Inspired By Asia brochure 2016
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Transcript of Inspired By Asia brochure 2016
2 Grove Park Court, Harrogate, North Yorkshire HG1 4DP
Telephone 01423 565111 www.inspiredbyasia.co.uk
ABTA No. Y1862 / V8887
Ask your travel agent for a copy of our Australia and New Zealand brochure
FAR EASTFAR EASTFAR EAST2016-172016-172016-17
INSPIRED BYINSPIRED BYINSPIRED BY
ASIAASIAASIAASIAASIAASIAT H E B E S T O F T H E FA R E A S T TA I L O R M A D E
FAR
EA
ST 2016
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ED B
Y ASIA
Best Tour Operator 2014as voted by AITO Independent Travel Agents
T H E B E S T O F T H E FA R E A S T TA I L O R M A D E
INSPIRED BYINSPIRED BYINSPIRED BY
ASIAASIAASIAASIAASIAASIA
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Best Tour Operator 2014as voted by AITO Independent Travel Agents
T H E B E S T O F T H E FA R E A S T TA I L O R M A D E
2 Grove Park Court, Harrogate, North Yorkshire HG1 4DP
Telephone 01423 565111 • www.inspiredbyasia.co.uk
Brochure designed by Andrew Bogle. Printed by Focus All Media.
ABTA No. Y1862 / V8887
Your contract is with Inspired By Asia, a division of The Curzon Corporation Ltd, a member of ABTA.
1. Your Booking ContractWhen you make a booking you guarantee that you have the authority to accept and do accept on behalf of your party the terms of these booking conditions. A contract will exist as soon as we issue our confi rmation invoice. This contract is made on the terms of these booking conditions, which are governed by English Law, and the jurisdiction of the English Courts. You may however, choose the law and jurisdiction of Scotland or Northern Ireland if you wish to do so.
2. Your Financial ProtectionWe provide full fi nancial protection for our package holidays. When you buy an ATOL protected air holiday package from us you will receive a Confi rmation Invoice and an ATOL Certifi cate from us (or via our authorised agent through which you booked) confi rming your arrangements and your protection under our Air Travel Organiser’s Licence number 2949. In the unlikely event of our insolvency, the CAA will ensure that you are not stranded abroad and will arrange to refund any money you have paid to us for an advance booking. For further information visit the ATOL website at www.atol.org.uk When you buy a package holiday that doesn’t include a fl ight, protection is provided by way of a bond held by ABTA, the Travel Association (ABTA Y1862). If you book arrangements other than a package from this brochure, your monies are protected by way of a bond held by ABTA.
3. ABTAWe are a Member of ABTA, membership number Y1862. We are obliged to maintain a high standard of service to you by ABTA’s Code of Conduct. We can also offer you an arbitration scheme for the resolution of disputes arising out of, or in connection with this contract. The arbitration scheme is arranged by ABTA and administered independently. It provides for a simple and inexpensive method of arbitration on documents alone with restricted liability on you in respect of costs. The scheme does not apply to claims for an amount greater than £5,000 per person. There is also a limit of £25,000 per booking. Neither does it apply to claims which are solely in respect of physical injury or illness or their consequences. The scheme can however deal with compensation claims which include an element of minor injury or illness subject to a limit of £1,500 on the amount the arbitrator can award per person in respect of this element. Your request for arbitration must be received by ABTA within eighteen months of the date of return from holiday. Outside this time limit arbitration under the Scheme may still be available if we agree, but the ABTA Code does not require such agreement. For injury and illness claims, you can request the ABTA Mediation Procedure and we have the option to agree to mediation Further information on the Code and ABTA’s assistance in resolving disputes can be found on www.abta.com
4. Your Booking PriceWe reserve the right to alter the prices shown in the brochure. You will be advised of the current price of the arrangements that you wish to book before your contract is confi rmed. When you make your booking you must pay a deposit of £300 per person or 10 percent of the holiday cost (whichever is the greater). For certain arrangements, especially extended overland tours, higher deposits may be required and you will be notifi ed at the time of booking. The balance of the price of your travel arrangements must be paid at least 10 weeks before your departure date. If the deposit and/or balance is not paid in time, we shall cancel your travel arrangements. If the balance is not paid in time we shall retain your deposit. All monies you pay to the travel agent are held by him on our behalf at all times. Prices in the brochure were calculated using the following exchange rates as at 12 August 2015: THB 55.00, MYR 6.20, USD 1.55, SGD 2.20, HKD 12.00. Changes in transportation costs, including the cost of fuel, dues, taxes or fees chargeable for services such as landing taxes or embarkation or disembarkation fees at ports and airports and exchange rates mean that the price of your travel arrangements may change after you have booked. However there will be no change within 30 days of your departure. We will absorb and you will not be charged for any increase equivalent to 2% of the price of your travel arrangements, which excludes any amendment charges. You will be charged for the amount over and above that. If this means that you have to pay an increase of more than 10% of the price of your travel arrangements, you will have the option of accepting a change to another holiday if we are able to offer one (if this is of equivalent or higher quality you will not have to pay more but if it is of lower quality you will be refunded the difference in price), or cancelling and receiving a full refund of all monies paid, except for any amendment charges. Should you decide to cancel for this reason, you must exercise your right to do so within 14 days from the issue date printed on your fi nal invoice. Should the price of your arrangements go down due to the changes mentioned above, by more than 2% of the total cost, then any refund due will be paid to you. However, please note that travel arrangements are not always purchased in local currency and some apparent changes have no impact on the price of your travel due to contractual and other protection in place.
5. If You Change Your BookingIf, after our confi rmation invoice has been issued, you wish to change your travel arrangements in any way, for example your chosen departure date or accommodation, we will do our utmost to make these changes but it may not always be possible. Any request for changes to be made must be in writing from the person who made the booking or your travel agent. You will be asked to pay an administration charge of £30 per altered item, and any further cost we incur in making this alteration. You should be aware that these costs could increase the closer to the departure date that changes are made and you should contact us as soon as possible. Note: Certain travel arrangements (e.g. (but not limited to) air tickets, accommodation, rail or touring products) may not be changeable after a reservation has been made and any alteration request could incur a cancellation charge of up to 100% of that part of the arrangements.
6. If You Cancel Your BookingYou, or any member of your party, may cancel your travel arrangements at any time. Written notifi cation from the person who made the booking or your travel agent on your behalf must be received at our offi ces. Since we incur costs in cancelling your travel arrangements, you will have to pay the applicable cancellation charges up to the maximum shown in clause 7. Note: if the reason for your cancellation is covered under the terms of your insurance policy, you may be able to reclaim these charges.
7. If We Change or Cancel Your BookingIt is unlikely that we will have to make any changes to your travel arrangements, but we do plan the arrangements many months in advance. Occasionally, we may have to make changes and we reserve the right to do so at any time. Most of these changes will be minor and we will advise you or your travel agent of them at the earliest possible date. We also reserve the right in any circumstances to cancel your travel arrangements. For example, if the minimum number of clients required for a particular travel arrangement is not reached, we may have to cancel it. However, we will not cancel your travel arrangements less than 10 weeks before your departure date, except for reasons of force majeure or failure by you to pay the fi nal balance. If we are unable to provide the booked travel arrangements, you can either have a refund of all monies paid or accept an offer of alternative travel arrangements of comparable standard from us, if available (we will refund any price difference if the alternative is of a lower value). If it is necessary to
cancel your travel arrangements, we will pay to you compensation as set out in this clause. Any changes to the actual airline after you have received your tickets will be notifi ed to you as soon as possible and in all cases at check-in or at the boarding gate. Such a change is deemed to be a minor change. Other examples of minor changes include alteration of your outward/return fl ights by less than 12 hours, changes to aircraft type, change of accommodation to another of the same standard. If we make a major change to your booking, we will inform you or your travel agent as soon as reasonably possible if there is time before your departure. You will have the choice of either accepting the change of arrangements, accepting an offer of alternative travel arrangements of comparable standard from us if available (we will refund any price difference if the alternative is of a lower value), or cancelling your booking and receiving a full refund of all monies paid. In all cases, except where the major change arises due to reasons of force majeure, we will pay compensation as detailed below:*
Period before departure within which notice of Cancellation or major change is received by us or notifi ed to you
IF WE MAKE A MAJOR CHANGE TO YOUR HOLIDAYAmount you will receive from us
IF WE CANCELYOUR HOLIDAY
Amount you will receive from us
IF YOU CANCELYOUR HOLIDAY
MAXIMUM amount ofcancellation charge*
More than 56 days56-43 days42-41 days30-0 days
Nil£20£30£50
Deposit onlyMonies paid + £20Monies paid + £30Monies paid + £50
Deposit only50% of holiday cost75% of holiday cost100% of holiday cost
The compensation that we offer does not exclude you from claiming more if you are entitled to do so.
*In some circumstances higher cancellation fees may be applied by certain product suppliers e.g. (but not limited to) airlines, accommodation, rail or touring products. Should this be the case you will be notifi ed of such fees before confi rming your booking and these will apply in the event of a cancellation. These fees may be any amount up to 100% of the value of the product or booking value.
Force Majeure: This means that we will not pay you compensation if we have to cancel or change your travel arrangements in any way because of unusual or unforeseeable circumstances beyond our control. These can include, for example, war, riot, industrial dispute, terrorist activity and its consequences, natural or nuclear disaster, fi re,
adverse weather conditions, epidemics and pandemics, unavoidable technical problems with transport. In accordance with EU Regulation 2111/2005 we are required to advise you of the actual carrier operating your fl ights.
8. If You Have A ComplaintIf you have a problem or any cause for complaint with your travel arrangements, please report it immediately directly to the supplier (e.g. the hotel manager), and as soon as possible bring it to the attention of our local representative / agent. They will try to rectify the problem at the time. If no representative/agent is available, or if they are unable to resolve the matter to your satisfaction, please refer to your travel documents for our contact details. If your complaint cannot be resolved locally having reported it, you must inform our representative/agent in writing whilst overseas and follow this up in writing to us within 28 days of your return home. If you fail to follow this procedure, we cannot accept responsibility for any problem or complaint that could have been rectifi ed there and then had you notifi ed us, the supplier or our representative/agent at the time. For all problems or complaints, failure to comply with this procedure may mean that your right to claim any compensation you may otherwise have been entitled to may be affected or lost as a result.
9. Our Liability to YouIf the contract we have with you is not performed or is improperly performed by us or our suppliers we will pay you appropriate compensation if this has affected the enjoyment of your travel arrangements. However we will not be liable where any failure in the performance of the contract is due to: you; or a third party unconnected with the provision of the travel arrangements and where the failure is unforeseeable or unavoidable; or unusual and unforeseeable circumstances beyond our control, the consequences of which could not have been avoided even if all due care had been exercised; or an event which we or our suppliers, even with all due care, could not foresee or forestall. Inspired by Asia does not accept any liability for any services or facilities which your hotel or any other supplier agrees to provide for you where the services or facilities are not advertised in our brochure and we have not agreed to arrange them. Excursions or other tours that you may choose to book or pay for whilst you are on holiday are not part of your package holiday provided by us. For any excursion or other tour that you book, your contract will be with the operator of the excursion or tour and not with us. We are not responsible for the provision of the excursion or tour or for anything that happens during the course of its provision by the operator. Our liability, except in cases involving death, injury or illness, shall be limited to a maximum of two times the cost of your travel arrangements. Our liability will also be limited in accordance with and/or in an identical manner with any relevant international convention. You can ask for copies of the transport companies’ contractual terms, or the international conventions, from our offi ces in Harrogate. Under EU law (Regulation 261/2004) you have rights in some circumstances to refunds and/or compensation from your airline in cases of denied boarding, cancellation or delay to fl ights. Full details of these rights will be publicised at EU airports and will also be available from airlines. Your right to a refund and/or compensation from us is set out in clause 7. If any payments to you are due from us, any payment made to you by the airline will be deducted from this amount. If your airline does not comply with these rules you should complain to the Air Transport Users’ Council on 020 7240 6061 www.auc.org.uk
10. Prompt Assistance OverseasIf the contract we have with you is not performed or is improperly performed as a result of failures attributable to a third party unconnected with the provision of the services, or as a result of failures due to unusual and unforeseeable circumstances beyond our control, the consequences of which could not have been avoided even if all due care had been exercised, or an event which we or our suppliers, even with all due care, could not foresee or forestall, and you suffer an injury or other material loss, we will offer you such prompt assistance as is reasonable in the circumstances. This brochure is our responsibility, as your tour operator. It is not issued on behalf of, and does not commit the airlines mentioned herein or any airline whose services are used in the course of your travel arrangements. Please note that in accordance with Air Navigation Orders in order to qualify for infant status, a child must be under 2 years of age on the date of its return fl ight.
Published August 2015. Prices valid from January 2016. Booking conditions valid from 1 September 2015.Registered Offi ce Milton House, 33a Milton Road, Hampton, Middlesex TW12 2LL.
BOOKING CONDITIONS
Your Financial Protection When you buy an ATOL protected fl ight or fl ight inclusive holiday from us you will receive an ATOL Certifi cate. This lists what is fi nancially protected, where you can get information on what this means for you and who to contact if things go wrong.
INSPIRED BYINSPIRED BYINSPIRED BY
ASIAASIAASIAASIAASIAASIA
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3INSPIRED BY ASIA
CONTENTS INTRODUCTION 4 About Inspired by Asia
5 Using the brochure
6 Map of the Far East
7 Your choice of Airlines
8 Best for . . .
9 When to Go
10 THAILAND 13 About Thailand
14 Getting married in Thailand
15 Eastern and Oriental Express rail
16 Bangkok
19 River Kwai Tour
20 Chiang Mai & Northern Thailand
22 The Golden Triangle
23 Northern Thailand In Style Tour
24 Lanna Discovery Tour
26 Hua Hin
30 Koh Samui & Koh Phangan
36 Phuket
40 Khao Lak
44 Khao Sok
49 Phi Phi Islands
46 Krabi
50 Koh Samet
51 Koh Lanta
52 Koh Yao Noi
53 Khanom
54 MALAYSIA 57 About Malaysia
58 Kuala Lumpur
60 Best of Malaysia in Style Tour
61 Beyond Kuala Lumpur
62 Penang
64 Langkawi
68 Pangkor Laut
69 East Coast Malaysia
70 Borneo
74 Borneo Tours
76 BALI 79 About Bali
80 Bali
84 Ubud
86 Best of Bali Tour
87 Lombok & Gili Island
88 INDOCHINA 91 About Indochina
93 Best of Indochina Tour
94 Best of Vietnam Tour
95 Best of Vietnam & Cambodia Tour
96 Halong Bay Overnight Cruises
98 Sapa Tour
100 Hanoi
102 Hoi An, Hue and Danang
105 Hoi An Day Tours
106 Nha Trang and Phan Thiet
108 Saigon
110 Mekong Delta
112 Phu Quoc Island
114 Angkor Wat & Phnom Penh
116 BURMA 119 About Burma
120 Best of Burma Tour
122 Burma hotels
124 Burma Cruises
126 CHINA 129 About China
130 Highlights of China Tour
131 Yangtze & Beyond Tour
132 Hong Kong
134 SINGAPORE
136 JAPAN
137 Highlights of Japan Tour
138 Visa Requirements
139 Booking Conditions
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4 inspiredbyasia.co.uk
FIVE GOOD REASONS TO CHOOSE INSPIRED BY ASIA
We are real experts in Far East holidaysWhen it comes to choosing and planning your Far East holiday, you need to deal with people who know the destination inside out. At Inspired by Asia we have the in-depth expertise that makes all the difference. Our team has travelled ex-tensively throughout the region to ensure you can receive first-hand advice, suggestions and tips from those who really have “been there and done that.”
We are proud to be the winner of Best Tour Operator 2014 as voted by AITO Travel Agents.
We can tailor-make your holiday exactly to suit youOur brochure contains a wealth of possibilities, but don’t feel you need to limit your choice to what we feature, because everything is flexible - that’s the beauty of our tailor-made service. Simply tell us where you’d like to go, and what you’d like to do, and we’ll make it happen. Alternatively, if you can’t decide or if you’d like us to help you out with ideas and inspiration - then we’ll be happy to oblige.
We’ll offer support throughout your holidayOur service doesn’t end once you’ve left for your holiday, because we’ll be there for you,
if we’re needed, throughout your stay. Should anything go wrong, you’ll have the peace of mind
to know that we’ll be rapidly contactable, via our local representative or via your travel agent, to put things right.
We can organise all your flightsAll of our holidays begin and end with a flight. So it’s vital that all the arrangements work and that the airline matches or exceeds your expectations. Inspired by Asia only work with quality scheduled airlines with a proven record in customer satisfaction and the flexibility to cope with complex or unusual itineraries.
We are fully bonded to give you peace of mindYou can rest assured that the air holidays and flights in this brochure are ATOL protected by the Civil Aviation Authority under ATOL 2949, and for holidays which do not include air travel, your financial protection is administered by ABTA number Y1862/V8887.
Your Financial Protection
When you buy an ATOL protected flight or flight inclusive holiday from us you will receive an ATOL Certificate.
This lists what is financially protected, where you can get information on what this means for you and who to contact if things go wrong.
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5INSPIRED BY ASIA
USING YOUR INSPIRED BY ASIA BROCHURE
Hotel ratings
Each country has its own
method for rating a hotel,
making it difficult to
provide a consistent
classification.
Therefore we
have rated the
hotels ourselves.
This is based on
our personal hotel
inspections and the
advice of our locally-
based representatives. We have only chosen
what we consider to be four and five star
properties, ranging from hotels that can be
described as good value for money with
superior standards, to world-class, luxurious
resorts of the highest quality.
Hotel refurbishments and renovations
Every hotel will, from time to time, have
to take steps to maintain its rooms and
facilities. We will do our utmost to bring
any such work due to take place, to your
attention, as soon as we are notified.
Hotel special offers
The Far East is a great region for a special
offer. During low and shoulder seasons we
have negotiated some exciting deals, such
as free nights and free room upgrades, with
many shown throughout this brochure. We
receive new offers during the year; see our
website www.inspiredbyasia.co.uk for the
very latest.
Special requests
If you have dietary requirements, a disability
we need to be aware of, or simply have a
preference such as a low-floor room, please
let us know at the time of booking. We will
pass on your requirements to the relevant
hotels and tour companies.
Passports, visas and health
Most destinations require that you have
at least six months remaining on your full
passport and, if required a visa. For visas
we recommend the Travel Visa Company.
Call 01270 250 590 or visit their website at:
www.thetravelvisacompany.co.uk
For vaccination requirements or
recommendations please contact your
doctor. It is your responsibility to satisfy
these requirements.
Weddings and honeymoons
We can arrange your wedding in the Far
East. There are some superb locations
and resorts to choose from. Using the
hotel’s own wedding planner and our local
representative, we can check every detail to
make it a perfect event. Most of the hotels
featured have honeymoon offers, too many
to list here. Please call us for further details.
Flights
Prices in this brochure do not include
flights, unless specifically stated in the
inclusions of some touring products.
We are specialists in organising flights to
fit in with tailor-made itineraries and can
secure some exceptional deals with many
of the leading carriers to the Far East. While
many people these days prefer to book their
own flights online, we do warn clients that
tickets bought this way can be inflexible if
you need to make changes. Booking your
flights through Inspired by Asia is likely
to prove a cheaper and far more flexible
option.
Airport transfers
Where possible, we have provided private
transfers for you. This means that when you
arrive at the airport you will be met by our
local representative and transferred directly
to your accommodation.
Insurance
It is essential that you have adequate travel
insurance, and we strongly recommend that
you arrange this with your travel agent, at
the time of booking.
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6 inspiredbyasia.co.uk
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7INSPIRED BY ASIA
YOUR CHOICE OF AIRLINES
Celebrating over 50 years of service, Thai Airways International operates a
daily direct service from London Heathrow to Bangkok on its state-of-the-
art flagship A380 aircraft, with convenient con-
nections from Bangkok to over 70 destinations
worldwide - including over 10 in Thailand.
Malaysia Airlines, the national carrier of Malaysia, is recognised as
one of Asia’s largest, flying more than 50,000 passengers to some 100
destinations across 6 continents every day. It currently offers 14 weekly
direct flights between the United Kingdom
and Malaysia linking London with the
Malaysian capital, Kuala Lumpur.
Vietnam Airlines offer non-stop flights from London Heathrow to both Ho Chi
Minh City and Hanoi with onward connections in Indochina & South East
Asia. Reducing journey times to Vietnam by as much as seven hours, the
direct service brings one of Asia’s most inspiring countries closer than ever.
The airline operates a 787-9 series aircraft offering
Economy, Economy Deluxe and Business Class.
Award-winning Emirates is one of the fastest grow-
ing airlines in the world. Emirates operates 17 daily
flights from 6 UK airports; London Heathrow, London
Gatwick, Manchester, Newcastle, Birmingham, and
Glasgow. With such an extensive network, it’s easy to
combine Dubai with a host of other destinations around
the world for an unforgettable travel experience.
Singapore Airlines has evolved into one of the most
respected travel brands around the world. They have
one of the world’s youngest fleet in the air and a network
spanning five continents. With 4 non-stop flights daily
from London Heathrow and a daily flight from Manchester
with easy connections at Singapore’s Changi airport,
Singapore Airlines takes you to the heart of the Far East.
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8 inspiredbyasia.co.uk
BEST FOR . . .INSPIRED BY ASIA RECOMMENDS
• Thong Nai Pan Noi Beach, Koh Phangan,
Thailand - page 35
• Pansea Beach, Phuket, Thailand - page 38
• Tanjong Jara Beach, Malaysia, - page 69
• Datai Bay, Langkawi, Malaysia - page 65
• Ngapali Beach, Ngapali, Burma - page 122
• Tower Club at Lebua, Bangkok, Thailand
- page 17
• Harbour Grand Kowloon, Hong Kong -
page 133
• Traders Hotel Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia -
page 59
• Renaissance Riverside Hotel, Saigon,
Vietnam - page 109
• Shangri-La Hotel, Bangkok - page 17
• The Andaman Langkawi, Malaysia - page 66
• Shangri-La Rasa Ria Resort & Spa,
Borneo, Malaysia - page 71
• Elephant Hills, Khao Sok, Thailand - page 45
• Cape Panwa Hotel, Phuket, Thailand -
page 39
• Conrad Bali Resort & Spa, Bali - page 83
• Danum Valley Tour, Borneo, Malaysia -
page 74
• Jungle Lake Safari, Khao Sok, Thailand -
page 45
• The Best of Burma Tour - page 120
• The Best of Indochina Tour - page 93
• The Best of Bali Tour - page 86
• Fusion Maia, Danang, Vietnam - page 104
• Spa Village Tombok, Bali - page 80
• Pangkor Laut, Malaysia - page 68
• The Sarojin, Khao Lak, Thailand - page 41
• Sala Samui, Koh Samui, Thailand - page 31
• Borneo Rainforest Lodge, Borneo,
Malaysia - page 73
• Aava Resort & Spa, Khanom Thailand -
page 53
• Taman Negara Resort, Mutiara Taman
Negara, Malaysia - page 61
• Elephant Hills, Khao Sok, Thailand - page 45
• Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp & Resort, Thailand - page 22
You have a wonderful choice of hotels and tours throughout the Far East. To make it easier, we have put together our top choices in a variety of categories.
BEST for BEACHES
BEST for CITY VIEWS
BEST for FAMILIES
BEST for ADVENTURE
BEST for SPA TREATMENTS
BEST for WLDLIFE
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9INSPIRED BY ASIA
WHEN TO GO
The west coast (Phuket/Khao Lak/Krabi):
November - February.
The Gulf of Thailand (Koh Samui/Koh
Phangan/Hua Hin/Koh Samet): December -
August.
The north (Chiang Mai/Chiang Rai):
November - March.
Bangkok December - April.
May - September
April - May and September - October
The west coast (Langkawi/Penang):
December - April.
The east coast (Kuala Terengganu): May -
October.
Borneo (Sabah): March-October - but very
little difference year round.
Kuala Lumpur December - February and
May - August.
November - April
February - October
North Vietnam (Hanoi/Halong Bay):
February - April.
Central Vietnam (Hue/Danang/Hoi An/Nha
Trang): March - August.
Southern Vietnam (Saigon/Mekong Delta/
Phu Quoc): December - April.
Cambodia October - April.
Laos October - April.
November - February
October - May
Weather conditions vary throughout the Far East. Here we have given our recommendations for the best time to visit for an enjoyable stay.
THAILAND
BALI
CHINA
MALAYSIA
BURMA
SINGAPORE
INDOCHINA
HONG KONG
JAPAN
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10
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11
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12 inspiredbyasia.co.ukTHAILAND
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13INSPIRED BY ASIA THAILAND
THAILANDThailand is an enchanting country with a rich cultural tradition, where the people
are warm and friendly and the scenery is often breathtaking. This is a land of
ancient temples, tantalising cuisine, pristine beaches and tropical rainforests.
From elephant camps to world class resorts, Thailand has something for everyone.
Getting there There are over 30 direct flights weekly from the UK to Thailand, including Thai Airways, EVA Air and British Airways. There are also many indirect flights via Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Doha, Kuala Lumpur and Singapore. The flying time is generally around 12 hours.
Guide to the country Almost all visitors will include a stop in Bangkok, at the start or end of their Thailand holiday, and for good reason. Bangkok is an exciting city of bustling streets and markets, historic sights such as the Grand Palace. Five hundred miles to the north lies Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai and the beautiful mountain scenery of Northern Thailand, linked with so much history. The sandy beaches of Pattaya and Hua Hin continue to increase in popularity, as road links with Bangkok improve making them easier to reach. The islands of Thailand have always been popular, with dramatic views and great beaches. Choose from a superb range of islands, from established ones such as Phuket and Koh Samui to some newly discovered paradises such as Koh Phangan. Krabi features the rocky outcrop scenery seen in so many films, and the quiet but tranquil Khao Lak, just north of Phuket continues to delight visitors.
When to go Most visitors arrive during Thailand’s dry season, from November through February. The weather during this period is pleasantly warm and sunny, though airline and hotel prices reflect this and are higher than at other times of the year. April and May are usually the hottest months (though Thailand is never cold at any time during the year) when temperatures will be in the low to mid 30°C. May to October is generally considered to be low season as rainfall is high, though there is always sunshine between the downpours. Bear in mind that Thailand’s two most popular resorts, Phuket and Koh Samui, have differing rainy seasons. The best time to go to Phuket (in the west) is from November to March, while Koh Samui (in the Gulf of Thailand), is at its best during June to September.
Important to note British passport holders don’t need a visa
unless staying for more than 30 days and the passport has at least six months validity. Thailand is 7 hours ahead of GMT. The currency is Thai Baht. Vaccinations are only a requirement if you are travelling close to the border of Burma, or if you are exploring deep into the jungle. For full details of vaccination requirements contact your doctor.
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14 inspiredbyasia.co.ukTHAILAND
GETTING MARRIED & HONEYMOONS IN THAILAND
Thailand offers a rich and varied
culture and many beautiful
locations for a wedding.
Getting married in Thailand can
be a wonderful thing, especially
when you have the authorities
on your side. Inspired by Asia in
conjunction with Asia World will
help to arrange all legal matters
and administrative details for
clients of any nationality who
wish to get married in Thailand.
By staying a few working days
in Bangkok, you can ensure
that all legal procedures are
covered. Asia World will help you
prepare all the documentation
prior to your arrival, and until
the wedding procedures are
finalised and legalised. Once
married we can arrange your
wedding celebration in most
Thai beach locations.
Prior to Arrival You will need to complete the typed Affidavit
Form and prepare all required original
documents. Clients are required to send their
completed Affidavit Form to Inspired by Asia
for review before arrival.
Bangkok itinerary
You will need to have at least 3 working days
in Bangkok. We recommend the Dusit Thani
or The Banyan Tree as ideal locations during
your stay as they are relatively close to the
offices you need to visit. See pages 17-18 for
details and prices. Ideally you should stay for
4 nights.
Day 1 At 8am you will be met in the lobby
of your hotel and transferred to the British
Embassy to sign the Affirmation Form.
Day 2 At 8am you will be picked up at your
hotel and transferred to the British Embassy
to collect your passports and Affirmation
Form. A nearby certified translation office
will translate the Affirmation Form into Thai,
then you will be transferred to the Thai
Ministry of Foreign Affairs to authenticate the
documents. You will register the marriage at
the Thai District Office and wait for the Sworn
& Unite documents from the British Embassy.
Day 3 Asia World will pick up the Sworn &
Unite documents and deliver this and all
other documents to your hotel.
Documents Required
1. Original passports
2. Original Divorce Certificate or Death
Certificate of former spouse (Only for a
Divorcee or Widow/ Widower)
3. Completed, typed Affidavit Form (to be
signed at the British Embassy)
Price from £440 per person.
Wedding celebrationOnce you are married we can arrange
the wedding service. We have a range of
outstanding beachside hotels that can host
your wedding. They all offer a variety of
packages and can perform the service as
a Western ceremony or a Thai ceremony.
A typical wedding package includes the
following (prices are approximately £2000 per
couple but vary depending on your choice of
hotel. Price excludes accommodation):
• Your personal wedding planner including
consultation and pre-wedding meeting
prior to the wedding date
• Wedding Celebrant
• Pre-consultation with your Wedding
Celebrant prior to the wedding day
• Secluded Beach for the Wedding
Ceremony
• Decoration of the secluded wedding
beach with tropical flowers, floral arch,
walking aisle and accessories
• Bouquet for the bride with your own
choice of local seasonal flowers
• Buttonhole for the groom
• Sparkling wine for the Bride & Groom for
toasting
• Decorated flower tray for the wedding rings
• The planting of a baby coconut tree
ceremony
• In-room honeymoon floral decoration after
your wedding
• A bottle of sparkling wine served in your
room on the night of your wedding
• Hair/make up service
• Photographer
HoneymoonsInspired by Asia can arrange your ideal
honeymoon from 5 nights to 15 nights
in a superb range of hotels that offer
idyllic locations.
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15INSPIRED BY ASIA THAILAND
EASTERN & ORIENTAL EXPRESS RAIL JOURNEYS
Enjoy a panoramic view of the
mystical landscapes of Thailand,
Singapore and Malaysia aboard
the majesty and splendour of
the Eastern & Oriental Express
train. With its comfortable
and elegant cabins, delicious
cuisine and superb service,
this is a truly unique way to
experience the full wonder of
this remarkable region. Prices
include a luxury air-conditioned
cabin with en suite facilities, all
table d’hôte meals on board and
sightseeing tours.
Dates of departure on request.
3 DAY BANGKOK - CHIANG MAI - BANGKOK This two-night experience departs from
and returns to Bangkok. It takes you to the
northern Thailand cities of Lampang and
Chiang Mai, steeped in history and culture.
Day 1 Depart from Bangkok and settle into
your private cabin as the train rolls through
the countryside. Dress up for dinner as the
sun sets, sitting down to a decadent menu
showcasing local specialities. Afterwards,
head to the Bar Car and relax with fellow
travellers before retiring to your elegant
converted cabin.
Day 2 Arrive in Lampang early morning,
taking a traditional horse-drawn carriage to
Ban Sao Nak, the House of Many Pillars.
Brunch is served on the train before
continuing to Chiang Mai, where you will
have a choice of excursions. Full details of
available tours will be presented to you on
board. After an afternoon of sightseeing,
return to the train for an indulgent dinner
and an evening at your leisure.
