Explore Asia 2018 - 2019
Out of the ordary Tours for everyone
Great outdoors • Local Customs • Charming Hospitality • Traditional Cooking • Stimulating Art • Intriguing Architecture 2 map asia & content
Beijing
1 Enchanting Ayutthaya >> pages 4–5 CHINA 2 Cát Tiên Nature Escape Mekong (Lancang) River >> pages 6–7 7 Shangri-La 3 Adventurous Luang Prabang >> pages 8–9 MYANMAR 4 Rivers and Caves Exploration philippine sea in Southern Myanmar LAOS Luang Prabang 3 >> pages 10–11
4 5 The Authentic Hues of Sumba Hpa An >> pages 12–13 THAILAND Ayuatthaya 1 vietnam 6 south 6 Community-Based Tourism Kampong Chhnang 2 Project near Oudong Cát Tiên china CAMBODIA sea >> pages 14–15
7 Beyond Northern Yunnan’s Shangri-La >> pages 16–17 8 Bukit Tinggi MALAYSIA MALAYSIA 8 Exquisite Glamping at Bukit Tinggi indian ocean >> page 18–19 INDONESIA INDONESIA
Jakarta 5 Sumba introduction 3
ou t of the or dina ry tou r s for ev eryone
Our unique programmes take individuals and small groups in an exciting new travel direction and provide unique, out of the ordinary experiences.
Our guests can achieve a truly authentic and sustainable travel experience in the great, wide outdoors. We cater for those with a passion for indigenous customs and culture; charming hospitality; flavoursome and traditional cooking; stimulating ethnic art; and intriguing architecture. come explore with us. 4 thailand • 2018 - 2019
Enchanting Ayutthaya
HIGHLIGHTS › Go back in time to ancient Siam in the former capital of Ayutthaya › Watch traditional artisans create exquisite hand-crafted artefacts › Explore the creative enclave of Ang Thong where nature meets inspiration
Delivering awe and splendour day 1, Bangkok – Ayutthaya day 2, Ang Thong day 3, Ayutthaya – Bangkok befitting its former capital city status, › From Bangkok’s main Hua Lamphong › Ang Thong, named after the golden › Today we take to the water to navigate UNESCO-listed Ayutthaya is less Railway Station, we board a morning train colour of the locally grown rice, is also Ayutthaya’s famed moat, one of the city’s than an hour by train from Bangkok to Ayutthaya for a leisurely journey past a creative town that is home to fine most recognizable landmarks. The boat but a million miles apart in terms of lush rice fields and farming communities. arts and crafts. Alongside its farming ride gives a unique perspective of the history. Visitors will witness heritage On arrival, a Kob, Ayutthaya’s version of tradition, the town is famed for its abundant historical buildings. Traditional dating back to 1350 in the ancient the iconic tuk-tuk, will convey us to the artisans who are highly skilled at hand boat building remains an important local park located on an island between famed archaeological park to explore crafting traditional Thai court dolls, tradition that can be viewed in Ayutthaya three rivers. The archaeological a wealth of temples, pagodas and drums and wickerwork. With the flow of even today. We then head to Wat site contains palaces, temples and palaces. Highlights include the search for the Chao Phraya ‘River of Kings’ through Chaiwatthanaram to see ground-breaking weather-worn statues that give a spiritual guidance at a meditation centre, the town, the adjoining lush, green fertile restorative work being undertaken by rich cultural insight into this former exploration of generations-old handicraft landscape offers the perfect backdrop to the Ministry of Fine Arts to preserve the trading port that was the first city workshops, including the Aranyik Knife the 200 glittering temples that dot the city’s cultural riches. Lunch en-route is until a Burmese invasion in 1767. Village where artisans relate their story of countryside. Highlights include a tour of prepared by a Michelin-star chef. Finally, old Siam through an entertaining knife- a melon farm, exploration of Thailand’s we visit Niwet Thammaprawat temple, making show. In proper Thai fashion, the Buddhist culture, followed by a leisurely a striking Buddhist place of worship day ends with a traditional noodle dinner drive back to Ayutthaya for dinner at a designed by an Italian architect in the in the company of friendly locals. leading Ayutthaya resort. style of a European Gothic church, as part of King Chulalongkorn’s modernization of Siam.
