Highlights |
Escorted Package Includes
- Round trip flights LAX-Bangkok ▲
Other departure cities available. Click on date of departure for selection and prices
- Airline fuel surcharges
- Intra-flights
- 12 nights First Class accommodations
- All transfers
- 16 meals: 12 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 2 dinners
- Sightseeing per itinerary in a modern air-conditioned motor coach
- Services of an English-speaking tour manager from arrival Bangkok to departure Chiang Mai
- Services of a local English-speaking guide in Angkor Wat
- Host services on last night in Bangkok
- Entrance fees per itinerary
Special Features
- Boat Ride to Golden Triangle
- Maesa Elephant Camp
- Temple Complex at Angkor Wat
▲ Flights from the USA may arrive early on DAY 3. Sightseeing commences in the afternoon of Day 3
Also Available
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Itinerary |
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 DAY 1, Thursday - Depart USA
Depart the USA to Thailand. Your flight includes meals, drinks, and in-flight entertainment for your journey
DAY 2, Friday - Arrive in Bangkok
Arrive in Bangkok and transfer to your hotel
Overnight: Bangkok
DAY 3, Saturday - Bangkok
Morning at leisure in Bangkok. This afternoon, enjoy a half day city and temples tour, including visits to three of Bangkok's most unusual Buddhist temples: Wat Traimit, Wat Po and Wat Benchamabophit. Visit Wat Traimit (Temple of the Golden Buddha) boasting the world's largest solid-gold Buddha, believed to be cast over nine centuries ago. The seated statue is nearly 10 feet high, weighing 5.5 tons, and carved in the ancient Sukhothai style. Pass through Chinatown to visit Wat Po (Temple of the Reclining Buddha), the largest and oldest temple in Bangkok, before continuing to Wat Benchamabophit (The Marble Temple) to view the "Phra Buddhajinaraja," or Bronze Buddha
Optional: Siam Niramit with Dinner
Overnight: Bangkok
Meals: Breakfast
DAY 4, Sunday - Bangkok
Full day at leisure to explore Bangkok independently
Optional: Half Day Damnoen Saduak Floating Market (AM)
Half Day Grand Palace & Emerald Buddha (PM)
Calypso Cabaret at Asia Hotel
Overnight: Bangkok
Meals: Breakfast
DAY 5, Monday - Phitsanulok
Depart Bangkok for Ayuthaya, the historic capital of Siam. Here you will view the giant bronze statues at Wat Mongkol Borpitr, and continue to view Wat Yai Chai Mongkol, known as the "Great Temple of Auspicious Victory," built by King U-Thong in the late 14th century. Stop briefly at Wat Chai Watthanaram, before continuing to Lopburi and the massive stone sanctuary of Prang Sam Yod. Originally a Hindu temple in the early 14th century, the pagoda is famous for its three sandstone spires (prangs) signifying the sacred trinity of Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva. Proceed to Phitsanulok
Overnight: Phitsanulok
Meals: Breakfast
DAY 6, Tuesday - Phitsanulok, Chiang Rai
This morning, visit Wat Maha Dhat Phitsanulok with its grand Buddha statue, Phra Buddha Jinaraj. Following your visit, depart for Sukhothai, one of Thailand's earliest and most significant historical settlements, where you will visit Wat Maha Dhat Sukhothai. Continue to the historic city of Sri Satchanalai where you will find Wat Phra Si Ratana Maha Dhat. Standing on the site of the ancient Khmer fort "Chalieng," the temple features a massive Principal Buddha Image, ornately constructed in the Sukhothai style
Overnight: Chiang Rai
Meals: Breakfast
DAY 7, Wednesday - Chiang Rai
This morning visit the ancient fortified city of Chiang Saen, the former capital of the first Thai Lanna Kingdom, situated on the banks of the Mekong River. By long-tailed boat, visit the famed Golden Triangle where the borders of Thailand, Laos and Myanmar (Burma) converge. Enjoy the remainder of the afternoon at leisure
Overnight: Chiang Rai
Meals: Breakfast
DAY 8, Thursday - Chiang Rai
Morning at leisure. This afternoon, travel to the town of Mae Sai, the northern-most point of Thailand on the border of Myanmar, and visit a jade cutting factory and local market. Return to your hotel and enjoy the remainder of the evening at leisure
Optional: Half Day Boat Trip & Hilltribe Village (AM)
Overnight: Chiang Rai
Meals: Breakfast
DAY 9, Friday - Chiang Mai
This morning depart for Chiang Mai, the largest and foremost cultural city in Northern Thailand. En route, visit handicraft villages to view the spinning and weaving techniques of Thai Silk merchants, Bo-Sang paper umbrella makers, the high-fired stoneware, lacquerware, teakwood carvings, jewelry and silverware of the Celadon Kilns, and a local Jade and Gem Factory. Afternoon at leisure in Chiang Mai
