Explorer 66 by EXO Travel

ISSUE 66

DISCOVER OUR CHINA ADVENTURE TRAVEL’S SOARING FUTURE THE VALUE OF FAMILIARIZATION TRIPS THE BENEFITS OF OFF SEASON TRAVEL MULTI-GENERATIONAL TRAVEL ACROSS ASIA

w w w . e x otrave l . c om / t r a d e

WELCOME

TO OUR ASIA

here’s plenty of excitement in store as we launch the ﬁrst edition of Explorer since our rebranding towards the end of last year. Our move to EXO Travel was designed to not only incorporate our pioneering and professional values, but also to inspire a connection between our incredible customers and the vastly different cultures in which we operate. We thought it would be appropriate to celebrate the occasion with a brand new design for Explorer too, and offer some exciting new features putting forward our thoughts on the future of travel.

Our Online Tariff Goes Live

Webinars to Watch

We’ve recently launched our brand new, real-time online tariff, designed to make your lives easier when looking for the most up-to-date rates across our hotels and experiences. Quick search, preferred hotels, and our unique hotel coding system means you’ll always ﬁnd exactly what you’re looking for, exactly when you need it. Log into exotravel.com/trade to make the most of this now!

Meet the Team

We’ll be attending the usual roster of trade shows so if you missed us at ITB 2015, feel free to come and have a chat with us in person at one of the future events. Travel Week Sao Paulo: 5th - 8th May, Brazil TTM+: 3rd – 5th June, Bangkok Pure Life Experiences: 9th - 12th November, Marrakech

Through our Webinar Series we will be offering our professional advice covering all of our destinations throughout the year. Join our Product Managers, our experts on the ground, as they unveil the ins and outs of these destinations as well as discussing future trends and unique opportunities. See below for 2015’s upcoming dates: Myanmar Cambodia Thailand Laos Vietnam China Thailand

24th March 09th April 21st April 05th May 26th May 09th June 23rd June

Indonesia Myanmar Cambodia Japan Laos Vietnam

16th July 08th Sep 29th Sep 06th Oct 20th Oct 10th Nov

Let’s Get Social

EXO Explorer is ﬁrst and foremost developed for you, our valued partners and we’d love to hear your input on what you would like featured in future editions.

Get in Touch: marketing@exotravel.com

IBTM World: 17th – 19th November, Barcelona

@EXO_Travel

Adventure Travel World Summit: 5th - 9th October, Chile

www.linkedin.com/company/exotravel

You can ﬁnd an up-to-date list of our trade show appearances at exotravel.com/tradeshows

www.facebook.com/ExoTravelGroup

www.youtube.com/user/exotravel

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3-4 GETTING TO KNOW YOU

Explore the value of deeper discovery ďŹ rst-hand with a familiarization trip

11-13 TREASURES OF THE TROPICS

Delve into the advantages that await travelers during Asia's off-peak but equally vibrant 'green season'

19-21 ADVENTURE CALLING The rise and rise of adventure travel

15-17 DESTINATION SHOWCASE

We deliver the inside scoop on our latest and greatest journeys

23-25 CHINA: A LOOK BACK TO THE FUTURE

Discover a glimpse of our China, from humble beginnings to looking forward to endless possibilities

28 TAKE 5: KIM RASMUSSEN

We manage to get a moment with Kim, our new Thailand Product Manager as he takes a short break from designing Thailand's most pioneering experiences

7-9 HAVE KIDS, WILL TRAVEL

Why Asia continues to hold the crown for multi-generational experiential travel www.exotravel.com/trade

GETTING TO KNOW

YOU

THE VIRTUES OF FIRST-HAND FAMILIARIZATION

n this era of easily accessible information it is easy to become an “online expert” on a destination without having travelled there. Yet while working knowledge of a country can be gleaned from digital delving, nothing beats first-hand experience when it comes to passing on wisdom to clients or employees. One of the best and most effective ways to gain a tangible appreciation of a country is through a Familiarization (FAM) Trip. The purpose of these trips is to offer a first-hand look at a country that enables participants to get a genuine feel for a place or a product, chiefly to sell more effectively to clients.

Typically lasting for around 7-9 days, a FAM Trip encompasses a whole spread of products and experiences. These can range from hotel stays and property inspections to sightseeing, cultural attractions and meals in unique dining spots. The destinations covered all have a clutch of worldfamous draws. The culinary delights and exhilarating energy of Thailand’s capital Bangkok is rightly fabled and so too are attractions such as the temples at Angkor in Cambodia, Tsukiji Fish Market in Tokyo and Bali’s famously verdant rice terraces. Each destination has plenty to offer beyond these banner sights, however, and FAM Trips provide the perfect opportunity to uncover additional nuances and quirks that are sure to contribute to a more rounded knowledge. EXO Travel’s FAM Trips are all led by the Product Manager for each destination, which means that each itinerary profits from the presence of an established specialist. “Different people look for different things from a holiday,” says Nicky Henderson, Director of Product at EXO Travel. “While one customer might be interested in the cultural and historic highlights of a country, another might be more inclined to delve deeper into a destination’s culinary heritage or to uncover some of its hidden gems.” What is great about a FAM Trip is that it gives agents a more comprehensive grounding on a destination. That way, they can better help tailor an itinerary to the specific needs and requirements of customers. Not only do the trips allow participants to flesh out their knowledge of established tourist favorites, they also

