Inspired by asia Far East brochure 2015
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Transcript of Inspired by asia Far East brochure 2015
INSPIRED BY ASIA2 Grove Park Court, Harrogate, North Yorkshire HG1 4DP
Telephone 01423 565111 www.inspiredbyaustralasia.co.uk
Ask your travel agent for a copy of our Australia and New Zealand brochure.
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
FAR
EA
ST 20
15IN
SPIR
ED
BY
ASIA
Best Tour Operator 2014as voted by AITO Independent Travel Agents
FE 4-PAGE COVER 2015 - 2nd draft_Layout 1 13/08/2014 20:06 Page 1
2 Grove Park Court, Harrogate, North Yorkshire HG1 4DP
Telephone 01423 565111 www.inspiredbyasia.co.uk
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
BOOKING CONDITIONS
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 isfinancially protected, where you can get information on what this means for you and who to contact if things go wrong.
Brochure designed by Andrew Bogle. Printed by Focus All Media.
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 partythe terms of these booking conditions. A contract will exist as soon as we issue our confirmation invoice. This contractis made on the terms of these booking conditions, which are governed by English Law, and the jurisdiction of theEnglish 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 financial protection for our package holidays. When you buy an ATOL protected air holiday packagefrom us you will receive a Confirmation Invoice and an ATOL Certificate from us (or via our authorised agent throughwhich you booked) confirming your arrangements and your protection under our Air Travel Organiser’s Licence number2949. In the unlikely event of our insolvency, the CAA will ensure that you are not stranded abroad and will arrange torefund any money you have paid to us for an advance booking. For further information visit the ATOL website atwww.atol.org.uk When you buy a package holiday that doesn’t include a flight, protection is provided by way of a bondheld by ABTA, the Travel Association (ABTA Y1862). If you book arrangements other than a package from thisbrochure, 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 youby 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. Itprovides for a simple and inexpensive method of arbitration on documents alone with restricted liability on you in re-spect of costs. The scheme does not apply to claims for an amount greater than £5,000 per person. There is also alimit of £25,000 per booking. Neither does it apply to claims which are solely in respect of physical injury or illness ortheir consequences. The scheme can however deal with compensation claims which include an element of minor in-jury or illness subject to a limit of £1,500 on the amount the arbitrator can award per person in respect of this ele-ment. Your request for arbitration must be received by ABTA within eighteen months of the date of return fromholiday. Outside this time limit arbitration under the Scheme may still be available if we agree, but the ABTA Codedoes not require such agreement. For injury and illness claims, you can request the ABTA Mediation Procedure and wehave the option to agree to mediation Further information on the Code and ABTA’s assistance in resolving disputescan 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 arrange-ments that you wish to book before your contract is confirmed. 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 ex-tended overland tours, higher deposits may be required and you will be notified at the time of booking. The balance ofthe price of your travel arrangements must be paid at least 10 weeks before your departure date. If the deposit and/orbalance is not paid in time, we shall cancel your travel arrangements. If the balance is not paid in time we shall re-tain your deposit. All monies you pay to the travel agent are held by him on our behalf at all times. Prices in thebrochure were calculated using the following exchange rates as at 13 August 2014: THB 53.00, MYR 5.20, USD 1.68,SGD 2.00, HKD 12.20. Changes in transportation costs, including the cost of fuel, dues, taxes or fees chargeable forservices such as landing taxes or embarkation or disembarkation fees at ports and airports and exchange rates meanthat the price of your travel arrangements may change after you have booked. However there will be no change within30 days of your departure. We will absorb and you will not be charged for any increase equivalent to 2% of the priceof your travel arrangements, which excludes any amendment charges. You will be charged for the amount over andabove that. If this means that you have to pay an increase of more than 10% of the price of your travel arrange-ments, you will have the option of accepting a change to another holiday if we are able to offer one (if this is ofequivalent or higher quality you will not have to pay more but if it is of lower quality you will be refunded the differ-ence 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 dateprinted on your final invoice. Should the price of your arrangements go down due to the changes mentioned above, bymore than 2% of the total cost, then any refund due will be paid to you. However, please note that travel arrange-ments are not always purchased in local currency and some apparent changes have no impact on the price of yourtravel due to contractual and other protection in place.