1 thailand • 2018 - 2019 5
1 · Ayutthaya Meditation Retreat 2 · Wat Khun-In Thra-Pramul, Ang Thong 3 · Wat Niwet Thammaprawat 4 · Ang Thong - Drum Making Village 5 · Ayutthaya - Aranyik Knife Village
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Travel Period Throughout the year.
Travel Duration Three days / two nights.
Group Size One – 30 persons.
Included in the Tour Accommodation based on room/breakfast with daily local lunches, two dinners, all tours and transfers with a local guide (multiple languages available), all entrance fees as outlined in the programme’s day-to-day itinerary.
Excluded from the Tour Other services and meals not included in the programme, optional 4 tours, tips, personal expenses, personal travel insurance, visa expenses and airfares.
Remarks A respectful dress code is applicable for many of the Buddhist temple visits. It is recommended guests stay in Bangkok prior to commencement of the tour.
5 Programme subject to change. 6 vietnam • 2018 - 2019
Cát Tiên Nature Escape
HIGHLIGHTS › Explore uncharted jungle territory, easily accessible from Ho Chi Minh or Dalat › Visit impressive sustainable rehabilitation projects in Cát Tiên National Park › Trek through amazing flora and fauna in the company of expert guides
Within easy reach of Vietnam’s main day 1, Arrival Cát Tiên – Dao day 2, Bau Sau Lake Long Trek day 3, Departure Cát Tiên southern tourism areas but a world Tien Island Exploration > After breakfast, a 10-minute > The last part of this nature-based apart in terms of flora and fauna, > After check in to an eco-lodge, pick-up truck ride starts a new day exploration commences after breakfast Cát Tiên is off the mass tourism our home for two nights, we enjoy a of exploration. We take to water with transfer to your next destination radar. Guests will discover a vast leisurely lunch. The adventure then for a cooling journey to Bau Sau in Vietnam. lowland tropical forest and biosphere starts with a short boat ride to Dao ‘Crocodile’ Lake. Then, it is time to reserve that is home to ancient Tien (Monkey) Island, escorted by an truly get back to nature with a five trees and botanical gardens. The expert guide. Large areas of the island hour-plus hike along forest trails to park shelters a wide diversity of are protected zones and home to view ancient trees, spot the estimated wildlife including bears, crocodiles, endangered primates and Loris freed 200 Siamese crocodiles and evidence monkeys, elephants and rare birds. from capture by poachers during illegal of other wildlife. After leaving this This is the perfect opportunity to wildlife raids across the 56-hectare 2,500-hectare lagoon area, we sail to find solitude and get back to nature secluded area. A visit to a rehabilitation the Cát Tiên Bear and Wildcat Rescue on hiking and mountain bike trails. centre managed by the Endangered Station to see animals rescued from Asian Species Trust (EAST) and its poachers. We then head back to the NGO partners will give our guests an lodge for dinner and overnight. Guests informative insight in the pioneering can book an optional early evening work done by these conservationists to animal spotting tour with a guide. safeguard threatened creatures.
1 vietnam • 2018 - 2019 7
1 · Cát Tiên – Cát Tiên Jungle Lodge accommodation 2 · A rice farmer works near Cát Tiên 3 · A wooden walkway in the National Park in Cát Tiên 4 · Spot the croc in Cát Tiên 5 · A gibbon on Dao Tien Island
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Travel Period December - April.
Travel Duration Three days / two nights.
Group Size One – 30 persons.
Included in the Tour Accommodation, based on room/half-board with one lunch at the lodge and one picnic lunch on day two, all tours and transfers with a local English speaking guide, all entrance fees as outlined in the programme’s day-to-day itinerary.