Day 3 After breakfast, depart the train
at Bangkok for your onward travel
arrangements.
Prices from £1580 per person, based on a
twin-share cabin.
4 DAY BANGKOK - SINGAPORE The two contrasting cities of Singapore and
Bangkok symbolise the excitement and
diversity of Asian metropolitan life. The
ultimate way to discover these iconic cities is
to journey between them aboard the Eastern
& Oriental Express, through gently unfolding
rural landscapes, past temples, tea
plantations, colonial cities, ancient villages
and historic monuments.
Day 1 Depart from Bangkok and settle into
your private cabin as the train rolls through
Bangkok City to countryside. Dinner is
served in one of the luxurious dining cars.
Afterwards, head to the Bar Car to relax
with fellow travellers or retire to your cosy
converted cabin.
Day 2 After breakfast, disembark at the
River Kwai Bridge station for a leisurely
cruise along the river guided by a local
historian. Later in the morning, join a visit
to an evocative war museum and optional
war cemetery. Return to the train and look
forward to an exceptional lunch and dinner.
Day 3 Spend the morning watching the
changing scenery with breakfast in bed
as the train travels through Malaysia. After
brunch, disembark at the Butterworth
station and cross to Penang Island, exploring
its pre-World War II mosques, temples,
churches, bazaars and shophouses.
Rejoin the train for a refreshing cocktail
accompanied by live piano music before a
glamorous final dinner on board.
Day 4 Arrive in Singapore for your onward
travel arrangements.
Prices from £1640 per person, based on a
twin-share cabin.
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16 inspiredbyasia.co.ukTHAILAND
BANGKOK
Travel Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi
Airport is served by numerous
International airlines. The
airport is 16 miles from the city,
with a journey time of between
45-60 minutes, depending on
the time of day. We can arrange
for you to be met on arrival at
the airport and a private car
transfer to your hotel from £23
per person.
Bangkok is notorious for traffi c
gridlock so we recommend
visitors utilise the Skyrail
monorail. The more adventurous
can sample a ‘tuk-tuk’, the three
wheeled street cab, but always
agree the fare fi rst.
Attractions No visitor should
miss a visit to the Grand Palace
and the Temple of the Emerald
Buddha, or a trip on the klongs
(canals) and fl oating market.
Dinner on an outside deck of a
cruise on the Chao Phraya River
is a relaxing way to see the city
skyline and riverside activity.
Further afi eld we offer tours to
the infamous River Kwai and
historic ancient city of Ayuthaya.
When to go Bangkok is hot all
year round with temperatures
averaging around 30-35°C. The
best time to visit is between
December and January when
it’s slightly cooler and drier.
The wet season is from May
to October, coinciding with the
hottest time of the year.
Bangkok is like no other city in the world,
a discovery for even the most seasoned
of travellers. Ancient golden temples,
mystical pagodas, saffron-robed monks,
towering skyscrapers and bustling open-
air markets. You can explore the city
sights by river bus or tuk-tuk, browse
for bargains at the local markets, marvel
at the Grand Palace and sample the
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17INSPIRED BY ASIA THAILAND
BANYAN TREE BANGKOK
One of the tallest luxury spa hotels in the city, The Banyan Tree Bangkok
is just a 40-minute drive from the airport. The hotel enjoys a central
position within the central business and embassy district, but with easy
access to the shopping and entertainment area of Silom Road. Facilities
include a gym, spa, yoga sessions, health club and pool. Wide range of
bars and restaurants with perhaps the most spectacular being the awe-
inspiring views from Virtigo and Moon Bar, 61 storeys above ground.
Offer Receive up to a 15% earlybird discount. Conditions apply.
Prices from £75 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
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ANANTARA BANGKOK RIVERSIDE RESORT
With its classical Thai architecture, lush gardens and cool river breezes
the Anantara Bangkok Riverside Resort & Spa offers all the tranquility of
a resort. Take the free shuttle boat to the Skytrain station for access to
the city and night market. Rooms offer great garden or river views from a
private balcony. Facilities include a wide choice of restaurants and bars,
an outdoor swimming pool, jacuzzi, sauna, tennis, fi tness centre and
spa. Free smart phone use in every room.
Offer Receive up to 20% off early bird deal. Offer dates vary.
Prices from £53 per person per night, based on room only.
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BANGKOK Hotels
TOWER CLUB AT LEBUA SHANGRI-LA HOTEL BANGKOK
Tower Club at Lebua offers breathtaking views of Bangkok from suites on
the 51st to 59th fl oors. Non-alcoholic minibar, Nespresso machine, and
bathroom amenities, are all complimentary, as is access to the Tower
Club Lounge with its continental breakfast, light luncheons, high tea,
canapés and alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages until 6pm. Choose
from one, two and three bedroom luxury suites. Facilities include a
rooftop bar and choice of restaurants, fi tness centre and pool.
Offer Receive up to a 15% discount when booked in advance. Dates vary.
Prices from £76 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
With lush gardens and sweeping river views, the Shangri-La Hotel
Bangkok offers an elegant and exotic location on the banks of the Chao
Phraya River. This award-winning hotel, consistently voted as one of the
best in the world, has recently undergone an extensive renovation to
maintain its high standards. For accommodation there is a choice of two
wings including the exclusive Krungthep Wing. Facilities include CHI, the
spa, outdoor pool, gym, sauna, 3 bars, dinner cruise and 4 restaurants.
Offer Receive free breakfast when staying 3 nights. Dates vary.
Prices from £71 per person per night, based on room only.
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18 inspiredbyasia.co.ukTHAILAND
ORIENTAL RESIDENCE BANGKOK
ROYAL ORCHID SHERATON HOTEL & TOWERS
Commanding a prime position on Wireless Road in the heart of
Bangkok’s shopping and embassy district, the Oriental Residence
Bangkok epitomises casual elegance and traditional luxury. Airy and
elegant accommodation includes a choice of hotel rooms, one, two and
three bedroom suites, all with fully equipped kitchens and superb city
and park views. Some suites have balconies. Facilities include a bar, a
boutique-style café, gym, outdoor pool and a kids pool.
Offer Receive up to a 15% discount when booking in advance. Dates vary.
Prices from £63 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
Located on the famous Chao Phraya River with unrivaled views, the
Royal Orchid Sheraton is only a boat ride away from prime shopping
areas, business district and the famed historical attractions. With 726
panoramic river view rooms, enjoy fi ve-star family friendly amenities
including a choice of two swimming pools surrounded by a tropical
garden, a luxurious spa and 5 superb restaurants.
Offer Receive a 15% discount when booking in advance. Offer dates vary.
Prices from £42 per person per night, based on room only.
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BANGKOK Hotels
DUSIT THANI BANGKOK
REMBRANDT HOTEL BANGKOK
Dusit Thani Bangkok has been a landmark for over 40 years, offering
guests world-class service with gracious Thai hospitality. Dusit Thani
Bangkok offers unrivalled value, with its combination of well-designed
facilities (including a large outdoor pool) in a convenient central location.
With both the BTS Skytrain and MRT underground public transportation
services right at its doorstep, the city’s business, shopping and
entertainment districts are all just moments away.
Offer Receive 3 nights for the price of 2 nights in low season.
Prices from £47 per person per night, based on room only.
The Rembrandt Hotel Bangkok is a modern stylish hotel centrally located
in the Sukhumvit area of Bangkok, ten minutes away from the Asoke
Sky Train and Sukhumvit Underground (MRT) stations. Facilities include
a spa, a fully equipped Fitness Centre, Pool Bar, and international
standard restaurants. Superior rooms are located on the lower fl oors,
Deluxe rooms on the higher fl oors and Executive rooms on the top fl oors.
Family rooms feature a King double bed and bunk beds for the children.
Offer Receive 4 nights for the price of 3. Offer dates vary call for details.
Prices from £26 per person per night, based on room only.
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19INSPIRED BY ASIA THAILAND
RIVER KWAI & ELEPHANTS TOUR 3 Day Small Group Tour
Savour the historic sights of the
River Kwai region on this three
day small group tour with an
English speaking guide. The
scenery is impressive: jungle-
covered hills, spectacular gorges
and beautiful river views. Enjoy an
Elephant ride through a bamboo
forest and a stay in a floating
villa with a choice of budget
or luxurious accommodation.
Departs daily from Bangkok.
Includes• 2 nights accommodation• Air-conditioned vehicle• Touring as shown• All meals• Entrance fees• Pick up / drop off at your Bangkok hotel
Day 1 Bangkok to Kanchanaburi Early morning
start at your Bangkok hotel with an 0600 hrs
pick up (note: you can leave your luggage
stored at your Bangkok hotel while on the tour
and just take a small bag). Then the drive west
to the Kanchanaburi region. Journey times
varies according to the traffic but generally
around 3 hours. Visit the Thailand-Burma
Railway Centre; an interactive museum and
research facility dedicated to presenting the
history of the Thailand-Burma Railway. Visit
the Allied War Cemetery which is a memorial
to some 6,000 allied prisoners of war who
perished along the death railway line. See
the world famous Bridge over the River Kwai.
Then enjoy a long-tailed boat journey through
unspoilt mountainous jungle scenery to your
chosen accommodation. After lunch take a
boat ride to the Resotel Pier and continue your
tour with a visit to the Hellfire Pass Memorial.
Return to your choice of accommodation for
some rest and relaxation. Dinner is served
followed by a 45-minute presentation of
traditional Mon Dances.
Day 2 Mon Tribal Village visit & elephant ride Morning at leisure. Swim in the river, use the
provided canoes or just relax and enjoy the
spectacular scenery. After lunch visit a Mon
Tribal Village before enjoying a guided elephant
ride (optional) through the bamboo forest.
Return to your hotel for late afternoon at leisure
before dinner.
Day 3 Kanchanaburi to Bangkok Breakfast
and morning at leisure before checking out
at 1100 hrs and proceed to lunch at a local
restaurant. Take a historic ride on the Death
Railway Train through lush forest, passing over
the original wooden viaduct constructed by
Allied prisoners of war. Then return to Bangkok
by air-conditioned vehicle, arriving back at your
hotel at approximately 1800 hrs.
Choice of Accommodation
River Kwai Jungle Rafts Hotel (above)
Basic and rustic close-to-nature floating
bamboo raft room with natural cooling from
the river underneath the raft. There’s no use
of electricity here and room is lit by a lantern.
Includes a private bathroom and terrace. The
Jungle Restaurant offers all day dining and
Jungle bar for drinks.
The Float House River Kwai (top, left)
Luxurious boutique floating villas on a
magnificent stretch of the River Kwai. The
elegant and spacious villas feature a rain
shower, a private terrace with sun lounger and
a swing chair. The floating restaurant and bar
offers all day dining and drinks.
Prices Budget option (Jungle Rafts) from £189
per person, based on twin-share. Luxury option
(The Float House) from £299 per person,
based on twin-share.
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20 inspiredbyasia.co.ukTHAILAND
CHIANG MAI & NORTHERN THAILAND
Travel Chiang Mai and Chiang
Rai airports are served by
regular scheduled services from
Bangkok with a fl ying time of
70 minutes and 85 minutes
respectively. Both airports are
a 20 minute transfer to the
cities. For the Anantara Golden
Triangle allow an hour for the
transfer.
Attractions Wat Phra Trat
Doi Suthep is Chiang Mai’s
most important landmark and
overlooks the city from its
forested mountain backdrop.
Close to both cities are hill tribe
villages. An elephant-back ride
through the lush jungle is a
pleasant way to experience the
spectacular scenery.
When to go Northern Thailand
is warm all year round but the
coolest period is November
to February - temperatures
are a maximum of 25°C, with
an occasional chill in the
mornings. Temperatures rise
to a maximum of 40°C during
the hottest period from March
to June and some visitors may
fi nd this period too hot. The
wet season lasts from July to
October. Downpours and high
humidity occur. Rainfall is
unpredictable so a few dry days
can be followed by a few wet
days. Temperatures at this time
average 30°C.
Chiang Mai is located over 400 miles to
the north of Bangkok and set amongst
the highest mountains in the country,
offering superb views. This culturally
signifi cant city features historic temples,
markets and an interesting old walled
town. Further north is Chiang Rai and the
Golden Triangle. An area home to several
hill tribes with fascinating ways of life.
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21INSPIRED BY ASIA THAILAND
CHIANG MAI Hotels
RACHAMANKHA
KANTARY HILLS HOTEL
ANANTARA CHIANG MAI RESORT & SPA
TAMARIND VILLAGE CHIANG MAI
Perfectly located in the centre of the ancient city of Chiang Mai,
Rachamankha, is renowned for its incredible architecture and its
peaceful and private atmosphere. Just 22 rooms and 2 suites set in 2
acres of manicured gardens the architecture pays homage to the Lanna
period, offering guests a unique place to stay. The property is more a
work of art than a hotel and features the owners collection of Asian art.
Restaurant, bar, library, massage spa and a superb 20 metre pool.
Offer Honeymooners receive a free bottle of wine for 2 night stays.
Prices from £54 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
This stunning hotel and apartment property, located a short drive from
the centre of Chiang Mai, offers the luxury of a fi ve star hotel at four star
prices. Featuring stylish and spacious studio, one and two bedroom
suites with kitchen facilities. Parties of 3 or more will appreciate the
benefi t of a one or two bedroom apartment with separate living space.
Facilities include a swimming pool, sauna, whirlpool, executive lounge,
restaurant, bar and coffee shop.
Offer Receive 3 nights for the price of 2 during low season.
Prices from £31 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
Superbly located on the banks of the renowned Mae Ping River each of
the resort’s 84 rooms and suites offers a contemporary-Asian design and
boasts private courtyards, open balconies and breathtaking views of the
gardens and river. Facilities include a restaurant set within a split-level
Colonial house offering riverside dining, a choice of bars, a swimming
pool, fi tness centre, yoga/aerobics rooms and a spa. The Anantara
Chiang Mai offers an elegant retreat in the heart of an historical city.
Offer Earlybird discounts apply. Offer dates vary, call for details.
Prices from £78 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
Tamarind Village is a unique and charming boutique property in the
heart of historic Chiang Mai. Set amid ancient temples and quaint
shopping streets, it takes its name from a magnifi cent 200 years old
tamarind tree that shelters the hotel. The 42 guest rooms and 3 suites
are set around a series of garden courtyards, echoing the ethnic
diversity of North Thailand. Facilities include an outdoor pool, a spa and
restaurant.
Offer Receive a 10% earlybird discount. Call for details.
Prices from £50 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
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22 inspiredbyasia.co.ukTHAILAND
GOLDEN TRIANGLE
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ANANTARA GOLDEN TRIANGLE ELEPHANT CAMP & RESORT
Perched on a hill overlooking the hills of
Burma and Laos, Anantara’s Golden Triangle
Elephant Camp & Resort is as enchanting as
the region in which it is located. Surrounded
by the natural beauty of Northern Thailand’s
rugged hill country, this luxury natural retreat
is set amidst 160 acres of lush tropical
jungles overlooking the winding Mekong
River. The refreshing chill of a Northern Thai
sunrise shrouded in mountain mist. The rush
of a longboat ride up the Mekong to Laos.
The exhilaration of riding an elephant through
bamboo jungle along the border of Burma.
Accommodation
58 Deluxe rooms, 3 Country View rooms
each with superb views of the hills and
forested mountains of three countries
from balconies with built-in sofas. The 19
spacious Anantara Suites combine traditional
Thai art and high design, featuring hardwood
floors, double balconies and open bathrooms
with oversized tubs for two.
Facilities
At the end of a perfect day, relax in the
hilltop infinity-edged swimming pool
overlooking the Mekong Valley. Enjoy a Thai
massage or relax in an outdoor tub at the
Anantara Spa. There are three restaurants
and a bar offering a range of dining options.
The Elephant Camp
Unique to the Anantara Golden Triangle,
the Elephant Camp is a traditional mahout
(elephant-trainer) village, located in the
jungle within walking distance of the resort.
Set up as a centre for the conservation of
elephants this camp offers guests of the
resort a remarkable opportunity to observe
the elephants up close, learn to drive an
elephant, watch them bathe in the river and
see how the mahouts live.
Golden Triangle 2 Day Tour Includes 1 night 3 Country View
accommodation, dinner on day one,
breakfast and lunch on day two, house
wine and local beer with meals, minibar,
one time visit to the Opium Museum, a
daily activity choice of a spa treatment,
elephant training (including riding,
feeding and bathing an elephant), a 3
country tour and a cooking class.
Offer Receive a 10% discount off the price
when booking at least 90 days in advance.
Dates of validity vary. Call for details.
Prices from £375 per person based on twin
share.
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23INSPIRED BY ASIA 23
NORTHERN THAILAND IN STYLE 6 Day Private Tour
Begin your Northern Thailand
tour in the heart of the Golden
Triangle with a 2 night stay at
the remarkable Anantara Resort,
where you can feed, bathe and
ride elephants. Visit the city of
Chiang Rai on the Kok River
before finishing with two nights in
Chiang Mai, blessed with stunning
mountain scenery and historic
temples.
This is a private tour with first class
accommodation throughout, and
the services of an English-speaking
guide. Flights are not included.
Departs daily.
Includes• 5 nights hotel accommodation• Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp & Resort for 2 nights including all meals• Free daily activity at Anantara G.Triangle• Golden Triangle touring• Legend Chiang Rai Resort for 1 night• Hill tribe village visits and river cruise• Anantara Chiang Mai for 2 nights• Chiang Mai tour• Breakfast daily and other meals as shown • Private touring with English-speaking guide • Air-conditioned vehicle
Day 1 Arrive Chiang Rai Met on arrival at
Chiang Rai airport and privately transferred
(around 1 hour) north to the Anantara
Golden Triangle Resort and Spa (see page
22) for a two night stay. We recommend
arriving into Chiang Rai as early as possible
to make the most of your stay here. This
luxury natural retreat is set amidst 160 acres
of lush jungle, overlooking the Mekong
River. All meals included and you can
choose from one activity per day (included)
from a choice of elephant training (which
features bathing and feeding elephants), a
spa treatment, a cooking class or a visit to
the nearby Opium Museum.
Day 2 Anantara Golden Triangle Full day to
enjoy the facilities and activities at this hotel.
Day 3 Golden Triangle touring Enjoy
breakfast at the Anantara from the terrace
with wonderful views of the hills and river
below. Travel by private, air-conditioned van
and begin your tour with a visit the village of
Doi Mae Salong, set high amidst magnificent
mountainous scenery. Visit to the hill tribe
villages of Yao and Akha before continuing
to the northernmost border trading town of
Mai Sai. Here you can shop for interesting
items from Thailand and Burma. Arrive in
the city of Chiang Rai and check in to the
four-star The Legend Chiang Rai Resort for
a 1 night stay. Relax by the infinity pool,
experience the spa (optional, additional
cost) and restaurant which is set on the
river’s edge with fine riverside views.
Day 4 Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai Today
you’ll experience the countryside and
villages set between Chiang Rai and Chiang
Mai, which are 115 miles apart. Visit a Long
Neck Hill Tribe Village and Shan Village then
enjoy a long-tailed boat ride on the Mae
Kok River. After lunch (included) continue
on to Chiang Mai, a culturally significant
city set amongst the highest mountains in
the country. Visit a Buddhist shrine and an
elaborate cave network where local guides
take you into the cool inner caves. Check
in to the Anantara Chiang Mai (see page
19) for a 2 night stay. The Anantara enjoys
a superb location on the banks of the Mae
Ping River and close to the centre of the city
and old quarter.
Day 5 Chiang Mai touring Today join a tour
that will take you up into the mountains,
to the acclaimed temple Wat Phrathad
Doi Suthep. Built in A.D.384 and situated
at 3500 feet above sea level, this is a
significant temple with panoramic views
of the city. After lunch continue on to San
Kampaeng and Bo-Sang Village. These
locations are renowned for their local cottage
industries and handicrafts. Return to the
Anantara Chiang Mai for the rest of the day
at leisure.
Day 6 Depart Chiang Mai Morning at leisure
before your private transfer to Chiang Mai
Airport to end your tour.
Prices from £1199 per person, based on
twin share.
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24 inspiredbyasia.co.ukTHAILAND
LANNA DISCOVERY 5 Day Private Tour
Experience the charm of North
Thailand on this five-day tour.
You’ll see the impressive temples
of both Chiang Rai and Chiang
Mai and learn about the Lanna
kingdom. Sit back and relax as
your guide takes you through the
stunning scenery. Enjoy a boat
ride on the Kok River, a visit to
the infamous Golden Triangle
and a chance to meet hill tribes
in their villages. This is a private
tour that departs on a daily basis.
Flights are not included.
Includes• 2 nights Legend Hotel Chiang Rai• 2 nights Tamarind Village Chiang Mai• Breakfast daily, 3 lunches 1 traditional dinner• Air-conditioned vehicle• Touring as shown with an English- speaking guide• Entrance fees• Pick up at Chiang Rai airport and drop off at Chiang Mai airport
Day 1 Arrive Chiang Rai Met on arrival and
privately transferred to the Legend Chiang
Rai for a 2 night stay in a Superior Studio
room. Resting on the banks of the Mae Kok
River, the 4 star Legend Chiang Rai delivers
an authentic Lanna atmosphere with its
blend of northern Thai architectural details,
local artwork and hand-plastered white
walls. Facilities include an infinity-edged
pool and a spa. Some time to relax and
enjoy the beautiful setting of this hotel. In
the afternoon visit a local market in Chiang
Rai, then on to a local temple; Wat Phra
Kaew. This is one of Chiang Rai’s most
famous Buddhist temples and is a good
example of classic Lanna architecture.
Continue on to the 14th century temple:
Wat Phra Singh. Return to your hotel which
features a riverside terrace restaurant with
superb views.
Day 2 Chiang Rai – Golden Triangle Enjoy a
leisurely breakfast before a morning boat trip
on the Kok River to a Hilltribe village. Lunch
is provided in the infamous ‘Golden Triangle’
area, where the borders of Thailand, Burma
and Laos meet. Tour the Golden Triangle
with its sights and sounds of traditional life
that differs so much to that of the western
world. Return to The Legend Hotel for your
2nd and final night.
Day 3 Chiang Rai – Chiang Mai After
breakfast check out and depart with a road
trip to Thaton to visit the Akha and Padong
longneck hill tribe villages. This is a rare
opportunity to see a traditional way of life
in a beautiful country setting. Take a walk
through the villages with your guide and
meet the local people. After lunch continue
to Chiang Mai. The drive from Chiang Rai
to Chiang Mai is approximately 3 hours in
total. On arrival in Chiang Mai take a drive
up to the acclaimed temple, built in AD 384;
Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep, home to a holy
relic of the Lord Buddha and considered by
many to be the most sacred Wat (temple) in
northern Thailand. There are far reaching
views of Chiang Mai and the surrounding
countryside from this hilltop temple, situated
at 3500 feet. Check in to your Chiang Mai
hotel; Tamarind Village for a 2 night stay in a
Lanna room. This is a unique and charming
4 star property with a great location in the
historic old quarter of the city. Facilities
include a pool, spa and restaurant. In the
evening a traditional ‘Khantoke’ dinner is
served with typical Thai dishes from the
northern region. Elegant Thai dancers
perform.
Day 4 Chiang Mai After breakfast visit an
elephant camp to see the elephants at
work during a half hour presentation. There
is an opportunity to watch the elephants
take their morning bath. During your visit
to the elephant camp you’ll b able to ride
an elephant in a one hour trek through
the surround lush forest. After a Thai set
lunch at the camp enjoy a leisurely cruise
on a bamboo raft along the Ping River.
Visit an Orchid Farm before returning to
the Tamarind Village for your 2nd and final
night. There is a street market on most
nights of the week which is just a short walk
from your hotel.
Day 5 Depart Chiang Mai Breakfast then
a private transfer to Chiang Mai Airport for
your onward journey.
Prices from £729 per person, based on twin
share.
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HUA HIN
Travel Hua Hin is located
approximately 106 miles
from Bangkok. We can
arrange for you to be met on
arrival at Bangkok Airport
for an immediate private
car transfer to your Hua Hin
accommodation, from £40 per
person. There are fl ights from
Bangkok to Hua Hin, but the
service is unpredictable, so we
recommend a land transfer.
Attractions Phra Nakhon Khiri
(Khao Wang) is a spectacular
palace, dating back to 1869, set
on a hill with impressive views.
It features a Chedi, not unlike
that of those seen at the Grand
Palace in Bangkok.
The railway station is worth a
look as it refl ects the history
of the town with its impressive
royal waiting room. There is a
fi ne choice of beaches all along
this coast.
When to go September through
to February is generally the best
time to visit Hua Hin, when
the skies are clear and it’s less
humid. Temperatures don’t
vary too greatly throughout the
year; usually between 27°C and
35°C. The rainy season is from
April to August and, although
humid, Hua Hin is not as hot as
Bangkok due to the cooling sea
breezes wafting off the Gulf of
Thailand.
Hua Hin is closely associated with Thai
royalty and located on the sunrise side of
the Thai Gulf, some three hours south-
west of Bangkok. Essentially Hua Hin is
a quiet and relaxing seaside resort with a
fi ne stretch of sandy beach and a host of
attractions nearby such as national parks
and historical sites. Six of the country’s
best golf courses are within easy reach.
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HUA HIN Hotels
HHHHH
CENTARA GRAND BEACH RESORT & VILLAS HUA HIN
Experience the luxury of an exquisite
colonial-style hotel set in delightful tropical
gardens and bordering a stretch of sandy
beach. This historic hotel dates back to 1923
and has fully retained its old-world charm.
AccommodationThere are 207 luxuriously appointed rooms
and suites, including the Club executive fl oor,
each with its own private balcony overlooking
the ocean or landscaped gardens. High
ceilings, period-style furniture and a décor
that uses rich polished hardwood softened
by the warm tones of Thai silk evoke the
spirit of the 1920s. The 42 villas set amongst
the extensive gardens, with spacious living
accommodation and the option of their own
pool, offer privacy along with the ultimate in
luxury. All rooms have fl at screen TVs with
international channels, room safe, minibar,
tea and coffee making facilities, hairdryer,
and high speed Internet access. The Club
offers unrivalled levels of facilities and
services with exclusive Club Lounge access,
including fi ve daily meal presentations,
cocktails and concierge service.
FacilitiesWith its location on the beachfront, the hotel
is perfect for swimming and boating, and just
for lazing on the beach. Two putting greens,
four swimming pools, two tennis courts, a
snooker room, badminton, table tennis and
a Fitness Centre offer superb opportunities
for leisure and keeping fi t, and there is a
children’s playground. It was the building of
the railway line that spurred the development
of the little fi shing village of Hua Hin into a
playground for Thailand’s aristocracy in the
1920s.
The Royal Hua Hin Golf Course opened in
the same year as the Railway Hotel, and has
in recent years been joined by several other
international standard courses, making the
little town a prime destination for golfers.
With the spacious tropical gardens forming a
backdrop, SPA Cenvaree offers a full range
of luxurious massage and body treatments
combining ancient Asian therapies with
modern technology that detoxifi es and re-
mineralises the body and soothes the mind.
Choice of 5 restaurants, a café and bar.
Offer Receive up to 7 nights free during the
low season.
Prices from £83 per person per night,
including breakfast daily.
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HUA HIN Hotels
Nestled in 14 acres of beautifully luxuriant tropical gardens on a secluded seafront, the Anantara Hua
Hin Resort & Spa offers a romantic honeymoon hideaway or the ultimate family getaway in the classic
seaside resort of Hua Hin. Reminiscent of an ancient Thai village the hotel offers 187 rooms, each with a
balcony or terrace with built-in sofas overlooking the gardens. Facilities include two infi nity-edged pools,
a swim-up bar, spa and fi ve bars and restaurants. Shuttle bus to Hua Hin (10 minute journey).
Offer Earlybird discounts available. Offer dates vary, call for details.
Prices from £47 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
Characterised by its impeccable service and elegant accommodation, the hotel has been described as
“one of the most distinctive in Hua Hin”. Perched on the shores of Hua Hin’s breathtaking beach, the
hotel offers easy access to the seaside town’s street markets, shopping, restaurants and nightlife. Each
room at the stunning Cape Nidhra Hotel has a private pool. Facilities include a fi ne dining restaurant,
rooftop bar, fi tness centre, pool, sauna, spa and water sports.
Offer Receive up to 4 nights free during low season.
Prices from £75 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
ANANTARA HUA HINRESORT & SPA
HHHHH
CAPE NIDHRA HOTELHHHHH
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HUA HIN Hotels
Featuring contemporary accommodation in an idyllic garden setting, Amari Hua Hin is adjacent to Khao
Takiab beach, just 10 minutes from Hua Hin’s downtown area. Amari Hua Hin features 223 modern
rooms ranging from deluxe rooms to expansive suites. The rooms are stylishly furnished and offer guests
spacious living areas. Hotel facilities include an outdoor pool, kids’ club, spa, fi tness centre and a free
shuttle bus to Hua Hin. The Amari Hua Hin is just two and a half hours drive from Bangkok.
Offer Receive up to 4 nights free. Offer dates vary. Call for details.
Prices from £45 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
Commanding an unspoilt beachfront location, the Dusit Thani Hua Hin combines sumptuous comfort
with traditional Thai style. An ornamental lake, lily pond and tropical gardens fl ank a magnifi cent
swimming pool. 296 rooms offer panoramic views of the sea, gardens or pool. Hotel facilities include two
pools, a children’s pool, a fi tness centre, tennis courts, squash courts, sauna, steam room, Jacuzzi and
spa. Excellent choice of bars and restaurants. Shuttle bus to Hua Hin.
Offer Receive up to 15 night free. Dates vary, call for details.
Prices from £61 per person per night, based on room only.
AMARIHUA HINHHHH
DUSIT THANIHUA HINHHHHH
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KOH SAMUI & KOH PHANGAN
Travel Koh Samui is well served
with fl ights from Bangkok,
Krabi, Chiang Mai, Phuket as
well as Singapore and Hong
Kong. The fl ying time from
Bangkok is 60 minutes. Access
to Koh Phangan is via Koh
Samui, with speedboat transfers
(45 mins) arranged by the
hotels.
Guide to the beaches Situated
on Koh Samui’s east coast,
Chaweng is the island’s longest
beach, with four miles of
powder-soft sand. It has the
island’s largest concentration
of accommodation and is by
far the busiest and liveliest
part of the island with a noisy
social scene at night. The north
coast features the beaches of
Maenam, Bo Phut and Bang
Rak; all of which are ideal
places for those who want to
get away from it all. On Koh
Phangan we feature two hotels
on beautiful Thong Nai Pan Noi
Beach.
When to go February to June
is the hot and dry season
with temperatures touching
40°C. May to September have
some short, sharp downpours
but are cooler months with
temperatures in the mid to
late 30°C and calmer seas.
The rainy season extends from
October through to January.
Koh Samui and the
smaller island of Koh
Phangan located to
the north, are both
set within the Gulf of
Thailand and offer
beautiful sandy beaches and an island way
of life. Both feature lively resorts, such as
Samui’s Chaweng beach, but also offer a
signifi cant number of upscale boutique-
style properties in quiet, scenic locations.
