SOUTHEAST ASIA’S - · PDF filedeep in a Borneo jungle, the village hosts five different...

SOUTHEAST ASIA’S

prefaceOn ASEAN’s 50th year of bringing Southeast Asia’s countries and peoples together, we’re inviting you to celebrate a half-century of friendships and fun, using one of these 50 travel packages that run through multiple Southeast Asian countries and tourism hotspots.

There’s an experience here for everyone: the foodie, the history buff, the adventure addict, the compulsive shopper, or anyone who’s all of the above.

Whatever your travel inclination, ASEAN has what you’re looking for – and 2017, the year of ASEAN’s 50th Golden Celebration, is the right time to go on that trip of a lifetime!

CONTENTS

4-TO-7-DAY ADVENTURES• Brunei & Sarawak, City to City• Borneo’s Cultural Highlights• Wandering Through Wild Borneo • Ancient Kingdoms: Yogyakarta & Melaka• Culture, City & Chance• Theme Parks and Retail Therapy• Palawan’s Nature-Based Grandeur• Three-Part Harmony: Philippines, Viet Nam, Cambodia• Waterways & Train Tracks through Thailand & Cambodia• The Amazing Mekong Waterway

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8-TO-11-DAY ADVENTURES• Cambodia & Viet Nam Cross-Border Adventure• The Cultural Grand Tour: Bangkok, Yogyakarta & Bali• The Turn-Back-Time Tour• A Holiday on the Water, from Malaysia to Viet Nam• Myanmar and Viet Nam, Bridging Buddhist Kingdoms• Myanmar and Thailand, from Capital to Capital• Jungle to the Beach, from Cambodia to Thailand• Downriver Through Thailand & Laos• Rivers and Seashores: 9 Days Through Thailand, Cambodia & Viet Nam• Reliving Lost Empires• The Malay Peninsula, from Center to South• Palaces, Temples & River Villages• Highlights of Laos & Viet Nam

12-TO-15-DAY ADVENTURES• Health & Wellness in Malaysia & Singapore• Skyscrapers and Temples Tour• Six Cities, 12 Days Tour• Coastal Paths from Myanmar to Thailand• Exploring the Elephant Kingdoms: Thailand and Laos• 12-Day Viet Nam and Cambodia Trek• 12-Day Indochina Discovery• Viet Nam and Myanmar by Air • Cultural Riches Through Three Countries• Laos, Viet Nam & Cambodia’s Mekong Marvels• City-to-Country Excursion• Fun in the City – Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Bangkok• Footsteps of the Masters Grand Golf Tour• Laos & Viet Nam for the Body & Soul• Roads & Rivers through North Viet Nam & Laos• River Travels to Jungle Villages

ADVENTURES OF OVER 16 DAYS• 16-Day Grand Indochina Tour• Southeast Asia Overload• Majestic March Through Myanmar and Malaysia• Southeast Asia Discovery• Passage to Viet Nam• Trekking, Driving and Cruising Through Four Countries• Three Weeks’ Wandering Wonder• 27-Day Northern Thailand, Laos and Cambodia Saga

CRUISE PACKAGES • See Southeast Asia Aboard the Coral Discoverer• Your Royal Adventure Starts Here In Southeast Asia• Up the Malacca Strait Onboard SuperStar Gemini

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4-TO-7-DAYADVENTURESTake a few days off your busy schedule to see Southeast Asia’s highlights. These itineraries bring you through at least two countries and their respective wonders, needing only a week or less of your time

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BRUNEI & SARAWAK, CITY TO CITY

Kampong Ayer water village, Brunei. Image courtesy of Tourism Brunei.

A 4-day, 3-night jaunt between borders covering two neighboring cities: Bandar Seri Begawan in Brunei; Miri in Sarawak, Malaysia; and everything culinary and cultural in between

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HIGHLIGHTSOn your first day in Brunei’s bustling capital Bandar Seri Begawan (BSB), you’ll start the tour by sampling Brunei’s unique flavours at a local restaurant. Proceed to the Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddin Mosque and the hubbub of the Gadong Night Market to take in the sights, sounds and wonderful smells of BSB at street level.

The next two days takes you across the border to the nearby Malaysian city of Miri, which like BSB relies on petroleum as a key industry. (Bukit Tenaga, formerly Canada Hill, site of the first oil discovery in Miri, is part of your city itinerary.)

“Black gold” has nonetheless allowed a plethora of cultures to thrive in Miri, accounting for the city’s many cultural highlights that you will visit: the Taoist Temple and the Sarawak Handicraft Center among them. The Miri city tour covers all these sites, bookended by shopping at the Morning Market and the Bintang Mall.

On your last day, back in Brunei, you’ll explore Bandar Seri Begawan’s key highlights: the Tamu (Open Market); notable museums like the Regalia Centre and the Malay Technology Museum; and the Kampong Ayer (water village) where you’ll sit down to local cakes and tea in a house after a water taxi ride. After a tour of Jame’ Asr Hassanil Bolkiah Mosque, the capital’s newest house of worship, you’ll go shopping for Brunei souvenirs at Rahmans before transferring to BSB Airport for your flight home.

BOOK THIS TOUR

Petroleum Museum, Miri, Malaysia. Image courtesy of Tourism Malaysia.Seahorse statues, Miri, Malaysia. Image courtesy of Sarawak Tourism.

For tour prices, timetables and other important details, visit Freme Travel’s official site: freme.com.

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Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddin Mosque at dusk. Image courtesy of Brunei Tourism.

BORNEO’S CULTURAL HIGHLIGHTSA 5-day, 4-night immersive cultural experience across Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei and Kota Kinabalu in Sabah, Malaysia (with a beach stop in between)

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HIGHLIGHTS

Gadong Night Market, Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei. Image (c) Iqremix / Creative Commons.

Sapi Island, Sabah, Malaysia. Image (c) Borneo Encounter Tours & Transportation (BETT) / Creative Commons.

Your tour begins late in the day, sampling Brunei’s unique flavours at a restaurant in Bandar Seri Begawan. The lights illuminating the Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddin Mosque, and the hubbub of the Gadong Night Market, serve as a lively introduction to Brunei’s capital.

On your first full day, you’ll explore Bandar Seri Begawan’s key highlights: the Tamu (Open Market); royal landmarks like the Regalia Centre and the Sultan’s Palace (Istana Nurul Iman); and the Kampong Ayer (water village) where you’ll sit down to local cakes and tea in a house after a water taxi ride.

After a tour of Jame’ Asr Hassanil Bolkiah Mosque, the capital’s newest house of worship, you’ll go shopping for Brunei souvenirs at Pelangi Mutiara Tourist Square. Next, you’ll fly across the border to Kota Kinabalu, and take a ferry to the nearby Tunku Abdul Rahman Park in Sabah. Your time on TARP’s Sapi Island will be quite leisurely: go swimming or snorkelling off the dazzling white beach, then enjoy a barbecued meal al fresco.

On your last day, leave for Mari Mari Cultural Village near Kota Kinabalu. Set deep in a Borneo jungle, the village hosts five different ethnic tribes – the Bajau, Lundayeh, Murut, Rungus and Dusun – and showcases their cultural traditions, each one a breathtaking departure from the “civilization” far behind you. Hands-on demonstrations of cultural arts – from tattoo-making to blowpipe-making – immerse you in the local culture as no other experience can.

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WANDERING THROUGH WILD BORNEO

Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddin Mosque, Brunei. Image courtesy of Brunei Tourism.

A 6-day, 5-night jaunt between worlds: Bandar Seri Begawan’s bustling urbanity, Ulu Temburong’s deep rainforest experience, and Tunku Abdul Rahman Park’s pristine seascape

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HIGHLIGHTSUpon landing in Brunei’s capital Bandar Seri Begawan, you’ll start straight off tasting unique flavours at a local restaurant, before gazing upon Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddin Mosque and breathing deep in the atmosphere of Gadong Night Market.

The next full day lets you explore Bandar Seri Begawan’s key highlights: the Tamu (Open Market); notable museums like the Regalia Centre and the Malay Technology Museum; and the Kampong Ayer (water village) where you’ll sit down to local cakes and tea in a house after a water taxi ride.

After a tour of Jame’ Asr Hassanil Bolkiah Mosque, the capital’s newest house of worship, you’ll wind up the day shopping for Brunei souvenirs at Rahmans.

Heading off to Ulu Temburong National Park the next day requires an early start: by 7am, you’ll be speeding down the river to Temburong District, into Ulu Temburong and right into wild Bornean rainforest, best seen from the top of Ulu Temburong’s Canopy Walkway.

Next, you’ll fly across the border to Kota Kinabalu, and take a ferry to the nearby Tunku Abdul Rahman Park in Sabah. Your time on TARP’s Sapi Island will be quite leisurely: go swimming or snorkelling off the dazzling white beach, then enjoy a barbecued meal al fresco.

On your last day, leave for Mari Mari Cultural Village near Kota Kinabalu. Set deep in a Borneo jungle, the village hosts five different ethnic tribes – the Bajau, Lundayeh, Murut, Rungus and Dusun – and showcases their cultural traditions, each one a breathtaking departure from the “civilization” far behind you. Hands-on demonstrations of cultural arts – from tattoo-making to blowpipe-making – immerse you in the local culture as no other experience can.

Temburong canopy walk, Brunei. Image (c) Brendan / Creative Commons.

Sapi Island, Sabah, Malaysia. Image (c) Adib Wahab / Creative Commons.

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ANCIENT KINGDOMS: YOGYAKARTA & MELAKA

Borobudur, Magelang, Indonesia. Image courtesy of Mike Aquino.

A 6-day, 5-night exploration of Southeast Asia’s most venerable sultanates and their respective histories, from Yogyakarta in Indonesia to Melaka in Malaysia

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HIGHLIGHTS

Christ Church, Melaka, Malaysia. Image courtesy of Mike Aquino.

ASEAN Sculpture Park, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Image courtesy of Tourism Malaysia.

From Yogyakarta’s central “Tugu” monument, you’ll find much of Java, Indonesia’s ancient Javanese empires and their descendants in their well-preserved glory: from the majestic Buddhist mandala of Borobudur, with impassive Buddha statues staring out at the four cardinal directions; to the jigsaw-puzzle Hindu Prambanan Temple, with towering spires dedicated to Shiva, Vishnu and Brahma.

In the present day, the Sultan of Yogyakarta still rules this “special region”, and his presence can be felt at his home, the Keraton royal palace. Not far from the latter you’ll find the remnants of a former Sultan’s sybaritic getaway, the Taman Sari water palace.

From Yogyakarta, you’ll jet out to Kuala Lumpur, the capital of Malaysia, whose city center features a wealth

of architectural marvels, including the Malaysian National Monument & ASEAN Garden Sculpture; the iconic Petronas Twin Towers; and historic buildings aplenty: the Mughal-inspired original Kuala Lumpur railway station building; the Islamic Arts Centre; and the buildings around Independence Square, including Masjid Jamek (Mosque).

After shopping for souvenirs at the Jadi Batek Handicrafts Centre, you’ll proceed south to Melaka, the former seat of the Melaka Sultanate and a battleground for colonial rule. Melaka’s rich history manifests in its venerable old buildings: St. Paul’s Church ruins, the Dutch-built Stadthuys and Christ Church; the Queen Victoria Fountain; and Cheng Hoon Teng Temple along Melaka’s “Street of Harmony”.

Finish the experience with a leisurely stroll down Jonker Street and an authentic Peranakan meal, in the very city where the Peranakan culture was born.

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For tour prices, timetables and other important details, visit Pacto Jakarta’s official site: freme.com, or email [email protected] [email protected].

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CULTURE, CITY & CHANCE

Buildings opposite Independence Square, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Image courtesy of Mike Aquino.

A 6-day, 5-night jaunt through Bali, Indonesia’s cultural highlights; Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia’s brightly lit streets; and the fortunes to be made at Genting Highlands’ casinos

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HIGHLIGHTS

Kecak performance at Uluwatu, Bali. Image courtesy of Mike Aquino.

Genting Highlands, Malaysia. Image courtesy of Tourism Malaysia.

features some of Southeast Asia’s most daring architecture and statuary, including the Malaysian National Monument & ASEAN Garden Sculpture; the historic buildings around Independence Square; the dizzying heights of the Petronas Twin Towers; and the Islam-inspired lines of the original Kuala Lumpur railway station building, the National Mosque, Islamic Arts Centre, and Masjid Jamek (Mosque).

Make Jadi Batek Handicrafts Centre your last stop in Kuala Lumpur, before transferring to Malaysia’s gaming hotspot in the heights, Genting Highlands, hopefully with Lady Luck on your side!

For your first three days, you’ll encounter Bali’s high Hindu culture, manifested through a kecak dance at Pura Luhur Uluwatu; Barong dances at Batubulan; views of the magnificent seaside temple of Tanah Lot; immersions in the gorgeous water temples of Pura Ulun Danu and Tampak Siring; and a glimpse of the soaring beauty of Taman Ayun and Gunung Batur in Kintamani.

Bali is famous for its culturally-significant souvenirs: the tour lets you loose in the Galuh Batik Factory and Sukawati Art Market shopping centre.

On the fourth day of the tour, you’ll jet out to Kuala Lumpur, the capital of Malaysia, whose city center

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For tour prices, timetables and other important details, visit Pacto Jakarta’s official site: freme.com, or [email protected] and [email protected].

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THEME PARKS AND RETAIL THERAPY

Nighttime view from the Singapore Flyer. Image courtesy of the Singapore Tourism Board.

A 7-day, 6-night trip through Southeast Asia’s top theme parks and most popular outlet stores, courtesy of Singapore, Johor, Jakarta and Bandung

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HIGHLIGHTS

Sunda Kelapa wharf, Jakarta, Indonesia. Image courtesy of Mike Aquino

Bandung outlet store, Indonesia. Image courtesy of Mike Aquino.

From your starting point in Singapore, you’ll reach some of Southeast Asia’s most modern (and most entertaining) theme parks.

First up: the silver-screen-inspired Universal Studios Singapore in Sentosa, home to experiences that put you right in popular movies like Transformers, Jurassic Park, and the Mummy. Next, you’ll make the short hop across the border to Johor, where Legoland Theme Park awaits: “everything is awesome” here, from its water park to its plastic brick miniatures. Finally, you’ll get

an amazing view of Singapore and nearby islands from high up in the air, courtesy of the Singapore Flyer. On to Jakarta in Indonesia, where the attractions are more historic and cultural: visits to Sunda Kelapa Old Harbour, Fatahillah Museum, and Glodok China Town; a selfie stop at Monas; and an overview of Indonesia at Taman Mini Indah.

Your last stop brings you to Bandung, a breezy mountain town bursting with natural attractions and retail therapy. When you’re not exploring Kawah Putih, Ranca Upas and strawberry farms at Ciwidey, you can browse cheap clothes at outlet stores like Rumah Mode, Heritage and Summit.

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For tour prices, timetables and other important details, contact Panorama DMC on their website: www.panorama-tours.com, or email [email protected] or [email protected].

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PALAWAN’S NATURE-BASED GRANDEUR

Underground River, Palawan, Philippines. Image (c) Paweesit / Creative Commons.

A 7-day, 6-night hop from the Philippines’ natural wonders in Palawan, following on to leisurely stopovers in Malaysia and Singapore

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HIGHLIGHTSMost of the trip is centered around the Philippines’ paradisiacal island of Palawan. You’ll start your first day at the provincial capital of Puerto Princesa, working your way through the island’s highlights: a visit to the Crocodile Farm Institute; a trip to a “prison without walls”, the Iwahig Penal Colony; and a stopover at Mitra Ranch overlooking the city and nearby Honda Bay.

Next, you’ll visit one of the world’s longest underground rivers in the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park, set about 80 kilometers from Puerto Princesa City. The magnificent rock formations within the massive cave chambers evoke a sense of awe as you float through their recesses.

You’ll proceed to Honda Bay, a thirty-minute drive from Puerto Princesa. Around Honda Bay, you’ll embark on an island-hopping tour between Bat, Luli, Meara Marina and Pandan Islands where you can swim, snorkel, and relax on the beaches along the way.

