Welcome to Intrepid real life experiences... we hope that you enjoy exploring the world as much as we do.
Take the road to Angkor and uncover the incredible treasures of Indochina. From fine dining in the melting pot of Bangkok and the magnificent ruins of the once-powerful ancient Khmer Empire, to the warm smiles of the Cambodian people and the elegant French charm of Ho Chi Minh City, there's just so much that will dazzle.
Style
Trip Map
Itinerary
Culture Shock Rating
Physical Rating
Physical Preparation
Included Activities
Optional Activities
Spending Money
Tipping
Important Notes
Group Size
Accommodation
Meals
Meal Inclusions
This is how it all started; the trips that made us one of the world's leading operators of small group adventures. And they're still as popular as ever! Original trips are all about variety: the places, the people, the activities, and even the accommodation and transport we use. From homestays to market trips to visits to community projects, there's a new experience every day, with many activities included.
Sa-wat dee! Welcome to Thailand.
You can arrive at any time on day 1 as there are no activities planned until the important welcome meeting. Your leader will leave a note at reception telling you where and when this important meeting will take place. Please ask a member of reception for this information.
Tonight we stay in a 2 star standard hotel with restaurant.
Check-in time at our joining point hotel is after 2.00 pm. Early check-in is not guaranteed, however if you arrive early, luggage storage can be arranged. Speak to the hotel reception on arrival. Please note that luggage storage in our hotels is at your own risk and generally these areas are not locked or completely secure so we recommend you bring your own luggage lock.
We depart Bangkok on day 2 so if you wanted to spend more time visiting the many sights of Bangkok, we recommend you arrive a day or two early.
Perhaps take a longtail boat to explore Bangkok's web of canals. Life along these canals is very laid-back, and is a great contrast to the hustle and bustle of city living. We also recommend visiting Wat Pho, home to the country's largest reclining Buddha. Enjoy a traditional Thai massage at a school that teaches massage within the temple. Alternatively, you can enjoy a massage somewhere nearer to your hotel; this is a Thai specialty and is highly recommended.
It's a long days drive from Bangkok to Siem Reap in Cambodia, approx 8-9 hours including a border crossing (4 hours to the Thai-Cambodia border at Poipet) and lunch stop.
On days 3 and 4, we temple-hop from sunrise to sunset to make the most of our visit to the world-famous Angkor complex with our local guide. These temples were built between the 9th and 13th centuries when the Khmer Empire was the pre-eminent influence in South-East Asia. The temples were believed to represent the cosmic world and were set in perfect balance, symmetry and composition. The intricately carved bas-reliefs and architectural designs are mind-blowing and there are spectacular photographic opportunities at any time of day. The ruins are scattered over an area of some 160 sq km, but the main cluster of temples is close to Siem Reap so we will have plenty of time to fully appreciate the great archaeological sites of Angkor Wat, the Bayon and the jungle-covered Ta Prohm. Depending on the season there may be the option to visit the Tonle Sap Lake for a look at local life.
On these nights we stay in a 2 star standard hotel with restaurant and swimming pool.
On day 5 we leave Siem Reap on our private bus to Cambodia's capital, Phnom Penh (driving time approx. 6 hours). A great opportunity to look at the real Cambodia, we will make several stops at points of interest along the way, including an opportunity to sample the local cuisine of deep fried spiders.
In Phnom Penh we confront Cambodia's tragic past, on a guided tour of the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, a former school which served as a Khmer Rouge torture centre. We then head out of the city to the Choeung Ek Memorial, where a stupa made up of some 8,000 human skulls marks the site of the infamous Killing Fields. To learn about a brighter period in Cambodian history, make an optional visit to the Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda. Phnom Penh has many other attractions also, and there is free time to explore the Russian Market, the National Museum or Wat Phnom, a peaceful temple situated on a hill for which the city is named. You could also take a stroll along the famous Sisowath Quay and enjoy a coffee or cocktail at one of the many cafes while observing the busy river traffic.
On these nights we stay in a centrally located 2 star standard hotel.
Leaving Phnom Penh, we journey down the Mekong by speedboat to Chau Doc, crossing into Vietnam along the way. As we near Chau Doc, we get a great look at river life in the Mekong Delta, and if you're lucky, you might also get to see a fabulous sunset over the Mekong (approx. 4-5 hours).
Tonight we stay in a centrally located 2 star standard hotel.
This morning we travel by chartered bus to Ho Chi Minh City (approx. 8 hours). Ho Chi Minh City is the largest city in Vietnam with a population of just over six million people. The huge number of people rushing about their daily lives gives Ho Chi Minh City a dynamic atmosphere. The city is characterised by a vast array of sights and sounds: ancient pagodas, mosques and cathedrals sit squarely up against the former Presidential Palace, the War Museum, historic Dong Khoi Street (the Rue Catinat from Graham Greene's novel The Quiet American) and the bustling markets of Ben Thanh and Cholon (Chinatown). Much of the city's life takes place on the busy streets lined with stores, shops, stalls and vendors with their wares spread out on the footpath selling everything from soup to sophisticated electronics! The French influence is evident in the excellent baguettes and coffee on offer.
