Indochina Pioneer Brochures 2013 & 2014 by Duc Pham

The Professional Tour Operator based in Vietnam

Vietnam- Laos Cambodia

2013 - 2014

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CONTENT ABOUT INDOCHINA PIONEER VIETNAM OVERVIEW BEFORE DEPARTURE CHECK LIST MORE ABOUT VIETNAM HANOI HALONG BAY SAPA HUE HOI AN NHA TRANG PHAN THIET MEKONG DELTA HO CHI MINH CITY PHU QUOC ISLAND CAMBODIA CAMBODIA OVERVIEW BEFORE DEPARTURE CHECK LIST SIEM REAP PHNOM PENH SIHANOUKVILLE LAOS - LAOS AT GALANCE BEFORE DEPARTURE CHECK LIST LUANG PRABANG VIENTIANE FEATURES TRIPS TOUR NO.1 INDOCHINA PAST&PRESENT TOUR NO.2 PHU QUOC ISLAND ESCAPE TOUR NO.3 HALONG BAY TO ANGKO WAT TOUR NO.4 VIETNAM BEACH VACATION TOUR NO.5 VIETNAM’S WORLD HERITAGE SITES TOUR NO.6 MOUNTAINS TO THE SEA TOUR NO.7 LAOS NORTHERN HIGHLIGHTS TOUR NO.8 CAMBODIA SPECIAL HOW DO WE CHOOSE OUR HOTELS? HOTEL LIST ADDITIONAL WHY INDOCHINA PIONEER AND BOOKING GUIDE

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ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS INDOCHINA PIONEER TEAM OFFERS THEIR SINCERE THANKS TO OUR CLIENTS, COLLEGES, TOUR GUIDES, DRIVERS, SUPPLIERS, HOTEL MANAGERS AND PARTNERS WHO HAD GREATLY CONTRIBUTED PHOTOS, INFORMATION, IDEAS AND INPUT TO THIS BROCHURE. SPECIAL THANKS ALSO GO TO MS. JANET DRAPER, A VALUED FORMER CLIENT, WHO SPENT A GREAT DEAL OF TIME, VOLUNTEERING TO EDIT AND PICK OUT THE LITTLE ERRORS OF THE CONTENTS. WE SEND OUR MOST SINCERE APPRECIATION TO MR & MRS SOUTER AND MR. MATTHEW HUNTER. WITHOUT YOUR BEAUTIFUL PHOTOS, THIS BROCHURE CANNOT LOOK THIS GOOD! WE WILL APPRECIATE THE CONTINUOUS SUPPORTS FROM OUR CLIENTS, SUPPLIERS, CONTRACTORS, TOUR GUIDES, DRIVERS, RESTAURANT OWNERS, HOTEL MANAGERS WITH YOUR ORIGINAL MATERIALS INCLUDING PHOTOS, INFORMATION, IDEAS AND YOUR INSPIRATIONS FOR THE NEXT VERSIONS OF INDOCHINA PIONEER'S BROCHURES.

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ABOUT INDOCHINA PIONEER PROFESSIONAL, INSIGHTFUL, CARING AND RESPONSIBLE ARE WORDS THAT BEST DESCRIBE OUR COMPANY, INDOCHINA PIONEER. OUR EXCELLENT REPUTATION HAS BEEN ACHIEVED BECAUSE WE OFFER EACH CLIENT OUR “PERSONAL-TOUCH” WITH EXCELLENT 24/7 CUSTOMER SERVICE, SUSTAINABLE BUSINESS PRACTICE, FINANCIAL TRANSPARENCY, AND OUR SUPERIOR COMMUNICATION WITH CLIENTS, RESPONDING WITHIN 24 HOURS OR LESS! ALL OF OUR DIRECTORS AND EMPLOYEES ARE VIETNAMESE, HAVING MANY YEARS OF EXPERIENCE IN THE TOURIST INDUSTRY. OUR BUSINESS PARTNERS ARE ALL COMMITTED WITH LONG TERM CONTRACTS, BENEFITING YOU, THE CLIENT. INDEPENDENT TRAVELERS ARE ASSURED GREAT VALUE WITH OUR PERSONALIZED CUSTOM HOLIDAYS.....YOU CHOOSE, WE DELIVER!

Quyen (Le Sy Quyen) - Managing Director / Co- Founder: Trained to be an English teacher but later fell in love with traveling. Quyen spent 8 years guiding and leading tour groups throughout Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos. Since 2009, Quyen has been the Managing Director of Indochina Pioneer and enjoys watching the substantial growth of both the company sales and the Indochina Team.

Lam (Duong Dai Lam) - Sales Manager / Co- Founder: Lam obtained his BA in English for Translation and Interpretation in 2001. Living in Hanoi he soon realized that with his knowledge of the English language together with his passion for people and travel that his future was destined to be in the tourism sector. After 7 years of working for large International companies leading tours all over South East Asia, Lam joined forces with Quyen for the birth of Indochina Pioneer. His position with the Company is primarily Sales Manager and Customer Service Manager.

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VIETNAM OVERVIEW: F

irstly we offer you over 3,000 km of sandy tropical beaches and picturesque islands for your pleasure and relaxation! Vietnam has more than 4,000 years of history, 54 ethnicity's, a variety of cultural backgrounds and amazing lush landscapes. for those of you who enjoy exploring a countries cuisine we offer more than 500 dishes of traditional food, both in 1st class restaurants and from street-side vendors! Hanoi was selected as one of the top 10 cities for food in the world with Vietnam's national dish of Pho being named as one of the top 5 street-foods in the world! also offered are top notch hotels with world class service and spas and beach resorts. we have a very stable society, plus a safe tourist environment. Vietnam was recently rated the safest place in Asia for the single female traveler! a shoppers paradise can also be found here, with areas offering inexpensive made to measure clothes, and other areas offering upscale internationally renowned clothing labels, handbags. shoes and much more! Between our 4,000 year history and the 21st century we think Vietnam has something to offer everyone, so why not make this your chosen destination for the holiday of a lifetime in 2013 – 2014. The truly hospitable Vietnamese people are waiting to welcome you to their homeland with genuine warmth and open arms!

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COUNTRY PROFILE Official Name: The Socialist Republic of Vietnam Population: 84 million Capital City: Hanoi, population 6.5 million People: Viet (Kinh), 53 difference ethnic minorities include: Muong, Tay, Khmer, Mong, Dao, Kadai, Han, Tang. Language: Vietnamese Currency: Vietnam dong (VND) Growth: 7,6% from 2006 to 2008 Major Industries: Agriculture, Industry and Service Time Zone: GMT +7 hours Electricity: 220V, 50 Hz; 2 pin plugs Weights and Measurements: Metric International Dialing Code: +84

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Hanoi Capital Halong

Donghoi

Hue Danang Hoi An

Quy Nhon Nha Trang Da Lat

Phan Thiet

Ho Chi Minh City

Mekong Delta

BEFORE DEPARTURE CHECK LIST TRAVEL INSURANCE (compulsory) Indochina Pioneer will do everything possible to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.However, certain risks are involved and should be recognized by participants. Thus, we highly recommend the purchase of short-term travel insurance for our adventures. Travel Insurance is a cost effective way to protect yourself and your equipment in the event of problems due to -Canceled Trips, Delays, Medical Problems, Baggage Loss or Damage. You can buy travel insurance very easily and cheaply online. VISAS/PASSPORTS 1. Passports must be valid for 6 months after final departure date

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2. Visitors must obtain visa approval prior to entry. Indochina Pioneer can arrange visas at reduced cost for visitors who book one of our tours. The procedure is as follows:  Passport details and arrival and departure dates are faxed to Indochina Pioneer not later than 14 days before passengers' departure to Vietnam.  Indochina Pioneer submits details to the Immigration Department.  The Immigration Department emails the approval letter to Indochina Pioneer who then forwards it to the client. The client then brings this along with them at arrival

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IMMUNIZATIONS Before traveling to Vietnam it is important for the visitor to have the right protection against diseases and to understand fully what type of vaccinations that will be needed according to the regions he/she will be visiting. For general protection for visitors to Vietnam, it is important to have the following vaccinations:  Hepatitis A and B  Tetanus  Typhoid SUGGESTED PACKING LIST  Personal clothing items, toiletries, medication  Sunhat  Sarong (to cover your shoulders should you enter temples or pagodas)

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Sunscreen Insect repellant Light weight clothing for the summer months Warm clothing for winter in Hanoi and in mountainous areas Camera with film (you can easily buy extra memory cards) Adapter for plugs and chargers for camera/phone/I pod etc Small daypack for day trips and overnight trip to Halong Bay Appropriate shoes for trekking, cycling or walking in caves (Halong Bay) Sleeping sheet for train travel (can also be bought in Vietnam for 3 dollars) Ear plugs and sleep mask (for train journeys)

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Please note: Domestic airlines do impose restrictions on baggage at approx 20kg maximum, Water bottle and helmet (for cycling trips only) so travel lightly where possible. Also the trains cabins and boat cabins in Halong Bay have limited space so consider this when packing. Soft luggage is recommended where possible. MONEY Trades at approximately 20, 800 to USD1. The US dollar, preferably crisp clean bills, is widely accepted among major shops and restaurants. Travelers cheques can be cashed at authorized foreign exchange outlets and banks and require presentation of passport, in rural areas its impossible to change these. There is normally a 2 to 5 percent transaction fee for cashing Travelers

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cheques. Visa and Master card are becoming more accepted in many of the bigger hotels and restaurants, especially in the larger cities. Make sure that the Vietnamese notes you receive are not torn, this is because many shops and restaurants will not accept them, if you receive a torn note as them to change it. Also try not to change too much money at one time, as you will end up with a large wad of notes.

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MORE ABOUT VIETNAM CLIMATE Vietnam's elongated shape includes tropical and subtropical zone and is responsible for the varied climate in the country. Generally speaking the best time to travel in Vietnam is when there is a reduced chance of rain; that is during April/May and October/November. The south is hot year round and has two seasons: one wet the other dry. The wet season lasts from May to October and you can expect daily downpours. These are usually brief and easy to predict. The dry season from November to April is generally sunny and humid. SAFETY Vietnam was recently voted one of the safest destinations in the world. Women and independent travelers have

found it relatively hassle-free and easy to travel throughout the country. Incidents of petty theft and bag snatching are more widespread in Ho Chi Minh City and to a lesser extent Hanoi. As with anywhere in the world, do keep your bags zipped up and close to you at all times and do not carry all your money on you at once, keep some locked up in your hotel safe. CUISINE Vietnam is a culinary delight! A typical Vietnamese meal consists of rice or noodles with soup, a stir-fry, and another main dish and is eaten on a communal basis. The dishes are usually not spicy and are accompanied with chili sauce, fish sauce and soy sauce. The traditional Vietnamese breakfast is Pho – a

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large bowl of rice noodles flavored with sliced beef or chicken and fragrant broth and garnished with fresh coriander and bean CLOTHING Light, comfortable, easy to launder clothing is recommended. The temperature during winter months in Hanoi and the rainy season in the central region can be cool; a sweater or light jacket can be handy. Good walking shoes and sandals that can be easily removed are recommended, especially when entering temples and people's homes. When entering temples please try to cover knees and shoulders as a mark of respect. PEOPLE The majority of the population is comprised of the Viet

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or Kinh (85%) people who speak the tonal Vietnamese. The minority population is made up of over 50 ethnic hill tribe people who mainly live in the central and northern mountainous areas of the country. The bestknown hill tribes are the Tay, Hmong, Zao, White and Black Thai (both mainly from the north), and the Hoa. Each hill tribe has its own unique customs and dialect and some are able to speak Vietnamese. LANGUAGE Vietnamese, the official language, is a tonal language that can be compared to Cambodia's official language, Khmer. With each syllable, there are six different tones that can be used, which change the definition and it often makes it difficult for foreigners to pick up the language.

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There are other languages spoken as well such as Chinese, Khmer, Cham and other languages spoken by tribes inhabiting the mountainous regions. Although there are some similarities to Southeast Asian languages, such as Chinese, Vietnamese is thought to be a separate language group, although a member of the AustroAsiatic language family. In written form, Vietnamese uses the Roman alphabet and accent marks to show tones. This system of writing called Quoc Ngu, was created by Catholic missionaries in the 17th century to translate the scriptures. Eventually this system, particularly after World War I, replaced one using Chinese characters chu nom), which had been the unofficial written form used for centuries.

TIME Vietnam lies in the same time zone with Thailand, meaning seven hours ahead of GMT/UTC. So close to the equator, Vietnam has no daylight saving time (summer time).

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HANOI CAPITAL The City of Peace Hanoi has been inhabited since at least 3000 BC. One of the first known permanent settlements is the Co Loa Citadel founded around 200 BC.

Sapa - Lao Cai

Hanoi Capital

Halong

Hanoi is relatively small and runs at quite an unhurried pace for the Capital of Vietnam. Resting in the Red River delta region, the center is a mixture of tree-lined avenues, maze like back streets with lively merchants, temples and lakes, mixed together with many fine colonial buildings. A city between the rivers, built from lowland, Hanoi has many scenic lakes and it is sometimes called "city of lakes". Under French rule, as an administrative centre for the French colony of Indochina, the French colonial architecture style became dominant and many examples still remain today. A variety of options for entertainment in Hanoi can be found throughout the city. Modern and traditional theaters, cinemas, karaoke bars, dance clubs, bowling alleys, and an abundance of opportunities for shopping provide leisure activity for both locals and tourists. Hanoi has been named as one of the top 10 cities for shopping in Asia!

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HALONG BAY The World Heritage Sapa - Lao Cai

Hanoi Capital

Halong The bay consists of a dense cluster of over 3,000 limestone monolithic Islands each topped with thick jungle vegetation, rising spectacularly from the ocean. Several of the islands are hollow, with enormous caves, Hang Đau Go (Wooden stakes cave) is the largest grotto in the Ha Long area and a popular visitor attraction. In 1962, Ha Long Bay was deemed a Nationally Protected Area. This magnificent area is undoubtedly Vietnam's greatest natural wonder. In 1994 Ha Long Bay was recognized by UNESCO as a WORLD HERITAGE SITE. A community of around 1,600 people live on Ha Long Bay in four fishing villages. Historical research surveys have shown the presence of prehistorical human beings in this area tens of thousands years ago! Ha Long City or Bai Chay is 160km from Hanoi (3 hours along highway 5) and 63km from Haiphong and is North Vietnam's most developed resort with a picturesque backdrop of wooded hills.

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SAPA Sapa - Lao Cai

Hanoi Capital

Cascading rice terraces and lush vegetation surround this tiny settlement perched on the eastern slopes of the Hoang Lien Mountains. Jesuit priests first arrived here in 1918 sending word of the pleasant climate back to Hanoi and by 1922 Sapa was transformed into a French hill station. This idyllic colonial retreat lasted until the Japanese invasion in 1941. Many colonial villas and hotels were destroyed or abandoned during the following decades of war.

