I took my summer vacation early this year – I just couldn’t wait to take advantage of the amazing prices. This travel guide was compiled after I spent a whirlwind week in Vietnam and Cambodia.  The visit to provincial Hanoi, then some time in the strikingly more modern city of Ho Chi Minh and finishing off with a final stop to relax and explore in Siem Reap was the perfect combination.

Here are some quick tips if you are planning to visit either country…..

Getting Around

Don't Expect to Hear This Guy on the Radio

• Walking can be a bit intimidating with all of the motorbikes. If you wait for a break in the action you’ll be on the corner for hours.  Step off and walk briskly across the street, the drivers will navigate their way around you
• In Siem Reap you’ll be using Tuks.  For less than $10 per day you can have a driver who will wait for you at every destination.

Currency

• U.S. dollars worked just as well and in many cases were preferred by vendors. If you go to your bank before your trip or once you get to these countries, ask for new bills as crisp currency is preferred.
• If you need to change a travelers check at a bank, be prepared to stand in a long line.  The systems are still very paper-based so each transaction is lengthy – it’s actually pretty fascinating to observe.

Shopping

• Try all clothing on before purchasing. The fits are very different from our Western sizes
• The Night Market in Siem Reap was too touristy for my taste. It houses a movie theater and an “Island Bar,” with many vendors selling tourist souvenirs rather than local goods. A better bet for an authentic experience is The Old Market. The vendors here are more open to negotiations, so you can usually get a better price and this area is home to the old colonial buildings for a better atmosphere.
• The negotiations, especially in Cambodia, were a lot of fun and it’s easy to arrive at a price that makes both parties happy

Don’t forget to schedule some time for some spa treatments.  If you’re feeling adventurous, go for a Thai massage.  At 20% or less compared to the cost of services in the US, why wouldn’t you?

Kristen Celko

VP of Marketing and E-Commerce

Hanoi Traffic Photo Credit: wakxy on Flickr