AN AGENT’S QUICK REFERENCE GUIDE TO ALL VIETNAM AIRLINES FLIGHTS TO VIETNAM FROM ALL

GATEWAY CITIES IN ASIA, AUSTRALIA, AND EUROPE, AND OTHER TRAVEL SERVICES PROVIDED BY

AGENT’S QUICK REFERENCE GUIDE 2019

SEE NEW SERVICE IN 2019 FROM SEOUL TO NHA TRANG (CXR)

INTRODUCTION TO THIS QUICK REFERENCE GUIDE

This guide is designed to help you find flights that enable your clients travelling to Vietnam

and other cities in Indochina to experience the unparalleled flight experience offered by

VIETNAM AIRLINES along the way.

In addition to convenient service to Vietnam’s hub cities of Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh, and

Danang from the cities listed here, your clients can also connect easily in our hubs to

other major cities in South East Asia ,Australia and Europe. And the best part – they’ll be

flying on one of Asia’s 4-star airlines, enjoying traditional Vietnamese hospitality,

international cuisines, comfortable new Boeing and Airbus jets that offer either Business

Class, Premium Economy (on some flights) and Economy seats with in-flight

entertainment on most flights, on-board Duty-Free shopping, and earning Lotus miles or

other points that can be shared with other carriers who are members of the Skyteam

system.

In addition to finding VIETNAM AIRLINES flights at a glance, this guide will also help you

utilize the ticketing services of MINH TRAVEL, GSA for Vietnam Airlines in Canada, and

INDOCHINA TRAVEL SERVICES,(ITS) for a complete range of destination travel services,

such booking premium hotels, ground transfers, and even tour packages, for both leisure

and business travel, including Group Travel services, and Meeting Planning services for all

destinations in Vietnam, Laos and Cambodia and Myanmar.

ITS is a destination management company (not a retail travel service), and will provide

you with competitive wholesale pricing to make your Vietnam and Indochina bookings

more profitable for you. ITS can customize any itinerary to your clients’ needs.

USE THIS QUICK REFERENCE GUIDE FOR QUICK ANSWERS – ANSWERS ON WHICH CITIES YOU

CAN CONNECT TO A VIETNAM AIRLINES FLIGHT TO OR FROM VIETNAM – ANSWERS ON

BAGGAGE INFORMATION AND ALLOWANCES, ANSWERS ON CLASSES OF SERVICE

AVAILABLE, AND ANSWERS ABOUT INDOCHINA IN GENERAL REGARDING TRAVEL ISSUES,

CLIMATE AND CURRENCIES.

