Indochina (Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia) on a Motorbike: 10 things to know

One of the selling points of travelling Indochina region of Southeast Asia is that majority of the destinations are reachable by land; No need to pre-book airline tickets except that you'll have to endure Loooonnnggggg hours seating in the buses.

As I entered cambodia during my #LimbonisASIA trip, I've read that it is possible to cross the 3 countries, Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia using a vietnamese motorbike. Back in my country Philippines, I rode a motorbike from Manila to Bicol (and how I wished I had the time to do it all the way to the south), and enjoyed it a lot. There is the freedom to stop at any point, as frequent as preferred, and as slow or fast as necessary. Thus, I decided to buy my own, a Honda Dream, and drove into these 3 countries.

Here are my advice:

1. Be smart in buying the bike.  If possible, start your trip from North Vietnam, Hanoi, where bikes are cheaper compared to the South (Saigon). You may either check craiglist, or expatblog, or check postings from bulletins of guesthouses or street posts, or better yet, get to a garage. Garage prices in Hanoi are $200 up. Purchases normally include a Helmet, Rack, and in cases raincoat, lock and spare keys. 

You may opt for the manual or semi automatic or fully automatic; Manual bikes tend to be heavier, and you have to factor in that you can control the weight of your bike. Likewise, automatic bikes tend to consume more fuel but are great for uphill/ascend. As for the brand, I suppose Honda are the best are parts are available everywhere.

2. Ensure you get proper documents. A deed of Sale (Document shall say Ban Xe) and a blue card.

In crossing countries, the decorum is to get through the customs office of the borders, and get a Exit paper and Temporary Import Document (showing that you legally took it in and out of the countries; In Vietnam it shall be a green paper costing $10); However, Vietnam immigration normally just need to see the plate to let you in.

For Cambodia and Laos, procedure are a little different.

In Laos, I’ve tried asking for the temporary import document (Nameo border) but was asked to just go. Later, I was stopped by Laos police, asking for document, but I told them I wasn’t given anything though I asked. After a call to, I suppose the police head, I was left free.

In Cambodia, all of what I read, and all the other travellers I met didn’t even bother ask, and did not have any problem, so did as advised. I think the idea is that the bike is assumed to be going back to Vietnam anyway in a quick time since user is only on travel.

Ban Xe or deed of Sale for buying a Motorbike in Vietnam

Vietnamese Blue Card for Motorbike

Customs Documentation for Exporting Motorbike in Vietnam

backside of Customs Documentation for Exporting Motorbike in Vietnam

3. Always wear your helmet, not just that it may be grounds for policeman calling your attention, but also for your safety .

4 . In Vietnam, speed limit is only up to 40kph in any highway, but this is impossibly slow when you’re moving from city to city. Speed up if necessary but not compromise your safety;  Take note as well that sometimes, no matter if its an asian highway, buffalos, cows, and even ducks may sudddenly cross the road; Reserve some anticipation. Slow down if you see a police; If they stop you, show them passport. No need to escape them away just like the locals.

5. Lights on during daylight is illegal in Cambodia. Any road violation though in this country shall not cost more than $2 though. Never fall into paying more than that in case they accuse you of anything.

6. Tollways are free for motorbikes; Take the rightmost lane and pass safely. Highway’s rightmost lanes are intended for bikes, and tend to be favourable as they are smooth. You may have to go in and out though as some bicycles and even motorbikes (lazy to cross to the other, proper lane on the other side of the ride) coming from the other way may also drive on this lane.



At the inner lanes, 

especially on the Asian highway used by delivery trucks and buses, potholes come in surprise. Buses, Trucks and any other private vehicle would take your lane, and wont care about you.  Nothing beats being attentive and never compromise on your right of way.

Avoid asian highway. The ho chi minh road is much smoother and no traffic, except that it may be a little far off from the cities. Then again, in north vietnam, you'd rather drive here and then into the cities, rather than endure the traffic, dust, and rough surface of the asian highway. It may be extra kilometres, but sure saves you time.

en route to Nameo border

7. Fuel is available almost everywhere, even in Laos, although keeping a liter extra is not inconvenient. Opt for 95 rating gas if available; The price difference to the regular one is almost nil, and will save you a lot of time in fuelling up, providing more speed and power.  Exhaust systems may be very hot by the time you fuel up, so make sure to keep your luggage away in case you have to take them off the bike to reach the tank mouth to avoid molting your luggage

my bag's strap molten by the exhaust system of the bike

8. Tie your bags very well and secure passports. You would not want to arrive without one of your luggage especially that with your passport and atms. This has happened to us, luckily, the local guy who picked it up was honest enough to pick up our call to hand over the bag.

at the house of the Vietnamese guy who picked up my travel mate's bag

Don't leave the blue card in the bike as in the unlikely event that it get stolen, this will mean they can legally own it. Always put the chain lock on the tires especially if leaving in unattended areas. One guy I met in North Vietnam parked his bike in front of the hostel in the Old Quarter in Hanoi, and lost his bike, just the day before he's supposed to sell it, 

9. No need to bring lonely planet. Wikitavel or Travelfish shall be enough. You have a bike, which gives you the added advantage of being able to explore. Also, When locals say its far, its a walk away. There will also be some cases where locals will hitchhike . 

