Recent Tripwise Articles

Visa and vaccinations for Canada

Fri, 27 Jul 2012 06:07:50 GMT

Visa

Australians travelling to or transiting through Canada by air, including those who previously did not need visas prior to arrival, are required to obtain an electronic travel authorisation (eTA) prior to arrival in Canada. You can apply only through the official website for an eTA online, or visit the Visit Canada website for more information.

Via USA

If you intend to reach Canada via the USA, don’t forget you’ll need to meet US visa and transit requirements. Australians qualify for the visa-waiver program for the US, but you’ll still need a completed Electronic System for Travel Authorisation (ESTA). Think of it as a permit to go visa-free. You need to be issued with an ESTA at least 72 hours before departing for the US.

Vaccination

The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends all travellers should be covered for, Diphtheria, Tetanus, Measles, Mumps, Rubella, and Polio. If you were not vaccinated as a child consult with a doctor. Tetanus and Diphtheria require booster shots every 10 years. Vaccination against Hepatitis A and B is also wise.

Drug laws

Despite its apparent liberal attitude to drug use, don't make the mistake of lighting up.

Canada is the leader of the industrialised world for cannabis use, toking at around four times the global average. Canadians’ relatively liberal attitude to cannabis use often leads to misunderstandings about the country’s drug laws.

Marijuana is not legal here. Police will pursue and prosecute people caught in possession of the drug so don’t expect to get away with it because you’re on holiday.

This information is correct as at 20 November 2017. Check the respective Canadian government website/s for the latest information and details.

Know before you go

Mon, 10 Sep 2012 00:54:21 GMT

This information is correct as at 20 November 2017. Check the respective Government website/s for the latest information and details.

Passport

Make sure you can find your passport, and that it isn’t about to expire. Immigration officials won’t let you in if your passport isn’t valid for 6 months longer than the date of your return. It can take two weeks to issue a new passport, so check it now.

The following relates to Australian CITIZENS. (If you are a Permanent Resident of Australia but a national of another country, check with your Consulate to see what entry and visa conditions apply.)

Visa and vaccinations for the Philippines

Thu, 16 Aug 2012 04:47:36 GMT

Visa

Australians can visit the Philippines visa-free for up to 30 days as long as you have an onward or return ticket and money to support yourself during your stay – an itinerary and a credit card will usually do if you’re asked. If you intend stay longer than 3 weeks you’ll need a visa, issued by the consulate or embassy.

Travel with children

Children below 15 years of age travelling to the Philippines alone or with only one parent must get an Affidavit of Support and Consent from the Consulate. It’s a document that shows the parents/other parent give permission for the child to travel. At the airport in the Philippines, they must present this to the immigration authorities and get a Waiver of Exclusion Ground (WEG). There’s a small fee for this.

Vaccination and health

There’s no Malaria in Manila, but it is common in provincial areas.

Dengue Fever is a problem everywhere, including tourist areas and Manila.

Other mosquito-borne diseases like Japanese Encephalitis and Filariasis also occur, especially in the wet season between June and November. You may want to consider anti-Malarials and vaccination against JE, but there’s no immunisation for Dengue Fever. The only precaution is to avoid insect bite – wear long, loose-fitting, light-coloured clothing, cover exposed skin with insect repellent, make sure your accommodation is mosquito-proof or sleep under bed nets.

There’s the full gamut of nasty tropical, water-borne, food-borne and infectious diseases including cholera, typhoid, hepatitis, tuberculosis, measles, meningitis, leptospirosis, bilharzia and rabies, but you’re unlikely to encounter them unless you leave the tourist resort areas or major towns and head to provincial areas.

Drink bottled water, and avoid ice cubes and raw and undercooked food.

Indonesia Volcano Travel Alert

Mon, 02 Jun 2014 01:06:10 GMT

Current as of Wednesday 20 Sept 2017 04:00pm AEST

There has been an increase in volcanic activity over the past several weeks at Mount Agung, Bali. For the latest update, please visit the Travel Alerts section of our website.

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Information below was last updated Monday, June 02, 2014 11:06:10 AM

A massive eruption from a volcano in Indonesia is causing disruption to flights to Southeast Asia, especially Bali. The eruption has created an ash cloud that is a danger to aviation. As eruptions continue the ash cloud grows in size and affects different parts of the region.

Travellers are advised to keep an eye on the news regarding the volcano and check with their airlines about possible delays and cancellations.

The Sangeang Api volcano is about half way between Bali and Timor.

Is my flight affected?

If you’re planning on travelling to northern Australia (Kununurra, Darwin, Alice Springs, Cairns, Townsville, or Brisbane), Southeast Asia, or anywhere else in the world via Asia and the Middle East (in other words with stopovers or connections in places such as Singapore, Hong Kong, Japan or Dubai) you should check with your airline.

Qantas Airways on 13 13 13
Virgin Australia on 13 67 89
Jetstar Australia on 13 15 38
SilkAir on 13 10 11
Air North on 1800 627 474

Can I change my flights?

Before you cancel flights and/or book new tickets it is important you speak to your airline, and check with them what arrangements they can make.

Qantas, Jetstar and Virgin have already announced they will assist passengers to reschedule their flights without imposing additional fees. Other airlines will most likely follow suit.

Am I covered?

Generally, this is what travel insurance is for - an unforeseen event, and it's important you read this advice to TID policy holders.

