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I'm thinking about going to the Phillipines. Can anyone
tell me what innoculations I will need? Thanks.
[Posts on this topic: 0. Latest post: Wed 26 May, 11:19].
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I have two months (july/august) off between jobs and have
wanted to see S.E. Asia, but am concerned by people who have
told me the weather is miserable this time of year. I was
planning on hitting Nepal, Bali, Thailand, Cambodia and
Vietnam.
I realize this is a very broad question, but any advise
would be appreciated.
[Posts on this topic: 2. Latest post: Wed 26 May, 11:45].
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Could anyone tell me if VN domestic flights are safe?
I'm travelling VN in July and planing to take 4 domestic
flights.
[Posts on this topic: 0. Latest post: Wed 26 May, 9:07].
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I'm going to CB and VN in August.I did some research but i
still have a few questions :
-Is Danang worth to stop?
-At this month is still possible to do some trip at the
Mekong Delta ?
-How to reach Hoi An and Hue from HCM ?How many hours does
it takes?
-Which is the reasanoble time to aford visiting Sapa?
Thanks in advance
[Posts on this topic: 2. Latest post: Wed 26 May, 11:21].
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Hello,
Does anyone know what time the travel agent / accomodation desk at the Bangkok airport arrival area closes?
Last year, I found them to be very useful in finding incredibly good value accomodation, well below prices we could've negotiated for ourselves. I'd like to use them again this year, but am not arriving in Bangkok till 11pm.
Thanks for advice.
R
[Posts on this topic: 0. Latest post: Wed 26 May, 8:27].
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What is the cheapest/best/safest/fastest way to get from
Bangkok to Kho Samui?
Thanks
[Posts on this topic: 2. Latest post: Wed 26 May, 9:24].
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I am planning a trip to thailand and i am in need of some
maps. I cannot afford to buy maps to research my trip.
does anyone know of a site that has more detailed maps of
thailand than Lonely Planet?
thanks for your help
[Posts on this topic: 2. Latest post: Wed 26 May, 10:46].
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Thank you to all who've been extremely helpful with info
for my trip to SE Asia in June. I promise I'll frequent
this page when I get there to share the tips I learn.
[Posts on this topic: 0. Latest post: Wed 26 May, 3:20].
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Can anyone recommend a place to stay close to Bangkok airport? I will arrive in Bangkok at 2:00pm and fly on to Hanoi at 8:30am the following morning, so I don't want to trek into the city.
[Posts on this topic: 1. Latest post: Wed 26 May, 6:43].
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Hello,
I need some advice on where to go in Burma that's off the usual tourist track. Are Hsipaw and Lashio worth going to? Are there "better" places that are also relatively easy to get to by road/boat? I'd rather not have to fly if possible. Leaving in a few days.
Thanks for any info!
Si
[Posts on this topic: 4. Latest post: Wed 26 May, 11:38].
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A friend and I are leaving for Vietnam in about a month.We
got a deal on airplain tickets but they drop us off in
either Hong Kong or in Seoul.
We would like to have some info. about ticket prices from
Seoul or Hong Kong to Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh city.
[Posts on this topic: 1. Latest post: Wed 26 May, 3:46].
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Any recommendations on mid-range hotels(approx HK$400 for a
double room) in Shenzhen will be greatly appreciated
[Posts on this topic: 1. Latest post: Wed 26 May, 2:46].
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Hello!!
I'd like to know if it's a good idea to travel to Vietnam in
October. Is it OK in the North? And in the south? If it's
raining, is it possible to take transport (bus) or are the
roads too wet??
Thank you for your answers!!
Bye
[Posts on this topic: 1. Latest post: Wed 26 May, 3:20].
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Slow on the uptake, my dear: Kyaw's e-mail address has been
published here many times. Go back to your pipe and
slippers you FUCKING CUNT.
[Posts on this topic: 0. Latest post: Wed 26 May, 1:38].
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Recently Kyaw sent me one of his blabbering emails about
the virtues of Burma over every other country in SEA. He
forgot that by sending me an email would leave his email
address as a trace.
If he continues to spread lots of inane garbage on LP then
I will publish his email address for everyone who has been
a victim of his trash to reply reply.....
[Posts on this topic: 1. Latest post: Wed 26 May, 1:40].
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I am also interested in suggestions for places to stay,
prices to expect and locations for low to midrandge hotels
in:
Krabi (2 nights)
BKK (3 nights)
Chiang Mai (1 night + 2-3 day trek)
Sukhotai (1 night)
Siem Reap (2 nights)
Phnom Penh (3 nights)
Saigon (2 nights)
Mekong Delta (2 nights)
Also appreciated would be ideas on what kind of weather I
can expect in that region in the month of July.
Thank you for your ahelp, David
[Posts on this topic: 1. Latest post: Wed 26 May, 4:48].
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I will be traveling with my grandfather and my mother in
Southeast Asia this summer from June 27 through August 2. I
would like some information on the places to stay, prices
to expect and locations for low to midrandge hotels in the
following cities:
Singapore (3 nights)
Malacca (2 nights)
KL (2 nights)
Cameron Highlands (2 nights)
Taiping (1 night)
Georgetown (3 nights)
[Posts on this topic: 0. Latest post: Wed 26 May, 0:15].
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We are going to Thailand this June/July for our Honeymoon
we have planned to stay in Phuket for 7 nights and we are
still not sure if we should go to Chiang Mai or Koh Samui
for 5 nights. Could anyone please tell us which is a better
place for honeymooners.
We are just looking for nice scenery in a quite romantic
place. Any advice on where to stay and what to see and do
in either Koh Samui and Chiang Mai. Thanks
[Posts on this topic: 5. Latest post: Wed 26 May, 10:17].
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I┤m planning for a trip to Krabi, and I┤ve heard that it┤s a
good spot for rock-climbing. What I want to know is the
(overall) grade of the routes. I┤m not a 5.14-climber!!
Thank┤s in advance../Fredrik.
[Posts on this topic: 2. Latest post: Wed 26 May, 1:20].
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Hi,
I am planning to go to Myanmar (Burma), and have the
following questions:
1. is it possible to cross the Myanmar border from Thailand?
2. if so, are there special precautions? do-s and don't-s?
3. want to give me any special advice on Myanmar?
Thanks very much, best regards, Bouke
[Posts on this topic: 2. Latest post: Wed 26 May, 3:32].
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When I go, I want to go like my Granddad, peacefully in his
sleep.
Not hysterical and screaming like the passengers in his car.
[Posts on this topic: 2. Latest post: Wed 26 May, 8:13].
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Hi
My family has traveled thrugh Thailand and Malaysia in the
past 5 months. We trawel with our PC and use this to
receieve mail and news from friends and relatives. On the
1st of June we head for Vietnam and I'd like to know if
anyone has traveled with their PC in Vietnam.
Are there Internet Cafes ?
Is it possible to get a temporary Internet account in
Vietnam (I was able to get this in Thailand and Malaysia) ?
Pls reply to my mail address terje@christensen.no
(If you can read Norwegian you can look at our travel
letters on www.christensen.no)
.............Terje
[Posts on this topic: 1. Latest post: Wed 26 May, 3:29].
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we want to buy/rent motorbikes in Thailand when we first
arrive, and then travel around thailand on them. I have 2
and a half months there and my boyfriend has 1 month. Is
this advisable, if so can anyone suggest which is the
cheaper way to do this, and have we enough time. Do we need
licenses for the bikes, is petrol expensive. Is there a
cheaper way of travelling. What are the roads like there,
will we be able to cover most of the sites this way. Are
the maps good? we are not going up north, mainly along the
coast.
is the weather going to be really rainy in June, July and
August?
[Posts on this topic: 2. Latest post: Wed 26 May, 10:42].
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How does one get Veitnam to southern Thailand? Is there a
boat? Does one need to fly or pass through Cambodia to
Bangkok?
[Posts on this topic: 0. Latest post: Tue 25 May, 19:55].
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I'm in Kuala Lumpur in Malaysia. In the chinese markets you
can buy almost anything you want. Good quality videos,
including Star Wars part1, are for sale. also available is
pirate software of any description. my questions are;
1) what is the best way to post this stuff home so it goes
through customs?
2) does the software work?
Thanks
[Posts on this topic: 3. Latest post: Wed 26 May, 10:13].
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Hi,
we're travelling overland from Kuala Lumpur to Kho Samui in
early June, I'm interested in any suggestions/comments on
getting there and where to stay on Kho Samui; preferrably a
bungalow (air conditioning?). Any indictaions on cost would
also be appreciated.
Thanks, Cecilia and Rodwin.
[Posts on this topic: 2. Latest post: Tue 25 May, 21:13].
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Vn visas can be obtained via "Trailfinders Visa & Passport
Service" on 0171 938 3848. The application takes 10 days
and costs ú18 plus forty odd quid for the visa.
[Posts on this topic: 5. Latest post: Wed 26 May, 2:42].
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I'll be arriving in Bangkok around midnight and I noticed
in the LP guide that the air-con buses into the city
only opertate between 5.45 am and 8 pm. The non air-con
buses would be fine except that you're not allowed to take
any large bags. Is this correct? If I don't want to
cough-up the 200 baht for a taxi ride what are my options?
[Posts on this topic: 9. Latest post: Wed 26 May, 11:17].
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i'm travelling to Thailand on my way to Europe in about three weeks time. i was originally planning on getting a bus or train and ferry to Ko Samui but due to limited time i'm thinking about flying. Does anyone know what a return airfare is from Bangkok?? Appreciate any help.
[Posts on this topic: 3. Latest post: Tue 25 May, 15:29].
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I travelled extensively throughout Central America last
winter and found a number of places to pitch my tent. From
exotic beaches to roadside one night stopovers I never had
any problems. Is camping permitted in S.E. Asia. Can I
camp along any of the beaches?
[Posts on this topic: 1. Latest post: Tue 25 May, 16:22].
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H,
after a year in Japan, I need to get some civilisiation and
want to head of for a hedonsitic weekend in bancok..I
only have a few days and would like to know what are the
essential things that I simply must see during the time,
in fact any information, to my email if you please, would
be much appreciated....
cheers
philip
[Posts on this topic: 2. Latest post: Tue 25 May, 15:39].
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Does anyone have any experience with finding work, teaching
English and the like, in Thailand? I've been told there are
many opportunities in Taiwan, Korea, and Japan, but I
haven't heard much on Thailand. If you've any info to
share, could you please email me? I'm leaving for my first
"real" travelling adventure the end of June; throughout
Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, and eventually to Australia
and New Zealand. I've vacationed extensively, but living
out of my pack for more than a week in the wilderness will
be a new experience for me. If you have any other
(serious...or fun) suggestions, please let me know. Thanks
in advance.
[Posts on this topic: 3. Latest post: Wed 26 May, 2:43].
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I'm planning to spend a couple of weeks in Laos in November
or December but have heard that some of the western
consulates have advised their embassy people to avoid the
internal flights for safety reasons. Does any one have any
information on this or has anyone had any experience flying
the Laotian airline? Are you really taking your life in your
hands if you fly
[Posts on this topic: 4. Latest post: Wed 26 May, 1:08].
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Kanchanaburi, which is 2 hours from bangkok and is an
excellent place to chill out for a couple of days either
before you hit your hard packed travelling routine or after
a excellent but exhausting tour of thailand.
It is a laid back sort of place which has excellent places
to stay, the best is "Apples Place" and is my recommendation
for good accomodation, excellent food, friendly homestyle
atmosphere where you will want to stay for a long time (we
did) Apple and Noi are your hosts and they do everything
possible to keep you happy and entertained. They have the
best tours in Kan. can hire mopeds and will tell you the
best places to chill out. they will arrange all your travel
arrangements. Go to the Felix hotel for a swim, or the
night markets.
Apple has also started a Thai-cookery course, and once you
have tried the food you won't want to go before she teaches
you how to make her mouth watering curries, Yum Yum.
check out this web site :
http://members.tripod.co.uk/paulcarroll/Apples.html
if anyone wants more information email me or apple. happy
travels
P.S.Please say hi to apple and noi from paul & yvonne.‰
[Posts on this topic: 0. Latest post: Tue 25 May, 6:02].
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We (two families with 4 adults and 4 children (5, 7, 7, 11)
travel from 15 juli till 15 august 1999 through Vietnam. we
start in Saigon and leave from Hanoi. We are looking for
nice places to stay for some days especially with kids, on
beaches or cities (villages) hotels or resorts.
Please mail us Thanks a lot
[Posts on this topic: 2. Latest post: Tue 25 May, 16:59].
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How much does it cost on average per day to trave on the
cheap in Southern China? (area b/w Vietnam & HK)
thanks in advance
[Posts on this topic: 1. Latest post: Tue 25 May, 5:26].
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Spending a month in Thailand/Vietnam this July. I love the
fact that I have no idea where I will spend the 31 days in
between my flights. I'm not asking for advice on where to
go, because winging it to me the thrill. I am concerned
about advanced reservations. Are they needed for domestic
flights within Thailand and Vietnam? Thanks in advance for
your help.
[Posts on this topic: 2. Latest post: Tue 25 May, 20:07].
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I want to get as much up to date informations to a trip.
Do you have information about one of the following countries:
VAE, India, Nepal, Thailand, Maynmar, Malaysia, Indonesia ? Planning to start in the begining of October 99. Anyone on my way to meet somewhere?
Thanks for your help!
Andy from Germany
[Posts on this topic: 0. Latest post: Tue 25 May, 2:56].
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I heard or read somewhere that Larium is readily available
in Thailand. I'm in Korea where getting it is a hassle and
expensive. Where can I go to get some for my girlfriend and
I when we arrive in Bangkok? (I have made my decision to
take Larium. Folks with stories of hairloss and insanity
need not post, I've heard it all.)
