2018 - 2019 - Asian Trails · MYANMAR THAILAND vietnam CAMBODIA MALAYSIA MALAYSIA Luang Prabang 3...

Great outdoors • Local Customs • Charming Hospitality • Traditional Cooking • Stimulating Art • Intriguing Architecture

Out of the ordaryTours for everyone

Explore Asia2018 - 2019

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1 Enchanting Ayutthaya>> pages 4–5

2 Cát Tiên Nature Escape>> pages 6–7

3 Adventurous Luang Prabang>> pages 8–9

4 Rivers and Caves Exploration in Southern Myanmar>> pages 10–11

5 The Authentic Hues of Sumba >> pages 12–13

6 Community-Based Tourism Project near Oudong>> pages 14–15

7 Beyond Northern Yunnan’s Shangri-La>> pages 16–17

8 Exquisite Glamping at Bukit Tinggi>> page 18–19

map asia & content

philippine sea

south china sea

indian ocean

CHINA

LAOSMYANMAR

THAILANDvietnam

CAMBODIA

MALAYSIAMALAYSIA

Luang Prabang

Hpa An

Mekong (Lancang) River

Beijing

Shangri-La

Sumba

Jakarta

Cát Tiên

Ayuatthaya

Bukit Tinggi

Kampong Chhnang

INDONESIAINDONESIA

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come ex plore with us.

Our unique programmes take individuals and small groups in an exciting new travel direction and provide unique, out of the ordinary experiences.

Our guests can achieve a truly authentic and sustainable travel experience in the great, wide outdoors. We cater for those with a passion for indigenous customs and culture; charming hospitality; f lavoursome and traditional cooking; stimulating ethnic art; and intriguing architecture.

ou t of t h e or di na ry tou r s f or e v e ryon e

int roduction

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Enchanting Ayutthaya

› Go back in time to ancient Siam in the former capital of Ayutthaya› Watch traditional artisans create exquisite hand-crafted artefacts› Explore the creative enclave of Ang Thong where nature meets inspiration

Delivering awe and splendour befitting its former capital city status, UNESCO-listed Ayutthaya is less than an hour by train from Bangkok but a million miles apart in terms of history. Visitors will witness heritage dating back to 1350 in the ancient park located on an island between three rivers. The archaeological site contains palaces, temples and weather-worn statues that give a rich cultural insight into this former trading port that was the first city until a Burmese invasion in 1767.

day 1, Bangkok – Ayutthaya › From Bangkok’s main Hua Lamphong Railway Station, we board a morning train to Ayutthaya for a leisurely journey past lush rice fields and farming communities. On arrival, a Kob, Ayutthaya’s version of the iconic tuk-tuk, will convey us to the famed archaeological park to explore a wealth of temples, pagodas and palaces. Highlights include the search for spiritual guidance at a meditation centre, exploration of generations-old handicraft workshops, including the Aranyik Knife Village where artisans relate their story of old Siam through an entertaining knife-making show. In proper Thai fashion, the day ends with a traditional noodle dinner in the company of friendly locals.

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day 2, Ang Thong› Ang Thong, named after the golden colour of the locally grown rice, is also a creative town that is home to fine arts and crafts. Alongside its farming tradition, the town is famed for its artisans who are highly skilled at hand crafting traditional Thai court dolls, drums and wickerwork. With the flow of the Chao Phraya ‘River of Kings’ through the town, the adjoining lush, green fertile landscape offers the perfect backdrop to the 200 glittering temples that dot the countryside. Highlights include a tour of a melon farm, exploration of Thailand’s Buddhist culture, followed by a leisurely drive back to Ayutthaya for dinner at a leading Ayutthaya resort.

day 3, Ayutthaya – Bangkok› Today we take to the water to navigate Ayutthaya’s famed moat, one of the city’s most recognizable landmarks. The boat ride gives a unique perspective of the abundant historical buildings. Traditional boat building remains an important local tradition that can be viewed in Ayutthaya even today. We then head to Wat Chaiwatthanaram to see ground-breaking restorative work being undertaken by the Ministry of Fine Arts to preserve the city’s cultural riches. Lunch en-route is prepared by a Michelin-star chef. Finally, we visit Niwet Thammaprawat temple, a striking Buddhist place of worship designed by an Italian architect in the style of a European Gothic church, as part of King Chulalongkorn’s modernization of Siam.

