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Page 1: GOdownloads.contiki.com/ebrochures/tg_asia_1011.pdfGO Your travel guide to Contiki & Asia Incl. Laos, Vietnam, Cambodia & Thailand Inside you’ll find information about your tour

GOYour travel guide toContiki & AsiaIncl. Laos, Vietnam,Cambodia & Thailand

Inside you’ll find information aboutyour tour & the places you’ll visit.

Page 2: GOdownloads.contiki.com/ebrochures/tg_asia_1011.pdfGO Your travel guide to Contiki & Asia Incl. Laos, Vietnam, Cambodia & Thailand Inside you’ll find information about your tour

Personal detailsAbout me:Name: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Home address: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

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. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

email: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Mobile phone: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Home phone: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Blood group: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Allergies: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Driver’s licence (Home): . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Driver’s licence (International): . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

PIN: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Emergency contact:Name: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Relationship: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Phone: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Passport details:Number: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Expiry date: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Date passport issued: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Where passport issued: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Travel insurance:Company name: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Policy number: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

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Page 3: GOdownloads.contiki.com/ebrochures/tg_asia_1011.pdfGO Your travel guide to Contiki & Asia Incl. Laos, Vietnam, Cambodia & Thailand Inside you’ll find information about your tour

Welcome to ContikiThank you for choosing to travel with us!

We’re looking forward to helping you see & discover Asia, fromthe amazing beaches of Nha Trang to the temples in Bangkok.

Before you start your tour, take some time to read through thisTravellers Guide – there’s lots of helpful information about Asia& your holiday. It’s full of ideas like what to pack, how muchmoney you’ll need, what to do in the city where your tourstarts & much more.

We’ve been travelling the world for almost 50 years - we knowit inside & out. From included sightseeing to places to eat &things to do in your free time, we know what you’re after &we’re looking forward to taking you there.

On behalf of all the team at Contiki Asia – have a great holiday!

Nicole MoyContiki Asia

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Page 4: GOdownloads.contiki.com/ebrochures/tg_asia_1011.pdfGO Your travel guide to Contiki & Asia Incl. Laos, Vietnam, Cambodia & Thailand Inside you’ll find information about your tour

ContentsBefore you go 5-13• What to pack • Baggage allowance • Checklist • Map ofAsia • Check in online • Clothing • Toiletries & medication• Electricity & voltage • Flying hints • Travel documents• Insurance • Passports & Visas • Vaccinations• Money matters • Access to money • Budgeting• International country codes • Photography

General information 14-19• Your Contiki crew • Accommodation • Meals• Making a difference & responsible travel • Transport• Internal flights • Smoking • Health & hygiene• Local customs • Local payments • Tipping • Shopping• Laundry facilities • Asian Embassies & Consulates

Where your tour starts 22Tour briefings 22

Vietnam information 22-26

Thailand information 27-29

Cambodia information 29-30

Laos information 30-32

My notes 33

Worldwide offices 34

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Page 5: GOdownloads.contiki.com/ebrochures/tg_asia_1011.pdfGO Your travel guide to Contiki & Asia Incl. Laos, Vietnam, Cambodia & Thailand Inside you’ll find information about your tour

Before you goWhat to packBelow is a guide about how much luggage to bring on tour &some ideas for what to pack for the time of year you’re travelling.

The golden rule of travellers is: “Decide how many clothesyou want to take – halve the amount & that’s how muchyou’ll need!”

Baggage allowanceBaggage is restricted to one reasonable sized suitcase.Please ensure your suitcase is no larger than 73cm x 50cm x25cm (29” x 20” x 10”) non-expanding & maximum weight of20kgs (44lbs). You can should also bring one small bag, butno metal frame backpacks or vanity cases please as they aredifficult to pack.

On some tours it will be necessary to use an overnight bagwhere it’s not possible to unload your suitcase, such asovernight rail journeys, overnight junk boat or overnight staysat guesthouses. We recommend that your hand luggage ordaypack is suitable as an overnight bag as well.

Due to the large number of included flights on Contiki’s Asiatours, luggage also needs to meet the weight & securityrestrictions imposed by airlines. Contiki is not responsible forany costs incurred by overweight luggage.

ChecklistThe checklist below gives you an idea of some other thingsyou may need to organise & pack before you depart:

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❏ Travel Insurance❏ Visas (if applicable)❏ Contiki tour vouchers❏ Camera❏ Insect repellent❏ Two spare

passport-sized photos❏ Passport

❏ Travellers❏ Cheques/money

Contiki hotel vouchers❏ Vaccinations❏ Suntan lotion❏ Adaptor

(for electrical appliances)

NB: Don’t pack your passport or money in your suitcase!

Remember to bring photocopies of your passport & visa/s(if applicable), plus some extra passport-sized photos ifyou’re applying for on-arrival visas.

While we will do all we can to assist you, it is not Contiki’sresponsibility to retrieve items that you leave behind in hotelsetc. while on tour.

Page 6: GOdownloads.contiki.com/ebrochures/tg_asia_1011.pdfGO Your travel guide to Contiki & Asia Incl. Laos, Vietnam, Cambodia & Thailand Inside you’ll find information about your tour

Map of Asia

THAILAND

LAOS

MALAYS

Burma

Malaysia

PakbengLuaPrab

Vang VieChiang Rai

Chiang Mai

Bangkok

Vientiane

Gulf of Thailand

Page 7: GOdownloads.contiki.com/ebrochures/tg_asia_1011.pdfGO Your travel guide to Contiki & Asia Incl. Laos, Vietnam, Cambodia & Thailand Inside you’ll find information about your tour

VIETNAM

SIA

CAMBODIA

Mekong Delta

Ho Chi Minh City

Nha Trang

Hoi An

Siem Reap

Hue

Halong Bay

Sapa

ng bang

eng

Phnom Penh

e

Hanoi

South China Sea

Gulf of Tonkin

Page 8: GOdownloads.contiki.com/ebrochures/tg_asia_1011.pdfGO Your travel guide to Contiki & Asia Incl. Laos, Vietnam, Cambodia & Thailand Inside you’ll find information about your tour

Before you goCheck-in online Give us your details & tell us what you’re interested in beforeyou start your tour. It’ll save you time, so you can get on withhaving fun as soon as you arrive. Visit contiki.com/checkinfor details.

ClothingThe checklist below gives you an idea of the clothing thatyou will require on your Asia tour.

Slip-on shoes or sandals are useful for visits to pagodas orguest houses, as you’ll save time taking your shoes on & off.When visiting pagodas or temples, shorts & tank-tops areunacceptable. Your knees & shoulders must also be covered.