Thanks.
-Steve
[Posts on this topic: 3. Latest post: Wed 26 May, 2:36].
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To everyone who helped me out with my last-minute Cambodian
visa panic in November - thank you very much!
The trip was wonderful and guess what? I'm planning to go
back to Cambodia in a couple of months. Lots of people I
met mentioned Ratankiri province and how beautiful it was,
and this time I think I'd like to head in that direction.
Has anyone been that way recently, and if so, what can I
expect? What I'd really like to know is how long it might
take to get there from Phnom Penh, and what sort of weather
they'll be getting in September time. Also, how bad is the
malaria/dengue fever situation in that part of Cambodia?
[Posts on this topic: 1. Latest post: Tue 25 May, 5:56].
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Currently attempting to plan a three month trip from
Thailand through either Malaysia and Indonesia or Burma,
Veitnam, Cambodia, Laos and up into China. But have no idea
how to find out what to expect. Which route would be more
fun - where I can meet hundreds of like-minded travellers,
see lots of things and generally have a serious laugh?
[Posts on this topic: 0. Latest post: Tue 25 May, 1:31].
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If you're concerned about privacy, check out www.hushmail.com
All their e-mail is sent encrypted so only the recipient can read it.
Best of all, it's the same price as Hotmail ;-)
[Posts on this topic: 0. Latest post: Tue 25 May, 1:15].
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...I am going to go to Nhatrang in the first week of July,
and would appreciate any advice on guesthouses, LP has many
recommendations. But what are the most recent
recommendations? Somewhere in the 10US a night would be
good.
Thanks alot for any input....
[Posts on this topic: 3. Latest post: Tue 25 May, 19:29].
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Has anyone done this from Europe into China?
How easy is it to get fuel once you're outside of Europe?
What is the best route to take? Through the Middle East or
through Russia? I'll be looking at starting off next summer
(2000)
[Posts on this topic: 1. Latest post: Tue 25 May, 8:21].
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Hello everybody!
I am very interested in stories from people who travelled as
backpackers in malaysia.
Especially I would like to be informed about travelling by
train, bus, bike and others in and around KL, Teman Negara,
the East coast with the islands.
Specially your experience with the natives.
When I am backpacking I would like to be one of them.(as
much as possible)
Thanks in advance.
Kees.
[Posts on this topic: 1. Latest post: Tue 25 May, 19:20].
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My fiancee is a Thai national and before anyone starts
flaming she's not a bargirl either. Anyway we've decided to
marry in her country but would like it to be legal under
British law. So can we get married at the British Embassy
or British Consulate?
[Posts on this topic: 4. Latest post: Tue 25 May, 23:12].
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IS there anybody who has recently been to Cambodia? What is
teh weather in Seam Reap? Has the rainy season started
already? Please inform me on this matter.
Thanks, Jeroen.
[Posts on this topic: 2. Latest post: Tue 25 May, 16:49].
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Can anybody recommend a decent Trekking Company in Chiang
Mai?
I am arriving in Chiang Mai on Saturday and only have about
six days before heading south .
I know that there are loads of trekking companies in Chiang
Mai: some good, some not so good.
Any tips or pointers would be much appreciated. like cost
or the best areas to trek.
[Posts on this topic: 4. Latest post: Tue 25 May, 23:18].
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Does anyone know the recipe for those pork kebabs which you
get from street barbeques all over Thailand? They're
usually served in little plastic bags along with a chilli
dipping sauce. I'm completely addicted to them and need a
fix as my next trip is just too far away...
Forever grateful to anyone who can help!
[Posts on this topic: 1. Latest post: Tue 25 May, 19:23].
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I would like to get in contact with anyone who will be around the Thai Islands for New Year. Does anyone know of any Millenium parties?
Also I would like some advice on the price and availability of accommodation.
Thanks, Gav
[Posts on this topic: 0. Latest post: Mon 24 May, 20:28].
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Airline Disappointment: May 18,
1999
I recently had my second disappointment with China Airlines.
Several years ago my luggage was lost for 4 days on the
SF-Taipei flight. It was returned but with no note or
explanation. I was lucky. More recently there was a two-hour
plus delay on a Taipei-Manila flight due to brake problems
discovered just as we started to back up. It was repaired
with passengers on board and ended with a 2-hr flight
requiring 5 hrs in our seats. I was too late to do business
in Manila and returned with nothing accomplished and having
to go to HK two weeks later to finish my resident visa
business. The major repair to the brake system was a noisy
and hot experience. It also was unsafe since it is always
safer to take passengers off before any major repair and not
needlessly endanger lives. A fire would have been
catastrophic. The China Airlines complaint department made
me go through a one-month process and a series of faxes,
including a final one where they wanted my Passport and Visa
copied. It ended with the same story and form letter as the
initial one - We are not responsible for delays due to
mechanical failure or our maintenance difficulties. I have
spent seven years in Asia and worked in or visited eleven
countries here, over forty world-wide. The overall onboard
service, reputation (general knowledge here in Taiwan from
conversations after my disappointment), and accountability
is inferior to the other options for air travel. Word to the
wise.
Better Luck Next Time,
Dennis Daniels
DDaniels@dl.com.tw
[Posts on this topic: 4. Latest post: Wed 26 May, 10:07].
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Anyone out there been treking in the Nan province? I have
heard of elephant treks true or false. Thanks in advance
[Posts on this topic: 0. Latest post: Mon 24 May, 18:33].
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Hello!
Is there any direct way from Kan south (via Phetburi)to
Phang Nga or do I have to backtrack to Bangkok. Also which
TC's are most widely accepted in Thailand?
Tahnk you!
[Posts on this topic: 2. Latest post: Tue 25 May, 18:53].
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Hi!
I was wondering which is the place or National Park in
Thailand to see wildlife. LP has good comments on Khao Yai,
Doi Inhanton, Khao Sok, but I've heard from other
travellers, that they spot hardly any wildlife there. Could
someone comment on that? Thanks a lot!
Juan
[Posts on this topic: 0. Latest post: Mon 24 May, 18:27].
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We are about to spend afew days in Malaysia on holiday.
Does anyone know the best way to buy the local currency?
Take USD or use the plastic?
[Posts on this topic: 4. Latest post: Mon 24 May, 22:51].
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Would the pig-ignorant Another Flyer please check his
London-KL flight timetables.
[Posts on this topic: 3. Latest post: Tue 25 May, 19:56].
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Can anyone recommend places to celebrate New Years Eve
2000 in Vietnam. Altenatively, if it is not celebrated
there could you please tell me.
Thanks.
[Posts on this topic: 2. Latest post: Tue 25 May, 13:11].
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Can anyone recommend the best way to get from Bangkok to
Kunming, or anywhere in Yunnan? A friend and I have
considered flying, which would be fairly expensive for our
budget and are trying to consider other options. Are there
trains or buses to China via Laos or Vietnam? Are visas
necessary for these countries if we only pass through them
to get to China? Thanks for any recommendations.
[Posts on this topic: 1. Latest post: Mon 24 May, 17:35].
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Would you be interested in sailing along the East Malaysian
Coast and its Islands to Thailand (or even beyond)
We depart Singapore on the 1st of June and would be spending
approx. 3 weeks in Malaysia before heading to Thailand.
Scuba Dive gear on Board. Large Cruising Yacht. 4 Bunks
still available. Some cost sharing involved.
Consider!
[Posts on this topic: 2. Latest post: Tue 25 May, 2:46].
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We are travelling in a few weeks to Thailand and hiring a
car in the north. I am thinking of whether to travel into
Laos.
I would welcome comments on whether it is worth travelling
into Laos from the North or North East for a few days or
not.
How do you get around?
[Posts on this topic: 3. Latest post: Mon 24 May, 20:31].
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i know this is probably a silly question... but i'm a first-
time traveler :) I'm from Toronto (Canada), and planning
to go to SEAsia in a month for about 2.5 months; what's the
procedure for obtaining visas? I've called some travel
agencies, and they all tell me i have to go to the
consulates individually... I don't mind doing so, but are
there ANY travel agencies that would handle this? It will
make everything so much easier for myself, as well as my
travelling companions.
Thanks in advance for all responses, they'll be much
appreciated :)
[Posts on this topic: 2. Latest post: Tue 25 May, 9:14].
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Im going to be in Thailand for about 6-8 weeks, the haasle is that I will have a suitcase with me (I'll
be between a job in Asia and a job in Europe). Does any one know a safe place in Bankok or
Chiang Mai to leave a siutcase for an extended time? Railway stations? Hotels? Ive been teaching
so Im so rich that I can afford to send it by air freight.
[Posts on this topic: 4. Latest post: Tue 25 May, 9:20].
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Many men about town are experts on bargirls and know all
about what they think, what they do and why they do it.
This reporter, not being an expert and having grown up in
this region, felt knowledge deficient and decided to talk
to the girls themselves. The reader might say: æSomeone who
grew up here should know more about bargirls than a
newcomer.Æ The truth is that bars hold little attraction
for farangs who have lived here since they were very young
(under the age of ten). Having lived here since the age of
four, Thai is one of this writerÆs mother tongues, so the
following forum was held in the central and Isan dialects.
I had the chance to talk to five of the dancers in a
Pattaya bar. Their names were Eh, Toi, Taen, Su and Tor.
They requested that no pictures be taken.
JP: The first question was obviously, æWhy did you come to
work here?Æ
Taen: æThe first answer was obviously, æBecause people told
me the money was good.Æ
All: General agreement.
JP: Is it true?
Su: Sometimes yes, sometimes no. Its like anything. It
depends on the tourism and the number of customers.
Eh: It used to be very good when the American navy came in,
but not anymore.
Toi: Yeah. TheyÆre all afraid of AIDS.
JP: So, if youÆre not making enough money, why do you still
do this work?
Tor: We canÆt get jobs anywhere else.
JP: Are you sure you couldnÆt.
Taen: Look, you! Sorry. Where do you expect us to work? I
only finished fourth grade. To get decent jobs you have to
have finished . . .oh, I donÆt know. But no one wants us.
And we "expire" at about age 25.
JP: Thai bars seem to do pretty regular business. CouldnÆt
you get jobs there?
Toi: Thai bars donÆt want us. Thai men donÆt like girls who
look like us.
JP: I donÆt understand.
Taen: Oh, come on. OK, IÆll talk. I applied to work in a
Thai memberÆs club. They told me I didnÆt have the right
"personality". That means I wasnÆt good looking enough.
Su: Thai men like women who have light complexions and
different body types than us. WeÆre too dark and skinny.
JP: Are Thai bars better than bars that foreigners come to?
Tor: In most ways they are. Thai men come to bars for one
reason. To enjoy themselves.
JP: How about farang men?
Taen: Oy, yo, yo! Farang men. What a bunch of neurotics!
And boring. They get drunk and we have to sit and listen
for hours as they tell us their endless problems. I donÆt
understand English very well and who knows what theyÆre
talking about. IÆm not their mother. I want to get my job
done and take care of the next customer.
All: TaenÆs right. ItÆs true, etc.
Toi: And they all say weÆre so much more beautiful than
farang women. Ha!
Su: We know thatÆs not true. We see many very beautiful
farang women here in Pattaya.
Eh: I havenÆt spoken yet. Let me talk! They say weÆre more
beautiful than farang women. I think that the real reason
is that these men themselves are not charming enough to
attract their own kind. I wouldnÆt want most of them as a
life partner.
JP: But I have seen many bar workers married to farang men.
Taen: You like to play stupid. When we start getting past
the age of attraction, and meet a man who is halfway decent
and responsible, we marry him. ItÆs a matter of life
security. But we donÆt think of it as romantic love.
JP: Who would you like to have as a life partner?
Eh: A gentle Thai man. Maybe a civil servant.
All: Dream on. Are you crazy?
JP: Huh?
Su: A lot of Thai men are very charming, sweet and
handsome. But they lack a sense of responsibility toward
their family duties.
Toi: The best thing is to have a farang husband and a Thai
lover on the side (giggles all round).
Taen: DonÆt talk like that! WeÆre looking for what any
woman looks for in a man. A good person who loves and cares
about his family and is reasonably stable.
Eh: I never thought about getting married. I always wanted
to be a doctor, but my family was poor and I couldnÆt go to
school.
JP: Oh?
Taen: Dammit! YouÆre just like everybody else! Farang men
never believe it when we tell them the truth, but accept
all our lies. Listen, do you think just because weÆre poor
country people that we didnÆt have dreams. Do you think I
sat as a little girl and thought æOh, how wonderful! When I
grow up I can go to Pattaya and sell myself to a bunch of
dirty old men?
Su: Taen, leave him alone. HeÆs not looking down on us. He
just wants to know.
Taen: IÆm sorry. IÆm just a little hot head and resentful.
All of us would like to have a good education like you.
Everybody thinks this is easy money. Phooey! But when
youÆre poor and have many brothers and sisters and
everyoneÆs hungry all the time you do anything to survive.
When we find out there are opportunities, itÆs usually too
late. We arenÆt accepted by the normal world anymore.
Everyone looks at us and looks down on us. I always wanted
to write stories for children but I donÆt have the heart
for it now.
All: TaensÆs really smart. We call her teacher.
JP: If you could ask anyone for advice and help, who would
it be?
All: (Very reverently) Uh, Her Majesty the Queen. Her
Majesty has Metta (compassion) for all Thai people.
JP: What will you do after you stop working here?
Su: IÆve saved a little money and have built a small house
for my sister so she could find a good husband. IÆll go
back home and take care of her children for her.
ALL: Or we can marry widowers who need wives.
JP: Thank you for talking so freely.
ALL: (Everybody Wais) Mai Pen Rai Kha. Please come back and
visit again. You can be our psychologist. (Laughter).
[Posts on this topic: 4. Latest post: Wed 26 May, 11:37].