Halong

With the economic reforms and opening of the country to tourism in the 1990s Sapa gained a fresh lease on life as it was revived by local entrepreneurs and discovered by foreign visitors. Sapa is home to diverse hill people as well as the ethnic Kinh. A growing number of visitors come for the mountain air, stunning views, trekking and local markets.

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HUE Donghoi

Known for its historic monuments, which have earned it a place in UNESCO's WORLD HERITAGE SITES. The Citadel is a must see for visitors.

Hue Danang Hoi An

The Imperial capital of the Nguyen Emperors, Hue was the political center of Vietnam from 1802-1945. The Emperor Gia Long founded the Nguyen dynasty, consolidated the country after several hundred years of civil war and began construction of the citadel. This was the first time in Vietnamese history that a single court controlled the country from north to south. In 1883 the French invaded Hue. Tonkin and Annam became French protectorates, but they found it expedient to maintain the illusion of imperial rule although the early days of their rule were marked by a rapid succession of emperors as rulers either fled or were replaced.

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HOI AN Donghoi

Hue

Danang

Hoi An

Hoi An is an ancient port town on the Thu Bon River. Today tourism has taken over as the town's major industry. The first inhabitants of the area were the Champa who occupied the area from the 2nd - 15th centuries. Then under Vietnamese rule the city attracted foreign trade, particularly with China, supplying silk, fabrics, tea, pepper and medicines. Other ships came from Japan, Portugal, Spain, India and France. Old maps show Hoi An (then known as Faifo) as one of the most important trading ports of SE Asia. However internal conflicts and the silting up of the river mouth led to a decline in the early 19th century when Danang rose to prominence. In 1999, the "old town" was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO as a well-preserved example of a Southeast Asian trading port of the 15th to 19th centuries, with buildings that display a unique blend of local and foreign influences. Hoi An is known today for it's beautiful beaches, great restaurants, and the numerous tailors who will make you made-to-measure clothing and shoes at very reasonable prices, in 24 hours!

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NHA TRANG Quy Nhon

Nha Trang Da Lat

The port city of Nha Trang is the biggest city in Khanh Hoa province, and lies at the mouth of the Cai River, 256 miles (412 km) northeast of Saigon. Khanh Hoa is studded with over 200 picturesque islands and its 200 kilometer coastline abounds in beautiful white sandy beaches. The Khanh Hoa coast is the first place in Vietnam to welcome the morning sunshine and it enjoys 300 days of sun a year at a comfortable temperature of 26.5 degrees Celsius. Nha Trang is well known for its pristine beaches and excellent scuba diving and is fast becoming a popular destination for international tourists.

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PHAN THIET Quy Nhon Nha Trang Da Lat

Phan Thiet

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This is one of the best laid-back getaways in Vietnam. The town of Phan Thiet itself is a bustling little fishing port -- quite picturesque and good for a day's visit -but you'll want to get out to the long, sprawling, sandy stretch of beach to the east: Mui Ne. This is a popular weekend getaway from nearby Saigon, and development in recent years has been rapid. You'll find some very nice upscale resorts and comfy little boutique bungalow properties.

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MEKONG DELTA T.P HCM

Mekong Delta

The Mekong Delta “Nine Dragon river delta” is the region in southwestern Vietnam where the Mekong River approaches and empties into the sea through a network of distributaries. The Mekong delta region encompasses a large portion of southwestern Vietnam of 39,000 square kilometres (15,000 sq mi). The size of the area covered by water depends on the season. Vietnam's Mekong Delta is a vibrant, lush landscape of increasingly modern cities amid sprawling rice fields and jungle. This area is home to lush orchard gardens and rice fields and famous for its unique floating markets and plenty of exotic tripcal fruits. The Mekong River and its branches shape life in the region.

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Da Lat w w w. i n d o c h i n a p i o n e e r. c o m

Phan Thiet

T.p HCM

Vung Tau

Can Tho

HO CHI MINH CITY Ho Chi Minh City, also known as Saigon, is frenetic Asian city of markets, street clogged with scooters, street side food stalls, as well as foreign restaurants office blocks and shopping malls. It is Vietnam's economic powerhouse and the rate of the progress over the last few years has been remarkable. Saigon is an exciting and exotic city where the pace of life never dims and which is now looking forward, with great optimism, after its tumultuous 20th century. Today, the city's core is still adorned with wide elegant boulevards and historic French colonial buildings. The most prominent structures in the city center are Reunification Palace, City Hall, the Municipal Theatre also known as the Opera House, City Post Office, State Bank Office, City People's Court and the Notre-Dame Cathedral.

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PHU QUOC ISLAND Page 21 INDOCHINA PIONEER

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120km (75 miles) W (over sea) from Rach Gia (Rach Gia is 250km/155 miles S of Saigon by road). The same size as Singapore, the island of Phu Quoc lies off the west coast of Vietnam's Mekong Delta. At times claimed by Cambodia and Thailand, the island is now like an armed fortress of the Vietnamese navy, and 80% of the island is protected as the Phu Quoc National Forest. Exploring the dirt track byways of the forested isle, among picturesque pepper plantations and long stretches of deserted beach, is a hoot. A visit to Phu Quoc is a good, affordable opportunity to relax, spend time on the beach, and snorkel or scuba-dive. Get there soon and someday you'll be able to say, "I went there before it was touristy."

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C AMBODIA Page 23 INDOCHINA PIONEER

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Banlung Siem Reap

Phnom Penh

Sihanoukville

CAMBODIA

OVERVIEW:

OFFICIALLY KNOWN AS THE KINGDOM OF CAMBODIA. THIS IS A COUNTRY OF LEGENDS, SUPERLATIVES, AND WELCOMING PEOPLE! AFTER YEARS OF ISOLATION, ANGKOR WAT IS NOW OPENING HER ARMS TO WELCOME THE WORLD. FROM A CULTURAL HOLIDAY TO AN EXTREME ADVENTURE, FROM A RURAL EXPERIENCE TO A BEACH ESCAPE, FROM FAMILY TRIPS, GROUP VACATIONS OR COMPANY CONVENTIONS, THEY ARE READY TO ACCOMMODATE YOU! COME ENJOY CAMBODIA BEFORE SHE MERGES INTO THE MODERN WORLD! YOUR TIME SPENT IN THIS BEAUTIFUL COUNTRY WILL NOT ONLY BE EDUCATIONAL & CULTURAL, BUT A TIME FOR DISCOVERY & RELAXATION. AND LET'S NOT FORGET.........GREAT PRICING! Official Name: Kingdom of Cambodia Population: 14,2 million Capital City: Phnom Penh, population c.1 million People: Khmers (96%), minorities include Vietnamese, Chinese, Khmer Islam, Tumpoun, Kreung, Kra Chok, Kavet, Brao and Jorai Language: Khmer Currency: Riel Growth: 5% from 2000 to 2004 Major Industries: Clothing, Agriculture, Tourism Time Zone: GMT +7 hours

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BEFORE DEPARTURE CHECK LIST TRAVEL INSURANCE (compulsory) Indochina Pioneer Vietnam will do everything possible to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.However, certain risks are involved and should be recognized by participants. Thus, we highly recommend the purchase of short-term travel insurance for our adventures. Travel Insurance is a cost effective way to protect yourself and your equipment in the event of problems due to -Canceled Trips, Delays, Medical Problems, Baggage Loss or Damage. You can buy travel insurance very easily and cheaply online, we recommend www.worldnomads.com VISAS/PASSPORTS A passport with at least six month validity is necessary. A visa is required for most nationalities and is available upon arrival at both Phnom Penh and Siem Reap international airports. A tourist visa costs 20 US$, a business visa 25 US$. Two passport photographs should be submitted with the visa application form IMMUNIZATIONS Before travelling to Cambodia, it is important to ensure that you have adequate protection against disease.

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About two months before departure you should consult your tropical medicines doctor who will advise you as to the type of vaccinations that you will need. These will vary depending on the regions that you plan on visiting. Bear in mind that there is a malaria risk in rural parts of Cambodia. Consult your tropical medicines doctor for the latest information. In general, most visitors to Cambodia require the following vaccinations:  Hepatitis A and B  Tetanus  Typhoid  Polio  Diphtheria If you have any special condition or allergy that might require attention overseas, have your physician write a letter describing the nature of the condition and the treatment. Always carry the letter on your person. As outlined above, you should be aware that medical services in Cambodia are basic and might not be readily available during all or parts of your trip. It's also a good idea to bring your own basic

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medicine kit with you containing some basics like paracetamol since brand names of medicines that are familiar to you might not be available in pharmacies here SUGGESTED PACKING LIST  Personal clothing items, toiletries, medication  Sunhat  Sarong (to cover your shoulders should you enter temples or pagodas) Sunscreen  Insect repellant  Light weight clothing for the summer months  Camera (you can easily buy extra memory cards)  Adapter for plugs and chargers for camera/phone/Ipod etc  Water bottle and helmet (for cycling trips only) MONEY The official Cambodian currency is known as the Riel. American dollars are however Cambodia and even preferred in larger stores and supermarkets. However, the riel is more practical and economical to use for smaller, day to day items such as buying fruits and vegetables, paying motorbike drivers etc. Credit Cards, ATMs and

Foreign Money Exchange: ATM's are widely available in Phnom Penh, Siem Reap and Sihanoukville; they give out US dollars. There is however no ATM outside of these 3 destinations. Heading to the countryside it is recommended that you carry cash with you (in small notes as people may have difficulty in getting change). Banks change all major currencies with relatively little hassle. Tourists with traveler cheques are advised to cash them at the bank as few shops and other outlets have facilities to change them. Exchange Rates At time of writing, the rates of exchange are: 1 Euro: 5,780 riel and 1 USD: 4,580 riel.

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SIEM REAP

iem Reap is the capital city of the Siem Reap Province in northwestern Cambodia. Siem Reap has colonial and Chinese-style architecture in the Old French Quarter, and around the Old Market. In the city, there are traditional Apsara dance performances, craft shops, silk farms, rice-paddy countryside, fishing villages and a bird sanctuary near the Tonle Sap Lake. As the gateway to the magnificent temples of Angkor, Siem Reap is sitting on Southeast Asia's biggest draw card, yet the town and its people still retain their countryside outlook and wonderful sense of Cambodian hospitality. The name “Siem Reap” actually means “Thais defeated," in reflection of the various times the ownership over Angkor fell to expansionist Thai kingdoms and was subsequently retaken by Khmers. Located at the northwest edge of the Tonle Sap Lake or “Great Lake,” civilization at Angkor relied on the resource-rich lake to support the construction of the temples, some of which took decades to build.

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PHNOM PENH

ituated at the confluence of the Mekong, Tonle Bassac and Tonle Sap Rivers, Cambodia's capital was moved here from Angkor in the 1430s. Perfectly situated for trade, Phnom Penh had become a regional power by the mid 16th century. Later Vietnamese and Thai incursions reduced the increasingly isolated kingdom to a buffer state between these powers until the arrival of the French in 1863 who redesigned the city in its current grid pattern. Once known as the “Pearl of Asia”, it was considered one of the loveliest French-built cities in Indochina in the 1920s. Phnom Penh, along with Siem Reap and Sihanoukville, are significant global and domestic tourist destinations for Cambodia. Founded in 1434, the city is noted for its beautiful and historical architecture and attractions. There are a number of surviving French colonial buildings scattered along the grand boulevards.The Central market Phsar Thmei is a major tourist hot spot. The four wings of the yellow colored market are teeming with numerous stalls selling gold and silver jewellery, antique coins, clothing, clocks, flowers, food, fabrics and shoes.

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SIHANOUKVILLE “Unspoilt islands, pleasant rural scenry" "Unspoilt islands, pleasant rural scenery" also known as Kampong Saom. As the newest Cambodian city, Sihanoukville doesn't have a long history like Phnom Penh or Siem Reap. It was founded in 1960 after Independence from France, as a port to connect the city with International trade. Located on the coast of Cambodia, about halfway between Thailand and Vietnam, on the Bay of Thailand. It's locally know as Kampong Saom. A spread out tourist town visited by both foreigners and local people from all over the country. Three sides of the town are bordered by tropical beaches and islands. It is filled with empty beaches, crowded beaches, seafood, restaurants, bars, Buddhist Temples, casinos, hotels, and yet more beaches! At several hundred places English is spoken; with many French speakers here as well. About 20 other languages are also spoken at various guesthouses and restaurants.

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Luong Prabang

LAOS Vientiane

LAOS AT A GLANCE: Capital: Vientiane Population: 6,834,345 Ethnic groups: Lao 55%, Khmou 11%, Hmong 8%, other (over 100 minor ethnic groups) 26% Languages: Lao (official), French, English, and various ethnic languages Religions: Buddhist 67%, Christian 1.5%, other and unspecified 31.5% Today, although Laos is still a developing country, its Government welcomes visitors, and its economy is growing and transforming this once war-torn land. Laos has some good natural resources that include gold, copper, zinc, and some oil reserves. The country also has excellent timber resources and grows great quantities of rice. Fishing in the rivers is a source of local food and income.

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BEFORE DEPARTURE CHECK LIST TRAVEL INSURANCE Travel Insurance (compulsory) Indochina Pioneer Vietnam will do everything possible to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip. However, certain risks are involved and should be recognized by travellers. Therefore we highly recommend the purchase of short-term travel insurance for your adventure. Travel Insurance is a cost effective way to protect yourself in the event of problems due to Canceled Trips, Delays, Medical Problems, Baggage Loss or Damage. You can buy travel insurance very easily and cheaply from your airline provider, or we recommend http://www.worldnomads.com/ VISAS/PASSPORTS We strongly advise that you make copies of all important documents (visa, passport, credit cards, airline tickets, etc.) If they are lost, it will make Page 33 INDOCHINA PIONEER

arranging replacements so much easier! When applying for your Laos visa your passport MUST be valid for at least six months from the date of entry into Laos. You can get your visa in advance at any Laos embassy which will be valid for 30 days, or you can obtain your visa at the border on arrival, aptly named "visa on arrival". This visa will be valid for 30 days and the cost depends on your nationality (from $30-$40 US). One passport-sized photograph is also required for this Visa (you can photocopy the one in your passport). It is also possible to extend your "visa on arrival" for another 30 days at a cost of about $ 2 US per day. Otherwise you will be charged $10 US per day by border authorities when you leave the country for not obtaining an extension on the 30 day visa, if you stay longer than planned. Citizens of Vietnam, Malaysia, Thailand and Cambodia can travel visa-free in Laos for 30 days. Personalized Services â&#x20AC;˘ Private Holidays â&#x20AC;˘ Tailor-Made Tours

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IMMUNIZATIONS Immunizations Before travelling to Laos it is important to ensure that you have adequate protection against disease. About two months before departure you should consult with your tropical medicines doctor who will advise you as to the type of vaccinations that you will need. These will vary depending on the regions that you plan on visiting. Please keep in mind that there is a malaria risk in very rural parts of Laos. Consult your tropical medicines doctor for the latest information. In general, most visitors to Laos will require the following vaccinations:  Hepatitis A and B  Tetanus  Typhoid  Polio  Diphtheria

SUGGESTED PACKING LIST You will be able to store any extra luggage or clothing not needed for your excursions in the hotel storage or our office. Most of your toiletry requirements are available in Laos (e.g. tooth paste, soap, shampoo, sanitary towels). Tampons are less widely available so remember to pack them at home. If you wear contact lenses make sure to bring enough cleaning fluids as this is also difficult to find. Light thin layers of cotton clothing are the best. Long-sleeved shirts and pants are a good idea for a number of reasons:  They provide good protection against mosquito bites They keep you warm during chilly November to February evenings  They are necessary for temple and countryside village visits where the shoulders and legs should be

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covered to below the knee (see more in the culture section) Depending on the season, your activities, and the region you will be visiting e.g. mountainous areas, it may be advisable for you to bring a jacket or fleece with you. MONEY The Lao kip is the official currency of Laos. US dollars are also widely accepted in bigger cities, particularly in restaurants. It's a good idea to arrive in Laos with some US dollars as the Lao kip cannot be exchanged outside Laos and as such you will not be able to buy any currency in advance of your arrival. Please note that torn and old US dollar notes are not generally accepted in Laos! In areas located near the Thai border the Thai currency Baht is also accepted. Travelers' checks (in US dollar or Euro) can be changed at a few banks, and is quite costly. Credit cards (Visa, MasterCard and Amex) are accepted in major hotels, and in a very limited number of upscale shopping areas.