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KOH SAMUI Hotels
SALA Samui is a stunning pool villa boutique resort, located on 80 metres of pristine white sandy
beach on the north-east tip of the island, just ten minutes from Koh Samui Airport. Featuring the
luxury of a private pool in 53 of a total of 69 villas and suites, the resort offers stylish and comfortable
accommodation. SALA Samui boasts two beachfront pools, including a 25-metre lap pool surrounded by
four massage salas fl oating in a beautiful lotus pond. Spa, gym, library, beach bar and two restaurants.
Offer Receive up to a 15% earlybird discount. Call for details.
Prices from £86 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
The Tongsai Bay is a family owned hotel, hidden amongst 25 acres of breathtaking natural beauty and
overlooking a sandy bay, renowned for its privacy and tranquillity. The sandy beach is 200 metres long.
Cottage Suites are set on the hillside amongst the gardens with sea views. The Seafront Cottage Suites
are on the cliff-edge with sea views, while the Beachfront Suites are in a 3 storey building by the pool
with pool or sea views. Facilities include 2 pools, watersports, spa, tennis, gym, 2 restaurants and a bar.
Offer Receive up to 3 nights free. Offer dates vary. Call for details.
Prices from £100 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
SALA SAMUIRESORT & SPA
HHHHH
TONGSAI BAYHHHHH
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KOH SAMUI Hotels
Set in pretty landscaped gardens, privacy and tranquillity reign at the Bo Phut Resort & Spa, located on
Bo Phut Beach within walking distance of Fishermans Village with its range of bars and restaurants. With
61 rooms including 32 villas, some with private pools, two restaurants, an impressive spa and a pool this
is a place to relax. All the rooms, suites and villas are indulgently spacious and contemporary yet retain a
defi nite Thai style with the use of natural materials.
Offer Free room upgrade for 6 nights or more earlybird deal. Dates vary.
Prices from £68 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
The Belmond Napasai Koh Samui is an oasis of luxury, located along Mae Nam Beach on the north
coast of Koh Samui. The resort’s exclusive, picturesque split-level beach is the largest on the island. The
surrounding 17 acres of lush tropical garden further add to the sense of romantic privacy. Spacious villas
offer sea views from private patios and a stylish Thai décor. Facilities include a beautiful infi nity pool, a
spa, two bars, choice of four restaurants, and an 8-hole championship golf course a short drive away.
Offer Receive up to a 30% discount when booking in advance. Conditions apply.
Prices from £70 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
BO PHUTRESORT & SPA
HHHHH
BELMONDNAPASAIHHHHH
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KOH SAMUI Hotels
The charming Zazen Boutique Resort & Spa occupies an idyllic spot in the north of Koh Samui in walking
distance of nearby beachfront bars and restaurants. Intimate and relaxed, the 26-room resort sits beside
the white sand beach of Bophut. Distinctive bungalows are set amongst a verdant tropical garden and
offer quality furnishings combined with in-room entertainment. The restaurant is renowned as one of the
best on the island. Facilities include a pool, signature spa, water sports and gym.
Offer Receive a Baht 2000 credit to spend in the spa, for 10 night stays.
Prices from £62 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
A stunning beachfront resort featuring private pool villas and a spa located on an exclusive beach at
Thongson Bay, Koh Samui. The resort is conveniently located just a 10 minute drive from the airport
and only a 10 minute drive to Fisherman’s Village with its choice of bars and restaurants. Set amongst a
tropical landscape the villas and suites extend down the hill to a white sandy beach. Facilities include two
pools, choice of bars and restaurants, a spa, a fi tness centre, library and a kids club.
Offer Receive up to 4 nights free. Offer dates vary, call for details.
Prices from £84 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
ZAZEN BOUTIQUERESORT & SPA
HHHHH
MELATI BEACHRESORT & SPA
HHHHH
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KOH SAMUI Hotels
The Bandara Resort and Spa offers a great location set on the beachfront at popular Bo Phut beach, on
the north coast of Koh Samui. Set in extensive tropical gardens it offers space and serenity with the lively
Fisherman’s Village, with its range of bars, cafes and restaurants, nearby. Accommodation comes in a
range of deluxe hotel rooms and villas. Facilities include 4 pools including a kids’ pool, watersports, spa,
restaurant, lobby bar and beachfront bar.
Offer Receive up to 4 nights free. Dates vary. Call for details.
Prices from £58 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
The Amari Koh Samui is set on Chaweng beach, but at the quieter more secluded northern end of
Samui’s most popular stretch of coastline. With elegant Thai-style buildings, divided by a small road, set
either on the beach or in tropical gardens, this boutique resort offers 197 spacious Thai-style rooms with
either a balcony or terrace. Guests can enjoy two free-form swimming pools, kids’ pools, a jacuzzi, the
fi tness centre, a spa, watersports and a PADI dive centre. Two bars and two restaurants.
Offer Receive up to 4 nights free. Offer dates vary. Call for details.
Prices from £69 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
BANDARARESORT & SPA
HHHH
AMARIKOH SAMUI
HHHH
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KOH PHANGAN Hotels
The Anantara Rasananda Koh Phangan Villa Resort & Spa is an oasis of villas and suites sprawled over
200m of sea-view frontage, along the pristine white sands of Tong Nai Pan Beach, just 35 minutes from
Koh Samui by speedboat. The 64 Villas and Suites all feature an individual pool and terrace or balcony.
The expansive main pool features bubble beds and massage jets and guests will enjoy the spa with yoga
classes available. The signature restaurant features both alfresco and covered seaside dining.
Offer Receive up to a 15% discount earlybird deal. Dates vary. Call for details.
Prices from £86 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
Hidden amongst swaying palm trees on the secluded white sandy Thong Nai Pan Noi Beach with clear,
turquoise water you will find Buri Rasa Village. Choose from a range of stylish room types with either
garden, pool or ocean view and ocean front. Facilities include a beachside restaurant offering Thai,
western and BBQ cuisines, a beach bar, an outdoor pool, spa and gym. Excellent diving opportunities
nearby.
Offer Receive up to a 15% discount with an earlybird deal. Call for details.
Prices from £52 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
ANANTARA RASANANDA KOH PHANGAN
VILLA RESORT & SPAHHHHH
BURI RASA VILLAGEKOH PHANGAN
HHHHH
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PHUKET
Travel There are scheduled
fl ights to Phuket from Bangkok,
with a journey time of around
70 minutes. The airport is to the
north of the island and transfer
times vary from 10-60 minutes.
Inspired by Asia can pre-book
private airport transfers to your
hotel.
Guide to Phuket’s beachesPatong beach boasts a long
stretch of sandy beach, lively
night markets, restaurants, bars
and evening entertainment. Cape
Panwa is a secluded location
with a lovely private beach.
Karon beach is close to Patong,
relatively quiet but with a good
choice of bars and restaurants.
Bang Tao offers a white sandy
beach and inland lagoons
which link fi ve of Phuket’s
most sophisticated hotels. Kata
beach is popular with families.
The secluded bay and fi shing
village of Kamala still retains
its small-town atmosphere with
restaurants lining the beach.
When to go The dry, coolest
period is from November to
February and this proves to
be the most popular time
for visitors. The rainy season
from June to October brings
a mixture of sunshine and
tropical downpours, with spring
from March to May offering hot
weather (35°C). Generally the
temperature throughout the year
averages 30°C.
Set just off Thailand’s
south-west coast, Phuket
is the country’s largest
island, and blessed
with magnifi cent coves
and bays, palm-fringed
beaches and numerous sparkling islands.
Phuket is also the gateway to numerous
island resorts dotted throughout the
Andaman Sea.
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PHUKET Hotels
This luxury resort offers a serene setting perched upon a secluded cove commanding an impressive view
of the blue Andaman Sea. There are 48 romantic pool villa units perfect for honeymooners. Each villa has
a private infi nity pool, sunken lounge, bath with rain shower. The interior design combines soft colours
and natural textures with oriental touches. Facilities include a stunning beachfront restaurant, spa,
fi tness centre, library and free use of all the facilities at its sister resort, Katathani.
Offer Receive up to 5 nights free during the low season.
Prices from £189 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
The Katathani Phuket Beach Resort is a popular, well established hotel facing 850 metres of unspoilt
white sandy beach in secluded Kata Noi Bay, just a 20 minute drive south of Patong. There are two wings
but we offer the Junior Suites in the deluxe Thani Wing, all with full or partial sea views from a private
balcony/terrace. It’s just a short stroll across the lush gardens to the beachfront. Facilities include six
pools, three jacuzzis, spa, two fi tness centres, tennis, games room, library, bars and six restaurants.
Offer Receive up to 10 nights free during the low season.
Prices from £75 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
THE SHOREAT KATATHANI
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KATATHANI PHUKET BEACH RESORT
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PHUKET Hotels
The Surin Phuket elegantly punctuates the tropical landscape along the island’s fi nest white sand beach
at the tranquil Pansea Beach on the west coast of Phuket Island. The collection of cottages and suites
are linked by jungle walkways. The cottages are nestled within the hillside and enjoy partial sea views
while suites offer direct beach access. Facilities include a large pool with beach views, two restaurants, a
café, a sunset bar, spa, gym, tennis and watersports. Walking distance to nearby bars and restaurants.
Offer Receive a 25% earlybird discount during the low season.
Prices from £75 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
The Dusit Thani Laguna is a beach front resort with a 200-metre white sandy beach, set on beautiful
Laguna Phuket Bang Tao Bay, Asia’s fi rst integrated resort development, located on the west coast of
Phuket. It is 30 minutes drive south of Phuket International Airport and half an hour north of Patong
Beach. Facilities include an excellent swimming pool, bars and restaurants. Guests staying in the Laguna
complex have access to the full range of other hotel facilities, providing unparalleled choice.
Offer Receive up to 3 nights free. Offer dates vary, call for details.
Prices from £45 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
THE SURIN PHUKETHHHHH
DUSIT THANI LAGUNAPHUKETHHHHH
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PHUKET Hotels
Touching Nai Yang Beach on Phuket’s northwest shore, Indigo Pearl greets guests with a hidden
sanctuary just moments from the Andaman Sea. Featuring post modern architecture with a Thai
tradition, this hotel refl ects Phuket’s heritage as a former tin mining centre while offering a distinctive
atmosphere that will intrigue guests. Spacious and stylish rooms face the gardens, some with a private
pool. Facilities include 3 pools, an award-winning spa, watersports, fi tness room, tennis, Thai cooking
classes, a kids club and a choice of bars and restaurants.
Offer Receive up to 7 nights free during low season.
Prices from £63 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
INDIGO PEARLHHHHH
6
Renowned for its excellent service and exclusive beach, Cape Panwa Hotel’s accommodation includes
Superior rooms, Junior Suites, comfortable Family Suites, stylish Cape Suites and four remarkable
Cape Signature Suites. Six, two bedroom pool villas offer space and privacy, each with a private pool
overlooking the idyllic coconut grove and beach. Facilities include two pools, a playroom and pool, spa,
watersports, fi tness centre, fi ve restaurants and fi ve bars and regular trips to nearby Coral Island.
Offer Receive up to 10 nights free. Offer dates vary. Call for details.
Prices from £38 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
CAPE PANWAHOTELHHHH
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KHAO LAK
Travel Khao Lak is accessed
with flights via Phuket Airport,
located one hour south of
Khao Lak. Inspired by Asia can
arrange for you to be met on
arrival at Phuket Airport and
privately transferred to your
accommodation at Khao Lak.
Attractions Khao Lak is
surrounded by national parks
of outstanding beauty and
day trips can be arranged to
experience the rainforests
and maybe catch a glimpse of
some wildlife. The Similan and
Surin Islands Marine National
Parks, among the world’s top
dive sites, are less than an
hour away by boat. Phang Nga
Bay, renowned for its sheer
limestone formations and
hidden caves and lagoons is
40 minutes away by car.
When to go The dry, coolest
period is from November to
February and this proves to
be the most popular time
for visitors. The rainy season
from June to October brings
a mixture of sunshine and
tropical downpours, with spring
from March to May offering hot
weather (35°C). Generally the
temperature throughout the
year averages 30°C.
Khao Lak is an area of
outstanding beauty. Pure
white beaches, cascading
waterfalls, spectacular
primary forest, idyllic
lagoons, estuarine
mangroves and wildlife abound. Khao Lak is
surrounded inland by five spectacular and
adventurous national parks, including the
magnificent primary rain forests of Khao Lak
and Khao Sok as well as one of Thailand’s
largest natural mangrove ecosystems.
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KHAO LAK Hotels
HHHHH
THE SAROJIN
Situated just an hour from Phuket International
Airport in Khao Lak on a secluded 11km white
sandy beach, The Sarojin is ideal for couples,
romantic breaks, honeymoons, weddings and
older family groups.
Designed in a contemporary Asian style with
just 56 luxurious guest residences. Wide
range of activities and facilities - snorkel,
scuba or cruise on a luxury boat, jungle
adventures complete with champagne,
glimpse authentic Thai local life, on tours
of the area, in association with responsible
and sustainable tourism commitment,
rejuvenating spa massages lulled by the
sounds of the Andaman sea, Thai cooking
classes, lazy gourmet lunches, romantic
diners on a secluded beach or by a candlelit
jungle waterfall . . . the limits are only your
imagination.
Note: No children under 10 years are
permitted to stay.
Accommodation and facilities
All 56 guest rooms are spacious with king-
sized beds, luxurious bathrooms with intimate
couples baths. Choose from Garden, Pool
Residences (private pool) or Sarojin Suites.
Facilities include 3 pools (2 for adults only),
2 restaurants, 2 bars, a wine cellar, private
dining, spa, gym and a luxury boat.
Offer Receive up to a 15% discount when
booking in advance. Call for details.
Prices from £145 per person per night,
including breakfast daily.
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KHAO LAK Hotels
A stunning beachside resort and sister hotel to the Katathani Resort Phuket. Set on the golden sands of
Nang Thong Beach and surrounded by coconut groves. Facilities include five swimming pools, a mini
water slide, three bars and two restaurants, a fitness centre, spa and Thai cooking classes. Located in the
centre of Khao Lak, walking distance to an array of bars and restaurants. Spacious rooms offer a balcony
or terrace with ceiling fan and day bed.
Offer Receive up to 10 nights free during the low season.
Prices from £42 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
The Waters Khao Lak by Katathani is an adult-friendly resort located in the hear of Bang Niang Village
which offers a range of bars and restaurants, all within easy walking distance. The beach at Bang Niang
is just a 400 yard stroll from the hotel. The 189 stylish rooms feature a private balcony and most with a
pool view. Hotel facilities include six swimming pools, a fitness centre, an in-house Italian restaurant, a
swim-up bar and a free shuttle bus to and from the beach.
Offer Receive up to 10 nights free during low season.
Prices from £21 per person per night including breakfast daily.
THE SANDSBY KATATHANI
HHHH
THE WATERSKHAO LAK
BY KATATHANIHHHH
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KHAO LAK Hotels
The elegant and boutique La Flora Resort and Spa is located right on a golden sandy beach, just an
hour’s drive from Phuket Airport. Offering 138 guest rooms (Deluxe room pictured), including 13 exclusive
villas, pool access and deluxe rooms, all with a contemporary Asian style set in low rise buildings spaced
throughout the gardens. Hotel facilities include an infinity-edged swimming pool, a free-form swimming
pool, a kids’ pool, watersports, a fitness centre, tennis, a spa and a beachfront restaurant.
Offer Receive up to 10 nights free. Offer dates vary. Call for details.
Prices from £48 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
Manathai Khao Lak is a 158-room resort, located on a stretch of unspoiled Bangsak Beach in one of
Thailand’s most beautiful regions, just an hour north of Phuket. This new resort offers a large pool with
sea views and authentic dining in two restaurants. Facilities include a pool bar, gym, kids club and
cooking classes. There is a complimentary, frequent shuttle bus to Khao Lak town. Rooms are spacious
and feature Thai handicrafts and are located throughout the lush gardens.
Offer Receive a 10% discount earlybird offer.
Prices from £25 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
LA FLORARESORT & SPA
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MANATHAIKHAO LAKHHHH
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KHAO SOK NATIONAL PARK
Travel Your package includes all scheduled transfers
to and from Elephant Hills. Transfer options
are Phuket, Khao Lak, Krabi, Phang Nga,
Surat Thani, Khanom, Don Sak Pier and even
Koh Samui. The nearest airport is Surat Thani
(1 hour transfer). Phuket Airport is a 2 hour
transfer. All these transfers can be combined
at no surcharge e.g. you can be picked up at
Phuket Airport and dropped off at your Koh
Samui hotel.
Khao Sok National Park in south
Thailand is a spectacular place
to visit. It is covered by the oldest
evergreen rainforest in the world,
huge limestone mountains shooting
straight up in the air, deep valleys,
breathtaking lakes, exciting caves,
wild animals and much more.
Elephant Hills Children’s Project The Children’s project started in 2005 and
over the years has helped to build a library,
donate to playgrounds and buy sporting
equipment for three schools in Khao Sok
which are sadly lacking in equipment and
funds. £10 of your booking with be matched
by Inspired by Asia and a donation made
towards this worthwhile project.
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45INSPIRED BY ASIA THAILAND
KHAO SOK NATIONAL PARK
Elephant Hills is Thailand’s first luxury jungle camp combining
the experience of an African Safari with a Thai Forest setting. The
scenery is dramatic; jungle covered limestone peaks and a forest with
an array of animals and plants. Accommodation is in 30 luxurious
tents, all with an en suite bathroom. The tents are spacious and well
protected against mosquitoes and other intruders. There is an attractive
restaurant, a log fire to sit around with drinks and a swimming pool.
The Rainforest Camp is 16 luxury floating tents, set spectacularly on
Cheow Larn Lake. Each floating tent includes an en suite bathroom, a
comfortable double bed and a sun deck to sit and enjoy the amazing
views of the lake and the rainforest mountains. Guests can canoe off
from their own deck (canoe hire included) to explore the lake and
perhaps spot the monkeys or array of birdlife. Guided canoe tours are
also included. Facilities include a restaurant and bar.
Elephant Hills 3 Day Jungle Lake Safari
Day 1 Arrive Elephant Hills You will be met on arrival at your chosen
airport and transferred to Elephant Hills. On arrival at the resort enjoy
lunch before a Canoe Safari down the Sok River. In the afternoon enjoy
the ‘Elephant Experience’. Interact with the Elephants and learn the
secrets of their mahouts. You will prepare and feed the elephants one of
their daily meals, scrub and clean and watch them bathe.
Note No riding on, or trekking with the elephants. This is truly a once
in a lifetime chance to experience the Asian Elephant, the largest land
animal in this part of the world. Relax by the pool then dinner and
overnight.
Day 2 Cheow Larn Lake After breakfast depart by truck and then by
longtailed boat to the luxury floating tents on Cheow Larn Lake. A stop
is made at a local market en route. Enjoy self paddle canoeing on the
lake and look out for monkeys swinging through the trees. Lunch and
dinner and overnight.
Day 3 Depart Cheow Larn Lake Breakfast then either relax by the lake,
canoe or take the guided jungle trek. After lunch depart the lake with a
boat and vehicle transfer to your chosen location.
Note we can also offer 2 and 4 day Safaris. No children under 7 at the
Rainforest Camp.
Prices from £340 per person, based on twin share.
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46 inspiredbyasia.co.ukTHAILAND
KRABI
Travel Krabi is well served with
regular scheduled fl ights from
Bangkok, with a fl ying time
of around 70 minutes. The
transfer time from Krabi Airport
to the resorts varies from 30-40
minutes. Alternatively many
travellers use the access point
of Phuket with its greater range
of fl ights. Inspired by Asia can
then arrange a transfer from
Phuket with a journey time of
around 2½ hours.
Guide to the beaches Ao Nang
is the centre of the tourist
scene in Krabi. The beach,
pretty but unspectacular,
has the safest swimming in
the region. Klong Muang and
Tubkaak beaches are located
to the north of Ao Nang and
offer a quieter environment with
superb sea views and direct
access to beautiful white sand
beaches. Resorts here tend to
be luxurious and self-contained;
outside of these resorts there
are only a handful of shops and
restaurants.
When to go The ideal time is
November to April, the hot and
dry season, when there are
calm seas and clear blue skies.
The rainy season - May to Oct -
is cooler with days punctuated
with short sharp downpours.
Average temperatures
throughout the year vary
between 28-32°C but reach
36°C during March and April.
Krabi, located 500 miles
south of Bangkok on
Thailand’s south-west
coast, offers white-
sand beaches, backed
by dense rainforest
and lapped by clear waters; some of the
best in Thailand. Krabi offers some great
excursions including day trips to the Phi
Phi Islands and snorkelling at Koh Hong
Island.
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47INSPIRED BY ASIA THAILAND
KRABI Hotels
Nestled on the white sand of Tubkaak Beach with superb views towards the limestone peaks of the Ko
Hong Archipelago. Rooms are located in two storey buildings set around the pool and gardens, or on
the beachfront with a terrace and an unrivalled sea view. Premier pool villas offer ultimate privacy for a
romantic getaway and the Beach Pool villas are only steps away from the gentle waves of the Andaman
Sea. Facilities include a bar and restaurant, spa, sauna, swimming pool, jacuzzi, gym, and library.
Offer Receive up to 2 nights free during the low season.
Prices from £75 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
A member of Leading Hotels of The World, Rayavadee is a 5 star luxury resort surrounded by beautiful
beaches, dramatic limestone cliffs and tropical landscapes at the heart of Krabi’s stunning Phranang
Peninsula. The resort’s 98 enchanting two-story pavilions and four luxurious beachfront villas are spread
over 26 acres of coconut groves, their spacious interiors and décor providing unsurpassed comfort for
the property’s highly discerning guests.
Offer Receive up to 4 nights free. Offer dates vary call for details.
Prices from £136 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
THE TUBKAAK KRABI BOUTIQUE RESORT
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RAYAVADEEHHHHH
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48 inspiredbyasia.co.ukTHAILAND
KRABI Hotels
The Centara Grand Beach Resort sits majestically within its own private bay with impressive views. The
resort has a direct beachfront location facing 500 metres of pristine white sand. This resort of 192 rooms
and pool villas is linked to the town of Ao Nang by free boat transfers. Rooms are spacious and include a
‘living-room-style’ terrace complete with a lounge and dining area. Facilities include two pools, a kids’ club
and pool, jacuzzi, gym, watersports, a spa and choice of bars and restaurants.
Offer Receive up to 8 nights free. Offer dates vary. Call for details.
Prices from £81 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
Nestled discreetly in a secluded area, just steps away from the pristine, white sand Klong Muong Beach,
lies the Dusit Thani Krabi Beach Resort. This beachfront hotel is only moments away from the beautiful
cliff formations, lush forests, waterfalls and caves the province in known for. Offering 240 guest rooms
and suites, two inviting beachfront pools, a variety of restaurants and a spa set in the vast tropical
gardens, the Resort is the perfect retreat for families.
Offer Earlybird discounts for advanced bookings. Call for details.
Prices from £45 per person per night including breakfast daily.
CENTARA GRANDBEACH RESORT & VILLAS
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DUSIT THANIKRABI BEACH RESORT
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49INSPIRED BY ASIA THAILAND
PHI PHI ISLANDS
The Phi Phi Islands
are an archipelago of
six islands. The superb
scenery of the islands
includes high hills with
jutting cliffs surrounded
by marvellous beaches
and emerald sea,
hiding underneath a
bank of coral reefs and
colourful marine life. It
is easy to see why Phi
Phi is one of the most
popular destinations in
Southern of Thailand.
How to get there
Zeavola Resort is located
approximately 30 miles from
Phuket and can be reached
within a 1 hour crossing.
Zeavola offers a speed boat
transfer service to guests with
a scheduled daily departure
from and to the Resort.
Guests can be met at Phuket
Airport and transferred (30
minutes) to the Royal Yacht
Marina in Phuket where the
speedboat departs to Zeavola.
Prices on request.
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ZEAVOLA RESORT
Zeavola is the definition of barefoot luxury: a Thai
rural village concept with teakwood. This charming
resort is a romantic retreat with only 53 villas
located on Phi Phi Island’s north coast. Blending
traditional Thai influences and a charming feel of
rustic Thailand with more contemporary touches.
Relax amongst the lush tropical garden and enjoy
the beautiful beach-front location.
Accommodation
Village and Garden Suites enjoy a tropical garden
setting with the Garden Suites slightly larger than
the Village Suites. Beachfront rooms offer direct
access through the gardens to the beach while
the secluded and private Pool Villa Suites are set
on the hillside offering magnificent views and a
private pool.
Activities and facilities
Zeavola offers guests a stunning beach, Pool,
PADI Dive Centre, Spa & Massage, 2 Restaurants
by the beach and a bar. In addition to offering
boutique style scuba diving packages, Zeavola
offers guests several other ways to explore the
beauty of the Phi Phi National Marine Park.
Individually tailored island hopping adventures by
speed boat; scenic tours aboard a traditional Thai
long tail boat; or leisurely sailing aboard their 32’
yacht, Smooth, are all available on request. Laem
Tong Beach is where Zeavola Resort is located. It
is a great place for first time snorkellers, just along
the reef drop off which runs parallel to the beach
and continues all the way up north to the Tong
Cape. Take a kayak and paddle along to explore on
your own.
Offer Receive up to 2 nights free. Offer dates vary.
Call for details.
Prices from £101 per person per night, including
breakfast daily.
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50 inspiredbyasia.co.ukTHAILAND
KOH SAMET
Koh Samet is just a
short drive and boat
ride from Bangkok.
Offering a beautiful
natural habitat, this
small island features
a striking southern
coastline and stunning
white sandy beaches.
Something of a secret,
it’s well worth exploring,
particularly for the views
and amazing sunsets.
How to get there
There is a two-and-a-half
hour drive from Bangkok to
Jadet Pier, in the province of
Rayong. This is followed by a
15-minute private speedboat
to Koh Samet, where you’ll
be met and transferred to the
hotel. We can arrange for
you to be met on arrival at
Bangkok Airport and privately
transferred to the pier for the
boat journey, or alternatively
collected from your Bangkok
accommodation. From £90
per person.
BANGKOK
Koh Samet
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PARADEE
Hidden away at the southern tip of Koh Samet,
Paradee features two secluded palm-fringed
beaches. This couples only resort offers a
get-away-from-it-all atmosphere for discerning
travellers. All 40 luxuriously appointed villas
have magnificent views of either the lush tropical
gardens, or white sandy beaches, some with
private pools. Facilities include an infinity pool,
spa, fitness room, library, restaurant, wine cellar
and pool bar. Excellent watersports facilities and
island excursions. Learn to dive on Ao Prao beach.
Accommodation
All 40 luxuriously appointed villas have magnificent
views of either the lush tropical gardens, or white
sandy beaches. The villas are a spacious 100 sqm
and are stylishly furnished in natural materials. All
villas include a private terrace, private pool with
Jacuzzi (except the 10 garden villas), 24-hour
room service,
DVD stereo player
and butler service
to cater for your
every whim.
There is a choice
of Garden villas
(with or without a
private pool) or the
Beachfront pool
villas.
Activities and facilities
Watersports includes windsurfing, canoeing,
snorkelling or catamaran sailing. Island excursions
can be arranged and also deep-sea fishing trips
are on offer. Learn to dive at the dive centre at Ao
Prao beach. Hotel facilities include an infinity pool,
spa, fitness room, DVD library, babysitting, internet
corner and a library. The restaurant offers all-day
dining, serving a fine selection of International and
Thai cuisine and fine wines from the resort’s wine
cellar. The pool bar is located by the infinity pool
while the sunset bar is the perfect location for a
cocktail as the sun sets over the western beach.
Offer Receive up to 4 nights free. Offer dates vary.
Call for details.
Prices from £103 per person per night, including
breakfast daily.
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51INSPIRED BY ASIA THAILAND
KOH LANTA
Koh Lanta, located
to the south of Krabi,
has converted from
an 1980s backpacker
destination into one
of Thailand’s new
upmarket hotspots.
With its 25-mile
picturesque coastline
and close proximity to
Phuket and Krabi, it’s a
great alternative to the
other busier tropical
islands.
How to get there
There are regular flights from
Bangkok to Krabi. From
Krabi Airport you will be met
and transferred by shared,
air-conditioned mini-bus to
Baan Hua Hin Pier, a journey
time of 1 hour. During the
high season Nov - Apr you
will then travel by boat to
Pimalai - a 1 hour ride. In low
season an alternative crossing
may be required - call for
details. Round trip transfers
by van and scheduled shared
boat transfers are free from
Krabi Airport. Transfers are
available from Phuket Airport
at additional cost. Price on
request.
BANGKOK
Koh Lanta
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PIMALAI RESORT & SPA
The luxurious Pimalai Resort and Spa is built on
a hillside, amongst 100 acres of rainforest and
extends down to a superb 900 metre stretch of
pristine sandy beach. Set within the grounds are
121 elegantly appointed villas. Facing a secluded
bay Pimalai enjoys one of the finest settings for
a beach resort in Thailand. This hotel combines
all the right ingredients; subtle five star comforts,
natural beauty and far from the crowds.
Accommodation
All rooms feature a private balcony or terrace,
a polished teakwood floor, rattan curtains and
rich Thai fabric. Deluxe rooms offer garden
views. Bayfront Deluxe rooms are larger with an
additional living space, a larger balcony and partial
views of the beach and bay. Choice of Pool or
Beach Villas depending on whether you prefer to
be just steps from the sandy beach or high up in
the rainforest with tremendous views of the bay.
Pool and Beach Villas are offered as one, two or
three bedrooms, with all of the Pool Villas featuring
their own private pool.
Activities and facilities
Available free of charge are canoes, windsurf
boards, sailing boats and boogie boards. There
are no motorised watersports at Pimalai to keep
the bay peaceful. Enjoy regular boat trips to some
beautiful but deserted islands for snorkelling
and diving and even to the more distant Phi Phi
Islands. Elephant rides through the jungle are
available. Bicycles are free to use as are the tennis
courts and table tennis. Hotel facilities include two
infinity-edged swimming pools, a fitness centre,
a library with free internet access, a dive centre
(Nov - Apr) and a spa. Wonderful choice of four
restaurants including the spectacularly located
Seven Seas Restaurant with unparalleled sea
views.
Offer Free roundtrip transfers from Krabi Airport.
Prices from £69 per person per night, including
breakfast daily.
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52 inspiredbyasia.co.ukTHAILAND
KOH YAO NOI
Koh Yao Noi is a quite
unspoilt and largely
untouched island set in
lush tropical vegetation
with a wonderfully
remote feel. Located
in Phang Nga Bay, the
bay between Phuket
and Krabi, it is world
renowned for its unique
limestone formations
and pristine beaches.
How to get there
The best option to get to
Paradise @ Koh Yao is the
resort’s own transfer service.
You will be picked up at either
Phuket or Krabi Airport with
an air-conditioned vehicle, &
taken to Yacht Haven Marina,
Phuket or Tha Lane Pier,
Krabi. From there one of the
resort speedboats will bring
you directly to the resort pier.
Crossing time is an hour.
BANGKOK
Koh Yao
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PARADISE @ KOH YAO
Paradise @ Koh Yao is located on Koh Yao Noi
Island, a quiet tropical getaway in the Phang
Nga area between Phuket and Krabi. Well away
from the major tourist spots of Phuket & Krabi,
the resort is still less than one hour away by boat
transfer. The largely untouched island is covered
with lush tropical jungle and limestone cliffs; it is
fringed by beaches and reef, and surrounded by
numerous tiny islands with their own beaches.