Excluded from the Tour Other services and meals that are not included in the programme, 4 donation fees at the rehabilitation centres (when applicable), optional early morning and early evening excursions around the Jungle Lodge, personal expenses, tips and optional transfers to/from Cát Tiên.
Remarks Recommended for experienced travellers with a decent physical condition. From May until November, jungle treks may be cancelled due to potential severe rain showers. The itinerary is subject to change depending on road and weather conditions.
5 Programme subject to change. 8 laos • 2018 - 2019
Adventurous Luang Prabang
HIGHLIGHTS › Explore the mighty Nam Khan River from your own kayak › Fly like a bird over a jungle canopy attached to a zip-line › Enter an adventure race set in idyllic botanical gardens
Luang Prabang is Laos’ favourite day 1, Luang Prabang – day 2, Nam Dhong Park day 3, Pha Tad Kae – tourism destination and renowned Pic Noi > High flying adventure awaits today! Luang Prabang for its temples, French colonial > In the morning, we head out to the Covering 800-metres of zip-lining trails > Pha Tad Kae Botanical Garden has influences and picture postcard picturesque town of Pic Noi, 30 minutes high over the jungle canopy, Nam Dhong emerged as a fabulous site for the scenery. However, it is lesser known from Luang Prabang. Accompanied Park’s six stations are among the finest adventure-minded. Starting with a for its adventure lifestyle, so we by a kayak professional, the day vantage points for amazing views over short boat ride across the Mekong, have created a unique, bespoke starts paddling leisurely streams and unspoilt green scenery. Guided by zip- this protected area of floral allure is tour for those seeking intrepid then more adventurous white-water line experts, the feeling of flying like a the setting for an adventure race in outdoor pursuits, be it white-water conditions, before disembarking near bird is achievable in this natural setting. which participants complete tasks kayaking, flying like a bird over the tomb of 19th century French explorer Then the pace slows down as we view related to culture, conservation, history, jungle canopies, or competing in Henri Mouhot, the adventurer who traditional handmade paper techniques. sustainability, spirituality and survival. an adventure race. This excursion officially discovered Luang Prabang. We Laos and handicrafts have been Guests will be directed by a digital deviates from the typical tourist trail then head to one of the leading elephant intertwined for decades and working guide and tracked on Facebook so and gives an alternative insight into sanctuaries to bath, feed and walk with Mulberry paper made from the friends around the world can follow Luang Prabang. with jumbos in a jungle setting, next bark of the Sa tree, as well as bamboo, their progress. This is an exceptional to the Nam Khan River. This activity is gives guests an insight into this refined way to discover Luang Prabang and a conducted with a sustainable approach art through a non-commercial approach unique challenge few get to experience. and upmost respect for the animals. that promotes the cultural values of the At the end of the race, we head back Saying farewell to these gentle giants country’s handicrafts. to the hotel to conclude our three-day marks the end of a great day. adventure.
1 laos • 2018 - 2019 9
1 · Idyllic Pha Tad Ke countryside 2 · One of the jumbos at Mandalao Elephant Sanctuary 3 · Mandalao Elephant Sanctuary 4 · Zip-line at Nam Dhong Park 5 · Long-tail boats on the Mekong River
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Travel Period Throughout the year.
Travel Duration Three Days / two nights.
Group Size One – 30 persons.
Included in the Tour Accommodation, based on room/breakfast with daily lunch from day one until day three, all tours and transfers with a local English speaking guide, all entrance fees as outlined in the programme’s day- to-day itinerary.
Excluded from the Tour Other services and meals not included in the programme, personal 4 expenses and airport transfers from/to Luang Prabang Airport, travel insurance, tips, visa expenses and airfares.
Remarks Activities during the rainy season (May-September) may be subject to change when situations are considered unsafe to operate. A reasonable physical condition for guests is highly recommended with weight restrictions for the zip-line excursion. It is recommended guests stay in Luang Prabang prior to commencement of this tour.
