Asia For Expats

Why Asia for Expats

As expats living, working and travelling throughout Asia we know what is truly remarkable about our destinations. Being part of this community has allowed us to discover breathtaking places, meet fantastic people, hear astonishing stories, eat heavenly local food and take part in fascinating activities and local traditions. This is what we want for all our clients; Asia for Expats is committed to ensure you experience Asia this way

Southeast Asia is a very heterogeneous region; there is infinity of places, experiences, activities, attractions, restaurants, hotels and things to do that evoke different feelings and emotions in each traveller. Unfortunately most tour companies keep taking visitors to the same tourist traps and using the same itineraries, depriving them of an authentic travel experience.

Our local experience allows us to determine the most suitable options for you. We will make sure you make the most of your time and experience the best of Asia without feeling rushed. Flexibility is the name of the game; we encourage our clients to set the pace of the trip, the focus on specific interests and to let us know of any requirement they feel would make their holidays more enjoyable.

AFE Travel Style

In Asia for Expats we value true flexibility and cultural understanding. Whether our guests prefer luxurious accommodation or an eye-opening experience in a rural home stay, we are committed to deliver an authentic journey where they can make the most out their time in Asia. We believe there is no real travel experience without digging into the local culture; this is when your AFE local guide comes in handy.

Our itineraries are the ‘back-bones’ of our travellers’ experiences. They are short programmes without unnecessary overnight stays that serve as a base for you to explore your preferred activities, extensions and tour combinations. There is no ‘one size fits all’; your holidays should please your interests, pace, time available and energy levels.

Our guides are extraordinary people with extensive knowledge about the local tourism dynamics. They will make sure you have an authentic experience, answering all your questions and addressing your requests on the ground. Together we have developed AFE travel concept, putting our guests’ desires firsts and always working as a team to make things happen. We are very proud to work with them and to have them as part of our family.

We make sure to keep up to date with our partners’ business models and quality delivered. They have been selected based on our own experience in these lands, keeping open communication channels, giving and receiving feedback whenever possible and aiming for the highest standards. There are a large numbers of restaurants, hotels and activities around here; we will advise you and give you our top picks if requested but the final word is yours.

Responsible Travel

Living and working in Southeast Asia is an amazing experience, however it doesn’t come without challenges and responsibilities. There are many aspects of the local culture, politics, environment and tourism industry that we have to learn about every day. In this section we avoid political correctness and get down to the facts.

We believe responsible tourism is a behaviour; a concept in which stakeholders and customers are responsible for the kind of tourism they engage in. Responsible tourism should entail improvement; the objective is to create better places for people to live in and better places to visit. However the approach may differ depending on geographical and cultural factors.

True responsible travel not only comprises our practices as a company but also our guests’ efforts to avoid making a negative impact during their holidays. Travelers should be able to enjoy their holidays and at the same time respect the culture, people and environment. Similarly, local people should always have a say about tourism activities and be able to generate profit from them.

Travelling responsibly involves what we do before, during and after our trip.  Learning about local manners and greetings, disconnecting all unnecessary electrical items at home and packing appropriate clothes that are not offensive to others are part of a large list of things we can do to travel responsibly.

Any kind of tourism activity creates an impact. We try to maximise the positive and minimise the negative by working in cooperation with our guests and partners.

Environment

When it comes to Mother Nature there are no borders. The same basic conservation principles apply in your home country and here in Southeast Asia (our home).

• Turn off and disconnect any unnecessary electrical items in your home while you are away including chargers, TV, hot water and ovens. Also remember to turn the fridge down if no one is going to open it for a few days.
• Once in your accommodation remember to switch off the air conditioning and lights when you leave the room. Also, remember to disconnect chargers when you are not using them or when the device is fully charged.
• Some places in Southeast Asia lack appropriate waste collection systems. Avoid disposable packaging whenever possible and don’t litter; this is our home too.
• In the outdoors remember to collect your litter and take it away with you. This includes food scraps and cigarette butts.
• Avoid removing plants or any object from cultural, historical and natural sites. These are part of the experience, not a souvenir.
• When trekking and hiking please stick to the pathway and follow the indications of your guide. This is not only for your own safety but also helps reduce environmental impact.
• Please avoid polluting vital water sources at all time and use only biodegradable soaps in outdoor areas.
• Drinking water in Southeast Asia is mostly supplied in plastic bottles. The amount of waste generated by these is a huge problem in some locations. Please re-use your bottles whenever possible or consider buying a larger bottle of potable water to re-fill your drink bottle.

Fauna

Southeast Asia is home to some of the most diverse wildlife and unique ecosystems in the world. Unfortunately there are many endangered species in the area and it is everyone’s responsibility to contribute towards the conservation of their habitats.

• Please do not feed wild animals. Feeding wild fauna can put you and your family on risk of diseases and bites. We strongly recommend avoiding touching wildlife and domestic animals during your trip.
• If you witness mistreatment of wildlife during your trip please communicate this to your guide and let us know as soon as you can. Our guides are trained to receive your feedback and it is the only way for us to take action.
• During wildlife experiences follow your guide’s instructions and keep an eye on your children at all times.

Cultural sensitivity

Being aware of cultural differences and similarities between people without assigning them a value is essential for a good traveller. Some people may find challenging to embrace the fact that their culture is no better than any other culture, however this allow the traveller to discover the true beauty of an authentic travel experience.

• Take the time to research about cultural, religious and environmental aspects of your destination. We will send you an information pack when you book with AFE, however the more informed you are the better; it will make your trip easier and more enjoyable.
• Always ask for permission before taking a picture of anyone. In most cases showing your camera and nodding with raised eyebrows is enough.
• We strongly recommend not giving money to beggars. This is a complex issue that unfortunately won’t stop by continuing the cycle. If you wish to make a donation or a more meaningful contribution your guide can point you in the right direction. You can also let us know in advance and we will help you finding the right cause.
• Please respect local customs. You can always ask your guide if you have doubts.
• Make sure to wear appropriate clothes when visiting religious and cultural sites.
• Be aware of scams involving beggars, ‘tea money’ and doubtful fees. Always consult with your guide before offering money to anyone.