Southern Asia
 

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    Southern Asia

» Bangladesh

Intro: Although Bangladesh has very few sights, it is a beautifully green country with very traditional river life and small, quaint villages. Travel by boat is the way to experience the heart of Bangladesh and any visit is certainly about the journey and not the destination. The highlight of Bangladesh is undeniably the people. Coming from the hassle in India, particularly Northern India, the genuine friendliness from the Bangladeshis is a breath of fresh air. Of course, it comes with a sense of guilt, when you are sometimes treated like a movie star, but is a great way to learn about the country as at times it seems that every person that speaks a even a little English will want to strike up a conversation and offer you dinner, a place to stay, etc. (and not in the same way that can taint some similar experiences elsewhere on the Sub-continent where such an offer turns into a shopping trip or the like). What you should always keep in mind is although developing in pockets, Bangladesh is very, very poor so like in India, travel takes some effort and mostly - time.

Many thanks to George Schoneveld for supplying this summary and the great photos. The views and facts here are well-research and good quality, but just bear in mind they should perhaps not be compared directly to other country summaries by other authors. The Sunderbans an area of mango-grove swamps which the country shares with India, and is a world heritage sight plus home to tigers is fairly inaccessible for budget travellers - you'll need official guards to chaperone you, as there are incidents of banditry in the area. The costs of a trip is high and notoriously difficult to arrange.

• Highlights: Old Dhaka, the Rocket Trip, cycling around tea plantations in the North-East, Chittagong District, St. Maarten's Island. Escaping the backpacker crowds. Being able to get of the beaten track.

• Lowlights: Lack of privacy, although if you give into it, it adds to the experience. Going to the Sunderbans requires a lot of hassle (permits need to be processed (prone to brides, excessive bureaucracy), official guards and boats need to be arranged, etc.)

• Visa strategy: Arrange beforehand; can be done in one day in Calcutta

• Typical tourist trail: There is no tourist trail - this isn't India.

• Dangers: Riots in Dhaka and political instability at times. Some Muslim extremism and banditry in a few easy to avoid areas such as Sunderbans and Burmese border areas. And of course natural disasters most typically flooding.

• Hot/cold, wet and dry: Same as India really. Monsoon starts in May/June and can lead to severe flooding. It is cooler than India in April/May

• Costs: Cheap! Similar to India also, except that the food bill is always severely inflated. There is no (English) menu and determining price before ordering is strenuous, in part because nobody speaks English and not much effort is given to understand you. US$ 8-15/day

• Money: ATM’s in Khulna, Chittagong, and Dhaka. Best rates on FX are the Indian Rupee and easiest to change with locals/stores as in many places there are no banks.

• What to take: Leave your Western sense of privacy behind

• Getting around:

  • Roads & Water: Easy, but all bus signs are in Bengal script. The slowest, but most spectacular way to get around it by boat, especially the Rocket (looks like one of those Mississippi-style pedal boats). This is the way to see the Bangladeshi river life! Has three classes, one is deck class, where you have to fight for a place on the ground, one is an 8 bunk room, and first class. First Class costs about 12 dollars (36 hour trip from Khulna to Dhaka), you have your own room and a deck with comfortable chairs on the front of the boat and a small dining facility, where they serve slightly pricey (but top rate) meals.

• Trains: Comfortable and easy.

• Air: Flights to Dhaka and Chittagong

• Guidebook: Lonely Planet is very poor, with many errors, but the only guidebook. Midnight Children (Rushdie) has a part on the Sunderbans.

• People vibe:

  • Locals: Extremely friendly! Foreigners are a real novelty. Having a Chai on the street will generate a fifty plus male crowd. It is worth remembering this use to be East-Pakistan and is an Islamic country and travelling as an unmarried couple is technically unacceptable. Better and easy to say you are married, but you won't have any real problems as an unmarried couple or different sex friends.

  • Other travellers: Very few. Only saw 2 in 1 month (other reports state even less). Many expats (NGO’s) in the rich suburbs of Dhaka. Most people assume that travellers are working for local NGO’s.   

