Bangkok to Angkor Wat - 25 days go guide · 2014-11-28 · Bangkok to Angkor Wat - 25 daysgo guide don't leave home without it A World Of Discovery Bangkok to Angkor Wat - 25 days

Bangkok to Angkor Wat - 25 daysgo guidedon't leave home without it

A World Of Discovery

Bangkok to Angkor Wat - 25 days updated on 28-11-2014

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This Go Guide has been compiled with care and good faith. It gives an accurate illustration of the proposed arrangements for this holiday. Circumstances beyond our control such as changes in local conditions, inclement weather or otherreasons could force us to make changes to this itinerary. This document does not form part of a contract between the traveller and on the go and their affiliates. Any costs shown are subject to change though are an accurate reflection ofcosts at time of writing. Please also note that visa requirements are subject to change and are the responsibility of the traveller and not that of on the go

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Join us on a journey through the incrediblecountries of Indochina from bustlingBangkok and the hill tribes of Chiang Rai toenchanting Luang Prabang in Laos and onthrough Vietnam’s spectacular Halong Bayand historic cities to Cambodia, home to thestunning temples of Angkor.

HIGHLIGHTS AND INCLUSIONS

Trip Highlights• Cu Chi Tunnels - HQ of the Viet Cong• Bangkok - Grand Palace, Wat Pho,

Original Thai Massage School, 24hrFlower Market & Khao San Road

• Chiang Mai - Doi Suthep and the summittemple, Hilltribe Museum and the nightmarket

• Ta Thon - karst scenery, lush junglelandscapes

• Wat Rhon Khung - the modern andunusual ‘White Temple’

• Chiang Rai - night market, Cabbages &Condoms restaurant, hill tribe villages ofthe Karen tribe, Mae Sai, Chiang Saenand the Opium Museum

• Chiang Khong - Thai/Laos border town

• Mekong River - cruising from ChiangKhong to Lao town of Pak Beng

• Luang Prabang - Wat Visoun, Wat Aham,Ock Pop Tok weaving centre, formerRoyal Palace, Khouangsiwaterfall, Wat Sene, Wat Xieng Thongand Pak Ou caves

• Hanoi - Hoan Kiem Lake and AncientQuarter

• Halong Bay - UNESCO Listed WorldHeritage Site

• Hue - Imperial Citadel, Royal Tombs &Thien Mu Pagoda

• Hoi An - UNESCO Listed ancient town• Saigon - Notre Dame Cathedral, Old Post

Office and War Remnants Museum• Mekong Delta - Cai Be waterways,

cottage industries and mansion home &Cai Rang floating markets

• Phnom Penh - Royal Palace, SilverPagoda, Toul Sleng and Killing Fields

• Siem Reap - temples of Angkor, floatingvillages of Tonle Sap Lake

What's Included• 24 breakfasts, 6 lunches and 3 dinner• 22 nights 3 - 4 star & special class hotels,

1 night deluxe junk boat and 1 overnightsleeper train (Junk boat: private cabin,Sleeper train: basic, 4 berth cabin.)

• Economy class flights Bangkok - ChiangMai, Luang Prabang - Hanoi, Danang -Saigon, Phnom Penh - Seim Reap

• Longtail boat ride in Bangkok, on theRiver Kok and from Thailand to Laos.Sampan and row boat journeys in theMekong Delta

• Elephant ride in the Thai countryside• Halong Bay Junk boat cruise• Bicycle ride to Tra Que village and

cooking demonstration• Airport arrival transfer day 1 and

departure transfer day 24• Guided sightseeing - Bangkok, Chiang

Mai, Chiang Rai, Luang Prabang, Hanoi,Halong Bay, Hue, Ho Ain, Mekong Delta,Saigon, Cu Chi, Phnom Penh and thetemples of Angkor

• Escorted by an English speaking Thai,Loa, Vietnamese and Cambodian tourguides.

• All relevant transfers and transportation inprivateair-conditioned vehicles

• Visa approval letter (excl. stamping feerequired upon arrival)

• Maximum group size: 24 travellers

What's Not Included• Tipping Kitty: $70 - $75 USD• Entrance Fees: $155 - $165 USD• International flights and visa. Vietnam visa

letter included - stamping fee requiredupon arrival

• Tip for your tour guides. We recommendyou allow USD$3 - 6 per day, pertraveller. Tipping your guides is an entirelypersonal gesture

DETAILED ITINERARY

Days 1-2 : Discover BangkokWednesday. Welcome to Thailand and thestart of your holiday! Upon arrival toBangkok's Suvarnabhumi Airport, after attending toimmigration, please proceed to the Arrivals Hall,EXITING VIA DOOR B, where you will be met byan On The Go Tours representative, carrying anOn The Go Tours sign. Note: our representativewill be waiting for you outside Door B, shouldyou happen to exit via Door A or Door C, pleasewalk to the Door B exit – 100m away where ourrepresentative will be waiting for you. Please showthis tour voucher to our representatives upon arrivaland ensure it is returned to you as you may needit later on your travels. If, for any reason you areunable to commence your trip as scheduled, or onarrival, you are unable to make contact with ourrepresentative within 30 minutes of waiting, pleasecall the emergency contact persons as listed onyour tour voucher. Please do not exit the airportand make your own way to the start hotel, pleasefollow the advice given by our emergency contactpersons.

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If arriving to Bangkok via Don Mueang InternationalAirport, our arrival procedure is the same asabove with the exception that after attending toimmigration and entering the Arrivals Hall, pleaseproceed to the 'Information' counter near Door No5 where our representative will be waiting for you.

Once you have met our representative you will beescorted to our awaiting transportation and a driverwill transfer you to our hotel. Upon arrival pleasegive your name to the hotel receptionist and checkinto your room. Now, the adventure begins!

For those arriving a day or two earlier than Day Oneof the tour, you can spend your time exploring andgetting acquainted with the city. Sukhumvit MRT(Sky Train) Station is located approx 500m from ourhotel. The Sky Train is inexpensive and a great wayto travel around the city.

Day One is designed to be an arrival day for allpassengers. Spend the day discovering the city,your way before heading back to the hotel thisevening for our welcome meeting hosted by yourtour guide, scheduled to commence at 6pm. Afteryou might like to join your guide and other membersof the group for a meal.

Day 2: This morning we visit the spiritual andreligious heart of the city - the striking GrandPalace. Topped by golden stupas, the complexhas been the site of royal coronations and ishome to the legendary Emerald Buddha. We’llalso visit the House of the Reclining Buddha, theOriginal Thai Massage School and the 24hr FlowerMarket before boarding longtail boats to explore thecity’s canals. Known as khlongs, the canals enablesurface water to make its way to the sea and havelong been a way of getting around Bangkok. Onour journey we’ll glide by curious stilted houses andgleaming temples whilst old men fish and childrenfolic about on the waters edge.

