Discova - A World of Possibilities

Page 1


A World of Possibilities

Opening doors to a world of possibilities.

Discova is about connecting people and places with a world of possibilities.

Connecting our trade partners with long-term strategic business opportunities. Connecting travellers with sights, cultures, and cuisines. Connecting communities with the potential to unlock sustainable development.

Our people and their love of travel is at the heart of our business. We are the travel people who work globally, live locally, and go the extra mile to extend your reach. I am very proud of the fact that 95% of our people are locals; we have our feet on the ground, allowing us to provide unrivalled destination expertise and an ability to adapt to any situation.

Our focus is on providing consistently increasing value and support for our business partners across the travel industry.

As part of Discova, I look forward to growing your business.

Discova is a leading destination management company with a solid presence across East, Southeast, and South Asia.

We specialise in providing comprehensive travel solutions tailored for B2B partners, ensuring seamless experiences from start to finish. Our extensive regional expertise of over 25 years and deep local connections enable us to craft bespoke itineraries that cater to diverse client needs, from leisure travel to corporate events and educational tours .

With 95% of our people being locals who have grown up in the communities we operate in, we are motivated by a deep commitment to sustainable livelihoods while preserving the beauty of the places we call home.

Our Story

In 2019, we joined the Flight Centre Travel Group (FCTG) family and formed Discova. With the backing of one of the world’s largest travel companies and prior local knowledge and experience in Asia, Discova is able to offer best-in-class tailored solutions to partners across the globe..

Unlocking a World of Possibilities

What we do for our partners:

Tailor-made Travel

Customised itineraries that travellers love

Group Series Travel

First-class group services for some of the biggest names in travel

Educational

Travel

Award-winning service learning, logistics and leisure time for educational groups

Day Tours & Transfers

For those who simply require bite-sized tastes of a destination or a reliable ride

Corporate Retreats and Incentives

Combining immersive travel, team bonding, and Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR)

Discova Educational Travel (DET)

A travel segment especially close to our hearts, we have specialised in educational travel experiences in Asia since the 1990s. Our dedicated DET Team knows how to structure immersive educational tours that flow beautifully to a realistic schedule and positively impact our destinations and visiting students alike. Together with student groups, we have completed a long, deeply meaningful list of community impact projects.

Today, we continue these life-changing projects in more and more destinations.

Rigorous health and safety audits

No project management fee

Authentic connections with local communities

The opportunity to make a real difference

Corporate Retreats

Beyond Retreats: Engaging CSR Experiences with Discova

Welcome to a new era of corporate retreats – where the focus is on more than relaxation. Discova’s unique approach combines immersive travel, team bonding, and Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR). Explore our destinations while contributing to local communities through meaningful development projects. Elevate your team’s synergy while leaving a positive legacy with each journey.

Customised Experiences

CSR-centric & Purpose-driven Programs

Local Insights, Global Reach

Expert Planning and Execution

Align your next corporate retreat with your CSR goals.

Vision, Purpose, and Core Values

Vision

To be Asia’s leading destination management company, specialised in experiential and responsible travel.

Purpose

To connect people and places with a world of possibilities.

Values

Travellers at Heart

It’s the thrill of getting out there and connecting with new people and cultures that inspires us all to deliver something special.

All Ears

To be the best at what we do, we listen carefully, adapt as needed and customise every part of our business to the needs of our partners, whether that be our product, our support or even our commercial agreements.

Hands On

In an industry where standout service is everything, we go the extra mile –making sure our on the ground experts are on-hand 24/7.

Feet on the Ground

We approach every tour, trip or experience with a home-grown perspective. We blend local knowledge of the places our partners and their travellers are visiting with an intuitive understanding of the travel experiences they’re expecting.

Eyes on the Future

When things change, we change with them. If there’s an opportunity to deliver a better travel experience for customers, or a better opportunity for partners, we make it happen.

Asia

Cambodia

When you think of Cambodia, the first thing that will likely come to mind is Angkor Wat – the glorious remnants of the once mighty Khmer Empire. When you learn about Cambodia, you’ll hear about the genocide – a dark period marred by war. But, when you experience Cambodia, you will see its kind, resilient and humble people, who, despite the tragedies endured, have never lost their spirit and infectious smile.

Trei Nhoar: Changing Lives Through Culturally Immersive Travel

Trei Nhoar, Siem Reap, is a fragile rural community composed of 10 villages who collectively struggled with access to quality healthcare, sanitation and clean water, and education.

Through our Educational Travel programs, visiting students were able to help provide the community with: 2 bathroom units & a shower room for the Communal Hall, 4 toilet units & 3 water filters for the local healthcare centre, a computer lab, now offering local students 4 classes/ week, and a safe, fun children’s playground for a local primary school.

The take-away for all

The community now benefits from the continued visits of curious leisure travellers and students alike, with locals sharing their daily habits and traditional crafts. Visitors thereby contribute to a growing sustainable, community-led project.