FLIGHTS TO VIETNAM ON VIETNAM

AIRLINES

CITIES SERVED LISTED IN ALPHABETICAL ORDER

FROM BANGKOK TO VIETNAM

FLT# DAYS OPERATED FROM TO AIRCRAFT

VN610 DAILY BKK 12:20PM HAN 2:10PM A321

VN614 DAILY BKK 3:55PM HAN 5:45PM A321

VN612 DAILY BKK 6:35PM HAN 8:25PM A321

VN600 DAILY BKK 11:20AM SGN 12:55PM A321

VN604

VN4251

DAILY

DAILY

BKK 2:20PM

BKK 1:10PM

SGN 3:55PM

SGN 2:40PM

A321

A320

VN602 DAILY BKK 7:35PM SGN 9:10PM A321

VN3971 DAILY BKK 11:00AM DAD 12:45PM A320

FROM BEIJING TO VIETNAM

FLT# DAYS OPERATED FROM TO AIRCRAFT

VN513 2-3-5-6-7 PEK 3:30PM HAN 6:30PM B789

FROM BUSAN TO VIETNAM

FLT# DAYS OPERATED FROM TO AIRCRAFT

VN427 DAILY PUS 10:30AM HAN 1:20PM A330

VN423 DAILY PUS 10:00AM SGN 1:20PM A330

FROM CHENGDU TO VIETNAM

FLT# DAYS OPERATED FROM TO AIRCRAFT

VN553 3-5-7 CTU 5:15PM HAN 6:40PM A321

FROM FRANKFURT TO VIETNAM

FLT# DAYS OPERATED FROM TO AIRCRAFT

VN36 1-2-4-5-6-7 FRA 1:55PM HAN 6:45AM +1 B789

VN30 1-4-5-6-7 FRA 1:55PM SGN 7:35AM +1 B789

FROM FUKUOKA TO VIETNAM

FLT# DAYS OPERATED FROM TO AIRCRAFT

VN357 DAILY FUK 10:30AM HAN 1:30PM A321

VN351 3-4-7 FUK 08:50AM SGN 12:20PM A321

FROM GUANGZHOU TO VIETNAM

FLT# DAYS OPERATED FROM TO AIRCRAFT

VN507 DAILY CAN 4:25PM HAN 5:35PM A321

VN503 DAILY CAN 3:20PM SGN 5:25PM A321

VN549 1-3-5 CAN 9:40PM DAD 10:55PM A321

FROM HONG KONG TO VIETNAM

FLT# DAYS OPERATED FROM TO AIRCRAFT

VN593 DAILY HKG 2:30PM HAN 3:45PM A321

VN595 DAILY HKG 3:20PM SGN 5:00PM A321

FROM JAKARTA TO VIETNAM

FLT# DAYS OPERATED FROM TO AIRCRAFT

VN630 DAILY CGK 2:40PM SGN 6:00PM A321

FROM KAOSHIUNG TO VIETNAM

FLT# DAYS OPERATED FROM TO AIRCRAFT

VN587 DAILY KHH 8:40AM HAN 10:25AM A321

VN581 DAILY KHH 7:30AM SGN 9:35AM A321

FROM KUALA LUMPUR TO VIETNAM

FLT# DAYS OPERATED FROM TO AIRCRAFT

VN680 DAILY KUL 7:30PM HAN 9:40PM A321

VN674 DAILY KUL 8:50PM SGN 9:50PM A321

FROM LONDON HEATHROW TO VIETNAM

FLT# DAYS OPERATED FROM TO AIRCRAFT

VN54 2-4-5-7 LHR 11:00AM HAN 5:20AM +1 B789

VN50 1-3-6 LHR 11:00AM SGN 6:15AM +1 B789

FROM MELBOURNE TO VIETNAM

FLT# DAYS OPERATED FROM TO AIRCRAFT

VN780 DAILY MEL 11:25AM SGN 3:45PM A350

FROM MOSCOW TO VIETNAM

FLT# DAYS OPERATED FROM TO AIRCRAFT

VN64 2-4-6 DME 7:00PM HAN 7:55AM +1 B789

FROM NAGOYA TO VIETNAM

FLT#

VN347

DAYS OPERATED

DAILY

FROM

NGO 10:15AM

TO

HAN 1:55PM

AIRCRAFT

A350

VN341 DAILY NGO 10:00AM SGN 2:10PM A321

FROM OSAKA TO VIETNAM FLT# DAYS OPERATED FROM TO AIRCRAFT

VN331 DAILY KIX 10:30AM HAN 1:50PM B789

VN321 DAILY KIX 10:30AM SGN 2:30PM B789

FROM PARIS CHARLES DE GUALLE TO VIETNAM

FLT#

VN18

DAYS OPERATED

DAILY

FROM

CDG 1:10PM

TO

HAN 6:30AM +1

AIRCRAFT

A350

VN10 3-5-7 CDG 1:35PM SGN 7:35AM +1 A350

FROM SEOUL TO VIETNAM

FLT# DAYS OPERATED FROM TO AIRCRAFT

VN417 DAILY ICN 10:35AM HAN 1:20PM A350

VN415 DAILY ICN 6:05PM HAN 9:00PM B789

VN409 DAILY ICN 10:15AM SGN 1:40PM A350

VN431 DAILY ICN 10:45AM DAD 1:40PM A321

VN441 DAILY ICN 06:15 AM CXR 09:25AM A321

FROM SHANGHAI TO VIETNAM

FLT# DAYS OPERATED FROM TO AIRCRAFT

VN531 DAILY PVG 3:25PM HAN 6:15PM A330

VN522 DAILY PVG 9:15AM SGN 2:15PM A350

FROM SINGAPORE TO VIETNAM

FLT# DAYS OPERATED FROM TO AIRCRAFT

VN662 DAILY SIN 1:25PM HAN 3:40PM A321

VN660 DAILY SIN 4:10PM HAN 6:25PM A321

VN650

VN652

DAILY

1-2-4-5

SIN 1:15PM

SIN 12:15AM

SGN 2:20PM

SGN 1:25AM

A321

A321

VN654 DAILY SIN 6:25PM SGN 7:35PM A321

VN658 DAILY SIN 8:25PM SGN 9:35PM A321

FROM SYDNEY

FLT# DAYS OPERATED FROM TO AIRCRAFT

VN786

VN772

1-3-6

DAILY

SYD 3:15PM

SYD 11:50AM

HAN 8:40PM

SGN 4:15PM

