Malaysia
The gateway to the region is usually via Kuala Lumpur, one of Asia’s biggest cities. Here, reminders of its Colonial past jostle for attention with state-of-the-art super-structures such as the world-famous Petronas Towers. ‘KL’, as it is often referred as, is a shopper’s paradise with a huge variety of goods available, many of which are duty-free, yet there are plenty of museums, galleries and the Lake Gardens, if you fancy a change of scene. Away from the capital, we feature a resort in Terengganu, on Peninsular Malaysia, where you can take jungle walks and river cruises, discover sleepy villages or snorkel off Tenggol Island, one of Asia’s best dive sites. Meanwhile, on the island of Langkawi, known as the ‘island of legends’, we feature several resorts which are perfect retreats for nature-lovers seeking serenity and tranquillity. The island’s countless delights include waterfalls, mountains, rice fields, forests, small villages, sublime beaches, bird sanctuaries and night markets. For a real slice of paradise, the privately owned island of Pangkor Laut – which has been two-million years in the making – is somewhere to thoroughly relax, with secluded bays and pristine beaches to call your own for the duration of your stay.
Ramadan, which is observed for one month each year, is a period of fasting when the pace of life is slower, public areas are busier and there are certain restrictions, for example, consuming food in public, drinking alcohol and use of restaurants. In 2013, Ramadan will be celebrated for one month from 9th July.
Climate
Malaysia has two monsoon periods; the north east monsoon (November to March) brings heavy rainfall while the south west monsoon (late May to September) is much drier making this, the best time to visit Malaysia.
Temperature
These figures show Malaysia monthly average maximum temperatures and monthly average rainfall.
|
Temp °C |
Rain mm |
|
| January | 33 | 50 |
| February | 34 | 47 |
| March | 34 | 91 |
| April | 34 | 169 |
| May | 32 | 256 |
| June | 32 | 218 |
| July | 31 | 233 |
| August | 31 | 249 |
| September | 31 | 339 |
| October | 31 | 344 |
| November | 32 | 215 |
| December | 32 | 94 |
Useful Information
Capital : Kuala Lumpur
Language : Malay
Currency : Malaysian Ringgit
Voltage : 240v
The Immigration Department of Malaysia has a system of biometric registration procedures for foreigners. Under the system, all foreigners entering Malaysia by land, air and sea are required to provide biometric fingerprints of both thumbs and index fingers at all Malaysian immigration entry points. Children below 12 years of age, visitors with finger disabilities and diplomatic passport holders, are exempt from this procedure.
Visa and other entry and exit conditions (such as currency, customs and quarantine regulations) change regularly. Contact the nearest Embassy, High Commission or Consulate of Malaysia for the most up-to-date information.
Particular care should be taken to follow all immigration rules and regulations. Violation of visa conditions and overstaying your visa may result in penalties, including fines, detention and deportation. Check the dates on the visa stamp placed in your passport on arrival.
Passports are required for travel between Peninsular Malaysia and East Malaysia (Sabah and Sarawak).
You should carry suitable photographic identification with you at all times while in Malaysia.
Make sure your passport has at least six months’ validity from your planned date of return to Australia. You should carry copies of a recent passport photo with you in case you need a replacement passport while overseas.
Malaysian immigration authorities may deny entry and deport people arriving in Malaysia with less than six months validity remaining on their passport, even if the person intends staying just a few days.
Thailand
Whilst on your luxury holiday, we recommend you take a cruise on the Chao Phraya River in Bangkok, wander around Chinatown or sample the serene atmosphere of a temple. Then, head south to the island of Phuket. Nestling in the balmy Andaman Sea, it boasts lush tropical landscapes and an abundance of superb sandy beaches. Krabi’s coastline travels down the west coast of Thailand, while the island of Koh Yao Noi lies halfway between Phuket and Krabi.
On the opposite side of the peninsula, the Gulf of Thailand is home to the much quieter island, Koh Samui where you’ll find sleepy villages and forested hillsides sweeping down to palm-fringed beaches. You might also consider Hua Hin, the oldest and, probably, most traditional Thai resort, or Koh Kood, one of the larger yet least developed islands, and Chiang Mai, with its gilded temples and museums where you can also enjoy an elephant-ride into nearby forests. Khao Lak, tragically struck by the 2004 Tsunami, is located in the Phang Nga province.
Climate
Tropical and humid for most of the year, northern Thailand’s climate is determined by three clearly defined seasons. Between November and February and from March to May it’s mostly dry, with the latter months being the hottest. Whilst the northeast monsoon doesn’t directly affect the area it does bring with it cooling breezes, enjoyed from November to February. From May to November northern Thailand is dominated by the southwest monsoon during which time, rainfall is at its heaviest.
The southern peninsular has two seasons – wet and dry. However, these seasons do not run at the same time on the west as they do on the eastern side of the peninsular. Rain falls at its heaviest on the west coast between April and October whilst on the east coast it’s at its heaviest between September and December.
Generally speaking, the best time to visit Thailand is from November to February when the northeast monsoon is blowing cool, dry air. April is quite simply the hottest month across the country whilst from July to October the monsoon season brings most of Thailand’s annual rainfall with humidity averaging at just under 90% and temperatures averaging around 29º C (Bangkok).
