Asia
Visas
US citizens must have a valid passport that must not expire within six months of the scheduled departure date from Asia. US citizens must obtain a visa to many countries in Asia. Your Travel Professional can assist with providing the required paperwork, but it is the responsibility of the passenger to ensure that they have all of the requisite visas for the trip. For all other nationalities, please check with the appropriate consular authority. Some countries in Asia require US Citizens to obtain visitor visas prior to traveling, for more information and to download information & forms please visit the Zierer Visa Service website.>> Back to the Top
Health
Depending upon which areas in Asia you visit, certain vaccinations may be necessary or at least recommended. We suggest you see your doctor at least 4–6 weeks before your trip to allow time for any necessary shots to take effect.>> Back to the Top
Currency Exchange
Currency Exchange facilities are available for all incoming and outgoing international flights. It is recommended to cash traveler’s checks or exchange currency at banks, as the exchange rate is more favorable and the fee less than in hotels. Credit cards are widely in use, but may not be particularly welcome in remote areas or in small shops.>> Back to the Top
Electricity
You can take your electrical appliances with you however you should note that the electric current may be different from the USA, and will therefore require an adapter to convert the current. The power outlet is also different than in the USA, so you will need an adapter.>> Back to the Top
Tipping
Some people believe that tipping has become very popular in some parts of Asia, including China though the Chinese Government does not encourage it. It is suggested at $5/per person, per/day, as tips for all the tour leaders, national and local guides, hotel bellboys and coach drivers; as a gratuity for their service. Usually the tour leader/national guide will collect the tips for the entire journey on the first day of your tour.The reverse opinion is that tipping is a sensitive topic in the Far East, where breaches of social convention are taken more personally than they would be in the West.
In Japan, tipping is never expected. If you wish to offer one for exceptional service, it should be sealed in a decorative envelope and formally presented as a gift. In southern Vietnam, tipping is officially outlawed, but a discrete 10 percent tip is expected in restaurants. The best advice here is to observe the locals, try to get someone in the know to assess the situation, and pay attention to hints dropped by service staff. In most other Asian countries, including South Korea and Thailand, service charges may or may not be included in hotel and restaurant bills, but in any case, further tips are generally not expected.
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