• Tourist factor: 2/10

• Accommodation: Fairly decrepit as you might expect. Bangladeshis have little sense of shame, so expect people from the village to enter you room unannounced and stare, peer through cracks in the door or stare at you from the window. Hotel owners are usually really honoured you want to stay there, so will do anything for you (sometimes too much and too imposing). In some places in Old Dhaka they will not permit non-Muslims. Unmarried couples are banned from hotels without exception (as in Iran simply state you are married if asked).

  • Hot water: None, only big hotels in Dhaka

  • Average cost: US$ 3-8 per room

• Communications: Outside big cities, no internet.

• Health: Food poisoning commonplace in at least some measure during an extended stay.

• Food: Spicy Lamb or chicken curry with chapatti. Rarely anything else. Gets really boring. Sometimes you'll find kebabs.

  • Vegetarians: Nothing for exciting for vegetarians - can be tough. Plenty of plain rice.

• Hassle and annoyance factor: People don’t hassle you, but you will be overcharged in restaurants. The constant crowds foreigners draw get really tiring, but at the same time is also the charm.

  • Women alone: Possible, but not recommended.

• Drugs, cigarettes and alcohol: Cigarettes very cheap. Alcohol only in large hotels.

• Rating 7.5/10

» India

 Miss at your peril - 'Highlight of Independent Travel' - However bear in mind: a lot of hassle, heat and long distances.

• Intro: Wow, here it is - the epitome of Asia and all travel. That love it / hate it thing that everyone speaks about. Yes, it's damn trying and hard work, but India has so much to offer on and off the tourist trail: English spoken, culturally/historically fascinating, good transport, cheap and just plain brilliant. But take it easy and do a little bit at a time. This really is one of the few places on the globe you can still get serious culture shock and sensual overload. India really is just so much it's almost impossible to introduce and summarise, perhaps the only common theme is you'll feel like all your senses are being assaulted. It's hard to understand and explain just why somewhere so often dirty, hot, ugly and full of hassle has such an appeal. The answer lies enigmatically with it being often the exact opposite. There is just no way that it won't have an effect on you and if (like me and thousands of others) you leave after your first trip loathing it, you'll probably remember your visit fondly and be back many, many times. The best advice to minimise the negative effect travel in India can have is to allow time or keep to a small route, pick a cooler time of year and remember that although India can be dirt cheap it will always be more expensive for a traveller. It is worth noting that southern areas like Goa and Kerala are significantly less stressful than bigger northern cities and especially the Rajasthan/Agra/Delhi tourist trail. Never forget you get what you pay for: a little extra goes a long way - for your sanity too. Flights are good value and well worth it if you have the funds. Other advice is getting a double entry visa so you can pop to Nepal for a break from it all.

  • Highlights: Taj Maha (Agra, 1-2 hours from Delhi), Golden Temple (Amritsar), Varanasi, Goa & Kerala (both southern states not cities), Jaisalmer, Udaipur, Kanha National Park, the Pakistan border closing ceremony (near Amritsar), the food, the mountainous north (although Kashmir is better/safer and easier in Pakistan) incl. the road to Leh, Ladakh, trek to Gangotri Glacier - so much and especially the people and general feel.

  • Lowlights: The hassle, distances, getting ill, dirt/dust, heat, big crowds at major attractions (for example Leh in the summer, Goa at Christmas or Agra anytime). Despite having the main must see cities in India (Varanasi and Agra) any travel in the state of Uttar Pradesh just about sums up the lowlights of Indian travel and it's worth mentioning that if you limit your travels to this area, Delhi/Bombay and Rajasthan state (see map of Indian states), you'll see some great sights, but have far more of your share of hassle, crowds, dust and dirt, than a more encompassing Indian trip and probably feel a lot more negativity about the country than someone who saw Goa, Kerala, the far north or somewhere more off the beaten track.

• Visa strategy: Yes you'll need a visa and normally will have to wait a day or two for it. Pick up in any major capital before you go. Valid for six months from date of issue (not from your entry into the country). Multi and single entry often cost the same.

