Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos & Myanmar Brochure 2017 by House of Travel

Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos & Myanmar

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Welcome. At House of Travel, we strive to create the best holiday for you at the best value – that’s our service guarantee. We understand everyone has different travel needs and that’s why we love it when you bring your ideas to us because together, with our experience and local knowledge, we can create the perfect holiday at the perfect time for you. We use the same travel sites you do, like Expedia, and many more that you can’t access. Plus, we have direct relationships with airlines and hotels around the world, which gives us extra buying power. We combine this with our expertise and negotiating skills to deliver some of the best deals and bonuses on offer that you might miss if you booked yourself. So, we promise to truly deliver the best of both worlds and that’s our guarantee. We’ve helped create enriching travel experiences for 1.8 million New Zealanders over the last thirty years. We understand that travel isn’t just about the place you go, it’s where that place takes you.

The best holiday for you.

At the best value.

What this means: We’ll combine your ideas with our experience and expertise to deliver you the best holiday possible.

What this means: We’re committed to providing the holiday you want at the very best value possible.

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We promise to utilise all our buying power to search out a great price for your holiday. We know value means different things to different people, so we take the time to understand what’s important to you.

The best holidays are created together. Let’s chat.

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Active Asia

House Of Travel and Active Asia Working Together At House of Travel we went in search for a travel solution that provides our customers the best Indochina has to offer. We wanted to work with a reputable company that has knowledge and expertise with inspiring group tours and tailor made itineraries to meet your travel dreams. We wanted the reassurance that the best service was provided as well as the best accommodation and touring options. House of Travel are pleased to have joined a partnership with Active Asia in New Zealand. With 18 years in the business, Active Asia operate their own office in New Zealand, Vietnam and Cambodia, this means we have staff on the ground where it matters most â&#x20AC;&#x201C; in the country you are travelling. We can create the most rewarding, stimulating and inspirational itineraries for you, with expert local English speaking guides who are professional yet fun. Active Asia support locally owned hotels and communities and have reputable partners in Cambodia, Laos and Myanmar. We know that with their specialist approach and professional team, your journey to this magical part of the world will be a memorable one.

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FLY THROUGH SINGAPORE. FAST- FORWARD TO SOUTHEAST ASIA. Singapore Airlines operates 18 weekly services from New Zealand, offering customers seamless connectivity through its Changi hub across the Singapore Airlines and SilkAir combined global network to over 100 cities in 34 countries - including Hanoi, Danang, Ho Chi Minh City, Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, Luang Prabang, Vientiane, Mandalay City, Yangon. Experience the highest standards of comfort, service and innovation across all cabin classes*, in what is one of the world’s youngest and most modern commercial fleet in operation. Singapore Airlines - operating daily flights to Singapore from Auckland and Christchurch, and four times weekly from Wellington via Canberra.

* product shown applies to Singapore Airlines-operated services only and may differ according to operating aircraft type, route flown. Premium Economy only available ex-AKL

Economy Class

• 10.6” wide LCD screen with on demand Audio-Video • Ergonomically designed seat • 30kg baggage allowance

Premium Economy Class

• 13.3” HD enabled touchscreen monitor • Generous 38-inch pitch, 8-inch recline • 35kg baggage allowance, priority checkin and boarding

Business Class

• 15.4” LCD, noise cancelling earphones • Spacious 30-inch wide seat, direct aisle access • Seat conversion into 76” fully flat bed

Index Vietnam Myitkyina

CHINA

Chindwin River

6-39

Cambodia

40-47

Laos

48-53

Myanmar

54-62

Ayeyawady River Hakha Sapa

Mandalay Phongsali

MYANMAR Inle Lake

Hanoi Mai Chau

Ban Houaykay

Naypyidaw

Pakbeng

Halong Bay

Ninh Binh

Luang Prabang

Xieng Khuang

Ngapali Beach

Vang Veng

Ayeyawady River

LAOS

Vientiane Bago

Thakhek

Yangoon

Savannakhet

THAILAND

Hue Danang

Saravan

Hoi An

Champasak

Bangkok

CAMBODIA

Rattanak Kiri

VIETNAM

Siem Reap Battambang

Tonle Sap Lake

Kampong Cham

Nha Trang

Phnom Penh Mui Ne

Sihanoukville Kampot

Sa Dec

Koh Rong Archipelago

Phu Quoc Island

Can Tho

Ho Chi Minh City My Tho Mekong Delta

Accommodation Guide

Climate Guide

Active Asia supports locally owned operators. Look for this symbol.

Hot

Good accommodation with additional facilities North Vietnam

Considered amongst the regions top hotels and resorts, these properties offer the best facilities and service.

Central Vietnam

Group Tours

Dry & Hot

Wet & Warm

Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

A higher standard of quality giving extra touches of comfort

Note: Only a sample of our preferred hotels are featured in this brochure. We offer many more, so please let us know your requirements. All hotel prices include breakfast.

Cooler

South Vietnam Cambodia Laos Myanmar

Weather: Although temperatures vary throughout South East Asia, there are predominantly two seasons the “Dry Season” brings warm to very hot days while the monsoon or “Wet season” will vary from hot to warm and the frequency of rainfall varies from sporadic to frequent.

Phone: + 64 9 360 7669 Email: sales@activeasia.co.nz

Xin Chao Vietnam! Breathtakingly beautiful, Vietnam is a country on the move. Fast, energetic and resilient by nature, it is rapidly emerging as one of the latest hotspots of Asia. A fun country to explore, the culture is rich, the scenery majestic and the locals are friendly.

Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam, is a bustling

limestone karsts rising from the seascape.

city with a French influence. Dive into

In Central Vietnam, Hue sits on the Pearl

the backstreets and explore with a flurry

River and resonates with the glories of an

The beach areas of Nha Trang and

of noise, scooter horns, bicycle bells

Imperial past. From here, travel the winding

Mui Ne offer a relaxing solitude from the

and vendors selling goods. Blessed with

Hai Van Pass – a mountainous stretch of

historic areas whilst Ho Chi Minh City, still

natural beauty, travel from Hanoi inland to

road leading into Danang where photo

often referred to as Saigon, is a chaotic yet

the dramatic scenery of Mai Chau; north

opportunities abound. Not only offering

modern city. The gateway to the Mekong

to the cascading rice terraces of Sapa

remarkable remnants of the war years,

Delta, the city is a hive of activity.

and the colourful ethnic markets; or to

Danang also boasts a beautiful coastline

Having been occupied by the Chinese,

the coast – Halong Bay with its craggy

with pristine white sands. Leading into Hoi

French and Americans – brutal imprints

An and its golden hued buildings, many are left spellbound by this quaint town.

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Sapa

Hanoi

Halong Bay

Mai Chau Ninh Binh

Hue Danang Hoi An

VIETNAM

Nha Trang

Mui Ne Sa Dec Phu Quoc Island

have been left on the Vietnamese story but also creating a rich cultural smorgasbord - evident not only in architecture but the flavours of Vietnamese cuisine. With many UNESCO World Heritage Sites, breath-taking scenery, beautiful beaches, an abundance of shopping and a delectable cuisine â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Vietnam is a kaleidoscope of cultural and sensory contrasts; Vietnam has it all and will no doubt impress.

Can Tho

Ho Chi Minh City My Tho Mekong Delta

HANOI

HANOI Made up of five distinct districts, this capital city has a fascinating mix of old and new. At its heart is the historic and renowned Old Quarter, often referred to as “36 Streets”. The area is a commotion of narrow streets once arranged by trade. The best way to explore is to wander through the alleyways discovering boutique stores, cafes and local shop houses along the way. Hoan Kiem District can be considered the commercial core and it’s here you’ll come across the peaceful Hoan Kiem Lake. The French Quarter is a tree-line boulevard with elegant villas reflective of the French rule many centuries ago, whilst the West Lake District is fast becoming the fashionable new hub with exclusive luxury hotels. The intricate history of Hanoi however is found in the Ba Dinh District, here the city’s most important and cultural monuments can be found. There is no denying that Hanoi is a city with distinctive character, be it the tall and narrow buildings, the flurry of noise to the wafts of delicious street food.

May de Ville Old Quarter

Tirant Hotel From

Silk Path Hotel From

$57

$70

Located in the heart of Hanoi’s Old Quarter just a block away from Hoan Kiem Lake, a stay at this hotel makes shopping and exploring the city’s sights enjoyable and convenient. Guest rooms offer unique Vietnamese contemporary décor creating a gentle ambience. After a day of exploring take a refreshing dip in the swimming pool or head to Le Soleil Bar on the 10th floor with a splendid city view and contemporary design offering a wide range of beers, wine, spirits and soft drinks.

Just a short stroll from Hoan Kiem Lake and Hanoi’s famous water puppet theatre, this hotel is ideally located in the historic Old Quarter. Great for families, well-appointed guest rooms are comfortable and offer interconnecting rooms. Offering 360° panoramic views of the city, enjoy the rooftop at Skyline Lounge, or after a day out, unwind and sit pool side. For those who prefer pampering, head to Ciel Spa offering a range of treatments blending the best of oriental techniques and Vietnam herbal secrets.

Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi

Lotte Hotel

From

$251

Steps away from the Opera House, this French colonial style hotel has been one of Hanoi’s legendary landmarks since its establishment. Savour legendary cuisine at Le Beaulieu, offering French haute cuisine and the sommelier’s fine wine pairings or taste authentic Vietnamese in the Spices Garden. Retire for the night with guestrooms spread amongst two wings; the original grandeur preserved historical Metropole Wing or the neo-classic elegant Opera Wing, all rooms featuring Sofitel’s signature My Bed™.

From

$80

Nestled at one of the busiest arteries of the Old Quarter, Hang Bong Street, this hotel offers great access to the city’s famous landmarks. Although modern in design, guest rooms feature opulent fabrics and hand printed wallpapers giving each room a personal touch. Offering a blend of cuisine, choose from two restaurants with monthly signature dishes and authentic Hanoi flavours. With a refreshing drink in hand, set in an open-air area, the Terrace Café is an ideal place to people watch the myriad of traffic.

From

$168

Situated in the upper part of the 65 storey Lotte Centre, this hotel is conveniently located between Hanoi’s Old Quarter and the new business district providing access to the city’s rich cultural history and the promising future of Hanoi.

Elegant and modern, each luxurious guest room offers panoramic views of Hanoi. Combining local ethos and cuisine with dishes from around the world, each one of the hotel’s restaurants has its own unique atmosphere and setting including Tim Ho Wan, the first Michelin starred Dim Sum House in Vietnam. Pharaoh’s Bar & Upper offers small bites and hand-crafted cocktails whilst perched at the rooftop of the hotel is Top of Hanoi, offering a spectacular panoramic view of the skyline with a modern brasserie style cuisine. This will certainly be a place that is worth splurging on and a place you can fully unwind.

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Duration: 1.5-2 hrs Price from $27pp

Duration: 5 hrs Price from $82pp

Duration: 2 hrs Price from $53pp

Concierge Welcome Good Morning Hanoi! Heritage Hanoi If you’re new to Hanoi or Vietnam and unsure Rise early and see Hanoi in a different light Take a glimpse into the history of Hanoi with of places of interest, the best eateries in town, where to exchange money, how to barter correctly, then this Concierge Welcome is for you. A guide will meet you for an orientation of the city, giving you a brief introduction from a local perspective and will be able to answer any questions you may have. Learn the most invaluable insight to Vietnam – how to cross the street! You’ll receive a welcome pack and be taken on a short walk to Hoan Kiem Lake.

Duration: 3 hrs Price from $29pp

as you observe the city come alive. The streets are quiet to begin, a rare sight in Hanoi and as the morning unravels, watch as the locals begin their day. Enjoy the crisp morning air as you walk around Hoan Kiem Lake, a popular spot where locals partake in daybreak exercises, Tai Chi and catch up with friends. Next, head to the bustling local market where Hanoians trade their goods for the day. End your tour at a street side café.

a visit to the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum where the embalmed body of the late president was laid to rest after his death. Visit the Ho Chi Minh Museum, followed by the historic One Pillar Pagoda. Other highlights include the Temple of Literature; the first university in Vietnam originally constructed in 1070 and recently rebuilt in 2000 with the main purpose to remind the youth of Vietnam to try and study as their ancestors did. Also visit a temple dedicated to Confucius

Duration: 2 hrs Price from $103pp

Duration: 3 hrs Price from $96pp

Ancient City Walking Tour Cyclo City Experience Hanoi Cooking Class The Old Quarter in Hanoi is over 1,000 It is no secret that the streets of Hanoi are Vietnamese cuisine is globally known for its years old and today still retains much of the old essence that made the area special in earlier times. With local houses narrowly built and close together, people live upstairs while running a family business at street level. Walk through these amazing alleys and gain a fascinating insight into an old age traditional way of life at the heart of Hanoi – a great introduction tour to the city.

Duration: 8-9 hrs Price from $185pp

full of commotion, so what better way is there to explore Hanoi other than joining the locals on the road. Discover Hanoi by cyclo – a traditional three wheeled bicycle taxi. Sit back and relax as your cyclo driver navigates you through the Old Quarter, renowned for its lively buzz. Prior to your cyclo ride, you’ll also visit the Museum of Ethnology with exhibits depicting all aspects of the lives, customs and activities of the 54 ethnic groups of Vietnam.

diversified flavours and freshness. Partake in a cooking class with KOTO to learn the secrets of Vietnamese food and culture. An accredited hospitality program, KOTO (Know One Teach One) gives special young people the start in life that everyone deserves. KOTO has grown from a small sandwich shop to a 120-seat restaurant. Choose from a morning or afternoon cooking class with a variety of menus to choose from including vegetarian options. Receive recipes from the dishes prepared followed by a shared meal.

Duration: 3 hrs Price from $80pp

Duration: 1.5 hrs Price from $49pp

Perfume Pagoda Hanoi Street Food Tour Water Puppet Show Depart Hanoi for a visit to the Perfume If you are a bit dubious or nervous to try the Discover the beauty Pagoda, set amongst limestone cliffs of Huong Son Mountain. Travel through the rural countryside before boarding a river boat for a scenic journey along the Yen Stream as there are no roads leading to the pagoda. Stop at Trinh Temple, after which climb up the mountain to the main grotto of Huong Tich where each stalactite and stalagmite has its own legend. Visit a handicraft silk village on the trip back to Hanoi.

much talked about Hanoi street food, then this is the way to do it. Walk through the bustling streets, as your guide explains the cuisine and points out sights along the way. Gain an insight into the intricacies of Vietnamese food culture including details on ingredients and popular northern dishes. Stop at several establishments along the way where you will have the opportunity to try local dishes.

*All prices are per person, twin share, based on low season including breakfast

of this uniquely Vietnamese performance art. A range of traditional legends and historical tales are among the enchanting puppet plays performed at this popular theatre in Hanoi. The puppets are made from wood, highly lacquered and are attached to long sticks. The puppeteer stands waist deep in water, giving the illusion that the puppets are walking on water. The show is accompanied by musicians who play traditional Vietnamese music on instruments such as drums, gongs, cymbals, horns and flutes.

HANOI SIGHTSEEING

HAnoi

HANOI SIGHTSEEING

HANOI

Duration: 10.5 HRS Price from $222pp

Mai Chau Day Tour Escape Hanoi for a

scenic journey to the province of Hoa Binh. The road into the mountains affords some fantastic views of terraced fields, rice paddies, and traditional thatch-roofed houses. Descending into a picturesque valley you will arrive at the village of Mai Chau – home to people of the Thai minority. Here you will have the opportunity to explore the village and experience first-hand the way of life of the village people.

Duration: 8 HRS Price from $262pp

TeaDiscover Plantation by Bicycle the traditional countryside

of Vietnam by bicycle exploring the widespread tea culture. Your cycling adventure begins in the popular tea growing area of Tan Cuong. Cycle through traditional villages, rice fields, Nui Coc Lake famous for its picturesque scenery and via tea plantations where we will see the tea harvested. A tea expert will explain the life cycle of tea processing including its history, traditions and family stories.

Duration: 9.5 hrs Price from $213pp

Duration: 8 HRS Price from $183pp

Ninh Binh Day Tour Duong Lam Village Take a two hour journey to Ninh Binh, a Travel west of Hanoi to Duong Lam Village, a former ancient capital where the remaining two temples of Dinh King and Le King remain. Cycle through the countryside to Tam Coc - known as Halong Bay on Land (16km). After lunch, relax in a small bamboo boat as you are rowed through the rice fields, caves and mountain ranges - a stunning natural landscape. Late afternoon visit Bich Dong Cave Pagoda built in 1428.

Duration: 8 HRS Price from $234pp

purely agricultural village of the Northern Red River Delta that still preserves many hundredyear-old houses. Visit Mong Phu Temple in Mong Phu commune - the only hamlet whose original village entrance remains intact. Continue through the narrow alleys to see the old laterite houses which make up this charming village along with visits to historic pagodas and temples. Enjoy lunch in a 100-year old house.

Duration: 4 HRS Price from $135pp

Handicrafts Villages by Bicycle SilkDriveVillage On this tour, cycle via country roads and visit to the Tram Gian Pagoda, built more traditional family craft villages. Drive northeast across the Red River to the 1,000 year old Bat Trang Ceramic Village – view how ceramic is produced both in a traditional and modern way. From here begin cycling through villages enjoying the peaceful countryside with the river meandering through. Enjoy lunch with a local family before visiting local artisans to learn about traditional Vietnamese paintings.

than 500 years ago. Follow the ancient staircase to the Bell Tower with its beautiful tiled roof and intricately carved columns. Walk to “Noodle Village” where noodles are made from powdered arrowroot. Continue to the Silk Village that supplies all the silk to the Northern Markets. Witness the weaving, dying and drying of silk – although affordable today, for centuries silk was considered a luxury commodity.

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Here over 1,600 towering limestone karsts and rock island formations jut from the sea creating a breath-taking panorama. With majority of the islands uninhabited this is nature at its best. Just over a four hour drive from Hanoi, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is best enjoyed on an overnight cruise. There are an array of vessels and options to choose from suiting all kinds of budgets - sail on a traditional junk style boat to a luxurious fitted, bells and whistles cruise. Enjoy on board activities and off shore excursions with plenty of time to relax in between. Partake in a misty morning Tai Chi lesson or a fun-filled cooking class, savour freshly caught seafood, swim in the emerald waters or kayak through the caves. No matter what type of experience you choose, Halong Bay promises a lifetime of memories and should not be missed from any Vietnam itinerary! Halong City

Halong Bay

Bai Tu Long Bay

2days/1NIGHT

Titov Island

INCLUDES

Vung Vieng Surprise Grotto

Return transfers from Hanoi, cabin accommodation, all meals and excursions

Dong Tien Lake

Lom Bo Islet

Cat Ba Island

Bhaya Cruise Constructed in a classic, oriental style whilst

Ba Trai Dao Beach

incorporating modern facilities, the Bhaya Classic offers 15-20 cabins creating informal, yet warm spaces promoting a convivial atmosphere on board. Thoughtfully designed cruise routes allow for either an overnight experience or a two-night cruise. Apart from relaxing and admiring the scenery on board, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll also be given the opportunity to learn about Vietnamese culture including the popular cooking demonstration, the chance to participate in a traditional tea ceremony, explore fascinating formations in the depths of a cave, paddle a kayak to find hidden lagoons, and allow a sunrise Tai Chi session to slow down time for just a bit.

Viet Hai Village

Lan Ha Bay

3days/2NIGHTS

2days/1NIGHT

Return transfers from Hanoi, cabin accommodation, all meals and excursions

INCLUDES

The Au Co Cruise Possessing a white old French architectural

FROM $320

FROM $899

exterior, savour the fantastic scenery of Halong Bay on board The Au Co, boasting 32 spacious cabins each with panoramic balconies. From the decoration of the ship to the quality of dining service, through to the range of activities available, The Au Co is designed to allow guests to get a true sense of Vietnam. Enjoy an exclusive three-day cruise deep into the heart of the Gulf of Tonkin, experiencing the stunning scenery of all three beautiful bays. Enquire about a 45 minute Hanoi to Halong Bay premium seaplane journey plus a 15 minute scenic tour over Halong Bay â&#x20AC;&#x201C; only available when booking The Au Co cruise.

INCLUDES

Oriental Sails With the beauty of Halong Bay as a backdrop,

FROM $259

sail aboard the ancient Vietnamese style, Oriental Sails. Featuring 18 traditional styled cabins, the junk boasts rattan and wooden furnishings with a multitude of windows for amazing views and a panoramic sundeck to relax on. A great option for families, the Oriental Sails also features interconnecting cabins. Take the family aboard for either an overnight experience or a twonight cruise. Explore dazzling caves formed by years of coastal erosion, kayak and swim in the fresh water, take part in the on board cooking class, try your hand at night squid fishing and catch the morning view of seascapes. These are just some of the memories that will last you a lifetime.

*All prices are per person, twin share, based on low season including breakfast

Halong Bay Cruises

HALONG BAY With Hanoi as a base, head to the coast and admire the spectacular scenery of Halong Bay in the Gulf of Tonkin.

North Vietnam River Cruise

HALONG BAY & THE RED RIVER Traverse the Red River Delta and its main tributaries aboard the RV Angkor Pandaw as you explore the key sites of Northern Vietnam. Connecting the wonders of Halong Bay and beyond with its dramatic limestone islands and extraordinary rock formations to the excitement of downtown Hanoi. Sail deep into highland Vietnam and discover the mountain villages and tribal areas with emerald green rice paddies. Enjoy a local water puppet show, visit the local markets in Ninh Giang, taste a homemade special cake ‘Banh Gai’, and learn about Vietnam’s recognised coffee making industry. Pandaw vessels are built and designed as replicas of colonial river steamers and offer an all-inclusive concept, relax with a beverage in hand in peaceful sitting areas dotted throughout the ship, outside on the promenade decks or on the vast observation deck above. With an informal and very social atmosphere, enjoy other guests company – truly relax and escape the world as you know it.

11days/10NIGHTS INCLUDES 10 nights’ accommodation aboard the ship, return transfers between the meeting point and the ship, all excursions including entrance fees, guide services (English speaking), gratuities to crew, main meals, locally made alcoholic beverages and soft drinks, jugged coffee and selection of teas and tisanes and mineral water. Departs on selected DATES throughout the year

Day 1: Hanoi – Halong Bay (L, D)

Transfer from Hanoi to Halong Bay to embark the cruise with a stop for lunch enroute. Cast off in the late afternoon for an evening sailing to drop anchor in a sheltered bay amidst the amazing island scenery. Day 2: Halong Bay (B, L, D)

Explore Halong Bay and beyond with its dramatic limestone islands and extraordinary rock formations. Embark on smaller local boats to visit a floating home, with an opportunity later in the day to kayak to explore limestone caves. Day 3: Halong Bay (B, L, D)

Continue cruising Halong Bay. Enter the river delta in the afternoon and set sail upstream to Pha Lai. Observe the lively and interesting life of the river, a key commercial waterway. Pandaw will anchor mid-stream for the night Day 4: The Thai Binh River (B, L, D)

Sail on Thai Binh River, disembarking at Thanh Ha commune for a water puppet show and a village walking tour. Back on board, cruise to Ninh Giang. In the afternoon, take a walking tour in Ninh Giang commune and visit a local market

to taste a traditional homemade cake, Banh Cai. Continue by bus to Stork’s Island - home to more than 20,000 storks, egrets, herons and many other bird species. Day 5: Bat Trang Village (B, L, D)

unspoilt beauty of the Da River. Pass the Ba Vi National Park with its rich and diverse tropical and sub-tropical flora and fauna before arriving at Hoa Binh. Visit the UNESCO village of Duang Lam.

Today, cruise towards Hanoi. In the afternoon, stop at Bat Trang, a ceramic village. The pottery artists are highly skilled and bring innovative techniques and creativity to their products.

Day 10: Hoa Binh (B, L, D)

Day 6: Hanoi (B, L, D)

Day 11: Hanoi (B, L)

Docked in Hanoi, visit some key highlights including the notorious prison known as the Hanoi Hilton, the Temple of Literature, and the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum. An afternoon walking tour includes a visit to a coffee shop to learn about Vietnam’s famous coffee making industry. Before returning to the ship you will enjoy a traditional unicorn and lion dance at the jetty.

Disembark after breakfast and visit a local village where traditional dress is still worn. Transfer to Hanoi where tour arrangements end.

Day 7: Lower Red River (B, L, D)

Sail through the day from Hanoi up the Red River to Viet Tri – an excellent base for going deeper into the Vietnam Highlands. Head ashore to visit a timeless Arcadian Vietnam - emerald green rice paddies punctuated by limestone rock formations. Of particular interest are the Thay and Tay Phuong Pagodas. These exquisite temples date from the 8th and 11th century and are home to some fine Buddhist statuary carved from jackfruit trees.

This morning take a boat ride to visit a local village in Hoa Binh. Tonight enjoy a traditional performance by the local hill tribe people.

*Itinerary based on upstream departures between Apr-Nov. Please contact Active Asia for Dec-Mar itinerary and downstream options. For more river cruising options in Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos and Myanmar please refer to the Active Asia River Cruising brochure.

Day 8: Lo River (B, L, D)

Cruise to the Tien Du ferry station this morning and onwards to the conical hat making village of Gia Thanh. By bus continue to Hung Lo Temple where according to legend, the first kings of Vietnam chose this land to build the first capital on. Day 9: Da River (B, L, D)

Enjoy a day sailing downstream admiring the

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Notorious for its cascading rice terraces and villages of ethnic minorities, Sapa overlooks verdant valleys surrounded by mountains on either side. Offering a refreshing climate, Sapa is a popular trekking base suitable for all fitness levels. Hike through the stunning scenery passing by curious children, welcoming smiles and everyday life traditions. Culturally rich, this captivating town is bought to life with bustling markets filled with various products sold by the colourfully dressed H’Mong and Dzao hilltribe communities. A far cry from the westernised world, Sapa also offers a completely different viewpoint to the rest of Vietnam and showcases its own characteristic charm.