B789

B789

FROM TAIPEI TO VIETNAM

FLT#

VN579

DAYS OPERATED

DAILY

FROM

TPE 7:35AM

TO

HAN 9:50AM

AIRCRAFT

A321

VN577 2-3-5-6 TPE 1:20PM HAN 3:35PM A321

VN571

VN573

DAILY

1-3-5-6

TPE 7:45AM

TPE 10:20PM

SGN 10:25AM

SGN 1:00AM+1

A321

A321

FROM TOKYO-HANEDA TO VIETNAM

FLT# DAYS OPERATED FROM TO AIRCRAFT

VN385 DAILY HND 4:35PM HAN 9:05PM A321

FROM TOKYO-NARITA TO VIETNAM

FLT# DAYS OPERATED FROM TO AIRCRAFT

VN301 DAILY NRT 9:30AM SGN 2:20PM A350

VN319 DAILY NRT 10:00AM DAD 2:25PM A321

VN311 DAILY NRT 10:00AM HAN 2:25PM A350

VN303 DAILY NRT 2:55PM SGN 7:45PM A350

BAGGAGE STANDARD ON VIETNAM AIRLINES INTERNATIONAL FLIGHTS

F

-

INTERNATIONAL FLIGHTS BAGGAGE ALLOWANCE (For Adults & Children from 2 to un der 12 years old)

ITINERARY CLASS O SERVICE

.: .. MAXIM UM NUMB-ER

OF P.I ECES/ KG

2 piece'>

M AXl tv'IUM

WEIGHT PER PIECE

M AXIMUM DIMENSION

PER PIECE

From/ To Amerka Economy aass 2 piece-. 23 kg 1 58cm (6r }/p iece and

total dimension of 2

pie ces. not e.x.ceed[ng 2.73crn (107ln)

iii iJi': •• 30kg 32kg 203crn

Economy Oass 20kg

Between South Korea and

V1etnam

Bu:sln ess Oas'S 40kg

Economy Oa'.'>'5 20kg

Business a ass 60kg

From/

within Asia

. ,

in eraries

Econ omy O a$S 40kg

: .... 40kg

Premium Econo my 40kg

Economy aass 30kg

Even if you are over your baggage allowan ce upon arrival at tlhe airport , you are st ill able to purd 1a se excess

baggage at check-in cou11te r _

I f y o ur it inerary in clu des fli ghts ope rat ed by carri ers ot her tha11 Vietnam Airli11es. di ff erent baggage ru les may apply_

Pfease find full details of your baggage allowa11c es fo r each f light in your it i11e r ary in your t ick.et o r 0 11 tlhe operat ing

carrier's website befo re tr avelling_

New Zealand Oth er it

Africa , Aust ralia

To Euro pe, Middle Ea st

Aircraft Con figuration

28C/ 35Y-Delux/ 211 Y Bo@i n g 787

C-BusmH s CL.ASS; Y-D.ewx - P REMIUM CLASS; Y- EcoNot-tv

BOEING 787 • 274 SEATS

AIRBUS A350 - 305 SEATS

BOEING 777 - 309 SEATS

SEAT MAP

111111

1'

31 1 28C 283Y

Bo@i ng 777 309 27C/ 54Y-Delux/ 228Y

Airbus 350 305 29C/ 45Y- Delux/ 231 Y

280 24C/256Y

Airbus 330 266 24C/242Y

269 18C/251Y

178 16C/162Y

Airbus 32 1 184 16C/168Y

203 8C/195Y

" ■■■■■

•

AIIRBUS A330 - 269 SEATS

AIIRBUS A321 - 184 SEATS

AIIRBUS A321 - 203 SEATS

□ Busines Cl.a

Economy Cla

■ Premium Cl.a

s.

I ' ' tit

Galy

Lavatory

••

[ID

Exit doo r

Ba$;inert:

VIETNAM AIRLINES WIDEBODY AIRCRAFT SEATING 3 CLASSES

BUSINESS CLASS Individual Lie-Flat Bed Seating, with Deluxe Amenities and Fine Cuisine

PREMIUM ECONOMY 2 – 3 – 2 Across seating in Separate cabin, more leg room, wider seats

ECONOMY CLASS STANDARD SEATING 3-3-3

(ONE SEAT LESS ACROSS THAN MOST OTHER CARRIERS MAKES FOR A MORE COMFORTABLE RIDE IN ECONOMY CLASS )

MINH TRAVEL CA SERVICES Since 2006, Minh Travel Canada has served as the only GSA for VIETNAM AIRLINES in

Canada. Every airline GSA (General Sales Agent) play a very vital role in the airline-

Travel Agent relationship in the travel industry. The GSA’s responsibility is to provide

efficient and skilled staff to conduct marketing and sales activities on behalf of an

airline in certain markets where they may not actually fly to directly, such as in our case,

Canada.

MINH TRAVEL, CANADA is your partner for the complete range of Vietnam Airlines

products and services from A to Z. We are proud to act as General Sales Agents (GSA)

for VIETNAM AIRLINES, and, it is the only airline we represent on a strictly B-2-B basis.

