Traveling overland between countries can be an exhilarating and eye-opening experience, providing a unique perspective on the transition between different cultures and landscapes. Here’s a detailed look at what it’s like to cross international borders by road from Vietnam to Cambodia and then from Cambodia to Thailand.
Vietnam 🇻🇳 to Cambodia 🇰🇭
The journey from Vietnam to Cambodia typically starts in Ho Chi Minh City or another major city near the border. We started our journey from Ho Chi Minh City in the morning around 10 am. We boarded our bus, handed over the passports to the border crossing facilitator who checked the papers. The drive to the border crossing offered a chance to observe the changing scenery as you leave the bustling streets of Vietnam behind and head towards the quieter Cambodian countryside. We crossed the border at Moc Bai-Bavet Checkpoint.
The border was busy yet organized where travelers from various countries converged. The process began with a check of our travel documents. We presented our passports, e-visas to the authorities. The Vietnamese exit procedure was relatively straightforward, involving a quick stamp in our passports.
After completing the exit formalities, we took our bus across the border into Cambodia. The transition was marked by a noticeable change in architecture, language, and signage. The Cambodian side of the border had a more relaxed atmosphere compared to its Vietnamese counterpart.
Cambodian Entry:
At the Cambodian immigration office, we went through another round of paperwork. Here, our passports were stamped with a Cambodian entry visa, which can be obtained either in advance or on arrival, depending on your nationality, we had e-visas. The process took a bit of time, but the staff were courteous. Once our papers were checked, we got our passports stamped confirming our entry into Cambodia.
Cambodia 🇰🇭 to Thailand 🇹🇭
We took our bus from Siem Reap, to cross border from Cambodia to Thailand via the Aranyaprathet-Poipet border crossing. The bus journey was enjoyable as they had free WiFi, pantry with a coffee machine and snacks. The drive offered a scenic route through the Cambodian countryside, transitioning from rural landscapes to the bustling border area.
We arrived at the Poipet-Aranyaprathet checkpoint, the area was bustling with travelers and traders. The Cambodian exit process involves round of checks and a final exit stamp in your passport as you leave Cambodia. The exit formalities were slow due to the volume of travelers, and the office was understaffed.
Thai Entry:
After crossing the border by a short walk, we entered Thailand. The Thai immigration office is well-organized. We handed over our passports, stay proofs and return ticket for entry. The Thai officer who processed our paperwork was very kind and we got our passports stamped with a Thai entry visa. Depending on your nationality and the type of visa you hold, the process may vary, but it generally proceeds smoothly.
If you're not Thai or Cambodian, it's important to note that foreign tourists are directed upstairs in Thai Immigration offices. Meanwhile, Thais enjoy air-conditioned comfort downstairs without having to climb any stairs. Outside, Cambodians with border passes, who are entering Thailand for work, have to wait in line under the sun.
Note: Thailand drives on the left, while Cambodia drives on the right, and the entry and exit points are on opposite sides of the road.
The Thai side of the border is characterized by its distinctive signage, language, and vibrant energy. From here, we continued our journey to Bangkok.
Overall Experience
Crossing international borders by road offered a unique glimpse into the administrative and cultural transitions between countries. Each border crossing comes with its own set of procedures, but the experience is generally straightforward and manageable. The process of getting our passport stamped and navigating the border formalities added a layer of adventure and excitement to our travel journey.
Wow!! You experienced it all!!