The Bridge over the River Kwai, Kanchanaburi, Thailand provide invaluable insight to places that could be classed as emerging destinations such as Tibet, southern Laos and Myanmar. EXPERIENCE OUR FAM TRIPS Our Tibet trip will take participants on a whirlwind tour of the region known as the “Roof of the World”. The itinerary will dig deep into the area’s evocative spiritual heritage with visits to several Buddhist monasteries and there will also be stops at beauty spots such as Namtso Lake as well as bustling markets and ancient fortresses. The southern Laos FAM Trip encompasses impressive natural sights such as the “4,000 Islands” - a riverine archipelago close to the border with Cambodia and the Bolaven Plateau a mountainous region home to hill tribes, waterfalls and coffee and tea plantations. In Myanmar, meanwhile, participants will mountain bike around remote villages, dine amidst the splendor of the temples at Bagan and ride the historic circular train in the former capital Yangon amongst other highlights. Other major beneﬁts to participating in a FAM Trip include the fact that they are usually heavily discounted, offering unbeatable value. In fact, with a host of incentives on offer for those that utilize their newfound knowledge to make additional sales, FAM Trips can be used as a tool to make money as well as to save it. And, with participation limited to travel industry professionals, the trips also provide extensive networking opportunities. www.exotravel.com/trade

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While working knowledge of a country can be gleaned from digital delving nothing beats ﬁrst-hand experience

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UPCOMING FAM TRIPS Trails of Tibet : 20 - 28 April 2015 Indonesia's Cultural Collection : 3 - 10 May 2015 Japan Uncovered : 13 - 19 June 2015 The Best of Vietnam : 18 - 27 Aug 2015 Cambodia Discovery : 28 Aug - 04 Sept 2015 Southern Laos Unearthed : 5 - 13 Sept 2015 Thailand Fam Trip : 16 - 23 Sept 2015 Marvels of Myanmar : 28 Sept - 05 Oct 2015

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FAM trips are not only a great way to experience a country ﬁrst-hand. They are a valuable investment in knowledge, and with generous discounts making them far more affordable than your average trip, they are as enjoyable as they are beneﬁcial.

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For more information on our upcoming FAM trips visit www.exotravel.com/famtrip www.exotravel.com/trade

Discover the city and beyond

Experience Saigon in an environment inspired by Oriental traditions. Be at home at a hotel where you have the time and space to enjoy the things that are most important to you. MODERN ORIENTAL HOSPITALITY

Welcome to New World Saigon Hotel.

76 LE LAI STREET, DISTRICT 1, HO CHI MINH CITY TEL: +84 8 3822 8888 FAX:+84 8 3823 0710

saigon@newworldhotels.com

www.saigon.newworldhotels.com

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Asia’s fast-paced cities are a hive of enjoyment for youngsters, with everything from thrilling cyclo rides to market visits providing limitless stimulation

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HAVE KIDS, WILL TRAVEL Why Asia continues to hold the crown for multi-generational experiential travel

Colorful and exotic enough to stimulate even the most formative mind, but also considered one of the safest destinations on earth, Asia is ideally geared towards family travel.

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hildren are, of course, valued the world over. However, they are particularly revered in many Asian countries, virtually guaranteeing a warm and friendly reception from the locals. Indeed, in nations that may not on the face of it be the most obvious choices for family travel such as Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar and Indonesia, there’s a good chance that the little ones will be the star attraction in any entourage. There are fun activities to be found across the region. Asia’s fast-paced cities are a hive of enjoyment for youngsters, with everything from thrilling cyclo rides to market visits providing limitless stimulation. Outside the main population centers, things are just as exciting. The magical landscapes of the region offer scope for everything from river rafting to splashing around and snorkeling in warm, crystalline waters. Meanwhile, banner draws such as the temples at Bagan in Myanmar and Angkor in Cambodia are as riveting for kids as they are for adults. A well-used saying is that travel opens the mind. And while that’s the case across the ages, exposure to different ways of life is especially beneficial for children. Asia, of course, is outstandingly rich in culture. Whether it is learning the rudiments of batik in Indonesia or observing monks collecting alms in Buddhist nations such as Thailand, Laos and Myanmar, travel in Asia is both educational and fun.