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HIGHLIGHTS

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1 · Ayutthaya Meditation Retreat2 · Wat Khun-In Thra-Pramul, Ang Thong 3 · Wat Niwet Thammaprawat4 · Ang Thong - Drum Making Village5 · Ayutthaya - Aranyik Knife Village

Travel Period Throughout the year.

Travel Duration Three days / two nights.

Group Size One – 30 persons.

Included in the Tour Accommodation based on room/breakfast with daily local lunches, two dinners, all tours and transfers with a local guide (multiple languages available), all entrance fees as outlined in the programme’s day-to-day itinerary.

Excluded from the Tour Other services and meals not included in the programme, optional tours, tips, personal expenses, personal travel insurance, visa expenses and airfares.

Remarks A respectful dress code is applicable for many of the Buddhist temple visits. It is recommended guests stay in Bangkok prior to commencement of the tour.

Programme subject to change.

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Cát Tiên Nature Escape

HIGHLIGHTS

› Explore uncharted jungle territory, easily accessible from Ho Chi Minh or Dalat› Visit impressive sustainable rehabilitation projects in Cát Tiên National Park› Trek through amazing flora and fauna in the company of expert guides

Within easy reach of Vietnam’s main southern tourism areas but a world apart in terms of flora and fauna, Cát Tiên is off the mass tourism radar. Guests will discover a vast lowland tropical forest and biosphere reserve that is home to ancient trees and botanical gardens. The park shelters a wide diversity of wildlife including bears, crocodiles, monkeys, elephants and rare birds. This is the perfect opportunity to find solitude and get back to nature on hiking and mountain bike trails.

day 1, Arrival Cát Tiên – Dao Tien Island Exploration> After check in to an eco-lodge, our home for two nights, we enjoy a leisurely lunch. The adventure then starts with a short boat ride to Dao Tien (Monkey) Island, escorted by an expert guide. Large areas of the island are protected zones and home to endangered primates and Loris freed from capture by poachers during illegal wildlife raids across the 56-hectare secluded area. A visit to a rehabilitation centre managed by the Endangered Asian Species Trust (EAST) and its NGO partners will give our guests an informative insight in the pioneering work done by these conservationists to safeguard threatened creatures.

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day 2, Bau Sau Lake Long Trek> After breakfast, a 10-minute pick-up truck ride starts a new day of exploration. We take to water for a cooling journey to Bau Sau ‘Crocodile’ Lake. Then, it is time to truly get back to nature with a five hour-plus hike along forest trails to view ancient trees, spot the estimated 200 Siamese crocodiles and evidence of other wildlife. After leaving this 2,500-hectare lagoon area, we sail to the Cát Tiên Bear and Wildcat Rescue Station to see animals rescued from poachers. We then head back to the lodge for dinner and overnight. Guests can book an optional early evening animal spotting tour with a guide.

day 3, Departure Cát Tiên> The last part of this nature-based exploration commences after breakfast with transfer to your next destination in Vietnam.

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1 · Cát Tiên – Cát Tiên Jungle Lodge accommodation2 · A rice farmer works near Cát Tiên3 · A wooden walkway in the National Park in Cát Tiên4 · Spot the croc in Cát Tiên5 · A gibbon on Dao Tien Island

Travel Period December - April.



Included in the Tour Accommodation, based on room/half-board with one lunch at the lodge and one picnic lunch on day two, all tours and transfers with a local English speaking guide, all entrance fees as outlined in the programme’s day-to-day itinerary.

