Tournament FAQ
Below we have compiled a short list of questions and answers to help you enjoy a smooth and worry-free tournament experience and stay in Vietnam.

GENERAL VIETNAM INFO


Q: This is my first time in Ho Chi Minh City. What should I expect?

Ho Chi Minh City (AKA Saigon) offers a full range of modern amenities, while distinctly maintaining its unique local flavor. The city boasts excellent shopping & dining, with a growing club & bar scene. The city has many interesting cultural sites, and serves as a hub for fascinating tours throughout south and central Vietnam. Transportation by taxi is convenient and inexpensive (~$0.70/km). A wide range of quality hotels are available that suit the needs of everyone from backpackers to businessmen. Ho Chi Minh City has several modern medical facilities, and boasts excellent public security.

Q: Are there any discount airlines that fly to Vietnam

Yes, there are several. Try looking for flights on Tiger Airways, Air Asia, Jetstar, Cebu Pacific or Lion Air for discount fares that can run as low as US$100 round-trip.

Q: Do I need a visa for Vietnam?

Yes, unless you are a citizen of another ASEAN country, you will need to apply for a 30-day tourist visa. Handspan Adventure Travel, the official travel sponsor of this year's tournament, is happy to provide visa-on-arrival services for our players. Please refer to our Travel and Accommodation page for details.

Q: Do I need any special shots, etc.?

In our experience, getting shots (malaria, etc.) may be more trouble than it's actually worth. Vietnam has a very low incidence of tropical diseases, especially within the urban areas. Unless you have had prior health issues, or plan to be travelling extensively through the countryside, consider shots a luxury precaution rather than a necessary preparation to come to Vietnam.

Q: What else can I see / do around Saigon?

Saigon is a perfect jumping off point for exploring the Mekong River, one of the largest rivers in the world. Handspan Adventure Travel offers a number of tour options for tournament players. Please refer to our Travel and Accommodation page for details.

TOURNAMENT INFO


Q: How do I get to the fields from downtown?

Below is a summary of your local transportation options:

Taxi: One of the easiest means to get around town, taxis are typically available at the drop of a hat. It will cost you about $7-8 to get to the RMIT fields from the city center.

Xe om: A cheaper means of transportation is a "Xe om" or a motorbike taxi, which are to be found on almost every corner. Just give directions, negotiate the price, and and off you go. From the city center to the RMIT field will cost you approximately 30,000 VND/person (about $2).

Motorbike / Bicycle: For the adventurous, you can rent a motorbike or bicycle from hotels on the Backpacker streets (Pham Ngu Lao, De Tham, Bui Vien). Be sure to wear a helmet, and drive at your own risk!

Please note, When travelling by taxi or xe om, be sure that the driver knows exactly where you want him to go. Otherwise, he may just make a wild guess and you will find yourself on a longer-than-expected joy ride! Click here for a map and directions to the fields.

Q: What is included in the players' package?

Registration fees include free fruits and beverages on the fields, lunch on both days, a tournament disc, a tournament jersey, and extra goodies!

Q: How will the weather be for the tournament?

Our tournament forecast calls for clear blue skies, a light breeze, and a daytime high temperature of about 24° to 28° C (75° to 82° F). Nights are typically cool, with temperatures ranging from about 19° to 23° C (66° to 73° F). Despite the pleasant temperatures, however, the UV rays can be quite intense, so be sure to wear sunscreen!

Q: I don't have much Ultimate experience. Can I still participate in the tournament?

Absolutely. This year's tournament will feature players of all ability levels, including a healthy crop of rookies. If this is your first tournament, then you will certainly feel at home with the friendly, fun atmosphere of Vietnam Ultimate.

Q: I'm still not sure if I can come. How late can I sign up for the tournament?

The registration deadline is December 26, 2008. When in doubt, go ahead and sign up. This will allow us to send you useful updates regarding the tournament, and will enable us to help you in arranging accommodations when you make your decision.