Kta brochure 2015 - 2016

TRAVELER

2015-2016

Š 2015 www.kiteboardtour.asia

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INTRO CALENDAR EQUIPMENT WHO WE ARE KTA TRAVELER HOLIDAYS PRO RIDERS KTA TRAVEL GUIDE

© 2015 www.kiteboardtour.asia

KTA Traveler Are you dreaming of kiting in great winds with warm water and tropical sunshine?

Do you want to improve your riding, learn new moves or give yourself the kiting challenge of a lifetime?

Then join us on an amazing KTA Traveler kite holiday this season and experience our incredible sport in a unique location.

Immerse yourself in the vibrant Asian lifestyles and cultures of this remarkable corner of the world!

its own special twist to add that something extra, so be sure to check out each package before you make your final choice.

You will experience unforgettable kite sessions in the most beautiful places, with a great bunch of likeminded people. Then round it off each day with a chilled beachside beer and perhaps even an amazing sunset or two.

The KTA is one of the world’s top organisers for kite events, competitions and training. Its many years of experience and knowledge of Asia, living the ‘kite life’ means you will be in good hands and your KTA Traveler experience will be an experience of a lifetime.

On each holiday destination you will be joined by experienced Cabrinha Pro Riders who will help you to progress and enjoy kiting at your chosen spot to the max. Each location also has

© 2015 www.kiteboardtour.asia

CALENDAR 2015-2016

31 Aug - 6 Sept 2015 WAVE SPECIAL - Kite & Surf Sumbawa/Indonesia

27 Sept -3 Oct 2015

SAFARI & FOIL- Sri Lanka by Kite

10-16 October 2015

BOARD EXTREME - Kite, Surf, Sup, Longboard & Street Surf in Jhunan/Taiwan

10-16 January 2016

VISAYAS CHALLENGE - Travel the Philippine Islands by Kite

1-7 February 2016

PROGRESSION 101 – Kite Coaching Special in Bintan/Indonesia

5-11 March 2016

JUMP CAMP – Kite & Cable Pranburi/Thailand

11-17 April 2016

KITE & FLY – Hainan Island China

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 © 2015 www.kiteboardtour.asia

Š 2015 www.kiteboardtour.asia

Equipment As kiters, we know that most of you will want to bring your own gear along on holiday with you. No worries with that as each KTA Traveler holiday will have facilities to store, clean and care for your equipment.

Some of our destinations though can also offer you the option of rental, should you wish to travel light, so please check each holiday’s options. Kites and boards for rental at each location are chosen to suit the local conditions.

For specialist packages and activities on offer all the So no need to worry at any point if you have forgotten to required equipment will be available for you either as part pack some vital item or you want to take on a new experience of a coaching package or as rental for your own enjoyment. KTA Traveler will have it covered where ever you go.

Š 2015 www.kiteboardtour.asia

WhO WE ARE All trips are organised by the team of the KTA, who live This season we are also very excited to be joined by some and travel all over Asia to discover locations and to organise of the world’s top Pro Riders and coaches from Cabrinha, the Asian Kiteboard Tour. After 6 years of tour experience, who we have worked with on many levels throughout the helping to develop the sport in Asia, along with running kite years. schools and coaching camps, we know the scene, it’s people and it’s locations pretty well.

As Cabrinha Pro Riders you can imagine, they eat, sleep and breath kiting, so don’t miss this opportunity to hang-out These many years of teaching kiteboarding and event with a top crew and gain from their knowledge and skill. organising, our knowledge of the equipment and the You will be amazed at the progression you will have made additional activities you can try out in each location, by the end of you trip. guarantees that you will get the most out of your chosen holiday. We are kiters first and foremost, so we are sure you will love the locations on offer, as we love to kite at them too. © 2015 www.kiteboardtour.asia

KTA Traveler Holidays

Š 2015 www.kiteboardtour.asia

1. WAVE SPECIAL - KITE & SURF SUMBAWA/INDONESIA 2. SAFARI & FOIL- SRI LANKA BY KITE 3. BOARD EXTREME - KITE, SURF, SUP, LONGBOARD & STREET SURF IN JHUNAN/TAIWAN

4. VISAYAS CHALLENGE - TRAVEL THE PHILIPPINE ISLANDS BY KITE 5. PROGRESSION 101 – KITE COACHING SPECIAL IN BINTAN/INDONESIA 6. JUMP CAMP – KITE & CABLE PRANBURI/THAILAND 7. KITE & FLY – HAINAN ISLAND CHINA FROM THE AIR AND THE SEA © 2015 www.kiteboardtour.asia

Sumbawa is one of the best kept secrets in the surf and kiting community. International surf magazines have hundreds of photos of these clean, glassy waves in their archives without telling anybody where it is. Kite magazines are even more selective about telling all.

But now the secret is out and you can join KTA Traveler to experience some of the most awesome kite wave spots in Asia.

With an inland flight from Bali you reach Sumbawa within 45 minutes, where you will be welcomed by horse & carts, green mountains and lush rice fields on the way to our first kite surf spot at Lakey Beach.

It will be a week full of surfing and kiting, a must do for all who love waves or who want to get into waves. There are two key breaks “Pipe break” if you are looking for big swell and “Nungas” is perfect for learning how to ride your first waves.

WAVE SPECIAL - KITE & SURF SUMBAWA/INDONESIA © 2015 www.kiteboardtour.asia

The whole week will pretty much look like this: surf, kite, sleep, eat and chill with friends and surfers from all over the world.

Not forgetting of course the chance to ride and learn with the Cabrinha Pro Riders

Requirements:

Intermediate riders who can ride solidly upwind, Riders who want to learn to kite in the waves first time, Riders who are experienced in wave riding already

The package includes:

Want to go strapless?

