Highlights |
Escorted Package Includes
- Round trip flights LAX-Bangkok-LAX
Other departure cities available. Click on date of departure for selection and prices
- Airline fuel surcharges
- Intra-flights
- 14 nights First Class accommodations
- All transfers
- 18 meals: 14 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 2 dinners
- Sightseeing per itinerary in a modern air-conditioned motor coach
- Airport Assistance in Bangkok
- Services of an English-speaking tour manager (Day 4-14)
- Services of a local English-speaking guide in Angkor Wat
- Host services on last night in Bangkok
- Entrance fees per itinerary
Special Features
- Doi Suthep
- Dinner at Chiang Mai Private Home
- Sukhothai Historical Park
- Temple Complex at Angkor Wat
Also Available
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Itinerary |
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 DAY 1, Tuesday - Depart the USA
Depart the USA for Thailand. Depart the USA for Thailand. Your flight includes meals, drinks, and in-flight entertainment for your journey
DAY 2, Wednesday - Arrive in Bangkok
Arrive in Bangkok and transfer to your hotel
Overnight: Bangkok
DAY 3, Thursday - Full Day in Bangkok
Spend a full day at leisure to explore Bangkok independently
Overnight: Bangkok
Meals: Breakfast
DAY 4, Friday - Flight to Chiang Mai, City & Temples Tour
This morning depart Bangkok for your flight to Chiang Mai. This afternoon, enjoy a half day city and temples tour. 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. Later, visit a jade cutting factory and local market
Optional: Traditional Thai Massage
Optional: Kantoke Dinner & Show
Overnight: Chiang Mai
Meals: Breakfast
DAY 5, Saturday - Full Day in Chiang Mai, Dinner at Private Home
Enjoy the morning at leisure to explore Chiang Mai independently. Chiang Mai is a city known for culture, nature and handicrafts. This afternoon, visit the handicraft street of Sankampang for on site demonstrations of how the silk, lacquer, silver, wood and bronze wares are made. In the evening, enjoy the authentic experience of dinner in a local Chiang Mai family home. Enjoy a tour of the home, open conversation of how a typical Thai family lives all while enjoying the savors of home cooked Thai cuisine
Optional: Half Day Mae Sa Elephant Camp with lunch (PM)
Overnight: Chiang Mai
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
DAY 6, Sunday - Sightseeing en route to Chiang Rai
After breakfast, depart Chiang Mai for Chiang Rai, the Northern most city of Thailand. Travel through the area known as the Golden Triangle, where Thailand, Laos and Myanmar borders meet and are divided by the famous Mekong and Sob Ruak Rivers. On the way, stop at the infamous Hall of Opium. This tour combines a museum of the history of opium and the impact of illegal drugs, with an information center for research and extension education on opium, opiates and other narcotics
Optional: Mekong River Cruise (PM)
Overnight: Chiang Rai
Meals: Breakfast
DAY 7, Monday - Mae Sai Border Town visit
Morning at leisure. This afternoon, travel to the town of Mae Sai, the northern-most point of Thailand on the border of Myanmar. Here you will have the opportunity to cross over into Myanmar (Visa fee into Myanmar, at own expense). Later, visit the night bazaar for an evening of shopping the local wares of Chiang Rai
Optional: Half Day Mae Salong Hill Tribe (AM)
Overnight: Chiang Rai
Meals: Breakfast
DAY 8, Tuesday - Travel to Sukhothai
Depart Chiang Rai for your journey to Sukhothai, Thailand's first Capital. On the way, stop to stretch and relax by the tranquil Payao Lake, the second largest inland fresh water lake in Thailand. Before reaching your hotel, visit Wat Pra That Suton Mongkol Kiri. See the reclining Buddha, visit the Wooden Museum, which houses antiques and documents of Thai history. You will also have an opportunity to see a working crematorium
Overnight: Sukhothai
Meals: Breakfast
DAY 9, Wednesday - Sukhothai Historical Park
Sukhothai's golden era was from the 13th to the 14th century, the art and architecture produced in this period are considered to be some of the best. Sukhothai today consists of the old and new towns. The old town of Sukhothai consists mainly of the large Historical Park, where most of the remains of the original city can be seen. This morning you will have the opportunity to tour this historical site and marvel at the ancient Buddha figures, palace buildings and ruined temples
Overnight: Sukhothai
Meals: Breakfast
DAY 10, Thursday - Travel to Ayutthaya
Depart for Ayutthaya, the second and most prosperous capital of Thailand, from 1350-1767. On the way, stop at Ta Soong Temple, which translates to “Crystal Palace”. The entire palace is decorated with small pieces of cut glass which make it look like it was etched out of crystal. Upon arrival in Ayutthaya, enjoy sunset at Chai Wattanaram Temple. This temple was built by King Prasat Tong, who was actually a commoner who overthrew the previous king and took his throne. This is a lovely place to take in the nature and peace of Siam
