IBA Far East Brochure 2012 by Geoff Johnson Design

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FAR EAST 2012

T H E B E S T O F T H E FA R E A S T TA I L O R - M A D E

Telephone 01423 704118

www.inspiredbyasia.co.uk

INSPIRED BY ASIA

Southfield, Station Parade, Harrogate, North Yorkshire HG1 1HB

T H E B E S T O F T H E FA R E A S T TA I L O R - M A D E

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T H E B E S T O F T H E FA R E A S T TA I L O R - M A D E

Southfield, Station Parade, Harrogate, North Yorkshire HG1 1HB

Telephone 01423 704118

www.inspiredbyasia.co.uk

Brochure designed by Andrew Bogle. Printed by Focus Print Management.

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INTRODUCTION 6 7 8 9

About Inspired by Asia Using the brochure Map of the Far East Your choice of Airlines

THAILAND

13 14 16 20 22 24 26 28 32 36 42 44 46 49 50 51 52 54

About Thailand The Best of Thailand Tour Bangkok Chiang Mai Chiang Rai & the Golden Triangle The Best of North Thailand Tour Eastern and Oriental Express Hua Hin Koh Samui Phuket & Khao Lak Khao Sok National Park Koh Lanta Krabi Phi Phi Islands Koh Chang Koh Phangan Koh Samet Koh Yao

56 59 60 62 64 66 68 72 76 79 82

MALAYSIA About Malaysia The Best of Malaysia Self Drive Kuala Lumpur Beyond Kuala Lumpur Tours Penang Langkawi East Coast Malaysia Borneo Borneo Tours Pangkor

BALI

87 88 92 93

About Bali Bali Ubud & Lombok Hotels The Best of Bali Tour

INDOCHINA

97 98 99 100

About Indochina The Best of Indochina Tour The Best of Vietnam Tour Northern Thailand & Laos Cruise

101 102 104 105 106 108 110 111 112 114

Saigon to Angkor Wat Cruise Hanoi Beyond Hanoi Tours Halong Bay Overnight Cruises Hoi An and Hue Saigon Beyond Saigon Tours Island Resorts of Vietnam Angkor Wat Luang Prabang

116

CHINA

119 120 122

About China China Tours Hong Kong

124

SINGAPORE

126

JAPAN

127

The Best of Japan Tour

128

KOREA

129

The Best of Korea Tour

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INSPIRED BY ASIA

We are real experts in Far East holidays When it comes to choosing and planning your Far East holiday, you need to deal with people who know the destination inside out. At Inspired by Asia we have the in-depth expertise that makes all the difference. Our team has travelled extensively throughout the region to ensure you can receive first-hand advice, suggestions and tips from those who really have “been there and done that.”

We can tailor-make your holiday exactly to suit you Our brochure contains a wealth of possibilities, but don’t feel you need to limit your choice to what we feature, because everything is flexible - that’s the beauty of our tailor-made service. Simply tell us where you’d like to go, and what you’d like to do, and we’ll make it happen. Alternatively, if you can’t decide or if you’d like us to help you out with ideas and inspiration - then we’ll be happy to oblige.

We’ll offer support throughout your holiday Our service doesn’t end once you’ve left for your holiday, because we’ll be there for you, if we’re needed, throughout your stay. Should anything go wrong, you’ll have the peace of mind to know that we’ll be rapidly contactable, via our local representative or via your travel agent, to put things right.

We can organise all your flights All of our holidays begin and end with a flight. So it’s vital that all the arrangements work and that the airline matches or exceeds your expectations. Inspired by Asia only work with quality scheduled airlines with a proven record in customer satisfaction and the flexibility to cope with complex or unusual itineraries.

We are fully bonded to give you peace of mind You can rest assured that the air holidays and flights in this brochure are ATOL protected by the Civil Aviation Authority under ATOL 2949, and for holidays which do not include air travel, your financial protection is administered by ABTA number 60675/V8887.

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USING YOUR INSPIRED BY ASIA BROCHURE

Hotel ratings Each country has its own method for rating a hotel, making it difficult to provide a consistent classification. Therefore we have rated the hotels ourselves. This is based on our personal hotel inspections and the advice of our locallybased representatives. We have only chosen what we consider to be four and five star properties, ranging from hotels that can be described as good value for money with superior standards, to world-class, luxurious resorts of the highest quality.

Hotel refurbishments and renovations Every hotel will, from time to time, have to take steps to maintain its rooms and facilities. We will do our utmost to bring any such work due to take place, to your attention, as soon as we are notified.

Hotel special offers The Far East is a great region for a special offer. During low and shoulder seasons we have negotiated some exciting deals, such as free nights and free room upgrades, with many shown throughout this brochure. We receive new offers during the year; see our website www.inspiredbyasia.co.uk for the very latest.

INSPIRED BY ASIA

Special requests If you have dietary requirements, a disability we need to be aware of, or simply have a preference such as a low-floor room, please let us know at the time of booking. We will pass on your requirements to the relevant hotels and tour companies.

Passports, visas and health Most destinations require that you have at least six months remaining on your full passport and, if required a visa. For vaccination requirements or recommendations please contact your doctor. It is your responsibility to satisfy these requirements.

Weddings and honeymoons We can arrange your wedding in the Far East. There are some superb locations and resorts to choose from. Using the hotelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s own wedding planner and our local representative, we can check every detail to make it a perfect event. Most of the hotels featured have honeymoon offers, too many to list here. Please call us for further details.

Flights Prices in this brochure do not include flights, unless specifically stated in the inclusions of some touring products. We are specialists in organising flights to fit in with tailor-made itineraries and can secure some exceptional deals with many of the leading carriers to the Far East. While many people these days prefer to book their own flights online, we do warn clients that tickets bought this way can be inflexible if you need to make changes. Booking you flights through Inspired by Asia is likely to prove a cheaper and far more flexible option.

Airport transfers Where possible, we have provided private transfers for you. This means that when you arrive at the airport you will be met by our local representative and transferred directly to your accommodation.

Insurance It is essential that you have adequate travel insurance, and we strongly recommend that you arrange this with your travel agent, at the time of booking.

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S EA O F N O RTH K O R EA

Beijing

J A PA N

Seoul

J A PA N

SO U TH K O REA

Tokyo Kyoto

CHINA Shanghai

EAST CHINA SEA

Guilin

Hong Kong

PA C I F I C OCEAN

BURMA Luang Prabang Chiang Rai

SOUTH

Hanoi

CHINA

LAOS

SEA Chiang Mai Hue Hoi An

THAILAND Bangkok

Siem Reap

CAMBODIA GUL F OF T HAI L AND ANDAMAN

VIETNAM

Phnom Penh

Nha Trang Saigon

Koh Samui

SEA Phuket Langkawi

Kota Kinabalu

Penang

BR U N EI

M A L AY S I A

SA BA H

Kuala Lumpur Kuching

SA RAWA K

Singapore

BORNEO

I NDONE S I A

Jakarta

B A LI

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YOUR CHOICE OF AIRLINES

Celebrating over 50 years of service, Thai Airways International operates Award-winning Emirates is one of the fastest growing

twice daily direct services from London to Bangkok, with convenient

airlines in the world. Emirates operates 14 daily flights

connections from Bangkok to over 70 destinations worldwide - including

from 6 UK airports; Heathrow, Gatwick, Manchester,

over 10 in Thailand. This year the airlineâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

Newcastle, Birmingham, and Glasgow. With such an

fleet will be further enhanced with the

extensive network, it's easy to combine Dubai with a

delivery of six state-of-the-art A380 aircraft.

host of other destinations around the world for an unforgettable travel experience.

Malaysia Airlines, the national carrier of Malaysia, is recognised as one of Asia's largest, flying more than 50,000 passengers to some 100 destinations across 6 continents every day. It currently offers 14 weekly direct Boeing 747-400 flights between the United Kingdom and Malaysia linking London with the Malaysian capital, Kuala Lumpur.

Singapore Airlines has evolved into one of the most respected travel brands around the world. They have one of the world's youngest fleet in the air and a network spanning five continents. With daily flights from London Heathrow and Manchester and easy connections at Singaporeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s superb Changi airport, Singapore Airlines takes you to the heart of the Far East. In 2011 Vietnam Airlines launched their new service from London Gatwick with direct flights to Hanoi and Saigon. Many travellers choose to fly into Hanoi and out of Saigon allowing them to explore this fascinating country. Vietnam Airlines have an extensive network of domestic flights throughout the country.

INSPIRED BY ASIA

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THAILAND

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THAILAND

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THAILAND Thailand is an enchanting country with a rich cultural tradition, where the people are warm and friendly and the scenery is often breathtaking. This is a land of ancient temples, tantalising cuisine, pristine beaches and tropical rainforests. From elephant camps to world class resorts, Thailand has something for everyone.

Getting there There are over 30 direct flights weekly from the UK to Thailand, including Thai Airways, EVA Air and Qantas Airways. There are also many indirect flights via Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Singapore with airlines such as Emirates, Etihad Airways and Singapore Airlines. The flying time is generally around 12 hours.

When to go Most visitors arrive during Thailand’s dry season, from November through February. The weather during this period is pleasantly warm and sunny, though airline and hotel prices reflect this and are higher than at other times of the year. April and May are usually the hottest months (though Thailand is never cold at any time during the year) when temperatures will be in the low to mid 30°C. May to October is generally considered to be low season as rainfall is high, though there is always sunshine between the downpours. Bear in mind that Thailand’s two most popular resorts, Phuket and Koh Samui, have differing rainy seasons. The best time to go to Phuket (in the west) is from November to March, while Koh Samui (in the Gulf of Thailand), is at its best during June to September.

Chiang Rai Chiang Mai

THAILAND

Guide to the country BANGKOK Almost all visitors will include a stop in ★ Bangkok, at the start or end of their Thailand Pattaya Cha-am holiday, and for good reason. Bangkok is an Hua Hin exciting city of bustling streets and markets, Koh Samet historic sights such as the Grand Palace, G U LF chic bars and restaurants and boat trips on A N D A MA N OF SEA the Chao Phraya River. Five hundred miles TH A ILA N D to the north lies Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai Koh Samui and the beautiful mountain scenery of Krabi Northern Thailand, linked with so much Phi Phi history. The sandy beaches of Pattaya and Phuket Hua Hin continue to increase in popularity, as road links with Bangkok improve making Important to note them easier to reach. The islands of Thailand British passport holders don’t need a visa have always been popular, with dramatic unless staying for more than 30 days and views and great beaches. Choose from a superb range of islands, the passport has at least six months validity. Thailand is 7 hours from established ones such as Phuket and Koh Samui to some ahead of GMT. The currency is Thai Baht. Vaccinations are only a newly discovered paradises such as Koh Phangan. Krabi features requirement if you are travelling close to the border of Burma, or if the rocky outcrop scenery seen in so many films, and the quiet but you are exploring deep into the jungle. For full details of vaccination tranquil Khao Lak, just north of Phuket continues to delight visitors. requirements contact your doctor.

THAILAND AVERAGE MONTHLY TEMPERATURES AND RAINFALL (Temperatures in °Centigrade, Rainfall in millimetres) Jan Bangkok Chiang Mai Koh Samui Phuket Hua Hin Koh Samet

°C 26 21 24 27 26 32

R 11 8 163 36 4 14

INSPIRED BY ASIA

Feb °C 28 23 25 28 27 33

R 28 6 37 38 14 34

Mar °C 29 26 25 29 28 34

R 31 15 50 74 16 42

Apr °C 30 29 28 29 30 35

R 72 45 88 127 26 67

May °C 30 29 27 28 30 34

R 189 153 151 297 118 148

Jun °C 29 28 27 28 30 33

R 152 136 76 264 71 140

Jul °C 29 27 27 28 29 32

R 158 167 126 216 104 137

Aug °C 28 27 27 28 29 32

R 188 227 103 244 81 109

Sep °C 28 27 26 28 28 32

R 320 251 102 328 82 229

Oct °C 28 26 26 28 28 32

R 231 132 228 315 201 145

Nov °C 27 24 26 27 27 32

R 57 44 432 193 202 32

Dec °C R 26 9 22 15 25 227 27 79 25 7 31 5

THAILAND

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THE BEST OF THAILAND 15 Day Private Tour

Experience the best that Thailand has to offer. Feel a part of the hustle and bustle of Bangkok, witness the serenity and beauty of Chiang Mai and the north, and finally relax on the sandy beaches of Phuket in the south. This is a private tour so you won’t be travelling in a group. Choice of 4-star standard or 5-star superior accommodation. An Englishspeaking guide is provided. Departs daily. Flights not included.

Chiang Mai

THAILAND BANGKOK

★

Day 1 Arrive Bangkok You will be met on arrival at Bangkok Airport and transferred to your chosen accommodation (Standard: The Bel-Aire Princess; Superior: The Millennium Hilton.) Day 2 City and Temples Tour A perfect introduction to Bangkok. Enjoy a half-day tour that includes three of the top temples in Bangkok. Even if you don’t experience any more of Bangkok’s 400 temples, you’ll have seen the pick of them. Departs daily at approximately 8.30am or 1pm. Day 3 Bangkok at leisure A full day at your leisure in Bangkok. Consider adding a Klongs (Canal) and Grand Palace Tour from just £51 or a Floating Market and Rose Garden Tour from £71. Day 4 Bangkok to Chiang Mai Morning at your leisure before your transfer to Bangkok Airport for your flight to Chiang Mai (not included). You will be met on arrival at Chiang Mai and transferred to your chosen accommodation (Standard: Kantary Hills Hotel; Superior: The Chedi.) The rest of the day at leisure.

Superior: Katathani, in a Junior Suite). Day 5 City Tour of Chiang Mai A half-day tour to see the famous city temples of Chiang Mai. Departs daily at either approximately 8.30am returning 12.30pm, or 1.30pm returning 5pm. Day 6 Chiang Mai at leisure Enjoy the facilities of your hotel or time in the city. Alternatively, we can pre-book an elephant ride through the jungle from £69 or a visit to the Long Neck Karen Hill Tribe from £101.

Phuket

THAILAND

not included). You will be met on arrival at your chosen destination and transferred to your accommodation (Standard: Cape Panwa;

Day 7 Chiang Mai to Phuket Transfer to Chiang Mai Airport for your flight to Phuket (flight

Days 8 - 14 Phuket at leisure A week on the beach in Phuket. Enjoy the facilities of your hotel and the beautiful beaches of Phuket. Day 15 Depart Phuket Time at your leisure before your transfer to the airport and flight to Bangkok (not included) to complete your itinerary. Prices from £549 per person, based on standard 4 star hotels. From £799 per person, based on 5 star hotels.

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THAILAND

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BANGKOK Travel Bangkok’s new Suvarnabhumi Airport is served by numerous International airlines. The airport is 16 miles from the city, with a journey time of between 45-60 minutes, depending on the time of day. We can arrange for you to be met on arrival at the airport and a private car transfer to your hotel from £19 per person. (canals) and floating market. Dinner on an outside deck of a cruise on the Chao Phraya River is a relaxing way to see the city skyline and riverside activity. Further afield we offer tours to the infamous River Kwai and historic ancient city of Ayuthaya.

Bangkok is notorious for traffic gridlock so we recommend visitors utilise the new Skyrail monorail. The more adventurous can sample a ‘tuk-tuk’, the three wheeled street cab, but always agree the fare first.

When to go Bangkok is hot all year round with temperatures averaging around 30-35°C. The best time to visit is between December and January when it’s slightly cooler and drier. The wet season is from May to October, coinciding with the hottest time of the year.

Attractions No visitor should miss a visit to the Grand Palace and the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, or a trip on the klongs

Bangkok is like no other city in the world,

Dusit Zoo King Chulalongkorn Statue

a discovery for even the most seasoned National Gallery

of travellers. Ancient golden temples,

National Museum

mystical pagodas, saffron-robed monks, air markets. You can explore the city

3 6

Wat Arun

sights by river bus or tuk-tuk, browse

Chao

Ph ray a

ver Ri

for bargains at the local markets, marvel at the Grand Palace and sample the

Suanpakkard Palace

Grand Palace

towering skyscrapers and bustling open-

King Taksin Statue

colourful nightlife.

BANGKOK 1

THAILAND

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BANGKOK Hotels

★★★★★

THE PENINSULA BANGKOK

SHANGRI-LA HOTEL BANGKOK

The Peninsula Bangkok occupies a world of its own on the banks of the Chao Phraya River. The ingenious w-shaped design, which ensures stunning river views from all rooms, has become a landmark, a classic of modern Bangkok architecture. Rooms are spacious and range from Deluxe rooms to those with an outside balcony to opulent suites. Facilities include 4 restaurants, a bar, swimming pool, fitness centre, tennis and spa. There is a free shuttle to cross the river to the skytrain station.

With lush gardens and sweeping river views, the Shangri-La Hotel Bangkok offers an elegant and exotic location on the banks of the Chao Phraya River. This award-winning hotel, consistently voted as one of the best in the world, has recently undergone an extensive renovation to maintain its high standards. For accommodation there is a choice of two wings including the exclusive Krungthep Wing. Facilities include CHI, the spa, outdoor pool, gym, sauna, 3 bars, dinner cruise and 4 restaurants.

Offer Free breakfast when staying 3 nights or more 1 Apr - 31 Oct 12.

Offer Free breakfast when staying 3 nights or more, 1 Apr – 31 Oct 12.

Prices from £98 per person per night, based on room only.

Prices from £71 per person per night, based on room only.

★★★★★

CENTARA GRAND AT CENTRAL WORLD

MILLENNIUM HILTON BANGKOK

The new five-star Centara Grand At Central World offers a superb central location with the Siam and Chidlom BTS Stations just a 10 minute walk away. Nearby you’ll find Lumpini Park and the Suan-Lum Night Bazaar together with an excellent range of shopping options. Hotel facilities include nine bars and restaurants, a spa, fitness centre, sauna, jacuzzi, tennis courts, whirlpool and an outdoor swimming pool including the rooftop bar and restaurant offering stunning city views.

Towering majestically above the Chao Phraya River, the new and stylish Millennium Hilton Bangkok boasts sweeping city and river views from all rooms. Enjoy the spa, gym and infinity pool with its unique white sandy beach. There is a choice of eight restaurants and bars including the spectacular rooftop ThreeSixty Bar. Watch the city go by while sipping on a cocktail from this iconic Bangkok bar. There is a private pier and the hotel’s own free shuttle boat to take you to other parts of the city.

Offer 3 nights for the price of 2 nights, dates vary. Call for details.

Offer Free breakfast when staying 2 nights or more 1 Jan 12 – 31 Mar 13.

Prices from £57 per person per night, including breakfast daily.

Prices from £53 per person per night, based on room only.

INSPIRED BY ASIA

THAILAND

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BANGKOK Hotels

★★★★★

★★★★

ANANTARA BANGKOK RIVERSIDE RESORT

SHAMA SUKHUMVIT

With its classical Thai architecture, lush gardens and cool river breezes the Anantara Bangkok Riverside Resort & Spa offers all the tranquility of a resort. Enjoy the wonderful river frontage with fragrant gardens. Take the free hotel shuttle boat across the river to the nearest Skytrain station for access to the city. Rooms offer great garden or river views from a private balcony. Facilities include a wide choice of restaurants and bars, an outdoor swimming pool, jacuzzi, sauna, tennis, fitness centre and spa.

Shama Sukhumvit offers 90 contemporary designed service apartments located in a presitigious residential area amongst fashionable restaurants, stylish shopping and with a skytrain station nearby. Ideal for families or couples alike. Facilities include a clubhouse, tropical garden with BBQ facilities, rooftop outdoor swimming pool, fitness centre and kids’ pool, and indoor play area. Choose from 1 and 2 bedroom Premier apartments including a private balcony.

Offer Free breakfast for 3 night stays. Offer dates vary, call for details.

Offer Receive a 5% discount when staying 5 nights. Year round.

Prices from £48 per person per night, based on room only.

Prices from £45 per person per night including breakfast daily.

★★★★★

★★★★

DUSIT THANI BANGKOK

BEL-AIRE PRINCESS HOTEL

Ideally located in the heart of Bangkok, the luxurious Dusit Thani sits opposite Lumpini Park with its broad boulevards and expanse of lakes. Adjacent to both the sky train and subway system. All of the 517 rooms and suites feature distinctive Thai inspirations and state-of-the-art facilities including free WiFi. Guests will enjoy the large outdoor swimming pool and sundeck, landscaped garden, spa, golf driving range, fitness centre and a choice of 3 bars and 8 restaurants.

The Bel-Aire Princess Hotel is a smart contemporary, boutique-style hotel nestled in a quiet street just off bustling Sukhumvit Road; home to the city’s best shopping and entertainment districts. It’s just a short walk to the Skytrain and underground transport system. Offering superb value for money the rooms are chic, modern and spacious. Facilities include a restaurant, bar, an outdoor swimming pool and gym. And for something different, try the hotel’s Thai cooking classes (pre-bookable. Fee).

Offer Receive 3 nights for the price of 2 nights, 1 Apr – 31 Oct 12.

Offer Receive 4 nights for the price of 3 nights, year round.

Prices from £45 per person per night, based on room only.

Prices from £28 per person per night, room only.

THAILAND

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BEYOND BANGKOK Tours

2-DAY LUXURY RICE BARGE CRUISE

3-DAY RIVER KWAI TOUR

Take an enchanting cruise along the historical Chao Phraya River, cruising between Bangkok and the ancient capital of Ayuthaya, staying overnight alongside a traditional Buddhist temple. Once a rice barge, this exotic boat is now a floating, boutique hotel. View life along the river side in luxurious style. Upstream cruise departs Bangkok every Tuesday and Thursday. Note this cruise is available starting or finishing in Bangkok.

Explore the historic sights of the River Kwai region on this three day tour. The scenery is impressive with jungle-covered hills, spectacular gorges and beautiful river views. Stay in style at the luxury tented camp at Hintock. Choice of taking this tour with a group or privately.

Day 1 Bangkok to Ayuthaya Depart at 1.30pm and cruise up the Chao Phraya River with spectacular views of the Grand Palace and Temple of Dawn. Just after sunset the boat docks by a Thai temple set in a tranquil rural village. A candle-lit dinner is served on the deck. Overnight in your air-conditioned cabin which is immaculately appointed with a double bed and a private western-style bathroom.

Day 2 Ayuthaya to Bangkok After breakfast on board head for Bang-Pa-In where your English speaking guide will take you to the Summer Palace. Travel by long tail boat to the ancient capital of Ayuthaya to visit the archaeological site of this once glorious capital. After a local lunch return to Bangkok by road. Prices from £265 per person, based on twin share.

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Day 1 Bangkok – Kanchanaburi – River Kwai Early pick up from your Bangkok hotel and depart for the beautiful Kanchanaburi region. Visit the Thailand-Burma Railway Centre Museum, the War Cemetery and Bridge over the River Kwai. Check in to the luxurious tented Hintock River Camp. Your tent includes en suite bathroom and air-conditioning. After lunch visit the Hell Fire Pass Memorial including a trek along the trails of the Death Railway. Afternoon at leisure. Mountain bikes are available for a ride to the local village. Day 2 River Kwai After breakfast enjoy an exciting boat ride upstream to visit the Saiyoke Yai Waterfall. After lunch visit the fascinating rock formations of Lawa Cave. Thai cooking class and dinner in the evening. Day 3 River Kwai – Bangkok Visit the ethnic Mon Tribal Village with optional elephant ride. Take a ride on the Death Railway through lush forest before returning by private car to Bangkok. Prices from £220 per person for a small group tour. From £440 per person for a private tour. Based on twin share.

THAILAND

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CHIANG MAI Travel Chiang Mai is served by regular scheduled services from Bangkok; a flying time of 70 minutes. The airport is 212 miles from the city, with a journey time of 15-20 minutes. We can arrange for you to be met on arrival at the airport and a private car transfer to your hotel from £8 per person. Attractions Wat Phra That Doi Suthep is Chiang Mai’s most important landmark, and overlooks the city from its forested mountain backdrop. Further afield visit a hill tribe village for

a sample of modern tribal life. An elephant-back ride through the lush jungle is a pleasant way to experience the spectacular scenery.

When to go Chiang Mai is warm all year round but the coolest period is November to February - temperatures are a maximum of 25°C, with an occasional chill in the mornings. Temperatures rise to a maximum of 40°C during the hottest period from March to June and some visitors may find this period too hot. The wet season lasts from July to October. Downpours and high humidity occur. Rainfall is unpredictable so a few dry days can be followed by a few wet days. Temperatures at this time average 30°C.

Chiang Mai is located over 400 miles to CHIANG MAI

the north of Bangkok and set amongst the highest mountains in the country, offering

Municipality Stadium

superb views. With its strategic location on the Ping River, Chiang Mai is the most

3 Wat Chiang Man

culturally significant city in Northern Thailand with historic temples, markets and

Wat Phra Singh

distinctive festivals. The old walled town

Tourist Office

Wat Chedi Luang

Night Bazaar

is particularly attractive for visitors to stroll around and enjoy the handicraft shopping, art galleries and restaurants.

Thai Tribal Crafts

Old Thai Public Library

2 Museum

Prince Kavila Monument

Thipanet Market Police

THAILAND

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CHIANG MAI Hotels

★★★★★

RACHAMANKHA

THE CHEDI CHIANG MAI

Set within the 700 year-old city walls of Chiang Mai, Rachamankha is a small, yet spacious gem offering boutique style. Designed by one of Thailand’s most renowned architects, the property is more a work of art than a hotel and features the owners collection of Asian art and antiques. With only 24 rooms set around two enclosed courtyards privacy and serenity are guaranteed. Restaurant, bar, and superb 20 metre pool. Voted one of the best new hotels in the world by Conde Nast in 2005.

Superbly located on the banks of the renowned Mae Ping River each of the resort’s 84 rooms and suites offers a contemporary-Asian design and boasts private courtyards, open balconies and breathtaking views of the gardens and river. Facilities include a restaurant set within a split-level Colonial house offering riverside dining, a choice of bars, a swimming pool, fitness centre, yoga/aerobics rooms and a spa. The Chedi Chiang Mai offers an elegant retreat in the heart of an historical city.

Offer Receive 3 nights for the price 2. Offer dates vary, call for details.

Offer Receive 3 nights for the price of 2, 1 Apr – 30 Sep 12.

Prices from £68 per person per night, including breakfast daily.

Prices from £77 per person per night, including breakfast daily.

★★★★

★★★★★

KANTARY HILLS HOTEL

PING NAKARA BOUTIQUE HOTEL & SPA

This stunning hotel and apartment property, located a short drive from the centre of Chiang Mai, offers the luxury of a five star hotel at four star prices. Featuring stylish and spacious studio, one and two bedroom suites with kitchen facilities. Parties of 3 or more will appreciate the benefit of a one or two bedroom apartment with separate living space. Facilities include a swimming pool, sauna, whirlpool, executive lounge, restaurant, bar and coffee shop.

This award-winning boutique property offers a tranquil location in the heart of Chiang Mai. The graceful architecture reflects the history of the city, and with just 19 rooms guests will enjoy the relaxing ambiance. The property is just a few steps from the sublime Ping River side garden and the famous night bazaar is just a five minute walk away. Facilities include a spa, outdoor pool, veranda for evening drinks, a lobby bar, restaurant and an Ayurvedic spa with treatments for holistic health and relaxation.

Offer Receive 3 nights for the price of 2, 16 Apr – 31 Oct 11.

