Taking a trip to Vietnam, Myanmar, Cambodia, and Laos is an epic adventure. Four of the five countries that make up modern-day Indochina, these amazing destinations are filled with ancient wonders and modern delights to keep any avid traveler enthralled.
From the amazing capitals of Saigon, Phnom Penh, Vientiane, and Rangoon to the wonders of the temple complexes, the outstanding scenery, and the sublime cultures of these truly Buddhist countries, this is a trip that will blow your mind.
Combining all four countries, with their variety of climates and seasons can be tricky, but it is not impossible.
Cambodia’s dry season runs from November to April, while Laos is from November to March.
Myanmar has its dry season from October to the end of May, and is the longest of all, while the best time to visit the three climate regions of Vietnam is from December to March.
This gives you the best period for travel from December to the end of February, as it is already getting hot in March in some places.
All of the countries have lowered restrictions for travel when it comes to COVID-19.
All allow vaccinated and unvaccinated travel, and Vietnam, Myanmar, and Cambodia require you to take a vaccination test on arrival if unvaccinated.
If not vaccinated, Laos does require you to take the test and be negative prior to travel, and within 48 hours of your flight.
And even if vaccinated, Myanmar requires a negative COVID antigen test prior to departure. Only Myanmar insists on insurance coverage, and it must be through the specified insurance provider, “Myanmar Insurance”, while the other three recommend your insurance includes COVID cover, but is not required.
All of the four destinations are among the safest for travelers in Asia, as the conservative Buddhist culture is strictly adhered to across all four countries.
Most crimes against tourists are opportunistic, such as pickpocketing. Not providing the opportunity usually means you are pretty safe from most things.
Direct attacks are almost unheard of in Buddhist countries. And even in Myanmar, with its military takeover, life and tourism go on as normal, with the military takeover mostly being political, rather than militaristic. Myanmar is still open and welcoming to tourism.
One would recommend a trip to four such outstanding countries allowing at least a week in each to make the most of the amazing sights and culture available to be explored.
All four countries have a wealth of attractions and local destinations that are must-see locations for travelers to Indochina, and while it is possible to cut down on the time, you will lose out on the overall experience.
And you have to allow time for travel between locations and destinations as well, so a four-week trip would be the best option for this tour.
Yes, dollars are actually the best currency you can take with you, even if you are not American.
These four nations all have different currencies. And, surprisingly, only two of these four independent countries allow currency conversion outside their own borders. Since it is illegal to transport Vietnamese dong outside the country, and no international bank exchanges Laotian kip, it is better to bring dollars if you are bringing currency with you.
In all four countries, you can get relatively good exchange rates for your dollars, and you can even pay in dollars for a number of purchases, especially larger amounts, and for paying hotel bills.
And since you may not know how much you will need in Myanmar kyat or Cambodian riel, it is recommended to exchange for the amount you will need when you get there. And even the visa-on-arrival fees in Cambodia, Laos, and Myanmar can be paid for in US Dollars.
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