| Australia New Zealand International |
1800 803 205 0800 400 235 +613 9750 0112 |
About Indochina
Indochina, or the Indochinese Peninsula, is a region in Southeast Asia. It lies roughly east of India, south of China.Indochina comprises the territory of the following countries:
- VIETNAM
- LAOS
- CAMBODIA
Backpacker Hostel Accommodation & Hotels in Indochina
In Indochina there is a number of Backpacker Hostels and Hotels where we can pre - book your accommodation. If you are looking for a budget hostel bed the click here or if you are looking for more luxurious accommodation then click here.|
|  |
| Tours/Packages Related To: Vietnam |
Price: AUD $350.00
Explore the heaving streets of Hanoi, Cruise Halong Bay on a junk, Savour delicious food on deck, Swim and kayak amid stunning karst scenery
|
Price: AUD $310.00
Cruise down the waterways of the fertile Mekong Delta, See the lush farming lands of Vietnam, Taste-test yummy tropical fruits, Experience river life on a village homestay
|
Price: AUD $345.00
Stay at the stylish Blue ocean Resort, Sunbake on Mui Ne Beach, Spend a day by the pool, Spend a day in the hotel day spa, Swim in the sultry South China Sea
|
Price: AUD $440.00
Experience charming Hanoi, Learn the tricks of the trade in cooking classes, Tour local markets, Visit a traditional noodle-making village, Dine at local restaurants
|
Price: AUD $795.00
Hanoi 5* hotel, Halong Bay junk cruise, delicious food.
|
Price: AUD $530.00
Take a private tour of Vientiane, Explore the culture and cuisine of Luang Prabang, Travel along the Mekong River, See thousands of Buddha images at Pak Ou Caves, Experience the charm of slow-paced Laos
|
Price: AUD $370.00
Cu Chi Tunnels, Cao Dai Great Temple, Mekong Delta Homestay and Ho Chi Minh City
|
Price: AUD $745.00
Vientiane, Luang Prabang, Mekong River, Pak Ou Caves
|
Price: AUD $325.00
Experience the colonial charm of Hanoi, Visit the former French hill station of Sapa, Trek through the spectacular scenery of North Vietnam, Stay overnight in a hilltribe village, Mingle with colourful Montagnards
|
Price: AUD $1050.00
Phnom Penh and the magnificent temples of the Angkor Complex
|
Price: AUD $730.00
Spectacular scenery and ethnic minorities of Sapa
|
Price: AUD $480.00
|
Price: AUD $895.00
Tap into the action in Bangkok, Marvel at the beauty of Angkor, Remember the past in Phnom Penh, Travel down the Mekong to Chau Doc in Vietnam, Soak up the frenetic vibe of Saigon
|
Price: AUD $1670.00
Experience the non-stop sights and sounds of Saigon, Learn about life in the Cu Chi Tunnels, Lose yourself in a tumult of colour at the Cao Dai Great Temple, See the ancient streetscapes of Hoi An, Step into the Nguyen emperors' shoes in Hue, Enjoy a cycl
|
Price: AUD $1655.00
Hanoi's Old Quarter, overnight cruise on Halong Bay, Hue, historic Hoi An, Cu Chi Tunnels, Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)
|
Price: AUD $895.00
Explore the busy streets of Ho Chi Minh City, Visit the chilling Tuol Sleng Museum, Remember the victims of the Khmer Rouge regime at the notorious Killing Fields of Choeung Ek, Relive the glory of the ancient Khmer Empire in the temples of Angkor, Ride a
|
Price: AUD $885.00
See the sights of Ho Chi Minh City from a cyclo, Delve into the underground world of Viet Minh guerillas, Embark on a shopping spree in Hoi An, Peer into Vietnam's imperial past in Hue, Experience the magic of Halong Bay, Relax with a hot Vietnamese coffe
|
Price: AUD $885.00
Experience old Vietnam in the elegant streets of Hanoi, Enjoy a boat trip on beautiful Halong Bay, Discover the history of the Nguyen dynasty in Hue, Engage in some trade in Hoi An, Learn how longan honey is made, Embrace the energy of Ho Chi Minh City
|
Price: AUD $880.00
Shop up a storm in Hong Kong, Experience local life in Guiyang, Meet the colourful Miao people in Guizhou, Embark on a hilltribe trek from Sapa, Explore exciting Hanoi
|
Price: AUD $2435.00
Stroll the tree-lined boulevards of Hanoi, Spend a night aboard the Jewel of the Bay, Sail amongst stunning limestone scenery, Relive the days of the Nguyen dynasty in Hue, Get a suit hand-tailored in Hoi An, Crawl into the Cu Chi Tunnels, Experience the
|
Price: AUD $2510.00
Tap into the energy of Ho Chi Minh City, Take a private tour of the Cu Chi Tunnels, Take time out along the coast, Soak up the old-world atmosphere of Hoi An, Visit imperial Hue, Enjoy an overnight boat trip on Halong Bay, See old Saigon from a cyclo
|
Price: AUD $2020.00
We witness a real variety of riding and cultural sights as we work our way down the length of Vietnam. At times we will be cycling the scenic highway coastal route and also get off the beaten track into the little visited central highlands with their hill
