getaboutasia handbook - laos · 3!|page!!! preparing’totravel’...

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Contents

Preparing to Travel ................................................................................................................................ 3 Travel Documents ............................................................................................................................................................. 3 Visas .................................................................................................................................................................................. 3 Vaccinations ...................................................................................................................................................................... 3 Travel Insurance ................................................................................................................................................................ 4 Money ............................................................................................................................................................................... 5 Packing Essentials .............................................................................................................................................................. 5 Toiletries & Medication ..................................................................................................................................................... 6 First Aid Kit ........................................................................................................................................................................ 6 Flights & Luggage allowances ........................................................................................................................................... 7 Departure Taxes ................................................................................................................................................................ 7

Welcome to Laos ................................................................................................................................... 8 Introduction ...................................................................................................................................................................... 8 Country Information ......................................................................................................................................................... 8 Landscape ......................................................................................................................................................................... 8 Climate & Climate Chart .................................................................................................................................................... 9 People ............................................................................................................................................................................... 9 Religion ........................................................................................................................................................................... 10 Cuisine ............................................................................................................................................................................. 10 History ............................................................................................................................................................................. 10 Language ......................................................................................................................................................................... 10

Travelling in Laos ................................................................................................................................. 11 On Arrival (meeting your guide) ...................................................................................................................................... 11 Mobile Phones ................................................................................................................................................................ 11 Internet ........................................................................................................................................................................... 11 Electricity ......................................................................................................................................................................... 11 Health .............................................................................................................................................................................. 11 Eating and Drinking ......................................................................................................................................................... 12 Shopping ......................................................................................................................................................................... 12 Cultural Etiquette ............................................................................................................................................................ 12 Tipping ............................................................................................................................................................................ 13 Public Holidays ................................................................................................................................................................ 13 Sustainable Tourism ........................................................................................................................................................ 14 Safety Tips ....................................................................................................................................................................... 14 Useful phrases ................................................................................................................................................................. 15

Booking Terms & Conditions ............................................................................................................... 16

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Preparing to Travel Most nationalities can obtain a visa on arrival at international airports and borders in Laos. Check with the embassy or consulate for the latest requirements and please refer to the visa section below for additional information.

Travel Documents We recommend that you carry photocopies of your passport plus at least 2 passport-‐sized photos if obtaining a visa on arrival. When flying into or within Laos, you will be given baggage claim tags (they might be attached to the back of your ticket). Please keep these as you may need to show them when leaving the airport.

Visas All nationalities with the exception of some Asian countries, Switzerland and Luxembourg must have a tourist visa to enter Laos. You may apply for a visa through a Laotian embassy or consulate in your country. You are required to submit an application form with 2 passport-‐size photos, your passport and the necessary fee to process the visa.

Alternatively if you do not want to send off your passport or you need your passport for your current travels, you can obtain a visa on arrival at international airports/borders. (Please note that there are several countries in Africa and the Middle East who cannot obtain a Visa on Arrival. Turkish nationals are also unable to obtain a Visa on Arrival.)

The visa fee for most nationalities is approximately US$36 per person for a visa on arrival (though some countries are as high as $45). Allow an extra US$1 for arrivals after 6pm. Payment must be made in US dollars cash, and two passport photos are also required. Please be aware that sometimes there can be long queues at the airport when obtaining a visa on arrival.

Please make sure your passport is valid more than 6 months from the date of departure of each country you are visiting. Also make sure you have enough blank pages -‐ you may need up to 1.5 pages for each country you visit in Southeast Asia.

PLEASE NOTE THAT EACH CLIENT IS SOLELY RESPONSIBLE FOR OBTAINING ALL NECESSARY VISAS BEFORE JOINING A TOUR. GetAboutAsia cannot accept responsibility for anyone who is refused entry to a country because they lack the correct documentation.

Vaccinations No vaccinations are compulsory in Asia, but please consult your doctor or travel clinic for current information. As a guide we recommend the following:

• Diphtheria • Hepatitis A and B

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• Tetanus • Typhoid • Japanese Encephalitis • Yellow Fever if arriving from an infected area

The risk of exists throughout the year in the whole country except in Vientiane -‐ please consult with your GP for more information.

It is every client’s responsibility to have the necessary vaccinations for travel. GetAboutAsia will not be held responsible for travel delays or refused entry into countries due to customers not having the necessary vaccinations.

Other resources:

• Specialist Travel Doctors in Australia for advice and receiving vaccinations: www.traveldoctor.com.au

• UK NHS Travel Vaccine web page: www.nhs.uk/Planners/vaccinations/Pages/Travelvaccines.aspx

• Australian Government Immunisation web page: www.health.gov.au/internet/immunise/publishing.nsf/Content/Handbook-‐travel

• Australian, Victorian State Government health web page: www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/bhcv2/bhcarticles.nsf/pages/Travel_vaccinations

We also recommend:

• A dental check up prior to travelling • That you know your blood group in case of emergency • That if you have any pre-‐existing medical conditions that may affect you on tour, that you

make these known to your guide and to GetAboutAsia at the time of booking

Travel Insurance It is mandatory to have comprehensive travel insurance on our trips. We can recommend travel insurance providers for the region that you are travelling in or you can research your own. Please be diligent when choosing a provider and ensure that their policy provides adequate cover for personal accident, medical expenses including hospital fees and medical evacuation, cancellation, curtailment, repatriation, lost luggage as well as adequate cover for any activities or sports you may take part in whilst travelling.

