Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos Destination Guide
The place
Everywhere you go you will find the old and the new competing for its place in the present. Some of the distances are vast and it’s easier to travel by air. However, taking that option all the time could deprive you of some of the most idyllic scenes. Whilst some of the roads are rough by our standards, it is worth a bit of hardship. Remember though, that these are still developing countries and whilst things have improved substantially, the infrastructure can become frayed at the edges at times and the best laid plans can go awry. Many international hotel chains are opening hotels in Indochina and hotel standards are very good. The people are still not completely used to their new role in tourism, so the service might not always be as efficient as you would wish, although it is more than made up for by these charming people’s evident desire to please.
The culture
Whilst travelling around this fascinating region, you will meet and see happy, smiling people full of curiosity about you. Don’t be surprised or unsettled – they just love to express their country’s hospitality and friendliness. Touched by the influence of the French and the ravages of their war-torn past, this is a region which is swathed in history.
The facts
Geography: Located between Thailand and China, the countries of Indochina are linked by the Mekong River. They offer coastal plains, mountains and miles of deserted coastline. Vietnam, with a population of some 86 million is the largest followed by Cambodia with 14 million and Laos with 5 million.
Passports: You will need a full British passport valid for a minimum of six months beyond your date of return.
Visas: Visas are required. For Vietnam, a type C1 visa should be obtained prior to departure from the UK. For further information, contact the Vietnamese Embassy; tel: 0207 937 1912 or visit their website at www.vietnamembassy.org.uk/consular.html. We can provide you with details of a specialist agency, who can assist you with the process. For Laos the visa will be issued on arrival at a charge of US$35, and in Cambodia at a charge of US$20. Payments should be made in cash and you will also require one passport size photograph per visa.
Vaccinations: Vaccinations are strongly recommended. For further information, please consult your doctor.
Travelling time: There are no direct flights from the UK. However Ho Chi Minh is less than 2 hours by air from Bangkok, Singapore and Kuala Lumpur, 21/2 hours from Hong Kong and 71/2 hours from Doha.
Local time: GMT + 7 hours
Currency: US dollars are essential in small denominations and are often more useful than local currencies.
Departure tax: Departure tax of approx US$20 in Laos and US$25 in Cambodia is payable locally.
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Indochina - Map
