Vietnam — Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar 2019-2020 Independent Tours
HELEN WONG’S TOURS 2019 - 2020 30 years always there for you…
ietnam is a country filled with passion, pride Vand patriotism. Endless opportunities open up to experiences. I love its divine culture, tasty cuisine and intriguing history of what can only be described as a fascinating country. There are many faces around its neighbourhood, the charms of Cambodia, the mysteries of Myanmar and the laid back features of Laos. Having spent much of my life in travel, I am happy to say that my love in Asia and my passion have never been stronger. It’s hard to believe that it was over three decades ago that Helen Wong’s Tours was established and the fact that during that time we have been promoting and organising tours for tens of thousands of satisfied Australians. We remain a privately-owned company with a continued focus on providing personalised service to our many clients. Our pride and passion is one of our strengths, a unique achievement and one that guarantees our clients are completely confident with our experience and professionalism. For all those who have toured – or repeatedly toured – with Helen Wong’s Tours, I want to wholeheartedly say ‘thank you’. I wish to pass on a special ‘thank you’ also to the staff – past and present – for their dedication and contribution in making the company what it is today. Then there are the frontline tour directors and local guides who worked tirelessly to make each journey a memorable one for our clients. We continue to deliver the best products and services – for years to come.
Helen Wong Founder & Managing Director China Gems China
ur service offers you a ‘hassle-free’ experience for Oyou to enjoy the wonderful region of Indochina. We’re there for you at every step – from your first call until your return home.
HOTEL - QUALITY AND PROFESSIONAL SERVICES IDEAL LOCATION Having been in the travel business The importance of a relaxing stay and for over 30 years, we are a good night’s sleep stems from the respected market leader, in fact, quality, comfort and location one of the longest established tour of the hotel. Our hotels have been operators in Australia. Our hand-picked and provide you with experience and general depth of good quality breakfasts to start your knowledge have earned us a day. They are essential elements in reputation as a true travel expert. our programs. We give you peace It’s a position built on quality, of mind as you will know exactly what professionalism and personalised standard and where you will be service. staying when you book and pay for your holiday. OUR TEAM SOLO TRAVELLERS WILLING Professional TO SHARE Expert You may travel solo but are happy to Dedicated share a room with another tour Passionate member to avoid paying a single room supplement. Let us know at the time of booking, and we OUR GUIDES will endeavour to match you with another solo traveller of the same Knowledgeable gender so you don’t need to pay the Delightful supplement. If you choose to have Experienced sole occupancy of a room throughout Responsible the journey, the specified single supplement cost will apply. TOUR ESCORTS DINING Committed e n u e re t e On hand un e n nner er n Supportive u t e e t t e ur n n t u t ur t te n u et Guidance n u t e n e t er tr n e t re t u re t ur nt r er u n e u un e n entur u e er en e
3 Contents r te Journeys n u er n age. 14 - 35 ur program has been carefully 1 Days 1 Days Ocrafted to highlight the iconic sights and diverse culture of every city in your Glimpse of Vietnam Culinary Delights journey. Whether you are a lover of Page. 14 - 15 Page. 16 - 17 the arts, architecture, gourmet dining, shopping nature, parks and gardens – Ideal for those with limited time, this tour A perfect combination of home cooking or just an avid people-watcher – there is takes in major highlights, from the bustling to fine dining, you will enjoy some of the southern city of Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) top restaurants along with the best finds something for you. Our range of and the fascinating Mekong Delta to the when it comes to street food and hands-on journeys is designed for those who wish historic hub of Hoi An and the imperial cooking classes. The journey encompasses to capture the true essence of Indochina influences of Hue, culminating in a leisure Vietnam’s contrasting cities and those of in a mostly all-inclusive holiday package. cruise of beautiful Halong Bay and a stay in thriving riverside towns, quaint historical dynamic capital Hanoi communities and scenic Halong Bay
1 Days Halong to Mekong Page. 18 - 19 Explore the most beautiful regions of Vietnam – Halong Bay, Ninh Binh and Mai Chau in the North and visit the unique charm of Hoi An old town. Wander amongst vibrant tropical fruit gardens and the thriving river communities of the Mekong River in the South
1 Days Reflections of Vietnam Page. 20 - 21 Journey to the war sites where one of the most important battles took place and were significant to the Australia experience of the Vietnam War. Visit the demilitarized zone which demarcated North and South Vietnam during the War. Journey through the trails from yesteryear and explore all the highlights of today
1 Day Days Best of Vietnam Vietnam Explorer Page. 22 - 23 Page. 24 - 25 Expect the best on a journey that focuses on On a journey showcases the wonderfully the historical past of Ho Chi Minh City and diverse nature of Vietnam, experience a the lushness of the Mekong before heading culturally colourful yet modern Ho Chi Minh north to quaint historic towns and bustling City and lush Mekong Delta before heading central to the beaches of Nha Trang and Hanoi. It’s a journey which also unveils the journey north to Sapa where we experience the beauty of breathtaking Halong Bay and Sapa friendly greetings of the minority nationality in the mountain region where the beautiful groups and the timeless charm of their quaint minority people live villages and highland communities
4 1 Days 1 Days Contents Angkor & Vietnam Cambodia & Vietnam Discovery Odyssey Page. 26 - 27 Page. 28 - 29 From the ancient magnificence and beauty Combine Cambodia’s interesting past with of spiritual Angkor Wat where time has stood that of Vietnam and you have a wonderful still for centuries to the rich farming region combo which covers two ancient lands and of the Mekong Delta. Discover the charm of the bustling river communities, big cities and Hoi An & Mystical Halong Bay, this journey charming old towns that dot them, including covers the best of two worlds – old and new scenic Halong Bay
Days Charms of Laos Page. 30 - 31 1 Days An adventure into the hidden treasure of authentic Indochina – Laos retains many Charms of Myanmar of the traditions. There is a timeless quality to rural life, tribal crafts, colourful markets, Page. 32 - 33 French colonial architecture, saffron-robed Journey to one of the most magical monks and smiling faces, stilt houses and and undiscovered destinations in the paddy fields look like that they are straight world, the breathtaking beauty and out of paintings. charm that is steeped in fascinating history and traditions. Step back in time and explore the magic with its friendly smiles, colonial architecture, 1 Days dazzling pagodas and stupas Charms of Cambodia Page. 34 - 35 Uncover the essence of Cambodia, the temples of Angkor, colonial mansions and remote rural communities. Experience the rhythm of rural life, the mountainous scenery, the landscapes of dazzling rice and an abundance of natural attractions
t e
Journeys Page. 36 - 45
he Indochina region has so much to offer. Our Private TJourneys are designed for you or family with children who prefer a little independence. Flexible alternative, own choice of travel date at your own pace, or explore some of the exotic cities, a private guide to yourself.
Terms and Conditions Page. 46 Booking Form Page. 47
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See your Travel Agent or Call 1300 788 328 - helenwongstours.com 5 Accommodation Our guaranteed hotels
ur hotels have been hand-picked and carefully chosen for quality Oand ideal location, and provide you with good quality breakfasts to start your day. Most importantly, we give you peace of mind and security as you will know exactly what standard of hotel and where you will be staying when you book and pay for your holiday.
Vietnam Victoria Can Tho Hotel - Can Tho
Can Tho Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City) Victoria Can Tho Hotel Grand Hotel In the centre of the Mekong Delta, this 4 One of the oldest hotels in Ho Chi Minh City, star hotel is set amidst landscaped gardens the Grand Hotel retains a French colonial by the Hau River. Guests will experience style and is centrally located in the city’s a perfect mix of charming colonial style scenic riverside area, within walking distance architecture and modern comfort. of many attractions and entertainment The Ann Hotel - Hanoi centre. Hotel facilities include restaurants, Hanoi bar, spa and pool. The Ann Hotel Sapa Close to Hanoi’s Old Quarter and many major key landmarks, this 4 star hotel has a range Victoria Sapa Hotel of brightly decorated and furnished rooms. Inspired by a traditional mountain chalet The hotel’s prime features are a stylish A design, this luxury 4 star property exists Lounge piano bar and a contemporary The in close harmony with beautiful natural Onyx House restaurant, outdoor swimming surroundings and the friendly local hill tribe pool, gymnasium, sauna and Jacuzzi. people of the region. Hoi An Historic Hotel - Hoi An Hoi An Halong Bay Cruise Hoi An Historic Hotel Pelican Cruise Ideally located within the heart of the old ‘Pelican Cruise’ offers a pleasurable way town, this award winning 4 star hotel offers to take in the spectacular views of Halong guests an extensive range of facilities, Bay. The vessel boasts inviting international excellent service and 160 spacious rooms standard and spacious cabins, a large with a range of stylish and comfortable sundeck with comfortable lounge furniture. features. Grand Hotel - Saigon Hue Alba Spa Hotel Set in the heart of the historic city, a stone’s throw from the ancient Trang Tien Bridge, the Huong River and the famous Hue Imperial City, this 4 star hotel is a tranquil modern sanctuary nestling in a quiet lane with 58 lovingly-furnished rooms decorated with a different theme. Alba Spa Hotel - Hue Victoria Sapa Hotel - Sapa Nha Trang Novotel Hotel A stylish 4 star hotel located on the main street and within walking distance of popular local restaurants, shopping and entertainment. With a range of first class resort facilities and in-room features, guests are ensured a relaxed and comfortable stay.
Novotel Hotel - Nha Trang Pelican Cruise - Halong Bay Cruise
6 Cambodia Laos Accommodation
Siem Reap Vientiane Lotus Blanc Resort & Spa The Best Western A premier 4 star boutique resort located in This 4-star hotel is ideally located in the the heart of Siem Reap. Recently refurbished, heart of old Vientiane, a minute walk to the the hotel has a new Lobby Lounge, full Mekong River. Shopping areas, restaurants service spa, business centre, restaurant, bar and tourist attractions are also nearby. The and 101 guest rooms which feature classic hotel has well-appointed rooms with an Cambodian décor. The Best Western - Vientiane outdoor pool and fitness centre, and high-speed wifi. Phnom Penh Luang Prabang Himawari Hotel Saddled on the banks of the Tonle Sap River, te in the heart of Phnom Penh, this hotel is te n t e e rt u n r n t ideally positioned within walking distance n u e re ur e tru ture to some of the city’s main attractions. Hotel u t n e ut u r ert er facilities include a health spa and fitness r u t r un n ut r ree centre, dance studio, tennis court and pool. e t r u ut Le Sen Botique te Hotel u n - Luang r n Prabang All rooms feature a host of modern amenities. Phnosavanh Vansana Plain of Jars Hotel The hotel offers 38 guest rooms and is set beautifully perched on a hill. All rooms have private balconies for guests to look over the natural beauty of the area. The hotel also has a main restaurant and bar. Vang Vieng Lotus Blanc Resort & Spa - Siem Reap Vansana Plain of Jars Hotel - Phnosavanh Silver Naga Hotel A premier 4 star boutique resort located in the heart of Vang Vieng. The hotel has a Lobby Lounge, full service spa, business centre, restaurant, bar and 101 guest rooms which feature classic Laos décor.
Himawari Hotel - Phnom Penh Silver Naga Hotel - Vang Vieng Myanmar n e er ureSedona n Hotel - Yangon n - Mandalay e rt n Yangon Mandalay e n Hotel er ure n e rt n en ent te r r n n e re er ure n e rt r t ntern t n ret n entre et t t e t n t er n r e n t r te n n r e e t e n n e t n ttr t n u t n t e r te ture t e e t e e n n n e n t e ut u t e n te - n n n n e e n e Novotel Inle Lake Myat Min Hotel e e r n u te re r The 4-star hotel has spacious and u e n tu r e e t r te contemporary guest rooms set on the lake’s er n u n ur e e e n shore. The hotel featured an inviting infinity n nte r r e r t e e ut t t pool with swim-up bar and stunning lake r n u te t u t views. It also has a sauna, Jacuzzi and day spa. en t e
Novotel Inle Lake Myat Min Hotel - Inle Lake
See your Travel Agent or Call 1300 788 328 - helenwongstours.com 7 Indochina Your ultimate destination
. Mandalay . . Heho MYANMAR
. Inle Lake . Bagan ✮ Nay Pyi Taw .
Yangon .
8 Vietnam Indochina your ultimate destination
ietnam is renowned for its colourful culture, fascinating traditions and breathtaking scenery. A country which remains unspoiled, tolerant and amazingly interesting. From the thriving river communities of the great Mekong River and its delta to V such fascinating destinations as Hoi An, Hue, Sapa and beautiful Halong Bay, you will experience a country that was built on imperial influences, traditional values and European colonisation. Hanoi Halong Bay Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) The capital that is pulsing with life, this city With thousands of exquisite limestone islands Ho Chi Minh City, or Saigon, once known as is a modern kaleidoscope of restaurants, rising from the emerald waters, this bay was the “Paris of the East”, ranks among Asia’s markets, boutiques and cafes that blends made a UNESCO World Heritage listed site. great megacities, with towering skyscrapers, perfectly with a history and culture that has Halong Bay is best enjoyed by a leisurely densely packed street markets, chic new clubs spanned hundreds of years. A charming overnight excursion on a boat with stops to and sidewalk vendors all jostled together. atmospheric city, with tree lined boulevards, explore the area’s many cliffs and caves. lakes and parks. Mekong Delta Sapa & Northern This huge river delta is home to a bustling Highlands rural culture of floating markets with boats carrying fresh produce, flowers, plants up and The Northern Highlands of Vietnam are a wild down the many river branches and canals. and inaccessible region bordered to the north The region is formed by intricate tributaries . Lao Cai by China and west by Laos. The countryside of the mighty Mekong River and is filled with . Sapa is spectacular with deep valleys and high rice paddy fields, mangroves and is rich in mountains. culture as it is a mix of Chinese, ethnic Khmer and Vietnamese. ✮. Hanoi Ninh Binh – ‘Dry Halong Bay’ Dry Halong Bay, or Tam Coc, boasts dramatic Danang . Mai Chau Halong Bay scenery, with huge limestone formations rising The third largest city of Vietnam, Danang is Ninh Binh . out of the rice paddies. The literal translation the gateway to Central Vietnam. Visit sites of Tam Coc is ‘three caves’ which can be as varied as the Cham Museum- the world’s . Luang Prabang explored by rowboat on the Ngo Dong River. finest collection of Cham sculpture; the shores Phonsavanh . of China Beach and the Marble Mountains, . Vang Vieng Hoa Binh & Mai Chau each representing one of the five elements ✮ Located at the base of a mountain, this is . Vientiane an excellent base for exploring the nearby Hoi An hill tribes including the H’mong and Tai. An This enchanting “living museum” ancient unspoiled example of a montagnard village, town is a UNESCO World heritage listed site Mai Chau remains very rural, with ethnic and invites exploration on foot or by cyclo. White Tai living in traditional stilt houses. . . Dong Hoi Its shop-houses, pagodas and family chapels LAOS Hue . date back to the 16th and 17th century, when . it was a major port for Western, Chinese and Danang Japanese traders. It has since blossomed into Hoi An . an artists’ colony, with colourful shop-houses and wide variety of handicrafts on display. Hue . VIETNAM . Siem Reap This ancient capital city was the cultural and intellectual centre of Vietnam. The ruins of the Old Imperial City is a UNESCO World Heritage listed site. Cruise on the Perfume River to the . Battambang . . elegant Thien Mu Pagoda and the royal Tomb CAMBODIA. Nha Trang LAOS of Emperor Tu Duc- a meandering series of Dalat . pavilions and courtyards in a tranquil setting ✮. Phnom Penh of forested hills and lakes. Phan Tiet . Nha Trang . Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City) Chau Doc . One of Vietnam’s most beautiful beachside My To . resorts, it features miles and miles of empty Capital City beaches, deserted bays, numerous islands . ✮ Cai Be . Mekong Delta and stunning coral reefs. Swim, snorkel Can To . Province Country and dive the days away. Sit back, relax and unwind in this paradise and enjoy scrumptious seafood meals.
See your Travel Agent or Call 1300 788 328 - helenwongstours.com 9 Cambodia
xplore a kingdom famous for being home to the magical spiritual site of Angkor Wat. Apart from being rich in ancient history, Cambodia boasts remnants of an intriguing colonial past along with contemporary elements – and much more. EAfter surviving decades of political instability and ultimate poverty, the people are among the world’s friendliest and are most welcoming.
a.
Siem Reap Sihanoukville As the official gateway to Angkor Wat and the Located on the Gulf of Thailand – large cluster of temples which took 17,000 Sihanoukville is 22kms from Phnom Penh, workers 30 years to construct, Siem Reap also known as Kampong Som – is perhaps has become a bustling provincial centre. Cambodia’s most popular seaside resort and A few kilometres north of Siem Reap is the major coastal port of the region, offers Angkor Wat, a complex which graces several sandy unspoilt beaches, laid back atmosphere, square kilometres of ancient temples. The excellent seafood and range of recreational name means “city or capital”, “wat” meaning activities. “temple”. The main temple of Angkor is one of numerous within the area, but it is the largest Kimpong Kleang and most popular of these architectural wonders. Its beauty and state of preservation Around 50km from Siem Reap, Kompong is unrivalled and its artistic distinctiveness Kleang is found on the northern shore of ensures it stands out as the unofficial seventh the vast “inland sea”, Tonle Sap Lake as wonder of the ancient world. the largest permanent village on the lake. Each year, the fishing community undergoes Phnom Penh dramatic and continual changes due to the seasonal flooding caused by the reverse flow Ideally positioned on the confluence of the of the Tonle Sap River b. Mekong, Bassac and Tonle Sap rivers, the Cambodian capital is considered one of the liveliest French-built colonial cities of Indochina. The centre was founded as a small monastery in 1372 by a rich Khmer woman named Penh who found four Buddha statues in a tree trunk on the banks of the Mekong. Wat Phnom marks the legendary founding place of Phnom Penh.
a. Angkor Thom South Gate, Siem Reap b. Royal Palace, Phnom Penh
10 Indochina Laos
xplore the mountains, plateaux and the meandering Mekong River, which forms a natural border with Thailand and Myanmar (Burma). The narrow-shaped country is renowned for its wealth in history and natural wonders. Stunning ancient Etemples, historic remains, landscapes dotted with jagged limestone formations and elephant rides through beautiful tranquil forests.
a.