If your trip includes stops at beaches & mountainous areas,you will need clothes for all temperatures. Ideas of what topack include a swimsuit, sunglasses, a hat, t-shirts, shortsthat are not too revealing, long trousers, some light-weight,long-sleeved tops & a light jacket that is wind &rain-resistant.

If you plan to visit the mountainous areas of Laos or Vietnamin the winter, you’ll need a warm coat. Destinations at higheraltitudes can get chilly; so you’re advised to choose clothesthat you can layer. If you’ve chosen the Sapa Trekking tour,you will need sturdy footwear plus lots of socks.

The larger cities like Phnom Penh, Ho Chi Minh City &Bangkok offer some upscale bars & restaurants, so be sureto pack some clothes & shoes for an evening out. However, itis recommended that you leave any expensive personal itemsat home to avoid attracting too much attention.

Toiletries & medicationAlthough imported beauty products are readily available inlarger cities, it’s advisable to pack staples like sunscreen,contact lens solution & mosquito repellent, as well asprescription medication. Many medicines are available inIndochina without prescriptions, but they may be out-of-dateor of poor quality. Larger cities have department stores whichare good places to stock up on Western toiletries & medicines.

Electricity & voltageVietnam: Most of the electrical current in Vietnam is 220V,50Hz. Round two-plug pins are more common althoughsome places use flat pins or 3-pronged pins. Cheap adaptorsare sold in local markets.

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Before you goElectricity & voltage cont’d:Thailand: Thailand has 220V, 50Hz electricity. Wall outletsare usually the round, 2-pin type, although some fit 2flat blades.

Cambodia: Electricity in Phnom Penh & most of Cambodia is220V, 50Hz. Electric power sockets generally fit 2 round pins. 3-pin plug adaptors are sold in markets in Phnom Penh.

Laos: Laos has 220V, 50Hz electricity. As both 2-prong & flatpins are in use you would be wise to bring adaptors.

Note: Protect sensitive electronic equipment like laptopsfrom power fluctuations by using a surge-protector.

Flying hints• Ensure you carry all your travel documentation, your

camera & any items to keep you occupied on your flight inyour hand luggage.

• Most airports have restrictions on the amount of liquids thatcan be in your hand luggage. Check this before you pack.

• Take advantage of Duty-Free shopping but check the currentDuty-Free limits that apply in the country of your destination.

• Don’t carry articles packed by others & never acceptarticles to carry from people not known to you.

• Adjust immediately into local time on arrival by stayingawake until evening before sleeping. This will help yourecover from jet-lag.

In each of these countries, penalties for drug offences aresevere & include the death penalty. The possession of evensmall quantities of “soft drugs” for recreational purposes canresult in lengthy jail sentences & deportation.

Travel documentsYou should bring a money-belt to safely carry your traveldocuments & cash & ensure that your luggage has a lock.Bring photocopies of your passport & visa, plus some extrapassport-sized photos if you’re applying for on-arrival visas.When flying into or within Vietnam, Thailand, Cambodia &Laos you will probably be given baggage claim tags (they willbe stuck to the back of your ticket). Keep these, as you mayneed to show them when leaving the airport.

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Before you goInsuranceYou must take out comprehensive insurance cover forcancellation, medical expenses, personal accident, personalbaggage, money & public liability before you travel. You maynot be accepted on a Contiki holiday unless you have arrangedsatisfactory insurance. You also agree to indemnify us againstall third-party claims, actions, damages & remedies against usarising from your participation in the holiday.

For insurance details, please speak to your Travel Agent orContiki reservations agent at the time of making your booking.

Passports & Visas (please read carefully)All passengers travelling to these countries require a validpassport, valid for 6 months beyond the conclusion of theirtrip & with appropriate visas. Depending on your nationality,you may require visas to enter certain countries included inyour tour. You are responsible for obtaining all necessaryvisas, as well as to comply with entry, health or otherrequirements of the countries visited.

Check with your travel agent or online to determine whetheryou require visas & ensure you obtain them prior to departureif necessary.

The Operators &/or their employees & agents are notresponsible for passport, visa, entry, health or otherrequirements of the countries visited or any loss sustained byyou for failing to comply with laws, regulations, orders &/orrequirements of the countries visited.

Important:1. Visas can take up to six weeks to obtain & a fee is

normally charged.

2. Failure to obtain all necessary visas could cause you tomiss part of your tour & may result in you incurringconsiderable expense & inconvenience.

3. It is better to apply for all visas through your travel agent orthrough the consulate before you leave home. It is veryimportant that the entry & exit dates on the visa are correct.Your travel agent will contact Contiki for full details.

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Page 11: GOdownloads.contiki.com/ebrochures/tg_asia_1011.pdfGO Your travel guide to Contiki & Asia Incl. Laos, Vietnam, Cambodia & Thailand Inside you’ll find information about your tour

Before you goVaccinationsAt the time of print, (April 2010), the following immunizationswere recommended for travellers in Southeast Asia:• Diphtheria & tetanus

• Hepatitis A

• Typhoid

• Meningococcal Meningitis

• Rabies

• Japanese B Encephalitis

Don’t forget to bring with you any medication that you mayrequire en route such as antihistamines, antibiotics, etc.

Please note that while malaria is still rare, dengue fever isanother disease carried by mosquitoes which is on theincrease & commonly contracted by travellers. Althoughcases usually do not require hospitalization, catching denguewould still ruin your trip. There is no immunization availablefor the virus – just make sure you always sleep beneath amosquito net in open-style rooms & always apply mosquitorepellent, especially near water, as dengue mosquitoes biteduring the day.

Money mattersCurrencyThe two main currencies you’ll encounter in Asia are theUnited States Dollars (USD) plus a local currency such as Riel(Cambodia), Kip (Laos), Baht (Thailand) or Dong (Vietnam).

We recommend you carry cash as well as Travellers Chequesin small denominations in United States Dollars (USD) plussome local currency. Please note, Travellers Cheques areaccepted in big cities but it is wise to bring adequate funds incash if travelling in remote areas. You will need to allowenough money to cover optional lunches & dinners, souvenirs& shopping, drinks, explore more optional activities, entrancefees to some attractions & evening entertainment.

Access to moneyWe highly recommend that you carry your currency in anumber of different ways (cash, credit cards, travellerscheques) so that you have access to money at all times whileyou’re on tour. Please do not rely solely on a credit/debit cardfor cash as they are not accepted in all areas.