We have a few hours in the afternoon to explore the frenetic heart of the city or to bargain for final purchases at the historic Ben Thanh Market before a final dinner.
Tonight we stay in a centrally located 2 star standard hotel.
There are no activities planned for day 9 and you are able to depart the hotel at any time. Check out time from the hotel is at 12 noon. If you are departing later, you can arrange luggage storage at the hotel. We recommend that you book additional accommodation to further explore the sights and sounds of this engaging city.
The itinerary attached is correct at time of printing. Please note: occasionally our itineraries are updated during the year to incorporate improvements stemming from past travellers' comments and our own research. Our brochure is usually released in November each year. As such the information given in this itinerary may be slightly different to that in the brochure. It is VERY IMPORTANT that you print and review a final copy of your Trip Notes a couple of days prior to travel, in case there have been changes that affect your plans. For the latest updated trip notes please visit our website: www.intrepidtravel.com
You will probably have experienced food like this in restaurants back home and English is commonly spoken. Services are available most of the time but there may be some cultural differences.
Some easy physical activities included in your trip. No physical preparation is required to make the most of the journey.
This is a list of included activities on this trip. All other activities are optional and at your own expense. For a list of optional
activities and sightseeing available on this trip, see the optional activities section below. If you choose not to participate in the included
activities on this itinerary, the cost will not be refunded.
Guided tour of Angkor temples - Siem Reap
Angkor temples pass (3 days) - Siem Reap
Tour of Tuol Sleng Museum - Phnom Penh
Choeung Ek Killing Fields - Phnom Penh
Meal at an Intrepid supported organisation
We list the following optional activities for your information. This is not an exhaustive list and should be used as a guide only.
They are not necessarily endorsed or recommended by Intrepid nor included in price of this trip. If you do any of them, you do so at your own risk and it must be clearly understood that your participation is your own decision and does not form part of your contract with Intrepid.
Commissions
The receipt of commissions or kickbacks in exchange for recommending particular shops or services is ingrained in the culture of the Indochina tourism industry. Rather than turn a blind eye to this unavoidable issue in some areas Intrepid has established a centralised fund whereby contributions from recommended suppliers are distributed directly into The Intrepid Foundation. Details of these arrangements are in your country booklet provided at the commencement of your trip.
A priority in establishing this fund is that the experience of you our traveller is not compromised in any way. Please let us know via the feedback form completed after your trip if we are successfully meeting this objective.
The Grand Palace, Bangkok â“ US$12
Wat Po, Bangkok - US$2
Landmine Museum, Siem Reap - US$2
Half day village tour, Siem Reap â“ US$10 (transport additional)
Tonle Sap Lake boat trip, Siem Reap - US$5-15 (Price includes boat, driver and entry to the Tonle Sap Lake. Price varies depending on how many people are on the boat & which village you visit) Transport to the Lake is additional
Remork to Tonle Sap lake, Siem Reap - US$10
Royal Palace & Silver Pagoda, Phnom Penh - US$7
Wat Phnom, Phnom Penh - US$2
National Museum, Phnom Penh - US$3
Cyclo tour, Phnom Penh â“ US$3
Sam Mountain trip, Chau Doc - US$4
The Reunification Palace, Ho Chi Minh City - US$2
Saigon Water Park, Ho Chi Minh City - US$4
Got extra time before or after your Intrepid adventure? Maybe there is an URBAN ADVENTURE in one of the cities that you're visiting on your trip?
Intrepid's Urban Adventures are the city tour with a difference - there are more than 100 to choose from in over 30 cities around the world, with new trips added regularly. They are a great way to get under the skin of the city you're visiting, in just a few hours. To make a booking contact your local travel agent, Intrepid consultant or visit www.urbanadventures.com
Every traveller is different and therefore spending money requirements will vary. Some travellers may drink more than others while other travellers like to purchase more souvenirs than most. Please consider your own spending habits when it comes to allowing for drinks, shopping, participating in optional activities and tipping. Please also remember the following specific recommendations when planning your trip.
If you are happy with the services provided a tip - though not compulsory - is appropriate. While it may not be customary to you, it is of great significance to the people who will take care of you during your travels, inspires excellent service, and is an entrenched feature of the tourism industry across many Intrepid destinations. Please note we recommend that any tips are given directly to the intended recipient by a member of your group as our group leaders are prohibited from collecting cash for tips.
The following amounts are based on local considerations and feedback from our past travellers:
Restaurants:
- Vietnam + Cambodia: Local markets and basic restaurants - round your bill up to the nearest US$1. More up-market restaurants we suggest 5% to 10% of your bill.