Optional: Kantoke Dinner
Overnight: Chiang Mai
Meals: Breakfast
DAY 10, Saturday - Chiang Mai
Early today travel northwest along the Mae Sa Valley, with its scenic botanical gardens and tiered waterfalls, to visit the Maesa Elephant Training Camp. See the elephants bathing in the running streams or demonstrating their daily feats of skill and strength in a show with music and dance, a soccer match, or an abstract painting demonstration. Even more impressive is the camp's goal to protect the endangered Thai Elephant by controlled breeding, a program which has flourished since 1995. At an additional charge, you may choose to ride on the back of a Thai Elephant, making for a truly memorable experience. Afterwards, visit Sai Nam Phung Orchid Nursery and Butterfly Farm, home to more than 50 species of mountain orchid. Afternoon at leisure. Tonight, enjoy a farewell dinner at your hotel
Overnight: Chiang Mai
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
DAY 11, Sunday - Chiang Mai, Siem Reap
Morning at leisure. This afternoon, transfer to the airport for your flight to Bangkok. Upon arrival in Bangkok, connect to your flight from Bangkok to Siem Reap. Arrive in Siem Reap and transfer to your hotel
Optional: Half Day Chiang Mai City & Temple (AM)
Overnight: Siem Reap
Meals: Breakfast
DAY 12, Monday - Siem Reap
This morning, enjoy sunrise at Angkor Wat, a temple dedicated to the Hindu god Vishnu. World-famous for its beauty and splendor, Angkor Wat features the longest continuous bas-relief in the world, which runs along the outer gallery walls and narrates stories from Hindu mythology. Proceed to other temple complex monuments including Thommanon, Chau Say Tevoda and Ta Keo. Of special note is Ta Prohm, where most of the jungle has not been cleared from the monuments, leaving the site as it would have appeared when European explorers first stumbled upon it. Continue to the Buddhist Banteay Kdei Temple, Srah Srang, Preah Khan, and the five towers of Prasat Kravan
Overnight: Siem Reap
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 13, Tuesday - Siem Reap, Bangkok
This morning visit the fortified city of Angkor Thom where you will see the Terrace of the Elephants, Terrace of the Leper Kings, Baphuon, Phimeanakas, and the Royal Enclosure. Continue to the highlight of Angkor Thom, the mysterious Bayon Temple, replete with beautifully preserved bas-reliefs and giant stone faces smiling enigmatically. Afterwards, enjoy a boat excursion on the Tonle Sap, or Great Lake, located in the heart of Cambodia. It boasts a rich and diverse ecosystem as well as floating fishing villages. Late this afternoon, transfer to the airport for your flight to Bangkok. Arrive and transfer to your hotel
Overnight: Bangkok
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
DAY 14, Wednesday - Depart for USA
Transfer to the airport for your departure flight
Meals: Breakfast
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Optionals |
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Book your Optional Tours before you travel and see more, save time, save money, and protect your investment. Tours purchased while traveling cost at least 10% more! Tours often sell out - avoid disappointment! Save your cash - many countries do not accept credit cards. Travel insurance only covers services purchased prior to departure.
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| Siam Niramit with dinner |
Day #3 |
01 Nov 2009 - 30 Jun 2010 $75
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Before this evening's stunning performance, dine at the Sawasdee Restaurant. Here you can savor delicious Thai cuisine while also appreciating its elegant presentation and the establishment's charming ambiance.
Then prepare to be dazzled by one of the world's most astounding theatrical productions, the Journey to the Enchanted Kingdom of Siam. Boasting over 150 performers, this $40 million production delves into Siam's history and culture, featuring scenes taken from the North's Ancient Kingdom of Lanna, the famed sea traders of the South, Khmer heritage, and the Central Plains traditions. Then in a journey reminiscent of Dante, venture into the heart of Thai mythology with scenes of Fiery Hell, Mystical Himapaan Forest, and Blissful Heaven. Lastly, enjoy a montage of joyous celebrations honoring the Buddhist tradition of merit-making festivals.
