FAR EAST 2018-19
FAR EAST 2018-19
Ask your travel agent for a copy of our Australia and New Zealand brochure.
INSPIRED BY
ASIA 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
ABTA No.Y6458
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INSPIRED BY ASIA
2 Grove Park Court, Harrogate, North Yorkshire HG1 4DP Telephone 01423 565111 • www.inspiredbyasia.co.uk
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ASIA
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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BOOKING CONDITIONS reasons of force majeure, we will pay compensation per booking as detailed in this table:
does not comply with these rules you should complain to the Civil Aviation Authority via www.caa.co.uk. This brochure is our responsibility as your tour operator and was correct
Period before departure within which notice of Cancellation or major change is received by us or notified to you More than 70 days 70 - 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 Amount you will receive from us Deposit only Monies paid + £20 Monies paid + £30 Monies paid + £50
IF YOU CANCEL YOUR HOLIDAY MAXIMUM amount of cancellation charge* Deposit only 50% of holiday cost 75% of holiday cost 100% of holiday cost
The compensation we offer does not preclude you from claiming more if you are entitled to do so.
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
requirements, and any other immigration requirements are your responsibility and you should confirm these with the relevant Embassies, High Commissions and/or Consulates. It is your responsibility to ensure that all other documentation and requirements such as valid. We do not accept responsibility if you cannot travel or fulfil your travel arrangements
beyond our control or that of our supplier partners. These can include, for example (but
because you have not complied with any passport, visa, immigration requirements or other
not limited to) war, riot, industrial dispute, terrorist activity and its consequences, natural or
documentation requirements.
nuclear events, fire, adverse weather conditions, epidemics and pandemics, unavoidable
12. Brochure And Website Accuracy Every effort is taken to ensure the accuracy of the information in this brochure and on our website. However, changes to such information
8. If You Have a Complaint If you encounter a problem or have cause for complaint with
can be made at any time and we reserve the right to make such changes after publication
your travel arrangements, it should be reported immediately to our local supplier (e.g. hotel
of this brochure. As far as possible, the quotation and travel documents will contain
manager, transfer company etc.), and as soon as possible to our local representative/agent
relevant information and where we are notified of such changes we will make every effort
and they will try to rectify the problem at the time. If no representative/agent is available, or
to advise you or your travel agent. However, should we not be able to do so we cannot
if they are unable to resolve the matter to your satisfaction, please then refer to your travel
be held liable for such changes. We accept no responsibility for information and advice
documents for our contact details and contact us as soon as possible. If your complaint
provided by any third party websites or telephone numbers shown herein.
cannot be resolved locally having reported it, you must inform our representative/agent in
13. Insurance It is a condition of booking your holiday that you take out suitable insurance
the supplier or our representative/agent as per the above. For all problems or complaints, failure to comply with this procedure may mean that your right to claim any compensation you may have otherwise have been entitled to may be affected or lost as a result. Please also refer to section 3 regarding the ABTA Arbitration Scheme. 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, 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 Australasia does not accept any liability for any services or facilities which your accommodation or other supplier agrees to provide to/for you where the services or facilities are not advertised in our brochure and we have not agreed to arrange them. Excursions, tours or other arrangement 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 tour or other arrangement that you book, your contract will be with the operator of the excursion, tour or other arrangement and not with us. We are not responsible for the provision of the excursion, tour or other arrangement 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 ABTA No.Y6458
avoided even if all due care had been exercised, or an event which we or our suppliers,
(but not limited to) driving licences & permits, travel insurance, health certificates etc. are
problem or complaint that could have been rectified there and then had you notified us,
www.inspiredbyasia.co.uk
circumstances beyond our control, the consequence of which could not have been
or change your travel arrangements in any way because of unforeseeable circumstances
into the UK. If you fail to follow this procedure, we cannot accept responsibility for any
•
the provision of the services, or as a result of failures due to unusual and unforeseeable
Force Majeure: This means that we will not pay you compensation if we have to cancel
writing whilst overseas and follow this up in writing to us with 28 days of your arrival back
Telephone 01423 565111
improperly performed as a result of failures attributable to a third party unconnected with
11. Passports, Visas, Immigration And Other Documentation Your specific passport and visa
technical problems with transport.
2 Grove Park Court, Harrogate, North Yorkshire HG1 4DP
10. Prompt Assistance Overseas If the contract we have with you is not performed or is
circumstances.
up to 100% of the cost of the product.
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
arrangements.
suppliers, for example (but not limited to) airlines, accommodation, rail or touring booking and these will apply in the event of a cancellation. These fees may be any amount
ASIA
mentioned herein or any airline whose services are used in the course of your travel
*In some circumstances higher cancellation fees may be applied by certain product products. Should this be the case you will be notified of such fees before confirming your
INSPIRED BY
at the time of going to press. It is not issued on behalf of and does not commit the airlines
manner with any relevant international convention. You can ask for copies of the transport companies’ contractual terms, or the international conventions, from us. Under EU law you have the right in some circumstances to refunds and/or compensation from your airline in case of denied boarding, delay or cancellation to flights. Full details of these rights are published at EU airports and available from the relevant airline. Your right to a refund and/
cover at the time of making your reservation. Your insurance must include cover for cancellation or curtailment of your holiday as well as the cost of repatriation in the event of accident or illness. It is your responsibility to arrange suitable and adequate travel insurance. 14. Accessibility We will use all endeavours to advise clients and their travel agents of any accessibility issues at any of the properties and tours we use. As far as possible, the quotation and travel documents will contain relevant information and where we are notified of such changes we will make every effort to advise you or your travel agent. However, should we not be notified or are unable to advise you or your travel agents, we cannot be held liable for such changes. 15. Data Protection In order to process your booking and to ensure that your travel arrangements run smoothly and meet your requirements, we need to use the information you provide (such as name, address, any special needs/dietary requirements etc.). We take full responsibility for ensuring that proper security measures are in place to protect your information. We must pass the information on to the relevant suppliers of your travel arrangements such as airlines, hotels, transport companies etc. The information may also be provided to public authorities such as customs/immigration if required by them, or as required by law. Additionally, as your holiday is outside of the European Economic Area, controls on data protection in your destination may not be as strong as the legal requirements in this country. We will not, however, pass any information onto any person not responsible for your travel arrangements or part thereof, subject to the above. This applies to any sensitive information that you or your agent gives us such as details of disabilities or dietary/religious requirements. If we are not permitted to pass such information to the relevant suppliers, we cannot provide your booking. In making this booking you consent to this information being passed on to the relevant person/s, company/ies or authority/ies. Please note that where information is also held by your travel agent, this is subject to your agent’s own data protection policy for which we cannot be held responsible. We will hold your information, where collected by us, and may use it to inform you in the future of offers, news, items of interest and brochures. If you do not wish to receive such approaches please advise us by email at info@inspiredbyasia.co.uk
or compensation from us is set out in clause 7. If any payments to you are due from us, any payment made by you to the airline will be deducted from this amount. If your airline
Published October 2017. Prices and Booking Conditions valid from 1 November 2017.
Brochure designed by Andrew Bogle. Printed by Focus All Media.
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CONTENTS
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About Inspired by Asia Using the brochure Map of the Far East Your choice of Airlines Best for . . . When to Go
10 THAILAND 13 About Thailand 14 Bangkok 17 River Kwai Tour 18 Chiang Mai & Northern Thailand 24 Hua Hin 27 Koh Samet 28 Koh Samui & Koh Phangan 34 Phuket 40 Khao Lak 44 Khao Sok (Elephant Hills) 46 Krabi 49 Phi Phi Islands 50 Koh Lanta 51 Koh Yao Noi 52 Best Of Thailand Day Tours 54 MALAYSIA 57 About Malaysia 58 Kuala Lumpur 60 Beyond Kuala Lumpur 61 East Coast Malaysia
62 Penang 64 Langkawi 68 Borneo 74 Pangkor Laut 75 Best of Malaysia Day Tours 76 BALI 79 About Bali 84 Ubud 86 Best of Bali Honeymoon 87 Lombok 88 Best Of Bali Tour 89 Best Of Bali Day Tours 90 INDOCHINA 93 About Indochina 94 Map Of Indochina 95 Best of Indochina Tour 96 Best of Vietnam Tour 97 Best of Vietnam & Cambodia Tour 98 Halong Bay Overnight Cruises 99 Mai Chau and Sapa Tours 100 Hanoi 102 Central and Southern Vietnam 108 Saigon 110 Mekong Delta 112 Phu Quoc 114 Best of Vietnam & Cambodia Day Tours 116 Angkor Wat & Phnom Penh
118 BURMA 119 About Burma 120 Best of Burma Tour 122 Burma River Cruises 124 CHINA 125 Best of China Tour 126 Hong Kong 129 Best of Hong Kong Day Tours 130 SINGAPORE 132 Best of Singapore Day Tours 133 Eastern & Oriental Express Rail 134 PHILIPPINES 135 About the Philippines 137 Best of the Philippines Tour 138 TAIWAN 139 About Taiwan 140 Best of Taiwan Tour 142 JAPAN 143 About Japan 144 Best of Japan Tour
146 Booking Conditions
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FIVE GOOD REASONS TO CHOOSE 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 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 4067, and for holidays which do not include air travel, your financial protection is administered by ABTA number Y6458. Your Financial Protection When you buy an ATOL protected flight or flight inclusive holiday from us you will receive an ATOL Certificate. This lists what is financially protected, where you can get information on what this means for you and who to contact if things go wrong.
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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 worldclass, 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.
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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 visas we recommend the Travel Visa Company. Call 01270 250 590 or visit their website at: www.thetravelvisacompany.co.uk 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 hotel’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 your 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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INSPIRED BY
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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 Xian
Taipei
TA I WA N Kaohsiung
Manila Naga
PHILIPPINES Cebu
Davao
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YOUR CHOICE OF AIRLINES
Award-winning Emirates is one of the fastest growing
Celebrating over 50 years of service, Thai Airways International operates
airlines in the world. Emirates operates 17 daily flights
a double daily direct service from London Heathrow to Bangkok on its
to Dubai from 6 UK airports; London Heathrow, London
state-of-the-art A380 and A350 aircraft, with convenient connections from
Gatwick, Manchester, Newcastle, Birmingham, and
Bangkok to over 70 destinations worldwide –
Glasgow. With such an extensive network, it’s easy
including over 10 in Thailand.
to combine Dubai with a host of other destinations in Asia, the Pacific and around the world for an unforgettable travel experience.
EVA Air flies daily B777-300ER from London Heathrow’s Terminal 2 nonstop to Bangkok, and onwards to Taipei, offering passengers three cabins of service to choose from: Royal Laurel Class, the award-winning Elite Class (Premium Economy) and Economy Class. Personal seat-back, stateof-the-art touch screen audio/video on demand entertainment systems are installed in all three cabin classes.
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 4 non-stop daily flights from London Heathrow and 5 direct weekly flights from Manchester with easy connections at Singapore’s Changi airport, Singapore Airlines takes you to the heart of the Far East.
Cathay Pacific offers five daily non-stop flights from London Heathrow to Hong Kong as well as daily departures from London Gatwick and Manchester. From Hong Kong passengers can seamlessly connect to over 60 destinations in Asia, including 22 in China with sister airline Cathay Dragon and seven destinations in Australia and New Zealand.
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BEST FOR . . . INSPIRED BY ASIA RECOMMENDS
You have a wonderful choice of hotels and tours throughout the Far East. To make it easier, we have put together our top choices in a variety of categories.
BEST for BEACHES • Thong Nai Pan Noi Beach, Koh Phangan, Thailand - page 33 • Pansea Beach, Phuket, Thailand - page 38 • Tanjong Jara Beach, Malaysia, - page 61 • Tanjung Rhu Beach, Langkawi - page 65 • Ngapali Beach, Burma - page 121 • White Sand Beach, Philippines - page 136
BEST for CITY VIEWS • The Peninsula, Bangkok - page 15 • Harbour Grand Kowloon, Hong Kong page 127 • Traders Hotel Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia page 59 • Renaissance Riverside Hotel, Saigon, Vietnam - page 109 • Shangri-La Hotel, Bangkok - page 15
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BEST for FAMILIES • The Andaman Langkawi, Malaysia - page 66 • Shangri-La Rasa Ria Resort & Spa, Borneo, Malaysia - page 69 • Elephant Hills, Khao Sok, Thailand - page 44 • Cape Panwa Hotel, Phuket, Thailand page 39 • Nusa Dua Beach Resort, Bali - page 83
BEST for ADVENTURE • Danum Valley Tour, Borneo, Malaysia page 72 • Jungle Lake Safari, Khao Sok, Thailand page 44 • The Best of Burma Tour - page 120 • The Best of Indochina Tour - page 95 • The Best of Bali Tour - page 88 • Hilltribe Villages Tour, Chiang Mai, Thailand - page 22
BEST for SPA TREATMENTS • JW Marriott, Emerald Bay, Phu Quoc, Vietnam - page 113 • Spa Village Tombok, Bali - page 80 • Pangkor Laut, Malaysia - page 74 • The Sarojin, Khao Lak, Thailand - page 41 • Sala Samui, Koh Samui, Thailand - page 30 • The Samaya, Seminyak, Bali - page 82 • Naman Retreat, Danang, Vietnam - page 105
BEST for WLDLIFE • Borneo Rainforest Lodge, Borneo, Malaysia - page 71 • Taman Negara Resort, Mutiara Taman Negara, Malaysia - page 60 • Elephant Hills, Khao Sok, Thailand - page 44 • Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp & Resort, Thailand - page 20
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WHEN TO GO
Weather conditions vary throughout the Far East. Here we have given our recommendations for the best time to visit for an enjoyable stay.
THAILAND
MALAYSIA
The west coast (Phuket/Khao Lak/Krabi): November - February. The Gulf of Thailand (Koh Samui/Koh Phangan/Hua Hin/Koh Samet): December August. The north (Chiang Mai/Chiang Rai): November - March. Bangkok December - April.
BALI
The west coast (Langkawi/Penang): December - April. The east coast (Kuala Terengganu): May October. Borneo (Sabah): March-October - but very little difference year round. Kuala Lumpur December - February and May - August.
BURMA
May - September
TAIWAN October - April
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INDOCHINA
November - April
SINGAPORE February - October
HONG KONG November - February
PHILIPPINES November - April
North Vietnam (Hanoi/Halong Bay): February - April. Central Vietnam (Hue/Danang/Hoi An/Nha Trang): March - August. Southern Vietnam (Saigon/Mekong Delta/ Phu Quoc): December - April. Cambodia October - April. Laos October - April.
CHINA April - May and Sept - Oct
JAPAN October - May
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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 British Airways. There are also many indirect flights via Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Doha, Kuala Lumpur, Hong Kong and Singapore. The flying time is generally around 12 hours. Guide to the country Almost all visitors will include a stop in Bangkok, at the start or end of their Thailand holiday, and for good reason. Bangkok is an exciting city of bustling streets and markets and historic sights such as the Grand Palace. Five hundred miles to the north lies Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai and the beautiful mountain scenery of Northern Thailand, linked with so much history. The sandy beaches of Pattaya and Hua Hin continue to increase in popularity, as road links with Bangkok improve making them easier to reach. The islands of Thailand have always been popular, with dramatic views and great beaches. Choose from a superb range of islands, from established ones such as Phuket and Koh Samui to some newly discovered paradises such as Koh Phangan. Krabi features the rocky outcrop scenery seen in so many films, and the quiet but tranquil Khao Lak, just north of Phuket continues to delight visitors.
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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. Important to note British passport holders don’t need a visa unless staying for more than 30 days and the passport has at least six months validity. Thailand is 7 hours ahead of GMT. The currency is Thai Baht. Vaccinations are only a requirement if you are travelling close to the border of Burma, or if you are exploring deep into the jungle. For full details of vaccination requirements contact your doctor.
THAILAND
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BANGKOK Travel Bangkok’s 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 £23 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.
Bangkok is notorious for traffic gridlock so we recommend visitors utilise the 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, a discovery for even the most seasoned of travellers. Ancient golden temples, mystical pagodas, saffron-robed monks, towering skyscrapers and bustling openair markets. You can explore the city
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sights by river bus or tuk-tuk, browse for bargains at the local markets, marvel
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at the Grand Palace and sample the
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colourful nightlife. 1 7
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BANGKOK Hotels
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THE PENINSULA BANGKOK
SHANGRI-LA HOTEL BANGKOK
The Peninsula Bangkok mixes timeless elegance and sophistication with contemporary comfort and technology. Its distinctive design affords each of the 370 rooms and suites a stunning panoramic view over the historic Chao Phraya River and the city beyond. Some rooms with landscaped balconies. Facilities include a choice of 3 restaurants, swimming pool, spa, fitness centre, library and tennis court. Health, Culture and Harmony activities are available daily with hotel’s compliments.
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 Receive a 15% discount off some spa treatments.
Offer Receive free breakfast when staying 3 nights. Dates vary.
Prices from £133 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
Prices from £90 per person per night, based on room only.
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BANYAN TREE BANGKOK
ROYAL ORCHID SHERATON HOTEL & TOWERS
One of the tallest luxury spa hotels in the city, The Banyan Tree Bangkok is just a 40-minute drive from the airport. The hotel enjoys a central position within the central business and embassy district, but with easy access to the shopping and entertainment area of Silom Road. Facilities include a gym, spa, yoga sessions, health club and pool. Wide range of bars and restaurants with perhaps the most spectacular being the aweinspiring views from Vertigo and Moon Bar, 61 storeys above ground.
Located on the famous Chao Phraya River with unrivaled views, the Royal Orchid Sheraton is only a boat ride away from prime shopping areas, business district and the famed historical attractions. With 726 panoramic river view rooms, enjoy five-star family friendly amenities including a choice of two swimming pools surrounded by a tropical garden, a luxurious spa and 4 superb restaurants and one bar. The River City Shopping Complex is just a short walk away.
Offer Receive up to a 15% earlybird discount. Conditions apply.
Offer Receive a 15% discount when booking in advance. Offer dates vary.
Prices from £91 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
Prices from £48 per person per night, based on room only.
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THAILAND
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BANGKOK Hotels
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CHATRIUM HOTEL RIVERSIDE BANGKOK
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SIAM@SIAM DESIGN HOTEL BANGKOK
Situated beside the Chao Phraya River, this multiple award-winning 5-star hotel offers unparalleled and truly breathtaking views. Rooms are spacious and luxuriously appointed, each with river or cityscape views from the comfort of your bed or private balcony. Facilities include a choice of restaurants, a fitness centre, an infinity pool and spa. Wat Suthi Wararam and Asiatique The Riverfront, both just a few minutes’ walk away. Complimentary river boat to the nearest metro station.
Located only steps from Siam Square, this vibrant boutique hotel provides a perfect base to explore Bangkok. There is a wide range of facilities and dining options including a gym, infinity pool and sun terrace. For dining PH1 provides a sumptuous breakfast and lunch by day followed by a la carte dining and live music by night. For those looking for a view try out the rooftop Champagne, Wine and Sushi Bar. A wide choice of rooms make this hotel great for couples and families.
Offer Receive up to a 20% discount when booking in advance. Dates vary.
Offer Receive 3 nights for the price of 2 nights. Dates vary.
Prices from £63 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
Prices from £49 per person per night, based on room only.
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ANANTARA BANGKOK RIVERSIDE RESORT
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REMBRANDT HOTEL BANGKOK
With its classical Thai architecture, lush gardens and cool river breezes the Anantara Bangkok Riverside Resort & Spa offers all the tranquility of a resort. Take the free shuttle boat to the Skytrain station for access to the city and night market. 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. Free smart phone use in every room.
The Rembrandt Hotel is a modern stylish hotel centrally located in the Sukhumvit area of Bangkok, ten minutes away from the Asoke Sky Train and Sukhumvit Underground (MRT) stations. Facilities include a spa, a fully equipped fitness centre, pool bar, and international standard restaurants. Superior rooms are located on the lower floors, Deluxe rooms on the higher floors and Executive rooms on the top floors. Family rooms feature a King double bed and bunk beds for the children.
Offer Receive up to 20% off early bird deal. Offer dates vary.
Offer Receive 4 nights for the price of 3. Offer dates vary, call for details.
Prices from £64 per person per night, based on room only.
Prices from £31 per person per night, based on room only.
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RIVER KWAI IN STYLE 2 Day Small Group or Private Tour
Savour the historic sights of the River Kwai region on this two-day tour that can be taken as part of a small group, or as a private tour. The scenery is impressive: junglecovered hills, spectacular gorges and beautiful river views. Stay in a luxurious, boutique floating villa on a magnificent stretch of the River Kwai. Tour departs Bangkok daily, with a pick up and return to your Bangkok hotel. We can also offer a 3 Day 2 night tour; details
to the beautiful Kanchanaburi region. Visit the Thailand-Burma Railway Centre Museum, War Cemetery and Bridge over the River Kwai. Lunch at local restaurant (food only) and then take a long tail boat from the pier to The Float House River Kwai, passing by unspoiled mountainous jungle scenery. Check in on arrival. Visit the nearby ethnic Mon Tribal village. Then return to the Float House for rest and relaxation. Dinner (food only), followed by a 45-minute presentation of Mon dances.
Day 2 River Kwai to Bangkok After breakfast, take an exciting boat ride downstream to the pier and visit the Hellfire Pass Memorial, then lunch (food only). Take a historic ride on Death Railway Train, passing lush forest. Complete the tour with a transfer to Bangkok.
The Float House River Kwai Spectacularly set on a magnificent stretch of the River Kwai, in the Kanchanburi region, the Float House is 30 elegant floating villas facing a remarkable cliff. Each spacious villa Is totally private and rich in custom tailor-made teakwood furniture with thatched roofing. Each villa includes a rain shower with hot and cold water, a private terrace with sun lounger and swing chair. Dine at the gorgeous floating restaurant and bar for all day dining and drinks. Accommodation is in double or twin beds, plus an extra bed can be added to make a triple room. Prices Small Group Tour option from £232 per person, based on twin-share. Private Tour option from £460 per person, based on twin share.
and price on request. Includes • 1 night Float House air-conditioned villa • 2 lunches, 1 breakfast, 1 dinner • Touring as shown • Air-conditioned vehicle • English-speaking guide • Entrance fees • Pick up and drop off at your Bangkok hotel
Day 1 Bangkok to River Kwai Early morning pick-up from your hotel at around 6am (note: you can store your luggage at your hotel and just take an overnight bag for the tour). Journey west for around 3 hours with a break
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CHIANG MAI & NORTHERN THAILAND Travel Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai airports are served by regular scheduled services from Bangkok with a flying time of 70 minutes and 85 minutes respectively. Both airports are a 20 minute transfer to the cities. For the Anantara Golden Triangle allow an hour for the transfer. Attractions Wat Phra Trat Doi Suthep is Chiang Mai’s most important landmark and overlooks the city from its forested mountain backdrop. Close to both cities are hill tribe villages. A stay in a hilltribe lodge (page 22) is a pleasant way to experience this region.
When to go Northern Thailand 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 the north of Bangkok and set amongst the highest mountains in the country, offering superb views. This culturally significant city features historic temples, markets and an interesting old walled
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town. Further north is Chiang Rai and the Golden Triangle. An area home to several hill tribes with fascinating ways of life.
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CHIANG MAI Hotels
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TAMARIND VILLAGE CHIANG MAI
ANANTARA CHIANG MAI RESORT
Tamarind Village is a unique and charming boutique property in the heart of historic Chiang Mai. Set amid ancient temples and quaint shopping streets, it takes its name from a magnificent 200 years old tamarind tree that shelters the hotel. The 42 guest rooms and 3 suites are set around a series of garden courtyards, echoing the ethnic diversity of North Thailand. Facilities include an outdoor pool, a spa and restaurant.
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 boast 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 Anantara Chiang Mai Resort is an elegant retreat in the heart of an historical city.
Offer Receive a 10% earlybird discount. Call for details.
Offer Up to a 15% discount when booking in advance. Offer dates vary.
Prices from £50 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
Prices from £96 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
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137 PILLARS HOUSE
SALA LANNA CHIANG MAI
Built in the 1880s as part of the East Borneo Company headquarters, 137 Pillars House is a beautiful teak wood building that has been restored to reflect its 19th-century origins. Make the most of 137 Pillars House superb location and spend a moment of contemplation in the pretty gardens complete with an inviting pool. With 30 beautiful spacious suites, gourmet dining, a swimming pool, library and an array of spa treatments, this place has a warm and relaxing ambience.
Set alongside the Ping River in Chiang Mai, this boutique property features an open-air Italian restaurant. Enjoy refreshing beverages and light snacks at the rooftop Sky Bar which features panoramic views of Ping River and looks towards historic Chiang Mai. Choice of room types, with some rooms offering partial river views and some offering full river views. Facilities include a rooftop pool. Easy access to the sights and sounds of the old quarter of Chiang Mai.
Offer Receive up to 15% when booking in advance. Dates vary.
Offer 10% discount when booking in advance. Offer dates vary.
Prices from £225 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
Prices from £51 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
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GOLDEN TRIANGLE Hotel
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ANANTARA GOLDEN TRIANGLE ELEPHANT CAMP & RESORT Perched on a hill overlooking the hills of Burma and Laos, Anantara’s Golden Triangle Elephant Camp & 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 seeing an elephant walking through a bamboo jungle.
Accommodation and Facilities 14 Deluxe Three Country View Rooms, 14 Three Country View Suites and 5 Three Country View Family Suites. Facilities include a hilltop infinity pool overlooking the Mekong Valley. Enjoy a spa treatment or relax in the outdoor tub. There are three restaurants and a bar offering a range of dining options.
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The Elephant Camp Unique to the Anantara Golden Triangle, the Elephant Camp is a traditional mahout (elephant-trainer) village, located in the jungle within walking distance of the resort. Set up as a centre for the conservation of elephants, this camp offers guests of the resort a remarkable opportunity to observe the elephants up close, learn to drive an elephant, watch them bathe in the river and see how the mahouts live.
Golden Triangle Discovery Package Includes: • Accommodation with breakfast and in-room minibar • Lunch and dinner for each paying night (restaurant of your choice) • Beverages (house wines, house beers, house spirits, soft drinks and selected cocktails) • Ticket to the Opium Museum • One activity per person for each night of stay. Choice of: Elephant Camp Experience, Golden Triangle Tour, Cooking Class, 90 mins Spa Treatment.
Offer Receive a 10% discount when booking in advance. Offer dates vary.
Prices from £459 per person, based on twin share, Golden Triangle Discovery Package.
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NORTHERN THAILAND IN STYLE 6 Day Private Tour
Begin your Northern Thailand tour in the heart of the Golden Triangle with a 2 night stay at the remarkable Anantara Resort, where you can feed and bathe elephants. 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 English-speaking guide. Flights are not included. Departs daily.