Offer 5% discount when staying 5 nights or more. Year round.

Prices from £29 per person per night, including breakfast daily.

Prices from £57 per person per night, including breakfast daily.

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THAILAND

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CHIANG RAI and THE GOLDEN TRIANGLE

★★★★

THE LEGEND CHIANG RAI RESORT The Legend Chiang Rai Resort lies along the Mae Kok River, secluded from Chiang Rai, yet only a few minutes by car from the city centre. Guests will enjoy the tranquil, natural location and impressive panoramic views of the nearby hills and mountains. Accommodation is in single or two-storey buildings. Studios rooms are spacious and offer partial views of the river or gardens. Relax by the infinity pool; experience the spa and the restaurant, set on the river’s edge with fine riverside views.

Offer Receive 3 nights for the price of 2 nights. 1 Apr – 31 Oct 12. Prices from £36 per person per night, including breakfast daily.

Chiang Rai is located Chiang Rai

500 miles north of Bangkok, and set by the Kok River in the BANGKOK

★

heart of the infamous Golden Triangle.

Majestic mountains and antiquities attest to Chiang Rai’s prosperous past civilisation. It is home to several hill tribes with fascinating ways of life. An hour’s drive further north is the Golden Triangle; a picturesque and evocative area bordering Laos and Burma.

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Travel There are daily flights to Chiang Rai from Bangkok; a flying time of 85 minutes. The airport is 6 miles from the city, with a journey time of 15 minutes. We can arrange for you to be met on arrival at the airport and a private car transfer to your hotel from £12 per person. For the Anantara Resort we can arrange a private car transfer for the one hour journey from Chiang Rai from £26 per person. Chiang Mai is around 115 miles from Chiang Rai and a journey time by road of around 4-5 hours. Attractions Popular attractions in Chiang Rai include Chiang Saen, an ancient capital facing Laos, and the mountain-top Wat Phra That Doi Tung. Visitors to Chiang Rai have a wide

range of hiking and trekking options. From the Anantara Resort visitors should try a long tail boat along the river with a brief stop in Laos. Within the resort, experience elephant back riding and watch elephants bathing in the river.

When to go The best time to visit this region is in winter, from November to February when the air is cool and refreshing and the beautiful flowers are in bloom. The wet season lasts from July to October.

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GOLDEN TRIANGLE

★★★★★

ANANTARA GOLDEN TRIANGLE RESORT AND SPA Perched on a hill overlooking the hills of Burma and Laos, Anantara’s Golden Triangle Resort is as enchanting as the region in which it is located. Surrounded by the natural beauty of Northern Thailand’s rugged hill country, this luxury natural retreat is set amidst 160 acres of lush tropical jungles overlooking the winding Mekong River. The refreshing chill of a Northern Thai sunrise shrouded in mountain mist. The rush of a longboat ride up the Mekong to Laos. The exhilaration of riding an elephant through bamboo jungle along the border of Burma.

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Accommodation 58 Deluxe rooms, 3 Country View rooms each with superb views of the hills and forested mountains of three countries from balconies with built-in sofas. The 19 spacious Anantara Suites combine traditional Thai art and high design, featuring hardwood floors, double balconies and open bathrooms with oversized tubs for two. Facilities At the end of a perfect day, relax in the hilltop infinity-edged swimming pool overlooking the Mekong Valley. Enjoy a Thai massage or relax in an outdoor tub at the Anantara Spa. There are three restaurants and a bar offering a range of dining options.

elephants this camp offers guests of the resort a remarkable opportunity to observe the elephants up close, learn to drive an elephant through bamboo groves and rice paddy fields, watch them bathe in the river and see how the mahouts live.

Golden Triangle 3 Day Tour Includes 2 nights accommodation, all meals, minibar, internet access, a one time visit to the Opium Museum and a daily activity choice of spa treatment, elephant training (including riding and bathing the elephant), a 3 country tour and a cooking class.

The Elephant Camp Unique to the Anantara Golden Triangle Resort, the Elephant Camp is a traditional mahout (elephant-trainer) village, located in the

Offer Honeymooners receive complimentary welcome canapés and cocktails.

jungle within walking distance of the resort. Set up as a centre for the conservation of

Prices from £349 per person for a 3 day tour. 2 Day 1 night tour price on request.

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THE BEST OF NORTHERN THAILAND 6 Day Private Tour

Begin your Northern Thailand tour in the heart of the Golden Triangle with a two night stay at the remarkable Anantara Resort. Visit the city of Chiang Rai on the Kok River before finishing with two nights in Chiang Mai, blessed with stunning mountain scenery and historic temples. This is a private tour with first class accommodation throughout, and the services of an Englishspeaking guide. Flights are not included. Departs daily.

BURMA Golden Triangle Chiang Rai

LAOS

Chiang Mai

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Day 1 Arrive Chiang Rai Met on arrival at Chiang Rai airport and privately transferred north to the Anantara Golden Triangle Resort and Spa for a two night stay. All meals included and one activity per day from a choice of elephant bathing/feeding, a spa treatment, a cooking class or a visit to the Opium Museum. Day 2 Golden Triangle touring Visit the village of Doi Mae Salong, set high amidst magnificent mountainous scenery, with many hill tribe villages scattered below. Full afternoon free at leisure to relax at the Anantara. The resort incorporates an elephant camp where you can feed the elephants, and watch them bathe in the river. Day 3 Golden Triangle to Chiang Rai Visit the hill tribe villages of Yao and Akha before proceeding to Chiang Saen, an ancient city opposite Laos on the steep banks of the Mekong River. Enter the infamous Golden Triangle where the borders of Thailand, Burma and Laos meet. Visit Mai Sai, the northern-most border trading town, where you can shop for interesting items from Thailand and Burma. Continue on to Chiang Rai, for an overnight stay at The Legend Chiang Rai Hotel. Day 4 Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai Leave Chiang Rai and visit the Long Neck Hill Tribe Village and Shan Village by road. Then enjoy a long-tailed boat ride on the Mae Kok River from Shan Village to Thaon. After lunch you continue on to Chiang Mai, visit the Chiang Dao cave; a Buddhist shrine and elaborate cave network where local guides take you into the cool inner caves. Arrival in Chiang Mai and transferred to the Chedi Chiang Mai for a two night stay. The stylish Chedi is superbly located on the banks of the Mae Ping River.

Day 5 Chiang Mai touring Today join a tour that will take you up into the mountains, to the acclaimed temple Wat Phrathad Doi Suthep. Built in A.D.384 and situated at 3500 feet above sea level, this is a significant temple with panoramic views of the city. After lunch, served in a local restaurant, continue on to San Kampaeng and the nearby Bo-Sang Village. These locations are renowned for their local cottage industries and handicrafts. Popular shopping destinations, they also allow visitors to witness at first-hand the skills of craftsman. Day 6 Depart Chiang Mai Morning at leisure before you depart the Chedi Hotel for Chiang Mai Airport to end your tour.

Price from ÂŁ899 per person, based on twin share.

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EASTERN & ORIENTAL EXPRESS RAIL JOURNEYS

Enjoy a panoramic view of the

3 DAY SINGAPORE TO BANGKOK

4 DAY BANGKOK TO SINGAPORE

mystical landscapes of Thailand,

Day 1 Singapore The Eastern & Oriental Express departs Singapore’s Keppel Road station at 11am. Enjoy the passing scenery as the train crosses to Malaysia via the causeway of the Straits of Johor. During the evening, the E&O pauses at Kuala Lumpur’s magnificent Moorish-style station where you may disembark for a stroll. Retire to your cabin which has been transformed into a cosy bedroom.

Day 1 Bangkok Depart the city just before 6pm. Dinner is served as the train travels through the countryside. Retire to your compartment, which you’ll find is now transformed into a cosy bedroom by your steward.

Singapore and Malaysia aboard the majesty and splendour of the Eastern & Oriental Express train. With its comfortable and elegant compartments, delicious cuisine and superb service, this is a truly unique way to experience the full wonder of this remarkable region. Prices include a luxury air-conditioned compartment with en suite facilities, all table d’hôte meals on board and sightseeing tours.

Day 2 Penang Breakfast is taken in your cabin before arriving in Butterworth. Here coaches take you across to colonial Georgetown, capital of Penang, on the local ferry. Enjoy a guided tour of Georgetown. Cross into Thailand in the afternoon watching the changing scenery from the open deck of the Observation Car or relax in the comfort of the Saloon Car. Dinner is served in the sumptuous dining car. Day 3 River Kwai & Bangkok Arrive in the River Kwai area in the morning, passing under the Bridge. On board a local historian provides a brief overview. Afternoon excursion to some of the local sights. Continue to Bangkok, arriving at around 3pm.

Bangkok

Singapore

Price from £1440 per person, based on twin share.

Departure dates in 2012 Jan 19; Feb 2, 9, 16, 23; Mar 8, 15; Apr 21; May 2; Jun 19; Jul 17; Aug 21; Oct 3, 11, 26; Nov 11, 23; Dec 19.

Departure dates in 2012 Jan 26; Feb 5, 12, 19; Mar 4, 11, 18; Apr 1, 24; May 16; Jun 25; Jul 23; Aug 27; Sep 23; Oct 6, 21; Nov 6, 18; Dec 23.

M A L AY S I A Kuala Lumpur

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Day 3 Penang Arrive in Butterworth and visit nearby colonial Georgetown, capital of Penang with its temples, bazaars and colourful shophouses. In the afternoon continue south, enjoying the passing scenery from one of the lounge cars or from the open deck of the Observation Car. Final dinner in one of the opulent dining cars, followed by a relaxing evening in the Bar Car with its resident pianist. Day 4 Singapore Cross the Straits of Johor into Singapore, then disembark at approximately 11.45am.

THAILAND

Penang

Day 2 Wang Po and River Kwai Awake early to see the train make its way from Wang Po along the wooden viaduct beside a towering cliff. At the River Kwai Station board a local raft for a cruise through the lush greenery, passing under the Bridge. On board a local historian provides a brief overview of the history of the Thailand-Burma railway and bridge. Afternoon excursion to some of the local sights.

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EASTERN & ORIENTAL EXPRESS RAIL JOURNEYS

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HUA HIN Travel Hua Hin is located approximately 106 miles from Bangkok. We can arrange for you to be met on arrival at Bangkok Airport for an immediate private car transfer to your Hua Hin accommodation, from £36 per person. There are flights from Bangkok to Hua Hin, but the service is unpredictable, so we recommend a land transfer.

The railway station is worth a look as it reflects the history of the town with its impressive royal waiting room. There is a fine choice of beaches all along this coast. When to go September through to February is generally the best time to visit Hua Hin, when the skies are clear and it’s less humid. Temperatures don’t vary too greatly throughout the year; usually between 27°C and 35°C. The rainy season is from April to August and, although humid, Hua Hin is not as hot as Bangkok due to the cooling sea breezes wafting off the Gulf of Thailand.

Attractions Phra Nakhon Khiri (Khao Wang) is a spectacular palace, dating back to 1869, set on a hill with impressive views. It features a Chedi, not unlike that of those seen at the Grand Palace in Bangkok.

Hua Hin is closely associated with Thai

BANGKOK

★

Airport

Hua Hin

royalty and located on the sunrise side of the Thai Gulf, some three hours southwest of Bangkok. Essentially Hua Hin is a

GULF

quiet and relaxing seaside resort with a fine stretch of sandy beach and a host of

attractions nearby such as national parks

THAILAND

and historical sites. Six of the country’s best golf courses are within easy reach.

HUA HIN Railway Station

Royal Hua Hin Golf Course

THAILAND

Hua Hin Temple

6 4

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HUA HIN Hotels

ANANTARA HUA HIN RESORT & SPA ★★★★★

Nestled in 14 acres of beautifully luxuriant tropical gardens on a secluded seafront, the Anantara Resort offers a romantic honeymoon hideaway or the ultimate family getaway in the classic seaside resort of Hua Hin. Reminiscent of an ancient Thai village the hotel offers 187 rooms, each with a balcony or terrace with built-in sofas overlooking the gardens. Facilities include two infinity-edged pools, a swim-up bar, spa and five bars and restaurants. Shuttle bus to Hua Hin (10 minute journey. Fee.) Offer Receive 6 nights for the price of 4. Offer dates vary, call for details. Prices from £43 per person per night, based on room only.

CENTARA GRAND BEACH RESORT & VILLAS HUA HIN ★★★★★

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Experience the luxury of an exquisite colonial-style hotel set in delightful tropical gardens and bordering a stretch of sandy beach. This historic hotel dates back to 1923 and offers both style and sophistication. The 207 rooms and 42 pool villas feature Thai silks, hand-woven cotton and attractive teakwood. Facilities include four swimming pools, a fitness centre, a spa, golf putting green, kid’s club and choice of bars and restaurants. Seven of Thailand’s top golf courses are located nearby. Offer Receive up to 5 nights free, 16 Apr – 31 Oct 12. Prices from £73 per person per night, including breakfast daily.

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HUA HIN Hotels

DUSIT THANI HUA HIN ★★★★★

Commanding an unspoilt beachfront location, the Dusit Thani Hua Hin combines sumptuous comfort with traditional Thai style. An ornamental lake, lily pond and tropical gardens flank a magnificent swimming pool. 296 rooms offer panoramic views of the sea, gardens or pool. Hotel facilities include two pools, a children’s pool, a fitness centre, horse riding, tennis courts, squash courts, sauna, steam room, Jacuzzi and spa. Excellent choice of bars and restaurants. Shuttle bus to Hua Hin (fee). Offer Receive 7 nights for the price of 5 nights, 1 Apr – 31 Oct 12. Prices from £45 per person per night, based on room only.

CAPE NIDHRA HOTEL ★★★★★

Characterised by its impeccable service and elegant accommodation, the hotel has been described as “one of the most distinctive in Hua Hin”. Perched on the shores of Hua Hin’s breathtaking beach, the hotel offers easy access to the seaside town’s street markets, shopping, restaurants and nightlife. Each room at the stunning new Cape Nidhra Hotel has a private pool. Facilities include a fine dining restaurant, beachside bar, fitness centre, pool, sauna, spa and water sports. Offer Receive up to 4 nights free, 16 Apr – 31 Oct 12. Prices from £65 per person per night, including breakfast daily.

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HUA HIN Hotels

EVASON HUA HIN ★★★★★

Situated on the seafront at Pranburi, approximately 19 miles south of Hua Hin, the resort is set among 20 acres of beautifully landscaped gardens filled with lotus ponds and waterways facing the beach and the Gulf of Siam. The luxurious rooms are spread out with low-rise buildings and complemented by stand-alone private pool villas. Facilities include a swimming pool, fitness centre, kids’ club, tennis, spa, watersports, choice of bars and restaurants and a shuttle bus to town (small fee). Offer Receive up to 4 nights free, offer valid year round. Prices from £36 per person per night, including breakfast daily.

AMARI HUA HIN ★★★★

The brand new Amari Hua Hin is ideally situated on an expansive stretch of Khao Takiab Beach, Hua Hin and offers elegant accommodation in an idyllic garden setting, combined with first-rate hotel service and stylish interiors. Facilities include an oversized swimming pool, a kids' pool, kids' club, a fitness room and spa. For dining options choose from: the Deli & Internet Lounge, Beach Club, Pool Bar, Lobby Lounge and Café and the all day dining venue. Offer Receive up to 3 nights free. 1 May – 31 Oct 12. Prices from £45 per person per night, including breakfast daily.

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KOH SAMUI

★

Chaweng, attracts surfers and offers a laid-back atmosphere. The north coast features the beaches of Maenam, Bo Phut and Bang Rak; all of which are ideal places for those who want to get away from it all. The secluded west coast beaches are remote but offer superb sunset views.

Guide to the beaches Situated on Koh Samui’s east coast, Chaweng is the island’s longest beach, with four miles of powder-soft sand. It has the island’s largest concentration of accommodation and is by far the busiest and liveliest part of the island with a noisy social scene at night. Lamai, to the south of

When to go February to June is the hot and dry season with temperatures touching 40°C. May to September have some short, sharp downpours but are cooler months with temperatures in the mid to late 30°C and calmer seas. The rainy season extends from October through to January.

Koh Samui, Thailand’s third largest island, is smaller, quieter and less developed than

Koh Samui

Phuket. Life is lived at a gentle pace and al-

though the main beach resort of Chaweng now boasts a wide variety of shops, bars and restaurants, much of the rest of the

2 6

Bophut Beach

3 4

Big Buddha

Airport Na Thon Town

KOH SAMUI

Ch aw en gB ea ch

BANGKOK

Travel Koh Samui is well served with flights from Bangkok, Krabi, Chiang Mai, Phuket as well as Singapore and Hong Kong. The flying time from Bangkok is 60 minutes. We can arrange for you to be met on arrival and privately transferred to your Samui accommodation, from £15 per person.

Namuang Waterfall Lamai Beach

island is relatively quiet and unspoilt and offers beautiful sandy beaches.

THAILAND

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KOH SAMUI Hotels

SALA SAMUI RESORT & SPA ★★★★★

SALA Samui is a stunning pool villa boutique resort, located on 80 metres of pristine white sandy beach on the north-east tip of the island, just ten minutes from Koh Samui Airport. Featuring the luxury of a private pool in 53 of a total of 69 villas and suites, the resort offers stylish and comfortable accommodation. SALA Samui boasts two beachfront pools, including a 25-metre lap pool surrounded by four massage salas floating in a beautiful lotus pond. Spa, gym, library, beach bar and two restaurants. Offer Receive up to a 15% earlybird discount. Call for details. Prices from £55 per person per night, based on room only.

ZAZEN BOUTIQUE RESORT & SPA ★★★★★

The charming Zazen Boutique Resort & Spa occupies an idyllic spot in the north of Koh Samui. Intimate and relaxed, the 26-room resort sits beside the white sand beach of Bophut, overlooking the clear azure water. Distinctive bungalows are set amongst a verdant tropical garden and offer quality furnishings combined with hi tech in-room entertainment. The restaurant is renowned as one of the best on the island. Facilities include a pool and spa. Offer Receive up to 4 nights free. Offer dates vary, call for details. Prices from £61 per person per night, including breakfast daily.

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KOH SAMUI Hotels

ANANTARA BOPHUT SAMUI RESORT & SPA ★★★★★

Set in serene Fisherman’s Cove on a quiet stretch of Bo Phut beach on the north coast of Koh Samui, The Anantara Bophut Resort is a true oasis of tranquillity with bustling Chaweng and the airport a short drive away. All 106 rooms include a private balcony, overlooking the tropical gardens and beach. Enjoy a cocktail at the swim-up bar of the infinity-edged pool, set on the beachfront. Facilities include a fitness centre, spa, tennis, cookery and yoga classes, two bars and restaurants. Offer Receive up to 4 nights free. Offer dates vary, call for details. Prices from £59 per person per night, based on room only.

BANDARA RESORT & SPA ★★★★★

The Bandara Resort and Spa offers a great location set on the beachfront at popular Bo Phut beach, on the north coast of Koh Samui. Set in extensive tropical gardens it offers space and serenity with the lively Fisherman’s Village, with its range of bars, cafes and restaurants, nearby. Accommodation comes in a range of deluxe hotel rooms and villas. Facilities include 4 pools including a kids’ pool, watersports, spa, restaurant, lobby bar and beachfront bar. Offer Receive up to 7 nights free. Dates vary, please call for details. Prices from £49 per person per night, including breakfast daily.

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KOH SAMUI Hotels

AMARI PALM REEF SAMUI ★★★★★

The Amari Palm Reef Samui is set on Chaweng beach, but at the quieter more secluded northern end of Samui’s most popular stretch of coastline. With elegant Thai-style buildings, divided by a small road, set either on the beach or in tropical gardens, this boutique resort offers 187 spacious Thai-style rooms with either a balcony or terrace. Guests can enjoy two free-form swimming pools, a kids’ pool, a jacuzzi, the fitness centre, a spa, watersports and a PADI dive centre. Two bars and two restaurants. Offer Receive up to 4 nights free. Offer dates vary, call for details. Prices from £69 per person per night, including breakfast daily.

MAI SAMUI BEACH RESORT ★★★★★

Chic, contemporary and secluded, the new Mai Samui Beach Resort occupies a prime beachfront on renowned Laem Yai Beach, on Samui’s quieter western coastline. The three kilometre stretch of powdery white sand skirts a beautiful curved bay. Choice of 97 rooms including Deluxe, Deluxe Pool Suite (pictured) and Oceanfront Pool Villas. The hotel’s facilities include a pool, a spa, a fitness club, squash, a kids club and choice of bars and restaurants. Offer Receive up to 7 nights free. Offer dates vary, call for details. Prices from £80 per person per night, including breakfast daily.

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PHUKET and KHAO LAK Travel There are scheduled flights to Phuket from Bangkok, with a journey time of around 70 minutes. The airport is to the north of the island and transfer times vary from 10-60 minutes. Khao Lak is accessed via flights to Phuket and is around a one hour transfer. All transfer prices on request. Guide to Phuket’s beaches Patong beach boasts a long stretch of sandy beach, lively night markets, restaurants, bars and evening entertainment. Cape Panwa is a secluded location with a lovely private beach. Karon beach is close to Patong, relatively quiet but with a good choice of bars and restaurants. Bang Tao offers a white sandy beach and inland lagoons which link five of Phuket’s most sophisticated hotels. Kata beach is popular with families. The secluded bay and fishing village of Kamala still retains its small-town atmosphere with restaurants lining the beach.

BANGKOK

★

Airport

Bang Tao Beach

4 3 Patong Beach

7 Karon Beach

PHUKET Phuket Town

5 1 2

8 6

When to go The dry, coolest period is from November to February and this proves to be the most popular time for visitors. The rainy season from June to October brings a mixture of sunshine and tropical downpours, with spring from March to May offering hot weather (35°C). Generally the temperature throughout the year averages 30°C.

Set just off Thailand’s south-west coast, Phuket is the country’s largest island, and blessed with

Khao Lak

magnificent coves and Phuket

bays, palm-fringed

beaches and numerous sparkling islands. Khao Lak (pictured right, the beach at The Sarojin) lies to the north of Phuket and offers pure white beaches, forests, lagoons mangroves and excellent diving.

THAILAND

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PHUKET Hotels

THE SHORE AT KATATHANI ★★★★★

This new luxury resort offers a serene setting perched upon a secluded cove commanding an impressive view of the blue Andaman Sea. There are 48 romantic pool villa units perfect for honeymooners. Each villa has a private infinity pool, sunken lounge, bath with rain shower. The interior design combines soft colours and natural textures with oriental touches. Facilities include a stunning beachfront restaurant, spa, fitness centre, library and free use of all the facilities at its sister resort, Katathani. Offer Receive up to 5 nights free, 1 Apr – 31 Oct 12. Prices from £186 per person per night, including breakfast daily.

KATATHANI PHUKET BEACH RESORT ★★★★★

The Katathani Phuket Beach Resort is a popular, well established hotel facing 850 metres of unspoilt white sandy beach in secluded Kata Noi Bay, just a 20 minute drive south of Patong. There are two wings but we offer the Junior Suites in the deluxe Thani Wing, all with full or partial sea views from a private balcony/terrace. It’s just a short stroll across the lush gardens to the beachfront. Facilities include six pools, three jacuzzis, spa, two fitness centres, tennis, games room, library, bars and six restaurants. Offer Receive up to 7 nights free, 1 Apr – 31 Oct 12. Prices from £72 per person per night, including breakfast daily.

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PHUKET Hotels

THE SURIN PHUKET ★★★★★

Formerly The Chedi, The Surin Phuket is nestled in peaceful seclusion on the island's finest shore, Pansea Beach. The cottages sit under coconut palms on landscaped slopes that gently descend to meet the white sand beach. The appeal of the spacious 89 one-bedroom and 19 two-bedroom cottages is enhanced with private verandahs, secluded sun decks, and handcrafted teak floors. Facilities include a pool and kids pool, excellent snorkelling during the summer months, a spa, gym, tennis, watersports, bars and restaurants. Offer Receive up to 4 nights free. 16 Apr – 31 Oct 12. Conditions apply. Prices from £82 per person per night, including breakfast daily.

DUSIT THANI LAGUNA PHUKET ★★★★★

The Dusit Thani Laguna is a beach front resort with a 200-metre white sandy beach, set on beautiful Laguna Phuket Bang Tao Bay, Asia’s first integrated resort development, located on the west coast of Phuket. It is 30 minutes drive south of Phuket International Airport and half an hour north of Patong Beach. Facilities include an excellent swimming pool, bars and restaurants. Guests staying in the Laguna complex have access to the full range of other hotel facilities, providing unparalleled choice. Offer Receive up to 2 nights free. 1 Apr – 31 Oct 2012. Prices from £45 per person per night, including breakfast daily.

THAILAND

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PHUKET Hotels

MOM TRI’S VILLA ROYALE ★★★★★

Mom Tri’s Villa Royale is a boutique hotel situated on a headland overlooking the Andaman Sea and the white sand beach of Kata beach. Here you’ll find a wide selection of bars and restaurants nearby, all facing one of Phuket’s finest beaches. 40 luxurious suites (some with private pools) all feature panoramic sea views amidst the lush gardens. A private path leads to the sandy white beach. Facilities include 3 pools, fitness room, spa, library, bar and restaurant. Offer Receive up to 4 nights free. 15 Apr – 15 Oct 12. Prices from £79 per person per night including breakfast daily.

THE VIJITT RESORT ★★★★★

The Vijitt Resort Phuket is an all villa-style resort set in 18 acres facing a 250 metre sandy beach in Rawai in south-east Phuket, with stunning views across Chalong Bay. Guests seeking something a little different will appreciate this resort. The 92 villas vary in style and size, some with private pools (private pool villa pictured) and all within a beautifully landscaped natural setting. Facilities include two pools, spa, gym, a kids’ club and non-motorised water sport. Choice of two restaurants with terraces and sea views. Offer Receive up to 4 nights free, 16 Apr – 31 Oct 12. Prices from £68 per person per night, including breakfast daily.

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PHUKET Hotels

THE DEWA KARON BEACH ★★★★

The Dewa Karon Beach, Phuket is a 4 star boutique resort located on a hillside in Karon just a five minute walk to the beachfront. Karon offers a long beautiful beach. The resort consists of 49 apartments including one and two bedroom units equipped with kitchenette, that perfectly suits couples and families. The units on the 3rd floor have a spectacular breathtaking sea view looking over Karon beach. Facilities include a restaurant with bar and wrap-around pool. Offer Guests receive a free dinner for 2 and bottle of wine. 1 Jan – 30 Apr 12. Prices from £35 per person per night including breakfast daily.

CAPE PANWA HOTEL ★★★★

Renowned for its excellent service and exclusive beach, Cape Panwa’s accommodation includes brand new Junior Suites, comfortable Family Suites, stylish Cape Suites and two remarkable Cape Signature Suites. Six, two bedroom pool villas offer space and privacy, each with a private pool overlooking the idyllic coconut grove and beach. Facilities include two pools, a kids club and pool, spa, watersports, fitness centre, five restaurants and five bars and regular trips to nearby Coral Island. Offer Receive up to 14 nights free, 16 Apr – 31 Oct 12. Prices from £56 per person per night, including breakfast daily.