10. In Lao, distance between cities may be far apart, so expect to drive morning til late. There may also be no restaurant along the way, so prep up for a little snack. Also, the fuel stations aren't as convenient as in Vietnam; it won't hurt to keep a liter or even just half (in a small bottle) just in case. Much of Laos is still jungle.

this is where i put my bottle, although later, i changed this to rather smaller 1 liter bottle

Average Charge/Prices of Sample Expenses:

Change Oil: $2-4

Tire Plaster/Repair: $0.5-$1

Parking: $0.25

Tyre - $5-7

Side Mirror - $2.50

Rear wheel hub – $11

Light Bulb - $1.00

Crossing Ferry to Catba Island: 2 x $1.00

Ferry Crossing in Mekong River to Phnom Penh: $0.25

One of the selling points of travelling Indochina region of Southeast Asia is that majority of the destinations are reachable by land; No need to pre-book airline tickets except that you'll have to endure Loooonnnggggg hours seating in the buses.

As I entered cambodia during my #LimbonisASIA trip, I've read that it is possible to cross the 3 countries, Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia using a vietnamese motorbike. Back in my country Philippines, I rode a motorbike from Manila to Bicol (and how I wished I had the time to do it all the way to the south), and enjoyed it a lot. There is the freedom to stop at any point, as frequent as preferred, and as slow or fast as necessary. Thus, I decided to buy my own, a Honda Dream, and drove into these 3 countries.

Here are my advice:

1. Be smart in buying the bike.  If possible, start your trip from North Vietnam, Hanoi, where bikes are cheaper compared to the South (Saigon). You may either check craiglist, or expatblog, or check postings from bulletins of guesthouses or street posts, or better yet, get to a garage. Garage prices in Hanoi are $200 up. Purchases normally include a Helmet, Rack, and in cases raincoat, lock and spare keys. 

You may opt for the manual or semi automatic or fully automatic; Manual bikes tend to be heavier, and you have to factor in that you can control the weight of your bike. Likewise, automatic bikes tend to consume more fuel but are great for uphill/ascend. As for the brand, I suppose Honda are the best are parts are available everywhere.

2. Ensure you get proper documents. A deed of Sale (Document shall say Ban Xe) and a blue card.

In crossing countries, the decorum is to get through the customs office of the borders, and get a Exit paper and Temporary Import Document (showing that you legally took it in and out of the countries; In Vietnam it shall be a green paper costing $10); However, Vietnam immigration normally just need to see the plate to let you in.

For Cambodia and Laos, procedure are a little different.

In Laos, I’ve tried asking for the temporary import document (Nameo border) but was asked to just go. Later, I was stopped by Laos police, asking for document, but I told them I wasn’t given anything though I asked. After a call to, I suppose the police head, I was left free.

In Cambodia, all of what I read, and all the other travellers I met didn’t even bother ask, and did not have any problem, so did as advised. I think the idea is that the bike is assumed to be going back to Vietnam anyway in a quick time since user is only on travel.

Ban Xe or deed of Sale for buying a Motorbike in Vietnam

Vietnamese Blue Card for Motorbike

Customs Documentation for Exporting Motorbike in Vietnam

backside of Customs Documentation for Exporting Motorbike in Vietnam

3. Always wear your helmet, not just that it may be grounds for policeman calling your attention, but also for your safety .

4 . In Vietnam, speed limit is only up to 40kph in any highway, but this is impossibly slow when you’re moving from city to city. Speed up if necessary but not compromise your safety;  Take note as well that sometimes, no matter if its an asian highway, buffalos, cows, and even ducks may sudddenly cross the road; Reserve some anticipation. Slow down if you see a police; If they stop you, show them passport. No need to escape them away just like the locals.

5. Lights on during daylight is illegal in Cambodia. Any road violation though in this country shall not cost more than $2 though. Never fall into paying more than that in case they accuse you of anything.

6. Tollways are free for motorbikes; Take the rightmost lane and pass safely. Highway’s rightmost lanes are intended for bikes, and tend to be favourable as they are smooth. You may have to go in and out though as some bicycles and even motorbikes (lazy to cross to the other, proper lane on the other side of the ride) coming from the other way may also drive on this lane.



