Hello folks,

We are scheduled to arrive in Hanoi on April 1, and eventually fly or drive about to Hue and Hoi An before flying from Danang to Singapore, and then Bali and back home to Chicago on April 16.

Should we be concerned about being stranded or otherwise affected by the Strait of Hormuz blockade? I've looked online and get conflicting ideas on how badly these countries are or will soon be affected by the Iran war.

Thanks for ideas.

Chris

With the possible exception of Indonesia, those countries are much more dependent on oil that comes through the Straits of Hormuz than say Europe or North America. Vietnam imports something like 60% of its fuel. I had read the many European airlines are considering cutting flights to SE Asia for fear on not being able to get fuel for their return journeys.

Other than the US Government, I don't think anyone can provide a definitive answer on how long the war may last or when(if) the Straits of Hormuz can be opened up.

FWIW I have been looking at option to go visit family in Australia (from London) after much searching, if I do go, it will be with a Chinese airline via HK, probably Cathay Pacific. My understanding is that they have reserves for 140 days compare with 14 for many other countries and they seem to be the only country getting deliveries through the straits at present. Getting around Asia may also be an issue, though Air Asia are v good and may be a safe bet as they are Malaysia based , a country which is self sufficient in Oil.

Having said all that, would I risk it in your situation? My feeling would be that it is not long until you go so cancellation are less likely than further down the line. Probably, but everyone has different attitude to risk - check your travel insurance carefully to see whether delays or cancellations are covered.

Thanks for your thoughtful comments!

We are leaning against canceling unfortunately. I don't like taking much of a risk when traveling so far from home and want to avoid a chance of being stranded one place or the other.

Best wishes!