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KHAO LAK hotels

THE SAROJIN ★★★★★

The Sarojin is an award winning boutique luxury beach resort located on an 11 km secluded white sand beach, surrounded by 5 national parks and the famous Similan Islands dive sanctuaries. The Sarojin is renowned for its service suiting couples looking for a relaxing break or luxurious honeymoons. All 56 guest rooms are spacious with king-size beds, luxurious bathrooms with intimate couples baths. Facilities include 2 restaurants, 2 bars, wine cellar, private dining, spa, gym, luxury boat. No children under 10. Offer Receive up to 10 nights free, 16 Apr – 31 Oct 12. Prices from £138 per person per night, including breakfast daily.

LA FLORA RESORT & SPA ★★★★

The elegant and boutique La Flora Resort and Spa is located right on a golden sandy beach, just an hour’s drive from Phuket Airport. Offering 138 guest rooms (Deluxe room pictured), including 13 exclusive villas, pool access and deluxe rooms, all with a contemporary Asian style set in low rise buildings spaced throughout the gardens. Hotel facilities include an infinity-edged swimming pool, a free-form swimming pool, a kids’ pool, watersports, a fitness centre, tennis, a spa and a beachfront restaurant. Offer Receive up to 7 nights free. Offer dates vary, call for details. Prices from £44 per person per night, including breakfast daily.

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KHAO SOK NATIONAL PARK

Samui transfers we can arrange a car to/from Surat Thani (212 hours) and ferry from there

Khao Sok National Park in southern Thailand is a spectacular

to/from Samui. Another alternative is to take an overnight train from Bangkok to Surat Thani then a car transfer to Elephant Hills can be pre-booked.

place to visit. It is covered by the oldest evergreen rainforest in the world, huge limestone mountains shooting straight up in the air, deep valleys, breathtaking lakes, exciting caves, wild animals and much more.

Rainforest Camp

Koh Samui Surat Thani

Elephant Hills Main Camp

Khao Lak

Phuket

Krabi

THAILAND

Activities Include feeding and bathing elephants, lake exploration cruises and canoeing on Cheow Larn Lake and guided treks through the jungle.

When to go Khao Sok is one of the wettest areas in Thailand with an average annual rainfall of around 3,500mm. This will generally be restricted between the months of May and November. At other times of the year the area is generally dry apart from the odd day of rain.

Travel The closest airport to both Elephant Hills Luxury Tented Camp and the Rainforest Camp at Cheow Larn Lake is Phuket â&#x20AC;&#x201C; approximately a 2.5 transfer (3 hours for the Rainforest Camp). Elephant Hills is just a 45 minute transfer from the beach resorts at Khao Lak so many visitors choose to combine a beach stay here with Elephant Hills. Krabi is a 3 hour transfer. For Koh

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KHAO SOK NATIONAL PARK

★★★★

★★★★★

ELEPHANT HILLS LUXURY TENTED CAMP

RAINFOREST CAMP CHEOW LARN LAKE

Elephant Hills is Thailand’s first luxury jungle camp combining the experience of an African Safari with a Thai Forest setting. The scenery is dramatic; jungle covered limestone peaks and a forest with an array of animals and plants. Accommodation is in 30 luxurious tents, all with an en suite bathroom. The tents are spacious and well protected against mosquitoes and other intruders. There is an attractive restaurant, a log fire to sit around with drinks and a swimming pool.

The new Rainforest Camp is 10 luxury floating tents, set spectacularly on Cheow Larn Lake. Each floating tent includes an en suite bathroom, a comfortable double bed and a sun deck to sit and enjoy the amazing views of the lake and the rainforest mountains. Guests can canoe off from their own deck (canoe hire included) to explore the lake and perhaps spot the monkeys or array of birdlife. Guided canoe tours are also included. Facilities include a restaurant and bar.

Elephant Hills 3 Day Jungle Lake Safari from £299 per person Includes • Pick up & drop off from Phuket Airport or a hotel in Phuket, Khao Lak or Krabi • Elephant Experience – feed, bathe an elephant • Canoe Safari at Cheow Larn Lake • Jungle Trekking • 1 nights at Elephant Hills Luxury Tented Camp • 1 night at Rainforest Camp Cheow Larn Lake • All meals

Rainforest Camp 2 Day Tour from £239 per person Includes • Pick up and drop off Phuket Airport or a Phuket/Khao Lak/Krabi hotel • Cheow Larn Lake Exploration tour • Night Boat Safari (subject to weather) • Jungle trekking • 1 night at Rainforest Camp • All meals - Add a night at Elephant Hills to make this a 3 day 2 night tour. From £60 per person.

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KOH LANTA Koh Lanta, located to the south of Krabi, has converted from an 1980’s backpacker destination into one of Thailand’s new upmarket hotspots. With its 25-mile picturesque coastline and close proximity to Phuket and Krabi, it’s a great alternative to the other busier tropical islands. ★★★★★

THE LAYANA RESORT AND SPA How to get there There are regular flights from Bangkok to Krabi. From Krabi Airport you will be met by and transferred by shared, airconditioned mini-bus to Baan Hua Hin Pier, a journey time of 1 hour. During the high season Nov - Apr you will then travel by boat to Pimalai - a 1 hour ride, or to Layana - a 20 min ride. In low season an alternative crossing may be required call for details. Roundtrip transfer from £74 per person for Pimalai and from £86 per person for Layana.

BANGKOK

★

The Layana Resort and Spa is nestled on Koh Lanta Yai Island in Mu Koh Lanta National Park. The resort enjoys a spectacular beachfront location on a 3-kilometre long white sand beach. The award winning resort makes an ideal choice for couples and honeymooners (adults only resort). Accommodation The resort features 50 luxurious guestrooms and suites comprising 44 Garden Pavilion rooms, 3 Beach Suites and 3 Ocean Deluxe Suites. All are designed in contemporary Thai style, complete with large balconies, while decor and furnishings are both natural and luxurious, making extensive use of hardwoods, silks and other indigenous materials. All rooms have either king-size double beds or separate twin beds with goose-down duvets, as well as a large daybed serving both as a daytime sitting area and as a third bed at night if needed.

Bathrooms are fitted with bathtubs and separate showers, while the suites are additionally provided with open-air garden showers. Facilities Tides Restaurant is perched on the very edge of the beach overlooking the sea serving international cuisine as well as traditional Thai cuisine. The Sundowners bar facing the beach is a perfect place to unwind and enjoy the sunset and your evening cocktails. Also the Linger Longer Spa has an idyllic garden setting with 5 treatment rooms and other facilities including a library, fitness room and an infinity pool overlooking the beach. Offer Get up to 8 nights free 1 May – 31 Oct 12.

Koh Lanta

Prices from £80 per person per night, including breakfast daily.

THAILAND

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KOH LANTA

★★★★★

PIMALAI RESORT AND SPA The luxurious Pimalai Resort and Spa is built on a hillside, amongst 100 acres of rainforest and extends down to a superb 900 metre stretch of pristine sandy beach. Set within the grounds are 121 elegantly appointed villas. Facing a secluded bay Pimalai enjoys one of the finest settings for a beach resort in Thailand. This hotel combines all the right ingredients; subtle five star comforts, natural beauty and far from the crowds.

Activities and facilities Available free of charge are canoes, windsurf boards, sailing boats and boogie boards. There are no motorised watersports at Pimalai to keep the bay peaceful. Enjoy regular boat trips to some beautiful but deserted islands for snorkelling and diving and even to the more distant Phi Phi Islands. Elephant rides through the jungle are available. Bicycles are free to use as are the tennis courts and table tennis. Hotel facilities include two infinity-edged swim-

ming pools, a fitness centre, a library with free internet access, a dive centre (Nov - Apr) and a spa. Wonderful choice of four restaurants including the spectacularly located Seven Seas Restaurant with unparalled sea views. Offer Receive up to 6 nights free, 1 May – 31 Oct 12. Prices from £83 per person per night, including breakfast daily.

Accommodation All rooms feature a private balcony or terrace, a polished teakwood floor, rattan curtains and rich Thai fabric. Deluxe rooms offer garden views. Bayfront Deluxe rooms are larger with an additional living space, a larger balcony and partial views of the beach and bay. Choice of Pool or Beach Villas depending on whether you prefer to be just steps from the sandy beach or high up in the rainforest with tremendous views of the bay. Pool and Beach Villas are offered as one, two or three bedrooms, with all of the Pool Villas featuring their own private pool.

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KRABI and PHI PHI ISLANDS Travel Krabi is well served with regular scheduled flights from Bangkok, with a flying time of 70 minutes. Krabi’s airport is 17 miles from Ao Nang, the main beach resort. A private transfer is from £13 per person. The islands of Phi Phi can be reached via a flight to either Phuket or Krabi, then a boat transfer of 60-75 minutes. We can arrange for you to be met on arrival at either airport and privately transferred to the boat marina for your boat crossing to Phi Phi, from £37 per person. Some hotels offer a private speedboat as an alternative to the scheduled ferry service. This is a much quicker crossing but also more expensive.

ronment with superb sea views and direct access to beautiful white sand beaches. Resorts here tend to be luxurious and self-contained; outside of these resorts there are only a handful of shops and restaurants. When to go The ideal time is November to April, the hot and dry season, when there are calm seas and clear blue skies. The rainy season, from May to October, is cooler with days punctuated with short sharp downpours. Average temperatures throughout the year vary between 28-32°C but reach 36°C during March and April.

Guide to the beaches Ao Nang is the centre of the tourist scene in Krabi. The beach, pretty but unspectacular, has the safest swimming in the region. Klong Muang and Tubkaak beaches are located to the north of Ao Nang and offer a quieter envi-

BANGKOK

★

Krabi, located 500 miles Khao Thong

south of Bangkok on Thailand’s south-west coast, offers white-sand Krabi Phi Phi

beaches, backed by

Tubkaak Beach

KRABI

1 3

Wat Tham Sua Airport

Reclining Buddha Khao Klom

dense rainforest and Krabi

lapped by clear waters; some of the best in Thailand. A short boat ride from Krabi or Phuket will transport you to the tropical paradise that is the islands of Phi Phi with

Klong Muang Beach

4 ra ha tT a r a ph ch ea No ach gB Be n h Na ac Ao Be ai S n To

2 Pranang Beach

its spectacular rock formations, white sandy beaches and excellent snorkelling.

THAILAND

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KRABI Hotels

THE TUBKAAK KRABI BOUTIQUE RESORT ★★★★★

Nestled on the white sand of Tubkaak Beach with superb views towards the limestone peaks of the Ko Hong Archipelago. Guests of the boutique-style Tubkaak Resort will not be surrounded by high-rise hotels or crowds, just calm tranquillity in a beautiful natural setting. Rooms are located in two storey buildings set around the pool and gardens, or on the beachfront with a terrace and an unrivalled sea view. Facilities include a bar and restaurant, spa, sauna, swimming pool, jacuzzi, WiFi, gym, and library. Offer Complimentary credit on food / drink at Baht 500 per person daily. Prices from £77 per person per night, including breakfast daily.

CENTARA GRAND BEACH RESORT & VILLAS ★★★★★

The Centara Grand Beach Resort sits majestically within its own private bay with impressive views. The resort has a direct beachfront location facing 500 metres of pristine white sand. This resort of 192 rooms and pool villas is linked to the town of Ao Nang by free boat transfers. Rooms are spacious and include a ‘living-room-style’ terrace complete with a lounge and dining area. Facilities include two pools, a kids’ club and pool, jacuzzi, gym, watersports, a spa and choice of bars and restaurants. Offer Receive up to 10 nights free, 1 Apr – 24 Dec 12. Prices rom £78 per person per night, including breakfast daily.

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KRABI Hotels

AMARI VOGUE KRABI ★★★★★

Situated on the sandy white shores of Tub Kaek Beach beside the tranquil blue of the Andaman Sea, Amari Vogue is an intimate 57-room resort with elegant Lanna-inspired architecture in a beautiful garden setting. Set on a hillside sloping gently towards the idyllic beach, the Amari Vogue offers a perfect beach-side getaway. All rooms are spacious and feature a private balcony. Facilities include two restaurants, a lounge, a poolside cafe, a pool, kids’ pool, spa and fitness room. Offer Receive up to 3 nights free, 16 Apr – 31 Oct 12. Prices from £66 per person per night, including breakfast daily.

SALA TALAY RESORT & SPA ★★★★

The new, contemporary boutique resort of Sala Talay Resort & Spa is located close to the beach, surrounded by lush tropical trees and greenery in Ao Nang. 59 spacious and luxurious rooms and suites are set in two low-rise wings framing one of the largest swimming pools in Krabi. All the boutique rooms are elegantly furnished and offer views of the pool. Facilities include a large plunge pool, a kids’ pool, a gym, poolside bar, and a restaurant. Offer Receive up to 7 nights free. 1 Apr – 31 Oct 12. Prices from £63 per person per night, including breakfast daily.

THAILAND

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PHI PHI ISLANDS

ZEAVOLA RESORT ★★★★★

Zeavola Resort is a romantic rustic resort, located on the northern tip of Koh Phi Phi, nestled on a prime stretch of soft white sand. An hour by speed boat from Phuket or Krabi, Zeavola Resort is the perfect getaway to relax, recharge and reinvigorate. Activities and facilities include exploring the nearby pristine reefs with a PADI accredited dive centre, a strong emphasis on nature at Zeavola Spa or sampling some of Thailand’s finest cuisine at a choice of two restaurants. Offer Receive up to 4 nights free. 1 Apr – 31 Oct 12. Prices from £96 per person per night, including breakfast daily.

PHI PHI ISLAND VILLAGE BEACH RESORT & SPA ★★★★★

The Phi Phi Island Village Beach Resort & Spa is spectacularly located on an 800 metre private sandy beach with low-rise accommodation set amidst a coconut plantation. Twelve hillside pool villas and 100 bungalows include a large balcony and sun lounge chairs with Beachfront Junior Suites offering full sea views. Facilities include a pool, a kids’ pool, spa, fitness room, tennis, a five-star PADI dive centre, watersports and a choice of four bars and four restaurants. Offer Receive 4 nights for the price of 3, or 8 for 6, 1 May – 31 Oct 12. Prices from £59 per person per night, including breakfast daily.

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KOH CHANG Koh Chang is feted for its pristine rainforests, stunning marine life and soft white-sand beaches. Set 200 miles south-east of Bangkok, it is easily accessible thanks to nearby Trat Airport. As Thailand’s second largest island, Koh Chang has a variety of adventurous activities for visitors in its mountainous interior. ★★★★★

AMARI EMERALD COVE KOH CHANG How to get there Daily flights operate from Bangkok to Trat Airport, a journey time of 60 minutes. We can arrange for you to be met on arrival and transferred to the pier for the crossing to Koh Chang. Allow 45 minutes for the car and boat journey. On arrival you’ll be transferred by Amari Emerald Cove’s own transport to the resort, a 20-minute drive. Transfer from Trat Airport from £16 per person.

BANGKOK

★

Koh Chang

THAILAND

Amari Emerald Cove is a luxurious resort situated on a secluded beach. If its peace and tranquillity you need, then head to this resort with its oceanfront setting, grab a sun lounger, relax and enjoy the pristine white sands and some remarkable sunsets. Accommodation The Amari Emerald Cove features 165 hotel rooms tastefully decorated in a contemporary Thai style and all with a private terrace with tables and chairs. Superior rooms offer mountain views while the Deluxe rooms have stunning sea views. Activities and facilities Take the opportunity to explore Koh Chang’s beautiful coastline and nearby islands in a kayak. Full day guided tours are offered by a local company, located in the Resort’s shopping arcade. Free diving trials are offered in the Resort’s swimming pool, and full diving courses and diving trips operate from the beach. Relax on a full day Catamaran cruise to nearby islands. Includes lunch and snorkelling. There are also Thai cooking classes and massage classes as well as beach volleyball and yoga. Hotel facilities include a superb 50-metre swimming pool, fun pool with jacuzzi jets, a separate kids’ pool, a fitness centre and the Breeze spa which offers a complete range of massage, body and facial treatments.

Choice of three restaurants offering European and Thai cuisine. There is also a bar and poolside bar for light bites. For something really special, the Amari Emerald Cove provides guests with exclusive sunset dining. In a romantic setting on the beach overlooking the glistening ocean delight in an exquisitely crafted 5-course menu for two while watching the sunset and sipping on a glass of wine. This exclusive sunset dining option is available daily but subject to advance booking and weather conditions.

Offer Receive 4 nights for the price of 3 nights, 16 Apr – 31 Oct 12. Prices from £50 per person per night, including breakfast daily.

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KOH PHANGAN Located in the Gulf of Thailand, close to Koh Samui, the island of Koh Phangan is a perfect getaway retreat. Visitors can enjoy its pristine and deserted beaches, and seek out idyllic coves. It is close to the Marine National Park where there are some superb diving and snorkelling opportunities. ★★★★★

ANANTARA RASANANDA KOH PHANGAN VILLA RESORT & SPA Anantara Rasananda Villa Resort & Spa is an oasis of villas and suites sprawled over 200 metres of sea-view frontage, along the pristine white sands on Tong Nai Pan Noi Beach in north-east Koh Phangan. Just 35 minutes away from Koh Samui by speedboat. Accommodation 64 Villas and Suites all with individual pool and terrace or balcony. Garden Suites are surrounded by high walls and an age old wooden gate entrance; and offer 130 sq metres of indoor and outdoor living space. The Pool Suites are located on the 2nd floor and offer 100 sq metres of living space. The Thai Villa is a two-storey building with an open-air living space on the ground floor complete with giant hammock and pool, with a private bedroom on the higher level. Designed for utmost privacy and romance the 140 sq metre Lagoon Pool Villa stands alone with its own large terrace and sala with retractable doors. Activities and Facilities An activities sala offers a wide range of activities including complimentary watersports. Just some of the activities featured are diving, snorkelling, kayaking, elephant trekking, jungle trekking and regular excursions around the island. There is also a boutique gym equipped with the latest equipment. The library offers a place to relax and

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internet access should you have the need to stay in touch. Try your hand at the Thai cooking classes. The expansive main swimming pool features bubble beds and massage jets and the spa includes a massage service and yoga studio amongst an array of treatments on offer. The signature restaurant features both al fresco and covered seaside dining or alternatively you may opt for private beach or in-villa dining. Enjoy a drink at the hip glass swim-up pool bar or try Koh Phangan’s only wine cellar with a sea view.

How to get there There are regular flights from Bangkok to Koh Samui, a journey time of an hour. We can arrange for you to be met on arrival at Koh Samui Airport and transferred privately to the pier for a 35minute speedboat crossing to Koh Phangan. The Resort staff will greet you on arrival, and transfer you to the lobby for check-in. From £56 per person.

BANGKOK

★

Koh Phangan

Offer Receive up to 4 nights free. Offer dates vary, call for details. Prices from £84 per person per night, including breakfast daily.

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KOH SAMET Koh Samet is just a short drive and boat ride from Bangkok. Offering a beautiful natural habitat, this small island features a striking southern coastline and stunning white sandy beaches. Something of a secret, it’s well worth exploring, particularly for the views and amazing sunsets. ★★★★★

PARADEE How to get there There is a two-and-a-half hour drive from Bangkok to Ban Phe Pier, in the province of Rayong. This is followed by a 15-minute private speedboat to Koh Samet, where you’ll be met and transferred to the hotel. We can arrange for you to be met on arrival at Bangkok Airport and privately transferred to the pier for the boat journey, or alternatively collected from your Bangkok accommodation. From £81 per person.

BANGKOK

★

Koh Samet

THAILAND

Hidden away at the southern tip of Koh Samet, Paradee features two secluded palm-fringed beaches. This couples only resort offers a getaway-from-it-all atmosphere for discerning travellers. All 40 luxuriously appointed villas have magnificent views of either the lush tropical gardens, or white sandy beaches, some with private pools. Facilities include an infinity pool, spa, fitness room, library, restaurant, wine cellar and pool bar. Excellent watersports facilities and island excursions. Learn to dive on Ao Prao beach. Accommodation All 40 luxuriously appointed villas have magnificent views of either the lush tropical gardens, or white sandy beaches. The villas are a spacious 100 sqm and are stylishly furnished in natural materials. All villas include a private terrace, private pool with Jacuzzi (except the 10 garden villas), 24-hour room service, DVD stereo player and butler service to cater for your every whim. There is a choice of Garden villas (with or without a private pool) or the Beachfront pool villas.

Activities and facilities Watersports includes windsurfing, canoeing, snorkelling or catamaran sailing. Island excursions can be arranged and also deep-sea fishing trips are on offer. Learn to dive at the dive centre at Ao Prao beach. Hotel facilities include an infinity pool, spa, fitness room, DVD library, babysitting, internet corner and a library. The restaurant offers all-day dining, serving a fine selection of International and Thai cuisine and fine wines from the resort’s wine cellar. The pool bar is located by the infinity pool while the sunset bar is the perfect location for a cocktail as the sun sets over the western beach.

Offer Receive up to 4 nights free, year round (excluding 20 Dec – 10 Jan). Prices from £80 per person per night, including breakfast daily.

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KOH SAMET

★★★★

LE VIMARN COTTAGES & SPA Located by the southern headland of the beautiful Ao Prao beach on the west coast of the island of Koh Samet on a gentle slope overlooking a quiet bay, the stylish Le Vimarn is a boutique resort featuring deluxe cottages, honeymoon cottages and villas with a private spa. A dream location that will last in your memory for a lifetime.

Accommodation Le Vimarn has been created in the style of a tropical hillside village with 31 units comprised of Deluxe Cottages, and Villas with a private spa. Each unit is handsomely decorated in a distinctive island style, convenient and supremely comfortable. Teak rattan, bamboo and Thai woven fabrics create a charming ambience. Enjoy unforgettable sunsets, which you will view from your private balcony.

Activities and facilities Le Vimarn offers a wide range of activities for all guests. A blue calm sea for swimming or diving, a sandy beach on which to seek out the sun or provide a splendid jogging track. You can enjoy a beach massage. Windsurfing, sailing, canoeing, diving or excursions around the island. For experienced divers, the local dive centre has everything you need for a truly thrilling diving experience. For First-time divers, learn to dive with the friendly Thai & English speaking staff. All the dive instructors are fully certified PADI professionals, and the centre offers the best diving equipment on the island. For a pleasant evening, you can stroll the beachfront and participate in the island nightlife. Facilities include a spa and beachfront restaurant. Offer Up to 4 nights free, year round excluding 20 Dec – 10 Jan. Prices from £53 per person per night, including breakfast daily.

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KOH YAO Koh Yao is a quite unspoilt and largely untouched island set in lush tropical vegetation with a wonderfully remote feel. Located in Phang Nga Bay, the bay between Phuket and Krabi, it is world renowned for its unique limestone formations and pristine beaches.

★★★★★

THE PARADISE KOH YAO BOUTIQUE BEACH RESORT & SPA How to get there From Phuket Airport you can be met and transferred to the marina, a 15-minute drive. The boat goes directly to the Paradise Resort in a crossing of around 60 minutes. From £55 per person. From Krabi Airport you can be met and transferred on a 40-minute drive to the pier, followed by a 40-minute crossing. From £60 per person. Please note guests arriving at the airports later than 4pm cannot be transferred on the same day.

BANGKOK

★

Koh Yao

THAILAND

The Paradise Koh Yao Boutique Beach Resort is a collection of private villas and studios located adjacent to 400 metres of beach, providing year round natural luxury. Dramatic limestone rock formations and steep cliffs provide a spectacular setting for this quiet, back-to-nature resort. Accommodation Superior studios offer stunning views from the hillside overlooking the resort and provide plenty of space and an open sala living area. These studios are located in single or two-storey contemporary tropical-style buildings. Jacuzzi Studios include a private semi-outdoor jacuzzi, while the jacuzzi Deluxe rooms (pictured above) have the addition of a private sundeck. The Pool Villas include a private pool and a wonderful location with the sandy beach just steps away. Activities and facilities There is a brand new dive base on Koh Yao Island with excellent new equipment and dive masters with over 20 years experience. Day trips can be arranged to see the incredible underwater world of Phang Nga Bay. PADI Dive courses can be prearranged. There is a Rock Climbing School offering an introductory course or, for experienced climbers there is a range of over 50 climbs. From the resort beach there is canoeing, snorkelling and trekking and boat trips to the nearby deserted

islands for guided snorkelling opportunities. Fishing tours are available. Try elephant back riding on a trip through the jungle! For mountain bikers there are numerous trails throughout the island. Resort facilities include an infinity-edged pool with Jacuzzi and bubble bed, a kid’s pool and a spa. The main restaurant is nestled between shady trees, right on the beach with a covered area and additional seating on an open beach. The Al Fresco restaurant is also on the beach, under the shade of palm trees. The resort features Yoga and Wellbeing; a holistic approach to healthier living.

Offer Receive up to 7 nights free, 1 Apr – 31 Oct 12. Prices from £57 per person per night, including breakfast daily.

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KOH YAO

★★★★

KOH YAO YAI VILLAGE A private and serene resort gently residing beside the Andaman Sea, the Koh Yao Yai village provides a sanctuary nestled amongst lush sub-tropical rain forest, rice fields and rubber plantations. This Koh Yao hotel is just a 30 minutes speedboat ride away from Krabi or Phuket, yet a million miles away in terms of tranquility. Koh Yao Island captures a by-gone era where life flows at your own pace.

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Accommodation Featuring a choice of superb value-for-money family style villas or spacious bungalows, all accommodation is detached and situated within plenty of lush surrounding land to ensure maximum privacy. Activities and facilities Activities at Koh Yao Yai Village are endless and include on-site leisure facilities, island excursions and exploring off shore at islands nearby Phuket. There is something to keep everyone amused from the active adventurers to those seeking something a little less strenuous. Popular Koh Yao tours include an amazing island hopping tour with a visit to a deserted blue lagoon, spending a day with local fisherman offering a real life hands-on experience, exploring Phang Nga bay by sea canoe, a visit to a real floating village, discovering neighbouring Koh Yao Noi by bike and so much more. Facilities include two pools with Jacuzzi, spa, library, activities centre and an International dining restaurant.

Offer Receive a 5% discount when staying 14 nights, year round. Prices from £33 per person per night, including breakfast daily.

THAILAND

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MALAYSIA

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MALAYSIA

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MALAYSIA Malaysia offers a wealth of variety that reflects its diversity of cultures. There is so much to commend Malaysia. The climate is tropical, the beaches are perfect, the rainforest scenery is impressive, and Kuala Lumpur offers great shopping, dining and architecture. The wildlife of Borneo is amazing, and the people are friendly.