|
Price: AUD $615.00
Bargain like a local in Bangkok's markets, Take a tuk-tuk to explore the Angkor temples, Experience rural everyday life at a Cambodian village homestay, Delve into Khmer history in Phnom Penh, Explore Sihanoukville's tropical surrounds, See the sights of
|
Price: AUD $985.00
Explore the architectural wonder of Hanoi's city centre, Experience Laos culture, Wander by the Mekong in chilled-out Vientiane, Admire the scenery of backpacker mecca Vang Vieng, Explore the hidden treasures of Luang Prabang, Take a local riverboat cruis
|
Price: AUD $755.00
Experience the beauty of Halong Bay, Explore the evocative Old Quarter of Hanoi, Delve into Vietnam's royal past in Hue, Get a tan on the sun-drenched beaches of Nha Trang, Be spellbound by the vibrant streets of Saigon
|
Price: AUD $790.00
|
Price: AUD $1350.00
Build infrastructure to support the community's needs, Teach in a rural school, Explore the Moc Chau region, Experience Vietnamese village life, Make local friends, Join like-minded travellers to work as a team, Make a Difference
|
Price: AUD $1465.00
Experience modern Vietnam in Saigon, Explore the Cu Chi Tunnels, Get a taste of local life in a Mekong Delta homestay, Relax on the beaches of Nha Trang, Have a whole new wardrobe tailored in Hoi An, Experience imperial Vietnam in Hue, Take in a water pup
|
Price: AUD $715.00
Soak up the energy of Ho Chi Minh City, Relax on Nha Trang's beaches, Stroll the atmospheric streets of Hoi An, Count the cyclos in Hue, Cruise Halong Bay, Stay on Cat Ba Island, Experience the French air of Hanoi
|
Price: AUD $1315.00
See the house where Ho Chi Minh once lived, Meet furry-faced monkeys in the Cuc Phuong National Park, Get off-the-beaten-track cycling in the remote Central Highlands, Mingle with colourful Montagnards, Take a bicycle tour of Hue, Conquer the spectacular
|
Price: AUD $995.00
Explore the evocative Old Quarter of Hanoi, Sail Halong Bay, Ride the famed Reunification Express, Visit imperial Hue, Embark on a shopping spree in Hoi An, Swim in the South China Sea, Explore Saigon by cyclo, Take a rowboat along the Mekong
|
Price: AUD $1170.00
Explore Hanoi's Old Quarter, Set sail on Halong Bay, Meet school kids in Hoi An, Eat with the locals in Ho Chi Minh City, Explore jungles and temples at Angkor Wat
|
Price: AUD $1615.00
Take part in a cooking class in Hanoi, Explore local markets in Hoi An, Enjoy a cooking demonstration in Dalat, Visit imperial Hue, Take a boat cruise in Nha Trang, Explore the Mekong Delta, Spend a night in a rural homestay, Savour the spicy cuisine of S
|
Price: AUD $940.00
Cruise scenic Halong Bay, Experience traditional village life in Chenyang, Trek through the terraces of Longji, Cycle into the countryside in Yangshuo, Be wowed by the big city lights of Hong Kong
|
Price: AUD $1025.00
Take a cyclo ride through Hanoi's Old Quarter, Cruise the majestic Halong Bay, Find a poem hat in imperial Hue, Meet local kids in Hoi An, Relax on the beach at Nha Trang, Escape the heat at the Dam Sen Water Park
|
Price: AUD $1115.00
Zoom down Bangkok's khlongs on a longtail, Bargain up a storm in Chiang Mai's night bazaar, Relax on a slow boat down the Mekong, Discover the temples of Luang Prabang, Soak up the French-inspired culture in Vientiene, Traverse the lush mountains of easte
|
Price: AUD $3425.00
Cruise in comfort across enchanting Halong Bay, Awake amidst awe-inspiring karst scenery, Tour the imperial tombs and temples of Hue, Experience the old-world air of Hoi An, Enjoy an idyllic beach break along the coast, Have a spiritual moment in the Thie
|
Price: AUD $965.00
Experience burgeoning Phnom Penh, Find traces of French elegance around Battambang, See sunrise at Angkor Wat, Dine on delicious fresh seafood in Sihanoukville, Explore rural Cambodian countryside by bike
|
Price: AUD $3040.00
Learn the photographic secrets of a successful travel photogapher, Capture the captivating chaos of Hanoi, Visit picture-perfect Halong Bay, Be charmed by the colourful H'mong people, Get snap happy in the bustling markets of Bac Ha, See the spectacular r
|
Price: AUD $1465.00
Soak up the atmosphere of Hanoi, Cruise Halong Bay, Visit the imperial relics of Hue, Chill out in charming Hoi An, Discover a slower pace of life in the Mekong Delta, Revisit Cambodia's past in Phnom Penh, See the incredible temples of Angkor, Experience
|
Price: AUD $2465.00
Experience the buzz of Bangkok, Discover lovely Luang Prabang, Enjoy the charm of laid-back Vientiane, See a water puppet show in Hanoi, Cruise Halong Bay, Visit Hue's Imperial Citadel, Dine on local delicacies in Hoi An, Take a cyclo tour of Ho Chi Minh
|
Price: AUD $1465.00