Paradise @ Koh Yao commands spectacular views
over the awe inspiring, limestone backdrop of Phang
Nga bay. Set within its own bay at the top of this
remote island, there is no other accommodation
within a 20 minutes drive or boat ride.
Accommodation
The resort features 72 well-appointed studios &
villas designed for maximum connection with the
environment. All of the rooms are open to nature
while providing uncompromising comfort. Rooms
are available with king size, queen, or single beds.
Activities and facilities
The Seafood Terrace is an 80-seat restaurant
nestled between shady trees right on the beach
while Al Fresco is a 40-seat restaurant with a
wood fired pizza oven right on the beach front.
The Sundowner bar offers unrivalled views across
Phang Nga Bay. The Beach Club is located by
the pool and provides all day dining. The spa is
a fully-equipped outdoor spa. Enjoy Yoga in the
covered open air Yoga Sala on the beach. Nestled
between shady trees, a 350 square metre infinity-
edge salt water swimming pool sits right at the
beachfront providing a welcome refresher from a
swim at the resort beach. Resort library. Activities
include snorkelling, scuba-diving, kayaks, beach
volleyball, mountain bikes, rock climbing and
cooking classes.
Offer Receive up to 7 nights free. Offer dates vary.
Call for details.
Prices from £65 per person per night, including
breakfast daily.
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53INSPIRED BY ASIA THAILAND
KHANOM
Khanom offers several
bays and beaches facing
the Gulf of Thailand in an
area of unspoilt beauty.
This is one of Thailand’s
last pristine destinations;
ideal for those wanting to
get away from the hustle
and bustle and enjoy a
peaceful retreat on white
sandy beaches. Khanom
is known for its rare pink
dolphins. Locals here are
proud of this rare animal
species and wish to
protect its original idyllic
living environment on the
coastline of Khanom.
How to get there The nearest
airport is Surat Thani, just a 40
minute transfer. Alternatively
it is possible to arrive At Don
Sak Pier from Koh Samui and
transfer from there. For those
visiting Elephant Hills it is
possible to end your Jungle
Lake Safari with a transfer to
the Aava Resort & Spa.
When to go March to June
generally sees the driest
weather. September to
December is the wettest period.
BANGKOK
Khanom
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AAVA RESORT & SPA
Aava Resort & Spa sits on beautiful Nadan beach,
a 9km stretch of pristine golden sands and clear
blue water. A paradise where swaying coconut
palms, lush green landscape, limestone mountains
and virtually untouched beaches still remain in
their natural beauty.
Accommodation and facilities
Aava Resort and Spa consists of 28 unique
bungalows; Deluxe, Superior and Poolside as well
as a Family Villa that can accommodate a family
of 5. Aava Resort has created a fresh unique look
that is easily noticeable in the design and decor of
these rooms. Facilities include a traditional Thai
Spa, two quality restaurants, a pool bar and a
small range of shops.
Activities
Wednesdays Morning Market is held weekly in
Khanom. Aava Resort and Spa offers its guests
free excursion to this unique venue. In addition
activities includes watersports and fishing. For an
opportunity to see the rare Pink Dolphins a boat
excursion can be arranged locally. Your best bet
is an early morning departure, but there is no
guarantee of a sighting.
Offer Free roundtrip transfers from Surat Thani
Airport or from Don Sak Pier (from Koh Samui).
Minimum 5 night stays.
Prices from £41 per person per night, including
breakfast daily.
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57INSPIRED BY ASIA MALAYSIA
MALAYSIAMalaysia offers a wealth of variety that reflects its diversity of cultures. There is so
much to commend Malaysia. The climate is tropical, the beaches are perfect, the
rainforest scenery is impressive, and Kuala Lumpur offers great shopping, dining
and architecture. The wildlife of Borneo is amazing, and the people are friendly.
Getting there The National carrier, Malaysian Airlines flies direct from the UK to Malaysia. In addition there are several airlines offering in-direct flights to Kuala Lumpur via Dubai (Emirates), Singapore (Singapore Airlines) and Abu Dhabi (Etihad Airways) amongst others. The flying time is generally around 13 hours.
Guide to the country Start your Malaysia holiday in the capital, Kuala Lumpur. This vibrant city offers a contrast in architectural styles with the impressive Petronas Towers standing alongside colonial buildings. The beach resorts of Penang and Langkawi in the west are well-known, offering a good choice of hotels, set on sandy beaches. The east coast of the mainland includes Kuala Terengganu, a region that features picturesque villages where religion and culture are very much a part of everyday life. Malaysian Borneo is a must-see, with its beaches, mountains (Mt.Kinabalu is one of the highest mountains in SE Asia) but above all a wide range of nature, birds and wildlife. Here you can get up close to Orang-utans in Sabah. A great way to experience the country is on a private tour. This allows you to explore the lesser-known locations such as historic Malacca and the tea-growing, colonial hill towns and villages of the Cameron Highlands.
When to go Malaysia has a tropical climate and offers warm temperatures throughout the year, with an average monthly temperature ranging between 23°C and 32°C. There is a clear east-west split in the weather. The west coast islands of Penang, Langkawi and Pangkor are at their best weather-wise during December to April, with the east coast enjoying drier
weather from April to October. The rainy season for the west is April to October, while the east receives stormy monsoon weather during November and December. The best time to visit Borneo is March to October, with the wettest months being November to February. The capital, Kuala Lumpur remains warm year round but has less rainfall during June to August.
Important to note British passport holders don’t need a visa unless they are staying for more than 60 days and the passport has at least six months validity remaining. Malaysia is eight hours ahead of GMT. The currency is Malaysian Ringitt. Vaccinations are not normally required unless you are venturing deep into the jungles of Borneo. For full details of vaccination requirements contact your doctor.
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58 inspiredbyasia.co.ukMALAYSIA
KUALA LUMPUR
Travel Kuala Lumpur’s
International Airport is well
served by over 50 international
and domestic carriers. Located
in Sapang, 34 miles south of
Kuala Lumpur with a journey
time of around an hour, KLIA
is well connected to the city via
express trains, taxis and buses.
We can arrange for you to be
met on arrival at the airport and
private car transfer to your hotel
from £24 per person. Getting
around the city is easy; taxis
are a very reasonable option.
The LRT system has numerous
stations in the city providing a
frequent service.
Attractions No visitor should
miss a visit to the top of the
Kuala Lumpur Tower. This offers
unique views of the city and
helps with an early orientation.
Of course you can’t fail to
see the Petronas Twin Towers
dominating the skyline and a
visit to the shopping centre at
its base is worthwhile. The Batu
Caves provides an interesting
out-of-town trip to see this
massive limestone outcrop and
its cavernous interior, home to
Hindu deities. Further afi eld a
two-hour drive will take you to
historical Malacca, the oldest
trading port in Malaysia.
When to go Kuala Lumpur is
located close to the equator
and is therefore warm to hot
throughout the year with
temperatures around 30-32°C.
The highest rainfall occurs
during February through to May,
and September, October and
November.
A modern, exciting capital, and home
to the tallest twin-tower building in the
world, Kuala Lumpur retains the charm
of another era, evident in its domes,
mosques and Moorish architecture.
Broad modern highways and glamorous
shopping centres contrast with colonial
mansions and mosques.
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59INSPIRED BY ASIA MALAYSIA
KUALA LUMPUR Hotels
THE MAJESTIC HOTEL KUALA LUMPUR
VILLA SAMADHI
SHANGRI-LA HOTEL KUALA LUMPUR
TRADERS HOTEL KUALA LUMPUR
This city icon includes the original Hotel Majestic, a documented
national heritage site built in 1932. One of the great hotels of Kuala
Lumpur in its time, the refurbished neo-classical suites in the original
Majestic Wing are complemented by the Tower Wing’s contemporary
art-deco styled rooms. Facilities include two pools, gym, spa, orchid
conservatory, bespoke tailor, old-fashioned barber and reading room.
Choice of bars and restaurants.
Offer Complimentary fl owers and bottle of wine for honeymooners.
Prices from £53 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
Villa Samadhi is a boutique hotel located in the leafy embassy district,
just 10 minutes from the city centre. This Thai-styled temptress will
seduce with lantern-lit paths, a curvaceous pool and ultra-private rooms.
Facilities include a restaurant offering Malay and International cuisines
and a bar where complimentary cocktails & canapés between 6.30pm &
7.30pm can be enjoyed. There is a shuttle service to the city centre and
complimentary afternoon tea by the pool and a cognac at turndown.
Offer Receive a 10% discount when staying 5 nights or more.
Prices from £83 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
The Shangri-La Hotel sits amidst lush tropical gardens 5 minutes’ walk
from the Petronas Twin Towers and the city’s main shopping districts. All
guestrooms are elegantly appointed. Horizon Club rooms on fl oors 20
- 23 are available with a supplement and inclusive of club acess. Other
hotel facilities include an outdoor pool, a kids’ pool, sauna, steam room,
jacuzzi, fi tness centre, café, poolside bar and a choice of restaurants,
featuring some of Southeast Asia’s fi nest chefs.
Offer Receive 3 nights for the price of 2 in Suites. Call for details.
Prices from £69 per person per night, based on room only.
This contemporary, new generation hotel located in the heart of Kuala
Lumpur city centre, offers direct access to shopping and entertainment
hubs. All rooms are modern in design and include a choice of Deluxe
rooms with either a city view or Twin Towers view facing the imposing
Petronas Twin Towers. Facilities include two stylish restaurants, a cafe
and a rooftop open-air bar showing the perfect KL-by-night vista, a
relaxing rooftop swimming pool with sundeck, steam and sauna rooms.
Offer Free Club benefi ts 3 nights or more. Conditions apply.
Prices from £59 per person per night including breakfast daily.
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60 inspiredbyasia.co.ukMALAYSIA
THE BEST OF MALAYSIA IN STYLE 12 Day Private Tour
Price includes• 11 nights’ hotel accommodation as shown • Private air-conditioned transfers • Breakfast daily• Touring as shown
Day 1 Kuala Lumpur Airport to MalaccaYou will be met on arrival and transferred
to Malacca (2 hours). Stay 2 nights at The
Majestic Malacca including breakfast daily.
Located on the banks of the river, The
Majestic Malacca provides a glimpse into the
splendid saga of an extraordinary empire.
Day 2 Malacca Enjoy a 90-minute Historic
Walk tour with an English-speaking local
guide. The guide will explain the history of
Malacca during the walk, and show some
of the oldest shops, temples and buildings
around the Historical area. Departs at 10am or
5pm. Excluding Wednesdays.
Day 3 Malacca to Kuala Lumpur Transfer
to the capital (2 hours). Stay 2 nights at The
Majestic Hotel Kuala Lumpur which has
been recently restored. This colonial heritage
building, dating from 1932 is a city icon.
Day 4 Kuala Lumpur City Tour Enjoy a 3-4
hour morning or afternoon tour of KL’s sights.
Day 5 KL to the Cameron HighlandsA spectacular 3 hour drive takes you up to
the Cameron Highlands Resort. Located 1467
metres above sea level and overlooking the
golf course and close to the tea plantations.
This boutique hideaway promises all the
splendour, romance and nostalgia of Cameron
Highlands’ grand colonial heritage. Stay 2
nights.
Day 6 Cameron Highlands Enjoy a morning
guided tour of the tea plantations and a short
walk through a forest.
Day 7-12 Cameron Highlands to:EITHER Pangkor Laut Resort Head west
to Lumut (3 hours). From Lumut board a
speedboat for the short crossing to Pangkor
Laut Resort. Stay 5 nights in this privately
owned island of secluded bays and pristine
beaches (see page 68). On your fi nal day
return to KL Airport via the speedboat and a 3
hour and 45-minute private car transfer.
OR Tanjong Jara Resort Head east to the
beautiful beach resort of Tanjong Jara Resort
(page 69) just south of Dungun on Malaysia’s
east coast (5 hours). On your fi nal day a
transfer will be provided for a 1 hour journey
to Kuala Terengganu Airport.
From here Inspired by Asia can arrange your
onwards fl ights (not included).
Prices from £1299 per person, based on twin
share.
Experience the best of Malaysia
on this 12 day itinerary. Using
entirely the fi ve star hotels of the
renown YTL Hotels group, enjoy
accommodation of the highest
standard combined with private,
air-conditioned transfers. Enjoy
superb scenery and a range of
experiences, from the bustle of
Kuala Lumpur, to historic Malacca
and the hillside scenery of the
Cameron Highlands. Finally 5
nights to relax on a stunning beach
in either Pangkor Laut or on the
East Coast. Departs daily.
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61INSPIRED BY ASIA MALAYSIA
BEYOND KUALA LUMPUR
THE MAJESTIC MALACCA
CAMERON HIGHLANDS RESORT
Set on the banks of the Malacca River in a UNESCO World Heritage Site,
The Majestic Malacca, a 54-room luxurious boutique hotel, provides an
experience of another age. Its rooms evoke the city’s rich history where
Dutch, Portuguese and Peranakan Chinese styles merge in a cultural
crossroad. From the fine teakwood fittings to the intricate designs of the
original porcelain floor tiles, this classic hotel reflects Malacca’s unique
heritage providing all the comforts required by the discerning traveller.
Offer Early booking discount. Offer dates vary, call for details.
Prices from £58 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
The Cameron Highlands Resort is a colonial hideaway overlooking the
golf course and close to the tea plantations. Its leather couches, timber
beamed ceilings and crackling fireplaces in the library and bar promise
all the splendour of Cameron Highlands’ grand heritage. Spa Village
Cameron Highlands with treatments steeped in the restorative properties
of tea draws inspiration from age-old secrets of local ingredients, perfect
for those looking to escape and experience country-style living.
Offer Early booking discount. Offer dates vary, call for details.
Prices from £58 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
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3 DAY TAMAN NEGARANATIONAL PARK TOUR
Price includes• Chalet accommodation at Mutiara Taman Negara Resort for 2 nights• 2 breakfasts, 1 lunch and 2 dinners• Private car transfer roundtrip from Kuala Lumpur • Shared boat transfers roundtrip• Touring as shown
The first and oldest national park in Malaysia is filled to the brim
with exciting eco-tourism activities. Unspoilt and undisturbed, an
unforgettable experience awaits you.
Day 1 Kuala Lumpur to Kuala Taman Negara
Pick up from your Kuala Lumpur hotel, then a 3 hour drive to Kuala
Tembeling. From here you will take a boat journey for 2 hours to the
National Park. Stay 2 nights at the Mutiara Taman Negara Resort.
This hotel offers comfortable accommodation with either jungle or
river views. After dinner join a night jungle walk.
Day 2 Taman Negara
A full day in the Park. Enjoy a motorised canoe to Lake Berkoh, and
a walk along the Canopy Walkway; the longest canopy walk of its
kind in the world.
Day 3 Taman Negara to Kuala Lumpur Return to the city via the boat journey and private car transfer,
arriving back around 5pm.
Prices from £469 per person, based on twin share.
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62 inspiredbyasia.co.ukMALAYSIA
PENANG
Travel There are frequent
scheduled fl ights from Kuala
Lumpur to Penang. The airport
is located 10 miles south of the
capital, Georgetown, and 20
miles south of the main beach
resort area of Batu Ferringhi
with a journey time of around 50
minutes. We can arrange for you
to be met on arrival at Penang
Airport and transferred privately
to your accommodation. From
£14 per person.
Attractions The summit of
Penang Hill, at 720m offers an
interesting drive and breath-
taking views of the Island.
Penang is renowned for its
markets. Shop for bargains at
the night market in Batu
Ferringhi, or the fl ea markets
in Georgetown, the capital
and a lively place to visit in
the evenings. Take a pedalled
trishaw ride through the city’s
narrow streets and see the
largest collection of 18th and
19th century houses in SE Asia.
When to go Penang has
an equatorial climate with
temperatures ranging from a
low of 22°C to a high of 30°C
year round. The driest time is
January and February which
is also the busiest period for
visitors, with the wettest months
from September to November.
Note A Penang Government fee
of 3 Ringgits per room per night
is payable locally.
The Island of Penang, just off the
northwest coast of Malaysia, holds a
fascination for the sunseeker and historian
alike. While the white sandy beaches of
Batu Ferringhi are renowned, Penang is
actually the oldest British settlement in
Malaysia and visitors will delight in the
historic capital Georgetown, a UNESCO
World Heritage site. For a spectacular
view, take a trip up Penang Hill.
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PENANG Hotels
SHANGRI-LA’S RASA SAYANG RESORT & SPA
THE BLUE MANSION
GOLDEN SANDS RESORT PENANG
EASTERN & ORIENTAL HOTEL
Situated along Batu Feringgi Beach, the iconic Shangri-La’s Rasa Sayang
Resort and Spa sits within a 30-acre tropical landscaped garden. The
resort comprises 304 guestrooms and suites, most of which have been
extensively refurbished and expanded. Guests will enjoy a range of
facilities such as a Par-3 pitch and putt golf course, two swimming pools,
Adventure Zone for children, relaxing CHI, The Spa, and restaurants and
bars offering international and local cuisine.
Offer Receive a 20% discount for 5 night stays. Conditions apply.
Prices from £96 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
The Blue Mansion offers 18 beautiful rooms, each individually themed
and furnished with luxurious amenities. This historic property is located
in a Chinese style mansion within historic Georgetown’s UNESCO district.
Rooms are individually designed and air-conditioned and furnished with
style. Facilities include a library, a bar and garden. Allow 30 minutes
for a transfer from Penang International Airport. Guests on a self drive
itinerary have free parking.
Offer Receive a 10% discount when staying 7 nights or more.
Prices from £93 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
Located on Batu Ferringhi, Penang’s fi nest beach and set amidst tropical
gardens facing the sea and sandy beach, Golden Sands Resort is part of
the renowned Shangri-La Hotels and Resorts. The resort is conveniently
close to the night market. Rooms offer garden or sea views. Facilities
include an outdoor pool, a children’s pool, fi tness centre, a Par-3 pitch
and putt golf course and an Adventure Zone. Choice of four bars and
restaurants.
Offer Receive a 20% discount for 5 night stays. Conditions apply.
Prices from £61 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
The Eastern & Oriental Hotel is the embodiment of both a special time
and a special place. For well over a century ‘The E&O’ has stood as a
testament to the grand elegance of the British colonial era. Enjoying prime
sea frontage, this luxurious all-suite hotels offers classic elegance with
views of the gardens, the pool or out to sea. Distinctively designed rooms
are spacious and full of character. Facilities include a pool, gym, sauna,
restaurants and bars. Walking distance to the centre of Georgetown.
Offer Explore Penang with the complimentary shuttle service.
Prices from £95 per person per night including breakfast daily.
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64 inspiredbyasia.co.ukMALAYSIA
LANGKAWI
Travel There are regular fl ights
to Langkawi from Kuala Lumpur,
a fl ying time of an hour. The
airport is in the west of the
island, a 25 minute drive to the
main town of Kuah, but transfer
times vary greatly depending
on the location of your
accommodation. The Andaman
and The Datai hotels are located
20 miles north of the airport with
a transfer time of 40 minutes.
We can arrange for you to be
met on arrival and transferred
privately to your hotel from £11
per person.
Activities Take the cable car
to the summit of a mountain
at 700 metres to walk across
the sky bridge and enjoy
spectacular views. There are
also jungle treks to be taken in
the area. There is a very good
half day island-hopping cruise
that includes a visit to the
beautiful Lake of the Pregnant
Maiden.
When to go Langkawi is warm
all year round with temperatures
around 30°C, occasionally
dropping to 22°C. The hottest
month is usually February and
the coolest is October. The driest
and so most popular period for
visitors is from mid-November to
April. The rainy season is from
September to early November,
though the rainfall is mixed with
periods of sunshine.
Langkawi is an archipelago of 99 tropical
islands but with one island in particular that
plays host to a range of accommodation.
Located 20 miles off the north western
coast of Malaysia, Langkawi is a beautiful
but quiet island; ideal for relaxation but
with very little in the way of nightlife
compared to its neighbour, Penang.
Visitors will enjoy the miles of sandy
beaches, ancient rainforests and quaint
villages that Langkawi has to offer.
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65INSPIRED BY ASIA MALAYSIA
LANGKAWI Hotels
The Datai Langkawi is an outstanding hotel set in an ancient rainforest above a private sandy beach
which ranks among National Geographic’s Top 10 Beaches. An ideal choice for honeymooners or couples
wanting an idyllic break in a beautiful setting. Featuring 54 Deluxe and Premium rooms, 16 suites, 40
Superior and Pool villas and 14 villas, all with verandahs which look out to the landscape. Facilities include
2 pools, a golf course, spa, gym, water sports, tennis, library, bar and a choice of 4 restaurants.
Offer Receive up to 3 nights free. Offer dates vary. Call for details.
Prices from £193 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
The Danna Langkawi is surrounded by a sandy beach, marina and lush tropical hills. This 5-star luxury
hotel echoes colonial era architecture in a Mediterranean ambience and is located at Telaga Harbour on
the west side of Langkawi, just a 15 minute drive from the airport. The spacious 125 rooms and suites
include a balcony and views of the adjacent marina, seaviews, and rainforest. Facilities include a choice
of bars and restaurants, the largest infi nity pool on the island, cafe, fi tness centre, kids’ club and spa.
Offer Receive up to 2 nights free. Offer dates vary, call for details.
Prices from £145 per person per night including breakfast daily.
THE DATAILANGKAWIHHHHH
THE DANNALANGKAWIHHHHH
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66 inspiredbyasia.co.ukMALAYSIA
LANGKAWI Hotels
Located on a magnifi cent sweep of private sandy beach, The Andaman Langkawi is a tropical paradise
with spectacular views of ancient virgin rainforests and mountains beyond. Deluxe rooms offer a choice of
rainforest or sea views (Luxury Sea View room pictured). Facilities include a large freeform swimming pool,
Spa, kids’ club and gym. Beachfront bar and a choice of four restaurants. Activities include non-motorised
water sports and guided nature walks. Just minutes away from an outstanding new golf course.
Offer Receive up to 2 nights free. Dates vary, call for details.
Prices from £96 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
Casa del Mar is a boutique hotel on beautiful Pantai Cenang beach, just a 10-minute drive from the
airport and within walking distance to local cafes, shops and restaurants. From its Mediterranean
architecture to its relaxed and comfortable interior, Casa del Mar is a perfect oasis for couples looking
for a private and peaceful retreat. All rooms are sea-facing with fl oor-to-ceiling sliding picture windows.
Facilities include a pool, a pool bar, a spa, a wine bar and restaurant. No children under 12 at this resort.
Offer Receive a 5% discount when staying 14 nights. Year round.
Prices from £95 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
THE ANDAMANLANGKAWIHHHHH
CASA DEL MARHHHH
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LANGKAWI Hotels
The Meritus Pelangi Beach Resort is located along the beautiful and scenic stretch of the famous Cenang
white sandy beach. The breathtaking view begins the minute you step into the lobby and continues
throughout the 31 acres of award-winning landscaped garden. Raised on stilts, all guest rooms feature
balconies, with either garden, pool or sea views. Facilities include two outdoor swimming pools, a fi tness
centre, a spa, tennis, squash, a kids’ club and two bars and choice of three restaurants.
Offer Receive up to 4 nights free. Offer dates vary, call for details.
Prices from £94 per person per night, based on room only.
Located on one of the world’s best beaches, the Tanjung Rhu Resort offers tranquillity and romance
in Northern Langkawi. With absolute beachfront facing a two-kilometre private beach guests will enjoy
stunning views towards limestone peaks rising out of the ocean. The 136 rooms offer a choice of garden
or sea views. Facilities include a choice of restaurants and bars, 3 pools, a spa, fi tness centre, non-
motorised watersports and tennis. Room only or all inclusive options at this resort.
Offer Receive a 30% discount for booking in advance. Call for details.
Prices from £160 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
MERITUS PELANGI BEACHRESORT & SPA
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TANJUNG RHURESORTHHHHH
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68 inspiredbyasia.co.ukMALAYSIA
PANGKOR LAUT
Pangkor Laut is an
island located off
the coast of Lumut,
on the west side of
Peninsular Malaysia
and offers some of the
world’s finest beaches.
The internationally
acclaimed Pangkor
Laut Resort occupies
an entire island and
pampers like no other.
How to get there
Lumut is the gateway to
Pangkor - a 4 hour drive from
Kuala Lumpur airport. From
Lumut there is a scheduled
speedboat service to Pangkor
Laut (15-minute crossing,
four times a day). Pangkor
Laut Resort also offers a
24-hour speedboat service,
price on request. We can
arrange for you to be met at
KL Airport (or collected from
KL accommodation) and
privately transferred by car
to Marina Island Pangkor in
Lumut, to meet the pre-
booked scheduled speedboat
transfer.
KUALA LUMPUR
Pangkor
Penang
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PANGKOR LAUT RESORT
Pangkor Laut is a privately owned island of
secluded bays and pristine beaches located three
miles off the west coast of Malaysia. Situated on
this exotic island is the award-winning Pangkor
Laut Resort which features a range of traditional
villas and suites. Nearby Emerald Bay, the
resort’s private beach has often been cited as
one of the most beautiful beaches in the world.
With no other resorts on the island, guests of the
exclusive Pangkor Laut Resort have the island to
themselves.
Accommodation
The signature Sea villas stand elegantly on stilts
over the sea. Each private villa is airy and spacious
and linked by a wooden walkway. Garden and Hill
villas offer superb views of the rainforest. Beach
villas are set in the gardens with views of the sea.
Spa villas are raised on stilts over the sea but have
the benefit of direct access to the Spa Village. All
rooms include a huge bathtub and shower, and a
balcony with deckchairs.
Activities and facilities
Accompany the resort’s resident naturalist on a
guided walk through the rainforest. Choose to
explore the island on a kayak or chase the wind
on water-skis. Enjoy a sunset cruise on the resort’s
stylish teakwood boat. Guests can play golf at
the Damai Laut Golf and Country Club located
on the mainland. Adventurous fishing trips and
island excursions are available. For more peaceful
activities there is Tai Chi, Yoga and cooking
classes. Resort facilities include two swimming
pools (one only for spa guests) a jet pool and
cold dip, gymnasium, tennis, squash and spa
treatments at Spa Village. This resort also offers
many dining opportunities with a wide range of
restaurants offering cuisine from around the world
as well as private dining experiences at several
stunning locations.
Offer Receive 5 nights for the price of 4. Offer
dates vary. Call for details.
Prices from £103 per person per night, including
breakfast daily.
MALAYSIA
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69INSPIRED BY ASIA MALAYSIA
EAST COAST MALAYSIA
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TANJONG JARA RESORT
Set on the East Coast of Peninsular Malaysia,
Tanjong Jara Resort is a sanctuary of luxury
and well-being steeped in age-old Malay
traditions. The Resort’s elegantly crafted
wooden buildings rest on a 17-hectare site
facing the South China Sea. Designed to
reflect the grandeur of 17th century Malay
palaces, this 99-room resort offers an
authentic taste of the region’s spirit. The
Resort is located between Kuala Terengganu
in the North and Kuantan in the South. The
riverine town of Dungun lies west of Tanjong
Jara and is eight kms away.
Accommodation
Bumbung and Serambi rooms are situated
within double storey units overlooking the
tropical gardens and are constructed from
warm timber in traditional Malay style.
Bumbung rooms occupy the upper floor, while
Serambi rooms (pictured, above) include a
partially covered verandah and are located on
the ground floor. Both these room categories
also offer sea view upgrades. The single storey,
semi-detached Anjung rooms are beach
cottages offering sea views.
Facilities and activities
Tanjong Jara Resort includes two pools, tennis,
bike hire, river cruises, cooking classes, an
award-winning Spa Village, two restaurants,
bars and a library. Diving and snorkelling
excursions are available from March to
October.
Offer Receive 5 nights for the price of 4. Offer
dates vary. Call for details.
Prices from £78 per person per night,
including breakfast daily.
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70 inspiredbyasia.co.ukMALAYSIA
BORNEO
Travel There are no direct
fl ights to Kota Kinabalu from
the UK, but the airport is well
served with scheduled fl ights
via Asian hubs, such as Kuala
Lumpur and Singapore. Flying
time from Kuala Lumpur is 2½
hours. The airport is fi ve miles
from Kota Kinabalu. We can
arrange for you to be met on
arrival and privately transferred
to your accommodation.
Prices vary according to the
distance from the airport to the
accommodation. Ask us for
details.
Activities Most visitors will want
to see Borneo’s icon, the orang-
utan. This can be done with a
day trip to the Sepilok Orang-
Utan Centre, at Sandakan, or
a stay at Shangri-La’s Rasa Ria
which has its own orang-utan
sanctuary. Day trips can be
made to visit Mt.Kinabalu, and
for the adventurous a 3 day
trek to the very summit can be
arranged (advance pre-booking
essential). The Danum Valley
is set amidst a vast tropical
rainforest with great opportunity
to see orang utan and monkeys.
When to go Borneo is at its best
during March to October. The
rainy season is usually from
November through to February,
but during this time you can
expect sunshine amidst the
downpours. Expect hot and
humid weather all year round.
Divided from Peninsular Malaysia by the
South China Sea is the island of Borneo.
Sabah is one of two Malaysian states on
the island and is located on the north-east
coast. Its capital, Kota Kinabalu serves as
the gateway to the attractions of Borneo,
including the orang-utan and the country’s
highest mountain, Mt. Kinabalu which, at
4095 metres, dominates the surrounding
jungle-covered hills.
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BORNEO Hotels
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SHANGRI-LA’S RASA RIA RESORT & SPA
The Shangri-La’s Rasa Ria Resort & Spa faces
a 3-kilometre long sweep of pristine, white
sandy beach, backed by forested hills. Choose
from the Garden Wing or more luxurious
Ocean Wing for your accommodation.
Uniquely this resort includes a 64-acre
conservation nature reserve where guests can
view the twice daily feeding of Orang Utan.
Accommodation
The recently refurbished Garden Wing features
rooms with forest, garden or sea views and a
private balcony. As a unique new wing, the
Ocean Wing offers the choicest hospitality
experience for discerning travellers who desire
privacy and the finest in luxury living. All 173
opulently furnished rooms face the sunny
wind-swept seashore. Each 90-square-metre
Premier Room (pictured left) features a private
oversized outdoor bathtub and large daybed
for the ultimate in relaxation.
Facilities and activities
Facilities include a pool for each wing (the pool
for the Ocean Wing is exclusively for Ocean
Wing guests), an 18-hole golf course, spa,
fitness centre, tennis, watersports and a wide
range of bars and restaurants.
The Rasa Ria Nature Reserve
The Rasa Ria Nature Reserve was established
by Shangri-La’s Rasa Ria Resort & Spa,
Kota Kinabalu in collaboration with the State
Wildlife Department of Sabah. This protected
ecological space aims to facilitate rehabilitation
programmes for endangered species of
animals as well as those endemic in Sabah.
The Rasa Ria Nature Reserve provides a home
until they are ready to be rehabilitated into
their natural habitat. There are two feedings
per day and for a small fee (paid locally)
guests can attend. A unique chance to get
close to the Orang Utan as they swing in to the
feeding platforms. Reservations can be made
at the hotel.
Offer Receive up to 2 nights free. Offer dates
vary, call for details.
