DESTINATION • SOUTH EAST ASIA 1

Destination SOUTH EAST ASIAImportant information to help you prepare for your upcoming Exodus trip.

We have put this guide together to provide you with as many of the tips and insights we’ve picked up over the years of running tours in this region. The information has been gathered from our local partners, Exodus staff as well as past Exodus travellers, and we hope will assist you when making your final preparations over the coming weeks.

Please read it in conjunction with your Joining Instructions and the Trip Notes for your holiday, to ensure you are fully prepared.

FACT BOX:

CAMBODIA

MALYSIANBORNEO

INDONESIA

VIETNAM

LAOS

THAILAND

Sawasdee kharp/ka! Sua s’dei! Sabai-dii! Xin chao!I hope that you are looking forward to your trip to South East Asia.

You will soon be meandering down the mighty Mekong River in Laos, taking a ride on the Reunification Express through the beautiful countryside in Vietnam, being awe struck at the amazing sight of Angkor Wat at sunrise in Cambodia or enjoying the buzz of Thai hospitality. Whichever part of this beautiful region you are visiting, you will love the friendly people, rich culture, geographical diversity and beauty, and the delicious regional cuisine. Plus the shopping bargains to be had of course!

Megan Devenish, South East Asia Product Manager

THAILAND Currency • Baht (THB) Capital City • Bangkok Dialling code • +66

Time zone • +07:00hr

LAOS Currency • Kip (LAK) Capital City • Vientiane Dialling code • +856

Time zone • +07:00hr

INDONESIA Currency • Rupiah (IDR) Capital City • Jakarta Dialling code • +62

Time zone • +07:00hr

VIETNAM Currency • Dong (VND) Capital City • Hanoi Dialling code • +84

Time zone • +07:00hr

CAMBODIA Currency • Riel (KHR) Capital City • Phnom Penh Dialling code • +855

Time zone • +07:00hr

MALAYSIA Currency • Ringgit (RM) Capital City • Kuala Lumpur Dialling code • +60

Time zone • +08:00hr

Facts correct as of April 2016

DESTINATION • SOUTH EAST ASIA 2

MONEY & COSTS

SPENDING MONEYObtaining local currency in South East Asia is quite straightforward. All major western currencies are easily changed and there are plenty of exchange offices and banks in all towns and cities. Almost all hotels will also have an exchange facility at reception.

Staff Tip:

"If you’re crossing borders on your trip, you will most likely end up with a variety of currencies in your pocket at some point! Anything you have will be changeable into the currency of whatever country you’re in at any point, so don’t worry too much about trying to work out exactly how much to change and when."

There is no real benefit to getting local currency in advance before you travel, as you can change money as soon as you arrive at the airport, but there’s nothing wrong with having a small amount to get you started, if you like. The leader will advise you when and where it's best to change, and there is usually little difference in the rates you will find.

US dollars function almost as a second currency in some regions (although not legal tender), especially Cambodia and Vietnam, and you can usually use them to pay if you get stuck. Smaller stores and restaurants may only take local currency, however.

ATMS & USING CARDSATMs are available in all larger towns and cities. There is usually a flat fee added for every withdrawal made from an international bank account at ATMs (in addition to any fees charged by your own bank) so it's advisable to only make large cash withdrawals rather than taking out small sums as you go. Some ATMs, especially in Cambodia, will dispense money in US dollars rather than the local currency, but any change you receive will always be the local currency.

APPROXIMATE COSTSThe below costs can vary through the region. You’ll pay more in the smarter restaurants and shops of Bangkok, and costs will be towards the lower end in the smaller towns of Cambodia and Laos, which can be very cheap.

Large bottle of water £1

Lunch £4-8

Dinner £8-15

Short tuk tuk ride £1

FOOD & DRINKThe food you’ll find across the region is definitely one of the highlights of any trip to South East Asia, and we have included some suggestions for regional specialities later in the guide. The standard and quality of restaurants is usually very good, and you’ll also be impressed by what can be produced at the smaller cafés and homestays.

