Explore Asia 2017 - 2018

Out of the ordary Tours for everyone

Great Outdoors · Local Customs · Charming Hospitality · Traditional Cooking · Stimulating Art · Intriguing Architecture 2 map asia & content

Beijing

1 The Bayan Atu Eco Trail >> pages 4–5 Zhangye 6 2 The Colours of Culture Mekong (Lancang) River >> pages 6–7

3 The Banyuwangi Explorer >> pages 8–9 myanmar 4 The Magic of Southern Bagan philippine sea >> pages 10–11 laos 8 5 LuangPrabang Hanoi 5 Community-Based Tourism at Loei 2 Tamarind Lake Village Yangon 4 >> pages 12–13 thailand 7 vietnam Bangkok 6 The Brilliance of Danxia Siem Reap south Geographic Park china cambodia sea >> pages 14–15 Ho Chi Minh City 7 Glamping in the Lost City of Mahendraparvata >> pages 16–17 malaysia Kuala Lumpur malaysia 8 The Secrets of Ha Giang Kuching 1 >> page 18–19 indian ocean indonesia indonesia

Jakarta 3 Banyuwangi introduction 3

ou t of the or dina ry tou r s for ev eryone

Our 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 malaysia • 2017 - 2018

The Bayan Atu Eco Trail

Highlights › Set foot into unchartered rainforest territory within easy distance of Kuching › Hike to amazing waterfalls through lush jungles directed by expert local guides › Kayak to hidden off-the-beaten track beauty spots

Hidden deep in the Malaysian state day 1, Kuching – Bengoh Dam dip in one of these pools. After lunch, day 4, Bengoh Dam – Kuching of Sarawak on the island of Borneo, › A comfortable drive takes us from we continue to the inspiring Susung Falls. › The journey of discovery reaches a high Bayan Atuh Eco Retreat is the perfect Kuching to Padawan, a small township The immense power of this waterfall on the last day with a short uphill trek base to explore pristine landscapes. south of the Sarawak capital which marks prohibits swimming but it provides to take in a stunning vista that almost Our guests indulge in back-to-nature the start of our three-night/four-day excellent photo opportunities. Then it is unfolds out to the South China Sea. With adventures with hikes through forest exploration of this spectacular region. We time for high tea served at the homestay, lunch enroute, we complete our journey and mountain territory teeming with first stop at the impressive Bengoh Dam, followed by a delicious dinner. with arrival back in Kuching for guests’ exotic wildlife and abundant tropical an important water supply for the local respective onward journeys. plants. This excursion also includes area. Afterwards, a 20-minute boat trip day 3, Rainforest Kayaking boat trips to untouched countryside. over a clear lake brings us to the foothills › After taking in the natural splendour of This four-day trip has been designed of Kampung Sting for the final, uphill hike this paradise setting, it is time to visit one for adventure-seekers who relish to our homestay for the night. A local of the former head hunter settlements exceptional discovery tours in a vast dinner is prepared as we watch the sun- of the Bidayuh People, an ethnic tribe wilderness. set, bringing to an end the perfect day. that thrive off the fruits of the forest. Guests will learn about their fascinating day 2, Hikes and Waterfalls self-sufficiency lifestyle. Then, it is time around Susung to take to the water for a relaxing paddle › We are led by an expert guide to Kling in an environment few get to experience. Waterfalls. These are one of Mother This remote location is a haven for Nature’s most impressive creations; three wildlife and a kayak is the perfect craft tiers of water cascading down a rocky to view the local fauna and flora. A

1 promontory. Guests can take a refreshing traditional lunch is included. malaysia • 2017 - 2018 5

1 · Sarawak Weaving 2 · Boat Trip over Bengoh Lake 3 · Susung Waterfalls 4 · Borneo Landscape 5 · Susung Waterfalls

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Travel Period All year around.

Travel Duration 4 days / 3 nights.

Group Size 1–25 persons.

