The former French-dominated region of Indochina evolved into three separate countries in the early 1950s. Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia still retain strong ties and it is easy to travel from one country to another. Each has its particular charm, with a Top Attractions list highlighting the most popular attractions. Side 1 concentrates on the southern portion of the region and includes an inset map of Ho Chi Minh City; the second side covers the area from Sien Riep in Cambodia to the Chinese border areas of both Laos and Vietnam.
An inset map of Hanoi is one this side. The region is prospering after many years of civil unrest, is friendly, safe, and easy to reach since Covid restrictions were removed last year. The new Chinese-built rail line through northern Laos to Chiang Kong in Thailand, and to Vientiane, Laos, is shown for the first time. This line connects with the Chinese rail system leading to Yunnan, but is not shown as the route is still regarded as a military secret by China. At the moment, its purpose is to move freight from China to ports, but it is probable that passenger service is also possible. The map is printed on waterproof stone paper for durability and to hold up in extremely humid conditions.