Our boats drop us off within walking distanceof Khao San Road, popular with backpackersand hippies. Late afternoon offers free time foryou to enjoy the many bars, restaurants, streetperformers, market stalls and tailors - that willmeasure you up for a new suit, that line this vibrantroad. Overnight - Bangkok (B:1)

Days 3-4 : Northern Thailand

This morning we transfer to the airport to catchour flight to the northern capital of Chiang Mai.With its more temperate climate, lush vegetationand blend of hill tribe cultures the city is popular

with both Thais and their guests in equal measure.Upon arrival its a quick break for lunch for thoselooking to refuel. We then set off for Doi Suthep,standing like a sentinel over Chiang Mai, with oneof the most important temples in the country on itssummit. We then return to the city stopping at theHilltribe Museum to learn more of the diversity ofthe region. In the evening your guide will take youto the night market so that you can sample some ofthe many regional dishes from the numerous smallrestaurants and stalls found there.

On day 4 we journey through spectacular karstscenery to the River Kok where we board privatelongtail boats for a glimpse of rural life along theriver banks. Arriving at a small village and takean enjoyable elephant ride through some of thesurrounding countryside. From our arrival pointcontinue to Wat Rong Khun (White Temple) - abeautiful complex of newly built white and goldentemples that are still a work in progress.

After checking into our hotel in Chiang Rai early thisevening. We'll head down to the night market fordinner at a local restaurant. Following dinner youare free to head back to the hotel or you may wish todo some last minute bargain hunting and to samplesome of the delicacies of the region.Overnight - Chiang Mai (1) Chiang Rai (1) (B:2)

Day 5 : Local Hill TribesChiang Rai - Chiang Khong. The city of ChiangRai is a great base for visiting local hill tribesand this morning we visit a Karen village wherewe may encounter the famous Long Neck tribe,so known for the neck rings that the womenwear to elongate their necks. Continuing to theborder frontier town of Mae Sai, we may have thechance to cross briefly into Myanmar and enterthe Burmese town of Tachilek (optional). At ChiangSaen we stand at a viewpoint that lets us seeboth Myanmar and Laos. We take time to visit theOpium Museum before following the banks of theMekong to Chiang Khong. this evening offers freetime,though you may consider a nice dinner at ourresort as tomorrow it's an early start. Overnight -Chiang Khong (B)

Days 6-7 : Cruise The Mekong

Monday. Chiang Khong - Pakbeng. Bright andearly we head to the immigration & customsoffice to exit Thailand. Bidding farewell to ourThai guide we cross the river by longtail boat.Meeting up with our Lao guide we attend toimmigration formalities before we're back on thewater, cruising by traditional long boat down the

Mekong River. Border crossing Point: ChiangKhong Thailand/ Ban Houeyxay Laos. Journey timeby boat: approx 6 hours. Serene and timeless Laosis often overlooked by travellers. A peaceful nationof people offering legendary hospitality, resilienceand friendliness, Laos is old Asia preserved. Aswe travel downstream we stop off at a numberof minority villages such as the Hmong, Yao andKhmu to get an understanding of their culture andway of life. Upon arrival in Pakbeng, we visit thelocal market to watch the colourful hill tribe tradetheir wares before retiring for the night. Lunch anddinner included.

On day 7 Pakbeng - Luang Prabang. We continueour cruise arriving to the golden city of LuangPrabang mid afternoon, lunch included. Journeytime: 6 hours. After some rest and relaxation bythe hotel swimming pool or a wonderful massageat the hotel spa, we meet with our Luang Prabangtour guide for a quick introduction to the area.Overnight - Pakbeng (1), Luang Prabang (1)(B:2, L:2, D:1)

Day 8 : Luang PrabangConsider rising early this morning to view the dailyritual of saffron-clad monks and their processiondown the streets of Luang Prabang collecting almsfrom the residents. If attending you'll meet anothergroup of On The Go travellers who commencedtheir tour in Vientiane. Many of the group membersyou will meet today will also be travelling all the wayon to Cambodia.

Later, together we commence our sightseeing tourof this enchanting city, starting with a visit to theoldest temple in Luang Prabang, Wat Visoun, andthe banyan tree graced grounds of Wat Aham, westop at the Ock Pop Tok weaving centre. Later wemarvel at the former Royal Palace, now a nationalmuseum and home to gilded rooms and Buddhaartifacts.

In the afternoon we stop at ethnic minority villagesbefore arriving at the beautiful Khouangsi waterfall.Dip in the turquoise pools or take a walk alongthe forest trails. Tonight there is the option to learnto cook tasty local cuisine at a local restaurant.Overnight - Luang Prabang (B)

Day 9 : Wat Xieng Thong

Discover more of Luang Prabang’s holy sites witha morning visit to Wat Sene and the magnificentWat Xieng Thong. Then we set sail on a sceniccruise up the Mekong River to visit the incrediblePak Ou caves, which are crammed with Buddha






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images of all shapes and sizes, stopping at villagesen route to sample local rice wine and shop for localhandicrafts. Overnight - Luang Prabang (B)

Days 10-11 : Fly to HanoiFriday. Luang Prabang - Hanoi. Today offers freetime for you to relax by the swimming pool or furtherexplore Luang Prabang. Elephant rides, cyclingand kayaking can be arranged locally. Late thisafternoon we fly from Luang Prabang to Hanoi inVietnam. Our flight arrives at approximately 19:20and hotel check in is likely to be around 9pm. It's agood idea to have a late lunch before leaving LuangPrabang and to pack some snacks as arriving to thehotel will be the first opportunity to have dinner.

Day 11 - Today offers free time for you toexplore Vietnam’s gracious capital. Lively markets,beautiful lakes, ancient pagoda’s and the thriving,historic old city, are all easily navigated on foot.Early this evening our welcome meeting takesplace. Please check the our welcome letter givento you upon arrival for the exact time. Overnight -Hanoi (B:2)

Day 12 : Junk boat cruising

Hanoi – Halong Bay. A scenic drive early thismorning leads us to the stunningly beautifulUNESCO World Heritage Site of Halong Bay.Boarding our traditional wooden junk boat we cruisethe emerald waters soaking up the panoramic vistaof the thousand or so karst limestone islands thatstud the bay.

Later opt for a refreshing swim in one of themany sheltered coves before taking row boats tothe floating fishing village of Vong Vieng. Tonight,there's a Vietnamese cooking demonstration heldon the sundeck before an impressive seafooddinner is served. Overnight - Halong Bay, DeluxeJunk Boat (B, L, D)

Day 13 : Halong Bay

Halong Bay - Hanoi - Hue. Start the day witha Tai Chi class on the sundeck or a traditionalmassage. After exploring a lofty grotto hiddenbeneath towering cliffs, we return to port.