5 Programme subject to change. 10 myanmar • 2018 - 2019
Rivers and Caves Exploration in Southern Myanmar
HIGHLIGHTS › Venture deep into Kayin State to view spectacular mountains and waterways › Visit historical remnants of the World War Two ‘Death Railway’ line › Explore fascinating landmarks dating back to colonial and Mon settlements
The Hpa An and Mawlamyine trails day 1, Yangon – Hpa An 90-minutes from Hpa An, played an karst formations and rustic riverside have been the exclusive preserve > An early departure from Yangon takes important role during the construction communities. Next is the impressive of intrepid travellers for decades us on a five hour-plus journey towards of the infamous Burmese-Siam Railway, Kawhnat Pagoda, which was built in and exclusivity sets the theme for the Kayin capital Hpa An. The drive is also known by its notorious nickname 1886 by famed patriot U Nar Auk. This this exploration as we discover part of the experience and includes the ‘Death Railway’. A visit to the impressive structure features intricately the first capital of British Burma travel on rugged mountain roads, Allied War Cemetery, which contains carved murals and delicate gold and an area with a rich ethnic Mon past meandering rivers and small over 3,500 allied POW graves, offers patterns. We then head back by boat to heritage. Mawlamyine and the farming communities, with plenty of peaceful recollection of a dark era in Mawlamyine for overnight. wider region offer a kaleidoscope opportunities for photo stops. Before history and a historical perspective of cultural, historical and nature- reaching Hpa An, we explore the of South East Asia. We then explore day 4, Mawlamyine – Yangon based experiences. Rivers, limestone natural architecture of the Bayinyi and the magical Saddan Cave with its > After breakfast, a seven-hour long caves, small villages and colonial-era Kawgoon limestone caves. The revered underground passages and a hidden drive through spectacular rolling heritage are intermingled on this 2,532-feet high Zwekabin Mountain, lake. countryside takes us back to Yangon to unique tour. the state’s main landmark, which conclude this four-day adventure. is exceptionally impressive viewed day 3, Mawlamyine from the banks of Kanthayar Lake > With waterways and the Gulf of is a highlight of some of the natural Martaban within reach, we take to a splendours we will experience on this boat to explore some of the smaller, three-day exploration. idyllic settlements outside the city, including a typical ethnic Mon village day 2, Hpa An – Mawlamyine for an introduction to their authentic
1 > The port town of Mawlamyine, way of life. The journey takes us past myanmar • 2018 - 2019 11
1 · Entrance to Bayinyi Cave 2 · Kyauk Ka Latt Pagoda near Saddan Cave 3 · A Buddha image near Mawlamyine 4 · A farmer works the land near Mawlamyine 5 · Sunrise on Kanthayar Lake
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Travel Period October – April.
Travel Duration Four days / three nights.
Group Size One – 20 persons.
Included in the Tour Accommodation based on room/half-board with daily lunch from day one until day three, all tours and transfers with a local English speaking guide, all entrance fees as outlined in the programme’s day-to-day itinerary.
Excluded from the Tour Other services and meals not included in the programme, optional 4 tours, tips, personal expenses, travel insurance, visa expenses and airfares.
Remarks Activities during the rainy season (May-September) may be subject to change when situations are considered unsafe to operate. It is recommended guests stay in Yangon before and after the tour.