Prices from £70 per person per night, based on
room only.
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BORNEO Hotels
Located just 15 minutes off the coast of Kota Kinabalu, the Gaya Island Resort is situated on Pulau Gaya,
an island set in a natural marine conservation area. The resort is fringed by a sandy beach, verdant jungle,
surrounded by coral reefs and enjoys views toward majestic Mt. Kinabalu. Accommodation is spread
throughout lush rainforest and features 120 hillside villas and a two-bedroom suite. Facilities include a
remarkable spa set in a mangrove, a pool, bar and restaurants.
Offer Receive 5 nights for the price of 4. Dates vary. Call for details.
Prices from £102 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
Bunga Raya Island Resort is a luxurious jewel set on a coral reef island just off the coast of Borneo
and a 30 minute car and boat journey from Kota Kinabalu. A secluded island hideaway of 47 timbered
villas, it is framed by white sand beach and virgin jungle. Hillside villas reflect the simplicity of the
Borneo architectural style. A hilltop spa blends the finest Traditional Asian and Western treatments using
restorative powers of indigenous plants and oils. Free boat to sister hotel, Gayana Eco Resort.
Offer Receive 7 nights for the price of 6. Offer dates vary. Call for details.
Prices from £155 per person per night, including breakfast and boat transfers.
GAYA ISLAND RESORTHHHHH
BUNGA RAYA ISLAND RESORT
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BORNEO Hotels
The Borneo Rainforest Lodge is nestled in a magnificent setting alongside the Danum River flowing
through a rainforest that is home to a vast array of undisturbed flora and fauna. The 3 Premium Villas
and 28 individual chalets include a fan and en-suite bathroom. Experience the 27 metre high canopy
walkway and the scenery from the viewing platform overlooking the river. There are several trails around
the Lodge. Or just relax on the verandah. 2 Hour transfer from Lahad Datu Airport.
Prices from £695 per person for a 3 day package including 2 nights accommodation, all meals, transfers
from Lahad Datu Airport and activities.
Shangri-La’s Tanjung Aru Resort & Spa is located in the capital; Kota Kinabalu. This award winning
492 room seaside resort is just 10 minutes from the airport, city, coral islands and is surrounded by 25
acres of lush gardens. The Kinabalu Wing sea-view rooms offer views of the South China Sea and Mount
Kinabalu while all rooms in the Tanjung Wing rooms face the sea. Facilities include a pool, a kids water
play area and club, tennis, nine-hole pitch and putt golf, a leisure centre, health club and spa.
Offer Receive up to 2 nights free. Offer dates vary, call for details.
Prices from £70 per person per night, based on room only.
BORNEO RAINFORESTLODGEHHHH
SHANGRI-LA’STANJUNG ARURESORT & SPA
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74 inspiredbyasia.co.ukMALAYSIA
BORNEO Small Group Tours
3 DAY ORANG UTAN AND WILDLIFE TOUR
Price includes• Return flights from Kota Kinabalu• Hotel transfers • 1 night Abai Jungle Lodge• 1 night Kinabatangan Riverside Lodge• 2 breakfasts, 3 lunches and 2 dinners• Touring as shown• English-speaking guide• Air-conditioned vehicles
Combine a visit to the Sepilok Orang Utan Rehabilitation Centre with 2
nights in spectacular jungle and river scenery in search of wildlife.
Day 1 Kota Kinabalu to Sandakan Early morning transfer from your
hotel to the airport then a short flight to Sandakan. Short drive to the
Sepilok Orang Utan Rehabilitation Centre. Wtiness the feeding of Orang
Utan at the feeding platform. After lunch enjoy a one hour boat ride
through spectacular scenery. Check in to the Abai Jungle Lodge for a 1
night stay. In the late afternoon and sunset cruise in search of wildlife.
Return to the Lodge for dinner.
Day 2 River Cruise An early morning river trip to Pitas Lake to observe
wildlife. Join in a tree planting project with the locals before lunch. Then
cruise to Sukau Village in search of primates especially the Endemic
Proboscis Monkeys and other wildlife. Check-in to the Kinabatangan
Riverside Lodge for 1 night.
Day 3 Sandakan to Kota Kinabalu Return to Kota Kinabalu via
Sandakan. Then, if required, a transfer to your hotel.
Prices from £520 per person, based on twin share.
3 DAY DANUM VALLEY TOUR
Price includes• Return flights from Kota Kinabalu• Hotel transfers• 2 nights at Borneo Rainforest Lodge • 2 breakfasts, 3 lunches and 2 dinners• Touring as shown• English-speaking guide• Air-conditioned vehicles
Enjoy a three day small group tour to the spectacular Danum Valley
one of the richest conservation areas in the world with over 200
species of tree per hectare. A complex ecosystem, the forest is a
home to many endangered wildlife.
Day 1 Kota Kinabalu to the Danum Valley Transfer from your
hotel to Kota Kinabalu Airport for a short flight to Lahad Datu. Drive
for 80km through selectively logged forest, cocoa and soft-wood
plantations before arriving at the Borneo Rainforest Lodge, located
beside the Danum River (see page 73). The area is home to the
full range of Sabah’s lowland fauna, including the rare Sumatran
Rhinoceros, Elephants, Clouded Leopards, and Orang Utans. In the
afternoon an introduction to the forest through nature trails to the
tree top Canopy Walkway. At night, and if weather permits, one can
go spotlighting to view some nocturnal animals.
Day 2 Danum Valley After breakfast, spend the day exploring the
forest for birds and mammals, visiting an escarpment with ancient
burial coffins. Trek to a waterfall for a dip in refreshing rock pools.
In the afternoon, jungle trek or go “tubing” down the Danum River.
Day 3 Danum Valley to Kota Kinabalu Morning at leisure before
your return journey to Kota Kinabalu.
Prices from £839 per person, based on twin share.
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BORNEO Small Group Tours
5 DAY SUKAU & DANUM VALLEY TOUR
Price includes• Return flights from Kota Kinabalu• Hotel transfers • 2 nights Kinabatangan Riverside Lodge• 2 nights Borneo Rainforest Lodge• 4 breakfasts, 5 lunches and 4 dinners• Touring as shown• English-speaking guide• Air-conditioned vehicles
Day 1 Kota Kinabalu to Sandakan Early morning transfer from your
hotel to Kota Kinabalu Airport. Short flight to Sandakan. Drive for
approximately 30 minutes to Sepilok Orang Utan Rehabilitation Centre.
At this Centre, observe man’s closest relative “the Orang Utan” being
rehabilitated to become wild in their natural habitat and experience
a walk in the Tropical Lowland Dipterocarp Forest of Borneo. Witness
the feeding of Orang Utan at the feeding platform and proceed to
the Orang Utan Nursery. Later, continue to the Bornean Sun Bear
Conservation Centre. After lunch in the Sepilok area enjoy a one hour
boat cruise through spectacular scenery. This is a wonderful journey
of discovery which starts from the waters of the Sulu Sea of Sandakan
town through magnificent scenery of the Mangrove Forest. After lunch,
cruise up river to Sukau village in search of primates especially the
Endemic Proboscis Monkeys, birds and other wildlife. Arrive Sukau,
check in at Kinabatangan Riverside Lodge. Late afternoon, river cruise
to Menanggul River, a small tributary of the Kinabatangan. Return to the
lodge for dinner.
Day 2 Wildlife river cruises Wake up by the calls of gibbons and
hornbills. Early morning, take a river trip to the Ox-Bow Lake to observe
wildlife and experience the early morning river ambience of the longest
river in Sabah. Return to the lodge for breakfast and then time at leisure.
After lunch an afternoon river cruise to search for more wildlife. Dinner
and overnight at Kinabatangan Riverside Lodge.
Day 3 Travel to the Danum Valley Early morning, transfer overland to
Lahad Datu. Drive 50 miles through selectively logged forest, cocoa and
softwood plantations before arriving at the Borneo Rainforest Lodge
(see page 73) beside the Danum River on the edge of 438 sq km of
undisturbed lowland rainforest. The Lodge is home to the full range
of Sabah’s lowland fauna, including the rare Sumatran Rhinoceros,
Elephants, Clouded Leopards, and Orang Utans. Some 275 species of
birds have been recorded in the area. Explore nature trail and nearby
river. In the evening a slide show and (if weather permits) spotlighting to
view some nocturnal animals. Overnight at Borneo Rainforest Lodge.
Day 4 The Danum Valley Morning birdwalk before breakfast. Spend the
whole day exploring the forest for birds and mammals, leading up to
an escarpment with ancient burial coffins. Trek to a waterfall and dip in
refreshing rock pools. Lunch at the lodge. In the afternoon, jungle walk
through trails leading to canopy walkway. Overnight at Borneo Rainforest
Lodge.
Day 5 Danum Valley to Kota Kinabalu Morning at leisure before your
return journey to Kota Kinabalu.
Prices from £1349 per person, based on twin share.
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BALIBali, the ‘Island of the Gods’, is one of 17,000 islands that make up Indonesia. Ly-
ing approximately 10° south of the Equator, it is a country with a rich cultural tradi-
tion offering a myriad of delights for the visitor: golden beaches, lush green
rice terraces, unique arts and crafts, and a friendly and hospitable people.
Getting there There are flights into Bali’s Denpasar Airport from Singapore, Bangkok, Hong Kong, Kuala Lumpur and Tokyo. There are no direct flights from the UK, so most UK visitors combine a Bali stay with a city break in one of the above transit points. Flying time is approximately 15 hours but varies according to the transit city.
Guide to the country The Indonesia island of Bali offers some superb beaches. Nusa Dua is Bali’s prime tourist resort and has been landscaped into beautiful gardens providing the setting for a range of beachfront upmarket hotels. Sanur Beach is wide and sandy. Seminyak is located close to the busy resort of Kuta, but is quiet and sophisticated and offers a good choice of restaurants. Jimbaran is much quieter but with a safe swimming beach and chic restaurants. Ubud, 20 miles inland from Bali Airport, is 600m above sea level. A collection of traditional villages, set in the lush, green countryside, Ubud offers superb hill and valley views and an interesting alternative to the beaches and is renowned as a centre for arts and crafts. The rest of the island offers spectacular scenery and is much less developed for tourism, rewarding visitors with a more authentic Balinese experience. Situated 34 miles to the east of Bali, lies the island of Lombok, a 25-minute flight. Though relatively new to tourism, Lombok is fast emerging as one of Indonesia’s best kept secrets.
When to go With its proximity to the Equator, Bali is hot and generally sunny all year round, with temperatures averaging between the high 20°C and low 30°C. The dry season is May to September, with the monsoon season from October to April, when short, sharp downpours mix with sunshine. February and March can be particularly hot and humid. May, June and July are usually considered to be the best months for a holiday in Bali. Bear in mind that evenings and nights can be cool up in the hills of Ubud.
Important to note A visa is not required for British Passport holders staying in Indonesia for less than 30 days. Please note your passport must have at least six months validity
remaining. Bali is eight hours ahead of GMT. The currency is Indonesian Rupiah, but you are advised to bring US Dollars with you. Vaccinations are not essential for visitors to Bali, Lombok or the Gili Islands but contact your Doctor for full details. Nyepi Day (dates vary each year) is silence day – a very important ritual for the Balinese. Note that on this day travel is not permited so it is best to avoid arriving, or departing Bali on this day.
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BALI Hotels
The award-winning AYANA Resort and Spa is located on 90 hectares of cliff-top land perched above
Jimbaran Bay. Majestic sunsets and ocean-front views are complemented by a white-sand beach and
shared facilities as Bali’s only integrated resort with RIMBA Jimbaran Bali including full access to all dining
and recreation at both AYANA and RIMBA and complimentary resort shuttle. There are 15 restaurants and
bars including the famous Rock Bar; 11 swimming pools; a top class spa, golf-putting and fitness centre.
Offer Complimentary transportation service. Call for details.
Prices from £114 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
Spa Village Resort Tembok, Bali is a 31-room resort located in the beautiful village of Tembok on the
pristine northern part of the island. This is a resort for those seeking a sanctuary away from the pressures
of the world. Choose from a range of experiences; massage therapy and treatments, creative stimulation
or a range of exercises, and all in a landscape of natural beauty. Spa, pool, gym, yoga, and an open
restaurant with stunning sea views. Excursions include diving and snorkelling. Kamar room pictured.
Offer Receive 7 nights for the price of 6. Offer dates vary, call for details.
Prices from £102 per person per night including 3 meals per day and a daily spa treatment.
AYANA RESORT & SPAHHHHH
SPA VILLAGE RESORTTEMBOK, BALI
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BALI Hotels
The Puri Santrian Beach Resort and Spa is situated along the coast of upscale Sanur on the tranquil
south-eastern side of the island. Sanur offers a range of bars and restaurants close to the hotel. This family
owned and operated hotel offers a choice of room types; Superior, for those who wish to be close to the
water and Bungalows, traditional Balinese style and the luxurious Santrian Club Wing with its own pool
and stylish rooms (breakfast included). Facilities include a pool, spa, watersports, bar and two restaurants.
Offer Receive up to 3 nights free. Dates vary, call for details.
Prices from £52 per person per night, based on room only.
The Bali Pavilions are 23 private villas, most with a private pool, located in Sanur, close to a lagoon that
is fringed by an extensive reef, and bordered on the other side by a long white beach (a few minutes
walk). Each villa has a private entrance, private patio and sundeck area and are surrounded by tropical
gardens. The two bedroom villa has a full kitchen and is ideal for families. Facilities include a pool, spa
and restaurant. A short walk to Sanur offers a good choice of bars, cafés and restaurants.
Offer Receive 4 nights for the price of 3. Offer dates vary, call for details.
Prices from £76 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
PURI SANTRIAN BEACHRESORT & SPA
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BALI PAVILIONSHHHHH
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BALI Hotels
Cocooned along a pristine beach on Bali’s southwest coast, Alila Seminyak is a stunning new resort that
stands on the last remaining undeveloped beachfront site in Seminyak. The close proximity of the resort to
the centre of Seminyak is an undeniable attraction, a few minutes’ stroll from the resort brings you to the
fashionable streets of the town that buzz with an air of laidback sophistication. 240 chic rooms and suites.
Facilities include a choice of restaurants and bars, outdoor pools, gym, spa and watersports.
Offer Receive a 10% discount when booking in advance.
Prices from £95 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
The award-winning chic Samaya Seminyak features 23 Pool Villas, and 7 Royal Pavilion Villas, set on the
beachside part of the property alongside the famous Seminyak Beach. The 22 Royal Courtyard Villas are
in a peaceful village courtyard setting, favoured by many, as they are larger with quaint tropical gardens
and a good size lap pool, and located just a few minutes away by golf buggy ride across the street.
Facilities include a pool, spa, restaurant, bar, gym and a daily shuttle bus to nearby Seminyak.
Offer Receive 7 nights for the price of 6. One Bedroom Villa. Dates vary.
Prices from £205 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
ALILA SEMINYAK BALIHHHHH
THE SAMAYASEMINYAK BALI
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BALI Hotels
The Conrad Bali hotel is only 10 kilometres from the International Airport and is adjacent to the Nusa Dua
resort area. Nestled in 6.8 acres of secluded tropical gardens with cascading waterfalls and a pristine 350
metre beach the Conrad features 360 guestrooms and suites overlooking the ocean, lagoons, resort or
gardens. Facilities include a 33-metre pool, jogging track with landscaped gardens, floodlit tennis courts,
kids club, fitness club and spa. Facilities include three restaurants, a cafe and bar.
Offer Receive up to 4 nights free. Offer dates vary, call for details.
Prices from £92 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
After the recent multi-million dollar refurbishment, Nusa Dua Beach Hotel & Spa now boasts an
extensive range of rejuvenated rooms and facilities while retaining the Balinese heritage with a new feel.
Nestled within over 23 acres of sculptured gardens, the resort, with its 382 guestrooms and suites offers
stunning views of tropical gardens, pool or the ocean. The resort facilities include three pools, kid’s club,
spa, fitness centre, water sports and choice of five restaurants and four bars
Offer For stays of 7 nights or more receive one free massage and dinner per person. Conditions apply.
Prices from £64 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
CONRAD BALIRESORT & SPA
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NUSA DUABEACH HOTEL & SPA
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UBUD Hotels
The Uma By Como is perfectly located on the fringe of Ubud, overlooking the Tjampuhan Valley, just a
short drive to the centre of Ubud. This is a stylish hotel and ideal for guests wanting to be able to walk to
bars and restaurants, but still be in a peaceful retreat. Terrace rooms offer garden views while the Garden
rooms are spacious and include a private courtyard. Facilities include a pool, 2 restaurants, a bar, a gym
and spa.
Offer Receive 4 nights for the price of 3. Offer dates vary. Call for details.
Prices from £77 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
The Alila Ubud is a tranquil and secluded hillside retreat high on the edge of the rich green Ayung River
valley in Bali’s central foothills. The resort is just minutes from Ubud. Blending contemporary design and
traditional Balinese architecture, the secluded courtyards, spacious terraces and private gardens create
an intimate feeling. The 56 rooms offer panoramic views of the Ayung River and surrounding volcanoes.
Facilities include a spectacular pool, a spa, bicycle hire, library, bar and restaurant.
Offer Receive 4 nights for the price of 3 nights. Offer dates vary, call for details.
Prices from £78 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
UMA BY COMOHHHHH
ALILA UBUDHHHHH
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UBUD Hotels
Hanging Gardens Ubud is set in 3.2 hectares of stunning jungle landscape on an almost 45 degree
incline, located 20 minutes north of Ubud. This enchanting five star boutique resort, designed in complete
harmony with nature, has 44 private individual villas and suites with thatched roofs, each enhanced by its
own luxurious granite infinity pool, rippling into the jungle below. Hanging Gardens Ubud offers supreme
luxury and ultimate privacy combined with five star service, set in the abundant and breathtaking Ubud
countryside.
Offer Receive 5 nights for the price of 4. Offer dates vary, call for details.
Prices from £260 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
Set on a hillside in Ubud, the Komaneka at Bisma features stunning river views and beyond to rice fields
and plantations. Sit back and relax on your private balcony and enjoy the stunning natural scenery. The
resort facilities include two impressive swimming pools, a spa, fine dining restaurant offering Indonesian
specialities, library and fitness centre. Great accommodation choices with Suites, 1 and 2 bedroom Pool
Villas and Family Pool Villas. This property is a 19-mile drive from Bali Airport.
Offer Complimentary daily afternoon tea with cakes.
Prices from £114 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
HANGING GARDENS UBUD
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KOMANEKAAT BISMAHHHHH
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THE BEST OF BALI 6 Day Private Tour
Price includes• 5 nights hotel accommodation • Breakfast daily, 3 lunches and 1 dinner • Air-conditioned vehicle • English-speaking guide
Day 1 Arrival morning flight to Bali Drive to
West Bali via Bedugul a mountain resort with
its lush tropical vegetation, with hair pin road
crossing down the hill of Gitgit. Lunch will be
provided enroute. Accommodation: Mimpi
Resort in a Patio Room
Day 2 West Bali to North Bali Snorkeling
at Menjangan Island. The boundaries of
the national park extend across the bay
and include this small, unpopulated island
and its coral reefs, said to have some of
the finest diving in the archipelago. In the
afternoon depart to Lovina (North Bali).
Accommodation: Puri Bagus Lovina in a
Superior Garden View room.
Day 3 North Bali to East Bali Early morning
Dolphin tour ( local boat ). Then a visit to
Kintamani, a village located on the rim of Mt
Batur Volcano. Enjoy your Lunch at Kintamani
Restaurant overlooking the crater and lake
Batur. In the afternoon visit Besakih, the
biggest temple in Bali, then drive via Putung
village with its beautiful scenery of terraced
rice fields. Accommodation: Puri Bagus
Candidasa in a Superior Garden View room.
Day 4 East Bali to Ubud Morning at leisure.
After Lunch a scenic two-hour drive to Ubud.
On the way, explore the east of Bali by visiting
Tenganan Village, Goa Lawah stopping at
Klungkung to see the Royal Court of Justice
‘Kerta Gosa’. Accommodation: Wapa di Ume
in a Lanai Rice Terrace room for 2 nights.
Day 5 Ubud Pick up from your hotel in Ubud
for a morning adventure cycling Mount
Batur. Break away from the main roads and
discover hidden Bali along the paths and trails
leading down from the volcanic Mount Batur.
Beginning with morning tea on the slopes
of this still active volcano, the tour takes you
down through sleepy villages, past ancient
temples and along leafy lanes through the
rainforest that graces the mountain slopes.
Stopping at villages to experience traditional
Bali life and concludes with lunch in the town
of Ubud. An evening with the elephants. On
arrival at the park you can interact and hand
feed the elephants while enjoying the exotic
botanical gardens. Next it’s off to the jungle on
your elephant chauffeur with a Safari Under
the Stars before returning for a delicious 4
course dinner in a Palm Grove dining area.
Day 6 Depart Bali Morning at leisure before
your transfer to the airport. Or we can arrange
further hotel accommodation to extend your
stay.
Prices from £799 per person, based on twin
share.
Want to discover the real Bali?
This 6 day private tour will take
you out into the lush, tropical
countryside of terraced rice
fields, to villages renowned for
their arts and crafts, to Hindu
temples and local markets.
Witness the spectacular
mountain scenery, snorkel off
deserted beaches and meet
the local people as they go
about their daily lives. This is
an adventurous tour but with
comfortable accommodation
throughout. Departs daily.
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LOMBOK and GILI ISLANDS Hotels
The Hotel Villa Ombak, the first international hotel on the magical island of Gili Trawangan, features the
traditional building style of Lombok, and its neighbouring islands, to blend harmoniously with the island’s
landscape. Set on a beautiful sandy beach. Accommodation ranges from budget hotel rooms to deluxe
family bungalows. Facilities include a swimming pool, spa, diving academy, watersports, restaurant, cafe
and choice of bars. Excursions to nearby islands including Lombok.
Offer Receive a 10% discount when staying 5 nights or more.
Prices from £49 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
HOTEL VILLA OMBAKHHHH
Ideally located on Senggigi Beach, on the lush western coast of Lombok, within walking distance of
the town’s shops, restaurants and bars. Polished timbers, warm inviting textiles, and cosy furnishings
together with an idyllic beach make this a popular place to stay. Some rooms with balcony or private
terrace offering guests the chance to enjoy a fabulous Senggigi sunset. Facilities include a pool, spa,
health club, sauna, tennis, bars and restaurants.
Offer Receive 6 nights for the price of 5. Dates vary. Call for details.
Prices from £53 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
SHERATON SENGGIGIBEACH RESORT
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INDOCHINAOne of the most beautiful and unspoilt areas of Asia, Indochina is a region of paddy
fields, ancient monuments, mountainous jungle, stunning coasts and vibrant cities.
Take in the slow pace of Vietnam with its French colonial cities, the amazing temple
complexes of Angkor Wat, or the laid-back atmosphere of Luang Prabang, Laos.
Getting there Vietnam Airlines fly directly to Hanoi and Saigon from London Heathrow. Other popular routes include flights via Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur and Singapore. Flying time to the region is around 13 hours.
Guide to the countries Vietnam offers two outstanding cities in Saigon and Hanoi. The capital Hanoi in particular has retained much of its character and history and is the gateway to one of the region’s most amazing sights; Halong Bay. The beaches of Vietnam are becoming more and more popular, with resorts such as Hoi An, Phan Thiet and Nha Trang, but there is so much more to these areas, with impressive historical temples and busy, photogenic ports. The World Heritage site of Angkor Wat, Cambodia is famous for its beauty and splendour and a must-see on any Indochina itinerary. Luang Prabang, in the north of neighbouring Laos, is a tranquil town on the banks of the Mekong River, providing visitors with a taste of authentic Asia.
When to go For Hanoi the summer months from May to October can be hot with regular downpours. Winter from November to April is cooler
and drier and a better time to visit. Saigon is particularly hot during March to May, with the wet season from May to November. December to March is considered the best time to visit Saigon and the beaches of Central Vietnam. For Angkor Wat and Cambodia, November to February is ideal with cooler and drier weather. May to October sees brief showers and high humidity. October to March is the best time to visit Luang Prabang in Laos, when the weather is cooler and drier than at other times.
Important to note As of 1 July 2015, British passport holders are able to enter Vietnam for up to 15 days without a visa. You’ll still need a visa to enter Vietnam for periods of 15 days and longer and if you wish to re-enter Vietnam within 30 days of your departure. If you plan to leave Vietnam and re-enter from another country make sure you get a multiple visit visa. For Cambodia and Laos you can get a visa on arrival for $30 and $35 respectively. You must have 2 passport sized photographs and your passport must be
valid for at least a further six months. For visa information please call The Visa Travel Company on 01270 250590 or visit www.thetravelvisacompany.co.uk. Please note that visa requirements can change. Please check for the latest information. For vaccination requirements for Indochina, please contact your doctor.
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THE BEST OF INDOCHINA 17 Day Private Tour
Price includes• 16 nights hotel accommodation • Breakfast daily, 9 lunches and 2 dinners• Private touring as shown • Flights Hanoi-Hue, Danang-Saigon, Phnom Penh-Siem Reap, Siem Reap- Luang Prabang • Air-conditioned vehicles • English-speaking guides
Day 1 Hanoi You will be met at the airport and
transferred to your hotel for a two night stay.
Day 2 Hanoi Enjoy a guided tour of Hanoi.
A traditional cyclo tour through the narrow,
ancient streets of the exotic Old Quarter is a
great way to soak up the sights.
Day 3 Hanoi - Halong Bay Depart for Halong
Bay, a four hour drive from Hanoi. Here you’ll
enjoy an overnight cruise on a traditional junk
through the thousands of limestone islands.
Day 4 Halong Bay - Hue Rise early to enjoy
the scenery before breakfast and transfer to
Hanoi Airport. En route enjoy a traditional
Vietnamese lunch at a local house in Yen Duc
Village. Early evening flight to Hue.
Day 5 Hue Full day city tour of historic Hue,
located by the Perfume River.
Day 6 Hue - Hoi An Today drive south to Hoi
An via the Hai Van Pass, probably the most
scenic stretch of coast road in Vietnam.
Day 7 Hoi An Enjoy a guided walking tour
of Hoi An. Take a short boat trip to visit local
handicraft villages or experience a cooking
class in a villa on the banks of the river.
Day 8 Hoi An - Saigon From Hoi An take a
short flight to Saigon the cosmopolitan heart
of Vietnam. Soak up the exotic atmosphere of
this frenetic city with a guided tour of the main
highlights. Afternoon at leisure.
Day 9 Saigon - Cao Dai Temple - Cu Chi Tunnels Visit the fascinating Cao Dai Temple,
home to a unique religion. Continue to the
infamous Cu Chi Tunnels before returning to
the city.
Day 10 Mekong Delta Visit Cai Be floating
market. Continue cruising along the Mekong
canals before lunch and overnight in Can Tho.
Day 11 Can Tho - Chau Doc Visit Cai Rang
floating market. After lunch, walk around
Chau Doc and see the bustling market and
visit monks at a monastery.
Day 12 Chau Doc - Phnom Penh Board a
speedboat for a 5-hour journey to Phnom
Penh. Check in to your hotel, then an
afternoon tour of Phnom Penh.
Day 13 Phnom Penh - Siem Reap Flight to
Siem Reap. Spend the afternoon visiting the
amazing and awe inspiring temples of Angkor.
Day 14 Temples of Angkor Continue to
explore the Angkor temples.
Day 15 Siem Reap - Luang Prabang Fly
to Luang Prabang, set amongst forested
mountains and dotted with golden temples
that are home to saffron robed monks.
Day 16 Luang Prabang Enjoy a morning tour
of the atmospheric town of Luang Prabang.
Day 17 Depart Luang Prabang Morning at
leisure before your transfer to the airport to
complete the itinerary.
Prices Standard (4 star) from £2599 or
Superior (5 star) from £3059. Per person,
based on twin share.
This 17 day Indochina highlights
tour encompasses the very best
of Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos.
Travel south through Vietnam
from Hanoi to Saigon, taking in
sights such as Halong Bay, Hue
and Hoi An. Cross the border into
Cambodia to discover Phnom
Penh and Angkor Wat. The trip
ends in magical Laos with a stay
in laid-back Luang Prabang.
International flights are not
included. Departs daily.
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THE BEST OF VIETNAM 12 Day Private Tour
Price includes• 11 nights hotel accommodation • Breakfast daily, 2 lunches and 1 dinner• Private touring as shown • Flights Hanoi-Hue and Danang-Saigon• Air-conditioned vehicles • English-speaking guides
Day 1 Arrive Hanoi Your guide will meet you
on arrival at the airport and take you to your
accommodation.
Day 2 Hanoi Visit Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum,
and several of his houses. Continue on to
the Temple of Literature before lunch in a
local restaurant. Visit the History or Fine Arts
museum, then a cyclo tour of the Old Quarter.
Day 3 Halong Bay Cruise Drive to Halong Bay
for a two day cruise. Begin with a seafood
lunch, and then explore limestone caves.
Relax in the afternoon on deck, go for a swim
or try some kayaking.
Day 4 Hanoi to Hue Return to Hanoi for a
flight to Hue. Stop en route with a traditional
Vietnamese lunch in Yen Duc Village.
Day 5 Hue Full day tour of historic Hue,
located by the Perfume River. Includes the
Imperial Citadel and a boat trip.
Day 6 Hue to Hoi An Scenic drive to Hoi An
via the spectacular Hai Van Pass.
Day 7 Hoi An This morning take a guided
walking tour of Hoi An’s ancient town. Enjoy a
short boat trip to local handicraft villages.
Day 8 Hoi An Full day at leisure in Hoi An.
Day 9 Hoi An to Saigon Transfer to Danang
airport then morning flight to Saigon.
Afternoon half day city tour includes the
former Presidential Palace, the War Remnants
Museum, Notre Dame Cathedral, the Post
Office and finally Dong Khoi Street.
Day 10 Cu Chi tunnels This labyrinth of
tunnels is where the Viet Cong hid during
the war. Today the remaining tunnels have
become a tourist attraction, giving visitors a
feel of what underground life was like during
the war. Optional upgrade speedboat transfer
to Cu Chi Tunnels from £36 per person.
Day 11 Mekong Delta Full day tour. Visit the
colourful Cai Be floating market and local
cottage industries on a relaxing cruise. After
lunch in an exquisite villa return to Saigon.
Day 12 Depart Saigon Time at leisure before
your airport transfer.
• Extend your tour with a 3 day 2 night add-on
to spectacular Angkor Wat, located close to
the city of Siem Reap in Cambodia. See page
114 for details and prices.
Prices Standard (4 star) from £1599 or
Superior (5 star) from £1999. Per person,
based on twin share.
Experience Vietnam’s highlights
in just 12 days with flights
between each city, enabling you
to see as much as you can. See
Hanoi, the Paris of the Orient,
stay overnight on a traditional
junk in Halong Bay. Take in the
ancient capital of Hue, witness
the spectacular scenery of the
Hai Van Pass then relax in the
charming fishing port of Hoi An
with its sandy beaches. End
your tour in bustling Saigon.
International flights are not
included. Departs daily.