Soak up the atmosphere at jungle-covered Ta Prohm, Reflect on Cambodia's past in Phnom Penh, Take a boat ride down the Mekong, Descend into the Cu Chi Tunnels, Experience the old-world charm of Hoi An, Uncover Vietnam's imperial past in Hue, Stay overnigh
|
Price: AUD $1550.00
Be awed by the ancient temples of Angkor, Visit the notorious Killing Fields of Choeung Ek, Crunch on fried spiders in Skuon, Take a slow boat up the Mekong, Relax at a mountain retreat in Tad Fane, Go caving or tubing in Vang Vieng, Swim under the specta
|
Price: AUD $1025.00
Join a morning tai chi session in Hanoi, Buy handmade souvenirs in the vibrant Vientiane market, Chill-out in riverside Vang Vieng, Soak up the history of Luang Prabang, Take a slow boat up the Mekong, Wind down with a traditional Thai massage, Live it up
|
Price: AUD $2125.00
Soak up the riverside charms of Phnom Penh, Wander among the incredible temples of Angkor, Follow in the footsteps of Graham Greene in Ho Chi Minh City, Enjoy local hospitality at a Mekong Delta homestay, Take a boat ride among the islands off Nha Trang,
|
Price: AUD $1230.00
Discover dynamic Ho Chi Minh City, Cruise along the Mekong River, Play soldiers in the Cu Chi Tunnels, Enjoy a cool change in Dalat, Sail the sparkling waters of Nha Trang, Go bargain-hunting in Hoi An, Explore the tombs and temples of Hue, Go gibbon-spot
|
Price: AUD $920.00
Lose yourself in the chaos of Vietnam's capital, Dive into the emerald-green waters of Halong Bay, Meet the Montagnards in the mountains of Sapa, Witness H'mong courtship rituals in the amazing Love Market, Learn about Vietnam's imperial past in Hue, Expl
|
Price: AUD $1120.00
|
Price: AUD $1460.00
Explore Hanoi's evocative Old Quarter, Cruise the islands of Halong Bay, Ride a dragon boat along the Perfume River, Take in the tranquility of Hoi An, Experience the excitement of Ho Chi Minh City and its surrounds, Confront Cambodia's tragic past, Be en
|
Price: AUD $1825.00
Embark on a walking tour of historic Hanoi, Enjoy a two-day trek in scenic Sapa, Experience the Old World charm of Lijiang, Hike in the gigantic Tiger Leaping Gorge, See the Terracotta Warriors in Xi'an, Climb one of China's holiest mountains, Walk along
|
Price: AUD $1390.00
See the stylish new face of Ho Chi Minh City, Cruise the mighty Mekong, Swim in the South China Sea, Trek in the remote Central Highlands, Stay in a hilltribe house on stilts, Experience the dramatic karst scenery of Ninh Binh, Imagine wartime life in the
|
Price: AUD $2230.00
Visit the birthplace of Vietnamese independence, Meet endangered primates at Cuc Phuong National Park, Cycle country lanes in Hue, Embark on a shopping spree in Hoi An, Ride into the remote Central Highlands, Relax on a beach in Nha Trang, Put your feet u
|
Price: AUD $1225.00
Sail across stunning Halong Bay, Admire ancient royal relics in Hue, Buy a new wardrobe in Hoi An, Soak up the sun on the squeaky sand beaches of Nha Trang, Uncover Cambodia's turbulent past in Phnom Penh, Experience rural Khmer life at a rustic homestay,
|
Price: AUD $1060.00
Spice it up in Bangkok, See the amazing Angkor Wat, Experience Khmer hospitality at a traditional village homestay, Be seduced by the charms of Ho Chi Minh City, Swim in the sultry South China Sea, Stroll the 36 streets of Hanoi's Old Quarter, Discover Hu
|
Price: AUD $4045.00
Anyone taking this exciting journey will experience sights and sounds that are sure to be etches in your memory for a long time 3 of the leading countries in South East Asia.
|
Price: AUD $2030.00
Build infrastructure to support the community's needs, Teach in a rural school, Explore the Moc Chau region, Experience Vietnamese village life, Make local friends, Join like-minded travellers to work as a team, Make a Difference
|
Price: AUD $2050.00
Ride a longtail down Bangkok's khlongs, Explore the ancient temples of Chiang Mai, Cruise down the Mekong River, Swim under a waterfall in Luang Prabang, Visit laid-back Vientiane, Soak up the charm of Hanoi, Be enchanted by beautiful Halong Bay, Experien
|
Price: AUD $1760.00
See Bangkok from a longtail boat, Revel in Chiang Mai's charms, Cruise the Mekong River, Enjoy laid-back Vientiane, Sit back with a coffee in Hanoi, Experience the beauty of Halong Bay, See the amazing Longji rice terraces, Explore the magical scenery of
|
Price: AUD $1755.00
Trek the Great Wall, Experience the buzz of Beijing, Explore fascinating Xi'an, Visit ultra-modern Shanghai, Wander the dramatic landscapes of Guangxi, Hike along the rice terraces of Longji, Bargain hard in Hong Kong, Meet the hilltribes of Vietnam, Expl
|
Price: AUD $4735.00
Travel through 4 Asia countries- the "jewels of Indo-China" in 33 days. Tour Vietnam - Cambodia - Laos -Vietnam.