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Page 12: GOdownloads.contiki.com/ebrochures/tg_asia_1011.pdfGO Your travel guide to Contiki & Asia Incl. Laos, Vietnam, Cambodia & Thailand Inside you’ll find information about your tour

Before you goBudgetingThere are loads of great things to spend your money on whileyou’re in Asia – from a trip to an offshore island, to a specialdinner or outfit that you just can’t resist… So how muchmoney should you bring?

Remember your tour already includes plenty of things suchas breakfast every day, many evening meals, lots ofsightseeing, guided tours & activities & much more. So whatelse will you spend your money on? As a guide, the tablebelow shows you the main items you’ll probably spend yourmoney on while you’re on tour.

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Item

Lunch

DinnerPublic transport /taxis (during freetime)

Sightseeing /museum entrances

Optional activitiesEntertainment /drinks

Internet access

Souvenirs

Frequency

Every day (Note:Cruising toursinclude somelunches, so checkyour tourdocuments fordetails)On nights whenthere is no includedor optional dinner

On free days incities

On free days incitiesAverage amountper day if you doall activities As often as youwantOn free days incitiesOn free days incities

Approximatecost

US$5 - US$10

US$15 - US$30

US$5

US$5

US$7

US$5 - US$15

US$1 - US$5

US$1- US$10

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Before you go

Your Tour Manager can recommend the most convenientplaces to call home.

Photography Taking photos is a great way of remembering your trip to Asia.Your Tour Manager will endeavour to allow as much time aspossible for you to take photographs. However there may beoccasions when it is not possible or practical to stop the coach.If travelling with a digital camera you should try to carrymemory cards with enough storage for at least five days at atime. You may have access to internet cafes in some largerplaces visited but doing it every couple of days will reducethe free time you have in cities.

If you are travelling with a film camera you should bring asupply of film with you as it is generally only sold at the largertourist centres/cities & even then it may be out-of-date orsun-damaged. For peace of mind, skip the cut-price, back-alley photo shops & get your precious pictures developedsomewhere you trust.

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International country codesWhen calling home you will need to ensure you use thecorrect country code – below are a few for your reference.

Australia 61

Great Britain 44

New Zealand 64

Japan 81

Singapore 65

Israel 972

Mexico 52

Canada 1

USA 1

South Africa 27

Indonesia 6

Malaysia 60

Brazil 55

Page 14: GOdownloads.contiki.com/ebrochures/tg_asia_1011.pdfGO Your travel guide to Contiki & Asia Incl. Laos, Vietnam, Cambodia & Thailand Inside you’ll find information about your tour

General informationYour Contiki Crew Tour Manager: Contiki Tour Managers have been chosen forthe qualities that enable them to make your trip to Asia aricher experience. Many of our Tour Managers have workedwith us in other places around the globe. They’re all English-speaking expats who call Asia home. You’ll appreciate theirknowledge of all the local hotspots like where you’re going,the best things to see & ideas for your free time. They alsocomplete all the ‘behind the scenes’ work of pre-booking,border & customs procedures to make your tour hassle-free.In some circumstances, it may be necessary for your TourManager to make decisions on behalf of the group as awhole. In such cases, we ask for your cooperation. His orher decisions & discretion should be observed because theyare in your interest & that of the Crew & Contiki.

Local Guides: Contiki works closely with our ‘on-the-ground’partner, award-winning Trails of Indochina, to buddy up withlocal English-speaking guides. These professional, LocalGuides help you learn & discover even more with theirin-depth knowledge of the places you’re visiting.

Drivers: With their experience, you are in good hands. TheDriver is responsible for the coach & we ask you toremember that they have to keep it clean for everyone.Please adhere to the suggestions made to you at thebeginning of your tour regarding waster paper, eating &drinking while on board the coach.

The Driver, Tour Manager & Local Guide work as a team, soyou may often see them together planning your days, to giveyou lots of variety & choice.

AccommodationWe have chosen a wide range of accommodation in order foryou to get a taste of what Asia has to offer. Our accommodationhas been chosen for their particular character, charm, location & style.

Contiki Asia is almost entirely all hotel accommodation. You’ll stay in centrally located 3 star hotels & resorts on atwin-share basis. They’re all very comfortable & have somegreat amenities, like WiFi if you’re carrying a laptop oriPhone, ensuite bathrooms & a TV. We have also includedsome real Asian experiences too. Like a Home Stay in theMekong, a local guesthouse on an overnight Sapa trek, atraditional junk boat in Halong Bay & an authentic localguesthouse in Laos.

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General informationPlease note: All contracts for your accommodation arenegotiated by Contiki many months in advance. There maybe times when hotels will provide alternative accommodationto that advertised in the brochure. Such situations arebeyond Contiki’s control & we will do our utmost to minimiseany inconvenience.

MealsAll breakfasts are included, plus some lunches & dinners too.We don’t include every meal for a reason, to enable you toexplore & try new foods from the places you visit in your free-time. The Tour Manager & Local Guides can also recommendsome great places to eat & we offer some excellent authenticoptional dinners too.

Making a difference & responsible travel Contiki Asia allows you to can give something back to theplaces you visit. Wherever possible Contiki is involved withorganisations that support the community – so when youtravel Contiki, you also begin helping some of the lessfortunate in the countries we visit.

In Asia for example, we eat at some restaurants where youthhave been taken off the streets & into a job, training them notonly in hospitality but equipping them with life skills. You caneat their cuisine, made using only local ingredients & not onlydo you support these trainee chefs, you get a delicious localmeal at a great price.

TransportIn Asia, half the fun is not where you go, but how you getthere. So we have mixed up the planes, overnight trains &our air conditioned coaches & mini vans with some funky &fun ways to get around.

Your coachWe always use private, air-con coaches instead of localbuses, meaning we can get you to more remote places,quickly & easily.

Your comfort is our top concern whilst you travel. We domake frequent stops every few hours where you will have theopportunity to buy a drink or snack, smoke (if you do) & usethe toilets.

Internal flightsTo reduce travelling time between destinations we useinternal flights with reliable Vietnam Airlines, giving you moretime in the places that count.

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General informationTransport cont’d:On land, you’ll take rides in tuk-tuks & on bicycles; plus whenyou hit the water there are long tail boats, dragon boats,bamboo rafts & traditional Junk boats. Travelling with Contikiin Asia is varied & we make the most of what’s on offer soyou get a true taste of how the locals live.SmokingSmoking is not permitted on the coach, but frequent stopsare made when travelling.

Health & hygieneIt’s important to look after your health whenever you aretravelling, as you may have more late nights & early morningsthan you do at home. Your Tour Manager will give you somehints on how to stay healthy while on tour & will also be ableto provide you with obtaining medical assistance if you needit. Please remember the quality of medical services variesconsiderably from country to country in Asia & thatmedications available over the counter at home may only beobtainable on prescription in Asia.