  • Permits: Restricted area permits are required for the following states in India: Sikkim (15 days, get in Siliguri), Andaman Islands (30 days - issued at the airport if flying in, if coming by boat you'll need to get in advance). Permits are no longer needed for Assam, Tripura or Meghalaya, but you still need one for Manipur, the Arunachal Pradesh, Mizoram and Nagaland.

• Typical tourist trail: Delhi, Agra, loop around Rajasthan or Himachal Pradesh and then either to Goa or across to Varanasi to head to Nepal.

• Dangers: Sometimes simply letting it all get to you. Other than this, food poisoning can be a serious issue as can petty theft. Be extra careful on overnight trains, with small bags on buses and always in Delhi. If on your own be on extra guard. Little scams are very common and can lead to a jaded experience. Be sensible: avoid Kashmir if your government advises. Another issue of concern for travellers is sexual harassment of women. Lone female travels need to be extra careful travelling as Indian men will be very friendly and certainly do not engage in any tours, travels or long journeys (i.e. taxi charter) with only Indian male counterparts. Terrorism is also flagged as a concern by many, but in the big picture of Indian travel will be fairly low down your list of worries.

• Costs: Cheap, but can end up averaging out a little bit more, since it's easy to spend more just to have a few creature comforts and because it is cheap you can start buying/paying for thing at liberty. A more comfortable standard of accommodation, especially in larger cities like Mumbai will greatly increase any budget. It is also worth noting that the Indian Rupee is one of a number of rapidly developing nation currencies that has significantly strengthened against western currencies. Although its strengthening has not been as dramatic as with the Turkish Lira or Brazilian Real, nonetheless the days of 50Rps to a USD are long gone. Coupled with inflation and increased energy prices, India is without a doubt more expensive than in days gone by.

• Money: Thomas Cook traveller cheques can be cashed commission free in branches in major cities, but any 'hard' currency brand of travellers cheques are fine. Then again you can find loads of ATMs to draw money from and credit cards can be used for large items such as plane tickets. In tourist areas virtually any hard currency cash changes (you name it CHF, AUD, CAD and so on), but Euros, GBP or US$ will be easiest overall. Also worth mentioning is the importance of smaller denomination rupee notes because change can be hard to come by, so break larger notes when you can and hang on to the small 10 & 50 notes.

• What to take: Patience and a sense of humour

• Getting around (land): Local and government buses can be okay, but aren't much fun for long distances: private (as in not operated by the state) buses or shared taxis are much better - all run frequently. Some tourists in Rajasthan and other areas hire a car and driver for several weeks - great idea, but only if your driver is good and not a pain as so many Indians can be, so in many ways this is a gamble and quite expensive comparatively if you are one or few.

• Getting around (trains): India has a great rail service (www.indianrail.gov.in) which is also the world's biggest employer. There is so much that can be written on train travel in India, it has had to be given its own page. Click here to view: Indian Railways Explained. Outside of this page it's worth noting you can now reserve ahead on the internet (although fairly slow) and popular routes (Mumbai-Goa and Delhi-Agra) and popular trains (such as expresses or sleepers) can fill up fast, since in India people look to trains first and buses second. Getting a ticket can be a hassle, but many routes have foreigner quotas and most stations foreigner counters/information. Many agencies offer train booking services and major stations have special offices for tourists.

• Getting around (planes): To really get around India on anything, but an very extended trip you'll need to make some use of its airline network, which has boomed in pass years. Indian trains are great, but costs in more comfortable classes add up and after 25+ hours on the same train you might wish you looked into flying. A real bonus is a 30% discount is offered for under 30s on internal Air India flights making for great value, but obviously this line gets booked up first. Many other new budget airlines have recently started business in India, making getting around if you've a little extra cash to spare, much, much easier. However, do be warned that popular flights in peak seasons (i.e. Bombay to Goa) will be booked up in advance and simply because of the distances the price of some flights may seem expensive. If you really need a flight for a short trip where time is important, book ahead on the web (Spice Jet & Jet Airways both good on-line), inside India you will find numerous offers for flight booking. On-line booking doesn't seem possible for all lines, but this may change. Note that some budget airlines foreigner price with non-Indian prices being much higher. You will also need your printed confirmation to be able to get into the airport building. Remember this is India and cancellations and delays are likely (fog during winter brings the network to a standstill) - so if making connections allow plenty of time - Jet and Kingfisher seem to have the best reputation. As at 2008 a current list of internal Indian airlines include: Air Deccan, Jet Airways, Air India, Air India Express, Go Air, Paramount Airways, Alliance Air, Air Sahara, Indigo, Blue Dart, Spice Jet and Indian Airlines. For some links see here. For Indian domestic flights schedules and which airline flies which route the following link is recommended.