Strapless board tricks not only in flat water, but also in waves will no longer be a problem for you after your week with us in Sumbawa. No worries if you are a newbie to strapless riding or if can do your first turn and jumps already, the Cabrinha Pro Riders will help coach you to your next level remember progression is everything!

Airport shuttle, 7 nights in Lakey Surf House in double rooms incl. breakfast. Intensive coaching in the waves with your Cabrinha Pro Rider, riding locations, learning to get into the waves, 4-5 hour sessions every day depending on wind and tides, videoanalysis, event shirt, 1 week surfboard rental. Please ask if you want to rent latest kite gear from us Additional Equipment Rental/Activity prices: : Surf lessons 15 Euro per hour incl. equipment

Your Pro Rider Host: Reo Stevens Experience: + 20 years From: USA Reo has taken his years of kite flying experience and his wind and wave knowledge to become one of the highest published wave riders in the industry

Price per Person:

995 Euro* Dates: 31 Aug - 6 Sept 2015

Read More:

http://www.kiteboardtour.asia/riders/reo-stevens/ Š 2015 www.kiteboardtour.asia

With more than a dozen cool riding spots, you will be kiting in heaven. Experience uncrowded sessions with winds that blow at an average of 18-20 knots, 24 hours a day for 7 days a week – its paradise for freeriding and long-distance kite sessions.

During your stay you will live in small bungalows facing the kite spot, full board is included. It’s pretty much eat, kite and sleep. Ending each action packed day with amazing nights of stargazing, chilling out with new friends and a beer or two, while getting some top riding tips from your very own Cabrinha Pro Riders.

Our Cabrinha Pro Riders will will also take you through an intensive training programme over the first 4 days, that’s 4 hours a day kiting right in front of your own door including down-winders to introduce you to long-distance kiting. All of this builds you towards your final kite safari and fun race challenges.

SAFARI & FOIL- SRI LANKA BY KITE KALPITIYA/SRI LANKA © 2015 www.kiteboardtour.asia

This is also your opportunity to experience the cutting edge of kiting and try out the latest foil boards, with coaching input from the Cabrinha Pro Riders. All this will set you up nicely for our final fun race challenge, this really is a holiday not to be missed.

Requirements:

Experienced + advanced riders who want to learn more about long-distance kiting, foils and racing.

The package includes: 6 nights in bungalows incl. fullboard, intensive training in small groups with Cabrinha Pro Riders, 4 days a 4 hours workshop foiling and racing,equipment workshops, stories from longdistance experiences and travels around the world of the Cabrinha Pro Riders, 1 day Magic Kitespot Kitesafari and Downwinder, 1 day fun race along the coast, test foil boards and event shirt Additional Equipment Rental/Activity prices: Equipment rental 1 week 400 Euro, Airport shuttle 40 Euro one way

Your Pro Rider Host: Damien Le Roy Experience: + 7 years From: USA You will be in good hands: Last year Damien Le Roy was selected the World Kiteboarder Of The Year and ending up Slalom World Champion.

Read More:

Price per Person:

1175 Euro* Dates: 27 Sept -3 Oct 2015

http://www.kiteboardtour.asia/riders/damien-le-roy/ Š 2015 www.kiteboardtour.asia

Our destination will be Jhunan in Miaoli County, on the NorthWestern Coast of Taiwan. Jhunan Beach is a paradise for outdoor adventure sports lovers and board crazy riders in particular.

Jhunan’s wild coast has many natural qualities that make this place one of the best spots in Taiwan for water sports, not least due to the consistent strong winds that blow the year round.

These consistent winds and challenging conditions attract a strong core of kiteboarders and windsurfers to Miaoli each year.

The local kiteboarders love to go Street SUP’ing on their way to the spot or on those rare days of no wind. If you haven’t tried this before, than here is your chance to experience the feeling of SUP’ing on the street.

BOARD EXTREME - KITE, SURF, SUP, LONGBOARD & STREET SURF JHUNAN/TAIWAN © 2015 www.kiteboardtour.asia

Come and join them and take on an amazing board sports week, both land and water with KTA Traveler and the Cabrinha Pro Riders. There is bound to be something new you have not tried before, so give yourself a challenge and rack up those board skills.

You will stay directly on location at beach shacks that are only 3 minutes’ walk from the ocean.

Requirements:

All skill levels welcome, it’s a board sport holiday for everyone.

The package includes:

Airport shuttle, 7 nights in a double room, incl. breakfast. 5 hours of kite coaching, Equipment seminar included and repair workshop.

3 hours surf clinic, 2 hours SUP Wave clinic and a 2 hours Longboard/Street surf clinic. You can also try out our guided trip along the coast by Street SUP.

Additional Equipment Rental/Activity prices: Kitesurf 80 Euro/day, Windsurf 70 Euro/day, Surf 15 Euro/day, SUP 30 Euro/day

Your Pro Rider Host: Nick Jacobsen Experience: 10 years From: Denmark Nick reached the final of the Red Bull King of the Air and displayed a unique riding style.

He is now looking forward to meeting you and sharing his knowledge and experiences with you.

Price per Person:

1100 Euro* Dates: 10-16 October 2015

Read More:

http://www.kiteboardtour.asia/riders/nick-jacobsen/ Š 2015 www.kiteboardtour.asia

The Visayas Challenge, it’s the kite adventure of a lifetime and a totally different way to discover the stunning islands of the Philippines.

This is your chance to experience open-ocean kiting at its best and all supported throughout by the KTA Traveler safety team. The distance you kite each day does depend on the wind, but you can expect to travel an average distance of between 50-100 km a day. You will be kiting along the beautiful coastlines of Romblon Province in the central Visayas region of the Philippines, passing deserted islands and sandbanks, being created by the friendly people’s that live along the coast. It is quite a buzz when the local school you are passing empties and the school kids run along the beach to cheer you on your way.