2days/1NIGHT

4days/3NIGHTs

1x night in a homestay, select meals and English speaking guide

Return transfers from Hanoi hotel to Hanoi train station, return sleeper train shared compartment, 1x night in standard hotel, 1-day trek and market visit with local English speaking guide

INCLUDES

Sapa Trek One of the best ways to explore the stunning

FROM $185

region around Sapa is on foot. Commence on a two day trek through the Sapa region, accompanied by a local English speaking guide, providing you an insight into the traditional way of life of just some of the ethnic minorities that call the north of Vietnam home. This is one of the most enjoyable walks in the area as it involves descending into a nearby valley that is inhabited by a variety of ethnic hill tribes. From the valley floor, appreciate the amazing scenery that surrounds you. The walls of the valley climb away from you covered in terraced rice paddies and scattered villages. *Approx. 27km trek over two days

Sapa Experience Travel by overnight train from Hanoi to

5days/4NIGHTs

Return transfers from Hanoi hotel to Hanoi train station, return sleeper train shared compartment, 1x night in a standard hotel, 1x night a homestay, 1-day trek and market visit with local English speaking guide

Return transfers from Hanoi hotel to Hanoi train station, return Victoria Express sleeper train shared compartment, 1x night in a superior hotel, 1x night a homestay, 1-day trek and market visit with local English speaking guide

INCLUDES

Standard Sapa Hilltribe Trek Set amongst spectacular rolling hills in the

FROM $670

Sapa on this three night tour. Arrive early morning at Lao Cai on the Chinese border before transferring to Sapa. Sneak through the market and leave the busy town behind as you head downhill to Cat Cat Village. Trek via dirt trails through rice paddy terraces all whilst taking in the spectacular scenery along a narrow river. Visit villages of the Black H’mong minorities enlivened by the flashes of shining jewellery from the necks and wrists of indigo-clad women. Enjoy time at leisure to self-explore Sapa or visit one of the areas weekly markets which rotate on a daily basis, selling wonderful crafts all made by the local ethnic tribes.

north of Vietnam near the Chinese border, this Sapa package combines your overnight train journeys from Hanoi to Lao Cai (train station), accommodation in Sapa and a two day trek among colourful ethnic villages and through spectacular scenery. Mist often swirls around the hills as local villagers tend to their farms and animals and go about their daily life. The trek is easy for anyone of average fitness. Experience a stay with a local family, although arrangements are basic, you will be warmly welcomed and gain a unique insight into the local way of life – it will leave you with many wonderful memories.

FROM $458

INCLUDES

Superior Sapa Hilltribe Trek This four night Sapa package combines

a wonderful journey on board the Victoria Express Train. With its elegant carriages, the train recalls a more romantic era. Passing through the exotic landscapes of North Vietnam, between the charming cities of Hanoi and Lao Cai, it offers every visitor a wonderful travelling experience. Accommodation is included in a four star hotel along with a unique homestay opportunity with a local family. Whilst homestay arrangements are basic, it provides an engaging perspective on local life. Your two day trek will take you via scenic trails between ethnic villages with time at leisure to also further explore on your own pace.

*All prices are per person, twin share, based on low season including breakfast

FROM $854

Sapa

SAPA For the adventurous and cultured, board a train from Hanoi and travel north near the Chinese border to Lao Cai from which you travel amidst the winding, rolling hills to Sapa.

Northern Vietnam Tours

NORTHERN VIETNAM

Hanoi in Brief This private mini tour includes the bustling Old Quarter, an insight into Ho Chi Minh’s life combined with the key historical sights of Hanoi.

3days

Ninh Binh Countryside Cycle 2days

From

On this overnight cycling tour, discover Ninh Binh offering great natural allure and is popular with Vietnamese who flock to nearby cultural sights.

$215

From

$509

Mai Chau & Ninh Binh Exploration As you escape Hanoi, stunning scenery and colourful cultural ethnic communities await on this three day adventure.

3days From

$761

Day 1: Hanoi

Day 1: Hanoi – Ninh Binh (L,D)

Day 1: Hanoi – Mai Chau (L, D)

Arrive in Hanoi. An English speaking local guide will meet you at your hotel for an orientation, explaining all about Vietnam, the best places to exchange money, recommended places to eat, to shop and explore. A short walk to Hoan Kiem Lake introduces you to one of Vietnam’s most valuable lessons – how to cross the street when so many bicycles and motor scooters are rushing past! The evening is free to spend at leisure to further explore or to simply relax.

Depart Hanoi for a two drive to Ninh Binh. Visit the ancient capital of Hoa Lu and the remaining two temples of King Dinh and King Le. From here begin your cycling journey through the countryside to Tam Coc – a picturesque setting. (16km ride) After lunch at a local restaurant, sit back and relax as you are rowed in a small bamboo boat through the rice fields, caves and mountain ranges - take in the beauty of the natural stunning landscape. Later this afternoon visit Bich Dong Cave Pagoda built in 1428. The evening is spent at leisure.

Depart Hanoi travelling through the mountains to Mai Chau. Make photo stops along the way as well as short treks to visit some of the local villages of the Muong people. After lunch you will have the opportunity to walk around and continue to experience the lifestyle of the local villages. Your stop for the evening is at a traditional stilt-house in a village of the White Thai minority. Here you will enjoy a traditional dinner and a comfortable night’s sleep – blankets and pillow provided.

Day 2: Hanoi (B)

Today travel around this beautiful and fascinating city full of lakes, tree-lined boulevards and French colonial buildings. Your city tour begins with a visit to the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum. Here learn all about the great leader, Ho Chi Minh and his love for his people. You’ll also see the house where Ho Chi Minh lived very simply followed by the One Pillar Pagoda. Your last stop is Vietnam’s first university – the Temple of Literature, rebuilt in 2000 with its main purpose to remind Vietnam youth to try to study as their ancestors did. The afternoon is free to spend at leisure to relax or shop. Day 3: Hanoi (B)

Today tour arrangements end upon check out from your hotel.

Day 2: Ninh Binh – Hanoi (B,L)

After breakfast drive to Phat Diem Stone Church, built between 1875 and 1899. Phuong Dinh Church, part of the Phat Diem complex, is a giant building entirely made of stone. Numerous stone sculptures are on the inside and outside walls. A large bell cast in the 1890s weighing nearly two tons is found in the bell tower. Enjoy lunch before driving to Gia Vien District, for a boat trip to the Kenh Ga Floating Village accessible only by boat. Glide along the river and canals, weaving through the boathouses and fishing vessels of Kenh Ga - a unique experience combining the stunning backdrop of the limestone cliffs with an authentic floating village. Late afternoon return to Hanoi where tour arrangements end.

Day 2: Mai Chau – Xa Linh – Ninh Binh (B, L, D)

Today rise early and transfer to the village of Xa Linh. Enjoy the beautiful valleys and peaceful scenery on the drive to Xa Linh which is home to the Red H’mong and Blue H’mong minority people. Return to Mai Chau for lunch before heading to Ninh Binh, considered Halong Bay ‘on land’. The evening is spent at leisure. Day 3: Ninh Binh – Hanoi (B, L)

After breakfast, depart for Tam Coc where you will board a small boat. Relax as a local villager rows you through the rice fields and mountain ranges of this stunning region arriving at the historic Bich Dong Pagoda. Following lunch, take a scenic countryside drive to the ancient capital of Hoa Lu. Visit temples dedicated to heroes and dynastic founders from the 10th century. Continue on to Hanoi where tour arrangements end.

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Adventure North

Offering a fascinating tour of the north, this five-day tour introduces you to Hanoi along with the picturesque countryside of Sapa.

5days From

$675

6days

Best of the North Tour

This is a great combination tour - discover the main sights of Hanoi and explore further afield on a two-night Halong Bay cruise.

From

$1165

7days

Cultural North

Explore Hanoi followed by Hoa Binh province to experience the cultural north before enjoying the incredible panoramas on a Halong Bay cruise.

From

$1349

Day 1: Hanoi

Day 1: Hanoi (B)

Arrive in Hanoi. An English speaking local guide will you meet you at your hotel for a Hanoi orientation. Spend the evening at leisure.

Arrive in Hanoi. An English speaking local guide will you meet you at your hotel for a Hanoi orientation.

Day 2: Hanoi - Sapa (B)

Day 2: Hanoi (B)

Day 2: Hanoi (B, L)

This morning rise early as your guide introduces you to the historic Old Quarter as Hanoi comes to life in the early morning. Watch as the streets go from deserted to bustling. Return to your hotel for breakfast before discovering some of the city’s key sights including Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, the house where Ho Chi Minh resided and One Pillar Pagoda. Next head to Hoan Kiem Lake and an age old traditional art form – the Water Puppet Show. The afternoon is free to spend at leisure before your overnight train to Sapa.

Rise early and visit Hoan Kiem Lake to witness the daily morning routines of local people all whilst the streets of Hanoi come to life. Later this morning, discover some of the city’s key sights - Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, One Pillar Pagoda followed by a Water Puppet Show. The afternoon and evening is spent at leisure.

Today’s highlights include the Temple of Literature, One Pillar Pagoda and the 6th century Tran Quoc Buddhist Pagoda. In the afternoon, visit either the Ethnology Museum or the Vietnam Women’s Museum. End your day with a walking tour through the Old Quarter, followed by a Water Puppet Show.

Day 3: Hanoi - Halong Bay (B,L,D)

Day 3: Hanoi - Mai Chau (B, L, D)

Departing Hanoi this morning pass through rice fields and bustling towns on the drive to Halong Bay. On arrival, board your traditional style junk boat for the cruise around the bay. Make stops to visit islands and caves. Kayak (optional extra) or simply take in the stunning scenery.

Journey to the mountainous countryside area of Mai Chau and take advantage of the fantastic photo opportunities. Enjoy lunch at a local village and experience the lifestyle of the ethnic hilltribes in the villages. This evening choose to stay in either a traditional stilt-house in a village of the White Thai minority, or a rustic country lodge.

Day 4: Halong Bay Cruise (B, L, D)

Day 4: Mai Chau - Hanoi (B, L)

For early risers, join in a Tai Chi class, or enjoy coffee on the sun deck. Catch the morning view of the seascape while enjoying breakfast. Today, visit hidden lagoons covered by majestic limestone islands and islets and wild beaches. Simply relax in the surreal setting.

Rise early and transfer to the village of Xa Linh, enjoying the beautiful valleys and peaceful scenery on the drive. After lunch return to Hanoi.

Day 3: Sapa (B, L)

Arrive early at Lao Cai on the Chinese border where you will then drive through the winding hills to Sapa. Enjoy breakfast upon arrival at your hotel with time to freshen up. You will then be met by a local guide for your first trek, visiting Cat Cat Village, a hydroelectric station and through the scenic rice paddy terraces. Day 4: Sapa - Hanoi (B, L)

Today you have the choice to either visit one of the areas weekly markets (market location rotates daily) or enjoy free time to discover Sapa at your own leisure. This evening transfer back to Lai Cai for your overnight train back to Hanoi. Day 5: Hanoi

Arrive early at Hanoi Railway Station where tour arrangements end.

Day 5: Halong Bay - Hanoi (B)

This morning cruise leisurely back to harbour. On the return trip to Hanoi, visit a local pottery village Day 6: Hanoi (B)

Tour arrangements end upon check out from your hotel.

*All prices are per person, twin share, based on low season including breakfast

Day 5: Hanoi - Halong Bay (B, L,D)

Drive to Halong Bay where you will board a traditional style junk boat. Visit islands and caves, kayak (optional extra) or swim in the emerald sea. Day 6: Halong Bay - Hanoi (B)

Pass by beautiful outcrops and rocky islands as you cruise to port. On the return drive to Hanoi, visit a local pottery village. Day 7: Hanoi (B)

Tour arrangements end upon check out from your hotel.

Northern Vietnam Tours

NORTHERN VIETNAM

Hue, pronounced “hway”, sprawls across the banks of Song Huong Perfume River located in Central Vietnam.

VIETNAM SMALL GROUP TOURS

HUE

HUE Often overlooked, Hue is a city of cultural and historical value and once served as the capital city. Although Hue suffered much damage during the Vietnam War, the city and most of the monuments are largely unharmed. The impressive 19th century citadel surrounded by a moat showcases this former ancient capital with an intact appearance of an Imperial City. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the massive complex with rich architecture and beautifully landscaped gardens features hundreds of monuments and ruins, such as the Forbidden Purple City, royal tombs, pagodas and temples. Renowned for its Imperial-style cuisine, Hue also has some lusty and tasty street level flavours, be sure to try a crispy Banh Khoai, a pan friend crepe typically stuffed with shrimp and pork.

EMM Hotel Hue

Romance Hotel From

$36

Hotel Saigon Morin From

From

$84

$44

Located in the heart of Hue, this lovingly restored hotel offers great views of the historic Truong Tien Bridge and the Perfume River. Established in 1901, the hotel is a historic symbol of Hue. With a distinct white façade and colonial feel, well-appointed guest rooms are spacious with balconies overlooking the tree lined streets below. The hotel boasts a range of facilities including a roof top restaurant and bar, swimming pool, fitness centre, beauty salon and a massage and spa service.

Recently renovated and located in the heart of the city, this hotel offers easy access to nearby historical sites, including the Imperial City and the elaborate tombs of Nguyen Dynastyera rulers. The new modern design draws on historical elements in its bright, bold colours, such as the majestic purple and jade green of the luxurious silks worn by ladies of the ancient royal families. Guest rooms are inviting and offer views overlooking the swimming pool, lush tropical gardens or the historic streets.

Centrally located in Hue, this hotel is close to the tranquil and picturesque Perfume River. Guest rooms are comfortable and have an array of amenities. After a day of discovering the charming city, take a refreshing dip in the rooftop swimming pool or head to Romance Spa for an indulgent treatment – choose from therapeutic body relaxations to traditional Vietnamese rejuvenations. What better way is there to end the day.

Imperial Hue Hotel

MGallery La Rèsidence Hotel & Spa From

$81

This majestic hotel is nestled along the Perfume River, conveniently close to all the historical sites this UNESCO World Cultural Heritage City has to offer. The hotel features a combination of modern and classic design blending historic architectural details and earthy décor. Guest rooms offer stunning views of either the serene Perfume River, the magnificent Ngu Binh Mountain or the ancient monuments of the city. For a spectacular panoramic evening view, head to the King’s Panorama Bar located on Level 16.

From

Endowed with opulence, this former residence of the French Colonial Governor was restored and redeveloped as an exceptional hotel.

$178

Offering a fantastic riverside setting on the banks of the Perfume River overlooking the citadel on the opposite bank, the hotel has been stylishly decorated and furnished taking inspiration from the Art Deco era of the 1920s and 1930s. With great care taken to preserve the charm and atmosphere of a classical colonial villa, well-appointed guest rooms and suites still offer modern conveniences with private balconies or terraces. Le Gouverneur Bar is well stocked with first-rate spirits and Cuban cigars, oozing a 1920s elegance, whilst La Parfum Restaurant delivers a first-class FrenchVietnamese fusion experience. Step back in time with a stay at this sophisticated hotel.

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Duration: 8 HRS Price from $174pp

Duration: 11-12 HRS Price from $299pp

Duration: 4-5 HRS Price from $168pp

The Royal Capital DMZ Tour TraveltheHaiVanPass Hue was Vietnam’s political capital from 1802 From 1954 to 1975 the DMZ of Vietnam Once rated by National Geographic as one to 1945, throughout the rein of the 13 emperors of the Nguyen Dynasty. On this tour explore some of the key ancient sites – set sail along the Perfume River before discovering Thien Mu Pagoda; the Imperial Citadel, the former royal quarters within a walled fortress; and the tomb of the Emperor Khai Dinh with its unique artwork and mosaics made from glass and ceramic fragments. You’ll also stop at a roadside village to observe the making of cinnamon incense.

Duration: 8 HRS Price from $164pp

(Demilitarized Zone) separated the North and South acting as a buffer except for the fact that it became one of the most militarised areas in the world. Visit Dong Ha, the former base of U.S Marines along with battlefields such as The Rockpile and Khe Sanh – the scene of one of the most controversial battles of the American War. You’ll also visit Vinh Moc Tunnels, once used as bomb shelters. The experience is highly informative if not haunting.

Duration: 10.5 HRS Price from $148pp

of the 50 ‘must-do’ journeys in the world. The Hai Van Pass is one of the most scenic hillside roads in Vietnam. Stunning views await of Lang Co Beach and out to the South China Sea when passing through the winding roads of the mountain pass. At the top, photo opportunities abound. You will also see China Beach, home to the American Army during the war also made famous with the American sitcom series “China Beach”. See Marble Mountain and tour the Museum of Cham Sculpture in Danang.

Duration: 3.5 HRS Price from $86pp

Hue by Motorbike Hue by Bicycle DongBaMarket &ConicalPoemHats Jump on a motorbike behind a driver for a Stretch the legs and explore Hue by bicycle. Drive to a handicraft village where Hue tour through the countryside to the tile-roofed Thanh Toan Bridge, built over two centuries ago. Continue to the Imperial Citadel, modelled after the Forbidden City in Beijing and built in the early 19th century. After lunch, explore Ho Quyen Arena where tigers and elephants fought, gladiator style, for the benefit of the royal family. Continue on to Thien Mu Pagoda, Tu Duc’s Tomb and Vong Canh Hill - the best place to catch a panoramic view of the Perfume River and the Ho Quyen Arena.

Duration: 3 HRS Price from $121pp

Begin with a ride out to the Thien Mu Pagoda, built more than 500 years ago. Returning to Hue you will visit the Citadel - this impressive edifice has a 10,000m circumference and is made up of three ramparts. Following an exploration of the Citadel, the next stop is the tombs of the Emperors Tu Duc and Khai Dinh. Emperor Tu Duc ordered his tomb to be built as a fairyland full of poetic features, whilst Khai Dinh’s tomb is a mixture of Western and Asian architecture. Note: Approx. 20km cycle.

Duration: 4 HRS Price from $127pp

locals still preserve the traditional crafts as an indigenous cultural feature. Here, contemplate Hue’s conical hat and witness the progress of making a “Non La” (conical poem hat) – the symbol of South East Asia. Each conical hat is a work of art, requiring perseverance, dexterity and diligence. Artisans weave typical images of Hue or poems into the hat to make it distinct. You’ll also visit Dong Ba Market with everything from souvenir items to bronze goods and food available.

Duration: 12.5 HRS Price from $242pp

Hue Street Food Tour Hue by Cyclo Paradise Caves Enjoy an evening dedicated to traditional Hue Explore Hue by cyclo – a three wheeled Head to Paradise Cave, located inside the food! By cyclo head to a local shop house to discover Banh Beo – a popular cake snack of Hue people. Continue on to a local restaurant to try beef grilled in wild betel leaves as an appetiser. You will be given a brief on Hue cuisine, the origins and anecdotes. The next delicacies to try are rustic family meals of grilled pork on lemongrass skewers and crispy salted pancakes. Walk to the next stop for mixed sweet soups of Hue. End with a stop at a coffee shop to taste Vietnamese coffee and enjoy live music.

bicycle taxi. Sit back and relax as you explore Hue from a different perspective. Start your adventure by passing through the south Huong River area around the new Hue city. Next, pass the river by Truong Tien Bridge; continue on through the old Hue city. Stop for a visit to the Imperial Citadel where the former kings of Vietnam’s last feudal dynasty ruled from 1802 to 1945. Continue by cyclo through the rest of the old Hue city streets before returning back to your hotel.

*All prices are per person, twin share, based on low season including breakfast

World Heritage Phong Nha Ke Bang National Park, about 230km northwest of Hue. Climb near 500 steps to reach the cave entrance. Inside spend time exploring the magnificent scenery with the spectacular stalagmites system. On route to the caves you will also stop to visit La Vang Holy Land in Hai Lang District, which contains the most valuable sculptural works in the history of Vietnamese sculpture. You will also have an opportunity to view some sites from the American War.

HUE SIGHTSEEING

Hue sightseeing

HUE

From

Vedana Lagoon Resort & Spa Nestled along the shores of a secluded, peaceful

From

Angsana Lang Co Nestled in the foothills of the Truong Son Mountain

From

Banyan Tree Lang Co Explore the beauty and charm of Lang Co with a stay

$201

$210

$595

and serene lagoon, surrounded in lushly forested peaks, between the cities of Hue and Hoi An, this resort embodies the subtle connection of a modern art concept and a high-end lifestyle. Offering stunning views across the lagoon the resort is spread over 27 hectares of undulating land and lagoon surface in a calm and picturesque landscape. Beautiful bungalows and overwater villas offer contemporary décor whilst subtly showcasing traditional Vietnamese elements into the design. Warm and inviting, each room boasts a spacious living space with private sundeck and balcony leading out into a garden setting or onto the immense lagoon. The essence of the resort however flows into a wellness experience – blending ancient traditional healing wisdom from the east with therapies from the west. No chemicals or artificial ingredients are used in spa treatments, with great care taken from sourcing, handling to blending the 100% natural ingredients. Where possible, spa products are derived from the resort herb garden or are locally sourced fresh from the markets in the morning. Combine this with the resort’s Tai Chi, yoga and chakra balancing classes to help find balance and peace of mind.

Range and overlooking a magnificent three kilometre sandy crescent beach, this resort is an idyllic haven offering contemporary-chic resort living. Clad in vibrant Vietnamese decorative elements, the stylish rooms and suites boast spectacular views of the East Sea and a tranquil lagoon, set amidst towering mountain landscapes. With an abundance of recreational and leisure options prepare yourself for a fabulous tropical getaway at this stunning Vietnam beach resort. If you love golf, prepare to be delighted at the Sir Nick Faldo-designed 18-hole championship golf course with the rustic charm of scenic rice fields and bubbling streams. Enjoy an invigorating swim in the 300-metre long serpentine pool, have hours of fun with the array of water based activities or for the kids, have hours of interactive fun at the Angsana Kids Club. The award winning Angsana Spa is the perfect place to unwind and rejuvenate after an exciting day exploring. For dining options, you are spoilt for choice, perhaps opt for a refreshing cocktail at Moomba overlooking the beautiful beach or embark on a culinary journey through the flavourful delights of Asia at Rice Bowl and Rice Bar.

at this all-pool villa resort. Overlooking a stunning stretch of beach, feel the warm waves of the East Sea tickle your toes, and raise your gaze to behold the magnificent stretch of the Truong Son Mountain Range. Cascading down, settle into your luxury villa offering lushly tended private gardens, indulgent bedding and a bath menu. Enjoy your own private terrace, gaze out over your plunge pool to the mountains or ocean beyond and contemplate what to do next. Pamper yourself with a treatment of two in the world class Banyan Tree Spa, tee off in style at the Sir Nick Faldo-designed 18-hole championship golf course, join a cooking class and learn how to make Bun Bo Hue, a regional noodle dish or explore Lang Co’s beautiful lagoons and the local fishing village, navigating through the mangroves in a traditional basket boat. Serving innovatively creative Thai cuisine, Saffron is the resort’s signature and award winning Thai restaurant. For those looking for a more intimate setting, opt for an in-villa dining experience with dedicated table staff or choose to dine on the beach in an undisturbed location.

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Regional Cambodia

Hue Surrounds

The largest city in Central Vietnam, Danang is predominantly used as the access point for journeys to Hoi An. With few attractions, apart from the Museum of Cham Sculpture, Dragon Bridge and Cao Dai Temple, the main magnetism to the area is the beautiful coastline. Considered one of the most picturesque beaches in Vietnam, Danang Beach is split into three main parts with the southern part the most sought after including Pham van Dong Beach, My Khe Beach (China Beach), Bac My An Beach and Non Nuoc Beach. Local attractions in this area include Marble Mountain and the multiple golf courses. The cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s growth came from the war when the area was once used as an important US Air Force base during the Vietnam War. Beautiful resorts line the coastline and offer a great haven for relaxation with the beach generally uncluttered and without touts.

Fusion Maia

Danang Bay Thanh Binh Beach

Railway Station

DANANG

iver

Han R

Da Nang International Airport

Han Market

My Khe Beach

From

$492

Marble Mountains

Non Nuoc Beach

An Bang Beach Cu Dai Beach Hoi An Thu Bon River

This unique all-villa resort dedicates itself to the art of relaxation. With simple design, down-to-earth service and a surprising all spa-inclusive concept, a stay here will make you feel relaxed like never before. Choose from one, two or three bedroom villas, each with open living, an outdoor courtyard and private pool. Inspired by The Five Elements food philosophy, a fusion menu will tantalise the taste buds whilst the Tonic Lounge Bar serves an array of cocktails including a tasting flight.

Four Seasons Resort The Nam Hai

Vinpearl Danang Resort & Villas From

From

$205

In a prime location on Non Nuoc Beach and overlooking the vast ocean, with its back resting on the majestic Marble Mountain range, this resort is the ideal holiday destination. Boasting an eclectic mix of contemporary design and old-world charm, guest rooms all overlook the ocean and the main pool, with vast open spaces of green, lush gardens right at your doorstep. With five outdoor swimming pools including areas allocated for children the resort provides an environment conducive to family fun too.

$571

Resting on an infinite stretch of pristine Ha My Beach lays this impressive resort unlike any other in Vietnam. Beautiful villas offer luxurious modern living, fusing practicality with traditional Asian design aesthetic to stunning effect. Relax around three expansive swimming pools, over gourmet Eastern and Western cuisine or in striking spa treatment pavilions that appear to float like the surrounding lotus flowers atop of a lagoon. A stay here will not leave you disappointed.

*All prices are per person, twin share, based on low season including breakfast

DANANG beach

DANANG BEACH

HOI AN

Much talked about, Hoi An is an ancient town with an alluring atmosphere. Neighbouring Danang, and accessible only by road, this UNESCO World Heritage Centre has a medley of history with a mixture of eras reflective in the towns architecture.

Well preserved Chinese shop houses, French colonial buildings and the iconic Japanese Bridge make this town unique. Take a leisurely stroll and delve into the golden hued streets, discover boutique galleries, cute cafes and restaurants and a multitude of tailor shops. Renowned for its impressive and quick tailoring, travellers often head home with an abundance of garments. Rounding off Hoi An’s appeal is the picturesque countryside best explored by bicycle, complemented by the beaches of Cui Dai and An Bang. A buzz with travellers day and night, this quaint town’s charm will not disappoint and will leave you wanting to stay for longer.

Ving Hung Emerald Resort

Ving Hung 2 City Hotel From

Hoi An Historic Hotel

Set in the tranquil district of An Hoi, this resort is located on the banks of the Thu Bon River and within a 10 minute walk to the ancient town of Hoi An. Centred around an infinity pool and spacious courtyard, guest rooms are designed to maximise the views over the garden, swimming pool and the river. Rejuvenate and balance your mind and body with a treatment at the hotel spa or participate in a uniquely crafted cooking class and savour Hoi An flavours.