Excluded from the Tour Other services and meals that are not included in the programme, donation fees at the rehabilitation centres (when applicable), optional early morning and early evening excursions around the Jungle Lodge, personal expenses, tips and optional transfers to/from Cát Tiên.

Remarks Recommended for experienced travellers with a decent physical condition. From May until November, jungle treks may be cancelled due to potential severe rain showers. The itinerary is subject to change depending on road and weather conditions.


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Adventurous Luang Prabang

HIGHLIGHTS

› Explore the mighty Nam Khan River from your own kayak › Fly like a bird over a jungle canopy attached to a zip-line› Enter an adventure race set in idyllic botanical gardens

Luang Prabang is Laos’ favourite tourism destination and renowned for its temples, French colonial influences and picture postcard scenery. However, it is lesser known for its adventure lifestyle, so we have created a unique, bespoke tour for those seeking intrepid outdoor pursuits, be it white-water kayaking, flying like a bird over jungle canopies, or competing in an adventure race. This excursion deviates from the typical tourist trail and gives an alternative insight into Luang Prabang.

day 1, Luang P rabang – Pic Noi> In the morning, we head out to the picturesque town of Pic Noi, 30 minutes from Luang Prabang. Accompanied by a kayak professional, the day starts paddling leisurely streams and then more adventurous white-water conditions, before disembarking near the tomb of 19th century French explorer Henri Mouhot, the adventurer who officially discovered Luang Prabang. We then head to one of the leading elephant sanctuaries to bath, feed and walk with jumbos in a jungle setting, next to the Nam Khan River. This activity is conducted with a sustainable approach and upmost respect for the animals. Saying farewell to these gentle giants marks the end of a great day.

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day 2, Nam Dhong Park> High flying adventure awaits today! Covering 800-metres of zip-lining trails high over the jungle canopy, Nam Dhong Park’s six stations are among the finest vantage points for amazing views over unspoilt green scenery. Guided by zip-line experts, the feeling of flying like a bird is achievable in this natural setting. Then the pace slows down as we view traditional handmade paper techniques. Laos and handicrafts have been intertwined for decades and working with Mulberry paper made from the bark of the Sa tree, as well as bamboo, gives guests an insight into this refined art through a non-commercial approach that promotes the cultural values of the country’s handicrafts.

day 3 , Pha Tad Kae – Luang P rabang> Pha Tad Kae Botanical Garden has emerged as a fabulous site for the adventure-minded. Starting with a short boat ride across the Mekong, this protected area of floral allure is the setting for an adventure race in which participants complete tasks related to culture, conservation, history, sustainability, spirituality and survival. Guests will be directed by a digital guide and tracked on Facebook so friends around the world can follow their progress. This is an exceptional way to discover Luang Prabang and a unique challenge few get to experience. At the end of the race, we head back to the hotel to conclude our three-day adventure.

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1 · Idyllic Pha Tad Ke countryside2 · One of the jumbos at Mandalao Elephant Sanctuary3 · Mandalao Elephant Sanctuary4 · Zip-line at Nam Dhong Park5 · Long-tail boats on the Mekong River


Travel Duration Three Days / two nights.


Included in the Tour Accommodation, based on room/breakfast with daily lunch from day one until day three, all tours and transfers with a local English speaking guide, all entrance fees as outlined in the programme’s day-to-day itinerary.

Excluded from the Tour Other services and meals not included in the programme, personal expenses and airport transfers from/to Luang Prabang Airport, travel insurance, tips, visa expenses and airfares.

Remarks Activities during the rainy season (May-September) may be subject to change when situations are considered unsafe to operate. A reasonable physical condition for guests is highly recommended with weight restrictions for the zip-line excursion. It is recommended guests stay in Luang Prabang prior to commencement of this tour.


