SE Asia: passport - carry it or leave it at hotel ?

Question

I will be traveling to SE Asia (Cambodia & Vietnam), Usually I just keep the passport safe in the safety box when I am going out strolling the city however is it advisable to leave the passport at the hotel when traveling to those regions? Do police detain tourists who can't show their passport at once at road?

Answer 1

Don't worry, police won't bother you, as long as you aren't catched stealing or murdering! If the y control/check you, just say you have your passport at the hotel and ask them to come with you to your place in order to get it. Another good idea may be carrying a photocopy of it.

Just don't worry and enjoy those two beautiful countries!

Answer 2

Thats a great question which I ask myself...My short answer is leave it in the safe at the hotel.  If someone steals your purse or robs you, its a bummer to lose you passport.  I travel extensively in SE Asia and have never been asked for my passport, but I have been robbed.  

If the worst happens and the passport goes missing, its actually really easy to get a new one at the US Embassy or Consulate.  

Always take as little with you as possible, and you will enjoy your outings more.

good luck!!