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Some upscale hotels may also cash your travelers checks. Please note that there is usually a levy of 4 % charged on credit card purchases by the retailer. In Vientiane and Luang Prabang you'll find several ATM machines which dispense Lao kip only (at about 700,000 kip each time). Heading into the countryside it is recommended that you carry kip with you as banks are not always available and dollars are not always accepted in these outlying regions. At the time of printing the most common (though not fixed) rates of exchange are: 1 Euro: 11,019 Lao kip, 1 USD: 8,550 Lao kip. Carry your money in a way that you will feel most comfortable with e.g. money belt, wallet etc. You may want to carry a combination of travelers' checks, credit/debit cards, cash or all three. It's always a good precaution to split your money about your person and/or wallet. Make sure to keep some cash in small denominations for last minute purchases, as well as airport taxes (see below). Most hotels offer a safe deposit

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for your valuables if you so wish. TRIP BUDGETING Allow $5- $15 per meal for additional meals not included in the trip price. You may also want to have some cash for shopping in the local markets. Arriving in Laos We will arrange your transfer to and from Vientiane Wattay airport or Luang Prabang Airport, unless otherwise specified. Airport departure tax is included in the price. LAOS CLIMATE Laos has a tropical monsoon climate with two distinct seasons, May to October is the rainy season and November to April is the dry season. It gets hottest in March and April when temperatures can reach as high as 38C/100F. The lowest temperature, usually in December is around 15C/59F. The average temperature is between 25C/77F and 30C/84F.

CUISINE Lao food is very similar to Thai and offers a delightful cuisine to suit most tastes. Beer is the main alcoholic drink and is usually a light lager style. As a general rule travelers should avoid tap water, ice made from tap water, unpeeled fruit and vegetables, uncooked food, shellfish and street vendor offerings. Traveler's diarrhea is common and easily treated, choose a remedy that works best for you (Imodium, Pepto-Bismol, etc...); antibiotic solutions are also available for intestinal ills. National staple foods are sticky rice (khao niauw), laap (a meal of minced meat or fish with lime juice, garlic, onions, mint leaves and chilies) or tam maak hung (a spicy salad made of green papaya). Vegetarian food is widely available, in no small part, due to the strong Buddhist influence there. DRINKING WATER Bottled water can be purchased almost everywhere, at local convenience stores, hotels..

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LUANG PRABANG

uang Prabang is regarded by many as the most attractive city (or town would be more accurate description) in Asia, if not the world. The former royal capital has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage site due to its combination of Buddhist Temples, French architecture and historic Laotian buildings, set among the green hills. The main road, Xiang Thong, of Luang Prabang is a wonderful patchwork of traditional Lao wooden houses and hints of European architecture - reminders of when Laos was part of the French colony of Indochine. Golden-roofed wats (temples), decorated with mosaics and murals of the life of Buddha sit under the gaze of wrap-around balconies and 19th century shuttered windows.

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As a visitor you cannot help but be amazed by the tidiness and cleanliness of perhaps the most charming city in all of southeast Asia. With UNESCO so closely involved and a large, highly responsible, group of local business owners, the pressures of mass tourism development have been held at bay, but for how much longer remains to be seen. So visit NOW while it is still not a "tourist trap".

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VIENTIANE

With a troubled recent history, Laos has only recently opened its gates to the outside world and is one of the most untouched countries in Asia. Vientiane, resting on the banks of the Mekong River, is the laid back capital of Laos. It is one of the smallest capitals in the world, with a mixture of ornate temples, faded colonial French architecture, markets and small cafes, all lying on the banks of the sweeping Mekong.

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Compared to the hectic, bustling capitals in other Southeast Asia countries, Vientiane's deliciously relaxing atmosphere makes it feel like the small town it is. After you've done the rounds of the temples, the next best thing to do is wander down to one of the riverside beer gardens, kick back with a cold Beerlao - the Lao national beer, (and one of their main exports to surrounding countries) and watch the sun set over the Mekong. But please note: a long stretch of the Mekong river bank is presently under construction as we go to print, because the authorities are building a flood management levee system and a riverside park. This project is the result of a generous grant from the government of South Korea.

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FEATURE TRIPS This section features some of our best-selling tours over Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos. These tour programs are built and introduced based on our client's most favorite destinations, most common time frame for a standard holiday, best selected hotels and restaurants, various activities to spice up your holiday. However the best is yet to come! There are plenty of other tour options, destinations of attractions, hidden paradises that need to be discovered! Just contact us, and our team at Indochina Pioneer will be tailoring a perfect trip of a life time for you!

Tour No.1

INDOCHINA PAST & PRESENT

Tour No.5 VIETNAM’S WORLD HERITAGE SITES

Tour No.2

PHU QUOC ISLAND ESCAPE

Tour No.6

MOUNTAINS TO THE SEA

Tour No.3

Tour No.7

HALONG BAY TO ANGKOR WAT

LAOS NORTHERN HIGHLIGHTS

Tour No.4

VIETNAM BEACH VACATION

Tour No.8 CAMBODIA SPECIAL

SO WHAT OUR TOURS ARE LIKE? YOUR HOLIDAY BY INDOCHINA PIONEER MEANS THAT THE TOUR YOU TAKE IS TAILORED EXCLUSIVELY FOR YOU AND YOUR OWN PRIVATE PARTY, THE PEOPLE YOU CHOOSE TO TRAVEL WITH, THUS ALLOWING THE ITINERARY TO BE CUSTOM DESIGNED TO YOUR SPECIFIC REQUIREMENTS. SOUNDS GREAT DOESN'T IT, BUT IS IT AFFORDABLE? Why not? Indochina Pioneer with our know-how tailor makes your trip with the most reasonable services, best accommodation options, and hand-picked activities. We offer thorough guidance allowing you to discover the best of each destination you go to. Also, because we are a locally owned and operated business we can negotiate better prices on your behalf! You will have complete control and freedom of choice from the start of your tour planning with us. You will feel comfortable and secure during your tours, which is particularly important when you are traveling with children, seniors, or people needing special attention. ONE-ON-ONE TRAVEL CONSULTANCY: Once you make your 1st inquiry with us, you will be designated an Indochina Pioneer travel consultant to work personally with you until a perfect travel plan is tailored for you and your party. The consultant will go into every minor detail with you, ensuring you have the best choice of hotel rooms, must see sights, must eat cuisine etc., making sure it is suited to your budget. More than that, your travel consultant will follow up with you throughout your tour with Indochina Pioneer, making sure everything is to your satisfaction. They will also contact you upon your return home to see that you are home safe and sound with lots of wonderful memories of our Country!

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PERSONAL SUPPORT ON THE GROUND: On arrival and at each new destination of your tour you will be met at the airport, station or quay by an Indochina Pioneer representative who will accompany you to your hotel, help you check-in and discuss the itinerary for your stay. You will also be given contact numbers for all the relevant Indochina Pioneer representatives, ensuring fast professional help with any concerns or questions you may have at any time during your stay here. Also, your tour guide and driver will go above and beyond to help you with any request you may have during a tour. You will find them to be more than just professional guides or drivers, you'll find them to be as

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OUR PRIVATE TOURS BENEFIT from the following features: helpful as friends. We know you will remember them all, long after you have returned home! ITINERARY FLEXIBILITY: If required, the itineraries for any of our private tours can be adjusted at the planning stage to suit your particular interests and preferences. Changes can even be made when you are here on tour, such as skipping an activity or adding a new site that you want to visit. For all road journeys you will have your own private transport and driver, offering you the flexibility to stop off along the way if you see something of interest, to take photographs, or for a short break. Times can also be adjusted, within reason, allowing you to start a road journey or sightseeing tour when you choose. Unfortunately, it is unavoidable that adding, cancelling or changing of the itinerary may require additional fees, and we will advise you of such before making any changes to your tour. PRIVATE GUIDES: All sightseeing tours are accompanied by your own private English-speaking guide or other languages upon requests. This means that you can ask as many questions as you like, and take sightseeing trips at your own pace. Having your own guide brings a place to life in a way that guidebooks never can, it also allows you to learn more about the real lives and cultures of the local people from our indigenous educated guides! YOUR HAND-PICKED ACCOMMODATION: From the very first itinerary by Indochina Pioneer, with our suggestions of the best value hotels, based on your budget, tour itinerary, location, your own personal/group requirements. You can pick your own preferred hotels from our suggestions or request us to book your own choice of hotels. This allows you to enjoy any choice of hotel and control your budget for your trip!

INVITE YOUR FAMILY AND FRIENDS TO SAVE MORE PER PERSON: Based on a same tour plan, our per-person prices are quoted differently, for 1 person, 2-5 people, 6-9 people, and 10 plus people traveling together. The more people on your tour, the lower your price will be. With this in mind why not invite as many friends and family as you can, then you can save and party at the same time! You will all have great memories of Vietnam and Indochina to share for many years to come! WE ONLY DISCOUNT THE PRICE, NEVER THE QUALITY: We at Indochina Pioneer characterise our travel style by optimizing your experience throughout the whole process, from planning the trip to completing the trip. Each one of our professional travel experts works closely and efficiently with you thereby lowering operational costs and passing the benefits on to you! We want you to enjoy the rewards of independent travel together with organized tours with educated professional tour guides.

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Tour No.1 HANOI

MAI CHAU

HALONG

INDOCHINA PAST & PRESENT HUE

HOI AN

ABOUT THIS TRIP: THIS 21 DAY TOUR IS AN INCREDIBLE HOLIDAY ADVENTURE TO ALL MUSTSEE SITES IN THE LOST KINGDOMS OF VIETNAM, CAMBODIA AND LAOS. THESE THREE COUNTRIES OFFER 6 CITIES OF WORLD HERITAGE SITES, HILL TRIBE INTERACTIONS, BEACH BREAK, WATERWAY EXPERIENCE ALONG THE MIGHTY MEKONG RIVER, GREAT MIX OF ACTIVITIES AND SHOPPING PARADISES! NO MATTER WHAT LEVEL OF ACCOMMODATION YOU CHOOSE, THE COMFORT OF STAY, CENTRAL LOCATION AND BEST VALUE PRICES ARE HONESTLY COMMITTED. CERTAINLY, THIS TRIP CAN BE WELL TAILOR-MADE TO FIT BEST YOUR TRAVEL PLAN. ONCE YOU CONTACT US FOR THIS TRIP, YOU WILL BE PERSONALLY ASSISTED UNTIL YOUR DREAM HOLIDAY IS COMPLETED WITH AN ABSOLUTE SATISFACTION!

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SAIGON

CAN THO

CHAU DOC

PHNOM PENH

SIEM REAP

LUANG PRABANG

DAY 1 ARRIVAL DAY Our tour guide will meet you at the Hanoi Airport and escort you to your hotel in downtown Hanoi. The rest of the day is at leisure, allowing you to relax or explore the city. Welcome dinner in a Vietnamese restaurant. Overnight in Hanoi Dinner DAY 2 HANOI CITY TOUR Today you will enjoy a full day tour of Hanoi, Vietnam's charming capital. You will see Ho Chi Minh's Mausoleum and his private home, a wooden stilt-house surrounded by lush gardens. You will also visit the One Pillar Pagoda in the same complex, an important symbol for Hanoians. The tour continues at the museum of Ethnology where we will see Vietnam's diverse culture through the Museum's display of articles and dress used in daily life. After lunch at a local restaurant we will visit the Temple of Literature, considered the first National University of Vietnam. Next, we visit Hoa Lo prison. Then we enjoy a cyclo (rickshaw) tour through Hanoi's Old Quarter. This bustling area of narrow streets and alley ways houses thousands of small family businesses and shops Traveling by cyclo is the way to get a real feeling for the town as well as some great photographs. In the evening we enjoy a performance of the traditional water puppet show, a typical northern Vietnam art form. Overnight in Hanoi Lunch Breakfast DAY 3 HANOI – MAI CHAU – HOME STAY From Hanoi we take a four hour scenic drive to Mai Chau through a spectacular mountain range. This is an authentic hill tribe region and a fantastic base for treks and home stay adventures. After lunch, we will explore the surrounding villages on foot, meeting local people and learning about their lives raising crops and livestock. Overnight with a local family Overnight in Hanoi Breakfast

Lunch

Dinner

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DAY 4 MAI CHAU – HANOI After breakfast we will take a walking tour of the town and explore the local market. We can also visit the Quan Y (Military Clinic) cave . We drive back to Hanoi, stopping to visit another village where the Muong minority lives. We will stop for lunch in Hoa Binh. Overnight in Hanoi Dinner Breakfast DAY 5 HANOI – HALONG BAY – BAI THO JUNK This morning, a four hour journey through the rich farmlands of the Red River Delta brings us to legendary Halong Bay. On arrival, we board our boat where we enjoy a seafood lunch. The afternoon is spent cruising among hundreds of islets discovering unspoiled pockets of the Bay. We will also visit “Sung Sot” Cave, one of the most imposing grottos of the area. Tonight we enjoy dinner and a night on board ship. Overnight on Junk Boat Lunch Breakfast Dinner DAY 6 HALONG - HANOI – FLIGHT TO HUE In the morning we rise to enjoy the tranquil beauty of the bay and perhaps an early morning swim, followed by breakfast. Our cruise around the bay continues. At around midday we will return to the main harbor before transferring to our private vehicle for the four hour journey to the Saigon Airport. From there we fly to Hue. Overnight in Hue. Breakfast Lunch DAY 7 HUE CITY TOUR Our day starts with a trip to the ancient walled Citadel where we'll see the former Imperial Palace, closely modeled on the Forbidden City in Beijing. Significant damage was caused by French aerial bombing and the Tet Offensive of 1968, h However, much of the city is now being restored thanks to UNESCO funding. Following our tour of the Emperor's residence we travel to the surrounding countryside to see the final resting place of the Emperors, visiting one of Vietnam's most impressive Royal Tombs. In late afternoon, we cruise the Perfume River and visit Thien Mu Pagoda. Overnight in Hue Breakfast Lunch

