traveltrade.exotissimo.com
ISSUE 62
Jul - Oct 2013
OFF THE
RADAR
5EXCEPTIONAL JOURNEYS
Daring itineraries into extraordinary places
SPOTLIGHT ON
We uncover the remote city of Loikaw in Myanmar
TRAVEL JOURNALS
Personal adventures and encounters in Asia
EXO INSIGHTS
Inside information from our travel experts
A rickshaw cyclist takes a break on the corner of a street market in central Yangon, Myanmar.
Discover the city and beyond
Experience Saigon in an environment inspired by Oriental traditions. Be at home at a hotel where you have the time and space to enjoy the things that are most important to you. Welcome to New World Saigon Hotel.
76 Le Lai, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City tel: +84 8 3822 8888 saigon@newworldhotels.com www.saigon.newworldhotels.com
LUXURY HAS A NEW EXPRESSION IN DANANG Absolute tranquility and seclusion awaits guests at the newly-opened InterContinental Danang Sun Peninsula Resort. Nested in its own private bay amidst the hills of the famous Son Tra Peninsula, distinctive Vietnamese architecture is matched by exceptional service to create first truly luxurious resort in the region. And, with our expert local knowledge, we’ll help you discover authentic experiences to make your stay especially memorable. Contact us now to enjoy our very special rate.
WHAT’S
NEW?
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EXOTISSIMO EXPLORER
Exo Myanmar Leads The Way In Tourism Development Unprecedented is often the word used to describe Myanmar’s expansion as a tourist
in the region to perform such training. To handle these
destination. No country has undergone such rapid growth in such a short period of
developments we have seen our staff in the Myanmar offices
time – an effect caused by a country opening its borders in an age of globalization.
increase by more than 100 percent in the last eight months.”
“Previously, only the adventurous embarked on a tour of Myanmar, but now
Exotissimo Myanmar has been negotiating with hotel owners
more leisure travelers are also arriving and with a different set of expectations,”
to secure rooms and resolve any issues that may arise from
commented Richard Ludwig, Product Manager of Exotissimo Myanmar. He
the surge in demand over recent years. While there are still no
continued, “Guides, especially experienced ones, are at a premium this season. Exo
true 5 star hotel options, the choice of hotels in areas such as
is providing guide training and looking for bright, energetic new guides all the time.
Yangon, Bagan, Mandalay and Inle are satisfactory to most
We are also putting together a ‘First Aid Training’ program, the first travel company
traveler’s needs and requirements.
Do you live in an Intercontinental life?
Call us at +84 (0511) 393 8888 or visit danang.intercontinental.com In over 170 locations across the globe including: BALI
BORA BORA
FIJI
HUA HIN
ISSUE 62 / Jul - Oct 2013
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New Appointments At Exotissimo Travel
Manu, Product Manager of Exotissimo Indonesia
We would like to introduce and welcome
EXO Foundation Launches New Website
two new product managers that have joined
EXO Foundation recently launched its new
Exotissimo, Emmanuel Henrotte or ‘Manu’
and improved website (www.exofoundation.
in Exo Indonesia and Johann Chabert in Exo
org), showing a new attractive design with
Vietnam. Manu was born in Belgium and spent
diverse features to facilitate a wider scope of
the past 7 years working in the travel industry in
communication and help perform its tasks.
Bali. He also speaks an impressive 5 languages. Manu will replace Nicky Henderson who is staying with Exotissimo to lead the product team as Group Product Manager. Johann Chabert is from France but for the past 3 years been running his own travel advice website in Canada. With their diverse knowledge of the
Johann Chabert, Product Manager of Exotissimo Vietnam
EXO Foundation has refreshed the portal's contents and appearance with the aim of reaching a wider audience, increasing the capacity to raise awareness and trigger action towards sustainable development, poverty reduction and responsible tourism practice.
travel industry, we look forward to the fresh
Exotissimo Travel, who is the main donator to the
ideas and enthusiasm Manu and Johann will
Foundation (1$ donated for each traveling client),
bring to their teams. Feel free to contact Manu
renewed its commitment and continuous support
or Johann using the details below: manu@
by introducing the new portal to the 150 French
exotissimo.com and johann@exotissimo.com
travel partners present, inviting all to contribute to this charitable initiative.