Included in the Tour Basic accommodation is based on a room/half-board dinner basis; all tours and transfers with a local English-speaking guide; other meals as indicated in the programme; all entrance and donation fees; the use of a kayak on day three.

Excluded from the Tour Other services and meals that are not included in the programme 4 including: travel insurance, visa expenses, airfares, personal expenses and optional programmes.

Remarks Recommended for experienced travellers with a decent physical condition. Accommodation at the Bayan Atuh Eco Retreat is very basic with shared facilities. The itinerary is subject to change depending on road and weather conditions.

5 Programme subject to change. 6 thailand • 2017 - 2018

The Colours of Mekong Culture

Highlights › Immerse yourself in an unknown and truly authentic part of Thailand › Find your inner creative talents by making Ton Puoeng and Pi Ta Khon craft products › Encounter the natural splendour of Loei province

A rare gem and a largely undiscovered day 1, Loei – Chiang Khan which is home to traditional wooden their own masks. The afternoon is at part of Thailand; Loei province has > After arrival at Loei Airport we buildings similar to Luang Prabang’s leisure but we have an abundance of all the essential ingredients for an transfer to Chiang Khan to rich architectural heritage. There will exciting optional tours on offer. authentic dish of culture, nature and visit the Na Pa Nhad-Tai Dam Cultural be ample time to explore glittering off-the-beaten track experiences. This Village and Museum. This attraction temples and interesting shops before day 4, Muang Loei remote destination borders Laos and provides a fascinating insight into rich we travel on to Dan Sai where guests > Our last day in Loei is focused on is a gateway to Isarn province. We local ethnic minority heritage. We can try their hand at making Ton nature and culture with a global theme. have devised a unique exploration then visit the Kaeng Khut Khu Rapids Puoeng which are used as sacred We travel to view Phu Pa Po which is that caters to all the senses, in for a boat ride that takes in the local offerings in temples. often compared with Japan’s Mount Fuji which authenticity, sustainability natural splendour. After checking into because of its iconic shape. Continuing and a touch of local traditions accommodation, guests are free to day 3, Dansai – Muang Loei the international vibe, we experience are interwoven into four days of explore Chiang Khan’s thriving local > After breakfast, we take to two- a slice of China’s Yunnan province with superlative travel. This tour proves night market and quaint bars and cafes. wheels to ride to local attractions such a visit to Bodhisat Cave and Stone that Thailand still ranks high for as Pra That Sri Song Rak and Neramitre Garden. We end our four-day adventure culturally rich experiences. day 2, Chiang Khan – Dan Sai Vipassana temples and the Phi Ta Khon with transfer back to Loei Airport. > Donating early morning alms Museum. This fascinating attraction to monks has been a tradition for is themed around the annual Phi Ta centuries and participating in this Khon festival which involves residents spiritual activity is an enriching wearing colourful ghost masks created experience and a wonderful photo artistically from local materials such as opportunity. After breakfast, a guided sticky rice steamers and coconut husks.

1 tour takes in charming Chiang Khan, Guests get the opportunity to make thailand • 2017 - 2018 7

1 · Local market in Chiang Khan 2 · Wat Neramitre Vipassana 3 · Local transport near Suan Pha Hin Ngam 4 · Phi Ta Khon Mask 5 · Setting sun in Loei province

2 3

Travel Period All year around.

Travel Duration 4 days / 3 nights.

Group Size 1–9 persons.

Included in the Tour Accommodation is based on a room/breakfast basis; all tours and transfers with a local English-speaking guide; all meals, starting from lunch on day one, until lunch on day four; all entrance and donation fees.

Excluded from the Tour Other services and meals that are not included in the programme 4 including: travel insurance, visa expenses, airfares, personal expenses and optional programmes.

Remarks We encourage visitors to partake in the various tours as part of our commitment to supporting local community activities and undertaking low carbon, lifestyle and creative tourism initiatives.

