Inspired by asia brochure 2014 by Geoff Johnson Design

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FAR EAST 2014

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

2 Grove Park Court, Harrogate, North Yorkshire HG1 4DP Telephone 01423 565111

www.inspiredbyasia.co.uk

INSPIRED BY ASIA

ABTA No.Y1862/V8887

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 Your contract is with Inspired By Asia, a division of The Curzon Corporation Ltd, a member of ABTA. 1. Your Booking Contract When you make a booking you guarantee that you have the authority to accept and do accept on behalf of your party the terms of these booking conditions. A contract will exist as soon as we issue our confirmation invoice. This contract is made on the terms of these booking conditions, which are governed by English Law, and the jurisdiction of the English Courts. You may however, choose the law and jurisdiction of Scotland or Northern Ireland if you wish to do so. 2. Your Financial Protection We provide full financial protection for our package holidays. When you buy an ATOL protected air holiday package from us 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 Air Travel Organiser’s Licence number 2949. In the unlikely event of our insolvency, the CAA will ensure that you are not stranded abroad and will arrange to refund any money you have paid to us for an advance booking. For further information visit the ATOL website at www.atol.org.uk 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 (ABTA Y1862). If you book arrangements other than a package from this brochure, your monies are protected by way of a bond held by ABTA. 3. ABTA We are a Member of ABTA, membership number Y1862. We are obliged to maintain a high standard of service to you by ABTA’s Code of Conduct. We can also offer you an arbitration scheme for the resolution of disputes arising out of, or in connection with this contract. The arbitration scheme is arranged by ABTA and administered independently. It provides for a simple and inexpensive method of arbitration on documents alone with restricted liability on you in respect of costs. The scheme does not apply to claims for an amount greater than £5,000 per person. There is also a limit of £25,000 per booking. Neither does it apply to claims which are solely in respect of physical injury or illness or their consequences. The scheme can however deal with compensation claims which include an element of minor injury or illness subject to a limit of £1,500 on the amount the arbitrator can award per person in respect of this element. Your request for arbitration must be received by ABTA within eighteen months of the date of return from holiday. Outside this time limit arbitration under the Scheme may still be available if we agree, but the ABTA Code does not require such agreement. For injury and illness claims, you can request the ABTA Mediation Procedure and we have the option to agree to mediation Further information on the Code and ABTA’s assistance in resolving disputes can be found on www.abta.com 4. Your Booking Price We reserve the right to alter the prices shown in the brochure. You will be advised of the current price of the arrangements that you wish to book before your contract is confirmed. When you make your booking you must pay a deposit of £300 per person or 10 percent of the holiday cost (whichever is the greater). For certain arrangements, especially extended overland tours, higher deposits may be required and you will be notified at the time of booking. The balance of the price of your travel arrangements must be paid at least 10 weeks before your departure date. If the deposit and/or balance is not paid in time, we shall cancel your travel arrangements. If the balance is not paid in time we shall retain your deposit. All monies you pay to the travel agent are held by him on our behalf at all times. Prices in the brochure were calculated using the following exchange rates as at 30 July 2013: THB 47.00, MYR 4.90, USD 1.53, SGD 1.94, HKD 11.80. Changes in transportation costs, including the cost of fuel, dues, taxes or fees chargeable for services such as landing taxes or embarkation or disembarkation fees at ports and airports and exchange rates mean that the price of your travel arrangements may change after you have booked. However there will be no change within 30 days of your departure. We will absorb and you will not be charged for any increase equivalent to 2% of the price of your travel arrangements, which excludes any amendment charges. You will be charged for the amount over and above that. If this means that you have to pay an increase of more than 10% of the price of your travel arrangements, you will have the option of accepting a change to another holiday if we are able to offer one (if this is of equivalent or higher quality you will not have to pay more but if it is of lower quality you will be refunded the difference in price), or cancelling and receiving a full refund of all monies paid, except for any amendment charges. Should you decide to cancel for this reason, you must exercise your right to do so within 14 days from the issue date printed on your final invoice. Should the price of your 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 due to contractual and other protection in place. 5. If You Change Your Booking If, after our confirmation invoice has been issued, you wish to change your travel arrangements in any way, for example your chosen departure date or accommodation, we will do our utmost to make these changes but it may not always be possible. Any request for changes to be made must be in writing from the person who made the booking or your travel agent. You will be asked to pay an administration charge of £30 per altered item, and any further cost we incur in making this alteration. You should be aware that these costs could increase the closer to the departure date that changes are made and you should contact us as soon as possible. Note: Certain travel arrangements (e.g. (but not limited to) air tickets, accommodation, rail or touring products) may not be changeable after a reservation has been made and any alteration request could incur a cancellation charge of up to 100% of that part of the arrangements. 6. If You Cancel Your Booking You, or any member of your party, may cancel your travel arrangements at any time. Written notification from the person who made the booking or your travel agent on your behalf must be received at our offices. Since we incur costs in cancelling your travel arrangements, you will have to pay the applicable cancellation charges up to the maximum shown in clause 7. Note: if the reason for your cancellation is covered under the terms of your insurance policy, you may be able to reclaim these charges.

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

2 Grove Park Court, Harrogate, North Yorkshire HG1 4DP Telephone 01423 565111

www.inspiredbyasia.co.uk

7. If We Change or Cancel Your Booking It is unlikely that we will have to make any changes to your travel arrangements, but we do plan the arrangements many months in advance. Occasionally, we may have to make changes and we reserve the right to do so at any time. Most of these changes will be minor and we will advise you or your travel agent of them at the earliest possible date. We also reserve the right in any circumstances to cancel your travel arrangements. For example, if the minimum number of clients required for a particular travel arrangement is not reached, we may have to cancel it. However, we will not cancel your travel arrangements less than 10 weeks before your departure date, except for reasons of force majeure or failure by you to pay the final balance. If we are unable to provide the booked travel arrangements, you can either have a refund of all monies paid or accept an offer of alternative travel arrangements of comparable standard

from us, if available (we will refund any price difference if the alternative is of a lower value). If it is necessary to cancel your travel arrangements, we will pay to you compensation as set out in this clause. Any changes to the actual airline after you have received your tickets will be notified to you as soon as possible and in all cases at check-in or at the boarding gate. Such a change is deemed to be a minor change. Other examples of minor changes include alteration of your outward/return flights by less than 12 hours, changes to aircraft type, change of accommodation to another of the same standard. If we make a major change to your booking, we will inform you or your travel agent as soon as reasonably possible if there is time before your departure. You will have the choice of either accepting the change of arrangements, accepting an offer of alternative travel arrangements of comparable standard from us if available (we will refund any price difference if the alternative is of a lower value), or cancelling your booking and receiving a full refund of all monies paid. In all cases, except where the major change arises due to reasons of force majeure, we will pay compensation as detailed below:* Period before departure within which notice of Cancellation or major change is received by us or notified to you More than 56 days 56-43 days 42-31 days 30–0 days

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

IF WE CANCEL YOUR HOLIDAY

IF YOU CANCEL YOUR HOLIDAY

Amount you will receive from us

MAXIMUM amount of cancellation charge*

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

Deposit Only 50% of holiday cost 75% of holiday cost 100% of holiday cost

The compensation that we offer does not exclude you from claiming more if you are entitled to do so. *In some circumstances higher cancellation fees may be applied by certain product suppliers e.g. (but not limited to) airlines, accommodation, rail or touring products. Should this be the case you will be notified of such fees before confirming your booking and these will apply in the event of a cancellation. These fees may be any amount up to 100% of the value of the product or booking value. Force Majeure: This means that we will not pay you compensation if we have to cancel or change your travel arrangements in any way because of unusual or unforeseeable circumstances beyond our control. These can include, for example, war, riot, industrial dispute, terrorist activity and its consequences, natural or nuclear disaster, fire, adverse weather conditions, epidemics and pandemics, unavoidable technical problems with transport. In accordance with EU Regulation 2111/2005 we are required to advise you of the actual carrier operating your flights. 8. If You Have A Complaint If you have a problem or any cause for complaint with your travel arrangements, please report it immediately directly to the supplier (e.g. the hotel manager), and as soon as possible bring it to the attention of our local representative / agent. They will try to rectify the problem at the time. If no representative/agent is available, or if they are unable to resolve the matter to your satisfaction, please refer to your travel documents for our contact details. If your complaint cannot be resolved locally having reported it, you must inform our representative/agent in writing whilst overseas and follow this up in writing to us within 28 days of your return home. If you fail to follow this procedure, we cannot accept responsibility for any problem or complaint that could have been rectified there and then had you notified us, the supplier or our representative/agent at the time. For all problems or complaints, failure to comply with this procedure may mean that your right to claim any compensation you may otherwise have been entitled to may be affected or lost as a result. 9. Our Liability to You If the contract we have with you is not performed or is improperly performed by us or our suppliers we will pay you appropriate compensation if this has affected the enjoyment of your travel arrangements. However we will not be liable where any failure in the performance of the contract is due to: you; or a third party unconnected with the provision of the travel arrangements and where the failure is unforeseeable or unavoidable; or unusual and unforeseeable circumstances beyond our control, the consequences of which could not have been avoided even if all due care had been exercised; or an event which we or our suppliers, even with all due care, could not foresee or forestall. Inspired by Asia does not accept any liability for any services or facilities which your hotel or any other supplier agrees to provide for you where the services or facilities are not advertised in our brochure and we have not agreed to arrange them. Excursions or other tours that you may choose to book or pay for whilst you are on holiday are not part of your package holiday provided by us. For any excursion or other tour that you book, your contract will be with the operator of the excursion or tour and not with us. We are not responsible for the provision of the excursion or tour or for anything that happens during the course of its provision by the operator. Our liability, except in cases involving death, injury or illness, shall be limited to a maximum of two times the cost of your travel arrangements. Our liability will also be limited in accordance with and/or in an identical manner with any relevant international convention. You can ask for copies of the transport companies' contractual terms, or the international conventions, from our offices in Harrogate. Under EU law (Regulation 261/2004) you have rights in some circumstances to refunds and/or compensation from your airline in cases of denied boarding, cancellation or delay to flights. Full details of these rights will be publicised at EU airports and will also be available from airlines. Your right to a refund and/or compensation from us is set out in clause 7. If any payments to you are due from us, any payment made to you by the airline will be deducted from this amount. If your airline does not comply with these rules you should complain to the Air Transport Users' Council on 020 7240 6061 www.auc.org.uk 10. Prompt Assistance Overseas If the contract we have with you is not performed or is improperly performed as a result of failures attributable to a third party unconnected with the provision of the services, or as a result of failures due to unusual and unforeseeable circumstances beyond our control, the consequences of which could not have been avoided even if all due care had been exercised, or an event which we or our suppliers, even with all due care, could not foresee or forestall, and you suffer an injury or other material loss, we will offer you such prompt assistance as is reasonable in the circumstances. This brochure is our responsibility, as your tour operator. It is not issued on behalf of, and does not commit the airlines mentioned herein or any airline whose services are used in the course of your travel arrangements. Please note that in accordance with Air Navigation Orders in order to qualify for infant status, a child must be under 2 years of age on the date of its return flight. Published 15 August 2013. Prices valid from January 2014. Booking conditions valid from 1 September 2013. Registered Office Milton House, 33a Milton Road, Hampton, Middlesex TW12 2LL.

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.

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

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CONTENTS INTRODUCTION 4 5 6 7

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

THAILAND

11 12 13 14 17 18 20 22 24 28 32 37 38 42 46 48 51 52 53 54 55

About Thailand Getting married in Thailand Eastern and Oriental Express Bangkok Beyond Bangkok Chiang Mai & Northern Thailand Best of Northern Thailand Tour Karen Hill Tribe Trek Hua Hin Koh Samui Phuket Best of Thailand Tour Khao Lak Khao Sok National Park Koh Lanta Krabi Phi Phi Islands Koh Phangan Koh Yao Koh Samet Koh Chang

MALAYSIA

59 60 62 63 64 67 70 72 74 77 80

About Malaysia Kuala Lumpur Best of Malaysia Tour Beyond Kuala Lumpur Penang Langkawi East Coast Malaysia City, Rainforest & Beach Tour Borneo Borneo Tours Pangkor

BALI

85 86 89 90 91

About Bali Bali Ubud Lombok and Gili Best of Bali Tour

92 95 96 97 98 99 100

INDOCHINA About Indochina Best of Indochina Tour Best of Vietnam Tour Best of Vietnam & Cambodia Tour Halong Bay Cruises Mekong Delta

101 102 104 106 108 110

Saigon - Angkor Wat Cruise Saigon Hanoi Hoi An and Danang Islands of Vietnam Angkor Wat

112

BURMA

115 116 117

About Burma Highlights of Burma Tour Best of Burma Tour

118

CHINA

121 122 123 124

About China Highlights of China Tour Best of China Tour Hong Kong

126

SINGAPORE

128

JAPAN

129

Best of Japan Tour

130 131

Visa Requirements Booking Conditions

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INSPIRED BY ASIA

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

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

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

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

We are fully bonded to give you peace of mind You can rest assured that the air holidays and flights in this brochure are ATOL protected by the Civil Aviation Authority under ATOL 2949, and for holidays which do not include air travel, your financial protection is administered by ABTA number Y1862/V8887. 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.

inspiredbyasia.co.uk

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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 locally-based 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.

INSPIRED BY ASIA

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

Passports, visas and health Most destinations require that you have at least six months remaining on your full passport and, if required a visa. For 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 hotelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s own wedding planner and our local representative, we can check every detail to make it a perfect event. Most of the hotels featured have honeymoon offers, too many to list here. Please call us for further details.

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

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

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

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S EA O F N O RTH K O R EA

Beijing

J A PA N

Seoul

J A PA N

SO U TH K O REA

Tokyo Kyoto

CHINA Shanghai

EAST CHINA SEA

Guilin

Hong Kong

PA C I F I C

Mandalay

OCEAN Bagan

Luang Prabang

SOUTH

Hanoi

BURMA Chiang Rai

CHINA

LAOS

SEA

Ngapali

Chiang Mai Hue Hoi An

Yangon

THAILAND Bangkok

Siem Reap

CAMBODIA GUL F OF T HAI L AND ANDAMAN

VIETNAM

Phnom Penh

Nha Trang Saigon

Koh Samui

SEA Phuket Langkawi

Kota Kinabalu

Penang

BR U N EI

M A L AY S I A

SA BA H

Kuala Lumpur Kuching

SA RAWA K

Singapore

BORNEO

I NDONE S I A

Jakarta

B A LI

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YOUR CHOICE OF AIRLINES

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

twice daily direct services from London to Bangkok, with convenient

airlines in the world. Emirates operates 16 daily flights

connections from Bangkok to over 70 destinations worldwide - including

from 6 UK airports; Heathrow, Gatwick, Manchester,

over 10 in Thailand. This year the airlines UK operation was further

Newcastle, Birmingham, and Glasgow. With such an

enhanced by the introduction of the fully

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

refurbished 747N aircraft.

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

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

Singapore Airlines has evolved into one of the most respected travel brands around the world. They have one of the world's youngest fleet in the air and a network spanning five continents. With non-stop flights from London Heathrow and a daily flight from Manchester with easy connections at Singapore's Changi airport, Singapore Airlines takes you to the heart of the Far East. Vietnam Airlines offer non-stop flights from London Gatwick to both Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi with onward connections in Indochina & South East Asia. Reducing journey times to Vietnam by as much as seven hours, the direct service brings one of Asiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most inspiring countries closer than ever. The airline operates on a 777-200ER aircraft configured with Economy, Economy Deluxe and Business Class.

INSPIRED BY ASIA

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THAILAND

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THAILAND

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

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

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

Chiang Rai Chiang Mai

THAILAND

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

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

°C 26 21 24 27 26 32

R 11 8 163 36 4 14

INSPIRED BY ASIA

Feb °C 28 23 25 28 27 33

R 28 6 37 38 14 34

Mar °C 29 26 25 29 28 34

R 31 15 50 74 16 42

Apr °C 30 29 28 29 30 35

R 72 45 88 127 26 67

May °C 30 29 27 28 30 34

R 189 153 151 297 118 148

Jun °C 29 28 27 28 30 33

R 152 136 76 264 71 140

Jul °C 29 27 27 28 29 32

R 158 167 126 216 104 137

Aug °C 28 27 27 28 29 32

R 188 227 103 244 81 109

Sep °C 28 27 26 28 28 32

R 320 251 102 328 82 229

Oct °C 28 26 26 28 28 32

R 231 132 228 315 201 145

Nov °C 27 24 26 27 27 32

R 57 44 432 193 202 32

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

THAILAND

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GETTING MARRIED & HONEYMOONS IN THAILAND

Thailand offers a rich and varied culture and many beautiful locations for a wedding. Getting married in Thailand can

Prior to Arrival You will need to complete the typed Affidavit Form and prepare all required original documents. Clients are required to send their completed Affidavit Form to Inspired by Asia for review before arrival.

be a wonderful thing, especially when you have the authorities on your side. Inspired by Asia in conjunction with Asia World will help to arrange all legal matters and administrative details for clients of any nationality who wish to get married in Thailand. By staying a few working days in Bangkok, you can ensure that all legal procedures are covered. Asia World will help you prepare all the documentation prior to your arrival, and until the wedding procedures are finalised and legalised. Once married we can arrange your wedding celebration in most Thai beach locations.

Bangkok itinerary You will need to have at least 3 working days in Bangkok. We recommend the Dusit Thani Bangkok as an ideal location during your stay as it is relatively close to the offices you need to visit. See page 16 for details and prices. Ideally you should stay for 4 nights. Day 1 At 8am you will be met in the lobby of your hotel and transferred to the British Embassy to sign the Affirmation Form. Day 2 At 8am you will be picked up at your hotel and transferred to the British Embassy to collect your passports and Affirmation Form. A nearby certified translation office will translate the Affirmation Form into Thai, then you will be transferred to the Thai Ministry of Foreign Affairs to authenticate the documents. You will register the marriage at the Thai District Office and wait for the Sworn & Unite documents from the British Embassy. Day 3 Asia World will pick up the Sworn & Unite documents and deliver this and all other documents to your hotel. Documents Required 1. Original passports 2. Original Divorce Certificate or Death Certificate of former spouse (Only for a Divorcee or Widow/ Widower) 3. Completed, typed Affidavit Form (to be signed at the British Embassy) Price from £460 per person.

THAILAND

Wedding celebration Once you are married we can arrange the wedding service. We have a range of outstanding beachside hotels that can host your wedding. They all offer a variety of packages and can perform the service as a Western ceremony or a Thai ceremony. A typical wedding package includes the following (prices are approximately £1900 per couple but vary depending on your choice of hotel. Price excludes accommodation): • Your personal wedding planner including consultation and pre-wedding meeting prior to the wedding date • Wedding Celebrant • Pre-consultation with your Wedding Celebrant prior to the wedding day • Secluded Beach for the Wedding Ceremony • Decoration of the secluded wedding beach with tropical flowers, floral arch, walking aisle and accessories • Bouquet for the bride with your own choice of local seasonal flowers • Buttonhole for the groom • Sparkling wine for the Bride & Groom for toasting • Decorated flower tray for the wedding rings • The planting of a baby coconut tree ceremony • In-room honeymoon floral decoration after your wedding • A bottle of sparkling wine served in your room on the night of your wedding • Hair/make up service • Photographer

Honeymoons Inspired by Asia can arrange your ideal honeymoon from 5 nights to 15 nights in a superb range of hotels that offer idyllic locations.