Boutique Hoi An Resort

Palm Garden Resort $132

Come explore the rich heritage of Vietnamese cuisine and culture at this boutique resort. Ideally located on An Bang Beach, it’s also just a five minute drive from Hoi An town. Unwind by the pool surrounded by tropical gardens or indulge in a massage at Le Spa. All guest rooms face the sea and have private balconies or terraces with select rooms having direct access to the beach for the ultimate in privacy and relaxation.

$76

$56

Located a few steps from the hub of Hoi An, this hotel features tasteful architecture with a distinct local feel. Guest rooms are modern and are equipped with double glazed windows for noise insulation. Featuring an outdoor swimming pool, the beauty salon team offer a foot massage service pool side while you are basking in the sun or reading a book. Overlooking the pool is the restaurant and bar serving an all day snack menu and cold refreshments. This is a great central hotel.

From

$39

Admired for its location, charm and good facilities, this hotel is a short walk to the old town of Hoi An and just 4km from Cua Dai Beach – easily accessible by the hotel’s daily scheduled shuttle bus service. Comfortable guest rooms and suites are situated in low rise buildings spaced throughout lush, shady grounds. A swimming pool with poolside recliners, tennis courts, a beauty salon and children’s playground are also available to occupy the day.

From Set on 12 acres of landscaped tropical gardens overlooking Cua Dai Beach, this enviable beachfront resort makes for a great stay.

$135

With a large swimming pool surrounded by loungers and umbrellas, relax pool side or on the beach an array of water sport activities are on offer. For those who wish to explore town, a daily scheduled complimentary shuttle bus into Hoi An gives you easy access to the delightful shops and restaurants. With the children happily entertained in the Kids Club, head to the indoor Palm Spa offering traditional therapies to wipe away the stress. Palm Pavillion brings the spa experience to the tranquil outdoors, drawing on nature and the richness of the region’s botanical extracts. Retreat for the day to your wellappointed guest room or bungalow, set amid the lush gardens.

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Duration: 3 HRS Price from $51pp

Duration: 4-5 HRS Price from $113pp

Duration: 5 HRS Price from $74pp

Ancient Hoi An Walking Tour The Ruins of My Son Red Bridge Cooking Class World Heritage listed Hoi An is an ancient The spectacular ruins of My Son were once This popular cooking school offers you a town with water wells, art and antique galleries, lantern shops and tailors galore. On this short walking tour your guide brings you the history behind this wonderful town with visits to key landmarks and buildings such as the Japanese Covered Bridge, an old shop house, a Chinese assembly hall, Hoi An Museum and a handicraft showroom to see some of the typical crafts practiced in the town. You will be provided with a Hoi An entrance pass which gives access to select Hoi An sites anytime during your stay.

Duration: 4 HRS Price from $103pp

home to the Champas who ruled Central Vietnam from c200AD to c1700AD. Covering a vast area of Vietnam, My Son were the most important temples of the Champa Kingdom between the 4th and 13th century. Bricks were used to build the temples without the aid of mortar which were adorned with sculptures. Today the remains of a series of impressive tower-temples in this dramatic site offer a great opportunity to learn more about the history, architecture and art of the old Champa Kingdom.

Duration: 8.5 HRS Price from $82pp

professional yet fun experience to learn about Vietnamese food and the Hoi An’s way of life. Highlights include a guided tour of Hoi An’s colourful central market filled with amazing sights, sounds and aromas; a leisurely boat trip on the Hoi An River; a walk through the school’s herb garden; followed by a two hour hands on cooking class with demonstrations from the Red Bridge chefs. Included in the class is a brief introduction to Vietnamese food carving. After the lesson, enjoy the meal you have cooked.

Duration: 9 HRS Price from $386pp

HoiSpend An by Bicycle CuThisLam Cham Snorkelling Ethnic Community Experience half a day leisurely cycling through morning, transfer to Cua Dai Harbour Remote and untouched, discover the Bho the scenic countryside exploring the peaceful villages around Hoi An. Begin by cycling to Cam Thanh Village, with its beautiful rice and shrimp farms. Next ride to Thanh Ha Pottery Village where you can see the daily life of local people and observe the making of pottery products. Continue cycling through the countryside to Tra Que Farming Village where you’ll see vegetable gardens and local farmers working in their fields. Then it’s on to Cam Nam Island for lunch before returning to your hotel.

where you will embark on a boat bound for Cham Island. Learn about local life and culture of local fisherman living on the island. You will explore two dive and snorkel sites where you will have the chance to see marvellous coral as well as marine life. At Ong Beach you will stop for a Vietnamese seafood lunch followed by time to spend at leisure on the beach. Relax, bake in the sun or swim – the choice is yours.

*All prices are per person, twin share, based on low season including breakfast

Hoong Ethnic Community in Vietnam’s Central Highlands. Travel by American Jeep through quaint villages and hamlets before reaching the ethnic community. Experience the village first hand - enjoy a guided walk with a local resident of the village before a traditional Co Tu lunch and music performance. Continue on through the tea plantations to the Co Tu town of Trung Mang. Visit the former king of the Co Tu people and enjoy a tea or coffee, or for the more adventurous, a nip of traditional Co Tu rice wine!

Hoi An Sightseeing

Hoi An

Hoi An Sightseeing

hoi an

Duration: 3-3.5 HRS Price from $55pp

Duration: 1.5 HRS Price from $400pp

Duration: 18 Holes Price from $400pp

Lantern Painting HoiTakeAnaPampering Golf in Hoi An Hoi An is famous for its handmade lanterns few hours out of your day for a Enjoy a round of golf at Montgomerie Links. which adorn all the main streets in the Old Town and look stunning at night. Head to the Long Vy Lantern Workshop for a lantern painting class. You will be given a brief history on the art of lantern making before being introduced to the shape and colour of the lanterns as well as the many stages of painting them. After which, you will be given the opportunity to make and decorate your own lantern. This is a great souvenir to keep as a memory of your Vietnam trip.

Duration: 5 HRS Price from $135pp

session of pampering. Head to Naman Retreat with its idyllic setting – a beachfront enclave nestled between two of the finest golf courses - Greg Norman’s Danang Golf Club and The Montgomerie Links. The moment you retreat into the free flowing, no wall sanctuary, you have entered a world of pure bliss. Enjoy a 150 minute treatment to relax and rejuvenate the body. Pure Spa envelopes you in a healing and tranquil cocoon. This is a great option if you have a partner keen on golfing for the day.

Duration: 2 HRS Price from $109pp

Acclaimed by local and visiting golfers alike, the course is challenging enough to test the best players, while being eminently playable and enjoyable for mid and higher handicappers. Designed to capitalise on its close proximity to the warm, tranquil East Sea and famed Marble Mountains, the course also has many truly outstanding natural features creating the framework for a very strong links-style golf course that is a sheer delight to play – the stunning par-5 12th is truly memorable.

Duration: 3 HRS Price from $135pp

Vespa Foodie Tour Sunset Cruise Romantic Dinner on Beach If you’re a lover of Vietnamese food and Showcasing the stunning Hoi An river culture Travel by American Jeep on a scenic journey looking to learn more about street food culture, hop on the back of a Vespa and experience the tastes of Hoi An. Discover plenty of great stalls, stopping at five locations and enjoying dinner a step at a time. Discover some of the lesserknown foods that are highly popular with locals in Hoi An. Taste dishes that most people outside of Vietnam never have the opportunity to experience. You’ll also have some great tastes that can’t be found in Hoi An restaurants. This is a great way to become a Hoi An food expert!

and its beauty, embark on a relaxing journey up the Thu Bon River. As the sun begins to set, relax and enjoy a delicious selection of finger food and drinks on board. The setting sun is the perfect accompaniment to the food as it casts an incredible orange glow over the mountain ranges, rice paddies and waterways. The journey will take you past Duy Hai Fishing Village where the local fisherman prep for their evening trip out to sea. This cruise offers a stunning way to finish your day.

to the beach. Uniquely designed for couples who would like their own space or an afternoon of romance, relax at the beach as you are greeted by a butler waiting at a sala camp with lounge chairs and towels. Your time is free to spend as you please. Relax, read a book or dive into the blue water and float all your cares away. Your butler will then prepare a light barbeque for dinner, accompanied by Chilean wine. As the sun is setting return back to your hotel.

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Central Coast Highlights

For those short on time, this three night tour showcases all the main highlights of the central coast – Hue, the Hai Van Pass and Hoi An.

4days From

$587

Central Insight

Spend one night in historical Hue then three nights in charming Hoi An allowing you time to enjoy the delights of this ancient town.

5days From

$810

Vietnam Heritage by Bicycle 7days Discover Central Vietnam from a different perspective. Jump on a bicycle from Hue to Hoi An, discovering the countryside as you ride.

From

$2117

Day 1: Hue (L)

Day 1: Hue (B, L, D)

Arrive in Hue and transfer to your hotel for check-in with time to freshen up. Today you’ll embark on a half day tour of Hue - discover the Citadel and learn about the Kings of the Nguyen dynasty, visit a famous 400 year old pagoda Thien Muụ on the bank of Perfume River and see the final resting place at the tomb of King Khai Dinh.

Arrive in Hue where you will be immediately introduced to the Nguyen Dyansty during a tour of the Imperial Citadel, modelled after the Forbidden City in Beijing, China.

Day 2: Hue – Hai Van Pass – Hoi An (B, L)

This morning travel over the spectacular Hai Van Pass, a winding road offering stunning views of Lang Co Beach and out to the South China Sea. Visit the small but fascinating Cham Museum in Danang before travelling via China Beach – made famous by the TV series of the same name. Marble Mountain is the next stop, a place of significance for the Vietnamese. Late afternoon arrive in Hoi An. Day 3: Hoi An (B)

This morning you will be met by your guide who will introduce you to Hoi An on a leisurely walking tour of this ancient town. Learn about its fascinating history, discover the architecture and explore an original home. The rest of your day is at leisure – wander the old town, enjoy the shops and cafes, get clothes tailor-made or head out to the beach. Day 4: Hoi An (B)

Today transfer to Danang Airport where tour arrangements end.

Day 2: Hue – Hai Van Pass – Hoi An (B, L)

Today traverse the Hai Van Pass, a scenic hillside journey with great photo opportunities along the drive. Upon arriving into Danang, visit the Cham Museum along with the picturesque My Khe Beach. Make a stop at Marble Mountain, with workshops at the base carving all sorts of intricate carvings from the marble. Arrive in Hoi An late afternoon. Day 3: Hoi An (B)

This morning your guide will meet you to introduce you to the ancient town of Hoi An. It has a remarkable history as a trading port and this short walking tour will give you an invaluable insight. The rest of the day is free to spend at leisure. Day 4: Hoi An (B)

Today choose one of our optional tours, which are included in your tour package. * Red Bridge Cooking Class * My Son Holy Land * Bicycle tour to country markets Day 5: Hoi An (B)

Today transfer to Danang Airport where tour arrangements end.

*All prices are per person, twin share, based on low season including breakfast

Day 2: Hue (Cycle 30km) (B, L, D)

Today explore by boat and bicycle. Cruise on the Perfume River to the seven-storey Thien Mu Pagoda then cycle to Ming Mang and Khai Dinh mausoleums. Day 3: Hue Countryside (Cycle 50km) (B, L, D)

This morning cycle a country loop through the countryside to the traditional village of Phuoc Tich. Day 4: Hue – Lang Co Beach (Cycle 65km) (B, L, D)

Today cycle along the coast south to Lang Co Beach, passing colourful graveyards and fishing villages. The afternoon is free to enjoy the resort and beach. Day 5: Lang Co Beach – Hoi An (Cycle 55km) (B, L, D)

Ride and tackle a gradual climb to the top of the Hai Van Pass for a panoramic view. Then it’s downhill to Danang, with a stop to visit China Beach before reaching Hoi An. Day 6: Hoi An – My Son – Hoi An (Cycle 50km) (B, L, D)

Small village roads will lead you back in time to the ruins of the ancient centre of the Cham civilization built from the 4th to the 14th century. Day 7: Hoi An (B)

Today visit the wet market and learn about the many different fruits and vegetables used in Vietnamese dishes. Return to your hotel in time for a transfer to Danang Airport where tour arrangements end.

Central Vietnam Tours

CENTRAL VIETNAM

Nha Trang

NHA TRANG

Nha Trang’s pristine beauty is renowned due to its long white sand beach and warm turquoise waters dotted with off shore islands. Enjoying a stunning setting, the area is surrounded by a hill range with a small city built up along the beachfront. Over recent years, the beachfront has been given a huge makeover and now features a long boulevard, parks and lush gardens, while inland the streets reveal an array of dining options. Ideal for all, the beach is filled with sun loungers hosted by cafes and bars offering drinks and food along with relaxation. As the restaurants wind down, the nightlife cranks up. Enjoy spa treatments, visit the nearby mud pools, sand dunes and salt lakes or explore the centuries old Cham Tower. Families are well catered for with the water theme park and underwater aquarium across at nearby Vinpearl Nha Trang located on Hon Tre (Bamboo Island).

Novotel Nha Trang

The Light Hotel & Resort From

$51

Centrally located on the main boulevard with the beach across the road, this simple hotel is also within close proximity to many restaurants and shops. Featuring traditional Vietnamese furnishings, comfortable guest rooms offer either partial ocean views or city views. Catch up with loved ones back home as complimentary WiFi is available in all rooms along with internet terminals in the lobby. A small pool area is also available for a quick refreshing dip.

From

$107

Located on Nha Trang’s main street, this modern hotel overlooks the beach and is in the heart of the action with bars, restaurants and shopping malls all around with easy access to the beach just a few steps away. Cool off in the ocean spray or enjoy a sun-studded cocktail in the specially reserved beach for Novotel guests or back at the hotel let go and release your tensions at the In Balance Spa. Recluse for the night in your spacious guest room complete with balcony offering stunning sea views.

$203

Located 20 minutes from Nha Trang this resort is set on a private bay with villas set amid manicured gardens. Built with comfort in mind, choose from a condo or villa, all with sea views blending contemporary living with luxurious design. Relax and unwind at Xanh Spa, a retreat that promises to rejuvenate your senses or enjoy the pool which is right by the beach and Sandals Restaurant, so you can hop from one to the other. The hotel also offers a free daily scheduled shuttle service to nearby Nha Trang.

Sheraton Nha Trang Hotel & Spa

Evason Ana Mandara From

$251

Reminiscent of an old Vietnamese village, this luxurious beachfront resort sits just outside of town. Villa style accommodation is found throughout the landscaped grounds with either tropical garden views or direct sea views. The resort swimming pool provides the perfect place for relaxation or alternatively the warm clear waters of the tranquil beach are just steps away including a water activity centre. For those who prefer pampering, the Six Senses Spa offers therapeutic treatments.

Mia Resort Nha Trang

Overlooking the beautiful bay, this hotel offers easy access to the golden stretch of sand and picture-perfect waters of Nha Trang.

From

$195

Guest rooms and suites offer all the amenities you would expect, including the Sheraton Signature Bed, state-of-the-art entertainment and memorable ocean views. Shine Spa for Sheraton™ provides a haven of wellness whilst the unique infinity swimming pool invites opportunities for relaxation. Aimed to attract the younger traveller, the Sheraton Adventure Club offers a wide selection of toys, cartoon books, movies and more to help kids aged 4 to 12 years walk away with fun-filled experiences they will never forget. The adjacent coastline and city lights provide the perfect backdrop at Altitude on Level 28, one of Nha Trang’s highest bars and the latest place to be seen.

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Duration: 5 HRS Price from $82pp

Duration: 8 HRS Price from $109pp

Duration: 6 HRS Price from $211pp

Nha Trang City Tour Nha Trang by Bicycle Nha Trang Boat Tour Begin with a visit to the Oceanographic Cycle to a fishing village by Bong Bridge Board a private boat and cruise to the Tri Institute, built by the French in the early 20th century. View the huge humpback whale skeleton found by a farmer digging in North Vietnam. Still preserved in good condition, thousands of other specimens chemically preserved for science are viewable here. Next stop is Ponagar Cham Towers, built around the 8th century. The Cham built their towers and temples without cement and to this day, the tower still stands strong. The last stop is Chong Rocks Promontory, an impressive arrangement of boulders.

Duration: Day Pass Price from $64pp

with thousands of fishing boats and houses on stilts where the locals are busy with cutting and drying fish on the river banks. Continue on to Long Son Pagoda, with a white giant Buddha statue on the hill top. Your next stop is the Ponagar Cham Towers, a complex of temples followed by a ride to Chong Rocks Promontory which has legend talks of giants and fairies. The last stop is Thap Ba Hot Spring Centre to try a mineral and mud spa. This is a wonderful place to relax and loosen the muscles.

Duration: 18 Holes Price from $289pp

Nguyen Aquarium with innumerable kinds of salt water fish. Explore the nearby fishing village where you will jump into a traditional Vietnamese basket-boat - enjoy this fun once-in-a-lifetime experience. Next sail on to Hon Mun Island one of the most beautiful bays in Nha Trang. Swim and snorkel amid the coral and multi-coloured fish. Leaving Hon Mun Island behind, sail on to Hon Tre Island to feast on a seafood lunch with plenty of time to relax and enjoy the surrounds and crystal seas.

Duration: 2days/1night Price from $478pp

Vinpearl Land Day Pass Golf at Vinpearl Explore Dalat Located on Hon Tre (Bamboo Island), Vinpearl Enjoy a round of golf at Vinpearl Golf Nha Escape Nha Trang for the night and head Land Nha Trang is a fun and friendly amusement park; and to add to the excitement, you get there via the world’s longest cable car over water. There are plenty of rides of the up and down, round and round kind plus a 3D cinema, games arcade, aquarium and performances. The waterpark is a highlight for many with slides, a lazy river, wave pool and a children’s splash pad – a convenient way to cool down in scorching Nha Trang heat.

Trang, located on its own picturesque valley along an 800 metre stretch of pristine white sand beach on Hon Tre Island. This impressive 18hole, par 71 championship master piece offers a unique island golfing experience with blue ocean views. It provides a challenging layout of 6787 yards stretching over 180 hectares, meandering through the valley along the lake banks and seashore with soothing breezes flowing through the palms. Most tees are elevated to give golfers an excellent view of the challenge ahead.

*All prices are per person, twin share, based on low season including breakfast

to Dalat – the jewel of the Central Highlands. Centred around a lake, golf course and surrounded by hills and waterfalls, the area enjoys a spring like temperature providing a nice respite from the tropical heat. Enjoy visits to Tuyen Lam Reservoir, Truc Lam Grandiose Temple, the Summer Palace of Bao Dai, the Dalat Flower Garden and Crazy House - an outrageously designed artistic house. There is also plenty of time at leisure to either relax or explore on your own.

Nha Trang Sightseeing

NHA TRANG

Ho Chi Minh City

HO CHI MINH CITY Commonly referred to as Saigon, Ho Chi Minh City is the heart and soul of modern Vietnam and is both recapturing the glory of its past whilst moving rapidly into the 21st century. Stunning colonial architecture and historic landmarks such as the Notre-Dame Cathedral, Reunification Palace and the Central Post Office, stand proud of a remarkable history, whilst modern skyscrapers rising beside the traditional narrow alleyways, begin to transform the city. Divided into 24 districts, traffic chokes the tree line streets whilst the locals merely go about their daily business. Districts one, three and five is where most of the action takes place with fine restaurants, rooftop bars, shops selling imported luxury goods and a recent surge of café culture. For those looking for a bargain, head to Ben Thanh Market along with Saigon Square. Home to the chilling yet captivating War Remnants Museum, a trip to the south is not complete without discovering the Cu Chi Tunnels, built and inhabited by Viet Cong.

Silverland Central Hotel & Spa

May Hotel From

From

$64

$58

Step outside this hotel and enjoy easy access to a variety of wonderful restaurants along with the Opera House and Vincom Centre Shopping Mall also just a block away. Guest rooms are basic yet comfortable and offer complimentary WiFi. From all the walking you’ve experienced in your Ho Chi Minh City stay, head to the hotel spa for an indulgent foot massage leaving you well prepared for the next day. The hotel also features a swimming pool, a fitness centre and sauna facility.

Located in the heart of District One and just a few minutes from Ben Thanh Market and many traditional Vietnamese shops and eateries, this is the perfect central hotel. With a choice of room categories including Family Suites, each room features wooden floors and complimentary WiFi. The rooftop bar OMG! is a highlight and offers spectacular views of the busy city from above. Offering a different form of enjoyment is the KL Spa, providing a variety of body treatments.

Grand Hotel Saigon

Caravelle Saigon From

$100

Considered one of the oldest hotels in Ho Chi Minh City, this restored French colonial style hotel sits nestled in a scenic riverside area. With guest rooms and suites split over two wings, the Ancient Wing and the Luxury Wing, each room offers comfort with an inviting atmosphere. After a day of exploration, relax at the Le Grand Spa or in the outdoor swimming pool. Located on Level 20, head to Grand Café the outdoor rooftop bar, the perfect place to enjoy a pre or post dinner cocktail or beverage.

Liberty Central Saigon City Point From

$98

Well located on Pasteur Street in downtown Ho Chi Minh City, this modern and contemporary hotel is within easy walking distance to Le Loi Boulevard and the Saigon River. Comfort and relaxation abound in well-appointed guest rooms which all feature abundant natural light and plush bedding. Exclusive for guests staying on the Executive Level or above, the Executive Lounge offers additional benefits including a daily evening cocktail and canapé service.

From

$163

Since 1959, this hotel has been Ho Chi Minh City’s landmark 5-star address in the heart of the business, shopping and entertainment district. Guest rooms are split amongst two wings - the Opera Wing and the Heritage Wing.

Well-appointed rooms include all amenities along with complimentary WiFi. Secluded and private, the freeform swimming pool at the hotel is the ideal place to relax with a cool drink or swim a few laps. Whether you’re looking for an elegant afternoon tea, an innovative five-course menu, your favourite martini or a seafood buffet, you’re spoilt for choice with six superb dining outlets available. A key feature of the hotel is the rooftop signature bar – Saigon Saigon Bar with its huge wooden bar and open shutters it offers a great place to relax whilst taking in views out to the city.

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Duration: 1.5-2 HRS Price from $29pp

Duration: 2 HRS Price from $55pp

Duration: 5 HRS Price from $76pp

Concierge Welcome Good Morning Saigon! Saigon City Tour If you’re new to Ho Chi Minh City or Vietnam Rise early and see the city in a different light Ho Chi Minh City, or Saigon has a very and unsure of places of interest, the best eateries in town, where to exchange money, how to barter correctly, then this Concierge Welcome is for you. A guide will meet you for an orientation of the city, giving you a brief introduction from a local perspective and will be able to answer any questions you may have. You’ll receive a welcome pack and be taken on a short walk around downtown Ho Chi Minh City. Wallk via the historic Post Office, Notre Dame Cathedral and the War Museum.

Duration: 6-7 HRS Price from $150pp

as you observe it come alive. The streets have gentle commotion compared with the hustle and bustle during the day. Enjoy the morning air as you walk around the inner city with the chance to get up close to some historical buildings. See local cafés filled with morning chatter, in the park you’ll witness the daily morning exercise regimes whilst at the fresh produce markets the sellers are already trading. On this tour experience Ho Chi Minh City like never before.

Duration: 3 HRS Price from $92pp

mixed past. Gain an insight into the city as you travel through the central downtown area with tree lined boulevards and the French inspired colonial buildings sitting side by side next to traditional shop houses. Stop to see the impressive Notre Dame Cathedral and the notable Post Office. Visit the War Remnants Museum, a stark reminder of the difficult past before visiting the Fito Museum of Traditional Vietnamese Medicine. The tour ends with a visit to the bustling Ben Thanh Market.

Duration: 4-5 HRS Price from $197pp

Colonial Heritage Cyclo City Experience Road to Freedom Get to know Ho Chi Minh City on this full day What better way is there to explore the city other Board a modern speedboat for the scenic tour. Begin with a stop to see the Notre Dame Cathedral and the historic Post Office. Catholics still gather to the Gothic-inspired cathedral for worship and the Post Office is still open for transactions. For lunch sample the hugely popular ‘Pho’ (noodles). Visit the Fito Museum of Traditional Vietnamese Medicine with some of the Vietnamese medicine dating back to the Stone Age. Next, drive to Thien Hau Pagoda before stopping at Binh Tay Market and bustling Cho Lon (Chinatown).

than joining the locals on the road. Travel by cyclo – a traditional three wheeled bicycle taxi. Sit back and relax as your cyclo driver navigates you via the Saigon River and through the old market on Ham Nghi Street. Next visit Tao Dan Park, a popular place amongst the locals. A stop will be made at the Notre Dame Cathedral and the Post Office. Ride to the War Remnants Museum, displaying exhibits from the Vietnam War. Ride past the Reunification Palace with the last stop at Ben Thanh Market.

*All prices are per person, twin share, based on low season including breakfast

boat ride to the Cu Chi Tunnels. As you depart the city, observe the impressive skyline merging into busy waterways followed by sedate parts of the river. On arrival watch an educational video outlining the history of the tunnels and how they were used during the American War. The tunnel system stretched over 250km and was three levels deep. Today the remaining tunnels have become a popular attraction giving a unique experience and a feel of what underground life in the American War must have been like.

HO CHI MINH CITY SIGHTSEEING

VIETNAM SMALL GROUP TOURS

HO CHI MINH CITY

Ho Chi Minh City Sightseeing

HO CHI MINH CITY

Duration: 5 HRS Price from $111pp

Duration: 3 HRS Price from $76pp

Duration: 8-9 HRS Price from $193pp

CuTravel Chi byTunnels HoVietnamese Chi Minhcuisine City isCooking Class Mekong Delta Tour road to the Cu Chi Tunnels. On mouth-watering and Escape Ho Chi Minh City for the day and arrival watch an educational video outlining the history of the tunnels. The network included innumerable trap doors, specially constructed living areas, storage facilities, weapons factories, field hospitals, command centres and kitchens. Walk through the grounds and through a tunnel to gain an insight and feel of what underground life in the American War must have been like. For those interested there is a rifle range where rounds can fired from an AK47 or M16 (additional charge payable direct).

Duration: 4 HRS Price from $113pp

unforgettable, no doubt leaving you yearning to indulge in the flavours back home. So if you are a passionate cook or simply curious, opt for a cooking class and enjoy covering five traditional Vietnamese dishes. Choose from a morning or afternoon class with set day menus. Learn about Vietnamese ingredients and how they are used together. You will receive recipes and at the end of the class you will sample the delights of your efforts. Note: A morning market visit can be included at an additional charge.