Arriving to Hanoi mid afternoon an hour or sois spent exploring the quixotic web of streets,known as the ‘36 streets of the old quarter’ bycyclo (rickshaw). The motorbike swarming narrowlanes are each named after various guilds of thecity’s artisan who established themselves herecenturies ago. There is Silver Street, Silk Street,Comb Street, Paper Street and more. We explorethe maze of rambling streets framed by narrowfront tube houses and may have a chance tosample the exotic fruits, sizzling noodle dishesand delightfully sticky snacks being offers by thepavement vendors.

After time to freshen up we board our overnighttrain (4 berth sleeper cabin, basic standard) onthe ‘Reunification Express’ railway line to Hue.Overnight - Sleeper train (B)

Day 14 : Imperial Hue

Breakfast boxes will be served on the train. Arrivingto Hue, we disembark and drive to our hotel. Ifrooms are ready we can check in, if not we'll departshortly after on a guided sightseeing tour of the19th-century Nguyen empire capital. We visit theThien Mu Pagoda, home to the oldest monasteryin the city, whose 21m high tower has becomesomething of a symbol for Hue and the citadel.Within the citadel is the Imperial Purple Palace, anexact copy of the Forbidden City in Beijing, withits impressive ramparts, formal moats and imperialpalaces, some of which lay in ruin.

In the countryside lies the Royal Tombs of theNguyen kings, here we’ll view the elaboratemausoleums of Emperors Tu Duc and Khai Dinh.

As the sun sets opt for a cruise in a long boatalong the gentle Perfume River or enjoy someretail therapy at the ever lively Dong Ba Market, aminute's walk from our hotel. Overnight - Hue (B,L)

Days 15-17 : Delightful Hoi An

Hue - Road of the Ocean Clouds - Hoi An. Today wetake the scenic Hai Van Pass (Road of the OceanClouds), which offers magnificent views of beachesto one side and lush hills to the other. En routewe stop for a walk along China beach, featured inFrancis Ford Coppola’s movie ‘Apocalypse Now’.Perhaps enjoy a refreshing swim inthe sea before continuing our journey south alongthe coast to Hoi An.

The charming, old-world trading port of Hoi Anwith it cobbled streets, traditional homes and tinyshop houses is a perfect place to lose yourselfin a by gone era. Boutique restaurants, hip cafesalong the waterfront, delightful craft shops andartisans including some of Asia’s best bespoketailors (whose services come at a nominal price),all can be found here.

On a short walking tour of the enchanting historicaltown, we’ll visit the Chua Ong Pagoda, ChineseAssembly Hall, 200-year-old Tam Ky house, formermerchants’ homes and the 400 year-old JapaneseCovered Bridge.

Day 16 &17 - A bicycle ride into the countryside,leads us to Tra Que village. Here,we discover ageold farming practices and learn about traditionalmedicine. It’s a hands on experience today wherewe’ll assist with tending the fields and gardens andcooking lunch. Day 17, offers free day for you relaxor further sightsee. You may wish to take a relaxingrowboat journey along the river or spend the daylazing by the beach or hotel pool. It’s also possibleto take an optional excursion to the most holiestand evocative of Vietnam’s Cham sites, My Sonor to Quang Ngai, the site of the My Lai massacrememorial. The massacre was a significant turningpoint in the Vietnam War and the story is toldthrough photo presentation on a walk through thevillage. Overnight - Hoi An (B:3, L:1)

Days 18-19 : Mekong & SaigonHoi An - Saigon. Early morning flight to Saigon.Drive to the Mekong Delta. Often referred to asthe ‘rice bowl’ of Vietnam, the fertile Mekong Deltais famous for its abundant harvests of tropicalfruits, flowers and rice, as well as it fantastic viewswhile boating along the canals. Taking our sampan






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from Vinh Long we’ll cruise downstream from CaiBe through the maze of waterways watching thehubbub of daily life on the river. Passing colourfultrading boats, house boats and children swimmingwe stop to visit some of the local cottage industriesthat produce popcorn, coco candies and paperalong the way. Lunch is served today in a traditionalwooden home on Dong Hoa Hiep Island.

Day 19 - Can Tho - Saigon. Early taking longboatswe cruise by the colourful and lively Cai Rangfloating markets before driving back to Saigon.Once called the Pearl of the Orient, modern Saigonis a thriving metropolis on the move. Sleek skyscrapers, gourmet restaurants, designer malls andswanky bars and spas are scattered betweenancient pagodas, colonial era landmarks and livelystreet markets. Our walking tour of Saigon includesvisits to the Notre Dame Cathedral, Old Postoffice and the sombering War Remnants Museum.Evening at leisure. Overnight - Can Tho (1),Saigon (1) (B:2, L:1)

Days 20-21 : Phnom Penh

Saigon - Phnom Penh. This morning we visit thefamous Cu Chi Tunnels, a sprawling undergroundnetwork of tunnels and living quarters used bythe Viet Cong during the war. Then we drive tothe Cambodian border (crossing at Moc Bai/Bavet)and continue on to the capital of Phnom Penh.Today the nation’s capital offers a bustling mix ofAsia’s past and present, a city quickly taking itsplace amongst the trendy capitals of the region withsuperb restaurants and a number of attractions.Included dinner this evening.

Day 21 - Today we’ll enjoy a full day sightseeingtour of Phnom Penh. The National Museum of FineArts, a graceful terracotta building of traditionaldesign, houses the world’s finest collection ofKhmer sculpture. We continue with the RoyalPalace and Silver Pagoda, famed for its lavishdecorations – the floors are paved with silvertiles and statues of Buddha are encrusted withthousands of diamonds.

We later come face to face with the horrors of thePol Pot regime as we visit Toul Sleng (SecurityPrison - S21), a school that was gruesomelytransformed into a torture chamber under theKhmer Rouge, and visit the Killing Fields whereover 10,000 people were executed. Overnight -Phnom Penh (B:2, D:1)

Day 22 : Angkor Wat

Phnom Penh – Siem Reap. Hotel check out andtransfer to the airport for your included flight to SiemReap.

After time to freshen up we visit the last capitalof the Angkorian Empire – Angkor Thom. Thismonumental fortified city is encircled by a 100mwide moat and is famed for the huge statue headsthat glare down from every angle. We continueto the monastic complex of Preah Khan beforeheading to the mother of all temples – Angkor Wat.This breathtaking monument of man’s devotion tohis gods is believed to be the largest religiousbuilding in the world and contains thousands ofwall carvings and extensive bas-reliefs. In theevening we enjoy a walking tour of the old market.Overnight - Siem Reap (B)

Day 23 : Ta Phrom

Early this morning opt to see Angkor Wat bathedin the spectacular golden light of sunrise. Later, wehead out to Banteay Srei temple, considered bymany to be the art gallery of Angkor with some ofthe best stone carvings in the world. Cut from stoneof a pinkish hue, the Hindu temple is dedicated toShiva and contains highly decorated libraries andintricate reliefs of divinities.