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QUESTION PLEASE!
Has anyone taken any tours in Northern Thailand, touring
the hilltribes and elephant safaries? Anything good out of
this, can you also refer anyone to me please?
Thanks in advance..
[Posts on this topic: 5. Latest post: Tue 25 May, 15:21].
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I was thinking of giving malaria tablets a miss on my next
trip,how many other people travel with out them.will
repellent and nets be enough.we are going up the coast of
malaysia + thailand and then a few weeks in laos in
aug/sept.
[Posts on this topic: 6. Latest post: Mon 24 May, 21:15].
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I will be in Thailand in 3 months and would like to spend 6-
8 weeks learning how to meditate. If anyone has had any
experiences or could recommend any places to me, I would
appreciate it. Thanks!
[Posts on this topic: 4. Latest post: Tue 25 May, 23:36].
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Some advice please on how to go about gaining a visa for Vn
from the UK. I'm not leaving until Sept. but how soon
should I be applying for a visa ?
Thanks & Happy Travels
[Posts on this topic: 2. Latest post: Tue 25 May, 9:40].
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I need some clarification here from those who have gone
thro' this before. What percentage of businesses in Myanmar
accept these FECs? Are there 2 separate price lists for the
guesthouses, restaurants, etc..? I'm assuming that the food
stalls, little shops, what little private business there
are, price their wares by Kyats. I'm also assuming that
these FECs are good for purchasing airfares from within.
Air Mandalay charges US$287 (I think) for a Yangon -
Mandalay - Bagan - Yangon circuit. That easily consumes the
FECs that one exchanges for.
One other thing, some folks here have posted, for eg., that
the Bagan Inn (Yangon) charges US$20 per night whilst the
travel books note it anywhere between US$30 and US$70 per
night. What's more advisable, just show up and request a
room (do you even haggle?) or call and reserve (btw, July
trip)?
Many thanks.
[Posts on this topic: 6. Latest post: Mon 24 May, 11:36].
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i'am travelling through indonesia during the summer,heading
down to bali and would like some advice regarding
vacinations and whether or not to have them (i'am travelling
from england)..thanks .. jamie
[Posts on this topic: 1. Latest post: Mon 24 May, 15:57].
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Kanchanaburi, which is 2 hours from bangkok and is an
excellent place to chill out for a couple of days either
before you hit your hard packed travelling routine or after
a excellent but exhausting tour of thailand.
It is a laid back sort of place which has excellent places
to stay, the best is "Apples Place" and is my recommendation
for good accomodation, excellent food, friendly homestyle
atmosphere where you will want to stay for a long time (we
did) Apple and Noi are your hosts and they do everything
possible to keep you happy and entertained. They have the
best tours in Kan. can hire mopeds and will tell you the
best places to chill out. they will arrange all your travel
arrangements. Go to the Felix hotel for a swim, or the
night markets.
Apple has also started a Thai-cookery course, and once you
have tried the food you won't want to go before she teaches
you how to make her mouth watering curries, Yum Yum.
check out this web site :
http://members.tripod.co.uk/paulcarroll/Apples.html
if anyone wants more information email me or apple. happy
travels
P.S.Please say hi to apple and noi from paul & yvonne.
‰
[Posts on this topic: 1. Latest post: Mon 24 May, 6:12].
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I am travelling via Thailand on a RTW from Australia. I am
unable to travel via Singapore where ythe camera prices are
v v good. Are they also competitive in Bangkok? Where do I
look for them for competitive prices (such as in Muhamed
Mustapha's in Singapore?)
Thanks in advance
Rgds
[Posts on this topic: 7. Latest post: Tue 25 May, 21:37].
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GÆday fellow travelers!
My wife and I are beginning another tour and would
appreciate your opinions on any of the countries on our
itinerary that you may have visited.
This time we are taking 9 months to travel to Jordan,
Syria, Lebanon, Turkey (Eastern), Iran, Pakistan, India,
Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Nepal, Indonesia, Singapore,
Malaysia, Thailand, Myanmar, Laos, China, Kazakhstan,
Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, and Turkmenistan.
Any descriptions of places you have seen in these countries
or general travel tips would be greatly appreciated.
If YOU have any need for any information on North America,
Australasia, Cambodia, Vietnam, East Africa, Egypt or
Tunisia, I may be able to assist.
Many thanks,
Barge
[Posts on this topic: 1. Latest post: Sun 23 May, 22:17].
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Hello,
We're a swedish couple going to Thailand in the beginning of July. We are teachers and we would like to make a short visit to a school in Thailand because we┤re interested to see what it looks like. We┤re going From Bangkok-Kanchanaburi-Surat Thani and back to Bangkok or something like that.
Anyone who know how we could get in contact with a teacher or a school?
[Posts on this topic: 1. Latest post: Mon 24 May, 21:29].
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According to a story published in Sunday's (5/23) Straits
Times, MAS had been instructing its pilots not to fly with
more than the minimum amount of fuel required to get to the
destination. In July of last year, an MAS flight arriving
in London had to request an immediate landing as it was low
on fuel. In the last year, there have been ten incidents of
MAS flights landing at Heathrow with less fuel than the
minimum set by international regulations. MAS has since
probably corrected this problem, but it is badly in debt,
which leaves one to wonder what else it is cutting corners
on to save money?
[Posts on this topic: 2. Latest post: Mon 24 May, 18:05].
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My boyfriend and I are travelling from New Zealand to
Singapore bound for Thailand end of August and are not sure
wheather to take the train from Singapore up through to
Chang Mai and fly back to Singapore or fly to Chang Mai
first then train back down to Singapore.
Any recommendations would be greatly appreciated. We have
one month - then onto India for a month.
Thanks
[Posts on this topic: 2. Latest post: Mon 24 May, 10:54].
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I would really like to hear from someone who has done or
who knows of a really good language course undertaken in
Vietnam. I am really interested in learning vietnamese in
vietnam at the end of the year. Anyone have any helpful
information?
[Posts on this topic: 6. Latest post: Tue 25 May, 21:24].
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Probably have read all the bad. I am a female intending to
travel alone from Singapore overland up to Northern
Thailand to do some hilltribe trekking. Heard some crazy
stories about soldiers harrassing people in the night, and
groups going missing. Is it risky?
[Posts on this topic: 3. Latest post: Mon 24 May, 3:43].
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I have probably been reading all the bad. I am a single
female traveller and was intending to travel from Singapore
all the way up to Bangkok by train or bus, then up north to
do some hill tribe trekking. Is it safe to do it on my own?
Read some crazy stories about people being harrassed in the
middle of the night by soldiers?
[Posts on this topic: 0. Latest post: Sun 23 May, 11:10].
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Mae Hong Son, Pai, Mae Sariang, Doi Suthep, Tha Ton,
Lampang, Nan, Sukhothai, Mae Sot,Phitsanulok...can you
recommend any of these? Can I do some sort of logical
circuit in 2 weeks from Bangkok in mid June? I am single,
female, age 50,and enjoy scenery & great food! Thanks in
advance for your advice.
[Posts on this topic: 2. Latest post: Tue 25 May, 7:28].
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Would the weather in Ko Chang in mid-end June be ok? Could I
snorkel? Is it an ok place for a single woman age 50 to go?
Where's a good place to stay? Thanks.
[Posts on this topic: 1. Latest post: Tue 25 May, 7:04].
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I've read in a newspaper that it would be very dangerous to
travel to Cambodia, and really unwise.
Is this true?
They even say that the canadian govt advise the people to
think it twice and choose another country.
Anyone who had really bad experience ?
I'm planning to go there Jan 2000.
Tks.
[Posts on this topic: 5. Latest post: Tue 25 May, 2:21].
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Does anybody know if it's possible to get an open airplane
ticket (leaving in the beginning of September)from
Vancouver,Canada to Kuala Lampur and then, Bangkok to Hong-
Kong and Dheli to anywhere in Europe? How much will cost?
Around 1000$ or 2000$ Cad?
[Posts on this topic: 1. Latest post: Tue 25 May, 5:33].
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Farang wrote me that I could teach in Bangkok.May I teach
French? Thanks to Farang and Yvonne who answered my last
question, it is very appreciate!
[Posts on this topic: 0. Latest post: Sun 23 May, 1:47].
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Have read all the posts and the guide book (LP) re Vietnam. Just got my passport back from Travel Agent with my Vietnam visa. The visa form which is stapled into passport reads....Port of entry.. Hanoi/Saigon and is hand written (by travel agent) I have a bad feeling that this is not acceptable and that the port of entry should be stamped into the passport. There is a visa stamped in the passport..all in Vietnamese of course but nowhere do I see Hanoi or Saigon. Help!!! Is it acceptable to specify..Hanoi/Saigon? I've just paid Aus$ 95 for this visa. Do I need to get it adjusted? Leave in 8 days. Need advise, fast.
Thanks LP readers,
Annie
[Posts on this topic: 14. Latest post: Tue 25 May, 0:27].
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I am travelling from vietnam (Hanoi) through Laos, to Bankok
(end of July)and am wodering how safe this is for a single
female? I am crossing from vietnam to Laos on the Cau Treo
crossing. Is this popular, is it safe? is there a better
crossing? Any tips for places to go in Laos? and any other
info would be much appreciated. Cheers.
[Posts on this topic: 3. Latest post: Mon 24 May, 21:51].
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Hi,
I suddenly got one month off in June. I decided to spend
the time in Vietnam. However, I can not arrange a visa in
my own country in such a short time. So, I want to fly over
Bangkok and have my visa arranged there.
Anyone out there who knows how much time it'll take to get
a visa in Bangkok?
Thanks, Dik
[Posts on this topic: 0. Latest post: Sat 22 May, 20:34].
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Even in the election run-up, do you think it'll be safe
just to fly into Jakarta and get the train out asap to
Yogya or further afield, possibly Bali if it is that bad ?
Are full services continuing to run during the campaigning
period ?
[Posts on this topic: 1. Latest post: Mon 24 May, 3:47].
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I'm going to Myanmar in August for 2-3 weeks. Have already
got my flight to BKK. But am unsure about:
1. How & when to book flight to Yangon. Do I need to book?
or can I just go straight to the domestic terminal and more
or less jump on a flight! I really need to know whhat the
demand is - I've taken internal flight within Thailand
without any problem. Does anyone know if this is the same
for Myanmar?
2. VISA's What's the quickest and most trouble free method?
Should I do this at home or over there? I'm assuming dual
entry to Thailand won't be a problem. It's the Myanmar
situation I'd like to know about.
Thanks.
[Posts on this topic: 15. Latest post: Wed 26 May, 0:59].
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i am looking for a job on a sailboat.
i wonder if any of you out there have information as to
where this might be possible. i am writing in this section
because that is where i am, central thailand. i have heard
rumors that this is the time of year where sailors go to
Phuket and stock up for trips to africa, micronesia, and
the mediteranean. anyone know if this is true?
i would be most appreciative if anyone would send me
information regarding jobs, websites, clues and rumors...
thanks much,
steven
[Posts on this topic: 0. Latest post: Sat 22 May, 14:24].
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For all of you planning the Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam &
Laos trail, I've just stubbled across some very recent
travelogues on the following site:
.
http://www.slip.net/~georgem/khlavn.htm
.
(Just copy and paste this into your Address bar)
.
It's especially useful for those of you worried about
border crossings (Thailand - Cambodia etc).
.
By the way, where do you recommend staying in Siem Reap
(under US$10) and where can I catch a traditional Khmer
Dance performance?
.
Happy wanderings....
[Posts on this topic: 9. Latest post: Wed 26 May, 3:57].
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Greetings all.
We are three young british females who have just booked tickets arriving in Bangkok (mid July) and departing from Singapore (mid August).
We'd like as much info as possible about how to get from Bangkok to Singapore in the time allowed, what to see/do along the way, etc.
We've never travelled in South-east Asia before so please send us lots of useful info !
Thanks in advance.
[Posts on this topic: 6. Latest post: Tue 25 May, 16:41].
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In Bangkok if using meter taxies some rules from experience
1)make sure the meter (red LEDs center low on the dash) is
turned on 2)do not get out unless you are sure you are
in the correct place 3)do not get out untill you have ALL
your change. If the driver hassels you tell him to take you
to the tourist police station, this usually helps him find
the correct change. We had one driver leave with a 500B note
on a 75B ride, got out and paid through the window, after
that we dicovered the "no change" problem and solution, and
we were also (fools us) left on the side of the road in the
wrong location (his cab was overheating).
On the other hand the busses and trains were super!
[Posts on this topic: 8. Latest post: Mon 24 May, 10:01].
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Hope someone out there can help us.We are arriving in Phuket on 16 July for 10 days and staying at Le Meridean.I know this is the usual tourist stuff but never having been in this part of Thailand thought we would use this as a base and try and see as much as we can each day with comfort at night(plus I owe my lady a really beaut.holiday).I have Aust.dollars and wondered if I should be taking travellers cheques or just the cash.Are AUD easy to cash or exchange?For safety we can use the hotel safe deposit boxes so should be no worry about being robbed.Also we have heard this time is right in the rainy season and clothing should be light cotton.As I am 6' tall can I buy this clothing "off the rack" over there or should I be taking it from Aust.Hoping that shorts and tops are accepted everywhere but we are quiet happy to travel light and buy there if possible.Is it really that cheap to have clothes tailored in Phuket?The hotel is apparently some way from Patong and any clues on transport to Patong and Phuket Town would be helpful.There must be some "must see" places,not only the usual tourist traps,and would be grateful for any recommendations.We are flying into Singapore with Singapore Airlines with a three hour stopover and then Silkair to Phuket.I suppose Customs and Immigration would be at Singapore but can't find out the restrictions on bringing in alchol and cigs.We both like a Bundy Rum and have heard that liquor is pretty expensive.Anyone recommend a good beer there,local or otherwise and any nightlife or bars where we can have a quiet inexpensive beer and watch the world go by.Any help would be really appreciated.