  • To Kathmandu (Nepal): The road trip from Varanasi takes two days (with a night stop). Flying is a popular and easy option. Easy to arrange from Calcutta, Varanasi or Delhi.

• People vibe:

  • Locals: With so much hassle it's easy to get disillusioned, but in fact Indians are extremely nice people. Remember rural India, in particular, is very conservative. It is important to dress modestly to avoid offending local sensibilities and also (especially for women) to avoid being the target of unwanted attention.

  • Other travellers: Very wide range, including large numbers of domestic tourist that crowd notable destinations during high seasons. Aside from Indians you will find travels from all over Europe, USA and Australia/NZ, including as in Nepal/Thailand and South America, a large number of Israelis many of whom are fresh out of the army and seem to do everything they can to further worsen their reputation with locals and foreigners alike. Equally you will find an increasingly large number of Russians, particularly in Goa. And of course, being India you'll find many a non-too-talkative hardcore backpacker (everyone wants to think they are having the ultimate India experience) outside main tourist cities.

• Tourist factor: 7-8/10, but easily escaped away from must-see sights and out of season

• Accommodation: Loads of cheap guest houses, most a little hot, noisy and basic. Middle range rooms with AC are worth it at times. If you are hitting Goa at New Year or a tourist attraction during a festive, get there earlier or book ahead, otherwise there is plenty of accommodation and touts who will help you find it.

  • Hot water: Normally available, not so much in the south - it all depends on your budget: a little buys you a lot more. Note, however that hot water can often be charged extra on top of cheap rooms.

  • Average cost: From 8USD to average double 14USD (no AC). Much, much more expensive in Bombay (Mumbai), during festivals, some other big cities and in Goa during Christmas/New Year. If you are looking for more comfort then 25+USD normally gets you a nice room, but 10+% luxury tax can be added on.

• Communications: Loads of internet access, but often slow. Phone calls home a breeze to make from numerous call shops and international rates very reasonable. Most guesthouse will also accept incoming calls if requested.

• Health: It's likely (but not certain) that as a traveller you will suffer at some stages from diarrhoea or constipation or worse, food poisoning during a prolonged stay - don't let this put you off. It doesn't happen by default to everyone and when it does, usually passes quickly.

• Food: Fantastic and loads of variety, but getting ill or fear of, makes you a little wary.

  • Vegetarians: Heaven on earth

• Hassle and annoyance factor: This depends very much on which part of the country you visit. The difference of a trip to Kerala compared to Uttar Pradesh, hassle wise will be notable, the latter being just about as much as anyone can take, the prior being a bearable level. On the whole there is a lot of hassle in India and it's generally as in your face as it gets (although as mentioned regions do vary - north worse than south, rural versus cities, etc.). Learn to be cool: don't get bulled, be firm and humorous when talking and after a few weeks you will get less of it. As brilliant as India is, no one will kid you it doesn't take a lot of getting used to and adjusting. Well worth reading is the dealing with hassle and beggars section of this site.

  • Women alone: Expect a lot of unwanted attention and some quite dangerous. To respect Indian sensitivities when in public Western women should wear skirts below the knees or longer or relatively loose slacks, avoiding sleeveless tops, tight trousers/pants, and shorts. Young women and teenage girls, especially those dressed in tight or short Western dress, may attract undesirable attention. These suggestions are especially important when visiting rural areas or tradition-bound urban areas.