Halong Bay, Vietnam

Family focused draws can be found across the region. The more developed destinations have plenty to offer in terms of traditional family-orientated fun. Thailand has long been a favorite with tourists and the “Land of Smiles” boasts a formidable range of kid-friendly hotels and resorts as well as fun parks, gently sloping beaches and places to cavort. Tokyo and Hong Kong, meanwhile, both boast Asian outposts of the Disneyland franchise as part of entertainment portfolios that encompass museums, multi-screen cinemas and much more besides. For many, however, the whole point of an odyssey to Asia is to go beyond the familiar to really get under the skin of its many and varied destinations and cultures. From whizzing through the Beijing hutongs (narrow alleys and streets) in a vintage motorbike sidecar and marveling at street-food culture in Vietnam’s pulsing cities to commandeering a horse and cart in Myanmar, families can partake in a host of experiences that are as fun as they are unique. Arts and crafts are also a major feature of itineraries on the paradise island of Bali in Indonesia. While leisure is very much the focus on the beach enclaves that ring the island of the Gods, the culturally rich town of Ubud is the ideal place for immersion into traditional arts such as woodwork, batik and Balinese dance. Enthralling family holidays can also be enjoyed in some of Asia’s less established tourist destinations. Cambodia’s tourism infrastructure has developed dramatically in recent times and there are thrills to be found across the country. www.exotravel.com/trade

n the capital, Phnom Penh, a favorite activity is to take a tour of the city’s riverside area in a cyclo while at Angkor – the ancient seat of the Khmer Empire, kids can live out their Tomb Raider fantasies at Ta Phrom, an evocative relic enveloped by foliage and thick tree roots. Other pulse-quickening adventures include zip lining around Angkor, bathing in deep jungle pools in the southern province of Koh Kong or cycling around picturesque islands in the mighty Mekong River.

Like Cambodia, Laos perhaps wouldn’t be the first country that springs to mind when it comes to planning a family holiday. The beautiful land-locked nation is famous for its calm and relaxed aura and is a fantastic choice for a laid back and stress-free break. One of the country’s most convivial destinations is the former Royal Capital Luang Prabang. The city in the north of the country is widely regarded as one of Asia’s most beautiful and its colonial architecture, shimmering temples and range of top-class dining options can be appreciated by all age groups. Myanmar too is developing into a rounded destination to suit all ages. The largest country in mainland Southeast Asia, Myanmar is also one of the region’s least discovered. an enticing carrot for adventurers of all ages. While theme parks and multiplexes are thin on the ground, kids can enjoy entertainment of a more cultural hue, whether it is taking part in an impromptu game of chinlone, the graceful national sport, or learning how to make lacquer ware – a specialty craft in the country. With so many activities on offer, the hardest decision when it comes to travel in Asia is choosing what to leave out of an itinerary. The only thing that is certain not to be on any agenda is boredom.

Luang Prabang, Laos

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A member of

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Nicky Henderson,

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Often overlooked or dismissed as a time to travel, the green season in Southeast Asia is a spectacular period to plan a trip

Director of Product at EXO Travel.

TREASURES

OF THE TROPICS VIEWED by locals as both a spiritual and life-nurturing time of the year, monsoon season has a history of provoking less positive reactions among travelers. In fact, nothing could be further from the truth.

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uring Southeast Asia’s rainy periods, sharp rises in precipitation caused by changes in the winds facilitate crop-growth, breathe new energy into the continent’s lush forests and jungles and rehydrate previously parched earth. While those who make their living from the land welcome such an essential injection of moisture, many visitors fear that their plans will be irrevocably hampered by soggy conditions and largely leaden skies. In fact nothing is further from the truth. It is true that visitors to the region should allow for occasional heavy showers (mostly in the afternoons). But there are also a host of advantages to travelling during the rainy season. “Often overlooked or dismissed as a time to travel, the green season in Southeast Asia is a spectacular period to plan a trip,” explains Nicky Henderson, Director of Product at EXO Travel. “Not only are there fewer tourists and enticing hotel rates, but the landscape colors at this time of year are sensational and the relative absence of fellow travelers mean that those sought after photo opportunities are much easier to come by.”

Due to often vastly different weather patterns across Asia, peak season tends to vary from country to country. In fact, it is generally possible for visitors to plan an extended trip within the region without encountering much in the way of rain. However, savings of up to 25% on hotels and itineraries, allied to the visual splendor facilitated by the wetter conditions mean that smarter travelers are discovering a host of advantages to planning to visit countries outside the busier times. While the monsoon period is generally not unpleasant anywhere, there are certain destinations in Asia that truly excel during the green season. In Thailand, the spring rains following the dry season transform mountainous northern provinces such as Mae Hong Son and Chiang Mai into a vibrant carpet of emerald hues. Bisecting this impossibly lush landscape are deep valleys where powerful rivers charge through steep walls of limestone. In addition to the visual manna, green season also gives guests the ideal opportunity to interact with the local ethnic communities that inhabit the remote northern provinces.

As well as hikes to remote caves and thrilling river journeys, guests can enjoy authentic cultural experiences at Shan and Lahu villages as well as visits to bighitting tourist attractions such as Doi Inthanon, Thailand’s highest mountain, and the northern capital of Chiang Mai. Next door in Laos, the mountains of the north are equally attractive following a few short, sharp bursts of rain. Luang Prabang, the jewel of the landlocked nation, and by far and away its most visited destination, is especially alluring during the off-season. With the spring showers giving added urgency to nearby attractions such as the pretty Kuang Si Waterfalls and restoring the Mekong and Nam Khan rivers to a mighty girth, the scenery is at its most epic. Meanwhile, the absence of crowds makes the city and its surrounding caves, temples and traditional villages even more serene than usual. Further south, Cambodia also hits a brilliant peak during green season when its rice-paddies turn a vivid shade of emerald and the crowds thin out at banner sights such as the temples at Angkor. Heavy showers are generally conﬁned to just a couple of hours in the afternoon.