|
Price: AUD $1680.00
|
Price: AUD $1730.00
|
Price: AUD $1850.00
Meet the colourful Miao minority in Kaili, Experience the mountainous beauty of Yunnan, Trek through cascading rice terraces in scenic Sapa, Soak up stunning karst scenery in Halong Bay, Immerse yourself in imperial history in Hue, Swim in Nha Trang's sub
|
Price: AUD $1755.00
Taste authentic Thai cuisine in Bangkok, Experience the wonder of Angkor, Enjoy a Cambodian homestay, Relax on the sandy shores of Sihanoukville, Soak up the energy of Ho Chi Minh City, Buy yourself a whole new wardrobe in Hoi An, Cruise among the limesto
|
Price: AUD $2710.00
Build infrastructure to support the community's needs, Teach in a rural school, Explore the Moc Chau region, Experience Vietnamese village life, Make local friends, Join like-minded travellers to work as a team, Make a Difference
|
Price: AUD $2210.00
|
Price: AUD $2940.00
Climb the amazing Great Wall of China, Explore Xi'an's exotic Muslim Quarter, Hit the stylish shops of Shanghai, Trek into the homelands of Vietnam's hilltribes, Cruise past the stunning karsts of Halong Bay, Discover French flavours in Hanoi, Experience
|
Price: AUD $6520.00
Immerse yourself in the splendour of the streets of St Petersburg, Visit Soviet icons in Moscow, Experience one of the world's greatest rail journeys, Stroll along the shores of Lake Baikal, Enjoy Siberian hospitality at a local homestay, Learn about Budd
|
Security in Indochina
Indo China is a safe place to travel with 1,000's of visitors touring through every year. This is a popular destination for adventure enthusiasts, sunlovers, families and backpackers. To check any foreign office information on Indonesia you can click here.Discounted Travel Insurance
Backpacker Travel offers a range of Backpacker Insurance policies at heavily discounted rates. We understand that you are on a budget and prefer to save your money to backpack around the world. Click below to view our discounted backpacker rates...
Map of Indochina
VIETNAM
Vietnam is a country in Southeast Asia. Its neighbouring countries are China to the north, Laos and Cambodia to the west.
Regions of Vietnam
- The North, around Hanoi: from the Red River Delta to high mountains near China and the World Heritage site Ha Long Bay, the North harbours some of the most magnificent views of Vietnam in an exotic context.
- The Central Coast, around the ancient city of Hue: is the home of the still recent Vietnamese kings, and features one of the nicest old seacoast towns in Vietnam: Hoi An which is a World Heritage Site.
- The Central Highlands: are hilly and covered with lush forest, features tribes and the occasional elephant, but is still accessible to the more adventurous. Dalat, the former retreat of the French is the largest city in the Central Highlands with a great golf course and the tallest mountain nearby.
- The South: is the economic engine of Vietnam, built around Ho Chi Minh City (formerly Saigon) but also covering the lush and little-visited Mekong Delta, the rice basket of Vietnam.
Cities of Vietnam
- Hanoi - the capital
- Haiphong
- Can Tho
- Dalat - the largest city in the highlands
- Da Nang - major port in central Vietnam.
- Ho Chi Minh City - Vietnam's largest city and the economic engine of the south, formerly Saigon
- Hoi An - delightfully well-preserved ancient port, near the ruins of Mỹ Sơn
- Hue - former home of Vietnam's emperors
- Nha Trang - burgeoning beach resort
Things to do and see in Vietnam
- Con Dao island
- Cu Chi, site of the Cu Chi Tunnels
- The DMZ
- Ha Long Bay - famous for its unearthly scenery
- Kontum - A relaxed little town providing access to a number of minority villages.
- Mui Ne - beach resorts
- Phu Quoc - an island adjacent to the border with Cambodia
- Tay Ninh - main temple of the Cao Đài
- Tam Coc - Near Ninh Binh south to Hanoi with Ha Long-bay-like sceneries on rice paddies
History of Vietnam
Vietnam's history is a history of war, colonization and rebellion. Occupied by China no less than four times, the Vietnamese managed to beat off the invaders just as often. Vietnam's last emperors were the Nguyễn Dynasty, who ruled from their capital at Hue from 1802 to 1945. After a brief Japanese occupation in World War II, the Communist Viet Minh under the leadership of Hồ Chí Minh continued the insurgency against the French, with the last Emperor Bao Dai abdicating in 1945 and a proclamation of independence following soon after. The majority of French had left by 1930, but in 1948 they returned to continue the fight until their decisive defeat at Dien Bien Phu in 1954. The Geneva Conference partitioned the country into two at 17th parallel, with a Communist-led North and Ngo Dinh Diem declaring himself President of the Republic of Vietnam in the South.