Pick-up and drop-off from hotel. Details to be advised locally.
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| Damnoen Saduak Floating Market |
Day #4 |
01 Nov 2009 - 30 Jun 2010 $45
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Depart early this morning to visit the colorful floating market of Damnoen Saduak. On this exciting tour, you'll witness boat-to-boat bartering as hundreds of agricultural vendors float side-by-side in their small rowing boats: buying, selling, or exchanging a variety of farmed goods. The market is at its best in the early morning before the crowds arrive and heat of the day builds up. You may bargain if you'd like, but don't expect to get the price down more than a few baht.
Departs at 7:00 a.m. Please arrive 15 minutes prior to departure time. Pick-up and drop-off at the hotel.
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| Grand Palace & Emerald Buddha |
Day #4 |
01 Nov 2009 - 30 Jun 2010 $45
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Enjoy an exciting tour of Bangkok's Grand Palace, Thailand's finest and most appealing example of an ancient Siamese court. For centuries, the Grand Palace was used as a royal residence for the Kings of Bangkok and their administrative parties. Here, you'll tour the beautiful courtyards and various palaces within the complex, including the Funeral Palace, the Reception Palace, the Throne Hall, the Coronation Hall, the Royal Guest House, and the Emerald Buddha Temple.
Departs at 1:30 p.m. Please arrive 15 minutes prior to departure time. Pick-up and drop-off at the hotel.
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| Calypso Cabaret at Asia Hotel |
Day #4 |
01 Nov 2009 - 30 Jun 2010 $60
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This evening, experience the first transvestite impersonation show in Bangkok. Transfer from your hotel to the Asia Hotel, home of the famous Calypso Cabaret. Upon arrival, enjoy a buffet-style dinner and show as over 50 "female" performers act-out various theatrical routines. The dinner and show takes place in a non-smoking, air-conditioned theater, with each performance running about 1 hour and 15 minutes (D).
Departs at 7:00 p.m. Please arrive 15 minutes prior to departure time. Pick-up and drop-off at the hotel. *The program contains material that may be unsuitable for children.
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| Boat Trip & Hilltribe Village |
Day #8 |
01 Nov 2009 - 30 Jun 2010 $50
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This morning, enjoy an exciting tour into the rural scapes of Chiang Rai. Board a long-tail boat and sail the Kok River to the water shed at Pa Kaew Village. On arrival, visit the Akha Village and discover the daily way of life of the Akha tribesmen and women.
Departs at 8:00 a.m. Please arrive 15 minutes prior to departure time. Pick-up and drop-off at the hotel.
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| Kantoke Dinner |
Day #9 |
01 Nov 2009 - 30 Jun 2010 $32
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This evening, delight in a Kantoke dinner with traditional dances from Northern Thailand. As guests of this unique event, you will be seated on the floor, as is customary, and enjoy acted scenes depicting the local culture as you dine. After dinner, villagers from various hilltribes will perform an exciting array of cultural dances, including the Fon Lep (Fingers Dance), Sword Dance, Fon Thien (Candle Dance), and Ramwong, in which all guests are invited to participate (D).
Departs at 7:00 p.m. Please arrive 15 minutes prior to departure time. Pick-up and drop-off at the hotel.
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| Chiang Mai City & Temple |
Day #11 |
01 Nov 2009 - 30 Jun 2010 $42
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On this half day Doi Suthep and temples tour, you will visit the most interesting temples in Chiang Mai. Visit Wat Phra Singh with its famous Buddha image, and Wat Suan Dok, where the remains of the Chiang Mai Royal family are enshrined. The tour continues to visit Wat Phrathad Doi Suthep, erected in 1384 A.D. Located 3500 feet above sea level, Wat Phrathad Doi Suthep is Northern Thailand's most sacred temple, containing a holy relic of Lord Buddha and a copper-plated chedi topped by a tiered-gold parasol in its interior cloister. Equally impressive is the mythological Naga (Dragon-headed serpent) staircase, consisting of 290 steps leading up to the temple grounds.
Departs at 8:30 a.m. Please arrive 15 minutes prior to departure time. Pick-up and drop-off at the hotel.
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Book your Optional Tours before you travel and see more, save time, save money, and protect your investment. Tours purchased while traveling cost at least 10% more! Tours often sell out - avoid disappointment! Save your cash - many countries do not accept credit cards. Travel insurance only covers services purchased prior to departure.