Indonesia

With over 17,000 islands, 300 languages and ethnic groups, Indonesia boasts a colourful mosaic of cultures and some of the most stunning natural scenery in the world. Amid towering volcanoes, untouched jungles and stunning palm-fringed beaches lies some of Asia’s most fascinating heritage and history. From Bali’s spiritual side to Java’s otherworldly volcanic landscapes, Indonesia offers a myriad of experiences that are both unique and unrivalled.

In Search of Indonesian Tattoo Culture (Walking Tour)

Indonesian people consider tattoo as art and a symbol of expression. This half-day walking tour in Ubud seeks to provide a deeper understanding of this revered culture through close encounters with a shaman and a tattoo artist to learn about the historic tradition of tattooing in Bali from a spiritual perspective.

Kaura Bali

Kaura Bali offers an immersive sanctuary that seamlessly blends comfort, eco-friendliness, and cultural exploration. Nestled amidst the lush hills of Manggis in East Bali, this retreat has been thoughtfully crafted to embrace sustainability and offers a variety of communitydriven activities, from cooking classes to hiking in search of waterfalls, granting visitors a one-of-a-kind insight into the heart and soul of Balinese life.

E-bike Ride from Kaura to Virgin Beach

Take a pedal-assist e-bike ride to explore the enchanting region of East Bali via breathtaking mountain vistas and lush rice fields that lead to a stunning beach. On the way, stop at a bee farm, founded and operated by a deaf couple with a great story and amazing honey! At the beach, enjoy a swim in the blue waters situated alongside black volcanic cliffs, and sit down for a local lunch including freshly caught fish.

Japan

A country where ancient traditions meet state-of–the–art technology, where Buddhist temples adorn most cities and where entire districts are dedicated to anime and manga. It’s an attention to detail that allows Japan to excel in everything it touches. From an uber–efficient public transport system to the immaculate outdoors and world-famous cuisine, Japan is unique and simply captivating.

New Tokyo Highlights Tour

Visit Asakusa, a historic entertainment district, which is now home to charming shops and restaurants, and the oldest temple in the city, Sensoji. Walk along Nakamise Street, a centuries old souvenir street, to buy that perfect souvenir or try a local delicacy. Travel across Tokyo to Meiji Shrine, one of the most famous Shinto shrines in Japan. To end your tour, dive headfirst into Shibuya, the pulsating and fashionable centre of Tokyo, that also boasts of some of the best entertainment in town.

Laos

Laos might not keep up with the tropical beaches or grandiose landmarks of its neighbouring countries, but the landlocked nation possesses unrivalled charms that mesmerise travellers in endless ways. A certain serenity has enveloped the entire country, from the scenic jungle-clad limestones of the north and Luang Prabang’s picturesque UNESCO Heritage streets to the laid-back capital of Vientiane. Spared by mass tourism, Laos has managed to retain many of its age-old traditions, authentic culture and the genuine smiles of the local people.

Merit Preparation Experience

The day begins with a visit to a local market, where you’ll handpick fresh ingredients with the guidance of a friendly local family. Next, head to their charming home to learn the art of cooking authentic Lao dishes. The highlight awaits at a nearby Buddhist temple, where, under the warm guidance of your host, you’ll offer your culinary creations to novices and monks. After the ceremony, savour a delightful lunch at the family’s house, capping off a memorable morning of cultural immersion.

A priceless introduction to the local Buddhist faith of Laos, and the warm hospitality of its people.

Malaysia & Borneo

Bisected by 500 kilometres of sea, Malaysia is a true melting pot of cultures, with Chinese, Malay, Indian and European influences. Whilst the Peninsula offers frenetic cities, street art, tea plantations and some of the world’s best street food, Borneo is home to ancient rainforests, rare wildlife, rugged mountains and some of the world’s best scuba diving. Like magnets, these two different worlds combined, making Malaysia one of Asia’s most attractive destinations.

Tip of Borneo Cooking Class Experience

A unique private tour that takes you from Kota Kinabalu to the scenic ‘Tip of Borneo.’ During this hands-on adventure, you’ll participate in an exclusive cooking class, where you’ll pick fresh ingredients from a garden and create delicious dishes. Afterward, indulge in a tasty lunch featuring your own culinary creations. Explore the beautiful surroundings of the ‘Tip of Borneo,’ known for its stunning views and tranquil atmosphere.

An eco-friendly cooking class in a stunning, remote destination.

Myanmar

From ancient Burma to modern Myanmar, the Southeast Asian country enchants travellers today as it did a century ago. From seeing the golden Shwedagon Pagoda glisten in the sun to taking in the temples of Bagan shrouded in morning mist – there’s something magical about Myanmar’s cultural landscape. Equally as special are the Burmese people. Home to a multitude of different ethnic groups, you’ll be welcomed by a friendly face, usually with patches of traditional thanaka paste, wherever you go.

Mandalay to Yae Tagon

Escape the city of Mandalay to smell the flowers at an orchid farm and listen to locals talk about their daily life. Take in the picturesque views of the countryside, hike through the forest to Shwe Hin Tha Cave, and get a taste of the local specialties along the way – this day trip to Yae Tagon mountain is an experience for all the senses.