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THE BEST OF VIETNAM & CAMBODIA 16 Day Private Tour
Price includes• 15 nights hotel accommodation • Breakfast daily, 6 lunches and 1 dinner• Private touring as shown • Flights Hanoi-Hue, Danang-Saigon and Phnom Penh-Siem Reap• Air-conditioned vehicles • English-speaking guides
Day 1 Arrive Hanoi Your guide will meet you
on arrival at the airport and take you to your
accommodation.
Day 2 Hanoi Visit Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum,
and several of his houses. Continue on to
the Temple of Literature before lunch in a
local restaurant. Visit the History of Fine Arts
museum, followed by a cyclo tour of the Old
Quarter.
Day 3 Halong Bay Cruise Drive to Halong Bay
for a two day cruise. Begin with a seafood
lunch, and then explore limestone caves.
Relax in the afternoon on deck, go for a swim
or try some kayaking.
Day 4 Hanoi to Hue Return to Hanoi for a
flight to Hue. Stop en route with a traditional
Vietnamese lunch in Yen Duc Village.
Day 5 Hue Full day tour of historic Hue,
located by the Perfume River. Includes the
Imperial Citadel and a boat trip.
Day 6 Hue to Hoi An Scenic drive to Hoi An
via the spectacular Hai Van Pass.
Day 7 Hoi An This morning take a guided
walking tour of Hoi An’s ancient town. Enjoy a
short boat trip to local handicraft villages.
Day 8 Hoi An to Saigon Transfer to Danang
airport then a morning flight to Saigon.
Afternoon half day city tour of Saigon.
Day 9 Cu Chi tunnels This labyrinth of tunnels
is where the Viet Cong hid during the war.
Today the remaining tunnels have become a
tourist attraction, giving visitors a feel of what
underground life was like during the war.
Optional upgrade: speedboat transfer to Cu
Chi Tunnels from £36 per person.
Day 10 Saigon to The Mekong Delta Visit
the colourful Cai Be floating market and local
cottage industries on a relaxing cruise. Lunch
in an exquisite villa before continuing to Can
Tho.
Day 11 Mekong Delta Visit the Cai Rang
floating market then a sampan ride through
Tau Su Forest. Overnight in Chau Doc.
Day 12 Mekong Delta to Phnom Penh
Board a speedboat for a 5-hour journey to
Cambodia’s capital.
Day 13 Phnom Penh Half day tour of the city.
Day 14 Phnom Penh to Siem Reap Morning
flight to Siem Reap. Afternoon tour of Angkor
Wat with a sunset view.
Day 15 Angkor Wat Half day morning or
afternoon tour of Angkor Wat.
Day 16 Depart Siem Reap At leisure before
your transfer to the airport.
Prices per person based on twin share:
Standard (4-star) from £2199. Superior (5-
star) from £2569.
Experience the highlights of
Vietnam and Cambodia. In
Vietnam see Hanoi and stay
overnight on a traditional junk in
magnificent Halong Bay. Take in
the ancient capital of Hue and
the beaches of historic Hoi An.
Following a Saigon stay head
to the Mekong Delta before a
speedboat to Cambodia’s Phnom
Penh and finally the impressive
Angkor Wat. International flights
are not included. Departs daily.
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HALONG BAY OVERNIGHT CRUISES
PARADISE LUXURY CRUISESAPHRODITE CRUISES
This 17-cabin vessel features
a stylish restaurant and bar for
an exclusive dining experience
on the third deck. The top deck
serves as a perfect place to enjoy
the sunshine and discovering the
splendid beauty of Halong Bay –
the most stunning bay in Vietnam
with a 360 view. Choose from
Deluxe Cabins, Deluxe Balcony
Cabins, Terrace Suite and Paradise Suite. Facilities include a spa and
range of included actitvites.
Day 1 Depart from Hanoi for the drive to Halong Bay. Once on board,
there will be a short safety briefi ng followed by lunch in the dining
room as you admire the stunning beauty of the bay. The fi rst stop is
the Surprise Cave, the largest in all of Halong Bay. See the impressive
limestone formations as you wander through the cave, keeping an eye
out for frog rock and the big Buddha. Then cruise to Soi Sim Island
where you can swim, kayak or soak up the sun on the sandy beach.
Return back to the boat in time for sunset drinks and dinner. This
evening you might like to watch a fi lm in you cabin, try your hand at
squid fi shing or relax with a massage at the spa.
Day 2 Wake up to the majestic beauty of Halong and enjoy some
morning exercise with a quick swim or paddle in a kayak. Then enjoy a
hearty breakfast as the boat wends its way through the islands and back
to the pier at Tuan Chau arriving around 10am, returning to Hanoi in the
mid afternoon.
Prices from £292 per person based on twin share.
A 17-cabin vessel that offers
cabins with sea views. It also
features free Tai Chi lessons, free
movies and use of board games,
and activities such as kayaking
and snorkelling. Located either on
the upper or lower deck, rooms
and suites offer en suite facilities.
Some cabins offer a spa bath and
terrace.
Day 1 Depart from Hanoi and travel by road to the Tuan Chau Island pier
in Halong Bay arriving just before midday. Take a tender boat to meet
the Aphrodite overnight cruise, for check in and a short safety briefi ng.
Then set off to cruise the emerald waters and enjoy lunch while admiring
the views. Later in the afternoon take a sampan to discover village life on
the water or for the more active there is the option to kayak. Return to
Aphrodite in time for a sunset drink and dinner.
Day 2 This morning join in with the ancient art of tai chi on the sun deck
or watch the bay wake from the comfort of your room. After breakfast an
expert guide will accompany you for an exploration of the Me Cung Cave,
a remnant of the Stone Age era some 10,000 years ago. A narrow crack
forms the entrance to the cave that then opens into several chambers
with impressive stalagmites and stalactites. Then return to Aphrodite to
for a light brunch on the cruise back to the Tuan Chau pier, and onwards
to Hanoi arriving mid afternoon.
Prices from £225 per person based on twin share.
Halong Bay is an UNESCO World Heritage Site on Vietnam’s north east coast. Translated as Bay of Descending Dragons, towering limestone karsts represent the dragon’s back, surrounded by jade green water creating an unforgettable sight. We offer a range of overnight cruises to suit all budgets and tastes. Please call for details.
Fly to or from Halong Bay by seaplane for a supplement of £225 per person per way.
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97INSPIRED BY ASIA INDOCHINA
HALONG BAY OVERNIGHT CRUISES
VIOLET CRUISE PARADISE PEAK
With just six luxurious
cabins, the Violet gives
visitors an exclusive look
at the wonders of Halong
Bay. In this small yet
luxurious craft, visitors
can appreciate the bay’s
massive scale, the boat’s
red sails dwarfed by the
bay’s towering limestone
islands. Built to resemble a traditional Asian junk, the wood-clad Violet
features gleaming wooden fl oors, opulent silks and velvets, and cabins
with fl oor-to-ceiling windows that frame the breathtaking views. Facilities
include a restaurant, bar, spa, sauna, gym and library.
Day 1 Depart at 08:30am from the hotel. Depart Hanoi for the UNESCO
heritage-listed Halong Bay on a two day cruise through thousands of
limestone islands. Climb onboard a luxurious junk, meet the crew and
set sail while lunch is served. In the afternoon, the boat docks to allow
passengers a short trek to a nearby summit for a panoramic view of the
bay, followed by swimming on the quiet beach or sunbathing on the boat
deck. Over the next two days, visit a traditional fl oating village, enjoy
more swimming and sunbathing, or take a bamboo rowboat to a water
tunnel and coral reefs in a secluded lagoon. As the sun sets over the
water enjoy cocktails on the deck and gourmet dinners under the stars.
Day 2 In the morning, visit a limestone grotto then cruise leisurely
through the bay before returning to the dock to depart for Hanoi.
Prices from £385 per person based on twin share.
Paradise Peak offers 8 stately suites for infi nite comfort and care. All
facilities have been designed with the utmost elegance and the crew
composed to ensure a guest service worthy of the most remarkable
grand hotels. Two of the cabins are located on the fi rst deck, four on the
second deck and two on the third deck. They all feature a bedroom,
a large en-suite bathroom and a private dining area. Facilities include
private dining options, a restaurant, bar, spa, sauna, steam room, fi tness
room and library.
Day 1 After a transfer from Hanoi, enjoy lunch on board while cruising
past the islands and islets. In the afternoon visit Luon Cave – one of
Halong Bay’s most beautiful of Caves and enjoy kayaking or relaxing
and taking in the views. Continue on to Titop Island where you can enjoy
swimming or a walk to the top for a panoramic view. In the evening enjoy
a cooking demonstration before an elegant dinner.
Day 2 Tai Chi lesson at dawn for those who wish to rise early. Light
breakfast then explore Sung Sot Cave for great views before a return to
disembark and return to Hanoi.
Prices from £520 per person based on twin share.
• Cruises shown are based on a 2 day 1 night duration but we can also offer 3 day 2 night cruises.• All of the cruises include private transfers with pick up and drop off at a Hanoi hotel, or the airport.• There is an option to include a visit to a traditional Vietnamese village at Yen Duc en route to Hanoi or the airport.
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SAPA VALLEY EXPLORER 5 Day Private Tour
Day 1 Depart Hanoi You’ll be met at your
Hanoi hotel or at the airport and privately
transferred to the train station for a 2200 hrs
departure (times vary check for details). Board
the Victoria Express train. This service recalls
a more romantic era as you pass through
the exotic landscapes of North Vietnam.
Indulge yourself in the dining carriage, “Le
Tonkin”, where you can savour the delights
of traditional Vietnamese and Western
cuisine. The talented Chef has selected the
best wines, adding a further exquisite touch
to a memorable experience. Discover the
4-course set menus (dinner not included).
Your Superior Cabin is air-conditioned, wood
panelled and offers baggage storage and
oversized windows.
Day 2 Arrive Sapa The train arrives early the
following morning into Lao Cai Station. Usually
around 0630 hrs. Met on arrival and privately
transferred to The Victoria Sapa Resort & Spa
for a 2 night stay in a Deluxe room including
breakfast daily. The rest of the day is at leisure
to enjoy the views and the facilities of the
hotel. The four star Victoria Sapa Resort &
Spa, the only luxury hotel in the region, was
built as a traditional chalet with accented
wooden décor. The Resort overhangs the
village, blending perfectly with its natural
surroundings. The restaurant has a large
central fireplace and a cosy atmosphere. In
the summer months, dine on the terrace and
enjoy spectacular views over Mount Fansipan.
Day 3 Trekking Explore the valleys of Sapa
with a trek that includes a visit to the Tay
minority and the Red Dao. Drive to Su Pan,
the starting point of your trek and commence
your walk downhill through picturesque
mountain scenery. Stop for a chat with the Tay
people of Ban Ho village and see their houses
built on stilts. Then cross the suspension
bridge over the river and enjoy lunch in a
local home where you will get a peek into the
daily lives of the people. After lunch, walk
through the rice terraces to a Red Dao village
for a cup of tea and chat before looping back
around to Ban Ho village and walking uphill to
Su Pan where the car will be waiting for you.
Please note This trek requires a good level of
fitness. Approximately 2 hours driving, 5 hours
walking, 1 hour for a lunch break.
Day 4 Village Tour and depart Sapa Start
this half-day walking tour by visiting the rustic
village of Suoi Ho. Take a stroll through its
sleepy streets and get a glimpse of village life
before stopping by a local school to meet the
children. Later, enjoy views of the stunning
countryside as you walk along the Suoi Ho
River, en-route to the second village of Ma Tra.
Soak in its vibrant culture and visit its quaint
Christian church before being picked up by
car and returning to Sapa Town.
Please note This is an easy walk with a basic
level of fitness required. Approximately 30
mins driving / 3½ hours walking.
Afternoon at leisure at the hotel before your
transfer to Lan Cai station. The train is due to
depart at 2105 hrs.
Day 5 Arrive Hanoi at around 0530 hrs to
complete your tour.
Prices from £1599 person based on twin
share.
The former French outpost of
Sapa in the hills of northern
Vietnam offers travellers a
fascinating glimpse into the life
of some of Vietnam’s ethnic
minority groups, including the
Red Dzao and H’mong people.
Elevated 1600m above sea level,
it also offers visitors some of
Vietnam’s best trekking routes,
laden with traditional village
home stays tucked amid vast
rice paddies and tropical jungle.
Located just under 250 miles
from Hanoi, this scenic location
is best reached with an overnight
train each way. An above average
fitness level is required for the
trekking. We can also offer a
similar itinerary without trekking.
Please ask for details.
Price includes• 2 nights at the 4-star Victoria Sapa Resort • 2 nights aboard the Victoria Express Train with a Superior Cabin• 2 breakfasts and 1 lunch• Air-conditioned vehicles• English-speaking guides
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HANOI
Travel Hanoi is served by
scheduled services from most
Asian cities, with onwards
connections from London.
Vietnam Airlines fl y direct from
London Heathrow. The airport is
22 miles north of the city, which
is a 50-minute drive.
We can arrange for you to be
met on arrival and transferred
privately to your hotel. From
£14 per person.
Attractions Start in the grand
Ba Dinh Square. Visit Ho Chi
Minh’s Mausoleum, where
you will see the former leader
laid out before you. Nearby
are some of his houses, set in
landscaped grounds. Visit The
Temple of Literature, founded in
the 11th century. Spend time in
the Old Quarter, either on foot
or on a cyclo (a cycle rickshaw).
Further afi eld Halong Bay is one
of Vietnam’s major attractions
and for good reason. It is
possible to visit on a day trip,
but this involves an eight hour
round trip transfer. Alternatively
we offer a two-day cruise which
allows you more time to enjoy
the breathtaking scenery.
When to go November to
February is Hanoi’s driest and
therefore best time to visit.
March to October is hotter, with
more rainfall and high humidity.
Hanoi is generally warm to hot,
though in winter it can reach a
low of just 13°C.
Hanoi, known as the ‘Paris of the Orient’
offers a delightful taste of Asia’s heritage.
Retaining much of its French colonial
architecture, this is a city of wide, tree-
lined boulevards and lakes. Spend time
in the vibrant Old Quarter; a maze of
bustling, narrow streets offering all kinds
of goods, with an excellent selection of
cafes, bars and restaurants. A visit to the
nearby and iconic Halong Bay is a must.
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HANOI Hotels
SOFITEL LEGEND METROPOLE HOTEL
HOTEL DE L’OPERA HANOI MAI CHAU LODGE 3 DAY TOUR
LA SIESTA HOTEL & SPA
Located at the heart of Hanoi close to the old quarter and the Opera
House, the charming Sofi tel Legend Metropole Hotel blends warm
Vietnamese hospitality with European luxury. The 364 rooms and suites
are located in two wings; the historical Metropole Wing features rooms
with the original grandeur, while the newer Opera Wing offers neo-classic
elegance. Facilities include a stylish pool with loungers set in well
manicured gardens, a spa, fi tness centre, a café, bar and two restaurants.
Offer Receive a 5% discount for stays of 5 nights or more. Year round.
Prices from £112 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
The 5-star Hotel de l’Opera Hanoi is located in the centre of Hanoi, close
to the Opera House. Just 3 minutes walk from Hoan Kiem Lake and the
Old Quarter, the 105 rooms and suites are a sanctuary of comfort, with
large bathrooms, hand-picked luxurious amenities and 21st Century
technology. Restaurants, a bar, a four-season swimming pool combine
to deliver memorable operatic moments for leisure travellers. For a cool
place to enjoy cocktails and convivial company try La Fee Verte Bar.
Offer Receive a 10% discount for stays of 5 nights or more, year round.
Prices from £75 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
Mai Chau is only four hours away from bustling Hanoi but feels like
another world. You are transferred into the lush mountains, home
to remote hill tribes and visited by surprisingly few tourists. There
is a range of activities including optional cycling tours through the
valley, kayaking and guided walks to the local villages. This 3 day
package includes 4 star accommodation, all meals and roundtrip
transfers from Hanoi. Facilities include an outdoor pool and spa.
Prices from £326 per person, based on twin share.
A peaceful hotel with a homely feel, The La Siesta hotel is the newest
member of the Hanoi Elegance Hotel Group. Superbly located on old
Ma May Street, it is in easy reach of Hanoi’s evocative Hoan Kiem Lake
and major attractions. This boutique property is both modern in style as
well as embodying the hidden charm of Hanoi’s Old Quarter. The hotel
has 50 spacious bedrooms, including Suites and Duplex rooms (good for
families). Other facilities include a spa, gym and a movie room.
Offer Receive a 10% discount for stays of 5 nights or more. Year round
Prices from £34 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
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HOI AN, HUE and DANANG
Hoi An is an exceptionally
well-preserved example of a
South-East Asian trading port
dating from the 15th to the 19th
century. Its buildings and its
street plan reflect the influences
that have combined to produce
this unique heritage site. Hoi An
offers a superb sandy beach,
riverside cafes and restaurants
and excellent shopping
opportunities.
Danang is the nearest airport
to Hoi An, a 30-kilometre,
45-minute drive and is served
by scheduled flights from
Hanoi, Saigon and Siem Reap,
Cambodia.
Attractions
Visit My Son, (pictured above)
a World Heritage site, 40
kilometres southwest of Hoi
An. Located in a lush valley. My
Son was a capital and religious
centre of the Cham people, now
remaining with red brick towers
and sanctuaries. My Son, is
considered to be in the same
league as some of Southeast
Asia’s greatest archaeological
sites.
When to go
The temperature is warm
throughout the year (average
29°C), yet hotter during June
and July and cooler around
December. Hoi An is affected
by monsoon winds with rain
from September until January,
and generally dry for the rest of
the year. Visit Hoi An, Hue and
Danang between May and June.
Hoi An is an exceptionally well-preserved
example of a South-East Asian trading
port dating from the 15th - 19th century.
Its buildings and its street plan reflect the
influences that have combined to produce
this unique heritage site. Nearby Danang is
the main hub with the airport as the gateway
to the region and includes the golden sands
of China Beach. The beautiful city of Hue is
rich in history, culture and temples. Spend
time exploring the Citadel, before a sunset
cruise on the Perfume River.
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HOI AN, HUE and DANANG Hotels
The Nam Hai is a stylish and luxurious resort, superbly situated on 85 acres of landscaped gardens and
with direct access to a white sandy beach. The ancient and picturesque town of Hoi An is a 15-minute
drive away. This all-villa property features a modern, Asian design and 60 one-bedroom pool villas
ranging from one to five bedrooms, each with its own infinity pool. Facilities include a tropical spa beside
a lagoon, three beachfront pools, an 18-hole golf course nearby, and two restaurants.
Offer Receive 3 nights for the price of 2 in low season. Call for details.
Prices from £238 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
The Victoria Hoi An Beach Resort enjoys a wonderful seafront position, three miles from Hoi An. The
resort replicates a traditional fishing village with small streets, water ponds and village houses with clay-
tiled roofs, providing a warm and restful environment. All 109 rooms face the river or sea and are designed
to combine local style with the comfort of an International hotel. Facilities include a pool, kids’ pool, spa,
library, fitness centre, bars and restaurant. Shuttle bus to Hoi An.
Offer Receive 4 nights for the price of 3 in low season. Call for details.
Prices from £57 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
THE NAM HAIHOI ANHHHHH
VICTORIA HOI AN BEACHRESORT & SPA
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HOI AN, HUE and DANANG Hotels
LA RESIDENCE HOTEL & SPA
ALMANITY HOI AN
Hue’s first deluxe boutique hotel, La Residence Hotel and Spa is nestled
on the banks of the Perfume river, within easy walking distance of Hue.
This graceful Art Deco building was once the residence of the French
governor. The 122 guest rooms have been designed with colonial charm
and Asian opulence and feature private terraces with views towards the
river. Facilities include an elegantly-designed pool by the river’s edge, a
spa, tennis courts, a fitness centre, a bar and a restaurant.
Offer Receive 3 nights for the price of 2 in low season. Call for details.
Prices from £69 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
Almanity Hoi An is a new and unique resort in the heart of Hoi An town.
Just minutes from the World Heritage listed Ancient Town, this stunning
Alma Resort offers guests 145 spacious rooms in a classic heritage design,
surrounding tropical gardens and inviting terraced pools. Inclusive daily
90 minute Spa Journeys combine massage, meditation and Tai Chi are
offered in the My Chi Spa, one of the largest spas in Asia, featuring 40
treatment rooms and a relaxation pool set within a Silent Sanctuary.
Offer Receive a complimentary spa treatment daily. Call for details.
Prices from £69 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
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ANANTARA RESORT HOI AN
The Anantara Resort Hoi An occupies a superb location by the scenic
river, a short stroll from the colourful and bustling ancient town of Hoi
An. The beach is 3 miles away. This colonial style resort offers a relaxing
and tranquil setting amidst the sights and sounds of Hoi An. Superior
rooms have a private porch overlooking the beautiful gardens. Junior
suites are larger, some with river views. Facilities include a pool, massage,
restaurant, café and bar. Sunset river cruises depart from the hotel.
Offer Receive a 10% discount for stays of 5 nights or more. Year round.
Prices from £68 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
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FUSION MAIA DANANG
Fusion Maia is a unique all-villa resort that dedicates itself to the art of
relaxation. This unique property with its simple design, down-to-earth five-
star service and surprising all spa-inclusive concept is located on China
Beach between Danang and historic Hoi An (just a complimentary shuttle
bus ride away). Treat yourself to a minimum of 2 treatments guaranteed
per day, at no extra charge. Facilities include an infinity pool, gym, spa,
restaurant, lounge and pool bar.
Offer Receive 7 nights for the price of 5 in low season. Call for details.
Prices from £197 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
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HOI AN Tours
MY SON TOUR
COOKING CLASS
Depart your Hoi An hotel for My Son, the former capital of the ancient
Cham civilization. The Cham people ruled central Vietnam from the 2nd
- 13th centuries, and their kingdom once stretched into what are now
Laos and parts of Cambodia. Most of the ruins have decayed over time
or have been looted. There are a few headless statues in place and one
of the temples has some decorative stonework. These ruins are set in
an impressive jungle location, surrounded by mountains and make for a
spectacular photo opportunity. Early morning departures on this guided
half-day tour are best to avoid the crowds and the heat of the day.
Prices from £40 per person.
Begin your half-day culinary tour at Vy’s Market Restaurant in downtown
Hoi An, one of central Vietnam’s tastiest eateries and cooking schools.
Short boat ride to a nearby market to wander through the stalls with a
local guide to learn about the uses of fresh noodles, dried spices and
fresh herbs. Sample dishes from 10 different food counters. Get a quick
demonstration before trying your hand at creating the same dishes from
scratch. Round up your culinary adventure with a sit-down meal to enjoy
your dish, and go home with a copy of the recipes and a Vietnamese
cooking utensil as a keepsake. Class is on a shared basis.
Prices from £48 per person.
HOI AN WALKING TOUR
Begin your half-day guided tour of Hoi An, a former trading port that
welcomed Chinese, Dutch, French, Japanese, Portuguese and Arab
merchants between the 16th to 18th centuries. Today Hoi An is famous
for its restored architecture, homemade silk, expert tailors and delicious
noodles and seafood. Its relaxed vibe and pedestrianised streets make
this town a pleasure to walk around and discover new things. The tour
includes stops at several famous landmarks. Departs daily.
Prices from £30 per person.
CYCLING TOUR
This morning cycle 15 minutes out of Hoi An to board a small boat for
a 35 minute cruise along the waterways of Quang Nam Province. Jump
back onto the saddle and peddle through the green paddy fields and
villages, stopping at traditional handicraft villages along the way to see local
craftsmen producing rice paper and sleeping mats. In the 16th century
Hoi An served as Vietnam’s major trading hub, attracting merchants from
around the world. Visit the local boat making village of Kim Bong and hear
the story of traditional Vietnamese seamanship, before cycling back to Hoi
An in the early afternoon. Fully guided tour departs daily.
Prices from £34 per person.
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NHA TRANG and PHAN THIET
Travel The nearest airport to Nha
Trang is Cam Ranh International
Airport, which is a 20 mile drive.
There are flights to Cam Ranh
from Saigon, Hanoi and Danang.
Phan Thiet is located just under
100 miles north of Saigon, a 3-4
hour transfer.
When to go Nha Trang is very
fortunate to be free of the effects
of the monsoon that trouble
other parts of Vietnam. It has a
delightfully warm climate year
round, with the exception of
the period of November to mid
December. Phan Thiet and
nearby Mui Ne beach enjoy good
weather throughout the year with
the exception of the September –
November period.
Nha Trang has some
of the best white
sand beaches, luxury
resorts and natural
beauty that the
country has to offer. Located only 450
kilometres from Saigon, Nha Trang is
known for being one of the most bustling
beach cities in Vietnam. Phan Thiet is a
little piece of paradise, with the golden
sandy beaches of nearby Mui Ne and a
palm fringed coastline.
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NHA TRANG and PHAN THIET Hotels
Situated in the picturesque Ninh Van Bay, An Lam Villas will indulge you with exquisite food, flawless
service and its stunning white sand beach. The Beach and Lagoon Front Villas include a private pool
and are set in exclusive, private locations with stunning views over the lagoon and Ninh Van Bay. An
open plan layout is designed to take full advantage of the spectacular views and create an inviting indoor/
outdoor ambience. Facilities include an outdoor pool, fitness centre, spa, bar and choice of restaurants.
Offer Receive a 10% discount for stays of 10 nights or more. Year round.
Prices from £162 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
A 150-km drive from Saigon set on the secluded and pristine Ke Ga Bay, facing a century-old French
lighthouse, the Princess D’An Nam Resort & Spa is the first all-villa luxury boutique resort in Vietnam.
With its 48 exclusive villas, four swimming pools, two restaurants, and a sumptuous 1,800–square-metre
spa complex, Princess D’An Nam Resort & Spa is an idyllic haven of calm and luxury. Choose from 36
Mandarin Suites, 18 Princess Villas, and three double-storey Empress Villas.
Offer Receive a 10% discount for stays of 10 nights or more. Year round.
Prices from £95 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
AN LAMNINH VAN BAY VILLAS
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SAIGON
Travel Saigon is served by
scheduled services from most
Asian cities, with onwards
connections from London.
Vietnam Airlines offer direct
fl ights from London Heathrow.
The airport is a 20-25 minute
drive. We can arrange for
you to be met on arrival and
transferred privately to your
hotel. From £8 per person.
Attractions Visit the
Reunifi cation Palace; a symbol
of the war and scene of the
fall of Saigon in 1975. The
French-style Central Post Offi ce
is interesting as it has changed
very little over the decades. See
the Notre Dame Cathedral, very
much a landmark in Saigon.
A cyclo ride through the streets
at night is an experience, and
a drink from a rooftop bar
overlooking the Saigon River is
recommended. Further afi eld
consider a cruise in the Mekong
and a visit to the Cu Chi
Tunnels, used during the war by
the Vietcong.
When to go The driest period of
the year for Saigon tends to be
December through to March.
The rainy season is usually May
to October and tropical storms
do occur. Saigon is hot and
humid all year round with an
average temperature of between
31°C and 35°C.
Vietnam’s largest city, Saigon (also called
Ho Chi Minh City), is fast catching
up with Asia’s other cities in terms of
development, yet it still retails a French
colonial fl avour and a timeless quality.
Alongside its colonial buildings and
bustling street markets you’ll fi nd sleek
new bars, pavement cafés and some of
the most delicious food in Asia with a
good choice of restaurants.2
3
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SAIGON Hotels
VILLA SONG SAIGON
RENAISSANCE RIVERSIDE HOTEL SAIGON
CARAVELLE HOTEL
EDENSTAR SAIGON HOTEL
The Villa Song is a boutique hotel with a superb riverside setting on
the banks of the Saigon River. A shuttle bus or boat transfers guests
to the centre of Saigon for sightseeing and shopping. Facilities include
an outdoor, 30 metre-long swimming pool, gym, bar and spa. The
restaurant offers all-day dining with eclectic Western, Asian and
Vietnamese dishes. Enjoy a candlelit dinner by the fl owing Saigon river.
The 23 elegantly decorated rooms offer modern facilities.
Offer Receive a 10% discount for stays of 5 nights or more. Year round.
Prices from £70 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
The Renaissance Riverside Hotel offers a superb central location with
panoramic views of the Saigon River together with easy access to
museums, galleries and shops, and famous landmarks such as the
Opera House, Reunifi cation Palace and the Notre Dame Cathedral.
The 319 modern guest rooms offer a choice of city or river views. Enjoy
a swim in the impressive rooftop swimming pool. Other hotel facilities
include a poolside bar, gym, spa, coffee shop, cafe and a restaurant.
Offer Receive a 10% discount for stays of 5 nights or more. Year round.
Prices from £55 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
The Caravelle has been at the centre of Saigon society since the hotel
was opened in 1959. In 1998, an elegant 24-storey tower was built
as a complement to the original 10-storey building. With commanding
views of the city and an enviable location opposite the Opera House,
this landmark hotel is at the heart of the city. 335 rooms with city or river
views. Facilities include an outdoor pool, fi tness centre, jacuzzi, spa and
wide range of bars and restaurants.
Offer Receive a 10% discount for stays of 5 nights or more. Year round.
Prices from £92 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
The Edenstar Saigon is centrally located in District 1, within easy walking
distance to the sights of the city and the impressive Ben Thanh Market.
Facilities include an outdoor rooftop swimming pool with great views of
the city, a massage area, a fi tness centre, jacuzzi, steam room, sauna
and spa. The hotel’s restaurant offers Vietnamese and International
cuisines with all day dining. The pool bar offers light meals and snacks
and a choice of beverages.
Offer Receive a 10% discount for stays of 5 nights or more. Year round.
Prices from £35 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
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MEKONG DELTA HOTELS and TOUR
VICTORIA CAN THO RESORT
VICTORIA CHAU DOC HOTEL
The Victoria Can Tho Resort is a luxury hotel in the Mekong Delta.
Located close to Can Tho town, but a quiet retreat from the bustle of the
city, the resort sits on the banks of the river, set amidst exotic gardens.
The Lady Hau, a remodelled rice barge, is available for sunset and
dinner cruises. The colonial-style rooms are comfortable and spacious
and feature traditional furnishings. Facilities include a pool, a spa, fitness
centre, tennis, bicycle hire, free bus/boat to town, bar and restaurant.
Offer Receive a 10% discount for a 3 night stay. Year round.
Prices from £53 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
Built in colonial style with low-rise French architectural design, the
Victoria Chau Doc Hotel blends perfectly with its natural surroundings.
The hotel is located right on the banks of the Bassac River and offers
front seat views of the river habitat with its famous floating fish farming
villages, floating markets and Cham villages. Deep in the Mekong Delta,
Chau Doc town is 174 miles south-west of Ho Chi Minh City close to the
Cambodian border.
Offer Receive a 10% discount for a 3 night stay. Year round.
Prices from £42 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
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3 DAY MEKONG DELTA TOUR AND CRUISE
Price includes• 1 night aboard the Song Xanh sampan• 1 night 4-star Victoria Can Tho Resort• Touring as shown• Pick up and drop off at your Saigon hotel• Meals: 2 breakfasts, 1 lunch and 1 dinner
Experience the beauty of the Mekong Delta with an overnight cruise
aboard a traditional sampan and a night in a luxurious hotel set on
the banks of the river.
