Southeast Asia Trifecta: Cambodia, Vietnam & Bangkok Vibes - 12 Days

Frequently asked questions

• What kind of accommodation can I expect on this trip?

  Accommodation will primarily be in multi-share hostels, typically with 6-8 people per room. You will have a choice of mixed-gender and female-only dorms, with available upgrades to twin-share rooms (same gender). Some exceptions may apply due to the unique nature of specific hostels chosen for local flavour.

• What meals are included in this trip?

  The tour includes 11 breakfasts, 2 lunches, and 3 dinners. Generally, other meals are not included to provide flexibility in choosing where, what, and with whom to eat. Included breakfasts are typically Asian style (noodles, congee, bread, eggs).

• What is the typical group size and age range for this tour?

  The maximum group size is 24, with an average of 16 travellers. The minimum age for this trip is 18 years, and the maximum age is 35 years.

• Who will be leading the group on this tour?

  All group trips are accompanied by a Chief Experience Officer (CEO) who helps manage the trip, provides information, suggests activities, and recommends local eateries. Local guides are also used for more specific knowledge in certain locations.

• What currencies will I need and how should I carry money?

  You will use Vietnamese Dong, US Dollar, Cambodian Riel, and Thai Baht. The best way to carry money is with debit cards for ATM withdrawals. It's recommended to have both Visa and Mastercard. Some USD cash is advisable for emergencies, but ensure notes are new and in good condition (newer than 2003, no tears/blemishes). Credit cards can be used in some upmarket restaurants and larger stores.

• How much emergency money should I bring?

  It is recommended to have access to at least an additional USD $200 (or equivalent) as an 'emergency' fund, in case circumstances outside of our control require a change to the planned route.

• Is tipping customary on this tour, and how much should I budget?

  Tipping service providers like waiters (approximately 10%) is customary in Asia and shows appreciation. For local guides and drivers, recommendations range from $1.5-$3.5 USD per person per day. For the Chief Experience Officer (CEO), a guideline of $20-25 USD per person per week is suggested at the end of the trip, but the amount is a personal preference.

• What modes of transportation are used during the tour?

  Transportation includes private vehicles, motorbikes, boats, ferries, walking, cyclo, tuk-tuks, and planes.

• Is there an extra cost for solo travelers?

  No, solo travellers are not required to pay more. Our group trips are designed for shared accommodation, and single travellers are paired in twin or multi-share rooms with someone of the same sex. There is no single supplement.

• Are there any health considerations I should know before traveling?

  Inoculations may be required, so it's essential to consult your travel doctor well before departure. It's recommended to carry a first aid kit, hand sanitizers, and any personal medical requirements. Our CEOs are prohibited from administering drugs. Pharmacies in Asia generally stock local versions of Western drugs, so bring full drug names if you need to purchase prescription medication.

• What are the general safety considerations for this trip?

  We strongly recommend using a neck wallet or money belt for passports, tickets, cash, and other valuables. Leave valuable jewellery at home. Many hotels have safety deposit boxes. A lock for luggage is recommended. When exploring during free time, especially at night, stay in small groups and consider using taxis. Your group leader may amend the itinerary for safety reasons. Swimming and water-based activities are at your own risk unless accompanied by a guide.

• Are there any specific warnings I should be aware of?

  Be cautious of pickpockets in city centers in Vietnam; carry only essentials and use a hidden money belt. In Bangkok, avoid buying gems unless you are knowledgeable, as gem scams are common and assistance cannot be provided if you fall victim.

• How should I dress to respect local customs during the tour?

  In Asia, dress standards are generally more conservative. We recommend packing loose, lightweight, long clothing to stay cool in the hot, humid climate. When visiting temples, mosques, or other holy sites in predominantly Buddhist, Hindu, and Muslim countries, please dress respectfully by covering your knees and shoulders, avoiding very short shorts/skirts and singlets/tank tops.

• What are the visa and entry requirements for the countries visited?

  All countries require a passport with at least 6 months validity. Visa requirements vary by nationality: Thailand: Most nationalities don't need a visa for stays of 30 days or less (available on arrival at Bangkok Airport if needed). For stays over 30 days, a tourist visa in advance is required. Only 15-day tourist visas are issued for overland entry. As of May 1st, 2025, a Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) must be completed online within 3 days of arrival via air, land, or sea. Vietnam: Visas must be arranged ahead of time (minimum 2 weeks processing) as they are not available upon arrival. Vietnamese E-Visas can be applied for online. Cambodia: Visas can be obtained in advance or on arrival (approx. $30 USD, requiring at least 2 passport photos). If entering via the Phnom Den border from Vietnam, only a visa on arrival is applicable (e-visa not supported for this border). For air arrivals, the Cambodia e-Arrival form must be completed online within 7 days of arrival. The e-system may not be available at land borders, where paper forms are used.

• Are international flights included in this trip?

  No, international flights are generally not included in the price of your tour. Please note that for the Siem Reap to Bangkok leg, due to current border closure, a flight replaces the land border crossing.

• What optional activities are available during the trip and what are their estimated costs?

  Optional activities include: Kampot: Rabbit Island Excursion, Kampot Pepper Farm Tour, Sunset Cruise, Cycle Tour, Tuk Tuk Tour (approx. 15USD per group). Phnom Penh: Tuol Sleng Museum (S-21 Prison) & Choeung Ek (Killing Fields) Half-Day Guided Tour (approx. 22-26USD per person), Silver Pagoda Visit (approx. 10USD per person), National Museum Visit (approx. 10USD per person). Angkor Wat: Guided Tour. Siem Reap: Tour Tonle Sap Floating Village Entrance Fee, Phare Circus.

• When can I do my laundry on this trip?

  Some of our hotels offer laundry facilities for a charge. There may be times when you need to do your own laundry, so we suggest bringing non-polluting/biodegradable soap.

• Does this tour combine with other trips?

  Yes, this tour combines with other Roamies tours. This means that staff and some travel companions may have been traveling together prior to Day 1 of your tour, and some may continue on another tour after this trip concludes.

• Are hotel rooms guaranteed to have windows in all cities?

  In some major cities in Vietnam and Thailand, many hotel rooms do not have windows.

• What is Planeterra and how does the tour support local communities?

  Planeterra International Foundation is a non-profit organization dedicated to creating a positive impact through travel by helping local communities generate income from tourism. They support community-owned businesses that empower Indigenous people, women, and youth, and protect the environment. The tour operator is Planeterra's largest corporate donor, covering all operating costs, ensuring 100% of donations directly benefit these projects. You can contribute to the 'Dollar-a-day Program' to support these initiatives.