• Drugs, cigarettes and alcohol: Bhang normally served as a legal yogurt drink (lassi) is made from the leaves and shoots of hemp. The common effect is getting fairly stoned, but sometimes you will feel no effect, other times you will be dangerously off your head and quite unwell. It seems impossible to gauge the strength of these drinks. Pot is illegal (despite seeing Hindu holy men smoking it), but easily available in mountain regions, Pushkar, Goa and many others. Alcohol availability depends very much on how the state you are in views it, Goa being famously the most relaxed.

• Rating: 8.5/10

» Nepal

 Miss at your peril - 'Highlight of Independent Travel'

• Intro: Probably the most memorable place on the planet scenery-wise, friendly, cheap and laid back (especially if coming from India), but you are by no means alone and too many tourists or on-going troubles could taint your experience. Nepal is at its worst in the big tourist traps and veritable pleasure domes of Kathmandu and Pokhara that are so comfortable and hard to pull yourself away from. Nepal at its best is trekking. Nowhere in the world could trekking be as easy and as comfortable - and the scenery is not bad either. You do need to allow time to trek, which puts many off, choosing instead to do some quick toured trips. Allow the time (at least 14 days): it's the best Nepal has to offer and indeed one of the highlights of world travel. In Nepal, (present situation aside) you really don't have to worry about a thing and if you have lots of time, there are huge deserted areas to explore, like the national parks in the south-west and several week-long rafting trips.

  • Highlights: Pretty much everything, especially trekking

  • Lowlights: Really well-trodden trails and peak season crowds meaning fun and 'specialness' is taken out of many sights and activities (see below as, depending on time of year, this is not the issue used to be). The poorest country in the region, the Maoist rebellion and ensuing government crack-down on freedom has led to a general malaise and depression.

• Visa strategy: On arrival at border (most, not all) and airport. Pick it up in advance to avoid long lines. US$30 for 60 days. You'll probably have to pay in US dollars.

• Typical tourist trail: Kathmandu to Pokhara and a trek

• Tourist factor: In the old days, 9/10 (especially in season), with the current troubles much, much less.

• Dangers: Apart from the considerations above regarding the somewhat troubled situation of the country; staying too long and spending too much money having too much of a great time. Live music, films and bars in Kathmandu.

• Costs: Cheap: $15 a day, if trekking less than $10

• Money: ATMs in major towns

» Pakistan

 Miss at your peril: Northern Pakistan & The Karakoram Highway -  'Highlight of Independent Travel'

• Visa strategy: Pretty much all nationalities require a visa. If coming from China get in Hong Kong or Beijing, there are none available in Kashgar or on the border. Visas also available in India and Iran. Many choose to pick it up in their home town. Costs vary: a multiple entry visa is highly recommended, a little more expensive but no problem – will allow side-trips to the two gems that are Kashgar and the road there (China) & Amritsar (India). Normally valid for four to six months. Extensions are available only in Islamabad and take time (expect a whole day) and hassle.

• Typical tourist trail: Lahore - Islamabad - Karimabad.... continuing up to the border and Kashgar in China. Peshawar (the Khyber Pass), Chitral and the Kalash valley also feature on many trips, but in real terms few get there. The tourist heart of Pakistan is Karimabad and the only place you really see westerners in any numbers - it's the only place you could really label a tourist trap.

• Costs: Cheap, cheap, budget travel on less than $10 a day possible. More goes a lot further, $20 allows for a good level of comfort. Comparable to India, is slightly better value.

• Money: Along the KKH cash is king. Hard currencies can be changed in a few towns along the KKH, but don't expect any banks and certainly no ATMs. ATMs are plentiful in big towns such as Islamabad, Peshawar and Lahore, but international ones need some searching out. CitiBank, Standard Charter and AMB-AMRO are your best bets to try to locate. Simply ask in a hotel for the location of one or try a taxi driver. CitiBank & Standard Charter are on the Visa Plus network; AMB-AMRO are on Cirrus. These banks will be your best bet for cashing travellers cheques, but Pakistani banks will do this for you with the standard hassle. Some mid-range hotels and travel agencies will take credit cards, but airline offices such as China Southwest and PIA will want cold hard Rupee (or dollars). If you're heading north and plan to hire a jeep or get a flight take plenty of cash. Euros and USDs change equally as well. When paying for larger transactions Euros or USDs are welcomed.