The temple expedition continues with visits toBanteay Samre, East Mebon, Preah Khan, BanteayKdei, Pre Rup and the atmospheric Ta Prohm, atemple slowly being swallowed by the musculartrees of the jungle. There are plenty of great barsand restaurants in the compact city centre, easilynavigated on foot. Overnight - Siem Reap (B)

Day 24 : Lake Tonle Sap

This morning we visit the Roluos group of temples(Bakong, Lolei and Preak Ko), the earliest largeand permanent temples built by the Khmers. Themonuments mark the dawn of Khmer classical art,dating from the late 9th century, with elaborateinscriptions in the ancient Hindu language ofSanskrit. Later visit the floating village of KompongPluk. Houses built on soaring stilts hover overthe Tonle Sap Lake whilst nearby, the petrifiedtrees of a flooded forest are revealed whenever thewater level drops. Afternoon and evening at leisure.Overnight - Siem Reap (B)

Day 25 : Siem Reap - your waySaturday. Today marks the end of our holiday.Lap up the hotel facilities this morning before hotelcheck out and included departure transfer to theairport.(B)

Full Moon Festival Hoi An tour- 23 Aug 2014If travelling on our tour departing 23 Aug 2014,your tour includes arrangements and activitiesassociated with the Full Moon Festival taking placein Vietnam at this time of year. Arrangements areas follows:Day 11: This morning offers free time for youto explore the wide tree lined avenues, beautifullakes and ancient pagoda’s and thriving old city.Meeting with our Vietnamese guide at 2pm we setof on foot to explore Hanoi’s charming Old Quarterknown as the ‘36 streets of the old Hanoi’. Thereis Silver Street, Silk Street, Comb Street, PaperStreet and importantly Hang Ma street where we’llbrowse and learn about the history and traditionsof Vietnam’s Full Moon Festival. there may evenbe deliciously sweet traditional Mooncakes to beshared. Overnight - Hanoi

Days 12 - 15: Arrangements as per normal

Day 16: Today marks the height of the Full MoonFestival and we will be celebrating with the locals.This morning we ride by rickshaw to a local homeon the outskirts of Hoi An where we will learn aboutthe family’s long tradition of lantern-making andhandcraft our own lanterns for tonight’s festivities.Heading into town we explore the local market stallsand authentic lantern shops before free time to visitone of the many great tailor shops, take a row boatdown the river or spend the afternoon relaxing bythe hotel swimming pool.






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Tonight we make our way to the waters edge withhundreds of locals to release our lanterns and enjoythe spellbinding spectacle of hundreds of sparklinglights sailing down river and lighting up the nightsky. Overnight - Hoi An

Day 17: A bicycle ride into the countryside, leadsus to Tra Que village. Here,we discover ageold farming practices and learn about traditionalmedicine. It’s a hands on experience today wherewe’ll assist with tending the fields and gardens andcooking lunch. Overnight - Hoi An

Day 18 onward: Arrangements as per normal.

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO

Cambodia Country Guide

Health RequirementsIt is recommended that you be vaccinated forTetanus and Polio, if you haven't had a booster inthe last ten years. Food and waterborne diseasesare more common, so we recommend vaccinationsfor typhoid (valid 3 years), Hepatitis A (validityvaries) and Diphtheria.

Malaria in CambodiaAreas with malaria: Present throughout the country,except none at the temple complex at Angkor Wat,Phnom Penh, and around Lake Tonle Sap.Estimated relative risk of malaria for travellers:Moderate

Information provided by the Centre for DiseaseControl & Prevention, USA and is offered asguidance only.

Yellow fever is not present in Cambodia buta yellow fever vaccination certificate is requiredfrom those travelling from an infected region.Vaccination and health information can change soplease contact your local health care provider forthe most up to date information prior to travelling.

ClimateCambodia has a tropical monsoon climate with twoseasons; Rainy season from May to November,when the countryside is lush and green, and dryseason from late November to April, when thereare long days of glorious sunshine and clear skies.Temperatures in Cambodia remain fairly constantand warm throughout the year, apart from in thenorth, when winters (December to March) aregenerally colder.

Guides and GroupsOur longest group tour in Southeast Asia is ourBangkok to Angkor Wat - 25 day tour. All othergroup tours that we offer are sectors of this largertour. As such on your holiday you may havetravellers join you part way through your tour (inLuang Prabang, Hanoi or Saigon) or end their tourwhen you continue on.

Guiding: In Cambodia, a Cambodian nationalguide is offered for arrangements through to Phnom

Penh, then a specialist local guide, will take over foryour sightseeing of the Temples of Angkor.

If travelling on our Thailand & Angkor Templestour, your Cambodian tour guide will meet youupon arrival to Siem Reap Airport and conduct allarrangements from there forward till your return toThailand.

Time & VoltageCambodia is 7 hours ahead of Greenwich MeanTime(GMT).

The voltage in Cambodia is 230v. In Cambodia 3types of plugs are commonly accepted: 2 flat prongplugs (type A), the 2 round pin european plug (typeC) and many of the new 4 and 5 star hotels usethe British standard 3-pin plug (type G). To coverall bases, it is best to pack an international traveladaptor!

CurrencyUSD is also widely accepted in Cambodia andeven preferred in larger stores and supermarkets.However, the Riel is more practical and economicalfor purchasing incidentals and paying taxi drivers.Banks will exchange all major currencies withrelative ease. There are now ATMs withinternational access in major cities which dispenseUS dollars. US Dollars, Euro, Pound Sterlingand other major currencies can be convertedto Cambodian Riel locally in most banks andinternational airports, money exchangers are alsoplentiful and often offer a slightly better rate thanbanks. However foreign currency is also widelyaccepted and often desired more so can give theshopper more buying power. ATMs can be foundin all larger towns and cities and some five starhotels. We recommend you take a mixture of cash(preferably USD) and credit/ debit cards for ATM's.

• USD 1 = KHR4,000• GBP 1 = KHR6,670• EURO 1 = KHR5,500• AUD 1 = KHR3,600

KHR = Cambodian Riel. (subject to fluctuation).

Holiday MoneyFunds collected in Cambodia for entrance fees andtip kitty (if applicable to your holiday) is payable inUSD.

Essential Packing• Lightweight cotton garments. Ladies will

need to have their shoulders and legs (tillbelow the knee) covered when visiting theRoyal Palace in Phnom Penh. Please packaccordingly.