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Rivers and Caves Exploration in Southern Myanmar

HIGHLIGHTS

› Venture deep into Kayin State to view spectacular mountains and waterways› Visit historical remnants of the World War Two ‘Death Railway’ line› Explore fascinating landmarks dating back to colonial and Mon settlements

The Hpa An and Mawlamyine trails have been the exclusive preserve of intrepid travellers for decades and exclusivity sets the theme for this exploration as we discover the first capital of British Burma and an area with a rich ethnic Mon heritage. Mawlamyine and the wider region offer a kaleidoscope of cultural, historical and nature-based experiences. Rivers, limestone caves, small villages and colonial-era heritage are intermingled on this unique tour.

day 1, Yangon – Hpa A n> An early departure from Yangon takes us on a five hour-plus journey towards the Kayin capital Hpa An. The drive is part of the experience and includes travel on rugged mountain roads, past meandering rivers and small farming communities, with plenty of opportunities for photo stops. Before reaching Hpa An, we explore the natural architecture of the Bayinyi and Kawgoon limestone caves. The revered 2,532-feet high Zwekabin Mountain, the state’s main landmark, which is exceptionally impressive viewed from the banks of Kanthayar Lake is a highlight of some of the natural splendours we will experience on this three-day exploration.

day 2, Hpa A n – Mawlamyine> The port town of Mawlamyine,

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90-minutes from Hpa An, played an important role during the construction of the infamous Burmese-Siam Railway, also known by its notorious nickname the ‘Death Railway’. A visit to the Allied War Cemetery, which contains over 3,500 allied POW graves, offers peaceful recollection of a dark era in history and a historical perspective of South East Asia. We then explore the magical Saddan Cave with its underground passages and a hidden lake.

day 3 , Mawlamyine> With waterways and the Gulf of Martaban within reach, we take to a boat to explore some of the smaller, idyllic settlements outside the city, including a typical ethnic Mon village for an introduction to their authentic way of life. The journey takes us past

karst formations and rustic riverside communities. Next is the impressive Kawhnat Pagoda, which was built in 1886 by famed patriot U Nar Auk. This impressive structure features intricately carved murals and delicate gold patterns. We then head back by boat to Mawlamyine for overnight.

day 4, Mawlamyine – Yangon> After breakfast, a seven-hour long drive through spectacular rolling countryside takes us back to Yangon to conclude this four-day adventure.

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1 · Entrance to Bayinyi Cave2 · Kyauk Ka Latt Pagoda near Saddan Cave3 · A Buddha image near Mawlamyine4 · A farmer works the land near Mawlamyine5 · Sunrise on Kanthayar Lake

Travel Period October – April.

Travel Duration Four days / three nights.


Included in the Tour Accommodation based on room/half-board with daily lunch from day one until day three, all tours and transfers with a local English speaking guide, all entrance fees as outlined in the programme’s day-to-day itinerary.

Excluded from the Tour Other services and meals not included in the programme, optional tours, tips, personal expenses, travel insurance, visa expenses and airfares.

Remarks Activities during the rainy season (May-September) may be subject to change when situations are considered unsafe to operate. It is recommended guests stay in Yangon before and after the tour.


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The Authentic Hues of Sumba

HIGHLIGHTS

› One of Indonesia’s unexplored regions with traditional villages, ancient tombs and perfect beaches› Venture deep into the ancient animist beliefs of Sumba’s residents› Discover the islands untouched and pristine natural beauty

The island of Sumba is a clear example of a road less travelled. Visitors will find an untouched land of vast savannah, pristine beaches and traditional villages that have stood the test of time. Ancient tombs, high priests and ceremonies are a way of life here. Although only a short flight from Bali, this destination feels a million miles away and stepping onto Sumba will transport visitors back in time to a place untouched by the modern world.

day 1, Tambolaka – Lamboya› After landing at Sumba’s Tambolaka Airport, we will be met by a driver and transferred to our accommodation on the southwestern corner of the island. After checking in, it is time to take a light trek through the countryside, accompanied by an expert guide.

day 2, Lamboya – Wanokaka› Today involves exploration of the island’s natural beauty. We visit Lapopu waterfalls – some of the most stunning cascades in the whole of Indonesia. Here we can cool off with a dip in the lagoon before heading south to Wanokaka’s white sandy beaches. Time can be enjoyed here playing in the surf and relaxing on the beach before finishing the day with a cold drink as the sun sets over the surf.