When to go Malaysia has a tropical Langkawi Kota Kinabalu climate and offers warm SABAH temperatures throughPenang out the year, with an avPangkor M A L AY S I A erage monthly KUALA LUMPUR temperature ranging be★ tween 23°C and 32°C. Tioman Kuching There is a clear eastwest split in the weather. The west coast islands of Penang, Langkawi BORNEO and Pangkor are at their Guide to the country best weather-wise durStart your Malaysia holiday in ing December to April, the capital, Kuala Lumpur. with the east coast enThis vibrant city offers a contrast in architectural styles with the joying drier weather from April to October. The rainy season for the impressive Petronas Towers standing alongside colonial buildings. west is April to October, while the east receives stormy monsoon The beach resorts of Penang and Langkawi in the west are wellweather during November and December. The best time to visit known, offering a good choice of hotels, set on sandy beaches. Borneo is March to October, with the wettest months being NovemTo the east there are the islands of Redang and Tioman, offering ber to February. The capital, Kuala Lumpur remains warm year superb diving and snorkelling. The east coast of the mainland round but has less rainfall during June to August. includes Kuala Terengganu, a region that features picturesque villages where religion and culture are very much a part of everyday Important to note life. Malaysian Borneo is a must-see, with its beaches, mountains British passport holders don’t need a visa unless (Mt.Kinabalu is one of the highest mountains in SE Asia) but above they are staying for more than 30 days and the all a wide range of nature, birds and wildlife. Here you can get up passport has at least six months validity remainclose to Orang-utans in Sabah. A great way to experience the couning. Malaysia is eight hours ahead of GMT. The try is on a self-drive itinerary. Driving is on the left, signs are in Engcurrency is Malaysian Ringitt. Vaccinations are not lish and the roads are of a good standard. This allows you to explore normally required unless you are venturing deep the lesser-known locations such as historic Malacca and the teainto the jungles of Borneo. For full details of vaccigrowing, colonial hill towns and villages of the Cameron Highlands. nation requirements contact your doctor. SA

W A

Getting there The National carrier, Malaysian Airlines flies direct from the UK to Malaysia. In addition there are several airlines offering in-direct flights to Kuala Lumpur via Dubai (Emirates), Singapore (Singapore Airlines) and Abu Dhabi (Etihad Airways) amongst others. The flying time is generally around 13 hours.

MALAYSIA AVERAGE MONTHLY TEMPERATURES AND RAINFALL (Temperatures in °Centigrade, Rainfall in millimetres) Jan Kuala Lumpur Penang Pangkor East Coast Borneo

°C 25 26 26 25 30

R 162 35 160 214 254

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Feb °C 27 28 27 26 31

R 170 31 96 112 203

Mar °C 27 27 27 23 31

R 231 38 123 133 279

Apr °C 27 29 27 27 31

R 276 162 158 124 279

May °C 27 27 27 28 32

R 196 347 124 112 279

Jun °C 27 27 27 27 31

R 126 212 78 111 254

Jul °C 27 28 26 27 30

R 128 263 97 119 203

Aug °C 27 28 26 27 31

R 140 263 129 148 229

Sep °C 26 27 26 27 31

R 194 419 154 170 229

Oct °C 26 27 26 27 31

R 266 304 231 307 279

Nov °C 26 27 26 26 30

R 280 206 210 664 305

Dec °C 26 27 26 25 30

R 227 51 188 556 279

MALAYSIA

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THE BEST OF MALAYSIA 7 day Self Drive Tour

The Cameron Highlands

You may explore the city by visiting the major attractions of St Paul’s Hill, the renowned Porta de Santiago and Jonker Street, known as Antique Street.

Experience the best of Malaysia on a seven day itinerary. Using exclusively top class, five star accommodation, self-drivers will

Day 3 Malacca to Kuala Lumpur 90 miles 2 hours. Drive to the capital, Kuala Lumpur. Check in to the five star, Ritz-Carlton Kuala Lumpur which enjoys a central location and easy access to the sights of the city.

know they will have a stylish hotel waiting for them at the end of each day’s adventure. Road Majestic Hotel Malacca

conditions are good, road signs are in English and driving is on the left. Included is an Avis group E vehicle (Toyota Altis 1.6 automatic or similar) with unlimited mileage. Extend your stay by a week with a drive to the east or west coast of Malaysia. See the Add-a-beach Offer on page 61.

MALAYSIA

Day 1 Kuala Lumpur Airport to Malacca 84 miles 2 hours. You will be met on arrival at Kuala Lumpur Airport by our local representative, who will assist you with the collection of your vehicle and provide you with advice. Drive to historical Malacca and check in to The Majestic Malacca for a two night stay. The Majestic dates back to the 1920s and features both new and historic architecture. Day 2 Malacca Founded in 1400, Malacca was successively ruled by the Portuguese, Dutch and the British, with a colourful history.

Kuala

SOUTH CHINA SEA

Cameron Terengganu Highlands

M A L AY S I A Pangkor

★ KUALA

LUMPUR

Malacca

STRAITS OF MALACCA

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THE BEST OF MALAYSIA 7 day Self Drive Tour

ADD-A-BEACH OFFER On day 7 you could drive to the west coast and drop the car off at Lumut, then stay at Pangkor Laut Resort (see page 82) for eight nights, returning to KL by private car transfer. Alternatively drive to the east coast and drop the car off at Kuala Terengganu, then stay at the Tanjong Jara Resort (see page 75) for 8 nights, returning to Kuala Terengganu by private car (we can arrange a flight from there to KL). One way drop off fee applies. Offer Add one of these beach stays and receive two free nights. Call for details.

Beach at the Tanjong Jara Resort

genteel of hill resorts, surrounded by lush greenery, rolling hills and Tudor-style cottages.

The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Kuala Lumpur

Day 4 Kuala Lumpur A full day to explore this modern metropolis. Perhaps we can pre-book you on the half day city tour which includes visits to Chinatown, the Lake Gardens and photo opportunities of the Royal Palace and the famous Petronas Twin Towers.

Day 6 Cameron Highlands The tea plantations are one of the must-see features of the Cameron Highlands. You can visit the factories to see the process of tea production. Some have shops where you can drink and buy tea and enjoy the wonderful views overlooking the plantations. Day 7 Cameron Highlands to Kuala Lumpur Airport 160 miles 4 hours. Return to Kuala Lumpur Airport to complete your itinerary. Price from £599 per person, based on twin share.

Day 5 Kuala Lumpur to the Cameron Highlands 137 miles 3 hours. A spectacular drive takes you up to beautiful highland scenery of waterfalls, streams and giant tree-ferns. Arrive at the Cameron Highlands Resort and checkin for a relaxing two-night stay. This luxurious resort, at 1467 metres above sea level is located in one of Malaysia’s largest and most

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YOUR CAR HIRE

Cameron Highlands Resort

Your car hire includes Unlimited kilometres, full maintenance, replacement vehicle, Super Collision Damage Waiver (Super CDW), Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) and Theft Protection (TP). Car as specified is fully licensed, coverage for third party property damage up to RM 3,000,000.00 unlimited coverage for third party injuries and passengers liability. Your car hire excludes Excess Clause (In the event the customer sustains damage to Avis vehicle or third party property, they are liable to pay the reduced Excess. Car Group – C & D RM 800.00, E RM 1000.00, F RM 1500.00, G/H&M RM 2000.00), Personal Accident Insurance (PAI), Super Personal Accident Insurance (SPAI) , Additional Driver’s Charges, Petrol, Refuel Charges, Drop Off / Repositioning fee at NON AVIS outlets, ferry charges / road tolls.

MALAYSIA

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KUALA LUMPUR Travel Kuala Lumpur’s International Airport is well served by over 50 international and domestic carriers. Located in Sapang, 34 miles south of Kuala Lumpur with a journey time of around an hour, KLIA is well connected to the city via express trains, taxis and buses. We can arrange for you to be met on arrival at the airport and private car transfer to your hotel from £20 per person. Getting around the city is easy; taxis are a very reasonable option. The new LRT system has numerous stations in the city providing a frequent service. Attractions No visitor should miss a visit to the top of the Kuala Lumpur Tower. This offers unique views of the city and helps with an early orientation. Of course you can’t fail to see the Petronas Twin Towers dominating the skyline and a visit to the shopping centre at its base is worthwhile. The Batu Caves provides an interesting

A modern, exciting capital, and home to the tallest twin-tower building in the

out-of-town trip to see this massive limestone outcrop and its cavernous interior, home to Hindu deities. Further afield a two-hour drive will take you to historical Malacca, the oldest trading port in Malaysia. When to go Kuala Lumpur is located close to the equator and is therefore warm to hot throughout the year with temperatures around 30-32°C. The highest rainfall occurs during February through to May, and September, October and November.

KUALA LUMPUR

world, Kuala Lumpur retains the charm of another era, evident in its domes,

Twin Towers Bus Station

Information

mosques and Moorish architecture.

Broad modern highways and glam-

KLCC Recreation Park

KL Towers

orous shopping centres contrast with colonial mansions and mosques.

Jade Museum Central Market

MALAYSIA

Bus & Taxi Stand

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KUALA LUMPUR Hotels

★★★★★

MANDARIN ORIENTAL HOTEL

SHANGRI-LA HOTEL KUALA LUMPUR

The Mandarin Oriental Hotel is a luxury hotel, centrally located in Kuala Lumpur with an enviable position between the flowering gardens of City Centre Park and the soaring heights of the Petronas Towers, with some of the finest city views in Kuala Lumpur. The hotel rooms offer beautiful and elegant interiors throughout. Club floor rooms are located on the higher floors and include access to the Club Lounge and other benefits. Hotel facilities include two pools, a spa and a choice of three restaurants.

The Shangri-La Hotel sits amidst lush tropical gardens 5 minutes' walk from the Petronas Twin Towers and the city's main shopping districts. All guestrooms are elegantly appointed. Horizon Club rooms on floors 20 23 are available with a supplement and inclusive of club acess. Free WiFi in the guestrooms, restaurants and public areas. Other hotel facilities include an outdoor pool, a kids' pool, sauna, steam room, tennis, Jacuzzi, fitness centre, café, poolside bar and a choice of restaurants.

Offer Free upgrade & breakfast when staying 4 nights. Conditions apply.

Offer Free breakfast when staying 2 nights. 1 Apr 12 – 31 Mar 13.

Prices from £77 per person per night, based on room only.

Prices from £59 per person per night, based on room only.

★★★★★

★★★★

THE RITZ-CARLTON, KUALA LUMPUR

TRADERS HOTEL KUALA LUMPUR

Located within the prestigious Golden Triangle district, The Ritz-Carlton, Kuala Lumpur offers easy access to the city's main entertainment area; Bukit Bintang. The 365 rooms and suites are well appointed and spacious and offer good city views throughout. The Ritz-Carlton is renown amongst regular travellers for its 24-hour butler service in every room. Facilities include a spa, choice of restaurants and bars and connecting shopping centre with an even greater range of dining options.

This contemporary, new generation hotel located in the heart of Kuala Lumpur city centre, offers direct access to the shopping and entertainment hub. All rooms are modern in design and include a choice of Deluxe rooms with either a city-skyline view or Twin Towers view facing the imposing Petronas Twin Towers. Facilities include two stylish restaurants, a rooftop open-air bar showing the perfect KL-by-night vista, a rooftop swimming pool with sundeck, jacuzzi, steam, sauna rooms, and free wifi.

Offer Receive a 5% discount for stays of 5 nights or more. Year round.

Offer Free breakfast when staying 2 nights or more, year round.

Prices from £76 per person per night, including breakfast daily.

Prices from £54 per person per night, based on room only.

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MALAYSIA

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BEYOND KUALA LUMPUR Tours

3 DAY MALACCA PRIVATE TOUR

3 DAY CAMERON HIGHLANDS PRIVATE TOUR

A relaxing two hour drive south of Kuala Lumpur will take you to historic Malacca, the oldest trading port in Malaysia. This interesting town has undergone Portuguese, Dutch and English rule and you'll have a chance to experience the many sights and sounds that bear witness to the different influences.

A spectacular three hour drive takes you up to the beautiful highland scenery of the Cameron Highlands. The cool climate, tea plantations, strawberry farms and Tudor Cottages of this charming hill station offer a pleasant break from the hustle and bustle of Kuala Lumpur.

Day 1 Kuala Lumpur to Malacca You will be picked up from your Kuala Lumpur hotel for a two hour, 84-mile journey by private car to the historic town of Malacca. Then check in to The Majestic Malacca for a 2 night stay in a Deluxe room including breakfast. Originally a serene mansion built in the 1920's, today the Majestic Malacca features a new building that mirrors the original, housing 54 spacious rooms and suites.

Day 1 Kuala Lumpur to the Cameron Highlands Early departure from your Kuala Lumpur hotel for a private car transfer to the Cameron Highlands, approximately 140 miles north of the capital. Check in the The Cameron Highlands Resort for a 2 night stay in a Deluxe room including breakfast. Set amidst tea plantations and rolling hills, this boutique hideaway promises all the splendour and romance of Cameron Highlands grand colonial heritage. Day 2 Cameron Highlands half day tour The tea plantations are one of the must-see features of the area. You can visit the factories to see the production. Some have shops and cafes where you can enjoy a cup of tea and the views. The resort fronts an 18-hole golf course.

Day 2 Malacca half day city tour Malacca's colourful history make it a delight to explore the city. Take in attractions such as St Paul's Hill, the renowned Porta de Santiago and Jonker Street, also known as Antique Street. Day 3 Malacca to Kuala Lumpur Morning at leisure before your private car transfer back to Kuala Lumpur, or to Kuala Lumpur Airport to complete your itinerary. Prices from £339 per person, based on twin share.

MALAYSIA

Day 3 Cameron Highlands to Kuala Lumpur Morning at leisure before your private car transfer back to Kuala Lumpur, or to Kuala Lumpur Airport to complete your itinerary.

Penang

Cameron Highlands

MALAYSI A

★

Prices from £330 per person, based on twin share.

KUALA LUMPUR

Malacca

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TAMAN NEGARA NATIONAL PARK 3 Day Private Tour

The first and oldest national park in the country is filled to the brim with exciting eco-tourism activities. Unspoilt and undisturbed, an unforgettable experience awaits you. A three hour car journey and exciting two hour boat journey takes you to the heart of the rainforest. Here you can enjoy a canopy walkway across the tops of the trees, a river trip through dense foliage and hiking in the jungle. This tour departs daily and includes all meals.

Kuala Terengganu Penang

Cameron Highlands

Taman Negara

MALAYSIA Kuala Lumpur

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Kuantan

Day 1 Kuala Lumpur to Taman Negara Early morning pick up from your Kuala Lumpur hotel and a private car overland journey to the river bank at Kuala Tembeling. From here, travel by outboard motor canoes (in a small group) to Kuala Tahan where the Park Headquarters is situated. The 2-hour upriver trip is fascinating as the jungle vegetation become dense upon arriving at Kuala Tahan in the late afternoon. After dinner, watch a video presentation and join the night Jungle Walk. Check in to your accommodation for 2 nights; Taman Negara Resort. All meals included. Overlooking the Tembeling and Tahan Rivers, this 4star property features Malaysian style wooden chalets with en suite facilities, air-conditioning and a verandah with either a river or forest view. Day 2 Taman Negara A full day in the National Park. The following activities are included in your tour and are subject to change due to weather conditions. A motorised canoe upstream to Lata Berkoh, the Canopy Walkway. After leaving your chalet, you have to walk a kilometre, before you come to the canopy walkway. Then a walk across a 500 metre man-made bridge, suspended 25 to 40 metres above the ground. It's the longest canopy walk of its kind in the world. The canopy walk gives you the opportunity to view the rich and diverse flora and fauna at the very summit of the forest. You will see: birds, monkeys and squirrels. A jungle trek to Teresik Hill to view Mount Tahan, the highest mountain in West Malaysia at 2178m above sea level and en-route stop at the Lubok Simpon water hole for a swim and

rest. At night, take the option of an animal "vigil" at the tree house. However, sighting of animals are not guaranteed. Day 3 Taman Negara - Kuala Lumpur Return journey by private transfer to Kuala Lumpur or to Kuala Lumpur International Airport.

Note Light comfortable clothing, jungle boots, a hat, raincoat, torch, sport shoes, swimming costumes, mosquito repellant and a sweater should be among the minimal necessity for this excursion. Most items can be purchased at Kuala Lumpur. Some of the tours are in small groups and not privately guided. Breakfast & Lunch included. Prices from ÂŁ425 per person for the 3 Day Tour, or ÂŁ528 per person for the 4 Day Tour. Based on twin share.

MALAYSIA

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PENANG Travel There are frequent scheduled flights from Kuala Lumpur to Penang. The airport is located 10 miles south of the capital, Georgetown, and 20 miles south of the main beach resort area of Batu Ferringhi with a journey time of around 50 minutes. We can arrange for you to be met on arrival at Penang Airport and transferred privately to your accommodation. From £10 per person.

at the night market in Batu Ferringhi, or the flea markets in Georgetown. The capital of the island, Georgetown, is a lively place to visit in the evenings; take a pedal-powered trishaw ride through the city’s narrow streets and see the largest collection of 18th and 19th century houses in south-east Asia. When to go Penang has an equatorial climate with temperatures ranging from a low of 22°C to a high of 30°C year round. The driest time to visit is January and February which is also the busiest period for visitors, with the wettest months from September to November.

Attractions The summit of Penang Hill, at 720 metres offers an interesting drive and breathtaking views of the Island. Penang is renowned for its markets. Shop for bargains

The Island of Penang, just off the northwest coast of Malaysia, holds a fascination for the sunseeker and historian alike.

Batu Ferringhi

2 Botanical Garden Fort Cornwallis

Penang Hill

While the white sandy beaches of Batu Ferringhi are renowned, Penang is actually the oldest British settlement in Malaysia and visitors will delight in the

Georgetown Kek Lok Si Temple

PENANG Penang Bridge

Snake Farm

historic capital Georgetown, a UNESCO World Heritage site. For a spectacular

Airport

view, take a trip up Penang Hill.

MALAYSIA

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PENANG Hotels

SHANGRI-LA’S RASA SAYANG RESORT & SPA ★★★★★

Situated along Batu Feringgi Beach, the iconic Shangri-La’s Rasa Sayang Resort and Spa sits within a 30-acre tropical landscaped garden. The resort comprises 304 guestrooms and suites, most of which have been extensively refurbished and expanded. Guests will enjoy a range of facilities such as complimentary Wi-Fi, a Par-3 executive golf course, a water sports centre, two swimming pools, Adventure Zone, CHI, The Spa, and restaurants and bars offering international and local cuisine. Offer Receive up to 3 nights free. Offer dates vary, call for details. Prices from £93 per person per night, including breakfast daily.

PARKROYAL HOTEL PENANG ★★★★★

The PARKROYAL Hotel Penang occupies a superb location on the beach at Batu Ferringhi, with the local night markets just a short stroll from the hotel. Set in spacious lush tropical grounds the PARKROYAL features two large swimming pools with plenty of space for loungers and places to relax. Choose from a Superior hillview room, or the larger Deluxe seafacing room. Family rooms can sleep up to four persons. Facilities include watersports, tennis, gym, a spa, kids’ club, two bars and three restaurants. Offer Receive up to 4 nights free. Offer dates vary, call for details. Prices from £49 per person per night, including breakfast daily.

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MALAYSIA

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LANGKAWI Travel There are regular flights to Langkawi from Kuala Lumpur, a flying time of an hour. The airport is in the west of the island, a 25 minute drive to the main town of Kuah, but transfer times vary greatly depending on the location of your accommodation. The Andaman and The Datai hotels are located 20 miles north of the airport with a transfer time of 40 minutes. We can arrange for you to be met on arrival and transferred privately to your hotel from £7 per person.

sky bridge and enjoy spectacular views. There are also jungle treks to be taken in the area. There is a very good half day island-hopping cruise that includes a visit to the beautiful Lake of the Pregnant Maiden. When to go Langkawi is warm all year round with temperatures around 30°C, occasionally dropping to 22°C. The hottest month is usually February and the coolest is October. The driest and so most popular period for visitors is from mid-November to April. The rainy season is from September to early November, though the rainfall is mixed with periods of sunshine.

Activities Take the cable car to the summit of a mountain at 700 metres to walk across the

Langkawi is an archipelago of 99 tropical islands but with one island in particular that plays host to a range of accommodation.

1 Waterfall

Located 20 miles off the north western coast of Malaysia, Langkawi is a beautiful

Gunung Mat Chincang

Padang Lalang

L A N G K AW I

but quiet island; ideal for relaxation but with very little in the way of nightlife

6 Crocodile Farm

Gunung Raya

Airport

Golf Club

Kuah

compared to its neighbour, Penang. Visitors will enjoy the miles of sandy beaches, ancient rainforests and quaint

5 Pulau Dayang Bunting

Pulau Tuba

villages that Langkawi has to offer.

MALAYSIA

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LANGKAWI Hotels

THE DATAI ★★★★★

The Datai is an outstanding hotel set in an ancient rainforest above a secluded sandy beach. This is an ideal choice for honeymooners or a couple wanting an idyllic break in a beautiful natural setting. Featuring 54 Deluxe rooms, 40 Villas and 16 Suites, all with sizeable bedrooms, living areas and verandahs which look out to the natural landscape. Facilities include two pools, a spa, health club, watersports, tennis, a library, bar and a choice of four restaurants. Offer Receive up to 3 nights free. 1 May – 19 Dec 2012. Prices from £181 per person per night, based on room only.

FOUR SEASONS RESORT LANGKAWI ★★★★★

The Four Seasons Resort Langkawi, set on Tanjung Rhu, one of Langkawi’s best beaches, highlights indigenous architecture combined with gracious service. The 90 guest villas and pavilions nestle amidst the resort’s lushly landscaped gardens. A stay at this resort includes a complimentary one hour walking tour with a naturalist and free non-motorised watersports. Hotel facilities includes two pools, fitness centre, tennis and spa. Excellent choice of three restaurants. Offer Receive up to 3 nights free. Offer dates vary, call for details. Prices from £169 per person per night, based on room only.

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MALAYSIA

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LANGKAWI Hotels

THE ANDAMAN LANGKAWI ★★★★★

Located on a magnificent sweep of private sandy beach, The Andaman Langkawi is a tropical paradise with spectacular views of ancient virgin rainforests and mountains beyond. Deluxe rooms offer a choice of rainforest or sea views (Deluxe Seaview room pictured). Facilities include a swimming pool, spa, kids’ club, and a games room with billiards and a mini library. Activities include watersports and nature walks. Beachfront bar and choice of restaurants. Offer Receive up to 4 nights free 1 Apr – 20 Dec 12. Prices from £97 per person per night, based on room only.

CASA DEL MAR ★★★★

Casa Del Mar is a boutique hotel on beautiful Pantai Cenang beach, just a 10-minute drive from the airport and within walking distance to local cafes, shops and restaurants. From its Mediterranean architecture to its relaxed and comfortable interior, Casa Del Mar is a perfect oasis for couples looking for a private and peaceful retreat. All rooms are sea-facing with floor-to-ceiling sliding picture windows. Facilities include a pool, a pool bar, a spa, a wine bar and an excellent beachside restaurant. Offer Receive a free afternoon tea for 2 when staying 14 nights. Prices from £81 per person per night, including breakfast daily.

MALAYSIA

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LANGKAWI Hotels

MERITUS PELANGI BEACH RESORT & SPA ★★★★

The Meritus Pelangi Beach Resort is located along the beautiful and scenic stretch of the famous Cenang white sandy beach. The breathtaking view begins the minute you step into the lobby and continues throughout the 31 acres of award-winning landscaped garden. Raised on stilts, all guest rooms feature balconies, with either garden, pool or sea views. Facilities include two outdoor swimming pools, a fitness centre, a spa, tennis, squash, a kids’ club and two bars and choice of three restaurants. Offer Receive up to 6 nights free. Offer dates vary, call for details. Prices from £40 per person per night, based on room only.

TANJUNG RHU RESORT ★★★★★

Located on one of the world’s best beaches, the Tanjung Rhu Resort offers tranquillity and romance in Northern Langkawi. With absolute beachfront facing a two-kilometre private beach guests will enjoy stunning views towards limestone peaks rising out of the ocean. The 136 rooms offer a choice of garden or sea views. Facilities include a choice of restaurants and bars, 3 pools, a spa, fitness centre, non-motorised watersports and tennis. Bed and breakfast or all-inclusive options at this property. Offer Receive 7 nights for the price of 6 nights, year round. Prices from £186 per person per night including all meals, non-alcoholic drinks and transfers.

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MALAYSIA

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EAST COAST MALAYSIA Travel To reach Tanjong Jara Resort, fly from Kuala Lumpur to Kuala Terengganu. We can arrange for you to be met there and transferred privately to the Resort; a journey time of around an hour. From £31 per person. Redang Island is a 75minute flight from Kuala Lumpur’s Subang Airport, operated with a daily service by Berjaya Air. Tioman Island is a one hour flight from Kuala Lumpur, also operated daily by Berjaya Air and departing from Subang Airport. We can arrange these flights, but also a private car

Redang Kuala Terengganu

MA L AY S I A Kuantan Kuala Lumpur

Tioman

transfer between KL’s International Airport and Subang Airport. Prices on request. When to go The East Coast has a particularly diverse climate with two clear seasons. The best time to visit is from April to October, when the weather is at its driest. This is also the only period when snorkelers and divers will enjoy clear waters and good visibility. The monsoon season affects the eastern coastline and islands from November through to February with strong winds and rain.

Malaysia’s east coast has some of its best beaches and excellent scuba diving. Tanjong Jara Resort is located close to the town of Kuala Terengganu, in a region renowned for its peaceful way of life and picturesque villages. Redang Island, set 30 miles off the coast, has crystal clear water, white sandy beaches and some of the best coral diving in Malaysia. Tioman Island, close to Kuantan, is blessed with great beaches and ringed by white coral.

MALAYSIA

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EAST COAST MALAYSIA Hotels

JAPAMALA TIOMAN ISLAND ★★★★

Fashionably rustic, Japamala is a boutique resort with true seclusion, set amidst 11 acres of lush wilderness and flanked by an inviting beach. Open all year round the location on the south west corner of Tioman Island means it is mostly sheltered from the east coast monsoon (Nov-Feb). Charming villas and chalets are either hidden amidst luxuriant greenery, or perched high above the lagoon. Activities and facilities include scuba-diving, kayaking, jungle-trekking, pool, spa, library and restaurant. Offer Receive a 5% discount when staying 7 nights or more, year round. Prices from £53 per person per night, including breakfast daily.

THE TAARAS BEACH & SPA RESORT REDANG ★★★★★

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Beautiful powder white beaches with pristine blue waters and lush tropical rainforest are just some of the attractions of magical Redang Island. Located off the east coast off Malaysia, Redang has one of the best coral and marine ecosystems in the country; superb for snorkelling and diving. 188 spacious rooms with a choice of hill or sea views. Facilities include a swimming pool, gym, tennis, watersports, three bars and a seafood restaurant. There is also an excellent PADI dive centre. Offer Free room upgrade for honeymooners, year round. Prices from £122 per person per night, including breakfast daily.

MALAYSIA

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EAST COAST MALAYSIA

Tanjong Jara Resort

MALAYSIA

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EAST COAST MALAYSIA

★★★★★

TANJONG JARA RESORT Set on the East Coast of Peninsular Malaysia, Tanjong Jara Resort is a sanctuary of luxury and well-being steeped in age-old Malay traditions. The Resort’s elegantly crafted wooden buildings rest on a 17-hectare site facing the South China Sea. Designed to reflect the grandeur of 17th century Malay palaces, this 99-room resort offers an authentic taste of the region’s spirit. The Resort is located between Kuala Terengganu in the North and Kuantan in the South. The riverine town of Dungun lies west of Tanjong Jara and is eight kms away. Accommodation Situated on the upper floor of double storey units that look out onto tropical landscaped gardens or blue sea and sky, the Bumbung rooms are constructed from warm timber in traditional Malay style. Located on the ground floor of a double storey unit, Serambi rooms include a partially covered verandah that overlooks the tropical gardens. The single storey semi-detached Anjung rooms (pictured) are beach cottages offering sea views.

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Facilities and activities Tanjong Jara Resort includes two pools, tennis, bike hire, river cruises, cooking classes, an award-winning Spa Village, three restaurants, bars and a library. Diving and snorkelling are available from March to October.

Offer Receive 4 nights for the price of 3 nights. 1 May – 31 Oct 12. Prices from £49 per person per night, including breakfast daily.