DAY 8 HUE – HOI AN - THE SHOPPING MECCA This morning we drive south to the riverside town of Hoi An. Our five-hour trip, hugging the coastline along the South China Sea, provides breathtaking views that grow ever more spectacular as we wind our way up Hai Van Pass (“Pass of the Clouds”). The rest of the day in this old merchant town is free for further exploration. Overnight in Hoi An Breakfast DAY 9 HOI AN From the sixteenth to eighteenth century, Hoi An was a thriving international commercial port. Today it is a quaint riverside town popular with tourists for its eclectic architecture, tailor shops, and cafes. We enjoy a half-day walking tour through the narrow winding streets of the Ancient Quarter visiting Chua Ong Pagoda, Assembly Hall, the 200-year-old Tam Ky house, and the Japanese Covered Bridge. After lunch we take a short boat trip to a nearby island to visit the village of Thanh Ha, where to see hand crafted ceramics and a boat building business. Overnight in Hoi An Breakfast DAY 10 HOI AN Your day is at leisure to explore the town or just relax. Overnight in Hoi An Breakfast DAY 11 HOI AN - DA NANG AIRPORT – FLIGHT TO SAIGON – HALF DAY CITY In the morning we drive to Da Nang airport for a short flight to Saigon. In the afternoon, we visit the Reunification Palace. The war officially ended hereon April 30th 1975 when tank 843 of the North Vietnamese Army crashed through the gates of the home of the President of the Republic of Vietnam. Then we visit the War Remnants Museum, a poignant display of the futility of war. We also stop at the Notre Dame Cathedral and Old Post Office. The post office, built between 1877 and 1883, is an excellent example of classic French colonial architecture. Overnight in Saigon Breakfast Lunch

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DAY 12 SAIGON – CAI BE – CAN THO We leave Saigon and drive through the Mekong Delta to Cai Be town. Here we board our river boat for a cruise on the waterways of the mighty Mekong. We arrive at the lush orchards of Vinh Long where lunch awaits us at a family owned orchard. After lunch we drive to the city of Can Tho, considered the heart of the Mekong Delta. Overnight in Can Tho Breakfast Lunch DAY 13 CAN THO – CHAU DOC After breakfast, we board our private boat to visit Cai Rang floating market. There, hundreds of boats loaded with fruit, vegetable and fish jostle for trade, advertising their wares by crying out across the waters. You can even try crossing one of the fragile monkey bridges along the canals. Then we leave Can Tho for Chau Doc, stopping en route for lunch at a local restaurant. Our drive continues until we reach Chau Doc. Overnight in Chau Doc. Breakfast

Lunch

DAY 14 CHAU DOC – SPEEDBOAT TO PHNOM PENH After an early breakfast, we take a speedboat from Chau Doc and cross the border into Cambodia, arriving in central Phnom Penh. In the afternoon we visit the National Museum of Khmer art, featuring sculptures from different period of Cambodia history. We also visit the Royal Palace built in 1866 by King Norodom.

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The Silver Pagoda is named for its floor made of 5,000 silver tiles and located within the Royal Palace compound. The remainder of the day is at leisure. Overnight in Phnom Penh. Breakfast Lunch DAY 15 PHNOM PENH – FLIGHT TO SIEM REAP This morning, we take a short flight to Siem Reap. After checking in to the hotel you'll have free time to rest and relax. In the afternoon we'll visit the Roluos Temple Complex. The complex displays the remains of the first major capital of the Khmer empire and contains several significant monuments including Bakong, Preah Ko and Lolei. The evening is yours to enjoy at leisure. Overnight in Siem Riep Breakfast DAY 16 ANGKOR WAT Today, we tour Angkor Thom City. We'll start at the South Gate and explore the centerpiece of the ancient city, The Bayon. The Bayon has fifty four towers decorated with more than two hundred enigmatic smiling faces. The tour also includes the Royal Enclosure, Phimeanakas, the Terrace of Elephants and Terrace of Leper Kings, as well as The Ta Prohm Temple. After lunch we explore Angkor Wat, probably the most famous and best-preserved of the temples in the complex. After spending the afternoon here, we will go to Pre Rup to see the sunset.

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shaped like the fruit for which it is named. We also visit the Wat Aham where we will find the alter of Luang Prabang and finish with a visit to Wat that where the ashes of King Sisavang Vong are kept. Overnight in Luang Prabang Breakfast DAY 19 PAKOU CAVES Traveling the Mekong on a long-tailed boat we visit the mysterious Pak Ou Caves in the side of a lime stone cliff opposite the mouth of the Mekong and Nam Ou rivers. We visit Ban Xanghai, well-known for its Laotian traditional rice. Lunch is in a local restaurant on the bank of the Mekong. Following our return to Luang Prabang we visit Ban Xangkhong, a village known for its wood paper making and naturally dyed silk weavings. Overnight in Luang Prabang Lunch Breakfast DAY 20 KUANG SI WATERFALL In the morning we drive 30 kilometres south to the Kuangsi Waterfall. En route, we visit Na Oune, a small village where the Hmong people live, and Tha Pane village where the Khmu people live. For lunch, we will picnic near the Kuangsi waterfall. After returning to the hotel, the rest of the day is yours to enjoy, exploring or relaxing. Overnight in Luang Prabang. Lunch Breakfast DAY 21 LUANG PRABANG - DEPARTURE Pick up from your hotel to the airport for your departure flight. End of services.

Breakfast

TOUR COST:

Overnight in Siem Riep of Leper Kings, as well as The Ta Prohm Temple. After lunch we explore Angkor Wat, probably the most famous and best-preserved of the temples in the complex. After spending the afternoon here, we will go to Pre Rup to see the sunset. Overnight in Siem Riep Lunch Breakfast DAY 17 ANGKOR WAT – TONLE SAP LAKE An early start will let us see the sun rise over Angkor Wat Temple. After breakfast, we head to the exquisite Banteay Srey (“Citadel of the women”). The temple displays fine examples of classical Khmer art. You will enjoy free time here until your transfer to the Tonle Sap for a boat trip on the lake. Overnight in Siem Reap Breakfast DAY 18 SIEM REAP – FLIGHT TO LUANG PRABANG In the morning we fly to Luang Prabang, the ancient first capital of Lane Xang kingdom. It is the centre of religious life in Laos and a World Heritage City. We tour the sacred city of temples by visiting the National Museum and the former Royal Palace. The latter houses a collection of valuables including the famous Prabang Buddha statue and gifts from foreign dignitaries. The tour continues to the Wat Visoun, entirely rebuilt in 1887 by the invading Black Flags from southern China. In the courtyard of Wat Visoun stands the Watermelon Stupa

This tour is private and can be well tailor-made to suite your travel needs. As a result the price is quoted in US dollars and per person basis. The final price will be privately quoted upon your own number of participants, time of travel, grade of hotel rooms and other detailed services. Please contact us at sales@indochinapioneer and then our travel consultant will customize the best value holiday for you. Thank you!

TOUR INCLUDES: Accommodation based on twin shared room at selected hotels with daily breakfast Check-in time at all hotels is 14:00 and check-out time at all hotels is 12.00 Early check-in and late check-out is subject to availability with surcharge. Meals, drinks and other those mentioned in the itinerary (B= Breakfast, L= Lunch, D= Dinner) National Escort for group of ten or above. Regional tour guide(s) applied for group under 10. Tours and transfers as mentioned by private air-conditioned vehicle Sightseeing fees and permits during guided time Domestic flights from Hanoi – Hue, Da Nang- Saigon TOUR EXCLUDES: Travel Insurance (Compulsory) International flight tickets Visas and airport departure tax Meals, Drinks and other those NOT mentioned in the itinerary Laundry, telephone calls and expenditure of a personal nature Tips and gratuities

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Tour No.2

PHU QUOC ISLAND ESCAPE SAIGON

PHU QUOC

ABOUT THIS TRIP: ONCE A HORRIBLE PRISON WITH MOST CRUEL CRIME DURING THE INDOCHINA WAR (VIETNAMESE – F R E N C H ) A N D V I E T N A M WA R (VIETNAMESE – AMERICAN), PHU QUOC NOWADAYS HAS RECOVERED TO BE A PARADISE FOR THOSE WHO SEEK FOR A TURQUOISE VACATION, OR FOR HONEYMOONERS, OR THOSE WHO WANT TO ESCAPE FOR A WHILE. INTERNATIONAL STANDARD BEACH RESORTS, NICE FRIENDLY LOCAL HOTELS, EXCEPTIONAL SEAFOOD AND EXTREMELY WARM HEARTED PEOPLE WILL MAKE YOUR STAY ON THIS PEARLY ISLAND A SWEET MEMORY OF A LIFE TIME.

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Page 47 INDOCHINA PIONEER

Personalized Services • Private Holidays • Tailor-Made Tours

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DAY 1 ARRIVAL SAIGON Our tour guide will meet you at the Saigon airport and escort you to your hotel in downtown Saigon. The remainder of your day is at leisure to rest up of explore the city. Overnight in Saigon Lunch DAY 2 SAIGON – FLIGHT TO PHU QUOC ISLAND In the morning we transfer to Tan Son Nhat International Airport for the fifty minute flight to Phu Quoc. After checking in to our exotic resort, the rest of the day is at leisure, perhaps relaxing at the stunning beach. Phu Quoc Island is an undiscovered paradise in the warm turquoise waters of the Gulf of Thailand, about 50 km from the Vietnamese mainland. In Phu Quoc you'll find beautiful beaches, an untouched natural environment, a relaxed atmosphere, friendly locals and fantastic scuba diving. Overnight in Phu Quoc Breakfast DAY 3 PHU QUOC Today is a free day. You can visit the local market, take a scuba diving class, bicycle around the island or just relax at the hotel beach. Overnight in Phu Quoc Breakfast DAY 4 PHU QUOC Another free day. You may want to enjoy some more beach time, or perhaps play a game of water polo. Tonight you'll be served a memorable dinner before bidding farewell to this lovely island. Overnight in Phu Quoc Breakfast Dinner DAY 5 PHU QUOC – FLIGHT BACK TO SAIGON Your morning is free until your transfer to the airport for the flight back to Saigon. Breakfast

Accommodation based on twin shared room at selected hotels with daily breakfast Check-in time at all hotels is 14:00 and check-out time at all hotels is 12.00. Early check-in and late check-out is subject to availability with surcharge. Meals, drinks and other those mentioned in the itinerary (B= Breakfast, L= Lunch, D= Dinner). Profestional English Speaking tour guide or other languages upon request. Tours and transfers as mentioned by private air-conditioned vehicle. Sightseeing fees and permits during guided time. Domestic flights from Saigon – Phu Quoc (round trip).

Travel Insurance (Compulsory). International flight tickets. Visas and airport departure tax. Meals, drinks and other those mentioned in the itinerary. Laundry, telephone calls and expenditure of a personal nature. Tips and gratuities.

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Tour No.3

HALONG BAY TO ANGKOR WAT

ABOUT THIS TRIP: THIS 21 DAY TOUR IS AN INCREDIBLE H O L I D AY A D V E N T U R E TO A L L M U S T- S E E S I T E S I N T H E L O S T KINGDOMS OF VIETNAM, CAMBODIA AND LAOS. THESE THREE COUNTRIES OFFER 6 CITIES OF WORLD HERITAGE SITES, HILL TRIBE INTERACTIONS, BEACH BREAK, WATERWAY EXPERIENCE ALONG THE MIGHTY MEKONG RIVER, GREAT MIX OF ACTIVITIES AND SHOPPING PARADISES! NO M AT T E R W H AT L E V E L O F ACCOMMODATION YOU CHOOSE, THE COMFORT OF STAY, CENTRAL LOCATION AND BEST VALUE PRICES ARE HONESTLY COMMITTED. CERTAINLY, THIS TRIP CAN BE WELL TAILOR-MADE TO FIT BEST YOUR TRAVEL PLAN. ONCE YOU CONTACT US FOR THIS TRIP, YOU WILL BE PERSONALLY ASSISTED UNTIL YOUR DREAM HOLIDAY IS COMPLETED WITH AN ABSOLUTE SATISFACTION!