ExoConnect – Connecting You To Asia As part of our ongoing efforts to provide a
Exotissimo Academy 5 Coming Soon
higher level of service and added value, the booking process with Exo will be much faster and easier with ExoConnect, our new online booking system. Dan Tilley, Systems Project Manager for
Dan Tilley, Systems Project Manager, Exotissimo Group
Exotissimo Group said, “ExoConnect is our exciting new online booking system that will make all of our agent’s lives much easier. Hotels, transfers and Exo experiences can be booked and confirmed instantly, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week with just a few clicks. We’ve made it possible to review existing bookings, check up-to-date rates and take advantage of special offers, all seamlessly accessible through your familiar Travel Trade account.”
Now in its fifth successive and equally successful year, Exotissimo are preparing for their annual training program to promote staff development with the core values at its very heart. Commencing in June, the schedule includes participation from each of Exotissimo’s destination countries. Exotissimo employees participate in a series of
For more information please contact,
interactive training modules, learning useful skills
marketing@exotissimo.com
in teamwork, communication and problem solving while incorporating the essential core values as listed below. Each participant will also learn to identify the unique selling points of Exotissimo and the travel desires and aspirations of each client.
Exotissimo’s Core Values
1. We are passionate about travel
4. We share our knowledge
2. We exceed expectations
5. We aim to be responsible
3. We dare to innovate, aim to
6. Yes we win
be unique
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EXOTISSIMO EXPLORER
7. Yes we can, yes we care
ISSUE 62 / Jul - Oct 2013
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1
3
2
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HOME
For The Night 4
5
We’ve got some great ideas when it comes to recommending a hotel that offers something a little different. Whether it’s the location, architecture or history of the place that makes it extra special, try suggesting these distinctive abodes that stand out from the crowd. 1
A secluded beach hideaway in Indonesia
2
Traditional homestay in Cambodia
3
Charming boutique property in Laos
4
Luxurious resort in Vietnam
5
A living museum in China
6
Mountain-top temple in Japan
A world away from modern civilization
A very basic homestay option at
For clients staying in Pakse, we
Banyan Tree Lang Co is a luxurious
The Linden Centre occupies the
An overnight experience you simply
as we know it, Jeeva Beloam in
Banteay Chhmar, located northwest
recommend the Residence Sisouk.
addition to the Laguna Lang Co
historic and impressive property of
will not find anywhere else. Guests can
Lombok offers isolation in a simply
of Tonle Sap Lake and about 2
This charming boutique hotel,
complex, built on a splendid crescent
Yang Pin Xiang, standing as one of the
stay in a shukubo (Buddhist temple
stunning location. Surrounded by a
hours from Siem Reap. There are 8
formerly a private home, has just 14
bay offering unrivalled privacy and
most alluring and pristine examples
lodging) on the mountaintop of Mount
55 hectare nature forest preserve,
homestays in the area allowing the
rooms and has maintained its unique
exclusivity. The range of facilities on
of vernacular architecture in China.
Koya, a center of Shingon Buddhism for
the residence contains five beruga,
experience of a night in a traditional
style. The hotel welcomes guests
offer at the resort is so extensive that
Situated in the stunning landscape of
over 1200 years. The beautiful temple
perched on a sand dune above a
Cambodian style house. At just $10
with exposed wooden flooring and
for some clients there is no need to
Yunnan province, the centre is housed
constructed from wood provides a very
250 meter long white sandy beach,
per night, this is a value option for all
beautiful artworks. Unfortunately
venture elsewhere. On site guests are
in a display example of traditional
basic Japanese style room with shared
with views from their front terraces
travelers and in close proximity to the
there is no pool but this is made
treated to a fully equipped gymnasium,
Bai architecture – the Yang Jia Yuan,
facilities, allowing an experience similar
across the Alas Strait to the island of
temples of Banteay Chhmar, it makes
up by the superior standard of the
yoga pavilion, golf course, sport center,
built by the original owner, Yang Pin
to the daily life of the monks who reside
Sumbawa and the open Hindia Ocean.
