Kta Traveler

www.kiteboardtour.asia/traveler

Traveler 2014

1. INTRO 2. CALENDAR 3. KITE EQUIPMENT 4. WHO WE ARE 5. LEARN & PROGRESS 6. SCHEDULE 7. KITE & DISCOVER 8. KITE & CRUISE PHILIPPINES © 2014 www.kiteboardtour.asia

KTA TRAVELER

© 2014 www.kiteboardtour.asia

1.Intro Š 2014 www.kiteboardtour.asia

A

re you dreaming of the best winds

enced pro riders who are happy to travel

with warm water and tropical sun-

with you and help you to progress? With

shine? Not quite as successful as you

KTA Traveler, Asia’s biggest and most

want to be in learning new moves? Do

experienced organiser for kite events, all

you want to learn this amazing sport in a

this can come true. We will travel with

unique location with reliable conditions?

you to the best kiteboarding spots in Asia

Do you want to spend an unforgettable

away from the crowds and bring you the

kite session with a group of nice people

experience of a life time.

and round it off with an amazing sunsets? Do you want a vacation with experi-

Š 2014 www.kiteboardtour.asia

2. Calendar September

November

31.A - 06. S Learn & Progress: Sri Lanka incl. kitesafari to Magic Kite Spot 07. - 13.

Learn & Progress: Sri Lanka incl. kitesafari to Magic Kite Spot

03. - 08.

10. - 15.

17. - 23.

24. - 30.

October

December

06. - 12.

13. - 19.

Kite & Discover: Wave Special Sumbawa/ Indonesia Kite & Discover: Wave Special Sumbawa/ Indonesia

01. - 07.

08. - 14.

08. - 14 16. - 22.

Learn & Progress: Kite the large open beaches Hainan/China Learn & Progress: Kite the large open beaches Hainan/China Learn & Progress: Flat Water Tropical Paradise Ishigaki/ Japan Kite & Discover: Riding with the Pro’s Ishigaki/ Japan

Learn & Progress: Union Beach & Seco Island Philippines Kite & Cruise: Island Hoping Kiter Style/Philippines Learn & Progress: Union Beach & Seco Island Philippines Kite & Cruise: Island Hoping Kiter Style/Philippines

2014 2015 January 12. - 17.

19. - 24.

March Learn & Progress: Downwind & Flat Water Bintan/ Indonesia Learn & Progress: Downwind & Flat Water Bintan/ Indonesia

February 15. - 21.

15. - 21.

23. F. -1. M

02. - 08.

14. - 20.

21. - 28.

Kite & Discover: Kite, Surf & SUP Siargao/ Philippines Learn & Progress: Jump Special Pranburi/ Thailand Kite & Discover: Kite, Wake & Yoga Pranburi/ Thaiand

May Kite & Cruise: Island Hoping Kiter Style/Philippines Learn & Progress: Union Beach & Seco Island Philippines Kite & Discover: Kite & Surf & SUP Siargao/ Philippines

11. - 17.

18. - 24.

Learn & Progress: Sri Lanka incl. kitesafari to Magic Kite Spot Learn & Progress: Sri Lanka incl. kitesafari to Magic Kite Spot

Date Disclaimer Please always make a final check on the KTA Traveler website for any possible changes to the dates that might occur http://www.kiteboardtour.asia/traveler The dates given on the website shall at all times take precedence Š 2014 www.kiteboardtour.asia

3.Kite Equipment

K

ites and boards are chosen well for each event based on the conditions at each location, ensuring that the most suitable equipment is available for you.

We offer a wide range of different brands which may vary from each location but we pride ourselves in ensuring that the most relevant equipment is available

Š 2014 www.kiteboardtour.asia

to you and that you will not be sitting on the beach due to lack of kites or boards.

4. Who Are We All trips are organised by the team of the KTA, who have been travelling all over Asia to discover locations and to organise the Asian Kiteboardtour.

After 5 years of experience organising the Kiteboardtour Asia we can for sure say we are the most experienced organizer of kite events in Asia and know Asian kiteboarding spots like the back of our hand.

Many years of teaching

kiteboarding and event organising, as well as our knowledge of the kite equipment and the contacts to the kite brands, guarantees that you will get the most out of each event and that you will progress a lot. It doesn’t matter if you are beginner or advanced rider, we want to pass our addiction for kiteboarding onto you. Discover kiteboarding with us and you too will come to love kiteboarding and Asia. We have to warn you though, kiteboarding is very addictive. Š 2014 www.kiteboardtour.asia

Š 2014 www.kiteboardtour.asia

5. Learn & Progress Intensive progression camps with pro riders

O

ne thing is for sure, riding with the pro’s will guarantee that your progression in kiteboarding will be quick and will also fuel your passion for kiting even more than before. We have chosen our favourite spots and the pro riders can’t wait to share their passion with you. You are a beginner, you want to learn

water starts, going upwind, jumps, unhooked jumps or handle passes? No problem, we will asses your level and train you from where you are, focussed on your goals and making sure you achieve them.

Intensive clinics 6 days, 5 hours a day with the nicest group of riders you will soon be calling friends.

© 2014 www.kiteboardtour.asia

ABSOLUTE BEGINNER Foreknowledge: None or you have read about kiteboarding and have seen it on TV

We will have groups of 3 different levels:

Course: 6 days intensive training Ă 5 hours a day including equipment. (incl. harness but without booties or wetsuit), event shirt is also included.

You will learn: Theory, equipment, kite setup and packing your equipment down, kite control, launch, landing and relaunch the kite , the wind window, body drag in all directions, different safety systems and water stars to get you riding on the board.

Š 2014 www.kiteboardtour.asia

INTERMEDIATE Foreknowledge: • You have finished a 2 day course!

• You know how to fly the kite, how to launch and how to land?

• You know how to water start and can ride a few meters on the board?

Course: 6 days intensive training à 5 hours a day including equipment. (incl. harness but without booties or wetsuit), event shirt is also included.

You will learn: Expand your theoretical knowledge, going upwind, changing direction with jibes, test different boards and safety systems and become a confident kiteboarder

ADVANCED Foreknowledge: • You can go upwind • You can jibe and have basic knowledge of riding Course: 6 days intensive training à 5 hours a day including equipment. (incl. harness but without booties or wetsuit), event shirt is also included.

You will learn: Different safety systems, theoretical background, jibe to switch, controlled jumping, riding toeside, riding blind and backrolls, one-footer, board off, board grabs, unhooked jumps, equipment testing.

Important: in the advanced course the goals will be individually determined © 2014 www.kiteboardtour.asia

SCHEDULED EVENTS in Hainan/ China, Ishigaki/ Japan, Boracay/Philippines, Bintan/Indonesia and Pranburi/ Thailand

Intensive progression camps with the pro riders at fantastic locations

6.Schedule Š 2014 www.kiteboardtour.asia

Learn & Progress: Kite the large open beaches Hainan/China

H

ainan Island is a perfect spot for a kite vacation. This place offers all kinds of conditions all year long, empty beaches and a lot of new experiences. Be one of the first kiters exploring the tropical kiteboarding paradise in The Hawaii of China. All lessons are in waist deep water, which makes learning Š 2014 www.kiteboardtour.asia

progression easy. 5 hours a day kiting and after our kite session we can spend the nights in town with a cool Tsing Tao beer in a Chinese beach club partying with the locals or get spoilt with a traditional Chinese massage. You will be surprised what the island has to offer and start into your kiting career.