We recommend that you have a photocopy of your insurance document which you keep separately from the original.

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Money The currency in Laos is the Kip (LAK). The exchange rate is around 8,250 Kip to the US Dollar (check currency conversion websites such as www.xe.com/currencyconverter or www.oanda.com/currency/converter for the latest exchange rates). Please note that the Lao kip is not convertible to any currency outside of Laos.

The US Dollar and Thai Baht are also widely accepted in Laos, although in smaller towns and villages the kip is usually preferred. Please ensure that all of your US Dollar notes are new and clean. Small denominations ($1 and $5) are useful for making local purchases.

Cashing traveller’s cheques is difficult outside Vientiane and Luang Prabang. ATMs are now available in the main towns and are widespread in Vientiane, but they will only issue the local currency, the Kip. Many banks (open Monday to Friday) issue cash advances for Visa and MasterCard, usually for a small commission. A few hotels, restaurants and gift shops in Vientiane and Luang Prabang accept Visa and MasterCard, and to a lesser extent Amex. Throughout the rest of the country credit cards are useless however.

Spending money varies greatly from one person to another depending on the styles of restaurants you choose to eat at, drinks and the amount of souvenirs you may be tempted to buy.

Packing Essentials What you take will depend on when and where you are travelling.

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. A jacket may be needed in 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. From November to January, particularly in the northern mountainous region, the temperature can dip below zero so you will need to bring a sweater or a light jacket. Since the cities and towns in Laos are ideal for walking, be sure to bring comfortable and supportive walking shoes.

The following should act as a useful checklist of essential items:

• Passport -‐ Ensure that it is valid, in good condition with empty pages available. • Photocopy of Passport • Travel Insurance -‐ Ensure that it will be valid for the whole journey • Passport Photos -‐ Often needed for identification passes and certain overseas visas • Air tickets and Itinerary • Foreign Currency (US$) and/or debit/credit cards, travellers cheques • Debit/credit card cancellation phone numbers

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• Emergency contact numbers • Money belt -‐ Ensure that it is discrete and comfortable to wear • Small daypack (for day or overnight trips) • First Aid kit -‐ Basic travel kit • Personal Medication -‐ with international doctors’ note to ensure easy passage of medication

across international borders • Sun block -‐ High UVA protection ideally • Sunglasses & sunhat • Mosquito spray & insect repellent • Comfortable walking shoes (wear these in well before your trip) • Sandals -‐ Useful when visiting temples and pagodas • Long sleeve top and trousers -‐ Useful to protect against mosquitoes at dawn and dusk and

the sun through the day • Light weight clothing (summer months and the south) • Warm clothing (northern Laos in winter) • Camera with spare battery and memory cards • Security code padlock • Adaptor -‐ 220v, 50Hz, with 2-‐prong / flat pins • Small torch

Toiletries & Medication 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. Any prescription medication should be 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.

First Aid Kit We advise that all passengers bring along their own personal first aid kit. Below is a list of some recommended items:

• Band Aids/Bandages • Laxatives • Anti-‐diarrhoea remedy • Panadol/Aspirin, • Rehydration remedy • Antiseptic cream/powder • Sterile dressing • Any relevant course of medication such as contraceptive pills

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A complete Travellers Medical Pack can be purchased for approximately US$25 at most travel clinics, chemists and outdoor travel shops.

Flights & Luggage allowances Each airline has its own luggage allowance policy with most allowing 20kg checked baggage and 5kg carry-‐on. Excess baggage is charged at a specific rate depending on the route and airline. You are advised to check with your airline prior to travel. Please note that Laotian airlines tend to be very strict about weighing luggage and are quick to charge if your bag is overweight. All airlines stipulate that liquids, gels and/or aerosols in hand luggage must be in completely closed containers of 100ml or less (even if the container is partially filled).

Departure Taxes Airport Departure taxes for domestic and international flights are generally included in the ticket price.

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Welcome to Laos

Introduction Laos, a peaceful land-‐locked nation, is one of Southeast Asia’s hidden gems. Once known as the Kingdom of Lan Xang or One Million Elephants, Laos was a prosperous kingdom but today is one of the poorest countries in Southeast Asia.