• What to take: Heading north, depending on the time of year, take warm clothing and decent footwear.

• Hot/cold, wet and dry: The best times to visit the low lands is from late October to February. Expect pleasant dry days, but some chilly nights. In March the heat sets in: late June brings rain. In the Karakoram area you don't need to worry about rain for there isn't much, but if you are going at any other time than between June and August (the high season) it's going to be cold. During spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) it is warm in the sun but cold in the shade: the nights are freezing. It's actually okay, the mountains look extra frosty and there are almost no tourists. Just take a good fleece. During mid-winter it's bearable in the sun, but the air is cold all day. There will probably be snow and the pass to China will close with deep snow (seen snow falling lightly on the pass in mid September). Around mid October tourist numbers die down, the leaves change colour, apples/apricots are ready - simply gorgeous. By far the most popular time is the summer months of July/August. The temperature is warm in the day (t-shirt weather) and mild at night. This is the high season and the best time to trek since a night in a tent is not so cold (but still pretty cold if at a base camp). Hotels/flights are at their fullest, conversely in the winter months many close.

• Guide book:  The Pakistan and KKH Lonely Planet is your best bet and most up to date. Running all the way up the KKH including Kashgar, it works heading north up the KKH. The much older Lonely Planet KKH, which only covers the KKH, works heading south down the KKH. It's out of date, but like the other option, the Footprint Northern Pakistan, it's still reliable and with much more detail. The LP for Pakistan and many other countries is available in Islamabad and from a great little book stall on the Indian border crossing.

• People vibe:

  • Locals: As you might expect in a country the size and geographic location of Pakistan, locals come in many flavours and forms. Afghans are easily spotted in and around Peshawar. Heading north there is a huge medley of ethnic groups: working up the KKH it's not unusual to find towns next to each other speaking different languages, many of whom don't even consider themselves as Pakistanis. Generally speaking Pakistanis are extremely friendly and welcoming. As a rule of thumb big city folk will be less friendly. Lahore for example has something approaching the hassle you might find in India, but working your way north up the KKH it gets friendlier with some ethnic groups around Passu and Sust being extremely welcoming to travellers. Exceptions (with the north being such a patchwork of cultures it's hard to generalise) would be a few paranoid and less than welcoming locals in off-the-beaten-track KKH trekking areas - nothing a guide can't help you with. And of course in the many sensitive religious areas of the country, if you want to be treated with respect and be welcomed, you must dress appropriately and conservatively - both men and women.

  • Travellers often think Pakistan is less Muslim than Iran. However, many religious assumptions are the same. While it is not legally required for women to cover up (arms/legs fully covered, loose fitting clothes and bottom covered by long top, head scarf at the ready), most do and apart from in the north, most westerners would be advised to do so as well. However as with Iran, the fact this is an Islamic Republic should not put anyone off travelling if done sensibly (well maybe George W!).

  • Other travellers: You won't see too many Americans or Israelis that's for sure (although the Americans that do make it are very much welcomed). Expect a good number of Dutch, English and Japanese with the rest made up by other European nationalities and Ozzies.

• Trekking: There are loads of easy one day to three day treks on and around the KKH. A few recommended are in the Natar, Hushe and Astor valleys, Rakaposhi base camp and Ultar Meadow. All can be done in a day from the right village or in a more relaxed two days. The Lonely Planet vastly overestimates the time needed for fit individuals to do many treks (e.g. quoting three days for 12km!) In Karimabad and Passu you can find many guides who will take you on longer treks and have all the necessary kit. The Glassier View campsite/restaurant in Passu has a great guide available and nearby suspension bridges are a real thrill. Treks to see K2 are long and difficult (especially the base camp), not to be compared to getting to Everest BC. There is no teahouse situation as in Nepal where you can eat/sleep along the trail.