US economic and military aid to South Vietnam grew through the 1960s in an attempt to bolster the Southern Vietnam government, escalating into the dispatch of 500,000 American troops in 1966 and what became known as the Vietnam War - although the Vietnamese refer to it as the American War. What was supposed to be a quick and decisive action soon degenerated, and US armed forces were withdrawn following a cease-fire agreement in 1973. Two years later, on April 30, 1975, a North Vietnamese tank drove into the South's Presidential Palace in Ho Chi Minh City and the war ended, with over 50,000 Americans and an estimated 3 million Vietnamese killed.
While the Americans are still interested in the history of the war, it is untaught history to most Vietnamese. The American Vietnamese war was only one of many that the Vietnamese have fought. Over two thirds of the current population was born after 1975. American tourists will receive a particularly friendly welcome in Vietnam, as many young Vietnamese aspire to American culture.
Climate in Vietnam
Vietnam is large enough to have several distinct climate zones.
The South is hot, humid and tropical, with temperatures hovering in the 25-30°C all year round, but it rains the most from May to November.
The North has four distinct seasons, with a comparatively chilly winter, a hot and dry summer and pleasant spring (March-April) and autumn (October-December) seasons. However, in the Highlands both extremes are amplified, with occasional snow in the winter and temperatures hitting 40°C in the summer.
The South is hot, humid and tropical, with temperatures hovering in the 25-30°C all year round, but it rains the most from May to November.
The North has four distinct seasons, with a comparatively chilly winter, a hot and dry summer and pleasant spring (March-April) and autumn (October-December) seasons. However, in the Highlands both extremes are amplified, with occasional snow in the winter and temperatures hitting 40°C in the summer.
Travel to Vietnam
Most visitors to Vietnam, except citizens of Nordic or ASEAN countries, South Korea and Japan, require a visa in advance. A single-entry tourist visa valid for 30 days and are now generally valid for all entry and exit points.
By plane - Vietnam has international airports at Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Da Nang. By train - Trains from Beijing, China, cross the border at Dong Dang and terminate in Hanoi.
By road - Vietnam and Cambodia: There is at least four border crossings that can be used by foreigners.
Bavet - Moc Bai
Kaam Samnor - Vinh Xuong
Phnom Den - Tinh Bien
Xa Xia, Vietnam/Prek Chak, Cambodia (Ha Tien crossing, Cambodian Visas not available)
Vietnam and China: There are three border crossings that can be used by foreigners:
Dongxing - Mong Cai
Hekou - Lao Cai (by road and/or rail, but no international passenger train services)
Youyi Guan - Huu Nghi Quan (Friendship Pass - by road and/or rail)
Tay Trang
Vietnam and Laos: There is at least six border crossings that can be used by foreigners:
Donsavanh - Lao Bao
Kaew Neua - Cau Treo (Keo Nua Pass)
Nam Can
Getting around Vietnam
- By plane - Flights are the fastest way to travel the distance of this long country; the trip from Hanoi to HCMC will take about 2 hours by plane.
- By train - Although more expensive than buses, trains are undoubtedly the most comfortable way to travel overland in Vietnam. There is one major train line in Vietnam, the 1723-kilometer trunk between Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, on which the Reunification Express runs. HCMC to Hanoi is more than 30 hours and is a good way to see the countryside and meet upper-middle class locals, but unless you are travelling in a sleeper car it is no more comfortable than buses.
- By bus - Long-distance bus services connect most cities in Vietnam.
- By car - International driving licenses are not accepted in Vietnam. Therefore, there are no car rental companies such as Hertz and Avis etc. However, it is quite easy to hire a car and driver for excursions and day trips. (around US$40-50 for an 8 hour day)
- By cycle - Adventurous travellers may wish to see Vietnam by motorcycle or bicycle. In cities like Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi, parking bicycles on the sidewalks is not allowed, and you'll have to go to a pay parking lot.
- By cyclo - cyclo pedicabs still roam the streets of Vietnam's cities and towns. Their drivers are notoriously mercenary and, while the ride will be slow, hot and dangerous, you'll generally need to pay more than for a motorbike for the equivalent distance. On the plus side, some drivers (particularly in the South) are very friendly and are happy to be chartered for sightseeing tours. Be aware to bargain the price before the ride.
- By boat - You will be missing a big part of Vietnamese life if you do not spend some time on a boat. Boat tours are definitely called for around Ha Long Bay, Hue, Nha Trang, and everywhere in the Mekong region.
National Holidays in Vietnam
By far the largest holiday of the year is Tết, also known as Vietnamese New Year, which takes place between late January and March following the unisolar Chinese calendar. During the three days of Tet shops close up and everybody heads home to their family, making this a somewhat difficult time to travel in Vietnam. However, hotels do stay open and the foreigner-aimed travel industry of backpacker buses continues on as normal, and travellers will be glad to know that no admission is charged to those museums and historical sites that stay open. Visitors also stand a good chance of being invited to join the festivities, often involving large quantities of food and candy (for women and kids) and alcohol, karaoke, and gambling (for the men).