Luang Prabang Vang Vieng An enchanting and relaxed town, Luang Situated on the bend of the Nam Song River Prabang is rich in natural beauty, culture with dramatic limestone peaks as a backdrop, and history. This ancient capital of Laos this is a particularly fascinating corner of offers a virtual kaleidoscope of minority hill Laos. The banks of the river are dotted with tribes, temples and colonial architecture tunnels and overhanging cliffs. The sleeping with breathtaking scenery. Nestled at the town’s main has transformed in recent years confluence of the mighty Mekong and Nam and is well worthy on any family’s holiday Khan rivers with forest covered mountains itinerary. From trekking, kayaking and cycling forming its’ backdrop, the city is a UNESCO to relaxing beside the Nam Song river. World Heritage-listed because of the well- preserved remains from the Lane Xang Vientiane Kingdom. The capital of Laos is a charming riverside city with plenty of life and character - without the swift pace atmosphere of most other major Asian cities. Vientiane is known for being laidback, quaint, uncrowded, with a delightful haven of beautiful temples, intricate pagodas b. and impressive shrines. From the stunning golden stupa to the vibrant Night Market, quirky riverside markets sit next to interesting cultural sites and colonial French architecture. There is a wealth of things to do and see in this picturesque Mekong riverside spot.
a. Morning Aims b. Wat Sensoi Kharam, Luang Prabang
See your Travel Agent or Call 1300 788 328 - helenwongstours.com 11 Myanmar
repare to see a country rich in culture and tradition as well as having a contrasting range of people and differing scenery. As the largest country in mainland South-East Asia Myanmar stretches to China in the north, Laos and Thailand in the east Pand southeast, the Andaman Sea and the Bay of Bengal in the south, and Bangladesh and India to the west.
a.
Yangon Bagan A former capital of Burma before the military One of the most magical religious centres in government in 2015 officially relocated the South-East Asia, Bagan and its surrounding capital to Naypyidaw, about 320kms to the plains near the Irrawaddy River are a major north of Yangon. As the country’s largest city drawcard on a Myanmar journey. It is an with a population of more than four million, ancient city located in the Mandalay region of Yangon is a bustling city with a colourful Burma. From the 9th to 13th centuries, the city mixed background. The city’s colonial past was the capital of the Kingdom of Pagan, the and spacious parks and lakes blend in well first kingdom to unify the regions that would with contemporary architectural additions and later constitute modern Myanmar. During the historic traditional timber homes. kingdom’s height, between the 11th and 13th centuries, over 10,000 Buddhist temples and Mandalay pagodas were built making for a spectacular image, especially at sunrise and sunset. The second largest city and the last royal capital of old Burma, Mandalay is a treasure trove more than 700kms north of Yangon, on the east bank of the Irrawaddy River. Its population of around one million makes it a thriving centre. Throughout the colonial years, Mandalay was the centre of Burmese culture and Buddhist learning, and as the last royal capital, was regarded by the Burmese as a primary symbol of sovereignty and identity.
b.
a. Shwedagon Pagoda, Yangon b. Plains of Bagan
12 Indochina & Responsibilities Responsibilities Cultural Respect It is important that you understand the local culture, tradition and courtesies of each destination you visit. To prepare for an enriching travel experience, our guides will provide a booklet on arrival that offers guidelines on local customs, environmental sensitivities, religious beliefs and the cultural influences within the local communities. Treading Lightly To help maintain the timeless beauty and natural environment of the region, we aim to tread lightly and insist that our tour coaches turn off idling engines and use eco-friendly transportation whenever possible. Local Charities Working alongside local charities has allowed us to offer support and assistance to the local communities and economy. We will continue to encourage our clients to shop at charity-run stores and to dine at vocational institutions that are committed to training young people or the disadvantaged to find purpose and stability through employment. Supporting The Needs We are proud to support and promote the below listed organisations through our program:
Hanoi – KOTO Phnom Penh – Halong Bay (Know one, Teach one) Romdeng Restaurant Work with ‘Pelican Cruise’ to support A non-profit restaurant and A haven for street children who are the children in local fishing villages vocational training program which taught the principles of hospitality in an through direct donations, equipment is focused on changing the lives of effort to gain worthwhile employment supplies, learning materials and disadvantaged youth and increase their desire to become school uniforms. valuable members of the local community.
See your Travel Agent or Call 1300 788 328 - helenwongstours.com 13 11 Glimpse Days of Vietnam Visit : Saigon / Can Tho / Hoi An / Hanoi / Halong Bay
njoy the essential ingredients of Vietnam – Vibrancy, beauty and Eauthenticity. From the depths of the infamous Cu Chi Tunnels to the hustle and bustle and bright lights of Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon), this journey offers a glimpse of what to expect and experience in Vietnam, including a cruise of breathtaking Halong Bay and visits of fascinating Hoi An and capital Hanoi.
WATER PUPPET THEATRE - Hanoi’s Water Puppet dates back to the 11th Century, a tradition which stems from a time when rice paddy fields were flooded and villagers would entertain each other with puppets performing over the waste deep water. Using large rods to support the puppets it appeared as if they were moving across the water with the puppeteers hidden behind a screen.
Hanoi 3 1
MYANMAR Halong Bay
he Mekong Delta is the largest Trice growing region and produces almost two-third of the rice in Vietnam. It also has the largest number of fruits and orchid yards in LAOS the country and majority of houses are built on stilts along the canals and rivers. River boats are primary Hoi An 2 means of transportation and almost every household has one boat.
CAMBODIA. VIETNAM
Saigon 3 1 Can To (Mekong)
14 Glimpse of Vietnam
a. b.
Day 1 Fri Arrive Saigon Day 6 Wed Hoi An GLIMPSE OF VIETNAM Code: GOV On arrival, u e tr n erre to the Grand Described as ‘living museum’ with narrow Hotel for two nights. winding streets and rows of carefully-preserved DEPARTURES TWIN SGL PER PERSON SHARE SUPP ancient houses, Hoi An has unique charm and Day 2 Sat Saigon atmosphere. Enjoy a cyclo tour, visit the Japanese Today you will travel to Cu Chi Tunnels. Covered Bridge, a Chinese communal house and Apr - Sep $3,100 $800 Constructed by Viet Cong fighters during the the colourful markets. Take a boat ride on the Thu Oct - Mar'20 $3,200 $ 20 Vietnam War, these tunnels ran directly under Bon River and visit Thanh Ha where skilled locals military bases and were used both as shelters and produce beautiful pottery. (B/L) to stage surprise attacks. This afternoon, visit to the Reunification Palace, History Museum, the Day 7 Thu Hoi An / Hanoi WHAT’S INCLUDED Notre Dame Cathedral, the Central Post Office, This morning transfer to the airport in Danang Opera-House, City Hall, Dong Khoi Street and Ben for your flight to Hanoi and stay one night at the • Vietnam domestic economy class air travel Thanh Market. This evening enjoy a relaxing Ann Hotel. Lunch will be at KOTO Restaurant. • 9 nights 4 star hotel accommodation dinner cruise. (B/L/D) This afternoon visit the History Museum and the • 1 night on board the ‘Pelican Cruise’ junk Temple of Literature which was the first university Day 3 Sun Saigon / Can Tho cruise in Vietnam. Enjoy an evening at the Water Puppet • 10 buffet breakfasts, 8 lunches & 5 dinners Spend a day exploring the colourful floating Show. (B/L) markets and lush back waterways of the Mekong • 1 evening cultural show with transfers Delta. Journey to Cai Be and Vinh Long, walk to Day 8 Fri Hanoi / Halong Bay • eturn tr n er ightseeing & entrance fees the villages and visit to some local home factories. Travel to Halong Bay via the rich farmlands and • Vietnam visa for Australian passport holders Discover the stunning landscapes as you sail villages to join your overnight cruise on board the • Travel kit and backpack along the river and observe the typical Mekong ‘Pelican Cruise’ junk. Observe the natural beauty Delta rural life. Continue to Can Tho and stay one of the unique grottoes that rise towards the sky as night at the Victoria Can Tho Hotel. (B/L/D) you leisurely sail the emerald green waters of the bay. (B/L/D) Day 4 Mon Can Tho / Saigon Early this morning, take a boat ride to the bustling Day 9 Sat Halong Bay / Hanoi floating markets of Cai Rang where countless Watch the sunrise over the bay before your return boats, loaded with local produce, are moored to the pier and transfer back to Hanoi. Stay two alongside the riverbank ready for trading. Sail nights at The Ann Hotel. (B) through the markets and watch the locals haggle and trade their wares to interested buyers. A stop Day 10 Sun Hanoi will be made at the vibrant tropical fruit gardens Today visit Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum, his wooden before returning to Saigon and stay one night at cottage and the One Pillar Pagoda. Enjoy a the Grand Hotel. (B/L) walking tour through the bustling Old quarter and continue to Hao Lo Prison, formerly known as the Day 5 Tue Saigon / Hoi An ‘Hanoi Hilton’ during the Vietnam War. Stop will Transfer to the airport for your flight to Danang. be made at the Buddhist Tran Quoc Pagoda, Quan On arrival, travel to the charming town of Hoi An. Thanh Temple and the Museum of Ethnology. This Along the way, stop at Non Nuoc Beach, Marble evening enjoy dinner at the Ly Club. (B/L/D) Mountain and visit the Cham Museum, Stay two nights at the Hoi An Historic Hotel. (B/L/D) Day 11 Mon D anoi Farewell Vietnam as you tr n er t t e r rt r ur n r t. (B)
a. Halong Bay b. Cu Chi Tunnels, Saigon
See your Travel Agent or Call 1300 788 328 - helenwongstours.com 15 11 Culinary Days Delights Visit : Hanoi / Halong Bay / Hoi An / Hue / Saigon / Mekong
rom simple home cooking to fine dining restaurants, this is a Fculinary adventure not to be missed. To whet the appetite, you will visit a wet market in Hanoi to learn how fresh produce is used in everyday cooking. While in Hoi An, prepare to sample a traditional fusion cuisine before heading to the ancient capital of Hue and yet another culinary delight of local food a.
VIETNAMESE FOOD - With a mixture of Chinese, French and little Thai, the basic ingredient of Vietnamese cuisine is rice and famous fish sauce, nouc mam. One of the Specialities of Vietnamese cuisine is spring rolls, with ingredients and size varying depending on the region. The traditional breakfast, chicken soup (pho ga) or beef soup (Pho Bo) is available at most of the main streets of nearly every city in Vietnam
Hanoi 2 1
MYANMAR Halong Bay
he street food scene in Vietnam Tis found in every district, neighbourhood and alleyway. Every day, thousands of street-side eateries offer up delicious, cheap food in LAOS an informal environment on the Hue 2 city’s sidewalks. But street food is about more than food - it’s about 2 Hoi An atmosphere and ambience
CAMBODIA. VIETNAM
Saigon 3
Cai Be (Mekong)
16 Gulinary DelightsGulinary
b. c. d.
Day 1 Tue Arrive Hanoi Day 6 Sun Hoi An / Hue Day 11 Fri D aigon On arrival, tr n er t t e nn te r t n t Set off this morning on a walking tour to the Farewell Vietnam as you re tr n erre t colourful ‘wet market’ in search of the freshest t e r rt r ur n r t. ingredients most common in Vietnamese cooking. Day 2 Wed Hanoi Join a fun class where you will not only learn Your culinary journey begins with a visit to step-by-step cooking techniques but also herbal the local ‘wet market’ to learn about the fresh remedies and the tricks of vegetable carving. Your Vietnamese produce that is used in everyday efforts will be rewarded with a delicious lunch cooking. Continue to the home of a ‘true Hanoian’ cooked - by yourself. This afternoon, travel to Hue CULINARY DELIGHTS Code: CD who learned her culinary skills from her and stop at the fishing village of Lang Co. Stay two DEPARTURE TWIN SGL grandmother, a former chef who once served the nights at the Alba Spa Hotel. (B/L) PER PERSON SHARE SUPP French elite in the 1930s. See how to prepare and Day 7 Mon Hue cook authentic northern Vietnamese cuisine Apr - Sep $3, 00 $720 before sitting down to enjoy a delightful meal. In Start the day with a visit to the vibrant Dong Ba the afternoon, visit Ba Dinh Square to view Ho Chi Market to see its abundance of fresh produce. Oct - Mar'20 $3,2 0 $ 0 Minh’s Mausoleum, his wooden cottage and the Then join a cyclo tour through the ‘Old City’ to Tinh Tam Lake. Travel to the Imperial Citadel, built One Pillar Pagoda, the Buddhist Tran Quoc Pagoda WHAT’S INCLUDED and Quan Thanh Temple. This evening, venture the in the early 19th Century and modelled on the street food at local market and try some of the Forbidden City in Beijing, and visit the Tomb of local food. (B/L/D) Emperor Khai Dinh – the last monument of the • Vietnam domestic economy class air travel Nguyen dynasty. Tonight dinner at Y Thao Garden • 9 nights 4 star hotel accommodation Day 3 Thu Hanoi / Halong Bay House, the restaurant set in lovely gardens with typical amazing local food. (B/D) • 1 night on board the ‘Pelican Cruise’ junk Travel to Halong Bay. Board your “Pelican Cruise” cruise cruise and relax and unwind as you sail the emerald green waters of the bay. After lunch, take Day 8 Tue Hue / Saigon • 10 buffet breakfasts, 6 lunches & 5 dinners a short trek to a nearby summit for a panoramic In the morning, transfer to the airport for your • eturn tr n er ightseeing & entrance fees flight to Saigon and a three-night stay at the Grand view of the bay, then enjoy a swim or sunbathing. • Vietnam visa for Australian passport holders Also visit a fishing village and meet the fishing Hotel. Your afternoon tour will include Cholon families who have lived in the bay for generations. (Chinatown), the traditional Medicine Museum, • Travel kit and backpack (B/L/D) the Reunification Palace, History Museum, Opera House, City Hall, the Central Post Office, Dong Khoi Day 4 Fri Halong Bay / Hoi An Street and Ben Thanh Market. (B) Join early morning Tai Chi on board, take a short tour to the beautiful limestone grotto before Day 9 Wed Saigon returning to the pier and the transfer to the airport In the morning, visit a local home where your in Hanoi. Fly to Danang where you will travel to host will take you to a local suburban market to the charming ancient town of Hoi An. Dine tonight select ingredients to make a selection of favourite at one of Hoi An’s best restaurants, famous for its Vietnamese meals. Your host will teach you the original and creative cuisine that has been secrets and techniques of preparing the dishes described as Vietnam-Latin-American-Japanese which you will enjoy as your lunch today. fusion. (B/D) Return to the hotel where the rest of the day is at leisure. (B/L) Day 5 Sat Hoi An In the morning, visit a local farming family, take a Day 10 Thu Mekong Excursion trip around the vegetable garden and join the Take a two-hour drive to the delta town of Cai Be, farmers in preparing the land such as; fertilising, where colourful floating markets, emerald rice raking, sowing & picking greens. You will also fields and lush waterways are the highlights of this be shown how to prepare the tam huu, a local region. Board a local boat to explore the floating delicacy you can enjoy at a light local style lunch markets and stop at the cottage factory where before the ride back to Hoi An. An afternoon ‘pop-rice’, rice paper and coconut candies are walking tour of the ancient town will take you to made. Continue by boat to Dong Hoa Hiep Island the unique Japanese covered bridge, a Chinese and observe the daily lifestyle of the rural people. communal house and the colourful market. (B/L) This evening, enjoy a farewell dinner at Hoa Tuc Restaurant where refined Vietnamese food is served. (B/L/D) a. Vietnamese Cuisine b. Meal at Mekong Delta c. Incense burning at temple d. Making of Vietnamese Conical Hat
See your Travel Agent or Call 1300 788 328 - helenwongstours.com 17 13 Halong to Days Mekong Visit : Hanoi / Halong Bay / Ninh Binh / Mai Chau / Hoi An Saigon / Can Tho
xplore breathtaking Halong Bay and the thriving river Ecommunities of the Mekong River. From the bustling waterways of the Mekong Delta to the deeper waters of Halong Bay with its spectacular array of limestone islands and caves, this journey combines the very best of Vietnam, including “Dry Halong Bay”. a.
HALONG BAY - If ever a bay deserved the blessing of UNESCO with World Heritage Site status and protection, it’s Halong Bay. This breathtakingly beautiful bay spans 1553 square kilometres with around 2000 islands and islets piercing its waters, formed as far back 500 million years.
Hanoi
Mai Chau 3 1 1
1 Halong Bay MYANMAR Ninh Binh
oa Lo Prison infamously coined Hthe Hanoi Hilton, Hao Lo Prison was originally used by the French colonists to imprison political prisoners. However, during the LAOS Vietnam conflict in the 1960s and 1970s it was used by the North Vietnamese to gaol USA prisoners Hoi An 2 of war. The prison was demolished during the 1990s, though the gatehouse remains a museum.
CAMBODIA. VIETNAM
Saigon 3 1 Can To (Mekong)
18 Halong to Mekong
b. c.