The stunning natural beauty of forested mountains and valleys combined with a fascinating Buddhist culture, make Laos the perfect destination for travellers seeking an authentic, cultural and “off the beaten track” experience. With its wild jungles, beautiful countryside and chilled out towns, Laos is often compared with Thailand thirty years ago. Much of Laos is mountainous with the majority of people living in lowlands along the mighty Mekong River, which is the lifeblood of Laos and forms the border with Thailand and Myanmar (Burma). One of the most ethnically diverse countries in Southeast Asia, Laos is home to forty seven ethnic groups, most of whom have kept their own customs, dialects and traditional dress.

Most of Laos today remains relatively isolated and undeveloped. Its capital, Vientiane, is more like a large village than a crowded Asian hub and life throughout the country is slow-‐paced. The UNESCO World Heritage town of Luang Prabang is the leading attraction with its glittering ancient temples, saffron robed monks, authentic textile villages and sleepy riverside atmosphere. The mountainous north and southern provinces offer excellent opportunities for outdoor activities such as trekking, mountain biking, kayaking and canoeing. The mysterious Plain of Jars promises fascination for all visitors.

Laos is best enjoyed when visitors adapt to Lao-‐time. Slow down and take the time to soak in the atmosphere of this special part of the world.

Country Information • Population: Laos has a population of between around 7 million people with the capital

Vientiane having a population of 600,000. • Time Zones: Laos operates on Greenwich meantime +7 hours. Laos does not observe

daylight saving hours. • Country Code: Country code for Laos is + 856.

Landscape Lying in the northern part of Indo-‐China, Laos is bordered by five countries: China to the north, Vietnam to the east, Cambodia to the south with Thailand and Myanmar (Burma) to the west. The Mekong River, which forms a large part of the border with Thailand, has always been at the heart of Lao civilization and culture. Apart from the Mekong River plains, more than 70% of the country is comprised of highlands, mountains and plateaus. In the north, peaks rise to over 2,800 metres.

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Climate & Climate Chart Laos has two seasons, a rainy season and a dry season. The rainy season runs from May through to October and the dry season from November to April. March and April are hot and humid with temperatures averaging around 34oC (86oF). For the most part Laos is hot, although there is a good deal of fluctuation between summer and winter temperatures at higher elevations. 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 regions, however, temperatures can plummet to near freezing in December and January. During the rainy season southern Laos receives the most amount of rain.

Please be aware that in Northern Laos it can sometimes be smoky during February and March when local people burn the fields and forests to prepare for the annual crops. This may affect visibility and result in minor respiratory irritation.

People The population of Laos is approximately 7 million with 85% living in rural areas. Laos is one of Southeast Asia's most ethnically diverse countries with 47 ethnic groups, most of whom have kept their own customs, dialects and traditional dress. The government has classified the population into three broad groups -‐ the Lao Lum (lowlanders), comprise mainly of ethnic Lao and Tay-‐Tai speaking people, make up 70% of the population and predominantly live along the Mekong River; the Lao Theung (uplanders), composed of Mon-‐Khmer people, form 20% of the population; and the Lao Song (highlanders), comprise of a variety of hill tribe groups including the Hmong, Yao, Haw, Akha, and constitute 10% of the population, living in the mountainous areas.

Average Temp

Rain (month)

Average Temp

Rain (month)

Average Temp

Rain (month)

Jan 28°C 20mm 28°C 10mm 32°C 5mm Feb 30°C 25mm 30°C 20mm 33°C 20mm Mar 33°C 35mm 32°C 45mm 34°C 35mm Apr 34°C 110mm 33°C 90mm 36°C 80mm May 33°C 150mm 32°C 260mm 33°C 200mm Jun 32°C 260mm 31°C 275mm 32°C 280mm Jul 31°C 230mm 30°C 270mm 31°C 335mm Aug 31°C 290mm 31°C 325mm 31°C 320mm Sep 31°C 175mm 30°C 300mm 31°C 325mm Oct 29°C 125mm 30°C 90mm 31°C 180mm Nov 28°C 40mm 29°C 15mm 30°C 55mm Dec 26°C 15mm 28°C 5mm 28°C 20mm

Luang Prabang Vientiane Pakse (South)

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Religion Buddhism is an inherent component of daily life in Laos and an important influence on Lao society and culture. Today more than 65% of the Lao population (predominantly lowland Lao and some other Tai-‐speaking groups) follow Theravada Buddhism. Predating Buddhism, the worship of animist spirits (phi) in Laos is still common representing some of the region's most ancient religious practices. Animist shrines may be found in many parts the country.

Cuisine Lao cuisine has many similarities to Thai with lots of aromatic herbs and spices such as lemon grass, chillies, ginger and tamarind used to flavour dishes. The staple food of Lao is sticky rice usually served with fermented fish and fish sauce. Chicken and pork dishes are also popular but beef is expensive in comparison. A French influence with Asian-‐fusion touch is also apparent in Vientiane and Luang Prabang.