• Communications: On the KKH, Karimabad has a few internet places, but don't expect to find many or any others. In big towns out of the mountains there are plenty of places, which are much easier to find and faster in cities such as Islamabad (with its fair share of westerners) than in cities like Peshawar. International calls are easy from any little call shop and not too expensive.

• Food: Similar to northern Indian cuisine using lentils, yogurt and curry heavily - apart from it's more meat laden. Pretty good food available with ease in most towns that see a small stream of tourists. Many hotels have good restaurants. Dhal and breads are standard options. Great selection in cities like Islamabad. Apart from there, international food is hard to find.

  • Vegetarians: Many dishes feature meat such as mutton. Fish uncommon. Veggie dishes uncommon, but normally one on each menu, although it's normally Dhal.

• Language: Like India, English is widely spoken making travel much easier.

• Health: Food poisoning doesn't seem to be the problem it can be in India. Altitude can have an effect on some travellers.

• Hassle and annoyance factor: Nothing compared to India. Expect some mild hassle and a million 'hello, how are you?' in cities like Peshawar and Lahore. Plus a few invites from the odd shop owner... but it's all very low key. Pakistan is pretty hassle free (similar to Kerala). Note that women often have separate queues in bus and train stations making their life even easier.

  • Women alone: Not a perfect situation, but far from impossible. Expect to be the subject of a constant curiosity and as in India some unwanted attention. Pakistani women rarely travel alone. Things are much easier in the KKH area. In towns such as Peshawar that border Afghanistan although not 100% necessary, a light scarf draped over your shoulders ready to cover your hair when needed (dupatta) and tunic-like light cotton top (shalwar-kamiz) that is lose fitting and hides bust and bottom makes life much easier, is highly recommended, is easily obtainable from a shop and will command you much higher levels of respect. See Iran country summary for a rough guideline - but remember Pakistan is not like Iran with its enforced dress code.

• Drugs, cigarettes and alcohol: Pakistan is, like Iran, a dry country, however as a non-Muslim tourist you can get a permit to buy alcohol, but there's little point because grog is only available in a few top end hotels. You might see Chinese beer for sale in a few places in Karimabad. In northern areas huge beautiful marijuana plants can be seen growing wild, but locals show no interest and plants are pollinated (see images1 - image2). In the NWFP (North-West Frontier Province) many guides seem keen to arrange for you some grass or opium, but apart from this you are unlikely to be offered drugs despite the very obvious presence of weed and the country's opium trade. This is not Nepal or Thailand.

• Rating: Let's think only of the best half of Pakistan and assume that political and security troubles subside: 9/10

» Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka could be described as diet India. It's much easier to get around - well the distances are substantially less - and in many ways the country is a watered-down India. Definitely South Asian, but without much of the madness, sheer number of people and oppressing poverty found elsewhere on the continent. A compact circuit with a mixture of great beaches and inland temples makes life easy and is perfect for a first time Asia trip, even if only for a ten day break. This hasn't gone unnoticed: a huge package tourist industry (mainly European) has driven prices up (there is considerable foreigner pricing on entrance fees) and crowded popular sights such as Sigiriya citadel and beaches such as the surf spot of Hikkaduwa (which is starting to model itself on a Spanish or Greek Island resort). If this is likely to bother you, you are advised to pick the much warmer, more humid off-season and not peak times such as Christmas.

• Highlights: Beaches (Passekudah on the east coast and less developed beaches along from Galle), some okay if slightly crowded surf breaks, Kandy, ancient cities (cycling around Anuradhapura & Polonnaruwa), hiring a motorbike and making your own way.

• Lowlights: Poor transportation infrastructure (an obvious triangle of attractions has poor transport connections), foreigner pricing on entrance tickets and an annoying 10% added to most bills, crowds at peak times, beach resorts such as Negombo, the old gem scam (buying gems that turn out to be worthless). If you have seen the cream of Asia's ancient cities (for example Bagan in Burma or Angkor in Cambodia) you may be disappointed at Sri Lanka's equivalents. The same can be said for beaches.

