Backpacking SouthEast Asia: Tips for visiting Cambodia, Laos, Thailand and Vietnam Paperback – December 20, 2015

Lots of good, useful information

I had the opportunity of reading Mr. Swanepoel’s 'Backpacking Southeast Asia' guide prior to its availability on Amazon. That being said, I was eager to pen a quick review with my impression and thoughts. Firstly, I would characterize myself as a somewhat adventurous traveler, however, the idea of backpacking a foreign land, especially one so different from North America, causes me much trepidation. I’m more the type to hook up with a tour group to see the sights, but as this author points out, I would miss the ‘essence’ of Asia.This guide went a long way to bridle my fears and overcome my anxieties. I like having things laid out for me, and the step-by-step, instructional manner this book employs was ideal. Having someone who has walked the paths, ridden the buses and trains, and fallen victim to some of the scams, retains a value this reader could not over estimate. Still, I cannot see myself utilizing hostels, but if that’s your thing, Swanepoel removes the guesswork there as well.The writing is detailed but entertaining. Some of the author’s experiences left me shaking my head in amazement, and bewildered by his determination. The section on bed bugs had me scratching for days, yet it left me better informed and surprisingly prepared to avoid the nasty critters. I was also taken by the laws, corruption, and naivety of some travels…but most of all by the beauty of the people and places.This is a concise guide for anyone considering backpacking Southeast Asia and I would highly recommend it. My lasting impression is: ‘this is the only guide I’d need to have a wonderful vacation experience, and if it’s not in the guide I likely don’t need to worry about it’.

I thought this book would be helpful for the planning of my upcoming trip to SE Asia, its not. It just goes over very general, commonly known things about traveling. There is not that much specialized information about SE Asia. There were multiple typos, and some of the text was worded innapropriately (for example there was a section discussing how all people who sleep with you in SE Asia are sex workers),

A total waste of money. A traveler can get the same info which most is just common sense in a more concise travel publication.