Price per Person:

640 Euro

dates: 3-8. November 10-15. November

Includes: intensive training in small groups with experienced Instructors and pro riders, equipment pool with latest gear and event shirt.

You can book this trip at www.kiteboardtour.asia/traveler

requirements: + beginners and advanced riders

Available course languages: English, German, Chinese We Recommend: Asia Bay in Boao as your hotel choice Š 2014 www.kiteboardtour.asia

Learn & Progress: Flat Water Tropical Paradise Ishigaki/ Japan

Y

ou will have a big smile when you are kiteboarding in Ishigaki, our newest Japanese dream kiteboarding location.

Ishigaki is one of the most popular spots in Japan. Local pro riders come many times a year to train here. Local and national surf events and courses are held here due to Š 2014 www.kiteboardtour.asia

the perfect wind and weather conditions and good infrastructure. Enjoy tropical paradise all by yourself.

The spot is 3 km long and 6 km wide and protected by an outside reef, which makes the spot super flat, even in 25 knots, with beautiful turquoise water.

Ishigaki has strong high and low tides, but you can always find a shallow water area for learning or for freestyle.

No booties required as the bottom is fine sand. The wind blows from No-

Price per Person:

720 Euro

vember till March side onshore from NorthEast with constant wind between 18-25 knots.

Temperatures during daytime are between 23-26°C, at night-time 20°C, water temperature 24°C. With a shorty or 3mm wetsuit kiteboarding is enjoyable also in winter time.

dates: 17-23. November

Includes: intensive training in small groups with experienced instructors and pro riders, equipment pool with latest gear and event shirt.

You can book this trip at www.kiteboardtour.asia/traveler

requirements: + beginners and advanced riders

Available course languages: English, German, Japanese, French

© 2014 www.kiteboardtour.asia

Learn & Progress: Ishigaki/Japan with accommodation in Iriwa guesthouse Iriwa is a leisurely guest house in the Kabira village in Ishigaki-jima.

Kabira bay and Sukuji Beach are famous sightseeing spots in Ishigaki because of their natural beauty. Behind the Iriwa guesthouse is a tree coverd mountain with a flowing stream, and there are many shooting stars and beautiful fireflys at night time.

Š 2014 www.kiteboardtour.asia

Price per Person:

895 Euro*

dates: 17-23. November

requirements: + beginners and advanced riders

* 695 Euro with your own gear Includes: 7 nights in a comfort double room, beachfront & seaview incl kitchen, so we cook and prepare our meals ourselves, intensive kite training in small groups with experienced instructors and pro riders 6x5 hours , equipment pool, event shirt.

You can book this trip at www.kiteboardtour.asia/traveler

Available course languages: English, German, Japanese, French, Chinese

Š 2014 www.kiteboardtour.asia

Learn & Progress: Ishigaki/Japan with accommodation in Club Med Ishigaki

C

lub Med is a delightful resort located in the heart of a national park on Ishigaki Island. Its is surrounded by emerald waters and speckled with fine white sandy beaches where watersport activities such as sailing, windsurfing, Kiteboarding and diving are featured activities enjoyed in perfect Š 2014 www.kiteboardtour.asia

conditions as Kabira is blessed by ocean breeze! Club Med Kabira was voted by Japanese readers of four different publications as the country’s best resort. It offers luxury and comfort in a Zen atmosphere in traditional Japanese elegance on one of the best beaches of the island.

Price per Person:

1910 Euro

dates: 17-23. November

Includes: 7 nights, full board throughout the stay including wine, beer and soft drinks with lunch and dinner, open bar and snacks (at the restaurant) at specific times during the day and night in a double room, all sport offers of the club (volleyball, gym, fitness courses etc.), intensive kite training in small groups with experienced instructors and pro riders 6 days x 5 hours , equipment pool and event shirt.

You can book this trip at www.kiteboardtour.asia/traveler

requirements: + beginners and advanced riders

Available course languages: English, German, Japanese, French, Chinese

Š 2014 www.kiteboardtour.asia

Learn & Progress: Union Beach & Seco Island Philippines

U

nion Beach is same shape as the world famous kite spot Bulabog Beach on Boracay Island, just bigger and less crowded. The wind blows side onshore over the protected lagoon inside the reef, which makes it perfect for teaching and fast progression and is protected by an outside reef. Focused on kiting away from the crowd - progression is guaranteed. After 4 days we move to Seco Island, a Š 2014 www.kiteboardtour.asia

small sandbank in the south Chinese sea - one of the most amazing spots in the Philippines.

Perfect for photo sessions and the wind blows 5 knots stronger than on Boracay. We leave at 6 am and drive in a traditional Jeepnee to Culasi, where you have time to discover the market. Our boat awaits us on the jetty and together we sail to Seco which is a 2 hour ride from the mainland.

Price per Person:

690 Euro

dates: 1.-7. December 8.-14. December 15.-21.February

Includes: intensive training in small groups with experienced Instructors and pro riders 6 days x 5 hours teaching (4 days Union beach and 2 days Seco island), equipment pool with latest gear, event shirt and Seco island kitesafari.

You can book this trip at www.kiteboardtour.asia/traveler

requirements: + beginners and advanced riders

We recommend the hotel “Blue Orange Ville” on Union beach. (also, if you want to stay on Boracay for the nights and want to take the ferry every morning, then we can help you arrange this)

© 2014 www.kiteboardtour.asia

S

eco Island is a sandbank in the middle of nowhere with perfect conditions. You can go kiting as soon as you arrive, while our boat crew sets up our camp with solar showers, tents to sleep in, hammocks to chill out in and a kitchen area for our cook to prepare the feasts. You will find all wind Š 2014 www.kiteboardtour.asia

directions but mostly people ride on the offshore side, as the water is super flat. The island is very small and you can even kite all the way around it. There is a safety boat on the Island, so even the most adventurous riders will be safe at all times.

S

eco includes: - 3 days full board (3 meals a day) - Tents, mattreses and blankets - drinks: juices, soft drinks, beer and rhum - rescue service - guaranteed great memories

You can book this trip at www.kiteboardtour.asia/traveler

Available course languages: English, German, Chinese Š 2014 www.kiteboardtour.asia

Learn & Progress: Downwind & Flat Water Bintan/Indonesia

B

intan provided one of the biggest surprises during the KTA - we loved the hospitality and fell in love with the kite spot.

Little known for its kiting scene Bintan sits close to Singapore provided great conditions, good winds, fantastic hosts and a great experience for riders. We really want to share this location with you - to kite here is a true Š 2014 www.kiteboardtour.asia

blessing! We kite at Trikora Beach, a spot with very flat water, which makes it one of the best places in the world to learn kiteboarding and for practicing free style tricks. Trikora beach has very clean water, as there is no commercial shipping in the this area. The best surprise for the end of the week- will be a long downwinder with all the riders

Learn kiting with us and experience your first downwinder after one week- travel with the kite along the beautiful coastline inside a safe and waist deep lagoon.

