The Experience
What is the cost of the ride?
In addition to your registration fee ($3,995), you will need to cover your own International flights and any transfers, hotels, meals outside of the tour inclusions. We have a 8 month payment plan or you can choose to pay in full.
To participate, it is a requirement to raise AU$5,000.
What is the cancellation policy?
Cancellation greater than 3 months out from the ride: $500 + any costs already paid
Cancellation 3 months out: 50% of total registration fee
Cancellation 2 months out: 75% of total registration fee
Cancellation 1 month out: 100% of total registration fee
Do you have payment plans for the tour costs?
Yes. You can choose to pay in full or set up a monthly payment plan according to the schedule set out in checkout.
Is the rider registration deposit tax deductible?
No, the rider registration deposit and balance payment fees are not tax deductible as they are a payment for service.
I already paid the deposit for the ride but I won’t be able to join the ride - can I still cancel my registration?
Yes. We can cancel the registration but there are no refunds on the deposit paid.
When will I get my riding kit?
Your riding kit will be ordered three months prior to the ride and this will be distributed along with any additional paid kit the night before we ride out.
What if my riding kit doesn't fit?
We will provide you with the sizing chart and leave the order until the latest date possible so that you can be as accurate with your measurements as possible. If you are unsure, please go up a size, as there are no refunds or exchanges if your kit does not fit. They are personalised with your name so once you have placed your order, that is your final selection.
What happens during ride days?
We look to ride off around 7am each morning and usually are off bikes by 3.30pm-4pm which gives you plenty of time to wash your riding kit, wash yourself and rest up. Each stage is about 25kms on average. There will be some shorter stages and a few slightly longer legs but nothing that can’t be achieved together. There will be maps available each day that provide you with a breakdown of the day.
What kind of bike will I be riding?
Hands Experiences Thailand has a fantastic range of Cannondale Hybrid bikes that are suitable for all shapes and sizes. There are three different sizes and we will collect your weight and height at the time of registration to ensure you have a bike suited to your requirements.
Can I bring my own bike seat and pedals?
Yes, you can bring your own bike seat and pedals if you choose to clip in for your riding experience. We can assure you that the seats are comfortable and suitable for the multi day touring but if you prefer your own seat that you have been training on then feel free to bring that along and we can attach to your bike.
Can I bring my own bike?
No. For all of our Thailand experiences we use our own bikes. This ensures an inclusive experience and that you are fully supported with mechanics. .
I am worried about the distance, can I make it?
At Hands, we pride ourselves on our ride experiences being inclusive. We start as a team and finish as a team. There will be faster riders and slower riders but the important thing is that we start and finish together. Support crew will be on the road to provide assistance at both the front and the back to keep the group together. If you do need to rest or sit a leg out, there are support vehicles with amazing drivers who are more than happy to have some company in the car.
What is the best way to get to the hotel from the airport?
It is the responsibility of the riders to organise their own airport transfers to the hotel. We suggest you head to the ground floor of the airport and take a metered taxi to the hotel. You will need to head to the taxi ticket line to grab a number. Look out for your taxi bay number and wait for your taxi to arrive at your assigned bay. You will need to pay the toll, which is 75 baht, and it will be expected you will have that in cash for the driver. Cost of the cab ride should be no more than 500 baht. Just a reminder you are not able to use your credit card in taxis. You can get Thai currency from the airport when you arrive.
Can I bring partners / supporters to follow the team on the bike ride journey?
There is limited accommodation along the way and we don’t want to be rejecting riders in place for supporters. You can invite your supporters to the end of the ride where they can watch you ride in and join in the celebrations. Email team@handsacrossthewater.org.au to chat about the options.
Is travel insurance compulsory? Do you have a recommended travel insurance company?
Travel insurance is compulsory for all Riders. Below are some recommended travel insurance providers. Be sure to check your Health Insurance provider as many offer travel insurance.
Fundraising
Is Fundraising Compulsory?
Yes. By fundraising a minimum of $5,000 for your ride experience, you provide 350 children in our care with access to basic necessities, healthcare and education. Importantly, you are providing them with a life of choice.
What is the best way to start my fundraising?
Getting started can be a bit daunting at first; we always say the first $1,000 is the hardest and then it gets easier. Below are our top 3 tips to get your fundraising dial off zero:
- Your online fundraising page is the most simple and effective way to kick start your fundraising. Update your page with your profile image, a story about why you are fundraising and share directly from your page to kick start those dollars coming in.
- Make a personal donation to your fundraising page. This can help set the tone for your supporters and show your commitment to your experience.
- Download our fundraising guide that includes tips and tricks for planning events, auctions and raffles to help you raise your funds.
If you need support please reach out to the team at team@handsacrossthewater.org.au
Where can I find resources to help me share the story with my network or at my fundraising event?
We have a dedicated page with fundraising tips and useful resources to help you in the lead up to your experience with us.
How do child sponsorship credits works?
If you are sponsoring one of our kids, 100% of funds paid towards your child sponsorship can be credited to your fundraising total. If you sign up now and pay the full $1200 for the year then you can have the full amount as a credit. If you signed up for a monthly $100 payment then you would be eligible for the amount paid up till the credit.
Where do I deposit cash donations?
Any direct deposit donations go into the following account with an email to be sent to Jenny - jenny.tuntevski@handsgroup.org.au to cross reference and allocate it against your fundraising.
Bank: Bendigo Bank
BSB: 633-000
Account Number: 203 568 373
SWIFT Code: BENDAU3B
Name: Hands Across The Water Australia