Includes • 5 nights hotel accommodation • Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp & Resort for 2 nights including all meals • Free daily activity at Anantara G.Triangle • Golden Triangle Discovery Excursion • Legend Chiang Rai Resort for 1 night • Anantara Chiang Mai for 2 nights • Chiang Mai tour • Breakfast daily and other meals as shown • Private touring with an English-speaking guide • Air-conditioned vehicle
Day 1 Arrive Chiang Rai Met on arrival at Chiang Rai airport and privately transferred (around 1 hour) north to the Anantara Golden Triangle Resort and Spa (see page 20) for a two night stay. We recommend arriving into Chiang Rai as early as possible to make the most of your stay here. This luxury natural retreat is set amidst 160 acres of lush jungle, overlooking the Mekong River. All meals included and you can choose from one activity per day (included) from a choice of elephant training (which features bathing and feeding elephants), a spa treatment, a cooking class or a visit to the nearby Opium Museum. Day 2 Golden Triangle Discovery Excursion Uncover the mysteries of the fabled Golden Triangle. Bring your passport and an adventurous spirit to explore the unique character and traditions of Thailand and Myanmar, with the option of adding on an experience in Laos. Spend a day enjoying a tour of rich cultural discovery, plus an experienced guide to ease immigration, provide language assistance and help you to purchase souvenirs at the best local prices. Day 3 Anantara Golden Triangle Morning at leisure to enjoy the facilities and activities at this hotel (see page opposite for details of what is included in the stay). In the afternoon travel on to Chiang Rai. Check in and stay at the four-star The Legend Chiang
Rai Resort for a 1 night stay. Relax by the infinity pool, experience the spa (optional, additional cost) and restaurant, set on the river’s edge with fine views. Day 4 Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai Today you’ll experience the countryside and villages set between Chiang Rai and Chiang Mai, which are 115 miles apart. Visit a long neck hill tribe village and Shan village then enjoy a long-tailed boat ride on the Mae Kok River. After lunch (included) continue on to Chiang Mai, a culturally significant city set amongst the highest mountains in the country. Visit a Buddhist shrine and an elaborate cave network where local guides take you into the cool inner caves. Check in to the Anantara Chiang Mai (see page 19) for a 2 night stay. The Anantara enjoys a superb location on the banks of the Mae Ping River and close to the centre of the city and old quarter. Day 5 Chiang Mai touring Today join a tour that will take you up into the mountains, to the acclaimed temple Wat Phra That 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 continue on to San Kampaeng and Bo-Sang villages. These locations are renowned for their local cottage industries and handicrafts. Return to the Anantara Chiang Mai for the rest of the day at leisure. Day 6 Depart Chiang Mai Morning at leisure before your private transfer to Chiang Mai Airport to end your tour.
Prices from £1449 per person, based on twin share.
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NORTHERN THAILAND Small Group Tours
3 DAY HILLTRIBE VILLAGES TOUR Price includes • Touring as shown • 2 nights at Hmong Hilltribe Lodge • 3 lunches, 2 dinners and 2 breakfasts • English speaking guide • Chiang Mai hotel transfers Enjoy a unique opportunity to explore the hills around the north of Chiang Mai, by visiting several hilltribe villages, going down the rapids on a raft, trekking through the forest and biking on dirt roads. Day 1 Chiang Mai to Hmong Hilltribe Lodge Depart Chiang Mai by 4WD Land Rover or similar and visit a local market before an ox-cart ride through the rural landscape. Then embark on a river raft trip before visiting several villages. Check in at Hmong Hilltribe Lodge. Rooms are simple but comfortable. All with a private balcony and private bathroom. No air-conditioning but cool all year round. Swimming pool. Enjoy a BBQ dinner and Hmong dances.
2 DAY LUANG SAY LODGE AND CRUISE Price includes • Private transfer from Chiang Rai • 2 Day River Cruise as shown • 1 night Luang Say Lodge • 2 lunches, 1 dinner and 1 breakfast
Day 1 Chiang Rai, Thailand to Pakbeng, Laos Private transfer from your Chiang Rai hotel to the border crossing and start of the cruise at Houayxay. Cruises depart throughout the year except June. After onehour journeying along the river, the boat stops at a traditional village. This is a chance to observe rural life along the Mekong and witness the daily life of ethnic minorities and their talented craftsmanship. Lunch is served on board in a buffet style. The river cruise arrives at Luang Say Lodge near Pakbeng before sunset, giving plenty of time to refresh, enjoy the scenery of the river and admire the surrounding nature. A Laotian dinner is served on the open-air terrace overlooking the Mekong River. The Luang Say Lodge sits peacefully above the Mekong River and features 20 large pavilions offering stunning panoramic views on three sides of the Mekong.
Day 3 Hmong Hilltribe to Chiang Mai Visit to a Botanical Garden and Orchid Farm en route back to Chiang Mai.
Day 2 Pakbeng to Luang Prabang The cruise departs for another day of nature discovery along the legendary river with two stops planned along the way. Following a day along the wide Mekong river, with beautiful sceneries of mountains, wild nature, local life and delicious food, the cruise arrives at Luang Prabang, the former royal capital of Laos. Inspired by Asia can offer a wide range of hotel accommodation in the beautiful town of Luang Prabang. Please ask for details. We can also offer 3 Day 2 night cruises.
Prices from £399 per person, based on twin share.
Prices from £329 per person, based on twin share.
Day 2 Hmong Hilltribe Lodge Short drive to a small village and short stroll to Mae Pa. Then mountain biking to villages and temples. Picnic lunch. 4WD touring then return to the Lodge for dinner and overnight.
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LANNA DISCOVERY 5 Day Private Tour
Experience the charm of North Thailand on this five-day tour. You’ll see the impressive temples of both Chiang Rai and Chiang Mai and learn about the Lanna Kingdom. Sit back and relax as your guide takes you through the stunning scenery. Enjoy a boat ride on the Kok River, a visit to the infamous Golden Triangle and a chance to meet hill tribes in their villages. This is a private tour that departs on a daily basis. Flights are not included.
Includes • 2 nights Legend Hotel Chiang Rai • 2 nights Tamarind Village Chiang Mai • Breakfast daily, 3 lunches 1 traditional dinner • Air-conditioned vehicle • Touring as shown with an English- speaking guide • Entrance fees • Pick up at Chiang Rai airport and drop off at Chiang Mai airport
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Day 1 Arrive Chiang Rai Met on arrival and privately transferred to the Legend Chiang Rai for a 2 night stay in a Superior Studio room. Resting on the banks of the Mae Kok River, the 4 star Legend Chiang Rai delivers an authentic Lanna atmosphere with its blend of northern Thai architectural details, local artwork and hand-plastered white walls. Facilities include an infinity-edged pool and a spa. Some time to relax and enjoy the beautiful setting of this hotel. In the afternoon visit a local market in Chiang Rai, then on to a local temple; Wat Phra Kaew. This is one of Chiang Rai’s most famous Buddhist temples and is a good example of classic Lanna architecture. Continue on to the 14th century temple: Wat Phra Singh. Return to your hotel which features a riverside terrace restaurant with superb views. Day 2 Chiang Rai – Golden Triangle Enjoy a leisurely breakfast before a morning boat trip on the Kok River to a hilltribe village. Lunch is provided in the infamous ‘Golden Triangle’ area, where the borders of Thailand, Burma and Laos meet. Tour the Golden Triangle with its sights and sounds of traditional life that differs so much to that of the western world. Return to The Legend Hotel for your 2nd and final night. Day 3 Chiang Rai – Chiang Mai After breakfast check out and depart with a road trip to Thaton to visit the Akha and Padong longneck hill tribe villages. This is a rare opportunity to see a traditional way of life in a beautiful country setting. Take a walk through the villages with your guide and meet the local people. After lunch continue
to Chiang Mai. The drive from Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai is approximately 3 hours in total. On arrival in Chiang Mai take a drive up to the acclaimed temple, built in AD 384; Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, home to a holy relic of the Lord Buddha and considered by many to be the most sacred Wat (temple) in northern Thailand. There are far reaching views of Chiang Mai and the surrounding countryside from this hilltop temple, situated at 3500 feet. Check in to your Chiang Mai hotel; Tamarind Village for a 2 night stay in a Lanna room. This is a unique and charming 4 star property with a great location in the historic old quarter of the city. Facilities include a pool, spa and restaurant. In the evening a traditional ‘Khantoke’ dinner is served with typical Thai dishes from the northern region. Elegant Thai dancers perform. Day 4 Chiang Mai After breakfast visit an elephant camp to see the elephants at work during a half hour presentation. There is an opportunity to watch the elephants take their morning bath. After a Thai set lunch at the camp enjoy a leisurely cruise on a bamboo raft along the Ping River. Visit an Orchid Farm before returning to the Tamarind Village for your 2nd and final night. There is a street market on most nights of the week which is just a short walk from your hotel. Day 5 Depart Chiang Mai Breakfast then a private transfer to Chiang Mai Airport for your onward journey.
Prices from £899 per person, based on twin share.
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HUA HIN Travel Hua Hin is located approximately 120 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 £50 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
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royalty and located on the sunrise side of the Thai Gulf, some three hours southwest of Bangkok. Essentially Hua Hin is a quiet and relaxing seaside resort with a fine stretch of sandy beach and a host of attractions nearby such as national parks and historical sites. Six of the country’s best golf courses are within easy reach. 1 2
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HUA HIN Hotels
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CENTARA GRAND BEACH RESORT & VILLAS HUA HIN 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 has fully retained its old-world charm. Accommodation There are 207 luxuriously appointed rooms and suites, including the Club executive floor, each with its own private balcony overlooking the ocean or landscaped gardens. High ceilings, period-style furniture and a décor that uses rich polished hardwood softened by the warm tones of Thai silk evoke the spirit of the 1920s. The 42 villas set amongst the extensive gardens, with spacious living accommodation and the option of their own pool, offer privacy along with the ultimate in luxury. All rooms have flat screen TVs with international channels, room safe, minibar, tea and coffee making facilities, hairdryer, and high speed Internet access. The Club offers unrivalled levels of facilities and services with exclusive Club Lounge access, including five daily meal presentations, cocktails and concierge service.
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Facilities With its location on the beachfront, the hotel is perfect for swimming and boating, and just for lazing on the beach. Two putting greens, four swimming pools, two tennis courts, a snooker room, badminton, table tennis and a fitness centre offer superb opportunities for leisure and keeping fit, and there is a children’s playground.The Royal Hua Hin Golf Course opened in the same year as the Railway Hotel, and has in recent years been joined by several other international standard courses, making the little town a prime destination for golfers. With the spacious tropical gardens forming a backdrop, SPA Cenvaree offers a full range of luxurious massage and body treatments combining ancient Asian therapies with modern technology that detoxifies and re-mineralises the body and soothes the mind. Choice of 5 restaurants, a café and bar.
Offer Receive up to 7 nights free during the low season.
Prices from £101 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
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HUA HIN Hotels
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CAPE NIDHRA HOTEL HHHHH
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 Cape Nidhra Hotel has a private pool. Facilities include a fine dining restaurant, rooftop bar, fitness centre, pool, sauna, spa and water sports. Offer Receive up to 4 nights free during low season. Prices from £89 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
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DUSIT THANI HUA HIN HHHHH
Overlooking an idyllic beach on the Gulf of Thailand. Dusit Thani Hua Hin combines classic Thai design with modern amenities. 296 well-appointed rooms with private balconies, offering sea or tropical garden views, spacious grounds that comprise an ornamental lake, lily pond, tropical gardens, two magnificent swimming pools and much more. Full of recreational facilities, including water-sports venues, tennis and squash courts, a fitness centre and sports pavilion. A diverse choice of dining and entertainment options or the tranquil and serene Devarana Spa to rejuvenate. Offer Receive up to 10 nights free during low season. Prices from £71 per person based on room only.
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KOH SAMET Koh Samet is a three hour drive and short 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. HHHHH
PARADEE How to get there There is a three hour drive from Bangkok to Ban Phe Pier, in the province of Rayong. This is followed by a 20-minute shuttle speedboat as per the resort schedule 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.
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Hidden away at the southern tip of Koh Samet, Paradee features two secluded palm-fringed beaches. This couples only resort offers a get-away-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. Offer dates vary. Call for details. Prices from £119 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
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KOH SAMUI & KOH PHANGAN 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. Access to Koh Phangan is via Koh Samui, with speedboat transfers (45 mins) arranged by the hotels.
social scene at night. 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. On Koh Phangan we feature two hotels on beautiful Thong Nai Pan Noi Beach. 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 December.
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
Koh Samui and the smaller island of Koh Phangan located to the north, are both
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set within the Gulf of Thailand and offer beautiful sandy beaches and an island way of life. Both feature lively resorts, such as Samui’s Chaweng beach, but also offer a significant number of upscale boutiquestyle properties in quiet, scenic locations.
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KOH SAMUI Hotels
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THE RITZ CARLTON KOH SAMUI HHHHH
With 175 suites and pool villas, nestled amid 58 acres, The Ritz-Carlton overlooks the turquoise waters of the Gulf of Thailand with its extensive oceanfront. Expansive suites have generous oversized outdoor terraces with sweeping views of the sea or the tropical garden. Featuring two white sand beaches, a beach-side resort pool, a water sports centre, Muay Thai Gym, Spa Village Koh Samui with its own lap pool, two floodlit tennis courts and Ritz Kids, which offers both indoor and outdoor activities for children. Offer Receive up to a 15% discount when booking in advance. Dates vary. Prices from £310 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
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BELMOND NAPASAI HHHHH
The Belmond Napasai Koh Samui is an oasis of luxury, located along Mae Nam Beach on the north coast of Koh Samui. The resort’s exclusive, picturesque split-level beach is the largest on the island. The surrounding 17 acres of lush tropical garden further add to the sense of romantic privacy. Spacious villas offer sea views from private patios and a stylish Thai décor. Facilities include a beautiful infinity pool, a spa, two bars, choice of four restaurants, and an 8-hole championship golf course a short drive away. Offer Receive up to a 20% discount when booking in advance. Conditions apply. Prices from £103 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
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KOH SAMUI Hotels
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SANTIBURI BEACH RESORT & SPA HHHHH
Santiburi Beach Resort & Spa is set along 300 metres of dazzling beachfront at Mae Nam Beach, Samui’s best kept secret and serene ‘North Shore’. The 23-hectare grounds bloom with tropical flowers and trees aged a hundred years or more. The luxurious villas and suites serve as their own individual havens, offering ultimate peace and privacy. Facilities include a good choice of restaurants, bars, swimming pool (one of the largest freeform pools in Asia), spa, fitness centre, kids club, and library. Offer Receive up to 20% off when booking in advance. Dates vary. Prices from £128 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
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SALA SAMUI CHEONGMON BEACH RESORT HHHHH
Sala Samui Cheongmon Beach Resort is a stunning pool villa boutique resort, located on 80 metres of pristine white sandy beach on the north-east tip of the island. 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 Cheongmon Beach Resort 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 20% discount when booking in advance. Call for details. Prices from £107 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
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KOH SAMUI Hotels
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BO PHUT RESORT & SPA HHHHH
Set in pretty landscaped gardens, privacy and tranquillity reign at the Bo Phut Resort & Spa, located on Bo Phut Beach within walking distance of Fishermans Village with its range of bars and restaurants. With 61 rooms including 32 villas, some with private pools, two restaurants, an impressive spa and a pool this is a place to relax. All the rooms, suites and villas are indulgently spacious and contemporary yet retain a definite Thai style with the use of natural materials. Offer Free room upgrade for 6 nights or more earlybird deal. Dates vary. Prices from £74 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
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MELATI BEACH RESORT & SPA HHHHH
A stunning beachfront resort featuring private pool villas and a spa located on an exclusive beach at Thongson Bay, Koh Samui. The resort is conveniently located just a 10 minute drive from the airport and only a 10 minute drive to Fisherman’s Village with its choice of bars and restaurants. Set amongst a tropical landscape the villas and suites extend down the hill to a white sandy beach. Facilities include two pools, choice of bars and restaurants, a spa, a fitness centre, library and a kids club. Offer Receive up to 15% off when booking in advance. Dates vary. Prices from £86 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
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KOH SAMUI Hotels
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ZAZEN BOUTIQUE RESORT & SPA HHHHH
The charming Zazen Boutique Resort & Spa occupies an idyllic spot in the north of Koh Samui within walking distance of nearby beachfront bars and restaurants. Intimate and relaxed, the 26-room resort sits beside the white sand beach of Bophut. Distinctive bungalows are set amongst a verdant tropical garden and offer quality furnishings combined with in-room entertainment. The restaurant is renowned as one of the best on the island. Facilities include a pool, signature spa, water sports and gym. Offer Receive up to 20% off when booking in advance. Dates vary. Prices from £74 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
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BANDARA RESORT & SPA HHHH
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. Call for details. Prices from £77 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
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KOH PHANGAN Hotels
ANANTARA RASANANDA KOH PHANGAN VILLAS HHHHH
This resort is an oasis of villas and suites sprawled over 200m of sea-view frontage, along the pristine white sands of Tong Nai Pan Beach, just 35 minutes from Koh Samui by speedboat. The 64 villas and suites all feature an individual pool and terrace or balcony. The resort features the island’s first and only Japanese Teppanyaki Restaurant, Yukinoya, with daily live cooking shows in addition to romantic alfresco seaside dining options. Offer Receive up to 15% off when booking in advance. Dates vary. Prices from £104 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
SANTHIYA KOH PHANGAN RESORT & SPA HHHH
Stretched over 18 acres of glorious tropical landscape, the Santhiya Koh Phangan Resort & Spa is an eco-chic natural hideaway with glorious teakwood accommodations. Each of the 99 rooms and villas are designed with supreme craftsmanship and most offer stunning sea views. Lush tropical rainforests, a crystal-clear bay and a private beach set the perfect backdrop for gourmet meals in the restaurant and spa treatments in the spa. Facilities include a library, cooking classes, watersports and a fitness centre. Offer Receive up to 20% off when booking in advance. Dates vary. Prices from £53 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
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PHUKET 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 20-90 minutes. Inspired by Asia can pre-book private airport transfers to your hotel. 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.
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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 magnificent coves and bays, palm-fringed beaches and numerous sparkling islands. Phuket is also the gateway to numerous island resorts dotted throughout the Andaman Sea.
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PHUKET Hotels
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THE SHORE AT KATATHANI HHHHH
This 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 during the low season. Prices from £218 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
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KATATHANI PHUKET BEACH RESORT HHHHH
The Katathani Phuket Beach Resort is a popular, well established hotel facing 850 metres of unspoilt white sandy beach in secluded Kata Noi Bay. 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, four kids pools, two bubbly water springs, spa, two fitness centres, tennis, game rooms, bar and six restaurants. Offer Receive up to 10 nights free during the low season. Prices from £91 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
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PHUKET Hotels
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KATA ROCKS ★★★★★
Boasting 34 private sky villas all with ocean views and private pools, Kata Rocks is the latest property on the Phuket Luxury scene. 1, 2, 3 and 4 bedroom Sky Villas cater perfectly for couples and families alike, while a poolside restaurant, sunset bar, infinity edged pool, gym, kids club and luxury spa provide areas to dine, work out or relax. Its enviable location unlike many other five star resorts allows guests to walk out in the evening for a drink or dinner. Kata beach is located only steps from the hotel. Offer Receive up to 2 nights free and free dinner and spa treatment for 2. Dates vary. Prices from £292 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
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ANDARA RESORT AND VILLAS ★★★★★
Stunning sea views, private infinity pools with resort facilities second to none and a range of accommodation options (from 1-7 bedrooms suites and villas); Andara is the perfect choice for your holiday: be it time away with family and friends or a romantic getaway. Located on the west coast, overlooking Kamala Bay the resort offers a complimentary shuttle bus to the nearest sandy beach. Villas offer space and luxury and superb views. Offer Receive a 10% discount off food at the restaurant and at the spa. Minimum 14 night stay. Prices from £190 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
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PHUKET Hotels
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MÖVENPICK RESORT BANGTAO BEACH PHUKET HHHHH
The Mövenpick Resort Bangtao Beach Phuket blends the best of classic Thai and contemporary designs in 40 inviting residences. The one, two and three-bedroom suites offer living and dining areas, fully equipped kitchens and oversized balconies. Located just a few steps away from the secluded Bangtao Beach, it features a restaurant, infinity swimming pool, spa, health club, steam room, sauna, fitness centre and games room. There are temples and upmarket restaurants just a short walk from the hotel. Offer Receive up to 30% off when staying 7 nights or more. Dates vary. Prices from £134 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
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DUSIT THANI LAGUNA PHUKET HHHHH
The Dusit Thani Laguna is a recently renovated beach front resort with a 200m 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 3 nights free. Offer dates vary, call for details. Prices from £60 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
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PHUKET Hotels
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THE SURIN PHUKET HHHHH
The Surin Phuket elegantly punctuates the tropical landscape along the island’s finest white sand beach at the tranquil Pansea Beach on the west coast of Phuket Island. The cottages cascade downhill from the treetops towards the sea whilst the suites offer direct beach access. Facilities include a large pool with beach views, three restaurants, two bars, spa, gym, tennis and watersports. Walking distance to nearby bars and restaurants. Offer Receive up to 20% off when booking in advance. Dates vary. Prices from £104 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
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THE NAI HARN HHHHH
Nestled in a tropical hillside rainforest opposite Promthep Cape, the resort overlooks the crescentshaped beach and emerald sea. Rooms feature designer amenities and generous floor plans opening on to private terraces overlooking the ocean. Each of The Nai Harn’s 130 luxurious guestrooms and suites feature panoramic views of the azure bay, making it one of Phuket’s most relaxing beach resorts. Facilities include two restaurants, a rooftop lounge bar, swimming pool, water sports and day spa. Offer Receive up to 20% off when booking in advance. Dates vary. Prices from £88 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
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PHUKET Hotels
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BANDARA VILLAS PHUKET HHHHH
Bandara Villas Phuket is a luxurious resort located on Ai-Yon Bay, Phuket. 33 Pool villas carefully orchestrated from the hilltop to the beachfront. Every room contains a private 3.5m x 5.5m pool for relaxation with a pleasant, secluded panoramic sea view. Bandara Villas, Phuket gives you an exclusive yet cosy hideaway on a private beach where you can experience serenity unlike anywhere else. Facilities include a swimming pool, spa, fitness centre, restaurant, bar and watersports. Offer Receive up to 2 nights free. Dates vary. Prices from £117 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
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CAPE PANWA HOTEL HHHH
Renowned for its excellent service and exclusive beach, Cape Panwa Hotel’s accommodation includes Superior rooms, Junior Suites, comfortable Family Suites, stylish Cape Suites and 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 games room, watersports, fitness centre, five restaurants and five bars and regular trips to nearby Coral Island. Offer Receive up to 8 nights free. Dates vary. Prices from £46 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
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KHAO LAK
Khao Lak is an area of outstanding beauty. Pure white beaches, cascading waterfalls, spectacular forest, idyllic lagoons, estuarine mangroves and wildlife abound. Khao Lak is surrounded inland by five spectacular and adventurous national parks, including the magnificent primary rain forests of Khao Lak and Khao Sok as well as one of Thailand’s largest
Travel Khao Lak is accessed with flights via Phuket Airport, located 80 minutes south of Khao Lak. Inspired by Asia can arrange for you to be met on arrival at Phuket Airport and privately transferred to your accommodation at Khao Lak. Attractions Khao Lak is surrounded by National Parks of outstanding beauty and day trips can be arranged to experience the rainforests and maybe catch a glimpse of some wildlife. The Similan and Surin Islands Marine National Parks, among the world’s top dive sites, are less than an
hour away by boat. Phang Nga Bay, renowned for its sheer limestone formations and hidden caves and lagoons is 40 minutes away by car. 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.
natural mangrove ecosystems.
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KHAO LAK Hotels
THE SAROJIN HHHHH
Designed in a contemporary Asian style on a beautifully secluded 11 km beach, this gorgeous boutique resort has just 56 luxurious guest residences. Choose from Garden or Pool Residences or Spa Suites all with king size beds and luxurious en-suite couples bathrooms. Facilities include a la carte breakfast with sparkling wine served until 6pm! extraordinary private dining experiences, 2 restaurants, 2 bars, wine cellar, bespoke private excursions, personal guides, luxury boat, spa, pool. No children under 10 years. Offer Receive up to 10 nights free. Offer dates vary. Call for details. Prices from £87 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
LA VELA KHAO LAK HHHHH
La Vela Khao Lak is anchored on Khao Lak’s most serene stretch of beach, 80 minutes from Phuket airport. Bang Niang features a good choice of bars and restaurants within an easy walk from La Vela. This recently opened hotel features a swimming pool, spa, kids club, watersports, restaurant and bar. 181 guest rooms which come in 8 room types, ranging from the ultra-luxe Pool Access Grand Seaview and Deluxe Seaview to the more experiential Deluxe Poolside and the affordable comfort of Deluxe. Offer Receive up to 10 nights free. Dates vary. Prices from £56 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
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KHAO LAK Hotels
THE SANDS KHAO LAK BY KATATHANI HHHH
A stunning beachside resort and sister hotel to the Katathani Resort Phuket. Set on the golden sands of Nang Thong Beach and surrounded by coconut groves. Facilities include five swimming pools, a mini water slide, three bars and two restaurants, a fitness centre, spa and Thai cooking classes. Located in the centre of Khao Lak, walking distance to an array of bars and restaurants. Spacious rooms offer a balcony or terrace with ceiling fan and a day bed. Offer Receive up to 10 nights free during the low season. Prices from ÂŁ49 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
THE WATERS KHAO LAK BY KATATHANI HHHH
The Waters Khao Lak by Katathani is an adult-focused resort located in the heart of Bang Niang Village which offers a range of bars and restaurants, all within easy walking distance. The beach at Bang Niang is just a 350 yard stroll from the hotel. The 189 stylish rooms feature a private balcony and most with a pool view. Hotel facilities include seven swimming pools, a fitness centre, an in-house Italian restaurant, a swim-up bar and a free shuttle bus to and from the beach. Offer Receive up to 10 nights free during low season. Prices from ÂŁ24 per person per night including breakfast daily.
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KHAO LAK Hotels
LA FLORA RESORT & SPA HHHH
The elegant and boutique La Flora Resort and Spa is located right on a golden sandy beach, just an eighty minute 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, a spa, and a beachfront restaurant. Offer Receive up to 10 nights free. Offer dates vary. Call for details. Prices from £56 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
MANATHAI KHAO LAK HHHH
Guests of all ages enjoy Manathai Khao Lak. This stylish 158-room hotel is located on an stunning stretch beach in one of Thailand’s most beautiful coastal regions, just one hour north of Phuket International Airport. The resort offers a varied choice of spacious, comfortable rooms surrounded by soothing tropical gardens with an expansive ocean view pool, all just steps from beautiful Bangsak beach. Authentic dining and an engaging choice of activities add to the pleasures of a memorable stay. Offer Receive a 15% discount earlybird offer, dates vary. Prices from £28 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
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KHAO SOK NATIONAL PARK (ELEPHANT HILLS)
Khao Sok National Park in south Thailand is a spectacular 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.
