5 Things to Know in Traveling in Southeast Asia
Southeast Asia has been one of the top tourists’ destinations for its beautiful landscape and culturally rich countries. Many backpackers find it is the ideal destination for its crystal-clear seas, silver beaches, the mysterious rain forests and offering a sense of adventure. There are thousands of islands you can choose, explore the jungles and enjoy the sunshine. It is also one of the most inexpensive travel destinations in the world so you don’t have to worry about burning your cash.
Prepare yourself well
Prior to visiting the places in Southeast Asia, I recommend that you should prepare well and get the best information to avoid unnecessary incidents as to abide with different laws and traditions. The following tips are some notes that you need to know:
You can almost bargain everything
Shopping in Southeast Asian countries can be quite interesting experience as you can almost bargain everything. Don’t be afraid to ask for a lower price and use your bargaining skill to haggle. Some vendors at stalls and shops do not put the price tags and when you ask for one, it can be quite expensive as they hope you will ask about 10 – 20 percents lower. Try to negotiate up to half the price as you will find other vendors selling the same thing.
Watch your belongings
Take good care of your personal belongings, your handbags, pocket, purse and purchased items close to you and keep an eye on your possessions. Pickpocket and muggings can happen everywhere whether you are walking down the street or driving a motorbike. Just bring along the necessary things when you leave the hotel.
Transportation
The easiest and cheapest way to get around Southeast Asia is by bus although the roads between many destinations are not well enough to travel. Hire a local taxi when you arrive in one country to take you everywhere you want to go. Your driver can also be your tour guide. If you find a good taxi driver that you can trust, ask for his cell phone so you can call him directly next time you need to travel around.
Food
Food is very cheap and delicious in Southeast Asia especially the local food. However, you should be cautious before eating anything, check if there are many expatriates eating in the stalls or the restaurants.
Accommodation
Accommodation in Southeast Asia is pretty cheap. You can find rooms for only US$4-5 per night in Cambodia and Laos. In Thailand, you will get US $8-15. In Vietnam, it’s about US$7-9. In Indonesia, expect to pay between US$10-12
Prepare yourself well
Prior to visiting the places in Southeast Asia, I recommend that you should prepare well and get the best information to avoid unnecessary incidents as to abide with different laws and traditions. The following tips are some notes that you need to know:
You can almost bargain everything
Shopping in Southeast Asian countries can be quite interesting experience as you can almost bargain everything. Don’t be afraid to ask for a lower price and use your bargaining skill to haggle. Some vendors at stalls and shops do not put the price tags and when you ask for one, it can be quite expensive as they hope you will ask about 10 – 20 percents lower. Try to negotiate up to half the price as you will find other vendors selling the same thing.
Watch your belongings
Take good care of your personal belongings, your handbags, pocket, purse and purchased items close to you and keep an eye on your possessions. Pickpocket and muggings can happen everywhere whether you are walking down the street or driving a motorbike. Just bring along the necessary things when you leave the hotel.
Transportation
The easiest and cheapest way to get around Southeast Asia is by bus although the roads between many destinations are not well enough to travel. Hire a local taxi when you arrive in one country to take you everywhere you want to go. Your driver can also be your tour guide. If you find a good taxi driver that you can trust, ask for his cell phone so you can call him directly next time you need to travel around.
Food
Food is very cheap and delicious in Southeast Asia especially the local food. However, you should be cautious before eating anything, check if there are many expatriates eating in the stalls or the restaurants.
Accommodation
Accommodation in Southeast Asia is pretty cheap. You can find rooms for only US$4-5 per night in Cambodia and Laos. In Thailand, you will get US $8-15. In Vietnam, it’s about US$7-9. In Indonesia, expect to pay between US$10-12
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