Viet Nam Cambodia Laos and Myanmar
As your trusted receptive agency in Vietnam, Cambodia, and Laos, we have prepared a short pre-departure guide to help your clients get ready for their trip to Indochina. We kindly invite you to share the following information with your travelers so they can better understand local conditions, pack appropriately, and enjoy a smooth and culturally respectful journey.
Formalities & Entry Requirements
Vietnam
Visa-free (up to 45 days) for citizens of:
UK, Germany, France, Italy, Spain, Norway, Finland, Sweden, Russia, Korea, Japan.
Passport must be valid 6 months after return.Other nationalities: please contact your embassy.
Health: No mandatory vaccines. Usual recommended vaccines: Tetanus, Polio, Diphtheria, Hepatitis A & B, Typhoid.
Cambodia
Passport must be valid 6 months after return.
Visa on arrival for UK and EU citizens.
Other nationalities: contact your embassy.
No mandatory vaccines.
Laos
Passport valid 6 months after return.
Visa on arrival for UK and EU citizens.
No mandatory vaccines.
Language
Vietnam: Vietnamese is the official language; English widely spoken in tourist areas.
Cambodia: Khmer is the official language; English widely used.
Laos: Lao is the official language; English spoken in tourist zones.
Local Currency & Exchange Rates
Exchange rates fluctuate frequently.
Vietnam: Vietnamese dong (VND)
1 € ≈ 30,520 VND
£1 ≈ 34,900 VND
Cambodia: Riel (KHR)
1 € ≈ 4,645–4,648 KHR
£1 ≈ 5,287 KHR
US dollars are widely accepted.
Laos: Kip (LAK)
1 € ≈ 25,180 LAK
£1 ≈ 28,420–28,460 LAK
Tips:
Exchange money on arrival or withdraw at ATMs.
Avoid exchanging money on the street.
Time Difference
For all three countries:
London noon = 6 pm in summer / 7 pm in winter
Government Taxes
All quoted travel rates already include:
Hotel & transportation taxes
Entrance fees
Guide services
Electricity
Vietnam & Cambodia: 220V – 50Hz
Laos: 230V – 50Hz
Power cuts may occur in rural areas — keep a small flashlight or your phone handy.
What to Wear?
General
Light, breathable clothing for tropical climates.
A hat/cap and sunscreen are essential.
Comfortable walking shoes recommended.
Temples & Pagodas (All countries)
Shoulders must be covered.
Shorts/skirts must go at least to the knee.
Avoid revealing clothes.
Weather Notes
Northern Vietnam & Northern Laos (Nov–Mar): Mornings and evenings can be cold — bring warm layers.
Cambodia: Air-conditioned vehicles/buildings can feel chilly — a light jacket is helpful.
Climate Overview (°C)
(Simplified quick view)
Vietnam
Hanoi: 13–33°C depending on season (cold winters, hot summers)
Da Nang: 19–34°C year-round
Ho Chi Minh City: 21–34°C consistently warm
Cambodia:
21–36°C year-round
Laos:
Luang Prabang: 14–34°C depending on season
Pakse: 16–35°C
Luggage & Personal Items
A suitcase of 20–30 kg is generally enough.
Bring a small daypack for excursions and short overnight stays.
Keep some space for local shopping.
Tap water is not drinkable — use bottled water only.
Local Etiquette & Cultural Considerations
Photography
Always ask before photographing people, especially in rural areas.
Respect anyone who declines.
Gifts for Villagers
Acceptable small gifts:
Pens, notebooks, crayons
Soap and basic hygiene items
Avoid:
Money
Expensive gifts
Giving directly to children (encourages begging)
Tipping Guidelines
Not mandatory but appreciated.
Groups of 2–6 travelers (per person/day):
Guide: €3
Driver: €1.5
Boatmen/porters: €0.5
Groups of 7–10 travelers (per person/day):
Guide: €2
Driver: €1
Boatmen/porters: €0.5
Things to Avoid
Touching a child’s or adult’s head — considered disrespectful.
Touching merchandise in markets without permission.
Giving money or sweets to children.
Wandering in large cities with loosely held bags/cameras.
Exchanging money on the street.
Useful Reminders
Carry essential medication and a small first-aid kit.
Dress modestly in rural or religious areas.
Be mindful of cultural differences and local customs.
Stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun.