a great place to spend a memorable
rooms which are possibly the best on
marine lab for divers and extensive
Xiang. In many ways the center is a
there. Traditional Buddhist cuisine is
Off the main power grid, Jeeva Beloam
night. It can be easily incorporated
offer in Pakse. Guests can enjoy their
meeting facilities for business clients.
living museum complete with modern
served in the evening and a delicious
uses environmentally friendly solar
on a journey from Battambang to
breakfast served in the lounge bar on
Each of the 49 all-pool villas are finished
comforts to ensure every guest feels
vegetarian breakfast in the morning as
power panels backed up by a diesel
Siem Reap or as an excursion from
the top floor with panoramic views of
with traditional Vietnamese architectural
well treated while engaging in the sites
part of the stay. The surrounding pine
fuel generator to provide electricity to
either city.
the city.
elements and furnishings of the finest
compelling history.
forest and Chinese graveyard add to the
the camp.
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EXOTISSIMO EXPLORER
craftsmanship.
atmosphere.
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Relive a resplendent past of a by-gone era, with a magical, colonial cruise on Halong bay. Experience Emeraude Classic Cruises, the luxurious choice to see one of UNESCO’s hidden treasures.
Born of Vietnamese imperial grace and refinement, Bhaya Cruises’ modern fleet offers a wide range of cruise options from private, intimate charter cruises for couples or small groups up to exclusive and luxury voyages aboard 20-cabin cruise vessels. Bhaya Cruises is also reputed as the most experienced and trusted mice supplier in Halong Bay cruising, serving up unforgettable moments and memories to last a lifetime. Soak in the sights, sounds and scenic delights of this majestic watery wonderland in unrivalled comfort, safety and hearty hospitality.
Ancient House River Resort Cam Thanh ward, Hoi An city, Viet Nam Tel: ++84 510 3930777 Fax: ++84 510 3930779 Email: sales@ancienthouseriver.com Website: www.ancienthouseriver.com
BHAYA CRUISES 47 Phan Chu Trinh, Hanoi,Vietnam Tel.: +84 4 3944 6777 | Fax: +84 4 3944 6776 Email: sales@bhayacruises.com | Web: www.bhayacruises.com
HUE - VIETNAM
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EXOTISSIMO EXPLORER
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01 * INDO
Trek to Banunggulung to see Komodo dragons in the wild before heading to Pink Beach for an afternoon of snorkeling.
10 Days / 9 Nights
Sebayor Island
Banunggulung
KOMODO
Villages & Sailing (Flores & Komodo)
Pink Beach
Denpasar ê Kelimutu ê Ende ê Bajawa ê Ruteng ê Labuan Bajo ê Sebayor Island ê Komodo Island ê Rinca Island ê Bidadari Island
Labuan Bajo
Leave for 3 nights onboard a private sailing boat in Komodo National Marine Park.
Ruteng
Enjoy local food and visit the traditional Ngada village of Gurusina nestled on the slopes of the Inerie volcano.
Journey to the summit of Mt Kelimutu, stopping to see its three uniquely colored lakes.
A tour taking guests across some of Indonesia’s most spectacular islands including a hike to the top of the mysterious Mt Kelimutu, home to
Rinca Island
FLORES
three uniquely colored lakes that Kelimutu { Start }
Bajawa
change color throughout the year. Cruise through the Komodo National Marine Park to see prehistoric
Ende
02 * CAMBODIA Adventure Day in the Life Tour 4 Days / 3 Nights
Sunrise from Fuji’s Summit
Explore the magnificent Angkor Wat, Ta Phrom, Bayon and Angkor Thom temples.
still stand in this area of Cambodia. Lend a helping hand with village tasks such as planting rice and
village of Kampong Phluck.
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EXOTISSIMO EXPLORER
Depart Tokyo for Lake
Stay in a traditional ryokan and enjoy a hot onsen spring bath before dining on a selection of delicious Japanese treats.
Kawaguchiko, an onsen
Join in with project work at Kompheim Village, helping to plant rice, harvest crops or learning how to make a thatch roof.
Siem Reap { Start }
guides certified by the Japan
Board a local boat and travel through this fascinating stilted village before exploring Tonle Sap Lake.
