Angkor Wat Siem Reap Cambodia 

A Complete Guide to Cambodia’s New e-Arrival Card (EAC): Step-by-Step Instructions for Travelers

By globedrifters Vietnam/Cambodia

A Complete Guide to Cambodia’s New e-Arrival Card (EAC): Step-by-Step Instructions for Travelers

Welcome to your comprehensive guide on obtaining Cambodia’s e-Arrival Card (EAC), a streamlined system designed to simplify your arrival process in Cambodia. This new card replaces the paper Immigration Form, Health Form, and Customs Declaration, offering travelers a single, convenient portal. Please note that the e-Arrival Card is not an e-visa.

Both the e-Arrival Card and an e-visa are required for entry into Cambodia. Without these documents, you may face long wait times at the airport to obtain them. Therefore, it’s advisable to complete both before your arrival.

Important Submission Guidelines

You can only submit the e-Arrival Card form 7 days prior to your arrival date. If you attempt to submit earlier, you will be unable to complete the process. For more information and FAQs about the e-Arrival Card, visit the Cambodian government’s official website.


Step-by-Step Instructions to Complete the e-Arrival Card (EAC)

Note: Only fields marked with an asterisk (*) are mandatory.

1.) Access the e-Arrival Card portal by clicking here: https://www.arrival.gov.kh/.

2.) Click “Submit e-Arrival”.
Step 1 Cambodia e-Arrival Card

3.) Click “Sign In Without Account”.
Step 2 Cambodia e-Arrival Card

4.) Click in the circle above Photo Portrait. Select your saved photo. *Start by saving a clear photo of your face to your computer. You may need to crop it so it is only your face and not your entire body in the space. 
Step 3 Cambodia e-Arrival Card

5.) Enter your Passport Number, Issuing Country, Passport Type, Passport Expiry Date, and Surname. *Enter this information exactly as it appears in your passport.
Step 5 Cambodia e-Arrival Card

6.) Enter your First & Middle Name(s), Gender, Date of birth, Birth country, and Occupation. *Enter these details exactly as they appear in your passport. For Occupation, select “Other” and type in your job or “Retired”.
Step 6 Cambodia e-Arrival Card

7.) Upload a photo of your passport information page.
Step 7 Cambodia e-Arrival Card

8.) Enter your personal phone number. Select the country code first. Click “Next”.
Step 8 Cambodia e-Arrival Card

9.) Enter your email address. Review your Issuing Country and Passport Type. Check “Already has a visa”. Check “Valid e-Visa”. Click “Next”.

Step 9 Cambodia e-Arrival Card
Step 9 Cambodia e-Arrival Card

10.) Select your Date of Arrival in Cambodia. Enter your Date of Departure from Cambodia. Click “Next”. *Remember that you can only submit this form 7 days before your arrival in Cambodia. If you’re on a Globe Drifters trip, we will send you your arrival and departure dates.

Step 10 Cambodia e-Arrival Card

11.) Enter your Port of Entry, Travel purpose, Type of Air Transport, and Flight Number. *If you’re on a Globe Drifters trip, your Port of Entry will be “Siem Reap Angkor International Airport (SAI)” and we will send you your Flight Number. Most travelers’ Travel Purpose will be “Holiday/Pleasure/Vocation” and Type of Air Transport will be “Commercial”.
Step 11 Cambodia e-Arrival Card

12.) Click “Next”. *You are not required to upload your Flight Ticket Documents. 

Step 12 Cambodia e-Arrival Card

13.) Enter your Accommodation Type, Hotel name, Hotel contact number, and Hotel Province. The Hotel Address is not required. Click “Next”. *If you’re on a Globe Drifters trip, we will provide you all the information needed for this step. Most visitors to Cambodia will select “Hotel” for Accommodation Type.

Step 13 Cambodia e-Arrival Card

14.) Enter your city before arrival in Cambodia. Also enter your city after leaving Cambodia. Click “Next”. *If you’re on a Globe Drifters trip, your Port of Embarkation before Cambodia will be “Danang, Vietnam”. Your Port of Disembarkation after Cambodia will be the next city you fly to from Siem Reap which can be found on your flight itinerary.

