FAQ's
ANY QUESTIONS
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Why should I travel with you?
Our challenges are life changing. People return from our trips and leave their jobs for their dream career path, start new relationships, end relationships, get married, go travelling and other life-changing things. There are also the little things that people may not realise instantly following their experience, such as having their eyes opened to the poverty in certain parts of the world, or inspiring them to learn a language or learn more about the culture of the country they visit. Some people simply just enjoy a break from the norm and the opportunity to do something a bit different on their holiday. Our trips are fully supported so all you have to do is enjoy the experience so you don’t have to worry about any logistics and can go with the flow. We use local guides to provide you with expert knowledge on the region you are visiting and an insight into local culture and we always ensure that the local staff are well paid and treated fairly.
How is Asia Backroads able to offer such competitive prices?
Our unique style of off the beaten track, face-to-face travel is the only way to really experience a destination, but it also serves to keep the costs down. We spend your money providing an authentic experience, instead of on lavish hotels and expensive western-style meals. We pass these savings on to you with our low prices. Another thing you’ll notice are the inclusions. While we don’t include everything, we do throw in the major highlights of a destination, the things that everyone goes to see. On every trip page we show you the ‘Included Highlights’ of your trip, things that many other companies charge locally for. We leave many other activities as options, to provide you the freedom and flexibility to choose what you want to do on a daily basis.
How does your price compare to your competitors?
Our pricing is very competitive. Unlike a lot of our competitors, with us you get so much more than a bus pass. You get accommodation, transport, a unique guide and so much more. Each tour details what you get for your money!
What does Asia Backroads do to support responsible travel?
We recognize that tourism can provide income to local people, conserve the environment, and promote understanding of other cultures.
Why do your trips seem more expensive than other companies?
Our prices are comparable in price to the ‘Comfort’ tours advertised by other companies. We believe if you compare like for like, your holidays are way better value for money. Smaller groups mean the tours are a little more expensive but it means we can deliver a much more intimate and personal holiday.
How can I pay for my tour?
We are happy to accept Visa, Master card as well as bank transfer If you are having any problems, please call or contact us by e-mail.
What is not included in the tour price?
The land price does not include air travel, airline fees, airport or departure taxes, transfers, visas, customary end of trip gratuities for your tour manager, driver, local guides, hotel housekeepers and any incidental charges.
What are your tipping guidelines?
Please bear in mind these are only guidelines and tipping is not required but always appreciated.
We recommend tipping in the local currency, except in Cambodia where US dollars are more widely used. Otherwise, the recipient of your tips will need to convert the money before being able to use it.
Try and keep some small notes available for tipping hotel porters etc., and remember that tips are smaller here than in the USA. Minimum wage is about $120 per month – keep tips in perspective. To simplify tipping, we recommend tipping your guide and driver in a lump sum at the end of your time in each location just before you move on to your next destination. Feel free to adjust our guidelines if you have been given better than usual service or to not tip if it has not been justified. When giving tips to guides or drivers, it is appropriate to place the tip in an envelope before delivering it.
Guide: 10$ – $15 per day for a group of 1 – 4
Driver: $5 – $10 per day for a group of 1 – 4
Room staff: $2+ per day, depending on services
Restaurants: 10-20% at western restaurants, tipping is not expected at local food stalls.
Small services such as carrying bags, room service etc: $1 – $2
How much money do I need bring on the tour?
You might want to budget for food and drinks if you choose to head out at night, or additional activities. The cost of the activities depends on what you are wanting to do. We would recommend you to bring 20$ cash per day.
I am traveling alone is that ok?
Absolutely! You will be in good accompany, You’ll have the freedom to the destination you want to visit and do something you interested in.
What type of ground transportation is used?
Generally we use high quality private mini-buses to get from A to B. However, if this is a long distance then we opt for flights instead.
Do I need travel insurance when taking your tours?
Yes, it is extremely important that you have your own travel insurance that covers all medical expenses.
How big are your tour groups?
We keep all our small tour from 1-12 people and big group tour from 15 to 30pax at time. This enables your guides to ensure your safety and comfort at all times.
STILL HAVE A QUESTION?
Feel free to ask any remaining questions or concerns you may have and we will get back to you!
GO TRAVEL. DISCOVER. REMEMBER US!!
LEAD BY LOCAL GUIDES
They are full of personality with a passion to share authentic local experience
UNFORGETTABLE EXPERIENCE
Our tour includes unique experience with much focus on the authentic values of local life and cultures
BENIFIT LOCALS
By choosing to take our tour you will be inevitably be contributing to the local communities we engage with on a regular basis.
SMALL GROUP & PRIVATE TOURS
Group tours average just 12 people & various private trip options are available too