• Comfortable walking shoes in addition toflip flogs/ thongs

• DEET based mosquito repellant &antihistamine cream

• Bring a 2 flat prong (type A) and a 2 roundpin (type C) electrical adaptors. A universaladaptor will cover all bases

• Lightweight, fold up raincoat/ poncho/umbrella.

• Two spare passport photos & a photocopyof your passport

• A small daypack for your day-to-day needs.• Sunglasses, hat, sunscreen, swim costume

and torch

VisasBritish, Australian, Canadian, New Zealand, SouthAfrican and USA passport holders are able to obtaina 30 day tourist visa upon arrival to Cambodiawhen entering via Pochentong International Airportin Phnom Penh, Siem Reap International Airport(in the Angkor Wat Region) and at the Moc Bai(Vietnam) and Bavet (Cambodia) land border. Weuse the Moc Bai/Bavet land border crossing forall our group tours that travelling from Vietnam toCambodia.

At each of these entry points you must submit aphotocopy of your passport (identification page)and one passport size photograph. The cost of thevisa is currently USD30. Note: at the land bordersometimes immigration will ask for more. In thissituation point to the sign above the ticket windowindicating that the cost is actually USD30 (subjectto change). Further, you are best to give the exactamount i.e. USD30 as often if you give more youwill not receive change.

It is also possible to obtain a 30 day tourist visa priorto arrival via the Cambodian Embassy in your homeport, though please note tourist visas arranged withthe embassy are valid for one month from date ofissue, not date of arrival.

PLEASE NOTE: Your passport must be valid forat least 6 months after your departure date, if itis not you may be refused entry into the country.Visa requirements are subject to change and visaprocurement is solely the responsibility of thetraveller and not of On The Go Tours.

Laos Country Guide


Malaria in LaosAreas with malaria: All, except none in the cityof Vientiane. Estimated relative risk of malaria fortravellers: Very low.


Yellow fever is not present in Laos but a yellowfever vaccination certificate is required from thosetravelling from an infected region. Vaccination andhealth information can change so please contactyour local health care provider for the most up todate information prior to travelling.






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ClimateNovember through to April are the best monthsto travel to Laos, when the weather is warmand dry and the nights are comfortable and cool.Temperatures typically begin to rise around Marchand the rain arrives in May or June. From Junethrough to August the humidity can rise and shorttropical downpours are common. September andOctober can still bring the occasional shower.

Guides & GroupsOur longest group tour in Southeast Asia is ourBangkok to Angkor Wat - 25 day tour. All othergroup tours that we offer are sectors of this largertour. As such on your holiday you may havetravellers join you part way through your tour (inLuang Prabang, Hanoi or Saigon) or end their tourwhen you continue on.

Guiding: A local national guide will escort the groupfor all arrangements in Laos.

Time & VoltageLaos is 7 hours ahead of Greenwich MeanTime(GMT).

The voltage in Laos is 220AC, 50HZ. Plugs are notstandard as many electical products are importedfrom China and Thailand. As such all sort of socketvariations exist. The most common types found are:2 flat prong (type A), the 2 round pin (type C) plugs.To cover all bases, it is best to pack an internationaltravel adaptor!

CurrencyThree currencies are used interchangeably foreveryday transactions. These are Kip (LAK), Thaibaht (THB) and USD. All major currencies areexchangeable in the main towns but USD is themost useful currency (cash) to hold as it canbe exchanged and used in most places. Dollarbills must be in good condition and not torn orripped. In smaller towns and villages, LAK isusually preferred. The rule of thumb is that foreveryday small purchases, prices are quoted inLAK. ATMs are only available in Vientiane andLuang Prabang and dispense a maximum of approxUSD$70 (in LAK) at any one time. Licensed moneychangers exist in Vientiane and Luang Prabang.Their rates are similar to the banks and they stayopen longer. We recommend you take a mixture ofcash (preferably USD) and credit/ debit cards forATM's.

• USD 1 = LAK 7,800• GBP 1 = LAK11,800• EURO 1 = LAK10,800• AUD 1 = LAK7,000

LAK = Lao Kip. (subject to fluctuation).

Holiday MoneyFunds collected in Laos for entrance fees and tipkitty (if applicable to your holiday) are payable inUSD.

Essential Packing• Sleep sheet if taking an overnight sleeper

train. These also can be easily purchasedin Hanoi at a cost of USD$5

• Lightweight cotton garments.• Comfortable walking shoes in addition to

flip flogs/ thongs• DEET based mosquito repellant &

antihistamine cream• Bring a 2 flat prong (type A) and a 2 round

pin (type C) electrical adaptors. A universaladaptor will cover all bases

• Lightweight, fold up raincoat/ poncho.• Two spare passport photos & a photocopy

of your passport• A small daypack for your day-to-day needs.• Sunglasses, hat, sunscreen, swim costume

and torch

Arrival TransfersIf your tour or short stay includes an airport arrivaltransfer (as indicated in the 'What you Get' sectionof this Go Guide) our arrival procedure is as follows:

Arrive in Laos at Wattay International Airport, attendto immigration by completing an immigration formand submitting your photograph and visa fee, thencollect your luggage and proceed to the arrivalshall.

As you enter the arrivals hall, look for our on the gorepresentative. He/she will be holding a prominenton the go tours logo signboard. After meeting youwill be escorted to our awaiting transportation andtransfered to our tour start hotel

If, for any reason you have trouble locating ourrepresentative (after waiting 20 minutes in thearrival hall) or your flight is delayed please call theemergency contact number as stated on your tourvoucher.

If arriving on day 1 of a holiday, that includes anairport arrival transfer (as indicated in the 'What youGet' section of this Go Guide) we will be at theairport, ready to transfer you to your hotel. Furtherif you are booking pre-tour accommodation with usan airport arrival transfer will also be provided. Ifarriving prior to 9am on day 1 (essentially on aflight that arrives very, very early in the morning)you will need to purchase a night of pre-touraccommodation to save you waiting until standardhotel check in time, which is generally 2pm.

VisasBritish, Australian, Canadian, New Zealand, SouthAfrican and USA passport holders are able toobtain a 30 day tourist visa upon arrival to Laosat major airports and border crossings includingWattay International Airport in Vientiane (the entrypoint for all our tours in Laos), Luang PrabangInternational Airport and at the Friendship Bridge ifcoming from Thailand.

At each of these entry points you must submit a visaapplication form and two passport size photograph.The cost of the visa for the above nationalities iscurrently ranges between USD30 - USD35. It isimportant that you have an entirely empty(stamp

free) page in your passport and that your passportis valid for at least 6 months from your date ofarrival.

PLEASE NOTE: Your passport must be valid forat least 6 months after your departure date, if itis not you may be refused entry into the country.Visa requirements are subject to change and visaprocurement is solely the responsibility of thetraveller and not of On The Go.