Step 14 Cambodia e-Arrival Card

15.) Answer the questions in the Health Information section. Click “Next”.
Step 15 Cambodia e-Arrival Card

16.) Review the duty-free allowances. Select Yes or No for each of the questions. Check the box next to “I hereby confirm that all the statements in this declaration are true and correct.” Click “Next”.

Step 16 Cambodia e-Arrival Card

17.) Review the Declaration. Check the box next to “I have read and agreed to the declaration.” Click “Submit”.

Step 17 Cambodia e-Arrival Card

18.) Print a paper copy of your QR code and save a copy of it on your phone. *This QR code and your e-visa are required to enter Cambodia and having both on arrival will expedite your arrival process. Print a copy of each and save a copy of each on your phone just in case!
Step 18 Cambodia 3-Arrival Card


With this complete guide to obtaining Cambodia’s e-Arrival Card (EAC) and your e-visa, you can avoid long lines and enjoy a smoother entry into the country. Happy travels!

 

How to Get a Visa for Cambodia

By globedrifters Vietnam/Cambodia

How to Get a Visa for Cambodia

Getting a visa for Cambodia is required for many travelers. Most don’t need to apply at a consulate or embassy though. For most visitors to Cambodia, the e-visa is the most convenient visa option.


Do I need a visa for Cambodia?

Most travelers will need a visa to enter and travel within Cambodia. This includes travelers from the US, Canada, the UK, and Australia. If you’re not from one of these countries and are unsure whether or not you need a visa for Cambodia, it’s best to contact your nearest Cambodian Embassy or Consulate. 

face angkor wat


What is the e-visa for Cambodia?

The Cambodia e-visa is a travel document that will allow you to enter and travel within Cambodia. The cost is approximately $30 USD plus a $6 processing fee. You will usually receive your e-visa about 3 – 5 business days after submitting your application and payment. 

It’s best to wait to apply for your Cambodia e-visa until 90 days or less before your Cambodia arrival date. If you try to apply sooner, you may not be able to submit your application. If you apply 2 – 4 weeks before your trip, that usually gives you plenty of time to fill out the application, make payment, and receive the e-visa. 


How do I get an e-visa for Cambodia?

To apply for your visa, go to https://www.evisa.gov.kh/application_new.

 *NOTE: Above is the only official government e-visa portal for Cambodia. There are many other websites out there that offer e-visa services at double the price or more. We do not vouch for the legitimacy or service of these 3rd party websites.

To get started, click on the link above and read the instructions.

Once you’ve done this, it’s time to start your application. Fill out all of the fields as prompted with your personal and travel information. Make sure all fields are filled in correctly.

Finally, you’ll need to confirm your application, agree to the service terms, and pay.

Once your visa application and payment have been processed, you will receive an email updating you on your application status. If your visa is approved, you will receive instructions about how to download your e-visa. It usually takes about 3 business days to receive e-visa approval.

Your e-visa will be valid for a single entry and for 30 days.

If your visa is denied, you may not receive any explanation as to why it was denied. The most common reasons for visa denial are typos in the data you entered in the application or an unclear/illegible picture of your passport. There are no refunds for denied visas and you can usually apply again if denied. 

IMPORTANT: You need to print a paper copy of your e-visa to bring with you upon your arrival in Cambodia.


Cambodia e-visa: Step-by-step instructions

Below are step-by-step instructions with pictures for getting your Cambodia e-visa.

Step #1: Getting started

Go to: https://www.evisa.gov.kh/application_new. Enter the Captcha code and click “Apply Now”.

cambodia visa

Step #2: Enter your information

Upload your passport photo and data page.

cambodia visa

Next, enter your personal information as it appears in your passport in the fields with a red asterisk*. NOTE: Your “Address in Cambodia” is your hotel, Airbnb, etc. If you’re on our tour, we’ll send you the hotel name, address, and details.

cambodia visa personal information

Next, enter your passport information in the fields with a red asterisk*. “Visa Type” should be “Visa T $36”. Refer to your flight itinerary for “Intended Date of Entry”. If you’re on our Vietnam/Cambodia tour, your “Port of Entry” will be “Siem Reap International Airport”. Click “Next”.

cambodia visa passport info

Step #3: Review your information

Review all of your information to make sure it’s correct. Check the box next to “I agree”. Then, click “Submit”. 