If your policy was purchased prior to 3am Saturday 31st May AEST and your travel plans have been impacted by the ash cloud, you may have cover for:

cancellation costs
additional expenses
travel delay

If you purchase a policy after this time and date you will be covered in the usual way for events except those related to the volcano (in other words, theft, medical etc, but not flights, hotels and other travel delayed or cancelled because of the ash cloud). Again this is general advice only, and you should check your policy for details.

What does my policy cover?

For example, if you were unable fly as scheduled from Bali back to Australia on Sunday morning due to the ash cloud affecting your flight, you can submit a claim for reasonable additional accommodation expenses incurred until you are able to return.

If your trip hasn’t started and you are able to change your travel plans, you can claim for the cost to rearrange your trip, provided the cost is not greater than your cancellation fees and lost deposits.

A word of warning

If you are stuck somewhere because of a cancellation or delay, don’t use it as an excuse to “upgrade” yourself and think TID will pick up the bill no matter what. So, don’t buy business class tickets because they were the only ones available,or check yourself into a six star hotel for the night (and empty the mini-bar). As a general rule you can’t “profit” from an insurance claim - we’ll try our bet to make things “square” but it’s not an excuse to splurge at someone else’s expense.

Packing list

Tue, 14 Jun 2016 01:54:37 GMT

Essentials

Passport (check it's expiry!)
Visas - you don't want to be turned away
Vaccinations - don't come home with an unwanted nasty
Travel insurance (of course!)
Your itinerary and any boarding passes or tickets
Photos or photocopies of the above
Mobile phone - great in an emergency, even better if you have Tripwise.
A writing instrument to complete immigration forms

Clothing

Whether your packing a suitcase or a backpack, we've found that Space Travel Bags are a fantastic way to pack more in less by removing the air. Sounds simple, but they're really very effective.

Boots
Shirts or dresses
Hat
Jacket
Jeans
Long sleeve shirts
Rain jacket
Scarf
Shoes
Shorts
Sneakers
Socks
Sunglasses
Sweater or fleece
Swimming gear
T-shirts
Trousers
Underwear

Money

ATM card
Cash (local currency of your arrival destination)
Credit cards
Money belt

Toiletries

Anti-bacterial cream
Clothes line
Comb or brush
Contraceptives
Contact lens equipment
Cotton buds
Dental floss
Deodorant
Nail clippers
Lip balm
Make-up
Mirror
Shampoo & conditioner
Shaving cream and razors - pack safely and never in carry-on luggage
Body lotion or soap
Sunscreen
Tampons and pads
Toothbrush and toothpaste

Travel Accessories

Spare batteries
Safety pins are always useful
iPad or Kindle - don't forget your charger!
Water bottle
Camera (plus spare memory card)
Battery charger and spare batteries
Day pack or shoulder bag
Plastic cup
Eating utensils
Electrical adapter and plug converter
Guidebook
Travel pillow
International driving license
Mosquito net
Padlock
Ziplock plastic bags
Sleeping bag or mat
Swiss army knife (don't put it in your hand luggage as it will be confiscated)
Torch
Towels
Universal sink plug
Umbrella
Wet wipes - fantastic for cleaning hands before eating
Sewing kit

First Aid Kit

Band aids
Compression bandages
Diarrhoea tablets
Gauzes
Insect or mosquito repellent
Iodine/hydrogen peroxide
Prescription medicines
Motion sickness tablets
Paracetemol
Rehydration salts sachets
Small scissors
Tweezers
Water purifying tablet
Yellow Fever certificate

If you have your own packing suggestions that you think we should add, please tell us!

Welcome Back

Thu, 07 Jun 2012 00:04:06 GMT

If things didn’t quite go according to plan and you need to make a claim, we’re sorry to hear that, but you can ensure prompt payment by following our How To Claim guide online.

The whole process is done online, so there's no filling in forms by hand and waiting for the post, you can get the process started right away. We'll tell you what documents you need, how to make digital copies of them, and guide you through the process step-by-step.

If you need help with the process, or have feedback on our service, you can contact us online or give us a call on 1300 843 843. We’d love to hear from you.

A guide to taking prescription medicines overseas

Tue, 12 Jun 2012 04:07:17 GMT

If you take prescribed medications, go to your doctor and get enough to last the duration of your trip, plus a couple of extra in case you're delayed or lose a couple down the sink!

Doctor's note

While you're there ask the doctor for a letter verifying they’re only for your personal use, stating their drug (not brand) name, what you’re taking them for, and in what dosage. You may need to show this to officials at your destination.

Carry medicines in their original packaging with prescription labels showing your name attached.

If you use strong, opiod (morphine-based) pain-killers, medically prescribed narcotics, psychotropics or other treatments for addiction (methadone for example) you will need to get a special permit before you arrive.

This may include Codeine-based medicines (which are prescription-only in Australia). Contact the relevant embassy for details.

What's allowed

In any case, be careful with what you pack, some countries have very strict definitions of what is an illegal drug, and in some cases its things you can buy from the pharmacy or get on prescription in Australia, like cough and cold medicines with high concentrations of pseudoephedrine or codeine.

As a general rule, if you bought the cough or cold medicine off the shelf it's okay, Australia banned unregulated sale of codeine and pseudoephedrine some years ago.

But if you were prescribed the medicine by a doctor, or had to speak to the pharmacist and sign a form to get the medicine it MAY have higher than allowed concentrations of those drugs in it, check with a pharmacist or doctor, or leave them at home.

Non-prescription medicines, such as vitamins and supplements should also be carried in their original packaging, so authorities can identify them and don't mistake them for illegal medicines.

