Helpful Tips to Know Before You Go
- The majority of the Asian continent experiences two major seasons: the wet season and the dry season. As most of these countries lie close to the equator, you can expect quite warm weather year-round, but it's a good idea to check when monsoon season is for your favoured ports of call. Bringing waterproofs is a good plan.
- Unlike some parts of the world, there isn't much of a tipping culture in most Southeast Asian countries. Tips aren't expected in restaurants and bars. However, tour guides, porters and housekeepers in hotels will be used to receiving tips – it would be polite to tip them when you can.
- While Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted at major tourist destinations in Southeast Asia, you will likely need cash for street vendors, taxi drivers, small restaurants, and so on. Be sure to keep local currency on hand, and plan ahead of time, as access to an ATM is not always guaranteed.
- There are many different cultures across the Asian continent and it's a good idea to learn how to behave respectfully. When visiting a temple or shrine in particular, cover your arms and legs, don't stare at people praying, and don't photograph monks or other staff unless you have permission. You will often need to take shoes off when touring interior spaces, and should avoid displaying the soles of your shoes anywhere on the grounds.
- Bring an outfit that covers your shoulders and knees, as this is standard dress in many Southeast Asian countries. Take a scarf or shawl along to have extra options for covering up if you need to.
Things to Do
- Enjoy the water. Southeast Asian destinations are famous for their gorgeous lagoons, beaches and rivers, with plenty to explore. Kayak through mangrove forests, snorkel in utterly serene seas, or take boat tours of surrounding sights near your ports of call.
- Sample incredible food. There’s something remarkable to discover in every Asian country’s cooking, and Southeast Asia boasts some of the best. From mouthwatering Thai dishes like Satay or Pad Thai to sumptuous Malay or Vietnamese specialities, you’ll be eating well on your cruise. Make sure to visit local restaurants and food stalls to get the best experience.
- Admire stunning natural beauty. Southeast Asia is well known for its gorgeous scenery, with turquoise Thai waters, the breathtaking mountain vistas that surround Laos, and so much more to discover. Marvel at magnificent waterfalls and serene lagoons, lush forests and idyllic beaches…and keep your camera ready.
- Kick back and relax. When surrounded by such beauty, there’s extra incentive to take life easy and enjoy the tranquil surroundings. Spend some quality time on a soft sandy beach, enjoying a dip in the perfect crystal-clear waters whenever you please, and basking in the warm sun.
- Discover cultural marvels. Southeast Asia is famed for its fantastic cultures, and you’ll have no end of ways to explore them. Visit incredible temples, including world wonder temple complex Angkor Wat, or tour famous landmarks and statues in the ports you visit. Attend vibrant festivals, party with the locals, or just swing by a museum to enjoy local arts and history.
Why Book With Kenwood Travel
Your cruise to Southeast Asia should be an unforgettable experience, and at Kenwood Travel, we’re dedicated to making sure that’s exactly what you get. With decades of experience in crafting the perfect cruises, our experts will be on hand to help you with everything you need, offering advice on picking your itinerary, making travel plans, and anything else that will ensure your Southeast Asia cruise is the incredible time you deserve. ATOL and ABTOT protection ensure you can rest easy, knowing your getaway is in safe hands.
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