Larger cities such as Bangkok and Saigon have a nightlife to rival anything you’ll find around the world, with prices to match, but you’ll most often be eating in smaller locally run restaurants, where the food is simple but delicious!

You’ll also come across the ubiquitous food stalls and markets across the region selling tasty insect treats, everything from large tarantulas cooked in garlic, to bags of roasted crickets. They might not take your fancy straight away but they can be surprisingly tasty, as well as nutritious!

HOTEL & FACILITIES

ACCOMMODATION INFORMATIONThe hotels in South East Asia are generally of a very good standard, with air conditioning, spacious rooms and, for the most part, centrally located. Because certain regions have only opened up to tourism relatively recently, in the past 15 years or so, a lot of the hotels Exodus use are newly built (but usually in a traditional style). More remote areas, or homestays, can have more basic facilities but these are often more than compensated for by the location.

You won’t need to take mosquito nets with you, as the hotel windows will have sliding, mosquito proof panels on the windows. In homestays or accommodation such as longhouses, proper nets will be provided.

LAUNDRY, TOWELS & HAIRDRYERSLaundry is offered in almost all hotels, although you will usually need a two night stay in order to have time to get what you need done. Costs are pretty cheap, at about $1 – $2 per kilo, and the leader can help you arrange if needed. All hotels will have hairdryers and towels, although you may want to consider bringing travel versions for any homestay nights.

WI-FI + PHONE RECEPTIONAn internet connection will be available in most hotels, in the lobby and also in the rooms. Phone reception should be available almost everywhere, as connectivity is very good in the region. In Borneo, internet access can be more limited and, while you will usually be able to find an internet café in most towns and cities, not every hotel has a connection and when it does, can be quite slow.

DRINKING WATERIt is not recommended to drink the tap water in South East Asia, but cheap bottled water is available everywhere. The weather can be very humid and hot, especially in summertime, so it’s important to always have plenty of drinking water and stay hydrated at all times.

PLUG

South East Asia has primarily two pin flat sockets, although you can get regional variations and a Universal Adaptor is recommended. For anyone travelling to Malaysian Borneo, sockets are the same as the UK.

DESTINATION • SOUTH EAST ASIA 3

CLOTHINGAny trip to the region is generally accompanied by fine and sunny weather, so light, breathable clothing is the best way to go. It can get quite hot and humid so you don't need anything too heavy, and items like denim jeans can be uncomfortable at warmer times of year.

While it may be shorts and t-shirts during the day, cotton or canvas trousers are good for evenings, as well as a light shirt or long sleeve top. You can get a tropical downpour at any time of year, so a light waterproof jacket is also a good idea. As most tours will involve a fair degree of sightseeing and walking, it’s recommended to take some comfortable, breathable shoes such as sandals, flip flops or lightweight walking shoes.

Staff Tip:

"The weather will be hot and humid mostly, with a chance of rain in a few places. But when it does rain, it generally dries up pretty quickly. It doesn't really get cold, but you may want a light jacket for night time. It's usually quite pleasant during the day, so it should be light clothes, with a layer you can add if you feel chilly."

It's usually very casual so you don't need to take any clothes or footwear that are too smart. Most people do tend to change for evening meals, as much for comfort as anything else. Finally, don’t forget some good water resistant suncream, UV sunglasses and a hat with a brim for shade.

HEALTHMost visits to South East Asia will involve passing through potentially malarial areas at some point and we suggest that you seek advice from your GP or travel health clinic about which malaria tablets to take. It’s a good idea to cover up ankles and wrists by wearing some longer clothing in the mornings and especially evenings, when the bugs are out in force. You may well pick up a few small bites but some anti-histamine cream will help. Some reliable bug spray is essential and this usually manages to keep most mozzies off. Apply in the mornings and again in the evenings, and perhaps a little during the day as needed. Sprays containing DEET are usually the best, although the stronger ones can cause skin irritation and sometimes discolouring of clothes. Some people also recommend taking some Vitamin B tablets for about a week before travelling, as this can help prevent mosquito bites.

