Inspired By Asia brochure 2016

2 Grove Park Court, Harrogate, North Yorkshire HG1 4DP

Telephone 01423 565111 www.inspiredbyasia.co.uk

ABTA No. Y1862 / V8887

Ask your travel agent for a copy of our Australia and New Zealand brochure

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Best Tour Operator 2014as voted by AITO Independent Travel Agents

T H E B E S T O F T H E FA R E A S T TA I L O R M A D E


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Telephone 01423 565111 • www.inspiredbyasia.co.uk

Brochure designed by Andrew Bogle. Printed by Focus All Media.

ABTA No. Y1862 / V8887

Your contract is with Inspired By Asia, a division of The Curzon Corporation Ltd, a member of ABTA.

1. Your Booking ContractWhen you make a booking you guarantee that you have the authority to accept and do accept on behalf of your party the terms of these booking conditions. A contract will exist as soon as we issue our confi rmation invoice. This contract is made on the terms of these booking conditions, which are governed by English Law, and the jurisdiction of the English Courts. You may however, choose the law and jurisdiction of Scotland or Northern Ireland if you wish to do so.

2. Your Financial ProtectionWe provide full fi nancial protection for our package holidays. When you buy an ATOL protected air holiday package from us you will receive a Confi rmation Invoice and an ATOL Certifi cate from us (or via our authorised agent through which you booked) confi rming your arrangements and your protection under our Air Travel Organiser’s Licence number 2949. In the unlikely event of our insolvency, the CAA will ensure that you are not stranded abroad and will arrange to refund any money you have paid to us for an advance booking. For further information visit the ATOL website at www.atol.org.uk When you buy a package holiday that doesn’t include a fl ight, protection is provided by way of a bond held by ABTA, the Travel Association (ABTA Y1862). If you book arrangements other than a package from this brochure, your monies are protected by way of a bond held by ABTA.

3. ABTAWe are a Member of ABTA, membership number Y1862. We are obliged to maintain a high standard of service to you by ABTA’s Code of Conduct. We can also offer you an arbitration scheme for the resolution of disputes arising out of, or in connection with this contract. The arbitration scheme is arranged by ABTA and administered independently. It provides for a simple and inexpensive method of arbitration on documents alone with restricted liability on you in respect of costs. The scheme does not apply to claims for an amount greater than £5,000 per person. There is also a limit of £25,000 per booking. Neither does it apply to claims which are solely in respect of physical injury or illness or their consequences. The scheme can however deal with compensation claims which include an element of minor injury or illness subject to a limit of £1,500 on the amount the arbitrator can award per person in respect of this element. Your request for arbitration must be received by ABTA within eighteen months of the date of return from holiday. Outside this time limit arbitration under the Scheme may still be available if we agree, but the ABTA Code does not require such agreement. For injury and illness claims, you can request the ABTA Mediation Procedure and we have the option to agree to mediation Further information on the Code and ABTA’s assistance in resolving disputes can be found on www.abta.com

4. Your Booking PriceWe reserve the right to alter the prices shown in the brochure. You will be advised of the current price of the arrangements that you wish to book before your contract is confi rmed. When you make your booking you must pay a deposit of £300 per person or 10 percent of the holiday cost (whichever is the greater). For certain arrangements, especially extended overland tours, higher deposits may be required and you will be notifi ed at the time of booking. The balance of the price of your travel arrangements must be paid at least 10 weeks before your departure date. If the deposit and/or balance is not paid in time, we shall cancel your travel arrangements. If the balance is not paid in time we shall retain your deposit. All monies you pay to the travel agent are held by him on our behalf at all times. Prices in the brochure were calculated using the following exchange rates as at 12 August 2015: THB 55.00, MYR 6.20, USD 1.55, SGD 2.20, HKD 12.00. Changes in transportation costs, including the cost of fuel, dues, taxes or fees chargeable for services such as landing taxes or embarkation or disembarkation fees at ports and airports and exchange rates mean that the price of your travel arrangements may change after you have booked. However there will be no change within 30 days of your departure. We will absorb and you will not be charged for any increase equivalent to 2% of the price of your travel arrangements, which excludes any amendment charges. You will be charged for the amount over and above that. If this means that you have to pay an increase of more than 10% of the price of your travel arrangements, you will have the option of accepting a change to another holiday if we are able to offer one (if this is of equivalent or higher quality you will not have to pay more but if it is of lower quality you will be refunded the difference in price), or cancelling and receiving a full refund of all monies paid, except for any amendment charges. Should you decide to cancel for this reason, you must exercise your right to do so within 14 days from the issue date printed on your fi nal invoice. Should the price of your arrangements go down due to the changes mentioned above, by more than 2% of the total cost, then any refund due will be paid to you. However, please note that travel arrangements are not always purchased in local currency and some apparent changes have no impact on the price of your travel due to contractual and other protection in place.

5. If You Change Your BookingIf, after our confi rmation invoice has been issued, you wish to change your travel arrangements in any way, for example your chosen departure date or accommodation, we will do our utmost to make these changes but it may not always be possible. Any request for changes to be made must be in writing from the person who made the booking or your travel agent. You will be asked to pay an administration charge of £30 per altered item, and any further cost we incur in making this alteration. You should be aware that these costs could increase the closer to the departure date that changes are made and you should contact us as soon as possible. Note: Certain travel arrangements (e.g. (but not limited to) air tickets, accommodation, rail or touring products) may not be changeable after a reservation has been made and any alteration request could incur a cancellation charge of up to 100% of that part of the arrangements.

6. If You Cancel Your BookingYou, or any member of your party, may cancel your travel arrangements at any time. Written notifi cation from the person who made the booking or your travel agent on your behalf must be received at our offi ces. Since we incur costs in cancelling your travel arrangements, you will have to pay the applicable cancellation charges up to the maximum shown in clause 7. Note: if the reason for your cancellation is covered under the terms of your insurance policy, you may be able to reclaim these charges.

7. If We Change or Cancel Your BookingIt is unlikely that we will have to make any changes to your travel arrangements, but we do plan the arrangements many months in advance. Occasionally, we may have to make changes and we reserve the right to do so at any time. Most of these changes will be minor and we will advise you or your travel agent of them at the earliest possible date. We also reserve the right in any circumstances to cancel your travel arrangements. For example, if the minimum number of clients required for a particular travel arrangement is not reached, we may have to cancel it. However, we will not cancel your travel arrangements less than 10 weeks before your departure date, except for reasons of force majeure or failure by you to pay the fi nal balance. If we are unable to provide the booked travel arrangements, you can either have a refund of all monies paid or accept an offer of alternative travel arrangements of comparable standard from us, if available (we will refund any price difference if the alternative is of a lower value). If it is necessary to

cancel your travel arrangements, we will pay to you compensation as set out in this clause. Any changes to the actual airline after you have received your tickets will be notifi ed to you as soon as possible and in all cases at check-in or at the boarding gate. Such a change is deemed to be a minor change. Other examples of minor changes include alteration of your outward/return fl ights by less than 12 hours, changes to aircraft type, change of accommodation to another of the same standard. If we make a major change to your booking, we will inform you or your travel agent as soon as reasonably possible if there is time before your departure. You will have the choice of either accepting the change of arrangements, accepting an offer of alternative travel arrangements of comparable standard from us if available (we will refund any price difference if the alternative is of a lower value), or cancelling your booking and receiving a full refund of all monies paid. In all cases, except where the major change arises due to reasons of force majeure, we will pay compensation as detailed below:*

Period before departure within which notice of Cancellation or major change is received by us or notifi ed to you

IF WE MAKE A MAJOR CHANGE TO YOUR HOLIDAYAmount you will receive from us

IF WE CANCELYOUR HOLIDAY

Amount you will receive from us

IF YOU CANCELYOUR HOLIDAY

MAXIMUM amount ofcancellation charge*

More than 56 days56-43 days42-41 days30-0 days

Nil£20£30£50

Deposit onlyMonies paid + £20Monies paid + £30Monies paid + £50

Deposit only50% of holiday cost75% of holiday cost100% of holiday cost

The compensation that we offer does not exclude you from claiming more if you are entitled to do so.

*In some circumstances higher cancellation fees may be applied by certain product suppliers e.g. (but not limited to) airlines, accommodation, rail or touring products. Should this be the case you will be notifi ed of such fees before confi rming your booking and these will apply in the event of a cancellation. These fees may be any amount up to 100% of the value of the product or booking value.

Force Majeure: This means that we will not pay you compensation if we have to cancel or change your travel arrangements in any way because of unusual or unforeseeable circumstances beyond our control. These can include, for example, war, riot, industrial dispute, terrorist activity and its consequences, natural or nuclear disaster, fi re,

adverse weather conditions, epidemics and pandemics, unavoidable technical problems with transport. In accordance with EU Regulation 2111/2005 we are required to advise you of the actual carrier operating your fl ights.

8. If You Have A ComplaintIf you have a problem or any cause for complaint with your travel arrangements, please report it immediately directly to the supplier (e.g. the hotel manager), and as soon as possible bring it to the attention of our local representative / agent. They will try to rectify the problem at the time. If no representative/agent is available, or if they are unable to resolve the matter to your satisfaction, please refer to your travel documents for our contact details. If your complaint cannot be resolved locally having reported it, you must inform our representative/agent in writing whilst overseas and follow this up in writing to us within 28 days of your return home. If you fail to follow this procedure, we cannot accept responsibility for any problem or complaint that could have been rectifi ed there and then had you notifi ed us, the supplier or our representative/agent at the time. For all problems or complaints, failure to comply with this procedure may mean that your right to claim any compensation you may otherwise have been entitled to may be affected or lost as a result.

9. Our Liability to YouIf the contract we have with you is not performed or is improperly performed by us or our suppliers we will pay you appropriate compensation if this has affected the enjoyment of your travel arrangements. However we will not be liable where any failure in the performance of the contract is due to: you; or a third party unconnected with the provision of the travel arrangements and where the failure is unforeseeable or unavoidable; or unusual and unforeseeable circumstances beyond our control, the consequences of which could not have been avoided even if all due care had been exercised; or an event which we or our suppliers, even with all due care, could not foresee or forestall. Inspired by Asia does not accept any liability for any services or facilities which your hotel or any other supplier agrees to provide for you where the services or facilities are not advertised in our brochure and we have not agreed to arrange them. Excursions or other tours that you may choose to book or pay for whilst you are on holiday are not part of your package holiday provided by us. For any excursion or other tour that you book, your contract will be with the operator of the excursion or tour and not with us. We are not responsible for the provision of the excursion or tour or for anything that happens during the course of its provision by the operator. Our liability, except in cases involving death, injury or illness, shall be limited to a maximum of two times the cost of your travel arrangements. Our liability will also be limited in accordance with and/or in an identical manner with any relevant international convention. You can ask for copies of the transport companies’ contractual terms, or the international conventions, from our offi ces in Harrogate. Under EU law (Regulation 261/2004) you have rights in some circumstances to refunds and/or compensation from your airline in cases of denied boarding, cancellation or delay to fl ights. Full details of these rights will be publicised at EU airports and will also be available from airlines. Your right to a refund and/or compensation from us is set out in clause 7. If any payments to you are due from us, any payment made to you by the airline will be deducted from this amount. If your airline does not comply with these rules you should complain to the Air Transport Users’ Council on 020 7240 6061 www.auc.org.uk

10. Prompt Assistance OverseasIf the contract we have with you is not performed or is improperly performed as a result of failures attributable to a third party unconnected with the provision of the services, or as a result of failures due to unusual and unforeseeable circumstances beyond our control, the consequences of which could not have been avoided even if all due care had been exercised, or an event which we or our suppliers, even with all due care, could not foresee or forestall, and you suffer an injury or other material loss, we will offer you such prompt assistance as is reasonable in the circumstances. This brochure is our responsibility, as your tour operator. It is not issued on behalf of, and does not commit the airlines mentioned herein or any airline whose services are used in the course of your travel arrangements. Please note that in accordance with Air Navigation Orders in order to qualify for infant status, a child must be under 2 years of age on the date of its return fl ight.

Published August 2015. Prices valid from January 2016. Booking conditions valid from 1 September 2015.Registered Offi ce Milton House, 33a Milton Road, Hampton, Middlesex TW12 2LL.

BOOKING CONDITIONS

Your Financial Protection When you buy an ATOL protected fl ight or fl ight inclusive holiday from us you will receive an ATOL Certifi cate. This lists what is fi nancially protected, where you can get information on what this means for you and who to contact if things go wrong.



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3INSPIRED BY ASIA

CONTENTS INTRODUCTION 4 About Inspired by Asia

5 Using the brochure

6 Map of the Far East

7 Your choice of Airlines

8 Best for . . .

9 When to Go

10 THAILAND 13 About Thailand

14 Getting married in Thailand

15 Eastern and Oriental Express rail

16 Bangkok

19 River Kwai Tour

20 Chiang Mai & Northern Thailand

22 The Golden Triangle

23 Northern Thailand In Style Tour

24 Lanna Discovery Tour

26 Hua Hin

30 Koh Samui & Koh Phangan

36 Phuket

40 Khao Lak

44 Khao Sok

49 Phi Phi Islands

46 Krabi

50 Koh Samet

51 Koh Lanta

52 Koh Yao Noi

53 Khanom

54 MALAYSIA 57 About Malaysia

58 Kuala Lumpur

60 Best of Malaysia in Style Tour

61 Beyond Kuala Lumpur

62 Penang

64 Langkawi

68 Pangkor Laut

69 East Coast Malaysia

70 Borneo

74 Borneo Tours

76 BALI 79 About Bali

80 Bali

84 Ubud

86 Best of Bali Tour

87 Lombok & Gili Island

88 INDOCHINA 91 About Indochina

93 Best of Indochina Tour

94 Best of Vietnam Tour

95 Best of Vietnam & Cambodia Tour

96 Halong Bay Overnight Cruises

98 Sapa Tour

100 Hanoi

102 Hoi An, Hue and Danang

105 Hoi An Day Tours

106 Nha Trang and Phan Thiet

108 Saigon

110 Mekong Delta

112 Phu Quoc Island

114 Angkor Wat & Phnom Penh

116 BURMA 119 About Burma

120 Best of Burma Tour

122 Burma hotels

124 Burma Cruises

126 CHINA 129 About China

130 Highlights of China Tour

131 Yangtze & Beyond Tour

132 Hong Kong

134 SINGAPORE

136 JAPAN

137 Highlights of Japan Tour

138 Visa Requirements

139 Booking Conditions

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4 inspiredbyasia.co.uk

FIVE GOOD REASONS TO CHOOSE INSPIRED BY ASIA

We are real experts in Far East holidaysWhen it comes to choosing and planning your Far East holiday, you need to deal with people who know the destination inside out. At Inspired by Asia we have the in-depth expertise that makes all the difference. Our team has travelled ex-tensively throughout the region to ensure you can receive first-hand advice, suggestions and tips from those who really have “been there and done that.”

We are proud to be the winner of Best Tour Operator 2014 as voted by AITO Travel Agents.

We can tailor-make your holiday exactly to suit youOur brochure contains a wealth of possibilities, but don’t feel you need to limit your choice to what we feature, because everything is flexible - that’s the beauty of our tailor-made service. Simply tell us where you’d like to go, and what you’d like to do, and we’ll make it happen. Alternatively, if you can’t decide or if you’d like us to help you out with ideas and inspiration - then we’ll be happy to oblige.

We’ll offer support throughout your holidayOur service doesn’t end once you’ve left for your holiday, because we’ll be there for you,

if we’re needed, throughout your stay. Should anything go wrong, you’ll have the peace of mind

to know that we’ll be rapidly contactable, via our local representative or via your travel agent, to put things right.

We can organise all your flightsAll of our holidays begin and end with a flight. So it’s vital that all the arrangements work and that the airline matches or exceeds your expectations. Inspired by Asia only work with quality scheduled airlines with a proven record in customer satisfaction and the flexibility to cope with complex or unusual itineraries.

We are fully bonded to give you peace of mindYou can rest assured that the air holidays and flights in this brochure are ATOL protected by the Civil Aviation Authority under ATOL 2949, and for holidays which do not include air travel, your financial protection is administered by ABTA number Y1862/V8887.

Your Financial Protection

When you buy an ATOL protected flight or flight inclusive holiday from us you will receive an ATOL Certificate.

This lists what is financially protected, where you can get information on what this means for you and who to contact if things go wrong.

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5INSPIRED BY ASIA

USING YOUR INSPIRED BY ASIA BROCHURE

Hotel ratings

Each country has its own

method for rating a hotel,

making it difficult to

provide a consistent

classification.

Therefore we

have rated the

hotels ourselves.

This is based on

our personal hotel

inspections and the

advice of our locally-

based representatives. We have only chosen

what we consider to be four and five star

properties, ranging from hotels that can be

described as good value for money with

superior standards, to world-class, luxurious

resorts of the highest quality.

Hotel refurbishments and renovations

Every hotel will, from time to time, have

to take steps to maintain its rooms and

facilities. We will do our utmost to bring

any such work due to take place, to your

attention, as soon as we are notified.

Hotel special offers

The Far East is a great region for a special

offer. During low and shoulder seasons we

have negotiated some exciting deals, such

as free nights and free room upgrades, with

many shown throughout this brochure. We

receive new offers during the year; see our

website www.inspiredbyasia.co.uk for the

very latest.

Special requests

If you have dietary requirements, a disability

we need to be aware of, or simply have a

preference such as a low-floor room, please

let us know at the time of booking. We will

pass on your requirements to the relevant

hotels and tour companies.

Passports, visas and health

Most destinations require that you have

at least six months remaining on your full

passport and, if required a visa. For visas

we recommend the Travel Visa Company.

Call 01270 250 590 or visit their website at:

www.thetravelvisacompany.co.uk

For vaccination requirements or

recommendations please contact your

doctor. It is your responsibility to satisfy

these requirements.

Weddings and honeymoons

We can arrange your wedding in the Far

East. There are some superb locations

and resorts to choose from. Using the

hotel’s own wedding planner and our local

representative, we can check every detail to

make it a perfect event. Most of the hotels

featured have honeymoon offers, too many

to list here. Please call us for further details.

Flights

Prices in this brochure do not include

flights, unless specifically stated in the

inclusions of some touring products.

We are specialists in organising flights to

fit in with tailor-made itineraries and can

secure some exceptional deals with many

of the leading carriers to the Far East. While

many people these days prefer to book their

own flights online, we do warn clients that

tickets bought this way can be inflexible if

you need to make changes. Booking your

flights through Inspired by Asia is likely

to prove a cheaper and far more flexible

option.

Airport transfers

Where possible, we have provided private

transfers for you. This means that when you

arrive at the airport you will be met by our

local representative and transferred directly

to your accommodation.

Insurance

It is essential that you have adequate travel

insurance, and we strongly recommend that

you arrange this with your travel agent, at

the time of booking.

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7INSPIRED BY ASIA

YOUR CHOICE OF AIRLINES

Celebrating over 50 years of service, Thai Airways International operates a

daily direct service from London Heathrow to Bangkok on its state-of-the-

art flagship A380 aircraft, with convenient con-

nections from Bangkok to over 70 destinations

worldwide - including over 10 in Thailand.

Malaysia Airlines, the national carrier of Malaysia, is recognised as

one of Asia’s largest, flying more than 50,000 passengers to some 100

destinations across 6 continents every day. It currently offers 14 weekly

direct flights between the United Kingdom

and Malaysia linking London with the

Malaysian capital, Kuala Lumpur.

Vietnam Airlines offer non-stop flights from London Heathrow to both Ho Chi

Minh City and Hanoi with onward connections in Indochina & South East

Asia. Reducing journey times to Vietnam by as much as seven hours, the

direct service brings one of Asia’s most inspiring countries closer than ever.

The airline operates a 787-9 series aircraft offering

Economy, Economy Deluxe and Business Class.

Award-winning Emirates is one of the fastest grow-

ing airlines in the world. Emirates operates 17 daily

flights from 6 UK airports; London Heathrow, London

Gatwick, Manchester, Newcastle, Birmingham, and

Glasgow. With such an extensive network, it’s easy to

combine Dubai with a host of other destinations around

the world for an unforgettable travel experience.

Singapore Airlines has evolved into one of the most

respected travel brands around the world. They have

one of the world’s youngest fleet in the air and a network

spanning five continents. With 4 non-stop flights daily

from London Heathrow and a daily flight from Manchester

with easy connections at Singapore’s Changi airport,

Singapore Airlines takes you to the heart of the Far East.

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BEST FOR . . .INSPIRED BY ASIA RECOMMENDS

• Thong Nai Pan Noi Beach, Koh Phangan,

Thailand - page 35

• Pansea Beach, Phuket, Thailand - page 38

• Tanjong Jara Beach, Malaysia, - page 69

• Datai Bay, Langkawi, Malaysia - page 65

• Ngapali Beach, Ngapali, Burma - page 122

• Tower Club at Lebua, Bangkok, Thailand

- page 17

• Harbour Grand Kowloon, Hong Kong -

page 133

• Traders Hotel Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia -

page 59

• Renaissance Riverside Hotel, Saigon,

Vietnam - page 109

• Shangri-La Hotel, Bangkok - page 17

• The Andaman Langkawi, Malaysia - page 66

• Shangri-La Rasa Ria Resort & Spa,

Borneo, Malaysia - page 71

• Elephant Hills, Khao Sok, Thailand - page 45

• Cape Panwa Hotel, Phuket, Thailand -

page 39

• Conrad Bali Resort & Spa, Bali - page 83

• Danum Valley Tour, Borneo, Malaysia -

page 74

• Jungle Lake Safari, Khao Sok, Thailand -

page 45

• The Best of Burma Tour - page 120

• The Best of Indochina Tour - page 93

• The Best of Bali Tour - page 86

• Fusion Maia, Danang, Vietnam - page 104

• Spa Village Tombok, Bali - page 80

• Pangkor Laut, Malaysia - page 68

• The Sarojin, Khao Lak, Thailand - page 41

• Sala Samui, Koh Samui, Thailand - page 31

• Borneo Rainforest Lodge, Borneo,

Malaysia - page 73

• Aava Resort & Spa, Khanom Thailand -

page 53

• Taman Negara Resort, Mutiara Taman

Negara, Malaysia - page 61

• Elephant Hills, Khao Sok, Thailand - page 45

• Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp & Resort, Thailand - page 22

You have a wonderful choice of hotels and tours throughout the Far East. To make it easier, we have put together our top choices in a variety of categories.

BEST for BEACHES

BEST for CITY VIEWS

BEST for FAMILIES

BEST for ADVENTURE

BEST for SPA TREATMENTS

BEST for WLDLIFE

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9INSPIRED BY ASIA

WHEN TO GO

The west coast (Phuket/Khao Lak/Krabi):

November - February.

The Gulf of Thailand (Koh Samui/Koh

Phangan/Hua Hin/Koh Samet): December -

August.

The north (Chiang Mai/Chiang Rai):

November - March.

Bangkok December - April.

May - September

April - May and September - October

The west coast (Langkawi/Penang):

December - April.

The east coast (Kuala Terengganu): May -

October.

Borneo (Sabah): March-October - but very

little difference year round.

Kuala Lumpur December - February and

May - August.

November - April

February - October

North Vietnam (Hanoi/Halong Bay):

February - April.

Central Vietnam (Hue/Danang/Hoi An/Nha

Trang): March - August.

Southern Vietnam (Saigon/Mekong Delta/

Phu Quoc): December - April.

Cambodia October - April.

Laos October - April.

November - February

October - May

Weather conditions vary throughout the Far East. Here we have given our recommendations for the best time to visit for an enjoyable stay.

THAILAND

BALI

CHINA

MALAYSIA

BURMA

SINGAPORE

INDOCHINA

HONG KONG

JAPAN

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10

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11

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12 inspiredbyasia.co.ukTHAILAND

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13INSPIRED BY ASIA THAILAND

THAILANDThailand is an enchanting country with a rich cultural tradition, where the people

are warm and friendly and the scenery is often breathtaking. This is a land of

ancient temples, tantalising cuisine, pristine beaches and tropical rainforests.

From elephant camps to world class resorts, Thailand has something for everyone.

Getting there There are over 30 direct flights weekly from the UK to Thailand, including Thai Airways, EVA Air and British Airways. There are also many indirect flights via Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Doha, Kuala Lumpur and Singapore. The flying time is generally around 12 hours.

Guide to the country Almost all visitors will include a stop in Bangkok, at the start or end of their Thailand holiday, and for good reason. Bangkok is an exciting city of bustling streets and markets, historic sights such as the Grand Palace. Five hundred miles to the north lies Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai and the beautiful mountain scenery of Northern Thailand, linked with so much history. The sandy beaches of Pattaya and Hua Hin continue to increase in popularity, as road links with Bangkok improve making them easier to reach. The islands of Thailand have always been popular, with dramatic views and great beaches. Choose from a superb range of islands, from established ones such as Phuket and Koh Samui to some newly discovered paradises such as Koh Phangan. Krabi features the rocky outcrop scenery seen in so many films, and the quiet but tranquil Khao Lak, just north of Phuket continues to delight visitors.

When to go Most visitors arrive during Thailand’s dry season, from November through February. The weather during this period is pleasantly warm and sunny, though airline and hotel prices reflect this and are higher than at other times of the year. April and May are usually the hottest months (though Thailand is never cold at any time during the year) when temperatures will be in the low to mid 30°C. May to October is generally considered to be low season as rainfall is high, though there is always sunshine between the downpours. Bear in mind that Thailand’s two most popular resorts, Phuket and Koh Samui, have differing rainy seasons. The best time to go to Phuket (in the west) is from November to March, while Koh Samui (in the Gulf of Thailand), is at its best during June to September.

Important to note British passport holders don’t need a visa

unless staying for more than 30 days and the passport has at least six months validity. Thailand is 7 hours ahead of GMT. The currency is Thai Baht. Vaccinations are only a requirement if you are travelling close to the border of Burma, or if you are exploring deep into the jungle. For full details of vaccination requirements contact your doctor.

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GETTING MARRIED & HONEYMOONS IN THAILAND

Thailand offers a rich and varied

culture and many beautiful

locations for a wedding.

Getting married in Thailand can

be a wonderful thing, especially

when you have the authorities

on your side. Inspired by Asia in

conjunction with Asia World will

help to arrange all legal matters

and administrative details for

clients of any nationality who

wish to get married in Thailand.

By staying a few working days

in Bangkok, you can ensure

that all legal procedures are

covered. Asia World will help you

prepare all the documentation

prior to your arrival, and until

the wedding procedures are

finalised and legalised. Once

married we can arrange your

wedding celebration in most

Thai beach locations.

Prior to Arrival You will need to complete the typed Affidavit

Form and prepare all required original

documents. Clients are required to send their

completed Affidavit Form to Inspired by Asia

for review before arrival.

Bangkok itinerary

You will need to have at least 3 working days

in Bangkok. We recommend the Dusit Thani

or The Banyan Tree as ideal locations during

your stay as they are relatively close to the

offices you need to visit. See pages 17-18 for

details and prices. Ideally you should stay for

4 nights.

Day 1 At 8am you will be met in the lobby

of your hotel and transferred to the British

Embassy to sign the Affirmation Form.

Day 2 At 8am you will be picked up at your

hotel and transferred to the British Embassy

to collect your passports and Affirmation

Form. A nearby certified translation office

will translate the Affirmation Form into Thai,

then you will be transferred to the Thai

Ministry of Foreign Affairs to authenticate the

documents. You will register the marriage at

the Thai District Office and wait for the Sworn

& Unite documents from the British Embassy.

Day 3 Asia World will pick up the Sworn &

Unite documents and deliver this and all

other documents to your hotel.

Documents Required

1. Original passports

2. Original Divorce Certificate or Death

Certificate of former spouse (Only for a

Divorcee or Widow/ Widower)

3. Completed, typed Affidavit Form (to be

signed at the British Embassy)

Price from £440 per person.

Wedding celebrationOnce you are married we can arrange

the wedding service. We have a range of

outstanding beachside hotels that can host

your wedding. They all offer a variety of

packages and can perform the service as

a Western ceremony or a Thai ceremony.

A typical wedding package includes the

following (prices are approximately £2000 per

couple but vary depending on your choice of

hotel. Price excludes accommodation):

• Your personal wedding planner including

consultation and pre-wedding meeting

prior to the wedding date

• Wedding Celebrant

• Pre-consultation with your Wedding

Celebrant prior to the wedding day

• Secluded Beach for the Wedding

Ceremony

• Decoration of the secluded wedding

beach with tropical flowers, floral arch,

walking aisle and accessories

• Bouquet for the bride with your own

choice of local seasonal flowers

• Buttonhole for the groom

• Sparkling wine for the Bride & Groom for

toasting

• Decorated flower tray for the wedding rings

• The planting of a baby coconut tree

ceremony

• In-room honeymoon floral decoration after

your wedding

• A bottle of sparkling wine served in your

room on the night of your wedding

• Hair/make up service

• Photographer

HoneymoonsInspired by Asia can arrange your ideal

honeymoon from 5 nights to 15 nights

in a superb range of hotels that offer

idyllic locations.

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EASTERN & ORIENTAL EXPRESS RAIL JOURNEYS

Enjoy a panoramic view of the

mystical landscapes of Thailand,

Singapore and Malaysia aboard

the majesty and splendour of

the Eastern & Oriental Express

train. With its comfortable

and elegant cabins, delicious

cuisine and superb service,

this is a truly unique way to

experience the full wonder of

this remarkable region. Prices

include a luxury air-conditioned

cabin with en suite facilities, all

table d’hôte meals on board and

sightseeing tours.

Dates of departure on request.

3 DAY BANGKOK - CHIANG MAI - BANGKOK This two-night experience departs from

and returns to Bangkok. It takes you to the

northern Thailand cities of Lampang and

Chiang Mai, steeped in history and culture.

Day 1 Depart from Bangkok and settle into

your private cabin as the train rolls through

the countryside. Dress up for dinner as the

sun sets, sitting down to a decadent menu

showcasing local specialities. Afterwards,

head to the Bar Car and relax with fellow

travellers before retiring to your elegant

converted cabin.

Day 2 Arrive in Lampang early morning,

taking a traditional horse-drawn carriage to

Ban Sao Nak, the House of Many Pillars.

