Epic Highlights of Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos

The best place in Southeast Asia to witness the convergence of the old and new is Vietnam.  Vietnam of today is a youthful nation fuelled by the desire for modernisation and commercialisation while protective of its traditional past.  In the stoic political capital of Hanoi in the north and vibrant cosmopolitan Ho Chi Minh City in the south, you will observe modern cities in the making, the Hong Kong’s of tomorrow. But along small streets, like those in the Old Quarter in Hanoi, you will still find silversmiths practising their century-old trade, far removed from the modern changes around them.  The former imperial capital of Hue and the ancient port city of Hoi An offer an evocative glimpse into the country’s rich historical past. Impressive structures from the 18th century Nguyen Dynasty are a living testament to the royal legacy of Vietnam’s glorious days.

It is the contrasting characteristics of the country, from its historical past to its modern developments and its diverse landscapes and people that will leave a lasting impression.

A long, skinny country curled around the East Sea, Vietnam has 3,450km of coastline and a central spine of mountains, including the highest peak in mainland Southeast Asia, Mount Fansipan.  Vietnam’s shape is often compared to two rice baskets on a shoulder pole.  The narrow band of lowland deserts and steep mountains in the centre give way to broad expanses of river deltas in the north and south.  Having begun its journey in Tibet, the Mekong River divides into nine tributaries and feeds the agricultural region of the Mekong Delta.  Meanwhile, the Red River Delta is the economic centre of the northern region notably known for farming and villages specialising in producing handicrafts.

Vietnam boasts amazingly varied landscapes; from precipitous mountains to uncharted forests, emerald terraced rice fields to deserted pristine beaches.  While large resort developments are heavily concentrated along the stretch of East Sea in Danang, there are still many parts of the country that remain untouched like the castaway islands of the Con Dao archipelago, an ideal getaway for those seeking an off the beaten path experience.

VISA: Please ensure your passport is valid more than 6 months from the date of return for every country you are visiting. Please also ensure there is sufficient space in your passport to allow for all immigration procedures, taking note that some South East Asian countries take up a full page for the visa sticker and need yet more space on a separate page for entry & exist stamps.

Kindly note that visa service is not included in this proposal. Please contact Epic for any visa service or guidance. Please note the following general information is subject to change concerning visas.

Vietnam: A one month single entry visa is available on arrival with a pre-arranged visa invitation authorisation letter.  The visa invitation letter processing time is two weeks, rush service may be available at additional cost. The costs per person for the visa invitation authorisation letter processing fee are US$50 and an additional US$25 per person must be paid in cash on arrival along with two passport photos at the Visa On Arrival Counter located in the International Airport.  Selected nationalities can travel visa-free for 15 days if arriving by air or can apply e-visa (subject to change). 

CURRENCY: Dông (VND; symbol ₫). Notes are in denominations of ₫500,000, 200,000, 100,000, 50,000, 20,000, 10,000, 5,000, 2,000, 1,000 and 500. Coins are in denominations of ₫5,000, 2,000, 1,000 and 500.

Import and export of local currency is limited to ₫15,000,000. Import and export of foreign currency over US$7,000 should be declared at customs.

The US Dollar is the most favoured foreign currency. Australian, British, Japanese, Singaporean and Thai currency, as well as the Euro, can usually be changed in the larger cities; great difficulty may be encountered in trying to exchange any other currencies. There is a commission charge for changing money in banks.

BANKING: Banking hours vary from bank to bank but are generally open from Monday-Friday 08:30-16:00; some may close for lunch. Many banks are also open on Saturday morning; all banks are closed on Sunday.

An increasing number of outlets accept MasterCard and Visa credit cards. However, outside main towns and cities, it is wise to carry cash. There are ATMs in many major towns, but not in rural areas. ATMs issue Dông, and the single withdrawal limit varies, depending on the bank, ranging from ₫2,000,000 to much larger amounts.

Travellers' cheques are accepted in banks, money changers and some hotels although most travellers now use debit cards because of the increased number of ATMs. It is best to take US Dollar travellers' cheques to avoid additional exchange rate charges and expect to pay a high commission.

Motor vehicles are well equipped with air conditioning although it is limited to a 2006-2012 range. Luxury cars such as Mercedes or limousine are available for hire but incur an extra charge.  Wearing a seatbelt in Vietnam is still not common practice – be aware that the vehicles in which you travel may not be fitted with seatbelts in accordance with the current convention. If you want to take a taxi to somewhere, for quality assurance, choose larger company taxis, such as Mai Linh, that are available throughout the big cities.  Make sure to check your taxi driver starts the meter. Bring small notes with you for the payment.  To avoid any misunderstandings, it is useful to have the address written down.

TRAIN: The Vietnamese key route is the north to south line known as the Reunification Express. Each sleeper carriage has about 5-7 cabins and one small basic toilet at the end of the carriage. Please lower your expectation if you have to take this means of transportation since all train in Vietnam is Russian old types. The train system is slowly being modernised with technological advances.

HEALTH: Please consult your doctor to discuss your particular health or immunisation requirements. For further information, please refer to the Centre for Disease Control (CDC) website at www.cdc.gov

MEDICAL: The standard of medical facilities within Vietnam varies. International care facilities can be found in the major cities of Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh and Danang. Facilities in public and rural hospitals are well below international standards and medical evacuations to a major centre may be required even for a relatively small injury. If a problem arises where you are in need of medical attention, the best option is to visit an international clinic. Please contact your hotel or guide for information on clinic services and to find one that is appropriate for Western visitors.

YELLOW FEVER VACCINATION:  A Yellow Fever Vaccination certificate is only required for travellers coming from – or in transit through an airport of – a country with risk of yellow fever transmission. The vaccination requirement is imposed by this country for protection against yellow fever since the principal mosquito vector Aedes aegypti is present in its territory.