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Rates & Hotels |
Step 1: Select Your Featured Hotels Step 2: Click a Date to Book Online
OR: Click here to create your own flexible vacation
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| Dates & Prices |
Land Only |
Air & Land |
| Dates & Prices |
Land Only |
| Dates & Prices |
Air & Land |
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This package is currently unavailable. Please check back later or call Gate 1 Travel for more information.
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| Create Your Own Flexible Vacation |
*Not Included:
Airport taxes & fees, optional tours, and gratuities.
Additional Information:
Land only price does not include arrival/departure transfers, but does include flights Chiang Mai-Bangkok-Siem Reap-Bangkok.
Entry Requirements:
US citizens require a passport valid for six months beyond travel dates.
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| Although most of the planning and preparation is taken care of for you, there are still a few things you should know and some details you should take care of to ensure your comfort, safety and peace of mind. Please review the following information before your departure to ensure that any surprises along the way will only be pleasant ones. | |
| Passports and Visas | It is each traveler's responsibility to have a passport valid for at least 6 months from the date of departure and a visa if required. Please check the information at www.gate1travel.com/visas.aspx for the specific country/region you are visiting for more details. Passengers who are not U.S. citizens must check with the respective consulate or a visa agency to determine what personal identification is required. Passport applications are available at most U.S. Post Offices, as well as at regional Passport Agencies.
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Entry Requirements:
US citizens require a passport valid for six months beyond travel dates.
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| Trip Preparation | A little pre-planning can make your trip go a lot smoother. Several weeks before your trip, make a list of what you’ll need to take with you. Make sure your personal documents (passports, visas) are in order and that you have enough prescription medications to last through the trip.
| | Health Information | Check with your personal physician for the latest overseas travel health information, or contact the Center for Disease Control’s travelers’ hotline at 404-332-4559, web site www.cdc.gov.
| Cambodia - No inoculations are required. However, some inoculations are recommended. Please consult your physician before traveling to Cambodia.
| | Climate & Clothing | Cambodia - Cambodia has three seasons. The dry season is from November to March. The hot season is from March to June. The wet season is from July to October. Comfortable walking shoes, clothes you can layer and an all-weather jacket are recommended. A hat and sunscreen lotion are especially recommended during the hot season. Some religious sites may require modest dress to enter (no shorts, short skirts, or sleeveless tops).
Cambodia Average Temperatures: http://www.gate1travel.com/weather/asia-pacific/default.aspx#southeast-asia-weather
| Thailand - The rainy season is June through October. Bring comfortable walking shoes, lightweight clothes you can layer and a waterproof windbreaker. Some religious sites may require modest dress to enter (no shorts, short skirts, or sleeveless tops).
Thailand Average Temperatures: http://www.gate1travel.com/weather/asia-pacific/default.aspx#thailand-weather
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| E-tickets | Most airlines now require that we provide e-tickets in place of paper tickets. At check-in, you should be ready to provide your e-ticket itinerary and ticket numbers, as well as identification (valid passport) to the agent. In a few cases where e-tickets cannot be issued, you will receive your tickets in a paper form.
| | Airline Flights | Please check in at least three hours prior to the scheduled departure time to allow for security steps. Passengers connecting from another point within the USA may check their luggage through to their final destination, and although problems with lost luggage have been minimal, it is a possibility. Certain carriers do not allow baggage “interlining,” and luggage must be checked separately for each flight. If you are connecting from a domestic flight which is delayed for any reason, causing you to miss your international flight, you must ask the airline for assistance in getting you to your destination. Since all airline tickets are issued on special fares which carry restrictions and penalties if changed, you must have the airlines responsible make alternate arrangements on your behalf as Gate 1 has no authority or control over airline activities and policies. Do not leave the airline check-in desk until an alternative itinerary has been confirmed for you.
