurses considered vulnerable to the virus because they treat COVID-19 patients who are in the first group slated to be vaccinated using shots developed by Pfizer and its Germany-based partner BioNTech — after the vaccine was authorized Sunday by Japan’s regulator. It requires two doses, though some protection begins after the first shot.

But Japan’s vaccine minister, Taro Kono, defended the delay as necessary to build confidence in a country where mistrust of vaccines is decades old. Many people have a vague unease about vaccines, partly because their side effects have often been played up by media here.

“I think it is more important for the Japanese government to show the Japanese people that we have done everything possible to prove the efficacy and safety of the vaccine to encourage the Japanese people to take the vaccine,” Kono said. “So at the end of the day we might have started slower, but we think it will be more effective.

The development of a Japanese COVID-19 vaccine is still in the early stages, so the country, like many others, must rely on imported shots — raising concerns about supply issues seen in other places as producers struggle to keep up with demand. Suga on Wednesday acknowledged the importance to strengthen vaccine development and production capability as “important crisis management” and pledged to provide more support.

To get the most from each vial, Japanese officials are also scrambling to get specialized syringes that can draw six doses per vial instead of five by standard Japanese-made syringes.

After the front-line medical workers will come inoculations of 3.7 million more health workers starting in March, followed by about 36 million people aged 65 and older beginning in April. People with underlying health issues, as well as caregivers at nursing homes and other facilities, will be next before the general population receives its turn.

Some critics have noted the vaccination drive — which requires medical workers to be carried out — adds to their burden, since Japanese hospitals are already strained by the daily treatment of COVID-19 patients. There’s an added worry that hospitals will have no additional capacity to cope with the large number of overseas visitors the Olympics would involve.

Educational School Trips will give you the latest updates about the Covid-19 and be your companion in your School Tours to Japan.

The post Japan Launches the Great COVID-19 Vaccination Campaign appeared first on Educational School Trips.

Hun Manet, the head of the Cambodian army as well as Hun Sen's eldest son, urged all Cambodians to be vaccinated and thanked China for the donation.

“I trust this vaccine and that is why I have been vaccinated with it,” he said.

Cambodia has been donated 1 million doses of the Chinese-made Sinopharm vaccine, enough for half a million people, and the first shipment of 600,000 doses arrived in Cambodia at the end of February.

Hun Sen's two sons-in-law, the government ministers, and other Cambodian officials were vaccinated at a state-run hospital. Hun Sen himself backtracked on receiving the vaccine because he is 68 years old now.

China announced it would give Cambodia 1 million doses of the Covid-19 vaccine produced by the Beijing Institute of Biological Products Co., but a date for delivering the rest of this promised amount has not yet been set.

Since the outbreak of Covid-19, Cambodia has recorded 478 confirmed cases of infection with the coronavirus, with no deaths.

Hun Sen said in February that Cambodia seeks to reserve 20 million vaccine doses to inoculate 10 million Cambodian people, roughly two-thirds of the country’s total population.

In addition to the Chinese donation, Australia has announced a grant of $28 million to purchase 3 million doses, and it is set to get 7 million doses through the World Health Organization's COVAX initiative.

The Cambodian people and their government hope the vaccine can help them to build community immunity against Covid-19. And the land of the great Khmer Empire will welcome international tourists soon.

The post Cambodia Begins Vaccination Campaign against COVID-19 appeared first on Educational School Trips.

The Expectation of Vaccination Campaign in Thailand

"I hope the vaccination will make our people safe from the spread of COVID-19 and allow our country to return to normalcy as soon as possible," Deputy Prime Minister and Health Minister Anutin Charnvirakul told.

Thailand is expected to take delivery of a further 1.8 million doses of vaccination this March and April.

A mass campaign to administer 10 million doses of vaccination a month is set to begin this June, with 61 million shots of vaccines produced by local firm Siam Bioscience.

Thailand Plans to Open Tourism to International Tourists

Thai people hope that at least 80% of Thai will get the vaccine by end of June. The government starts to open the border without quarantine from July onward. However, it is the current plan and everyone still has to wait and see how fast the vaccine goes through Thailand.

