Maraberto

I will be in Phenon Penh for 3 weeks teaching English as a volunteer in January. After that, I would like to visit Vietnam. What is the best way to get there transportation wise? can I go via land? or should I get a flight? should I book the flight in advance? will the price go up exponentially if I book last minute?

Also please, on the money front, I understand I can get cash out of ATM machines, but banks charge quite a bit for each transaction. If I am to bring some cash with me, would that be risky? should I be worried about being robbed?

Clothes wise: any recommendations? skirts have to be of a certain lenght? can I be casual everywhere?

Thanks so much!!

crellston

Fliying is obviously the quickest and most expensive (but least interesting) way to go. It is easy by boat and bus (or combination). I prefer the boat journey - I think the main player is Mekong Express. You will be able to book tickets through most guesthouses & agents in PP. For more detailed & current info see http://www.talesofasia.com/ and www.travelfisfh.org

Carrying cash is no more or less risky than most other places around the world. Just take the usual sensible precautions. ATMs are all around these days and are comparatively reliable but remember to advise your bank of the countries and dates you will be travelling otherwise they may block withdrawals.

Casual dress is perfectly acceptbale just about everywhere in teh two countries although it would be polite to cover up when visiting some of the religious sights. Take light cotton clothes or equivalent. Clothing is VERY cheap in the markets so you could byuy all you need there. The Russian and central markets in PP are good for clothes as is Ben Thanh mkt in HCMC.

novir

crellston has covered most issues well. My son resides in Saigon and travels frequently to/from PP always by bus. Travel agents will advise you in PP.
You should arrange a visa for Vietnam before setting off though. Check their government website to determine their requirements. Cambodia allows you to buy visas on arrival but not so Vietnam.

Maraberto

Thank you both for your responses!!

Rasheeed

Bus transit between PP and HCMC is easy, cheap and fast. Guesthouses in either places can sort that for ya.

'sheeed

Travel2see

Phnom Penh to Saigon 2006 trip. Hotel in Phnom Penh sold bus ticket and arranged for morning pick up transport to Bus station. Then On nice bus with snacks, water etc included and a roadside stop on the way. Boader crossing required removal of luggage from bus then passing thu entry customs and Visa check. No problem. Then on to Saigon. Nice trip.