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IF YOU’RE…

VISITING THAILAND Thailand is the travel hub of South East Asia, and the port of entry or exit for most visitors to the region. From the lush tropical jungles of the north to picture perfect islands off the southern coasts, it’s understandably popular with both backpackers and the more seasoned traveller alike. It’s popularity means it can get busy in certain destinations, but also means that it has a well-developed and maintained tourist infrastructure, which makes travelling here a fun and easy experience.

SIGHTS & EXCURSIONSAlmost everyone visiting Thailand will travel through Bangkok at some point. Loved by some, viewed with trepidation by others, it’s a city like no other in Asia. Packed in between the street markets and huge shopping centres, you’ll find a myriad of ancient temples and palaces, and are guaranteed to find something to suit every taste. The Cahtuchak weekend market is one of the largest in the world, and you should plan to spend a full day here if possible.

Travelling to the northern capital Chiang Mai couldn’t be more different, as this sleepy city set in tropical jungles seems perpetually lost in a slower way of life. Surrounded by moats and ancient temples, its’ night market is one of the most exciting in Asia, and justifiably famous as the place to pick up a bargain.

Massages are a big part of Thailand’s culture. Try to pick a massage centre frequented by locals, normally located outside the main touristy streets, as they are normally of a much higher standard. For the best massage in Bangkok, head to WatPo Thai Traditional Medical and Massage School. This place is known as the birthplace of traditional Thai massage and prices for a 1 hour massage normally range between 300-400 Bhats. (around £7 – bargain!)

Thailand is a very religious country, and tourists should dress discretely when visiting historical or religious sites, especially in cities like Bangkok, Ayutthaya or Chiang Mai. Most temples don’t allow entry if you are wearing shorts or vests so make sure you wear some long trousers and t shirts or shirts. In all temples they will ask you to remove your shoes so it’s always a good idea to keep a pair of flip-flop or sandals handy. If you want to travel light, don’t worry: there are plenty of street markets in Thailand where you can purchase very cheap long cotton trousers and linen shirts.

If you’re visiting the Erawan waterfalls or Tham Phraya Nakhon caves, its best to wear boots or sandals that are suitable for slippery surfaces, as it can get wet and muddy in places..

LOCAL SPECIALITIESThailand is famous for it's street food, and you can do no better than jostle elbows with the local office workers and sample such dishes as beef skewers with chillis, chicken satay and the ever popular Pad Thai. Head down to Thip Samai to try some of these dishes, and for some of the best fried noodles in the city.

Food hygiene in Thailand is of good standard and it’s rare to get an upset stomach, although you should avoid buying food from isolated stalls which are not part of a market.

SLEEPER TRAIN On the sleeper trains, the beds are folded down at night. There is generally a top bunk with no window and a lower bunk next to the window. Curtains pull over both the window and across the beds so that you can't be seen by people walking down the aisle of the train, and there are two toilets at the end of most carriages. It's advisable to bring your own toilet paper as this tends to run out quickly, and there aren’t any showers, so wet wipes for freshening up are recommended.

Exodus Client Tip:

“While staying in Hua Hin we visited a national park and climbed into the mountains to visit a cave. After the long climb we descended into the cave and then in a second chamber there was a temple. It was amazing, just like something out of Indiana Jones.” Caryl Gregory Classic Thailand

Staff Tip:

"Thais like their food with plenty of heat, but in most restaurants they will assume that farang (foreigners) won't want their food quite as spicy and you'll be asked if you want it "Thai style" or not. Vegetarians who don't eat fish may find it difficult to avoid fish oil, as this is used in the vast majority of Thai food. Ask your tour leader to check that this will not be used in cooking, even if you are ordering a vegetarian meal. Street food is wide ranging, cheap and generally of excellent quality. If a vendor is busy, it's usually sign of the food being good. Som Tum (spicy green papaya salad) highly recommended, and grilled chicken (Gai) with sticky rice is another. If you fancy a drink, local beers Singha and Chang are all available widely and will cost from 60 to 120 Baht, depending on where you are."

