As an individual who has harbored ambitions of constructing a career based on globetrotting, I am constantly in search of opportunities to venture into diverse corners of the world. Consequently, embarking on a journey to the Southeast Asian nations of Vietnam and Cambodia alongside my comrades presented an unmissable prospect.
Throughout the years, the idea of an overseas escapade alongside friends has always occupied a place of prominence in my imagination. Fueling this longing to explore the globe were Indian cinema productions such as the captivating masterpiece ‘Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara’ which ardently advocated and encouraged the concept of embarking on grandiose vacations with friends.
In light of this, my companions and I resolved to embark on a backpacking expedition across Asia. As the individual in our circle who possessed the most extensive knowledge in the realm of travel, the onus of finalizing the destination for our adventure lay upon me.
Having already ventured to locales like Thailand and Indonesia, my inclinations leaned towards the prospect of exploring Vietnam and Cambodia. After consulting with my fellow travelers and taking into account the optimal time to visit Southeast Asia, we proceeded to book budget flights for our memorable journey through Vietnam and Cambodia.
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A Comprehensive Account of Our Thrifty Sojourn in Vietnam and Cambodia
Crafting an itinerary for this expedition proved to be quite a task, given the fact that our primary objective revolved around budget-friendly travel which would span a duration of two weeks.
Having previously embarked on low-cost international trips, I was well aware that it was indeed possible to strategize ways to minimize expenses while concurrently enjoying enriching encounters.
Expenditure: INR 49,000 per individual
Duration of Journey: 11 nights and 12 days
Destinations Explored: Ho Chi Minh, Phnom Penh, Koh Rong Islands, and Siem Reap
Inclusions: Flights, accommodation, visa costs, meals, transfers, and sightseeing
(Additional source: Shruthi Transforming Her Longstanding Fantasy Into Reality With an Unforgettable Familial Excursion to Cambodia and Vietnam)
Our 10 Nights 11 Days Journey through Vietnam and Cambodia
- Day 1: Departure from New Delhi to Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam – Check-in at a hostel – Exploring the sights of Ho Chi Minh
- Day 2: Morning meal – Full-day tour to the Cu Chi Tunnels and Cao Dai Temple – Return to Ho Chi Minh
- Day 3: Breakfast – Half-day exploration of Ho Chi Minh – Bus journey to Phnom Penh, Cambodia at 2 pm – Arrival in Phnom Penh at 9 pm
- Day 4: Breakfast – Full day of sightseeing in Phnom Penh – Return to the hostel
- Day 5: Breakfast – Check-out from Phnom Penh – Bus or shared cab to Sihanoukville – Ferry to Koh Rong at 1 pm – Check-in at Koh Rong
- Day 6: Breakfast – Relaxing day at Koh Rong
- Day 7: Breakfast – Boat transfer to Koh Rong Samloem – Leisure day
- Day 8: Breakfast – Free time to unwind at Koh Rong Samloem
- Day 9: Breakfast – Ferry back to Sihanoukville – Bus or private cab to Siem Reap – Check-in at Siem Reap by 9 pm
- Day 10: Breakfast – Full-day exploration of Angkor Wat – Return to the hostel
- Day 11: Breakfast – Half-day sightseeing in Siem Reap – Leisure day
- Day 12: Check-out from Siem Reap – Transfer to the airport – Flight to New Delhi
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For an engaging and adventurous journey through Vietnam and Cambodia, our first destination was the vibrant city of Ho Chi Minh. We arrived in Vietnam bright and early at 10 am and promptly settled into Flipside Hostel, our chosen accommodation.
One of the highlights of traveling in Southeast Asia is the abundance of affordable and well-maintained places to stay for budget-conscious travelers. Throughout our 11-night and 12-day Vietnam Cambodia trip, we typically spent INR 600 per person per day, which included a delicious breakfast and access to WiFi.
Now, let’s delve into the top three remarkable places we visited in Vietnam.
1. The Remarkable Cu Chi Tunnels
On the second day of our journey, we embarked on an eye-opening tour of the Cu Chi Tunnels. Situated 60 kilometers north of Ho Chi Minh City, these underground tunnels stretching 250 kilometers were ingeniously crafted by brave Vietnamese citizens during their resistance against the United States. The experience was truly awe-inspiring.