You will also get an email confirming receipt of your information and containing your reference number. If you don’t see it in your inbox, try your spam folder. Now, you’ll need to pay for your visa.

cambodia visa review info email

cambodia visa review info email

Step #4: Make payment

Return to the screen/tab where you completed your application. Click on your preferred payment method. Click “Confirm”.

cambodia visa payment method

Enter your payment details. Click “Pay $36.00”.

cambodia visa make payment

Step #5: Receive your Cambodia e-visa

After about 3 – 5 business days at the most, you will receive an email with your Cambodia e-visa. Once you’ve downloaded it, be sure to print a copy and bring it with you for your arrival in Cambodia!

cambodian evisa


We know everything related to visas can be stressful and frustrating. However, getting a Cambodia e-visa is pretty easy and straightforward. Just read the instructions carefully and follow the prompts. Happy travels!

Vietnam halong bay 

How to Get a Visa for Vietnam

By globedrifters Vietnam/Cambodia

How to Get a Visa for Vietnam

Getting a visa for Vietnam is required for many travelers. Most don’t need to apply at a consulate or embassy though. For most visitors to Vietnam, the e-visa is the most convenient visa option.


Do I need a visa for Vietnam?

Most travelers will need a visa to enter and travel within Vietnam. This includes travelers from the US, Canada, and Australia. If you’re not from one of these countries and are unsure whether or not you need a visa for Vietnam, it’s best to contact your nearest Vietnamese Embassy or Consulate. 

vietnam hanoi train street


Do I need an e-visa for Vietnam?

US, Canadian, Australian, New Zealand, and South African passpot holders will need an e-visa to enter and travel within Vietnam. You can see all countries that are eligible to apply for a Vietnam e-visa here.

The Vietnam e-visa is a travel document that will allow you to enter and travel within Vietnam. The cost is approximately $25 USD. You will usually receive your e-visa anywhere from 3 ~ 5 business days after submitting your application and payment. 

It’s best to apply for your Vietnam e-visa 90 days or less before your Vietnam arrival date. If you try to apply sooner, you may not be able to submit your application. If you apply 2 – 4 weeks before your trip, you will usually have plenty of time to fill out the application, make payment, and receive the e-visa. 


How do I get an e-visa for Vietnam?

Please see the step-by-step instructions below. Note that if your visa is denied, you may not receive any explanation as to why it was denied. The most common reasons for visa denial are typos in the data you entered in the application or an unclear/illegible picture of your passport. There are no refunds for denied visas and you can usually apply again if denied. 

IMPORTANT: You must print a paper copy of your e-visa to bring with you upon your arrival in Vietnam.

Go to official Vietnam E-visa website:

Go to: https://evisa.gov.vn/. Click “Apply Now”.

Read instructions:

Click the 2 boxes at the bottom. Click “Next”.


Upload your passport photo:

Under “Portrait photography”, click “Choose file” to upload your passport photo. (Must be a recent photo, 4×6 cm, jpg/jpeg format, and file size must be 2 MB or less.)


Upload your passport page:

Under “Passport data page image”, click “Choose file” to upload your passport information page.

Enter your personal information:

After uploading your photo and passport, some personal information may be auto-filled. Verify that it is correct and fill in all other fields with an asterisk* by them as they apply to you. (You can leave the ones without an asterisk* blank.) Where applicable, fill in the information exactly as it appears in your passport.

NOTE: Pay close attention to the date format. It is DD/MM/YYYY.

Enter information about your trip:

You only need to fill in the fields with an asterisk* by them. (You can leave the ones without an asterisk* blank.) Where applicable, refer to your flight itinerary and hotel reservation. If you’re on a Globe Drifters tour, we’ll email you these details. Don’t forget to check the box at the bottom of the form and click “Next”.

NOTE: The Hanoi airport is known as Noi Bai.



Review your application:

Make sure all of your information is correct. Enter the Security code and click “Next”.

A pop-up window will appear:

Review the information and click “Confirm”.

You will also get an email:

This will confirm receipt of your information and contain your registration code. If you don’t see it in your inbox, try your spam folder. Now, you’ll need to pay for your visa.

Proceed to payment:

Review all the information to make sure it is correct. Check the box “I agree to pay” and click “Payment”.

You will be re-directed to a payment page:

Select “Pay by Visa/Mastercard/JCB/Amex”. Click on the type of card you have.

NOTE: The ATM card option is mostly for locals. It will not be an available option for many of you. 