- Thailand: Local markets and basic restaurants - round your bill up to the nearest THB20. More up-market restaurants we suggest 10% to 12% of your bill.
Local guides: Throughout your trip you may at times have a local guide in addition to your leader.
- Vietnam + Cambodia: We suggest US$3 per day for local guides.
- Thailand: We suggest TBH100 per day for local guides
Porters: Throughout your trip you may at times have a porter in addition to your leader.
- Vietnam + Cambodia: We suggest US$0.5 per day for porters.
- Thailand: We suggest THB80 per day for porters.
Drivers: You may have a range of drivers on your trip. Some may be with you for a short journey while others may be with you for several days.
- Vietnam + Cambodia: We would suggest a higher tip for those more involved with the group however a base of US$0.5 per day is generally appropriate.
- Thailand: We would suggest a higher tip for those more involved with the group however a base of THB50 per day is generally appropriate.
Local transport:
- Vietnam + Cambodia: For a city tour we suggest US$1-US$2 per day.
- Thailand: For a city tour we suggest THB50 per day.
Your Group Leader: You may also consider tipping your leader for outstanding service throughout your trip. The amount is entirely a personal preference, however as a guideline US$2-US$4 per person, per day can be used for Vietnam + Cambodia / THB100 per person, per day can be used for Thailand. Of course you are free to tip more or less as you see fit, depending on your perception of service quality and the length of your trip. Remember, a tip is not compulsory and should only be given when you receive excellent service.
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During public holidays and festival periods in Cambodia many businesses may close, transport may be extremely busy and travel times may increase. During these times please be patient and consider these moments as an opportunity to interact with the locals. Particularly worth noting are Khmer New Year (3 days in mid April), Pchum Ben (3 days in early October & Water Festival (3 days in late November) Please see country information for Cambodia for dates.
The land border from Thailand to Cambodia is sometimes closed by flooding, however now that the road between Poipet and Siem Reap is fully sealed this is likely to be a rare occurrence. In such cases we will need to alter the itinerary, and fly Bangkok to Siem Reap at clientâs expense. Please allow extra funds for this possibility.
Border Crossings:
On day 2 we cross the border from Thailand to Cambodia
The Thailand border is Aranyaprathet
The Cambodian border is Poipet
On day 7 we cross the border from Cambodia into Vietnam
The Cambodian border is Khaorm Sam Nor Kaoh Roka
The Vietnam border is Song Thien
To help calculate the exact dates of these crossings we have found the following website to be very useful - http://www.timeanddate.com/date/dateadd.html
Maximum of 12 travellers per group
Hotels (8 nts)
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Some Hotels throughout Vietnam & Cambodia have windowless rooms, or windows that do not necessarily have a view. This can be due to high population density in large cities and local building standards do not require rooms to have windows. We do request rooms with windows however they are not always available.
While travelling with us you will experience the vast array of wonderful food available in the world. Your group leader will be able to suggest favourite restaurants during your trip. On our camping trips we often cook the region's specialties so you don't miss out. To give you the maximum flexibility in deciding where, what and with whom to eat generally not all meals are included in the trip price. This also gives you more budgeting flexibility. As a rule our groups tend to eat together to enable you to taste a larger variety of dishes and enjoy each other's company. There is no obligation to do this though. Please check the 'meal inclusions' section of these notes for details of meals included.
Allow USD $180 for meals not included.
1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch
Please note that breakfasts are often simple (eggs, bread, jam and coffee/tea would be most common).
Private bus, boat, walking
There are some long travel days and some of the transport can be quite cramped and without air conditioning.
All Intrepid group trips are accompanied by one of our group leaders. The aim of the group leader is to take the hassle out of your travels and to help you have the best trip possible. Intrepid endeavours to provide the services of an experienced leader however, due to the seasonality of travel, rare situations may arise where your leader is new to a particular region or training other group leaders.
Your leader will provide information on the places you are travelling through, offer suggestions for things to do and see, recommend great local eating venues and introduce you to our local friends. While not being guides in the traditional sense you can expect them to have a broad general knowledge of the places visited on the trip, including historical, cultural, religious and social aspects. At Intrepid we aim to support local guides who have specialised knowledge of the regions we visit. If you were interested in delving deeper into the local culture at a specific site or location then your leader can recommend a local guide service in most of the main destinations of your trip.