Day 1 Saigon - Mekong Delta Depart from Saigon in the morning
with a transfer to the Mekong Delta. Board your private Song Xanh
sampan. This cruise is designed to give travellers a private cruise
experience in the Mekong Delta aboard a unique and authentic
sampan. The boat features beautiful bamboo and rattan furniture,
a living area that converts to a private bedroom, shower and wc and
a sundeck where meals and drinks are served. Cruise the canals
of the delta and visit small villages. Glide into picture-postcard
scenery. Dinner is served at Nha Co, a house dating back to the
19th century.
Day 2 Can Tho Wake to the sound of the river as you arrive in
the Mekong Delta’s largest floating market, Cai Rang. Experience
the hustle and bustle of the market and witness boats filled with
coconuts and merchants haggling over goods. After a visit to a local
morning market your cruise will end mid morning. Then a short
transfer to the Victoria Can Tho for an overnight stay. See opposite
for details of the Victoria Can Tho Resort; a beautiful, colonial-style
hotel set on the banks of the river.
Day 3 Can Tho - Saigon Breakfast then your transfer back to
Saigon.
Price £460 per person, based on twin share.
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MEKONG RIVER CRUISE 12 Day Tour
Price includes• 2 nights in Siem Reap, 2 nights in Saigon• Tours of Angkor Wat and Saigon• 7 nights aboard the RV La Marguerite• All meals aboard the RV La Marguerite• Complimentary local beer, local spirits and soft drinks served at your discretion• Complimentary wine with lunch & dinner • Breakfast in Siem Reap and Saigon• Arrival and departure airport transfers
Day 1 Arrive Siem Reap Met on arrival and
privately transferred to the Shinta Mani Resort
for a 2 night stay in a Pool View room with
breakfast. See page 115 for details of the
Shinta Mani Resort.
Day 2 Angkor Wat Full day fully guided tour.
Day 3 Siem Reap, Embark Ship Board your
river ship, the RV La Marguerite. Enjoy a
Welcome Dinner on board tonight. Seven
Nights: RV La Marguerite.
Day 4 Kampong Tralach, Oudong Today, you
will set out for Kampong Tralach. Like a Local
– enjoy a traditional mode of transport and
head out on an exciting ox-cart ride, which will
give you a thrilling insight into village life. After,
visit the Imperial City. Like a Local – travel
by coach to the former capital of Cambodia,
Oudong, where you have the chance to
participate in a Buddhist blessing.
Day 5 Koh Chen, Phnom Penh Go ashore
to explore Koh Chen, a small village
which specialises in producing silver and
copperware in home workshops. After, cruise
to Phnom Penh, Cambodia’s capital. Enjoy
dinner, then absorb the culture of the region
during an onboard Khmer folk performance.
Day 6 Phnom Penh Join a sobering excursion
to the infamous Killing Fields and the Tuol
Sleng Genocide Museum today. After lunch
on board, you’ll visit the opulent Royal
Palace, the residence of the king, and see
the impressive Silver Pagoda. After dinner,
perhaps step out for an evening walk.
Day 7 Border Crossing, Tan Chau Enjoy the
day on board as you head to the Vietnamese
border. Later, your ship arrives in Tan Chau.
Day 8 Tan Chau, Sa Dec Today you’ll journey
along the Mekong’s tiny tributaries that are
dotted with chaotic stilt houses. Later, venture
ashore for a wonderful rickshaw tour of Tan
Chau. Back on board, perhaps attend a
lecture on Vietnam in the ship’s lounge.
Day 9 Sa Dec, Cai Be Take a boat ride to Sa
Dec for a tour. After lunch, a local boat takes
you to the river-land town of Cai Be to explore
its incredible floating markets. Then go ashore
to see Cai Be’s French Gothic cathedral and
visit a local rice paper manufacturer. This
evening, enjoy a Farewell Dinner on board.
Day 10 Disembark Ship, Cu Chi Tunnels, Saigon Disembark your ship in My Tho and
travel by private transfer to Saigon, visiting the
famous Cu Chi Tunnels on the way. Check in
and stay at the Caravelle Hotel Saigon for a 2
night stay. Add See page 109 for details of the
Caravelle Hotel Saigon.
Day 11 Saigon Full day at leisure in Saigon.
We can pre-book a half day city tour if
required.
Day 12 Depart Saigon Depart for the airport
with a private transfer.
Prices from £2099 per person, based on twin
share.
The boutique Mekong river ship
RV La Marguerite provides an
undeniably indulgent setting for a
cruise along the mighty Mekong
River. The Sun Deck offers great
views, comfortable sun loungers,
cold drinks from the bar, Tai
Chi classes and a pool. Indoors,
two lounges afford magnificent
views and wifi. Lounge and bar.
Gourmet meals are served in the
restaurant. 46 Cabins all with
private bathrooms. International
flights are not included.
Dates of departure on request.
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PHU QUOC ISLAND
Travel Phu Quoc airport is located
190 miles south of Saigon (one
hour fl ight). The island is also
served by fl ights from Hanoi, Can
Tho and Rach Gia.
When to go Phu Quoc has a sub-
equatorial climate and is at its best
during the November to March
period, with sunny skies and
pleasant temperatures around
25-28°C and relatively low
humidity. July to September sees
the full effect of the monsoon
season with wet weather.
A short, one-hour
fl ight to Phu Quoc
island is all it takes
for a perfect island
beach break.
The palm-fringed, white sand beaches
and warm waters are the perfect setting
for your stay. This charming island is
home to local villages whose way of life
has remained unchanged over the span
of generations.
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PHU QUOC ISLAND Hotels
The Chen Sea Resort & Spa is a four star resort set on a beautiful Ong Lang beach in a quiet part
of the island of Phu Quoc. The 36 rooms include private bungalows and villas and feature a private
balcony, some have sea views. Facilities include an extensive spa, a seafront restaurant offering local,
Mediterranean and International cuisine, an outdoor swimming pool, kids pool, gym and tennis. There is
a wide range of watersport activities available.
Offer Receive 4 nights for the price of 3 in low season. Call for details.
Prices from £98 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
Located on Phu Quoc Island, La Veranda Resort, a member of the MGallery collection, boasts a style
reminiscent of a French seaside mansion. Set in tropical gardens on a beautiful stretch of beach, the
resort boasts an evocative design comprising a rich blend of dark woods, fine linens and mosaic tiles,
complemented by large terraces with sweeping views. In addition to 43 rooms with private balconies,
La Veranda Resort features two restaurants, a lounge bar, swimming pool, water sports and a day spa.
Offer Receive 3 nights for the price of 2 in low season. Call for details.
Prices from £107 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
CHEN SEARESORT & SPA
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ANGKOR WAT and PHNOM PENH
Angkor Wat is world famous for its beauty and splendour. In 1992
UNESCO declared the monument and the whole city of Angkor
a World Heritage site. A few miles from Angkor Wat is the city of
Siem Reap where the majority of the hotels are located. The capital
of Cambodia, Phnom Penh is located on the banks of the Tonle
Sap and Mekong River. A city with French-infl uenced architecture,
history and wonderful river views.
TravelBoth Siem Reap and Phnom Penh
Airports are served with regular
fl ights from most parts of Asia.
Attractions There is so much to see at Angkor
Wat. Most visitors have a day or
two here. Highly recommended
is a sunrise visit to the site and
enjoy a sunset view from one of
the temples.
In Phnom Penh a visit to the Silver
Pagoda is recommended. The
dark side of the country’s history
is experienced at the genocide
museum. The river provides a lot
of opportunities for a boat trip on
the Mekong River.
When to go The driest and coolest
period is generally from November
to March. May through to October
sees high humidity and frequent,
but often brief showers. However
the busiest period for visitors is
during the dry and cool period
so you can expect crowds at the
temples of Angkor Wat.
Price includes• 2 nights 4 star hotel with breakfast daily• Roundtrip private airport transfers• Angkor Wat full day private tour
Day 1 Arrive Siem Reap Met on arrival and privately
transferred to your hotel.
Day 2 Angkor Wat A full day to explore this World
Heritage listed site. Accompanied by an expert
guide who will show you all of the main sights.
Lunch included.
Day 3 Depart Siem Reap Private transfer to Siem
Reap Airport.
Price from £215 per person, based on twin share.
3 DAY ANGKOR WAT PRIVATE TOUR
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ANGKOR WAT and PHNOM PENH Hotels
RAFFLES GRAND HOTEL D’ANGKOR
SHINTA MANI RESORT
VICTORIA ANGKOR RESORT & SPA
WHITE MANSION BOUTIQUE HOTEL PHNOM PENH
Since the early 1930s, a visit to the ancient temples of Angkor has been
synonymous with a stay at Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor. Located in the
heart of Siem Reap, a mere 8 kilometres away from the majestic Angkor
Wat, guests will appreciate the old-world Cambodian grandeur infused
with the best of modern comforts. Set within 15 acres of beautifully
landscaped French gardens and offering a fine array of bars and
restaurants and an award-winning spa.
Offer Receive a 10% discount when staying 4 nights or more. Year round.
Prices from £138 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
The Shinta Mani Resort is a newly renovated boutique property centrally
located in the leafy French Quarter between The Royal Gardens and
the Old Market Area just 15 minutes from Angkor Wat. The courtyard-
style resort’s 62 rooms & junior suite offer terrace or balcony views of
the stunning swimming pool and flourishing tropical gardens. Facilities
include an all-day dining café/restaurant. The spa is located at the
nearby Shinta Mani Club which is available to all guests at the Resort.
Offer Receive a 10% discount for stays of 4 nights or more. Year round.
Prices from £60 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
Within the four star Victoria Angkor Resort & Spa enjoy the comfort,
elegance and superb refinement of the French Art de Vivre in the
heart of Siem Reap. The Victoria Angkor Resort & Spa is located only 5
miles from the international airport, and 4 miles from the Angkor World
Heritage site. Rooms are stylish with pool views. Facilities include a
swimming pool, kids’ pool and club, spa, sauna, massage, jacuzzi,
library and choice of bars and restaurants.
Offer Receive a 10% discount for stays of 4 nights or more. Year round.
Prices from £62 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
This delightful hotel enjoys a central location within walking distance of
some of the attractions of Phnom Penh. Hotel facilities include a full-
service spa, restaurant, a 25m outdoor pool, café and rooftop terrace.
The White Mansion’s 30 rooms and suites are among the nicest and the
largest in Phnom Penh. They offer a secluded atmosphere with comfort
and elegance. Several with balcony, terrace, cityview or poolview. After a
busy day in tropical Phnom Penh guests will enjoy the refreshing pool.
Offer Receive a 10% discount when staying 4 nights or more. Year round.
Prices from £44 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
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BURMAA journey into Burma (Myanmar) is a journey into the Asia of days gone by. Visitors
to Burma find that their ventures off the well-trodden tourist trail are rewarded with
a wonderful, often touching travel experience rich in old-world atmosphere, natural
beauty, culture and memorable encounters with its engaging people.
Getting there There are no direct flights from the UK to Burma. However there are several good choices for connecting flights. Thai Airways offer flights to Yangon via Bangkok, with Malaysia Airlines via Kuala Lumpur and Singapore Airlines via Singapore.
Guide to the country Burma is a country of great beauty and diversity, dominated by lush mountain slopes covered with alpine forests in the far north and steamy jungles in the south; broad flat plains in central regions like Bagan; the famous Irrawaddy River and over 1199 miles of coastline boasting some of Asia’s most stunning beaches. Your travels in the country will take in some of the gorgeous river and mountain scenery in the country, the extraordinary temple studded plains of Bagan, the tranquil villages around lovely Inle Lake as well as the famous cities of Mandalay and Yangon. While these are the country’s biggest cities, they are relaxed, at times sleepy - a far cry from the huge size and frenetic pace of many other cities in Asia.
When to go Most of Burma lies within the Tropic Zone. It has a monsoon climate with three main seasons. The hottest period is between
February and May, with little or no rain and temperatures between 30°C and 35°C. The rainy season exists from May to October when the country receives most of its yearly rainfall and temperatures ranging from 25°C to 30°C. You can expect dry, cooler weather from October to February with temperatures at 20°C – 25°C but as cold as 5°C in higher altitudes or at Inle Lake.
Important to note British passport holders require a visa to visit Burma and a visa must be obtained before you depart the UK. It can be arranged up to 3 months before your scheduled arrival date into Burma. A full passport is required, valid for at least 6 months beyond the date of your departure from Burma. Once issued, the visa is valid for 3 months with a maximum stay in the country of 28 days. Assistance with obtaining a visa can be given by The Travel Visa Company. www.thetravelvisacompany.co.uk tel: 01270 250590. We strongly recommend you consult your preferred doctor
for the most up-to-date health advice at least one month prior to travel. The official language of Burma is Burmese. Basic English is widely spoken in urban areas and around popular tourist sites such as Bagan. English is well-understood and widely spoken by guides and hotel staff. The official currency is Kyat (MMK). US Dollars are widely accepted and you are advised to take US Dollars with you. Credit cards are not widely accepted and there are no ATMs.
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THE BEST OF BURMA 10 Day Private Tour
Price includes• 8 nights 4-star accommodation• 1 night river cruise• Breakfast daily, 1 lunch and 1 dinner• English-speaking guide• Air-conditioned vehicles• Flights within Burma
Day 1 Arrive Rangoon Arrive in Yangon where
you will be met by the guide at the airport and
transferred to the Sule Shangri-La Hotel for a
2 night stay. Superior room. Rest of the day at
leisure.
Day 2 Yangon City Tour Although Yangon is
no longer the official capital of the country it
is still one of the most dynamic and busiest
cities in the country. Today explore the many
cultural and historical highlights that can be
found in between the hustle and bustle of city
life. Drive to downtown for a photo stop around
the Town Hall and old streets lined with colonial
buildings. See the colossal reclining Buddha of
Chauk Htat Gyi Pagoda and take a stroll in the
park at Kandawgyi Lake. Then visit Botataung
Pagoda and jetty. In the afternoon, grab a
bargain at Scott Market (closed on Mondays
and public holidays). In the evening take in
the spectacular view of Shwedagon Pagoda
all lit up. This is the most important Buddhist
site in the country and is said to hold strands
of Buddha’s hair and other relics. The spire
reaches up to 110m and is encrusted with
diamonds and covered by gold plate.
Day 3 Yangon - Mandalay This morning,
transfer to the airport for your flight to
Mandalay. Be met on arrival and transferred
to the Mandalay Hill Hotel for a 1 night stay.
Superior Palace View room. Mandalay is the
last of the royal cities and is encompassed by
smaller capital cities dotted around its edges.
The centre piece of the city is the reconstructed
palace which is surrounded by a large moat.
Visit Mahamuni Pagoda with its statues created
in Buddha’s true likeness. See the largest book
in the world at Kuthodaw Pagoda, where stories
are etched upon 79 stone tablets and visit
Shwenandaw monastery. Afternoon free.
Day 4 RV Paukan Cruise Transfer to the jetty.
The embarkation time is 1000 hrs at Sagaing
jetty and cast off after half an hour. Welcome
Cocktail and briefing in the Saloon or Sundeck
followed by Lunch. Your Cabin is on the Main
Deck. Cruise all day long. In the late afternoon
stop at Yandabo, a village specialising in
Pot-Making. Visit the Pot workshops, the
monastery and the school. Moor overnight
near the village of Shwe Nann Tint.
Day 5 RV Paukan Cruise Early in the morning
continue downstream to Bagan. After
breakfast (if time permits) visit another typical
river village. Enjoy the sunrise near Bagan.
Passengers will disembark at Bagan Aye Yar
jetty by 0930 hrs. Disembark from the cruise
for sightseeing in Bagan, where the landscape
is a sea of stupas and temples. This ancient
city and important archaeological site once
Discover exotic Burma - cut off
from Western influence for so
long - on this journey through
its highlights; a land spiked
with temples, cities built on
river edges and whole towns
floating on a lake. Meet the
friendly people of this charming
land at markets, villages and
monasteries. Accommodation
is in mainly 4 star hotels. This
tour is on a private basis so
there are no set departure dates.
International flight prices are not
included in this itinerary.
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held more that 10,000 Buddhist temples,
pagodas and monasteries. Only 2,200 temples
survive. This afternoon explore some of these
temples and watch the sunset from atop
Shwesandaw Pagoda.
Day 6 Bagan Morning visit to Manuha Temple,
a small square shaped building that is steeped
in legend and later to Myinkaba village. See
its ancient temple adorned with paintings and
then pop into a local craft shop where lacquer
ware is expertly made by hand. Stroll through
the villages to see how the local community
lives. Stop at toddy palm plantations and huts
to see how palm wine is collected. Watch the
sunset over Bagan. Stay 1 night at the Thazin
Garden Hotel in a Deluxe room.
Day 7 Bagan - Inle Lake Your guide will
meet you at your hotel and transfer you to
the airport for your flight to Heho. On arrival
you’ll be transferred to Inle Lake. Take a
boat ride across the lake and admire the
unique one-legged rowing style as you pass
by floating gardens filled with fruits and
vegetables. Visit the Phaung Daw Oo Pagoda,
famed for its five small gold-gilded Buddha
images. See traditional handicrafts villages
and Nga Pe Kyaung Monastery better known
as the Jumping Cat Monastery. Although
the performing cats no longer remain, the
monastery houses an impressive collection of
Buddha images. Check in and stay 2 nights at
Inle Resort in a Garden Cottage.
Day 8 Inle Lake - Indein Morning visit to one
of the local markets then see craftsman at
work building wooden boats, creating Buddha
images made from the powder of dried flowers
and watch as workers hand roll Burmese
cigars! In the afternoon, cruise to Indein
nestled on the banks of the lake. The village is
famous for its overgrown and mystifying 16th
century stupas as well its handicrafts.
Day 9 Inle Lake - Yangon This morning,
transfer to Heho airport for the flight to
Yangon. Be met on arrival and privately
transferred to The Sule Shangri-La Hotel for a
1 night stay in a Superior room.
Day 10 Yangon departure Transfer to the
airport for your flight departure.
Price from £1745 per person, twin share.
• Upgrade to 5 star Superior hotels for a
supplement of £240 per person.
4 DAY BEACH EXTENSIONAdd a 3 night stay at the beautiful beaches of
Ngapali. This makes an ideal end to your tour
of Burma. The nearest airport is Thandwe and
we can arrange flights from Heho (Inle Lake)
or from Yangon.
Price includes
• Roundtrip flights from Yangon • 3 nights Amazing Ngapali Resort • Private airport transfers
Prices from £499 per person, based on twin
share.
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BURMA Hotels
THAZIN GARDEN HOTEL BAGAN
SULE SHANGRI-LA, YANGON
The Thazin Garden Hotel Bagan is located on the high plain surrounded
with ancient pagodas and ruins. Due to this elevated position guests can
enjoy wonderful scenes of hilly ridges and green plains interspersed with
golden Pagodas. Accommodation is in 50 Garden View Deluxe rooms
and 17 Pagoda View Deluxe rooms. Facilities include a swimming pool,
library, spa, billiards and choice of restaurants. Relax in the beautiful,
spacious gardens.
Offer Receive a 10% discount when staying 5 nights or more.
Prices from £49 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
Sule Shangri-La, Yangon, is conveniently located in downtown Yangon
near major tourist attractions, such as the Bogyoke Market (Scott
Market), Sule Pagoda, China Town and colonial buildings. Just a
10-minute drive from Shwedagon Pagoda. Facilities include an outdoor
pool, fitness centre, Jacuzzi, sauna, choice of 2 restaurants, bar and
pool bar. From the windows of your spacious room, you look out over
historic Yangon at the river, lush tropical trees and shining pagodas.
Offer 10% discount when staying 5 nights or more. Year round.
Prices from £71 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
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CHATRIUM HOTEL ROYAL LAKE YANGON
Chatrium Hotel Royal Lake Yangon shines as one of the city’s topmost
hotels for pure luxury and contemporary comfort. Situated among lush
greenery and beside the famous Kandawgyi Lake, views are simply
spectacular. Every guestroom is spaciously designed and furnished, with
breathtaking views of Shwedagon Pagoda. Choose from six restaurants
and bars for delicious dining, relax by the beach-styled swimming pool,
work-out at the fitness centre and rejuvenate in the Spa.
Offer Receive a 10% discount for stays of 5 nights or more. Year round.
Prices from £74 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
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THE HOTEL@THARABAR GATE
Surrounded by more than 4000 ancient temples and Pagodas, you will
be enchanted by the breathtaking views. The Hotel @ Tharabar Gate is
within 5 minutes walking distance to the spectacular Ananda Temple
known as ‘The Jewel of Bagan’. The Hotel offers 83 luxury rooms
including 4 Suites. The Hotel offers 2 dining choices, one in the Tropical
Garden and as an alternative the semi-open Main Restaurant. The hotel
also features a pool side bar to relax with a cool cocktail or drinks of your
choice. Facilities include a spa and Jacuzzi.
Offer Receive a 10% discount for stays of 5 nights or more.
Prices from £49 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
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BURMA Hotels and CRUISES
INLE PRINCESS RESORT
The Inle Princess Resort has a superb location on the banks of Inle
Lake offering wonderful lake, mountain and rice paddy views. Located
next to a village, this charming property features 45 traditional chalets.
For the accommodation 27 chalets are Lake Front View, 8 offer Private
Lake & Garden Views and 10 have Mountain Views. Each Chalet has
a large front-facing glass window which lets in great natural light and
provides fantastic views of the surrounding scenery. Facilities include a
restaurant, bar with a terrace to enjoy the lake views, a spa and a library.
Offer 10% discount when staying 4 nights or more. Year round.
Prices from £71 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
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INLE RESORT & SPA
Magnificently located on the shores of Inle Lake, this unique Boutique
Eco-Resort & Spa is one of the finest resorts in this spectacular tourist
destination. Custom built and designed with the flair of traditional native
style architecture, the Inle Resort & Spa is distinguished by its signature
roof, prominent on the Lake; a welcome beacon to its guests. Rooms are
bright and feature wooden furnishings. Guests can enjoy the garden spa
or a drink at the bar facing the water.
Offer Receive a 10% discount for stays of 5 nights or more.
Prices from £55 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
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2 & 3 DAY RIVER CRUISES RV PAUKAN
The RV Paukan offers 1 and 2 night cruises between Mandalay
and Bagan. This is a wonderful way for travellers to discover
the life of the mighty Irrawaddy River. The lovely Paukan is a
boutique hotel on the river, beautifully furnished with a unique
combination of modern and traditional motifs. The timber-
walled cabins are furnished with colonial style cupboards,
dresser and doors while the ceiling is traditional Myanmar. The
single or double beds are proper and comfortable ones and
not mere bunks, enough room for 55 passengers who will be
looked after by a 30-member crew. For luxury-living, Paukan
has suites, deluxe or superior cabins as well as singles for guest
or guides. There are two massage rooms on the lower deck
offering traditional Myanmar massage designed to give soothing
relaxation. The sun deck has a stage for cultural performances,
and a bar and lounge for relaxation and fun. The upper deck
has a lecture/ movie room. Meals in the dining room on the main
deck will include both East and West cuisine, and dinner menus
of delicious dishes. Vegetarian meals can be prepared when
informed in advance. The price is inclusive of transfer between
the ship and airport, all meals, sightseeing tours and entrance
fees at monuments. Mandalay to Bagan cruises are 1 night.
Bagan to Mandalay are 2 nights.
Prices from £310 per person, based on twin share.
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124 inspiredbyasia.co.ukINDOCHINA
BURMA RIVER CRUISES
Day 1 Mandalay Morning domestic flight
from Yangon to Mandalay. After a short visit to
Sagaing Hills to enjoy the panoramic views over
the Ayeyarwaddy River, transfer to the Road
To Mandalay berthed on the Ayeyarwady River
at Shwe Kyet Yet village. Following a welcome
meeting, the ship will set sail for Mandalay.
After lunch on board, transfer to shore by local
boat for a guided tour of the key sights of this
fabled city, regarded as the centre of Burmese
culture and Buddhist learning. Return to
Belmond Road To Mandalay for dinner and
local entertainment in the evening.
Day 2 Burmese Village & Ava Join an early
morning walking tour of Shwe Kyet Yet village
which will include alms-giving to the monks
by the ship’s crew. Enjoy breakfast while
the ship sails down to the ancient capital
of Ava. Disembark for a tour by traditional
horse and cart including a visit to an ancient
teak monastic school and the ruins of King
Bagyidaw’s palace. The rest of the day is spent
relaxing on board observing the local river life
from the top deck. Afternoon tea is served and
an on-board guide lectures on local places and
customs. A casual cocktail party is followed by
dinner on board.
Day 3 Bagan The river cruiser arrives at Bagan
where over 2,000 temples and pagodas are
scattered on an awe-inspiring plain beside the
river. A guided orientation tour introduces you
to the most important temples. After lunch you
have the opportunity to rejoin the guide and
visit the inside of some of the more significant
pagodas. Alternatively, you can hire a bicycle or
horse-drawn cart (with driver) and explore this
fascinating area on your own. Late afternoon
your guide takes you to watch the breathtaking
vista of the sun setting over the plain. Dinner
and local entertainment on board.
Day 4 Bagan After an early breakfast you are
transferred to Bagan airport for your onward
flight.
Prices from £820 per person, based on twin
share.
Experience the enchanting
sights, scents and sounds of
the Irrawaddy or Chindwin
Rivers aboard the Belmond
Road to Mandalay (43 cabins)
or the Belmond Orcaella (25
cabins). Cruise itineraries vary
from 2 to 12 nights. Cabin
accommodation is spacious, air-
conditioned and large windows
that offer stunning river views.
On board you’ll enjoy a top deck
pool and bar and a gourmet
restaurant. Flights from Yangon
and sightseeing excursions are
included.
HIGHLIGHTS OF MYANMAR 3 NIGHT CRUISE
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Day 1 Flight from Yangon Morning board
Belmond Orcaella at Bagan and enjoy a
delicious lunch. Later, disembark for a guided
tour of the ancient city and witness the
unforgettable sunset over the Bagan plain.
Day 2 Bagan and Salay Start the day with
a shopping tour in Bagan and a visit to the
gilded Shwezigon Pagoda. You may also
wish to arrange a tour of Old Bagan by horse
cart or bicycle. In the afternoon, set sail
towards Salay where you can visit the Wooden
Monastery and an impressive 20ft Buddha
made of straw lacquer.
Day 3 Magwe and Min Hla Visit the port town
of Magwe and its famous Myathalon Pagoda,
devotees come from miles around to join in
religious festivals. Continue to Min Hla and for
a late afternoon visit to the local fort, the site
of a great battle during the second Anglo-
Burmese War.
Day 4 Sri Ksetra Longyi tying and Thanakha
wearing demonstration on the Observation
Deck. Afternoon visit by bus to the ancient
city Sri Ksetra (‘Fabulous City’) with its unique
cylindrical shaped stone stupas. Dating back
to the 5th-9th century, this city flourished
during the rule of the Phyu. During the 1890’s
Pyay was a booming trade town, and there is
still much activity in and around the docks.
Next, enjoy a city tour, visit the impressive
Shwe-san-daw Pagoda and the imposing
10-storey Sitting Buddha watching over this
important site.
Day 5 Shwe Taung Set out by bus on a
morning excursion to Shwe Taung town and
visit Shwe Myat Mhan Pagoda to see the only
‘bespectacled’ Buddha in Myanmar (thought
to have curing powers). On the way back,
discover local industry with a visit to a local
sweets confectioner and a bamboo shoot
pickle maker. Return to Belmond Orcaella
and depart from Pyay. Spend the afternoon
relaxing on board and taking in the scenery.
Day 6 Zalon and Danuphyu Disembark at the
small port of Zalon. Take a tuk tuk along the
main street, lined with stunning colonial-style
wooden houses and large tropical gardens.
Arrive at the Pyi Taw Pyan Pagoda. Continue
to another little-visited town called Danuphyu.
This is where the revered General Maha
Bandula led a Burmese defensive against the
British troops during the Anglo-Burmese War.
Day 7 Yangon Spend the morning relaxing on
the deck as you make your way to Yangon.
Join an optional excursion; choose between
shopping in Yangon or a heritage tour.
Day 8 Disembark Disembark in the late
morning for your onward travel arrangements.
Prices from £3560 per person based on twin
share.
Note this cruise is also available as an 8 night
cruise with flight from Yangon and cruising
from Mandalay to Bagan.
Other cruise itineraries We can also offer the
12 night Mandalay-Chindwin-Bagan cruise
and vv. And the 11 night Mandalay-Bhamo-
Bagan cruise and vv.
THE AYEYARWADY EXPERIENCE 7 NIGHT CRUISE
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CHINAChina is a country of huge contrast with big exciting cities such as Beijing and
Shanghai, rural towns and villages where old China seems to have carried on
regardless. From green paddy fields and bamboo forests to gorges and
limestone peaks China is a fascinating destination for all travellers.
Getting there There are direct flights to Beijing and Shanghai from the UK. All of China’s main cities are served by Cathay Pacific Airways via Hong Kong with connecting flights on Dragonair. The flying time is 11 hours.
Guide to the country Beijing is a great starting point for your China experience. A dynamic and growing city, it offers a wealth of historical attractions such as the impressive Great Wall of China, the labyrinthine Forbidden City and the magnificent Temple of Heaven. A stroll along Shanghai’s famous riverfront Bund shows the rapid pace at which this city is moving. Contrast the old-style Shanghai of Noel Coward with the architecture of modern China and pay a visit to the Water Village at Zhjiajiao near Shanghai. Away from the cities visit the Yangtze and Li Rivers for incredible gorge scenery and enjoy the views on a Three Gorges cruise, see the beautiful limestone peaks of Guilin and Yangshuo that seem to rise up out of the mist and take time to experience the Chinese countryside with a walk or cycle ride. See the famous Terracotta Warriors at Xian, one of the country’s great sights. It is possible to travel around China independently, however we would recommend that you consider
pre-booking an escorted tour; the English-speaking guide will be able to give you so much more background to what you are seeing and will cover all the arrangements such as transport and accommodation.
When to go China is a large country with a wide range of climatic conditions. Spring (April to May) or autumn (September to October) are good months for travelling in comfort. Summer is from June to August and is hot throughout the country and particularly humid in the south.This is also the period that experiences the most rain. Winter (November to March) sees very cold conditions (below freezing) in Beijing and the north, but comparatively mild in the south.
Important to note British passport holders must have a passport valid for six months from
the last date of the trip. A visa is required and must be obtained well in advance from the Chinese embassy. Or call The Travel Visa Company on 01270 250 590. The currency is Renminbi. For vaccination requirements please contact your local doctor.
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130 inspiredbyasia.co.ukCHINA
HIGHLIGHTS OF CHINA 10 Day Small Group Tour
Price includes• 9 nights 4-star hotel accommodation• Breakfast daily, 1 lunch and 1 dinner• 1 internal flight • Transport in air-conditioned vehicles• Entrance fees• Western tour leader based on a minimum of 7 travellers• Local English-speaking guides• Return transfers
Days 1-3 Shanghai On arrival in Shanghai,
transfer to your hotel. Admire the Art Deco
streetscapes of the trendy Bund, and roam
the peaceful Yu Garden and the old streets of
Shanghai beyond. Discover the lively Chinese
Quarter then witness the awe-inspiring feats of
the famed Shanghai acrobats as they deliver
an entertaining and jaw-dropping show. Hotel:
Park Hotel
Days 4-6 Xian Fly to Xian, China’s oldest
city which was once considered to be one
of the most culturally important in the world.