History In the 14th century a Lao warlord, Fa Ngum, founded the Kingdom of Lane Xang which literally means ‘Land of a Million Elephants’ and established the capital at what is now Luang Prabang. In the 18th century, Lane Xang entered a period of decline caused by dynastic struggle and conflicts with Myanmar (Burma), Siam (now Thailand), Vietnam and the Khmer kingdom. By the 19th century the Siamese established power over much of what is now Laos and was divided into three principalities -‐ Luang Prabang, Vientiane and Champassak. Late in the century the French succeeded the Siamese and integrated all of Laos into the French empire under direct rule, except for Luang Prabang which was ruled as a protectorate. The Franco-‐Siamese treaty of 1907 defined the present Lao boundary with Thailand.

Lao achieved independence from French rule in 1954. Peace was short-‐lived, however, as the Americans began bombing eastern Laos in 1964 in a bid to target a section of the Ho Chi Minh Trail that passed through Lao territory. Fighting between the Communist Pathet Lao and royalist government in Vientiane ensued, ending with a ceasefire in 1973. In December 1975 the Pathet Lao took control in Vientiane, founding the current Lao People’s Democratic Republic.

Language Lao or Laotian is a tonal language of the Tai-‐Kadai language family. It is the official language of Laos, and is also spoken in the northeast of Thailand, where it is usually referred to as the Isan language. Being the primary language of the Lao people, Lao is also an important second language for the multitude of ethnic groups in Laos and in Isan. Lao, like many languages in Laos, is written in the Lao script, which is an abugida script.

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Travelling in Laos

On Arrival (meeting your guide) On arrival you will be met by your guide or local transfer guide who will be carrying a signboard with your name on it. At some airports there are restrictions on signboards in which case the representative may just have your name printed on a sheet of paper.

If you are unable to find the transfer staff, please call the local emergency number listed on your tour documentation.

Please keep a copy of your completed Immigration and Customs form as you will need to present it at Immigration upon departure from Laos.

Mobile Phones Laos uses a GSM mobile phone network (GSM900/1800) mobile phone network. It is easy to purchase a pre-‐paid SIM card in Laos -‐ 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 Wireless (wifi) Internet access is available in many hotels throughout Laos. There are many cheap internet cafes in Vientiane and Luang Prabang, and in a couple in smaller towns. Be careful to not save your password or sensitive information on public computer terminals.

Electricity Electricity in Laos is 220V, 50Hz. As both two-‐prong and flat pins are in use you would be wise to bring an adaptor. Three-‐pin plug adaptors are usually provided by hotels; just ask the reception. Protect sensitive electronic equipment such as laptops from power fluctuations by using a surge-‐protector.

More information can be obtained from: www.electricaloutlet.org.

Health Please consult your doctor or travel clinic to discuss your particular health or immunisation requirements and advice on travelling to Laos before departure.

Please be aware that your health can be at risk in Laos due to poor sanitation and lack of effective medical facilities. Rural areas may not have pharmacies and hospitals so make sure you travel with a full supply of any prescribed medicine you take.

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If you have a medical condition or allergy that requires particular attention, carry a doctor’s letter which describes the nature of the condition and treatment needed.

Eating and Drinking Drinking tap water is not advisable. Bottled drinking water is widely available for a reasonable price. The majority of hotels and restaurants will use hygienic ice, however, if eating at a market or on the street it may be best to avoid ice.

When eating at local restaurants or at street food stalls, select those which are frequented by locals and where the food is freshly cooked. Avoid salads and unpeeled fruits unless they have been washed in clean water.

Shopping Laos is still developing, and some local sellers can be very persistent when trying to make money, especially around tourists who they perceive to be wealthy. People will probably try to overcharge you, but rather than becoming irritated, join the game, haggle and bargain with a smile! Bargaining is a way of life and is usually expected in markets and small shops. As a rule, when haggling go for half of what you’re offered and work your way up. You may need to haggle for anything ... from a souvenir to a taxi fare. Ask your guide for a few tips! It is also recommended to check prices of the same items in the neighbourhood before reaching a deal.

Ask your guide to take you to local markets rather than the expensive tourist orientated ones. These markets have a higher level of locally-‐made products and allow you to give something back to the local community, rather than a middle man. Although we encourage you to haggle a little over prices, please be aware that a few simple dollars for you could mean feeding a family for the artisan, and many of these people earn the minimum wage

If you're being followed by street vendors and do not wish to make a purchase, the best course of action is generally to say “no” firmly and politely, and continue on your way. Do not hesitate or linger, as this will encourage the seller to try and engage you further.

If you choose to ship items home, we highly recommend that you buy shipping insurance and check the policy details. GetAboutAsia do not take responsibility for following up on merchandise that you choose to ship home. Please be aware when returning home (particularly to New Zealand and Australia), as some handicrafts are made of wood and may contain seeds and MUST be declared at Customs.

Cultural Etiquette • In Laos, revealing clothing is unacceptable. Shorts are generally fine as long as they are not

too short.

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• 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 and religious sites. Shoes are often removed upon entering private homes too.

• The Lao people consider it disrespectful to touch someone on their head. It is 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. • Public displays of affection between men and women may embarrass your host. On the

other hand, it is 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.