Grande Ville Hotel
903 Mahachai Road
Chinatown
Bangkok
Thailand
Phone: +66 (0) 2 225 0050
Fax: +66 (0) 2 225 7593
Located in Chinatown, right on the skirt of "Rattanakosin Island", the ancient capital city of Siam. Within walking distance is the Chao Praya River ferry where you can jump on and visit many of the attractions of Bangkok including the Grand Palace or Khoa San road, just a couple of stops away. The hotel has 24hr reception and rooms include private bathrooms, AC, TV, telephone, mini-fridge, & room service. There is a roof top bar which has a 360 degree view of the area - a great place for a sunset drink.
www.grandevillehotel.com
Metered taxi ranks are located outside the airport entrance on the ground floor. Go out of the customs hall and walk outside the airport where there is a table with a sign saying "metered taxis". The cost is the metered fare plus THB50 surcharge. If the taxi uses the toll way it is up to an extra THB70. The total fare should be about US$11, (THB400). Non-metered taxis are also available, where you will be given a docket to pay the driver a set price of US$20 (THB700).
An arrival transfer from the airport is available if purchased at the time of booking. Transfers cannot be arranged on arrival. Please advise your flight arrival details at least 14 days prior to your departure. If you have pre-booked an airport transfer you will be met on arrival. On your arrival after taking all your luggage and walk thru the custom counter to go outside please look for the INTERNATIONAL ARRIVALS DOOR B Or DOOR C and look for INTREPID and your name signs. Our staff will Meet &Greet you and take care you to the car/van and arrange the transfer from Airport to hotel.
If you have any problem cannot find our staff with INTREPID sign please go to the INFORMATION COUNTER near the EXIT DOOR 6 or contact ATTA Counter (Association of Thai Travel Agents) to call our 24 hours service phone contact 081 658 2727 or 089 776 7492 and wait at this counter until our staff come and take care you to the van.
Check-in time is 12 midday.
We don't expect any problems (and nor should you!) but if for any reason you are unable to commence your
group trip as scheduled, please contact your starting point hotel, requesting that you speak to or leave a message for your trip leader.
If you have pre-booked an airport transfer (where available) and have not made contact with our representative within 30 minutes of clearing
customs and immigration, we recommend that you make your own way to the Starting Point hotel, following the Joining Instructions in the Trip
Notes. Should this occur, please apply to your travel agent for a refund of the transfer cost on your return.
No refund is available on missed transfers or portions of your trip owing to a different flight arrival or delayed flight arrival. Any
additional cost incurred in order to meet up with your group is at your own expense.
Sen Hotel
82 Le Lai St
District 1
Ho Chi Minh City
Vietnam
Phone: +84 8 3925 3873
Fax: +84 8 3925 3780
Located in the central business and commercial district, the newly renovated Sen Hotel features 17 well appointed rooms, and lift. Room facilities include IDD phone, air conditioner, cable TV, mini bar, bathroom with bathtub, and natural daylight.
For trips departing on a Wednesday and Saturday, the Sen hotel is the finishing point.
A departure transfer from our hotel to the airport is available if arranged at the time of booking. Transfers cannot be arranged during the trip. Please advise your flight arrival details at least 14 days prior to your trips start date. If you plan to stay longer, this departure transfer can only be offered in conjunction with post-tour accommodation booked through Intrepid.
A metered taxi from the hotel to the airport should cost about US$7 (VND 120,000) and should take around 30 minutes (depending on traffic).
If you have booked a post trip airport transfer, please ask your leader to confirm with our local operator the time of departure and meeting place. If you have any problems please call our hotline at +84 903 117 770.
Check-out time from the hotel is 12 noon. If you are departing later, you can arrange luggage storage at the hotel.
Hong Thien Loc 2
269 Le Thanh Ton Street
District 1
Ho Chi Minh City
Vietnam
Phone: 84 8 3824 2616
Fax: 84 8 3824 2618
Formerly known as the Hai Hai Hotel. Located in the heart of the city and within walking distance to Ben Thanh Market the hotel comprises a restaurant, lift, and 30 rooms with AC, phone, TV, minibar and private bathroom.
A departure transfer from our hotel to the airport is available if arranged at the time of booking. Transfers cannot be arranged during the trip. Please advise your flight arrival details at least 14 days prior to your trips start date. If you plan to stay longer, this departure transfer can only be offered in conjunction with post-tour accommodation booked through Intrepid.
A metered taxi from the hotel to the airport should cost about US$7 (VND 120,000) and should take around 30 minutes (depending on traffic).
If you have booked a post trip airport transfer, please ask your leader to confirm with our local operator the time of departure and meeting place. If you have any problems please call our hotline at +84 903 117 770.
Check-out time from the hotel is 12 noon. If you are departing later, you can arrange luggage storage at the hotel.
In the case of a genuine crisis or emergency, Intrepid's Thailand Office can be reached on Tel: +66 898 103 722 (Thailand, Laos, Malaysia, Borneo & Indonesia) contact Tel: +855 92 555 969 (Cambodia). For all other enquiries please contact our Reservations department which is open 24 hours, 6 days per week (excluding Sunday). For further contact details please use the following page: http://www.intrepidtravel.com/ourtrips/contact/.
Please also make sure you have access to an additional USD$400, to be used when unforeseen incidents or circumstances outside our control (eg. a natural disaster, civil unrest or an outbreak of bird flu) necessitate a change to our planned route.