Enter your card details:

Click “Continue”.
vietnam e-visa payment page

You’re all paid up:

You’ll get a message similar to the one below and/or an email saying that you’ve paid. Click “OK”.

Receive your e-visa:

Usually after about 3 business days, you will usually receive an email notifying you that you’re approved for the Vietnam e-visa. You’ll also receive instructions on how to download it. Once you’ve downloaded it, be sure to print a copy and bring it with you for your arrival in Vietnam!

NOTE: It may take more than 3 business days to receive your e-visa. 
vietnam e-visa document


We know everything related to visas can be stressful and frustrating. However, getting a Vietnam e-visa Vietnam is pretty easy and straightforward. Just read the instructions carefully and follow the prompts. Happy travels!

halong bay vietnam 

Getting from Hanoi Noi Bai Airport to the Old Quarter

By globedrifters Vietnam/Cambodia

Getting from Hanoi Noi Bai Airport to the Old Quarter

Traveling or planning a trip to Vietnam? We’ll help you get started with these 3 ways of getting from Hanoi Noi Bai Airport (HAN) to the Old Quarter (Hoan Kiem).

Airport pick-up is not included in our 15-day Vietnam/Cambodia trip. Many travelers to Vietnam will arrive at Hanoi Noi Bai Airport. A great number of you will spend at least 1 night in Hanoi’s Old Quarter before exploring the rest of the country. The airport is approximately 15 – 20 miles (25 – 30 kilometers) from Old Town. It takes anywhere from 30 – 60 minutes to get from Hanoi Noi Bai Airport to Old Town depending on traffic and weather conditions. The cost depends on the option you choose.

*Please note that Globe Drifters does not recommend any of the 3 options below over another. It is best to do your own research and weigh the pros and cons of each option to find what is best for you. 


Arriving at Hanoi Noi Bai Airport (HAN)

To get started, you’ll need to deplane and go through immigration. If you’re on our trip to Vietnam and Cambodia, you should already have your e-visa in hand. Follow everyone off the airplane and the signs that say “Arrival Immigration”.

hanoi noi bai airport immigration

Follow the crowds of people and the signs that say “Arrival Immigration”.

Pass Through Immigration

Then, stand in line at one of the immigration booths that has a green “All Passengers” sign above it. There are usually a lot of people standing in line so be prepared to wait. The lines typically move relatively quickly, but you could be there for a while.

Hanoi Noi Bai Airport Immigration

Stand in line at an immigration booth with a green sign that says “All Passengers”.

The immigration officer will check your e-visa and passport. After he stamps your passport, you’re free to go collect your luggage at baggage claim. Look for the screen that has your flight on it to know what carousel your luggage is on.

Collect your Luggage

Hanoi Noi Bai Airport Luggage Claim

The screens after the immigration booths will have your arrival flight information and luggage carousel number.

Then, go downstairs to the appropriate luggage carousel and collect your luggage. Once you have your luggage in hand, you need to pass through customs.

Pass Through Customs

Hanoi Noi Bai Airport Customs

Pass through customs.

Now, you’re ready to catch your transportation and start your adventure in Hanoi!


Option 1: Pre-Arranged Airport Pick-Up

One way to get from the Hanoi Noi Bai Airport to your hotel in the Old Quarter is to pre-arrange airport pick-up before arrival with companies such as Welcome Pickups. This is one of the faster and more expensive options. It will take you approximately 30 – 60 minutes to get to the Old Quarter. You can find other companies by searching travel websites such as TripAdvisor. The cost will vary depending on the company. You can also pre-arrange airport drop-off at the end of your trip.

If you’ve pre-arranged your airport pick-up, you’ll usually find a driver waiting for you after luggage claim in the public arrivals area. He’ll typically have a sign with your name on it. It’s best to ask your transfer company for specific instructions and what/who to look for.

For those on our Vietnam/Cambodia trip, we will put you in touch with one another before the trip starts so you can share flight arrival times and coordinate pre-arranged airport pick-up if you so wish.

It’s important to have WhatsApp downloaded and set up on your phone before you arrive so you can be in touch with the transfer company and/or driver. There is free Wifi at the Hanoi Noi Bai Airport, but if you can’t connect, you can turn on data roaming.