Thailand Country Guide

Voltage &TimeThe voltage in Thailand is 220v. In Thailand thereare 2 types of plugs are commonly accepted: 2 flatprong plugs (type A), the 2 round pin plug (type C).To cover all bases, it is best to pack an internationaltravel adaptor! Thailand is 7 hours ahead of GMTand does not observe daylight saving.

ClimateThe best time to travel to Thailand – centraland north including Bangkok, Kanchanaburi andSukhothai is from November to April, with littlerain, if any expected throughout this time. Afterthe cooler winter months, from mid Januarytemperatures start to rise reaching 30°C and morebetween March – May. Between May and July thesouth west monsoons arrive, travel during this timecan still be pleasant with the rain coming in the formof short downpours, lasting an hour or two, clearingthe way for warm, clear skies.

In August and September the rain continues to falland temperatures remain high, though by Octoberthe mercury has fallen and November marks thestart of of the dry season in the central and northonce again.

The far north and Chiang Rai are generally coolerthan the surrounding regions with an annualaverage temperature of 25o C and with a lowerhumidity. The best time to travel is either the ‘cool’season from Oct – Feb or the wet season (Jun -Sept) when aside from the rain, conditions are mildwith temperatures around 25oC. March – May iswarmer with temperatures rising to 36oC.

The Gulf of Thailand, including the Hua Hin coastalregion has three defined seasons. From Decemberto February you can expect blue skies, plentyof sunshine with refreshing sea breezes to keeptemperatures at bay. From March – June there isstill plenty of blue sky and temperatures will riseabove 30°C. Rain is unlikely till till the end of Junewhen it comes in the form of hour-long afternoondownpours, clearing the way for more blue skiesand bright sunshine. In late-August/September themonsoon arrives and you can expect sunny spellsinterspersed with rainy periods. Rainfall usuallypeaks between October and November.

CurrencyThe official currency in Thailand is the Baht (THB).

US, Euro, AUD and GBP can be exchanged forBaht at banks or or at any one on of the numerous






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exchange booths that line the streets of the bigcities. You may also choose to purchase currencyin advance, though its possibly not necessary asATMs can be found everywhere with the exceptionof the hill tribe areas of Chiang Rai and if enroutebetween Chiang Rai and Chiang Khong border ifcrossing to Laos. It is not common to pay witha credit card at restaurants, cafes or shops forsmall purchases and if you do often there will be asurcharge applied or minimum charge required. Werecommend a combination of cash (US, Euro, AUDand GBP) and credit/debit cards. We recommendyou take a mixture of cash (preferably USD) andcredit/ debit cards for ATM's.

• USD 1 = THB 32.2• GBP 1 = THB 53.9• EURO 1 = THB 44.7• AUD 1 = THB 29.3

THB = Thailand Bhat (subject to fluctuation).

Holiday MoneyFunds collected in Thailand for entrance fees andtip kitty (if applicable to your holiday) are payablein USD.

Essential Packing• Lightweight cotton garments including

some items that cover your shoulders andknees. A pantsuit? He Hee!

• Torch is staying overnight at the JungleRafts

• Two spare passport photos & 2photocopies of your passport. You will needthe passport copies if you are planning tocross into Burma

• Sleep sheet, towel and some warm clothesfor your village stay if travelling on ourThailand, Temples & Tribes Tour

• Comfortable walking shoes (againespecially if joining our Thailand Temples &Tribes Tour) in addition to flip flops/ thongsyou can wear in the shower

• DEET based mosquito repellant &antihistamine cream

• Bring a 2 flat prong (type A) and a 2 roundpin (type C) electrical adaptors. A universaladaptor will cover all bases

• Lightweight, fold up raincoat/ poncho.• A daypack for your day-to-day needs. Also

handy if you don't want to take all yourluggage with you to the Jungle Rafts.

• Sunglasses, hat, sunscreen, swim costume


Arrive Bangkok - Suvarnabhumi InternationalAirport OR Don Mueang International Airport andattend to immigration formalities before collectingyour luggage and proceeding to the arrivals hall.As you enter the arrivals hall, look for our On TheGo Tours representative. He/she will be holdinga prominent On The Go Tours logo signboard.After meeting you will be escorted to our awaitingtransportation and transferred to our tour start hotel

If for any reason you have trouble locating ourrepresentative (after waiting 20 minutes in thearrival hall) or your flight is delayed please call theemergency contact number as stated on your tourvoucher.


Health RequirementsIt is recommended that you be vaccinated forTetanus and Polio, if you haven't had a booster inthe last ten years. Food and waterborne diseasesare more common, so we recommend vaccinationsfor typhoid (valid 3 years) and Hepatitis A (validityvaries).

If travelling to remote areas, further vaccinationsincluding TB, Hepatitis B, Rabies, Diphtheria andJapanese encephalitis may also be necessary. Werecommend you contact a health professional forthe most up-to-date immunisation information.

Malaria in ThailandAreas with Malaria: Rural only. Including forestedareas that border Burma (Myanmar), Cambodiaand Laos, and rural, forested areas in the districtsof Phang Nga and Phuket.

Malaria is not found in the cities of Bangkok,Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Koh Phangan, Koh Samui,Pattaya, Phang Nga and Phuket.

The risk of contracting Malaria in Thailand is low.

Malaria information provided by the Centre forDisease Control & Prevention, USA, and is offeredas guidance only.

Bilharzia may be present in some rivers and lakesand we recommend it best to avoid swimming inuntested waterways.

Yellow Fever is not present in Thailand, Vietnam,Cambodia, Laos or Burma however, a Yellow Fevercertificate is required for those travelling from aninfected area. Vaccination and health informationcan change so please contact your local health careprovider for the most up to date information prior totravelling.

Drugs: Thai law prohibits the possession, sale orpurchase of illicit drugs. Charges for possession orpurchase can range from 2-15 years in prison andin some cases the death penalty.

Guides And GroupsOur longest group tour in Southeast Asia is ourBangkok to Angkor Wat - 25 day tour, withthe exception of our Time for Thailand, Thailand

Temples & Tribes and Bangkok, Beach & Beyondtours, all other group tours that we offer are sectorsof this larger tour. As such on your holiday you mayhave travellers join you part way through your tour(in Luang Prabang, Hanoi or Saigon) or end theirtour when you continue on.

Guiding: A Thai guide will escort all arrangementsthroughout Thailand. If your tour continues toanother country a qualified guide native to thatcountry will escort the tour from there forward.

If travelling on our Time for Thailand, ThailandTemples, Tribes and Bangkok, Beach & Beyond orThailand & Angkor Temples tours, guests will traveltogether for days 1 to 9 and go there separate waysfor the remaining days of the tour.