Please note that visas are the responsibility of the individual traveller. The visa requirements for your trip vary
depending on where you are from and where you are going. We keep the following information up to date as much as possible,
but rules do change. It is important that you check for yourself.
Make sure your passport is valid for at least 6 months after your return date. Be sure to check the date you require a visa from and the length of time you will need to cover, especially if you change countries during your trip.
Cambodia: A visa is required for all nationalities. You can obtain your Cambodian visa in advance from your home country, please check with your closest Cambodian embassy and allow a few weeks for this. It is also possible to get your Cambodian visa in advance in Bangkok, please allow extra time (minimum 1 full working day) in Bangkok to do this. Approx. cost is USD30 from Bangkok. You can also, if required, obtain your Cambodian visa on arrival at the border crossing or airport for approximately USD25 - please bring one passport photo (Cost subject to change without notice from the Cambodian Government).
Please Note:
The Thailand - Cambodia border crossing is at :Aranyaprathet / Poipet
The Cambodian - Vietnam border crossing is at: Kaam SamnorKaoh Roke/Song Thien
If your point of contact is requested, please write: Freedom Hotel, Road #6, Siem Reap, Cambodia. Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months AFTER your entry date into the country or you may be denied entry at the border.
Thailand: Citizens of Australia, NZ, UK, USA do not need visas to visit Thailand as a tourist. If entering by air you will be granted a 30 day stay. If entering by land you will be granted a 15 day stay only. In addition for those coming overland into Thailand you will require an onward ticket out of the country to obtain the visa. A visa extension can be obtained in Thailand at an immigration office and the cost is 1900 THB. Alternately you can obtain a visa before departure at your local Thai Embassy or Consulate that will allow a 30 day stay when entering at an overland border.
Citizens of other countries should check with the relevant consulates as to whether a visa is required.
Vietnam: Please refer to your relevant country visa information for up to date information about your visa requirements in Vietnam as there are many countries who may be exempt from requiring a visa if their stay is up to 15 days. If you are of one of these nationalities, and staying in Vietnam for more than 15 days, you will be required to obtain a tourist visa extension in advance. In all other instances, please obtain a visa before arriving on the tour. You should allow 3 weeks for processing. The cost is US$60 to $100. When writing the anticipated entry date, please write the date 2 DAYS PRIOR to your trip's arrival in Vietnam (remember to calculate which date your trip will arrive in Vietnam if travelling on an overland itinerary, that is, it may not be on day one). This will allow for any changes to the itinerary due to unforeseen circumstances. Remember to keep the customs and immigration form you receive on arrival, as you need it to complete exit formalities on departure.
If your visa application asks for a point of contact, please write: Intrepid Indochina, 57A Nguyen Khac Hieu St., Hanoi, Vietnam Ph +84 4 3715 0996.
Laundry facilities are offered by some of our hotels for a charge. In addition, laundry services can be found outside our hotel in all major cities. There may be times when you may want to or have to do your own laundry so we suggest you bring non polluting/biodegradable soap.
What you need to bring will vary according to the trip style you have chosen, the countries you are visiting and when you are travelling. Generally speaking you should pack as lightly as possible. On the vast majority of our trips you are expected to carry your own luggage and although you will not be required to walk long distances with your luggage (max 30 minutes) we recommend keeping the weight under 10kg/22lb.
Most travellers carry their luggage in a backpack, although an overnight bag with a shoulder strap would suffice if you travel lightly. Smaller bags or backpacks with wheels are convenient although we recommend your bag has carry straps. You will also need a day pack/bag to carry water and a camera etc for daytrips.
Intrepid is collecting old spectacles (prescription or sunglasses) and hearing aids for three charities in Cambodia and Vietnam. They are reconfigured and fitted for disadvantaged Cambodian and Vietnamese people by professional ophthalmologists and audiologists. If you can help, please give them to your leader at the start of your trip.
When packing be aware that dress standards are conservative throughout Asia, especially outside major cities. To respect this and for your own comfort, we strongly recommend modest clothing. This means clothing that covers your shoulders and knees. Loose, lightweight, long clothing is both respectful and cool in the predominantly hot Asian climate. In many rural areas in Asia women will need to wear modest clothing even to swim. Singlets, tank tops and topless sun bathing are all unacceptable. When visiting religious sites men often need to wear long trousers and women a long skirt or sarong.
The following checklist is to be used as a guide only and is not intended to be a complete packing list. Any other items that you wish to pack are at your own discretion however you should attempt to comply with the suggested luggage weight limit.