Best time to visit Bangkok
On average, the temperatures are always high, with a lot of rain falling in May, June, July, August, September and October. The warmest month is usually May with the coolest month being December. September is the wettest month while January is the driest.
Best time to visit Chiang Mai
Most of the rain falls in May, June, July, August, September and October. The driest months are January, February, March and December. On average the warmest month is April with January being the coolest month.
Best time to visit Phuket
A lot of rain falls in April, May, June, July, August, September, October and November. February is the driest month with September being the wettest. On average, the warmest month is April.
Best time to visit Ko Phangan
Rains fall in May, June, July, August, September, October, November and December, with November being the wettest month. The driest month is March and the warmest month is April.
Best time to visit Hua Hin
Rains fall in May, June, July, August, September and October with the wettest month being September. January is the driest month, with December being the coolest.
For the Western visitor unused to humidity, there is no such thing as “cool” in the Far East just cooler than “hot” and “drier than humid”. Light cotton clothing is very much the order of the day. Do remember that the tropical sun can be quite fierce so a hat is useful, and of course a good sun screen is essential.
Highlights
Shopping & Entertainment
Shop till you drop in Bangkok at the Siam Discovery Centre and Emporium; the Chatuchak Market, one of the largest in the world and the Damnoen Saduak – as featured in the Bond film “Tomorrow Never Dies” a chaotic collection of longtail boats jostling for position
Shops in Chiang Mai range from small family-run shops to world-class luxury outlets and shopping malls; hone your batering skills at the Chiang Mai Night Bazaar or Walking Street on a Sunday evening; purchase hand-woven Fabrics, ceramics, gems, lacquer-ware and silverware for great souvenirs. Many hotel will happily arrange for guests to visit the night market where one of Thailand’s famed umbrellas can be purchased; these delicate, handcrafted parasols are made from bamboo and glazed rice paper and make the perfect post-holiday gift.
Hit it or miss it – Patong’s thriving party zone was once notorious but is now much more friendlier to all its visitors whether their couples or families.
Temples
In Bangkok, visit Wat Phra Kaew (Temple of the Emerald Buddha); the Grand Palace with its glittering golden rooftops and soaring chedis (pagodas) Wat Pho, featuring the famous Reclining Buddha statue, and a beautifully designed garden complete with a massage school. If you have the time, do include a cruise along the Chao Phyraya River for a different perspective of this fascinating city.
Attractions abound in the historical city of Chiang Mai, in addition to three-hundred beautiful gilded temples including Wat Phra That Doi Suthep the most historically and spiritually significant place in Thailand, you’ll find museums, gardens, a zoo and an aquarium.
Excursions
Visit hill-tribe villages and learn about their traditional and easy-going lifestyles in Chiang Mai.
In Chiang Rai you can visit the Golden Triangle where Thailand, Laos and Myanmar meet on the Mekong River; this famous border location is supposedly the centre of all the poppy cultivation in Thailand.
Phuket is the diving centre of Thailand; most sites are suitable for all levels but there are some deeper locations for the more experienced; sites are usually off nearby islands, the reefs are healthy and there’s a profusion of marine life to admire.
For an extraordinary adventure, indulge in a private cruise experience aboard a traditional Hong Kong junk.
The sea cliffs of Koh Kudu near Koh Yao Noi are currently one of the two best places in Thailand for novices to go deep water soloing. Climb straight out of a boat (with just your climbing shoes and your chalk bag) onto the rock then jump into the deep water below. Hotels can organise enthralling rock climbing excursions, ascending the craggy rock faces of the island’s signature limestone walls.
Cuisine
In Bangkok dine on outstanding Chinese, Japanese, Thai and international dishes.
In Chiang Mai learn to cook a Thai dish – a number of excellent cookery schools offer full day or evening courses.
Indulge in a cookery class at a Thai Cookery School
Useful Information
Capital : Bangkok
Language : Thai
Currency : Thai Baht
Voltage : 220v
Travel Tips
Sanuk
To the Thai people “sanuk” is about striving to achieve satisfaction and pleasure from whatever they do, whether it’s the office, the karaoke bar or working in the rice fields. As a visitor it will help do to likewise and are visiting the market – if you barter in the right manner, you may be surprised and delighted at the results.
Temple Etiquette
If you have decided to pay a visit to the temples, do wear appropriate clothing, i.e. make sure your knees and shoulders are covered and remove both shoes and hats before entering the temple (or indeed any room where there is an image of Buddha). There is a direct association between the head (high status) and feet (low status) so don’t place your hat on top of your shoes.
All buildings in Thailand have a raised threshold which is there to keep out evil spirits. You’ll see this in many international standard hotels take care to step over the raised threshold of the wat as it is bad manners (and bad luck) to place your foot on it.
Inside the wat, do try and keep your head lower than the images of Buddha and the monks. Don’t point the bottom of your feet at the images of Buddha or the monks – you will always see the Thai people kneeling with their feet tucked behind them.