As well as the distance challenge, there will be opportunities to discover and explore the places we stop at or you can just enjoy a freeride session in a place no one has kited before.

Your luggage will be shuttled by us each day to the next stopping point for you.

While our rescue boat will follow you throughout the journey to ensure you won’t get lost and that you always have a helping hand nearby if you should need it.

VISAYAS CHALLENGE - TRAVEL THE PHILIPPINE ISLANDS BY KITE © 2015 www.kiteboardtour.asia

The journey will take you from the beautiful Sibuyan Island to the old world Spanish charm of the provinces capital Romblon. From taking in the sights and sounds at Romblon you will then kite onto the Alads and Cobrador Islands before reaching the largest of your island stops Tablas. Carabao and the kite mad island of Boracay wraps up the Visayas Challenge, where we will celebrate your successful trip with one of Asia’s most stunning sunsets from the world famous White Beach. In all it’s a 300 Km challenge, so get ready and train for this one.

Requirements:

Experience and advanced riders

The package includes: 7 nights’ accommodation with breakfast and dinner, Shuttle service for the luggage and rescue service boat /shuttle. Waterfall trip at Sibuyan in the Nationalpark, Firefly tour in Magdiwang incl. Floating Restaurant. Bonfirenight and BBQ, ‘Finisher Night’ on Boracay, Event Shirt Additional Equipment Rental/Activity prices: Weekly rental of latest kite gear 290 Euro

Your Pro Rider Host: Bjorn Rune Jensen Experience: + 30 years in watersports From: Denmark Red Bull Coast to Coast Champion . At the age of 14 Bjorn got a windsurfer and was instantly hooked on racing. During the last 30 years on the water he has literally tried it all

Read More:

Price per Person:

1050 Euro* Dates: 10-16 January 2016

http://www.kiteboardtour.asia/riders/bjorn-rune-jensen/ © 2015 www.kiteboardtour.asia

Bintan, a dream come true, provided one of the big surprises over the past 2 years for the KTA. We loved the hospitality and fell in love with the spot, especially its great kiting.

Little known for its kiting scene the Indonesian island that sits close to Singapore provided great conditions, good winds, fantastic hosts and a great experience for riders, so we really want to share this location with you.

We will coach you at Trikora Beach, which has two key riding location.

The first is a spot with very flat and clean water, no waves and little current. This makes it one of the best places in the world to learn kiteboarding and progress your freestyle tricks. The flat water location is the satellite to the main Trikora Beach which itself is right outside your bungalow style accommodation. Riding here offers a nice mix of conditions for best freeriding sessions. Kickers and small waves will add that extra buzz to your kiting experience in Bintan.

PROGRESSION 101 KITE COACHING SPECIAL BINTAN/INDONESIA Š 2015 www.kiteboardtour.asia

Progression 101 comes armed with two of Cabrinha Pro Riders who have countless years’ experience is coaching at all levels and will be 100% focused on progressing your skills to the next level. You will also experience the most amazing downwinder, kiting with the KTA Travler Team along the beautiful coast inside beautiful waist deep lagoons and over some very neat wave sections.

The more adventurous of you might even like to join us on a little island hopping excursion to the Nikoi Islands that sit just a few kilometres off the Trikora Beach.

Requirements:

All skill levels welcome, it’s a board sport holiday for everyone.

The package includes:

Shuttle return from the ferry to the hotel, 7 nights accommodation in deluxe room twin or double sharing, intensive training in small groups with experienced Instructors and proriders 7 days a 4hours, event shirt, SUP downwinder: Suptour to a local fishermenvillage on stilts and introduction into local fishing methods and accompanying of the local fishermen with their work.

Additional Equipment Rental/Activity prices: Gear rental Kitesurf 1 week: 350 Euro

Your Pro Rider Hosts: Christian Harris & Karine Nativel

Price per Person:

1050 Euro* Read More:

Dates: 1-7 February 2016

http://www.kiteboardtour.asia/riders/christian-harris/ http://www.kiteboardtour.asia/riders/karine-nativel/ Š 2015 www.kiteboardtour.asia

Want to improve your jumping skills in Kiting and wakeboarding? Then you are at the right place. KTA Traveler is offering you a unique kite & cable teaching experience with our Cabrinha Pro Riders and the KTA at the KTA’s very own Kite Cable park in Thailand.

It’s guaranteed you will be adding tricks to your list in no time.

No matter what the wind and weather is doing you will be out on the water dialling in those new moves under the watchful eye of you pro-rider coach, who will be making use of the latest Bluetooth technology to communicate directly to you, helping you to learn even faster.

With daily sessions on the Kite Cable your air and obstacle riding will improve in leaps and bounds, taking your kiting to the next level. The kiting spot is only 10 minutes away from the Kite Cable, where you will enjoy one of those famous Thai beaches and ideal riding conditions at Pak Nam Pran.

As a final ‘kick in the tail’ don’t miss the chance to night ride the cable under the parks floodlights, before finally kicking back at the island bar, while others show off what they can do.

JUMP CAMP – KITE & CABLE PRANBURI/THAILAND © 2015 www.kiteboardtour.asia

Although this package is a Jump Camp the holiday is also perfect for people wanting to learn to kite for the first time, so time to get your partner out on the water too. Our kite instructors will introduce you step by step to all the skills to handle your kite safely and the Kite Cable will make those first board starts a complete pleasure to learn.

Requirements:

Beginners, intermediate and advanced who want to learn jumps from back-rolls to raileys, s-bends and handle passes. Plus sliders and kickers, this really is your chance to hit the lot!

The package includes:

7 nights at the Kite Cable Lakeside Chalets. 7 days unlimited riding on the Kite Cable. 10% off for all drinks and food in the island bar and 10% from all other activities. Training in small groups with experienced Instructors and your Cabrinha Pro-rider.