Duration: 4 HRS Price from $242pp

travel by road to the Mekong Delta, known as the fruit bowl of Vietnam. On arrival near My Tho board a boat for a magical experience through some of the Mekong tributaries. Visit orchards and bonsai gardens and gain an insight into daily life of the river. You will get to sample an array of fruit and witness local home industries including rice paper making and sweet making with the opportunity to purchase some of the product. A stop is made at a local restaurant for lunch before returning to the bustling city.

Duration: 1 HR Price from $52pp

Street Food Tour Vespa Foodie Tour A This O Show Ticket If you are a bit nervous to try the much talked This special ride is designed for the food lover evening make your way to the historic about Vietnamese street food, then this is the way to do it. Begin your tour with a brief stop at a local park – “people watch” as you observe evening exercises and chattering groups. Continue on to sample some popular local street food. Walk past eateries and into the small alleyways revealing some of the best street food stalls found in the city and popular amongst the locals. Indulge at a café serving delicious desserts and Vietnamese coffee before ending your night at a live music café.

at heart. Sit back, relax and be a passenger on the most famous scooter in the world. The advantage of a Vespa tour in the evening is being able to experience the nightlife of the city the way locals do. Sample a variety of seafood, local food and bars in a short amount of time. A food and beer expert is present during this tour and will introduce you to the most delicious food in the city. Note: The itinerary will be personalised to your specific palate and culinary dreams on this unique foodie spin.

Saigon Opera House for an evening attending the sophisticated and cultural A O Show. The show combines a fusion of acrobatic arts and dance accompanied by live music which takes you through rural and urban Vietnam via a series of theatrical sketches. The song lyrics are in Vietnamese, enhancing the scenes of everyday life and igniting the imagination. The visual effects, exuberant energy and stunning choreography create a feast for the senses – this is a fun show with entertainment for all ages!

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Providing a lifeline to millions of people, the river offers a fascinating insight into the daily life of the locals – observe bartering skills at bustling floating markets, taste the potency of locally brewed rice wine, witness small family traditional candy businesses go about their tasks and watch artisans create beautiful pieces of art. The sights, sounds and smells of the Mekong River will truly tantalise the taste buds. For those who would like to explore this area from a different view point, a river cruise offers the perfect vantage point – please see the Active Asia River Cruising brochure for river cruising options.

2days/1NIGHT

3days/2NIGHTS

Includes return transfers from Ho Chi Minh City, hotel accommodation, breakfast, lunch and dinner and sightseeing

Includes return transfers from Ho Chi Minh City, hotel accommodation, select meals and sightseeing

INCLUDES

FROM $883

FROM $452

Deep into the Mekong CaiEscape RangfromFloating Markets Life on the Mekong Delta is far from anything you’ve witnessed in the Ho Chi Minh City and travel to the Mekong region. On arrival at Cai Be board a private boat to travel the river and its estuaries. You will witness daily life including the Cai Be Floating Market. Stops are made to visit home industries including local orchards, rice paper and sweet makers. Cruise along the Tien River to witness the peaceful tranquil life of villagers, admire the natural vegetation and rural scenery the Mekong Delta is renowned for. Rise early and witness the biggest floating daily market in the delta - Cai Rang Floating Market. Boats filled with products anchor along the banks of the river selling their goods.

hustle and bustle of Ho Chi Minh City. Journey to Cai Be and traverse the waterways, local industries and communities of the river. Encounter an early start as you head to Cai Rang Floating Market, an amazing spectacle awaits as you witness the daily ritual of the markets – photo opportunities abound here. Transfer to Chau Doc where you will visit a floating fishing village to see how the locals breed Cat Fish – the most important product of this province. Visit a local temple, followed by a drive to the summit of Sam Mountain with views stretching across to Cambodia.

4days/3NIGHTS

2days/1NIGHT

Includes return transfers from Ho Chi Minh City, hotel accommodation, breakfast, lunch and dinner and sightseeing

Includes: Transportation, one night aboard the Mekong Eyes, select meals, English speaking guide aboard the cruise and a hydrofoil ticket to Phu Quoc

INCLUDES

FROM $1270

FROM $589

Mekong Delta by Bicycle Mekong Eyes The bicycle is a perfect way to discover the distinct scenery of the Offering an excellent opportunity to travel between Ho Chi Minh City Mekong Delta. Designed to take you off the main routes, the adventure begins in Vinh Long and visits islands in the Mekong with a support vehicle in tow. Travel out of Ho Chi Minh City before beginning your cycling adventure. Cycle along secluded back roads passing through local villages and community industries with stops at local temples along the way. Admire the colourful life on the river as happy children frantically wave. Take a boat trip to witness a floating market at a busy river junction where you will see local produce being sold from a multitude of boats. Total Cycle: 145km

and the island destination of Phu Quoc via the Mekong Delta, a night on board the Mekong Eyes will offer a truly relaxing vibe. Transfer overland from Ho Chi Minh City to Cai Be and embark on a wooden cruise boat. Sit back and watch the fantastic scenery and the daily life of the Mekong people with chances to disembark for guided leisurely strolls through the villages. Take in the scenery with many fantastic photo opportunities to be had. Disembark at the waterfront town of Rach Gia and board a hydrofoil bound for Phu Quoc.

*All prices are per person, twin share, based on low season including breakfast

Mekong Delta TOURS

Mekong Delta Accessible from Ho Chi Minh City, in Southern Vietnam, the mighty Mekong River flows into a rich delta with thousands of waterways forming a labyrinth of major currents and secluded canals that are lined with vegetation, mangrove swamps and verdant rice fields.

Southern Vietnam Tours

Southern Vietnam

Saigon in Brief

If time is short and you want a quick overview of Ho Chi Minh City, commonly called Saigon, this private tour is for you including an afternoon at leisure.

3days From

$267

Hello Ho Chi Minh City

Explore Ho Chi Minh City like never before â&#x20AC;&#x201C; encounter the best of city from a different perspective whilst having fun at the same time!

5days From

$615

Best of the South

This four-night tour covers the highlights of Ho Chi Minh City including an overnight stay in the culturally diverse Mekong Delta a great insight into the South.

5days From

$794

Day 1: Ho Chi Minh City

Arrive in Ho Chi Minh City. An English speaking local guide will meet you at your hotel for an orientation, explaining all about Vietnam, the best places to exchange money, recommended places to eat, to shop and explore. A short walk will show you the layout of the city as well as a chance to view the replica Notre Dame Cathedral and the majestic Post Office building. You will also be taken to the War Remnants Museum, a chilling yet captivating encounter (optional). The evening is free to spend at leisure to further explore or to simply relax.

Arrive in Ho Chi Minh City and transfer to your hotel.

Arrive in Ho Chi Minh City and take a walking tour of the city. Early French occupation has left some wonderful and historic buildings. Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll also be given the opportunity to head to the War Remnants Museum.

Day 2: Ho Chi Minh City (B)

After breakfast, travel to the Cu Chi Tunnels approximately 70km from Ho Chi Minh City. Spread over 250km, the tunnels were used by the Viet Cong during their fight with the American forces. See how they lived underground with your own opportunity to experience crawling through if you wish. On the return to Ho Chi Minh City visit a lacquer ware workshop to learn how this wonderful, highly polished art is made. The afternoon is spent at leisure to shop or stroll the boulevards.

Day 2: Ho Chi Minh City (B)

This morning, explore the city by a traditional cyclo, a three-wheeled bicycle taxi. Sit back and relax as your experienced cyclo driver pedals you through the streets. Lively culture awaits this evening with a choice of either a Street Food Tour or a Vespa Foodie Tour. The street food tour allows you to discover and sample authentic Vietnamese flavours in an unforgettable walking experience, whilst the Vespa tour is a unique food tour where you can sit back, relax and be a passenger on the most famous scooter in the world, sampling food along the way! Day 3: Ho Chi Minh City (B)

Today encounters an early morning start as you journey to the Cu Chi Tunnels. Gain an insight into the history of the tunnels and how they were used during the American War. At its height the tunnel system stretched over 250km from Ho Chi Minh City to the Cambodian border and was three levels deep.

Day 3: Ho Chi Minh City (B)

Day 4: Ho Chi Minh City (B)

Today tour arrangements end upon check out from your hotel.

Spend the day at leisure. Opt for shopping at Ben Thanh Market, take a leisurely stroll along the riverfront or add on a Mekong Delta day tour, a labyrinth of waterways with floating villages and cottage industries.

Day 2: Ho Chi Minh City (B)

Rise early to capture the magic of Ho Chi Minh City coming to life. Walk around downtown stopping for a traditional style coffee before heading to the produce section of Ben Thanh Market. Return to your hotel for breakfast, after which you will depart the city bound for Cu Chi Tunnels - the myriad of underground war passageways will amaze you. Day 3: Ho Chi Minh City - Mekong Delta (B, L, D)

Leave the city behind and travel to the Mekong Delta. Stop en-route to visit the intricate Cao Dai Temple. On arrival at Cai Be board a private boat and explore the small estuaries. Here you will see typical Mekong Delta rural life. Late afternoon, arrive at a local guesthouse on the riverbank. Help prepare dinner or cycle along the village paths. Accommodation is basic; some with shared rooms and stretcher type beds, but the experience is magical. Day 4: Mekong Delta - Ho Chi Minh City (B)

After breakfast visit a local brick kiln and a floating village. Explore the local markets before the drive back to Ho Chi Minh City.

Day 5: Ho Chi Minh City (B)

Today transfer to Ho Chi Minh City Airport where tour arrangements end.

Today tour arrangements end upon check out from your hotel.

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Nearby stunning sand dunes are a popular visit along with the fishing town of Phan Thiet, however, the majority of the activity takes place along the beach with an array of water sports on offer. Kayaks, jet-skis, wind-surfing and kite-surfing are great options with the steady wind conditions. It’s almost impossible to get lost in Mui Ne, as everything is spread out along a 10km stretch – the resorts are flanked beachside whilst the restaurants and shops are along the non-seaward side. However you choose to spend your time in Mui Ne, it will no doubt be a relaxed one.

Bamboo Village Beach Resort & Spa From

$74

Located on the beachfront, this resort makes the most of its natural namesake with bamboo being used throughout. Overlooking Mui Ne Beach with delightful gardens throughout the property, this resort features a choice of either stand-alone thatched bungalows or modern villa rooms all finished in a combination of rustic and contemporary Vietnamese style. Enjoy the breezy salt air mingling with the lulling waves under the thatched roof at the East Cape Bar serving a long list of beverages.

Duration: 10 HRS Price from $277pp

Mia Resort Mui Ne

Anantara Mui Ne Resort & Spa From

$125

This resort is located on a prime stretch of beach and offers stunning, boutique-style accommodation set amid lush tropical gardens. With the swimming pool, poolside bar and restaurant being the focal point of the resort, they offer a superb location to unwind. Enter the retreat of Xanh Spa offering a range of revitalising therapies – opt for alfresco style or in a treatment room. For the more energetic there is a water sports centre for kite and windsurfing, sailing and kayaking in the bay.

Duration: 4 HRS Price from $52pp

From

$189

Set on Mui Ne’s pristinely sweeping beach, this resort offers a unique and unforgettable way to experience the southern coast of Vietnam. Blending Vietnamese tradition and legendary Anantara service, the resort embodies contemporary grace infused with touches of Vietnamese charm. Nestled amid enchanting gardens, plunge into the swimming pool or wile away the hours with an indulgent and soothing spa treatment before starlit evening drinks on the beach.

Duration: 2.5 HRS Price from $52pp

Explore Vinh Hy Bay Sunrise Sand Dunes Sunset Sand Dunes Escape Mui Ne for the day and head to Vinh Mui Ne is famous for its enormous sand Travel by jeep to the Fairy Spring, a natural Hy Bay. A near 3.5 hour scenic drive, Vinh Hy is a gorgeous natural harbour between Phan Rang and Nha Trang. The adventure starts with a glass bottom boat ride which will take you out to see the coral reef. Admire the coral through the glass bottom or take a dip in the clear, gentle sea and snorkel, watching as myriads of colourful fish flit around the white, crisp corals. Continue on with a fishing trip, before enjoying lunch at a floating restaurant to savour the fresh seafood of Vinh Hy.

dunes. Rise early and travel by jeep to the White Sand Dunes to catch the first sunrise of the day. Enjoy sand-sliding or quad-biking (additional cost). Visit the Red Sand Dunes, a contrasting colour to the dunes just visited. Continue on to the nearby fishing village where there is a hive of activity as the fishermen and thousands of fishing boats deliver their products from the sea to the local markets. End the morning with a visit to the Fairy Spring, a natural beauty spot with a nice canyon.

*All prices are per person, twin share, based on low season including breakfast

beauty spot with a nice red canyon. Make a stop at a nearby fishing village and overlooking Mui Ne Bay with the amazing views of the clustered boats. Continue on to the White Sand Dunes in time for sunset. Enjoy sand-sliding or quadbiking (additional cost). The dunes are striking by themselves but they also border serene lake filled with lotus blossoms. Next head to the lesser visited Red Sand Dunes from which you can see all of the scenery of Mui Ne.

Mui Ne

MUI NE A popular getaway from Ho Chi Minh City, Mui Ne offers a true laid back beach resort experience. Just a four hour drive from the city will see you arrive at long stretches of powdered sand, calmed with cooling winds and a choice of intimate beach resorts.

Phu Quoc

PHU QUOC Located in the warm waters of the Gulf of Thailand, Phu Quoc Island is accessible by a 50 minute flight from Ho Chi Minh City. Although, majority of Phu Quoc is dedicated to national park and protected marine environment, development is fast and furious for this island, not much smaller than the size of Singapore. With an easy going and relaxed atmosphere there are still plenty of areas where you can enjoy the experience of finding a remote beach lined with coconut trees and calm blue waters. Located on the west of the island, Truong Beach, aptly named Long Beach, is the main resort area and stretches for near 20km, enjoying easy access to the main town of Duong Dong. Blessed with a favourable natural setting, there are basic walking tracks through the national park however the true treasures are found hidden below the surface where a panorama bursts into a virtual array of colours and corals.

Long Beach Resort

MGallery La Veranda Resort From

$108

Tucked away in Duong Dong Town occupying a prime spot on an idyllic stretch of beach, recharge and nurture yourself with a stay at this resort. Accommodation is spread amongst two wings – the Ancient Wing featuring unique wooden architectural designs and classic furnishings whilst the Modern Wing is tastefully designed to accentuate minimalistic comforts from home. Lang Sen offers favourite Vietnamese flavours and provides a charming setting with lovely views overlooking the resort’s beautiful lotus pond.

Duration: 6.5 HRS Price from $258pp

From

$202

Designed to reflect the ambience of a colonial seaside mansion, this boutique resort is set in tropical gardens on a stretch of beautiful white sandy beach. Guest rooms are luxurious with understated furnishings, while artwork and additional fittings are used sparingly - the attention to detail is impressive. Commanding stunning views over the ocean, The Pepper Tree Restaurant offers a fine dining experience whilst Le Bar is breezy and inviting with a sophisticated Art Deco design.

Duration: 5.5 HRS Price from $154pp

Vinpearl Resort Phu Quoc From

$126

Offering a tropical haven of splendour and serenity, this large resort is a part of the Vinpearl complex which includes an amusement park Vinpearl Land, a great adventure Vinpeal Safari and an international standard 27-hole golf course Vinpearl Golf Club Phu Quoc. A great choice for families or friends travelling together, the resort caters to all needs with villas including kitchen facilities. Indulge in a pampering spa treatment at Vincharm Spa, relax at the sizeable pool or on the private beachfront.

Duration: Day Pass Price from $50pp

Phu Quoc by Boat Explore North Phu Quoc Vinpearl Land Day Pass Your day begins with a drive to the South An On this tour discover the highlights found in Vinpearl Land is an amusement park which is Thoi Harbour where you will board a private boat for fishing and snorkelling. Take the opportunity to cool yourself in the sea and snorkel amid the coral and multi coloured fish. Then enjoy a few hours of fishing enjoyment. All the bait and tackle you’ll need will be provided. A seafood lunch will be served on board with the crew more than happy to prepare the fish that you catch for your lunch. On the return journey stop at a hidden treasure “Sao Beach” with its white sands and turquoise water.

northern Phu Quoc including a local pepper farm where you will learn about the harvest of pepper commonly found in all households; take a walk through the National Park; visit Nguyen Trung Truc Temple and Ganh Dau Cape where you can view the Cambodian border (weather dependant). Continue on to Dai Beach followed by a visit to a local fish sauce factory – Nuoc Mam is a speciality fish sauce of Phu Quoc. The last stop for the day is at a wine vineyard where Sim wine is produced from a gentle Rose Myrtle flower.

part of the Vinpearl Phu Quoc Resort. It has a 5D theatre, an indoor games zone, an underwater world, a dolphin lagoon, an amphitheatre, an outdoor games zone, a waterpark and a shopping street. The park has fast waterslides, a lazy river, heart stomping roller coasters, a castle, a ferris wheel, penguins and sharks, and an area to purchase food – it makes for a great day out from the sun, surf and beach of Phu Quoc. The park also has its own shuttle bus with transfers from select locations.

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Vietnam Tours

VIETNAM

Highlights of Vietnam

This tour will give you a great appreciation of the country. Ideal for those with less time who want to see the highlights of Vietnam including Halong Bay.

10days From

$2386

Amazing Vietnam

A wonderful tour covering all aspects of Vietnam departing from Hanoi and travelling via Hue and Hoi An before reaching Ho Chi Minh City.

12days From

$2854

Family Adventure

Specially designed for family travel, this 11-night package covers all the key cities including fun activities for the children and the young at heart.

12days From

$2978

Day 1: Ho Chi Minh City (D)

Day 1: Hanoi (D)

Day 1: Hanoi

Arrive in Ho Chi Minh City and transfer to your hotel. Tonight, enjoy dinner at a local restaurant.

Arrive in Hanoi and transfer to your hotel. This afternoon a brief walking tour introduces you to the Old Quarter and Hoan Kiem Lake. Tonight, taste Vietnamese cuisine at a popular local restaurant

Arrive in Hanoi. This afternoon, Hanoi sightseeing is by cyclo. Tonight, enjoy a Water Puppet Show.

Day 2: Ho Chi Minh City (B, L)

A full day of sightseeing is installed for today. Spend the morning at the Cu Chi Tunnels. In the afternoon, commence a city tour of Ho Chi Minh City. Highlights include the Notre Dame Cathedral, the Post Office, the War Remnants Museum and the Fito Museum of Traditional Vietnamese Medicine. Day 3: Ho Chi Minh City – Hoi An (B)

Today transfer to Ho Chi Minh City Airport for a flight to Danang. Upon arrival in Danang, transfer to your Hoi An hotel. Freshen up then begin a walking tour to discover the historic buildings and gain an insight about this ancient town. Day 4: Hoi An (B)

Spend the day at leisure. You may want to further explore or simply relax. Day 5: Hoi An – Hue (B)

This morning, depart Hoi An and visit Marble Mountain, China Beach and the Cham Museum before travelling via the spectacular Hai Van Pass to Hue. Day 6: Hue (B, L)

After breakfast, begin your tour of Hue, jump aboard a boat for a trip along the Perfume River to Thien Mu Pagoda. Then continue by road to the Ancient Citadel and Khai Dinh Tomb. Day 7: Hue – Hanoi (B)

Today transfer to Hue Airport for a flight to Hanoi. Upon arrival in Hanoi, transfer to your hotel followed by a city tour of Hanoi. The late afternoon and evening is spent at leisure.

Day 2: Hanoi (B)

This morning, enjoy a half day city tour of Hanoi. The afternoon is spent at leisure. Tonight, enjoy a Water Puppet Show. Day 3: Halong Bay Day Trip (B, L)

Today head to Halong Bay for a day cruise through this striking seascape. Return to Hanoi late evening Day 4: Hanoi – Hue (B)

Today, late afternoon transfer to Hanoi Airport for an evening flight to Hue. Upon arrival in Hue, transfer to your hotel. Day 5: Hue (B, L)

Today explore this former Imperial City. Visit Thien Mu Pagoda, the Ancient Citadel, Khai Dinh Tomb and a roadside village specialising in conical hats and incense. Day 6: Hue – Hoi An (B)

Today, traverse the scenic Hai Van Pass. Enroute to Hoi An visit the Cham Museum, Marble Mountain and China Beach. Day 7: Hoi An (B)

Discover this ancient town on a walking tour featuring cobblestone streets filled with cafés, art galleries, markets, and tailors. The afternoon is at leisure. Day 8: Hoi An (B)

Spend the day at leisure.

Day 2: Hanoi (B, D)

Spend the morning at leisure as the afternoon is all about fun! Head to Tay Water Park, then Moon Park with a double corkscrew roller coaster and a giant merry-go-round. Day 3: Hanoi – Halong Bay (B, L, D)

Head to Halong Bay. Board a traditional junk boat for a two-night cruise with various stops included. . Day 4: Halong Bay (B, L, D)

Continue cruising Halong Bay. Day 5: Halong Bay – Hue (B)

Cruise into port and transfer back to Hanoi. This evening, depart on an overnight train to Hue Day 6: Hue (B, L)

Upon arrival in Hue, explore this historic city. Take a boat trip along the Perfume River to Thien Mu Pagoda. Next, visit the Ancient Citadel and Khai Dinh Tomb. Day 7: Hue – Hoi An (B)

Visit the markets in search of the “Hue conical poem hat”, before travelling over the Hai Van Pass. Make a special stop at Duc Son Pagoda which gives shelter to disadvantaged children. Stop for a swim at China Beach before arriving in Hoi An.. Day 8: Hoi An (B)

Take a short walking tour of the ancient town with the afternoon at leisure.

Day 9: Hoi An – Ho Chi Minh City (B, D)

Day 9: Hoi An (B, L)

Depart Hanoi for an overnight cruise around the majestic islands in Halong Bay. Board your junk boat for a relaxing yet captivating cruise.

This morning, transfer to Danang Airport for a flight to Ho Chi Minh City, where the afternoon is spent at leisure. This evening, enjoy dinner at a popular restaurant.

Enjoy a bicycle tour of the surrounding countryside with the afternoon at leisure.

Day 9: Halong Bay – Hanoi (B)

Day 10: Ho Chi Minh City (B, L)

This morning, cruise back into port where you will then transfer back to Hanoi.

Spend the morning at Cu Chi Tunnels followed by an afternoon city tour of Ho Chi Minh City.

Visit Marble Mountain en-route to Danang Airport. Catch a flight to Ho Chi Minh City. Upon arrival, visit the War Remnants Museum. This afternoon visit the Dam Sen Water Park.

Day 10: Hanoi (B)

Day 11: Mekong Delta Day Trip (B, L)

Day 11: Ho Chi Minh City (B, L, D)

Today transfer to Hanoi Airport where tour arrangements end.

This morning, travel to the Mekong Delta. Board a private boat to explore the tributaries.

Travel via boat to the Cu Chi Tunnels. Tonight, enjoy a dinner cruise on the Saigon River

Day 12: Ho Chi Minh City (B)

Today transfer to Ho Chi Minh City Airport where tour arrangements end.

Day 8: Hanoi – Halong Bay (B, L, D)

*All prices are per person, twin share, based on low season including breakfast

Day 10 Hoi An – Ho Chi Minh City (B)

Vietnam Tours

VIETNAM

3 Hotspots on a Shoestring

10days

Be as spontaneous as you like on this barebones itinerary From allowing you to experience Vietnam at your own pace travelling via train. Add additional sightseeing or just soak up the atmosphere.

$859

Treasures & Tastes of Vietnam

Vietnam offers an array of incredible sights, sounds and now tastes on this special package designed to showcase the wonderful range of fresh cuisine across the country.

12days From

$3155

Day 1: Ho Chi Minh City

Day 1: Hanoi (D)

Arrive in Ho Chi Minh City where you will be met and transferred to your hotel.

Arrive in Hanoi. This afternoon, a walking tour takes you to the Old Quarter and Hoan Kiem Lake. Tonight, be introduced to Vietnamese cuisine at KOTO – a restaurant offering a vocational training program.

Day 2: Ho Chi Minh City (B)

Today spend the day at leisure to discover this bustling city. You may like to like to visit Ben Thanh Market for some bargains or choose to add on an Active Asia tour to the Cu Chi Tunnels.

Day 2: Hanoi (B)

Day 3: Ho Chi Minh City - Overnight Train (B)

Day 3: Hanoi – Halong Bay (B, L, D)

Upon check out from your hotel, spend the day at leisure to further explore or stock up on bottled water and snacks for your train journey this evening. You will be met at your hotel for a transfer to Ho Chi Minh City Railway Station for an overnight train to Danang. Note: Trains in Vietnam are very basic, offering shared 4-berth compartments with upper and lower bunk beds. Air-conditioning, a table and light are in each compartment.

Head to Halong Bay for an overnight cruise - enjoy freshly caught seafood and local food from the region.

Day 4: Danang - Hoi An

Upon arrival at Danang Railway Station, you will be met and transferred to your Hoi An hotel where you will spend the next three nights. The remainder of the day is free to spend at leisure. Day 5: Hoi An (B)

Spend the day at leisure. This charming town is a great place for tailor made clothes and souvenirs. Hoi An also boasts an excellent beach, lush countryside surroundings, is close to My Son Holy Land and features several local cooking class restaurants. Ask Active Asia about sightseeing tours on offer. Day 6: Hoi An (B)

Spend the day at leisure. Day 7: Danang - Overnight Train (B)

After an early breakfast, you will be transferred to Danang Railway Station for your train journey to Hanoi. See rural Vietnam by day as you travel north. Spend the night on board the train. Day 8: Hanoi

On arrival in Hanoi, you will be met and transferred to your Hanoi hotel located in the Old Quarter. Day 9: Hanoi (B)

Spend the day at leisure. Early mornings and evenings around Hoan Kiem Lake offer a great opportunity to people watch. The Water Puppet Theatre located across from the lake is a fun showcase of traditional entertainment from the rural sector and is well worth a visit. Day 10: Hanoi (B)

Today tour arrangements end upon check out from your hotel.

Enjoy a city tour covering the main sights of Hanoi with the afternoon spent at leisure. This evening, enjoy a Water Puppet Show.

