Passports & Visas

Climate/Time Zone

Money Matters

Currency Exchange Rates:

Credit and Debit Cards

Visa & MasterCard are widely accepted in South Korea and Ulaanbaatar, but are less likely to be accepted in more rural areas. It is suggested that travelers exchange approximately $50-100 USD in Mongolia for small purchases. American Express is not widely accepted in this part of the world (apart from at major international hotels).

Please advise your credit or debit card provider of the dates you will be traveling in order to avoid those cards being rejected by shops or ATMs.

Exchanging Money

ATM machines can be easily founded everywhere in Seoul and Ulaanbaatar, and your Adventure leader can also advise you where to exchange money upon arrival. Crisp new bills are your best bet when exchanging money, as crumpled or torn ones can be rejected.

PLEASE NOTE: We strongly recommend only exchanging the amount of money you require, as it is impossible to convert local money back to foreign currency. It is advisable to keep small notes on hand, as it is sometimes difficult to find a place to exchange money.

South Korea Basic Unit: Won

Won Division: Jeon (100 jeon = 1 won)
Jeons are no longer used for everyday transactions but appear in foreign exchange rates.
Won denominations are 100 and 500 in coins; 1000, 5000, 10,000, and 50,000 in notes.

Mongolia Basic Unit: Tughrik

Tughrik Division: Möngö (100 möngö = 1 tughrik)
Möngö coins are no longer in circulation but may be sold to tourists or collectors as souvenirs.
Tughrik coins come in denominations of 20, 50, 100, and 200.
The most common tughrik banknotes come in denominations of 1, 3, 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 500, 1,000, 5,000, and 10,000.

China Basic Unit: Yuan*
Yuan Division: Jiao (10 Jiao = 1 Yuan)
Subdivision: Fen (10 Fen = 1 Jiao)
Yuan Denominations: 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, 50, and 100 Yuan (in notes) and 1 Yuan can be coins or notes
1, 2, and 5 Jiao are in notes and coins
1, 2, and 5 Fen are in coins, and 1 Fen can be a note

* pre-trip extension only

In speaking, Yuan may be called Kwai (dollar) and Jiao may be called Mao (dime). Renminbi or "people's money" is the name of the currency; Yuan is the name of the units.

Please Note: When you buy Yuan, you may wish to keep your receipts in case you need to reexchange when you leave China. You are allowed to return no more than 50% of what you have bought.

Please Note: Credit cards and debit cards with Visa or MasterCard logo are widely accepted in South Korea and Mongolia. Traveler's check and personal checks are not accepted in many places. ATM machines are widely accessible in South Korea and Ulaanbaatar but not in our Gobi Desert locales. We suggest you to bring some USD cash to exchange into local currency for shopping at small vendors. Money can be changed at exchange Bank or Hotel Cashier.

Packing Guidelines

What to Pack

You may find the packing information below helpful as you begin to prepare for your upcoming journey.

Electronic devices
Bring your iPad, Kindles, and/or smart phones. This way you will have access to city guides, post trip survey and trip information while on tour. This will also allow you to take pictures and communicate with friends and family easier.

Luggage Restrictions

To help make your travel experience as smooth and simple as possible, Vantage suggests you limit your luggage to one large suitcase and one small carry-on bag per person. Mongolian domestic airlines have stringent luggage restrictions as follows:

Economy class: 33 pounds maximum

Please Note: Passengers are responsible for any excess baggage charges. However, you can leave some of your luggage in Ulaanbaatar before taking your flight to Gobi (Vantage can arrange storage for you). Then, simply pick up your luggage when you come back to Ulaanbaatar.

Travel Light

Most travelers pack much more than they really need. We recommend that you start packing a few days before your trip, so you have time to remember everything that you need — and to decide what is essential and what is not. And don't forget to leave room for souvenirs and gifts you may purchase during your trip.
Besides the basic necessities and the items covered below, you'll want to pack sunglasses, a hat or visor, and sunscreen for daytime use. You might also want to bring a small alarm clock, pocket tissues, travel pack of soap powder, needle, thread, safety pins, and personal face cloth. In many countries, your washcloth is considered to be of intimate usage and is not provided by hotels.
Depending on your destination, you may also want to bring insect repellent (we recommend repellent with a high "deet" content). Binoculars are also handy when traveling to areas where flora and fauna may be observed.
Some tours may also require an overnight bag for optional overnight excursions.

Casual Dress

Dress on tour is generally casual and smart casual. Gentlemen may wish to bring a sport jacket. Formal clothing is not necessary, unless you are traveling on an ocean cruise that has formal nights. If you are traveling on an ocean cruise please refer to the attire information for your particular cruise line. Your travel wardrobe should be planned according to the climate of the areas you will be visiting and the length of your stay. Average high and low temperatures for the destinations visited on each Vantage Tour are listed under "Climate". A HELPFUL HINT — plan to avail yourself of the laundry and valet services available at an additional fee.

