Southeast Asia Travel Secrets

Southeast Asia is a diverse and fascinating region, offering everything from gorgeous beaches to delectable cuisine, low travel expenses and convenient flight connections. Here are some essential things to know before travelling to Southeast Asia:

- Best time to visit: The best time to travel to Southeast Asia is from November to April when temperatures are milder, although this varies by region. For example, the dry season in Indonesia is from April to October, while the rainy season is from December to February.

- Transportation: The easiest and cheapest way to travel around Southeast Asia is by bus. Major cities generally have subway systems, but buses and shared taxis are more common. Tuk-tuks are also available and require a bit of haggling.

- Accommodation: Accommodation in Southeast Asia is cheap, ranging from hostels to budget guesthouses and luxury hotels.

- Food: Street food is the most popular and cheapest food option in Southeast Asia, with meals costing around $1-5 USD. Rice and noodles are central to the region's cuisine, along with pork, chicken, fish and seafood.

- Health and safety: Stay vigilant against petty theft and common scams, such as the tuk-tuk or motorbike rental scam. Always get travel insurance and necessary vaccinations before your trip.

- Culture: Dress modestly when visiting temples and other religious sites, covering your knees and shoulders. Learn some basic phrases in the local language and be respectful of cultural differences.

- Money: Carry cash as some street vendors, taxi drivers and smaller restaurants may not accept cards. Be smart about currency exchange and avoid exchanging money with individuals or at hotels, as they often offer poor rates.

Pack light, breathable clothing

When travelling to Southeast Asia, it is important to pack light, breathable clothing. The weather in Southeast Asia is hot and humid, so you will want to wear clothing that will keep you cool. Lightweight clothing will also take up less room in your suitcase.

You will likely be wearing light clothing every day, so it is a good idea to pack a few extra outfits to account for sweat and dirt. White clothing, in particular, will not stay white for long. It is also worth noting that you will probably only need summer clothing, with perhaps a few warmer pieces for the evenings or air-conditioned spaces.

To stay cool, opt for loose-fitting clothing that does not stick to your body. Breathable, breezy fabrics will help you stay comfortable in the heat. If you plan to visit temples, remember to pack clothing that covers your shoulders and knees. A light wrap or scarf can be useful for this purpose.

In terms of specific items, you may want to pack t-shirts, vests, long-sleeved shirts, shorts, lightweight trousers, skirts, and dresses. These items will help you stay cool while still covering your skin if you prefer. Sandals or flip-flops are also a good choice for footwear, as they are comfortable and allow your feet to breathe.

By packing light, breathable clothing, you will be prepared for the warm weather in Southeast Asia and will have more space in your luggage for other essentials.

Get travel insurance

Getting travel insurance is always a good idea, especially when travelling to Southeast Asia. Here are some reasons why:

Healthcare and Medical Emergencies

Basic healthcare in Southeast Asia may be affordable, but the quality of care varies greatly between countries and facilities. While Thailand, Singapore, and Malaysia have a higher standard of care, often in private hospitals, countries like Cambodia and Burma have lower standards, mainly in public hospitals. Medical bills for extended hospital stays can quickly add up to tens of thousands of dollars. Travel insurance can provide financial protection in such situations.

Adventure Activities

Southeast Asia trips often include adventurous activities such as trekking, scuba diving, and motorbiking. These activities come with inherent risks, and having travel insurance ensures you're covered in case of accidents or injuries.

Vaccinations and Preventive Measures

Before travelling to Southeast Asia, it's important to get vaccinated against diseases common in the region, such as malaria, dengue fever, and typhoid. Travel insurance can help cover the costs of these vaccinations and any necessary preventive medications.

Gastrointestinal Issues

Eating local food is an essential part of experiencing Southeast Asian culture, but it can also lead to gastrointestinal problems like "Bali belly." Travel insurance can provide coverage for medical expenses related to foodborne illnesses or other gastro issues.