Overnight: Ayutthaya
Meals: Breakfast
DAY 11, Friday - Travel to Bangkok
After breakfast, depart Ayutthaya for the Summer Palace of King Rama V. The structures on the grounds of the palace, represent a variety of architectural styles, set in a large park, around ponds and waterways. The only royal residence open to the public is the Chinese-style Wehat Chamroon Palace, constructed entirely of materials imported from China
Optional: Chao Phraya River Cruise with lunch
Overnight: Bangkok
Meals: Breakfast
DAY 12, Saturday - Full Day in Bangkok
Enjoy the morning at leisure to explore Bangkok independently. Not only the capital and largest city in Thailand, Bangkok itself accounts for nearly half of the country's economic output. This concentration of wealth and culture attracts people from around the world, creating a vibrant and cosmopolitan metropolis. This afternoon, visit a local tailor where you can have clothing made to order
Optional: Half Day Grand Palace & Emerald Buddha(AM)
Optional: Siam Niramit Show & Dinner(PM)
Overnight: Bangkok
Meals: Breakfast
DAY 13, Sunday - Bangkok, Siem Reap
This morning, transfer to the airport for your flight to Siem Reap. Arrive in Siem Reap and transfer to your hotel. Enjoy the rest of the afternoon to explore Siem Reap on your own
Overnight: Siem Reap
Meals: Breakfast
DAY 14, 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 15, 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 16, 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 may cost an extra 10% or even 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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| Traditional Thai Massage |
Day #4 |
01 Sep 2009 - 31 Dec 2011 $29
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Travelling to Thailand will never be complete without having a traditional Thai Massage. Different than other kinds of massage, your masseuse will stretch, bend, and contort your body into various positions. Known to quickly ease the stress of muscle tension and aides in curing minor illness. You will receive a set of personal cotton clothing with GATE 1 logo to wear during the massage.
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| Kantoke Dinner & Show |
Day #4 |
01 Sep 2009 - 31 Dec 2011 $25
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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.
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| Half Day Mae Sa Elephant Camp with lunch |
Day #5 |
01 Sep 2009 - 31 Dec 2011 $25
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Travel northwest along the Mae Sa Valley, with its scenic botanical gardens and ten-tiered waterfalls, to visit the Mae Sa Elephant Training Camp. Here you will see 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 it was established in 1995. At an additional charge, you may choose to ride on the back of a Thai Elephant, making for a truly memorable experience. Enjoy time at leisure to walk the exhibition greenhouses, gardens and nature trails.
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| Mekong River Cruise |
Day #6 |
01 Sep 2009 - 31 Dec 2011 $19
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The Mekong River, is 2,703 miles long and originates from the Tibetan Plateau. It runs through China, Burma, Thailand, Laos, Cambodia and Vietnam. The section of the river at this Golden Triangle flows through the spot where three countries Myanmar (Burma), Laos and Thailand meet. The afternoon cruise will board you on a motor boat and cruise slowly along the banks of these three countries, near enough to really shout "Hello" to those villagers who are living here along the banks. The timing is quite perfect as local folks who live along the river come to the river at this time to bathe. Later today, continue to Don Sao, a small island of Laos. Enjoy shopping and leisure time in Laos. Continue back to Thailand.
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| Half Day Mae Salong Hill Tribe with lunch |
Day #7 |
01 Sep 2009 - 31 Dec 2010 $19
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Your tour begins with hour drive from Chiangrai City. Upon arrival, change transportation to the local Thai Combi which will take you up to the Doi Mae Salong to visit the hill that is still inhabited with the hill tribes. See the unique way of life & culture of the various tribes that is still maintained today. As you ascend the hill, you will have the opportunity to visit several different hill tribes before arriving to the peak. Here lunch will be served at a restaurant surrounded by remarkable scenery.
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| Chao Phraya River Cruise with lunch |
Day #11 |
01 Jun 2009 - 31 Dec 2010 $37
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A unique way to travel to your next destination of Bangkok. Instead of transfering on your motorcoach, make the most out of this small journey and travel slowly and quietly down the Chao Phraya River. International buffet lunch and afternoon tea will be served.
