Focus Asia Tourplanner - Vietnam Cambodia Laos

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Tourplanner Edition 15

Vietnam Laos Cambodia

ABOUT US

For over 20 years, Focus Asia has been dedicated to curating exceptional travel experiences for tour operators and travel agents worldwide. Our commitment to providing top-notch tour services and logistical support has allowed us to assist our partners in offering captivating and unforgettable journeys to our diverse and enchanting destinations in Asia. In an era where global tourism is thriving, we take pride in serving a growing number of satisfied clients each year, crafting extraordinary holidays that showcase the beauty and cultural richness of our regions. At Focus Asia, we strive not only to meet but to exceed expectations, ensuring that every traveler enjoys the best possible vacation experience.

As we continue to navigate the dynamic landscape of the travel industry, our focus remains on fostering strong and enduring relationships with our valued partners across the globe. Your success is at the heart of our mission, and we are dedicated to working collaboratively to strengthen our ties and collectively achieve unparalleled excellence in the world of travel. Join us on a journey where your clients‘ dreams come to life, and together, let‘s create memories that last a lifetime. Your success is our shared success at Focus Asia.

OUR PRODUCT PORTFOLIO

• Great Selection of Round Trips

• Competitive Rates with all main hotels

• Package Tours and Stop Over Programs

• Join-In Tours with weekly departures

• Multi-language Tours

• Multi-country and combination Tours

• Special Interest Tours

• Meeting and Incentives Services

• Tailor-made Tours for Groups and FIT

• Dynamic Hotel Booking Engine

• Destination Management Services

2009

2004

2006

2012

Our Journeys continues and we will add more exciting destinations to our portfolio soon 2024

2023

www.focusasia.group 3 ABOUT US INTRODUCTION
Established operations in Vietnam 3 Established operations in Laos and Cambodia
2005
Established operations in Myanmar Opening of Global Sales Office in Asia and Europe
Established operations in Thailand Established operations in Malaysia, Singapore and the Philippines 2020
Established operations in Japan
sales@focusasia.group 4 OUR DESTINATIONS INTRODUCTION

8 International Sales Office

250 Years of combined destination experiences

Our Countries

11 Countries with own operation

1000 Of innovative tours in our portfolio and online tariff

With a steadfast commitment to providing unparalleled travel experiences, Focus Asia proudly operates operation offices across 11 countries in Asia. Our extensive regional presence allows us to seamlessly navigate and connect with the diverse landscapes, cultures, and attractions that make each destination unique. From the vibrant streets of Bangkok to the serene landscapes of Bali, our network of offices ensures that our clients receive personalized and efficient service, creating a seamless and unforgettable journey throughout the enchanting tapestry of Asia.

20 Years of Successful DMC Operation

100000 Delighted travelers from across the globe have traveled with us

Our Sales Offices

With an unwavering commitment to elevating client service, Focus Asia strategically operates its own sales offices in various countries, including Germany, the UK, Australia and other. Our dedicated staff in these locations ensures accessibility within your time zone, fostering a more personalized and efficient service tailored to the unique needs of our clients. This approach exemplifies our dedication to being there for you, no matter where you are, and enhancing the overall experience of our valued clients worldwide.

www.focusasia.group 5
WITH FOCUS ASIA INTRODUCTION
WORK
VietnamCambodia LaosMyanmar ThailandMalaysia SingaporePhilippines IndonesiaJapan South Korea

OUR SERVICES

At the heart of our business philosophy lies a genuine appreciation for the relationships we cultivate with our clients. Our commitment extends beyond the ordinary, as we strive to provide exceptional services that transcend the typical DMC experience. Collaborating with us opens doors to a comprehensive array of meticulously curated services, each designed to cater to your specific needs. Discover a partnership with a dedicated focus on excellence, where your satisfaction is our priority.

Group (SIC) Tours

Embark on a secure and worry-free journey through Asia‘s renowned sites. Join our scheduled departure tours with like-minded travelers, available in various languages, ensuring a delightful and inclusive experience with guaranteed departures.

Luxury Tours

Elevate your experience with the epitome of luxury –exclusive hotels and premium transportation. Tailored for the most discerning guests, this transcendent level of service promises unparalleled sophistication and indulgence.

Accommodations

Whether it‘s homestays, glamping, or boutique 5-star villas, we offer diverse accommodations at competitive rates. Your every lodging preference is met, ensuring a comfortable and personalized stay.

Excursions

Craft your day with exciting full-day, half-day, and evening experiences tailored to your interests. Unlock a world of possibilities, allowing you to curate your journey for a truly personalized adventure.

Private (FIT) Tours

Create your own unique journey with our tailor-made trips, designed to match your preferences and desires, ensuring a personalized travel experience perfectly tailored to your individual tastes and aspirations.

Cruises

Embark on unforgettable journeys sailing the mighty Mekong River or drifting past the enchanting limestone karsts of Halong Bay. Elevate your experience with our cruise options, offering unique and memorable perspectives.

Transfers

From cars and vans to trains, tuk-tuks, boats, or planes, we ensure your safe and swift journey to each destination. Experience unique modes of transportation, enhancing the joy of your travel.

Special Interest

Capture the magic of photography, savor culinary delights, indulge in wellness, or embark on wildlife adventures. Your journey, your way―we curate special activities to ensure the most extraordinary and memorable trip imaginable.

OUR SERVICES INTRODUCTION sales@focusasia.group 6

WORK WITH US

Drawing upon decades of unwavering dedication in the region, we invite you to leverage the wealth of expertise and resources that define our legacy at Focus Asia. Our commitment extends beyond the ordinary, encompassing a spectrum of services ranging from imaginative activities to flawless operations, maintaining open lines of communication, and curating cost-effective itineraries. With our seasoned proficiency, we aspire to be your trusted partner, assisting you in seamlessly crafting the perfect tour through the enchanting landscapes of Asia. Your journey is our priority, and we‘re here to ensure it‘s nothing short of extraordinary.

20 Years in Asia

Boasting centuries of combined expertise, our team exudes both knowledge and passion. We are devoted to supporting your clients with unparalleled commitment, ensuring their experience is truly exceptional.

Competitive Rates

Leveraging 30 years of operational prowess, we harness our significant buying power to secure exceptional rates. Our commitment is to share these savings with you, enhancing the value of our partnership.

Creative Itineraries

Embrace the luxury of customization as our dedicated team tailors our diverse array of tours and excursions to perfectly match your unique preferences. No request is too distinct―we create experiences exclusively for you.

Local Guides

Born and bred in our cherished destinations, our guides possess an innate passion for revealing the beauty of these countries to your guests. Their commitment transforms every visit into an enriching experience.

Single & Multi-country

With operation offices across Asia, your clients‘ journeys become seamless and cost-effective. Streamline the process, save time, and benefit from our expertise as you create unforgettable experiences through a single, trusted source.

Agent Incentives

Nurturing enduring partnerships, we cherish our loyal collaborators, recognizing the immense value in these mutually beneficial relationships. Years of collaboration underscore our commitment to shared success and sustained excellence.

www.focusasia.group 7 OUR SERVICES INTRODUCTION

VIETNAM

Timeless Charm

Vietnam, has captured the hearts and minds of tourists from all over the world with its eclectic mixture of old and new. Traditional and historic Hanoi balances with the dynamic and modern Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon). In central Vietnam, the ancient former imperial capital, Hue, is reminiscent of a time of concubines and eunuchs. Elsewhere, the green patchwork of rice paddies stretches into the distance, broken only by the silhouette of water buffalo and farmers wearing iconic conical hats.

VIETNAMESE DONG CURRENCY

HANOI CAPITAL (Some French spoken)

VIETNAMESE LANGUAGE

GMT+7

INDOCHINA TIME ZONE

tiếng Việt

XIN XIAO TO VIETNAM

SEASONS

There are no good or bad seasons to visit Vietnam. When one region is wet, cold or boiling hot, there is always somewhere else that is sunny and pleasant! Because of its geography, stretching 1,650km from north to south and from sea level to mountain tops at 3,143m, there are plenty of unique seasons in Vietnam.

NOVEMBER - APRIL NORTH VIETNAM

Avg. High 20°C / 68°F

Avg. Low 10°C / 50°F

Avg. Precipitation 75mm

Tourism Higher

JANUARY - AUGUST CENTRAL VIETNAM

Avg. High 35°C / 95°F

Avg. Low 25°C / 77°F

Avg. Precipitation 100mm

Tourism Higher

NOVEMBER - APRIL SOUTH VIETNAM

Avg. High 35°C / 95°F

Avg. Low 25°C / 77°F

Avg. Precipitation 40mm

Tourism Higher

COUNTRY INFO VIETNAM sales@focusasia.group 10

HISTORY

The conquest of Vietnam by France began in 1858 and was completed by 1884. It became part of French Indochina in 1887. Vietnam declared independence after World War II, but France continued to rule until its 1954 defeat by Communist forces under Ho Chi Minh. Under the Geneva Accords of 1954, Vietnam was divided into the Communist North and Anti-Communist South. US economic and military aid to South Vietnam grew through the 1960’s in an attempt to bolster the government, but US armed forces were withdrawn following a cease-fire agreement in 1973. Two years later, North Vietnamese forces overran the South reuniting the country under the Communist rule. With the return of peace, Vietnam liberalized its economy and saw rapid economic growth and expansion within the last few decades.

CULTURE

Vietnamese culture is complex, diverse and represents something of a history lesson. The nation’s labyrinthine, teeming trading quarters are rich in indigenous crafts and reflect centuries-old mercantile influences. Ancient temples display distinctly Chinese influences in the north and Hindu origins in the south. Meanwhile the broad, tree-lined boulevards and grand state buildings that grace the capital date from the French colonial period. And it’s impossible to forget Vietnam’s pivotal position close to the epicentre of East Asian power and prosperity, for its cities’ skylines are defined by clusters of glass-and-steel corporate HQs and sleek luxury hotels.

Vietnam is imbued with rich tradition and continued rituals. Listed below are holidays observed across the country and the month they are usually celebrated.

January

International New Year’s Day

February

Tet Holiday / Vietnamese

New Year

April

Hung Kings Festival

April

Reunification Day

May

International Labor Day

September

Independence Day www.focusasia.group

HOLIDAYS
11 COUNTRY INFO VIETNAM

EVENTS & FESTIVALS

EARLY EBRUARY

Têt (Vietnamese New Year)

Vietnam

Têt is Vietnam’s most important festival of the year which draws the whole country together for celebration. While it’s principally a religious celebration, it’s still a fascinating time to visit Vietnam. You’ll find people lighting fireworks, visiting temples and giving away flowers (Note: Expect small travel delays during this time).

MID-FEBRUARY

Perfume Festival

The Perfume Festival draws people all over Vietnam to Hanoi’s Perfume Pagoda. The pilgrimage starts with a dragon dance at Den Trinh Pagoda, where locals travel by boat along the Yen River to the base of Huong Mountain. The journey continues to Huong Tich Cave, where there is a colorful display of food offerings, statues of dieties, lit incenses and prayers.

LATE FEBRUARY

LATE APRIL

Hung King Temple Festival

Lim Festival Bac Ninh

Lim Festival is where you can enjoy UNESCO-listed “quan ho” folk singing performances and a wide range of traditional games. Held on the 12th and 13th day of the first lunar month, the festival features various areas within the village where you can see locals performing song, dance, and games in traditional clothes.

MID-MONTH (EVERY MONTH)

Hoi An Lantern Festival Hoi An

Hoi An Lantern Festival is a monthly event that transforms the quaint town into a spectacular display of paper lanterns. On the 14th day of each lunar month, every shop, restaurant, bar and businesses in the Ancient Town switches off all electricity and relies on hundreds of candles and lanterns.

Phu Tho

This festival is held in honour of Kinh Duong Vuong, Vietnam’s first king. The main worship event takes place at the Hung Temple, which is perched atop Nghia Linh Mountain in Phu Tho Province. A large procession starts from the top of the mountain with classical song performances stopping at several temples along the way.

Hue City

EARLY APRIL

Hue Festival

Hue Festival is a biannual celebration that takes place in UNESCO-listed Hue City, where you can enjoy an array of cultural events, games, and performances held over a week. If you’re visiting Hue in April, May or June, expect unique showcases such as the Hue Poetry Festival, Ao Dai Fashion Shows and more!

LATE AUGUST

Wandering Souls Day

Vietnam

The annual Wandering Souls Day is when Vietnamese people believe spirits of their ancestors are able to visit their homes. On the eve of the festival, families flock to Buddhist temples and graves of their loved ones to offer prayers, flowers, sticky rice cakes, sugarcane, and fruits. Paper money and clothes are also burned during this time.

Hoi An

LATE SEPTEMBER

Mid-Autumn Festival

Mid-Autumn Festival, held on the 14th and 15th day of the lunar month, features a wide range of activities such as children carrying paper lanterns, lion dances, and booths selling mooncakes, sticky rice, fruits, and sweets. Houses will set up an altar during the night of the Mid-Autumn Festival where they will display offerings to the full moon.

COUNTRY INFO VIETNAM
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Hanoi
www.focusasia.group 13 COUNTRY MAP VIETNAM

HALONG BAY

EXAMPLE CRUISE ROUTES

1 Day Route

Choose from a variety of cruises ranging from 4-8 hours around Halong Bay. Visit places such as the Tung Sau Area, Me Cung Cave, Soi Sim Island, the Tien Ong Cave, Ba Ham lake, and other places if time permits.

2 Day Route

For 2 days, you can witness the sunset and sunrise over Halong Bay. Discover Trinh Nu Cave, where the Love Story of Halong Bay began. Kayak in the most pristine water and enjoy the fresh air on Trinh Nu Beach. Join a cooking demonstration of Vietnamese cuisine or an early Tai Chi class.

3 Day Route

In addition to the other 2 days, you can swim in the gorgeous Three Peach Beach. Kayak in the most pristine water and enjoy the fresh air in Ba Ham Lake. And you can discover untouched spectacular scenery by bike and go trekking in a local village on the large Cat Ba Island.

sales@focusasia.group 14
COUNTRY MAP VIETNAM

MEKONG DELTA

SA PA

www.focusasia.group 15 COUNTRY
VIETNAM
MAP

THE NORTH

Northern Vietnam is a tapestry of cultural and natural wonders. Hanoi, the lively capital, boasts historical treasures like the Old Quarter and Ho Chi Minh‘s Mausoleum. The breathtaking Halong Bay, adorned with towering limestone karsts, is a UNESCO site offering scenic cruises. Sapa, nestled in the Hoang Lien Son mountains, unveils terraced rice fields and ethnic minority villages. The region‘s diverse highlights include the charm of ancient traditions, the allure of stunning landscapes, and the warmth of its hospitable communities.

Hanoi

Hanoi, the capital, is a rich city featuring mazes of winding, narrow lanes full of shops, taverns, cyclos and motorbikes. The city centre is an architectural museum piece, featuring blocks of colonial-style buildings retaining the air of a peaceful and austere provincial town. Stroll around in the old quarters near Hoan Kiem Lake for a peaceful oasis in the middle of the bustling metropolis.

Ninh Binh

Ninh Binh is considered by some to be a “dry Halong Bay,” known for its limestone hills and meandering river taking you through three caves before entering a secluded valley. Here, the river merges seamlessly into rich green rice fields, and farmer’s dwellings can be seen, clinging to the cliffs tending to its rocky outcrops. As you make your way through the river, keep an eye out for plunging Kingfishers or nimble-footed mountain goats silhouetted against the skyline and rough stone.

Sa Pa

Located 1,500 metres above sea level in Vietnam’s remote northwest mountains, Sapa is famous for its rugged scenery, luscious rice fields and rich ethnic and cultural diversity. Close to China, this picturesque town is home to many ethnic groups, who can be seen around the town in their colourful, traditional clothing.

Halong Bay

This UNESCO World Heritage Site is considered by many to be one of Natural Wonders of the World, and for good reason. Over 2,000 magnificent limestone karsts rise from the clear, emerald waters of the Gulf of Tonkin, making for a truly picturesque scene not to be missed. The limestone basin reveals stalactite caves, crescent beaches and odd-shaped formations. It is also famous for its varied ecological system housing thousands of fish species, along with hundreds of coral and other sea creatures.

Hai Phong

Hai Phong is a large trading gateway in the Northern part of the country. The Chinese, Japanese, French, Spanish and Portuguese have been trading here for centuries. Nowadays it’s a commercial centre with an important transportation hub. Moreover, visitors can enjoy beautiful landscapes as well as unique festivals celebrated on Cat Ba Island and Do Son Beach.

DESTINATIONS VIETNAM sales@focusasia.group 16

THE CENTRAL

Central Vietnam is a treasure trove of cultural and historical gems. Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage site, enchants with its well-preserved ancient town and lantern-lit evenings. Hue, the former imperial capital, boasts the Imperial City, a complex of palaces, temples, and walls steeped in history. The scenic landscapes of Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park house the stunning Son Doong Cave, the world‘s largest cave system. With its blend of rich heritage and natural wonders, central Vietnam beckons travelers with an immersive and unforgettable experience.

Danang

Danang’s origin dates back to the ancient Champa Kingdom, established by Indonesian settlers in 192 AD. However, nowhere in Vietnam has changed as fast as Danang. Along the waterfront, you will find new modernist hotels, spectacular bridges, and new beachside developments emerging. Located directly on the coast with fabulous beaches, it is an ideal base to begin exploring both Hoi An and Hue city.

Hoi An

This quaint riverside town was once the principal port of the Cham Kingdom. Beautiful, steeped in history and culture, this UNESCO World Heritage Town is very popular with visitors, and for good reason. Just 30km south of Danang, Hoi An was one of the major trading centres of southeast Asia in the 16th century.Hoi An has retained a distinct Chinese atmosphere with low, tile-roofed houses and narrow streets. Ancient houses are made of rare wood, decorated with lacquered boards and panels engraved with Chinese characters; pillars are also carved with ornamental designs.

My Son

My Son, located in central Vietnam, stands as a testament to the ancient Cham civilization. This UNESCO World Heritage site is a cluster of Hindu temples dating back to the 4th to 14th centuries, showcasing intricate architecture and ornate carvings. Set against a backdrop of lush greenery, My Son remains a captivating archaeological and cultural destination, offering visitors a glimpse into Vietnam‘s rich history.

Hue

Situated directly on the atmospheric Perfume River, Hue is without doubtone of Vietnam’s most historic cities. This former Royal Capital is full of temples, pagodas, palaces, tombs and culture. Besides monuments, Hue still retains much of its past glory in daily routines and activities in religion, gastronomy, handicraft, music, the performing arts and festivals.

Lang Co

Nestled between the azure waters of the East Sea and the Truong Son mountain range, Lang Co in central Vietnam is a picturesque coastal paradise. This pristine bay boasts a serene white-sand beach, crystalclear waters, and lush green hills. Lang Co‘s tranquility and natural beauty make it a hidden gem for those seeking a peaceful retreat and stunning seaside landscapes.

DESTINATIONS VIETNAM sales@focusasia.group 18

THE SOUTH

Southern Vietnam is a dynamic region with a blend of cultural, historical, and natural highlights. Ho Chi Minh City, the bustling metropolis, dazzles with its modern energy and French colonial architecture. The Mekong Delta, a vast network of rivers and floating markets, provides a glimpse into traditional river life. The Cu Chi Tunnels, a testament to Vietnam‘s wartime history, offer a fascinating underground experience. From the vibrant city life to the scenic waterways, South Vietnam captivates visitors with its diverse and vibrant tapestry of experiences.

Ho Chi Minh City

Saigon is Vietnam’s most progressive and bustling city, buzzing with activity all hours of the day. French colonial buildings and historic landmarks and museums are highlights of this rapidly developing city. The city is crammed full of restaurants and bars ranging from simple pavement stalls where you can buy a bowl of noodles on the cheap, to sophisticated restaurants serving fine European cuisine. Ho Chi Minh’s nightlife is very cosmopolitan, and there are literally hundreds of bars, pubs, nightclubs and discotheques to explore. It is also a real shopper’s paradise with modern shopping centres and trendy boutiques situated nearby traditional street markets.

Cu Chi Tunnels

Located near Ho Chi Minh City in southern Vietnam, are a testament to the ingenuity of the Vietnamese during the Vietnam War. This extensive underground network served as a strategic military base, complete with living quarters, storage rooms, and command centers. Visitors can explore a section of the tunnels, gaining insight into the challenges and resourcefulness of the guerrilla fighters who utilized them.

Dalat

Located in the South central highlands, Dalat is a slice of Europe tucked away in the rolling hills of Southern Vietnam. It was originally a getaway for the French, who built villas to escape the heat and humidity off the coast and in Saigon. Dalat’s colourful market features locally made specialities such as artichoke tea, candied fruits, coffee and the finest cool climate vegetables and flowers in Vietnam.

Mekong Delta

The Mekong Delta offers travellers the opportunity to experience rural Vietnam and a way of life little changed over centuries. Travel by sampan along narrow cancels to tropical fruit orchards and bonsai gardens; sample freshly picked fruits and the local delicacy, friend elephant-ear fish; and navigate the winding waterways and exlpore the area’s famed floating markets.

Cat Tien

Nestled near Saigon, Cat Tien National Park is a verdant sanctuary showcasing Vietnam‘s biodiversity. This protected area encompasses lush rainforests, wetlands, and diverse ecosystems, offering a haven for rare wildlife like the Javan rhinoceros and Asian elephant. Visitors can explore its scenic trails, discover unique flora and fauna, and immerse themselves in the pristine natural beauty that defines Cat Tien National Park.

DESTINATIONS VIETNAM sales@focusasia.group 20

Located in the heart of Saigon District 1 next to the Saigon River, Opera House, Nguyen Hue walking street and many historical attractions. After a long day, take time to unwind in our rooftop pool, while sipping a drink from our impressive bar. Get a good night’s sleep in one of our 70 elegantly modern guest rooms and sample our fine international cuisine. Whether for business or leisure Ramada Encore Saigon D1 anticipates your every need.

www.ramadaencoresaigon.com rsvn@ramadaencoresaigon.com +84 283 915 8126

THE BEACH RESORTS

Vietnam‘s coastline is adorned with exquisite beach resorts that offer an idyllic blend of luxury and natural beauty. From the palm-fringed shores of Nha Trang to the serene beaches of Phu Quoc, these resorts provide a perfect escape. Whether it‘s the vibrant atmosphere of Da Nang‘s My Khe Beach or the secluded luxury of Con Dao, visitors can indulge in pristine sands, turquoise waters, and world-class amenities. Vietnam‘s beach resorts promise a rejuvenating retreat, combining breathtaking landscapes with unparalleled hospitality.

Nha Trang

Pure, white sandy beaches and clear blue waters make Nha Trang the best place in Vietnam for swimming and scuba diving. Spend time touring the ocean by boat, visiting fishing villages and eating delicious, fresh seafood. Other than its seaside area, guests can take a bicycle ride along the beachfront boulevard to the city’s market and to the ancient Cham towers of Po Nagar to see a full view of the coast. A vibrant night scene with a diverse range or bars and restaurants mean this town has something to suit all tastes.

Danang

Da Nang, nestled along Vietnam‘s central coast, stands out as a captivating beach destination. With its long stretches of golden sands, My Khe Beach in Da Nang offers an inviting retreat for sun-seekers. The beach‘s gentle waves and vibrant atmosphere make it a perfect spot for relaxation, water sports, and seaside enjoyment. Da Nang‘s coastal charm, complemented by nearby attractions, makes it a must-visit destination for beach enthusiasts.

Phan Thiet

Often overlooked by travellers, Mui Ne is a charming beach town that is ideal for beach goers and kite surfers alike! Golfers will enjoy the Ocean Dunes, a classic course set amid a stunning surrounding. Phan Thiet is located 200km from Saigon along Vietnam’s southeastern coast; and is home to one of the best stretches of beach in the country. Phan Thiet has retained its fishing village culture despite a myriad of resorts that have opened on coast of Mui Ne.

Phu Quoc

Surely the most beautiful island in Vietnam, Phu Quoc is surrounded by white sand beaches and a dense jungle in the centre. Long Beach is refined, Ong Lan Beach romantic, and Bai Sao simply irresistible. With 37,000 hectares of forest, it is home to assorted rare plants and birds. Phu Quoc is called the ‘Pearl Island’ because high quality, large pearls can be found there. Enjoy both sun and steam baths, climb up to caves or venture deep into the forest where you can enjoy nature and wildlife.

Vung Tau

Vung Tau, located just a few hours from Ho Chi Minh City, is a popular beach destination in southern Vietnam. With its long stretches of sandy coastline, Vung Tau offers ample opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. Visitors can also explore attractions like the Christ the King statue and the White Palace, making it a well-rounded destination for beachgoers and sightseers alike.

DESTINATIONS VIETNAM sales@focusasia.group 22

Quy Nhon

Quy Nhon, nestled on Vietnam‘s central coast, is a hidden gem renowned for its unspoiled beaches and tranquil atmosphere. Bai Xep and Bai Dai beaches enchant visitors with their pristine sands and clear turquoise waters, perfect for swimming and sunbathing. Away from the crowds, Quy Nhon offers a serene escape, making it an ideal destination for those seeking seaside relaxation in a picturesque setting.