Brunch is served on the train before

continuing to Chiang Mai, where you will

have a choice of excursions. Full details of

available tours will be presented to you on

board. After an afternoon of sightseeing,

return to the train for an indulgent dinner

and an evening at your leisure.

Day 3 After breakfast, depart the train

at Bangkok for your onward travel

arrangements.

Prices from £1580 per person, based on a

twin-share cabin.

4 DAY BANGKOK - SINGAPORE The two contrasting cities of Singapore and

Bangkok symbolise the excitement and

diversity of Asian metropolitan life. The

ultimate way to discover these iconic cities is

to journey between them aboard the Eastern

& Oriental Express, through gently unfolding

rural landscapes, past temples, tea

plantations, colonial cities, ancient villages

and historic monuments.

Day 1 Depart from Bangkok and settle into

your private cabin as the train rolls through

Bangkok City to countryside. Dinner is

served in one of the luxurious dining cars.

Afterwards, head to the Bar Car to relax

with fellow travellers or retire to your cosy

converted cabin.

Day 2 After breakfast, disembark at the

River Kwai Bridge station for a leisurely

cruise along the river guided by a local

historian. Later in the morning, join a visit

to an evocative war museum and optional

war cemetery. Return to the train and look

forward to an exceptional lunch and dinner.

Day 3 Spend the morning watching the

changing scenery with breakfast in bed

as the train travels through Malaysia. After

brunch, disembark at the Butterworth

station and cross to Penang Island, exploring

its pre-World War II mosques, temples,

churches, bazaars and shophouses.

Rejoin the train for a refreshing cocktail

accompanied by live piano music before a

glamorous final dinner on board.

Day 4 Arrive in Singapore for your onward

travel arrangements.

Prices from £1640 per person, based on a

twin-share cabin.

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BANGKOK

Travel Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi

Airport is served by numerous

International airlines. The

airport is 16 miles from the city,

with a journey time of between

45-60 minutes, depending on

the time of day. We can arrange

for you to be met on arrival at

the airport and a private car

transfer to your hotel from £23

per person.

Bangkok is notorious for traffi c

gridlock so we recommend

visitors utilise the Skyrail

monorail. The more adventurous

can sample a ‘tuk-tuk’, the three

wheeled street cab, but always

agree the fare fi rst.

Attractions No visitor should

miss a visit to the Grand Palace

and the Temple of the Emerald

Buddha, or a trip on the klongs

(canals) and fl oating market.

Dinner on an outside deck of a

cruise on the Chao Phraya River

is a relaxing way to see the city

skyline and riverside activity.

Further afi eld we offer tours to

the infamous River Kwai and

historic ancient city of Ayuthaya.

When to go Bangkok is hot all

year round with temperatures

averaging around 30-35°C. The

best time to visit is between

December and January when

it’s slightly cooler and drier.

The wet season is from May

to October, coinciding with the

hottest time of the year.

Bangkok is like no other city in the world,

a discovery for even the most seasoned

of travellers. Ancient golden temples,

mystical pagodas, saffron-robed monks,

towering skyscrapers and bustling open-

air markets. You can explore the city

sights by river bus or tuk-tuk, browse

for bargains at the local markets, marvel

at the Grand Palace and sample the

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BANYAN TREE BANGKOK

One of the tallest luxury spa hotels in the city, The Banyan Tree Bangkok

is just a 40-minute drive from the airport. The hotel enjoys a central

position within the central business and embassy district, but with easy

access to the shopping and entertainment area of Silom Road. Facilities

include a gym, spa, yoga sessions, health club and pool. Wide range of

bars and restaurants with perhaps the most spectacular being the awe-

inspiring views from Virtigo and Moon Bar, 61 storeys above ground.

Offer Receive up to a 15% earlybird discount. Conditions apply.

Prices from £75 per person per night, including breakfast daily.

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ANANTARA BANGKOK RIVERSIDE RESORT

With its classical Thai architecture, lush gardens and cool river breezes

the Anantara Bangkok Riverside Resort & Spa offers all the tranquility of

a resort. Take the free shuttle boat to the Skytrain station for access to

the city and night market. Rooms offer great garden or river views from a

private balcony. Facilities include a wide choice of restaurants and bars,

an outdoor swimming pool, jacuzzi, sauna, tennis, fi tness centre and

spa. Free smart phone use in every room.

Offer Receive up to 20% off early bird deal. Offer dates vary.

Prices from £53 per person per night, based on room only.

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BANGKOK Hotels

TOWER CLUB AT LEBUA SHANGRI-LA HOTEL BANGKOK

Tower Club at Lebua offers breathtaking views of Bangkok from suites on

the 51st to 59th fl oors. Non-alcoholic minibar, Nespresso machine, and

bathroom amenities, are all complimentary, as is access to the Tower

Club Lounge with its continental breakfast, light luncheons, high tea,

canapés and alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages until 6pm. Choose

from one, two and three bedroom luxury suites. Facilities include a

rooftop bar and choice of restaurants, fi tness centre and pool.

Offer Receive up to a 15% discount when booked in advance. Dates vary.


With lush gardens and sweeping river views, the Shangri-La Hotel

Bangkok offers an elegant and exotic location on the banks of the Chao

Phraya River. This award-winning hotel, consistently voted as one of the

best in the world, has recently undergone an extensive renovation to

maintain its high standards. For accommodation there is a choice of two

wings including the exclusive Krungthep Wing. Facilities include CHI, the

spa, outdoor pool, gym, sauna, 3 bars, dinner cruise and 4 restaurants.

Offer Receive free breakfast when staying 3 nights. Dates vary.


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ORIENTAL RESIDENCE BANGKOK

ROYAL ORCHID SHERATON HOTEL & TOWERS

Commanding a prime position on Wireless Road in the heart of

Bangkok’s shopping and embassy district, the Oriental Residence

Bangkok epitomises casual elegance and traditional luxury. Airy and

elegant accommodation includes a choice of hotel rooms, one, two and

three bedroom suites, all with fully equipped kitchens and superb city

and park views. Some suites have balconies. Facilities include a bar, a

boutique-style café, gym, outdoor pool and a kids pool.

Offer Receive up to a 15% discount when booking in advance. Dates vary.


Located on the famous Chao Phraya River with unrivaled views, the

Royal Orchid Sheraton is only a boat ride away from prime shopping

areas, business district and the famed historical attractions. With 726

panoramic river view rooms, enjoy fi ve-star family friendly amenities

including a choice of two swimming pools surrounded by a tropical

garden, a luxurious spa and 5 superb restaurants.

Offer Receive a 15% discount when booking in advance. Offer dates vary.


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BANGKOK Hotels

DUSIT THANI BANGKOK

REMBRANDT HOTEL BANGKOK

Dusit Thani Bangkok has been a landmark for over 40 years, offering

guests world-class service with gracious Thai hospitality. Dusit Thani

Bangkok offers unrivalled value, with its combination of well-designed

facilities (including a large outdoor pool) in a convenient central location.

With both the BTS Skytrain and MRT underground public transportation

services right at its doorstep, the city’s business, shopping and

entertainment districts are all just moments away.

Offer Receive 3 nights for the price of 2 nights in low season.


The Rembrandt Hotel Bangkok is a modern stylish hotel centrally located

in the Sukhumvit area of Bangkok, ten minutes away from the Asoke

Sky Train and Sukhumvit Underground (MRT) stations. Facilities include

a spa, a fully equipped Fitness Centre, Pool Bar, and international

standard restaurants. Superior rooms are located on the lower fl oors,

Deluxe rooms on the higher fl oors and Executive rooms on the top fl oors.

Family rooms feature a King double bed and bunk beds for the children.

Offer Receive 4 nights for the price of 3. Offer dates vary call for details.


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RIVER KWAI & ELEPHANTS TOUR 3 Day Small Group Tour

Savour the historic sights of the

River Kwai region on this three

day small group tour with an

English speaking guide. The

scenery is impressive: jungle-

covered hills, spectacular gorges

and beautiful river views. Enjoy an

Elephant ride through a bamboo

forest and a stay in a floating

villa with a choice of budget

or luxurious accommodation.

Departs daily from Bangkok.

Includes• 2 nights accommodation• Air-conditioned vehicle• Touring as shown• All meals• Entrance fees• Pick up / drop off at your Bangkok hotel

Day 1 Bangkok to Kanchanaburi Early morning

start at your Bangkok hotel with an 0600 hrs

pick up (note: you can leave your luggage

stored at your Bangkok hotel while on the tour

and just take a small bag). Then the drive west

to the Kanchanaburi region. Journey times

varies according to the traffic but generally

around 3 hours. Visit the Thailand-Burma

Railway Centre; an interactive museum and

research facility dedicated to presenting the

history of the Thailand-Burma Railway. Visit

the Allied War Cemetery which is a memorial

to some 6,000 allied prisoners of war who

perished along the death railway line. See

the world famous Bridge over the River Kwai.

Then enjoy a long-tailed boat journey through

unspoilt mountainous jungle scenery to your

chosen accommodation. After lunch take a

boat ride to the Resotel Pier and continue your

tour with a visit to the Hellfire Pass Memorial.

Return to your choice of accommodation for

some rest and relaxation. Dinner is served

followed by a 45-minute presentation of

traditional Mon Dances.

Day 2 Mon Tribal Village visit & elephant ride Morning at leisure. Swim in the river, use the

provided canoes or just relax and enjoy the

spectacular scenery. After lunch visit a Mon

Tribal Village before enjoying a guided elephant

ride (optional) through the bamboo forest.

Return to your hotel for late afternoon at leisure

before dinner.

Day 3 Kanchanaburi to Bangkok Breakfast

and morning at leisure before checking out

at 1100 hrs and proceed to lunch at a local

restaurant. Take a historic ride on the Death

Railway Train through lush forest, passing over

the original wooden viaduct constructed by

Allied prisoners of war. Then return to Bangkok

by air-conditioned vehicle, arriving back at your

hotel at approximately 1800 hrs.

Choice of Accommodation

River Kwai Jungle Rafts Hotel (above)

Basic and rustic close-to-nature floating

bamboo raft room with natural cooling from

the river underneath the raft. There’s no use

of electricity here and room is lit by a lantern.

Includes a private bathroom and terrace. The

Jungle Restaurant offers all day dining and

Jungle bar for drinks.

The Float House River Kwai (top, left)

Luxurious boutique floating villas on a

magnificent stretch of the River Kwai. The

elegant and spacious villas feature a rain

shower, a private terrace with sun lounger and

a swing chair. The floating restaurant and bar

offers all day dining and drinks.

Prices Budget option (Jungle Rafts) from £189

per person, based on twin-share. Luxury option

(The Float House) from £299 per person,

based on twin-share.

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CHIANG MAI & NORTHERN THAILAND

Travel Chiang Mai and Chiang

Rai airports are served by

regular scheduled services from

Bangkok with a fl ying time of

70 minutes and 85 minutes

respectively. Both airports are

a 20 minute transfer to the

cities. For the Anantara Golden

Triangle allow an hour for the

transfer.

Attractions Wat Phra Trat

Doi Suthep is Chiang Mai’s

most important landmark and

overlooks the city from its

forested mountain backdrop.

Close to both cities are hill tribe

villages. An elephant-back ride

through the lush jungle is a

pleasant way to experience the

spectacular scenery.

When to go Northern Thailand

is warm all year round but the

coolest period is November

to February - temperatures

are a maximum of 25°C, with

an occasional chill in the

mornings. Temperatures rise

to a maximum of 40°C during

the hottest period from March

to June and some visitors may

fi nd this period too hot. The

wet season lasts from July to

October. Downpours and high

humidity occur. Rainfall is

unpredictable so a few dry days

can be followed by a few wet

days. Temperatures at this time

average 30°C.

Chiang Mai is located over 400 miles to

the north of Bangkok and set amongst

the highest mountains in the country,

offering superb views. This culturally

signifi cant city features historic temples,

markets and an interesting old walled

town. Further north is Chiang Rai and the

Golden Triangle. An area home to several

hill tribes with fascinating ways of life.

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CHIANG MAI Hotels

RACHAMANKHA

KANTARY HILLS HOTEL

ANANTARA CHIANG MAI RESORT & SPA

TAMARIND VILLAGE CHIANG MAI

Perfectly located in the centre of the ancient city of Chiang Mai,

Rachamankha, is renowned for its incredible architecture and its

peaceful and private atmosphere. Just 22 rooms and 2 suites set in 2

acres of manicured gardens the architecture pays homage to the Lanna

period, offering guests a unique place to stay. The property is more a

work of art than a hotel and features the owners collection of Asian art.

Restaurant, bar, library, massage spa and a superb 20 metre pool.

Offer Honeymooners receive a free bottle of wine for 2 night stays.


This stunning hotel and apartment property, located a short drive from

the centre of Chiang Mai, offers the luxury of a fi ve star hotel at four star

prices. Featuring stylish and spacious studio, one and two bedroom

suites with kitchen facilities. Parties of 3 or more will appreciate the

benefi t of a one or two bedroom apartment with separate living space.

Facilities include a swimming pool, sauna, whirlpool, executive lounge,

restaurant, bar and coffee shop.

Offer Receive 3 nights for the price of 2 during low season.


Superbly located on the banks of the renowned Mae Ping River each of

the resort’s 84 rooms and suites offers a contemporary-Asian design and

boasts private courtyards, open balconies and breathtaking views of the

gardens and river. Facilities include a restaurant set within a split-level

Colonial house offering riverside dining, a choice of bars, a swimming

pool, fi tness centre, yoga/aerobics rooms and a spa. The Anantara

Chiang Mai offers an elegant retreat in the heart of an historical city.

Offer Earlybird discounts apply. Offer dates vary, call for details.


Tamarind Village is a unique and charming boutique property in the

heart of historic Chiang Mai. Set amid ancient temples and quaint

shopping streets, it takes its name from a magnifi cent 200 years old

tamarind tree that shelters the hotel. The 42 guest rooms and 3 suites

are set around a series of garden courtyards, echoing the ethnic

diversity of North Thailand. Facilities include an outdoor pool, a spa and

restaurant.

Offer Receive a 10% earlybird discount. Call for details.


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GOLDEN TRIANGLE

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ANANTARA GOLDEN TRIANGLE ELEPHANT CAMP & RESORT

Perched on a hill overlooking the hills of

Burma and Laos, Anantara’s Golden Triangle

Elephant Camp & Resort is as enchanting as

the region in which it is located. Surrounded

by the natural beauty of Northern Thailand’s

rugged hill country, this luxury natural retreat

is set amidst 160 acres of lush tropical

jungles overlooking the winding Mekong

River. The refreshing chill of a Northern Thai

sunrise shrouded in mountain mist. The rush

of a longboat ride up the Mekong to Laos.

The exhilaration of riding an elephant through

bamboo jungle along the border of Burma.

Accommodation

58 Deluxe rooms, 3 Country View rooms

each with superb views of the hills and

forested mountains of three countries

from balconies with built-in sofas. The 19

spacious Anantara Suites combine traditional

Thai art and high design, featuring hardwood

floors, double balconies and open bathrooms

with oversized tubs for two.

Facilities

At the end of a perfect day, relax in the

hilltop infinity-edged swimming pool

overlooking the Mekong Valley. Enjoy a Thai

massage or relax in an outdoor tub at the

Anantara Spa. There are three restaurants

and a bar offering a range of dining options.

The Elephant Camp

Unique to the Anantara Golden Triangle,

the Elephant Camp is a traditional mahout

(elephant-trainer) village, located in the

jungle within walking distance of the resort.

Set up as a centre for the conservation of

elephants this camp offers guests of the

resort a remarkable opportunity to observe

the elephants up close, learn to drive an

elephant, watch them bathe in the river and

see how the mahouts live.

Golden Triangle 2 Day Tour Includes 1 night 3 Country View

accommodation, dinner on day one,

breakfast and lunch on day two, house

wine and local beer with meals, minibar,

one time visit to the Opium Museum, a

daily activity choice of a spa treatment,

elephant training (including riding,

feeding and bathing an elephant), a 3

country tour and a cooking class.

Offer Receive a 10% discount off the price

when booking at least 90 days in advance.

Dates of validity vary. Call for details.

Prices from £375 per person based on twin

share.

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23INSPIRED BY ASIA 23

NORTHERN THAILAND IN STYLE 6 Day Private Tour

Begin your Northern Thailand

tour in the heart of the Golden

Triangle with a 2 night stay at

the remarkable Anantara Resort,

where you can feed, bathe and

ride elephants. Visit the city of

Chiang Rai on the Kok River

before finishing with two nights in

Chiang Mai, blessed with stunning

mountain scenery and historic

temples.

This is a private tour with first class

accommodation throughout, and

the services of an English-speaking

guide. Flights are not included.

Departs daily.

Includes• 5 nights hotel accommodation• Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp & Resort for 2 nights including all meals• Free daily activity at Anantara G.Triangle• Golden Triangle touring• Legend Chiang Rai Resort for 1 night• Hill tribe village visits and river cruise• Anantara Chiang Mai for 2 nights• Chiang Mai tour• Breakfast daily and other meals as shown • Private touring with English-speaking guide • Air-conditioned vehicle

Day 1 Arrive Chiang Rai Met on arrival at

Chiang Rai airport and privately transferred

(around 1 hour) north to the Anantara

Golden Triangle Resort and Spa (see page

22) for a two night stay. We recommend

arriving into Chiang Rai as early as possible

to make the most of your stay here. This

luxury natural retreat is set amidst 160 acres

of lush jungle, overlooking the Mekong

River. All meals included and you can

choose from one activity per day (included)

from a choice of elephant training (which

features bathing and feeding elephants), a

spa treatment, a cooking class or a visit to

the nearby Opium Museum.

Day 2 Anantara Golden Triangle Full day to

enjoy the facilities and activities at this hotel.

Day 3 Golden Triangle touring Enjoy

breakfast at the Anantara from the terrace

with wonderful views of the hills and river

below. Travel by private, air-conditioned van

and begin your tour with a visit the village of

Doi Mae Salong, set high amidst magnificent

mountainous scenery. Visit to the hill tribe

villages of Yao and Akha before continuing

to the northernmost border trading town of

Mai Sai. Here you can shop for interesting

items from Thailand and Burma. Arrive in

the city of Chiang Rai and check in to the

four-star The Legend Chiang Rai Resort for

a 1 night stay. Relax by the infinity pool,

experience the spa (optional, additional

cost) and restaurant which is set on the

river’s edge with fine riverside views.

Day 4 Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai Today

you’ll experience the countryside and

villages set between Chiang Rai and Chiang

Mai, which are 115 miles apart. Visit a Long

Neck Hill Tribe Village and Shan Village then

enjoy a long-tailed boat ride on the Mae

Kok River. After lunch (included) continue

on to Chiang Mai, a culturally significant

city set amongst the highest mountains in

the country. Visit a Buddhist shrine and an

elaborate cave network where local guides

take you into the cool inner caves. Check

in to the Anantara Chiang Mai (see page

19) for a 2 night stay. The Anantara enjoys

a superb location on the banks of the Mae

Ping River and close to the centre of the city

and old quarter.

Day 5 Chiang Mai touring Today join a tour

that will take you up into the mountains,

to the acclaimed temple Wat Phrathad

Doi Suthep. Built in A.D.384 and situated

at 3500 feet above sea level, this is a

significant temple with panoramic views

of the city. After lunch continue on to San

Kampaeng and Bo-Sang Village. These

locations are renowned for their local cottage

industries and handicrafts. Return to the

Anantara Chiang Mai for the rest of the day

at leisure.

Day 6 Depart Chiang Mai Morning at leisure

before your private transfer to Chiang Mai

Airport to end your tour.

Prices from £1199 per person, based on

twin share.

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LANNA DISCOVERY 5 Day Private Tour

Experience the charm of North

Thailand on this five-day tour.

You’ll see the impressive temples

of both Chiang Rai and Chiang

Mai and learn about the Lanna

kingdom. Sit back and relax as

your guide takes you through the

stunning scenery. Enjoy a boat

ride on the Kok River, a visit to

the infamous Golden Triangle

and a chance to meet hill tribes

in their villages. This is a private

tour that departs on a daily basis.

Flights are not included.

Includes• 2 nights Legend Hotel Chiang Rai• 2 nights Tamarind Village Chiang Mai• Breakfast daily, 3 lunches 1 traditional dinner• Air-conditioned vehicle• Touring as shown with an English- speaking guide• Entrance fees• Pick up at Chiang Rai airport and drop off at Chiang Mai airport

Day 1 Arrive Chiang Rai Met on arrival and

privately transferred to the Legend Chiang

Rai for a 2 night stay in a Superior Studio

room. Resting on the banks of the Mae Kok

River, the 4 star Legend Chiang Rai delivers

an authentic Lanna atmosphere with its

blend of northern Thai architectural details,

local artwork and hand-plastered white

walls. Facilities include an infinity-edged

pool and a spa. Some time to relax and

enjoy the beautiful setting of this hotel. In

the afternoon visit a local market in Chiang

Rai, then on to a local temple; Wat Phra

Kaew. This is one of Chiang Rai’s most

famous Buddhist temples and is a good

example of classic Lanna architecture.

Continue on to the 14th century temple:

Wat Phra Singh. Return to your hotel which

features a riverside terrace restaurant with

superb views.

Day 2 Chiang Rai – Golden Triangle Enjoy a

leisurely breakfast before a morning boat trip

on the Kok River to a Hilltribe village. Lunch

is provided in the infamous ‘Golden Triangle’

area, where the borders of Thailand, Burma

and Laos meet. Tour the Golden Triangle

with its sights and sounds of traditional life

that differs so much to that of the western

world. Return to The Legend Hotel for your

2nd and final night.

Day 3 Chiang Rai – Chiang Mai After

breakfast check out and depart with a road

trip to Thaton to visit the Akha and Padong

longneck hill tribe villages. This is a rare

opportunity to see a traditional way of life

in a beautiful country setting. Take a walk

through the villages with your guide and

meet the local people. After lunch continue

to Chiang Mai. The drive from Chiang Rai

to Chiang Mai is approximately 3 hours in

total. On arrival in Chiang Mai take a drive

up to the acclaimed temple, built in AD 384;

Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep, home to a holy

relic of the Lord Buddha and considered by

many to be the most sacred Wat (temple) in

northern Thailand. There are far reaching

views of Chiang Mai and the surrounding

countryside from this hilltop temple, situated

at 3500 feet. Check in to your Chiang Mai

hotel; Tamarind Village for a 2 night stay in a

Lanna room. This is a unique and charming

4 star property with a great location in the

historic old quarter of the city. Facilities

include a pool, spa and restaurant. In the

evening a traditional ‘Khantoke’ dinner is

served with typical Thai dishes from the

northern region. Elegant Thai dancers

perform.

Day 4 Chiang Mai After breakfast visit an

elephant camp to see the elephants at

work during a half hour presentation. There

is an opportunity to watch the elephants

take their morning bath. During your visit

to the elephant camp you’ll b able to ride

an elephant in a one hour trek through

the surround lush forest. After a Thai set

lunch at the camp enjoy a leisurely cruise

on a bamboo raft along the Ping River.

Visit an Orchid Farm before returning to

the Tamarind Village for your 2nd and final

night. There is a street market on most

nights of the week which is just a short walk

from your hotel.

Day 5 Depart Chiang Mai Breakfast then

a private transfer to Chiang Mai Airport for

your onward journey.

Prices from £729 per person, based on twin

share.

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HUA HIN

Travel Hua Hin is located

approximately 106 miles

from Bangkok. We can

arrange for you to be met on

arrival at Bangkok Airport

for an immediate private

car transfer to your Hua Hin

accommodation, from £40 per

person. There are fl ights from

Bangkok to Hua Hin, but the

service is unpredictable, so we

recommend a land transfer.

Attractions Phra Nakhon Khiri

(Khao Wang) is a spectacular

palace, dating back to 1869, set

on a hill with impressive views.

It features a Chedi, not unlike

that of those seen at the Grand

Palace in Bangkok.

The railway station is worth a

look as it refl ects the history

of the town with its impressive

royal waiting room. There is a

fi ne choice of beaches all along

this coast.

When to go September through

to February is generally the best

time to visit Hua Hin, when

the skies are clear and it’s less

humid. Temperatures don’t

vary too greatly throughout the

year; usually between 27°C and

35°C. The rainy season is from

April to August and, although

humid, Hua Hin is not as hot as

Bangkok due to the cooling sea

breezes wafting off the Gulf of

Thailand.

Hua Hin is closely associated with Thai

royalty and located on the sunrise side of

the Thai Gulf, some three hours south-

west of Bangkok. Essentially Hua Hin is

a quiet and relaxing seaside resort with a

fi ne stretch of sandy beach and a host of

attractions nearby such as national parks

and historical sites. Six of the country’s

best golf courses are within easy reach.

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HUA HIN Hotels

HHHHH

CENTARA GRAND BEACH RESORT & VILLAS HUA HIN

Experience the luxury of an exquisite

colonial-style hotel set in delightful tropical

gardens and bordering a stretch of sandy

beach. This historic hotel dates back to 1923

and has fully retained its old-world charm.

AccommodationThere are 207 luxuriously appointed rooms

and suites, including the Club executive fl oor,

each with its own private balcony overlooking

the ocean or landscaped gardens. High

ceilings, period-style furniture and a décor

that uses rich polished hardwood softened

by the warm tones of Thai silk evoke the

spirit of the 1920s. The 42 villas set amongst

the extensive gardens, with spacious living

accommodation and the option of their own

pool, offer privacy along with the ultimate in

luxury. All rooms have fl at screen TVs with

international channels, room safe, minibar,

tea and coffee making facilities, hairdryer,

and high speed Internet access. The Club

offers unrivalled levels of facilities and

services with exclusive Club Lounge access,

including fi ve daily meal presentations,

cocktails and concierge service.

FacilitiesWith its location on the beachfront, the hotel

is perfect for swimming and boating, and just

for lazing on the beach. Two putting greens,

four swimming pools, two tennis courts, a

snooker room, badminton, table tennis and

a Fitness Centre offer superb opportunities

for leisure and keeping fi t, and there is a

children’s playground. It was the building of

the railway line that spurred the development

of the little fi shing village of Hua Hin into a

playground for Thailand’s aristocracy in the

1920s.

The Royal Hua Hin Golf Course opened in

the same year as the Railway Hotel, and has

in recent years been joined by several other

international standard courses, making the

little town a prime destination for golfers.

With the spacious tropical gardens forming a

backdrop, SPA Cenvaree offers a full range

of luxurious massage and body treatments

combining ancient Asian therapies with

modern technology that detoxifi es and re-

mineralises the body and soothes the mind.

Choice of 5 restaurants, a café and bar.

Offer Receive up to 7 nights free during the

low season.

Prices from £83 per person per night,

including breakfast daily.

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HUA HIN Hotels

Nestled in 14 acres of beautifully luxuriant tropical gardens on a secluded seafront, the Anantara Hua

Hin Resort & Spa offers a romantic honeymoon hideaway or the ultimate family getaway in the classic

seaside resort of Hua Hin. Reminiscent of an ancient Thai village the hotel offers 187 rooms, each with a

balcony or terrace with built-in sofas overlooking the gardens. Facilities include two infi nity-edged pools,

a swim-up bar, spa and fi ve bars and restaurants. Shuttle bus to Hua Hin (10 minute journey).

Offer Earlybird discounts available. Offer dates vary, call for details.


Characterised by its impeccable service and elegant accommodation, the hotel has been described as

“one of the most distinctive in Hua Hin”. Perched on the shores of Hua Hin’s breathtaking beach, the

hotel offers easy access to the seaside town’s street markets, shopping, restaurants and nightlife. Each

room at the stunning Cape Nidhra Hotel has a private pool. Facilities include a fi ne dining restaurant,

rooftop bar, fi tness centre, pool, sauna, spa and water sports.

Offer Receive up to 4 nights free during low season.


ANANTARA HUA HINRESORT & SPA

HHHHH

CAPE NIDHRA HOTELHHHHH

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HUA HIN Hotels

Featuring contemporary accommodation in an idyllic garden setting, Amari Hua Hin is adjacent to Khao

Takiab beach, just 10 minutes from Hua Hin’s downtown area. Amari Hua Hin features 223 modern

rooms ranging from deluxe rooms to expansive suites. The rooms are stylishly furnished and offer guests

spacious living areas. Hotel facilities include an outdoor pool, kids’ club, spa, fi tness centre and a free

shuttle bus to Hua Hin. The Amari Hua Hin is just two and a half hours drive from Bangkok.

Offer Receive up to 4 nights free. Offer dates vary. Call for details.


Commanding an unspoilt beachfront location, the Dusit Thani Hua Hin combines sumptuous comfort

with traditional Thai style. An ornamental lake, lily pond and tropical gardens fl ank a magnifi cent

swimming pool. 296 rooms offer panoramic views of the sea, gardens or pool. Hotel facilities include two

pools, a children’s pool, a fi tness centre, tennis courts, squash courts, sauna, steam room, Jacuzzi and

spa. Excellent choice of bars and restaurants. Shuttle bus to Hua Hin.

Offer Receive up to 15 night free. Dates vary, call for details.


AMARIHUA HINHHHH

DUSIT THANIHUA HINHHHHH

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KOH SAMUI & KOH PHANGAN

Travel Koh Samui is well served

with fl ights from Bangkok,

Krabi, Chiang Mai, Phuket as

well as Singapore and Hong

Kong. The fl ying time from

Bangkok is 60 minutes. Access

to Koh Phangan is via Koh

Samui, with speedboat transfers

(45 mins) arranged by the

hotels.

Guide to the beaches Situated

on Koh Samui’s east coast,

Chaweng is the island’s longest

beach, with four miles of

powder-soft sand. It has the

island’s largest concentration

of accommodation and is by

far the busiest and liveliest

part of the island with a noisy

social scene at night. The north

coast features the beaches of

Maenam, Bo Phut and Bang

Rak; all of which are ideal

places for those who want to

get away from it all. On Koh

Phangan we feature two hotels

on beautiful Thong Nai Pan Noi

Beach.

When to go February to June

is the hot and dry season

with temperatures touching

40°C. May to September have

some short, sharp downpours

but are cooler months with

temperatures in the mid to

late 30°C and calmer seas.