If you do take photos, be discreet and consider leaving a small donation in the collection boxes as it will go towards the upkeep of the temple.
The Thai Smile
In Thailand, the smile isn’t just a sign of happiness, although you’ll be the recipient of many smiles when you enter any of many upscale hotels and resorts. Thais smile when they are amused, bemused, apologetic, annoyed, uncertain, wrong, furious or embarrassed. In fact, there is a Thai smile to cover just about every circumstance. Bear this in mind and it shouldn’t lead to confusion.
Visa and other entry and exit conditions (such as currency, customs and quarantine regulations) change regularly. Contact the nearest Embassy or Consulate of Thailand for the most up-to-date information.
Australian tourists travelling to Thailand through one of the international airports on an Australian passport may currently enter Thailand for up to 30 days without obtaining a visa in advance. This is referred to as a “visa exemption”. Australian tourists travelling overland into Thailand through a border crossing may enter Thailand for up to 15 days without obtaining a visa in advance. A visa is required for longer stays or for travellers intending to work or to travel for other than tourism purposes in Thailand.
Thai authorities require all travellers to have at least six months validity remaining on their passports. You may be refused entry to Thailand, or may not be permitted to board your Thailand-bound flight, if your passport has less than six months validity.
The Australian Embassy cannot help you to get entry permits or visas, visa extensions or work permits for Thailand or other countries. Make sure you obtain visas, entry permits and extensions of stay from Thai immigration authorities or a Thai Embassy or Consulate.
Avoid individuals and companies advertising visa extension services, as they may stamp passports with fake or illegally obtained exit and entry stamps. Australians with illegal stamps in their passports can be arrested and jailed for up to 10 years. Thai authorities will vigorously prosecute offenders.
Overstaying your visa in Thailand is considered a very serious offence and may result in arrest and prolonged detention. Travellers who overstay entry permits may not be allowed to leave Thailand until a fine is paid. The fine is currently 500 baht per day, up to a maximum of 20,000 baht. If you cannot afford to pay the overstay fine you may be arrested, taken to court, charged with a visa offence, and required to serve a lengthy prison sentence in lieu of the fine. Travellers who have overstayed their visas may be imprisoned, deported and placed on an immigration blacklist to prevent them from returning to Thailand.
It is illegal to work without a work permit. In the past, some employers (particularly schools, fitness centres, securities telemarketers, currency traders, and other businesses) have not fulfilled promises to arrange work permits and their employees have been arrested, jailed and deported from Thailand.
China
The nation remains a wild and chaotic explosion of cultural and geographical diversity; a frenzied concoction of the old and the new, the traditional and the innovative. This is a country shrouded in mystery but eager to be explored, offering visitors an epic adventure of discovery and surprise. In recent years, China has become somewhat of a buzz word amongst travellers. Enjoy a luxury holiday to China and discover its rich and detailed history, its fascinating traditions and extreme diversity. You’ll experience flavours unknown to the western world, friendly Chinese hospitality and exotic eastern architecture all rolled into one compelling adventure.
Climate
In Beijing and Xi’an the climate is continental, with hot summers and cool, dry winters. Shanghai and Hong Kong tend to be warmer, but have more rainfall year-round. We recommend the best time to visit China is in March or May, or from September to October.
Temperature
These figures show China monthly average maximum temperatures and monthly average rainfall.
|
Temp °C |
Rain mm |
|
| January | 2 | 2 |
| February | 4 | 4 |
| March | 11 | 7 |
| April | 20 | 18 |
| May | 27 | 29 |
| June | 31 | 65 |
| July | 31 | 152 |
| August | 30 | 143 |
| September | 26 | 42 |
| October | 19 | 18 |
| November | 10 | 7 |
| December | 3 | 2 |
Useful Information
Capital : Beijing
Language : Mandarin
Currency : Yuan
Voltage : 220 volt
Health : Health facilities, hygiene and disease risks vary worldwide. You should take health advice about your specific needs as early as possible. Sources of information include: your General Practitioner or a specialised clinic.
Visa : Visa and other entry and exit conditions (such as currency, customs and quarantine regulations) change regularly. Contact the nearest Embassy or Consulate of China for the most up to date information. For foreigners already travelling or resident within China, all visa inquiries should be directed to the Foreigners Entry and Exit Administration Section of the local Public Security Bureau.
If travelling to China, your passport must be valid for at least six months after the duration of your intended stay and you must also be able to provide evidence of a return or onward ticket. A visa is required for all travellers to China whether for tourism, business, employment or study purposes. You should ensure that you obtain the appropriate visa for the purpose of your visit. It is very difficult to obtain a visa at Chinese border entry points.
If your passport is lost or stolen while in China you will firstly need to obtain an official loss report from the local police (this report can be used when checking in to a hotel and will be necessary for obtaining a new passport and Chinese visa). You will need to obtain a replacement passport from the nearest Australian embassy or consulate, as well as a Chinese visa to allow you to leave China. Issue of a visa by the Chinese authorities can take up to five working days, and can be delayed significantly longer during Chinese holiday periods. Australians who have lost or had their passport stolen in China should not expect the Chinese visa renewal or replacement process to be expedited for them to meet travel or flight schedules. We encourage you to keep a copy of your passport and Chinese visa in a safe place when travelling in China.