Travel documents: passport, visas, travel insurance certificate, air tickets, Intrepid voucher
Health requirements arranged
Money: cash/credit card & money pouch
Day pack to carry your personal needs during the day
First aid kit (including Antihistamines)
Medication/prescriptions (it is a good idea to have a doctors letter if you are carrying a large amount of medication), travel sickness tablets if required
Prescription glasses and contact lens solution if required
Alarm clock
Torch/flashlight
Travel plug/international adapter
Insect repellent
Sunscreen, hat and sunglasses
Swimming costume
Lightweight travel towel
Ear plugs/eye mask
Comfortable walking shoes
Local language phrase book (mp3 language downloads available from www.intrepidtravel.com/languageguides)
Camera, film and/or memory cards with spare batteries
Personal audio player with spare batteries
Raincoat/umbrella
Waterproof jacket
Clothes for temples - long pants or long skirts, long sleeve tops
Tampons can be difficult to buy in Cambodia
Currency exchange rates often fluctuate. For the most up to date rates please refer to the following website:
www.oanda.com.
Generally the most convenient and cheapest way to obtain local currency in Asia is via an Automated Teller Machine (ATM) or Bancomat - this can draw from your home account or from a credit card (debit card) at a superior exchange rate. Most ATM's will also give you a cash advance on your credit card but be wary of high fees imposed by banks. Check with your bank for information on their international fees. When leaving home don't forget your PIN and make sure you know the telephone number for cancelling your card if it is stolen. Keep this in a safe place. Please ensure you have advised your bank of your intended travel and withdrawal locations. While traveller's cheques have security advantages exchanging them can be a lengthy process, commissions can be high (up to 10%) and they can be difficult to change in rural areas, on weekends and public holidays. If you choose to bring travellers cheques, make sure they are a major brand and major currency.
Please note that most establishments in Asia will not accept foreign currency notes that are old, torn or faded and they can be very difficult to exchange or extra fees added when exchanging at banks. Please ensure that you have new, clean notes.
Cambodia: Officially the Cambodian Riel (KHR) is the unit of currency. Unofficially however, US currency (USD) runs the country and is the currency you should bring, mostly in cash. Clean bills in small denominations are most useful. Notes should be 2000 series onwards. Traveller's cheques can be difficult to change. The use of credit cards is restricted, mainly to major hotels. Visa cash advances are available in major banks, and ATM's are common in most towns and most dispense KHR and USD.
Thailand: The official currency is the Thai Baht (THB). Travellers cheques can be difficult to change. The use of credit cards in businesses is restricted; however ATM's are now available just about on every corner.
Vietnam: We recommend that you use Vietnamese Dong (VND), the official currency, for all or most transactions in Vietnam. Some establishments will accept US currency (USD), but usually only for large purchases and in some restaurants and hotels that cater to tourists. ATMs are widely available in Vietnam, with the exception of smaller cities and rural areas. It is less convenient to exchange other currencies into or from VND, as black market currency exchanges are not really recommended and not all banks offer exchange services. It is not possible to exchange Vietnamese Dong outside the country, so convert or spend all your Dong before leaving. It can be very difficult to change traveller's cheques outside the big cities.
All departure taxes should be included in your international flight ticket.
If you need to be contacted while travelling we recommend email. Email cafes are generally available throughout the regions we visit, although it is possible you may be without email contact for several days on some itineraries. If someone wishes to contact you in an emergency while you are on one of our trips we recommend that they contact your local booking agent, or refer to our emergency contact details. We don't recommend that family and friends try to contact you through hotels, as they are subject to change and the reception staff may not speak English.
While we always endeavour to provide the best possible holiday experience, due to the nature of travel and the areas we visit sometimes things can and do go wrong. Should any issue occur while you are on your trip it is imperative that you discuss this with your group leader or our local partner straight away so that they can do their best to rectify the problem and save any potential negative impact on the rest of your trip.
We recognise that there may be times when your group leader/local partner may not be able to resolve a situation to your satisfaction - if this is the case please ask the leader if you may speak to their direct manager.
You may also choose to provide details in your online feedback which we ask you to complete within 30 days of the end of your trip but we do ask you to be aware that it is very difficult for us to provide any practical help after the trip is complete.
All Intrepid travellers need to be in good physical health in order to participate fully in the group travel experience. If in the opinion of our group leader or company representative any traveller is unable to complete the itinerary without undue risk to themselves and/or the rest of the group, Intrepid reserves the right to exclude them from all or part of a trip without refund. We therefore ask that you read the itinerary in these trip notes thoroughly and then realistically self-assess your physical ability to complete the trip as described. Please consult with your doctor if you have any doubts.
There are no specific health requirements for this trip. However, you should consult your doctor for up-to-date information and prescriptions for vaccinations, travel sickness tablets, anti-malarial requirements and any reasonably foreseeable illnesses before your departure. We recommend that you carry a first aid kit as well as any personal medical requirements (including a spare pair of glasses) as we do travel to areas that are away from medical facilities. Please be aware that for legal reasons any leaders/guides are prohibited from administering any type of drug including headache tablets and antibiotics. Please ensure that you are adequately prepared.