Travel Your package includes scheduled, joint transfers to and from Elephant Hills. Transfer options are Phuket, Khao Lak, Surat Thani, Krabi and Koh Samui. Please contact your agent for the transfer schedules. Outside of the scheduled, joint transfers we can arrange private transfers at additional cost. Elephant Hills recommends Surat Thani; the airport is small, there is less traffic and the journey is shorter than that of Phuket.
Elephant Hills Children’s Project The Children’s project started in 2005 and over the years has helped to build a library, donate to playgrounds and buy sporting equipment for three schools in Khao Sok which are sadly lacking in equipment and funds. £10 of your booking with be matched by Inspired by Asia and a donation made towards this worthwhile project.
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KHAO SOK NATIONAL PARK (ELEPHANT HILLS)
Elephant Camp 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 35 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 Rainforest Camp is 20 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 Day 1 Arrive Elephant Camp You will be met on arrival at your chosen airport and transferred to Elephant Hills. On arrival at the resort enjoy lunch before a Canoe Safari down the Sok River. In the afternoon enjoy the ‘Elephant Experience’. Interact with the Elephants and learn the secrets of their mahouts. You will prepare and feed the elephants one of their daily meals, scrub and clean and watch them bathe. Return to the Camp. Relax by the pool then dinner. Stay 1 night at Elephant Camp. Note No riding on, or trekking with the elephants. Day 2 Cheow Larn Lake After breakfast depart by van and then by longtailed boat to the luxury floating tents on Cheow Larn Lake. A stop is made at a local market en route. Enjoy self paddle canoeing on the lake and look out for monkeys swinging through the trees. Lunch and dinner and overnight. Day 3 Depart Cheow Larn Lake Breakfast then either relax by the lake, canoe or take the guided jungle trek. After lunch depart the lake with a boat and vehicle transfer to your chosen location. Note There is a minimum age of 7 for children for the 3 Day Jungle Lake Safari. We can also offer a 3 Day 2 night package but with 2 nights at the Elephant Camp and a day visit to the Rainforest Camp. From £420 per person.
Prices from £450 per person, based on twin share.
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KRABI & PHI PHI ISLANDS Travel Krabi is well served with regular scheduled flights from Bangkok, with a flying time of around 70 minutes. The transfer time from Krabi Airport to the resorts varies from 40-50 minutes. Alternatively many travellers use the access point of Phuket with its greater range of flights. Inspired by Asia can then arrange a transfer from Phuket with a journey time of around 2½ hours.
north of Ao Nang and offer a quieter environment 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 - May to Oct 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
Krabi, located 500 miles south of Bangkok on Thailand’s south-west coast, offers white-
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sand beaches, backed by dense rainforest and lapped by clear waters; some of the best in Thailand. Krabi offers some great excursions including day trips to the Phi
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Phi Islands and snorkelling at Koh Hong Island.
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KRABI Hotels
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THE TUBKAAK KRABI BOUTIQUE RESORT HHHHH
Nestled on the white sand of Tubkaak Beach with superb views towards the limestone peaks of the Ko Hong Archipelago. 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. Premier Pool Villas offer ultimate privacy for a romantic getaway and the Beach Pool Villas are only steps away from the gentle waves of the Andaman Sea. Facilities include a bar and restaurant, spa, sauna, swimming pool, jacuzzi, gym, and library. Offer Receive up to 2 nights free during the low season. Prices from £87 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
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RAYAVADEE HHHHH
A member of Leading Hotels of The World, Rayavadee is a 5 star luxury resort surrounded by beautiful beaches, dramatic limestone cliffs and tropical landscapes at the heart of Krabi’s stunning Phranang Peninsula. The resort’s 96 enchanting two-story pavilions and five luxurious villas are spread over 26 acres of coconut groves, their spacious interiors and décor providing unsurpassed comfort for the property’s highly discerning guests. Offer Receive up to 4 nights free. Offer dates vary, call for details. Prices from £163 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
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KRABI Hotels
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CENTARA GRAND BEACH RESORT & VILLAS HHHHH
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 8 nights free. Offer dates vary. Call for details. Prices from £107 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
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HOLIDAY INN RESORT KRABI, AO NANG BEACH HHHHH
Refresh yourself in resort style rooms with comfortable beds whilst enjoying stunning view of scenic Ao Nang Bay, the mangrove forest or the free form outdoor pool from your balcony. Ideal for a perfect family getaway with the kids or a couple seeking a private romantic getaway. A great choice for families: with the most expansive Kids’ Club in Krabi. Facilities include children’s playgrounds, a swim-up pool bar, restaurant and bar. Offer Receive up to 7 nights free during low season, dates vary. Prices from £60 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
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PHI PHI ISLANDS Hotels
ZEAVOLA RESORT HHHHH
Zeavola is the definition of barefoot luxury: a Thai rural village concept with teakwood. This charming resort is a romantic retreat with only 53 villas located on Phi Phi Island’s north coast set on a stunning white sand beach. Relax amongst the lush tropical garden and enjoy the beautiful beach-front location. Facilities include a pool, PADI dive centre, spa, massage, gym, 2 restaurants by the beach and a bar. Zeavola can be reached by a 1-hour resort speed boat from Phuket. Offer Receive up to 2 nights free. Offer dates vary. Call for details. Prices from £124 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
HOLIDAY INN RESORT PHI PHI ISLAND HHHHH
The Holiday Inn Resort is paradise for those seeking spotless, sparkling beaches, balmy breezes and warm, crystalline waters. 127 rooms are located in two distinct wings, charming bungalows along the pristine beachfront and the contemporary Coral Wing Studio. The new Sunset Wing features Ocean Sunset Pool Villas and Hilltop Sunset Studios positioned high on a hill overlooking the Andaman Sea. Facilities include 4 restaurants and 2 bars. Resort is a 1 hour speedboat service from Phuket & Krabi. Offer Receive up to 25% off when booking in advance. Dates vary. Prices from £63 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
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KOH LANTA Koh Lanta, located to the south of Krabi, has converted from a 1980s 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. HHHHH How to get there There are regular flights from Bangkok to Krabi. From Krabi Airport you will be met and transferred by shared, air-conditioned 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. In low season an alternative crossing may be required - call for details. Round trip transfers by van and scheduled shared boat transfers are free from Krabi Airport. Transfers are available from Phuket Airport at additional cost. Price on request.
BANGKOK
Koh Lanta
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PIMALAI RESORT & 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.
and diving and even to the more distant Phi Phi Islands. Bicycles are free to use as are the tennis courts and table tennis. Hotel facilities include two infinity-edged swimming 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 unparalleled sea views.
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. 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
Offer Receive up to 10% off when booking in advance. Dates vary.
Prices from £79 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
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KOH YAO NOI Hotels
CAPE KUDU HOTEL KOH YAO NOI HHHHH
Cape Kudu Hotel, a member of Small Luxury Hotels, is located on the east-coast of the island with superb views to the towering karst islands of Phang Nga Bay. Choose from spacious Deluxe rooms which feature a large balcony, mostly sea-facing or private pool Villas. Facilities include a superb infinity swimming pool, sun terrace, restaurant, bar, cafe, reading room, fitness centre, private beach dining and spa. Cape Kudu is reached via a car transfer (20 mins) from Phuket airport then a 30-minute speedboat transfer. Offer Receive up to a 20% discount when booking in advance. Dates vary. Prices from £61 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
PARADISE KOH YAO HHHHH
A scenic speed-boat ride away from Phuket (55 mins), through the spectacular, world famous Phang Nga bay, Paradise Koh Yao is situated in a remote corner of the idyllic island of Koh Yao Noi, nestled within a tropical rainforest on it’s own private bay shared with the new luxury sister hotel TreeHouse Villas surrounded by towering limestone cliffs and epic sea views. Facilities include a choice of restaurants and bars, infinity salt water swimming pool, spa, yoga and watersports. Mountain biking and cooking classes. Offer Receive up to 20% off when booking in advance. Dates vary. Prices from £56 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
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BEST OF THAILAND DAY TOURS BANGKOK
BANGKOK
BANGKOK
City and Temples
Grand Palace
A perfect introduction to Bangkok with three top temples. Visit the Golden and Reclining Buddha Temples and the elegant Marble Temple. Even if you don’t experience any more of Bangkok’s 400 temples you’ll have seen the pick of them.Tour duration around 4 hours. Tour departs daily: morning or afternoon. Half day private tour. Price from £45 per person.
Visit the spectacular Grand Palace, one of Thailand’s must-see sights including the Royal Palace where you’ll see the Dusit Hall. Next to the holy Wat Phra Kaew ‘Emerald Buddha’ and the vast reclining Wat Po ‘Reclining Buddha’. Tour duration around 3 hours. Tour departs daily: morning or afternoon, except Sunday when the Dusit Hall at the Royal Palace is closed. Half day private tour. Price from £55 per person.
BANGKOK
BANGKOK
Floating Market The Damnoen Saduak floating market is an attractive place for visitors to experience the old style of selling and buying from small boats. Visitors will also see traditional Thai houses, the way the people live and travel by boats along the river. Tour duration around 4 hours. Tour departs daily: mornings only. Half day private tour (shared boat). Price from £59 per person.
CHIANG MAI
Highlights of Bangkok
River Kwai
City and Temples
Visit the Grand Palace and the Emerald and Reclining Buddha Temples with a 30-minute massage (included). After a local lunch (included), enjoy a boat ride and a visit to the Temple of Dawn. Stroll through the flower market before a spectacular view from the Golden Mountain. Tour duration around 8 hours. Tour departs daily. Full day private tour. Price from £160 per person.
A full day tour for anyone interested in history. Early departure with a leisurely drive to the Kanchanaburi Province. Ride on the Death Railway, visit the war museum and see the bridge. Lunch is included at a local restaurant near the bridge. Tour duration around 8 hours. Tour departs daily. Full day private tour. Price from £110 per person.
This tour takes in some of Chiang Mai’s most notable temples, as well as the local market and Tapae Gate. Highlights of this trip include Wat Chiang Man, Wat Pra Singh, Wat Chedi Luang & Wat Suan Dok. Tour duration around 3½ hours. Departs daily: morning or afternoon. Half day private tour. Price from £33 per person.
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BEST OF THAILAND DAY TOURS CHIANG MAI
CHIANG MAI
Hill Tribe and River Cruise
Elephant Jungle Sanctuary
This trip begins with a 3½ hour ride from Chiang Mai north to Thaton. Visit the Hmong hill-tribe village, followed by lunch (included). Then a 30-minute river cruise along the Mae Kok River to Baan Mai before continuing to visit three more hill-tribe villages: Akha, Palong and Long Neck Karen. Finally enjoy panoramic views from Wat Thaton. Tour duration around 10 hours. Departs daily. Full day private tour. Price from £150 per person.
This is an ethical eco-tourism project located 60 kms from Chiang Mai. The Sanctuary is a joint initiative between the Karen hill tribes and the locals and it is home to around twenty formerly mistreated elephants. Meet the elephants, feed, interact and bathe them in the river. Change of clothes and bathing suit needed. Tour duration around 9 hours. Lunch included. Departs daily. Full day small group tour. Price from £69 per person.
PHUKET
KHAO LAK
PHUKET
Phi Phi Island Set out by Cruiser Boat from Phuket to the scenic Phi Phi Islands (Phi Phi Don and Phi Phi Le), located about 45 km from Phuket. Sightseeing excursions include Lho Sa Mah and Phi Ley cove as well as Maya Bay, where the film “The Beach” was set. Time for snorkelling or exploring caves. Lunch included. Tour duration around 9-10 hours. Departs daily. Full day small group tour. Price from £110 per person.
KOH SAMUI
Phang Nga Bay by speedboat
Similan Islands by speedboat
Angthong National Marine Park
Phang Nga is the site of the 1974 James Bond film “The Man With The Golden Gun”. An afternoon lunch (included) will be served at Koh Pannyi (also known as Sea Gypsy Island) which is built over the water on stilts, before the day concludes with a tour to the dreamy landscape of Koh Khai. Tour duration around 9½ hours. Departs daily. Full day small group tour. Price from £110 per person.
The Similan Islands are 9 islands, standing as a granite-based, foliage covered, and coral loving tropical paradise. With an abundance of marine life, crystal clear water and attractive coral formations, guests will marvel at the natural beauty as they engage in a variety of activities including snorkelling or simply relaxing on the white sandy beaches and enjoying a delicious National Park Restaurant lunch (included). Tour duration around 8 hours. Departs daily. Full day small group tour. Price from £130 per person.
Angthong is a National Park of around 40 curiously shaped islands. During this tour you will experience the beautiful sight of Angthong National Marine Park and explore natural caves, blue lagoons and stunning rock formations. Enjoy sunbathing, swimming, snorkelling or just simply relaxing on the white sandy beaches. Lunch included. Tour duration 8 hours. Departs daily. Full day small group tour. Price from £90 per person.
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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.
Getting there The National carrier, Malaysia 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.
Guide to the country Start your Malaysia holiday in the capital, Kuala Lumpur. This vibrant city offers a contrast in architectural styles with the impressive Petronas Towers standing alongside colonial buildings. The beach resorts of Penang and Langkawi in the west are well-known, offering a good choice of hotels, set on sandy beaches. The east coast of the mainland includes Kuala Terengganu, a region that features picturesque villages where religion and culture are very much a part of everyday life. Malaysian Borneo is a must-see, with its beaches and mountains (Mt.Kinabalu is one of the highest mountains in SE Asia) but above all a wide range of nature, birds and wildlife. Here you can get up close to Orang Utan in Sabah.
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When to go Malaysia has a tropical climate and offers warm temperatures throughout the year, with an average monthly temperature ranging between 23°C and 32°C. There is a clear eastwest split in the weather. The west coast islands of Penang, Langkawi and Pangkor are at their best weather-wise during December to April, with the east coast enjoying drier weather from April to October. The rainy season for the west is April to October, while the east receives stormy monsoon weather during November and December. The best time to visit Borneo is March to October, with the wettest months being November to February. The capital, Kuala Lumpur remains warm year round but has less rainfall during June to August. Important to note British passport holders don’t need a visa unless they are staying for more than 60 days and the passport has at least six months validity remaining. Malaysia is eight hours ahead of GMT. The currency is the Malaysian Ringitt. Vaccinations are not normally required unless you are venturing deep into the jungles of Borneo. For full details of vaccination requirements contact your doctor. A Malaysia Tourism Tax of 10 Ringgits per room per night is payable locally at all hotels.
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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 £24 per person. Getting around the city is easy; taxis are a very reasonable option. The 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
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.
A modern, exciting capital, and home to the tallest twin-tower building in the world, Kuala Lumpur retains the charm of another era, evident in its domes, mosques and Moorish architecture. Broad modern highways and glamorous
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shopping centres contrast with colonial
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mansions and mosques.
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KUALA LUMPUR Hotels
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MANDARIN ORIENTAL KUALA LUMPUR
SHANGRI-LA HOTEL KUALA LUMPUR
As a luxury five-star hotel close to City Centre Park, Mandarin Oriental, Kuala Lumpur brings a unique combination of service, style and facilities to the Malaysian capital. Stylish air-conditioned rooms have luxurious marble bathrooms with separate showers and bathtubs. A 42-inch flatscreen TV, minibar and tea/coffee making facilities are provided. Guests can choose from 10 dining options and utilise the newly-renovated spa and wellness facilities, tennis courts, infinity pool and indoor golf centre.
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 access. Other hotel facilities include an outdoor pool, a kids’ pool, sauna, steam room, jacuzzi, fitness centre, café, poolside bar and a choice of restaurants, featuring some of Southeast Asia’s finest chefs.
Offer Receive a 5% discount when staying 4 nights or more.
Offer Receive 3 nights for the price of 2 in Suites. Call for details.
Prices from £83 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
Prices from £73 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
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THE MAJESTIC HOTEL KUALA LUMPUR
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TRADERS HOTEL KUALA LUMPUR
This city icon includes the original Hotel Majestic, a documented national heritage site built in 1932. One of the great hotels of Kuala Lumpur in its time, the refurbished neo-classical suites in the original Majestic Wing are complemented by the Tower Wing’s contemporary art-deco styled rooms. Facilities include two pools, gym, spa, orchid conservatory, bespoke tailor, old-fashioned barber and reading room. Choice of 2 bars and restaurants.
This contemporary, new generation hotel is located in the heart of Kuala Lumpur city centre. The 571 tastefully designed rooms and suites offer the best panoramic views of the Petronas Twin Towers, KLCC Park and the city’s skyline. Facilities include two stylish restaurants, an open-air rooftop SkyBar, a relaxing rooftop swimming pool, Jacuzzi, steam and sauna rooms. Complimentary Buggy Shuttle Service from the hotel to Petronas Twin Towers.
Offer Early booking discount. Offer dates vary, call for details.
Offer Free Club benefits 3 nights or more. Conditions apply.
Prices from £60 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
Prices from £58 per person per night including breakfast daily.
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BEYOND KUALA LUMPUR
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THE MAJESTIC MALACCA Set on the banks of the Malacca River in a UNESCO World Heritage Site, The Majestic Malacca, a 54-room luxurious boutique hotel, provides an experience of another age. Its rooms evoke the city’s rich history where Dutch, Portuguese and Peranakan Chinese styles merge in a cultural crossroad. From the fine teakwood fittings to the intricate designs of the original porcelain floor tiles, this classic hotel reflects Malacca’s unique heritage providing all the comforts required by the discerning traveller.
3 DAY TAMAN NEGARA NATIONAL PARK TOUR
Offer Early booking discount. Offer dates vary, call for details. Prices from £72 per person per night, based on room only.
Price includes • Chalet accommodation at Mutiara Taman Negara Resort for 2 nights • 2 breakfasts, 1 lunch and 2 dinners • Private car transfer roundtrip from Kuala Lumpur • Shared boat transfers roundtrip • Touring as shown The first and oldest national park in Malaysia is filled to the brim with exciting eco-tourism activities. Unspoilt and undisturbed, an unforgettable experience awaits you.
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CAMERON HIGHLANDS RESORT The Cameron Highlands Resort is a colonial hideaway overlooking the golf course and close to the tea plantations. Its leather couches, timber beamed ceilings and crackling fireplaces in the library and bar promise all the splendour of Cameron Highlands’ grand heritage. Spa Village Cameron Highlands with treatments steeped in the restorative properties of tea draws inspiration from age-old secrets of local ingredients, perfect for those looking to escape and experience country-style living.
Day 1 Kuala Lumpur to Kuala Taman Negara Pick up from your Kuala Lumpur hotel, then a 3 hour drive to Kuala Tembeling. From here you will take a boat journey for 2 hours to the National Park. Stay 2 nights at the Mutiara Taman Negara Resort. This hotel offers comfortable accommodation with either jungle or river views. After dinner join a night jungle walk. Day 2 Taman Negara A full day in the Park. Enjoy a motorised canoe to Lake Berkoh, and a walk along the Canopy Walkway; the longest canopy walk of its kind in the world. Day 3 Taman Negara to Kuala Lumpur Return to the city via the boat journey and private car transfer, arriving back around 5pm.
Offer Early booking discount. Offer dates vary, call for details. Prices from £72 per person per night, based on room only.
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Prices from £415 per person, based on twin share.
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EAST COAST MALAYSIA
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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 100-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 Bumbung and Serambi rooms are situated within double storey units overlooking the tropical gardens and are constructed from warm timber in traditional Malay style. Bumbung rooms occupy the upper floor, while Serambi rooms (pictured, right) include a partially covered verandah and are located on the ground floor. Both these room categories also offer sea view upgrades. The single storey, semi-detached Anjung rooms are beach cottages offering sea views.
Facilities and activities Tanjong Jara Resort includes two pools, bicycle excursions, river cruises, cooking classes, an award-winning Spa Village, two restaurants and bars. Diving and snorkelling excursions are available from March to September as well as a seasonal turtle hatchery. Offer Receive up to 25% discount for 5 night stays. Conditions apply.
Prices from £78 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
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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 £14 per person.
and a lively place to visit in the evenings. Take a pedalled trishaw ride through the city’s narrow streets and see the largest collection of 18th and 19th century houses in SE Asia.
Attractions The summit of Penang Hill, at 720m offers an interesting drive and breathtaking views of the Island. Penang is renowned for its markets. Shop for bargains at the night market in Batu Ferringhi, or the flea markets in Georgetown, the capital
visitors, with the wettest months from September to November.
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 is January and February which is also the busiest period for
Note A Penang Government fee of 3 Ringgits per room per night is payable locally at all Penang hotels. This is in addition to the Malaysia Tourism Tax of 10 Ringgits per room per night.
The Island of Penang, just off the northwest coast of Malaysia, holds a fascination for the sunseeker and historian alike. While the white sandy beaches of Batu Ferringhi are renowned, Penang is
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actually the oldest British settlement in Malaysia and visitors will delight in the historic capital Georgetown, a UNESCO World Heritage site. For a spectacular view, take a trip up Penang Hill.
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PENANG Hotels
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SHANGRI-LA’S RASA SAYANG RESORT & SPA HHHHH
Situated along Batu Feringgi Beach, the iconic Shangri-La’s Rasa Sayang Resort & Spa, Penang sits within a 30 acre tropical garden. The resort comprises 304 spacious guestrooms and suites with views of the sea or the hills of Penang. Activities include a pitch and putt golf course, 2 pools in the Garden Wing and 1 adult pool in the Rasa Wing, Adventure Zone for children, relaxing CHI, The Spa and 5 dining options. Complimentary WiFi resort-wide and a free shuttle service to the George Town, a 20-minute drive away. Offer Receive a 25% discount for 10 night stays. Offer dates vary call for details. Prices from £106 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
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EASTERN & ORIENTAL HOTEL
GOLDEN SANDS RESORT PENANG
The Eastern & Oriental Hotel is the embodiment of both a special time and a special place. For well over a century ‘The E&O’ has stood as a testament to the grand elegance of the British colonial era. Enjoying prime sea frontage, this luxurious all-suite hotels offers classic elegance with views of the gardens, the pool or out to sea. Distinctively designed rooms are spacious and full of character. Facilities include a pool, gym, sauna, restaurants and bars. Walking distance to the centre of Georgetown.
Located on Batu Ferringhi, Penang’s finest beach and set amidst tropical gardens facing the sea and sandy beach, Golden Sands Resort is part of the renowned Shangri-La Hotels and Resorts. The resort is conveniently close to the night market. Rooms offer garden or sea views. Facilities include an outdoor pool, a children’s pool, fitness centre, a Par-3 pitch and putt golf course and an Adventure Zone. Choice of four bars and restaurants.
Offer Explore Penang with the complimentary shuttle service.
Offer Receive a 25% discount for 10 night stays. Dates vary.
Prices from £95 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
Prices from £62 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
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LANGKAWI Travel There are regular flights to Langkawi from Kuala Lumpur, a flying time of 1 hour. The airport is in the west of the island, a 25 minute drive to the main town of Kuah, but transfer times vary depending on the location of your accommodation. The Andaman and The Four Seasons 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 £14 per person.
the area. There is a very good half day island-hopping cruise with a visit to the beautiful Lake of the Pregnant Maiden.
Activities Take the cable car to the summit of a mountain at 700 metres to walk across the sky bridge and enjoy spectacular views. There are also jungle treks to be taken in
Note A Langkawi Government fee of 5 Ringgits per room per night is payable at all Langkawi hotels. This is in addition to the Malaysia Tourism Tax of 10 Ringgits per room per night.
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.
Langkawi is an archipelago of 99 tropical islands but with one island in particular that plays host to a range of accommodation. Located 20 miles off the north western
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coast of Malaysia, Langkawi is a beautiful but quiet island; ideal for relaxation but
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with very little in the way of nightlife compared to its neighbour, Penang.
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Visitors will enjoy the miles of sandy
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beaches, ancient rainforests and quaint villages that Langkawi has to offer.
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LANGKAWI Hotels
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FOUR SEASONS LANGKAWI HHHHH
Set in 48-acres of lush beachfront gardens along a private mile-long beach, each of the 91 luxurious villas and pavilions draws from the beauty of their UNESCO Geopark location (the first in Southeast Asia). Guests encounter incredible flora and fauna on Naturalist-led excursions into the tangled mangroves and ancient rainforests. Resort facilities include The Geo Spa, rock-climbing, abseiling, archery, adult quiet pool, family pool, enviable water sports plus four excellent restaurants. Offer Receive a 20% discount for booking in advance. Offer dates vary, call for details. Prices from £289 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
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THE RITZ CARLTON LANGKAWI HHHHH
Fringed by lush rainforests and lapped by the clear-blue Andaman Sea, the Malaysian island of Langkawi has a new addition to its landscape: The Ritz-Carlton, Langkawi. This oceanfront resort blends beautifully with its surroundings and was designed to reflect a traditional kampong village with 90 guest rooms and 29 pool villas, three swimming pools, a locally inspired spa, international restaurants. A private cove and beach offer direct access to the island’s famed diving sites. Offer Receive up to 3 nights free. Offer dates vary, call for details. Prices from £240 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
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LANGKAWI Hotels
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THE DANNA LANGKAWI HHHHH
The Danna Langkawi is a colonial-inspired 5-star luxury hotel surrounded by verdant hills, a marina and sandy beach, just 15 minutes from the airport. Housing the largest 3-tiered infinity pool on the island, this hotel boasts 125 rooms and suites each with a private balcony. 10 newly appointed private beach villas are located on the beachside. A choice of four restaurants offer local and European cuisine. A fitness centre and spa located on the top floor oversees the view of the hills, Perdana Quay and the marina. Offer Receive up to 3 nights free. Offer dates vary, call for details. Prices from £187 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
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THE ANDAMAN LANGKAWI HHHHH
The Andaman, a Luxury Collection Resort is located in an idyllic tropical setting, tucked away between a 10-million-year-old rainforest and the tranquil Datai Bay. The 178 exquisite rooms and suites reflect a contemporary Malaysian style, with sweeping views over the Andaman Sea and the ancient rainforest. Facilities include a large freeform swimming pool, spa, kids club and gym. Choice of four restaurants, beach bar and lobby lounge. As part of the resort’s Coral Conservation project, guests are also presented with the opportunity to give back to nature through its unique Coral Nursery and Coral Reef Activities. Offer Receive up to 4 nights free. Offer dates vary, call for details. Prices from £105 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
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LANGKAWI Hotels
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MERITUS PELANGI BEACH RESORT & SPA HHHHH
Meritus Pelangi Beach Resort and Spa, Langkawi is a world of ethnic charm inspired by a Malaysian traditional village along a kilometre stretch of white sandy beach. Set amidst a lush tropical environment and award winning landscaped gardens, there are 51 single and double-storey wooden chalets thoughtfully equipped with modern conveniences for your comfort. Facilities include two outdoor swimming pools, a fitness centre, a spa, tennis, a kids’ club and two bars and choice of three restaurants. Offer Receive up to 4 nights free. Offer dates vary, call for details. Prices from £102 per person per night, based on room only.