Chinese authorities strictly enforce penalties for entry and exit visa violations. Current regulations include a 500RMB fine (not to exceed 5,000RMB) for each day overstayed, and/or detention. The period of detention can range from 5 to 30 days depending on the severity of the violation.
We recommend that travellers ensure they depart China before their visa expiry date.
Hong Kong and Macau are Special Administrative Regions (SAR) and have separate visa and entry administration. Travellers who exit mainland China to visit Hong Kong or Macau may require a new Chinese visa to re-enter mainland China. In particular, travellers with a single entry visa for China should take particular note of this requirement. Some travel permits, issued in Hong Kong or at Hong Kong-Macau-Chinese mainland border crossings, are valid for limited travel to designated areas only such as Shenzhen, Zhuhai or other areas in Guangdong Province. It is illegal to use these permits to travel to other parts of China. Travellers should carefully check the details on their visa.
You may need a visa to transit China if your stopover is longer than 24 hours and requires you to leave the airport. However, if you are staying for less than 24 hours while transiting en route to a third country, and you have a pre-purchased outward ticket, you may not need a transit visa. If you need to leave the airport during the 24 hour period, you may be able to apply for a permit on arrival at the airport. These requirements can change often and vary between airports. You should check specific requirements with the Embassy or Consulate of China for the most up to date information.
Make sure your passport has at least six months’ validity from your planned date of return to Australia. You should carry copies of a recent passport photo with you in case you need a replacement passport while overseas.
Vietnam
Exotic Asian influences sit against a backdrop of French-Colonial splendour in the sophisticated and prosperous capital, Hanoi. Ho Chi Minh City also retains the allure of centuries past, when Saigon was described as the ‘Pearl of the Far East’. Here, you’ll find skyscrapers juxtaposed with faded French-Colonial buildings and a myriad of street markets, shops, pavement cafés, stands-on-wheels and vendors selling wares spread out on the pavements.
Climate
Due to its length and the diversity of its topography, Vietnam experiences several different climate zones, with weather patterns varying considerably from season to season and region to region. Thanks to these regional variations, you can visit Vietnam at any time of year: catch the good weather in Saigon in February – March, following the coast to the north, visiting Hanoi in October – November.
Northern Vietnam
Generally cooler than the other South East Asian regions in the same longitude, northern Vietnam experiences a pleasant spring (March-April) and autumn (October-December) with chilly winters (December- February) experiencing average temperatures of 17.2°C (62.9°F), and hot summers (June – July) when temperatures can reach approximately 37°C (98.6 °F). Humidity levels remain at approximately 80% all year round and there may occasionally be typhoons and heavy rain in late summer (September to November).
NB:Temperatures shown in the grid opposite, reflect the average temperatures and rainfall for Hanoi.
Central Vietnam
With two sub-regions, coastal lowlands and central highlands, this area of Vietnam offers a climate that falls somewhere in between that of the North and the South. The coastal strip is usually dry and hotter with storms and typhoons (from July to November) affecting this area more frequently than the northern coasts. The Central Highlands have nearly double the average rainfall of the country and the two biggest towns in this plateau, Dalat and Pleiku, are cool throughout the year. Coastal cities, near-the-south, (Nha Trang), on the other hand, experience steamy hot weather (21°C-32°C / 70°F-90°F) all year round.
Southern Vietnam
The south of Vietnam, which lies just eight degrees north of the Equator, enjoys a typically humid, tropical climate. Temperatures experience little variation throughout the year (staying at around 27-32°C/80-90°F) and there are two main seasons: the rainy and the dry. During the rainy/monsoon season (from May to November), downpours are expected to happen nearly every afternoon, which can result in occasional street flooding, in and around Saigon. In the dry season, it is hot from late February to April, cooling slightly when the first downpours come. December to March is said to be the most pleasant time to visit.
Temperature
These figures show Vietnam monthly average maximum temperatures and monthly average rainfall.
|
Temp °C |
Rain mm |
|
| January | 20 | 21 |
| February | 20 | 28 |
| March | 23 | 42 |
| April | 28 | 97 |
| May | 32 | 183 |
| June | 33 | 243 |
| July | 33 | 259 |
| August | 32 | 298 |
| September | 31 | 228 |
| October | 29 | 125 |
| November | 25 | 57 |
| December | 22 | 18 |
Useful Information
Capital : Hanoi
Language : Vietnamese
Currency : Dong
Voltage : 220v
Health : Health facilities, hygiene and disease risks vary worldwide. You should take health advice about your specific needs as early as possible. Sources of information include: your General Practitioner or a specialised clinic.
Visa : Visa and other entry and exit conditions (such as currency, customs and quarantine regulations) change regularly. Contact the nearest Embassy or Consulate of Vietnam for the most up to date information and instructions on applying for a Vietnamese visa.
You must obtain a visa or a ‘visa on arrival’ approval letter (the visa on arrival letter allows you to obtain a visa on arrival) prior to entering Vietnam. People attempting to enter Vietnam without a valid visa or ‘visa on arrival’ approval letter risk being sent back to their last port of departure. You should review all visa conditions and carefully note any conditions listed on the immigration stamp which you will receive on arrival.