Afterwards, Malaysia awaits: a leisurely stopover at Kuala Lumpur lets you explore the city on your own time, before transferring to Genting Highlands and its flashy attractions. Try your luck at Genting’s gaming scene after taking the scenic cable car ride over this brightly-lit hill town.

You’ll ride the bus to Kuala Lumpur and Singapore, spending your final stop at Southeast Asia’s most modern city. Take your time getting to know Singapore, as the trip allows you to explore at your leisure.

Isla Pandan, Honda Bay, Philippines. Mendhak / Creative Commons.

Petronas Towers, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Image courtesy of Tourism Malaysia.

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For tour prices, timetables and other important details, visit Rajah Tour Philippines’ official site:www.rajahtours.com.ph, or email: [email protected].

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THREE-PART HARMONY: PHILIPPINES,VIET NAM, CAMBODIA

St Martin de Tours Church, Taal, Philippines. Image (c) Tralphe XY / Creative Commons.

A 7-day, 6-night hop through highlights from three different Southeast Asian countries: the Philippines’ highlands, Viet Nam’s colonial remnants, and relics from Cambodia’s generations of royal rule

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HIGHLIGHTSThe Philippines isn’t well known for culture, but look around the slumbering Taal volcano and its scenic lake, and you’ll find it.

The town of Taal, renowned for its Spanish-style churches and old houses, cast a spell on history buffs looking for remnants of Spain’s rule over this realm. Trace a path back to Manila, with stops along Tagaytay, a town overlooking Taal lake; and Las Piñas, home to St Joseph’s church and its famous “Bamboo Organ”, literally made out of treated bamboo pipes.

Overnight in Manila before flying to Ho Chi Minh City in Viet Nam. This southern Vietnamese city used to be a French colonial entrepot, a Cold War capital, and the site where the Viet Nam War ended. Sites around Ho Chi Minh City recall its storied past: the Cu Chi Tunnels, built by the Viet Minh fighting against the French; colonial heritage structures like the Independence PalaceNotre Dame Church, the Post office, and City Hall.

Indulge your shopping itch at working-class Ben Thanh Market and upmarket Dong Khoi Street; that’s your last stop before crossing over to Cambodia’s capital Phnom Penh, where the itinerary takes a turn for the Angkorian: from stopping at

the Royal Palace, built in 1866 by King Norodom, and pagodas and museums around its perimeter.

Finally, you’ll fly to Siem Reap, where the Angkor Temple complex stands in a grassy plain. Start your Siem Reap visit by taking a boat to the floating village of Chong Khneas, set on Cambodia’s “great lake” Tonle Sap, inhabited by whole floating communities making their living from the water.

The Angkor Temple complex makes for an amazing end to the trip: explore a succession of ancient temples, including Angkor Wat, Bayon Temple, Wat Thmei, and Ta Prohm – all remnants of a once mighty empire that stretched across Cambodia and parts of Viet Nam and Thailand at its height.

Saigon Post Office. Image courtesy of Mike Aquino. Phnom Penh Royal Palace. Image courtesy of Tourism Cambodia.

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For tour prices, timetables and other important details, visit Annset Holidays Inc.’s official site: www.annsetholidays.com.ph; or email [email protected] (address to Ren Locsin) or [email protected].

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WATERWAYS & TRAIN TRACKS THROUGH THAILAND & CAMBODIA

Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya, Thailand. Image © Tourism Authority of Thailand.

This 7-day 6-night tour takes you down river currents and train tracks to Thailand and Cambodia’s most authentic destinations both on and off the beaten path

Rivers nourish Thailand’s most vibrant settlements, and this is most apparent in Mahachai, located 45 km southwest of Bangkok. Your trip starts here, where Klong Mahachai canal and the Ta Chine River converge; watch tons of seafood change hands in a scene that has gone unchanged for generations. A different market vibe awaits at the Mae Klong Railway Market – wait for the train to pass right through, with vendors clearing the tracks at just the right time!

HIGHLIGHTS

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The nearby riverside town of Amphawa offers a glimpse of the Benjarong House and Museum, home to skilled chinaware artisans, before you embark on a boat trip through the town’s scenic waterways. You’ll pass orchards and farmhouses before sailing up Mae Klong River to Wat Bang Kung, a 200-year-old temple almost surrounded by the roots of a huge banyan tree.

After passing by the Damnoen Saduak floating market, you’ll continue to Kanchanaburi, gateway to World War II memorial sites like the War Cemetery, the Death Railway that passes over the famous Bridge over the River Kwai, and Hellfire Pass Memorial Museum.

It’s a long drive from here to Ayutthaya, a ruined former Siamese capital. Temple ruins like Wat Panangchern (which still contains the oldest bronze Buddha image in Ayutthaya), Wat Phra Sri Sanphet, Wat Yai Chai Mongkol and Wat Chai Wattanaram contrast with the well-preserved Royal Summer Palace downstream of the Chao Phraya River.

Across the border, you’ll take on a day tour of Cambodia’s present-day capital Phnom Penh and its attractions: the Independence Monument, the National Museum, the Royal Palace and the Silver Pagoda within it, notable for its floor composed of 5,000 silver tiles. The day’s tour ends with a visit to the city’s namesake, Wat Phnom.

You’ll wind up your tour at Siem Reap, where the massive complex of Angkor-era temples recall a massive empire that once ruled from here. Over the tour’s last few days, you’ll explore the Angkor ruins in minute detail: from the overgrown walls of Ta Prohm to the brickwork of Prasat Kravan to the magnificence that is Angkor Wat.

Ta Prohm, Angkor temples, Cambodia. Image © Tourism Authority of Thailand.

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For tour prices, timetables and other important details, contact Diethelm Travel by telephone +66 (0) 2660 7000, email [email protected], or visit their website diethelmtravel.com.

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THE AMAZING MEKONG WATERWAY

Fishermen on the Mekong. Image courtesy of Ministry of Tourism Cambodia

A 7-day, 6-night trip down Southeast Asia’s most important river, exploring history and culture in equal measure through Ho Chi Minh City and Chau Doc in Viet Nam; and Phnom Penh and Siem Reap in Cambodia

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HIGHLIGHTSOne of Southeast Asia’s mightiest rivers, the Mekong flows over 4,900 km through six countries, serving as a transportation medium, source of freshwater and food, and a foundation for countless cities and empires all along its length. In this tour, you’ll have the opportunity to see how the Mekong has shaped history and culture wherever it’s flowed.

Ho Chi Minh City in Viet Nam’s far south stands close to the Mekong River delta, where the waterway empties out to the South China Sea. After exploring the Cu Chi Tunnels built by the Viet Minh in the 20th century and the colonial buildings around the city center, you’ll travel to Chau Doc, part of the Mekong Delta region and site of Ba Chua Xu Temple, a legendary house of worship. Another ancient pagoda, Tay An, combines Viet Namese and other Asian architectural styles.

Finish your Chau Doc stay by riding a boat around the floating raft houses and fish farms in the area – enjoy the view from afar, and come up close to see how the locals live.

From Chau Doc, an express boat takes you up the Mekong and across the border to Phnom Penh, capital of Cambodia. A city tour takes you to the capital’s most significant spots: the Victory Monument, Royal Palace and Wat Phnom temple among them.

Finally, a six-hour drive from Phnom Penh takes you to the site of a mighty empire that once sustained itself from a tributary of the Mekong. Siem Reap is the gateway to the massive and massively beautiful Angkor temple complex. Many visitors spend weeks exploring every corner of the Angkor temples, but you’ll only have a day to see its highlights: the decaying but still magnificent Ta Prohm; the sprawling ancient capital Angkor Thom; the many faces of Bayon Temple; and majestic Angkor Wat, covering 81 hectares and representing the home of the gods themselves.

Take one last boat ride on the Tonle Sap Lake, whose waters flow from the Mekong and serve as home to several lake communities who live on these fertile waters, much as their ancestors did.

Ba Chua Xu Temple, Viet Nam. Image © Jean-Pierre Dalbéra / Creative Commons.

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For tour prices, timetables and other important details, contact Asianway Travel by telephone +84 (0) 43 7 755 888, email [email protected] or visit their website asianwaytravel.com.

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8-TO-12-DAYADVENTURESA week or so is just enough time to have an excursion to remember in Southeast Asia, with enjoyable experiences that cover the region’s natural wonders, its unconventional transport methods, and dazzling cities

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CAMBODIA & VIET NAM CROSS-BORDER ADVENTURE

Ba Dinh Square, Hanoi, Vietnam. Image courtesy of the Vietnam National Administration of Tourism

This 8-day/7-night jaunt through Cambodia and Viet Nam’s highlights take visitors on a wide-ranging tour through each country’s capitals and other major stops

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HIGHLIGHTSBegin your sublime journey of heritage sites and cultural city spots in the gateway to the world famous temples of Angkor, Siem Reap. On the day you arrive, visit Southeast Asia’s largest freshwater lake, the Tonle Sap, for its floating and fishing villages; Artisan d’ Angkor for the art of Khmer traditional carving; and the old and night markets for shopping. Your second day in Siem Reap will bring you into the lost city of the Khmer Empire as you explore the eerie remains of Angkor Thom, the jungle-ravaged temple Ta Phrom, the majestic Angkor Wat, and the beautiful sunset view at Pre Rup. Before you bid Cambodia goodbye, you’ll spend one day in the capital of Phnom Penh where your stops include the iconic Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda, the haunting Toul Sleng Museum, and the busy Central Market.

Your next stop is Viet Nam, where you will crawl into a part of the country’s history at the Cu Chi tunnels. You’ll also experience the whir of city life at two of Viet Nam’s famed cities, Ho Chi Minh and Hanoi.

The city tour for HCM includes the historic Reunification Palace and War Museum, shopping haunts Binh Tay Market and Ben Thanh Market, and beautiful Notre Dame Cathedral and Giac Lam Pagoda, among other cultural stops.

In the captivating capital of Hanoi, take a stroll at the sprawling Ba Dinh Sqaure with its vast park and surrounding notable buildings, behold the well-preserved Temple of Literature, and the scenic Hoan Kiem Lake where Ngoc Son Temple is nestled on a nearby island.

Your final stop will have you escaping the city and heading off to Halong Bay. Aboard a boat, you’ll get a chance to explore a few of this natural wonder’s hundreds of limestone islands, including Thien Cung Grotto, Tuan Chau Island, Dinh Huong Island, Ga Choi Island, Dog Island, and Sail Island, before returning to Hanoi.

Royal Palace, Phnom Penh, Cambodia. Image courtesy of Cambodia Ministry of Tourism.

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For tour prices, timetables and other important details, contact Great Angkor Tour by telephone +855 23 212 421, emailAng Kim Eang [email protected], or visit their websitewww.greatangkortour.com.

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THE CULTURAL GRAND TOUR:BANGKOK, YOGYAKARTA & BALI

Pura Ulun Danu Bratan temple, Bali, Indonesia. Image courtesy of Tourism Indonesia

An 8-day, 7-night visit to Southeast Asia’s key exponents of high culture: Yogyakarta and its Javanese way of life; Bangkok and its gentle Thai arts; and Bali’s Hindu-inspired crafts.

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HIGHLIGHTSBangkok, Thailand is this tour’s starting line, and what a show it puts on: from the dazzling selections for shoppers at the Bangkok Night Market and the Siam Paragon mall; to the many historic structures down the Chao Phraya River, among them Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn) and the Grand Palace complex.

From Thailand, you’ll jet off to the Indonesian city of Yogyakarta, which retains much of the magic left over from successive Hindu and Buddhist kingdoms that once ruled the region.

Starting with the present-day Sultan of Yogyakarta’s Keraton, or royal palace, you’ll proceed to the Taman Sari water palace before traveling back to kingdoms long gone, through structures like the majestic Buddhist mandala of Borobudur, featuring impassive Buddha statues staring out at the four cardinal directions; and the fragmented but still magnificent Hindu Prambanan Temple.

Explore Yogyakarta’s cultural traditions hands-on when you visit a local Batik village and the Kota Gede Gold & Silver district, before shopping at the city’s busy Malioboro retail street. Finally, you’ll make the short eastward hop to Bali, where the island’s gorgeous Hindu temples will bowl you over: the gorgeous water temples of Pura Ulun Danu Bratan and Tampak Siring; the magnificent seaside temple of Tanah Lot; and the placid beauty of Gunung Batur in Kintamani.

Between stops, you’ll have a romantic dinner al fresco on Jimbaran Beach, and stop for shopping at the Kuta tourist district near the airport.

Borobudur, Indonesia. Image courtesy of Mike Aquino. / Grand Palace, Bangkok, Thailand. Image courtesy of Tourism Authority of Thailand

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For tour prices, timetables and other important details, contact Bhara Tours & Travel via email: [email protected], or call them at +62 (0) 22 7234150.

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THE TURN-BACK-TIME TOUR

Kecak performance, Uluwatu, Bali. Image courtesy of Mike Aquino.

An 8-day, 7-night time-hop from ultra-modern Singapore to two Indonesian destinations known for their history and high culture: Yogyakarta and Bali

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HIGHLIGHTSBegin at Southeast Asia’s city of the future, Singapore: a cultural melting pot and technological workshop with a dazzling series of attractions rooted in both old and new.

Stops at Singapore include a close encounter with nocturnal animals at the Night Safari; immersion in local cultures at Chinatown and Little India; and family-friendly fun at Sentosa, including a visit to the Dolphin Lagoon, Wings of Time, and Universal Studios.

You’ll proceed next to Yogyakarta in Indonesia: the seat of kingdoms past and present, as evidenced by structures like the majestic 8th-century Buddhist mandala of Borobudur, related to nearby Buddhist temples Mendut and Pawon; and the fragile-looking

Merlion in Marina Bay, Singapore. Image courtesy of Tourism Singapore.

Keraton, Yogyakarta, Indonesia. Image courtesy of Mike Aquino.

Hindu Prambanan Temple. You’ll also visit the present-day Sultan of Yogyakarta’s Keraton and the Taman Sari water palace.

Explore Yogyakarta’s cultural traditions hands-on when you visit the Kota Gede Gold & Silver district and go shopping at the city’s busy Malioboro retail street.

Your last stop is Bali, where the island’s gorgeous Hindu temples stand in the hundreds. You’ll stop at the best and brightest of Bali’s temples: the gorgeous water temples of Pura Ulun Danu Bratan and Tampak Siring; the magnificent seaside temple of Tanah Lot; the soaring Pura Taman Ayun at Mengwi; and the placid beauty of Gunung Batur in Kintamani.

Between stops, you’ll have a romantic dinner al fresco on Jimbaran Beach, and stop for shopping at the key cultural town of Ubud.

BOOK THIS TOURFor tour prices, timetables and other important details, contact Bhara Tours & Travel via email: [email protected], or call them at +62 (0) 22 7234150.

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A HOLIDAY ON THE WATER, FROM MALAYSIA TO VIET NAM

Ha Long Bay, Viet Nam. Image courtesy of the Vietnam National Administration of Tourism.

This 8-day, 7-night tour visits lakes, beaches and seashores around Southeast Asia, from Malaysia’s Port Dickson to Viet Nam’s grand Ha Long Bay

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HIGHLIGHTSSpend a week next to the sea, as you embark on a tour filled with leisurely cruises and luxurious resorts over water. From Malaysia’s Port Dickson to Viet Nam’s Ha Long Bay, this wet and wild itinerary is one for the books!

After flying into Kuala Lumpur, you’ll be transferred immediately to Port Dickson, a beach town where you can indulge in water sports like water-skiing, snorkeling and windsurfing under the auspices of the luxurious Grand Lexis Port Dickson resort.

You’ll also take a ferry cruise from Port Klang to Pulau Ketam – translated as “Crab Island” - where picturesque islets and mangrove trees serve as

a backdrop to a rural experience amidst fishing villages, topped with a rustic dinner of freshly-caught seafood.

Southwest of Kuala Lumpur, the Kuala Selangor Wetland Reserve offers views of mangrove forests as far as the eye can see; after dark, the fireflies emerge, transforming the wetlands with floating pinpoints of light.

Crossing borders to Viet Nam, you’ll start this leg of the trip with a tour of the capital Hanoi, exploring Ba Dinh Square and its highlights: Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, the Presidential Palace and Uncle Ho’s Stilt House, and One Pillar Pagoda.