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CASA DEL MAR LANGKAWI HHHH
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 restaurant. No children under 12 at this resort. Offer Complimentary bouquet of flowers and chocolate for honeymooners. Prices from £96 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
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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 2½ hours. The airport is five miles from Kota Kinabalu. We can arrange for you to be met on arrival and privately transferred to your accommodation. Prices vary according to the distance from the airport to the accommodation. Ask for details. Activities Most visitors will want to see Borneo’s icon, the Orang Utan. This can be done with a day trip to the Sepilok Orang
Utan Centre, at Sandakan, just a short flight from Kota Kinabalu. 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 utan 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.
Divided from Peninsular Malaysia by the South China Sea is the island of Borneo. Sabah is one of two Malaysian states on the island and is located on the north-east coast. Its capital, Kota Kinabalu serves as the gateway to the attractions of Borneo, including the Orang Utan and the country’s highest mountain, Mt. Kinabalu which, at 4095 metres, dominates the surrounding jungle-covered hills.
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BORNEO Hotels
SHANGRI-LA’S RASA RIA RESORT & SPA HHHHH
Facing a 3-kilometre long pristine beach and spread across 400 acres of lush tropical garden and rainforest is the beautiful paradise of Shangri-La’s Rasa Ria Resort & Spa. Choose from the Garden Wing or more luxurious Ocean Wing for your accommodation. Facilities include a nature reserve, pool for each wing, an 18 hole golf course, spa, fitness centre, tennis, watersports, kids’ club and a wide range of bars and restaurants. Offer Receive up to 2 nights free. Offer dates vary, call for details. Prices from £85 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
SHANGRI-LA’S TANJUNG ARU RESORT & SPA HHHHH
Located 10 minutes from Kota Kinabalu Airport, coral islands and the city centre, Shangri-La’s Tanjung Aru Resort & Spa is a tranquil retreat that offers 492 beautifully appointed mountain and sea-view rooms and suites, seven restaurants and bars, and a wealth of enjoyable recreational opportunities for families and leisure travellers to enjoy. Facilities include a pool, a kids water play area and club, tennis, nine-hole pitch and putt golf, a leisure centre, health club and spa. Offer Receive up to 2 nights free. Offer dates vary, call for details. Prices from £85 per person per night, based on room only.
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BORNEO Hotels
BUNGA RAYA ISLAND RESORT HHHHH
Bunga Raya Island Resort is a luxury getaway perched on the hillsides of Polish Bay on Gaya Island, just a 30 minute car and boat journey from Kota Kinabalu. Cocooned in a tropical jungle, this award winning, secluded resort features 48 timber villas in traditional Bornean architecture overlooking a beautiful, white sandy beach. The resort astounds at every turn whether you’re lazing on the beach, relaxing at the hilltop spa, sampling local and international cuisine or savouring a tipple at the underground wine cellar. Offer Receive 7 nights for the price of 6. Offer dates vary, call for details. Prices from £133 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
GAYA ISLAND RESORT HHHHH
Located just 15 minutes off the coast of Kota Kinabalu, the Gaya Island Resort is situated on Pulau Gaya, an island set in a natural marine conservation area. The resort is fringed by a sandy beach, verdant jungle, surrounded by coral reefs and enjoys views toward majestic Mt. Kinabalu. Accommodation is spread throughout lush rainforest and features 120 hillside villas and a two-bedroom suite. Facilities include a remarkable spa set in a mangrove, a pool, bar and restaurants. Offer Receive up to 25% discount for 5 night stays. Conditions apply. Prices from £95 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
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BORNEO Hotels
BORNEO RAINFOREST LODGE HHHH
The Borneo Rainforest Lodge is nestled in a magnificent setting alongside the Danum River flowing through a rainforest that is home to a vast array of undisturbed flora and fauna. The 3 Premium Villas and 28 individual chalets include a fan and en-suite bathroom. Experience the 27 metre high canopy walkway and the scenery from the viewing platform overlooking the river. There are several trails around the Lodge. Or just relax on the verandah. 2 Hour transfer from Lahad Datu Airport. Prices from £885 per person for a 3 day package including 2 nights accommodation, all meals, transfers from Lahad Datu Airport and activities.
ABAI JUNGLE LODGE HHH
Abai Jungle Lodge sits on the Kinabatangan River, an hour’s boat ride from Sandakan. Built on stilts, this simple but comfortable lodge provides a rustic, rural setting deep within the interior of Sabah. All the 30 spacious wooden rooms are en-suite with hot and cold recycled water, biodegradable and environmentally friendly toiletries, ceiling fan and netted windows. For wildlife lovers, 800 metre long wooden walkways extend out from the Lodge into the surrounding rainforest, enabling easy exploration. Prices £380 per person for a 3 day package including 2 nights accommodation, all meals and activities, transfers from Sandakan Airport, entry to Sepilok Orang Utan Rehabilitation Centre and the Sun Bear Conservation Centre.
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BORNEO Small Group Tours
3 DAY DANUM VALLEY TOUR Price includes • Return flights from Kota Kinabalu • Hotel transfers • 2 nights at Borneo Rainforest Lodge • 2 breakfasts, 3 lunches and 2 dinners • Touring as shown • English-speaking guide • Air-conditioned vehicles Enjoy a three day small group tour to the spectacular Danum Valley one of the richest conservation areas in the world with over 200 species of tree per hectare. A complex ecosystem, the forest is home to many endangered wildlife. Day 1 Kota Kinabalu to the Danum Valley Transfer from your hotel to Kota Kinabalu Airport for a short flight to Lahad Datu. Depart for 2 hours overland journey on gravel road to Borneo Rainforest Lodge. This is the largest protected area of lowland dipterocarp rainforest in Sabah, covering 43,800 hectares. Borneo Rainforest Lodge is located beside the Danum River. This area is home to the full range of Sabah’s lowland fauna, including Pygmy Elephants, Clouded Leopards and Orang Utans. In the afternoon an introduction to the forest through nature trails to the tree top Canopy Walkway. At night, and if weather permits, one can go spotlighting to view some nocturnal animals. Day 2 Danum Valley After breakfast, spend the day exploring the forest for birds and mammals, visiting an escarpment with ancient burial coffins. Trek to a waterfall for a dip in refreshing rock pools. In the afternoon, jungle trek or go “tubing” down the Danum River.
3 DAY ORANG UTAN AND WILDLIFE TOUR Price includes • Return flights from Kota Kinabalu • Hotel transfers • 1 night Abai Jungle Lodge • 1 night Kinabatangan Riverside Lodge • 2 breakfasts, 3 lunches and 2 dinners • Touring as shown • English-speaking guide • Air-conditioned vehicles
Combine a visit to the Sepilok Orang Utan Rehabilitation Centre with 2 nights in spectacular jungle and river scenery in search of wildlife. Day 1 Kota Kinabalu to Sandakan Early morning transfer from your hotel to the airport then a short flight to Sandakan. Short drive to the Sepilok Orang Utan Rehabilitation Centre. Wtiness the feeding of Orang Utan at the feeding platform. Later, continue to the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre. After lunch enjoy a one hour boat ride through spectacular scenery. Check in to the Abai Jungle Lodge for a 1 night stay. In the late afternoon take a sunset cruise in search of wildlife. Return to the Lodge for dinner. Day 2 River Cruise An early morning river trip to Pitas Lake to observe wildlife. Join in a tree planting project with the locals before lunch. Then cruise to Sukau Village in search of primates especially the Endemic Proboscis Monkeys and other wildlife. Check-in to the Kinabatangan Riverside Lodge for 1 night. Day 3 Sandakan to Kota Kinabalu Return to Kota Kinabalu via Sandakan. Then, if required, a transfer to your hotel.
Day 3 Danum Valley to Kota Kinabalu Morning at leisure before your return journey to Kota Kinabalu. Prices from £1014 per person, based on twin share.
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Prices from £520 per person, based on twin share.
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BORNEO Small Group Tours
5 DAY SUKAU & DANUM VALLEY TOUR Price includes • Return flights from Kota Kinabalu • Hotel transfers • 2 nights Kinabatangan Riverside Lodge • 2 nights Borneo Rainforest Lodge • 4 breakfasts, 5 lunches and 4 dinners • Touring as shown • English-speaking guide • Air-conditioned vehicles
Day 1 Kota Kinabalu to Sandakan Early morning transfer from your hotel to Kota Kinabalu Airport. Short flight to Sandakan. Drive for approximately 30 minutes to Sepilok Orang Utan Rehabilitation Centre. At this Centre, observe man’s closest relative “the Orang Utan” being rehabilitated to become wild in their natural habitat and experience a walk through a tropical lowland dipterocarp forest. Witness the feeding of Orang Utan at the feeding platform and proceed to the Orang Utan Nursery. Later, continue to the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre. After lunch in the Sepilok area enjoy a one hour boat cruise through spectacular scenery. This is a wonderful journey of discovery which starts from the waters of the Sulu Sea of Sandakan town through the magnificent scenery of the Mangrove Forest. After lunch, cruise up river to Sukau village in search of primates especially the endemic Proboscis Monkeys, birds and other wildlife. Arrive Sukau, check in at Kinabatangan Riverside Lodge. Late afternoon, river cruise to Menanggul River, a small tributary of the Kinabatangan. Return to the Lodge for dinner. Overnight at Kinabatangan Riverside Lodge Day 2 Wildlife river cruises Wake up to the calls of gibbons and hornbills. Early morning, take a river trip to the Ox-Bow Lake to observe wildlife and experience the early morning river ambience of the longest river in Sabah. Return to the Lodge for breakfast and then time at leisure. After lunch an afternoon river cruise to search for more wildlife. Dinner and overnight at Kinabatangan Riverside Lodge
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Day 3 Travel to the Danum Valley Early morning transfer overland to Lahad Datu. Drive 80kms through selectively logged forest before arriving at Borneo Rainforest Lodge beside the Danum River on the edge of 438 sq km of undisturbed lowland rainforest. The Lodge is home to the full range of Sabah’s lowland fauna, including Pygmy Elephants, Clouded Leopards and Orang Utans. Some 320 species of birds have been recorded in the area. Explore the nature trail and nearby river. In the evening a slide show and (if weather permits) spotlighting to view some nocturnal animals. Overnight at Borneo Rainforest Lodge
Day 4 The Danum Valley Morning birdwalk before breakfast. Spend the whole day exploring the forest for birds and mammals, leading up to an escarpment with ancient burial coffins. Trek to a waterfall and dip in refreshing rock pools. Lunch at the Lodge. In the afternoon a jungle walk through trails leads to a canopy walkway. Overnight at Borneo Rainforest Lodge Day 5 Danum Valley to Kota Kinabalu Morning at leisure before your return journey to Kota Kinabalu.
Prices from £1630 per person, based on twin share.
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PANGKOR LAUT Pangkor Laut is an island located off the coast of Lumut, on the west side of Peninsular 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.
HHHHH How to get there Marina Island Pangkor is the gateway to Pangkor Laut Resort - a 4 hour drive from Kuala Lumpur airport. From Marina Island jetty there is a scheduled speedboat service to Pangkor Laut (10 minute crossing, four 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 Marina Island Pangkor, to meet the pre-booked scheduled speedboat transfer.
Penang
M ALAYSI A Pangkor
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PANGKOR LAUT RESORT 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 set in the gardens 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.
on the mainland. Adventurous fishing trips and island excursions are available. For more peaceful activities there is Tai Chi, yoga and cooking classes. Resort facilities include two swimming pools (one only for spa guests) a jet pool and cold dip, gymnasium, tennis, and spa treatments at the award-winning Spa Village. This resort also offers many dining opportunities with a wide range of restaurants offering cuisine from around the world as well as private dining experiences at several stunning locations.
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
Offer Receive up to a 25% discount for 5 night stays. Conditions apply. Prices from £95 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
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BEST OF MALAYSIA Day Tours KUALA LUMPUR
KL City Discovery See the influential structures of KL city in one quick trip. This tour will take you to the National Monument, King’s Palace, National Museum, Independence Square, Kuala Lumpur City Gallery and choose to have a snapshot at the Petronas Twin Towers or National Mosque. Half day tour. Price from £38 per person.
PENANG
Heritage Discover on a Trishaw Experience bustling Georgetown on a 3-wheeled, open air trishaw that takes you to Fort Cornwallis. Enjoy a leisurely stroll to Georgetown’s heritage sites. Highlights include Weld Quay, Street of Harmony, E&O Hotel and Little India. Trishaw ride & English afternoon tea included. Half-day tour. Price from £111 per person.
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KUALA LUMPUR
PENANG
Journey to Discovery – Malacca
Penang Highlights Discovery
The historical city centre of Malacca is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This tour highlights St Peter’s Church, Porta De Santiago and the ruins of St Paul’s Church, Dutch Administration office, Cheng Hoon Teng Temple & Jonker Street. Includes lunch. Price from £92 per person.
Experience a traditional funicular train ride to the Goddess of Mercy Statue from Kek Lok Si Temple. Encounter tortoises at the pond before visiting Penang Hill. Other stops include the Fishing Village, Malay Village and Snake Temple. Includes lunch. Price from £101 per person.
LANGKAWI
Marine Life Discovery The reef platform at Pulau Payar is the main base for activities on this tour. There is an underwater observatory and mini aquarium for non-swimmers. Otherwise, head into the clear waters and marvel at the soft corals and various species of fish. Includes buffet lunch and snorkelling gear. Group tour. Price from £84 per person.
LANGKAWI
Cocktails & Sunsets Witness the sun going down on the serene Andaman Sea upon a yacht or catamaran – a perfect time to share with the special people in your life. Stand on deck or relax in the salt water Jacuzzi with an elegant drink and light appetizers. Half-day group tour. Price from £55 per person.
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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 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. 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 beautiful gardens providing the setting for a 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 choice of restaurants. Jimbaran is much quieter but with a safe swimming beach and 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.
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When to go With its proximity to the Equator, Bali is hot and generally sunny all year round, with temperatures averaging between the high 20°C and low 30°C. 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. Important to note A visa is not required for British Passport holders staying in Indonesia for less than 30 days. Please note your passport must have at least six months validity remaining. Bali is eight hours ahead of GMT. The currency is the Indonesian Rupiah, but you are advised to bring US Dollars with you. Vaccinations are not essential for visitors to Bali, Lombok or the Gili Islands but contact your Doctor for full details. Nyepi Day (dates vary each year) is silence day – a very important ritual for the Balinese. Note that on this day travel is not permited so it is best to avoid arriving, or departing Bali on this day.
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BALI Hotels
BELMOND JIMBARAN PURI HHHHH
Set amidst tropical gardens, and sitting on one of Bali’s most beautiful beaches, the Belmond Jimbaran Puri features spacious Balinese-style cottages and villas with walled terraces and indoor/outdoor bathrooms. Each stand-alone thatched roof accommodation offers breath-taking beach or garden views. Modern comforts include a flat-screen TV and a DVD player. Some offer private pools. Facilities include an infinity-edged swimming pool, children’s pool, boutique, library, 3 dining options and a beach spa. Offer Receive 6 nights for the price of 5. Offer dates vary, call for details. Prices from £175 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
SPA VILLAGE RESORT TEMBOK, BALI HHHHH
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 optional exercises, and all in a landscape of natural beauty. Spa, pool, gym, yoga, and an open restaurant with sea views. Excursions include diving and snorkelling. Kamar room pictured. Offer Receive 7 nights for the price of 6. Offer dates vary, call for details. Prices from £122 per person per night, including 3 meals per day and a daily spa treatment.
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BALI Hotels
THE PAVILIONS BALI HHHHH
Just 25 private villas hold the traditions of Balinese design alongside all the modern and personal touches expected from this luxurious boutique resort. Blessed by a prime location in the heart of the relaxing seaside town of Sanur, The Pavilions Bali is just minutes from the white sand beach. The signature Butler service and surroundings are elegant yet unobtrusive, while the individual villas, most with their own private pool, offer a generous cocoon of space. Facilities include a pool, spa and restaurant. Offer Receive up to a 30% discount when booking in advance. Offer dates vary, call for details. Prices from ÂŁ87 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
PURI SANTRIAN BEACH RESORT & SPA HHHH
The Puri Santrian Beach Resort and Spa 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; Superior, Bungalows and the luxurious Santrian Club Wing or new Premier Deluxe Wing, each wing with their own pool and stylish rooms (breakfast included). Facilities include two pools, spa, watersports, bar and two restaurants. Offer Receive up to 3 nights free. Offer dates vary, call for details. Prices from ÂŁ67 per person per night, based on room only.
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BALI Hotels
THE SAMAYA SEMINYAK BALI HHHHH
The award-winning chic Samaya Seminyak features 23 Pool Villas, and 7 Royal Pavilion Villas, set on the beachside part of the property alongside the famous Seminyak Beach. The 22 Royal Courtyard Villas are in a peaceful village courtyard setting, favoured by many, as they are larger with quaint tropical gardens and a good size lap pool, and located just a few minutes away by golf buggy ride across the street. Facilities include a pool, spa, restaurant, bar, gym and a daily shuttle bus to nearby Seminyak. Offer Receive 7 nights for the price of 6. One Bedroom Villa. Dates vary. Prices from £244 per person per night, including breakfast and afternoon tea daily.
ALILA SEMINYAK BALI HHHHH
Cocooned along a pristine beach on Bali’s southwest coast, Alila Seminyak is a stunning resort that stands on the last remaining undeveloped beachfront site in Seminyak. The close proximity of the resort to the centre of Seminyak is an undeniable attraction, a few minutes’ stroll from the resort brings you to the fashionable streets of the town that buzz with an air of laidback sophistication. 240 chic rooms and suites. Facilities include a choice of restaurants and bars, outdoor pools, gym, spa and watersports. Offer Receive up to a 15% discount when booking in advance. Offer dates vary, call for details. Prices from £105 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
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BALI Hotels
MENJANGAN DYNASTY RESORT HHHHH
Menjangan Dynasty Resort, Beach Glamping & Dive Centre offers the ultimate luxury glamping resort experience in a world class diving location within the beautiful surroundings of Northwest Bali. The resort features 24 beach camp tents and 4 tent villas, all complete with flat screen TVs & DVD players, airconditioning, minibar, safe deposit box, IDD telephones, hairdryer and full bathroom amenities. Facilities include a world-class PADI Dive Centre, two swimming pools and a fabulous cliff-top spa. Offer Receive up to a 10% discount when booking in advance. Offer dates vary, call for details. Prices from £94 per person per night, including breakfast and afternoon tea daily.
NUSA DUA BEACH HOTEL & SPA HHHHH
The Nusa Dua Beach Hotel & Spa boasts an extensive range of rejuvenated rooms and facilities designed to resemble a Balinese palace. Nestled within 23 acres of sculptured gardens, the resort, with its 382 guestrooms and suites, all with balcony or terrace, offer stunning views of tropical gardens, pool or the ocean. The resort facilities include 3 pools, kids’ club, spa, fitness centre, tennis courts, water sports and choice of five restuarants and four bars. Offer Receive up to 3 nights free. Offer dates vary, call for details. Prices from £80 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
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UBUD Hotels
THE VICEROY BALI HHHHH
The Viceroy Bali is a family owned and operated resort consisting of 25 luxuriously appointed private pool villas, majestically situated in Bali’s “Valley of the Kings”. All the private villas offer spacious yet cosy outdoor spaces with stunning valley views. Facilities include the restaurant and bar CasCades, and luxuriant spa and beauty centre Lembah, both with vistas over Ubud’s breathtaking landscape. Guests also have access to the valley-top infinity pool, boutique, gymnasium and library. Offer Receive 4 nights for the price of 3. Offer dates vary, call for details. Prices from £284 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
UMA BY COMO HHHHH
The Uma By Como is perfectly located on the fringe of Ubud, overlooking the Tjampuhan Valley, just a short drive to the centre of Ubud. This is a stylish hotel and ideal for guests wanting to be able to walk to bars and restaurants, but still be in a peaceful retreat. Terrace rooms offer garden views while the Garden rooms are spacious and include a private courtyard. Facilities include a pool, 2 restaurants, a bar, a gym and spa. Offer Receive 4 nights for the price of 3. Offer dates vary, call for details. Prices from £105 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
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UBUD Hotels
KOMANEKA AT MONKEY FOREST HHHH
Komaneka at Monkey Forest began as a residence for artists specialising in fine contemporary Balinese art. Recently renovated with luxurious suites, an infinity pool, open-air restaurant, spa, and pool villas, all in a lush garden with mature trees, this is a very special oasis. Its location on the Monkey Forest Road gives access to the Ubud market and all the cultural activities of the Ubud Palace, residence of Ubud’s ruling family. At the other end of the street, lined with restaurants and boutiques, is Monkey Forest. Offer Receive 4 nights for the price of 3. Offer dates vary, call for details. Prices from £95 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
ALILA UBUD HHHHH
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. Offer Receive 4 nights for the price of 3 nights. Offer dates vary, call for details. Prices from £92 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
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BEST OF BALI HONEYMOON
Samaya’s 5-star properties offer Honeymooners great inclusions when combining a stay at both Ubud and Seminyak. This package is based on 4 nights at Samaya Ubud staying in a One Bedroom Hill Side Villa with private pool and Jacuzzi followed by 7 nights at Samaya Seminyak staying in a One Bedroom Villa with private pool. Price includes • 11 nights hotel accommodation • Daily a la carte breakfast • Daily Afternoon Tea • Touring as shown • Butler Service at each property • Complimentary Yoga class 3 times per week at each property • Free souvenir from the Samaya Bali
Day 1 Bali Airport to Ubud You will be met on arrival and transferred to Ubud (90 minutes). Stay 4 nights at The Samaya Ubud staying in a One Bedroom Hill Side Villa with private pool and Jacuzzi. The Samaya Ubud is a 15-minute drive from central Ubud and offers luxurious private pool villa accommodation surrounded by the rice fields and hillsides of the Ayung valley. Each villa is equipped with flat-screen cable TV’s and iPod docks. The resort features 2 restaurants, fitness centre, spa and a guest activity programme. Upon arrival you will be greeted with a honeymoon cake, a flower decorated room and a flower bath in your private villa. Day 2 Ubud Touring Enjoy your a la carte breakfast at Scene restaurant or choose to have a picnic basket delivered to your villa. Today spend a full day discovering Bali and the arts haven of Ubud. Day 3 Ubud After breakfast explore Ubud using the complimentary shuttle service. In the evening enjoy a 3 course set menu dinner at the uppermost level complex of Swept Away Restaurant (excludes beverages). Day 4 Ubud Day at leisure. Day 5 Ubud to Seminyak Today you will be transferred to The Samaya Seminyak. Stay 8 nights in a One Bedroom Villa with private pool. Facilities include a pool, spa, restaurant, bar, and gym. Upon arrival you will be greeted with a honeymoon cake, a flower decorated room and a flower bath in your private villa.
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Day 6 Seminyak Enjoy your a la carte breakfast at Breeze beachfront restaurant, Brasserie in the Royal Courtyard or within your own private villa. The rest of the day is at your leisure. Day 7 Seminyak Today you will be treated to a two hour Ritual of Royalty spa treatment, designed specifically for couples. This starts with a flower petal foot ritual, continues with body exfoliation, and is followed by a Balinese massage, milk bath and finishes with a tea ceremony at Spa at The Samaya Seminyak. Day 8 Seminyak & Tanah Lot Breakfast at leisure. Today enjoy an afternoon excursion to Tanah Lot. Along the way, stops will be made to visit Taman Ayun and Sangeh Monkey Forest. Arrive at Tanah Lot temple as the sun is about to set, walk around and learn about its role in Balinese Hinduism and watch the sun disappear into the shimmering ocean. Day 9 Seminyak After breakfast explore the local area using the complimentary shuttle. Day 10 Seminyak Day at leisure. Day 11 Seminyak Enjoy a 60 minute Balinese massage at The Samaya Seminyak. Day 12 Seminyak to Bali Airport A transfer will be provided for your journey to Bali Airport.
Prices from £2040 per person, based on twin share. International flights not included.
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LOMBOK Hotels
THE OBEROI HHHHH
Located on Medana Bay, with exclusive beach access and views of Bali’s Mount Agung, and spanning twenty four acres of landscaped gardens. Accommodation is divided between thatched villas and pavilions, all of which are afforded breathtaking ocean and lush garden views. Facilities include the Oberoi Spa offering traditional Balinese, Thai, Western and signature Oberoi therapies, a dedicated PADI certified dive centre, large outdoor pool, gymnasium, tennis court and croquet lawn. Offer Receive 4 nights for the price of 3. Offer dates vary, call for details. Prices from £185 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
SHERATON SENGGIGI BEACH RESORT HHHHH
Ideally located on Senggigi Beach, on the lush western coast of Lombok, within walking distance of the town’s shops, restaurants and bars. Polished timbers, warm inviting textiles, and cosy furnishings together with an idyllic beach make this a popular place to stay. Some rooms with balcony or private terrace offering guests the chance to enjoy a fabulous Senggigi sunset. Facilities include a pool, spa, health club, sauna, tennis, bars and restaurants. Offer Receive 6 nights for the price of 5. Dates vary. Call for details. Prices from £53 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
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BEST OF BALI 6 Day Private Tour
Want to discover the real Bali? This 6 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 is an adventurous tour but with comfortable accommodation throughout. Departs daily.
Price includes • 5 nights hotel accommodation • Breakfast daily, 3 lunches • Air-conditioned vehicle • English-speaking guide Day 1 Arrival morning flight to Bali Drive to West Bali via Bedugul, a mountain resort with lush tropical vegetation. Lunch will be provided en route at a local restaurant. Accommodation: Mimpi Resort in a Patio room Day 2 West Bali to North Bali Snorkelling at Menjangan Island. The boundaries of the national park extend across the bay and include this small, unpopulated island and its coral reefs, said to have some of the finest diving in the archipelago. In the afternoon depart to Lovina (North Bali). Accommodation: Puri Bagus Lovina in a Superior Garden View room Day 3 North Bali to East Bali Early morning Dolphin tour (local boat). Then a visit to Kintamani, a village located on the rim of Mt Batur Volcano. Enjoy your lunch at Kintamani Restaurant overlooking the crater and Lake Batur. In the afternoon visit Besakih, the biggest temple in Bali, then drive via Putung village with its beautiful scenery of terraced rice fields. Accommodation: Puri Bagus Candidasa in a Deluxe Garden View Room Day 4 East Bali to Ubud Morning at leisure. Then a scenic two-hour drive to Ubud. On the way, explore the east of Bali by visiting Tenganan Village, Goa Lawah stopping at Klungkung to see the Royal Court of Justice ‘Kerta Gosa’. Accommodation: Alila Ubud in a Superior room for 2 nights
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Day 5 Ubud Pick up from your hotel in Ubud for a morning adventure cycling Mount Batur. After a general safety briefing break away from the main roads and discover hidden Bali along the paths and trails leading down from
the volcanic Mount Batur. This tour takes you through sleepy villages, past ancient temples and along leafy lanes through the rainforest that graces the mountain slopes. Stop and sample a variety of exotic fruits and spices then continue through the towering bamboo forest of Taro before ending the tour with a delicious gourmet buffet lunch at the Elephant Safari Park. After lunch you will be transferred back to your hotel. Day 6 Depart Bali Morning at leisure before your transfer to the airport. Or we can arrange further hotel accommodation to extend your stay.