Price per Person:

620 Euro*

dates: 12-17. January 2015 19-24. January 2015

Includes: intensive training in small groups with experienced

Instructors and pro riders 6 days x 5 hours, equipment pool with latest gear and the amazing event shirt You can book this trip at www.kiteboardtour.asia/traveler

requirements: + beginners and advanced riders

We recommend you the hotel Agro Beach Resort, Trikora Beach or budget option Shady Shack.

Available course languages: English, German, Chinese Š 2014 www.kiteboardtour.asia

Learn & Progress: Jump Special Pranburi/ Thailand

Y

ou’ve been trying to learn a trick for ages but haven’t quite got it right yet?

With this training you will have the trick easily landed and conquered. We offer you a unique Kiteboarding & Cable teaching experience with our pro riders from the KTA. Guaranteed to have the trick landed in no time, Wind or no Wind doesn’t matter, as we have the use of the Thailand Kite Cable, which means we can still teach © 2014 www.kiteboardtour.asia

with no wind or even at night. Part of the coaching will be only on the cable, as this allows you to get comfortable with the board before adding the kite to the equation. It will also prepare you for the water start.

Our new Bluetooth intercom system allows us to deliver timely instruction in a calm and controlled manner, our students feel they get much better tuition whilst feeling safer and more comfortable.

Price per Person:

620 Euro*

dates: 14-20 March 2015

+ beginners, intermediate and advanced, who want to learn jumps (backrolls, raileys, sbends and handlepasses)

* 620 € with your own equipment, 890 € with Equipment pool

T

he fact that we have direct contact with the student at all times regardless of whether they are in the water or half way up the beach is a massive time saver, and a huge boost to the quality of our lessons.

Includes: 7 nights in Lakeside Chalet, 7 days unlimited

riding at the Kitecable, 10% off for all drinks and food in island bar and 10% from all other activities, intensive training in small groups with experienced Instructors and pro riders 6 days x 5 hours, video coaching and Bluetooth coaching, BBQ Night and event shirt. You can book this trip at www.kiteboardtour.asia/traveler

© 2014 www.kiteboardtour.asia

Learn & Progress: Sri Lanka incl. kitesafari to Magic Kite Spot

W

ith more than a dozen spots, you will be kiting in heaven. Experience uncrowded beaches with Wind that blows at an average of 18-20 knots 24 hours a day for 7 days a week and sure this is the best place for progressing, which is why we love it and this is why we want to train you there. We live in small bungalows facing the kite spot. Š 2014 www.kiteboardtour.asia

Full board is included, so it’s pretty much eat, kite, sleep and spend amazing nights stargazing with new friends and a cold beer.

You will experience an intensive training of 5 days x 5 hours a day kiting in front of your door. The last day will top the rest of the week with a kite safari to the Magic Kite Spot, on the islands up north.

A

fter a 45 minutes boat ride we launch the kites and go for an epic flat water downwinder along beautiful sand banks before arriving on a small white sand island. Picnic

Price per Person:

885 Euro*

lunch and drinks are provided. The week couldn’t end better than with a day out on the islands with new friends and the most amazing kiting!

The trip can be combined with the Kite & Discover trips in the Sri Lanka.

dates:

31.-6.September 2014 11.-17.May 2015 18.-24.May 2015

Includes: 7 nights in bungalows incl. full board, inten-

sive training in small groups with experienced Instructors and pro riders 6 days à 5 hours (5 days in Kalpitiya+ 2 days Magic Kite Spot), equipment pool with latest gear, event shirt, 1 day kitesafari all incl. Magic Kite Spot (all inclusive) You can book this trip at www.kiteboardtour.asia/traveler

requirements: + beginners and advanced riders

Available course languages: English, French, German, Chinese

© 2014 www.kiteboardtour.asia

Join us on exclusive discovery trips to our favourite kite spots in Asia away from the crowds.

New friends and many surprises are guaranteed.

You have been 7 times to El Gouna and 3 times to Brasil and you are looking for new adventures?

7. Kite & Discover Š 2014 www.kiteboardtour.asia

Event price per Person:

680

Kite & Discover: Wave Special Sumbawa/Indonesia

Euro

Includes:

airport shuttle, 7 nights in Lakey Beach Inn, double rooms incl. breakfast, coaching and tips from pro riders, learning to get into the waves- 4-5 hour sessions every day depending on wind and tides, video analysis of your sessions, event shirt, 1 week surfboard rental, 7 days motorbike rental. Surfing lessons can be booked in addition, please ask if you want to rent latest kitegear from us.

You can book this trip at www.kiteboardtour.asia/traveler

S

umbawa is one of the best-kept secrets for kiting. International surf magazines have hundreds of photos of these clean, glassy and huge waves in their archives.

With an inland flight from Bali you reach Sumbawa within 45 minutes and will be welcomed with horse and cart, green mountains and lush rice fields on the way to Lakey Beach. It will be a week full of surfing and kiting- a must do for all those who love waves or who want to get into wave riding. There are two spots Pipe Break if you are looking for big swell and Nungas, which is perfect for learning and to start with smaller waves. The whole week will pretty much look like this: surf, kite, sleep, eat, chill with new friends and surfers from all over the world and maybe even enjoy a

cold beer. Sumbawa is famous for its white sandy beaches and constant waves, but if you are looking for sightseeing or shopping, then this would definitely be the wrong trip for you, as there is not much else to do other than watersports. Kite and surf with us on these secret spots like Lakey Pipe, Lakey Peak, Nungas, Periscope and Cobblestone.

date: 6-12. October 13.-20. October

requirements:

+ advanced riders able to go upwind + riders, who want to learn to kite in the waves for the first time + kiters with wave experience

Š 2014 www.kiteboardtour.asia

Event price per Person:

695 Euro

*

Kite & Discover: Riding with the Pro’s Ishigaki/ Japan

*with your own kite equipment, ask for a price if you need rental gear

Includes:

7 nights in a comfort double room in Iriwa, beachfront & seaview incl kitchen, so we cook and prepare our meals ourselves, event shirt, BBQ night, daytrip to Taketomi Island and daytrip to Kohama island- kiting in different spots, all transportation and tips by international pro riders which will be joining us on this trip.

You can book this trip at www.kiteboardtour.asia/traveler

T

he land of the smiles- and this is what we will do once on the water. You will be surprised by this Japanese tropical paradise - its kiter’s heaven.

Local pro riders come for training to these locations. Local and national surf events and courses are held because of the good wind and weather conditions and good infrastructure. Enjoy tropical paradise all by yourself. Perfect for progression and to discover different spots, small islands outside and white sandbanks in turquoise water.

True Paradise.

Wind blows from November till March side onshore from North East with constant winds between 18-25 knots.