*IMPORTANT: Globe Drifters does not vouch for any transfer companies you may find online. It’s important to do your research, read reviews, and contact the company to make sure that it is indeed a trustworthy, legitimate company.

Hanoi Noi Bai Airport Arrivals

After you collect your luggage and exit baggage claim, you’ll usually see your driver here.


Option 2: Take a Private Transfer on Arrival

Another option is to take a private transfer when you arrive at Hanoi Noi Bai Airport. When you have collected your luggage and exited baggage claim, turn left through the crowds of people in the arrivals area. There are a few small kiosks that offer money exchange and private transfers from Hanoi Noi Bai Airport to your hotel in the Old Quarter.

Hanoi Noi Bai Airport Transfers

An example of one of the few kiosks that offer private transfer services.

Here, you can easily book a private transfer for a flat rate of approximately 500,000 VND (≈ $20 USD) one way. Make sure you have your hotel name and address handy so the driver knows where to go. 

*NOTE: If you need cash, you can also exchange currency at one of these kiosks. We do not recommend exchanging a large amount of money at these kiosks as their commission/fees are quite high. Alternatively, if you continue toward the end of the row of kiosks, there are a few ATMs which you can withdraw money from. Please be advised that airport money exchangers and ATMs do not offer very good rates and often charge high fees. As a general rule, it’s best to only exchange or withdraw a small amount of cash at the airport and seek a better deal in town.

Hanoi Noi Bai Airport ATMs

A few ATMs are available in the arrivals area of Hanoi airport.


Option 3: Take a Taxi

Taking a taxi from Noi Bai Airport to the Old Quarter is probably the cheapest option but not by much. By taxi, it will take approximately 30 – 60 minutes to get to the Old Quarter depending on traffic and weather conditions. The cost in a regular 5-seater car is usually anywhere from $10 – $15 USD or more depending on traffic and time of day. Almost all taxis will only accept payment in cash. Taxis are available at Hanoi Noi Bai International Airport 24 hours a day so no matter what time you arrive, you should be able to catch one. *Note that Uber and Lyft do not operate in Vietnam.

Just like many taxis around the world, scams are present in Vietnam. If you choose to take a taxi, be firm but polite. Let the taxi know that you would like him to use the meter and that you already have a hotel booked. 

If you’re going on our Vietnam/Cambodia trip, we will put you in touch with one another before your trip so you can share flight arrival times and make plans to share a taxi if you’d like.

Have your hotel address ready to show to the driver and make sure he turns on the meter. We will provide our travelers with this information in the pre-departure notes a couple of weeks before your trip starts. Then, you’re off to begin your adventure!

Follow the “Taxi” signs

To catch a taxi at the Hanoi airport, you’ll exit baggage claim and follow the “Taxi” signs with arrows.

Hanoi Noi Bai Airport Taxi

Look for the taxi signs on the exit doors of the baggage claim area.

Hanoi Noi Bai Airport Taxi

And on the signs above. Just follow the arrows!

You’ll end up outside the terminal at the taxi line. You will know you’ve arrived when you see a line of taxis and a big digital, neon signboard with taxi brands and fares. As soon as you get near it, you’ll probably be approached by several drivers and/or middlemen.

Hanoi Noi Bai Airport Taxi

Look for the line of taxis and this big neon sign!

Choose a Taxi

There are several different taxi brands with various fares. Globe Drifters does not recommend any particular brand so it’s up to you to decide which brand and fare you’d like to choose. Just be sure to have the driver use the meter and show him your hotel name and address. Mai Linh and Taxi Hanoi are a couple of legitimate taxi companies for your reference. 

The total fare for a 5-seater will be around 350,000 ~ 400,000 VND (approximately $12 – 16 USD). Be aware that your driver may add the airport exit toll of approximately 20,000 VND to your fare. Pre-arranged pick-ups will usually include this in the fixed rate price.

Hanoi Noi Bai Airport Taxi

You can see the running fare on the meter which is usually in plain sight in legitimate taxis.

*Note from the author: Taking a taxi from the Hanoi airport to the Old Quarter can be overwhelming, especially after a tiring, long-haul international flight. When you arrive at the taxi line, you’ll probably have taxi drivers and middlemen swarming around you and insisting that you take a taxi. If you really want to save a few bucks, then a taxi is your best bet.


