Travellers' Tips

In order to avoid upsetting the authorities of any particular country, we have restricted the content of this section to general tips and guidelines. Our aim is to help you avoid some of the major pitfalls of travelling in south east Asia, though you should, of course, always be aware of the particular laws and customs of the countries in which you plan to stay.

The People
The peoples of south east Asia are generally helpful and smiley, but that can quickly change if you annoy them. It is considered bad manners to lose your temper and a smile will get you further than a snarl. The concept of 'face' is very important; so never show someone up, or belittle them. If you do they will take great exception and remember you for it. In addition, keep in mind that to the average worker in this part of the world you are extremely rich. Their monthly salary is likely to be less than $200.

Bureaucracy
Officialdom is confusing, with countless forms and back-up copies often required to get even the most simple thing done. But don't fight it, just get someone who knows the system to help you through the process. A little greasing of the wheels is often required, but be careful: do not assume that flashing cash will always solve the problem. It can make the situation worse. Instead, ask if there are any extra fees you can pay to get things done quicker, but be careful and take advice.

Immigration
Always check the visa requirements before you leave home. Turning up without a visa will often get you bumped off a flight, or refused entry at the other end. Immigration officers are picky the world over and like everything to be in order. If it is not, they may not always be helpful.

Police
The best advice is to avoid the police in this region. Most are corrupt and on the side of the locals. Many smaller crimes, especially traffic offences, are dealt with by on the spot fines. You can sometimes negotiate the fine down, but you will need to pay it and don't expect a receipt. Do not get involved in illegal activity, especially drugs. The jails would not be considered fit for animal habitation in Europe. In Thailand there is a tourist police force and you should always insist on their presence if you have a problem.

Security
As long as you are in main tourist areas violent crime is unlikely. But theft and fraud are quite common, so keep your wits about you. Most hotels have safety deposit boxes: so use them. Keep a photocopy of your passport with you and leave the passport in the safety box. Don't carry wads of cash, but, if you have to, avoid flashing it about. In any event, DO NOT use public transport when carrying valuables; use a taxi.
Avoid non-tourist areas and dark streets, and do not give money to beggars or street children. I know that sounds harsh but they are usually being used, often by a parent. In addition give one kid a little money and literally hundreds will appear out of the cracks in the ground to harass you.
Whatever you do avoid fights, especially with the locals. Local rules are that losing is not an option, so friends, knives and even guns may well be used to beat you. Your health at the end of the fight will not be a consideration.

Changing money
Generally speaking US dollars are the preferred currency, although other major currencies can be used in the more mature tourist areas. Hole-in-the-wall bank facilities are available in most places and although some machines don't always work, fear not, the next one probably will work. Be aware though that using foreign cards in ATMs can result in some hefty charges when you get home.
Most hotels offer money changing facilities, but the rate is seldom good. Banks and official change booths are the best option. It is better not to have to change money back when leaving so watch your spending towards the end of your trip. Avoid changing money with touts, if the rate is particularly good you will somehow be conned.

Taxis
Taxis are normally very cheap and plentiful when compared with Europe and the rest of the west. Unfortunately, however, taxi drivers, particularly those based at airports, are well aware of this and will almost certainly try to overcharge you. To protect against this stick to taxis with meters and insist the driver turns it on at the start of your journey. If he says it is broken or doesn't have one, get the out and jump in the next one. If you're forced to take a taxi that doesn't have a meter, agree the fee before you travel.

Disease and medical emergencies
Travelling without insurance is inadvisable. Even if the public health care system exists it will be at the most basic level. A medical insurance card in your pocket will ensure that you end up at a nearby modern expensive international hospital (if there is one). No card and your are with the Asian equivalent of the NHS, and even Mr Blair would give up trying to fix that!
It's easy to buy drugs in pharmacies in most places, and they are a good place to go for a cure to minor ailments. There are normally English speaking doctors around if you ask, but you will have to pay (but only a tiny amount compared to Europe).
Accidents are the main reason travellers end up in hospital, and a large percentage of those involve motor bikes. You have been warned.

Driving and hiring vehicles
The general requirement when driving in soth east Asia is keep your eyes open, and busy! Road rules are difficult to understand and probably disregarded by everyone but you.
Hiring vehicles is easy enough, but most are mechanical nightmares and not insured properly. The fee may include a very basic cover, but that almost certainly excludes third party claims or damage to the vehicle. It is essential, therefore, to check thoroughly that the vehicle is insured for all eventualities. A good bet is to stick to reputable companies or franchises with which you are familiar.
Many tourists are killed or seriously injured every year as a result of motorbike accidents, so for that reason alone, hiring one is not considered a good idea. They are seldom insured and even if they are, in the event of an accident involving a local, you will be forced to pay out, regardless of blame. In addition, if you do decide to rent a bike, its owner may well insist on keeping your passport as security. Should a dispute later arise, your precious document will stay with him until the matter is settled to his satisfaction.