Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
mosexual activities. There is not usually a problem with same-sex couples checking into rooms throughout
the region, as it is so common among travellers.
Check out
Utopia Asian Gay & Lesbian Resources
(
www.utopia-asia.com
)
for more information on gay
and lesbian travel in Asia. Other links with useful pointers for gay travellers include
www.gayguide.net
and
Insurance
A travel insurance policy to cover theft, loss and medical problems is essential. Worldwide travel insurance
is available at
www.lonelyplanet.com/travel_services
. You can buy, extend and claim online anytime - even
if you're already on the road.
A few considerations to keep in mind when purchasing insurance:
»
Some policies specifically exclude 'dangerous activities', which can include scuba diving, motorcycling
and even trekking.
»
A locally acquired motorcycle licence is not valid under some policies.
»
Check that the policy covers ambulance rides and emergency flights home.
Internet Access
You won't have trouble finding internet access or free wi-fi, at least in cities and touristy areas. 3G connec-
tions are also cheap and functional. A few concerns:
»
Vietnam regularly blocks access to social networking sites, including Facebook. Learn to navigate the
ways around such blocks if you feel the need to drop travel-related science on the interweb.
»
Cambodian islands generally lack wi-fi (and mobile phone coverage for that matter), as do most national
parks and similarly remote areas, particularly in Laos.
»
Connection speeds aren't always the best but, hey, being on the internet at all in this neck of the woods is
a bonus, right?
Legal Matters
Be sure to know the national laws before unwittingly committing a crime. In all of the Mekong region coun-
tries, using or trafficking drugs carries stiff punishments that are enforced, even if you're a foreigner.
If you are the victim of a crime, contact the tourist police, if available; they are usually better trained to
deal with foreigners and foreign languages than the regular police force.
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