The rainy season extends from

October through to January.

Koh Samui and the

smaller island of Koh

Phangan located to

the north, are both

set within the Gulf of

Thailand and offer

beautiful sandy beaches and an island way

of life. Both feature lively resorts, such as

Samui’s Chaweng beach, but also offer a

signifi cant number of upscale boutique-

style properties in quiet, scenic locations.

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KOH SAMUI Hotels

SALA Samui is a stunning pool villa boutique resort, located on 80 metres of pristine white sandy

beach on the north-east tip of the island, just ten minutes from Koh Samui Airport. Featuring the

luxury of a private pool in 53 of a total of 69 villas and suites, the resort offers stylish and comfortable

accommodation. SALA Samui boasts two beachfront pools, including a 25-metre lap pool surrounded by

four massage salas fl oating in a beautiful lotus pond. Spa, gym, library, beach bar and two restaurants.

Offer Receive up to a 15% earlybird discount. Call for details.


The Tongsai Bay is a family owned hotel, hidden amongst 25 acres of breathtaking natural beauty and

overlooking a sandy bay, renowned for its privacy and tranquillity. The sandy beach is 200 metres long.

Cottage Suites are set on the hillside amongst the gardens with sea views. The Seafront Cottage Suites

are on the cliff-edge with sea views, while the Beachfront Suites are in a 3 storey building by the pool

with pool or sea views. Facilities include 2 pools, watersports, spa, tennis, gym, 2 restaurants and a bar.



SALA SAMUIRESORT & SPA

HHHHH

TONGSAI BAYHHHHH

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KOH SAMUI Hotels

Set in pretty landscaped gardens, privacy and tranquillity reign at the Bo Phut Resort & Spa, located on

Bo Phut Beach within walking distance of Fishermans Village with its range of bars and restaurants. With

61 rooms including 32 villas, some with private pools, two restaurants, an impressive spa and a pool this

is a place to relax. All the rooms, suites and villas are indulgently spacious and contemporary yet retain a

defi nite Thai style with the use of natural materials.

Offer Free room upgrade for 6 nights or more earlybird deal. Dates vary.


The Belmond Napasai Koh Samui is an oasis of luxury, located along Mae Nam Beach on the north

coast of Koh Samui. The resort’s exclusive, picturesque split-level beach is the largest on the island. The

surrounding 17 acres of lush tropical garden further add to the sense of romantic privacy. Spacious villas

offer sea views from private patios and a stylish Thai décor. Facilities include a beautiful infi nity pool, a

spa, two bars, choice of four restaurants, and an 8-hole championship golf course a short drive away.

Offer Receive up to a 30% discount when booking in advance. Conditions apply.


BO PHUTRESORT & SPA

HHHHH

BELMONDNAPASAIHHHHH

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KOH SAMUI Hotels

The charming Zazen Boutique Resort & Spa occupies an idyllic spot in the north of Koh Samui in walking

distance of nearby beachfront bars and restaurants. Intimate and relaxed, the 26-room resort sits beside

the white sand beach of Bophut. Distinctive bungalows are set amongst a verdant tropical garden and

offer quality furnishings combined with in-room entertainment. The restaurant is renowned as one of the

best on the island. Facilities include a pool, signature spa, water sports and gym.

Offer Receive a Baht 2000 credit to spend in the spa, for 10 night stays.


A stunning beachfront resort featuring private pool villas and a spa located on an exclusive beach at

Thongson Bay, Koh Samui. The resort is conveniently located just a 10 minute drive from the airport

and only a 10 minute drive to Fisherman’s Village with its choice of bars and restaurants. Set amongst a

tropical landscape the villas and suites extend down the hill to a white sandy beach. Facilities include two

pools, choice of bars and restaurants, a spa, a fi tness centre, library and a kids club.

Offer Receive up to 4 nights free. Offer dates vary, call for details.


ZAZEN BOUTIQUERESORT & SPA

HHHHH

MELATI BEACHRESORT & SPA

HHHHH

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KOH SAMUI Hotels

The Bandara Resort and Spa offers a great location set on the beachfront at popular Bo Phut beach, on

the north coast of Koh Samui. Set in extensive tropical gardens it offers space and serenity with the lively

Fisherman’s Village, with its range of bars, cafes and restaurants, nearby. Accommodation comes in a

range of deluxe hotel rooms and villas. Facilities include 4 pools including a kids’ pool, watersports, spa,

restaurant, lobby bar and beachfront bar.

Offer Receive up to 4 nights free. Dates vary. Call for details.


The Amari Koh Samui is set on Chaweng beach, but at the quieter more secluded northern end of

Samui’s most popular stretch of coastline. With elegant Thai-style buildings, divided by a small road, set

either on the beach or in tropical gardens, this boutique resort offers 197 spacious Thai-style rooms with

either a balcony or terrace. Guests can enjoy two free-form swimming pools, kids’ pools, a jacuzzi, the

fi tness centre, a spa, watersports and a PADI dive centre. Two bars and two restaurants.



BANDARARESORT & SPA

HHHH

AMARIKOH SAMUI

HHHH

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KOH PHANGAN Hotels

The Anantara Rasananda Koh Phangan Villa Resort & Spa is an oasis of villas and suites sprawled over

200m of sea-view frontage, along the pristine white sands of Tong Nai Pan Beach, just 35 minutes from

Koh Samui by speedboat. The 64 Villas and Suites all feature an individual pool and terrace or balcony.

The expansive main pool features bubble beds and massage jets and guests will enjoy the spa with yoga

classes available. The signature restaurant features both alfresco and covered seaside dining.

Offer Receive up to a 15% discount earlybird deal. Dates vary. Call for details.


Hidden amongst swaying palm trees on the secluded white sandy Thong Nai Pan Noi Beach with clear,

turquoise water you will find Buri Rasa Village. Choose from a range of stylish room types with either

garden, pool or ocean view and ocean front. Facilities include a beachside restaurant offering Thai,

western and BBQ cuisines, a beach bar, an outdoor pool, spa and gym. Excellent diving opportunities

nearby.

Offer Receive up to a 15% discount with an earlybird deal. Call for details.


ANANTARA RASANANDA KOH PHANGAN

VILLA RESORT & SPAHHHHH

BURI RASA VILLAGEKOH PHANGAN

HHHHH

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PHUKET

Travel There are scheduled

fl ights to Phuket from Bangkok,

with a journey time of around

70 minutes. The airport is to the

north of the island and transfer

times vary from 10-60 minutes.

Inspired by Asia can pre-book

private airport transfers to your

hotel.

Guide to Phuket’s beachesPatong beach boasts a long

stretch of sandy beach, lively

night markets, restaurants, bars

and evening entertainment. Cape

Panwa is a secluded location

with a lovely private beach.

Karon beach is close to Patong,

relatively quiet but with a good

choice of bars and restaurants.

Bang Tao offers a white sandy

beach and inland lagoons

which link fi ve of Phuket’s

most sophisticated hotels. Kata

beach is popular with families.

The secluded bay and fi shing

village of Kamala still retains

its small-town atmosphere with

restaurants lining the beach.

When to go The dry, coolest

period is from November to

February and this proves to

be the most popular time

for visitors. The rainy season

from June to October brings

a mixture of sunshine and

tropical downpours, with spring

from March to May offering hot

weather (35°C). Generally the

temperature throughout the year

averages 30°C.

Set just off Thailand’s

south-west coast, Phuket

is the country’s largest

island, and blessed

with magnifi cent coves

and bays, palm-fringed

beaches and numerous sparkling islands.

Phuket is also the gateway to numerous

island resorts dotted throughout the

Andaman Sea.

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PHUKET Hotels

This luxury resort offers a serene setting perched upon a secluded cove commanding an impressive view

of the blue Andaman Sea. There are 48 romantic pool villa units perfect for honeymooners. Each villa has

a private infi nity pool, sunken lounge, bath with rain shower. The interior design combines soft colours

and natural textures with oriental touches. Facilities include a stunning beachfront restaurant, spa,

fi tness centre, library and free use of all the facilities at its sister resort, Katathani.

Offer Receive up to 5 nights free during the low season.


The Katathani Phuket Beach Resort is a popular, well established hotel facing 850 metres of unspoilt

white sandy beach in secluded Kata Noi Bay, just a 20 minute drive south of Patong. There are two wings

but we offer the Junior Suites in the deluxe Thani Wing, all with full or partial sea views from a private

balcony/terrace. It’s just a short stroll across the lush gardens to the beachfront. Facilities include six

pools, three jacuzzis, spa, two fi tness centres, tennis, games room, library, bars and six restaurants.



THE SHOREAT KATATHANI

HHHHH

KATATHANI PHUKET BEACH RESORT

HHHHH

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PHUKET Hotels

The Surin Phuket elegantly punctuates the tropical landscape along the island’s fi nest white sand beach

at the tranquil Pansea Beach on the west coast of Phuket Island. The collection of cottages and suites

are linked by jungle walkways. The cottages are nestled within the hillside and enjoy partial sea views

while suites offer direct beach access. Facilities include a large pool with beach views, two restaurants, a

café, a sunset bar, spa, gym, tennis and watersports. Walking distance to nearby bars and restaurants.

Offer Receive a 25% earlybird discount during the low season.


The Dusit Thani Laguna is a beach front resort with a 200-metre white sandy beach, set on beautiful

Laguna Phuket Bang Tao Bay, Asia’s fi rst integrated resort development, located on the west coast of

Phuket. It is 30 minutes drive south of Phuket International Airport and half an hour north of Patong

Beach. Facilities include an excellent swimming pool, bars and restaurants. Guests staying in the Laguna

complex have access to the full range of other hotel facilities, providing unparalleled choice.



THE SURIN PHUKETHHHHH

DUSIT THANI LAGUNAPHUKETHHHHH

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PHUKET Hotels

Touching Nai Yang Beach on Phuket’s northwest shore, Indigo Pearl greets guests with a hidden

sanctuary just moments from the Andaman Sea. Featuring post modern architecture with a Thai

tradition, this hotel refl ects Phuket’s heritage as a former tin mining centre while offering a distinctive

atmosphere that will intrigue guests. Spacious and stylish rooms face the gardens, some with a private

pool. Facilities include 3 pools, an award-winning spa, watersports, fi tness room, tennis, Thai cooking

classes, a kids club and a choice of bars and restaurants.



INDIGO PEARLHHHHH

6

Renowned for its excellent service and exclusive beach, Cape Panwa Hotel’s accommodation includes

Superior rooms, Junior Suites, comfortable Family Suites, stylish Cape Suites and four remarkable

Cape Signature Suites. Six, two bedroom pool villas offer space and privacy, each with a private pool

overlooking the idyllic coconut grove and beach. Facilities include two pools, a playroom and pool, spa,

watersports, fi tness centre, fi ve restaurants and fi ve bars and regular trips to nearby Coral Island.



CAPE PANWAHOTELHHHH

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KHAO LAK

Travel Khao Lak is accessed

with flights via Phuket Airport,

located one hour south of

Khao Lak. Inspired by Asia can


arrival at Phuket Airport and

privately transferred to your

accommodation at Khao Lak.

Attractions Khao Lak is

surrounded by national parks

of outstanding beauty and

day trips can be arranged to

experience the rainforests

and maybe catch a glimpse of

some wildlife. The Similan and

Surin Islands Marine National

Parks, among the world’s top

dive sites, are less than an

hour away by boat. Phang Nga

Bay, renowned for its sheer

limestone formations and

hidden caves and lagoons is

40 minutes away by car.

When to go The dry, coolest

period is from November to

February and this proves to

be the most popular time

for visitors. The rainy season

from June to October brings

a mixture of sunshine and

tropical downpours, with spring

from March to May offering hot

weather (35°C). Generally the

temperature throughout the

year averages 30°C.

Khao Lak is an area of

outstanding beauty. Pure

white beaches, cascading

waterfalls, spectacular

primary forest, idyllic

lagoons, estuarine

mangroves and wildlife abound. Khao Lak is

surrounded inland by five spectacular and

adventurous national parks, including the

magnificent primary rain forests of Khao Lak

and Khao Sok as well as one of Thailand’s

largest natural mangrove ecosystems.

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KHAO LAK Hotels

HHHHH

THE SAROJIN

Situated just an hour from Phuket International

Airport in Khao Lak on a secluded 11km white

sandy beach, The Sarojin is ideal for couples,

romantic breaks, honeymoons, weddings and

older family groups.

Designed in a contemporary Asian style with

just 56 luxurious guest residences. Wide

range of activities and facilities - snorkel,

scuba or cruise on a luxury boat, jungle

adventures complete with champagne,

glimpse authentic Thai local life, on tours

of the area, in association with responsible

and sustainable tourism commitment,

rejuvenating spa massages lulled by the

sounds of the Andaman sea, Thai cooking

classes, lazy gourmet lunches, romantic

diners on a secluded beach or by a candlelit

jungle waterfall . . . the limits are only your

imagination.

Note: No children under 10 years are

permitted to stay.

Accommodation and facilities

All 56 guest rooms are spacious with king-

sized beds, luxurious bathrooms with intimate

couples baths. Choose from Garden, Pool

Residences (private pool) or Sarojin Suites.

Facilities include 3 pools (2 for adults only),

2 restaurants, 2 bars, a wine cellar, private

dining, spa, gym and a luxury boat.

Offer Receive up to a 15% discount when

booking in advance. Call for details.



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KHAO LAK Hotels

A stunning beachside resort and sister hotel to the Katathani Resort Phuket. Set on the golden sands of

Nang Thong Beach and surrounded by coconut groves. Facilities include five swimming pools, a mini

water slide, three bars and two restaurants, a fitness centre, spa and Thai cooking classes. Located in the

centre of Khao Lak, walking distance to an array of bars and restaurants. Spacious rooms offer a balcony

or terrace with ceiling fan and day bed.



The Waters Khao Lak by Katathani is an adult-friendly resort located in the hear of Bang Niang Village

which offers a range of bars and restaurants, all within easy walking distance. The beach at Bang Niang

is just a 400 yard stroll from the hotel. The 189 stylish rooms feature a private balcony and most with a

pool view. Hotel facilities include six swimming pools, a fitness centre, an in-house Italian restaurant, a

swim-up bar and a free shuttle bus to and from the beach.


Prices from £21 per person per night including breakfast daily.

THE SANDSBY KATATHANI

HHHH

THE WATERSKHAO LAK

BY KATATHANIHHHH

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KHAO LAK Hotels

The elegant and boutique La Flora Resort and Spa is located right on a golden sandy beach, just an

hour’s drive from Phuket Airport. Offering 138 guest rooms (Deluxe room pictured), including 13 exclusive

villas, pool access and deluxe rooms, all with a contemporary Asian style set in low rise buildings spaced

throughout the gardens. Hotel facilities include an infinity-edged swimming pool, a free-form swimming

pool, a kids’ pool, watersports, a fitness centre, tennis, a spa and a beachfront restaurant.



Manathai Khao Lak is a 158-room resort, located on a stretch of unspoiled Bangsak Beach in one of

Thailand’s most beautiful regions, just an hour north of Phuket. This new resort offers a large pool with

sea views and authentic dining in two restaurants. Facilities include a pool bar, gym, kids club and

cooking classes. There is a complimentary, frequent shuttle bus to Khao Lak town. Rooms are spacious

and feature Thai handicrafts and are located throughout the lush gardens.

Offer Receive a 10% discount earlybird offer.


LA FLORARESORT & SPA

HHHH

MANATHAIKHAO LAKHHHH

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KHAO SOK NATIONAL PARK

Travel Your package includes all scheduled transfers

to and from Elephant Hills. Transfer options

are Phuket, Khao Lak, Krabi, Phang Nga,

Surat Thani, Khanom, Don Sak Pier and even

Koh Samui. The nearest airport is Surat Thani

(1 hour transfer). Phuket Airport is a 2 hour

transfer. All these transfers can be combined

at no surcharge e.g. you can be picked up at

Phuket Airport and dropped off at your Koh

Samui hotel.

Khao Sok National Park in south

Thailand is a spectacular place

to visit. It is covered by the oldest

evergreen rainforest in the world,

huge limestone mountains shooting

straight up in the air, deep valleys,

breathtaking lakes, exciting caves,

wild animals and much more.

Elephant Hills Children’s Project The Children’s project started in 2005 and

over the years has helped to build a library,

donate to playgrounds and buy sporting

equipment for three schools in Khao Sok

which are sadly lacking in equipment and

funds. £10 of your booking with be matched

by Inspired by Asia and a donation made

towards this worthwhile project.

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KHAO SOK NATIONAL PARK

Elephant Hills is Thailand’s first luxury jungle camp combining

the experience of an African Safari with a Thai Forest setting. The

scenery is dramatic; jungle covered limestone peaks and a forest with

an array of animals and plants. Accommodation is in 30 luxurious

tents, all with an en suite bathroom. The tents are spacious and well

protected against mosquitoes and other intruders. There is an attractive

restaurant, a log fire to sit around with drinks and a swimming pool.

The Rainforest Camp is 16 luxury floating tents, set spectacularly on

Cheow Larn Lake. Each floating tent includes an en suite bathroom, a

comfortable double bed and a sun deck to sit and enjoy the amazing

views of the lake and the rainforest mountains. Guests can canoe off

from their own deck (canoe hire included) to explore the lake and

perhaps spot the monkeys or array of birdlife. Guided canoe tours are

also included. Facilities include a restaurant and bar.

Elephant Hills 3 Day Jungle Lake Safari

Day 1 Arrive Elephant Hills You will be met on arrival at your chosen

airport and transferred to Elephant Hills. On arrival at the resort enjoy

lunch before a Canoe Safari down the Sok River. In the afternoon enjoy

the ‘Elephant Experience’. Interact with the Elephants and learn the

secrets of their mahouts. You will prepare and feed the elephants one of

their daily meals, scrub and clean and watch them bathe.

Note No riding on, or trekking with the elephants. This is truly a once

in a lifetime chance to experience the Asian Elephant, the largest land

animal in this part of the world. Relax by the pool then dinner and

overnight.

Day 2 Cheow Larn Lake After breakfast depart by truck and then by

longtailed boat to the luxury floating tents on Cheow Larn Lake. A stop

is made at a local market en route. Enjoy self paddle canoeing on the

lake and look out for monkeys swinging through the trees. Lunch and

dinner and overnight.

Day 3 Depart Cheow Larn Lake Breakfast then either relax by the lake,

canoe or take the guided jungle trek. After lunch depart the lake with a

boat and vehicle transfer to your chosen location.

Note we can also offer 2 and 4 day Safaris. No children under 7 at the

Rainforest Camp.

Prices from £340 per person, based on twin share.

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KRABI

Travel Krabi is well served with

regular scheduled fl ights from

Bangkok, with a fl ying time

of around 70 minutes. The

transfer time from Krabi Airport

to the resorts varies from 30-40

minutes. Alternatively many

travellers use the access point

of Phuket with its greater range

of fl ights. Inspired by Asia can

then arrange a transfer from

Phuket with a journey time of

around 2½ hours.

Guide to the beaches Ao Nang

is the centre of the tourist

scene in Krabi. The beach,

pretty but unspectacular,

has the safest swimming in

the region. Klong Muang and

Tubkaak beaches are located

to the north of Ao Nang and

offer a quieter environment with

superb sea views and direct

access to beautiful white sand

beaches. Resorts here tend to

be luxurious and self-contained;

outside of these resorts there

are only a handful of shops and

restaurants.

When to go The ideal time is

November to April, the hot and

dry season, when there are

calm seas and clear blue skies.

The rainy season - May to Oct -

is cooler with days punctuated

with short sharp downpours.

Average temperatures

throughout the year vary

between 28-32°C but reach

36°C during March and April.

Krabi, located 500 miles

south of Bangkok on

Thailand’s south-west

coast, offers white-

sand beaches, backed

by dense rainforest

and lapped by clear waters; some of the

best in Thailand. Krabi offers some great

excursions including day trips to the Phi

Phi Islands and snorkelling at Koh Hong

Island.

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KRABI Hotels

Nestled on the white sand of Tubkaak Beach with superb views towards the limestone peaks of the Ko

Hong Archipelago. Rooms are located in two storey buildings set around the pool and gardens, or on

the beachfront with a terrace and an unrivalled sea view. Premier pool villas offer ultimate privacy for a

romantic getaway and the Beach Pool villas are only steps away from the gentle waves of the Andaman

Sea. Facilities include a bar and restaurant, spa, sauna, swimming pool, jacuzzi, gym, and library.



A member of Leading Hotels of The World, Rayavadee is a 5 star luxury resort surrounded by beautiful

beaches, dramatic limestone cliffs and tropical landscapes at the heart of Krabi’s stunning Phranang

Peninsula. The resort’s 98 enchanting two-story pavilions and four luxurious beachfront villas are spread

over 26 acres of coconut groves, their spacious interiors and décor providing unsurpassed comfort for

the property’s highly discerning guests.

Offer Receive up to 4 nights free. Offer dates vary call for details.


THE TUBKAAK KRABI BOUTIQUE RESORT

HHHHH

RAYAVADEEHHHHH

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KRABI Hotels

The Centara Grand Beach Resort sits majestically within its own private bay with impressive views. The

resort has a direct beachfront location facing 500 metres of pristine white sand. This resort of 192 rooms

and pool villas is linked to the town of Ao Nang by free boat transfers. Rooms are spacious and include a

‘living-room-style’ terrace complete with a lounge and dining area. Facilities include two pools, a kids’ club

and pool, jacuzzi, gym, watersports, a spa and choice of bars and restaurants.



Nestled discreetly in a secluded area, just steps away from the pristine, white sand Klong Muong Beach,

lies the Dusit Thani Krabi Beach Resort. This beachfront hotel is only moments away from the beautiful

cliff formations, lush forests, waterfalls and caves the province in known for. Offering 240 guest rooms

and suites, two inviting beachfront pools, a variety of restaurants and a spa set in the vast tropical

gardens, the Resort is the perfect retreat for families.

Offer Earlybird discounts for advanced bookings. Call for details.


CENTARA GRANDBEACH RESORT & VILLAS

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DUSIT THANIKRABI BEACH RESORT

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PHI PHI ISLANDS

The Phi Phi Islands

are an archipelago of

six islands. The superb

scenery of the islands

includes high hills with

jutting cliffs surrounded

by marvellous beaches

and emerald sea,

hiding underneath a

bank of coral reefs and

colourful marine life. It

is easy to see why Phi

Phi is one of the most

popular destinations in

Southern of Thailand.

How to get there

Zeavola Resort is located

approximately 30 miles from

Phuket and can be reached

within a 1 hour crossing.

Zeavola offers a speed boat

transfer service to guests with

a scheduled daily departure

from and to the Resort.

Guests can be met at Phuket

Airport and transferred (30

minutes) to the Royal Yacht

Marina in Phuket where the

speedboat departs to Zeavola.

Prices on request.

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ZEAVOLA RESORT

Zeavola is the definition of barefoot luxury: a Thai

rural village concept with teakwood. This charming

resort is a romantic retreat with only 53 villas

located on Phi Phi Island’s north coast. Blending

traditional Thai influences and a charming feel of

rustic Thailand with more contemporary touches.

Relax amongst the lush tropical garden and enjoy

the beautiful beach-front location.

Accommodation

Village and Garden Suites enjoy a tropical garden

setting with the Garden Suites slightly larger than

the Village Suites. Beachfront rooms offer direct

access through the gardens to the beach while

the secluded and private Pool Villa Suites are set

on the hillside offering magnificent views and a

private pool.

Activities and facilities

Zeavola offers guests a stunning beach, Pool,

PADI Dive Centre, Spa & Massage, 2 Restaurants

by the beach and a bar. In addition to offering

boutique style scuba diving packages, Zeavola

offers guests several other ways to explore the

beauty of the Phi Phi National Marine Park.

Individually tailored island hopping adventures by

speed boat; scenic tours aboard a traditional Thai

long tail boat; or leisurely sailing aboard their 32’

yacht, Smooth, are all available on request. Laem

Tong Beach is where Zeavola Resort is located. It

is a great place for first time snorkellers, just along

the reef drop off which runs parallel to the beach

and continues all the way up north to the Tong

Cape. Take a kayak and paddle along to explore on

your own.

Offer Receive up to 2 nights free. Offer dates vary.

Call for details.

Prices from £101 per person per night, including

breakfast daily.

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KOH SAMET

Koh Samet is just a

short drive and boat

ride from Bangkok.

Offering a beautiful

natural habitat, this

small island features

a striking southern

coastline and stunning

white sandy beaches.

Something of a secret,

it’s well worth exploring,

particularly for the views

and amazing sunsets.

How to get there

There is a two-and-a-half

hour drive from Bangkok to

Jadet Pier, in the province of

Rayong. This is followed by a

15-minute private speedboat

to Koh Samet, where you’ll

be met and transferred to the

hotel. We can arrange for

you to be met on arrival at

Bangkok Airport and privately

transferred to the pier for the

boat journey, or alternatively

collected from your Bangkok

accommodation. From £90

per person.

BANGKOK

Koh Samet

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PARADEE

Hidden away at the southern tip of Koh Samet,

Paradee features two secluded palm-fringed

beaches. This couples only resort offers a

get-away-from-it-all atmosphere for discerning

travellers. All 40 luxuriously appointed villas

have magnificent views of either the lush tropical

gardens, or white sandy beaches, some with

private pools. Facilities include an infinity pool,

spa, fitness room, library, restaurant, wine cellar

and pool bar. Excellent watersports facilities and

island excursions. Learn to dive on Ao Prao beach.

Accommodation

All 40 luxuriously appointed villas have magnificent

views of either the lush tropical gardens, or white

sandy beaches. The villas are a spacious 100 sqm

and are stylishly furnished in natural materials. All

villas include a private terrace, private pool with

Jacuzzi (except the 10 garden villas), 24-hour

room service,

DVD stereo player

and butler service

to cater for your

every whim.

There is a choice

of Garden villas

(with or without a

private pool) or the

Beachfront pool

villas.


Watersports includes windsurfing, canoeing,

snorkelling or catamaran sailing. Island excursions

can be arranged and also deep-sea fishing trips

are on offer. Learn to dive at the dive centre at Ao

Prao beach. Hotel facilities include an infinity pool,

spa, fitness room, DVD library, babysitting, internet

corner and a library. The restaurant offers all-day

dining, serving a fine selection of International and

Thai cuisine and fine wines from the resort’s wine

cellar. The pool bar is located by the infinity pool

while the sunset bar is the perfect location for a

cocktail as the sun sets over the western beach.


Call for details.


breakfast daily.

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KOH LANTA

Koh Lanta, located

to the south of Krabi,

has converted from

an 1980s backpacker

destination into one

of Thailand’s new

upmarket hotspots.

With its 25-mile

picturesque coastline

and close proximity to

Phuket and Krabi, it’s a

great alternative to the

other busier tropical

islands.

How to get there

There are regular flights from

Bangkok to Krabi. From

Krabi Airport you will be met

and transferred by shared,

air-conditioned mini-bus to

Baan Hua Hin Pier, a journey

time of 1 hour. During the

high season Nov - Apr you

will then travel by boat to

Pimalai - a 1 hour ride. In low

season an alternative crossing

may be required - call for

details. Round trip transfers

by van and scheduled shared

boat transfers are free from

Krabi Airport. Transfers are

available from Phuket Airport

at additional cost. Price on

request.

BANGKOK

Koh Lanta

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PIMALAI RESORT & SPA

The luxurious Pimalai Resort and Spa is built on

a hillside, amongst 100 acres of rainforest and

extends down to a superb 900 metre stretch of

pristine sandy beach. Set within the grounds are

121 elegantly appointed villas. Facing a secluded

bay Pimalai enjoys one of the finest settings for

a beach resort in Thailand. This hotel combines

all the right ingredients; subtle five star comforts,

natural beauty and far from the crowds.

Accommodation

All rooms feature a private balcony or terrace,

a polished teakwood floor, rattan curtains and

rich Thai fabric. Deluxe rooms offer garden

views. Bayfront Deluxe rooms are larger with an

additional living space, a larger balcony and partial

views of the beach and bay. Choice of Pool or

Beach Villas depending on whether you prefer to

be just steps from the sandy beach or high up in

the rainforest with tremendous views of the bay.

Pool and Beach Villas are offered as one, two or

three bedrooms, with all of the Pool Villas featuring

their own private pool.


Available free of charge are canoes, windsurf

boards, sailing boats and boogie boards. There

are no motorised watersports at Pimalai to keep

the bay peaceful. Enjoy regular boat trips to some

beautiful but deserted islands for snorkelling

and diving and even to the more distant Phi Phi

Islands. Elephant rides through the jungle are

available. Bicycles are free to use as are the tennis

courts and table tennis. Hotel facilities include two

infinity-edged swimming pools, a fitness centre,

a library with free internet access, a dive centre

(Nov - Apr) and a spa. Wonderful choice of four

restaurants including the spectacularly located

Seven Seas Restaurant with unparalleled sea

views.

Offer Free roundtrip transfers from Krabi Airport.


breakfast daily.

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KOH YAO NOI

Koh Yao Noi is a quite

unspoilt and largely

untouched island set in

lush tropical vegetation

with a wonderfully

remote feel. Located

in Phang Nga Bay, the

bay between Phuket

and Krabi, it is world

renowned for its unique

limestone formations

and pristine beaches.

How to get there

The best option to get to

Paradise @ Koh Yao is the

resort’s own transfer service.

You will be picked up at either

Phuket or Krabi Airport with

an air-conditioned vehicle, &

taken to Yacht Haven Marina,

Phuket or Tha Lane Pier,

Krabi. From there one of the

resort speedboats will bring

you directly to the resort pier.

Crossing time is an hour.

BANGKOK

Koh Yao

HHHHH

PARADISE @ KOH YAO

Paradise @ Koh Yao is located on Koh Yao Noi

Island, a quiet tropical getaway in the Phang

Nga area between Phuket and Krabi. Well away

from the major tourist spots of Phuket & Krabi,

the resort is still less than one hour away by boat

transfer. The largely untouched island is covered

with lush tropical jungle and limestone cliffs; it is

fringed by beaches and reef, and surrounded by

numerous tiny islands with their own beaches.