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herefore, there’s plenty of scope for cramming in activities such as temple hopping near Siem Reap or spotting Irawaddy dolphins on the Mekong River near the town of Kratie during the dry part of the day. Urban attractions such as Phnom Penh, Cambodia’s vibrant capital and the artsy town of Battambang in the west of the country are eminently more manageable in the cooler weather. Also attractive are the coastal hotspots of the south coast where long periods of sunshine offer ample solace to beach-lovers while the jungles and rivers of wild provinces such as Koh Kong are even more impressive after some rain. Beach breaks have traditionally been seen as incompatible with monsoon season. Therefore its long, snaking coastline means that Vietnam is perhaps not the most obvious green season destination. Nevertheless, compelling cultural sights and agreeable rates at some of the best hotels in the country allied to generous amounts of sun make beach favorites such as Danang, Nha Trang and the Gulf of Thailand island of Phu Quoc highly appealing off-season choices. With infrastructure lagging behind other Southeast Asian destinations, the emphasis in Myanmar during green season is on luxury.

There are easy transport connections between the capital Yangon and Bagan and Inle Lake, both of which possess sumptuous accommodations. Also enlivening the monsoon season in Myanmar are unique cultural events such as the Shwe Kyun Pin Nat Festival at the Irrawaddy River and Taung Pyone Spirit Festival near Mandalay. In other countries such as China and Indonesia travel during off-peak periods also reaps ample rewards. In Indonesia, the country’s vibrant scenery is brought to life during rainy season. Green season in Asia does not necessarily have to correspond to rainy periods. Take Hokkaido in Japan for instance. In winter, skiing and snowboarding fanatics from around the world descend on the northern island to experience its wealth of world-class possibilities. During the summer the beautiful Alpine landscapes open up a host of options ranging from mountain biking to river rafting. Whether it is outdoor adventure or culture without the crowds, Asia excels during off-season. In fact, with an abundance of experiences available and a wealth of attractive beneﬁts to take advantage of, there has never been a better time to go green.

Discover our green season promotions below and save up to 25% today! to ﬁnd out more visit; www.exotravel.com/trade/promotions 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 14.

Discover Historic Hoi An Town & Surrounding 5 Days / 4 Nights Essential Cambodia 8 Days / 7 Nights Luxury Nha Trang Beach Break 5 Days / 4 Nights Danang Beach Break 5 Days / 4 Nights Siem Reap To Phnom Penh 5 Days / 4 Nights Cambodia on a Shoestring 10 Days / 9 Nights Green Season Bagan 4 Days / 3 Nights Green Season Luxury 8 Days / 7 Nights Beach Break at Hua Hin 4 Days / 3 Nights Phu Quoc Beach Break 4 Days / 3 Nights Beach Break at Koh Samed 4 Days / 3 Nights Luang Prabang Express 4 Days / 3 Nights Angkor Discovery 4 Days / 3 Nights Green Season Thailand 7 Days / 6 Nights

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DESTINATION

SHOWCASE At EXO Travel, we strive to deliver fantastically unique journeys and pioneering experiences from across Asia’s wealth of stunning destinations, which provide a more intimate and complete view of the cultures within which we operate. We achieve this through our locally-based product managers, present in all of our destinations, who seek out, reﬁne, and produce an unrivalled range of meticulously curated experiential travel.

Batur Volcano, Bali, Indonesia

LAOS Jeep Journeys and Coffee Cultivation (Full Day) Exclusive to EXO Travel, this tour offers a remarkable insight into the growth and production of Lao coffee, sometimes referred to as the “Champagne of coffee”, and takes place in the picturesque setting of the Bolaven Plateau. Sampling this aromatic delight is made even more enthralling when combined with a jeep tour, trekking through local villages, and an exploration of the area’s natural caves and waterfalls. Nam Ou Biking and Kayaking (Full Day) This exciting tour journeys deep into the Laotian countryside. Traveling initially by bike, explore a number of smaller villages including Ban Pakjek, home to the Khmu hill tribe. From here, Kayaks are taken downstream through the vast landscape and past beautiful farms and villages as life passes slowly by upon the shore.

