Southeast Asia

Immunization
Malaria is a problem in Southeast Asia at certain times of the year, varying in different places with the rainy season. Lariam is the current medication for Malaria prevention. You will need a prescription for the tablets. Lariam can have uncomfortable side-effects, especially if it not taken as directed, with a full stomach after eating and drinking. Hepatitis A is a problem also, and there is a single-dose vaccine with a booster available. You may want to consider a new oral typhoid fever vaccine. The cholera vaccination has limited short-term effectiveness. Basically, consult with your physician and determine the level of protection you are comfortable with.

Water
It is dangerous to drink water in the southeastern Asia. You should better purchase bottled water which should be safe.  If you do not have an opportunity to buy water in bottles, better drink hot drinks such as tea or coffee, you can also drink beer. We also advice you not to drink any drinks with ice even in the best hotels where it thought to be safe. Try not to eat fresh fruit and vegetables which may have been washed in water. Eat only fruits and vegetables you can peel. In most hotel rooms you will find thermos with boiled water. You can make tea or brush your teeth with it.
Clothing
It will be the best to take clothing which washes easily and dries fast. It is hot all year round in most of the places. Bring shorts, T-shirts and hats. Try to avoid too short shorts. You will be able to wear such clothe\s everywhere except royal palace. Bring a swimsuit but not a bikini as it is not acceptable in most of the places.

What to bring
Recommended items: a small flashlight, camera, extra camera batteries, one roll of toilet paper, small packets of facial tissues, wet-wipes, toiletries including dental floss, small and inexpensive gift items for children and people you meet, business cards (businessmen love to exchange them). For the plane ride, long drives or down time, bring a deck of cards, a pocket-sized chess set, or a book to read.