At the inner lanes, 

especially on the Asian highway used by delivery trucks and buses, potholes come in surprise. Buses, Trucks and any other private vehicle would take your lane, and wont care about you.  Nothing beats being attentive and never compromise on your right of way.

Avoid asian highway. The ho chi minh road is much smoother and no traffic, except that it may be a little far off from the cities. Then again, in north vietnam, you'd rather drive here and then into the cities, rather than endure the traffic, dust, and rough surface of the asian highway. It may be extra kilometres, but sure saves you time.

en route to Nameo border

7. Fuel is available almost everywhere, even in Laos, although keeping a liter extra is not inconvenient. Opt for 95 rating gas if available; The price difference to the regular one is almost nil, and will save you a lot of time in fuelling up, providing more speed and power.  Exhaust systems may be very hot by the time you fuel up, so make sure to keep your luggage away in case you have to take them off the bike to reach the tank mouth to avoid molting your luggage

my bag's strap molten by the exhaust system of the bike

8. Tie your bags very well and secure passports. You would not want to arrive without one of your luggage especially that with your passport and atms. This has happened to us, luckily, the local guy who picked it up was honest enough to pick up our call to hand over the bag.

at the house of the Vietnamese guy who picked up my travel mate's bag

Don't leave the blue card in the bike as in the unlikely event that it get stolen, this will mean they can legally own it. Always put the chain lock on the tires especially if leaving in unattended areas. One guy I met in North Vietnam parked his bike in front of the hostel in the Old Quarter in Hanoi, and lost his bike, just the day before he's supposed to sell it, 

9. No need to bring lonely planet. Wikitavel or Travelfish shall be enough. You have a bike, which gives you the added advantage of being able to explore. Also, When locals say its far, its a walk away. There will also be some cases where locals will hitchhike . 

10. In Lao, distance between cities may be far apart, so expect to drive morning til late. There may also be no restaurant along the way, so prep up for a little snack. Also, the fuel stations aren't as convenient as in Vietnam; it won't hurt to keep a liter or even just half (in a small bottle) just in case. Much of Laos is still jungle.

this is where i put my bottle, although later, i changed this to rather smaller 1 liter bottle

Average Charge/Prices of Sample Expenses:

Change Oil: $2-4

Tire Plaster/Repair: $0.5-$1

Parking: $0.25

Tyre - $5-7

Side Mirror - $2.50

Rear wheel hub – $11

Light Bulb - $1.00

Crossing Ferry to Catba Island: 2 x $1.00

Ferry Crossing in Mekong River to Phnom Penh: $0.25

Read More »

Visa Run cum Border Tour

One more hour to go before the Police office resumes work. I went back to the guesthouse to lay my back a bit.

It's the Motorbike; I got a very cheap offer from a garage back in Hanoi for a Honda Dream bike for around 152 dollars, and I thought I can drive around Vietnam for, not just the north, but including the central region (since i've already done south vietnam in my first visit 2 months back).

With only 6 nights, 7 days left in my Visa, From Hanoi, we thought about going Northwards, as I see, there have been border crossings where traveller did not need to cross to the other country (this case China which I don't have and require a visa). I've also checked with some travel agencies and  said I can do it, though I am kind of hesitant. But I thought it was worth trying as if it works, we are that close to the Ban Gioc Waterfall in Cao Bang (said to be Vietnam's biggest).

It took us a full day to drive to Haiphong, so we thought about staying there for a night; 5 nights to go.

The next day, we drove into Catba Island. Catba was very nice to chill out as accomodation was cheap and was fronting the sea, but inasmuch as we'd like to hang out further, I had to move. (One full day) 2 nights spent in CatBa island, and then we moved further. 3 nights to go.

From Catba, we drove into Halong and spent a night in Halong Bay at a traveller friend's place. 2 nights to go. 

From Halong, i was very hesitant of whether it will work or not. I was thinking about just doing it the sure way (Vietnam-Laos border) but it was too far away; about 600kms. Mon Cai border is just 160kms away so i thought it was worth the risk. What I was thinking then was, in case it don't work in Mon Cai, I'd take the night bus to hanoi, and from hanoi, drive it to the Lao Border.

It was an endless driving on a green and diverse landscape; We couldn't even take pictures as I was trying to make it to the border cut off time; otherwise, there would have been no point and the rushing is of no use.

We made it 15 mins before 5pm at the Mon Cai border (Lonely planet says this border closes 7pm though); Unfortunately, without a visa for china, they said they can't let me out. They were offering to extend my visa right there for $45 but I have a feeling, it's not an "official" process (bribe). I did not bother. I would have been OK with it, if it'll go to the vietnam government, but if only to the pockets of a one or few, i'd rather not.

