Thailand's political unrest: GAIN for INDO-CHINA

According to a Straits Times report, the political unrest in Thailand has made travellers from Singapore look at other travel destinations like Vietnam, Laos and Cambodia.

Those who have not travelled to Indochina will be pleasantly surprised at how affordable these countries are apart from the fact that they're just a short plane ride away.

Having been under France's colonial rule, these countries still retain traces of French influence. To me the best example are the cosy cafes, especially in Vietnam.

Unless you're on Forbes list as one of the richest in Singapore, most people think of cost when they travel. Having travelled in all the Indo-Chinese countries, I can tell you that the cost of accommodation, food and transport is extremely affordable as pointed out earlier. I hesitate to say "dirt-cheap".

For instance, for US $5 to $15 you can get a nice double room with an attached shower and toilet (even air-conditioning at the higher end).

Venturing a bit further is the gem of an island in Sri Lanka. Travel features in newspapers and magazines routinely rave about the island.

So Thailand's loss is other countries' gain.

Unmistakable example of French influence in Laos. Do you know why?

                                Vang Vieng in Laos will reward those who make the effort to get there.

Saigon (Ho Chi Minh) street life

Pedestrians brave the street clogged with bikes.
Bikes to the left, right and centre.

Anyone who sets foot in Saigon always exclaims, "Wow, so many motor-bikes!"

This is definite proof that such a person has good eyesight. An estimated 20 million bikes buzz up and down the country, in the cities, towns and countryside. Where there is anything that can support two wheels, there you will see a bike.

To own a bike is a status symbol especially among young people who dominate Vietnam's populace.

The noise generated by the millions of bikes is a backdrop against which Vietnamese go about their daily life. Sitting on little stools while sipping tea or an iced soft drink they watch the world go by, noisily.

I suspect they look on the bike-clogged streets with some measure of pride. Good for you Vietnam. You have come a long way.