Currency in Vietnam
The national currency is the dong, which has stabilized in the past few years but is difficult to find or exchange outside Vietnam. U.S. dollars are widely accepted.
Traveller cheques of well-known companies are widely accepted, but usually a small fee is charged.
ATMs are getting more and more common and can be found in bigger cities and every tourist destination. They will accept a selection of credit and bankcards, including Visa, Mastercard, Maestro or Cirrus and several other systems.
Traveller cheques of well-known companies are widely accepted, but usually a small fee is charged.
ATMs are getting more and more common and can be found in bigger cities and every tourist destination. They will accept a selection of credit and bankcards, including Visa, Mastercard, Maestro or Cirrus and several other systems.
Safety in Vietnam
Tourists are urged to refrain from beverages containing ice since it is created from local, impure water sources.
Vietnam is very keen on upholding foreign tourism, with severe punishments for crimes against tourists; therefore violent crime against foreigners is rare.
Prostitution is illegal in Vietnam and the age of consent is 18. Vietnam has laws on the books with penalties up to 20 years in prison for sexually exploiting women and children, and several other countries have laws that allow them to prosecute their own citizens who travel abroad to engage in sex with children.
Tropical diseases such as malaria, dengue fever and Japanese encephalitis are endemic in rural Vietnam. Malaria isn't as much a concern in the bigger cities such as Ho Chi Minh and Hanoi.
LAOS
Laos, formally the Lao People's Democratic Republic (Lao PDR), is one of the poorest nations in South-East Asia. A mountainous and landlocked country, Laos shares borders with Vietnam to the east, Cambodia to the south, Thailand to the west, and Myanmar and China to the north.
Regions of Laos
- Vientiane - the capital on the banks of the Mekong River
- Huay Xai - in the north, on the Mekong and the border with Thailand
- Luang Prabang - a UNESCO World Heritage City known for its numerous temples
- Luang Namtha - capital of the north, known for its trekking.
- Muang Xay - also known as Oudomxay, the capital of the multiethnic province of Oudomxay.
- Pakbeng - halfway point on the overnight slow boat between Huay Xai & Luang Prabang
- Pakse - gateway to the Wat Phu ruins and the "four thousand islands" (Si Phan Don)
- Savannakhet - in the south, on the Mekong, connected with Thailand by the Second Thai-Lao Friendship Bridge
Laos was first created as an entity in 1353, when warlord Fa Ngum declared himself the king of Lan Xang ("Million Elephants"), the kingdom was initially a Khmer vassal state. After a succession dispute, the kingdom split in three in 1694 and was eventually devoured piece by piece by the Siamese, the last fragments agreeing to Siamese protection in 1885.
The area east of the Mekong, however, was soon wrenched back from Siam by the French, who wanted a buffer state to protect Vietnam, and set up Laos as a unified territory in 1907. In 1975, after the fall of Saigon, the Communist Pathet Lao took control of Vientiane and ended a six-century-old monarchy. Initial closer ties to Vietnam and socialization were replaced with a gradual return to private enterprise, an easing of foreign investment laws, and admission into ASEAN in 1997.
The area east of the Mekong, however, was soon wrenched back from Siam by the French, who wanted a buffer state to protect Vietnam, and set up Laos as a unified territory in 1907. In 1975, after the fall of Saigon, the Communist Pathet Lao took control of Vientiane and ended a six-century-old monarchy. Initial closer ties to Vietnam and socialization were replaced with a gradual return to private enterprise, an easing of foreign investment laws, and admission into ASEAN in 1997.
Climate in Laos
Laos has three distinct seasons. The hot season is from March to May, when temperatures can soar as high as 40°C. The slightly cooler wet season is from May to October, when temperatures are around 30°C, tropical downpours are frequent, and some years the Mekong floods. The dry season from November to March, which has low rainfall and temperatures as low as 15°C.
Travel to Laos
Several ASEAN nationalities can enter Laos "visa free"; all other tourists need a tourist visa. Most nationalities are issued a 30 day entry permit stamp if they apply for a visa in advance, but only a 15 day entry permit stamp if they obtain their visa on arrival, but this seems to have changed for American travellers at least, who are now being granted a 30 day visa on arrival from Nong Khai across the Thai-Lao Friendship Bridge to Vientiane. When applying for a visa, one or two passport photos will be required (for visa on arrival, if you don't have them, a photocopy of your passport will do).
- By plane - The international airports at Vientiane and Luang Prabang are served by national carrier Lao Airlines and a few others, including Thai Airways, Bangkok Airways and Vietnam Airlines.
- By road - Minibuses are quicker and more expensive than cars, however that doesn't mean they are necessarily better. A typical VIP Bus is just an old bus by Western standards, and may be more prone to breakdowns, but they usually have more leg room which can make a long journey much more comfortable. Both types are usually air-conditioned.