I was so frustrated, but there was no choice nor a time to whine. I've called up other travel agencies, and was told it shall be possible. There was so little time and too much risk. The other problem that wrecks my mind is that i got into a blog about a guy overstaying for 2 days and had to pay more than $100 for an issue caused by an immigration officer (stamping 28 days instead of supposed 30days). Then we thought about taking the risk at Lang Son; we assumed, at worst case, i'll pay the $45 charge/request.

Second day of full day driving at speeds we would not really be doing; The road to Lang Son won't even let us run more than 30kms per hour. Unfortunately, I was refused again in the Lang Son border. Then again, the immigration officer there advised me to go to a Police station and request an extension; This is the first time I've heard of police being able to do extensions of visas, but, it's the immigration who advised, so I thought there must be some truth to it.

It was already turning late at night, and at some point, I ran out of gasoline too. My meter shows half full, but apparently, it broke, and at a location of speeding trucks and no lights but of passing vehicles and the full moon above. My travel pal julie had to get gas for me, and I had to hang on.

A little while later, she came and drove to the Police Station. With the help of a Couchsurfing guy Leo in Haiphong who translated what I needed, the Police advised me to take a rest for the night, and come back the next day for a fix.

The next day, I came back, and was asked to go to Immigration. A motor taxi dropped me there, and there was a lady who spoke a bit of English.

After some explaining, unfortunately, the answer was, I have to drive to the Lao Border. I called up the Police officer, and was told to come back to the Police station at 2pm.

I came to the Police station ahead of time. After waiting for about 30 mins and no sign of the Police I'm supposed to meet, I sent him an SMS; Minutes later, he replied saying he's coming.

We drove onto the immigration office. After parking, the Police called up someone, and later had the other police speak to me. I was told the same thing this morning. It has gotten more frustrating, just when i'm so pressed with time, I did not know why i had to wait until 2pm, and drive to the immigration (and not even walk onto the office). Whatever transpired, I think could have done right then and there in the morning.

Again, whining won't help. I asked julie to pack up real quick and we're driving to Hanoi.

From Lang Son, it was 160kms to Hanoi, and because of the the highway, gladly it took us only less than 3 hours to drive it. 

I was initially thinking of driving it further, but i thought, the more I rush, the more frustrating it becomes. I told myself, money is nothing compared to what I have been putting myself into.

The following day, we drove early onto the Na Meo border. it's 255kms away from Hanoi. The road was not as great as that of Lang Son-Hanoi; Half of what we've driven was also highland. By 5:30pm, we were in Mau Chai Village, and I decided to call the day there. It's about 130kms to go, and with the terrain, it's not so safe to drive at night.

Leaving Mau Chai for the Na Meo border

I woke up the next day earlier than usual; It's my second day of overstay, and I am preparing myself for, maybe, a series of questioning on the border.

I started driving at around 9:30. It was an even worse road, I would every so often look at my maps if i'm in the right direction. The route goes into smaller and even more remote villages, much of which is unpaved, and muddy. I would get so worried on how bad it can get further, and if it may be a good idea to turn back, and reroute while early. Then again, just thinking of how long i've driven so far, I just went forward. 

It took me 13 hours to get to the border, arriving at around 5:30. At around 4:30, I was driving a little bit recklessly already just to make it on time. I was on self pity, for having to endure all these, in these past days, just for the sake of a stamp.

the road to the Na Meo Border between Vietnam and Laos

the road to the Na Meo Border between Vietnam and Laos

the road to the Na Meo Border between Vietnam and Laos

upon stopping at his store, this old man saw me quite dusty and took a rag and shook it off. Would not even give me the rag to do it myself

the road to the Na Meo Border between Vietnam and Laos

the road to the Na Meo Border between Vietnam and Laos

the road to the Na Meo Border between Vietnam and Laos

I parked the bike, and asked for the passport control. The room seems empty, seemingly closed. 

Then, somebody walked in. i explained, I badly need to get the exit stamp; The immigration officer asked for my passport.

I have told him ahead I am on overstay for 2 days, but it dont seem like he understands. My phone is drained, I plugged it onto my power bank.

Immigration officer looked at the stamp, and was shaking his head upon seeing the expiry date of the visa. I was pointing to my phone, while saying, I'll call my friend to explain.

I went out to get a cigarette while waiting for my phone to come up; Meanwhile, immigration officer walks out of the office and took his phone to, i suppose, talk to his superior.

Right on time, the phone came up, and I quickly dialled Leo's phone, and told him about the situation. Immigration officer meanwhile walks right back in and calls me; He was ready to stamp my passport, and I passed the phone to him. After talking to Leo, he proceeded to stamping. No other words were utterred, while i repeatedly said "thank you, cam on, thank you"

No fines, no other questions, no forms, no ban. Thank Goodness it's done.


This post is part of the #limbonisASIA trip. See link for more stories, detailed expenses and itinerary

One more hour to go before the Police office resumes work. I went back to the guesthouse to lay my back a bit.