Understanding of the needs of the Canada market for Vietnam-bound sales is our sole

mission and responsibility ; to evolve market strategies to promote sales on Vietnam

Airlines and its codeshare partners and to achieve targets set by the airlines. As the GSA

for Vietnam Airlines, we promote sales through marketing and commercial activities

either evolved by us or under the guidance of VIETNAM AIRLINES .

We are also the sole representative for DMC services provided by our sister company in

Vietnam, INDOCHINA TRAVEL SERVICES, also linked here on our website. As ITS, we

also provide complete Visa services for Landing Visa arrangements for your passengers

in Vietnam.

Remember, if you have product needs for individual passengers, groups, or even MICE

arrangements in Indochina, we are your one-stop shop for answers. MINH TRAVEL is not

a Retail travel company.

Please call or notify us anytime with any questions you may have regarding fares,

ticketing services, groups and visa.

INDOCHINA TRAVEL SERVICES At ITS, taking personal care of each of your clients is what we do best, and have a

lovingly-earned reputation for going above and beyond your clients’ expectations,

every day. That is because we know the importance of being flexible, and providing

quick action whenever needed for adjustments along the way.

TOUR PACKAGES

• Classic Highlight

• Trekking & Adventure

• Photography & Culinary

• Cruise Tour

• Luxury & Event

• Family

• Golf

• Promotion

OTHER SERVICES

• Flight + Hotel Packages

• ITS Ticketing Services

• ITS Golf

• ITS XML Services

•

ITS Mice

• Sightseeing

• Transfer

• Visa

TOUR DESTINATIONS

• Vietnam

• Laos

• Cambodia

• Myanmar

SITEMAP

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• Blog

• Contact Us

TRAVEL GUIDE TO INDOCHINA HEALTH CONCERNS:

When travelling to Indochina, take comfort in knowing that vaccinations are no longer required

to enter the region. Malaria and Yellow Fever which were commonplace in the mid 20th century

are no longer considered a public health risk in the major cities and venues.

Pharmacies and Clinics are available everywhere, as well as Hospitals and 24-hour emergency

services to foreign guest. Your hotel front desk will arrange any immediate health care and

attention you may require during your trip – Your tour guides can also assist you in getting

immediate attention by medical professionals if the occasion rises.

DRESS: The key is to dress modestly and comfortable, in clothing that you might wear in California

in the summer. Average daily temperatures will be between 68-80 degrees Farenheit.

Northern Vietnam and Luang Prabang may require sweaters in the evening.

THE FOLLOWING PAGES ARE QUICK-GUIDE ANSWERS ON AREAS IN OUR REGIONS

VIETNAM GETTING MONEY & TIPPING

Currency: Dong (VND)

Important: Tell your bank about your travel plans before you leave. Card activity in a foreign

country could be mistaken for fraud and you could find your account frozen.

Credit cards and ATMs

Credit cards are accepted in most hotels and pricier restaurants and shops (expect a 3–4%

surcharge). Everywhere else, cash is still king.

ATMs are easy to find in cities and towns, but often the maximum amount dispensed from local

banks is quite low. ANZ and HSBC will allow you to withdraw higher amounts, saving you from

paying multiple withdrawal fees.

Generally, tipping is not expected in Vietnam, but is very much appreciated. Many Vietnam

workers do not earn much money and always appreciate the extra money to be made in tips.

Money changers

You'll have no trouble finding exchange outlets in tourist areas and cities. Most banks, including

the government-run Vietcombank, can also exchange your Australian dollars for Vietnamese

dong. Avoid changing too much money at the airport as you're unlikely to get a very good

exchange rate.

Note: Don't change money anywhere that doesn't look official (for example, in souvenir or

jewellery shops). Black market money exchange is illegal and you could be ripped off.

Travellers' cheques are becoming a thing of the past and you'll have trouble finding many places

to cash them outside of the big cities and tourist centres. Note: Carry at least two credit/debit

cards and more than one currency (US, and the currency of your destination). Split your money

and cards between separate bags. That way if you lose one, you have a back-up.

THE PRICE FOR GOODS AND SERVICES IS…WHATEVER YOU’LL PAY

This is something that is difficult for us North Americans to understand. We are used to a fixed price

for everything and we generally believe what we hear and read.

Remember, it is normal in Vietnam for locals to overcharge or inflate prices when they feel they

can get more money for something. It’s been happening here in Vietnam since long before tourists

ever arrived. It is not necessarily that they are “ripping you off”. It’s just the fluid way that small

transactions happen in Vietnam. Sellers will make false claims, pretend you’ve agreed to a higher

price, or give you back less change than you’re owed. Happens every day. Be careful, educate

yourself and know .