Day 1 Fri Arrive Hanoi Day 8 Fri Hoi An HALONG TO MEKONG Code: HTM On arrival u e tr n erre to The Ann Described as a ‘living museum’ with narrow DEPARTERS TWIN SGL Hotel for two nights. winding streets and rows of carefully-preserved PER PERSON SHARE SUPP ancient houses, Hoi An has unique charm and Day 2 Sat Hanoi atmosphere. Enjoy a cyclo tour, visit the Japanese Visit Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum, his wooden covered bridge, a Chinese communal house, Apr - Sep $3,650 $880 cottage and the One Pillar Pagoda. Enjoy a take a boat ride on the Thu Bon River and visit Oct - Mar'20 $3, 0 $ 020 walking tour through the bustling Old Quarter and Thanh Ha where skilled locals produce beautiful continue to Hao Lo Prison, formerly known as the pottery. (B/L/D) ‘Hanoi Hilton’, the Buddhist Tran Quoc Pagoda, WHAT’S INCLUDED Quan Thanh Temple and the Museum of Day 9 Sat Hoi An / Saigon Ethnology. This evening enjoy the Water Puppet Transfer back to Danang and fly to Saigon. Stay • Vietnam domestic economy class air travel show. (B/L) one night at the Grand Hotel. (B/L) • 11 nights 4 star hotel accommodation Day 3 Sun Hanoi / Halong Bay Day 10 Sun Saion / Can Tho (Mekong) • 1 night on board the ‘Pelican Cruise’ Travel to Halong Bay via the rich farmlands and Spend a day exploring the colourful floating junk cruise villages to join your overnight cruise on board the markets, emerald rice fields and lush back • 12 buffet breakfasts, 10 lunches & 7 dinners “Pelican Cruise” junk. Observe the natural beauty waterways of the Mekong Delta. Journey to Cai • 2 evening cultural show with transfers of the unique grottoes that rise towards the sky as Be and Vinh Long and cruise through the many you leisurely sail the emerald green waters of the tributaries of the Mekong. Walk to the villages • eturn tr n er ightseeing & entrance fees bay. (B/L/D) and wander amongst vibrant tropical fruit gardens. • Vietnam visa for Australian passport holders Continue to Can Tho and stay one night at the • Travel kit and backpack Day 4 Mon Halong Bay / Ninh Binh Victoria Can Tho Hotel. (B/L/D) Watch the sun rise over the bay before you return to the pier and transfer to Ninh Binh, considered Day 11 Mon Can Tho / Saigon one of the most beautiful regions of Vietnam and Early this morning visit the bustling nicknamed ‘Dry Halong Bay’. Enjoy an afternoon floating markets of Cai Rang where countless cruise through the Thung Nang Valley and pass boats, loaded with local produce are moored through spectacular caves to reach a quaint alongside the riverbank ready for trading. Sail pagoda before stopping at the local markets. Stay through the markets and watch the locals haggle one night at Ninh Binh Legend Hotel. (B/D) and trade their wares to interested buyers. Explore the rural city of Can Tho, passing the local market Day 5 Tue Ninh Binh / Mai Chau and Khmer Pagoda. Return to Saigon and stay two Take a scenic drive to Mai Chau and stay one nights at the Grand Hotel. (B/L) night at the Mai Chau Lodge. Pass by fields of tapioca, sugar cane and rice paddies and see Day 12 Tue Saigon villagers in the fields logging or herding buffalo. Travel to the Cu Chi Tunnel. Constructed by Viet Visit Mo Luong Cave after a lunch in a traditional Cong fighters during the Vietnam War, these stilt house of the Thai people. This evening enjoy tunnels ran directly under military bases and a traditional Thai performance of music and were used both as shelters and to stage surprise dance. (B/L/D) attacks. Continue to the Reunification Palace, History Museum, the Notre Dame Cathedral, the Day 6 Wed Mai Chau / Hanoi Central Post Office, Dong Khoi Street and Ben Return to Hanoi for one night and enjoy lunch Thanh Market. This evening, enjoy a relaxing at KOTO Restaurant, an ongoing project to help dinner cruise. (B/L/D) street children gain work and independence in the hospitality industry. This afternoon, visit the Temple Day 13 Wed D aigon of Literature and the History Museum. This evening Farewell Vietnam u tr n er t t e r rt r enjoy dinner at the Ly Club. (B/L/D) ur n r t. (B) Day 7 Thu Hanoi / Hoi An Transfer to the airport for your flight to Danang. On arrival, travel to the charming ancient town of Hoi An. Along the way stop at Non Nuoc Beach and Cham Mountain. Stay two nights at the Hoi An Historic Hotel. (B/L) a. Trinh Nu Cave, Halong Bay b. Notre-Dame Cathedral, Saigon c. Floating Market, Mekong River
See your Travel Agent or Call 1300 788 328 - helenwongstours.com 19 15 ReflectionDays of Vietnam Visit : Saigon / Can Tho / Hoi An / Hue / Hanoi / Halong Bay
ourney through the trails from yesteryear and explore all the Jhighlights of today. This is a true reflection of everyday life in Vietnam, from the ancient traditions and contemporary features of Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) and the charming qualities of an imperial capital from bygone years, Hue.
a.
CU CHI TUNNELS - Dug and used by the Viet Cong during the Vietnam War, this immense network of connecting underground tunnels near Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) are part of a much larger network across much of the country. You can only imagine how life would have been hidden in these particularly narrow tunnels during times of war.
Hanoi 3 1
MYANMAR Halong Bay
o best appreciate local markets, Tvisit during the mornings at their busiest time, the earlier the better as the produce is at its freshest and most colourful. Nothing can beat LAOS the morning rush and the glory of Hue 3 fresh produce at the beginning of a new day. Hoi An 2
CAMBODIA. VIETNAM
Saigon 4 1 Can To (Mekong)
20 ection off ection Re Vietnam
b. c.
Day 1 Fri Arrive Saigon Day 8 Fri Hoi An / Hue Day 15 Fri D anoi n rr u e tr n erre t the Grand Travel via Marble Mountain to Danang. Continue re e etn u tr n er t t e r rt Hotel for two nights. to Hue and stay three nights at the Alba Spa Hotel. r ur n r t This afternoon visit the Imperial Citadel, built in Day 2 Sat Saigon the 19th century and modelled on the Forbidden Travel to the Cu Chi Tunnels, constructed by Viet City in Beijing. A stop will be made at Duong No Cong fighters during the Vietnam War. Continue to village to see how traditional Vietnamese hats the Reunification Palace, History Museum, the are made. (B/L) REFLECTION OF Code: ROV Notre Dame Cathedral, the Central Post Office, Day 9 Sat Hue Dong Khoi Street and Ben Thanh Market. This VIETNAM evening enjoy a relaxing dinner cruise. (B/L/D) Visit the Imperial Tomb of Emperor Khai Dinh and Tu Duc. Take a boat ride along the Perfume DEPARTURES TWIN SGL Day 3 Sun Saigon / Can Tho River and see the Thien Mu Pagoda which is PER PERSON SHARE SUPP Spend a day exploring the colourful floating regarded as the most beautiful of Hue’s pagodas. markets and lush back waterways of the Mekong Stop at Dong Ba Market before returning to your Apr - Sep $3,9 0 $1,0 0 Delta. Journey to Cai Be and Vinh Long. Walk to hotel. (B/L/D) Oct - Mar'20 $ , 0 $1, 0 the villages and wander amongst vibrant tropical Day 10 Sun Demilitarized Zone fruit gardens. Continue to Can Tho and stay one night at the Victoria Can Tho Hotel. (B/L/D) Early morning departure for a full day excursion WHAT’S INCLUDED north and stop at La Vang Cathedral and Quang Day 4 Mon Can Tho / Saigon Tri Citadel where a fierce battle raged for 81 days in 1972. Visit the demilitarized zone, Hien Luong • Vietnam domestic economy class air travel Early this morning visit the bustling floating • 13 nights 4 star hotel accommodation markets of Cai Rang where countless boats, Bridge over the Ben Hai River which demarcated loaded with local produce are moored alongside North and South Vietnam and saw some of the • 1 night on board the ‘Pelican Cruise’ the riverbank ready for trading. Sail through the heaviest fighting during the war. Continue to Vinh junk cruise markets and watch the locals haggle and trade Moc Tunnels which were built as a refuge by the • 14 buffet breakfasts, 12 lunches & 6 dinners their wares to interested buyers. Explore the rural villagers. Drive onto Truong Son National Cemetery where remains of some 15,000 Vietnamese • 1 evening cultural show with transfers city of Can Tho, passing the local market and • eturn tr n er ightseeing & entrance fees Khmer Pagoda. Return to Saigon and stay two soldiers and civilians have been laid to rest. nights at the Grand Hotel. (B/L) Continue south west to Khe Sanh where one of the • Vietnam visa for Australian passport holders most important battles of the Vietnam War took • Travel kit and backpack Day 5 Tue Vung Tau Excursion place. Return to Hue for overnight. (B/L) Travel to Vung Tau and explore the war sites Day 11 Mon Hue / Hanoi which were significant to the Australian experience Transfer to the airport for the flight to Hanoi and of the Vietnam War. Visit Nui Dat, the Australian stay one night at The Ann Hotel. Enjoy lunch at War Memorial, Long Phuc Tunnels, Long Tan, KOTO Restaurant. This afternoon visit the Temple Long Hai hills and tunnels. Return to Saigon early of Literature. (B/L) evening. (B/L) Day 12 Tue Hanoi / Halong Bay Day 6 Wed Saigon / Hoi An Travel to Halong Bay to join your overnight cruise Transfer to the airport for your flight to Danang. On on board the “Pelican Cruise” junk. Observe the arrival, travel to the charming ancient town of Hoi natural beauty of the unique grottoes that rise An. Along the way stop at Non Nuoc Beach and towards the sky as you leisurely sail the emerald Cham Mountain. Stay two nights at the Hoi An green waters of the bay. (B/L/D) Historic Hotel. (B/L/D) Day 13 Wed Halong Bay / Hanoi Day 7 Thu Hoi An Watch the sun rise over the bay before you return Described as a ‘living museum’ with narrow to the pier and transfer back to Hanoi. Stay two winding streets and rows of carefully-preserved nights at The Ann Hotel. This evening enjoy the ancient houses, Hoi An has unique charm and Water Puppet show. (B) atmosphere. Enjoy a cyclo tour, visit the Japanese covered bridge, a Chinese communal house, take a Day 14 Thu Hanoi boat ride on the Thu Bon River and visit Thanh Ha Today visit Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum, his wooden where skilled locals produce beautiful pottery. (B/L) cottage and One Pillar Pagoda. Continue to Hao Lo Prison, formerly known as the ‘Hanoi Hilton’ during the Vietnam War. Visit the History Museum, Quan Thanh Temple and the Museum of Ethnology. This evening enjoy dinner at the Ly Club. (B/L/D) a. Ho Chi Minh City Hall b. Halong Bay c. Imperial Citadel, Hue
See your Travel Agent or Call 1300 788 328 - helenwongstours.com 21 16 Best of Days Vietnam Visit : Saigon / Can Tho / Hoi An / Hanoi / Halong Bay / Sapa
iscover Vietnam – It’s unique culture, lifestyle and the stunning Dmountain scenery of Sapa. From the deep waters and limestone karsts of Halong Bay to the fascinating villages and rural setting of the country’s north, this journey truly offers the best of Vietnam.
a.
MINORITIES IN SAPA - Exclude the ethnic Vietnamese people (Kinh), the region in and around Sapa boasts eight different minority groups, including H’mong and Dao. Many older women make items such as clothes and blankets to sell to visitors while striking up a conversation with the people can be very rewarding as their spoken English is impressive.
Rail Travel Sapa 2 1 Hanoi Rail 1 4 Travel 1
MYANMAR Halong Bay
ith hundreds of tailors in WHoi An, they offer specially fitted customised clothing made swiftly at affordable prices. There’s little wonder this UNESCO World LAOS Heritage listed town is a magnet for international shoppers. Hoi An is considered the tailoring capital Hoi An 2 of not only Vietnam but South-East Asia in general.
CAMBODIA. VIETNAM
Saigon 3 1 Can To (Mekong)
22 Best of VietnamBest
b.
Day 1 Fri Arrive Saigon Day 8 Fri Hanoi / Halong Bay n rr u e tr n erre t the Grand Travel to Halong Bay via the rich farmlands and Hotel for two nights. villages to join your overnight cruise on board the ‘Pelican Cruise’ junk. Observe the natural beauty Day 2 Sat Saigon of the unique grottoes that rise towards the sky as Today you will travel to Cu Chi Tunnels. you leisurely sail the emerald green waters of the Constructed by Viet Cong fighters during the bay. (B/L/D) Vietnam War, these tunnels ran directly under military bases and were used both as shelters and Day 9 Sat Halong Bay / Hanoi to stage surprise attacks. This afternoon, visit to Watch the sunrise over the bay before your return BEST OF VIETNAM Code: BOV the Reunification Palace, History Museum, the to the pier and transfer back to Hanoi. Stay two Notre Dame Cathedral, the Central Post Office, nights at The Ann Hotel. (B) DEPARTURES TWIN SGL PER PERSON SHARE SUPP Opera-House, City Hall, Dong Khoi Street and Ben Thanh Market. This evening enjoy a relaxing Day 10 Sun Hanoi dinner cruise. (B/L/D) Today visit Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum, his wooden Apr - Sep $4, 0 $1,100 cottage and the One Pillar Pagoda. Enjoy a Oct - Mar'20 $4, 00 $1,200 Day 3 Sun Saigon / Can Tho walking tour through the bustling Old quarter and Spend a day exploring the colourful floating continue to Hao Lo Prison, formerly known as the markets and lush back waterways of the Mekong ‘Hanoi Hilton’ during the Vietnam War. Stop will WHAT’S INCLUDED Delta. Journey to Cai Be and Vinh Long, walk to be made at the Buddhist Tran Quoc Pagoda, Quan the villages and visit to some local home factories. Thanh Temple and the Museum of Ethnology. This • Vietnam domestic economy class air travel Discover the stunning landscapes as you sail evening enjoy dinner at the Ly Club. (B/L/D) • 12 nights 4 star hotel accommodation along the river and observe the typical Mekong Delta rural life. Continue to Can Tho and stay one Day 11 Mon Hanoi / Sapa • 1 night on board the ‘Pelican Cruise’ night at the Victoria Can Tho Hotel. (B/L/D) Morning at leisure. This afternoon visit the Temple junk cruise of Literature and the History Museum Early this • 15 buffet breakfasts, 12 lunches & 8 dinners Day 4 Mon Can Tho / Saigon evening you will be transferred to the railway station • 2 nights onboard “Fanxipan” train – 2 berth Early this morning, take a boat ride to the bustling to board the overnight train to Lao Cai. (B/L/D) • 1 evening cultural show with transfers floating markets of Cai Rang where countless Day 12 Tue Arrive Lao Cai / Sapa • eturn tr n er t ee n & entrance fees boats, loaded with local produce are moored • Vietnam visa for Australian passport holders alongside the riverbank ready for trading. Sail Arrive Lao Cai and transfer to Sapa where you will through the markets and watch the locals haggle stay two nights at the Victoria Sapa Hotel. Once • Travel kit and backpack and trade their wares to interested buyers. A stop an old French hill station during the colonial days, will be made at the vibrant tropical fruit gardens this lovely valley region is home to the Dao, Giay before returning to Saigon and stay one night at and Hmong minorities. After lunch, visit the Trung the Grand Hotel. (B/L) Do village and stop at a traditional Tay minority house for tea, follow by a cruise (replace by buffalo Day 5 Tue Saigon / Hoi An carriage ride Dec-Apr) along the Chay River and Transfer to the airport for your flight to Danang. enjoy the picturesque scenery and sights. (B/L/D) On arrival, travel to the charming town of Hoi An. Along the way, stop at Non Nuoc Beach, Marble Day 13 Wed Sapa Mountain and visit the Cham Museum, Stay two Today, explore the villages of Lao Cai and Ta Van nights at the Hoi An Historic Hotel. (B/L/D) where you will meet the local ethnic minority population still wear their distinctive traditional Day 6 Wed Hoi An clothing. Visit the Zay hill tribes and obtain a Described as ‘living museum; with narrow winding glimpse into their local way of lifestyle. (B/L/D) streets and rows of carefully-preserved ancient houses, Hoi An has unique charm and Day 14 Thu Sapa / Lao Cai / Hanoi atmosphere. Enjoy a cyclo tour, visit the Japanese Enjoy the stunning mountain scenery today as Covered Bridge, a Chinese communal house and you travel to the Lung Khau Nhin Market. Ethnic the colourful market. Take a boat ride on the Thu minorities come to buy and sell local products Bon River and visit Thanh Ha where skilled locals such as food and material for agriculture and produce beautiful pottery. (B/L) fabric. After exploring the market, you will travel to Cao Son – the most stunning part of Lao Cai Day 7 Thu Hoi An / Hanoi province where you will see the traditional lifestyle This morning transfer to the airport in Danang for of tribal minorities. Transfer to Lao Cai station for your flight to Hanoi and stay one night at The your overnight train to Hanoi. (B/L/D) Ann Hotel. Lunch will be at KOTO Restaurant. This afternoon visit the History Museum and the Day 15 Fri Arrive Hanoi Temple of Literature which was the first university Early morning arrival into Hanoi to transfer to The Ann in Vietnam. Enjoy an evening at the Water Puppet Hotel for one night. Remainder of the day is free. (B) Show. (B/L) Day 16 Sat D anoi re e etn u tr n er t t e r rt r ur n r t a. Rural Sapa b. Marble Carving
See your Travel Agent or Call 1300 788 328 - helenwongstours.com 23 19 VietnamDays Explorer Visit : Saigon / Can Tho / Nha Trang / Hoi an / Hue / Hanoi / Sapa Halong Bay
xplore Vietnam’s diversity – from canals to beaches heritage sites Eto colourful hill tribes. From the bustling floating markets to the emerald rice paddy fields, this journey is much to do with countryside as it is with the major cities, towns and beaches.