Ho Tram

Ho Tram, situated along the southern coast of Vietnam, is a pristine beach destination offering a serene escape. With its long stretches of golden sands and gentle waves, Ho Tram provides a tranquil retreat for beach enthusiasts. The area is dotted with luxurious resorts and offers a peaceful setting, making it an ideal spot for those seeking relaxation amidst natural beauty.

Con Dao

Con Dao, an archipelago off Vietnam‘s southeastern coast, is a hidden gem known for its pristine beauty and historical significance. Renowned for its turquoise waters and white sandy beaches, Con Dao also holds historical relics from the French colonial era and the Vietnam War, including the notorious Con Dao Prison. Today, it attracts travelers seeking a tranquil escape and a glimpse into Vietnam‘s past.

Hoi An

While Hoi An is renowned for its ancient charm and well-preserved architecture, it also boasts beautiful beaches that add to its allure. An Bang Beach, a short distance from the historic town, captivates with its soft golden sands and tranquil atmosphere. Visitors can bask in the sun, swim in the clear waters, and enjoy a perfect blend of cultural exploration and beachfront relaxation in this picturesque Vietnamese destination.

HOI ANReimagine Discover a hidden gem in the heart of Hoi An Ancient Town, where luxury and history meet seamlessly. The 5-star boutique resort offers guest the ultimate indulgence with its exquisitive restaurants and bars, along with an award-winning spa complex featuring 40 state-of-the-art treatment rooms, a Himalayan Salt Sauna, Herbal Steam bath, Yoga Space, and and Indoor Vitality Pool. A Premier SPA – FOOD – MICE Venue on the doorstep of the UNESCO World Heritage Town A. 326 Ly Thuong Kiet Street, Tan An Ward, Hoi An City, Vietnam W. almanityhoian.com T. +(84) 235 3666 888 E. reservation@almanityhoian.com

SMALL GROUP JOURNEYS

WEDNESDAY // HANOI

On arrival, transfer to your hotel and meet your fellow travelers over welcome drinks

THURSDAY // HANOI

Begin your guided tour of Hanoi, starting with Hoan Kiem Lake and the nearby Dong Xuan market. Your next stop will be Ho Chi Minh complex which includes Ba Dinh Square, the Presidential Palace. In the same complex you will see the One Pillar Pagoda. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before continuing on to the Temple Of Literature, Vietnam’s first university. You will then visit Hoa Lo Prison (formerly known as the “Hanoi Hilton” during the American War). Your tour will also include the historical St Joseph’s Cathedral. The last stop of the day will be a visit inside the Opera House

FRIDAY

// HANOI – HALONG BAY

Drive past scenes of traditional rural life as you travel from Hanoi to Halong City. On arrival, board a well-appointed boat, enjoy a delicious lunch and begin cruising among some of the 3,000 islands which rise from the sea. In the evening, retreat to your private cabin, or relax on the main deck or at the bar.

MONDAY // HOI AN

Transfer in the morning to Vong Nhi village to begin cycling through the beautiful countryside (6 km) until arriving at Thanh Dong organic farm. We will join farmers to do some gardening activities.

HIGHLIGHTS OF VIETNAM

9 DAYS / 8 NIGHTS

SATURDAY // HALONG BAY – HUE

PRIVATE TOUR

SMALL GROUP JOURNEYS

GUARANTEED WITH 2 - MAX 16

Hanoi - Halong Bay - Hue - Hoi AnSaigon - Mekong Delta - Saigon

RECOMMENDED FOR:

* Culture seekers

* Nature Lovers

TRANSPORTATION:

* Group transfer

* Domestic flight

* Cycling

DEPARTURES:

* Every week on Wednesday

TOUR CODE:

* VNSIC005E

*English departures max 16 pax

Take part in a sunrise Tai Chi lesson on the sundeck before enjoying brunch on board. Cruise back to port to disembark. Drive to Hanoi airport where you will fly to the former imperial capital of Hue. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel for check in and leisure.

NO MINIMUM PAX NUMBER sales@focusasia.group

SUNDAY // HUE – HOI AN

Depart your hotel for your half day tour of Hue, the former imperial capital of Vietnam. You will visit Thien Mu Pagoda, considered to be the centre of Buddhism in central Vietnam. Continue to visit the Citadel at the Imperial Palace, which houses Thai Hoa Palace. Then visit the Tomb of Tu Duc. Depart Hue for Hoi An, driving over the beautiful Hai Van Pass - Vietnam’s geographical and psychological boundary between the North and South. Upon arrival, transfer to hotel for check-in and leisure.

After, take a basket boat ride along the Do River to The Field restaurant. Join a short cooking class for Vietnamese-style lunch. In the afternoon, we’ll start the walking tour of Hoi An. We’ll visit the Museum of Folk Culture, the Chinese Assembly Hall, and the Japanese covered bridge which was built in the early 17th century. The special pagoda-shaped bridge is now the official symbol of Hoi An. Finish at the historic old house of Hoi An.

TUESDAY // HOI AN – SAIGON

After breakfast, take a short drive to Danang for a flight to Saigon. This afternoon, visit the Cu Chi Tunnels, a stretch of over 250km of tunnels used during the war. Return to Saigon with the rest of the day being free for leisure.

WEDNESDAY // SAIGON & DELTA

Escape to the stunning Mekong Delta region from Ho Chi Minh City to My Tho, a peaceful town on the banks of the Mekong. Visit Cao Dai Temple before embarking on a boat ride to the Dragon, Unicorn, Turtle and Phoenix Islands. During the trip, we can walk through orchards, cart riding within villages and canal cruising by Sampan. In the late afternoon transfer back to Saigon for a farewell dinner in the evening.

THURSDAY // SAIGON

Enjoy a half day tour of Saigon. Visit the former Presidential Palace, Notre-Dame Cathedral, the Post Office, City Hall, Dong Khoi Street and the Opera House. Stop by Ben Thanh market, one of the biggest markets located downtown. Then transfer to the airport for departure.

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VIETNAM

SMALL GROUP JOURNEYS

SA PA BY TRAIN

4 DAYS / 3 NIGHTS

SMALL GROUP JOURNEYS

GUARANTEED WITH 2 - MAX 16

PRIVATE TOUR NO MINIMUM PAX NUMBER

Hanoi - Sapa

RECOMMENDED FOR:

* Culture seekers

* Nature Lovers

TRANSPORTATION:

* Group transfer

* Overnight Train

DEPARTURES:

* Daily

DISTANCES / TIME:

HANOI – LAO CAI

8hr (296km) overnight train

TOUR CODE:

* VNSIC004E

*English departures max 16 pax

DAY 1 // HANOI – SA PA

On arrival, you will be met and transferred to Fanxipan overnight train where you will begin your onward journey to Sapa.

DAY 2 // SA PA

As dawn approaches, arrive early into Lao Cai station, where you will disembark and transfer to your hotel in Sapa town. Along the way, take in the spectacular panoramic mountain scenery. Located in the far northwest of Vietnam in the mountains bordering China, Sapa is home to deep mountain valleys and traditional villages.

On arrival at your hotel, check in and enjoy a delightful breakfast with your fellow travelers. Spend your afternoon admiring the beauty of Sapa on-board the Fansipan Cable Car that will take you 3000m to the upmost peak of Fansipan to explore the many temples as well as admire the natural beauty of Hoang Lien Son and Muong Hoa Valley.

DAY 3 // SA PA

Enjoy a full day of guided touring with a journey to discover the rich culture of the many hill tribes that call Sapa home. Gaze at the beautifully terraced rice paddy fields and stunning vistas as you drive to the villages of the Xa Pho and Tay people. Discover the fascinating culture and

heart- warming hospitality of these unique people before departing to indulge in a leisurely walk through the expansive rice terraces of Nam Cang. Take a break and further indulge in the peaceful surrounds at the Nam Cang Riverside Lodge for lunch. Continue your afternoon with a visit to one of the area’s most colourful minority communities, the Red Dzao. The Red Dzao women wear bright red turbans, shave their heads and eyebrows, and are known for their knowledge of local medicines and embroidery skills. As late afternoon approaches arrive at the Topas Ecolodge for check in and your overnight stay. Perched over the surrounding valley and built using sustainable principles, in collaboration with the Red Dzao, its environmentally-friendly features include solar power, waste water treatment and a natural water source from the nearby mountains. The property has been recognized by National Geographic as a ‘unique lodge’.

DAY 4 // SA PA – HANOI

After breakfast enjoy some free time at the Ecolodge, where you might like to try a spa treatment or take a short walk into the surrounding area. Later check out of the lodge before journeying back to Hanoi, around 5 hours, where your tour will end. If you are departing from Hanoi on a late afternoon or evening flight you will be dropped directly at the airport. Although it’s time to say goodbye to think of all the wonderful stories you will take home!

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VIETNAM

SMALL GROUP JOURNEYS

SUNDAY // HANOI

On arrival, transfer to your hotel and meet your fellow travelers over welcome drinks.

MONDAY // HANOI

Begin your guided tour of Hanoi, starting with Hoan Kiem Lake and the nearby Dong Xuan market. Your next stop will be Ho Chi Minh complex which includes Ba Dinh Square, the Presidential Palace. In the same complex you will see the One Pillar Pagoda. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before continuing on to the Temple Of Literature, Vietnam’s first university. You will then visit Hoa Lo Prison (formerly known as the “Hanoi Hilton” during the American War). Your tour will also include the historical St Joseph’s Cathedral. The last stop of the day will be a visit inside the Opera House.

FRIDAY // HUE – HOI AN

Depart your hotel for your half day tour of Hue, the former imperial capital of Vietnam. You will visit Thien Mu Pagoda, considered to be the centre of Buddhism in central Vietnam. Continue to visit the Citadel at the Imperial Palace, which houses Thai Hoa Palace. Then visit the Tomb of Tu Duc. Depart Hue for Hoi An, driving over the beautiful Hai Van Pass - Vietnam’s geographical and psychological boundary between the North and South. Upon arrival, transfer to hotel for check-in and leisure.

THURSDAY // HOI AN

TUESDAY // HANOI – NINH BINH

VIETNAM INSIGHT

10 DAYS / 9 NIGHTS

This morning travel to Ninh Binh. Stop by Hoa Lu, known to travellers as Vietnam’s ‘Inland Halong Bay.’ After visiting King Dinh Tien Hoang and King Le Dai Hanh temples, embark on a boat trip to visit Trang An grottoes. While rowing through Trang a grotto in the quiet, fresh air of the highlands, with only the sound of birds and the oars stirring the clear water and surrounded by magnificent forested mountains.

Transfer in the morning to Vong Nhi village to begin cycling through the beautiful countryside (6 km) until arriving at Thanh Dong organic farm. Join farmers to do some gardening activities. After, take a basket boat ride along the Do River. Join a short cooking class for Vietnamese-style lunch. In the afternoon, we’ll start the walking tour of Hoi An. We’ll visit the Museum of Folk Culture, the Chinese Assembly Hall, and the Japanese covered bridge which was built in the early 17th century. Finish at the historic old house.

FRIDAY // HOI AN – SAIGON

PRIVATE TOUR

SMALL GROUP JOURNEYS

NO MINIMUM PAX NUMBER

GUARANTEED WITH 2 - MAX 16

Hanoi - Ninh Binh - Halong Bay - Hue - Hoi An - Saigon - Can Tho - Saigon

RECOMMENDED FOR:

* Culture seekers

* Nature Lovers

TRANSPORTATION:

* Group transfer

* Domestic flight

* Cycling

DEPARTURES:

* Every other week on Sunday

TOUR CODE:

* VNSIC006E

*English departures max 16 pax

WEDNESDAY // NINH BINH –HALONG BAY

Marvel at the towering limestone karsts and vast paddy fields as you make your way from Ninh Binh to Halong Bay. Board a cruise and enjoy a sumptuous lunch before stopping to explore the many secluded corners of the bay. In the evening, retreat to your private cabin, or relax on the main deck or at the bar.

THURSDAY // HALONG BAY – HUE

Rise early to enjoy a Tai Chi lesson on the sundeck, or choose to relax and take in your final moments in the bay. After disembarking, drive back to Hanoi for a domestic flight to Hue.

After breakfast, take a short drive to Danang for your flight to Saigon. Upon arrival in Saigon, transfer to your hotel for check-in. This afternoon your journey continues to the Cu Chi Tunnels. On returning to Saigon, spend the remainder of the day enjoying the sights and sounds of the city.

FRIDAY // SAIGON – CAN THO

Depart early in the morning to Cai Be, deep in the heart of the Mekong Delta where there’s a floaing market to visit. After sailing through the delta, disembark to explore local life by visiting the town’s business and craft factories. Enjoy a leisurely sampan ride through canals for a local lunch. Continue to Vinh Long and stop at a local brick & pottery making factory before returning to Can Tho.

SATURDAY // SAIGON

Enjoy a half day tour of Saigon. Visit the former Presidential Palace, Notre-Dame Cathedral, the Post Office, City Hall, Dong Khoi Street and the Opera House. Stop by Ben Thanh market, one of the biggest markets located downtown. Then transfer to the airport for departure.

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VIETNAM

A rejuvenating getaway in Hue with daily inclusion:

Breakfast anywhere, anytime

Spa treatment

Authentic Japanese Onsen

Natural hot springs

Zipline, Highwire

Movement therapies

Phong Dien, Thua Thien Hue, Vietnam
www.albawellnessvalley.com

SMALL GROUP JOURNEYS

NORTH VIETNAM

10 DAYS / 9 NIGHTS

SMALL GROUP JOURNEYS

GUARANTEED WITH 2 - MAX 16

PRIVATE TOUR NO MINIMUM PAX NUMBER

Hanoi - Sapa - Ninh Binh - Halong Bay - Hanoi

RECOMMENDED FOR:

* Culture seekers

* Nature Lovers

TRANSPORTATION:

* Group transfer

* Overnight Train

DEPARTURES:

* Every other week on Sunda

DISTANCES / TIME:

HANOI – LAO CAI 8hr (296km) overnight train

HANOI – NINH BINH 2hr (105km)

NINH BINH – HALONG BAY 3.5hr (192km)

HALONG BAY – HANOI 3hr (156km)

TOUR CODE:

* VNSIC010E

*English departures max 16 pax

SUNDAY // HANOI

On arrival, transfer to your hotel and meet your fellow travelers over welcome drinks.

MONDAY // HANOI

This morning depart for Dong Ngac village. Upon arrival, hop on bicycles and pedla to the local market to shop for fresh ingredients for your lunch. Then visit the oldest house in the village and visit the home of a veteran who survived the Vietnam War. Participate in a private cooking class and enjoy lunch with the ingredients you bought. Chat with the host and listen to their story of the War.

TUESDAY // HANOI – SA PA

Spend the morning exploring the Ho Chi Minh area which includes the Presidential Palace, One Pillar Pagoda, Hoa Lo Prison (“Hanoi Hilton”), and the Temple of Literature. In the evening, depart from Hanoi on a sleeper train to Lao Cai. Overnight on Train.

WEDNESDAY // SA PA

Start early as you arrive into Lao Cai Station before transferring to your hotel. Visit the Lao Chai & Tan Van villages, nestled peacefully in the valley of Muong Hoa. You will then start your walk by descending into the valley, which is the largest rice paddy terraced among Sapa area. After visiting Tan Van, the car will pick you up to return to Sa Pa.

THURSDAY // SA PA

Drive to O Quy Ho with several stops for magnificent landscapes of Fansipan. Then drive to Ban Khoang, a village of the Red Zao ethnic people. Leaving Ban Khoang and proceed along the road to Ta Giang Phing valley inhabited by the Black Hmong people. Enjoy lunch before walking along village path connecting village to village to discover daily life. Return to Sa Pa.

FRIDAY // SA PA

Join your guide and driver to Fanxipan Mount. On the way, we’ll stop at the Silver Waterfall before continuing to Heaven Gate and Tram Ton Pass. It is the best point here to enjoy breathtaking scenery of the two side of Fanxipan Mountain Range. Leaving the Heaven Gate, stop to visit a lush farm in O Quy Ho. Enjoy the afternoon at leisure before your evening transfer to Lao Cai station for an overnight train to Hanoi.

SATURDAY // SA PA – NINH BINH

After arriving in the morning, travel to Ninh Binh. Stop by Hoa Lu, known to travellers as Vietnam’s ‘Inland Halong Bay.’ After visiting King Dinh Tien Hoang and King Le Dai Hanh temples, embark on a boat trip to visit Trang An grottoes. While rowing through Trang a grotto in the quiet, fresh air of the highlands, with only the sound of birds and the oars stirring the clear water.

SUNDAY // NINH BINH – HALONG BAY

Marvel at the towering limestone karsts and vast paddy fields as you make your way from Ninh Binh to Halong Bay. Board a cruise and enjoy a sumptuous lunch before stopping to explore the many secluded corners of the bay. In the evening, retreat to your private cabin, or relax on the main deck or at the bar.

MONDAY // HALONG BAY –HANOI

Watch the sun rise as you enjoy Tai Chi on the sundeck. Relish in a delightful brunch on board before cruising back to port to disembark and drive back to Hanoi. Enjoy a farewell dinner with your fellow travellers in the evening.

TUESDAY // HANOI

Transfer will take you to the airport for your onward travels.

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VIETNAM

DAY 1 // HANOI

Greetings on arrival and transfer to your hotel, where the ancient capital city of Vietnam awaits. Discover its charm and elegance, amidst blaring horns and streets surging with scooters around the city. See cultural and historical highlights in today’s tour comprising of Ho Chi Minh Complex, One Pillar Pagoda, Temple of Literature and the Old Quarter.

DAY 2-3 // HANOI – HALONG BAY CRUISE – HUE

Depart from Hanoi and transfer to Halong Bay to embark on a 2 day cruise. A designated UNESCO World Heritage Site, experience a vision of exquisite beauty as you cruise along the bay’s emerald waters surrounded with towering limestone pillars and thousands of small forrest topped islands. Disembark in the late morning and return back to Hanoi. Transfer to Hanoi Airport for an evening flight to Hue.

DAY 4 // HUE CITY TOUR

DAY 6 // HOI AN

Charming and peaceful, Hoi An Town is an example of a well-preserved Southeast Asian trading port with its colorful buildings and temples. Start the tour at the Culture and History Museum before walking around the the Old Town to the visually stunning local market. Walk along the main street to the Chinese Assembly Hall then along the riverbanks with streets lined up with colorful lanterns. Finally, revel on the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge, an official symbol of Hoi An. In the afternoon take a leisurely boat ride to the carpentry village of Cam Kim and the pottery village of Thanh Ha before returning to Hoi An to end our day.

DAY 7 // HOI AN – SAIGON

Depart from Hoi An and transfer to Danang Airport for a flight to Saigon. Upon arrival proceed directly to the Cu Chi Tunnels. Revisit Vietnam’s courageous past and see the ‘underground village’ a labyrinth of interlaced tunnels built during the VietnamAmerican War.

HIGHLIGHTS OF VIETNAM

9 DAYS / 8 NIGHTS

Hanoi - Halong Bay - Hue - Hoi AnSaigon - Mekong Delta - Saigon

RECOMMENDED FOR:

* Families

* Nature Lovers

TRANSPORTATION:

* Private transfer

* Domestic flight

DISTANCE / TIME

HANOI – HA LONG BAY 3hr (156km)

HANOI – HUE

1hr 10min non-stop flight

DANANG – HO CHI MINH CITY 1hr 20min non-stop flight

HO CHI MINH CITY – DELTA 4hr (193km)

TOUR CODE:

* VNRT005E

*English and other language speaking guides

Enjoy a day tour at the Imperial City of Hue a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Situated on the picturesque green banks of the Perfume River, with its pagodas, complex monuments, royal tombs, and citadels. Discover exotic culture and history in Vietnam’s former Royal Capital. Explore a demonstration of the power of the vanished Vietnamese empire as you visit the sites of Tu Duc Tomb, Old Imperial Citadel and the Forbidden Purple City.

DAY 5 // HUE – HOI AN

Embark on a relaxing boat ride along the Perfume River to the Thien Mu Pagoda. See the 7-tiered octagonal tower of Phuoc Duyen. Continue to the majestic Tomb of Emperor Minh Mang before heading to the city of Hoi An. Enjoy a scenic drive along Hai Van Pass or the “Sea Clouds Pass”, offering breathtaking landscape of verdant mountains and clear blue skies over looking Danang Bay. Stop en-route for a visit to Danang Cham Museum and see hundreds of ancient artifacts from the Cham Art Collection. Arrive in Hoi An.

DAY 8 // SAIGON & MEKONG DELTA

Witness a water world that moves rhythmically to the pulse of the mighty Mekong River where fruit-laden boats, quaint houses and markets float along the mud-waters of innumerable canals, narrow lanes and criss crossing streams. Get a real taste rural hospitality slowly sailing the Cai Be Floating Market. Continue through small canals and stop at Mekong River Islands where we will visit fruit orchards and the local cottage industry before returning to Vinh Long. Drive back for an overnight stay in Saigon.

DAY 9 // SAIGON DEPARTURE

Experience Vietnam’s largest city – where the old and the new blend seamlessly together. Enjoy a half-day tour of the city’s history and culture with stops such as the War Remnants Museum, Reunification Palace, Notre Dame Cathedral, the Central Post Office, Opera House and the City Hall. In the afternoon transfer to the airport.

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PRIVATE TOURS VIETNAM
PRIVATE TOUR NO MINIMUM PAX NUMBER

SA PA EXTENSION

3 DAYS / 2 NIGHTS

PRIVATE TOUR

NO MINIMUM PAX NUMBER

RECOMMENDED FOR:

* Culture seekers

* Nature Lovers

* Adventurers

TRANSPORTATION:

* Private transfer

* Bus

DEPARTURES:

* Daily

DISTANCES / TIME:

HANOI – LAO CAI

8hr (296km) overnight train

HIGHLIGHTS:

Learn more about the daily life of Black Hmong and Giay minorities

Discover the largest rice paddy terraced among Sa Pa area

Observe and experience how the local do planting and harvesting

Visit the colourful weekly markets of the different minorities

TOUR CODE:

* VNRT008E

*English and other language speaking guides

DAY 1 // HANOI – SA PA

Begin our journey with a scenic bus drive to the picturesque town of Sa Pa. From Sa Pa, we continue our drive South towards Muong Hoa Valley, where we will start our adventure on foot. As we descend in to valley, enjoy a spectacular sight of terraced rice fields, varying in colours from luscious greens, to golden silks depending on the season. Get to meet the friendly local ethnic groups of Black Hmong and Giay from the villages of Lao Chai and Ta Van. Learn how the locals cultivate rice farming techniques in this mountainous region whilst maintaining traditional agriculture techniques. Drive back to Sa Pa.

DAY 2 // SA PA

Explore Sa Pa’s vibrant buzzing markets teeming with crafts, antiques, fresh produce and exotic local delicacies. Enjoy a light trek into local villages to learn about their daily life.

DAY 3 // SA PA – HANOI

Early morning start with a drive to Taphin Village where you will meet the two largest Ethnic Groups in the region, the Black Hmong and Red Dao. See how two cultures live harmoniously whilst maintaining their own unique traditions. Witness their day to day life and marvel on the rich culture untouched by the modern civilisation. See eye-catching bright-colored patterns of traditional clothings and experience first hand the ancient way of creating their masterful handicrafts. Return to Sa Pa where a bus awaits for your transfer back to Hanoi.

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Hanoi – Sa Pa – Hanoi
VIETNAM
PRIVATE TOURS
34

PRIVATE TOURS

SOUTHERN DISCOVERY

8 DAYS / 7 NIGHTS

Ho Chi Minh City – Mekong Delta –Dalat – Phan Thiet

RECOMMENDED FOR:

* Culture seekers

* Nature Lovers

TRANSPORTATION:

* Private transfer

* Boat

DEPARTURES:

* Daily

DISTANCES / TIME:

HO CHI MINCH CITY – CU CHI TUNNELS 1hr 10min (31km)

HO CHI MINH CITY – MEKONG DELTA 4hr (200km)

HO CHI MINH CITY – DALAT 6hr (300km)

DALAT – PHAN THIET 3.5hr (160km)

HIGHLIGHTS:

Discovering the cosmopolitan Saigon city

Exploring verdant and fertile Mekong Delta

Experience romantic highland city of Dalat and the sun-drenched resorts of Phan Thiet

TOUR CODE:

* VNRT005E

*English and other language speaking guides

DAY 1 // HO CHI MINH CITY

Upon arrival at the airport, transfer to your hotel. The remaining day is at leisure.

DAY 2 // HO CHI MINH CITY

Today’s full day tour will take you around the city, from downtown Saigon to Chinatown. Learn about Saigon’s history and culture with stops at the History Museum and at the Thien Hau Pagoda. See other places of interest such as Notre Dame Cathedral, The Central Post Office, and the Reunification Palace. Take the rest of the time for shopping activities around Dong Khoi Street and Ben Thanh Market.

DAY 3 // HO CHI MINH CITY –CU CHI TUNNELS

Transfer to the Cu Chi Tunnels, an intricate network of over 200km-long tunnels located 75km from Ho Chi Minh City. Try a very short segment of this labyrinth of interlaced tunnels. In the afternoon, visit the biggest traditional medicine markets in the south. The tour continues with the Fito Museum, the first museum dedicated to traditional medicine in Vietnam.