Mountain Guide Association. We then begin our ascent of Mt Fuji, reaching the peak
Tonlé Sap Lake
Mt Fuji
just before sunrise. Watch
{ Start } Tokyo
The bright lights of Tokyo are a sight to behold for any visitor. A truly captivating city where ancient pastimes are practiced next to pioneering modern day technologies.
the surrounding mountains light up as the sun floods the
Kampong Phluck
Kawaguchiko
where guests meet our expert
Beng Mealea
making thatch roof panels before visiting the stilted
Tokyo ê Kawaguchiko ê Mt Fuji
resort at the base of Mt Fuji
lesser known including
architectural feats that
The atmospheric, overgrown and crumbling temple of Beng Mealea is a captivating sight.
Angkor Complex
temples of Angkor to the
guests the stunning
HONSHU
3 Days / 2 Nights
From the magnificent
Beng Mealea, we show
03 * JAPAN
Kulen Mountain
Siem Reap ê Angkor Complex ê Kulen Mountain ê Beng Mealea ê Kampong Phluck
Komodo dragons in the wild.
horizon with the dawn of a new day.
Climb the iconic Mt Fuji and watch a spectacular sunrise from its peak.
Pacific Ocean ISSUE 62 / Jul - Oct 2013
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04 * THAILAND
05 * VIETNAM & CHINA Red River to Yunnan
Learn about a number of cultural past-times including Muay Thai, rice farming, Thai music and visit a center for elephants.
Chiang Mai
This in-depth experience introduces guests to both Vietnamese and
16 Days / 15 Nights
Chinese cultures while traversing untouched natural landscapes that
Hanoi ê LaVieVuLinh ê Bac Ha ê Sa Pa ê Lao Cai ê Puzhehei ê Yuanyang ê Luoping ê Hongtudi ê Shilin ê Kunming
are unique to the region. Trek along jungle paths to remote waterfalls in VuLinh, cross through rich green rice terraced slopes and into the spectacular Yunnan Province of China on an unforgettable journey.
Visit Phra Mahathat Kaen Nakhon in Nong Wang Temple for its Dvaravati and Indo-China arts.
Lampang
Dan Sai Hongtudi
Sukhothai Phitsanulok
Khon Kaen
Explore Sukhothai historical park, the ancient capital of the Kingdom of Thailand.
{ Start }
Phi Mai
Khao Yai
Visit the less frequented Black Stone Forest and wander through the maze of stone trees where we enjoy a picnic lunch in the middle of the forest
Kunming Luoping Shilin
Bangkok
Andaman Sea
See the dramatic red/orange soils of Hongtudi, created by the rich minerals found in the earth here.
Puzhehei Yuanyang
Hike through a monsoon forest keeping a look out for wild gibbons, hornbills and monitor lizards.
Gulf of Thailand
Head to nearby Laohuzui to watch a spectacular sunset over a landscape of rice terraces as far as the eye can see. Sa Pa
Bac Ha Lao Cai
Trek to Cau Buc Waterfalls and explore the surrounding jungle with a local guide who teaches about the many rare species of flora and fauna
LaVieVuLinh { Start } Hanoi
Gulf of Tonkin
Thailand in Varieties
An extensive tour covering many of the fascinating historical and
12 Days / 11 Nights
natural areas found in Central, Eastern and Northern Thailand.
Bangkok ê Khao Yai ê Phi Mai ê Khon Kaen ê Dan Sai ê Phitsanulok ê Sukhothai ê Lampang ê Chiang Mai
From the Grand Palace and bustling streets of Bangkok we travel northeast through the beautiful natural scenery of Khao Yai park and into Isaan before heading back into central Thailand and up to the cultural city of Chiang Mai.
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China
Mynamar
Loikaw
Laos
Thailand
Richard Ludwig, Product Manager of Exotissimo Myanmar
Spotlight On….