Paradise @ Koh Yao commands spectacular views

over the awe inspiring, limestone backdrop of Phang

Nga bay. Set within its own bay at the top of this

remote island, there is no other accommodation

within a 20 minutes drive or boat ride.

Accommodation

The resort features 72 well-appointed studios &

villas designed for maximum connection with the

environment. All of the rooms are open to nature

while providing uncompromising comfort. Rooms

are available with king size, queen, or single beds.


The Seafood Terrace is an 80-seat restaurant

nestled between shady trees right on the beach

while Al Fresco is a 40-seat restaurant with a

wood fired pizza oven right on the beach front.

The Sundowner bar offers unrivalled views across

Phang Nga Bay. The Beach Club is located by

the pool and provides all day dining. The spa is

a fully-equipped outdoor spa. Enjoy Yoga in the

covered open air Yoga Sala on the beach. Nestled

between shady trees, a 350 square metre infinity-

edge salt water swimming pool sits right at the

beachfront providing a welcome refresher from a

swim at the resort beach. Resort library. Activities

include snorkelling, scuba-diving, kayaks, beach

volleyball, mountain bikes, rock climbing and

cooking classes.


Call for details.


breakfast daily.

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KHANOM

Khanom offers several

bays and beaches facing

the Gulf of Thailand in an

area of unspoilt beauty.

This is one of Thailand’s

last pristine destinations;

ideal for those wanting to

get away from the hustle

and bustle and enjoy a

peaceful retreat on white

sandy beaches. Khanom

is known for its rare pink

dolphins. Locals here are

proud of this rare animal

species and wish to

protect its original idyllic

living environment on the

coastline of Khanom.

How to get there The nearest

airport is Surat Thani, just a 40

minute transfer. Alternatively

it is possible to arrive At Don

Sak Pier from Koh Samui and

transfer from there. For those

visiting Elephant Hills it is

possible to end your Jungle

Lake Safari with a transfer to

the Aava Resort & Spa.

When to go March to June

generally sees the driest

weather. September to

December is the wettest period.

BANGKOK

Khanom

HHHH

AAVA RESORT & SPA

Aava Resort & Spa sits on beautiful Nadan beach,

a 9km stretch of pristine golden sands and clear

blue water. A paradise where swaying coconut

palms, lush green landscape, limestone mountains

and virtually untouched beaches still remain in

their natural beauty.

Accommodation and facilities

Aava Resort and Spa consists of 28 unique

bungalows; Deluxe, Superior and Poolside as well

as a Family Villa that can accommodate a family

of 5. Aava Resort has created a fresh unique look

that is easily noticeable in the design and decor of

these rooms. Facilities include a traditional Thai

Spa, two quality restaurants, a pool bar and a

small range of shops.

Activities

Wednesdays Morning Market is held weekly in

Khanom. Aava Resort and Spa offers its guests

free excursion to this unique venue. In addition

activities includes watersports and fishing. For an

opportunity to see the rare Pink Dolphins a boat

excursion can be arranged locally. Your best bet

is an early morning departure, but there is no

guarantee of a sighting.

Offer Free roundtrip transfers from Surat Thani

Airport or from Don Sak Pier (from Koh Samui).

Minimum 5 night stays.


breakfast daily.

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56 inspiredbyasia.co.ukMALAYSIA

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57INSPIRED BY ASIA MALAYSIA

MALAYSIAMalaysia offers a wealth of variety that reflects its diversity of cultures. There is so

much to commend Malaysia. The climate is tropical, the beaches are perfect, the

rainforest scenery is impressive, and Kuala Lumpur offers great shopping, dining

and architecture. The wildlife of Borneo is amazing, and the people are friendly.

Getting there The National carrier, Malaysian Airlines flies direct from the UK to Malaysia. In addition there are several airlines offering in-direct flights to Kuala Lumpur via Dubai (Emirates), Singapore (Singapore Airlines) and Abu Dhabi (Etihad Airways) amongst others. The flying time is generally around 13 hours.

Guide to the country Start your Malaysia holiday in the capital, Kuala Lumpur. This vibrant city offers a contrast in architectural styles with the impressive Petronas Towers standing alongside colonial buildings. The beach resorts of Penang and Langkawi in the west are well-known, offering a good choice of hotels, set on sandy beaches. The east coast of the mainland includes Kuala Terengganu, a region that features picturesque villages where religion and culture are very much a part of everyday life. Malaysian Borneo is a must-see, with its beaches, mountains (Mt.Kinabalu is one of the highest mountains in SE Asia) but above all a wide range of nature, birds and wildlife. Here you can get up close to Orang-utans in Sabah. A great way to experience the country is on a private tour. This allows you to explore the lesser-known locations such as historic Malacca and the tea-growing, colonial hill towns and villages of the Cameron Highlands.

When to go Malaysia has a tropical climate and offers warm temperatures throughout the year, with an average monthly temperature ranging between 23°C and 32°C. There is a clear east-west split in the weather. The west coast islands of Penang, Langkawi and Pangkor are at their best weather-wise during December to April, with the east coast enjoying drier

weather from April to October. The rainy season for the west is April to October, while the east receives stormy monsoon weather during November and December. The best time to visit Borneo is March to October, with the wettest months being November to February. The capital, Kuala Lumpur remains warm year round but has less rainfall during June to August.

Important to note British passport holders don’t need a visa unless they are staying for more than 60 days and the passport has at least six months validity remaining. Malaysia is eight hours ahead of GMT. The currency is Malaysian Ringitt. Vaccinations are not normally required unless you are venturing deep into the jungles of Borneo. For full details of vaccination requirements contact your doctor.

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KUALA LUMPUR

Travel Kuala Lumpur’s

International Airport is well

served by over 50 international

and domestic carriers. Located

in Sapang, 34 miles south of

Kuala Lumpur with a journey

time of around an hour, KLIA

is well connected to the city via

express trains, taxis and buses.

We can arrange for you to be

met on arrival at the airport and

private car transfer to your hotel

from £24 per person. Getting

around the city is easy; taxis

are a very reasonable option.

The LRT system has numerous

stations in the city providing a

frequent service.

Attractions No visitor should

miss a visit to the top of the

Kuala Lumpur Tower. This offers

unique views of the city and

helps with an early orientation.

Of course you can’t fail to

see the Petronas Twin Towers

dominating the skyline and a

visit to the shopping centre at

its base is worthwhile. The Batu

Caves provides an interesting

out-of-town trip to see this

massive limestone outcrop and

its cavernous interior, home to

Hindu deities. Further afi eld a

two-hour drive will take you to

historical Malacca, the oldest

trading port in Malaysia.

When to go Kuala Lumpur is

located close to the equator

and is therefore warm to hot

throughout the year with

temperatures around 30-32°C.

The highest rainfall occurs

during February through to May,

and September, October and

November.

A modern, exciting capital, and home

to the tallest twin-tower building in the

world, Kuala Lumpur retains the charm

of another era, evident in its domes,

mosques and Moorish architecture.

Broad modern highways and glamorous

shopping centres contrast with colonial

mansions and mosques.

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KUALA LUMPUR Hotels

THE MAJESTIC HOTEL KUALA LUMPUR

VILLA SAMADHI

SHANGRI-LA HOTEL KUALA LUMPUR

TRADERS HOTEL KUALA LUMPUR

This city icon includes the original Hotel Majestic, a documented

national heritage site built in 1932. One of the great hotels of Kuala

Lumpur in its time, the refurbished neo-classical suites in the original

Majestic Wing are complemented by the Tower Wing’s contemporary

art-deco styled rooms. Facilities include two pools, gym, spa, orchid

conservatory, bespoke tailor, old-fashioned barber and reading room.

Choice of bars and restaurants.

Offer Complimentary fl owers and bottle of wine for honeymooners.


Villa Samadhi is a boutique hotel located in the leafy embassy district,

just 10 minutes from the city centre. This Thai-styled temptress will

seduce with lantern-lit paths, a curvaceous pool and ultra-private rooms.

Facilities include a restaurant offering Malay and International cuisines

and a bar where complimentary cocktails & canapés between 6.30pm &

7.30pm can be enjoyed. There is a shuttle service to the city centre and

complimentary afternoon tea by the pool and a cognac at turndown.

Offer Receive a 10% discount when staying 5 nights or more.


The Shangri-La Hotel sits amidst lush tropical gardens 5 minutes’ walk

from the Petronas Twin Towers and the city’s main shopping districts. All

guestrooms are elegantly appointed. Horizon Club rooms on fl oors 20

- 23 are available with a supplement and inclusive of club acess. Other

hotel facilities include an outdoor pool, a kids’ pool, sauna, steam room,

jacuzzi, fi tness centre, café, poolside bar and a choice of restaurants,

featuring some of Southeast Asia’s fi nest chefs.

Offer Receive 3 nights for the price of 2 in Suites. Call for details.


This contemporary, new generation hotel located in the heart of Kuala

Lumpur city centre, offers direct access to shopping and entertainment

hubs. All rooms are modern in design and include a choice of Deluxe

rooms with either a city view or Twin Towers view facing the imposing

Petronas Twin Towers. Facilities include two stylish restaurants, a cafe

and a rooftop open-air bar showing the perfect KL-by-night vista, a

relaxing rooftop swimming pool with sundeck, steam and sauna rooms.

Offer Free Club benefi ts 3 nights or more. Conditions apply.


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THE BEST OF MALAYSIA IN STYLE 12 Day Private Tour

Price includes• 11 nights’ hotel accommodation as shown • Private air-conditioned transfers • Breakfast daily• Touring as shown

Day 1 Kuala Lumpur Airport to MalaccaYou will be met on arrival and transferred

to Malacca (2 hours). Stay 2 nights at The

Majestic Malacca including breakfast daily.

Located on the banks of the river, The

Majestic Malacca provides a glimpse into the

splendid saga of an extraordinary empire.

Day 2 Malacca Enjoy a 90-minute Historic

Walk tour with an English-speaking local

guide. The guide will explain the history of

Malacca during the walk, and show some

of the oldest shops, temples and buildings

around the Historical area. Departs at 10am or

5pm. Excluding Wednesdays.

Day 3 Malacca to Kuala Lumpur Transfer

to the capital (2 hours). Stay 2 nights at The

Majestic Hotel Kuala Lumpur which has

been recently restored. This colonial heritage

building, dating from 1932 is a city icon.

Day 4 Kuala Lumpur City Tour Enjoy a 3-4

hour morning or afternoon tour of KL’s sights.

Day 5 KL to the Cameron HighlandsA spectacular 3 hour drive takes you up to

the Cameron Highlands Resort. Located 1467

metres above sea level and overlooking the

golf course and close to the tea plantations.

This boutique hideaway promises all the

splendour, romance and nostalgia of Cameron

Highlands’ grand colonial heritage. Stay 2

nights.

Day 6 Cameron Highlands Enjoy a morning

guided tour of the tea plantations and a short

walk through a forest.

Day 7-12 Cameron Highlands to:EITHER Pangkor Laut Resort Head west

to Lumut (3 hours). From Lumut board a

speedboat for the short crossing to Pangkor

Laut Resort. Stay 5 nights in this privately

owned island of secluded bays and pristine

beaches (see page 68). On your fi nal day

return to KL Airport via the speedboat and a 3

hour and 45-minute private car transfer.

OR Tanjong Jara Resort Head east to the

beautiful beach resort of Tanjong Jara Resort

(page 69) just south of Dungun on Malaysia’s

east coast (5 hours). On your fi nal day a

transfer will be provided for a 1 hour journey

to Kuala Terengganu Airport.

From here Inspired by Asia can arrange your

onwards fl ights (not included).


share.

Experience the best of Malaysia

on this 12 day itinerary. Using

entirely the fi ve star hotels of the

renown YTL Hotels group, enjoy

accommodation of the highest

standard combined with private,

air-conditioned transfers. Enjoy

superb scenery and a range of

experiences, from the bustle of

Kuala Lumpur, to historic Malacca

and the hillside scenery of the

Cameron Highlands. Finally 5

nights to relax on a stunning beach

in either Pangkor Laut or on the

East Coast. Departs daily.

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BEYOND KUALA LUMPUR

THE MAJESTIC MALACCA

CAMERON HIGHLANDS RESORT

Set on the banks of the Malacca River in a UNESCO World Heritage Site,

The Majestic Malacca, a 54-room luxurious boutique hotel, provides an

experience of another age. Its rooms evoke the city’s rich history where

Dutch, Portuguese and Peranakan Chinese styles merge in a cultural

crossroad. From the fine teakwood fittings to the intricate designs of the

original porcelain floor tiles, this classic hotel reflects Malacca’s unique

heritage providing all the comforts required by the discerning traveller.

Offer Early booking discount. Offer dates vary, call for details.


The Cameron Highlands Resort is a colonial hideaway overlooking the

golf course and close to the tea plantations. Its leather couches, timber

beamed ceilings and crackling fireplaces in the library and bar promise

all the splendour of Cameron Highlands’ grand heritage. Spa Village

Cameron Highlands with treatments steeped in the restorative properties

of tea draws inspiration from age-old secrets of local ingredients, perfect

for those looking to escape and experience country-style living.

Offer Early booking discount. Offer dates vary, call for details.


HHHHH

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3 DAY TAMAN NEGARANATIONAL PARK TOUR

Price includes• Chalet accommodation at Mutiara Taman Negara Resort for 2 nights• 2 breakfasts, 1 lunch and 2 dinners• Private car transfer roundtrip from Kuala Lumpur • Shared boat transfers roundtrip• Touring as shown

The first and oldest national park in Malaysia is filled to the brim

with exciting eco-tourism activities. Unspoilt and undisturbed, an

unforgettable experience awaits you.

Day 1 Kuala Lumpur to Kuala Taman Negara

Pick up from your Kuala Lumpur hotel, then a 3 hour drive to Kuala

Tembeling. From here you will take a boat journey for 2 hours to the

National Park. Stay 2 nights at the Mutiara Taman Negara Resort.

This hotel offers comfortable accommodation with either jungle or

river views. After dinner join a night jungle walk.

Day 2 Taman Negara

A full day in the Park. Enjoy a motorised canoe to Lake Berkoh, and

a walk along the Canopy Walkway; the longest canopy walk of its

kind in the world.

Day 3 Taman Negara to Kuala Lumpur Return to the city via the boat journey and private car transfer,

arriving back around 5pm.


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PENANG

Travel There are frequent

scheduled fl ights from Kuala

Lumpur to Penang. The airport

is located 10 miles south of the

capital, Georgetown, and 20

miles south of the main beach

resort area of Batu Ferringhi

with a journey time of around 50

minutes. We can arrange for you

to be met on arrival at Penang

Airport and transferred privately

to your accommodation. From

£14 per person.

Attractions The summit of

Penang Hill, at 720m offers an

interesting drive and breath-

taking views of the Island.

Penang is renowned for its

markets. Shop for bargains at

the night market in Batu

Ferringhi, or the fl ea markets

in Georgetown, the capital

and a lively place to visit in

the evenings. Take a pedalled

trishaw ride through the city’s

narrow streets and see the

largest collection of 18th and

19th century houses in SE Asia.

When to go Penang has

an equatorial climate with

temperatures ranging from a

low of 22°C to a high of 30°C

year round. The driest time is

January and February which

is also the busiest period for

visitors, with the wettest months

from September to November.

Note A Penang Government fee

of 3 Ringgits per room per night

is payable locally.

The Island of Penang, just off the

northwest coast of Malaysia, holds a

fascination for the sunseeker and historian

alike. While the white sandy beaches of

Batu Ferringhi are renowned, Penang is

actually the oldest British settlement in

Malaysia and visitors will delight in the

historic capital Georgetown, a UNESCO

World Heritage site. For a spectacular

view, take a trip up Penang Hill.

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PENANG Hotels

SHANGRI-LA’S RASA SAYANG RESORT & SPA

THE BLUE MANSION

GOLDEN SANDS RESORT PENANG

EASTERN & ORIENTAL HOTEL

Situated along Batu Feringgi Beach, the iconic Shangri-La’s Rasa Sayang

Resort and Spa sits within a 30-acre tropical landscaped garden. The

resort comprises 304 guestrooms and suites, most of which have been

extensively refurbished and expanded. Guests will enjoy a range of

facilities such as a Par-3 pitch and putt golf course, two swimming pools,

Adventure Zone for children, relaxing CHI, The Spa, and restaurants and

bars offering international and local cuisine.

Offer Receive a 20% discount for 5 night stays. Conditions apply.


The Blue Mansion offers 18 beautiful rooms, each individually themed

and furnished with luxurious amenities. This historic property is located

in a Chinese style mansion within historic Georgetown’s UNESCO district.

Rooms are individually designed and air-conditioned and furnished with

style. Facilities include a library, a bar and garden. Allow 30 minutes

for a transfer from Penang International Airport. Guests on a self drive

itinerary have free parking.



Located on Batu Ferringhi, Penang’s fi nest beach and set amidst tropical

gardens facing the sea and sandy beach, Golden Sands Resort is part of

the renowned Shangri-La Hotels and Resorts. The resort is conveniently

close to the night market. Rooms offer garden or sea views. Facilities

include an outdoor pool, a children’s pool, fi tness centre, a Par-3 pitch

and putt golf course and an Adventure Zone. Choice of four bars and

restaurants.

Offer Receive a 20% discount for 5 night stays. Conditions apply.


The Eastern & Oriental Hotel is the embodiment of both a special time

and a special place. For well over a century ‘The E&O’ has stood as a

testament to the grand elegance of the British colonial era. Enjoying prime

sea frontage, this luxurious all-suite hotels offers classic elegance with

views of the gardens, the pool or out to sea. Distinctively designed rooms

are spacious and full of character. Facilities include a pool, gym, sauna,

restaurants and bars. Walking distance to the centre of Georgetown.

Offer Explore Penang with the complimentary shuttle service.


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LANGKAWI

Travel There are regular fl ights

to Langkawi from Kuala Lumpur,

a fl ying time of an hour. The

airport is in the west of the

island, a 25 minute drive to the

main town of Kuah, but transfer

times vary greatly depending

on the location of your

accommodation. The Andaman

and The Datai hotels are located

20 miles north of the airport with

a transfer time of 40 minutes.


met on arrival and transferred

privately to your hotel from £11

per person.

Activities Take the cable car

to the summit of a mountain

at 700 metres to walk across

the sky bridge and enjoy

spectacular views. There are

also jungle treks to be taken in

the area. There is a very good

half day island-hopping cruise

that includes a visit to the

beautiful Lake of the Pregnant

Maiden.

When to go Langkawi is warm

all year round with temperatures

around 30°C, occasionally

dropping to 22°C. The hottest

month is usually February and

the coolest is October. The driest

and so most popular period for

visitors is from mid-November to

April. The rainy season is from

September to early November,

though the rainfall is mixed with

periods of sunshine.

Langkawi is an archipelago of 99 tropical

islands but with one island in particular that

plays host to a range of accommodation.

Located 20 miles off the north western

coast of Malaysia, Langkawi is a beautiful

but quiet island; ideal for relaxation but

with very little in the way of nightlife

compared to its neighbour, Penang.

Visitors will enjoy the miles of sandy

beaches, ancient rainforests and quaint

villages that Langkawi has to offer.

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LANGKAWI Hotels

The Datai Langkawi is an outstanding hotel set in an ancient rainforest above a private sandy beach

which ranks among National Geographic’s Top 10 Beaches. An ideal choice for honeymooners or couples

wanting an idyllic break in a beautiful setting. Featuring 54 Deluxe and Premium rooms, 16 suites, 40

Superior and Pool villas and 14 villas, all with verandahs which look out to the landscape. Facilities include

2 pools, a golf course, spa, gym, water sports, tennis, library, bar and a choice of 4 restaurants.



The Danna Langkawi is surrounded by a sandy beach, marina and lush tropical hills. This 5-star luxury

hotel echoes colonial era architecture in a Mediterranean ambience and is located at Telaga Harbour on

the west side of Langkawi, just a 15 minute drive from the airport. The spacious 125 rooms and suites

include a balcony and views of the adjacent marina, seaviews, and rainforest. Facilities include a choice

of bars and restaurants, the largest infi nity pool on the island, cafe, fi tness centre, kids’ club and spa.



THE DATAILANGKAWIHHHHH

THE DANNALANGKAWIHHHHH

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LANGKAWI Hotels

Located on a magnifi cent sweep of private sandy beach, The Andaman Langkawi is a tropical paradise

with spectacular views of ancient virgin rainforests and mountains beyond. Deluxe rooms offer a choice of

rainforest or sea views (Luxury Sea View room pictured). Facilities include a large freeform swimming pool,

Spa, kids’ club and gym. Beachfront bar and a choice of four restaurants. Activities include non-motorised

water sports and guided nature walks. Just minutes away from an outstanding new golf course.

Offer Receive up to 2 nights free. Dates vary, call for details.


Casa del Mar is a boutique hotel on beautiful Pantai Cenang beach, just a 10-minute drive from the

airport and within walking distance to local cafes, shops and restaurants. From its Mediterranean

architecture to its relaxed and comfortable interior, Casa del Mar is a perfect oasis for couples looking

for a private and peaceful retreat. All rooms are sea-facing with fl oor-to-ceiling sliding picture windows.

Facilities include a pool, a pool bar, a spa, a wine bar and restaurant. No children under 12 at this resort.

Offer Receive a 5% discount when staying 14 nights. Year round.


THE ANDAMANLANGKAWIHHHHH

CASA DEL MARHHHH

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LANGKAWI Hotels

The Meritus Pelangi Beach Resort is located along the beautiful and scenic stretch of the famous Cenang

white sandy beach. The breathtaking view begins the minute you step into the lobby and continues

throughout the 31 acres of award-winning landscaped garden. Raised on stilts, all guest rooms feature

balconies, with either garden, pool or sea views. Facilities include two outdoor swimming pools, a fi tness

centre, a spa, tennis, squash, a kids’ club and two bars and choice of three restaurants.



Located on one of the world’s best beaches, the Tanjung Rhu Resort offers tranquillity and romance

in Northern Langkawi. With absolute beachfront facing a two-kilometre private beach guests will enjoy

stunning views towards limestone peaks rising out of the ocean. The 136 rooms offer a choice of garden

or sea views. Facilities include a choice of restaurants and bars, 3 pools, a spa, fi tness centre, non-

motorised watersports and tennis. Room only or all inclusive options at this resort.

Offer Receive a 30% discount for booking in advance. Call for details.


MERITUS PELANGI BEACHRESORT & SPA

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TANJUNG RHURESORTHHHHH

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PANGKOR LAUT

Pangkor Laut is an

island located off

the coast of Lumut,

on the west side of

Peninsular Malaysia

and offers some of the

world’s finest beaches.

The internationally

acclaimed Pangkor

Laut Resort occupies

an entire island and

pampers like no other.

How to get there

Lumut is the gateway to

Pangkor - a 4 hour drive from

Kuala Lumpur airport. From

Lumut there is a scheduled

speedboat service to Pangkor

Laut (15-minute crossing,

four times a day). Pangkor

Laut Resort also offers a

24-hour speedboat service,

price on request. We can

arrange for you to be met at

KL Airport (or collected from

KL accommodation) and

privately transferred by car

to Marina Island Pangkor in

Lumut, to meet the pre-

booked scheduled speedboat

transfer.

KUALA LUMPUR

Pangkor

Penang

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PANGKOR LAUT RESORT

Pangkor Laut is a privately owned island of

secluded bays and pristine beaches located three

miles off the west coast of Malaysia. Situated on

this exotic island is the award-winning Pangkor

Laut Resort which features a range of traditional

villas and suites. Nearby Emerald Bay, the

resort’s private beach has often been cited as

one of the most beautiful beaches in the world.

With no other resorts on the island, guests of the

exclusive Pangkor Laut Resort have the island to

themselves.

Accommodation

The signature Sea villas stand elegantly on stilts

over the sea. Each private villa is airy and spacious

and linked by a wooden walkway. Garden and Hill

villas offer superb views of the rainforest. Beach

villas are set in the gardens with views of the sea.

Spa villas are raised on stilts over the sea but have

the benefit of direct access to the Spa Village. All

rooms include a huge bathtub and shower, and a

balcony with deckchairs.


Accompany the resort’s resident naturalist on a

guided walk through the rainforest. Choose to

explore the island on a kayak or chase the wind

on water-skis. Enjoy a sunset cruise on the resort’s

stylish teakwood boat. Guests can play golf at

the Damai Laut Golf and Country Club located

on the mainland. Adventurous fishing trips and

island excursions are available. For more peaceful

activities there is Tai Chi, Yoga and cooking

classes. Resort facilities include two swimming

pools (one only for spa guests) a jet pool and

cold dip, gymnasium, tennis, squash and spa

treatments at Spa Village. This resort also offers

many dining opportunities with a wide range of

restaurants offering cuisine from around the world

as well as private dining experiences at several

stunning locations.

Offer Receive 5 nights for the price of 4. Offer

dates vary. Call for details.


breakfast daily.

MALAYSIA

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EAST COAST MALAYSIA

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TANJONG JARA RESORT

Set on the East Coast of Peninsular Malaysia,

Tanjong Jara Resort is a sanctuary of luxury

and well-being steeped in age-old Malay

traditions. The Resort’s elegantly crafted

wooden buildings rest on a 17-hectare site

facing the South China Sea. Designed to

reflect the grandeur of 17th century Malay

palaces, this 99-room resort offers an

authentic taste of the region’s spirit. The

Resort is located between Kuala Terengganu

in the North and Kuantan in the South. The

riverine town of Dungun lies west of Tanjong

Jara and is eight kms away.

Accommodation

Bumbung and Serambi rooms are situated

within double storey units overlooking the

tropical gardens and are constructed from

warm timber in traditional Malay style.

Bumbung rooms occupy the upper floor, while

Serambi rooms (pictured, above) include a

partially covered verandah and are located on

the ground floor. Both these room categories

also offer sea view upgrades. The single storey,

semi-detached Anjung rooms are beach

cottages offering sea views.

Facilities and activities

Tanjong Jara Resort includes two pools, tennis,

bike hire, river cruises, cooking classes, an

award-winning Spa Village, two restaurants,

bars and a library. Diving and snorkelling

excursions are available from March to

October.

Offer Receive 5 nights for the price of 4. Offer

dates vary. Call for details.



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BORNEO

Travel There are no direct

fl ights to Kota Kinabalu from

the UK, but the airport is well

served with scheduled fl ights

via Asian hubs, such as Kuala

Lumpur and Singapore. Flying

time from Kuala Lumpur is 2½

hours. The airport is fi ve miles

from Kota Kinabalu. We can


arrival and privately transferred

to your accommodation.

Prices vary according to the

distance from the airport to the

accommodation. Ask us for

details.

Activities Most visitors will want

to see Borneo’s icon, the orang-

utan. This can be done with a

day trip to the Sepilok Orang-

Utan Centre, at Sandakan, or

a stay at Shangri-La’s Rasa Ria

which has its own orang-utan

sanctuary. Day trips can be

made to visit Mt.Kinabalu, and

for the adventurous a 3 day

trek to the very summit can be

arranged (advance pre-booking

essential). The Danum Valley

is set amidst a vast tropical

rainforest with great opportunity

to see orang utan and monkeys.

When to go Borneo is at its best

during March to October. The

rainy season is usually from

November through to February,

but during this time you can

expect sunshine amidst the

downpours. Expect hot and

humid weather all year round.

Divided from Peninsular Malaysia by the

South China Sea is the island of Borneo.

Sabah is one of two Malaysian states on

the island and is located on the north-east

coast. Its capital, Kota Kinabalu serves as

the gateway to the attractions of Borneo,

including the orang-utan and the country’s

highest mountain, Mt. Kinabalu which, at

4095 metres, dominates the surrounding

jungle-covered hills.

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BORNEO Hotels

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SHANGRI-LA’S RASA RIA RESORT & SPA

The Shangri-La’s Rasa Ria Resort & Spa faces

a 3-kilometre long sweep of pristine, white

sandy beach, backed by forested hills. Choose

from the Garden Wing or more luxurious

Ocean Wing for your accommodation.

Uniquely this resort includes a 64-acre

conservation nature reserve where guests can

view the twice daily feeding of Orang Utan.

Accommodation

The recently refurbished Garden Wing features

rooms with forest, garden or sea views and a

private balcony. As a unique new wing, the

Ocean Wing offers the choicest hospitality

experience for discerning travellers who desire

privacy and the finest in luxury living. All 173

opulently furnished rooms face the sunny

wind-swept seashore. Each 90-square-metre

Premier Room (pictured left) features a private

oversized outdoor bathtub and large daybed

for the ultimate in relaxation.

Facilities and activities

Facilities include a pool for each wing (the pool

for the Ocean Wing is exclusively for Ocean

Wing guests), an 18-hole golf course, spa,

fitness centre, tennis, watersports and a wide

range of bars and restaurants.

The Rasa Ria Nature Reserve

The Rasa Ria Nature Reserve was established

by Shangri-La’s Rasa Ria Resort & Spa,

Kota Kinabalu in collaboration with the State

Wildlife Department of Sabah. This protected

ecological space aims to facilitate rehabilitation

programmes for endangered species of

animals as well as those endemic in Sabah.

The Rasa Ria Nature Reserve provides a home

until they are ready to be rehabilitated into

their natural habitat. There are two feedings

per day and for a small fee (paid locally)

guests can attend. A unique chance to get

close to the Orang Utan as they swing in to the

feeding platforms. Reservations can be made

at the hotel.

Offer Receive up to 2 nights free. Offer dates

vary, call for details.

Prices from £70 per person per night, based on

room only.

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BORNEO Hotels

Located just 15 minutes off the coast of Kota Kinabalu, the Gaya Island Resort is situated on Pulau Gaya,

an island set in a natural marine conservation area. The resort is fringed by a sandy beach, verdant jungle,

surrounded by coral reefs and enjoys views toward majestic Mt. Kinabalu. Accommodation is spread

throughout lush rainforest and features 120 hillside villas and a two-bedroom suite. Facilities include a

remarkable spa set in a mangrove, a pool, bar and restaurants.

Offer Receive 5 nights for the price of 4. Dates vary. Call for details.


