Q. How do I make a reservation?
A. Simply use our online reservation request system and we will contact you regarding availability, total cost, payment and other details pertaining to your request. Or, you may contact us by phone, fax or e-mail to arrange your booking or to ask specific questions which are not addressed on this web site.
Q. How do I contact your office?
A. You may reach us at the following:
E-mail: info@emalaysiatravel.com
Phone: 1-877-757-5288 (toll free in the USA) or 1-618-453-2117 (international)
Fax: 1-618-453-2158
Q. How do I make payment?
A. For your convenience we offer two options for making payment in a secure manner.
Online secured server
Complete and submit. You will receive an automated reply to your email address advising receipt of payment.
Credit Card Authorization form
Print the form, complete as instructed and fax to the enclosed number. You will receive an email advising of receipt of payment and delivery date of tickets and/or travel documents.
Q. What is Road to Mandalay?
A. Road to Mandalay is a deluxe river cruiser operated by Venice Simplon-Orient-Express. Fitted to the high standards you would expect from Orient-Express, Road to Mandalay cruises the Irrawaddy river in Myanmar (Burma).
Q. Where does Road to Mandalay travel?
A. Along the Irrawaddy river in Myanmar (Burma) between Mandalay and Bagan with occasional longer cruises to Bhamo.
Q. How many days does a cruise last?
A. You can join Road to Mandalay for different lengths of time. The shortest cruise is 3 nights, but there are other options available up to 8 nights. The most common complaint from passengers who travel for 3 or 4 nights is that they wish they had booked for longer!
Q. Is Road to Mandalay similar to an "ocean-going" cruise ship?
A. No. Road to Mandalay is more intimate and passengers enjoy a number of opportunities to go ashore and explore Myanmar. The other main difference is in the entertainment. While you'll see none of the cabaret shows found on cruise ships, you will enjoy a relaxing pianist and more cultural entertainment that gives you an enhanced experience of this fascinating country.
Q. How much does a trip on Road to Mandalay cost?
A. For full details see our rates page or contact us.
Q. Are all my meals included?
A. Yes. While you are on board Road to Mandalay, all your meals are included. Breakfast, lunch and dinner are served in the Restaurant, while afternoon tea is served on the Observation Deck.
Q. Are drinks included in the price?
A. No. Alcoholic drinks are not included. Tea, regular coffee, soft drinks and bottled still water are available, complimentary at all times.
Q. Can you cater for special meal requirements?
A. We will do our best to cater for special dietary requirements such as vegetarian, vegan etc. provided a detailed request has been made at the time of booking. We do however regret that we are unable to provide meals requiring strict religious observance in the preparation.
Q. Are disabled people able to travel on the Road to Mandalay?
A. The ship itself and the sites visited on-shore are not suitable for wheel-chair bound passengers or those with severe walking difficulties. Passengers with slight walking difficulties should be escorted by an able-bodied passenger.
Q. What are the accommodations on board like?
A. All cabins are beautifully appointed with air-conditioning, en suite showers and toilet facilities. Each cabin also has a personal safe, telephone, hairdryers, and satellite T.V. with in-house video. Sockets are suitable for 2-pin round plugs (220 volts).
There are three grades of accommodation on board Road to Mandalay:
- Standard cabins are 11.25 square meters (121.09 square feet) with upper and lower berths
- Superior cabins are 11.25 square meters (121.09 square feet) with twin beds
- State cabins are 22.5 square meters (242.19 square feet) with twin beds, sofa, and a writing desk
Q. Will there be room in my cabin for all my luggage?
A. When you plan your packing, please bear in mind that all luggage must be stored in your cabin. In each cabin there is a wardrobe with hangers. There are no facilities for storage of luggage not required during your cruise. It is recommended that any excess luggage is stored at your hotel in Yangon or Bangkok.