DAY 4 // MEKONG DELTA

Take your private transfer to Mekong Delta in the early morning to embark the Mekong Eyes in Cai Be or Can Tho. Sit back and watch the fantastic scenery and the daily life of the Mekong people. In the afternoon you can disembark for a guided leisurely stroll through a village and the surrounding fruit orchards or rice fields. Meet the friendly locals and taste the local produce and fruits. Get back on board and enjoy a drink at the bar or relax on deck as the sun sets over the magnificent water landscape of the Mekong River. Stay overnight on board your floating hotel in the Mekong Delta. therapist to soothe your muscles.

DAY 5 // MEKONG DELTA – HO CHI MINH CITY

Wake up well rested to the sound of the river and get ready for another exciting day of sightseeing in the Mekong Delta. Watch the locals go about their daily work drying exotic fruits and building ships on the wooden yards while enjoying an early breakfast. Then board a sampan boat to Cai Be or Cai Rang floating market, the region’s busiest and most lively markets. Also visit some of the local candy and cake making factories or boat through the green water landscape to see local houses, verdant orchards and shipbuilding yards. Return to Saigon by private transfer.

DAY 6 // HO CHI MINH CITY –DALAT

Our tour guide and driver will pick you up in the morning at your hotel in Ho Chi Minh City then depart for Dalat. We will drive through scenic rubber and tea plantation farms en route to the cooler climes of Dalat, 300km from Saigon. Established as a hill station at the beginning of 20th century, Dalat is reminiscent of an Alpine town with its French chalets and pine forests. Upon arrival, check in the hotel and overnight in Dalat.

DAY 7 // DALAT

Breakfast at your hotel. Dalat is a romantic city with European-styled villas and pine forests in the Langbian Plateau at 1,500 meters (about 5000 feet). A morning tour of Dalat includes Dalat Flower Park, Domain de Marie monastery, Mong Mo Hill & Dalat jam enterprise. In the afternoon, you will visit Truc Lam Pagoda and Tuyen Lam Lake.

DAY 8 // DALAT – PHAN THIET

Visit Emperor Bao Dai’s Summer Palace, Xuan Huong Lake and Lam Ty Ni Pagoda. Transfer to Phan Thiet where this journey ends.

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VIETNAM
PRIVATE TOUR NO MINIMUM PAX NUMBER

PRIVATE TOURS

DAY 1 // HO CHI MINH CITY

Greetings on arrival in Saigon. The day is free for leisure or relaxation

DAY 2 // HO CHI MINH CITY

Discover Vietnam’s business and financial hub with its diverse culture, rich history, sleek skyscrapers, ornate temples and pagodas, classic French architecture, and a plethora of cuisines. Experience the vibe of this buzzing city as you walk from downtown Saigon to Chinatown. Learn about the past and present by visiting historic sites and landmarks such as the History Museum, and Thien Hau Temple, Notre Dame Cathedral, and the Municipal Office.

DAY 3 // MEKONG DELTA

DAY 6 // HOI AN – MY SON – HOI AN

Take a half day trip to My Son, the former capital of the ancient Cham Civilisation and see the Hindu-influenced stone structures, temples and tower ruins lying well preserved amidst tropical jungle surroundings. Return to Hoi An where the rest of the afternoon is free for your leisure.

DAY 7 // HOI AN – DANANG – HUE

Continue on road with a scenic drive along Hai Van Pass or the “Sea Clouds Pass”, offering breathtaking landscape of verdant mountains and clear blue skies over looking Danang Bay. Stop over Danang with a visit to the stone-carving village of Non Nuoc followed by a visit to the Cham Sculpture Museum. Arrive in city of Hue or in Phu Loc Province of Hue.

VIETNAM RELAXED

15 DAYS / 14 NIGHTS

Ho Chi Minh City – Mekong Delta

– Danang – Hoi An – My Son – Hue –Phu Loc - Hanoi – Halong Bay

RECOMMENDED FOR:

* Families

* Nature Lovers

* Culture Seekers

TRANSPORTATION:

* Private transfer

* Domestic flight

* Traditional Boat

* Cycling

* Cruise

Early morning transfer to Ben Tre for a full day excursion to the Mekong Delta. Discover a world afloat and explore the magical waterways of the Mekong on a wooden traditional boat. Experience daily life as you visit handicraft villages producing handmade bricks, a coconut processing household and a small rice noodle factory. Relax on a scenery of conical-hat wearing vendors selling an abundance of fruits, vegetables and products as you float along the river’s labyrinth of canals.

DAY 4 // HO CHI MINH CITY –DANANG

Transfer to airport for flight to Danang. Greetings on arrival and transfer to Hoi An. The rest of the day is free for leisure or relaxation.

DAY 5 // HOI AN

Discover Hoi An on this half day walking tour and see a well-preserved Southeast Asian trading port dotted with colorful building, temples and streets lined up with lanterns. Start with a visit to Hoi An’s old quarter to see the History Museum, Chinese Assembly Hall, the iconic Japanese covered bridge and a historic old house. The rest of the day is free for leisure.

DAY 8 // PHU LOC

Focus today in your mind, body and soul with a chance to participate in a Tai Chi or Yoga Class followed by a Spa treatment of your choice (optional). Afternoon free time at leisure. Overnight stay at Phu Loc or Hue.

DAY 9-10 // HUE

Enjoy a two day City Tour of Hue and discover the ancient imperial city and capital of the Nguyen Dynasty located along the banks of the Perfume River. See the ancient architectural grandeur of the Imperial Citadel, with its walled fortress. Visit remarkable tombs such as Tu Duc Tomb and palaces like the Thai Hoa Palace, all serving a reminder of a town once ruled by royalties. The following day, will involve a boat trip along the Perfume River on a traditional ‘Dragon boat’ to visit Thien Mu Pagoda situated on top of the Khe Hill followed by a visit to Minh Mang Tomb.

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VIETNAM
PRIVATE TOUR NO MINIMUM PAX NUMBER

PRIVATE TOURS VIETNAM

DAY 11-12 // HUE - HANOI

Airport transfer for flight to Hanoi. Welcome arrival and pick-up by your tourguide and enjoy a two day stay in Hanoi. Explore a charming city of lakes, shaded boulevards, public parks dotted with French colonial buildings and historical monuments amidst blaring horns and streets surging with scooters.

Enjoy a half day City tour with visits to the Ba Dinh Square Presidential Palace, One-Pillar Pagoda, temple of Literature, Hoan Kiem Lake and Ngoc Son Temple. End the day with a stroll through the historic Old Quarters to get a good feel of Vietnamese culture, streets where you can find anything from precious stones to silk kimonos.

The following day we will attend a Cooking Class at Hoa Sua School where you will first start buying fresh ingredient at the local market then get to enjoy preparing and ofcourse sampling authentic Vietnamese Cuisine. The afternoon is free for leisure.

DAY 13-15 // HANOI - HALONG BAY (3-DAY CRUISE)

Transfer by road to Halong Bay where you will embark on a 3-day tranquil cruise over Halong Bay with its breathtaking scenery of countless rugged limestone islets rising above azure waters. Visit some magical grottoes and relax as you sail through a backdrop of sunset and sunrise. Get a chance to explore the islands around with visits to Vung Vieng floating village on a traditional bamboo boat, a guided cycling or walking tour at Cat Ba Island and a visit to Sung Sot Cave. Disembark on the boat after brunch to return back to Hanoi, on the way visiting an old pottery village. Transfer to airport for departure flight home to end an adventurous trip.

VIETNAM RELAXED

15 DAYS / 14 NIGHTS

Ho Chi Minh City – Mekong Delta –Danang – Hoi An – My Son – Hue –Phu Loc - Hanoi – Halong Bay

DISTANCE / TIME

HO CHI MINH CITY – BEN TRE 2.5hr (150km)

HO CHI MINH CITY – DANANG 1hr 20min non-stop flight

HOI AN – HUE (VIA DANANG) 3.5hr (120km)

HUE – PHU LOC 1hr (40km)

HUE – HANOI 1hr 10min non-stop flight

HANOI – HA LONG BAY 3hr (156km)

TOUR CODE:

* VNRT021E

*English and other language speaking guides

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PRIVATE TOURS

CENTRAL DISCOVERY

5 DAYS / 4 NIGHTS

PRIVATE TOUR

NO MINIMUM PAX NUMBER

RECOMMENDED FOR:

* Culture seekers

* Nature Lovers

TRANSPORTATION:

* Private transfer

* Bus

* Dragon Boa

DEPARTURES:

* Daily

DISTANCES / TIME:

HUE – HOI AN (VIA DANANG)

3hr (140km)

HOI AN – DANANG 50min (29km)

HIGHLIGHTS:

Enjoy truly Hue experiences with food, heritage, and peaceful countryside lifestyle.

Learn more about Vietnam war period by visiting Demilitarized zone.

Visit Cham museum and My Son sanctuary to know more about an ancient kingdom in Central Vietnam.

A free day to enjoy Hoi An’s ancient town.

TOUR CODE:

* VNRT005E

*English and other language speaking guides

DAY 1 // HUE

Arrival in Hue, Vietnam’s feudal capital from 1802 to 1945 under the Nguyen dynasty. It is widely known for the magnificent architecture of its citadels, palaces, royal tombs, pagodas and temples set in a poetic background of greenery on the banks of the Perfume River. The remaining day is at leisure.

DAY 2 // HUE

In the morning you board a traditional Dragon Boat for a 40 minutes ride on the Perfume River to the Thien Mu Pagoda, which overlooks the river. Then visit the Citadel at the Imperial Palace. Entering the citadel via a stone bridge you can see the Thai Hoa Palace, an important venue for official receptions and other important court ceremonies. In the afternoon you visit the tomb of Tu Duc, which is one of the most beautiful works of royal architecture of the Nguyen dynasty. On the way back, stop at a village well-known for its production of incense sticks and conical hats.

DAY 3 // HUE – DANANG – HOI AN

After breakfast transfer via Hai Van Pass from Hue to Hoi An with a visit of the Cham Museum in Danang en route. The Cham Museum, housed in a classical French

colonial building in Danang, has the finest collection of Cham sculpture in the world. Upon arrival in Hoi An check in at your hotel. Hoi An was one of the orient’s major trading ports in the 16th and 17th centuries. A walking tour is the best way to see the wooden-fronted houses that once belonged to the towns’ prosperous merchants, the Japanese- covered Bridge and the wonderful market. It is one of the best places in Vietnam to shop for souvenirs at bargain prices including silk, handicrafts, antiques and paintings.

DAY 4 // HOI AN

In the morning you’ll have a half day excursion to My Son, the former capital of the ancient Cham civilization that ruled central Vietnam from the 2nd to 13th century. The Cham religion was primarily derived from Indian Hinduism. My Son is considered to be one of the bestpreserved Cham structures in Vietnam. The complex is comprised of 70 Hindu-like towers and temples dating from the second century. This site is a must-see for anyone interested in architecture and ancient civilization and is one of five UNESCO World Heritage sites in Vietnam.

DAY 5 // HOI AN – DANANG

Transfer to the Danang airport for departure.

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Hue – Hoi An – Danang
VIETNAM

NORTHERN DISCOVERY

8 DAYS / 7 NIGHTS

PRIVATE TOUR NO MINIMUM PAX NUMBER

Hanoi – Lao Cai – Sa Pa – Halong Bay – Cat Ba – Ninh Binh – Hanoi

RECOMMENDED FOR:

* Culture seekers

* Nature Lovers

* Adventurers

TRANSPORTATION:

* Private transfer

* Bus

DEPARTURES:

* Daily

DISTANCES / TIME:

HANOI – LAO CAI 8hr (296km) overnight train

LAO CAI – SA PA 1hr (31km)

HANOI – NINH BINH 2hr (105km)

NINH BINH – HALONG BAY 3.5hr (192km)

HALONG BAY – CAT BA 45min (19.6km)

HALONG BAY – HANOI 3hr (156km)

DAY 1 // HANOI

Meet and greet your guide upon arrival in Hanoi. Free leisure for the rest of the day.

DAY 2 // HANOI – LAO CAI

Discover the ancient capital city, managing to retain its charm and elegance, amidst blaring horns and streets surging with scooters. Explore the city’s well preserved colonial buildings, ancient pagodas and unique museums. Starting at the city’s centrepiece, Hoan Kiem Lake, see within the Ngoc Son Temple. Continue to see Ho Chi Minh’s Museum and One Pillar Pagoda, followed by a visit to the Museum of Ethnology and the Temple of Literature. Feel as if you have travelled back in time with a visit to the Old Quarters as you walk around the narrow streets full of antique brick houses. End the tour with a fun one-hour downtown pedicab ride. Board an overnight train to Lao Cai with shared cabins.

DAY 3 // LAO CAI – SA PA

Early morning arrival and pick up at Lao Cai Train Station. Continue our journey by road to the Silver Waterfall, surrounded by mountains and lush forests belonging to Hoang Lien National Park. See the highest stretch of road in Vietnam as you basks on the scenic views of the valley and feel the climate changing as we continue to drive uphill to the Heavens Gate, the provincial border. Arrive at Sa Pa where the rest of the day is free for leisure.

DAY 4 // SA PA – LAO CAI – HANOI

Experience all things exotic with a walk through the Sa Pa Market. Follow the road downhill to Cat Cat Village and see ethnic groups in colorful pieces of brocade. Continue the scenic trekking through a dirt trail along a narrow river amidst rice paddy terraces and waterfalls. Enjoy lunch at Y Linh Ho village of Black Hmong ethnic group. Pass by the village of Lao Cai and Tavan to continue our trek towards Muong Hoa Valley. Return to Sa Pa and to Lao Cai to board an overnight train back to Hanoi.

DAY 5 // HANOI – HALONG BAY

Early morning arrival at Hanoi followed by pick up and transfer to Halong Bay pier. Embark on a two day tranquil cruise along Halong Bay and marvel on the magnificent scenery of countless rugged limestone islets rising above azure waters.

DAY 6 // HALONG BAY – CAT BA

Disembark in the late morning back to Halong Bay where we will board another boat to the rugged and jungle-clad island of Cat Ba. Take a short drive to Cat Ba National Park, a place noted for its mangroves, subtropical evergreen forests and freshwater lakes. After this adventure, we will check in the hotel and if time permits, visit Cannon Fort to find the perfect spot for a panoramic view of Cat Ba Island.

PRIVATE TOURS VIETNAM
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DAY 7 // CAT BA – NINH BINH

Early morning pick up from hotel for transfer to the pier where a speedboat ride to Hai Phong awaits. From here we will continue our journey to Ninh Binh known as ‘inland Halong Bay”, a small city in the Red River Delta of northern Vietnam. On our way, stop by the ancient imperial capital of Hoa Lu to visit two surviving temples commemorating King Dinh Tien Hoang and King Le Dai Hanh. Take a small wooden boat ride downstream to Trang An grottoes. See mountains connected by rice paddies, countless caves and valleys as you sail serenely along peaceful waters.

DAY 8 // NINH BINH – HANOI

Explore Vietnam’s rich wildlife with a visit to the Endangered Primate Rescue Center located in Cuc Phuong National Park and learn about the conservation efforts to protect, rescue, rehabilitate and release rare and threatened primates. Trek through a trail of lush jungle and prehistoric caves, and see evidence of previous ancient civilisation with preserved prehistoric tools and ancient tombs. Drive back to Hanoi

in the early afternoon.Enjoy a half day City tour with visits to the Ba Dinh Square Presidential Palace, One-Pillar Pagoda, temple of Literature, Hoan Kiem Lake and Ngoc Son Temple. End the day with a stroll through the historic Old Quarters to get a good feel of Vietnamese culture, streets where you can find anything from precious stones to silk kimonos.

The following day we will attend a Cooking Class at Hoa Sua School where you will first start buying fresh ingredient at the local market then get to enjoy preparing and ofcourse sampling authentic Vietnamese Cuisine. The afternoon is free for leisure.

VIETNAM RELAXED

8 DAYS / 7 NIGHTS

Hanoi – Lao Cai – Sa Pa – Halong Bay – Cat Ba – Ninh Binh – Hanoi

HIGHLIGHTS:

Discovering the vast and splendid National Park of Cat Ba Island and Cuc Phuong

Observing the spectacular limestone landscape of Halong Bay and Dry Halong Bay

TOUR CODE:

* VNRT004E

*English and other language speaking guides

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PRIVATE TOURS

DAY 1 // HO CHI MINH CITY

Arrival in Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon). Take a brief sightseeing tour in Ho Chi Minh City, visiting the Presidential Palace, Notre Dame Cathedral, Old Saigon Post Office, Dong Khoi Street, Opera House, City Hall, and History Museum. Overnight in Ho Chi Minh City.

DAY 2 // HO CHI MINH CITY - CAT TIEN NATIONAL PARK

Transfer to Nam Cat Tien National Park. Arrival at the park in the late morning and start your wildlife experience. Afternoon, begin a 2hr trek through the Reserved Core Area. We will see many kinds of hundreds of years old trees. Enjoy a picnic lunch. In the evening, you’ll join the night safari with 2hr cruise into the jungle on a jeep. If you are lucky, you may hear the calls of rhinoceros in the area, or see the wild animals drinking from the water nearby. Overnight at guesthouse.

time to explore the city on your own before a typical royal court dinner with a presentation of ancient dancing and music is arranged in the evening.

DAY 6 // HUE - DANANG – HOI AN

In the morning have breakfast and check out. You will visit the tomb of Tu Duc before heading to Hoi An via the stunning Hai Van Pass. Overnight in Hoi An.

DAY 7 // HOI AN - DANANG –HANOI

EXPERIENCE NATURE

14 DAYS / 13 NIGHTS

Ho Chi Minh City: Cat Tien National Park – Hue – Danang/Hoi An –Hanoi – Halong: Cat Ba National Park – Cuc Phuong National Park

RECOMMENDED FOR:

* Families

* Nature Lovers

* Culture Seekers

TRANSPORTATION:

* Private transfer

* Domestic flight

* Cruise

* Traditional Boat

DAY 3 // CAT TIEN NATIONAL PARK

After breakfast, drive to visit Thac Troi (Heaven waterfall) and Bang Lang forest. Transfer to the Crocodile lake for boat rowing and to view the sunset. Dinner and overnight at the guest house nearby the lake.

DAY 4 // CAT TIEN NATIONAL PARK – HO CHI MINH CITY

Today, you will have another 5 km walking back to the Crocodile Lake T-junction. Then, drive back to the Headquarters for lunch. Check out of the park and drive back to Saigon. Depart for Ho Chi Minh City after lunch.

DAY 5 // HO CHI MINH CITY – HUE

Transfer to the airport in Ho Chi Minh City. Flight to Hue. Arrival in Hue, pick-up and transfer. The afternoon tour focuses on the Imperial Citadel, built in 1804, and the Dong Ba Market, famous throughout Vietnam for its conical hats. You have

We start the walking tour at the Culture and History Museum where you will learn about the history of this charming and peaceful town before you walk around the small market. Walk along the main street to the Chinese Assembly Hall. Next we’ll stop to see the Japanese covered bridge built in the early 17th century. We finish with a visit to a historic old house of this UNESCOrecognized town. Transfer to the airport for a short flight to Hanoi. Pick up and transfer to Hanoi. Overnight in Hanoi.

DAY 8 // HANOI - HAI PHONG - CAT BA

Pick up at the hotel and depart for Hai Phong via a newly built road. Hai Phong serves as the primary seaport of the country. Have lunch en route. On arrival to Hai Phong, board a speed hydrofoil to Cat Ba island (1 hour). Once in Cat Ba, drive to the center of the island and trek (ca. 45 minutes) to the mountains to observe the stunning views of unspoiled nature emerging form Cat Ba National Park. Overnight in Cat Ba.

DAY 9 // CAT BA – HALONG

In the morning, transfer to the pier to take a boat depart at 09.00am for Tuan Chau or Hon Gai pier. Board a junk for cruising through the magnificent Halong Bay, a World Heritage site. Spend the time viewing the spectacular scenery of countless rock formations. Enjoy the wonderful taste of freshly served seafood on board at lunch and dinner. In the evening, a kayak ride in phosphorescent water is optional. Overnight on board.

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DAY 10 // HALONG BAY – CUC PHUONG NATIONAL PARK

The morning features an exciting exploration of Halong Bay. Relish the tranquillity of nature from the upper deck and visit some magic caves. In the afternoon, transfer to Cuc Phuong (120 km) across fascinating countryside of the Red River Delta. Cuc Phuong National Park is home to 2,000 species of flora, 1,800 species of insects, 320 species of birds, 70 species of mammals, etc. Overnight in Cuc Phuong.

DAY 11 // CUC PHUONG NATIONAL PARK

Escorted by a park guide, depart for a full-day trek to see giant trees of 50 m high. Transfer by car to the park centre (20 km), stop by a prehistoric cave and the Vu Huong tree (Cinamomum balansae) en route. Take a trek (6 km) to the 1,000-year-old tree (Terminalia myriocarapa) on a scenic trail. Have a picnic lunch at the park centre. In the afternoon, continue to trek (8 km) to the Dang tree on a steep trail through a dense jungle.

DAY 12 // CUC PHUONG NATIONAL PARK – HANOI

In the morning, visit the park museum, the botanical garden with a collection of 252 species of rare plants and the endangered primate rescue centre, followed by a seminar on primate rescue. In the afternoon, transfer back to Hanoi. Overnight in Hanoi.

DAY 13 // HANOI

Welcome to Hanoi, Vietnam’s capital city of tree-lined streets and centuriesold temples. The morning sightseeing tour features both cultural and historical highlights, comprising the Temple of Literature, the Ethnology Museum (Monday – closed), the old quarter and a pedicab ride (around 1 hour).

Afternoon – Free time for your own activities. Overnight in Hanoi.

DAY 14 // HANOI

Spend the last morning shopping downtown (ceramics, silver-carvings, silk, ...) or at leisure before check-out (late check out is not included). Transfer to the airport for departure.

EXPERIENCE NATURE

Ho Chi Minh City: Cat Tien National Park – Hue – Danang/Hoi An –Hanoi – Halong: Cat Ba National Park – Cuc Phuong National Park

DISTANCE / TIME

HO CHI MINH CITY – CAT TIEN NATIONAL PARK

3hr 45min (163km)

HO CHI MINH CITY – HUE 1hr 20min non-stop flight

HUE – HOI AN (VIA DANANG) 3.5hr (120km)

DANANG – HANOI

1hr 10min non-stop flight

HANOI – HAI PHONG (CAT BA) 2.5hr (125km)

HALONG BAY – HANOI

3hr (172km)

HANOI – CUC PHUONG 3hr (130km)

TOUR CODE:

* VNRT0105E

*English and other language speaking guides

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PRIVATE TOURS

DAY 1 // HANOI

Upon arrival at the airport, transfer to your hotel with guide. Then enjoy a half-day city tour to see Ba Dinh Square, Ho Chi Minh’s former residence, Presidential Palace, Onepillar Pagoda, Temple of Literature, Hoan Kiem Lake, and Ngoc Son Temple.

DAY 2 // HANOI – KY SON

Departure from Hanoi in the morning with guide to Moon Garden Homestay in Ky Son village. Welcome drink with local fresh green tea. Join a cooking class and lunch. After lunch, you’ll join a unique hand spa: your fingers will be dipped in a fragrant lime bowl and the traditional herbal hand massage. After that take a bicycle ride to discover the Ky Son, Tam Son, Van Minh, and Cham farming communities and stop at any home you like for a cup of tea. Chat with local people about their daily life and farming. In the late Afternoon return to the Moon Garden for happy hour and a traditional steam bath. Dinner and overnight in Moon Garden Homestay.

mountains, waterfalls and the deep valleys. The trails will soon lead you to the Red Dao village of Nam Nhiu, here you will meet the villagers, enjoy a cup of green tea in their house and learn about their daily way of life. Then take another scenic trek to Nam Cang village for lunch. You may also want to take a swim in the river. In the earlier afternoon, you’ll transfer to the station for the express train back to Hanoi.

DAY 6 // HANOI – HALONG BAY

Drive to Halong Bay, a picturesque bay with almost 2,000 islets rising from the clear emerald waters of the Gulf of Tonkin. Cruise for 2 days in the tranquility of Halong Bay. Overnight on board.

DAY 7 // HALONG – HANOI – HUE

Continue cruising and disembark in the late morning at Halong. Visit Dong Trieu potter’s village on the way. Transfer to Hanoi airport and fly to Hue. Transfer from Hue airport to hotel.

DAY 8 // HUE

A DEEPER INSIGHT

15 DAYS / 14 NIGHTS

DAY 3 // KY SON – HANOI

In the morning before breakfast you can try the traditional Chinese exercise Yijinjingin and enjoy the view of the lake. After breakfast relax in a hammock in the garden before transfering back to hanoi.

In the evening, you’ll l enjoy the water puppet show, created during the Ly Dynasty (1009-1224), in which the artists controlling the puppets stand in water behind the stage door. Overnight in Hanoi.