FLOATING MARKETS - Central to the fascinating Mekong Delta, the floating markets are a hive of activity as people converge on the area to buy fruit and vegetables from local growers. A visit to the markets is a major highlight with growers hanging available produce on long poles. Small sampans serve as mobile cafes, easily accessible to buy soft drinks and iced coffee or a strong noodle soup for breakfast.
Rail Travel Sapa 2 1 Hanoi Rail 1 4 Travel 1
MYANMAR Halong Bay
yclo rickshaw Always a fun way Cto go sightseeing down narrow streets and lanes, this small form of transport has been a part of South- East Asia life for many decades LAOS Hue 1
Hoi An 2
VIETNAM
CAMBODIA. Nha Trang 2
Saigon 3 1 Can To (Mekong)
24 Vietnam Explorer
a.
Day 1 Tue Arrive Saigon Day 10 Thu Hue / Hanoi n rr u e tr n erre t the Grand Morning visit to the Imperial Tomb of Emperor Hotel for two nights. TuDuc. Transfer to the airport for your flight to Hanoi and stay two nights at The Ann Hotel. Enjoy Day 2 Wed Saigon an evening at the Water Puppet Show. (B/L) Today you will travel to Cu Chi Tunnels. Constructed by Viet Cong fighters during the Day 11 Fri Hanoi / Halong Bay Vietnam War, these tunnels ran directly under Travel to Halong Bay via the rich farmlands and military bases and were used both as shelters and villages to join your overnight cruise on board the to stage surprise attacks. This afternoon, visit to ‘Pelican Cuise’ junk. Observe the natural beauty of the Reunification Palace, History Museum, the the unique grottoes that rise towards the sky as Notre Dame Cathedral, the Central Post Office, you leisurely sail the emerald green waters of the Opera-House, City Hall, Dong Khoi Street and Ben bay. (B/L/D) Thanh Market. This evening enjoy a relaxing b. dinner cruise. (B/L/D) Day 12 Sat Hanoi Bay / Hanoi Watch the sunrise over the bay before your return Day 3 Thu Saigon / Can Tho to the pier and transfer back to Hanoi. Stay two VIETNAM EXPLORER Code: VE Spend a day exploring the colourful floating nights at The Ann Hotel. (B) markets and lush back waterways of the Mekong DEPARTURES TWIN SGL Delta. Journey to Cai Be and Vinh Long, walk to Day 13 Sun Hanoi PER PERSON SHARE SUPP the villages and visit to some local home factories. Today visit Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum, his wooden Discover the stunning landscapes as you sail cottage and the One Pillar Pagoda. Enjoy a Apr - Sep $ ,0 0 $1, 0 along the river and observe the typical Mekong walking tour through the bustling Old quarter Oct - Mar'20 $ , 00 $1, 0 Delta rural life. Continue to Can Tho and stay one and continue to Hao Lo Prison, formerly known as night at the Victoria Can Tho Hotel. (B/L/D) the ‘Hanoi Hilton’ during the Vietnam War. Stop will be made at the Buddhist Tran Quoc Pagoda, WHAT’S INCLUDED Day 4 Fri Can Tho / Saigon QuanThanh Temple and the Museum of Ethnology. Early this morning, take a boat ride to the bustling This evening enjoy dinner at the Ly Club. (B/L/D) • Vietnam domestic economy class air travel floating markets of Cai Rang where countless • 15 nights 4 star hotel accommodation boats, loaded with local produce are moored Day 14 Mon Hanoi / Sapa alongside the riverbank ready for trading. Sail Morning at leisure. This afternoon visit the Temple • 1 night on board the ‘Pelican Cruise’ through the markets and watch the locals haggle of Literature and the History Museum Early this junk cruise and trade their wares to interested buyers. A stop evening you will be transferred to the railway • 2 nights onboard “Fanxipan” train – 2 berth will be made at the vibrant tropical fruit gardens station to board the overnight train to Lao Cai. • 18 buffet breakfasts, 14 lunches & 10 dinners before returning to Saigon and stay one night at (B/L/D) the Grand Hotel. (B/L) • 1 evening cultural show with transfers Day 15 Tue Arrive Lao Cai / Sapa • eturn tr n er ightseeing & entrance fees Day 5 Sat Saigon / Nha Trang Arrive Lao Cai and transfer to Sapa where you will Fly to the tropical seaside resort town of NhaTrang. stay two nights at the Victoria Sapa Hotel. Once • Vietnam visa for Australian passport holders Stay two nights at the Novotel Hotel. Afternoon an old French hill station during the colonial days, • Travel kit and backpack tour to the Po Nagar Cham Tower. (B/L/D) this lovely valley region is home to the Dao, Giay and Hmong minorities. After lunch, visit the Trung Day 6 Sun Nha Trang Do village and stop at a traditional Tay minority Day at leisure to freely enjoy the stunning sandy house for tea, follow by a cruise (replace by buffalo beaches, turquoise waters and breathtaking carriage ride Dec-Apr) along the Chay River and mountain views of NhaTrang. Then again you may enjoy the picturesque scenery and sights. (B/L/D) choose to venture to nearby islands or villages – or simply relax. (B) Day 16 Wed Sapa Today, explore the villages of Lao Chai and Ta Day 7 Mon Nha Trang / Hoi An Van where you will meet the local ethnic minority Fly to Danang where you will be transferred to Hoi population still wears their distinctive traditional An and stay two nights at the Hoi An Historic clothing. Visit the Zay hill tribes and obtain a Hotel. (B/L/D) glimpse into their local way of lifestyle. (B/L) Day 8 Tue Hoi An Day 17 Thu Sapa / Lao Cai / Hanoi Described as a ‘living museum’ with narrow Enjoy the stunning mountain scenery today as winding streets and rows of carefully-preserved you travel to the Lung Khau Nhin Market. Ethnic ancient houses, Hoi An has unique charm minorities come to buy and sell local products and atmosphere. Enjoy a cyclo tour, visit the such as food and material for agriculture and Japanese covered bridge, a Chinese communal fabric. After exploring the market, you will travel house, take a boat ride on the Thu Bon River to Cao Son – the most stunning part of Lao Cai and visit Thanh Ha where skilled locals produce province where you will see the traditional lifestyle beautiful pottery. (B/L) of tribal minorities. Transfer to Lao Cai station for your overnight train to Hanoi. (B/L/D) Day 9 Wed Hoi An / Hue Travel via Marble Mountain to Non Nuoc Beach Day 18 Fri Arrive Hanoi and the Cham Museum in Danang. Continue to Early morning arrival into Hanoi to transfer to The Hue and stay one night at the Alba Spa Hotel. This Ann Hotel for one night. Remainder of the day is afternoon, take a boat ride along the Perfume free. (B) River and see the magnificent architecture of Thien Mu Pagoda and visit Dong Ba Market. (B/L/D) Day 19 Sat D anoi re e etn u tr n er t t e r rt r ur n r t a. The Japanese Covered Bridge, Hoi An b. Traditional hair-do, Sapa
See your Travel Agent or Call 1300 788 328 - helenwongstours.com 25 14 Angkor & VietnamDays Discovery Visit : Siem Reap / Saigon / Can Tho / Hoi An / Hanoi / Halong Bay
iscover the ancient beauty of Angkor Wat, the lush Mekong, Dthe charm of Hoi An and mystical Halong Bay. Combine visits to some of Vietnam’s major sites with a tour of Cambodia’s major holiday drawcard and you have a journey worth treasuring.
ANGKOR WAT - Covering an area that spans more than 160 hectares, Angkor Wat is recognised as largest religious monument in the world. This inspirational temple complex is the envy of world archaeologists, originally constructed as a Hindu temple of god Vishnu for the Khmer Empire, transforming into a Buddhist temple toward the end of the 12th Century.
Hanoi 3 1
Halong Bay MYANMAR
our thousand years ago, FVietnamese people were building stilt houses similar to those in use today. Suited to flood-prone plains and to steep mountain slopes, these LAOS houses remain popular among many of Vietnam’s different ethnic groups. Hoi An 2
3 Siem Reap . CAMBODIA VIETNAM
Saigon 3 1 Can To (Mekong)
26 Angkor & Vietnam Discovery
a.
Day 1 Tue Arrive Siem Reap n rr u e tr n erre t the Lotus Blanc Resort & Spa for three nights. Day 2 Wed Siem Reap Early this morning visit the breathtaking Angkor Wat. Explore by tuktuk to Angkor Thom, the last capital of the Khmers and home of the Elephant Terrace. Continue to the Terrace of the Leper King, The Terrace of Elephants, Angkor Wat Temple and Bayon Temple. Witness the sun setting from Pre b. Rup, a pyramidal temple surrounded by rice fields. Tonight enjoy a traditional Khmer welcome dinner. (B/L/D) ANGKOR & VIETNAM Code: AVD DISCOVERY Day 3 Thu Siem Reap Day 8 Tue Saigon / Hoi An Today visit the temples of Preah Khan, Banteay DEPARTURES TWIN SGL Transfer to the airport for your flight to Danang. PER PERSON SHARE SUPP Samre and Banteay Srey, better known as the On arrival, travel to the charming town of Hoi An. ‘Citadel of the Women’. Continue to Banteay Kdej Along the way, stop at Non Nuoc Beach, Marble and Ta Prohm, known as the ‘Kingdom of Trees’ Mountain and visit the Cham Museum, Stay two Apr - Sep $4,150 $1,000 because of the giant fig and banyan trees that are nights at the Hoi An Historic Hotel. (B/L/D) slowly reclaiming the temple. Late this afternoon, Oct - Mar'20 $4, 0 $1, 0 take a traditional tuk tuk to the McDermott Gallery Day 9 Wed Hoi An and enjoy a welcome drink as you stroll through Described as ‘living museum; with narrow WHAT’S INCLUDED the gallery. Dinner tonight will be at the Foreign winding streets and rows of carefully-preserved Correspondents Club. (B/L/D) ancient houses, Hoi An has unique charm and •Cambodia to Vietnam economy class air travel Day 4 Fri Siem Reap / Saigon atmosphere. Enjoy a cyclo tour, visit the Japanese Covered Bridge, a Chinese communal house and • Vietnam domestic economy class air travel Enjoy a boat trip on the Tonle Sap Lake and the colourful market. Take a boat ride on the Thu • 12 nights 4 star hotel accommodation witness the unique lifestyle of the people who Bon River and visit Thanh Ha where skilled locals • 1 night on board the ‘Pelican Cruise’ inhabit the lake region. Visit Kampong Kleang, produce beautiful pottery. (B/L) junk cruise a village where houses are built on stilts and • 13 buffet breakfasts, 11 lunches & 7 dinners seeing the fishing communities that thrive along Day 10 Thu Hoi An / Hanoi the edges of the lake. Fly to Saigon and stay two • 1 evening cultural show with transfers This morning transfer to the airport in Danang • eturn tr n er ightseeing & entrance fees nights at the Grand Hotel. (B/L) for your flight to Hanoi and stay one night at the • Cambodia / Vietnam visa for Australian Day 5 Sat Saigon Ann Hotel. Lunch will be at KOTO Restaurant. This afternoon visit the History Museum and the passport holders Today you will travel to Cu Chi Tunnels. Temple of Literature which was the first university • Travel kit and backpack Constructed by Viet Cong fighters during the in Vietnam. Enjoy an evening at the Water Puppet Vietnam War, these tunnels ran directly under Show. (B/L) military bases and were used both as shelters and to stage surprise attacks. This afternoon, visit to Day 11 Fri Hanoi / Halong Bay the Reunification Palace, History Museum, the Travel to Halong Bay via the rich farmlands and Notre Dame Cathedral, the Central Post Office, villages to join your overnight cruise on board the Opera-House, City Hall, Dong Khoi Street and Ben ‘Pelican Cruise’ junk. Observe the natural beauty Thanh Market. This evening enjoy a relaxing of the unique grottoes that rise towards the sky as dinner cruise. (B/L/D) you leisurely sail the emerald green waters of the Day 6 Sun Saigon / Can Tho bay. (B/L/D) Spend a day exploring the colourful floating Day 12 Sat Halong Bay / Hanoi markets and lush back waterways of the Mekong Watch the sunrise over the bay before your return Delta. Journey to Cai Be and Vinh Long, walk to to the pier and transfer back to Hanoi. Stay two the villages and visit to some local home factories. nights at The Ann Hotel. (B) Discover the stunning landscapes as you sail along the river and observe the typical Mekong Day 13 Sun Hanoi Delta rural life. Continue to Can Tho and stay one Today visit Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum, his wooden night at the Victoria Can Tho Hotel. (B/L/D) cottage and the One Pillar Pagoda. Enjoy a Day 7 Mon Can Tho / Saigon walking tour through the bustling Old quarter and continue to Hao Lo Prison, formerly known as the Early this morning, take a boat ride to the bustling ‘Hanoi Hilton’ during the Vietnam War. Stop will floating markets of Cai Rang where countless be made at the Buddhist Tran Quoc Pagoda, Quan boats, loaded with local produce are moored Thanh Temple and the Museum of Ethnology. This alongside the riverbank ready for trading. Sail evening enjoy dinner at the Ly Club. (B/L/D) through the markets and watch the locals haggle and trade their wares to interested buyers. A stop Day 14 Mon D anoi will be made at the vibrant tropical fruit gardens re e etn u tr n er t t e r rt r before returning to Saigon and stay one night at ur n r t the Grand Hotel. (B/L)
a. Halong Bay b. Angkor Thom, Siem Reap
See your Travel Agent or Call 1300 788 328 - helenwongstours.com 27 16 Cambodia & VietnamDays Odyssey Visit : Phnom Penh / Siem Reap / Saigon / Can Tho / Hoi An / Hanoi Halong Bay
Journey deep into the history pages of Cambodia’s past and Aexperience and the rapidly changing Vietnam. Prepare to experience the best of two contrasting neighbouring countries on a journey that combines a cyclo tour through Cambodia’s fascinating Phnom Penh with a sail on a junk on scenic Halong Bay. a.
TUK TUK - So named because of the motorised sound it lets out, the tuk tuk developed from the traditional pulled rickshaw or cyclo rickshaw as a “new’ style of taxi in such countries as Indochina. The tuk tuk is a common form of urban transport, both for hire or private use – another fun way to venture along the streets and lanes of major centres.
Hanoi 3 1
MYANMAR Halong Bay
cDermott Gallery - Named Mafter legendary photographer John McDermott who first came to Cambodia in 1995 to capture on film the temples of Angkor under LAOS the light of a total eclipse of the sun, this gallery - a permanent exhibition at the National Museum Hoi An 2 in Phnom Penh - features the photographer’s many impressive images taken during his travels 3 Siem Reap throughout Asia. . CAMBODIA VIETNAM 2 Phnom Penh
Saigon 3 1 Can To (Mekong)
28 Cambodia & VietnamCambodia Odyssey
b. c.
