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Southeast Asia Shore Excursions FAQ

Southeast Asia Shore Excursions FAQ

By CindyUpdated Sep. 12, 2023

Find below the most frequently asked questions on Southeast Asia shore excursions and pick-up services.

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Shore Excursions

Q : What exactly are shore excursions?

A : Shore excursions are organized tours and activities at a cruise ship's port of call. Our excursion programs are based on those suggested by the popular cruise lines and cover the classic highlights or unique experiences at your ports of call.

Q: How does a shore excursion proceed?

A : On docking at the seaport, you just disembark from the ship and walk to the arrivals lounge, where our guide will be waiting for you with your name written on a welcome board. Get on a car and start your journey of discovery. When finished with the tour, you will be transferred back to the ship.

Q: What does a shore excursion include?

A : These organized tours include guide and transfer service and any admission fees to the sightseeing places on the itinerary. Some include lunch. Precise information as to what is included will be clarified when you book the tour.

Q: Why book with Asia Highlights?

A : You'll have your trips customized as we do things your way and help you create your own itinerary. Our trip advisors will do all the hard work to take care of you and to provide a unique and private service based on your requirements.

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Visa

Q : Are there any requirements for visiting certain ports, such as preparation of visas in advance?

A : We recommend that you check about this with the cruise company, as ports of call will be arranged by the company. They will give details about visa requirements for each country where the ship docks. For some countries without visa-on-arrival provisions, you'll have to apply for visas in advance.

Q : What travel documents do I need to pass the port check?

A : We recommend that you also check about this with the cruise company. Normally, you'll need a passport with at least 6 months' validity, one or two passport-sized photos, and some application forms to be filled out, which the ship's officers will give you. Once your visa is stamped, you just disembark from the ship and walk to the arrivals lounge.

Pick Up Service

Q : How do I pass the port check?

A : On arrival at the port, all passengers should remain seated, and wait for immigration officers to board and stamp their visas. Passengers will then be invited to disembark.

Q : How can I meet the guide?

A : Follow the walkway to the terminal where you'll find your Asia Highlights guide, waiting with a welcome board, with clients' names written on the board.

Q : What kind of vehicle do you use for pick-up?

A : This depends on the group size and the amount of luggage. It also differs from port to port. Vehicle information will be clarified when you book the tour. For example: 1-2 passengers would use a 4-seat car; 3-6 passengers would use a 12-15-seat van; and 7-12 passengers would use a 25-seat bus.

Q :Will drinking water be available on the car?

A : Yes, we will provide mineral water and sometimes wet tissues.

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Guide and Driver

Q : How long will my guide be with me?

A : It depends on your tour. A half-day tour usually takes 4 hours and a day-tour 8 hours. Your guide will be with you from the time of pick-up to the time you are brought back to the port.

Q : Will the guide and driver help me with baggage?

A : Sure, they'll be glad to.

Q : Can I have a French-speaking guide?

A : Yes. English-speaking guides are most popular, but we also provide German-, Spanish-, French-, or Russian-speaking guides.

Q : How to tip?

A : Tipping is not mandatory. If you feel satisfied with the service, you may tip any amount you think appropriate. Our suggestion is $10 USD per day for a guide and half that for a driver.

Food

Q: Can you arrange vegetarian food for us?

A : Yes. If you have any special requirements with respect to food or drinks, just tell your trip advisor when booking.

Q: Could we have gluten-free food?

A : Yes. No problem.

Shopping

Q : Will our guide take us to stores?

A : No. Your guide will show you around according to your itinerary. If you feel like shopping, just ask your guide for some recommendations

Continue to read:

Top Cruise Ports in Southeast Asia

Top Southeast Asia Shore Excursions

Plan Your Southeast Asia Trip with Asia Highlights

Our travel advisors are very glad to give you suggestions on shore excursions. They can tailor-make your trip according to your preference and make good connections between different countries.

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  • Unique experiences tailored to your interests: Enjoy a premium trip that goes beyond the typical tourist attractions.
  • Hassle-free travel and peace of mind: Every aspect of your trip will be carefully planned and organized by your 1:1 travel consultant.
  • Experienced and knowledgeable guides: Your guides will be local and love to work for travelers' smiles.
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