Indochina Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, what to eat, and more in Southeast Asia with our comprehensive Indochina travel guide.


Indochina Travel Guide: A Comprehensive Tour Guide for Southeast Asia

Southeast Asia is one of the most popular travel destinations in the world, and Indochina is a fascinating region with a rich history, diverse culture, and stunning natural beauty. Whether you’re a backpacker on a budget, a family on vacation, or an adventure junkie looking for your next adrenaline fix, Indochina has something for everyone.

In this comprehensive Indochina travel guide, we’ll take you on a journey through the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, what to eat, and more. Let’s get started!

List of Places to Visit in Indochina

Indochina is composed of three countries: Vietnam, Cambodia, and Laos. Each of these countries is unique in its own way and has a rich cultural heritage. Here are some of the must-visit places in Indochina:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Indochina has a rich cultural heritage, and there are several museums and historical places that reflect this. Here are some of the best cultural attractions in the region:

Natural Attractions of Indochina: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Indochina is known for its stunning natural beauty, and there are several outdoor adventures and scenic views to explore. Here are some of the best natural attractions in the region:

Hiking/Biking Routes of Indochina

Indochina is a great place for hiking and biking enthusiasts. Here are some of the best hiking and biking routes in the region:

Best Things to Do in Indochina: Activities and Tours

Indochina offers a wide range of activities and tours for travelers. Here are some of the best things to do in the region:

Week-Long Itinerary for Indochina

If you’re planning a week-long trip to Indochina, here’s a sample itinerary to help you get started:

Day Activity
Day 1 Arrive in Hanoi, Vietnam
Explore the Old Quarter
Day 2 Take a day trip to Ha Long Bay
Day 3 Fly to Luang Prabang, Laos
Visit Kuang Si Waterfalls
Day 4 Take a cycling tour of Luang Prabang
Visit the Royal Palace Museum
Day 5 Fly to Siem Reap, Cambodia
Explore Angkor Wat
Day 6 Take a cooking class in Siem Reap
Visit the War Museum
Day 7 Fly back home

Food and Drink Scene of Indochina

Indochina has a rich culinary scene influenced by Chinese, French, and Indian cultures. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Pho (Vietnamese noodle soup)
  • Amok Trey (Cambodian fish curry)
  • Khao Soi (Laotian coconut curry noodles)
  • Banh mi (Vietnamese sandwich)

Local Beverages

  • Beer Lao (Laos)
  • Angkor beer (Cambodia)
  • Bia Hoi (Vietnam)

Where to Stay in Indochina: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Indochina has plenty of accommodation options to suit any budget. Here are some of the best places to stay:

What to Buy in Indochina: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

The markets of Indochina offer a wide range of souvenirs and local products. Here are some items that are popular with tourists:

  • Silk scarves and clothing (Laos)
  • Lacquerware (Vietnam)
  • Handmade paper products (Cambodia)

Local Culture and Customs of Indochina

Indochina has a unique cultural heritage that has been shaped by centuries of history. Here are some customs and traditions to be aware of:

  • Remove your shoes before entering someone’s home or a temple.
  • Dress conservatively, especially when visiting religious sites.
  • Always show respect to elders and those in positions of authority.
  • Tipping is not customary, but it is becoming more common in tourist areas.

Best Time to Visit Indochina

The best time to visit Indochina is during the dry season, which runs from November to April. However, this is also peak tourist season, so expect higher prices and larger crowds. The rainy season runs from May to October, but this is also when the landscape is at its most lush, and the rainfall tends to be concentrated in short bursts.

Do’s and Don’ts of Indochina

Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when traveling in Indochina:

Do:

  • Learn some basic phrases in the local language.
  • Bring plenty of mosquito repellent.
  • Try street food, but make sure it’s freshly cooked.

Don’t:

  • Point your feet at someone.
  • Disrespect the local religion or customs.
  • Haggle too aggressively in markets or shops.

Safety and Health

The safety and health risks in Indochina are relatively low, but there are still some precautions to take:

Safety in Indochina

  • Always keep your valuables close to you and be aware of your surroundings.
  • Only use authorized taxis and transportation services.
  • Be cautious when crossing the street, especially in busy cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City.

Health in Indochina

  • Drink bottled or purified water and avoid ice in drinks.
  • Get vaccinated before traveling, especially for hepatitis A and B, typhoid, and rabies.
  • Beware of mosquitoes and take measures to avoid mosquito bites.

Getting to Indochina: Transportation Options and Logistics

Indochina is well-connected by air, and budget airlines like AirAsia and VietJet offer affordable flights between major cities. There are also plenty of trains, buses, and ferries that connect the countries of Indochina.

Airports Near Indochina

  • Noi Bai International Airport (Hanoi, Vietnam)
  • Luang Prabang International Airport (Luang Prabang, Laos)
  • Phnom Penh International Airport (Phnom Penh, Cambodia)

Bus Stations Near Indochina

  • Southern Bus Station (Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam)
  • Northern Bus Station (Luang Prabang, Laos)
  • Giant Ibis Bus Terminal (Siem Reap, Cambodia)

Other Options

  • Ferries from Vietnam to Cambodia
  • Trains from Bangkok to Laos

How to Get Around in Indochina

Getting around Indochina is relatively easy, and there are several transportation options available:

  • Taxis and motorbikes (in cities)
  • Buses and trains (between cities)
  • Boats and ferries (between islands)

Where to Go Next from Indochina: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Here are some nearby destinations and excursions that you may want to consider after visiting Indochina:

  • Myanmar (formerly Burma)
  • Thailand
  • Singapore
  • Hong Kong

Conclusion

Indochina is a fascinating region with a rich cultural heritage, stunning natural beauty, and a wide range of activities and attractions to suit any traveler. Whether you’re interested in history, adventure, food, or simply soaking up the local culture, Indochina has something for everyone. We hope this comprehensive Indochina travel guide has provided you with everything you need to plan your next Southeast Asian adventure. Happy travels!

Ha Long Bay, Vietnam Ha Long Bay, Vietnam