If you are visiting Vietnam and you live in or have travelled through a yellow fever zone, then you need to have a yellow fever certificate to show that you have been vaccinated against the illness.  When you arrive in Vietnam, you will be asked for your yellow fever certificate. You need to show this at the medical counter before queuing for immigration.

Check to see if you have been in any of these places during the last six months. Please consult your doctor to discuss your particular health or immunisation requirements.

AFRICA - Risk of yellow fever transmission exists in these countries:

Angola, Benin, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, Republic of the Congo, Côte d’Ivoire, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Ethiopia, Gabon, Gambia, Ghana, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Kenya, Liberia, Mauritania, Niger, Mali, Nigeria, Senegal, Sierra Leone, South Sudan, Sudan, Togo, Uganda.

AMERICAS - Risk of yellow fever transmission exists in these countries:

Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, French Guiana, Guyana, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Suriname, Trinidad and Tobago, Venezuela.

Validity of Certificate:  A yellow fever certificate is valid for ten years after vaccination.

Children: A vaccination certificate is required for children over one year of age.

Common Procedure:

1.   Complete yellow fever form

2.   Wait in queue for an assigned health counter

3.   Submit required documents to immigration officer and proceed to arrival immigration counter

In general, Vietnam is very safe for travellers.  Violent attacks are rare, although petty theft is a problem in big cities. Where possible, secure your valuables in the hotel safe.  Remember to record your traveller’s cheque numbers and credit card information—just in case.

• Do not leave your wallet or mobile phone in the back pocket of your pants or anywhere else that’s easily reached (like an outer zip-up compartment on a backpack).  Be especially vigilant in markets and other crowded places like ports and train stations.
• Pick-pocketing and purse snatching are more of a problem in Ho Chi Minh City than smaller towns or cities. Some thieves approach on motorcycles, grab your belongings and race off before you’ve realised what’s happened. If you ride in a cyclo (pedicab), it is advisable not to carry or wear things of personal value (i.e., jewellery, lots of money). Wearing a money belt or something that can be easily tucked away is considered safer.
• Use common sense and don’t walk alone after dark. You’re always better off avoiding cyclos or motorbike taxis at night; ask your hotel or restaurant to call a reputable taxi firm. If confronted by a mugger, do not resist.
• When crossing the street on foot, move at a slow and steady pace. Fight the urge to weave and run! Walk slowly, looking up and meeting the driver’s eyes, and the traffic will flow around you. For best results, follow a local.

Water used for drinking, brushing teeth or making ice should have first been boiled or otherwise sterilised. However, bottled water is widely available and cheap; make sure the seal is unbroken before drinking. Unpasteurised milk should be boiled. However, pasteurised milk is widely available now. Avoid dairy products that are likely to have been made from unboiled milk. Only eat well-cooked meat and fish, preferably served hot. Vegetables should be cooked and fruit should be peeled.

Vietnamese cooking is varied and usually superb, as the profusion of Vietnamese restaurants in New York, London and Berlin contest. It is a mixture of Vietnamese, Chinese and French traditions, with a plethora of regional variations. As in all countries of the region, rice or noodles usually provide the basis of a meal. Not surprisingly, fish is plentiful. Pride is taken in the fact that the freshest of vegetables are used and the vegetables and fruit served is seasonal.

Tipping is now quite customary, especially in tourist areas, and is much appreciated in a country where salaries are still low. Upscale restaurants and hotels may add a 5-10% service charge to the bill.

Because of its geography, the climate in Vietnam varies greatly from north to south with three distinct climatic zones. Tropical monsoons occur from October to April in the centre and from May to September in the north and south. It is almost totally dry throughout the rest of the year. It can get exceptionally hot, however, all year round, but the north has a cooler time between October and April. Temperatures around the country can reach up to 40C in the height of the hot and rainy season (May to September), but the northern highlands and Hanoi can often seem chilly and damp in the winter.

There is no one ideal time to visit Vietnam as a whole but at any time of year there will be sun somewhere. The high season is from September to March but bad weather can disrupt travel in the centre of the country during this period, particularly from September to December. For the beaches in the centre of Vietnam, Danang, Hoi An and Nha Trang, it is best to go between May and August. The autumn is the best time to visit Halong Bay when there should be clear skies.

If your trip to Vietnam includes stops at beaches and mountainous areas, you will need clothes for all temperatures.  A swimsuit, sunglasses, a hat, t-shirts, shorts that are not too revealing, long trousers, some light-weight, long-sleeved tops and a light jacket that is wind and rain-resistant will get you through most trips. If you plan to visit northern Vietnam in the winter, you’ll need a warm coat. Mountainous areas can get chilly; choose clothes you can layer.

If trekking is on your agenda, you will need sturdy footwear with traction—plus lots of socks.

Slip-on shoes or sandals are useful for visits to pagodas or people’s houses, as you’ll save time taking your shoes on and off.

Larger cities like Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi offer upscale bars and restaurants, so be sure to pack some clothes and shoes for a nice evening out. It’s not advisable to bring your flashy jewellery.

The standard household (hotel) electrical supply in Vietnam is 220 volt, 50 Hertz, but you may find that 110 volt, 50 Hertz outlets are still in use in some places. In Vietnam, the standard socket accepts a two round pins plug without a ground pin (Type A), but non-standard two flat blade (Type B) or two rectangular blade sockets and plugs are still in use.

Some modern hotels and office blocks have three pin round (Type D) or UK three pin square sockets (Type C).