Indochina Pioneer

DAY 1 ARRIVAL DAY Our tour guide will meet you at the Hanoi Airport and escort you to your hotel in downtown Hanoi. The rest of the day is at leisure, allowing you to relax or explore the city. Welcome dinner in a Vietnamese restaurant. Overnight in Hanoi Dinner DAY 2 HANOI CITY TOUR Today you will enjoy a full day tour of Hanoi, Vietnam's charming capital. You will see Ho Chi Minh's Mausoleum and his private home, a wooden stilt-house surrounded by lush gardens. You will also visit the One Pillar Pagoda in the same complex, an important symbol for Hanoians. The tour continues at the museum of Ethnology where we will see Vietnam's diverse culture through the Museum's display of articles and dress used in daily life. After lunch at a local restaurant we will visit the Temple of Literature (Confucius Temple), considered the first National University of Vietnam. Next, we visit Hoa Lo prison (known as the “Hanoi Hilton” during the American war). Then we enjoy a cyclo (rickshaw) tour through Hanoi's Old Quarter. This bustling area of narrow streets and alley ways houses thousands of small family businesses and shops traveling by cyclo is the way to get a real feeling for the town as well as some great photographs. In the evening we enjoy a performance of the traditional water puppet show, a typical northern Vietnam art form. Overnight in Hanoi Lunch Breakfast DAY 3 HANOI – HALONG BAY This morning, a four hour journey through the rich farmlands of the Red River Delta brings us to legendary Halong Bay. On arrival, we board our boat where we enjoy a seafood lunch. The afternoon is spent cruising among hundreds of islets discovering unspoiled pockets of the Bay. We will also visit “Sung Sot” Cave, one of the most imposing grottos of the area. Tonight we enjoy dinner and a night on board ship. Overnight on boat cruise Lunch Breakfast Dinner DAY 4 HALONG - HANOI – FLIGHT TO HUE In the morning we rise to enjoy the tranquil beauty of the bay and perhaps an early morning swim, followed by breakfast. Our cruise around the bay continues. At around midday we will return to the main harbor before transferring to our private vehicle for the four hour journey to the Saigon Airport. From there we fly to Hue. Overnight in Hue. Lunch Breakfast

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HA NOI

HA LONG

HUE

HOI AN

DAY 5 HUE CITY TOUR Our day starts with a trip to the ancient walled Citadel where we'll see the former Imperial Palace, closely modeled on the Forbidden City in Beijing. Significant damage was caused by French aerial bombing and the Tet Offensive of 1968, however, much of the city is now being restored thanks to UNESCO funding. Next, we cruise the Perfume River and visit Thien Mu Pagoda. From here we travel to the surrounding countryside to see the final resting place of the Emperors, visiting one of Vietnam's most impressive Royal Tombs. We head back to town for lunch. In the afternoon we drive south to the riverside town of Hoian. Our fivehour trip, hugging the coastline along the South China Sea, provides breathtaking views that grow ever more spectacular as we wind our way up Hai Van Pass (“Pass of the Clouds”). The rest of the day in this old merchant town is free for further exploration. Overnight in Hoian Breakfast

Lunch

DAY 6 HOI AN From the sixteenth to eighteenth century, Hoi An was a thriving international commercial port. Today it is a quaint riverside town popular with tourists for its eclectic architecture, tailor shops, and cafes. We enjoy a short walking tour through the narrow winding streets of the Ancient Quarter visiting Chua Ong Pagoda, Assembly Hall, the 200-year-old Tam Ky house, and the Japanese Covered Bridge. After lunch, we take a short boat trip to a nearby island to visit the village of Thanh Ha, where to see hand crafted ceramics and a boat building business. Overnight in Hoi An Breakfast

Lunch

DAY 7 HOI AN Your day is at leisure to explore the town or just relax Overnight in Hoi An. Breakfast

SAI GON

MEKONG

SIEM REAP

DAY 8 HOI AN/ DA NANG – FLIGHT TO SAIGON In the morning we drive to Da Nang airport for a short flight to Saigon. In the afternoon, we visit the Reunification Palace. The war officially ended here on April 30th 1975 when tank 843 of the North Vietnamese Army crashed through the gates of the home of the President of the Republic of Vietnam. Then we visit the War Remnants Museum, a poignant display of the futility of war. We also stop at the Notre Dame Cathedral and Old Post Office. The post office, built between 1877 and 1883, is an excellent example of classic French colonial architecture. Overnight in Saigon Breakfast DAY 9 SAIGON – CU CHI TUNNELS Today we will travel out of the city to the Cu Chi Tunnels. This vast network of tunnels, stretching over 150 kilometers, was built by the Viet Cong in the battles for the south. The tunnels are a sobering insight into the dedication of the Viet Cong who lived almost entirely underground in the narrow and claustrophobic tunnels. Upon arrival, we have a chance to watch a brief video that will introduce you to the Cu Chi tunnels, followed by a walk through the reserve. Nearby is a chilling demonstration of the traps and weapons used against the American GIs. The Cu Chi tunnels have been made wider and cleaner for western visitors, however they can still be dark and claustrophobic inside so please keep in mind if you do not like enclosed spaces. We return to Saigon for lunch and the remainder of the day is at leisure. Breakfast

Lunch

DAY 10 SAIGON – CAI BE We take over 2 hour drive to Cai Be - Phu An where we will board the Cai Be Princess to visit Cai Be colorful floating market with exciting world of people buying and selling their farming/ orchard produce. After that we visit some cottage industries and learn how rice paper, coconut candy, rice popcorn and fish sauce are made. The trip continues along the Mekong canals to Dong Hoa Hiep Island

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Overnight in Saigon located between Vinh Long and Cai Be. During this 40 minutes cruise we will discover beautiful landscapes along the river and observe the typical Mekong delta rural life. Stops on the way can be made upon request for particular visits or photos opportunities. These evergreen islands among the Mekong River still remain unknown to many people. We have lunch at Le Longanier restaurant at La Residence de Phu An resort, an Indochine style resort. After a short walk along a narrow canal, the excursion will end at around 3.30pm where the vehicle will await us for our transfer back to hotel. Breakfast Lunch DAY 11 SAIGON – FLIGHT TO SIEM REAP This morning, we take a short flight to Siem Reap. After checking in to the hotel you'll have free time to rest and relax. In the afternoon we'll visit the Roluos Temple Complex. The complex displays the remains of the first major capital of the Khmer empire and contains several significant monuments including Bakong, Preah Ko and Lolei. The evening is yours to enjoy at leisure. Overnight in Siem Riep Breakfast DAY 12 ANGKOR WAT Today, we tour Angkor Thom City. We'll start at the South Gate and explore the centerpiece of the ancient city, The Bayon. The Bayon has fifty four towers decorated with more than two hundred enigmatic smiling faces. The tour also includes the Royal Enclosure, Phimeanakas, the Terrace of Elephants and Terrace of Leper Kings, as well as The Ta Prohm Temple. After lunch we explore Angkor Wat, probably the most famous and bestpreserved of the temples in the complex. After spending the afternoon here, we will go to Pre Rup to see the sunset. Overnight in Siem Riep Lunch Breakfast DAY 13 ANGKOR WAT – TONLE SAP LAKE An early start will let us see the sun rise over Angkor Wat Temple. After breakfast, we head to the exquisite Banteay Srey (“Citadel of the women”). The temple displays fine examples of classical Khmer art. You will enjoy free time here until your transfer to the Tonle Sap for a boat trip on the lake. Overnight in Siem Reap Breakfast DAY 14 SIEM REAP – DEPARTURE Free time until departure from Siem Reap for flight home. End of our service. Thank You!!

Travel Insurance (Compulsory). Other flight tickets. Visas and airport departure tax. Meals, drinks and other those mentioned in the itinerary. Laundry, telephone calls and expenditure of a personal nature. Service charge and government tax. Tips and gratuities.

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Tour No.4

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VIETNAM BEACH VACATION

Personalized Services • Private Holidays • Tailor-Made Tours

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HANOI

ABOUT THIS TRIP: BEACH HOPPERS AND SHOPPERS CAN THIS VIETNAM BEACH VACATION AN IDEAL PACKAGE FOR YOUR NEXT HOLIDAY TO VIETNAM. THE IMPRESSIVE HALONG BAY CRUISE, THE BEACH AND SHOPPING TOWN OF HOI AN, THE ENCHANTING BEACH OF MUI NE WITH A GLIMPSE OF THE MOST IMPORTANT CITIES HA NOI AND HO CHI MINH MAKE IT ALL YOU NEED FOR YOUR HOLIDAYS. B E A U T I F U L B E A C H R E S O RT S , STUNNING BOAT CRUISES AT TOPNOTCH SERVICE ARE AWAITING YOU WITH INDOCHINA PIONEER’S BEST PRICE AND PERSONAL SERVICES!

HALONG

HOI AN

SAIGON

MUI NE

ARRIVE IN HANOI Upon arrival at Hanoi airport, you will be welcomed by your Indochina Pioneer tour guide and transferred to your centrally located hotel. The remainder of the day is free to explore this charming and historic city. Overnight in Hanoi. DAY 2 HANOI CITY TOUR We commence this morning's city tour with a drive to visit Ho Chi Minh's complex, including the Mausoleum of the founder of the Democratic Republic of Vietnam. His former presidential Palace and the historical wooden stilt house in its cool, leafy surroundings are on view here. Also on this site is the historical One Pillar pagoda dating back to 11th century. Our tour will continue to the Temple of Literature, the site of Vietnam's oldest university and dedicated to one of the world's most famous scholars, Confucius. In the afternoon, we take a short drive to the very impressive Museum of Ethnology, among the finest of Vietnam's museums where we will observe many interesting and memorable exhibits, photographs and typical house designs inhabited by some of the 54 ethnic people in Vietnam. Feel the hustle and bustle of life in this amazing city as we take a one hour fascinating cyclo (rickshaw) tour of Hanoi's vibrant Old Quarter and Hoian Kiem Lake, before ending the day with a delightful evening water puppet performance. Overnight in Hanoi Breakfast

Lunch

DAY 3 HANOI - HALONG BAY Halong Bay is an area of great natural beauty, with sparkling waters studded with thousands of islets covered in rich green foliage, sheer cliffs and mystical caves. This morning we leave Hanoi and enjoy the scenery as we take the 3.5 hour trip to Halong City. On arrival, we board a traditional wooden junk boat for a relaxing and unforgettable cruise around the breathtaking and unique limestone mountain islands. A sumptuous local seafood lunch will be served by our boat staff as we cruise this spectacular bay. Included is a visit to one of the most stunning caves of Halong Bay. By sunset, enjoy a stop at Titop Beach, take a refreshing swim on this quiet beach or sunbathe on the sundeck. There is also an opportunity to take a short trek to a nearby summit for a panoramic view of the bay. Return to our boat to spend the night with a delicious on-board dinner. Overnight in Hanoi Breakfast

Lunch

Dinner

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DAY 4 HALONG – FLY TO DA NANG - HOIAN Wake up to see the sun rise over the spectacular horizon and reflect in the pristine waters of the bay. We relax and enjoy our breakfast while sailing around this natural wonder. Once our boat has returned us to the dock, we drive back to Hanoi airport for a short flight to Da Nang. Snacks are provided en route. On arrival at Da Nang, we are picked up and transferred to Hoian. For the remainder of the day, you are free to relax at our Hotel's swimming pool or beach. Overnight in Hoian Lunch Breakfast DAY 5 HOIAN This morning we drive to the Old town of Hoi An and take a half-day walking tour through the narrow winding cobbled streets of the Ancient Quarter visiting Chua Ong Pagoda, Chinese Assembly Halls, the 200 - year old Tan Ky ancestral house, and the Japanese Bridge. We also visit diverse and appealing local markets and tailor shops where a whole new wardrobe can be made up if you desire. Hoian is a wonderful place to buy your gifts and souvenirs. The rest of the day is free to chill out at the beach or enjoy wild shopping spree. Overnight in Hoian. Breakfast DAY 6 HOIAN FREE DAY

DAY 7 HOIAN – FLY TO SAIGON Take an early morning flight down to Ho Chi Minh City, still referred to by her colonial era name of Saigon. En route from the airport, visit the famous and astounding Cu Chi tunnels, an important part of Saigon's war history. Spend the afternoon exploring Dong Khoi and the nearby boutiques, cafés and restaurants. Overnight in Saigon Breakfast Lunch DAY 8 - 10 SAIGON – PHAN THIET – MUI NE We have a lazy morning with good breakfast then check out of our hotel room for a wonderful drive to Mui Ne beach town in Phan Thiet. We may make several photo stops en-route. Arrive to Mui Ne, check-into our hotel and enjoy our relaxing stay. During 3 days of stay here, you can make a few excursions to the Sand Dunes, fish-souce makers and other landscapes around on your own arrangement and budget. Overnight in Mui Ne Breakfast DAY 11 DEPARTURE Morning is free to relax. Refreshed from your amazing Vietnam Beach Holiday, return to Saigon at the end of your stay for your flight home. Breakfast

Free day to relax and explore the markets and cafes and the amazing atmosphere of this unique and delightful centre. Overnight in Hoian Breakfast

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TOUR COST: This tour is private and can be well tailor-made to suite your travel needs. As a result the price is quoted in US dollars and per person basis. The final price will be privately quoted upon your own number of participants, time of travel, grade of hotel rooms and other detailed services. Please contact us at sales@indochinapioneer and then our travel consultant will customize the best value holiday for you. Thank you! TOUR INCLUDES: Meals and other those mentioned in the itinerary (B= Breakfast, L= Lunch, D= Dinner) National Escort for group of ten or above. Regional tour guide(s) applied for group under 10. Tours and transfers as mentioned by private air-conditioned vehicle Sightseeing fees and permits during guided time Flight tickets: Hanoi - Da Nang - Saigon (economy class) Accommodation based on twin shared room at Quan Lan Resort. Check-in time at all hotels is 14:00 and check-out time at all hotels is 12.00 Early check-in and late check-out is subject to availability with surcharge. TOUR EXCLUDES: Travel Insurance (Compulsory) Visas and airport departure tax Meals, Drinks and other those NOT mentioned in the itinerary Laundry, telephone calls and expenditure of a personal nature Tips and gratuities

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Tour No.5 VIETNAM’S WORLD HERITAGE SITES HA NOI

ABOUT THIS TRIP: THE CONTEMPORARY SPIRIT OF A C O U N T RY I S B U I LT F R O M I T S HERITAGE! INDOCHINA PIONEER OFFERS THIS 12 DAY PACKAGE TOUR TO INTRODUCE MOST OF V I E T N A M E S E H E R I TA G E S O F NATURE AND CULTURE, WITH THEIR TA N G I B L E A N D I N TA N G I B L E VALUES. MOST AMAZING SITES – INCLUDING MAN-MADE AND N AT U R E - M A D E , B E S T K N O W N LOCAL CUISINE, MAJOR MUST SEE DESTINATIONS AND EXCEPTIONAL S E RV I C E S W I L L M A K E Y O U R H O L I D AY A H E R I TA G E O F YOURSELF! T H I S T R I P C A N B E F L E X I B LY CUSTOMIZED TO YOUR TIME OF T R AV E L , C H O I C E S O F TRANSPORTATIONS, LEVEL OF A C C O M M O D AT I O N S A N D CERTAINLY ON YOUR OWN BUDGET!