TransportationOn all our tours we use a combination of vehiclesincluding mini buses, small and large size coaches.When travelling in the north of Thailand ourvehicles of choice are mini buses as they arebest equipped at navigating narrow winding roadsand mountain passes. In these areas a numberof mini buses rather than one large coach. Eachvehicle comfortably accommodates 8 persons andtour guide will swap between vehicles offeringcommentary en-route, in addition to making stopsto give more further information at points of interest.

ShoppingBangkok is rapidly gaining a reputation as akey shopping destination in Asia, with visitorsbeing drawn by the variety of products andshopping environments, as well as the great prices.Chatuchak, is a market that gains momentum overthe weekend to become arguably the largest inSoutheast Asia, everything can be found here, fromhand made jewellery to the latest fashions.

This city is blessed with a number of top qualityshopping malls, perhaps the most popular forvisitors is MBK. This 8 floor monstrosity offerseverything from telephones to sushi, designerlabels to unique designs. It is safe to assume thatanything with a brand that is being sold out of astore bearing the same brand may not necessarilybe the ‘real deal’. There is something here foreveryone, including a multi screen cinema showingthe latest movies in English for those who wouldlike to rest their weary feet whilst others continueon their spending spree.

Another wonderful feature of Bangkok are hernightmarkets. It seems that once the sun goesdown, the temporary stalls come out, everywhere.Patpong is famous for its genuine fakes, SukhumvitRoad boats a similar reputation. The mixture ofbargains, street food and general vibe of the citymake these markets a highlight to explore by foot.Remember to haggle, and if you think something isover priced then walk away. They will not sell to youat a loss, so if they can make some money on thedeal they will call you back.

Caveat emptor - Let the buyer beware! It is alwayssafe to assume that anything with a brand on it isa copy and should be treated as such. Some of






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these copies can be incredibly good, leaving theuntrained eye incapable of telling the difference. It istherefore always best to assume it is a copy unlessyou really know what you are looking at. The cityis also well known for its scams. Some tailors willdrastically overcharge for shoddy workmanship thatis delivered minutes before you leave on your returnflight so you cant get it changed. Some jewellershave been known to sell fake or greatly over pricedproducts. If the jewellers or tailors does not comehighly recommended, a large amount of cautionshould be used.

IMPORTANT: Any purchases made whilsttravelling are at your own discretion. Make sureyou are completely happy at the product you arepurchasing. on the go will not become involvedat any time, at a later date or once you returnhome should your purchase not live up to yourexpectations. Proceed with caution.

A New Tailored Suit!If you are looking to have suits made up, you mightlike to consider 'The Grand Fashion International'tailor shop. The shop is open from 9am - 9pmdaily and is easy enough to get to by taxi. theaddress can be found in your welcome letter thatyou will receive upon arrival. The shop offers qualitysuiting and garments made to measure. Customerfeedback so far has been very good. The shopworks with cotton, linen, wool, wool blends andall other suiting fabrics, though it and if you werelooking stretch fabrics, inexpensive cotton t's orcrazy cheap - off the side of the road kind of stuffthis would not be the place. Head to the nightmarkets instead. Prices: Tailored ladies/men cottonblend shirts business shirts start at USD$40, Ladiestrousers fully lined at USD$60, Mens blazer/jacketfully lined USD$90 and a fully lined suit, with shirtsfrom USD$160.

The catch! You are going to need at least 48 hoursto have items made. After making your order youwould need 1 - 2 fittings to ensure that suit fitsjust right. The shop can send a car to pick you upfrom the hotel and transfer you to and from theirpremises for the fittings. My best advice would beat the time you are placing the order, schedule yourfittings there and then so you can plan your timefor the days ahead. If for example you arrived aday early, you could visit the tailor on this day thenschedule your first fitting at say 4pm on day 1, thena final fitting (if required) at say 7.30pm on day2). Don't be afraid to haggle a little with the tailor,they are lovely gentlemen and small savings can bemade. Also do let them know that you are travellingwith On the Go. They are aware of our itinerariesand what time fittings can be scheduled plus its intheir best interest to keep you satisfied.

It's your choice to shop here, elsewhere or not at allin your free time.

Airline Luggage AllowanceIf your tour includes international or domestic flightsplease be mindful that the free baggage allowancefor Economy class travel within the region is strictly20kg and 1 piece of hand luggage up to 6kg. Any

additional weight is charged at a per kilo rate. Youmay wish to keep this in mind whilst shopping.

It's not like homeTravel to far - flung corners of the earth involveslifestyles and conditions that are sometimes verydifferent from what you are used to back home.You must come prepared to cope with unusualsituations, local inadequacies and unpredictableevents as and when they occur. Foreign travelis definitely not suitable for people who expector demand everything to go exactly as planned.With the greatest respect and in the interest ofyour ultimate enjoyment you must understand this.Things can and do change in foreign countries.

Vietnam Country Guide


Malaria in VietnamAreas with malaria: Rural only, except none in theRed River Delta and the coast north of Nha Trang.Rare cases in the Mekong Delta. None in Da Nang,Haiphong, Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon), NhaTrang, and Qui Nhon.Estimated relative risk of malaria for travellers: Low


Yellow fever is not present in but a yellowfever vaccination certificate is required from thosetravelling from an infected region. Vaccination andhealth information can change so please contactyour local health care provider for the most up todate information prior to travelling.

VisasMost nationalities including British, Australian,Canadian, New Zealand, South African and USApassport holders require a tourist visa to visitVietnam. Travellers can choose to independentlyapply (or we can arrange this for you, see notesbelow) for a 30 day tourist visa (single or multipleentry) from the nearest Vietnamese Embassy orvia the more convenient method of applying online.The cost is approx USD$20. After submitting anapplication you will receive a confirmation number,then upon arriving to Vietnam you would receive theactual visa and additionally pay a stamping fee ofUSD$45. The stamping fee for a multiple entry visa,for entries within one month is USD$65.

Applying in advance and then collecting yourtourist visa upon arrival is available to alltravellers entering the country via Hanoi - Noi BaiInternational Airport, Ho Chi Minh City - Tan SonNhat International Airport and Danang InternationalAirport.

ON THE GO ARRANGING YOUR VIETNAM VISAUpon confirming a holiday to Vietnam with us,please download a copy of our 'Vietnam Visa DataList' available on our website within the SE Asia,under the title of 'Visa Info'. Should you completethe form and return it as a Microsoft Word documentvia e-mail to us 6 weeks prior to your departure wewill arrange the visa for you (effectively saving youUSD$20).

Then approximately 2 - 3 weeks prior toyour departure we will forward to you a 'VisaConfirmation Letter' which carries a confirmationnumber'.