LOIKAW
Loikaw is the capital of Kayah State in Myanmar and located in the Karen Hill area, close to the State's northern boundary. The town is known for its varying hill tribes and THE Thiri-Mingalar Cambodia Taung Kwae pagoda, found in the centre of town. The Emerald Tree pagoda is located further south and boasts spectacular views of the lush Shan State hills and Kayah region. “I met a local woman who, when talking of
Tourist numbers visiting Loikaw are now on the
her age said “si sib”, which means 40 in Thai.
increase as the provincial capital of Kayah State is
Although she was Burmese, the woman had learnt
the latest city in Myanmar to forgo the formality
to speak Thai while living in Mae Hong Son, a
of requiring tourists to receive permission to
village located in Northwest Thailand and close to
visit. Accessible by road and boat (both five hour
the Myanmar border. The Padaung woman was
journeys) from the Inle Lake region, Loikaw offers
smiling because she had just returned from a visit
nine contrasting ethnicities. The area is adorned
to Panpet, her hometown village. This has been a
with hilltop monasteries from which to watch the
common occurrence over the last year for many
setting sun, intriguing treks, river rides through
in the Palaung villages of Kayah State, located
the city and an idyllic waterfall. The city is bisected
between the Thai border and Shan State in Eastern
by the Pilu River, populated by numerous lakes
Myanmar. The Padaung, more commonly known
and surrounded by mountains, creating one of
as ‘long-necks’, are with ever increasing frequency
Myanmar’s most spectacular cities.”
coming home as more opportunities begin to present themselves in the region.
Thiri Mingalar Pone Monastery in Loikaw
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EXOTISSIMO EXPLORER
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travel
J O U RNALS
Mutianyu section of the great wall near Beijing
Julien Monnerie (center)
Real life stories and adventures by Exotissimo staff as they explore Asia.
Product Manager, China
Exploring the Great Wall of China by motorvan “I recently met the deputy chief of the village of Guandi at her house. It is a delightful place that has been transformed into a guesthouse with an ancient courtyard where we sat and enjoyed tea. I was on an exploratory adventure of the Great Wall in a motorvan. A way of travel that gives a lovely sense of freedom and privacy as you can retire to your van whenever you desire. From here I had a spectacular view of the ‘real’ Great Wall, lined in places by trees planted as part of the ‘Green Great Wall Project’. I was encapsulated as I discovered her commitment towards this incredible project. We were intrigued by the symbolism of what we could see. The historical Great Wall meeting the Green Great Wall, representing present achievements and future possibilities. From here we made our way to a section of the wall that few people know or dare to climb: Jiankou! We climbed along the highest point called ‘Heaven’s Ladder’ and enjoyed views of China to the south and Inner Mongolia in the north. After finishing our climb we made our way back to our motor home, enjoying a glass of wine and delicious barbecue while watching the sun set over the mythical wall, an unforgettable moment. The motor home was very well equipped and convenient for our needs. It was such a thrill to explore the wall in this unique way. The next day we tackled the Mutianyu section of the wall. It is not an easy walk but one with fantastic views and a great sense of adventure to it. We enjoyed our final lunch in the School House, a former school turned restaurant. There is also an art glass studio worth visiting, where they hire local people, grow their own food and follow sustainable operating practices. An all-round unforgettable experience.” EXO SUGGESTS: Two Great Walls by motor caravan (2D/1N).
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EXOTISSIMO EXPLORER
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Visit the intriguing ‘Thrown Temple’ in the sleepy village of Misasa, Japan “The small town of Misasa in Tottori
While in town, you can visit one of the
prefecture is a charming overnight stop
several onsens – these are Japanese
for pilgrims and tourists intending to visit
style baths with special etiquette in the
the ‘Thrown Temple’: Nageire-do; a place
way of use. Usually they are attached
for monks-in-training or spa enthusiasts
to accommodations, but day-use is also
who visit to enjoy the radium-rich natural
possible. Misasa is also one of the rare
hot springs. The temple, Sanbutsu-ji, is a
places where you find a hot spring under
designated national treasure with several
the river bed – mostly men enjoy this
buildings scattered on the slopes of the
free, open-air bathing.
Mitoku Mountain. One of the buildings is Nageire-do, a wooden structure hanging
If you are staying overnight, I can
on the rocks that indeed looks like
recommend Hanaya Bekkan, a large and
someone randomly threw it there.
friendly ryokan. Oh, and don’t miss Mr. Kajikawa’s Barber shop and Museum.”