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day 3, Kodi – Waikububak› Village life and the animist beliefs of the Sumba people are truly remarkable. From viewing tombs at villages such as Ratenggaro, with its postcard-perfect beach, to relaxing in the Weekuri Lagoon with its crystal clear waters, Sumba surpasses expectations around every corner. Today, we switch accommodation to the Maringi Eco Resort which is part of the Sumba Hospitality Foundation. Created by Inge De Lathauwer, the Foundation believes all young people should get an opportunity in life to make a better future for themselves. Sumba is a beautiful, friendly island with a highly distinctive culture which is slowly developing into a tourism destination and the Foundation is capitalising on these assets by offering vocational

education courses in hospitality which enables young Sumbanese people to secure work in the growing tourism sector.

day 4, Waikububak – Tambolaka› Today we will enjoy a leisurely breakfast before being transferred to the airport for the flight back to our next destination within Indonesia.

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1 · Local boy on a horse next to a megalithic tomb2 · Weekuri Lake3 · Megalithic Tomb at Retenggaro4 · Retenggaro Beach5 · Sumba House


Travel Duration Four days / three nights.


Included in the Tour Accommodation based on room/half-board with daily lunch from day one until day three, all tours and transfers with a local English speaking guide, all entrance fees as outlined in the programme’s day-to-day itinerary and local taxes, service changes and applicable value-added taxes.

Excluded from the Tour Other services and meals not included in the programme, optional tours, tips, personal expenses, travel insurance, visa expenses and airfares.

Remarks Tourism on Sumba is still very much in its infancy. Touring around the island is with a driver-guide whose English language skills may not be up to the standard of other Indonesian destinations. Accommodation en-route is basic and comes with standard amenities.


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Community-Based Tourism Project near Oudong

HIGHLIGHTS

› Live the life of a Cambodian farmer on a traditional homestead› Sleep in a relaxing, rustic, wooden farmhouse › Enjoy local delicacies at the Smiling Gecko Farmhouse Restaurant

Founded on the principle of a community-based sustainable tourism project, Operators of the Smiling Gecko Farmstay have adopted a give-back-to-the-community approach in providing jobs to locals. This has created a happy and productive environment in which workers share their life experiences with guests. This two-day excursion is the perfect break from Phnom Penh and it also provides a solid livelihood for those in need of work.

day 1, Phnom Penh – Kampong Chhnang Province› A leisurely two-hour drive from Phnom Penh to Oudong signals the start of a sustainable, agricultural experience in rural Cambodia. Reaching the Smiling Gecko Farm, guests will be initiated by a guided tour through the various farm and social projects surrounding the complex, followed by check-in to a spacious stilt bungalow. After lunch at the farm’s restaurant, a unique bamboo train conveys guests through picturesque farm communities. We then explore an impressive hillside temple with exceptional scenic views. The day concludes with a Khmer/Western fusion dining experience back at the farm.

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day 2, Kampong Chhnang Province – Phnom Penh› The day arrives early in these provincial areas and we start with an insight into the lives of industrious Cambodians in a garment factory. We then get a different view of rural life as we head over to a local school where children welcome a brand new day with fun-filled rituals. Some of the income from the Smiling Gecko Farm directly supports this school and provides children with the basic education they need to better their chances in life. Then it is time to make our way back to the farmhouse restaurant for breakfast, locally prepared and served with a smile. After checking out, it is time to head back to Phnom Penh, or to the airport, depending on individual itineraries.