Before travelling to Vietnam, it is wise to survey your various items that you will need and that require electricity to operate. Verify you have the proper adaptors, converters, or transformers to get electricity in Vietnam.

Adaptors are sold in local markets and usually available from your hotel.

CULTURAL ETIQUETTE: 

• In Vietnam, revealing clothing is unacceptable off the beach. Shorts are generally fine – as long as they aren’t too short.
• When visiting pagodas, temples or Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum in Hanoi, shorts and tank-tops are unacceptable (no cameras allowed inside HCM Mausoleum). Your knees and shoulders must be covered. Footwear and socks must be removed in pagodas.  Shoes are usually removed when entering private homes too.
• Upon meeting someone new, people may simply nod to each other or may shake hands. Using both hands to shake someone’s hand is a warm gesture of respect.
• Beckoning someone by crooking your finger is considered rude. The correct way to call someone over is to extend your hand with the palm down and flap your fingers towards your wrist. To ask for the bill in a restaurant or shop, extend one hand in front of you with the palm raised and pretend to write on your palm with the other hand.

TRAVEL INSURANCE: It is highly recommended that all clients obtain comprehensive Travel Insurance. Please provide Epic with a copy of your insurance policy prior to travel. If you require assistance in obtaining travel insurance please contact us.  Policies should be checked to ensure that they include ALL medical situations as well as the following:

• Hospitalisation and repatriation
• Cancellation
• Missed flight connections
• Loss of baggage
• Loss/breakage of valuables such as cameras (care should be taken on rough roads)

TOILETRIES & MEDICATION: While imported beauty products are readily available in major cities, you’d be wise to pack staples like sunscreen, contact lens solution, tampons and mosquito repellent.  It is advised that your prescription medication is in its original box with the label along with the prescription to avoid any complications that may arise at Customs.  Many medicines are available in Southeast Asia without prescriptions.  If you plan to purchase medication, choose a reputable supplier and read the labels carefully, particularly paying attention to the expiration date.

TRAVEL DOCUMENTS: Bring a money-belt to safely carry your travel documents and cash, and ensure that your luggage has a lock.  Bring photo-copies of your passport and visa, plus some extra passport- sized photos if you’re applying for an on-arrival visa (just in case).  When flying into or within Vietnam, you will probably be given baggage claim tags (they might be stuck to the back of your ticket).  Keep these, as you will need to show them when leaving the airport.

PACKING ESSENTIALS: What you take will naturally depend upon where you are travelling, and it can often be difficult to decide what to pack, nevertheless, the following should act as a useful checklist of essential items worth thinking about taking.

• Passport – Ensure that it is valid and in good condition with empty pages available.  Make a photocopy as well.
• Copy of visa approval letter (if your visa is to be obtained on arrival)
• Insurance – Ensure that it will be valid for the whole journey
• Passport Photos – Will invariably be needed for identification passes and certain overseas visas
• Emergency contact numbers: Trails of Indochina, Insurance Company, friends and family.
• Debit/credit card cancellation numbers
• Air tickets and Itinerary
• Money belt – Ensure that it is discrete and comfortable to wear
• First Aid kit - Basic travel kit to cover basic mishaps which may occur along the way
• Personal Medication –with international doctors’ note to ensure easy passage of medication across international borders
• Sun block – High UVA protection ideally
• Sunglasses & sunhat
• Comfortable walking shoes
• Mosquito spray & insect repellent
• Long sleeve top and trousers – Useful to protect against mosquitoes at dawn and dusk and the sun through the day
• Camera & battery
• Security code pad lock
• A small amount of currency in USD small notes

GRATUITIES: While not compulsory, tipping is greatly appreciated throughout Southeast Asia, especially in the service industry. If you are pleased with the services provided, please use the below guide for reference. Please note all prices are quoted in USD

• Guides (>4 travellers): $10 - $15 per day per traveller
• Drivers (>4 travellers): $5 - $7 per day per traveller
• Guides (<5 travellers): $5 - $10 per day per traveller
• Drivers (<5 travellers): $3 - $5 per day per traveller
• Restaurants: 5-10% of the total bill
• Hotel Maid Service: $2 - $3 per day
• Porters: $2 - $3 at time of service
• Local Boat Transport: $5 - $10 per boat
• Overnight Cruise: $20 - $30 per person per night (to cover all crew)

TIME ZONE: Vietnam operates on Greenwich meantime +7 hours. Vietnam does not observe daylight saving hours.

COUNTRY CODE: Vietnam’s country code is + 84

MOBILE PHONES: Your guide can assist you to purchase a local SIM card and/or hand set at any mobile phone shop. ‘Top up’ credit vouchers are available at most phone shops, particularly ones displaying the network logo, or local post offices. You can place international phone calls and send faxes at post offices or at most hotels, although hotels often charge extra fees.

INTERNET: Wireless (Wi-Fi) Internet access is available in most hotels throughout Vietnam and free Wi- Fi is available in many restaurants, cafes and bars. Be careful to not save your password or sensitive information on public computer terminals.

Once the greatest empire in Southeast Asia, Cambodia’s colourful history and awe-inspiring sites make it one of the most exciting countries in the region to visit.

The main tourist attraction of Cambodia is the ancient archaeological ruins of Angkor, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. However, the natural beauty of this country extends beyond Angkor and includes virgin forests, waterfalls, and remote hill-tribe villages in the north- eastern provinces, making this a rewarding adventure and ecotourism destination. The southern region’s coastline earns popularity for its white-sand beaches in Sihanoukville and surrounding areas. The eccentric capital city of Phnom Penh is the business and social hub of the country.

Cambodia is raw, alive, beautiful and challenging—never taking you too far from a feeling that you're almost a part of history in the making, not merely an observer.