You’ll make your way next to Viet Nam’s most scenic UNESCO World Heritage site: Ha Long Bay, where you’ll cruise around the magnificent Bai Tu Long Bay, admiring the fascinating rock formations through day and night.

End your tour back at Hanoi, where you’ll visit Hoan Kiem Lake (Restored Sword Lake) and shop at the ancient but still busy Old Quarter.

Port Dickson, Malaysia. Image courtesy of Malaysia Tourism.

BOOK THIS TOUR

To book this tour, email [email protected] or call their number: +60 (0) 3 7628 9940. Please indicate booking code MT8700 upon booking.

Prices for this tour start at US$1043 per head (twin sharing, from October 2016 to March 2017), or US$1110 per head (twin sharing, from April 2016 to December 2017). Package rates quoted are net in US dollar (USD), and are valid from 15 Oct to 31 Dec 2017. Additional charges may apply from 1 Apr 2017 onwards. Other terms and conditions apply.

36

MYANMAR AND VIET NAM,BRIDGING BUDDHIST KINGDOMS

Hoan Kiem Lake, Hanoi, Viet Nam. Image courtesy of the Vietnam National Administration of Tourism.

An 8-day, 7-night trip between Myanmar and Viet Nam, bridging two different Buddhist cultures and national histories, with the chance to customize your trip if your heart desires

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HIGHLIGHTSBetween Myanmar and Viet Nam, you’ll explore two different Buddhist traditions, two radically different histories, and two sides of the Southeast Asian cultural experience. In Myanmar, you’ll start in Yangon, Myanmar’s biggest and busiest city. Watch sunlight reflect off Shwedagon pagoda’s golden spire rising over the city; browse through the wares at Bogyoke (Scott) Market, one of Myanmar’s pre-eminent markets; gaze at the Kyauk Taw Gyi pagoda’s massive marble sitting Buddha; and end your day with a sumptuous dinner in Karaweik hall, a bird-like restaurant floating on Kandawgyi Royal Lake.

Travel out from Yangon to Kyaiktiyo (Golden Rock), a massive golden boulder balancing on a cliff’s edge. Locals believe a strand of the Buddha’s hair prevents the rock from tumbling down the precipice! A little


Kyaiktiyo Pagoda, Myanmar. Imiage courtesy of the Myanmar Ministry of Hotels & Tourism.

closer to the city, the town of Bago offers tours of places that recall its history as a former imperial capital: Kanbawzathardi Palace and Shwemawdaw Pagoda (the highest pagoda in Myanmar) among them.

Viet Nam is next, where the gorgeous views of Ha Long Bay await. You’ll explore this scenic karst bay from one of the “junk” cruisers chugging serenely through these waters, exploring some of the limestone caves on foot, or kayaking through coves around the waters. The Vietnamese capital Hanoi offers tours of spots that show the city’s millennium-long history: the Temple of Literature, Hoan Kiem Lake, the bustling Old Quarter, and the sprawling Ba Dinh Square with its One Pillar Pagoda and Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum.

Further off the beaten path, Tam Coc takes you on a river cruise through series of interlinked caves, before visiting Bai Dinh Temple with its wealth of superlatives: biggest pagoda in Viet Nam and biggest bronze Buddha statue in Viet Nam among them.

BOOK THIS TOUR

For tour prices, timetables and other important details, contact Mira Travels & Enterprises Ltd. by telephone+95 9 5152516,+95 9 976880244 [email protected] visit their websitewww.miramyanmartravel.com

38

MYANMAR AND THAILAND,FROM CAPITAL TO CAPITAL

Path approaching Shwedagon in Yangon, Myanmar. Image courtesy of Mike Aquino.

An 8-day, 7-night trip between Myanmar and Thailand’s top destinations that demonstrates how both countries are, to use a colloquialism, “same same but different”.

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HIGHLIGHTSYou’ll only need eight days to see Myanmar and Thailand’s top destinations: a collection of tourist stops between two countries that complement one another where culture and history are concerned.

Yangon in Myanmar has the largest number of well-preserved colonial buildings in all of Southeast Asia, all accessible through a tour in the city centre. The tour covers a side trip to Bogyoke Aung San market, where you can purchase traditional Myanmar handicrafts or gem stones like rubies, sapphires and jade.

The Shwedagon pagoda rises above all of Yangon, a massive gold-plated stupa that reputedly contains relics from the four past Buddhas, and commands the devotion of most Myanmar citizens.

Bagan has few of Yangon’s crowds and modern buildings, but this old city’s infrastructure has a more noble pedigree: formerly the capital of the Kingdom of Pagan, Bagan saw over 10,000 Buddhist temples, pagodas and monasteries built within its borders during the 11th and 13th centuries. A tour of Bagan includes stops at notable pagodas within Bagan and neigboring Nyaung-U: the massive Ananda Temple; the symmetrical Htilominlo; the intricate Shwezigon; before watching Bagan’s famous sunset from atop Pyathadat Gyi.

Inle Lake is Myanmar’s second-largest, home to the Intha and their unique waterborne way of life. The Intha cultivate floating gardens and row boats with a unique upright one leg-rowing style. Their villages around the lake include artisans making silver, cheroots (cigars), paper, and silver. Temples like Hpaung Daw U Pagoda are an Inle Lake must-visit, as is the Inthar Heritage House, home to a growing colony of Burmese cats. The Thailand resort town of Pattaya has plenty to recommend it beyond its beaches: orchids at the Nong Nooch Tropical Garden; shopping at the Central Festival Pattaya Mall; fun elephant shows; and a massive Buddha image carved by a laser into a rock face.

Finally, Bangkok’s tourist paths are well traveled but still worth seeing: the Dusit Palace complex containing Vinmanmek Mansion, the “world’s largest golden teak mansion” built a former King; the Grand Palace and Emerald Buddha temple (Wat Phra Kaew); the Four Face Buddha at Erawan Shrine; and consummate city experiences shopping at Central World and dining at Baiyoke Sky Tower overlooking the metropolis.

Vinmanmek Mansion in Bangkok, Thailand. Image courtesy of the Tourism Authority of Thailand.

BOOK THIS TOURFor tour prices, timetables and other important details, contact Mira Travels & Enterprises Ltd. by telephone +95 9 5152516, 95 9 976880244, [email protected] or visit their website www.miramyanmartravel.com

40

JUNGLE TO THE BEACH,FROM CAMBODIA TO THAILAND

Koh Chang, Thailand. Image © Tourism Authority of Thailand.

This 8-day, 7-night tour immerses its guests in Thailand and Cambodia’s natural jewels: Kirirom National Park and Koh Kong in Cambodia, and Thailand’s island of Koh Chang and surrounding islets

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HIGHLIGHTS

Beyond your initial touchdown at Cambodia’s capital Phnom Penh, you’ll first make your way to Kirirom National Park, recognized for its unique high-elevation pine forest and the unique wildlife it harbors: pleated gibbons, sun bears and tigers, among others.

The Chambok Community-based Ecotourism Site combines an unforgettable local experience with the area’s natural wonders: eat a home-cooked lunch, take an ox-cart ride, and trek up to the area’s scenic Chambok Waterfall.

A three-hour trip from Kirirom takes you next to the ecotourism haven of Koh Kong, where you’ll stay on a tented lodge afloat on the Tatai River while you explore the local fishing villages and mangrove thickets, watching out for fireflies and phosphorescing plankton in the river after dark. Optional trips to Tatai Waterfall and the village on Koh Andet island are available upon request.

Across the border in Thailand, you’ll make your way to Koh Chang, a large island with some of the finest beaches and overgrown jungle you’ll find in the Gulf of Thailand. Snorkel amidst the coral islands of Koh Yak, Koh Lie and Koh Thong, catch some rays on Koh Rang’s unspoiled beach, and admire the natural beauty of Koh Wai.

Optional trips to Koh Kood (Koh Kut) or Klong Chao Waterfall are available upon request.

Crab on Koh Kood, Thailand. Image © Tourism Authority of Thailand.

BOOK THIS TOUR

For tour prices, timetables and other important details, contact EXOTravel by telephone +66 (0) 2 633 9060 or visit their website exotravel.com.

42

DOWNRIVER THROUGH THAILAND & LAOS

The “Death Railway” through Kanchanaburi, Thailand. Image © Tourism Authority of Thailand.

This 8-day 7-night tour transports you through Laos and Thailand’s highlights via a multitude of transportation options, boats and railways included!

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HIGHLIGHTSYou’ll begin your tour at Mahachai, some 45 km southwest of Bangkok. At the confluence of Klong Mahachai canal and the Ta Chine River, Thailand’s most famous seafood market does business as it has for generations. Another market, the Mae Klong Railway Market some distance away, is notable for having an active train track running right through it!

Proceed to the riverside town of Amphawa, where you’ll stop by the Benjarong House and Museum (home to skilled chinaware artisans) before embarking on a cruise through the town’s scenic waterways to Wat Bang Kung, a 200-year-old temple almost surrounded by the roots of a huge banyan tree.

A stopover at the Damnoen Saduak floating market awaits before you proceed to Kanchanaburi, gateway to World War II memorial sites like the War Cemetery, the Death Railway that passes over the famous Bridge over the River Kwai, and Hellfire Pass Memorial Museum.

From here, you’ll take a long drive to the former capital Ayutthaya, where temple ruins like Wat Panangchern, Wat Phra Sri Sanphet, Wat Yai Chai Mongkol and Wat Chai Wattanaram contrast with the well-preserved Royal Summer Palace downstream of the Chao Phraya River.

Returning to Bangkok, you’ll board a plane to Luang Prabang in Laos, a former royal capital and present-day launching pad to a number of adventures.

Visit the traditional crafts villages of Ban Xang Khong and Ban Phanom. Explore Luang Prabang’s most notable landmarks, among them Wat Xieng Thong, the Sri Lankan-style Vat Visoun, and the magnificent Royal Palace turned National Museum. Take a swim at the crystal-clear Kuang Si Waterfall, or explore the Pak Ou Caves. And participate in a Tak Bat, or morning almsgiving to the local monks. You’ll wind up your tour at the capital of Laos, Vientiane, where you’ll see Wat Sisaket, Vientiane’s oldest-surviving monastery; Pha That Luang, a national symbol of Laos; Patouxai, a Laotian version of the Arc de Triomphe; and finally, Buddha Park, where 200 fantastically-designed concrete statues seem grounded more in fantasy than tradition.

Panoramic view of Luang Prabang, Laos.Image © Tourism Authority of Thailand.

BOOK THIS TOUR


44

RIVERS AND SEASHORES: 9 DAYS THROUGH THAILAND, CAMBODIA & VIET NAM

Royal Palace, Bangkok, Thailand. Image courtesy of the Tourism Authority of Thailand.

Take a 9-day/8-night excursion through three countries and innumerable experiences in Bangkok and Pattaya, Thailand; Siem Reap and Phnom Penh in Cambodia; and Ho Chi Minh City in Viet Nam

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HIGHLIGHTSWhat better way to start a trip around some of Southeast Asia’s prominent cities, but in Bangkok? Your first step into the Thailand capital will immediately have you rolling in laughter courtesy of Cookin’ Nanta Show, considered one of the world’s best comedy musicals in the city.

You’ll also get to enjoy a cruise along the busy Chao Phraya River and the colorful canals in the Thonburi area aboard a long-tail motor boat. Aside from seeing the scenery of Thai life along the banks, there are also many magnificent temples and architectural spectacles to behold along the way: the Grand Palace, Wat Arun, the Old Customs House, and Royal Barges Museum, among others.

Plus, your Thailand stopover won’t be complete without some time allocated for shopping and a trip to the night market in Bangkok and a day to experience one of the country’s resort cities, Pattaya. From Thailand, you’ll cross the border to Cambodia where you’ll spend two nights in Siem Reap. The charming little city is your jump-off point to the ancient city of Angkor where you’ll get to check off your bucketlist stepping foot into Angkor Wat and a few of the other centuries-old temples surrounding it.

Next, you’ll experience the Khmer city life in Phnom Penh. In Cambodia’s capital, you’ll see more historic structures like the Royal Palace, Silver Pagoda, and the art deco building of the Central Market (where you can also satisfy any shopping craving).

Royal Palace, Phnom Penh, Cambodia. Image courtesy of Cambodia Ministry of Tourism.

BOOK THIS TOUR

For tour prices, timetables and other important details, contact Great Angkor Tour by telephone +855 23 212 421, email Ang Kim [email protected], or visit their websitewww.greatangkortour.com.

For your last stop, hit Viet Nam’s bustling Ho Chi Minh City where speeding motorcycles and beautiful French architecture are a common sight. You’ll visit many of the city’s popular spots: the splendid Notre Dame Cathedral, the Municipal Post Office, Reunification Palace, Thien Hau Temple, Giac Lam Pagoda, marketplaces and workshops.

46

RELIVING LOST EMPIRES

Victory Ground, Shwedagon Pagoda, Yangon, Myanmar. Image courtesy of Mike Aquino

A 9-day, 8-night tour through four of Southeast Asia’s most notable former capitals: Yangon in Myanmar, Ho Chi Minh City in Viet Nam; Siem Reap in Cambodia; and Luang Prabang in Laos

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HIGHLIGHTSTake a tour of Southeast Asia’s former capitals: their governments may have moved elsewhere, but their brilliance remains very much in evidence.

Start at Yangon – former capital of Myanmar and still its biggest and busiest city. Business goes on in its ancient streets, which you’ll find out for yourself when you watch the sunset reflect off Shwedagon pagoda’s golden surface; browse through the wares at Bogyoke (Scott) Market, one of Myanmar’s pre-eminent markets; marvel at the massive marble sitting Buddha in the Kyauk Taw Gyi pagoda; and end your day taking in the atmosphere at Kandawgyi Royal Lake.

The Vietnamese city of Saigon – officially Ho Chi Minh City – was the capital of the southern part of a once-divided nation. Relive the conflict that eventually reunified Viet Nam, when you visit The Cu Chi Tunnels northwest of the city: part of a massive network of tunnels that sustained the Viet Minh against foreign soldiers.

Look on the brighter side of the city by shopping at Ben Thanh market or the “Phuong Nam” lacquer workshop, before embarking on a full-day excursion to the Mekong delta some two hours’ drive from Saigon. In Cambodia, Siem Reap serves as the gateway to the marvelous Angkor temple complex. Before exploring the ancient Khmer temples, take in the cultural side of Cambodia by visiting Tonle Sap lake and its floating villages; shopping at the Night Market and at the Les Chantiers Ecoles Artisans D’ Angkor, a sculpture workshop; and take in an Apsara dance show.

Work your way through Angkor’s stone marvels by starting at Angkor Thom and exploring Bayon, Baphoun, Phimeanakas, the Elephants Terrace, Terrace of Leper King, and Ta Prohm Temple. Wrap up the visit by entering the famous Angkor Wat, a massive representation of the home of the gods built for king Suryavarman II in the early 12th century.

Your last stop – the former Laos royal capital Luang Prabang – takes you on a trail that winds through gorgeously-decorated temples like Vat Visoun, That Makmo and Vat Xieng Thong. Beyond the town limits, you’ll cruise up the Mekong River to the Pak Ou Caves and its hundreds of Buddha images.

Cu Chi Tunnels, Viet Nam. Image courtesy of Mike Aquino.

BOOK THIS TOURFor tour prices, timetables and other important details, contact Sweet Memory Travel Co., Ltd. by phone +95 (1) 385642,email: [email protected], or on their sitewww.sweetmemorytravel.com.

48

THE MALAY PENINSULA, FROM CENTER TO SOUTH

Petaling Street, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Image courtesy of Tourism Malaysia.

This 9-day, 8-night tour traces a vital trade and tourism route down Southeast Asia’s Malay Peninsula, from Malaysia’s capital Kuala Lumpur to Southeast Asia’s most modern city Singapore

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HIGHLIGHTSTrade links, kingdoms, sailors, empires local and foreign – the Malay Peninsula has seen them all come and go. This tour of the Malay Peninsula’s top tourist stops acquaints travelers with the best destinations along this vital trade corridor stretching from centrally-located Kuala Lumpur to Singapore off the southernmost tip of the Asian mainland.

Start at Kuala Lumpur: over 2 million call this city home, holding tradition in high regard despite the proliferation of ultra-modern and futuristic skyscrapers.