Day 1 Sun Arrive Phnom Penh Day 9 Mon Can Tho / Saigon n rr u e tr n erre t the Himawari Early this morning, take a boat ride to the bustling Hotel for two nights. floating markets of Cai Rang where countless boats, loaded with local produce are moored Day 2 Mon Phnom Penh alongside the riverbank ready for trading. Sail Explore the city by cyclo visiting Wat Phnom, the through the markets and watch the locals haggle d. Royal Palace, the Silver Pagoda and the National and trade their wares to interested buyers. A stop Museum. Visit the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum will be made at the vibrant tropical fruit gardens and the Killing Fields and learn about Cambodia’s before returning to Saigon and stay one night at CAMBODIA & VIETNAM Code: CVO past under the leadership of Pol Pot’s Khmer Rouge. the Grand Hotel. (B/L) ODYSSEY Stop at the Central Market and try your hand at Day 10 Tue Saigon / Hoi An DEPARTURES TWIN SGL bargaining for souvenirs, jewellery and fabrics. Enjoy PER PERSON SHARE SUPP Khmer welcome dinner a the charity Romdeng Transfer to the airport for your flight to Danang. Restaurant (except in April). (B/L/D) On arrival, travel to the charming town of Hoi An. Along the way, stop at Non Nuoc Beach, Marble Apr - Sep $ , 0 $1,400 Day 3 Tue Phnom Penh / Siem Reap Mountain and visit the Cham Museum, Stay two Oct - Mar'20 $5,250 $1,590 Fly to Siem Reap and stay three nights at the Lotus nights at the Hoi An Historic Hotel. (B/L/D) Blanc Resort & Spa for three nights. (B/L/D) Day 11 Wed Hoi An WHAT’S INCLUDED Day 4 Wed Siem Reap Described as ‘living museum; with narrow Early this morning visit the breathtaking Angkor winding streets and rows of carefully-preserved •Cambodia to Vietnam economy class air travel Wat. Explore by tuk tuk to Angkor Thom, the last ancient houses, Hoi An has unique charm and • Cambodia & Vietnam domestic economy capital of the Khmers and home of the Elephant atmosphere. Enjoy a cyclo tour, visit the Japanese class air travel Terrace. Continue to the Terrace of the Leper King, Covered Bridge, a Chinese communal house and The Terrace of Elephants, Angkor Wat Temple and the colourful market. Take a boat ride on the Thu • 14 nights 4 star hotel accommodation Bayon Temple. Witness the sun setting from Pre Bon River and visit Thanh Ha where skilled locals • 1 night on board the ‘Pelican Cruise’ Rup, a pyramidal temple surrounded by rice produce beautiful pottery. (B/L) junk cruise fields. Tonight enjoy a traditional Khmer welcome • 15 buffet breakfasts, 13 lunches & 8 dinners dinner. (B/L/D) Day 12 Thu Hoi An / Hanoi This morning transfer to the airport in Danang • 1 evening cultural show with transfers Day 5 Thu Siem Reap for your flight to Hanoi and stay one night at • eturn tr n er ightseeing & entrance fees Today visit the temples of Preah Khan, Banteay The Ann Hotel. Lunch will be at KOTO Restaurant. • Cambodia / Vietnam visa for Australian Samre and Banteay Srey, better known as the This afternoon visit the History Museum and the passport holders ‘Citadel of the Women’. Continue to Banteay Kdej Temple of Literature which was the first university and Ta Prohm, known as the ‘Kingdom of Trees’ in Vietnam. Enjoy an evening at the Water Puppet • Travel kit and backpack because of the giant fig and banyan trees that are Show. (B/L) slowly reclaiming the temple. Late this afternoon, take a traditional tuk tuk to the McDermott Gallery Day 13 Fri Hanoi / Halong Bay and enjoy a welcome drink as you stroll through the Travel to Halong Bay via the rich farmlands and gallery. Dinner tonight will be at the Foreign villages to join your overnight cruise on board the Correspondents Club. (B/L/D) ‘Pelican Cruise’ junk. Observe the natural beauty of the unique grottoes that rise towards the sky Day 6 Fri Siem Reap / Saigon as you leisurely sail the emerald green waters of Enjoy a boat trip on the Tonle Sap Lake and the bay. (B/L/D) witness the unique lifestyle of the people who inhabit the lake region. Visit Kampong Kleang, Day 14 Sat Halong Bay / Hanoi a village where houses are built on stilts and Watch the sunrise over the bay before your return seeing the fishing communities that thrive along to the pier and transfer back to Hanoi. Stay two the edges of the lake. Fly to Saigon and stay two nights at The Ann Hotel. (B) nights at the Grand Hotel. (B/L) Day 15 Sun Hanoi Day 7 Sat Saigon Today visit Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum, his wooden Today you will travel to Cu Chi Tunnels, constructed cottage and the One Pillar Pagoda. Enjoy a by Viet Cong fighters during the Vietnam War, these walking tour through the bustling Old quarter and tunnels ran directly under military bases and were continue to Hao Lo Prison, formerly known as the used both as shelters and to stage surprise attacks. ‘Hanoi Hilton’ during the Vietnam War. Stop will This afternoon, visit to the Reunification Palace, be made at the Buddhist Tran Quoc Pagoda, Quan History Museum, the Notre Dame Cathedral, the Thanh Temple and the Museum of Ethnology. This Central Post Office, Opera-House, City Hall, Dong evening enjoy dinner at the Ly Club. (B/L/D) Khoi Street and Ben Thanh Market. This evening enjoy a relaxing dinner cruise. (B/L/D) Day 16 Mon D anoi re e etn u tr n er t t e r rt r Day 8 Sun Saigon / Can Tho ur n r t Spend a day exploring the colourful floating markets and lush back waterways of the Mekong Delta. Journey to Cai Be and Vinh Long, walk to the villages and visit to some local home factories. Discover the stunning landscapes as you sail along the river and observe the typical Mekong Delta rural life. Continue to Can Tho and stay one night at the Victoria Can Tho Hotel. (B/L/D) a. Royal Palace, Phnom Penh b. Highway of Vietnam c. National Museum, Phnom Penh d. Angkor Wat, Siem Reap
See your Travel Agent or Call 1300 788 328 - helenwongstours.com 29 9 Charms of Days Laos Visit : Hanoi / Vientiane / Vang Vieng / Phonsavanh / Luang Prabang
e welcomed by the charms of smiling faces in a truly unique part Bof the world – timeless and memorable. Experience all ancient and modern characteristics of capital Vientiane and blend it with visits to Vanh Vieng and much photographed Luang Prabang.
a.
BUDDHIST MONKS - As Buddhism is the primary religion of Laos, seeing and meeting a monk would be of no surprise. The Buddhism practiced in Laos is of the Theravada tradition, a unique version of Theravada Buddhism the basis of Lao culture. Buddhism in Laos is often closely tied to animist beliefs and a general belief in ancestral spirits, particularly in rural areas.
MYANMAR
Luang Prabang 3 1 Hanoi aos cuisine - Distinct from other LAOS LSoutheast Asian cuisines, the staple food is steamed sticky rice, VIETNAM which is eaten by hand. The most Phonsavanh 2 famous Lao dish is larb, a spicy mixture of marinated meat or fish, Vang Vieng 1 sometimes raw, with a combination Vientane 2 of herbs, greens and spices. The food eaten in Laos is influenced by its neighbours and the colonial French.
30 Charms of Laos
b. c. d.
Day 1 Thu Arrive Vientiane Day 6 Tue Phonsavanh / Luang Prabang CHARMS OF LAOS Code: COL n rr u e tr n erre t the e t Enjoy a scenic six hour drive to Luang Prabang DEPARTURES TWIN SGL e tern Hotel for two night. and stay three nights at the Hotel. (B/L) PER PERSON SHARE SUPP
Day 2 Fri Vientiane Day 7 Wed Luang Prabang Apr - Sep $2,760 $6 0 This morning visit Wat Sisaket, one of the most This morning visit Wat Xieng Thong, the glittering Oct - Mar'20 $2, 0 $ 00 beautiful temples in Vientiane and to nearby Wat symbol of the city. Travel by private longboat and Phra Keo, a religious museum which displays a cruise up the Mekong River to the mysterious Pak WHAT’S INCLUDED collection of both Lao and Khmer works of art. Ou Caves which house thousands of Buddha Continue to Patuxay Monument, a large structure statues. On the way back visit Ban Xang Hai, once • 8 nights 4-5 star hotel accommodation similar to the Arc de Triomphe in Paris, then to a ‘jar-maker village’ and the local community now • 8 buffet breakfasts, 7 lunches & 4 dinners That Luang, the holiest site in Laos. Lunch at a fill the jars with lao-lao, the local rice whiskey. • 1 evening cultural show with transfers charity-run Makphet Restaurant. Travel to Buddha Continue to the former Royal Palace, now the • eturn tr n er ightseeing & entrance fees Park stopping en route at the Friendship Bridge national museum and visit Wat Mai. End your day • Laos / Vietnam visa for Australian passport which was built by the Australian government by climbing the 328 steps to Phousi Hill for a holders in 1994. This evening enjoy a traditional Laotian breathtaking view of the city and countryside. • Travel kit and backpack dinner and show. (B/L/D) Stop at the evening hill tribe market. (B/L)
Day 3 Sat Vientiane / Vang Vieng Day 8 Thu Luang Prabang Discover the scenic beauty of Nam Ngum Lake, the Morning visit to Wat Visoun to see the famous largest lake in Laos and the first hydroelectric dam. Watermelon Stupa and Wat to see the altar of the Watch local fishermen as you cruise on the lake two geniuses of Luang Prabang. Travel onto the then continue to Vang Vieng and stay one night at refreshing waters of the Kuang Si waterfall and the Silver Naga Hotel. (B/L/D) watch the waters tumble over multi-tiered limestone formations into a series of turquoise Day 4 Sun Vang Vieng / Phonsavanh pools. This afternoon visit Ban Tha Pan to see the Depart for a five hour coach journey to Kamu way of living then Ban Ou, a Lao Loum Phonsavanh and enjoy a short city tour. Stay two Village. Also stop at Ban Na Ouane a Hmong nights at the Vansana Hotel. (B/L/D) village whose inhabitants have their origins in the mountains of southern China. (B/L/D) Day 5 Mon Plain of Jars Visit the mysterious Plain of Jars, a large area Day 9 Fri Depart Luang Prabang where huge jars of unknown origin, some up to Farewell Laos u tr n er t t e r rt r t e 1000kg, are scattered in groups across the land. n r t After lunch, visit Muang Khoun, home to a unique sitting giant Buddha. (B/L)
a. Buddah Park b. Traditional Buddhist way of life c. Smiling Face d. Local wet market
See your Travel Agent or Call 1300 788 328 - helenwongstours.com 31 11 Charms of Days Myanmar Visit : Yangon / Bagan / Mandalay / Heho / Inle Lake
olonial charm and dazzling pagodas, this intriguing country Cremains untouched by the modern world. From capital Yangon with its impressive Shwedagon Pagoda and the countless pagodas which dot the countryside around Bagan to the free-flowing Irrawaddy River to Mandalay and beyond to Inle Lake, Myanmar is as intriguing as it is mysterious. a.
BAGAN - An ancient city to rival the temple of Angkor Wat, Bagan and its countless pagodas characterises life as it was several centuries ago - the first kingdom to unify the regions that would later constitute modern Myanmar. Between the 11th and 13th centuries, over 4000 Buddhist temples, pagodas and monasteries were constructed, of which the remains of over 2200 still survive.
Mandalay 2 Heho oth men and women in Myanmar 2 Inle lake use a yellow to apply to the face Bagan B 2 from the bark of the Thanakha MYANMAR tree as a cosmetic. It is an effective sunscreen that also tightens the skin and prevents oiliness. When the locals in Myanmar want to get a waiter’s attention, they make a kissing sound.
Yangon 4
32 Charms of Myanmar
b.
Day 1 Mon Arrive Yangon n rr u e tr n erre t t e e n te r t ree n t Day2 Tue Yangon This morning enjoy a 45 minute train journey to the outskirts of town to see the lively and colourful lifestyle of the local people and stop at the Insein c. Market. Visit Kyaukhtatgyi Pagoda, home to a 70 metre long reclining Buddha then continue to the tea shop to experience an integral part of Burmese Embark on a boat trip to the riverside village of life – drinking tea! Stroll through the Kandawagyi CHARMS OF MYANMAR Code: COM Park and late this afternoon visit the Shwedagon Mingun. See the Mingun Bell, the world’s largest uncracked bell and visit the Mingun Pagoda. DEPARTURES TWIN SGL Pagoda, the most revered Buddhist temple in PER PERSON SHARE SUPP Myanmar and enjoy the breathtaking sunset. (B/L) Travel to Sagaing, regarded as the religious centre of Myanmar and home to 3000 monks and at Day 3 Wed Yangon least 100 meditation centres. After lunch, cross the May - Sep $ , 0 $ 0 river to Amarapura and visit the local silk shops This afternoon visit to the historic Post Office, walk Oct - Apr'20 $ , 00 $1,2 0 to Sule Paya and pass by Mahabandoola Garden and Mahagandayon monastery which is home to and the Independence Monument. Also visit Little nearly 1000 monks. Continue to U Bein Bridge and India and Chinatown, then stop at the Bogyoke stroll across the 200 year old teak bridge. (B/L) WHAT’S INCLUDED Market, formerly Scott’s Market and popular for Day 8 Mon Mandalay / Heho / Inle Lake local handicrafts. (B/L/D) • Myanmar domestic economy class air travel Fly to Heho and stay two nights at the Novotel • 10 nights 4-5 star hotel accommodation Day 4 Thu Yangon / Bagan Inle Lake Myat Min Hotel. Enjoy a scenic one • 10 buffet breakfasts, 9 lunches & 5 dinners Fly to Bagan and stay at the n e for two hour drive to Nyaung Shwe market then board a nights. Visit the elevated Tayokye Pyay Temple for a motorboat to Inle Lake and cruise past the unique • eturn tr n er ightseeing & entrance fees panoramic view of the plains of Bagan. Stop at the village communities that are built on stilts along the lake. (B/L) • Myanmar visa for Australian passport holders golden stupa of Shwezigon Pagoda for an • Travel kit and backpack introduction to the Bagan’s rich historical past Day 9 Tue Inle Lake & Indein then continue to a cave temple, Wetkyi-In Gubyaukgyi to see the exquisite ‘jataka’ mural Morning visit to the markets where the lake paintings. Afternoon visit to a beautiful inhabitants and nearby hill tribes sell and trade architectural masterpiece, the Ananda Temple. Join their wares. Continue to Phaung Daw Oo Pagoda, a horse and cart ride to the highest temple of see local crafts, stop at the weaving village of Thatbyinnyu before enjoying an unforgettable Inpawkhone and a cheroot factory where the sunset from the upper terrace. (B/L) typical Burmese cigars are made by hand. Lunch at an Inthar family home then take a walking Day 5 Fri Bagan tour of the Pa-oh village and wander through the Start your day with an unforgettable hot air picturesque Alaung Sitthou area. (Market closed balloon flight (Oct-Mar only) over the plains of on dark moon day and full moon day). (B/L) Bagan and enjoy the fabulous views as the sun Day 10 Wed Inle Lake / Yangon rises over the stupas and Irrawaddy River. Stop at the colourful Nyaung Oo Market and visit a village Transfer to Heho for your flight to Yangon and where the local delicacy poney and plum jam is stay one night at the Hotel. This afternoon, take made. Visit a traditional lacquer ware workshop a ferry to Dhala and travel by local trishaw and a local neighbourhood where bullock carts are through the town where you can shop at the made. Take a boat ride along the Irrawaddy River markets and interact with the friendly locals. to the impressive Kyauk Gu U Min Temple and Learn about the monastic life in Myanmar stop at a farming village for a taste of the local when you visit the monastery which serves as lifestyle. (B/L/D) a community centre and an important part of Burmese rural life. (B/L/D) Day 6 Sat Bagan / Ava / Mandalay Day 11 Thu D angon Fly to Mandalay and transfer to the er ure n e rt for two nights. Visit the Farewell Myanmar u e ut ur te ancient capital of Ava and enjoy a horse and carriage travel through the town. Stop at the old wooden Bagaya Monastery and the remains of the Royal Place. Afternoon visit to Mahamuni Pagoda, home to one of the most revered Buddha images and covered with gold leaf. See the production of wood carvings, kalaga tapestries and gold leaf before moving onto Mandalay Hill to enjoy the magnificent sunset over the Irrawaddy River. (B/L/ D) Day 7 Sun Mingun / Amarapura Excursion a. Reclining Buddha, Kyaukhtatgyi pagoda, Yangon b. Fishing Village, Inle Lake c. Shwedagon Pagoda, Yangon
See your Travel Agent or Call 1300 788 328 - helenwongstours.com 33 13 Charms of Days Cambodia Visit : Siem Reap / Battambang / Phanom Penh / Kratie / Banlung
ncover the essence of Cambodia, the temples of Angkor, colonial Umansions and remote rural communities. From the inspirational temples of Angkor Wat to the hustle and bustle capital Phnom Penh, this journey covers to very best of a country different from others in the region.
a.
KHMER FOOD - The staple food for Cambodians is rice, although average meals typically consist of more than one dish, ideally with contrasting flavours and textures. Herbs, leaves, pickled vegetables, dipping sauces, edible flowers and other garnishes and condiments are featured. There are hundreds of varieties of indigenous Khmer rice, from the fragrant jasmine- scented to countless types of wild, brown and sticky rice.