THAILAND Dine in the Dark and Toast in the Sky (Experience) Following a year-and-a-half hiatus, the fascinating 'Dine in the Dark' experience has returned to Bangkok, and this time with an EXO twist! This brilliantly unique concept guides guests into a darkened room to taste the delicious surprises of a special menu served in the dark! Adventurous foodies will then have the opportunity to savor some cocktails against the dramatic night skyline of Bangkok. Pha Taem’s Land of the Lost Ubon Ratchthani (Full Day) Discover the prehistoric rock paintings of Pha Taem National Park, and explore the fascinating cliff side that offers an inspiring view across the majestic Mekong River and into Laos. After learning the interesting theories behind the area's ancient history, embark on a relaxing cruise along the Mekong and take in the captivating views from between the borders of Thailand and Laos. www.exotravel.com/trade

MYANMAR New Tour: Extraordinary Encounters in Shan

(4 Days / 3 Nights)

VIETNAM Shhh… Saigon’s Secret Street Food Tour (Half Day) Travel by motorcycle around Saigon and explore the streets of this vibrant metropolis. Passing through the local markets within some of Saigon’s busier areas truly brings the daily life of the locals into perspective. Guided by an expert chef, knowledgeable and passionate about Vietnamese cooking, this half day tour offers a great opportunity to taste some of Vietnam’s most delicious delicacies. At Home in Hanoi (Half Day) A private home-cooked dinner in Hanoi is the perfect way to learn more about Vietnamese culture and cuisine. Hosted by a local family residing in suburban Hanoi, a typical evening meal will be enjoyed within the comfort of their home. This intimate setting offers a real immersive experience into how the locals really live and eat and go about their daily lives.

JAPAN New Tour: Kanazawa Revealed (3 Days / 2 Nights) Explore the streets of 17th century castle town, Kanazawa. Discover the breathtaking beauty of the remarkable Kenroku-en Garden, and the striking architecture of Kanazawa Castle, former home of the powerful Maeda clan who ruled the area for 300 years! Sample the deliciously fresh seafood of the famed Omicho Market, and unveil the secrets of the fascinating Ninja Temple, Myoryuji, complete with booby-traps, hidden passageways and trapdoors. Tokyo by night (Evening Tour) Japan’s pulsing capital – one of the largest cities in the world is a stimulating beast at any time, but it is particularly thrilling after dark. Led by a Tokyo based Belgian who has made it his life’s work to explore the myriad crannies of the city, this tour lifts the lid on one of the world’s most sensory hubs.

Enriching encounters with the locals are a large part of what makes Myanmar so special. And experiences don’t come much more immersive than exploring the gorgeous Shan State. Sharing borders with three of Myanmar’s equally beguiling neighbors; China, Thailand and Laos, the northeast Shan State is a mystical tapestry of lush jungle landscapes, rushing rivers and intriguing indigenous culture; a prime example of the country’s wondrous natural surroundings and awe-inspiring landscape. Inle Lake Cultural Kayaking – Pristine Southern Inle (Half Day) Inle Lake, the placid expanse of fresh water high in the uplands of the Shan State offers guests ample natural splendor. Paddling through the southern villages of Nampan, Mine Pyo and Se Sone in a small kayak allows guests to get up close and personal with the area’s rich tribal tapestry. Visit a local cigar manufacturer, marvel at the one-legged rowing ﬁsherman and stop by a local Inthar house. www.exotravel.com/trade

INDONESIA Coffee, Vistas and Culture (Full Day) Best known for its fabled breaks, opulent resorts, and internationalclass restaurants, many visitors to Bali barely even scratch the surface of the island’s magical tapestry of temple ceremonies and vivid-green terraces. Go beyond the standard affair and witness what are arguably the most beautiful rice terraces in Bali on route to visiting a picturesque coffee plantation, Lake Batur and Kehen Temple. Discover the Spirit of Bali Unveiling the spiritual side of Indonesia, this tour offers the chance to partake in a number of healing and cleansing experiences unique to the country. The day offers a meeting with a local shaman for a private consultation, and a sacred cleansing bath in the fresh waters of the holy springs set within the temple of Tirta Empul. After a lunch within a beautifully scenic setting, a visit will be paid to the enchanting temple of Puru Gunung Kawi.

CAMBODIA Vespa Countryside Life Tour – Siem Reap Riding on the back of an iconic Vespa scooter makes for a tour like no other. This incredible morning escapade whips guests off to the most authentic, exciting experience available in the surroundings of Siem Reap. Trading the tourist traps for the Cambodian countryside, unearth the splendor of these striking environments and local communities, and discover the true Cambodian story away from the temples. Street Food of Siem Reap The Cambodian culinary experience can be a fun, exotic and incredibly unique, especially if you know where to go. This tour will take you away from the tourist areas to where the locals eat, sampling local markets, street food stalls and hard to ﬁnd restaurants. Not as well-known as neighboring countries, Cambodia has a great variety of national dishes and your guide will expand on the history and eating etiquette of these local delicacies.