• Try not to get angry as shouting in frustration or becoming abusive is very impolite and generally does not achieve a positive result.

Tipping Although tipping is not compulsory in Laos, it is greatly appreciated. The below is a guideline:

• Tour Guide/Drivers If you are pleased with the services provided by your tour guide and driver, then a tip for their hard work will be very much appreciated. In general, we recommend around US$10-‐15 per day per traveller for guides and US$5-‐7 per day per traveller for drivers if less than 4 people in a group. If there are 5 people or more in a group then we recommend around US$5-‐10 per day per traveller for guides and US$3-‐5 per day per traveller for drivers.

• Hotel & Restaurant Staff A tip of 5-‐10% of the total bill in restaurants is appreciated. If you stay a couple of days in the same hotel, a tip to the maid service of $2-‐3/day is suggested. For porters, US$2-‐3 per time per room is acceptable.

• Boat Cruise If you travel on a local basic boat such as on a Mekong River day trip, a small tip of US$3-‐10 per boat is appreciated -‐ more or less depending on the group size and the trip’s duration. For an overnight boat trip such as on board the Luang Say or other overnight boats, the suggestion is $5-‐10 per person per night to cover all the boat crew.

Public Holidays There are various public holidays in Laos including the following:

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• New Years Day -‐ 1 Jan • Lao New Year -‐ Apr • Day of the People's Party -‐ 22 Mar • Day of the Free Laos -‐ 13 Aug • Day of Liberation/Independence Day -‐ 12 Oct • Lao National Day -‐ 2 Dec

Sustainable Tourism At GetAboutAsia we try encourage sustainable touring from all our customers. Many of the places you visit do not have Western class infrastructure and accordingly locals tend to use lower levels of water and electricity than in the West. As tourism increases it places a large strain on the local water reticulation, power supply and other resources. Take short showers in your hotel, turn out the lights when you leave your hotel room, minimise your waste generally and if on a trek, make sure you bag your rubbish while you are hiking. Also remember that all ecosystems in Asia are extremely delicate. When in these rural areas please stay to the trails and do not damage or take any plants or flowers.

Laos people are proud of their culture and ancestry. Although they are now accustomed to international tourists, each region continues to maintain their identity and culture. Generally most Asian people dress conservatively. Consider wearing trousers and long leave shirts to minimise any potential offence.

Safety Tips • In general, Laos is very safe for travellers. Violent attacks are rare although theft does occur. • Do not take unnecessary valuable with you when travelling. • Do not leave valuables in a hotel room except in a safety deposit box. Alternatively leave

your valuables in the hotel safe and obtain a receipt listing each item. 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 trousers or anywhere else that is easily reached (like an outer zip-‐up compartment on a backpack). Be especially vigilant in markets and other crowded places.

• Wearing a money belt or something similar close to your body is the best way to carry money, passports and tickets.

• Use common sense and do not walk alone after dark. If confronted by a mugger, do not resist.

• If you choose to ride a motorcycle or bike, wear a helmet. Please note that you may not be covered by your travel insurance if you have an accident on a motorcycle, whether you are the driver or passenger.

• If you put your bag down to take a photo, or when sitting in a cafe, put your foot through the strap. Anything left lying around is liable to theft.

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• 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).

• 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.

• If, at the end of the day, you are unfortunate enough to be robbed – accept it as a travel experience. Ensure that you have good travel insurance and that you have read the small print so that you know what is required to make a successful claim. Excluding precious photos, most things can be replaced in Laos. Don’t let it spoil your holiday and don’t suddenly believe that every local is a thief. The overwhelming majority are kind, honest, hardworking people, who detest the thieves probably more than you do – if they are robbed, they usually have no insurance.

Useful phrases English Laotian Pronunciation Hello Sa bai dee Saa bye dee Good-‐bye Laa gawn Laa gone Thank you Khawp jai Gob chai Thank you very much Khawp jai lai lai/ khawp jai euh Gob chai lai lai/ gob chai duh You’re welcome Baw pen nyahng Bore pen nyan No problem Baw mi banhaa Bore mee bun haa How are you? Sa bai dee baw? Saa bye dee bore? I’m fine Sabai dee Saa bye dee I’m not fine Baw sabai Bore saa bye Yes Jao Jao No Baw Bore I don’t understand Baw kao jai Bore cow chai Do you have . . . ? Mii . . . baw? Mee … bore? drinking water Nam-‐deum Num Dum I would like . . . Kaaw . . . Kore… Where is the toilet? Hawng nam yoo sai? Hong num yoo sai? How much kip/dollar? Tao dai keep/baht/dollah? Tao dai kip/ dollar? Expensive Paeng Pheng 1 Neung Noong 2 Sawng Song 3 Saam Sarm 4 Sii Sii

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5 Haa Haa 6 Hok Hock 7 Ched Kyet 8 Bpaed Bared 9 Gao Kao 10 Sip Seep

Booking Terms & Conditions

1. Parties

1.1 These terms and conditions form part of the contract between:

1.1.1 Chimu Adventures Pty Ltd (ACN 110 269 380) (“the company”); and

1.1.2 Any person wishing to travel on a tour provided or offered by the company (“the client”)

1.2 The person making the booking for the tour warrants that, before making the booking, he or she has read and has agreed to be bound by these terms and conditions.

