Page 70 - Ancient Kingdoms: Thailand, Laos, Cambodia & Vietnam

Safety & Security

As you travel, exercise the same caution and awareness that you would in a large American
city. Don’t be overly nervous or suspicious, but keep your eyes open. If you are venturing out
after dark, go with one or two other people. Carry a one-day supply of cash in your pocket.
Carry most of your money, and your passport, in a travel pouch or money belt under your
shirt. Replenish your pocket supply when you are in a safe and quiet place, or in our vehicle.

Do not leave valuable items unattended in your room or on the bus. Almost all of our hotels
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a personal PIN number). Please utilize them.

Pickpockets may create a sudden distraction. In any sort of puzzling street situation, try to
keep one hand on your money belt. If an encounter with a local turns out to be long and
complicated and involves money or your valuables, be very careful. Con artists sometimes
target travelers.

Shopping

There may be scheduled visits to local shops during your adventure. There is no requirement
to make a purchase during these stops, and any purchase made is a direct transaction with
the shop in question, subject to the vendor’s terms of purchase. O.A.T. is not responsible for
purchases you make on your trip or for the shipment of your purchases.

Returns

If you discover an issue with an item, you should contact the vendor directly and expect that
any resolution will take longer than it would in the U.S. We recommend that you keep a copy
of all your receipts, invoices, or contracts, along with the shop’s contact information. Keep in
mind, local practice may vary from U.S. standards, so don’t assume that you have a certain
number of days after the purchase to speak up or that you are guaranteed a refund.

Crafts & Souvenirs

Thailand
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tribe handicrafts, including elaborate jewelry, colorful textiles, bronzeware cutlery, celadon
pottery, and Thai lacquerware. Bangkok is famous the world over for its street markets—
Pratunam, Chatuchak Park, Khlong Toey, Sampheng (Chinatown), Banglamphu, and many
more. Local products include hand-woven cottons, decorative items made of silver, teakwood
carvings, and gems. The best bargains in gems are jade, rubies, and sapphires, but buy from
reputable dealers only. Thai silk, renowned for its lush colors and pleasantly rough texture,
is considered some of the best in the world and can be purchased in the fabric shops of
Chiang Mai.

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bargaining is expected, especially at outdoor stalls.

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