Flight schedule changes are common and may occur anytime until departure. Therefore it is the responsibility of each passenger to reconfirm their flights 72 hours prior to departure for all flights.
| | Airline Luggage Restrictions | Most international airlines are consistent with regard to the number and weight of the pieces you may check and bring onboard. Domestic carriers however, typically on small aircraft, differ. Therefore, we suggest that you check in advance if you are concerned about size or weight restrictions. Many airlines have begun to apply charges for checked bags. Please contact your airline or refer to its website for detailed information regarding your airline's checked baggage policies. Airline policies vary and may change at any time. Gate 1 Travel is not responsible for any excess luggage/ weight charges levied by an airline.
| | Airline Seats | Airline seats are confirmed whenever possible. Some airlines and/or fare types do not allow for pre-seating and require this be done at airport check-in only. Even when seats are pre-assigned however, we recommend that you contact the carrier one to two weeks prior to departure to reconfirm your seats. In many cases there are equipment changes after your initial booking which can cause airplane seating reconfiguration.
| | Airline Tickets | Most airline tickets are issued using special fares which cannot be changed or canceled without incurring additional cost. Should you lose or misplace your tickets while traveling, you should immediately notify the airline. In most cases they will have you complete a Lost Ticket Indemnity Form, and for a fee, issue replacement tickets.
| | Code-share Flights | Many airlines participate in alliances and special agreements with other airlines which permit passengers to travel from one point to another using more than one carrier. While your ticket may indicate that you are flying with one carrier (eg: Delta), you may find that you are actually seated in a plane belonging to another carrier (eg: Alitalia). Please review your airline itinerary carefully to determine which airline you should go to for check-in; if your flight is operated by a carrier other than the primary airline indicated on the itinerary, your itinerary will state "Flight Operated by (Airline)." If you have any concerns regarding which airline to check-in with, you may contact the airline directly or Gate 1 Travel for clarification.
| | Luggage | All Gate 1 tour packages allow one piece of luggage per person, plus carry-on bag. Additional baggage will be subject to airline handling charges of up to $100 per piece. As Gate 1 will not be responsible for loss or damage to luggage and personal belongings, you MUST report any loss or damage immediately at the time of the incident and obtain a written report from the local authority for submission to your insurance provider. If your luggage is lost or damaged by the airlines, a baggage claim form MUST be filed with the carrier before leaving the airport. See www.gate1travel.com/luggage.aspx for Important Baggage Information for U.S. Travelers.
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| Arrival Procedures | Upon arrival, please complete immigration formalities and claim your luggage. If your program includes airport arrival transfers, check your voucher for specific instructions, as they vary with every destination. In most cases, you will be met after passing through Customs by the local representative who will be holding a Gate 1 Travel sign and/or a sign with your name on it. In some instances you will be instructed to walk a short distance to a transportation counter. The company's name and location will be printed on your voucher. If for any reason you do not connect with the Gate 1 transfer personnel, go to the Tourist Information Desk and ask them to page the Gate 1 Travel representative or phone the number on your voucher.
| | What To Do When Your Flight Is Delayed | Airlines do not share flight manifest information. Therefore, the only way we may learn of a delay or schedule change while you are traveling is from you, the traveler. The sooner you are able to contact one of our offices, overseas or in the USA, the better we can respond. Gate 1 Travel is only able to guarantee pre-reserved arrival transfers for up to one hour from the scheduled time, no matter the cause. In case you are delayed for any reason, and are unable to follow the instructions on your voucher, please make independent transfer arrangements and retain your receipts. Unused tour services, including transfers and hotel nights are not refundable. Upon your return home you will need to contact your airline and/or insurance carrier to investigate the possibility of reimbursement for any unused tour services.
| | Departure Procedures | If your program includes departure transfers, instructions will be stated on your voucher or provided locally.
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| Transfers | Due to local traffic and other extenuating circumstances, we ask that you allow 30 minutes from your scheduled transfer time for our representative to arrive. This includes hotel, airport and cruise transfers. Such possible delays are taken into consideration in scheduling transfers and you should therefore have no concerns about arriving late for your tour, flight or cruise. For transfers from a hotel, let the hotel reception desk or concierge know that you are waiting for a transfer. In the case of a missed transfer, reimbursement for your out-of-pocket expenses will be considered provided you obtain a written statement from the hotel's front desk verifying the length of time you waited, and the time you left the hotel, and a receipt for your transportation with time and date.
Escorted tour programs include transfers, providing you have purchased airfare from Gate 1 to arrive and depart on the scheduled tour dates. If you are traveling independently, you may purchase the transfers from Gate 1 or contract your own method of transportation to the hotel or cruise ship. The cost of a transfer will generally be more expensive than hiring a taxi as the pre-arranged transfer necessarily includes round trip service, or a 'dead-leg'. Additionally the driver may have to wait at the collection point for up to an hour.