BBQ night and event shirt

Additional Equipment Rental/Activity prices: Mountain biking, downhill and pump-track, Paragliding tandem flights, Introduction to paragliding/ground handling and your first step to flying alone. Yoga classes

Your Pro Rider Host: Alberto Rondina Experience: PKRA Word Tour Rider From: Italy Alby loves kiting at any spot which boasts nice kickers and enjoys sharing his passion with others.

Price per Person:

990 Euro* Dates: 5-11 March 2016

Read More:

http://www.kiteboardtour.asia/riders/alberto-rondina/ Š 2015 www.kiteboardtour.asia

For the final KTA Traveler of the season, we are inviting you to join some of our top home grown KTA Pro Riders in China on the tropical island of Hainan.

Hainan Island offers the perfect environment for you to join our KTA progression kite jam week and improve your riding skills in which ever field of riding you enjoy most. It’s also the time to try out something different if it takes your fancy. Get to grips with a new challenge be that raceboard, TT racing, skim or foil. Our KTA Pro Riders will be there to coach and support you.

Boao has wind from October until June, averaging 20 - 25 knots, with long clean, uncrowded beaches providing plenty of room to ride and train. The location is also perfect for beginners to make their start into kiteboarding, from your first kite exercise to progression onto the board. The Asia Bay Resort which will be hosting your KTA Traveler holiday and is also family friendly, so this could be the ideal holiday if you are a mixed family group.

During the week our KTA Pro Riders will also take you on an upwind kite to the perfect flat water spot on the Wan Quan River. And if that’s not enough to fill your days then KTA Traveler will give you the chance to live the dream to fly?

As part of this vacation we are offering free intro paramotor lessons to all and the chance to see Boao from above.

KITE & FLY – HAINAN ISLAND CHINA FROM THE AIR AND THE SEA © 2015 www.kiteboardtour.asia

Then in the evening you can enjoy a cold Tsing Tao beer and great food at the coolest beach bar in China. Alternatively you may choose to go for a traditional Chinese massage or chill on the beach. Come and experience China with us and kite on the best spots it has to offer.

Requirements:

Beginners wishing to learn to kite, advanced riders who wish to progress in freestyle with one of the KTA Pro Riders

The package includes:

Airport Pickup, 3 day kite course for beginners with equipment rental for the duration of the vacation and for advanced riders we offer coaching from the Cabrinha Pro Riders 4 – 5 hours a day. Paramotor lessons on no wind days.

Additional Equipment Rental/Activity prices: Beginner’s kiteboarding course (includes all equipment hire), Tandem Paramotor flight around Boao 70 USD, Kiteboard equipment may also be hired from the local kite school if you wish to travel light please mail us what you would like to hire and we will give you a package price deal. ( Your Pro Rider Hosts: Aya Oshima & Louice C. Fernando Bong

Price per Person:

790 Euro* Read More:

Dates: 11-17 April 2016

http://www.kiteboardtour.asia/riders/aya-oshima/ http://www.kiteboardtour.asia/riders/louie-c-fernando/ © 2015 www.kiteboardtour.asia

REO STEVENS DAMIEN LE ROY NICK JACOBSEN BJORN RUNE JENSEN CHRISTIAN HARRIS KARINE NATIVEL ALBERTO RONDINA AYA-OSHIMA LOUIE C. FERNANDO (BONG) © 2015 www.kiteboardtour.asia

Your Pro Rider Hosts

Š 2015 www.kiteboardtour.asia

From: USA Reo was born and raised on the North Shore of Oahu, Hawaii. Growing up in such a surf mecca, it was only natural that he started surfing at a young age. At age 8, he was already getting tired of the crowded surf breaks of the North Shore and changed directions by following the steps of his parents to escape the crowd and picked up his first windsurfer. This opened the door for Reo into the windsports world.

In 1999, Reo 13 at the time, caught his first glimpse of the brand new sport of kiteboarding.

REO STEVENS

Today Reo has taken his years of kite flying experience and his wind and wave knowledge to become one of the highest published wave riders in the industry. He’s also managed all of this while attending The University of Hawaii full time (with an odd semester off) working towards a BA in Economics. http://www.kiteboardtour.asia/riders/reo-stevens/

Š 2015 www.kiteboardtour.asia

From: USA Damien’s kiting carrier took him to places like, Israel, Australia, Greece, all over Europe, Honduras, Brazil, most islands in the Caribbean and many more. In the past 7 years he has been on the podium in many different disciplines in our sport from freestyle to course racing to speed and slalom racing. Last year was selected the World Kiteboarder Of The Year and ending up Slalom World Champion.

DAMIEN LE ROY

After finishing 3rd at the Speed World Championships, he was informed that was again nominated for Kiteboarder Of The Year. His path in life he is on could get any more amazing. He was also Redbull King of the Air overall Champion.

Damien takes life one-step at a time and enjoys every session in every location.

http://www.kiteboardtour.asia/riders/damien-le-roy/ Š 2015 www.kiteboardtour.asia

From: Denmark There’s one thing you can expect from Nick Jacobsen, and that’s that you never know what to expect when he turns up and gets his kite in the air.

Last year, and the year before, he was one of the only riders who opted to use foot straps instead of full wakeboard bindings, resulting in his all-new mega loop one footers being not only as big and powerful as the other riders’ loops, but they were also a fresh take on the epic trick.

He has shown that Red Bull King of the Air is totally open to interpretation and inspiration through his never say die attitude and totally out of the box approach.

NICK JACOBSEN

Nick reached the final of the Red Bull King of the Air and displayed a unique riding style. He is now looking forward to meeting you and sharing his knowledge and experiences with you. http://www.kiteboardtour.asia/riders/nick-jacobsen/

© 2015 www.kiteboardtour.asia

From: Denmark Bjorn was there from the beginning in kite racing and became World Champion in the Master class. He is now enjoying the foil class and is out on the water almost every in Denmark, in usual winds of 6-12 knots. Foil boarding is much less physical and more tactical and he is looking forward to another 30 years on the water!