5 Programme subject to change. 8 indonesia • 2017 - 2018

The Banyuwangi Explorer

Highlights › The perfect add-on from Bali tours with a unique experience › Climb up Mount Ijen and witness the exceptional atmosphere of this imposing volcano region › Get a taste of the various spices and fruits growing in abundance at a local plantation

Just a short ferry ride from Bali, day 1, Arrival at Banyuwangi day 3, Pantai Pulau Merah or day 4, Kaliklatak Planation – the “Island of Gods”, Banyuwangi > We book the first night for guests Alas Purwo National Park departure from Banyuwangi is not normally on most traveller’s prior to the start of our adventure > This is a day that can be filled > After breakfast, the slopes of Mount itinerary. However, this tour with programme. Enjoy wandering around according to guests’ wishes with two Ijen are again our destination for an a difference offers a fascinating Banyuwangi, meet its hospitable options. Pantai Pulau Merah is famous interesting adventure day out. Situated insight into the home of the Osig residents and explore this destination at for its pristine white sandy beach and is between 450 and 800 metres above people whose ancestral ties dates leisure. perfect for a day spent relaxing on a sun sea level, the Kaliklatak Plantation was back to ancient times. This excursion bed. A few restaurants dot the beach once Dutch-owned but is now cherished will unveil new exploration day 2, Climbing Mount Ijen and serve local cuisine and international and maintained by a local businessman. opportunities for seasoned travellers > A four-hour, four-wheeled drive favourites. If you prefer a more active The ideal climate and fertile soil makes who will be taken to the outer ride takes guests along winding, day, opt for the full-day hike through it the perfect spot to grow and cultivate corner of Java, which is home to the mountainous roads to the base of Alas Purwo National Park. This is filled numerous spices, rubber and fruits. prehistorical landscape of its star Mount Ijen at Paltuding where we reach with wildlife and panoramic views Nothing beats taking in the exhilarating volcano attraction; the Ijen plateau. the starting point for an exhilarating from Sadengan Observation Tower. views over Java with a cup of coffee or 90-minute hike in search of incredible The Alas Purwo National Park option tea served at this stunning location. views. The eerie-looking lake on the includes a picnic lunch. Both tours 2,883-metre high summit is the result include a comfortable transfer back to of huge sulphur deposits, giving this accommodation. location its desolate and barren look as smoke billows unexpectedly out of numerous crevices.

1 indonesia • 2017 - 2018 9

1 · Wide vistas at Alas Purwo 2 · Mount Ijen Crater 3 · Pantai Pulau Merah 4 · Sulphur Miner at Mount Ijen 5 · Entrance Kaliklatak Plantation

2 3

Travel Period All year aroud.

Travel Duration 4 days / 3 night.

Group Size 1–14 persons.

Included in the Tour Accommodation is based on a room sharing basis with breakfast; all tours with a local English-speaking guide; other meals as indicated in the programme; all entrance and donation fees.

Excluded from the Tour Other services and meals that are not included in the programme including: arrival transfer, travel insurance, visa expenses, airfares, 4 personal expenses and optional programmes.

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. 10 laos • 2017 - 2018

The Magic of Southern Laos

Highlights › Savour the flavour of delicious Laotian coffee at Bolaven Plateau › Get a new perspective of Southern Laos, including the UNESCO-listed site of Vat Phu › Get a hands-on insight in the daily lives of traditional fishermen and farmers