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| Hotels | | Gate 1 Travel has carefully selected each hotel based on overall quality, location, price, food, service, and cleanliness. All rooms are standard rooms with two single beds and private facilities, unless you have specifically requested and paid for an upgrade. Room selection is strictly at the discretion of the hotel management. We reserve the right to make hotel substitutions with those of equal standard. | | Hotel Check-in/ Check-out | | Check-in time is usually 4pm or later. Check-out time is 12 noon. If you will be arriving early in the day or departing in the evening, hotels will usually allow you to store your luggage in their luggage room. Ask at the front desk if the hotel can check you in earlier, or let you stay later. |
| Eco & Sustainable Tourism | We support global efforts to create a more eco-friendly world, intolerant of any forms of cruelty, abuse and intentional environmental destruction. To that end we ask that our clients maintain a watchful eye as they travel, and report any abuses they may encounter. One of the many benefits of tourism is the shared cultural knowledge and ultimate elimination of negative behavior through education. We rely on your good feedback to enable this element of symbiosis. As you travel to and learn about foreign cultures, we ask first and foremost that you practice tolerance and respect for local customs.
| | Land Only Passengers (Escorted Tours) | Your tour manager will contact you after your arrival at your hotel. Passengers who have not purchased arrival transfers from Gate 1 Travel should proceed directly to the hotel for checkin. The details of the hotel can be found in your documents.
| | Shopping | Shopping in a foreign country can be a wonderful experience. We do include a few stops at recommended popular shops on every escorted tour, intended to enhance your cultural experience. As you explore the country independently, you may find fantastic, one-of-a-kind merchandise. You may get terrific bargains. However, we advise you to exercise care and common sense when making any purchase. Always get a formal receipt. And remember that, just like in this country, if a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is!
| Cambodia - Local handicrafts, silks, and replicas of ancient statues and artifacts are among the most popular items.
| Thailand - Among the most sought after goods are Thai silk and cotton embroidery, pearls, objects inlaid with precious and semi-precious stones, and leather wares.
| | Currency | We suggest getting a small amount of currency for the first country you're visiting before you leave the U.S. It is a good idea to carry a chart with you to help you convert U.S. dollars to the local currency. It's also a good idea not to carry too much money. Many countries have ATM machines that accept most U.S. ATM cards, but be sure you know your ATM password in numbers-the keypads on foreign ATMs don't always have letters. ATM machines will only dispense cash in local currency. Check with respective consulates to learn current currency allowances and requirements. Use your credit card whenever possible. Should you decide to carry cash or travelers checks, exchange them at banks where the rate is more favorable than at hotels or exchange bureaus.
| Cambodia - The Cambodian Riel is the local currency. In tourist areas U.S. currency in widely accepted in cities. It is best to carry both Cambodian and U.S. currency in small denominations. Credit cards can generally be used at hotels, but smaller business may not accept them or may charge a service fee for their use.
| Thailand - The Thai Baht is the currency of Thailand.
| | Purchasing Tours Locally |
On escorted tours, the guides will generally sell optional tours to passengers who have not pre-purchased them.
Payment can be made by cash or credit card, unless otherwise noted below.
This does not apply to Independent packages. Please see Gate 1 Terms & Conditions for more information.
http://www.gate1travel.com/terms.aspx#optional
| | Credit Cards | While credit cards are accepted in most destinations, it is advisable to carry local currency. Inform your credit card company that you are traveling to avoid your card being blocked for security reasons.
| | Gratuities | This is a matter of personal discretion. You may use the following as a guideline:
- Tour escort (Coordinator; may or may not act as a guide):
$6 or $7 per person per day - *Driver (Provides chauffeur services and limited assistance with luggage):
$3 per person per day - *Local Guide (Offers in-depth information at specific locations. There may be one or many guides along a tour program):
$2 per person per half day of sightseeing (2-3 hours) - *River Cruises:
$6 or $7 per person per day as indicated by each cruise line (see details regarding European River Cruises) - *Private car tours(small groups of 2-14 passengers):
$12 to $16 per person per day for each day of sightseeing - *Hotel Porter:
$1 per bag per person - *Wait staff:
$1.50 per person (lunch or dinner) - *Chamber maid:
$1 per person per day
Tipping is considered by many locals to be a part of their normal remuneration and some may approach you for additional "compensation." There is no need to be intimidated by the request, nor should you feel pressured to pay more than recommended. If you become uncomfortable by any behavior you encounter, please advise your tour escort or phone our local office. Numbers have been provided in your documents for your convenience.