Prices from £885 per person, based on twin share.
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BEST OF BALI Day Tours UBUD
UBUD
Balinese Organic cooking class Embark on a culinary adventure utilizing traditional ingredients and preparation methods, in a fully equipped community village kitchen. Your day starts early at the Ubud markets before heading off on a guided ‘padi’ Bali cooking expedition. Recipes and notes are provided. Half day tour. Price from £44 per person.
REST OF BALI
The East of Bali Explore the religious monuments, ancient villages and unique landscape of East Bali. Highlights include Kusamba, Goa Lawah temple, Tenganan village, Karangasem Royal Palace and Taman Ujung Sukasada. Last stop is the old royal bathing palace of Tirtagangga. Includes lunch. Price from £73 per person.
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REST OF BALI
Pure Ubud A full day of discovering Bali and the arts haven of Ubud. Highlights include Bali Bird Park, Pura Desa Batuan, Elephant Cave, and a short walk through the rice fields to Bebek Bengil Restaurant for lunch before shopping in the bustling Ubud Market, a must do for visitors to the town. Includes lunch. Price from £87 per person.
REST OF BALI
Tanah Lot Sunset Start this afternoon excursion with a drive towards the western shore of Bali. Along the way, stops will be made to visit Taman Ayun, the Mother Temple of Mengwi Kingdom and Sangeh Monkey Forest before arriving at Tanah Lot Temple as the sun is about to set. Half day tour. Price from £38 per person.
Lembongan Island Reef Cruise During this trip you can see Lembongan island’s exotic marine life and colourful corals from the semi-submersible coral viewer, or by going snorkelling in beautiful Lembongan Bay. Other activities include banana boat rides or a cultural tour of the island. Group tour, includes lunch. Price from £88 per person.
REST OF BALI
Kecak Uluwatu with Dinner Be mesmerized by the setting sun against the beautiful Uluwatu Temple with the shimmering Indian Ocean as the backdrop. This ‘dramatic’ experience ends with a magnificent performance by the Kecak dancers, followed by dinner at a local restaurant by Jimbaran Beach. Half day tour. Price from £70 per person.
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INDOCHINA 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 Vietnam Airlines fly directly to Hanoi and Saigon from London Heathrow. Other popular routes include flights via Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur and Singapore. Flying time to the region is around 12-13 hours. Guide to the countries Vietnam offers two outstanding cities in Saigon and Hanoi. The capital Hanoi in particular has retained much of its character and history and is the gateway to one of the region’s most amazing sights; Halong Bay. The beaches of Vietnam are becoming more and more popular, with resorts such as Hoi An, Phan Thiet and Nha Trang, but there is so much more to these areas, with impressive historical temples and busy, photogenic ports. The World Heritage site of Angkor Wat, Cambodia is famous for its beauty and splendour and a must-see on any Indochina itinerary. Luang Prabang, in the north of neighbouring Laos, is a tranquil town on the banks of the Mekong River, providing visitors with a taste of authentic Asia. When to go For Hanoi the summer months from May to October can be hot with regular downpours. Winter from November to April is cooler
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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. Important to note As of 1 July 2017, British passport holders are able to enter Vietnam for up to 15 days without a visa. You’ll still need a visa to enter Vietnam for periods of 15 days and longer and if you wish to re-enter Vietnam within 30 days of your departure. If you plan to leave Vietnam and re-enter from another country make sure you get a multiple visit visa. For Cambodia and Laos you can get a visa on arrival for $30 and $35 respectively. You must have 2 passport sized photographs and your passport must be valid for at least a further six months. For visa information please call The Visa Travel Company on 01270 250590 or visit www. thetravelvisacompany.co.uk. Please note that visa requirements can change. Please check for the latest information. For vaccination requirements for Indochina, please contact your doctor.
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THE BEST OF INDOCHINA 17 Day Private Tour
This 17 day Indochina highlights
Price includes • 16 nights accommodation • Breakfast daily, 9 lunches and 2 dinners • Private touring as shown • Flights Hanoi-Hue, Danang-Saigon, Phnom Penh-Siem Reap, Siem Reap- Luang Prabang • Air-conditioned vehicles • English-speaking guides
this frenetic city with a guided tour of the main highlights. Afternoon at leisure.
Cambodia to discover Phnom
Day 1 Hanoi You will be met at the airport and transferred to your hotel for a two night stay.
canals before lunch and overnight in Can Tho.
Penh and Angkor Wat. The trip
Day 2 Hanoi Enjoy a guided tour of Hanoi.
tour encompasses the very best of Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos. Travel south through Vietnam from Hanoi to Saigon, taking in sights such as Halong Bay, Hue and Hoi An. Cross the border into
ends in magical Laos with a stay in laid-back Luang Prabang. International flights are not included. Departs daily.
A traditional cyclo tour through the narrow, ancient streets of the exotic Old Quarter is a great way to soak up the sights. 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 - Hue Rise early to enjoy the scenery before breakfast and transfer to Hanoi Airport. En route enjoy a traditional Vietnamese lunch at a local house in Yen Duc Village. Early evening flight to Hue. Day 5 Hue Full day city tour of historic Hue, located by the Perfume River. Day 6 Hue - Hoi An Today drive south to Hoi An via the Hai Van Pass, probably the most scenic stretch of coast road in Vietnam.
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Day 9 Saigon - Cao Dai Temple - Cu Chi Tunnels Visit the fascinating Cao Dai Temple, home to a unique religion. Continue to the infamous Cu Chi Tunnels before returning to the city. Day 10 Mekong Delta Visit Cai Be floating market. Continue cruising along the Mekong
Day 11 Can Tho - Chau Doc Visit Cai Rang floating market. After lunch, walk around Chau Doc and see the bustling market and visit monks at a monastery. Day 12 Chau Doc - Phnom Penh Board a speedboat for a 5-hour journey to Phnom Penh. Check in to your hotel, then an afternoon tour of Phnom Penh. Day 13 Phnom Penh - Siem Reap Flight to Siem Reap. Spend the afternoon visiting the amazing and awe inspiring temples of Angkor. Day 14 Temples of Angkor Continue to explore the Angkor temples. Day 15 Siem Reap - Luang Prabang Fly to Luang Prabang, set amongst forested mountains and dotted with golden temples that are home to saffron robed monks. Day 16 Luang Prabang Enjoy a morning tour of the atmospheric town of Luang Prabang.
Day 7 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.
Day 17 Depart Luang Prabang Morning at leisure before your transfer to the airport to complete the itinerary.
Day 8 Hoi An - Saigon From Hoi An take a short flight to Saigon the cosmopolitan heart of Vietnam. Soak up the exotic atmosphere of
Prices Standard (4 star) from £2886 or Superior (5 star) from £3310. 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 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 Halong Bay. Take in the ancient capital of Hue, witness the spectacular scenery of the Hai Van Pass then relax in the charming fishing port of Hoi An with its sandy beaches. End your tour in bustling Saigon. International flights are not included. Departs daily.
Price includes • 11 nights accommodation • Breakfast daily, 2 lunches and 1 dinner • Private touring as shown • Flights Hanoi-Hue and Danang-Saigon • Air-conditioned vehicles • English-speaking guides
Day 1 Arrive Hanoi Your guide will meet you on arrival at the airport and take you to your accommodation. 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, then a cyclo tour of the Old Quarter. Day 3 Halong Bay Cruise Drive to Halong Bay for a two day cruise. Begin with lunch, and then explore limestone caves and secluded lagoons. Relax in the afternoon on deck, go for a swim or try some kayaking. Day 4 Hanoi to Hue Return to Hanoi for a flight to Hue. Stop en route with a traditional Vietnamese lunch in Yen Duc Village. Day 5 Hue Full day tour of historic Hue, located by the Perfume River. Includes the Imperial Citadel and a boat trip. Day 6 Hue to Hoi An Scenic drive to Hoi An via the spectacular Hai Van Pass. Day 7 Hoi An This morning take a guided walking tour of Hoi An’s ancient town. Enjoy a short boat trip to local handicraft villages. Day 8 Hoi An Full day at leisure in Hoi An. Day 9 Hoi An to Saigon Transfer to Danang
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airport then a 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. Day 10 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. Optional upgrade speedboat transfer to Cu Chi Tunnels from £36 per person. Day 11 Mekong Delta Full day tour. Visit the colourful Cai Be floating market and local cottage industries on a relaxing cruise. After lunch in an exquisite villa return to Saigon. 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, located close to the city of Siem Reap in Cambodia. Please ask for details and prices. Prices Standard (4 star) from £1699 or Superior (5 star) from £2099. Per person, based on twin share.
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THE BEST OF VIETNAM & CAMBODIA 16 Day Private Tour
Experience the highlights of Vietnam and Cambodia. In Vietnam see Hanoi and stay overnight on a traditional junk in magnificent Halong Bay. Take in the ancient capital of Hue and the beaches of historic Hoi An. Following a Saigon stay head to the Mekong Delta before a speedboat to Cambodia’s Phnom Penh and finally the impressive Angkor Wat. International flights are not included. Departs daily.
Price includes • 15 nights accommodation • Breakfast daily, 6 lunches and 1 dinner • Private touring as shown • Flights Hanoi-Hue, Danang-Saigon and Phnom Penh-Siem Reap • Air-conditioned vehicles • English-speaking guides
Day 8 Hoi An to Saigon Transfer to Danang airport then a morning flight to Saigon. Afternoon half day city tour of Saigon.
Day 1 Arrive Hanoi Your guide will meet you on arrival at the airport and take you to your accommodation.
Chi Tunnels from £36 per person.
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 of Fine Arts museum, followed by a cyclo tour of the Old Quarter.
Day 11 Mekong Delta Visit the Cai Rang floating market, then visit a local village and meet the monks. Overnight in Chau Doc. Day 12 Mekong Delta to Phnom Penh Board a speedboat for a 5-hour journey to Cambodia’s capital.
Day 4 Hanoi to Hue Return to Hanoi for a flight to Hue. Stop en route with a traditional Vietnamese lunch in Yen Duc Village.
Day 14 Phnom Penh to Siem Reap Morning flight to Siem Reap. Afternoon tour of Angkor Wat with a sunset view.
Day 5 Hue Full day tour of historic Hue, located by the Perfume River. Includes the Imperial Citadel and a boat trip.
Day 15 Angkor Wat Half day morning or afternoon tour of Angkor Wat.
Day 7 Hoi An This morning take a guided walking tour of Hoi An’s ancient town. Enjoy a short boat trip to local handicraft villages.
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Day 10 Saigon to The Mekong Delta Visit the Cai Be floating market and local cottage industries on a relaxing cruise. Lunch in an exquisite villa before continuing to Can Tho.
Day 3 Halong Bay Cruise Drive to Halong Bay for a two day cruise. Begin with lunch, and then explore limestone caves and secluded lagoons. Relax in the afternoon on deck, go for a swim or try some kayaking.
Day 6 Hue to Hoi An Scenic drive to Hoi An via the spectacular Hai Van Pass.
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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. Optional upgrade: speedboat transfer to Cu
Day 13 Phnom Penh Half day tour of the city.
Day 16 Depart Siem Reap At leisure before your transfer to the airport. Prices per person based on twin share: Standard (4-star) from £2599. Superior (5star) from £2881.
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HALONG BAY CRUISES
Halong Bay is a UNESCO World Heritage Site on Vietnam’s north east coast. Translated as Bay of the Descending Dragons, towering limestone karsts represent the dragon’s back surrounded by jade green water creating an unforgettable sight. All of the cruises include: private transfers with pick up from your Hanoi hotel (approx. 3-4 hours each way); drop off either at a Hanoi hotel or Hanoi Airport; 1 or 2 nights private cabin accommodation with en-suite facilities; all meals on board; Most activities on board (some optional activities have a fee).
APHRODITE CRUISE
Offer Fly to or from Halong Bay by seaplane for a supplement of £210 per person per way.
PARADISE LUXURY CRUISE
The boat features 17 cabins, including Luxury, Luxury Balcony, Family Suite, and Terrace Suite options. Rooms include amenities such as 100% cotton sheets, individual AC, 32-inch television, minibar, mineral water, reading lamp, hair dryer, bathrobe, slippers, luggage rack and safety equipment. Relax on the sundeck and by the bar; enjoy meals in the fine dining restaurant; relax from a day of exploration in the Jacuzzi or sauna. 2 Day 1 night cruise.
The Paradise Luxury Cruise is the first of its kind in Halong Bay. Inspired by the traditional junk boat with a rustic touch of classical designs and wooden details, the cruise sets itself apart from all the boats in the bay; creating a charming space whilst guests watch the spectacular views of the karst limestone formations and the emerald waters. 17 cabins including Deluxe, Deluxe Balcony, Paradise Suite and Terrace Suite. 2 Day 1 night cruise.
Prices from £272 per person, based on a Luxury Balcony Cabin, twin-share.
Prices from £225 per person based on a Deluxe Cabin, twin share.
VIOLET CRUISE With
PARADISE PRESTIGE CRUISE A seamless,
just six luxurious cabins, the Violet gives visitors an exclusive look at the wonders of Halong Bay. Built to resemble a traditional Asian junk, the wood-clad Violet features gleaming wooden floors, opulent silks and velvets, and cabins with floor-to-ceiling windows that frame the breathtaking views. Guests will find all the amenities they would expect in a larger vessel, including a gym and sauna, a spa with unrivalled views, a restaurant and a lounge, and a rooftop sundeck. 2 Day 1 night cruise.
convenient experience for continuous three day two night luxury cruising. A beautifully appointed wooden junk with modern amenities, a classy dining experience in intimate surrounds, and a lounge and sundeck for uninterrupted, breathtaking views of both Bai Tu Long Bay and Halong Bay. Price includes free flow drinks, a 50 minute massage per person and access to the business lounge at Hanoi Airport. 3 Day 2 night cruise.
Prices from £426 per person, based on a Junior Suite, twin share.
Prices from £606 per person, based on a Deluxe Cabin, twin share.
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MAI CHAU AND SAPA Private Tours
3 DAY MAI CHAU VALLEY TOUR Price includes • Roundtrip transfers from Hanoi hotel or airport • 2 nights Mai Chau Lodge • 2 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 2 dinners • Touring as shown • English-speaking guide • Air-conditioned vehicle Mai Chau offers a mix of culture and adventure, set against one of Vietnam’s most striking backdrops. There are waterfalls, towering limestone mountains, rice paddies, bamboo groves and rice plantations. Day 1 Hanoi to Mai Chau Travel west through lush scenery to Mai Chau. Journey time around 4 hours. Check in to your accommodation at Mai Chau Lodge; a rustic but comfortable retreat with an outdoor pool and jacuzzi. Relax at the Lodge for the afternoon or take a cycle ride in the countryside. Traditional dancing show after dinner. Day 2 Mai Chau After breakfast, head from the Lodge into the surrounding tropical countryside to visit a former cave that North Vietnamese soldiers used to store munitions during the Vietnam War. Mai Chau sits near the Vietnam-Laos border, where the North Vietnamese Army shuttled supplies and material to fellow troops stationed further south. Discover whether they left any traces behind in this cave. You will then have the option of visiting a village of the local ethnic-minority group to learn about their lifestyle and farming methods. Lunch will be served either back at Mai Chau Lodge or in the home of a local Thai family. Spend the rest of the afternoon relaxing at the Lodge’s pool. Day 3 Mai Chau to Hanoi After breakfast at the Lodge, take a gentle trek to Lac and Pom Coong, two villages of the Thai ethnic group. Meet the villagers and enjoy a chat over a cup of tea to learn about their culture and traditions. Finally, back to the Lodge before returning to Hanoi returning late afternoon. Prices from £261 per person, based on twin share.
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5 DAY SAPA VALLEY EXPLORER TOUR Price includes • Roundtrip transfers from Hanoi hotel or airport to train station • Roundtrip overnight journeys on the Victoria train Soft Sleeper Deluxe air-conditioned cabin • 2 nights Victoria Sapa Resort • 2 breakfasts, 1 lunch • Touring as shown • English-speaking guide • Air-conditioned vehicle The former French outpost of Sapa in the hills of northern Vietnam offers travellers a fascinating glimpse into the life of some of Vietnam’s ethnic minority groups, including the Red Dzao and H’mong people. Day 1 Hanoi to Hanoi train station Transfer from your Hanoi hotel to the train station. Overnight train to Sapa. 2 Berth private cabin with air-conditioning. Day 2 Arrive Sapa Met on arrival and transferred to your hotel; Victoria Sapa Resort for a 2 night stay. Day at leisure. Day 3 Sapa Valley Explorer Tour Full day tour including a 5 hour trek. This requires a good level of fitness. Walk downhill through picturesque mountain scenery. Lunch in a local home. Then walk through rice terraces and finally a walk uphill to Su Pan where the car is waiting to take you back to the hotel. Day 4 Half Day Walking Tour Visit the rustic village of Soui Ho, then alongside the river before returning to Sapa. 3-4 hours walking. Depart by train overnight to Hanoi. Day 5 Arrive Hanoi Train Station Met on arrival at the train station and transferred to your hotel or airport. Prices from £550 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. Vietnam Airlines fly direct from London Heathrow. The airport is 18 miles north of the city, which is a 45-minute drive. We can arrange for you to be met on arrival and transferred privately to your hotel. From £17 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 can 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 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
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nearby and iconic Halong Bay is a must.
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HANOI Hotels
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SOFITEL LEGEND METROPOLE HOTEL HHHHH
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. Offer Receive a 5% discount for stays of 5 nights or more. Year round. Prices from £117 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
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SILK PATH HOTEL
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APRICOT HOTEL
Boutique hotel with 106 rooms and a convenient location in Hanoi’s Old Quarter, within easy walking distance to Hanoi’s main sights such as Loan Kiem Lake, the night market and the Water Puppets Theatre. We offer Premium Deluxe rooms which are elegantly appointed with a graceful design and a generous view of the city from the 2 windows, giving a bright and unobstructed view of the bustling street. Facilities include a choice of restaurants and bars, a fitness centre and jacuzzi.
Situated at an historic location on Hang Trong Street, with sweeping views of the legendary Hoan Kiem Lake. The Apricot Hotel is shrouded in neoclassical design with artistic Vietnamese touches. Apricot’s 123 elegant rooms exude luxury in an inviting and intimate atmosphere. Enjoy First Class Tea selection in the charming A’telier lobby, or relax overlooking the city at the signature One 36 rooftop bar. Choice of restaurants, spa, fitness centre, sauna and superb rooftop swimming pool.
Offer Receive a 10% discount for stays of 5 nights or more. Year round.
Offer 10% discount when staying 5 nights or more, year round.
Prices from £34 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
Prices from £76 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
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CENTRAL & SOUTHERN VIETNAM Hoi An is an exceptionally wellpreserved example of a SouthEast Asian trading port dating from the 15th - 19th century. Nearby Danang is the main hub with the airport as the gateway to the region and includes the golden sands of China Beach. The beautiful city of Hue is rich in history, culture and temples. Further south explore the beaches of Nha Trang and Phan Thiet. Travel Danang is the nearest airport for both the beach resorts of Danang and the historic port of Hoi An (a 45-minute drive from the airport). Hue Airport is just a 35-minute, 20-kilometre drive to the centre of the city. Nha Trang is served by Cam Ranh Airport, located a 45-minute drive to the south of the city. The beach resorts of Phan Thiet and nearby Mui Ne are accessed by car with a journey time of around 4 hours. Inspired
by Asia can pre-book private car transfers for all of these destinations. When to go The best time to visit the following destinations; Danang, Hoi An & Hue: February-July. Nha Trang: January-September. Phan Thiet: November-April.
Hoi An is an exceptionally well-preserved example of a South-East Asian trading port dating from the 15th - 19th century. Nearby Danang is the main hub with the airport as the gateway to the region and includes the golden sands of China Beach. The beautiful city of Hue is rich in history, culture and temples. Spend time exploring the Citadel, before a sunset cruise on the Perfume River. Further south, explore the beaches of Nha Trang and Phan Thiet.
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HOI AN Hotels
FOUR SEASONS NAM HAI HHHHH
The Four Seasons 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 one-bedroom 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. Offer Receive 3 nights for the price of 2 in low season. Call for details. Prices from £341 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
VICTORIA HOI AN BEACH RESORT & SPA HHHHH
The Victoria Hoi An Beach Resort enjoys a wonderful seafront 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 in low season. Call for details. Prices from £60 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
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HOI AN and HUE Hotels
HHHH
HHHHH
BOUTIQUE HOI AN RESORT
ANANTARA RESORT HOI AN
Colonial style hotel set on the coast, just a short drive to the centre of Hoi An. Relax by the large pool surrounded by tropical gardens. Superior rooms are located in the main hotel building facing the sea and overlooking the pool and garden area. All rooms having an indoor area of 31 sqm and an outdoor balcony. The villas are located directly on the beach facing the sea with large terraces. Facilities include a pool, spa, fitness centre, restaurant and choice of bars.
The Anantara Resort Hoi An 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.
Offer Receive up to 10% off for stays of 10 nights or more. Year round.
Offer Receive a 10% discount for stays of 5 nights or more. Year round.
Prices from £63 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
Prices from £92 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
HHHHH
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LA RESIDENCE HOTEL & SPA HUE
PILGRIMAGE VILLAGE RESORT & SPA, HUE
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, a bar and a restaurant.
Pilgrimage Village Boutique Resort & Spa is ideally located in the quiet countryside in a rustic village setting surrounding by lush tranquil gardens, yet near to famous historical landmarks and the city of Hue. Accommodation is in 139 rooms & villas. Enjoy swimming in the 50m Slope pool or more intimate Peanut pool, relax on the comfortable loungers, playing pool, taking a private tour around town, indulge in a spa treatment or simply enjoy the local food at one of the restaurants.
Offer Receive 3 nights for the price of 2 in low season. Call for details.
Offer Receive a 10% discount when staying 5 nights or more. Year round.
Prices from £90 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
Prices from £51 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
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DANANG Hotels
INTERCONTINENTAL DANANG SUN PENINSULA RESORT HHHHH
Just 30 minutes from Danang Airport and 13km from downtown Danang, this resort is nestled in a secluded private bay on the Son Tra Peninsula. Relax on the 700-metre private sandy beach or by the large swimming pool and enjoy superb ocean views. Resort Classic rooms are a spacious 70 sq metres in size. Facilities include a swimming pool, spa, fitness centre, sun terrace, choice of bars and restaurants and wide range of activities. Shuttle bus to Danang for a wider range of dining options. Offer Receive a 10% discount when staying 7 nights or more, year round. Prices from ÂŁ265 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
NAMAN RETREAT HHHHH
A sleek, modernist retreat beside the white sands of Danang Beach. Open the door to your luxury villa, where minimalist styling showcases the natural beauty of your surroundings. Spend the day by your private plunge pool, or on a lounger beside the central infinity pool. Seek complete tranquillity with a session of yoga or tai chi, followed by a soothing massage or steam bath at Pure Spa. The Hay Hay Restaurant serves local specialities, while the B Lounge promises tapas, cocktails and live music. Offer Receive up to 10% off when staying 7 nights or more. Year round. Prices from ÂŁ120 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
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NHA TRANG Hotels
AN LAM RETREATS NINH VAN BAY HHHHH
An Lam Retreats Ninh Van Bay is located in Ninh Van Bay; an exclusive area of Nha Trang with clear water and a golden sand beach. Around 20 kms north of Nha Trang city. Contemporary chic meets comfortable elegance in interiors designs blended with Vietnamese touches. Each villa makes your own private hideaway. The 34 luxurious and spacious timber villas feature a verandah, plunge pool and personal butler. This resort is exclusive only for adults, couples and honeymooners most of the year. Offer Receive a 10% discount when staying 7 nights or more. Year round. Prices from ÂŁ204 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
SIX SENSES NINH VAN BAY HHHHH
Six Senses Ninh Van Bay sits on a dramatic bay that gives the feeling of an island, with impressive rock formations overlooking the East Vietnam Sea. White sand beach and towering mountains add to the sense of being intimately at one with nature. The Hill Top Pool Villas feature plunge pools and face the mountain ranges and majestic sea views. The Beachfront Pool Villas offer generous personal space with their own garden, an exclusive plunge pool and direct access to the beach. Offer Receive a 10% discount when staying 7 nights or more. Year round. Prices from ÂŁ330 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
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PHAN THIET Hotels
VICTORIA PHAN THIET BEACH RESORT & SPA HHHH
The Victoria Phan Thiet Beach Resort & Spa is situated 220 km northeast of Ho Chi Minh City. With its 450m sandy beach, 7 hectares of gardens and 2 swimming pools, the resort is ideally suited for couples and families. The Victoria offers 57 thatched roof bungalows; each bungalow combines traditional Vietnamese handicraft and the comfort of an international-standard luxury resort. Facilities include a large infinity swimming pool, restaurant, choice of bars, spa, tennis, watersports and fitness centre. Offer Receive up to 10% off when booking in advance. Year round. Prices from £58 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
PRINCESS D’AN NAM RESORT & SPA HHHHH
A 150-km drive from Saigon set on the secluded and pristine Ke Ga Bay, facing a century-old French lighthouse, the Princess D’An Nam Resort & Spa is the first all-villa luxury boutique resort in Vietnam. With its 48 exclusive villas, four swimming pools, two restaurants, and a sumptuous 1,800–square-metre spa complex, Princess D’An Nam Resort & Spa is an idyllic haven of calm and luxury. Choose from 36 Mandarin Suites, 18 Princess Villas, and three double-storey Empress Villas. Offer Receive a 10% discount for stays of 10 nights or more. Year round. Prices from £96 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. Vietnam Airlines offer direct flights from London Heathrow. The airport is a 25-30 minute drive. We can arrange for you to be met on arrival and transferred privately to your hotel. From £12 per person.
much a landmark in Saigon. A cyclo 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
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 Asia’s other cities in terms of development, yet it still retails a French colonial flavour and a timeless quality. Alongside its colonial buildings and bustling street markets you’ll find sleek new bars, pavement cafés and some of the most delicious food in Asia with a good choice of restaurants.
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SAIGON Hotels
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THE REVERIE SAIGON
CARAVELLE SAIGON
The Reverie Saigon has debuted as the most spectacularly extravagant hotel in Vietnam and as the one and only member property of The Leading Hotels of the World in Ho Chi Minh City.Taking pride of place on the topmost floors of the landmark Times Square Building, this muchlauded hotel presents world-class hospitality with its impeccable service and its unique celebration of Italian design and luxury. Facilities include a swimming pool, Jacuzzi, spa and choice of bars and restaurants.
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 10% discount for stays of 5 nights or more. Year round.
Offer Receive a 10% discount for stays of 5 nights or more. Year round.
Prices from £170 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
Prices from £86 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
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RENAISSANCE RIVERSIDE HOTEL SAIGON
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EDENSTAR SAIGON 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, cafe and a restaurant.
