SikeMo
longtail driver
Posts: 5

#1 Posted: 13/8/2008 - 03:53


Hello,

I am planning a Vietnam/Cambodia trip for October-November and was wondering what the general consensus was on travel within the countries. We are starting in Ha Noi and then continuing on to the Hue area, Ho Chi Minh, and then to Phnom Penh. Is it generally better to take overnight trains or book flights? Should I book in advance or wait until we get there?

Thanks!

somtam2000
admin
mahout
Posts: 2968

Located in:
Indonesia

#2 Posted: 13/8/2008 - 07:20


It depends on how much time you have. If you're looking at a short trip in Vietnam, then look at flying from Hanoi south, but otherwise train gets my vote. It's comfortable, interesting, affordable and a great way to see the country.

SikeMo
longtail driver
Posts: 5

#3 Posted: 13/8/2008 - 07:52


We will be there 14 days. Should we book trains beforehand or do it there? Are the rates typically the same? Also, which company do you recommend?

Thanks!

jimsparadise
motodop
Posts: 30

#4 Posted: 13/8/2008 - 17:44


Discount airlines--Pacific Air flys domestic Vietnam routes--don't miss Phu Quoc island in the far south. Can bus easily to Cambodia--visa at border, and see the big 3, Phnom Penh, Sihanoukville (beaches), and Siem Reap (Angkor Wat temples). There, buses are fast and easy--just book prior day at any guesthouse.

mikeinconejo
newbie
Posts: 2

#5 Posted: 30/8/2008 - 10:29


"Can bus easily to Cambodia--visa at border, and see the big 3, Phnom Penh, Sihanoukville (beaches), and Siem Reap (Angkor Wat temples). There, buses are fast and easy--just book prior day at any guesthouse."

This is what I would like to do. I will be flying from Manila to HCMC around the end of November. Staying there a week or so before heading to Bangkok. But I want to travel overland to get there.

I have looked all over the internet but can't find information about the buses to the trip. Can you point me in the right direction?

By the way, I am not a backpacker, 1 small suitcase and a backpack, and I have never stayed at a guesthouse. But I am on a budget, retired, stay at 2/3 star places, and plan on being on the road for a couple of months.

Thanks,

Mike

somtam2000
admin
mahout
Posts: 2968

Located in:
Indonesia

#6 Posted: 1/9/2008 - 07:20


Hi Mike,

Direct buses run from Saigon to Phnom Penh -- the trip takes between six hours and the best part of a day, depending on delays at the border crossing. Cost varies depending on the operator, anywhere from $8-$20.

mikeinconejo
newbie
Posts: 2

#7 Posted: 4/9/2008 - 04:22


Thanks for the reply.
Actually I guess I asked to soon and I should have just read more around this great site.

My trip is coming together now.

Mike

SikeMo
longtail driver
Posts: 5

#8 Posted: 4/9/2008 - 12:08


Can anyone explain why the airfare is so expensive in this part of the world? A flight from Hanoi to Siem Reap is $270 USD. Is there some travel website that people use to get a better rate? Do people wait until they get to the country first?

rdavout
backpacker
Posts: 14

#9 Posted: 14/9/2008 - 01:13


That's a fairly basic pricing strategy: only tourists find any interest in a Hanoi to Siem Reap flight, and tourists are usually rich Westerners... Some airfares can be way cheaper. All the same, please put the environment in the equation when you plan your trips.

Cheers