Take a half-day trip through the Istana (Royal Palace), Dataran Merdeka (Independence Square), Chinatown, National Monument, Petronas Twin Towers and Chocolate Boutique.

Spend another half-day touring the Perdana Lake Gardens, full of flowers and butterflies within sight of the city’s modern skyline.

At Malacca, you’ll find a wealth of history and culture stretching back to the 15th century, when this city was founded.

The Portuguese, Dutch and British ruled over Malacca’s silk and spice trade for centuries and these invaders have left an unparalleled legacy of historical relics and monuments, which you’ll explore in detail: the Stadthuys, St. Paul’s Church and the mighty Porta de Santiago, built by the Portuguese in 1512. Explore Jonker Street next, known for its antiques, souvenirs, arts and crafts. Good walking shoes are a must for this leg of the trip.

Stop over at Legoland in Johor, at the southernmost tip of the Asian Mainland. The first Lego theme park in Asia has plenty to offer the young and the young at heart!

Finally, you’ll arrive at Singapore, a multicultural yet modern city bursting with surprises: Chinatown’s traditional Chinese culture spilling over its narrow streets; a cruise down the Singapore River offering sights of both ancient shophouses and the hypermodern city skyline beyond; a trip through the Civic District and its British colonial structures; a visit to Singapore’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Singapore Botanic Gardens; and a fun tour of Sentosa, Singapore’s signature resort island.

A Famosa, Malacca, Malaysia. Image courtesy of Tourism Malaysia.

BOOK THIS TOUR

To book this tour, email [email protected] or call their number: +60 (0) 3 7628 9940. Please indicate booking code MT9800 upon booking.

Prices for this tour start at US$1132 per head (twin sharing, from October 2016 to March 2017), or US$1132 per head (twin sharing, from April 2016 to December 2017). Package rates quoted are net in US dollar (USD), and are valid from 15 Oct to 31 Dec 2017. Additional charges may apply from 1 Apr 2017 onwards. Other terms and conditions apply.

50

PALACES, TEMPLES & RIVER VILLAGES

Damnoen Saduak Floating Market, Thailand. Image courtesy of Alex Holiday Co. Ltd.

A 10-day, 9-night exploration of Thailand, Viet Nam and Cambodia’s highlights – starting at Thailand’s Grand Palace and ending at Cambodia’s Angkor Wat – costing US$ 2,000 for a party of two.

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HIGHLIGHTSThis wide-ranging tour begins in Bangkok, the capital of Thailand and home to its revered King. The monarch’s official residence – the Grand Palace – kicks off our visit to the Kingdom of Smiles. Visitors will visit the Temple of the Emerald Buddha (Wat Pra Kaew), home to the world’s most precious Buddha image, and nearby structures like Borom Phiman Mansion and Dusit Maha Prasat Hall.

A day-trip to the beach town of Pattaya allows a glance at the bucolic lifestyle along Thailand’s coasts. Boat-hopping to the nearby islands of Koh Lan, Ko Sak and Ko Khrok provide access to the area’s amazing undersea coral landscape. A second day-trip from Bangkok takes you to Ratchaburi, site of the popular Damnoen Saduak Floating Market, where a traditional canal-side lifestyle lives on; and the Royal Thai Handicraft Center, where you’ll learn about the Thai carving arts hands-on.

Crossing over to Viet Nam, the itinerary switches to Ho Chi Minh City and its highlights - Notre Dame Cathedral, General Post office, City Hall, Opera house, China Town and Thien Hau temple. The second leg through “Sai Gon” takes you to the Cu Chi Tunnel network outside the city, then back to the city center to visit the War Remnants Museum and the Reunification Palace, at whose gates the last war came to a close.

From Ho Chi Minh City, a day trip to the Mekong region takes us to the mighty Mekong River delta, where Vietnamese traditional life goes on around the canals and nearby Thai Son Island.

Siem Reap, Cambodia represents the last leg of this three-nation tour: formerly home to a mighty Angkor empire, the city today is a jumping-off point to the Tonle Sap lake and its waterborne communities, and the Angkor Temple complex that still awes visitors today.

You’ll spend the last full day of the trip wandering through the latter: watching sunrise at Angkor Wat, then touring Banteay Srei, Bayon, Baphuon, Ta Prohm and other satellite temples in the area.

Angkor Wat, Cambodia. Image © Tourism Authority of Thailand.

BOOK THIS TOUR


52

HIGHLIGHTS OF LAOS & VIET NAM

Hanoi Opera House. Image courtesy of Vietnam National Administration of Tourism.

Take this 11-day/10-night program to see Laos and Viet Nam’s top spots: a study in contrasts that works well together nonetheless!

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HIGHLIGHTSyou’ll visit a Mekong Delta village to experience life as the locals do.

For a complete listing of destinations and experiences in this itinerary, visit this page on SaigonTourist’s official site.

Tap into the sacred when you visit Laos and Viet Nam’s top temple highlights; take in both countries’ traditional crafts, historical remnants, and shopping streets. Both countries may seem different on the surface, but when put together in a single itinerary, Laos and Viet Nam offer a unified front for fun.

The iconic That Luang Stupa in Vientiane, Laos introduces you to a series of compelling structures, including Wat Sisaket which contains remarkable frescoes and 6,840 Buddha statues; Ho Prakeo, site of some of Laos’ finest Buddhist artifacts; and the imposing Patuxay Monument, well known as Vientiane’s own Arc de Triomphe.

Luang Prabang was Laos’ former royal capital, and its temples and other sights reflect its high status in history. 32 temples in the vicinity, including the magnificent Wat Xiengthong; the Royal Palace, converted into Laos’ National Museum; and nearby Mount Phousi, where you can get a bird’s eye view of the city and a dazzling sight of sunset over Luang Prabang. The scenic road to Xiengkhuang passes by hill tribe villages before reaching the site of the Plain of Jars, an impressive archaeological site where hundreds of large stone jars are scattered all over the plateau.

A further drive across the Laos-Viet Nam border takes you to Vinh, where President Ho Chi Minh’s birthplace, Kim Lien Village, stands today – here, century-old farm houses made of bamboo and palm leaves are still being restored. Hanoi’s thousand-year-old streets still recall empires and leaders of the past, from the scenic Hoan Kiem Lake to the Temple of Literature to expansive Ba Dinh Square, around which you’ll find the Presidential Palace, the One Pillar Pagoda, and Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum. Ha Long Bay, the famously scenic body of water, is just a few hours’ drive from the city.

Finally, Ho Chi Minh City – still known to locals as “Saigon” – offers a balance between history and nature. Start by exploring Cu Chi Tunnels, hand-dug by the winning side during the Viet Nam War; and continue through central Saigon’s colonial-era landmarks, among them the Reunification Palace, the Central Post Office, and Dong Khoi Street. Later,

That Luang Temple, Vientiane. Image courtesy of Tourism Laos.

BOOK THIS TOUR

For tour prices, timetables and other important details, contact Saigontourist Travel Service Company; look for Ms Au Uyen Phuong by telephone +84 903709010, email [email protected], or visit their website saigontourist.net.

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12-TO-15-DAYADVENTURESFor travelers with up to three weeks to spare, these itineraries offer a closer look into what makes Southeast Asia so special. Travel through at least three countries and enjoy the best that each destination lays on the table!

55

HEALTH & WELLNESSIN MALAYSIA & SINGAPORE

Mangrove forest along Klim River, Langkawi, Malaysia. Image courtesy of Tourism Malaysia.

City tours and medical checkups? Sunning on the beach and decadent spa sessions? Mix them all up in this experience tailored for the medical tourist – namely this 12-day, 11-night Health & Wellness Tour of Singapore & Malaysia’s top tourist highlights, starting at US$1,988 per person

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HIGHLIGHTSSingapore and Malaysia are two of Southeast Asia’s up-and-coming health and wellness destinations – both have plenty to offer the holistically-inclined traveler. This extensive, all-inclusive tour proves these countries’ health-travel mettle: a luxury itinerary mixing medical check-ups, spa retreats, and day tours located in the following areas of interest:

Kuala Lumpur – Malaysia’s capital, your stop here lays the city’s history and culture bare with a half-day trip through the Istana (Royal Palace), Dataran Merdeka (Independence Square), Chinatown, National Monument, Petronas Twin Towers and Chocolate Boutique. You’ll stay at the Shangri-La Kuala Lumpur through your time here

Genting Highlands – a day tour shows off the best of this gaming getaway high in the mountains

Singapore – stay at Sentosa Island within the Resorts World complex, and pair your stay with a day out at the Universal Studios Singapore, or choose to see other Singapore highlights (the Singapore River cruise; SEA Aquarium & Maritime Museum; Gardens by the Bay, and more)

Ipoh – check in to The Banjaran Hotsprings Retreat, a luxurious spa getaway where the stay includes an aromatherapy massage at its Spa & Wellness Centre; use this stay as a launchpad to a tour of the rest of this historic Malaysian town

Penang – explore George Town and other major tourist stops around the island, and retire to Shangri-La’s Rasa Sayang Resort & Spa’s luxurious amenities afterwards

Langkawi – this island is just a short ferry ride from Penang, and is full of natural wonders, from its scenic shores to its lush mangroves. Check into the beachfront Frangipani Langkawi Resort & Spa to enjoy the island to its fullestThere’s more value in store: stay three nights and pay for only two nights for your stay at any one of the destinations/hotels listed above!

The terms of this promotion are valid only for bookings made before December 31, 2017. Other terms and conditions apply.

The complete package starts at US$1,988, is all inclusive, and covers the following:

• 12Days 11Nights accommodation in Malaysia + Singapore• Daily hotel breakfast• Basic Health Screening Package• City Tour as per itinerary• Return hospital transfer• Return airport transfer• Flight ticket KUL/SIN/IPH-PEN/LGK/KUL (lowest class) • 6% GST

Genting Highlands, Malaysia. Image courtesy of Tourism Malaysia.

BOOK THIS TOURFor terms & conditions and other important details, contact Asian Overland Services via email: [email protected], by phone at +60 (0) 3 12 289 2448 or +60 (0) 3 4252 9100, or on their site asianoverland.com.my.

57

SKYSCRAPERS AND TEMPLES TOUR

Angkor Wat from above. Image courtesy the Cambodia Ministry of Tourism

This 12 day/11 night tour works its way from hyper-modern Singapore to charmingly laid-back Cambodia – with all these contrasts, you’ll find the soul of Southeast Asia somewhere in between!

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HIGHLIGHTSSpend twelve days working your way through some of Southeast Asia’s most radically different cities, from Singapore’s cutting-edge modernity to Siem Reap’s laid-back charm set amidst ancient temples:

Singapore: one of Southeast Asia’s most forward-looking cities offers a number of surprises – from Southeast Asia’s first zoo for nocturnal animals, the Singapore Night Safari; to the ultra-modern Gardens by the Bay housing thousands of plants from ecosystems around the world (the scenic SuperTrees are a must-see); to its city streets combining colonial British architecture with the most cutting-edge building designs in the world

Kuala Lumpur: Malaysia’s capital offers a whirlwind view of history and culture with tours through its historic city center (combining century-old architecture and iconic new buildings like the Petronas Twin Towers); and visits to the countryside around the metropolis

Siem Reap: once the capital of the mighty Angkor empire, today it’s a launchpad to the Tonle Sap lake and its waterborne communities; cultural experiences like the Rosana Broadway and the Angkor Silk Farm, and of course the majestic temples left standing around the Angkor temple complex

Phnom Penh: Cambodia’s present capital features a mix of ancient and modern attractions, including (but not limited to) the Royal Palace, which you can explore at your leisure

Marina Bay from above. Image courtesy of Mike Aquino.

BOOK THIS TOURFor tour prices, timetables and other important details, contact Sedunia Travel Services Sdn. Bhd.by telephone +60 (0) 3-2148 4566,email [email protected], or visit their website www.seduniatravel.com.

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SIX CITIES, 12 DAYS TOUR

Strand Road in Yangon, Myanmar. Image courtesy of Mike Aquino.

A 12-day, 11-night exploration of six of Southeast Asia’s most vibrant cities: Yangon in Myanmar; Chiang Mai in Thailand; Luang Prabang in Laos Siem Reap and Phnom Penh in Cambodia; and Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) in Viet Nam

In the span of 12 days, you’ll explore six cities in Southeast Asia that exemplify the best of the region’s history and culture.

Yangon in Myanmar has the largest number of well-preserved colonial buildings in all of Southeast Asia, all accessible in the city centre courtesy of a tour curated by the Yangon Heritage Trust (YHT). The tour covers a side trip to Bogyoke Aung San market, where you can purchase traditional Myanmar handicrafts or gem stones like rubies, sapphires and jade.

Outshining them all is the Shwedagon pagoda, a massive gold-plated stupa that dominates the Yangon skyline. The stupa reputedly contains relics from the four past Buddhas, commanding the devotion of Buddhist Myanmar citizens from all over.

HIGHLIGHTS

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Chiang Mai in Thailand combines the best of Thai architecture and hands-on culture: the magnificent Doi Suthep Temple (Mountain Top Pagoda) with its panoramic view of the city; Sankampaeng district’s shopping and sightseeing opportunities; and handicraft villages creating and selling fine Thai products like silk, celadon ceramics, lacquer ware, jewelry, teakwood ware, and silver.

Luang Prabang in Laos is the country’s cultural capital and launching pad to a number of nature- and culture-based adventures.

Explore Luang Prabang’s most notable landmarks, among them Wat Xieng Thong and the magnificent Royal Palace turned National Museum. Buy traditional handmade fabric at the famous Night Market. Have a close encounter with pachyderms at the Elephant Village. And participate in a Tak Bat, or morning almsgiving to the local monks.

Siem Reap in Cambodia is renowned for its Angkor temple complex – a tour of Bayon, Phimeanakas, Ta Prohm and Angkor Wat is a highlight of your stay here. Its cultural attractions are also worth seeing: you’ll visit Artisan D’ Angkor, a sculpture handicraft center specializing in Angkor-style works.

Phnom Penh is Cambodia’s present capital, and features a mix of ancient and modern attractions: the Royal Palace & Silver Pagoda (with a floor composed of over 5,000 silver tiles); the Independence Monument; the sorrowful Toul Sleng genocide museum; and lastly, the Naga World Casino Resort, where you can test you relationship with Lady Luck!

Finally, Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) in Viet Nam hallows several turning points in it’s nation’s history: a former French colonial entrepot, a Cold War capital, and the site where the Viet Nam War ended.

Its past is recalled through sites scattered around Ho Chi Minh City: the Cu Chi Tunnels, built by the Viet Minh fighting against the French; colonial heritage structures like the Independence Palace, Notre Dame Church, the Post Office, and City Hall; and markets like Binh Tay wholesale market, An Dong market, and Ben Thanh night market.

BOOK THIS TOUR

For tour prices, timetables and other important details, contact Mira Travels & Enterprises Ltd. by telephone+95 9 5152516, 95 9 976880244, [email protected] or visit their website www.miramyanmartravel.com

Tak bat almsgiving in Luang Prabang, Laos. Image courtesy of Tourism Laos.War Remnants Museum, Ho Chi Minh City, Viet Nam. Image courtesy of Mike Aquino.

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COASTAL PATHS FROM MYANMARTO THAILAND

Shwedagon Pagoda, Yangon, Myanmar. Image © Tourism Authority of Thailand.

This 12-day, 11-night tour runs the gamut, from Yangon’s gold-topped urban chaos to the Mergui Archipelago’s pristine marine seascapes to Khao Sok National Park unspoiled jungle wilderness.

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HIGHLIGHTSYangon is Myanmar’s commercial and cultural heart: the capital’s move elsewhere has hardly dimmed its charm.

From your Yangon hotel you’ll take two days to make the rounds of the city’s treasures: Kandawgyi Park, one of central Yangon’s greenest spots; Thiri Migalar Market, a massive produce market on the banks of the Hlaing River; and especially the gold-covered Shwedagon Pagoda, Yangon’s most sacred piece of real estate. You’ll experience Yangon life as the locals live it as you walk among them.

A three-hour walking tour of downtown Yangon caps your visit to the capital, covering buildings on the Yangon City Heritage List: City Hall, the former Minister’s office where General Aung San was assassinated, and Sule Paya among them.