Bunga Raya Island Resort is a luxurious jewel set on a coral reef island just off the coast of Borneo

and a 30 minute car and boat journey from Kota Kinabalu. A secluded island hideaway of 47 timbered

villas, it is framed by white sand beach and virgin jungle. Hillside villas reflect the simplicity of the

Borneo architectural style. A hilltop spa blends the finest Traditional Asian and Western treatments using

restorative powers of indigenous plants and oils. Free boat to sister hotel, Gayana Eco Resort.

Offer Receive 7 nights for the price of 6. Offer dates vary. Call for details.

Prices from £155 per person per night, including breakfast and boat transfers.

GAYA ISLAND RESORTHHHHH

BUNGA RAYA ISLAND RESORT

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BORNEO Hotels

The Borneo Rainforest Lodge is nestled in a magnificent setting alongside the Danum River flowing

through a rainforest that is home to a vast array of undisturbed flora and fauna. The 3 Premium Villas

and 28 individual chalets include a fan and en-suite bathroom. Experience the 27 metre high canopy

walkway and the scenery from the viewing platform overlooking the river. There are several trails around

the Lodge. Or just relax on the verandah. 2 Hour transfer from Lahad Datu Airport.

Prices from £695 per person for a 3 day package including 2 nights accommodation, all meals, transfers

from Lahad Datu Airport and activities.

Shangri-La’s Tanjung Aru Resort & Spa is located in the capital; Kota Kinabalu. This award winning

492 room seaside resort is just 10 minutes from the airport, city, coral islands and is surrounded by 25

acres of lush gardens. The Kinabalu Wing sea-view rooms offer views of the South China Sea and Mount

Kinabalu while all rooms in the Tanjung Wing rooms face the sea. Facilities include a pool, a kids water

play area and club, tennis, nine-hole pitch and putt golf, a leisure centre, health club and spa.



BORNEO RAINFORESTLODGEHHHH

SHANGRI-LA’STANJUNG ARURESORT & SPA

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BORNEO Small Group Tours

3 DAY ORANG UTAN AND WILDLIFE TOUR

Price includes• Return flights from Kota Kinabalu• Hotel transfers • 1 night Abai Jungle Lodge• 1 night Kinabatangan Riverside Lodge• 2 breakfasts, 3 lunches and 2 dinners• Touring as shown• English-speaking guide• Air-conditioned vehicles

Combine a visit to the Sepilok Orang Utan Rehabilitation Centre with 2

nights in spectacular jungle and river scenery in search of wildlife.

Day 1 Kota Kinabalu to Sandakan Early morning transfer from your

hotel to the airport then a short flight to Sandakan. Short drive to the

Sepilok Orang Utan Rehabilitation Centre. Wtiness the feeding of Orang

Utan at the feeding platform. After lunch enjoy a one hour boat ride

through spectacular scenery. Check in to the Abai Jungle Lodge for a 1

night stay. In the late afternoon and sunset cruise in search of wildlife.

Return to the Lodge for dinner.

Day 2 River Cruise An early morning river trip to Pitas Lake to observe

wildlife. Join in a tree planting project with the locals before lunch. Then

cruise to Sukau Village in search of primates especially the Endemic

Proboscis Monkeys and other wildlife. Check-in to the Kinabatangan

Riverside Lodge for 1 night.

Day 3 Sandakan to Kota Kinabalu Return to Kota Kinabalu via

Sandakan. Then, if required, a transfer to your hotel.


3 DAY DANUM VALLEY TOUR

Price includes• Return flights from Kota Kinabalu• Hotel transfers• 2 nights at Borneo Rainforest Lodge • 2 breakfasts, 3 lunches and 2 dinners• Touring as shown• English-speaking guide• Air-conditioned vehicles

Enjoy a three day small group tour to the spectacular Danum Valley

one of the richest conservation areas in the world with over 200

species of tree per hectare. A complex ecosystem, the forest is a

home to many endangered wildlife.

Day 1 Kota Kinabalu to the Danum Valley Transfer from your

hotel to Kota Kinabalu Airport for a short flight to Lahad Datu. Drive

for 80km through selectively logged forest, cocoa and soft-wood

plantations before arriving at the Borneo Rainforest Lodge, located

beside the Danum River (see page 73). The area is home to the

full range of Sabah’s lowland fauna, including the rare Sumatran

Rhinoceros, Elephants, Clouded Leopards, and Orang Utans. In the

afternoon an introduction to the forest through nature trails to the

tree top Canopy Walkway. At night, and if weather permits, one can

go spotlighting to view some nocturnal animals.

Day 2 Danum Valley After breakfast, spend the day exploring the

forest for birds and mammals, visiting an escarpment with ancient

burial coffins. Trek to a waterfall for a dip in refreshing rock pools.

In the afternoon, jungle trek or go “tubing” down the Danum River.

Day 3 Danum Valley to Kota Kinabalu Morning at leisure before

your return journey to Kota Kinabalu.


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BORNEO Small Group Tours

5 DAY SUKAU & DANUM VALLEY TOUR

Price includes• Return flights from Kota Kinabalu• Hotel transfers • 2 nights Kinabatangan Riverside Lodge• 2 nights Borneo Rainforest Lodge• 4 breakfasts, 5 lunches and 4 dinners• Touring as shown• English-speaking guide• Air-conditioned vehicles

Day 1 Kota Kinabalu to Sandakan Early morning transfer from your

hotel to Kota Kinabalu Airport. Short flight to Sandakan. Drive for

approximately 30 minutes to Sepilok Orang Utan Rehabilitation Centre.

At this Centre, observe man’s closest relative “the Orang Utan” being

rehabilitated to become wild in their natural habitat and experience

a walk in the Tropical Lowland Dipterocarp Forest of Borneo. Witness

the feeding of Orang Utan at the feeding platform and proceed to

the Orang Utan Nursery. Later, continue to the Bornean Sun Bear

Conservation Centre. After lunch in the Sepilok area enjoy a one hour

boat cruise through spectacular scenery. This is a wonderful journey

of discovery which starts from the waters of the Sulu Sea of Sandakan

town through magnificent scenery of the Mangrove Forest. After lunch,

cruise up river to Sukau village in search of primates especially the

Endemic Proboscis Monkeys, birds and other wildlife. Arrive Sukau,

check in at Kinabatangan Riverside Lodge. Late afternoon, river cruise

to Menanggul River, a small tributary of the Kinabatangan. Return to the

lodge for dinner.

Day 2 Wildlife river cruises Wake up by the calls of gibbons and

hornbills. Early morning, take a river trip to the Ox-Bow Lake to observe

wildlife and experience the early morning river ambience of the longest

river in Sabah. Return to the lodge for breakfast and then time at leisure.

After lunch an afternoon river cruise to search for more wildlife. Dinner

and overnight at Kinabatangan Riverside Lodge.

Day 3 Travel to the Danum Valley Early morning, transfer overland to

Lahad Datu. Drive 50 miles through selectively logged forest, cocoa and

softwood plantations before arriving at the Borneo Rainforest Lodge

(see page 73) beside the Danum River on the edge of 438 sq km of

undisturbed lowland rainforest. The Lodge is home to the full range

of Sabah’s lowland fauna, including the rare Sumatran Rhinoceros,

Elephants, Clouded Leopards, and Orang Utans. Some 275 species of

birds have been recorded in the area. Explore nature trail and nearby

river. In the evening a slide show and (if weather permits) spotlighting to

view some nocturnal animals. Overnight at Borneo Rainforest Lodge.

Day 4 The Danum Valley Morning birdwalk before breakfast. Spend the

whole day exploring the forest for birds and mammals, leading up to

an escarpment with ancient burial coffins. Trek to a waterfall and dip in

refreshing rock pools. Lunch at the lodge. In the afternoon, jungle walk

through trails leading to canopy walkway. Overnight at Borneo Rainforest

Lodge.

Day 5 Danum Valley to Kota Kinabalu Morning at leisure before your

return journey to Kota Kinabalu.


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78 inspiredbyasia.co.ukBALI

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79INSPIRED BY ASIA BALI

BALIBali, the ‘Island of the Gods’, is one of 17,000 islands that make up Indonesia. Ly-

ing approximately 10° south of the Equator, it is a country with a rich cultural tradi-

tion offering a myriad of delights for the visitor: golden beaches, lush green

rice terraces, unique arts and crafts, and a friendly and hospitable people.

Getting there There are flights into Bali’s Denpasar Airport from Singapore, Bangkok, Hong Kong, Kuala Lumpur and Tokyo. There are no direct flights from the UK, so most UK visitors combine a Bali stay with a city break in one of the above transit points. Flying time is approximately 15 hours but varies according to the transit city.

Guide to the country The Indonesia island of Bali offers some superb beaches. Nusa Dua is Bali’s prime tourist resort and has been landscaped into beautiful gardens providing the setting for a range of beachfront upmarket hotels. Sanur Beach is wide and sandy. Seminyak is located close to the busy resort of Kuta, but is quiet and sophisticated and offers a good choice of restaurants. Jimbaran is much quieter but with a safe swimming beach and chic restaurants. Ubud, 20 miles inland from Bali Airport, is 600m above sea level. A collection of traditional villages, set in the lush, green countryside, Ubud offers superb hill and valley views and an interesting alternative to the beaches and is renowned as a centre for arts and crafts. The rest of the island offers spectacular scenery and is much less developed for tourism, rewarding visitors with a more authentic Balinese experience. Situated 34 miles to the east of Bali, lies the island of Lombok, a 25-minute flight. Though relatively new to tourism, Lombok is fast emerging as one of Indonesia’s best kept secrets.

When to go With its proximity to the Equator, Bali is hot and generally sunny all year round, with temperatures averaging between the high 20°C and low 30°C. The dry season is May to September, with the monsoon season from October to April, when short, sharp downpours mix with sunshine. February and March can be particularly hot and humid. May, June and July are usually considered to be the best months for a holiday in Bali. Bear in mind that evenings and nights can be cool up in the hills of Ubud.

Important to note A visa is not required for British Passport holders staying in Indonesia for less than 30 days. Please note your passport must have at least six months validity

remaining. Bali is eight hours ahead of GMT. The currency is Indonesian Rupiah, but you are advised to bring US Dollars with you. Vaccinations are not essential for visitors to Bali, Lombok or the Gili Islands but contact your Doctor for full details. Nyepi Day (dates vary each year) is silence day – a very important ritual for the Balinese. Note that on this day travel is not permited so it is best to avoid arriving, or departing Bali on this day.

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BALI Hotels

The award-winning AYANA Resort and Spa is located on 90 hectares of cliff-top land perched above

Jimbaran Bay. Majestic sunsets and ocean-front views are complemented by a white-sand beach and

shared facilities as Bali’s only integrated resort with RIMBA Jimbaran Bali including full access to all dining

and recreation at both AYANA and RIMBA and complimentary resort shuttle. There are 15 restaurants and

bars including the famous Rock Bar; 11 swimming pools; a top class spa, golf-putting and fitness centre.

Offer Complimentary transportation service. Call for details.


Spa Village Resort Tembok, Bali is a 31-room resort located in the beautiful village of Tembok on the

pristine northern part of the island. This is a resort for those seeking a sanctuary away from the pressures

of the world. Choose from a range of experiences; massage therapy and treatments, creative stimulation

or a range of exercises, and all in a landscape of natural beauty. Spa, pool, gym, yoga, and an open

restaurant with stunning sea views. Excursions include diving and snorkelling. Kamar room pictured.

Offer Receive 7 nights for the price of 6. Offer dates vary, call for details.

Prices from £102 per person per night including 3 meals per day and a daily spa treatment.

AYANA RESORT & SPAHHHHH

SPA VILLAGE RESORTTEMBOK, BALI

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BALI Hotels

The Puri Santrian Beach Resort and Spa is situated along the coast of upscale Sanur on the tranquil

south-eastern side of the island. Sanur offers a range of bars and restaurants close to the hotel. This family

owned and operated hotel offers a choice of room types; Superior, for those who wish to be close to the

water and Bungalows, traditional Balinese style and the luxurious Santrian Club Wing with its own pool

and stylish rooms (breakfast included). Facilities include a pool, spa, watersports, bar and two restaurants.

Offer Receive up to 3 nights free. Dates vary, call for details.


The Bali Pavilions are 23 private villas, most with a private pool, located in Sanur, close to a lagoon that

is fringed by an extensive reef, and bordered on the other side by a long white beach (a few minutes

walk). Each villa has a private entrance, private patio and sundeck area and are surrounded by tropical

gardens. The two bedroom villa has a full kitchen and is ideal for families. Facilities include a pool, spa

and restaurant. A short walk to Sanur offers a good choice of bars, cafés and restaurants.



PURI SANTRIAN BEACHRESORT & SPA

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BALI PAVILIONSHHHHH

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BALI Hotels

Cocooned along a pristine beach on Bali’s southwest coast, Alila Seminyak is a stunning new resort that

stands on the last remaining undeveloped beachfront site in Seminyak. The close proximity of the resort to

the centre of Seminyak is an undeniable attraction, a few minutes’ stroll from the resort brings you to the

fashionable streets of the town that buzz with an air of laidback sophistication. 240 chic rooms and suites.

Facilities include a choice of restaurants and bars, outdoor pools, gym, spa and watersports.

Offer Receive a 10% discount when booking in advance.


The award-winning chic Samaya Seminyak features 23 Pool Villas, and 7 Royal Pavilion Villas, set on the

beachside part of the property alongside the famous Seminyak Beach. The 22 Royal Courtyard Villas are

in a peaceful village courtyard setting, favoured by many, as they are larger with quaint tropical gardens

and a good size lap pool, and located just a few minutes away by golf buggy ride across the street.

Facilities include a pool, spa, restaurant, bar, gym and a daily shuttle bus to nearby Seminyak.

Offer Receive 7 nights for the price of 6. One Bedroom Villa. Dates vary.


ALILA SEMINYAK BALIHHHHH

THE SAMAYASEMINYAK BALI

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BALI Hotels

The Conrad Bali hotel is only 10 kilometres from the International Airport and is adjacent to the Nusa Dua

resort area. Nestled in 6.8 acres of secluded tropical gardens with cascading waterfalls and a pristine 350

metre beach the Conrad features 360 guestrooms and suites overlooking the ocean, lagoons, resort or

gardens. Facilities include a 33-metre pool, jogging track with landscaped gardens, floodlit tennis courts,

kids club, fitness club and spa. Facilities include three restaurants, a cafe and bar.



After the recent multi-million dollar refurbishment, Nusa Dua Beach Hotel & Spa now boasts an

extensive range of rejuvenated rooms and facilities while retaining the Balinese heritage with a new feel.

Nestled within over 23 acres of sculptured gardens, the resort, with its 382 guestrooms and suites offers

stunning views of tropical gardens, pool or the ocean. The resort facilities include three pools, kid’s club,

spa, fitness centre, water sports and choice of five restaurants and four bars

Offer For stays of 7 nights or more receive one free massage and dinner per person. Conditions apply.


CONRAD BALIRESORT & SPA

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NUSA DUABEACH HOTEL & SPA

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UBUD Hotels

The Uma By Como is perfectly located on the fringe of Ubud, overlooking the Tjampuhan Valley, just a

short drive to the centre of Ubud. This is a stylish hotel and ideal for guests wanting to be able to walk to

bars and restaurants, but still be in a peaceful retreat. Terrace rooms offer garden views while the Garden

rooms are spacious and include a private courtyard. Facilities include a pool, 2 restaurants, a bar, a gym

and spa.

Offer Receive 4 nights for the price of 3. Offer dates vary. Call for details.


The Alila Ubud is a tranquil and secluded hillside retreat high on the edge of the rich green Ayung River

valley in Bali’s central foothills. The resort is just minutes from Ubud. Blending contemporary design and

traditional Balinese architecture, the secluded courtyards, spacious terraces and private gardens create

an intimate feeling. The 56 rooms offer panoramic views of the Ayung River and surrounding volcanoes.

Facilities include a spectacular pool, a spa, bicycle hire, library, bar and restaurant.

Offer Receive 4 nights for the price of 3 nights. Offer dates vary, call for details.


UMA BY COMOHHHHH

ALILA UBUDHHHHH

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UBUD Hotels

Hanging Gardens Ubud is set in 3.2 hectares of stunning jungle landscape on an almost 45 degree

incline, located 20 minutes north of Ubud. This enchanting five star boutique resort, designed in complete

harmony with nature, has 44 private individual villas and suites with thatched roofs, each enhanced by its

own luxurious granite infinity pool, rippling into the jungle below. Hanging Gardens Ubud offers supreme

luxury and ultimate privacy combined with five star service, set in the abundant and breathtaking Ubud

countryside.



Set on a hillside in Ubud, the Komaneka at Bisma features stunning river views and beyond to rice fields

and plantations. Sit back and relax on your private balcony and enjoy the stunning natural scenery. The

resort facilities include two impressive swimming pools, a spa, fine dining restaurant offering Indonesian

specialities, library and fitness centre. Great accommodation choices with Suites, 1 and 2 bedroom Pool

Villas and Family Pool Villas. This property is a 19-mile drive from Bali Airport.

Offer Complimentary daily afternoon tea with cakes.


HANGING GARDENS UBUD

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KOMANEKAAT BISMAHHHHH

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THE BEST OF BALI 6 Day Private Tour

Price includes• 5 nights hotel accommodation • Breakfast daily, 3 lunches and 1 dinner • Air-conditioned vehicle • English-speaking guide

Day 1 Arrival morning flight to Bali Drive to

West Bali via Bedugul a mountain resort with

its lush tropical vegetation, with hair pin road

crossing down the hill of Gitgit. Lunch will be

provided enroute. Accommodation: Mimpi

Resort in a Patio Room

Day 2 West Bali to North Bali Snorkeling

at Menjangan Island. The boundaries of

the national park extend across the bay

and include this small, unpopulated island

and its coral reefs, said to have some of

the finest diving in the archipelago. In the

afternoon depart to Lovina (North Bali).

Accommodation: Puri Bagus Lovina in a

Superior Garden View room.

Day 3 North Bali to East Bali Early morning

Dolphin tour ( local boat ). Then a visit to

Kintamani, a village located on the rim of Mt

Batur Volcano. Enjoy your Lunch at Kintamani

Restaurant overlooking the crater and lake

Batur. In the afternoon visit Besakih, the

biggest temple in Bali, then drive via Putung

village with its beautiful scenery of terraced

rice fields. Accommodation: Puri Bagus

Candidasa in a Superior Garden View room.

Day 4 East Bali to Ubud Morning at leisure.

After Lunch a scenic two-hour drive to Ubud.

On the way, explore the east of Bali by visiting

Tenganan Village, Goa Lawah stopping at

Klungkung to see the Royal Court of Justice

‘Kerta Gosa’. Accommodation: Wapa di Ume

in a Lanai Rice Terrace room for 2 nights.

Day 5 Ubud Pick up from your hotel in Ubud

for a morning adventure cycling Mount

Batur. Break away from the main roads and

discover hidden Bali along the paths and trails

leading down from the volcanic Mount Batur.

Beginning with morning tea on the slopes

of this still active volcano, the tour takes you

down through sleepy villages, past ancient

temples and along leafy lanes through the

rainforest that graces the mountain slopes.

Stopping at villages to experience traditional

Bali life and concludes with lunch in the town

of Ubud. An evening with the elephants. On

arrival at the park you can interact and hand

feed the elephants while enjoying the exotic

botanical gardens. Next it’s off to the jungle on

your elephant chauffeur with a Safari Under

the Stars before returning for a delicious 4

course dinner in a Palm Grove dining area.

Day 6 Depart Bali Morning at leisure before

your transfer to the airport. Or we can arrange

further hotel accommodation to extend your

stay.


share.

Want to discover the real Bali?

This 6 day private tour will take

you out into the lush, tropical

countryside of terraced rice

fields, to villages renowned for

their arts and crafts, to Hindu

temples and local markets.

Witness the spectacular

mountain scenery, snorkel off

deserted beaches and meet

the local people as they go

about their daily lives. This is

an adventurous tour but with

comfortable accommodation

throughout. Departs daily.

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LOMBOK and GILI ISLANDS Hotels

The Hotel Villa Ombak, the first international hotel on the magical island of Gili Trawangan, features the

traditional building style of Lombok, and its neighbouring islands, to blend harmoniously with the island’s

landscape. Set on a beautiful sandy beach. Accommodation ranges from budget hotel rooms to deluxe

family bungalows. Facilities include a swimming pool, spa, diving academy, watersports, restaurant, cafe

and choice of bars. Excursions to nearby islands including Lombok.



HOTEL VILLA OMBAKHHHH

Ideally located on Senggigi Beach, on the lush western coast of Lombok, within walking distance of

the town’s shops, restaurants and bars. Polished timbers, warm inviting textiles, and cosy furnishings

together with an idyllic beach make this a popular place to stay. Some rooms with balcony or private

terrace offering guests the chance to enjoy a fabulous Senggigi sunset. Facilities include a pool, spa,

health club, sauna, tennis, bars and restaurants.

Offer Receive 6 nights for the price of 5. Dates vary. Call for details.


SHERATON SENGGIGIBEACH RESORT

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90 inspiredbyasia.co.ukINDOCHINA

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91INSPIRED BY ASIA INDOCHINA

INDOCHINAOne of the most beautiful and unspoilt areas of Asia, Indochina is a region of paddy

fields, ancient monuments, mountainous jungle, stunning coasts and vibrant cities.

Take in the slow pace of Vietnam with its French colonial cities, the amazing temple

complexes of Angkor Wat, or the laid-back atmosphere of Luang Prabang, Laos.

Getting there Vietnam Airlines fly directly to Hanoi and Saigon from London Heathrow. Other popular routes include flights via Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur and Singapore. Flying time to the region is around 13 hours.

Guide to the countries Vietnam offers two outstanding cities in Saigon and Hanoi. The capital Hanoi in particular has retained much of its character and history and is the gateway to one of the region’s most amazing sights; Halong Bay. The beaches of Vietnam are becoming more and more popular, with resorts such as Hoi An, Phan Thiet and Nha Trang, but there is so much more to these areas, with impressive historical temples and busy, photogenic ports. The World Heritage site of Angkor Wat, Cambodia is famous for its beauty and splendour and a must-see on any Indochina itinerary. Luang Prabang, in the north of neighbouring Laos, is a tranquil town on the banks of the Mekong River, providing visitors with a taste of authentic Asia.

When to go For Hanoi the summer months from May to October can be hot with regular downpours. Winter from November to April is cooler

and drier and a better time to visit. Saigon is particularly hot during March to May, with the wet season from May to November. December to March is considered the best time to visit Saigon and the beaches of Central Vietnam. For Angkor Wat and Cambodia, November to February is ideal with cooler and drier weather. May to October sees brief showers and high humidity. October to March is the best time to visit Luang Prabang in Laos, when the weather is cooler and drier than at other times.

Important to note As of 1 July 2015, British passport holders are able to enter Vietnam for up to 15 days without a visa. You’ll still need a visa to enter Vietnam for periods of 15 days and longer and if you wish to re-enter Vietnam within 30 days of your departure. If you plan to leave Vietnam and re-enter from another country make sure you get a multiple visit visa. For Cambodia and Laos you can get a visa on arrival for $30 and $35 respectively. You must have 2 passport sized photographs and your passport must be

valid for at least a further six months. For visa information please call The Visa Travel Company on 01270 250590 or visit www.thetravelvisacompany.co.uk. Please note that visa requirements can change. Please check for the latest information. For vaccination requirements for Indochina, please contact your doctor.

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THE BEST OF INDOCHINA 17 Day Private Tour

Price includes• 16 nights hotel accommodation • Breakfast daily, 9 lunches and 2 dinners• Private touring as shown • Flights Hanoi-Hue, Danang-Saigon, Phnom Penh-Siem Reap, Siem Reap- Luang Prabang • Air-conditioned vehicles • English-speaking guides

Day 1 Hanoi You will be met at the airport and

transferred to your hotel for a two night stay.

Day 2 Hanoi Enjoy a guided tour of Hanoi.

A traditional cyclo tour through the narrow,

ancient streets of the exotic Old Quarter is a

great way to soak up the sights.

Day 3 Hanoi - Halong Bay Depart for Halong

Bay, a four hour drive from Hanoi. Here you’ll

enjoy an overnight cruise on a traditional junk

through the thousands of limestone islands.

Day 4 Halong Bay - Hue Rise early to enjoy

the scenery before breakfast and transfer to

Hanoi Airport. En route enjoy a traditional

Vietnamese lunch at a local house in Yen Duc

Village. Early evening flight to Hue.

Day 5 Hue Full day city tour of historic Hue,

located by the Perfume River.

Day 6 Hue - Hoi An Today drive south to Hoi

An via the Hai Van Pass, probably the most

scenic stretch of coast road in Vietnam.

Day 7 Hoi An Enjoy a guided walking tour

of Hoi An. Take a short boat trip to visit local

handicraft villages or experience a cooking

class in a villa on the banks of the river.

Day 8 Hoi An - Saigon From Hoi An take a

short flight to Saigon the cosmopolitan heart

of Vietnam. Soak up the exotic atmosphere of

this frenetic city with a guided tour of the main

highlights. Afternoon at leisure.

Day 9 Saigon - Cao Dai Temple - Cu Chi Tunnels Visit the fascinating Cao Dai Temple,

home to a unique religion. Continue to the

infamous Cu Chi Tunnels before returning to

the city.

Day 10 Mekong Delta Visit Cai Be floating

market. Continue cruising along the Mekong

canals before lunch and overnight in Can Tho.

Day 11 Can Tho - Chau Doc Visit Cai Rang

floating market. After lunch, walk around

Chau Doc and see the bustling market and

visit monks at a monastery.

Day 12 Chau Doc - Phnom Penh Board a

speedboat for a 5-hour journey to Phnom

Penh. Check in to your hotel, then an

afternoon tour of Phnom Penh.

Day 13 Phnom Penh - Siem Reap Flight to

Siem Reap. Spend the afternoon visiting the

amazing and awe inspiring temples of Angkor.

Day 14 Temples of Angkor Continue to

explore the Angkor temples.

Day 15 Siem Reap - Luang Prabang Fly

to Luang Prabang, set amongst forested

mountains and dotted with golden temples

that are home to saffron robed monks.

Day 16 Luang Prabang Enjoy a morning tour

of the atmospheric town of Luang Prabang.

Day 17 Depart Luang Prabang Morning at

leisure before your transfer to the airport to

complete the itinerary.

Prices Standard (4 star) from £2599 or

Superior (5 star) from £3059. Per person,

based on twin share.

This 17 day Indochina highlights

tour encompasses the very best

of Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos.

Travel south through Vietnam

from Hanoi to Saigon, taking in

sights such as Halong Bay, Hue

and Hoi An. Cross the border into

Cambodia to discover Phnom

Penh and Angkor Wat. The trip

ends in magical Laos with a stay

in laid-back Luang Prabang.

International flights are not

included. Departs daily.

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THE BEST OF VIETNAM 12 Day Private Tour

Price includes• 11 nights hotel accommodation • Breakfast daily, 2 lunches and 1 dinner• Private touring as shown • Flights Hanoi-Hue and Danang-Saigon• Air-conditioned vehicles • English-speaking guides

Day 1 Arrive Hanoi Your guide will meet you

on arrival at the airport and take you to your

accommodation.

Day 2 Hanoi Visit Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum,

and several of his houses. Continue on to

the Temple of Literature before lunch in a

local restaurant. Visit the History or Fine Arts

museum, then a cyclo tour of the Old Quarter.

Day 3 Halong Bay Cruise Drive to Halong Bay

for a two day cruise. Begin with a seafood

lunch, and then explore limestone caves.

Relax in the afternoon on deck, go for a swim

or try some kayaking.

Day 4 Hanoi to Hue Return to Hanoi for a

flight to Hue. Stop en route with a traditional

Vietnamese lunch in Yen Duc Village.

Day 5 Hue Full day tour of historic Hue,

located by the Perfume River. Includes the

Imperial Citadel and a boat trip.

Day 6 Hue to Hoi An Scenic drive to Hoi An

via the spectacular Hai Van Pass.

Day 7 Hoi An This morning take a guided

walking tour of Hoi An’s ancient town. Enjoy a

short boat trip to local handicraft villages.

Day 8 Hoi An Full day at leisure in Hoi An.

Day 9 Hoi An to Saigon Transfer to Danang

airport then morning flight to Saigon.

Afternoon half day city tour includes the

former Presidential Palace, the War Remnants

Museum, Notre Dame Cathedral, the Post

Office and finally Dong Khoi Street.

Day 10 Cu Chi tunnels This labyrinth of

tunnels is where the Viet Cong hid during

the war. Today the remaining tunnels have

become a tourist attraction, giving visitors a

feel of what underground life was like during

the war. Optional upgrade speedboat transfer

to Cu Chi Tunnels from £36 per person.

Day 11 Mekong Delta Full day tour. Visit the

colourful Cai Be floating market and local

cottage industries on a relaxing cruise. After

lunch in an exquisite villa return to Saigon.

Day 12 Depart Saigon Time at leisure before

your airport transfer.

• Extend your tour with a 3 day 2 night add-on

to spectacular Angkor Wat, located close to

the city of Siem Reap in Cambodia. See page

114 for details and prices.

Prices Standard (4 star) from £1599 or

Superior (5 star) from £1999. Per person,

based on twin share.

Experience Vietnam’s highlights

in just 12 days with flights

between each city, enabling you

to see as much as you can. See

Hanoi, the Paris of the Orient,

stay overnight on a traditional

junk in Halong Bay. Take in the

ancient capital of Hue, witness

the spectacular scenery of the

Hai Van Pass then relax in the

charming fishing port of Hoi An

with its sandy beaches. End

your tour in bustling Saigon.


included. Departs daily.

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THE BEST OF VIETNAM & CAMBODIA 16 Day Private Tour

Price includes• 15 nights hotel accommodation • Breakfast daily, 6 lunches and 1 dinner• Private touring as shown • Flights Hanoi-Hue, Danang-Saigon and Phnom Penh-Siem Reap• Air-conditioned vehicles • English-speaking guides

Day 1 Arrive Hanoi Your guide will meet you

on arrival at the airport and take you to your

accommodation.