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1 · Your bed for the night at the traditional farm2 · Agricultural insight from a friendly farmer3 · Rolling countryside and farm projects4 · Happy smiles from local schoolchildren5 · Farmhouse at the Smiling Gecko homestay


Travel Duration Two days / one night.


Included in the Tour Accommodation based on room/full-board, all tours and transfers with a local English speaking guide, all entrance fees as outlined in the programme’s day-to-day itinerary and local taxes, service charges and applicable value-added taxes.

Excluded from the Tour Other services not included in the programme, optional tours, tips, personal expenses, travel insurance, visa expenses and airfares.

Remarks Accommodation at the Smiling Gecko Farmhouse is simple with basic amenities. School and garment factory visits may not be possible on weekend mornings and on public holidays.


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Beyond Northern Yunnan’s Shangri-La

HIGHLIGHTS

› Explore the ‘roof’ of Yunnan province – a scene of soaring peaks › Spend the night in small lodges that blend perfectly into the lofty landscape› Interact with the friendly inhabitants of this spectacular region

Nothing short of ‘magical’, ‘mystical’ and ‘breath-taking’ – these are recollections of former tea trail caravanners of Northern Yunnan which is a true Shangri-La. Modern-day travellers can share these early traders’ experiences with exploration of a land of snow-capped peaks, pristine lakes and dizzyingly deep valleys. Yunnan, which means ‘South of the Clouds’ offers visitors diverse ethnic cultures, a colourful history and exceptional landscapes.

day 1, Arrival at Shangri-La> Reaching 3,000-metres above sea level, a day of acclimatization is reserved after your arrival.

day 2, Shangri-La – Benzilan> Impressive and hugely significant, the Songzanlin Monastery will be our first stop. Nicknamed ‘Little Potala’ after the renowned Potala Palace in Lhasa, this monastery is regarded as Yunnan’s largest spiritual sanctuary. After lunch, we head to Benzilan where we make a stop at Gonjo Village, a well-known wood bowl painting settlement, before calling it a day for a well-earned rest.

day 3, Benzilan> The serenity of Benzilan forms the perfect background for an early morning, meditative walk around a local prayer house. We then get a view

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of the picturesque Tibetan villages that dot the mountain landscape. The clean, fresh air and the sublime scenery of this location will lift the spirits of those on this excursion and return them home reinvigorated.

day 4, Benzilan – Meili> New trails today lead to even more mountain magnificence. We see prominent peaks and guests reach the highest point at around 4,300-metres above sea level. With Mount Kawagarbo as a back drop, we enjoy lunch as our guide explains the importance of this area for pilgrimages. Printing our own Tibetan prayer flags at a local home signifies our spiritual arrival in Meili.

day 5, Meili> Taking our new printed flags before sunrise as a token of worship towards

Yunnan’s highest peak, Mount Kawagarbo, is a unique spiritual experience. Guests have the option of a hike up Baima Snow Mountain (six hours), or exploration of daily life in a local village.

day 6, Meili – Shangri-La> Today, we view the uplifting sunrise at Mount Kawagarbo. The rest of the day involves the journey back in the direction of Shangri-La, with a stop at charming Napa Lake. Lunch is included at an authentic lodge near Benzilan.

day 7, Zhongdian/Shangri-La – departure> Transfer to Deqin Airport is included.

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Travel Period April – December.

Travel Duration Seven days / six nights.


Included in the Tour Boutique lodges and hotels based on room/breakfast with all meals (locally flavoured with some western influences) included, all tours and transfers with a local English speaking guide, all entrance fees as outlined in the programme’s day-to-day itinerary and local taxes, service charges and applicable value-added taxes.

Excluded from the Tour Other services and meals that are not included in the programme, optional tours, tips, personal expenses, travel insurance, visa expenses and airfares.