Day 4: Halong Bay – Hue (B)

Cruise back to port and transfer to Hanoi Airport for an evening flight to Hue. Day 5: Hue (B, L)

Tour Hue - visit Tu Duc Tomb and the Ancient Citadel. Serving a twist on the popular pancake, head to a speciality restaurant to enjoy fresh ingredients served in a pancake with dipping sauces. Day 6: Hue – Hoi An (B, D)

Travel the scenic Hai Van Pass. En-route to Hoi An, visit the Cham Museum, Marble Mountain and China Beach. Tonight, enjoy dinner at a riverside restaurant featuring a sampling menu of the local cuisine. Day 7: Hoi An (B)

On a walking tour explore this quaint town with the afternoon spent at leisure. Day 8: Hoi An (B, L)

Enjoy a cooking class at Red Bridge Cooking School – be taught some key dishes and learn about Vietnamese ingredients. The afternoon is spent at leisure. Day 9: Hoi An – Ho Chi Minh City (B, D)

Transfer to Danang Airport for a flight to Ho Chi Minh City where the afternoon is spent at leisure. This evening, enjoy a Steamboat dining experience – food cooked right at your table, fresh and delicious! Day 10: Ho Chi Minh City (B, L, D)

Experience a day of sightseeing including the Cu Chi Tunnels and Ho Chi Minh City’s main sights. Tonight, feast on a Vietnamese barbeque tiny charcoal tubs at your table with a choice of meats and vegetables for you to grill to taste – all in a fantastic outdoor setting. Day 11: Mekong Delta Day Tour (B, L)

Head to the Mekong Delta - board a private boat to explore some of the tributaries. Visit orchards and local home industries. Sample the array of fruit, freshly caught fish and produce from the region. Day 12: Ho Chi Minh City (B)

Today transfer to Ho Chi Minh City Airport where tour arrangements end.

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ULTIMATE VIETNAM See all the main sights at a leisurely pace with time to explore places of interest to you all whilst making new friends along the way. Enjoy an overnight cruise in Halong Bay, travel the picturesque Hai Van Pass and explore the bustling Mekong Delta. Our friendly English speaking Vietnamese guide looks after you throughout and will reveal to you the fabric of Vietnamese life, history and culture.

VIETNAM SMALL GROUP TOURS

This guided holiday gives you the chance to see the best of Vietnam in an easy going small group, exploring authentic Vietnam whilst staying in centrally located 3 star hotels.

Sapa START

Hanoi

Halong Bay

Mai Chau Ninh Binh

Hue Danang Hoi An

VIETNAM

ULTIMATE VIETNAM 13days/12NIGHTS FROM $2799

GROUP TOUR

Local English speaking guide

Group Size:

Minimum 2 people Maximum 14 people Quality centrally located 3 star accommodation Day 1: Hanoi (D)

Arrive in Hanoi and transfer to your hotel. Late afternoon, discover the bustling Old Quarter by cyclo before dinner at a local restaurant. Day 2: Hanoi (B, L)

Rise early for a ‘Good Morning Hanoi’ walking tour – a great experience as you see Hanoi come to life. Continue on with a half day city tour covering the main sights of Hanoi. Late afternoon and evening is spent at leisure. Day 3: Hanoi - Halong Bay (B, L, D)

This morning head to Halong Bay. Board a traditional junk boat for an overnight cruise stopping at various islands and caves. Day 4: Halong Bay - Hue (B, D)

Cruise back to port, admiring the magical scenery. Transfer back to Hanoi for an early dinner before heading to Hanoi Airport for a flight to Hue. Transfer to your hotel upon arrival in Hue.

Day 5: Hue (B, L)

Today’s sightseeing includes a boat trip along the Perfume River to the Thien Mu Pagoda, the Ancient Citadel and Khai Dinh Tomb. You’ll also make a stop at a road side village well known for their traditional conical hats.

Nha Trang

Mui Ne

Day 6: Hue – Hanoi (B, D)

This morning travel over the spectacular Hai Van Pass making a brief stop at Duc Son Pagoda which gives shelter to disadvantaged children. Make a stop at the top of the pass and China Beach before arriving in Hoi An. Enjoy local specialities for dinner tonight.

Ho Chi Minh City Phu Quoc Island

My Tho FINISH Can Tho Mekong Delta

Day 7: Hoi An (B, L)

Day 11: Ho Chi Minh City - Mekong Delta (B, L, D)

Today begins with a tour to the ancient ruins of My Son – the home to the Cham people centuries ago. The Kingdom at My Son dates back to the 4th century. Today the ruins show testament to the Cham with its sculptures and buildings. Return to Hoi An for a walking tour through the delightful streets of this quaint town. The evening is spent at leisure.

Today depart Ho Chi Minh City for the Mekong Delta. A visit to the Mekong is one of the best ways to experience rural life. Explore a myriad of estuaries by boat and visit local based home industries. Overnight at a local family lodge.

Day 8: Hoi An (B)

Today is spent at leisure. You may like to relax and head to the nearby beach, get clothes tailor made, or simply stroll through the streets. Day 9: Hoi An - Ho Chi Minh City (B, D)

Transfer to Danang Airport for a flight to Ho Chi Minh City. Transfer to your hotel followed by a half day city tour to discover this vibrant city’s landmarks. Tonight head out for a street food tour before enjoying dinner at a local barbeque restaurant. Day 10: Ho Chi Minh City (B, L)

Today visit the Cu Chi Tunnels one of the few intact monuments to the Vietnam War. Late afternoon and evening is spent at leisure.

*All prices are per person, twin share, based on low season including breakfast

Day 12: Mekong Delta – Ho Chi Minh City (B, D)

This morning visit the Cai Rang Floating Market – a mass of boats selling produce and wares. Return back to Ho Chi Minh City by road. Tonight, enjoy a farewell dinner, share stories and celebrate the experiences. Day 13: Ho Chi Minh City (B)

Sadly today is the end of your tour. Transfer to Ho Chi Minh City Airport where tour arrangements end. Guaranteed Departure Dates: 2017 – 20 Mar, 06 Apr, 15 Apr, 08 May, 17 May, 29 May, 08 Jun, 19 Jun, 03 Jul, 24 Jul, 31 Jul, 14 Aug, 28 Aug, 04 Sep, 18 Sep, 25 Sep, 09 Oct, 23 Oct, 06 Nov & 04 Dec 2018 – 15 Jan & 26 Feb Guaranteed departure applies as soon as 2 people are booked on this tour.

VIETNAM SMALL GROUP TOURS

DISCOVER VIETNAM

Designed to show the best of Vietnam at a leisurely pace, this small group tour explores the real Vietnam whilst staying in centrally located, quality 4 star hotels. Visit the main sights of Hanoi with the bustling Old Quarter, cruise Halong Bay, visit the former Imperial City of Hue, traverse the spectacular Hai Van Pass, a winding road where the sea stretches out before you. Enjoy an extended stay in delightful Hoi An, a charming beach town full of delightful art galleries, shops, markets and tailors before exploring Ho Chi Minh City including the infamous Cu Chi Tunnels.

Sapa START

Hanoi

Halong Bay

Mai Chau Ninh Binh

Hue Danang Hoi An

VIETNAM

DISCOVER VIETNAM 12days/11NIGHTS FROM $3490

GROUP TOUR

Local English speaking guide

Group Size:

Minimum 2 people Maximum 14 people Quality centrally located 4 star accommodation Day 1: Hanoi (D)

Arrive in Hanoi and transfer to your hotel. This afternoon enjoy a walking tour, exploring the Old Quarter and Hoan Kiem Lake. Meet the rest of your group at dinner tonight. Day 2: Hanoi (B, L)

This morning visit Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum and his historic house as well as Hoa Lo, the infamous prison nick named the Hanoi Hilton. The afternoon is spent at leisure. Day 3: Hanoi - Halong Bay (B, L, D)

Depart Hanoi for Halong Bay. Board your cruise boat which combines oriental style with contemporary comfort - the perfect recipe for an enchanting and relaxing holiday. Day 4: Halong Bay – Hoi An (B)

For early risers, admire the morning mist or watch the sun rise. Cruise back to port and transfer through to Hanoi Airport for a flight to Danang. Upon arrival in Danang, transfer to your Hoi An hotel.

Day 5: Hoi An (B)

This morning, take a walking tour inside and around the historic old buildings of Hoi An. Ancient shop houses line the streets with the Japanese Covered Bridge a key landmark. The afternoon is spent at leisure.

Nha Trang

Mui Ne

Ho Chi Minh City

Day 6: Hoi An (B)

Discover the ancient ruins of My Son - home to the Cham people centuries ago. Return to Hoi Phu Quoc An by boat with the afternoon spent at leisure. Island

My Tho FINISH Can Tho Mekong Delta

Day 7: Hoi An (B)

Spend the day at leisure to enjoy Hoi An. Day 8: Hoi An – Hue (B)

This morning stop at Marble Mountain and the Cham Museum before travelling via the breathtaking Hai Van Pass to Hue. The evening is spent at leisure in Hue. Day 9: Hue (B, L, D)

A full day tour of Hue includes a boat trip along the Perfume River to the Thien Mu Pagoda, the Ancient Citadel and a visit to the tomb of Emperor Khai Dinh. You’ll also make a stop at a road side village well known for making traditional conical hats. This evening enjoy a special Imperial banquet dinner. Day 10: Hue – Ho Chi Minh City (B)

Transfer to Hue Airport for a flight to Ho Chi Minh City. Transfer to your hotel followed by a half day city tour to discover key sights of this bustling city. End the tour at a local boutique brewery for those who want to sample an ice cold beer to end their day!

Day 11: Ho Chi Minh City (B, D)

This morning, transfer to the wharf for a magical speedboat trip up the river to visit the Cu Chi Tunnels. Return to Ho Chi Minh City and enjoy the afternoon at leisure. Tonight celebrate your tour with a farewell dinner on a stunning evening cruise. Day 12: Ho Chi Minh City (B)

Sadly today is the end of your tour. Transfer to Ho Chi Minh City Airport where tour arrangements end. Guaranteed Departure Dates: 2017 – 21 Mar, 04 Apr, 15 Apr, 29 Apr, 09 May, 20 May, 30 May, 13 Jun, 27 Jun, 11 Jul, 25 Jul, 08 Aug, 22 Aug, 05 Sep, 19 Sep, 03 Oct, 17 Oct, 31 Oct, 14 Nov & 05 Dec 2018 – 23 Jan & 20 Feb Guaranteed departure applies as soon as 2 people are booked on this tour.

www.activeasia.co.nz

The Mekong Delta is one of the most beautiful areas in Vietnam with delightful estuaries filled with homes on stilts, lifestyle orchards and home industries as well as the incredible floating markets. Rural life in Vietnam is a complete contrast to the bustling cities which is what you will also notice as you enter Cambodia. A country that is rapidly emerging, you will have the opportunity to visit both Phnom Penh and Siem Reap with the incredible Angkor Temples.

VIETNAM SMALL GROUP TOURS

MEKONG EXPLORER

On this small group tour, travel from Ho Chi Minh City in Vietnam to Siem Reap in Cambodia via the Mekong Delta.

Sapa

Halong Bay

Hanoi Mai Chau Ninh Binh

VIETNAM Hue Danang Hoi An

CAMBODIA FINISH

MEKONG EXPLORER

Battambang

6days/5 NIGHTS FROM $1345

Siem Reap

Phnom Penh

GROUP TOUR

Rattanak Kiri

Sihanoukville

Chau Doc

Local English speaking guide Phu Quoc Island

Minimum 2 people Maximum 14 people Quality centrally located 4 star accommodation

This morning meet your guide for a briefing and welcome. Depart Ho Chi Minh City for the drive to the Mekong Delta. Board a boat and explore the myriad of estuaries and islands. By road head to Can Tho.

visit to the Daughters’ Visitor Centre, a nonprofit organisation supporting victims of sexexploitation in Cambodia. The centre provides women with paid jobs at the café, spa and clothing boutique with many of the accessories all made by the women in the program.

Day 2: Mekong Delta: Chau Doc (B, L)

Day 4: Phnom Penh – Siem Reap (B, D)

This morning visit Cai Rang Floating Market where fresh produce is bought and sold between boats. Continue by road to Chau Doc. This afternoon visit Sam Mountain, renowned for its traditional pagodas secluded in caves. Visit the main sites of Lady Chua Xu built in 1820, Tay An Co Tu built in 1847 and Thoai Ngoc Hau Mausoleum dated from 1930.

Visit the notorious Tuol Sleng Museum and Killing Fields before transferring to Phnom Penh Airport for a flight to Siem Reap. This evening enjoy a special cultural experience with dinner and a traditional Apsara Show.

Day 3: Mekong – Phnom Penh (B)

Board a boat this morning for a journey up river to Phnom Penh. From your seat, watch life unfold in front of you; encounter tiny villages, bamboo-stilt houses, colourful floating markets, farmers at work and smiling children. On arrival in Phnom Penh, transfer to your hotel followed by an afternoon visit to the Royal Palace and the Silver Pagoda. From here, stop for a

START

Mui Ne

Ho Chi Minh City

My Tho

Group Size:

Day 1: Ho Chi Minh City – Mekong Delta: Can Tho (L)

Nha Trang

Kampong Cham

Day 5: Siem Reap (B, L)

Explore the stunning Angkor Temples. Tour the South Gate of Angkor Thom, a vast area of ruins over a mile on one side, containing many stone temples and other features. Continue to the ruins of Bayon, Baphoun, the Royal Enclosure Phimeanakas and the Elephant terraces. End your tour with the crown jewel Angkor Wat. Angkor Wat is the best preserved example of Khmer architecture in Cambodia and is so grand in design that some rank it among the seven wonders of the world. The evening is

*All prices are per person, twin share, based on low season including breakfast

Can Tho

Mekong Delta

spent at leisure, enjoy a stroll through the lively ‘Pub Street’ and the night markets if you wish. Day 6: Siem Reap (B)

Sadly today is the end of your tour. Transfer to Ho Chi Minh City Airport where tour arrangements end. Guaranteed Departure Dates: 2017 – 01 Apr, 15 Apr, 26 Apr, 10 May, 20 May, 31 May, 10 Jun, 24 Jun, 08 Jul, 22 Jul, 05 Aug, 19 Aug, 02 Sep, 16 Sep, 30 Sep, 14 Oct, 28 Oct, 11 Nov, 25 Nov, 16 Dec 2018 – 03 Feb Guaranteed departure applies as soon as 2 people are booked on this tour

VIETNAM SMALL GROUP TOURS

EXPERIence Vietnam & Cambodia This comprehensive tour of two amazing countries will allow you to enjoy a magical experience as you travel from the cultural north of Hanoi with a cruise through the majestic Halong Bay, on to an extended stay at the ever popular town of Hoi An, before heading south into Ho Chi Minh City.

Sapa

From here discover the Mekong Delta in depth before arriving in Phnom Penh, Cambodia and then through to Siem Reap with the amazing Angkor Temples. On this small group tour, make friends along the way whilst the experienced local guides will give you an insight into these two colourful countries.

START

Halong Bay

Hanoi

Mai Chau Ninh Binh

VIETNAM

Hue

Danang Hoi An

CAMBODIA FINISH

EXPERIENCE VIETNAM & CAMBODIA

Battambang

17days/16NIGHTS FROM $4890

Rattanak Kiri

Siem Reap

Phnom Penh

Mui Ne

GROUP TOUR

Sihanoukville

Chau Doc

Local English speaking guide

Group Size:

Day 12: Ho Chi Minh City – Mekong Delta: Can Tho (B, L)

This morning, depart Ho Chi Minh City for the drive to the Mekong Delta. Board a boat and explore the myriad of estuaries and islands. By road head to Can Tho. Day 13: Mekong Delta: Chau Doc (B, L)

This morning visit the bustling Cai Rang Floating Market – the largest wholesale floating market in the Mekong Delta. Continue by road to Chau Doc. This afternoon visit Sam Mountain. With influence from Chinese, Vietnamese and Khmer cultures, Sam Mountain is renowned for its traditional pagodas secluded in caves and is the site where devout local Buddhists make their annual pilgrimage. Day 14: Mekong – Phnom Penh (B)

Board a boat this morning for a journey up river to Phnom Penh. On board, explore one the most mysterious rivers of the world, the great Mekong, and admire the natural beauty of its timeless scenery. On arrival in Phnom

Ho Chi Minh City My Tho

Phu Quoc Island

Minimum 2 people Maximum 14 people Quality centrally located 4 star accommodation Day 1-11: Itinerary is the same as Discover Vietnam page 36

Nha Trang

Kampong Cham

Penh, you will be met by your local Cambodian guide who will transfer you to your hotel. In the afternoon visit the Royal Palace, the Silver Pagoda and the Daughters’ Visitor Centre, a non-profit organisation supporting victims of sex-exploitation in Cambodia. Day 15: Phnom Penh – Siem Reap (B, D)

Visit Tuol Sleng Museum and Killing Fields before transferring to Phnom Penh Airport for a flight to Siem Reap. This evening enjoy a special cultural experience with dinner and a traditional Apsara Show. Day 16: Siem Reap (B, L)

Today enjoy a full day exploring the stunning Angkor Temples. Tour the South Gate of Angkor Thom followed by the ruins of Bayon, Baphoun, the Royal Enclosure Phimeanakas and the Elephant Terraces. The Bayon Temple (circa 1190) is a Buddhist temple but retains elements of Hindu cosmology and imagery. Standing in the exact centre of the walled city, it represents the intersection of heaven and earth. End your tour by exploring the awe-inspiring Angkor Wat. The “lost city” of Angkor first attracted the interest

Can Tho

Mekong Delta

of Europeans in the 1800’s after Cambodia was colonised by the French. The evening is spent at leisure. Day 17: Siem Reap (B)

Sadly today is the end of your tour. Transfer to Ho Chi Minh City Airport where tour arrangements end. Guaranteed Departure Dates: 2017 – 21 Mar, 04 Apr, 15 Apr, 29 Apr, 09 May, 20 May, 30 May, 13 Jun, 27 Jun, 11 Jul, 25 Jul, 08 Aug, 22 Aug, 05 Sep, 19 Sep, 03 Oct, 17 Oct, 31 Oct, 14 Nov, 05 Dec 2018 – 23 Jan & 20 Feb Guaranteed departure applies as soon as 2 people are booked on this tour.

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Discover Vietnam & The Mekong Waterways

Soak up the vibrant atmosphere of the energetic cities then change pace as you begin to explore rural regions. On board your boutique ship, relax and admire the scenery with visits to floating markets, local home industries and peaceful villages along the way. Visit Phnom Penh and Siem Reap with an incredible day exploring the impressive Angkor temples.

VIETNAM SMALL GROUP TOURS

Designed to show the best of Vietnam at a leisurely pace, this amazing holiday combines our intimate small group tour of Vietnam covering key destinations with a majestic river cruise of the Mekong Delta whilst cruising into Cambodia. Sapa START

Halong Bay

Hanoi

Mai Chau Ninh Binh

VIETNAM

Hue

Danang Hoi An

CAMBODIA DISCOVER VIETNAM & THE MEKONG WATERWAYS

21days/20NIGHTS FROM $6790

GROUP TOUR

Local English speaking guide

Group Size:

Minimum 2 people Maximum 14 people Quality centrally located 4 star accommodation Day 1-11: Itinerary is the same as Discover Vietnam page 36 Day 12: Ho Chi Minh City – Mekong Delta (B, L, D)

This morning, farewell your Vietnam guide as you are hosted by a river cruise company for the next seven nights as you cruise the Mekong Delta. Transfer and board your luxury cruise ship, setting sail along the Mekong River. Day 13: Mekong Delta: Cai Be (B, L, D)

Today a visit is made to Cai Be’s boisterous and colourful floating market on a traditional sampan (a traditional Vietnamese wooden boat). The cruise will halt intermittently to allow you to observe how rice paste, rice paper, rice cookies, rice pop, rice wine and coconut candies are made. In the afternoon, cruise to Sa Dec to tour Binh Thanh Island, an untouched village. Day 14: Border Crossing (B, L, D)

This morning enjoy a short excursion into Tan Chau, a pleasant town near the Cambodian border. Stroll around the colourful local market with lots of regional products.

FINISH

Day 15: Phnom Penh (B, L, D)

Battambang

Siem Reap

Today’s sightseeing includes a tour to the Killing Fields and the Genocide Museum followed by the Phnom Penh Royal Palace, the Silver Pagoda and the National Museum. This evening Sihanoukville enjoy a barbeque dinner along with an Apsara dance performance. Day 16: Angkor Ban – Kampong Cham (B, L, D)

Rattanak Kiri

Phu Quoc

Nha Trang

Kampong Cham

Mui Ne Chau Doc

Ho Chi Minh City My Tho

Can Tho

Mekong

Delta Depart Phnom Penh passing by tranquil Island villages and fishermen. Be transported back a hundred years into an era unaffected by modernity as you take a tour to the rural Angkor Ban Village. The houses here are truly rustic, made by hand without any concrete. You’ll be tranquillity as you cruise to port. Your cruise invited to take part in the daily activities of the comes to an end upon arrival at the Siem Reap villagers to experience village life first hand. Port. Transfer by coach to the city centre where Day 17: Kampong Cham (B, L, D) you bid farewell to your cruise company hosts. This morning visit the pre-Angkorian temple Day 20: Angkor Wat (B, L) of Wat Hanchey. Return to the ship to witness Today discover the incredible key temples of a blessing ceremony performed by local monks. the Angkor complex. Begin with Angkor Thom Then cruise towards Kampong Cham to visit entering via the South Gate and the Bayon Wat Nokor, built within the ruins of an ancient complex before visiting the dazzling Angkor Wat. temple which holds a timeless story.

Day 18: Kampong Chhnang (B, L, D)

Today the ship cruises on to Kampong Chhnang, Cambodia’s “water world” where everything is on stilts balanced on water rich soil. See the Khmer-styled pottery at the Aundaung Russey Village. Then, it’s back to the river for an adventurous motorboat excursion to the wetlands and floating houses in the region. Return to the ship and cruise the narrow and meandering Tonle Sap River.

Day 21: Siem Reap (B)

Sadly today is the end of your tour. Transfer to Ho Chi Minh City Airport where tour arrangements end. Guaranteed Departures Dates: 2017 – 27 Jun, 11 Jul, 25 Jul, 08 Aug, 22 Aug, 05 Sep, 19 Sep, 17 Oct, 31 Oct & 14 Nov 2018 – 23 Jan & 20 Feb Guaranteed departure applies as soon as 2 people are booked on this tour.

Day 19: Siem Reap (B)

The Tonle Sap (The Great Lake) is the flowing heart of Cambodia, giving life to the nation. Enjoy the stillness of the water and the quiet

*All prices are per person, twin share, based on low season including breakfast

Cambodia

Relatively a small country, Cambodia for some is only visited to experience the world-famous temples of Angkor, however the country offers more than meets the eye.

The Khmers have been to hell and back, struggling through years of poverty and bloodshed, most recently from the notorious Khmer Rouge – but of late, the country has risen to a destination which should be a must visit on any Asia holiday plans. The capital city of Phnom Penh, once known as the ‘Pearl of Asia’, offers travellers great sights and relaxing river side dining whilst in Siem Reap, you’ll enjoy a lovely village atmosphere showcasing Cambodian art, culture and creation at the many boutiques. Spend a few relaxed yet inspirational days exploring the temples, taking in the nightlife and exploring the communities on the great Tonle Sap Lake. Regional Cambodia offers a world away from the rest of the country, with rural Khmer life, remote jungles, mountain ranges, rice paddies and a palm fringed coastline. Emerging Sihanoukville and neighbouring islands offer stunning beach breaks rounding off a complete Cambodian experience. Absorb the atmosphere in Cambodia – it’s truly magical.

CAMBODIA

Rattanak Kiri

Siem Reap Battambang

Tonle Sap Lake

Kampong Cham

Phnom Penh Sihanoukville Kampot Koh Rong Archipelago

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Phnom Penh, now the largest city in Cambodia is also the commercial hub which resonates a mixture of traditional Khmer and French colonial architecture. Having emerged from decades of civil war and unrest, the city has now transformed itself into a vibrant bustling capital city with a number of restaurants, bars and hotels appearing. Situated at the confluence of three rivers, the mighty Mekong, the Bassac and the great Tonle Sap, the city exudes provincial charm with plenty to see. Besides the Royal Palace, Silver Pagoda, National Museum, Toul Sleng Genocide Museum and Wat Phnom there are several markets worth visiting not to mention the walkable riverfront boulevard for a leisurely stroll. Incredibly welcoming, don’t be so quick to overlook Phnom Penh on any visit to Cambodia.

Almond Hotel

Patio Hotel & Urban Resort From

$54

Sunway Hotel From

$67

Well located in the heart of the city, this hotel is only a short walk away from attractions like the Royal Palace and the Independence Monument. Guest rooms are comfortable, aesthetically decorated with modern amenities and include complimentary WiFi. The Terrace Corner Restaurant offers alfresco dining or a place to relax with a drink, whilst Yi Sang and Kanji serve Chinese and Japanese cuisine. The hotel also offers a fitness centre making it easy for you to stay fit and well during your travels.

Located in Beung Keng Kang, one of Phnom Penh’s most popular residences, this boutique hotel is contemporary in design. Guestrooms are beautifully decorated with sleek outlines and warm antique furniture. Found on the rooftop is the hotel swimming pool offering a great place to relax along with sweeping views. At the modern breezy poolside bar enjoy a wide selection of wines, cocktails and other drinks. A stay at this hotel will not leave you disappointed.

Sofitel Angkor Phokeethra Golf & Spa Resort

Amanjaya Pancam Suites Hotel

From

$87

Surrounded by historic landmarks, government offices, embassies and magnificent boulevards, this hotel is also within a short walking distance to Phnom Penh’s charming riverfront dining precinct. Well-appointed guest rooms offer complimentary WiFi and views of the cityscape. Step into 12-to-12 Spa to indulge in exquisite pampering, leaving the cares of the world behind. Presenting an enticing selection of freshly baked breads and cakes that are ideal for snacks on day tours be sure to head to the Deli Shop.

Overlooking the two waterways; the From Tonle Sap and the mighty Mekong River, this highly rated boutique hotel is located riverside and within walking distance of the Royal Palace and National Museum.