VISA REQUIREMENTS FOR ARRIVAL BY AIR: Please ensure your passport is valid more than 6 months from the date of return for every country you are visiting. Please also ensure there is sufficient space in your passport to allow for all immigration procedures, taking note that some South East Asian countries take up a full page for the visa sticker and need yet more space on a separate page for entry and exist stamps.

Kindly note that visa service is not included in our proposal.

E-VISA: The Ministry of Foreign Affairs & International Cooperation has launched an e-visa, which enables most of the countries to apply for a Cambodia tourist visa online. Instead of applying through Cambodian Embassy, this process can now be done online. Please click here to start applying: https://www.evisa.gov.kh/

To apply for e-visa, applicants will need to prepare:

• Passport with a validity no less than six months and at least 2 continuous blank passport pages
• One recent colour photo in digital format
• E-visa fee of USD 36
• **Note** If you are travelling to multiple destinations where a visa is required, you will need several blank pages to accommodate the visa stamps.
• After submitting the form online, you can check the status via this link. The processing time will take around three business days. The validity of e-visa approval letter has 90 days from the issued date. Length of stay is 30 days from the date of arrival in Cambodia.

E-visa is only valid for a single entry. However, not all borders of Cambodia accept e-visas, please check your port of entry before applying.

Here are the port entries which accept Cambodia e-visa:

• Phnom Penh International Airport
• Siem Reap International Airport
• Cham Yeam (Koh Rong)
• Poipet (Banteay Meanchey)
• Bavet (Svay Rieng)
• For the detailed list of all the ports, please visit https://www.evisa.gov.kh/information/port_entry/3
• After receiving your e-visa through email, please print and bring it along while travelling to Cambodia.
• For more information, please visit https://www.evisa.gov.kh/FAQ E

The ‘riel’ is Cambodia’s national currency. The current exchange rate is approximately 4000 riels to 1 US dollar. However, US dollars are the preferred currency of ALL Cambodians. Riel may be given in change for sums under $1, do not accumulate too many riels as they cannot be exchanged outside of Cambodia.

Travellers cheques are no longer accepted in Cambodia. The only exception is ANZ Royal banks but it can be a lengthy procedure.

ATM machines can be found on virtually every street corner in Siem Reap and Phnom Penh, they only issue US dollars. A fee of at least $5 may be charged on ATM transactions (plus your own bank fees at home), so try to withdraw all you may need in one transaction. $100 notes are distrusted and can be very hard to exchange in many parts of Cambodia, so try to bring lower denomination notes. As ATM machines generally issue $100 notes, it may be an idea to draw $90 in a transaction.

Torn or marked notes will rarely be accepted in Cambodia; so do not bring them and always check your change, refusing any damaged or marked notes.

Choice of transportation in Cambodia is on a par with most other countries in the region. Cars for hire are typically Toyotas and have air conditioning. Wearing a seatbelt in Cambodia is required by law for both drivers and passengers. For 3 or more passengers, 7-12 seat air-conditioned transit vans are the norm.

HEALTH: Please consult your doctor to discuss your particular health or immunisation requirements. If you would like to have a source of further information, please refer to the Centre for Disease Control (CDC) website at www.cdc.gov

MEDICAL: Medical care has come a long way in Cambodia, though it is still lacking in comparison to its more developed neighbours. In the event of serious injury, evacuation is necessary. For minor injuries, the Royal Rattanak General Hospital in Phnom Penh, the Royal Angkor in Siem Reap and the newly opened Sonja Kill Memorial Hospital in Kep are acceptable. Outside the major cities of Phnom Penh and Siem Reap, local hospitals are far below international standard and should be avoided. However, pharmacies can be found throughout the country but may lack certain medications and may only sell generic brands of common medicines. Should you need medical assistance while travelling in Cambodia, please alert your guide.

Land mines and unexploded ordinances (UXOs) can be found in the most remote rural areas in Cambodia, especially around Preah Vihear and Banteay Meanchey. Most other areas accessible for tourists have been cleared by international de-mining organisations such as MAG, CMAC or HALO.

Do not leave your wallet or mobile phone in the back pocket of your pants or anywhere else that’s easily reached (like an outer zip-up compartment on a backpack). Be especially vigilant in markets and other crowded places.

Pick-pocketing and purse-snatching are more of a problem in popular tourist areas in Phnom Penh and Siem Reap but happens less frequently than in other Asian countries.

Follow your guide’s advice when sightseeing around the Temples of Angkor.  Be especially cautious if you choose to climb to the top levels of the temples as the way up and down can be steep and the steps uneven, and in wet weather, they can be very slippery.

All water should be regarded as being potentially contaminated. Boil or sterilise water for drinking, brushing teeth or making ice. Bottled water is widely available. Milk is also unpasteurised and should be boiled. Powdered or tinned milk is available and is an advisable alternative to fresh produce. Avoid dairy products which are likely to have been made from unboiled milk. Only eat well-cooked meat and fish. Vegetables should be cooked and fruit peeled. Hygiene is something travellers should be aware of when travelling to Cambodia. Roadside street food stalls and restaurants are fun to try but may not have the strictest cleanliness habits. Stick to freshly cooked piping hot foods to avoid sickness.

Khmer cuisine consists of a variety of dishes with rice served communally for the family to enjoy together. Local herbs, regional sauces and unique flavours come together to form this distinctive and delicious cuisine. With Cambodia’s many rivers, lakes and its vast coastline, fish is a staple protein, with chicken being quite popular as well. Salads are varied, often featuring fruits, herbs or even meats and chilies. For refreshments, juices, local beers, rice wines and coconut or sugarcane juice provide nourishment and welcome respite from the heat.

