Vietnam Travel Information & FAQS
Vietnam FAQ
From Chinese conquests to French
domination, and more recent involvement by the U.S. and Japan,
Vietnam has had a history of changing political circumstances.
Today, the legacy of wars
has been eclipsed by a buzz of tourism, as visitors experience
the breathtaking beauty of the north’s Red River Delta, the
south’s Mekong Delta, and the dazzling green rice paddies of the
coast. The pristine coastal beaches give way to an interior of
soaring mountains and dense forests. From bustling Ho Chi Minh
City to laid-back Hanoi, Vietnam presents a combination of
ancient culture and French colonialism. Let us help you explore
this diverse country from top to bottom!
Passports &
Visas
A valid passport with at least six months validity and a
visa are required to travel to Vietnam or Cambodia. Visitors must
obtain a visa prior to arrival in Vietnam; Cambodian 30-day visas
can be obtained upon arrival at the airport (passport photo needed).
Currency
The Vietnamese unit of currency is the Vietnam Dong (1USD =
15,900VND)
The Cambodian unit of currency is the Cambodian Riel (1USD =
4,000KHR)
U.S. Dollars and Thai Baht are widely accepted and considered the
best choice whilst traveling in Cambodia. It is a good idea to carry
a small amount of Riel as well.
Tipping
Vietnamese and Cambodians do not depend on tips or gratuities for
their income and tips are not expected for normal service, even in
restaurants and pubs. However, tipping in appreciation is at your
discretion.
Climate
Vietnam and Cambodia are tropical environments, high in
temperature and humidity.
Population:
+80 million
Capital City:
Hanoi
Language:
Vietnamese,
English (widely spoken, especially in tourist areas), French,
Chinese, Russian
Weather:
There are two
distinguishable seasons. The cold season occurs from November to
April and the hot season from May to October.
In the South -
The rainy season
lasts from May to November, but showers are usually limited to brief
bursts in the late afternoon. Average temperature is 80 degrees
Fahrenheit. There is not a noticeable difference between the two
seasons in the south of Vietnam.
Central Vietnam -
The driest season
runs from June to October. Average annual temperature is 77 degrees
Fahrenheit.
In the North -
Visitors to the
north are often surprised by the region's distinct seasons; summers
are hot and humid while winters are invigoratingly cool.
Average
temperature is 73 degrees Fahrenheit. During the cold/dry season,
temperatures can drop down to 50 degrees Fahrenheit.
Safety:
Vietnam is a relatively safe country. Travelers to Ho Chi Minh City
and to a lesser extent Hanoi should be conscious of pick pocketing
and bag snatching. There is no risk posed to travelers by landmines
or other residue of war.
Health:
Limited Western medical facilities are available in Ho Chi Minh City
and Hanoi. Outside the cities, medical facilities are very basic. We
strongly advise that you consult your preferred doctor for the most
up to date advice on the best health precautions at least one month
prior to travel. Travel Insurance must be purchased as a condition
of travel.
Departure Tax:
International departure tax is currently $US12pp for flights leaving
Saigon, and $US14pp for flights leaving Hanoi.
Domestic air
taxes apply and range from 10,000 dong to 20,000 dong ($1-$2 USD)
depending on the flight.
Public Holidays:
TET
(Vietnamese New Year) is in late Jan-early Feb, according to the
lunar calendar. Most businesses close for three days over this time.
Vietnam National Day – September 2.
Electricity:
220w. Two-rounded pin
standard Asian plugs are used in most parts of the country.
Cambodia Travel Information & Facts
Cambodia FAQ
Ancient Cambodia was an important trade link between China and
India, today the country reflects many influences of both
cultures. Cambodians are working to preserve their heritage,
from traditional textiles to temples and homes. Cambodia’s
capital, Phnom Penh, offers insight into ancient times, as well
as poignant reminders of the notorious Khmer Rouge regime. One
of Asia’s most significant historic sites, the Temples of Angkor
offer a treasure-trove of amazing architecture. Many of the
ruins are accessible from Siem Reap, including legendary Angkor
Wat, Bayon, Ta Prom and Angkor Thom. Discover the hidden
treasures of Cambodia with us!
Population:
13 million
Capital
City:
Phnom Penh
Language:
Khmer, English, French
Weather:
Cambodia's climate--like that of the rest of Southeast Asia--is
dominated by the monsoons, which are known as tropical wet and dry
because of the distinctly marked seasonal differences. The wet season
runs from May to October, with many finding this a great time to visit
Angkor in Siem Reap as the moats are full and the foliage lush. During
December and January temperatures are cooler (around 85 degrees
Fahrenheit) and it's unlikely to rain. From February onwards it starts
getting pretty hot, April being the hottest with temperatures reaching
up to 95 degrees Fahrenheit. Humidity is also extremely high at this
time of year.
Safety:
Tourist areas in Cambodia are safe by world standards, but the
usual commonsense safety
precautions should be adhered to. It is not safe to walk the streets of
Phnom Penh at night
as street lighting is poor and robbery is not uncommon. Avoid unknown
areas, keep jewelry
to a minimum and valuables in the hotel safe.
Health:
Medical facilities are basic throughout the country - even in the
capital Phnom Penh. We
recommend you contact a traveler’s health clinic or your local doctor
for the most up to date
information on travelers' health considerations at least one month prior
to travel. Travel
Insurance must be purchased as a condition of travel.
Visas:
Getting your Cambodian visa is a simple and efficient process.
Tourist visas can be obtained
on arrival at Phnom Penh or Siem Reap airports for 25USD cash. You will
also need one
passport photo to accompany your visa application.
Money:
The official unit of currency in Cambodia is the riel. Us dollars
are accepted everywhere and
can be used instead of the local currency. Thai baht are also widely
accepted. Both of these
are easy to change, as are most other major currencies. It can be
difficult to change travelers
checks outside Phnom Penh & Siem Reap. Cash advances on credit cards are
available in
Phnom Penh & Siem Reap, but charges are high. Otherwise, there are no
ATMs and credit
cards are rarely accepted.
Departure Tax:
For International departure taxes, allow USD$15pp ex Siem Reap and
USD$20pp ex Phnom Penh. Domestic taxes ex Siem Reap and Phnom Penh are
USD$5pp.