The next stage of the journey takes you to the port town of Kawthaung, and from there to Southeast Asia’s undiscovered diving paradise, the Mergui Archipelago. Through a five-night cruise among the archipelago’s islands, you’ll cross paths with Moken sea gypsies; ride a dinghy into mangrove forests; go snorkelling in crystal-clear shallows; and watch bioluminescent plankton light up the night.

Upon your return in Kawthaung, entry into Thailand requires simply crossing the Pakchan River to Ranong on the Thai side of the border.

The last leg of the trip takes you into Khao Sok National Park, where close encounters with the wild are all in a day’s work: elephant bathing and feeding; getting lost amidst mangrove thickets and banyan tree branches; meeting dusky langurs, long-tail macaques, and hornbills in their native habitat; and learning about the forest’s secrets from local guides.

Surat Thani, Thailand. Image © Tourism Authority of Thailand.

BOOK THIS TOURFor tour prices, timetables and other important details, contact EXOTravel by telephone +66 (0) 2 633 9060 or visit their website exotravel.com.

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EXPLORING THE ELEPHANT KINGDOMS:THAILAND AND LAOSA 12-day, 11-night saga that runs through two ancient Southeast Asian kingdoms – Thailand and Laos – across grand temples and quaint riverside villages alike

Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, Chiang Mai, Thailand. Image © Tourism Authority of Thailand.

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HIGHLIGHTSOn the way to Laos’ capital Vientiane, you’ll stop for a cruising tour at Nam Ngum Lake, a vast artificial lake with many small islands. In the capital itself, you’ll see culture colliding with history through visits to Wat Sisaket, Vientiane’s oldest-surviving monastery; Pha That Luang, a national symbol of Laos; Patouxai, Vientiane’s take on the Arc de Triomphe; and finally, Buddha Park, a quirky assemblage of 200 fantastically-designed concrete statues.

Beginning in Thailand’s capital Bangkok, you’ll set off on a city tour with a twist – ride the city’s traditional transportation on the way to its best-known and lesser-explored sights, like the Jim Thompson House, a stunning example of traditional Thai architecture; the Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew within it; and Wat Pho, home to a famous massage school and a 46-metre-long reclining Buddha.

Next up – Chiang Mai, in northern Thailand, where traditional Lanna ways persist and can be experienced through the Home Hosted Meals program. At San Ton Pao Village, you’ll enter your Thai host’s home and share a meal served on a footed tray, known as a khan tok. On the way to your next stop, you’ll stop by Wat Rong Khun, the “White Temple” whose color symbolizes the purity of the Buddha, before arriving at the Golden Triangle view point, where the borders of three countries (Thailand, Laos and Burma) meet.

From this point, Laos is just a short drive across the Mekong River. Start your Laos experience by visiting a Yao or Lu village on the riverbank, picnicking near the Mekong’s bank, and spending the night at Pakbeng.

Making your way downriver, you’ll pass by the Pak Ou Caves before arriving at the laidback town of Luang Prabang, whose golden temples serve as a gorgeous backdrop to a number of local adventures.

Visit the villages inhabited by Luang Prabang’s three most prominent ethnic cultures: the H’mong, Khmu and Lao Loum. Explore Luang Prabang’s top landmarks, among them Wat Xieng Thong and the magnificent Royal Palace. Take a swim at the crystal-clear Kuang Si Waterfall. And participate in a Tak Bat, or morning almsgiving to the local monks.

The next stop – the idyllic town of Vang Vieng – is an ideal launching pad for a number of natural and cultural exploits, among them kayaking on the Nam Song River; exploring the gigantic Tham None Cave; and visiting an organic farm to enjoy their mulberry tea and fruit wines.

BOOK THIS TOURFor tour prices, timetables and other important details, contact Buffalo Tours by email [email protected], or visit their website www.buffalotours.com.

Image © Tourism Authority of Thailand.

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12-DAY VIET NAM AND CAMBODIA TREK

Hotel de Ville, Ho Chi Minh City. Image courtesy of the Vietnam National Administration of Tourism.

A 12-day trip through the exotic wonders and stunning historic cities of Viet Nam and Cambodia.

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HIGHLIGHTSYour first destination is the Vietnamese capital of Hanoi, which exudes its own old world charm with its striking colonial architecture and vibrant streets.

Then, head out of town to Halong Bay where you can take in the jaw-dropping view aboard a traditional boat. Your overnight stay onboard will be filled with the sight of more than a thousand limestone islands rising out of emerald waters, hidden coves, and towering cliffs.

You’ll also take a cruise in the old imperial capital of Hue on the scenic Perfume River. Riverside attractions include Thien Mu Pagoda and the intricately designed mausoleums of past emperors. On the way to Hoi An, you’ll make your way up the winding Hai Van pass that overlooks stunning views of peaks and coastline.

More ancient and colonial architecture abound in alluring Hoi An, where you’ll see lovely centuries-old houses and Chinese temples that reflect the blend of different cultures.

From the tranquility of Hoi An, you’ll then get jolted with crowds and motorbikes in the mad rush in Ho Chi Minh City. Aside from visiting the city’s major attractions of historic buildings, temples, and marketplaces, you’ll see the legendary underground tunnels in Cu Chi and navigate around the Mekong Delta’s many rivers and swamps aboard a boat.

Your final stops are Phnom Penh and Siem Reap, where the Cambodian cities provide a captivating glimpse into the country’s history—most notably in the ancient city of Angkor. You’ll have two days exploring enchanting Angkor Wat, Bayon, and the other remnants of the old Khmer empire. A boat trip out on the famed Tonle Sap river completes the excursion.

Cave in Ha Long Bay. Image courtesy of the Vietnam National Administration of Tourism.

BOOK THIS TOUR

DANHNAM TRAVEL 585 Kim Ma, Ngoc Khanh, Ba Dinh, Hanoi. Tel: +84-4 37669 669Fax: +84-4 32115089Website: www.danhnamtravel.com.vn

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12-DAY INDOCHINA DISCOVERY

Birds on Tonle Sap, Cambodia. Image courtesy of the Cambodia Ministry of Tourism.

Take this 12-day/11-night tour through the culture, history and natural wonders of Viet Nam, Laos and Cambodia

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HIGHLIGHTSStart off your exploration of the beautiful Indochina region from one of its loveliest colonial cities, Hanoi. At the Vietnamese capital, you will experience a traditional Cyclo ride through its most picturesque areas before visiting some of the city’s important landmarks and watching a Water Puppet Show.

You will also get to discover the rural life surrounding the Red River Delta in the ancient village of Duong Lam where you can enjoy some local tea at Viet Nam’s oldest Tea House.

Your atmospheric journey through Viet Nam continues in Halong Bay with an overnight cruise that takes you to a secluded cave, a white sandy beach, a fishing village, and some fascinating rock formations. Watch the sun rise over the bay from the deck of your boat – quite a sight to behold.

You’ll then fly to Laos, where the ancient city of Luang Prabang will charm you to no end. Visit the elegant Wat Xiengthong, Wat Phabat Tai, the Hmong market, and Phousi Hill where you can take in a panoramic view of the town.

You’ll also get to enjoy an excursion out of the city and into different rural Lao villages with side trips to rivers, caves, and the spectacular Kuangsi Waterfall where you’ll be served your picnic lunch.

From one beautiful ancient city to the next: head off to Siem Reap, where you’ll spend two days exploring the many centuries-old temples within the Angkor complex: Angkor Wat, Ta Prohm, Banteay Srei, and the ruined ancient capital of Angkor Thom.

You’ll also get to watch the bucolic scenery around Tonle Sap, the biggest freshwater lake in Southeast Asia, as you take a boat trip to a floating village. You’ll end your trip back in Siem Reap, where you can take a stroll along Pub Street and Old Market for some local food, souvenirs, and people watching.


BOOK THIS TOUR

For tour prices, timetables and other important details, contact Indocharm Travel by telephone +84 (0) 43 3927 5182,email [email protected] or visit their website www.indochinacharm.com.

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VIET NAM AND MYANMAR BY AIR

Mandalay Royal Palace, Myanmar. Image courtesy of Mike Aquino.

Take to the skies in this 12-day/11-night trip through Viet Nam and Myanmar’s top tourist spots

Air travel makes short work of the widely-spaced destinations in this two-country itinerary, which divides your time between the temples, lakes and ancient cities of Viet Nam; and the stupas, markets and palaces of Myanmar.

Begin at Ho Chi Minh City, the former capital of half of a once-divided nation: you’ll watch a water puppet show beloved to locals; explore Cu Chi Tunnels, hand-dug by the winning side during the Viet Nam War; and wander through central Saigon’s colonial-era landmarks, among them the Reunification Palace, the Central Post Office, and Dong Khoi Street.

You’ll take to the air afterward, landing at Da Nang and taking a short drive to Hoi An, where you’ll walk through the Old Quarter down streets that have hardly changed for 300 years. Take your time visiting each of Hoi An’s temples, communal houses, and local before relaxing on a nearby beach.

HIGHLIGHTS

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Travel to Hue, where 13 Nguyen Emperors once ruled all of Viet Nam. Start at the Royal Citadel along the Huong River, first built in 1803. Further from the Citadel, you’ll see Thien Mu Pagoda and several tombs in the hinterlands where the Emperors were laid to rest.

Ha Long Bay takes you on a traditional-style wooden boat for a 4-hour cruise around the area’s strange-shaped island landscape.

Hanoi has stood in this spot for over a thousand years, and its landmarks recall its long history – from the scenic Hoan Kiem Lake to the Temple of Literature to expansive Ba Dinh Square, around which you’ll find the Presidential Palace, the One Pillar Pagoda, and Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum.

From Hanoi, you’ll take another long leap, this time across the border to Yangon, the capital of Myanmar. The Sule Pagoda and Shwedagon Pagoda both trace their history back over 2,000 years, far outreaching the British colonial buildings in the city center. Explore the city’s museums, pagodas, and markets for a first-hand look at the city’s history and culture.

Bagan takes you back in time as well, to the Pagan Empire that once flourished in this area over 800 years ago. Over 2,000 temples still stand scattered around Bagan’s arid plain, among them Shwezigon Pagoda, built by King Anawrahta in the early 11th century; Ku Byauk Gyi, a temple with exquisite murals; and Ananda Temple with its four huge standing-Buddha images arranged around an interior gallery.

Finally, Mandalay recalls the glory of the last Myanmar royal dynasty, which ruled here until the British overran the country. The royal influence can still be felt in landmarks like the Mahamuni Pagoda, home to a statue believed to be the most ancient image of Lord Buddha; and Mandalay Palace, a reconstructed royal home in the city’s very center.



BOOK THIS TOUR

For tour prices, timetables and other important details, contact Saigontourist Travel Service Company; look for Ms Au Uyen Phuong by telephone +84 903709010,email [email protected],or visit their website saigontourist.net.

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CULTURAL RICHESTHROUGH THREE COUNTRIES

Bayon Temples, Siem Reap, Cambodia. Image courtesy of Ministry of Tourism Cambodia.

This 13 day/12 night tour crosses three countries, taking its travelers deep into the region’s history and culture as seen through key cities across Singapore, Malaysia and Cambodia

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HIGHLIGHTSSpend the better part of two weeks winding through some of Southeast Asia’s top cities, in a trail that takes you from Singapore through Malaysia and Cambodia –


Penang: the British transformed this island into one of their finest trading ports in Southeast Asia – you’ll rediscover this history through a tour of buildings around George Town, the hills and temples in the hinterlands, and amazing street food that draws eaters from all around Asia Kuala Lumpur: Malaysia’s capital offers a whirlwind view of history and culture with tours through its historic city center (combining century-old architecture and iconic new buildings like the Petronas Twin Towers), best seen on a night tour that concludes with a buffet dinner and cultural show; and visits to Kuala Selangor nature reserve beyond the city


Phnom Penh: Cambodia’s present capital features a mix of ancient and modern attractions, including (but not limited to) the Royal Palace, which you can explore at your leisure

Trishaw in Penang, Malaysia. Image courtesy of Tourism Malaysia.

BOOK THIS TOURFor tour prices, timetables and other important details, contact Sedunia Travel Services Sdn. Bhd.by telephone +60 (0) 3-2148 4566,email [email protected], or visit their website www.seduniatravel.com.

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LAOS, VIET NAM & CAMBODIA’S MEKONG MARVELS

Boat ride in My Tho. Image © Mack Male/Creative Commons.

A 14-day sojourn through Laos, Viet Nam, and Cambodia mostly on board a luxurious boutique cruise ship along the Mekong River.

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HIGHLIGHTSBefore sailing aboard the comfortable RV Mekong Prestige II to discover old world charm, idyllic life in remote villages, and Southeast Asian hospitality, you’ll spend five days in Luang Prabang and Vientiane.

Lose your sense of time in the World Heritage city of Luang Prabang where you will delight in the panoramic view atop Phousy Hill, gape at Vat Xieng Thong and other exquisite temples, and visit local villages of Lao ethnic minority groups on the way to the must-see Kuangsi Waterfalls.

In Vientiane, you will see the highlights of the vibrant capital with a visit to its temples and a stroll along its riverside promenade.

Next, fly off to Viet Nam where you get to stay the night at Ho Chi Minh City, take in the sights at your own leisure before leaving the following day to the gateway into the Mekong, My Tho.

From My Tho, you’ll ride a cruise ship heading to different villages along the Mekong (and getting to know what river life is like): the charming small town of Cai Be for its floating market and French Gothic Cathedral; the sprawling town of Sa Dec, where French writer Marguerite Duras spent parts of her childhood; to the remote town of Tan Chau for a visit in a silk weaving workshop.

When the cruise reaches Cambodia, you’ll stop at the capital city of Phnom Penh for the Royal Palace and other historic and cultural sights; the craft village of Koh Chong, known for its silk weaving; the former capital city of Oudong for its numerous hilltop stupas; the ancient Wat Kampong Leu Pagoda at Kampong Tralach; the rural port town of Kampong Chhnang to visit its authentic floating village and scenic marketplace.

In between boarding the cruise ship, you’ll also get to experience riding small local boats to navigate the river’s smaller canals and rides on a rickshaw and ox-drawn carriage

Temple in Oudong, Cambodia. Image © Julien Texier/Creative Commons.

BOOK THIS TOUR

For tour prices, timetables and other important details, contact ARASA Tour by telephone (+856) 21 213633-4, email [email protected] or visit their website http://www.arasa-tour-laos.com.

Meals during the cruise will all be on board.

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CITY-TO-COUNTRY EXCURSION

Friends hanging out in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Image courtesy of Malaysia Tourism.

This 14 day/13 night tour takes you into the heart of three countries in Southeast Asia and the best they have to offer: from Singapore’s cutting-edge modernity to Viet Nam’s appeal for nature and history buffs

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HIGHLIGHTS

Ha Long Bay, Viet Nam. Image courtesy of the Vietnam National Authority of Tourism.

Southeast Asia’s cities – while wonderful on their own – also serve as great springboards to adventure in the countryside. See this for yourself when you visit these major metropolises, and follow the roads out to the islands and hinterlands into adventure:


Kuala Lumpur: Malaysia’s capital offers a whirlwind view of history and culture with tours through its historic city center (combining century-old architecture and iconic new buildings like the Petronas Twin Towers), best seen on a night tour that concludes with a buffet dinner and cultural show; and visits to Kuala Selangor nature reserve beyond the city

Hanoi: The Vietnamese capital is a stepping stone to a number of historical and natural wonders, from Hoa Lu Ancient Capital to the scenic Bich Dong Pagoda to the romantic Trang An Grottoes.

Ha Long Bay: rain and tides have carved the local karst landscape into something approaching a fevered fantasy – gently curving islands jut out of the sea, marked by caves, coves and towering spires – you’ll enjoy the view while cruising through these waters

Ho Chi Minh City: formerly the capital of half of a divided nation, its attractions still hearken back to its colonial days – buildings in the city center like the Notre Dame Cathedral, General Post office, and City Hall; the Cu Chi Tunnel network outside the city; and the Mekong River delta, where Vietnamese traditional life goes on around the canals and nearby Thai Son Island.

BOOK THIS TOUR

For tour prices, timetables and other important details, contact Sedunia Travel Services Sdn. Bhd. by telephone+60 (0) 3-2148 4566,email [email protected], or visit their website www.seduniatravel.com.