Cambodia has a tropical climate that is warm and humid with two distinct seasons: rainy and dry. During the peak of the rainy season (June to August), the humidity is higher and the temperatures can reach the upper 30C (86F), From September to early November, it is wet and slightly cooler. Seasonal flooding in Phnom Penh and the rest of Cambodia occurs in September and October which may cause disruption to travel. The dry season (November to May) is pleasant from November to February and becomes hotter from March to May, where temperatures can soar as high as 38C (100F).

Since the weather is consistently warm throughout the country, it is advisable to bring comfortable lightweight, loose fitting, cotton clothing and long-sleeved items for protection from mosquitoes and the sun.

During the rainy season, an umbrella and open-toe sandals are recommended. Cambodia is a very casual country and a lightweight jacket may only be needed in the more upmarket hotels and restaurants using excessive air-conditioning. A hat and high-factor sun block is advisable for protection against the hot sun when sightseeing.

T-shirts and knee length shorts are acceptable for visiting temples or pagodas.

Electricity in most of Cambodia is 220V, 50Hz. Electric power sockets generally fit two round pins. Three-pin plug adaptors are usually provided by deluxe hotels. In all countries, protect sensitive electronic equipment like laptops from power fluctuations by using a surge-protector.

CULTURAL ETIQUETTE: Cambodians consider it disrespectful to touch someone on their head. It's also impolite to gesture with your feet or prop them up on furniture; to do so implies that you look down on the people sitting around you.

Revealing clothing is unacceptable off the beach. Shorts are generally fine—as long as they aren’t too short.

When visiting pagodas and temples, shorts and tank-tops are unacceptable. Your knees and shoulders must be covered. Footwear and socks must be removed in pagodas. Shoes are usually removed when entering private homes too.

Public displays of affection between men and women may embarrass your host. On the other hand, it’s perfectly normal for a pair of men or a pair of women to link arms or hold hands.

When greeting people in Cambodia, it’s customary to use the sampeah gesture: bring your palms together at chest level and bow slightly in the direction of your acquaintance. Beckoning someone by crooking your finger is considered rude. The correct way to call someone over is to extend your hand with the palm down and flap your fingers towards your wrist. To ask for the bill in a restaurant or shop, extend one hand in front of you with the palm raised and pretend to write on your palm with the other hand.

TRAVEL INSURANCE: It is highly recommended that all clients obtain comprehensive Travel Insurance. Please provide Epic with a copy of your insurance policy prior to travel. If you require assistance in obtaining travel insurance please contact us.  Policies should be checked to ensure that they include ALL medical situations as well as the following:

• Hospitalisation and repatriation
• Cancellation
• Missed flight connections
• Loss of baggage
• Loss/breakage of valuables such as cameras (care should be taken on rough roads)

TOILETRIES & MEDICATION: While imported beauty products are available in Phnom Penh and Siem Reap, you’d be wise to pack staples like sunscreen, contact lens solution, tampons and mosquito repellent. It is advised that your prescription medication is in its original box with the label along with the prescription to avoid any complications that may arise at Customs. Many medicines are  available in Southeast Asia without prescriptions. If you plan to purchase medication, choose a reputable supplier, such as U-care pharmacies, and read the labels carefully, particularly paying attention to the expiration date.

TRAVEL DOCUMENTS: You should bring a money-belt to safely carry your travel documents and cash, and ensure that your luggage has a lock. Bring photocopies of your passport and visa, plus some extra passport-sized photos if you’re applying for on-arrival visas. When flying into or within Cambodia, you will probably be given baggage claim tags (they will be stuck to the back of your ticket). Keep these, as you may need to show them when leaving the airport.

PACKING ESSENTIALS: What you take will naturally depend upon where you are travelling, and it can often be difficult to decide what to pack, nevertheless the following should act as a useful checklist of essential items worth thinking about taking.

• Passport – Ensure that it is valid and in good condition with empty pages available.  Make a photocopy as well
• Copy of visa approval letter (if visa is to be obtained on arrival)
• Insurance – Ensure that it will be valid for the whole journey
• Passport Photos – Will invariably be needed for identification passes and certain overseas visas
• Debit/credit card cancellation numbers
• Air tickets and Itinerary
• Money belt – Ensure that it is discrete and comfortable to wear
• First Aid kit - Basic travel kit to cover basic mishaps which may occur along the way
• Personal Medication –with international doctors’ note to ensure easy passage of medication across international borders
• Sun block – High UVA protection ideally
• Sunglasses & sunhat
• Comfortable walking shoes and sandals/flip flops for visiting temples or pagodas.
• Mosquito spray & insect repellent
• Long sleeve top and trousers – Useful to protect against mosquitoes at dawn and dusk and the sun through the day
• Camera & battery
• Security code pad lock
• Electricity adapters
• Sufficient amount of currency in USD small and large notes to last the duration of your stay.

GRATUITIES: While not compulsory, tipping is greatly appreciated throughout Southeast Asia, especially in the service industry. If you are pleased with the services provided, please use the below guide for reference. Please note all prices are quoted in USD

• Guides (>4 travellers): $10 - $15 per day per traveller
• Drivers (>4 travellers): $5 - $7 per day per traveller
• Guides (<5 travellers): $5 - $10 per day per traveller
• Drivers (<5 travellers): $3 - $5 per day per traveller
• Restaurants: 5-10% of the total bill
• Hotel Maid Service: $2 - $3 per day
• Porters: $2 - $3 at time of service
• Local Boat Transport: $5 - $10 per boat
• Overnight Cruise: $20 - $30 per person per night (to cover all crew)

TIME ZONES: Cambodia operates on Greenwich meantime +7. Please note Cambodia does not observe daylight saving hours.