[Posts on this topic: 10. Latest post: Tue 25 May, 12:15].
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I wonder if I'll have enought money for a 3 months tour
threw Kuala Lampur,Bankok, Hong-Kong,Lhasa, Katmandu,with
$3000? Airplane tickets included in the $3000?
[Posts on this topic: 3. Latest post: Sun 23 May, 6:03].
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Hi!
I'd like to know which countries in South East Asia have
flatrates when it comes to local calls.
Thanks,
Kyle
[Posts on this topic: 3. Latest post: Tue 25 May, 13:21].
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anyone know if it is possible to book a sleeper berth on the
rapid train to surat thani in June on same day as travel.
[Posts on this topic: 4. Latest post: Mon 24 May, 12:57].
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I AM TRAVELLING IN THAILAND AND LAOS JULY - AUGUST AND AM HAVING SOME DIFFICULTY IN DECIDING WHAT TYPE OF PACK TO CARRY. PROBLEM IS THIS- GO WITH A LARGE NO FRAME BUT WITH ALL THE STRAPS AND BUCKLES OR GO FOR THE FULL SIZE INTERNAL FRAME PACK. WOULD APPRECIATE SOME INPUT. THANKS
[Posts on this topic: 5. Latest post: Sun 23 May, 16:49].
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I am travelling to Thailand, Loas, and Vietnam during
September and October. My Passport has been lost in the
mail and I was issued a Temporary Passport that is valid for
one year. Does anyone know if there will be any problems
travelling with a Temporary Passport in these countries.
Any stories would be appreciated.
[Posts on this topic: 4. Latest post: Mon 24 May, 22:18].
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I am going to Vietnam this August with my husband - we arrive 17th and leave 31st. I would value any advice as to how to spend the time we have. in particular, where are good places to flop on a nice beach at this time of year? And should we bust a gut/fork out for an internal flight to make sure we get up to hanoi, or would we do better to take things more slowly and travel only as far as Hue, say? We have such a limited time that I am really keen to plan wisely. We are quite prepared to go off the beaten track a bit if that is what you experts out there recommend as the best places to go and see.
Oh, yes. What should we expect from the weather in different parts of the country??
[Posts on this topic: 4. Latest post: Mon 24 May, 2:13].
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Hello,
We are going to stop for an afternoon in Melaka on the way from Singapore to Kuala Lumpur, by bus. Does anyone know if there is a place at the bus station to leave bags for a while? If not, any other suggestions?
Thanks, Si
[Posts on this topic: 2. Latest post: Tue 25 May, 7:49].
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If you are planning to go to Koh Chang I can recommend you to leave your valuables at a safe place. It is definitely a beautiful laid back destination but if you get robbed you will not ejoy your holiday so much anymore. And Robbers seem to be very active on the island.
In my case we stayed at Hat Sai Kao, Tantawan resort. When we went out to eat for 30 minutes in a beach restaurant nearby, people broke into our hut and stole everything we had: 2 SLR-cameras, 1 videocamera, passports, travellers cheques, and everything else. A total amount for around USD 3000,-. Good catch. The strange thing is that we didn't walk around all day with the cameras on our belly, but carefully had them stuffed away, and we always took our valuables (exept for that dinner). It was only a very few times that we made pictures so people could see our cameras.
SO DON'T THINK IT WILL NOT HAPPEN TO YOU AND THAT YOU ARE MORE CAREFUL THAN OTHERS...... BECAUSE THAT'S WHAT I USED TO THINK.
When we went to the police we heard that we were not the first ones to get robbed. Just one day before us a Swiss couple was victim of the robbers, and in the notebook of the police was a whole list of others that got robbed over the last few months. According to the police the robbers are Cambodians. Later in Bangkok and other tourist places we heard more storeys about theft on Koh Chang. Maybe Mr. Cummings of Lonely Planet can go to Koh Chang police department and try to find out how bad the situation is and (in case) put a warning message in the Lonely Planet..
If there is anyone who had a similar experience as me please tell me your story.
[Posts on this topic: 0. Latest post: Fri 21 May, 21:18].
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Just a quick Question for anyone who may have travelled to
Vietnam on foot from Laos, on the visa for Vietnam do you
have to specify exact dates of entry/exit and can these be
changed if you are late ,i.e. if a bus dose not turn up.
Any help would be most appreciated,
cherrs J & J.
[Posts on this topic: 2. Latest post: Sat 22 May, 0:56].
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Hey all you backpakies!!
I'm planning to do a bit of backpacking in Jan next year
which starts from Japan-S.Korea-most of SE Asian
countries.A month long adventure I hope with a budget of
S$3000. Any tips or anyone who thinks I'm crazy to travel
to so many places on such a small budget? Let me know of
worthwhile places to go or suggested itinerary that I can
follow.
Thanks a million!
Happy travelling!!
[Posts on this topic: 3. Latest post: Mon 24 May, 20:05].
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We are looking for informations about "cheap ticket" for a
Singapore-Jakarta-Singapore flight,we will stay in IndonΘsia
for 2 mounths.
Thanks Paul
[Posts on this topic: 5. Latest post: Mon 24 May, 1:47].
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Here's a site that should be in every traveler's list of
bookmarks. It has excellent up to date health profiles and
reccommendations for locations around the world.
http://www.tripprep.com/index.html
[Posts on this topic: 0. Latest post: Fri 21 May, 18:39].
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Hi everybody!
I was just wondering is there a Hard Rock Cafe in Bangkok?
If there is one, can you tell in which part of the city?
Thanks! Daff
[Posts on this topic: 3. Latest post: Sat 22 May, 22:57].
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Have been fascinated with Dien Bien Phu since reading
Bernard Fall's account of the battle. Anyone who has been
there, are there any remnants of the seige? Are any of the
fire support bases intact? How much time should be devoted
to the area? Is the area well marked? Any posted
descriptions of what we're seeing? Any info you could
provide would be appreciated. I'm in the early stages of
planning a trip to northern Vietnam. My main purpose is to
visit various areas in northern I Corps where I was
stationed during my Marine Corps tours in VN (Marble
Mountain, Hue/Phu Bai, PK17, Dong Ha, and Khe Sanh). But
also want to jump up to Hanoi and also over to DBPhu if
there is anything left to see there.
This will be my first return. Excited at the prospect.
[Posts on this topic: 14. Latest post: Tue 25 May, 11:48].
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Could someone please confirm the date of Loy Kratong in 1999. I am trying to arrange my flights. Last year it was Nov 3rd but I am sure it relates to the time of the full moon so this year maybe different.
Thanks
[Posts on this topic: 3. Latest post: Sat 22 May, 11:59].
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Can anyone tell me how easy it is to work in Singapore for
someone from Australia.
What are the requirements.
Thanks
[Posts on this topic: 4. Latest post: Wed 26 May, 7:02].
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planning first-time asia itinerary for a 3-6 month trip. of course, i want to see it ALL! but, alas, i can't. i've read the guidebooks and looked at all the pretty pictures and, naturally, i'm overwhelmed! if i could go to just one country, which one should it be and why? maybe i'll visit the 5 most frequently mentioned destination! :) not into the 20-something party scene. looking for the 35-45 crowd. like to scuba dive, want to spend a few weeks at a buddhist monastery, too. thailand, india and nepal seem like "must-sees," no? jump in any time!!!
[Posts on this topic: 1. Latest post: Sat 22 May, 9:35].
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Hello,
Will be leaving for Burma next week. Can anyone tell me whether we can still go to Kyaiktiyo or is it already washed out?
Thanks, Si
[Posts on this topic: 2. Latest post: Sun 23 May, 21:52].
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Does anyone know of any sites with info. on the Phillipines
apart from the Lakbay and tourism government ones?
[Posts on this topic: 2. Latest post: Tue 25 May, 0:48].
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Does anybody know if there's a left luggage area in the
Seoul area? I have a 12 hour layover and, travel weariness
aside, intend to set off and explore the city!
-
Does anyone have suggestions on quick ways to get to
central Seoul, and what I'd be able to see in a day? I'd
really appreciate any advice on must-sees for a 12 hour
visit!!
-
Thanks,
Julie
[Posts on this topic: 4. Latest post: Wed 26 May, 2:51].
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I know this topic gets beat to death at times on this board,
and I did look to see if this topic was covered recently,
but I have a specific question regarding malaria in Taman
Negara National Park in Malaysia. We're going there around
the end of July, and I talked to a travel nurse who
recommended we take larium. I've heard of the side effects
and would rather not take it if the risks are low. So my
question is, what are the maleria risks in T.N. this time of
year, am I fine with deet, or should we take the medication
anyways? Also may go to Cameron Highlands. I appreciate
your responses.
[Posts on this topic: 8. Latest post: Mon 24 May, 19:55].
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I have a question, before I book my room during the heat of
the Cambodian summer... as I've never been to SE Asia, I'm
hoping somebody will advise!
Just how tolerable is the heat at night... is air-con
really necessary (and a good investment), or is a fan
generally sufficient to keep the room cool enough for a
good night's sleep?
Thanks!
Ali
[Posts on this topic: 17. Latest post: Wed 26 May, 2:55].
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i am off to siagon for a week and need information about the
nightlife and reasonable shopping centres.
any tips on bar hopping and coming out alive will be
appreciated
cheers
jim
[Posts on this topic: 7. Latest post: Mon 24 May, 2:27].
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I want to go to Cambodia as part of my trip to SEA this
summer. Does anyone have any info on the best way to get
from Thailand to Cambodia and then over the border to
Vietnam? Is overland travel safe now? Any info is greatly
appreciated. Please reply to my email address.
Kris
[Posts on this topic: 2. Latest post: Tue 25 May, 23:17].
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Hey guys,
I'm trying to figure out airfares for the different legs of
my upcoming trip. Was wondering if anyone had any idea as
to the fares for the following o/w routes:
Chiang Mai - Yangon
Yangon - Saigon
Saigon - Bangkok
Saigon - Singapore
Funny but somehow I don't see any direct flights available
between Yangon and Saigon. Those of you who have gone this
route before, what's your advise. Buy tickets when I'm
there, at a travel agency or book before arriving? Which
airlines should I consider for the different legs? I've
heard too many troubling stories about Air Mandalay and the
other Burmese carrier.
Many thanks.
[Posts on this topic: 2. Latest post: Thu 20 May, 23:01].
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I am backpacking in Thailand over 31/12/99 and I was wondering what the accommodation situation would be like? Does anyone know of a web site that has this info. Seeking accommodation under 350 Bt per night if possible.
Also, where is the Thai party ?
[Posts on this topic: 3. Latest post: Fri 21 May, 20:00].
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Any avid divers know the good places to visit around the
Peninsula? Can anyone share experiences with the long
distance taxis and the Jungle railway.
[Posts on this topic: 6. Latest post: Tue 25 May, 1:33].
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Air link : GARUDA OPENS MEDAN-PENANG AIR ROUTE
Medan, May 20 (ANTARA) - The country's flag carrier, Garuda
Indonesia Airways, as of May 15 opened a new air route
linking Medan and Penang in Malaysia and vice.
The airline is using an 89-seat Boeing-737 aircraft to
serve the new route daily.
So far, the Medan-Penang route has only been served by
Malaysian Air System (MAS).
[Posts on this topic: 0. Latest post: Thu 20 May, 18:55].
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Can anyone give me an idea on how much a cheap flight from
Bangkok to Seoul is going for in Bangkok? I will be flying
at the end of August, so that'll be high season.
-Steve
[Posts on this topic: 2. Latest post: Fri 21 May, 1:15].
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Have a slight problem. The question is whether to break a
large traveler's cheque into Baht and then buy other cash or
to get the money on the card and pay it later.
So: Does anyone know of any banks that will break a large
USD traveler's cheque into smaller ones without going into
baht and paying the service charge twice?
Or, does anyone know the best bank or money exchange in
Bangkok (or Chiang Mai) to get an advance on a traveler's
check or draw on a VISA/MC debit card?
[Posts on this topic: 2. Latest post: Sat 22 May, 3:38].
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Has anywone had any experience of voluntary work in
Cambodia?
I'd particularly like info on how to get involved with one
of the NGO's that focuses on clearing up the many land-
mines, or alternatively, one of the amputee aid orgs..
Thanks for your help
[Posts on this topic: 2. Latest post: Sun 23 May, 12:11].
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I am planning to go to Thailand and Vietnam in early Jan.
2000. Is the Y2K bug going to mess up my plans (ie
reservations, money & general everyday stuff) in SE Asia or
will it just make it "more interesting"?
Thanks
[Posts on this topic: 5. Latest post: Mon 24 May, 16:24].
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Great meal, thanks. You're welcome to visit our Shwe-pyi-
daw anytime.
[Posts on this topic: 0. Latest post: Thu 20 May, 14:53].
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Can anyone advise if there is any silver jewellery available in
Burma. Would appreciate and details please.
I am currently in Kaosan Road, Bangkok and am interested in
oing to Burma to purchase some.
[Posts on this topic: 3. Latest post: Tue 25 May, 19:19].
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I recently spent four weeks in Myanmar. Most nights I
stayed at MTT approved hotels and I took MTT approved
tours. I had a hassle free and most informative time in
Myanmar. On a couple of occasions I dined out with members
of the military and f the Government who were staying in
the same hotels as myself. I found them to be quite human
and quite unlike the pictures painted in the media in our
countries. I would request anybody, before castigating
these people to maybe take some time out of your self
indulgent 'right on' travels to meet these people who are
quite accessible to anyone who wishes to meet them and they
will gladly answer your questions. Try and see both sides
of the story. Aung Sang Suu Kyi has no magic wand. If she
comes to power Myanmar's problems won't automatically
disappear.
