   
Climate
You can travel to Vietnam, Cambodia and
Laos all year round. In general, the ‘wet’
season lasts from May to October, and from
October to December in central Vietnam.
This usually means more humidity and a
clearing shower most afternoons. It’s still a
good time to travel, especially as temperatures
only vary by several degrees all year round in
south and central areas.
Northern Vietnam experiences more distinct
seasons and can be quite cold from
December to February. You’ll probably also
need a jacket at night in northern Laos during
this time. Mountain areas are always cooler
than low lying areas.
Visas
Tourist visas for Vietnam must be purchased
before leaving Australia. You’ll need to apply
for a multi-entry visa if entering Vietnam more
than once during your holiday.
While you can obtain tourist visas at major
airports and border crossings in Cambodia
and Laos, we recommend organising your
visas before you leave.
Your passport should have at least 6 months
validity when travelling to these countries.
We can advise you of visa costs and how
to apply, or organise your visas for you.
Currencies
Vietnam:
The currency is the Dong and notes range
in size from 100 to 100,000D.
Cambodia:
Uses the Riel and notes range from
100 to 110,000 Riel.
Laos:
Uses the Kip and notes range from
100 to 20,000.
In general, cash and travellers cheques are
the best way to go.
Credit cards have limited use, mainly in
larger hotels or businesses in major cities,
although you can use them for cash advances
at larger banks.
A small number of ATMs are available
in Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, Vientiane
and Luang Prabang and in all major
Vietnamese cities.
   
Health
It’s worth visiting your doctor or local Traveller’s
Medical and Vaccination Centre before visiting
Indochina.
Always drink bottled water while travelling
throughout Indochina and avoid drinks with ice.
Safety and security
By world standards, all three countries are
safe for travellers. Just use your normal
common sense.
Avoid walking in poorly lit areas in Phnom
Penh, Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City at night
and take taxis instead.
Make use of safety deposit boxes when
offered.
Local time
All three countries are 3 hours behind AEST
and 4 hours during daylight savings.
Electricity
Voltage is 220-240 volts throughout Indochina
and you need the following plugs:
Departure taxes
Vietnam:
Departure taxes are included in your airfare.
Cambodia:
USD6 for domestic fl ights and USD25 for
international flights.
Laos:
USD10 for international flights.
In Cambodia and Laos departure taxes are
paid at the airport.
Tips
This has become increasingly popular in Asia
as tourism grows. Use your own discretion but
it’s worth tipping porters and for good service
in hotels, restaurants, and from your drivers
and guides.
Travel insurance
We strongly recommend that you take out
comprehensive travel insurance which
includes coverage for medical expenses
and evacuation.
Ask us about insurance cover or buy directly
from your insurance company.
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