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FUN IN THE CITY – SINGAPORE, KUALA LUMPUR, BANGKOK

Art display on Orchard Road, Singapore. Image courtesy of Mike Aquino.

This 14 day/13 night tour places you right in the heart of the action: Southeast Asia’s top three cities where the sun never sets on shopping, adventure and fun!

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HIGHLIGHTSSoutheast Asia’s cities never sleep! Singapore, Kuala Lumpur and Bangkok show you so much fun that you’ll need a straight two weeks to catch the best bits of all these major metropolises:

In Singapore, you’ll find a wealth of attractions native to one of Southeast Asia’s most forward-looking cities: from innovative zoos like the Jurong Bird Park and the Singapore Night Safari; to the ultra-modern Gardens by the Bay housing thousands of plants from ecosystems around the world (the scenic SuperTrees are a must-see); to its fun-packed Sentosa Island resort and theme park district that take a full day to explore in its entirety!

In Kuala Lumpur you’ll undergo a whirlwind view of culture and nature worthy of Malaysia’s capital: cruising near Mines Resort and Putrajaya; dinner high above the city at KL Tower; fun at the Sunway Lagoon theme park; and visits to Kuala Selangor nature reserve beyond the city

Finally, in Bangkok you’ll find an experience worthy of a royal capital – kicking off your tour with a dinner cruise down the Chao Phraya River, you’ll spend a few days exploring highlights like the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market, Safari World & Marine Park, and the Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew, before spending a full day at Khao Yai National Park (elephant rides and all) and winding up your trip with a buffet dinner overlooking the city from Baiyoke Sky Hotel.

Chao Praya River, Thailand. Image © Tourism Authority of Thailand

BOOK THIS TOURFor tour prices, timetables and other important details, contact Sedunia Travel Services Sdn. Bhd. by telephone+60 (0) 3-2148 4566, email [email protected],or visit their website www.seduniatravel.com.

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FOOTSTEPS OF THE MASTERS GRAND GOLF TOUR

Black Mountain Golf Club in Hua Hin, Thailand. Image courtesy of Tourism Authority of Thailand.

A 15-day, 14-night golf tour through Kuala Lumpur in Malaysia and Hua Hin and Bangkok in Thailand, combining highlights from both country’s capitals and long, leisurely days golfing at some of these cities’ top golf & country clubs

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HIGHLIGHTSThe days are long and the fairways seem to go on forever, but this 15-day tour of Malaysia and Thailand’s top golf courses will help you improve your handicap within some of Southeast Asia’s most gorgeous landscapes.

In Kuala Lumpur, spend the first six days of this tour making the rounds of the Malaysian capital’s most historic courses:

• The parkland-style Kuala Lumpur Golf & Country Club, East Course, host of Sime Darby LPGA tournament;

• The Ross Watson-designed Kota Permai Golf & Country Club, a multi-awarded course that recently hosted the Malaysian Open;

• The Saujana Golf & Country Club, Bunga Raya Course, a local favorite nicknamed “the Crocodile”;

• and the Mines Resort & Golf Club, a beautiful course built on what was once the largest open cast tin mine in the world.

Your KL stop includes a tour of the capital’s highlights, including the Petronas Twin Towers, Petaling Street and surrounding Chinatown, Little India, and other top city stops.

The next stop on this tour is one of Thailand’s oldest resort towns. Golf found a foothold in Thailand via Hua Hin, where the first golf course in the nation was completed in 1942. Here you’ll spend a few days teeing off at:

• The renowned Banyan Golf Club, a “Rolex Top 1000” course with a signature 15th hole overlooking the Gulf of Thailand; and

• Black Mountain Golf Club, a challenging playing ground for Asian PGA and Thailand Classic golf tournaments.

Finally, you’ll shift your game to Thailand’s capital Bangkok and its surrounding golf courses:

Banyan Golf Club in Hua Hin, Thailand. Image courtesy of Tourism Authority of Thailand.

BOOKTHIS TOUR

For tour prices, timetables and other important details, contact Golfasian Co., Ltd. by telephone +66 (0) 714 8470, or visit their website golfasian.com.

• Suwan Golf & Country Club, proving ground for 2011 Thailand Open set amidst fruit orchards, rice fields, palm trees, and lotus ponds;

• Thana City Golf & Sports Club, a Greg Norman-designed course featuring plenty of variety for golfers of all classes; and

• Thai Country Club, a five-star course and site of PGA wins by Tiger Woods & Vijay Singh.

The last leg includes a tour of Bangkok’s tourist highlights, covering (among others) the Grand Palace, Wat Phra Kaew, and a ride down Bangkok waterways on a long-tailed boat.

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LAOS & VIET NAM FOR THE BODY & SOUL

Notre Dame Cathedral, Ho Chi Minh City, Viet Nam. Image courtesy of Mike Aquino

An epic 15-day/14-night tour of Laos and Viet Nam that will strengthen your body and nourish your spirit.

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HIGHLIGHTSFor a life-altering change in perspective, this two-week trip through the best of Laos and Viet Nam may be just what the doctor ordered.

Arrive at Luang Prabang and experience the former capital’s restorative atmosphere as you stop and see the city’s most beautiful sights, including Wat Xiengthong, with its roofs sweeping low to the ground. End the first day of your journey up on Phousi Mountain to view your first Luang Prabang sunset. Your next week in Laos will have you encountering more of its quiet beauty: in the limestone karst views from Phatang Mountain and around the Nam Song River as you relax in the backpackertown of Vang Vieng; in the sacred sites around Vientiane, beginning with Wat Sisaket and its thousands of miniature Buddha statues and the iconic structure of That Luang Stupa; in a meal overlooking the picturesque lake, Nam Ngum; in a trip to the Bolaven Plateau, high above the Mekong Valley, with its waterfalls and tea and coffee plantations.

You will also get to enjoy the island life around the Mekong River as you spend two nights in Don Khong, renowned for its 4,000 islands. You’ll take a tail boat tour to the more serene Don Khone island (compared to backpacker favorite Don Dhet), which provides an authentic Lao experience. Upon returning to the mainland, you’ll get to visit Khone Phapheng Waterfalls, Southeast Asia’s largest waterfalls with its series of cascading falls and rapids.

Your next stop is Ho Chi Minh City, where it seems the noise of the millions of motorbikes will make it hard for you to find some calm. However, a morning stroll outside the Notre Dame Cathedral and some time spent within the walls of the War Museum and Reunification Palace can often reveal moments of peace.

HCMC will be your base as you travel down to the Mekong Delta for a day-trip of floating markets and to the coastal city of Phan Tiet and the resort town of Mui Ne to unwind as your journey comes to a blissful end.

Khone Phapheng Waterfall. Image (c) Nick Hubbard/Creative Commons

BOOK THIS TOUR

For tour prices, timetables and other important details, contact Viengchampa Tour by telephone (+856) 21 262041, email [email protected] or visit their website www.viengchampatour.com.

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ROADS & RIVERSTHROUGH NORTH VIET NAM & LAOS

Hoa Lu gateway, Viet Nam. Image © TTAIYO/Creative Commons.

This wide-ranging 15-day/14-night itinerary takes you down Viet Nam and Laos’ far-flung roads and rivers on an adventure you won’t soon forget

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HIGHLIGHTS

Shores of Nong Khiew, Laos. Image © Thierry LeClerc/Creative Commons

Traveling to villages by riverboat; riding a cyclo through busy cities; and driving through winding roads overlooking dramatic mountain views – this itinerary answers your need for adventure! You’ll start at Hanoi in Viet Nam, touring the thousand-year-old city and its highlights: the Ethnology Museum, which gives you an introduction to Viet Nam’s recognized ethnic groups; Hoan Kiem Lake, whose wide promenade surrounding the waters are an endless hub of activity, among others. Beyond Hanoi, you’ll learn about the local history at the ancient town of Hoa Lu in Ninh Binh. At Halong Bay, you’ll board the Halong Majestic Cruise to see the many limestone islets towering over the emerald waters. You can swim and explore the bay, kayak to a nearby fishing village, visit a pearl farm, or just watch the sun set and rise over this magical place.

More magic awaits in Sapa. The mountain town of terraced rice fields is home to many ethnic minorities. You’ll stop at Muong Hoa, considered Sapa’s most beautiful valley, to visit the Ta Van village of Zay people. Visits to more tribal villages and driving through dramatic landscapes of mountain ranges are in store on the way to the historic towns of Phong Tho and Dien Bien.

After crossing the border to Laos, your adventure will take you sailing and visiting the countryside, while participating in the daily activities of the villagers. You’ll also get to spend some time on a beach and have a picnic as you make your way to Nong Khiew, a small town on the Nam Ou River that offers a gorgeous views of limestone mountains.

You will end your journey in the lovely city of Luang Prabang, where time seems to have stopped. You can explore the city at your leisure on your first day and then head up to Mount Phousi, where you can see the UNESCO World Heritage Site spread out below you.

BOOK THIS TOURFor tour prices, timetables and other important details, contact ARASA Tour by telephone (+856) 21 213633-4, email [email protected] or visit their website http://www.arasa-tour-laos.com.

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RIVER TRAVELS TO JUNGLE VILLAGES

One Pillar Pagoda, Hanoi, Viet Nam. Image courtesy of Mike Aquino

A 15-day/14-night journey from Viet Nam to Laos that will take you on all local modes of transportation in pursuit of the region’s amazing cultural experiences

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HIGHLIGHTS

Nam Ou River. Image (c) Ben Klocek/Creative Commons.

Imagine the wide range of adventures you can have throughout Laos and Viet Nam with fifteen days.

In Viet Nam’s scooter-packed capital of Hanoi, you’ll spend the afternoon taking in the sights of the Old Quarter from a cyclo, after visiting the lovely Hoan Kiem Lake nearby.

In the ancient town of Hoa Lua, you’ll make the rounds of its temples and the country’s biggest pagoda before enjoying a hand-rowed sampan ride on Ngo Dong River to gaze at limestone cliffs set against a backdrop of rice paddies.

In Halong Bay, you’ll board a “junk” to go on a cruise amidst the picturesque limestone islands - to swim, explore the bay, relax, kayak to a floating fishing village, enjoy a Tai Chi lesson during sunrise, even join a cooking class!

In Sapa, you’ll disembark from an overnight train from Hanoi to dive head-first into a mountain town called home by different ethnicities – the H’mong and Zay among them – who can be seen in their traditional clothing selling their handwoven pieces at the local market.

Near the Viet Nam and Laos border, you’ll take on an epic road and river trip that takes you on a boat down the Nam Na River to Dien Bien, where you’ll experience more of Viet Nam’s unique ethnic minority villages; cruise up the Nam Ou river in Laos to enjoy home-cooked meals with local villagers; hike through the forest to the H’mong village of Ban Pha Yong; and have a swim and a picnic near the village of Sop Khan.

And in Luang Prabang, you’ll see why this ancient royal capital of Laos is considered one of the loveliest in Southeast Asia. Stroll along picturesque alleys, tree-lined boulevards with French colonial villas, and take in the dreamy mood. Pay visit to the waterfall of Kuang Si, more handicraft villages, and take the stairs up the sacred mountain of Phousi to get an eyeful of the magnificent view.

BOOK THIS TOUR

For tour prices, timetables and other important details, contact ARASA Tour by telephone (+856) 21 213633-4, email [email protected] or visit their website http://www.arasa-tour-laos.com.

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ADVENTURESOF OVER 16 DAYSFor dedicated travelers only! These itineraries let you take your sweet time through several Southeast Asian countries: every stop is an immersion into the magic, mystery and wonder of the region as a whole

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16-DAY GRAND INDOCHINA TOUR

Hue royal tomb, Viet Nam. Image courtesy of Vietnam National Administration of Tourism

This 16 day/15 night itinerary winds through three countries, exploring their highlights in depth; you’ll never forget the first-hand experiences you’ll find in these stops

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HIGHLIGHTS

In Hue, you’ll find remnants of the Nguyen Dynasty along the Huong River and the foothills surrounding the city – the Citadel where the emperors were enthroned, and the tombs in the hinterlands where they were laid to rest.In Ho Chi Minh City, you’ll visit the last traces of French colonial rule in Viet Nam, many clustered around the city center – the Post Office and Reunification Palace among them.

At Siem Reap, your first stop in Cambodia, you’ll see the mighty Khmer Kings’ handiwork, still standing centuries after their builders vanished from posterity: the 12th century temples of Angkor Wat and the city of Angkor Thom call for several days’ exploring for you to uncover all their secrets.

Finally, in Phnom Penh, you’ll find yourself in the center of Cambodia’s bustling capital, with key landmarks like the Russian Market, Royal Palace and Wat Phnom Temple within easy reach.


There are countless experiences you can have in this sixteen-day grand tour of Laos, Viet Nam and Cambodia’s highlights: some will dazzle you momentarily, others will change the way you see Indochina for good.

In Vientiane, the capital of Laos, you’ll lose count of the Buddha statues (6,840 in all) preserved in Wat Sisaket, and stand in the shadow of the imposing Patuxay Monument, better known as Vientiane’s own Arc de Triomphe.

In Luang Prabang, you’ll tour the well-preserved city streets, and walk 328 steps up Mount Phousi for a magnificent sunset view of the city and the Mekong River flowing through it. If you’re an early riser, you’ll watch saffron-clad monks parading down the street to collect alms from devotees. Further along the roads radiating away from the city, you’ll visit craft villages to watch traditional Sa paper and local fabrics being made.

Down the Mekong River, you’ll explore the mysterious Pak Ou Caves and wonder at the thousands of gold-lacquered Buddha statues clustered within. At the river’s delta, you’ll experience local village life and eat as the villagers do. In Hanoi, the capital of Viet Nam, you’ll see a thousand years of Vietnamese national history flash before your eyes, as you visit ancient structures like the Temple of Literature and the One-Pillared Pagoda, and more contemporary structures like the Historical Museum and Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum.

In Ha Long Bay, you’ll board a traditional-style wooden boat for a 4-hour cruise around the area’s strange-shaped islands and magical grottoes within.

In Hoi An, you’ll walk streets that have hardly changed for 300 years, and stroll around the area’s temples, communal houses, and shops before relaxing on a nearby beach.

BOOK THIS TOUR

For tour prices, timetables and other important details, contact Saigontourist Travel Service Company; look for Ms Au Uyen Phuong by telephone +84 903709010,email [email protected], or visit their website saigontourist.net.

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SOUTHEAST ASIA OVERLOAD

Kampong Glam, Singapore. Image courtesy of the Singapore Tourism Board.

This 18 day/17 night epic tour of Southeast Asia covers the region’s most snap-happy spots: selfie your way through Singapore; Kuala Lumpur in Malaysia; Hanoi, Ha Long Bay and Ho Chi Minh City in Viet Nam; and Pattaya and Bangkok in Thailand

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HIGHLIGHTSIf you have 18 days to spare, take on this trip of epic proportions: you’ll begin in Singapore, time-travel through Kuala Lumpur, Hanoi, and Ho Chi Minh City, and take in the great views from Ha Long Bay and Pattaya. Take on each of the following destinations in turn –


Kuala Lumpur: Malaysia’s capital offers a whirlwind view of history and culture with tours through its historic city center (combining century-old architecture and iconic new buildings like the Petronas Twin Towers), best seen on a night tour that concludes with a buffet dinner and cultural show; and visits to the countryside



Ho Chi Minh City: formerly the capital of half of a divided nation, its attractions still hearken back to its colonial days – buildings in the city center like the Notre Dame Cathedral, General Post office, and City Hall; the Cu Chi Tunnel network outside the city; and the Mekong River delta, where Vietnamese traditional life goes on around the canals and nearby Thai Son Island.

Pattaya: this resort town has plenty to recommend it beyond its beaches: orchids at the Nong Nooch Tropical Garden; boat-hopping to the nearby islands of

Koh Larn (Coral Island) and its amazing marine landscape; and the gorgeous Alcazar cabaret show

Finally, Bangkok: an experience worthy of a royal capital awaits – kicking off your tour with a dinner cruise down the Chao Phraya River, you’ll spend a few days exploring highlights like the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market, Safari World & Marine Park, and the Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew

Bridge over Hoan Kiem Lake, Hanoi, Viet Nam.Image courtesy of the Viet Nam Administration of Tourism.

