Money- They may not speak English( Indians excepted) but they all have a solid understanding of the greenback. Sew a pocket on the inside of your pants. Cash speaks volumes and with a whole lots of savvy can get you out of troubles with little outlay.

Travellers Cheques- mean nothing and dont offer the leverage that greenbacks do.

Transactions- Common sense. Just because you have ( in there eyes) heaps of money don't splurge and give them what they ask. This is especially poignant when interacting with border guards and officials. SAVVY SAVVY SAVVY. Act poor and don't be swayed by there arguments. IF it comes down to money ( and it will) tell them (for example) you have $30 US dollars in cash and the rest is in travellers cheques. If you keep changing the figure you've lost. I was inprisoned in Pakistan for seven day (no carnet) i stuck to the twenty US dollar speil and that's what it cost for me to get out and on my way to Iran. Trust, be patient, polite, and above all play smart.

Clothes- Thermals and probably one pair of all else. TRAVEL LIGHT!


Electronic Gadgets- I didn't bother.

The entire Region of Kullu, Kashmir, Leh Ladahk is incrediable. Adjectives fail to embrace the splendour.

Politics of Travel- Maybe purchase a 500cc Einfield in India and then ditch it before busing into China. Purchase something there on the black market and PRESTO you're free to explore China unincumbered about obtaining carnets and the like. Ditch that and purhcase again in Vietnam.


Hope it all helps