Champasak province is blessed day 1, Pakse – Bolaven venture further south to our charming day 4, Don Khong Island with impressive natural scenery, > Day one is a mixture of tasting fresh overnight stay at Don Daeng for dinner > Fishing abundant waters and working including abundant waterfalls and local coffee and visiting impressive and relaxation. the lush fertile lands on Don Khong towering plateaus that unfold around waterfalls. A leisurely drive up to the is the main source of living for the every bend of the river or road. Bolaven Plateau, the cradle of Laotian day 3, Don Daeng – Don local community. Our guests have a Encompassing the entire southern coffee, includes visits to numerous Khong Island unique opportunity to give back to part of Laos, this tour takes in the majestic waterfalls and trying out the > After breakfast, we continue south these people by participating in a natural splendour of the land for five aromatic local brew. This is a unique to just a stone’s throw from the Laos- community-based project at Done days. We follow the contours of the opportunity to spend the night in the Cambodia border. The Khonphapeng Loppadi and Done Sang. This was mighty Mekong; visit famous coffee heart of a coffee plantation. Waterfalls are among the most created to build the skills-base of local plantations; and join in with the locals impressive in size and volume in the fishermen and farmers. Our guests can as they fish and farm in a truly idyllic day 2, Bolaven – Don Daeng whole of Southeast Asia and bear the learn local skills such as net fishing, setting. > We head back in the direction of the nickname the “second Niagara Falls”. basket weaving or cooking sticky rice. meandering Mekong River and the A few French influences in this part Sharing these trademark skills will be a temple ruins of Vat Phu. Designated of Laos remain such as an old railroad memory to treasure for ever. by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site, bridge and a abandoned locomotive this spiritual place dates back before left behind by the departing Europeans. day 5, Don Khong – Pakse – Angkor Wat and it is a ‘must visit’ We next admire the unique beauty of Dong Kalor attraction in Southern Laos. The temple the Liphi Waterfalls and check in to the > After breakfast, it is time to head is constructed on three levels and Don Khong resort. back to Pakse or cross the border offers sublime views of the Mekong into Cambodia depending on guests’

1 and mountainous landscape. We then respective schedules. laos • 2017 - 2018 11

1 · Si Phan Don, Laos 2 · Vat Phou 3 · Fisherman on the Mekong River 4 · Bolaven Plateau coffee plantation 5 · Tad Fane Waterfalls

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Travel Period All year around.

Travel Duration 5 days / 4 nights.

Group Size 1–15 persons.

Included in the Tour Accommodation is based on a room/breakfast basis; all lunches from day one until day five, dinner from days one until day four, all tours and transfers with a local English-speaking guide; all entrance and donation fees.

Excluded from the Tour Other services and meals that are not included in the programme 4 including: travel insurance, visa expenses, airfares, personal expenses and optional programmes.

Remarks Recommended for experienced travellers with a decent physical condition. The itinerary is subject to change depending on road and weather conditions.

5 Programme subject to change. 12 myanmar • 2017 - 2018

Community-Based Tourism at Tamarind Lake Village

Highlights › A unique insight in local life in rural Myanmar, developed around a community-based tourism project outside Bagan › Visit non-touristic temples and monasteries, renowned for their Buddha images and wood carvings › Short walking and cycling excursions, bringing guests up close and personal with the local villagers

A growing interest in unconventional day 1, Bagan – Sale / Magyikan King Anawratha welcomed the teachings day 2, Sale / Magyikan Village tourism that takes guests beyond Village of Lord Buddha into the region. – Bagan the Bagan Plains and its mainstream › The day starts with a one-hour drive Cycling offers a route to new perspec- Every day in Magyikan Village starts tourism has led to the development south to Sale, a small local town along tives of the local area and as we take to early. After breakfast, guests are free of a community-based tourism (CBT) the banks of the Irrawaddy River. The two-wheels we will find secret shortcuts to wander around the village and meet project. This two-day/one-night journey takes guests through small through bean and peanut plantations, with village chiefs who are happy to itinerary has set new standards in out villages, including the thriving local rice paddy fields and rustic, local settle- explain how the CBT project came to of the ordinary travel experiences. market at Chauk and a few interesting ments. We make a stop at a traditional life and how it provides support to Guests will get a unique insight into monasteries known for their sacred brick factory to see how local commerce residents. You can follow one of the local life as they mingle with the Buddha images. In particular, the wood is handed down from generation-to- locals into the fields to witness how the people of Magyikan Village. Nothing carvings at the Yoke Sone Monastery are generation. Tamarind Lake Village will community provides for all families in a beats getting back to basics for one among the finest in the country. be our final stop. This is where a CBT sustainable manner that also has great night knowing you have directly A local lunch is served along the project provides direct support to the respect for the environment. We then contributed to the well-being of local Irrawaddy river bank. This stop takes in a numerous families in this community. leave our new friends and head back to residents. small museum which houses antiquities We then check in to a ‘long-legged’ Bagan for a late morning arrival. and artefacts that provide an insight house, specifically built for this project. in the affluence of what once was the Here you will live like a local and be home of a wealthy local businessman. served a home-cooked dinner. Continuing the journey, the five pagodas, constructed by five brothers, at Shin Pin Sar Kyo remain untouched