By the way, there are 5 tourist destinations which in the list to open for international travel will be Bangkok, Phuket, Samui, Pattaya, and Chiang Mai.

Educational School Trip continues to update the latest news of tourism in Thailand and gets ready to be your companion of your Thailand as well as School Tours in Asia

The post Thailand Kicks off COVID-19 Vaccination Campaign & Plans to Open Tourism appeared first on Educational School Trips.

Mr. Nguyen Huu Tho, the chairman of the Vietnam Tourism Association (VITA), said Vietnam has been recognized as one of the most successful countries in containing Covid-19 outbreaks, creating favorable conditions for the tourism industry to open up to international tourists since the beginning of the third quarter of 2021.

"Vietnam should prepare to receive international visitors from July 2021 to help the heavily-hit tourism industry recover as 95 percent of inbound travel firms have suspended operation," told Mr. Tho.

"Promoting domestic tourism could bring in revenue in short term but cannot save the tourism industry. The roadmap to opening up the international market is the best solution only," he added.

Ms. Nguyen Thi Khanh, chairwoman of Ho Chi Minh City Tourism Association (HTA), said it is vital to prepare a set of criteria for picking up international passengers as soon as possible, as a lot of countries do not require isolation of vaccinated tourists or those carrying Covid-19 negative certificates.

"The tourism industry should aim at international markets having responded effectively to the pandemic."

Vu The Binh, VITA deputy chairman, said the opening of international markets could meet with a ton of difficulties and public opposition for fears of causing more serious Covid-19 outbreaks.

However, Mr. Binh affirmed that Vietnam should avoid lagging behind other countries that recognize vaccine passports, proving a bearer's Covid-19 vaccination status.

Vietnam has been struggling with its latest Covid-19 outbreak that caused at the end of January after a 55-day clean streak, with nearly 880 community transmissions recorded. So far, this outbreak situation is basically under control, with many localities resuming non-essential services.

While the production of domestic vaccines is underway, the government has speeded up foreign procurement to inoculate prioritized groups.

Vietnam recorded a 79 percent decline year-on-year in the number of foreign visitors in 2020 due to travel restrictions amid the pandemic as the country received 3.83 million foreign tourists against a record 18 million in 2019, according to official data.

The government has closed national borders and canceled all international flights since March 25 with only Vietnamese repatriates, foreign experts, and highly-skilled workers allowed in with stringent conditions.

The government recently green-lighted the resumption of commercial flights to seven Asian destinations, mainland China, Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, Laos, Cambodia, and Thailand, but Vietnamese carriers are still not allowed to operate inbound flights.

It will be a great pleasure for Educational School Trip to be the companion of your safe and interesting Student Tours to Vietnam

The post Vietnam Could Welcome Vaccinated Foreign Tourists Starting July, 2021 appeared first on Educational School Trips.

Updated on 28/08/2020

Coronavirus (Covid-19) News & Update in Vietnam

Coronavirus (Covid-19) Cases, Deaths & Recovery

Vietnam is recognized as the most successful country world in controlling and preventing this pandemic.

Entry Conditions in Vietnam

From March 22, 2020, Vietnam has been suspending entry at all national borders for all nationalities until further declarations. The native, overseas students or diplomatic travelers are permitted to enter but they will be sent to medical camps for centralized quarantine for 2 weeks.

On June 16, 2020, the Vietnamese government proclaimed that no commercial flights to this country will be permitted before the 16^th of September 2020 except for foreign passengers who require entry for diplomatic reasons, official duties, or highly skilled workers. They will also be required to complete the compulsory 14-day quarantine.

Health Check

The authority in Vietnam has required everyone to wear face masks in all crowded places and public areas. Religious gatherings, celebrations, and all sporting and cultural activities are banned or postponed. The order of social distancing was released in April as a strong action to stop the outbreak of the Covid-19 pandemic. After 3 months without community transmission, everything seems to become its normal condition before the Coronavirus epidemic.