Full day city tour by dragon boat to Thien Mu Pagoda, the Citadel at the Imperial Palace (with one-hour pedicab ride), the tombs of Emperors Tu Duc and Khai Dinh. Stop at a village along the way before returning to hotel for the evening.

DAY 9 // HUE – DANANG – HOI AN

Hanoi – Ky Son - Sapa – Halong – Hue –Hoi An – Saigon – Mekong Delta

RECOMMENDED FOR:

* Culture Seekers

* Nature Lovers

TRANSPORTATION:

* Private transfer

* Domestic flight

* Cruise

* Traditional Boat

* Train

DAY 4 // HANOI – SA PA

From early in the morning, take an express train (5hr) to Topas Ecolodge. In the afternoon, take a walk around the lodge on a quiet road with a great view of the rice terraces. You then take a slightly ascent to Lech village where you will visit a local house, meet the friendly Red Dao hosts and experience their daily way of life. On the way back to Topas Ecolodge, you will walk on small trails passing rice terraces and cross a suspension bridge, where you can take some great pictures of the landscape. Back at the lodge, you may want to try a traditional Red Dao herbal bath at the spa (on own account). Overnight at Topas Ecolodge.

DAY 5 // SA PA – HANOI

Explore the most remote area of Sapa today. Transfer deep into Hoang Lien National Park to the trek starting point near Sin Chai village. See beautiful views of high

In the morning drive from Hue to Hoi An over the cloudy pass (3 hours). Visit the Cham museum. In Hoi An check in im Hotel. After pick-up from your hotel in Hoi An you will ride by bicycle through a village with simple homes to the lantern-making house where people produce the typical colorful lanterns. Workers in the house will explain which lanterns are made in Japanese or Vietnamese or Chinese styles before you sit on a short stool next to a young worker who helps you make a small lantern that you can keep after the lesson.

DAY 10 // HOI AN

Discover Hoi An on this half day walking tour and see a well-preserved Southeast Asian trading port dotted with colorful building, temples and streets lined up with lanterns. Start with a visit to Hoi An’s old quarter to see the History Museum, Chinese Assembly Hall, the iconic Japanese covered bridge and a historic old house. The rest of the day is free for leisure.

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DAY 11 // HOI AN

Today you will discover the peaceful countryside village of Hoi An. Experience an unique adventure and join the Wet Rice Farmer tour. Start the day by riding a water buffalo and then take part in plough, raking, sowing, planting, grinding and separating the rice and making rice flour. You can use the afternoon to discover the beaches of Hoi An.

DAY 12 // HOI AN - DANANGSAIGON

In the morning transfer to Danang for your flight to Saigon. Transfer from airport to hotel in Saigon with guide. Half day city tour in Saigon. Visit the Reunification Palace, Thien Hau Temple, Notre Dame Cathedral (closed for renovation, only from outside) and the Municipal Post Office: The tour will take you around the busiest city of Vietnam, from downtown Saigon to Chinatown, in order to get a general view of a developing city. You will not only learn about the past but also get a glimpse of the daily life. Overnight in Saigon.

DAY 13 // SAIGON - MEKONG DELTA

Head 2hrs southwest of Saigon to Cai Lay.

Board a charming wooden boat to enjoy countryside scenery and river life. Hop on a local bicycle for a lovely ride of about 7 km along narrow, shade covered village lanes. Then relax and enjoy the view from a small sampan boat as you are paddled slowly along idyllic canals. Disembark and continue your ride to a local home for a home-hosted lunch of Mekong Delta specialties. After lunch, keep riding to a garden house where you will spend the night with a friendly family. This evening, help the family to prepare traditional dessert dishes before savoring an authentic home-style dinner.

DAY 14 // MEKONG DELTASAIGON

Your day starts with a simple breakfast before pedaling back to a tea house to embark your boat for one-hour boat ride to Cai Be. Upon arrival, visit the colourful floating market. Disembark and visit some local industry cottages before proceeding to an ancient house for lunch.

DAY 15 // SAIGON

Transfer to the Saigon airport for departure.

VIETNAM RELAXED

15 DAYS / 14 NIGHTS

Hanoi – Ky Son - Sapa – Halong –Hue – Hoi An – Saigon – Mekong Delta

DISTANCE / TIME

HANOI – SA PA 5hr (296km) high speed train

HANOI – KY SON 1hr (59km)

HANOI – HA LONG BAY 3hr (156km)

HANOI – HUE

1hr 10min non-stop flight

HUE – HOI AN 3hr (120km)

HO CHI MINH CITY – DANANG 1hr 20min non-stop flight

HO CHI MINH CITY – MEKONG DELTA 4hr (193km)

TOUR CODE:

* VNRT007E

*English and other language speaking guides

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+84(0) 235 3950 777 | info@hotelroyalhoian.vn | hotelroyal-hoian.com | 39 Dao Duy Tu St.,
Nestled alongside the time-honored Hoi An Old Quarter and overlooking the idyllic Thu Bon River, Hotel Royal Hoi An – MGallery is a 5-star boutique hotel in the heart of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Reliving the captivating love story spanning centuries past, Hotel Royal Hoi An – MGallery impresses all by exquisite furnishings and stunning artistic touches. Your experience will be enchanting, whether it's a romantic getaway, a family vacation or an unforgettable event at Hotel Royal Hoi An – MGallery.
Hoi An, Quang Nam - Vietnam

DAY 1 // HANOI

Meet and greet your guide upon arrival and transfer to hotel. Remaining day at leisure.

DAY 2 // HANOI

Visit Ngoc Son Temple inside Hoan Kiem Lake, Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum, the OnePillar Pagoda, the Museum of Ethnology (closed on Monday), the Temple of Literature, and the old quarters. Conclude the day with a one-hour downtown pedicab ride.

DAY 3 // HANOI

After breakfast, immerse yourserlf deep into the local culture with a 2hr survival Vietnamese language session. In the afternoon, visit the the house of the most famous water puppet artisan who devoted more than 20 years of his life to water puppets. The 4th floor of his home is a “mini-home theatre” where he can introduce you the unique traditional art form of Vietnamese water puppetry. View a small show and try the puppets yourself in this unique behind-the-scenes experience.

PRIVATE TOURS

miles) from Hue, this tomb is the final resting place of Emperor Tu Duc (184883). Then visit to the tomb of Khai Dinh, Emperor of Vietnam from 1916 to 1925. The tomb is located on the slope of Chau Chu Mountain, about 10km (6 miles) from Hue, and represents a fusion of traditional Vietnamese style and modern influence. On the way back to your hotel stop at a village that is known for its production of incense and conical hats.

DAY 8 // HUE

VIETNAM INTENSIVE

19 DAYS / 18 NIGHTS

PRIVATE TOUR

NO MINIMUM PAX NUMBER

Hanoi – Halong Bay – Ninh Binh –Hue – Hoi An – Danang/Nha Trang –Da Lat – Ho Chi Minh City – Mekong Delta

RECOMMENDED FOR:

* Culture Seekers

* Nature Lovers

TRANSPORTATION:

* Private transfer

* Domestic flight

* Traditional Boat

* Cruise

DAY 4 // HANOI – HALONG BAY

Transfer to Halong Bay in the morning. Board a cruise for 2 days in the tranquillity of the karst mountains of Halong Bay. Overnight on board.

DAY 5 // HALONG BAY – NINH BINH

Discover Hoi An on this half day walking tour and see a well-preserved Southeast Asian trading port dotted with colorful building, temples and streets lined up with lanterns. Start with a visit to Hoi An’s old quarter to see the History Museum, Chinese Assembly Hall, the iconic Japanese covered bridge and a historic old house. The rest of the day is free for leisure.

DAY 6 // NINH BINH – HANOI

Ninh Binh, some 100km (62 miles) south of Hanoi, offers a world of natural wonders and cultural heritage. Stop by Hoa Lu, the capital of Vietnam in the 10th century, known to travellers as Vietnam’s ‘inland Halong Bay.’ After visiting two temples, enjoy a boat trip to the Trang An grottoes, which is a gathering of 31 valleys, 50 crosswater caves, 600 kinds of flora, and over 200 kinds of fauna.

DAY 7 // HANOI – HUE

Transfer to the airport and flight to Hue. Upon arrival, visit the tomb of Tu Duc. In a sprawling lush pine forest 8km (5

Start a cycling tour along Le Loi Street, crossing the Truong Tien Bridge, and continuing to the bustling Dong Ba Market. Proceed along Dong Ba River to Bao Vinh, a former trading port of Ancient Hue. After cycling through the green fields, stop to visit the Imperial Citadel. Afterwards, cycle along the famous Perfume River to An Hien Garden House. Leaving the garden house, you will continue cycling to visit Thien Mu pagoda. Board the Dragon boat from here and cruise along Perfume River to return to the city in the stunning sunset scene. After arrival at the pier, pedal back to Hue.

DAY 9 // HUE - HOI AN

In the morning transfer to Hoi An. Enjoy the stunning views on the coast by crossing the Hai Van Pass. Check in at your hotel. In the afternoon visit of Hoi An’s old quarter with History Museum, Chinese Assembly Hall, Japanese covered bridge and historic old house (3hr walking tour).

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DAY 10 // HOI AN

Enjoy a half day trip to My Son, the former capital of the ancient Cham civilization that ruled central Vietnam from the 2nd to 13th century. My Son is considered to be one of the best-preserved Cham structures in Vietnam. The complex is comprised of 70 Hindu-like towers and temples dating from the second century.

DAY 11 // HOI AN – DANANG –NHA TRANG

In the morning transfer to the airport Danang and flight to Nha Trang. Nha Trang has fine beaches, islands and mountain views. Upon arrival, visit the Po Nagar Temple and the Xombong bridge with its photogenic, colourful fishing fleet. Afterwards continue with the Long Son Pagoda which was originally built in the 19th century. It houses a huge, white Buddha statute that can be seen from all over the city.

DAY 12 // NHA TRANG – DA LAT

In the morning transfer to Dalat with a visit of the Po Klong Garai tower on the way. It was built in honor of the legendary king Po Klaung Garai by the historic King Jaya Simhavarman III, who ruled Champa in the 13th century. In the afternoon you continue with your sightseeing in Dalat including the Valley of Love, the cremellaire railway station, Bao Dais Summer Palace and the French district.

DAY 13 // DA LAT

Enjoy a cooking class experience at Ana Mandara Villas. Learn how to prepare a traditional Vietnamese dish from a local expert. Dalat is known as a small France in Vietnam. Discover a beautiful waterfall and the fine arts complex where craftswomen produce handmade embroidered pictures on silk. See the Flower Garden and Dalat’s most unusual site: the Hang Nga Art Gallery, nicknamed the ‘Crazy House.’

DAY 14 // DA LAT – HO CHI MINH CITY

In the morning flight from Dalat to Ho Chi Minh City. Visit the Tay Ninh Great Temple in the time for its noontide prayer service. Then make a stop at the ‘underground village ‘ in Cu Chi District, which features an intricate network of over 200km-long tunnels. Try a very short segment of this labyrinth before heading back.

DAY 15 // HO CHI MINH CITY

Explore Ho Chi Minh City. Stop at the

History Museum and at the Thien Hau Pagoda. Then visit the biggest traditional medicine market in the south. See the Notre Dame Cathedral, the Central Post Office, and the Reunification Palace. Then shop around Dong Khoi Street and Ben Thanh Market.

DAY 16 // HO CHI MINH CITY

Enjoy a walking Street Food Tour with Chef at Hoa Tuc. The Chef will bring you first to a very local market and then to our favourite street vendors and “cantines” to sample at least 4 Vietnamese delicacies: fresh fruits, snack, local drinks and desserts. On our way we will visit the biggest flower market, a Cao Dai temple and many charming places! In the afternoon, you will visit the Fito Museum, the first museum dedicated to traditional medicine in Vietnam.

DAY 17 // HO CHI MINH CITY –DELTA

Drive out to the Mekong Delta in the early morning to embark on the ‘Mekong Eyes. Sit back and watch the fantastic scenery and the daily life of the Mekong people. In the afternoon you can disembark for a guided leisurely stroll through a village and the surrounding fruit orchards or rice fields. Stay overnight on the cruise.

DAY 18 // DELTA – HO CHI MINH CITY

Wake up to a beautiful sunrise aboard the cruise vessel. Watch the locals drying exotic fruits and building ships on the wooden yards. Then board a sampan boat to Cai Be or Cai Rang floating market, the region’s busiest and most lively markets. We will pull up to the boats for talking and bargaining with the merchants. Then visit some of the local candy factories or boat through the water landscape to see local houses, orchards and more. Return to Ho Chi Minh City in the afternoon.

DAY 19 // HO CHI MINH CITY

Transfer to the airport for your flight back home or to another destination. Or book your individual Beach extension.

VIETNAM RELAXED

19 DAYS / 18 NIGHTS

Hanoi – Halong Bay – Ninh Binh – Hue – Hoi An – Danang/Nha

Trang – Da Lat – Ho Chi Minh City –Mekong Delta

DISTANCE / TIME:

HANOI – HALONG BAY 3hr (156km)

HALONG BAY – NINH BINH 3hr (0km

NINH BINH – HANOI 2.5hr (150km)

HANOI – HUE

1hr 10min non-stop flight

HUE – HOI AN 3hr (120km)

DANANG – NHA TRANG 1hr 5min non-stop flight

NHA TRANG – DALAT 3hr (134km)

DALAT – HO CHI MINH CITY 55min non-stop flight

HO CHI MINH CITY – DELTA 3hr (120km)

HIGHLIGHTS:

Experience Vietnam relaxed – that’s the target of this tour

No stress with any daily hotel change as we stay 2 nights in each destination, no early morning flights, some leisure inbetween, several specials - you also do more than just the usual sightseeing

And of course in Ha Long Bay you will also spend 2 nights on a cruise ship

TOUR CODE:

* VNRT006E

*English and other language speaking guides

www.focusasia.group 49

PRIVATE TOURS

DAY 1 // HANOI – HALONG BAY

Meet and greet your guide upon arrival and transfer directly to Halong Bay.

DAY 2 // HALONG BAY – HANOI

Halong is a picturesque bay with almost 2,000 islets rising from the clear emerald waters of the Gulf of Tonkin. Cruise for four hours in the tranquillity of Halong Bay and visit two limestone caves with colourful stalagmites and stalactites, an unforgettable experience. Enjoy a lunch of fresh seafood, served on board. Afterwards return to Hanoi.

DAY 3 // HANOI – HUE

Afterwards, transfer to Hoi An via the Hai Van Pass with a visit of the Cham Museum. The Cham Museum, housed in a classical French colonial building in Danang, has the finest collection of Cham sculpture in the world.

DAY 6 // HOI AN – HO CHI MINH CITY

A TASTE OF VIETNAM

7 DAYS / 6 NIGHTS

Hanoi – Halong Bay – Hue – Hoi An – Ho Chi Minh City

RECOMMENDED FOR:

* Families

* Nature Lovers

* Cultural Seekers

TRANSPORTATION:

* Private transfer

* Domestic flight

* Cruise

* Traditional Boat

TOUR CODE:

* VNRT001E

*English and other language speaking guides

Hanoi is a city of lakes, shaded boulevards and public parks dotted with French-style buildings and historical monuments. During the half-day city tour, you’ll see cultural and historical highlights, comprising Ba Dinh Square, Ho Chi Minh’s former residence, Presidential Palace, One-pillar Pagoda, Temple of Literature, Hoan Kiem Lake, and Ngoc Son Temple. The tour gives you time for shopping and socializing with the local people. Transfer to airport with guide for flight to Hue.

DAY 4 // HUE

Enjoy sightseeing in Hue including a visit of the Imperial Palace on a cyclo, and the tomb of the emperor Tu Duc. A one-hour pedicab ride gives you a chance to assess the size of the citadel and to watch the daily life of people living in its boundaries. Afterwards, stroll around Dong Ba Market and explore the merchants and their unique products.

DAY 5 // HUE – HOI AN

Board a traditional ‘Dragon Boat’ for a 40min ride on the Perfume River to the Thien Mu Pagoda, considered to be the symbol of Hue.

Start your walking tour at the Culture and History Museum, learning about the history of this charming and peaceful town. Walk along the main street to the Chinese Assembly Hall of Fujien Chinese community. The hall, built in 1697, has been used as the worshipping place to dedicate to Thien Hau (the Goddess of the Sea or Holy Mother) and also the meeting place for the Fujien Chinese community. Continue to the riverbank along narrow streets – on both sides are old houses transformed into beautifully decorated shops with colourful lanterns in different shapes. Next, we’ll stop to see the Japanese covered bridge built in the early 17th century by Japanese traders who settled in the town. The special pagoda-shaped bridge is now the official symbol of Hoi An. Finish the tour with a visit to a historic old house of this UNESCO - recognized town. Transfer to the Danang airport with guide for departure flight to Ho Chi Minh City.

DAY 7 // HO CHI MINH CITY

Enjoy a half day tour through colonial Saigon. The tour will take you through the busiest city of Vietnam for an overview of a rapidly developing city. You will learn its history and culture with stops at the History Museum and Notre Dame Cathedral (closed for renovation until 2019 TBA, but still possible to admire its beauty from outside), the Central Post Office and the Old Town Hall. Take the rest of the time for shopping activities around Dong Khoi Street and Ben Thanh Market. Transfer to the airport for your departure.

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VIETNAM
PRIVATE TOUR NO MINIMUM PAX NUMBER

HANOI HALONG EXPLORER

5 DAYS / 4 NIGHTS

Hanoi - Halong Bay

RECOMMENDED FOR:

* Culture seekers

* Nature Lovers

* Adventurers

TRANSPORTATION:

* Private transfer

* Bus

DEPARTURES:

* Daily

DISTANCES / TIME:

HANOI – HALONG BAY

3hr (156km)

HIGHLIGHTS:

Learn more about the daily life of Black Hmong and Giay minorities

Discover the largest rice paddy terraced among Sa Pa area

Observe and experience how the local do planting and harvesting

Visit the colourful weekly markets of the different minorities

TOUR CODE:

* VNRT0014E

*English and other language speaking guides

DAY 1 // HANOI

Arrive at airport in Hanoi, Vietnam’s capital city with tree-lined streets, colonial houses and centuries – old temples. Pick up and transfer to hotel (early check in not included). Enjoy dinner with traditional folk show. Overnight in Hanoi.

DAY 2 // HANOI – HALONG BAY

In the morning, transfer to Ha Long (170 km), a World Heritage site recognized by UNESCO in 1994. Halong is a picturesque bay with almost 2,000 islets rising from the clear emerald waters of the Gulf of Tonkin. With a junk you will cruise through the island landscape and visit in limestone caves with colored stalagmites and stalactites, have the opportunity to drive Canoeing and visiting a floating village (depending on the cruise). Overnight on board.

DAY 3 // HALONG BAY – HANOI

Depending on the cruise, you have the opportunity to attend a tai chi lesson in the morning. Or enjoy the stunning scenery from the deck. After breakfast / brunch the disembarkation takes place. On the way to Hanoi you will visit Bat Trang: Bat Trang, 15 km from Hanoi, is a village that has specialized in pottery for more than 500 years, where hundreds of kilns are made day and night. You will be accompanied by a local expert who will show you the workshops and kilns, the centuries-old techniques and the daily lives of the potter families. Overnight in Hanoi.

DAY 4 // HANOI

Hanoi is one of the oldest and most charming cities in Asia, and apart from its traditional Vietnamese architecture, there is a French quarter with grand French colonial villas and broad boulevards lined with trees and coffee houses. On this tour you’ll visit Ngoc Son Temple inside Hoan Kiem Lake, Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum (open for inside visit in mornings only, closed on Monday, Friday, and annual closure for maintenance from 15 June to 15 August), the One-Pillar Pagoda, the Museum of Ethnology (closed on Monday), the Temple of Literature, and the old quarters. The sightseeing day ends with a one – hour downtown pedicab ride and water puppet show. Created during the Ly Dynasty (1009-1224), the water puppet show, in which the artistes controlling the puppets stand in water behind the stage door, has become a unique form of artistic performance to Vietnamese. Overnight in Hanoi.

DAY 5 // HANOI

Free at leisure before check-out (late check out is not included). Transfer to Noi Bai airport for departure.

VIETNAM
PRIVATE TOURS
PRIVATE TOUR
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Stay Boutique - Feel Unique

“All are tastefully furnished and fitted out. Located just 700m from Hoi An Ancient Town, Hadana Boutique Resort Hoi An , encapsulates the uniqueness of Hoi An’s heritage and culture to create an enchanting and serene charm, being the home of elegant lifestyle and utmost indulgence for all our valued guests.”

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MEMORABLE LA VERANDA RESORT PHU QUOC

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WELCOME TO LA VERANDA RESORT PHÚ QUỐC – MGALLERY

Located on Phu Quoc Island (Vietnam), discover a time almost forgotten and immerse yourself in the romance of bygone Indochine. La Veranda has 74 rooms with an atmosphere of intimate luxury and a wide stretch of white sandy beach which affords aspectacular sunset view.

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Experience a new level of upscale travel along the renowned Bai Dai Beach or Long Beach, lauded by National Geographic as one of the world’s most beautiful beaches.

At Alma Resort Cam Ranh, we aim to redefine the meaning of extraordinary, offering our guests an unparalleled and unforgettable stay.

ALMA RESORT CAM RANH

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END YOUR 2023 IN A BREATH OF OPTIMISM - PULLMAN PHU QUOC

May your day be filled with laughter, your heart be light, and your spirit be lifted as we bid fare let the festive sparkle ignite new dreams, fill you with hope, and inspire you to embrace joy every Resort as we celebrate the spirit of the season and embrace the promise of new beginnings. Let's we renewed spirits, and a sense of endless possibilities Here's to an uplifting and joy-filled end to

HOTLINE: +84 (0) 297 267 9999 +84 (0) 91 665 0248 WEBSITE: WWW.PULLMANPHUQUOC.COM EMAIL: HA248@ACCOR.COM ADDRESS: GROUP 6, BAN QUY HAMLET, DUONG BAO AREA DUONG TO COMMUNE, 922270 PHU QUOC ISLAND, VIETNAM ADDRESS: GROUP 6, BAN QUY HAMLET, DUONG BAO AREA COMMUNE, PHU QUOC ISLAND, VIETNAM

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Whether a business, family or couple trips, Odin is always an ideal option where you can nd a feeling like home and heartfelt hospitality from our dedicated team. Taking time to relax, unwind and spend unforgettable moment at our Odin in your next vacation.

E: res@odinhotel.com.vn

T: +84 (0)256 389 3333 - 390 3333

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CAMBODIA

Kingdom of Wonder

Cambodia boasts a rich culture with its many ancient temples and impressive natural scenery of clean beaches, mighty rivers and remote forests. The temples in Siem Reap are a magnet for visitors to Cambodia, and for good reason. While Angkor Wat is the largest and most popular, guests can easily spend a week exploring the hundreds of other ancient structures.

Phnom Penh is a bustling and interesting city overshadowed by Angkor. It contrasts the temples with fine colonial architecture, artifacts and history of its own. With roads improving, so much more of this country is opening up to visitors who wish to take the time to discover Cambodia beyond the temples.

PHNOM PENH CAPITAL

US DOLLAR CURRENCY

KHMER LANGUAGE

(Chinese, Vietnamese and some French are spoken)

GMT+7

INDOCHINA TIME ZONE

SUASDEI TO CAMBODIA

DECEMBER - APRIL

WARM & DRY

MAY

SEASONS

Cambodia has a tropical climate with warm temperatures throughout the year. There are two distinct seasons in Cambodia. The dry season runs from December through April, bringing sunny, dry weather in January and February. The rains come when the winds shift into the southwest monsoon from May to November, with the most precipitation in the months of September and October.

COUNTRY INFO CAMBODIA sales@focusasia.group 80
Avg. High 31°C / 89°F Avg. Low 23°C / 73°F Avg. Precipitation 45mm
Tourism Higher
&
Avg. High 30°C / 95°F Avg. Low 25°C / 77°F Avg. Precipitation 300mm
- NOVEMBER WARM
GREEN
Tourism Lower

HOLIDAYS

January

International New Year’s Day

January

Victory over Genocide Day

March

International Women’s Day

April

April

Visak Bochea

Khmer New Year April

Royal Plowing Ceremony

HISTORY

The history of Cambodia began with the establishment of Funan. This gave way to the powerful Angkor Empire and its impressive kingdom, as we know it today. However, in 1431, Angkor was invaded and eventually, completely ravaged. The entire population and wealth of a once proud civilization was abandoned and covered by tropical forest. As war started to escalate in 20th century Vietnam, Cambodia became deeply involved, fighting mainly against the Khmer Rouge. Pol Pot and the Khmer Rouge invaded and proceeded to implement a brutal ‘reign of terror’ on Cambodia’s population. In 1979, The People’s Republic of Kampuchea, supported by Vietnamese, liberated the capital. Today, the Kingdom of Cambodia is a peaceful place to visit, while the authoritarian Cambodian People’s Party remains in government.

CULTURE

Approximately 90% of people in Cambodia are members of the Khmer people. The Khmer people have lived in the Greater Region since around the 2nd century BC. Roughly 95% of the entire population is Buddhist (Theravada), the remainder are either Muslim or Christian. Buddhism was reinstated as the national religion in 1989 after a ban on religious activity in 1975.