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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 compartments, delicious cuisine and superb service, this is a truly unique way to experience the full wonder of this remarkable region. Prices include a luxury air-

3 DAY SINGAPORE TO BANGKOK

4 DAY BANGKOK TO SINGAPORE

From the elegance of Singapore to the excitement of Bangkok, take an unforgettable rail journey through the heart of SE Asia. Visit colonial Georgetown, Fort Cornwallis and the infamous River Kwai.

Travel through Bangkok, past the legendary River Kwai and onwards to Malaysia. Enjoy the sights of colonial Georgetown and Fort Cornwallis.

Day 1 Singapore Depart Woodland Railway Station and settle into your cabin as the train enters Malaysia via the causeway of the Straits of Johor. Dinner is served in one of the opulent dining cars. Spend a relaxing evening in the Bar Car in the company of our resident pianist. Disembark for a stroll when the train pauses at Kuala Lumpur’s magnificent Moorish-style station. Retire to your cabin which has been transformed into a cosy bedroom.

conditioned cabin with en suite facilities, all table d’hôte meals on board and sightseeing tours. Dates of departure on request.

THAILAND Bangkok

Penang

M A L AY S I A Kuala Lumpur

Singapore

INSPIRED BY ASIA

Day 2 Penang At the mainline station, disembark for the crossing to Penang. Enjoy a guided tour of colonial Georgetown. Board the coach for the return crossing then lunch on board. As the train crosses into Thailand, spend the afternoon watching the changing scenery from the open deck of the Observation Car or relax in the Bar Car. Day 3 River Kwai & Bangkok After breakfast, the train arrives at the River Kwai Bridge Station. Alight here for a cruise along the picturesque Kwai Yai River, while a local historian provides a brief history of the Thailand-Burma railway and bridge. Take a coach to the Thailand-Burma Railway Centre with time to visit the Don Rak Cemetery. Rejoin the coach back to Kanchanaburi Station, where the journey continues with lunch on board. Arrive into Bangkok late afternoon. Price from £1560 per person, based on twin share.

Day 1 Bangkok Depart Bangkok and settle into your private cabin as the scenery changes from city to countryside. Dinner is served in one of the luxurious dining cars. Retire to your cabin which has been transformed into a cosy bedroom. Day 2 River Kwai After breakfast, the train arrives at the River Kwai Bridge Station. Alight here for a cruise along the picturesque Kwai Yai River, while a local historian provides a brief history of the Thailand-Burma railway and bridge. Take a coach to the Thailand-Burma Railway Centre with time to visit the Don Rak Cemetery. Rejoin the coach back to Kanchanaburi Station, where the journey continues with dinner on board. Day 3 Penang At the mainline station, disembark for the crossing to Penang. Enjoy a guided tour of colonial Georgetown. Board the coach for the return crossing. As the train crosses into Thailand, spend the afternoon watching the changing scenery from the open deck of the Observation Car or relax in the Bar Car. Dinner is served. Day 4 Singapore After breakfast, disembark at Singapore’s Woodlands Station.

Price from £1560 per person, based on twin share.

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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 £21 per person.

(canals) and floating market. Dinner on an outside deck of a cruise on the Chao Phraya River is a relaxing way to see the city skyline and riverside activity. Further afield we offer tours to the infamous River Kwai and historic ancient city of Ayuthaya.

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

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

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

Bangkok is like no other city in the world,

Dusit Zoo King Chulalongkorn Statue

a discovery for even the most seasoned National Gallery

of travellers. Ancient golden temples,

National Museum

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

Wat Arun

sights by river bus or tuk-tuk, browse

Chao

Ph ray a

ver Ri

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

Suanpakkard Palace

Grand Palace

towering skyscrapers and bustling open-

7 1

King Taksin Statue

colourful nightlife.

BANGKOK 2 5

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BANGKOK Hotels

★★★★★

THE LEBUA AT STATE TOWER

SHANGRI-LA HOTEL BANGKOK

The Lebua at State Tower is an all-suite five star luxury hotel in Bangkok. Located at the riverside in the second tallest tower in Bangkok, all the spacious suites offer enchanting views of the city and the Chao Phraya River from large balconies, a unique feature for a Bangkok luxury hotel. Choose from one, two and three bedroomed luxury suites. Facilities include a spectacular rooftop bar and choice of restaurants, a fitness centre and an outdoor swimming pool.

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

Offer Free room upgrade when booking in advance. Dates vary.

Offer Free breakfast when staying 3 nights or more, 1 Apr – 31 Oct 14.

Prices from £83 per person per night, including breakfast daily.

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

★★★★

★★★★★

ARIYASOM VILLA

MILLENNIUM HILTON BANGKOK

This boutique, family-owned hotel echoes 1940s Bangkok but with modern amenities. Located in Sukhumvit Soi 1 just 500 metres from a skytrain station, the hotel has been designed and appointed with quality materials - old re-cycled teak floors, antique reproduction furniture, and Thai silk drapes. There are 24 beautifully appointed rooms. Facilities include an outdoor pool, a spa, library and vegetarian and seafood restaurant. Relax in lush tropical gardens providing a relief from the city.

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

Offer Receive a 10% discount for stays of 5 nights or more, year round.

Offer Receive a 10% earlybird discount. Dates vary. Call for details.

Prices from £67 per person per night, including breakfast daily.

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

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BANGKOK Hotels

★★★★★

★★★★

ANANTARA BANGKOK RIVERSIDE RESORT

SHAMA SUKHUMVIT

With its classical Thai architecture, lush gardens and cool river breezes the Anantara Bangkok Riverside Resort & Spa offers all the tranquility of a resort. Enjoy the wonderful river frontage with fragrant gardens. Take the free hotel shuttle boat 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.

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

Offer Discounted prices when booking in advance. Dates vary.

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

Prices from £50 per person per night, based on room only.

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

★★★★★

DUSIT THANI BANGKOK

★★★★

BEL-AIRE BANGKOK

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

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

Offer Receive 3 nights for the price of 2 nights, 1 Apr – 31 Oct 14.

Offer Receive 3 nights for the price of 2. 1 Apr – 31 Oct 14.

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

Prices from £32 per person per night, room only.

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BEYOND BANGKOK Tours

2 DAY LUXURY RICE BARGE CRUISE Take an enchanting cruise along the historical Chao Phraya River, cruising between Bangkok and the ancient capital of Ayuthaya, staying overnight alongside a traditional Buddhist temple. Once a rice barge, this exotic boat is now a floating, boutique hotel. Air-conditioned cabin. Includes all meals. Upstream cruise departs Bangkok every Tuesday and Thursday. Note this cruise is available starting or finishing in Bangkok. Day 1 Bangkok to Ayuthaya Depart at 1.30pm and cruise up the Chao Phraya River with spectacular views of the Grand Palace and Temple of Dawn. Just after sunset the boat docks by a Thai temple set in a tranquil rural village. A candle-lit dinner is served on the deck. Overnight in your air-conditioned cabin which is immaculately appointed with a double bed and a private western-style bathroom.

Day 2 Ayuthaya to Bangkok After breakfast on board head for Bang-Pa-In where your English speaking guide will take you to the Summer Palace. Travel by long tail boat to the ancient capital of Ayuthaya to visit the archaeological site of this once glorious capital. After a local lunch return to Bangkok by road. Prices from £299 per person, based on twin share.

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2 DAY RIVER KWAI TOUR Enjoy the historic sights of the River Kwai region on this two day tour. The scenery is impressive with jungle-covered hills, spectacular gorges and beautiful river views. Stay in style in The Float House River Kwai. Choose from taking this tour as part of a group or on a private basis. Air-conditioned vehicle. Includes all meals. Day 1 Bangkok – Kanchanaburi – River Kwai Early morning pick-up from your Bangkok hotel. Arrive in Kanchanaburi. Visit the ThailandBurma Railway Centre Museum, the War Cemetery and the Bridge over the River Kwai.Take a long tail boat to The Float House River Kwai,

(pictured, below) passing by unspoiled mountainous jungle scenery. Lunch is served. Take an exciting boat ride upstream to the nearby ethnic Mon Tribal Village. After dinner a short dance presentation.

Day 2 River Kwai – Bangkok After breakfast travel downsteam by boat before visiting the Hellfire Pass Memorial. Lunch, then an historic ride on the Death Railway Train, passing lush forest. Continue to Bangkok. Prices from £199 per person, based on twin share.

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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. An elephant-back ride through the lush jungle is a pleasant way to experience the spectacular scenery.

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 CHIANG MAI

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

Municipality Stadium

superb views. This culturally significant city features historic temples, markets and an

3 Wat Chiang Man

interesting old walled town. Further north is Chiang Rai and the Golden Triangle. An area home to several hill tribes with

Thai Tribal Crafts

Old Thai Public Library

Wat Phra Singh

Tourist Office

Wat Chedi Luang

Night Bazaar

fascinating ways of life.

2 Museum

Prince Kavila Monument

Thipanet Market Police

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CHIANG MAI Hotels

★★★★★

RACHAMANKHA

THE CHEDI CHIANG MAI

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

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

Offer Earlybird discounts apply. Offer dates vary, call for details.

Prices from £78 per person per night, including breakfast daily.

Prices from £87 per person per night, including breakfast daily.

★★★★

KANTARY HILLS HOTEL

TAMARIND VILLAGE CHIANG MAI

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

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.

Offer Receive 3 nights for the price of 2. 16 Apr – 31 Oct 14.

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

Prices from £32 per person per night, including breakfast daily.

Prices from £51 per person per night, including breakfast daily.

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THE BEST OF NORTHERN THAILAND 6 Day Private Tour

Begin your Northern Thailand tour in the heart of the Golden Triangle with a 2 night stay at the remarkable Anantara Resort. Visit the city of Chiang Rai on the Kok River before finishing with two nights in Chiang Mai, blessed with stunning mountain scenery and historic temples.

Includes • 5 nights hotel accommodation • Breakfast daily and other meals as shown • Private touring with English-speaking guide • Air-conditioned vehicle Day 1 Arrive Chiang Rai Met on arrival at Chiang Rai airport and privately transferred north to the Anantara Golden Triangle Resort and Spa for a two night stay. All meals included and one activity per day from a choice of elephant bathing/feeding, a spa treatment, a cooking class or a visit to the Opium Museum.

This is a private tour with first class accommodation throughout, and the services of an Englishspeaking guide. Flights are not included. Departs daily.

BURMA Golden Triangle Chiang Rai

LAOS

Chiang Mai

Day 2 Anantara Golden Triangle Full day to enjoy the facilities and activities at this hotel. Day 3 Golden Triangle touring Visit the village of Doi Mae Salong, set high amidst magnificent mountainous scenery. Visit the hill tribe villages of Yao and Akha before continuing to the northern-most border trading town of Mai Sai. Here you can shop for interesting items from Thailand and Burma. Stay 1 night at the Legend Chiang Rai Resort including breakfast. Day 4 Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai Visit a Long Neck Hill Tribe Village and Shan Village then enjoy a long-tailed boat ride on the Mae Kok

River. After lunch continue on to Chiang Mai, visit a Buddhist shrine and an elaborate cave network where local guides take you into the cool inner caves. Stay at The Chedi for 2 nights. Day 5 Chiang Mai touring Today join a tour that will take you up into the mountains, to the acclaimed temple Wat Phrathad Doi Suthep. Built in A.D.384 and situated at 3500 feet above sea level, this is a significant temple with panoramic views of the city. After lunch continue on to San Kampaeng and Bo-Sang Village. These locations are renowned for their local cottage industries and handicrafts. Day 6 Depart Chiang Mai Morning at leisure before your private transfer to Chiang Mai Airport to end your tour.

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Price from £1089 per person, based on twin share.

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GOLDEN TRIANGLE

★★★★★

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 riding an elephant through bamboo jungle along the border of Burma.

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

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

Golden Triangle 2 Day Tour Includes 1 night 3 Country View accommodation, dinner on day one, breakfast and lunch on day two, house wine and local beer with meals, minibar, one time visit to the Opium Museum, a daily activity choice of a spa treatment, elephant training (including riding, feeding and bathing an elephant), a 3 country tour and a cooking class.

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

Offer Receive a 15% discount off the price when booking at least 90 days in advance. Dates of validity vary. Call for details.

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

Prices from £325 per person based on twin share.

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KAREN HILL TRIBE TREK 4 Day Private Tour

This trekking tour has the luxury of a Mountain Lodge with your own private chalet next to a crystal clear river and an overnight in a Karen Hill Tribe Village with a stunning location. Hike to visit hill tribe mountain villagers going about their daily lives. An authentic experience there are no hill tribe shops selling trinkets - this private tour offers an enriching and emotional experience with a good insight into Karen hill tribe life. Flights not included.

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Includes • 3 nights basic accommodation • 3 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 3 dinners • 4WD air-conditioned vehicle • English-speaking guide Day 1 Chiang Mai to Musikee Eco Lodge Morning pick up from your Chiang Mai hotel then head northwest to Wat Chan for a visit to a local market. Continue to the mountains and visit Baan Wat Chan, home of the Karen Hill Tribe people for over a century. Trek for an hour to Musikee Eco Lodge (pictured, bottom left). Your private chalet includes first class bedding and a bathroom with hot water. Relax surrounded by forest, mountains and streams. In the afternoon explore rice fields or swim in the crystal clear mountain river. After dinner a cultural show will be given by the young hill tribe people. Sit around a log fire before retiring to bed. Day 2 Karen Hill Tribe After breakfast a 3 hour trek through jungle and along streams to the elephant camp. After lunch swim in a mountain waterfall pool then enjoy a 90minute elephant ride through the jungle. Continue with a short walk to the Karen Hill Tribe Lodge (pictured, above right). Enjoy a barbecue before staying the night in your own private room (not air-conditioned, shared bathroom). This property features a stunning

location overlooking a rice field valley with a mountain stream filled with glittering fish. Day 3 Karen Hill Tribe After breakfast a one hour trek to Baan Houy Ya-Nai, where a traditional Karen Hill Tribe ceremony awaits you. Observe daily life in the village. Continue to the Royal Project Baan Sao Dang before a short visit to a Hill Tribe school and a cooking demonstration. Return to the Karen Hill Tribe Lodge. Day 4 Karen Hill Tribe to Chiang Mai A onehour drive to Houy Duang National Park where you will visit Thailand’s largest geyser. Then drive through spectacular mountain scenery to visit Mok Fha where you can swim. Return to Chiang Mai at around 4.30pm to complete your tour.

Prices from £449 per person, based on twin share.

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HUA HIN Travel Hua Hin is located approximately 106 miles from Bangkok. We can arrange for you to be met on arrival at Bangkok Airport for an immediate private car transfer to your Hua Hin accommodation, from £40 per person. There are flights from Bangkok to Hua Hin, but the service is unpredictable, so we recommend a land transfer.

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. The railway station is worth a

Hua Hin is closely associated with Thai

BANGKOK

★

Airport

Hua Hin

royalty and located on the sunrise side of the Thai Gulf, some three hours south2

west of Bangkok. Essentially Hua Hin is a

GULF

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

attractions nearby such as national parks

THAILAND

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

HUA HIN

Station Hua Hin Royal Temple Hua Hin Golf Course

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HUA HIN Hotels

★★★★★

CENTARA GRAND BEACH RESORT & VILLAS HUA HIN Experience the luxury of an exquisite colonialstyle 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. It was the building of the railway line that spurred the development of the little fishing village of Hua Hin into a playground for Thailand’s aristocracy in the 1920s. 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

Offer Receive up to 7 nights free, 1 Apr – 31 Oct 2014.

modern technology that detoxifies and remineralises the body and soothes the mind. Choice of 5 restaurants, a café and bar.

Prices Prices from £82 per person per night, including breakfast daily.

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HUA HIN Hotels

ANANTARA HUA HIN RESORT & SPA ★★★★★

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

CAPE NIDHRA HOTEL ★★★★★

Characterised by its impeccable service and elegant accommodation, the hotel has been described as “one of the most distinctive in Hua Hin”. Perched on the shores of Hua Hin’s breathtaking beach, the hotel offers easy access to the seaside town’s street markets, shopping, restaurants and nightlife. Each room at the stunning new Cape Nidhra Hotel has a private pool. Facilities include a fine dining restaurant, rooftop bar, fitness centre, pool, sauna, spa and water sports. Offer Receive up to 4 nights free, 16 Apr – 31 Oct 14. Prices from £71 per person per night, including breakfast daily.

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HUA HIN Hotels

INTERCONTINENTAL HUA HIN RESORT ★★★★★

Inspired by the Summer Palace built by King Rama VI, the InterContinental Hua Hin Resort is perfectly located on prime beachfront along Petchakasem Road. The resort has 119 rooms, three beachfront villas with private plunge pools, a range of suites and La Residence Hua Hin. Golfers will want to play a round at the one of the area's spectacular courses, including Black Mountain and Banyan Golf Course. Superb beachside pool, fitness centre, a Spa, a Kids Club and a choice of bars and restaurants. Offer Receive 7 nights for the price of 6. Offer dates vary, call for details. Prices from £62 per person per night, including breakfast daily.

DUSIT THANI HUA HIN ★★★★★

Commanding an unspoilt beachfront location, the Dusit Thani Hua Hin combines sumptuous comfort with traditional Thai style. An ornamental lake, lily pond and tropical gardens flank a magnificent swimming pool. 296 rooms offer panoramic views of the sea, gardens or pool. Hotel facilities include two pools, a children’s pool, a fitness centre, horse riding, tennis courts, squash courts, sauna, steam room, Jacuzzi and spa. Excellent choice of bars and restaurants. Shuttle bus to Hua Hin (fee).Free WiFi. Offer Receive 8 nights for the price of 4, 1 Apr – 31 Oct 2014. Prices from £57 per person per night, based on room only.

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KOH SAMUI

★

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

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

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

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

Bophut Beach

3 4

developed than Phuket. Koh Samui

Life is lived at a gentle pace and although the

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

6 Big Buddha

Airport Na Thon Town

KOH SAMUI

Ch aw en gB ea ch

BANGKOK

Travel Koh Samui is well served with flights from Bangkok, Krabi, Chiang Mai, Phuket as well as Singapore and Hong Kong. The flying time from Bangkok is 60 minutes. We can arrange for you to be met on arrival and privately transferred to your Samui accommodation, from £17 per person.

Namuang Waterfall Lamai Beach

quiet and unspoilt and offers beautiful sandy beaches.

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KOH SAMUI Hotels

SALA SAMUI RESORT & SPA ★★★★★

SALA Samui is a stunning pool villa boutique resort, located on 80 metres of pristine white sandy beach on the north-east tip of the island, just ten minutes from Koh Samui Airport. Featuring the luxury of a private pool in 53 of a total of 69 villas and suites, the resort offers stylish and comfortable accommodation. SALA Samui boasts two beachfront pools, including a 25-metre lap pool surrounded by four massage salas floating in a beautiful lotus pond. Spa, gym, library, beach bar and two restaurants. Offer Receive up to a 15% earlybird discount. Call for details. Prices from £79 per person per night, including breakfast daily.

ZAZEN BOUTIQUE RESORT & SPA ★★★★★

The charming Zazen Boutique Resort & Spa occupies an idyllic spot in the north of Koh Samui. Intimate and relaxed, the 26-room resort sits beside the white sand beach of Bophut, overlooking the clear azure water. Distinctive bungalows are set amongst a verdant tropical garden and offer quality furnishings combined with hi tech in-room entertainment. The restaurant is renowned as one of the best on the island. Facilities include a pool and spa. Offer Receive a 10% discount on food and beverage when staying 10 nights. Dates vary. Prices from £61 per person per night, including breakfast daily.