Please contact us at help@intrepidtravel.com should you require any clarification on what is involved on your itinerary. For travellers over 70 years a completed Intrepid Medical certificate is required.
Intrepid is very aware of the health issues raised by bird flu and SARS and these have been taken into consideration for all aspects of the trip you are about to take. Intrepid reserve the right to make last minute changes to any itinerary in the very unlikely occurrence that an area should suddenly be deemed to be unsafe because of an outbreak of bird flu, SARS or other disease.
Dengue Fever is common in Cambodia and Vietnam and can occur throughout the year. This virus is transmitted by mosquitoes. There is no vaccination against it, but there are preventative measures that you can take such as wearing long clothing, using repellent and being indoors particularly around dusk and dawn.
BANGKOK
For minor medical treatment
Bangkok International Clinic
95 Rambuttri Village, Soi Rambuttri,
Banglamphu
Tel: +66 2 629 5260
Open 10am to 10pm everyday
For serious medical treatment
Bangkok Hospital Medical Center
2 Soi Soonvijai 7, New Petchburi Rd,
Bangkapi , Huay Khwang Bangkok
Tel: +66 2310-3000 or 1719
Many national governments provide a regularly updated advice service on safety issues involved with international travel. We recommend that you check your government's advice for their latest travel information before departure. Please refer to our website's Safety page for links to major travel advisories and updates on safety issues affecting our trips: www.intrepidtravel.com/safety.
We strongly recommend the use of a neck wallet or money belt while travelling, for the safe-keeping of your passport, air tickets, cash and other valuable items. Leave your valuable jewellery at home - you won't need it while travelling. Many of our hotels have safety deposit boxes, which is the most secure way of storing your valuables. A lock is recommended for securing your luggage.
Your leader will accompany you on all included activities however during your trip you will have some free time to pursue your own interests, relax and take it easy or explore at your leisure. While your group leader will assist you with the available options in a given location, please note that any optional activities you undertake are not part of your Intrepid itinerary, and Intrepid makes no representations about the safety of the activity or the standard of the operators running them. Please use your own good judgment when selecting an activity in your free time. Please also note that your group leader has the authority to amend or cancel any part of the trip itinerary if it is deemed necessary due to safety concerns.
For more details on the type of conditions and safety standards you can expect on your trip, please refer to Intrepid's operational safety policy at www.intrepidtravel.com/safety.
We recommend that you take a moment to read through this information before travelling, and would appreciate any feedback on how well it is being implemented in the field.
Please be aware that while travelling there is the risk of pick-pocketing and petty theft, particularly in the more touristy areas. We recommend that you exercise caution when walking alone at night and encourage you to walk together and only on main, well lit thoroughfares. Be particularly vigilant on public transport, including keeping an eye on any luggage that is put underneath the seats or on overhead racks. Simple measures like carrying your day pack on your front, not hanging your bag over the back of your chair and wearing a money belt will reduce any chance that your valuables should go missing.
Please be aware that local laws governing tourism facilities differ from those in the western world and not all the accommodation which we use on this trip has fire exits, smoke alarms or fire extinguishers.
Depending on where you come from please note that drivers in this part of the world may drive on the opposite side of the road from what you are used to. Look both ways before crossing any road. Traffic can be a little more chaotic than you might be used to at home. Be aware on the roads and even small streets and alleyways. Vehicles find their ways into impossibly small passages leaving no room for both you and the traffic. Traffic can be very noisy and horns are used to signal turning, overtaking and to announce going through intersections.
While life jackets are available on water craft in Asia, there may be occasions where child size life jackets are not readily available. If travelling with children and this safety issue concerns you we will be able to advise alternative methods of transport (where available) for you to travel to the next destination. You can choose to travel independently for this leg of the journey. This would be at your own expense.
Intrepid will provide life-jackets for private boats, but cannot guarantee that all public ferries will have enough life jackets or life rings for all clients.
Travel insurance is compulsory for all our trips. We require that, at a minimum, you are covered for medical expenses including emergency repatriation. We strongly recommend that the policy also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage and personal effects.
When travelling on a group trip, you will not be permitted to join the group until evidence of travel insurance and the insurance company's 24 hour emergency contact number has been seen by your leader.
If you have credit card insurance your tour leader will require details of the participating insurer/underwriter, the level of coverage, policy number and emergency contact telephone number rather than the Bank's name and credit card details. Please contact your bank for these details prior to arriving in-country.
Please go to www.intrepidtravel.com/insurance.php for links to various travel insurance providers.
As you travel on a group trip you will be exposed to all the pleasures and maybe some of the
frustrations of travelling in a group. Your fellow travellers will probably come from all corners of the world and
likely a range of age groups too. We ask you to be understanding of the various needs and preferences of your group
- patience with your fellow travellers is sometimes required for the benefit of everyone's travel experience.
