What things should I avoid doing?
Do not disrespect the Monarchy, this includes speaking or acting disrespectfully in any way, including standing on money that bears the king’s image. Do not touch any Thais with your feet or put your feet up on anything. This is particularly rude.
Dress respectfully when visiting temples with your shoulders and knees covered. Also avoid renting a jet ski in Thailand, there are many who wish to scam with you claims you have damaged the jet ski and the demand high fees.
Are there any dress restrictions?
Myanmar is a very conservative country, which has only recently begun opening up to tourism. You will feel more comfortable and be more respected wearing modest clothing and avoiding short shorts and tank tops.
What is the highlight of Laos?
Luang Prabang is denitely the most popular destination and is where you can see one of the most sacred Lao traditions, the Buddhist Alms Giving Ceremony. It takes place daily as the sun rises and is a magnicent sight to see the slow procession of orange robed monks collecting alms. There is also a fantastic night market, the scenic Kuang Si Falls and the Pak Ou Caves to see here.
How long should I spend there?
Laos is often tacked on to the end or the beginning of a trip to Vietnam and/or Cambodia. So visits can range from 3 days to 10 or even 14 days if you want to really get off the beaten track. It is a super laid back place to visit, life moves very slowly here and it can be a great way to drop out for a week.
What is the best way to get around Laos?
Private vehicle transfers are the best option as well as domestic ights. There are airports in Luang Prabang, Vientiane and Phonsavan.
Is Cambodia safe to travel?
Like Vietnam, it is extremely safe. There is very little chance of terrorism or violence, however you need to be careful of opportunist thieves who snatch bags and pick pockets, particularly in Phnom Penh. For ladies, a handbag with a sturdy strap that is worn across the body is essential. For men, keep your hands in your pocket on your wallet in crowded places. And be careful of your camera and phone, these have been known to have been snatched whilst in use.
Where do I y into Cambodia?
Either Siem Reap or the capital, Phnom Penh, where the international airports are surprisingly stylish and modern. Connections to the major Asian hubs of Singapore, Hong Kong, Kuala Lumpur, Saigon, Bangkok, Da Nang and Hanoi are convenient. Sihanoukville, on the coast, has a domestic airport.
What should I wear at the Temples & Royal Palace?
Revealing clothing is not allowed in the temple grounds. Visitors must avoid short shorts and skirts as well as tank tops. If visitors want to climb to the top of Angkor Wat they MUST wear long pants or skirt to their ankles and wear a shirt covering their shoulders. A shawl around a tank top is not permitted. Wear sturdy shoes suitable for climbing steep stairs.
At the Royal Palace in Phnom Penh they are very strict. Visitors MUST wear a shirt covering shoulders, denitely not a tank top with shawl.
Do I need a guide to visit the temples?
To truly appreciate the fascinating history behind these breathtaking monoliths, a guided tour is essential. Not only will a visitor learn the history, they will also gain an insight into the Cambodian life, culture, customs and politics. The best way to know a country is through a local.
How much does it cost to enter Angkor?
A one day ticket costs US$37, a three day ticket that can be used over a period of seven days US$62. The temple pass cost will be included in the tour costs.
How long do you need in Siem Reap?
At least 3 nights. There is far more to this funky little town than the temples and it would be a shame not to spend at least 3 nights here, and even a week. The shopping is plentiful and creative, Tonle Sap lake has fascinating stilt homes on the water, the acrobatic circus will delight all ages and there are thrilling activities such as zip lining and quad bike riding. The town is full of outstanding restaurants and lively bars and many spas for a relaxing massage.
How long does it take to see the temples?
Between 1 to 3 days. The ruins sprawl out over 400sqkm, so this is going to depend upon how interested the client is in archaeology and ancient history. Generally speaking, visitors can squeeze all of the highlights into one day of temple touring and to see it a little more in detail, then a second day is recommended. A third day would give the visitors a treat, with time to see some of the more remote temples, devoid of large crowds. Some enthusiastic visitors like to spend a week in the temples.