• Visa strategy: 30 days, available on arrival for most nationalities. Renewals are absurdly expensive (190USD for Americans, 54USD for Brits), and best avoided. To stay longer, apply to the Sri Lankan embassy in your country in advance, or fly to India (USD100 on-way) (no ferries, because of the civil war) and fly back – it may well still be cheaper for Americans.

• Typical tourist trail: Beaches, Kandy and the hill country, and the ancient cities.

• Key Tip: Colombo airport is actually 60km north of the capital. Colombo itself is not a noteworthy attraction. The not particularly appealing, but OK beach resort of Negombo can be reached for a few of dollars (around Rs500) by tuk-tuk from outside the airport gate. From there you can travel direct to Galle or Kandy. Or taxis to Kandy or Galle can be taken from the airport for a fairly reasonable price.

• Dangers: Malaria, food poisoning, Sri Lankan driving and some petty theft in Colombo or around tourist sights. The security situation is still obviously tense in central Colombo and around major tourist sights, and photography is limited or prohibited anywhere with a military presence. You are occasionally warned against travel to north or east of the island (apart from Trincomalee, Nilaveli and Arugam Bay, which are normally fine). Remember that much of the north and east of Sri Lanka remains heavily mined, particularly around the A9 road to Jaffna.

• Hot/cold, wet and dry: For such a small country, a surprising amount of variation. The hill country in the centre is significantly cooler than the coast, or northern plains, but nowhere does it get cold. The two monsoons strike the west in April and May plus October and November. The east is hit in November and December. The hill country gets a more even dousing of rain year-round. About the only thing you can depend on is, apart from in the highlands, it's going to be pretty warm.

• Costs: More expensive than India, but not as high as Brazil or Argentina. Thailand is perhaps a good approximation. Certainly 30USD/day is adequate if public transport is used, but for diving and in package resorts, as ever, you can spend what you like. Food is fantastic at tourist centres but the cost of can add up, particularly if you have a taste for prawns etc. Entrance fees also add up with a ticket to the country's main attractions costing USD40.

• Money: Any major, hard currency travellers cheques or cash are fine. ATMs (all over the place) and credit cards can be used in major banks.

• Guide book: LP Sri Lanka is the main guide aimed at budget travellers, and seems up-to-date and reliable, but very widely used. Some prefer the Footprint version. Both are good.

• People vibe:

  • Locals: Most Sri Lankans are charming, helpful and much less hassle than in India.  The level of spoken English is good, and most signs are bi-lingual. Even the touts usually leave you alone if you ask them nicely.

  • Other travellers: Mostly northern European package tourists on the beaches and in ancient cities, fewer elsewhere.

• Tourist factor: 8/10 on the beaches, 5/10 elsewhere.

• Accommodation: Plenty of guest houses in tourist areas, most with mosquito nets. 3 or 4 star package tourist rooms with AC can often be had for 20USD

  • Hot water: Normally in any but the cheapest rooms, but always ask before you pay.

  • Average cost: From 6USD to average mid-range double 10-15USD. AC adds to the cost if you can find it, but generally good value accommodation is plentiful, particularly if looking away from guidebook recommendations. Off season expect some great bargains.

• Media:

  • Books: Some towns have English-language bookstores, but these can be disappointing, filled with old, decaying school textbooks or second-rate 19^th century novel. Colombo has a good selection, as does Kandy, and international newspapers can be found there too.

  • TV: Cable TV, Sky news and major sporting events, such as English football on ESPN. Cricket coverage everywhere.

• Rating: 7/10

The best source of planning information is Trailblazer's 'Asia Overland', which is superb; there are many other resources.

For a full list of planning guides, recommended guide books and reading material, please click here.

 

 

Remember, this is only a take (an overview if you will); very few get the chance to see every inch of every country or have the time to get everyone's opinion (you are welcome and encouraged to mail in yours). Please, please if you have been anywhere recently send your comments to contribute and help keep all information fresh for future travellers. Or if you are about to head off remember this site when you return and put a few lines in an e-mail to let us know if things have changed.

'It's a small world. So you gotta use your elbows a lot.'

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