ARTICLE 3 – Understanding Program Types in Trip Designer
Help you quickly choose the right Program type for each day of your trip.
1. Arrival Programs
Use when: It is your first day in a city or country.
What they usually include:
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Transfer from airport to hotel
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Short rest time and, sometimes, a light activity
Optional:
Guide assistance in various languages.
Example names:
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“Arrival in Hanoi (without guide)”
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“Arrival in Ho Chi Minh City (with English‑speaking guide)”
2. Departure Programs
Use when: It is your last day before leaving a city or country.
Typical inclusions:
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Transfer from hotel to airport / station / pier
Optional:
Guide to assist at departure.
Example names:
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“Departure from Phnom Penh (without guide)”
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“Departure from Bangkok (with English‑speaking guide)”
3. Transition Programs
Use when: You are travelling between two locations.
Examples:
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“Hanoi to Hue (by flight)”
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“Hanoi to Hue (by night train)”
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“Chau Doc to Phnom Penh (by boat)”
They typically include:
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Transfers between hotels and airports/stations/piers
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Tickets for trains, boats, or other transport as specified
Transition Programs keep your journey logical and take care of all legs of the trip.
4. Free Day at Leisure
Use when: You want an open day with no fixed guided program.
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You can add optional Activities (tours, classes, etc.), or simply enjoy the destination at your own pace.
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Naming convention:
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“Hanoi Free Day at Leisure”
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“Luang Prabang Free Day at Leisure”
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These days are ideal for rest, shopping, or self‑exploration.
5. Short Package Programs (2D1N / 3D2N)
Use when: You want a pre‑designed mini‑itinerary in a specific region.
Typical characteristics:
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Duration of 2D1N or 3D2N
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Includes transport, key visits, and sometimes accommodation
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Best for mountain areas or lesser‑known regions
Example names:
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“Ha Giang – Dong Van Karst Plateau – 3D2N”
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“Pu Luong – Rice Terrace Trekking – 3D2N”
These modules help you understand how long to stay and what to do in more complex regions.
6. Quick Reference Table
| Program Type | When to Use It | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Arrival Program | First day in a city/country | Arrival in Hanoi (without guide) |
| Departure Program | Final day before leaving a city/country | Departure from Phnom Penh (with guide) |
| Transition Program | Travel between two locations | Hanoi to Hue (by night train) |
| Free Day at Leisure | Open day with optional Activities | Luang Prabang Free Day at Leisure |
| Short Package Program | Pre‑designed 2–3 day mini‑trip | Ha Giang – Dong Van Karst Plateau – 3D2N |