Listed below are holidays observed across the country and the month they are usually celebrated.

May 1st

International Labour Day

May

King’s Birthday

September

Constitutional Day

October

Pchum Ben Festival

October

Commemoration Day of King’s Father

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October

King Coronation Day

November

Independence Day

November

Water Festival Ceremony

81 COUNTRY INFO CAMBODIA

EVENTS & FESTIVALS

LATE FEBRUARY

Meak Bochea Day

Cambodia

MID-APRIL Khmer New Year

Meak Bochea is celebrated during the full month of the third lunar month. In the evening, people flock to temples to listen to preachings and walk around the temple three times with flowers, incense and a candle.

EARLY MAY

Royal Plowing Ceremony

Phnom Penh

This ancient royal rite marks the beginning of rice harvesting. In Phnom Penh, the King or a representative till land with a plough pulled by two oxen. What they eat determines the rice harvest for next year.

Cambodia

The largest celebration in Cambodia which marks the start of the rains. Expect some water throwing, but nothing like Songkran in neighbouring Thailand. Many local businesses also shut their doors to spend time with friends and family.

LATE NOVEMBER

Water Festival (Boat Racing)

Phnom Penh

Not to be confused with Khmer New Year, the Water Festival sees the majority of the country descend on Phnom Penh to watch the three days of boat racing that takes place on the Tonle Sap River.

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COUNTRY MAP CAMBODIA www.focusasia.group 83

SIEM REAP

Literally meaning the “Defeat of Siam,” Siem Reap is the most prosperous region of contemporary Cambodia. Its close proximity to the Angkor Wat temple complex has turned the city into one of the world’s premier travel destinations. More than one million travellers visit Siem Reap every year to explore over a thousand years of Khmer heritage constructed near Tonle Sap Lake, the foundation of the economic power of the ancient Cambodian empire.

KAMPOT

Kampot is a quaint riverside town only 5km (3 miles) from the sea and serves as the very popular seaside resort of Kep. Once a fashionable haunt of the French elite, it has stunning offshore islands and a beautiful bay. Former King Sihanouk owned one of these islands and would often use it for vacations. Kampot is also renowned for the quality of its fruits (durian, coconut, mango), its sea salt and the famous Kampot Pepper.

ANGKOR PARK

The Angkor Archaeological Park, an UNESCO World Heritage Site, is the spiritual heart and identity of the Khmer people. It encompasses dozens of temple ruins including Bayon, Banteay Srey and legendary Angkor Wat. Its magnificent architecture reveals the Khmer’s strong belief in Hinduism and Buddhism. The fact the structures at Angkor are so complete after all this time is a further testament to the advanced construction techniques employed more than a millennium ago.

KRATIE

Located on the east bank of the Mekong River, Kratie attracts a fair share of visitors, many of whom wish to catch a glimpse of the last few Irrawaddy dolphins left in Cambodia. Kratie offers an authentic rural ambience, and therefore serves as the perfect place to spend a peaceful night or two. It is a nice relief from some of the country’s more bustling areas.

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PHNOM PENH

Phnom Penh is the commercial, political and cultural hub of Cambodia, and is home to over one million of the country’s estimated 11 million people. The city offers several cultural and historical attractions including the Royal Palace, Silver Pagoda and the National Museum. This modern capital is a vibrant, bustling city nestled majestically on the banks of the confluence of two mighty rivers: The Mekong and The Tonle Sap. There are still many old French colonial buildings found in the town that add to its historical ambiance.

KEP

Kep is a province-level town famous for its sunsets and delicious seafood. It used to be a former colonial retreat for the French elite in 1908. Currently, Kep has a variety of tourist attractions such as mountains, an evergreen tropical forest, mangroves, islands, breezy sea air, coral reefs, and beaches.

BATTAMBANG

Cambodia’s second largest city, Battambang is an elegant riverside town, home to some of the best preserved colonial architecture in the country. The peaceful city makes a great base for visiting nearby temples and villages. It’s also an artist hub with many charming galleries in the small old city area.

SIHANOUKVILLE

Sihanoukville is Cambodia’s most popular beach town for foreigners and locals alike. It can be visited all year round for the cool breezes and clear blue skies. Sihanoukville has plenty of beaches, seafood restaurants, bars, temples, casino hotels and more. Local fisherman will happily take visitors to any one of the nearby islands perfect for snorkelling, diving and fishing.

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DESTINATIONS CAMBODIA

SMALL GROUP JOURNEYS

HIGHLIGHTS OF CAMBODIA

6 DAYS / 5 NIGHTS

SMALL GROUP JOURNEYS

GUARANTEED WITH 2 - MAX 16

RECOMMENDED FOR:

* Culture seekers

TRANSPORTATION:

* Group transfer

* Tuk Tuk

* Local Boat

DEPARTURES:

Weekly departures starting on Thursdays

DISTANCES / TIME:

SIEM REAP – PHNOM PENH

5.30hr (318km)

TOUR CODE:

* CMSIC002E

* English departures max 16 pax

THURSDAY // PHNOM PENH

Transfer to hotel upon arrival. Tonight, meet your fellow travelers over welcome drinks while your tour leader explains the journey ahead.

FRIDAY // PHNOM PENH

Explore Phnom Penh by cyclo, starting with Wat Phnom, the birthplace of the capital. Then, visit the Royal Palace, the Silver Pagoda and the National Museum. In the afternoon, visit Sleng Museum, formerly a High School which became the interrogation and torture facility of the Khmer Rouge regime. Visit Phnom Penh’s 2 great markets: the Central Market and the sprawling Russian Market, a labyrinth of stalls selling everything from CDs and DVDs to silks, crafts and jewellery.

SATURDAY // PHNOM PENH –SIEM REAP

In the morning, fly from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap. Later, visit Kampong Pluk floating village, an isolated community of three villages built on stilts. You will take the small boat through the flooded mangrove forests; this unique ecosystem survives on wet soil for half the year, fostering a variety of wildlife. Return by boat and vehicle to Siem Reap.

SUNDAY // SIEM REAP

Today we start at pre-dawn to witness the breathtaking sunrise over Angkor Wat. After sunrise visit the bas-relief and central complex of Angkor in the quiet early morning. Breakfast is served at a local restaurant near the temple complex. Continue to the Southern Gate of Angkor Thom ‘Great City’. This will include many of the finest Temples of King Jayavarman VII, who ruled from 1181 to 1220. Marvel at the imposing 23m (75-foot) high stone faces of Avalokiteshvara, featured in the Tomb Raider movie. At the center of this citadel lies the state temple of Bayon, built

at the end of the 12th century and adorned with hundreds of gigantic stone faces. The tour also includes the Terrace of Elephants, the Terrace of the Leper King. Later in the day you will discover the most famous temples from the 11th century: Baphuon, Phimeanakas. Continue the day by visiting Ta Prohm, known for the massive trees with thick roots that entangle the walls. Return to Siem Reap.

MONDAY // SIEM REAP

Start your day with a visit to the local market at Damdek before continuing your journey to Beng Mealea temple. Beng Mealea is built from perfectly-squared sandstone blocks, still partly buried under vegetation. The temple’s outstanding decoration dates back to the first half of the 12th century, featuring pediments sculpted with narrative scenes from the Ramayana. While Hindu iconographic themes are prevalent, Beng Mealea is primarily a Buddhist sanctuary, similar to Banteay Samre. Confirming this is the magnificent statue of the Bodhisattva Lokeshvara discovered within the monument, now housed at the Angkor Conservancy. Enjoy some lunch at a local restaurant before continuing to Banteay Srei temple. Stop and visit the Landmine Museum, established in 1997. See defused and safe landmines up close, learn about their workings and how you can contribute to the ongoing efforts of clearing these weapons worldwide. On the return journey, visit a local village to see the local sugar palm production. In the evening enjoy a sumptuous Khmer Farewell Dinner in a beautiful local restaurant.

TUESDAY // SIEM REAP

It’s time to say goodbye, but just think of all the wonderful stories you will take home. A transfer will take you to the airport for your onward travel.

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Phnom Penh - Siem Reap
CAMBODIA

SMALL GROUP JOURNEYS CAMBODIA

TEMPLES OF ANGKOR

4 DAYS / 3 NIGHTS

SMALL GROUP JOURNEYS

GUARANTEED WITH 2 - MAX 16

Siem Reap

RECOMMENDED FOR:

* Culture seekers

* Nature Lovers

* Families

TRANSPORTATION:

* Group transfer

* Tuk-Tuk

DEPARTURES:

Every other week starting on Sunday

HIGHLIGHTS:

Rise before dawn to explore the grounds of the sacred Angkor Wat in time to watch the spectacular sunrise over the temples famous spires

Journey through the Cambodian countryside

Stroll through Domdek local market and visit the Landmine Museum

TOUR CODE:

* CMSIC003E

*English departures max 16 pax

SUNDAY // SIEM REAP

On arrival, you will be met and transferred to your hotel. Tonight, meet your fellow travelers over welcome drinks while your Tour Leader explains some important details and logistics of the journey ahead.

MONDAY // SIEM REAP

After breakfast start you Angkor exploration tour to the Southern Gate of Angkor Thom, the ‘Great City’. Today you will visit many of the finest temples of King Jayavarman VII, who ruled from 1181 to 1220. At the Southern gate of Angkor Thom, you will marvel at the imposing 23m (75-foot) high stone faces of Avalokiteshvara, featured in the Tomb Raider movie. At the center of this citadel lies the state temple Bayon, which we will also visit. This temple-mountain, built at the end of the 12th century, is adorned with hundreds of gigantic stone faces. The tour also includes the Terrace of the Elephants and the Terrace of the Leper King. Later in the day you will discover the most famous temples from the 11th century: Baphuon and Phimeanakas. Then visit Ta Prohm. The temple is famous for its massive trees with thick roots, which entangle the walls. They were left here intentionally by the archeologists working on the site. Many of the trees have grown around and through the remains, and soar high above the temple. At the end of the day, we explore the magnificent Angkor Wat, built under Suryavarman II. Return to Siem Reap. Conclude the day with a foodie tour to taste real Cambodian Street Food. You will be picked up by Remork (Tuk Tuk) to enjoy the real Khmer night life. A long road lined with mats for hire, with dozens of street food sellers invites to join the locals for a beer. You also can taste various snacks here. Your tour guide will accompany you and explain about the food.

TUESDAY // SIEM REAP

Don’t forget to set your alarm, as today we start at pre-dawn to witness the breathtaking sunrise over Angkor Wat. Breakfast is served at a local restaurant near the temple complex. Afterwards the tour continues to the beautiful sandstone temple of Banteay Srei. Banteay Srei is famous for the intricate friezes carved into its red sandstone walls. In the afternoon visit Kampong Pluk floating village. This is an isolated community of three villages built on stilts. These scenic villages are flooded for around half the year (Aug/Sept – Feb), enabling row boat journeys that provide income for the local community. You will take the small boat through the flooded mangrove forests; this unique ecosystem survives on wet soil for half the year, fostering a variety of wildlife. Back on “dry land” experience an original monk blessing ceremony in an active pagoda. The monk will sprinkle holy water while chanting sacred Pali canons to wish good luck and health for everyone. Return to Siem Reap. In the evening enjoy a sumptuous Khmer Farewell Dinner in a beautiful local restaurant.

WEDNESDAY // SIEM REAP

It’s time to say goodbye, but just think of all the wonderful stories you will take home. A transfer will take you to the airport for your onward travels.

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SMALL GROUP JOURNEYS CAMBODIA

CAMBODIA EXPERIENCE

9 DAYS / 8 NIGHTS

SMALL GROUP JOURNEYS

GUARANTEED WITH 2 - MAX 16

RECOMMENDED FOR:

* Culture seekers

* Nature Lovers

TRANSPORTATION:

* Group transfer

* Bus

* Cyclo

* Local Boat

DEPARTURES:

Every other week starting on Wednesday

DISTANCES / TIME:

PHNOM PENH – KAMPONG THOM 2hr 40min (168km)

KAMPONG THOM – SIEM REAP 3hr (150km)

TOUR CODE:

* CMSIC004E

* English departures max 16 pax

WEDNESDAY // PHNOM PENH

Transfer to hotel upon arrival. Meet your fellow travelers over welcome drinks while your Tour Leader explains the tour ahead.

THURSDAY // PHNOM PENH

Explore Phnom Penh by cyclo, starting with Wat Phnom, the birthplace of the capital. Then, visit the Royal Palace, the Silver Pagoda and the National Museum. In the afternoon, visit Sleng Museum, formerly a High School which became the interrogation and torture facility of the Khmer Rouge regime.Visit Phnom Penh’s 2 great markets: the Central Market and the sprawling Russian Market, a labyrinth of stalls selling everything from CDs and DVDs to silks, crafts and jewellery.

FRIDAY // PHNOM PENH –KAMPONG THOM

This morning, sit back and relax as we drive to Kampong Thom. The first stop will be the infamous Spider Market in Skun. Later embark on a journey to Sambor Preikuk Heritage Sit. The temple, about 30 km away from the town and accessible only via a rocky road, the most impressive group of monuments in Cambodia mainly from the 7th forms Century.

SATURDAY // KAMPONG THOM –SIEM REAP

In the morning leave towards Siem Reap. We will visit Kampong Kleang, a stilted & floating village. Take a boat trip on the mighty Tonle Sap and along the fishermen villages. The floating village is something indeed different to seeKampong Khleang is surrounded by flooded forests. Lunch will be served or at a local restaurant. Afterward continue to Siem Reap.

SUNDAY // SIEM REAP

Head out before dawn to witness the breathtaking view of the Sunrise over

Angkor Wat temple. Enjoy breakfast at a local restaurant before proceeding to the Southern Gate of Angkor Thom ‘Great City’. Then explore the temples of Bayon, the Terrace of Elephants and the Terrace of the Leper King. Later in the day you will discover the most famous temples from the 11th century.

MONDAY // SIEM REAP

Head out to Beng Mealea Temple. Explore the ruins which are still partly buried under vegetation, consisting of perfectly squaredoff sandstone building blocks. Enjoy a traditional lunch at a local restaurant before you continue on to Banteay Srei temple. Afterwards, visit the Land Mine Museum. Visit a a sugar palm plantation and Banteay Samre temple enroute to Siem Reap.

TUESDAY // SIEM REAPBATTAMBANG

In the morning, overland transfer to Battambang. Discover this picturesque city, the second largest city in the country, with its small temples, market places and small art galleries showcasing young local talents. After arrival take a half-hour ride on the “Bamboo Train”

WEDNESDAY // BATTAMBANGSIEM REAP

In the morning enjoy a village tour by Remork (Tuk Tuk). You will spend your morning exploring the beautiful countryside around Battambang. Your morning tour finishes by visiting a memorial site for the victims of the Khmer Rouge. Enjoy a lunch at a local restaurant, before returning to Siem Reap. In the evening enjoy a sumptuous Khmer Farewell Dinner in a beautiful local restaurant.

THURSDAY // SIEM REAP

It’s time to say goodbye. A transfer will take you to the airport for your onward travel.

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Hanoi - Halong Bay - Hue - Hoi AnSaigon - Mekong Delta - Saigon

PRIVATE TOURS CAMBODIA

NATURE AND HERITAGE

8 DAYS / 7 NIGHTS

Siem Reap/Phnom Penh – Kratie –Mundolkiri – Ratanakiri – Stung Treng –Preah Vihear – Siem Reap

RECOMMENDED FOR:

* Wildlife Enthusiasts

* Nature Lovers

* Adventurers

TRANSPORTATION:

* Private transfer

* Half Day cycling

* Kayaking

* Boat

DEPARTURES:

* Daily

DISTANCES / TIME:

PHNOM PENH – KRATIE 5hr (255km)

KRATIE – MONDULKIRI 3.5hr (195km)

RATANAKIRI – MONDULKIRI 3.5hr (210km)

RATANAKIRI – STUNG TRENG 3hr (166km)

STUNG TRENG – PREAH VIHEAR 3.5hr (225m)

PREAH VIHEAR – SIEM REAP 4.5hr (220km)

TOUR CODE:

* CMRT019E

*English and other language speaking guides

DAY 1 // SIEM REAP/PHNOM PENH – KRATIE

Depart from either Siem Reap or Phnom Penh for transfer to Kratie, a small riverside town with a rich legacy of French-colonial architecture. Travel directly to the small village of Kampi for some dolphin spotting and board a local boat to cruise the Mekong River. Go to the hilltop of Phnom Sambok Temple.

DAY 2 // KRATIE – MONDULKIRI

Hop on a boat to visit the island opposite Kratie and enjoy a slice of peaceful rural Cambodian life in Koh Trong. Explore picture-perfect villages belonging to the Khmer Ethnic Group on a leisurely (9 km) loop around the island by a Horse Cart ride. Take a boat ride back to Kratie where we will continue our journey to Mondulkiri. Arrive in Sen Monorom village.

DAY 3 // ELEPHANT INTERACTIONS

For an original elephant experience that is ethical in all aspects, enjoy a day walking with elephants in their natural jungle. With the help of the Bunong villagers, this camp is a sanctuary which rescues and treats domestic elephants which suffered from abuse. After, return back to Sen Monorom to end the day. (Note: This is a strictly noriding camp.)

DAY 4 // MONDULKIRI –RATANAKIRI

Visit Bousra Waterfall, the largest waterfall in Mondulkiri. On the way, visit a coffee and pepper plantation. Continue our journey by land to Banlung province of Ratanakiri and arrive in the afternoon.

DAY 5 // RATANAKIRI & ELEPHANTS

Get a chance to visit local villages in stunning rural countryside first by hopping

on a small wooden boat along the Tonle San River to Kopirk village. See an impressive ethnic cemetery and visit other villages nearby to get a glance of local life. Continue back to Banlung. In the afternoon, head south to visit the Airvata Khmer Elephant Foundation (3.5 hours) and on the way see Katieng & Kachang Waterfalls. Learn about the elephants and their mahouts before you get the chance to walk beside them in their natural forest habitat.

DAY 6 // RATANAKIRI – STUNG TRENG

Continue on on road to the small province in Cambodia’s most northern border with Laos, Stung Treng. A province still an ‘insider’s tip’ for visitors. Enjoy a half day Cycling along quiet dirt roads as you visit the “Noodle Village”, The Mekong Blue Project, a weaving centre and cafe. Aftwards get to Kayak along Sekong River and visit an island ashore of Hang Khou Ban. Visit some Ethnic Lao villagers famous for producing sticky rice. Kayak back to town in time to watch a spectacular sunset.

DAY 7 // STUNG TRENG – PREAH VIHEAR

Continue our journey off the main road into a more scenic route of winding roads along villages and rice fields towards CambodiaLao border. Visit Preah Nimith Waterfall one of Cambodia’s largest waterfall. Continue on the main Road to Preah Vihear.

DAY 8 // PREAH VIHEAR - SIEM REAP

Drive towards the Cambodian-Thai border to Preah Vihear. Ride a 4-wheel truck to the Preah Vihear Temple, perched on the Dangrek Mountains. Continue to the temple of Beng Mealea, with fully-grown trees and gigantic roots wending through moss covered walls. Transfer to Siem Reap. PRIVATE

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TEMPLES OF ANGKOR

3 DAYS / 2 NIGHTS

PRIVATE TOUR NO MINIMUM PAX NUMBER

Siem Reap

RECOMMENDED FOR:

* Families

* Nature Lovers

TRANSPORTATION:

* Private transfer

* Tuk-Tuk

DEPARTURES:

* Daily

HIGHLIGHTS:

Discovering the majesty of Angkor, a UNESCO World Heritage Site

Exploring the monumental inner royal city of Angkor Thom and sublime Angkor Wat

Visiting the impressive temples of Banteay Srei

TOUR CODE:

* CMRT002E

* English and other language speaking guides

DAY 1 // SIEM REAP

After arrival and check-in, explore one of the jewels of Cambodia: the aweinspiring Angkor Thom or ‘Great City’. At the southern gate of Angkor Thom, you will notice the imposing 23m high stone faces of Avalokiteshvara, featured in the Tomb Raider movie. This tour also includes the Terrace of Elephants, the Terrace of the Leper King and the 12 identical towers of Prasat Suor Prat. Later in the day you will discover the most famous temples from the 11th century: Baphuon, Phimeanakas, North Khleang and South Khleang. Conclude your day by watching the sun go down on the Angkor Archeological Park.

DAY 2 // SIEM REAP

Today you enjoy an excursion to Banteay

Srei, a temple that dates back to 967 AD. On the way back to visit Banteay Samrea Temple, visit the Landmine Museum and also the Sugar Palm production facility. After that, visit Banteay Samre. Next on the itinerary are impressive temples from the 10th century: Eastern Mebon, Pre Rup, Prasat Kravan and Takeo (1004 AD). In the afternoon you finally explore the highlight of your trip – Angkor Wat.

DAY 3 // SIEM REAP

Explore the Roluos group before heading to the airport. The Roluos group lies 15km southwest of Siem Reap and includes three temples - Bakong, Prah Ko and Lolei. The bas-reliefs here are some of the earliest surviving examples of Khmer art. Transfer to the airport.

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DEEP INTO CAMBODIA`S EAST

7 DAYS / 6 NIGHTS

PRIVATE TOUR

NO MINIMUM PAX NUMBER

Siem Reap – Kampong Thom

– Stung Treng – Ratanakiri –Mundolkiri – Kratie – Phnom Penh

RECOMMENDED FOR:

* Culture seekers

* Nature Lovers

* Families

TRANSPORTATION:

* Private transfer

* Cycling

* Kayaking

* Local Boat

DEPARTURES:

* Daily

DISTANCES / TIME:

SIEM REAP – KAMPONG THOM 3hr (150km)

KAMPONG THOM – STUNG TRENG 4hr (235km)

RATANAKIRI – MONDULKIRI 3.5hr (210km)

MONDULKIRI – KRATIE 3.5hr (195km)

KRATIE – PHNOM PENH 5hr (255km)

TOUR CODE:

* CMRT021E

* English and other language speaking guides

DAY 1 // SIEM REAP - KAMPONG THOM

Start overland from Siem Reap. Drive along scenic country roads towards Kampong Thom to visit Sambor Prei Kuk a complex of pre-Angkorian monuments consisting of more than a hundred temples built from solid bricks, laterite and sandstones huddled cosily in a forest. Arrive in Kampong Thom.

DAY 2 // KAMPONG THOMSTUNG TRENG

Continue our journey on road to Stung Treng, a province still an ‘insider’s tip’ for visitors. Arrive in the afternoon. Enjoy a half day tour Cycling and Kayaking along the Sekong River. Start with a visit to the “Noodle Village” followed by a visit to the Mekong Blue Project a weaving centre run by Stung Treng Women’s Development Centre.

Cross the Sekong river by a Kayak to visit the village of Hang Khou Ban. In here visit some Ethnic Lao villagers famous for making the delicious Krolan ‘sticky rice in bamboo’. Watch them as they cook popular travel snacks packaged in a bamboo stick, a must taste for everyone! Kayak back to town on time to watch a spectacular sunset.

DAY 3 // STUNG TRENGRATANAKIRI

Early morning departure to Banlung, the capital province of Ratanakiri. On our way, stop to admire the Okatchagn and Okatieng Waterfalls. We continue our drive through scenic roads until we reach Banlung in the afternoon.

Continue with a visit to the Airavata Khmer Elephant Foundation Camp for an educational elephant experience that is ethical in all aspects (3.5 hours). Meet the rescued elephants with their Mahouts and get the chance to walk beside them in their

natural forest habitat.

DAY 4 // RATANAKIRIMONDULKIRI

Visit charming villages on the outskirts of Banlung. Reach the village of Kopork by a wooden boat and see an impressive cemetery. Opportunities to stop at nearby villages to get a glance of the village daily life. After we depart from Banlung to the capital of Mondulkiri’s province.

DAY 5 // ELEPHANT CAMP (NONRIDING)

Today get a chance to interact with gentle giants, in an elephant sanctuary camp. Enjoy a day ‘walking with the herd’ in their natural jungle environment through the stunning Mondulkiri countryside. With the help of the Bunong villagers, this camp is a sanctuary which rescues and treats domestic elephants which suffered from abuse.

We then continue with a visit to Bousra Waterfall, the largest waterfall in Mondulkiri. On the way, visit a coffee and pepper plantation.

DAY 6 // MONDULKIRI – KRATIE

In the morning continue our trip to Kratie, a small riverside town with a rich legacy of French-colonial architecture, most popular for spotting the Irrawaddy Dolphins. Travel directly to the small village of Kampi for some dolphin spotting as we board a local boat to cruise the swirling Mekong River. Enjoy a scenic countryside view of lush villages surrounded by palms and banana trees on the way to the hilltop of Phnom Sambok Temple.

DAY 7 // KRATIE – SIEM REAP/ PHNOM PENH

Depart from Kratie overland to Siem Reap or Phnom Penh where this tour ends.