You will need to present the 'Visa ConfirmationLetter' and a 'Vietnam Visa Entry & Exit Form' (wehave a link to this form on our website or you canpick up one upon arrival) to immigration officialsupon arrival into Vietnam along with 2 passportphotos and a stamping fee of USD$45 or USD$65for a multiple entry visa. A Visa will then be stuckinto your passport and you can enter Vietnam.

Please note: This service is not available for SouthAfrican passport holders who must obtain a touristvisa from the nearest Vietnamese Embassy inadvance and pay the stamping fee directly to theembassy prior to travel.

'The Visa Confirmation Letter' (irrespective ofwhether you apply for your visa independently orthrough On The Go Tours) will contain personalinformation such as your passport number,nationality and date of birth of yourself and othertravellers on one inclusive list.

PLEASE NOTE: Your passport must be valid for atleast 6 months after your departure date, if it is notyou may be refused entry into the country.

ClimateVietnam has a varied climate due to its geography.The south is hot year round and has two seasons:The wet season lasts from May to October,with brief, daily showers. The dry season fromNovember to April is generally sunny and humid. Inthe north, the summer months (May to October) arehot and there is the occasional burst of heavy rain.In the winter (December to February) temperaturesdrop in the north and it can be damp. The coastalregion of central Vietnam is blessed with longmonths of sunshine, although there is rainfall inNovember and December. At this time there canalso be some typhoon activity in the central coastalregion.

Guides and GroupsOur longest group tour in Southeast Asia is ourBangkok to Angkor Wat - 25 day tour. All othergroup tours we offer (with the exception of ourVietnam with Teens and Flavours of Vietnam tours)are sectors of this larger tour. As such on yourholiday you may have travellers join you part waythrough your tour (in Luang Prabang, Hanoi orSaigon) or end their tour when you continue on.






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Guiding: A Vietnamese guide will escort allarrangements throughout Vietnam.

Time & VoltageThe voltage in Vietnam is 220v. In Vietnam 3 typesof plugs are commonly accepted: 2 flat prong plugs(type A), the 2 round pin plug (type C) and many ofthe new 4 and 5 star hotels use the British standard3-pin plug (type G). To cover all bases, it is best topack an international travel adaptor!

Vietnam is 7 hours ahead of GMT and does notobserve daylight saving.

CurrencyUSD notes are widely accepted and shopkeepersuse both currencies interchangeably. You can oftenpay for items in USD and receive your change inUSD notes and coins in VND. VND is always goodfor small purchases but there is really no need toexchange hard currency into VND prior to arrival.Make sure that your USD bills are crisp and cleanand you will have no problem using or exchangingthese throughout your stay. GBP, Euro & AUDare also widely acceptable though you will needto exchange these into USD or VND at a Bureaude change or bank. ATM machines can be foundin all major cities though it is not common to paywith credit card in restaurants, cafes or shops forpurchases. We recommend you take a mixture ofcash (preferably USD) and credit/ debit cards forATM's.

• USD 1 = VND21,080• GBP 1 = VND35,250• EURO 1 = VND29,200• AUD 1 = VND19,100

VND = Vietnamese Dong. (subject to fluctuation).

Holiday MoneyFunds collected in Vietnam for entrance fees andtip kitty (if applicable to your holiday) are payablein USD.

Essential Packing• Sleep sheet if taking an overnight sleeper

train. These also can be easily purchasedin Hanoi at a cost of USD$5. Ask you guidefor info on where to buy these.

• A day pack to carry all your essentials whenout sightseeing each day.

• An overnight bag, if you are staying aboardthe Junk boat in Halong Bay. As we will bereturning to Hanoi it is not essential that youtake your big bag/ suitcase with you.

• Lightweight cotton garments.• Comfortable walking shoes in addition to

flip flops/ thongs• DEET based mosquito repellant &

antihistamine cream• Bring a 2 flat prong (type A) and a 2 round

pin (type C) electrical adaptors. A universaladaptor will cover all bases

• Lightweight, fold up raincoat/ poncho.• Two spare passport photos & a photocopy

of your passport

• Sunglasses, hat, sunscreen, swim costumeand torch


Arrive to Hanoi - Noi Bai International Airport,Saigon - Tan Son Nhat International Airport.Proceed to the immigration counter and presentyour invitation letter. Complete an immigration formand submit your photographs and stamping fee ofUSD$25 (this can take some time). After collectingyour luggage proceed to the arrival hall.

As you enter the arrivals hall, look for our On TheGo Tours representative. He/she will be holdinga prominent On The Go Tours logo signboard.After meeting you will be escorted to our awaitingtransportation and transferred to our tour start hotel

If, for any reason you have trouble locating ourrepresentative (after waiting 20 minutes in thearrival hall) or your flight is delayed please call theemergency contact number as stated on your tourvoucher.


Airline Luggage AllowanceIf your tour includes international or domestic flightswithin the region please be mindful that the freebaggage allowance for Economy class travel isstrictly 20kg and 1 piece of hand luggage up to 6kg.Any additional weight is charged at a per kilo rate.You may wish to keep this in mind whilst shopping.

Trains in VietnamIt's not the Orient Express, but Vietnam'sReunification Express. On a number of our grouptours we include an overnight train journey on theReunification Express Railway Line between Hanoiand Hue. The particular SE series train that weuse on this journey is the highest class of trainavailable in Vietnam. It's titled as being the nation'sfastest train; though by international standards it'squite the opposite. Never the less, our journeybetween Hanoi and Hue takes approximately 14hours and travellers are accommodated in 4 berth'Soft Sleeper' cabins.

Aboard each wagon are 9 compartments thatcomprise of 4 bunks per compartment. 4 personsof mixed sex share one compartment. You maybe sharing with people from your tour group, othertourists or Vietnamese people. Who you will shareyour cabin with is ultimately dependent upon howthe Vietnamese Railways Corporation configuresthe bookings.

Cabins onboard are comfortable though notcomparable to European standards. A westernstyle toilet (with a varying degree of cleanliness) islocated at either end of the wagon. Air-conditioning(not always operational in the summer) and lightingare controlled from inside the cabin, which is alsolockable. Luggage can be stored in a compartmentunder the bottom bunk. Linen and a pillow areprovided though we strongly recommend that youbring your own sleep sheet (easily purchased inHanoi at a cost of USD$5). The cleanliness ofthe train varies according to wagons assigned tothe journey for that particular day. Some wagonsare spotlessly clean whilst others can be uncleanand should have been decommissioned long ago.Irrespective of the particular train you take, theyall have large clear glass windows that allow foruninterrupted views of stunning landscapes andnever ending rice paddy fields.

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Bangkok to Angkor Wat - 25 days go guide · 2014-11-28 · Bangkok to Angkor Wat - 25 daysgo guide don't leave home without it A World Of Discovery Bangkok to Angkor Wat - 25 days