MALAYSIA

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BORNEO Travel There are no direct flights to Kota Kinabalu from the UK, but the airport is well served with scheduled flights via Asian hubs, such as Kuala Lumpur and Singapore. Flying time from Kuala Lumpur is 212 hours. The airport is five miles from Kota Kinabalu. We can arrange for you to be met on arrival and transferred privately to your accommodation. Prices vary according to the distance from the airport to the accommodation. Ask us for details.

stay at Shangri-La’s Rasa Ria which has its own orang-utan sanctuary. Sipadan has superb diving. Day trips can be made to visit Mt.Kinabalu, and for the adventurous a 3 day trek to the very summit can be arranged (advance pre-booking essential). The Danum Valley is set amidst a vast tropical rainforest with great opportunity to see orang-utans and monkeys. When to go Borneo is at its best during March to October. The rainy season is usually from November through to February, but during this time you can expect sunshine amidst the downpours. Expect hot and humid weather all year round.

Activities Most visitors will want to see Borneo’s icon, the orangutan. This can be done with a day trip to the Sepilok OrangUtan Centre, at Sandakan, or a

Divided from Peninsula Malaysia by the

Mt Kinabalu Kota Kinabalu

South China Sea is the island of Borneo.

Sepilok EI

N RU

Sabah is one of two Malaysian states on

the island and is located on the north-east coast. Its capital, Kota Kinabalu serves as

SABAH

Kuching

the gateway to the attractions of Borneo, including the orang-utan and the country’s

BORNEO

highest mountain, Mt. Kinabalu which, at 4095 metres, dominates the surrounding jungle-covered hills.

MALAYSIA

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BORNEO Hotels

GAYA ISLAND RESORT ★★★★★

Located just 15 minutes off the coast of Kota Kinabalu, the brand new Gaya Island Resort is situated on Pulau Gaya, an island set in a natural marine conservation area. The resort is fringed by a golden beach, verdant jungle, surrounded by coral reefs and enjoys views toward majestic Mt. Kinabalu. Accommodation is spread throughout lush rainforest and features 120 hill villas and a two-bedroom suite. Facilities include a remarkable spa set in a mangrove, a pool, bar and choice of restaurants. Offer Receive 4 nights for the price of 3 nights. Offer dates vary, call for details. Prices from £90 per person per night, including breakfast daily.

BUNGA RAYA ISLAND RESORT ★★★★★

Bunga Raya Island Resort is a luxurious jewel set on a coral reef island just off the coast of Borneo and a 30 minute car and boat journey from Kota Kinabalu. A secluded island hideaway of 47 timbered villas, it is framed by white sand beach and virgin jungle. Hillside villas reflect the simplicity of the Borneo architectural style. A hilltop spa blends the finest Traditional Asian and Western treatments using restorative powers of indigenous plants and oils. Free boat to sister hotel, Gayana Eco Resort. Offer Free roundtrip deluxe boat transfers, year round. Prices from £158 per person per night, including breakfast daily.

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BORNEO Hotels

SHANGRI-LA’S RASA RIA RESORT ★★★★★

Shangri-La’s Rasa Ria Resort faces a 3-kilometre long sweep of pristine, white sandy beach, backed by forested hills. Uniquely includes a 64-acre conservation nature reserve where guests can view the twice daily feeding of Orang Utan (small fee). Choose from newly refurbished Garden Wing or the more luxurious Ocean Wing accommodation (breakfast included). Facilities include a pool for each wing, kids’ club and pool, an 18-hole golf course, spa, fitness centre, tennis, watersports, bars and restaurants. Offer Receive up to 2 nights free. Offer dates vary, call for details. Prices from £62 per person per night, based on room only.

SHANGRI-LA’S TANJUNG ARU RESORT & SPA ★★★★★

MALAYSIA

With a private beach, views of the coral islands and just five minutes drive from the centre of Kota Kinabalu and ten minutes drive from the airport, Shangri-La’s Tanjung Aru offers luxury and relaxation in a great location. Kinabalu seaview rooms offer views of the ocean and Mt Kinabalu while Tanjung Wing rooms face the ocean. Facilities include an infinity and lap pool, health club, CHI Spa, sauna, jacuzzi, nine-hole golf course, tennis, bike hire, watersports, bar and restaurants. Offer Receive 2 nights free. Offer dates vary, call for details. Prices from £66 per person per night, based on room only.

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BEST OF BORNEO 11 day Tour

Experience the best that Borneo has to offer. Borneo features a great combination for a memorable holiday. Spend time on the superb sandy beaches with excellent snorkelling and watersports facilities with the chance to see Orang utan up close. You may have the chance to witness the turtles laying their eggs on Turtle Island. Included is private airport transfers, accommodation as shown, a return flight within Borneo and touring as shown. International flights not included. Departs daily.

Mt Kinabalu Kota Kinabalu EI

Kuching

BORNEO

Sepilok SABAH

Day 1 Arrive Borneo You’ll be met on arrival at Kota Kinabalu Airport and privately transferred to Shangri-La’s Tanjung Aru. A five star hotel located just a five-minute drive from the centre of the city and a ten-minute drive from the airport. Day 2 Kota Kinabalu Full day at leisure to enjoy the hotel facilities or some shopping and sightseeing in Kota Kinabalu.

orang utans are coached to enable them to return to their natural habitat. Return to Kota Kinabalu and check in to the five-star ShangriLa Rasa Ria Resort for a 7 night stay. Days 5- 10 At leisure A full six days of relaxation and fun. Enjoy the expansive sweep of sandy beach, the wide range of watersports and activities such as horse riding or quad biking. Guests of the hotel have exclusive access

Day 3 Turtle Island Take the morning flight to Sandakan followed by a transfer to the jetty for a boat ride (approximately an hour) to Libaran Island. Check in and relax before lunch. Enjoy the sun, sea and sand or snorkel around the island. In the afternoon take a boat to nearby Turtle Island and prepare to watch part of the complex life cycle of the green turtle as the huge adults come ashore to lay their eggs. Note the release of little turtle hatchlings at Turtle Island is not guaranteed. Then, if you are lucky, you may have the opportunity to release the little hatchlings from the hatchery to the sea. Return to Libaran Island Lodge for your overnight stay. Note this accommodation is basic. Day 4 Sepilok Orang utans After breakfast, journey back to Sandakan in time to catch the feeding of the Orang utans at the Sepilok Orang utan Rehabilitation Centre, where young

to the resort’s own Nature Reserve where twice-daily young Orang utans are fed. For a small fee (payable locally) you can enjoy a short guided walk through rainforest to a viewing platform and get close to the Orang utans. Day 11 Depart Borneo Short, private transfer to the airport to complete your Borneo itinerary. Prices from £999 per person, based on twin share.

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BORNEO Tours

2 DAY TURTLE ISLAND AND ORANG UTANS TOUR Take a side-trip from the beaches of Borneo with this two-day tour. Stay a night on Libaran Island and visit nearby Turtle Island where you may witness the turtles as they come ashore. Then on to the renown Sepilok Orang utan Centre where you can see the feeding of the Orang utans. This short, smallgroup escorted tour includes airport transfers from your hotel, a return flight from Kota Kinabalu to Sandakan, basic accommodation on Libaran Island and meals (lunch and dinner on day one and breakfast on day two). Please note that accom-

modation on Libaran Island is limited, therefore advanced booking of this tour is highly recommended. Day 1 Turtle Island Early morning pick up from your hotel, transfer to the airport at Kota Kinabalu and short flight to Sandakan. Transfer to Libaran Island (about a one hour crossing) and check-in for your one night stay. This lodge offers basic beach accommodation and is the only resort on the island. The lodge is built from local materials with attached bathroom and fan. Explore the nearby village and observe life in a fishermen’s village. In the late afternoon, take a boat ride to Selingan Turtle Island. Watch turtle laying eggs on the beach, transfer of the eggs to the hatchery and release of hatchlings to the sea. Return to Libaran Island for your overnight stay. Day 2 Orang utans After breakfast, return to the mainland and proceed to the Sepilok Orang Utan Centre. Witness the feeding of orphaned Orang utans. Walk along a jungle trail and observe the tropical lowland rainforest. Return to Sandakan Airport for your flight back to Kota Kinabalu. Transfer back to your hotel.

Prices from £484 per person, based on twin share.

3 DAY TURTLE ISLAND, SUKAU AND ORANG UTANS TOUR A three day small group tour that includes The Gomantong Caves, the Kinabatangan River and Sukau and the Sepilok Orang Utan Centre. A short tour of the city of Sandakan is also included. This is an extraordinary wildlife tour providing memorable sights and experiences. This escorted tour includes airport transfers from your hotel, a return flight from Kota Kinabalu to Sandakan, basic accommodation on Libaran Island and at Sukau River Lodge and meals (lunch and dinner on day one, all meals on day two and breakfast and lunch on day three). Note that accommodation is limited, so advanced booking is highly recommended. Day 1 Sandakan - Libaran Island - Turtle Island Morning transfer and flight to Sandakan to board the boat for Libaran Island. Check into your accommodation. Explore the nearby village and observe life in a fishermen’s village. Late afternoon, take a boat ride to Turtle Island. Watch turtles laying eggs on the beach and the release of hatchlings to the sea. Return to Libaran Island for overnight. Day 2 Libaran Island - Gomantong Cave - Sukau Kinabatangan River After breakfast, return to mainland and visit Gomantong Caves, the biggest bird’s nest caves in Sabah where the bizarre edible bird's nest is harvested. The caves are also home to more than a million bats. The birdlife around the cave is particularly rich, with crested serpent eagles, kingfishers, Asian fairy bluebirds and leaf birds often sighted. Continue the journey to the village of Sukau by the Kinabatangan River. Check in to Sukau River Lodge. Boat trip to watch the curious proboscis monkeys gather by the river bank. If weather permits, night walk to search for stick insects, frogs and beetles. Stay overnight at the Sukau River Lodge. Day 3 Sepilok Orang Utan Centre - Sandakan City After breakfast, return to mainland and proceed to the Sepilok Orang Utan Centre. Witness the feeding of orphaned orang utans. Walk along a jungle trail and observe the tropical lowland rainforest. After lunch, proceed to the Observation Pavilion for a bird eye view of Sandakan and visit a local market before your flight back to Kota Kinabalu. Prices from £698 per person, based on twin share.

MALAYSIA

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BORNEO Tours

7 DAY WILDLIFE TOUR OF BORNEO

3 DAY MOUNT KINABALU CLIMB

On this highly recommended tour you can see Orang Utan, sea turtles, proboscis monkeys, caves, rainforest and one of the highest mountains in south-east Asia. Stay in unique, comfortable rainforest lodges, with all meals included.

Standing majestically at 4095m, Mount Kinabalu is one of the highest mountains in South East Asia. No special skills or equipment are needed for the climb, but climbers should have an average fitness and be healthy. Advanced booking is essential, as this climb is very popular. Full details can be provided. Includes all meals.

Day 1 Kinabalu National Park Travel to the headquarters of Mt Kinabalu National Park and enjoy spectacular views. Explore one of the many trails through the forest. Stay two nights at the Wildlife Mountain Lodge. Day 2 Poring Hot Springs Take a short trek on the Canopy Walkway, suspended between trees it offers a bird’s eye view of the rainforest.

Day 1 Kota Kinabalu / Kinabalu Park Morning pick up from your hotel and travel 2 hours along the ridges of the Crocker Range to Kinabalu Park. Guided nature walk for flora and fauna with your nature guide. Lunch at Mountain Lodge. After lunch, proceed back to Kinabalu National Park for video presentation and guided walk to the mountain garden to see a rare collection of mountain plants and flowers. Overnight at Wildlife Mountain Lodge (pictured).

Day 3 Sukau Visit the Gomantong Caves, home to more than a million bats. Stay two nights at the Sukau River Lodge. Day 4 Kinabatangan River Enjoy a boat trip in this area renowned for the greatest concentration of wildlife in Borneo. You may view Orang Utans, red/silver leaf monkeys, elephants, crocodiles and rare Proboscis Monkeys. Day 5 Libaran Island Join a glass bottom boat cruise or snorkel at the nearby marine islands to see colourful corals and fishes of the Sulu Sea. Afternoon walk to a nearby fishermans’s village. Overnight Libaran Island Lodge. Day 6 Selingan Turtle Island Turtle Island is the most important breeding Marine Park in south east Asia. It is a rare experience to witness hugh green turtles lumber ashore most nights to dig a hole and lay around 100 eggs. Overnight Selingan Island Chalet. Day 7 Sepilok Orang Utan Centre Visit the famous Sepilok Orang Utan Centre to see the rehabilitation of once captive Orang Utans. Return to Kota Kinabalu by air to complete your itinerary. Price from £1450 per person, based on twin share.

Day 2 Summit Trail After breakfast, register names with the Park Office for the climb, then proceed to the start of the summit trail at the Power Station. Trek up to Laban Rata and enjoy a packed lunch along the way. Look out for the pitcher plants and orchids along the way. Dinner and overnight at Laban Rata Resthouse (shared dormitory). Day 3 Summit Trail / Kota Kinabalu At 3am, proceed from Laban Rata to the summit of Mt. Kinabalu. You should arrive in time for sunrise, descend to the Resthouse for breakfast before descending to the Park. After lunch, return to Kota Kinabalu and transfer to your hotel. Price from £421 per person, based on twin-share.

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PANGKOR LAUT Pangkor is an island located off the coast of Lumut, on the west side of Peninsula Malaysia and offers some of the world’s finest beaches. The internationally acclaimed Pangkor Laut Resort occupies an entire island and pampers like no other.

★★★★★

PANGKOR LAUT RESORT How to get there Lumut is the gateway to Pangkor - a 4 hour drive from Kuala Lumpur airport. From Lumut there is a scheduled speedboat service to Pangkor Laut (30-minute crossing, six times a day). Pangkor Laut Resort also offers a 24-hour speedboat service, price on request. We can arrange for you to be met at KL Airport (or collected from KL accommodation) and privately transferred by car to Lumut, to meet the pre-booked ferry transfer.

Pangkor Laut is a privately owned island of secluded bays and pristine beaches located three miles off the west coast of Malaysia. Situated on this exotic island is the award-winning Pangkor Laut Resort which features a range of traditional villas and suites. Nearby Emerald Bay, the resort’s private beach has often been cited as one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. With no other resorts on the island, guests of the exclusive Pangkor Laut Resort have the island to themselves. Accommodation The signature Sea villas stand elegantly on stilts over the sea. Each private villa is airy and spacious and linked by a wooden walkway. Garden and Hill villas offer superb views of the rainforest. Beach villas are just steps away from the white sandy beach with views of the sea. Spa villas are raised on stilts over the sea but have the benefit of direct access to the Spa Village. All rooms include a huge bathtub and shower, and a balcony with deckchairs.

Penang

M ALAYSI A

Pangkor Kuala Lumpur

MALAYSIA

Activities and facilities Accompany the resort’s resident naturalist on a guided walk through the rainforest. Choose to explore the island on a kayak or chase the wind on water-skis. Enjoy a sunset cruise on the resort’s stylish teakwood boat. Guests can play golf at the Damai Laut Golf and Country Club located on the

mainland. Adventurous fishing trips and island excursions are available. For more peaceful activities there is Tai Chi, Yoga, cooking classes and batik painting classes. Hotel facilities include two swimming pools (one only for spa guests) a jet pool and cold dip, gymnasium, tennis, squash and spa treatments at Spa Village. Having recently undergone an extensive refurbishment this resort offers many fine dining opportunities with a wide range of restaurants offering cuisine from around the world.

Offer Receive 7 nights for the price of 6. Offer dates vary, call for details. Prices from £98 per person per night, including breakfast daily.

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PANGKOR LAUT

★★★★★

THE ESTATES AT PANGKOR LAUT There are few places on earth like The Estates on the island of Pangkor Laut. This is a destination absolutely unique in both its environment and the experience it offers - a retreat that is both pure privacy and privilege. Located on the privately owned island of Pangkor Laut, off the west coast of Malaysia, The Estates reflect a South East Asian past that integrates beauty, luxury and comfort.

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Accommodation Eight secluded estates have been created three resting on the beautiful waterfront of Marina Bay, allowing visitors the pleasure of a private beach; whilst the others are designed to blend seamlessly into the jungle on the hillside - overlooking the ocean, and offering total privacy. Polished tropical hardwood floors are accented by textured fabrics that add warmth to the elegant bedrooms with their podium beds; whilst bathrooms and vanity areas are wonderfully spacious, and crafted with fine attention to detail. The experience is pure escape. Each and every individual Estate is a unique experience - tailored to blend comfortably and stylishly into its natural environment with a pool surrounded by a collection of villas, dining and living pavilions. Every Estate has a personal chef who cooks and serves meals, and its own butler who unobtrusively coordinates all aspects of your stay. Each Estate has a private vehicle and driver should guests wish to dine in one of the Resort's restaurants, or have a treatment at the Spa Village.

Getting there The Estates’ helicopters fly between Subang Airport and Pangkor Laut; or the island can be reached by taking a limousine from the city to the village of Lumut, then boarding the YTL Lady, a luxurious motoryacht that brings guests directly to the island.

Prices Prices from £213 per person per night including food and non-alcoholic refreshments consumed at the Estate, laundry and return luxury boat transfer between Lumut and Pangkor.

MALAYSIA

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BALI

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BALI

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BALI Bali, the ‘Island of the Gods’, is one of 17,000 islands that make up Indonesia. Lying approximately 10° south of the Equator, it is a country with a rich cultural tradition offering a myriad of delights for the visitor: golden beaches, lush green rice terraces, unique arts and crafts, and a friendly and hospitable people.

Getting there There are flights into Bali’s Denpasar Airport from Singapore, Bangkok, Hong Kong, Kuala Lumpur and Tokyo. There are no direct flights from the UK, so most UK visitors combine a Bali stay with a city break in one of the above transit points. Flying time is approximately 15 hours but varies according to the transit city.

When to go With its proximity to the Equator, Bali is hot and generally sunny all year round, with temperatures averaging between the high 20c and low 30c. The dry season is May to September, with the monsoon season from October to April, when short, sharp downpours mix with sunshine. February and March can be particularly hot and humid. May, June and July are usually considered to be the best months for a holiday in Bali. Bear in mind that evenings and nights can be cool up in the hills of Ubud.

BALI Ubud

DENPASAR Seminyak

★

Sanur

Lembongan Island

Kuta Nusa Dua

TR MA

Guide to the country The Indonesia island of Bali offers some superb beaches. Nusa Dua is Bali’s prime tourist resort and has been landscaped into MALAYSIA beautiful gardens providing the setting for a BORNEO range of beachfront upmarket hotels. Sanur Beach is wide and sandy. Seminyak is located close to the busy resort of Kuta, but is quiet and sophisticated and offers a good JAVA choice of restaurants. Jimbaran is much quieter but with a safe swimming beach and BALI chic restaurants. Ubud, 20 miles inland from Bali Airport, is 600m above sea level. A collection of traditional villages, set in the lush, green countryside, Ubud offers superb hill and valley views and an interesting alternative to the beaches and is renowned as a centre for arts and crafts. The rest of the island offers spectacular scenery and is much less developed for tourism, rewarding visitors with a more authentic Balinese experience. Situated 34 miles to the east of Bali, lies the island of Lombok, a 25-minute flight. Though relatively new to tourism, Lombok is fast emerging as one of Indonesia’s best kept secrets.

INDONESIA

Important to note A visa is required, issued on arrival at the airport. You will need to have $US25 in cash handy for this. Your passport must have at least six months validity remaining. Bali is eight hours ahead of GMT. The currency is Indonesian Rupiah, but you are advised to bring US Dollars with you. Vaccinations are not essential for visitors to Bali but contact your doctor for full details. Nyepi Day (23 March 2012) is silence day – a very important ritual for the Balinese. Note that on this day travel is not permitted so it is best to avoid arriving, or departing Bali on this day.

BALI AVERAGE MONTHLY TEMPERATURES AND RAINFALL (Temperatures in °Centigrade, Rainfall in millimetres) Jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

May

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep

Oct

Nov

Dec

°C R 28 340

°C R 28 277

°C R 28 197

°C R 29 92

°C R 28 75

°C R 28 68

°C R 27 47

°C R 27 25

°C R 27 48

°C R 27 100

°C R 28 173

°C R 29 299

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BALI

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BALI Hotels

CONRAD BALI RESORT & SPA ★★★★★

The Conrad Bali hotel is conveniently situated only 10 kilometres from the International Airport and is adjacent to the Nusa Dua resort area. Nestled in 6.8 acres of secluded tropical gardens with cascading waterfalls and a pristine 350 metre beach the Conrad features 360 guestrooms and suites overlooking the ocean, lagoons, resort or gardens. Facilities include a 33-metre pool, jogging track with landscaped gardens, floodlit tennis courts, kids’ club, fitness Club and spa. Three restaurants, a café and bar. Offer 7 nights for the price of 6 nights. Offer dates vary, call for details. Prices from £79 per person per night, including breakfast daily.

ANANTARA SEMINYAK RESORT AND SPA ★★★★★

Set on prime beachfront, surrounded by the natural beauty of the Seminyak coast, the Anantara is a luxury retreat just steps from the Indian Ocean and Seminyak village, an elegant outpost of chic restaurants and boutiques. The 59 luxurious suites (and one penthouse) feature a Balinese-style decor and ceiling-to-floor doors and windows, large balconies with terrazzo tubs and views of the ocean. Facilities include three pools including an infinity-edged pool, spa, gym and a choice of restaurants. Offer Receive 10 nights for the price of 8. Offer dates vary, call for details. Prices from £140 per person per night, including breakfast.

BALI

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BALI Hotels

SPA VILLAGE RESORT TEMBOK, BALI ★★★★★

Spa Village Resort Tembok, Bali is a 31-room resort located in the beautiful village of Tembok on the pristine northern part of the island. This is a resort for those seeking a sanctuary away from the pressures of the world. Choose from a range of experiences; massage therapy and treatments, creative stimulation or a range of exercises, and all in a landscape of natural beauty. Spa, pool, gym, yoga, and an open restaurant with stunning sea views. Excursions include diving and snorkelling. Kamar room pictured. Offer 5 nights for the price of 4 nights. Offer dates vary, call for details. Prices from £102 per person per night including 3 meals per day and a daily massage.

NUSA DUA BEACH HOTEL & SPA ★★★★★

Superbly located on exclusive Nusa Dua beach, the luxurious Nusa Dua Beach Hotel and Spa (a member of the Leading Hotels of the World group) offers real Balinese style, set in 23 acres of sculptured gardens. With the elegance of a Balinese palace and classical interiors to match, the 381 rooms feature stunning garden views or vistas of the Indian Ocean. Hotel facilities include three pools, a kids’ pool and club, a fitness centre, a spa, watersports and a choice of four bars and five restaurants. Offer Receive up to 2 nights free. Offer dates vary, call for details. Prices from £72 per person per night, including breakfast daily.

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BALI

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BALI Hotels

ROYAL BEACH SEMINYAK BALI ★★★★★

Situated on the exclusive Seminyak Beach, the 128 room The Royal Beach Seminyak Bali is set amongst 4.5 hectares of tropical gardens. Along with two stunning pools, one right on the beach and another tucked into the garden area, the resort hotel offers 17 secluded villas, each boasting a private whirlpool or swimming pool. The Royal Beach Seminyak Bali is within walking distance of Seminyak Village, home to some of the trendiest bars, restaurants and shops in Bali. Offer Honeymooners receive a cake, flower and photo frame. Year round. Prices from £66 per person per night, including breakfast daily.

BALI HYATT ★★★★★

Set on the beautiful, gleaming white sands of Sanur beach, the Bali Hyatt faces a tranquil lagoon, fringed as far as the eye can see by a coral reef, and set amongst 36 acres of beautifully landscaped gardens. Choice of Gardenview or Oceanview rooms. Hotel facilities include a Balinese village-style Spa, swimming pool, Jacuzzi, tennis, fitness centre, watersports and kids club. Wide choice of bars and restaurants. Free shuttle bus to the sister hotel, Grand Hyatt. Offer Receive a 50% discount for 2nd family room. Valid year round. Prices from £38 per person per night, based on room only.

BALI

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BALI Hotels

BALI PAVILIONS ★★★★★

The Bali Pavilions are 23 private villas, most with a private pool, located in Sanur, close to a stunning lagoon that is fringed by an extensive reef, and bordered on the other side by a long white beach (a few minutes walk). Each villa has a private entrance, private patio and sundeck area and are surrounded by tropical gardens. The two bedroom villa has a full kitchen and is ideal for families. Facilities include a pool, spa and restaurant. A short walk to Sanur offers a good choice of bars, cafés and restaurants. Offer Receive 1 night free. Offer dates vary, call for details. Prices from £75 per person per night, including breakfast daily.

PURI SANTRIAN BEACH RESORT & SPA ★★★★

The Puri Santrian Hotel is situated along the coast of upscale Sanur on the tranquil south-eastern side of the island. Sanur offers a range of bars and restaurants close to the hotel. This family owned and operated hotel offers a choice of room types with either garden or beach views, spacious bungalows include 2 rooms under one roof and the luxurious Santrian Club Wing with its own pool and stylish rooms (breakfast included). Facilities include a pool, spa, watersports, bar and two restaurants. Offer Receive up to 3 nights free. Dates vary, call for details. Prices from £40 per person per night, based on room only.

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BALI

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UBUD and LOMBOK Hotels

★★★★★

ALILA UBUD

SAMAYA UBUD

The Alila Ubud is a tranquil and secluded hillside retreat high on the edge of the rich green Ayung River valley in Bali’s central foothills. The resort is just minutes from Ubud. Blending contemporary design and traditional Balinese architecture, the secluded courtyards, spacious terraces and private gardens create an intimate feeling. The 56 rooms offer panoramic views of the Ayung River and surrounding volcanoes. Facilities include a spectacular pool, a spa, bicycle hire, library, bar and restaurant.

With spacious villas spectacularly located in the Ayung valley, The Samaya Ubud an ideal place to relax in a tropical paradise. Guests can encounter the artistic and cultural heart of the island, walk the infamous terraced rice fields and retreat to the peace and tranquility of this beautiful hotel. The swept-away restaurant, set upon the river bank, provides a soothing resonance whilst guests can enjoy a truly unique dining experience. Accommodation is in 1, 2 and 3 bedroom luxury, private pool villas.

Offer 4 nights for the price of 3 nights. Offer dates vary, call for details.

Offer Honeymooners receive a spa treatment and cake. Year round.

Prices from £68 per person per night, including breakfast daily.

Prices from £120 per person, including breakfast daily.

★★★★

★★★★★

KOMANEKA RESORT AT MONKEY FOREST

THE OBEROI LOMBOK

Located in the centre of Ubud, the Komaneka is surrounded by lush tropical vegetation, a veritable oasis in the midst of bustling Ubud and picturesque Monkey Forest Road, with its many wonderful shops, excellent restaurants and easy access to temples, cultural performances, museums and galleries. Facilities include a restaurant, pool bar, infinity-edged pool, spa and library. Deluxe rooms offer views of the rice fields or garden courtyard. Pool Villas include a private plunge pool.

The Oberoi Lombok is a luxury hideaway with acres of tropical gardens and golden sands along a private beach. Lush rainforests, ocean views and beautiful beaches accompany you as you arrive at this idyllic resort. The Villas and Pavilions have thatched roofs, expansive shaded terraces to relax in and all feature spacious bedrooms with four-poster beds. Some villas have their own pool. Facilities include two restaurants, bar, gym, beautiful palm-fringed outdoor pool, watersports, library and a spa.