There has been an increase in the number of Australians applying online for a ‘visa on arrival’ approval letter. However,there have been reports of visa scams involving online Vietnamese visa applications. There have also been reports of applicants’ personal details being made public by online visa websites. As result, we recommend you apply for a Vietnamese visa from your nearest Embassy or Consulate of Vietnam.
Your passport must have at least six months’ remaining validity at the time of arrival in Vietnam. If you lose your passport which contains your visa for Vietnam or the visa document issued by Vietnamese authorities, you will need to obtain an exit visa from a Vietnamese immigration office. Vietnamese authorities will not permit you to depart Vietnam until the exit visa is issued. Processing may take up to 4 working days and a fee is payable.
All foreigners are required to register their place of residence with the local police within 24 hours of arrival. Foreigners staying with family or friends in a private home must comply with this requirement. Failure to do so could result in fines. If you are staying at a hotel, this is done as part of the normal check-in process and you will be required to provide your passport to the hotel for this purpose.
Foreign currency (including cash and travellers cheques) in excess of US$5,000 cash exceeding Vietnamese Dong 15,000,000 and gold exceeding 300 grams must be declared at customs (with supporting documentation) upon arrival and departure. Excess currency and gold not declared may be confiscated at the port of entry/exit and the passenger arrested and/or fined.
Make sure your passport has at least six months’ validity from your planned date of return to Australia. You should carry copies of a recent passport photo with you in case you need a replacement passport while overseas.
Burma
Intriguing and mysterious, Burma, also known as Myanmar, (the name given to it by its military government), is relatively undiscovered, making it perfect for those with an appetite for adventure. With a cultural heritage, spanning over two thousand years dominated by the Buddhist faith, the landscape is peppered with magnificent temples.
The Irrawaddy River (also known as the Ayeyarwady) is the country’s lifeblood, connecting many of the best places to visit. Starting in the south, Yangon (also known as Rangoon) is often called the ‘Garden of the East’ for its parks and streets lined with trees and the Burmese culture is much in evidence here in the imposing golden Shwedagon Pagoda and Chaukhtagyli reclining Buddha. Do visit Bogyoke Aung San Market, where traditional handicrafts, including lacquer ware and silver ware, can easily be purchased.
Following the river north, the ancient city of Bagan, a World Heritage Site, boasts in the region of five-thousand monuments, while Mandalay is steeped in royal and spiritual history, epitomised at Golden Palace Monastery and Mahamuni Pagoda. Bhamo’s market attracts the Kachin,Shan, Lisu and Palaung people, in their traditional dress, while Lake Inle is also worth visiting. Supporting over two-hundred villages, some built on stilts over the water, you can see the ‘leg-rowers’ who row with one leg.
Climate
The best time to visit Yangon is during the cool season (late October to late February) with November to January being particularly appealing as the weather is still warm and rainfall is low – good conditions for touring.
Temperature
These figures show Burma monthly average maximum temperatures and monthly average rainfall.
|
Temp °C |
Rain mm |
|
| January |
32 |
5 |
| February |
35 |
2 |
| March |
36 |
6 |
| April |
37 |
17 |
| May |
33 |
307 |
| June |
30 |
567 |
| July |
30 |
577 |
| August |
30 |
624 |
| September |
30 |
381 |
| October |
32 |
206 |
| November |
32 |
62 |
| December |
32 |
7 |
Useful Information
Capital : Naypyitaw
Language : Burmese
Currency : Kyat
Voltage : 230V
Health : Health facilities, hygiene and disease risks vary worldwide. You should take health advice about your specific needs as early as possible. Sources of information include your General Practitioner or a specialised clinic.
Visa : Visas are required prior to arrival and can be obtained from the Embassy of the Union of Myanmar, Canberra
Visa and other entry and exit conditions (such as currency, customs and quarantine regulations) change regularly. Contact the nearest Embassy or Consulate of Myanmar for the most up to date information.
Travel to and within Myanmar is strictly controlled by government authorities.
Travel to or from Myanmar by land border crossing is possible, but is restricted to a limited number of crossing points. These are:
- Tachilek (Myanmar Shan State)-Mae Sai (Thailand border)
- Muse (Myanmar Shan State)-Ruili (China border)
- Kawthoung (Myanmar Tanintharyi)-Ranong (Thailand border)
You must obtain permission to use these land border transit points prior to travel through a government authorised tour company, which will obtain the required permits from the Myanmar Ministry of Hotel and Tourism. Travel by road within Myanmar to these land border crossings is subject to restrictions. See under Local travel for details.
Customs regulations are restrictive and strictly enforced. In the past, customs authorities have been sensitive about the entry of communications and information technology equipment, such as laptop computers. We recommend travellers who intend to bring such equipment into Myanmar seek the latest available advice from the nearest Embassy or Consulate of Myanmar.
Myanmar customs may hold undeclared items for collection upon departure.
Travellers report that customs authorities closely search luggage on arrival and departure.