How much is allowed

Most countries allow only a one month supply of medicines to be brought in, so if you’re on an extended trip you may need to explain why you have more than that. A copy of your itinerary or return airline ticket should do, but some countries ‘officially’ require a special permit, although in practice it's rarely enforced.

If you want to play it safe and stick to the 30 day supply rule, remember Australian prescriptions are not valid overseas, so you'll need to find a local doctor and get a local prescription - that doctor's letter from home will be really useful here.

Cheap medicines

Never take PBS medicines out of Australia to sell or give to anyone else. Rorting the subsidy scheme is considered a serious crime with heavy penalties, including up to 2 years jail!

Full moon party survival guide - Thailand

Wed, 27 Jun 2012 05:27:08 GMT

The full moon party on Thailand's Koh Phangan, is it really dangerous? Check out this simple guide to make sure you party hard - and survive to tell the tale.

Scooter accidents

The number one danger is a motor scooter accident. Inexperienced or unlicensed riders, many who’ve been drinking (or worse) all night, come a cropper with scary regularity on the island. A tank top and flip-flops are not approved motorcycle safety gear!

Beware the bucket drinks

Next watch out for the bucket drinks. Literally a bucket of alcohol and caffeine-laced additives, it’s hard to keep a tally on your consumption. The consequences are: you could get really, seriously ill, get robbed while you’re comatose, sexually assaulted, or wind up in a fight.

Skip the burning rope

It’s a rope soaked in kerosene, set alight, and swung around in a circle and as many people as possible join in until it hits someone. The resulting burns are so common they’re known as Koh Phangan Tattoos. If you like the skin you're in, skip the burning skipping rope - as in, give it a miss.

Theft at the party

So many mobile phones, cameras, purses and wallets all in one place with their owners already distracted by the sights and sounds around them. Leave it all locked up back at your accommodation.

Party drugs

Of course you wouldn’t dare brave Thailand’s strict anti-drugs laws and risk a long, long stay in a really awful prison, would you? And watch out for the drug sellers who set you up with the local police – they’re probably in on this together, but you’ll still go to jail (or pay a huge trip-ending bribe to avoid it).

A guide to bribery

Mon, 10 Feb 2014 01:36:58 GMT

Corruption is endemic throughout Southeast Asia, worse in some countries, but present just about everywhere. At the top echelons there are reports of multi-million dollar kickbacks to government officials. But as a tourist the officialdom you’re most likely to encounter are police and low-level public service clerks.

Bribing officials

These people are generally paid poorly. They rely on the support of their communities to make the wage livable – which means payments for making the wheels of bureaucracy turn a little faster, or in the case of police, a little something from the businesses they serve and protect.

A generous interpretation is that they provide service without favour, and in return the locals treat these officials with the honour and respect their status deserves. Being a tourist with (relatively-speaking) lots of money, you should do the same.

Still, it remains illegal to offer a bribe. Be a little subtle. Don’t call it a bribe; ask if there’s a special fee to speed up the process, or if you can pay the fine “on the spot”, or if you can “help” the official in some way.

Dealing with police

Police in this region are serious guys with a tough job.

* Be courteous and act reasonably at all times.
* Don’t smile or talk to a police officer unless he talks to you first.
* Don’t be a dumb farang and draw attention to yourself by being drunk or loud.
* Don’t raise your voice, or make demands and threats.
* If you’re in the wrong expect little mercy.
* If you’re in a dispute it’s more than likely they’ll side with the local not you, even if you’re not at fault. Just accept this.

Bribing police – when and how much?

There’s an easy way to work out how much to bribe a police officer – sorry, we mean how much honour and respect to give him – it’s whatever the fine would be. Fines are not huge amounts, so offer to pay it on-the-spot. “No receipt required, officer.”

In most destinations police are paid monthly, so it can be common to see them on the streets at the end of the month looking for ways to issue on-the-spot fines to tide them over till pay day.

Tourist scams in Thailand - a guide.

Wed, 27 Jun 2012 05:11:45 GMT

Simple scams

Don’t play Connect Four with the kids, they’ve memorized every move and you can’t win.

The ‘winning’ scratch lottery ticket is a ruse to get you to a dodgy time-share property sales pitch.

Don’t use credit cards for public payphones, you could get skimmed or pay $20US a minute.

Check your change, with so many zeroes on the note it’s pretty common to get short-changed.

The gem scam

A tuk tuk driver will offer you a free, or very cheap, ride to a tourist spot. You’ll meet seemingly random people who tell you about the benefits of buying gems.

You will be whisked to a store where you are promised a special offer on jewels for a limited time only.

Don’t fall for it – they’re worthless pieces of glass.

Bird feed

Outside the Grand Palace there are hundreds of pigeons which are fed by a team of locals. The bird feeder may hand you a couple of bags. Then, when you have burnt through your stash, you get hit for the cash - anything from 10 to 1000 Baht.

They can be very aggressive hoping you’ll pay up just so they stop making a scene. It’s simply best to not feed the birds (or the scammers).

Fake police

A favourite among many fake officers is to issue an on-the-spot fine of up to 5000 Baht for extinguishing a cigarette in public. If you protest, they will probably reduce the fine quickly to about 1000 Baht.

If they are negotiating with you over a fine, you can be pretty sure they are not legitimate cops.

If they carry on, simply say “Sa-Tanee Tum-Ruat!” – Thai for “Police Station!

Your rights are that police cannot search you in public – you are entitled to go to the police station, so don’t let anyone touch you until you are there!

A guide to Thai bar girls & ladyboys

Tue, 20 Jun 2017 04:15:31 GMT

Bar Girls make up a large proportion of the estimated 300,000 sex workers in Thailand, in an industry that is as highly lucrative as it is exploitative.