Katalin Rákóczi, Product Executive, Japan
It dates back to the Heian period (8-12th century) and folklore says that it was founded by En no Gyōja, the Buddhist ascetic and mystic. Apparently it was Gyōja who built the temple at the foot of
the mountain, and then with his strong power, threw it up into the rocks. It will take a good hour to climb up to Nageire-do, and it is a test for the muscles as you ascend and descend with the help of chains at various stages. Following some accidents, the rule now is
EXO SUGGESTS: Contact japan@exotissimo.com to find out more about including a visit to the 'Thrown Temple' in to an itinerary.
that lone travelers must wait for a buddy to climb up together.
Walk around the characterful streets of Chiang Khan in Thailand “Chiang Khan is a small and welcoming town located in Loei province that has a special place in my heart. The district of Chiang Khan is bordered to the north by the Khong River separating it from Laos. The town is quiet with a laid-back atmosphere, reflective of the simple lifestyle of its people. There are many old wooden houses making it extremely attractive and great for exploring on foot over a few days. The village has a number of old temples and the landscape beyond is breathtaking. Chiang Khan reminds me of my childhood and I could never grow tired of visiting this wonderful area. I always have a great smile when I visit this place. From here there are a number of travel options available. It’s easy to continue to central Thailand, Northern
Sunisa Yingkhum, Product Supervisor, Thailand
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EXOTISSIMO EXPLORER
Isaan or even cross the border and spend some time exploring Laos.” EXO SUGGESTS: Visit the province of Loei during the famous ‘Phi Ta Khon Festival (4D/3N)’
ISSUE 62 / Jul - Oct 2013
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the story
behind the
images revealing the storIES behind iconic images captured on camera.
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EXOTISSIMO EXPLORER
Sculpted panels at Wat Xieng Thong These sculpted and gilded teakwood panels are actually found on The Carriage House, located at the eastern edge of Wat Xieng Thong, which itself is found at the northern tip of the peninsula formed by the Mekong River and the Nam Khan. Wat Xieng Thong is Luang Prabang's most extravagant temple. The panels themselves recount the Laos version of the story of Ramayana – the national epic of the Lao people.
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Pathway through a thousand Torii Gates
Crumbling remains of Beng Mealea An immensely atmospheric site containing the remains of a temple originally built in the Angkor Wat style close to Siem Reap in Cambodia. For years it was difficult to reach, but a road was
Fushimi Inari Shrine is a
recently built to the temple complex of Koh Ker that passes close to Beng Mealea, opening it up to
Shinto Shrine in South
the public. Primarily made from sandstone, much of the temple is now found lying in great heaps
Kyoto, Japan, famous for its
with trees and bushes thriving amidst the ancient courtyards, towers and passageways.
thousands of torii gates that lead into the wooded forest of the sacred Mount Inari. The gates are donations by individuals with the donator’s name and the date inscribed on the back as visible in the picture. The hike to the summit of Mount Inari and back takes about 2-3 hours.
Batak House Ornaments Batak architecture is very ornate and relates to traditions of
of a jabu, a Toba Batak house.
Treasure houses of the Mogao Caves
These houses are predominantly
Situated along the Silk Route at
boat shaped with intricately
the crossroads of trade, with heavy
carved gables and sweeping roofs
religious, cultural and intellectual
made from thatch. The front of
influences, the 492 cells and
the house extends further than
cave sanctuaries in Mogao are
the rear and is used to show fine
famous for their statues and wall
carvings and motifs. These may
paintings, spanning 1,000 years of
be cockerels, suns or geometric
Buddhist art. Carved into the cliffs
patterns, painted in shades of red,
above the Dachuan River in China,
white and black while the rear of
the caves shelter an immense
the house remains plain.
collection of Buddhist art.
various Batak groups in North Sumatra, Indonesia. This particular decoration is found on the front
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EXOTISSIMO EXPLORER
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EXOTISSIMO EXPLORER
ISSUE 62 / Jul - Oct 2013
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{ Start }
Kong Lor Caves
4 hours
In Thakhek we advise 'Inthira' for charm and great food.
EXO Insights
A night here allows access to some of the most impressive scenery in Laos, try ‘Chantha House’ for access to local restaurants, or ‘Sala Kong Lor’ for superb river views.
Thakhek
1.5 hours
Savannakhet
For budget price accommodation use ‘New Saen Sabai’ and for something a little more luxurious with pool, we suggest ‘Daosavanh’.