he sampot (also known as Tsarong) is the national garment of CAMBODIA Cambodia worn by men and women, it measures approximately one and 4 Siem Reap a half meters and both ends are 3 Ratanakiri sewn together, tied and safely secure 1 Battambang it on the waist. It is similar to those worn in the neighbouring countries of Laos and Thailand. 1 Kratie
VIETNAM 3 Phonm Penh
34 Charms of Cambodia
Day 1 Fri Arrive Siem Reap n rr u e tr n erre t the e Lotus Blanc Resort & Spa for four nights. Day 2 Sat Siem Reap Visit the early temples of the ancient Roluos Group. Enjoy the natural beauty of the countryside on a fun cow cart ride before stopping at the Roluos Pagoda where the Buddhist monks will celebrate a private blessing ceremony for you. Take in the spectacular aerial view of Angkor Wat on a short tethered balloon ride before enjoying a traditional Khmer welcome dinner. (B/L/D) Day 3 Sun Siem Reap Today visit Angkor Thom, home of the Elephant Day 8 Fri Phnom Penh / Kampong Cham CHARMS OF CAMBODIA Code: COC Terrace. Climb onto the back of an elephant and Kratie ride through the ancient South Gate to the Terrace DEPARTURES TWIN SGL Take a scenic drive via the mighty Mekong and PER PERSON SHARE SUPP of the Leper King, the Terrace of Elephants and hidden riverside villages to Kratie. Arrive Kampong Bayon Temple. Visit the colourful markets and Cham province and visit the hills of Phnom Pros Artisans d’Angkor, a centre to assist young people (Men’s Hill) and Phnom Srei (Women’s Hill) in Apr - Mar'20 $ , 0 $ 0 find work in their local villages by continuing the the Khmer language. See the colonial buildings practice of traditional arts. Climb on board a local of Kampong Cham as you stroll around town tuk tuk and travel to the temple of Ta Prohm, Srah then drive to Chhup, Cambodia’s largest rubber WHAT’S INCLUDED Srang and Banteay Kdei. (B/L) plantation. Stay one night at Rajabori Villas on Koh Trong island. (B/L/D) •12 nights 4 star hotel accommodation Day 4 Mon Siem Reap •12 buffet breakfasts, 11 lunches & 8 dinners Early morning start to catch the sunrise at the Day 9 Sat Kratie / Banlung / Ratanakiri • eturn tr n er ightseeing & entrance fees breathtaking Angkor Wat. Visit the temples of This morning, embark on a traditional sampan to •Cambodia visa for Australian passport holders Bateay Srei, then onto to Kbal Spean, one of the the Kampi area which is home to the endangered earliest Hindu pilgrimage sites in Cambodia. Take Irrawaddy River Dolphin. Return to Kratie and in •Travel kit and backpack a short 3km trek up the hill through dense jungle the afternoon, travel 4 hours by road to Banlung, and witness amazing views over the plains. See the capital of Ratanakiri Province and stay three the ‘River of 1000 Lingas’ with some remarkable nights at the Terres Rouges Lodge. (B/L/D) stone carvings of Hindu gods and animals. On the way back to Siem Reap, stop at the Landmine Day 10 Sun The Tampoun Territory Museum which serves as a rescue centre for a number of landmine amputee children. Late this Travel by jeep on a bumpy road to discover the afternoon, take a traditional tuk tuk to the surrounding waterfalls, crossing through bamboo McDermott Gallery and enjoy a welcome drink as forests to the scenic village of Voeune Sai, a you stroll through the gallery. Dinner tonight will Chinese enclave on Cambodian territory. Continue be at the Foreign Correspondents Club. (B/L/D) to the Tampoun villages by boat where you will discover that the local inhabitants still maintain Day 5 Tue Siem Reap / Battambang their traditions of daily life. This afternoon visit Early this morning join a private boat for a the volcanic lake of Yeak Loam where you can fascinating journey across Tonle Sap Lake to relax on the shore and enjoy the pristine natural Battambang and stay one night at the Bambu surroundings. (B/L/D) Hotel. Pass by floating villages and submerged forests and enjoy lunch on board. Explore local Day 11 Mon The Kroeung Territory villages and learn how traditional rice paper and Journey north toward the Lao border to the Khmer treats are made. Tonight visit the School of village of Taveng, cross a round lava field and Music, Visual and Performing Arts, a project to drive through spectacular forest. Stop at Kroeung provide education, support and entertainment to villages where you will meet the hilltribes and the poor communities. (B/L/D) learn about their culture and traditions. (B/L/D) Day 6 Wed Battambang / Phnom Penh Day 12 Tue Ratanakiri / Phnom Penh Enjoy a four hour overland journey to Phnom Penh Depart early this morning for a visit to Banlung and stay two nights at the r n Hotel. market where local produce and handicrafts are Enjoy Khmer Dinner at the Charity Romdeng sold. Travel 8 hours by road back to Phnom Penh restaurant. (except April). (B/L/D) for one night at the Himawari Hotel. (B/L) Day 7 Thu Phnom Penh Day 13 Wed D hnom Penh Explore the city by cyclo visiting Wat Phnom, the Royal Palace, the Silver Pagoda and the National Farewell Cambodia u tr n er t t e r rt Museum. Visit the infamous Tuol Sleng Genocide r ur n r t Museum and the Killing Fields and learn about Cambodia’s past under the leadership of Pol Pot’s Khmer Rouge. Stop at the Central Market and try your hand at bargaining for souvenirs, jewellery and fabrics. (B/L)
a. Royal Palace, Phnom Penh
See your Travel Agent or Call 1300 788 328 - helenwongstours.com 35 t e Journeys
aximum flexibility with a personal touch. For individual and family holidays Mor just book as an extension to the beginning or end of ur
Indochina is one of the world’s perfect places for individual Flexibility and family holidays. With its rich ethnic diversity, breathtaking landscapes and ancient sites, you could take in everything • Maximum flexibility from rides in a buffalo cart, bicycle or tuk tuk, trekking or • Travel any date you want cooking classes. In addition, the region offering a whole new • Variety of itinerary options range of beach holiday destination where you can just simply have a relaxing beach holiday. Personal Touch Included in the tour prices are accommodation, some meals (B-Breakfast, L-lunch, D-dinner), return transfers, sightseeing • Your own private car with driver and entrance fees, internal flights, personal English speaking • Your own English-speaking guide • Choice of region you want to visit guide and driver.
Inclusions
• Accommodation • Some meals • Return transfers • Sightseeing and entrance fees • English speaking guide and driver.
36 Vietnam Private Journey Vietnam t e Journeys
Authentic Saigon Mekong Adventure 4 Days > Saigon 4 Days > Saigon / Cai Be / Sa Dec / Can Tho
Day 1 Arrive Saigon Day 1 Saigon / Cai Be / Sa Dec Transfer to the hotel for three nights. This morning, transfer from your hotel in Saigon to board the ‘Song Xanh Sampan’ cruising among local fruits and vegetables barges to Cai Be Day 2 Saigon floating market. En route you will see farms and historic mandarin houses Visit the Cu Chi Tunnels constructed by Viet Cong fighters during the from the late 19th Century. Visit home factories to see how rice paste, Vietnam War and used both as shelters and to stage surprise attacks. coconut candies are traditionally made. Lunch will be at an Indochinese Continue to the Reunification Palace, History Museum, the Notre Dame villa ‘Le Longanier’ by the river. Continue your cruise after lunch to Sa Cathedral, the Central Post Office, Opera-House, City Hall, Dong Khoi Dec, also known as ‘little Venice’. Explore this charming and peaceful Street and stop at Ben Thanh Market. (B/L) town, venture along its narrow streets, where lovely French colonial houses, Vietnamese and Chinese temples can be found. Visit Trung Vuong Day 3 Saigon primary school where novelist Marguerite Duras spent her childhood Today is free for you to enjoy what Saigon has to offer, you can venture (turned into a movie “The Lover”). Also a stop will be made at the ancient to the Mekong Delta, another of Vietnam’s must-see sights. Or visit house of Org Huynh Thuy Le before returning to your cruise. Dinner on some of the centuries-old temples tucked away seconds from busy board tonight. (L/D) streets; see the sidewalk hawkers serve up delicious street food or make stops at the swanky rooftop bars or restaurant. (B) Day 2 Sa Dec / Can Tho After breakfast on board, explore the most exotic and authentic Sa Dec Day 4 Depart Saigon local market on foot. Continue your cruise to Can Tho along a narrow Transfer to the airport. (B) canal, passing under several bridges and tiny villages. Some stops may be arranged for an opportunity to mingle with local villagers. Also visit Cao Dai Temple as well as a bicycle ride through the countryside. The last stop will be made at 19th Century homestead ‘Nha Co’ to enjoying a candlelit dinner. Return to the sampan and continue your cruise to Can Tho where the Sampan will moor for the night. (B/L/D) Day 3 Can Tho – My Tho Early morning approaching Cai Rang floating market, the largest in the Mekong Delta, cruising among the bustling floating markets of Cai Rang where countless boats, loaded with local produce are moored alongside the riverbank ready for trading. Disembark at My Tho before midday and transfer to Island Lodge for one night. The remainder of the day is at your leisure to relax at the lodge where you can swim at the pool, enjoy a sauna, typical spa or a great Vietnamese massages. (B/L) Day 4 Depart My Tho After breakfast, transfer to Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon). (B)
AUTHENTIC SAIGON Code: VN-SG MEKONG ADVENTURE Code: VN-SGMD SINGLE SINGLE DEPARTURES TWIN SUPP DEPARTURES TWIN SUPP Apr - Sep $585 $330 Apr - Sep $1,020 $150 Oct - Mar’ 20 $600 $350 Oct - Mar’20 $1,060 $170
See your Travel Agent or Call 1300 788 328 - helenwongstours.com 37 Halong Exploration Sapa Mountain Trek 4 Days > Halong Bay / Ninh Binh 5 Days > Sapa
Day 1 Hanoi / Halong Bay Day 1 Hanoi / Lao Cai Transfer to Halong Bay to join your overnight Early this evening, transfer from your hotel to the cruise. Observe the natural beauty of the unique railway station for the overnight train to Lao Cai. (D) grottoes that rise towards the sky as you leisurely sail the emerald green waters of the bay. (L/D) Day 2 Arrive Lao Cai Early morning arrive at Lao Cai and transfer to Day 2 Halong Bay / Ninh Binh Topas Ecolodge for two nights. After enjoying your Join early morning Tai Chi on the cruise deck breakfast at the lodge where you get a spectacular then take a short visit to the beautiful limestone 360 degree mountain view, start a walking tour grotto. Cruise back to the pier where you will be through rice paddy terraces where you can take transferred to Ninh Binh for two nights at the Ninh magnificent pictures of the lovely valley, rivers and Binh Legend Hotel. (B) local colourful farmers. Meet the Red Dao minority nationality at the Lech village and learn about their Day 3 Ninh Binh daily life and how women mastered the old skill Considered one of the most beautiful regions of of embroidery. Return to the lodge and have the Vietnam with dramatic scenery, historical and afternoon at leisure. (B/L/D) religious sites. Visit Tam Coc (Three Caves) where the region has earned the nick name ‘Dry Halong Day 3 Ban Ho Village Bay’ due to the karst limestone landscapes that In the morning, take a hike or mountain biking dominate the area. Join a boat cruise through the down the valley to the relatively untouched - Tay spectacular caves and stop at small villages and minority village in Ban Ho, Bring your swimming farming communities. After lunch join your 24km costume as you can swim in the nearby waterfall roundtrip bicycle tour through spectacular scenery hole, and hear about the minority group’s culture. of rice fields, karst landscapes and quaint rural Remainder of the day is at your leisure at Topas villages. (B/L) Ecolodge where you can enjoy the peacefulness of this remote location. (B/L/D) Day 4 Ninh Binh / Hanoi Morning depart on a 21km bicycle ride through Day 4 Sapa / Lao Cai / Hanoi striking rural scenery and finish in the village of Enjoy breakfast at the lodge’s terrace where you Van Long, the largest wetland nature reserve in can enjoy the natural scenery and beauty of the northern Vietnam. Join a short cruise to see the rice fields. After check out, you will be transferred to local fauna, birds, reptiles, amphibians and fish. your starting point for today’s trekking, you will cross Transfer by road back to Hanoi. (B/L) the Muong Hoa River by bridge and explore the beautiful scenery, rice paddies and idyllic villages where you will meet two hill tribes – Giay and Black H’mong – both are difference in customs and traditions, Giay people prefer to dress in colourful silk while the Black H’mong people produce indigo coloured hemp wear. After your simple lunch in a local village restaurant, your car will take you to the historic town of Sapa where you have time to visit the minority market and an old French colonial church before your transfer to Lao Cai for your overnight train journey to Hanoi. (B) Day 5 Arrive Hanoi Early morning arrival in Hanoi, transfer to the city of Hanoi where you Sapa mountain trek ends.
HALONG EXPLORATION Code: VN-HN SAPA MOUNTAIN TREK Code: VN-SP SINGLE SINGLE DEPARTURES TWIN SUPP DEPARTURES TWIN SUPP Apr - Mar’ 20 $1,000 $360 Apr - Mar’20 $1,2 0 $4 0
38 PrivateVietnam Journey Private Journey
Scenic & Wilderness Spectacular Seascapes 5 Days > Hanoi / Mai Chau 6 Days > Hanoi / Halong Bay
Day 1 Arrive Hanoi Day 1 Arrive Hanoi Transfer to the hotel and stay two nights. Transfer to the hotel and stay two nights. Day 2 Hanoi Day 2 Hanoi Morning visit to Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum, his Morning visit to Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum, his wooden cottage and One Pillar Pagoda. Continue wooden cottage and One Pillar Pagoda. Continue to the Temple of Literature and Hoa Lo Prison to the Temple of Literature and Hoa Lo Prison (formerly known as the ‘Hanoi Hilton’) and the (formerly known as the ‘Hanoi Hilton’) and the Museum of Ethnology. (B/L) Museum of Ethnology. This evening, visit Hoan Kiem Lake to watch the skilled puppet masters Day 3 Hanoi / Mai Chau entertain the crowds at the Water Puppet Depart for a scenic drive to Mai Chau and along Theatre. (B/L) the way pass fields of tapioca, sugar cane and rice paddies. Enjoy lunch in a traditional stilt house Day 3 Hanoi / Halong Bay of the Thai people and take a stroll to Lac village Travel to Halong Bay. Board your cruise and relax and Van village where you will see local villagers and unwind as you sail the emerald green waters in the fields, logging or herding buffalo. Stay one of the bay. After lunch, take a short trek to a night in Mai Chau. (B/L/D) nearby summit for a panoramic view of the bay then enjoy swimming or sunbaking on a quiet Day 4 Mai Chau / Hanoi beach. Later in the day, visit a fishing village and Morning tour to Soldier Cave and enjoy a meet the fishermen who have lived in the bay for Hmong village walk. Return to Hanoi and stay generations. Watch the sun set over the bay and one night. (B/L) relax onboard for the evening. (B/L/D) Day 5 Depart Hanoi Day 4 Halong Bay Transfer to the airport. (B) Transfer to a smaller boat and cruise the bay’s most untouched areas. Enjoy swimming, discovering the water tunnels, kayaking or sunbaking before returning to your cruise vessel for the evening. (B/L/D) Day 5 Halong Bay / Hanoi Join early morning Tai Chi on board and then take a short tour to the beautiful limestone grotto. Return to Hanoi and stay one night. (B) Day 6 Depart Hanoi Transfer to the airport. (B)
SCENIC & WILDERNESS Code: VN-HM SPECTACULAR SEASCAPES Code: VN-HH SINGLE SINGLE DEPARTURES TWIN SUPP DEPARTURES TWIN SUPP Apr - Sep $8 0 $230 Apr - Sep $1, 0 $ 0 Oct - Mar’20 $9 0 $300 Oct - Mar’20 $1, 20 $ 0
See your Travel Agent or Call 1300 788 328 - helenwongstours.com 39 Historic North & Central Central Vietnam 6 Days > Hanoi / Hue / Hoi An 6 Days > Danang/Hoi An/Hue
Day 1 Arrive Hanoi Transfer to the hotel and stay two nights. Day 1 Arrive Danang Transfer to your hotel and stay two nights. Day 2 Hanoi Morning visit to Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum, his wooden cottage and Day 2 Danang One Pillar Pagoda. Continue to the Temple of Literature and Hoa Lo Day at leisure to discover all the exciting activities along China Beach. (B) Prison (formerly known as the ‘Hanoi Hilton’) and the Museum of Ethnology. This evening, visit Hoam Kiem Lake to watch the skilled Day 3 Danang / Hoi An puppet masters entertain the crowds at the Water Puppet Transfer to Hoi An for one night. Described as a ‘living museum’ Theatre. (B/L) of narrow winding streets and rows of ancient houses, Hoi An is brimming with unique charm and tranquility. Enjoy a walking tour of Day 3 Hanoi / Hue the town and see architecture reminiscent of the traders of a bygone Fly to Hue and stay one night. This afternoon, enjoy a boat trip along era – Japanese, French, Chinese and Indian – as well as the carefully- the Perfume River, visit Thien Mu Pagoda and the Imperial Citadel. (B) preserved old houses. Visit the unique Japanese covered bridge and a Chinese communal house. (B/L) Day 4 Hue / Hoi An Travel by coach over the beautiful Hai Van Pass and stop at Non Nuoc Day 4 Hoi An / Hue Beach, the Cham Museum and Marble Mountain. Described as a ‘living Journey north to Hue and stay two nights. En route pass Lang Co, a museum’ with narrow winding streets and rows of carefully preserved lovely stretch of beach before arriving at Danang and continuing along ancient houses, Hoi An has unique charm and atmosphere. Enjoy the mountain roads which offer spectacular views of the coastline. This a walking tour of the town and see architecture reminiscent of the afternoon visit the Imperial Citadel, built in the early 19th century and traders of a bygone era. Visit the unique Japanese covered bridge and a modelled on the Forbidden City in Beijing. Visit the Hue Royal Fine Art Chinese communal house. Stay two nights in Hoi An. (B/L) Museum and Phu Cam Village to see how traditional Vietnamese hats are made from palm leaves. (B/L) Day 5 Hoi An Day at leisure. (B) Day 5 Hue Visit the Imperial Tomb of Emperor Tu Duc of the Nguyen dynasty. Day 6 Depart Hoi An Take a boat ride along the Perfume River and see the magnificent Transfer to Danang airport. (B) architecture of the Thien Mu Pagoda, regarded as the most beautiful of Hue’s pagodas. (B/L) Day 6 Depart Hue Transfer to the airport. (B)
NORTH & HISTORIC CENTER Code: VN-HNHH CENTRAL VIETNAM Code: VN-DNHH SINGLE SINGLE DEPARTURES TWIN SUPP DEPARTURES TWIN SUPP Apr - Sep $1,1 0 $300 Apr - Mar’20 $900 $330 Oct - Mar’20 $1,2 0 $3 0
40 Vietnam / Cambodia Private Journey Private Cambodia / PrivateVietnam Journey Cambodia t e Journeys
Cambodia Culture Temples of Angkor 4 Days > Phnom Penh / Kampong Thom 5 Days > Siem Reap
Day 1 Arrive Phnom Penh Day 1 Arrive Siem Reap Transfer to Himawari Hotel for one night. This afternoon visit the Royal Transfer to Lotus Blanc Resort for four nights. Palace which is the residence of the King and Queen and although closed to visitors, the beautiful building and palatial gardens are still Day 2 Siem Reap visible from the outside. Visit the National Museum which houses the Visit Angkor Thom – last capital city of the Khmers and home to the world’s foremost collection of ancient Khmer archaeological, religious Elephant Terrace. The Terrace of the Leper King and the stunning Bayon and artistic pieces. Temple, then to Ta Prohm Temple, the Banteay Kdei Buddhist monastery and Srah Srang which is also known as the ‘pool of ablutions’. See the Day 2 Phnom Penh / Kampong Cham / Kampong Thom temples of the Grand Circuit, the Preah Khan Temple and Neak Pean. This morning travel through the Cambodian countryside stopping Enjoy sunset from the Pre Rup Temple. (B/L) to visit Kampong Cham, a port town on the banks of the mighty Mekong River and Wat Nokor, an 11th century Buddhist temple. Day 3 Siem Reap Your tour will continue with a visit to Phnom Srey and Phnom Pros Early morning start to catch the sunrise at the breathtaking Angkor before ending in Kampong Thom where you will stay at Sambor Wat. Later visit Kampong Kleang, a village where houses are built Village for two nights. (B/L) on stilts. Here is where you can witness the unique lifestyle of the people who inhabit the Tonle Sap Lake region. Board your boat and Day 3 Sambor Prei Kuk Excursion pass by submerged forests and fishing farms that thrive at the edges Drive out of town to see the 6th and 7th century temples which lie of the lake. (B/L) deep in the jungle and off the tourist trail. Many of the towers are in Day 4 Siem Reap good condition with tree roots and vines growing over the structures. Visit the temples of Banteay Srey and Banteay Samre, better known as Stop at the Isanborei Craft Hut, a local community run shop established ‘the citadel of women’. Continue to the early Angkor Temples of Bakong, to preserve traditional handicrafts made from bamboo and rattan. Lolei and Preah Ko. Rest of the day at leisure. (B/L) Continue to Phnom Santuk Mountain and climb nearly 1000 steps to the top where you will admire the beautiful sunset at the pagoda. (B/L) Day 5 Depart Siem Reap Transfer to the airport. (B) Day 4 Kampong Thom / Phnom Penh Return to Phnom Penh city. (B)