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| Half Day Grand Palace & Emerald Buddha |
Day #12 |
01 Sep 2009 - 31 Dec 2011 $29
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Half day morning tour of Wat Phra Kaew, the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, and the adjoining Grand Palace. Together they form what is perhaps the greatest spectacle for the visitor to Bangkok. Wat Phra Kaew consists of over 100 brightly colored building, golden spires and glittering mosaics, and dates back to 1782, when Bangkok was founded. From Wat Phra Kaew head to the Grand Palace. Despite the proximity of the two, there's a distinct contrast in style between the very Thai Wat Phra Kaew and the more European-inspired designs of the Grand Palace. The Grand Palace is used only for occasional ceremonial purposes and is no longer the royal residence.
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| Siam Niramit Show & Dinner |
Day #12 |
01 Sep 2009 - 31 Dec 2011 $49
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Buffet dinner at the Siam Niramit Restaurant before this evening's stunning performance of 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.
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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 may cost an extra 10% or even 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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*Not Included:
Airport taxes & fees, optional tours, and gratuities.
Additional Information:
Land only price does not include arrival/departure transfers, but does include flights Bangkok-Chiang Mai and 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 will 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. We suggest that you make photocopies of passports, visas, and any other important travel documents and pack them separately from the originals. Pack a list of medications including dosage and generic names. If you lose the originals while traveling, you'll have copies for easier reporting and replacement. We recommend that you pack a portable alarm clock.
| | 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 & Check-In Procedures |
Please review the flight itinerary included in these documents. Print and carry a copy of the air itinerary which contains the record locator (airline reservation number) and e-ticket number(s). At check-in, be prepared to provide your government issued identification (valid passport) and your e-ticket itinerary/ ticket numbers to the agent in order to receive your boarding pass.
An e-ticket (electronic ticket) represents the purchase of an airline seat. This form of ticket has replaced almost all formerly provided paper tickets. The e-ticket exists only as a digital record in the airlines computers. In most cases your reservation will be confirmed solely on the basis of your government-issued identification. However it may still be necessary to present the e-ticket itinerary which contains your specific reservation code and ticket number(s). Once confirmed, your luggage will be checked-in and a boarding pass provided.
Advance online check-in is available on some airlines. If available, you may enter your airline confirmation number at the airline's website, and print the boarding pass on your home printer within twenty-four hours of departure. Airlines without advance online check-in require you to present your identification and e-ticket numbers at the airport self-service kiosk or check-in counter.
When e-tickets cannot be issued, you will receive paper tickets.
If your tour program includes foreign domestic flights, and those tickets are not included together with the e-ticket itinerary in these documents, a separate voucher(s) confirming those services will be included. You will receive those tickets at your destination from a Gate 1 representative.
| | 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.
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| 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. Please note that many banks and most vendors will not accept or exchange $100 bills. We suggest to carry $20 bills or smaller.
| 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. It is recommended to carry cash in small denominations in local currency or in US $1 bills to make tipping and minor expenses easier.
| Thailand - The Thai Baht is the currency of Thailand.
It is recommended to carry cash in small denominations in local currency or in US $1 bills to make tipping and minor expenses easier.
| | 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)
- Hotel Porter:
$1 per bag per person
- Wait staff:
$1.50 per person (lunch or dinner)
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 2010 |
| Jan 1 |
International New Year Day |
| Jan 7 |
Victory Day Over Genocide |
Jan 30 |
Meak Bochea Day |
Mar 8 |
International Women's Day |
Apr 14-16 |
Khmer New Year's Day (3 day celebration) |
Apr 28 |
Visak Buja Day (Buddha's Birthday) |
May 1 |
International Labor Day |
May 15 |
King's Birthday (3 day celebration) |
May 3 |
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 20 |
Water Festival |
Dec 10 |
International Human Rights Day |
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| Holidays - Vietnam |
| Holidays 2010 |
| 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 26 |
Visakha Bucha |
July 26 |
Buddhist Lent |
Aug 12 |
Queen's Birthday |
Oct 23 |
Chulalongkorn Day |
Dec 5 |
King's Birthday |
Dec 10 |
Constitution Day |
Dec 31 |
New Year's Eve |
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| Food and Meals | As specified in each itinerary. Meals are based on the hotel's or restaurant's buffet or set menu. In general, beverages are not included, unless specifically stated. Although Gate 1 cannot make guarantees, every effort will be made to honor special dietary requests submitted in writing at least 72 hours prior to departure to info@gate1travel.com.
| 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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