[Posts on this topic: 6. Latest post: Fri 21 May, 17:40].
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I will be taking a bicycle to Thailand later in the
year.Having never taken a bike with me before, could anyone
give me any tips or advice on taking it on airlines and
through customs etc.
Thankyou.
[Posts on this topic: 3. Latest post: Mon 24 May, 16:19].
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Has anone stayed in any of these places in Kowloon?
(1) Evergreen Hotel
(2) Shamrock Hotel
(3) Caritas Lodge
(4) STB Hostel
What do you think of their location,facilities,rooms etc
[Posts on this topic: 8. Latest post: Sun 23 May, 22:27].
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Is it possible to hire a boat or joinothers on a boat that
sails around some of the islands of the Phillipines. We are
considering doing this for our honeymoon. Is it expensive?
[Posts on this topic: 2. Latest post: Fri 21 May, 12:00].
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Can anybody give me an up-to-date price for left luggage at
Bangkok airport? I've heard 20 baht/piece/day, and also
$1.20/piece/day. Makes a bit of a difference :)
Thanks!
Melanie
[Posts on this topic: 3. Latest post: Thu 20 May, 17:51].
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Anybody know of a place to get a good traditional(ancient)
massage
in Bangkok apart from wat po? also anyome know about the
new super fast bus
to Rayong how frequently they go and any good clean
bungalows/guest houses
right down on the beach in Ko samet?
[Posts on this topic: 3. Latest post: Fri 21 May, 5:50].
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I will be spending the next year as an exchange student in
Thailand. I will be attending school and living with a host
family, likely in a small town. The thing is, I keep getting
warnings that I shouldn't drink the water or eat from street
vendors. Today I went to get my innoculations done and they
told me that plus I shouldn't swim in lakes or rivers and I
shouldn't wear sandals. This doesn't really seem realistic
if I'm going to be living there for a whole year. What
should I do?
[Posts on this topic: 18. Latest post: Mon 24 May, 11:55].
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Hi All
I am planning on visiting Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore and
Bali and am in two minds whether to take Malaria tablets, I
am not planning on going any further north than Bangkok and
will not be off the beaten trail too much, it seems like
too much of a hassle for something that is not that
effective anyway.
What do you think???
[Posts on this topic: 6. Latest post: Fri 21 May, 14:45].
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Which brand of travellers cheques are best to take to
Vietnam ??
[Posts on this topic: 6. Latest post: Fri 21 May, 20:52].
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I am currently in Bangkok trying to decide if it's worth
heading to Nepal this late in the season.
If anyone has been or has talked to anyone who has been
lately,or who has an inside scoop on the weather, let me
know. I am concerned about visability and whether the cost
of getting there would be worth it. I am most interested in
the Everest route as I understand that it is open later in
the season.
Thanks a ton for taking a moment to reply.
Cheers.
[Posts on this topic: 1. Latest post: Thu 20 May, 13:52].
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How is diving in Cambodia? what is the best place to go to?
[Posts on this topic: 2. Latest post: Fri 21 May, 13:05].
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Is it possible to fly from Chiang Mai to Hat Yai or any
other town near the malaysian border? How much will it cost?
Does anyone have info. about a good gusthouse in CM and a
serious trekking operator? Thanks
[Posts on this topic: 4. Latest post: Sat 22 May, 9:42].
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Has anyone had any experience with China air? I'm planning
to fly from Amsterdam to Bangkok and they are the cheapest,
before I book I'd like to hear whate experiences people have
had.
Thank you
[Posts on this topic: 11. Latest post: Tue 25 May, 5:44].
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Can anyone tell me what the departure tax is from BKK in both baht and us$.
Is it different for national and international flights?
Is there anything else that it might be useful to have $cash for??
Thanks
[Posts on this topic: 4. Latest post: Fri 21 May, 6:00].
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i would like to get information about the touristic site in Bangkok, also i need information about the shopping centers & Shopping area.
What Bangkok is famoused with????
What is the most thing should the tourist take from Bangkok as a gift?
what are the casual restaurants do you have in Bangkok?
i would appreciate if i can get an answer from you through my e-mail address as it shown above.
kindest regards
Oraib
[Posts on this topic: 1. Latest post: Wed 19 May, 20:19].
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in July I'll make a stopover in Singapore of 5 1/2 weeks. I
want to go to tailand to visit a friend.
* Does anybody know a cheap hotel for one night in
Singapore?
* What is the best and cheapest way to Tailand?
[Posts on this topic: 2. Latest post: Fri 21 May, 15:53].
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Hi
I have 3 days in Bangkok on my way to Europe. Please can anyone give me advice on good places to go and see and any good hostels, cheap food, cheap shops. I'm on a tight budget. Wouldn't mind abit of culture. How far to the beach from Bangkok and is it easy to get there?
Also does anyone know about lock up luggage facilities at the airport.
Thanks in advance guys.
[Posts on this topic: 4. Latest post: Thu 20 May, 10:14].
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I'd be interested to hear which bars people reckon are, or
were, the best in South East Asia. I'll throw a couple in
for a start.
Cap'n Greggs on MH Del Pilar in Manila. Used to be used
as a Manila outpost for his Puerto Galera diving operation.
Quiet drinking bar overlooking the street.
Firehouse on MH Del Pilar. Some of the most beautiful
girls you would ever meet plus video clips well before they
were mainstream action.
The Border Bar in Mae Sai, Thailand. A small place on the
road to Mae Sai Guest House. Just nice relaxing atmosphere
but always with the impression that something was about to
happen.
Madrid Pizza Bar on Patpong, BKK. Good food, friendly
waitresses, great pizza. Mostly expats. I remember one
time there when I went to pay I realised that I didn't have
enough money - I offered to phone up a mate to come over and
give me some but they said "No, just come back later and
pay"
Cheers
Cheers
[Posts on this topic: 24. Latest post: Mon 24 May, 13:11].
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I need a recommendation for a guest house in HCMC. I'd like
to find one that is similar, in terms of atmosphere and
amenities, to the Walkabout Guest House in Phnom Penh.
--
Thanks
[Posts on this topic: 2. Latest post: Mon 24 May, 9:03].
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Can anyone tell me the airfare (returnticket) from
Singapore to Koh Samui ?
Thanks.
[Posts on this topic: 7. Latest post: Tue 25 May, 18:28].
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My friend and I will be arriving in Singapore after almost
20 hours of flying and want to stay in comfy, clean, quite
and well run hotel for a few days to get all our senses back
in order. Any recommendations?
Anyone ever stay at LLoyds Inn ??(mentioned in LP)
We're leaving next week so any info would really be
appreciated.
[Posts on this topic: 5. Latest post: Sun 23 May, 6:20].
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I'm using Bangkok as sort of a home base, as I embark on
various excursions around SE Asia.
'
What sort of international arrival/departure taxes can I
expect at Bangkok airport?
'
One more question -- arriving around Midnight at Khao San
Rd. - will guesthouses/hostels be open at this time, or
would I be better off finding a place to stay by the
airport?
Many thanks for any help!
[Posts on this topic: 3. Latest post: Wed 19 May, 20:28].
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Pardon the naivety, but is it still possible to get a visa
upon arrival at Vientiane airport?
Thanks a lot!
Megan
[Posts on this topic: 3. Latest post: Thu 20 May, 1:47].
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whenever there is a posting on trekking it always comes up
why do people recomend libra guest house as a place to stay
and trek from ?
its not all that good
the treks are average
maybe because its in the book and people cant think for
themselves
any comments
[Posts on this topic: 6. Latest post: Fri 21 May, 17:39].
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Please can anyone help us , were travelling from
Thailand to Veitnam thrugh Laos on foot .
where are the best places to get visas and which type are
best? Transit visas or tourist visas ,Bankok or Vietienne
If anyone has any information or hints to give us it would
be most appreciated
Cheers J & J
[Posts on this topic: 4. Latest post: Thu 20 May, 6:00].
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Someone asked me why I want to go to Vietnam this September
and below was my reply. Maybe you'll think my reasons are a
bit naive however it's booked now so it's a bit late to
change my mind. Why did you (the seasoned travellers who
hange out on the Thorn Tree)decide to go to the more remote
areas of the Far East ? I am interested in the views of
people who have never ever been to the Far East .....
Originally it was going to be Peru however we changed our
minds when we were in Northern Thailand just before
Christmas. We loved the North of Thailand so much that we
decided to go back to the Far East the following year.
The reason for choosing Vietnam ? To be honest, I don't
actually remember the reason. Maybe it was because we fell
in love with the remoteness,simplicity, friendlyness & the
culture of Northern Thailand so we had this wacky idea when
in Chaing Mai that Vietnam is the same (another attraction
is the lack of tourists in Vn). It will be our 3rd trip to
the Far East and I'm even trying to get a transfer to
Manila in the Philippines with my company - the diving is
supposed to be good there.
Regarding the diving in Vietnam, I put out a post in Scuba
UK and in the Lonely Plant web site ( www.lonelyplanet.com
) looking for information and I got a reply from a dive
centre in Southern Vn. Supposedly, the diving isn't
as great as the more developed tourist areas of the Far
East as the lack of formal education has mean't that local
fishermen were using dynamite and cyanide to catch fish.
This has obviously caused havoc with the coral and fish
stocks however I have learned that it's getting better
although not in time for my trip.
[Posts on this topic: 5. Latest post: Thu 20 May, 2:21].
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Does anyone know about getting to Kentung by road from
Thailand?
How long is a visa for the Kentung region, bought at
Takalek(spelling?)at the Thai Burma border, good for? How
much money does it cost?
How many dollars need to be exchanged for funny money? Can
changing money officially be avoided? Is the black market
rate still much higher than the official rate? How are the
roads (it is now rainy season and I'm in Thailand, but I
can't find out much from here) and how long does the trip
take? Anywhere worth staying over on the way?
The Lonely Planet for Burma is 3 years old and there is no
update online so I need help!
[Posts on this topic: 9. Latest post: Sun 23 May, 2:15].
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I am heading for Thailand at the end of August. I will be travelling alone and would really appreciate it if anyone could give me some tips on a decent, safe and preferably friendly hostel to stay in Bangkok. Thanks to anyone that helps.
[Posts on this topic: 2. Latest post: Fri 21 May, 20:15].
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I┤m planing to take the diving certificate in Thailand next
week. Can anyone recommend a good school and a nice place
to stay? The cheaper the better! I also wonder for how many
days the course goes on. If you know something about diving
or if you happen to be anywhere around Koh Tao please write!
Thank you/ Catrin
[Posts on this topic: 2. Latest post: Fri 21 May, 0:43].
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As taken from a Florida Newspaper:...
A man was working on his motorcycle on his patio and his
wife was in the house in the kitchen. the man was racing
the engine on the motorcycle and somehow, the motorcycle
slipped into gear. The man, still holding the handlebars,
was dragged through a glass patio door and the motorcycle
dumped onto the floor inside the house. The wife, hearing
the crash, ran into the dining room, and found her husband
laying on the floor, cut and bleeding, the motorcycle
laying next to him and the patio door shattered. The wife
ran to the phone and summoned an ambulance.
Because they lived on a fairly large hill, the wife went
down the several flights of long steps to the street to
direct the paramedics to her husband. After the ambulance
arrived and transported the husband to the hospital, the
wife uprighted the motorcycle and pushed it outside.
Seeing that gas had spilled on the floor, the wife obtained
some paper towels, blotted up the gasoline, and threw the
towels in the toilet. The husband was treated at the
hospital and was released to come home.
After arriving home, he looked at the shattered patio door
and the damage done to his motorcycle. He became
despondent, went into the bathroom, sat on the toilet and
smoked a cigarette. After finishing the cigarette, he
flipped it between his legs into the toilet bowl while
still seated. The wife, who was in the kitchen, heard a
loud explosion and her husband screaming. She ran into
the bathroom and found her husband laying on the floor.
His trousers had been blown away and he was suffering from
burns on the buttocks, the back of his legs, and his
groin. The wife again ran to the phone and called for an
ambulance.
The same ambulance crew was dispatched and the wife met
them at the street. The paramedics loaded the husband on
the stretcher and began carrying him to the street. While
they were going down the stairs to the street accompanied
by the wife, one of the paramedics asked the wife how
the husband burned himself. She told them and the
paramedics started laughing so hard, one of them tipped the
stretcher and dumped the husband out. He fell down the
remaining steps and broke his arm.
Now THAT is a bad day.
--
When I go, I want to go like my Granddad, peacefully in his
sleep.
Not hysterical and screaming like the passengers in his car.
[Posts on this topic: 4. Latest post: Tue 25 May, 21:42].
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Heard this one in a bar last night.
Q: Which two books about Burma were written by George
Orwell?
A: "Burmese Days" and "1984"
:-):-)
Was back in Aus recently. Now you're a woman for a bargain.
how's this? Good fare (Flight Centre) to S.America deps
until 30 November with Qantas/LanChile stopover Easter
Island/Tahiti/Auckland/Santiago/Buenos Aires A$1989 from
Perth. Cheaper from your side probably. See you in Torres
del Paine for Xmas - that's if SLORC don't get yer first!
[Posts on this topic: 3. Latest post: Fri 21 May, 18:54].
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Sounds really indulgent but me and a friend (who just got a
huge compo payment) will travel in Cambodia and then have a
week in Thailand. She is a single parent who needs a break
and I am a harassed Embassy worker. Anyone know of a semi-
luxurious place in Thailand that we could chill (prefer in
or close to Bangkok). We're thinking spa, massage, teakwood
house, privacy, good food...Cheers for any suggestions.
[Posts on this topic: 8. Latest post: Mon 24 May, 17:29].