Staff Tip:

“When travelling around Bangkok, rather than spending hours breathing traffic fumes from a tuk-tuk, catch the elevated Skytrain to speed between points of interest around the city."

DESTINATION • SOUTH EAST ASIA 5

VISITING VIETNAM Vietnam is constantly surprising and evolving. The landscapes of vibrant green rice paddies, limestone sea cliffs and great rivers provide a backdrop to a culture that is as tenacious as it is fascinating. Much of life in Vietnam is lived out on the streets and the intoxicating parade of Vietnamese daily life is certain to leave you with lasting memories.

If your tour involves a cruise in Halong Bay, facilities on board the boat include a bar, sunbeds and evening entertainment (if you fancy trying your hand at karaoke). The boats are set over two stories, and all rooms will have a view out onto either the deck or the sea. For the more adventurous, sleeping out under the stars is also possible and can be arranged locally.

SIGHTS & EXCURSIONSThere are some great local crafts you can buy throughout Vietnam, all handmade and very reasonable. For anyone interested in getting some clothes made, Hoi An is the place to do it. The local tailors can usually turn garments around in a day or so, and you can pick up some bespoke items for a fraction of what they would cost at home – just leave some room in your luggage. You can either pick something from the clothes catalogues they use (from all the major UK stores) or take out a favourite piece and they will copy it for you.

The Tet festival (Chinese New Year) in January or February is one of the highlights of the Vietnamese social calendar. If you’re in country at the same time as the festival, some services may be limited and some bars and restaurants closed for a day or two. If so, your leader will make plans around it and you will never be left without somewhere to eat! If you’re thinking about extending your stay before or after your tour, it’s advisable to get your plans in place as early as possible, as hotels and transport can often be sold out.

LOCAL SPECIALITIESLike a lot of South East Asia, Vietnamese meals consist mainly of rice, vegetables and grilled or stir fried meat. The staple dish is Pho, which is a noodle broth with vegetables and meat. You can buy it at many small roadside stalls very cheaply, as well as the more established restaurants you will be visiting during the trip. Due to the French colonial influence, another item you shouldn't miss is the fresh baguettes, filled with cheese, pate or meat, again available from small stalls in most towns. Don’t be afraid to pull up one of the tiny plastic stools on the street food stalls. Learn a few of the common names first and a simple point to the wording with ensure a prompt delivery to your table. You will be able to smell the delicious barbecued pork of the famous Hanoi-based dish called ‘Bun Cha’ from a mile off!

CYCLINGCycling in Asia may be at first slightly daunting and in more built up areas can sometimes feel far removed from western rules of the road. However, you’ll soon discover that the traffic actually moves much slower and everyone is looking out for each other far more, and motor vehicles will generally give a quick toot of the horn to warn you they are approaching. We try to avoid entering the larger cities by bike and will usually load up the support vehicle at the city limits and drive in. It’s important to stay well hydrated in the humid climate and to apply sunscreen regularly, as sunburn can be easily disguised in the wind-chill on a bike. It’s also a good idea to take cycling gloves, as the heat means blisters can form more quickly on the hands.

Exodus Client Tip:

"Don't wait too long if you're thinking about Vietnam or Cambodia, they are beautiful people living extremely happy lives which they invite tourists to share. It can't stay that way for long. I am so glad my wife talked me into this holiday, it was probably the most memorable holiday I have ever spent and I can't rate Exodus too highly."

Mike Lapsley Cycling Vietnam

Staff Tip:

“I didn't buy any Dong before I went, and really don't think it's necessary. You can change money as soon as you arrive, so there's no real advantage. Sterling cash is fine to take, although US dollars function almost as a second currency in Vietnam. Some people like to take a mix of dollars and sterling, and both are easily changed. If you need to, you can also top up with a debit or credit card at the many ATMs at any point.”