COUNTRY CODE: Cambodia country code +855

MOBILE PHONES: Your guide can assist you to purchase a local SIM card and/or hand set at many mobile phone shops. ‘Top up’ credit vouchers are available at most phone shops, particularly ones displaying the network logo. You can place international phone calls and send faxes at most hotels, although hotels often charge extra fees.

INTERNET: Wireless (Wi-Fi) Internet access is available in most hotels throughout Cambodia and free Wi-Fi is available in many restaurants, cafes and bars. Be careful to not save your password or sensitive information on public computer terminals.

Laos, a peaceful land-locked nation, is one of Southeast Asia’s hidden gems. The stunning natural beauty of forested mountains and valleys teeming with wildlife combined with a fascinating Buddhist culture make Laos a superb destination for those seeking an adventurous and authentic cultural experience.

Most of Laos today remains relatively isolated and undeveloped. Its capital, Vientiane, is more like a big village than a crowded Asian hub and life throughout the country is slow- paced. The UNESCO World Heritage town of Luang Prabang continues to be the leading attraction for its glittering ancient temples, saffron-robed monks, authentic textile villages and sleepy riverside atmosphere. The far mountainous northern region and the southern provinces offer excellent opportunities for outdoor activities such as trekking, mountain biking, kayaking and canoeing.

The beauty of Laos is best discovered when you take the time to soak whether it be enjoying the sunset over the Mekong or interacting with monks at the temples.

VISA EXEMPTION

• Visitors from the following countries are eligible for a 14-day stay without a visa: Brunei, Myanmar.
• Visitors from the following countries are eligible for a 15-day stay without a visa: Japan, Russia, South Korea, Switzerland, Luxembourg.
• Visitors from the following countries are eligible for a 30-day stay without a visa: Cambodia, Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam, Mongolia.
• Visitors from Sri Lankan are entitled to apply for visa on arrival to enter Laos for tourism purpose as from 1st August 2018.

**Note** If you are travelling to multiple destinations where a visa is required, you will need several blank pages to accommodate the visa stamps.

The Laos government has launched an e-visa, which allows citizens of 150 countries to apply for a Laos tourist visa online - https://laoevisa.gov.la/article/Who%20can%20Apply%20for%20Lao%20eVisa

Please click here to start applying: https://laoevisa.gov.la/index

To apply for an e-visa, applicants will need to prepare:

• A passport that is valid for at least six months and has at least 2 continuous blank passport pages
• One recent 4x6cm colour photo in a digital format
• E-visa fee ranges from 46.58 USD to 65.21 USD, depending on your nationality. 

After submitting the form online, the processing time will take around three business days. The validity of an e-visa approval letter is 60 days from the issued date. Length of stay is 30 days from the date of arrival in Laos. E-visa is only valid for a single entry. However, not all borders of Laos accept e-visas, please check your port of entry before applying.

Here is the current port of entries which accept Laos e-visas:

• Wattay International Airport
• Lao Thai Friendship Bridge

After receiving your e-visa through email, please print and bring it along while travelling to Laos.

Tourist visas can also be obtained upon arrival at the following ports of entry:

• Laos International Airports: Vientiane, Luang Prabang, Pakse and Savannakhet.
• Border Checkpoints: China-Laos, Thailand-Laos, Vietnam-Laos, Cambodia-Laos.

However, please note that not all foreign passport holders can apply for visa on arrival. Please check with your Laos Embassy or Laos Consulate for specific visa requirements.

To apply for visa on arrival, applicants will need to prepare:

• Passport with a validity no less than six months and at least 2 blank pages
• Two recent photos
• Visa fee ranges from USD 20 to USD 42 (depending on your nationality) must be paid in cash and in US Dollars
• A completed visa application form

CURRENCY: Lao Kip (LAK; symbol ₭­) = 100 cents. Notes are in denominations of ₭50,000, 20,000, 10,000, 5,000, 2,000, 1,000, 500, 100, 50, 10, 5 and 1. Most transactions are conducted in cash; American Dollars, Thai Baht or Lao Kip (LAK).

BANKING: Banking hours: Monday-Friday 08h30-16h00. Some banks remain open during lunch.

Major credit cards are accepted in the more upmarket hotels and restaurants only in Vientiane and Luang Prabang. Several banks will also offer a cash advance on credit cards for a commission. Most ATMs are reliable. However there is a limit on how much you can withdraw during a day, and currently, the withdrawal limit per day is set at approximately 1,000,000 LAK, roughly £65. Vientiane has the biggest selection of ATMs in the country, especially around Th Setthathriat. Major hotels are likely to have an ATM on-site.

Travellers' cheques often carry a hefty commission charge – available at most banks in Vientiane. To avoid additional exchange rate charges, travellers are advised to take traveller’s cheques in US Dollars or Thai Baht.

Vehicles are well equipped with air conditioning. Wearing a seatbelt in Laos is still not common practice – be aware that the vehicles in which you travel may not be fitted with seatbelts in accordance with the current convention. In some areas, Toyota Hi-Ace or similar vans are used since they are the best choice available. The vehicles are perfectly fine but due to design, passengers in the back may have to lean forward slightly to see out the side windows, which are slightly lower than customary in western countries.

HEALTH: Please consult your doctor to discuss your particular health or immunisation requirements.  

MEDICAL: When travelling in Laos, it is advisable to avoid public hospitals as they may be unsanitary.  If a problem arises where you are in need of medical attention, the best option is to visit an international clinic.  Please contact your hotel or guide for information on clinic services and to find one that is appropriate for Western visitors.  Additionally, when travelling to Laos, it is important to remember to bring enough of your regular medication for the duration of your stay.