Despite the dire cultural and social impact this has on the country, the real danger is that HIV/AIDS, and other infectious venereal diseases are rife in Thailand.

More than half a million Thais are said to be suffering from HIV/AIDS – and the amount carrying other sexually transmitted infections is almost incalculable.

Ladyboys

Ladyboys are common in Thailand’s entertainment and tourism industry, but they are a minority of Thai culture away from the nightclubs. Still, Thai culture makes many accommodations for their life choice. You may even see 3 types of toilet; male, female and ladyboy.

If you do decide to engage a young woman in conversation in a bar make sure your ladyboy "radar" is swithced to high. You don't want to cause offence by asking outright and they may be a little coy with the truth. Tread carefully unless you're not afraid of getting more than you bargained for.

The number one rule is RESPECT.

They are an unusual sight, but respect their life choice – or else. Some of them move in packs and are usually adept at Muay Thai fighting. If you disrespect them you’ll get your butt kicked by size 10 high heels.

A guide to Thai bar girls & ladyboys

Wed, 27 Jun 2012 05:23:08 GMT

Bar Girls make up a large proportion of the estimated 300,000 sex workers in Thailand, in an industry that is as highly lucrative as it is exploitative.

For the victims of child prostitution and sex slavery it’s their exploiters who reap the majority of the billions of Baht spent on sex tourism each year.

Despite the dire cultural and social impact this has on the country, the real danger is that HIV/AIDS, and other infectious venereal diseases are rife in Thailand.

More than half a million Thais are said to be suffering from HIV/AIDS – and the amount carrying other sexually transmitted infections is almost incalculable.

Ladyboys

The number one rule is RESPECT.

Tips for using tuk tuks in Thailand

Tue, 20 Jun 2017 03:59:07 GMT

Riding in tuk-tuks is a fun way to travel around Thailand – but there are a few things to keep in mind if you decide to use them.

Firstly, it’s dangerous! Tuk-tuk drivers go really, really fast, and the vehicles offer no accident protection, you will come off second best in a collision. Keep your hands and feet well inside, and hang on!

Bargain your fare before you board.

Make sure that your fare is actually set, it’s a common trick to negotiate a fare that sounds like another one (the old 14Baht/40Baht confusion). Write down the fare before you take a ride.

Watch for tuk-tuk drivers overcharging, especially in main resorts like Patong. If your fare results in a dispute, drivers can become very aggressive, and even violent.

Set your destination, and make sure your driver takes you there. Tuk-tuk drivers can be paid by vendors or venue operators to veer from their intended course. If you have a feeling that you are being steered down the wrong path, say “yoot tee nee” (Stop here).

Thailand doesn’t always share the notion that it’s up to the operators to ensure the safety of their passengers.

No-one will say you can’t hang from the back step of the vehicle with one hand, no-one will insist you do up your seat belt (what’s a seat belt!).

It’s your responsibility to look after yourself. Because it’s ‘allowed’ doesn’t mean it’s safe, or sensible. Take care.

Many of the places you’re visiting are very poor. People improvise and just make things work. There’s no money left to worry about maintenance or safety standards – that’s part of the charm and sense of adventure.

But it does mean not every vehicle you’re about to board is up to scratch. Obviously you can’t run a safety audit every time, but trust your instinct – if it looks dodgy and badly maintained it probably is, catch the next one.

Dealing with tummy troubles while travelling

Tue, 12 Jun 2012 04:16:14 GMT

Gastro and Travellers diarrhoea

Did you know that perhaps 10% of claims that we see are related to gastro or travellers diarrhoea? We'd really prefer you to have a better holiday, so with a little guidance and travel discipline, both can largely be avoided. Here's how.

Understand what causes it.

Travellers diarrhoea: all water, including the stuff you drink at home, contains micro-organisms and low-level bacteria. Just enough for your stomach to process without much trouble. But every time you change location, or change water source, you get a slightly different mix, and it takes time for your system to adjust. That’s why you get the runs for a day or two.

Gastroenteritis is caused by viruses, bacteria or parasites, usually by eating or drinking something that is contaminated. This could be drinking contaminated water or eating contaminated raw fruits and vegetables, eating contaminated food, eating undercooked meat (especially chicken), and not washing your hands after handling infected animals. It is also easily spread through person-to-person contact such as touching contaminated hands, faeces or vomit, or by drinking contaminated water or food.

How to avoid it.

While the chances of you getting this vary from country to country, it's never a pleasant experience, so if you assume the worst and follow these easy tips, you'll significantly improve your chances of avoiding this.

Wash your hands. Let me repeat that: wash your hands with soap. Not once or twice a day; but like, 20 or 30 times a day. Imagine your are in the middle of a bacterial warzone: touch and excalator handrail and go for a cup of juice - wash your hands. Lunchtime stop - wash your hands. Street food snack - wash your hands. Get back to your hotel after a hot day out - wash your hands (you'll be astonished, the water will be grey or brown!). Go out for dinner - wash your hands. With soap. It might sound extreme, but if there is ONE thing you can do to avoid it, it's this. Most food & accommodation places have a toilet or bathroom, usually with soap to some level of hygiene, but remember, water isn't enough, so if you can't find a washroom and/or it doesn't have soap, then use anti-bacterial hand-wipes.

Interestingly, WaterAid, one of the NGO's whose projects we help fund, says that this was a common problem in Western cultures in the nineteenth century. Everyone learned to wash their hands and got cleaned up, so we now all live in a generally clean culture ... and many of us promptly forgot these basic hygiene lessons.