5. If You Change Your BookingIf, after our confirmation invoice has been issued, you wish to change your travel arrangements in any way, for exampleyour chosen departure date or accommodation, we will do our utmost to make these changes but it may not always bepossible. Any request for changes to be made must be in writing from the person who made the booking or your travelagent. You will be asked to pay an administration charge of £30 per altered item, and any further cost we incur inmaking this alteration. You should be aware that these costs could increase the closer to the departure date thatchanges are made and you should contact us as soon as possible. Note: Certain travel arrangements (e.g. (but notlimited to) air tickets, accommodation, rail or touring products) may not be changeable after a reservation has beenmade 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 notification from the per-son who made the booking or your travel agent on your behalf must be received at our offices. Since we incur costs incancelling your travel arrangements, you will have to pay the applicable cancellation charges up to the maximumshown in clause 7. Note: if the reason for your cancellation is covered under the terms of your insurance policy, youmay 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 arrangementsmany 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 minimumnumber of clients required for a particular travel arrangement is not reached, we may have to cancel it. However, wewill not cancel your travel arrangements less than 10 weeks before your departure date, except for reasons of forcemajeure or failure by you to pay the final balance. If we are unable to provide the booked travel arrangements, youcan 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 tocancel your travel arrangements, we will pay to you compensation as set out in this clause. Any changes to the actualairline after you have received your tickets will be notified to you as soon as possible and in all cases at check-in orat the boarding gate. Such a change is deemed to be a minor change. Other examples of minor changes include al-teration of your outward/return flights by less than 12 hours, changes to aircraft type, change of accommodation toanother of the same standard. If we make a major change to your booking, we will inform you or your travel agent assoon as reasonably possible if there is time before your departure. You will have the choice of either accepting thechange of arrangements, accepting an offer of alternative travel arrangements of comparable standard from us ifavailable (we will refund any price difference if the alternative is of a lower value), or cancelling your booking and re-ceiving a full refund of all monies paid. In all cases, except where the major change arises due to reasons of forcemajeure, we will pay compensation as detailed below:*
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 notified of such fees before con-firming 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 travelarrangements 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, fire,adverse weather conditions, epidemics and pandemics, unavoidable technical problems with transport. In accordancewith EU Regulation 2111/2005 we are required to advise you of the actual carrier operating your flights.
8. If You Have A ComplaintIf you have a problem or any cause for complaint with your travel arrangements, please report it immediately directlyto 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 toresolve the matter to your satisfaction, please refer to your travel documents for our contact details. If your complaintcannot be resolved locally having reported it, you must inform our representative/agent in writing whilst overseas andfollow this up in writing to us within 28 days of your return home. If you fail to follow this procedure, we cannot acceptresponsibility for any problem or complaint that could have been rectified there and then had you notified us, thesupplier or our representative/agent at the time. For all problems or complaints, failure to comply with this proceduremay mean that your right to claim any compensation you may otherwise have been entitled to may be affected or lostas 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 ap-propriate compensation if this has affected the enjoyment of your travel arrangements. However we will not be liablewhere any failure in the performance of the contract is due to: you; or a third party unconnected with the provision ofthe travel arrangements and where the failure is unforeseeable or unavoidable; or unusual and unforeseeable cir-cumstances beyond our control, the consequences of which could not have been avoided even if all due care hadbeen exercised; or an event which we or our suppliers, even with all due care, could not foresee or forestall. Inspiredby Asia does not accept any liability for any services or facilities which your hotel or any other supplier agrees to pro-vide for you where the services or facilities are not advertised in our brochure and we have not agreed to arrangethem. Excursions or other tours that you may choose to book or pay for whilst you are on holiday are not part of yourpackage holiday provided by us. For any excursion or other tour that you book, your contract will be with the operatorof the excursion or tour and not with us. We are not responsible for the provision of the excursion or tour or for any-thing that happens during the course of its provision by the operator. Our liability, except in cases involving death, in-jury or illness, shall be limited to a maximum of two times the cost of your travel arrangements. Our liability will alsobe limited in accordance with and/or in an identical manner with any relevant international convention. You can askfor copies of the transport companies' contractual terms, or the international conventions, from our offices in Harro-gate. Under EU law (Regulation 261/2004) you have rights in some circumstances to refunds and/or compensationfrom your airline in cases of denied boarding, cancellation or delay to flights. Full details of these rights will be publi-cised at EU airports and will also be available from airlines. Your right to a refund and/or compensation from us isset out in clause 7. If any payments to you are due from us, any payment made to you by the airline will be deductedfrom 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 athird party unconnected with the provision of the services, or as a result of failures due to unusual and unforeseeablecircumstances beyond our control, the consequences of which could not have been avoided even if all due care hadbeen exercised, or an event which we or our suppliers, even with all due care, could not foresee or forestall, and yousuffer 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 airlinesmentioned herein or any airline whose services are used in the course of your travel arrangements. Please note that inaccordance with Air Navigation Orders in order to qualify for infant status, a child must be under 2 years of age onthe date of its return flight.