A common form of local transport (less than 20 km) in Laos is the jumbo, a motorized three-wheeler mostly referred to as a tuk-tuk like in Thailand, although jumbos are somewhat larger. - By boat - Boats along the Mekong and its tributaries are useful shortcuts for the horrible roads, although as the road network improves river services are slowly drying up, and many of the remaining services only run in the wet season, when the Mekong floods. There are so-called slow boats and speedboats - the latter being tiny lightweight craft equipped with powerful motors that literally skid across the water at high speeds.
Attractions in Laos
- Ban Nalan trail - a 2 days ecotourism trekking in the north of Laos.
- Si Phan Don - the "four thousand islands" are nestled within the Mekong near the Cambodian border
- Vang Vieng - backpacker hangout in limestone caves and tubing on the Nam Song river
- Tham Nong Pafa Cave - a cave discovered in Khammouan Province in 2004; as many as 200 Buddha statues of all sizes have been found inside
- Vieng Xai
Currency in Laos
The Lao currency is the kip. As of 28 August 2007, there are around 9,600 kip to the US$.
The first ATMs have recently arrived in Vientiane, as well as in Luang Prabang, Vang Vieng and Pakse. ATMs are becoming more common. They accept MasterCard, Maestro and a few others, but do not take VISA. Relying on them is at this stage risky due to their ludicrous unreliability — but if it doesn't work the first time, keep trying every few hours.
The first ATMs have recently arrived in Vientiane, as well as in Luang Prabang, Vang Vieng and Pakse. ATMs are becoming more common. They accept MasterCard, Maestro and a few others, but do not take VISA. Relying on them is at this stage risky due to their ludicrous unreliability — but if it doesn't work the first time, keep trying every few hours.
Safety in Laos
Crime levels are low in Laos, although petty theft (bag snatching) is not unknown and seems to be on the rise.
Sexual relations between a Lao national and a foreigner are illegal unless they are married, and marriage requires special permits. Drug use in Laos will result in heavy fines and expulsion at best, and imprisonment or even execution at worst. Any criticism of the Lao government or the Communist Party in any way, shape or form is unwise.
Sexual relations between a Lao national and a foreigner are illegal unless they are married, and marriage requires special permits. Drug use in Laos will result in heavy fines and expulsion at best, and imprisonment or even execution at worst. Any criticism of the Lao government or the Communist Party in any way, shape or form is unwise.
Respect in Laos
Dress respectfully (long trousers, sleeved shirts) when visiting temples and take your shoes off before entering temple buildings and private houses.
Things in Laos happen slowly and rarely as scheduled. Keep your cool, as the natives will find humour in any tourist showing anger. They will remain calm, and venting your anger will make everybody involved lose face and is certainly not going to expedite things, particularly if dealing with government bureaucracy.
Respect for monks is part of Laotian life, and the monks take their duties seriously. Remember that monks are forbidden to touch women. Some undertake a vow of silence, and will not answer you even if they understand and speak English.
Things in Laos happen slowly and rarely as scheduled. Keep your cool, as the natives will find humour in any tourist showing anger. They will remain calm, and venting your anger will make everybody involved lose face and is certainly not going to expedite things, particularly if dealing with government bureaucracy.
Respect for monks is part of Laotian life, and the monks take their duties seriously. Remember that monks are forbidden to touch women. Some undertake a vow of silence, and will not answer you even if they understand and speak English.
CAMBODIA
The Kingdom of Cambodia (formerly known as Kampuchea) is a Southeast Asian nation bordered by Vietnam to the east, Laos to the north, Thailand to the northwest, and the Gulf of Thailand to the southwest. Siem Reap, the gateway to Angkor, now sports luxury hotels, chic nightspots, ATMs, and an airport fielding flights from all over the region, while Sihanoukville is getting good press as an up-and-coming beach destination. However travel beyond the most popular tourist destinations is still an adventure.
Regions of Cambodia
- Cardamom Mountains - west
- Central Plains - central
- Chhlong Highlands - east
- Dangrek Mountains - north
- Elephant Mountains - southwest
- Rattanakiri Plateau - east
Cities in Cambodia
- Phnom Penh - the capital
- Banlung - far north-eastern provincial capital located near some great waterfalls and national parks
- Battambang - the second biggest town, after the capital
- Kep - A Resort town not to be missed
- Koh Kong - small town border crossing town on the Thai border
- Kratie - relaxed river town in the north-east on the Mekong, and an excellent place to get close look at endangered river dolphins
- Poipet - the busiest border crossing town on the Thai border
- Siem Reap - the access point for Angkor
- Sihanoukville - seaside town in the south, also known as Kompong Som
History of Cambodia
Ever since the fall of Angkor in 1431, the once mighty Khmer Empire has been plundered by all its neighbours, plus colonial France as well. After a false dawn of independence in 1953, Cambodia promptly plunged back into the horrors of civil war in 1970 to suffer the Khmer Rouge's incredibly brutal reign of terror.