Anti-bacterial handwipes and gels: When we travel, we always carry several packets and tubes of each. When you can't wash your hands with soap, these are the next best thing.

Don't drink the tap water: don't assume the tap water is clean. It might be for the locals, but almost certainly not for you. Don't drink it, don't brush your teeth with it, and don't drink any while you're in the shower or the pool. Even tiny quantities in your mough can give you Travellers diarrhoea. Be mindful. Buy and use bottled water for drinking and brushing your teeth. While it might be a hassle, it's better than gastro' we can assure you.

Avoid the ice: this varies by country, but on the whole, assume the worst and avoid the ice, which has proably been made from the local water supply.

What to do if you do get it.

If you do get it, first, stop it spreading! Be ultra-mindful of what and where you touch, wash your hands even more frequently, rest, and above all, stay hydrated (with bottled water) so that this doesn't turn into a more potentially harmful situation.

If the diarrhoea lasts more than a week, go and see a doctor because you're at risk of complications caused by becoming dehydrated.

How to eat street food - and live!

Sun, 04 Aug 2013 23:54:05 GMT

Fresh, please

Don’t eat anything that’s been sitting around for even a short while. Insist on the food being freshly prepared for you. If the street vendor won’t cook you a fresh dish, go to another vendor who will.

Pick the food stalls that have a lot of people at them, the locals will quickly learn which ones are safe. A food stall that’s popular will have a high turnover of produce, again nothing is left sitting around to go ‘off’ or let the flies get at it.

Keep it clean

Another tip, watch for a stall that looks clean and fly-free.

And try to watch the vendor’s hands, make sure a dirty thumb doesn’t get stuck in your dish.

Have a think about the utensils the vendor provides. Have they been washed properly? Is the washing water clean? Probably not. So take out your handy bottle of anti-bacterial hand gel, and give the utensils a wipe. Give your hands the once over while you’re at it.

Want extra chilli? Go on, be brave, but think twice bout taking a pinch from that communal bowl of flakes on the table, who else has dipped their digits in there? Ask the vendor for a fresh bowl.

Tips for using tuk tuks in Thailand

Wed, 27 Jun 2012 05:02:06 GMT

Riding in tuk-tuks is a fun way to travel around Thailand – but there are a few things to keep in mind if you decide to use them.

Bargain your fare before you board.

Make sure that your fare is actually set, it’s a common trick to negotiate a fare that sounds like another one (the old 14Baht/40Baht confusion). Write down the fare before you take a ride.

Watch for tuk-tuk drivers overcharging, especially in main resorts like Patong. If your fare results in a dispute, drivers can become very aggressive, and even violent.

Thailand doesn’t always share the notion that it’s up to the operators to ensure the safety of their passengers.

No-one will say you can’t hang from the back step of the vehicle with one hand, no-one will insist you do up your seat belt (what’s a seat belt!).

It’s your responsibility to look after yourself. Because it’s ‘allowed’ doesn’t mean it’s safe, or sensible. Take care.

Questions and answers about Thailand

Tue, 18 Dec 2012 00:43:50 GMT

Question:

As a single woman travelling alone, have you any advice on transport? Can I hire a guide or local to help plan transport and make recommendations based on what I'd like to do? Are there general areas of the country that I should avoid?

Answers:

Do not take the local tuk tuk as the drivers there will surely cheat. It's safer and cheap in a taxi. We three girls had gone there recently and the travel agency duped us. If anyone tells u about some lucky Buddha do not believe. Try not to trust anyone u meet. Always carry a map with you. Before u try any fruits in the streets ask for the price coz I saw them charge a lot from a group of foreign ladies and when she protested the seller threw a mango on on of the ladies face. They tried to report to a policeman but it was useless. As most the policemen out there do not understand English. It is indeed a beautiful place to visit but there are some people out there who will try and cheat.

Question:

Can anyone suggest the most beautiful beach in Thailand? I want to go to the sea, especially in the south of Thailand.

Answers:

* Head to the Koh Lanta, a small island off the coast of Krabi. You can get a boat from Phuket or Krabi. It is not yet a large tourist destination so prices are kept low and even during peak season, it is not over crowded. You can dive, swim, snorkel, drive, cycle and walk your way around the island. It has a sleepy town feel and you find a combination of authentc Thai food as well as authentic German bakery due to the number of European expats who have made this place their own. The water is so clear, you can be neck deep and still see your feet. It is everything I imagined Thai beaches to be.

* Find time for Krabi. It is not so much a tourist trap and still boasts fine beaches when you visit the little islands around it. Also, I had the best time rock climbing there. You can always catch a van ride from Phuket to Krabi for a small fee.

* Li pe island at Trang , southern province of thailand.

* So many Islands to choose from... try Ko Similan if you love snorkelling.

Question:

What to pack for one month in Thailand and Cambodia? I'm leaving for a month backpacking trip and have no idea what to pack. Flops are a must but will light weight merrell maryjanes be suffice? Or should I brink along the hikers as well?how many shirts? Skirts? Shorts? Pants and long sleeves?

Answers:

* If you are a walker, you'll definitely want to bring light hikers. Depending on time of year, a light rain jacket, long sleeve shirt(s) ( which can double as a jacket of sorts for cooler evenings or going inti smarter places), flashlight/headlamp, sarong (great as beach towel, sheet, pillow cover, skirt, etc) sunhat, light dress, bathing suit, sports bra. I basically think what you need for a week trip (& adventure activities you will do), will also serve for a month (though I bulk on underwear for longer trips) because I do laundry along the way. There will be plenty of places that will do your laundry all in that area, so pack light!