Published 25 August 2014. Prices valid from January 2015. Booking conditions valid from 1 September 2014.Registered Office Milton House, 33a Milton Road, Hampton, Middlesex TW12 2LL.
More than 56 days Nil Deposit Only Deposit Only56-43 days £20 Monies paid + £20 50% of holiday cost42-31 days £30 Monies paid + £30 75% of holiday cost30–0 days £50 Monies paid + £50 100% of holiday cost
IF WE MAKE A MAJORCHANGE TO YOUR HOLIDAY
Amount you willreceive from us
IF WE CANCELYOUR HOLIDAY
Amount you willreceive from us
IF YOU CANCELYOUR HOLIDAY
MAXIMUM amount ofcancellation charge*
Period before departurewithin which notice ofCancellation or majorchange is received byus or notified to you
Best Tour Operator 2014as voted by AITO Independent Travel Agents
FE 4-PAGE COVER 2015 - 2nd draft_Layout 1 13/08/2014 20:06 Page 2
INTRODUCTION
4 About Inspired by Asia
5 Using the brochure
6 Map of the Far East
7 Your choice of Airlines
8 THAILAND
11 About Thailand
12 Getting married in Thailand
13 Eastern and Oriental Express train
14 Bangkok
17 Beyond Bangkok
18 Chiang Mai & Northern Thailand
20 Best of Northern Thailand Tour
22 The Golden Triangle
24 Hua Hin
28 Koh Samui
32 Phuket
38 Khao Lak
42 Khao Sok National Park
46 Krabi & Phi Phi
50 Koh Phangan
51 Koh Samet
52 Koh Racha
53 Koh Lanta
54 Koh Yao Noi
56 MALAYSIA
59 About Malaysia
60 Kuala Lumpur
62 Best of Malaysia Tour
63 Beyond Kuala Lumpur
64 Penang
66 Langkawi
70 Pangkor
71 East Coast Malaysia
72 Borneo
75 Best of Borneo Tour
76 Borneo Tours
78 BALI
81 About Bali
82 Bali
86 Ubud
88 Lombok
89 Best of Bali Tour
90 INDOCHINA
93 About Indochina
94 Best of Indochina Tour
95 Best of Vietnam Tour
96 Best of Vietnam & Cambodia Tour
97 Halong Bay Cruises
98 Mekong Delta
100 Saigon
102 Hanoi
104 Hoi An and Danang
106 Islands of Vietnam
108 Angkor Wat
110 BURMA
113 About Burma
114 Highlights of Burma Tour
115 Best of Burma Tour
116 Burma Cruises
118 CHINA
121 About China
122 Highlights of China Tour
123 Best of China Tour
124 Hong Kong
126 SINGAPORE
128 JAPAN
129 Best of Japan Tour
130 Visa Requirements
131 Booking Conditions
CONTENTS
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4 inspiredbyasia.co.uk
INSPIRED BY ASIA
When it comes to choosing and planning your Far East holiday, you need to deal with people whoknow the destination inside out. At Inspired by Asia we have the in-depth expertise that makes allthe difference. Our team has travelled extensively throughout the region to ensure you can receivefirst-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 are real experts in Far East holidays
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 AviationAuthority under ATOL 2949, and for holidays which do not include air travel, your financial protection isadministered by ABTA number Y1862/V8887.
Your Financial ProtectionWhen 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 tocontact if things go wrong.
Our 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 togo, 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 tohelp you out with ideas and inspiration - then we’ll be happy to oblige.
We can tailor-make your holiday exactly to suit you
Our 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 mindto know that we’ll be rapidly contactable, via our local representative or via your travel agent, to put things right.
We’ll offer support throughout your holiday
All of our holidays begin and end with a flight. So it’s vital that all the arrangements work and that the airlinematches or exceeds your expectations. Inspired by Asia only work with quality scheduled airlines with aproven record in customer satisfaction and the flexibility to cope with complex or unusual itineraries.