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CAMBODIA WELLNESS GETAWAY

14 DAYS / 13 NIGHTS

Siem Reap – Kampong Thom –Kampong Cham – Phnom Penh –Kep – Phnom Penh

RECOMMENDED FOR:

* Culture seekers

* Nature Lovers

TRANSPORTATION:

* Private transfer

* Cycling

* Tuk-Tuk

DEPARTURES:

* Daily

DISTANCES / TIME:

SIEM REAP – KAMPONG THOM 3hr (150km)

KAMPONG THOM – KAMPONG CHAM 2hr (110km)

KAMPONG CHAM – PHNOM PENH 2.5hr (125km)

PHNOM PENH – KEP 4hr (157km)

DAY 1 // SIEM REAP

Meet on arrival and trasnfer for check-in.

DAY 2 // SIEM REAP

In the morning, visit the ‘Temple of the Jungle’, Ta Prohm, distinct and memorable for its trees with thick roots that entangle the temple walls. In the afternoon, join a yoga class at the resort.

DAY 3 // SIEM REAP

Take part in a unique wellness experience practicing the art of Pranayama Meditation from the Phnom Krom Temple, overlooking Tonle Sap Lake. A professional will guide you through the meditation. Return to your hotel to relax before we start exploring the great Angkor Thom, ‘The Great City’. View the classic scenic sunset over the Angkor temples from the top of the Pre Rup Temple.

DAY

4 // SIEM REAP

Enjoy a 2-hour introduction to the Kompheim Village, including a visit to the local pagoda for a traditional ‘water blessing’. See the Cambodian stilt homes and get a glimpse of the life in a of the typical Cambodian village. You will also visit the HUSK Community School and workshop if time permits.

Return to the hotel and get ready for a sunset yoga session at Wat Svay Romeat. This wellness activity is a private 60-minute Yoga session. Please allow 15 minutes for pre and post meditation. Mats and refreshing drink (coconut water) will be provided.

DAY 5 // SIEM REAP – KAMPONG THOM

In the morning, set off for an overland trip to Kampong Thom via the Naga Bridge. Upon arrival at Sambor Preikuk community, enjoy typical Khmer lunch. Afterwards, visit Sambor Prei Ku, the former capital of the

pre-Angkorian empire of Chenla. Dinner will be served at a homestay hosted by a family from the village.

DAY 6 // KAMPONG THOM –KAMPONG CHAM

Morning departure towards Kampong Cham, with stops at the Stone Mason Village and the Phnom Santuk. Check in at the Hanchey Bamboo Resort.

DAY 7 // KAMPONG CHAM

Enjoy the day at the resort following their meditation and yoga program. There’s a cooking class and other activities (supplemental).

DAY 8 // KAMPONG CHAM –PHNOM PENH

Overland drive to Phnom Penh. Along the way visit Wat Nokor Bachey Temple and the infamous Spider market.

DAY 9 // PHNOM PENH

In the morning, you will visit the National Museum. See many antiques from the Khmer civilization. This will be followed by trips to the remarkable Silver Pagoda, as well as a tour of the Royal Palace with its ornate grandeur and colorful, steeply sloping roof. Visit the Wat Phnom pagoda, followed by shopping at the Art Deco-era Central Market.

Later in the afternoon, gain some cultural insights into the tragic past of the Khmers during Pol Pot’s regime with a visit to the

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Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum and the Killing Fields.

DAY 10 // PHNOM PENH – KEP

Overland to Kep with stops enroute and off the beaten path to the small Ta Prohm temples near the Tonle Bati and the Phnom Chisor. Both temples are from the Angkor period however, this place is still unknown for many travelers. Check in at the Knai Bang Chat Resort in Kep. Enjoy a private sunset yoga session.

DAY 11 // KEP

The landscape between Kep and Kampot is dotted with lush jungle Limestone Mountains, many of which contain hidden caves and charming Buddhist Shrines. Among these mountains lies a man-made lake which was built by hand during the Khmer Rouge regime. Discover this fascinating area on a tuk-tuk. In the afternoon or evening enjoy another 1.5hr yoga session at the resort.

DAY 12 // KEP

Today is free for leisure and relaxation or

chose from the recommended optional activities:

- Morning Yoga Session (1.5hr)

- Kampot local pepper farm experience

- Join-in sunset cruise

DAY 13 // KEP – PHNOM PENH

Today take an overland transfer back to Phnom Penh (without guide). Free leisure in the capital.

DAY 14 // PHNOM PENH

Transfer to airport for departure.

CAMBODIA WELLNESS GETAWAY

Siem Reap – Kampong Thom –Kampong Cham – Phnom Penh –Kep – Phnom Penh

HIGHLIGHTS:

Experience Pranayama Meditation at the outdoor utopia overlooking Tonle Sap Lake at Phnom Krom

Treat yourself to a world of wellness with private yoga sessions in Siem Reap, Kampong Cham and in Kep

Venture to rural villages and connect with the Cambodian culture and people

TOUR CODE:

* CMRT031E

* English and other language speaking guides

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PRIVATE TOURS

A ROAD LESS TRAVELLED

9 DAYS / 8 NIGHTS

RECOMMENDED FOR:

* Culture seekers

* Nature Lovers

TRANSPORTATION:

* Private transfer

* Half day cycling

* Tuk-Tuk

* Kayaking

* Trekking

DEPARTURES:

* Daily

DISTANCES / TIME:

BORDER – BATTAMBANG 2hr (103km)

BATTAMBANG – SIEM REAP 3.5hr (165km)

SIEM REAP – PREAH VIHEAR 4.5hr (220km)

PREAH VIHEAR – STUNG TRENG 3.5hr (225km)

STUNG TRENG – BORDER 1.5hr (67km)

TOUR CODE:

* CMRT018E

* English and other language speaking guides

DAY 1 // PAILIN BORDER –BATTAMBANG

Transfer to Battambang where the rest of the day is free to explore.

DAY 2 // BATTAMBANG BY TUKTUK

Visit local villages in the countryside to learn how Khmer delicacies are cooked such as fish paste and sticky rice in bamboo. Visit Wat Ek Temple and Wat Somrong Knong, a memorial place for the Khmer Rouge victims. Later, see Phnom Banan another Angkorian struture on top of a small mountain with panoramic views of the province. Finally, stop at Phnom Sampeaou where the infamous ‘Killing Caves’ are located. Stay until sunset to witness bats fly out of the caves.

DAY 3 // BATTAMBANG – SIEM REAP

Travel North towards the province of Banteay Meanchey to visit the remote temple of Banteay Chhmar. It’s known for its unspoilt jungle setting and beautifully rendered bas-reliefs depicting the war between the Khmer and Champa Kingdoms. Explore the outer complex until the outer gate of Ta Prohm. Our final stop before we continue to Siem Reap is a village where Soirés du Mekong Silk Centre is located, a silk-weaving school created to help locals improve their livelihoods.

DAY 4 // SIEM REAP

Ascend the Kulen Mountain on today’s trekking trip, located on the outskirts of Siem Reap. Hike through rural villages, caves and rivers and walk amongst the forest’s wildlife. Descend the mountain for today’s finalé, The Temple of Banteay Srei “The Fortress of the Women.” Admire its well preserved red sandstone architecture with intricate frieze carvings. Return to Siem Reap.

DAY 5-6 // SIEM REAP

Enjoy a 2-day tour of Siem Reap and discover Cambodia’s priced jewels and rich culture. With visits to the “Great City” of Angkor Thom from the entrance of the Southern Gate. Within, see the iconic Temple of Bayon, Terrace of Elephants, Leper King Terrace, and the towers of Prasat Suor Prat. Be mesmerised with a spectacular sunset over Angkor Wat. The following day, attend a cooking class hosted in the home of a Khmer family in a picturesque local village. A trip to Siem is not complete without a visit to the Great Tonle Sap Lake. Take a boat trip to visit the village of Kampong Khleang.

DAY 7 // SIEM REAP – PREAH VIHEAR

Continue our journey to the jungle temple of Beng Mealea. See nature reclaiming their dominance with fully-grown trees and gigantic roots wending through moss covered walls. Transfer to Preah Vihear. In the afternoon, visit Preah Vihear Temple, which is along a cliff top with breathtaking views of lowland Cambodia. It is designed to represent Mt. Meru and dedicated to Hindu deity of Shiva.

DAY 8 // PREAH VIHEAR - SIEM REAP

Continue our trip on road to Stung Treng in the afternoon. Enjoy a half day tour Cycling and Kayaking. Visit the “Noodle Village” and the Mekong Blue Project – a weaving centre run by Stung Treng Women’s Development Centre. Cross the Sekong river by a Kayak to see the village of Hang Khou Ban.Kayak back to town on time to watch a spectacular sunset.

DAY 9 // SIEM REAP – STUNG TRENG – DONG KRALOR BORDER

Enjoy locally prepared breakfast before heading to Cambodia-Laos border.

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Pailin Border Battambang – Siem Reap – Preah Vihear – Stung Treng –Dom Kolor Border
CAMBODIA
PRIVATE TOUR
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CAMBODIA BY LAND & WATER

6 DAYS / 5 NIGHTS

PRIVATE TOUR

Phnom Penh – Battambang – Siem Reap

RECOMMENDED FOR:

* Culture seekers

* Nature Lovers

TRANSPORTATION:

* Private transfer

* Tuk-Tuk

* Speed Boat

DEPARTURES:

* Daily

DISTANCES / TIME:

PHNOM PENH – BATTAMBANG 6hr (290km)

BATTAMBANG – SIEM REAP (BOAT) 6-10hrs

HIGHLIGHTS:

Explore the old colonial architecture and the marvelous temples of Battambang

Experience the daily life on the banks of the Sangker river

TOUR CODE:

* CMRT004E

* English and other language speaking guides

DAY 1 // PHNOM PENH

Arrival in Phnom Penh, Cambodia’s modern capital. Spend a half-day sightseeing, visiting the Silver Pagoda, Royal Palace and the National Museum of Cambodia. At the end of the day visit Wat Phnom Pagoda.

DAY 2 // PHNOM PENH –BATTAMBANG

Early morning drive to Battambang (290 km, 6 hours). In the afternoon visit Phnom Banan, offering a beautiful panoramic view overlooking the Sangker River. Afterwards, visit a local winery. End with a visit to Phnom Sampeou and learn about the dark history of the Khmer Rouge regime by visiting a group of caves nearby used as ‘killing caves’ by the Khmer Rouge.

DAY 3 // BATTAMBANG – SIEM REAP

Morning departure by shared speedboat to Siem Reap (without guide), crossing the great Tonle Sap Lake. Upon arrival in Siem Reap, meet with the guide and transfer to hotel.

DAY 4 // SIEM REAP

Head out to Banteay Srei, a temple famed for the intricate carvings left on its red sandstone walls. On the way back, visit Banteay Samre. Discover the pride of Cambodia’s heritage in the afternoon – the famed Angkor Wat.

DAY 5 // SIEM REAP

Begin the day with a visit to one of the jewels of Cambodia - Angkor Thom. This tour also includes the Terrace of Elephants, the Terrace of the Leper King and the 12 identical towers of Prasat Suor Prat. Later in the day discover some of the most famous temples from the 11th century: Baphuon, Phimeanakas and South Khleang. Also visit the other important temples of Jayavarman VII: Preah Khan, Neak Pean and Ta Prom.

DAY 6 // SIEM REAP

Transfer to the airport for departure.

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DIFFERENT TASTES OF CAMBODIA

11 DAYS / 10 NIGHTS

Siem Reap – Tonle Sap – Banteay

Chhmar – Battambang – Phnom Penh

RECOMMENDED FOR:

* Culture seekers

* Nature Lovers

TRANSPORTATION:

* Private transfer

* Cycling

* Tuk-Tuk

* Mild Trekking

DEPARTURES:

* Daily

DISTANCES / TIME:

DAY 1 // SIEM REAP

Arrive in Siem Reap. Discover the Roluos Group of Monuments of the ancient Hariharalaya, one of the earliest significant capital of the Khmer Empire. See all 3 major monuments of Bakong, Preah Ko and Lolei Temple.

DAY 2 // ANGKOR BY BICYCLE

DAY 5 // SIEM REAP – BANTEAY CHHMAR

Head north again to visit the remote temple of Banteay Chhmar. Discover gigantic stone carvings and ruins inside. Explore the outer complex and visit the gate of Ta Prohm.

Enjoy breakfast prepared by your homestay family. Walk around the quiet streets to visit Banteay Chhmar’s local market before we continue to Battambang. On our way we will stop by the Banteay Torp Temple and get a chance to explore village activities. Arrive in Battambang where the rest of the afternoon is free for you own leisure. PRIVATE TOUR NO MINIMUM PAX NUMBER

SIEM REAP – TONLE SAP 1hr (50km)

SIEM REAP – BANTEAY CHHMAR 3hr (165km)

BANTEAY CHHMAR – BATTAMBANG 3hr (130km)

BATTAMBANG – PHNOM PENH 6hr (290km)

Escape the well-worn tourist trails and instead cycle the small track and minor roads to see a unique side of the Angkor temples, including Angkor Wat. Continue riding to Angkor Thom, a monumental city with formidable walls enclosing some of the city’s most important monuments: the Terrace of the Elephants, Terrace of the Leper Kings, Baphuon, Royal Enclosure and Phimeanakas. Continue to the mysterious Bayon Temple, set in the centre of the citadel with standing towers and gigantic stone faces. End the day at Ta Prohm temple, left in a dense jungle with gigantic roots, branches and leaves intertwined within its walls.

DAY 3 // SIEM REAP - KBAL SPEAN - BANTEAY SREI

By Jeep head north to Kbal Spean known as the ‘River of a Thousand Lingas.’ Enjoy a trek deep in the jungle and climb steadily on the way seeing intricately carved riverbed sculptures, thousands of lingas and a waterfall. Proceed to Banteay Srei, known for its well preserved red sandstone architecture with intricate frieze carvings. Finish at Cambodia’s Landmine Museum.

DAY 4 // SIEM REAP – TONLE SAP

Embark on a boat trip to one of the largest and less visited villages on the Tonle Sap Lake, Kampong Khleang. Enjoy a unique experience seeing the floating village and houses built on stilts existing in this great lake. Hop on-board a traditional wooden boat and gain an insight into the daily life of the locals.

Ride a traditional ox cart ride through the countryside. Visit a village where a silkweaving school was created to help locals improve their livelihoods. End the day with a homestay.

DAY 6 // BANTEAY CHHMAR –BATTAMBANG

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DAY 7 // BATTAMBANG

Join a sustainable bicycle tour into the Cambodian countryside. Learn how locals make traditional products such as rice paper, dried banana, bamboo sticky rice, fish paste and rice wine. Finish your morning tour by visiting a memorial site for the victims of the Khmer Rouge. In the afternoon enjoy a mild hike and see atop the Temple of Phnom Banan. On our way back visit a Cambodian Vineyard, the country’s one and only producers of wine. Finally, stop at Phnom Sampeaou where the infamous ‘Killing Caves’ are located. Stay until sunset to witness bats fly out of the caves.

DAY 8 // BATTAMBANG – PHNOM PENH

Continue South to the capital city, Phnom Penh. Enjoy rural countryside scenery and visit Kompong Luong Floating Village. Explore the largest floating community on the Tonle Sap Lake by boat still remaining untouched by mass tourism. Afterwards, drive to visit Oudong, an old Khmer Empire Capital.

DAY 9 // PHNOM PENH

Enjoy a full day city tour visiting main attractions such as the National Museum, the iconic Royal Palace, the Temple of Emerald Buddha, and lastly, the impressive Silver Pagoda. Understand Cambodia’s tragic past with a visit to the Toul Sleng Genocide Museum.

DAY 10 // PHNOM PENH

Visit the ‘Killing Fields’ of Choeung Ek in the morning. Choeung Ek is a respectful tribute to those who suffered so greatly at the hands of the Khmer Rouge. Board a boat in the afternoon to the island, Koh Dach, where silk weaving is practiced. Walk through vegetable farms and fruit orchards before returning back to the city.

DAY 11 // PHNOM PENH

Transfer to Phnom Penh airport for departure.

CAMBODIA WELLNESS GETAWAY

Siem Reap – Tonle Sap – Banteay Chhmar – Battambang – Phnom Penh

HIGHLIGHTS:

Explore the beauty of the Angkor Temples

Discover the remarkable Tonle Sap Lake

Explore the beautiful ruined Temple of Banteay Chhmar

Experience a local home stay

TOUR CODE:

* CMRT010E

* English and other language speaking guides

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CAMBODIA´S COASTAL REGION

3 DAYS / 2 NIGHTS

PRIVATE TOUR NO MINIMUM PAX NUMBER

RECOMMENDED FOR:

* Nature Lovers

* Adventurers

TRANSPORTATION:

* Private transfer

* Trekking

DEPARTURES:

* Daily

DISTANCES / TIME:

PHNOM PENH – KEP 4hr (157km)

KEP – KAMPOT 30min (23km)

KAMPOT – SIHANOUKVILLE 2.5hr (102km)

HIGHLIGHTS:

Explore the beautiful province of Takeo

See a one-of-a-kind Crab Market in Kep

Explore Bokor National Park, an old French station in Kampot

TOUR CODE:

* CMRT023E

* English and other language speaking guides

DAY 1 // PHNOM PENH – KEP

In the morning transfer to Kep, along the way visit Takeo Province. Visit the Tonlé Bati Lake lined with bamboo shacks built over the water. Close to this lake is the Ta Prohm temple ruins that were left surrounded by ruins.

Afterwards, visit the Phnom Chiso temple. Perched high on a mountain, this beautiful temple offers panoramic views of Takeo’s rice terraces stretching for miles. You can also see the ruins of the Neang Khmao Temple made of sandstone and brick. Arrive in Kep, a sleepy little town on the coast of Cambodia. Visit a unique Crab market which is perched directly on the ocean teaming with fresh live crab which you can buy! Check into your hotel.

DAY 2 // KEP – KAMPOT

Before heading to Kampot, we will take a short hike up on Kep National Park. This 8km circuit, winds through thick forest passing by wats and viewpoints eventually leading into the park’s interior. The ‘Stairway to Heaven’ trail is particularly worthwhile, leading up the hill to a pagoda, a nunnery and the Sunset Rock viewpoint.

Continue overland to Kampot, along the way stopping by to visit the Kampong Trach Cave where you will find pagodas and caves. Do not forget to bring a flashlight and always a pair of good walking shoes. On your way you will see various small mountain wells at the foot of the mountain which are worshipped by not only the local Cambodians but also the Chinese and the Vietnamese. Afterwards visit a pepper plantation and a Salt farm.

DAY 3 // KAMPOT –SIHANOUKVILLE

After breakfast, get ready for an adventure at Bokor National Park, where you will get to climb up the Bokor Hill. The location promises cooler weather and magnificent views. On your way up you will will the Loak Yeeay Mao Statue, thought by locals as the ‘Guardian of the Forest’. Once you reach the main part, you will visit Wat Sampov Pram, the Old Catholic Church, an Old French casino, and the Popok Vill Waterfall. Then we drive down and head to Sihanoukville, the gateway to Cambodia’s paradise islands.Options for beach extension available.

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Phnom Penh – Kep – Kampot –Sihanoukville
CAMBODIA
PRIVATE TOURS

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CAMBODIA´S BIRDING QUEST

9 DAYS / 8 NIGHTS

Siem Reap

RECOMMENDED FOR:

* Wildlife enthusiasts

* Nature Lovers

* Families

TRANSPORTATION:

* Private transfer

* Tuk-Tuk

DEPARTURES:

* Daily

DISTANCES / TIME:

SIEM REAP – PREK TOAL 3hr 45min (180km)

SIEM REAP –TMATBOEY PROJECT 3hr (167km)

TOUR CODE:

* CMRT011E

* English and other language speaking guides

DAY 1 // SIEM REAP

Arrival in Siem Reap and pick up by Tuk-Tuk in the afternoon to visit the Angkor area. Discover the Roluos temples which include Lolei, Preah Ko and Bakong. If time permits, we can visit the small town of Roluos.

DAY 2 // SIEM REAP

Full day exploration of Angkor by tuktuk. See Angkor Wat, the national symbol most religiously significant of the Angkor Temples. Visit Angkor Thom, a fortified city that includes some of the most popular sites of the area: Terrace of the Elephants, Baphuon, Royal Enclosure, Phimeanakas and Bayon Temple. Finally, visit Ta Prohm, a temple within the jungle that has an impressive amount of roots and trees growing through it.

DAY 3 // SIEM REAP

Early morning journey into the countryside and through rural villages to the sacred mountain of Phnom Kulen. From the slopes of the mountains you will find a wellpreserved area of ironwood forest full of wildlife. This area has a good variety of birds and excellent views of species such as Hainan Blue Fly catcher, Rufous-winged Buzzard, Black Baza, Red-breasted and maybe Blossom-headed and Alexandrine Parakeets. There is also the opportunity to visit ACCB, the first nature conservation and endangered wildlife rescue and breeding center in Cambodia. Visit Banteay Srei temple before returning to Siem Reap.

DAY 4 // SIEM REAP – PREK TOAL

Enjoy Siem Reap at your leisure in the morning. Just after lunch, drive out to Me Chrey Village. Hop onto a boat to Prek Toal, a pristine biosphere on Tonle Sap Lake, and home to some of the most endangered birdlife on the planet such as storks, adjutants, pelicans and ibis. Afterwards, experience local life in the floating villages and learn different fishing techniques. See

traditional water hyacinth weaving with a visit to Saray. Homestay in Prek Toal.

DAY 5 // PREK TOAL – SIEM REAP

Enjoy a tranquil morning and spend some time bird watching on a small traditional wooden boat. Return to Siem Reap after lunch. Enjoy a traditional Aspara show and dance during dinner in a cozy atmosphere.

DAY 6 // SIEM REAP (STOUNG BENGAL FLORICAN CONSERVATION AREA & TMATBOEY)

The stunning Tonle Sap grasslands support over half of the world’s Bengal Floricans, and our guides have an exceptional track record of finding these endangered birds. Have a chance to see Sarus Crane, numerous stork species, Manchurian Reed Warbler, Pied and Eastern Marsh Harrier, Small Buttonquail, Blue throat and Red Avadavat. Travel to the Tmatboey ecolodge, where the night is spent in Tmatboey community run lodge with home-cooked Khmer cuisine or BBQ.

DAY 7-8 // TMATBOEY PROJECT

Tmatboey is an award-winning site for some of the rarest bird species: Cambodia’s national bird, the Giant Ibis. We have a 100% record of finding these unique species at this site where we’ve been partnering with the community and WCS Cambodia. Also find nocturnal species such as Spotted Wood Owl and Brown Fish Owl. Plus the recently recognized Indian Spotted Eagle, White-rumped Pygmy Falcon, Collared Falconet, Rufous-winged Buzzard, Indochinese Bushlark, and more. Spend 2 days bird watching and spotting.

DAY 9 // SIEM REAP

Transfer to airport for departure.

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– Prek Toal – Tmatboey –Siem Reap PRIVATE TOUR NO MINIMUM PAX NUMBER

GLAMPING IN CAMBODIA

6 DAYS / 5 NIGHTS

Siem Reap – Banteay Chhmar –Siem Reap – Sihanoukville – Koh Kong – Phnom Penh

RECOMMENDED FOR:

* Families

* Nature Lovers

* Glampers

TRANSPORTATION:

* Private transfer

* Domestic Flights

* Half day cycling

DEPARTURES:

* Daily

DISTANCES / TIME:

SIEM REAP – BANETAY CHHMAR 3hr (165km)

SIEM REAP – SIHANOUKVILLE 50min non-stop flight

SIHANOUKVILLE – KOH KONG 4hr (225km)

KOH KONG – PHNOM PENH 6hr (290km)

TOUR CODE:

* CMRT022E

* English and other language speaking guides

DAY 1 // SIEM REAP

Enjoy a half day bicycle tour and explore the side of Cambodia only few people see. Cycle through quiet back-trails along the picturesque & friendly Cambodian countryside on the outskirts of Siem Reap. Witness day-to-day village life and learn a little more about the wonderfully warm people who call it home.

DAY 2 // SIEM REAP – BANTEAY CHHMAR

Transfer to Banteay Chhmar (2.5hrs), where art connoisseurs rave about it having one of the most impressive temples of the Khmer Empire. Explore the temples that are overgrown by nature and enjoy a picnic lunch. Spend 2 nights in a safari tent (“Economy Tent” with toilet and washing facilities) and dinner prepared by locals.

DAY 3 // BANTEAY CHHMAR

Explore a local market with a Khmer family and a local guide to understand the ingredients that go into traditional Khmer dishes. Return back and watch as your local family prepares a delicious dish right before your eyes! In the afternoon, visit

the “killing baray” reservoir. The place was part of the reign of terror from the Pol Pot regime. Previously, farmers used it as a water reservoir hundreds of years ago. The area also has a rich fauna and flora.

DAY 4-5 // BANTEAY CHHMAR - SIEM REAP – SIHANOUKVILLE –KOH KONG

After breakfast return to Siem Reap airport for onward flight to Sihanoukville. From Sihanoukville drive (without guide) to the 4-Rivers-Floating Lodge. The 4 Rivers Floating Lodge is about 20 minutes by car from the city, surrounded by nature and embraced by the Tatai River. The special feature of the lodge are tent villas on pontoons, right in the river. Each villa has a private terrace and offers views of the Cardamom Mountains. Enjoy the ultimate nature retreat and relax in the ambient sounds of rivers and jungle.