Warm Clothes

Weather is never predictable so be sure to be prepared for just about anything. You'll want to take along a sweater or jacket for cool evenings. It's a good idea to dress in layers, which will allow you to adjust to changes in temperature.

Rain Gear

We suggest a practical raincoat or waterproof shell with a hood, and/or a fold-up umbrella. The shell could also be worn with other layers in lower temperatures.

Good Walking Shoes

One of the most important items you'll need for any vacation is, of course, comfortable walking shoes for touring. We suggest you refrain from purchasing new walking shoes just prior to departure — it's best to wear a broken-in pair that you know are comfortable.

Pool and Sauna Apparel

On many programs accommodations will feature pools. So if you plan to use them, bring along a swimsuit and pool slippers.

Cameras and Film

Be sure to test the working order of your camera before you leave home, and to insure your equipment against loss and damage. It is also important to take along an ample supply of film. Film can be expensive and specific kinds of film may not be available in certain areas. Some airport x-ray equipment may harm valuable film. For utmost protection, film should be packed separately in hand luggage. Also, be sure to bring at least one extra battery for your camera.
If you are using a digital camera, check on how many images you can take on your memory card at the resolution you are using. You may wish to bring along an extra memory card so you will not run out of memory half way through the trip. Bring along the battery charger, but remember you may need a voltage converter. The alternative is to carry a spare charged battery with you.

Valuables

Please remember that it is not wise to bring valuables with you when you travel. If you decide to do so, please carry them on your person when flying. Make sure to use hotel safe deposit boxes or safes to ensure the safety of possessions that you may want to have with you.

What to Leave Behind

Do not pack aerosol cans; they tend to leak during air travel. Also avoid packing glass bottles; use plastic containers instead. Leave at home any credit cards and checkbooks that you don't anticipate using on your trip; valuable jewelry; brand-new shoes (instead pack your most comfortable walking shoes); and, in general, anything that you would hate to lose.

Electric Current

If you wish to take along an electric iron, razor, or hair dryer, be sure they are adaptable to different currents, volts, and cycles. Most appliances will require an adapter plug and/or an electrical converter/transformer which are available for purchase at most department stores or luggage shops. These kits are available for electrical settings in countries outside the United States.
In South Korea the power sockets are Type C and F, and in Mongolia they are Type A and C. Because these do not accommodate our standard American flat-pronged appliances you will need to bring a plug adaptor. Because the standard voltage in all here countries is 220v you will also need a converter. Most electronic devices nowadays (cell phones, tablets, laptops) automatically convert to the local current.

Flight Information

Flight Information

When planning your flights, Vantage considers each airline's reputation for quality, service, and routing options to the destination. Vantage selects flights that both serve our groups' needs and ensure the best balance of quality and cost. Our flight team members will do their utmost to select flights that will get you to your destination as quickly and easily as possible.

First and Business Class Airfare Upgrades
Many of our programs offer first and/or Business Class upgrades, for more information, please visit our FlightChoice page.

Vantage encourages you to check current airport security regulations well in advance of travel, as rules may have changed since your last trip. For the latest information on airline security guidelines and boarding procedures, please visit the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) web site.

While on Tour

While on Tour

Briefing sessions

Prior to arriving at most stops on your trip, your Vantage Adventure Leader will conduct an informative briefing concerning the daily schedule, local customs, and the included features of the program. It is strongly advised that all tour members attend the briefings.

Extending Your Trip

Vantage offers specially arranged pre- and post-extensions on many of our trips. 

Additionally, if you would like to do some exploring on your own, either before or after your advneture, Vantage can help arrange the details. In most cases, your flights can be adjusted for an earlier arrival date or a later return date. A non-refundable administrative fee will be assessed, plus any additional costs that may apply to the air ticket and hotel. Transfers to and from your hotel are not included when traveling independent of a Vantage group. Please ask a Vantage Sales Representative for additional details. Note also that some airline contracts may exclude changes to routing.

NOTE: Should you wish to make any changes to your plans to extend your trip, please do so no later than 60 days prior to your scheduled date of departure. Change and cancellation penalties apply to changes made after airline tickets have been issued.

Your Health & Comfort

Vantage wants you to have a safe, healthy, and happy journey. Our journeys are planned to combine just the right amount of activity and leisure.

For personal medical attention while on your trip, your Vantage Adventure Leader can refer you to reliable physicians in the cities on your tour. Please remember that tap water is not potable on this trip -- we will provide plenty of bottled water for you while traveling with us. 

Please note that Medicare and U.S health insurance are generally not accepted in foreign destinations. If you have an insurance claim, it should be made upon your return to the USA and filed through your health insurance provider or through the Vantage Travel Protection Plan if you have purchased it. Keep relevant receipts and doctors' reports for processing your claim.