BOOK THIS TOUR

For tour prices, timetables and other important details, contact Sedunia Travel Services Sdn. Bhd. by telephone +60 (0) 3-2148 4566,email [email protected], or visit their website www.seduniatravel.com.

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MAJESTIC MARCHTHROUGH MYANMAR AND MALAYSIA

Pindaya Cave in Pindaya, Myanmar. Image courtesy of Mike Aquino

This 18-day, 17-night tour is nothing short of epic: See Myanmar on and off the beaten path before detouring to the Malay Peninsula for a jaunt through Singapore, Malacca and Kuala Lumpur

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HIGHLIGHTSWalk in the shoes of Bagan kings, Buddhist monks and Mongol invaders when you lay siege to Myanmar’s top destinations in an epic 18-day tour.

This itinerary will take you deep into Myanmar’s history and culture, through stops at Yangon, a former colonial capital whose landmarks include a portfolio of British-style buildings and the Shwedagon Pagoda; Bagan, a desert plain dotted with over 2,000 temples left over from the Pagan Empire that perished in the 13th century; Mandalay, the last Burmese royal capital before the empire’s final annexation by the British;

Ava, once the capital of an ancient kingdom and still home to several ancient temples; Pindaya, a hill town renowned for its Pindaya cave filled with thousands of Buddha images; Inle Lake, home to the Intha and their famous lake-centered culture; and Ngapali Beach, a world-class beachfront town boasting a white-sand beach that’s easily the equal of anything elsewhere in Southeast Asia. After rounding back to Yangon, you’ll spend the last third of the trip making the rounds of cities rooted in a different cultural tradition.

Singapore has a quintessentially British heart beating under its modern facade, betrayed by its 19th century shophouses and government buildings in the city center; Malacca was formerly the capital of a Malay empire before succumbing to centuries of Portuguese, Dutch and British rule, remnants of which can be found in the city’s churches and buildings; and Kuala Lumpur, a tin mining town that transformed itself into Malaysia’s modern capital within decades of independence.

This itinerary can be tailor-made according to each customer’s need.

Mandalay Palace in Mandalay, Myanmar. Image courtesy of Mike Aquino

Trishaw in Malacca, Malaysia. Image courtesy of Mike Aquino

BOOK THIS TOUR

For tour prices, timetables and other important details, contact Mira Travels & Enterprises Ltd. by telephone+ 95 9 5152516,+ 95 9 976880244, [email protected] visit their websitewww.miramyanmartravel.com

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SOUTHEAST ASIA DISCOVERY

Biking in Sukhothai, Thailand. Image © Tourism Authority of Thailand.

Four countries, four diverse experiences: a wide-ranging 18-day, 17-night tour that takes guests through the best of Thailand, Cambodia, Laos and Viet Nam

Buckle your seatbelts, this four-country itinerary will take you on a wild ride.

It starts in Bangkok, the capital of Thailand, where you’ll spend your first full day seeing the city’s highlights: the sprawling Grand Palace and the Wat Phra Kaew (housing the Emerald Buddha) within its walls; Wat Pho, the home of Thai massage and the Reclining Buddha; and Wat Arun, the “Temple of Dawn”.

You’ll also go by foot down the walking streets of Chinatown; and by long-tail boat down the Chao Phraya River and its klongs (canals) running through the heart of the city.

Flying to Sukhothai next, you’ll come face to face with the Siamese peoples’ first capital. Established in the 13th century, Sukhothai ruled over Siam’s golden age. The city ruins still contain about 200 chedis, most of which can be explored by bike. Another city remnant, the Si Satchanalai Historical Park north of Sukhothai, also yields over 130 ruined monuments worthy of exploration.

Last on the Thailand trail is the northern city of Chiang Mai, whose traditional markets, long-tail river craft, and ancient ruins hearken back to traditional ways stretching back to the former Lanna Kingdom.

HIGHLIGHTS

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A short flight takes you to Laos and its former royal capital Luang Prabang. Take in a heavy helping of Lao history at the former Royal Palace, now the National Museum, before walking to a series of beautiful local temples.

The Luang Prabang stop also affords you an immersion into traditional Lao culture, courtesy of its diverse ethnic minorities, bustling markets, and delicious dishes (courtesy of a Lao cooking class).

From Luang Prabang, you’ll cruise down the Mekong River to the Pak Ou caves at the confluence of the Mekong and Nam Ou Rivers, where hundreds of Buddha images reflect local devotion to Buddhism; then up to the top of Mount Phousi to enjoy a panoramic view of the city and the surrounding countryside.

Viet Nam is next: the gorgeous vistas of Ha Long Bay loom before you, seen from the deck of one of the boats chugging serenely through these waters.

Viet Nam’s cities offer a look at a millennium of the Vietnamese people’s history -

•Starting with the present-day capital Hanoi and its half-day tour of the Temple of Literature, Hoan Kiem Lake, and the bustling Old Quarter; •the former imperial capital of Hue and its Nguyen Dynasty relics like the Royal Citadel and Thien Mu Pagoda; •Hoi An, a former trading port that hosts 18th-century mansions and clan houses in its old district; and •Ho Chi Minh City, still called “Saigon” by its residents and bustling with structures left over from French colonial times like the Old Saigon Post Office and City Hall.

Flying to Siem Reap – the gateway to the Angkor temples – you’ll gain access to one of Southeast Asia’s architectural marvels. The sprawling plain containing hundreds of Angkor-era temples recalls the burst of energy that came forth from generations of Khmer Kings that once ruled a vast empire from this place.

On the last few days of this wide-ranging tour, you’ll explore the Angkor temples in depth: the former capital of Angkor Thom; the enigmatic

Bayon temple; the small circuit encompassing Ta Prohm, Banteay Kdei and Srah Srang; and the massive marvel known to all as Angkor Wat: its silhouette tracing nothing less than Mount Meru, home of the gods.

The local lifestyle will also be on display, through a tour of the Tonle Sap lake and its water villages; the highlight of this cruise takes place on a floating house, where you’ll enjoy a picnic and views of the local people as they go about their daily lives.

Japanese Bridge in Hoi An, Viet Nam. Image © Tourism Authority of Thailand.

BOOK THIS TOURFor tour prices, timetables and other important details, contact EXOTravel by telephone +66 (0) 2 633 9060 or visit their website exotravel.com.

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PASSAGE TO VIET NAM

Temple of Literature, Hanoi, Viet Nam. Image courtesy of the Vietnam National Administration of Tourism.

This 19 day/18 night grand tour of Southeast Asia begins in Singapore and skips through Malaysia’s urban highlights before covering Viet Nam and its top destinations in detail

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HIGHLIGHTSWith three countries to cover, you’ll need 19 days to see the absolute best that Singapore, Malaysia and Viet Nam have to offer. Take this trip on and voyage through the following destinations:


Penang: the British transformed this Malaysian island into one of their finest trading ports in Southeast Asia – you’ll rediscover this history through a tour of buildings around George Town, the hills and temples in the hinterlands, and amazing street food that draws eaters from all around Asia

Kuala Lumpur: Malaysia’s capital offers a whirlwind view of history and culture with tours through its historic city center (combining century-old architecture and iconic new buildings like the Petronas Twin Towers), best seen on a night tour that concludes with a buffet dinner and cultural show; and visits to the countryside

Hanoi: The Vietnamese capital is a stepping stone to a number of historical and natural wonders, from Hoa Lu Ancient Capital to the scenic Bich Dong Pagoda to the romantic Trang An Grottoes. Ha Long Bay: rain and tides have carved the local karst landscape into something approaching a fevered fantasy – gently curving islands jut out of the sea,

marked by caves, coves and towering spires – you’ll enjoy the view while cruising through these waters

Hue: the former Imperial capital of Viet Nam retains many grand buildings left over from the Nguyen emperors, including a Citadel by the Perfume River and several grand tombs in the hills around the city

Hoi An: this former trading port was fortunately passed over by the last century’s many conflicts, thankfully preserving its old district and 18th-century mansions and clan houses within

Da Nang: sitting in the shadow of the Marble Mountains, this major metropolis is now famous for its bridges, its beaches and its temples

Ho Chi Minh City: formerly the capital of half of a divided nation, its attractions still hearken back to its colonial days – buildings in the city center like the Notre Dame Cathedral, General Post office, and City Hall; the Cu Chi Tunnel network outside the city; and the Mekong River delta, where Viet Namese traditional life goes on around the canals and nearby Thai Son Island.

Khai Dinh Royal Tomb in Hue, Viet Nam. Image courtesy of the Vietnam National Administration of Tourism.

BOOK THIS TOUR

For tour prices, timetables and other important details, contact Sedunia Travel Services Sdn. Bhd. by telephone +60 (0) 3-2148 4566, email [email protected], or visit their websitewww.seduniatravel.com.

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TREKKING, DRIVING AND CRUISING THROUGH FOUR COUNTRIES

Buddha images, Pak Ou Caves. Image © llee_wu/Creative Commons

A 21-day/20-night trip worth remembering! From Yangon in Myanmar , you’ll head to the Golden Triangle dividing three countries, and end at Luang Prabang, Laos – all told, a three-week expedition for the history books

In three weeks, you’ll hit the trails, roads and rivers running through Myanmar, Thailand, Laos and Cambodia’s highlands and farmlands – all you’ll need are eyes wide open to take in the amazing scenery.

The voyage begins in the city - Yangon, Myanmar’s largest metropolis. You won’t see many high-rises here, but one structure rises and shines above the city’s skyline: the Shwedagon Pagoda, a symbol of Burmese Buddhism.

From here, you’ll gravitate towards Yangon’s other interesting pagodas: Botataung, home to several precious Buddhist relics; and Chaukhtatkyi, where you can admire a monumental, 70m-high Buddha.

The trail takes you next to Inle Lake – you’ll ride a traditional long boat to cruise around the lake and discover workshops around the lakeshore churning out silk, traditional boats and Burmese cigars (“cheroots”). Further off, you’ll chance upon Indein Village and its idyllic 17th century pagodas. You’ll also spend half a day trekking through the eastern part of the lake, walking through tobacco and corn plots grown by local villagers.

HIGHLIGHTS

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At Bagan, one of Myanmar’s most ancient cities, over 2,000 pagodas tower over the arid plain – among them Shwezigon Pagoda, Gubyaukgyi Temple (Wetkyiinn), Ananda Temple, and Sulamanni Temple. If you have extra time, squeeze in a visit to Nanphaya Temple, or take a horse cart ride around the Old Bagan temples. Across the Ayeyarwady River from Bagan, you’ll drive to several ancient cities still left standing: Pakhangyi, where one of the oldest wooden monasteries in Myanmar still stands; caves around the Chindwin River; and several outsized Buddha statues. The driving trail ends at Mandalay, Myanmar’s last royal capital, where you’ll visit a number of sacred sites, among them the heavily-gilded Buddha image at Mahamuni; Kuthodaw pagoda, site of the world’s biggest book; and Mandalay Hill, where you’ll watch the sun set over the city.

The roads from Mandalay lead to other “lost” cities and pagodas – the unfinished Mingun pagoda; and the abandoned former capital Ava, where you’ll travel by horse-and-carriage to the old wooden Bagaya Monastery and the remains of the Royal Palace and Fort.

The borders between Myanmar, Thailand and Laos fall within the “Golden Triangle” area, and the next few stops bring you through the Triangle’s top spots to see.

You’ll make the land crossing from Tachilek in Myanmar to Mae Sai in Thailand, before making your way via long-tail boat to the Karen Ruam Mitr village for an elephant safari adventure, village visit to Yapau; and finally trek to Huay Mae Sai waterfall, where you can enjoy a swim and the forest breeze.

Across the border into Laos, you’ll travel to Luang Namtha and meet the various ethnic groups who populate this region – the Hmong, Akha and Tai Lu – while visiting their villages and learning their way of life.

Down the Ou River, you’ll ride a boat and explore a series of caves along the lakeshore, culminating in a three-hour cruise to the Pak Ou caves – sacred to locals since the sixteenth century, these caves now host hundreds of Buddha statues left behind by devotees.

Finally, you’ll end your journey at Luang Prabang, where a number of authentic cultural experiences await – from a visit to the food market, to a dip at the falls of Kuang Si, to an ascent up the sacred Phou Si Hill to end your trip with a beautiful panoramic view.

Shwedagon Pagoda. Image courtesy of Mike Aquino.

BOOK THIS TOUR

For tour prices, timetables and other important details, contact ARASA Tour by telephone(+856) 21 213633-4, email [email protected] or visit their website http://www.arasa-tour-laos.com.

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THREE WEEKS’ WANDERING WONDER


This 22 day/21 night tour is enough to turn you into a Southeast Asia expert, taking you through no less than five countries and the best they have to offer to the dedicated traveler

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HIGHLIGHTSHave three weeks to spare? Take on this 22-day trip through five countries in Southeast Asia: you’ll start in Singapore and find yourself in places you never dreamed you’d see, from Ha Long Bay’s surreally-shaped islands to Penang’s British colonial shophouses!

Get ready for an itinerary of a lifetime through the following long list of tourist stops:Singapore: one of Southeast Asia’s most forward-looking cities offers a number of surprises – from Southeast Asia’s first zoo for nocturnal animals, the Singapore Night Safari; to the ultra-modern Gardens by the Bay housing thousands of plants from ecosystems around the world (the scenic SuperTrees are a must-see); to its city streets combining colonial British architecture with the most cutting-edge building designs in the world

Penang: the British transformed this Malaysian island into one of their finest trading ports in Southeast Asia – you’ll rediscover this history through a tour of buildings around George Town, the hills and temples in the hinterlands, and amazing street food that draws eaters from all around Asia

Kuala Lumpur: Malaysia’s capital offers a whirlwind view of history and culture with tours through its historic city center (combining century-old architecture and

iconic new buildings like the Petronas Twin Towers), best seen on a night tour that concludes with a buffet dinner and cultural show; and visits to Kuala Selangor nature reserve beyond the city




Pattaya: this resort town has plenty to recommend it beyond its beaches: orchids at the Nong Nooch Tropical Garden; boat-hopping to the nearby islands of Koh Larn (Coral Island) and its amazing marine landscape; and the gorgeous Alcazar cabaret show

Finally, Bangkok: an experience worthy of a royal capital awaits – kicking off your tour with a dinner cruise down the Chao Phraya River, you’ll spend a few days exploring highlights like the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market, Safari World & Marine Park, and the Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew

The Esplanade in Marina Bay, Singapore. Image courtesy of the Singapore Tourism Board.

Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion, Penang, Malaysia. Image courtesy of Tourism Malaysia.

BOOK THIS TOUR

For tour prices, timetables and other important details, contact Sedunia Travel Services Sdn. Bhd. by telephone+60 (0) 3-2148 4566,email [email protected], or visit their website www.seduniatravel.com.

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27-DAY NORTHERN THAILAND, LAOS AND CAMBODIA SAGA

Image of Luang Prabang © Jean-Marie Hullot / Creative Commons.

This epic 27-day/26-night voyage through Northern Thailand, Laos and Cambodia leaves no stone unturned, no road un-traveled and no adventure un-experienced

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HIGHLIGHTSIf you have a month to devote to adventure, we have an itinerary for you that takes you through Northern Thailand, Laos and Cambodia’s highlights, in detail and in full living color.

Start in Thailand, and use Chiang Mai as your springboard to the country’s north and its many adventures: among them, contemplation at the Wat Phra That Doi Suthep temple; pachyderm fun at the Mae Tang Elephant Park; an easy bamboo raft trip on the Ping River; and a great photo opportunity with the famous Long Neck Karen women.

Continue to the Golden Triangle - where the borders of Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar meet – and proceed to Laos, where the meandering roads take you to a flurry of cultural and natural surprises within the country’s interior. In Chiang Khong district, you’ll enjoy the hospitality and friendliness of the different hill tribes. In Muang Sing, you’ll test your limits trekking some of Asia’s most rugged mountains. In Oudomxay province, you’ll visit the local market and as the Wat Phra Xack Kham temple. And in Phongsaly, you’ll enjoy the view of tea plantations spreading out on the mountainside.