Staff Tip:

“Crossing city streets can be pretty daunting at first, especially in Hanoi, where the main mode of transport is the moped and thousands pack the streets at rush hour. The best advice is to just walk across slowly with confidence, in a straight line, and the traffic will weave its way around you.”

Staff Tip:

“The distance varies day to day, but on average you will do 40km – 60km, which sounds like a lot but you'll get used to it quite quickly. The longest day we did was about 95km, and the shortest just 20km. It can be quite warm so drinking plenty of water is essential. There are a few days with some steep hills but the support bus is always nearby for anyone who wants to take a break and avail of the air-con. A lot of the roads are straight, flat and pretty quiet, passing through countryside filled with small towns and villages – expect lots of waving and "Hello hello!".

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VISITING LAOS

SIGHTS & EXCURSIONSVisitors to Laos will find a country which combines the best of any trip to South East Asia, while still managing to retain much of the tradition that is becoming somewhat less apparent in her noisier neighbours. A country of beautiful scenery with paddy fields, rugged forested hills fringed by waterfalls and imposing limestone karst landscapes, Laos is a country where the normally hectic Asian pace of life takes a deep breath, and relaxes.

The laid back capital Vientiane is small enough to comfortably walk around, and you can stop off along the way for French pastries and iced coffee in the numerous cafés dotted around the city. After a day of temple hopping, take a wander through the night market or relax down by the waterfront with a cold Beer Lao, as you watch the sun set over the Mekong.

If your trip involves taking the slow boat down the Mekong to Luang Prabang, It's a fantastic experience. Comprised of two eight hour days, with a stop in the river town of Pak Beng to break the journey, you can sit back and watch life float past on the river, passing small villages along the banks and giving you a real insight into how local people live here.

For atmospheric sunset views over Luang Prabang (if you have the energy), head up the 329 steps to Phu Si hill, topped with a 24m golden stupa. From here you can trace the Mekong winding it’s way through the landscape below, as the sun sets behind the forested hills in the distance.

You should note that it can get surprisingly cold over the winter months in Laos, so come prepared with a warmer layer if travelling at this time of year.

LOCAL SPECIALITIESIf visiting Laos, you are likely to arrive from neighbouring borders, Vietnam in the east or Thailand in the west, two countries which influence Lao food in a big way – in fact most of Lao food staples are similar or the same as that of their neighbours. Local dishes include Khao Piak Sen (noodle soup with chicken or beef), Laap (meat chopped with chillis, onions and fresh herbs) and leftover French influences such as baguettes, crepes and Croque Monsieurs.

Exodus Client Tip:

“There were really several special moments – I loved Luang Prabang generally and really enjoyed the trip out to the waterfalls – that was a really enchanting place. I loved the views along the trip to Vang Vieng, especially at our lunch stop, loved our river journey and the overnight stop at scruffy little PakBeng. The view from our hotel at Vang Vieng, the sunset and sunrise over the Mekong from our hotel terrace in Phnom Pehn and, most of all, all of Angkor Wat.” Frankie McAllister Discover Thailand, Laos & Cambodia

VISITING CAMBODIA

SIGHTS & EXCURSIONSMost travellers enter Cambodia from one of the neighbouring countries and there can be a marked contrast, especially if you come in from wealthier Vietnam or Thailand. Heirs to the mighty Khmer empire, Cambodia’s more recent history has been one of hardship and poverty, but the generosity and optimism of the Khmer people seem to endure no matter what.

Yes, it can sometimes feel like an endless round of temple hopping, but Cambodia has much more to offer than this. From the mighty Mekong, which dominates the lives of millions of local people, to gritty Pnomh Penh and out into the sleepy countryside where most Cambodian people live and work, it only takes a little digging below the much trumpeted iconic sights to discover a country unique in the region.

