Essence of Vietnam and Cambodia - Additional information

Entry into Vietnam & Cambodia
Please ensure that your passport has at least 6 months validity from your return date left on your passport. 
Australian passport holders will need (electronic) visas for entry into both countries. Below is a reminder of the official websites to apply, or you may apply through Vina Visas (additional charges will apply). We offer in-office assistance for a fee.

If you wish to organise your own e-visas, please visit these websites:

Vietnam - https://thithucdientu.gov.vn/

Cambodia - evisa.gov.kh

Continue to monitor www.smartraveller.gov.au for any changes to entry requirements.

 

Weather
Vietnam - Daytime temperatures usually range from 24 to 31°C. This is a great time for outdoor activities. In the south of the country, October is warm and dry, with daytime temperatures ranging from 27 to 30°C.
Cambodia - You can expect very warm weather throughout Cambodia in October. Days can be humid and sunny with some rainfall, and temperatures average around 31°C across the country.
 

Currency
Vietnam:
Local currency in Vietnam is the Vietnamese Dong (VND). The United States Dollar (USD) is widely accepted in Vietnam and is one of the most common currencies exchanged. Most hotels and larger businesses in Vietnam accept USD, but smaller vendors and street markets may only accept VND.

Cambodia:
Local currency in Cambodia is the Riel. All goods and services can be paid for in Riel or USD, although the Riel price is often better value.

 

Bargaining
Both countries love to bargain (unless visiting fixed-price shops), so be prepared to haggle in the market stalls.  If you successfully agree to a price, it is rude to then refuse, so please keep this in mind when doing your negotiations.  Think of how much you’d be prepared to pay for any items (in AUD), then start below your limit.
 

Modesty whilst travelling
Dress standards can be more conservative outside of major cities in Vietnam and Cambodia. To respect this, and for your own comfort, we strongly recommend wearing modest clothing. This means clothes that cover your shoulders and knees, particularly in pagodas and religious sites. Do not draw attention to yourself and leave any valuable jewellery at home.  You will be visiting areas where there may be some poverty, so please be mindful and respectful.

 

What to Pack
Travel for comfort rather than for style.  Comfortable walking shoes are a must. A hat and sunscreen, layering clothes (for any change in weather), a lightweight jacket, and a pashmina for multi-purpose, modesty and warmth.  Also, bring your bathers, many of your hotels have pools.

 

Tipping
Tipping for your drivers and guides has been included in your tour cost.  Please allow approximately. USD50 for individual tipping whilst on the cruise, tuk tuk rides etc.

 

Luggage
Please keep your luggage to a minimum. Do not take what you cannot handle yourself. Where available, the hotel staff will assist with taking your luggage to your room (for a tip) so please keep this in mind when packing.

 

Health While Travelling
There is always a risk to your health when travelling, and it is better to be prepared. It is recommended to take with you some diarrhoea medication in case you come down with a stomach bug. It is also a good idea to bring along some hydrolyte for dehydration purposes. We also recommend Travelan to help protect your stomach from any nasties (available over the counter at any pharmacy). For any other vaccination/health/medical concerns with regards to travelling, please consult your GP or visit a Travel Doctor.

 

Travel Insurance
It is mandatory for travellers to have comprehensive travel insurance; please ensure you have provided Sisterhood Womens Travel with a copy of your policy, including a 24/7 Emergency Contact Number.
 

WhatsApp Group
Please make sure you download WhatsApp onto your phone prior to departure.  This App will be your communication tool whilst on tour, and your tour hostess will contact you prior to departure to set you up in your tour WhatsApp group.  It’s also a lovely way to remain in touch with friends upon your return.

 

Changes to Itinerary
We do our best to give Sisters an enjoyable, trouble-free tour experience, but occasionally, even the best-laid plans can go awry.  We cannot rule out any changes to the itinerary and ask that you maintain a positive, upbeat and flexible attitude.

 

Updated: 26 June 2025