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KOH SAMUI Hotels

BO PHUT RESORT & SPA ★★★★

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 £68 per person per night, including breakfast daily.

BANDARA RESORT & SPA ★★★★★

The Bandara Resort and Spa offers a great location set on the beachfront at popular Bo Phut beach, on the north coast of Koh Samui. Set in extensive tropical gardens it offers space and serenity with the lively Fisherman’s Village, with its range of bars, cafes and restaurants, nearby. Accommodation comes in a range of deluxe hotel rooms and villas. Facilities include 4 pools including a kids’ pool, watersports, spa, restaurant, lobby bar and beachfront bar. Offer Receive up to 4 nights free. Dates vary. Call for details. Prices from £53 per person per night, including breakfast daily.

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KOH SAMUI Hotels

AMARI PALM REEF SAMUI ★★★★★

The Amari Palm Reef Samui is set on Chaweng beach, but at the quieter more secluded northern end of Samui’s most popular stretch of coastline. With elegant Thai-style buildings, divided by a small road, set either on the beach or in tropical gardens, this boutique resort offers 188 spacious Thai-style rooms with either a balcony or terrace. Guests can enjoy two free-form swimming pools, a kids’ pool, a jacuzzi, the fitness centre, a spa, watersports and a PADI dive centre. Two bars and two restaurants. Offer Receive up to 6 nights free. Offer dates vary. Call for details. Prices from £63 per person per night, including breakfast daily.

MELATI BEACH RESORT & SPA ★★★★★

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 4 nights free. Offer dates vary, call for details. Prices from £83 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 10-60 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.

BANGKOK

★

Airport

3 4

Bang Tao Beach

PHUKET

Patong Beach

7 Karon Beach

5 1 2

Phuket Town

8 6

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

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

Khao Lak

magnificent coves and Phuket

bays, palm-fringed

beaches and numerous sparkling islands. Phuket is also the gateway to numerous island resorts dotted throughout the Andaman Sea.

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PHUKET Hotels

THE SHORE AT KATATHANI ★★★★★

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, 1 Apr – 31 Oct 14. Prices from £201 per person per night, including breakfast daily.

KATATHANI PHUKET BEACH RESORT ★★★★★

The Katathani Phuket Beach Resort is a popular, well established hotel facing 850 metres of unspoilt white sandy beach in secluded Kata Noi Bay, just a 20 minute drive south of Patong. There are two wings but we offer the Junior Suites in the deluxe Thani Wing, all with full or partial sea views from a private balcony/terrace. It’s just a short stroll across the lush gardens to the beachfront. Facilities include six pools, three jacuzzis, spa, two fitness centres, tennis, games room, library, bars and six restaurants. Offer Receive up to 7 nights free, 1 Apr – 31 Oct 14. Prices from £78 per person per night, including breakfast daily.

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PHUKET Hotels

OUTRIGGER LAGUNA PHUKET BEACH RESORT ★★★★★

The resort occupies a prime position on the famed Bang Tao beach where white sand and calm, clear waters combine to create an idyllic tropical setting. The absolute beachfront location provides easy access to beach activities for families and couples alike. Rooms offer lagoon or sea views. Facilities include a water park with a waterslide and kids pool. Kids club, fitness centre, tennis court, scuba diving, spa and choice of two bars and two restaurants. Offer 10% reduction when booking in advance. Call for details. Prices from £50 per person per night, including breakfast daily.

DUSIT THANI LAGUNA PHUKET ★★★★★

The Dusit Thani Laguna is a beach front resort with a 200-metre white sandy beach, set on beautiful Laguna Phuket Bang Tao Bay, Asia’s first integrated resort development, located on the west coast of Phuket. It is 30 minutes drive south of Phuket International Airport and half an hour north of Patong Beach. Facilities include an excellent swimming pool, bars and restaurants. Guests staying in the Laguna complex have access to the full range of other hotel facilities, providing unparalleled choice. Offer Receive up to 2 nights free. Offer dates vary. Call for details. Prices from £61 per person per night, including breakfast daily.

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PHUKET Hotels

MOM TRI’S VILLA ROYALE ★★★★★

Mom Tri’s Villa Royale is a boutique hotel situated on a headland overlooking the Andaman Sea and the white sand beach of Kata Noi beach. Here you’ll find a wide selection of bars and restaurants nearby, all facing one of Phuket’s finest beaches. There are 40 luxurious suites (some with private pools) which all feature panoramic sea views amidst the lush gardens. A private path leads to the sandy white beach. Facilities include 3 pools, fitness room, spa, library, bar and restaurant. Offer Receive a 10% discount when staying 12 nights or more. Year round. Prices from £83 per person per night including breakfast daily.

THE VIJITT RESORT ★★★★★

The Vijitt Resort Phuket is an all villa-style resort set in 18 acres facing a 250 metre sandy beach in Rawai in south-east Phuket, with stunning views across Chalong Bay. Guests seeking something a little different will appreciate this resort. The 92 stand-alone villas vary in style and size, some with private pools (private pool villa pictured) and all within a beautifully landscaped natural setting. Facilities include two pools, spa, gym, a kids’ club and non-motorised watersports. Two restaurants with terraces and sea views. Offer Receive up to a 25% earlybird discount. Dates vary, call for details. Prices from £75 per person per night, including breakfast daily.

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PHUKET Hotels

CENTARA GRAND BEACH RESORT PHUKET ★★★★★

The Centara Grand Beach Resort Phuket is located at the most secluded area of Karon Beach, with direct beach access and backing onto lush green hills. The architectural design of the resort takes its inspiration from the classical Sino-Portuguese style that was brought to Phuket in the nineteenth century, and the property is set in a landscaped water park with a lazy river and four swimming pools. Choice of bars and restaurants. Offer Receive up to 7 nights free. Dates vary call for details. Prices from £98 per person per night including breakfast daily.

CAPE PANWA HOTEL ★★★★

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 four 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 playroom and pool, spa, watersports, fitness centre, five restaurants and five bars and regular trips to nearby Coral Island. Offer Receive up to 10 nights free. Offer dates vary. Call for details. Prices from £40 per person per night, including breakfast daily.

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THE BEST OF THAILAND 15 Day Private Tour

Experience the best that Thailand has to offer. Feel a part of the hustle and bustle of Bangkok, witness the serenity and beauty

Includes • 14 nights hotel accommodation • Breakfast daily • Private airport transfers • City tours Bangkok and Chiang Mai • English-speaking guide

of Chiang Mai and the north, and finally relax on the sandy beaches of Phuket in the south. This is a private tour so you won’t be travelling in a group. Choice of standard or superior accommodation. Departs daily. Flights not included.

Day 1 Arrive Bangkok You will be met on arrival at Bangkok Airport and transferred to your chosen accommodation (Standard: The Bel-Aire Princess; Superior: The Dusit Thani Hotel.) Day 2 City and Temples Tour A perfect introduction to Bangkok. Enjoy a half-day tour that includes three of the top temples in Bangkok. Even if you don’t experience any more of Bangkok’s 400 temples, you’ll have seen the pick of them. Departs daily at approximately 8.30am or 1pm. Day 3 Bangkok at leisure Full day at leisure.

Chiang Mai

THAILAND BANGKOK

★

Day 4 Bangkok to Chiang Mai Morning at your leisure before your transfer to Bangkok Airport for your flight to Chiang Mai (not included). You will be met on arrival at Chiang Mai and transferred to your chosen accommodation (Standard: Kantary Hills Hotel; Superior: The Tamarind Village.) Rest of the day at leisure. Day 5 City Tour of Chiang Mai A half-day tour to see the famous city temples of Chiang Mai. Departs daily at either approximately 8.30am returning 12.30pm, or 1.30pm returning 5pm. Day 6 Chiang Mai at leisure Full day at leisure.

Phuket

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

(flight not included). You will be met on arrival and transferred to your accommodation (Standard: Cape Panwa; Superior: Katathani, in a Junior Suite). Days 8 - 14 Phuket at leisure A week on the beach in Phuket. Enjoy the facilities of your hotel and the beautiful beaches. Day 15 Depart Phuket Time at your leisure before your transfer to the airport and flight to Bangkok (not included) to complete your itinerary. Prices from £479 per person, based on standard hotels twin share. From £699 per person based on superior hotels twin share.

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KHAO LAK

BANGKOK

★

Khao Lak is an area of outstanding beauty. Pure white beaches, cascading waterfalls,

Khao Lak

spectacular primary Phuket

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 natural mangrove ecosystems.

THAILAND

Travel Khao Lak is accessed with flights via Phuket Airport, located one hour 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.

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KHAO LAK hotels

THE SAROJIN ★★★★★

The Sarojin is an award winning boutique luxury beach resort located on an 11 km secluded white sand beach, surrounded by 5 national parks and the famous Similan Islands dive sanctuaries. The Sarojin is renowned for its service suiting couples looking for a relaxing break or luxurious honeymoons. All 56 guest rooms are spacious with king-size beds, luxurious bathrooms with intimate couples baths. Facilities include 2 restaurants, 2 bars, wine cellar, private dining, spa, gym, luxury boat. No children under 10. Offer Receive a 50% discount for 2 night stays 16 Apr – 31 Oct 14. Prices from £148 per person per night, including breakfast daily.

CASA DE LA FLORA ★★★★★

The Casa De La Flora is located directly on the beautiful, palm-fringed beach of Khao Lak, just a onehour drive, by car from Phuket International Airport. This ultimate design resort with stunning Andaman views as well as its friendly service features cutting-edge architecture and unique design amid tropical nature. There are 36 cube shaped private pool villas, some with beachfront locations. Facilities include a restaurant, pool, pool bar, library and spa. Offer Receive up to 7 nights free. Dates vary. Call for details. Prices from £183 per person per night, including breakfast daily.

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KHAO LAK hotels

THE SANDS BY KATATHANI ★★★★

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, three bars and two restaurants, a fitness centre, spa and Thai cooking classes. Nearby La On Village hosts a wide array of bars and restaurants for dining out. Spacious rooms offer a balcony or terrace with ceiling fan and day bed. Offer Receive up to 8 nights free 1 Apr – 31 Oct 14. Prices from £39 per person per night, including breakfast daily.

LE MERIDIEN KHAO LAK BEACH & SPA RESORT ★★★★★

Unwind by the resort’s seven-mile long stretch pristine beach or by one of three swimming pools, including a lagoon style pool by the beach, a family pool with waterslides and fountains, and an adultsonly spa pool. There are plenty of activities ranging from Thai boxing lessons to workouts in the gym to tennis, jungle trekking or scuba diving lessons to white-water rafting. Facilities include a spa, kids club, fitness centre, lounge bar and choice of six restaurants. Offer Receive a 10% earlybird discount when booking in advance. Call for details. Prices from £40 per person per night, based on twin share.

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KHAO LAK hotels

THE BRIZA BEACH RESORT KHAO LAK ★★★★

Recently renovated and with a range of beautiful rooms across 2 low rise buildings, the Briza Beach Resort Khao Lak enjoys an enviable location directly on one of the most beautiful beaches in southern Thailand. With the Resort offering 2 pools, 2 restaurants and 3 bars including a beach bar, Briza Beach Resort Khao Lak offers a tranquil & laid back environment; all this just 10 minutes from the relaxed hustle & bustle of Khao Lak. Offer Receive up to 4 nights free 1 Apr – 31 Oct 14. Prices from £25 per person per night, including breakfast daily.

LA FLORA RESORT & SPA ★★★★

The elegant and boutique La Flora Resort and Spa is located right on a golden sandy beach, just an hour’s drive from Phuket Airport. Offering 138 guest rooms (Deluxe room pictured), including 13 exclusive villas, pool access and deluxe rooms, all with a contemporary Asian style set in low rise buildings spaced throughout the gardens. Hotel facilities include an infinity-edged swimming pool, a free-form swimming pool, a kids’ pool, watersports, a fitness centre, tennis, a spa and a beachfront restaurant. Offer Receive up to 10 nights free. Offer dates vary. Call for details. Prices from £46 per person per night, including breakfast daily.

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KHAO SOK NATIONAL PARK

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

Khao Sok National Park in south Thailand is a spectacular place to

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

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

Rainforest Camp

Koh Samui Surat Thani

Elephant Hills Main Camp

Khao Lak

Phuket

Krabi

THAILAND

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

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

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

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KHAO SOK NATIONAL PARK

Elephant Hills is Thailandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s first luxury jungle camp combining the experience of an African Safari with a Thai Forest setting. The scenery is dramatic; jungle covered limestone peaks and a forest with an array of animals and plants. Accommodation is in 30 luxurious tents, all with an en suite bathroom. The tents are spacious and well protected against mosquitoes and other intruders. There is an attractive restaurant, a log fire to sit around with drinks and a swimming pool. The new Rainforest Camp is 10 luxury floating tents, set spectacularly on Cheow Larn Lake. Each floating tent includes an en suite bathroom, a comfortable double bed and a sun deck to sit and enjoy the amazing views of the lake and the rainforest mountains. Guests can canoe off from their own deck (canoe hire included) to explore the lake and perhaps spot the monkeys or array of birdlife. Guided canoe tours are also included. Facilities include a restaurant and bar.

Elephant Hills 3 Day Jungle Lake Safari Day 1 Arrive Elephant Hills You will be met on arrival at Phuket Airport and transferred to Elephant Hills Luxury Tented Camp. Ideally you should have a flight arriving into Phuket before 9.30am. 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. Note No riding on, or trekking with the Elephants. This is truly a once in a lifetime chance to experience the Asian Elephant, the largest land animal in this part of the world. Relax by the pool then dinner and overnight. Day 2 Cheow Larn Lake After breakfast depart by truck 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 and a choice of relaxing by the lake with a swim or canoe or a guided jungle trek in the rainforest. After lunch return to Phuket airport (or to other locations) by boat and road transfer arriving approximately 5pm.

Prices from ÂŁ350 per person, based on twin share.

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ELEPHANT HILLS TRUCK SAFARI 5 Day Small Group Tour

Experience new unique Truck Safaris and explore the lesser known parts of Southern Thailand in air-conditioned and

Includes • Travel in Safari Trucks • Tented camp accommodation • 4 Breakfasts, 5 lunches and 5 dinners • Activities as per the itinerary • Services of an Elephant Hills guide

open-air Safari Trucks. This fullyescorted tour offers familiar aspects from the existing Elephant Hills nature tours such as the popular Elephant Experience and overnights in tented camps, combined with southern Thai cultural sites, visits to interesting locations such as traditional coffee shops and stunning natural scenery. Departs every Wednesday. Maximum group size of 16.

THAILAND

Day 1 Pick up from your Phuket or Khao Lak hotel. Mangrove forest exploration by boat and with self paddle canoes. Visit a remote beach on an island. Overnight at Elephant Hills camp site.

Day 4 Lake exploration in a local long-tail boat, swimming, guided canoe safari and wildlife spotting. Overnight at the Elephant Hills Rainforest Camp. Day 5 Jungle Trekking on foot through Southern Thailand’s unique rainforest environment. Return to Phuket or Khao Lak via Phang Nga, visiting local Buddhist temples along the way. Price from £520 per person, based on twin share.

Day 2 Visit a waterfall, fresh market and walk at historical Takuapa old town. Evening Activities: Dance performances, cooking demonstrations. Overnight at Elephant Hills Luxury Tented Camp. Day 3 Sok River Canoe Safari, Elephant Hills Elephant Experience (feed and bathe an elephant). Evening activities: dance performances, cooking demonstrations. Overnight at Elephant Hills Luxury Tented Camp.

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

THE LAYANA RESORT AND SPA How to get there There are regular flights from Bangkok to Krabi. From Krabi Airport you will be met by and transferred by shared, airconditioned mini-bus to Baan Hua Hin Pier, a journey time of 1 hour. During the high season Nov - Apr you will then travel by boat to Pimalai - a 1 hour ride, or to Layana - a 20 min ride. In low season an alternative crossing may be required call for details. Roundtrip transfer from £80 per person for Pimalai and from £92 per person for Layana.

BANGKOK

★

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

needed. Bathrooms are fitted with bathtubs and separate showers, while the suites are additionally provided with open-air garden showers. Facilities Tides Restaurant is perched on the very edge of the beach overlooking the sea serving international cuisine as well as traditional Thai cuisine. For bars, choose from The Sands Bar, overlooking the beach or The Sundowners Bar facing the beach. Also the newly-renovated Linger Longer Spa has an idyllic garden setting with 5 treatment rooms and other facilities including a library, fitness room and an infinity pool overlooking the beach. Offer Receive up to 8 nights free, 1 May-30 Sep 14.

Koh Lanta

Prices from £87 per person per night, including breakfast daily.

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KOH LANTA

★★★★★

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

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

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 unparalled sea views. Offer Earlybird discounts apply. Call for details. Prices from £63 per person per night, including breakfast daily.

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

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KRABI and PHI PHI ISLANDS Travel Krabi is well served with regular scheduled flights from Bangkok, with a flying time of 70 minutes. Krabi’s airport is 17 miles from Ao Nang, the main beach resort. A private transfer is from £15 per person. The islands of Phi Phi can be reached via a flight to either Phuket or Krabi, then a boat transfer of 60-75 minutes. We can arrange for you to be met on arrival at either airport and privately transferred to the boat marina for your boat crossing to Phi Phi, from £40 per person. Some hotels offer a private speedboat as an alternative to the scheduled ferry service. This is a much quicker crossing but also more expensive.

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 north of Ao Nang and offer a quieter

BANGKOK

★

Krabi, located 500 miles Khao Thong

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

beaches, backed by

Tubkaak Beach

KRABI

1 4

Wat Tham Sua Airport

Reclining Buddha Khao Klom

dense rainforest and Krabi

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

Klong Muang Beach

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

3 2

Pranang Beach

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

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KRABI Hotels

THE TUBKAAK KRABI BOUTIQUE RESORT ★★★★★

Nestled on the white sand of Tubkaak Beach with superb views towards the limestone peaks of the Ko Hong Archipelago. Guests of the boutique-style Tubkaak Resort will not be surrounded by high-rise hotels or crowds, just calm tranquillity in a beautiful natural setting. Rooms are located in two storey buildings set around the pool and gardens, or on the beachfront with a terrace and an unrivalled sea view. Facilities include a bar and restaurant, spa, sauna, swimming pool, jacuzzi, WiFi, gym, and library. Offer Receive up to 2 nights free. 17 Apr – 30 Sep 14. Prices from £76 per person per night, including breakfast daily.

RAYAVADEE ★★★★★

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 98 enchanting two-story pavilions and four luxurious beachfront 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 rom £180 per person per night, including breakfast daily.

INSPIRED BY ASIA

THAILAND

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KRABI Hotels

CENTARA GRAND BEACH RESORT & VILLAS ★★★★★

The Centara Grand Beach Resort sits majestically within its own private bay with impressive views. The resort has a direct beachfront location facing 500 metres of pristine white sand. This resort of 192 rooms and pool villas is linked to the town of Ao Nang by free boat transfers. Rooms are spacious and include a ‘living-room-style’ terrace complete with a lounge and dining area. Facilities include two pools, a kids’ club and pool, jacuzzi, gym, watersports, a spa and choice of bars and restaurants. Offer Receive up to 8 nights free. Offer dates vary. Call for details. Prices from £85 per person per night, including breakfast daily.