Water in some areas is undrinkable, so please take care –your Tour Manager will advise you. Bottled water is cheap &easily found throughout the countries visited.

If you are on a regular course for medicine/contraception youmust bring a supply sufficient for the whole time you areaway from home. We also suggest you bring a small supplyof antiseptic cream, Band Aids, aspirin, insect repellent,cough mixture & perhaps a supply of antibiotics. These itemsare your responsibility.

Local customsIn some countries visited, revealing clothing is unacceptableoff the beach. Shorts are generally fine as long as they aren’ttoo short.

In terms of behaviour, public displays of affection betweenmen & women are considered shocking in some places. Onthe other hand, it’s perfectly normal for a pair of men or apair of women to link arms or hold hands. Upon meetingsomeone new, people may simply nod to each other or mayshake hands. Using both hands to shake someone’s hand isconsidered a gesture of respect.

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General information17

Local customs cont’d:The majority of men in Cambodia, Laos, Thailand & Vietnamsmoke. While flights are non-smoking, few restaurants orbars offer non-smoking seating.

Meeting the people of the countries you visit will enhanceyour enjoyment & give you some great memories to takehome. Generally, if the local people see you respecting theircustoms they are complimented & you are likely to be wellreceived by them. Remember, as an adult you will be heldliable for your actions according to the individual laws ofeach country.

Local paymentsAs is the standard for touring in Asia, Contiki has localpayments on each of their tours. Local payments are made onday 1 of the tour, directly to your Contiki Tour Manager inUnited States Dollars cash. These local payments cover localservices such as guides, tipping, attractions & some transport.

TippingTipping is an accepted practice in all areas of the serviceindustry & particularly in restaurants, bars, hotels & taxis.While on tour your Tour Manager will explain how tippingworks in each country that you visit.

Your Contiki Crew also work in the service industry & will bedoing everything they can to ensure you have the holiday ofa lifetime. At the end of the tour you will be provided with adiscrete opportunity to tip your crew. If you feel that theyhave done an excellent job for the duration of the tour wewould recommend a tip of US$3 per person per day.However, this is not compulsory, it’s completely up to you.

ShoppingAll the countries visited are still developing & so their peoplecan be very persistent when trying to make money, especiallyaround tourists. People will try to overcharge you, but ratherthen becoming irritated, join the game & bargain! They are notall ruthless hagglers, so smiles & jokes are the best way toagree on a good price. It is also recommended to check pricesof the same items in the neighbourhood before purchasing.

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General informationShopping cont’d:If you are being followed by street vendors & do not wish tomake a purchase, often the best course of action is to say“no” firmly & politely & continue on your way. Do not hesitateor linger, as this will encourage the seller to try & engageyou further.

Some shops may provide a mail service, but please be awarethat it can take up to six months & sometimes longer for thegoods to arrive home and on arrival, perhaps be liable tocustoms & excise duty. If you choose to ship items home, wehighly recommend that you buy shipping insurance & checkthe policy details. As shops are not responsible for damagesincurred en-route, it’s better to be safe than sorry.

Contiki Holidays cannot accept responsibility for anymis-represented or faulty goods. We cannot takeresponsibility for following up on merchandise that youchoose to ship home.

Laundry facilitiesIt’s a good idea to start the tour with a week’s worth of cleanclothes so if it does take you a while to get the opportunity todo washing, you won’t get caught out. Laundry facilities areavailable at a cost in the larger centres & your Tour Managerwill advise on the best places to go.

Asian Embassies & Consulates

Cambodia Embassy:No. 16B, National Assembly Street Sangkat Tonle BassacKhan Chamkamon Phnom Penh, CambodiaTel: +855 23 213470 Fax: +855 23 213 413

Laos Embassy:KM4, Thadeua Road, Watnak Village, Sisattanak District,Vientiane, Lao PDRTel: +856 21 353800 Fax: +856 21 353801

Thailand Embassy:37 South Sathorn Road, BangkokTel: +66 2 3446300 Fax: +66 2 3446593

Vietnam Embassy:8 Dao Tan Street, Ba Dinh District, HanoiTel: +84 8 3831 7755 – Fax: +84 8 3831 7711

Vietnam Consulate-General:5th Floor, The Landmark Building, 5B Ton Duc Thang, District1, Ho Chi Minh CityTel: +84 8 3829 6035 Fax: +84 8 3829 6031

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General information19

Asian Embassies & Consulates cont’d:

Cambodia Embassy:27-29 Street 75 Sangkat Srah Chak, Khan Daun Penh,Phnom Penh.Tel: +855 23 427124 / 428153 Fax: +855 23 427125

LaosSee UK Embassy in Thailand, Bangkok

Thailand Embassy:14 Wireless Road Lumpini, Pathumwan, Bangkok 10330 Tel: +66 2 305 8333 Fax:+66 2 255 9278

Thailand Honorary Consul:198 Bumrungraj Road Muang Chiang, Mai 50000Tel: +66 53 263 015 Fax: +66 53 263 016

Vietnam Embassy:Central Building 4th floor 31 Hai Ba Trung HanoiTel: +84 4 3936 0500 Fax: +84 4 3936 0561

Vietnam Consulate-General:25 Le Duan Street District 1, Ho Chi Minh City,Tel: +84 (8) 38298433 or +84 (8) 38298433Fax: +84 8 3822 1971 - Commercial/InformationFax: +84 8 3829 5257 - Visa/Consular

Cambodia Embassy:#1, Street 96, Sangkat Wat Phnom, Khan Daun Penh,Phnom PenhTel: +855 23 728 000 Fax: +855 23 728 600

Laos Embassy:Tel: +856 21 267 000 Fax: +856 21 267 190

Thailand Embassy:95 Wireless Road, Bangkok.Tel: +66-2-205-4000 or +66 2 205 4049

Thailand Consular-General:387 Witchayanond Road, Chiang Mai 50300Ph: +66 53 107 777 Fax: +66 53 252 633

Vietnam Embassy:Lang Ha Street, Ba Dinh District,Tel: Hanoi +84 4 3850 5000 Fax: +84 4 3850 5010

Vietnam Consulate General:4 Le Duan Blvd., District 1, Ho Chi Minh City,Tel: +84 8 3821 6400 Fax +84 8 3821 6405

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General informationCambodiaAccredited through New Zealand Embassies in Thailand

LaosAccredited through New Zealand Embassies in Thailand

Thailand Embassy:M Thai Tower, 14th Floor, All Seasons Place 87 WirelessRoad, Lumpini, Bangkok 10330Tel: +66 2 254 2530 Fax: +66 2 253 9045 or +66 2 253 0249