Entry fees for this incredible attraction were INR 350 per person.
2. The Captivating Cao Dai Temple in Tay Ninh
Continuing our adventure, we made our way to Tay Ninh City to explore the mesmerizing Cao Dai Temple. This temple holds immense significance as it marks the birthplace of the Caodaism religion. Inside, we were captivated by breathtaking artwork adorned with vibrant colors and intricate designs.
To fully immerse ourselves in the wonders of both the Cu Chi Tunnels and the Cao Dai Temple, we opted for a sightseeing tour at the affordable price of INR 600 per person.
3. The Impactful War Remnants Museum in Ho Chi Minh
The following day, after a nourishing breakfast, we ventured to the War Remnants Museum in Ho Chi Minh City. This thought-provoking museum showcases remnants and artifacts from Vietnam’s historic battles against the United States and France. It served as a chilling reminder of the hardships and suffering endured by innocent individuals.
To explore this powerful museum, no entry fee was required.
By uncovering these extraordinary destinations, we were able to fully immerse ourselves in the beauty, history, and culture of Vietnam. So, join us on this incredible adventure and discover the best places to visit during your trip to Vietnam and Cambodia.
Admission cost: INR 150 per individual
Cautionary Notes!!
The accounts of splendid journeys to Vietnam and Cambodia may sound impeccable. However, there are specific aspects that necessitate careful consideration in order to ensure a remarkable vacation experience in Vietnam.
1. Unpredictable Traffic!
When an individual from India asserts that the traffic is too disorderly, it is imperative to pay attention! Vietnam boasts the highest proportion of motorcyclists per person worldwide. Crossing the roads should be executed with utmost caution, for you are perpetually at imminent risk of encountering a swiftly moving scooter.
2. Reveling in Pub Hopping
The more, the merrier. We had the utmost pleasure of indulging in Vietnam’s nightlife by participating in hostel-organized pub crawls. In addition to the privilege of celebrating alongside approximately 20 fellow travelers, we also enjoyed complimentary shots and waived entrance fees at every bar we visited.
3. It’s Pho! Not Pad Thai
Occasionally, our limited familiarity with Asian cuisine can lead to embarrassing situations. A similar occurrence transpired when one of our group mistook Pho noodles (a traditional Vietnamese dish) for Pad Thai (Thai noodles), resulting in an unpleasant gastronomic encounter.
Cambodia: An Exquisite Nation with a Rich Past
After our visit to the War Remnants Museum, we prepared our belongings and departed from the hostel in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, ready for our bus journey to Phnom Penh, the capital city of Cambodia. We reached Phnom Penh at 10 pm and immediately settled into our chosen accommodation.
I was eagerly anticipating this part of our adventure, as it included exploring various temples, beaches, and culturally vibrant cities during our affordable trip to Vietnam.
Take a look at this exciting travelogue about a romantic journey that truly immerses you in Vietnam’s scenic beauty.
3.1 Killing Fields, Choeung Ek
The following day, we embarked on a tour to witness the haunting Killing Fields of Choeung Ek. This site served as a mass grave during the 1970s, when the Cambodian government committed acts of genocide. Over 8,000 individuals were brutally executed here during the civil war, resulting in the loss of more than a million innocent lives.
Please note: Entry fees for this somber visit amount to INR 390 per person.
Discover how to plan and execute an incredibly low-budget solo trip to Vietnam and Cambodia.
3.2 Koh Rong Islands (Koh Rong and Koh Rong Samloem)
After bidding farewell to Phnom Penh, we arranged for a taxi to take us to the charming town of Sihanoukville, followed by a ferry ride to the enchanting islands of Koh Rong and Koh Rong Samloem. We indulged in a delightful stay spanning four nights, reveling in the islands’ breathtaking scenery – pristine white sands and crystal-clear azure waters. These hidden gems have remained relatively untouched by mass tourism, providing a serene escape into nature’s embrace.