CAMBODIA CULTURE Code: CMB-PPKT TEMPLES OF ANGKOR Code: CMB-SR SINGLE SINGLE DEPARTURES TWIN SUPP DEPARTURES TWIN SUPP Apr - Mar’20 $920 $220 Apr - Sep $1,040 $440 Oct - Mar’20 $1,150 $560
See your Travel Agent or Call 1300 788 328 - helenwongstours.com 41 Mountains & Beaches Epic Journey 5 Days > Phnom Penh / Koh Kong 5 Days > Siem Reap / Battambang,
Day 1 Arrive Phnom Penh Day 1 Arrive Siem Reap Transfer to Himawari Hotel for one night. This afternoon visit the Royal Transfer to the Lotus Blanc Resort for one night. This afternoon visit the Palace, although closed to visitors, the beautiful building and palatial breathtaking Angkor Wat – constructed in the early 12th century. gardens are still visible. Also visit the National Museum. Day 2 Siem Reap / Battambang Day 2 Phnom Penh / Kirirom National Park Journey to Battambang where you will stay for two nights at Bambu Today visit Kirirom National Park, which means ‘Mountain of Joy’ and Hotel. The atmosphere of Battambang is very relaxed and this afternoon see its unique high elevation pine forest and many endangered species. you will discover this charming river town has many fine examples of Enjoy a short 3km trek to the Chambok Waterfall for a simple, yet French colonial architecture. (B/L) delicious home cooked lunch by the local community. Continue travel to Koh Kong where you will spend three nights at the 4 Rivers Floating Day 3 Battambang Lodge. (B/L/D) Visit to Phnom Sampeau or ‘Ship Hill’ in Khmer as it has a distinctive shape and is one of the few hills that stand out on this otherwise Days 3 - 4 Koh Kong flat plain. Continue to Wat Banan where you will walk (short and Days at leisure. Take a boat trip, swim in the clear waters, trek to the tough) through local villages and farms to the 11th century temple Tatai Waterfall or just relax and enjoy the eco lodge. (B/L/D) on the mountain top. Then to the cultural villages and learn how they produce rice paper, prahoc (fish paste), grolan (sticky rice stuffed in Day 5 Koh Kong / Phnom Penh bamboo) and other Cambodian treats. Tonight enjoy Khmer cuisine at Morning return to Phnom Penh city centre. (B) a restaurant. (B/L/D) Day 4 Battambang / Siem Reap Travel back to Siem Reap and visit the Ta Prohm Temple, built in the mid-12th to early 13th centuries and overgrown by jungle trees and vines. Continue to the monumental magnificence of Angkor Thom – last capital city of the Khmers and home to the Elephant Terrace and the Terrace of the Leper King and the stunning Bayon Temple. (B/L) Day 5 Depart Siem Reap Transfer to the airport. (B)
MOUNTAINS & BEACHES Code: CMB-NPKK EPIC JOURNEY Code: CMB-SB SINGLE SINGLE DEPARTURES TWIN SUPP DEPARTURES TWIN SUPP Apr - Sep $1,690 $680 Apr - Sep $1,330 $380 Oct - Mar’20 $1,810 $800 Oct - Mar’20 $1,430 $440
42 Cambodia PrivateCambodia Journey
Capital & Angkor Cambodia Escape 6 Days > Phnom Penh / Siem Reap 8 Days > Phnom Penh / Kep / Sihanoukville
Day 1 Arrive Phnom Penh Day 1 Arrive Phnom Penh Transfer to Himawari Hotel for two nights. Transfer to Himawari Hotel for one night. Day 2 Phnom Penh Day 2 Phnom Penh / Kampot / Kep Today learn about the leadership of Pol Pot’s Travel by vehicle to Kep for three nights at the Khmer Rouge when you visit the infamous Tuol Knai Bang Chatt Resort. Stop at the pre-Ankorian Sleng Museum and the Killing Fields. Then to temples of Tonle Bati and continue to Takeo. the Royal Palace, although closed to visitors, the Take a boat ride along the river to the museum of beautiful building and gardens are still visible. Angkor Borei and the temple ruins of Phnom Da. Also visit the National Museum. (B/L) Enjoy a walking tour of Kampot, a lovely riverside town. (B/L) Day 3 Phnom Penh / Siem Reap Fly to Siem Reap for three nights at the Lotus Day 3 Kep Blanc Resort. Visit the monumental magnificence Enjoy an excursion to the caves of Phnom Ta’aun, of Angkor Thom – last capital city of the Khmers Phnom Sor Sia and Kampong Trach. (B/L) and home to the Elephant Terrace, the Terrace of the Leper King and the Bayon Temple. Enjoy a Day 4 Kep beautiful sunset from the Pre Rup temple. (B/L) Visit Rabbit Island (Koh Tonsay) where the white sand beaches and shallow waters make it ideal for Day 4 Siem Reap swimming. (B/L) Early this morning visit the breathtaking Angkor Wat. Afternoon visit Kampong Kleang, situated on Day 5 Kep / Sihanoukville the northern shore on the edge of Tonle Sap Lake. Transfer to Ream National Park and the two islands Board your boat and pass by submerged forests of Koh Thmei and Koh Ses. Travel by boat to the and fishing farms and discover the fishing villages beaches of Koh Sam Pouch and enjoy lunch (own that thrive at the edges of the lake. (B/L) expenses) and free time. Transfer to Sihanoukville for two nights at the Sokha Beach Lakeside Hotel. (B) Day 5 Siem Reap Another amazing day will be spent in Siem Reap Day 6 Sihanoukville visiting the temples of Banteay Srei and Banteay Day at leisure. (B) Samre, better known as ‘the citadel of women’. After lunch, visit Ta Prohm Temple, the Banteay Day 7 Sihanoukville / Phnom Penh Kdei Buddhist monastery and Srah Srang which Return to Phnom Penh by vehicle where you will is also known as the ‘pool of ablutions’. Continue stay for one night. Stop at the entrance of Royal to the most beautiful temples of the Grand Circuit, Palace which is the residence of the King and the Preah Khan Temple and Neak Pean. (B/L) Queen and although closed to visitors, the beautiful building and palatial gardens are still visible from Day 6 Depart Siem Reap the outside. Visit the National Museum. (B/L) Transfer to the airport. (B) Day 8 Depart Phnom Penh Transfer to the airport. (B)
CAPTAL & ANGKOR Code: CMB-PPSR CAMBODIA ESCAPE Code: CMB-VNPPKS SINGLE SINGLE DEPARTURES TWIN SUPP DEPARTURES TWIN SUPP Apr - Sep $1,540 $540 Apr - Sep $2,230 $1,020 Oct - Mar’20 $1,620 $630 Oct - Mar’20 $2,320 $1,100
See your Travel Agent or Call 1300 788 328 - helenwongstours.com 43 Laos t e Journeys
The Royal Capital A Blend of two cities 4 Days > Luang Prabang 6 Days > Vientiane / Luang Prabang
Day 1 Arrive Luang Prabang Day 1 Arrive Vientiane Transfer to your Le Sen Boutique for three nights. Transfer to Best Western Hotel for two nights. Day 2 Luang Prabang Day 2 Vientiane Luang Prabang is an enchanting town filled with Visit Wat Xieng Khuan (Buddha Park) which has historic temples and colonial style buildings. a collection of whimsical but compelling statues The entire town was declared a UNESCO World of Buddhist and Hindu gods and That Luang. Heritage Site in 1995. Start the day at Wat Visoun, Continue to Ho Pha Keo, the former royal temple considered the oldest operating temple in Luang and Wat Si Muang and Patuxai, a monumental Prabang. Visit Wat Aham and Wat Xieng Thong, arch inspired by the Arc de Triomphe. Stop at Talaat the crowning jewel of all the monasteries and Sao, the all day ‘morning market’ and the best temples in the city. End your day by climbing place to buy traditional Lao fabrics. (B/L) Phousi Hill for a breathtaking view of the city and surrounding countryside. (B/L) Day 3 Vientiane / Luang Prabang Fly to Luang Prabang for three nights at the Le Sen Day 3 Luang Prabang Boutique Hotel. This afternoon, climb Phousi Hill Travel to the steep limestone cliffs overlooking for a breathtaking view of the city and surrounding the Mekong and Nam Ou rivers, home to the countryside. (B/L) Tham Pak Ou Caves. These caves are filled with Buddha images, of every style and material Day 4 Luang Prabang imagineable. Stop at Ban Xang Hai Village, Visit Wat Visoun considered the oldest operating famous for the production of lao lao, the local temple in Luang Prabang. Visit Wat Aham and rice wine whiskey. Then to Kuang Si waterfall, Wat Xieng Thong, the crowning jewel of all the located in a perfect natural setting near Luang monasteries. (B/L) Prabang. Along the way visit the minorities village of Ban Muang Khai before arriving at the Day 5 Luang Prabang multi-tiered waterfall that tumbles over limestone Travel to Tham Pak Ou Caves. These caves are formations into a series of turquoise pools. Enjoy filled with Buddha images in every style and swimming in the clear water or just relaxing in material imaginable. Stop at Ban Xang Hai village, the natural environment. Continue to Ban The famous for the producing ‘lao lao’, the local rice Pene, a nearby Khmu village. (B/L) wine whiskey, then to Kuang Si waterfall and along the way visit the minority village of Ban Muang Day 4 Depart Luang Prabang Khai. Continue to Ban The Pene, a nearby Khmu Transfer to the airport. (B) village. (B/L) Day 6 Depart Luang Prabang Transfer to the airport. (B)
THE ROYAL CAPITAL Code: LS-LP A BLEND OF TWO CITIES Code: LS-VL SINGLE SINGLE DEPARTURES TWIN SUPP DEPARTURES TWIN SUPP Apr - Mar’20 $910 $2 0 Apr - Mar’20 $ 520 $ 50
44 Laos / Myanmar Private Journey Myanmar t e Journeys
Ancient Kingdoms Myanmar Discovery 6 Days > Yangon / Mandalay / Bagan 6 Days > Yangon / Bagan / Inle Lake / Mandalay
Day 1 Arrive Yangon Day 1 Arrive Yangon Transfer to the Chatrim Hotel. Afternoon visit Transfer to the Chatrim Hotel. Afternoon visit Kyaukhtatgyi Pagoda, home to a 70 metre long Kyaukhtatgyi Pagoda, home to a 70 metre long reclining Buddha. Continue to a Modern Tea reclining Buddha. Continue to a Modern Tea Shop for a chance to experience an integral Shop for a chance to experience an integral of part of Burmese life, drinking tea! Take a walk part of Burmese life, drinking tea! Take a walk through the Kandawgyi Park and stop at the through the Kandawgyi Park and stop at the Shwedagon Pagoda and enjoy breathtaking views Shwedagon Pagoda to enjoy breathtaking views of the golden stupa and the city skyline from this of the golden stupa and the city skyline. vantage point. Day 2 Yangon / Bagan Day 2 Yangon / Mandalay Fly to Bagan, a 42sq km city and home to over Transfer to the airport for flight to Mandalay 2000 well-preserved pagodas and temples from for one night at the n Hotel. Start your the 11th-13th century. Enjoy the sunset over afternoon at Sagaing – home to 3,000 monks and these magnificent structures. Spend two nights 100 meditation centres where you will find a at Aye Yar River View Hotel. (B/D) typical Burmese market that few tourist visit. Continue to the ancient capital of Ava and travel Day 3 Bagan by horse carriage to the old wooden Bagaya Visit the colourful market and local villages Monoestery, the Royal Place and Fort. (B/L) producing traditional lacquer ware and wood crafts. Take a boat ride along the Irrawaddy River Day 3 Amarapura / Ava / Sagaing / Bagan to the impressive Kyauk Gu U Min Temple with Morning stop is Amarapura to enjoy a stroll along a stop at the farming village to get an in-depth the 200 year old teak bridge before your transfer knowledge of their local way of life. Return to to Bagan by air where you will stay three nights at Bagan by boat. (B) the Bagan Lodge. (B/L) Day 4 Bagan / Heho / Inle Lake Day 4 Bagan Fly to Heho and transfer to Nyaung Shwe, the Visit the colourful market and local villages gateway village to Inle Lake. Board a motorboat producing traditional lacquer ware and wood to Inle Lake through the villages built on stilts crafts. Take a boat ride along the Irrawaddy River over the lake. Stop at the Phaung Daw Oo to the impressive Kyauk Gu U Min Temple with Pagoda, a weaving village and a cheroot factory, a stop at the farming village to get an in-depth where the typical Burmese cigars are made. knowledge of their local way of life. Return to Spend one night at the Novotel Inle Lake Myat Bagan by boat. (B) Min Hotel. (B/L) Day 5 Bagan Day 5 Inle Lake & Indein / Mandalay Enjoy Bagan at your own pace. (B) Visit the market where hill tribes and the lake inhabitants come to sell and trade their wares. Day 6 Depart Bagan Continue a walking tour of Pa-oh village and the Transfer to the airport. (B) picturesque Alaung Sitthou area. Afternoon flight to Mandalay where you will stay one night at the n Hotel. (B/L) Day 6 Depart Mandalay A short tour of the city and transfer to the airport. (B)
ANCIENT KINGDOMS Code: MYM-AK MYANMAR DISCOVERY Code: MYM-MD SINGLE SINGLE DEPARTURES TWIN SUPP DEPARTURES TWIN SUPP Apr - Sep $1, 0 $ 0 Apr - Sep $2,050 $520 Oct - Mar’19 $ 0 $ 0 Oct - Mar’19 $2,160 $750
See your Travel Agent or Call 1300 788 328 - helenwongstours.com 45 Terms And Conditions
These Terms & Conditions and all information set out in our brochure and the order 9. Amendments to Confirmed Reservations 18. PassengersNeedingSpecialAssistance form used to complete your booking forms the legal agreement between World Trade (a) All amendment terms are specified on a per change per booking basis. (a) We welcome passengers with disabilities or special needs provided their health Travel Pty Ltd t/a Helen Wong’s Tours ABN 45 061 891 263 (“Us” or “We”) and all its (b) Any amendment or changes to your confirmed tour booking will incur a fee of allows them to participate on the tour. To allow the tour group to travel together, we clients (“You”). $110.00. We will provide one free amendment to your tour booking provided that may require that passengers with disabilities or special needs are accompanied by Please read these Terms & Conditions before you make your tour booking. If you have it is requested at least 65 days prior to departure. acompanion who is capable of providing all necessary assistance paid for by the any questions or concerns please inform us before making a booking. By making a (c) Additional fees may be charged by the airlines for name changes or changes to traveller. booking with us, you have confirmed you agree to these Terms & Conditions. departure dates. (b) Any disability or medical condition requiring special attention must be reported to 1. Your Tour Does Not Include All Travel Related Expenses (d) All fees charged for confirmed Reservations are non refundable and are in us at the time of booking. It is the customer’s responsibility to advise us of such (a) Please read our brochures and the booking form to confirm what costs are addition to any charges levied by ground operators, airlines, hotels or other circumstances to ensure the selected tour is suited to your individual needs. We are included and what costs are excluded from the tour price. Details of what service providers. In case of transfer to another group tour within 30 days of not responsible for any loss of enjoyment, loss of touring or loss of monies should is included in any tour are set out in our brochure for that tour. If an item is departure, the applicable cancellation fees will apply. the customer be unable to participate in the tour or in any or all of the activities. not expressly included as part of tour package it is excluded and will be your 10. Late Bookings (c) Ahealth,mobilityandfitnesschecklistcanberequestedatthetimeofbookingto responsibility. (a) Bookings made within 30 days of departure from the port of origin will incur a non be sent to you with your invoice. (b) Examples of travel expenses that are not included in our tour price include any refundable late booking fee of $110.00 per person whether the reservation can be (d) We will make reasonable efforts to accommodate the special needs of disabled airfares not specifically included, airport taxes, laundry, passport and visa fees, confirmed or not. passengers, but we will not be responsible for any denial of services by third food not on the regular menu, drinks may or may not be included as indicated in (b) For late bookings, the completed and signed booking form, the full payment for party carriers, hotels, trains, restaurants or other independent suppliers, or for any your itinerary, excess baggage, fuel surcharges, optional excursions, pre travel the booking and the late booking fee must be received by Helen Wong’s Tours additional expenses. documentation, travel insurance, excess baggage charges, porterage, gratuities, within 24 hours of the booking request. (e) Coaches and minibuses are not each equipped with wheelchair ramps and not meals (unless specified), interstate/intrastate travel arrangements to and from (c) No late booking requests can be processed until the applicable booking form and all ships have elevators. Doors and restrooms on tour may not each be not wide home town and departure city, items of a personal nature, laundry, dry cleaning, payment is received by Helen Wong’s Tours. enough to allow access by standard wheelchairs. Wheelchairs and walkers beverages, personal accident and medical expenses, incidental expenses, taxis (d) In the event that the late booking request cannot be confirmed, the late booking usually cannot be carried on coaches due to space limitations. For safety reasons, where not part of a regular transfer, telecommunication charges and anything else fee of $110.00 will be retained by Helen Wong’s Tours but the balance of monies passengers in wheelchairs cannot be carried on ramps in ports where the a ship is which is not specified in your itinerary. paid for the booking will be refunded. at anchor. (c) We reserve the right to make substitutions for any tour component with a (e) No booking requests will be accepted within 14 days of departure from the port of origin. (f) We are unable to provide individual assistance to any passenger for walking, dining, replacement of equivalent value where any items described in our tour brochure 11. Passport and Visa Processing boarding or alighting coaches or other transportation vehicles or other personal needs. are not available for you or your tour for any reason. (a) All passengers must have a passport that is valid at the time of commencement of 19. Group Departures (d) Details of important consumer terms & conditions and operator responsibilities travel and for at least 6 months from date of departure. (a) Group tours will proceed when a minimum of people have deposited the tour relevant to all tour arrangements are contained in the brochure for the relevant (b) Passengers must consult with the appropriate consulates to ensure that they have any price. tour and apply to tour participants. The terms and conditions do not cover third applicable visas for countries included in the holiday package prior to departure. (b) Should the minimum number of people not deposit the tour price for a tour, party service providers that are used on our tours. (c) Passengers are solely responsible for meeting necessary passport and visa entry Helen Wong’s Tours reserves the right to cancel, amend or re cost the programme. (e) Passengers who do not participate or otherwise miss elements of their tour, requirements and paying all costs that are not included in the tour package price. (c) If such an event occurs, we shall endeavour to provide the choice of an alternative including specific tour events or any pre booked transfers, must make their own (d) We are not responsible for delays or missed portions of the holiday package tour or an amended tour. Otherwise, we will cancel the tour altogether in which way to and from our tour