5 Programme subject to change. 12 indonesia • 2018 - 2019
The Authentic Hues of Sumba
HIGHLIGHTS › One of Indonesia’s unexplored regions with traditional villages, ancient tombs and perfect beaches › Venture deep into the ancient animist beliefs of Sumba’s residents › Discover the islands untouched and pristine natural beauty
The island of Sumba is a clear example day 1, Tambolaka – Lamboya day 3, Kodi – Waikububak education courses in hospitality which of a road less travelled. Visitors › After landing at Sumba’s Tambolaka › Village life and the animist beliefs of enables young Sumbanese people to will find an untouched land of vast Airport, we will be met by a driver and the Sumba people are truly remarkable. secure work in the growing tourism savannah, pristine beaches and transferred to our accommodation on From viewing tombs at villages such sector. traditional villages that have stood the southwestern corner of the island. as Ratenggaro, with its postcard- the test of time. Ancient tombs, high After checking in, it is time to take a perfect beach, to relaxing in the day 4, Waikububak – Tambolaka priests and ceremonies are a way of light trek through the countryside, Weekuri Lagoon with its crystal clear › Today we will enjoy a leisurely life here. Although only a short flight accompanied by an expert guide. waters, Sumba surpasses expectations breakfast before being transferred to from Bali, this destination feels a around every corner. Today, we switch the airport for the flight back to our next million miles away and stepping onto day 2, Lamboya – Wanokaka accommodation to the Maringi Eco destination within Indonesia. Sumba will transport visitors back › Today involves exploration of the Resort which is part of the Sumba in time to a place untouched by the island’s natural beauty. We visit Lapopu Hospitality Foundation. Created by modern world. waterfalls – some of the most stunning Inge De Lathauwer, the Foundation cascades in the whole of Indonesia. believes all young people should get Here we can cool off with a dip in an opportunity in life to make a better the lagoon before heading south to future for themselves. Sumba is a Wanokaka’s white sandy beaches. Time beautiful, friendly island with a highly can be enjoyed here playing in the distinctive culture which is slowly surf and relaxing on the beach before developing into a tourism destination finishing the day with a cold drink as the and the Foundation is capitalising on sun sets over the surf. these assets by offering vocational
1 indonesia • 2018 - 2019 13
1 · Local boy on a horse next to a megalithic tomb 2 · Weekuri Lake 3 · Megalithic Tomb at Retenggaro 4 · Retenggaro Beach 5 · Sumba House
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Travel Period Throughout the year.
Travel Duration Four days / three nights.
Group Size One – 10 persons.
Included in the Tour Accommodation based on room/half-board with daily lunch from day one until day three, all tours and transfers with a local English speaking guide, all entrance fees as outlined in the programme’s day-to-day itinerary and local taxes, service changes and applicable value-added taxes. 4 Excluded from the Tour Other services and meals not included in the programme, optional tours, tips, personal expenses, travel insurance, visa expenses and airfares.
Remarks Tourism on Sumba is still very much in its infancy. Touring around the island is with a driver-guide whose English language skills may not be up to the standard of other Indonesian destinations. Accommodation en-route is basic and comes with standard amenities.
5 Programme subject to change. 14 cambodia • 2018 - 2019
Community-Based Tourism Project near Oudong
HIGHLIGHTS › Live the life of a Cambodian farmer on a traditional homestead › Sleep in a relaxing, rustic, wooden farmhouse › Enjoy local delicacies at the Smiling Gecko Farmhouse Restaurant
Founded on the principle of a day 1, Phnom Penh – Kampong day 2, Kampong Chhnang community-based sustainable Chhnang Province Province – Phnom Penh tourism project, Operators of › A leisurely two-hour drive from Phnom › The day arrives early in these the Smiling Gecko Farmstay Penh to Oudong signals the start of a provincial areas and we start with an have adopted a give-back-to-the- sustainable, agricultural experience in insight into the lives of industrious community approach in providing rural Cambodia. Reaching the Smiling Cambodians in a garment factory. We jobs to locals. This has created a Gecko Farm, guests will be initiated then get a different view of rural life as happy and productive environment by a guided tour through the various we head over to a local school where in which workers share their life farm and social projects surrounding children welcome a brand new day with experiences with guests. This the complex, followed by check-in to fun-filled rituals. Some of the income two-day excursion is the perfect a spacious stilt bungalow. After lunch from the Smiling Gecko Farm directly break from Phnom Penh and it also at the farm’s restaurant, a unique supports this school and provides provides a solid livelihood for those bamboo train conveys guests through children with the basic education they in need of work. picturesque farm communities. We then need to better their chances in life. Then explore an impressive hillside temple it is time to make our way back to the with exceptional scenic views. The day farmhouse restaurant for breakfast, concludes with a Khmer/Western fusion locally prepared and served with a smile. dining experience back at the farm. After checking out, it is time to head back to Phnom Penh, or to the airport, depending on individual itineraries.