3.5 hours
We suggest 'Residence Sisouk' for colonial charm or 'Athena' for more modern comforts and a swimming pool.
Pakse 1 hour
Champasak If it is a peaceful location your clients are after then suggest Don Khone and the ‘Sala Don Khone’ as a boutique hotel option. For a more luxurious option on Don Khong try a suite with stunning views at ’Pon Arena’, and if on a budget then we suggest the deluxe mountain/garden rooms here.
High-end clients are spoilt for choice here. The 'River Resort' offers excellent service and facilities while 'La Folie' offers a more rustic experience on the peaceful island of Don Daeng.
This month we take a closer look at Southern Laos with Product Manager James Pook as he travels from Kong Lor to Sipandon.
there is a simple yet intriguing Dinosaur Museum where the resident paleontologist is happy to give talks on their work. I found a couple of great new boutique hotels (Athena and Residence Sisouk) whilst in Pakse. Champasak is a tiny town on the Mekong River just 1 hour from Pakse, which has the best hotels in the region (La Folie and River Resort). The pre-Angkorian
Southern Laos allows the perfect
the latest offerings while for first timers,
journey with only torchlight to show
opportunity to stray from the
there are a treasure trove of sights and
the way! Extravagant stalagmites and
most regularly visited destinations
experiences to entice them with. Small
stalactites were visible along the trail.
in Laos and catch sight of a
groups or FITs with a sense of adventure
Kong Lor is certainly a major highlight of
country boasting an inherent and
(who have probably already visited many of
any itinerary, while short stops in Thakhek
undisturbed beauty. When selling
the more obvious areas in Southeast Asia)
and/or Savannakhet showcase the
Southern Laos to clients, it shows
will find it a very rewarding destination.
area’s colonial architecture with sleepy
an understanding of cutting
boulevards to explore. These sleepy towns
edge product and willingness to
I spent a week completing this overland
are best explored with an evening stroll
try something different in this
journey and would have to say the highlight
along the Mekong, enjoying local food
spectacular country. Southern
was visiting the stunning Kong Lor Caves
and Beerlao in simple pavement cafes.
Laos holds a special place for
and beautiful scenery that surrounds them. I
Thirteen kilometers north of Savannakhet
those second time visitors who
took a long tail boat along an underground
is a beautiful temple called ‘That Ing
are all too eager to hear about
section of the Hin Boun River – a 7.5km
Hang’ I visited while in Savannakhet itself,
temple of Wat Phou can be found on the edge of Champasak and is another major highlight. From this area it is possible to take a day trip to 4000 Islands, or stay on the islands for a relaxing and simple experience. Accommodation ranges from rustic and charming to the stylish and sophisticated, though in my opinion the accommodation is not really a selling point for this region, other than in Champasak. A journey through Southern Laos is full of experiences and provides a real sense of adventure.
1.5 - 2.5 hours (depending which island) Wat Phu Khmer temple in Champasak
4000 Island (Sipandon)
"I’ve always been a keen traveler and now lead a creative product department in Vientiane. Born in the UK I fell in love with Southeast Asia eleven years ago after my first visit. After working for some of our partners in the UK, I then joined Exotissimo to develop the inspirational experiences on offer in Laos. I love searching for ways to make unknown destinations accessible and developing new ways of experiencing the classic sights."
James Pook, Product Manager, Exotissimo Laos
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Phuket Vegetarian Festival
Chinese dragon dance
Thailand | 27 Sep - 5 October A colourful event held over a nineday period in October, this celebrates the Chinese community's belief that abstinence from meat and various stimulants during the ninth lunar month
Tenjin Festival, Osaka Japan | July 24 - 25
of the Chinese calendar will help obtain good health and peace of mind. Watch in awe at fire walking and body piercings
Tenjin Matsuri is the festival of the
performed to show power of their gods,
‘Tenmangu Shrine’ and honors its principle
strengthen the faith of their followers and
deity Sugawara Michizane, the deity of
rid them of bad luck.
scholarship. The festival involves inviting the deity out of the shrine and parading him through the city, carrying out various flamboyant festivities to entertain him, before taking him back to the shrine. For the people, the lively festivities manifest in a wonderful occasion, the days filled with traditional costumes, spectacular processions, evening firework displays and a celebratory atmosphere enjoyed by all.