Day 2 Hanoi Visit Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum,

and several of his houses. Continue on to

the Temple of Literature before lunch in a

local restaurant. Visit the History of Fine Arts

museum, followed by a cyclo tour of the Old

Quarter.

Day 3 Halong Bay Cruise Drive to Halong Bay

for a two day cruise. Begin with a seafood

lunch, and then explore limestone caves.

Relax in the afternoon on deck, go for a swim

or try some kayaking.

Day 4 Hanoi to Hue Return to Hanoi for a

flight to Hue. Stop en route with a traditional

Vietnamese lunch in Yen Duc Village.

Day 5 Hue Full day tour of historic Hue,

located by the Perfume River. Includes the

Imperial Citadel and a boat trip.

Day 6 Hue to Hoi An Scenic drive to Hoi An

via the spectacular Hai Van Pass.

Day 7 Hoi An This morning take a guided

walking tour of Hoi An’s ancient town. Enjoy a

short boat trip to local handicraft villages.

Day 8 Hoi An to Saigon Transfer to Danang

airport then a morning flight to Saigon.

Afternoon half day city tour of Saigon.

Day 9 Cu Chi tunnels This labyrinth of tunnels

is where the Viet Cong hid during the war.

Today the remaining tunnels have become a

tourist attraction, giving visitors a feel of what

underground life was like during the war.

Optional upgrade: speedboat transfer to Cu

Chi Tunnels from £36 per person.

Day 10 Saigon to The Mekong Delta Visit

the colourful Cai Be floating market and local

cottage industries on a relaxing cruise. Lunch

in an exquisite villa before continuing to Can

Tho.

Day 11 Mekong Delta Visit the Cai Rang

floating market then a sampan ride through

Tau Su Forest. Overnight in Chau Doc.

Day 12 Mekong Delta to Phnom Penh

Board a speedboat for a 5-hour journey to

Cambodia’s capital.

Day 13 Phnom Penh Half day tour of the city.

Day 14 Phnom Penh to Siem Reap Morning

flight to Siem Reap. Afternoon tour of Angkor

Wat with a sunset view.

Day 15 Angkor Wat Half day morning or

afternoon tour of Angkor Wat.

Day 16 Depart Siem Reap At leisure before

your transfer to the airport.

Prices per person based on twin share:

Standard (4-star) from £2199. Superior (5-

star) from £2569.

Experience the highlights of

Vietnam and Cambodia. In

Vietnam see Hanoi and stay

overnight on a traditional junk in

magnificent Halong Bay. Take in

the ancient capital of Hue and

the beaches of historic Hoi An.

Following a Saigon stay head

to the Mekong Delta before a

speedboat to Cambodia’s Phnom

Penh and finally the impressive

Angkor Wat. International flights

are not included. Departs daily.

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HALONG BAY OVERNIGHT CRUISES

PARADISE LUXURY CRUISESAPHRODITE CRUISES

This 17-cabin vessel features

a stylish restaurant and bar for

an exclusive dining experience

on the third deck. The top deck

serves as a perfect place to enjoy

the sunshine and discovering the

splendid beauty of Halong Bay –

the most stunning bay in Vietnam

with a 360 view. Choose from

Deluxe Cabins, Deluxe Balcony

Cabins, Terrace Suite and Paradise Suite. Facilities include a spa and

range of included actitvites.

Day 1 Depart from Hanoi for the drive to Halong Bay. Once on board,

there will be a short safety briefi ng followed by lunch in the dining

room as you admire the stunning beauty of the bay. The fi rst stop is

the Surprise Cave, the largest in all of Halong Bay. See the impressive

limestone formations as you wander through the cave, keeping an eye

out for frog rock and the big Buddha. Then cruise to Soi Sim Island

where you can swim, kayak or soak up the sun on the sandy beach.

Return back to the boat in time for sunset drinks and dinner. This

evening you might like to watch a fi lm in you cabin, try your hand at

squid fi shing or relax with a massage at the spa.

Day 2 Wake up to the majestic beauty of Halong and enjoy some

morning exercise with a quick swim or paddle in a kayak. Then enjoy a

hearty breakfast as the boat wends its way through the islands and back

to the pier at Tuan Chau arriving around 10am, returning to Hanoi in the

mid afternoon.

Prices from £292 per person based on twin share.

A 17-cabin vessel that offers

cabins with sea views. It also

features free Tai Chi lessons, free

movies and use of board games,

and activities such as kayaking

and snorkelling. Located either on

the upper or lower deck, rooms

and suites offer en suite facilities.

Some cabins offer a spa bath and

terrace.

Day 1 Depart from Hanoi and travel by road to the Tuan Chau Island pier

in Halong Bay arriving just before midday. Take a tender boat to meet

the Aphrodite overnight cruise, for check in and a short safety briefi ng.

Then set off to cruise the emerald waters and enjoy lunch while admiring

the views. Later in the afternoon take a sampan to discover village life on

the water or for the more active there is the option to kayak. Return to

Aphrodite in time for a sunset drink and dinner.

Day 2 This morning join in with the ancient art of tai chi on the sun deck

or watch the bay wake from the comfort of your room. After breakfast an

expert guide will accompany you for an exploration of the Me Cung Cave,

a remnant of the Stone Age era some 10,000 years ago. A narrow crack

forms the entrance to the cave that then opens into several chambers

with impressive stalagmites and stalactites. Then return to Aphrodite to

for a light brunch on the cruise back to the Tuan Chau pier, and onwards

to Hanoi arriving mid afternoon.


Halong Bay is an UNESCO World Heritage Site on Vietnam’s north east coast. Translated as Bay of Descending Dragons, towering limestone karsts represent the dragon’s back, surrounded by jade green water creating an unforgettable sight. We offer a range of overnight cruises to suit all budgets and tastes. Please call for details.

Fly to or from Halong Bay by seaplane for a supplement of £225 per person per way.

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HALONG BAY OVERNIGHT CRUISES

VIOLET CRUISE PARADISE PEAK

With just six luxurious

cabins, the Violet gives

visitors an exclusive look

at the wonders of Halong

Bay. In this small yet

luxurious craft, visitors

can appreciate the bay’s

massive scale, the boat’s

red sails dwarfed by the

bay’s towering limestone

islands. Built to resemble a traditional Asian junk, the wood-clad Violet

features gleaming wooden fl oors, opulent silks and velvets, and cabins

with fl oor-to-ceiling windows that frame the breathtaking views. Facilities

include a restaurant, bar, spa, sauna, gym and library.

Day 1 Depart at 08:30am from the hotel. Depart Hanoi for the UNESCO

heritage-listed Halong Bay on a two day cruise through thousands of

limestone islands. Climb onboard a luxurious junk, meet the crew and

set sail while lunch is served. In the afternoon, the boat docks to allow

passengers a short trek to a nearby summit for a panoramic view of the

bay, followed by swimming on the quiet beach or sunbathing on the boat

deck. Over the next two days, visit a traditional fl oating village, enjoy

more swimming and sunbathing, or take a bamboo rowboat to a water

tunnel and coral reefs in a secluded lagoon. As the sun sets over the

water enjoy cocktails on the deck and gourmet dinners under the stars.

Day 2 In the morning, visit a limestone grotto then cruise leisurely

through the bay before returning to the dock to depart for Hanoi.


Paradise Peak offers 8 stately suites for infi nite comfort and care. All

facilities have been designed with the utmost elegance and the crew

composed to ensure a guest service worthy of the most remarkable

grand hotels. Two of the cabins are located on the fi rst deck, four on the

second deck and two on the third deck. They all feature a bedroom,

a large en-suite bathroom and a private dining area. Facilities include

private dining options, a restaurant, bar, spa, sauna, steam room, fi tness

room and library.

Day 1 After a transfer from Hanoi, enjoy lunch on board while cruising

past the islands and islets. In the afternoon visit Luon Cave – one of

Halong Bay’s most beautiful of Caves and enjoy kayaking or relaxing

and taking in the views. Continue on to Titop Island where you can enjoy

swimming or a walk to the top for a panoramic view. In the evening enjoy

a cooking demonstration before an elegant dinner.

Day 2 Tai Chi lesson at dawn for those who wish to rise early. Light

breakfast then explore Sung Sot Cave for great views before a return to

disembark and return to Hanoi.


• Cruises shown are based on a 2 day 1 night duration but we can also offer 3 day 2 night cruises.• All of the cruises include private transfers with pick up and drop off at a Hanoi hotel, or the airport.• There is an option to include a visit to a traditional Vietnamese village at Yen Duc en route to Hanoi or the airport.

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SAPA VALLEY EXPLORER 5 Day Private Tour

Day 1 Depart Hanoi You’ll be met at your

Hanoi hotel or at the airport and privately

transferred to the train station for a 2200 hrs

departure (times vary check for details). Board

the Victoria Express train. This service recalls

a more romantic era as you pass through

the exotic landscapes of North Vietnam.

Indulge yourself in the dining carriage, “Le

Tonkin”, where you can savour the delights

of traditional Vietnamese and Western

cuisine. The talented Chef has selected the

best wines, adding a further exquisite touch

to a memorable experience. Discover the

4-course set menus (dinner not included).

Your Superior Cabin is air-conditioned, wood

panelled and offers baggage storage and

oversized windows.

Day 2 Arrive Sapa The train arrives early the

following morning into Lao Cai Station. Usually

around 0630 hrs. Met on arrival and privately

transferred to The Victoria Sapa Resort & Spa

for a 2 night stay in a Deluxe room including

breakfast daily. The rest of the day is at leisure

to enjoy the views and the facilities of the

hotel. The four star Victoria Sapa Resort &

Spa, the only luxury hotel in the region, was

built as a traditional chalet with accented

wooden décor. The Resort overhangs the

village, blending perfectly with its natural

surroundings. The restaurant has a large

central fireplace and a cosy atmosphere. In

the summer months, dine on the terrace and

enjoy spectacular views over Mount Fansipan.

Day 3 Trekking Explore the valleys of Sapa

with a trek that includes a visit to the Tay

minority and the Red Dao. Drive to Su Pan,

the starting point of your trek and commence

your walk downhill through picturesque

mountain scenery. Stop for a chat with the Tay

people of Ban Ho village and see their houses

built on stilts. Then cross the suspension

bridge over the river and enjoy lunch in a

local home where you will get a peek into the

daily lives of the people. After lunch, walk

through the rice terraces to a Red Dao village

for a cup of tea and chat before looping back

around to Ban Ho village and walking uphill to

Su Pan where the car will be waiting for you.

Please note This trek requires a good level of

fitness. Approximately 2 hours driving, 5 hours

walking, 1 hour for a lunch break.

Day 4 Village Tour and depart Sapa Start

this half-day walking tour by visiting the rustic

village of Suoi Ho. Take a stroll through its

sleepy streets and get a glimpse of village life

before stopping by a local school to meet the

children. Later, enjoy views of the stunning

countryside as you walk along the Suoi Ho

River, en-route to the second village of Ma Tra.

Soak in its vibrant culture and visit its quaint

Christian church before being picked up by

car and returning to Sapa Town.

Please note This is an easy walk with a basic

level of fitness required. Approximately 30

mins driving / 3½ hours walking.

Afternoon at leisure at the hotel before your

transfer to Lan Cai station. The train is due to

depart at 2105 hrs.

Day 5 Arrive Hanoi at around 0530 hrs to

complete your tour.

Prices from £1599 person based on twin

share.

The former French outpost of

Sapa in the hills of northern

Vietnam offers travellers a

fascinating glimpse into the life

of some of Vietnam’s ethnic

minority groups, including the

Red Dzao and H’mong people.

Elevated 1600m above sea level,

it also offers visitors some of

Vietnam’s best trekking routes,

laden with traditional village

home stays tucked amid vast

rice paddies and tropical jungle.

Located just under 250 miles

from Hanoi, this scenic location

is best reached with an overnight

train each way. An above average

fitness level is required for the

trekking. We can also offer a

similar itinerary without trekking.

Please ask for details.

Price includes• 2 nights at the 4-star Victoria Sapa Resort • 2 nights aboard the Victoria Express Train with a Superior Cabin• 2 breakfasts and 1 lunch• Air-conditioned vehicles• English-speaking guides

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HANOI

Travel Hanoi is served by

scheduled services from most

Asian cities, with onwards

connections from London.

Vietnam Airlines fl y direct from

London Heathrow. The airport is

22 miles north of the city, which

is a 50-minute drive.


met on arrival and transferred

privately to your hotel. From

£14 per person.

Attractions Start in the grand

Ba Dinh Square. Visit Ho Chi

Minh’s Mausoleum, where

you will see the former leader

laid out before you. Nearby

are some of his houses, set in

landscaped grounds. Visit The

Temple of Literature, founded in

the 11th century. Spend time in

the Old Quarter, either on foot

or on a cyclo (a cycle rickshaw).

Further afi eld Halong Bay is one

of Vietnam’s major attractions

and for good reason. It is

possible to visit on a day trip,

but this involves an eight hour

round trip transfer. Alternatively

we offer a two-day cruise which

allows you more time to enjoy

the breathtaking scenery.

When to go November to

February is Hanoi’s driest and

therefore best time to visit.

March to October is hotter, with

more rainfall and high humidity.

Hanoi is generally warm to hot,

though in winter it can reach a

low of just 13°C.

Hanoi, known as the ‘Paris of the Orient’

offers a delightful taste of Asia’s heritage.

Retaining much of its French colonial

architecture, this is a city of wide, tree-

lined boulevards and lakes. Spend time

in the vibrant Old Quarter; a maze of

bustling, narrow streets offering all kinds

of goods, with an excellent selection of

cafes, bars and restaurants. A visit to the

nearby and iconic Halong Bay is a must.

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HANOI Hotels

SOFITEL LEGEND METROPOLE HOTEL

HOTEL DE L’OPERA HANOI MAI CHAU LODGE 3 DAY TOUR

LA SIESTA HOTEL & SPA

Located at the heart of Hanoi close to the old quarter and the Opera

House, the charming Sofi tel Legend Metropole Hotel blends warm

Vietnamese hospitality with European luxury. The 364 rooms and suites

are located in two wings; the historical Metropole Wing features rooms

with the original grandeur, while the newer Opera Wing offers neo-classic

elegance. Facilities include a stylish pool with loungers set in well

manicured gardens, a spa, fi tness centre, a café, bar and two restaurants.

Offer Receive a 5% discount for stays of 5 nights or more. Year round.


The 5-star Hotel de l’Opera Hanoi is located in the centre of Hanoi, close

to the Opera House. Just 3 minutes walk from Hoan Kiem Lake and the

Old Quarter, the 105 rooms and suites are a sanctuary of comfort, with

large bathrooms, hand-picked luxurious amenities and 21st Century

technology. Restaurants, a bar, a four-season swimming pool combine

to deliver memorable operatic moments for leisure travellers. For a cool

place to enjoy cocktails and convivial company try La Fee Verte Bar.

Offer Receive a 10% discount for stays of 5 nights or more, year round.


Mai Chau is only four hours away from bustling Hanoi but feels like

another world. You are transferred into the lush mountains, home

to remote hill tribes and visited by surprisingly few tourists. There

is a range of activities including optional cycling tours through the

valley, kayaking and guided walks to the local villages. This 3 day

package includes 4 star accommodation, all meals and roundtrip

transfers from Hanoi. Facilities include an outdoor pool and spa.


A peaceful hotel with a homely feel, The La Siesta hotel is the newest

member of the Hanoi Elegance Hotel Group. Superbly located on old

Ma May Street, it is in easy reach of Hanoi’s evocative Hoan Kiem Lake

and major attractions. This boutique property is both modern in style as

well as embodying the hidden charm of Hanoi’s Old Quarter. The hotel

has 50 spacious bedrooms, including Suites and Duplex rooms (good for

families). Other facilities include a spa, gym and a movie room.

Offer Receive a 10% discount for stays of 5 nights or more. Year round


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HOI AN, HUE and DANANG

Hoi An is an exceptionally

well-preserved example of a

South-East Asian trading port

dating from the 15th to the 19th

century. Its buildings and its

street plan reflect the influences

that have combined to produce

this unique heritage site. Hoi An

offers a superb sandy beach,

riverside cafes and restaurants

and excellent shopping

opportunities.

Danang is the nearest airport

to Hoi An, a 30-kilometre,

45-minute drive and is served

by scheduled flights from

Hanoi, Saigon and Siem Reap,

Cambodia.

Attractions

Visit My Son, (pictured above)

a World Heritage site, 40

kilometres southwest of Hoi

An. Located in a lush valley. My

Son was a capital and religious

centre of the Cham people, now

remaining with red brick towers

and sanctuaries. My Son, is

considered to be in the same

league as some of Southeast

Asia’s greatest archaeological

sites.

When to go

The temperature is warm

throughout the year (average

29°C), yet hotter during June

and July and cooler around

December. Hoi An is affected

by monsoon winds with rain

from September until January,

and generally dry for the rest of

the year. Visit Hoi An, Hue and

Danang between May and June.

Hoi An is an exceptionally well-preserved

example of a South-East Asian trading

port dating from the 15th - 19th century.

Its buildings and its street plan reflect the

influences that have combined to produce

this unique heritage site. Nearby Danang is

the main hub with the airport as the gateway

to the region and includes the golden sands

of China Beach. The beautiful city of Hue is

rich in history, culture and temples. Spend

time exploring the Citadel, before a sunset

cruise on the Perfume River.

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HOI AN, HUE and DANANG Hotels

The Nam Hai is a stylish and luxurious resort, superbly situated on 85 acres of landscaped gardens and

with direct access to a white sandy beach. The ancient and picturesque town of Hoi An is a 15-minute

drive away. This all-villa property features a modern, Asian design and 60 one-bedroom pool villas

ranging from one to five bedrooms, each with its own infinity pool. Facilities include a tropical spa beside

a lagoon, three beachfront pools, an 18-hole golf course nearby, and two restaurants.

Offer Receive 3 nights for the price of 2 in low season. Call for details.


The Victoria Hoi An Beach Resort enjoys a wonderful seafront position, three miles from Hoi An. The

resort replicates a traditional fishing village with small streets, water ponds and village houses with clay-

tiled roofs, providing a warm and restful environment. All 109 rooms face the river or sea and are designed

to combine local style with the comfort of an International hotel. Facilities include a pool, kids’ pool, spa,

library, fitness centre, bars and restaurant. Shuttle bus to Hoi An.



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VICTORIA HOI AN BEACHRESORT & SPA

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HOI AN, HUE and DANANG Hotels

LA RESIDENCE HOTEL & SPA

ALMANITY HOI AN

Hue’s first deluxe boutique hotel, La Residence Hotel and Spa is nestled

on the banks of the Perfume river, within easy walking distance of Hue.

This graceful Art Deco building was once the residence of the French

governor. The 122 guest rooms have been designed with colonial charm

and Asian opulence and feature private terraces with views towards the

river. Facilities include an elegantly-designed pool by the river’s edge, a

spa, tennis courts, a fitness centre, a bar and a restaurant.



Almanity Hoi An is a new and unique resort in the heart of Hoi An town.

Just minutes from the World Heritage listed Ancient Town, this stunning

Alma Resort offers guests 145 spacious rooms in a classic heritage design,

surrounding tropical gardens and inviting terraced pools. Inclusive daily

90 minute Spa Journeys combine massage, meditation and Tai Chi are

offered in the My Chi Spa, one of the largest spas in Asia, featuring 40

treatment rooms and a relaxation pool set within a Silent Sanctuary.

Offer Receive a complimentary spa treatment daily. Call for details.


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ANANTARA RESORT HOI AN

The Anantara Resort Hoi An occupies a superb location by the scenic

river, a short stroll from the colourful and bustling ancient town of Hoi

An. The beach is 3 miles away. This colonial style resort offers a relaxing

and tranquil setting amidst the sights and sounds of Hoi An. Superior

rooms have a private porch overlooking the beautiful gardens. Junior

suites are larger, some with river views. Facilities include a pool, massage,

restaurant, café and bar. Sunset river cruises depart from the hotel.



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FUSION MAIA DANANG

Fusion Maia is a unique all-villa resort that dedicates itself to the art of

relaxation. This unique property with its simple design, down-to-earth five-

star service and surprising all spa-inclusive concept is located on China

Beach between Danang and historic Hoi An (just a complimentary shuttle

bus ride away). Treat yourself to a minimum of 2 treatments guaranteed

per day, at no extra charge. Facilities include an infinity pool, gym, spa,

restaurant, lounge and pool bar.



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HOI AN Tours

MY SON TOUR

COOKING CLASS

Depart your Hoi An hotel for My Son, the former capital of the ancient

Cham civilization. The Cham people ruled central Vietnam from the 2nd

- 13th centuries, and their kingdom once stretched into what are now

Laos and parts of Cambodia. Most of the ruins have decayed over time

or have been looted. There are a few headless statues in place and one

of the temples has some decorative stonework. These ruins are set in

an impressive jungle location, surrounded by mountains and make for a

spectacular photo opportunity. Early morning departures on this guided

half-day tour are best to avoid the crowds and the heat of the day.

Prices from £40 per person.

Begin your half-day culinary tour at Vy’s Market Restaurant in downtown

Hoi An, one of central Vietnam’s tastiest eateries and cooking schools.

Short boat ride to a nearby market to wander through the stalls with a

local guide to learn about the uses of fresh noodles, dried spices and

fresh herbs. Sample dishes from 10 different food counters. Get a quick

demonstration before trying your hand at creating the same dishes from

scratch. Round up your culinary adventure with a sit-down meal to enjoy

your dish, and go home with a copy of the recipes and a Vietnamese

cooking utensil as a keepsake. Class is on a shared basis.


HOI AN WALKING TOUR

Begin your half-day guided tour of Hoi An, a former trading port that

welcomed Chinese, Dutch, French, Japanese, Portuguese and Arab

merchants between the 16th to 18th centuries. Today Hoi An is famous

for its restored architecture, homemade silk, expert tailors and delicious

noodles and seafood. Its relaxed vibe and pedestrianised streets make

this town a pleasure to walk around and discover new things. The tour

includes stops at several famous landmarks. Departs daily.


CYCLING TOUR

This morning cycle 15 minutes out of Hoi An to board a small boat for

a 35 minute cruise along the waterways of Quang Nam Province. Jump

back onto the saddle and peddle through the green paddy fields and

villages, stopping at traditional handicraft villages along the way to see local

craftsmen producing rice paper and sleeping mats. In the 16th century

Hoi An served as Vietnam’s major trading hub, attracting merchants from

around the world. Visit the local boat making village of Kim Bong and hear

the story of traditional Vietnamese seamanship, before cycling back to Hoi

An in the early afternoon. Fully guided tour departs daily.


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NHA TRANG and PHAN THIET

Travel The nearest airport to Nha

Trang is Cam Ranh International

Airport, which is a 20 mile drive.

There are flights to Cam Ranh

from Saigon, Hanoi and Danang.

Phan Thiet is located just under

100 miles north of Saigon, a 3-4

hour transfer.

When to go Nha Trang is very

fortunate to be free of the effects

of the monsoon that trouble

other parts of Vietnam. It has a

delightfully warm climate year

round, with the exception of

the period of November to mid

December. Phan Thiet and

nearby Mui Ne beach enjoy good

weather throughout the year with

the exception of the September –

November period.

Nha Trang has some

of the best white

sand beaches, luxury

resorts and natural

beauty that the

country has to offer. Located only 450

kilometres from Saigon, Nha Trang is

known for being one of the most bustling

beach cities in Vietnam. Phan Thiet is a

little piece of paradise, with the golden

sandy beaches of nearby Mui Ne and a

palm fringed coastline.

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NHA TRANG and PHAN THIET Hotels

Situated in the picturesque Ninh Van Bay, An Lam Villas will indulge you with exquisite food, flawless

service and its stunning white sand beach. The Beach and Lagoon Front Villas include a private pool

and are set in exclusive, private locations with stunning views over the lagoon and Ninh Van Bay. An

open plan layout is designed to take full advantage of the spectacular views and create an inviting indoor/

outdoor ambience. Facilities include an outdoor pool, fitness centre, spa, bar and choice of restaurants.



A 150-km drive from Saigon set on the secluded and pristine Ke Ga Bay, facing a century-old French

lighthouse, the Princess D’An Nam Resort & Spa is the first all-villa luxury boutique resort in Vietnam.

With its 48 exclusive villas, four swimming pools, two restaurants, and a sumptuous 1,800–square-metre

spa complex, Princess D’An Nam Resort & Spa is an idyllic haven of calm and luxury. Choose from 36

Mandarin Suites, 18 Princess Villas, and three double-storey Empress Villas.



AN LAMNINH VAN BAY VILLAS

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SAIGON

Travel Saigon is served by

scheduled services from most

Asian cities, with onwards

connections from London.

Vietnam Airlines offer direct

fl ights from London Heathrow.

The airport is a 20-25 minute

drive. We can arrange for

you to be met on arrival and

transferred privately to your

hotel. From £8 per person.

Attractions Visit the

Reunifi cation Palace; a symbol

of the war and scene of the

fall of Saigon in 1975. The

French-style Central Post Offi ce

is interesting as it has changed

very little over the decades. See

the Notre Dame Cathedral, very

much a landmark in Saigon.

A cyclo ride through the streets

at night is an experience, and

a drink from a rooftop bar

overlooking the Saigon River is

recommended. Further afi eld

consider a cruise in the Mekong

and a visit to the Cu Chi

Tunnels, used during the war by

the Vietcong.

When to go The driest period of

the year for Saigon tends to be

December through to March.

The rainy season is usually May

to October and tropical storms

do occur. Saigon is hot and

humid all year round with an

average temperature of between

31°C and 35°C.

Vietnam’s largest city, Saigon (also called

Ho Chi Minh City), is fast catching

up with Asia’s other cities in terms of

development, yet it still retails a French

colonial fl avour and a timeless quality.

Alongside its colonial buildings and

bustling street markets you’ll fi nd sleek

new bars, pavement cafés and some of

the most delicious food in Asia with a

good choice of restaurants.2

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SAIGON Hotels

VILLA SONG SAIGON

RENAISSANCE RIVERSIDE HOTEL SAIGON

CARAVELLE HOTEL

EDENSTAR SAIGON HOTEL

The Villa Song is a boutique hotel with a superb riverside setting on

the banks of the Saigon River. A shuttle bus or boat transfers guests

to the centre of Saigon for sightseeing and shopping. Facilities include

an outdoor, 30 metre-long swimming pool, gym, bar and spa. The

restaurant offers all-day dining with eclectic Western, Asian and

Vietnamese dishes. Enjoy a candlelit dinner by the fl owing Saigon river.

The 23 elegantly decorated rooms offer modern facilities.



The Renaissance Riverside Hotel offers a superb central location with

panoramic views of the Saigon River together with easy access to

museums, galleries and shops, and famous landmarks such as the

Opera House, Reunifi cation Palace and the Notre Dame Cathedral.

The 319 modern guest rooms offer a choice of city or river views. Enjoy

a swim in the impressive rooftop swimming pool. Other hotel facilities

include a poolside bar, gym, spa, coffee shop, cafe and a restaurant.



The Caravelle has been at the centre of Saigon society since the hotel

was opened in 1959. In 1998, an elegant 24-storey tower was built

as a complement to the original 10-storey building. With commanding

views of the city and an enviable location opposite the Opera House,

this landmark hotel is at the heart of the city. 335 rooms with city or river

views. Facilities include an outdoor pool, fi tness centre, jacuzzi, spa and

wide range of bars and restaurants.



The Edenstar Saigon is centrally located in District 1, within easy walking

distance to the sights of the city and the impressive Ben Thanh Market.

Facilities include an outdoor rooftop swimming pool with great views of

the city, a massage area, a fi tness centre, jacuzzi, steam room, sauna

and spa. The hotel’s restaurant offers Vietnamese and International

cuisines with all day dining. The pool bar offers light meals and snacks

and a choice of beverages.



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MEKONG DELTA HOTELS and TOUR

VICTORIA CAN THO RESORT

VICTORIA CHAU DOC HOTEL

The Victoria Can Tho Resort is a luxury hotel in the Mekong Delta.

Located close to Can Tho town, but a quiet retreat from the bustle of the

city, the resort sits on the banks of the river, set amidst exotic gardens.

The Lady Hau, a remodelled rice barge, is available for sunset and

dinner cruises. The colonial-style rooms are comfortable and spacious

and feature traditional furnishings. Facilities include a pool, a spa, fitness

centre, tennis, bicycle hire, free bus/boat to town, bar and restaurant.

Offer Receive a 10% discount for a 3 night stay. Year round.


Built in colonial style with low-rise French architectural design, the

Victoria Chau Doc Hotel blends perfectly with its natural surroundings.

The hotel is located right on the banks of the Bassac River and offers

front seat views of the river habitat with its famous floating fish farming

villages, floating markets and Cham villages. Deep in the Mekong Delta,

Chau Doc town is 174 miles south-west of Ho Chi Minh City close to the

Cambodian border.

Offer Receive a 10% discount for a 3 night stay. Year round.


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3 DAY MEKONG DELTA TOUR AND CRUISE

Price includes• 1 night aboard the Song Xanh sampan• 1 night 4-star Victoria Can Tho Resort• Touring as shown• Pick up and drop off at your Saigon hotel• Meals: 2 breakfasts, 1 lunch and 1 dinner

Experience the beauty of the Mekong Delta with an overnight cruise

aboard a traditional sampan and a night in a luxurious hotel set on

the banks of the river.

Day 1 Saigon - Mekong Delta Depart from Saigon in the morning

with a transfer to the Mekong Delta. Board your private Song Xanh

sampan. This cruise is designed to give travellers a private cruise

experience in the Mekong Delta aboard a unique and authentic

sampan. The boat features beautiful bamboo and rattan furniture,

a living area that converts to a private bedroom, shower and wc and

a sundeck where meals and drinks are served. Cruise the canals

of the delta and visit small villages. Glide into picture-postcard

scenery. Dinner is served at Nha Co, a house dating back to the

19th century.