It's the Motorbike; I got a very cheap offer from a garage back in Hanoi for a Honda Dream bike for around 152 dollars, and I thought I can drive around Vietnam for, not just the north, but including the central region (since i've already done south vietnam in my first visit 2 months back).

With only 6 nights, 7 days left in my Visa, From Hanoi, we thought about going Northwards, as I see, there have been border crossings where traveller did not need to cross to the other country (this case China which I don't have and require a visa). I've also checked with some travel agencies and  said I can do it, though I am kind of hesitant. But I thought it was worth trying as if it works, we are that close to the Ban Gioc Waterfall in Cao Bang (said to be Vietnam's biggest).

It took us a full day to drive to Haiphong, so we thought about staying there for a night; 5 nights to go.

The next day, we drove into Catba Island. Catba was very nice to chill out as accomodation was cheap and was fronting the sea, but inasmuch as we'd like to hang out further, I had to move. (One full day) 2 nights spent in CatBa island, and then we moved further. 3 nights to go.

From Catba, we drove into Halong and spent a night in Halong Bay at a traveller friend's place. 2 nights to go. 

From Halong, i was very hesitant of whether it will work or not. I was thinking about just doing it the sure way (Vietnam-Laos border) but it was too far away; about 600kms. Mon Cai border is just 160kms away so i thought it was worth the risk. What I was thinking then was, in case it don't work in Mon Cai, I'd take the night bus to hanoi, and from hanoi, drive it to the Lao Border.

It was an endless driving on a green and diverse landscape; We couldn't even take pictures as I was trying to make it to the border cut off time; otherwise, there would have been no point and the rushing is of no use.

We made it 15 mins before 5pm at the Mon Cai border (Lonely planet says this border closes 7pm though); Unfortunately, without a visa for china, they said they can't let me out. They were offering to extend my visa right there for $45 but I have a feeling, it's not an "official" process (bribe). I did not bother. I would have been OK with it, if it'll go to the vietnam government, but if only to the pockets of a one or few, i'd rather not.

I was so frustrated, but there was no choice nor a time to whine. I've called up other travel agencies, and was told it shall be possible. There was so little time and too much risk. The other problem that wrecks my mind is that i got into a blog about a guy overstaying for 2 days and had to pay more than $100 for an issue caused by an immigration officer (stamping 28 days instead of supposed 30days). Then we thought about taking the risk at Lang Son; we assumed, at worst case, i'll pay the $45 charge/request.

Second day of full day driving at speeds we would not really be doing; The road to Lang Son won't even let us run more than 30kms per hour. Unfortunately, I was refused again in the Lang Son border. Then again, the immigration officer there advised me to go to a Police station and request an extension; This is the first time I've heard of police being able to do extensions of visas, but, it's the immigration who advised, so I thought there must be some truth to it.

It was already turning late at night, and at some point, I ran out of gasoline too. My meter shows half full, but apparently, it broke, and at a location of speeding trucks and no lights but of passing vehicles and the full moon above. My travel pal julie had to get gas for me, and I had to hang on.

A little while later, she came and drove to the Police Station. With the help of a Couchsurfing guy Leo in Haiphong who translated what I needed, the Police advised me to take a rest for the night, and come back the next day for a fix.

The next day, I came back, and was asked to go to Immigration. A motor taxi dropped me there, and there was a lady who spoke a bit of English.

After some explaining, unfortunately, the answer was, I have to drive to the Lao Border. I called up the Police officer, and was told to come back to the Police station at 2pm.

I came to the Police station ahead of time. After waiting for about 30 mins and no sign of the Police I'm supposed to meet, I sent him an SMS; Minutes later, he replied saying he's coming.

We drove onto the immigration office. After parking, the Police called up someone, and later had the other police speak to me. I was told the same thing this morning. It has gotten more frustrating, just when i'm so pressed with time, I did not know why i had to wait until 2pm, and drive to the immigration (and not even walk onto the office). Whatever transpired, I think could have done right then and there in the morning.

Again, whining won't help. I asked julie to pack up real quick and we're driving to Hanoi.

From Lang Son, it was 160kms to Hanoi, and because of the the highway, gladly it took us only less than 3 hours to drive it. 

I was initially thinking of driving it further, but i thought, the more I rush, the more frustrating it becomes. I told myself, money is nothing compared to what I have been putting myself into.

The following day, we drove early onto the Na Meo border. it's 255kms away from Hanoi. The road was not as great as that of Lang Son-Hanoi; Half of what we've driven was also highland. By 5:30pm, we were in Mau Chai Village, and I decided to call the day there. It's about 130kms to go, and with the terrain, it's not so safe to drive at night.