1 by tourism. This is the site where former myanmar • 2017 - 2018 13

1 · Local rice farming 2 · Children posing for the camera 3 · Local food served 4 · Shared accommodation at the village 5 · Local wet market along the way

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Travel Period All year around.

Travel Duration 2 days / 1 nights.

Group Size 1–8 persons.

Included in the Tour Accommodation is based on a shared room/breakfast basis; all tours and transfers with a local English-speaking guide; meals as indicated in the programme; all entrance and donation fees; use of bicycles.

Excluded from the Tour Other services and meals that are not included in the programme including: travel insurance, visa expenses, airfares, personal expenses 4 and optional programmes.

Remarks The itinerary is subject to change depending on road and weather conditions. Accommodation at this CBT is very basic with shared facilities.

5 Programme subject to change. 14 china • 2017 - 2018

The Brilliance of Danxia Geographic Park

Highlights › Sublime vistas, covering a multitude of colours at the Danxia Geographic Park › Get a chance to see lesser-visited parts of the Great Wall of China › Travel by train from Zhangye to – a truly relaxing way to admire Northern China

The swirling multiple shades of day 1, – Jiayuguan day 3, Zhangye / Danxia Hoof Temple dates back to the Eastern brown, yellow, orange and white › The journey starts with a flight from Geographic Park (317–420 AD) and it has have made Zhangye Danxia Beijing to Jiayuguan (via Lanzhou) to › Inscribed onto the prestigious some of the most impressive mountain Geographic Park a magical sight northern China. Guests are warmly UNESCO World Heritage List, the backdrops in China. We include stops to behold in China. This UNESCO welcomed by our guide who will coloured vistas from well-maintained at the Hanging Temple with its grottoes World Heritage site near Zhangye is oversee their transfer to the overnight paths in Zhangye’s Danxia Geographic and the lesser-known, yet impressive one of the many highlights in our off- accommodation. Park will leave an ever-lasting nevertheless, Mogao Grottoes at the-beaten track venture into hidden impression. The waves of colours . Some of the original art China. From traditional temples to day 2, Jiayuguan – Zhangye covering almost all the hues of a work and relics in these spots remain exploring one of the lesser known Today’s four-hour drive brings guests rainbow are the result of a long period visible. After lunch, we go to Zhangye parts of the Great Wall, guests will over the Jiayuguan Pass, just southwest of erosion of red sandstone and karst. train station for a scenic nine-hour rail be treated to a multitude of unique of downtown Jiayuguan, where we With isolated peaks, ravines and journey to Lanzhou for the overnight experiences that give a different make a stop at one of the main passes mountain ranges as the back drop, we stay. picture of this vast land. of the Great Wall in the western part focus our sightseeing on two highly of China. The Pass and this section interesting parts of this Park; Binggou day 5, Lanzhou – Beijing of the Great Wall were once part of Danxia and Qicai Danxia before After breakfast, it is time to say the famous . We will explore heading back to the hotel for dinner. goodbye to Lanzhou for the transfer to a large part of this ancient military the airport for a flight back to Beijing. defence before moving on to our simple day 4, Zhangye – Lanzhou overnight address in Zhangye. Dinner › A long day lies ahead but what a day will be served at a local restaurant. it will be! The region around the Horse

1 china • 2017 - 2018 15

1 · Zhangye 2 · Danxia Geograpic Park 3 · Jiayuguan Pass 4 · Buddhist Temple in Zhangye 5 · Tibetan Influences near Zhangye

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Travel Period All year around – best period between June and September.