1 cambodia • 2018 - 2019 15
1 · Your bed for the night at the traditional farm 2 · Agricultural insight from a friendly farmer 3 · Rolling countryside and farm projects 4 · Happy smiles from local schoolchildren 5 · Farmhouse at the Smiling Gecko homestay
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Travel Period Throughout the year.
Travel Duration Two days / one night.
Group Size One – 20 persons.
Included in the Tour Accommodation based on room/full-board, all tours and transfers with a local English speaking guide, all entrance fees as outlined in the programme’s day-to-day itinerary and local taxes, service charges and applicable value-added taxes.
Excluded from the Tour Other services not included in the programme, optional tours, tips, 4 personal expenses, travel insurance, visa expenses and airfares.
Remarks Accommodation at the Smiling Gecko Farmhouse is simple with basic amenities. School and garment factory visits may not be possible on weekend mornings and on public holidays.
5 Programme subject to change. 16 china • 2018 - 2019
Beyond Northern Yunnan’s Shangri-La
HIGHLIGHTS › Explore the ‘roof’ of Yunnan province – a scene of soaring peaks › Spend the night in small lodges that blend perfectly into the lofty landscape › Interact with the friendly inhabitants of this spectacular region
Nothing short of ‘magical’, ‘mystical’ day 1, Arrival at Shangri-La of the picturesque Tibetan villages that Yunnan’s highest peak, Mount and ‘breath-taking’ – these are > Reaching 3,000-metres above dot the mountain landscape. The clean, Kawagarbo, is a unique spiritual recollections of former tea trail sea level, a day of acclimatization is fresh air and the sublime scenery of experience. Guests have the option of caravanners of Northern Yunnan reserved after your arrival. this location will lift the spirits of those a hike up Baima Snow Mountain (six which is a true Shangri-La. Modern- on this excursion and return them hours), or exploration of daily life in a day travellers can share these day 2, Shangri-La – Benzilan home reinvigorated. local village. early traders’ experiences with > Impressive and hugely significant, the exploration of a land of snow-capped Songzanlin Monastery will be our first day 4, Benzilan – Meili day 6, Meili – Shangri-La peaks, pristine lakes and dizzyingly stop. Nicknamed ‘Little Potala’ after > New trails today lead to even more > Today, we view the uplifting sunrise deep valleys. Yunnan, which means the renowned Potala Palace in Lhasa, mountain magnificence. We see at Mount Kawagarbo. The rest of the ‘South of the Clouds’ offers visitors this monastery is regarded as Yunnan’s prominent peaks and guests reach the day involves the journey back in the diverse ethnic cultures, a colourful largest spiritual sanctuary. After lunch, highest point at around 4,300-metres direction of Shangri-La, with a stop at history and exceptional landscapes. we head to Benzilan where we make above sea level. With Mount Kawagarbo charming Napa Lake. Lunch is included a stop at Gonjo Village, a well-known as a back drop, we enjoy lunch as our at an authentic lodge near Benzilan. wood bowl painting settlement, before guide explains the importance of this calling it a day for a well-earned rest. area for pilgrimages. Printing our own day 7, Zhongdian/Shangri-La Tibetan prayer flags at a local home – departure day 3, Benzilan signifies our spiritual arrival in Meili. > Transfer to Deqin Airport is included. > The serenity of Benzilan forms the perfect background for an early day 5, Meili morning, meditative walk around a > Taking our new printed flags before
1 local prayer house. We then get a view sunrise as a token of worship towards china • 2018 - 2019 17
1 · Meili snow mountains 2 · The lush, fertile landscape of Yunnan 3 · The quaint streets of Shangri-La 4 · Making prayer flags 5 · Awe-inspiring Songzanlin Monastery
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Travel Period April – December.