You’ll also have the chance to visit the communities of Phounoi or Laoseng, Akkha, villages. Enjoy your cruise on the Nam Ou River to Nong Khiow, then bike ride through the picturesque local limestone caves nearby, and make your way to the World Heritage town of Luang Prabang UNESCO.

Finally, you’ll cross the border into Cambodia: you’ll head to Banlung, the capital of Rattanakiri to check the local markets and ethnic groups; you’ll travel by boat on the river Se San to visit a village tribe where the Tompuon practice funeral statuary; you’ll visit Cambodia’s capital Phnom Penh for a day out in the city; and you’ll take a journey through the Cardamom mountains to end up in the beach town of Sihanoukville, where sun and fun complete your long saga.

Ping River , Thailand. Image © Tourism Authority of Thailand

BOOK THIS TOUR

For tour prices, timetables and other important details, contact Viengchampa Tour by telephone (+856) 21 262041,email [email protected] or visit their website www.viengchampatour.com.

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CRUISE PACKAGESCruising is a hassle-free and value-for-money way to discover the diverse beauty of Southeast Asia in a single holiday. Wake up to a new and different destination each day, without the need to constantly pack and unpack. The wide variety of cruise ships sailing in the region also means there is an itinerary that will suit every taste.

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SEE SOUTHEAST ASIA ABOARD THE CORAL DISCOVERER

Moken Sea Gypsy Village in Myanmar. Image courtesy of Coral Expeditions.

Applicable to worldwide bookingsBook using the promo code “ASEAN@50”, and save on your air connections with an extra AUD$1,500 flight credit

per person for selected Coral Expeditions itineraries departing from November 2016 to February 2017.

Coral Expeditions’ Southeast Asia itineraries range from glittering cities to tropical rainforests. Applicable sailings:

Orangutans And Lost Tribes Of The Java Sea(Kalimantan to Singapore, 9 days/8 nights, departs 5 Nov 2016):

Discover “Wonderful Indonesia” on this brand new itinerary that’s perfectly suited for small ship expedition cruising. This cruise focuses on Indonesia’s wildlife where one can spot rare and endangered species endemic to this part of the world, both on dry land when hiking and visiting national parks, and in the sea when swimming, snorkelling and diving.

The cruise departs from Kalimantan, Indonesia (after a charter flight from Bali) aboard the Coral Discoverer and visits Tanjung Puting National Park, Kalimantan; Thousand Islands; Anak Krakatau; Ujung Kulon National Park; Pulau Belitung and Pulau Penuba in Indonesia; and Singapore.

HIGHLIGHTS

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A Passage to Lost Myanmar (Singapore to Yangon, 13 days/12 nights, departs 25 Nov 2016): From sipping drinks on deck while the Singapore skyline floats by, to lapping up the balmy breezes of the Andaman Sea, learning about local cooking secrets in a Thai village, and witnessing the rapid evolution of modern Myanmar in Yangon, this expedition from Singapore to Yangon is for travellers seeking adventure and pleasure in equal measure. The cruise departs from Singapore aboard the Coral Discoverer and visits: Melaka and Pangkor in Malaysia; Tarutao National Marine Park and Ao Nang in Thailand; and Mawlamyine and the Mergui Archipelago in Myanmar.

Glimpses of Lost Myanmar (Yangon to Singapore, 13 days/12 nights, departs 31 Dec 2016): From Yangon to Singapore, be treated to immersive experiences designed to show the unique culture, cuisine and communities of Myanmar, Malaysia, Thailand and Singapore in a whole new light. The cruise departs from Yangon, Myanmar aboard the Coral Discoverer and visits: Singapore; Melaka and Pangkor in Malaysia; Tarutao National Marine Park and Ao Nang in Thailand; and Mawlamyine and the Mergui Archipelago in Myanmar.

An Epic Expedition through the Indonesian Archipelago (Singapore to Darwin, 18 days/17 nights, departs 26 Feb 2017): Venture deep into the wilds of Indonesia on this itinerary filled with adventure and discovery. With the help of an experienced Captain and expert guides, uncover the secrets of the Indonesian islands by swimming over coral reefs, hiking up volcano calderas, walking through rainforests and dipping into jungle-fringed waterfalls.

The cruise departs from Singapore aboard the Coral Discoverer and visits: Tanjung Puting National Park, Kalimantan; Thousand Islands; Anak Krakatau; Ujung Kulon National Park; Karimunjawa National Park; Surabaya; Belitung, Penuba, Lombok, Komodo, Sumba, Alor, Kera, and Kupang Islands; Kelimutu National Park in Indonesia; and Darwin, Australia.

Shwedagon Paya, Yangon, Myanmar. Image courtesy of Coral Expeditions.

BOOK THIS TOUR

Terms and Conditions: 1. Flight Credit is not available to be combined with any other offer, except standard Xplorers Club loyalty discounts and benefits. 2. Members of Coral Expedition’s past passenger loyalty program, Xplorers Club, can combine this with their standard discounts and benefits.3. Promotion is capacity-controlled

More details about the itineraries are on Coral Expeditions’ official site https://www.coralexpeditions.com/.

Departure Dates and Itineraries: November 2016 to February 2017• Singapore to Yangon 12 nights • Yangon to Singapore 12 nights• Kalimantan to Singapore 8 nights• Singapore to Darwin 17 nights

Offer: AUD$1,500 flight credit per person for all Asia itineraries for the 16/17 season. Specifically for US market, flight credit is capped at US$1,000.

How to utilise this promotion: Quote “ASEAN@50” when booking via Coral Expedition’s appointed travel agents, phone, email or online athttps://www.coralexpeditions.com/

Pulau Belitung Lighthouse, Indonesia. Image courtesy of Coral Expeditions.

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YOUR ROYAL ADVENTURE STARTS HERE IN SOUTHEAST ASIA

Mariner of the Seas. Image courtesy of Royal Caribbean International.

Applicable to bookings from Singapore, India, Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Vietnam, Thailand and Brunei.Book using the promo code “ASEAN@50”, and enjoy up to US$100 onboard credit for selected Royal Caribbean

cruises departing from Singapore in 2017 and Q1 2018.

HIGHLIGHTSRoyal Caribbean International’s cruise ships count among the largest and most innovative that currently sail Asia’s waterways. Travelers looking for a Southeast Asia adventure aboard Mariner of the Seas, Ovation of the Seas or Voyager of the Seas can take advantage of exclusive deals during ASEAN’s Golden Celebration.

Enjoy USD$50 onboard credit per stateroom, if you’re booking an interior or ocean view stateroom; or US$100 onboard credit per stateroom, if you’re booking a balcony stateroom or suite.

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Applicable itineraries:

• 3-Night Malaysia Explorer Cruise: Singapore - Kuala Lumpur (Port Klang) - Singapore

• 3&4-Night Penang Cruise: Singapore - Penang - Singapore

• 4-Night Phuket Cruise: Singapore - Phuket - Singapore

• 4-Night Isles of Southeast Asia Cruise: Singapore - Kuala Lumpur (Port Klang) -

Phuket -Singapore

• 4-Night Isles of Southeast Asia Cruise: Singapore - Penang - Phuket - Singapore

• 4-Night Isles of Southeast Asia Cruise: Singapore - Penang - Langkawi - Singapore

• 5-Night Penang & Phuket Cruise: Singapore - Penang – Phuket - Singapore

• 5-Night Spice of Southeast Asia Cruise: Singapore - Kuala Lumpur (Port Klang) -

Penang - Phuket - Singapore

• 5-Night Bangkok Cruise: Singapore - Bangkok (Laem Chabang) - Singapore

• 7-Night Spice of Southeast Asia Cruise: Singapore - Kuala Lumpur (Port Klang) -

Penang - Langkawi - Phuket - Singapore

• 7-Night Thailand & Vietnam Cruise: Singapore/ Bangkok (Laem Chabang)/

Ho Chi Minh City (Phu My)/ Singapore

Mariner of the Seas is part of Royal Caribbean’s Voyager-class of cruise ships, notable for having the highest public space-per-guest ratio in the cruise market. A US$80 million refurbishment adds new features such as the FlowRider surf simulator and real-time virtual balconies to its sister ship, Voyager of the Seas. Both Voyager-class ships boast a capacity of close to 4,000 passengers and state-of-the-art recreational facilities like a rock-climbing wall, ice-skating rink, basketball court, mini golf and an outdoor movie screen.

Ovation of the Seas, part of Royal Caribbean’s newest Quantum Class that debuted in 2016, is the largest and most technologically advanced ship class in the region. First-at-sea features include the revolutionary North Star, an observation capsule which brings you 300 feet above sea level; RipCord by iFly, a skydiving simulator; SeaPlex, the largest indoor space at sea where you can indulge in bumper cars, skating, fly trapeze and more; and Two70, a hi-tech transformational venue from day to night. Not to be missed is also the first true robotic bar in the world, Bionic Bar where you can enjoy a drink stirred and shaken by robot bartenders!

Ovation of the Seas. Image courtesy of Royal Caribbean International.

BOOK THIS TOURDeparture Dates and Itineraries: 2017 and Q1 2018 Singapore sailings• Applicable to all Southeast- Asia sailings on Mariner of the Seas, Ovation of the Seas and Voyager of the Seas.

Offer:• US$50 onboard credit per cabin for interior and oceanview category staterooms • US$100 onboard credit per cabin for balcony and suites category staterooms• Valid till June 2017.

How to utilise this promotion: Quote “ASEAN@50” when booking via Royal Caribbean International’s appointed travel agents or online at http://www.royalcaribbean.com.sg/

Terms and Conditions: 1. Combinable with published promotional rate 2. Not combinable with Travel agent rate/ Guarantee promotion (no stateroom allocated) / Weekly online deals

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UP THE MALACCA STRAIT ONBOARD SUPERSTAR GEMINI

Marina Bay, Singapore. Image courtesy of Star Cruises.

Imagine the perfect getaway – being pampered in grand setting, surrounded by world-class entertainment, gastronomic delights, lush accommodation, fine facilities and warm Asian hospitality. A getaway where you don’t have to worry about what to do and when to do it. Set sail onboard SuperStar Gemini and discover freestyle cruising!

Uniquely Freestyle - Be free to dress up or dress down, dine whom you choose, enjoy the activities of your choice, all at your convenience onboard SuperStar Gemini. The vessel offers a range of suites and staterooms that provides utmost comfort to the discerning traveller. In addition, recreational delights abound onboard: be treated to world class productions, tone up at the exclusive King Neptune Health Club, unwind in the jacuzzi, or take a dip in the outdoor swimming pools.

A Culinary Journey - Embark on a gastronomic journey onboard SuperStar Gemini. Enjoy a delectable range of culinary classics from Asian specialties to Western delights and sumptuous Chinese favourites. With 11 F&B outlets onboard, there’s something for every tastebud! Upscale Shopping at Sea - SuperStar Gemini’s swanky shopping boulevard will delight the shopaholic in you. Pick up souvenirs from Ports O’Call, and shop for elegant watches and jewellery at Canopus. Drop in at Milan Station for designer bags, or choose your favourite perfumes at the cdf Duty Free shop.

Applicable to bookings from ASEAN Nations (i.e. Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam)Enjoy 50% discount of cabin fare for the second passenger, with a minimum of two persons sharing in one cabin.

Offer is applicable for selected two to three night cruises departing from Singapore to the jewels of Malacca Strait – Kuala Lumpur, Malacca, Penang and Langkawi onboard SuperStar Gemini.

HIGHLIGHTSTo complete your holiday experience, SuperStar Gemini takes you to the best of Asia, from idyllic hotspots like Langkawi, to culturally rich places like Malacca and Penang. Bustling capitals like Singapore and Kuala Lumpur also await your discovery.

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Enjoy 50% discount off cabin fare for the second passenger, with a minimum of two persons sharing in one cabin. Offer is applicable for selected two to three night cruises departing from Singapore to the jewels of Malacca Strait – Kuala Lumpur, Malacca, Penang and Langkawi onboard SuperStar Gemini. Other special deals are also available onboard:

• Buy a pair of Castel Sparking wine at SGD$50• Get 50% off for 2nd services from Salon and Spa • SGD$50 for selected items at Hot Spot Duty Free

Applicable for selected SuperStar Gemini sailings from 30 Oct 2016 to 25 Oct 2017:

• 3-Night (Sun): Singapore – Penang & Langkawi – Singapore

• 3-Night (Sun): Singapore – Penang & Kuala Lumpur (Port Klang) – Singapore

• 2-Night (Wed): Singapore – Malacca – Singapore

• 2-Night (Wed): Singapore – Kuala Lumpur (Port Klang) – Singapore

BOOK THIS TOUR

Petronas Towers, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Image courtesy of Star Cruises.

Jacuzzi aboard the SuperStar Gemini.Image courtesy of Star Cruises.

Departure Dates and Itineraries: 30 Oct 2016 to 25 Oct 2017

• 3-Night (Sun): Singapore – Penang & Langkawi – Singapore• 3-Night (Sun): Singapore – Penang & Kuala Lumpur (Port Klang) – Singapore• 2-Night (Wed): Singapore – Malacca – Singapore• 2-Night (Wed): Singapore – Kuala Lumpur (Port Klang) – Singapore

Offer:

1. Enjoy 50% discount on cabin fare for 2nd pax; with minimum 2 persons sharing in 1 cabin 2. Enjoy offers on-board: • Buy a pair of Castel Sparking wine at SGD$50 • Get 50% off for 2nd services from Salon and Spa • SGD$50 for selected items at Hot Spot Duty Free3. Valid till 30 March 2017.

How to utilise this promotion:

visit https://booking.starcruises.com/cruise-deals/asean@50/ to book a cruise. For promotion enquiries, please email [email protected].

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BRUNEIDARUSSALAM

Tourism Development DepartmentMinistry of Industry and Primary Resources Bandar Seri Begawan BB 3910 Brunei DarussalamTel: +673 238 2822Fax: +673 238 2807www.bruneitourism.travel

CAMBODIA

Ministry of TourismLot 3A, St. 169, Veal Vong Commune, Prampi Makara District, Phnom Penh,Kingdom of Cambodiawww.tourismcambodia.org

INDONESIA

Ministry of Tourism and Creative EconomyJl. Merdeka Barat 17, Jakarta 10110Indonesiawww.indonesia.travel

LAO PDR

Department of Tourism Marketing, Ministryof Information, Culture and TourismP.O. Box: 3556, Lane Xang Avenue,Vientiane Capital, Lao PDR.Tel: +856-21-212248www.tourismlaos.org

TOURISTINFORMATION CONTACTS

MALAYSIA

Tourism Info Line:1 300 88 5050Ministry of TourismMalaysia No. 2, Tower 1 Jalan P5/6,Precint 5 62200 Putrajayawww.motour.gov.mywww.tourismmalaysia.gov.my

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MYANMAR

Ministry of Hotels and TourismBuilding No. 33, Nay Pyi Taw, Union Of Myanmar.Tel: 95 67 406129, 406061www.tourism-myanmar.orgwww.myanmartourism.org

THE PHILIPPINES

Department of TourismJB Building, 351 SenatorGil Puyat Avenue,Makati City, Philippineswww.tourism.gov.phwww.itsmorefuninthephilippines.com

SINGAPORE

Tourism Court 1 Orchard Spring LaneSingapore 247729Tel: 6736-6622www.yoursingapore.comTourist Information

HOTLINE

at 1800-736-2000(toll-free in Singapore),or +65-6736-2000(from overseas).Hotline operatesMonday to Friday(excluding Public Holidays), from 9am to 6pm.

THAILAND

Ministry of Tourism and Sports4 Ratchadamnoen Nok Avenue, Watsomanas, Pomprap Sattruphai,Bangkok 10100 ThailandTel: (+66) 2283 1500Fax: (+66) 2356 0746www.mots.go.th

Tourism Authority of Thailand1600 New Phetchaburi Road, Makkasan,Ratchathewi, Bangkok 10400 Thailand

TAT Contact Center:Tel: [+66] 2250 5500Fax: [+66] 1672www.tourismthailand.org

VIET NAM

Vietnam National Administration of Tourism80 Quan Su Street, Hoan Kiem District, Ha NoiTel: (84-4) 3942 3760Fax: (84-4) 3942 4115www.vietnamtourism.com

TOURISTINFORMATION CONTACTS

CAMPAIGN PARTNERS

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