Travel Duration 5 days / 4 nights.

Group Size Minimum 1 person – maximum 20 persons.

Included in the Tour Accommodation is based on room/breakfast basis; all tours and transfers with a local English-speaking guide; meals as indicated in the programme (two dinners and one lunch); all entrance and donation fees, train ticket from Zhangye to Lanzhou.

Excluded from the Tour Other services and meals that are not included in the programme 4 including: travel insurance, visa expenses, airfares, personal expenses and optional programmes.

Remarks Recommended for experienced travellers with a decent physical condition. The itinerary is subject to change depending on road and weather conditions.

5 Programme subject to change. 16 cambodia • 2017 - 2018

Glamping in the Lost City of Mahendraparvata

Highlights › Glamping in the middle of a national park, within the vicinity of one of Cambodia’s most sacred mountains › Explore hundreds of meticulously carved symbols on the riverbanks of Mount Kulen › Intimacy redefined; dine among the stars with hundreds of lights around the restaurant

Considered to be the most sacred day 1, Siem Reap – Phnom Kulen A picnic lunch is served before we Built in the 16th century, this monastery mountain in Cambodia, Phnom > We leave Siem Reap in the morning move to our tented camp situated next is famous and revered for its reclining, Kulen is an important place of for a 45-minute drive and waste little to a slow-moving stream. The overnight gilded Buddha and it serves as an pilgrimage. It played a significant time enroute as the national park and accommodation is a fully-furnished important pilgrimage site for devout role in the history of the Khmer its plethora of relics reminding us of safari tent with modern amenities. Buddhists. We transfer back to Siem empire, as it was from here in AD the rule of King Jayavaraman will fill the Ample time will be available to take Reap at around midday. 802 that Jayavarman II proclaimed day easily. One of the main sights lies a swim in an almost private pond himself a god-king, thereby in the riverbeds – hundreds of carvings or simply relax in the tent. The real signalling the birth of the Khmer of lingas (an abstract representation magic starts at sunset as hundreds of era. Principal attractions include of Shiva) and Yoni (a stylised candles and lanterns light-up the site hundreds of lingas carved into the representation of female genitalia) around the dining area. Chefs from riverbed and exquisite temples. etched into the sandstone, offering a distinguished dining establishments Guests will camp out in style for two magical yet mysterious atmosphere. in Siem Reap will prepare a number of days in the “City of Gods”. Waterfalls form the perfect backdrop for renowned Cambodian dishes. Then it is an ‘Indiana Jones’ style environment. By time to sleep in luxury under the stars. four-wheel drive we move deeper into the national park, visiting a large bat day 2, Phnom Kulen – Siem Reap cave and Srah Dumrei, or Elephant Pond > Early risers will thoroughly enjoy the where numerous animals are carved fresh morning air, blended with the out of sand stone. Some walking will be smell of breakfast. We check out of our required to explore this phenomenal tented accommodation and commence

1 area. with a short hike to Preah Ang Thom. cambodia • 2017 - 2018 17

1 · Table setting at restaurant 2 · Tropical waterfall Phnom Kulen 3 · Exploration around the tented camp 4 · Dining under the Stars 5 · Stone carvings in the water

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Travel Period December – February only.

Travel Duration 2 days / 1 night.

Group Size 1–20 persons.

Included in the Tour Accommodation is based on a tent on half board basis; all tours and transfers with a local English-speaking guide; a picnic lunch and dinner on day one; other meals as indicated in the programme; all entrance and donation fees.