Bjorn stormed the Red Bull Coast 2 Coast, a long distance kiteboarding race between Germany and Denmark. Up to 350 kiteboarders from 13 nations participated in the twoway 40-kilometer marathon, which connects Fehmarn, in German soil, to Lalandia, in Denmark.

BJORN RUNE JENSEN

He completed the Red Bull Coast 2 Coast in one hour and six minutes and was on the podium once again and is now looking forward to sharing his experiences and knowledge with you. http://www.kiteboardtour.asia/riders/bjorn-rune-jensen/ Š 2015 www.kiteboardtour.asia

From: UK Christian loved to be in water since early age and he always wanted to be a surfer. This proved to be problematic for a young boy growing up on a farm in Central England but he achieved his dream.

Christian now works with Karine as Cabrinha’s European based coaching team, CK Performance Clinics, mixing and evolving their subtle blend of coaching experience, teaching knowledge, along with the obvious male/female differences and formidable Anglo-Franco alliance. Together they have become one of the leading authorities on intermediate and advanced kitesurf coaching.

CHRISTIAN HARRIS

So if you fancy a full on week of energy, enthusiasm, knowledge, coaching, progression and fun, whilst squeezing in a year’s worth of learning amongst a killer group of motivated people - indulge yourself in one of their unique clinics. http://www.kiteboardtour.asia/riders/christian-harris/

© 2015 www.kiteboardtour.asia

From: France Karine’s passion for board sports ignited from snowboarding during her teenage years. Never one to sit still, a chance encounter in the warm waters of Margarita introduced Karine to the thrills and excitement of kitesurfing. Originally from France, Karine obviously loves food, Baudelaire, wine, rugby and surfing.

Today Karine blends her understanding of pedagogy, coaching and her smooth, stylish ability on the water as one half of Cabrinha’s European based coaching team, CK Performance Clinics. Mixing her skills with Christian’s experience, along with the obvious male/female differences and the formidable Anglo-Franco alliance. Together they have become one of the leading authorities on intermediate and advanced kitesurf coaching.

KARINE NATIVEL

Since 2003 they offer their guests a truly unique style and complete method of learning and improving during their clinics at various windy spots throughout the year and around the globe.

They have a growing bible of “homework” with over 130 variations of moves, regularly nudging kiters along with their popular technique articles in www.iksurfmag.com

http://www.kiteboardtour.asia/riders/karine-nativel/ © 2015 www.kiteboardtour.asia

From: Italy Originally a windsurfer Alberto started kiting with his dad in Italy because the wind was very light at the local spot near his home. After competing nationally and winning the Italian championships he then decided to join the protour to compare himself with the best riders in the world.

With the PKRA Pro-tour passing through Italy, Alberto was able to join his first tour in Sicily, coming 9th overall in his first ever world-class event. Stoked with this result, he was encouraged to compete in more events before eventually joining every tour stop and finished 8th Overall in 2009.

ALBERTO RONDINA

Since then he has developed his own style and became more and more consistent, progressing seamlessly to 5th place in 2010 and is now currently working his way to a place on the podium this year. Alberto is very discrete and a very appreciated personality on tour, always smiling and showing kindness to everyone. http://www.kiteboardtour.asia/riders/alberto-rondina/

Š 2015 www.kiteboardtour.asia

From: Japan Born and raised in the middle of Japan, she became interested in kiteboarding after the first kite lessons in Nagoya. She started competing in 2007 locally and from 2009 she take part in international competitions.

In 2011 she won her first Asian Freestyle Champion title on the KTA tour and in 2012 was awarded both Racing and Freestyle Asian Champion titles.

Aya now coaches advanced riders and complete beginners in Sri Lanka which is well known for good wind and flat water

AYA-OSHIMA

“It is so fun to live in Sri Lanka with nice people around and the wind almost all year round. Kiteboarding is growing more and more popular in Asia and I would like to promote the sport in the region. As 3 times Asian Champion I really love to share my knowledge with others on the water.” http://www.kiteboardtour.asia/riders/aya-oshima/ © 2015 www.kiteboardtour.asia

From: Philippines Louie (nicknamed “Bong”) lives on Boracay Island in the Philippines and competes on the KTA Asian Tour, in both the TT and Formula race classes and is a regular podium face in the National Philippines Series He is just amazing on a raceboard, qualifying for the last 3 world championship finals. He is looking forward to coaching you on your holiday.

Bong loves to play the guitar and will make sure that the evenings sitting on the beach will be evenings to remember. We can not imagine a better KTA Pro Rider for this vacation as his love for coaching will take your skills to a new level.

LOUIE C. FERNANDO (BONG)

He loves traveling around Asia and finding new kite spots.

One of his big passions is racing on a raceboard or doing long distance kite safaris.

He best accomplishment on the KTA Asian Tour was 3rd place in the raceboard class. http://www.kiteboardtour.asia/riders/louie-c-fernando/

© 2015 www.kiteboardtour.asia

THE NEW WORD IN DIGITAL MEDIA

Share your KTA Traveler adventure • Become part of the Cloudstringers Community and share, store and exchange your photo and video experiences • The Cloudstringers platform can be used as a one-stop upload point that then allows you to direct to your favorite social media sites • You can even join the Cloudstringers market place and sell your top shots to the world’s media

Join Today It’s Completely FREE

https://www.cloudstringers.com/everyone_registration © 2015 www.kiteboardtour.asia

SUMBAWA/INDONESIA KALPITIYA/SRI LANKA JHUNAN/TAIWAN VISAYAS/PHILIPPINES BINTAN/INDONESIA PRANBURI/THAILAND HAINAN/CHINA

© 2015 www.kiteboardtour.asia

KTA TRAVEL GUIDE

© 2015 www.kiteboardtour.asia

KTA Traveler Travel Guide

Locations, Climate, Visa and Travel Information

If there are any questions please email to: traveler@kiteboardtour.asia This guide will help you to gain a general impression of the KTA Traveler locations, their climates, wind conditions, visa requirements and health information. It is not a comprehensive guide to any country or current situation. Please always check for the latest travel information before you travel and email KTA Traveler if you have any concerns.