Travel Duration Seven days / six nights.
Group Size One – 15 persons.
Included in the Tour Boutique lodges and hotels based on room/breakfast with all meals (locally flavoured with some western influences) included, all tours and transfers with a local English speaking guide, all entrance fees as outlined in the programme’s day-to-day itinerary and local taxes, service charges and applicable value-added taxes. 4 Excluded from the Tour Other services and meals that are not included in the programme, optional tours, tips, personal expenses, travel insurance, visa expenses and airfares.
Remarks We have chosen Tibetan-style accommodation throughout the tour. These are small lodges that embrace authenticity from all aspects. Due to high altitudes along the way, visitors are required to adapt accordingly by taking it slow and following the guide’s instructions.
5 Programme subject to change. 18 malaysia • 2018 - 2019
Exquisite ‘Glamping’ at Bukit Tinggi
HIGHLIGHTS › Explore Malaysia’s lush ‘green heart’ close to Kuala Lumpur › Spend the night under stars in a glamorous ‘glamping’ tent › Ease into relaxation mode during a gentle hike to Ulu Tampit Waterfall
Bringing people closer to nature day 1, Kuala Lumpur – Bukit day 2, Bukit Tinggi day 3, Bukit Tinggi – Kuala is one of Malaysia’s fortes and Tinggi › Early morning risers will get to admire Lumpur ‘glamping’ in the green heart of Janda › We leave Kuala Lumpur by four-wheel the amazing sunrises of this location. › Depending on the scheduled Baik offers the perfect experience. drive in the direction of the Genting After breakfast, it is time to explore departure time, guests are free to Although close to Kuala Lumpur, Highlands on a journey that will take the natural attractions, including enjoy this sanctuary at leisure. A range the countryside location belies approximately 45-minutes across hiking the seven-tier Ulu Tampit of optional tours can be booked to the 30-km distance to the capital. rugged inland roads. The presence of Waterfall for exceptional panoramic complement your glamping experience. Camping in luxury accommodation dense rainforests and mountain ranges views. A picnic lunch is served near to Transfer from the resort back to Kuala is the perfect restorative getaway. is seen as a warm-up before we reach this geographical splendour. Cultural Lumpur is included. Meet new friends around an open our camping grounds. En-route, our explorers will enjoy the walk through camp fire, sleep under a canopy professional drivers will show us their Bukit Tinggi with its own distinctive of stars and wake to the chorus of capabilities of driving off-road in the vibe and famed organically-produced nature. heart of the Malaysian Peninsula. Just products. The last evening of our tour is before the sun is about to set, we will celebrated with a BBQ dinner, complete reach our overnight address in the with an open fire, under a night of a Bukit Tinggi Valley. Spread across seven million stars. acres of pristine natural land, Tiarasa Escapes Safari Tents provide a haven of natural serenity, with gently-flowing streams and the sound of nature as a relaxing soundtrack.
1 malaysia • 2018 - 2019 19
1 · Glamping-style camp bedroom 2 · An open fire, BBQ and music under the stars 3 · Back to nature and yoga exercise 4 · Early morning at Janda Baik 5 · Luxury tents in an idyllic setting
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Travel Period Throughout the year.
Travel Duration Three days / two nights.
Group Size One – eight persons.
Included in the Tour Tented accommodation based on room/breakfast and one BBQ dinner on day two, local lunch on day two, all tours and transfers with a local English speaking guide, all entrance fees as outlined in the programme’s day-to-day itinerary and local taxes, service charges and applicable value-added taxes. 4 Excluded from the Tour Other services and meals that are not included in the programme, optional tours, tips, personal expenses, travel insurance, visa expenses and airfares.
Remarks Recommended for those with a decent physical condition. This tour is not suitable for guests with walking problems. The itinerary is subject to change depending on road and weather conditions.
