If and when you find yourself backpacking do not under any circumstances plan ahead. Many factors can alter you plans so it is better to be flexible, and try to minimize expectations. As a result from our lack of planning, we have been able to capitalize on cheap air deals, random adventures, and interesting guest houses. For example, if we had plan
Always negotiate prices, and always cut the original price in half…or else the jokes on you. Whether it is food, hotel rooms, marked clothing, or souvenirs you can basically pay whatever you want. For example, a recent purchase of Birmy’s was a hammock, where the vendor must of taken him for a fool asking 2,200 baht..(75 USD) for a hammock. Out of guilt Birmy purchased to hammock for 300 (10 dollars) because he felt any lower price would just have been sad.
There is no queuing in Vietnam. Whether it is boarding a plane, waiting for food, or trying to pay if you are not aggressive enough you are left in the dust. Only the strongest, and loudest survive.
Be aware when flying JetStar Asia, or any other local south east Asian airline; for you get what you pay for. As excited as you get for securing an international flight for 100 dollars, know that you are in for a frustrating, but comedic couple of hours. In Saigon, our gate changed 3 times, in a matter of 5 minutes, two hours after the plane was scheduled to board.
Just because you bought a bus ticket does not guarantee you a seat. Your mother’s lessons in polite interactions can not be applied when boarding a bus. Again, social Darwinism applies because if the seats run out you are either sitting on the floor of the bus, or on a lose plastic chair in the isles…for hours.
Prepare yourself for any and all weather conditions. A good rain jacket is crucial. In any given day, especially on the coast, expect to experience all four seasons, and all types of weather conditions.
Embrace the SE Asian mentality when you are here. There may not be many rules, but if you follow a few basic rules, and respect the people you will find it one of the most accommodating and friendly regions to travel. Our expectations regarding language barriers, safety, ease of traveling have been blown out of the water. Whatever town, city, or village you are in you can find someone who speaks English, and is able to help you organize plans for your next stop.
Don’t eat burgers in SE Asia. If you do, prepare yourself for a burger that tastes like cardboard, mixed with grass seed, with a hint of cinnamon- it is a great combination that you can only find in Lao or other semi-deserted areas. Avoid feeling disappointed and try something local.
Do not underestimate your ability to find a good dessert. Even though our current favorite in Thailand is the famous mango and coconut sticky rice (Thanks to Mr. B’s recommendation), we have come across great homemade ice cream, and brownie sundaes in all places.
Just because she looks like a girl doesn’t mean she is one. Phuket, and other coastal regions that attract tourists, also attract the famous “lady-boys”. These ladyboys also often work as masseuses, waitresses, or dancers so prepare yourself for these awkward encounters. Luckily, we were spared, but we have heard some horror stories from other travelers.
Wild animals. In Vietnam it is worse than Thailand, but recently we have had far too many encounters with stray cats. (Yes Cam, naked stray cats). You can be eating, walking, sleeping, busing, or anything ending in an “ing” and you can see or hear 50 cats at any given time.
Get massages, facials, etc. whenever you can. As long as the establishment does not look like animal shelter for humans you can most likely get a awesome hour and a half massage anywhere from 2-10 dollars.
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