The hotels are included in the package for each destination. We have chosen these carefully, based on their location. You will be pleasantly surprised at the hotel choices we have made for you and will just love the vibe around the hotel and the kite location.

Š 2015 www.kiteboardtour.asia

Book on any KTA Traveler holiday and be in with a chance to win a new Cabrinha FX Kite The all new Cabrinha FX kite effortlessly bridges the gap between freestyle and freeride to create the perfect crossover kite. The new three strut, highly responsive kite gives riders the much needed power for explosive acceleration and the perfect amount of boost for huge lofty airs.

A winner’s draw will be made on each KTA Traveler holiday by your Cabrinha Pro Rider host and one lucky rider on each trip will go home with more than just great memories.

The winner may choose any size kite in the range.

Š 2015 www.kiteboardtour.asia

If it’s waves you’re after, look no further. Come to Sumbawa between August 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. With KTA Traveler however, you will find our locations easy to kite from and you will be riding on breaks that will keep you happy and entertained for weeks on end.

We have chosen this location for the great choice of wave spots and verity of breaks, that allow both beginners and advance riders to gain the most out of their trip with us.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

SUMBAWA/INDONESIA

© 2015 www.kiteboardtour.asia

The 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 at the Lakey Surf House with Breakfast, Airport Transfer, Event Shirt and your coaching sessions with Reo Stevens.

HOW TO GET THERE Sumbawa can be a challenge to travel to, but the best way is to fly into Denpsar 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. which is why we have included the airport transfer for you, to elimate the stress of trying to do this yourself.

SPOT INFO Lakey 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, Nugas is the best location for wave riders to progress.

When winds are from the East (Lakey and Nungas then have offshore winds), Nangadoro is also a good option. It gets more swells than Nungas and even Lakey, so it is suitable for experienced wave riders only for experienced wave riders only, due to its shallow reef. For more relaxed conditions, head to Jalla (13km north of Lakey). You will find flat-water conditions, excellent for freeriding.

Š 2015 www.kiteboardtour.asia

WIND CONDITIONS AND CLIMATE Although 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 (8184°F), so shorts and lycras are all you need. Kite sizes ranges between 9-12m.

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 Indonesia. If you are travelling to Indonesia from Africa or South America you should check to see if you require proof of vaccination.

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 © 2015 www.kiteboardtour.asia

Hotels For more information about the hotel and for photos please visit KTA Traveler Website: http://kiteboardtour.asia/traveler/ Or contact us for more information at traveler@kiteboardtour.asia

Costs

Book on any KTA Traveler holiday and be in with a chance to win a new Cabrinha FX Kite See pg. 39

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. Local transportation costs to get around the place are very reasonable and trikes and busses are everywhere. 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 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. Š 2015 www.kiteboardtour.asia

Sri 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 Safari and Foil as an all inclusive trip Requirements: Safari and Foil is for people who experienced kiteboarders, can safely go upwind and are looking to explore the challenges of long distance kiting.

HOW TO GET THERE

KALPITIYA / SRI LANKA

Kalpitiya 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 but for your convenience we have included the Airport Transfere in the package.

The driver will meet you at the airport and take you directly to the hotel we have chosen for this location, where you will meet the KTA Team, Pro Riders and other Kiters.

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Visa New 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.

SPOT INFO Alankuda 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.

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WIND CONDITIONS AND CLIMATE The 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 rain-

fall and stormy conditions mean that your idyllic beach plans are best made elsewhere. Rainfall is at its highest between June and August, although August is often an exception with much lower rainfall. For the Safari and Foil we will be able to provide you with some equipment rental choices. Most flown sizes will be 9-11m kites.

Other Activities For 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 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. © 2015 www.kiteboardtour.asia

Hotels Kalpitiya is relatively under developed for tourism. We decided for our Safari and Foil vacation 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. You will enjoy the choice we have made for you here and all the rooms are lagoon facing.

For more information about the hotel and for photos please visit KTA Traveler Website: http://kiteboardtour.asia/traveler/ Or contact us for more information at traveler@kiteboardtour.asia

Eat & Drink Food 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.

Book on any KTA Traveler holiday and be in with a chance to win a new Cabrinha FX Kite See pg. 39

Health All 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 © 2015 www.kiteboardtour.asia

Taiwan remains largely undiscovered and seriously underrated by Western travellers, but those that make it here are in for a real treat.

Taiwan offers an eclectic mix of Chinese, Western, Japanese and indigenous influences. It has sensational food, traditional Chinese and aboriginal festivals and exuberant temples, yet the biggest surprise is Taiwan’s hinterland: think towering mountains, eight national parks, a selection of alluring offshore islands and numerous hot-spring resorts.

One of the most endearing things about the island is the overwhelming friendliness of its people – Taiwan is a warm hearted and welcoming country and you are bound to encounter numerous acts of generosity or kindness throughout your travels, whether it’s a taxi driver rounding down a fare, a stranger helping with directions or a family providing a bed for the night.

HOW TO GET THERE JHUNAN/TAIWAN

Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport can be reached from most places with some direct flights now being offered to Europe.

If there are no direct flights available from your country than we would suggest a transit stop in Hong Kong or Singapore, as they offer transit visas. We will arrange your airport pickup to the accommodation for you.

© 2015 www.kiteboardtour.asia

Costs Taiwan is significantly cheaper than Japan, and somewhat cheaper than China.