Remarks We have chosen Tibetan-style accommodation throughout the tour. These are small lodges that embrace authenticity from all aspects. Due to high altitudes along the way, visitors are required to adapt accordingly by taking it slow and following the guide’s instructions.


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1 · Meili snow mountains2 · The lush, fertile landscape of Yunnan3 · The quaint streets of Shangri-La4 · Making prayer flags5 · Awe-inspiring Songzanlin Monastery

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Exquisite ‘Glamping’ at Bukit Tinggi

HIGHLIGHTS

› Explore Malaysia’s lush ‘green heart’ close to Kuala Lumpur› Spend the night under stars in a glamorous ‘glamping’ tent› Ease into relaxation mode during a gentle hike to Ulu Tampit Waterfall

Bringing people closer to nature is one of Malaysia’s fortes and ‘glamping’ in the green heart of Janda Baik offers the perfect experience. Although close to Kuala Lumpur, the countryside location belies the 30-km distance to the capital. Camping in luxury accommodation is the perfect restorative getaway. Meet new friends around an open camp fire, sleep under a canopy of stars and wake to the chorus of nature.

day 1, Kuala Lumpur – Buk it Tinggi› We leave Kuala Lumpur by four-wheel drive in the direction of the Genting Highlands on a journey that will take approximately 45-minutes across rugged inland roads. The presence of dense rainforests and mountain ranges is seen as a warm-up before we reach our camping grounds. En-route, our professional drivers will show us their capabilities of driving off-road in the heart of the Malaysian Peninsula. Just before the sun is about to set, we will reach our overnight address in the Bukit Tinggi Valley. Spread across seven acres of pristine natural land, Tiarasa Escapes Safari Tents provide a haven of natural serenity, with gently-flowing streams and the sound of nature as a relaxing soundtrack.

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day 2, Buk it Tinggi› Early morning risers will get to admire the amazing sunrises of this location. After breakfast, it is time to explore the natural attractions, including hiking the seven-tier Ulu Tampit Waterfall for exceptional panoramic views. A picnic lunch is served near to this geographical splendour. Cultural explorers will enjoy the walk through Bukit Tinggi with its own distinctive vibe and famed organically-produced products. The last evening of our tour is celebrated with a BBQ dinner, complete with an open fire, under a night of a million stars.

day 3 , Buk it Tinggi – Kuala Lumpur› Depending on the scheduled departure time, guests are free to enjoy this sanctuary at leisure. A range of optional tours can be booked to complement your glamping experience. Transfer from the resort back to Kuala Lumpur is included.

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1 · Glamping-style camp bedroom2 · An open fire, BBQ and music under the stars3 · Back to nature and yoga exercise4 · Early morning at Janda Baik 5 · Luxury tents in an idyllic setting



Group Size One – eight persons.

Included in the Tour Tented accommodation based on room/breakfast and one BBQ dinner on day two, local lunch on day two, all tours and transfers with a local English speaking guide, all entrance fees as outlined in the programme’s day-to-day itinerary and local taxes, service charges and applicable value-added taxes.

Excluded from the Tour Other services and meals that are not included in the programme, optional tours, tips, personal expenses, travel insurance, visa expenses and airfares.

Remarks Recommended for those with a decent physical condition. This tour is not suitable for guests with walking problems. The itinerary is subject to change depending on road and weather conditions.


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1 High Up North Down Under>> page 22

map aust ralia & content

coral sea

great australian bight

indian ocean

Sydney

Canberra

Melbourne

Perth

Darwin

Hobart

Brisbane

Cairns

Kakadu

Katherine

Litchfield National Park

AUSTRALIA

TASMANIA

arafura sea

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come ex plore with us.

Our programmes take individual and small group travel in a new direction. They are for travellers who don’t want to experience what everyone else already has.