Temperatures during the daytime is between 23-26°C, at night time 20°C, water tempera-

ture 24°C. With a shorty or 3 mm wetsuit kiteboarding is enjoyable also in winter time. Chikara is the man of the island kite scene. Chikara will be our ideal captain and weather man, as he knew exactly what will happen with the wind and tide conditions daily, and of course where it would be good for kiting. Ishigaki’s conditions are good, it’s beautiful and has a great welcoming vibe.

requirements: + beginners and advanced riders

date: 24-30. Novemeber +Can be combined with Learn & Progress: Ishigaki/ Japan © 2014 www.kiteboardtour.asia

Event price per Person:

680

Kite & Discover: Kite, Surf & SUP Siargao/Philippines

Euro

Includes:

7 nights incl. breakfast in Ocean 101, island hopping for kite and surf airport transfers, SUP Board rental & surfboard rental, stand up paddle daytrip to Caob Lagoon, motorbike rental 7 days, event shirt, party night in Junglebar You can book this trip at www.kiteboardtour.asia/traveler

Kite & Discover: Kite, Surf & SUP Siargao/Philippines incl. Yoga* +*Yoga package 7 hours(23 February-1. March)

Event p per Per

72

Eur

price rson:

R

eady for action packed week on the water? Join us and visit the ‘capital of waves’ in the Philippines, but its not what you expect!- Siargao has it all - huge flat water lagoons, wave spots, small sandbanks and islands to do downwinders to. If the wind is light, the waves are on all year and there are countless spots to surf at.

Our kite spots will be decided in the mornings depending on the wind and tides, but we will spend a lot of time on the water for sure- with either SUP, KITE or SURF or even all in one day.

We are located directly in front of the beginner surf spot in Ocean 101 resort with one of the best restaurants on the island, it’s a 2 minute walk to the world famous spot Cloud 9, which is perfect for kiteboarding also.

For people who prefer to kite in a

shallow waist deep lagoon- it’s a 5 minute drive to a huge lagoon, where you have the whole place for yourself, as Siargao is still undiscovered for kite tourism. It’s a perfect vacation for people who love to kite in more than one spot, who are open to downwinders, but who want to try the waves too.

20

ro

© 2014 www.kiteboardtour.asia

F

or beginners or surfers who want to try kiteboarding, there will be a course in the shallow lagoons and at the end an easy downwinder inside the lagoon.

Another highlight of the trip will be a standup paddle tour to beautiful Caob Lagoon, located 30 minutes north of Del Carmen, the biggest Mangrove Swamp in the Philippines.

Y

oga package: Yoga and surfing is a popular combination for many surfers.

Professional riders use yoga to improve their performance in the water. Yoga offers a wide range of breathing, balance and stretching exercises, which helps your kiteboarding performance and speeds up the regeneration process of your body. Yoga is a mixture of Hatha, focusing on aligning and conditioning the body, plus sport Š 2014 www.kiteboardtour.asia

(beginner course kiteboarding incl. equipment: additional 290 Euro for 12 hours incl. license, surf lesson beginner: 1 session a day 100 Euro incl. equipment)

specific yoga techniques incorporating dynamic sequences specifically designed to keep your body and mind balanced, strong and in peak shape for life on and off the water. No previous experience in Yoga is required as everything will be personalised and tailored to fit your level and needs.

date: +23. February - 1. March (yoga ) + 2.-8. March

requirements:

+ beginners, intermediate and advanced riders who surf or stand up paddle and who want to get into kiteboarding Š 2014 www.kiteboardtour.asia

Event price per Person:

570* Euro

Kite & Discover: Kite, Wake & Yoga Pranburi/Thaiand (*with your own gear, 750 Euro incl. equipment pool)

Included: 6x morning and evening yoga session, 10 hours intensive teaching by pro riders (we check your level and continue your progression from there, beginners are welcome) either on the cable or on the kite. Video teaching and Bluetooth teaching, event shirt, 7 nights incl. breakfast, for advanced riders Pranburi downwinder to Huahin , visit the night market in Huahin, 7 days equipment pool for kiteboarding You can book this trip at www.kiteboardtour.asia/traveler Š 2014 www.kiteboardtour.asia

T

he course will work in harmony with the wind and elements during the week, but every morning and evening will begin and end with a highly beneficial and therapeutic yoga session for the body and mind. Yoga is a mixture of Hatha, focusing on aligning and conditioning the body, plus sport specific yoga techniques incorporating dynamic sequences specifically designed to keep your body and mind balanced, strong and in peak shape for life on and off the water. After Yoga and a healthy breakfast- its time to get on the water - we will train either on the kitecable to learn what ever you have always wanted to learn, if the wind is good we go kiting.

Get ready for 5 hours a day on the water.

date: + 14.- 20.March

requirements: + beginners, intermediate and advanced

Š 2014 www.kiteboardtour.asia

Event price per Person:

680* Euro

Kite & Discover: Wave Special Sumbawa/Indonesia

own kite equipment

Includes:

airport transfers, 7 nights incl. full board in bungalows facing the Indian ocean, directly located on the kite spot, accompanied kiting with the pro riders 4-5 hours a day, 2 downwind trips- inside Puttalam Lagoon to the islands (daytrip) and daytrip to Magic Kite Spot,event video, Morning safari to Wilpattu Natonal Park (famous for its elephants), event shirt You can book this trip at www.kiteboardtour.asia/traveler

Event p per Pe

88

Eu

7 days kitep

price erson:

T

his trip is the right trip for people, who don’t want to only kite, but who want to discover the country as well. Beautiful national parks, nice lagoons, wildlife such as elephants, leopards and eagles and very welcoming locals. The trip still includes loads of kiting, we kite in different lagoons, do 2 downwinders one of which is inside Puttalam lagoon to the small islands, where we do a picnic and spend pretty much all day on the water. The other downwinder brings us to Dutch Bay with its beautiful sandbanks. Spend the nights stargazing at the campfire with new friends from all over the world.

Sri Lanka is one of the safest spots for wind- as it blows every day non stop!!!!

80

uro

date: 7.- 13. September

requirements:

+ beginners, intermediate and advanced kiteboarders (Beginner kite course incl. gear: add. 370 Euro 12 hours incl. license)

pool included Š 2014 www.kiteboardtour.asia

Kiteboard Robinson islands of the Philipยกpines - 6 day cruise to TOPSPOTS such as SECO ISLAND, BATBATAN, CALUYA

6 days Kitesafari, means kiting on different spots and to get to know country and people.

8. Kite & Cruise: Island Hoping Kiter Style/Philippines Š 2014 www.kiteboardtour.asia

Maximum: 8 Kiters per date * The tour can start with minimum 4 people

A

luxurious catamaran , 8 people and 7000 islands!

Mission: Kite Cruise through the South China Sea to unspoilt islands. Kite spots Euro with white sand, palm trees and crystal clear water, these are the Philippine islands away from the tourism capital Boracay.

Start is on Boracay Island and our captain, an experienced kiter as well, brings us to the best kite spots of the Visayas such as Cresta de Gallo, Tablas, Romblon, Seco Island and Batbatan.

You can expect many hours of kiting with good winds and a lot of space on the water and the possibility to captain the 44 foot catamaran.