Q. What do I take to wear on the the Road to Mandalay?
A. The atmosphere on board is relaxed. For dinner, appropriate dress is "smart casual", e.g. open-neck shirt and jacket for men. Formal wear is not required. Between September and February it is advisable to pack a light sweater for the evenings.
Shoes that can be easily slipped on and off are recommended for visits to temples.
Q. What currency do I need on board the Road to Mandalay?
A. All transactions on board are in US Dollars. Passengers are able to settle their expenses at the end of the cruise. Major international credit cards (American Express, Diners Club, JCB and Visa), US$ travelers checks and FEC's (Foreign Exchange Certificates) are also accepted, but not personal checks. Please note Master Card is not accepted on Road to Mandalay or anywhere else in Myanmar.
Q. What sort of service can I expect on board the Eastern & Oriental Express?
A. . In short, dedicated. Your Hotel manger and team of multi-lingual staff are on board to make your cruise a memorable one.
Q. Will I need to tip the staff?
A. Gratuities on board Road to Mandalay are at your discretion.
Q. Can I buy souvenirs or presents on board the ship?
A. Yes. In the on-board boutique you will find a range of lacquerware as well as traditional Burmese fabrics, silver and gold jewelry and objects of art. There is also a range of international gifts exclusively designed for Road to Mandalay. Camera film and batteries are also stocked. However, the range of film is limited and if you require a special type of film it is recommended that you bring your own supply
Q. Is there sightseeing during the cruise?
A. Yes. Everyday there is an excursion to visit some of the fascinating sights Myanmar has to offer. Tours are escorted by guides, or you may prefer to do your own thing. Alternatively, cars can be arranged, including your own tour guide, for private use.
Q. Will I require visas and injections for my trip?
A. Advice on up to date requirements should be sought from the consulate office in your country of residence. For general guidance:
- Your passport must have at least 6 months validity remaining at the time of travel.
- Visas are required by all visitors to Myanmar and are valid for 28 days.
A visa must be obtained before entering Myanmar, by contacting your nearest Myanmar Embassy or consulate. A visa may be obtained in Bangkok or Singapore, but 2 working days are needed to process an application.
Passengers will be issued with a "Package Tour" letter to present to a Myanmar Embassy or consulate to obtain a visa.
It is the responsibility of each passenger to ensure that they have the necessary valid documentation. Any passenger without a valid visa will be unable to board their flight to Myanmar.
It is recommended that passengers contact their medical practitioner for advice on any vaccination requirements.
Q. Will I need insurance for my trip?
A. As with all holidays and trips abroad, it is advisable to have travel insurance. Your reservations agent will be able to make reccommendations.
Q. Can you arrange my flights and hotel accommodation?
A. Yes. Many passengers make the Road to Mandalay experience the center-piece of their Asian holiday. Your reservations agent will be happy to arrange any flights, hotel accommodation and transfers you require, around your trip.
Q. Do you offer a honeymoon package?
A. A journey on Road to Mandalay is an occasion to remember in itself. We can, with advance, notice arrange flowers, champagne or a gift to be waiting for you in your cabin. Ask when booking for details of our special celebration packages to enhance your holiday.
Q. Where can I find out more about Myanmar?
A. To find out more about Myanmar, its culture, traditions and history, a good quality guide-book will provide the necessary background to make your visit even more rewarding.
Q. Is it safe to visit Myanmar?
A. Yes. Until recently, this fascinating country has kept itself in isolation from the rest of the world. As a result its beauty and charm have remained unspoiled. Myanmar is now welcoming travelers - and Road to Mandalay is the best way to experience this unique country.
Q. What about Myanmar's human rights record?
A. Orient-Express makes no apology for the actions of any of the countries our guests visit. It is our view that any form of travel between countries encourages positive communication between people and helps to broaden everyone's outlook. It is up to an individual's own conscience to determine whether or not they should visit a particular country. At Orient-Express we present this fabulous opportunity for those who choose to visit Myanmar, where locals will make visitors feel very welcome.