Excluded from the Tour Other services and meals that are not included in the programme 4 including: travel insurance, visa expenses, airfares, personal expenses and optional programmes.

Remarks We recommend booking the campsite only from mid-December to February due to the weather conditions. The tents are comfortable safari-style structures but do not have air-conditioning, hot water or Wi-Fi.

5 Programme subject to change. 18 vietnam • 2017 - 2018

The Secrets of Ha Giang

Highlights › Explore some of the most scenic mountain range roads in Vietnam › Get an insight into the remote and spectacular natural region of Ha Giang › Trek to hill tribe villages for a truly off-the-beaten-track experience

Ha Giang... the final frontier. Close day 1, Ha Noi – Quan Ba Leng, the highest pass in northwestern day 4, Hoang Su Phi to the border with China, this remote › The trip from Hanoi to the local Vietnam. Colonial remains of the › Guests spend two nights in a destination is slowly gaining ground overnight address in Quan Ba may French rulers are dotted along the way sustainable eco-resort and use this as a as the new adventure capital of this be a long trip but it is the start of an towards our charming accommodation base to explore the region. A five-hour fascinating country. We are talking authentic exploration of Vietnam. With in Meo Vac. This is a day that is themed hike passing rice terraces and ethnic truly mind-blowing scenery here numerous photo stops along the way, around the ever-present influences – minorities brings us closer to nature. where around every bend lies a new we then hike towards a Tay ethnic both past and present – of the local Optional herbal baths to enrich mind, amazing vista of limestone pinnacles settlement. It takes a two-hour drive H’Mong people. body and soul are available before or granite outcrops. Local homestays through an enchanted region to reach turning in for the night. and eco-lodges, where authenticity Nam Dam Lodge near a Dao ethnic day 3, Meo Vac – Hoang Su Phi and traditions are preserved, are village. › Discerned explorers will definitely day 5, Hoang Su Phi – Ha Noi selected on this five-day exploration look forward to today as we leave Meo › Before reaching the end of this so guests can have a truly out of the day 2, Quan Ba – Meo Vac Vac and drive through Du Gia and Mau adventure in Hanoi, an optional stop ordinary experience. › The day starts with a hike up to Due. True Vietnam will present itself at Thai Nguyen to visit the Ethnology Heaven Gate’s summit before making with markets and local villages dotted Museum which gives an insight into the our way through small hill tribe along the landscape. Keep your camera numerous ethnic groups of Vietnam communities, who are masters of handy as we may encounter a few can be included. weaving and batik techniques. After surprises along the way to Hoang Su a simple lunch, we head onto twisting Phi. In the afternoon, we explore the mountain roads with panoramic views centre of the Shan Tuyet Tea region. that are truly unique. Literally, the peak

1 of this day will be summiting Ma Pi vietnam • 2017 - 2018 19

1 · Auberge de Meo Vac Homestay 2 · Woman walking through Dong Van 3 · Happy Road around Ma Pi Leng Pass 4 · Ha Giang Valley 5 · Rice Terraces in Northern Vietnam

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Travel Period All-year around, except between June and July.

Travel Duration 5 days / 4 nights.

Group Size 2–15 persons.

Included in the Tour Accommodation is based on room/breakfast; all tours and transfers with a local English-speaking guide; other meals as indicated in the programme; all entrance and donation fees: travel permits.

Excluded from the Tour Other services and meals that are not included in the programme including: travel insurance, visa expenses, airfares, personal expenses 4 and optional programmes.

Remarks Overnight accommodation and camps are simple, basic accommodation. The outlined itinerary is subject to change depending on road and weather conditions as well as accommodation availability. Travel permission and a local guide are required for tourists traveling in this border area, even though guests are escorted by an Asian Trails guide.