DAY 6 // KOH KONG – PHNOM PENH

Transfer back to Phnom Penh for departure flight (without guide).

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CAMBODIA
PRIVATE TOURS
PRIVATE TOUR NO MINIMUM PAX NUMBER

PRIVATE TOURS CAMBODIA

NATURAL PARADISE OF THE SOUTH

4 DAYS / 3 NIGHTS

RECOMMENDED FOR:

* Culture seekers

* Nature Lovers

TRANSPORTATION:

* Private transfer

* Cyclo

* Speedboat

* Trekking

DEPARTURES:

* Daily

DISTANCES / TIME:

PHNOM PENH – TAKEO 2.5hr (86km)

TAKEO – KEP 1hr 45min (86km)

KEP – KOH KONG 5hr (250km)

KOH KONG – SIHANOUKVILLE 4hr (225km)

SIHANOUKVILLE – PHNOM PENH 6hr (290km)

TOUR CODE:

* CMRT024E

* English and other language speaking guides

DAY 1 // PHNOM PENH

Arrival and discover the capital city of Cambodia. What better way to see all the iconic sites of the city than on a threewheeled bicycle rickshaw? This Cyclo tour will involve visits to the Royal Palace, Silver Pagoda, and the National Museum.

DAY 2 // PHNOM PENH – TAKEO – KEP

Transfer to the provincial capital Takeo where we will stop by to the Tonle Bati temple ruins and if the season allows (August – December) we can take a speedboat to Phnom Da Temple. After visit Angkor Borei a museum exhibiting Funan and Chenla Era artefacts. Continue to Kep, a coastal little village which sits at the edge of the Gulf of Thailand. The village (about 40,000 inhabitants) has direct access to the Gulf of Thailand and is one of the most famous coastal cities in Cambodia. You will stay in the Veranda Natural Resort located in the middle of the Kep National Park overlooking the ocean.

DAY 3 // KEP

In the morning explore the Kep National Park, an oasis offering adventurous hikes through tropical forest. The first half of the walk involves a soft trek up to Kep Hill, on top offering views of the southern coast.

The second half will reveal crumbling remains of the post-war modernist villas hidden and overgrown in the jungle. (For those seeking a more challenging workout can choose to take other various trails to sites such as Nun’s Pass, Stone Horse and Little Buddha.)

Visit the cave complex of Phnom Chhnork, located just outside Kampot, known for its impressive formations of stalagmites, stalactites and its temple shrine. The beautiful surrounds of the green Cambodian countryside and rice fields lead you to the next stop, the so-called “Secret Lake”, created through hard labour under the Khmer Rouge as an irrigation dam, now providing a scenic location for a picnic or a swim.

DAY 4-5 // KEP – KOH KONG

Overland transfer to Koh Kong for your overnight stay at 4 Rivers Eco Lodge. Surrounded by nature and embraced by the Tatai River, the special feature of the lodge are tent villas on pontoons, right in the river. Each villa has a private terrace and offers views of the Cardamom Mountains.

DAY 6 // KOH KONG –SIHANOUKVILLE/PHNOM PENH

Overland transfer to Phnom Penh or Sihanoukville without guide.

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Phnom Penh – Takeo – Kep – Koh Kong – Sihanoukville/Phnom Penh
PRIVATE TOUR NO MINIMUM PAX NUMBER

PEARLS OF CAMBODIA

14 DAYS / 13 NIGHTS

Reap

RECOMMENDED FOR:

* Families

* Nature Lovers

TRANSPORTATION:

* Private transfer

* Cycling

* Tuk-Tuk

* Cruise

DEPARTURES:

* Daily

DISTANCES / TIME:

SIEM REAP – BATTAMBANG 3.5hr (173km)

BATTAMBANG – PHNOM PENH 6hr (295km)

PHNOM PENH – KOH KONG 6hr (290km)

KOH KONG – PHNOM PENH 6hr (290km)

DAY 1 // SIEM REAP

Greetings on arrival and transfer to hotel. The rest of the afternoon is free leisure.

DAY 2 // SIEM REAP

Start our temple adventure with the Roluos Group of Monuments. See all three major structures of Bakong, Preah Ko and Lolei Temple. Afterwards see the Temple of Banteay Srei with its well-preserved red sandstone architecture and intricate frieze carvings. Continue to Banteay Samre Temple, followed by several other temples such as the Eastern Mebon, Pre Rup and Prasat Kravan.

DAY 3 // SIEM REAP

Start the day on back of a Tuk-Tuk to Angkor. Visit Angkor Thom, a monumental city with formidable walls enclosing some of the most important temples: Temple of Bayon, Terrace of Elephants, Leper King Terrace, and the towers of Prasat Suor Prat. See other temples within, such as the Baphuon, Phimeanakas and North and South Khleang. Continue to the Ta Prohm temple, left in its natural state with gigantic roots, branches and leaves intertwined within its walls. End with a visit to Angkor Wat and watch the spectacular sunset over the temple to end the day.

DAY 4 // SIEM REAP – BENG MEALEA

Travel by jeep in the jungle to the temple of Beng Mealea. See nature reclaiming their dominance with fully-grown trees and gigantic roots wending through moss covered walls. Continue to Koh Ker, a remote temple famous for its 7-tiered pyramid buried underneath green forest.

DAY 5 // SIEM REAP – KAMPONG KHLEANG

Head to the countryside to cycle along dirt roads through rural villages and to a local fish market. Ride on a boat to one of the largest villages on the Tonle Sap Lake, Kampong Khleang. See floating village and houses built on stilts. Gain an insight into the daily life of the locals, share a traditional Khmer lunch, and visit a pagoda where you can observe monks go about their daily routines.

DAY 6 // SIEM REAP –BATTAMBANG

Continue our trip to northwards to Battambang. On the way we will visit Banteay Chhmar Temple, renowned for its beautifully rendered bas-reliefs.

DAY 7 // BATTAMBANG

Drive out into the countryside to a remote village to learn how to make traditional products such as rice paper, dried banana, bamboo sticky rice, fish paste and rice wine. Visit a memorial site for the victims of the Khmer Rouge. In the afternoon enjoy a mild hike and see atop the Temple of Phnom Banan. On our way back visit a Cambodian Vineyard, the country’s one

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Siem – Battambang – Phnom Penh – Koh Kong – Phnom Penh
PRIVATE TOUR NO MINIMUM PAX NUMBER

PRIVATE TOURS CAMBODIA

and only producers of wine. Finally, stop at Phnom Sampeaou where the infamous ‘Killing Caves’ are located. Stay until sunset to witness bats fly out of the caves.

DAY 8 // BATTAMBANG – PHNOM PENH

Continue our trip to Phnom Penh via the provinces of Pursat and Kampong Chhnang. Along the way stopping by local villages known for producing pottery and silversmith products all around Cambodia. Arrive in Phnom Penh.

DAY 9-10 // PHNOM PENH

Enjoy a full day city tour visiting main attractions such as Wat Phnom, the National Museum, the iconic Royal Palace that houses the Throne Hall, Temple of Emerald Buddha, Stupas, a royal dining hall, the Chan Chhaya Pavilion and lastly, the impressive Silver Pagoda. Cruise the Mekong River on a 1hr boat ride. The following day, understand Cambodia’s recent tragic past with a visit to the Toul Sleng Genocide Museum and the ‘Killing

Fields’ of Choeung Ek. Both are peaceful places and respectful tributes to those who suffered so greatly at the hands of the Khmer Rouge. For a unique experience, explore the city with a cyclo to Phsar Thmey and the Art Decor building.

DAY 11-13 // PHNOM PENH –KOH KONG

Transfer to Koh Kong and continue to Ta Tai, a luxurious eco-friendly resort located amidst lush jungle settings, waterfalls and crystal clear rivers. Take a trip to Ta Tai Waterfall, a large rocky cascade nestled in the jungle. Reach the waterfall either by a slow boat or by road. Relax with this 3 day nature retreat with plenty of activities onsite and outside of the resort.

DAY 14 // KOH KONG – PHNOM PENH

Transfer to Phnom Penh for departure flight.

PEARLS OF CAMBODIA

Siem Reap – Battambang – Phnom

Penh – Koh Kong – Phnom Penh

HIGHLIGHTS:

Discover some of Cambodia’s prized jewels of world renowned ancient temples

See a unique floating community thriving at the Tonle Sap Lake

Experience rural countryside and local villages in Battambang

Stay at an eco-friendly lodge at Ta Tai in Koh Kong

TOUR CODE:

* CMRT022E

* English and other language speaking guides

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LAOS

Simply beautiful

If you’re looking to experience an authentic destination in Southeast Asia, you should visit Laos. Natural in almost every aspect, Laos offers travellers endless opportunities and unique surprises along the way.

Also known as the Land of a Million Elephants, Laos is a culturally rich, landlocked country with a sparse population relative to its size. Lao people are predominantly Buddhist and are very hospitable to travellers.

VIENTIANE CAPITAL

LAO KIP CURRENCY

LAO

LANGUAGE

(English, French, Vietnamese and Mandarin commonly spoken)

GMT+7

INDOCHINA TIME ZONE

SABAIDEE TO LAOS

SEASONS

In Laos, the yearly average temperature is about 28°C (82F), rising to a maximum of 38°C (100F) in April and May. Temperatures below are based on Luang Prabang and are an approximation. Different regions in Laos will have different temperatures, and a varied amount of rainfall throughout the year.

OCTOBER - MARCH

APRIL

JUNE

JULY - SEPTEMBER WARM & GREEN Avg.

High 27°C / 80°F
Low 14°C / 57°F
Precipitation 30mm
COOL & DRY Avg.
Avg.
Avg.
Tourism High
High 35°C / 95°F
Low 25°C / 77°F
Precipitation 82mm
-
HOT & DRY Avg.
Avg.
Avg.
Tourism Medium
High 28°C / 82°F
Low 24°C / 75°F
Precipitation 218mm
Avg.
Avg.
Tourism Low
COUNTRY INFO LAOS sales@focusasia.group 106

HOLIDAYS

January

International New Year’s Day

March

International Women’s Day

April

Lao New Year

May

Labor Day

May

Visakhabousa Day

July

Lao Women’s Union Day

July

Boun Khao Phansa

October

Boun Ok Phansa

October

Boat Racing Festival

November

That Luang Festival

Listed above are holidays observed across the country and the month they are usually celebrated.

The Lao People’s Democratic Republic has a rich ethnic history, partly due to being the only landlocked country in Southeast Asia. In addition to the Lao majority there is Hmong, Khmu, Yao, Akha, Lu and other ethnic groups living together, keeping their own traditions, dialects and beliefs. With over 160 ethnic subgroups, it is one of the most ethnically diverse countries in the world, making Laos a very interesting place to visit.

CULTURE

Lao people are known to be extremely friendly and always smiling. A typical example of their well-known friendliness is the way in which they may welcome strangers immediately with a meal.

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EVENTS & FESTIVALS

MID-FEBRUARY

Wat Phu Festival

Champassak Province

This festival is held in Champasak on the grounds of the enchanting pre-Angkorian Wat Phu archeological site. Festivites include elephant racing, buffalo fighting, and traditional performances of Lao music and dance. There is a trade fair that also showcases products unique to the Southern Provinces of Laos.

LATE APRIL

Rocket Festival

LATE OCTOBER

Laos

Boun Bang Fai festival is a call for rain from the gods and a celebration of fertility. In the afternoon, people gather in the fields on the outskirts of villages and towns to launch self-made rockets into the skies. Men disguise themselves as women and perform vaudeville acts using wooden phalli to anger the gods. As revenge, theser gods are expected to send rain all over Laos.

MID-APRIL

Lao New Year (Phi Mai Lao) Laos

The Phi Mai Lao festival celebrates Lao New Year and is a public holiday that usually lasts three days. The festival also serves to invite rain during the coming months. Statues of the Buddha in the posture of ‘calling for rain’ are ceremonially doused in water in Luang Prabang. On riversides, stupas are made from sand and decorated.

Festival of Lights Luang Prabang

This is considered to be the most enchanting event of the year. Watch the streets be flooded with candles and lanterns and temples decorated with colorful paper garlands and glowing star-shaped lanterns. There is a huge procession of beautifully decorated paper boats which are later released peacefully to float on the Mekong River.

EARLY DECEMBER

International Film Festival Luang Prabang

Every december, the charming city of Luang Prabang transforms into a theatre showcasing hand-picked independent films from Southeast Asian countries. The festival aims to support the growth of local and regional film industries and filmmakers. Attendance is free of charge.

LATE OCTOBER

Boat Racing Festival Luang Prabang

Boat Racing has been practiced for over a thousand years, various villages race each other in the Mekong for the entire day. Streets come alive with celebrations, the banging of drums, and festive mood across the country. The festival takes place in both Luang Prabang and in Vientiane, although usually a month apart from each other.

LATE NOVEMBER

That Luang Festival

Vientiane

Every November for 3 days, the colourful That Luang festival is staged to celebrate the stupa with people participating in traditional activities and ritual ceremonies such as the wax castle procession, almsgiving, tikhy (a traditional hockey game), and candlelight processions to venerate the stupa and honour King Xaysetthathirath.

EARLY DECEMBER

Hmong New Year

Laos

The Hmong New year is a nation-wide festival for the third largest ethnic group in Laos. Held in the beginning of December, it features colorful displays of traditional outfits with ornate silver jewelry. List to music from traditional Hmong instruments, and see girls play ‘pov pob’ by tossing a ball back and forth in search of a partner.

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COUNTRY MAP LAOS

LAOS VIENTIANE

Situated along the Mekong River near the border with Thailand, Vientiane has a mixture of Asian and French colonial architecture destined to charm you. It houses many temples and Buddhist monuments, including the famous Pha That Luang. Not only does the style of the buildings reflect Laos’ historical ties with France, but the freshly baked baguettes are often served next to shops selling piping hot noodle soup. This capital city is the centre of culture, commerce and administration in all of Laos.

PAKSE

Pakse, the capital of the Champasak province of Southern Laos, is an ideal base with its relaxing atmosphere on the Mekong and Sedone Rivers, friendly locals, ubiquitous riverside restaurants and bars, and Southeast Asia’s highest waterfall, Khong Phapend. Located steps from the Bolaven Plateau and the 4000 Islands make Pakse a great starting point for exploring Southern Laos. For culture, Pakse is synonymous with Wat Phou in a similar way that Siem Reap is to Angkor Wat. Wat Phou was built by the founder of the first Khmer empire, Jayavarman II. It is much smaller than Angkor, but still a rival to that ancient empire and worth a visit.

LUANG PRABANG

The former capital of Laos, this UNESCO World Heritage City has to be one of the most charming places in all of Southeast Asia. A myriad of traditional Lao wooden houses, gold-roofed temples, and French colonial architecture are set against a backdrop of verdant greenery and rugged mountains. The city wakes up every day to the sound of bells, gongs and drums from the local temples which send the monks and novices on their rounds to collect rice for their daily meal. Luang Prabang is the main centre of Buddhism practices and is the perfect location for spiritual contemplation. Surrounded by natural beauty, the town offers travellers a wealth of spiritual beauty and outdoor adventure.

VANG VIENG

Vang Vieng has managed to become a destination in its own right – and rightfully so. While the town still isn’t much more than three streets and a bus station, it is the stunning scenery of the Nam Song river and karst rock formations surrounding this town that make it look like a rural scene from an old Asian silk painting. Thanks to the Lao government closing the riverside rave bars in 2012, the community has rebooted itself as an outdoor paradise for kayaking, caving, rock climbing, and more. Visit some of the blue lagoons or relax and take in views of the mountains.

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COUNTRY MAP LAOS

NIGHT SAFARI

6 DAYS / 5 NIGHTS

PRIVATE TOUR NO MINIMUM PAX NUMBER

Luang Prabang – Xieng Kuang

– Nam Nern Night Safari – Nong

Khiaw – Luang Prabang

RECOMMENDED FOR:

* Culture seekers

* Nature Lovers

* Wildlife enthusiasts

TRANSPORTATION:

* Private transfer

* Local cruise

DEPARTURES:

* Daily

DISTANCES / TIME:

LUANG PRABANG – XIENG KUANG 6hr (261 km)

XIENG KUANG – NAM NER NIGHT SAFARI

3hr (150km)

NAM NERN NIGHT SAFAR – NONG KHIAW

4hr (218km)

NONG KHIAW – LUANG PRABANG 4hr (142km)

HIGHLIGHTS:

The mysterious Plain of Jars

Wildlife spotting at Nam Et-Phou Louey National Park

Nam Ou river cruise

TOUR CODE:

* LART026E

*English and other language speaking guides

DAY 1 // LUANG PRABANG –XIENG KUANG

Prepare for an exciting road trip as we depart from Luang Prabang, taking long and winding roads through scenic mountain views to the sparsely populated North Eastern provinces of Laos. Get the chance to visit the villages of the Hmong Ethnic groups along the way and see their way of life and culture expressed through their handicrafts. Continue driving until we reach the provincial capital of Xieng Khouang, Phonsavan.

DAY 2 // THE PLAIN OF JARS

The highlight of today’s trip is a visit to the mysterious Plain of Jars. With its origins still remaining unknown, it is considered the most distinctive and enigmatic of all Laos’ attraction. Go for a curious walk around these clusters of jars, carved from sandstones and granites in various shapes and sizes. Listen as your tour guide explains the many legends and stories about these ancient structures.

If time permits, we will stop at the Mulberry Organic Silk Farm, a non-profit company that aims to promote and preserve all aspect of Lao silk production.

DAY 3 // XIENG KUANG – NAM NERN NIGHT SAFARI

Starting with a 3hr drive to the ethnic Khamu village of “Ban Son Khou”where our night safari adventure in the jungle starts. Enjoy a Lao-style picnic around a campfire and hear Khmu ethnic folk tales told by the village guides before heading on a boat-based adventure tour into the core of the Nam Et-Phou Louey Protected area. The highlight of this trip is the night time wildlife spotting as the boat drifts down quietly along the Nam Nern River looking for wild and endangered animals. Stay overnight in the comfort of their open bungalows.

DAY 4 // NAM NER NIGHT SAFARI - NONG KHIAW

Wake up early for another day of adventure in the jungle! Take a leisurely walk around the historical jungle site as your local tour guide explains the many medicinal plants surrounding the area. After breakfast, get another chance to explore wildlife during daytime as you float along the core zone. Depart from the camp to continue our journey to Nong Khiaw where we will end today’s adventures.

DAY 5 // NONG KHIAW & NAM OU

Start the day with a cruise along the Nam Ou River, stopping by at the sleepy little village of Muang Ngoi where we will embark for an easy walk to the Tham Kang Cave, a former shelter used by local villagers during the Indochina war. Passing rice paddies in the karst landscape, we will reach Ban Na village. If time permit you can enjoy a swim on the river or try hawk fishing yourself before returning to Nong Khiaw.

DAY 6 // NONG KHIAW – LUANG PRABANG

Drive from Nong Khiaw to Luang Prabang, through mountains and along rivers. Stop at the village of Ban Na Nyang, a Thai Lue village famous for traditional cotton weaving. Finish in Luang Prabang.

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SMALL GROUP JOURNEYS

HIGHLIGHTS OF LAOS

6 DAYS / 5 NIGHTS

SMALL GROUP JOURNEYS

GUARANTEED WITH 2 - MAX 16

PRIVATE TOUR NO MINIMUM PAX NUMBER

Vientiane - Luang Prabang

RECOMMENDED FOR:

* Cultural seekers

* Nature lovers

TRANSPORTATION:

* Group transfer

* Local cruise

DEPARTURES:

Weekly departures starting on Mondays

DISTANCES / TIME:

VIENTIANE – VANG VIENG 3.5hr (157km)

VANG VIENG – LUANG PRABANG 6hr (230km)

TOUR CODE:

* LASIC002E

* English departures max 16 pax

MONDAY // VIENTIANE

On arrival, you will be met and transferred to your hotel. Tonight, meet your fellow travellers over welcome drinks while your tour leader explains the journey ahead. Open your welcome pack as it contains details of tonight’s activities.

TUESDAY // VIENTIANE – VANG VIENG

Explore the charming capital starting with a Tuk Tuk ride from your hotel to the iconic Phatuxay Monument. Hop-off and stroll down Lane Xang Avenue, and visit the Morning Market, and the COPE (Cooperative Orthotic & Prosthetic Enterprise). Continue along the way to visit the temples; Wat Si Muang and Wat Sisaket, before stopping at the Presidential Palace. Have a break and re-echarge with a Lao coffee or a fresh drink at Anouvong Park. Continue the tour along Setthathirath and visit a series of temples, eventually reaching the Mekong riverbanks which marks the end of the tour. Hop-on a TukTuk ride back to your hotel and prepare for the overland drive to Vang Vieng.

WEDNESDAY // VANG VIENG –LUANG PRABANG

Start your day with a scenic walk across the Nam Song River to visit the Hmong village

of Ban Phan Thao. Trek along a small canal and enjoy breathtaking views of limestone karst mountains and luscious rice fields. Continue until we reach the rice paddies of Ban Nadoa Village and Tam Chang Cave. Later, sit back and relax as we take a road trip through the majestic mountains and visit other Hmong villages as we make our way to Luang Prabang.

THURSDAY // LUANG PRABANG

Luang Prabang is Laos’ most beautiful and engaging town. Begin with a walking tour of the main charms this city has to offer with leisurely walk around the old quarters. Starting from the vibrant morning market, then onto the charming city main street and the National Museum. After, visit Wat Xienthong ‘The Temple of the Golden City.’ In the evening, take in the picturesque sights from a scenic boat as you cruise along the Mekong at sunset.

FRIDAY // LUANG PRABANG

This morning travel to the outskirts of Luang Prabang which will take us to Kuang Si Waterfall, the most beautiful of the waterfalls near Luang Prabang. Swim, explore and be surrounded by turquoise waters and jungle, then visit a nearby bear sanctuary to see Asiatic Black bears rescued from the illegal wildlife trade. On our way back, you will get to see the fascinating world of Lao textiles come alive with a visit to Ock Pop Tok Weaving Centre. In the evening, experience a bamboo presentation along with dinner and a baci ceremony.

SATURDAY // LUANG PRABANG

It’s time to say goodbye, but just think of all the wonderful stories you will take home. A transfer will take you to the airport for departure.

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LAOS

SMALL GROUP JOURNEYS LAOS

SUNDAY // LUANG PRABANG

On arrival, you will be met and transferred to your hotel. Tonight, meet your fellow travellers over welcome drinks while your tour leader explains the journey ahead. Open your welcome pack as it contains details of tonight’s activities.

MONDAY // LUANG PRABANG

Luang Prabang is Laos’ most beautiful and engaging town. Begin with a walking tour of the main charms this city has to offer with leisurely walk around the old quarters. Starting from the vibrant morning market, then onto the charming city main street and the National Museum. After, visit Wat Xienthong ‘The Temple of the Golden City.’ In the evening, take in the picturesque sights from a scenic boat as you cruise along the Mekong at sunset.

TUESDAY // LUANG PRABANG

THURSDAY // BOLAVEN PLATEAU – (4,000 ISLANDS) DONE KHONG

Experience being surrounded by verdant jungles and rolling mountains, at our first stop – the Tad Fane or the “Twin Waterfalls”. We will then continue on to visit the ancient ruins of Wat Phu a UNESCO World Heritage Site, noted to be one the oldest archaeological sites in Laos. Continue the scenic route until we reach Done Khong, the largest island of Si Phan Don 4,000 Islands.

FRIDAY // DONE KONG

SECRETS OF SOUTH LAOS

8 DAYS / 7 NIGHTS

SMALL GROUP JOURNEYS

GUARANTEED WITH 2 - MAX 16

Luang Prabang –Pakse – Bolaven Plateau – 4,000 Islands - Pakse

RECOMMENDED FOR:

* Culture seekers

* Nature Lovers

TRANSPORTATION:

* Group transfer

* Domestic flight

DEPARTURES:

Every other week starting on Sunday

TOUR CODE:

* LASIC003E

* English departures max 16 pax

Start your day with a drive to the outskirts of Luang Prabang which will take us to Kuang Si Waterfall, the most beautiful of the waterfalls near Luang Prabang. Swim, explore and be surrounded by turquoise waters and jungle, then visit a nearby bear sanctuary to see Asiatic Black bears rescued from the illegal wildlife trade. As we return to town you will get to see the fascinating world of Lao textiles come alive with a visit to Ock Pop Tok Weaving Centre. Later this evening journey to Bamboo experience where you will see a bamboo presentation while enjoying a delicious dinner and baci ceremony.

WEDNESDAY // LUANG PRABANG – BOLAVEN PLATEAU

Continue your journey south as you take a flight to Pakse. On arrival, begin our discoveries with a scenic drive through mountains and winding roads all the way up to the region of Bolaven Plateau. Along the way you will get the chance to meet Mr Kamsouk, a local coffee farmer and a coffee expert who will take you for an exciting offroad driving adventure in an old army Jeep into the coffee plantation.

