Southeast Asia travel: A guide to overland border crossings

Sun, 04/15/2012 - 23:12 — Anonymous by Merritt GurleyFlying might be quick,
but to really get a real feel for Southeast Asia, try rolling old-school and
make your way through the region on the ground, where you'll gain a better
understanding of the varying landscapes and cultures across the region. There
is a variety of popular routes. For instance, it's possible to follow the
Mekong River from China's Yunnan province to Vietnam through Burma, Laos,
Thailand and Cambodia. But as with any form of adventuring, there are
drawbacks. When traveling overland you will deal with a whole mess of border
crossings, which can mean smooth sailing or a huge headache, depending on
your level of preparation. Here are a few tips on how to make it across a
land border with as little hassle as possible.  Manage your expectations An
overland trip can provide a window into ground-level daily life. That daily
life may include bumpy roads, long lines and unexpected detours.read more