Country Travel Reports on Gov't website

[twisted_tbar]

I have a very rough itinerary since my trip is 8-9 months away. But here it is:
Newzealand, Austrailia (probably gonna stay there and work for a while), Indonasia, Malaysia, Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, Thailand, Burma. I'm gonna give it about 7-9 months and $8000 to start off (excluding the money I'm gonna make in AZ) ....But i was reading something the other day that made me think twice about my itinerary: http://www.voyage.gc.ca/dest/ctry/reportpage-en.asp
some of these reviews are harsh!! Take Laos and Cambodia for example.
In short, as someone whoes never been to those places, I am a little freaked out and was thinking of cutting risky places out.
Am I just being paranoid or is it really that dangerouse for backpackers in some places?
Also, does this seem doable to you? and what are some cities/region u recommend visiting in these countries?

[space virgin]

Don't cut them out just because of a few haters!! There will ALWAYS be people who dislike just about any single destination you can possibly think of on the planet. I say screw the "reviews" and go anyway. Take a peek around here, do a search on the countries you're considering skipping-- there are several people who have been to Laos and Cambodia and all of the others on your list and loved it.

Here's some perspective: A female friend of mine just got back from three weeks in Kabul, Afghanistan. She went with a women's human rights organization. Outside of Iraq, I'm not sure there are too many places in the world where it's quite as dangerous for a very pretty, VERY caucasian woman to travel. The verdict: she loved it and has plans to go back. And, um, it's almost certain that Afghanistan is at least on the Top 10 of "Risky" Travel Destinations, whatever the criteria for "risky" may be.

Keep your wits about you and you'll not only be fine, you'll have an amazing time off the beaten path. Good luck and take tons of photos!!

[Esterina]

The site you're mentioning is a bible to help you prepare your itinerary INSIDE countries. I've been to Laos, and had prior to my trip consulted the same site, and like yourself, starting feeling less assure. However, the more risky areas are very limited in both Laos and Cambodia. Simply avoid the "dangerous" routes for a safe travel. If you want to dare into the unadvised routes, find a local guide to help.

This site's duty is to list all "restricted areas", so browing through it is depressing and one feels like staying home... but beside coutries that are entirely not recommended, I'd go anywhere in the world if I were you !

[twisted_tbar]

pheeeeeew! I feel much better now!
what do u think about the time and budget? I'm really flexible...want to really experience the cultures therefore am willing to extend my trip to up to 1 year. Then again that's budget permitting. I don't wonna come back to a huge debt... 'cuz i'm gonna go back to school.

[twisted_tbar]

....any one?! Pro's? cons?

[Esterina]

Twisted, I have lots to say, but I'll be very busy for the next two weeks. In the meantime, maybe others will answer, but I'll do it for sure when I can find time ! There are however lots of infos already on the boards, and especially those :

Asia
Budget

Have fun reading and see you in two weeks !

[twisted_tbar]

Thanx atchoum... i got some good info out of those links but can't wait to hear more! Although I think I'm trying to know too much (if that's possible at all) ...think I should let somethings to be discovered when i actually get there