Explore an archipelago of islands where time swings slowly by. Feel the fresh breeze while sailing along the Mekong River, passing fisherman villages and eventually reaching Done Khone where we will disembark. On the island, feel the breeze in your hair as you enjoy a bicycle ride and see iconic sights such as the old French locomotive and Railway Bridge. You will then visit the spectacular Liphi Waterfalls, a collection of powerful falls spilling down in many angles branching out to join the Mekong River.

SATURDAY // DONE KONE –PAKSE

Continue our adventure with a visit to the mighty Khone Phapheng Waterfalls. Marvel at its immensity and its powerful cascading currents. Continue to the village of Ban Khiet Ngong located in Xe Pian National Protected Area, an extensive wetland home to rare wildlife species. Enjoy a short walk as we ascend to the top of the Phou Asa Mountain where mysterious columns made out of stacks of plate-like rocks stands proudly as if protecting an unseen structure, believed to be a temple. Return back to Pakse to end an adventurous day and feast on a traditional Sindad dinner.

SUNDAY // PAKSE

It’s time to say goodbye, but just think of all the wonderful stories you will take home. A transfer will take you to the airport for departure.

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PRIVATE TOURS LAOS

HILLTRIBES & JUNGLES

11 DAYS / 10 NIGHTS

PRIVATE TOUR NO MINIMUM PAX NUMBER

Siem Reap – Banteay Chhmar –Siem Reap – Sihanoukville – Koh Kong – Phnom Penh

RECOMMENDED FOR:

* Adventurers

* Nature lovers

* Culture seekers

TRANSPORTATION:

* Private transfer

* Local cruise

* Trekking

DEPARTURES:

* Daily

DISTANCES / TIME:

CHIANG RAI – LUANG NAMTHJA 5.5hr (275km)

LUANG NAMTHA – OUDOMXAY 4hr (150km)

OUDOMXAY – NONG KHIAW 4hr (126km)

NONG KHIAW – LUANG PRABANG 4hr (142km)

TOUR CODE:

* LART011E

* English and other language speaking guides

DAY 1 // CHIANG RAI

Arrive in Chiang Mai and transfer to your hotel. Overnight in Chiang Rai (no guide).

DAY 2 // CHIANG RAI – LUANG NAMTHA

Early morning transfer to the Thai-Lao border crossing in Houei Say into Laos. Meet your guide and begin the journey with a drive to the plateau of Luang Namtha knowns as “Royal Green River,” surrounded with evergreen forests and limestone mountains. Along the way we will stop by some local villages and meet the friendly ethnic groups.

DAY 3-5 // THE AKHA TREK

This 3-day trek into the Nam Ha National Protected Area takes you through a trail of some of the most breathtaking landscapes of Laos for an eco-tourism adventure. Explore Nam Ha’s impressive biodiversity: rich rice fields, fog-filled valleys, limestone mountains, bamboo forests, wild rivers, crystal clear waterfalls and mysterious caves. This one of a kind adventure lets you in on the day-today community life of the Akha Ethnic group. Learn about their traditions and customs, eat traditional Akha food and be welcomed for an overnight homestay.

DAY 6 // LUANG NAMTHA

–OUDOMXAY

Stroll through Luang Namtha’s Morning Market and find local vendors selling foraged and farmed vegetables, fruits, meat, fresh seafood and many other exotic delicacies. Head off to Oudomxay and stop by Ban Chang Village. Learn about their ancient old techniques in cotton “dyeing” and bamboo paper techniques. Another visit will be made at the Village of Ba Pieng Nga famous for their many different handicrafts, where the friendly Tai Dam and Tai Krao ethnic groups will greet us. Taking the national main road Route 13 to Oudomxay, we will stop to visit Hmong and Khmu ethnic groups.

DAY 7 // OUDOMXAY – NONG KHIAW

An early morning start departing from the provincial capital of Oudomxay to the rustic little village of Nong Khiaw, a town along the river’s edge framed by towering limestones mountains. Upon arrival, climb aboard a traditional Lao Long boat for a scenic cruise on the Nam Ou River. Relax on the cruise back to Nong Khiaw.

DAY 8 // 100 WATERFALLS TREK

Today’s main highlight is the famous 100 Waterfall Tour in Nong Khiaw. Spend the day hiking and exploring through the jungle and hear the sounds of water as hits the rocks as you trek into cascading waterfalls.

DAY 9 // NONG KHIAW – LUANG PRABANG

The goal today is to reach the timeless city of Luang Prabang, a UNESCO world heritage site. Departing from Nong Khiaw, we will visit the Thai Lue Village of Ban Na Nyang, known for their cotton weaving expertise. Continue driving south of Luang Prabang to reach Pak Ou Village where a relaxing boat cruise awaits. Sail along the Mekong River for a scenic trip to the sacred pilgrimage of Tam Ting Cave, a cave where a thousand Buddha statues are kept. Hop back on the boat and (depending on time) catch a glimpse of the breath-taking sunset as you arrive in Luang Prabang, marking the end of today’s trip.

DAY 10 // LUANG PRABANG

Luang Prabang is best explored simply, either by cycling, walking or a Tuk-Tuk ride. Since the city is flat, exploring it by bicycle is very easy and enjoyable. Visits to temples: Wat Visun, Wat Aham and Wat Xieng Thong. Enjoy a mild hike up to the Phu Si Mountain.

DAY 11 // LUANG PRABANG

Transfer to the airport for departure.

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PRIVATE TOURS LAOS

SILK CULTURE & TRADITION

6 DAYS / 5 NIGHTS

PRIVATE TOUR NO MINIMUM PAX NUMBER

RECOMMENDED FOR:

* Culture seekers

* Nature Lovers

* Families

TRANSPORTATION:

* Private transfer

DEPARTURES:

* Daily

DISTANCES / TIME:

LUANG PRABANG – NONG KHIAW 4hr (142km)

HIGHLIGHTS:

Introduction to the world of Lao Textile through different workshop by different ethnics groups.

Discover the old quarters of Luang Prabang UNESCO Heritage site

TOUR CODE:

* LART012E

* English and other language speaking guides

DAY 1 // LUANG PRABANG

Greetings on arrival at the airport and transfer to hotel where you will have the chance to rest and refresh. In the afternoon, enjoy a guided tour through the city and discover why it is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Visit to Wat Xienthong, considered the finest in all of Laos. Stop by to see the impressive architectures of Wat Visoun and Wat Aham, two of the many temples in Luang Prabang. Embark on a small hike up to the Phou Si Mountain for a breathtaking view of the city. End the day with a leisurely walk through the vibrant Night Market, a must-see in Luang Prabang.

DAY 2 // OCK POP TOK: HMONG BATIK

Ock Pop Tok (East Meet West) opens its doors to travellers learning about Lao textiles and crafts. Bringing alive their concept of east meets west, this is a place where you can meet silk weavers, craft artisans and silkworms and learn about textiles and take classes.

Join an introductory class on Hmong Batik culture, where guests create a wax resistant, Hmong-style design on handloomed hemp, together with Mae Thao (Grandmother) Zuzong – a legendary Batik Teacher.

DAY 3 // LUANG PRABANG –NONG KHIAW

Transfer out of Luang Prabang and into the magnificent landscape of Northern Laos to Nong Khiaw. Cruise north along the Nam Ou River, weaving through some of the most beautiful and remote landscapes of Laos. During this journey we will visit the Village of Ban Sopcham. This village is known for its craft production of silk. The village continues to follow the ancestral way of producing silk and weaving by hand loom a craft handed down from generation to generation. Overnight in a bungalow

along the Nam Ou River.

DAY 4 // TAI LUE WEAVING –LUANG PRABANG

Head out on a 40min drive to Ban Na Nyang, a village famous for their traditional cotton weaving. Almost every household has its own loom where the families create beautiful scarves, table cloths and wall hangings. The art of cotton weaving in Ban Na Nyang has been passed down for almost 300 years. Learn the different steps from the flower to the scarf. Overnight in Luang Prabang.

DAY 5 // NATURAL DYES & KUANG SI WATERFALLS

Join Ock Pop Tok’s natural dyes class. Guests will have a hands-on experience with natural dye preparation and complete 3 color dyes. At the end of class you will take home 3 dyed silks.

Afterwards, transfer to the multi-tiered turquoise-colored Kuang Si Waterfall, deemed one of the most beautiful waterfalls in South-east Asia. Here you can also visit the Bears Rescue Centre to see Asiatic bears rescued from illegal poaching and trading.

DAY 6 // LUANG PRABANG

Free leisure before transfer to the airport.

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Luang Prabang – Nong Khiaw

PRIVATE TOURS

HIGHLIGHTS OF LAOS

5 DAYS / 4 NIGHTS

RECOMMENDED FOR:

* Adventurers

* Nature lovers

* Families

TRANSPORTATION:

* Private transfer

* Local cruise

DEPARTURES:

* Daily

DISTANCES / TIME:

VIENTIANE – LUANG PRABANG 50min flight

HIGHLIGHTS:

UNESCO town of Luang Prabang, heart of Laotian culture

Vientiane the relaxing capital

TOUR CODE:

* LART011E

* English and other language speaking guides

DAY 1 // VIENTIANE

Welcome arrival from Vientiane airport and transfer to the hotel to relax and refresh.

DAY 2 // VIENTIANE CITY TOUR

Explore the largest city of Laos with a relaxed atmosphere unlike the typical hustling and bustling cities of Southeast Asia. This historic old french colonial quarter beguiles glittering temples and statues, sleepy tuk tuk drivers, wandering Buddhist monks and boulevards lined with frangipanis.

Easily explored, by foot, bicycle or a tuk tuk ride, we will visit the major sights including Wat Sisaket, the Royal Temple of Wat Prakeo, and the Temple of Emerald Buddha. The tour continues with a visit to Patuxai – Victory Gate (reminiscent of the Arc de Triomphe in Paris). We then head on to see the iconic Golden That Luang Stupa, deemed as the most important national monument in Laos and a sacred symbol of Buddhist religion.

Transfer to the airport for flight departure to Luang Prabang.

DAY 3 // LUANG PRABANG & MEKONG CRUISE

Discover the ancient town of Luang Prabang considered by many travelers as being the heart of Laotian culture. Starting the day with a visit to the magnificent Wat Xieng Thong Temple, “The Temple of the Golden City.”

Embark on a scenic boat ride and enjoy Luang Prabang’s scenery before arriving at Tam Ting Cave (cave of thousand Buddhas). Afterwards, stop at the village of Ban Xang Hai, famous for distilling rice whiskeys and Ban Xang Khong where Saa paper are handcrafted from the barks of Mulberry trees.

Then visit Wat Mai “The New Monestary”, and the National Museum, which was the former home of the Lao royal family. Get the heart-rate going with a small hike up to the Phou Si Mountain for a breathtaking view of the entire city.

DAY 4 // LUANG PRABANG & KUANG SI WATERFALLS

Wake up before dawn to observe a long standing sacred Lao tradition and Buddhist ritual “Tak Bat” (Almsgiving), where monks line up to receive food offerings from devout Buddhists along the streets. Tourists are expected to be respectful and be mindful that it must be observed in silence and peace.

Travel by car to the multi-tiered turquoisecolored Kuang Si Waterfall. Visit the nearby Bears Rescue Centre to see Asiatic bears rescued from illegal poaching and trading. Get to see the fascinating world of Lao textiles come alive with a visit to Ock Pop Tok Weaving Centre. Offering free guided tours where you can meet the expert village weavers and have the option to take a class in weaving and dyeing.

DAY 5 // LUANG PRABANG

Free leisure before transfer to the airport.

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Vientiane – Luang Prabang
LAOS
PRIVATE TOUR NO MINIMUM PAX NUMBER

PRIVATE TOURS LAOS

SOUTHERN DELIGHTS

5 DAYS / 4 NIGHTS

PRIVATE TOUR NO MINIMUM PAX NUMBER

Pakse – Bolaven Plateau –Champassak – 4000 Islands – Pakse

RECOMMENDED FOR:

* Culture seekers

* Nature Lovers

TRANSPORTATION:

* Private transfer

* Local cruise

DEPARTURES:

* Daily

DISTANCES / TIME:

PAKSE – CHAMPASSAK 1hr (33km)

CHAMPASSAK – DONE KONG 3.5hr (177km)

DONE KONE – PAKSE 3.5hr (144km)

HIGHLIGHTS:

Visiting the Bolaven Plateau, home of some of the world’s best coffee

Exploring the atmospheric ruins of Wat Phou and the colonial town of Champassak

Navigating the Mekong at its widest in the lovely 4000 islands region

TOUR CODE:

* LART016E

* English and other language speaking guides

DAY 1 // PAKSE – BOLAVEN PLATEAU – CHAMPASSAK

Greetings on arrival at the Pakse airport, the gateway to Southern Laos. We begin our journey with a scenic drive through winding roads to the elevated fertile region of the Bolaven Plateau. Learn about the process of coffee production and sample quality tea and coffee at one of these plantations. Other stops to enjoy are the Tad Fane, Tad Yeuang and Tad Phasuam Waterfalls. The day ens in the ancient capital city of Champassak.

DAY 2 // WAT PHOU – DONE KONG

Discover the ancient ruins of Wat Phu (Mountain Temple), believed by some to be the first Angkor Temple ever built to express the Hindu vision of nature and humanity. It is named a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Lao’s oldest archeological site.

In the afternoon, continue on the scenic route driving all the way to Done Khong, the largest island in the “Si Phan Don” (4,000 Islands) a perfect base to explore attractions nearby.

DAY 3 // 4000 ISLANDS

4000 Islands is where Laos becomes an archipelago and postcard-worthy views are the rule rather than the exception. Feel the fresh breeze while sailing along the Mekong River, passing fisherman villages until reaching Done Khone. On the island, we will see some iconic sights such as the old French locomotive and railway bridge. Continue on to the spectacular Liphi Waterfalls, a collection of powerful falls spilling down in many angles as it branches from the Mekong River. Cruise back to Don Khong Island for the night.

DAY 4 // 4000 ISLANDS – PAKSE

Our 4,000 Islands Adventure continues with a visit to the mighty Khone Phapheng Waterfalls. Continue on the road to the village of Ban Khiet Ngong located in Xe Pian National Protected Area, an extensive wetland home to rare wildlife.Enjoy a short walk as we ascend to the top of the Phou Asa Mountain where unique columns made out of stacks of plate-like rocks stands proudly as if protecting an unseen structure, believed to be a temple. Return back to Pakse.

DAY 5 // PAKSE

Free leisure before transfer from your hotel to the airport for departure.

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TREASURES OF LAOS

13 DAYS / 12 NIGHTS

PRIVATE TOUR NO MINIMUM PAX NUMBER

RECOMMENDED FOR:

* Culture seekers

* Nature Lovers

TRANSPORTATION:

* Private transfer

* Local cruise

* Trekking

DEPARTURES:

* Daily

DISTANCES / TIME:

LUANG PRABANG – XIENG KUANG 6hr (261 km)

XIENG KUANG – HINBOUN 8hr (365km)

HINBOUN – VIENTIANE 4.5hr (247km)

VIENTIANE – VANG VIENG 3.5hr (137km)

VANG VIENG – LUANG PRABANG 6hr (230km)

DAY 1 // LUANG PRABANG

Arrival in Luang Prabang.

DAY 2 // LUANG PRABANG

Visit the Morning Market, full of fresh produce and exotic delicacies from farmers coming from surrounding villages. Walk along to the National Museum, once home to the Laotian Royal Family. Continue to the picturesque stupa of Wat Visoun and the shrine of Wat Aham, followed by a visit to Wat Xienthong. Take a small hike up Phou Si for a view of the city.

DAY 3 // TREK TO KUANG SI WATERFALLS

Drive southeast of Luang Prabang to Long Lao village to start our trekking tour. The trail passes through fields and forested mountains. After a stretch of forest (slippery in wet season) we will explore a cave used during the war. Arrive at the crystal clear water of one of the springs that feed into the Kuang Si waterfall. Head down the waterfall and go for a swim. Visit the nearby bear sanctuary, where an NGO helps to set up proper care and areas to keep the animals. Return to Luang Prabang.

DAY 4 // LUANG PRABANG –XIENG KUANG

Early morning at 5:30am you can assist to the ritual of the “Tak Bat”, the practice of offering food to monks.

Afterwards, depart from Luang Prabang to the sparsely populated North Eastern provinces of Laos. Get the chance to visit the villages of the Hmong Ethnic groups along the way and see their way of life and culture expressed through their handicrafts. Arrive in Phonsavan.

DAY 5 // THE PLAIN OF JARS

The highlight of today’s trip is a visit to the mysterious Plain of Jars. With its origins still remaining unknown, it is considered

the most distinctive and enigmatic of all Laos’ attraction. Listen as your tour guide explains the many legends and stories about these ancient structures.

DAY 6 // XIENG KUANG –HINBOUN

Travel South overland through some of most beautiful landscapes, including the Phou Hin Boun National Protected Area. This immense area of wilderness surrounded with monsoon forests, luscious green rice paddies, turquoise streams and striking karst topography makes a perfect backdrop for photos.

DAY 7 // KONG LOR CAVE

Visit the Kong Lor Cave. Sail deep into the 8km cave which runs beneath spectacular limestone mountains. Explore deep inside otherworldly stalactite pillars and sprouting stalagmites, limestone walls and ceilings over 100 feet tall!

DAY 8 // HINBOUN – VIENTIANE

Following breakfast, set off by road for a drive to the Vientiane. Stop en route at Prabaht Ponsan, an Ancient stupa dating back to the 15th century. It is also home to an ancient Buddha footprint, discovered in 1933, and now an important religious site in Laos. Arrival in Vientiane.

DAY 9 // VIENTIANE CITY TOUR

Visit the major sights of the capital: Wat

PRIVATE TOURS LAOS sales@focusasia.group 118
Luang Prabang – Xieng Kuang –Hinboun – Vientiane – Vang Vieng

PRIVATE TOURS LAOS

Sisaket, the Royal Temple of Wat Prakeo, the Temple of Emerald Buddha. Continue visiting the Patuxai Victory Gate and the That Luang Stupa. After a busy day exploring the city, take advantage of the cool breeze and take a walk along the banks of the Mekong River en-route to the Night Market.

DAY 10 // VIENTIANE – NAM GNUM – VANG VIENG

As departing Vientiane, visit the Salt Factory in Ban Keun Village to see how salt is made without access to the sea. Finally, stop at the large Nam Ngum Lake. Embark on a boat ride around the lake’s islands and small fishing boats. Arrive in Vang Vieng.

DAY 11 // VANG VIENG

Cross the Nam Song River over two small bridges. A first stop will be made for a hike to enjoy a scenic view over the valley:

• Pha Ngeung (45 min to reach the view point)

• Pha Hon Kham (more adventurous with a steep hike taking around 30min or more)

We’ll then continue our journey on a dirt road passing through rice paddies and visiting local villages.

During the afternoon we’ll visit the Blue Lagoon 3 for picnic and a fresh swim. Return to Vang Vieng to enjoy scenic boat tour along the Nam Song River.

DAY 12 // VANG VIENG – LUANG PRABANG

Our trip continues with an early morning drive to reach our last destination, Luang Prabang. Take this time to relax and enjoy a scenic route of rural countryside. With windy roads up to the Northern Central region of Laos where everywhere is surrounded with majestic mountains and untouched tropical jungles. Get to visit some of the local villages and take some time to enjoy the scenery. Arrive in Luang Prabang where the rest of the evening is free for your own leisure or relaxation.

DAY 13 // LUANG PRABANG

Free leisure before transfer to the airport for departure.

TREASURES OF LAOS

Luang Prabang – Xieng Kuang –Hinboun – Vientiane – Vang Vieng

HIGHLIGHTS:

See Luang Prabang, the former royal capital and spiritual center of Laos

Boat tour through Khong Lor Cave

The mysterious Plain of Jars

Easy hike to the multi-tiered turquoisecolored of Kuang Si Waterfall

Vang Vieng’s breathtaking sceneries

Explore Vientiane - the relaxing capital

TOUR CODE:

* LART020E

* English and other language speaking guides

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AUTHENTIC LAOS

11 DAYS / 10 NIGHTS

PRIVATE TOUR

NO MINIMUM PAX NUMBER

Vientiane – Vang Vieng –Phonsavan – Luang Prabang

RECOMMENDED FOR:

* Culture seekers

* Nature Lovers

* Adventurers

TRANSPORTATION:

* Private transfer

* Local cruise

* Trekking

DEPARTURES:

* Daily

DISTANCES / TIME:

VIENTIANE – VANG VIENG 3.5 (137km)

VANG VIENG – XIENG KUANG 7hr (234km)

XIENG KUANG – LUANG PRABANG 6hr (261 km)

DAY 1 // VIENTIANE

Welcome arrival from Vientiane airport and transfer to the hotel to relax and refresh.

DAY 2 // VIENTIANE CITY TOUR

Visit the major sights of the capital: Wat Sisaket, the Royal Temple of Wat Prakeo, the Temple of Emerald Buddha. Continue visiting the Patuxai Victory Gate and the That Luang Stupa. After a busy day exploring the city, take advantage of the cool breeze and take a walk along the banks of the Mekong River en-route to the Night Market.

DAY 3 // VIENTIANE – VANG VIENG

Depart from Vientiane and head north for a half a day’s drive to the town of Vang Vieng, popular for its endless choice of outdoor activities available. Vang Vieng exudes a sort of charm similar to that of an old Asian silk painting. Spend the afternoon cycling while you bask on the breath-taking landscape and the natural beauty of the surroundings, from vivid green rice paddy fields, blue lagoons and mysterious caves to serene Karst mountains. End the day’s adventure with a canoe ride along the Nam Song River during sunset.

DAY 4 // VANG VIENG – XIENG KHUANG

Prepare for an exciting road trip as we depart from Vang Vieng, taking long and winding roads through scenic mountain views to the sparsely populated North Eastern provinces of Laos. Get the chance to visit the villages of the Hmong Ethnic groups along the way and see their way of life and culture expressed through their handicrafts. Continue driving until we reach the provincial capital of Xieng Khouang, Phonsavan.

DAY 5 // XIENG KUANG – PLAIN OF JARS

The highlight of today’s trip is a visit to the mysterious Plain of Jars. With its origins still remaining unknown, it is considered the most distinctive and enigmatic of all Laos’ attraction. Listen as your tour guide explains the many legends and stories about these ancient structures. Stop at a mulberry silk farm if time permits.

DAY 6 // XIENG KUANG – LUANG PRABANG

Our trip continues with an early morning drive to reach our last destination, Luang Prabang. Take this time to relax and enjoy a scenic route of rural countryside. With windy roads up to the Northern Central region of Laos where everywhere is surrounded with majestic mountains and tropical jungles. Visit some of the local villages and take some time to enjoy the scenery.

DAY 7 // LUANG PRABANG CITY TOUR

Viist the Morning Market, full of fresh produce and exotic delicacies from farmers coming from surrounding villages. Walk along to the National Museum, once home to the Laotian Royal Family. Continue to the picturesque stupa of Wat Visoun and the shrine of Wat Aham, followed by a visit to Wat Xienthong. Take a small hike up Phou Si for a view of the city.

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PRIVATE TOURS LAOS

DAY 8 // WATERFALLS, JUNGLE & A HILLSIDE HIDEAWAY

Take a short Tuk-Tuk ride to the That Thong waterfall where the trekking begins. Explore the forest and this rarely visited protected area with your guide on small trails. After an exciting uphill walk through cascading waterfalls and jungle trails, you will meet locals in the Khmu village (ethnic minority).

After the village visit, you take another short hike across rice paddies until you reach the Hillside Lodge for lunch. Enjoy the irpool in the afternoon or take another short walk to the view point on the hill, where you can see the Mekong and Luang Prabang on a clear day. Dinner is served at the small restaurant or in the lush gardens.

DAY 9 // POOLSIDE HANGOUT & KUANGSI TREK

After a leisurely breakfast you will be picked up for a short ride through the valley to your start point of the today’s hike. At a Hmong ethnic village you start the 3hr walk to the famous Kuang Si river

and waterfalls. Opposed to the standard access for visitors at the bottom of the falls, you approach the falls from the top, which allows you to enjoy the surrounding nature and the falls without the mass of visiting tourists. Go for a swim as you reach the bottom! Also visit the nearby Asiatic Black Bear rescue centre, which houses a couple of dozen animals rescued from the hands of poachers and traffickers. A tuk tuk will bring you back to Luang Prabang in the late afternoon, or back to the Hillside Lodge.

DAY 10 // MEKONG CRUSISE & PAK OU

Embark on an unique experience; at 10:00 am for a four-hour lunch cruise. During this cruise, the Nava boat stops at the Pak Ou Caves for adventuring among the 4,000 sacred Buddhist statues and images scattered about the two limestone grottoes. The menu onboard offers a variety of Lao dishes. The boat will return to Luang Prabang around 14:30.

DAY 11 // LUANG PRABANG

Transfer from your hotel to the airport for departure.

AUTHENTIC LAOS

Vientiane – Vang Vieng –Phonsavan – Luang Prabang

HIGHLIGHTS:

Visit the mysterious Plain of Jars

Explore Luang Prabang’s former royal capital and spiritual center of Laos.

Easy hike to the multi-tiered turquoisecolored of Kuang Si Waterfall

Vang Vieng’s breathtaking sceneries

TOUR CODE:

* LART019E

* English and other language speaking guides

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