Leaving Mau Chai for the Na Meo border

I woke up the next day earlier than usual; It's my second day of overstay, and I am preparing myself for, maybe, a series of questioning on the border.

I started driving at around 9:30. It was an even worse road, I would every so often look at my maps if i'm in the right direction. The route goes into smaller and even more remote villages, much of which is unpaved, and muddy. I would get so worried on how bad it can get further, and if it may be a good idea to turn back, and reroute while early. Then again, just thinking of how long i've driven so far, I just went forward. 

It took me 13 hours to get to the border, arriving at around 5:30. At around 4:30, I was driving a little bit recklessly already just to make it on time. I was on self pity, for having to endure all these, in these past days, just for the sake of a stamp.

the road to the Na Meo Border between Vietnam and Laos

the road to the Na Meo Border between Vietnam and Laos

the road to the Na Meo Border between Vietnam and Laos

upon stopping at his store, this old man saw me quite dusty and took a rag and shook it off. Would not even give me the rag to do it myself

the road to the Na Meo Border between Vietnam and Laos

the road to the Na Meo Border between Vietnam and Laos

the road to the Na Meo Border between Vietnam and Laos

I parked the bike, and asked for the passport control. The room seems empty, seemingly closed. 

Then, somebody walked in. i explained, I badly need to get the exit stamp; The immigration officer asked for my passport.

I have told him ahead I am on overstay for 2 days, but it dont seem like he understands. My phone is drained, I plugged it onto my power bank.

Immigration officer looked at the stamp, and was shaking his head upon seeing the expiry date of the visa. I was pointing to my phone, while saying, I'll call my friend to explain.

I went out to get a cigarette while waiting for my phone to come up; Meanwhile, immigration officer walks out of the office and took his phone to, i suppose, talk to his superior.

Right on time, the phone came up, and I quickly dialled Leo's phone, and told him about the situation. Immigration officer meanwhile walks right back in and calls me; He was ready to stamp my passport, and I passed the phone to him. After talking to Leo, he proceeded to stamping. No other words were utterred, while i repeatedly said "thank you, cam on, thank you"

No fines, no other questions, no forms, no ban. Thank Goodness it's done.


This post is part of the #limbonisASIA trip. See link for more stories, detailed expenses and itinerary

Read More »

16days in Luang Prabang

It has been 10days in Laos and I have not been so happy with the balance of what I am seeing and what I have been spending.

Honestly, I was not so impressed with Luang Prabang on my landing; I've seen the colonial setup, but couldn't quite see as yet what was in it and why people even bother.

I have actually booked through Spicy Laos Backpacker, but is nowhere to be found. My booking and Passbook application on my iphone pointed me to Luang Prabang backpacker which, upon my arrival, said it is not the same. I had no choice but to give it up, and look elsewhere. I found Merry II Guesthouse, and got a good price (same as what i booked with Spicy Laos), so settled with it.

Meantime, at night, i walked towards the night market, and discovered the 10,000 LAK ($1.20) buffet; On my way back to my guesthouse, I spotted a sign pointing to Spicy Laos.

At that time, I was not really thinking of staying beyond 3 more days, but thought about checking out my booked accomodation anyway, just to see what it's like. 

Upon my arrival, I asked if there's a dorm available and was told it's 25,000/day (half of what is in the booking). Apparently, just like the case in Easy Go Backpackers in Vang Vieng, during low season, they seem to lower their regular price.

I picked up my bag from Merry II and moved to Spicy Laos.

I roamed around town, and was happy to know that most of the destinations were just a walk away. Majority were temples which don't really strike as much appeal to me, so decided to skip paying entrance just to see what's inside.

Meantime, I visited the Kuang Si waterfall without a concrete plan, but was amazed at the sight on my arrival. It seems it's a lot better during rainy season when there's plenty of current.

On another day, I was allowed to do some painting for the guesthouse. I saw the owner doing some painting work, and asked if there's anything else; The next day, he asked me if i'd like to do some painting, which i firmly affirmed.

I bet he was a little satisfied with the work, and so, at that same night, he asked if I would be interested in visiting some remote village, which I did not refuse of course.

The next day, he walked in to my bed to wake me up. 7am it is, and I was told we're moving at 8. It was way too early to get some food somewhere. 

Much to my delight, we are actually attending a Rasi Ceremony which he is a sponsor. I've not had any meal, and we drank as early as 9am. For such, I was drunk by noontime. 

The following day, I woke up with one of the walls suddenly painted white. He asked if i'd like to paint again, and said yes. It was all I did the rest of the day.

For the other day, we did some volunteer work at the Big Brother Mouse; It is basically a center where keen students can have a conversation with interested english speaking volunteers so they can practice their vocabulary and pronunciation. I did it for 2 more days after.