Offer Free one hour massage for 2 when staying 4 nights. Year round.

Offer Receive 2 nights free. Offer dates vary, call for details.

Prices from £71 per person per night, including breakfast daily.

Prices from £112 per person per night, based on room only.

BALI

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THE BEST OF BALI 7 Day Private Tour

Want to discover the real Bali? This 7 day private tour will take you out into the lush, tropical countryside of terraced rice fields, to villages renowned for their arts and crafts, to Hindu temples and local markets. Witness the spectacular mountain scenery, snorkel off deserted beaches and meet the local people as they go about their daily lives. This tour includes an Englishspeaking guide, driver, breakfast daily and some lunches. Departs daily. International flights not included.

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Day 1 Arrive Bali You will be met on arrival at Bali Airport and transferred to the Sanur Beach Hotel for your first night. Day 2 Sanur to north-west Bali Escape to the heart of the Balinese countryside. Wander through terraced rice fields and relax in a tranquil village. Learn the art of Balinese cooking in a traditional kitchen, followed by lunch. Continue west, via the mountains to the Mimpi Resort Menjangan; set on the shores of a lagoon-like bay. Day 3 North-west Bali to north Bali The resort is ideally situated for diving, snorkelling and canoeing. The boundaries of the national park extend across the bay and include the small, unpopulated Menjangan Island. Its coral reefs have some of the finest diving in the archipelago. In the afternoon depart for Northern Bali and stay at the Puri Bagus Lovina. Day 4 North Bali to east Bali Up early for a cruise in search of dolphins. Return for breakfast, before a visit to Kintamani, a village located on the rim of Mt Batur Volcano. Enjoy lunch at a restaurant with views towards the crater and sparkling Lake Batur. Visit the biggest temple in Bali, drive via beautiful terraced rice-field scenery to the Puri Bagus Candidasa for a one night stay.

Day 5 East Bali to Ubud Morning at leisure, before a two hour drive to Ubud. On the way stop at Klungkung to see the Royal Court of Justice. Arrive at the spectacularly located Waka di Ume for a two night stay.

Day 6 Ubud Pick up from you hotel in Ubud for a guided cycle tour. Break away from the main roads and discover hidden Bali along the paths and trail leading down from the volcanic Mount Batur. Spend the evening with elephants with interaction, a show, a ride and a four course dinner. Day 7 Ubud to airport or beach Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your hotel before your transfer to the airport to complete your itinerary, or to a beach resort.

Price from ÂŁ699 per person, based on twinshare.

BALI

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INDOCHINA

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INDOCHINA

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INDOCHINA

CHINA

One of the most beautiful and unspoilt areas of Asia, Indochina is a region of paddy fields, ancient monuments, mountainous jungle, stunning coasts and vibrant cities. Take in the slow pace of Vietnam with its French colonial cities, the amazing temple complexes of Angkor Wat, or the laid-back atmosphere of Luang Prabang, Laos.

Getting there In 2011 Vietnam Airlines launched their first direct services from the UK (London Gatwick) to Hanoi and Saigon. Bangkok and Kuala Lumpur are popular gateway points for access to almost all parts of Indochina. Flying time to the region is around 11-12 hours.

CHINA

Hanoi BURMA Luang Prabang

Halong Bay

LAOS Vientiane

When to go For Hanoi the summer months from May to October can be quite hot with regular downpours. Winter from November to April is cooler and drier and a better time to visit. Saigon is particularly hot during March to May, with the wet season from May to November. December to March is considered the best time to visit Saigon and the beaches of Central Vietnam. For Angkor Wat and Cambodia, November to February is ideal with cooler and drier weather. May to October sees brief showers and high humidity. October to March is the best time to visit Luang Prabang in Laos, when the weather is cooler and drier than at other times.

Hue Guide to the countries THAILAND Hoi An Vietnam offers two outstanding cities in Saigon and Hanoi. The capital Hanoi in particular has retained VIETNAM Angkor Wat much of its character and history and is the gateway to one of the CAMBODIA Nha Trang region’s most amazing sights; Phnom Penh Halong Bay. The beaches of VietImportant to note Phan Thiet nam are becoming more and more British passport holders require a passport Saigon popular, with resorts such as Hoi valid for at least six months following the reAn, Phan Thiet and Nha Trang, turn date of the trip. Visas are required indibut there is so much more to these vidually for Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos. areas, with impressive historical A 30 day visa for Vietnam can be arranged temples and busy, photogenic ports. in advance and will cost approximately £40The World Heritage site of Angkor Wat, Cambodia is famous for its £45. You can contact the Vietnamese embassy in London to arrange beauty and splendour and a must-see on any Indochina itinerary. (allow two weeks for this). For Cambodia and Laos you can get a visa Luang Prabang, in the north of neighbouring Laos, is a tranquil town on arrival. This is in the region of $US35, which is payable in cash. on the banks of the Mekong River, providing visitors with a taste of See www.travcour.com for more details. For vaccination requireauthentic Asia. ments for Indochina, please contact your doctor.

INDOCHINA AVERAGE MONTHLY TEMPERATURES AND RAINFALL (Temperatures in °Centigrade, Rainfall in millimetres)

Hanoi Hoi An Saigon

Jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

May

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep

Oct

Nov

Dec

°C R 20 18 25 21 26 4

°C R 21 28 26 22 27 14

°C R 23 38 28 23 28 16

°C R 28 81 30 75 29 27

°C R 32 196 33 200 30 230

°C R 33 239 33 280 30 293

°C R 33 323 33 300 29 290

°C R 32 343 33 280 29 271

°C R 31 254 31 260 29 341

°C R 29 99 30 260 28 262

°C R 26 43 27 80 27 109

°C R 22 20 26 40 25 8

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THE BEST OF INDOCHINA 18 day Private Tour

This 18 day Indochina highlights tour encompasses the very best of Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos. Travel south through Vietnam from Hanoi to Saigon, into Cambodia to discover the capital Phnom Penh and the majestic Angkor Wat complex. The trip ends in magical Laos, with stays in laid-back Vientiane and Luang Prabang. This private tour includes an English-speaking guide and breakfast daily. Flights within

Hanoi

LAOS Vientiane

Hue

Bangkok

Day 3 Hanoi - Halong Bay Depart for Halong Bay, a four hour drive from Hanoi. Here you’ll enjoy an overnight cruise on a traditional junk through the thousands of limestone islands. Day 4 Halong Bay - Hoi An Rise early for a swim and enjoy lunch as you cruise back to the harbour. Then drive to Hanoi for a late afternoon flight to Danang on the central coast. You will be met on arrival and transferred to the charming town of Hoi An.

Day 6 Hoi An - Saigon From Hoi An take a short flight to Saigon the cosmopolitan heart of Vietnam. Soak up the exotic atmosphere of this frenetic city with a guided tour of the main highlights. In the evening enjoy a dinner cruise on the Saigon River.

Halong Bay

Danang Hoi An

THAILAND

Day 2 Hanoi Enjoy a guided tour of Hanoi. A traditional cyclo tour through the narrow, ancient streets of the exotic Old Quarter is a great way to soak up the sights.

Day 5 Hoi An Enjoy a guided walking tour of Hoi An. Take a short boat trip to visit local handicraft villages or experience a cooking class in a villa on the banks of the river.

Indochina are included.

Luang Prabang

Day 1 Hanoi You will be met at the airport and transferred to your hotel for a two night stay.

Angkor Wat

VIETNAM CAMBODIA Phnom Penh

Day 7 Saigon - Cao Dai Temple - Cu Chi Tunnels Visit the fascinating Cao Dai Temple, home to a unique religion. Then continue on to the infamous Cu Chi tunnels before returning to the city for a free afternoon.

Day 9 Can Tho - Chau Doc Visit a village which makes bamboo baskets. After lunch, walk around Chau Doc and see the bustling market. Continue to Sam Mountain for breathtaking views towards Cambodia. Day 10 Chau Doc - Phnom Penh Board a speedboat for the 5-hour journey (depart approx 08:00) to Phnom Penh. On arrival, you will be transfered you to the hotel. Day 11 Phnom Penh Guided tour of the highlights of this bustling city, including the Royal Palace, Silver Pagoda, and National Museum. Day 12 Phnom Penh - Siem Reap Late morning transfer to the airport for your flight to Siem Reap. Spend the afternoon visiting the amazing and awe inspiring temples of Angkor. Days 13 - 14 Siem Reap - Temples of Angkor Spend the next two days exploring the wonders of the Angkor temples. Day 15 Siem Reap - Vientiane Time at leisure before your flight to Vientiane. In the afternoon enjoy a half day guided tour of the city. Day 16 Vientiane - Luang Prabang Fly to Luang Prabang, set amongst forested mountains and dotted with golden temples that are home to saffron robed monks. This afternoon enjoy a walking tour of this quaint town. Day 17 Luang Prabang Full day at leisure. Day 18 Depart Luang Prabang Morning at leisure before your transfer to the airport.

Nha Trang

Saigon

INDOCHINA

Day 8 Mekong Delta Visit Cai Be floating market. Continue cruising along the Mekong canals before lunch and overnight in Can Tho.

Prices Standard (4 star) from £2650 or Superior (5 star) from £2995. Per person, based on twin share.

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THE BEST OF VIETNAM 12 Day Private Tour

Experience Vietnam’s highlights in just 12 days with flights between

Day 1 Arrive Hanoi Your guide will meet you on arrival at the airport and take you to your chosen accommodation.

each city, enabling you to see as much as you can. See Hanoi, the Paris of the Orient, stay overnight on a traditional junk in magnificent

Day 2 Hanoi Visit Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum, and several of his houses. Continue on to the Temple of Literature before lunch in a local restaurant. Visit the History or Fine Arts museum, followed by a cyclo tour of the Old Quarter.

Halong Bay. Take in the ancient capital of Hue, and relax in the charming fishing port of Hoi An. End your tour in the bright lights

Day 3 Halong Bay Cruise Drive to Halong Bay for a two day cruise. Begin with a seafood lunch, and then explore limestone caves. Relax in the afternoon on deck, go for a swim or try some kayaking.

of Saigon. This tour includes an English-speaking guide, breakfast daily and some lunches. Includes flights from Hanoi to Hue, Danang to Saigon. Departs daily.

Day 4 Hanoi to Hue Return to Hanoi for a flight to Hue. Met on arrival and transferred to your hotel. Day 5 Hue to Hoi An Morning tour of Hue including the Imperial Citadel and Mu Pagoda. Scenic drive to Hoi An via the spectacular Hai Van Pass.

Day 9 Cu Chi tunnels This labyrinth of tunnels is where the Viet Cong hid during the war. Today the remaining tunnels have become a tourist attraction, giving visitors a feel of what underground life was like during the war. Day 10 Saigon to The Mekong Delta Visit the colourful Cai Be floating market and local home factories on a relaxing cruise. After lunch enjoy a short walk along a narrow canal. Stay overnight in Can Tho. Day 11 The Mekong Delta to Saigon Return to Saigon, arriving back in the city late afternoon. Day 12 Depart Saigon Time at leisure before your airport transfer.

• Extend your tour with a 3 day 2 night add-on to spectacular Angkor Wat, from £222 per person (flights to be added). See page 113 for details. Accommodation Hanoi Movenpick (Standard), Intercontinental

Hanoi Halong Bay

LAOS

Day 6 Hoi An This morning take a walking tour of Hoi An’s ancient town, strolling along rambling streets and into old houses.

West Lake (Superior). Halong Bay Cruise Red

Day 7 Hoi An Full day at leisure in Hoi An. Perhaps pay a visit to the beach, or enjoy a cruise along the river. There is also an optional cooking class.

Liberty Central (Standard), Renaissance Riverside

Dragon (Standard), Paradise (Superior). Hue La Residence (Standard/Superior). Hoi An Life Heritage (Standard), Victoria Hotel (Superior). Saigon

Hue Danang

THAILAND

Hoi An

Hotel (Superior). Can Tho Victoria Hotel (Stan-

dard), Victoria Hotel (Superior).

Bangkok

VIETNAM CAMBODIA Nha Trang

Saigon

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Day 8 Hoi An to Saigon Transfer to Danang airport then morning flight to Saigon. Afternoon half day city tour includes the former Presidential Palace, the War Remnants Museum, Notre Dame Cathedral, the Post Office and finally Dong Khoi Street.

Price Standard (4-star) from £1499. Superior (5-star) from £1687. Based on twin share.

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NORTHERN THAILAND & LAOS 5 Day River Cruise

As an alternative to flying, why not consider a relaxing cruise between Northern Thailand's Chiang Rai and Luang Prabang in Laos? This cruise down the mighty Mekong provides a tranquil way to see the beautiful scenery. The cruise ends in the peaceful town of Luang Prabang, nestled in the jungle covered mountains of Northern Laos. Accommodation is in river side lodges. English speaking guide. All meals included.

Chiang Khong

Luang Prabang Pak Beng

Day 1 Chiang Rai to Chiang Khong Upon arrival in Chiang Rai visit a local ethnic minority village, the Golden Triangle and the fascinating Opium Museum. Overnight in Chiang Khong at the Namkhong Riverside Hotel. Day 2 Chiang Khong to Pak Beng Rise early the following morning to reach the border and cross into Laos for a Mekong cruise to Pak Beng. The Luang Say boat will leave Houei Say pier at 9am. En route, a stop is made to observe rural life along the Mekong. A buffet lunch is served on board. Arrive in Pakbeng before sunset and check in at the Luang Say Lodge. Dinner on the terrace, overlooking the Mekong River. Day 3 Pak Beng to Luang Prabang You will enjoy a full breakfast at the Lodge. (Optional: walk to Pak Beng market, where people from the surrounding village sell their goods). At 8.30am board the boat for the second leg of

the cruise. A short stop is made to visit a hill tribe village where you can watch the traditional process of Lao whiskey production before having a buffet lunch on board. Continue to Pak Ou village at the mouth of the Nam Ou River, where you visit the Tham Ting Caves of a Thousand Buddhas. Arrive at Luang Prabang before sunset. Check in to the Shinta Mani Hotel. Day 4 Luang Prabang Find out why Luang Prabang deserves its UNESCO World Heritage title with a privately guided tour around this gem of a town. Cool off in the Kuang Si waterfalls, with cascading tiers of crystal blue water splashing down several feet into a series of pools. Participate in a cooking class including a shopping visit to the vibrant Phou Si Market to select ingredients. Create your Laotian dishes under a sunroof in the garden and enjoy your creations. Day 5 Depart Luang Prabang At leisure until you are transferred to the airport for your onward flight.

Chiang Rai

LAOS THAI LAND

Note Occasional low water levels in the Mekong can affect cruise departures.

Vientiane

Price from ÂŁ837 per person, based on twin share.

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SAIGON TO ANGKOR WAT 11 Day River Cruise

Travel in style aboard the luxurious La Marguerite as you experience the magnificent Mekong Delta region and the world famous temples of Angkor Wat. La Margeurite is a 46 cabin French-colonial style vessel that offers fine dining and river cruising at its best. All meals included. Departure dates on request.

Day 1 Saigon to Cai Be Board your luxurious vessel, La Marguerite, and be welcomed by the crew. Begin with a leisurely cruise towards Cai Be. This evening enjoy a gourmet dinner on board with a live music performance. Day 2 Cai Be to Vinh Long Explore Cai Be's bustling floating market. Next, make a trip ashore to visit the French Gothic Cathedral and the colourful port area. Enjoy lunch as you cruise towards Vinh Long, the second largest city in the Mekong Delta. On arrival visit the bustling afternoon market and enjoy a boat ride. Return to your boat for dinner and a performance of Mekong Folk dancing. Day 3 Vinh Long to Tan Chau Sadec was the setting for Marguerite Duras's novel, 'The Lover'. During your guided tour of the settlement you can visit 'The Lovers' Museum'. Pass by the school where Margueriteâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s mother taught and view the home of Marguerite from across the river. In the afternoon arrive in Tan Chau, a remote small town on the main branch of the Mekong River.

Angkor Wat

Siem Reap Tonle Sap Lake

CAM BODI A Komong Chhnang

Phnom Penh

VIETNAM Tan Chau

Saigon

Vinh Long

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Day 4 Tan Chau - Cambodia Tan Chau is famous for its silk and during your visit you may like to stop at a traditional silk making factory. The town is also renowned for rattan mats. Return to the boat and enjoy lunch as you cruise towards the border. In the afternoon, enjoy a cooking demonstration given by the Executive Chef at the Saigon Lounge. Later the vessel will enter the Kingdom of Cambodia and head towards its capital, Phnom Penh. Day 5 Phnom Penh Embark on a comprehensive sightseeing tour of Phnom Penh. End the day with dinner on your vessel accompanied by a special Khmer musical performance.

Day 6 Chong Koh to Kompong Tralach After breakfast, stroll through the silk weaving village of Chong Koh. Return to the boat and continue on to Prek K'dam, for an afternoon tour of Oudong. Depart Oudong for the journey to Kompong Tralach, where you will visit Wat Kompong Tralach Pleu. Continue your tour with a fun ox-cart ride to the Tonle Sap River. Day 7 Komong Chhnang to Tonle Sap Today you will enjoy a quintessential river excursion through the region's floating villages, where you will get a glimpse of the local lifestyles on the Tonle Sap River. Later emerge onto Cambodia's largest lake. Enjoy a stop in one of the region's many floating villages; some of which have schools, health clinics and even floating pig farms. Return to the vessel and prepare for farewell cocktails and your last dinner. Day 8 Siem Reap to Angkor Wat This morning arrive in Siem Reap, gateway to the Temples of Angkor. After a rest, your local guide will take you to the Roluos Temple Complex, said to be the seat of Hariharalaya, the first capital of the Khmer Empire north of the Tonle Sap. Day 9-10 Siem Reap - Temples of Angkor Spend the next two days exploring the stunning Temples of Angkor; with plenty of time to relax during the hottest parts of the day. Day 11 Depart Siem Reap Free time at leisure until you are transferred to the airport for your departure flight.

Price from ÂŁ2149 per person, based on twin share.

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HANOI Travel Hanoi is served by scheduled services from most Asian cities, with onwards connections from London. There are no direct flights from the UK. The airport is 22 miles north of the city, which is a 50minute drive. We can arrange for you to be met on arrival and transferred privately to your hotel. From £12 per person. Attractions Start in the grand Ba Dinh Square. Visit Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum, where you will see the former leader laid out before you. Nearby are some of his houses, set in landscaped grounds. Visit The Temple of Literature, founded in the 11th century. Spend time in the Old

Quarter, either on foot or on a cyclo (a cycle rickshaw). Further afield Halong Bay is one of Vietnam’s major attractions and for good reason. It is possible to visit on a day trip, but this involves an eight hour round trip transfer. Alternatively we offer a two-day cruise which allows you more time to enjoy the breathtaking scenery. When to go November to February is Hanoi’s driest and therefore best time to visit. March to October is hotter, with more rainfall and high humidity. Hanoi is generally warm to hot, though in winter it can reach a low of just 13°C.

Hanoi, known as the ‘Paris of the Orient’ offers a delightful taste of Asia’s heritage. Retaining much of its French colonial 2

architecture, this is a city of wide, treelined boulevards and lakes. Spend time in the vibrant Old Quarter; a maze of bustling, narrow streets offering all kinds of goods, with an excellent selection of cafes, bars and restaurants. A visit to the

Red River

West Lake

Museum of Ethnology

Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum

Old Quarter

HANOI

1 3 Thong Nhat Park

nearby and iconic Halong Bay is a must.

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HANOI Hotels

★★★★★

SOFITEL LEGEND METROPOLE HOTEL

INTERCONTINENTAL WESTLAKE HANOI

Located at the heart of Hanoi close to the old quarter and the Opera House, the charming Sofitel Legend Metropole Hotel blends warm Vietnamese hospitality with European luxury. The 364 rooms and suites are located in two wings; the historical Metropole Wing features rooms with the original grandeur, while the newer Opera Wing offers neo-classic elegance. Facilities include a stylish pool with loungers set in well manicured gardens, a spa, fitness centre, a café, bar and two restaurants.

The new Intercontinental Westlake Hanoi overlooks the 800 year old Golden Lotus Pagoda on Hanoi’s largest lake. Offering a sublime waterfront location, this outstanding hotel is just a 10-minute taxi ride from the historic old quarter of the city. All of the guest rooms feature private balconies overlooking either the West Lake or the Hanoi skyline. Facilities include an outdoor pool, fitness centre, choice of restaurants and a sunset bar, set on its own island with a selection of cocktails and great views.

Offer Receive a 5% discount for stays of 5 nights or more. Year round.

Offer Receive a 5% discount for stays of 5 nights or more. Year round

Prices from £92 per person per night, including breakfast daily.

Prices from £64 per person per night, including breakfast daily.

★★★★

MOVENPICK HOTEL HANOI

MAY DE VILLE OLD QUARTER HOTEL

The Movenpick Hotel is located just five minutes from the centre of Hanoi and features colonial-style French architecture together with a very high level of service. The 154 rooms are well-appointed with modern amenities and offer city views. Hotel facilities include a gymnasium and a wellness studio offering massage and sauna. The all-day dining restaurant offers buffet dining as well as à la carte. The lounge bar is available for snacks during the day and cocktails in the evening.

This is a value-for-money hotel superbly located in the heart of Hanoi's Old Quarter, just a block away from the Hoan Kiem Lake. The centre of Hanoi is just a few minutes’ walk away. The 50-room May De Ville offers rooms with city views and modern amenities. Guests enjoy being so close to the sights and sounds of this vibrant part of the city with a wide range of shops and restaurants on the doorstep. Hotel facilities include a first floor restaurant and tenth floor bar which offers superb city views.

Offer Receive a 5% discount for stays of 5 nights or more. Year round.

Prices from £68 per person per night, including breakfast daily.

Prices from £20 per person per night, including breakfast daily.

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BEYOND HANOI Tours

3 DAY MAI CHAU PRIVATE TOUR

4 DAY SAPA BY TRAIN PRIVATE TOUR

Discover a rare haven, situated near the lush tribal villages of the ethnic minority groups in the Valley of Mai Chau. Mai Chau Lodge. Here there is something for everyone, from swimming to kayaking, to cycling and rock climbing, as well as for those interested in understanding local culture. Departs daily. All meals included.

Sapa is a former French hill station set in a high valley near the VietnamChina border and is surrounded by picturesque mountains. Today, Sapa attracts visitors from around the world due to its stunning scenery, crisp climate, colourful markets and ethnic hill tribes living in nearby villages. Departs daily. Breakfast daily and one lunch included.

Day 1 Hanoi to Mai Chau Lodge Mai Chau is only four hours from Hanoi but feels a world away. You are transferred into the lush mountains, home to remote hill tribes. Arrive at noon, check-in and have lunch. Optional afternoon cycle tour through the valley. Enjoy dinner and a traditional dance performance.

Day 1 Hanoi to Lao Cai Board an overnight train from Hanoi to the border town of Lao Cai. Enjoy soft sleeper berths on the express train (4 berth shared cabins). Train departs at 9pm.

Day 2 Mai Chau Lodge In the morning visit a former soldiers cave - used to store equipment during the Vietnam War. Then, walk to a local ethnic H'Mong village to learn about village life. Spend the afternoon at Mai Chau Lodge, relaxing by the pool, enjoying the spa and steam room or cycling to a local village. Day 3 Mai Chau Lodge to Hanoi After breakfast, you can take a walk to two nearby Thai villages to see village life and meet the locals. Lunch at the lodge before returning to Hanoi around 5pm.

Day 2 Lao to Sapa Arrive around 6am at Lao Cai, then transfer to Sapa for breakfast. Take a guided trek to local hill tribe villages. As you walk to the villages nestled in the valley below Sapa, you will meet some of the local ethnic minority people on their way to and from Sapa. Stay at the Victoria Hotel Sapa. Built as a traditional mountain retreat, the Victoria Sapa Resort & Spa overhangs the village, blending perfectly with the natural surroundings. Day 3 Sapa to Lao Cai Morning walk for a panoramic view of Sapa. After lunch we drive out of town and commence an hour-long walk to Ta Phin, home to the distinctive Dao community. From here we drive to Lao Cai station for the overnight train journey to Hanoi. The train departs at 8pm. Day 4 Arrive Hanoi Arrive into Hanoi around 5am and transfer to your hotel to complete the tour.

Price from ÂŁ320 per person, based on twin share. Price from ÂŁ330 per person, based on twin share.

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HALONG BAY OVERNIGHT CRUISES

2 DAY RED DRAGON JUNK CRUISE

2 DAY PARADISE LUXURY JUNK CRUISE

The Red Dragon Junk has an ancient Chinese sail boat style with three sails. This boat includes five deluxe cabins, all with en suite facilities. There is a luxury dining room and bar and plenty of space on deck for sunbathing and relaxing. Departs Hanoi daily. Includes all meals.

Launched in 2009, Paradise is one of the newest luxury junks cruising in Halong Bay. The 17 cabins are spacious and lavishly appointed. Enjoy meals in the stylish restaurant, and the top deck features the Moonlight Bar for unforgettable views. Includes a sauna, jacuzzi, massages and beauty treatments. Departs Hanoi daily. All meals included.

Day 1 Hanoi to Halong Bay In the morning, transfer from your hotel in Hanoi to Halong Bay, about a 4 hour drive with a refreshment break en route. Meet the crew upon boarding the traditional wooden junk, then relax and enjoy lunch while the boat heads towards the secluded Bai Tu Long Bay. Visit ancient limestone caves and go sea kayaking and swimming if the weather permits. Return to the junk refreshed and invigorated and relax on deck with a drink to watch the sunset. Enjoy a freshly prepared seafood dinner under the stars.

Day 1 Hanoi to Halong Bay Early departure from your Hanoi hotel with a 4 hour drive to Halong, with a refreshment break en route. Board ‘Paradise’ junk on Tuan Chau Island and meet the crew. Enjoy a welcome cocktail and Asian buffet lunch while admiring the beautiful bay scenery. Spend the day cruising around the UNESCO heritage-listed bay. Go kayaking or swimming (weather permitting) or relax on the sundeck and enjoy the sunset over the islands as the boat arrives at its anchorage for the evening. There is a cooking demonstration. Dinner is a freshly prepared seafood feast and the evening entertainment includes movies, board games or spa treatments.

Day 2 Halong Bay to Hanoi Enjoy the fresh air and gentle breeze of the bay in morning. Cruise through Bai Tu Long, and visit the floating fishing village of Vong Vieng and learn about daily life here. Cruise back to the dock arriving in Halong around noon then transfer back to Hanoi, arriving at your hotel at approximately 4pm. Price from £248 per person based on twin share.

Day 2 Halong Bay to Hanoi Awake to morning tai chi and a buffet breakfast and cruise to Ti Top - one of the most beautiful beaches of the bay. Climb 400 steps up to the top of the island for a breathtaking panoramic view of the bay before cruising back and returning to Hanoi around 2.30pm. Price from £260 per person, based on twin share.