1.3 Where the booking for a tour is made other than by all persons wishing to travel on the tour, the person making the booking warrants that he or she has advised each person wishing to travel on the tour of these terms and conditions and further warrants that each such person has agreed to be bound by them.

2. Payment of deposit

2.1 At the time of booking, the client must pay a deposit of at least the following:

2.1.1 In respect of cruises, an amount equivalent to at least 20% of the estimated total cost.

2.1.2 In respect of land tours, transfers and accommodation, an amount equivalent to at least 25% of the estimated total cost.

2.1.3 In respect of airfares, 100% of the estimated total cost.

2.1.4 In respect to some specific products, a deposit of a different amount (usually 100% of the estimated total cost) may be required. This will be confirmed in the quotation provided. (hereafter referred to as the “minimum deposits”)

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2.2 The company shall be at liberty to give notice to the client of any variation to the minimum deposits at any time before the minimum deposits are paid.

2.3 A booking shall not be deemed to have been accepted or to be binding until such time as the minimum deposits, or any of them that are applicable, have been paid.

2.4 The acceptance by the company of payment of a deposit does not, by itself, constitute acceptance of a booking. A booking will be deemed to have been accepted once the company has confirmed its acceptance in writing.

3. Payment of the balance of the tour price

3.1 The balance of the tour price, being the total estimated tour price less any deposits paid, must be paid at least 95 days prior to the client’s departure date. For some specific product bookings the balance of the tour price may need to be paid earlier than 95 days prior to the client's departure, which will be confirmed in the quotation provided.

3.2 In the event that the balance of the tour price is not paid in accordance with 3.1 above, then the company reserves the right to cancel the client’s booking. In that event, the client agrees that he or she shall not be entitled to a refund of any deposit paid, such deposit to be retained by the company by way of compensation for the time spent and work performed by it. The company shall however retain a discretion, to be exercised entirely as it thinks fit, as to whether or not to refund all or part of any deposit paid in the event of cancellation in these circumstances.

3.3 In the event that the balance of the tour price is not paid in accordance with 3.1 above, and the company, at its discretion, determines not to cancel the client’s booking, then the client agrees to pay to the company any additional charges, fees or expenses that have been or may be properly incurred as a result of the balance of the tour price not having been paid by the stipulated time.

4. Variation by the client

4.1 In the event that the client wishes to vary his or her booking, the request for a variation must be made in writing.

4.2 The company will use reasonable endeavours to try and satisfy the request for variation and will advise the client if it can be satisfied.

4.3 If the request for variation can be satisfied:

4.3.1 The company will advise the client of any variation in the tour price; and

4.3.2 The client agrees to pay to the company an administration fee of $100 (plus GST) in respect of each variation requested, payable within 14 days of confirmation of the variation.

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4.4 If, despite the reasonable endeavours of the company, the request for variation cannot be satisfied, then it is agreed that the booking sought to be varied shall remain in existence (if the client seeks to cancel the booking, the cancellation provisions set out herein will apply).

5. Cancellation by the client

5.1 In the event that the client wishes to cancel a booked tour, then he or she must provide a written notice of cancellation (“the cancellation notice”) to the company.

5.2 The cancellation notice must be:

5.2.1 Delivered to an office of the company; or

5.2.2 Sent by facsimile transmission to the company’s facsimile number existing as at the date of the cancellation notice; or

5.2.3 Sent by e-‐mail to the company’s e-‐mail address existing as at the date of the cancellation notice.

5.3 In the event that the cancellation notice is received by the company more than 95 days before the client’s departure date (or the number of days for bookings containing specialist products that require full payment prior to 95 days where this is advised in the quotation), then the company shall refund to the client all monies paid less any deposit as set out in 2.1 above and which deposit the company shall be entitled to retain as compensation for the work done and time spent by it.

5.4 In the event that the cancellation notice is received by the company 95 days or less before the departure date (or the number of days for bookings containing specialist products that require full payment prior to 95 days where this is advised in the quotation), then the company shall not be obliged to make any refund to the client. In this respect, the client acknowledges that, in addition to the work done and time spent by it, the company will have paid monies to tour suppliers and it may not be possible for the company to obtain a refund from these suppliers where the cancellation notice is received within that period. Notwithstanding that, the company shall, if practical, and at its sole discretion, make such refund as circumstances reasonably permit.

5.5 (This line intentionally left blank)

5.6 The company strongly recommends that the client take out and maintain a policy of insurance to cover cancellation of any tours.