Event price per Person:

890*

T

here will be downwinders by kite from island to island and in the evening we prepare our fresh caught fish on the bonfire. Accommodation is in double cabins onboard our catamaran Siriya or who wants, can sleep on the beach next to the camp fire or in a tent. An unforgettable trip, with a small group of maximum 8 people. An extension week on Boracay is recommended or a combination with the roadtrip to the kite spots in the north would also be possible.

dates: + 8.-14.December + 16.-22. December +15-21.February

requirements: + being able to go upwind

Includes:

6 days fullboard and drinks included, welcome cocktail onboard of our catamaran, shuttle service from the airport in Caticlan, kite instructor (kite gear not included),tour guide & cook, 6 nights in double cabins of our luxurious catamaran, our skipper Kareem, who sailed around the world and who has many stories to tell you, event shirt You can book this trip at www.kiteboardtour.asia/traveler Š 2014 www.kiteboardtour.asia

1. SRI LANKA 2. SUMBAWA/ INDONESIA 3. HAINAN/CHINA 4. SIARGAO/ PHILIPPINES 5. BINTAN/ INDONESIA 6. PRANBURI/THAILAND 7. ISHIGAKI/JAPAN

KTA TRAVEL GUIDE

© 2014 www.kiteboardtour.asia

GUIDEBOOK WITH TRAVELLING INFORMATION, SEASONS AND SPOT DESCRIPTIONS FOR KTA-TRAVELER DESTINATIONS If there are any questions please email to: traveler@kiteboardtour.asia

T

his guidebook is a help to get an impressions how the spots and wind conditions are, to help decide on which trip is most suited to you. The hotels we mention are hotels of a long list in each destination, but these are the ones we know and we recommend and which are easily bookable. If you need pricelists or contacts or pictures of the hotels please contact us. Many of the hotels mentioned are bookable in online! Š 2014 www.kiteboardtour.asia

1.SRI LANKA

S

ri Lanka is a good location for people who want to kite, kite and kite. It’s relatively undeveloped for tourism in the Kalpitiya area, which is where the kiting spots are located. The resorts are quite far from each other. As restaurants in town are limited, most of the resorts sell their rooms incl. full board. We would like the group to stay together during this trip, so we offer the Learn & Progress and the Kite & Discover as an all inclusive trip

R

equirements: the Learn & Progress is for all levels (beginners to very advanced). The Kite & Discover is for people who can ride safe in both directions, go upwind, but who also would like to see the country and not just kiteboard. Both trips include accommodation. Š 2014 www.kiteboardtour.asia

HOW TO GET THERE

K

alpitiya is located 165 km North from Colombo and is kiters paradise. You can get there by bus/car which is about 3.5 hours drive. Public transport is available from Colombo to Puttalam, after which

you can take a tricycle. Also you can hire a van with driver for 7000-8000 LKR from airport. We can organise an airport shuttle service (NeÂĄbombo to Kalpitya 50 Euro)

SPOT INFO

A

lankuda is prime spot for kiteboarding, thanks to the strong winds which blow down either side of the peninsula: beginners head for the calmer waters of the lagoon; more advanced kiters head out onto the ocean waves. You have many small lagoons in front of the resorts separated from the sea only by a sandbank. And then there is Puttalam Lagoon, which is 30km long and a huge lagoon with flat water, loads of space and some waves. The Northern tip of the Peninsula, where the kite safaris go to, are small islands with flat and shallow water. Š 2014 www.kiteboardtour.asia

WIND CONDITIONS AND CLIMATE

T

he best time for kiting is from May to October (wind speed: 20-25 knots every day), when the winds blows most strongly; kiting at other times of the year is also possible. Winter season is from December until February (wind speed: 12-20 knots, 4-6 days a week). Average temperatures throughout rarely drop much below 30 °C, but at

certain times high rainfall and stormy conditions mean that your idyllic beach plans are best made elsewhere. Rainfall is at its highest between June and September, although August is often an exception with much lower rainfall. For the Learn & Progress trip kite equipment is available. Most flown sizes will be 9-11m kites.

VISA

N

ew visa rules have been imposed with effect from 1st January 2012 where online visa must be applied for countries except Singapore and Maldives before entering the country. This tourist ETA visa is valid for 3 months, starting from the day it has been approved. The visa is double entry, which means you can enter the country twice during the three-month period. Š 2014 www.kiteboardtour.asia

HEALTH

A

ll travellers are advised to ensure that their diphtheria, tetanus and polio vaccinations are kept up to date. A booster dose is needed if it is longer than ten years since you last had a vaccine against these diseases.

EAT & DRINK

F

ood is included in the accommodation- but still: don’t miss local street food like egg roti, which you can find on every corner. There are no bars, but you can buy arrack/wine/beer from wine stores. Shops are closed by 9 PM, so plan early.

OTHER ACTIVITIES

F

or people who want to extend their stay in addition to kiteboarding, a range of other watersports including snorkeling, kayaking and deep-sea fishing can also be arranged. There’s particularly good diving in the nearby Bar Reef, home to some of Sri © 2014 www.kiteboardtour.asia

Lanka’s most pristine and bio diverse coral gardens, home to over 150 types of coral and almost 300 species of tropical fish. Dolphin & Whale watching is starting to become popular in Kalpitiya.

HOTELS

K

alpitiya is relatively under developed for tourism. We decided for our to Learn & Progress and also for the Kite & Discover trip to have our base in Sethawadiya Lodge. It is a nice eco style hotel located on the beach of Kalpitiya Lagoon. It’s the only resort where you can stay directly on the kite spot and kite from the resort, enjoying the view and sharing the atmosphere in a peaceful location. There are different kinds of rooms to suit everyone’s budget. All the rooms are lagoon facing.

Sethawadiya Lodge: Eco Room (28 Euro incl. full board)-Sethawadya Comfort Plus Challet (55-75 Euro incl.full board) Other possibilities (even though we prefer to stay as a group together, cause camps are far away from each other) • Dolphin Eco View Lodge. Nice bungalow style resort on the Dutch Bay lagoon, price starts from 30 Euro • Kitesurfing Lanka Tents, Economy Rooms and Premium Rooms between 35 -60 Euro per person incl. full board • Elements- luxury lagoon bungalows 50-65 Euro incl. half board © 2014 www.kiteboardtour.asia

2.SUMBAWA/INDONESIA If it’s waves you’re after, look no further.

Come to Sumbawa between September and November, and find the perfect blend of reliable South East trade winds and swell, delivering the cleanest waves imaginable. There are not too many kiteboard spots on the Indonesian island Sumbawa, as the rocky coastline is difficult to access at many places. On the other hand, the suggested spots below could entertain us for weeks in a row.

T

We have decided for this place because there is a choice of spots where we can train and its perfect for people starting to learn riding the waves, but also for advanced riders. Our wave special is for kiters who can ride safely already and who enjoy a lot of watertime during their vacation. If people join us for this trip it’s all about Kiteboarding and surfing

he trip is planned for people who can kiteboard already and go upwind. For kiteboarders who want to start kiting in the waves or want to get more experienced in the waves. The package includes accommodation. If the guest wants to stay in more exclusive places, email us please (we can recommended some places) © 2014 www.kiteboardtour.asia

S

HOW TO GET THERE

umbawa is not the easiest place to get to. The best way probably is to fly to Denpasar airport on Bali, which has regular connections to many major airports worldwide. From there, there are connecting flights to Bima airport or Besar airport on Sumbawa.

These flights take about one hour. Bima is closest to the kite spots near Huu, at about 40km distance. Getting around on the hilly landscape of Sumbawa can be problematic as well. Buses, taxis and car rental companies are all available at the airports, but easy transportation isn’t found everywhere.

