What to bring?

Comfortable lightweight clothing in cotton or other natural fabrics is the way to go in the tropics. Don’t forget if you are heading to Vietnam and Thailand in particular you can pick up shirts, jeans, shorts and just about any other item of clothing you can think of for a fraction of the price back home so don’t pack too much. A long-sleeved shirt and long pants for evenings is a good idea to ward off biting insects and a hat is essential for the day time.

The northern parts of Vietnam, Laos, Myanmar and Thailand can get a little chilly in winter so pack a sweater or two if going there. A light-weight raincoat or umbrella is handy if travelling in the rainy season although these can also be picked up very cheaply once in Asia. And remember to pack a good book or two to while away long journeys (or long hours on the beach) as the range of books available in Asia is probably not as great as back home.

To wear strong, easy to remove (for pagoda’s entrance) but light shoes are appreciated. For bathing, a sarong in a handy bag is pertinent.

Mosquito repellent and sunscreen are recommended.