3.3 Angkor Wat, Siem Reap
During our budget-friendly expedition of Vietnam and Cambodia, we had saved the best for last – the awe-inspiring Angkor Wat in Siem Reap. Similar to finally witnessing the majestic Taj Mahal in India, Angkor Wat holds the top spot in Cambodia’s must-visit destinations. On the tenth day of our journey, we decided to rent motorbikes to explore the vast Angkor Wat Temple complex, which stretches across a staggering 400 acres and boasts over 70 captivating temples to discover.
Entry fees: The cost of entry is INR 2,400 per person.
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Be Aware! Important Things to Consider!!
During our visit to Cambodia, it became evident that tourism plays a significant role in their economy. As travelers, we discovered a few important points to keep in mind when traveling in Cambodia.
1. Astonishingly Pricey Angkor Wat
Many history enthusiasts, including us, were taken aback by the expensive entry fee of 37 USD for a single day at Angkor Wat. Ideally, it requires 2-3 days to thoroughly explore the entire temple complex. It would be wiser to purchase a two-day pass for 62 USD instead.
2. Exceptional Burgers!
For some unknown reason, the burgers we had during our trip were unbelievably delicious. Whether it was the fried chicken or the sauces, the Khmer people truly know how to create mouthwatering fast food.
3. Koh Rong Samloem: A Hidden Paradise
Many popular tropical beaches around the world quickly become commercialized. However, we stumbled upon the small and pristine island of Koh Rong Samloem, which was a perfect oasis for beach lovers without the overwhelming commercialization.
Over the past 12 days, my friends and I were fortunate enough to explore breathtaking places that are both different from our own culture and yet share similar roots in terms of historical beginnings. The people we encountered in Cambodia and Vietnam were welcoming, helpful, and full of vibrancy.
Personally, I am proud of how efficiently we managed our trip within our budget without compromising on the fun and adventure that a budget trip to Vietnam and Cambodia can offer.
Highlights of Our Budget Trip to Vietnam and Cambodia
- The remarkable network of Cu Chi Tunnels left me in awe of the determination and resilience of the Vietnamese people.
- I fell in love with the stunning Koh Rong islands and hope to return someday.
- The intricate architecture and breathtaking beauty of Angkor Wat did not go unnoticed.
Important Tips for Budget Travelers in Vietnam and Cambodia
- In terms of accommodation and food, I found Vietnam and Cambodia to be some of the most affordable destinations. However, I kept a few things in mind to ensure that my expenses remained within my planned budget.
- Book your flights at least 3 months in advance. Air Asia is a cost-effective low-cost carrier that offers flights to numerous destinations across Asia.
- For budget travelers, hostels provide the best accommodation option. You can easily find comfortable rooms starting from just INR 300 per night, including breakfast.
- Always take advantage of the freebies offered by hostels and hotels, such as maps, coupons, or bicycle rentals.
- Explore the backpacking districts/streets, as they often have excellent restaurants that offer delicious local food at reasonable prices.
- Renting a motorbike in Vietnam and Cambodia is a cheap and efficient way of traveling within and between cities.
- Opt for sharing a cab with fellow travelers for full-day sightseeing tours. It will help save on transportation expenses.
- Keep an eye out for happy hours at restaurants and pubs. Some establishments offer significant discounts of up to 70-80% on alcoholic beverages.
- When traveling between Vietnam and Cambodia, consider taking a bus instead of a flight. Crossing borders by road is hassle-free in these countries.
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South East Asia offers countless hidden treasures. Book your Cambodia and Vietnam tour package and embark on an adventurous journey on a budget!
Commonly Asked Questions About Traveling to Vietnam and Cambodia
How can I travel from Vietnam to Cambodia?
The easiest way to reach Cambodia is by taking a bus from Ho Chi Minh City to Phnom Penh, which is approximately a 6.5-hour journey.
Do I need a visa for Vietnam?
Travelers from countries like Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia, Cambodia, and Laos do not require a visa for a stay of up to 30 days. However, Indian citizens need a visa to enter Vietnam.
Is Cambodia a safe country?
Generally, Cambodia is considered a safe country. However, it is advisable to exercise caution in Phnom Penh, especially at night. While violent crimes are rare, petty crimes like theft and snatching are more common.
What vaccinations are recommended for travel to Vietnam?
For short-term travelers, it is highly recommended to have vaccinations such as Tetanus, Diptheria, Measles, Mumps, and Rubella.
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