VISA

N

ationals of Australia and EU may apply for a Visa on Arrival for a length of stay of 30 days by paying US$25 at major entry points Š 2014 www.kiteboardtour.asia

SPOT INFO

L

akey is a world-class spot with magnificent waves (4-5m high) breaking on the reef about 700 metres from shore.

Inside the reef, a 500 meters wide turquoise lagoon offers flat to choppy water conditions. During low tide, Lakey gets too shallow, but you can continue your ride in the next bay, on a spot called Nungas. You’ll find similar conditions: Waves on the reef and a flat water in the lagoon near shore. The waves are smaller than at Lakey, but easier to ride and longer. For this reason, Nungas is the best place for practicing wave riders. When winds are from the East (Lakey and Nungas then have offshore winds), Nangadoro is also Š 2014 www.kiteboardtour.asia

a good option. It gets more swells than Nungas and even Lakey, so it is suitable for experienced wave riders only (also due to the fact that the reef is dangerously shallow). For more relaxed conditions, head to Jalla (13km north of Lakey). You will find flat-water conditions, excellent for freeriding.

WIND CONDITIONS AND CLIMATE

A

lthough there are two wind seasons in Indonesia - one during the rainy season and the other during the dry season -, there is only one suitable period for kiteboarding in Sumbawa, which works best with winds from the South. This leaves the short period between September and November,

when both wind and waves are optimal. In this season, wind reliability is high with only 5 non-kiteable days per month. Water temperatures are constantly between 27-29°C (81-84°F), so shorts and lycras are all you need. Kite sizes ranges between 9-12m.

HEALTH

T

he only vaccine required by international regulations is yellow fever. Proof of vaccination will only be required if you have visited a country in the yellow-fever zone within the six days prior to entering Indonesia. If you are travelling to Indonesia from Africa or South America you should check to see if you require proof of vaccination. © 2014 www.kiteboardtour.asia

HOTELS

L

akey Beach Inn Hotel is the hotel which is included in our package and will be our base during the wave camp.

However there is plenty of accommodation in Sumbawa from super budget to luxury and here are some of our recommendations:

Top Choice: Amangati Hotel amangatihotel.com The most professional operation on the beach, this Balinese-run, three-star spot, has new, attractive and modern rooms perfectly oriented to the break. However, rooms in the old building have higher ceilings and bigger beds, and you should check out the cottages too. All come with wood furnishings, (almost) hot water, DVD players, international cable TV and air-con.

Nungas Surf House www.lakeypeaksurf.com Bertrand Fleury, a world-class kite surfer and Lakey pioneer hosts a revolving door of kite pros from July to November for the wind season. But when he’s gone he rents his two excellent wood houses that sleep up to five, with full kitchen, private decks, outdoor baths, and set right on the Nungas break. You can rent by the night or the month. Price depends upon the number of people in your group. Š 2014 www.kiteboardtour.asia

COSTS Indonesia remains one of the cheapest travel destinations in Asia. Hotels, food and transport are all inexpensive in US dollar terms. Accommodation is usually the greatest expense of Indonesian travel. A stream of price hikes in petrol during 2005 increased the cost of bus travel, although it’s still inexpensive by any standard. Three square warung (food stall) meals can cost you as little as US$2 (less than 10,000Rp per meal), but even if you dine in decent local restaurants, you still won’t be spending much more than US$10 per day (around 30,000Rp per meal) on food.

OTHER ACTIVITIES Kite Surfing , fishing, snorkeling, diving, bike riding and stand up paddle boarding. The surrounding areas are nothing short of magnificent with mountains, rivers and white sand beaches. The locals are friendly and helpful.

© 2014 www.kiteboardtour.asia

T

3.HAINAN/CHINA

oday, it is undergoing heavy tourist-oriented development with various international hotel chains establishing resorts, especially in the Sanya and Boao area. Hainan is being promoted as China’s Hawaii. It’s a good location for beginners- constant wind and a huge shallow lagoon with not many kiters- so the space is all yours. It’s a nice destination if you want to experience China for beginners and if you are interested in its culture and people too, this is the place.

This trip is perfect for all levels- pure beginners starting from zero, but also for advanced riders who want to progress fast. Accommodation can be adjusted to the guests wishes- cheap and simple or luxury for decent prices.

SPOT INFO

K

ite Season October to February. We kite at the beach front of a hotel, which hosted the World Championships in 2013. It is a huge shallow water lagoon with a lot of space , the beach as very wide and empty. Good for learning. Anticipated water states to be expected are flat- water and light chop on the inside to chop and light swell on the outside or small to medium waves at the second spot. © 2014 www.kiteboardtour.asia

B

HOW TO GET THERE

oao is somewhat over an hour from Haikou and about two hours from Sanya. from Sanya take the high speed bullet train to Boao station and taxi to Boao Town; from Haikou take the bullet train to the Qionghai station, take a shuttle bus into Qionghai and transfer to bus #2, a taxi from the Qionghai train station to Boao will run around 50 RMB. We can organise an airport shuttle.

H

VISA

ainan is unique in all of China in that the island offers visa on arrival. People from countries, which have diplomatic relations and official trade with China [official government wording] can apply for a 15 day tourist visa on arrival at Haikou and Sanya via sea or air. The procedure takes less than half an hour Š 2014 www.kiteboardtour.asia

HEALTH

N

o vaccinations required for entering the country, but Childhood diseases, like measles, are still a concern in many parts of the world. Its recommended to travelers to be up to date with routine vaccinations, including measles/mumps/rubella (MMR), diphtheria/pertussis/tetanus (DPT) and poliovirus vaccine. You should have a DPT booster every 10 years to keep the vaccination up to date.

EAT & DRINK

B

oao has everything from five star dining, ocean front seafood dining and local eateries featuring Chinese cuisine from nearly every province. The main street of Boao is lined with outdoor restaurants and fruit sellers serving until the wee hours of the night. Fields of pineapples surround Boao and there is a lot of nature to be explored. Sample a peeled pineaple on a stick for only 1 RMB. A tropical island, visitors to Hainan can eat fresh fruit all year round. Š 2014 www.kiteboardtour.asia

B

est beach bar in town: the newly opened Sea Story. A must see place! Newly opened beach-side restaurant and bar, has awesome location right on the beach in Boao Town. The decor is pure Hainan Island with oversized chairs, a bar made out of a boat and a fantastic seashell chandelier!

WIND CONDITIONS AND CLIMATE

H

ainan Island enjoys a monsoon tropical and subtropical climate with annual average temperatures ranging between 18°C to 38°C throughout the year.

In late November the NE winter monsoon should be established bringing predominately NE winds of between 12 to 18 knots

on average to the Boao area of Hainan Island. Our Learn & Progress location will give a cross-on wind direction for the beach, which makes this a great spot for learning.

Average air temperatures can be expected during the event are 22°C to 25°C, with average water temperatures of 25°C to 28°C.

© 2014 www.kiteboardtour.asia

HOTELS Boao Yudaiwan Hotel, (short walk to bus stop). New, big and comfortable. Huge swimming pool, two restaurants.

Asia Bay Hotel 50 Euro Double room incl. breakfast, high quality room facilities, including satellite/cable TV, separate shower and tub, executive lounge access, jacuzzi bathtub, balcony/terrace, to help you recharge after a long day. The hotel offers many unique recreational opportunities such as outdoor pool, private beach, pool (kids), water sports (non-motorised), fitness center.