AMARI VOGUE KRABI ★★★★★

Situated on the sandy white shores of Tub Kaek Beach beside the tranquil blue of the Andaman Sea, Amari Vogue is an intimate 57-room resort with elegant Lanna-inspired architecture in a beautiful garden setting. Set on a hillside sloping gently towards the idyllic beach, the Amari Vogue offers a perfect beach-side getaway. All rooms are spacious and feature a private balcony. Facilities include two restaurants, a lounge, a poolside cafe, a pool, kids’ pool, spa and fitness room. Offer Receive up to 3 nights free 22 Apr – 31 Oct 14. Prices from £72 per person per night, including breakfast daily.

THAILAND

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PHI PHI ISLANDS

ZEAVOLA RESORT ★★★★★

Zeavola Resort is a romantic rustic resort, located on the northern tip of Koh Phi Phi, nestled on a prime stretch of soft white sand. An hour by speed boat from Phuket or Krabi, Zeavola Resort is the perfect getaway to relax, recharge and reinvigorate. Activities and facilities include exploring the nearby pristine reefs with a PADI accredited dive centre, a strong emphasis on nature at Zeavola Spa or sampling some of Thailand’s finest cuisine at a choice of two restaurants. Offer Receive 3 nights for the price of 2, or 6 for 4. Dates vary, call for details. Prices from £105 per person per night, including breakfast daily.

OUTRIGGER PHI PHI ISLAND RESORT & SPA ★★★★★

The Outrigger Phi Phi Island Resort & Spa is spectacularly located on an 800 metre private sandy beach with low-rise accommodation set amidst a coconut plantation. Twelve hillside pool villas and 144 bungalows include a large balcony and sun lounge chairs with Beachfront Junior Suites offering full sea views. Facilities include a pool, a kids’ pool, spa, fitness room, tennis, a five-star PADI dive centre, watersports and a choice of four bars and four restaurants. Offer Receive up to 2 nights free 16 Apr – 31 Oct 14. Prices from £69 per person per night, including breakfast daily.

INSPIRED BY ASIA

THAILAND

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

ANANTARA RASANANDA KOH PHANGAN VILLA RESORT & SPA How to get there There are regular flights from Bangkok to Koh Samui, a journey time of an hour. We can arrange for you to be met on arrival at Koh Samui Airport and transferred to the pier for a 35-minute speedboat crossing to Koh Phangan. The Resort staff will greet you on arrival, and transfer you to the lobby for check-in. From £60 per person, based on a shared scheduled speedboat. For a private speedboat price on request.

BANGKOK

★

Koh Phangan

THAILAND

Anantara Rasananda Villa Resort & Spa is an oasis of villas and suites sprawled over 200 metres of sea-view frontage, along the pristine white sands on Tong Nai Pan Noi Beach in northeast Koh Phangan. Just 35 minutes away from Koh Samui by speedboat. Accommodation 64 Villas and Suites all with individual pool and terrace or balcony. Garden Suites are surrounded by high walls and an age old wooden gate entrance; and offer 130 sq metres of indoor and outdoor living space. The Pool Suites are located on the 2nd floor and offer 100 sq metres of living space. The Thai Villa is a two-storey building with an open-air living space on the ground floor complete with giant hammock and pool, with a private bedroom on the higher level. Designed for utmost privacy and romance the 140 sq metre Lagoon Pool Villa stands alone with its own large terrace and sala with retractable doors. Activities and Facilities Activities include scuba diving, snorkelling, kayaking, jungle trekking, cultural and nature experience trips around the island. There is also a boutique gym equipped with the latest equipment. The library offers a place to relax and internet access should you have the need to stay in touch. Try your hand at the Thai cooking

classes. The expansive main swimming pool features bubble beds and massage jets and the spa includes a massage service amongst an array of treatments on offer. Yoga classes are also available. The signature restaurant features both al fresco and covered seaside dining or alternatively you may opt for private beach or invilla dining. Enjoy a drink at the hip glass swim-up pool bar or try Koh Phangan’s only wine cellar with a sea view.

Offer Receive up to a 15% discount earlybird deal. Dates vary. Call for details. Prices from £85 per person per night, including breakfast daily.

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

★★★★★

THE PARADISE KOH YAO BOUTIQUE BEACH RESORT & SPA How to get there From Phuket Airport you can be met and transferred to the marina, a 15-minute drive. The boat goes directly to the Paradise Resort in a crossing of around 60 minutes. From £60 per person. From Krabi Airport you can be met and transferred on a 40-minute drive to the pier, followed by a 40-minute crossing. From £65 per person. Please note guests arriving at the airports later than 4pm cannot be transferred on the same day.

BANGKOK

★

Koh Yao

INSPIRED BY ASIA

The Paradise Koh Yao Boutique Beach Resort is a collection of private villas and studios located adjacent to 400 metres of beach, providing year round natural luxury. Dramatic limestone rock formations and steep cliffs provide a spectacular setting for this quiet, back-to-nature resort.

and trekking and boat trips to the nearby deserted

Accommodation Superior studios offer stunning views from the hillside overlooking the resort and provide plenty of space and an open sala living area. These studios are located in single or two-storey contemporary tropical-style buildings. Jacuzzi Studios include a private semi-outdoor jacuzzi, while the Plunge Pool Deluxe Studio rooms (pictured, above) have the addition of a private sundeck. The Pool Villas include a private pool and a wonderful location with the sandy beach just steps away.

Resort facilities include an infinity-edged pool with Jacuzzi and bubble bed, a kid’s pool and a spa. The main restaurant is nestled between shady trees, right on the beach with a covered area and additional seating on an open beach. The Al Fresco restaurant is also on the beach, under the shade of palm trees. The resort features Yoga and Wellbeing; a holistic approach to healthier living.

Activities and facilities There is a brand new dive base on Koh Yao Island with excellent new equipment and dive masters with over 20 years experience. Day trips can be arranged to see the incredible underwater world of Phang Nga Bay. PADI Dive courses can be prearranged. There is a Rock Climbing School offering an introductory course or, for experienced climbers there is a range of over 50 climbs. From the resort beach there is canoeing, snorkelling

islands for guided snorkelling opportunities. Fishing tours are available. Try elephant back riding on a trip through the jungle! For mountain bikers there are numerous trails throughout the island.

Offer Receive up to 7 nights free. Offer dates vary. Call for details. Prices from £65 per person per night, including breakfast daily.

THAILAND

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

PARADEE How to get there There is a two-and-a-half hour drive from Bangkok to Jadet Pier, in the province of Rayong. This is followed by a 15-minute private speedboat to Koh Samet, where you’ll be met and transferred to the hotel. We can arrange for you to be met on arrival at Bangkok Airport and privately transferred to the pier for the boat journey, or alternatively collected from your Bangkok accommodation. From £90 per person.

BANGKOK

★

Koh Samet

THAILAND

Hidden away at the southern tip of Koh Samet, Paradee features two secluded palm-fringed beaches. This couples only resort offers a getaway-from-it-all atmosphere for discerning travellers. All 40 luxuriously appointed villas have magnificent views of either the lush tropical gardens, or white sandy beaches, some with private pools. Facilities include an infinity pool, spa, fitness room, library, restaurant, wine cellar and pool bar. Excellent watersports facilities and island excursions. Learn to dive on Ao Prao beach. Accommodation All 40 luxuriously appointed villas have magnificent views of either the lush tropical gardens, or white sandy beaches. The villas are a spacious 100 sqm and are stylishly furnished in natural materials. All villas include a private terrace, private pool with Jacuzzi (except the 10 garden villas), 24hour 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 £92 per person per night, including breakfast daily.

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

AMARI EMERALD COVE KOH CHANG How to get there Daily flights operate from Bangkok to Trat Airport, a journey time of 60 minutes. We can arrange for you to be met on arrival and transferred to the pier for the crossing to Koh Chang. Allow 45 minutes for the car and boat journey. On arrival you’ll be transferred by Amari Emerald Cove’s own transport to the resort, a 20-minute drive. Transfer from Trat Airport from £18 per person.

BANGKOK

★

Koh Chang

INSPIRED BY ASIA

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

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

Offer Receive 4 nights for the price of 3 nights, 16 Apr – 31 Oct 14. Prices from £52 per person per night, including breakfast daily.

THAILAND

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MALAYSIA

The beach at The Danna, Langkawi

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MALAYSIA

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

When to go Malaysia has a tropical Langkawi Kota Kinabalu climate and offers warm SABAH temperatures throughout Penang the year, with an average Pangkor M A L AY S I A monthly temperature KUALA LUMPUR ranging between 23°C ★ and 32°C. There is a Tioman Kuching clear east-west split in the weather. The west coast islands of Penang, Langkawi and Pangkor B O R N E O Guide to the country are at their best weatherStart your Malaysia holiday in the wise during December to capital, Kuala Lumpur. This April, with the east coast vibrant city offers a contrast in enjoying drier weather architectural styles with the from April to October. The rainy season for the west is April to October, impressive Petronas Towers standing alongside colonial buildings. The while the east receives stormy monsoon weather during November beach resorts of Penang and Langkawi in the west are well-known, and December. The best time to visit Borneo is March to October, with offering a good choice of hotels, set on sandy beaches. the wettest months being November to February. The capital, Kuala To the east there are the islands of Redang and Tioman, offering Lumpur remains warm year round but has less rainfall during June to superb diving and snorkelling. The east coast of the mainland August. includes Kuala Terengganu, a region that features picturesque villages where religion and culture are very much a part of everyday Important to note life. Malaysian Borneo is a must-see, with its beaches, mountains British passport holders don’t need a visa unless they are staying for (Mt.Kinabalu is one of the highest mountains in SE Asia) but above all more than 60 days and the passport has at least six months validity a wide range of nature, birds and wildlife. Here you can get up close remaining. Malaysia is eight hours ahead of GMT. The currency is to Orang-utans in Sabah. A great way to experience the country is on a Malaysian Ringitt. Vaccinations are not normally required unless you private tour. This allows you to explore the lesser-known locations such are venturing deep into the jungles of Borneo. For full details of as historic Malacca and the tea-growing, colonial hill towns and vaccination requirements contact your doctor. villages of the Cameron Highlands. SA

W A

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

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

°C 25 26 26 25 30

R 162 35 160 214 254

INSPIRED BY ASIA

Feb °C 27 28 27 26 31

R 170 31 96 112 203

Mar °C 27 27 27 23 31

R 231 38 123 133 279

Apr °C 27 29 27 27 31

R 276 162 158 124 279

May °C 27 27 27 28 32

R 196 347 124 112 279

Jun °C 27 27 27 27 31

R 126 212 78 111 254

Jul °C 27 28 26 27 30

R 128 263 97 119 203

Aug °C 27 28 26 27 31

R 140 263 129 148 229

Sep °C 26 27 26 27 31

R 194 419 154 170 229

Oct °C 26 27 26 27 31

R 266 304 231 307 279

Nov °C 26 27 26 26 30

R 280 206 210 664 305

Dec °C 26 27 26 25 30

R 227 51 188 556 279

MALAYSIA

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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 £22 per person. Getting around the city is easy; taxis are a very reasonable option. The new LRT system has numerous stations in the city providing a frequent service. Attractions No visitor should miss a visit to the top of the Kuala Lumpur Tower. This offers unique views of the city and helps with an early orientation. Of course you can’t fail to see the Petronas Twin Towers dominating the skyline and a visit to the shopping centre at its base is worthwhile. The Batu Caves provides an

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

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.

KUALA LUMPUR

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

Twin Towers Bus Station

Information

mosques and Moorish architecture.

Broad modern highways and

KL Towers

KLCC Recreation Park

glamorous shopping centres contrast with colonial mansions and mosques. Jade Museum Central Market

Bus & Taxi Stand

MALAYSIA

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KUALA LUMPUR Hotels

★★★★★

THE MAJESTIC HOTEL KUALA LUMPUR

★★★★★

SHANGRI-LA HOTEL KUALA LUMPUR

The Majestic Hotel Kuala Lumpur includes the original Hotel Majestic which is documented as a national heritage site. The colonial structure was built in 1932 and became one of the great hotels of Kuala Lumpur in its time. This iconic hotel came to be the place for glamorous social events, government receptions and the residence for prominent international visitors. Facilities include a pool, gym, spa and reading room. Choice of bars and restaurants.

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

Offer Receive a free night when staying 3 nights at a sister resort.

Offer Free breakfast when staying 2 nights. Dates vary. Call for details.

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

Prices from £68 per person per night, based on room only.

★★★★★

★★★★

PARKROYAL SERVICED SUITES

TRADERS HOTEL KUALA LUMPUR

Choose from 287 well-appointed studios and one or two-bedroom apartments with modern design. Each suite is stylish and spacious, with contemporary furniture and fittings to ensure maximum comfort. Centrally located in the Golden Triangle area within walking distance to restaurants and the sights of KL, this property is ideal for travellers and families who need a spacious apartment in Kuala Lumpur for a few days. Rooftop outdoor pool, jacuzzi and fitness centre.

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

Offer Receive a 10% discount when staying 5 nights or more. Year round.

Offer Free breakfast when staying 2 nights or more. Year round.

Prices from £61 per person per night, including breakfast daily.

Prices from £60 per person per night, based on room only.

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MALAYSIA

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THE BEST OF MALAYSIA IN STYLE 12 Day Private Tour

Experience the best of Malaysia on this 12 day itinerary. Using entirely the five star hotels of the renown YTL group, enjoy accommodation of the highest standard combined with private, air-conditioned transfers. Enjoy superb scenery and a range of experiences, from the bustle of Kuala Lumpur, to historic Malacca and the hillside scenery of the Cameron Highlands. Finally 5 nights to relax on a stunning beach in either Pangkor Laut or the East Coast. Departs daily.

Kuala

SOUTH CHINA SEA

Cameron Terengganu Highlands

M A L AY S I A Pangkor

★ KUALA

LUMPUR

Malacca

STRAITS OF MALACCA

MALAYSIA

Price includes • 11 nights’ hotel accommodation as shown • Private air-conditioned transfers • Breakfast daily • Touring as shown Day 1 Kuala Lumpur Airport to Malacca You will be met on arrival and transferred to Malacca (2 hours). Stay 2 nights at The Majestic Malacca including breakfast daily. Located on the banks of the river, The Majestic Malacca provides a glimpse into the splendid saga of an extraordinary empire. Day 2 Malacca Enjoy a 90-minute Historic Walk tour with an English-speaking local guide. The guide will explain the history of Malacca during the walk, and show some of the oldest shops, temples and buildings around the Historical area. Departs at 10am or 5pm. Excluding Wednesdays. Day 3 Malacca to Kuala Lumpur Transfer to the capital (2 hours). Stay 2 nights at The Majestic Hotel Kuala Lumpur which has been recently restored. This colonial heritage building, dating from 1932 is a city icon. Day 4 Kuala Lumpur City Tour Enjoy a 3-4 hour morning or afternoon tour of KL’s sights. Day 5 KL to the Cameron Highlands A spectacular 3 hour drive takes you up to the Cameron Highlands Resort. Located 1467 metres above sea level and overlooking the golf course and close to the tea plantations. This boutique hideaway promises all the

The Majestic Malacca

splendour, romance and nostalgia of Cameron Highlands’ grand colonial heritage. Stay 2 nights. Day 6 Cameron Highlands Enjoy a morning guided tour of the Tea plantations and a short walk through a forest. Day 7-12 The Cameron Highlands to: EITHER Pangkor Laut Resort Head west to Lumut (3 hours). From Lumut board a speedboat for the short crossing to Pangkor Laut Resort. Stay 5 nights in this privately owned island of secluded bays and pristine beaches (see page 80). On your final day return to KL Airport via the speedboat and a 3 hour private car transfer. OR Tanjong Jara Resort Head east to the beautiful beach resort of Tanjong Jara Resort (page 73) just south of Dungun on Malaysia’s east coast (5 hours). On your final day a transfer will be provided for a 1 hour journey to Kuala Terengganu Airport. From here Inspired by Asia can arrange your onwards flights (not included). Price from £1299 per person, based on twin share.

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BEYOND KUALA LUMPUR

★★★★★

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 Receive a 10% discount when booking in advance for 2 night stays. Prices from £58 per person per night, including breakfast daily.

Price includes • Chalet accommodation at 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.

★★★★★

THE CAMERON HIGHLANDS RESORT The Cameron Highlands Resort is a tranquil 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.

Offer Receive a 10% discount when booking in advance for 2 night stays.

Day 1 Kuala Lumpur to Kuala Taman Negara Pick up from your KL 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. 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. Prices from £399 per person, based on twin share.

Prices from £58 per person per night, including breakfast daily.

INSPIRED BY ASIA

MALAYSIA

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PENANG Travel There are frequent scheduled flights from Kuala Lumpur to Penang. The airport is located 10 miles south of the capital, Georgetown, and 20 miles south of the main beach resort area of Batu Ferringhi with a journey time of around 50 minutes. We can arrange for you to be met on arrival at Penang Airport and transferred privately to your accommodation. From £12 per person.

Ferringhi, or the flea markets in Georgetown. The capital of the island, Georgetown, is a lively place to visit in the evenings; take a pedal-powered trishaw ride through the city’s narrow streets and see the largest collection of 18th and 19th century houses in SE Asia.

When to go Penang has an equatorial climate with temperatures ranging from a low of 22°C to a high of 30°C year round. The driest time to visit is January and February which is also the busiest period for visitors, with the wettest months from September to November.

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

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

Batu Ferringhi

2 Botanical Garden Fort Cornwallis

Penang Hill

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

Georgetown Kek Lok Si Temple

PENANG Penang Bridge

Snake Farm

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

Airport

view, take a trip up Penang Hill.

MALAYSIA

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PENANG Hotels

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

Situated along Batu Feringgi Beach, the iconic Shangri-La’s Rasa Sayang Resort and Spa sits within a 30-acre tropical landscaped garden. The resort comprises 304 guestrooms and suites, most of which have been extensively refurbished and expanded. Guests will enjoy a range of facilities such as complimentary Wi-Fi, a Par-3 pitch and putt golf course, two swimming pools, Adventure Zone for children, luxurious CHI, The Spa, and restaurants and bars offering international and local cuisine. Offer Receive up to 3 nights free. Offer dates vary, call for details. Prices from £116 per person per night, including breakfast daily.

GOLDEN SANDS RESORT PENANG

Located on Batu Ferringhi, Penang’s finest beach and set amidst tropical gardens facing the sea and sandy beach, the Golden Sands Resort, part of the renown Shangri-La Group of Hotels, is conveniently close to the night market. Rooms offer garden or sea views. Facilities include an outdoor pool, a children’s pool, fitness centre, watersports and an Adventure Zone. Bar and choice of four restaurants.

★★★★★ Offer Receive up to 3 nights free. Offer dates vary, call for details. Prices from £64 per person per night, including breakfast daily.

INSPIRED BY ASIA

MALAYSIA

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LANGKAWI Travel There are regular flights to Langkawi from Kuala Lumpur, a flying time of an hour. The airport is in the west of the island, a 25 minute drive to the main town of Kuah, but transfer times vary greatly depending on the location of your accommodation. The Andaman and The Datai hotels are located 20 miles north of the airport with a transfer time of 40 minutes. We can arrange for you to be met on arrival and transferred privately to your hotel from £9 per person. 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 the area. There is a very good half day island-hopping cruise that includes a visit to the beautiful Lake of the Pregnant Maiden. When to go Langkawi is warm all year round with temperatures around 30°C, occasionally dropping to 22°C. The hottest month is usually February and the coolest is October. The driest and so most popular period for visitors is from mid-November to April. The rainy season is from September to early November, though the rainfall is mixed with periods of sunshine.