| Cambodia - While not considered necessary, tips for quality service are appreciated, especially in places that cater to tourists.
| Thailand - Gratuities are not standard practice.
| | Your Safety is Very Important | Every effort has been taken by Gate 1 Travel to ensure your safety. However, it is important that you do not allow your common sense to take a vacation while you're on your trip. Be aware of potentially dangerous places and situations as you would at home. Avoid wearing expensive jewelry and carry your valuables concealed in inside pockets or hidden pouches. Don't put all your valuables (money, credit cards, passports, etc.) in the same place. (In case that one wallet is stolen, you should have other valuables and identification in another safe place.) Don't leave valuables laying loose in your room-use the hotel safe. Keep copies of your passports, credit card numbers and travelers checks numbers in the hotel safe. If you've purchased an escorted tour program, your travel documents will include telephone numbers of local Gate 1 Travel representatives who will do their utmost to assist you in the event of an emergency. The numbers are printed on your Gate 1 Travel vouchers. Please copy the numbers. Once you relinquish the voucher, you will not have this information. Passengers traveling independently should employ the services of hotel concierges and local authorities.
| | Local Emergency Phone Numbers | Cambodia
| Thailand
- Ambulance/Police: 191
- Fire: 199
| | Languages | Cambodia - Khmer is the local language. English is generally spoken in tourist areas.
| Thailand - Thai is the local language. English is generally spoken in tourist areas.
| | Electricity | Please note: The U.S. uses 120 volts and you can purchase a converter and transformer at most hardware stores for your 120V appliances.
| Cambodia - The voltage used is 230 volts.
| Thailand - The voltage used is 220 volts.
| | Code of Conduct | Cambodia - While men often shake hands in greeting, woman tend to use the more traditional Som Pas greeting, with palms pressed together at chest level followed by a slight bow. Simple, modest clothing is appropriate. Footwear should be removed upon entering a Buddhist temple. Statues of the Buddha are considered sacred and should not be touched.
| Thailand - In Thailand, there is a very sharp distinction between what is appropriate in public life versus private life. Expressing anger or physical affection in public is a faux pas. The Royal Family is treated with utmost respect and reverence, so if you are handling any object bearing the image of the King, treat it with respect. Casual dress is generally appropriate.
| | Holidays - Cambodia |
| Holidays 2008 |
| Jan 1 |
International New Year Day |
| Jan 7 |
Victory Day Over Genocide |
Feb 21 |
Meak Bochea Day |
Mar 8 |
International Women's Day |
Apr 13 |
Khmer New Year's Day (3 day celebration) |
May 1 |
International Labor Day |
May 13 |
King's Birthday (3 day celebration) |
May 19 |
Visak Bochea Day (Buddha's Birthday) |
May 23 |
Royal Plowing Day |
Jun 18 |
King's Mother's Birthday |
Sep 24 |
Constitutional Day |
Sep 28 - 30 |
Ancestors' Day |
Oct 29 |
King's Coronation Day |
Oct 31 |
King's Father's Birthday |
Nov 9 |
Independence Day |
Nov 23 - 25 |
Water Festival |
Dec 10 |
International Human Rights Day |
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| Holidays - Vietnam |
| Holidays 2009 |
| Jan 1 |
New Year's Day |
| Apr 6 |
Chakri Memorial Day |
Apr 13 - 15 |
Thai New Year |
May 1 |
Labor Day |
May 5 |
Coronation Day |
May 9 |
Vesak |
July 1 |
Mid-year Day |
Aug 12 |
Mother's Day |
Oct 23 |
Chulalongkorn Day |
Dec 5 |
National Day |
Dec 10 |
Constitution Day |
Dec 31 |
New Year's Eve |
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| Food | Cambodia - While it is generally safe to eat fully cooked meats and vegetables, care should be taken to avoid undercooked meat and uncooked fruits and vegetables. Because tap water is not potable, visitors should only drink bottled water or water that has been boiled and filtered. Avoid ice, as it is usually made from tap water.
| Thailand - While it is generally safe to eat fully cooked meats and vegetables, care should be taken to avoid undercooked meat and uncooked fruits and vegetables. Because tap water is not potable, visitors should only drink bottled water or water that has been boiled and filtered. Avoid ice, as it is usually made from tap water.
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