For a traveler on a bare bones budget, NT$1000 will get you by for a day, but you’ll probably want to double that for comfort. A meal at a street stall may cost TWD50 or less, a meal at a Western fast food restaurant will run you about NT$150 and at the fanciest restaurants, you can expect a bill in excess TWD1000. On the high end of the spectrum, hotel rooms at a swanky hotel might cost TWD5000 or more.

SPOT INFO The Kite Season in Taiwan is nearly all year round with so many spots to choose from and pumping winds. We kite in Jhunan, located in Miaoli County which is on the North-West Coast of Taiwan.

The location definitely has it all, with a nice wave spot just in front of your accommodation and a perfect flat water sport 2 KM downwind. If you have been here once, you will understand why all watersports enthusiasts and like-minded people love Taiwan for the amazing wind and beautiful scenery. Š 2015 www.kiteboardtour.asia

WIND CONDITIONS AND CLIMATE Taiwan is one of those lucky places that has wind nearly all year round and this time of the year you can expect an average of 22 – 25 knots. The temperature is still a warm 24 –

27 degrees. You may wish to bring a jumper as the evenings can feel a little fresh.

Health Make sure you are up-to-date on routine vaccines before your trip. These vaccines include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis vaccine, varicella (chickenpox) vaccine, polio vaccine, and Hepatitis A.

Book on any KTA Traveler holiday and be in with a chance to win a new Cabrinha FX Kite See pg. 39

Visa Taiwan is one of the most convenient places in Asia for obtaining a visa. All European citizens receive a 90 day visa on arrival with many more countries on the list. Please contact us if you are not sure about which countries are permitted for the visa on arrival. © 2015 www.kiteboardtour.asia

Hotels

We have chosen accommodation located directly on the Kite Spot for convenience. We will all meet in the morning for breakfast and then head to the beach to start your coaching sessions or experience one of the other activities on offer.

For more information about the hotel and for photos please visit KTA Traveler Website: http://kiteboardtour.asia/traveler/ Or contact us for more information at traveler@kiteboardtour.asia

Food The word ‘fusion’ gets thrown around a lot in culinary circles - whenever someone combines a donut with a croissant it’s dubbed fusion - but the Taiwanese really know what it’s all about. The Portuguese, Dutch, Spanish, Japanese and Chinese have all landed here at one point or another, and their foods combined with local flavours to create a true hybrid cuisine. As a result, many of Taiwan’s dishes will be faintly familiar to anyone who’s eaten a Chinese dumpling or scarfed down some sushi.

Taiwan also has remarkably good bakery items. Most specialize in sweet Taiwanese pastries or Western pastries adjusted to local tastes, but look out for We Care bakeries which also offer Western options such as whole wheat loaves, sour breads and ciabatta.

Vegetarians are better catered for in restaurants and variety than in most other countries. © 2015 www.kiteboardtour.asia

‘It’s More Fun in the Philippines’ as the Tourism slogan for the country goes, but you know what, they are not wrong. Made up of over 7,000 islands the Philippines is place to be seen from the sea. So join us and do just that on the Visayas Challenge. Romblon province is surrounded by sparkling turquoise waters, situated in the Sibuyan Sea and provides your destination in the Visayas, where you will visit each of its major island communities on Romblon, Tablas and Sibuyan as you kite your way through the region.

The Philippines currency is the Peso (PHP) and life in general throughout the islands is pretty affordable. Check out the family-style dining places, simple grilleries, “carinderias”, cafeterias and food court stalls along the way, as well as the sights and sounds of your journey.

There are two official languages Tagalog and English, so no matter where you go it will be easy to be understood. Plus, Filipino’s are amongst the friendliest people you will meet in Asia, so don’t be shy to smile and say hello.

VISAYAS/PHILIPPINES

© 2015 www.kiteboardtour.asia

The Philippines is a country of diversity, style, culture and tradition, but firmly moving forward to the future. So amongst the jeepneys, tricycles and bancas, you will find your 3g connection will work just about anywhere

HOW TO GET THERE There are two Airports close to Boracay, Caticlan and Kalibo. You will always have to take a short Boat ride from Caticlan Jetty Port to Boracay, which takes about 20 minutes. For both airports a arrange shuttle service to the your accommodation can be arranged.

Kalibo is 1 ½ hours from Caticlan by bus, where the boat leaves to Boracay Island. We will be leaving by boat to the starting point in Sibuyan from Boracay Island.

SPOT INFO The distance is dependent on the wind and we will kite between 50-100 km per day. We will be kiting with sideshore winds and downwind. We kite along the beautiful coast of Romblon, Tablas Island and will pass deserted islands and sandbanks Š 2015 www.kiteboardtour.asia

WIND CONDITIONS AND CLIMATE The winds come from the northeast, with wind speeds between 20 – 30 knots. October to March, 25 – 32 °C, Hot and humid, Northeasterly to Easterly winds, little rainfall,

water temperature never drops below 25 degrees, Lycra or shorty’s are recommended as a sun protection. Most kite sizes used are 9 and 12 Meter kites.

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 yellowfever 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.

Visa Citizens 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. However, you may well be asked for proof of an exit or onward ticket upon arrival in the country. © 2015 www.kiteboardtour.asia

Hotels Accommodation is included in the trip. We stay in small bungalow resorts on the way.

Wifi is available most of the time but cannot be guaranteed on the smaller Islands.

