Cultural encounters

Cultural encounters, every step of the way

To make sure you truly immerse yourself in your chosen destination we pack every single one of our tours with authentic cultural experiences. We’ve highlighted our favourite ones on each tour page in the ‘Experiences You’ll Love’ box; but for now, here are just a few examples of what you can look forward to…

TREKKING IN SAPA

Hike through the lush rice paddies surrounding Sapa on a route that showcases the area’s very best views, and stop at ethnic minority villages so you can spend time with the friendly communities. Immerse yourself in this stunning region on Vietnam Trails (page 50).

WITNESS TAKBAT

Witness the ceremony of Takbat in Laos, a daily ritual in which the saffron-robed monks of Luang Prabang's monasteries collect alms from devout locals who line the streets.

ORANGUTAN RESCUE

Experience the privilege of seeing orangutans in their natural habitat on a visit to one of Borneo's crucial eco-reserves, where rescued orangutans are taught to survive in the wild.

ASIAN COOKERY CLASSES

Get an authentic taste of Southeast Asia in a hands-on cookery class. Master the art of a Thai or Vietnamese dish, and be sure to note down the recipe for later!

VISIT AN IBAN LONGHOUSE

Travel deep into the Bornean rainforest to visit a community of the island’s native Iban people. You’ll be welcomed into a traditional longhouse to enjoy dancing and lunch on Iban cuisine. This is featured on our Best of Borneo itinerary (page 54).

WILD ELEPHANT SAFARI

Head into the heart of the Kui Buri forest, one of the few places in Thailand you can still see elephants in the wild. You might even spot a tiger, leopard or Asiatic bear. Join us on the Thailand & Mekong Experience (page 42) for this thrilling inclusion.

SEE HOI AN GLOW

Wander the delightful streets of Hoi An's traditional Old Town, with its ochre-coloured buildings, old-world temples and historic merchant houses. Come sunset, watch in wonder as Hoi An's world-famous lanterns flicker into life, evoking the feel of a bygone age.