The Edenstar Saigon is centrally located in District 1, within easy walking distance to the sights of the city and the impressive Ben Thanh Market. Facilities include an outdoor rooftop swimming pool with great views of the city, a massage area, a fitness centre, jacuzzi, steam room, sauna and spa. The hotel’s restaurant offers Vietnamese and International cuisines with all day dining. The pool bar offers light meals and snacks and a choice of beverages.
Offer Receive a 10% discount for stays of 5 nights or more. Year round.
Offer Receive a 10% discount for stays of 5 nights or more. Year round.
Prices from £60 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
Prices from £42 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
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MEKONG DELTA HOTELS AND CRUISE
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VICTORIA CAN THO RESORT 2 DAY MEKONG DELTA CRUISE
The Victoria Can Tho Resort is a luxury hotel in the Mekong Delta. Located close to Can Tho town, but a quiet retreat from the bustle of the city, the resort sits on the banks of the river, set amidst exotic gardens. The Lady Hau, a remodelled rice barge, is available for sunset and dinner cruises. The colonial-style rooms are comfortable and spacious and feature traditional furnishings. Facilities include a pool, a spa, fitness centre, tennis, bicycle hire, free bus/boat to town, bar and restaurant.
Price includes • 1 night aboard the Bassac Cruise • Roundtrip transfers from Saigon • 1 breakfast, 1 lunch, 1 dinner
Offer Receive a 10% discount for a 3 night stay. Year round.
Day 1 Saigon - Can Tho - Bassac Cruise
Prices from £58 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
Depart from the hotel in Ho Chi Minh City at 8.30am and transfer to Can Tho by road. Upon arrival, board the Bassac, a deluxe wooden rice barge, which has been restored. Enjoy lunch on the sundeck as the boat heads toward Cho Lach on the Tien Giang River. Relax and watch a landscape of rice fields, sugar cane, forests and rural life. Stop off at Cho Lach canal for a quick look at the sand and rice barges and local shipyards. Visit the Co Chien or Mang Thit villages and meet some of the local people and enjoy their hospitality. Dinner is served while the Bassac cruises the Mang Thit River. Overnight on the boat. Private cabin accommodation with en suite and air-conditioning. Day 2 Mang Thit - Cai Be - Saigon
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VICTORIA CHAU DOC HOTEL Built in colonial style with low-rise French architectural design, the Victoria Chau Doc Hotel blends perfectly with its natural surroundings. The hotel is located right on the banks of the Bassac River and offers front seat views of the river habitat with its famous floating fish farming villages, floating markets and Cham villages. Deep in the Mekong Delta, Chau Doc town is 174 miles south-west of Ho Chi Minh City close to the Cambodian border.
Rise to the bustling sounds of Mekong River in the morning. At 6.30am the boat departs for Cai Be. Enjoy breakfast while cruising the canals and observing the morning boat traffic. The Bassac crosses Co Chien River and into Cho Lach canal, passing sand and rice barges. On the banks are fruit drying facilities and wooden ship building yards. Arrive in Cai Be and board a local boat to tour the Cai Be floating market and handicraft villages. Afterwards, you are transferred to your hotel in Saigon.
Prices from £288 per person based on twin share.
Offer Receive a 10% discount for a 3 night stay. Year round. Prices from £50 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
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MEKONG RIVER CRUISE 12 Day Tour
Travelling the Mekong between My Tho and Siem Reap, Cambodia, the Jayavarman marries the art deco charm of 1930’s France with the romance of Indochina. With three-and-ahalf decks, the Jayavarman is as spacious as it is beautiful. Guests can admire Khmer artifacts, mingle in the Club 1930 Bar, dine in the elegant Indochina Dining Hall, and recharge with spa treatments. A Jacuzzi is located on the top Sun Deck, which offers spectacular views of the passing delta. Accommodation is in 37 elegant cabins. International flights are not included.
Price includes • 2 nights Victoria Angkor Resort, Siem Reap B&B • Tour of Angkor Wat • 7 nights aboard Jayavarman Cruise in a Superior cabin • All meals aboard • 2 nights Caravelle Hotel, Saigon with B&B • Tour of the Cu Chi Tunnels Day 1 Arrive Siem Reap Met on arrival and privately transferred to the Victoria Angkor Resort for a 2 night stay. Accommodation is in a Deluxe room with breakfast daily. Rest of the day at leisure. Day 2 Angkor Wat This is a one day private classic tour of Angkor Wat and other important temples and ruins surrounding Siem Reap. The day begins at the South Gate of Angkor Thom, where you will begin your exploration of the centrepiece of this ancient city, the Bayon. The Bayon holds 54 towers decorated with more than 200 enigmatically smiling stone faces. The morning tour also visits the Royal Enclosure, Phimeanakas, the Terrace of Elephants and Terrace of Leper Kings, as well as Ta Prohm Temple, famously featured in the movie, Tomb Raider. Afterwards, enjoy a relaxed lunch in Siem Reap before heading to the famous Angkor Wat - the best preserved of all the Angkor temples. There is ample time for a thorough exploration of this huge architectural wonder before climbing to the top of ancient Pre-Rup temple to watch the sunset over the jungle. Days 3-9 Aboard the Jayavarman or ‘The Lost Civilization’ Cruise. Note: the water level varies a great deal according to the time of year and the amount of rainfall recorded.
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Thus, the itinerary varies dependent on the season. Generally, the High Water Programme is approximately September to December. The Low Water Programme is approximately January to August. Please ask for the full itinerary. Enjoy this 7-night cruise through the Mekong where legend has it that the God King of ancient Cambodia, King Jayavarman VII linked hands with the waters of the Mekong to build the magnificent Angkor civilization. Located on the main deck, the 14 Superior Staterooms (4 twin, 10 double) come with in-room bathrooms. Superior cabin features large floor to ceiling panoramic glass doors which open to the balcony. Measuring a total space of 21sqm (incl. balcony), the superiors are appointed with wooden, white furniture supported by decent Asian ornaments and fine-art paintings on the walls and ceilings. Amenities: Air conditioner, balcony with 2 chairs and table, mini bar, sun hat, binocular, hand fan, sandals, in-room safe, hair dryer, bath robe, in-house phone, desk, chairs, luggage rack. Day 10 My Tho - Saigon Disembark at My Tho, then a private transfer to Saigon, visiting the famous Cu Chi Tunnels on the way. Check in and stay 2 nights at The Caravelle Hotel in a Deluxe room with breakfast. Day 11 Saigon Full day at leisure in Saigon. We can arrange a half or full day private tour of the city. Prices on request. Day 12 Depart Saigon Depart for the airport for your onward journey.
Prices from £2075 per person, based on twin share.
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PHU QUOC ISLAND
A short, one-hour flight to Phu Quoc island is all it takes for a perfect island beach break. The palm-fringed, white sand beaches and warm waters are the perfect setting for your stay. This charming island is home to local villages whose way of life has remained unchanged over the span of generations.
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Travel Phu Quoc airport is located 190 miles south of Saigon (one hour flight). The island is also served by flights from Hanoi, Can Tho and Rach Gia. When to go Phu Quoc has a subequatorial climate and is at its best
during the November to March period, with sunny skies and pleasant temperatures around 25-28°C and relatively low humidity. July to September sees the full effect of the monsoon season with wet weather.
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PHU QUOC ISLAND Hotels
JW MARRIOTT PHU QUOC EMERALD BAY RESORT & SPA HHHHH
Set on the pristine beaches of Phu Quoc, all of the 244 rooms and suites are extraordinary in their individuality; most feature breathtaking views of the bay. Sumptuous villas include perks like balconies and private pools. Dine in style during your resort stay; the restaurants and bars serve fresh local produce and artfully crafted cocktails. Facilities include a choice of swimming pools, choice of bars and restaurants, spa, fitness centre, kids club and wide range of activities including watersports. Offer Receive a 10% discount when staying 10 nights or more. Year round. Prices from ÂŁ213 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
LA VERANDA RESORT HHHHH
Located on Phu Quoc Island, La Veranda Resort, a 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. Offer Receive a 10% discount when staying 10 nights or more. Year round. Prices from ÂŁ99 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
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BEST OF VIETNAM AND CAMBODIA Day Tours HOI AN
HOI AN
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Hoi An Walking Tour
Cooking Class
Cycling Hoi An countryside
Hoi An’s relaxed vibe and pedestrianised streets make the town a pleasure to walk around and discover new things. Your personal guide will take you to several famous landmarks of this former trading port. See and experience the restored architecture, homemade silk, expert tailors and seafood. Tour departs daily: morning or afternoon. Private half day tour. Price from £35 per person.
Begin with a short boat ride to a nearby market and chance to sample dishes from 10 different food counters with a local guide. Get a quick demonstration before trying your hand at creating the same dishes. Finish with a sit-down meal to enjoy your dish. Go home with a copy of the recipes and a Vietnamese utensil as a keepsake. Class on a shared basis. Departs daily. Small group half day tour. Price from £48 per person.
Cycle for 15 minutes out of Hoi An before boarding a small boat for a 35 minute cruise along the waterways of Quang Nam Province. Jump back on the bike and cycle through paddy fields and villages. Stop en route to visit traditional handicraft craftsmen. Cycle back to Hoi An in the early afternoon. Departs daily. Private half day tour. Price from £39 per person.
SAIGON
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The Cu Chi Tunnels
The Story of Saigon
Saigon Street Eats
The Cu Chi Tunnels, which highlight the dedication and ingenuity of Viet Cong soldiers during the Vietnam War, are a must-see destination in Southern Vietnam. On your Cu Chi Tunnels guided tour you’ll spend the morning wandering this vast underground complex that was once buzzing with thousands of soldiers. Includes an air-conditioned van each way from Saigon. But for an extra £36 pp travel there by (shared) speedboat, returning by road. Departs daily. Private half day tour. Price from £38 per person.
Discover the story of Saigon, from a city of conflict to a modern metropolis on this fascinating half-day tour. You’ll visit key locations such as the Central Post Office, Notre Dame Cathedral and the War Remnants Museum, to learn about the city’s transition from war-torn Saigon to urban Ho Chi Minh City, and end your day with a sunset speedboat ride along the Saigon River. Departs daily. Private half day tour. Price from £70 per person.
This local street eats walking tour has been designed to enable you to enjoy some of the very best of Vietnam’s street food in the centre of Ho Chi Minh city. Experiencing the racing pulse of Saigon on this guided foodie tour, sampling local delicacies at small pop-up restaurants. End your night on a sweet note with a visit to Saigon’s most famous sweet soup shop. Departs daily at 6pm. Half day private tour. Price from £39 per person.
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BEST OF VIETNAM AND CAMBODIA Day Tours SAIGON
HANOI
Mekong Delta Experience the beauty of the Mekong Delta waterways with a cruise around the township of Cai Be. Observe the river life as it plays out on the banks noting the people and the stunning landscapes. Board a rowing boat to explore the hidden mangroves and explore a 19th century house. Your cruise ends with lunch at an exquisite colonial-style villa set in a lush garden by the river. Departs daily. Full day tour. Price from £108 per person.
SIEM REAP
Angkor Wat Temples The day begins at the South Gate of Angkor Thom, where you will begin your exploration of the centrepiece of this ancient city, the Bayon and also visits the Royal Enclosure, Phimeanakas, the Terrace of Elephants and Terrace of Leper Kings, as well as Ta Prohm Temple, famously featured in the movie, Tomb Raider. Lunch in Siem Reap, then Pre Rup temple to watch the sunset over the jungle. Departs daily. Full day private tour. Price from £90 per person.
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HANOI
Halong Bay Cruise & Seaplane
Hanoi City Tour
After your seaplane flight (shared), transfer to your traditional junk boat and set sail to Dao Tung Lam Bay for a delicious lunch. Feast on a range of Vietnamese dishes and sail past some of the bay’s most iconic locations, including Thumb Island, Incense Island and Ba Hang floating village. Then, explore the majestic Heaven Cave. Enjoy a cocktail or two before your transfer back to Hanoi by road, arriving in the evening. Departs daily. Full day tour. Price from £450 per person.
A tour of the city, packed with culture, history and all the iconic landmarks. See Uncle Ho’s resting place, the Presidential Palace and the One Pillar Pagoda - all must see landmarks. Then soak up the culture and history at the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long, an 11th century archaeological site, the famous Temple of Literature and take a cyclo ride through the Old Quarter, ending your day with a water puppet show. Departs daily each morning. Full day private tour. Price from £75 per person.
PHNOM PENH
Phnom Penh City Tour Spend the morning exploring Cambodia’s capital and its major landmarks including the fascinating Royal Palace, the Silver Pagoda, and the National Museum. In the afternoon, visit the sobering and poignant Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum for a startling glimpse into the country’s tragic history. The tour then ends on a lighter note at the colourful Central Market. Departs daily. Half day private tour. Price from £69 per person.
HUE
Hue City Tour Uncover the history of the imperial city of Hue on a full-day tour. Nestled against the banks of the Perfume River, Hue has an interesting story to tell. Wander the Emperor’s tombs seeing Emperor Minh Mang’s Mausoleum and the Nguyen Dynasty Emperor’s tombs and the fighting arena between elephants and tigers. Reminisce to days gone by as traditional Vietnamese music is played as you cruise down the Perfume River to complete the tour. Departs daily. Full day private tour. Price from £65 per person.
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ANGKOR WAT and PHNOM PENH
Angkor Wat is world famous for its beauty and splendour. In 1992 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 where the majority of the hotels are located. The capital of Cambodia, Phnom Penh is located on the banks of the Tonle Sap and Mekong River. A city with French-influenced architecture, history and wonderful river views.
Travel Both Siem Reap and Phnom Penh Airports are served with regular flights from most parts of Asia.
Attractions There is so much to see at Angkor Wat. Most visitors have a day or two here. Highly recommended is a sunrise visit to the site and enjoy a sunset view from one of the temples. In Phnom Penh a visit to the Silver Pagoda is recommended. The dark side of the country’s history is experienced at the genocide museum. Experience the Mekong River with a pre-arranged boat trip.
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 of Angkor Wat.
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ANGKOR WAT and PHNOM PENH Hotels
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PARK HYATT SIEM REAP
VICTORIA ANGKOR RESORT & SPA
Park Hyatt Siem Reap is located at the city’s most prestigious address within walking distance to a high quality selection of bars, restaurants and boutique shops. It comprises 104 rooms in an elegant, contemporary and residential facade. Its suites are the finest in the city with distinctive attributes such as a private garden and/or swimming pool, separate living area, extensive bedroom and equally spacious bathrooms. Facilities include a choice of restaurants, two swimming pools and a fitness centre.
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 a 10% discount when staying 5 nights or more. Year round.
Offer Receive a 10% discount for stays of 4 nights or more. Year round.
Prices from £96 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
Prices from £70 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
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SHINTA MANI SHACK
WHITE MANSION BOUTIQUE HOTEL PHNOM PENH
The Shinta Mani Shack is a boutique resort centrally located in the leafy French Quarter between The Royal Gardens and the Old Market Area just a 15-minute drive from the legendary Angkor Wat. The courtyardstyle resort’s 62 rooms enjoy a surprisingly different “Bensley twist” with direct access or first floor balcony views over the stunning swimming pool and flourishing tropical gardens. Four additional suites have views over the leafy streetscape. Five restaurants and bars.
This delightful hotel enjoys a central location within walking distance of some of the attractions of Phnom Penh. Hotel facilities include a fullservice spa, restaurant, a 25m outdoor pool, café and rooftop terrace. The White Mansion’s 30 rooms and suites are among the nicest and the largest in Phnom Penh. They offer a secluded atmosphere with comfort and elegance. Several with balcony, terrace, cityview or poolview. After a busy day in tropical Phnom Penh guests will enjoy the refreshing pool.
Offer Receive a 10% discount for stays of 5 nights or more.
Offer Receive a 10% discount when staying 4 nights or more. Year round.
Prices from £72 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
Prices from £51 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
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BURMA A journey into Burma (Myanmar) is a journey into the Asia of days gone by. Visitors to Burma find that their ventures off the well-trodden tourist trail are rewarded with a wonderful, often touching travel experience rich in old-world atmosphere, natural beauty, culture and memorable encounters with its engaging people.
Getting there There are no direct flights from the UK to Burma. However there are several good choices for connecting flights. Thai Airways offer flights to Yangon via Bangkok, with Malaysia Airlines via Kuala Lumpur and Singapore Airlines via Singapore. Guide to the country Burma is a country of great beauty and diversity, dominated by lush mountain slopes covered with alpine forests in the far north and steamy jungles in the south; broad flat plains in central regions like Bagan; the famous Irrawaddy River and over 1199 miles of coastline boasting some of Asia’s most stunning beaches. Your travels in the country will take in some of the gorgeous river and mountain scenery in the country, the extraordinary temple studded plains of Bagan, the tranquil villages around lovely Inle Lake as well as the famous cities of Mandalay and Yangon. While these are the country’s biggest cities, they are relaxed, at times sleepy - a far cry from the huge size and frenetic pace of many other cities in Asia. When to go Most of Burma lies within the Tropic Zone. It has a monsoon climate with three main seasons. The hottest period is between February
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and May, with little or no rain and temperatures between 30°C and 35°C. The rainy season exists from May to October when the country receives most of its yearly rainfall and temperatures ranging from 25°C to 30°C. You can expect dry, cooler weather from October to February with temperatures at 20°C – 25°C but as cold as 5°C in higher altitudes or at Inle Lake. Important to note British passport holders require a visa to visit Burma and a visa must be obtained before you depart the UK. It can be arranged up to 3 months before your scheduled arrival date into Burma. A full passport is required, valid for at least 6 months beyond the date of your departure from Burma. Once issued, the visa is valid for 3 months with a maximum stay in the country of 28 days. Assistance with obtaining a visa can be given by The Travel Visa Company. www.thetravelvisacompany.co.uk tel: 01270 250590. We strongly recommend you consult your doctor for the most up-to-date health advice at least one month prior to travel. The official language of Burma is Burmese. Basic English is widely spoken in urban areas and around popular tourist sites such as Bagan. English is wellunderstood and widely spoken by guides and hotel staff. The official currency is Kyat (MMK). US Dollars are widely accepted and you are advised to take US Dollars with you.
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THE BEST OF BURMA 10 Day Private Tour
Discover exotic Burma - cut off from Western influence for so long - on this journey through its highlights; a land spiked with temples, cities built on
Price includes • 8 nights 4-star accommodation • 1 night river cruise • Breakfast daily, 1 lunch and 1 dinner • English-speaking guide • Air-conditioned vehicles • Flights within Burma
river edges and whole towns floating on a lake. Meet the friendly people of this charming land at markets, villages and monasteries. Accommodation is in mainly 4 star hotels. This tour is on a private basis so there are no set departure dates. International flight prices are not included in this itinerary.
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Day 1 Arrive Yangon Arrive in Yangon where you will be met by the guide at the airport and transferred to the Sedona Hotel Yangon for a 2 night stay. Superior room. Rest of the day at leisure. Day 2 Yangon City Tour Although Yangon is no longer the official capital of the country it is still one of the most dynamic and busiest cities in the country. Today explore the many cultural and historical highlights that can be found in between the hustle and bustle of city life. Drive to downtown for a photo stop around the Town Hall and old streets lined with colonial buildings. See the colossal reclining Buddha of Chauk Htat Gyi Pagoda and take a stroll in the park at Kandawgyi Lake. Then visit Botataung Pagoda and jetty. In the afternoon, grab a bargain at Scott Market (closed on Mondays and public holidays). In the evening take in the spectacular view of Shwedagon Pagoda all lit up. This is the most important Buddhist site in the country and is said to hold strands of Buddha’s hair and other relics. The spire reaches up to 110m and is encrusted with diamonds and covered by gold plate.
Day 3 Yangon - Mandalay This morning, transfer to the airport for your flight to Mandalay. Be met on arrival and transferred to the Sedona Hotel Mandalay for a 1 night stay. Deluxe room. Mandalay is the last of the royal cities and is encompassed by smaller capital cities dotted around its edges. The centre piece of the city is the reconstructed palace which is surrounded by a large moat. Visit Mahamuni Pagoda with its statues created in Buddha’s true likeness. See the largest book in the world at Kuthodaw Pagoda, where stories are etched upon 79 stone tablets and visit Shwenandaw monastery. Afternoon free. Day 4 RV Paukan Cruise Transfer to the jetty. The embarkation time is 1000 hrs at Sagaing jetty and cast off after half an hour. Welcome Cocktail and briefing in the Saloon or Sundeck followed by lunch. Your cabin is on the Main Deck. Cruise all day long. In the late afternoon stop at Yandabo, a village specialising in Pot-Making. Visit the Pot workshops, the monastery and the school. Moor overnight near the village of Shwe Nann Tint. Day 5 RV Paukan Cruise Early in the morning continue downstream to Bagan. After breakfast (if time permits) visit another typical river village. Enjoy the sunrise near Bagan. Passengers will disembark at Bagan Aye Yar jetty by 0930 hrs. Disembark from the cruise for sightseeing in Bagan, where the landscape is a sea of stupas and temples. This ancient city and important archaeological site once
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held more that 10,000 Buddhist temples, pagodas and monasteries. Only 2,200 temples remain. This afternoon explore some of these temples and watch the sunset from atop Shwesandaw Pagoda. Stay 2 nights at the Tharabar Gate Hotel in a Deluxe Room. Day 6 Bagan Morning visit to Manuha Temple, a small square shaped building that is steeped in legend and later to Myinkaba village. See its ancient temple adorned with paintings and then pop into a local craft shop where lacquer ware is expertly made by hand. Stroll through the villages to see how the local community lives. Stop at toddy palm plantations and huts to see how palm wine is collected. Watch the sunset over Bagan. Day 7 Bagan - Inle Lake Your guide will
meet you at your hotel and transfer you to the airport for your flight to Heho. On arrival you’ll be transferred to Inle Lake. Take a boat ride across the lake and admire the unique one-legged rowing style as you pass by floating gardens filled with fruits and vegetables. Visit the Phaung Daw Oo Pagoda, famed for its five small gold-gilded Buddha images. See traditional handicrafts villages and Nga Pe Kyaung Monastery better known as the Jumping Cat Monastery. Although the performing cats no longer remain, the monastery houses an impressive collection of Buddha images. Check in and stay 2 nights at Inle Resort in a Garden Cottage.
images made from the powder of dried flowers and watch as workers hand roll Burmese cigars! In the afternoon, cruise to Indein nestled on the banks of the lake. The village is famous for its overgrown and mystifying 16th century stupas as well its handicrafts.
Day 8 Inle Lake - Indein Morning visit to one of the local markets then see craftsman at work building wooden boats, creating Buddha
Price from £1599 per person, twin share. • Upgrade to Superior (mainly 5 star) hotels for a supplement of £250 per person.
Day 9 Inle Lake - Yangon This morning, transfer to Heho airport for the flight to Yangon. Be met on arrival and privately transferred to The Sedona Hotel Yangon for a 1 night stay in a Superior room. Day 10 Yangon departure Transfer to the airport for your flight departure.
4 DAY BEACH EXTENSION Add a 3 night stay at the beautiful beaches of Ngapali. This makes an ideal end to your tour of Burma. The nearest airport is Thandwe and we can arrange flights from Heho (Inle Lake) or from Yangon. Price includes • Roundtrip flights from Yangon • 3 nights Sandoway Resort • Private airport transfers Prices from £579 per person, based on twin share.
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BURMA RIVER CRUISES
HIGHLIGHTS OF MYANMAR 3 NIGHT CRUISE Experience the enchanting sights, scents and sounds of the Irrawaddy or Chindwin Rivers aboard the Belmond Road to Mandalay (43 cabins) or the Belmond Orcaella (25 cabins). Cruise itineraries vary from 2 to 12 nights. Cabin accommodation is spacious, featuring air-conditioning and large windows that offer stunning river views. On board you’ll enjoy a top deck pool and bar and a gourmet restaurant. All meals are included during the cruise with soft drinks, local beer and free flow of house wine during meals.
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Day 1 Mandalay Transfer to Belmond Road to Mandalay berthed on the Ayeyarwady River at Shwe Kyet Yet village. Following a welcome meeting, the ship will set sail for Mandalay. After lunch on board, transfer to shore by local boat for a guided tour of the key sights of this fabled city, regarded as the centre of Burmese culture and Buddhist learning. Return to Belmond Road to Mandalay for dinner and local entertainment in the evening. Day 2 Burmese Village & Ava Join an early morning walking tour of Shwe Kyet Yet village which will include alms-giving to the monks by the ship’s crew. Enjoy breakfast while the ship sails down to the ancient capital of Ava. Disembark for a tour by traditional horse and cart including a visit to an ancient teak monastic school and the ruins of King Bagyidaw’s palace. The rest of the day is spent relaxing on board observing the local river life from the top deck. Afternoon tea is served and an on-board guide lectures on local places and customs. A casual cocktail party is followed by dinner on board. Day 3 Bagan The river cruiser arrives at Bagan where over 2,000 temples and pagodas are scattered on an awe-inspiring plain beside the river. A guided orientation tour introduces you to the most important temples. After lunch you
have the opportunity to rejoin the guide and visit the inside of some of the more significant pagodas. Alternatively, you can hire a bicycle or horse-drawn cart (with driver) and explore this fascinating area on your own. Late afternoon your guide takes you to watch the breathtaking vista of the sun setting over the plain. Dinner and local entertainment on board. Day 4 Bagan After an early breakfast you are transferred to Bagan airport for your onward flight. Prices from £1270 per person, based on twin share.
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THE AYEYARWADY EXPERIENCE 7 NIGHT CRUISE Day 1 Bagan Morning board Belmond Orcaella at Bagan and enjoy a delicious lunch. Later, disembark for a guided tour of the ancient city and witness the unforgettable sunset over the Bagan plain.
town, and there is still much activity in and around the docks. Next, enjoy a city tour, visit the impressive Shwe-san-daw Pagoda and the imposing 10-storey Sitting Buddha watching over this important site.
Day 2 Bagan and Salay Start the day with a shopping tour in Bagan and a visit to the gilded Shwezigon Pagoda. You may also wish to arrange a tour of Old Bagan by horse cart or bicycle. In the afternoon, set sail towards Salay where you can visit the Wooden Monastery and an impressive 20ft Buddha made of straw lacquer.
Day 5 Shwe Taung Set out by bus on a morning excursion to Shwe Taung town and visit Shwe Myat Mhan Pagoda to see the only ‘bespectacled’ Buddha in Myanmar (thought to have curing powers). On the way back, discover local industry with a visit to a local sweets confectioner and a bamboo shoot pickle maker. Return to Belmond Orcaella and depart from Pyay. Spend the afternoon relaxing on board and taking in the scenery.