HA LONG

DONG HOI

HUE

HOI AN

SAI GON

DAY 1 ARRIVAL DAY Upon arrival at Hanoi's Noi Bai International Airport you will be met by your guide and transferred to the hotel (approx. 45 mins). Overnight in Hanoi DAY 2 HANOI CITY TOUR Embark on a full day tour of Vietnam's capital, famed for its tree-lined boulevards, French colonial architecture and a thousand years of history. Our first stop is at the Ho Chi Minh Complex which consists of his Mausoleum, the Presidential Palace and the One-pillar Pagoda. Ho Chi Minh's Mausoleum attracts literally thousands of Vietnamese every day and is seen as a pilgrimage site. Next we visit the Temple of Literature – site of Vietnam's first university and later a temple dedicated to Confucius. We then take lunch in one of Hanoi's local authentic restaurants. In the afternoon, we continue with the Museum of Ethnology where we learn more about Vietnam's amazing ethnic diversity comprising of 54 different groups. Later we watch a one hour traditional Water Puppet performance in a theatre near Hoan Kiem Lake, the city's focal point followed by a 'cyclo' tour of the Old Quarter. In times past each street had its own merchants' guild, specializing in a particular trade, such as silk, jewellery etc. Today the street names still reflect this although many of the products have long since disappeared. We return to our hotel in late afternoon. Overnight in Hanoi Lunch Breakfast DAY 3 HANOI – HALONG BAY After breakfast, we set off by bus to tranquil Halong Bay. A four-hour journey through the scenic Red River Delta provides numerous photo opportunities as well as the chance to meet the locals and discover just how much hard work goes in to maintaining the rice harvests. We stop at a road-side rice farm before arriving at Halong Bay around mid-day. Boarding the private junk boat we are then served a delicious seafood lunch while cruising through the limestone cliffs and floating villages. We also visit Sung Sot Cave before we find a quite place to anchor for the night. A Seafood dinner will be served by your attentive crew. Overnight on Boat Lunch Dinner Breakfast

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w w w. i n d o c h i n a p i o n e e r. c o m DAY 4 HANOI – DONG HOI In the morning, continue the cruise to Man's Head Island and Tortoise Island and visit Luon Cave by small sampan. After an early lunch, we return to the quay side and drive back to Hanoi. Free time in Hanoi until the transfer to the main train station for the overnight train to Dong Hoi (approx 13hrs). Overnight on A/C train Lunch Breakfast DAY 5 DONG HOI – PHONG NHA CAVE – THE WORLD HERITAGE SITE Arrive in Dong Hoi station and transfer to the hotel. After breakfast, drive to Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park to see the world's longest limestone cave and now a UNESCO World Heritage Listed site. We reach the cave by boat along the Son River and once inside explore the cave's fine sand beaches, spectacular stalagmites and stalactites. We return to the dock for lunch in a local restaurant and drive back to Dong Hoi where the remainder of the day is free to relax. Overnight in Dong Hoi Lunch Breakfast DAY 6 DONG HOI – HUE After breakfast we drive to Hue, another World Heritage recognized site and former capital of Imperial Vietnam from 1802 to 1945. En route we stop at the Hien Luong Bridge in the former DMZ (Demilitarized Zone) between north and south Vietnam before reunification. We arrive in Hue in the afternoon and board a dragon boat to cruise along the Perfume River to visit the Thien Mu Pagoda. Overnight in Hue Lunch Breakfast DAY 7 HUE Today we have a half day sightseeing tour of Hue's Imperial City including the Citadel and the Forbidden City followed by a short drive in to the surrounding countryside to see some of the Emperor's impressive tombs. On the way back to the city we stop at a traditional handicraft workshop to discover how incense sticks and conical hats are made. Overnight in Hue Breakfast DAY 8 HUE – HOIAN In the morning we leave Hue by road for Hoian. The scenic drive through rural central Vietnam takes approximately 4 hours. After lunch we have a guided walking tour of Hoian old quarter with its Chinese Assembly Halls, colorful pagodas, ancestral houses and the Japanese Covered Bridge – the symbol of Hoian. The rest of the day is free to stroll around the narrow, winding traffic free streets. You may like to seek out one of the many tailors in the market and have a dress or suit made to measure. Overnight in Hoian Breakfast Lunch DAY 9 HOIAN – MY SON After breakfast we have a half-day guided tour of My Son – an important archaeological site containing a number of Hindu temples dating from the 4th to 14th century and created by the once mighty Cham Empire, which at its peak ruled much of central and southern Vietnam. The temples are dedicated to the worship of the Hindu god Shiva. In 1999 My Son was recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage site. We spend around an hour at My Son before returning to Hoian where there is free time for more sightseeing or picking up that tailor made outfit! Overnight in Hoian Breakfast DAY 10 HOIAN – DANANG – FLY TO SAIGON We depart Hoian for Danang and the short internal flight to Saigon, now more commonly referred to as Ho Chi Minh City. Arrive at Tan Son Nhat airport and transfer to our hotel. In the afternoon we explore the downtown area by cyclo visiting the moving War Remnants Museum, Notre Dame Cathedral, Central Post Office and the Reunification Palace. The reminder of the day is at leisure Overnight in Saigon Breakfast Lunch DAY 11 SAIGON – CU CHI TUNNELS In the morning we drive out of Vietnam's largest city to the Cu Chi Tunnels. This fascinating half day tour will help give an insight in to how the Viet Cong managed to conceal themselves from first the French and then the American forces. We then return to Saigon around mid-day. The rest of the day is free for some last minute shopping or further exploration. Overnight in Saigon Breakfast DAY 12 DEPARTURE DAY Free time until your transfer to Saigon airport for your flight home.

TOUR COST: This tour is private and can be well tailor-made to suite your travel needs. As a result the price is quoted in US dollars and per person basis. The final price will be privately quoted upon your own number of participants, time of travel, grade of hotel rooms and other detailed services. Please contact us at sales@indochinapioneer and then our travel consultant will customize the best value holiday for you. Thank you! TOUR INCLUDES: Accommodation based on twin shared room at selected hotels with daily breakfast Check-in time at all hotels is 14:00 and check-out time at all hotels is 12.00 Early check-in and late check-out is subject to availability with surcharge. Meals, drinks and other those mentioned in the itinerary (B= Breakfast, L= Lunch, D= Dinner) National Escort for group of ten or above. Regional tour guide(s) applied for group under 10. Tours and transfers as mentioned by private air-conditioned vehicle Sightseeing fees and permits during guided time Domestic flights from Hanoi – Hue, Da Nang- Saigon

TOUR EXCLUDES: Travel Insurance (Compulsory) International flight tickets Visas and airport departure tax Meals, Drinks and other those NOT mentioned in the itinerary Laundry, telephone calls and expenditure of a personal nature

Tips and gratuities

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Tour No.6

MOUNTAINS TO THE SEA HA NOI

SAPA

HA LONG

DAY 1 HANOI ARRIVAL

ABOUT THIS TRIP: BESIDE HANOI, TWO OF THE BEST DESTINATIONS IN THE NORTH OF VIETNAM ARE VISITED ON THIS TRIP! WHILE HALONG BAY IS NO DOUBT A H E AV E N O N E A R T H , S A P A SHOWCASES A PARADISE, STILL TO BE DISCOVERED BY OUTSIDERS, WITH THE LIVELY ETHNIC H’MONG, RED DZAO (YAO) AND OTHER HILL TRIBES, WHILE ENCOMPASSING OLD FRENCH VILLAS AND A BEAUTIFULLY ROMANTIC CLIMATE ALL YEAR ROUND!

Arrive in Hanoi and transfer to your hotel. The remainder of today is at your leisure to rest and relax or enjoy the thrill of a cyclo (rickshaw) tour to explore the fascinating Old quarter and the charming Hoan Kiem (Sword Restored) Lake. Welcome dinner is in a local Vietnamese restaurant. Overnight in Hanoi Dinner DAY 2 HANOI CITY TOUR – OVERNIGHT TRAIN TO LAO CAI Morning, we embark on a full day tour of Hanoi, a unique and beautiful city with tree-lined boulevards, French colonial architecture, peaceful lakes and oriental temples. Our tour includes Ho Chi Minh's Mausoleum (closed Mondays and Fridays plus Oct-Nov), his former Presidential Palace and house on stilts. Also on this site is the historical One Pillar Pagoda built in 1049. Next we visit the Temple of Literature, regarded as the very first National University of Vietnam as well as the Temple of Confucius. We enjoy lunch in a local restaurant before continuing our tour with a visit to the interesting and informative Ethnology Museum to gain an overview of the fascinating ethnic diversity of Vietnam. End the day by visiting the Ngoc Son Temple and attending the traditional water puppet show. Tonight we are transferred from our hotel to Hanoi station to board the overnight train to Lao Cai. Overnight on A/C train Breakfast DAY 3 ARRIVE IN LAO CAI - SAPA Early this morning arrive in Lao Cai and transfer along the picturesque terraced hillsides to Sapa, home to some of Vietnam's most colourful ethnic groups. After breakfast, commence with a short hike down to the Black H'mong ethnic minority village of Cat Cat, nestled in a beautiful valley and surrounded by rice paddy fields and spectacular scenery, returning to Sapa for lunch in a local restaurant. In the afternoon, we take a short drive (45 minutes) to the Red Dao minority village of Ta Phin where we can mingle with the Red Zao minority group. The Zao women shave their hair and eyebrows and wear a large red turban often covered with old coins or jewellery. Take this unique opportunity to chat with them and purchase some of their wonderful handicrafts. Drive back to Sapa to spend the night. Overnight in Sapa Lunch Breakfast Dinner

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w w w. i n d o c h i n a p i o n e e r. c o m DAY 4 SAPA – LAO CHAI – TA VAN Morning we bid a farewell to Sapa and commence our walk to Lao Chai. After 45 minutes walking on the main road we take a turning to a buffalo dirt trail and continue to trek until we reach the Village of Lao Chai – home to Black H'Mong minority, arriving around midday. We make a stop in a local restaurant on the riverside to enjoy our picnic lunch. In the afternoon, we proceed for a further hour and a half, through local villages, and eventually arrive at the charming village of Tavan, home to the hill tribe group, the Zay where we'll enjoy a home cooked dinner. Tonight we are provided with simple bedding as guests in a local home. (Today is about 5 hours of trekking) Overnight in local home Breakfast

Lunch

Dinner

DAY 5 TA VAN – GIANG TA CHAI – SAPA Morning we rise and say goodbye to our gracious host family and trek to the village of Giang Ta Chai passing through lush green bamboo forest along dirt trails to the picturesque terraces of rice paddy fields. Stop at a waterfall to meet the Red Zao people who gather here to sell their wonderful handicrafts. After a final haul uphill out of the valley we will arrive at the large concrete road to meet awaiting jeeps for transfer back to Sapa. Check into hotel day-use rooms for shower and refreshment. The rest of the day is free to explore the diversity and colour of Sapa and take advantage of the amazing shopping of local handicrafts. Late afternoon, we return to Lao Cai to board the overnight train back to Hanoi. Overnight on A/C train Breakfast

Lunch

Dinner

DAY 6 HANOI – HALONG On arrival in Hanoi early morning, our bus will pick us up for transfer directly to Halong Bay where we set sail through these spectacular surroundings while enjoying a delicious lunch. Take in the scenery of thousands of sculpted limestone islands rising from the sparkling blue waters like dragons' teeth. After lunch, cruise to the inside of the magical landscape of Dinh Huong Island, Ga Choi Island and Dog Island with a stop in the late afternoon to visit Sung Sot Cave. Enjoy a panoramic view of the bay from the top of the Titop Mountain before re-boarding our boat to enjoy dinner while watching the glow of the sunset make a spectacular end to the day. Lunch Breakfast Dinner DAY 7 HALONG BAY - HANOI Rise to the sound of the ocean coming to life for another lovely day. Watch the sun rise dramatically over the horizon as you enjoy an early buffet breakfast on board. We then take a bamboo row boat to discover mystical water tunnels with many coral reefs in a scenic lagoon. Return to the boat to check-out and have a light lunch before cruising back to the Halong dock for our scenic and interesting drive back to Hanoi. Upon arriving in Hanoi early afternoon, the rest of today is at your leisure to continue to explore the beauty of this bustling city before meeting for a farewell dinner. Overnight in Hanoi Lunch Breakfast Dinner DAY 8 HANOI DEPARTURE After breakfast you will have the chance to wander around Hanoi for your last minute shopping before transferring to the airport for your departure flight. Breakfast TOUR COST: This tour is private and can be well tailor-made to suite your travel needs. As a result the price is quoted in US dollars and per person basis. The final price will be privately quoted upon your own number of participants, time of travel, grade of hotel rooms and other detailed services. Please contact us at sales@indochinapioneer and then our travel consultant will customize the best value holiday for you. Thank you! TOUR INCLUDES: Meals, drinks and other those mentioned in the itinerary (B= Breakfast, L= Lunch, D= Dinner) English speaking tour guide(s) Tours and transfers as mentioned by private air-conditioned vehicle Sightseeing fees and permits during guided time Domestic trains; Hanoi – Sapa – Hanoi (economy class) Accommodation based on twin shared room at selected hotels with daily breakfast TOUR EXCLUDES: Travel Insurance (Compulsory) Other flight tickets Visas and airport departure tax Meals, drinks and other those mentioned in the itinerary Laundry, telephone calls and expenditure of a personal nature Tips and gratuities

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Tour No.7

LAOS NORTHERN HIGHLIGHTS

ABOUT THIS TRIP: ENJOY THE DIVERSITY OF THESE TWO CITIES: THE BUSY TOURIST ATTRACTION LUANG PRABANG WITH A CHARMING UNESCO WORLD H E R I TA G E TO W N A N D L O T S O F ACTIVITIES, AND THE QUIET PEACEFUL CAPITAL OF VIENTIANE. THESE PLACES ARE ALSO THE AIRLINE HUBS OF LAOS PROVIDING EASY ACCESS TO NEIGHBORING COUNTRIES, SHOULD YOU CHOOSE TO VENTURE FURTHER AFIELD.

Indochina Pioneer

DAY 1 ARRIVAL VIENTIANE Upon arrival at Wattay Airpot, you will be met and transferred to your hotel. After you check in and enjoy a refreshment we will take a tour of the major sights of the capital. Including the oldest, Wat Sisaket with thousands of miniature Buddha statues. Also the former royal temple of Wat Prakeo which previously housed the famous Emerald Buddha Image. On the way to the famous sacred structure of That Luang Stupa, we stop to take some memorable pictures of the imposing Patuxai which is well known as Vientiane's very own L'Arc de Triomphe. Overnight in Vientiane. Dinner DAY 2 VIENTIANE – VANG VIENG Heading out of town, we travel by road to Vang Vieng with a stopover at the archeological sight of Vang Xang dating back to the 11th century. On arrival at Vang Vieng, we cross the Nam Song River, and then enjoy a short trek through the breathtaking mountain landscape to Tam None cave and some hill villages. Today ends with a spectacular view of the sunset over the Nam Song River. Overnight in Vang Vieng. Lunch Breakfast Dinner DAY 3 VANG VIENG – TREKKING After breakfast, we start our trek exploring the surrounding area of Vang Vieng, which is famous for the beautiful, breathtaking, limestone formations as well as the mystical caves. Along the way, we visit the legendary cave of Tham Chang, the Ban Namka village, the Tai Deang and the Souay hill tribe people. They are exceptionally friendly and will welcome our visit. The remainder of the day is free for your own exploration of the town and a relaxed stroll around the shopping areas. Overnight in Vang Vieng Lunch Breakfast Dinner DAY 4 VANG VIENG – LUANG PRABANG An early morning start to drive to Luang Prabang, which is perhaps the best preserved, traditional city in Southeast Asia. The road conditions are very poor, however the unequalled scenery with a mixture of steep terraced fields and hill tribe villages makes you soon forget about the roads! This will prove to be an interesting and unforgettable journey. After check-in to your hotel, we visit the impressive stupa of Wat Visoun and the shrine of Wat Mai. We then climb to the top of Phousi Hill for an enjoyable exploration of the sacred gilded stupa, as well as a beautiful sunset view of the city and the mighty Mekong River. Overight at Luang Prabang.