Day 2 Can Tho Wake to the sound of the river as you arrive in

the Mekong Delta’s largest floating market, Cai Rang. Experience

the hustle and bustle of the market and witness boats filled with

coconuts and merchants haggling over goods. After a visit to a local

morning market your cruise will end mid morning. Then a short

transfer to the Victoria Can Tho for an overnight stay. See opposite

for details of the Victoria Can Tho Resort; a beautiful, colonial-style

hotel set on the banks of the river.

Day 3 Can Tho - Saigon Breakfast then your transfer back to

Saigon.

Price £460 per person, based on twin share.

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MEKONG RIVER CRUISE 12 Day Tour

Price includes• 2 nights in Siem Reap, 2 nights in Saigon• Tours of Angkor Wat and Saigon• 7 nights aboard the RV La Marguerite• All meals aboard the RV La Marguerite• Complimentary local beer, local spirits and soft drinks served at your discretion• Complimentary wine with lunch & dinner • Breakfast in Siem Reap and Saigon• Arrival and departure airport transfers

Day 1 Arrive Siem Reap Met on arrival and

privately transferred to the Shinta Mani Resort

for a 2 night stay in a Pool View room with

breakfast. See page 115 for details of the

Shinta Mani Resort.

Day 2 Angkor Wat Full day fully guided tour.

Day 3 Siem Reap, Embark Ship Board your

river ship, the RV La Marguerite. Enjoy a

Welcome Dinner on board tonight. Seven

Nights: RV La Marguerite.

Day 4 Kampong Tralach, Oudong Today, you

will set out for Kampong Tralach. Like a Local

– enjoy a traditional mode of transport and

head out on an exciting ox-cart ride, which will

give you a thrilling insight into village life. After,

visit the Imperial City. Like a Local – travel

by coach to the former capital of Cambodia,

Oudong, where you have the chance to

participate in a Buddhist blessing.

Day 5 Koh Chen, Phnom Penh Go ashore

to explore Koh Chen, a small village

which specialises in producing silver and

copperware in home workshops. After, cruise

to Phnom Penh, Cambodia’s capital. Enjoy

dinner, then absorb the culture of the region

during an onboard Khmer folk performance.

Day 6 Phnom Penh Join a sobering excursion

to the infamous Killing Fields and the Tuol

Sleng Genocide Museum today. After lunch

on board, you’ll visit the opulent Royal

Palace, the residence of the king, and see

the impressive Silver Pagoda. After dinner,

perhaps step out for an evening walk.

Day 7 Border Crossing, Tan Chau Enjoy the

day on board as you head to the Vietnamese

border. Later, your ship arrives in Tan Chau.

Day 8 Tan Chau, Sa Dec Today you’ll journey

along the Mekong’s tiny tributaries that are

dotted with chaotic stilt houses. Later, venture

ashore for a wonderful rickshaw tour of Tan

Chau. Back on board, perhaps attend a

lecture on Vietnam in the ship’s lounge.

Day 9 Sa Dec, Cai Be Take a boat ride to Sa

Dec for a tour. After lunch, a local boat takes

you to the river-land town of Cai Be to explore

its incredible floating markets. Then go ashore

to see Cai Be’s French Gothic cathedral and

visit a local rice paper manufacturer. This

evening, enjoy a Farewell Dinner on board.

Day 10 Disembark Ship, Cu Chi Tunnels, Saigon Disembark your ship in My Tho and

travel by private transfer to Saigon, visiting the

famous Cu Chi Tunnels on the way. Check in

and stay at the Caravelle Hotel Saigon for a 2

night stay. Add See page 109 for details of the

Caravelle Hotel Saigon.

Day 11 Saigon Full day at leisure in Saigon.

We can pre-book a half day city tour if

required.

Day 12 Depart Saigon Depart for the airport

with a private transfer.


share.

The boutique Mekong river ship

RV La Marguerite provides an

undeniably indulgent setting for a

cruise along the mighty Mekong

River. The Sun Deck offers great

views, comfortable sun loungers,

cold drinks from the bar, Tai

Chi classes and a pool. Indoors,

two lounges afford magnificent

views and wifi. Lounge and bar.

Gourmet meals are served in the

restaurant. 46 Cabins all with

private bathrooms. International

flights are not included.

Dates of departure on request.

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PHU QUOC ISLAND

Travel Phu Quoc airport is located

190 miles south of Saigon (one

hour fl ight). The island is also

served by fl ights from Hanoi, Can

Tho and Rach Gia.

When to go Phu Quoc has a sub-

equatorial climate and is at its best

during the November to March

period, with sunny skies and

pleasant temperatures around

25-28°C and relatively low

humidity. July to September sees

the full effect of the monsoon

season with wet weather.

A short, one-hour

fl ight to Phu Quoc

island is all it takes

for a perfect island

beach break.

The palm-fringed, white sand beaches

and warm waters are the perfect setting

for your stay. This charming island is

home to local villages whose way of life

has remained unchanged over the span

of generations.

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PHU QUOC ISLAND Hotels

The Chen Sea Resort & Spa is a four star resort set on a beautiful Ong Lang beach in a quiet part

of the island of Phu Quoc. The 36 rooms include private bungalows and villas and feature a private

balcony, some have sea views. Facilities include an extensive spa, a seafront restaurant offering local,

Mediterranean and International cuisine, an outdoor swimming pool, kids pool, gym and tennis. There is

a wide range of watersport activities available.



Located on Phu Quoc Island, La Veranda Resort, a member of the MGallery collection, boasts a style

reminiscent of a French seaside mansion. Set in tropical gardens on a beautiful stretch of beach, the

resort boasts an evocative design comprising a rich blend of dark woods, fine linens and mosaic tiles,

complemented by large terraces with sweeping views. In addition to 43 rooms with private balconies,

La Veranda Resort features two restaurants, a lounge bar, swimming pool, water sports and a day spa.



CHEN SEARESORT & SPA

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ANGKOR WAT and PHNOM PENH

Angkor Wat is world famous for its beauty and splendour. In 1992

UNESCO declared the monument and the whole city of Angkor

a World Heritage site. A few miles from Angkor Wat is the city of

Siem Reap where the majority of the hotels are located. The capital

of Cambodia, Phnom Penh is located on the banks of the Tonle

Sap and Mekong River. A city with French-infl uenced architecture,

history and wonderful river views.

TravelBoth Siem Reap and Phnom Penh

Airports are served with regular

fl ights from most parts of Asia.

Attractions There is so much to see at Angkor

Wat. Most visitors have a day or

two here. Highly recommended

is a sunrise visit to the site and

enjoy a sunset view from one of

the temples.

In Phnom Penh a visit to the Silver

Pagoda is recommended. The

dark side of the country’s history

is experienced at the genocide

museum. The river provides a lot

of opportunities for a boat trip on

the Mekong River.

When to go The driest and coolest

period is generally from November

to March. May through to October

sees high humidity and frequent,

but often brief showers. However

the busiest period for visitors is

during the dry and cool period

so you can expect crowds at the

temples of Angkor Wat.

Price includes• 2 nights 4 star hotel with breakfast daily• Roundtrip private airport transfers• Angkor Wat full day private tour

Day 1 Arrive Siem Reap Met on arrival and privately

transferred to your hotel.

Day 2 Angkor Wat A full day to explore this World

Heritage listed site. Accompanied by an expert

guide who will show you all of the main sights.

Lunch included.

Day 3 Depart Siem Reap Private transfer to Siem

Reap Airport.

Price from £215 per person, based on twin share.

3 DAY ANGKOR WAT PRIVATE TOUR

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ANGKOR WAT and PHNOM PENH Hotels

RAFFLES GRAND HOTEL D’ANGKOR

SHINTA MANI RESORT

VICTORIA ANGKOR RESORT & SPA

WHITE MANSION BOUTIQUE HOTEL PHNOM PENH

Since the early 1930s, a visit to the ancient temples of Angkor has been

synonymous with a stay at Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor. Located in the

heart of Siem Reap, a mere 8 kilometres away from the majestic Angkor

Wat, guests will appreciate the old-world Cambodian grandeur infused

with the best of modern comforts. Set within 15 acres of beautifully

landscaped French gardens and offering a fine array of bars and

restaurants and an award-winning spa.

Offer Receive a 10% discount when staying 4 nights or more. Year round.


The Shinta Mani Resort is a newly renovated boutique property centrally

located in the leafy French Quarter between The Royal Gardens and

the Old Market Area just 15 minutes from Angkor Wat. The courtyard-

style resort’s 62 rooms & junior suite offer terrace or balcony views of

the stunning swimming pool and flourishing tropical gardens. Facilities

include an all-day dining café/restaurant. The spa is located at the

nearby Shinta Mani Club which is available to all guests at the Resort.



Within the four star Victoria Angkor Resort & Spa enjoy the comfort,

elegance and superb refinement of the French Art de Vivre in the

heart of Siem Reap. The Victoria Angkor Resort & Spa is located only 5

miles from the international airport, and 4 miles from the Angkor World

Heritage site. Rooms are stylish with pool views. Facilities include a

swimming pool, kids’ pool and club, spa, sauna, massage, jacuzzi,

library and choice of bars and restaurants.



This delightful hotel enjoys a central location within walking distance of

some of the attractions of Phnom Penh. Hotel facilities include a full-

service spa, restaurant, a 25m outdoor pool, café and rooftop terrace.

The White Mansion’s 30 rooms and suites are among the nicest and the

largest in Phnom Penh. They offer a secluded atmosphere with comfort

and elegance. Several with balcony, terrace, cityview or poolview. After a

busy day in tropical Phnom Penh guests will enjoy the refreshing pool.

Offer Receive a 10% discount when staying 4 nights or more. Year round.


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BURMAA journey into Burma (Myanmar) is a journey into the Asia of days gone by. Visitors

to Burma find that their ventures off the well-trodden tourist trail are rewarded with

a wonderful, often touching travel experience rich in old-world atmosphere, natural

beauty, culture and memorable encounters with its engaging people.

Getting there There are no direct flights from the UK to Burma. However there are several good choices for connecting flights. Thai Airways offer flights to Yangon via Bangkok, with Malaysia Airlines via Kuala Lumpur and Singapore Airlines via Singapore.

Guide to the country Burma is a country of great beauty and diversity, dominated by lush mountain slopes covered with alpine forests in the far north and steamy jungles in the south; broad flat plains in central regions like Bagan; the famous Irrawaddy River and over 1199 miles of coastline boasting some of Asia’s most stunning beaches. Your travels in the country will take in some of the gorgeous river and mountain scenery in the country, the extraordinary temple studded plains of Bagan, the tranquil villages around lovely Inle Lake as well as the famous cities of Mandalay and Yangon. While these are the country’s biggest cities, they are relaxed, at times sleepy - a far cry from the huge size and frenetic pace of many other cities in Asia.

When to go Most of Burma lies within the Tropic Zone. It has a monsoon climate with three main seasons. The hottest period is between

February and May, with little or no rain and temperatures between 30°C and 35°C. The rainy season exists from May to October when the country receives most of its yearly rainfall and temperatures ranging from 25°C to 30°C. You can expect dry, cooler weather from October to February with temperatures at 20°C – 25°C but as cold as 5°C in higher altitudes or at Inle Lake.

Important to note British passport holders require a visa to visit Burma and a visa must be obtained before you depart the UK. It can be arranged up to 3 months before your scheduled arrival date into Burma. A full passport is required, valid for at least 6 months beyond the date of your departure from Burma. Once issued, the visa is valid for 3 months with a maximum stay in the country of 28 days. Assistance with obtaining a visa can be given by The Travel Visa Company. www.thetravelvisacompany.co.uk tel: 01270 250590. We strongly recommend you consult your preferred doctor

for the most up-to-date health advice at least one month prior to travel. The official language of Burma is Burmese. Basic English is widely spoken in urban areas and around popular tourist sites such as Bagan. English is well-understood and widely spoken by guides and hotel staff. The official currency is Kyat (MMK). US Dollars are widely accepted and you are advised to take US Dollars with you. Credit cards are not widely accepted and there are no ATMs.

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THE BEST OF BURMA 10 Day Private Tour

Price includes• 8 nights 4-star accommodation• 1 night river cruise• Breakfast daily, 1 lunch and 1 dinner• English-speaking guide• Air-conditioned vehicles• Flights within Burma

Day 1 Arrive Rangoon Arrive in Yangon where

you will be met by the guide at the airport and

transferred to the Sule Shangri-La Hotel for a

2 night stay. Superior room. Rest of the day at

leisure.

Day 2 Yangon City Tour Although Yangon is

no longer the official capital of the country it

is still one of the most dynamic and busiest

cities in the country. Today explore the many

cultural and historical highlights that can be

found in between the hustle and bustle of city

life. Drive to downtown for a photo stop around

the Town Hall and old streets lined with colonial

buildings. See the colossal reclining Buddha of

Chauk Htat Gyi Pagoda and take a stroll in the

park at Kandawgyi Lake. Then visit Botataung

Pagoda and jetty. In the afternoon, grab a

bargain at Scott Market (closed on Mondays

and public holidays). In the evening take in

the spectacular view of Shwedagon Pagoda

all lit up. This is the most important Buddhist

site in the country and is said to hold strands

of Buddha’s hair and other relics. The spire

reaches up to 110m and is encrusted with

diamonds and covered by gold plate.

Day 3 Yangon - Mandalay This morning,

transfer to the airport for your flight to

Mandalay. Be met on arrival and transferred

to the Mandalay Hill Hotel for a 1 night stay.

Superior Palace View room. Mandalay is the

last of the royal cities and is encompassed by

smaller capital cities dotted around its edges.

The centre piece of the city is the reconstructed

palace which is surrounded by a large moat.

Visit Mahamuni Pagoda with its statues created

in Buddha’s true likeness. See the largest book

in the world at Kuthodaw Pagoda, where stories

are etched upon 79 stone tablets and visit

Shwenandaw monastery. Afternoon free.

Day 4 RV Paukan Cruise Transfer to the jetty.

The embarkation time is 1000 hrs at Sagaing

jetty and cast off after half an hour. Welcome

Cocktail and briefing in the Saloon or Sundeck

followed by Lunch. Your Cabin is on the Main

Deck. Cruise all day long. In the late afternoon

stop at Yandabo, a village specialising in

Pot-Making. Visit the Pot workshops, the

monastery and the school. Moor overnight

near the village of Shwe Nann Tint.

Day 5 RV Paukan Cruise Early in the morning

continue downstream to Bagan. After

breakfast (if time permits) visit another typical

river village. Enjoy the sunrise near Bagan.

Passengers will disembark at Bagan Aye Yar

jetty by 0930 hrs. Disembark from the cruise

for sightseeing in Bagan, where the landscape

is a sea of stupas and temples. This ancient

city and important archaeological site once

Discover exotic Burma - cut off

from Western influence for so

long - on this journey through

its highlights; a land spiked

with temples, cities built on

river edges and whole towns

floating on a lake. Meet the

friendly people of this charming

land at markets, villages and

monasteries. Accommodation

is in mainly 4 star hotels. This

tour is on a private basis so

there are no set departure dates.

International flight prices are not

included in this itinerary.

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held more that 10,000 Buddhist temples,

pagodas and monasteries. Only 2,200 temples

survive. This afternoon explore some of these

temples and watch the sunset from atop

Shwesandaw Pagoda.

Day 6 Bagan Morning visit to Manuha Temple,

a small square shaped building that is steeped

in legend and later to Myinkaba village. See

its ancient temple adorned with paintings and

then pop into a local craft shop where lacquer

ware is expertly made by hand. Stroll through

the villages to see how the local community

lives. Stop at toddy palm plantations and huts

to see how palm wine is collected. Watch the

sunset over Bagan. Stay 1 night at the Thazin

Garden Hotel in a Deluxe room.

Day 7 Bagan - Inle Lake Your guide will

meet you at your hotel and transfer you to

the airport for your flight to Heho. On arrival

you’ll be transferred to Inle Lake. Take a

boat ride across the lake and admire the

unique one-legged rowing style as you pass

by floating gardens filled with fruits and

vegetables. Visit the Phaung Daw Oo Pagoda,

famed for its five small gold-gilded Buddha

images. See traditional handicrafts villages

and Nga Pe Kyaung Monastery better known

as the Jumping Cat Monastery. Although

the performing cats no longer remain, the

monastery houses an impressive collection of

Buddha images. Check in and stay 2 nights at

Inle Resort in a Garden Cottage.

Day 8 Inle Lake - Indein Morning visit to one

of the local markets then see craftsman at

work building wooden boats, creating Buddha

images made from the powder of dried flowers

and watch as workers hand roll Burmese

cigars! In the afternoon, cruise to Indein

nestled on the banks of the lake. The village is

famous for its overgrown and mystifying 16th

century stupas as well its handicrafts.

Day 9 Inle Lake - Yangon This morning,

transfer to Heho airport for the flight to

Yangon. Be met on arrival and privately

transferred to The Sule Shangri-La Hotel for a

1 night stay in a Superior room.

Day 10 Yangon departure Transfer to the

airport for your flight departure.

Price from £1745 per person, twin share.

• Upgrade to 5 star Superior hotels for a

supplement of £240 per person.

4 DAY BEACH EXTENSIONAdd a 3 night stay at the beautiful beaches of

Ngapali. This makes an ideal end to your tour

of Burma. The nearest airport is Thandwe and

we can arrange flights from Heho (Inle Lake)

or from Yangon.

Price includes

• Roundtrip flights from Yangon • 3 nights Amazing Ngapali Resort • Private airport transfers


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BURMA Hotels

THAZIN GARDEN HOTEL BAGAN

SULE SHANGRI-LA, YANGON

The Thazin Garden Hotel Bagan is located on the high plain surrounded

with ancient pagodas and ruins. Due to this elevated position guests can

enjoy wonderful scenes of hilly ridges and green plains interspersed with

golden Pagodas. Accommodation is in 50 Garden View Deluxe rooms

and 17 Pagoda View Deluxe rooms. Facilities include a swimming pool,

library, spa, billiards and choice of restaurants. Relax in the beautiful,

spacious gardens.



Sule Shangri-La, Yangon, is conveniently located in downtown Yangon

near major tourist attractions, such as the Bogyoke Market (Scott

Market), Sule Pagoda, China Town and colonial buildings. Just a

10-minute drive from Shwedagon Pagoda. Facilities include an outdoor

pool, fitness centre, Jacuzzi, sauna, choice of 2 restaurants, bar and

pool bar. From the windows of your spacious room, you look out over

historic Yangon at the river, lush tropical trees and shining pagodas.

Offer 10% discount when staying 5 nights or more. Year round.


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CHATRIUM HOTEL ROYAL LAKE YANGON

Chatrium Hotel Royal Lake Yangon shines as one of the city’s topmost

hotels for pure luxury and contemporary comfort. Situated among lush

greenery and beside the famous Kandawgyi Lake, views are simply

spectacular. Every guestroom is spaciously designed and furnished, with

breathtaking views of Shwedagon Pagoda. Choose from six restaurants

and bars for delicious dining, relax by the beach-styled swimming pool,

work-out at the fitness centre and rejuvenate in the Spa.



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THE HOTEL@THARABAR GATE

Surrounded by more than 4000 ancient temples and Pagodas, you will

be enchanted by the breathtaking views. The Hotel @ Tharabar Gate is

within 5 minutes walking distance to the spectacular Ananda Temple

known as ‘The Jewel of Bagan’. The Hotel offers 83 luxury rooms

including 4 Suites. The Hotel offers 2 dining choices, one in the Tropical

Garden and as an alternative the semi-open Main Restaurant. The hotel

also features a pool side bar to relax with a cool cocktail or drinks of your

choice. Facilities include a spa and Jacuzzi.

Offer Receive a 10% discount for stays of 5 nights or more.


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BURMA Hotels and CRUISES

INLE PRINCESS RESORT

The Inle Princess Resort has a superb location on the banks of Inle

Lake offering wonderful lake, mountain and rice paddy views. Located

next to a village, this charming property features 45 traditional chalets.

For the accommodation 27 chalets are Lake Front View, 8 offer Private

Lake & Garden Views and 10 have Mountain Views. Each Chalet has

a large front-facing glass window which lets in great natural light and

provides fantastic views of the surrounding scenery. Facilities include a

restaurant, bar with a terrace to enjoy the lake views, a spa and a library.

Offer 10% discount when staying 4 nights or more. Year round.


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INLE RESORT & SPA

Magnificently located on the shores of Inle Lake, this unique Boutique

Eco-Resort & Spa is one of the finest resorts in this spectacular tourist

destination. Custom built and designed with the flair of traditional native

style architecture, the Inle Resort & Spa is distinguished by its signature

roof, prominent on the Lake; a welcome beacon to its guests. Rooms are

bright and feature wooden furnishings. Guests can enjoy the garden spa

or a drink at the bar facing the water.

Offer Receive a 10% discount for stays of 5 nights or more.


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2 & 3 DAY RIVER CRUISES RV PAUKAN

The RV Paukan offers 1 and 2 night cruises between Mandalay

and Bagan. This is a wonderful way for travellers to discover

the life of the mighty Irrawaddy River. The lovely Paukan is a

boutique hotel on the river, beautifully furnished with a unique

combination of modern and traditional motifs. The timber-

walled cabins are furnished with colonial style cupboards,

dresser and doors while the ceiling is traditional Myanmar. The

single or double beds are proper and comfortable ones and

not mere bunks, enough room for 55 passengers who will be

looked after by a 30-member crew. For luxury-living, Paukan

has suites, deluxe or superior cabins as well as singles for guest

or guides. There are two massage rooms on the lower deck

offering traditional Myanmar massage designed to give soothing

relaxation. The sun deck has a stage for cultural performances,

and a bar and lounge for relaxation and fun. The upper deck

has a lecture/ movie room. Meals in the dining room on the main

deck will include both East and West cuisine, and dinner menus

of delicious dishes. Vegetarian meals can be prepared when

informed in advance. The price is inclusive of transfer between

the ship and airport, all meals, sightseeing tours and entrance

fees at monuments. Mandalay to Bagan cruises are 1 night.

Bagan to Mandalay are 2 nights.


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BURMA RIVER CRUISES

Day 1 Mandalay Morning domestic flight

from Yangon to Mandalay. After a short visit to

Sagaing Hills to enjoy the panoramic views over

the Ayeyarwaddy River, transfer to the Road

To Mandalay berthed on the Ayeyarwady River

at Shwe Kyet Yet village. Following a welcome

meeting, the ship will set sail for Mandalay.

After lunch on board, transfer to shore by local

boat for a guided tour of the key sights of this

fabled city, regarded as the centre of Burmese

culture and Buddhist learning. Return to

Belmond Road To Mandalay for dinner and

local entertainment in the evening.

Day 2 Burmese Village & Ava Join an early

morning walking tour of Shwe Kyet Yet village

which will include alms-giving to the monks

by the ship’s crew. Enjoy breakfast while

the ship sails down to the ancient capital

of Ava. Disembark for a tour by traditional

horse and cart including a visit to an ancient

teak monastic school and the ruins of King

Bagyidaw’s palace. The rest of the day is spent

relaxing on board observing the local river life

from the top deck. Afternoon tea is served and

an on-board guide lectures on local places and

customs. A casual cocktail party is followed by

dinner on board.

Day 3 Bagan The river cruiser arrives at Bagan

where over 2,000 temples and pagodas are

scattered on an awe-inspiring plain beside the

river. A guided orientation tour introduces you

to the most important temples. After lunch you

have the opportunity to rejoin the guide and

visit the inside of some of the more significant

pagodas. Alternatively, you can hire a bicycle or

horse-drawn cart (with driver) and explore this

fascinating area on your own. Late afternoon

your guide takes you to watch the breathtaking

vista of the sun setting over the plain. Dinner

and local entertainment on board.

Day 4 Bagan After an early breakfast you are

transferred to Bagan airport for your onward

flight.


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Experience the enchanting

sights, scents and sounds of

the Irrawaddy or Chindwin

Rivers aboard the Belmond

Road to Mandalay (43 cabins)

or the Belmond Orcaella (25

cabins). Cruise itineraries vary

from 2 to 12 nights. Cabin

accommodation is spacious, air-

conditioned and large windows

that offer stunning river views.

On board you’ll enjoy a top deck

pool and bar and a gourmet

restaurant. Flights from Yangon

and sightseeing excursions are

included.

HIGHLIGHTS OF MYANMAR 3 NIGHT CRUISE

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Day 1 Flight from Yangon Morning board

Belmond Orcaella at Bagan and enjoy a

delicious lunch. Later, disembark for a guided

tour of the ancient city and witness the

unforgettable sunset over the Bagan plain.

Day 2 Bagan and Salay Start the day with

a shopping tour in Bagan and a visit to the

gilded Shwezigon Pagoda. You may also

wish to arrange a tour of Old Bagan by horse

cart or bicycle. In the afternoon, set sail

towards Salay where you can visit the Wooden

Monastery and an impressive 20ft Buddha

made of straw lacquer.

Day 3 Magwe and Min Hla Visit the port town

of Magwe and its famous Myathalon Pagoda,

devotees come from miles around to join in

religious festivals. Continue to Min Hla and for

a late afternoon visit to the local fort, the site

of a great battle during the second Anglo-

Burmese War.

Day 4 Sri Ksetra Longyi tying and Thanakha

wearing demonstration on the Observation

Deck. Afternoon visit by bus to the ancient

city Sri Ksetra (‘Fabulous City’) with its unique

cylindrical shaped stone stupas. Dating back

to the 5th-9th century, this city flourished

during the rule of the Phyu. During the 1890’s

Pyay was a booming trade town, and there is

still much activity in and around the docks.

Next, enjoy a city tour, visit the impressive

Shwe-san-daw Pagoda and the imposing

10-storey Sitting Buddha watching over this

important site.

Day 5 Shwe Taung Set out by bus on a

morning excursion to Shwe Taung town and

visit Shwe Myat Mhan Pagoda to see the only

‘bespectacled’ Buddha in Myanmar (thought

to have curing powers). On the way back,

discover local industry with a visit to a local

sweets confectioner and a bamboo shoot

pickle maker. Return to Belmond Orcaella

and depart from Pyay. Spend the afternoon

relaxing on board and taking in the scenery.

Day 6 Zalon and Danuphyu Disembark at the

small port of Zalon. Take a tuk tuk along the

main street, lined with stunning colonial-style

wooden houses and large tropical gardens.

Arrive at the Pyi Taw Pyan Pagoda. Continue

to another little-visited town called Danuphyu.

This is where the revered General Maha

Bandula led a Burmese defensive against the

British troops during the Anglo-Burmese War.

Day 7 Yangon Spend the morning relaxing on

the deck as you make your way to Yangon.

Join an optional excursion; choose between

shopping in Yangon or a heritage tour.

Day 8 Disembark Disembark in the late

morning for your onward travel arrangements.


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Note this cruise is also available as an 8 night

cruise with flight from Yangon and cruising

from Mandalay to Bagan.

Other cruise itineraries We can also offer the

12 night Mandalay-Chindwin-Bagan cruise

and vv. And the 11 night Mandalay-Bhamo-

Bagan cruise and vv.

THE AYEYARWADY EXPERIENCE 7 NIGHT CRUISE

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128 inspiredbyasia.co.ukCHINA

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129INSPIRED BY ASIA CHINA

CHINAChina is a country of huge contrast with big exciting cities such as Beijing and

Shanghai, rural towns and villages where old China seems to have carried on

regardless. From green paddy fields and bamboo forests to gorges and

limestone peaks China is a fascinating destination for all travellers.

Getting there There are direct flights to Beijing and Shanghai from the UK. All of China’s main cities are served by Cathay Pacific Airways via Hong Kong with connecting flights on Dragonair. The flying time is 11 hours.

Guide to the country Beijing is a great starting point for your China experience. A dynamic and growing city, it offers a wealth of historical attractions such as the impressive Great Wall of China, the labyrinthine Forbidden City and the magnificent Temple of Heaven. A stroll along Shanghai’s famous riverfront Bund shows the rapid pace at which this city is moving. Contrast the old-style Shanghai of Noel Coward with the architecture of modern China and pay a visit to the Water Village at Zhjiajiao near Shanghai. Away from the cities visit the Yangtze and Li Rivers for incredible gorge scenery and enjoy the views on a Three Gorges cruise, see the beautiful limestone peaks of Guilin and Yangshuo that seem to rise up out of the mist and take time to experience the Chinese countryside with a walk or cycle ride. See the famous Terracotta Warriors at Xian, one of the country’s great sights. It is possible to travel around China independently, however we would recommend that you consider

pre-booking an escorted tour; the English-speaking guide will be able to give you so much more background to what you are seeing and will cover all the arrangements such as transport and accommodation.

When to go China is a large country with a wide range of climatic conditions. Spring (April to May) or autumn (September to October) are good months for travelling in comfort. Summer is from June to August and is hot throughout the country and particularly humid in the south.This is also the period that experiences the most rain. Winter (November to March) sees very cold conditions (below freezing) in Beijing and the north, but comparatively mild in the south.

Important to note British passport holders must have a passport valid for six months from

the last date of the trip. A visa is required and must be obtained well in advance from the Chinese embassy. Or call The Travel Visa Company on 01270 250 590. The currency is Renminbi. For vaccination requirements please contact your local doctor.

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HIGHLIGHTS OF CHINA 10 Day Small Group Tour

Price includes• 9 nights 4-star hotel accommodation• Breakfast daily, 1 lunch and 1 dinner• 1 internal flight • Transport in air-conditioned vehicles• Entrance fees• Western tour leader based on a minimum of 7 travellers• Local English-speaking guides• Return transfers

Days 1-3 Shanghai On arrival in Shanghai,

transfer to your hotel. Admire the Art Deco

streetscapes of the trendy Bund, and roam

the peaceful Yu Garden and the old streets of

Shanghai beyond. Discover the lively Chinese

Quarter then witness the awe-inspiring feats of

the famed Shanghai acrobats as they deliver

an entertaining and jaw-dropping show. Hotel:

Park Hotel

Days 4-6 Xian Fly to Xian, China’s oldest

city which was once considered to be one

of the most culturally important in the world.

Today, Xian is a melting pot of cultures, rich

in sights and experiences. Meander through

the fascinating Muslim Quarter and see the

Big Goose Pagoda, which was built in 652 to

house the Buddhist scriptures brought back

from India. Take the chance to indulge in a

sumptuous dumpling banquet, a regional

speciality of Xian. Marvel at the intricate detail

of the countless iconic Terracotta Warriors.