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

1 Waterfall

Located 20 miles off the north western coast of Malaysia, Langkawi is a beautiful but quiet island; ideal for relaxation but with very little in the way of nightlife

Padang Lalang Crocodile Farm

Gunung Mat Chincang

L A N G K AW I

Gunung Raya

Airport

Golf Club

Kuah

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

5 Pulau Dayang Bunting

Pulau Tuba

villages that Langkawi has to offer.

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LANGKAWI Hotels

THE DATAI ★★★★★

The Datai is an outstanding hotel set in an ancient rainforest above a secluded sandy beach. This is an ideal choice for honeymooners or a couple wanting an idyllic break in a beautiful natural setting. Featuring 54 Deluxe rooms, 40 Villas and 16 Suites, all with sizeable bedrooms, living areas and verandahs which look out to the natural landscape. Facilities include two pools, a spa, health club, watersports, tennis, a library, bar and a choice of four restaurants. Offer Receive up to 3 nights free. Offer dates vary. Call for details. Prices from £219 per person per night, including breakfast daily.

THE DANNA LANGKAWI ★★★★★

The Danna Langkawi faces a sandy beach, marina and lush tropical hills. This boutique resort embraces the architectural beauty from the colonial era in a Mediterranean ambience and is located at Telaga Harbour on the west side of Langkawi, just a 10 minute drive from the airport. Sumptuously decorated rooms offer a variety of views including the adjacent marina, seaviews, and rainforest. Facilities include a choice of bars and restaurants, a swimming pool, cafe, health club and spa. Offer Receive up to 2 nights free. Offer dates vary, call for details. Prices from £141 per person per night including breakfast daily.

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LANGKAWI Hotels

THE ANDAMAN LANGKAWI ★★★★★

Located on a magnificent sweep of private sandy beach, The Andaman Langkawi is a tropical paradise with spectacular views of ancient virgin rainforests and mountains beyond. Deluxe rooms offer a choice of rainforest or sea views (Deluxe Seaview room pictured). Facilities include a large freeform swimming pool, Spa, kids’ club, a gym, a mini library. Activities include non-motorised watersports, guided nature walks and coral activities. Beachfront bar, lounge and a choice of four restaurants. Offer Receive up to 4 nights free. Dates vary call for details. Prices from £100 per person per night, including breakfast daily.

CASA DEL MAR ★★★★

Casa Del Mar is a boutique hotel on beautiful Pantai Cenang beach, just a 10-minute drive from the airport and within walking distance to local cafes, shops and restaurants. From its Mediterranean architecture to its relaxed and comfortable interior, Casa Del Mar is a perfect oasis for couples looking for a private and peaceful retreat. All rooms are sea-facing with floor-to-ceiling sliding picture windows. Facilities include a pool, a pool bar, a spa, a wine bar and an excellent beachside restaurant. Offer Receive a 5% discount when staying 14 nights. Year round. Prices from £102 per person per night, including breakfast daily.

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LANGKAWI Hotels

MERITUS PELANGI BEACH RESORT & SPA ★★★★

The Meritus Pelangi Beach Resort is located along the beautiful and scenic stretch of the famous Cenang white sandy beach. The breathtaking view begins the minute you step into the lobby and continues throughout the 31 acres of award-winning landscaped garden. Raised on stilts, all guest rooms feature balconies, with either garden, pool or sea views. Facilities include two outdoor swimming pools, a fitness centre, a spa, tennis, squash, a kids’ club and two bars and choice of three restaurants. Offer Receive up to 4 nights free. Offer dates vary, call for details. Prices from £99 per person per night, based on room only.

BERJAYA LANGKAWI RESORT & SPA ★★★★

The Berjaya Langkawi Resort and Spa is located in Burau Bay, just 15 minutes from the airport. This value-for-money resort offers traditional Malaysian-style chalets and suites spread over 70 acres of land and set in dense rainforest fronting the ocean and sandy beach. There is a choice of rainforest, partial sea view and full sea view rooms and luxury over-water chalets, built on stilts. Facilties include a pool, Jacuzzi, spa, gym, watersports, bars and a choice of 5 restaurants. Offer Receive up to 2 nights free. Offer dates vary call for details. Prices from £69 per person per night, including breakfast daily.

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EAST COAST MALAYSIA Travel To reach Tanjong Jara Resort, fly from Kuala Lumpur to Kuala Terengganu. We can arrange for you to be met there and transferred privately to the Resort; a journey time of around an hour. From £35 per person. Redang Island is a 75minute flight from Kuala Lumpur’s Subang Airport, operated with a daily service by Berjaya Air. Tioman Island is a one hour flight from Kuala Lumpur, also operated daily by Berjaya Air and departing from Subang Airport. We can arrange these flights, but also a

Redang Kuala Terengganu

MA L AY S I A Kuantan Kuala Lumpur

Tioman

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

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

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EAST COAST MALAYSIA Hotels

JAPAMALA TIOMAN ISLAND ★★★★

Fashionably rustic, Japamala is a boutique resort with true seclusion, set amidst 11 acres of lush wilderness and flanked by an inviting beach. Open all year round the location on the south west corner of Tioman Island means it is mostly sheltered from the east coast monsoon (Nov-Feb). Charming villas and chalets are either hidden amidst luxuriant greenery, or perched high above the lagoon. Activities and facilities include scuba-diving, kayaking, jungle-trekking, pool, spa, library and restaurant. Offer Receive a 5% discount when staying 7 nights or more, year round. Prices from £64 per person per night, including breakfast daily.

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

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Beautiful powder-white beaches with pristine blue waters and lush tropical rainforest are just some of the attractions of magical Redang Island. Located off the east coast off Malaysia, Redang has one of the best coral and marine ecosystems in the country; superb for snorkelling and diving. 191 spacious rooms with a choice of garden, hill, bay or sea views. Facilities include a pool, gym, tennis, and watersports. Choice of bars and restaurants. The Taaras Spa. There is also an excellent 5-star PADI dive centre. Offer Receive a 5% discount when staying 14 nights or more. Year round. Prices from £74 per person per night, including breakfast daily.

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CITY, RAINFOREST AND BEACH 10 Day Private Tour

Tanjong Jara Resort

Experience the best of Malaysia. This tour combines the hustle and bustle of the modern metropolis of the capital, Kuala Lumpur with a few days

Price includes • 2 nights Majestic Hotel Kuala Lumpur • City Tour of Kuala Lumpur • 3 Day 2 night Taman Negara Tour • 5 nights Tanjong Jara Resort, East Coast • Breakfast daily, 1 lunch and 2 dinners • Private transfers (shared boat Taman Negara)

Day 5 Taman Negara National Park to Tanjong Jara Resort Return to Kuala Tembeling by boat, then by private car to the east coast of Malaysia to Tanjong Jara Resort. Journey time from Kuala Tembeling is approximately 5 hours. Check-in to the Tanjong Jara Resort for a 5 night stay in a Bumbung room including breakfast daily.

Day 1 Arrive Kuala Lumpur Met on arrival and privately transferred to The Majestic Hotel Kuala Lumpur for a 2 night stay including breakfast daily.

Days 6-9 Tanjong Jara Resort Relax and enjoy the superb beach and outstanding facilities.

of adventure in the heart of a rainforest at Taman Negara National Park. Then relax in five star luxury on the golden sands of East Malaysia.This tour includes private car transfers but the boat journey in Taman Negara is on a shared basis. Flights not included. Departs daily.

Kuala Terengganu

Day 2 City Tour Enjoy a morning half day city sightseeing tour of Kuala Lumpur. Afternoon at leisure. Day 3 Kuala Lumpur to Taman Negara National Park Travel by private car with a three hour journey to the town of Kuala Tembeling. From here, travel by outboard motor canoes (in a small group) for two hours to Taman Negara National Park, the first and oldest national park in the country, filled to the brim with exciting ecotourism activities. Unspoilt and undisturbed, an unforgettable experience awaits you. Stay 2 nights in chalet accommodation at the Taman Negara Resort.

Day 10 Tanjong Jara Resort to Airport Morning at leisure before your private car transfer to Kuala Terengganu. Your tour ends here but Inspired by Asia can arrange your onward flight to Kuala Lumpur. Price from £999 per person, based on twin share.

Taman Negara

MALAYSIA Kuala Lumpur

Day 4 Taman Negara National Park Enjoy a boat trip to Lake Berkoh and a walk along the rope bridge canopy walkway. Taman Negara National Park

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EAST COAST MALAYSIA

★★★★★

TANJONG JARA RESORT Set on the East Coast of Peninsular Malaysia, Tanjong Jara Resort is a sanctuary of luxury and well-being steeped in age-old Malay traditions. The Resort’s elegantly crafted wooden buildings rest on a 17-hectare site facing the South China Sea. Designed to reflect the grandeur of 17th century Malay palaces, this 99-room resort offers an authentic taste of the region’s spirit. The Resort is located between Kuala

INSPIRED BY ASIA

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, left) 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, tennis, bike hire, river cruises, cooking classes, an award-winning Spa Village, two restaurants, bars and a library. Diving and snorkelling excursions are available from March to October.

Offer Receive up to 3 nights free, year round. Prices from £58 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 212 hours. The airport is five miles from Kota Kinabalu. We can arrange for you to be met on arrival and transferred privately to your accommodation. Prices vary according to the distance from the airport to the accommodation. Ask us for details.

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

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

Divided from Peninsula Malaysia by the

Mt Kinabalu Kota Kinabalu

South China Sea is the island of Borneo.

Sepilok EI

N RU

Sabah is one of two Malaysian states on

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

SABAH

Kuching

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

BORNEO

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

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BORNEO Hotels

GAYA ISLAND RESORT ★★★★★

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 white 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 3 nights free, year round. Prices from £109 per person per night, including breakfast daily.

BUNGA RAYA ISLAND RESORT ★★★★★

Bunga Raya Island Resort is a luxurious jewel set on a coral reef island just off the coast of Borneo and a 30 minute car and boat journey from Kota Kinabalu. A secluded island hideaway of 47 timbered villas, it is framed by white sand beach and virgin jungle. Hillside villas reflect the simplicity of the Borneo architectural style. A hilltop spa blends the finest Traditional Asian and Western treatments using restorative powers of indigenous plants and oils. Free boat to sister hotel, Gayana Eco Resort. Offer Receive 7 nights for the price of 6. Offer dates vary. Call for details. Prices from £146 per person per night, including breakfast and boat transfers.

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BORNEO Hotels

SHANGRI-LA’S RASA RIA RESORT ★★★★★

Shangri-La’s Rasa Ria Resort faces a 3-kilometre long sweep of pristine, white sandy beach, backed by forested hills. Uniquely includes a 64-acre conservation nature reserve where guests can view the twice daily feeding of Orang Utan (small fee). Choose from the Garden Wing or the more luxurious Ocean Wing accommodation (breakfast included). Facilities include a pool for each wing, kids’ club and pool, an 18-hole golf course, spa, fitness centre, tennis, watersports, bars and restaurants. Offer Receive up to 2 nights free. Offer dates vary, call for details. Prices from £73 per person per night, based on room only.

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

MALAYSIA

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

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BEST OF BORNEO 10 Day Small Group Tour

Experience the best that Borneo has to offer. Borneo features a great combination for a memorable holiday. Spend time on the superb sandy beaches with

Price includes • 2 nights Shangri-La’s Tanjung Aru Resort • 5 nights Shangri-La’s Rasa Ria Resort • 3 Day Turtle Island & Orang Utans Tour • Flights Kota Kinabalu-Sandakan-Kota Kinabalu • Private airport transfers

excellent snorkelling and chance to see Orang Utan up

Day 1 Arrive Borneo You’ll be met on arrival at Kota Kinabalu Airport and privately transferred to Shangri-La’s Tanjung Aru for a 2 night stay.

close at the renown Sepilok Orang

Day 2 Kota Kinabalu Day at leisure.

watersports facilities with the

Utan Sanctuary. You may have the chance to witness the turtles laying their eggs on Turtle Island. Stay in luxury at two top Shangri-

Day 4 Sepilok Orangutan Sanctuary and Kinabatangan River Boat Tour Here you can view the feeding of Orang Utans at the free roaming feeding platform. Then a boat cruise up to the Lower Kinabatangan River Sanctuary and lunch at Abai Jungle Restaurant. After lunch, free to enjoy the nature boardwalk and wildlife spotting (look for wild Orang Utan, monkeys and birds). Stay 1 night at the Abai Jungle Lodge including en suite facilities and all meals.

La Hotel properties. Departs daily.

Mt Kinabalu Kota Kinabalu EI

Kuching

BORNEO

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Sepilok SABAH

Day 3 Turtle Island Early morning flight to Sandakan. Then a one hour boat journey to Selingan `Turtle` Island. Afternoon is free to relax with swimming and snorkelling. After dinner, wait for the rangers call to observe the turtles laying eggs. Watch as the eggs are transferred to the Hatchery and if there are any young turtle hatchlings, an opportunity to observe the release of the turtles to the sea. Stay 1 night at the Selingan Island Resort including all meals. Rooms have en suite facilities.

Day 5 Return to Kota Kinabalu Early morning river trip to the Pitas Oxbow Lake before breakfast. Depart by boat to Sandakan. Visit the busy market in the heart of Sandakan before your flight back to Kota Kinabalu. Mid afternoon private transfer to Shangri-La’s Rasa Ria Resort for a 5 night stay in a Deluxe Rainforest room on a room only basis. Days 6-9 Shangri-La’s Rasa Ria Resort Time to relax and enjoy the beach, the on-site Orang Utan Sanctuary and the five star facilities. Day 10 Depart Kota Kinabalu Time at leisure before your private transfer to the airport.

Prices from £1299 per person, based on twin share.

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BORNEO Tours

3 DAY DANUM VALLEY TOUR

3 DAY TURTLE ISLAND AND ORANG UTANS TOUR

Price includes • 2 nights at Borneo Rainforest Lodge • Touring as shown (small group size) • 2 breakfasts, 3 lunches and 2 dinners • Flight Kota Kinabalu-Lahad Datu roundtrip • 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 a 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. Drive for 80km through selectively logged forest, cocoa and soft-wood plantations before arriving at the Borneo Rainforest Lodge, located beside the Danum River. The area is home to the full range of Sabah’s lowland fauna, including the rare Sumatran Rhinoceros, 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 whole 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. Day 3 Danum Valley to Kota Kinabalu Morning at leisure before your return journey to Kota Kinabalu.

Price includes • 1 night at Selingan (Turtle) Island Chalets • 1 night at Abai Jungle Lodge, Sukau • Touring as shown (small group size) • 2 breakfasts, 3 lunches and 2 dinners • Flight Kota Kinabalu-Sandakan roundtrip • English-speaking guide • Air-conditioned vehicles

A 3 day tour that includes a memorable stay on Turtle Island and the chance to observe turtles laying eggs on the beach. A visit to an Orang Utan Sanctuary and a jungle river cruise. Departs daily. Day 1 Turtle Island Early morning departure from your hotel for the short flight to Sandakan, followed by a boat journey to Turtle Island. Afternoon free for snorkelling and swimming. After dinner, wait for the rangers call to observe turtles laying eggs. Transfer the eggs to the hatchery and if there are young turtle hatchlings, an opportunity to observe the release of baby turtles to the open sea. Overnight at Selingan Island. Day 2 Orang Utans and Sukau River Return to Sandakan and visit to the Sepilok Orang Utan Rehabilition Centre. Witness the feeding of Orang Utans at the free roaming platform. Enjoy a one hour boat cruise through spectacular scenery to the Lower Kinabatangan River Sanctuary for lunch at Abai Jungle Restaurant. Then cruise up river to Sukau village in search of primates especially the Endemic Proboscis Monkeys, birds and other wildlife. Arrive Abai Jungle Lodge. Enjoy a walk along the jungle boardwalk. Day 3 Sandakan Morning at Abai Jungle Lodge before returning to Sandakan. Time to browse the busy market before your flight to Kota Kinabalu. Prices from £599 per person, based on twin share.

Price £859 per person, based on twin share.

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BORNEO Hotels and Tours

5 DAY TURTLE ISLAND AND DANUM VALLEY TOUR

BORNEO RAINFOREST LODGE 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 31 individual high ceiling chalets include a fan and en-suite bathrooms. 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. All meals included in the Lodge restaurant.

Experience the wonder of Turtle Island, a visit to the Sepilok Orangutan Sanctuary and a couple of days in the spectacular Danum Valley. Departs daily.

Price includes • 1 night Selingan Island Chalets • 1 night Abai Jungle Lodge • 2 nights at Borneo Rainforest Lodge • Touring as shown (small group size) • • • •

4 breakfasts, 5 lunches and 4 dinners Flights Kota Kinabalu-Sandakan/Lahad Datu-Kota Kinabalu English-speaking guide Air-conditioned vehicles

Day 1 Turtle Island Depart early from your Kota Kinabalu hotel with a short flight to Sandakan. Then boat to Turtle Island where you observe turtles laying eggs on the beach. Day 2 Orangutans A visit the Sepilok Orangutan Sanctuary before continuing to Sukau, for a stay at the Abai Jungle Lodge.

SELINGAN ISLAND CHALETS The Turtle Island Park is a safe haven for the endangered green and hawksbill turtles. Selingan, the largest of the islands houses the park’s headquarters, a turtle hatchery and the Selingan Island Chalets. Accommodation is 25 air-conditioned chalets with en suite facilities. All rooms are simple but comfortable and include a small fridge and windows covered with mosquito netting. Meals are served in the resort’s restaurant. Swim and snorkel on the beach by the resort.

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Day 3 Sukau to Danum Valley Travel by boat and vehicle to the Danum Valley (approx 5 hours). Stay 2 nights at the Borneo Rainforest Lodge. Day 4 Danum Valley Spend the day exploring the forest for birds and mammals. Optional activities include swimming in the rock pools, tubing down the river and a jungle trek. Day 5 Depart Danum Valley Morning at leisure before your flight back to Kota Kinabalu.

Price £1749 per person.

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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.

★★★★★

PANGKOR LAUT RESORT How to get there Lumut is the gateway to Pangkor - a 4 hour drive from Kuala Lumpur airport. From Lumut there is a scheduled speedboat service to Pangkor Laut (15-minute crossing, five times a day). Pangkor Laut Resort also offers a 24hour 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 in Lumut, to meet the prebooked scheduled speedboat transfer.

Penang

M ALAYSI A

Pangkor Kuala Lumpur

MALAYSIA

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

trips and island excursions are available. For more peaceful activities there is Tai Chi, Yoga and cooking classes. Resort facilities include two swimming pools (one only for spa guests) a jet pool and cold dip, gymnasium, tennis, squash and spa treatments at Spa Village. 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.

Offer Receive up to 3 nights free. Offer dates vary, call for details. Prices from £102 per person per night, including breakfast daily.

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PANGKOR LAUT

★★★★★

MUSE PANGKOR LAUT ESTATES Pangkor Laut is a privately owned island located off the west coast of Peninsular Malaysia where the natural beauty and rich surroundings have been woven seamlessly into the fabric of luxurious villas and bespoke estates. MUSE Pangkor Laut Estates represent SE Asia’s past gentry, featuring eight distinct estates that conjure up an atmosphere that recalls the romantic lifestyle of a British estate manager of old Malaya. Every estate is designed to be complete unto itself where guests may request anything and enjoy life to the fullest without stepping out of an estate’s acreage. Privacy is paramount. The choice to interact with neighbours is exercised by each guest, and is not the result of inadvertent proximity. Should one decide to venture around the private island, a litany of pleasant surprises awaits amidst the rainforest and the rocks. From Pangkor Laut Resort to the Spa Village, every facility is designed to be in harmony with the environment. In these private sanctuaries, each intimate escape is a celebration of senses, tastes and textures.