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VIENTIANE

VANG VIENG

VIENTIANE

DAY 5 LUANG PRABANG – PAR OU CAVES – LUANG PRABANG Today, we enjoy a short guided tour of the cities oldest temple and the magnificent Wat Xieng Thong with its roof sweeping low to the ground, which represents the classical architecture of Luang Prabang temple. We then embark upon a cruise upstream on the Mekong River which also gives us a beautiful view of the tranquil countryside as well as an interesting visit to the mysterious of Pak Ou Caves, crammed with thousands of gold lacquered Buddha statues of various shapes and sizes. Along the way, we stop at the village of Ban Xang Hai, where they make a local rice wine. On return, we take a short drive to Ban Phanom, well known for its hand weaving. Overnight in Luang Prabang. Breakfast

Lunch

Dinner

DAY 6 LUANG PRABANG – VIENTIANE Visit the National Museum at the former Royal Palace, which displays a lovely and diverse collection of the artifacts reflecting the richness of the Laos culture dating from the days of the early Kings right through to the last sovereign. This and the central market are not to be missed. We will visit this sight this morning before we take a flight back to Vientiane. Overnight in Vientiane. Breakfast DAY 7 DEPARTURE After breakfast you are free for any last minute shopping until it is time to transfer to Wattay Airport for departure. Breakfast

TOUR COST: This tour is private and can be well tailor-made to suite your travel needs. As a result the price is quoted in US dollars and per person basis. The final price will be privately quoted upon your own number of participants, time of travel, grade of hotel rooms and other detailed services. Please contact us at sales@indochinapioneer and then our travel consultant will customize the best value holiday for you. Thank you! TOUR INCLUDES: Accommodation is based on sharing a twin or double room at pre-selected hotels with breakfast. English speaking tour guide All transfers and transportation Meals as mentioned in the itinerary (B= Breakfast, L= Lunch, D= Dinner) Domestic flight: Luang Prabang – Vientiane (economy class) All guided sightseeing fees and entrance fees as per itinerary TOUR EXCLUDES: Travel Insurance (Compulsory) Other flight tickets Visas and airport departure tax Meals, and drinks other those mentioned in the itinerary Laundry, telephone calls and expenditure of a personal nature

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Tour No.8 CAMBODIA SPECIAL ABOUT THIS TRIP: W H I L E A S H O RT S TAY AT T H E C A P I TA L C I T Y P H N O M P E N H SKETCHES THE RECENT HISTORY OF THE COUNTRY, THE 3 NIGHTS IN SIEM REAP BRINGS AN INSIGHTFUL LOOK INTO THE HISTORY AND DAILY LIFE OF THE TYPICAL KHMER LEGENDARY KINGDOM. THIS TRIP IS N O R M A L LY TA K E N I N CONJUNCTION WITH A PACKAGE TOUR TO EITHER VIETNAM, LAOS OR THAILAND

DAY 1 ARRIVE PHNOM PENH After your arrival in Phnom Penh you are transferred to your hotel and then you will be able to explore the city at leisure DAY 2 PHNOM PENH CITY TOUR Today you'll enjoy a tour of this beautiful city. In the morning we will visit the National Museum, the Royal Palace and the Silver Pagoda. In the afternoon we will enjoy the Touesleng Museum and the Watt Phnom. We will still have time to visit the famous Russian Market, a joy for bargain hunters looking to purchase unique souvenirs! Breakfast DAY 3 PHNOM PENH – FLY TO SIEM REAP In the morning we take a short flight to Siem Reap. After you are transferred to your hotel and check in, the rest of the morning is yours to enjoy as you wish. In the afternoon we will visit the oldest Rolous group of temples, the Preah Ko, Bakong and Lolei temples Breakfast DAY 4 SIEM REAP/ ANGKOR WAT Today we will get up early to view the wonderful sunrise at Angkor Wat. We will spend the morning exploring Angkor Thom, the site of the ancient capital of the Khmer period. We will see the South Gate, Bayon, the Royal Enclosure, Phimeanakas, the Elephant Terrace and the Terrace of the Leper King. Then we will visit Ta Prohm, which many consider to be the most beautiful of all the temples. The whole afternoon will be spent exploring the main Angkor Watt Temple, full of amazing artifacts from numerous eras and bearing the stamp of thousands of workers and artisans, a must see for anyone interested in the history of Angkor Wat. Lunch Breakfast

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PHNOM PENH

DAY 5 SIEM REAP - TONLE SAP LAKE This morning we take a boat trip on the Tonle Sap Lake to see the ancient way of life on the water. Then you will have time to shop in the Old Market where you can buy a variety of unique wares. In the afternoon, we will take a 45 minute drive through the beautiful countryside to visit Bantaey Srei and Bantaey Kdei. Many consider Bantaey Srei to be one of the prettiest temple in Cambodia. Finally, we'll view the stunning sunset over Pre Rup temple, a beautiful way to end the day. Lunch Breakfast DAY 6 DEPARTURE The day is yours to enjoy at leisure until departure. Breakfast

SIEM REAP

TOUR COST: This tour is private and can be well tailor-made to suite your travel needs. As a result the price is quoted in US dollars and per person basis. The final price will be privately quoted upon your own number of participants, time of travel, grade of hotel rooms and other detailed services. Please contact us at sales@indochinapioneer and then our travel consultant will customize the best value holiday for you. Thank you! TOUR INCLUDES: Accommodation based on twin shared room at selected hotels with daily breakfast Check-in time at all hotels is 14:00 and check-out time at all hotels is 12.00Early check-in and late check-out is subject to availability with surcharge. Meals, as mentioned in the itinerary (B= Breakfast, L= Lunch, D= Dinner) Does not include beverages/drinks. English speaking tour guide(s) All transfers and transportation. Domestic flight: Phnom Penh – Siem Reap (economy class) All guided sightseeing fees and entrance fees as per itinerary TOUR EXCLUDES: Travel Insurance (Compulsory) Flight tickets, other than those mentioned in itinerary. Visas and airport departure tax. Meals and drinks, other than those mentioned in the itinerary. Laundry, telephone calls and expenditure of a personal nature. Tips and gratuities.

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HOW DO WE CHOOSE OUR HOTELS? WITHOUT A GOOD NIGHTS SLEEP, YOU CAN’T BE IN THE BEST MOOD TO ENJOY YOUR HOLIDAY. INDOCHINA PIONEER ABSOLUTELY UNDERSTANDS THAT, AND OUR TOP PRIORITY GOES INTO THE EXCELLENT QUALITY HOTELS WE SELECT FOR OUR CLIENTS.

O U R S TA N DA R D S I N C L U D E  Quiet, spacious and clean rooms.       

Comfortable beds, with an emphasis on bedding. Taking into account any special requests you may have. Exceptional Customer Service by the chosen hotel’s staff. Location, location, location! Hotels with rooms to suit families, honeymooners, couples, singles, groups or a business stay. Non-smoking rooms. However you can let us know if you would prefer rooms a smoking room! High quality breakfast, to suit most tastes! Cheap is not always good, but our best value hotels are always value for money!

Since this is designed to be a holiday of a lifetime, you are always at liberty to choose you own hotel, just let us know your choice and we will do our best to acquire it for your stay

THIS IS HOW WE CLASSIFY OUR AC C O M M O DAT I O N O P T I O N S PREMIUM

Mostly run by international hotel chains, but there are some top notch hotels and resorts that are run by our local businesses. The common practice found in those properties is that even the most sophisticated travelers are entirely satisfied!

D E LU X E

Exceptional service, excellent quality rooms and facilities, and International standards of customer service, are what to expect at this level of accommodation. Indochina Pioneer’s selection of this hotel class includes international chains, government run hotels and some local business hotels.

SUPERIOR

Mostly modern hotels that are rated as 3 star trendy hotels, in best locations in each city. Indochina Pioneer’s handpicked hotels ensure the best room quality together with friendly accommodating customer service. And most importantly, we can assure you that there will always be a WINDOW in any room we book for our clients. We mention this because some hotel rooms do not have windows, much to the dismay of some travelers!

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HA NOI CAPITAL

Sofitel Legend Metropole

Silk Path Hotel

The Metropole is an award-winning French colonial-style hotel located in the heart of Hanoi. The first Sofitel Legend property offers 364 rooms & suites, complemented by a choice of three restaurants (French, Vietnamese and Italian), three bars, seven function rooms, a heated swimming pool, health club, the luxurious Le Spa du Metropole, complimentary wifi and for hotel guests a daily tour of the recently opened war-time bomb shelter and Path of History guided by hotel's Ambassador of History.

The chic and elegant Silk Path Hotel Hanoi, conveniently located at the heart of Hanoi's Old Quarter, close to most city's major attractions. This exclusive residence, the newest luxury 4-star boutique hotel in Vietnam's capital is unlike any other property in the dynamic city. Boasting a striking marblefaçade and stand-out art works, the Silk Path Hotel is gracefully designed to blend sophisticated elegance with modern beauty while preserving its oriental spirit.

Elegance Diamond Hotel Opened in May 2010, boutique in size and style with streamlined service and luxury rooms that meticulously blend elegant decor with state of the art technology, the brand new eco-friendly Hanoi Elegance Diamond Hotel is once again perfectly positioned to be your hotel of choice in Hanoi.

HA LONG

Paradise Luxury Cruise

Bhaya cruise 2

Paradise Luxury Cruise is a fully serviced cruise offering all kinds of amenities and complete spa facilities including dry sauna, Jacuzzi, massages and beauty treatments. It is perfect for those who seek a more intimate and prestigious experience. The Paradise Luxury Cruise offers a stylish restaurant and bar with a romantic setting and spectacular view of Halong Bay, the jewel in the crown of Vietnam's travel destinations.

The Bhaya Cruise blends in the perfect combination of oriental charms and contemporary luxury. The cruise offers some of the most exclusive and peaceful escape to the unspoiled nature, where you will be greeted with the majestic view of the bay in the morning and served the finest Vietnamese cuisine during the night.

Dragon Pearl Cruise Named and designed after an authentic Chinese junk, the original Red Dragon junk plied the rivers, seas and harbours of the Far East, from Singapore to northern China. Our Red Dragon is complete with five deluxe cabins and designed to resonate with superior class and grandeur

S A PA

Victoria Sapa Resort & Spa

The four star Victoria Sapa Resort & Spa, the only luxury hotel in North-Western Vietnam, opened in March 1998. Built as a traditional mountain chalet with accented wooden décor and a welcoming stone hearth fireplace, the Victoria Sapa Resort & Spa overhangs the village, blending perfectly with the natural surroundings.

Topas Ecolodge Topas Ecolodge is situated in the perfect location at two cone-shaped hills set deep in the spectacular Sapa valley of Northern Vietnam. The ecolodge consists of 25 individual lodges placed in a circle around the hills. From the lodge there are breathtaking views across the scenic valleys below, which are home to villages of the Tay and Red Dao minorities.

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Sapa Rooms Boutique Hotel Escape the city and your everyday life by nourishing your senses and spirit with a true mountain getaway. Sapa Rooms is a very special place, a hidden Gem, situated right in the heart of Sapa town, occupying an unprecedented corner location and overlooking the stunning terraced valleys of Sapa. Come to get away from it all or to experience age old cultures and a new passion, the hotel promises a memorable adventure at Sapa Rooms' boutique hotel.

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HUE

La Residence Resort & Spa

Built in 1930 as part of the official residence of the French governor, the original mansion underwent a painstaking restoration to preserve its unique architecture and atmosphere. Two new wings, each designed to mirror the original aesthetic, complement the restored mansion. Today, the hotel offers 122 rooms and suites. Elegant art deco touches from the 1920s to 1950s inspire every space within the hotel, tempting guests to take a nostalgic step back in time.

Saigon Morin Hotel

Hue Orchid Hotel

Built in 1901 by the French businessmen, Mr. Bogarde, the hotel was the first one in Central Vietnam. After suffering heavy damage by the Typhoon of 1904, the Hotel was transferred into the hands of Mr. Guerin and renamed "The Grand Hotel de Hue".1907 - Morin's Brothers possessed the Property, enlarged and upgraded it to the best Hotel in Hue.

This luxurious boutique style hotel, located within five-minutes of the Huong River, is positioned on a quiet street. As one of the top rated hotels in Hue, guests can expect outstanding service, elegant decoration, and modern amenities that are well kept. The Orchid Hotel is the perfect location for those who want a top rated hotel with world-class amenities in a unique and quiet location.

HOI AN

The Nam Hai The stunning all villa resort located on pristine Hoi An Beach features sixty one-bedroom retreats as well as forty privately owned two-tofive bedroom residences each with a private infinity pool. Resort guests and residence owners at this award winning property enjoy impeccable service amid lush landscaping and unobstructed views of the sea. The unique and gracious culture of Central Vietnam combines with The Nam Hai's unprecedented splendor to deliver one of the world's foremost luxury experiences.

Vinh Hung Riverside Resort & Spa Vinh Hung Riverside Resort & Spa is a well-known resort in Hoi An, one of the famous World Heritage Sites in Vietnam. The resort is located on the bank of the romantic Hoi An Thu Bon River in secluded gardens but is also a short 5 minute walk from the Old Town. Staying at Vinh Hung Riverside Resort & Spa will make your time in Hoi An even more memorable. Vinh Hung Riverside Resort & Spa offers its guests luxury and gracious hospitality in a traditional Vietnamese environment.

Ha An Hotel A very pleasant boutique style hotel close to the old town, the Ha An is beautifully situated amid peaceful gardens and water features. Well appointed rooms, decent restaurant and the Ha-An hotel is convenient stay in Hoian. This large and charming garden hotel is set at the eastern edge of Hoi An and has a large, very pleasant garden area in front highlighted by potted orchids.

NHA TRANG

Evason Ana Mandara Resort Located directly on the beach, the Evason Ana Mandara at Nha Trang Hotel is set overlooking the beach and complimented by a stunning view of the Nha Trang Bay. Evason Ana Mandara at Nha Trang Hotel comprises 16 villas providing 74 well-appointed guest rooms, all with a private terrace and modern amenities. Besides a tennis court, the Evason Ana Mandara at Nha Trang Hotel has a swimming pool and a Jacuzzi for relaxation.

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Novotel Hotel Nha Trang

Sun & Sea Hotel

Family friendly as well as ideal for a corporate retreat, this Novotel property in Nha Trang makes for an ideal destination in this resort town. Located in the center of town, the hotel is just 35 km from the airport. Despite the location, this Novotel property is just walking distance to the beach, and a a swim in the South China Sea.

This 10 storey hotel with international standard is perfectly located in the heart of Nha Trang city facing the beautiful Nha Trang bay. Being situated just 30 minutes from Cam Ranh Airport makes Sea & Sun Hotel Nha Trang an ideal destination for both business and leisure travelers. Comprising fine decor and well furnished rooms and suites, this hotel is committed to bring about exhilarating experiences and a comfortable stay.

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PHAN THIET

The Princess d'Annam Resort Set on the secluded and pristine Ke Ga bay, facing a century-old French light house, the Princess d'Annam is the first boutique resort in Vietnam. Designed by world-renowned architect Tan Hock Beng, the resort style exudes modernist sensibility and post-colonial ambience. An idyllic haven of serenity and luxury, the property boasts exclusive villas and first-class facilities including a sumptuous spa complex.