CHINA Landscapes of Hainan Island (7 Days / 6 Nights) An unlikely candidate for travelers searching for the next blissful beach getaway, China’s largest island, and little known secret, Hainan, offers a fantastic mix of beautiful beaches, tropical rainforests, and mountains brimming with ancient Chinese mythology. Whether rafting down the Wuzhishan Canyon or peacefully exploring the stunning Jianfengling Nature Reserve, there is plenty on offer in this tropical island escape. Sichuan Province: Chinese & Tibetan Buddhism (11 Days / 10 Nights) Take a spiritual journey into the heart of China’s Buddhism on this immersive 11-day adventure. In the vast and culturally rich Sichuan province, ancient archaeological sites and the preserved temples of Chengdu city lie dormant, and the fascinating history of the region awaits discovery. As Tibet draws closer, so too does its ancient towns and monasteries that lie nestled among hills, grasslands, valleys and glaciers. www.exotravel.com/trade

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ADVENTURE The Rise & Rise of Adventure Travel

he travel industry is a deeply competitive business with a multitude of strands to suit the varying tastes of clients. However, it is impossible to ignore the remarkable growth in demand for adventure.

In 2014, a report by the Adventure Travel Trade Association (ATTA) revealed that the adventure tourism sector has become a $263billion dollar market, growing an average 65% annually since 2009.

inescapable aura of exoticism, Asia is made for adventure. Whether it’s rafting down a roaring river, trekking to reach a summit for sunrise, or taking a leisurely kayak around the limestone karst-studded seascapes of Halong Bay in Vietnam or Krabi in Thailand, it is a travel destination with enough visceral options to satisfy even the most energetic explorer.

Early foreign adventurers in the region earned their stripes through discovery of lost civilizations, unique cultural fabrics and timeless ways of life. These days it is difficult to be So what exactly is adventure tourism? quite so pioneering. Nevertheless, After all, isn’t all travel an adventure thrills such as scaling towering of some sort? The ATTA defines limestone cliffs or trekking through adventure tourism as a trip that; jungles and diving into crystal-clear pools provide an equally potent shot “includes at least two of three of adrenaline. Put simply, for travel elements: physical activity, natural experiences that are as active as they environment and cultural immersion.” are inspiring, Asia is difficult to match.

Emerging markets are outpacing developed economies. A report released in 2014 by the United Nations World Tourism Authority predicted that, during 2015, arrivals in emerging economies would exceed that of advanced economies and by 2030, 57% of all arrivals will be in emerging economies. This is thanks to rapid growth in in certain markets, especially Asia (UNWTO, 2014).

EXO Adventure has identiﬁed the unquenchable appetite for adventure tourism and has the capacity and expertise to design and tailor trips in Asia that are guaranteed to thrill, amaze, and inspire awe.

EXO Adventure is a specialist in hiking, cycling and multi-activity itineraries, encouraging accidental encounters and exploration. Being part of EXO Travel gives EXO Asia & Adventure: A Match Made in Adventure a two-fold advantage. Heaven As well as being able to function With its contrasting landscapes, independently and nimbly as a small diverse anthropological make-up and operator, it can provide the cost

advantages of a large destination management company. Dedicated local adventure teams in each destination oversee each trip from ﬁeld research to handling clients on the ground and day-to-day operations. And, in order to exceed the expectations of clients, each team works closely together to ensure a consistent trip quality across multiple destinations. “It is not so surprising that Adventure travel is rapidly growing,” comments Holly Richter, Director of Adventure at EXO Adventure. “With global, immediate access to information, I feel each of us is looking for different ways to travel. We search for something new, something unique, surprising – but now, in addition we look for ways to un-plug, reconnect to something larger, push ourselves out of our comfort zones, or try something out of the ordinary. Asia is full of unexpected experiences mixed with remote destinations to step back from the rapid pace of life.” Explore Our Asia With vast tracts of unspoiled nature sidling up to volcanic mountain ranges, Indonesia is one of Asia’s best destinations for trekking. Among the archipelago’s many climbable peaks, Mount Rinjani on the holiday island of Lombok is among the most accessible.

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iking up rugged peaks for breathtaking views, sweeping descents and epic out-of-the-saddle climbs to explore ancient seats of power. Listening to the sounds of deep tropical forests whilst taking time out to sip traditional tea with hill tribe families. With all these exhilarating and rejuvenating activities and many more besides in its locker, it is little wonder that adventure tourism in Asia is on such a meteoric rise.

Mount Agung, Bali, Indonesia

he mountain, the second-highest volcano in Indonesia, is certainly no pushover, but its huge 50 kilometer caldera and Crater Lake are well worth expending the effort for. For those seeking some easier trekking while visiting remote villages, Laos, Vietnam, Cambodia, Myanmar, and Thailand all have stunning scenery alongside unique cultural experiences. In collaboration with the local Karen community in Thailand, we have developed a trek to unnamed waterfalls, through stances of Bamboo pine forests, and moss covered wetlands. This is an area overlooked by many travelers because it is in the shadow of Thailand’s highest peak, but it is easily accessible from Chiang Mai and well worth the journey.

the capital city Hanoi give way to undulating countryside, small timeless villages, and sweeping lavish landscapes near the town of Ninh Binh. Over in Cambodia, the utilization of pedal power reaches a mind-blowing peak on a multi-day voyage around some of the country’s most arresting cultural and lessvisited sites. Kicking off in Siem Riep, the adventure takes in the famous temples at Angkor. Peddle through 1,000 year old city gates, past crumbling temples of the recently discovered Beng Mealea Temple and the expansive ancient fort of Preah Vihear, a magniﬁcent hill temple on Cambodia’s northern border with Thailand.