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Accommodation Situated on the northern part of the exclusive island of Pangkor Laut, all Estates are private paradises, set within acres of pristine rainforest and feature luxurious comforts. Each Estate has its own natural uniqueness and biosphere of distinctive plant and animal species. The beachfront Estates One, Two and Four has a natural marine aquarium at their doorstep in the form of the cove’s waters. Estates Five to Nine, sited on hilltops within the rainforest, are magnificent examples of living in a colossal natural arboretum.

Getting there The Estates’ helicopters fly between Subang Airport and Pangkor Laut; or the island can be reached by taking a limousine from Kuala Lumpur to Marina Island Pangkor, then boarding the YTL Lady, a luxurious motoryacht that brings guests directly to the island. Price on request.

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BALI

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BALI

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

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

When to go With its proximity to the Equator, Bali is hot and generally sunny all year round, with temperatures averaging between the high 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.

BALI Ubud

DENPASAR Seminyak

★

Sanur

Lembongan Island

Kuta Nusa Dua

TR MA

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

INDONESIA

Important to note A visa is required, issued on arrival at the airport. You will need to have $US25 in cash handy for this. Your passport must have at least six months validity remaining. Bali is eight hours ahead of GMT. The currency is Indonesian Rupiah, but you are advised to bring US Dollars with you. Vaccinations are not essential for visitors to Bali but contact your doctor for full details. Nyepi Day (31 March 2014) is silence day – a very important ritual for the Balinese. Note that on this day travel is not permitted so it is best to avoid arriving, or departing Bali on this day.

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

Feb

Mar

Apr

May

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep

Oct

Nov

Dec

°C R 28 340

°C R 28 277

°C R 28 197

°C R 29 92

°C R 28 75

°C R 28 68

°C R 27 47

°C R 27 25

°C R 27 48

°C R 27 100

°C R 28 173

°C R 29 299

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BALI Hotels

KARMA JIMBARAN ★★★★★

Set along one of Bali’s most idyllic stretches of coastline, Karma Jimbaran is a collection of 40 luxury pool villas offering 1 -6 bedroom options, set on a gently sloping hillside facing the white sand beaches of the world famous Jimbaran Bay. Karma Jimbaran’s luxury villas are characterised by a series of pavilions featuring floor to ceiling glass surrounding a central garden courtyard complete with private pool and verandah. Facilities include a seafood restaurant, spa, kids club and cooking classes. Offer Receive up to 4 nights free. Dates vary, call for details. Prices from £160 per person per night, including breakfast daily.

ANANTARA SEMINYAK RESORT AND SPA ★★★★★

Set on prime beachfront, surrounded by the natural beauty of the Seminyak coast, the Anantara is a luxury retreat just steps from the Indian Ocean and Seminyak village, an elegant outpost of chic restaurants and boutiques. The 59 luxurious suites (and one penthouse) feature a Balinese-style decor and ceiling-to-floor doors and windows, large balconies with terrazzo tubs and views of the ocean. Facilities include three pools including an infinity-edged pool, spa, gym and a choice of restaurants. Offer Receive up to 2 nights free. Offer dates vary, call for details. Prices from £154 per person per night, including breakfast daily.

BALI

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BALI Hotels

SPA VILLAGE RESORT TEMBOK, BALI ★★★★★

Spa Village Resort Tembok, Bali is a 31-room resort located in the beautiful village of Tembok on the pristine northern part of the island. This is a resort for those seeking a sanctuary away from the pressures of the world. Choose from a range of experiences; massage therapy and treatments, creative stimulation or a range of exercises, and all in a landscape of natural beauty. Spa, pool, gym, yoga, and an open restaurant with stunning sea views. Excursions include diving and snorkelling. Kamar room pictured. Offer Receive up to 3 nights free. Year round. Prices from £100 per person per night including 3 meals per day and a daily spa treatment.

BALI PAVILIONS ★★★★★

The Bali Pavilions are 23 private villas, most with a private pool, located in Sanur, close to a stunning lagoon that is fringed by an extensive reef, and bordered on the other side by a long white beach (a few minutes walk). Each villa has a private entrance, private patio and sundeck area and are surrounded by tropical gardens. The two bedroom villa has a full kitchen and is ideal for families. Facilities include a pool, spa and restaurant. A short walk to Sanur offers a good choice of bars, cafés and restaurants. Offer Receive 5 nights for the price of 4. Offer dates vary, call for details. Prices from £77 per person per night, including breakfast daily.

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BALI Hotels

THE SEMINYAK BEACH RESORT & SPA ★★★★★

The Seminyak Beach Resort and Spa enjoys a beachfront location in upmarket Seminyak. Guests will enjoy sea views from the beach-facing infinity pool, surrounded by lily ponds and thatched pavilions, and rooms that offer a Balinese touch and modern facilities including a 42-inch flat-screen TV with DVD player, an iPod dock and free wifi. The hotel is within easy walking distance of Seminyak Square. Facilities include a restaurant, lounge (with ocean views) and a bar. Offer Receive up to 3 nights free. Dates vary, call for details. Prices from £117 per person per night, including breakfast daily.

PURI SANTRIAN BEACH RESORT & SPA ★★★★

The Puri Santrian Hotel is situated along the coast of upscale Sanur on the tranquil south-eastern side of the island. Sanur offers a range of bars and restaurants close to the hotel. This family owned and operated hotel offers a choice of room types with either garden or beach views, spacious bungalows include 2 rooms under one roof and the luxurious Santrian Club Wing with its own pool and stylish rooms (breakfast included). Facilities include a pool, spa, watersports, bar and two restaurants. Offer Receive up to 3 nights free. Dates vary, call for details. Prices from £53 per person per night, based on room only.

BALI

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UBUD Hotels

ALILA UBUD ★★★★★

The Alila Ubud is a tranquil and secluded hillside retreat high on the edge of the rich green Ayung River valley in Bali’s central foothills. The resort is just minutes from Ubud. Blending contemporary design and traditional Balinese architecture, the secluded courtyards, spacious terraces and private gardens create an intimate feeling. The 56 rooms offer pano-ramic views of the Ayung River and surrounding volcanoes. Facilities include a spectacular pool, a spa, bicycle hire, library, bar and restaurant. . Offer 4 nights for the price of 3 nights. Offer dates vary, call for details. Prices from £75 per person per night, including breakfast daily.

KOMANEKA RESORT AT MONKEY FOREST ★★★★

Located in the centre of Ubud, the Komaneka is surrounded by lush tropical vegetation, a veritable oasis in the midst of bustling Ubud and picturesque Monkey Forest Road, with its many wonderful shops, excellent restaurants and easy access to temples, cultural performances, museums and galleries. Facilities include a restaurant, pool bar, infinity-edged pool, spa and library. Deluxe rooms offer views of the rice fields or garden courtyard. Pool Villas include a private plunge pool. Offer Free one hour massage for 2 when staying 4 nights. Year round. Prices from £95 per person per night, including breakfast daily.

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LOMBOK and GILI TRAWANGAN Hotels

THE OBEROI LOMBOK ★★★★★

The Oberoi Lombok is a luxury hideaway with acres of tropical gardens and golden sands along a private beach. Lush rainforests, ocean views and beautiful beaches accompany you as you arrive at this idyllic resort. The Villas and Pavilions have thatched roofs, expansive shaded terraces to relax in and all feature spacious bedrooms with four-poster beds. Some villas have their own pool. Facilities include two restaurants, bar, gym, beautiful palm-fringed outdoor pool, watersports, library and a spa. Offer Receive 4 nights for the price of 3. Offer dates vary, call for details. Prices from £167 per person per night, based on room only.

HOTEL VILLA OMBAK ★★★★

The Hotel Villa Ombak, the first international hotel on the magical island of Gili Trawangan, features the traditional building style of Lombok, and its neighbouring islands, to blend harmoniously with the island's landscape. Set on a beautiful sandy beach. Accommodation ranges from budget hotel rooms to deluxe family bungalows. Facilities include a swimming pool, spa, diving academy, watersports, restaurant, cafe and choice of bars. Excursions to nearby islands including Lombok. Offer Receive 6 nights for the price of 5. Dates vary, call for details. Prices from £49 per person per night, including breakfast daily.

BALI

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THE 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 and 1 dinner • Air-conditioned vehicle • English-speaking guide Day 1 Arrival morning flight to Bali Drive to West Bali via Bedugul a mountain resort with its lush tropical vegetation, with hair pin road crossing down the hill of Gitgit. Lunch will be provided enroute. Accommodation: Mimpi Resort in a Patio Room Day 2 West Bali to North Bali Snorkeling 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 Superior Garden View room. Day 4 East Bali to Ubud Morning at leisure. After Lunch 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: Wapa di Ume in a Lanai Rice Terrace room for 2 nights.

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Day 5 Ubud Pick up from you hotel in Ubud for a morning adventure cycling Mount Batur. Break away from the main roads and discover hidden Bali along the paths and trails leading down from the volcanic Mount Batur.

Beginning with morning tea on the slopes of this still active volcano, the tour takes you down through sleepy villages, past ancient temples and along leafy lanes through the rainforest that graces the mountain slopes. Stopping at villages to experience traditional Bali life and concludes with lunch in the town of Ubud. An evening with the elephants. On arrival at the park you can interact and hand feed the elephants while enjoying the exotic botanical gardens. Then watch the “Elephant Talent Show” at sunset. Next it’s off to the jungle on your elephant chauffeur with a Safari Under the Stars before returning for a delicious 4 course dinner in a Palm Grove dining area. Day 6 Depart Bali Morning at leisure before your transfer to the airport. Or we can arrange further hotel accommodation to extend your stay.

Price from £775 per person, based on twin share.

BALI

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INDOCHINA

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INDOCHINA

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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 Gatwick. Bangkok and Kuala Lumpur are popular gateway points for access to almost all parts of Indochina. Flying time to the region is around 11-12 hours.

CHINA

Hanoi BURMA Luang Prabang

Halong Bay

LAOS Vientiane

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

Guide to the countries Hue Vietnam offers two outstanding cities in THAILAND Hoi An Saigon and Hanoi. The capital Hanoi in particular has retained much of its character and history and is the VIETNAM Angkor Wat gateway to one of the region’s most amazing sights; Halong Bay. CAMBODIA Nha Trang The beaches of Vietnam are becoming Phnom Penh more and more popular, with resorts Important to note Phan Thiet such as Hoi An, Phan Thiet and Nha British passport holders require a passport Saigon Trang, but there is so much more to valid for at least six months following the these areas, with impressive historical return date of the trip. Visas are required temples and busy, photogenic ports. individually for Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos. The World Heritage site of Angkor Wat, A 30 day visa for Vietnam can be arranged in Cambodia is famous for its beauty and advance and will cost approximately £55. splendour and a must-see on any Indochina itinerary. Luang You can contact the Vietnamese embassy in London to arrange this. Prabang, in the north of neighbouring Laos, is a tranquil town on the For Cambodia and Laos you can get a visa on arrival ($20 and $30), banks of the Mekong River, providing visitors with a taste of though for Cambodia it is preferable to obtain this in advance. authentic Asia. For Vietnam and Cambodia we recommend contacting www.thetravelvisacompany.co.uk or call 01270 250590. For vaccination requirements, please contact your doctor.

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

Hanoi Hoi An Saigon

Jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

May

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep

Oct

Nov

Dec

°C R 20 18 25 21 26 4

°C R 21 28 26 22 27 14

°C R 23 38 28 23 28 16

°C R 28 81 30 75 29 27

°C R 32 196 33 200 30 230

°C R 33 239 33 280 30 293

°C R 33 323 33 300 29 290

°C R 32 343 33 280 29 271

°C R 31 254 31 260 29 341

°C R 29 99 30 260 28 262

°C R 26 43 27 80 27 109

°C R 22 20 26 40 25 8

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THE BEST OF INDOCHINA 16 Day Private Tour

This 16 day Indochina highlights tour encompasses the very best of Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos. Travel south through Vietnam from Hanoi to Saigon, into Cambodia to discover the capital Phnom Penh and the majestic

Price includes • 15 nights hotel accommodation • Breakfast daily, 8 lunches and 1 dinner • Private touring as shown • Flights Hanoi-Hue, Danang-Saigon, Phnom Penh-Siem Reap, Siem Reap-Luang Prabang • Air-conditioned vehicles • English-speaking guides Day 1 Hanoi You will be met at the airport and transferred to your hotel for a two night stay.

Angkor Wat complex. The trip ends in magical Laos, with a stay in laid-back Luang Prabang. Departs daily. International flights are not included.

Day 2 Hanoi Enjoy a guided tour of Hanoi. A traditional cyclo tour through the narrow, ancient streets of the exotic Old Quarter is a great way to soak up the sights. Day 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 for a swim and enjoy lunch. Then return to Hanoi. Late afternoon flight to Hue.

Hanoi

Day 5 Hue - Hoi An Morning tour of historic Hue including the Citadel and former Imperial Palace. Then a spectacular five-hour drive via the Hai Van Pass to Hoi An.

Halong Bay

Luang Prabang LAOS Vientiane

Hue Danang Hoi An

THAILAND

Bangkok

Angkor Wat

VIETNAM CAMBODIA Phnom Penh Nha Trang

Saigon

INDOCHINA

Day 6 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 7 Hoi An - Saigon From Hoi An take a short flight to Saigon the cosmopolitan heart of Vietnam. Soak up the exotic atmosphere of this frenetic city with a guided tour of the main highlights. In the evening enjoy a dinner cruise on the Saigon River.

Day 8 Saigon - Cao Dai Temple - Cu Chi Tunnels Visit the fascinating Cao Dai Temple, home to a unique religion. Continue to the Cu Chi Tunnels before returning to the city. Day 9 Mekong Delta Visit Cai Be floating market. Continue cruising along the Mekong canals before lunch and overnight in Can Tho. Day 10 Can Tho - Chau Doc Visit a village which makes bamboo baskets. After lunch, walk around Chau Doc and see the bustling market. Continue to Sam Mountain for breathtaking views towards Cambodia. Day 11 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 12 Phnom Penh - Siem Reap Late morning transfer to the airport for your flight to Siem Reap. Spend the afternoon visiting the amazing and awe inspiring temples of Angkor. Day 13 Temples of Angkor Continue to explore the Angkor temples. Day 14 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 15 Luang Prabang Enjoy a morning tour of the atmospheric town of Luang Prabang. Day 16 Depart Luang Prabang Morning at leisure before your transfer to the airport to complete the itinerary. Prices Standard (4 star) from £2799 or Superior (5 star) from £3299. 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

Price includes • 11 nights hotel 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.

Hue, witness the spectacular scenery of the Hai Van Pass then relax in the charming fishing port of Hoi An with its sandy beaches.

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

End your tour in Saigon. International flights are not included. Departs daily.

Day 4 Hanoi to Hue Return to Hanoi for a flight to Hue. Met on arrival and transferred to your hotel.

Hanoi Halong Bay

LAOS

Hue Danang

THAILAND

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

Day 5 Hue to Hoi An Morning tour of Hue including the Imperial Citadel and Mu Pagoda. Scenic drive to Hoi An via the spectacular Hai Van Pass.

Hoi An

Bangkok

VIETNAM

Angkor Wat

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

Day 8 Hoi An to Saigon Transfer to Danang airport then morning flight to Saigon. Afternoon half day city tour includes the former Presidential Palace, the War Remnants Museum, Notre Dame Cathedral, the Post Office and finally Dong Khoi Street. 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 Chi Tunnels from £33 per person. Day 10 Saigon to The Mekong Delta Visit the colourful Cai Be floating market and local home factories on a relaxing cruise. After lunch enjoy a short walk along a narrow canal. Stay overnight in Can Tho. Day 11 The Mekong Delta to Saigon Up early for a visit to Cai Rang market. This is one of the largest floating markets in the Mekong Delta. A fascinating sight as goods are sold from a myriad of boats. Return to Saigon, arriving back late afternoon. Day 12 Depart Saigon Time at leisure before your airport transfer.

• Extend your tour with a 3 day 2 night add-on to spectacular Angkor Wat, located close to the city of Siem Reap in Cambodia. See page 111 for details and prices.

CAMBODIA Nha Trang

Saigon

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

Price Standard (4-star) from £1699. Superior (5-star) from £1939. Based on twin share.

INDOCHINA

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THE BEST OF VIETNAM & CAMBODIA 15 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.

Hanoi

LAOS

Hue Danang

Hoi An

Bangkok Angkor Wat

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, followed by a cyclo tour of the Old Quarter. Day 3 Halong Bay Cruise Drive to Halong Bay for a two day cruise. Begin with a seafood lunch, and then explore limestone caves. Relax in the afternoon on deck, go for a swim or try some kayaking. Day 4 Hanoi to Hue Return to Hanoi for a flight to Hue. Met on arrival and transferred to your hotel.

Halong Bay

THAILAND

Price includes • 14 nights hotel accommodation • Breakfast daily, 7 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 5 Hue to Hoi An Tour of Hue then scenic drive to Hoi An via the spectacular Hai Van Pass. There will be stops en route to take in the views of the coastline from this amazing vantage point.

VIETNAM

CAMBODIA Nha Trang Phnom Penh

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

Saigon

Day 7 Hoi An to Saigon Transfer to Danang

INDOCHINA

airport then morning flight to Saigon. Afternoon half day city tour includes the former Presidential Palace, the War Remnants Museum, Notre Dame Cathedral, the Post Office and finally Dong Khoi Street. Day 8 Cu Chi tunnels This labyrinth of tunnels is where the Viet Cong hid during the war. Today the remaining tunnels have become a tourist attraction, giving visitors a feel of what underground life was like during the war. Day 9 Saigon to The Mekong Delta Visit the colourful Cai Be floating market and local home factories on a relaxing cruise. After lunch enjoy a short walk along a narrow canal. Stay overnight in Can Tho. Day 10 Can Tho to Chau Doc Short journey to the border town of Chau Doc. Day 11 Chau Doc to Phnom Penh Board a speedboat for a 5-hour journey to Cambodia’s capital. Day 12 Phnom Penh Morning at leisure, then a city tour in the afternoon. Day 13 Phnom Penh to Siem Reap Flight to Siem Reap. Afternoon tour of Angkor Wat. Day 14 Temples of Angkor Morning or afternoon tour of Angkor Wat. Day 15 Depart Siem Reap At leisure before your transfer to the airport.

Price Standard (4-star) from £2299. Superior (5-star) from £2799. Based on twin share.

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HALONG BAY OVERNIGHT CRUISES

2 DAY RED DRAGON JUNK CRUISE

2 DAY PARADISE LUXURY JUNK CRUISE

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

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

Day 1 Hanoi to Halong Bay In the morning, transfer from your hotel in Hanoi to Halong Bay, about a 4 hour drive with a refreshment break en route. Meet the crew upon boarding the traditional wooden junk, then relax and enjoy lunch while the boat heads towards the secluded Bai Tu Long Bay. Visit ancient limestone caves and go sea kayaking and swimming if the weather permits. Return to the junk refreshed and invigorated and relax on deck with a drink to watch the sunset. Enjoy a freshly prepared seafood dinner under the stars. Day 2 Halong Bay to Hanoi Enjoy the fresh air and gentle breeze of the bay in morning. Cruise through Bai Tu Long, and visit the floating fishing village of Vong Vieng and learn about daily life here. Cruise back to the dock arriving in Halong around noon then transfer back to Hanoi, arriving at your hotel at approximately 4pm. Price from £289 per person based on twin share.