* Pack well for one week, get your laundry done cheaply along the way and you'll be fine. One other tip regarding the fabrics of your clothes: take really light fabrics that are loose to wear to let the air circulate. It can be really hot and humid and things like denim jeans will feel like lead weights. I arrived win Cambodia with some lightweight jeans style pants, or so I thought! Within 24 hours I was visiting a market stall and trying on some super loose silk 3/4 length pants which cost me about $6USD. Not the best made clothes I have ever bought, but they lasted well for 2 months and would wash and dry very quickly. Also, be aware that you often cannot have bare shoulders or short skirts when visiting temples - a short sleeve shirt to pop over the top of a tank top is very handy.

Question:

Is there a nice silver market in Bangkok where I can buy good silver rings and jewellery?

Answers:

* If u looking for quality with affordable price, i suggest u to go to the north. There's a city like Chiangrai or Chiangmai. But if what u looking for is a high-Quality with its unique design, you can go to premium shopping mall like Siam Paragon or Kaesorn. Those malls located in Bangkok.

* Just get in any tuk-tuk or taxi, they will take you to a jewelry shop. And I'm not kidding.

* Go to the Big Shopping Malls i.e. Paragorn or (better) Emporium. Both have BTS Skytrain Station stop linked with the Malls. Avoid shops suggested by tuk-tuk drivers...crap items.

Question:

I really want to rent a motorcycle to get around in AoNang and Ko Lanta but heard there are many scams in Thailand. Is it safe to rent here?

Answers:

* Rent your bike from your hotel. They will arrange for the bike from a trustworthy shop or person. Usually they will produce an application form that will state for the lease of the bike and a few stipulation and rules. I rented mine from Anyavee Tubhaek Beach Resort, they arranged a bike for me from an outside shop. The deposit was 2000 Baht and rent was 350 Baht per day.

* I've been in Thailand last december/january. when in Ko Lanta, I rented a car through the hotel desk. The car was delivered and returned at the hotel, but for motorcycles it works the same way. The rental was only paid at the end and to the hotel. Yes, there's a lot of scammers in Thailand, usually people who come to you in the streets near touristic places offering something you didn't ask for. But just don't be naive and you do fine. Also, Ko Lanta has a relatively low incidence of scammers compared to places like Bangcoc or Phuket

Do I need a motorcycle license?

Wed, 20 Jun 2012 02:17:32 GMT

If you have absolutely no training and no experience handling a two-wheeled machine at home, what makes you think you’ll magically acquire those skills in a foreign country with an appalling road safety record?

Yes, you DO need a license.

Some travellers admit to ticking the “motorcycle” box on their International Driver’s permit (IDP) even though they don’t have a valid license at home. That might fool the traffic cop who pulls you over in Phnom Penh, but it won’t cut it with your travel insurance company in the very likely event you have an accident and are in hospital needing medical attention.

I have a license

But if you DO have a valid motorcycle license from home, the International Driver’s Permit alone will be accepted in: Bali, Indonesia, Laos, Thailand and Cambodia (since quite recently) but not in Vietnam. To ride anything over 50cc capacity legally in Vietnam you need a temporary Vietnamese driver’s license, which requires you to have a 3-month residency visa, not a tourist visa.

The fact that the shop rented you the bike without asking for your license doesn’t mean you don’t need one. They know you’re coming back (they have your passport), and it’s not their responsibility if you don’t check out local law.

I don't have a license

Many travellers report bluffing their way out of police checks with fake licenses or the IDP they fudged. If the police officer believes you it does not mean you are riding legally.

Poorly paid police officers are always looking for ways to extort bribes, and the ‘license check’ is an easy one for them. (The going rate in Bali is 50,000rp – about $5). They don't really care that your license is fake. But be aware genuine crackdowns on unlicensed riders are increasingly common. You won’t be able to bribe your way out of it and your bike could be confiscated (which will be expensive when you tell the people who rented it to you).

Injury from a motorcycle accident is one of the most common claims received by insurers. If it’s a bad one and you need medical evacuation, the cost could run to $100,000 or more. No valid license means you’re riding illegally and you’re very unlikely to be covered. Sorry, but you cannot insure against illegal activity. That includes not wearing a helmet where it’s compulsory (Cambodia, Thailand, Bali), and not riding under the influence of drink or drugs (everywhere). Don’t be fooled, the insurer will check if you have a valid license (forging that international permit isn’t looking so smart anymore).

What to do if something goes wrong on holiday

Mon, 06 Aug 2012 02:02:16 GMT

My bags haven’t arrived

Most airlines electronically tag all bags, so even if they get put on the wrong flight, they'll usually find their way to your hotel in 24hrs.

In most cases, once it does arrive, a courier service will deliver it from the arrival airport to you at your hotel with delivery charges paid for by the airline.

If your luggage doesn't appear on the carousel, don't leave the airport without a Passenger Irregularity Report (PIR). Find an airline representative, explain what has happened and ask them for one.

Also keep your Boarding Pass and Baggage Tags from the flight that caused the delay. These are essential in recovering your luggage and/or for making a TID claim later.

Once you have left the airport with your hand luggage and the clothes you've got on, think about buying some essential items to tide you over until your bags arrive: toothbrush, washing things, towels, essential clothing and other immediate necessities.

TID policies include an allowance to buy these where your bags are delayed more than 12 hours.

I’ve had something stolen

Unfortunately this is quite common, and can ruin your holiday.