$118

From

$233

This luxury resort merges French colonial elegance with the ancient grandeur of Angkor. Experience a temple of colours and an intricate choreography of the senses in every stay. Elegantly designed rooms feature beautiful wooden floors, complimentary WiFi and the signature Sofitel My Bed™. Relax in the lavish swimming pool surrounded by lush and opulent landscaping or head to the 18hole championship golf course of Phokeethra Country Club which welcomes professionals and leisure golfers.

*All prices are per person, twin share, based on low season including breakfast

Offering splendid views of the Mekong, spacious suites are decorated in contemporary Cambodian style with handpicked details, such as floor fitted from local rosewood and blackout curtains made from famous Cambodian raw silk. Each suite is decorated with modern reproduction of artefacts from the neighbouring National Museum. Featuring a rooftop lounge overlooking the river, head to Le Moon serving creative and inspiring cocktails with a relaxed atmosphere. Kwest Brasserie, located ground level, offers a fresh and modern concept with cuisine from the grill, along with Asian and Western flavours.

PHNOM PENH

Phnom Penh

Phnom Penh Sightseeing

PHNOM PENH

Duration: 4 HRS Price from $103pp

Duration: 4 HRS Price from $92pp

Duration: 4 HRS Price from $103pp

Discover Phnom Penh The Killing Fields Visit the Independent Monument, and the Royal Visit the notorious Tuol

Country & Spirit Today visit the former capital of Cambodia

Palace, built by King Norodom in 1866 on the site of the old town including the Silver Pagoda. Located within the grounds of the Royal Palace, the Silver Pagoda is so named because of its floor, which is made up of 5,000 silver tiles. The treasures found inside include an encrusted solid gold Buddha encrusted and a small 17th century emerald and baccarat crystal Buddha. End your morning with a visit to Wat Phnom, Phnom Penh’s namesake -from where you can enjoy views over the tree-lined avenues of the city.

between 1618 and 1866 - Phnom Udong. Travel west of Phnom Penh where the hills of the abandoned royal city lie. Several temples, stupas and other structures cover three hills. The walk up the hill provides an excellent countryside view. These hills were also the site of some of the Khmer Rouge’s most prolonged resistance against the encroaching Vietnamese army in 1979. After time to enjoy and explore the stupas and views of the Cambodian countryside, return to Phnom Penh.

Duration: 6 HRS Price from $134pp

Sleng Genocide Museum. In 1975 Tuol Svay Prey High School was taken over by Pol Pot’s security forces and turned into a prison known as Security Prison 21 (S-21). An estimated 17,000 people were imprisoned and tortured. Walk through this ‘high school’ museum with exhibits showcasing this former Khmer Rouge regime. Continue on to the Killing Filelds of Choeung Ek, a sober reminder of a country torn apart by war. Note: Some exhibits are graphic and may cause distress to some people.

Duration: 4 HRS Price from $135pp

Duration:2days/1night Price from $308pp

Historical Phnom Penh Phnom Penh Foodie Tour Overnight Khmer Village Homestay On this full day tour get to see the dazzling Jump on the back of a motorbike with an This overnight package offers a fantastic white and gold edifice of the Royal Palace and the Silver Pagoda, and exceptionally beautiful Khmer craft at the National Museum. Visit Wat Phnom, from which you can enjoy views over the city. After lunch, visit the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum a chilling former Khmer Rouge prison and interrogation centre. A short drive from here, visit the Killing Fields of Choeung Ek located on the outskirts of Phnom Penh. En-route back to the city, make a brief stop for a spot of shopping at the famous Russian Market.

experienced driver as you are taken around Phnom Penh for a night perspective. Travel amongst the locals on the bustling streets making pit stops for street food tastings. Drive past some of the famous Phnom Penh night sights before stopping at a popular local spot for dining and a refreshing cold drink or local beer. End your night with a rooftop cocktail whilst listening to the latest tunes. This is a great tour to end the day.

opportunity to experience real Khmer village life. Leave Phnom Penh behind and travel to the Baray District offering captivating scenery that includes both vast stretches of green rice fields and a multitude of traditional village houses. Activities at the homestay include a village tour by pony and cart, traditional Khmer dancing, boat making and a fishing expedition or a visit to the weaving and woodcarving workshop. The homestay offers an enticing glimpse of Cambodian culture in natural bamboo huts.

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Retaining its small town charm, this former back packer haven bustles with visitors from afar. Captivating visitors from across the globe, Siem Reap is most renowned for the incredible Angkor Wat, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The equal to Machu Picchu, the Pyramids of Giza or any other wonder of the world, Angkor Wat will hold you in its spell. Apart from the temples, the nearby floating villages on the Tonle Sap Lake are also worth viewing along with traditional Apsara dances. By day, Siem Reap is a buzz with restaurants, bars, boutique shops, colourful markets and tuk tuks, with evenings offering little respite. Pub Street, named for the numerous pubs that line the street offers a relaxed pedestrianonly atmosphere whilst King’s Road, the latest food and shopping establishment offers a secluded space with ambience, detail and eloquence. As the major tourist hub of Cambodia, Siem Reap will not disappoint.

Frangipani Villa Hotel

Tara Angkor Hotel From

$43

Empress Angkor Resort & Spa From

$46

This hotel is in a quiet neighbourhood one block east of the river and a short stroll from the popular Pub Street area making it an ideal base from which to explore. Guest rooms are furnished with locally made custom furniture keeping with the architectural style of the hotel. Offering complimentary WiFi, catch up with loved ones back home or make use of the guest bicycles for an early cycle. After a day of exploring take a refreshing dip in the swimming pool or opt for a cool beverage in the shady garden restaurant.

Conveniently located, this hotel is a short drive from the Angkor Temple Complex and the centre of town. Guest rooms are well appointed and offer modern amenities to make your stay enjoyable. Ideal for families or friends travelling together, triple rooms and family suites ensure there is space for all. Learn to prepare and cook favourite Cambodian dishes in the hotel restaurant, one of the greatest souvenirs to take back home or head to Tara Spa for a holistic and therapeutic experience.

Victoria Angkor Resort & Spa

Borei Angkor Resort & Spa

From

$156

A stunning example of fine hospitality and comfort combined with the feel of a bygone era awaits you at this resort. Beautiful colonial design is complemented with outstanding facilities including the salt water swimming pool, extensive spa menu, dining options including the French Le Escale or the Bistrot all day dining and the cosy Le Explorateur Bar. Designed with beautiful wooden floors, stylish furniture and original decorative artefacts, guest rooms offer space with either a patio or balcony.

*All prices are per person, twin share, based on low season including breakfast

From

$51

Combining 10th century Khmer charm and warmth, mixed with modern amenities and style, best describes this resort. Conveniently located, the city centre is just a short tuk tuk drive away. Spend a few hours getting buffed, scrubbed and pampered at the resort spa or laze in the sun by the outdoor pool. With its cosy and relaxing atmosphere, Dynasty Bar serves enticing cocktails with afternoon or evening savouries. Retreat for the night to your comfortable guest room offering a good night’s sleep.

From This upscale resort is ideally situated in the middle of Siem Reap set amidst a lush tropical garden and a short ride away from Pub Street along with the old market, shops and restaurants.

$115

Expressly curated to exemplify the historic customs of the Royal Angkor Empire, guest rooms are rich in detail and steeped in tradition yet still offer modern comforts. With views of the tropical gardens and swimming pool, each room also offers its own secluded balcony. Catch up on the latest news from back home with complimentary WiFi or head to Mudita Spa - a tranquil and serene environment aimed at indulging all of your senses with traditional Cambodian flair. Don’t miss the Cultural Night where authentic Khmer cuisine is exclusively served for dinner while watching the famous Royal Ballet of Apsara.

Siem Reap

SIEM REAP

Siem Reap Sightseeing

SIEM REAP

Duration: 7 HRS Price from $178pp

Duration: 4 HRS Price from $158pp

Duration: 7 HRS Price from $179pp

Best of Angkor Beautiful Banteay Srei This full day tour allows you to see the best Enjoy a trip through the

Angkor Adventure Great for the avid adventurer, discover the

temple complexes of Angkor. Begin with Angkor Thom containing stone temples and other monumental features. Continue on to the Bayon Temple, although it is a Buddhist temple it retains elements of Hindu cosmology and imagery. Saving the best for last, visit the jaw-dropping Angkor Wat – the best preserved example of Khmer architecture in Cambodia. So grand in design, it appears on the Cambodian national flag, a very rare instance of a flag incorporating an image of a building.

variety of different temple styles around Angkor. Visit Ta Prohm, a sprawling monastic complex with massive fig and silk-cotton trees growing from the towers and corridors offering a jungle atmosphere. Next visit Pre Rup, with richly detailed, well-preserved carvings. Stop at Srah Srang to see how huge water reservoirs were created. After lunch climb the temple mountain of Phnom Bakheng (Bakheng Hill), the first major temple to be constructed in the Angkor area offering views of Tonle Sap Lake and at a distance, Angkor Wat.

Flight of the Gibbon This thrilling and safe

Duration: 5.5 HRS Price from $258pp

eco-adventure incorporates the jungle’s natural features while protecting its towering trees and exotic flora and fauna. Nestled in the rainforest, not far from the majestic temples of Angkor, be prepared to soar on zip lines, traverse suspended sky bridges, abseil from towering trees, be amazed by the majesty and magic of the rainforest, and fly like never before. You will zip line from 21 different platforms, cross sky bridges suspended in trees and see some of Cambodian’s most unique wildlife, with views out over the Angkor Park and down into the lush forest below.

Duration: 3.5 HRS Price from $45pp

countryside to visit Banteay Srei - an exquisite miniature, fairy palace in the heart of an immense and mysterious forest; the very thing that Grimm delighted to imagine. Carved not out of the stuff that dreams are made of, but of solid sandstone, this pinkish hue temple is worth the extra effort to experience due to the elaborate architecture and ornate carvings. After exploring this delightful temple a stop is also made at nearby Banteay Samre, one of the smaller temples of the Angkor.

Duration: 1.5 HRS Price from $54pp

Duration: 5 HRS Price from $123pp

Siem Reap Quad Bike Adventure The Great Lake Offering a unique experience, this quad bike Escape the city and visit a floating village adventure is a great alternative way to explore the countryside. Begin with a safety tutorial and lesson on how to drive the quad bike, suitable for beginners through to the proficient. Journey at a leisurely pace through the countryside filled with beautiful green views of rice fields and villages. Enjoy the nature, roaming water buffalo and the smiling Cambodian children along the way. Visit a Cambodian Buddhism monastery and see the local monks who permanently live there.

Duration: 1 HR Price from $31pp

on the Great Tonle Sap - Kampong Khleang. Located on the northern lake-edge the area is more remote and less crowded than the main areas that the tourist masses visit. Enjoy a local wooden boat ride on the lake, visiting the traditional floating village. Kompong Khleang is a permanent community within the flood plain of the lake. Here you’ll see stilt houses as far as the eye can see including schools, three pagodas and much more that a large community requires to function.

Duration: 4 HRS Price from $142pp

Cooking Class Phare Circus Show Ticket Learn how to prepare, cook and garnish Uniquely Cambodian this is Siem

Siem Reap Foodie Tour Drive around Siem Reap for the night on the

traditional and delicious Khmer dishes under the guidance of a professional English speaking chef. Start the half day class with a visit to the local Khmer market with the chef who will explain everything about the vegetables, herbs, spices and other ingredients you will be using. Your class is hands on and interactive, each person has their own cooking station. You will learn how to prepare three courses and make decorative presentations for each dish. Enjoy eating your own creations at the completion of the class.

back of a motorbike with an experienced driver. Travel amongst the locals on the streets making pit stops for street food tastings. Drive past some of the famous Siem Reap night sights before stopping at a popular local spot for dining and a refreshing cold drink or local beer. End your night with a stop on Pub Street for a cocktail whilst listening to the latest tunes. This is a great tour to experience Siem Reap from a different perspective.

Reap’s most unique, authentic, top rated evening entertainment. More than just a circus, Phare performers use theatre, music, dance and modern circus arts to tell distinctive Cambodian stories; historical, folk and modern. The young circus artists will astonish you with their energy, emotion, enthusiasm and talent. Coming from some of the most difficult social and economic backgrounds imaginable, these Cambodian youth transform their lives through art. Note: Different reserved seating options available

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From

$1189

From

$2115

From

$538

4 Rivers Floating Lodge, Koh Kong Province Away from the tourist trail is a land of unspoilt virgin

forest and a perfumed air of peace and solitude. Near four hours from Phnom Penh, this is Cambodia’s first floating eco-lodge. Located on the Tatai River in the Cardomoms, this remarkable eco region is considered to harbour more than 100 mammal species including numerous endangered animals. Cocooned in comfort and surrounded by top-quality furnishings and decoration, each tented villa has a flat screen television, WiFi and mini bar - not that social media will be any match for the natural wonders you will witness from your private extra-large sun lounger balcony where you can enjoy a sunset cocktail – this is luxury in harmony with Mother Nature, relax and let your senses take over. With so much to see and do, it’s easy to resist the temptation to stay in the comfort of your tent. Excursions range from trekking, kayaking, fishing to taking a refreshing dip in the river. Offering culinary options from around the world these are complemented by the in-house sommelier’s choice of wines and spirits from the carefully chosen cellar of fine wines.

Song Saa Private Island, Koh Rong Archipelago

In Cambodia’s untouched Koh Rong Archipelago, islands nestle like dazzling natural jewels in the warm sapphire waters. This resort lies secluded in this magnificent seascape, just 45 minutes by boat from the port of Sihanoukville. With a stay here – think intimate; think luxurious; but above all think harmony. The resort spans the islands of Koh Ouen and Koh Bong, connected by a footbridge over a marine reserve established to safeguard the islands’ reefs and marine life. The resort features luxury overwater, jungle and ocean view villas built with sustainable materials. Inside each expansive villa you will find huge beds, over-sized baths, bespoke furniture, full stocked bar fridges and outdoor showers beside private decks and pools. At the resort’s heart is a world-class restaurant and lounge, spectacularly positioned just off the island’s shoreline and surrounded by sea. A short stroll on the boardwalk will leave you perfectly positioned to take in dramatic sunsets, seascapes and starry nights. As a guest, you’ll be among a handful of lucky adventurers to experience this beautiful, untouched paradise.

Sokha Beach Resort, Sihanoukville Offering a coastal Khmer

experience in the Sihanoukville province, this resort is idyllically situated on a prime location amidst 23.5 hectares of a beautifully landscaped beachfront with long stretches of pristine white sandy beach. With a large room inventory, guest rooms and suites offer modern Khmer design for comfort with either garden views or ocean views. Upgrade to a lagoon water chalet for added privacy – each chalet is elegantly decorated with timber floors, high ceilings, lagoon views, complimentary WiFi, living room area, dining area, kitchenette and a private balcony. With two swimming pools on offer, each with an adjoining children’s pool, they are the perfect place to relax and unwind. Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere along with cool drinks and cocktails from the pool bar nearby. A bountiful of fun is to be had in the Sokha Kid’s Club, whilst for the adults, the Jasmine Spa offers a variety of treatments to indulge all the senses. With a number of dining options on offer, be sure to check out The Deck Tapas Bar enjoying spectacular views of the gulf and Lemongrass Restaurant for a fine dining experience.

*All prices are per person, twin share, based on low season two nights accommodation including breakfast and return transfers.

Regional Cambodia

REGIONAL Cambodia

cambodia TOURS

Cambodia

Angkor in Brief

Ideal for those short on time see some of the most important sites of Angkor at a leisurely pace including the awe-inspiring Angkor Wat.

3days From

$380

Best of Angkor

Focusing on Siem Reap and the magnificent Angkor Temples see the most interesting areas and also explore less visited sites off the beaten track.

4days From

$524

Angkor Adventure

Combining all the ‘must see’ Angkor sites at a leisurely pace and at uncommon times of the day, this tour also includes trekking and kayaking.

4days From

$1510

Day 1: Siem Reap (D)

Day 1: Siem Reap

Arrive in Siem Reap and transfer to your hotel. Enjoy a real insight into the Angkor period and today’s Cambodian culture. Begin with a visit to the Angkor National Museum for an insight into the history behind Angkor. Continue on to the Artisans’ D’Angkor Silk Farm to see how this amazing material is created. Then visit the Old Market to see the variety of stalls and products. After time for shopping or exploring enjoy a traditional Khmer dinner and an Apsara Dance Show.

Arrive in Siem Reap and transfer to your hotel. Enjoy a real insight into the Angkor period and today’s Cambodian culture with visits to the Angkor National Museum, the Artisans’ D’Angkor Silk Farm and the Old Market. Tonight enjoy a traditional Khmer dinner and an Apsara Dance Show.

Arrive in Siem Reap and transfer to your hotel. This afternoon visit Angkor Thom and explore the important sites. You have the choice of either walking along the path of the eight metre high laterite city wall to the Death Gate or continuing around by road.

Day 2: Siem Reap (B, L)

Enjoy a day to discover the incredible key temples of the Angkor complex. Begin with Angkor Thom and the Bayon complex. The vast area of the Angkor Thom ruins contains many stone temples and other features to explore. The Bayon Temple retains elements of Hindu cosmology and imagery. Standing in the exact centre of the walled city, it represents the intersection of heaven and earth. It is known for its enigmatic smiling faces and its extraordinary bas-reliefs. After lunch continue on to visit Angkor Wat, the jewel in the crown of Angkor. Day 3: Siem Reap (B)

Today transfer to Siem Reap Airport where tour arrangements end.

Day 2: Siem Reap (B, L)

Today discover the incredible key temples of Angkor. Begin with Angkor Thom where the ruins form the physical and architectural centre piece of Angkor. The former city is enclosed by a moat and high walls. View the Bayon Temple known for its enigmatic smiling faces and its extraordinary bas-reliefs. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before visiting Angkor Wat - the best preserved example of Khmer architecture in Cambodia.

Travel by road to Srah Srang and then the famous Ta Prohm. Left in much the same condition in which it was found, the photogenic and atmospheric combination of trees growing out of the ruins and the jungle surroundings have made it one of Angkor’s most popular temples. From Ta Prohm, walk through the forest to the seldom visited temple of Ta Nei followed by a climb to Ta Keo Temple. This afternoon, explore more of the Cambodian countryside and secret hidden temples with a half day walk.

Day 3: Siem Reap (B)

Day 3: Siem Reap (B, L)

Today head to Preah Khan. This complex, which means “the sacred sword,” was a Buddhist university, a temple and a monastery. Continue to Neak Pean set on an artificial island, measuring 350 metres on each side, built in the middle of a reservoir which is also man made. Finish with a visit to Ta Som, an unrestored temple, built at the end of the 12th century. Return to your hotel with the afternoon at leisure.

Today a half day kayaking trip to one of the fascinating floating and stilted fishing villages or flooded forest on the edge of the great Tonle Sap Lake allows you to experience a very different lifestyle and unique environment up close. The afternoon is spent at leisure.

Day 4: Siem Reap (B)

Today transfer to Siem Reap Airport where tour arrangements end.

Day 2: Siem Reap (B)

Day 4: Siem Reap (B)

Rise early to enjoy a sunrise tour to witness breath-taking views of Angkor Wat Temple. Continue to explore the central complex and bas-reliefs of Angkor Wat. This afternoon transfer to Siem Reap Airport where tour arrangements end.

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Angkor Experience

Offering an interesting and different way to experience Angkor, cycle beneath towering fig trees amid a thousand years of Khmer history.

5days From

$1135

Discover Cambodia

Discover Phnom Penh with its graceful riverfront, colonial buildings and national monuments and the small and charming town of Siem Reap.

5days From

$852

Cambodia Adventure

Travelling from Phnom Penh to the Angkor temples, meet locals, visit village communities and clamber through the temples like Indiana Jones.

5days From

$739

Day 1: Siem Reap

Day 1: Phnom Penh

Day 1: Phnom Penh (L)

Arrive in Siem Reap and transfer to your hotel. The rest of the day is spent at leisure.

Arrive in Phnom Penh and transfer to your hotel.

Day 2: Siem Reap (B)

Day 2: Phnom Penh (B, L)

After breakfast, cycle to the Angkor Temple complex where you will begin the Grand Circuit, stopping at each major temple area. Late afternoon, return to the temples by car for a sunset view from Phnom Bakheng.

Your full day tour includes a visit to the Independent Monument, the Royal Palace built by King Norodom in 1866 and the Silver Pagoda. Also visit the Wat Phnom Temple, Phnom Penh’s namesake. Enjoy a break for lunch before visiting the notorious Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum followed by the Killing Fields of Choeung Ek.

Arrive in Phnom Penh and transfer to your hotel. Continue on for a sightseeing tour covering the Independent Monument, the Royal Palace and the Silver Pagoda. Next, head to Wat Phnom Temple followed by an afternoon visit to the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum and the Killing Fields of Choeung Ek.

Day 3: Siem Reap (B)

Today enter the temple complex by a much quieter gate. Next, cycle into the countryside and turn off the main tourist road to Banteay Srei, visiting Banteay Samre on the way. Day 4: Siem Reap (B)

Leave the crowds behind today and head towards the small village of Roulous, home to some of the earliest permanent structures built by the Khmers. Continue on to the floating village of Kampong Phluck. After a boat tour around the village, you will either cycle or drive back to the city. Day 5: Siem Reap (B)

Enjoy time at leisure until your transfer back to Siem Reap Airport where tour arrangements end.

Day 3: Phnom Penh – Siem Reap (B, D)

Transfer to the airport for a flight to Siem Reap. Enjoy a real insight into the Angkor period and today’s Cambodian culture with visits to the Angkor National Museum, the Artisans’ D’Angkor Silk Farm and The Old Market. This evening enjoy a traditional Khmer dinner and Apsara Dance Show. Day 4: Siem Reap (B, L)

Discover the key temples of Angkor. Enter Angkor Thom via the South Gate and the Bayon complex. The vast area of the Angkor Thom ruins contain many stone temples and other features to explore. The Bayon Temple is a Buddhist temple but retains elements of Hindu cosmology and imagery. Enjoy a break for lunch then visit Angkor Wat, grand in scale and stunning to look at. Day 5: Siem Reap (B)

Today, transfer to Siem Reap Airport where tour arrangements end.

*All prices are per person, twin share, based on low season including breakfast

Day 2: Phnom Penh to Siem Reap (B)

This morning board the ferry service between Phnom Penh and Siem Reap. Operating seasonally when water levels are high, the service is like an airline seat but often very full. Alternatively, you may choose the bus se rvice overland. Roads are bumpy but you will get to see the countryside and the chaotic roads. Day 3: Siem Reap (B, L, D)

This morning, enjoy a leisurely cycle around the stunning Angkor complex. Note: no visits to temples are included whilst cycling. This afternoon gain an insight into Cambodian culture with a visit to the museum followed by a silk farm. This evening enjoy a Khmer dinner and an Apsara Dance Show. Day 4: Siem Reap (B, L)

On a full day tour, let your Indiana Jones adventure begin. Rise early and visit Ta Prohm offering a ‘jungle atmosphere’; Pre Rup with well-preserved carvings; and the water reservoirs at Srah Srang. After lunch climb the temple mountain on Phnom Bakheng. Day 5: Siem Reap (B)

Today, transfer to Siem Reap Airport where tour arrangements end.

cambodia TOURS

Cambodia

Laos

Relatively undeveloped, this deeply forested and mountainous country is completely landlocked and offers those seeking either peace and connection or adventure, a new world to discover. Despite a somewhat turbulent past, Laos is a wonderful country to visit with some of the friendliest people in Southeast Asia. Laos has a natural beauty combined with a mix of the original Buddhist culture and French influences. The sleepy capital city of Vientiane provides a great introduction to the charms of the country. Enveloped in an atmosphere of peace and solitude, Luang Prabang is the country’s primary claim to fame. Step back in time as you wander the dusty streets with echoes in the air of monks chanting. With a dreamlike landscape of notable limestone karsts, Vang Vieng is bisected by the Nam Song River; Xieng Khouang is home to the ‘Plain of Jars’, attracting numerous crowds to the prehistoric stone megaliths whilst Pakse opens up Southern Laos. Laos runs on a languid pace - slow right down if you wish to explore here.

Phongsali

Ban Houaykay Pakbeng

Luang Prabang

Xieng Khuang

Vang Veng

Vientiane

LAOS Thakhek Savannakhet Saravan

Champasak

Located on a wide bend of the Mekong River, this quaint and easy going capital city offers a range of accommodation, restaurants and cafes with French style architecture, a contrast to the old Buddhist temples dotted around. Due to the city’s size, navigating the streets is easily done either on foot, by bicycle or by tuk tuk with the replica Arc de Triomphe (Patuxai) dominating the city centre. High on your list of sights to see should be That Luang Stupa, which is a symbol of Lao and an icon of Buddhism in Laos. The beautiful Wat Sisaket is a must and is one of the oldest temples in Vientiane. Spend a morning exploring the Lao National Museum which displays an interesting mixture of revolutionary and contemporary exhibitions. Travelling slightly further a far, popular day trips include Xieng Khuang or ‘Buddha Park’, and Vang Vieng, set amid spectacular scenery providing a natural wonderland for the adventurous.

Chanthapanya Hotel

Lao Orchid Hotel From

$82

Ansara Hotel From

$87

Well located, this hotel is within a few minutes’ walk from the banks of the Mekong River including the night markets and nearby restaurants. Tuk tuks are also readily available for the longer explorations. Guest rooms have been tastefully decorated with natural materials, muted colours, woven rattan headboards, earthy-toned décor and all offer complimentary WiFi. Friendly staff compliment the hotel and are always on hand to help. This hotel makes for a comfortable stay.

Exuding traditional charm with exquisite carved timber furniture upon entering the lobby, this hotel offers a homely retreat. Centrally located, the Mekong River and the morning market are just a short stroll away. Guest rooms offer comfort and incorporate wooden Lao-style furniture. Make use of the complimentary WiFi as you relax pool side or whilst enjoying a meal of either customary Lao, Asian and Western cuisine. This is a pleasant and welcoming hotel.

Settha Palace Hotel

Green Park Boutique Hotel From

$226

In the heart of Vientiane stands this French colonial hotel set amongst landscaped gardens surrounding a lush swimming pool. Offering comfort and complimentary WiFi, guest rooms have either garden or pool views. Take in the charming ambience at La Belle Epoque Bar with its eclectic mix of soft tunes then proceed to La Belle Epoque Restaurant to explore the interesting flavours on the Lao menu or select courses from the classic French menu.