5 Programme subject to change. 20 map australia & content

arafura sea

1 Expedition to an Ancient Landscape Darwin >> page 22

Cairns indian ocean coral sea

1 Alice Springs

australia Brisbane

Perth Sydney Adelaide 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 • 2017 - 2018

Expedition to an Ancient Landscape

Highlights › Follow the trails of ancient traders and travellers during the times of the ‘Cameleers’ › Roll out a traditional stockman’s swag bag and sleep under millions of stars › Take in imposing Uluru – the most sacred site of the native Australian people

The alluring outback of Australia is day 1, Flinders Ranges day 3, Oodnadatta Track day 5 – 6, Simpson Desert one of the most remote regions on the › Highlights include a walk through › Following the trails of ancient traders › An oasis is the best way to cool down planet. Numerous shades of earth Alligator Gorge National Park and a and travellers during the times of the and the Simpson Desert has a few that tones, desolate rock formations and journey through Pichi Richi Pass to Cameleers, we enter true Aboriginal enable this experience. Take a cooling deserted mining stations dot the the historic township of Quorn. Here land. The Arabunna Centre showcases plunge at one of the recommended main transportation routes towards we explore this spectacular area on the arts and crafts of the indigenous water holes, depending on the season. Aboriginal territory around Alice camels. An Aboriginal elder will tell us people. Next, the views over Lake Springs. Let’s take it slow as we head first-hand about their ancient culture. Eyre are not to be missed while taking day 7-9, Uluru – Kata Tjuta the out from Adelaide into the heart of Then it is time to roll out the swag bags a refreshing dip in thermal springs, Olga’s – Kings Canyon the rugged side of Australia where and sleep under millions of stars. followed by an icy beer at a bush pub. › The most holy site of the Aboriginals, natural sights aplenty await the Uluru, is a huge monolith in a vast intrepid adventurer. day 2, Wilpena Pound and the day 4, Coober Pedy expanse of land. Guests will be North › Mining for precious stones has taken on a tour around this spiritual › After leaving Flinders Ranges, we visit been a time-honoured tradition for monument, followed by a hike to the the Yourambulla Caves which lift the generations and touring the Cooper canyons of Kata Tjuta and the Olgas. veil on the historical importance of this Pedy Underground Opal Mining region. Then we undertake a bush walk landscape gives a fascinating insight day 10, Western Macdonnell at Wilpena Pound, followed by a visit to into this lucrative business. Let us Ranges / Alice Springs the renowned Bunyeroo and Brachina then take your breath away with a trip › The adventure ends viewing Gorges. through the magical “Painted Desert”. magnificent gorges and swimming in cooling waterholes, followed by a trip to

1 the famous desert town of Alice Springs. australia • 2017 - 2018 23

1 · Artistic sculptures in the Outback 2 · Ayers Rock at Kata Tjuta N.P. 3 · The real Australian Outback 4 · Darling River 5 · Beware of crossing kangaroos

2 3

Travel Period All year around, departs every Monday and Thursday from Adelaide.

Travel Duration 10 days / 9 nights.

Group Size minimum 1 person, maximum 13 persons.

Included in the Tour Accommodation is based on a room/breakfast basis; all tours and transfers; other meals as indicated in the programme; all entrance and donation fees.

Excluded from the Tour Other services and meals that are not included in the programme including: travel insurance, visa expenses, airfares, personal expenses 4 and optional programmes.

5 Programme subject to change. Explore Africa 2016

Out of the ordary tours for everyone

Great Outdoors · Local Customs · Charming Hospitality · Traditional Cooking · Stimulating Art · Intriguing Architecture

Explore Africa Explore India

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ou t of the or dina ry tou r s for ev eryone 2017 - 2018 Explore the Middle East Explore North America 2016 2016

Out of the ordary Out of the ordinary com e ex plor e w ith us. tours for everyone tours for everyone

Great OutdOOrs.lOcal custOms Great Outdoors · Local Customs · www.asiantrails.travel charminG hOspitality.traditiOnal Charming Hospitality · Traditional Cooking · cOOkinG Stimulating Art · Intriguing Architecture [email protected] Explore the Middle East Explore North America