To make a TID claim it's essential that you report it to the police within 24 hours and get a copy of the police report.

If it was in your accommodation or on public transport, get a report from the accommodation or transport provider in addition to the police report.

In some countries like the US and UK, police won’t release the report to you. Unfortunately they also won’t release it to us either.

If this happens, ask them if you can photograph the report with your phone, or at the very least make sure you get the:

* Report number
* Name of the police officer
* Name of police station

I’m in hospital

In the unfortunate event of a medical emergency, call or contact us as soon as possible.

This is particularly true if you are seriously ill or injured. Not only can we can make sure you get the best care available, we can also organise emergency and evacuation services.

If circumstances make this doing this immediately rather difficult, you or a travel companion should let us know ASAP what's happening.

To help you make a TID claim later, you'll need:

* Medical reports that identify what was wrong and what has been done.
* Receipts and bills, particularly for costs that you’ve already incurred.

My Passport has been stolen

This has serious implications as you can’t leave a country without it, never mind the disruption to your holiday.

First, go to the consulate to obtain a new one and keep your receipt. The address and contact of your nearest Australian consulate can be found under Useful Contacts in this app.

To help you make a TID claim later, you'll need:

* Receipts for costs to get you to the consulate including any additional accommodation costs.
* A police report or report from the consulate within 24 hours of you discovering the loss.

I’ve damaged something

If you accidentally damage something, don’t throw it away.

To help you make a TID claim later, try to bring it home as proof of what happened, or, if it’s something large, like a bag, where it’s impractical to bring it back with you, take pictures of the damage. If it can be repaired while you are away, keep a copy of the repair report.

If your item is damaged on a transport provider or in your accommodation, report it to them and get a copy of their written report.

But remember, try to take care of your things when you travel; we aren’t here to cover forgetfulness or carelessness, so if you accidentally leave your bag in the café after a long lunch, it’s not covered.

Arriving in Thailand - a guide to the first 24 hours

Fri, 16 Aug 2013 05:14:46 GMT

Arriving in Bangkok

Head to Immigration at Suvarnabhumi (pronounced “Suvarnaboom”), where counters are separated into “Foreigners” and “Thai nationals”; visas for those who need them can be acquired before reaching Immigration.

Be prepared for long queues at certain times, especially as flights from Europe arrive between about 14.00 and 17.00 daily. Smart people either have an APEC travel card or try to wangle their way through the “fast track” lanes located one hallway up from the main arrival hall.

Arrivals Hall

Suvarnabhumi Airport is a modern airport some 25-30km from the city, with all necessary amenities available, including money exchange (rates not too bad!).

Don Muang (the old airport brought back into service) is more limited, but snacks or SIM cards can easily be acquired.

Transport into Central Bangkok

From Suvarnabhumi:

Airport Express: Departs every 10-12 minutes.

Average time: City Line 25 - 30 minutes. Express Line 15 - 20 minutes

Single ticket: City Line Baht 35 - 50. Express Line Baht 100+.

Note: many stations are not well set up for people with heavy luggage. Taxis: around Baht 300-400 plus a Baht 50 airport surcharge, which can be avoided if you pick a taxi up at departure level.

From Don Muang:

Bus (Baht 29) from outside the domestic arrival hall to Mo Chit BTS station (25 - 45 minutes depending upon traffic), then a sky train to your destination.

Taxi at about Baht 250 - 300 subject to location of your destination.

Travel in Bangkok

Bangkok’s notorious traffic means the best way to travel is by skytrain (BTS) or underground (MRT); fares begin at Baht 15 - 20.

Taxis (metered) and Tuk Tuks (3 wheeled mini taxi-cabs with negotiable prices) frequent the main tourist areas.

Public buses cover the city but are not for the fainthearted.

Accommodation

Pre-booked accommodation always gets better rates. Many (younger) visitors stay in or near Khao San Road (hostels). Hotels to suit every budget start from Baht 1000+. Popular areas include along Sukhumvit Road between Sois (small roads) 1 and 26

Day one in Bangkok

Culture: head for Wat Arun or the Grand Palace; cruise the mighty Chao Phraya River

Shopping: if it’s the weekend, Chatujak market at Mo Chit (NW end of the BTS line). Otherwise, Pratunam market and surrounds, including Platinum fashion mall near Central World and the Erawan Shrine (all accessible from Chidlom BTS) or MBK shopping centre, plenty of varied mid-market shopping (Siam Square or National Stadium BTS).

Relaxation: a Thai head or body massage; dry or with oils

Food: anywhere and everywhere; rice or noodles - green curry (“gaeng kiew wan”) or fried noodles Thai style (“pad thai”)

Entertainment: “Asiatique” on the banks of the Chao Phraya River - a modern, sprawling entertainment and shopping complex; very busy at night. Or the myriad of bars and restaurants around (infamous) Patpong or Sukhumvit, between Sois 4 and 21 (most close around 2.00am, many run on until 4.00am).

Be Aware

Bangkok is relatively safe but, like any major city, it’s not wise to walk around flashing wads of cash or down dark alleys, alone late at night.

There’s high temptation to overdo the partying (cheap nights out); however, get caught with drugs and it might mean a prison term and Thai jails (and legal system) are both archaic!

Cost Guide

Take away or street-side Thai meal: Baht 30+

Food from a multi-national chain: Baht 120+

Meal in a “typical” restaurant: Baht 250 - 350 per head

Beer: from Baht 110 in a bar

Taxis: Baht 35 flag fall; most fares don’t exceed Baht 100

Bed in a hostel: Baht 400 - 600

Arriving in Phuket

The Phuket Airport is small but efficient. While it can become congested during peak holiday travel (December is notably busier), the airport does well in processing travellers. Visa lines may be long, but expect to spend no more than 20 minutes in line.