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Can anyone recommend a witty and informed guide for Angkor
and where I might find this enlightened one....? i.e.,
which guest house to go to? Also, where is the most
reliable place to buy Angkor passes from? I've heard that
some local touts "recycle" used ones and keep profit for
themselves (understandable I know in such a traumatised
country, but I would rather my Riel go to preserving the
ruins and support the local people through other
means...)
Also does anyone know what days Lao Aviation fly from Phnom
Penh to Vientianne..
On a final note, what's the weather like in Cambodia and
Laos during June?
Thanks very much for your help! I hope I can assist others
once I've visited these fascinating countries..
[Posts on this topic: 2. Latest post: Wed 19 May, 8:52].
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I┤d appreciated any info, schedules, cost, etc to make it
overland from
Bangkok to Ko Samui via Surat Thani and then boating to the
island, bus?
train? boat schedules and costs?
Also accomodation recomendation in Ko Samui welcome.
Thanks in advance
[Posts on this topic: 6. Latest post: Wed 26 May, 10:14].
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Do you think Japanese Encephalitis vaccination is necessary
for a 1 month trip - Malaysia Thailand Laos???
Has anyone heard of anyone contracting the disease??
What about Egypt Air??
Thanks
Gary Mac.
[Posts on this topic: 6. Latest post: Mon 24 May, 12:03].
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Simple question, is it worth while, or ever necessary to
book accommodation in Burma for the first day ? We arrive
about 10.30 in the morning and were thinking of getting
into town an then sorting out accommodation for a day or
two and also sorting out internal travel arrangements.
Any suggestions ?
.
Thanks
.
Kev
[Posts on this topic: 5. Latest post: Thu 20 May, 1:58].
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I am going to Thailand this Sunday the 23rd of May. I've been
several times before and have always rented motorbikes. Maybe
it's just me getting older and more cautious but I'm now
wondering about the legality of riding a motorbike in
Thailand when I don't hold a motorbike licence in my home
country (Australia). The latest lp says that to rent a
motorbike in Bangkok you need an International licence but
they don't differentiate between car and bike. In places such
as Phuket I know they don't ask to see an international
licence when you rent (sometimes no licence at all). I assume
some people have contact with the police as a result of
traffic accidents. Does anyone know what the deal is.
[Posts on this topic: 2. Latest post: Wed 19 May, 14:38].
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That is the choice. I have 5 weeks to spend this summer and
I can either cover Vietnam and extend the trip into Cambodia
('cause i really want to see Ankgor wat) or cruise around
peninsular Malaysia and check out the well travelled trail
between Medan and Bukittingi in Sumatra.
I heard Vietnam is somewhat though going (haggling over
everything isn't something I enjoy) and it's also moonsoon
season out there (I hate the rain).
Malaysia sounds alright though it might not be the most
exciting place in the region. I 'd like to visit more in
Indonesia than Sumatra but with the election coming up early
in June, I'd rather avoid Java. I'm also concerned that
trying to squeeze in a good tour of peninsular Malaysia and
a quick run through Sumatra might be too much to ask for a 5
week trip.
So what do you seasoned travellers reckon?
What shall it be Vietnam + Cambodia or Malaysia + Sumatra??
Thanks a bunch
[Posts on this topic: 1. Latest post: Thu 20 May, 1:30].
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Any ideas of a good medical clinic in Bangkok or Jakarta
where we can get some malaria meds and a Hep A booster? Any
idea on costs? What about the necessity of taking malaria
meds in Thailand (travelling by bike from south to north in
Octoberish). The CDC says malaria is only endemic along
the Burmese/Cambodian border but other comments on the
thorn three seem to indicate otherwise. Any thoughts?
[Posts on this topic: 4. Latest post: Fri 21 May, 14:57].
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I recently returned to Oz from a brief journey in SE Asia
and since I was flying via Bangkok was expecting to be given
a good going over by customs - not that I had anything to
hide but since I was by myself and in my early 20's thought
that would have been the target group. Got straight thru
without the slightest problem. It just made me wonder what
sort of experience regular travellers (on business etc) to
those countries have and are they targeted more or less
because of their frequency???
[Posts on this topic: 4. Latest post: Wed 19 May, 8:50].
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disappointed to hear someone refer to Thailand as 'the land
of fake smiles' - I think its the most brilliant country
I've been too and its the people that account for the
fabulous times I've had there. Is it just me or should I be
more cynical???
[Posts on this topic: 9. Latest post: Wed 19 May, 7:57].
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I'm travelling to SE Asia this summer and I'm taking
my new girlfriend with me. However, I'm a six foot
blond long haired, blue eyed muscle man. With all the
naive teenybopper types just out of school and just
growing out of Boyzone and Leonardo I would never be
short of female company. Should I leave her at home?
[Posts on this topic: 18. Latest post: Mon 24 May, 16:10].
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I have planned to visit the Perhentian
Islands in the beginning of August. How will the weather be
like? I only have eight days in Malaysia, should I spend
them on something else? I also planned to visit the Taman
Negara national park; is it nice? Is it good there in the
beginning of August? Thanks...
[Posts on this topic: 5. Latest post: Fri 21 May, 14:59].
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I'm planning to go trekking in Northern Thailand around
June/August, and as I want to travel as light as possible,
I wasn't planning on taking a sleeping bag - just a sleep
sheet. Should this be a problem in more remote areas - I
really don't know what to expect?
I was also wondering if wearing a pair of light-weight
walking shoe/trainers would be sufficient, or would light
weight walking boots be more advisable. I'm not expecting
to be trekking for very long lengths of time - maybe just
up to a week.
Thanks in advance for any advise...
[Posts on this topic: 2. Latest post: Fri 21 May, 1:42].
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My mum will be 60 in October and i'd like to suprise her
with a trip to either BKK or Bali (we could go before
October). She's a fun lady but i'm not sure which would
suit her the best. I've been to both places and each has
it's niceties. I can only take 7-9 days off work so it
would have to be a short trip. What do you think?
[Posts on this topic: 15. Latest post: Fri 21 May, 0:56].
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I heard there is a hanoi-beijing express train- anyone know anything about it? how much does it cost? how long does it take? how often does it run? any comments appreciated
[Posts on this topic: 1. Latest post: Wed 19 May, 7:00].
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I would like to go overland from KL to Bangkok. Is it
possile by bus or train? What's the cost and is there a
pass allowing me to stop in places form time to time?
Thanks.
[Posts on this topic: 6. Latest post: Thu 20 May, 12:18].
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In 2 months I wouls like to cross overland from Cambodia
(say Siem Reap) into Laos.
Is this possible, save, fun?
Who knows?
[Posts on this topic: 5. Latest post: Thu 20 May, 7:12].
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I'm planning to travel from Laos to Vietnam by surface.
Does anybody know if there are crossing points from either
Vieng Xai, Sop Hao, Nong Haet or Sop Hun to Vietnam? Are
there any buses from Phonsavan to the frontier? And is
travel by bus safe and recommended in Eastern Laos? Any
advice would be appreciated, thanks!
Parla
[Posts on this topic: 1. Latest post: Wed 19 May, 6:29].
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I will be travelling all over SE Asia, and will have some
prescription drugs on me. How strict are customs, in
general, on knowing exactly what each drug is used for? Is
it okay for them just to be in a labeled bottle, or do they
take heed of what the drugs treat?
The reason I ask is that a treatment I take is the same
treatment that is commonly used to treat a nasty STD!! I
don't want to be refused entry to a country on the grounds
of strong suspicion of having a disease I don't have!
Is it worth the risk, or am I better off trying to cope
without the prescription?
Thank you.
Alison
[Posts on this topic: 5. Latest post: Tue 25 May, 18:39].
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Hi
I went travelling around SE Asia last year for 6 months and
although I had all my injections and ate as carefully as I
could and didn't drink/clean my teeth in the water I was
still ill about 4 times (one time I was in hospital for 8
days). I loved SE Asia and am planning to go back again
this year so any tips that anyone might have about staying
healthy, or medication to take should I get ill again would
be much appreciated.
Thanks....
[Posts on this topic: 8. Latest post: Mon 24 May, 3:05].
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I'm thinking about a short trip to Vietnam. I have 2
possible times of the year to do this - in Oct or in Feb.
a) when would be the better time?
b) where are the best places to go? I'm looking at about
10 days to 2 weeks...
Cheers!
[Posts on this topic: 3. Latest post: Wed 19 May, 4:52].
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Hi
I┤m wondering which way is the chipest and best way to go
from Singapore to Penang?
How much do it cost?
THANKS!!!
[Posts on this topic: 8. Latest post: Sat 22 May, 2:15].
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Want to drag a couple fairly reluctent friends on the
Hanoi- Dien Bien Phu-Lai chau-Sapa-Hanoi circuit. How would
it be in August? Weather and road conditions? Will my
friends be eternally grateful, or will the curse the day
they agreed to follow my lead? Also... which direction is
best? And would training it to Lao Cai save time or money
or be more relaxed?
[Posts on this topic: 4. Latest post: Thu 20 May, 0:48].
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We are planning to tour around Mid north of thailand.
Has anyone driven around that area and can advise if it
realistic.
Is it safe if you are reasonably careful (road accidents
etc)?
Can you hire cars from Philok(Phissanalok)?
Obviously we would not be driving in Bangkok.
[Posts on this topic: 5. Latest post: Thu 20 May, 5:25].
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Could a foreigner with a wife and kid survive in Singapore
on $S2500/month?
[Posts on this topic: 5. Latest post: Fri 21 May, 15:04].
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I'll be honeymooning in Malaysia and Thailand this summer
for a month (backpacking), and I was wondering if any ladies
would like to share their perspectives for my soon to be
wife. I've been to SEA before, but this will be her first
time in SEA, and would particularly like to know
what to prepare for as a female. Any advice for her on
useful items to bring that we might not have thought of?
Any things she should be concerned/cautious of? Any things
she should look forward to as a first-timer? Thanks a bunch.
I'm not worried too much about safety, just want her to hear
a female's perspective of the place.
[Posts on this topic: 6. Latest post: Wed 19 May, 9:15].
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I am travelling to Thailand in July and I am interested in
going to Kanchanburi, and then on to the Burmese Border at
the Three Pagodas Pass. Can anybody tell me if the border
is still open for day trips into Burma and are there still
guesthouses in Kanchanburi, who can organise trips to the
Three Pagodas Pass.
Thanks for any assistance
[Posts on this topic: 4. Latest post: Wed 26 May, 1:06].
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I am looking for someone who lives in Bangkok who would
like to earn some extra money for a small amount of work.
I buy goods in Bangkok (arts, crafts, costume jewellery,
ladies scarves etc) for sale in my small shop in Australia.
I need someone local to source goods and purchase them. I
have an international shipping account so shipment is easy.
I will order goods about once a month, send the money
BEFORE purchase, and pay them money to buy the goods and
ship.
I can also arrange for other shop keepers to buy as well
which would mean more money for the person helping us.
If you think you can do this, then please e-mail me. I will
fly to Bangkok to meet you, discuss arrangements and show
goods we purchase. It will be a mutually profitable
arrangement.
[Posts on this topic: 2. Latest post: Wed 19 May, 2:38].
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I have planned to visit the Taman Negara national park in
the beginning of August. How will the weather be like? I
only have eight days in Malaysia, should I spend them on
something else? I also planned to visit the Perhentian
Islands; how are they? Is it good there in the beginning of
August? Thanks...
[Posts on this topic: 3. Latest post: Fri 21 May, 11:59].
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Tell me about your experiences with 'Bangcock' pros.
Gay stories welcome. Don't be shy, we all love this type of mail, just don't like to admit it!!!!
[Posts on this topic: 10. Latest post: Fri 21 May, 7:26].
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I'll be on my way to Kathmandu and will have to wait 17
hours at Bangkok airport for my connecting flight. (3pm to
10am next day!) WHAT DO YOU DO FOR 17 HOURS AT AN
AIRPORT??????? Nope, I ain't going into Bangkok cos I'm
alone, never been anyway ON my OWN...and I'm quite nervous
really! Oh help! ANYONE wanna meet up at Bangkok Airport on
20th May???? HUH?
[Posts on this topic: 9. Latest post: Wed 26 May, 6:50].
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How to go from Padang to Java?
1/ Road: I heard the buses in South Sumatra are terrible.
But it is worth considering if the road has some interesting
sites?
2/ Sea: I read there is one ferry going from Padang to
Jakarta. How is it? Which class should I take? What's the
schedule.
I would appreciate any tips, shared experience regarding
this long journey between Sumatra and Java.
[Posts on this topic: 2. Latest post: Thu 20 May, 14:08].
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I'll be going to China, Laos, Cambodia, Thailand, Vietnam,
and the Philippines with some friends at the end of June
into the start of September... i have already paid for my
flight from N.America to Beijing and back, which leaves me
with roughly 3700CDN to spend on food, accommodations, and
entertainment. Will this be enough for a 2.5 month
adventure such as this?
Thanks a lot, and i'll appreciate any feedback :)
[Posts on this topic: 2. Latest post: Wed 19 May, 21:03].
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how safe is travel generally in thailand..i,am a single,male
traveller who is going there in august. any tips on how to
travel safely,situations and places to avoid.
[Posts on this topic: 8. Latest post: Mon 17 May, 12:42].
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For everyone who likes to travel in Bangkok by bus,
check this webpage http://www.bmta.motc.go.th/index-e.html
it's from the Bmta and has all route info, prices and
explanation of the meaning of the colors of different
busses. Seems up 2 date to me. I'm in Bangkok now.
More than once people asked me for this information.
So hope to help at least some people out with this post.
Happy Travels.. And also Bangkok can be a very nice part of
your travels.
[Posts on this topic: 5. Latest post: Wed 19 May, 22:42].