Customs officials strictly limit what is brought into the country. There are strict rules governing the export of Myanmar gems. You can seek further advice regarding import and export from the nearest Embassy or Consulate of the Union of Myanmar.
Foreign currency in excess of US$10,000 must be declared upon arrival. Failure to do so could result in imprisonment.
Make sure your passport has at least six months’ validity from your planned date of return to Australia. You should carry copies of a recent passport photo with you in case you need a replacement passport while overseas.
Cambodia
Booking a luxury Cambodia holiday means you can enjoy the country’s treasures while benefiting from superior luxury accommodation and a personal Guide’s extensive knowledge of the region.
Cambodia’s timeless temples, deserted beaches, mighty rivers and remote forests make it probably the most remarkable of South Asia’s last tourism frontiers. Once isolated from the outside world due to war, neglect and social unease, it has opened its doors to reveal an enchanting kingdom full of charisma and charm.
Blessed with a rich cultural heritage dating back thousands of years, it’s a heaven for historians, a treasure-trove for archaeologists and an adventure for those who wonder about the ancient world. It’s home to the magnificent 12th century architectural ruins of Angkor Wat: mysterious temple complex, UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of mankind’s greatest feats of ingenuity, it has become a symbol of hope for the country’s people.
Visa
Visa and other entry and exit conditions (such as currency, customs and quarantine regulations) change regularly. Contact the nearest Embassy or Consulate of Cambodia for the most up to date information.
Australians visiting Cambodia require a visa. The Cambodian Government has introduced an electronic tourist visa (“e-visa”) facility. Travellers are able to apply for a tourist visa on-line through the Cambodian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation’s website. E-visas are only valid for entry through Phnom Penh International Airport, Siem Reap International Airport, Koh Kong City (Cham Yeam), Poipet (Banteay Meanchey) and Bavet (Svay Rieng). E-visas are not supported at other entry points. Your passport must have at least six months’ validity remaining when you arrive in Cambodia on an e-visa.
Cambodian visas are normally available on arrival as well. Your passport must have at least four months’ validity remaining when you apply for a visa on arrival in Cambodia. You should be aware that all neighbouring countries (Thailand, Vietnam and Laos) require passports to have at least six months’ validity. Local immigration authorities may deny entry and deport people who do not meet this requirement, even if they intend staying only for a short period.
Tourist visas are valid for thirty days only. If issued outside Cambodia, tourist visas will often provide for a validity period that is in excess of thirty days. This validity period refers to the period in which you are able to commence your thirty day visit to Cambodia. It does not extend the time you are permitted to stay in Cambodia beyond thirty days. Tourist visas must be renewed if you intend to stay in Cambodia in excess of thirty days. Tourist visas can be renewed once.
Ensure you have a valid visa for the duration of your stay in Cambodia. Penalties for violating immigration laws include fines and/or deportation, at your own expense, and you may be prohibited from entering Cambodia in the future. Australians have been detained for violating immigration laws.
If your passport is stolen during your stay in Cambodia, you will require a police report to obtain an exit visa. The police report must be applied for in person at the tourist police station closest to where the incident occurred.
Cambodian-Thai Border: Six legal international border crossing points are open for foreign travellers on the Cambodian-Thai border at Koh Kong City (Cham Yeam), O Smach (Oddar Meanchey), Poipet (Banteay Meanchey), Prum (Pailin), Dong (Kamrieng Battambang) and Caom (Oddar Meanchey). Cambodian visas can be obtained at these border crossings.
Cambodian-Vietnamese Border: Cambodian visas can be obtained at the international border crossing points at Bavet (Svay Rieng), Kaam Samnor (Kandal Mekong), Trapaing Sre (Kratie) and Phnom Den (Takeo). The Cambodian Ministry of Tourism also reports that Cambodian visas can be obtained on arrival at six other border crossings between Cambodia and Vietnam, but you should confirm this prior to travelling, as entry and exit conditions change regularly. Vietnamese visas must be obtained prior to travelling to the border.
Cambodian-Lao Border: The Lao side of the border crossing at Dong Krolor-Veun Kham is often closed to foreign travellers with little notice. The border crossing is in an isolated location 50km to the north of the Cambodian provincial centre of Stung Treng. It is not serviced by public transport, although rudimentary and unreliable private motor bike and truck services run to Stung Treng. Cambodian and Lao visas cannot be obtained at the border.
If travelling by air between Cambodia and Laos, Cambodian visas can be obtained on arrival at Siem Reap or Phnom Penh international airports.
When travelling overseas, make sure your passport has at least six months’ validity from your planned date of return to Australia. You should carry copies of a recent passport photo with you in case you need a replacement passport while overseas.
Laos
Refreshingly, the traditional ways of life continue here; to hurry is simply not the Laos way. Lao’s Buddhist religion is still intense and the diverse hill tribes retain their age-old cultures. A luxury holiday to Laos is an opportunity to escape from the fast-paced lifestyle of the developed world and indulge in this gentle land’s timeless appeal.
Climate
The best time to visit Laos is between November and February when it’s at its best; the rains are usually finished and the temperatures are milder than between March and May when the country is at its hottest. Monsoon season is between June and October.