Remember too that you have responsibilities to the group. If you are requested to be at a place at a certain time,
ensure that you don't keep the rest of the group waiting. We have found time and time again that the very best
trips we operate are those where the dynamics within the group work well - this takes just a little effort on
your part.
Please note that due to privacy reasons we are unable to provide you with contact details and any personal information
about your fellow travellers booked on your trip prior to departure.
Our group trips are designed for shared accommodation and do not involve a compulsory single supplement. Single travellers share with people of the same gender for the duration of the trip, in accommodation ranging from twin to multi-share. Please note some of our itineraries have accommodation booked on a mixed gender share basis - where applicable this will be specified in our Trip Notes. On a selection of our Comfort and Original style trips you have the option to pay a single supplement to ensure that you will have your own room (where available). Please refer to the important notes if this trip has a single supplement and any accommodation on the trip that the single supplement will not apply to. Please note that this only applies to accommodation during the tour, pre- and post-trip accommodation will be booked on a single room basis.
We believe strongly in low impact or rather positive impact tourism. Broadly speaking this means that we try to minimise the negative aspects of tourism on the local cultures and environments that we visit and highlight the positive aspects. Please refer to our website at www.intrepidtravel.com/responsibletravel for further details and suggestions on how you can be a responsible traveller.
Illegal drugs will not be tolerated on our trips. Possessing or using drugs not only contravenes the laws of the land but also puts the rest of the group at risk. Smoking marijuana and opium is a part of local culture in some parts of the world but is not acceptable for Intrepid travellers. Intrepid's philosophy of travel is one of respect towards everyone we encounter, and in particular the local people who make our destinations such special places. The exploitation of prostitutes is completely contrary to this philosophy. Our group leader has the right to expel any member of the group if drugs are found in their possession or if they use prostitutes.
Since Intrepid Travel commenced operating in 1989 we have been committed to giving something back to the communities we visit. One way has been through our support for local humanitarian, development and conservation projects. Many of our travellers want to contribute something too. To make things easier we established The Intrepid Foundation. All donations to The Intrepid Foundation will be matched by Intrepid Travel dollar for dollar, up to AU$5,000 per donor and a total of AU$300,000 for all donors in each financial year. And every cent gets there as Intrepid Travel pays for all the administration costs. Donating is simple and secure. Please ask your group leader for information on the projects we support in the region, through The Intrepid Foundation; or go to our website: www.theintrepidfoundation.org
In Cambodia the Intrepid foundation sponsors the following projects:
The Starfish Foundation, based in Sihanoukville, the object of the Starfish Foundation is to provide direct person to person assistance to Cambodians who are stranded outside the bounds of assistance of the government or large NGOs.
The Cyclo Centre which seeks to provide a place and organisation in Phnom Penh where cyclo drivers may receive basic medical care and livelihood support and are encouraged to participate in educational, vocational and social activities that will improve both their well-being and general socio-economic condition.
The Angkor Centre for Conservation of Biodiversity (ACCB), which is situated near the temples, is the first Nature Conservation Centre in Cambodia. Its aim is to contribute to the preservation of wildlife and biodiversity in the Angkor region. A breeding facility for highly endangered animal species and a centre for education and information of the local population, as well as tourists from all over the world, are the heart of the project.
In Thailand we sponsor Friends of the Asian Elephant- a registered NGO in Thailand that aims to protect and conserve the welfare of elephants, both domesticated and wild. We also sponsor Baan Unrak (which means House of Happiness) an orphanage and community relief centre for children and destitute women.
The Nguyen Nga Centre is a locally managed and registered Vietnamese NGO based creating employment and training for disadvantaged and disabled peoples. Due to Nguyen Nga being a small local organization it always has issues in covering its basic monthly expenses like rent and electricity and has little to no international funding. Intrepid Indochina Vietnam has an agreement where the N.N centre makes all the embroidered Hessian bags for Vietnam clients totaling 10000 per annum. The profit on the sale of these bags to Intrepid covers 12 months worth of centre's rental expenses.
The N.N centre also receives a visit from Intrepid groups on our VST trip which enables then to sell arts and crafts they produce to our clients as well as have positive interaction with foreigners.
After your travels, we want to hear from you! This is so important to us that we'll give you 5% off the price of your next trip if your feedback is completed on-line within 4 weeks of finishing your trip. Go to: www.intrepidtravel.com/feedback
Thanks!
Do you want to see your travel photos published? To celebrate all that is travel photography, Intrepid hold an annual Intrepid Photography Competition.
There are five categories - real life experiences, travelling families, local friends, landscapes, icons - each with a fabulous prizes.For more information,
entry form and competition conditions, please visit www.intrepidtravel.com/photocomp. Send entries to
The Editor,
Intrepid Travel,
PO Box 2781,
Fitzroy DC 3065,
Victoria, Australia.
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