Tipping

Tipping is not required. However, if you had heavy luggage or your driver was extra friendly and made your ride a pleasant one, then you are welcome to tip him. An appropriate amount to tip would be about 20,000 – 50,000 VND (approximately $1 – $2 USD) depending on how much luggage you had and how heavy it was.


Taxi Scams

As mentioned above, taxi scams can happen in Vietnam just as in many countries all over the world. At the most, these scams usually won’t cost you more than $5 – $10 USD so if it occurs, understand that it happens to the most seasoned traveler and there usually isn’t much recourse. Our advice is to let it go and get ready for your grand adventure in Vietnam!


In summary, each option has its own pros and cons and the 3 mentioned above are ones that have worked in the past for our travelers. You may find another option that works better for you. No matter which airport transfer option you choose, you’ll have an amazing experience in Vietnam! Happy travels!

vietnam cambodia travel tips 

How to get a Cambodian Visa at Siem Reap Airport

By globedrifters Vietnam/Cambodia

Getting a Cambodian Visa at Siem Reap Airport

Getting a Cambodian Visa on arrival at the Siem Reap airport is a pretty easy affair and it is outlined in the 4 steps below.

Just one of the amazing temples around Angkor Wat!

1.) Complete forms during your flight.

There is one international airport in Siem Reap (Siem Reap International Airport.) During your flight to REP, you will likely get the following forms from the flight crew :

  • Application Form Visa on Arrival
  • Arrival/Departure Card
  • General Department of Customs and Excise Passenger’s Declaration (Customs Declaration form)

Cambodia Visa on Arrival Application Form 

Cambodia Arrival/Departure Card

Cambodia Customs and Excise Declaration Form

If you do not receive them from a member of the flight crew member, just ask them the forms to get a Cambodian visa on arrival. If they’re not available, don’t worry; you can pick them up once you arrive at the airport. However, you will more than likely receive them during your flight, so you can fill them out with a pen. Ink pens are not typically provided at the airport, so it’s best to have your own with you. If you have questions when filling out the forms, just ask a flight crew member. He or she will be able to assist you.

2.) Receive your visa at the Siem Reap airport visa area

Once you’ve landed, you’ll enter the airport at which point you’ll need to have the following available to give to the visa officer :

  • Passport with 6 months validity and 2 blank pages for the visa sticker
  • $30 USD cash (exact change)
  • 3 above-mentioned forms (completed)

Once you’ve de-planed and entered the airport, you’ll need to go to the visa kiosks before passing immigration to get your visa on arrival. Look for the signs that say “Visa on Arrival” and follow them. As you enter the airport, you’ll see a large hall/room and will need to walk straight ahead. The signs are typically in plain view, but if you cannot locate them, just ask. Just make sure that you head to the Visa on Arrival desk BEFORE getting to the immigration line.

3.) Clear customs and immigration

Once you’ve given all proper documentation to the visa officer and received the visa sticker in your passport, exit the visa kiosk area and head to the customs and immigration clearance area to your left. You’ll then show them your passport and all other remaining documents including those that you filled out on the flight to Siem Reap. You’ll then pass through the immigration area to collect your luggage.

4.) Collect your luggage

Once you’ve collected your luggage, you’ll exit the baggage claim area into the public area of the arrivals terminal. Your Cambodian guide will be waiting for you there with a sign that says “Globe Drifters” in plain sight. He will guide you to your tuk tuks that will take you to your hotel.

You’re now ready to start your adventure in Cambodia!

The beautiful blue waters surrounding Koh Rong Sanloem!

hang-son-doong-cave-vietnam2 

Son Doong Cave – Quang Binh Province, Vietnam

By globedrifters Vietnam/Cambodia

Son Doong Cave – Quang Binh Province, Vietnam

Imagine trekking straight into the depths of the world’s largest cave on an expedition unlike any other. A jungle within a cave, that’s almost so unreal that you have to see it to believe it. Misty clouds enveloping the whole scene, evidence of the cave’s own weather system. Fossil passageways that give proof of the cave’s ancient existence. – Oxalis Adventure Tours (Son Doong Cave Expedition) 

150319-news-son-doong-vietnam-cave-vin

Right now there is only one tour operator that is permitted to take you into this cave, Oxalis Tours. For a 5 day/4 night trek it will cost you $3,000 USD and includes 2 nights before and after the cave expedition. They operate from February to August with 10 travelers maximum. They also offer a photography trip.

hang-son-doong-cave-vietnam2

It is a pretty difficult trek, but this would be a perfect excuse to get in tip-top shape again. It really is a once in a lifetime chance since there is only one tour operator out there that can take you on this expedition. Getting to the entrance of the cave is also a trek and there are no signs to point you in the right direction, so a guide is very important to help you find your way to the cave.