YELLOW FEVER VACCINATION:  A Yellow Fever Vaccination certificate is only required for travellers coming from – or in transit through an airport of – a country with risk of yellow fever transmission. The vaccination requirement is imposed by this country for protection against yellow fever since the principal mosquito vector Aedes aegypti is present in its territory.

If you are visiting Laos and you live in or have travelled through a yellow fever zone, then you need to have a yellow fever certificate to show that you have been vaccinated against the illness.  When you arrive in Laos, you will be asked for your yellow fever certificate. You need to show this at the medical counter before queuing for immigration.

Check to see if you have been in any of these places during the last six months. Please consult your doctor to discuss your particular health or immunisation requirements.

AFRICA - Risk of yellow fever transmission exists in these countries:

Angola, Benin, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, Republic of the Congo, Côte d’Ivoire, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Ethiopia, Gabon, Gambia, Ghana, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Kenya, Liberia, Mauritania, Niger, Mali, Nigeria, Senegal, Sierra Leone, South Sudan, Sudan, Togo, Uganda.

AMERICAS - Risk of yellow fever transmission exists in these countries:

Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, French Guiana, Guyana, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Suriname, Trinidad and Tobago, Venezuela.

Validity of Certificate:  A yellow fever certificate is valid for ten years after vaccination.

Children: A vaccination certificate is required for children over one year of age.

Common Procedure:

1.   Complete yellow fever form

2.   Wait in queue for an assigned health counter

3.   Submit required documents to immigration officer and proceed to arrival immigration counter

In general, Laos is very safe for travellers, although petty theft does happen once in a while.  Where possible, secure your valuables in the hotel safe.  Remember to record your credit card information and avoid carrying large sums of money—just in case.

• Have a photocopy of the personal information section of your passport and the visa page, and keep it separate from your passport. This makes getting a replacement much easier if your passport is lost or stolen.
• Carry a list of emergency contact numbers with you and fill out the emergency contact information section in your passport (if there is one).
• Do not leave your wallet or mobile phone in the back pocket of your pants or anywhere else  that’s easily reached (like an outer  zip-up  compartment  on  a  backpack).  Be especially vigilant in markets and other crowded places like ports and train stations.
• Use common sense and don’t walk alone after dark. If confronted by a mugger, do not resist. You’re always better off taking a taxi or tuk tuk at night; ask your hotel or restaurant to arrange.
• If you choose to ride a motorcycle or bike, wear a helmet. It is not recommended for non- experienced drivers to drive a vehicle or ride a motorbike.
• When crossing the street on foot, move at a slow and steady pace.

There is a danger from unexploded land mines in many parts of Laos, particularly in Xieng Khuang Province (Plain of Jars) and the Lao-Vietnamese border area along the Ho Chi Minh Trail.  You are advised to not stray off well used roads and paths. Mined areas are often unmarked.

Laotian cuisine shows the clear influence of Thai, Vietnamese and Chinese cooking, with its widespread use of chilli, fish sauce, soy and Asian herbs like lemongrass, ginger, galangal and Asian basil. There’s also a subtle French influence dating back to the colonial administration, most obvious in the baguette sandwiches sold on the streets of Vientiane.

All water should be regarded as being potentially contaminated. Water used for drinking, brushing teeth or making ice should have first been boiled or otherwise sterilised. Milk is unpasteurised and should be boiled. Powdered or tinned milk is available and is advised. Avoid dairy products that are likely to have been made from unboiled milk. Only eat well-cooked meat and fish. Vegetables should be cooked and fruit peeled.

Tipping is not typical in Laos, but in tourist areas, many people do tip and around 10% is appropriate.

Laos has two seasons. The green season runs from May through October and the dry season from November to April. For the most part, Laos is hot, although there is a good deal of  fluctuation between summer and winter temperatures. The capital, Vientiane, ranges from the upper-20s Celsius (mid-70s Fahrenheit) in January to mid-30s Celsius (mid-90s Fahrenheit) in April and May. In the mountainous region in Luang Prabang, however, temperatures can plummet to near freezing at night in December and January. During the rainy season, the highest precipitation is in southern Laos.

Please note: It can sometimes be smoky during February and March (in Northern Laos) when local people burn the rice fields and forests to prepare for the annual crops. This may affect visibility and result in minor respiratory irritation.

Laos is a conservative Buddhist culture and improper dress can be offensive and inappropriate. Shorts, short skirts or revealing clothing are not appropriate especially when visiting temples or any other religious sites. Lightweight, cotton clothing is ideal all year round. A winter sweater or jacket and socks may be needed in the cool season, particularly when visiting the mountains or highlands where the weather can dip to cooler temperatures during the evenings.

We recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes, which can be easily removed when required. Sandals, thongs or flip-flops are very convenient footwear, especially for visiting temples where shoes must be removed prior to entering.

Internet cafes are located in the major towns and are becoming increasingly common in places frequented by backpackers. A high-speed connection is only available in places such as Vientiane and Luang Prabang. In Vientiane the best streets to head to for fast internet connection and internet cafes with Skype and air-conditioning are Th Samsenthai and Th Setthathriat. Expect to pay around 7000K an hour for broadband. Wi-Fi is increasingly available in many Western orientated bars and cafes.

In Laos the power sockets are of type A, B, C, E and F. The standard voltage is 230 V and the standard frequency is 50 Hz. If your appliance's plug doesn't match the shape of these sockets, you will need a travel plug adapter in order to plug in.

In Laos, the standard voltage is 230 V and the frequency is 50 Hz. You can use your electric appliances in Laos if the standard voltage in your country is in between 220 - 240 V (as is in the UK, Europe, Australia and most of Asia and Africa). Manufacturers take these small deviations into account. If the standard voltage in your country is in the range of 100 V - 127 V (as is in the US, Canada and most South American countries), you need a voltage converter in Laos  If your appliance isn’t compatible with 220-240 volts, a voltage converter will be necessary.