6. Variation or cancellation by the company

6.1 The company will make reasonable endeavours to provide any tour that is advertised or offered. However, it may be necessary for the company to vary or even cancel some tours, whether due to force majeure or otherwise. Where it becomes necessary for the company to vary or cancel a tour, the company will use reasonable endeavours to provide an alternate tour that is substantially the

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same or as similar as practical to the tour that is advertised or offered. The client acknowledges that such a necessity may arise from time to time and the client warrants not to make any claim of any nature, subject to these terms and conditions, against the company in respect of any such variations or cancellations.

6.2 The client acknowledges that the company may, in order to provide maximum opportunities for the client, propose flexible or alternate arrangements. Any flexible or alternate arrangements may extend to routes, schedules, itineraries, amenities and mode of transport. The client accepts, at the time of booking, the possibility for and appropriateness of such flexible or alternate arrangements and shall make no claim against the company in respect thereof. The information provided by the company in its brochures is correct to the best of the knowledge of the company at the time of print but the company does not, and cannot, guarantee that any item or amenity will be available at the time requested by the client.

6.3 When it is necessary for the company to substantially vary or cancel a tour that it has advertised or offered, the client shall be at liberty to request the company:

6.2.1 To refund to the client so much of the tour price paid by him or her that the company can reasonably and properly refund, allowing for all the circumstances; or

6.2.2 To credit so much of the tour price paid by him or her as the company can reasonably and properly credit, allowing for all the circumstances, to another tour offered by the company but shall not be entitled to make any further claims against the company.

7. Unused services

7.1 The company shall not be liable to refund to the client any monies paid by the client for a tour, part of a tour or for services not used by the client.

8. Prices

8.1 Prices quoted by the company prior to or at the time of booking are calculated by reference to a number of factors, including exchange rates, Government charges, both in Australia and overseas, transport costs including fuel charges, prices charged by suppliers in other countries and other matters.

8.2 The company will use its best endeavours to ensure that prices quoted by it prior to or at the time of booking remain valid until payment in full is made for the tour. The client acknowledges that some of the variable factors affecting the cost of the tour, including but not limited to those referred to in 8.1 above, may increase between the time of booking and the time of payment in full. In the event of any such increases, the company reserves the right to pass on to the client any such amounts, provided that, subject to term and condition 8.3 below, it does so at least 30 days before the date of departure and the client agrees to pay same.

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8.3 Once the client has paid in full for the tour, the company shall not be entitled to pass on to the client any increases in the variable factors referred to above, save where any such increases are imposed by Government regulation, or similar, whether in Australia or overseas, or where such increases, wherever imposed, are solely as a result of fuel surcharges. In that event, the company shall be entitled to require the client to pay such surcharges, and the client agrees to do so.

9. Acceptance of risk

9.1 The client acknowledges that the tours offered by the company may be considered to be, in full or in part, adventurous. That consideration is one taken into account by the client in making the booking. The tours may involve personal risk, such risks to include illness, injury, disease, loss or damage to property, discomfort and inconvenience. The client, in making the booking, accepts such risks and agrees that he or she has made the booking upon the condition that he or she travels at his or her own risk. The client warrants that he or she shall not make any claim against the company for injury or loss, howsoever caused, arising out of the acceptance of such risk.

9.2 It is the responsibility of the client to be informed about any travel advisories or warnings issued by any Government Department. If a travel advisory or warning is issued by a Government Department in relation to a destination to which the client has booked to go, then the client may, at his or her discretion, cancel the booking (and in which case the cancellation provisions herein referred to will apply) or proceeding with it. If the client decides to proceed with the booking, then the client acknowledges and agrees that he or she has decided to do so at his or her own risk and will not make any claims against the company in respect thereof.

10. Insurance

10.1 The client shall, prior to or at the time of booking, take out, and maintain for the duration of the tour, insurance that will provide indemnity to the client for at least the following:

10.1.1 Unlimited medical expenses; and

10.1.2 Unlimited repatriation expenses.

10.2 The company shall, at any time, be at liberty to request the client to produce to the company a copy of a policy or certificate of insurance to show that 10.1 above has been satisfied. In the event that the client fails to produce a copy of the policy or certificate within 48 hours after being so requested by the company, then the company reserves the right to cancel the client’s booking, and in which case any monies paid by the client shall be forfeited to and retained by the company by way of compensation for the work done and time spent by it. The client acknowledges that the request for evidence of such insurance is an important request in relation to the company’s business.

11. Authority on tour

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11.1 At all times, the decision of the company’s tour leader or representative will be final on all matters of or pertaining to the tour. The client agrees to comply at all times with any decisions or directions of the company’s tour leader or representative as well as with the laws, customs requirements, foreign exchange requirements and drug regulations of all countries to be visited.

11.2 Should the client fail to comply with a decision or direction of the company’s tour leader or representative, unless same shall be manifestly unreasonable or unlawful, then the tour leader or representative may require the client to leave the tour and in which case the client agrees to do so. In that event, the client shall not be entitled to make any claim against the company and warrants that he or she will not do so.