Temperature
These figures show Laos monthly average maximum temperatures and monthly average rainfall.
|
Temp °C |
Rain mm |
|
| January |
27 |
16 |
| February |
30 |
20 |
| March |
32 |
33 |
| April |
33 |
110 |
| May |
33 |
161 |
| June |
32 |
257 |
| July |
31 |
241 |
| August |
31 |
299 |
| September |
31 |
182 |
| October |
30 |
121 |
| November |
28 |
40 |
| December |
26 |
12 |
Useful Information
Capital : Vientiane
Language : Lao
Currency : Kip
Voltage : 230v
Health : Health facilities, hygiene and disease risks vary worldwide. You should take health advice about your specific needs as early as possible. Sources of information include your General Practitioner or a specialised clinic.
Visa : Visa and other entry and exit conditions (such as currency, customs and quarantine regulations) change regularly. Contact the nearest Embassy or Consulate of Laos for the most up-to-date information.
You should ensure you obtain an entry stamp on arrival. Failure to do so may result in a fine.
You should use only official border crossing points to enter Laos.
Make sure your passport has at least six months’ validity from your planned date of return to Australia. You should carry copies of a recent passport photo with you in case you need a replacement passport while overseas.
Visas are required for travel to Laos but can be obtained on arrival; a charge of approximately USD$35 or Baht 1,500 will apply. Because conditions change frequently, please contact the Embassy of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic in for the most up-to-date information.
Singapore
Shopping is a major attraction in Singapore, with antiques, electrical goods and clothes being excellent buys. Sightseeing opportunities include Chinatown, Arab Street, Little India and, for panoramic views across Singapore and the southern islands, take the journey up to the top of the Sky Tower. The riverside area is one of the main venues for entertainment, with Boat Quay and Clarke Quay offering an eclectic mix of restaurants, alfresco dining, lively bars and jazz venues. And no visit to Singapore is complete without enjoying a Singapore Sling cocktail at the world-renowned Raffles Hotel, where the drink was created.
Climate
For the most part, Singapore remains hot and humid throughout the year, with tropical temperatures rarely dipping lower than 20°C. From the beginning of November until mid-March, the north east monsoon brings cooler temperatures, as well as the rain when daily showers can last for long periods of time and can be heavy. The south west monsoon (June to September) brings higher temperatures but the least amount of rainfall.
It is advisable to carry a bottle of water with you when you are out exploring so you can keep hydrated, while shopping centres are often overly air-conditioned, so carrying a light cover up with you is often a sensible idea. At any time of year, an umbrella can be useful too.
If it does happen to be a little too hot for you and you’re still a bit tired from your flight, there is enough to do at all our featured Singapore hotels so you can relax or be energetic, as you wish, without leaving your luxury accommodation.
Temperature
These figures show Singapore monthly average maximum temperatures and monthly average rainfall.
|
Temp °C |
Rain mm |
|
| January |
30 |
200 |
| February |
30 |
177 |
| March |
31 |
198 |
| April |
31 |
201 |
| May |
31 |
176 |
| June |
31 |
157 |
| July |
31 |
156 |
| August |
30 |
166 |
| September |
30 |
172 |
| October |
31 |
198 |
| November |
30 |
246 |
| December |
29 |
272 |
Highlights
Shopping
The shopping opportunities in Singapore are amazing and two places worth heading to are the Mustafa Centre which is a 24-hour shopping centre with plenty of jewellery shops, and the famous Orchard Road and is world-renowned for its retail and entertainment options. Orchard Road is over two kilometres long and features department stores and shopping malls, including the DFS (Duty Free Shopping) Galleria Scottswalk, which specialises in luxury goods including watches, fashion, handbags and cosmetics. In general, electrical goods and clothes are amongst the items that tend to be particularly good buys in Singapore. If you’re after a more quirky alternative to the big stores, Clarke Quay is home to antique shops and a flea market on Sundays.
Sightseeing
Delve into Singapore’s heritage in the suburbs that offer a fascinating education and insight into the various cultures that make up the nation. These include Chinatown, where you can visit the Chinatown Heritage Centre and see reconstructed rooms as they would have looked in the late-19th and early-20th centuries. Or, perhaps take a walk through Little India (home to the Mustafa Centre mentioned above) where you are sure to smell the potent blend of spices mixing with incense in the air around you, and see traditional trades – and quite possible even come across a fortune teller, ready to read your future.
If you like visiting museums, there are some interesting venues to choose from, including the oldest, The National Museum, which houses national treasures and presents exhibitions about Singapore’s history. Meanwhile, the Singapore Art Museum showcases a selection of contemporary and modern Asian artworks.
If you’ve a head for heights, it’s worth making a beeline for either the Sky Tower that rises (in about seven minutes) to 131 metres, or the 165-metre tall observation wheel, which is similar to the London Eye – you’ll be rewarded with far-reaching views over the city and islands of Singapore. Families can enjoy these attractions, but for a full day out, Universal Studios– offers seven zones including ‘Hollywood’, ‘Ancient Egypt’ and ‘Madagascar’, perfect for those who like to have fun.
Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and discover the relative tranquillity of the Botanic Gardens. If you’re up early you can go for a morning jog or watch the locals practice Tai Chi. Or, you can follow the pathways through the rainforest and admire the various features including the lakes, sculptures, fountains, fruit trees, orchid garden, healing garden and children’s garden. Refreshments are available in the gardens too.
Cuisine
Food, as in much of Asia, is a national pastime and, with such a wealth of international dining options to discover, you certainly won’t go hungry. Boat Quay and Clarke Quay in the riverside area features an eclectic mix of restaurants and alfresco dining, as well as lively bars and jazz venues.
Spa
Asia is renowned for its spa therapies and many hotels offer luxurious experiences and extensive treatment options, including couple’s treatments, alongside hot and cold dip pools, complemented by spa cuisine, if you wish try some
Useful Information
Capital : Singapore City
Language : English
Currency : Singapore Dollar
Voltage : 220/240v
Visa and other entry and exit conditions (such as currency, customs and quarantine regulations) change regularly. Contact the nearest Embassy, High Commission or Consulate of Singapore, for the most up-to-date information.
Make sure your passport has at least six months’ validity from your planned date of return to Australia. You should carry copies of a recent passport photo with you in case you need to replace your passport while overseas. Singapore authorities require all travellers (including those transiting Singapore) to have at least six months’ validity remaining on their passports. Many Australians with less than six months’ validity on their passports have been refused entry into, or exit from, Singapore. If you are refused exit from Singapore, you will need to apply for an emergency passport, which can take the High Commission up to two working days to process.
People carrying controlled drugs require an import permit before entering Singapore. Permits may be required for medication available over-the-counter in Australia. For more information, contact the Health Science Authority in Singapore.
Singapore has severe penalties for illegal immigration and visa overstay, including fines, imprisonment and corporal punishment.
Indonesia
An archipelago renowned for being the largest of its kind, with over 17,000 islands scattered disorderly across the Equator, it is fundamentally a collection of the ‘world’s largest’. From the world’s largest lizard, the infamous Komodo Dragon, to the world’s largest flower, which is a three-foot-wide orchid, Indonesia’s extremes are vast and stupendous. The terrain is a smorgasbord of lakes and gorges, dense hillside forestry and active volcanoes, with billowing smoke cascading down lush, green mantles and water-logged plains. Those who dare, will stand beneath the colossal mountains and bask in their undeniable power.
Ramadan, which is observed for one month each year, is a period of fasting when the pace of life is slower, public areas are busier and there are certain restrictions, for example, consuming food in public, drinking alcohol and use of restaurants. In 2013, Ramadan will be celebrated for one month from 9th July.
Capital : Jakarta
Language : Bahasa Indonesia
Currency : Indonesia Rupiah
Voltage : 220v
Health : Health facilities, hygiene and disease risks vary worldwide. You should take health advice about your specific needs as early as possible. Sources of information include your General Practitioner or a specialised clinic.
Visa : Visas are required prior to arrival and can be obtained from the Indonesian Embassy in Canberra, a charge of approximately USD$25 will apply.
Visa and other entry and exit conditions (such as currency, customs and quarantine regulations) change regularly. Contact the nearest Embassy or Consulate of Indonesia for the most up-to-date information.
You should ensure you have the correct, current visa at all times, otherwise you may be fined, jailed, deported or banned from re-entering Indonesia for a period of time.
Visitors may be granted a 30-day visa on arrival for a fee of USD25 (this is not available to foreigners entering Indonesia through the land border between East Timor and Indonesian West Timor). Some airlines flying from Australia to Jakarta may offer a visa processing service on board the flight.
Visitors travelling on an Emergency Passport will only be able to enter Indonesia if they have obtained a visa from an Embassy or Consulate of Indonesia.
Visas are non-transferable, but may be extended once for an additional 30 days without leaving the country. The period of stay for visas is calculated from the day of arrival. Part days are counted as whole days. Fines are imposed for each additional day in Indonesia.
If you are staying in private residence (not a hotel), you are required to register with the local Rukun Tetangga (RT) Office and the local police when you arrive. If you plan to be in Indonesia for more than 90 days, you must register with the local immigration office and hold the correct visa.
Make sure your passport has at least six months’ validity from your planned date of return to Australia. You should also carry copies of a recent passport photo with you in case you need a replacement passport while overseas.
All persons departing Indonesia are required to pay 150,000 IDR Departure Tax (in Indonesian currency) at the point of departure.
Climate
The islands enjoy high temperatures and humidity year-round. However, the best time to visit is between April and October. Heavy rains interspersed with periods of bright sunshine can be expected between November and March.
Temperature
These figures show Indonesia monthly average maximum temperatures and monthly average rainfall.
|
Temp °C |
Rain mm |
|
| January | 30 | 328 |
| February | 30 | 261 |
| March | 31 | 225 |
| April | 31 | 117 |
| May | 30 | 107 |
| June | 30 | 90 |
| July | 29 | 119 |
| August | 29 | 53 |
| September | 30 | 116 |
| October | 31 | 173 |
| November | 31 | 187 |
| December | 31 | 258 |