Theft and Loss

Travel insurance can provide coverage for lost or stolen luggage and personal items. This is particularly important in Southeast Asia, where theft and bag-snatching can occur. It's recommended to keep valuables secure and leave important documents and passports in a hotel safe.

Trip Cancellation and Delays

Travel insurance can provide financial protection if you need to cancel or delay your trip due to unforeseen circumstances, such as illness, bereavement, or travel disruptions. This coverage can include compensation for additional accommodation and travel expenses.

Learn some local phrases

Learning some local phrases is always a good idea when travelling to a new place, and this is especially true when travelling to Southeast Asia, where most locals don't speak English. Knowing a few phrases in the local language will enhance your experience and show that you appreciate the local culture.

Thai

• Hello: sà-wà-t-dee
• How are you?: Khun Sabai Der Mai Krup Dee
• What's your name?: Khun Chue A-rai Krup?
• My name is...: Nuu Chu (feminine); Pŏm Chêu (masculine)
• I'm from...: Pom Ma Jaak Prathet (Country) Krup
• Nice to meet you: Dee Jai Ti Dai Pob Khun Krup
• Good morning: A-roon Sawat Krup
• Good evening: Sa Wat Dee Torn Yen Krup
• Goodbye: báai baai or La Gon Chock Dee Krup
• I don't understand: Kor-tod Krup Pom Mai Khao Jai Krup
• Sorry: Tong Kor A-pai Dhouy Krup
• Please speak more slowly: Pood Cha Cha Noi Krup
• Do you speak English?: Khun Pood Pasa Ang Krit Dai Mai Krup?
• I don't speak Thai: Pom Pood Thai Mai Dai Krup
• How much is this?: Ra Ka Thow Rai Krup?
• Thank you: Khop Khun Krup
• Call the police!: Pom Tong Karn Kawam Chouy Luare

Vietnamese

• Hello!: Xin chào! / Chào bạn
• Goodbye: Xin chào! / Chào bạn
• How are you?: Bạn có khỏe không?
• What's your name?: Bạn tên gì?
• My name is...: Tôi tên là...
• I'm from...: Tôi đến từ...
• Nice to meet you: Rất vui được gặp bạn
• Good morning: chào buổi sáng
• Good evening: chào buổi tối
• I don't understand: Tôi không hiểu
• Please speak more slowly: Xin bạn hãy nói chậm lại
• Do you speak English?: Bạn có nói được tiếng Anh không?
• I don't speak Vietnamese: Tôi không nói được tiếng Việt
• How much is this?: Bao nhiêu?
• Thank you: Cám ơn
• Can you help me?: Xin bạn giúp tôi được không?
• Call the police!: Xin gọi cảnh sát
• Stop!: Dừng lại

Khmer

• Hello!: joohm ree-up soo-a
• Goodbye: joohm ree-up lea [formal] / lee-hai [informal]
• How are you?: sok-sa bai jee-a tay?
• What's your name?: laok ch’moo-ah a-vwai?
• My name is...: k’nyom ch’moo-ah...
• I'm from...: khynŭm mô pi
• Nice to meet you: rikreay del ban chuob anak
• Good morning: ârŭn suŏ sdei
• Good evening: tĭvéa suŏ sdei
• I don't understand: khnhom min yl pi
• Please speak more slowly: soam ni-yay yeut-yeut
• Do you speak English?: ta neak nee-yay pee-a-sah ong-klay tay?
• I don't speak Khmer: khnhom min chehniyeay pheasaeakhmer
• How much is this?: néh thley bôméan?
• Help me!: joo-ay k’nyom!
• Call the police!: chuŏy hau bolĭsâ môk!

Be aware of scams

While Southeast Asia is generally a safe place for travellers, it is still home to a variety of scams that target tourists. Here are some common scams to be aware of when travelling to Southeast Asia:

The Money Exchange Scam

This scam is typical in countries whose currency value has dropped, such as Vietnam and Indonesia. You go to a money exchange booth and swap a few hundred dollars for several million of the local currency. You and the teller count the money together, but a few hours later, you realise you have less money than you should. To avoid this scam, count your money twice after receiving it.

