Indonesia, Philippines and Cambodia: travelling in Southeast Asia

In recent years, Southeast Asia has become a magnet for tourists from all over the world. With its guaranteed change of scenery, low prices and superb natural landscapes, it's sure to make you want to go. Here's all our advice and useful information to help you make the most of your trip to Indonesia, the Philippines or Cambodia.

Where to go in Southeast Asia?

This vast region of the world stretches from India to southern China. With no fewer than 11 countries, Southeast Asia is becoming increasingly attractive, and you can visit Burma, Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, East Timor and Vietnam.

Let's take a closer look at 3 of these countries that are among travelers' favorites: Indonesia, the Philippines and Cambodia.

Travelling to Cambodia

It's not for nothing that Cambodia is nicknamed the Land of Smiles, as it delights all tourists who come here to discover the temples of Angkor (UNESCO) or the hiking trails of Phnom Kulen.

>> Leave well insured in Asia. Calculate your travel insurance premium here <<

Travelling to Cambodia: VISA

A VISA is required to enter Cambodia. You can easily obtain one on arrival at Phnom Penh or Siem Reap airport. It is valid for 1 month. You'll need to provide the following documents: your passport, valid for at least 6 months beyond your departure date, a passport-size photo (4x6) and US$30. You can now apply for this VISA in advance online (e-VISA). Please note that you can extend your tourist VISA for a further 1 month by applying to Phnom Penh Immigration.

Travelling to Indonesia

The world's most populous archipelago is the stuff of dreams, with no fewer than 13,000 islands (over 900 inhabited). Paradise beaches, surfing spots, a rich multicultural mix, lush nature and exceptional wildlife (rhinoceroses, orangutans, elephants, leopards...): there's plenty to do!

Travelling to Indonesia: VISA

You don't need to do this in advance, as you'll get a "visa on arrival" as soon as you arrive in the country. It's valid for 30 days, and all you need is a valid passport, a return ticket and 35 USD. Once there, if you wish, you can renew your VISA for 1 month with the immigration authorities.

>> Leave well insured in Asia. Calculate your travel insurance premium here <<

Going to the Philippines

A complete change of scenery in this country lined with white sandy beaches, where you can also discover the jungle, rice terraces and some interesting towns. Travel to the heart of nature and discover a traditional culture with multiple influences in this archipelago of the Philippines. Before you leave, be sure to find out about the country's security zones and the safety rules to adopt.

VISAs are free on arrival in the country for nationals of 157 listed countries (including Switzerland). All you need is a valid passport (valid for at least 6 months at the time of entry) and an exit flight within 30 days. You will also need to fill in the new eTravel digital form, which you should complete at least 72 hours before your departure for the Philippines. You can find this form here: https://etravel.gov.ph/. You will be given a QR code to show on arrival.

When should you travel to South-East Asia?

This region of the world is so vast that the climate varies from country to country. More generally, however, you should try to avoid the monsoon period, with its intense heat and rain.

For Cambodia: aim for November to April.

Indonesia: May to October.

For the Philippines: December to February.

What budget should I allow for a 2-month trip to Asia?

The cost of living in these Asian countries is much lower than in Switzerland. To treat yourself and make the most of the good food, comfortable accommodation and transport, allow around CHF50 per person per day.

>> Leave well insured in Asia. Calculate your travel insurance premium here <<

What travel insurance should I take out for South-East Asia?

We strongly advise you to take out adequate travel insurance in these countries to cover unforeseen and urgent health expenses. But that's not all!

Medical expenses in South-East Asia

If you do not have insurance, your health costs will not be covered in Cambodia, Indonesia or the Philippines. In the event of repatriation, you will have to pay out of your own pocket. If you have an emergency, even a life-threatening one, you will have to pay in advance to access treatment.

For example, Indonesian hospitals will not treat you until they have an agreement from your insurance company or at least a credit card number to debit.

With Europ Assistance's Comfort travel insurance, you are covered for your medical expenses up to CHF 250,000, you benefit from 24-hour assistance with unlimited emergency transport and repatriation, and you are also insured in the event of problems with your luggage, if you have to cancel your trip, and so on. 

Are there any compulsory vaccinations for travelling to South-East Asia?

There are no compulsory vaccinations for entering Cambodia, Indonesia or the Philippines. We always recommend checking that you are up to date with your usual vaccinations (DTP and MMR). Depending on the conditions of your trip there, other vaccinations may be recommended, such as against typhoid fever, hepatitis A and B, rabies and Japanese encephalitis. Consult your doctor before you leave.

Don't forget to protect yourself against mosquitoes, which can transmit diseases such as Zika, malaria, Japanese encephalitis and dengue fever. Wear clothes that cover your body well and spray them with insecticide.

Here are the emergency numbers in South-East Asia:

Cambodia: 119

Indonesia: 112

Philippines: 911

>> Leave well insured in Asia. Calculate your travel insurance premium here <<