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 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 nue ret e On hand une n nner ern Supportive u te et t e ur n n t ut ur tte n uet Guidance n u te ne t er trn et retu returnt r er u n e u une n enturu eerene 3 Contents rte Journeys nu ern 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 te 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 Find us on What’s This? Throughout the brochure you will see these QR codes. Use your smart phone and scan them for a video preview of your tour. Download your QR code reader FREE from the Apple App Store www.helenwongstours.com or Google Play. 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.