Following a five-year struggle, Communist Khmer Rouge forces captured Phnom Penh in 1975 and ordered the evacuation of all cities and towns. Over 1 million displaced people died from execution or enforced hardships. A 1978 Vietnamese invasion drove the Khmer Rouge into the countryside and touched off 13 years of fighting. As a result of the devastating politics of the Khmer Rouge regime, there was virtually no infrastructure left. Institutions of higher education, money, and all forms of commerce industries were non-existent in 1978, so the country had to be built up from nothing. UN-sponsored elections in 1993 helped restore some semblance of normalcy, as did the rapid diminution of the Khmer Rouge in the mid-1990s. A coalition government, formed after national elections in 1998, brought renewed political stability and the surrender of remaining Khmer Rouge forces.
Following a five-year struggle, Communist Khmer Rouge forces captured Phnom Penh in 1975 and ordered the evacuation of all cities and towns. Over 1 million displaced people died from execution or enforced hardships. A 1978 Vietnamese invasion drove the Khmer Rouge into the countryside and touched off 13 years of fighting. As a result of the devastating politics of the Khmer Rouge regime, there was virtually no infrastructure left. Institutions of higher education, money, and all forms of commerce industries were non-existent in 1978, so the country had to be built up from nothing. UN-sponsored elections in 1993 helped restore some semblance of normalcy, as did the rapid diminution of the Khmer Rouge in the mid-1990s. A coalition government, formed after national elections in 1998, brought renewed political stability and the surrender of remaining Khmer Rouge forces.
Climate in Cambodia
Cambodia's temperatures range from 10° to 38 °C and experiences tropical monsoons. It has two distinct seasons. The rainy season, which runs from May to October, can see temperatures raise up to 40 °C around April and is generally accompanied with high humidity. The dry season lasts from November to April when temperatures can drop to 22 °C. The best months to visit Cambodia are November to January when temperatures and humidity are lower.
Things to do and see in Cambodia
Things to do and see in Cambodia
- Angkor Archaeological Park - home of the imposing ruins of ancient Khmer civilization
- Bokor National Park - ghostly former French hill resort
- Kampong Cham - Nice countryside village on the Mekong River. Good to meet real Cambodia.
- Kompong Luong - a permanently floating town located on the Tonlé Sap
- Preah Vihear - cliff-top temple pre-dating Angkor
- Tonle Sap Lake - take a cruise across the lake past floating villages and spend a day or two at Prek Toal Biosphere Reserve, Southeast Asia's premier bird sanctuary
Travel to Cambodia
All visitors, except citizens of Malaysia, Singapore, Philippines, and Laos, need a visa to enter Cambodia. The official price for a tourist visa is US$20, and US$25 for a business visa - but expect much higher prices (US$30 or more for the tourist visa) to be demanded at border crossings.
Visas are also available "on arrival" at international airports, all six international border crossings with Thailand, some international border crossings with Vietnam, and at the main border crossing with Laos.
Visas are also available "on arrival" at international airports, all six international border crossings with Thailand, some international border crossings with Vietnam, and at the main border crossing with Laos.
- By plane - Cambodia has international airports at Phnom Penh and Siem Reap. Travellers going specifically to visit the Angkor temple ruins may prefer to use Siem Reap as it's only a few minutes away from the main sites.
- By boat - To/from Laos - There is one border crossing for tourists on the Mekong, a 90-minute speedboat ride north of Stung Treng. The border guards have few opportunities for "alternative" income, and will usually try to make a few extra dollars from scamming tourists.
- To/from Thailand - There are no ferry services between Cambodia and Thailand. However it is possible to cross the border from Thailand to Koh Kong on foot, take a 15 minute share taxi or motodop (motorbike taxi) ride, and then proceed to Sihanoukville by ferry from there (or vice-versa).
- To/from Vietnam - It's possible to travel between Ho Chi Minh City and Phnom Penh by boat, or by combination of road and boat. Fast boats leave daily from Chau Doc in Vietnam's Mekong Delta and take 5 hours to reach Phnom Penh. Chau Doc is a four-hour drive from Ho Chi Minh City. A popular overland route is to make a three-day trip, stopping at Can Tho and Chau Doc before taking the boat to Phnom Penh.
Vietnam, Laos & Cambodia - Adventure Holidays & Backpacker Tours
Vietnam
- 7 Day Hoi An Escape from $295
- 10 Day Southern Vietnam from $395
- 10 Day Northern Vietnam from $395
- 15 Day Grand Vietnam from $595
Laos
- 4 Day Laos Adventure from $389
- 7 Day Grand Laos from $599
- 4 Day Cambodia Adventure from $389
- 7 Day Grand Cambodia from $599
- 7 Day Laos & Cambodia Adventure from $689
- 18 Day Vietnam & Laos Adventure from $889
- 18 Day Vietnam & Cambodia Adventure from $950
- 22 Day Vietnam, Laos & Cambodia Adventure from $1075
- 28 Day Vietnam, & Thailand Adventure from $1575
- 35 Day Thailand, Vietnam, Laos & Cambodia Adventure from $2275
.............Links
Newsletter