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Day 1 Hanoi to Halong Bay Early departure from your Hanoi hotel with a 4 hour drive to Halong, with a refreshment break en route. Board ‘Paradise’ junk on Tuan Chau Island and meet the crew. Enjoy a welcome cocktail and Asian buffet lunch while admiring the beautiful bay scenery. Spend the day cruising around the UNESCO heritage-listed bay. Go kayaking or swimming (weather permitting) or relax on the sundeck and enjoy the sunset over the islands as the boat arrives at its anchorage for the evening. There is a cooking demonstration. Dinner is a freshly prepared seafood feast and the evening entertainment includes movies, board games or spa treatments. Day 2 Halong Bay to Hanoi Awake to morning tai chi and a buffet breakfast and cruise to Ti Top - one of the most beautiful beaches of the bay. Climb 400 steps up to the top of the island for a breathtaking panoramic view of the bay before cruising back and returning to Hanoi around 2.30pm. Price from £289 per person, based on twin share.

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MEKONG DELTA HOTELS & CRUISE

★★★★

VICTORIA CAN THO RESORT 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.

Offer Receive a 5% discount for a 3 night stay. Year round.

2 DAY MEKONG DELTA CRUISE The Bassac is entirely built of wood, from the hull of an 80-footlong rice barge. She can accommodate up to 12 passengers in six nicely decorated cabins, each with air-conditioning and a private bathroom, and features a restaurant that opens all around, a large gallery, a small office room and 700 sq foot of sundeck. This is a great way to experience the Mekong Delta. Includes all meals. Departs daily.

Prices from £52 per person per night, including breakfast daily. Day 1 Saigon - Can Tho - Bassac Cruise Depart from the hotel in Saigon at 8:30am and transfer to Can Tho by road. Upon arrival, board the Bassac. 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.

★★★★

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.

Day 2 Mang Thit – Cai Be – Saigon Rise to the bustling sounds of the 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 back to Saigon.

Price from £369 per person, based on twin share.

Offer Receive a 5% discount for a 3 night stay. Year round. Prices from £44 per person per night, including breakfast daily.

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SAIGON TO ANGKOR RV JAYAVARMAN 12 Day Tour

Inspired by the golden age cruise liner Normandie, The Jayavarman is a 20th century boutique-style marvel marrying avant-garde French colonial design with enchanting Indochine architecture to perfection. The Jayavarman offers uncompromising luxury over 4 decks. Guest accommodation consists of 27 expansive and carefully designed staterooms with floor to ceiling panoramic sliding glass doors leading onto a private French balcony offering privacy and matchless luxury. Combine this 7 Night cruise with touring in both Saigon and

Price includes • 7 nights RV Jayarnman cruise; Saigon to Siem Reap • 2 nights in Saigon at The Caravelle Hotel • 2 nights in Siem Reap at Raffles Grand Hotel D’Angkor • Day tours in Saigon and Siem Reap • Breakfast daily throughout and all meals on the cruise Day 1 Arrive Saigon Met on arrival and transferred to The Caravelle Hotel for 2 nights. Day 2 Cu Chi Tunnels & Saigon tour Explore the maze of tunnels used by the Vietcong. After lunch, visit the city’s major attractions. Day 3 Saigon to My Tho Drive south to My Tho, on the upper Mekong River, to board the luxurious river cruiser, Jayavarman. Welcome cocktails and dinner on the Sun Deck. Drop anchor just outside My Tho for the night. Day 4 Cai Be – Chau Doc Cruise among traditional ‘sampan boats’ and witness Mekong Delta life. Then board a sampan and cruise past Cai Be’s floating markets. Bike ride or stroll, then dine inside an Indochinese villa. Cruise to Chau Doc. Moor overnight.

Angkor Wat for a 12 Day tour. Day 5 Chau Doc into Cambodia After breakfast go on a short ‘tricycle’ excursion in Chau Doc, followed by a walk to the local market. Go on a boat excursion through floating villages and visit a village that is home to a Muslim Cham community. Mid-afternoon cast off for the border towards Phnom Penh. Day 6 Phom Penh Approach Phnom Penh in the early morning. Enjoy a city tour of this historical capital of Cambodia. Later, enjoy dinner and a dance performance.

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Day 7 Phnom Penh to Kampong Cham Depart Phnom Penh before sunrise. Stop at the little known Chong Koh silk weaving village. Visit Wat Nokor, built within the ruins of an ancient temple. Visit Cheung Kok Ecotourism Village. Day 8 Kampong Cham to Wat Hanchey Journey upriver to the temple of Wat Hanchey offering some of the best views in Cambodia. Day 9 Kampong Cham to Tonle Sap Set sail pre-dawn to Kampong Chhnang via Prek K’dam along the Tonle Sap River. Walk through Kampong Louang, one of the last silversmith villages in the region. After lunch, take a motorboat excursion to see the wetlands, floating houses and fish farm. Stop at a floating school to interact with the children and practice English with them. In the evening a mouth watering farewell dinner will be served. Day 10 Tonle Sap to Siem Reap Tonle Sap Lake is over 150 km in length. Enjoy cruising through this tranquil environment as you make your way to Siem Reap. Itinerary may vary with seasons - ask us for details. Disembark and transfer to the Raffles Grand Hotel D’Angkor for a 2 night stay including breakfast daily. Day 11 Angkor Wat A full day to experience this World Heritage site, including the South Gate of Angkor Thom City, The Bayon, Baphuon Temple, The Royal Enclosure, Phimeanakas, the Terrace of Elephants, terrace of Leper Kings and the jungle-clad Ta Prohm. Day 12 Siem Reap departure At leisure, until you are transferred to the airport for your flight.

Prices £2499 per person based on twin share.

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SAIGON Travel Saigon is served by scheduled services from most Asian cities, with onwards connections from London. There are no direct flights from the UK. The airport is 4 miles north of the city, a 20-minute drive. We can arrange for you to be met on arrival and transferred privately to your hotel. From £8 per person. Attractions Visit the Reunification Palace; a symbol of the war and scene of the fall of Saigon in 1975. The Frenchstyle Central Post Office is interesting as it has changed very little over the decades. See the Notre Dame Cathedral, very much a landmark in Saigon.

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

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

Asia’s other cities in terms of development,

Saigon River

yet it still retails a French colonial flavour

SAIGON

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

Railway Station

pavement cafés and some of the most

City Hall

Reunification Palace

of restaurants. Fine Arts Museum

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delicious food in Asia with a good choice

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Ho Chi Minh Museum

Saigon River

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SAIGON Hotels

★★★★★

PARK HYATT SAIGON

CARAVELLE HOTEL

The luxurious Park Hyatt Saigon is one of the finest hotels in the city, located right in the heart of this bustling metropolis on Larn Son Square. Overlooking the elegant Opera House this 9 storey hotel is within walking distance to the cultural and historical sites of Saigon. The spacious, colonial style rooms offer either a city or stunning pool view. Facilities include a 20-metre outdoor pool set in pretty gardens, a spa, fitness centre, bar and a restaurant. Live Jazz in the lounge most evenings.

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

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

Prices from £162 per person per night, including breakfast daily.

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

★★★★

RENAISSANCE RIVERSIDE HOTEL SAIGON

LIBERTY CENTRAL HOTEL

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

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

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

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

Prices from £42 per person per night, including breakfast daily.

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

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

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

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

Red River

West Lake

Museum of Ethnology

Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum

Old Quarter

HANOI Thong Nhat Park

nearby and iconic Halong Bay is a must.

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HANOI Hotels

★★★★★

SOFITEL LEGEND METROPOLE HOTEL

INTERCONTINENTAL WESTLAKE HANOI

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

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

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

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

Prices from £109 per person per night, including breakfast daily.

Prices from £69 per person per night, including breakfast daily.

★★★★

SILK PATH HOTEL This newly-opened boutique hotel offers 106 rooms and a convenient location in Hanoi’s Old Quarter. Close by are attractions such as the Loan Kiem Lake, the night market and the Water Puppet Theatre. Rooms are comfortably appointed to a high standard. The hotel offers both a signature restaurant serving Asian and Vietnamese cuisines as well as a Mediterranean-style restaurant. Choice of bars. Hotel facilities include a fitness centre, spa and jacuzzi.

MAI CHAU LODGE 3-DAY SIDE TRIP

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

Mai Chau is only four hours away from bustling Hanoi but feels like another world. You are transferred into the lush mountains, home to remote hill tribes and visited by surprisingly few tourists. There is a range of activities including optional cycling tours through the valley, kayaking and guided walks to the local villages. This 3 day package includes 4 star accommodation, all meals and roundtrip transfers from Hanoi. Facilities include an outdoor pool and spa.

Prices from £46 per person per night, including breakfast daily.

Prices from £349 per person, based on twin share.

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HOI AN and DANANG Hoi An is an exceptionally wellpreserved example of a SouthEast Asian trading port dating from the 15th to the 19th century. Its buildings and its street plan reflect the influences that have combined to produce this unique heritage site. Hoi An offers a superb sandy beach, riverside cafes and restaurants and excellent shopping opportunities. Danang is the nearest airport to Hoi An, a 30-kilometre, 45minute drive and is served by scheduled flights from Hanoi, Saigon and Siem Reap, Cambodia. Attractions Visit My Son, a World Heritage site, 40 km southwest of Hoi An. Located in a lush valley. My Son was a capital and religious centre of the Cham people, now remaining with red brick towers and sanctuaries. My Son, is considered to be in the

same league as some of Southeast Asia's greatest archaeological sites. When to go The temperature is warm throughout the year (average 29째C), yet hotter during June and July and cooler around December. Hoi An is affected by monsoon winds with rain from September until January, and generally dry for the rest of the year. Overall, the best time to visit Hoi An and Danang is between May and June.

Hoi An is an exceptionally well-preserved example of a South-East Asian trading port dating from the 15th - 19th century. Its buildings and its street plan reflect the influences that have combined to produce this unique heritage site. Nearby Danang is the main hub with the airport as the gateway to the region and includes the golden sands of China Beach.

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HOI AN and DANANG Hotels

★★★★★

THE NAM HAI

VICTORIA HOI AN BEACH RESORT & SPA

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

The Victoria Hoi An Beach Resort enjoys a wonderful private beach front position, three miles from Hoi An. The resort replicates a traditional fishing village with small streets, water ponds and village houses with clay-tiled 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 a 5% discount when staying 7 nights or more. Year round.

Offer Receive a 5% discount for stays of 7 nights or more. Year round.

Prices from £230 per person per night, including breakfast daily.

Prices from £61 per person per night, including breakfast daily.

★★★★

★★★★★

ANANTARA RESORT HOI AN

FUSION MAIA DANANG

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.

Fusion Maia is a unique all-villa resort that dedicates itself to the art of relaxation. This unique property with its simple design, down-to-earth five-star service and surprising all spa-inclusive concept is located on China Beach between Danang and historic Hoi An (just a complimentary shuttle bus ride away). Treat yourself to a minimum of 2 treatments guaranteed per day, at no extra charge. Facilities include an infinity pool, gym, spa, restaurant, lounge and pool bar.

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

Offer Receive a 5% discount for stays of 10 nights or more. Year round.

Prices from £59 per person per night, including breakfast daily.

Prices from £160 per person per night, including breakfast daily.

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ISLAND RESORTS OF VIETNAM

CAMBODI A Phnom Penh

N ET

Saigon Phu Quoc

GUL F OF T HAI L AND

Con Dao

Set off the south-east coast of Vietnam the scenic island of Con Dao host the Six Senses Con Dao. Located just off the Vietnamese and Cambodian coastlines is the beautiful island of Phu Quoc. Both of these islands offer an ideal beach retreat at the end of a tour of Vietnam. Idyllic sandy beaches and a laidback atmosphere encourage visitors to spend anything from a few days to a fortnight on these shores.

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Travel Both islands are served with scheduled flights from Saigon. In addition for Phu Quoc there are also a limited number of flights from Can Tho in the Mekong Delta or Rach Gia. Flying time to both islands from Saigon is around 50 minutes. There is a speedboat service to Phu Quoc from Rach Gia. When to go November through to March is generally considered the

best time to visit these islands. Note that accommodation and flights are very busy for this period so advanced booking is highly recommended. April and May can be very hot and humid. The wet season really extends from July to September when you can expect some wild weather conditions. Temperatures are fairly consistent year round with day time temperatures around 30-32째C.

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ISLAND RESORTS OF VIETNAM

SIX SENSES CON DAO ★★★★★

Six Senses Con Dao is set in an area of outstanding natural beauty. The 50 villas sit along a mile of golden sand, looking out at the blue sea and curve of the bay and sheltered by darkly green forested mountains. The whole area has been protected as a nature and marine reserve for decades and its unspoilt beauty is home to many endangered and indigenous species. All villas include a private infinity pool. Styles range from single-level to duplex and offer one, three and four bedrooms. Offer Receive up to 2 nights free. Offer dates vary, call for details. Prices from £267 per person per night, including breakfast daily

LA VERANDA RESORT ★★★★

Located on Phu Quoc Island, La Veranda Resort, member of the MGallery collection, boasts a style reminiscent of a French seaside mansion. Set in tropical gardens on a beautiful stretch of beach, the resort boasts an evocative design comprising a rich blend of dark woods, fine linens and mosaic tiles, complemented by large terraces with sweeping views. In addition to 43 rooms with private balconies, La Veranda Resort features two restaurants, a lounge bar, swimming pool, water sports and a day spa. Offer Receive a 5% discount when staying 7 nights. Year round. Prices from £74 per person per night, including breakfast daily.

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ANGKOR WAT

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

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

Ta Prohm

Angkor Krau

Pradak

Angkor Thom

West Baray

Srah Srang

t or rp Ai

Angkor Wat

Trang

Siem Reap

SIEM REAP & ANGKOR WAT REGION

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Natio nal

High

way 6

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

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ANGKOR WAT Hotels

★★★★★

★★★★

RAFFLES GRAND HOTEL D’ANGKOR

NAVUTU DREAMS HOTEL RESORT & SPA

Since the early 1930s, a visit to the ancient temples of Angkor has been synonymous with a stay at Raffles Grand Hotel d'Angkor. Located in the heart of Siem Reap, a mere 8 kilometres away from the majestic Angkor Wat, guests will appreciate the old-world Cambodian grandeur infused with the best of modern comforts. Set within 15 acres of beautifully landscaped French gardens and offering a fine array of bars and restaurants and an award-winning spa.

The Navutu Dreams Hotel Resort & Spa, is a luxury boutique resort located in Siem Reap, minutes away from the beautiful Angkor Wat Archeological Park. Navutu Dreams opened its doors on the 1st of August 2012 and it is already considered one of the best Siem Reap hotels. Caters for a maximum of 36 guests in 18 spacious and beautifully decorated rooms allocated in 5 separate pavilions. Facilities include 2 pools, a kids pool, a yoga studio, spa, bar and restaurant.

Offer Receive a 5% discount when staying 4 nights or more. Year round.

Prices from £137 per person per night, including breakfast daily.

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

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

★★★★

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

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

tour of Angkor Wat Temple, easily

ANGKOR WAT 3-DAY PRIVATE TOUR

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

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

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

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

Prices from £189 at Victoria

accommodation.

Angkor and from £359 at Raffles

Rest of the day at leisure.

Grand Hotel D’Angkor.

Prices from £54 per person per night, including breakfast daily.

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BURMA

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BURMA

CHINA

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 Rangoon via Bangkok, with Malaysia Airlines via Kuala Lumpur and Singapore Airlines via Singapore.

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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.

Mandalay

Guide to the country Bagan Burma is a country of great beauty and Inle Lake diversity, dominated by lush mountain BURMA slopes covered with alpine forests in the far Ngapali north and steamy jungles in the south; broad flat plains in central regions like Rangoon BAY Bagan; the famous Irrawaddy River and over 1199 miles of coastline boasting some OF of Asia’s most stunning beaches. Your BENGAL 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 Rangoon. 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 and May, with little or no rain and temperatures between 30°C and

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 THAILAND 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 preferred 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. Credit cards are not widely accepted and there are no ATMs. LAOS

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

°C 20

R 3

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Feb °C 23

R 0

Mar

Apr

May

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep

Oct

Nov

°C R 28 16

°C R 32 14

°C R 32 151

°C R 30 110

°C R 30 77

°C R 29 99

°C R 29 127

°C R 28 152

°C R 24 25

Dec °C 21

R 2

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HIGHLIGHTS OF BURMA 9 Day Small Group Tour

Discover exotic Burma on this journey through its highlights. A land spiked with temples, with cities built on river edges and whole towns floating on a lake. Meet the friendly people of this charming land at markets, villages and monasteries, for an insight into life in a land which has been mostly cut off from Western influence for so long. Accommodation is in mainly 4 star hotels. This tour is on a private basis so there are no set

Price includes • 8 nights’ accommodation • All meals • English-speaking guide • Air-conditioned vehicles • Flights Rangoon-Bagan-Mandalay-HehoRangoon Day 1 Arrive Rangoon Upon arrival at Yangon International Airport, Our Myanmar Connection - Asia World guide will welcome you and you will be transferred to your hotel. Tonight meet your tour guide for a tour briefing. Hotel: Summit Park View – 2 nights Day 2 Rangoon sightseeing Highlights include: Sule Pagoda, Little India and China Town, the magnificent reclining Buddha and Royal Lake, one of the central Yangon’s greenest spots. After lunch visit Bogyoke Aung San Market and finally the spectacular Shwedagon Pagoda.

departure dates. International flight prices are not included in this itinerary.

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Day 3 Rangoon to Bagan Morning transfer to Yangon airport for your flight to Nyaung U. Stroll through the market and continue with a visit to Shwezigon Pagoda, Gbyaukgyi, Htilominlo and Ananda Temple. After lunch visit a traditional lacquer ware workshop then continue sightseeing at Thatbyinnyu Temple. Enjoy the magnificent sunset from one of the open terraces of Bagan Temples. Hotel: Thazin

Day 5 Bagan to Mandalay Transfer to Nyaung U airport for your flight to Mandalay. On the way to Mandalay visit the former capital of Amarapura, Mahagandayon Monastery and U Bein Teak bridge. In the afternoon enjoy sightseeing at Shwenandaw Kyaung, then, visit the 'world’s largest book' - the Buddhist Scriptures inscribed on marble slabs, and Kyaukdawgyi Pagoda. Enjoy views of Mandalay from the hill. Hotel: Mandalay City – 2 nights Day 6 Mandalay Highlights include a boat ride to the town of Mingun, Sagaing Hill, Inwa and a horse cart ride to Bagaya Monastery. Visit Nanmyint Watch Tower. Day 7 Mandalay to Inle Lake Morning transfer to Mandalay airport for your flight to Heho. Visit Nyaung Shwe, Shwe Yan Pyae Monastery, Inn Paw Khon and Phaung Daw Oo Pagoda, the holiest religious site in Southern Shan State, then continue to Nga Phe Kyaung Monastery. Hotel: Inle Resort – 1 night Day 8 Inle Lake to Rangoon After breakfast visit the floating market. Explore the ancient ruined pagodas at Indein. Fly from Heho to Rangoon. Hotel: Summit Park View – 1 night Day 9: Rangoon departure Morning at leisure before your onward flight.