*All prices are per person, twin share, based on low season including breakfast

From

$143

This serene hotel is located right in the centre of this historic capital and offers effortless access to Vientiane’s most popular sights and attractions along with being just a short stroll away from the legendary Mekong River. Elegant yet relaxed, the hotel exudes warmth and an inviting feel of a private home with quiet sophistication. Decor is a blend of traditional Lao and Asian contemporary designs with striking black and white photographs depicting Laos’ fascinating culture and sceneries.

From

$145

Offering a classic feeling of stepping back in time to an era of elegant tradition, this hotel abounds in the form of original antique furniture, rich art collections and exclusive nationally renowned beauty.

Offering a daily complimentary shuttle bus service to downtown, explore the city at your own pace. After a day of exploring, relax and enjoy the swimming pool or head to Champa Lao Spa offering unique treatments to create a restorative experience. Dok Dalar Lounge captures the ambience of Lao contemporary design and is the ideal spot to unwind whilst sipping on an exotic cocktail. Enjoy the relaxing atmosphere, warm hospitality and flavours at Sala Nongchah Restaurant in an indoor and open air terrace setting. Retreat for the night to a well-furnished guest room with either garden or pool views.

VIENTIANE

Vientiane

VIETIANE SIGHTSEEING

Vientiane

Duration: 4 HRS Price from $125pp

Vientiane City Tour Explore That Luang Stupa

and Victory Monument Pratuxai before continuing on to Phon Thong Savang – a fresh food market selling a variety of produce and products. Next is a visit to Carol Cassidy’s Lao Textiles Workshop - the studio creates woven art specialising in 100% hand-woven silk. Continue on to visit the COPE Visitor Centre where you will learn about UXO “Unexploded Ordnances” a problem in Laos, the work undertaken by COPE and the CMR “Centre of Medical Rehabilitation” provides disability services for people affected by UXOs.

Duration: 8 HRS Price from $304pp

Duration: 3 HRS Price from $174pp

Duration: 8 HRS Price from $181pp

LaoLaoCooking Class Buddha Park cuisine relies heavily on the freshest Situated southeast of Vientiane, Buddha Park produce and incorporates a range of intriguing flavours, many unfamiliar to the western plates. Begin with an early morning tour of Vientiane’s major food market where you will have the opportunity to investigate these ingredients and gain knowledge of their uses. You will then learn how to pound your ingredients in a mortar and pestle, and cook over an open fire. Enjoy the fruits of your labour with the recipes provided for you to take back home and recreate.

Duration: 8 HRS Price from $302pp

is where 200 Buddhist and religious images dating back over 500 years are worth a visit, most of which were introduced from India. En-route make a brief stop at the Lao – Thai Friendship Bridge for a photo opportunity. You will also visit Don Noun village followed by Tha Ngone where you will enjoy a lunch cruise along the Nam Ngum River. On the way back to Vientiane a stop is made at the Dong Makhai Market with a variety of products. Enjoy a beautiful sunset along the Mekong River and Chao Anou Park.

Duration: 2days/1night Price from $519pp

Nam Ngum Lake Excursion Vientiane Cycling Retreat Vang Vieng Experience Travel north of Vientiane to That Lat Village Travel by road to Ban Tanmixay Village where Leave Vientiane behind for the night and travel where you will visit one of the village communities. Continue on to Nam Ngum Lake, a picturesque lake created by damming the Nam Ngum River. After lunch, visit Ban Keun, famous for its salt mine. Here, learn about the daily working life of the local people. Make a brief stop at Tha Ngone to taste Kao Larm – rice with coconut juice in a bamboo tube, cooked on fire. You’ll also visit the market at Dong Makhai where locals trade produce and sometimes wild animals such as snakes, birds and rodents!

you will begin your cycling adventure. Pass via the picturesque rice fields and the mountains of Phou Khao Khouay. Take a ferry ride down the river to Ban Thadindeng, a Hmong village. Explore the village before continuing to cycle in the midst of rice fields. Stop for a picnic lunch with the nearby mountain range as the backdrop. Take another ferry ride across Nam Ngum River bound for the final destination of the cycling tour - Ban Somesamai. From here, transfer back to Vientiane by vehicle.

via the scenic back roads to Vang Vieng. Discover the picturesque Tham Jang Cave, Tham Xang (Elephant Cave), Tham Hoi Cave (Snail Cave), Tham Loup (Deep Cave) and Tham Nam (Water Cave). The variety of caves all offer unique experiences from stunning views over the Nam Song River, remarkable limestone formations, numerous corridors ending at crystal clear springs to beautiful stalagmites and stalactites. Descend the Nam Song by kayak (water level dependant), offering idyllic scenes of rural life.

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Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this former ancient capital is a quaint town with crumbling FrenchIndochinese architecture, glistening temples and widespread natural beauty. Built on a peninsula formed by the Mekong and the Nam Khan River, this tiny town is the heart of this mountainous region. With a strict building code set in place by UNESCO, the city is remarkably well-preserved and has been able to retain most of its old-world charm. Having said that, as the influx of visitors has slowly increased over the years, some stretches of streets have become rather ‘touristy’. For the spiritual at heart, Luang Prabang is considered the main centre for Buddhist learning in Laos, evident by the number of orange-clad monks travelling the streets. Coinciding a stay during festive seasons certainly would enhance ones stay. Rich in culture, this city is definitely one that feels genuine with its unique ambiance.

Indigo House

Ancient Luang Prabang Inn From

Angsana Maison Souvannaphoum From

$71

$67

Located in the UNESCO World Heritage area on Sisavangovong Road (Main Street), with a sense of history, architecture and atmosphere, this hotel reflects the true energy and spirit of Luang Prabang. Recently refurbished, guest rooms provide everything you need whether you are travelling for business or leisure and have been designed to ensure maximum comfort and relaxation. Tease your taste buds with some lip smacking delicious delicacies along with a unique Vegan menu at the Indigo Café.

Centrally located right at one end of the famous night markets, the local monks also walk right past the hotel to receive their daily offerings – this provides an excellent opportunity to participate in the well-respected Alms giving ceremony or perhaps watch from a guest room. Featuring Lao styling and an open bathroom concept, the shower and basin form part of the unique room design. The quiet neighbourhood and proximity to many temples makes this hotel a great place to relax.

3 Nagas Luang Prabang – M Gallery by Sofitel

Sofitel Luang Prabang

From

$270

Once home to Laotian royalty, this hotel offers guests intimate regal style surroundings with a touch of the contemporary. Garden wing rooms feature classic colonial interiors that include French doors opening onto a balcony with a low-pillared balustrade. Interconnecting rooms are also available for the family holiday. With expansive tropical grounds, a swimming pool and spa there are plenty of private spots to relax and soak up the ambience.

From

$305

From

$151

This charming hotel is within a short walk to temples, two rivers and the night market making it the perfect place to enjoy the idyllic Lao lifestyle for leisure. Guest rooms are spread amongst three restored historical houses, blending contemporary style with traditional architecture and a courtyard garden. Feast on refined Lao cuisine in a cosy indoor bistro or alfresco courtyard or sip on an original cocktail tantalising the taste buds with local flavours such as ginger, lemongrass and chili.

*All prices are per person, twin share, based on low season including breakfast

In the heart of Luang Prabang, just five minutes drive from town, this former French governor’s residence is now an elegant and spacious all-suite hotel located within a peaceful residential area.

Blending historic charm with contemporary style, this sleek boutique hotel boasts luxury suites exquisitely furnished with garden terraces. Keeping guests connected, modern conveniences abound but never intrude the atmosphere. Pillow menus and bath time treats soothe the senses while complimentary WiFi keeps you connected to the world outside. Opt for a pool villa with a private plunge pool to relax in your own space. Discover distinctive spices and flavours of traditional Lao cuisine and savour delicious western fare at the Governor’s Grill Steakhouse Restaurant or dine al fresco under the safari tent overlooking the botanical garden. This hotel will not disappoint.

LUANG PRABANG

Luang Prabang

LUANG PRABANG SIGHTSEEING

Luang Prabang

Duration: 3 HRS Price from $129pp

Duration: 3-4 HRS Price from $98pp

Duration: 8 HRS Price from $150pp

Luang Prabang City Tour Luang Prabang Cycling Tour PakTakeOua traditional Caves wooden boat upstream to Explore the key sites of Luang Prabang. By bicycle visit Xieng Thong Temple, a symbol Begin with a visit to the Royal Palace Museum. Formerly the kingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s palace, it displays a lovely collection of personal artefacts of the royal family, photos, musical instruments and gifts received from foreigners. Next, climb over 300 steps to the summit of Mt. Phousi where stunning views of the city can be seen. Head to the Xieng Thong Temple with its mosaic decoration and the former royal carriage. End the tour with a visit to Wat Phabat Tai, a monastery complex overlooking the Mekong River.

Duration: 4 HRS Price from $123pp

of great historic importance. Characteristic of Luang Prabang style it features exquisite mosaic design and intricate carvings. Continue cycling to nearby areas Ban Phone Hueang, Ban Aphay and Ban Visun to observe the daily life of the locals. Next, ride to the Photisak Silver Shop and Minority Art Centre where a brief stop is made. Last but not least, visit Wat Phabat Tai, a monastery complex with elements of Lao, Thai and Vietnamese style.

Duration: 6 HRS Price from $174pp

visit the famous caves of Pak Ou. Located within a cliff face the two famous caves are crammed with hundreds of Buddha images that have been placed by local people dating back to the early 16th century when the caves were discovered. Stops are also made at Ban Muang Kham and at Ban Xanghai, where the people of this village mostly distil rice wine and weave. Upon returning to Luang Prabang, visit Wat Longkhoun, Wat Chomphet and Ban Xieng Men, a breath-taking village.

Duration: : 8 HRS Price from $240pp

Kwang Si Waterfall LaoStartCooking Class PakVisitOutheCaves & Kwang Si Waterfall Located south of Luang Prabang, visit Kwang the day with an early morning tour of famous Pak Ou Caves accessed Si Waterfall. The falls cascade on to calcareous bedrock which have scooped out small basins of turquoise colour. Dependent on conditions, swimming may also be possible. On the way you will have the opportunity to visit the minority villages of Ban Xing and Ban Thinkeo. After lunch, visit Ban Xang Khong and Ban Xieng Lek, for many years these villages have specialised in manufacturing and selling products made from silk and Saa paper (paper made from the bark of the mulberry tree).

Duration: 3 HRS Price from $154pp

Luang Prabangs fresh produce market. Learn about the intriguing ingredients and flavours that Lao cuisine relies on. Continue on for a hands-on cooking class experience. In a fun environment, learn to prepare and cook popular Lao dishes working with traditional mortar and pestles including open fire. Prepare four to six dishes with the cooking school accommodating to vegetarians. Recipes are provided for you to take back home.

Duration: 2days/1night Price from $316pp

by traditional wooden boat. Located on the cliff face, the caves are home to hundreds of Buddha images. En-route youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll also visit the villages of Ban Muang Kham and Ban Xanghai. Enjoy lunch served on a terrace facing the Nam U River before continuing on to visit Kwang Si Waterfall. With small basins of turquoise colour, the falls cascade down on to calcareous bedrock. Dependent on conditions, swimming may also be possible.

Duration:2days/1night Price from $580pp

Village Tour Kamu Lodge Excursion Luang Say Cruise Visit a small village outside of town. Consisting Two hours north of Luang Prabang, hidden on Discover the mighty Mekong River on a river of only 60 families, the village of Ban Suadara, mainly rely on farming activities for their survival. Cross Bamboo Bridge to reach their home town, careful not to disrupt the serenity of this isolated village. Observe the locals as they carry out their daily tasks, taking note that foreigners still remain a novelty. The charming villagers are as curious about its observers as you are about them. A short stop is also made at Wat Phon Phao showcasing traditional Buddhist scenes through paintings.

the banks of the Mekong River, Kamu Lodge is nestled in the heart of Lao countryside. Travel upstream on this overnight package featuring a boat cruise on the Mekong River with a stop at Pak Ou Caves, interesting cultural activities and one night in a super-sized tent attached with modern bathroom amenities and facilities. This private eco-lodge offers a rustic retreat and encounter which urbanites have often not seen. This truly is a unique experience.

boat travelling from Luang Prabang to Huay Xai. Offering a unique cultural journey, understand more about life and nature along the legendary river. As part of the two-day cruise, spend the night at Luang Say Lodge and experience a fiery sunset from your teak and rosewood bungalow along the river. Untouched by the modern world, this historic region is rich and colourful. Note: It is possible to continue your journey to Chiang Rai, Thailand on the same day.

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laos tours

Laos

Highlights of Laos

Offering a contrasting view of Lao’s two major cities, Luang Prabang and Vientiane, discover past royal traditions and ancient temples.

5days From

$1129

Laos Overland Tour

Explore the main cities along with Vang Vieng and its karst hill landscapes, and the mysterious area of Xieng Khuang - the Plain of Jars.

7days From

$1695

8days

Journey Through Laos

Travel by boat along the Mekong River visiting villages and sights along the way before exploring Luang Prabang and the capital Vientiane.

From

$1690

Day 1: Luang Prabang

Day 1: Vientiane

Day 1: Chiang Rai - Houei Xay

Arrive in Luang Prabang and transfer to your hotel. After, set out to explore this peaceful city with little traffic and orange robed monks walking the streets. Visit the former royal palace, now a national museum and Mt. Phousi with panoramic views over the city. End the day with a visit to Xieng Thong Temple followed by sunset at Wat Phabat Tai Monastery.

Arrive in Vientiane and transfer to your hotel. In the afternoon enjoy a city tour visiting the main sites finishing with sunset at Chao Anou Park located along the beautiful Mekong River.

Depart from Chiang Rai (Thailand) and drive to Chiang Khong before crossing the Mekong River and entering Laos at the small township of Houei Xay.

Day 2: Luang Prabang (B, L)

This morning visit a riverside village where rice wine is produced before taking a boat trip on the mighty Mekong River to visit Pak Ou Caves. Thousands of gold lacquered Buddha statues are crammed into the two caves carved out of the towering limestone cliff. In the afternoon, visit the Kwang Si Waterfall for a short trek around the falls or enjoy a swim. Day 3: Luang Prabang (B, D)

Spend the day at leisure and enjoy the atmosphere of this magnificent town, its temples and markets. This evening, embark on the Nava Mekong Cruise. Moor near a traditional village where traditional Lao dancers perform age-old sets. Enjoy the history and unique theatrical dining experience on board. Day 4: Luang Prabang - Vientiane (B)

This morning a unique opportunity abounds with an optional Alms offering to the local monks. After breakfast, transfer to Luang Prabang Airport for a flight to Vientiane. Transfer to your hotel before commencing a city sightseeing tour. Visit That Luang Stupa, Pratuxai, Thong Khan Kham Market amd the COPE Visitor Centre. Day 5: Vientiane (B)

Today, transfer to Vientiane Airport where tour arrangements end.

Day 2: Vientiane - Vang Vieng (B)

Day 2: Houei Xay - Pakbeng (B, L)

This morning, drive through to Vang Vieng stopping at Km52 Hmong Village before proceeding to Ban Tha Heu – a fisherman’s village. On arrival in Vang Vieng take in the scenery and spend the rest of the day at leisure.

Travel by a traditional slow boat down the Mekong River to Pakbeng. In Northern Laos, the Mekong River shows a pathway full of splendid landscapes and a succession of mountains covered by lush vegetation with villages along the banks.

Day 3: Vang Vieng - Xieng Khuang (B)

Day 3: Pakbeng - Luang Prabang (B, L)

Today drive to Xieng Khuang. Make pit stops at Phu Khoune and Tham Pha (Buddha Cave) and witness beautiful scenery as you pass many panoramic lookouts on the winding mountain roads.

Today, continue by boat downstream towards Luang Prabang. A stop is made at Pak Ou Caves. Late afternoon, arrive in Luang Prabang.

Day 4: Xieng Khuang (B)

Visit the Plain of Jars this morning. A distinctive and enigmatic attraction for Laos, shrouded in mystery, giant stone jars are scattered in the Xieng Khuang plateau. After exploring this area, visit a Mulberry farm which specialises in the production of naturally dyed handmade Lao silk, and the Xieng Khuang UXO Centre.

Day 4: Luang Prabang (B)

For those who wish, an early start this morning and you can be involved in an Alms offering to the local monks. After breakfast, travel to Kwang Si Waterfall with brief stops enroute at the villages of Ban Xang Khong and Ban Xieng Lek. Day 5: Luang Prabang (B)

Spend the day at leisure. Day 6: Luang Prabang - Vientiane (B)

Today admire the beautiful scenery as you drive near seven hours on to Luang Prabang. Scenic stops on the drive include Kiaw Kamporm, Huay Hien, Nam Ming Bridge and Kiaw Mouang.

This morning, transfer to Luang Prabang Airport a flight to Vientiane. Transfer to your hotel stopping on the way for sightseeing at That Luang Stupa, Pratuxai, Phon Thong Savang Market and the COPE Visitor Centre.

Day 6: Luang Prabang (B)

Day 7: Vientiane (B, L, D)

Early morning, participate in an Alms offering to the local monks - the monks from the town will gather to collect your offerings. After breakfast, travel by wooden boat upstream to see the Pak Ou Caves. In the afternoon enjoy a city tour with the evening spent at leisure.

This morning travel to Buddha Park where 200 Buddhist and religious images are displayed. Continue on to Nam Ngum River for a private lunch cruise. Returning to Vientiane, make a short stop at Dong Mak Khai Market. Tonight, end your visit to Laos with a traditional Lao dinner and show.

Day 5: Xieng Khuang - Luang Prabang (B)

Day 7: Luang Prabang (B)

This morning further explore Luang Prabang before transferring to Luang Prabang Airport where tour arrangements end.

*All prices are per person, twin share, based on low season including breakfast

Day 8: Vientiane Departure (B)

Today, transfer to Vientiane Airport where tour arrangements end. Note: This package begins from Chiang Rai in Thailand. A guide will meet you in Chiang Rai and will cross the border into Laos with you.

Myanmar For years, the former Burma has offered mystery behind its closed doors, however as the country awakens to visitors it has showcased an extraordinary land, scattered with glistening pagodas, where traditions from time past still appear. From the vast plains, along the meandering rivers to the colonial touched cities filled with a mix of the past and the new, voices of historic travellers before you bring an enticing world just begging to be discovered. Yangon is a convenient starting point from which to reach anywhere in the country. Bagan should undoubtedly be on the itinerary of every traveller to Myanmar and with good reason the stupa dotted plains are the most well-known and popular image of Myanmar. Inle Lake offers both stunning scenery and tradition while in Mandalay, it’s easy to escape the main streets, instead discovering areas full of Myitkyina craft workshops and treeshaded monasteries. A great way to experience this vast country is on-board one of the delightful river cruises ranging from a few days to a few weeks and the emerging beach destination of Ngapali offers a real combination holiday.

Chindwin River

Ayeyawady River

Hakha Mandalay

MYANMAR Inle Lake Naypyidaw Ngapali Ayeyawady Beach River Bago Yangoon

Myanmar is like no other place on earth enhanced by the funloving hospitable people. Renowned as “The Golden Land”, it is a must-see country for anyone who wants to see a different side of Asia.

Yangon is a sprawling and lovely old city, known for its “dilapidated grandeur” and brimming with colourful sidewalk markets. Appreciate the city’s stunning lakes and shady parks whilst the town centre and its wide city streets are lined with a great variety of beautiful old growth trees. A buzz with teashops, street vendors and trishaws, the city also has a great range of museums and art galleries – balancing tradition, culture and modernity. The wonderful array of colonial era buildings reflect the city’s history of ethnic and religious diversity. Above it all though towers the majestic Shwedagon Pagoda, truly one of Asia’s largest and most beautiful pagoda complexes and arguably one of the most impressive and inspiring structures ever created. Yangon is a beautiful city which deserves at least a few days exploration.

Clover Hotel

Best Western Green Hill From

Chatrium Hotel Royal Lake From

$69

$121

This simple hotel is the ideal place to enjoy a relaxed stay in Yangon. From here, you can conveniently visit attractions such as Kandawgyi Lake, Inya Lake and Ngar Htet Gyi Pagoda. Guest rooms offer a comfortable sleep whilst The Clover Restaurant on the seventh floor offers a variety of cuisine and panoramic views of the stunning Shwedagon Pagoda. For those who are looking for a simple hotel within a friendly budget then look no further, this hotel is for you.

Nestled in the idyllic surroundings of Pho Sein Road, this hotel is found in a serene location away from the hustle and bustle of the city yet still conveniently a short distance from the downtown area and city’s landmarks, including Kandawgyi Lake and Garden, Bo Gyoke Park and Shwedagon Pagoda. Guest rooms feature traditional furnishings that exude character which are complemented by various amenities including complimentary WiFi. Many rooms also offer spectacular views of the Shwedagon Pagoda.

Sedona Hotel

Sule Shangri-La From

$133

Located within a 20-minute drive from the airport and the bustling city centre, this hotel sits on eight acres of beautifully landscaped grounds. Recently refurbished guest rooms feature local ethnic décor and modern amenities. There are a good range of dining options available including Mediterranean fare at Orzo, Oriental cuisine at Du Fu and an international menu at Brasserie. After a day of exploring, take a refreshing dip in the large freeform swimming pool or opt for a rejuvenating massage.

*All prices are per person, twin share, based on low season including breakfast

From

$181

With Kandawgyi Lake right on the doorstep, exploring Yangon’s beautiful surroundings are simply a few steps away with a stay at this beautiful hotel. Guest rooms offer space to rest and relax in abundance, including private balconies, sleep enticing beds and luxurious bathrooms, whilst complimentary WiFi lets you keep in touch with personal and business needs. Take a dip in the beach-styled swimming pool surrounded by coconut trees and sun soaked pool loungers or discover pampered perfection at Nemita Spa.

From

$181

Nestled amidst the city’s most popular cultural and shopping precincts, and surrounded by lush tropical greenery and beautiful lakes, this hotel is the perfect base.

Expansive guest rooms and suites are characterised by elegant contemporary decor and executive-style furnishings. Rooms come with a full array of amenities and facilities, spacious bathrooms and feature outstanding views of either the city, the pagoda or the river. Start your day with a swim in the outdoor pool or at the fully-equipped Fitness and Recreation Centre. For breakfast, enjoy a buffet of authentic Burmese and international dishes at Café Sule. With a number of dining options available, choose from The Gallery Bar offering a cosy pub atmosphere, the Peacock Lounge and Gourmet Shop or the Summer Palace serving authentic Cantonese cuisine.

YANGON

YANGON SIGHTSEEING

YANGON

Duration: 7 HRS Price from $143pp

Duration: 10 HRS Price from $178pp

Duration: 10 HRS Price from $213pp

Yangon City Tour Explore Yangon Experience Bago Offering a great snapshot, gain an insight into Visit the beautiful Kandawgyi Lake, followed by Escape Yangon and explore Bago – a preYangon. Begin with a scenic photo stop at the beautiful Kandawgyi Lake, one of two major lakes in Yangon and surrounded by parkland. Stop at the colossal 65 metre long reclining Buddha Chaukhtatkyi - topped by a crown encrusted with diamonds and other precious stones. Explore the decaying colonial buildings in downtown Yangon followed by a visit to the awe-inspiring Shwedagon Pagoda. The gilded stupa raises 99 metres into the sky and is the most sacred Buddhist pagoda in Myanmar.

Duration: 2.5 HRS Price from $88pp

Botataung Pagoda, which is hollow allowing you to walk through its winding golden passageways. From here stroll through downtown Yangon with its large colonial buildings. Continue on to the bustling and colourful Wahdan Jetty. Visit the reclining Buddha Chaukhtatkyi and the National Museum. Take a look through Chinatown before heading to the famous Scot Market, a sprawling complex built in 1926. Finish the day with a visit to the awe-inspiring Shwedagon Pagoda.

Duration: 3-4 HRS Price from $132pp

eminent city for centuries with a rich history. On the drive to Bago visit the beautifully landscaped Taukkyan War Cemetery, which commemorates 27,000 allied soldiers who died in World War II along with local pottery making cottages. Standing taller than Shwedagon Pagoda, visit Shwemawdaw Pagoda along with Shwetelyaung, the most life-like of all reclining Buddha’s. On the return to Yangon visit Kyaik Pun Paya with four 30 metre high Buddha’s sitting back to back.

Duration:2days/1night Price from $649pp

Heritage Walking Tour Yangon Circular Train Golden Rock Excursion Enjoy a walking tour of Yangon visiting historical This unique tour will immerse you into the Escape Yangon for an overnight excursion to sites along the way. Begin with the Yangon City Hall followed by Maha Bandoola Garden. The park is surrounded by the most majestic buildings of the city – the Sule Pagoda, City Hall and the High Court. Continue on to the Ministers Office where General Aung San was assassinated in 1947. No longer a political office, it is now in use to teach about the political history of Myanmar. Next stroll to Theim Phyu Market and Bogyoke Market, initially called Scott’s Market – one of the largest bazaars in Yangon.

everyday life of Myanmar’s largest city. Board the local circular train which runs from Yangon’s main railway station in a circle around various neighbourhoods. The slow travelling train gives you a rare opportunity to observe the lively and colourful life of the rural Burmese people. Disembark in the township of Insein where one of the city’s best fresh produce markets is found. Transfer back to the city by car and take a short walking tour through Chinatown and Little India.

the famed Kyaikhtiyo Pagoda also known as the Golden Rock. Golden Rock is a large boulder, which appears delicately balanced, supposedly by the assistance of a well-placed hair of the Buddha, on the edge of a cliff near the top of a mountain. It is one of the most revered Buddhist shrines. Enjoy Golden Rock sightseeing which includes spectacular mountain views and pilgrims at the Golden Rock. You will also stop in Bago, visiting the main sites along with the bustling Bago Market.

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Situated near 900 metres above sea level and surrounded by blue and hazy mountain ranges, Inle Lake is often referred to as the ‘Venice of the East’ when going through the canals and stilted villages by boat. Heho, a small town in Kalaw Township is the primary air gateway to this serene lake area. Offering an idyllic setting, the lake is 22km in length and 10km in the widest place. The shallow waters are home to the Intha people, renowned for their floating gardens and the unique one-legged rowing style of their fishermen using traditional conical nets. Life on the lake is captivating and a complete contrast to the Western world. You’ll find a number of hotels on the lake to choose from with their traditional and distinctive Inle architecture. Most travellers often skip Inle Lake bound for Bagan but a stay here will no doubt leave you with a lasting impression.

