Some basic information on what you need to know about visas in these regions. One thing that is the general rule of thumb is to have a passport that's valid for 6 months beyond for first day in the country you're visiting. Not all countries require this but most do. The visa process is getting easier and I've even heard talk of a possible ASEAN visa that would allow you to travel around the region of Southeast Asia on one visa. For now, you'll need to apply for visas either in advance or when you arrive in the country you're visiting. Also further to my talk on extending a visa if you are ever in doubt as to how long you want to visit a country for get the longest visa you can possibly obtain. If you're visiting Vietnam instead of a one month visa get a three month, they are almost the same cost. Extending the visa or doing a visa run can be costly and waste precious travel time. Same thing if you're going to Indonesia and you qualify for a 30 visa exemption. If you think you might want to stay longer pay the $35 and get a proper 30 day visa that's extendable. Also if you are ever feeling frustrated during the visa process at an airport or when you're being processed always remain calm, smile, and relax. Most of the time it's a pretty painless process but culturally it's not a good idea to get frustrated or become "short". Always be definitive in your answers, noone will hold you to it if you tell immigration you plan on staying two weeks and you decide to stay longer later. Also on your arrival card, if the country you are visiting requires you to fill one out, always have a hotel address to fill out the card. Even if you are just going to book something once you arrive in the city you'll just need an intended place you will be staying. Noone will ask you later if you chose not to stay there. Most of the time the immigration officer will just process your passport, stamp your visa and hand back your passport without saying anything. Thanks again for listening and if you have any other suggestions or questions for future episodes of the podcast please send me a note at john@fareasttravels.com
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