ASEAN Life Vol: 2 March - May 2014 | Page 28

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travel tips

Floating fishing village in Halong Bay

Whether you are going to a popular tourist destination
in Southeast Asia such as Thailand, Singapore, Malaysia, the
Philippines or Vietnam or in some other places that are “off the
beaten path,” --- tranquil and less frequented by tourists --- you
should keep in mind that petty thieves come with the territory. It is
Couples kayaking

still advisable not to bring and wear expensive jewelry. If you have

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some valuables you want to wear for a special evening, then keep
them locked in the hotel safe. Separate your credit cards, carry loose

the travel
warnings

dress code travel and
for special medical
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bills and keep the higher denominations in a belt bag or hidden
pouch. Have coins ready for minor purchases.
Be aware of dress codes for most places in Southeast Asia.
Remember that their culture is different and some are still
conservative when it comes to clothing. Do not bring too many
clothes. Good quality clothes are quite cheap in Southeast Asia and
the choices are numerous and varied. Remember, too, that there

P

lanning your honeymoon this summer? Lucky you! Southeast

take time to change official documents, women should book their

are countries where public displays of affection are frowned upon.

Asia is a wonderful region to spend your honeymoon in, but

tickets in their maiden name to avoid hassles at the airport. Be sure

What’s a honeymoon without plenty of pictures? Most

in whatever country you are headed to, consider your safety

that you and your spouse are covered by international travel and

smartphones have good built-in cameras. If you want something

medical insurance.

better, it is best to invest in an inexpensive digital camera to record

so that you can have a truly enjoyable, memorable and worry-free

Make photocopies of your itinerary, your passports, tickets,

honeymoon.

your memorable moments instead of bringing expensive cameras

What comes first? Your passports and visas. Your passports

traveler’s checks and other personal documents --- and leave them

should be valid for at least six months. Visas are mandatory in some

with someone at home. You should also have one set of photocopies

Learn some useful words and phrases beforehand so you can

countries. While you are busy with your wedding preparations, you

with you, which you can carry around as you explore the city and

get immediate assistance. Plan to have fun in Southeast Asia and

should also be working on your travel requirements. If you are from

keep the original in the hotel safe. Always keep your bags with you.

sample local cuisine. Enjoy every moment of togetherness as

the United States, do check the travel warnings as well as the entry

Carry the phone number, name and address of your hotel at all times

newlyweds. Follow these tips and you will have a wonderful, exciting

and exit requirements for the country you intend to visit. Since it will

and know the emergency numbers for medical or police assistance.

and stress-free honeymoon! v

28

MAR-APR 2014

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and always worrying that these might fall into the wrong hands.

www.asean-life.com

MAR-APR 2014

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