Boao Sofitel Hotel, (on the beachfront, on tropical Dongyu Island). The resort features 437 spacious rooms, five restaurants, five bars, a business centre and indoor/outdoor spas. Recreation facilities include a swimming pool, outdoor natural hot springs, a fitness center, tennis courts and a new world class PGA championship golf course designed by Graham Marsh

Š 2014 www.kiteboardtour.asia

Lai An Guesthouse Hainan. This typical 3 star Chinese Guest house offers very clean rooms with Aircon. and TV at only 15 Euro’s per night for a double or tripple room and is a good choice for budget travellers. This guesthouse is conveniently located in town and with walking distance to the beach and the Sea Story Beach Bar. Some rooms have sea view.

OTHER ACTIVITIES

S

urfing and SUP are both available, also visits of the temple and the nearby

Miao Villages in the mountains are highly recommended. Š 2014 www.kiteboardtour.asia

4.SIARGAO/ PHILIPPINES

S

iargao is a tear-drop shaped island in the Philippine Sea situated 800 kilometers southeast of Manila in the province of Surigao del Norte. The coastline is marked by a succession of reefs, small points and white sandy beaches- home to some of the postcard-perfect islands. One has to fall in love with the island, the moment you step on it - the smiles and warmth of the locals with give you something to remember.

Known as Surfers Paradise and hosting international Surf competitions, slowly slowly also Kiteboarders are discovering the huge playground in the water.

A perfect trip for all levels, beginners who start from zero, but also people who love Š 2014 www.kiteboardtour.asia

downwinders or advanced who want to go into the waves. In combination with the yoga package is a nice trip if non kiters accompany you on this trip. We recommend to stay at Ocean 101 to have the group experience and as the resort is perfectly located on the spot for a very good price.

If people want to stay more exclusive, email us and check our recommendations below.

C

HOW TO GET THERE

ebu pacific flies from Cebu to Siargao and Surigao.

From Surigao your guests can also catch a ferry (3 hours) to Surigao. Soon there will be direct flights from Manila.

E

SPOT INFO

xpect countless surf spots to choose from. General Luna alone has 16 different wave spots, most famous Cloud 9, Stimpy’s and Jacking Horse. The shallow waters between the reef and the beach makes General Luna a great place to kite also for beginners. In the north of the island- Alegria is a shallow lagoon protected by an outside reef, which rarely sees kiteboarders, but that will change very fast. For people who like downwinders a trip from Cloud 9 inside the lagoon to the white sand islands in front of General Luna like Naked Island, Daku und Guyam Island is recommended. Š 2014 www.kiteboardtour.asia

WIND CONDITIONS AND CLIMATE

T

he rainy season lasts mid November to early March, as Siargao is facing the Pacific ocean, but during this time you can still expect a lot of nice weather. Wind blows at the same time, strongest in December- February, forming waves for experts on the reef.

Temperature ranges from a low 21°C in December/January to a high 32°C in June; wetsuits not needed.

HEALTH

T

he only vaccine required by international regulations is yellow fever. Proof of vaccination will only be required if you have visited a country in the yellow-fever zone within the six days prior to entering Southeast Asia. If you are travelling to Southeast Asia from Africa or South America you should check to see if you require proof of vaccination.

© 2014 www.kiteboardtour.asia

HOTELS • Low budget: Ocean 101 bar, restaurant & resort, Turtle Kite & Surf Camp

(Beach & Surf site) • Medium price: Siargao Inn, Romantic Beach Villas, Isla Cabana Resort • Luxury: Kanilaw Resort, Kawayan Resort

VISA

C

itizens of nearly all countries do not need a visa to enter the Philippines for stays of less than 30 days – you’ll be given a 30-day visa on arrival in the country.

However, you may well be asked for proof of an exit or onward ticket upon arrival in the country

OTHER ACTIVITIES

S

urfing, island hopping, Stand up Paddle trips in the Mangroves or in Caob Lagoon, Motorbike trips around the island, Trips to Sohoton Cave and swimming in the jellyfish Lagoon, Scuba diving and Golf

5.BINTAN/ INDONESIA

B

intan is truly a unique paradise. Simple life, beautiful beaches, friendly people which bring us smiles. The island gives the refreshment to mind and body and offers endless lagoons for kiteboarders who don’t mind to kite most of the time on big kite sizes like 12 and 14 m. Tanjung Pinang, Kijang, Kawal, Trikora Beach, Senggarang, Tanjung Uban and Lagoi / Bintan Resort sites, are places that should not missed when you are on Bintan.

Bintan Learn & Progress is a pure progression camp for beginners and advanced. It doesn’t include the accommodation to keep the choice open for the guests. We recommend hotels in all price categories below.

SPOT INFO

E

ndless shallow lagoons and good winds for beginners- constant onshore wind, between 12-20 knots. There is loads of space and for people advancing fast, downwinders between 5-20 km can be done inside the lagoon along the coast. The water is flat, as the lagoons are protected by an outside reef along the whole east coast. All spots are along Trikora Beach. © 2014 www.kiteboardtour.asia

B

est gateway is Singapore. Indonesian residents can fly directly from Jakarta to Bintan. Alternatively it is accessible via a 50-minute ride on a high-speed ferry catamaran from Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal.

The Ferry Terminal is conveniently situated close to Changi International Airport Singapore (about 10 min by taxi). You can book your ferry online at the following website www.brf.com.sg. If you plan to connect

HOW TO GET THERE flights arriving in Singapore with a ferry for Bintan we recommend allowing at least 3 hours connecting time. Book a large taxi at the limousine counter at the arrival hall of Changi airport to get to the Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal with kite gear. This service is available 24 hours, and costs a flat rate of SGD60. Regular taxis (at the taxi stand) are a lot cheaper, but may not be able to fit your equipment.

VISA International passports must be valid for at least six months from the date of arrival in Bintan, Indonesia. A Visa-On-Arrival (VOA) for Indonesia is required for some nationalities. Please ensure that you have one full page available for the Indonesian Immigrations Visa. Nationals of Australia and EU may apply for a Visa on Arrival for a length of stay of 30 days by paying US$25 at major entry points. Š 2014 www.kiteboardtour.asia

HEALTH

T

he only vaccine required by international regulations is yellow fever. Proof of vaccination will only be required if you have visited a country in the yellow-fever zone within the six days prior to entering Indonesia. If you are travelling to Indonesia from Africa or South America you should check to see if you require proof of vaccination.

HOTELS

For kiteboarding it’s best to choose one of the hotels on Trikora Beach • Low price: The Shady Shack • Medium price: Agro Beach, Bintan Cabana Resort • Luxury: Trikora Beach Club

OTHER ACTIVITIES

V

isit Tanjung Pinang City, eat at the night market, fishing, trekking to the waterfall, island hopping, scuba diving, golf, motorbike trip around the island and a relaxing massage © 2014 www.kiteboardtour.asia

COSTS Indonesia remains one of the cheapest travel destinations in Asia. Hotels, food and transport are all inexpensive in US dollar terms. Accommodation is usually the greatest expense of Indonesian travel. A stream of price hikes in petrol during 2005 increased the cost of bus travel, although it’s still inexpensive by any standard. Three square warung (food stall) meals can cost you as little as US$2 (less than 10,000Rp per meal), but even if you dine in decent local restaurants, you still won’t be spending much more than US$10 per day (around 30,000Rp per meal) on food.