Day 3 Magwe and Min Hla Visit the port town of Magwe and its famous Myathalon Pagoda, devotees come from miles around to join in religious festivals. Continue to Min Hla for a late afternoon visit to the local fort, the site of a great battle during the second AngloBurmese War. Day 4 Sri Ksetra Enjoy a Longyi tying and Thanakha wearing demonstration on the Observation Deck. Afternoon visit by bus to the ancient city Sri Ksetra (‘Fabulous City’) with its unique cylindrical shaped stone stupas. Dating back to the 5th - 9th century, this city flourished during the rule of the Phyu. During the 1890’s Pyay was a booming trade
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Day 6 Zalon and Danuphyu Disembark at the small port of Zalon. Take a tuk tuk along the main street, lined with stunning colonial-style wooden houses and large tropical gardens. Arrive at the Pyi Taw Pyan Pagoda. Continue to another little-visited town called Danuphyu. This is where the revered General Maha Bandula led a Burmese defensive against the British troops during the Anglo-Burmese War.
Day 8 Disembark Disembark in the late morning for your onward travel arrangements.
Day 7 Yangon Spend the morning relaxing on the deck as you make your way to Yangon. Join an optional excursion; choose between shopping in Yangon or a heritage tour.
Other cruise itineraries We can also offer the 12 night Mandalay-Chindwin-Bagan cruise and vv. And the 11 night Mandalay-BhamoBagan cruise and vv.
Prices from £2919 per person based on twin share. Note This cruise is available as an 8 night cruise from Yangon to Bagan.
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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.
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BEST OF CHINA 10 Day Private Tour
The contrasts in China are both striking and enthralling. Start your journey in the bustling metropolis of Shanghai. Fly to Xian and experience the Terracotta Warriors. Take the high speed train to Beijing, home to ancient traditions and modern attractions. Wander the vast Tiananmen Square and walk the ancient Great Wall. Accommodation is in 4 star hotels with breakfast included. This is a private tour so there are no set departure dates. International flights are not included.
Price includes • 9 nights accommodation • Breakfast daily • 6 lunches • Touring as shown • Flight Shanghai - Xian • Xian - Beijing high speed train • English speaking guide Day 1 Arrive Shanghai Upon arrival in Shanghai you will be met and transferred to your hotel. Accommodation: The Riverview Hotel for 3 nights Day 2 Shanghai Stroll through the old town area and Yuyuan Garden, visit the Shanghai Museum and enjoy an evening river cruise. Day 3 Shanghai Visit Suzhou, the home of Chinese gardens. In the afternoon take a trip to the 900 year old water village of Zhouzhuang. Day 4 Xian Transfer to the airport for your flight to the next exciting destination, Xian. Upon arrival your guide will be waiting to transfer you to your hotel. Accommodation: The Grand Dynasty Culture Hotel for 3 nights Day 5 Xian Start your day amongst the famous Terracotta Warriors. Grab a souvenir from the museum before scaling China’s oldest wall, the Xian City Wall. In the afternoon, head to the Giant Wild Goose Pagoda, one of the most significant Buddhism sites in China and one of the oldest structures in the country.
largest and best-preserved Islamic mosques in China. Day 7 Beijing Travel in comfort today on China’s fast and efficient high speed rail network to Beijing. The trains travel at speeds of up to 300km/hr and covers the 1216km distance to Beijing in approximately 5 - 6 hours. Accommodation: The Novotel Peace Hotel Beijing for 3 nights Day 8 Beijing In the morning, walk around Tiananmen Square and visit the Forbidden City. Explore Beijing’s fascinating hutongs by rickshaw. Get a glimpse of daily life within the traditional courtyard houses and local markets away from the soaring skyscrapers of modern Beijing. Day 9 Beijing Today make your way to the Mutianyu section of the Great Wall. Hike along the wall’s high ridges and scope out its ancient watchtowers. In the afternoon, venture over to the Summer Palace and the grand Marble Boat. Day 10 Depart Beijing Morning at leisure before your transfer to the airport.
Prices from £2135 per person, based on twin share. Upgrade to 5-star accommodation from £2497 per person.
Day 6 Xian In the morning, travel back in time to 1200 BC as you discover more than 130,000 cultural relics at Shaanxi History Museum. Head to visit the Bell Tower, then visit the Great Mosque, one of the oldest,
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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 £45.
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 June to August and the hottest months are July to September when the temperature can reach 35°C.
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
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
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place of the former British colony offers a spectacular skyline, while a Star Ferry ride across the magnificent harbour brings you
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to vibrant Kowloon, offering a fascinating mix of streets, malls and markets.
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HONG KONG Hotels
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HARBOUR GRAND HONG KONG
DORSETT WANCHAI, HONG KONG
The Harbour Grand Hotel, part of the Harbour Plaza Group, occupies a superb location on Hong Kong 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.
Located in the heart of Wan Chai and Causeway Bay, the Dorsett Wanchai Hong Kong (formerly Cosmopolitan Hotel Hong Kong) is surrounded by an extremely characteristic, lively and convenient neighbourhood. This recently renovated hotel is adjacent to the renown Happy Valley Racecourse. The Causeway Bay MTR station is just 8-min walk away from the hotel. Most rooms offer spectacular views over the racecourse. Facilities include a restaurant, bar, and free shuttle bus service.
Offer Receive 4 nights for the price of 3. Dates vary, call for details.
Offer Receive up to 25% off when booking in advance. Dates vary.
Prices from £74 per person per night, based on room only.
Prices from £67 per person per night including breakfast daily.
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STANFORD HILLVIEW HOTEL
HARBOUR GRAND KOWLOON
Surrounded by lush trees and Hong Kong’s best shopping and entertainment hotspots, the Stanford Hillview Hotel - located in Tsim Sha Tsui’s famed Knutsford Terrace - offers you an unparalleled experience of leisure and lively activity in the heart of the city. If you’d like to explore other parts of Hong Kong, the hotel is just an 8-minute walk from Tsim Sha Tsui MTR station, or you may also choose to use their complimentary shuttle bus services to other major transportation transits.
The Harbour Grand Kowloon enjoys one of the most unique locations in the city, right on the Kowloon waterfront, just a few steps away from MTR Whampoa station and 8 minutes from 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 free breakfast. Facilities include a superb rooftop pool, whirlpool, fitness centre, bar and a choice of six award-winning restaurants.
Offer Receive a 10% discount when staying 5 nights or more. Year round.
Offer Receive up to 20% when booking in advance. Dates vary.
Prices from £47 per person per night, based on room only.
Prices £90 per person per night, based on room only.
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HONG KONG Hotels
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KOWLOON HARBOURFRONT HOTEL
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KOWLOON SHANGRI-LA, HONG KONG
The Kowloon Harbourfront Hotel is a cosmopolitan hotel that offers waterfront living with magnificent views of Hong Kong’s skyline. Families will be especially suited to this hotel, with its 2-bedroom Family Suites (double and single bed) or 2-bedroom Quad room (2 x double beds or 1 x double and 1 x twin), all with city or harbour views. Facilities include a 60m swimming pool, jacuzzi, children’s pool, sundeck, fitness centre, massage, yoga and games room. Free shuttle bus to the MTR station.
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 Stay 4 nights for the price of 3 nights. Offer dates vary.
Offer Bottle of house wine for honeymooners/anniversaries.
Prices from £71 per person per night, based on room only.
Prices from £140 per person per night, based on room only.
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THE LANGHAM HONG KONG HHHHH
The Langham, Hong Hong is situated amongst one of the most popular areas of the city, surrounded by designer boutiques and over 700 shops. Walking distance to the Star Ferry and MTR underground. This recently refurbished hotel epitomises timeless European elegance. There are 498 luxurious guest rooms including 27 opulent suites. There are five high quality restaurants, one of which holds a Three Michelin Star status, and an award-winning bar concept. Adjacent to the rooftop swimming pool is a fitness centre. Offer Receive up to a 10% discount when staying 5 nights or more. Dates vary. Prices from £170 per person per night based on room only.
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HONG KONG Day Tours
Hong Kong Island Tour An Island Tour which takes in many of the main attractions of the former British colony: Victoria Peak, Repulse Bay, Stanley Market and Aberdeen fishing village on Hong Kong Island. As the city continuously changes, this tour enables you to refresh old memories and for first time visitors to create new ones. Departs daily. Half day small group tour. Price from £35 per person.
Dim Sum Cooking Class Dim Sum, literally means touching your heart, a Cantonese style snack. The beauty of the dim sum is the skill of the chef and also the combination of the ingredients on offer. The chef will unveil the secret recipe and guide you to create one for yourself. Enjoy your hands-on experience and the dim sum that you make in the class. Half day small group tour. Price from £55 per person.
Kowloon Foodie Adventure Tour Be guided on a culinary journey through the streets of Kowloon for a truly unique Hong Kong evening out. Get to sample some of the famous dishes of Hong Kong and find out why the locals are so passionate about their food. Visit five hand-picked locations and eat as the locals do on the streets and in the Dai Pai Dongs. Departs Wed/Thur. Half day small group tour. Price from £80 per person.
Lantau Island & Monastery Tour
Macau
Symphony of Light Cruise
A fascinating tour of Hong Kong’s largest island. Discover a pristine beach, a traditional fishing village, lush valleys, soaring mountains and spiritual enlightenment. Enjoy a ferry ride to MuiWo, visit Cheung Sha Beach and Tai O fishing village, Po Lin Monastery and the Giant Buddha, before heading to Tung Chung on the cable car. Includes lunch and cable car ride. Departs daily. Full day small group tour. Price from £105 per person.
Often called the Las Vegas of the East with its modern casinos, Macau also has a number of UNESCO listed heritage sites. Explore the areas of Cotai and Macau peninsula. Discover the blend of the two cultures as you visit some of the most popular attractions in Macau, including Ruins of St Paul’s, A-Ma Temple and Macau Tower. Departs daily. Full day small group tour. Price from £110 per person.
Enjoy an uninterrupted view of the ‘A Symphony of Light’ show from Victoria Harbour on a traditional Chinese style tour boat. Harbour front buildings come to life during this dazzling light display. The Symphony of Light show has been awarded the world’s “Largest permanent light and sound show” by the Guinness World Records. Departs daily. Evening group cruise. Price from £40 per person.
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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
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of the world’s best shopping and hotels, along with some fantastic cuisine. Be sure to check out Chinatown, Boat
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Quay and Little India. Sentosa is Singapore’s own island resort getaway. Located just a 15-minute drive from the city, it is accessible by cable car, taxi or
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SINGAPORE Hotels
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THE FULLERTON HOTEL SINGAPORE
SHANGRI-LA HOTEL, SINGAPORE
A luxury hotel in the heart of Singapore’s Central Business District, The Fullerton Hotel Singapore occupies one of Singapore’s most majestic and historic structures: the neoclassical Fullerton Building. In addition to luxurious guestrooms which overlook either the courtyard atrium or the Singapore River, the hotel features four excellent restaurants including the Lobby Courtyard serving Afternoon Tea and a bar. Other facilities include an infinity pool, fitness center, spa and luxury boutiques.
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 five-minute stroll from Orchard Road. There are 792 luxury rooms and suites in three distinctive wings; the contemporary Tower Wing, the tropical Garden Wing and the exclusive Valley Wing. Facilities include an outdoor pool, 24hr gym, spa, sauna and choice of restaurants.
Offer Receive 4 nights for the price of 3. Offer dates vary, call for details.
Offer Receive 3 nights for the price of 2. Offer dates vary, call for details.
Prices from £136 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
Prices from £125 per person per night, based on room only.
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PARK HOTEL CLARKE QUAY
SHANGRI-LA’S RASA SENTOSA RESORT & SPA
Park Hotel Clarke Quay, with its classic architecture is a tropical retreat in the heart of the cosmopolitan city. Facing the Singapore River, Park Hotel Clarke Quay’s 336 guestrooms and suites provide guests with sweeping views of the city skyline and the country’s famous historic sea-trading artery. Facilities include a 25 metre outdoor pool, Jacuzzi, a spectacular deck and bar with cabana style pavilions and restaurant. Robertson Quay offers an array of bars and restaurants all within easy walking distance.
Located on Sentosa Island, Shangri-La’s Rasa Sentosa Resort & Spa offers a modern tropical holiday experience along Siloso Beach just a 20 minute drive from Orchard Road. Each of the 454 guestroom comes with a private balcony overlooking views of the hills, the China Sea or landscaped gardens. Facilities include an outdoor pool, spa and fitness centre, children’s water slides and splash pad. The Sea Sports Centre provides non-motorised water sports equipment such as kayaks and paddle boats.
Offer Receive 3 nights for the price of 2. Offer dates vary, call for details.
Offer Receive a 10% discount when staying 5 nights or more.
Prices from £92 per person per night, based on room only.
Prices from £133 per person per night, based on room only.
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SINGAPORE Day Tours
City Tour
Garden By The Bay
Footsteps of our Colonial Past
Drive past the significant monuments of the Civic District before stopping at the Merlion Park to take in impressive views of Marina Bay. Visit Singapore’s oldest Buddhist-Taoist temple and be captivated by the blooms at the National Orchid Garden before your final stop at the fascinating enclave of Little India. Halfday Group Tour. Price from £22 per person.
Experience a blooming world of wonders at this award-winning attraction featuring more than 500,000 plants from over 2,200 species. Discover 9 different gardens from 6 continents inside the simulated Mediterranean climate of the Flower Dome. Explore the world’s tallest indoor waterfall and 7 discovery zones within the Cloud Forest. Excludes Drop Off, Group Tour. Price from £23 per person.
Our tour starts at The Singapore River - the lifeline of Singapore where the first immigrants worked and lived. Learn about the history of the Singapore River before stopping at The Fullerton Hotel Singapore for a delightful Afternoon Tea. Walk it off at The Fullerton Heritage Gallery before ending with a bumboat cruise. Half Day Group Tour. Price from £57 per person.
Night Safari
Night Out In Chinatown
Singapore By Night
Venture into the world’s first nocturnal wildlife park, set over 35 hectares of secondary forest. Traverse the jungle from the comfort of a tram and see a myriad of animals in their natural habitat. A walking trail lets you view some animals at close quarters. Four interlinked walking trails let you view more animals within close range. Evening Group Tour. Price from £36 per person.
Embrace the bustling excitement of Chinatown where everything comes alive at night. At a Chinese medical hall, learn how Traditional Chinese Medicine can help to regulate your Yin and Yang. After dinner at a local restaurant, shop at the Night Market and take a trishaw ride through alleyways to Clarke Quay for a bumboat cruise along the Singapore River. Evening Group Tour. Price from £52 per person.
Enjoy a local Chinese Dinner in the comfort of an air-conditioned restaurant. Take in the beautiful sight of Singapore’s CBD via the Benjamin Sheares Bridge en-route to the world’s largest fountain. Explore Bugis Street or other seasonal night bazaars for bargains and round up the evening at Smoke & Mirrors for the legendary Singapore Sling. Evening Group Tour. Price from £52 per person.
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EASTERN & ORIENTAL EXPRESS Rail Journeys
Enjoy a panoramic view of the mystical landscapes of Thailand, Singapore and Malaysia aboard the majesty and splendour of the Eastern & Oriental Express train. With its comfortable and elegant cabins, 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 cabin with en suite facilities, all table d’hôte meals and beverages on board and sightseeing tours. Dates of departure on request. THAILAND
Bangkok
Penang MALAYSIA
Singapore
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3 DAY SINGAPORE - BANGKOK
4 DAY BANGKOK - SINGAPORE
The two contrasting cities of Singapore and Bangkok symbolise the excitement and diversity of Asian metropolitan life. The ultimate way to discover these iconic cities is to journey between them aboard the Eastern & Oriental Express, through gently unfolding rural landscapes, past temples, tea plantations, colonial cities, ancient villages and historic monuments.
Day 1 Depart from Bangkok and settle into your private cabin as the train rolls through Bangkok city to countryside. Dinner is served in one of the luxurious dining cars. Afterwards, head to the Bar Car to relax with fellow travellers or retire to your cosy converted cabin.
Day 1 Depart from Singapore and settle into your elegant cabin as the train leaves Singapore and crosses over the Johor Causeway into Malaysia. Later, dress for dinner in the Restaurant Car, followed by an enticing cocktail or liqueur in the Bar Car. Retire to your cabin, which has been transformed into an inviting bedroom. Day 2 Arrive in Kuala Kangsar after a leisurely breakfast in the comfort of your cabin. Take your morning excursion of choice before re-joining the train at Padang Rengas Station. Enjoy lunch before spending a relaxing afternoon at leisure on board. In the evening, further culinary delights are served in the Restaurant Car, after which you may wish to enjoy a drink in the Bar Car before your final night’s sleep on board.
Day 2 Arrive in Kanchanaburi after breakfast and disembark for your chosen excursion. Back on board, a leisurely afternoon and evening await before preparing for a sumptuous dinner, preceded perhaps by an enticing signature cocktail in the Bar Car.
Day 3 River Kwai - Bangkok Following breakfast in your cabin, disembark at River Kwai Station late morning for your chosen morning excursion. Back on board, lunch is served as the train makes its way towards Bangkok, arriving in the late afternoon. Alight here for your onward travel arrangements.
Day 3 Travel from Kuala Kangsar – Kuala Lumpur today. Spend the morning relaxing. After lunch arrive in Kuala Kangsar and take your excursion of choice. Re-join the train and prepare for a gastronomic dinner and a relaxing evening in the Bar Car.
Prices from £2188 per person, based on a twin-share cabin.
Prices from £2285 per person, based on a twin-share cabin.
Day 4 Arrive in Singapore late morning for your onward travel arrangements.
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PHILIPPINES
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PHILIPPINES There are thousands of reasons to visit the Philippines. It may be famous for its powder white sands, turquoise waters and stunning coral reefs, but there’s so much more to discover on the 7,107 islands in this magical corner of the world. Whether you’re looking for water sports or a slice of culture, or just fancy lazing on beautiful beaches, the Philippines truly has something for every traveller.
Getting there The national carrier Philippine Airlines flies direct from London Heathrow to Manila. Flight duration is approximately 14 hours. Other carriers serve Manila with one stop en route. Cebu City is a popular alternative for a first port of call. Emirates fly to Cebu City via Dubai and Cathay Pacific fly via Hong Kong.
capital Manila, the City of Cebu and Davao, while others are more remote and tropical, which offers something for every traveller. Wherever you go though you won’t ever be more than two hours away from one of its gorgeous beaches. The little group of islands make for one gigantic stretch of coastline, more than 15,500 kilometres in fact!
LUZON
Manila Naga MINDORO
Guide to the country The Philippines is an archipelago bounded by the Pacific Ocean to the east the Bashi Channel to the north the Sulu and the Celebes Seas to the south. You can find the Philippine islands on the east of Vietnam, north of Indonesia. There are 7,107 islands that make up the Philippines and they’re divided into three regionsLuzon, Visayas and Mindanao. Some islands have become bustling cosmopolitan cities, such as the
Tacloban PA N AY
Cebu
Puerto Princesa NEGROS
P A L A WA N
When to go The dry season is the most popular time to visit. This is generally November to April. During this period December and January are the coolest months and the best time to travel. The temperatures start to rise in March and April when it can be very hot.
Cagayan de Oro MINDANAO
Davao
Important to note For British passport holders: You can enter the Philippines without a visa for an initial period of 30 days. The currency is the Philippine Peso. For vaccination requirements please contact your local doctor.
MANILA AVERAGE MONTHLY TEMPERATURES AND RAINFALL (Temperatures in °C, Rainfall in millimetres) Jan °C R 26 10
Feb °C 27
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R 10
Mar °C 28
R 10
Apr °C 29
R 20
May °C 30
R 60
Jun °C 28
R 90
Jul °C R 28 120
Aug °C R 27 140
Sep °C R 28 110
Oct °C 27
R 80
Nov °C 27
R 20
Dec °C 26
R 10
PHILIPPINES
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BEST OF THE PHILIPPINES 10 Day Private Tour
Experience some of the highlights of this spectacular destination. Begin with Cebu; one of the most developed provinces in the Philippines, then on to Bohol; home of the Chocolate Hills which are hundreds of dome-shaped limestone hills. Relax on the white sandy beaches on the island of Boracay, before a brief stay in Manila; the capital and cultural centre of the Philippines.
Price includes • 9 nights hotel accommodation • Breakfast daily and 2 lunches • All land and boat transfers • Flights Bohol-Boracay-Manila • Touring as shown Day 1 Cebu Met on arrival at Cebu International Airport where you will be met by an Englishspeaking guide. You will then be transferred to your hotel for a 2-night stay. Rest of the day at leisure. Standard: Crimson Mactan; Superior: Shangri-La Mactan Day 2 Cebu Breakfast at the resort. Get ready for a day of sun, sea and sand! The adventure begins after breakfast when your tour guide escorts you to board the outrigger canoe from a designated jetty. Cruise along the waters of the Mactan Channel and swing around Nalusuan, Sulpa and Hilutungan Islands. Drop anchor at Hilutungan Island for swimming, snorkelling and enjoy Cebu’s underwater attractions before moving on for a delicious picnic lunch at Pandanon Island. Note this is a small group tour.
arrival and privately transferred to the beautiful Panglao Island for a 3 night stay. Enjoy this tranquil retreat and watch Bohol’s colourful sunsets and explore the local restaurants that face the crystal-clear water and white sand beach of Panglao. Standard: Bellevue Bohol; Superior: Amorita Bohol (including complimentary one hour massage) Day 4 Bohol Breakfast at the resort. Day at leisure. Day 5 Bohol Tour Breakfast at the resort. Enjoy a full day tour of Bohol’s scenic countryside, a beautiful showcase of history, culture and nature in one destination. This tour brings you to the historic Blood Compact Shrine, a historical landmark commemorating the 1st Treaty of Friendship between the east and the west. Next stop is the centuries-old Baclayon Church & Museum then proceed to the Tarsier Sanctuary and visit to the Tarsiers, the smallest known primate. En route to the Chocolate Hills,
Day 3 Cebu - Bohol Breakfast at the resort. Your English-speaking guide will meet you at the hotel lobby and transfer you to Cebu Pier for the 2-hour ferry journey to Bohol. Met on
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BEST OF THE PHILIPPINES 10 Day Private Tour
drive through the lush mahogany forest and the green farmlands in Bilar and Batuan. In Bilar visit a Butterfly Farm. View the awesome cone-shaped hills known as the Chocolate Hills from a viewing deck on top of one of these hills. Drive back to Loboc for a 50-minute river cruise along nipa-lined river on board a native catamaran. A sumptuous lunch of local cuisine is served on board. Relax and enjoy the view of nature’s beauty; rolling hills, graceful coconut trees and green nipa-palms lining the riverbanks. Head back to your accommodation. Day 6 Bohol - Boracay Breakfast at the resort. Transfer to Bohol pier for the ferry back to Cebu. Arrive in Cebu pier where you will be welcomed by an English-speaking guide who will transfer you to the airport for your short flight to Caticlan (nearest airport for Boracay). You will be met on arrival and transferred to your hotel by boat and road for a 3-night stay in Boracay. Note: on certain days there is a direct flight from Bohol to Caticlan (Boracay) – no difference in price. Standard: Coast, Boracay; Superior: Shangri-La Boracay Days 7-8 Boracay Breakfast at the resort. Two full days at leisure. We can offer an IslandHopping day tour if this is of interest. Price on request.
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Day 9 Boracay - Manila Breakfast at the resort. Transfer to Caticlan airport by boat and road for your flight to Manila. Met on arrival and proceed to begin the Manila City Tour. Take a step back in time as you discover the “Charms of Old Manila”. The tour starts with a visit to historic Rizal Park, where the remains of the country’s national hero, Dr. Jose Rizal, lie within the cornerstone of the Rizal Monument. The tour then heads on to the old walled city of Intramuros built during the Spanish colonial period. The first stop is Fort Santiago which served as headquarters of the military might of the Spanish, American and Japanese colonisers until its destruction in 1945. You will also get a chance to view indigenous fabrics and artworks at Manila Collectible. Tour then proceeds past the San Agustin Church, the oldest structure in the country which dates back to 1571. The next stop is Casa Manila, a reconstructed 19th century mansion replete with 16th to 19th
century furniture and furnishings. The last stop to visit is Baluarte De San Diego, located along the walls of Intramuros, Manila, it was designed and built by Jesuit priest Antonio Sedeno from 1586 to 1587 and it is one of the oldest stone fortifications in Intramuros. Lunch will be at a local restaurant inside the walled city. After the tour, you will be transferred to your hotel for a 1-night stay. Standard: Dusit Thani Manila; Superior: Conrad Hotel Manila Day 10 Depart Manila Breakfast at the hotel. Transfer to the airport assisted by an Englishspeaking guide. Prices Standard (4-star) from £1650 per person, based on twin share. Superior (5-star) from £2287 per person based on twin share.
4 DAY EL NIDO EXTENSION Add a 3 night stay at El Nido Cove Resort on the Palawan Islands. Price includes: • Roundtrip flights Caticlan (Boracay) - El Nido - Manila • 3 nights at El Nido Cove Resort with breakfast • Roundtrip airport transfers Prices from £450 per person based on twin share
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TAIWAN The beautiful island of Taiwan, lies just over 110 miles to the east of China. A country of modern, cosmopolitan cities, traditional temples, hot springs and spectacular mountain scenery. Enjoy the contrast between the frenetic 24-hour pace of Taipei, with its cloud-piercing Taipei 101 Tower and the natural beauty of the countryside.
Getting there EVA Air offer direct flights daily from London Heathrow to Taipei (Taoyuan International Airport). Flight duration is approximately 16 hours with a touch down in Bangkok en route.
Keelung
Taipei Hsinchu
Guide to the country Located in East Asia, Taiwan is a narrow and long island in the north-eastern corner of the Pacific Ocean. Taiwan and its affiliated islands possess a truly one of a kind natural beauty. It has varied terrain, spectacular forestry, rich agricultural resources and a precious marine ecosystem, not to mention unique ethnic and cultural customs. The capital, Taipei with its impressive 101 Tower is a must-see. To the south take in the history of Tainan with its myriad of temples. Escape the cities with a stay at Sun Moon Lake. Taiwan is a must-see destination and an unforgettable experience!
Taichung Hualien YUSHAN N AT I O N A L PA R K
When to go Most visitors from Europe favour October to March when the climate is generally warm and dry for most parts of Taiwan. The highest rainfall occurs during the summer months from June to September, which can also be the typhoon season. Summers are hot and humid with temperatures in Taipei around 30ºC. In winter temperatures drop to around 18ºC, but this is a great time to appreciate the beautifully coloured maple trees. Important to note British passport holders can stay for up to 90 days in Taiwan without a visa. Your passport should be valid for a minimum period of six months from the date of entry into Taiwan. Please consult your local doctor for any vaccination requirements. The currency is the New Taiwan Dollar. The official language of Taiwan is Mandarin Chinese. But English is widely-spoken.