Tourist Attractions News & Update

Coronavirus (Covid-19) News & Update in Thailand

Health Check & Entry Condition in Thailand

From July 01, 2020, 11 groups of foreigners (see details) are allowed to enter Thailand. Travelers will be tested for Covid-19 prior to travel and on arrival in Thailand, where they will be required to undergo the compulsory 14-day quarantine. Tourists are still not considered for entry at this time. On the 23^rd of July, The government in Thailand has set August 31 as the end of the emergency decree (State of Emergency). Airports are still opened and Thai authorities are not blocking foreigners leaving for the time being.

The Resumption of Domestic Flights in Thailand

Foreign visitors whose visas expired on 26 March 2020 or thereafter will be granted automatic visa extensions until 31 July 2020 without having an application for an extension.

Tourist Attractions in Thailand Update

Most events and festivals have been canceled or postponed. The famous Songkran festival’s compensation dates will be from July 25 to July 28. Businesses to be reopened on July 01 include pubs, bars, and entertainment venues.

Coronavirus (Covid-19) News & Update in Cambodia

Entry Conditions in Cambodia

On the 20th of May, 2020, foreign travelers from France, Germany, Iran, Italy, Spain & the USA will be able to visit Cambodia. Requirements mentioned below are applied to all nationalities entering Cambodia:

• A deposit of 3,000 USD must be made by each traveler on entry to Cambodia.
• COVID-19 test with a negative result within 72 hours prior to travel.
• Proof of insurance with 50,000 USD in medical coverage
• Visa on Arrivals and E-visa is not currently available. Travelers are required to apply for visas at Cambodian Consulates or Embassies outside Cambodia.

Upon arrival in Cambodia, all travelers must undergo a COVID-19 test and remain into government facility until laboratory results are found, which may include an overnight stay.

• If one tests positive for COVID-19: People will be required to compulsory quarantine for 14 days at a facility designated by the Cambodia Government (at their own expense).
• If all travelers test negative: People have to self-isolate for 14-days at their home under the supervision of local authorities. Health authorities will then oversee another COVID-19 test on the 14th day of self-isolation.

Health Check

Health screening and temperature checks are performed at all airports. For urgent travel during the suspension period, all foreigners are now required to obtain a visa in advance. Repatriation flight for French citizens: please contact the email address consulat.phnom-penh-amba@diplomatie.gouv.fr and send a copy of your Cambodian visa and your contact details for further information.

Hotel & Accommodations Update

Various events & festivals have been canceled or postponed. Various spas, bars, restaurants, and entertainment businesses have been closed until further notice. Please contact us if you have any specific inquiries about festivals, events, shows, or attractions.

Tourist Attractions Update

Most of the events and festivals in Cambodia have been canceled or postponed. Spas, bars, restaurants, and entertainment businesses have been also closed until further notice. Please contact us if you have any specific inquiries about festivals, events, shows, or attractions.

Coronavirus (Covid-19) News & Update in Laos

Entry Conditions in Laos

On the 20^th of March, 2020, total suspension of visas (including tourist visa, visa on arrival, e-visa) at every entry point, along with the closure of all traditional checkpoints has been released except for diplomats, the staff of international organizations, business people, experts, and authorized foreign labor. All international and inter-provincial as well as traditional borders must remain closed to all people. Savannakhet International Airport has been temporarily closed until further declaration.

Health Check in Laos

Health screening and temperature checks are performed at all airports and public areas. On the first of July 2020, all sporting events, casinos are allowed to resume operations. Social gatherings, weddings, parties, and traditional festivals may now be held. Entertainment venues including karaoke bars, nightclubs, and internet cafes are still closed until further declaration.

Tourist Attractions Update

Various events and festivals in Laos have been canceled or postponed. Please contact us if you have any specific inquiries about festivals, events, or shows.

Coronavirus (Covid-19) News & Update in Myanmar

Entry Conditions in Myanmar

On the 28^th of June, 2020, the Myanmar Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced the temporary suspension of Visa on Arrival and E-visa for all countries will be extended to the 31^st of July 2020. International flight restrictions to and from Yangon International Airport have been further extended to the 31^st of July, 2020.

