Liberated from years of war, occupation and isolation, the Vietnamese are focused firmly on the future and are revealed as charming and dynamic people. Influenced by both Chinese and French cultures, the people of Vietnam have maintained a strong sense of their own uniqueness, while at the same time embracing new outside influences. Travelers to Vietnam are moved by the warmth and hospitality that greet them.The natural beauty of Vietnam is another of the country's powerful attractions. From the Mekong Delta, the stunning coastline of central Vietnam, to the rugged mountains of the north and Halong Bay, Vietnam's beauty is inspirational. Join Jetabout Asia Vacations as we explore the amazing cities of Vietnam…from the bustle of Ho Chi Minh City to the historic merchant center of Hoi An, the former imperial capital Hue, and the colonial elegance of the capital Hanoi.
Vietnam Facts
Passports & Visas
A valid passport with at least six months validity and a visa are required to travel to Vietnam or Cambodia. Visitors must obtain a visa prior to arrival in Vietnam; Cambodian 30-day visas can be obtained upon arrival at the airport (passport photo needed).
Currency
The Vietnamese unit of currency is the Vietnam Dong (1USD = 15,900VND)
The Cambodian unit of currency is the Cambodian Riel (1USD = 4,000KHR)
U.S. Dollars and Thai Baht are widely accepted and considered the best choice whilst traveling in Cambodia. It is a good idea to carry a small amount of Riel as well.
Tipping
Vietnamese and Cambodians do not depend on tips or gratuities for their income and tips are not expected for normal service, even in restaurants and pubs. However, tipping in appreciation is at your discretion.
Climate
Vietnam and Cambodia are tropical environments, high in temperature and humidity.
Population:
+80 million
Capital City:
Hanoi
Language:
Vietnamese, English (widely spoken, especially in tourist areas), French, Chinese, Russian
Weather:
There are two distinguishable seasons. The cold season occurs from November to April and the hot season from May to October.
In the South -
The rainy season lasts from May to November, but showers are usually limited to brief bursts in the late afternoon. Average temperature is 80 degrees Fahrenheit. There is not a noticeable difference between the two seasons in the south of Vietnam.
Central Vietnam -
The driest season runs from June to October. Average annual temperature is 77 degrees Fahrenheit.
In the North -
Visitors to the north are often surprised by the region's distinct seasons; summers are hot and humid while winters are invigoratingly cool. Average temperature is 73 degrees Fahrenheit. During the cold/dry season, temperatures can drop down to 50 degrees Fahrenheit.
Safety:
Vietnam is a relatively safe country. Travelers to Ho Chi Minh City and to a lesser extent Hanoi should be conscious of pick pocketing and bag snatching. There is no risk posed to travelers by landmines or other residue of war.
Health:
Limited Western medical facilities are available in Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi. Outside the cities, medical facilities are very basic. We strongly advise that you consult your preferred doctor for the most up to date advice on the best health precautions at least one month prior to travel. Travel Insurance must be purchased as a condition of travel.
Departure Tax:
International departure tax is currently $US12pp for flights leaving Saigon, and $US14pp for flights leaving Hanoi. Domestic air taxes apply and range from 10,000 dong to 20,000 dong ($1-$2 USD) depending on the flight.
Public Holidays:
TET (Vietnamese New Year) is in late Jan-early Feb, according to the lunar calendar. Most businesses close for three days over this time. Vietnam National Day - September 2.
Electricity:
220w. Two-rounded pin standard Asian plugs are used in most parts of the country.
The temples of Angkor are without question among the most spectacular and stunning creations of humankind. From the awesome spires of Angkor Wat and the enchanting faces of Angkor Thom and the Bayon, to the extraordinary beauty and detail of the carvings at Banteay Srei, the magnificence and scale of the temples is without rival. Our journeys to Cambodia also take us to the remarkable Tonle Sap lake and its fishing communities, and to the faded colonial charm of Phnom Penh. A visit to Cambodia is a challenging experience - reconciling one of humankind's most magnificent creations, the temples of Angkor, with the tragedy of the country's recent past. Join Jetabout Asia Vacations for a moving experience in this extraordinary land.
Cambodia Facts
Population:
13 million
Capital City:
Phnom Penh
Language:
Khmer, English, French
Weather:
Cambodia's climate--like that of the rest of Southeast Asia--is dominated by the monsoons, which are known as tropical wet and dry because of the distinctly marked seasonal differences. The wet season runs from May to October, with many finding this a great time to visit Angkor in Siem Reap as the moats are full and the foliage lush. During December and January temperatures are cooler (around 85 degrees Fahrenheit) and it's unlikely to rain. From February onwards it starts getting pretty hot, April being the hottest with temperatures reaching up to 95 degrees Fahrenheit. Humidity is also extremely high at this time of year.
Safety:
Tourist areas in Cambodia are safe by world standards, but the usual common sense safety precautions should be adhered to. It is not safe to walk the streets of Phnom Penh at night as street lighting is poor and robbery is not uncommon. Avoid unknown areas, keep jewelry to a minimum and valuables in the hotel safe.
Health:
Medical facilities are basic throughout the country - even in the capital Phnom Penh. We recommend you contact a traveler's health clinic or your local doctor for the most up to date information on travelers' health considerations at least one month prior to travel. Travel Insurance must be purchased as a condition of travel.
Visas:
Getting your Cambodian visa is a simple and efficient process.Tourist visas can be obtained on arrival at Phnom Penh or Siem Reap airports for 25USD cash. You will also need one passport photo to accompany your visa application.
Money:
The official unit of currency in Cambodia is the riel. Us dollars are accepted everywhere and can be used instead of the local currency. Thai baht are also widely accepted. Both of these are easy to change, as are most other major currencies. It can be difficult to change travelers checks outside Phnom Penh & Siem Reap. Cash advances on credit cards are available in Phnom Penh & Siem Reap, but charges are high. Otherwise, there are no ATMs and credit cards are rarely accepted.
Departure Tax:
For International departure taxes, allow USD$15pp ex Siem Reap and USD$20pp ex Phnom Penh. Domestic taxes ex Siem Reap and Phnom Penh are USD$5pp.