compact timeframe, leaving plenty of scope for more leisurely enjoyment of the region. For more information on adventure experiences email adventure@exotravel.com

For those seeking something on an even more epic scale, there is plenty of scope in Southeast Asia to undertake multi-country adventures. One such itinerary takes place in Myanmar, Asia is also well known as a cyclist’s paradise, and has become the training Thailand and Laos where the journey kicks off in Burma’s former capital ground for national cycling teams, Yangon before heading deep into the pro, and semi-pro racers. It is not Golden Triangle of Burma, to unusual to spot a retired Tour de France racer in the northern Thailand experience the diversity of people and ancestral traditions. Trek, cycle hills. One reason for this is the and kayak to explore this remote climate. It is ideal for cycling all year region, before diverting down the round. The terrain is another reason mighty Mekong River to Luang cycling is so popular, with steep Prabang, the former royal capital of climbs, winding descents, and Laos. Adventure activities needn’t eat meandering river valleys, ideal for up a sizeable chunk of an itinerary cyclists of any ability. either. Day hikes or cycle trips are easily arranged while other activities One of the more unique routes in the such as zip-lining, caving, diving or region is in the Red River Delta in skiing can also be simply done in a North Vietnam where the suburbs of www.exotravel.com/trade

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With global, immediate access to information, I feel each of us is looking for different ways to travel. We search for something new, something unique, surprising – but now, in addition we look for ways to un-plug, reconnect to something larger Holly Richter

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EXO Adventure, Director

Song River, Vang Vieng, Laos www.exotravel.com/trade

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The focus is on connective experiences that educate guests and reveal China’s ancient civilization through participation and engagement

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Wuzhen, China

CHINA: A LOOK

BACK TO

FUTURE

THE

It is almost impossible to overstate the sheer scope and variety that China offers travellers. From space age architecture, teeming ultra-modern cities and state-of-the-art high-speed trains to towering mountain ranges, empty deserts and isolated rural communities that have witnessed little in the way of change for centuries, this vast country provides a stirring blend of the ancient and the contemporary. www.exotravel.com/trade

he nation’s gargantuan size and

multifaceted personality, therefore, ensure that there’s something for everyone, whether their tastes range across the board or are limited to single interests such as history, food or sightseeing. Most visitors opt–at least on their ﬁrst time in the country–to peruse well-known hits. But, as the world’s oldest continuous civilisation, the Middle Kingdom is amply stocked with less obvious but equally thrilling adventures. The capital, Beijing, may have modernised intensively over the past decade or two but sights such as the Forbidden City–the largest palace complex in the world–retain their exotic allure. While Beijing (despite extensive modernisation) takes great pride in being one of the strongholds of traditional Chinese culture, other megacities such as Shanghai and Guangzhou showcase the country’s most contemporary side. Hong Kong too is a beguiling melange of old and new with vestiges of British colonialism thrown into the mix to create a destination that is completely unique. China’s amazing landscapes also retain an aura of venerable majesty. It is impossible not to summon up images of Genghis Khan and his Mongol hordes when taking to horseback on the epic grasslands of Inner Mongolia. Equally evocative are the fairy-tale karst pinnacles of Yangshuo, the vast open spaces of the Tibetan plateau and riverine wonders such as the Yangtze River and Tiger Leaping Gorge, renowned for cruising and hiking respectively. China, however, is not just about history and legendary

sights. In fact, China’s National Tourist Office has been very much focused on broadening the country’s appeal by promoting attractions such as modern architecture, art and design and world class shopping that encapsulate the new face of the nation. An emphasis is also being put on the country’s options for ‘soft adventure’, which includes trekking and cycling. Furthermore many of these options are available in or near some of China’s main cities and resort areas meaning that contemporary dining options, sleek hotels and other creature comforts are always at hand. Interest in China is certainly growing. According to official figures, in 2014 nearly 4million tourists visited China and growth is certain to continue in the wake of new drives to attract visitors, such as the ‘Visa Free’ options that are now available in many cities. EXO China adds a new dimension to travel in the region, broadening the range of services provided while introducing an enticing selection of programs to explore its provinces, five autonomous regions and four municipalities. What’s more, EXO China also explore the special administrative regions of Hong Kong and Macau. EXO’s aim has always been to create programs for those exploring China to uncover traditions and cultural facets of the country that many visitors regularly miss out on through a standard tour. Each program engages with locals and provides a deep connection for travellers. The focus is on connective experiences that educate guests and reveal China’s ancient civilization through participation and engagement with the country’s people and its incredible landscapes. www.exotravel.com/trade

EXPERIENCE OUR CHINA EXO China explores the country via a number of themes, venturing into lesser known areas and connecting regions across the country. Excursions encompass classical China, the arts, architecture as well as the vast number of ethnic groups that enrich the nation. So, whether you are seeking one of the country’s signature widescreen experiences or something more contemporary, there has never been a better time to visit the Middle Kingdom. We caught up with Olivier Marchesin for a quick chat about EXO China's journey so far, and what he sees for the future of the destination.