Vietnam Embassy:Level 5 63 Ly Thai To Street, Ha NoiTel: 0084 4 3824 1481 Fax:+84 4 3824 1480

Consulate-General:Suite 909, Level 9, The Metropolitan Building, 235 Dong KhoiStreet District 1, Ho Chi Minh CityTel: +84 8 3822 6907, Fax: +84 8 3822 6905

Cambodia /LaosSee Australian Embassy

Thailand Embassy:15th Floor, Abdulrahim Place 990 Rama IV RoadBangrak, Bangkok 10500 Tel: +66 2 636 0540Fax: +66 2 636 0566

Thailand Consulate:151 Super Highway, Tambon Tahsala Amphur Muang, ChiangMai 50000 Tel: +66 53 85 0147 or +66 53 24 2292,Fax: +66 53 85 0332Vietnam Embassy:31 Hung Vuong HanoiTel: +84 4 3734 5000, Fax: +84 4 3734 5049

Vietnam Consulate-General:10th Floor, The Metropolitan 235 Dong Khoi, District 1,Ho Chi Minh City Tel: +84 8 3827 9899 Fax: +84 8 3827 9935

Cambodia/LaosRepresentative in Thailand

Thailand Embassy:Floor 12 A, M-Thai Tower, All Seasons Place, No.87 WirelessRoad, Prathumwan, Lumpini 10330 Bangkok Tel: +66 2 250 9012, +66 2 250 9013 or +66 2 250 9014Fax: +66 2 685 3500

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General information21

Thailand Honorary Consulate:32 Hueaykeaw Road, Tambon Changpuek 50300, AmphurMuang, Chiang Mai Tel: +66 53 711 800 Fax: +66 53 712 972

Vietnam Embassy:3rd Floor, Central Building, 31 Hai Ba Trung Street Hanoi,Tel: +84 4 936 2000 or +84 4 936 2003 Fax: +84 4 936 1991

Cambodia Embassy:76-78 Yougoslavia Str. Phnom PenhTel: +844 216 193 or +844 216 381 Fax: +844 427 746

Laos Embassy:Rue Sokpalouang 26 (Sisattanek), Vientiane Tel: +856 21 312 110 or +856 21 312 111Fax: +856 21 351 152

Thailand Embassy:9 South Sathorn Road, Bangkok 10120Tel: +66 2287 9000 Fax: +66 2287 1776 or +66 2285 6232

Thailand Consulate:199/163 Moo 3, Baan Nai Fun 2, Kan Klong ChonpratanRoad, Tambon Mae Hia, Amphoe Muan, Chiang Mai 50100Tel: +66 53 838 735 Fax: +66 53 838 735

Vietnam Embassy:29 Tran Phu Str. Ha Noi, Tel: +84 4 845 3836 or +84 4 8453837 Fax: +84 4 845 3838 or +84 4 843 9969

Vietnam Consulate: 126 Nguyen Dinh Chieu Str. Ho ChiMinh, Tel: +84 8 829 1967 Fax: +84 8 823 1919

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Where your tour startsThe Big Indochina Adventure (BICA) ex BangkokTour starts at the Viengtai Hotel, Bangkok at 6:00pm

Tour ends at the Golden Lake Hotel, Hanoi at approx 9:00am

Asian Adventure (ASADV) ex BangkokTour starts at the Viengtai Hotel, Bangkok at 6:00pm

Tour ends at the Casa Angkor Hotel, Siem Reap atapprox 9.00am

Vietnam Experience (VIEP) ex Ho Chi Minh CityTour starts at the Vien Dong Hotel, Ho Chi Minh City at 6:00pm

Tour ends at the Golden Lake Hotel, Hanoi at approx 9:00am

Vietnam Highlights (VIHI) ex Ho Chi Minh CityTour starts at the Vien Dong Hotel, Ho Chi Minh City at 6:00pm

Tour ends at the Golden Lake Hotel, Hanoi at approx 9:00am

Sapa Trekking (SEXT) ex HanoiTour starts at the Golden Lake Hotel, Hanoi at 12:00noon

Tour ends at the Golden Lake Hotel, Hanoi at approx 5:00am

Tour briefingsTour briefings provide a chance to meet your fellowpassengers & Tour Manager & receive any new informationabout your tour. Tour briefings are held at 6:00pm on day 1for tours commencing in Bangkok & Ho Chi Minh City.At this time your Tour Manager will also collect the applicabletour local payment in United States Dollars cash.

Check for information regarding timings & location on thenoticeboard in the departure hotel reception area.

If you miss the coachPlease contact the reception staff or representative at thestart hotel (listed below) as soon as possible. They will giveyou specific details on how to join your tour.

Vietnam informationCurrency: Dong (VND)Language: VietnameseCountry Code: +84Climate: From April to October, most of the country isaffected by south-western monsoons. The rains, which tendto be concentrated in the late afternoons, provide welcomerelief to the heat. Travel to very remote areas may be affectedby the rains, but overall they should not interfere with yourtrip. The summer months are the perfect time to visitHa Long Bay, as the water is warm enough for swimming.

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Vietnam information23

Vietnam information cont’d:Northern Vietnam is at its loveliest from September

to December, when there’s a good chance of clear skies &low humidity. The hottest months in Ho Chi Minh City areApril & May. For beach destinations, such as Nha Trang,Phan Thiet & Phu Quoc Island, the weather is warm & sunnyalmost all year-round.

The best time to visit is from mid-December until September,when there may be little or no rain.

Ho Chi Minh City departure pointVien Dong Hotel

275A Pham Ngu Lao Street

District 1, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

Tel: +84 (8) 3836 8941

Fax: +84 (8) 3836 9010

Website: www.viendonghotel.benthanhtourist.com

How to get thereDrive time from Tan Son Nhat International Airport to the VienDong Hotel, Ho Chi Minh City is approximately 30 minutes.Metered taxis cost 120,000 to 150,000 dong (usually under$US10). Clients should ensure the taxi meter is turned on &working. Sasco Taxis are recommended.

Hanoi end pointGolden Lake Hotel

15 Hang Hahn Street

Hanoi, Vietnam

Tel: + 84 (4) 3828 9737

Fax: + 84 (4) 3938 1130

Website: http://goldenlakehotel.com.vn/index.php

ORPlatinum 2 Hotel

57 Nguyen Truong To str,

Ba Dinh, Hanoi, Vietnam

Tel: + 84 (4) 3927 4434

Fax: + 84 (4) 3927 4435

Website: www.platinumhotel-hanoi.com

Noi Bai International Airport is approximately 35 km or 45minutes drive north of the city. Metered taxis cost 160,000 to190,000 dong ($US10 - $US12).