DON’T CONFUSE ’15’ AND ’50’

One of those “petty” things to watch out for. Street vendors such as coconut sellers or shoe shiners

will trick you and claim that you agreed to a higher “50” thousand dong and not the “15”

thousand you were 100% sure was understood. The price of a coconut or a shoe shine is around

15,000 dong, so be sure that “15” is understood before the coconut is cracked open or your shoes

are shined. Don’t fall for the “50”. Once their end of the deal is met, you can’t win the argument.

It’s ’50’.

VIETNAMESE PEOPLE ARE AMAZINGLY HOSPITABLE AND SWEET

You should experience nothing but extreme hospitality and kindness outside of the tourist areas.

Happy school children waving “hello”, invitations to karaoke and beer in the evening, free snacks

on the “hard seat” trains…the list goes on. Just like everywhere else, people are great in Vietnam.

Don’t let the few touts and scammers sour your opinion.

BE SURE THE SOUP IS BOILING

Stomach illness is common among first-time visitors. Soup that has been sitting too long is often the

culprit. Try to eat only at restaurants that are busy, as their ingredients turn over more and they are

likely to keep the gas on all day. Try to look under the lid to make sure the soup is at a low boil.

HANOI FOR TRADITION AND ‘ATTRACTIONS’; HO CHI MINH CITY FOR STYLE AND MODERN CULTURE

The eternal Hanoi vs. Ho Chi Minh City debate is pointless. These two great cities are both worth

visiting, but for different reasons.

For vibrancy, culture and nightlife, Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City) is wonderful. Exciting neon lights,

rooftop bars, sophisticated cafes, a burgeoning art and music scene, Saigon is the city most

foreigners find familiar, and for good reason. The ‘attractions’ here are not the draw; it’s the culture

and people.

Hanoi is very much a “capital” city. The body of Ho Chi Minh is preserved here. The ancient

pagodas still point out from the willowy lakesides, the French quarter is better preserved and more

quaint. It is the quintessential capital city- straight, low-key and traditional. It is steeped in culture

and the average age of workers is 35 years old.

PAY CLOSE ATTENTION TO YOUR DONG

Vietnam uses the “dong “as its currency. Making jokes about your ‘dong’ is a prerequisite for travel

here. However, handing over more of your dong is a serious problem for newbies in Vietnam. Be

careful. 21,000 dong = 1 usd

Remember:

10,000 dong looks a lot like 100,000 dong.

50,000 dong looks a lot like 500,000 dong.

Look your bills over twice before handing them off. It’s a small, easy mistake that could cost you

a day’s budget.

YOU CAN BE STYLISH, BUT DRESS CONSERVATIVELY

Young and colorful, Vietnam is an increasingly stylish place. Don’t think that you have to dress like

a damn dirty hippie to avoid appearing posh. Bring your nice clothes. However, do as the locals

do and be moderate. Yes, it’s hot. But, notice that locals don’t wear bikinis on the street, or walk

around with no shirt showing off their tattoos?

YOU CAN ALWAYS CASH TRAVELER’S CHECKS AT SACOMBANK FOR A 2% FEE

I live by American Express Travelers Checks. I hate paying inflated ATM fees. Only some banks in

Vietnam will cash these, however. Consistently, Sacombank is the place to go to. It may take a

while, but you’ll get them cashed for a 2% commission fee. Once a week, I generally cash $200-

300 at a time because it takes a while. Cash is generally safe in your front pocket if you don’t flaunt

it.

CAMBODIA

SIEM REAP - VISA ON ARRIVAL Visa can be obtained at the following point of entry:

- Siem Reap International Airport, Siem reap

Requirements

1. One passport size photo is required

2. Completed visa form (visa form is available at the airport & borders)

3. Passport with at least 4 months validity

30-day tourist visa (Type ‘T’): US$20

Tourist visas can be extended for one month, but only one time.

30-day business visa (Type ‘E’): US$25

Business visas can be renewed indefinitely, one month.

VISITING – ANGKOR WAT

Angkor Wat is an ancient city in Cambodia that was the center of the Khmer empire that once

ruled most of Southeast Asia. This civilization went extinct, but not before building amazing temples

and buildings that were reclaimed by the jungle for hundreds of years. Though this place is packed

with tourists, it’s still breathtaking to see. The most popular temples are Angkor Wat, Bayon, Ta

Prohm, and Angkor Thom. I would recommend getting a multi-day pass so you can visit some of

the outer temples where there are less crowds. The closest major city and launching pad for tours

here is Siem Reap. This travel guide to Angkor Wat has information about the temples and

transportation.

Average cost of food – There are tons of food options within the temple complex. You will be

able to eat a nice meal in a restaurant for less than 41,300 KHR and easily find restaurant meals

in the 20,000-29,000 KHR price range as well. Around the temples, you will find little stands with

cheap meals for about 8,200-12,400 KHR.