livier Marchesin is the Managing Director for EXO China and along with Susan Wong the General Manager, has been there since the creation of EXO China in 2011. Settling into a small ofﬁce in Beijing, they were able to secure the authorisation to operate within China. Fast forward to 2015 and EXO China now houses 27 people divided between 2 ofﬁces, one in Beijing, and one in China's Canton province, with great views over the river. What makes EXO different from other DMC’s? What makes us different from other DMC’s is our approach. We have a real focus on training and developing exciting and different experiences, and most importantly ensuring the staff feel that they are key to our success. Our training is focused on the customer’s perspective and helping our staff to appreciate what experiences, hotels and travel options our customers would like. Yes we’re always looking for the best rates, but our philosophy is based on creating the best experiences for our clients.

What inspires you to do things differently? We believe that in every region, we can go much deeper in both a social context but also with the overall experience. Living in China we can develop relationships within the regions we operate in and these relationships provide the truly authentic experience that people are looking for. One of the latest programs our product team created that really excited me was a tour about Tibetan Sichuan. When I read the program for the ﬁrst time, I immediately wanted to experience it myself! What excites you about the future for EXO China? What we’re seeing now is clients venturing away from the classic sites like the Great Wall and into lesser known but equally amazing locations. There’s always going to be a place for traditional trips, but we can see possibilities in these lesser known areas that will blow the minds of our clients! The countrywide transportation infrastructure is rapidly improving with the likes of the high speed train development, and airport expansions servicing both domestic and international ﬂights. This opens up more of the country to every market. Offering China by region is very exciting. Most of our competitors scratch the surface of what China has to offer, but every region is so different from each other; different climates, different foods, landscapes, languages, history. It’s so exiting to have clients who come once to see Beijing and then want to come back to discover Yunnan, Sichuan or Tibet, and why not later Hunan or Guangdong. Our team is now established and we feel that we’re really creating something special. It’s an exciting place to be! The possibilities are endless and we’re ready to grasp them with both hands! For more information on EXO China experiences email china@exotravel.com

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Nestled in Calm atmosphere surrounded by a lush of tropical garden blends of the finest Khmer and Simi-French Colonial design

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TAKE 5

KIM MARTIN RASMUSSEN P r o d u c t M a n a g e r , E X O T r a v e l T ha i l a nd

Tell us a little about your new role with EXO Travel Thailand? The fun part of my role is to seek out and design new and exciting tours and locations for EXO Thailand. Many of Thailand’s main sights can be enriched with a special touch to enhance the cultural signiﬁcance of the tour, for example, discovering the chanting at Wat Pho in the early morning hours is a beautiful addition to any visit to the temple. The other challenging part of the role is keeping track of, and selecting which hotels and excursions we prefer to recommend to our clients in order to offer them the best experiences, whilst keeping our product offering new and inventive.

2 What is the most memorable Asian destination you have visited and why? It’s a tough decision, but the most memorable experience would be between Myanmar, Nepal or Japan. In Myanmar I felt so welcomed by the locals and I was fortunate enough to go there before it really boomed with tourism. Nepal was incredible with all its snow-capped mountains and sleeping in minus 30 degrees at Everest base camp was a truly amazing experience. In Japan I was surprised about how well the country worked and how unique the culture was with geishas, ninjas, and samurais, as well as Onsen, fascinating temples (and toilets!), and going 350 km/h on board the Shinkansen train; you name it, Japan had it! 3 You've lived and worked in Thailand for many years, what's the allure for you? Thailand simply has it all… Astonishing beaches, beautiful mountains, great food and happy people. One thing that never fails to amaze me here is the possibility of going to a 5 star resort with world-class service to sip a cocktail, and next moment ﬁnd yourself sitting across the street at a local street vendor mingling with the locals. The contrasts in this

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Thailand simply has it all… Astonishing beaches, beautiful mountains, great food and happy people

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country are really special. Where else in the world can you find a place to eat 24 hrs a day? In Thailand there is always a restaurant or street food stall where you can enjoy the local flavors without checking your watch. 4 Asia remains an ever popular destination for travelers the world over. What sets it apart for you? The people and the differences in culture are a huge draw, as well as the pristine natural settings and sights that can be visited. The local people are extremely friendly and when you begin to interact with them you really discover how warm-hearted they can be. There is also the culture shock that you get when coming to Asia for your first time. Everything is so different from what you might be used to in your home country. The pace, the noise, the smells, it’s all playing with your senses no matter where you go. Asia is also still very affordable, so you can enjoy staying at 5 star resorts without breaking the bank.

5 Where will your next adventure in Asia take you? As I live to explore new destinations, my next journey will take me to a place that I haven’t yet been. I daydream about Sulawesi in Indonesia, I have heard that it is absolutely amazing, with world-class diving, sandy beaches and the Tana Toraja people. Another place that I would really like to visit is Zhangjiajie National Forest Park in China, the landscape is supposed to look like it was taken right out of the movie Avatar.

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