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son-doong-cave-nature_130768

 

Koh Rong Samloem Island, Cambodia

By globedrifters Vietnam/Cambodia

Koh Rong Samloem Island, Cambodia

Koh Rong Samloem is an island off the coast of Cambodia and is not to be confused with the similarly named Koh Rong island, which is 4 kilometers north of Koh Rong Samloem. To get to this island you must take a boat from the beach town of Sihanoukville which takes around 45 minutes (by speed boat).

Koh Rong Samloem is a deserted island paradise; so deserted that the show ‘Survivor’ filmed 2 seasons here and has a permanent base camp on the island for the production team to stay in.

If you had gone to this island 10 years ago you would have only had one choice in accommodation and very limited amenities. With each passing year, more and more bungalows are popping up, making the most of what is essentially an ‘island paradise.’

The island is known for its white sand beaches and crystal clear blue waters. Many areas claim to have these traits but when you show up the water is dark and the sand is yellow but this island truly has the white sand and crystal clear waters!

What makes this island special is the lack of development making it a tranquil place to relax and although this island used to only draw the backpacker crowd due to the ‘basic’ accommodation the recent fast growing development on the island is drawing more visitors than ever before but don’t worry, the ambiance has not been lost……yet. The future of Koh Rong Salmoem is not looking good.  The island was leased out for 99 years to the Royal Group who plans to push out the bungalows on the island and build Asia’s first environmentally planned resort and I am guessing to stay at this soon to be resort will cost more than a pretty penny so now is the time to go before the development starts.

The island is not for…..for the lack of a better word ‘diva’ as it is completely off the electrical grid with most bungalows only offering electricity for 4-5 hours a day, usually between 6-11 pm but there are a few bungalows now that offer electricity 24 hours a day. Hot water is I believe in only one or two ‘hotels’ on the island and there are no ATM’s, no vehicles, no medical clinic and very limited Wifi but who needs wifi when your in paradise! There are very small villages here as well that you can visit and hang with the locals.

A favorite activity to do here at night is swim with the bioluminescent plankton.  You can either take a boat about 5 minutes off the coast or just walk out into the ocean until you see the plankton light up!  The plankton do bite and it is not necessarily a throbbing pain but can become quite the nuisance to the point that you can only spend about 5 minutes in the water before getting on the boat and that is why I suggest not going on a boat and just find a dark spot on the island (which there are many) and walk out until you are about stomach deep and then start moving your hands and feet and you will see the plankton light up. The movement in the water makes the plankton light up and if you bring a mask and snorkel this would be ideal.  It is not necessarily the bioluminescent plankton that is so awe-inspiring but a combination of things.  Since the island has very little light pollution and is far from the main land the stars are in the sky number in the thousands. You will see more stars in the sky then you have ever seen before!  So the combination of the starry sky, the bioluminescent plankton, secluded beach in warm waters makes for a pretty amazing moment and this is why Koh Rong is top on my list of things to see in Asia.

If you are looking for places to stay we suggest Saracen Bay Resort.  If you plan on going in peak season November to February we suggest booking way ahead of time as rooms can fill up fast as many of the bungalow hotels only have 4-10 bungalows to rent so very limited.  Saracen Bay Resort does have 24 hour electricity but no hot water and fan only.  The restaurant on the premises is probably the best on the island and the rooms are really well appointed compared to most other bungalows that are more for backpackers with basic amenities.

Survivor-Koh-Rong

koh-rong-long-beach

koh rong use

Joe Ac small house

Villagers in Koh Rong: Photo credit – Joe Achacaso

Joe ac small village

Village in Koh Rong: Photo credit – Joe Achacaso

plankton

As you move your arms and legs this is what it looks like underwater. The amount of plankton just depends on how fast you move your arms and legs.

saracen bay resort

Bungalow at Saracen Bay Resort

saracen-bay-resort view from room

View from Bungalow at Saracen Bay Resort