CULTURAL ETIQUETTE: The Lao people consider it disrespectful to touch someone on their head. It's also impolite to gesture with your feet or prop them up on furniture; to do so implies that you look down on the people sitting around you.

• Keeping an arm’s length of personal space is the norm.
• Touching during conversations is limited; this is especially the case for the opposite sex.
• Revealing clothing is unacceptable. Shorts are generally fine—as long as they aren’t too short.
• When visiting pagodas and temples, shorts and tank-tops are unacceptable. Your knees and shoulders must be covered. Footwear and socks must be removed in pagodas. Shoes are usually removed upon entering private homes too. Please do not wear orange when visiting a temple, as this is the colour of the monks.
• Public displays of affection between men and women may embarrass your host. On the other hand, it’s perfectly normal for a pair of men or a pair of women to link arms or hold hands.

Beckoning someone with the palm upwards is considered rude. The correct way to call someone over is to extend your hand with the palm downward and flap your fingers towards your wrist. To ask for the bill in a restaurant or shop, extend one hand in front of you with the palm raised and pretend to write on your palm with the other hand.

TRAVEL INSURANCE: It is highly recommended that all clients obtain comprehensive Travel Insurance. Please provide Epic with a copy of your insurance policy prior to travel. If you require assistance in obtaining travel insurance please contact us.  Policies should be checked to ensure that they include ALL medical situations as well as the following:

• Hospitalisation and repatriation
• Cancellation
• Missed flight connections
• Loss of baggage
• Loss/breakage of valuables such as cameras (care should be taken on rough roads)

TOILETRIES AND MEDICATIONS:  While imported beauty products are available in Vientiane and Luang Prabang, you are advised to pack staples like sunscreen, contact lens solution, tampons and mosquito repellent. It is advised that your prescription medication is in its original box with the label along with the prescription to avoid any complications that may arise at Customs. Many medicines are available in Southeast Asia without prescriptions. If you plan to purchase medication, choose a reputable supplier and read the labels carefully, particularly paying attention to expiration date. Please note a lot of the available medication in Laos is purchased from Thailand with labels only in Thai.

TRAVEL DOCUMENTS: You should bring a money-belt to safely carry your travel documents and cash, and ensure that your luggage has a lock. Bring photo-copies of your passport and visa, plus some extra passport-sized photos if you’re applying for on-arrival visas. When flying into or within Laos, you will probably be given baggage claim tags (they will be stuck to the back of your ticket). Keep these, as you might need to show them when leaving the airport.

TRAVEL DOCUMENTS: You should bring a money-belt to safely carry your travel documents and cash, and ensure that your luggage has a lock. Bring photo-copies of your passport and visa, plus some extra passport-sized photos if you’re applying for on-arrival visas.

PACKING ESSENTIALS: What you take will naturally depend upon where you are travelling, and it can often be difficult to decide what to pack, nevertheless the following should act as a useful checklist of essential items worth thinking about taking.

• Passport – Ensure that it is valid and in good condition with empty pages available.  Make a photocopy as well
• Copy of visa approval letter (if visa is to be obtained on arrival)
• Insurance – Ensure that it will be valid for the whole journey
• Passport Photos – Will invariably be needed for identification passes and certain overseas visas
• Debit/credit card cancellation numbers
• Air tickets and Itinerary
• Money belt – Ensure that it is discrete and comfortable to wear
• First Aid kit - Basic travel kit to cover basic mishaps which may occur along the way
• Personal Medication –with international doctors’ note to ensure easy passage of medication across international borders
• Sun block – High UVA protection ideally
• Sunglasses & sunhat
• Comfortable walking shoes and sandals/flip flops for visiting temples or pagodas.
• Mosquito spray & insect repellent
• Long sleeve top and trousers – Useful to protect against mosquitoes at dawn and dusk and the sun through the day
• Camera & battery
• Security code pad lock
• Electricity adapters
• Sufficient amount of currency in USD small and large notes to last the duration of your stay.

GRATUITIES: While not compulsory, tipping is greatly appreciated throughout Southeast Asia, especially in the service industry. If you are pleased with the services provided, please use the below guide for reference. Please note all prices are quoted in USD

• Guides (>4 travellers): $10 - $15 per day per traveller
• Drivers (>4 travellers): $5 - $7 per day per traveller
• Guides (<5 travellers): $5 - $10 per day per traveller
• Drivers (<5 travellers): $3 - $5 per day per traveller
• Restaurants: 5-10% of the total bill
• Hotel Maid Service: $2 - $3 per day
• Porters: $2 - $3 at time of service
• Local Boat Transport: $5 - $10 per boat
• Overnight Cruise: $20 - $30 per person per night (to cover all crew)

TIME ZONES: Laos operates on Greenwich meantime +7 hours. Please note that Laos does not have daylight saving hours.

COUNTRY CODE: Laos country code is + 856

MOBILE PHONES: Laos uses a GSM (GSM900/1800) mobile phone network. There are 4 main phone carriers in Lao, with Lao telecom and Beeline having the widest coverage. It is easy to purchase a pre- paid SIM card in Laos (approx. US$4) – just make sure your phone is unlocked to accept SIMs from other networks, or buy another handset. Handsets are cheaper in Thailand and Vietnam.

INTERNET: Many hotels have wireless (Wi-Fi) internet access available in the lobby or business centre. There are many cheap internet cafes in Vientiane and Luang Prabang, and a couple in smaller towns. Be careful not to save your password or sensitive information on public computer terminals.