In that same evening, there was this woman in the food market who'm i've been wanting to help for the past nights that I have been eating at the buffet food market. 

Of all the buffet stalls in the market, she does not have any assistant, have less selection, is at the end, thus last to be checked out, and so felt I can probably try to do something at least for a night.

I asked these travellers I am with if they'd be interested, and were happy to go with me. We made such a scene in the night market with a co-traveller's accordion, and glad that for a night, we pushed her average income.

One day, we also thought about doing barbeque or picnic somewhere. I told the owner of the guesthouse about the plan, and  agreed to get us to some place. He owned some land outside the town, and this is where we went with the guesthouse service truck.

For the coming days, it was just lounging around guesthouse. My day was just basically have lunch from food bought from the nearby stalls, borrow the guesthouse's laptop and sit at it the whole day, and at night, take the night market buffet, and chill a bit at Utopia perhaps.

The next thing I know, everyone I know in the guesthouse has left, and I am approaching my visa's deadline and have to move.

One thing that made me stay so long in Luang prabang is probably the cost of staying; Accomodation and Food, which is the basic, can fit a $6 a day budget.

There is not much around Luang Prabang, but the fact that i can stay and eat cheap, have places to chill if i'd like too, and around cool people, thus it was worthwhile spending more time than necessary. Indeed, with 15 days in Luang Prabang, I was hit by the "one more day" bug.


This post is part of the #limbonisASIA trip. See link for more stories, detailed expenses and itinerary

For more detailed info about Laos, visit
Laos Guide 999 : or Laos Tourism for information about public transpo, destinations, etc

It has been 10days in Laos and I have not been so happy with the balance of what I am seeing and what I have been spending.

Honestly, I was not so impressed with Luang Prabang on my landing; I've seen the colonial setup, but couldn't quite see as yet what was in it and why people even bother.

I have actually booked through Spicy Laos Backpacker, but is nowhere to be found. My booking and Passbook application on my iphone pointed me to Luang Prabang backpacker which, upon my arrival, said it is not the same. I had no choice but to give it up, and look elsewhere. I found Merry II Guesthouse, and got a good price (same as what i booked with Spicy Laos), so settled with it.

Meantime, at night, i walked towards the night market, and discovered the 10,000 LAK ($1.20) buffet; On my way back to my guesthouse, I spotted a sign pointing to Spicy Laos.

At that time, I was not really thinking of staying beyond 3 more days, but thought about checking out my booked accomodation anyway, just to see what it's like. 

Upon my arrival, I asked if there's a dorm available and was told it's 25,000/day (half of what is in the booking). Apparently, just like the case in Easy Go Backpackers in Vang Vieng, during low season, they seem to lower their regular price.

I picked up my bag from Merry II and moved to Spicy Laos.

I roamed around town, and was happy to know that most of the destinations were just a walk away. Majority were temples which don't really strike as much appeal to me, so decided to skip paying entrance just to see what's inside.

Meantime, I visited the Kuang Si waterfall without a concrete plan, but was amazed at the sight on my arrival. It seems it's a lot better during rainy season when there's plenty of current.

On another day, I was allowed to do some painting for the guesthouse. I saw the owner doing some painting work, and asked if there's anything else; The next day, he asked me if i'd like to do some painting, which i firmly affirmed.

I bet he was a little satisfied with the work, and so, at that same night, he asked if I would be interested in visiting some remote village, which I did not refuse of course.

The next day, he walked in to my bed to wake me up. 7am it is, and I was told we're moving at 8. It was way too early to get some food somewhere. 

Much to my delight, we are actually attending a Rasi Ceremony which he is a sponsor. I've not had any meal, and we drank as early as 9am. For such, I was drunk by noontime. 

The following day, I woke up with one of the walls suddenly painted white. He asked if i'd like to paint again, and said yes. It was all I did the rest of the day.

For the other day, we did some volunteer work at the Big Brother Mouse; It is basically a center where keen students can have a conversation with interested english speaking volunteers so they can practice their vocabulary and pronunciation. I did it for 2 more days after.

In that same evening, there was this woman in the food market who'm i've been wanting to help for the past nights that I have been eating at the buffet food market. 

Of all the buffet stalls in the market, she does not have any assistant, have less selection, is at the end, thus last to be checked out, and so felt I can probably try to do something at least for a night.

I asked these travellers I am with if they'd be interested, and were happy to go with me. We made such a scene in the night market with a co-traveller's accordion, and glad that for a night, we pushed her average income.

One day, we also thought about doing barbeque or picnic somewhere. I told the owner of the guesthouse about the plan, and  agreed to get us to some place. He owned some land outside the town, and this is where we went with the guesthouse service truck.

For the coming days, it was just lounging around guesthouse. My day was just basically have lunch from food bought from the nearby stalls, borrow the guesthouse's laptop and sit at it the whole day, and at night, take the night market buffet, and chill a bit at Utopia perhaps.

