Beat the winter blues in South East Asia | Vietnam & Cambodia

South East Asia is a tropical jumble of steamy jungles, chaotic cities, rural villages and sun-kissed beaches. It’s little wonder that this region is so popular with travellers looking for a good healthy dose of winter sunshine with a twist.

Take Vietnam for instance, slithered on the border of Cambodia and Laos, its a country of natural beauty that can be explored from top to tail- or vice versa! From tumbling rice paddies and emerald bays in the north, to aromatic street food and palm fringed islands in the south, it’s the ideal destination to escape the dreary winter months, and with great flight prices for November travel, there’s no better time to start planning!

Hop over the border and you’re in Cambodia, Vietnam’s friendly next door neighbour. With harrowing history, unrivaled ruins and plenty of warm welcomes, Cambodia might be small but it packs a punch. What’s more, the mighty Mekong River offers an authentic gateway into Vietnam; perfect for a mix-and-match itinerary.

Try scooting through Saigon | Vietnam

Fancy dining with a difference? Our evening street food Vespa tour lets you explore Saigon like a local as you scoot around the bustling streets with your guide on the back of a vintage Vespa, in search of hidden foodie hotspots. Weave through the maze of winding streets, meet the local street food vendors and sample tasty delights along the way! What better way to escape winter for a real taste of the tropics.

Handy Vietnam hints from our Rickshaw Ramblers:

• The Museum of Traditional Medicine in HCMC is very worthwhile – they introduced the museum with a good English language video and then took us round with a English speaking guide.
• Don’t be scared to try eating from the roadside cafes.
• Take the time to learn a few basic Vietnamese words/phrases. The people really appreciate being welcomed and thanked in their own language.
• When you see a local looking at you, his or her face may appear stern. Smile at them and watch their faces light up with friendliness.

Take time out on the beach | Cambodia

With the rainy season dwindling, winter in Cambodia can only mean one thing; sun, sun and more sun! In between marveling at ancient ruins and exploring picturesque rural villages, why not spend a few days of your winter break relaxing on tropical beaches that surround Kep and Sihanoukville.

Handy Cambodia hints from our Rickshaw Ramblers:

• Pack light, buy stylish, inexpensive clothing for hot weather when you get there.
• Bring lots of American one-dollar bills for Cambodia, that’s about all they use.
• If travelling up the Mekong pack an overnight bag rather than dragging your suitcase to the hotel.