12. Travel documents

12.1 The client acknowledges that it is his or her responsibility to obtain and maintain a valid passport, any valid visas, permits or certificates, including vaccination certificates, for any tour booked with the company. The client further acknowledges that it is his or her responsibility to ascertain any requirements for such matters and to ensure that those requirements are satisfied.

12.2 Whilst the company will endeavour to notify the client of any changes to matters of the type referred to in 12.1 above, the client acknowledges that the company has no legal responsibility to do so and further acknowledges that it is the client’s responsibility to ascertain such matters.

13. Disclaimer of liability

13.1 The company will use reasonable endeavours to ensure that its obligations pursuant to the contract with the client are satisfied. However, despite those reasonable endeavours, it is not always possible for those obligations to be satisfied. Unless otherwise excluded or modified by law, the company hereby disclaims liability for any loss of or damage to the client, including loss of life or injury, and loss of or damage to any of the client’s property, however such loss or damage may be caused. Unless such disclaimer shall be excluded or modified by law, the client warrants that he or she will not make or pursue any claim against the company in respect of any such loss or damage, however caused.

13.2 The client acknowledges that the provisions of 13.1 above are reasonable and necessary for the business of the company having regard to a range of matters including but not limited to the following:

13.2.1 The adventurous nature of tours offered by the company

13.2.2 The location where tours are conducted, and where services, amenities and facilities may be of a lower standard than the standard to which a client is accustomed.

13.2.3 The tours or parts of them are supplied or undertaken by third party operators. Whilst the company has undertaken due diligence on the quality of the services offered by such third party

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operators, and has been satisfied as to the adequacy of that quality, it cannot be responsible for any acts or omissions on their parts.

13.3 The client also acknowledges that there may be flight delays (due to circumstances beyond the control of the company) that may lead to interference with a tour for which the client has booked. The company will not be responsible for any flight delays or loss of flight connections whether such loss is caused by the client, the company, any of its suppliers, an airline or other. In the case of any loss of flight connections, whilst reasonable effort will be made by the company to continue with the booked tour, the company will not be liable to compensate clients for any lost part of their itinerary and the company will not be liable to pay for any additional costs that may be incurred by the client as a result of any loss. The company strongly recommends that clients have insurance that will cover them for flight cancellations and delays.

13.4 The client acknowledges that it is the client’s responsibility to check-‐in on time for his or her flight at any airport. The company will not be responsible for any flights that are not taken by the client due to the client’s late arrival at any airport, or for any other reason the client does not take a flight. It is also the client’s responsibility to contact the relevant airline companies at an appropriate time before any flight departure to confirm that all details relating to their flights are correct.

14. Medical condition

14.1 The client warrants that he or she has disclosed or will disclose to the company prior to or at the time of the booking of a tour any adverse medical condition from which the client has suffered during a period of 2 years prior to the date of booking. The client acknowledges that such disclosure is important and relevant because it may affect the willingness of the company to accept the client’s booking and may affect any advice that the company would seek to give to the client in relation to any proposed tour.

15. Allergies

15.1 The client warrants that he or she has disclosed or will disclose to the company prior to or at the time of the booking of a tour any allergies, including food allergies, from which the client suffers. The client acknowledges that such disclosure is important and relevant because it may affect the willingness of the company to accept the client’s booking and may affect any advice that the company would seek to give to the client in relation to any proposed tour.

16. Credit card merchants fee

16.1 The client acknowledges that payment by the client by credit card will attract a merchant fee and which the client agrees to pay to the company. Currently, the merchant fee is 2% for any amount debited by Visa or Mastercard and 3% for any amount debited by American Express card. The credit card fee will be debited to the client’s credit card at the time of payment of the balance of the tour price.

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17. Conventions

17.1 The client acknowledges that there exists a number of international conventions governing travel and specifically limiting liability and compensation in certain circumstances. These conventions include by are not limited to: Warsaw Convention 1929 as amended by the Hague Protocol of 1955; Berne Convention 1961; Athens Convention 1974; Paris Convention 1962; Geneva Convention 1973 and the Montreal Convention 1999. The client acknowledges that some or all of those conventions may apply to any tour to be undertaken by the client.

18. Binding law

18.1 The contract between the company and the client, including these terms and conditions, are subject to and are to be construed in accordance with the laws of the State of New South Wales and, as appropriate, the Commonwealth of Australia. In relation to any dispute between the parties, the company and the client agree to submit to the exclusive jurisdiction of the Courts of New South Wales.

19. Variation

19.1 These terms and conditions may only be varied with the prior written consent of the company.

20. Superseding effect

20.1 The terms and conditions set out herein supersede any previous understandings, arrangements or terms and conditions that may previously have existed between the company and the client.

21. Binding effect

21.1 The contract between the company and the client, including these terms and conditions, shall be binding upon the heirs and successors of the parties hereto.

22. Data Protection

22.1 The company will use its best endeavours to protect the client’s personal information. However, the client acknowledges that the company will, in order to provide the services or products in question, need to provide some or all of the client’s personal information to third parties, including overseas tour suppliers.