Tainan
Kaohsiung
TAIWAN AVERAGE MONTHLY TEMPERATURES AND RAINFALL (Temperatures in °C, Rainfall in millimetres) Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
°C R 16 70
°C R 16 100
°C R 18 120
°C R 22 130
°C R 24 160
°C R 27 160
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Jul °C R 30 190
Aug °C R 29 230
Sep °C R 27 270
Oct °C 24
R 90
Nov °C 21
R 80
Dec °C 18
R 60
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BEST OF TAIWAN 8 Day Small Group Tour
Experience some of Taiwan’s highlights on this 8 day tour. Enjoy the variety; from stays in bustling Taipei and Taiwan’s
Price includes • 7 nights 5-star hotel accommodation • English-speaking guide • Hotel breakfast daily • Admission fees • Air-conditioned vehicles
second largest city, Kaohsiung with the natural beauty of Sun Moon Lake, the scenic east Coast and Taroko National Park. Departs Taipei every Saturday.
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Day 1 Arrive Taipei Met on arrival at Taoyuan International Airport and transferred by private car to your hotel for a 2 night stay. Rest of the day at leisure. Hotel: The Sheraton Taipei Day 2 Taipei City Tour Enjoy a tour of Taipei city, including the impressive Chiang Kai-Shek
Memorial Hall, the National Palace Museum where 5,000 years of Chinese imperial arts and jade collections are exhibited. Visit the Martyrs Shrine of traditional architecture. Day 3 Taipei to Sun Moon Lake Collected from your hotel then a 3-hour drive to Sun Moon Lake, located in the middle of Taiwan and situated at 762 metres above sea level in the lofty mountains of Central Taiwan. The name of the lake is inspired by the beauty of the area. The east side of the lake is round, like the sun, while the west side is long and narrow, like a crescent moon. The tour will stop at the famous Wenwu Temple, also known as Literature-
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erosion, and accumulation have produced a
Warrior Temple. After touring around the lake, check in to your hotel for a 1-night stay. Hotel: Fleur De Chine in a Mountain View room Day 4 Sun Moon Lake to Kaohsiung Pass by the attractive Jiji Railway Station, then drive to Fo Guang Shan Buddhist Monastery, the most famous Buddhist sacred place in Southern Taiwan. Here you will learn about Buddhism during a walking tour of the monastery and visit the Buddha Memorial Centre. Talk with some of the monks or nuns during your visit. Opportunity to try a Buddhist vegetarian lunch (own cost). Continue with a 3-hour drive on to Kaohsiung; Taiwan’s second largest city. A thriving international metropolis at the southern tip of Taiwan, Kaohsiung was the host city for the 2009 World Games. Due to the regulating effects of the marine climate, Kaohsiung is generally sunny and enjoys pleasant weather year-round. Known as “Taiwan’s Maritime Capital,” the city has worked hard in recent years to develop its tourism industry. The tour will take you to Love River and the Liuhe Night Market. Stay in Kaohsiung for 1-night. Hotel: Grand Hi-Lai Hotel Day 5 Kaohsiung to Taitung Morning tour to Kenting National Park, located at Taiwan’s southern tip and the 37 miles of coral-rimmed shoreline along three sides of the park provide
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wide range of landscapes here. Our tour will stop at Xiaoyeliu, Sanxiantai and Shitiping (Stone Steps). Late afternoon, we will proceed to Hualien for an overnight stay at Taroko National Park. Hotel: Silks Place Taroko
its main attractions. Stops will be made at Eluanbi Lighthouse, Maobitou coastal scenic area and Longpan Park. Continue on to Taitung via the Southern Link Highway. From coastal areas to mountain highs, Taitung greets visitors to a land of ecological richness and scenic beauty. The county is also known for its distinctive local products, from premium rice, day lilies, hibiscus, and sugar apples to sailfish, bonito (skipjack tuna), and other specialty seafood items. Ethnic diversity has endowed Taitung with a unique culture, diverse festival occasions, and a vibrant tradition of oral history and myth. Overnight stay at Zhiben. Hotel: Royal Chihpen, Taitung. Enjoy the natural hot spring at the hotel Day 6 Taitung to Taroko After breakfast, it will be an exciting East Coast Tour. The East Coast National Scenic Area, known as “Taiwan’s last unspoiled land”, stretches 170 kilometres down the east coast of the island. Weathering,
Day 7 Taroko National Park After breakfast, we will make a visit to Taroko National Park. Taroko Gorge is an exceptionally beautiful, narrow ravine created by the Liwu River which has cut deep into the mountains of solid marble. A road carved into sheer walls of rock winding its way past forested peaks and cliffs towering thousands of feet above it, while hundreds of feet below a river roars past gigantic marble boulders. Travel via Ci Mui Bridge, stops will be made at the Swallow Grotto, and the Changchun Temple (Eternal Spring Shrine). We will then drive back to Taipei with a stop at Cingshui Cliff, drive through the Syue-Shan Long Tunnel (12.9 Kms) to arrive at around 6pm. Stay 1 night. Hotel: Sheraton Taipei Day 8 Depart Taipei At leisure until your private car transfer to the airport.
Price Small Group Tour from £830 per person, based on twin share. Private Tour from £1900 per person, based on twin share.
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JAPAN
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JAPAN The incredible country of Japan plays host to one of Asia’s most dynamic cultures. Home to serene mountain villages and vibrant megacities alike, Japan is where the world of traditional and super-modern collide – its cultural common denominator an aura of order and balance. For visitors, Japan is both a destination of spectacular natural scenery and urban wonder, with enough history and heritage to fill a lifetime of travel.
Getting there A direct flight from the UK to Japan usually takes around 11-12 hours. Japan Airlines and ANA All Nippon Airways offer direct flights from the UK, linking with several Japanese cities. British Airways also have a daily scheduled service directly to Tokyo. Indirect flight routes to Japan are great value for money and do not take much longer than direct flights. Airlines such as Finnair, Air France and KLM fly from the UK to Japan in around 14 hours, with a short stop-over in their regional hubs in Helsinki, Paris or Amsterdam.
Japan’s Emperors. Try to visit Japan in spring for a chance to see the famous cherry blossom. Experience the world-famous Bullet Train and Japan’s other services. The trains are fast, efficient and very clean. A Japan Rail Pass is offered in set durations from 7-21 days and can be purchased through us in advance. Please call for full details and prices.
Guide to the country Discover the futuristic city of Tokyo and be prepared for the sights and sounds of a destination like you’ve never seen before. Enjoy the picturesque Nikko, a World Heritage site renowned for Japan’s loveliest shrines. The town of Hakone is surrounded by countryside of peaks and lakes. Take a cable car for a great view of Mount Fuji. Kyoto, formerly the capital of Japan for 1000 years, is what most visitors imagine when they think of traditional Japan. This is a beautiful city of temples, geishas and gardens. Take a wander through Gion, a district of Kyoto; a historic part of the city, also known as the Geisha district. Visit historic Nara, once home to
When to go The best time to visit Japan is from March through to May when the temperature is pleasant and the cherry blossom trees are usually in blossom in the latter part of March. Summer, from June through to August, can be hot. June and July are generally the wettest months with monsoon rainfall. Winter, from December to January can be very cold, with snowfall possible. Important to note Visas are not required for UK passport holders. Japan is nine hours ahead of GMT. The currency is the Yen. Vaccinations are not required for Japan, but for any recommended vaccinations please contact your local doctor.
TOKYO AVERAGE MONTHLY TEMPERATURES AND RAINFALL (Temperatures in °C, Rainfall in millimetres) Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec °C R 6 50
°C R 6 71
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°C R 9 106
°C R °C R 14 129 19 144
°C R 22 176
°C R 25 136
°C R °C R 27 148 23 216
°C R °C R 18 194 13 96
°C R 8 54
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BEST OF JAPAN 9 Day Private Tour
Nestled on the eastern frontier of Asia, the magical nation of Japan is a juxtaposition of past and future. A stone’s throw from the vibrant, neon glow of downtown Tokyo hides peaceful Zen gardens pictures of simplicity and calm. Contemporary art museums flank centuries-old Buddhist temples and skyscrapers erupt from cityscapes a bullet train ride away from the towering natural wonder of Mount Fuji. For the culturally curious, Japan is a hub of adventure waiting to be uncovered. International flights not included.
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Price includes • 8 nights accommodation • Airport meet and greet service (Tokyo only) • Airport transfers via shared shuttle bus service • IC Card (1500 yen) for use on buses and trains • Guided 1-day tours of Tokyo and Kyoto
Day 1 Arrive Tokyo After welcoming you, your assistant can help you deal with various procedures such as handing over documents, buy train or bus tickets, exchange the Japan Rail Pass voucher for the actual pass, exchange currencies, buy a SIM card or rent a mobile phone. You will be escorted to the boarding point for the shared shuttle bus. On arrival at your hotel, you will be provided with an IC card to be used for buses and trains with 1500Y value already loaded. Stay 3 nights in Tokyo. Standard: Shiba Park Hotel, Superior: Mandarin Oriental Day 2 Tour of Tokyo Take a day tour of this fascinating city with a local guide, making use of Tokyo’s comprehensive and user friendly public transport system. The day begins with a visit to Meiji Shrine, a shrine dedicated to the deified spirit of Emperor Meiji and a popular place for traditional Japanese weddings. Take
a walk down Omotesando shopping street, a broad tree lined avenue home to the flagship stores of the world’s top fashion brands. Head across town to Asakusa, Tokyo’s old town and soak in the atmosphere of the Tokyo of old. Visit Sensoji, Tokyos oldest temple and wander down Nakamise, a shopping street that has been providing temple visitors with a variety of traditional, local snacks and tourist souvenirs for centuries. Take a boat cruise on the Sumida River passing under 12 bridges. Disembark in Hamarikyu garden, an Edo Period Japanese garden surrounded by the Shiodome district’s futuristic skyscrapers, a great example of how Japan is the land of contrasts. Stop for a cup of steaming matcha and Japanese sweets in a tea house on a small island in the park’s lake before returning to your hotel. Day 3 Day at leisure Full day free to explore Tokyo. Or perhaps take advantage of Japan’s fantastic public transportation to travel further afield to Nikko, Kamakura or Yokohama. Head into the mountains of Nikko to discover the natural wonders of Japan alongside worldheritage shrines and temples. Combine Nikko with a trip to the Kawaji hot springs to truly get away from it all. Kamakura, just 1 hour south of Tokyo, is the ancient city of the samurai and boasts not only mountains, but a beautiful coastline too. For a taste of smaller city life
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venture south to Yokohama to spend time by the bay and explore Japan’s largest china town.
Stay 3 nights in Kyoto. Standard ANA Crowne Plaza Kyoto, Superior Suiran Luxury Hotel
Day 4 Tokyo to Hakone Hakone is one of Japan’s most famous hot spring (onsen) areas and rich in unspoilt nature. You will be provided with The 3 Day Hakone Freepass. This is an excursion ticket offering full coverage of the popular sightseeing destinations in Hakone. The Hakone Freepass allows you to get on and off freely within a specified area, as well as providing discount admission to various attractions in the area, and also includes return transportation on the Odakyu Line. Stay 2 nights in Hakone. Standard: Aura Tachibana, Superior: Gora Kadan
Day 7 Tour of Kyoto Explore the former imperial capital of Japan with a knowledgeable local guide, utilizing Kyoto’s comprehensive bus system to visit some of the city’s famous World Heritage Sites. Start your day with a visit to Kinkakuji Temple (Golden Pavilion) which was originally built as a retirement villa for the Shogun but, at his request, became a Buddhist Temple after his death. Next, make your way to Nijo Castle, an ornamental castle built by the founder of the Edo Shogunate and surrounded by stunning gardens. famous for its architecture, decorated sliding doors and ‘chirping’ nightingale floors. Then, head to Heian Shrine, built on the occasion of the 1100th anniversary of the capital’s foundation in Kyoto and is dedicated to the spirits of the first and last emperors who reigned from the city, Emperor Kammu and Emperor Komei. Finally, make a visit to Kiyomizu Temple (Pure Water Temple) and enjoy the panoramic views of Kyoto from the 13 metre high veranda jutting out from the Main Hall. Learn about the interesting history of the building and how both the Main Hall and Veranda were built without the use of nails or any kind of joiners.
Day 5 Hakone touring Spend the days exploring the park with your included Hakone Transport Pass and drift on a pirate ship across the three-thousand year old Lake Ashi or catch a glimpse of Mt. Fuji as you ride the ropeway (cable car) above the boiling valley of Owakudani. Day 6 Hakone to Kyoto Depart Hakone by train to Odawara. Then bullet train to Kyoto. Travel in comfort on Japan’s fast and efficient highspeed rail network. The trains travel at speeds of up to 300km/hr and cover the 430km distance to Kyoto in approximately 2 hours.
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Kyoto. Alternatively, why not take a short trip to Nara which has significant temples and artwork dating back to the 8th century when it was Japan’s Capital. Day 9 Transfer to airport Met at your hotel by your driver and transferred to Osaka Kansai Airport for your onward flight. Prices Standard from £1875 per person, Superior from £4289 per person, based on twin share.
Day 8 Day at leisure Full day free to explore
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BOOKING CONDITIONS Your contract is with Gazelle Travel Limited, trading as Inspired by Asia whose
buy a holiday not including a flight, all monies you pay to the travel agent are held by him
registered office is at 15 North Parade, Bradford, BD1 3JL. Company registration
on our behalf at all times. Prices in this brochure were calculated using exchange rates
number: 1526617.
quoted on 1st October 2017: THB 44.50, MYR 5.65, USD 1.34, SGD 1.82, HKD 10.45
1. Your Booking Contract When you make a booking you guarantee that you have the
and YEN 150.00. Changes in transportation costs, including the cost of fuel, dues, taxes or
authority to accept and do accept on behalf of your party the terms of these booking
fees chargeable for services such as landing taxes or embarkation/disembarkation fees at
conditions. A contract will exist as soon as we issue our confirmation invoice. This contract
airports and ports and in exchanges rates mean that the price of your travel arrangements
is made on the terms of these booking conditions, which are governed by English Law, and
may change after you have booked. However, if there is a change within 30 days of your
the jurisdiction of the English Courts. You may however, choose the law and jurisdiction
ex UK departure date, we will absorb these and you will not be charged for any increase
of Scotland or Northern Ireland should you wish to do so. During the life of this brochure,
equivalent to 2% of the price of your travel arrangements, which excludes any amendment
these conditions are subject to change and an up to date copy will be sent with our
charges. You will be charged for the amount over and above that. If this means that you
quotation and available on our website: www.inspiredbyasia.co.uk
have to pay an increase of more than 10% of the price of your travel arrangements, you
2. Your Financial Protection We provide financial protection for our package holidays. For
will have the option of accepting a change to another holiday if we are able to offer one (if
flight based holidays this is through our Air Travel Organisers Licence no. 4067. When you buy an ATOL protected flight inclusive holiday you will receive a Confirmation Invoice and an ATOL Certificate from us (or via our authorised agent through which you booked) confirming your arrangements and your protection under our ATOL. This lists what is financially protected, where you can get information on, what this means for you and who to contact if things go wrong. 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. Further information is shown on the ATOL Certificate or visit the
this is of a higher quality you will not have to pay more but if it is of a 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 arrangements go down, due to the changes mentioned above, by more than 2% of the total 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 arrangements due
ATOL website at www.atol.org.uk We, or the suppliers identified on your ATOL Certificate,
to contractual and other protection in place.
will provide you with the services listed on the ATOL Certificate (or a suitable alternative). In
5. If You Change Your Booking If, after our confirmation invoice has been issued, you wish
some cases, where neither we nor the supplier are able to do so for reasons of insolvency,
to change your travel arrangements in any way, for example your chosen departure date
and with the prior agreement of the CAA, an alternative ATOL holder may provide you
or accommodation, within one year, we will do our utmost to make these changes but it
with the services you have bought or a suitable alternative (at no extra cost to you). You
may not always be possible. Any request for changes to be made must also be made in
agree to accept that in those circumstances the alternative ATOL holder will perform those
writing from the person who made the booking or via your travel agent. You will be asked
obligations and you agree to pay any money outstanding to be paid by you under your
to pay an administration charge of £30 per altered item plus any further costs we incur
contract to that alternative ATOL holder. However, you also agree that in some cases it will
in making this alteration. You should be aware that these costs could increase the closer
not be possible to appoint an alternative ATOL holder, in which case you will be entitled to
to departure date that changes are made and you should contact us or your travel agent
make a claim under the ATOL scheme (or your credit card issuer where applicable). If we,
as soon as possible. Note: Certain travel arrangements e.g. (but not limited to) air tickets,
or the suppliers identified on your ATOL certificate, are unable to provide the services listed
accommodation, rail or touring products, may not be changeable after the reservation has
(or a suitable alternative, through an alternative ATOL holder or otherwise) for reasons of
been made and confirmed and any alteration request could incur a cancellation charge of
insolvency, the Trustees of the Air Travel Trust may make a payment to (or confer a benefit
up to 100% of that part of the arrangements.
on) you under the ATOL scheme. You agree that in return for such a payment or benefit
6. If You Cancel Your Booking You, or any member of your party, may cancel travel
you assign absolutely to those Trustees any claims which you have or may have arising out of or relating to the non-provision of the services, including any claim against us, the travel agent (or your credit card issuer where applicable). You also agree that any such claims may be re-assigned to another body, if that other body has paid sums you have claimed under the ATOL scheme. When you buy a package holiday that doesn’t include a flight, protection is provided by way of a bond held by ABTA the Travel Association membership number Y6458. 3. ABTA We are a member of ABTA, membership number Y6458. We are obliged to maintain a high standard of service to you by ABTA’s Code of Conduct. We can also provide you ABTA’s scheme for the resolution of disputes which is approved by the Chartered Trading Standards Institute. If we can’t resolve your complaint go to www.abta. com to use ABTA’s simple procedure. Further information on the Code of Conduct and ABTA’s assistance in resolving disputes can be found on www.abta.com
arrangements at any time. Written notification from the person who made the booking or from your travel agent must be received at our offices for this to take effect. Since we incur costs in cancelling any 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 Booking It is unlikely that we will have to make any alterations to your travel arrangements but we plan them many months in advance and occasionally we may have to make changes and reserve the right to do so at any time. Most of these changes will be minor and we will advise you or your 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, it may have to be cancelled. However, we will not
4. Your Booking Price and Payment We reserve the right to alter the prices shown in our
cancel your travel arrangements less than 10 weeks before your departure date, except
brochure. You will be advised of the current price of the arrangements that you wish to
for reasons of force majeure or failure by you to pay the final balance. If we are unable
book before your contract is confirmed. When you make your booking you must pay a
to provide the booked travel arrangements, you can either have a refund of all monies
deposit of £300 per person or 10% of the holiday cost (whichever is the greater). For
paid or accept an offer of alternative travel arrangements of a comparable standard from
certain arrangements and at certain periods, especially (but not limited to) air tickets,
us, if available (we will refund any price difference if the alternative is of a lower value). If
accommodation, rail or touring products, Christmas and Easter, a higher deposit may be
it is necessary to cancel your travel arrangements, we will pay you compensation as set
required and you will be notified of this prior to booking. The balance payment of the price
out in this clause. Any changes to the airline arrangements after you have received your
of your travel arrangements must be paid at least 10 weeks before your departure date,
tickets will be notified to you or your travel agent as soon as possible and in all cases at
and for certain arrangements this payment may be required earlier and you will be advised
check-in or boarding gate. Some changes are deemed to be a minor charge, for example
of the amount and the date payment is required. If the deposit and/or balance is not paid
but not limited to, alteration of the flight in either direction by less than 12 hours, changes
in time, we shall cancel your travel arrangements. If the balance is not paid in time we
to the aircraft type, changes to the accommodation to another of the same standard. If
shall retain your deposit. When you buy a flight based holiday, all monies you pay to the
we make a major change to your booking, we will inform you or your travel agent as soon
travel agent are held by him on behalf and for the benefit of the Trustees of the Air Travel
as reasonably possible if there is time before your departure. You will have the chance
trust at all times. This is subject to the agent’s obligation to pay it to us for so long as we
of either accepting the change of arrangements, accepting an offer of alternative travel
do not fail. If we fail, any money held at that time by the agent, or subsequently accepted
arrangements of a comparable standard from us, if available (we will refund any price
from you by him, is and continues to be held on behalf of and for the benefit of the
difference if the alternative is of a lower value), or cancelling your booking and receiving a
Trustees of the Air Travel Trust without any obligation to pay that money to us. When you
full refund of all monies paid. In all cases, except where the major change arises due to
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BOOKING CONDITIONS reasons of force majeure, we will pay compensation per booking as detailed in this table:
does not comply with these rules you should complain to the Civil Aviation Authority via www.caa.co.uk. This brochure is our responsibility as your tour operator and was correct
Period before departure within which notice of Cancellation or major change is received by us or notified to you More than 70 days 70 - 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 Amount you will receive from us Deposit only Monies paid + £20 Monies paid + £30 Monies paid + £50
IF YOU CANCEL YOUR HOLIDAY MAXIMUM amount of cancellation charge* Deposit only 50% of holiday cost 75% of holiday cost 100% of holiday cost
The compensation we offer does not preclude you from claiming more if you are entitled to do so.
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
requirements, and any other immigration requirements are your responsibility and you should confirm these with the relevant Embassies, High Commissions and/or Consulates. It is your responsibility to ensure that all other documentation and requirements such as valid. We do not accept responsibility if you cannot travel or fulfil your travel arrangements
beyond our control or that of our supplier partners. These can include, for example (but
because you have not complied with any passport, visa, immigration requirements or other
not limited to) war, riot, industrial dispute, terrorist activity and its consequences, natural or
documentation requirements.
nuclear events, fire, adverse weather conditions, epidemics and pandemics, unavoidable
12. Brochure And Website Accuracy Every effort is taken to ensure the accuracy of the information in this brochure and on our website. However, changes to such information
8. If You Have a Complaint If you encounter a problem or have cause for complaint with
can be made at any time and we reserve the right to make such changes after publication
your travel arrangements, it should be reported immediately to our local supplier (e.g. hotel
of this brochure. As far as possible, the quotation and travel documents will contain
manager, transfer company etc.), and as soon as possible to our local representative/agent
relevant information and where we are notified of such changes we will make every effort
and they will try to rectify the problem at the time. If no representative/agent is available, or
to advise you or your travel agent. However, should we not be able to do so we cannot
if they are unable to resolve the matter to your satisfaction, please then refer to your travel
be held liable for such changes. We accept no responsibility for information and advice
documents for our contact details and contact us as soon as possible. If your complaint
provided by any third party websites or telephone numbers shown herein.
cannot be resolved locally having reported it, you must inform our representative/agent in
13. Insurance It is a condition of booking your holiday that you take out suitable insurance
the supplier or our representative/agent as per the above. For all problems or complaints, failure to comply with this procedure may mean that your right to claim any compensation you may have otherwise have been entitled to may be affected or lost as a result. Please also refer to section 3 regarding the ABTA Arbitration Scheme. 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, 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 Australasia does not accept any liability for any services or facilities which your accommodation or other supplier agrees to provide to/for you where the services or facilities are not advertised in our brochure and we have not agreed to arrange them. Excursions, tours or other arrangement 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 tour or other arrangement that you book, your contract will be with the operator of the excursion, tour or other arrangement and not with us. We are not responsible for the provision of the excursion, tour or other arrangement 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 ABTA No.Y6458
avoided even if all due care had been exercised, or an event which we or our suppliers,
(but not limited to) driving licences & permits, travel insurance, health certificates etc. are
problem or complaint that could have been rectified there and then had you notified us,
www.inspiredbyasia.co.uk
circumstances beyond our control, the consequence of which could not have been
or change your travel arrangements in any way because of unforeseeable circumstances
into the UK. If you fail to follow this procedure, we cannot accept responsibility for any
•
the provision of the services, or as a result of failures due to unusual and unforeseeable
Force Majeure: This means that we will not pay you compensation if we have to cancel
writing whilst overseas and follow this up in writing to us with 28 days of your arrival back
Telephone 01423 565111
improperly performed as a result of failures attributable to a third party unconnected with
11. Passports, Visas, Immigration And Other Documentation Your specific passport and visa
technical problems with transport.
2 Grove Park Court, Harrogate, North Yorkshire HG1 4DP
10. Prompt Assistance Overseas If the contract we have with you is not performed or is
circumstances.
up to 100% of the cost of the product.
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
arrangements.
suppliers, for example (but not limited to) airlines, accommodation, rail or touring booking and these will apply in the event of a cancellation. These fees may be any amount
ASIA
mentioned herein or any airline whose services are used in the course of your travel
*In some circumstances higher cancellation fees may be applied by certain product products. Should this be the case you will be notified of such fees before confirming your
INSPIRED BY
at the time of going to press. It is not issued on behalf of and does not commit the airlines
manner with any relevant international convention. You can ask for copies of the transport companies’ contractual terms, or the international conventions, from us. Under EU law you have the right in some circumstances to refunds and/or compensation from your airline in case of denied boarding, delay or cancellation to flights. Full details of these rights are published at EU airports and available from the relevant airline. Your right to a refund and/
cover at the time of making your reservation. Your insurance must include cover for cancellation or curtailment of your holiday as well as the cost of repatriation in the event of accident or illness. It is your responsibility to arrange suitable and adequate travel insurance. 14. Accessibility We will use all endeavours to advise clients and their travel agents of any accessibility issues at any of the properties and tours we use. As far as possible, the quotation and travel documents will contain relevant information and where we are notified of such changes we will make every effort to advise you or your travel agent. However, should we not be notified or are unable to advise you or your travel agents, we cannot be held liable for such changes. 15. Data Protection In order to process your booking and to ensure that your travel arrangements run smoothly and meet your requirements, we need to use the information you provide (such as name, address, any special needs/dietary requirements etc.). We take full responsibility for ensuring that proper security measures are in place to protect your information. We must pass the information on to the relevant suppliers of your travel arrangements such as airlines, hotels, transport companies etc. The information may also be provided to public authorities such as customs/immigration if required by them, or as required by law. Additionally, as your holiday is outside of the European Economic Area, controls on data protection in your destination may not be as strong as the legal requirements in this country. We will not, however, pass any information onto any person not responsible for your travel arrangements or part thereof, subject to the above. This applies to any sensitive information that you or your agent gives us such as details of disabilities or dietary/religious requirements. If we are not permitted to pass such information to the relevant suppliers, we cannot provide your booking. In making this booking you consent to this information being passed on to the relevant person/s, company/ies or authority/ies. Please note that where information is also held by your travel agent, this is subject to your agent’s own data protection policy for which we cannot be held responsible. We will hold your information, where collected by us, and may use it to inform you in the future of offers, news, items of interest and brochures. If you do not wish to receive such approaches please advise us by email at info@inspiredbyasia.co.uk
or compensation from us is set out in clause 7. If any payments to you are due from us, any payment made by you to the airline will be deducted from this amount. If your airline
Published October 2017. Prices and Booking Conditions valid from 1 November 2017.
Brochure designed by Andrew Bogle. Printed by Focus All Media.
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Ask your travel agent for a copy of our Australia and New Zealand brochure.
INSPIRED BY
ASIA 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
ABTA No.Y6458
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INSPIRED BY ASIA
2 Grove Park Court, Harrogate, North Yorkshire HG1 4DP Telephone 01423 565111 • www.inspiredbyasia.co.uk
INSPIRED BY
ASIA
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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