Mid-Autumn Festival
Ubud Writers & Readers Festival Indonesia | October 11-15
2013 marks a mammoth year for the Ubud Writers & Readers Festival on Bali, as Southeast Asia's most renowned literary event gets set to celebrate its 10 year anniversary. The Festival comes full circle by returning to its original theme ‘Through Darkness to Light’ or ‘Habis
China | September 19 - 21
Gelap Terbitlah Terang’, honoring RA
Families gather together to appreciate and
rights pioneer.
offer sacrifice to the round bright moon and to enjoy eating moon cakes during this well celebrated festival. Moon cakes are offered to friends and family to show their respect. Other activities like dragon dancing
Kartini, Indonesia's beloved women’s
Boun Ok Phansa & Boat Racing Festival, Vientiane Laos | October 19
and appreciating the full moon are also considered highly important
TRAVEL
CALENDAR
Pchum Ben Festival, Cambodia
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EXOTISSIMO EXPLORER
Pchum Ben Festival, Cambodia | October 3 - 5
The festival is widely regarded as the most important festival in the Khmer religious calendar and is a time when
At dawn, donations and offerings are
many Cambodians pay respect to their
made at temples around the city. In the
deceased relatives and ancestors. Laypeople
evening, candlelight processions are held
offer food and alms to Buddhist monks
around the temples and hundreds of
in temples as indirect gifts to the dead.
colorful floats decorated with flowers,
Another method is to throw rice balls in the
incense and candles are set adrift down
air or rice onto the fields, seen as directly
the Mekong River as a thanksgiving to the
helping the spirits.
river spirits. The next day an exciting boat race is held on the Mekong River.
ISSUE 62 / Jul - Oct 2013
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EXOTISSIMO INTERVIEWS Is there anywhere you haven’t been to in Asia but would love to visit? I heard that the ‘floating mountains’ in the movie Avatar were inspired by the majestic peaks of Zhangjiajie National Park in China. The Southern province of Hunan, known for its excellent (spicy) cuisine and as the birthplace of Chairman Mao is an area I would love to see. As it’s fairly easy to get there from the main cities including Beijing, I will certainly explore this incredible area during my next trip to China.
Gaetan Decherf Sales Manager, Latin America
Where will your next adventure be to? My next adventure will take place amongst the hidden gems of Thailand’s southern coastline. I will journey to Khao Lak and kayak through the impressive Khao Sok National Park. I also aim to explore the Similan Islands and spend some time relaxing on the sleepy beaches of Koh Yao Noi near Phuket. There are so many stunning
Q A
islands to discover in this part of Thailand.
Where is the most remote place you have ever visited?
Do you have any advice for a first time visitor to Asia?
It’s probably the Sapa area of
As the saying goes, “it is better to travel than to arrive”, therefore
Northern Vietnam. This is an amazing
do not hurry and enjoy every moment before thinking about the
mountainous region where I spent
next stop. Take time to embrace what is in front of you now and
some time trekking. One day on the
don’t rush to the finish line.
trek we were unable to find a place to stay and ended up spending the night at a school in a remote village in the mountains. We prepared dinner for them as a way of saying thank-you. It actually turned out to be the best feast I’ve ever had in Asia.
Why do you think it is better to head off the tourist trail? Travelling off the beaten track is the best way to continually surprise yourself when travelling. While most travel companies offer the same classic routes to overcrowded places, travelling off the beaten track allows you to discover authentic cultures and find hidden gems while experiencing local traditions.
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EXOTISSIMO EXPLORER
Sapa area of Northern Vietnam.
ISSUE 62 / Jul - Oct 2013
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NXB Thông Tấn. Giấy ĐKKHXB số: 34-2013/CXB/117/04-01/ThT, cấp ngày 20/06/2013. In xong và nộp lưu chiểu Quý III/2013. Thực hiện: Tropika.vn Chịu trách nhiệm xuất bản: Vũ Quốc Khánh. Biên tập: Phương Lam Giang, Trần Ngọc Thương.
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EXOTISSIMO EXPLORER
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