Amata Garden Resort

Villa Inle Resort & Spa From

$121

With unbroken views of the tranquil yet soothing backwaters and the emerald green Shan Hills, this resort sits on the eastern bank of Inle Lake at Ingyin Gone Village. The only three storey resort in the area, guest rooms are designed for comfort and convenience in mind. Set in the middle of the resort with a delightful Inle Lake view, the Sunset Bar enjoys an outdoor setting. Lotus Wellness & Spa offers treatments that use natural indigenous products sourced exclusively from Myanmar herbs, salt and pure essential oils.

Duration: 8 HRS Price from $198pp

Magical Inle Lake Travel by boat on the

lake, visiting the famous Paung Daw Oo Pagoda and the nearby Inpawkhone Village where, in stilt houses, traditional silk weaving with hand looms and the processing of lotus blossoms are made into beautiful fabric. Visit traditional craftsman such as cheroot (local cigar) rolling and boat making. Enjoy a boat ride through the Kaylar Village observing the many houses on stilts. See the floating gardens up close, then head to the Ngaphae Chaung Monastery, an interesting old traditional monastery.

Inle Princess Resort From

$158

Admire the beauty of Inle Lake with a stay at this resort spread over more than 20 acres on the eastern fringe of the lake. Bungalows at the resort are designed to harmoniously blend in with the natural environment featuring hand-selected local paintings, high wooden ceilings and spacious living areas. Watch fishermen glide by on the lake, water buffaloes cooling themselves off and migratory and native birds picking food in the wet land. Enhancing the experience is a spa, swimming pool and pool bar.

Duration: 8 HRS Price from $215pp

From

$279

Sheltered in a peaceful inlet on the eastern shore, this resort is a hidden refuge in this longsecluded region. Nestled into the surrounding nature, your stay is in a sustainably-sourced traditional pyinkado, teak and bamboo-thatched house. Inside are playful accents of Inthar fabrics, bespoke furnishings, Shan paper lamps with select rooms offering crackling clay fires for the cooler months and leafy verandahs. Unwind with modern comforts alongside culture and tradition, including a swimming pool and serene spa.

Duration: 4 HRS Price from $264pp

Indein Boat Excursion Shan Cooking Class Visit Indein and its enchanting 17th century With a local chef visit the morning Inle Lake pagodas. To reach Indain and the nearby village, enjoy a boat ride up a small scenic creek that runs into Inle Lake, passing villages and water buffalo bathing in the creek. A few Indein pagodas are being restored but most of them still lie in an abandoned ‘Indiana Jones’ type setting. After lunch, take cruise to Ywama Village to see Shan traditional paper making and silversmith craftsmen at work. Continue to Laeshae Village to see how they make Buddha images from dried flowers.

*All prices are per person, twin share, based on low season including breakfast

markets and learn about the local produce from which items will be purchased and taken back to the kitchen. Under the guidance from the chef, prepare a typical style Shan lunch. Take pleasure in the fruits of your labour afterwards as you sit down to enjoy your Shan culinary repast. An aperitif is offered to help things along. This cooking class offers a great experience and an introduction into the Myanmar cuisine, whilst teaching you the basics of Shan cooking.

INLE LAKE

BAGAN

Truly one of the world’s premier legacy wonders, the thousands of temples that span near 67 square miles across the plains of Bagan are the most impressive testament to the religious devotion of Myanmar’s people and rulers over the centuries. Combined they form one of the richest archaeological sites in Asia and provide views quite unlike anywhere else. Of the original 10,000 pagodas, more than 2,000 remain standing today, some small, graceful and others soaring toward the sky. Each one has its own unique story to tell with many able to be freely explored inside and out. Outside of the Bagan Archaeological Zone, Nyaung U is the atmospheric village – it has charm, some colonial architecture and a market with a hive of activity. However, if you want to be in the thick of the temples, Old Bagan is the place to be – it sits within what remains of the city walls.

The Amazing Bagan Resort

Thazin Garden Hotel From

The Hotel @ Tharabar Gate From

$103

$115

Located just five minutes away from central Bagan and next to a magnificent 18-hole golf course, this resort is set in a well-manicured setting. With views over the swimming pool, deluxe rooms offer comfort and have subtle cultural touches. Upgrade to a suite bungalow, built from brick, the rooms are designed in traditional Burmese architecture. Enjoy a round of golf, relax at Spa Thukha, opt for a drink at the Sunset Terrace, make use of the complimentary WiFi, or jump on one of the resort’s bicycles and take a leisurely ride around.

Due to the elevated position of this hotel, situated on a high plain, enjoy the natural scenes of hilly ridges, green plains and the golden pagodas. Boasting a traditional design, guest rooms are set amid a spacious garden area with dainty coconut trees adding a charming addition to the area. After a day of exploring, relax and enjoy the fresh air lazing by the swimming pool or head to the beauty parlour for a traditional Myanmar body massage to ease any aches and pains. The billiards table also provides ample competitive fun.

Aureum Palace Hotel & Resort

Bagan Lodge

From

$218

Offering a relaxing tropical garden setting, this hotel is spread across 27 acres surrounded by beautiful pagodas. The towering teak-pillared grand lobby and the restaurant lend regal splendour to the complex of guest rooms which are well appointed and feature antique artefacts and local art throughout. Stay connected with loved ones back home with complimentary WiFi, take a refreshing dip in the swimming pool, enjoy a treatment at The Nature Spa or head to Xanadu Restaurant boasting stunning pagoda views.

From

$193

Within five minutes walking distance to the spectacular Ananda Pagoda known as The Jewel of Bagan, this hotel has an ideal location. Guest rooms are decorated with teak floors and typical Burmese furniture and feature high ceilings. Interconnecting rooms are also available making it a great option for families or friends travelling together. The hotel offers two dining choices – one in the tropical garden and the other in a semi-open setting around the swimming pool which is complemented by a pool side bar to relax with a cool cocktail or drink of choice.

From

$121

Offering a fusion of classic Burmese design and contemporary decor, this lodge is found in New Bagan and a five-minute drive from Lawka Nandar Pagoda and Damayarzaka Pagoda.

The magnificence and authenticity of Bagan combined with Bagan Lodge’s friendly and personalised service provides a stunning canvas on which to create wonderful memories. Guest rooms and suites offer upscale sanctuaries each with a private verandah and high-quality amenities. Enhancing the stay the resort offers - eight treatment rooms providing an extensive range of massage and beauty treatments; the lap loggy pool, the lap suite pool and the Jacuzzi offer a great place to exercise, relax or simply cool-off; and a fitness centre equipped with state-of-the-art equipment. Tiffin Box, the resort’s open-air restaurant serves authentic Myanmar cuisine whilst The Lobby Lounge Bar offers comforting afternoon beverages.

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BAGAN SIGHTSEEING

BAGAN

Duration: 10 HRS Price from $165pp

Explore Bagan Experience one

of Asia’s most popular archaeological destinations - Bagan’s distinctive pagodas. Key pagodas include Shwezigon, a prototype of later Myanmar stupas; Wetkyi-inGubyaukgyi, a 13th century cave temple; and Ananda, one of the finest and largest pagodas in Old Bagan. Next visit Ananda Ok Kyaung, a surviving brick monastery and Htilominlo Pagoda, known to be the last Myanmar style pagoda built in Bagan. Afternoon pagoda sites include Sulamani, Dhamamayangyi and Thatbyinnyu. As the sun sets, enjoy a panoramic view over the temples.

Duration: 10 HRS Price from $569pp

Duration: 3 HRS Price from $548pp

Duration: 8 HRS Price from $187pp

HotEnjoyAira first-class Balloonflight Flight Mt.TakePopa Excursion over the awe-inspiring a leisurely drive through the Bagan pagodas and stupas of Bagan. With seasonal daily scheduled flights experience a 45 minute to one hour flight, depending on the wind speed on the day. Using 12 or 8 passenger balloons in Bagan, you will be collected from your hotel and transported to the launch field where a light breakfast will be served. You will have the opportunity to watch the balloons being prepared and inflated, followed by a spectacular balloon flight with sparkling wine and a fruit reception after landing.

Duration: 1.5 HRS Price from $209pp

countryside to Mt. Popa, which rose from the ground in a massive earthquake in 442BC. Mt. Popa is famous as the abode of the Nats (Spirit Gods) and for its fantastic panoramic views. There is a volcanic plug with a temple on top which is accessible by a 777 step climb. Enroute to Mt. Popa visit a local toddy palm farmer at his hut and see how he collects the toddy palm from the palm trees to make the strong alcoholic toddy palm drink and also the toddy palm sugar candy.

Duration: 1-1.5 HRS Price from $264pp

Salay & Mt Popa Horse Cart Sunset Ride Sunset Boat Cruise Drive through the countryside to the small By horse cart, visit the most significant pagodas Offering a different perspective from the town of Salay, an important centre of Buddhism in Myanmar with many active monasteries. While visiting Salay you will learn more about monastic life, Burmese Buddhism and its unique architectural style as you visit several sights. From Salay head east toward Mt. Popa stopping en-route to visit a toddy palm farmer who makes the alcoholic toddy palm drink. Arriving at Mt. Popa be greeted by jaw-dropping setting. Atop of the mountain is a temple reached by a 777 step climb.

and temples of Bagan including Shwezigon Pagoda – built by King Anawrahta in the early 11th century. Continue on to Thatbyinnyu Temple, the tallest of the Bagan monuments at 61 metres high. Next, it’s on to Anada Temples – King Kyansittha’s masterpiece and the crowning achievement of the early style temple of architecture. Lastly view an amazing sunset (weather dependent) on the top of Shwe San Taw Pagoda. It’s a great place to take advantage of the view over the surrounding temples.

*All prices are per person, twin share, based on low season including breakfast

usual Bagan sightseeing, enjoy a sunset cruise aboard a private wooden river boat. Sitting under the shade or on the open-deck, you’ll be treated to fabulous views as you cruise down the Ayeyarwady River to Shwezigon Pagoda. Pass by small villages on the river banks, fishermen, local boats and of course many riverside temples. The views of Bagan are spectacular. On board, a cocktail will be served, so relax and enjoy the scenery. As the sun begins to dip low in the sky, return to dry land.

MANDALAY

Situated on the banks of the legendary Ayeyarwady River, Mandalay, the last royal capital of the Burmese Kingdom, is today a bustling city. Neighbouring the mountain regions of the Shan and Kachin people, the city acts as a gateway to Northern Myanmar. The city itself is home to many different forms of crafts as well as the world’s largest book found at the Kuthodaw Pagoda. With its streets based on a grid system, getting around downtown Mandalay and its markets, restaurants and temples can be easily done on foot however if you’re looking to go a little further you’ll need to get a taxi. Day trips to the surrounding ancient royal capitals of Ava, Amarapura, Mingun and Sagaing, make this one of Myanmar’s most historical and culturally rich regions. Rudyard Kipling wrote of ‘Mandalay’ in his evocative poem – a city whose charms are yet still to be discovered by many.

Mandalay City Hotel

Mandalay Hill Resort Hotel From

$73

Located in the heart of Mandalay, the landscape and pathways at this hotel are uniquely designed to give an oasis feeling. Offering the right mix of convenience, comfort and functionality, guest rooms include tea and coffee facilities along with satellite TV and complimentary WiFi. The hotel swimming pool makes for a great place to relax and escape the heat whilst the hotel bar is a retreat to unwind over a refreshing beverage.

Duration: 10 HRS Price from $147pp

Sedona Hotel Mandalay From

$206

Ideally located from which to explore the city, this resort lies at the foot of Mandalay Hill. After a day of exploration, spacious guest rooms offer a haven of rest and relaxation, with some rooms boasting great views over Mandalay Hill with all its pagodas glistening through the green canopy. Take advantage of the complimentary WiFi to catch up with loved ones back home whilst you laze around in the lovely pool area or head to Kipling’s Lounge serving tapas and classic beverages.

Duration: 10 HRS Price from $209pp

From

$169

Nestled on four acres of landscaped gardens, this hotel is ideally located in the heart of the city close to many local restaurants, the Mandalay Palace and Mandalay Hill. Comfortable suites and guest rooms are well-appointed and include general amenities. Upgrade to the Club Floor to gain exclusive Executive Club Lounge access and benefits. Whether it is a leisurely swim, an adrenaline-pumping game of tennis, or a pampering spa session there’s more than enough to keep you occupied with stay at this hotel.

Duration: 10 HRS Price from $213pp

Mandalay and Amarapura Tour Mandalay & Mingun Tour Ancient Royal Capitals Head to the ancient royal capital of Amarapura, Transfer to the Mandalay Jetty and board a Board a local ferry and journey to the ancient here you will visit Mahagandayon Monastery, a school for young monks, and then the nearby U Bein Bridge. More than two centuries old and at 1.2 kilometres, the bridge is the longest teakwood span in the world. Return to Mandalay to visit the highly revered Mahamuni Pagoda; a gold leaf hammering craftshop, Shwenandaw Monastery, noted for its exquisite wood carvings and Kuthodaw Pagoda, renowned as the world’s largest book for its 729 stone slabs containing the entire Buddhist scriptures.

private boat for a short and pleasant ride up the Ayeyarwady River to the ruins of the Mingun Pagoda. The mammoth base of this unfinished pagoda is a very impressive sight as you approach from the river. Nearby, visit the Mingun Bell, moved from the pagoda and now hung in a new shrine building. It is said to be the largest hanging un-cracked bell in the world. Return by boat to Mandalay and visit Mahamuni Pagoda, a gold leaf hammering craftshop, Shwenandaw Monastery and Kuthodaw Pagoda.

imperial capital of Ava (Inwa). Explore by horse and cart-visit the Nanmyint Watch Tower, a 27-metre-high masonry tower, followed by the brick and stucco Maha Aungmye Bonzan Monastery. Continue on to Bagayar Monastery, famous for its impressive ornate woodcarvings and teak posts. Next head to Sagaing – visit Sagaing Hill to enjoy magnificent views of the surrounding area followed by a visit to the nearby Kaung Hmu Daw Pagoda. End the day at Amarapura to enjoy the sunset at U Bein Bridge.

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Featuring an idyllic stretch of white sand and palm tree lined coast, Ngapali Beach is considered Myanmar’s premier beach destination. Located on the Bay of Bengal coast in the Rakhine State, there are a number of resorts that are spread out next to traditional fishing villages. All about the relaxation, there is choice of water sport activities along with an 18-hole golf course nearby. If you fancy some time away from the beach, the town of Thandwe offers a number of pagodas and a bustling market or take to the skies with a hot air balloon flight, offering views of the surrounding coastline. Enjoy the array of fresh seafood with most hotels offering beachfront restaurants which are open to everyone. Ngapali Beach makes for a great last stop to any adventurous Myanmar itinerary. Note, during low season, most hotels shut from May to October, although there are a small number open throughout the year. Please enquire about dates.

Pleasant View Resort Hotel

Amata Resort & Spa From

From

$121

$109

Nestled between the Rakhine Yoma Hills and the Bay of Bengal, this intimate resort offers spectacular views of Ngapali Beach and breathtaking sunsets from its southern location on the beach. Within this enclave, guest rooms offer comfort and cater to the holiday needs of all. Great for families, the family deluxe bungalow offers two bedrooms connected to each other promising rest and privacy for the parents and space for the kids. Each bedroom comes with their own beach front sea view terrace deck. Relax in the private beach area or catch up on the latest news with complimentary WiFi offered in the resort’s public areas.

Stretching along the beautiful shoreline of Ngapali Beach, this resort is located near the delightful Mya Pyin Village. Covering more than five acres of tropical wonderland the resort is flanked by a 400 metre seaside boardwalk. Guest rooms are designed using teak, bamboo and cane presenting an Asian style living space. Upgrade to a cabana cottage offering seclusion and privacy in the thick of the lush tropical landscaped gardens. Kayaking and snorkelling activities are available through the resort or for the golfing enthusiasts, a 9-hole golf course is only a 10-minute drive away.

Aureum Resort & Spa

Ngapali Bay Villas & Spa From

From

$230

An idyllic and complete beachfront resort, embrace the picturesque western facing sunsets along the magnificent white stretches of sand beach with a stay here. Amid the relaxing resort atmosphere choose between a garden view cottage, a short stroll to the beach or an ocean view cottage offering uninterrupted views over the Bay of Bengal. Relax by the swimming pool, hire a bicycle for the day, book yourself in for a cooking lesson or head to Ye’Hlay Bar and enjoy the fresh ocean breeze as you sip back on a specially prepared drink by the resident bartenders who know exactly the right temperature and ratio to keep you relaxed.

$164

Located on the beautiful stretch of beach in Mya Pyin Village this resort makes for a great stay. All villas are designed with varying directions and distance from the beach but each with a view of the ocean. A distinctive design of the villas draws on an ideal infusion of elegance and style. Treat yourself to a stay in a seaview villa with a plunge pool – situated directly on the beach they have their own private deck and overlook the white sandy beach. For a unique dining option, opt for an intimate barefoot barbeque experience on the beach, you choose the time and place, and the chef will personalise your barbeque to suit the catch of the day and your palate.

*All prices are per person, twin share, based on low season including breakfast

NGAPALI BEACH

Ngapali Beach

MYANMAR TOURS

Myanmar

Shan Experience

Enjoy a scenic and fascinating experience in the Shan State with the archaeological wonders of Bagan included.

7days From

$3000

Essential Myanmar

Enjoy a varied and rewarding Myanmar experience, visiting the main historical destinations and a full day boat ride down the fabled Ayeyarwady River.

9days From

$3652

Best of Myanmar

Capturing the best of Myanmar, cover all the main areas along with a two night Paukan Cruise and time at leisure at Ngapali Beach for some relaxation.

15days From

$5180

Day 1: Yangon

Arrive at Yangon Airport and transfer to your hotel. Later, enjoy a city tour including the colourful downtown, Chaukhtatkyi, and the Shwedagon Pagoda, one of the world’s most impressive golden stupas.

Arrive at Yangon Airport and transfer to your hotel. Later you will experience a Yangon city tour covering all the main sites.

Arrive at Yangon Airport and transfer to your hotel. Enjoy a Yangon city tour.

Day 2: Yangon – Bagan (B)

Transfer to Yangon Airport for a flight to Bagan. Highlights of your visit to Bagan include many of the distinctive pagodas and a visit to a local village. At sunset enjoy a magical and panoramic view of the pagodas. Day 3: Bagan – Heho – Pindaya (B)

Day 2: Yangon – Mandalay (B)

Transfer to Yangon Airport for a flight to Mandalay. Enjoy a visit to Amarapura and see U Bein Bridge. Then visit Inwa and travel by pony cart down tree-lined paths to see old palace walls, wooden monasteries, and the ‘leaning tower of Ava’. Day 3: Mandalay (B)

Transfer to Bagan Airport for a flight to Heho. Drive to Pindaya and visit the fascinating Pindaya Caves with more than 8,000 Buddha images. You will also see the interesting process of Shan umbrella making.

Today’s highlights include gold leaf hammering, Mahamuni Pagoda, Shwenandaw Monastery and Kuthodaw Pagoda, renowned as the world’s largest book for its stone slabs of the entire Buddhist scriptures. End the day with a sunset view from Mandalay Hill.

Day 4: Pindaya - Inle Lake (B)

Day 4: Mandalay - Bagan (B)

Early morning, drive to Inle Lake with sightseeing by long tailed boat on this magical and unique shallow lake.

Early morning, depart Mandalay to Bagan by a modern ferryboat service - a pleasant way to spend the day as you travel down the fabled Ayeyarwady River.

Day 5: Inle Lake (B)

Continue Inle Lake sightseeing today with a memorable visit to Indein Village with its idyllic 16th century pagodas. There is also the opportunity to visit a local silk weaving factory, which sits on stilts on the lake. Day 6: Inle Lake - Yangon (B)

Transfer to Heho Airport for a flight to Yangon. In the afternoon visit the Botahtaung Pagoda on the Yangon River and then a chance for a last shopping spree at the sprawling 79 year old Bogyoke (Scott) Market, filled with a large collection of local handicrafts and other items. Day 7: Yangon (B)

Today, transfer to Yangon Airport where tour arrangements end.

Day 5: Bagan (B)

Today sightsee at one of Asia’s premier archaeological sites. Day 6: Bagan - Inle Lake (B)

Transfer to Bagan Airport for a flight to Heho from which you will travel to Inle Lake. Begin sightseeing of this unique area by long tailed boat. Day 7: Inle Lake (B)

Continue Inle Lake sightseeing today with a memorable visit to Indain Village. Day 8: Inle Lake - Yangon (B)

Transfer to Heho Airport for a flight to Yangon. In the afternoon visit Botahtaung Pagoda and the famous Scott Market. Day 9: Yangon (B)

Today, transfer to Yangon Airport where tour arrangements end.

Day 2: Yangon (B)

Spend the day at your leisure to explore. Day 3: Yangon - Mandalay (B)

Transfer to Yangon Airport for a flight to Mandalay. Visit Amarapura followed by a visit to a silversmith and gold leaf making workshop. Day 4: Inwa and Sagaing (B)

See the ruins of old palaces and monasteries in Inwa. Continue on to Sagaing Hill - formerly a royal capital of the Shan Kingdom. Day 5-6: RV Paukan Cruise (B)

On Day 5, embark on a two-night Paukan Cruise bound for Bagan on the Ayeyarwady River. This elegantly restored river steamer will make visits to local villages along the way. Day 7: Bagan (B)

Disembark in Bagan and discover some of the many pagodas followed by a pony cart ride. Day 8: Bagan (B)

Spend the day at leisure or opt to add on a magical hot air balloon flight (additional cost). Day 9-10: Bagan - Inle Lake (B)

On Day 9, transfer to Bagan Airport for a flight to Heho. Drive to Inle Lake where you will enjoy sightseeing on the lake both days. Day 11-13: Inle Lake - Ngapali Beach (B)

On Day 11, transfer to Heho Airport for a flight to Thandwe. Drive to Ngapali Beach and spend the next three nights at leisure. Day 14: Ngapali Beach – Yangon (B)

Transfer to Thandwe Airport for a flight to Yangon where the rest of the day is at leisure. Day 15: Yangon (B)

Today, transfer to Yangon Airport where tour arrangements end.

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TERMS & CONDITIONS

Quoted prices are in New Zealand dollars and are subject to change until full payment has been received. Active Asia utilises local suppliers for all travel arrangements.

Active Asia acts as a sales agent for overseas suppliers. Any reservations with Active Asia constitute acceptance of all terms and conditions of these suppliers. Active Asia applies the same terms and conditions. The Contract

We at Active Asia undertake to perform all services with reasonable care and skill. We act only as a booking agent for all hotels, tours and services. We will not be liable for any loss or damage, which results from taking part in these services. We have exercised all care to ensure the information is correct, accurate and up to date. We cannot be held responsible for loss, damage or disruptions outside our control. All hotels have been researched and are recommended at the time of travel, but conditions can change. All persons (hereafter called the client) will be bound by the conditions, which follow. (Active Asia hereafter called AA) Responsibility

All services are organised by AA. Notice is hereby given that all arrangements are made on behalf of clients on the sole condition that the organizers shall not be held responsible for any injury, death, accident, delay, loss, damage or irregularity. AA acts as an agent for transport companies, hotels and other contractors and shall not be held liable for any injury, damage, loss, delay or irregularity that may occur, including, but not limited to, any defect in vehicle or any other form of transport conveying a traveller, acts of God, weather disruptions, detention, delays or expenses arising from quarantine, strike, theft, civil disturbance, government restriction, strikes, riots or epidemics or regulation. Or for any accident by aircraft, boat, bicycle, motor vehicle or any other form of transport or in any hotel or guest house, pension, or other form of accommodation.

Payment

A non-refundable deposit of $250 pp is required to make your booking. Any domestic train and flight tickets are also required to be paid with the deposit as once booked, these are NON-Refundable. Full payment is required 42 days before your departure from New Zealand. Cancellation by the Client

Any cancellation by a client must be made in writing. The date on which Active Asia receives the email or letter will determine the cancellation charges applicable. The cancellation charges below are a percentage of the total price, excluding insurance. A/ Cancellation more than 30 days before departure: Loss of deposit PLUS any domestic train and flight costs B/ Between 29 days and 7 days before departure: 50% of total booking C/ Less than 7 days before departure â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 100%. Insurance is strongly recommended. Please note that once purchased train and domestic airfares are non-refundable. No refund for any unused travel arrangements after departure. Prices and Surcharges

All prices are correct to the best of our knowledge at the time of print. Events beyond our control may result in price increases; AA reserves the right to pass on these changes if necessary. Flexibility

The client should appreciate and acknowledge that the nature of travel in Asia may sometimes require flexibility and should allow for alternatives. It is understood that the route, schedules, itineraries, amenities and mode of transport may be subject to alteration without prior notice, due to local circumstances or events, which may include sickness, mechanical breakdown, flight cancellations, strikes, events emanating from political disputes, entry or border difficulties, climate and or other unpredictable or unforeseeable circumstances.

Changes

AA reserves the right to change any of the facilities, services or prices described should it become necessary in the interests of safety or other unforeseen circumstances. AA will provide services equal to or exceeding those advertised if at all possible. Travel Documents

The client must be in possession of a valid passport and all visas, permits and insurance. It is ultimately the responsibility of the client to ensure they have the necessary documentation. Factors outside AA control

AA cannot accept any liability for matters outside its control such as political disputes, border closures, refusal of visas, industrial action, delayed flights or unforeseeable climatic changes. Insurance

The client is willing to accept full responsibility for insurance which must cover personal accident, medical expenses, loss of effects, repatriation costs and all other expenses which might arise as a result of loss, damage, injury, delay or inconvenience occurring to the client. It is strongly recommended that all clients have personal travel insurance. Unused Services

There will be no refunds for any unused services. Claims and Complaints

If a client has a complaint about any service or product supplied by AA they must, if on a group tour, first inform their Tour Manager whilst on the tour so that they can attempt to rectify the matter. Any other or further complaint must be put in writing to AA within 30 days of the end of the tour. Any clients on Independent arrangements should firstly try to take the matter up with the hotel or supplier at the time of the problem. Failure to bring the problem to the attention of the local supplier may forfeit any possibility of a refund or resolve to the problem. Any concerns should be bought to the attention of Active Asia, in writing, within 30 days.

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Phone: (+64-9) 360 7669 Email: sales@activeasia.co.nz www.activeasia.co.nz

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