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Vietnam informationHow to get there cont’d:Clients should ensure the taxi meter is turned on & working.Airport, Hanoi & Mai Linh Taxis are recommended.

Useful InformationMobile phonesVietnam uses a GSM mobile phone network & also has a newCDMA network with limited coverage over 12 cities. You canbuy a SIM card &/or hand set at any mobile phone shop. ‘Topup’ credit vouchers are available at most phone shops,particularly ones displaying the network logo, or local postoffices (buu dien). To rent a mobile phone in Ho Chi Minh Citycall (08) 3824 2382 or (04) 3821 8465 in Hanoi. You can placeinternational phone calls & send faxes at post offices or atmost hotels, although hotels often charge extra fees.

Public phonesThese require phone cards, which are sold at post offices.For the best long distance rate, dial 171 before the countrycode & number. This line has a flat fee of US$1.30 per minuteto 50 countries.

Getting aroundThe great thing about travelling in Asia, is that there are avariety of ways to get around in your free time. From tuk tuks& rickshaws, to taxis & busses there’s heaps of variety. Whenon free days in cities, ask your Tour Manager for the bestways to get to the places you want to visit.

Ideas of sites to visit in your free timeHanoiIn 1010 Emperor Ly Thai To founded his capital, which hechristened ‘Rising Dragon’, on the banks of the Red River.Almost a millennium later, Hanoi remains Vietnam’s politicalcentre, its crowded streets lined with reminders of its long &tumultuous history. You’ll find the Temple of Literature, an OldQuarter of winding alleys, crowded markets & traditional shop-houses; tree-lined avenues flanked by imposing French colonialvillas; & the Soviet-style mausoleum built in honour of the manwho led the country to independence, Ho Chi Minh.

Other ideas of sites to visit in Hanoi includeHo Chi Minh MausoleumHo Chi Minh Mausoleum is the historic place whererespected Uncle Ho read the Vietnam Manifesto on 2September, 1945. There are always two guardsmen dressedin white uniforms standing at the main entrance.

Thang Long water puppet theatre Traditional legends & historical tales are among theenchanting puppet plays performed at this popular theatre.

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Vietnam information25

Ideas of sites to visit in your free time cont’d:Temple of LiteratureThe Temple of Literature (Van Mieu - Quoc Tu Giam) is amust-see stop on any sightseeing tour of Hanoi. It's usuallypacked with visitors, but never so much that there isn't roomto stroll around.

West LakeWest Lake is a freshwater lake in the centre of Hanoi. With ashore length of 17 km (about 10.6 miles), this is the largestlake in the capital & a popular place for recreation with manysurrounding gardens, hotels & villas. The lake was createdfrom a curved part of the Red River & appeared in severalVietnamese legends. One legend suggests that West Lakewas shaped after the battle between Lac Long Quan & anight-tail fox spirit, which is why the lake was once called"Fox Corpse Swamp". A small part of West Lake is dividedby Thanh Nien Road to form Truc Bach Lake.

Halong BayMore then 3,000 limestone islands rise from the turquoisewaters of Ha Long Bay, 160km from Hanoi. Declared a WorldHeritage Site by UNESCO in 1994, Halong Bay is anaturalist’s dream. Sculpted into strange shapes by the wind& weather, the islands hide deserted beaches, manymagnificent caves & hidden lagoons that may only bereached by chinks in the cliffs that are revealed at low tide.

SapaSet high in Vietnam’s northeast mountains, Sapa offersspectacular views of jagged mountain ridges, terraced ricepaddies & green valleys inhabited by people of various hilltribes, all of whom congregate in Sapa’s colourful market.Each group has its own distinctive style of dress. Sapa isbecoming a bit of a Mecca for tourists.

Hoi AnSet near the coast in central Vietnam, from the 16th to 19thcenturies the riverside town of Hoi An once drew merchantsfrom as far afield as Japan, India, Indonesia & Europe whobought the area’s silk, spices & porcelain. A Japanese district& a Chinese quarter were built, to be later joined by a Frenchdistrict. What makes Hoi An remarkable today is that its towncentre has been beautifully preserved, the streets still linedwith old tile-roofed shop-houses, shady pagodas & colourfulcommunal halls. Declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO,this little town is a living museum.

HueWhile imperial rule ended almost 6 decades ago, the centralcity of Hue still bears the marks of its royal past. From 1802to 1945 Hue was home to 13 Nguyen emperors, whosepalaces & tombs provide fascinating glimpses into theluxurious & secretive world of the court.

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Vietnam informationHue cont’d:Visitors can explore the red-lacquered pavilions of theCitadel, take an evening boat cruise on the Perfume River, orfeast on delicacies once served in the royal palaces.

Nha TrangLocated in central Vietnam, the sun-washed town of NhaTrang hugs a 7km long stretch of golden sand, making thisthe perfect place to get a dose of sun, surf & fresh seafood.Clear blue seas dotted with offshore islands offer the chanceto dive, fish & snorkel, while the town itself is home to someinteresting sites, including a massive white Buddha statue &a cluster of Cham towers built between the 7th & 12thcenturies. You can even try the amazing mineral mud bathswarmed by natural hot springs.

Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)Renamed Ho Chi Minh City in 1975, this is Vietnam’sbusiness hub, a busy city that never stops. You’ll find greatnightlife & some of the best shopping in Southeast Asia inthis vibrant, fast-changing city.

Other ideas of sites to visit in Ho Chi Minh City includeVietnam History MuseumThis collection of historical treasures & artifacts is one of thefew Vietnamese museums with helpful English explanationsto make sure you get your way around the museum easily.

Ho Chi Minh City Museum Once known as the Revolutionary Museum, it was renamedHo Chi Minh City Museum that displays the history of Ho ChiMinh City.. An attractive building where many couples chooseto take their wedding photos.

Cu Chi TunnelsSituated about 75 km from Ho Chi Minh City, Cu Chi Tunnelsis best known for its place during the Vietnam War. Cu ChiTunnels is a network of underground tunnels which reach atotal length of 250 km & enabled resistance fighters to movearound unobserved. Visitors can go down into a section ofthe tunnels which have been maintained.

Cao Dai Temple - United Colors of ReligionJust outside Tay Nihn & 60 miles northwest of Ho Chi MinhCity is the Great Temple or Holy See, the center of theintriguing Cao Dai sect. Cao Dai is a syncretistic Vietnamesereligious movement that incorporates aspects of Buddhism,Taoism, Confucianism & even Catholicism. The Cao Dai Temple (as it is more commonly known) wasbegun in 1933 in a unique architectural style that reflects itsblended traditions. Most people choose to visit on a day tripfrom Ho Chi Minh City.