They are for the seekers of a truly authentic and sustainable travel experience in the great outdoors, of local customs and charming hospitality, f lavourful traditional cooking, stimulating art, and intriguing architecture.

ou t of t h e or di na ry tou r s f or e v e ryon e

int roduction

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High Up North Down Under

HIGHLIGHTS

› Experience nature and the scenery of stunning Kakadu National Park› Discover indigenous culture in the outback region of Katherine› Explore and swim the magnificent waterfalls of Litchfield National Park

Darwin’s multicultural vibe – over 50 nationalities are represented here − is famed globally. Exciting opportuni-ties abound in the nation’s only tropi-cal capital city, be it museums with indigenous art, beachside markets, dining in an eclectic mix of restau-rants, or simply lazing beach-side. Beyond the city, a new world emerges – one that features the best nature-based exploration. With national parks in all directions, Darwin is truly the ‘great outdoors’.

day 1, Darwin – Kakadu› Upon arrival at Darwin Airport, we head straight into the Australian ‘bush’ towards Kakadu. Once a region of rice paddies, the area is now an expansive wetland called Mamukala and it is home to diverse wildlife. Part of the excitement starts as we reach the Adelaide River and cruise the habitat of jumping crocodiles. The evening is spent at a prominent hotel.

day 2, Kakadu› Kakadu town is firmly on the map for its extensive Aboriginal art sites. Landmarks such as Nourlangie Rock and Warradjan Aboriginal Cultural Centre are prime examples of the richness of the cultural heritage the indigenous Aboriginals created. We then cruise the waterway and look out

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for birds such as eagles, parrots and galahs. The best way to view the sheer size of this magnificent destination is to take an evening helicopter flight.

day 3, Kakadu – Katherine› Moving onward to Katherine offers true outback adventure. We start with trips to Leliyn and Edith Falls where shallow pools offer opportunities to cool down, followed by a drive to Nitmiluk National Park (Katherine Gorge). This is a series of sandstone ravines carved over millions of years which snake the Katherine River. Activities include trekking, canoeing, or helicopter flights, with overnight at an Aboriginal-owned lodge.

day 4, Katherine – Litchfield National Park - Darwin› Part of the charm of Litchfield National Park is its great accessibility – just over an hour’s drive from Darwin, allowing extended exploration on this final full-day. The park contains waterfalls, abundant rock pools, iconic termite mounds and clusters of sandstone pillars. Visitors can spot wallabies, quolls and flying foxes and the dragon-like water monitor that basks in the hot sun.

day 5 , Departure› Transfer from your hotel in Darwin to the airport is included.

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1 · Outback splendour at rugged Katherine Gorge2 · The boats that cruise through crocodile habitats3 · One of the gorges at Katherine4 · A crocodile swims at Kakadu National Park5 · The sun sets over Darwin


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Travel Duration Five days / four nights.


Included in the Tour Accommodation based on room/breakfast, all entrance fees as outlined in the programme’s day-to-day itinerary and local taxes, service charges and applicable value-added taxes.

Excluded from the Tour Other services and meals not included in the programme, car rental, parking and toll fees, optional tours, gratuities, personal expenses, travel insurance, visa expenses and airfares.

Explore India

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

Out of the ordarytours for everyone

Explore Africa 2016

Explore Africa

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

Out of the ordarytours for everyone

Explore the Middle East2016

Explore the Middle East

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Great OutdOOrs.lOcal custOmschar minG hOspitality.tr aditiOnal cOOkinG

Out of the ordinary tours for everyone

Explore North America2016

Explore North America

c om e e x pl or e w i t h u s.w w w.asiant rails.t ravel

2018 - 2019

ou t of t h e or di na ry

t ou r s f or e v e ryon e

2018 - 2019 - Asian Trails · MYANMAR THAILAND vietnam CAMBODIA MALAYSIA MALAYSIA Luang Prabang 3...

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Transcript of 2018 - 2019 - Asian Trails · MYANMAR THAILAND vietnam CAMBODIA MALAYSIA MALAYSIA Luang Prabang 3...