Our on-the-ground team has incorporated stops at local food stalls, which introduce travellers to traditional Burmese specialities, including green tea, tempura and tea leaf salad.

Singapore

Bustling, diverse and modern, Singapore is one of Asia’s most dynamic cities. Developed from a sleepy fishing village into a glittering metropolis, the island city-state is famous for its glitzy skyscrapers, luxurious shopping malls and super clean streets. However, Singapore is far from sterile. Once you start peeling back the concrete surface, you’ll encounter a colourful mix of cultures, a diverse range of flavours and extensive green spaces – all of which make Singapore a truly unique destination.

Street Art and Graffiti Tour

Explore the vibrant world of Kampong Glam, with its bright fabrics, Persian rugs and gemstones. Together we explore the rich history of the “Arab Kampong”, hear stories of a pioneering Arab family with their own MRT station, and catch the aroma of freshly roasted coffee while passing popular cafes. Along the learning journey, encounter one of Singapore’s last traditional barbers, and unleash your artistic side in a legal and approved graffiti workshop, guided by a skilled street artist.

An exclusive Discova graffiti class.

Thailand

Thailand has been on the traveller’s map for many decades. And not without reason! Most famous for its tropical islands and whitesanded beaches, the Kingdom’s hilly north offers respite from the bustling streets of Bangkok, whilst the country’s north-eastern region, Isaan, is still relatively untouched by tourism. However, what makes Thailand truly special are its friendly locals, mouth-watering food and magnificent temples that weave like an underlying thread through the entire country.

Bioluminescence & Sea Canoes in Phang Nga Bay by Speedboat

This tour offers a spectacular afternoon and early evening out around Phang Nga bay, where you can witness the incredible natural wonder of bioluminescence and enjoy sea canoeing activities. What exactly is bioluminescence you might ask! Well, it is the capacity of some sea creatures to emit light and can be found in various forms in the Phang Nga Bay area. This tour also offers sea canoe exploration at Phanak Island and Hong island to see rock formations and hidden lagoons and sunset dinner at the James Bond Island.

Vietnam

If you had to describe Vietnam in one word, ‘diverse’ is among the most fitting. Along its 3,260 kilometres of coastline, the country stretches from remote rice terraces and limestone islands to pristine beaches and lush swampland, featuring buzzing cities and quaint towns along the way. A similar diversity can be found in its culture, featuring prominent influences from the Chinese and French, and the flavours that make Vietnamese cuisine world-famous.

Mai Chau: A Lifechanging Community Development Story

In 2007, we began working with communities in the Mai Chau district of northern Vietnam to support the community in various development areas.

Fast forward to 2022: 4 kilometres of road have been built, 5 dams reinforced or constructed, 10 Happy Libraries opened where students can borrow and read books in comfort, and a cattle bank created for local farmers.

Thanks to the financial support of many of our commercial partners and visitors, all of this and more was made possible.

The community here has been trained to host guests and facilitate cultural activities, thereby ensuring that Mai Chau continues to benefit from the visits of travellers.

Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka is where adventure meets culture in an awe-inspiring blend.

Nestled in the heart of the Indian Ocean, the tropical destination offers a wealth of untapped opportunities for both cultural as well as adventureoriented tours. From hiking lush tea plantations to wildlife safaris in untamed national parks, and exploring ancient temples and pristine beaches, Sri Lanka has it all.

Cycle, Hike & Safari Through Sri Lanka’s Natural Wonders

Discover Sri Lanka by bike over 8 days, touring from the capital, Colombo, through lush highlands to the coast. Along the way, you’ll enjoy South Asia’s best cycling, nature-packed hikes and safaris through national parks, luxurious hotels, delicious cuisine and the rich history and culture of Sri Lanka’s welcoming people.

A Holistic Approach to Responsible Tourism Development

The cornerstone of our strategy is the ‘local first’ policy, a commitment to continually seek innovative ways to maintain sustainable local supply chains and promote local enterprises. By prioritising the growth of local businesses, we ensure that a significant portion of the generated revenue stays within the communities we touch, fostering long-term development. At Discova, we believe that that development also requires a holistic approach. We do so by focusing on three key pillars of responsible travel. This includes initiatives that target sustainable economic development, cultural preservation and social inclusiveness, as well as environmental protection in all our destinations.

Affiliations

We’re proud to be members of the following like-minded organisations. They train us, educate us, and make us do better when it comes to ethical travel.

Assets

In a growing number of our destinations, we own our own fleet of vehicles, boats, and bicycles, along with our own offices and exclusive tours. This enables us to have complete control over the quality, reliability, and customisation of our services, ensuring a seamless and unique travel experience for your clients.

With our dedicated infrastructure and resources, we can swiftly adapt to changing conditions, maintain cost-efficiency, and offer a wide range of tailored experiences.

Turn static files into dynamic content formats.

Create a flipbook
Issuu converts static files into: digital portfolios, online yearbooks, online catalogs, digital photo albums and more. Sign up and create your flipbook.