The next thing I know, everyone I know in the guesthouse has left, and I am approaching my visa's deadline and have to move.

One thing that made me stay so long in Luang prabang is probably the cost of staying; Accomodation and Food, which is the basic, can fit a $6 a day budget.

There is not much around Luang Prabang, but the fact that i can stay and eat cheap, have places to chill if i'd like too, and around cool people, thus it was worthwhile spending more time than necessary. Indeed, with 15 days in Luang Prabang, I was hit by the "one more day" bug.


This post is part of the #limbonisASIA trip. See link for more stories, detailed expenses and itinerary

For more detailed info about Laos, visit
Laos Guide 999 : or Laos Tourism for information about public transpo, destinations, etc

Read More »

Backpacker Accomodation: Where I stayed in Luang Prabang: Merry II, and Spicy Laos Backpacker

I wasn't so satisfied with my stay in Laos so far considering what I have been spending. I thought vietnam was better as it was cheaper in all aspects, transpo, food, accomodation.

Meanwhile, it doesn't seem like its wise to skip Luang Prabang, besides, I have found and booked to this accomodation for $5.00/night (which is, while not as expected, not too pricey just as well).

I am subscribed to tripit, and my booking is sent to me over email, with a link to my google maps on where it is.

Upon my arrival in Luang Prabang, I had looked into the email, and it launched my maps; It was pointing to Luang Prabang backpacker though (which I thought was probably an older or alternative name). Apparently, when i got to the placemark, Luang Prabang is not the same guesthouse.

It was quite a headache looking for the guesthouse, until it was turning dark, and I thought about looking somewhere close instead; I'm tired of the 6hour winding trip, plus I was seated at the rear next to the luggages, so it wasn't comfortable in any way.

The cheapest I've found within the area where I was at is Merry II. They had a sign in front of the guesthouse about the room rates (published 50K up), which I was able to bargain for 40,000 since I am alone.

During the night, I walked around the night market, and on my way back, spotted the sign for Spicy Laos. Also, reading online, some articles, and as recent as June 2014, said that they paid 25,000 for a fan dorm.

The next day, I decided to check out spicy Laos, just for the heck of it. Indeed, there was a 25,000 dorm, so I decided to move (and just in case i enjoy Luang Prabang).

The beds were comfortable, plus the dorms had their own toilet inside, so no need to get out of the room.

Water refill is available, and clothesline for me to do my own laundry. Best news is that there are no bedbugs,

This post is part of the #limbonisASIA trip. See link for more stories, detailed expenses and itinerary

For more detailed info about Laos, visit
Laos Guide 999 : or Laos Tourism for information about public transpo, destinations, etc


Travelling Philippines? Follow CheapBedsPH on Instagram for geotagged backpacker accomodation for easier searches

I wasn't so satisfied with my stay in Laos so far considering what I have been spending. I thought vietnam was better as it was cheaper in all aspects, transpo, food, accomodation.

Meanwhile, it doesn't seem like its wise to skip Luang Prabang, besides, I have found and booked to this accomodation for $5.00/night (which is, while not as expected, not too pricey just as well).

I am subscribed to tripit, and my booking is sent to me over email, with a link to my google maps on where it is.

Upon my arrival in Luang Prabang, I had looked into the email, and it launched my maps; It was pointing to Luang Prabang backpacker though (which I thought was probably an older or alternative name). Apparently, when i got to the placemark, Luang Prabang is not the same guesthouse.

It was quite a headache looking for the guesthouse, until it was turning dark, and I thought about looking somewhere close instead; I'm tired of the 6hour winding trip, plus I was seated at the rear next to the luggages, so it wasn't comfortable in any way.

The cheapest I've found within the area where I was at is Merry II. They had a sign in front of the guesthouse about the room rates (published 50K up), which I was able to bargain for 40,000 since I am alone.

During the night, I walked around the night market, and on my way back, spotted the sign for Spicy Laos. Also, reading online, some articles, and as recent as June 2014, said that they paid 25,000 for a fan dorm.

The next day, I decided to check out spicy Laos, just for the heck of it. Indeed, there was a 25,000 dorm, so I decided to move (and just in case i enjoy Luang Prabang).

The beds were comfortable, plus the dorms had their own toilet inside, so no need to get out of the room.

Water refill is available, and clothesline for me to do my own laundry. Best news is that there are no bedbugs,

This post is part of the #limbonisASIA trip. See link for more stories, detailed expenses and itinerary

For more detailed info about Laos, visit
Laos Guide 999 : or Laos Tourism for information about public transpo, destinations, etc


Travelling Philippines? Follow CheapBedsPH on Instagram for geotagged backpacker accomodation for easier searches

Read More »