On the 28^th of May, 2020, the Central Committee on Prevention, Control & Treatment on Covid-19 of Myanmar announced the regulations for foreign nationals traveling to Myanmar to follow if they are granted an entry visa (once applications are available as follows:

• Foreigners will have to fulfill a 21-day quarantine in their respective country before flying, another one-week facility quarantine after arriving in Myanmar, and finally one more week of home quarantine in Myanmar, before being cleared to work in the country.
• Foreigners will also need to provide evidence they are free from Covid-19 infection (medical certification provided by a doctor or hospital).
• Foreigners have completed the one week home quarantine before flying is also required, however it is unclear what type of proof would be requested.

Land Border Closure (until further declaration)

• Tamu-Moreh border gates (Myanmar – India)
• Tachileik – Myawaddy – Kawthaung - Htee Khee border gates (Myanmar – Thailand)
• Myanmar – Bangladesh border gates
• Myanmar – China border gates
• Myanmar – Laos border gates

Health Check in Myanmar

Health screening and temperature checks are performed at all airports and public areas. A national curfew has been imposed for residents of these regions below from 10 pm to 4 am. Exceptions are made for medical and essential matters. The government has cut the night-time curfew by two hours for all states and regions including Yangon, Mandalay and Nay Pyi Taw from 12 am to 4 am

Domestic travelers are required to carry a recommendation letter of their residency from respective ward administrations when going around Myanmar, except to Yangon Region. Regional and state governments have stated that a recommendation will be required for locals while foreigners and returnees will need a letter from their companies and quarantine centers, respectively. The gatherings of more than 5 persons are not permitted. Face masks must be worn in public areas.

Tourist Attractions in Myanmar Updated

Special Notes

• Bring hand sanitizing gel
• Carefully wash hands during the day with soap and water, for at least 20 seconds. Use sanitizing gel if soap and water are not available
• Try to avoid touching eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands
• Refrain from drinking water from unknown sources

The post Coronavirus – COVID-19 News & Update in Vietnam, Thailand, Myanmar, Cambodia & Laos appeared first on Educational School Trips.

1. Safety – Is Your School Tour Safe for All Students?

“Safety above all” is a slogan not only in building but also in every single field. Therefore, you should ask the student travel operator about the safety policy first. Let’s think about whether transportations used during the itinerary are safe enough or not. Students will travel by bus or car or which kind of vehicles. Moreover, in some activities like boating in the sea or hiking in the mountains, students must be equipped properly. In case unexpected incidents happen, do they provide hotline or emergency phone numbers so that you can receive immediate support? More importantly, local guides matter because they know the lay of the land, medical attention, and other necessary places. Or even if you get troubles with the local people and you do not the local language, the in-country staff will help you tackle them.

2. Experience – Is The Travel Company Experienced In Student Travel Industry?

How long has the company been in the student travel business? What destinations have the operator traveled with students? Those are the very important questions because the experience could bring you a joyful trip ever. An experienced agent can design appropriate school tours and help you prepare and customize your trip effectively. Thanks to professional planners and tour operators, you will have an itinerary in your area of interest. Furthermore, you should choose an experienced guide who knows a wide range of personalities and interests of children and can deal with problems caused by student travelers. Also, the experienced educational travel company has long-lasting relationships with many hotels, restaurants, vendors and other related agencies, which benefit you in terms of convenience and best services. Thus, you could utilize time to educate your children or students while enjoying the school journey.

3. Flexibility - Is Your School Trip Flexible Based on Your Schedule?

Travel companies have included available tours on their websites, so you can take a glance at them. However, tailor-made tours are still the best option because people’s interests and needs are different. Let’s choose an educational travel provider that can customize your tour based on your favorite itinerary. Particular student groups have a unique desire and learning needs, thus you should opt for suitable and reasonable destinations and schedules from the available tours of the company. A student travel operator which is flexible with your specific desires is a good choice.

4. Affordability – Can You Afford Prices of The Educational School Trip?

Tour cost is nothing short of privilege when people plan to book a tour. It is very easy for all people to consult the price of a tour or anything else on the Internet. Despite the certainly different ranges of costs of many companies, you can still count an average number among them. Hence, based on that number, let’s choose the most appropriate price which suits your budget. Besides, you indeed ask the tour operator whether there are any added costs during the trip so that you can prepare for students well. Anyway, you should select a school trip company whose tour costs are all-inclusive without hidden costs or extra fees or membership fees. The reason is that some extra costs are sometimes quite expensive and go beyond your budget, which is inconvenient and annoying for all people.