Jet Lag Precautions

When you cross several time zones to reach your destination, you often lose many hours of regular sleep. Upon arrival your body must quickly adjust to new sleeping and eating patterns. The result is jet lag. Its symptoms may include fatigue, irritability, and vague disorientation. You cannot completely avoid jet lag but you can minimize it. Here's how:

• Try to sleep on overnight flights
• Avoid heavy eating and drinking caffeine or alcoholic beverages right before - and during - your flight
• Drink plenty of water and/or fruit juice while flying
• Try to stay awake your first day until after dinner

Your Personal Safety

Please keep in mind that in any tourist destination, you need to be aware of your surroundings. We recommend that you use a money protector that can be worn around your neck. Flashy jewelry should be left at home. Never place your camera or purse down, or hang it on the back of your chair. Although incidents of theft and pickpocketing while on tour are rare, it is important to be cautious and aware.

Medical Issues

Click here to read important information about travelers with physical, emotional, or mental conditions that may require professional attention or the use of special equipment. "Medical Issues" information also appears in the "Tour Participation Agreement - Terms and Conditions" bound into Vantage catalogs and printed on the back of your Vantage invoice.

Hotels

Please note that Vantage makes every effort to reserve only hotels that offer well-appointed rooms and a convenient location. We remind you that quality of accommodations may vary from destination to destination. Vantage strives to provide the best hotels available that meet our standards of quality.

How We Rate Our Hotels

While some tour companies devise their own ratings systems (based on their particular standards), Vantage ranks hotels based on the industry-accepted classifications published by the Hotel & Travel Index - the travel industry standard.

Deluxe/Moderate Deluxe ***** Outstanding accommodations in every way, offering superior service, facilities, and location.

Superior First-Class ****+ Above average accommodations, with many special amenities, including more restaurants, shops, and usually a fitness center.

First-Class/Moderate First-Class **** Comfortable, well-equipped standard rooms with private bath and attractive public areas and amenities.

Please Note: In some areas where the hotels aren't rated, it's often due to the fact that the hotel may be too new, too remote, or too small. However, the hotel where you stay has been inspected and approved by Vantage personnel.

Religious Services

At Vantage, we count individuals from all walks of life and all religious denominations among our customers. Although we do not offer religious services on our travel programs, services may be available in the cities and towns you visit while on tour. Your Vantage Adventure Leader can advise you when religious services are available. Please keep in mind that not all religious denominations have a presence in every travel destination. We cannot guarantee the availability of religious services.

Shopping

Shopping for local merchandise is always a part of the travel experience. We are aware that local guides do recommend shops on their tours. Always keep in mind that a purchase is between the buyer and the seller. Always keep receipts and credit card copies. Shipping should always include insurance in the event of breakage. Some credit cards such as American Express also include insurance protection for purchases, but it is best to check with your card issuer for any insurance that may be included when you use your card.

Sightseeing & Cultural Discoveries

Vantage offers a variety of included sightseeing tours and special cultural events to enrich your travel experience and bring you "closer to the world." Our tours are specially designed for Vantage travelers. They let you feel the atmosphere, gain a cultural understanding, and become a part of the area you are visiting. They include all transportation and the services of expert local guides.

Optional Excursions

Vantage makes every effort to provide the right balance of both included activities and time for exploring on your own. We've found, however, that many of our passengers prefer an additional guided activity in lieu of free time. For that reason, some of our river cruises may include a limited number of optional tours and activities, which you may choose to take at a moderate fee. In no case do we replace an included sightseeing tour with an optional tour. Optional tours are strictly voluntary, providing you with the opportunity to visit an attraction that you may not see otherwise.

Transfers

All transfers between airport and hotel are included when purchasing Vantage air. However, travelers purchasing their own airline tickets will be responsible for their own round-trip transfers to and from the airport/hotel/pier based on the itinerary.

Travel Itinerary

Each Vantage adventure is planned with two criteria in mind: It must be an interesting destination and the tour must offer good quality at an exceptional value.

Although everything is planned well in advance of your departure, our ultimate goal is to ensure that each departure is enjoyable, interesting, and safe. Therefore, the day-by-day itinerary provided is subject to change depending upon local conditions. If any significant changes occur in advance of your departure, Vantage will notify you by phone or by mail. If changes occur while on tour, your Vantage Program Manager or local representative will notify you.

Your Vantage Adventure Leader / Local Representative

During your river cruise you'll be accompanied by an experienced, English-speaking Vantage Adventure Leader. You will also benefit from the insights of expert Local Representatives. Both your Adventure Leader and Local Representatives can give you suggestions on the best restaurants, shops, and local sights; help coordinate optional tours and excursions; and assist in any manner possible.

Vantage Hospitality Desk

For your convenience, a Vantage Hospitality Desk will be available during scheduled hours. The desk hours vary, depending on your daily scheduling. Tour members will be advised of the desk.

Payment Information