Transportation costs – Tuks tuks and hired drivers can be found all over the place here. You can

hire a car and driver, who will act as a tour guide, for 103,000 KHR per day.

Money Saving Tips

Angkor Wat permit – Everyone needs a permit to enter the Angkor temples unless you are

Cambodian or related to a Cambodian. A 1 day is $20 USD, 3 day is $40 USD, and 7 day is $60

USD. If you are on a private tour, these costs have been included in your tour price.

Rent a Tuk Tuk – It is best to rent a Tuk Tuk to get around and have the know-how of your driver

getting you in and out of your city destination. Pub Street is the most common area for foreigners

to visit and shop. Getting a driver in Siem Reap is easy at the front desk or concierge of your

hotel.

See the sunset– Your Angkor ticket gives you access to the complex at Sunset.

Top Things to See and Do at Angkor Wat Complex

Angkor Wat – This temple was built by Suryavarman and is considered the biggest Asian pyramid.

It is over 200 feet high and divided in several layers. The central part has four towers in the shape

of a lotus flower. This temple is the largest in the whole complex and is where the historic site gets

its name. The central temple complex has 2,600 feet of bas-reliefs, including famous battles and

Buddhist scenes like the Battle of Kurukshetra, the Army of Suryavarman II, Heaven and Hell,

Churning of the Ocean of Milk, Elephant Gate, Vishnu Conquers the Demons, Khrisna and the

demon King, Battle of the Gods and the Demons, and the Battle of Lanka.

The Bayon – Built by Jayavarman VII, the temple stands in the center of Angkor Thom. With its 54

towers and 216 faces of Avalokiteshvara, this temple looks best in the morning just after sunrise or

at the end of the afternoon when the sun shines on the faces. The temple was built on 3 levels:

the first 2 are rectangular, while the 3rd is circular. This was my favorite—I really got a kick out of

exploring all the little halls, rooms, and photographing the many faces.

Ta Prohm – Still covered by the jungle, this place is exactly as they found it. Ta Prohm makes it

easy to imagine how the whole complex looked when it was re-discovered in 19th century. This is

the temple made famous in Tomb Raider. If you come early, you can avoid the crowds who

arrive mid-day. It’s the second best complex behind Bayon.

Elephant Terrace – A 1000 foot terrace of elephants. It was used as a giant viewing stand during

public ceremonies, royal ceremonies, and so on. Many lions decorate this enormous path as

well. Now it’s surrounded by camera-wielding tourists, and I found it to be one of the busiest sites

here. I suggest visiting late or early to avoid the crowds, which get overwhelming.

Banteay Srei – This temple is located about 12 miles north of Angkor. The name means “Citadel

of the Women” and refers to the size and delicacy of the decoration in the complex. Unlike the

major sites at Angkor, this was not a royal temple. There are exquisite decorative carvings in pink

sandstone and the miniature proportions are a major highlight of Banteay Srei.

East Mebon – A huge baray surrounded this temple complex during its prime. Because it was

encircled by water and was like an island, there was no need for enclosures or moats that

became customary for temples in Angkor. East Mebon has five towers- make sure to climb the

central platform to the towers, and check out the intricate stonework.

Preah Khan – Preah Khan is one of the largest sites in the Angkor temple complex. Not only was

this site an important temple, but it also appears to have been a large Buddhist university with

over one thousand teachers at one time. It has remained largely unrestored, as evidenced by

the many trees growing around the ruins and mossy stones left laying everywhere. The site was a

previous palace of Yasovarman II and Tribhuvanadityavarman, and historians believe a famous

battle was fought on this site.

Pre Rup – About 2000 feet south of the East Baray lies Pre Rup, built by Rajendravarman as his

capital after re-establishing Angkor once he took over as king. Pre Rup was at the center of a

city that has long since vanished. You can climb the steep steps up to the three tiers of the

pyramid.

Preah Ko (Sacred Bull) – This was the first temple to be built in the ancient city of Hariharalaya. It

lies about 10 miles southeast of the main temples at Angkor. Today, there are six small brick

towers that sit atop a sandstone base.

Srah Srang – Commonly known as ‘The Royal Baths’, this spot was once a major bathing spot for

every living thing, elephants aside, in the area. Today it is the most popular place for local

children to swim.

Ta Som – This temple has the same style, structure, and founder as Ta Phrom. It is almost like its

little brother. The major feature that sets it apart is a huge tree that grows atop the eastern

Gopura. It is slowly destroying the building, but it makes for amazing photo opportunities. It’s the

temple normally featured in movies and photos.

Baksei Chamkrong – On the road between Angkor Wat and Angkor Thom, you can find a single

tower that was built by Harshavarman I (910-922). It’s one of the few ruins accredited to him, and

he had it built to honor his father who was responsible for the construction of Phnom Bakheng.