5. Support – Do You Receive Full Support of The Travel Agents?

Adjacent to basic requirements like security, rich experience, flexibility and price, timing support from team leaders and travel agency is remarkably essential. You should ask very detailed information such as who will pick up and take care of your team at the airport, who will travel and give instructions before touring, who will help you buy medicines if students are sick, and so on). You may not think about them, but when troubles come, you will find supporters helpful. Therefore, handy supporters before, during and after the educational tour will facilitate both classroom lessons and trip experiences.

6. Accreditation – Is The Educational Travel Provider Officially Recognized?

When it comes to an education school trip, the core value is to teach students meaningful lessons about culture, history, religion, and so on. Your journey needs to be both joyful and educational, then it is a true school trip. Thus, reviews from clients about educational travel services are just partly reliable, you have to see whether the company is officially acknowledged by trustworthy organizations. This recognition verifies the academic quality of the trip in general and in almost all aspects such as safety, experience, and financial stability.

The post 6 Factors to Consider When Choosing a School Tour Company appeared first on Educational School Trips.

Best Things To Do in the 3 Great Elephant Sanctuaries in Thailand

Educational school trips is delighted to recommend the top 3 great ethical elephant sanctuaries in Thailand: Chiang Mai Elephant Nature Park, Krabi Elephant Sanctuary, and Phuket Elephant Sanctuary.

Chiang Mai Elephant Nature Park

Elephant Nature Park is one of the leading sanctuaries projects of the country established in Chiang Mai province since the 1990s. The park is providing a sanctuary for elephants from all over Thailand, focusing on rescued, injured and distressed elephants. In addition to being the natural environment for elephants, this is also a safe home to dogs, cats, buffaloes and many other animals from dozen of rescue projects. Here you can see them around and how they enjoy the shared sanctuary grounds. There are a lot of approaches for the elephant interaction activities, choose your favorite one.
Volunteer Activities
The park in cooperation with some educational organizations designs volunteering programs at the Chiang Mai Elephant Nature Park, particularly for students. These projects entitle volunteers to learn about elephants, agriculture and community; participate in creating a better learning experience for local children; enjoy a cultural exchange at a tribal village in the mountains of Chiang Mai.

Krabi Elephant Sanctuary

This sanctuary is known as the first basement in the town to conserve those elephants suffering from overworking in the tourism industry. In other words, it is a haven for retired and rescued elephants, also a sustainable habitat for the elephants to live in a natural environment. Teachers and students will be facilitated to interact and spend time with adorable elephants in a safe and sustainable environment. There should not have any expectations for riding and circus-dancing. A trip to Krabi Elephant Sanctuary is promising with endless fun activities for students; take your chances to gain an insightful experience about the history and behavior of these large mammals. Besides, remember to create memories that all members will cherish for a lifetime.

Phuket Elephant Sanctuary

With the same function as other elephant sanctuaries across the nation, this facility is a new home set for sick, injured and old elephants, where welcomes them with the indigenous habit. Enjoy observing the elephants going bathing from afar distance, you are not allowed to brush or clean them. The reason for this is to avoid any unnecessary stress from people surrounding when they are being bathed. It’s time for students to ask questions about elephants because your inquiries will be responded by experts with professional answers.

What Elephants Visits Brings for Thailand School Trip

We are happy to provide you with a list of accessories that you should bring to make your visit as enjoyable as possible:
+Personal travel insurance
+Sunglasses
+Cap or hat to protect from the sun
+Sunscreen
+Clothes (without worrying of getting sweaty or slightly muddy)
+Extra clothes to change
+Prescription medications (if any)
+Good walking shoes are better for your toes

Now, we believe that you can choose your most suited one from our recommendations for elephant sanctuaries in Thailand. The activities of visiting and marvel in the pleasurable wonderment of interacting with those lovely animals will surely fulfill your experience in Thai tours. Let’s join and support the elephants!

The post Top 3 Must-visit Elephant Sanctuaries For Thailand School Tours appeared first on Educational School Trips.