Garden – 2 nights

Mandalay Bagan Inle Lake

BURMA

LAOS

Ngapali Rangoon THAILAND

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INDOCHINA

Day 4 Bagan After breakfast continue sightseeing at the famous Bagan Temples and Pagodas. In the afternoon visit Kyauk Gu U Min then return to the boat for a relaxing cruise back to Bagan (approximately 1 hour). In the late afternoon a horse-cart ride will take you among magnificent Temples and Pagodas.

Price from £1799 per person, based on twinshare.

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THE BEST OF BURMA 13 Day Private Tour

Your travels in the country will take in some of the most breathtaking rural and riverside scenery in the country. See the extraordinary temple studded plains of Bagan, the tranquil villages around lovely Inle Lake as well as the famous cities of Mandalay and Rangoon. 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.

CHINA Mandalay Bagan Kalaw

Inle Lake

BURMA

LAOS

Rangoon THAILAND

INSPIRED BY ASIA

Price includes • 12 nights’ accommodation • All meals • English-speaking guide • Air-conditioned vehicles • Flights Rangoon-Bagan-Mandalay-HehoRangoon Day 1 Arrive Rangoon Upon arrival at Yangon International Airport, our Myanmar Connection - Asia World guide will welcome you and you will be transferred to your hotel. Hotel: Summit Park View – 2 nights Day 2 Rangoon Sightseeing Highlights include: Sule Pagoda, Little India and China Town, the magnificent reclining Buddha, Royal Lake, Bogyoke Aung San Market and finally spectacular Shwedagon Pagoda. Day 3 Rangoon to Bagan Flight to Nyaung U. Visit the market, pagodas and temple. After lunch visit a traditional lacquer ware workshop, then Thatbyinnyu Temple. Enjoy the sunset from one of the open terraces of Bagan Temples. Hotel: Thazin Garden – 2 nights Day 4 Bagan A morning’s exploration of the famous temples and pagodas of Bagan. Visit Kyauk Gu U Min then enjoy a relaxing cruise back to Bagan. An afternoon horse-cart ride visits the magnificent temples and pagodas. Day 5 Bagan to Mandalay Transfer to Nyaung U airport for your flight to Mandalay. On the way to Mandalay visit the former capital of Amarapura, Mahagandayon Monastery and U Bein Teak bridge. Afternoon sightseeing of Shwenandaw Kyaung, then visit the 'world’s largest book' and Kyaukdawgyi Pagoda. Enjoy a view of Mandalay from the hill. Hotel: Mandalay City – 3 nights

Day 6 Sagaing and Inwa Morning visit to Sagaing, which is situated 21 km from Mandalay and on the other bank of the Ayeyarwaddy River and Sagaing hill. At Inwa enjoy a horse cart ride to Bagaya Monastery. Day 7 Mingun Morning transfer to the jetty for an hour's boat ride from Mandalay, along the Ayeyarwady River, to the little town of Mingun. Tour highlight includes Mingun pagoda (Phatodawgyi), Mingun bell, and beautiful Hsinbyume Pagoda. After that return to Mandalay by boat. Day 8 Mandalay to Kalaw Morning transfer to Mandalay airport for a flight to Heho. Drive to Pindaya and visit Pindaya cave, then proceed to Kalaw, a charming former hill station and forest. Hotel: Hill Top Villa Resort – 1 night Day 9 Kalaw to Inle Lake Visit Nyaung Shwe then journey by boat to explore the floating gardens, village life and magnificent scenery. Visit Inn Paw Khon and Phaung Daw Oo Pagoda. Then continue to Nga Phe Kyaung Monastery. Hotel: Inle Resort – 3 nights Day 10 Indein Visit the floating market and the beautiful ancient stupas. Day 11 Inle Lake trekking A day of easy trekking into villages beyond Inle Lake, home to some of Burma’s ethnic minorities. Day 12 Inle Lake to Rangoon Morning transfer to Heho airport for flight to Rangoon. Hotel: Summit Park View – 1 night Day 13 Depart Rangoon Morning at leisure before your airport transfer.

Prices from £2299 per person, based on twin share.

INDOCHINA

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

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

It is possible to travel around China independently, however we would recommend that you consider prebooking an escorted tour; the Englishspeaking guide will be able to give you so much more background to what you are seeing and will cover all the arrangements such as transport and accommodation.

BEIJING ★

Y ELLO W SEA Xian

Guide to the country Shanghai Beijing is a great starting point for your When to go China experience. A dynamic and China is a large country with a wide range EAST CHINA growing city, it offers a wealth of of climatic conditions. Spring (April to CHINA historical attractions such as the May) or autumn (September to October) SEA impressive Great Wall of China, the are good months for travelling in comfort. labyrinthine Forbidden City and the Summer is from June to August and is hot Kunming magnificent Temple of Heaven. throughout the country and particularly Guilin A stroll along Shanghai’s famous humid in the south. Hong Kong riverfront Bund shows the rapid pace at This is also the period that experiences which this city is moving. Contrast the the most rain. Winter (November to old-style Shanghai of Noel Coward with March) sees very cold conditions (below SOUTH CHINA the architecture of modern China and freezing) in Beijing and the north, but SEA pay a visit to the Water Village at comparatively mild in the south. Zhjiajiao near Shanghai. Away from the Important to note cities visit the Yangtze and Li Rivers for British passport holders must have a passport valid for six months incredible gorge scenery and enjoy the views on a Three Gorges from the last date of the trip. A visa is required and must be cruise, see the beautiful limestone peaks of Guilin and Yangshuo obtained well in advance from the Chinese embassy. Or call The that seem to rise up out of the mist and take time to experience the Travel Visa Company on 01270 250 590. The currency is Renminbi. Chinese countryside with a walk or cycle ride. See the famous For vaccination requirements please contact your local doctor. Terracotta Warriors at Xian, one of the country’s great sights.

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

Beijing Shanghai Hong Kong

Jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

May

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep

Oct

Nov

Dec

°C R -5 3 4 44 17 27

°C R -2 7 5 62 17 44

°C R 5 9 8 78 19 75

°C R 13 19 14 106 23 140

°C R 20 33 19 123 27 298

°C R 24 78 23 159 28 399

°C R 26 192 28 134 29 371

°C R 24 212 28 126 29 377

°C R 20 57 24 150 28 297

°C R 13 24 18 50 26 119

°C R 4 6 12 49 22 38

°C R -3 3 6 41 18 25

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CHINA

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HIGHLIGHTS OF CHINA 10 Day Private Tour

Start your journey in Beijing, home to ancient traditions and modern attractions. After experiencing the Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square and beyond, take an overnight train to Xian and discover the Terracotta Warriors. Encounter the bustling metropolis of Shanghai. 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 • Touring as shown • Beijing-Xian by overnight train • Flight Xian-Shanghai • English speaking guide

Day 5 Xian Enjoy a tour of Xian, a culturally important city. Accommodation: Meihua Golden Tang Hotel for 2 nights Day 6 Xian The Terracotta Warriors are Xian’s crowning glory. Enjoy a tour of this truly remarkable sight.

Day 1 Arrive Beijing Upon arrival in Beijing you will be met and transferred to your hotel. Accommodation: Novotel Beijing Xianqiao for 3 nights

Day 7 Shanghai Transfer to the airport this morning for your flight to the next exciting destination, Shanghai. Enjoy a tour of this buzzing, contemporary metropolis. Accommodation for 3 nights: Park Hotel

Day 2 Beijing Explore Beijing's fascinating hutongs by rickshaw, visit the Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square and the Drum Tower.

Day 8 Shanghai City tour of the main sights of the city. In the evening witness the impressive Chinese acrobats show.

Day 3 Beijing See the magnificent Great Wall of China at Mutianyu. Time to walk along the wall and enjoy the views.

Day 9 Shanghai Enjoy a walking tour through the backstreets of the Chinese Old Quarter. Time for shopping in the afternoon.

Day 4 Beijing See the iconic Temple of Heaven and impressive Summer Palace. Optional cruise on Kunming Lake. Then take the overnight train to Xian. Travel is in first class with soft sleeper four berth shared cabin.

Day 10 Depart Shanghai Morning at leisure before your transfer to the airport. Price from £1899 per person, based on twin share.

BEIJING ★

Xian Shanghai

CHINA

Hong Kong

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THE BEST OF CHINA 18 Day Private Tour

Experience the dramatic landscape of the Three Gorges of the Yangtze River. Get to know Beijing's secret hutongs, Shanghai's modern treasures, and spend time soaking up the spectacular scenery in Guilin and Longsheng. Accommodation is in 4 star hotels with breakfast included. This is a private tour so there are no set departure dates. International flights are

Price includes • 14 nights’ accommodation • 3 nights Yangtze cruise • Breakfast daily • Touring as shown • English-speaking guide • Train Beijing-Xian • Flights Xian-Guilin, Guilin-Chongqing, Yichang-Shanghai Day 1 Arrive Beijing Upon arrival in Beijing you will be met and transferred to your hotel. Tonight meet your tour leader (or local guide) for welcome drinks and a tour briefing. Hotel: Novotel Xinqiao - 3 nights Day 2 Beijing Explore Beijing's fascinating hutongs by rickshaw, visit the Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square and the Drum Tower. Day 3 Beijing See the Great Wall at Mutianyu with fewer tourists than other sites.

not included.

Day 4 Beijing Visit the Temple of Heaven, Planning Exhibition Hall and Summer Palace before taking the overnight train to Xian. Day 5 Xian Met on arrival and enjoy a tour of Xian. Hotel: UAA Hotel - 2 nights

BEIJING ★

Day 6 Xian The Terracotta Warriors are Xian’s crowning glory. Enjoy a tour of this truly remarkable sight.

CHINA Xian Yichang Chongqing

Shanghai

on the banks of the Li River, an inspiration to poets and painters for centuries. Hotel:

Yangshuo Regency - 2 nights Day 10 Yangshuo Cycle through Yangshuo's verdant rice paddies and absorb this quaint town's atmosphere and culture. Day 11 Yangshuo to Yangtze River Start the day with a relaxing tai chi lesson before flying from Guilin to Chongqing to board your cruise ship. Hotel: Victoria Grace - 3 nights Days 12-13 Yangtze River Cruise away from busy Chongqing and enjoy views of passing boats and stunning gorges. Day 14 Yangtze River to Shanghai The dam is an incredible undertaking that will leave you in awe. This morning, visit the Three Gorges Dam Site on shore before disembarking from the ship at Yichang and flying to Shanghai. Hotel: Park Hotel - 4 nights Day 15 Shanghai Experience the regal Bund, Yu Gardens, Shanghai Museum and Urban Planning Exhibition Centre. Day 16 Shanghai Enjoy a day-trip to Zhujiajiao, visit the Jade Buddha Temple and see a spectacular acrobatics performance. Day 17 Shanghai Visit the Propaganda Poster Arts Centre, explore the Old Chinese Quarter.

Day 7 Xian to Guilin Fly to Guilin to climb Fubo Hill and visit the Chinese Medicine Institute. Hotel: Universal Hotel - 2 nights

Day 18 Depart Shanghai Today transfer from your hotel to the airport for your onward flight.

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

Note: Cruise boats and itineraries may vary due to weather conditions and water levels.

Day 9 Guilin to Yangshuo Take a river cruise through the beautiful limestone mountains set

Price from £3239 per person, based on twinshare

Longsheng Guilin Yangshuo

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

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

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

Harbour City Shopping Centre

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

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Star Ferry Pier

HONG KONG 3 Victoria Park

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HONG KONG Hotels

★★★★★

HARBOUR GRAND HONG KONG

KOWLOON SHANGRI-LA, HONG KONG

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

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

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

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

Prices from £67 per person per night, based on room only.

Prices from £126 per person per night, based on room only.

★★★★

★★★★★

METROPARK HOTEL CAUSEWAY BAY

HARBOUR GRAND KOWLOON

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

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

Offer Receive free breakfast daily for 3 nights stay. Offer dates vary.

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

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

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

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SINGAPORE

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

3 1

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

National Museum and Art Gallery

along with some fantastic cuisine. Be sure

4 City Hall

to check out Chinatown, Boat Quay and

Marina Bay Golf Course

Raffles Place

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

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SINGAPORE Hotels

★★★★★

SHANGRI-LA HOTEL, SINGAPORE

SWISSOTEL THE STAMFORD

Consistently ranked as one of the top luxury hotels in Asia, Shangri-La Hotel, Singapore sits amidst 15 acres of lush gardens. It is a rarity to have such space in the city, just a short stroll from Orchard Road. There are 747 luxury rooms and suites in three distinctive wings; the contemporary Tower Wing, the newly renovated tropical Garden Wing (pictured) and the exclusive Valley Wing. Facilities include free wi-fi, an outdoor pool, 24hr gym, spa, sauna and choice of restaurants.

The luxury Swissotel The Stamford, one of the tallest hotels in Southeast Asia, is located in the heart of the city, amidst world-class shopping, entertainment and the Singapore central business district. Facilities include 11 restaurants and five bars, two outdoor swimming pools, six tennis courts, a spa and a state of the art fitness club.Classic rooms are spacious and can accommodation up to 2 adults and 2 children in two double beds. All rooms enjoy superb city views.

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

Offer Free room upgrade for 5 nights stays. Dates vary call for details.

Prices from £125 per person per night, based on room only.

Prices from £100 per person per night, based on room only.

★★★★

TRADERS HOTEL, SINGAPORE

PARK HOTEL CLARKE QUAY

Traders Hotel, Singapore is located near the Botanic Gardens and the fashionable Orchard Road shopping area and is connected to the Tanglin Mall, offering an extensive range of shops, restaurants and bars. A free shuttle bus within the city is provided. Facilities include a fitness centre with a 24hr gymnasium, sauna, steam bath, massage, spa treatments, heated whirlpool, a 30 metre outdoor swimming pool, children’s pool, a bar and restaurants. Complimentary wired internet and Wi-Fi access.

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

Offer Receive 3 nights for the price of 2. Conditions apply. Call for details.

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

Prices from £85 per person per night, based on room only.

Prices from £84 per person per night, based on room only.

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JAPAN

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

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THE BEST OF JAPAN 10 Day Private Tour

A journey for those who want to take in the highlights of Japan, contrasting visits to modern Tokyo and timeless Kyoto, with stays in rustic Takayama and in a Japanese inn located in Hakone.

Price includes • 8 nights’ accommodation • 1 night Ryokan accommodation • 9 breakfasts and 1 dinner • Touring as shown • English-speaking guide • Train journeys as shown

Day 6 Kanzawa – Kyoto Morning sightseeing by local bus with your guide. Then train to Kyoto where you’ll be met and transferred to your hotel. Hotel: New Miyako Hotel – 4 nights.

Day 1 Arrive Tokyo You will be met on arrival and transferred by shared shuttle bus service to your hotel for 2 nights.

Hotels are mainly of a 4 star standard with en suite bathrooms, air-conditioning and TV. This tour is on a private basis so you can choose the departure date to suit you. International flights are not included.

Day 3 Tokyo to Hakone via Mt Fuji Visit Mt Fuji’s 5th station, the Hakone Ropeway, the Owakudani boiling valley, enjoy a boat cruise on Lake Ashi, an `Onsen` hot spring and a traditional Japanese dinner at a ryokan. Hotel: Ryokan in Hakone – 1 night Day 4 Hakone – Takayama Your driver will take you to Odawara Station then travel by train to Nagoya Station and on to Takayama. Sightseeing of Takayama on foot with a guide. Highlights include; Yatai Kaikan, Kusakabe Folklore Museum and Kami-Sannomachi walking. Hotel: Hida Hotel Plaza – 1 night

SEA OF J A PA N J A PA N

Hiroshima

Day 2 Tokyo Tour the city using public transport with your guide. Highlights include; Tsukiji Fish Market, Hama-Rikyu Garden and tasting Japanese tea, Sumida River Cruise, Asakusa Kannon Temple & Nakamise shopping arcade, Meiji Shrine, Harajuku fashion street.

Takayama TOKYO Mt Fuji ★ Kyoto Hakone Nara

PA C I F I C OCEAN

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Day 5 Takayama – Kanazawa Morning visit to Takayama Market. Travel by bus to Shirakawago and visit the observatory and Wada Residence. Then continue by bus to Kanazawa. Hotel: ANA Crowne Plaza Hotel – 1 night

Day 7 Kyoto Full day sightseeing including the Kinkakuji Temple (Golden Pavilion, pictured, above), Nijo Castle, Higashiyama area, Kiyomizu Temple, Gion district and Ponto-cho Street. Day 8 Hiroshima Day trip to Hiroshima by train. Met on arrival and tour as follows; Itsukushima Shrine at Miyajima Island, Peace Memorial Park and Museum. Day 9 Nara Half day tour of Nara including: Todaiji Temple (Great Buddha), Nara deer park, Kofukuji Temple. Afternoon at leisure in Kyoto. Day 10 Depart Time at leisure before your transfer to Kansai Airport. Price from £3499 per person, based on twin share.

JAPAN

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Inspired by Asia is happy to recommend The Travel Visa Company Ltd, one of the UK's top visa specialists. Their staff maintain good relations with the various Embassies, High Commissions and Consulates located in London, Birmingham and Manchester. What’s more, because they use their own couriers to collect the visas when they are ready, the Travel Visa Company Ltd is able to closely track the progress of their clients’ visa applications to provide a friendly and personalised service.

YOUR VISA REQUIREMENTS For Thailand, Malaysia, and Japan British passport holders do not require a visa for these destinations, unless staying for more than 30 days. Laos British passport holders must obtain the visa on arrival. This can be done at both Vientiane and Luang Prabang Airports as well as the main border crossings. A tourist visa will be valid for 30 days and costs US$35. One passport-sized photograph is also required. Vietnam British passport holders require a visa to visit Vietnam and a visa must be obtained before you depart the UK. Visas take 6 working days to issue in Embassy, although there is a 3 day express service. Standard visas cost £55 and Express visas cost £85. The Travel Visa Company service charge for either visa is £40. You can apply for a Vietnam visa up to 6 months before you travel and they are issued for 30 days from the specified date of entry. Please allow 1015 working days total processing time.

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Cambodia British passport holders require a visa to visit Cambodia, which can be obtained on arrival or before you travel. Visas take 5 working days to issue in Embassy, cost £15 and the Travel Visa Company service charge is £45. You can apply for a Cambodian visa up to 3 months before you travel. Once issued, the visa is valid for 3 months with a maximum stay in the country of 30 days. Please allow 10-15 working days total processing time.

Burma 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 6 months beyond the date of your departure from Burma. Once issued, the visa is valid for 3 months with a maximum stay of 28 days in the country. A visa is £15, with The Travel Visa Company service charge an additional £44.

China British passport holders require a visa to visit China and a visa must be obtained before you depart the UK. Visas take 4 working days to issue in the Embassy. Standard visas cost £66 and The Travel Visa Company charge is £30. You can apply for a China visa up to 3 months before you travel. Once issued the visa is valid for 3 months with a maximum stay in the country of 30 days. Please allow 10-15 working days total processing time.

Important to note Please ensure your passport has at least six months validity remaining from the return date of your trip. Embassy fees can vary, depending on the type and validity of the visa requested. All service charges quoted are excluding VAT and correct at the time of publishing.

The Travel Visa Company call 01270 250 590 or visit:

www.thetravelvisacompany.co.uk

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