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Thailand informationVietnam information cont’d:Mekong DeltaLife in Vietnam’s agrarian heartland still unfolds as it has forcenturies, as farmers cultivate paddy fields, tend to theirorchards of tropical fruit & fish in the rivers & canals thatcriss-cross this fertile plain. You can explore the region’smyriad waterways by boat, watch rare storks & Sarus cranes& visit traditional floating markets.

Tourist informationAlthough your Tour Manager will be able to fill you in on ideas ofways to spend your free time, if you require any TourismInformation Centres in the cities you’re visiting in Vietnam,your Tour Manager will be able to help if necessary.

Thailand informationCurrency: Thai Baht (THB)Language: ThaiCountry Code: +66Climate: Due to its long north-south span, Thailand’s climateis very diverse. While temperature differences in Bangkok areslight (highs around 38C or 95F in April & lows of 32C or 88Fin January), it can drop down to 13C in Chiang Mai in thewinter. Northern, north-eastern & central Thailand have 3seasons: the rainy season lasts from July - November; thecool season runs from November - mid-February; & the hotseason from March - June. Southern Thailand has only twoseasons: wet in the summer & dry in the winter. As a generalrule, the farther south you go, the shorter the dry season.

Bangkok departure pointViengtai Hotel42 Rambuttri RoadBangrak, Bangkok, 10500, ThailandTel: +66 (2) 280 5434 Fax: +66 (2) 281 8153Website: http://www.viengtai.co.th/en

How to get thereBangkok’s Suvarnabhumi International Airport is 30 km from theViengtai Hotel, or approximately 50 minutes’ drive.An Airport Express Bus is available from 5:00am to 12:00pm &costs 150 Baht. The Airport Express counter is on level 1 nearentrance 8. Taxis are also available from level 1.

Useful informationMobile phonesThailand has two mobile phone networks: GSM & NMT 900MHz.

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Thailand informationUseful information cont’d:Public phonesInternational calling cards called Thai Cards, come indenominations of 300 Baht & 500 Baht & are available atairports, post offices & shops in tourist centres.

Getting aroundThe great thing about travelling in Thailand, is that there area variety of ways to get around. From tuk tuks & rickshaws,to taxis, the trains or even the Skyrail in Bangkok, there’s heapsof variety. When on free days in cities, ask your Tour Managerfor the best ways to get to the places you want to visit.

Ideas of sites to visit in your free timeBangkokWith towering skyscrapers pressed up against Chinese shop-houses & brand-new Mercedes squeezing past vendors withpushcarts, this is a city of sharp contrasts. See the dazzlingRoyal Palace & the city’s countless pagodas, while shopperscould spend weeks sifting through Bangkok’s many malls &open-air markets.Dining options are varied; whether you’re eating French cuisinein a plush hotel restaurant or sampling fried crickets on the sideof the road, prepare to have all of your senses engaged. This isthe place to eat, drink & be merry.

Other ideas of sites to visit in Bangkok includeFloating market & rose gardenThe Damnoen Saduak Floating Market, situated 110 km west ofBangkok, is a very attractive place for tourists to see the oldstyle, local & traditional way of selling & buying fruits,vegetables etc from small boats. You will also see traditionalThai houses plus the way residents in the area live & travel byboats. The tour includes a visit to Nakorn Pathom, site of thehighest Chedi in Thailand called “Phra Patom Chedi” which isthe largest pagoda in Southeast Asia.

River KwaiTravel to Kanchanaburi, site of the infamous bridge over theRiver Kwai. Known as the “Death Railway” & built during WorldWar II by prisoners of war, take a visit to the war cemeterybefore crossing the bridge in the train. After lunch visit thepoignant war museum for another look at the local history.

Chiang MaiSurrounded by hills, Chiang Mai offers both prettysurroundings & architecture. Enclosed by a moat & crumblingwalls, the old city features great cafes & shops. An importantBuddhist centre since the 14th century, Chiang Mai is hometo more than 300 temples.

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Thailand informationChiang Rai cont’d:Many visitors come here to attend meditation retreats, massageclasses or yoga lessons. It is also a centre of handicraftproduction, with a long history of silverwork, woodcarving,pottery-making & weaving. Not to be missed is the NightBazaar, a series of covered markets, shops & stalls that offerthe best selection of handicrafts in Thailand.Visitors can trek on foot or by elephant through the region’shills, river raft down jungle rivers & meet the residents ofisolated ethnic minority villages.

Chiang RaiThe provincial capital of Thailand’s northernmost province,Chiang Rai, is a good base from which to explore the GoldenTriangle, the remote area where Myanmar, Thailand & Laosmeet. Mountains form a natural border between Thailand &Myanmar, while the mighty Mekong River divides Thailandfrom Laos. Populated by diverse hill tribes, this region haslong been associated with the opium trade, although poppyfields have now given way to vegetable plots.

PhuketLocated off Thailand’s west coast in the Andaman Sea,Phuket is the largest island in Thailand with an area of 810square kilometres. The coastal scenery is magnificent, withtropical rainforests, steep limestone cliffs, rocky beaches &picture-postcard beaches of soft golden sand. Inland laycoconut, pineapple, cashew nut & rubber plantations. Clearwater & colourful coral reefs make this area the most populardive spot in Thailand.

Ko SamuiLying off Thailand’s east coast in the Gulf of Thailand,Ko Samui offers everything you could want in a beach retreat:white sand beaches, coconut palms, fresh seafood & clearwater. With an area of 247km2, Ko Samui is the largest island inan archipelago of around 80 islands. The nearby Ko Pha-Ngan& Ko Tao also offer many beach resorts & great diving. LikePhuket, Ko Samui attracts many visitors yet has plenty out-of-the-way spots for those wishing to get away from it all.

Tourist informationAlthough your Tour Manager will be able to fill you in on ideasof ways to spend your free time, if you require any TourismInformation Centres in the cities you’re visiting in Thailand,your Tour Manager will be able to help if necessary.

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Cambodia informationCambodia informationCurrency: Riel (KHR)Language: KhmerCountry Code: +855Climate: Two monsoons dictate Cambodia’s climate. FromNovember to April, a north-eastern monsoon brings cool airbut little rain, while a south-western monsoon, which occursfrom May to October, causes heavy winds & rain. During thesummer rainy season rains tend to take place in thelate afternoons.