5 Programme subject to change. 20 map australia & content
arafura sea
1 High Up North Down Under 1 >> page 22 Darwin Kakadu Litchfield National Park Katherine Cairns indian ocean coral sea
AUSTRALIA Brisbane
Perth Sydney Canberra
great Melbourne australian bight
TASMANIA
Hobart introduction 21
ou t of the or dina ry tou r s for ev eryone
Our programmes take individual and small group travel in a new direction. They are for travellers who don’t want to experience what everyone else already has.
They are for the seekers of a truly authentic and sustainable travel experience in the great outdoors, of local customs and charming hospitality, flavourful traditional cooking, stimulating art, and intriguing architecture. come explore with us. 22 australia • 2018 - 2019
High Up North Down Under
HIGHLIGHTS › Experience nature and the scenery of stunning Kakadu National Park › Discover indigenous culture in the outback region of Katherine › Explore and swim the magnificent waterfalls of Litchfield National Park
Darwin’s multicultural vibe – over 50 day 1, Darwin – Kakadu for birds such as eagles, parrots and day 4, Katherine – Litchfield nationalities are represented here − is › Upon arrival at Darwin Airport, we galahs. The best way to view the sheer National Park - Darwin famed globally. Exciting opportuni- head straight into the Australian ‘bush’ size of this magnificent destination is to › Part of the charm of Litchfield ties abound in the nation’s only tropi- towards Kakadu. Once a region of rice take an evening helicopter flight. National Park is its great accessibility – cal capital city, be it museums with paddies, the area is now an expansive just over an hour’s drive from Darwin, indigenous art, beachside markets, wetland called Mamukala and it is day 3, Kakadu – Katherine allowing extended exploration on dining in an eclectic mix of restau- home to diverse wildlife. Part of the › Moving onward to Katherine offers this final full-day. The park contains rants, or simply lazing beach-side. excitement starts as we reach the true outback adventure. We start with waterfalls, abundant rock pools, Beyond the city, a new world emerges Adelaide River and cruise the habitat trips to Leliyn and Edith Falls where iconic termite mounds and clusters – one that features the best nature- of jumping crocodiles. The evening is shallow pools offer opportunities to of sandstone pillars. Visitors can spot based exploration. With national spent at a prominent hotel. cool down, followed by a drive to wallabies, quolls and flying foxes and parks in all directions, Darwin is Nitmiluk National Park (Katherine the dragon-like water monitor that truly the ‘great outdoors’. day 2, Kakadu Gorge). This is a series of sandstone basks in the hot sun. › Kakadu town is firmly on the map ravines carved over millions of years for its extensive Aboriginal art sites. which snake the Katherine River. day 5 , Departure Landmarks such as Nourlangie Rock Activities include trekking, canoeing, or › Transfer from your hotel in Darwin to and Warradjan Aboriginal Cultural helicopter flights, with overnight at an the airport is included. Centre are prime examples of the Aboriginal-owned lodge. richness of the cultural heritage the indigenous Aboriginals created. We then cruise the waterway and look out
1 australia • 2018 - 2019 23
1 · Outback splendour at rugged Katherine Gorge 2 · The boats that cruise through crocodile habitats 3 · One of the gorges at Katherine 4 · A crocodile swims at Kakadu National Park 5 · The sun sets over Darwin
2 3
Travel Period Throughout the year.
Travel Duration Five days / four nights.
Group Size One – 20 persons.
Included in the Tour Accommodation based on room/breakfast, all entrance fees as outlined in the programme’s day-to-day itinerary and local taxes, service charges and applicable value-added taxes.
Excluded from the Tour Other services and meals not included in the programme, car rental, parking and toll fees, optional tours, gratuities, personal expenses, 4 travel insurance, visa expenses and airfares.
5 Programme subject to change. Explore Africa 2016
Out of the ordary tours for everyone
Great Outdoors · Local Customs · Charming Hospitality · Traditional Cooking · Stimulating Art · Intriguing Architecture
Explore Africa Explore India
1 titel
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Out of the ordary Out of the ordinary tours for everyone tours for everyone
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