Hectic Pnomh Penh is fast emerging as a destination to equal other regional capitals. Alongside the multitude of palaces, temples and museums, you’ll find vast local markets such as Psar Thmei, ultra-modern bars and restaurants, as well as some hangers on from the colonial days such as the legendary FCC and the Elephant bar at Raffles.

Aside from the huge draw of the Angor complex of temples, Siem Riep is becoming a go-to destination in it’s own right in recent years, with a surge in boutique spas, world class restaurants and local markets. When not visiting Angor Wat, head out to explore the neon lights of Pub Street, hire a bike and take a trip out into the sleepy countryside or visit any one of a number of local bird sanctuaries, all within easy reach of the city centre.

LOCAL SPECIALITIESThey say that once you've sampled Khmer cuisine, you won't turn back! Bai Sach Chrouk (pork and rice) is served on every street corner in Cambodia and is a staple of the country, eaten for breakfast, lunch or dinner. Khmer Red Curry is also very popular, less spicy than Thai curries but still using flavoursome coconut milk, and served with chicken or beef. If you’re feeling brave, you can try Red Tree Ants with beef and basil – ants of various sizes, some barely visible and others almost an inch long are stir-fried with ginger, lemongrass, garlic, shallots and thinly sliced beef.

For an unusual soup stock to take home, try Prahok. Tonle Sap lake, stretching between Pnomh Penh and Siem Riep shrinks by up to ten times during the dry season, which is why this preserved fish paste is so common. It is usually sold at small local shops and looks like a little sausage wrapped in plastic. The smell is rather pungent but it tastes wonderful and adds a fantastic flavour to soups.

Staff Tip:

"Make sure you pick up a ‘kroma’ from a local market. This is a multi-purpose checked piece of material that lots of Cambodians wear on their head to keep cool but are also useful as scarves to keep the sun off your neck or to cover your mouth with if you end up on a particularly dusty tuk tuk ride!"

Exodus Client Tip:

“Cambodia is a country emerging from an horrific – and recent – past. Visit it now, before it changes forever.” Philip Phillips Thai Indochina Explorer

Staff Tip:

Stock up on Tiger Balm upon arrival. This local favourite can be bought from all chemists for approx. 20pence and is very useful for preventing the maddening itching of insect bites. Monkey Balm is another local favourite which is almost identical but not quite as pungent!

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VISITING INDONESIA

SIGHTS & EXCURSIONSFew countries can boast as much natural and cultural diversity as Indonesia. The largest archipelago in the world, it is made up of over 17,500 beach-fringed tropical islands where terraced rice paddies give way to luxuriant jungles and are often dominated by towering volcanoes. Highlights include Yogyakarta, the cultural hub of Java, with it’s narrow alleys packed with silversmiths, puppet makers and food markets; the rotal temples and palaces of Ubud; the picture perfect beaches of Lombok, all the way down to the hot and steamy jungles of Komodo island and their giant lizards.

You should note that the culture can change from island to island, and you will be going through some conservative Muslim areas where you should dress modestly. In these areas, both men and women should wear trousers or shorts/skirts which go below the knee and tops which cover the shoulders. Additionally, women should avoid wearing close-fitting or revealing clothes.

Travel between Java and Bali is by the large public ferries and takes just 30 minutes. The boat from Bali to Lombok is smaller, seats about 30 and takes approximately 2.5 hours. All boats have life rafts, life jackets, GPS positioning and emergency signalling systems.

If you are doing our Volcanoes & Temples of Indonesia trip, the overnight hike up Mt. Rinjani in Lombok is optional will need to be booked before departure. It requires a minimum of two people, please contact Exodus for details. If you are interested in doing this optional hike but are by yourself, you can register your interest with us and we will let you know if one or more other people in your group would like to do the hike as well. If you are doing our Indonesia Volcano Trek, it is included as part of the itinerary and does not need to be booked. For more details on the hike, please see the trip notes.