Kids Begging for Money or Milk

Children in Southeast Asia are often adorable and harmless-looking, but some have been trained to rob people from a young age. They might pickpocket you or ask for milk and food, making you feel sorry for them and prompting you to buy them something from a store. However, they then return what you bought to the market and share the profit with the shop owner. Always be cautious around kids and never leave your valuables unattended.

The Scooter Thief

This scam is common in cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. Thieves on scooters will snatch your phone or bag as they pass by, and they are much faster than you, making it nearly impossible to catch them. Hold your bag firmly and avoid speaking on your phone when walking on busy roads.

The Ping-Pong Show Scam

In Bangkok's red-light districts, people will offer you crazy deals to lure you into their ping-pong shows. They might say there is no entrance fee, and you only need to pay for your drinks. However, when you ask for the bill, you find that it is much higher than expected. Refuse these offers, and if you want to see a show, go to a reputable place where you will pay a similar amount but get your money's worth.

Tourist Information Offices Scam

In Southeast Asia, the "tourist information" label does not hold much value, as many scammers operate under this name. They might tell you that a place you want to visit is closed or not included on their tours, but this is not always true. Do your research before visiting a place so you know whether you are being ripped off.

The Closed Monument Scam

Tuk-tuk drivers might tell you that a monument on your list is closed or that you are not dressed appropriately to enter. They will then offer to take you to better places to visit, such as their friend's shops or restaurants, where they will earn a commission from anything you buy. Do not believe the drivers unless you have seen for yourself that the monument is closed.

Be respectful of local customs and dress codes

When travelling to Southeast Asia, it's important to be respectful of local customs and dress codes. While each country and region has its own unique social customs and traditions, there are some underlying rules that unite them. Following these rules will not only show respect for the local people, but you will also earn their respect in return, leading to a more genuine and authentic experience of the place you are exploring.

Greeting Customs

You will immediately note the elegance of a greeting in Southeast Asia—a bow with a prayer-like hand gesture. Called a 'wai' in Thailand, a 'nop' in Laos, and a 'sampeah' in Cambodia, it is a sign of respect and greeting that you will find across much of the region. The higher the hands and the deeper the bow, the more respect is being shown. You don't need to return the greeting exactly, but a nod will be sufficient. This small gesture sums up Southeast Asia's social customs of respect and good manners.

Saving Face

In Asia, it is important to follow the notion of 'saving face' when it comes to social interactions. This means not causing someone embarrassment or making them lose dignity or reputation in front of others. Shouting or arguing with a local will cause them to lose face and will only make the situation worse. Keep calm, be patient, and be willing to compromise to reach a resolution that keeps everyone happy.

Dress Codes

Across Southeast Asia, local people dress conservatively and neatly. In some places, many people still wear traditional garments. When deciding what to wear, follow the lead of the locals. Wear trousers, shorts, or skirts that reach the knee, and tops that cover the shoulders. Dressing neatly will also help you gain the respect of the locals.

In places of worship, it is important to dress modestly, covering your shoulders, legs, and, in some cases, your arms and ankles. This applies to both men and women. Some temples may provide sarongs, robes, and head coverings for a small fee. Clothes that are figure-hugging or revealing are generally frowned upon, especially in countries such as Malaysia, where Islamic traditions are followed.

Temple Etiquette

When visiting temples, always remove your shoes before entering and avoid pointing the soles of your feet at worshippers or sacred objects. In Buddhist temples, never touch or climb on a Buddha statue and never pose for a picture with one. Women should not touch a monk or hand anything directly to a monk.

Other Customs

In Southeast Asia, the head is considered sacred, so you should never touch anyone on the head, even children. The same applies to statues, particularly those of Buddha. On the other hand, feet are considered unclean, so never point the soles of your feet at anyone or anything sacred.

Frequently asked questions