Terrace of the Leper King – This seven-layer terrace was built in the 13th century and was named

after the god of the underworld, whose naked statue perches on top. Keep an eye out for the

secret passageway that runs from the southwest to northwest side of the structure.

Tipping:

Gratuity depends on your appreciation. However, if you are happy with the services provided

by your local guides, drivers, a tip is appropriate. While it may not be customary to you, tipping

inspires great service, and is an entrenched feature of the tourism industry. As a general

assumption by your local guides, driver and tour leader. If your tour is private, please allow $3USD

to $5USD per day per traveler for each of your local guide and driver.

Climate

Cambodia has a tropical climate that is warm and humid. In the monsoon season, abundant

rain allows for the cultivation of a wide variety of crops and this year round tropical climate

makes Cambodia ideal for the tourism industry. Visitors do need not fear natural disasters such as

erupting volcanoes or earthquakes, and the country is not directly affected by tropical storms.

Cambodia can be visited throughout the year. However those planning to travel extensively by

road should avoid the last two months of the rainy season when some countryside roads may be

impassable.

The climate can generally be described as tropical. As the country is affected by monsoon, it is

hot and humid with an overage temperature around 27.C (80.F) but in the dry season it is cool

and very much like a European summer.

The Dry season (cool):

From November till February 17-27.C (80-95.F)

Safety & Security:

Tourist areas in Cambodia are safe by world standards, but the usual commonsense safety

precautions should be adhered to. Tourists should stick to set travel arrangements and avoid

unknown areas. It is not safe to walk the streets of Phnom Penh at night where street lighting is

poor.

We recommend you keep jewelry to a minimum, and leave items of value in your hotel’s safety

deposit box. Always keep a photocopy of your passport, airline tickets and credit card numbers,

and a detailed record of your cashed traveler cheques.

Food and Drinks

Cambodian food has many multicultural influences from both neighbouring and European

countries; including France, China, Thailand and Vietnam. The common ingredients used in

Cambodian food are also found in those neighboring Southeast Asian countries’: sticky rice, fish

sauce, palm sugar, chilies, coconut milk and lemon grass to name a few.

The Cambodian main dish normally consists of a serving of rice, a soup, a salad, a main fish or

meat dish, served with some vegetables and dessert based on fresh fruits and sticky rice. As the

country's has incredibly abundant rivers; the Mekong, Bassac and especially the Tonle Sap,

freshwater fish and prawns are very popular local delicacies. Whilst other lesser known

Cambodian treats include locusts, snakes, crabs, crocodiles and spiders

LAOS LUANG PRABANG

The ancient town of Luang Prabang situated in northern Laos, was designated a UNESCO World

Heritage Site in 1995. Considered by many travelers and writers as being the heart of Laotian

culture, the tiny town is encircled by mountains and is 700 metres above sea level at the

confluence of the Nam Khan and Mekong Rivers. Here visitors are subjected to an inflamed

economic bubble that does not apply to the rest of the country.

Being Laos' premier tourist destination and (arguably) Southeast Asia's most beautiful spot,

ironically tourists will pay more for the innate pleasures of eating, drinking and sleeping than they

would in the country's capital city Vientiane. Luang Prabang was the ancient royal capital of the

Lan Xang Kingdom until King Phothisarat moved the administrative seat to Vientiane in 1545.

Regardless, it has continued to overlook Vientiane as the destination of choice with its

amalgamation of crumbling French architecture, glistening temples and extensive natural

beauty. Even the hardest of hearts would have a struggle not to warm to the place. The town's

entire historical section is dedicated to tourism, with everything from former royal palaces to over

33 Wats (temples), on the tourist trail.

This former Royal capital remains the main centre for Buddhist learning in Laos and is the perfect

location for spiritual contemplation. Cascading waterfalls, scaling peaks and the milky-brown

waters of the Mekong River provide ample opportunity to swim, climb and sail your way through

Luang Prabang. It is only as recent as 1989 that Laos opened to tourism and the country that

had previously been cut off from the rest of Southeast Asia developed a small but steady

economy, based on tourism and regional trade. This small and gentle town where most locals

are asleep by 22:00 is now one of the richest and most visited provinces in Laos. It's one of the

few places where you feel that this is the genuine article and one that retains its unique

ambiance.

For reasons that are soon become apparent, Luang Prabang is often described as the 'Jewel in

Laos Crown'. Even though the town is well and truly on the tourist trail, it has nonetheless

managed to preserve its natural splendor and inherent charm, exuding a missed-out-on-

modernization vibe. The majority of the city's sights can be reached on foot, so getting a map

and making your way to the many temples (33 to be exact) is a good way to soak up the

surroundings and observe the way of the Lao people, and the large monk community.