Arrivals Hall

ATMs and currency exchange locales are plentiful around Phuket, but charge steep withdrawal fees, so beware. The airport exchange bureaus are lined up in the arrival hall after the baggage claim, on the way to the exit.

Independent taxi drivers wait outside of the Arrivals Hall exit to solicit travellers. Politely decline, and instead head to the taxi and shuttle stands along the back wall. These are the “official” companies who should present you with a table of set prices- all reasonable.

Transport into Phuket

There are buses, shuttles, and taxis that service the airport. For an economical yet efficient mode of transportation, the minivan shuttles are an excellent option.

Minivans cost between 100-200 Baht per person. Pay at the desk, and keep your receipt as a ticket. Exit through the doors and to the left. Not much is clearly designated, but the companies are friendly and willing to help a lost traveler find the correct driver. Expect the minivan transport to take about 1 hour from airport to hotel.

Note, that most shuttles will make one stopover at a tourist information center. It seems annoying at first, but it's actually an excellent place to pick up pamphlets and book excursions. You won’t necessarily find a better deal yourself - the tourist industry Phuket is a well-oiled machine, and doing any recreational activity will have you filtered through a tour company anyway.

Accommodation

Pre-booking is recommended, For the most part, hotels are cheap and comfortable. Patong is where the most concentrated number of budget hotels are located. Kata and Karon Beaches house more mid-level to resort hotels.

Travel in Phuket

If you’re traveling from one beach to another, anticipate on spending 100-300 Baht on a taxi or Tuk Tuk. Most tourist areas are highly walkable.

Motorbikes are available to rent for around 500-600 Baht a day and is a good, cheap way to expand your options. Petrol stands are scattered throughout the town, set up like newspaper stands on the side of the road.

Excursions can be arranged with local tour companies, which take you kayaking, canoeing, or island-hopping. Trips include transportation to and from hotel, lunch, and any equipment. Day excursions average between 2000-3000 Baht.

Day one in Phuket

Roadside vendors are everywhere in Phuket, and most are safe (the more people, the more sanitary). Score some cheap pad thai or noodle soup (as you sweat into your bowl), then cool off with an ice cold watermelon juice. Thai iced coffee is a great morning alternative to your regular cup of Joe.

At peak daylight hours, when the sun shines down with fury, many local businesses provide sluggish service, at best. Instead, head to one of the many local, white sand beaches. Chairs and umbrellas are available to rent, usually for a few hundred Baht, and workers are available to serve up pad thai, fresh coconut pina coladas, and other libations on the beach. Or duck into a massage parlor - a standard oil massage lasts 90 minutes and costs 300-500 Baht. Foot massages are a bit shorter but a bit cheaper, and you get a neck and shoulder massage thrown in. For massages, leave a small tip.

Things to avoid

Getting into a little trouble at night is part of the reason to stay up in Phuket. Bars are open until wee hours of the morning, and the beach is available for hanging at all hours. Of course, exercise caution if you are traveling alone or find yourself far away from the center of activity, especially if you have been drinking.

Cost Guide

Pad Thai at a street stall: 40 Baht

Pad Thai at a nice restaurant: 100 Baht

Full meal at a restaurant: 250 Baht

Pint of local beer: 50 Baht

Taxi fare: 100-300 Baht

Motorbike Taxi: 50 Baht

Bed at a budget hotel: 800 Baht

Arriving in Chang Mai

Many holidaymakers catch the train from Bangkok, but Chiang Mai has a small but an amazingly convenient airport close to the Old City in the centre of Chiang Mai.

Arrivals Hall

There are a number of currency exchanges kiosks next to the taxi stand, all of which are legitimate and offer decent conversion rates.

Travel into Chang Mai

There’s a kiosk at the arrivals hall that books taxis to most areas for 120 baht (around $4.50).

The taxis are surprisingly modern, especially given the price tag for the ride.

Day one in Chang Mai

See, or make arrangements to see, Wat Phra That Doi Suthep. A Buddhist temple in the mountains about 15km away from the Old City, it offers breathtaking city views.

Go to the night bazaar. East of the old city, the night bazaar is where you can buy anything from clothes, paintings and swords and it has an amazing atmosphere.

Watch some Muay Thai. A number of stadiums dot Chiang Mai, with Thaphae and Loi Kroh stadiums being the most accessible to tourists.

Where to Stay

Thaphae is the main tourist area of Chiang Mai. It sits on the east part of the old city and features a number of western and Thai restaurants, bars, markets, places to stay and even a Muay Thai boxing stadium. If you’re after convenience then this is the place to stay.

A decent room costs around 600 baht and there are slightly more upscale hotels a few minutes east of the area for those who prefer the utmost comfort.

What To Do

One thing that’s in abundance in Chiang Mai is the food. A top quality Thai meal costs less than 80 baht. Kao Soi is known as the key dish of northern Thailand, and Aroon Rai restaurant is famous for it.

Be Aware

The city is quite safe, even for tourists. Loi Kroh Road is where a lot of the seedy bars and prostitutes are situated, so it’s best to be vigilant at night there. Like all other places, keep your wits about you and your stay in Chiang Mai should be fabulous.

Cost Guide

Budget hotel: 600 Baht

Beer: 80 Baht in a bar

Meal: Local restaurant 50 - 150 Baht per dish

Street food: 50 Baht