B

WIND CONDITIONS AND CLIMATE

intan is very close to the equator and has a tropical climate throughout the year, with temperatures ranging from 21 °C to 32°C, with an average of 26°C. Humidity ranges from 61 to 96 percent.

The period between October to March is

characterized as the north monsoon season with more rainfall and stronger winds, but the weather is generally sunny all year around. Wind blows December to February between 12-20 knots. © 2014 www.kiteboardtour.asia

O

6.PRANBURI/THAILAND

ver the years Hua Hin main beach has become a very popular kiteboarding spot, for this reason the beach has become crowded with students, riders and schools along the beach. If you want away from the hustle and bustle of Hua Hin city, crowded beaches and traffic, then Pranburi is the perfect spot for you. Surrounded by picturesque mountains this little beach town (pak nam pran beach) is a private little paradise with many scenic attractions and 7km of unspoiled yellow sand beaches.

This is a trip for all kite levels, beginners, who want to learn kiting, but very good for advanced riders, who are stuck with certain tricks. Our package doesn’t include the accommodation as Pranburi is so small that its easy to get to our training base from wherever the guests stay, so they can adjust the hotel to their demands.

SPOT INFO

T

he kite beach has many sand bars for perfect shallow teaching areas. Pak Nam Pran beach is a perfect spot for all levels of kiteboarders, a 7km long stretch of beach completely rock and coral free, with one high and one low tide per day with huge sandbar areas for shallow water teaching and deeper channels for waist depth teaching. On high tide though the north end of the beach disappears, the area in front of the kite center also loses some beach but still more than enough for launching and landing your kite safely. Š 2014 www.kiteboardtour.asia

P

HOW TO GET THERE

ranburi can be reached via Bus, Taxi, Train or Plane from Bangkok. You can catch a taxi from the airport from 1,700 2,200 baht. All trains going south stop at Hua Hin & Pranburi, but the most convenient and comfortable is the second class Special Express Diesel Railcar leaving Bangkok’s Hualumphong Station at 07:45 and arriving in Hua Hin at 11:00.

If you’re in a real hurry or can’t stand the bus ride for 3 to 4 hours then you can catch a 1 hour flight to Hua Hin from Bangkok.

T

VISA

he Thai government allows tourist-visa exemptions for 41 different nationalities, including those from Australia, New Zealand, the USA and most of Europe, to enter the country without a prearranged visa.

For those arriving in the kingdom by air, a 30-day visa is issued without a fee. For those arriving via a land border, the arrival visa is 15 days. © 2014 www.kiteboardtour.asia

HOTELS

W

e stay in the Lakeside Chalets next to the Kite Cable because we included unlimited riding in our package. The rooms at Lakeside chalets are brand new and super nice!

With a view and balcony over the lake you have direct access to the Kite Cable and facilities on your doorstep. The rooms have 2 types, single bed and twin bed, both include a light breakfast in the morning (tea/coffee/toast).

Here is a list of hotels, if your guests want an exclusive or luxury stay: • Evason Hotel Pranburi • Villa Maroc • Praseban Resort • Foresta Boutique Resort • Sheraton Pranburi Villas

OTHER ACTIVITIES

E

scape the crowds and enjoy wide-open beaches near to the stunning Sam Roi Yot National Park. Non kiteboard watersport activities include SUP, sailing, windsurfing and snorkeling, paragliding, wakeboarding, golf, massage. Kayaks can be hired (at a nearby national park) and diving excursions can be arranged. © 2014 www.kiteboardtour.asia

HEALTH

T

he only vaccine required by international regulations is yellow fever. Proof of vaccination will only be required if you have visited a country in the yellow-fever zone within the six days prior to entering Thailand. If you are travelling to Thailand from Africa or South America you should check to see if you require proof of vaccination. Recommended vaccinations Hepatitis A& B, Typhus, Tetanus.

W

WIND CONDITIONS AND CLIMATE

ith 7 months of solid wind and 5 months of possible thermals this is surely Thailand’s windiest and most picturesque kiteboarding beach in the Hua Hin area. The wind is steady from November to May between 12 to 25 knots daily, June to October Pranburi still gets wind but not as consistent as the previous months, we can still teach kiteboarding lessons during this time though. Š 2014 www.kiteboardtour.asia

7. ISHIGAKI/ JAPAN

O

kinawa is Japan’s southern most prefecture and is made up of three major island groups, one of them being the Yaeyama Island chain. This island chain consists of 12 small islands that are located not too far off the coast of Taiwan, which is famous for its wind- and so is Ishigaki. Famous windsurfers come several times a year to train for their competitions. Ideal for us to base out of for our Japanese adventure. Turquoise flat water protected by an outside reef offers best learning conditions for kiteboarding. This trip is for kiteboarders of all levels- several spots, all good for beginners too, are waiting to be discovered. It’s a recommended trip for kiteboarders, that love to discover new places, kite undiscovered beaches and love to discover different cultures.

SPOT INFO

C

ountless islands outside and virgin beaches, which rarely see kiters wait to be discovered. Long white sand beaches, shallow water especially in Kabira Bay, which are our main destinations for kiting. Sandy bottom inside the lagoons, a bit choppy outside the reefs and in between the islands. © 2014 www.kiteboardtour.asia

HOW TO GET THERE Ishigaki has direct flights to/from Tokyo, Nagoya , Osaka and Fukuoka as well as from Taiwan. For Europeans and Australians its worth to combine with a city trip in either one of the Japanese cities or to stop over in Taipei, Singapore or Hong Kong

S

VISA

tays of up to six months are permitted for citizens of Austria, Germany, Ireland, Mexico, Switzerland and the UK. Citizens of the USA, Australia and New Zealand are granted 90-day temporary visitor visas, while stays of up to three months are permitted for citizens of Argentina, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, Finland, France, Iceland, Israel, Italy, the Netherlands, Norway, Singapore, Spain, Sweden and a number of other countries. Š 2014 www.kiteboardtour.asia

HEALTH The only vaccine required by international regulations is yellow fever. Proof of vaccination will only be required if you have visited a country in the yellow-fever zone within the six days prior to entering Southeast Asia. If you are travelling to Southeast Asia from Africa or South America you should check to see if you require proof of vaccination.

HOTELS: You have the choice to stay in 5 Star Club Med or in the Iriwa guesthouse. Both are located on the white sand beach of Kabira Beach.

The package includes accommodation as we tried to get the best deals for Japan for our guests.

Š 2014 www.kiteboardtour.asia

WIND CONDITIONS AND CLIMATE

W

ind blows from November till March side on shore from North-East with constant wind between 18-25 knots. Temperatures during daytime are between 23-26°C, at night time 20°C, water temperature 24°C. With a shorty or 3 mm wetsuit kiteboarding is enjoyable also in “winter time”.

OTHER ACTIVITIES • Ishigaki is famous for its diving and its Mantaray to see

• Snorkelling • Mountain climbing, SUP

© 2014 www.kiteboardtour.asia

Š 2014 www.kiteboardtour.asia