Siem Reap End PointCasa Angkor Hotel

Oum Chhay/Oum Khun Street

Mondul 1, Svay Dangkum commune, Siem Reap, Cambodia

Tel: +855 6396 3658 Fax: +855 6396 3657

Website: www.visit-mekong.com/casa-angkor-hotel

How to get there Siem Reap’s small airport is 6km from town & only a short drivefrom the Casa Angkor Hotel. Best option is to book a taxi orprivate car transfer to the airport. Prices start at $US5.

Useful informationMobile phonesCambodia uses a GSM mobile phone network & at presentpre-paid SIMs are only available to Cambodian nationals orforeigners with a work permit.

Getting aroundThe great thing about travelling in Asia, is that there are avariety of ways to get around in your free time. From tuk tuks& rickshaws, to taxis & busses there’s heaps of variety.When on free days in cities, ask your Tour Manager for thebest ways to get to the places you want to visit.

Ideas of sites to visit in your free timePhnom PenhCambodia’s capital for the most of the last 6 centuries,Phnom Penh retains a rather dusty, small town feel, withcrumbling French colonial buildings, sprawling Wats (as thepagodas are known here) & the imposing Royal Palace.Phnom Penh is also where the well-known memorials &museums of the Khmer Rouge atrocities are located,including Tuol Sleng.

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Laos informationCambodia information cont’d:Siem ReapBuilt between seven & eleven centuries ago, the temples –about 100 of which are still standing – were devoted toBuddha & Hindu deities. Within the fortified city of AngkorThom lies The Bayon, the third tier of which is lined by morethan 200 huge, carved faces that stare down from 54 towers.Other highlights include the Buddhist temple of Ta Prohm,which looks just as it did when French explorers stumbledupon it in the 1860s & Angkor Wat, a vast temple complexdedicated to Vishnu in the early 12th Century.

Tourist informationAlthough your Tour Manager will be able to fill you in on ideasof ways to spend your free time, if you require any TourismInformation Centres in the cities you’re visiting in Cambodia,your Tour Manager will be able to help if necessary.

Laos informationCurrency: Kip (LAK)Language: LaoCountry Code: +856Climate: Laos has two seasons. The rainy season runs fromMay to October & the dry season from November to April.Most rain falls in the south.

For the most part, Laos is hot, although there is a good dealof fluctuation between summer & winter temperatures athigher elevations. The capital, Vientiane, ranges from themid-30sC (mid-80s F) in April to the upper- 20sC (mid-70s F)in January. In the mountains temperatures can plummet tonear freezing in December and January.During February & March local people burn the fields &forests to prepare for the annual crops, so during this timeLaos is typically hot & smoky.

Useful informationMobile phonesLaos uses a GSM mobile phone network. It is easy to purchasea pre-paid SIM card in Laos – just make sure your phone isunlocked to accept SIMs from other networks, or buy anotherhandset. Handsets are cheaper in Thailand & Vietnam.

Getting aroundThe great thing about travelling in Asia, is that there are avariety of ways to get around in your free time. From tuk tuks& rickshaws, to taxis & busses there’s heaps of variety. Whenon free days in cities, ask your Tour Manager for the bestways to get to the places you want to visit.

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Laos informationIdeas of sites to visit in your free timeVientianeSet along a bend in the Mekong River, Laos’ capital is a perfectspot to chill out & relax. You’ll find some beautiful old Wats toexplore, a large market that holds the best selection of hand-woven textiles in the country, a variety of good restaurantsserving an international mix of cuisine & pleasant riverside barsat which to sip a beer & enjoy the sunset. This is a lovely spotto recover from the rigours of travel.

Vang ViengFormerly a pit stop between Vientiane & Luang Prabang, nowVang Vieng has became a destination for those keen to enjoyeco tours, trekking, caving & rock climbing activities. Themain attraction is the countryside & intricate rock formationsriddled with caves, although the laid-back town is popularwith backpackers for its social cafes & bars.

Luang PrabangThe site of Laos’ former royal capital, the little town of LuangPrabang is a gem. Nestled in an elbow of the Mekong Riversurrounded by tree clad mountains, this remote northerntown has long been Laos’ religious centre.You’ll find dozens of historic temples, lovely French-builtvillas & streets lined with charming old shop-houses. With itsmain hall inlaid with a dazzling mosaic of cut glass the RoyalPalace is well worth a visit, as are the Pak Ou caves, aBuddhist cave shrine some distance up river.

Xiengkhoang (‘Plain of Jars’)While there are many theories, nobody really knows whyhundreds of huge stone jars are scattered across several siteson a barren Laotian plain. Carved from solid rock, most of thecontainers weigh from 600kg to one tonne apiece; the largestweighs six tonnes. The jars are said to be 2,000 years old butagain, nobody knows for sure. Were they sarcophagi, waterjars, rice stores? Scientists continue to debate this intriguingfind; other visitors just marvel at these mysterious relics.

PakseSet on the Mekong River, the southern town of Paksefeatures French colonial architecture & a colourful marketstocked with fresh produce grown in the nearby BolavenPlateau, a highland region inhabited by a number of ethnicminority groups. Pakse is also the jumping off point for a visitto Wat Phu, an exquisite, Angkor-era temple complex builtbetween the 6th & 13th centuries. Even the most temple-weary visitor can’t help but be captivated by the mesmerisingbeauty of these lonely ruins.

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My notes33

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Worldwide officesAUSTRALIA

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Bondi Junction, NSW 2022Telephone: +61 (0) 2 9511 2200

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UNITED KINGDOMWells House, 15 Elmfield Road

Bromley, Kent, BR1 1LSTelephone: +44 (0) 20 8225 4200

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EUROPE26. Chemin de Joinville,

Case Postale 163, 1216 Cointrin (GE)Switzerland

Telephone: +41 (0) 22 929 [email protected]

NEW ZEALAND2nd Floor, 15-17 Day Street

Newton, AucklandTelephone: + 64 (0) 9 300 1601

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AMERICA801 East Katella Avenue, 3rd Floor

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Toronto, ON M3B 1S9,Telephone: +1 416 932 9377

[email protected]

SOUTH AFRICA6 Hood AvenueRosebank 2196Johannesburg

Telephone: +27 11 280 [email protected]

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China Square Central (Nanking Row),#02-28/29, Singapore 048660

Telephone: +65 6337 [email protected]

contiki.comIf you choose to write to Contiki via the Internet, please provide

your home address so we are able to reply to you in writing.

The information in this booklet was, to the best of our knowledge,correct at the time of going to print but we cannot be held

responsible for any subsequent changes to the contents of it.Edition 20010/2011

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