Ask an expert: The best time to visit Southeast Asia

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A view of Cambodia's famous Angkor Wat temple.

A view of Cambodia's famous Angkor Wat temple.

Q. I am a runner and I am going to be travelling around Southeast Asia for a few months, leaving in December. I have no idea of what gear I need to take and there is nothing to be found on the internet! Is anywhere cold in Southeast Asia and where do I need to cover up?

A. December is an ideal time to travel to Southeast Asia – you're in for some lovely dry, hot weather. The mornings are the best time to be out and about as by midday the heat can be quite intense. Make sure you remain hydrated and carry bottled water with you at all times. Higher altitudes such as northern parts of Thailand will be cooler, especially overnight when the temperature can drop significantly, so make sure you bring an extra warm layer of clothing for the evenings.

If you wish to run outdoors, use local parks or public running tracks where possible as the chaotic city streets can be quite hazardous. Your House of Travel consultant can help you identify the best running tracks and/or accommodation with a fully equipped gym if this an essential part of your travels.

Southeast Asia is also the ideal destination for active travellers to cycle, whether as part of an organised cycling tour or hiring a bike for the day to explore iconic places, such as Angkor Wat in Cambodia.

When sightseeing, expect to remove your shoes before entering temples and shoulders, elbows and knees must be fully covered. Having a spare light-weight long-sleeve top and pants in your daypack is a great way to quickly able cover up before going into a sacred site as necessary, and still remain dressed cooler throughout the rest of the day. Women can rely on carrying a large scarf and sarong to cover up as long as no skin is showing.

- Lisa Crawford, House of Travel Lower Hutt

Got a travel question? We can help. Email your name, address and phone number to escape@star-times.co.nz with Expert in the subject line. House of Travel is giving away a $100 voucher, redeemable in store, for the best question each month.

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 - Stuff


Source: Ask an expert: The best time to visit Southeast Asia

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