The Blue Ocean Resort The Blue Ocean Resort is situated in Mui Ne, a coastal resort town in the Binh Thuan province of southeastern Vietnam close to the city of Phan Thiết. This beautiful resort features a great variety of rooms and bungalows to cater to every lodging need. All units come with full modern amenities, including satellite TV and Wi-Fi Internet access.

Mia Resort Mui Ne Mia Resort Mui Ne offers guests a warm and pleasant stay on the golden shores of Mui Ne Beach. The resort is set right on the beachfront, with Sandals Restaurant & Bar and pool area gazing over the East Sea. The resort aims to provide the ultimate in relaxation with contemporary, attentive service in an elegant environment. Comfortable and spacious guest rooms and bungalows provide you with beautifully designed furnishings and indigenous decor.

SAI GON

Park Hyatt Hotel Experience the essence of the modern Vietnamese lifestyle at Park Hyatt Saigon, a 5-star hotel situated at Lam Son Square in Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC) centre. This grand boutique hotel in Saigon majestically rises nine stories above District 1, steps from the city's major attraction. Hyatt's 244 rooms & suites redefine urban luxury, blending sophisticated design and décor with the latest modern comforts as the leading Ho Chi Minh hotel.

Novotel Saigon Centre Novotel Saigon Centre is perfectly located in downtown with easy access to many major consulates, comercial area, culture, shopping and entertainment center. The hotel features 247 spacious and comfortable rooms with The Square international buffet restaurant, 167 Faubourg bar, In Balance Spa and Fitness center including an outdoor swimming pool, 24-hour fitness.

Hoang Hai Long Hotel Hoang Hai Long Hotel is centrally located in the midst of Ho Chi Minh City, and within walking distance of major centres of commerce and entertainment. It takes only two-minute walking to Ben Thanh Market, more three minutes to Saigon Opera House, Saigon Notre Dame Cathedral Basilica, etc.., The hotel is the perfect place for business and leisure tour

PHU QUOC

Mgallery La Veranda Resort Housed in a colonial style mansion, this luxury property is in the middle of a 12 mile stretch of white sand. Designed to reflect the ambiance of a colonial seaside mansion, the boutique resort is set surrounded by tropical gardens. Located off the coast of Vietnam, the resort is a gem on Phu Quoc Island, fast becoming a tourist hot spot.

Chen Sea Resort & Spa Chen Sea Resort & Spa is a luxuriously decorated resort located on the beautiful Phu Quoc, Vietnam's largest island. Accommodation on offer all has spectacular views of the beach and pool. Each villa has private balconies, open bath and pool. Guests looking for relaxation can go to an on-site spa where several treatments can be delighted in. Chenla Restaurant, located in front of the sea, is a great place to sample local, Mediterranean and international cuisine.

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The Mango Bay Resort Fifteen minutes north of Phu Quoc airport Mango Bay the island's first eco-friendly, low density resort is driven by a passion to protect the environment and a strong commitment towards island culture. The bungalows' al-fresco bathrooms, for example, harness solar-powered hot water. The Mango Bay Resort offers a uniquely relaxing atmosphere.

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PHNOM PENH

Sofitel Phnom Penh Hotel Perfectly set in a natural atmosphere overlooking magnificent view of Mekong River, this luxury hotel welcomes all guests who seek for a superior accommodation and convenience. The property is a short drive from the airport, offering 210 well-appointed rooms and welldesigned suites with a range of amenities and modern facilities. With its superior accommodation and location, Sofitel Phnom Penh Phokeethra Hotel is an excellent choice for anyone seeking for a luxury comfort and convenience.

Sunway Hotel

Anise Hotel

The Sunway Hotel is convenient to everything Phnom Penh has to offer, and is only 10 km (6 miles) away from Phnom Penh International Airport. Guests will find all of the finest amenities in each of the 138 rooms in this popular 4-star hotel. Featured in each room, among other amenities, are telephone, electronic/magnetic key, air conditioning, desk and private safe.

Nestled in the heart of Beung Keng Kang, Anise Hotel is an ideal spot from which to discover Phnom Penh. From here, guests can enjoy easy access to all that the lively city has to offer. No less exceptional is the hotel's easy access to the city's myriad attractions and landmarks, such as The Place Club, Preah Sihanouk, Lucky Market. At Anise Hotel, the excellent service and superior facilities make for an unforgettable stay.

SIEM REAP

Amansara Hotel Once the guest villa of King Norodom Sinhanouk, set in private gardens ten minutes from the city's renowned ruins, the Amansara Hotel has been transformed into a five-star resort with the ambience of a gracious home. The showcase of this amazing hotel is the circular Dining Room with a soaring 7m ceiling, offering traditional Asian and Western cuisine. Suites all have private water garden courtyards, separated from the bathroom by a floor to ceiling glass wall.

Tara Angkor Hotel

Golden Temple Hotel

This new luxury hotel recently opened and displays a fine fusion of traditional Khmer/Thai charm and décor. Located near the city center but not too far away from Siem Reap's International Airport, guests may arrange shuttle pick-up and drop-off to make arrival and departure hassle free. The beautiful swimming pool, business center, and lounge make checking into the Tara Angkor Hotel a memorable experience.

Song Saa Private Island Resort this 5-star resort boasts tropical reefs, azure waters, white sandy beaches, and stunning sunset. The resort is home to 27 rooms, all tastefully furnished to provide comforts. All villas include private pools, sun-decks and ocean views whilst the rest of the resort offers spa, yoga, and sea sports.

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Less than a 5-minute walk from the Old Market area, Golden Temple Hotel is a 15-minute drive from Angkor Wat and Siem Reap-Angkor International Airport. Fitted with natural wood furnishing, spacious air-conditioned rooms at Golden Temple feature a flat-screen TV and a DVD player. Private bathrooms come with a hairdryer, along with bathrobes and slippers. Coffee/tea making facilities and a minibar are included.

SHIHANOUKVILLE

Spanning the Gulf of Thailand islands of Koh Ouen and Koh Bong,

Set amidst gardens, Golden Temple Hotel features traditional Khmer décor and hospitality blended with modern comforts. It features an outdoor pool, a restaurant and bar and free Wi-Fi access.

Independence Hotel

Reef Resort

The charming, four star Independence Hotel is located on Sihanoukville's harbor, right by Independence beach and offers 76 rooms on 7 floors. The resort overlooks the sea. The resort is just a short drive from the city center, and around 15 minutes drive from the Sihanouk Ville International Airport.

Well-positioned in Ochheuteal Beach and Serendipity Beach, Reef Resort is the ideal point of departure for your excursions in Sihanoukville. The hotel is not too far from the city center: just 2.0 km away, and it normally takes about 200 minutes to reach the airport. No less exceptional is the hotel's easy access to the city's myriad attractions and landmarks, such as Scuba Nation Diving Center, Serendipity Beach.

Personalized Services • Private Holidays • Tailor-Made Tours

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VIENTIANE

Setha Palace Hotel Built in 1932, and restored to its former charm in 1999, the French colonial-style 43-room hotel is ideally located near the city's commercial district. The Settha Palace is just a 10 minute drive from the Wattay International Airport and 25 minute drive to Thadeua on the Laos side of the Mekong River. Their rooms feature beautiful Italian marble floors and beautiful crafted rosewood furniture, which together offers a comfortable and luxurious environment.

Green Park Boutique Hotel Green Park Boutique Hotel captures the best elements of contemporary architecture in Laos. The elegance of the interior, both historic and modern, and the glorious setting are combined to create a most distinguished feeling of style, luxury and relaxation in the Laos capital. Indulge in an era of elegant tradition where luxury abounds in the form of original antique furniture, rich art collections and exclusive nationally renowned beauty, all cocooned in Green Park Boutique hotel.

Laos Orchid Hotel The Lao Orchid Hotel is one of the most famous hotel in Vientiane with a perfect location. Next to the Mekong River, in front of Vat Chanh. The hotel provides perfect accommodation for business man and travelers. Hotel consists of deluxe room and deluxe suite with balconies and 2 apartments with a very large terrace. Free wifi internet all over the hotel, 24 hours security service.

LUANG PRABANG

La Residence Phou Vao Hotel Located in the charming old district of Luang Prabang, this beautiful Villa offers a secluded and relaxing retreat in the heart of a historic city. Villa Chitdara offers 15 quiet and tranquil guest rooms, all tastefully decorated with wooden furniture and with private balconies. Guests can expect to have air-conditioner, cable / satellite TV, mini

Xieng Thong Palace Each of the 26 rooms at this 4-star hotel have all the comforts and conveniences of home. There are in room safe, television LCD/plasma screen, bathtub in each of the hotel's well-equipped rooms. Laundry service/dry cleaning, airport transfer, Wi-Fi in public areas, safety deposit boxes are some of the extra comforts you'll find at this Luang Prabang hotel.

bar, hair dryer and complementary bottled waters provided as standard in their rooms.

Call +84 43715 3627 â&#x20AC;˘ Mail sales@indochinapioneer.com â&#x20AC;˘ Or speak to your travel experts

Villa Chitdara Located in the charming old district of Luang Prabang, this beautiful Villa offers a secluded and relaxing retreat in the heart of a historic city. Villa Chitdara offers 15 quiet and tranquil guest rooms, all tastefully decorated with wooden furniture and with private balconies. Guests can expect to have air-conditioner, cable / satellite TV, mini bar, hair dryer and complementary bottled waters provided as standard in their rooms.

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ADDITIONAL OUR TOUR GUIDES: University Graduated, fully certified with International Tour Guide Licenses are fundamental standard of our tour guide. However, being Indochina Pioneer's tour guides, our crews are: - People of Care: They do care about people more than they care about themselves! - People of Fun: Yes, they are fun to be around! They are real entertainers! - People of Professional: They do seriously love their job, thus they always fulfill their duty out of their way! - People of Responsibility: Socially aware of their job and their personal stands in each trip they made, they do carry out their responsibility in most productive way to local community, to their clients and to Indochina Pioneer team

OUR DRIVERS Safety is our TOP concern, thus our drivers are carefully selected, trained and assigned for your trip. According to our regional law, our driver process licenses level D, at least 5 years of driving experience. They are also great manner people who always control their speeding, who know stops that offer best photo shots for their clients, who do not smoke in front of their clients, who keep their vehicles always clean.

OUR TRANSPORTATION No matter you use a compact sedan car, an SUV/ MPV, mid-size bus or a full size coach, the vehicle we provide are no older than 5 years, well maintained and absolutely comfortable for long drives!

4 seater car

16 seater van

29 seater bus

45 seater coach

OUR SUGGESTED/ SELECTED RESTAURANT Either you dine an included meal or just on your own choice, the restaurant suggested by Indochina Pioneer's list features those which: -

Cook best local cuisine Meet toughest food safety regulations. Offer great selections of drinks

Friendly, attentive and professional service. Most convenience from your stay. Fit best to your expectation of a meal!

Ngon Restaurant Hanoi (18 Phan Boi Chau, Hanoi, Vietnam)

Quan Nuong (31 Ton That Thiep, District 1, HCM City)

Moring Glory in Hoi An (106 Nguyen Thai Hoc Street Hoi An, Vietnam )

Heritage Suite Restaurant (Wat Polangka, Siem Reap 93101, Cambodia)

Ngon means "delicious," and, for authentic Vietnamese, this restaurant lives up to its name and gets my vote for the best in Vietnam. Ngon has become a real Ho Chi Minh institution and is always packed with both locals and tourists; they've even built a new location nearby to handle the overflow.The main building is surrounded by cooking stations, each serving a regional specialty. The menu is a survey course in Vietnamese cooking, and the tuition is low

This is an amazing eating place in Saigon. The restaurant has gas barbecues embedded in table tops, and you order from a large menu of dishes to barbecue. Some of the most wanted dishes are the Bo Tung Xeo, the Bo La Lot, and the beef wrapped around cheese. A special mention has to go to the prawns, which are brought to the table alive on skewers, the upshot of which is that they often kick each other off the grill! There are also some very tasty salads and vegetable dishes to complement all the grilled delights.

This is crown jewel of local restaurateur Ms. Vy's empire (owner of the Mermaid, White Lantern, and Hoi An Cargo Club). The two-story restaurant is housed in an old colonial building in the heart of Hoi An's old district. It features an open kitchen on the ground floor, large dining areas on both floors, and a trio of tables on the balcony upstairs. The menu is a delightful selection of Vietnamese street food; it includes tips and recommendations from Ms. Vy on the health properties of ingredients (for example, for cooling the body in hot weather, try the traditional dessert Che, made with soft tofu and ginger syrup).

Considered as one of the best ratautant in Cambodia, the Heritage Suites Restaurant serves traditional Khmer, Asian and Western cuisines in casual setting. Guests can also have al fresco dining experience by the pool and later, round off their day with a pint of fine drink at the bar.

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Personalized Services â&#x20AC;˘ Private Holidays â&#x20AC;˘ Tailor-Made Tours

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WHY INDOCHINA PIONEER? More than just a fully licensed International Tour Operator, our direct connections with local suppliers, our flexible and personalized services and our local knowledge make us best for your choice. We are legally Fully Licensed International Tour Operator, recognized by Vietnamese Government. We live, work and enjoy our life in the region. Our business operations is in our homeland Tour programs are built on our life time career experience, with personal care to our clients need. Flexibly customized packages, crafted into every single detail to suite our clients need. Best valued holiday price for independent travelers, attractive contract rates for Business partners!

BOOKING GUIDE There are plenty ways to plan your holiday with us: By Phone Hot lines

: :

Office phone: By email :

+84 983 145 799 Mr. Quyen +84 982 116 630 Mr. Lam +84 4 37153626 from 08:30 AM until 18:00 PM GMT + 7 Weekdays To our Sales Team: sales@indochinapioneer.com To Mr. Quyen: quyen@indochinapioneer.com To Mr. Lam: lam@indochinapioneer.com

Via our website: 1. Visit our website at: www.indochinapioneer.com 2. Pick a tour you like, click REQUEST button and fill in the form. Click SEND to submit your request. 3. If you wish to customize your own holiday, click BUILT YOUR OWN TRIP area on the left hand site of the page, fill in your information and click SEND to submit your request. 4. Our travel consultant will get back to you within 24 hours with our first proposal quotation and tour program. 5. You will be encouraged to work personally with our travel consultant to tailor your holiday until it is exactly what you want. Sit back then, and enjoy our services! We hope this has given you some insight into our Company, together with a little information on the destinations we offer..... to whet your appetite!

THANK YOU AND LOOK FORWARD TO SEEING YOU IN OUR REGION! TRAVEL SAFELY, AND ALWAYS REMEMBER TO

“experience, learn, enjoy”

In the meantime, for more detailed information about Indochina Pioneer , please visit our website at: http://www.indochinapioneer.com

Call +84 43715 3627 • Mail sales@indochinapioneer.com • Or speak to your travel experts

INDOCHINA PIONEER

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