The wonder of the ancient temples is apparent at first glance; the gentle and unassuming

nature of the locals, given the chance, will also leave a lasting impression.

VIENTIANE

Vientiane delivers a relaxing riverside break where one of the best things you can do is grab a

drink and enjoy the sun’s spectacular show as it sets over the Mekong. Despite being the largest

city in Laos and the hub of commerce and administration, Vientiane is still refreshingly laid back.

The city offers a great choice of accommodation, restaurants and pavement cafes some

adding a French air with their style of architecture which contrasts pleasingly with the old

Buddhist temples dotted around. There are plenty of things to do after dark and bars cater to all

tastes from backpacker beer haunts to elegant cocktail lounges. Navigating Vientiane is

relatively simple due to its size and sightseeing can be done either on foot, by bike or by hiring a

tuk-tuk. The countryside is never far away, with rice paddies providing a backdrop to most

streets. Culture buffs should make the Laos National Museum their first stop. When in Laos, do as

the Laos do and the slow the pace right down. A common joke is that acronym PDF (Peoples

Democratic Republic) actually stands for ‘Please Slow Down’. A word of warning to the anally

punctual, the country is decidedly laid back and some visitors may mistake this for a lack of

ambition or impoliteness but regardless, it's best not to expect things to run like clockwork.

MONEY

The official national currency in Laos is the Lao kip (K). Although only kip is legally negotiable in

everyday transactions, in reality three currencies are used for commerce: kip, Thai baht (B) and

US dollars (US$).

Tipping

Tipping is not customary in Laos except in tourist-oriented restaurants, where 10% of the bill is

appreciated, but only if a service charge hasn't already been added.

SHOPPING

Luang Prabang trades in handicrafts, art, textiles and jewelry. Be sure to explore the Night Market

on Sisavangvong Road and shops in the Old Chinese Quarter. The numerous gift shops around

the town are good for picking up couture-style textiles and quaint household objects. For fresh

produce like meat, vegetables and herbs, drop into Phosi Market. Note that the market culture of

Laos, unlike more raucous Thailand, is devoid of the hard sell so don't expect badgering and

bartering to the same degree.

Laos is an excellent destination for anyone interested in picking up elaborate handicrafts. Hill-tribe

silks, arts, crafts, home-furnishings, jewelry and couture quality textiles dominate the market.

Although many of these products are available in Thailand, some of the things listed above are

unique to Laos and its hill-tribes. In buying traditional crafts such as silks and carvings, tourists are

invariably helping to support a still-growing and fragile economy. Lao women wear the traditional

phaa sin - a wraparound skirt. The phaa sin is worn with a silver belt and you will soon notice it is

worn by school and university students and government office workers. A vast choice of phaa sin,

shawls, bags and jewelry can be found in the morning market and around Vientiane. As well as

traditional Lao weavings, you will find hill-tribe embroidery, wall hangings and quilts. The inherent

art form of weaving has been practiced in Laos since the 14th century; subsequently it has

attracted the attention of affluent and educated western-based weavers who have descended

on Laos to re-establish the trade that dwindled so rapidly under the Communist regime - the vast

majority of which operate on a fair trade basis, working to increase sustainable development .

WEATHER

Laos has a tropical climate with two distinct monsoon seasons. The wet southwest monsoon

season runs from May to October while the northeast monsoon in the months of November to

April brings drier weather. Though most of the country has warm temperatures year-round, it can

get down to freezing conditions in the mountainous areas. From the end of January to May the

temperatures rise and it can get very sticky when the rains arrive in May. Daytime temperatures

over 35°C are not unusual during these months. From June to October expect a fair bit of rain,

even flooding in the Mekong River area. This region is also the country's warmest, with

temperatures ranging from 15°C to the mid-30s. The higher altitude areas including Vientiane

have more rainfall than the lowlands. The best time to visit Laos is from November to February

with the coolest, driest days as well as some of the country's most colourful festivals to enjoy.

The mighty Mekong in the west and the Annamite Mountains in the east offer natural borders

with Thailand and Vietnam respectively, while Laos also shares borders with China in the north,

Myanmar in the northwest and Cambodia in the south. With over half of this landlocked

country's 236,800sqkm densely forested, and 70% of it mountainous, it is hardly surprising that a

profusion of rare flora and over 1,200 species of wildlife finds a home beneath its tropical

canopy.

Almost all of the rivers and streams in Laos eventually end up feeding into the Mekong through

one of its 15 tributaries, making a total of 2,400km of waterways and feeding the Mekong with

more than half of its overall water flow. Though averaging rainfalls of between 1360mm, in Luang

Prabang, to 3700mm on the Boloven Plateau during the June to October monsoon season, Laos

regularly suffers from water shortages in the low-lying Mekong Delta plains.