These life-sized warriors and horses were

unearthed after 2,000 years, and are one of

the most important archaeological discoveries

of the 20th century. Board a high speed train

to Beijing, and transfer to your hotel on arrival.

Hotel: Mercure on Renmin Square, Novotel

Beijing Xinqiao

Days 7-10 Beijing The incredible expanse

of Tiananmen Square is breathtaking as

you traverse it by foot on your way to the

remarkable Forbidden City. Uncover one

of Beijing’s few remaining hutongs, or

backstreets, when you lunch in a local home

and take an exciting rickshaw ride. See the

city’s famous Drum Tower, the lovely temple

of Heaven, the huge model of China’s capital

city at the Beijing Planning Exhibition Hall

and the splendid Summer Palace. Travel to

Mutianyu for your chance to wander a lesser

visited section of the magnificent Great Wall

of China. At night, enjoy a farewell dinner with

your fellow travellers. On your last day, enjoy

free time until your departure transfer. Hotel:

Novotel Beijing Xinqiao


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• Upgrade to 5-star accommodation: price on

request.

The contrasts in China are both

striking and enthralling. Stroll

amongst the shining skyscrapers

in Shanghai and marvel at

Terracotta Warriors and the

melting pot of cultures in Xian.

Unveil a complex history in

Beijing and discover the culture

in a visit to a local hutong home

for lunch. Wander the vast

Tiananmen Square, and walk the

ancient Great Wall. Maximum

group size is 16. Please call for

departure dates. International


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YANGTZE & BEYOND 18 Day Small Group Tour

Price includes• 14 nights 4-star hotel accommodation• 3 nights cruise accommodation• Breakfast daily, 3 lunches and 3 dinners• 3 internal flights • Transport in air-conditioned vehicles• entrance fees• Western tour leader based on a minimum of 7 travellers• Local English-speaking guides• Return transfers

Days 1-4 Beijing Transfer to your hotel

to meet your tour leader for a welcome

drink. Walk through Tiananmen Square and

the Forbidden City. Plunge into the city’s

traditional back streets, for lunch in a local

home and a rickshaw ride. See the beating

of the drums ceremony at the Drum Tower,

and take the chance to feast on Peking

Duck. Travel to Mutianyu to walk on the Great

Wall with fewer tourists than other sites,

and perhaps browse the Wangfujing Night

Markets. Explore the impressive Temple of

Heaven and the Summer Palace. Board

a high speed train to Xian, and transfer to

your hotel on arrival. Hotels: Novotel Beijing

Xinqiao, Mercure on Renmin Square

Days 5-6 Xian In Xian, marvel at the life-size

Army of Terracotta Warriors, uncover the

vibrant Muslim Quarter and explore the holy

Big Goose Pagoda. You also have the chance

to indulge in a sumptuous dumpling banquet.

Hotel: Mercure on Renmin Square

Days 7-8 Guilin and Longsheng A short flight

ends in beautiful Guilin. Climb the stone

steps to the top of Fubo Hill for panoramic

views across the city’s rooftops and limestone

mountains beyond then head further afield

to explore an ancient town and a small tea

plantation. A day trip to Longsheng reveals a

local White Yao village for a taste of traditional

village life. Here, take a short hike and admire

the spectacular rice terraces known as the

Dragon’s Backbone. Hotel: Guilin Universal

Days 9-10 Yangshuo Cruise the Li River and

soak up the limestone karst scenery. Wander

the cobbled streets of Yangshuo and cycle

delightful backroads of local villages. Free

time to take in an evening show or browse the

markets. Hotel: Yangshuo New Century Hotel

Days 11-13 Chongqing and Yangtze River Fly to Chongqing and see the Giant Pandas

at the local zoo, before you begin your

cruise down the mighty Yangtze River to

view the scenery from your private balcony.

Float passed shiny new cities, remnants of

towns, and the amazing Three Gorges. Shore

excursions include a visit to the Three Gorges

Dam site and a cruise up the Daning River.

Note Yangtze cruise ships and itineraries

are subject to change.Hotel: Victoria Jenna

(Cruise Ship), Main Deck Superior

Days 14-18 Shanghai and Zhujiajiao Fly to

Shanghai. Admire the gorgeous, Art Deco

streetscapes of the Bund. A day trip to the

ancient water town of Zhujiajiao unveils lovely

old architecture and bridges, perched along

canals. Later, see the breathtaking Shanghai

acrobats in action. Visit the serene Yu Garden

before roaming the backstreets in the Chinese

Quarter. Enjoy a farewell dinner that evening.

On your last day, enjoy free time before your

departure transfer. Hotel: Park Hotel

Prices from £3015 per person based

on twin share. Upgrade to 5-star hotel

accommodation: prices on request.

China has so much to discover,

from the thronging cities of

Shanghai and Beijing to the

cobbled streets of Yangshuo.

Icons such as the Terracotta

Warriors and Great Wall are not

to be missed, and a sojourn into

backstreets and local homes

is a real treat. A cruise along

the Yangtze reveals soaring

mountains and tranquil rivers.

Maximum group size of 16.

Departure dates on request.


included.

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HONG KONG

Travel Hong Kong receives

direct fl ights from around the

world. There is a dedicated rail

link, the Airport Express that

offers the quickest route to the

city in just 24 minutes. The MTR

system offers connections to all

parts of the city. We can arrange

for you to be met on arrival at

Hong Kong International Airport

and transferred privately to your

chosen accommodation. From

£40.

Attractions Enjoy fantastic views

of the Hong Kong skyline from

Victoria Peak, reached via the

Peak Tram. Shop in the vibrant,

neon-lit streets of Kowloon, or

the smart shopping centres in

Causeway Bay. Visit the fi shing

village of Aberdeen for Stanley

Market. Enjoy a ride on the Star

Ferry that links Kowloon with

Hong Kong Island. Take the

cable-car to outlying Lantau

Island, one of 260 outlying

islands, for 360° views.

When to go November to

February is a good time to

visit, when humidity is at its

lowest with little rainfall and

generally sunny weather. The

rainy season tends to be April

to June and the hottest months

are July to September when the

temperature can reach 35°C.

Hong Kong has 5000 years of Chinese

culture and only 150 years of colonial

rule. The gateway to China, Hong Kong

has lost none of its appeal since the hand

over in 1997. Hong Kong Island, the birth

place of the former British colony offers a

spectacular skyline, while a Star Ferry ride

across the magnifi cent harbour brings you

to vibrant Kowloon, offering a fascinating

mix of streets, malls and markets.

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FE 2016 FINAL.indd 132 13/08/2015 15:29


HONG KONG Hotels

HARBOUR GRAND HONG KONG

METROPARK HOTEL CAUSEWAY BAY

KOWLOON SHANGRI-LA, HONG KONG

HARBOUR GRAND KOWLOON

The Harbour Grand Hotel, part of the Harbour Plaza Group, occupies

a superb location on Hong Hong Island, close to Causeway Bay and

offering some of the best, unobstructed harbour views in Hong Kong.

Wanchai and Central are nearby and with an MTR station a few minutes’

walk away; guests have easy access to the rest of the city. All 828 rooms

offer superb harbour views. Facilities include a large outdoor heated pool,

kid’s pool, jacuzzi, gym, a spa, bars and a great choice of restaurants.

Offer Receive 4 nights for the price of 3. Dates vary, call for details.


Floor-to-ceiling windows feature throughout the 33 storey Metropark

Hotel, providing magnifi cent views of the famous Victoria Harbour and

Park. Located in Causeway Bay, one of Hong Kong’s leading shopping

and entertainment districts. Facilities include an impressive rooftop

outdoor pool & jacuzzi (closed in Jan and Feb), sauna, gym, restaurant

and bar. The nearest MTR station is a two-minute walk from the hotel and

there is also a free scheduled hotel shuttle bus to Causeway Bay.

Offer Receive free breakfast daily for 3 nights stay. Dates vary.


The award-winning Kowloon Shangri-La is conveniently situated in the

Tsimshatsui East shopping and entertainment district overlooking the

world famous Victoria Harbour. The rooms and suites are among the most

spacious in Hong Kong, featuring a fl oor-to-ceiling bay window with views

of the city or harbour. Upgrade to the Horizon Club and benefi t from club

access and free breakfast daily. Facilities include 7 restaurants, bar and

lounge, gym, indoor swimming pool, whirlpool and sauna.

Offer Free room upgrade for 4 night stays. Dates vary, call for details.


The Harbour Grand Kowloon enjoys one of the most unique locations in

the city, right on the Kowloon waterfront, just a 5 minute drive from the

MTR station and bustling Tsimshatsui by free hotel shuttle bus. Guests

have a choice of courtview or the highly recommended harbourview

rooms. Upgrade to a club room for club lounge access and free breakfast.

Facilities include a superb rooftop pool, whirlpool, sauna, steam room,

fi tness centre, bar and a choice of six renowned restaurants.

Offer Free room upgrade for 3 night stays. Dates vary, call for details.

Prices £75 per person per night, based on room only.

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SINGAPORE134

SINGAPORE

Singapore is about as westernised as Asia

gets. A sparkling, clean city that retains

a grip on tradition, Singapore offers some

of the world’s best shopping and hotels,

along with some fantastic cuisine.

Be sure to check out Chinatown, Boat

Quay and Little India. Sentosa is

Singapore’s own island resort getaway.

Located just a 15-minute drive from the

city, it is accessible by cable car, taxi or

pre-booked transfer.

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FE 2016 FINAL.indd 134 13/08/2015 15:29

135INSPIRED BY ASIA SINGAPORE

SINGAPORE Hotels

SHANGRI-LA HOTEL, SINGAPORE

NAUMI HOTEL THE SWISSOTEL THE STAMFORD

PARK HOTEL CLARKE QUAY

Consistently ranked as one of the top luxury hotels in Asia, Shangri-La

Hotel, Singapore sits amidst 15 acres of lush gardens. It is a rarity to

have such space in the city, just a fi ve-minute stroll from Orchard Road.

There are 747 luxury rooms and suites in three distinctive wings; the

contemporary Tower Wing, the tropical Garden Wing (pictured) and the

exclusive Valley Wing. Facilities include an outdoor pool, 24hr gym, spa,

sauna and choice of restaurants.



Naumi Hotel is an intimate retreat in Singapore featuring 73 elegantly-

appointed rooms. Naumi Hotel is a state-of-the-art boutique hotel set in

the heart of the Singapore’s Central Business District and a myriad of

inner-city shopping centres. If you fancy tranquillity and sheer indulgence

amidst designer dwellings, you can expect to create unforgettable

memories at Naumi Hotel, Singapore’s best kept secret. Facilities include

a superb rooftop pool, an all-day dining restaurant, bar and fi tness centre.



The luxury Swissotel The Stamford, one of the tallest hotels in Southeast

Asia, is located in the heart of the city, amidst world-class shopping,

entertainment and the Singapore central business district. Facilities

include 11 restaurants and fi ve bars, two outdoor swimming pools, six

tennis courts, a spa and a state of the art fi tness club. Classic rooms are

spacious and can accommodation up to 2 adults and 2 children in two

double beds. All rooms enjoy superb city views.

Offer Bonus night offers. Dates vary call for details.


Park Hotel Clarke Quay, with its classic architecture is a tropical retreat in

the heart of the cosmopolitan city. Facing the Singapore River, Park Hotel

Clarke Quay’s 336 guestrooms and suites provide guests with sweeping

views of the city skyline and the country’s famous historic sea-trading

artery. Facilities include a 25 metre outdoor pool, Jacuzzi, a spectacular

deck and bar with cabana style pavilions and restaurant. Robertson Quay

offers an array of bars and restaurants all within easy walking distance.

Offer Receive 3 nights for the price of 2. Offer dates vary call for details.


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FE 2016 FINAL.indd 135 13/08/2015 15:29

JAPAN

JAPAN

136

Japan is a country of many contrasts,

where the very latest in high-tech vies

with age-old traditions. Experience the

bustling city of Tokyo, the traditional

imperial city of Kyoto, iconic Mount

Fuji and the beautiful countryside.

It’s a delightful destination that’s full

of surprises.

FE 2016 FINAL.indd 136 13/08/2015 15:29

137INSPIRED BY ASIA JAPAN

HIGHLIGHTS OF JAPAN 10 Day Small Group Tour

Price includes• 8 nights hotel accommodation• 1 night Ryokan accommodation• Breakfast daily and 2 dinners• 6 day trains• Transport in air-conditioned vehicles• Entrance fees• Luggage transport• Western tour leader based on a minimum of 7 travellers• Local English-speaking guides• Return transfers (on first and last day of tour only)

Days 1-3 Tokyo & Hakone Be met at the

airport on your arrival in Tokyo. A carefully

crafted walking tour immerses you in the

tantalizing streets of Tokyo. Look down on the

city from the Tokyo Tower and take a stunning

river cruise to Asakusa. After an early morning

trip to the massive Tsukiji Fish Market, travel

by train to Hakone, a picturesque town

famous for its hot springs and natural beauty.

From your base at a Japanese-style inn, cruise

on Lake Ashi-no for a chance to spot majestic

Mount Fuji. Hotels: Grand Prince Hotel

Takanawa, Hakone Yumoto Hotel

Days 4-5 Takayama A thrilling ride on the

Shinkansen (bullet train) brings you to Nagoya

and then on to Takayama. Set in the remote

mountains of the Hida Region, Takayama

is renowned for its skilful artisans and sake

breweries. Explore the Old Town on foot,

stopping at some of the traditional old houses

and delightful local museums and wander a

vibrant morning market. Gain an insight in to

the rich history of the area at the Takayama

History & Art Museum before enjoying an

afternoon at leisure. Hotel: Best Western Hotel

Takayama

Days 6- 10 Kyoto and Hiroshima Relish

some free time to explore Takayama before

taking the Shinkansen to Kyoto, filled with

shrines and temples, countless teahouses

and a thriving geisha culture. Explore the

historic Gion region then amble amongst the

city’s lovely gardens. Be enlightened at the

Buddhist Kiyomizudera Temple and gaze

upon the gorgeous Golden Pavilion. Enjoy

an exclusive Maiko dinner and performance

in Kyoto, and learn about the lives of the

apprentice Geishas. Take a day trip to

reinvented Hiroshima to visit the informative

Bomb Museum, Peace Memorial and

Miyajima Island. Enjoy a free day in Kyoto on

day 9 or perhaps visit Nara, which is close

to Kyoto. Nara boasts historic World Heritage

listed temples and a tranquil Deer Park.

Enjoy free time on your last day before a train

transfer to the airport. Hotel: Mitsui Garden

Hotel Kyoto Sanjo


share.

Experience the many faces of

Japan, from dazzling streets

in Tokyo to antique teahouses

in Kyoto. Speed through the

countryside on the bullet train

and stay in a traditional inn

near Mount Fuji. Delight in a

tea ceremony and walk the

absorbing streets of Takayama.

Discover the thriving geisha

culture and take a touching

trip to Hiroshima. Leave with a

heartfelt understanding of this

mysterious land. Maximum

group size of 16. Departure

dates on request. International


FE 2016 FINAL.indd 137 13/08/2015 15:29


Inspired by Asia is happy to

recommend The Travel Visa

Company Ltd, one of the UK’s

top visa specialists. Their staff

maintain good relations with

the various Embassies, High

Commissions and Consulates

located in London, Birmingham

and Manchester.

What’s more, because they use

their own couriers to collect the

visas when they are ready, the

Travel Visa Company Ltd is able

to closely track the progress of

their clients’ visa applications

to provide a friendly and

personalised service.

For Thailand, Malaysia, and Japan British

passport holders do not require a visa for

these destinations, unless staying for more

than 30 days.

Laos British passport holders must obtain

the visa on arrival. This can be done at both

Vientiane and Luang Prabang Airports as well

as the main border crossings. A tourist visa

will be valid for 30 days and costs US$35.

Two passport-sized photographs are also

required.

Vietnam British Citizen passport holders

making a single entry into Vietnam for up to

15 days (for all purposes) are exempt from

requiring a visa to travel. The visa exemption

period will start from 1 July 2015 and end on

30 June 2016. To qualify for this exemption

your passport must have a minimum of 6

months validity left and you must hold proof

of onward or return fl ights. Those travelling

to Vietnam for stays of more than 15 days

or for multiple entries will still require a

visa to enter. Please contact the Visa Travel

Company for the very latest information.

Cambodia British passport holders require a

visa to visit Cambodia, which can be obtained

on arrival or before you travel. Visas take 5

working days to issue in Embassy, cost £25

and the Travel Visa Company service charge

is £35. You can apply for a Cambodian

visa up to 3 months before you travel.

Once issued, the visa is valid for 3 months

with a maximum stay in the country of 30

days. Please allow 10-15 working days total

processing time.

China British passport holders require

a visa to visit China and a visa must be

obtained before you depart the UK. Visas

take 4 working days to issue in the Embassy.

Standard visas cost £96 and The Travel Visa

Company charge is £32. You can apply for a

China visa up to 3 months before you travel.

Once issued the visa is valid for 3 months

with a maximum stay in the country of 30

days. Please allow 10-15 working days total

processing time.

Burma British passport holders require a visa

to visit Burma and a visa must be obtained

before you depart the UK. It can be arranged

up to 3 months before your scheduled arrival

date into Burma. A full passport is required,

valid for 6 months beyond the date of your

departure from Burma. Once issued, the visa

is valid for 3 months with a maximum stay

of 28 days in the country. A visa is £14, with

The Travel Visa Company service charge an

additional £46.50.

Important to notePlease ensure your passport has at least six

months validity remaining from the return

date of your trip.

Embassy fees can vary, depending on the

type and validity of the visa requested. All

service charges quoted are excluding VAT

and correct at the time of publishing.

Please note these prices should be used as

a guide only. Please contact the Visa Travel

Company for the very latest prices and visa

requirements.

The Travel Visa Companycall 01270 250 590 or visit:

www.thetravelvisacompany.co.uk

YOUR VISA REQUIREMENTS

FE 2016 FINAL.indd 138 13/08/2015 15:29




Telephone 01423 565111 • www.inspiredbyasia.co.uk

Brochure designed by Andrew Bogle. Printed by Focus All Media.

ABTA No. Y1862 / V8887

Your contract is with Inspired By Asia, a division of The Curzon Corporation Ltd, a member of ABTA.

1. Your Booking ContractWhen you make a booking you guarantee that you have the authority to accept and do accept on behalf of your party the terms of these booking conditions. A contract will exist as soon as we issue our confi rmation invoice. This contract is made on the terms of these booking conditions, which are governed by English Law, and the jurisdiction of the English Courts. You may however, choose the law and jurisdiction of Scotland or Northern Ireland if you wish to do so.

2. Your Financial ProtectionWe provide full fi nancial protection for our package holidays. When you buy an ATOL protected air holiday package from us you will receive a Confi rmation Invoice and an ATOL Certifi cate from us (or via our authorised agent through which you booked) confi rming your arrangements and your protection under our Air Travel Organiser’s Licence number 2949. In the unlikely event of our insolvency, the CAA will ensure that you are not stranded abroad and will arrange to refund any money you have paid to us for an advance booking. For further information visit the ATOL website at www.atol.org.uk When you buy a package holiday that doesn’t include a fl ight, protection is provided by way of a bond held by ABTA, the Travel Association (ABTA Y1862). If you book arrangements other than a package from this brochure, your monies are protected by way of a bond held by ABTA.

3. ABTAWe are a Member of ABTA, membership number Y1862. We are obliged to maintain a high standard of service to you by ABTA’s Code of Conduct. We can also offer you an arbitration scheme for the resolution of disputes arising out of, or in connection with this contract. The arbitration scheme is arranged by ABTA and administered independently. It provides for a simple and inexpensive method of arbitration on documents alone with restricted liability on you in respect of costs. The scheme does not apply to claims for an amount greater than £5,000 per person. There is also a limit of £25,000 per booking. Neither does it apply to claims which are solely in respect of physical injury or illness or their consequences. The scheme can however deal with compensation claims which include an element of minor injury or illness subject to a limit of £1,500 on the amount the arbitrator can award per person in respect of this element. Your request for arbitration must be received by ABTA within eighteen months of the date of return from holiday. Outside this time limit arbitration under the Scheme may still be available if we agree, but the ABTA Code does not require such agreement. For injury and illness claims, you can request the ABTA Mediation Procedure and we have the option to agree to mediation Further information on the Code and ABTA’s assistance in resolving disputes can be found on www.abta.com

4. Your Booking PriceWe reserve the right to alter the prices shown in the brochure. You will be advised of the current price of the arrangements that you wish to book before your contract is confi rmed. When you make your booking you must pay a deposit of £300 per person or 10 percent of the holiday cost (whichever is the greater). For certain arrangements, especially extended overland tours, higher deposits may be required and you will be notifi ed at the time of booking. The balance of the price of your travel arrangements must be paid at least 10 weeks before your departure date. If the deposit and/or balance is not paid in time, we shall cancel your travel arrangements. If the balance is not paid in time we shall retain your deposit. All monies you pay to the travel agent are held by him on our behalf at all times. Prices in the brochure were calculated using the following exchange rates as at 12 August 2015: THB 55.00, MYR 6.20, USD 1.55, SGD 2.20, HKD 12.00. Changes in transportation costs, including the cost of fuel, dues, taxes or fees chargeable for services such as landing taxes or embarkation or disembarkation fees at ports and airports and exchange rates mean that the price of your travel arrangements may change after you have booked. However there will be no change within 30 days of your departure. We will absorb and you will not be charged for any increase equivalent to 2% of the price of your travel arrangements, which excludes any amendment charges. You will be charged for the amount over and above that. If this means that you have to pay an increase of more than 10% of the price of your travel arrangements, you will have the option of accepting a change to another holiday if we are able to offer one (if this is of equivalent or higher quality you will not have to pay more but if it is of lower quality you will be refunded the difference in price), or cancelling and receiving a full refund of all monies paid, except for any amendment charges. Should you decide to cancel for this reason, you must exercise your right to do so within 14 days from the issue date printed on your fi nal invoice. Should the price of your arrangements go down due to the changes mentioned above, by more than 2% of the total cost, then any refund due will be paid to you. However, please note that travel arrangements are not always purchased in local currency and some apparent changes have no impact on the price of your travel due to contractual and other protection in place.

5. If You Change Your BookingIf, after our confi rmation invoice has been issued, you wish to change your travel arrangements in any way, for example your chosen departure date or accommodation, we will do our utmost to make these changes but it may not always be possible. Any request for changes to be made must be in writing from the person who made the booking or your travel agent. You will be asked to pay an administration charge of £30 per altered item, and any further cost we incur in making this alteration. You should be aware that these costs could increase the closer to the departure date that changes are made and you should contact us as soon as possible. Note: Certain travel arrangements (e.g. (but not limited to) air tickets, accommodation, rail or touring products) may not be changeable after a reservation has been made and any alteration request could incur a cancellation charge of up to 100% of that part of the arrangements.

6. If You Cancel Your BookingYou, or any member of your party, may cancel your travel arrangements at any time. Written notifi cation from the person who made the booking or your travel agent on your behalf must be received at our offi ces. Since we incur costs in cancelling your travel arrangements, you will have to pay the applicable cancellation charges up to the maximum shown in clause 7. Note: if the reason for your cancellation is covered under the terms of your insurance policy, you may be able to reclaim these charges.

7. If We Change or Cancel Your BookingIt is unlikely that we will have to make any changes to your travel arrangements, but we do plan the arrangements many months in advance. Occasionally, we may have to make changes and we reserve the right to do so at any time. Most of these changes will be minor and we will advise you or your travel agent of them at the earliest possible date. We also reserve the right in any circumstances to cancel your travel arrangements. For example, if the minimum number of clients required for a particular travel arrangement is not reached, we may have to cancel it. However, we will not cancel your travel arrangements less than 10 weeks before your departure date, except for reasons of force majeure or failure by you to pay the fi nal balance. If we are unable to provide the booked travel arrangements, you can either have a refund of all monies paid or accept an offer of alternative travel arrangements of comparable standard from us, if available (we will refund any price difference if the alternative is of a lower value). If it is necessary to

cancel your travel arrangements, we will pay to you compensation as set out in this clause. Any changes to the actual airline after you have received your tickets will be notifi ed to you as soon as possible and in all cases at check-in or at the boarding gate. Such a change is deemed to be a minor change. Other examples of minor changes include alteration of your outward/return fl ights by less than 12 hours, changes to aircraft type, change of accommodation to another of the same standard. If we make a major change to your booking, we will inform you or your travel agent as soon as reasonably possible if there is time before your departure. You will have the choice of either accepting the change of arrangements, accepting an offer of alternative travel arrangements of comparable standard from us if available (we will refund any price difference if the alternative is of a lower value), or cancelling your booking and receiving a full refund of all monies paid. In all cases, except where the major change arises due to reasons of force majeure, we will pay compensation as detailed below:*

Period before departure within which notice of Cancellation or major change is received by us or notifi ed to you

IF WE MAKE A MAJOR CHANGE TO YOUR HOLIDAYAmount you will receive from us

IF WE CANCELYOUR HOLIDAY

Amount you will receive from us

IF YOU CANCELYOUR HOLIDAY

MAXIMUM amount ofcancellation charge*

More than 56 days56-43 days42-41 days30-0 days

Nil£20£30£50

Deposit onlyMonies paid + £20Monies paid + £30Monies paid + £50

Deposit only50% of holiday cost75% of holiday cost100% of holiday cost

The compensation that we offer does not exclude you from claiming more if you are entitled to do so.

*In some circumstances higher cancellation fees may be applied by certain product suppliers e.g. (but not limited to) airlines, accommodation, rail or touring products. Should this be the case you will be notifi ed of such fees before confi rming your booking and these will apply in the event of a cancellation. These fees may be any amount up to 100% of the value of the product or booking value.

Force Majeure: This means that we will not pay you compensation if we have to cancel or change your travel arrangements in any way because of unusual or unforeseeable circumstances beyond our control. These can include, for example, war, riot, industrial dispute, terrorist activity and its consequences, natural or nuclear disaster, fi re,

adverse weather conditions, epidemics and pandemics, unavoidable technical problems with transport. In accordance with EU Regulation 2111/2005 we are required to advise you of the actual carrier operating your fl ights.

8. If You Have A ComplaintIf you have a problem or any cause for complaint with your travel arrangements, please report it immediately directly to the supplier (e.g. the hotel manager), and as soon as possible bring it to the attention of our local representative / agent. They will try to rectify the problem at the time. If no representative/agent is available, or if they are unable to resolve the matter to your satisfaction, please refer to your travel documents for our contact details. If your complaint cannot be resolved locally having reported it, you must inform our representative/agent in writing whilst overseas and follow this up in writing to us within 28 days of your return home. If you fail to follow this procedure, we cannot accept responsibility for any problem or complaint that could have been rectifi ed there and then had you notifi ed us, the supplier or our representative/agent at the time. For all problems or complaints, failure to comply with this procedure may mean that your right to claim any compensation you may otherwise have been entitled to may be affected or lost as a result.

9. Our Liability to YouIf the contract we have with you is not performed or is improperly performed by us or our suppliers we will pay you appropriate compensation if this has affected the enjoyment of your travel arrangements. However we will not be liable where any failure in the performance of the contract is due to: you; or a third party unconnected with the provision of the travel arrangements and where the failure is unforeseeable or unavoidable; or unusual and unforeseeable circumstances beyond our control, the consequences of which could not have been avoided even if all due care had been exercised; or an event which we or our suppliers, even with all due care, could not foresee or forestall. Inspired by Asia does not accept any liability for any services or facilities which your hotel or any other supplier agrees to provide for you where the services or facilities are not advertised in our brochure and we have not agreed to arrange them. Excursions or other tours that you may choose to book or pay for whilst you are on holiday are not part of your package holiday provided by us. For any excursion or other tour that you book, your contract will be with the operator of the excursion or tour and not with us. We are not responsible for the provision of the excursion or tour or for anything that happens during the course of its provision by the operator. Our liability, except in cases involving death, injury or illness, shall be limited to a maximum of two times the cost of your travel arrangements. Our liability will also be limited in accordance with and/or in an identical manner with any relevant international convention. You can ask for copies of the transport companies’ contractual terms, or the international conventions, from our offi ces in Harrogate. Under EU law (Regulation 261/2004) you have rights in some circumstances to refunds and/or compensation from your airline in cases of denied boarding, cancellation or delay to fl ights. Full details of these rights will be publicised at EU airports and will also be available from airlines. Your right to a refund and/or compensation from us is set out in clause 7. If any payments to you are due from us, any payment made to you by the airline will be deducted from this amount. If your airline does not comply with these rules you should complain to the Air Transport Users’ Council on 020 7240 6061 www.auc.org.uk

10. Prompt Assistance OverseasIf the contract we have with you is not performed or is improperly performed as a result of failures attributable to a third party unconnected with the provision of the services, or as a result of failures due to unusual and unforeseeable circumstances beyond our control, the consequences of which could not have been avoided even if all due care had been exercised, or an event which we or our suppliers, even with all due care, could not foresee or forestall, and you suffer an injury or other material loss, we will offer you such prompt assistance as is reasonable in the circumstances. This brochure is our responsibility, as your tour operator. It is not issued on behalf of, and does not commit the airlines mentioned herein or any airline whose services are used in the course of your travel arrangements. Please note that in accordance with Air Navigation Orders in order to qualify for infant status, a child must be under 2 years of age on the date of its return fl ight.

Published August 2015. Prices valid from January 2016. Booking conditions valid from 1 September 2015.Registered Offi ce Milton House, 33a Milton Road, Hampton, Middlesex TW12 2LL.

BOOKING CONDITIONS

Your Financial Protection When you buy an ATOL protected fl ight or fl ight inclusive holiday from us you will receive an ATOL Certifi cate. This lists what is fi nancially protected, where you can get information on what this means for you and who to contact if things go wrong.



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Telephone 01423 565111 www.inspiredbyasia.co.uk

ABTA No. Y1862 / V8887

Ask your travel agent for a copy of our Australia and New Zealand brochure

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Inspired By Asia brochure 2016

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Transcript of Inspired By Asia brochure 2016