Whilst much of Indonesia is hot and humid it can very cold at night at altitude, especially on Mt. Lawu and Mt. Rinjani, so you should bring warm layers, gloves and a hat. You should also bring a buff or scarf as it can get dusty on top of some of the volcanoes, as well as a head torch for hiking in the dark (when going for sunrise). Furthermore, you may wish to bring a good sleeping bag with you if you’re doing the 2 nights camping on Mt. Rinjani. Whilst there are sleeping bags provided, these are only 2 season so if it’s a cold night, they may not be sufficient. There is also the opportunity to swim in pools at hotels as well as the hot springs on Mt. Rinjani so swimwear can be useful.

LOCAL SPECIALITIESAs you would expect in such a country of such diversity, the variety of Indonesian food is breathtaking and regional specialities abound. Some of the more popular dishes to try are the ubiquitous Nasi Goreng (fried rice with sauce and vegetables) which is considered the national dish, tasty Satay meat skewers fried over hot coals and available from street carts everywhere, and the ever popular Rendang (beef cooked in coconut milk and spices until dry). Restaurants come in all shapes, colours and standards; expensive (restoran), standard (rumah makan) and simple (warung). Indonesian food can be quite spicy but there will always be milder dishes available if you prefer and, if you get really homesick, western style food will be available in places such as Medan, Yogyakarta and Bali.

MONEYThe national currency of Indonesia is the Indonesian Rupiah (IDR) and money can be easily changed upon arrival, although you will find better rates outside of the airport. ATM's are now widespread in Indonesia and are also an easy way of obtaining money, but be aware that credit cards are not widely used outside of places like Yogyakarta and Bali, so you shouldn’t rely on them.

Staff Tip:

"While Indonesia’s cuisine may not be as well known as Thai or Vietnamese, one thing they do exceptionally well is fruit. Being taken on a walk through a market and learning about all the exotic and unusual fruit on display is a great experience and my personal favourite, when in season, has got to be mangosteen, a small fruit with a purple skin and white flesh. Of course not all fruit is created equal – at the other end of the spectrum, is the infamously pungent durian which I’ve never been able to take a liking to, unlike its cousin, soursop, which is fantastic blended up as a fruit-juice."

Staff Tip:

"Smile, smile and smile again! So much of business in SE Asia is done with a smile and although you may mistake an inquisitive stare for a scowl the quick flash of a smile will almost always be returned and will likely be accompanied with assistance if needed."

Staff Tip:

"Generally if you would like to beckon for someone or hail a taxi this should be done with your palm facing downwards – it may seem like a ‘shooing’ gesture however will be received well in all countries."

DESTINATION • SOUTH EAST ASIA 8

Tips & Advice for Travelling Responsibly...Responsible Travel is central to the ethos of Exodus. We design and operate our holidays in a way that gives the highest degree of long-term economic benefit to the host communities, whilst also minimising the impact on the environment. We believe that travel should encourage positive cultural exchanges and the below tips are designed to help you get the most out of your holiday as well as making a genuine contribution to the people and places visited.

• Greet by pressing your hands together below your chin and bowing –the higher the hands are held the more respect this exudes. Thailand is class conscious, so applying this to the lower class or children may cause embarrassment. Shaking hands is most common in Laos.

• Speaking the language goes a long way – Try saying hello in Laotian with ‘Sabaidee’, in Thai ‘Sàwàtdee’ or in Khmer ‘Choum reap Souar’.

• Various clothing is sported in tourist hotspots, especially in Thailand, but loose-fitting clothing that covers shoulders to knees is recommended, particularly in quieter regions and temples. Ladies, why not keep a sarong or light scarf on you to cover up at short notice?

• If you intend to capture somebody on camera, ask permission. Exchanging a few words or gestures beforehand also grants you an opportunity to communicate with the locals!

• ‘Mai pen rai’ (never mind), ‘Jai yen’ (cool heart/even temper) and ‘Kreng jai’ (understanding other’s needs and feelings) encapsulates Thai philosophy, but applying this sort of attitude anywhere in South East Asia will ensure you fit in.