For more information about the hotel and for photos please visit KTA Traveler Website: http://kiteboardtour.asia/traveler/ Or contact us for more information at traveler@kiteboardtour.asia

Book on any KTA Traveler holiday and be in with a chance to win a new Cabrinha FX Kite See pg. 39

Bintan Progression 101 is a pure progression camp for all levels of kiters. Accomodation at the Trikora Beach Club is included in this trip. For more information please visit KTA Traveler Website: http://kiteboardtour.asia/traveler/

Other Activities Massage, Diving, Cliff diving, Stand Up Paddle, Snorkeling, Caving, Waterfalls, Carabao riding (waterbuffalo) Š 2015 www.kiteboardtour.asia

Bintan is truly a unique paradise. Simple life, beautiful beaches, friendly people which smile all day long. The island gives the refreshment to mind and body and offers endless lagoons for kiteboarders that love to kite on tropical shallow lagoons and long exploration downwinders. Tanjung Pinang, Kijang, Kawal, Trikora Beach, Senggarang, Tanjung Uban and Lagoi / Bintan Resort sites, are places that should not be missed when you are on Bintan.

Tikora beach is still a hidden tropical paradise and ideal for kiteboarding and other the types of water-based activities due to the shallow waters and calm waves. The beach extends to about 25km to the end with absolutely breathtaking view, is covered with white sand. Thousands of coconut palms and mangrove trees add a relaxig atmosphere to the place.

SPOT INFO Endless shallow lagoons and good winds for beginners- constant

BINTAN/ INDONESIA

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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.

HOW TO GET THERE Best 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 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. We will arrange your transfer from the Bintan Ferry Terminal to the Hotel. Š 2015 www.kiteboardtour.asia

WIND CONDITIONS AND CLIMATE Bintan 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.

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 Indonesia. If you are travelling to Indonesia from Africa or South America you should check to see if you require proof of vaccination.

Visa

Book on any KTA Traveler holiday and be in with a chance to win a new Cabrinha FX Kite See pg. 39

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. © 2015 www.kiteboardtour.asia

Hotels You will stay in a tropical garden by the beach at the Trikora Beach Resort.

For this vacation we have chosen the Trikora Beach Club Hotel, for its convenient location right on the kiting spot and super relaxed atmosphere.

For more information about the hotel and for photos please visit KTA Traveler Website: http://kiteboardtour.asia/traveler/ Or contact us for more information at traveler@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. Local transportation costs to get around the place are very reasonable and trikes and busses are everywhere. 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. Š 2015 www.kiteboardtour.asia

Over 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.

PRANBURI/THAILAND

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HOW TO GET THERE Pranburi 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.

SPOT INFO The kite beach has many sand bars for perfect shallow teaching areas. Pak Nam Pran beach is a perfect spot for all levels of kiteboard- ers, a 7km long stretch of beach completely rock and coral free, with one high and one low tide per day. On high tide though the north end of the beach disappears, the area in front of the kite center is not so affected by the tide, with still more than enough room for launching and landing your kite safely, which is why we chose this location.

© 2015 www.kiteboardtour.asia

WIND CONDITIONS AND CLIMATE With 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.

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-fe- ver 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 vac- cination. Recommended vaccinations Hepatitis A& B, Typhus, Tetanus.

Visa The 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. Š 2015 www.kiteboardtour.asia

Hotels We 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). will provide a shuttle service between the Kite Cable and the beach, so you can easily change your activities during your stay.

Book on any KTA Traveler holiday and be in with a chance to win a new Cabrinha FX Kite See pg. 39

For more information about the hotel and for photos please visit KTA Traveler Website: http://kiteboardtour.asia/traveler/ Or contact us for more information at traveler@kiteboardtour.asia

Other Activities Escape 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. Š 2015 www.kiteboardtour.asia

Hainan is named the “Hawaii of China” with it’s tropical climate and long white deserted beaches. It’s an amazing location for constant wind and many kite spots, flat water and a great vibe throughout Boao Town. It’s a nice destination if you want to experience China for the first time and if you are interested in its culture, food and people too.

This trip is perfect for all levels- pure beginners starting from zero, but also for advanced riders who want to progress fast with our Pro Riders.

Boao 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.

HAINAN/CHINA

© 2015 www.kiteboardtour.asia

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.

HOW TO GET THERE Boao is just over an hour from Haikou and about two hours from Sanya Airport. We recommend flying into Haikou Airport, from which we will arrange your free transfer to Asia Bay Resort. The airport has international flights from HongKong, Bangkok and Singapore and domestic flights from all over China, which makes it a very convenient arrival destination.

Visa Hainan 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 but you must check with your airline if they recognise the Visa on arrival and will let you board the flight.

SPOT INFO Kite Season is from October until February and March until June. We kite at the beachfront of Asia Bay Hotel, hosted by the Kitesurf China Kiteschool. During this season there are little or no waves which makes it a great location for learning. There is a flat-water river spot 3 KM upwind and some nice spots to go and explore downwind. Boao offers so much variety and a relaxed atmosphere, which is why riders choose to come back over and over again. Š 2015 www.kiteboardtour.asia

WIND CONDITIONS AND CLIMATE Hainan 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 loca-

tion 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.

Health No 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. © 2015 www.kiteboardtour.asia

Hotels Asia Bay Resort, which is included in the package, is a family friendly 5 Star Beach Resort. Featuring its newly built Waterpark and Watersports center, makes this a true family resort, with many activities for the everyone to enjoy.

Asia Bay Hotel room’s incl. breakfast buffet, high quality room facilities, including satellite/ cable TV, separate shower and tub, balcony/ terrace, with a seaview to help you recharge after a long day of fun.

For more information about the hotel and for photos please visit KTA Traveler Website: http://kiteboardtour.asia/traveler/

Book on any KTA Traveler holiday and be in with a chance to win a new Cabrinha FX Kite See pg. 39

Or contact us for more information at traveler@kiteboardtour.asia

Other Activities Jetski Hire, Kayak, SUP Trips, Surfboards, Paramotor Tandem Flights and many many more activities are available at our host location Kitesurf China. Also visits of the temple and the nearby Miao Villages in the mountains are highly recommended.

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TRAVELER 2015-2016

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