at their own expense. resulting from incorrect travel documents or visas. case a full refund of the tour cost less the visa fee will be made. 2. Tour Prices (e) Where you have asked us and we have agreed to arrange for a visa for some 20. Single Travellers (a) Prices are based on tariffs and rates of exchange current as at 1 December 2018 or all of the countries visited on our tour, you must deliver to us your passport, (a) Single travellers will incur a single traveller surcharge. and are quoted in Australian Dollars. completed visa application forms (accurately and completely filled out and (b) We will work with any single travellers who are willing to share accommodation (b) Prices are subject to change without notice. signed), all relevant processing fees to obtain the visa, passport photos in with another tour member if a request is made at the time of booking. Helen (c) In the event of fluctuations in currency exchange rates, service providers’ tariffs, the number and format required by the issuing authority and other required Wong’sTours will endeavour but cannot guarantee any success in matching the fuel prices, accommodation rates and other holiday service components, Helen documents. These documents must be received by Helen Wong’s Tours at least 30 client with a suitable person for the duration of the selected tour. Wong’s Tours reserves the right to adjust prices at any time up to and including days prior to departure. (c) If Helen Wong’s Tours is unable to allocate a suitable person to share the date of departure, unless the journey is fully paid. (f) If, for any reason, the documents are not received by Helen Wong’s Tours from you accommodation, the single traveller surcharge is to be paid by the client at the time (d) Acceptance of this arrangement is an express condition of making a reservation. or your travel agent by the due date, we reserve the right to charge an additional of balance payment. Similarly, for clients who choose to have sole occupancy of a We will use our best efforts to bring any alteration to advertised prices to the urgent visa processing fee. room throughout the tour, the single traveller surcharge will be payable at the time attention of your travel agent, however Helen Wong’s Tours does not accept (g) As a government issuance of a visa to travellers is outside our control, we make of balance payment. responsibility in the event that this information is not passed on to you by the no representation or guarantee that any visa will be issued to any traveller. We 21. Travel Insurance travel agent. It is recommended that the client regularly check with the travel accept no liability for passengers unable to participate in any or all portions of a It is highly recommended that clients purchase travel insurance at the time of agent for any changes. tour due to failure to have complete travel documents including passports and reservation to address any contingencies such as loss of deposit and/or fare 3. Changes to Tour Price visas. through cancellation, loss or damage to baggage, loss of money and/or travel (a) We reserve our right to change tour prices up to the time that full payment for 12. Tour Operation documents, medical expenses, curtailment charges, personal accident and personal your tour has been received by us. (a) Although Helen Wong’s Tours will endeavour to ensure that all tour holidays liability. (b) Our tour prices are subject to change for a number of reasons including changes are available as advertised in this brochure and/or supplied in pre departure 22. BaggageRegulationsandAllowances to prices of hotels, service providers and transport (air, train, boat, coach, etc.) information, an express condition of making a reservation is the acceptance (a) In accordance with the international airline regulations, the free baggage allowance tickets, taxes and surcharges for things like fuel. We will make all reasonable by the client that tour itineraries and schedules, advertised accommodation, for economy class passengers is 20 kgs plus limited cabin luggage (this value efforts to alert you of potential changes, but we cannot guarantee that we will be sightseeing programs and modes of transportation are subject to change without is subject to change at short notice by our third party service providers). Please able to do so in every instance. prior notice. confirm with travel providers close to your date of departure to confirm any excess (c) Our airfare fees as set out in the tour prices are based on lowest booking class (b) Air travel, coach journeys and other forms of transport and hotel accommodation baggage charges as they are your sole responsibility to pay. at the time the tour prices are published. If the specific class is not available at are provided by independent operators and all bookings through Helen Wong’s (b) The carriage of bottled liquids of any kind (water, alcohol etc.) is not generally time of booking your tour, we will use commercially reasonable efforts to book the Tours are subject to the terms, conditions and limitations of carriers, hoteliers and permitted in your cabin baggage unless it is purchased after passing through the lowest available fare level and you will be responsible for the additional costs. other service providers. security area. 4. Reservation and Deposit (c) If your booking needs to be altered due to circumstances beyond our control, we 23. Accuracy of Tour description in our Brochures and On Our Website (a) All reservations requested are subject to space being available on the requested reserve the right to vary your itinerary and inform you of the subsequent changes. (a) We make every effort to accurately describe elements of our tours in our brochures, tour at the time of booking. (d) If the varied itinerary is only available at a higher cost, the client will be charged website and other marketing material. (b) To confirm your reservation with us, we will need to receive the following from the increased price. (b) However, things do change and sometimes very quickly. We do not guarantee that you: (e) Should such changes result in an itinerary which is materially different from your any of our descriptions are 100% accurate. (i) the completed and signed booking form; requested program and we have accepted your deposit or balance payment, you (c) For example, hotel categories and star ratings are based on advice received from (ii) your non refundable deposit within 7 days after our confirmation of your reserve the right to withdraw from the tour program and all monies (less fees paid each specific property listed and are not the decision of Helen Wong’s Tours. booking with us. If we do not receive your deposit within 7 days of your for visas for you) that have been received by Helen Wong’s Tours will be refunded (d) Any maps or other content contained in our brochure or on our website are intended signed booking form, your reservation will be cancelled. in full. as an indication only and are not guarantees of the types of images that may be (iii) Booking balance payment received as set out in section 5. (f) Helen Wong’s Tours recommends that all clients ascertain from its office or their seen or experienced on your tour. (c) Deposits paid are non transferable to another party. own travel agent if any change has occurred from the date of confirmation up to (e) While every effort is made to ensure all details are correct at the time of publication, (d) Asurchargewillbeaddedtothetotalamountofyourinvoiceifpaymentsare and including the date of departure. Helen Wong’s Tours takes no responsibility for advice that has been given in good made by credit card. (g) If for any reason Helen Wong’s Tours is forced to cancel a tour program, clients faith and at the discretion of each property. 5. Balance Payment will be offered an alternative tour of a similar standard and arrangement. Should 24. Procedurefor Lodging ComplaintsandClaims (a) The entire balance for your booking is due at least 65 days prior to departure. the alternative be unsuitable to the client, all monies paid to Helen Wong’s Tours (a) Should you feel that a valid complaint or claim should be lodged with Helen Wong’s Payment must be received by Helen Wong’s Tours. We note that payments made in respect of the original tour program will be refunded in full. In the event of a Tours or its service providers, you agree to the following procedures and terms. to third party travel agents are not payments to us. Helen Wong’s Tours accepts tour change or cancellation, our provision of an alternate itinerary or a refund of (b) Should the client feel that a failure in performance of Helen Wong’s Tours or no responsibility or liability whatsoever in respect of any payment made by you to monies is in full satisfaction of any claim for loss of enjoyment resulting from the its service providers has occurred, the client agrees to immediately inform the your travel agent or other third party that is not transmitted to us as required for change or cancellation. local service provider. At this time, the relevant service provider will endeavour any reason. (h) Unforeseeable circumstances, such as change to local conditions, force majeure, to promptly resolve the matter and inform Helen Wong’s Tours of the specific (b) Helen Wong’s Tours accepts no responsibility or liability whatsoever in respect of adverse weather conditions, airline flight rescheduling, hotel overbooking, faults circumstances. Should the local service provider be unable to assist or be any payment made by you to your travel agent. with transportation and road conditions, may also have a consequential effect on unavailable, the client agrees to contact Helen Wong’s Tours, Sydney, by telephone (c) If the balance due is not received by Helen Wong’s Tours by the due date, we the content and schedule of the tour after commencement. Any decision made by or facsimile. reserve the right to cancel your booking and apply the relevant cancellation us or our third party service providers to reroute or amend the itinerary is at the (c) In the event of a claim for compensation, the client agrees to inform Helen Wong’s charges as set out in section 6. discretion of the tour service provider. Helen Wong’s Tours shall not be liable for Tours in writing within 30 days of the date of tour completion. Relevant receipts (d) Further charges may apply as set out in these terms of service due to changes in any claim whatsoever arising from such events which affect the schedule and the and substantiating evidence must be attached to the letter of claim. Helen Wong’s the tour initiated by you or by our third party service providers. content of the tour. Tours will not be liable for any claims made later than 30 days after the date of tour 6. Cancellation and Related Charges 13. Public Holidays and Festivals completion. (a) We will apply the following cancellation charges in the event that you cancel a (a) All destinations have local events, political events, religious events and holidays 25. Limitation of Liability booking that has been confirmed by us: which may cause delay or disruption to the planner tour. Except to the extent that the law imposes a non excludable liability: (i) If you cancel your booking more than 65 days prior to departure, we will (b) Wherever possible, we will try to minimise any disruption caused, however we do (a) All bookings for holidays listed in this brochure are accepted subject to these terms retain your deposit paid at time of booking. not offer any discount or refunds due to local events outside of our control. and conditions, the conditions of carriage and other conditions imposed by our (ii) If you cancel your booking between 50 and 64 days prior to departure, 14. Tour member responsibilities service providers. cancellation fees will be 25% of the total tour cost or the total deposit, (a) All of our tours have been programmed to allow all tour members to have a great (b) In compiling this brochure, Helen Wong’s Tours has used information supplied to whichever is greater. travel experience. Each tour member must agree to abide by our Code of Travel it by the operators of the relevant services. Helen Wong’s Tours has endeavoured (iii) If you cancel your booking between 31 and 49 days prior to departure, Conduct. to ensure that the information contained in this brochure is correct at the time of cancellation fees will be 50% of the total tour cost or the total deposit, (b) If any tour member is unable or unwilling to comply with our Code of Travel printing. However, Helen Wong’s Tours accepts no responsibility or liability in respect whichever is greater. Conduct we will take immediate steps to preserve the enjoyment of the other tour of such information. Helen Wong’s Tours does not accept any liability for any loss, (iv) If you cancel your booking within 30 days of departure, cancellation fees will members. damage, inconvenience, delay,injury,irregularity, accident, expense or negligence be 100% of the total tour cost, whichever is greater. (c) In the event of a breach of our Code of Conduct, we reserve the right in our caused by inaccuracy or misdescription of services or failure to provide services. (b) No refunds are available for any portion of the tour after the holiday has sole discretion to either (1) offer the tour member who is in breach of our Code (c) Helen Wong’s Tours accepts no responsibility whatsoever for any negligence, loss, commenced for any reason. of Conduct immediate transport to return to place where he or she joined the damage, omission, accident, detention, diversion or theft in regard to luggage or any (c) All fees are assessed on a per person basis. tour at tour members expense; or where possible to (2) continue with a similar personal belongings. (d) We note that airline and other tour expenses may be subject to additional travel itinerary on a separate private tour. If option 2 is available and accepted, (d) Helen Wong’s Tours will be exempt from all liability in respect of any event, cancellation fees assessed by the relevant service provider. departing tour member agrees that further fees will be applied to process this negligent act, omission, death, accident, injury, sickness, irregularity, loss or 7. Airfare Charges and Associated Fees private tour. damage, unless caused by Helen Wong’s Tours. (a) Changes including cancellation of any airplane tickets may attract additional 15. General Health and Fitness (e) The client acknowledges and agrees that he or she shall have no claim or cause charges imposed by the relevant airline. These charges may be owed to us if (a) Agoodleveloffitnessandhealthisrequiredtoparticipateinourholiday of action against Helen Wong’s Tours should any carrier, hotelier or other service we purchased tickets on your behalf, or they may be owed directly by you to the packages. provider provide services which differ in any way from those specified in this service provider. (b) In some destinations there are extensive sightseeing excursions by foot which brochure or as outlined in pre departure information. (b) Once the ticket has been issued, additional cancellation fees for transport include the climbing of stairs. In addition, mobility is needed to board or alight (f) We accept no responsibility for losses or additional expenses due to delay in the imposed by the transport service provider will be subject to airline tariff from aircrafts, coaches, ships and trains. provision of services by service providers howsoever those delays are caused. regulations for the international air portion of any flight. (c) We recommend a visit to the doctor and dentist before travelling to overseas Neither does Helen Wong’s Tours accept responsibility for changes to or the (c) We reserve the rights to request partial payment in the event of any airline destinations. It is your responsibility to advise us of any pre existing medical withdrawal of services by the service providers. requires the ticket to be issued prior to the balance payment due date. conditions or health and mobility related concerns that may affect the normal (g) Helen Wong’s Tours makes all bookings and travel arrangements on your behalf 8. Hotels conduct of a holiday package and the enjoyment of other passengers. A health, on the express understanding that accommodation, travel arrangements and tours (a) The hotels we use for our tours are described in our brochures. mobility and fitness checklist can be requested at the time of booking to be sent are solely under the control of relevant tourism bodies authorised by the local (b) Apart from the descriptions of the hotels in our brochures, we make no to you with your invoice. authorities. Helen Wong’s Tours is not liable for any act, omission, or default on the representation or guarantee as to rooms assigned in any hotel. We confirm (d) Any costs incurred as a consequence of the customer’s need to return home due part of the operator, its servants, agents or contractors or any authorised body. that hotel rooms vary in size and location within the hotel. Where we have to to health are the customer’s sole responsibility. 26. Law of Contract change hotels due to local conditions, we will endeavour to ensure that alternative 16. Travel to Other Remote Locations These terms and conditions are governed by the laws of the state of New South accommodation is of an equivalent standard to the hotels included in our All travellers to other remote regions must provide us with a letter prior Wales in Australia and any legal action arising therefrom shall be litigated only in brochure. to departure confirming you are fit and healthy to take part in the tour. the appropriate court having jurisdiction in New South Wales. (c) Hotel rooms are generally not available for check in before 3pm and require check 17. Health Requirements 27. Brochure Validity out by 10am. Clients should familiarise themselves with any health requirements applicable The tours referred to in our brochures are valid to April 2020 (d) Accommodation in all hotels, regardless of the rating, is in standard run of the to areas they intend to visit. The client is solely responsible for compliance with 28. Data Collection and Privacy house twin or double rooms (sometimes given other names such as superior/ vaccinations and other health requirements of governments in countries visited or It is a condition of your tour booking that you allow us to contact you for business deluxe) unless otherwise stated in brochure. transited. The Department of Health or medical practitioners will be able to assist purposes using any information you supply to us. with current health requirements and recommendations. For more information, We confirm that the terms of our privacy policy apply to our business. Our privacy please check http://www.dfat.gov.au/. policy can be found at http://helenwongstours.com/privacy-policy. 46 Booking Form
Tour Information:
Tour title: Deposit Per Person: $440
Departure date: Departure city:
Room type: Twin Single
Client Information: (as per passport)
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A different world, new experiences... By choosing to travel to destinations such as Indochina, you are clearly seeking an experience of people and places quite different to those you find at home. This brings with it an obvious need for an open-minded approach, a sense of adventure, tolerance and an awareness that, perhaps, some aspects of a tour may need to be altered to suit prevailing conditions. Some reading and advance research into the regions you will visit will give you some idea of what to expect, tell you what to look out for and make the experience more enjoyable. It is important to bear in mind that our journeys are not for the holiday-maker who prefers to lie around all day. Days can be quite strenuous, filled with sightseeing and walking and, at times, early morning flights. Things don’t always run smoothly and occasionally conditions may be frustrating, but equally rewards are great for those with a genuine spirit of enquiry. Remember, this is not a journey of comparison but an opportunity for discovery ...
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