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A friend and I will be travelling to Thailand this July and
are pretty keen to go trekking in north Thailand. We plan
to be in Chiang MAi for a while anyway but I have heard
plenty people slating treks from there. Is it worth taking
something from CM or going soemwhere else nearby?
Your thoughts anyone?
Ta
Ross
[Posts on this topic: 4. Latest post: Wed 19 May, 11:57].
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could anyone give me any advice about travelling solo in
thialand,malaysia and indonesia. i will be travelling there
in the summer and this is my 1st trip alone and would like
info on safety,accomodation for a single traveller and
anything else which will make my first solo trip a
memorable one...thanks..daniel
[Posts on this topic: 5. Latest post: Tue 18 May, 22:11].
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Sorry folks, it's me again...
I have a couple of enquiries:
First, does anybody know of any good, reasonably priced
bookshops in HK. I'm reliably informed that English
language books are expensive and rare. I don't want to take
many with me because of the weight, but they do help to
pass the time on trains/planes etc. Secondhand is fine,
esp. interested in fiction.
Secondly, I obviously want to take loads of photos but have
been told that older people, those in rural areas of SE
Asia and pregnant women may object (not that I intend to
take many photos of pregnant women). I came across this a
little when in Tunisia. I don't want to offend anyone so
has anyone any views or guidance?
Many thanks in advance,
Steve
[Posts on this topic: 7. Latest post: Sun 23 May, 4:02].
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Help from experienced SEA travellers please, mixed reports
on what malaria tablets to take either Doxy or Mefolquine?
I have heard bad reports on the mefolquine ie Larium are
there any others out there that have had bad times on this
one? What did you do? I am travelling for a year all over..
please help I am leaving on the 31st of May. Thanks for any
help. Thanks to all the people out there who answered my
other lot of questions.
[Posts on this topic: 7. Latest post: Sat 22 May, 2:00].
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Anyone know what the air fare is from Bangkok to Khon Kaen?
Thankyou.
[Posts on this topic: 4. Latest post: Mon 24 May, 6:58].
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I'm hoping to go to Bangladesh this summer and would
appreciate any information/recommendations from recent
travels. I'll probably be in Dhaka most of the time, so any
good restaurants, tips, interestings things to do would be
great. I do hope to get out of the city so I'd also like
ideas of some of the more unique places to travel in the
country.
[Posts on this topic: 5. Latest post: Sat 22 May, 1:15].
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For those that have traveled long term in Asia -- do you do
your own laundry, or do you typically pay somebody (guest
house owner, laundromat) to do it? If so, is this
expensive? Have you found it better to bring along some
Woolite and do your own?
Thank you.
[Posts on this topic: 18. Latest post: Fri 14 May, 3:02].
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This 120lb (9 stone or thereabouts) girl has packed her
pack for her first trip abroad, and is currently weighing
in at 46 lbs. HELP!! Please, there's no need to tell of the
pros of packing light, what I need is feedback...
What items (clothing aside) have you taken with you on
extended (6-7month) trips through Asia that you've not
used? I have taken every piece of advice I've read, and
packed plenty of deet-containing repellant, all my guide
books, chain to secure my pack, duct tape, complete first
aid kit, etc. I've cut out all non-essentials (moisturizer,
rope, sweaters, etc) and I can still barely lift it. Please
don't remind me of how silly I am to overpack, I just need
advice on things I may not need so that I can rectify the
situation! I'm going to be in Thailand, Cambodia, Laos,
Vietnam, Burma, Nepal, Egypt and Turkey.
Thanks!
Angela
[Posts on this topic: 15. Latest post: Mon 24 May, 14:56].
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Hi all. I'm in Bangkok at the moment. Rain, rain, rain,
almost swimming from Siam Square to Khao San Road every
evening. I'm heading to Cambodia next (Poipet-Siem
Reap-Phnom Penh-Sihanoukville). Can anyone tell me what the
weather situation is like at the moment? Does the monsoon
affect visits to Angkor Wat or is the rain limited to the
evening as here in Bangkok? - Thanx heaps.
[Posts on this topic: 8. Latest post: Thu 20 May, 23:13].
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Does anyone know of anywhere in Thailand (preferably
North) where I could go for a month or so to learn Thai
Boxing? Any info on where, how much, quality etc greatly
appreciated,
Thanks, David
[Posts on this topic: 2. Latest post: Mon 17 May, 22:42].
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My sister and I are planning on a trip to Vietnam - probably
next year - for about 2 weeks.
When is the best time to go?
Which are the best places to go?
Thanks in advance
[Posts on this topic: 10. Latest post: Thu 20 May, 2:35].
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i'm planning to go overland from bangkok to hanoi, using
savannakhet to dong ha as a crossing point.i'm sorting out
a vietnamese visa at the momment, does anyone know how long
this journey will take,roughly, and also whether i will
need a laos visa just to nip across the country without
stopping (in transit as it were).if this journey is
possible with relative ease,i plan to stay in hanoi for a
few weeks then travel back overland through the north of
laos, taking a couple/few weeks to see a bit of the
country.are there any border crossings in that area,ie near
sam neua with the aim of getting to luang prabang and
vientanne, without having to travel back down vietnam??
[Posts on this topic: 5. Latest post: Sat 22 May, 1:42].
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I am on my fourth year in the Land of Smiles. Sometimes
I get the urge to return to the USA and get some government
job to collect a pension. Has anyone returned after being
an expat? What was the result? Should I stay or should I
go?
[Posts on this topic: 18. Latest post: Wed 26 May, 1:01].
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Don't get me wrong - I have many Vietnamese friends in
Australia and they don't behave the way that the Vietnamese
behaved in their own country. I still believe that people
who like Vietnam haven't been to enough other countries to
know the difference.
I suggest try going to Laos or Pakistan first. People in
these countries are just as poor but don't treat you like
shit like the majority do in Vietnam. Go there before you
go to Vietnam and you will know exactly what I am saying.
Finally, can someone tell what other country could a bus
driver take your money, then speed away from you seconds
before you board and have everyone stick their heads out
the windows and laugh in your face?
[Posts on this topic: 24. Latest post: Mon 24 May, 22:40].
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Has anyone used the Cathay Pacific All-Asia Pass? It
allows you to travel from USA to SEA for up to 31 days
unlimited travel through 16 cities for $999. I'm leaving
in late June, early July. I understand you have to plan
out the entire itinerary ahead of time, and I'm in the
process of doing so, however you must travel through Hong
Kong almost every leg of the way. Anybody done this?
Thanks in advance!
[Posts on this topic: 8. Latest post: Tue 18 May, 7:23].
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I'm interested in the Lao Government's decision to let
tourists into the country in the early 1990s...
Those of you who have been to Laos, do you think this was a
wise decision?
What's your opinion about the way tourism is developing ?
Will you go back ?
[Posts on this topic: 13. Latest post: Tue 25 May, 16:56].
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Although I met some really nice people in Vietnam, on the
whole, the trip was a very unpleasant one. I have come to
the conclusion that people who enjoy Vietnam are either
1. Fucked in the head
2. Haven't been to enough other countries to know the
difference!
Here are a few tips from a long term traveller who has been
to a wide range of countries
1. Watch out for pickpockets. I had only been in the
country for 1 minute at Cao Treo when I had someone with
his hands in my pockets. This is amazing because the town
probably only has 100 poeple in it. They probably come here
because they know that our guard will be down after the
honest people in Loas. The guys weren't sucessful with me,
but I met an English guy who had something stolen there. Be
careful where ever you go. Vietnamese like to touch and you
don't know who is being friendly, and who is after your
stuff. There is a huge drug problem in the country with
heroin, and a lot of these people are desperate for their
next hit. Don't expect any help from the police. Apparently
the police will expect a bribe before processing your claim
and then won't do anything.
My second is gripe is the general greed of the people. For
example, I had one bus driver who wanted US$70 for a small
bus trip. I was able to winnow him down to 20,000 Dong, but
it just shows the hide that these guys have got. Ditto with
food. Nothing is set in Vietnam, and you will have to
haggle over EVERYTHING.
My third gripe is why the hell do foreigners have to pay
over 3x the price as locals for trains? No other country in
the world does it, so why Vietnam?
My next gripe is the amount of hassling that we recieve.
Unless you can go with a local, you will be hassled at
EVERY shop and by every passing local. There is no way that
you can window shop in peace. It is much worse than in
Cairo, Agra, Phuket ar anywhere that I have ever been. It
WILL get to you.
My final gripe is the attitude that the locals have to
foreigners. People are quite reasonable in the large cites,
but get into the small towns and villages and people are
real arseholes. I know beacuse I cycled through much of the
country. In China, if someone can't speak in English, he
will not try to talk to you (that's the way I like it)
unless you try to talk to him in Chinese. However in
Vietnam, in small towns, everyone will try to talk to you
in Vietnamese. If you cannot speak Vietnamese, within half
a minute, someone will crack a smart-arsed joke about you
(knowing that you don't understand) and everyone around
will laugh. This is OK for a couple of times (it also
happens in Indonesia to a lesser extent), but after the
first dozen or so times, it really gets to you. Maybe I saw
more small villages than the average tourist because i was
cycling, but you will recive the same treatment more or
less. Also don't expect people to be more reasonable in
small towns. I found them greedier and than anywhere else
and hassle you just as much. Just because they have never
seen a foreigner doesn't mean that they won't try the usual
tricks.
I am not say all of this to put Vietnam down. I am saying
all of this because if you are thinking of going there, I
suggest DON'T. If it is a cheap cultural experience that
you are after with lots of friendly people, I suggest
Laos, Nepal or Pakistan. If you must go, go ahead. But when
you come back, you will know why I wrote this message.
[Posts on this topic: 47. Latest post: Tue 11 May, 20:31].
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Call me naive, but who decides which countries are
politically correct to visit, and which are not? Has some
worldwide organisation - eg Amnesty International - compiled
an official list with ratings, viz:
1. Burma - definitely no go, foul regime; long way away
from the West, limited Western investment;
2. China - also nasty regime, especially re Tibet, but much
Western investment so we must be careful not to offend them;
3. Indonesia - formerly very nasty regime; Suharto
massacred one million (far more than Ne Win); East Timor;
but huge Western investment; better not to jeopardize
investment;
4. Malaysia - Mahathir is a nasty piece of work and not
exactly Western-style democracy but massive Western
investment;
5. Singapore - again very nasty Government who (often
secretly) quash all opposition and totally censor the
press, huge investors in Burma and support the SPDC, but we
can ignore that; great for shopping and eating; better
remain ambivalent;
6. Laos - hardly a democracy but no Western politicians
have heard of the place so who gives a shit;
7. Vietnam - tricky one; UK are major investors and Prince
Andrew recently visited. Tourism is booming and they did
suffer badly in the war; not exactly democratic government
so probably OK;
8. Cambodia - totally corrupt governments, almost all evil,
but we did invest a lot in their elections, difficult one;
9. Cuba - not Asia (well spotted) and Castro's a bastard,
so what? Tourism to Cuba is fine, say all the UK tour
operators;
Not listed: North Korea (dreadful government but we must
help them and not boycott them and so we'll support them
but we won't support the Burmese, because that's what is
termed politically incorrect).
South America - a lengthy list of highly dodgy
regimes; Africa - ditto, etc, etc.
So I'm off to celebrate the millennium in Norway.
[Posts on this topic: 37. Latest post: Sun 9 May, 14:27].
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At 28, I'm about to embark on my first long-term trip
around the world, thoughts of resignation letters filling
my head, as my plan is finally coming to fruition!
.
I have no choice but to quit my job. Two weeks a year, (if
one squirrels away each and every hour) is nothing like
enough time to travel. I work your average 9-5 middle
management job. Paid leaves rare, unpaid ones just as
uncommon.
.
How do other Americans cope with this? I could teach, but
with the rotten wages here, saving for future travels would
be hard. This is the first of many trips for me, I need
wisdom on how to keep the ball rolling! How do others
manage?
Thanks!
[Posts on this topic: 18. Latest post: Sun 23 May, 3:12].
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This is a true story. Five years ago I was on a student
exchange program in Thailand doing research. One of the
other American students, a bright and attractive young lady,
was writing a research paper about Prostitution in Thailand.
Her point of view was basically the same as Froggy's,
Mattie's, et al. that prostitution in Thailand was a
phenemonen that involved indentured servitude, female and
child exploitation, and catered primarily to decadent
Western (and Chinese) men. When I asked her how she was
conducting her research, she explained that she was doing it
in the library. I politely suggested that it might be a
good idea to go to a "Go Go Bar", and talk to the women
there about their life and see if it corresponded to her
academic theories. At this point she became somewhat
enraged and told me that she would never NEVER step into
such an establishment. I invite Mattie, Froggy, and all of
their friends to go to a go go bar or a massage parlor and
meet the women who work there and see for how long their
academic theories hold up under the bright glare of the neon
lights, or how long these women are even willing to listen
to Mattie and Froggy. the fact of the matter is the Western
patronage of Prostitution services in Asia is but a blip on
the screen compared to other nationalities. In Thailand the
minimum wage is roughly 200 baht perday. Go go girls and
massage parlors get a fifty percent cut of the "Ka Doo-ah"
literally "body fee", and the tip is all theirs. In Bangkok
a massage parlor fee, on average is 1200 baht, a bar fine is
400 baht. So a woman that services two customers a night at
a Massage Parlor earns 1200 baht, and with an average tip
500, add another thousand, for a grand total of 2200 an
evening, or more than ten times the minimum wage. To add
some perspective on this there are a few brothels with
underage prostitutes who are indentured servants. These,
like most of the underworld activities in Thailand, are
controlled by the police. Prostitution is has been part of
Thai and Asian culture long before the Western sex trade.
And even supposing that Mattie's thesis is correct--that the
Western men that come here are too ugly or undesireable to
"score" in their own country, so what? What is the point?
