HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO FLY THERE?
Most carriers have connections - Malaysia Airlines (MH) over Kuala Lumpur and Singapore Airlines (SQ) over Singapore; and will, in some instances, require overnight stops. We recommend you take advantage of these stops and stay a few days at the relevant transfer point. Fiesta Holidays can provide cost-effective stopover arrangements
MH: Ex Perth approximately 8:30 hours (Hanoi), 7:05 hours (Ho Chi Minh), 7:15 hours (Phnom Penh & Siem Reap); Ex Sydney/Melbourne/Brisbane approximately 11:45 hours (Hanoi), 10:20 hours (Ho Chi Minh), 10:30 hours (Phnom Penh & Siem Reap) - plus overnight stay/transit time as may be required.
SQ: Ex Perth approximately 8:50 hours (Hanoi), 7:25 hours (Ho Chi Minh), 7:30 hours (Phnom Penh & Siem Reap); Ex Sydney/Melbourne/Brisbane approximately 11:45 hours (Hanoi), 10:20 hours (Ho Chi Minh), 10:35 hours (Phnom Penh & Siem Reap) - plus transit time as may be required.
WILL WE BE MET AND TRANSFERRED?
Yes, where transfers have been included in your arrangements, our operator will have their representative meet you on arrival and transfer you to your hotel.
TRANSFER TIME
Varies, depending on arrival airport, chosen hotel & traffic conditions. Approximate transfer times: Hanoi (45 mins) Ho Chi Minh (30 mins) Phnom Penh & Siem Reap (30 mins)
WHAT ARE THE FORMALITIES & RESTRICTIONS?
An entry visa to both Vietnam & Cambodia is currently required for Australian Passport holders. Check with your travel agent for application procedures and cost.
AIRPORT DEPARTURE TAXES
Currently there are departure taxes to be paid in cash when leaving both Vietnam & Cambodia. This payment can be made in USD or local currency - amounts to be checked at time of travel.
OFFICIAL LANGUAGE/S
In Vietnam, Vietnamese is the official language whilst English, French, Japanese and German are also widely spoken. In Cambodia the local language is Khmer or Cambodian.
SEASONS
Vietnam & Cambodia have a tropical monsoon climate with wet and dry seasons. This is a complicated & diverse weather pattern, so there is no one particular season to recommend as the "best time" to travel. Overall, November to April could be suggested as favourable months to travel when visiting both countries.
FOOD
A variety of Asian cuisine, includes: Vietnamese, Thai, Indian & French. Fresh Seafood is plentiful with lots of local fruits and vegetables. International cuisine available at most hotels. Buffet breakfasts provided by all hotels ranging from 3* to 5*.
DRINKING WATER
It is recommended you drink bottled water only. Some hotels provide complimentary bottles each day and they are inexpensive to purchase at local shops. Boiled drinks such as coffee & tea are fine. Ice is usually OK at restaurants, but should be treated with care.
TRANSPORT
Sightseeing is readily available through our operator. Otherwise public transport; local bus, taxi's, motor bikes and rickshaw/cyclo hire (be sure to fix the price prior to departure) are available.
WHAT IS THE DRESS CODE?
Cool and casual clothing. When visiting temples and religious sites, you will need to cover shoulders as a sign of respect. (Avoid wearing shorts or sleeveless tops). Shoes must be removed inside most Buddhist temples, but this is not universal so look to see what others do. If shoes are piled up outside the doorway, you should pay heed.
WHAT IS THERE TO SHOP FOR?
Bargaining is a way of life, but remember to do so in a friendly manner & you will achieve better results. Purchase silk products, bags, wooden artifacts, quality hand embroidery, marble & stone carvings, lacquer ware, local scene paintings, tailor made clothes & hand made shoes - the list is endless!
TELECOMMUNICATION SERVICES
International charges from Vietnam & Cambodia are among the highest in the world, and hotels usually add a surcharge on top of this. It is best to make quick calls or have the other party call you back. Local phone cards are recommended and can be purchased on arrival in both countries. Calls can be made from post offices in major cities.
MEDICAL FACILITIES
Over the counter prescription drugs are widely available in major cities, but best to bring frequently used medicines from home. A basic first aid kit would be recommended.
MONEY EXCHANGE AND CURRENCY
Vietnam local currency is Dong; Cambodia local currency is Riel. However, USD is sought after and widely accepted in both countries. A$ has limited acceptance at some hotels and major city stores. Most credit cards are readily accepted at hotels & large stores. ATM's are available in Vietnam, but not in Cambodia.
TIPPING
Take a supply of small denomination US dollar notes ($1 & $5). A tip of USD1.00 should suffice for porters, local guides, boat crew etc. It is also considered proper to make a small donation after visiting a pagoda - most have contribution boxes for this purpose.
POWER SUPPLY
220 volts @ AC 50 cycles. Adaptors will be required as plugs are 2 prong & are different from Australian varieties, we recommend a multi socket adaptor.
TAKE ALONG
Hat, sunscreen, books and insect repellant. Recommended to bring film, however extra supplies can be purchased in major cities.
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