Frequently asked questions

1. When to tour?

This is often a question. The weather is suitable for touring all year round because the temperature seldom drops below 30 Degrees Celsius. Rainy season does not mean drizzle for days on end. Over the last years we had clear mornings (with better-than-dry-season visibility), clouds in the afternoon and subsequent short rain, dry evenings, occasional rain at night. I personally prefer this season because of lush bright green vegetation, magnificent waterfalls, clean rain-washed roads and ...no tourist hoards. However we do not ride in September when rainfall is generally heaviest.

2. Has the bike got a carrier for my daily personal luggage?

Yes. Bike has two detachable GIVI 33 litre side panniers for single rider and one 29 litre top and two 33 litre side for rider and pillion. Petrol tank is suitable for any "tank bag". We do not use support vehicles on our tours as they take away the adventure spirit from motorcycle touring. Your suitcases and any items not needed on the tour, remain deposited in the hotel where you will spend your first and last nights.

3.What is required to meet any local regulations and to meet the riding gear requirements of your tour?

You are free to wear anything that you consider comfortable or safe (shorts/T shirt, jeans, long sleeved shirt, trainers). We do not impose any rules. People who tour with us usually have mainly years of experience and know what is best for them. Rain gear is not necessary from November to April. From May onwards just bring some very light plastic rainwear - standard stuff for hikers.. Usually it rains for just a short while and we wait until it's over. Take good sun block (SPF 30 up). You can start in the morning without sun block and apply it after one hour at the first stop. Helmets are mandatory. We provide light half helmets suitable for this climate and our touring speed. They are available with or without a visor. Most riders bring their own because they are most comfortable with them.

4. Are the bikes fitted with water bottle carriers?

There is a space between the seat and side pannier where you can tug in a standard PVC bottle of water. We make stops regularly, every 100 km or 1,5 hours at the places where you can buy drinks like cold water, Coke/Fanta, Red Bull style drinks (all at about 20 pence a bottle)...

5. Are laundry facilities available on route?

Yes- every three to six days. You need to pack six days clothes (maximum).

6. Does the tour include any medically qualified staff and first aid facilities?

Tour manager has first aid, some basic medicines and is also trained in first aid.

7. Are the areas we are going to considered safe from over the border terrorist activity?

We always check situation along the Thai-Burmese border before the tour and adjust the route if necessary. The same with Cambodia. We are always visiting only safe areas.

8.What sort of rain conditions are we likely to meet and Will there be high humidity?

Hardly any rain. A short tropical storm is possible - will cool you down a bit (at 30 Degrees Celsius even rain is warm). If it is too bad we shall stop for a drink. Roads and clothes dry up in 20 minutes. It is more humid from June until October. We do not ride in September because of frequent rain.

9.We would like to buy a lot of souvenirs along the way. How do I go about this?

Your luggage space is limited. Most of the shopping you will do in the evening on Night bazaars. Everything can be posted next morning for second to nothing to the base hotel. Thai Post provides reliable, fast and inexpensive service. We shall assist you with this.

10.We would like to extend our holiday. Can you arrange this?

Holiday extension is no problem. Our clients often take a holiday on the beach/in Bangkok before or after the tour. Once you made your flight arrangements let us know the day of arrival and departure and flight particulars. Airport transfer will be arranged accordingly.

11.Are exchange facilities readily available? Are credit/debit cards acceptable or should Traveller's Cheques be used?

Exchange facilities and Cash point machines are available every day. Exchange rate is everywhere same. It is better to take traveller's cheques. Credit cards are accepted but not in small shops.

Avalon Tours