That they should stay home and suffer so as not to offend
Mattie and Froggy? Do you really believe that no genuine
feelings of affection can occur between a professional and a
customer? These are two human beings coming together in an
intimate situation. I would venture that the majority of
Western men that seek prostitutes in Asia are not primarily
searching for sex, although they may believe that they
are, but are rather searching for companionship. America
and other developed Western countries are often soulless
barren places where it is difficult to connect with other
people. That is why people return to places like Thailand,
where there is still some human warmth. If it makes any
difference, and I don't think it has any bearing on my
arguments at all, I don't use prostitutes because I am
happily married, don't feel the need at this point in my
life, can't spare the money, and my wife would torture me
with guilt if I did.
[Posts on this topic: 106. Latest post: Tue 20 April, 2:41].
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The great two week world tour of Thailand
Buy lonely planet guide to Thailand
Rip out the disclaimer in the front section we don't need
that
Set up a hotmail email address
Buy the largest back pack you can find then fill it up with
things you wont be able to get in Thailand soap, toothpaste,
film, razors etc
Get the cheapest flight to Thailand (moan about the price to
anybody that will listen)
Day 1
Arrive Bangkok wander around the airport finally dig out the
L-P guide and head for khao San Road
Find the cheapest guest house you can find crash out
Wander up and down KSR wonder of wonders here in the third
world you can buy all those goods sitting in your backpack
and its cheaper
So you sit by the road rant and rave about saving $10 on
buying all those goodies here
Find other backpackers and start pumping them for
information on going up north
Spend all day long wandering up and down KSR looking for
that bargain travel to Chang Mai but everybody is quoting
around the same price
Remember I am a budget traveller must keep the costs down
Discover the night bus to Chang Mai with free guesthouse
room at the other end
Great saves money staying in a guesthouse
There isn't a catch is there?
Day 2
Walk to the grand palace wander round haven't bothered to
check the guide about standards of dress I mean all us
backpackers wear shorts and t-shirts that's ok
Get caught out you have to wear long trousers oh shit
A nice man out side offers a Tuk Tuk ride tour of the city
special price to you 20 Baht
4 hours latter been to tailors / gem shops/ gold shops etc
etc all part of the tour
Hungry now must have some good Thai food Mc Donald's that's
foreign food isn't it ?
You are sitting in Mc Donald's a man wearing a business
suit comes up to you and asks
Can I practice my English with you
Lets be polite I am now in his country ok lets talk
Turns out the man is a dealer in precious stones and hey its
a special buddist holiday do you want to come and see me at
work?
Why not it will kill some time
So we go to a gem shop he explains at length this is a
government licensed shop and the government is very strict
about gem dealers some are bad and the government is
stamping on them
So after about 30 minutes lots of explanations on cut
clarity etc of various stones you are told stones are very
cheap here in Thailand and you can double your money
After a long think about it you buy $100 worth of stones
that's the emergency funds gone but what the heck $200 easy
money back home
Go to Patpong see naked ladies dance all very exciting
wander along Patpong
a man says "want to see sex a show"
You say "you bet" so you go upstairs to some dingy club see
a sordid sex show and are presented with a bill for over
$100 for a beer
Some big heavies come out off hiding and it slowly dawns on
you that you are being scammed
So you Pay up Go to the tourist police at the end of Patpong
road and explain what happens they just smile and take you
back to the club and get some of your money back
Day3
You have hooked up with some other backpackers
After some looking around you find a tailor and arrange a
suite to be made and pick it up just before you leave
Thailand great price
Its now the weekend so we go to the weekend market must be
by bus it's the cheapest way
Shit shit shit all that stuff I bought in KSR is cheaper
here
Travel overnight to Chang Mai
Day 4
Arrive at a guest house get greeted by the family who run it
There's a man here he's a tour guide do you want to go
trekking?
Here's my recommendation book look loads of happy customers
Sorry I need to wash up and have a little sleep still a bit
jet lagged
Okay talk to you latter says the tour guide
so all day long various members of the guesthouse try to
sell you a trek
Do I buy lets go cheek the L-P book try Tha Phae gate
looking for treks everybody selling treks tours all
different prices which one shall I go for
Now I remember we go for the cheapest I am on a budget
I find the cheap trek tell tour guide in the guest house
Suddenly you must check out of the guesthouse by 8 am
tomorrow
Why I thought check out was midday
No the smiling owner says this is Thailand must you check
out by 8am
Discover the night bazaar lets go shopping look there is a
nice hilltribe bag that all the backpackers have its just
about the right size so I can put my L-P guide in instead of
wandering around with it in my daypack or in my hand.
Funny here all the Tuk Tuk drivers want to take me to some
place called San Kamphaeng it's a craft village very nice
stuff they make silver / gold/ wood carvings and furniture
plenty of nice things very cheap right ????
You can watch the craftsmen working on there products
Day 5
Go trekking wander up and down some hills really nice here
spend a night in a village
Look at all those kids lets give them sweets or money
Let's get the camera out lets take lots of Photos doesn't
need to ask anybody do I?
Day 6
Spend next day on an elephant safari all very exciting
Travel to another village spend the night there
By now you get up the courage to ask about opium shit wrong
time of year not much about and it's very expensive
Day 7
Next day go rafting all very exciting and not expensive this
is great
So you go back to Chang Mai the tour guide knows someone
with a good guest house it's a good place hot shower very
cheap okay lets go there then
We go the nice guest house got to go south soon not many
days left
Time is running out must scrap the trip to Doi Suthep its
only one of those temple things what's special about that
one
Day 8
Get a cheap bus to Bangkok then cheap bus to Surat Thani
funny thing about these cheap buses they are all full of
foreigners no Thais on them at all!
A man at the bus station says he can get ferry a ticket for
you
So you go with him get a ticket and get dumped at the jetty
start talking to other people
Day 9
Shit been stiffed again could have bought the ticket across
the road for much less money
Funds are drying up must be more careful with my money
Must find a cheap bungalow somewhere near Chaweng beach
So you wander up and down you really wanted to go diving but
its expensive and they don't give discount
Find a Thai restaurant and go for the cheapest food on the
menu sleep of all that bus travel
Day 10
Been rushing around to much its now time for some serious
work on my tan
Spend all day on the beach gets to the night time must go
out just for just 1 beer
so you find a bar and have a beer
A pretty Thai girl starts to talk to you she says lets play
a game we play connect four or dominoes but not for free if
I win you buy me one drink OK?
5 drinks later you finally figure out you've been had
So lets wander down Chaweng beach its getting late now
what's that its the Green Mango hey it's a free night club
lets have a dance its getting late its past midnight
Suddenly there is lot of Thai woman all tall long hair big
breasts real sexy woman
okay lets move in one
No problem end up taking one back to the bungalow
She takes off her clothes what's that it's a penis oh shit
it's a man anyway a holes a hole
You wake up next morning wallets gone been through your
stuff taken what they can sell
That's funny he/she did not take the rubies
Down to the tourist police excuse me mister policeman I have
been robbed they give you the look (stupid farang you can
afford it)
But I am a budget traveller I cant afford all this
Down to the post office make a collect call home help send
money out now!
Day 11
Spend all day hanging around waiting for some money to be
sent out great I can afford to fly to Bangkok check out
Bangkok airways book a ticket to Bangkok
Money turns up pay off all my bills
Wait a minute I been so busy I forgot the email thing I set
up lets check out see if it worked?
So you find an internet cafΘ check your e-mails send some
e-mail to friends saying what a great time you are having
etc etc
Now lets get out of town
Day 12
Arrive Bangkok into town
You go to the embassy get a new passport
Then you go to the airline get a new ticket issued
Then back to KSR
Do some sorting out got to cancel those credit cards and
those travellers cheques
Pick up that suite that I had made
End up feeling sorry for yourself spend the evening in a
cheap bar in KSR
Day 13
Fly home
Some days latter
That suite you had made starts to fall apart its poor
quality trash
You try to sell those rubies and find out they're worthless
Yes they are real rubies but they are of poor quality
You start to have pain when passing water and you find out
you have a sexually transmitted disease
You cant lose face so you go around telling your friends had
a great time what a great place Thailand is and I am quite
an expert on all things Thai now
But next year you go a normal holiday with your parents
In the mean time you lie in bed at night worrying about the
AIDS your are going to have to take
[Posts on this topic: 48. Latest post: Fri 23 April, 12:55].
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Have just returned from a 3 month holiday in asia; am now
back to work and feeling extremely Blah! Cohorts and peers
at my job don't understand and think I'm crazy; am already
planning and researching our next one to the middle east
for next year. Every time I come home from travelling I
feel different like I don't belong and have nothing in
common with others. They listen to a few travel tales and
have a perfunctory glance at our photos and then they have
had enough. (too bad the whole world does not revolve
around travelling!). Anyone else feel as I do? Interested
in hearing how others cope after returning from a journey.
[Posts on this topic: 54. Latest post: Sun 25 April, 16:31].
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Hi,
We are a group of French people leaving in Shanghai. We are
planning to visit Myanmar for Christmas. Thanks for any
good advices anybody may have for the organization of our
tour outside of Yangoon. Accomodation, local transport by
minibus with driver,places to visit etc...
[Posts on this topic: 67. Latest post: Tue 11 May, 22:56].
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Dear Fellow Travellers...
Something tells me I'll catch some flack for this, but after
making 15 trips to Asia in as many years,this is my packing
checklist.
Yes, it's a lot of stuff. Yes, I travel "heavy". Yes, I'm
TOTALLY self sufficient, and prepared for ANY kind of travel
situation!
I never bring all of these things, but I always bring most
of them, especially the lighter items. I figure: if it's
small and doesn't weigh much, what the heck --- I might as
well bring it since I'm taking all that other junk anyway.
WASH UP & MEDICAL KIT
Shaving cream, razor, extra blades
Deoderant, hand soap, washcloth, headband
Shampoo, comb
Toothbrush, toothpaste, toothpicks, floss
Vitamins, aspirin, cold pills
Sudafed, Nasal Spray, SwimmerÆs ear drops
Eyedrops, eyemask, Melatonin
Nail clipper, tweezers, Q-tips
Condoms, etc.
Imodium
Bandages, Neosporin
Sunscreen, lip balm
Mosquito repellent, insect sting reliever
Small padlock, tie-wraps
Drain stopper (for sinks and bathtubs without one!)
MISC.
Daypack
Umbrella
Compass (OK, youÆre walking in Bangkok and the sign says
Ratchadamri Road. But which direction are you going?)
Nylon cord, adhesive/sealing tape (Always gets used up)
Ziplock bags, big plastic bags
Knife, fork, spoon, chopsticks (option)
Swiss army knife, mini scissors
Flashlight w/extra batteries, bulbs
2 or 3 lighters, Candles
Laundry soap, vegetable scrubber (for scrubbing clothes &
cleaning shoes!)
Toilet paper
Bath towel, loufa (it weighs nothing and will scrape away
that ground in backpacker dirt!)
Mosquito net (option)
Inflatable pillow (option)
Sleeping sheet (option) (a bedsheet sewn up like a sleeping
bag; good for warm climates and good when your guesthouse
bed is grungy!)
Immersion heater, camping pot (option)
instant food, snack foods (option)
Particle mask (for walking in Bangkok!)
READING/WRITING/REFERENCE (PERMANENT)
Zipper envelope w/pens, pencils, envelopes, paper
Mini world atlas
Address book
Visa photos
Extra business/personal cards
BOOKS
Reading books
Guidebooks
Local maps
Songbook
GIFTS / SHOW & TELL
Little presents
Photos of self, home, family, etc.
U.S. postcards
Old stamps (a cheap bagful from a collector's shop ---
light, cheap educational gift for kids!)
VALUABLES & CARRY-ON
Passport
TravelerÆs checks (w/seperate list of numbers)
Personal checks, visa photos
Money belt (to wear INSIDE your clothing)
Cash & local currency
Plane tickets
Sunglasses (worn at ônightö to help beat jet lag on the
plane), glasses case
Ear plugs, eye mask, Melatonin (in carry on bag)
CLOTHES
Nylon pants (great for travelling!), other pants, jeans
(option) (not great for travelling)
4-7 prs underwear
4-7 prs socks
1-2 pr shorts
1 swimsuit
4-7 T-shirts
2 good shirts
pr walking shoes w/extra laces (They WILL break just when
you donÆt want them to!)
pr good shoes (option)
Sports sandals (Better than cheap Asian ôflip flopsö, which
are named that because they have no traction --- Wear them
to the outside toilet at night and when you step into the
first puddle, youÆll flip flop right onto your ass!)
OTHER MEDICAL ITEMS (all optional)
Flagyl (in case of dysentary)
Antibiotics, Dettol, etc. (for first aid; this stuff will
kep infections from getting worse in Asia)
Moleskin (for trekking; in case of blisters)
Thermometer
Acetazolamide (for altitude illness if trekking on high
mountains)
PHOTO, ETC. (all optional)
Camcorder & acces. incl. remote
Camera
Camera kit w/25mm lens, flash, paper, batteries
Extra lenses, U/V, Sun, other filters
Tripod, beanbag
Film & extra film!
Mini binoculars
ELECTRONICS (all optional)
Shortwave radio, antenna, directory
Calculator, Telephone extension cord (more for business
travel --- sometimes itÆs great to have a nice long phone
cord in the hotel room)
AC adaptors, extension cord, etc.
Mosquito zapper & tablets (Like an ôelectricö mosquito coil;
buy it in any Asian dept. store, it really works)
HIKING/TREKKING GEAR (all optional)
Hiking boots w/oil & extra laces (for serious trekking
only!)
parka
2-4 prs heavy wool socks
Altimeter
[Posts on this topic: 134. Latest post: Mon 24 May, 10:43].
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