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HOI AN and HUE Hoi An is an exceptionally wellpreserved example of a SouthEast Asian trading port dating from the 15th to the 19th century. Its buildings and its street plan reflect the influences that have combined to produce this unique heritage site. Hoi An offers a superb sandy beach, riverside cafes and restaurants and excellent shopping opportunities. The beautiful city of Hue is rich in history, culture and ancient temples. Danang is the nearest airport to Hoi An, a 30-kilometre, 45minute drive and is served by scheduled flights from Hanoi, Saigon and Siem Reap, Cambodia. Phu Bai Airport is located just south of Hue. The ancient capital is served by scheduled flights from Hanoi and Saigon. We highly recommend the drive between the two cities, a 5-hour journey via the spectacular Hai Van Pass.

Attractions Visit My Son, a World Heritage site, 40 km southwest of Hoi An. Located in a lush valley. My Son was a capital and religious centre of the Cham people, now remaining with red brick towers and sanctuaries. My Son, is considered to be in the same league as some of Southeast Asia's greatest archaeological sites. In Hue pay a visit to the historic Citadel and enjoy a trip on the Purfume River. Half and full day tours can be prebooked. Prices on request. When to go The temperature is warm throughout the year (average 29째C), yet hotter during June and July and cooler around December. Hoi An is affected by monsoon winds with rain from September until January, and generally dry for the rest of the year. Overall, the best time to visit Hoi An and Hue is between May and June.

Hoi An is an exceptionally well-preserved example of a South-East Asian trading port dating from the 15th - 19th century. Its buildings and its street plan reflect the influences that have combined to produce this unique heritage site. The beautiful city of Hue is rich in history, culture and ancient temples. Spend the day exploring the Citadel, before a sunset cruise on the Perfume River.

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HOI AN and HUE Hotels

★★★★★

THE NAM HAI

VICTORIA HOI AN BEACH RESORT & SPA

The Nam Hai is a stylish and luxurious resort, superbly situated on 85 acres of landscaped gardens and with direct access to a white sandy beach. The ancient and picturesque town of Hoi An is a 15-minute drive away. This all-villa property features a modern, Asian design and 60 onebedroom pool villas ranging from one to five bedrooms, each with its own infinity pool. Facilities include a tropical spa beside a lagoon, three beachfront pools, an 18-hole golf course nearby, and two restaurants.

The Victoria Hoi An Beach Resort enjoys a wonderful private beach front position, three miles from Hoi An. The resort replicates a traditional fishing village with small streets, water ponds and village houses with claytiled roofs, providing a warm and restful environment. All 109 rooms face the river or sea and are designed to combine local style with the comfort of an International hotel. Facilities include a pool, kids’ pool, spa, library, fitness centre, bars and restaurant. Shuttle bus to Hoi An.

Offer Receive 4 nights for the price of 3. 13 Apr - 19 Dec 12.

Offer Receive 4 nights for the price of 3. 5 Apr - 31 Oct 12.

Prices from £208 per person per night, including breakfast daily.

Prices from £60 per person per night, including breakfast daily.

★★★★

★★★★★

LIFE HERITAGE RESORT HOI AN

LA RESIDENCE HOTEL & SPA HUE

The Life Heritage Resort occupies a superb location by the scenic river, a short stroll from the colourful and bustling ancient town of Hoi An. The beach is 3 miles away. This colonial style resort offers a relaxing and tranquil setting amidst the sights and sounds of Hoi An. Superior rooms have a private porch overlooking the beautiful gardens. Junior suites are larger, some with river views. Facilities include a pool, massage, restaurant, café and bar. Sunset river cruises depart from the hotel. Bicycle hire.

Hue’s first deluxe boutique hotel, La Residence Hotel and Spa is nestled on the banks of the Perfume river, within easy walking distance of Hue. This graceful Art Deco building was once the residence of the French governor. The 122 guest rooms have been designed with colonial charm and Asian opulence and feature private terraces with views towards the river. Facilities include an elegantly-designed pool by the river’s edge, a spa, tennis courts, a fitness centre, bicycle rental, a bar and a restaurant.

Offer Receive a 5% discount for stays of 5 nights or more. Year round.

Offer Receive a 5% discount for stays of 3 nights or more. Year round.

Prices from £49 per person per night, including breakfast daily.

Prices from £56 per person per night, including breakfast daily.

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SAIGON Travel Saigon is served by scheduled services from most Asian cities, with onwards connections from London. There are no direct flights from the UK. The airport is 4 miles north of the city, a 20-minute drive. We can arrange for you to be met on arrival and transferred privately to your hotel. From £8 per person. ride through the streets at night is an experience, and a drink from a rooftop bar overlooking the Saigon River is recommended. Further afield consider a cruise in the Mekong and a visit to the Cu Chi Tunnels, used during the war by the Vietcong.

Attractions Visit the Reunification Palace; a symbol of the war and scene of the fall of Saigon in 1975. The French-style Central Post Office is interesting as it has changed very little over the decades. See the Notre Dame Cathedral, very much a landmark in Saigon. A cyclo

When to go The driest period of the year for Saigon tends to be December through to March. The rainy season is usually May to October and tropical storms do occur. Saigon is hot and humid all year round with an average temperature of between 31°C and 35°C.

Vietnam’s largest city, Saigon (also called Ho Chi Minh City), is fast catching up with Airport

Asia’s other cities in terms of development,

Saigon River

yet it still retails a French colonial flavour

SAIGON

and a timeless quality. Alongside its colonial buildings and bustling street markets you’ll find sleek new bars, pavement cafés

Railway Station

and some of the most delicious food in

Asia with a good choice of restaurants.

INDOCHINA

City Hall

Reunification Palace

Fine Arts Museum

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Zoo Notre Dame Cathedral

Ho Chi Minh Museum

Saigon River

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SAIGON Hotels

★★★★★

PARK HYATT SAIGON

CARAVELLE HOTEL

The luxurious Park Hyatt Saigon is one of the finest hotels in the city, located right in the heart of this bustling metropolis on Larn Son Square. Overlooking the elegant Opera House this nine-storey hotel is within walking distance to the cultural and historical sites of Saigon. The spacious, colonial style rooms offer either a city or stunning pool view. Facilities include a 20-metre outdoor pool set in pretty gardens, a spa, fitness centre, bar and a restaurant. Live Jazz in the lounge most evenings.

The Caravelle has been at the centre of Saigon society since the hotel was opened in 1959. In 1998, an elegant 24-storey tower was built as a complement to the original 10-storey building. With commanding views of the city and an enviable location opposite the Opera House, this landmark hotel is at the heart of the city. 335 rooms with city or river views. Facilities include an outdoor pool, fitness centre, Jacuzzi, spa and wide range of bars and restaurants.

Offer Receive a 5% discount for stays of 5 nights or more. Year round.

Prices from £173 per person per night, including breakfast daily.

Prices from £74 per person per night, including breakfast daily.

★★★★

RENAISSANCE RIVERSIDE HOTEL SAIGON

LIBERTY CENTRAL HOTEL

The Renaissance Riverside Hotel offers a superb central location with panoramic views of the Saigon River together with easy access to museums, galleries and shops, and famous landmarks such as the Opera House, Reunification Palace and the Notre Dame Cathedral. The 319 modern guest rooms offer a choice of city or river views. Enjoy a swim in the impressive rooftop swimming pool. Other hotel facilities include a poolside bar, gym, spa, coffee shop, a riverside cafe and a restaurant.

A new hotel located right in the heart of Saigon's vibrant city, close to Ben Thanh market and a short stroll from shopping arcades, entertainment and famous landmarks such as the City Opera House, Central Post Office, Cathedral, Unification Palace and the Walk (Dong Khoi street). This modern hotel has 139 rooms which offer superb views of Saigon. Hotel facilities include a restaurant, coffee lounge, fitness centre, outdoor swimming pool and pool bar and massage parlour.

Offer Receive a 5% discount for stays of 5 nights or more. Year round.

Prices from £68 per person per night, including breakfast daily.

Prices from £38 per person per night, including breakfast daily.

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BEYOND SAIGON Tours

2-DAY MEKONG DELTA PRIVATE TOUR

7 DAY SAIGON TO ANGKOR WAT PRIVATE TOUR

The Mekong Delta is the twelfth longest river in the world. This beautiful region, with its network of tributaries and canals is a busy thoroughfare of rowing boats to cargo boat, all plying their trade. Experience colourful floating markets, Khmer pagodas and French colonial architecture. Tour includes an English speaking gude and departs daily.

This is a great way to continue your Indochina experience. After a stay in Saigon, head for the Mekong Delta where you’ll witness floating markets and stay in colonial-style river front hotels. Cross into Cambodia by speedboat and stay in the capital, Phnom Penh before a memorable finish at the spectacular Angkor Wat. This is a private tour with an English speaking guide. Departs Saigon daily, breakfast included.

Day 1 Saigon to Can Tho The tour starts from Saigon with a pick up from your hotel and a drive to Cai Be where you board the Cai Be Princess at around 10am. This town is famous for its colourful floating markets. After the leisurely cruise there follows a short walk to a local village that specialises in rice paste making, rice pop corn, coco candies, and longans drying processing. The trip continues along the Mekong canals discover beautiful landscapes along the river and observe the typical Mekong delta rural life. Lunch awaits you at the French colonial style Le Longanier restaurant. Afterwards, drive to the city of Can Tho, the economic hub of the Mekong Delta, and spend the night at the Victoria Can Tho Resort. Set on the banks of the river amidst exotic gardens, this is a quiet luxurious retreat offering with a pool, spa restaurant and bar.

Day 1 Saigon to Can Tho Drive through the Mekong Delta to the town of Cai Be, famous for its floating markets. After touring the markets, board a private boat and cruise along a maze of waterways to Vinh Long. Overnight at The Victoria Can Tho Resort.

Day 2 Can Tho to Saigon In the morning, take a boat to visit the Cai Rang floating market and fruit gardens in Can Tho. This vibrant market is a sight to behold with numerous boats of all sizes, filled with all kinds of goods for sale. The tour then returns to Saigon and a drop off at your hotel or airport.

Day 2 Can Tho to Chau Doc In the morning, take a boat to visit Cai Rang floating market and transfer to Chau Doc, visiting Xu Lady and Thoai Ngoc Hau Temple en route. Overnight at The Victoria Chau Doc Resort. Day 3 Chau Doc to Phnom Penh Depart for the four and half hour journey up the river to Phnom Penh by speedboat (pictured). Stay 2 nights at The Cambodiana Hotel, Phnom Penh. Day 4 Phnom Penh Half day tour of the city. Rest of the day at leisure. Day 5 Phnom Penh to Siem Reap Transfer to the airport for the short flight to Siem Reap. Rest of the day at leisure. Stay 2 nights at The Victoria Angkor Resort & Spa, Siem Reap. Day 6 Angkor Wat A classic full day private tour of world famous Angkor Wat, a World Heritage site. Includes lunch. Day 7 Depart Siem Reap Time at leisure before your transfer to the airport.

Prices from £238 per person, based on twin share

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Price from £799 per person, based on twin-share.

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ISLAND RESORTS OF VIETNAM

★★★★★

SIX SENSES CON DAO

Set off the south-east coast of Vietnam, the Con Dao archipelago was settled by the British East India Company in 1702. Most of the archipelago is a national marine park. CAMBODI A Phnom Penh

Saigon

Six Senses Con Dao is set in an area of outstanding natural beauty. The 50 villas sit along a mile of golden sand, looking out at the blue sea and curve of the bay and sheltered by darkly green forested mountains. The whole area has been protected as a nature and marine reserve for decades and its unspoilt beauty is home to many endangered and indigenous species. All villas include a private infinity pool. Styles range from single-level to duplex and offer one, three and four bedrooms.

The largest island,

Offer Stay 3 nights for the price of 2 nights. 1 Apr – 30 Oct 12.

Con Son, which

Prices from £204 per person per night, including breakfast daily.

hosts Six Senses

Phu Quoc

Con Dao, is a 45 GUL F OF T HAI L AND

Con Dao

minute flight from Saigon, as is the

beautiful island of Phu Quoc, located just off the Vietnamese and Cambodian coastlines. When resorts on the mainland are experiencing the rainy season, the weather in Phu Quoc is excellent. Plans are afoot

★★★★

LA VERANDA RESORT PHU QUOC

for major development of the island, but at present, it is still largely unspoiled. November to June is generally the

Located on Phu Quoc Island, La Veranda Resort, member of the MGallery collection, boasts a style reminiscent of a French seaside mansion. Set in tropical gardens on a beautiful stretch of beach, the resort boasts an evocative design comprising a rich blend of dark woods, fine linens and mosaic tiles, complemented by large terraces with sweeping views. In addition to 43 rooms with private balconies, La Veranda Resort features two restaurants, a lounge bar, swimming pool, water sports and a day spa.

best time to visit these islands.

Offer Stay 10 nights for the price of 9 nights. 9 Jan – 30 Mar 12. Prices from £71 per person per night, including breakfast daily.

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ANGKOR WAT

Travel Siem Reap’s Angkor International Airport is the gateway for Angkor Wat. The airport is served with flights from Bangkok, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur as well as Hanoi and Saigon, amongst others. The airport is a 20-minute drive from Siem Reap.

Angkor Wat, constructed over a period of 30 years, is world famous for its beauty and splendour. In 1992, the UNESCO declared the monument and the whole city of Angkor a World Heritage site. A few miles from Angkor Wat is the city of Siem Reap, generally a 20 minute drive. Here there’s an excellent choice of accommodation and an abundance of cafés, restaurants, galleries and shops.

Ta Prohm

Angkor Krau

Pradak

Angkor Thom

West Baray

Srah Srang

t or rp Ai

Angkor Wat

Trang

Siem Reap

SIEM REAP & ANGKOR WAT REGION

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INDOCHINA

Natio nal

High

way 6

Attractions There is so much to see at Angkor Wat. It’s entirely possible to spend three days visiting all of the major sites. Most visitors will allow either a full day or two. An Englishspeaking guide is recommended. One of the most popular attractions of Angkor is Ta Prohm. This is a part of the site that has not had the jungle cleared, with the result that it looks very much as most of the Angkor monuments would have appeared when European explorers first stumbled across them; shrouded in jungle, untouched by archaeologists. When to go The driest and coolest period is generally from November to March. May through to October sees high humidity and frequent, but often brief showers. However the busiest period for visitors is during the dry and cool period so you can expect crowds at the temples.

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ANGKOR WAT Hotels

★★★★★

HOTEL DE LA PAIX

LA RESIDENCE D'ANGKOR

Hotel De La Paix is one of Siem Reap’s most stylish contemporary hotels, fusing ancient Khmer influences with art deco design, providing guests with outstanding levels of luxury. Enjoying a prime location in Siem Reap this hotel is just footsteps from the colourful markets and vibrant nightlife, but just a short drive to the Angkor Wat site. Elegantly designed rooms include views of either exciting urban life or serene gardens. Facilities include a pool, fitness centre, a spa, wine cellar, bar and restaurant.

An intimate Orient-Express hotel on the banks of Siem Reap's tree-lined river, La Résidence d'Angkor is built in natural woods in traditional Khmer style. Located close to the ruins at Angkor and close to the town's busy craft markets, restaurants and galleries. This delightful hotel's quiet gardens, swimming pool and spa are the perfect place to relax at the end of a thrilling day. Facilities include a stylish restaurant, café, lounge and pool bars.

Offer Receive a 5% discount for stays of 4 nights or more. Year round.

Prices from £86 per person per night, including breakfast daily.

Prices from £84 per person per night, including breakfast daily.

Day 2 Angkor Wat tour A full day to experience this World Heritage site. Includes the South Gate of Angkor Thom City, The Bayon, Baphuon Temple, The Royal Enclosure, Phimeanakas and the Terrace of Elephants and Terrace of Leper Kings. Visit the

jungle-clad Ta Prohm before a

★★★★

VICTORIA ANGKOR RESORT & SPA Within the four star Victoria Angkor Resort & Spa enjoy the comfort, elegance and superb refinement of the French Art de Vivre in the heart of Siem Reap. The Victoria Angkor Resort & Spa is located only 5 miles from the international airport, and 4 miles from the Angkor World Heritage site. Rooms are stylish with pool views. Facilities include a swimming pool, kids’ pool and club, spa, sauna, massage, jacuzzi, library and choice of bars and restaurants.

Offer Receive 3 nights for the price of 2. 1 Apr - 29 Sep 12.

tour of Angkor Wat Temple, easily

3-DAY ANGKOR WAT TOUR

the most famous and best preserved of all the structures within the complex. Your guide will endeavour to help you avoid the

Includes • 2 nights 4 or 5-star hotel • Return private airport transfers • Angkor Wat private tour

crowded parts of the site. Day 3 Depart Siem Reap Private transfer to Siem Reap Airport.

Day 1 Arrive Siem Reap Met on arrival at Siem Reap Airport and transferred to your

Prices from £222 at Victoria

accommodation.

Angkor and from £288 at Hotel

Rest of the day at leisure.

De La Paix.

Prices from £48 per person per night, including breakfast daily.

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LUANG PRABANG Travel Luang Prabang Airport is located just north of the town and has regular scheduled flights from the capital, Vientiene and also from Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Hanoi and Siem Reap. We can arrange for you to be met on arrival and transferred privately to your chosen accommodation. From £10 per person. Attractions Visit Wat Visoun, the site of the impressive Thad Makmo stupa. Climb 350 steps to the top of Phou Sii Hill for commanding views of the surrounding countryside. Visit Wat Mai, built in 1796 and epitomising the graceful Luang Prabang architectural style. The National Museum, once a king’s palace, displays a collection of personal artefacts of the royal family. Above all Luang Prabang is a wonderful town for just walking and taking in the sights. A trip on the Mekong River is also recommended.

Surrounded by thickly forested mountains and situated at the confluence of the Khan and Mekong Rivers, Luang Prabang, Laos

When to go The dry season for Luang Prabang is from November through to April. The rainy season is generally from May to October. The annual average temperature is 24°C-25°C, with high humidity. The hottest period is around March to May when temperatures can soar to 37°C, the coldest and wettest month is usually August when temperatures can drop to 15°C.

VIETNAM Luang Prabang LAOS

has a tranquil, old world charm rarely found in Asia today. The legacy of the European presence here well preserved French architecture and careful street

Museum

r ive gR on k Me

3 Market

planning has blended delightfully with more

1 Tourism Office

than 30 gilded Buddhist temples to create a town rich in atmosphere and history.

t por Air

Tribal Market

Kh an Riv er

LUANG PRABANG 2

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LUANG PRABANG Hotels

★★★★★

★★★★

LA RESIDENCE PHOU VAO HOTEL

SHINTA MANI

La Residence Phou Vao Hotel is a luxury spa hotel with breathtaking views of the mountains and surrounding World Heritage town of Luang Prabang. The town itself is just over a mile from the hotel, easily reached by car or bicycle. Rooms are comfortable and offer garden and mountain views. Relax in the beautiful gardens that frame the infinity-edged pool that affords views over the palm-filled valley. Activities and facilities include bicycle hire, picnics, cooking classes, pool, spa, bar and restaurant.

Situated on a hill overlooking the UNESCO Heritage Village of Luang Prabang, the hotel offers compelling views of the surrounding countryside. This boutique property includes a Development Institute, which offers education and skills training for local youth. Facilities include a hilltop swimming pool, a poolside bar with individual day beds, guests can enjoy food and beverage service with 360° views of the surrounding countryside. Restaurant, spa and gym. Free shuttle bus to town centre.

Offer Receive a 5% discount for stays of 4 nights or more. Year round.

Prices from £143 per person per night, including breakfast daily.

Prices from £50 per person per night, including breakfast daily.

Day 2 Tour of Luang Prabang Visit Wat Visoun, the site of the impressive Thad Makmo Stupa. Continue on to Wat Mai with its impressive five-tiered roof before time spent in the National Museum, once a king’s palace, which

★★★★★

MAISON SOUVANNAPHOUM HOTEL In the heart of Luang Prabang, the Maison Souvannaphoum is a stylish property, once the residence of Prince Souvannaphouma. Many of the city's attractions including the Royal Palace are within walking distance. This recently resorted hotel has just 24 rooms over two levels offering elegance and comfort. Facilities include the Angsana Spa which offers massages and treatments in serene outdoor pavilions, a swimming pool and a beautiful restaurant with French, Laotian and Indochine dishes.

includes a lovely collection of per-

3-DAY LUANG PRABANG TOUR

sonal artefacts of the royal family. Afterwards enjoy lunch (included) in a local restaurant. Rest of the day is free to relax and enjoy the

Includes • 2 nights Shinta Mani Hotel • Breakfast daily • Return private airport transfers • Luang Prabang private tour

sights and sounds of Luang Prabang. This town is ideal for strolling around, or perhaps take a boat trip on the Mekong River. Day 3 Depart Luang Prabang At leisure before your transfer to

Day 1 Arrive Luang Prabang

the airport.

Met on arrival at Luang Prabang

Offer Receive a 5% discount for stays of 4 nights or more. Year round.

airport and transferred privately to

Price from £220 per person,

the Shinta Mani Hotel.

based on twin-share.

Prices from £76 per person per night, including breakfast daily.

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CHINA

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CHINA China is a country of huge contrast with big exciting cities such as Beijing and Shanghai, rural towns and villages where old China seems to have carried on regardless. From green paddy fields and bamboo forests to gorges and limestone peaks China is a fascinating destination for all travellers.

How to get there There are direct flights to Beijing and Shanghai from the UK. All of China’s main cities are served by Cathay Pacific Airways via Hong Kong with connecting flights on Dragonair. The flying time is 11 hours.

around China independently, however we would recommend that you consider pre-booking an escorted tour; the English-speaking guide will be able to give you so much more background to what you are seeing and will cover all the arrangements such as transport and accommodation.

BEIJING ★

Y ELLO W SEA Xian

Guide to the country Shanghai Beijing is a great starting point for your When to go China experience. A dynamic and growChina is a large country with a wide EAST CHINA ing city, it offers a wealth of historical atrange of climatic conditions. Spring CHINA tractions such as the impressive Great (April to May) or autumn (September to SEA Wall of China, the labyrinthine ForbidOctober) are good months for travelling den City and the magnificent Temple of in comfort. Summer is from June to AuKunming Heaven. gust and is hot throughout the country Guilin A stroll along Shanghai’s famous riverand particularly humid in the south. Hong Kong front Bund shows the rapid pace at This is also the period that experiences which this city is moving. Contrast the the most rain. Winter (November to old-style Shanghai of Noel Coward with March) sees very cold conditions (below SOUTH CHINA the architecture of modern China and freezing) in Beijing and the north, but SEA pay a visit to the Water Village at Zhjiacomparatively mild in the south. jiao near Shanghai. Away from the cities Important to note visit the Yangtze and Li Rivers for incredBritish passport holders must have a passport valid for six months ible gorge scenery and enjoy the views on a Three Gorges cruise, from the last date of the trip. A visa is required and must be obsee the beautiful limestone peaks of Guilin and Yangshuo that seem tained well in advance from the Chinese embassy. China is eight to rise up out of the mist and take time to experience the Chinese hours ahead of GMT. The currency is Renminbi. For vaccination countryside with a walk or cycle ride. See the famous Terracotta Warrequirements or recommendations please contact your local doctor. riors at Xian, one of the country’s great sights. It is possible to travel

CHINA AVERAGE MONTHLY TEMPERATURES AND RAINFALL (Temperatures in °Centigrade, Rainfall in millimetres)

Beijing Shanghai Hong Kong

Jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

May

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep

Oct

Nov

Dec

°C R -5 3 4 44 17 27

°C R -2 7 5 62 17 44

°C R 5 9 8 78 19 75

°C R 13 19 14 106 23 140

°C R 20 33 19 123 27 298

°C R 24 78 23 159 28 399

°C R 26 192 28 134 29 371

°C R 24 212 28 126 29 377

°C R 20 57 24 150 28 297

°C R 13 24 18 50 26 119

°C R 4 6 12 49 22 38

°C R -3 3 6 41 18 25

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TREASURES OF CHINA 8 Day Small Group Tour

Start your journey in Beijing, home to ancient traditions and modern attractions.. After experiencing the Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square and beyond, take an overnight train to Xian and discover the Terracotta Warriors. Encounter China's natural beauty at Guilin and Yangshuo. Accommodation is mainly 3 to 4 star with breakfast included. The tour has a Western leader with a English-speaking local guide in each location. Based on a maximum of 16. Guaranteed departures. Interna-

Day 1 Arrive Beijing Upon arrival in Beijing you will be met and transferred to your hotel. Tonight meet your tour leader (or local guide) for welcome drinks and a tour briefing. Accommodation: Yong An Hotel Day 2 Beijing Explore Beijing's fascinating hutongs by rickshaw, visit the Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square and the Drum Tower. Witness a superb acrobatics performance. Day 3 Beijing See the Great Wall at Mutianyu. Then we take the overnight train to Xian. First class, air-conditioned carriage with soft sleeper four-berth shared cabin. Lower or upper bunk, clean linen provided. Accommodation:

Day 5 Xian to Guilin Visit the spectacular Terracotta Warriors before catching your flight to Guilin. Accommodation: Universal Hotel Day 6 Guilin to Yangshuo Take a river cruise through the beautiful limestone mountains set on the banks of the Li River, an inspiration to poets and painters for centuries. Accommodation:Yangshuo Regency Hotel Day 7 Yangshuo Start the day with a relaxing tai chi lesson. Later, cycle through Yangshuo's verdant rice paddies and absorb this quaint region's atmosphere and culture. Transfer back to Guilin for your final evening. Accommodation: Universal Hotel

Overnight train to Xian Day 4 Xian The Terracotta Warriors are Xian's crowning glory, but you will also enjoy the colourful Muslim Quarter, city wall and pagodas. Accommodation: Uaa Hotel

Day 8 Depart Guilin Today transfer from your hotel to the airport for your onward flight. Price from ÂŁ995 per person, based on twin share.

tional flights are not included.

BEIJING â&#x2DC;&#x2026;

Xian

CHINA

Guilin Yangshuo Hong Kong

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YANGTZE AND BEYOND 18 Day Small Group Tour

Experience the dramatic landscape of the Three Gorges of the Yangtze River. Get to know Beijing's secret hutongs, Shanghai's modern treasures, and spend time soaking up the spectacular scenery in Guilin

Day 1 Arrive Beijing Upon arrival in Beijing you will be met and transferred to your hotel. Tonight meet your tour leader (or local guide) for welcome drinks and a tour briefing. Hotel: Novotel Xinqiao - 4 nights Day 2 Beijing Explore Beijing's fascinating hutongs by rickshaw, visit the Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square and the Drum Tower.

and Longsheng. Staying in mainly 3-4 star hotels, escorted by both a

Day 3 Beijing See the Great Wall at Mutianyu with fewer tourists than other sites.

Western tour leader, based on a minimum of seven travellers, and a local English-speaking guide. Groups are never more than 16 travellers in size. Guaranteed departures. International flights are not included.

Day 4 Beijing Visit the Temple of Heaven, Planning Exhibition Hall and Summer Palace before taking the overnight train to Xian. Day 5 Xian Fly to Xian and enjoy the colourful Muslim Quarter, city wall and pagodas. Hotel: UAA Hotel - 2 nights Day 6 Xian See the Terracotta Warriors. Day 7 Xian to Guilin Fly to Guilin to climb Fubo Hill and visit the Chinese Medicine Institute. Hotel: Universal Hotel - 2 nights

BEIJING â&#x2DC;&#x2026;

Day 8 Longsheng Visit the stunning rice terraces and minority villages of Longsheng.