• Be respectful – keep displays of affection at bay, remove shoes before entering temples, and don’t criticize royal families. Women should ensure that they don’t touch monks.

• If you wish to give, donating to a local charity, school or hospital maximizes benefits and discourages a begging mentality.

• To support local livelihood and talent, simply go local when purchasing goods, souvenirs or food.

• Great souvenirs are abundant, so steer clear of preserved insects or snakes in bottles, as well as animal skins, shells, claws, teeth, horns, blood, tusks, paws, or feathers.

• Feel free to haggle in markets, but remember to drive a price that benefits both parties! Turn it down a notch in Laos, as they’re laid-back sellers.

• Avoid littering, especially toxic products like batteries. Opting for re-usable bags keeps plastic waste to a minimum and protects turtles off the coast from swallowing bags.

• Showing the soles of your feet (the least sacred body part) or pointing may be considered impolite – just try tucking your feet under you if you’re sitting on the floor.

• Preserve what you’ve travelled to see – never take coral, and refrain from touching Cambodia’s carvings or bas-reliefs. Purchasing historical artefacts is often as illegal as it is irresponsible!

The information provided is given in good faith and is subject to change. If you have returned from your trip and found anything within this document which is incorrect, please help us keep it up to date by emailing customerops@exodus.co.uk. Likewise, if you have a tip you would like to share with future clients, please let us know and we will hope to include it in future editions. Please note that some of the information provided here is personal opinion and does not form part of our contract with clients.

VISITING BORNEO

SIGHTS & EXCURSIONSThe island of Borneo is a multi-cultural paradise. Made up of the Malaysian states Sabah and Sarawak, the wealthy kingdom of Brunei and Indonesian Kalimantan, the region is home to many different cultures, tribes and religions. From primary jungles teeming with exotic wildlife to the majestic Mount Kinabalu, the breadth and range of experiences and sights will fascinate and stay with you long after you return home.

For a taste of an Asian market on a grand scale, head to Kota Kinabalu’s night market close to the Le Meridien hotel. You can experience casual dining with the locals, where you choose your own freshly caught fish and have it cooked in front of you, bargain for some pearls or handmade jewellery, or just stroll about people watching and sipping from a freshly opened coconut.

One of the highlights when visiting Malaysian Borneo is the climb of Mt Kinabalu. At 12,000 feet (4101m), it’s the highest mountain in the world without snow on top and, despite being located on a large tropical island, the temperature can drop to – 20 in the wind.

While trekking, you’ll need just a 30L to 40L rucksack to carry for enough gear for a few days and the rest of your luggage can be stored safely at the park HQ. A walking pole for the descent is useful, as the path is made up of various different sized rocky sections and steps so can be hard going on the knees. The sun can get very hot in exposed areas, so a wide brimmed hat or something to at least cover your head is essential. The leader will offer advice on what is best to pack before you start the climb. You can opt out of the climb if you like, and the leader will arrange for you to transfer straight to the next hotel, but you will need to pay the cost of the transfer yourself, which will be about £20.

Staff Tip:

"Some people are worried about leeches and ask about the need for leech socks. To be honest, most people do without. They are not a huge problem but you are sure to see a few – most people just ensure that they’re wearing thick socks and then tuck their trousers into the socks, and also wear long sleeves/cotton shirts to keep them off their arms. This works pretty well but won’t be 100% effective at keeping them out. If you think you might panic if one was to get into your boots, then perhaps buying some might be a good idea. Saying that, Dettol, applied on the hands, necks and legs will apparently protect you better than any socks can!"

LOCAL SPECIALITIESFood in Borneo is a literal melting pot, with the main influences coming from Malay, Chinese and Indian cooking. Malay food tends to be quite rich, due to the use of coconut milk in a lot of dishes, as well as spices such as turmeric, cloves and cumin.

Staff Tip:

"A good set of binoculars are really useful for spotting the monkeys and birds high in trees canopy."