Around all the backpacker accommodation you see adverts for VIP transfers by air conditioned express mini vans. This can include the changes in transport required to get you to the popular tourist destinations. Happy days!
The downside …… hmm, where to begin:
– you may or may not really get an air conditioned vehicle. It could be a big bus, a mini van, a tuk tuk – who knows!
– you get herded around like a herd of sheep and are told little information.
– you will be promised a direct service, you may or may not get this.
– you will be dropped at a “bus station” miles away from anywhere to await your next bus. Here you will pay extortionate prices to use the loo, buy a drink, food etc.
– even though your bus ticket includes the boat transfer to the island, only when you get there will you find out if it really does or if you have to buy another boat ticket.
One thing is for sure -it certainly keeps you guessing.
Below is a photo of our direct air con mini-van today from Laos (Ban Nakasang). So glad the luggage and bikes came in with us. So far we have been on the road for 5 hours 45mins and changed buses 3 times. Not sure we will get to Siem Reap on time by 6pm as advertised tonight as we are once again waiting at a cafe in the middle of nowhere with no idea what is going on. Who knows!
