With the peak summer travel season here, visiting Southeast Asian countries lets you enjoy a sunny vacation—especially since Thailand has extended its visa fee exemption until the end of August, saving you money you can spend on shopping. Travel search and comparison site FUNTIME has compiled the most common travel safety guidelines, offering must-read pre-trip advice for those planning to visit Southeast Asia—from how to deal with customs, choosing taxis, visiting attractions, to what to wear.
1. Summer in Southeast Asia: Loose Clothing Feels Just Right
Southeast Asian countries are hot all year round, and summer brings high temperatures along with the rainy season in June and July. It’s recommended to pack loose, breathable clothing to avoid feeling stuffy—or you can also shop for unique local outfits to embrace the vacation style.
2. Vietnam, the Land of Motorbikes: Crossing the Road Is a Skill
Like Taiwan, Vietnam is a country full of motorbikes, but crossing the road there is almost a skill in itself. With dense, speeding traffic, “traffic lights become the city’s most perfect decoration.” When crossing the street in Vietnam, it’s advised to signal with your hand, move quickly, watch the speed of motorbikes, and you’ll get the hang of the rhythm locals use.
3. Avoid Taxi Disputes: Choose Branded Fleets
The most common taxi issue while traveling is drivers taking longer routes or overcharging. Aside from the popular tuk-tuks, when taking taxis in Vietnam, you can opt for reputable branded fleets, which have distinct colors, logos, phone numbers, and set fare rates.
4. Danger Can Strike Anytime: Safety Rules Apply Indoors and Outdoors
When traveling, safety comes first. Watch your belongings while walking on the street and stick to the inner side of sidewalks. Indoors, stay alert too—danger can happen in an instant. Avoid being alone in dark, secluded areas and keep track of each other if you’re with companions. For off-the-beaten-path attractions, hire a reputable guide, and be cautious of hidden landmines in less developed areas.
5. Dealing with Beggars at Attractions: Don’t Let Sympathy Cloud Judgment
In some Southeast Asian tourist spots, you may still see children begging on the streets. But giving them money might not help—and could even encourage them to rely on begging. Instead of a quick handout, consider giving sweets or biscuits instead.
6. Don’t Overlook the Details of Almsgiving to Monks
In religious countries like Laos, it’s common to see monks collecting alms on the streets daily. When observing this, remember not to use flash when taking photos, monks must not touch women, and offerings are usually sticky rice or fruit—not money.
7. Queuing at Customs: There’s a Trick to It
Although officials claim to have eliminated customs bribery, to avoid having your passport held at the airport and being asked for a fee, it’s advised to observe queues with more people or foreigners—giving customs officers less chance to target you. When getting a visa on arrival, try to pay the exact amount to avoid giving anyone a reason to overcharge.
8. Don’t Underestimate These Must-Have Contact Numbers
The easiest yet most crucial thing when traveling abroad is to save emergency contact numbers for your country’s representative office. Hopefully, you won’t need them—but they can be a lifeline when you do. Philippines (63)9178194597, Indonesia (62)811984676, Malaysia (60)193812616, Hanoi (84)913219986, Ho Chi Minh (84)903927019, Bangkok (66)816664006, Brunei (673)8956338
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