Today, Xian is a melting pot of cultures, rich
in sights and experiences. Meander through
the fascinating Muslim Quarter and see the
Big Goose Pagoda, which was built in 652 to
house the Buddhist scriptures brought back
from India. Take the chance to indulge in a
sumptuous dumpling banquet, a regional
speciality of Xian. Marvel at the intricate detail
of the countless iconic Terracotta Warriors.
These life-sized warriors and horses were
unearthed after 2,000 years, and are one of
the most important archaeological discoveries
of the 20th century. Board a high speed train
to Beijing, and transfer to your hotel on arrival.
Hotel: Mercure on Renmin Square, Novotel
Beijing Xinqiao
Days 7-10 Beijing The incredible expanse
of Tiananmen Square is breathtaking as
you traverse it by foot on your way to the
remarkable Forbidden City. Uncover one
of Beijing’s few remaining hutongs, or
backstreets, when you lunch in a local home
and take an exciting rickshaw ride. See the
city’s famous Drum Tower, the lovely temple
of Heaven, the huge model of China’s capital
city at the Beijing Planning Exhibition Hall
and the splendid Summer Palace. Travel to
Mutianyu for your chance to wander a lesser
visited section of the magnificent Great Wall
of China. At night, enjoy a farewell dinner with
your fellow travellers. On your last day, enjoy
free time until your departure transfer. Hotel:
Novotel Beijing Xinqiao
Prices from £1560 per person based on twin
share.
• Upgrade to 5-star accommodation: price on
request.
The contrasts in China are both
striking and enthralling. Stroll
amongst the shining skyscrapers
in Shanghai and marvel at
Terracotta Warriors and the
melting pot of cultures in Xian.
Unveil a complex history in
Beijing and discover the culture
in a visit to a local hutong home
for lunch. Wander the vast
Tiananmen Square, and walk the
ancient Great Wall. Maximum
group size is 16. Please call for
departure dates. International
flights are not included.
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131INSPIRED BY ASIA CHINA
YANGTZE & BEYOND 18 Day Small Group Tour
Price includes• 14 nights 4-star hotel accommodation• 3 nights cruise accommodation• Breakfast daily, 3 lunches and 3 dinners• 3 internal flights • Transport in air-conditioned vehicles• entrance fees• Western tour leader based on a minimum of 7 travellers• Local English-speaking guides• Return transfers
Days 1-4 Beijing Transfer to your hotel
to meet your tour leader for a welcome
drink. Walk through Tiananmen Square and
the Forbidden City. Plunge into the city’s
traditional back streets, for lunch in a local
home and a rickshaw ride. See the beating
of the drums ceremony at the Drum Tower,
and take the chance to feast on Peking
Duck. Travel to Mutianyu to walk on the Great
Wall with fewer tourists than other sites,
and perhaps browse the Wangfujing Night
Markets. Explore the impressive Temple of
Heaven and the Summer Palace. Board
a high speed train to Xian, and transfer to
your hotel on arrival. Hotels: Novotel Beijing
Xinqiao, Mercure on Renmin Square
Days 5-6 Xian In Xian, marvel at the life-size
Army of Terracotta Warriors, uncover the
vibrant Muslim Quarter and explore the holy
Big Goose Pagoda. You also have the chance
to indulge in a sumptuous dumpling banquet.
Hotel: Mercure on Renmin Square
Days 7-8 Guilin and Longsheng A short flight
ends in beautiful Guilin. Climb the stone
steps to the top of Fubo Hill for panoramic
views across the city’s rooftops and limestone
mountains beyond then head further afield
to explore an ancient town and a small tea
plantation. A day trip to Longsheng reveals a
local White Yao village for a taste of traditional
village life. Here, take a short hike and admire
the spectacular rice terraces known as the
Dragon’s Backbone. Hotel: Guilin Universal
Days 9-10 Yangshuo Cruise the Li River and
soak up the limestone karst scenery. Wander
the cobbled streets of Yangshuo and cycle
delightful backroads of local villages. Free
time to take in an evening show or browse the
markets. Hotel: Yangshuo New Century Hotel
Days 11-13 Chongqing and Yangtze River Fly to Chongqing and see the Giant Pandas
at the local zoo, before you begin your
cruise down the mighty Yangtze River to
view the scenery from your private balcony.
Float passed shiny new cities, remnants of
towns, and the amazing Three Gorges. Shore
excursions include a visit to the Three Gorges
Dam site and a cruise up the Daning River.
Note Yangtze cruise ships and itineraries
are subject to change.Hotel: Victoria Jenna
(Cruise Ship), Main Deck Superior
Days 14-18 Shanghai and Zhujiajiao Fly to
Shanghai. Admire the gorgeous, Art Deco
streetscapes of the Bund. A day trip to the
ancient water town of Zhujiajiao unveils lovely
old architecture and bridges, perched along
canals. Later, see the breathtaking Shanghai
acrobats in action. Visit the serene Yu Garden
before roaming the backstreets in the Chinese
Quarter. Enjoy a farewell dinner that evening.
On your last day, enjoy free time before your
departure transfer. Hotel: Park Hotel
Prices from £3015 per person based
on twin share. Upgrade to 5-star hotel
accommodation: prices on request.
China has so much to discover,
from the thronging cities of
Shanghai and Beijing to the
cobbled streets of Yangshuo.
Icons such as the Terracotta
Warriors and Great Wall are not
to be missed, and a sojourn into
backstreets and local homes
is a real treat. A cruise along
the Yangtze reveals soaring
mountains and tranquil rivers.
Maximum group size of 16.
Departure dates on request.
International flights are not
included.
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132 inspiredbyasia.co.ukCHINA
HONG KONG
Travel Hong Kong receives
direct fl ights from around the
world. There is a dedicated rail
link, the Airport Express that
offers the quickest route to the
city in just 24 minutes. The MTR
system offers connections to all
parts of the city. We can arrange
for you to be met on arrival at
Hong Kong International Airport
and transferred privately to your
chosen accommodation. From
£40.
Attractions Enjoy fantastic views
of the Hong Kong skyline from
Victoria Peak, reached via the
Peak Tram. Shop in the vibrant,
neon-lit streets of Kowloon, or
the smart shopping centres in
Causeway Bay. Visit the fi shing
village of Aberdeen for Stanley
Market. Enjoy a ride on the Star
Ferry that links Kowloon with
Hong Kong Island. Take the
cable-car to outlying Lantau
Island, one of 260 outlying
islands, for 360° views.
When to go November to
February is a good time to
visit, when humidity is at its
lowest with little rainfall and
generally sunny weather. The
rainy season tends to be April
to June and the hottest months
are July to September when the
temperature can reach 35°C.
Hong Kong has 5000 years of Chinese
culture and only 150 years of colonial
rule. The gateway to China, Hong Kong
has lost none of its appeal since the hand
over in 1997. Hong Kong Island, the birth
place of the former British colony offers a
spectacular skyline, while a Star Ferry ride
across the magnifi cent harbour brings you
to vibrant Kowloon, offering a fascinating
mix of streets, malls and markets.
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133INSPIRED BY ASIA CHINA
HONG KONG Hotels
HARBOUR GRAND HONG KONG
METROPARK HOTEL CAUSEWAY BAY
KOWLOON SHANGRI-LA, HONG KONG
HARBOUR GRAND KOWLOON
The Harbour Grand Hotel, part of the Harbour Plaza Group, occupies
a superb location on Hong Hong Island, close to Causeway Bay and
offering some of the best, unobstructed harbour views in Hong Kong.
Wanchai and Central are nearby and with an MTR station a few minutes’
walk away; guests have easy access to the rest of the city. All 828 rooms
offer superb harbour views. Facilities include a large outdoor heated pool,
kid’s pool, jacuzzi, gym, a spa, bars and a great choice of restaurants.
Offer Receive 4 nights for the price of 3. Dates vary, call for details.
Prices from £70 per person per night, based on room only.
Floor-to-ceiling windows feature throughout the 33 storey Metropark
Hotel, providing magnifi cent views of the famous Victoria Harbour and
Park. Located in Causeway Bay, one of Hong Kong’s leading shopping
and entertainment districts. Facilities include an impressive rooftop
outdoor pool & jacuzzi (closed in Jan and Feb), sauna, gym, restaurant
and bar. The nearest MTR station is a two-minute walk from the hotel and
there is also a free scheduled hotel shuttle bus to Causeway Bay.
Offer Receive free breakfast daily for 3 nights stay. Dates vary.
Prices from £46 per person per night, based on room only.
The award-winning Kowloon Shangri-La is conveniently situated in the
Tsimshatsui East shopping and entertainment district overlooking the
world famous Victoria Harbour. The rooms and suites are among the most
spacious in Hong Kong, featuring a fl oor-to-ceiling bay window with views
of the city or harbour. Upgrade to the Horizon Club and benefi t from club
access and free breakfast daily. Facilities include 7 restaurants, bar and
lounge, gym, indoor swimming pool, whirlpool and sauna.
Offer Free room upgrade for 4 night stays. Dates vary, call for details.
Prices from £134 per person per night, based on room only.
The Harbour Grand Kowloon enjoys one of the most unique locations in
the city, right on the Kowloon waterfront, just a 5 minute drive from the
MTR station and bustling Tsimshatsui by free hotel shuttle bus. Guests
have a choice of courtview or the highly recommended harbourview
rooms. Upgrade to a club room for club lounge access and free breakfast.
Facilities include a superb rooftop pool, whirlpool, sauna, steam room,
fi tness centre, bar and a choice of six renowned restaurants.
Offer Free room upgrade for 3 night stays. Dates vary, call for details.
Prices £75 per person per night, based on room only.
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SINGAPORE134
SINGAPORE
Singapore is about as westernised as Asia
gets. A sparkling, clean city that retains
a grip on tradition, Singapore offers some
of the world’s best shopping and hotels,
along with some fantastic cuisine.
Be sure to check out Chinatown, Boat
Quay and Little India. Sentosa is
Singapore’s own island resort getaway.
Located just a 15-minute drive from the
city, it is accessible by cable car, taxi or
pre-booked transfer.
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135INSPIRED BY ASIA SINGAPORE
SINGAPORE Hotels
SHANGRI-LA HOTEL, SINGAPORE
NAUMI HOTEL THE SWISSOTEL THE STAMFORD
PARK HOTEL CLARKE QUAY
Consistently ranked as one of the top luxury hotels in Asia, Shangri-La
Hotel, Singapore sits amidst 15 acres of lush gardens. It is a rarity to
have such space in the city, just a fi ve-minute stroll from Orchard Road.
There are 747 luxury rooms and suites in three distinctive wings; the
contemporary Tower Wing, the tropical Garden Wing (pictured) and the
exclusive Valley Wing. Facilities include an outdoor pool, 24hr gym, spa,
sauna and choice of restaurants.
Offer Receive 4 nights for the price of 3. Offer dates vary, call for details.
Prices from £130 per person per night, based on room only.
Naumi Hotel is an intimate retreat in Singapore featuring 73 elegantly-
appointed rooms. Naumi Hotel is a state-of-the-art boutique hotel set in
the heart of the Singapore’s Central Business District and a myriad of
inner-city shopping centres. If you fancy tranquillity and sheer indulgence
amidst designer dwellings, you can expect to create unforgettable
memories at Naumi Hotel, Singapore’s best kept secret. Facilities include
a superb rooftop pool, an all-day dining restaurant, bar and fi tness centre.
Offer Receive a 10% discount when staying 5 nights or more.
Prices from £119 per person per night including breakfast daily.
The luxury Swissotel The Stamford, one of the tallest hotels in Southeast
Asia, is located in the heart of the city, amidst world-class shopping,
entertainment and the Singapore central business district. Facilities
include 11 restaurants and fi ve bars, two outdoor swimming pools, six
tennis courts, a spa and a state of the art fi tness club. Classic rooms are
spacious and can accommodation up to 2 adults and 2 children in two
double beds. All rooms enjoy superb city views.
Offer Bonus night offers. Dates vary call for details.
Prices from £89 per person per night, based on room only.
Park Hotel Clarke Quay, with its classic architecture is a tropical retreat in
the heart of the cosmopolitan city. Facing the Singapore River, Park Hotel
Clarke Quay’s 336 guestrooms and suites provide guests with sweeping
views of the city skyline and the country’s famous historic sea-trading
artery. Facilities include a 25 metre outdoor pool, Jacuzzi, a spectacular
deck and bar with cabana style pavilions and restaurant. Robertson Quay
offers an array of bars and restaurants all within easy walking distance.
Offer Receive 3 nights for the price of 2. Offer dates vary call for details.
Prices from £85 per person per night, based on room only.
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JAPAN
JAPAN
136
Japan is a country of many contrasts,
where the very latest in high-tech vies
with age-old traditions. Experience the
bustling city of Tokyo, the traditional
imperial city of Kyoto, iconic Mount
Fuji and the beautiful countryside.
It’s a delightful destination that’s full
of surprises.
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137INSPIRED BY ASIA JAPAN
HIGHLIGHTS OF JAPAN 10 Day Small Group Tour
Price includes• 8 nights hotel accommodation• 1 night Ryokan accommodation• Breakfast daily and 2 dinners• 6 day trains• Transport in air-conditioned vehicles• Entrance fees• Luggage transport• Western tour leader based on a minimum of 7 travellers• Local English-speaking guides• Return transfers (on first and last day of tour only)
Days 1-3 Tokyo & Hakone Be met at the
airport on your arrival in Tokyo. A carefully
crafted walking tour immerses you in the
tantalizing streets of Tokyo. Look down on the
city from the Tokyo Tower and take a stunning
river cruise to Asakusa. After an early morning
trip to the massive Tsukiji Fish Market, travel
by train to Hakone, a picturesque town
famous for its hot springs and natural beauty.
From your base at a Japanese-style inn, cruise
on Lake Ashi-no for a chance to spot majestic
Mount Fuji. Hotels: Grand Prince Hotel
Takanawa, Hakone Yumoto Hotel
Days 4-5 Takayama A thrilling ride on the
Shinkansen (bullet train) brings you to Nagoya
and then on to Takayama. Set in the remote
mountains of the Hida Region, Takayama
is renowned for its skilful artisans and sake
breweries. Explore the Old Town on foot,
stopping at some of the traditional old houses
and delightful local museums and wander a
vibrant morning market. Gain an insight in to
the rich history of the area at the Takayama
History & Art Museum before enjoying an
afternoon at leisure. Hotel: Best Western Hotel
Takayama
Days 6- 10 Kyoto and Hiroshima Relish
some free time to explore Takayama before
taking the Shinkansen to Kyoto, filled with
shrines and temples, countless teahouses
and a thriving geisha culture. Explore the
historic Gion region then amble amongst the
city’s lovely gardens. Be enlightened at the
Buddhist Kiyomizudera Temple and gaze
upon the gorgeous Golden Pavilion. Enjoy
an exclusive Maiko dinner and performance
in Kyoto, and learn about the lives of the
apprentice Geishas. Take a day trip to
reinvented Hiroshima to visit the informative
Bomb Museum, Peace Memorial and
Miyajima Island. Enjoy a free day in Kyoto on
day 9 or perhaps visit Nara, which is close
to Kyoto. Nara boasts historic World Heritage
listed temples and a tranquil Deer Park.
Enjoy free time on your last day before a train
transfer to the airport. Hotel: Mitsui Garden
Hotel Kyoto Sanjo
Prices from £3130 per person based on twin
share.
Experience the many faces of
Japan, from dazzling streets
in Tokyo to antique teahouses
in Kyoto. Speed through the
countryside on the bullet train
and stay in a traditional inn
near Mount Fuji. Delight in a
tea ceremony and walk the
absorbing streets of Takayama.
Discover the thriving geisha
culture and take a touching
trip to Hiroshima. Leave with a
heartfelt understanding of this
mysterious land. Maximum
group size of 16. Departure
dates on request. International
flights are not included.
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138 inspiredbyasia.co.uk
Inspired by Asia is happy to
recommend The Travel Visa
Company Ltd, one of the UK’s
top visa specialists. Their staff
maintain good relations with
the various Embassies, High
Commissions and Consulates
located in London, Birmingham
and Manchester.
What’s more, because they use
their own couriers to collect the
visas when they are ready, the
Travel Visa Company Ltd is able
to closely track the progress of
their clients’ visa applications
to provide a friendly and
personalised service.
For Thailand, Malaysia, and Japan British
passport holders do not require a visa for
these destinations, unless staying for more
than 30 days.
Laos British passport holders must obtain
the visa on arrival. This can be done at both
Vientiane and Luang Prabang Airports as well
as the main border crossings. A tourist visa
will be valid for 30 days and costs US$35.
Two passport-sized photographs are also
required.
Vietnam British Citizen passport holders
making a single entry into Vietnam for up to
15 days (for all purposes) are exempt from
requiring a visa to travel. The visa exemption
period will start from 1 July 2015 and end on
30 June 2016. To qualify for this exemption
your passport must have a minimum of 6
months validity left and you must hold proof
of onward or return fl ights. Those travelling
to Vietnam for stays of more than 15 days
or for multiple entries will still require a
visa to enter. Please contact the Visa Travel
Company for the very latest information.
Cambodia British passport holders require a
visa to visit Cambodia, which can be obtained
on arrival or before you travel. Visas take 5
working days to issue in Embassy, cost £25
and the Travel Visa Company service charge
is £35. You can apply for a Cambodian
visa up to 3 months before you travel.
Once issued, the visa is valid for 3 months
with a maximum stay in the country of 30
days. Please allow 10-15 working days total
processing time.
China British passport holders require
a visa to visit China and a visa must be
obtained before you depart the UK. Visas
take 4 working days to issue in the Embassy.
Standard visas cost £96 and The Travel Visa
Company charge is £32. You can apply for a
China visa up to 3 months before you travel.
Once issued the visa is valid for 3 months
with a maximum stay in the country of 30
days. Please allow 10-15 working days total
processing time.
Burma British passport holders require a visa
to visit Burma and a visa must be obtained
before you depart the UK. It can be arranged
up to 3 months before your scheduled arrival
date into Burma. A full passport is required,
valid for 6 months beyond the date of your
departure from Burma. Once issued, the visa
is valid for 3 months with a maximum stay
of 28 days in the country. A visa is £14, with
The Travel Visa Company service charge an
additional £46.50.
Important to notePlease ensure your passport has at least six
months validity remaining from the return
date of your trip.
Embassy fees can vary, depending on the
type and validity of the visa requested. All
service charges quoted are excluding VAT
and correct at the time of publishing.
Please note these prices should be used as
a guide only. Please contact the Visa Travel
Company for the very latest prices and visa
requirements.
The Travel Visa Companycall 01270 250 590 or visit:
www.thetravelvisacompany.co.uk
YOUR VISA REQUIREMENTS
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Best Tour Operator 2014as voted by AITO Independent Travel Agents
T H E B E S T O F T H E FA R E A S T TA I L O R M A D E
2 Grove Park Court, Harrogate, North Yorkshire HG1 4DP
Telephone 01423 565111 • www.inspiredbyasia.co.uk
Brochure designed by Andrew Bogle. Printed by Focus All Media.
ABTA No. Y1862 / V8887
Your contract is with Inspired By Asia, a division of The Curzon Corporation Ltd, a member of ABTA.
1. Your Booking ContractWhen you make a booking you guarantee that you have the authority to accept and do accept on behalf of your party the terms of these booking conditions. A contract will exist as soon as we issue our confi rmation invoice. This contract is made on the terms of these booking conditions, which are governed by English Law, and the jurisdiction of the English Courts. You may however, choose the law and jurisdiction of Scotland or Northern Ireland if you wish to do so.
2. Your Financial ProtectionWe provide full fi nancial protection for our package holidays. When you buy an ATOL protected air holiday package from us you will receive a Confi rmation Invoice and an ATOL Certifi cate from us (or via our authorised agent through which you booked) confi rming your arrangements and your protection under our Air Travel Organiser’s Licence number 2949. In the unlikely event of our insolvency, the CAA will ensure that you are not stranded abroad and will arrange to refund any money you have paid to us for an advance booking. For further information visit the ATOL website at www.atol.org.uk When you buy a package holiday that doesn’t include a fl ight, protection is provided by way of a bond held by ABTA, the Travel Association (ABTA Y1862). If you book arrangements other than a package from this brochure, your monies are protected by way of a bond held by ABTA.
3. ABTAWe are a Member of ABTA, membership number Y1862. We are obliged to maintain a high standard of service to you by ABTA’s Code of Conduct. We can also offer you an arbitration scheme for the resolution of disputes arising out of, or in connection with this contract. The arbitration scheme is arranged by ABTA and administered independently. It provides for a simple and inexpensive method of arbitration on documents alone with restricted liability on you in respect of costs. The scheme does not apply to claims for an amount greater than £5,000 per person. There is also a limit of £25,000 per booking. Neither does it apply to claims which are solely in respect of physical injury or illness or their consequences. The scheme can however deal with compensation claims which include an element of minor injury or illness subject to a limit of £1,500 on the amount the arbitrator can award per person in respect of this element. Your request for arbitration must be received by ABTA within eighteen months of the date of return from holiday. Outside this time limit arbitration under the Scheme may still be available if we agree, but the ABTA Code does not require such agreement. For injury and illness claims, you can request the ABTA Mediation Procedure and we have the option to agree to mediation Further information on the Code and ABTA’s assistance in resolving disputes can be found on www.abta.com
4. Your Booking PriceWe reserve the right to alter the prices shown in the brochure. You will be advised of the current price of the arrangements that you wish to book before your contract is confi rmed. When you make your booking you must pay a deposit of £300 per person or 10 percent of the holiday cost (whichever is the greater). For certain arrangements, especially extended overland tours, higher deposits may be required and you will be notifi ed at the time of booking. The balance of the price of your travel arrangements must be paid at least 10 weeks before your departure date. If the deposit and/or balance is not paid in time, we shall cancel your travel arrangements. If the balance is not paid in time we shall retain your deposit. All monies you pay to the travel agent are held by him on our behalf at all times. Prices in the brochure were calculated using the following exchange rates as at 12 August 2015: THB 55.00, MYR 6.20, USD 1.55, SGD 2.20, HKD 12.00. Changes in transportation costs, including the cost of fuel, dues, taxes or fees chargeable for services such as landing taxes or embarkation or disembarkation fees at ports and airports and exchange rates mean that the price of your travel arrangements may change after you have booked. However there will be no change within 30 days of your departure. We will absorb and you will not be charged for any increase equivalent to 2% of the price of your travel arrangements, which excludes any amendment charges. You will be charged for the amount over and above that. If this means that you have to pay an increase of more than 10% of the price of your travel arrangements, you will have the option of accepting a change to another holiday if we are able to offer one (if this is of equivalent or higher quality you will not have to pay more but if it is of lower quality you will be refunded the difference in price), or cancelling and receiving a full refund of all monies paid, except for any amendment charges. Should you decide to cancel for this reason, you must exercise your right to do so within 14 days from the issue date printed on your fi nal invoice. Should the price of your arrangements go down due to the changes mentioned above, by more than 2% of the total cost, then any refund due will be paid to you. However, please note that travel arrangements are not always purchased in local currency and some apparent changes have no impact on the price of your travel due to contractual and other protection in place.
5. If You Change Your BookingIf, after our confi rmation invoice has been issued, you wish to change your travel arrangements in any way, for example your chosen departure date or accommodation, we will do our utmost to make these changes but it may not always be possible. Any request for changes to be made must be in writing from the person who made the booking or your travel agent. You will be asked to pay an administration charge of £30 per altered item, and any further cost we incur in making this alteration. You should be aware that these costs could increase the closer to the departure date that changes are made and you should contact us as soon as possible. Note: Certain travel arrangements (e.g. (but not limited to) air tickets, accommodation, rail or touring products) may not be changeable after a reservation has been made and any alteration request could incur a cancellation charge of up to 100% of that part of the arrangements.
6. If You Cancel Your BookingYou, or any member of your party, may cancel your travel arrangements at any time. Written notifi cation from the person who made the booking or your travel agent on your behalf must be received at our offi ces. Since we incur costs in cancelling your travel arrangements, you will have to pay the applicable cancellation charges up to the maximum shown in clause 7. Note: if the reason for your cancellation is covered under the terms of your insurance policy, you may be able to reclaim these charges.
7. If We Change or Cancel Your BookingIt is unlikely that we will have to make any changes to your travel arrangements, but we do plan the arrangements many months in advance. Occasionally, we may have to make changes and we reserve the right to do so at any time. Most of these changes will be minor and we will advise you or your travel agent of them at the earliest possible date. We also reserve the right in any circumstances to cancel your travel arrangements. For example, if the minimum number of clients required for a particular travel arrangement is not reached, we may have to cancel it. However, we will not cancel your travel arrangements less than 10 weeks before your departure date, except for reasons of force majeure or failure by you to pay the fi nal balance. If we are unable to provide the booked travel arrangements, you can either have a refund of all monies paid or accept an offer of alternative travel arrangements of comparable standard from us, if available (we will refund any price difference if the alternative is of a lower value). If it is necessary to
cancel your travel arrangements, we will pay to you compensation as set out in this clause. Any changes to the actual airline after you have received your tickets will be notifi ed to you as soon as possible and in all cases at check-in or at the boarding gate. Such a change is deemed to be a minor change. Other examples of minor changes include alteration of your outward/return fl ights by less than 12 hours, changes to aircraft type, change of accommodation to another of the same standard. If we make a major change to your booking, we will inform you or your travel agent as soon as reasonably possible if there is time before your departure. You will have the choice of either accepting the change of arrangements, accepting an offer of alternative travel arrangements of comparable standard from us if available (we will refund any price difference if the alternative is of a lower value), or cancelling your booking and receiving a full refund of all monies paid. In all cases, except where the major change arises due to reasons of force majeure, we will pay compensation as detailed below:*
Period before departure within which notice of Cancellation or major change is received by us or notifi ed to you
IF WE MAKE A MAJOR CHANGE TO YOUR HOLIDAYAmount you will receive from us
IF WE CANCELYOUR HOLIDAY
Amount you will receive from us
IF YOU CANCELYOUR HOLIDAY
MAXIMUM amount ofcancellation charge*
More than 56 days56-43 days42-41 days30-0 days
Nil£20£30£50
Deposit onlyMonies paid + £20Monies paid + £30Monies paid + £50
Deposit only50% of holiday cost75% of holiday cost100% of holiday cost
The compensation that we offer does not exclude you from claiming more if you are entitled to do so.
*In some circumstances higher cancellation fees may be applied by certain product suppliers e.g. (but not limited to) airlines, accommodation, rail or touring products. Should this be the case you will be notifi ed of such fees before confi rming your booking and these will apply in the event of a cancellation. These fees may be any amount up to 100% of the value of the product or booking value.
Force Majeure: This means that we will not pay you compensation if we have to cancel or change your travel arrangements in any way because of unusual or unforeseeable circumstances beyond our control. These can include, for example, war, riot, industrial dispute, terrorist activity and its consequences, natural or nuclear disaster, fi re,
adverse weather conditions, epidemics and pandemics, unavoidable technical problems with transport. In accordance with EU Regulation 2111/2005 we are required to advise you of the actual carrier operating your fl ights.
8. If You Have A ComplaintIf you have a problem or any cause for complaint with your travel arrangements, please report it immediately directly to the supplier (e.g. the hotel manager), and as soon as possible bring it to the attention of our local representative / agent. They will try to rectify the problem at the time. If no representative/agent is available, or if they are unable to resolve the matter to your satisfaction, please refer to your travel documents for our contact details. If your complaint cannot be resolved locally having reported it, you must inform our representative/agent in writing whilst overseas and follow this up in writing to us within 28 days of your return home. If you fail to follow this procedure, we cannot accept responsibility for any problem or complaint that could have been rectifi ed there and then had you notifi ed us, the supplier or our representative/agent at the time. For all problems or complaints, failure to comply with this procedure may mean that your right to claim any compensation you may otherwise have been entitled to may be affected or lost as a result.
9. Our Liability to YouIf the contract we have with you is not performed or is improperly performed by us or our suppliers we will pay you appropriate compensation if this has affected the enjoyment of your travel arrangements. However we will not be liable where any failure in the performance of the contract is due to: you; or a third party unconnected with the provision of the travel arrangements and where the failure is unforeseeable or unavoidable; or unusual and unforeseeable circumstances beyond our control, the consequences of which could not have been avoided even if all due care had been exercised; or an event which we or our suppliers, even with all due care, could not foresee or forestall. Inspired by Asia does not accept any liability for any services or facilities which your hotel or any other supplier agrees to provide for you where the services or facilities are not advertised in our brochure and we have not agreed to arrange them. Excursions or other tours that you may choose to book or pay for whilst you are on holiday are not part of your package holiday provided by us. For any excursion or other tour that you book, your contract will be with the operator of the excursion or tour and not with us. We are not responsible for the provision of the excursion or tour or for anything that happens during the course of its provision by the operator. Our liability, except in cases involving death, injury or illness, shall be limited to a maximum of two times the cost of your travel arrangements. Our liability will also be limited in accordance with and/or in an identical manner with any relevant international convention. You can ask for copies of the transport companies’ contractual terms, or the international conventions, from our offi ces in Harrogate. Under EU law (Regulation 261/2004) you have rights in some circumstances to refunds and/or compensation from your airline in cases of denied boarding, cancellation or delay to fl ights. Full details of these rights will be publicised at EU airports and will also be available from airlines. Your right to a refund and/or compensation from us is set out in clause 7. If any payments to you are due from us, any payment made to you by the airline will be deducted from this amount. If your airline does not comply with these rules you should complain to the Air Transport Users’ Council on 020 7240 6061 www.auc.org.uk
10. Prompt Assistance OverseasIf the contract we have with you is not performed or is improperly performed as a result of failures attributable to a third party unconnected with the provision of the services, or as a result of failures due to unusual and unforeseeable circumstances beyond our control, the consequences of which could not have been avoided even if all due care had been exercised, or an event which we or our suppliers, even with all due care, could not foresee or forestall, and you suffer an injury or other material loss, we will offer you such prompt assistance as is reasonable in the circumstances. This brochure is our responsibility, as your tour operator. It is not issued on behalf of, and does not commit the airlines mentioned herein or any airline whose services are used in the course of your travel arrangements. Please note that in accordance with Air Navigation Orders in order to qualify for infant status, a child must be under 2 years of age on the date of its return fl ight.
Published August 2015. Prices valid from January 2016. Booking conditions valid from 1 September 2015.Registered Offi ce Milton House, 33a Milton Road, Hampton, Middlesex TW12 2LL.
BOOKING CONDITIONS
Your Financial Protection When you buy an ATOL protected fl ight or fl ight inclusive holiday from us you will receive an ATOL Certifi cate. This lists what is fi nancially protected, where you can get information on what this means for you and who to contact if things go wrong.
INSPIRED BYINSPIRED BYINSPIRED BY
ASIAASIAASIAASIAASIAASIA
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2 Grove Park Court, Harrogate, North Yorkshire HG1 4DP
Telephone 01423 565111 www.inspiredbyasia.co.uk
ABTA No. Y1862 / V8887
Ask your travel agent for a copy of our Australia and New Zealand brochure
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Best Tour Operator 2014as voted by AITO Independent Travel Agents
T H E B E S T O F T H E FA R E A S T TA I L O R M A D E
INSPIRED BYINSPIRED BYINSPIRED BY
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