CHINA Xian Chongqing

Shanghai

Day 11 Yangshuo to Yangtze River Start the day with a relaxing tai chi lesson before flying from Guilin to Chongqing to board your cruise ship. Hotel: Victoria Grace - 3 nights Days 12-13 Yangtze River Cruise away from busy Chongqing and enjoy views of passing boats and stunning gorges. Day 14 Yangtze River to Shanghai The dam is an incredible undertaking that will leave you in awe. This morning, visit the Three Gorges Dam Site on shore before disembarking from the ship and travelling on to Shanghai. Hotel: Park Hotel - 4 nights Day 15 Shanghai Experience the regal Bund, Yu Gardens, Shanghai Museum and Urban Planning Exhibition Centre. Day 16 Shanghai Enjoy a day-trip to Zhujiajiao, visit the Jade Buddha Temple and see a spectacular acrobatics performance. Day 17 Shanghai Learn about the ancient practice of Feng Shui, visit the Propaganda Poster Arts Centre and explore the Old Chinese Quarter. Day 18 Depart Shanghai Today transfer from your hotel to the airport for your onward flight.

Day 9 Guilin to Yangshuo Take a river cruise through the beautiful limestone mountains set on the banks of the Li River, an inspiration to poets and painters for centuries. Hotel: Yangshuo Regency - 2 nights

Note: Cruise boats and itineraries are subject to change depending on weather conditions and water levels.

Day 10 Yangshuo Cycle through Yangshuo's verdant rice paddies and absorb this quaint town's atmosphere and culture.

Price from ÂŁ2320 per person, based on twinshare

Longsheng Guilin Yangshuo

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HONG KONG Travel Hong Kong receives direct flights from around the world. There is a dedicated rail link, the Airport Express that offers the quickest route to the city in just 24 minutes. The MTR system offers connections to all parts of the city. We can arrange for you to be met on arrival at Hong Kong International Airport and transferred privately to your chosen accommodation. From £33. Attractions Enjoy fantastic views of the Hong Kong skyline from Victoria Peak, reached via the Peak Tram. Shop in the vibrant, neon-lit streets of

Kowloon, or the smart shopping centres in Causeway Bay. Visit the fishing village of Aberdeen for Stanley Market. Enjoy a ride on the Star Ferry that links Kowloon with Hong Kong Island. Take the cable-car to outlying Lantau Island, one of 260 outlying islands, for 360° views. When to go November to February is a good time to visit, when humidity is at its lowest with little rainfall and generally sunny weather. The rainy season tends to be April to June and the hottest months are July to September when the temperature can reach 35°C.

Hong Kong has 5000 years of Chinese culture and only 150 years of colonial rule. The gateway to China, Hong Kong has lost none of its appeal since the hand over in 1997. Hong Kong Island, the birth

Harbour City Shopping Centre

place of the former British colony offers a spectacular skyline, while a Star Ferry ride across the magnificent harbour brings you to vibrant Kowloon, offering a fascinating mix of streets, malls and markets.

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4 2

Star Ferry Pier

HONG KONG 3 Victoria Park

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HONG KONG Hotels

★★★★★

HARBOUR GRAND HONG KONG

KOWLOON SHANGRI-LA

The brand new Harbour Grand Hotel, part of the Harbour Plaza Group, occupies a superb location on Hong Hong Island, close to Causeway Bay and offering some of the best, unobstructed harbour views in Hong Kong. Wanchai and Central are nearby and with an MTR station a few minutes’ walk away; guests have easy access to the rest of the city. All 828 rooms offer superb harbour views. Facilities include a large outdoor heated pool, kid’s pool, jacuzzi, gym, a spa, bars and a great choice of restaurants.

The award-winning Kowloon Shangri-La is conveniently situated in the Tsimshatsui East shopping and entertainment district overlooking the world famous Victoria Harbour. The rooms and suites are among the most spacious in Hong Kong, featuring a floor-to-ceiling bay window with views of the city or harbour. Upgrade to the Horizon Club and benefit from club access and free breakfast daily. Facilities include 7 restaurants, bar and lounge, gym, indoor swimming pool, whirlpool and sauna.

Offer Free upgrade and free night for 4 night stays. Dates vary.

Offer Free room upgrade for 4 night stays. Dates vary, call for details.

Prices from £58 per person per night, based on room only.

Prices from £113 per person per night, based on room only.

★★★★

★★★★★

METROPARK HOTEL CAUSEWAY BAY

HARBOUR GRAND KOWLOON

Floor-to-ceiling windows feature throughout the 33 storey Metropark Hotel, providing magnificent views of Hong Kong's famous Victoria Harbour and Park. Located in Causeway Bay, one of Hong Kong's leading shopping and entertainment districts. Facilities include an impressive rooftop outdoor pool, jacuzzi, sauna, gym, restaurant and bar. The nearest MTR station is a two minute walk from the hotel and there is also a free hotel shuttle bus to Causeway Bay for shopping and dining.

The Harbour Grand Kowloon enjoys one of the most unique locations in the city, right on the Kowloon waterfront, just a 5 minute drive from the MTR station and bustling Tsimshatsui by free hotel shuttle bus. Guests have a choice of courtview or the highly recommended harbourview rooms. Upgrade to a club room for club lounge access and complimentary breakfast. Facilities include a superb rooftop pool, whirlpool, sauna, steam room, fitness centre, bar and a choice of six renowned restaurants.

Offer Receive a free upgrade for 3 night stays. 1 May - 31 Aug 12.

Offer Free room upgrade for 3 night stays. Offer dates vary, call for details.

Prices from £36 per person per night, based on room only.

Prices £61 per person per night, based on room only.

INSPIRED BY ASIA

CHINA

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SINGAPORE

Singapore is about as westernised as Asia gets. A sparkling, clean city that retains a grip on tradition, Singapore offers some of

3 1

the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s best shopping and hotels,

National Museum and Art Gallery

along with some fantastic cuisine. Be sure

2 4 City Hall

to check out Chinatown, Boat Quay and

Marina Bay Golf Course

Raffles Place

Little India. Sentosa is Singaporeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s own island resort getaway. Located just a 15minute drive from the city, it is accessible by cable car, taxi or pre-booked transfer.

SINGAPORE SENTOSA

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SINGAPORE Hotels

★★★★★

SHANGRI-LA HOTEL SINGAPORE

THE FULLERTON

Consistently ranked as one of the top luxury hotels in Asia, Shangri-La Hotel Singapore sits amidst 15 acres of lush gardens. It is a rarity to have such space in the city just a short stroll from the main entertainment and shopping area of Orchard Road. There are 750 luxury rooms and suites in three distinctive wings; the contemporary Tower Wing, the tropical Garden Wing and the exclusive Valley Wing. Facilities include free wi-fi, an outdoor pool, 24hr gym, spa, sauna and choice of restaurants.

Once home to the General Post Office, The Singapore Club and the Chamber of Commerce, The Fullerton is a luxury hotel with 400 rooms and suites carefully designed to provide travellers with a sanctuary of serenity and comfort. With a dynamic central Singapore hotel location in the heart of the financial and arts districts, the hotel successfully blends rich heritage with contemporary style and personalised service to offer guests a world-class accommodation experience.

Offer Receive 4 nights for the price of 3. Offer dates vary, call for details.

Offer Receive a 5% discount for 5 night stays. Year round.

Prices from £118 per person per night, based on room only.

Prices from £122 per person per night, based on room only.

★★★★

TRADERS HOTEL SINGAPORE

PARK HOTEL CLARKE QUAY

Traders Hotel is located in at the top of Orchard Road on fashionable Orchard Spring, an easy stroll to Orchard Road (a complimentary shuttle bus service is provided), Singapore’s premiere shopping district. Next door is Tanglin Mall for shopping and Singapore’s famed Botanical Gardens. Facilities include a fully-equipped fitness centre with gymnasium, sauna, steam bath, massage, spa treatments, heated whirlpool, outdoor swimming pool, kids’ pool, choice of bars and restaurants. Free wifi.

The Park Hotel Clarke Quay is a newly opened stylish hotel located along the picturesque Singapore River. Clarke Quay offers a superb location within Singapore. Here you have a great range of restaurants, bars and the walks alongside the river are memorable. A taxi to the Orchard Road shopping area is a 10-minute journey. This 10-storey hotel offers 336 rooms which are small but cosy and well-appointed. Facilities include an outdoor pool, tropical gardens, sun terrace, gym, bars and a restaurant.

Offer Receive free breakfast at weekends. Call for details.

Offer Receive 3 nights for the price of 2. Offer dates vary, call for details.

Prices from £80 per person per night, based on room only.

Prices from £70 per person per night, based on room only.

INSPIRED BY ASIA

SINGAPORE

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JAPAN

Japan is a country of many contrasts, where the very latest in high-tech vies with age-old traditions. Experience the bustling city of Tokyo, the traditional imperial city of Kyoto, iconic Mount Fuji and the beautiful countryside. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a delightful destination thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s full of surprises.

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THE BEST OF JAPAN 10 Day Small Group Tour

A journey for those who want to take in the highlight sights of Japan, contrasting visits to modern Tokyo and timeless Kyoto, with stays in rustic Takayama and in a comfortable Japanese inn, near Mt Fuji. Hotels are 3-star with private,

Day 1 Arrive Tokyo You will be met by your guide who will escort you to your hotel transfer. Tonight join your tour leader for welcome drinks. Hotel: Grand Prince Takanawa - 2 nights

Day 6 Takayama - Kyoto This morning you will have free time to wander the streets of Takayama’s morning market and soak up the ambience of the old town. Mid-afternoon, travel by train, via Nagoya, to graceful Kyoto.

Day 2 Tokyo Explore some of the vibrant capital’s most intriguing sights, by foot, boat and rail. Included is tea-drinking in a Japanese garden and a cruise along the Sumida River to Asakusakannon, the oldest temple in the city. Explore beautiful Meiji Jingu Shrine and mix with modish young locals at Harajuku.

Hotel: Mitsui Garden, Sanio – 4 nights

western style bathrooms, airconditioning and TV. Your journey is escorted by both a western tour leader, based on a minimum of ten travellers, and a local English-speaking guide in each location. Departure dates on request. International flights not included.

SEA OF J A PA N J A PA N

Hiroshima

Takayama TOKYO Mt Fuji ★ Kyoto Hakone Nara

PA C I F I C OCEAN

INSPIRED BY ASIA

Day 3 Tokyo - Hakone Before dawn this morning we head to the fascinating bustle of Tsukiji Fish Market, the largest fish market in Asia. In the afternoon, by train to picturesque Hakone, nestled in forested mountains and the site of our Japanese inn accommodation. Enjoy a boat cruise on Lake Ashi-no, then return to your lodging for a traditional Japanese meal and the option of an outdoor dip in a hot spring. Hotel: Hakone Yumoto – 1 night Day 4 Hakone - Takayama Today cross the Japanese Alps en route to Takayama. A treasure chest of Japanese architecture and traditions, a visit to this fascinating town contrasts with your earlier stay in the capital. Make the short walk from the station to your hotel for check-in, then wander through one of Japan’s most atmospheric towns. Hotel: Best Western Takayama – 3 nights Day 5 Takayama on foot Set out on a walking tour of old Takayama through narrow streets, shrines and sake stalls. See the Festival Floats Exhibition Hall, Takayama Jinya, historic wooden houses in Kami Sannomachi Street, and more.

Day 7 Kyoto A full day of sightseeing in the ancient capital of Japan. See Nijo Castle and the Golden Temple, a sparkling highlight of any visit to Kyoto. Enjoy the bustling atmosphere of the old market streets in Higashiyama district as you make your way up to Kiyomizudera Temple. Also today you will walk down narrow ‘Pontocho’, perhaps the world’s quaintest lane and the home to local eateries, bars and tea houses. End with a visit to Gion, famed for its geisha courtesan. Day 8 Hiroshima Take the bullet train to Hiroshima - the first atomic bomb target - and nearby Miyajima Island with its famous floating shrine gate. Visit the Peace Park Museum then return to Kyoto. Day 9 Nara and Kyoto Take a short train trip to Nara, the site of Japan’s first capital and full of treasures, including magnificent Todaiji, the largest wooden building in the world and made without a single nail, and an immense Buddha weighing more than 500 tonnes. Encounter free roaming deer in Nara Park, before returning by train to Kyoto. Day 10 Depart Kyoto Your tour leader or guide will organise your transfer by train to the airport, for your onward travels.

Price £2690 per person, based on twin share.

JAPAN

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KOREA

With its scenic beauty and unique cultural and historical heritage, Korea has much to offer visitors. A peninsular with four distinct seasons, the nation boasts picturesque valleys, mountains, rivers and beaches. Throughout the country youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll discover ancient temples and shrines, royal palaces, sculptural images, pagodas, archaeological sites, fortresses, folk villages and museums.

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THE BEST OF KOREA 8 Day Private Tour

Experience the best of Korea on this 8 day private tour. Accompanied by an Englishspeaking guide you will travel by private car as well as taking the high speed train from Seoul to Gyeongju and by a flight from Gimhae to Jeju.

Day 1 Incheon Airport Seoul You will be met on arrival and transferred to your hotel. Day 2 Seoul After breakfast visit the Gyeongbokgung palace, the primary residence of the Joseon Dynasty royal family, regarded as the most beautiful palace in Korea. Then to Insadong Antique streets, where traditional goods are on display. Transfer to Korean Folk Village where many features of the Korean culture have been collected and preserved.

Accommodation is in four star hotels and includes breakfast museums and attractions are also included. Tour departs daily. International flights not included.

DMZ

KOREA Gyeongju Busan

Jeju Island

INSPIRED BY ASIA

Day 5 Gyeongju - Busan - Jeju Travel to Busan to enjoy sightseeing in Busan City including the Fish Market and beach. Then fly to Jeju Island. Arrive at Jeju Airport and hotel check in. Day 6 Jeju Jeju Island is known as the ‘Island of the Gods’ and a popular holiday spot for Koreans. Its mixture of volcanic rock, frequent rains and temperate climate, make it similar to the Hawaii. Visit O'sulloc Green Tea Museum, then Yeomiji Botanical Garden. Transfer to Sod Island, named after the plant used to tie thatched roofs. Visit Yakcheonsa Temple, the largest Buddhist building in Asia with excellent views over the sea. The last stop is Jusangjeolli Cliff and its noted stone pillars.

daily. The entrance fees to

★ SEOUL

Day 4 Gyeongju Today explore UNESCO world heritage temples in Gyeongju: Seokguram grotto, the home of the serene stone Buddha of the 8th century and Bulguksa temple. A short ride from the Grotto is Bulguksa, one of the best-known temples in the country. Proceed to Gyeongju National Museum, Tumuli Park, Cheomseongdae Observatory.

Day 3 Seoul - DMZ - Gyeongju Journey to the Demilitarized Zone. It has been over 50 years since the outbreak of the Korean War and the drawing of the 249km cease-fire line from the East Sea to the Yellow Sea, which has created the Demilitarized Zone. Visit Imjingak Park, Freedom Bridge, The 3rd infiltration Tunnel, Dora Observatory, Dorasan Station. Return to Seoul and take a high speed train to Gyeongju. Arrive at Gyeongju Station, and hotel check in.

Day 7 Jeju Explore the west course of Jeju. Visit Sunrise Peak- a UNESCO World Heritage Site, then Seongeup Folk Village with its Confucian shrines, fortress ruins, and stone monuments. Transfer to Manjanggul Lava Tube, one of the finest lava tunnels in the world. Day 8 Jeju - Seoul - Incheon Airport Seoul Transfer to Jeju airport to take a flight to Seoul Gimpo Airport. and transfer to Incheon Airport. Prices from £2169 per person, based on twin share.

KOREA

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BOOKING CONDITIONS Your contract is with Inspired By Asia, a trading division of The Curzon Corporation Ltd, a member of ABTA. 1. Your holiday contract When you make a booking you guarantee that you have the authority to accept and do accept on behalf of your party the terms of these booking conditions. A contract will exist as soon as we issue our confirmation invoice. This contract is made on the terms of these booking conditions, which are governed by English Law, and the jurisdiction of the English Courts. 2. Your Financial Protection The Package Travel, Package Holidays and Package Tours Regulations 1992 require us to provide security for the monies that you pay for the package holidays booked from this brochure and for your repatriation in the event of our insolvency. We provide this security by way of a bond held by the Civil Aviation Authority under ATOL number 2949 and a Bond is held by ABTA. If you book arrangements other than a package holiday from this brochure, your monies are protected by way of a bond held by ABTA under number 60675/V8887. When you buy an ATOL protected air holiday package from us you will receive a Confirmation Invoice confirming your arrangements and your protection under our Air Travel Organiser’s Licence number 2949. In the unlikely event of our insolvency, the CAA will ensure that you are not stranded abroad and will arrange to refund any money you have paid to us for an advance booking. For further information visit the ATOL website at www.atol.org.uk 3. ABTA We are a member of ABTA, membership number 60675/V8887. We are obliged to maintain a high standard of service to you by ABTA’s Code of Conduct. We can also offer you an arbitration scheme for the resolution of disputes arising out of, or in connection with this contract. Further information on the Code and arbitration can be found at http://www.abta.com The arbitration scheme is arranged by ABTA and administered independently by IDRS, part of the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators. It provides for a simple and inexpensive method of arbitration on documents alone with restricted liability on you in respect of costs. Full details will be provided on request or can be obtained from the ABTA website. The Scheme does not apply to claims for an amount greater than £5,000 per person. There is also a limit of £25,000 per booking form. Neither does it apply to claims which are solely in respect of physical injury or illness or their consequences. The Scheme can however deal with compensation claims which include an element of minor injury or illness subject to a limit of £1,000 on the amount the arbitrator can award per person in respect of this element. The application for arbitration and Statement of Claim must be received by the IDRS within nine months of the date of return from the holiday. Outside this time limit arbitration under the Scheme may still be available if the company agrees, but the ABTA Code does not require such agreement. For injury and illness claims, you may like to use the ABTA / Chartered Institute of Arbitrators Mediation Procedure. This is a voluntary scheme and requires us to agree for mediation to go ahead. The aim is to help you resolve your dispute in a quick and cost effective way. Details on request or from www.abta.com. 4. Your Holiday Price We reserve the right to alter the prices of any of the holidays shown in our brochure. You will be advised of the current price of the holiday that you wish to book before your contract is confirmed. When you make your booking you must pay a deposit of £300.00 per person or 10 percent of the holiday cost – whichever is the greater. For certain holidays, such as those including extended overland tours, higher deposits may be required. In additon to this some airfares carry specific ticketing deadlines and on ocassions the full airfare will be required at the time of booking, in order for us to meet these ticketing restrictions. The balance of the price of your travel arrangements must be paid at least 8 weeks before your departure date. If the deposit and/or balance is not paid in time, we shall cancel your travel arrangements. If the balance is not paid in time we shall retain your deposit. All monies you pay to the travel agent are held by them on our behalf at all times. The price of your holiday was calculated using the following exchange rates: THB47.00, MYR4.50, USD1.56, SGD1.95, HKD12.20 as at 3rd October 2011. Changes in transportation costs, including the cost of fuel, dues, taxes or fees chargeable for services such as landing taxes or embarkation or disembarkation fees at ports and airports and exchange rates mean that the price of your travel arrangements may change after you have booked. However there will be no change within 30 days of your departure. We will absorb and you will not be charged for any increase equivalent to 2% of the price of your travel arrangements. You will be charged for the amount over and above that. If this means that you have to pay an increase of more than 10% of the price of your travel arrangements, you will have the option of accepting a change to another holiday if we are able to offer one (if this is of equivalent or higher quality you will not have to pay more but if it is of lower quality you will be refunded the difference in price), or cancelling and receiving a full refund of all monies paid, except for any amendment charges. Should you decide to cancel for this reason, you must exercise your right to do so within 14 days from the issue date printed on your final invoice. Should the price of your holiday go down due to the changes mentioned above, by more than 2% of your holiday cost, then any refund due will be paid to you. However, please note that travel arrangements are not always purchased in local currency and some apparent changes have no impact on the price of your travel due to contractual and other protection in place. 5. If You Change Your Booking If, after our confirmation invoice has been issued, you wish to change your travel arrangements in any way, for example your chosen departure date or accommodation, we will do our utmost to make these changes but it may not always be possible. Any request for changes to be made must be in writing from the person who made the booking or your travel agent. You will be asked to pay an administration charge of £30 per altered item, and any further cost we incur in making this alteration. You should be aware that these costs could increase the closer to the departure date that changes are made and you should contact us as soon as possible. Note: Certain travel arrangements (e.g. Apex Tickets) may not be changeable after a reservation has been made and any alteration request could incur a cancellation charge of up to 100% of that part of the arrangements. Please note that on scheduled airlines, name changes cannot be made under any circumstances. 6. If You Cancel Your Holiday You, or any member of your party, may cancel your travel arrangements at any time. Written notification from the person who made the booking or your travel agent on your behalf must be received at our offices. Since we incur costs in cancelling your travel arrangements, you will have to pay the applicable cancellation charges up to the maximum shown in clause 7. Note: if the reason for your cancellation is covered under the terms of your insurance policy, you may be able to reclaim these charges. 7. If We Change or Cancel Your Holiday It is unlikely that we will have to make any changes to your travel arrangements, but we do plan the arrangements many months in advance. Occasionally, we may have to make changes and we reserve the right to do so at any time.

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Most of these changes will be minor and we will advise you or your travel agent of them at the earliest possible date. We also reserve the right in any circumstances to cancel your travel arrangements. For example, if the minimum number of clients required for a particular travel arrangement is not reached, we may have to cancel it. However, we will not cancel your travel arrangements less than 8 weeks before your departure date, except for reasons of force majeure or failure by you to pay the final balance. If we are unable to provide the booked travel arrangements, you can either have a refund of all monies paid or accept an offer of alternative travel arrangements of comparable standard from us, if available (we will refund any price difference if the alternative is of a lower value). If it is necessary to cancel your travel arrangements, we will pay to you compensation as set out in this clause. Any changes to the actual airline after you have received your tickets will be notified to you as soon as possible and in all cases at check-in or at the boarding gate. Such a change is deemed to be a minor change. Other examples of minor changes include alteration of your outward/return flights by less than 12 hours, changes to aircraft type, change of accommodation to another of the same standard. If we make a major change to your holiday, we will inform you or your travel agent as soon as reasonably possible if there is time before your departure. You will have the choice of either accepting the change of arrangements, accepting an offer of alternative travel arrangements of comparable standard from us if available (we will refund any price difference if the alternative is of a lower value), or cancelling your booked holiday and receiving a full refund of all monies paid. In all cases, except where the major change arises due to reasons of force majeure, we will pay compensation as detailed below: Period before departure within which notice of Cancellation or major change is received by us or notified to you More than 56 days 55-43 days 42-31 days 30–0 days

IF WE MAKE A MAJOR CHANGE TO YOUR HOLIDAY Amount you will receive from us Nil £20 £30 £50

IF WE CANCEL YOUR HOLIDAY

IF YOU CANCEL YOUR HOLIDAY

Amount you will receive from us

MAXIMUM amount of cancellation charge

Deposit Only Monies paid + £20 Monies paid + £30 Monies paid + £50

Deposit Only 30% of holiday cost 45% of holiday cost 100% of holiday cost

Force Majeure: This means that we will not pay you compensation if we have to cancel or change your travel arrangements in any way because of unusual or unforeseeable circumstances beyond our control. These can include, for example, war, riot, industrial dispute, terrorist activity and its consequences, natural or nuclear disaster, fire, adverse weather conditions, epidemics and pandemics, unavoidable technical problems with transport. 8. If You Have A Complaint If you have a problem during your holiday, please inform the relevant supplier (e.g. your hotelier) and our resort representative immediately who will endeavour to put things right. If your complaint is not resolved locally, please follow this up within 28 days of your return home by writing to our Customer Services Department, Inspired by Asia, Southfield, Station Parade, Harrogate HG1 1HB giving your booking reference and all other relevant information. Please keep your letter concise and to the point. This will assist us to quickly identify your concerns and speed up our response to you. It is strongly recommended that you communicate any complaint to the supplier of the services in question as well as to our representative without delay and complete a report form whilst in resort. If you fail to follow this simple procedure we will have been deprived of the opportunity to investigate and rectify your complaint whilst you were in resort and this may affect your rights under this contract. 9. Our Liability to You If the contract we have with you is not performed or is improperly performed by us or our suppliers we will pay you appropriate compensation if this has affected the enjoyment of your travel arrangements. However we will not be liable where any failure in the performance of the contract is due to: you; or a third party unconnected with the provision of the travel arrangements and where the failure is unforeseeable or unavoidable; or unusual and unforeseeable circumstances beyond our control, the consequences of which could not have been avoided even if all due care had been exercised; or an event which we or our suppliers, even with all due care, could not foresee or forestall. Inspired By Asia does not accept any liability for any services or facilities which your hotel or any other supplier agrees to provide for you where the services or facilities are not advertised in our brochure and we have not agreed to arrange them. Excursions or other tours that you may choose to book or pay for whilst you are on holiday are not part of your package holiday provided by us. For any excursion or other tour that you book, your contract will be with the operator of the excursion or tour and not with us. We are not responsible for the provision of the excursion or tour or for anything that happens during the course of its provision by the operator. Our liability, except in cases involving death, injury or illness, shall be limited to a maximum of two times the cost of your travel arrangements. Our liability will also be limited in accordance with and/or in an identical manner with any relevant international convention. You can ask for copies of the transport companies' contractual terms, or the international conventions, from our offices in Harrogate. Under EU law (Regulation 261/2004) you have rights in some circumstances to refunds and/or compensation from your airline in cases of denied boarding, cancellation or delay to flights. Full details of these rights will be publicised at EU airports and will also be available from airlines. Your right to a refund and/or compensation from us is set out in clause 7. If any payments to you are due from us, any payment made to you by the airline will be deducted from this amount. If your airline does not comply with these rules you should complain to the Air Transport Users' Council on 020 7240 6061 www.auc.org.uk 10. Prompt assistance in resort If the contract we have with you is not performed or is improperly performed as a result of failures attributable to a third party unconnected with the provision of the services, or as a result of failures due to unusual and unforeseeable circumstances beyond our control, the consequences of which could not have been avoided even if all due care had been exercised, or an event which we or our suppliers, even with all due care, could not foresee or forestall, and you suffer an injury or other material loss, we will offer you such prompt assistance as is reasonable in the circumstances. This brochure is our responsibility, as your tour operator. It is not issued on behalf of, and does not commit the airlines mentioned herein or any airline whose services are used in the course of your travel arrangements. Please note that in accordance with Air Navigation Orders in order to qualify for infant status, a child must be under 2 years of age on the date of its return flight. Published November 2011. Prices from January 2012. Registered Office Milton House, 33a Milton Road, Hampton, Middlesex TW12 2LL.

inspiredbyasia.co.uk

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T H E B E S T O F T H E FA R E A S T TA I L O R - M A D E

Southfield, Station Parade, Harrogate, North Yorkshire HG1 1HB

Telephone 01423 704118

www.inspiredbyasia.co.uk

Brochure designed by Andrew Bogle. Printed by Focus Print Management.

IBA FAR EAST 2012 - 4-PAGE COVER_Layout 1 05/10/2011 17:39 Page 1

FAR EAST 2012

T H E B E S T O F T H E FA R E A S T TA I L O R - M A D E

Telephone 01423 704118

www.inspiredbyasia.co.uk

INSPIRED BY ASIA

Southfield, Station Parade, Harrogate, North Yorkshire HG1 1HB

T H E B E S T O F T H E FA R E A S T TA I L O R - M A D E