We can organise all your flights
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5INSPIRED BY ASIA
USING YOUR INSPIRED BY ASIA BROCHURE
Hotel ratingsEach 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 renovationsEvery 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 offersThe 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 requestsIf 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 healthMost 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 honeymoonsWe 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.
FlightsPrices 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 transfersWhere 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.
InsuranceIt 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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6 inspiredbyasia.co.uk
T H A I L A N D
Bangkok
SOUTH
CHINA
SEA
C A M B O D I A V I E T N A M
L A O SB U R M A
C H I N A
B O R N E O
SARAWAK
SABAHBRUNEI
INDONESIA
M A L AY S I A
GULFOF
THAILAND
ANDAMAN
SEA
EAST
CHINA
SEA
SOUTH
KOREA
NORTH
KOREA
Chiang Mai
Chiang Rai
Siem Reap
Phnom Penh
Saigon
Nha Trang
Hue
HanoiLuang Prabang
Hong Kong
Beijing
Guilin
Shanghai
Kuala Lumpur
Singapore
Phuket
Koh Samui
Langkawi
Penang
Jakarta
BALI
Kuching
Kota Kinabalu
PACIFIC
OCEAN
Hoi An
J A PA NTokyo
Kyoto
SEA OF
JAPAN
Seoul
Yangon
Ngapali
Bagan
Mandalay
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7INSPIRED BY ASIA
YOUR CHOICE OF AIRLINES
Vietnam Airlines offer non-stop flights from London Gatwick 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 on a 777-200ER aircraft
configured with Economy, Economy Deluxe
and Business Class.
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 non-stop flights 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.
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.
Celebrating over 50 years of service, Thai Airways International operates
twice daily direct services from London to Bangkok, with convenient
connections from Bangkok to over 70 destinations worldwide - including
over 10 in Thailand. Last year the airlines UK operation was further
enhanced by the introduction of the fully
refurbished 747N aircraft.
Award-winning Emirates is one of the fastest growing
airlines in the world. Emirates operates 16 daily flights
from 6 UK airports; Heathrow, 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.
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8
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THAILAND
9
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10 THAILAND inspiredbyasia.co.uk
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Thailand 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.
THAILAND 11
Getting thereThere are over 30 direct flights weekly fromthe UK to Thailand, including Thai Airways,EVA Air and Qantas Airways. There are alsomany indirect flights via Dubai, Abu Dhabi andSingapore with airlines such as Emirates,Etihad Airways and Singapore Airlines. Theflying time is generally around 12 hours.
Guide to the countryAlmost all visitors will include a stop inBangkok, at the start or end of their Thailandholiday, and for good reason. Bangkok is anexciting city of bustling streets and markets,historic sights such as the Grand Palace, chicbars and restaurants and boat trips on theChao Phraya River. Five hundred miles to thenorth lies Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai and thebeautiful mountain scenery of NorthernThailand, linked with so much history.The sandy beaches of Pattaya and Hua Hincontinue to increase in popularity, as roadlinks with Bangkok improve making themeasier to reach. The islands of Thailand havealways been popular, with dramatic views andgreat beaches. Choose from a superb range of islands, fromestablished ones such as Phuket and Koh Samui to some newlydiscovered paradises such as Koh Phangan. Krabi features the rockyoutcrop scenery seen in so many films, and the quiet but tranquilKhao Lak, just north of Phuket continues to delight visitors.
When to goMost visitors arrive during Thailand’s dryseason, from November through February.The weather during this period ispleasantly warm and sunny, though airlineand hotel prices reflect this and are higherthan at other times of the year. April andMay are usually the hottest months(though Thailand is never cold at any timeduring the year) when temperatures willbe in the low to mid 30°C. May to Octoberis generally considered to be low seasonas rainfall is high, though there is alwayssunshine between the downpours. Bear inmind that Thailand’s two most popularresorts, Phuket and Koh Samui, havediffering rainy seasons. The best time togo to Phuket (in the west) is fromNovember to March, while Koh Samui (inthe Gulf of Thailand), is at its best duringJune to September.
Important to noteBritish passport holders don’t need a visaunless staying for more than 30 days and
the passport has at least six months validity. Thailand is 7 hoursahead of GMT. The currency is Thai Baht. Vaccinations are only arequirement if you are travelling close to the border of Burma, or ifyou are exploring deep into the jungle. For full details of vaccinationrequirements contact your doctor.
Chiang Mai
Koh Samui
Phuket
BANGKOK
★
T H A I L A N D
THAILAND AVERAGE MONTHLY TEMPERATURES AND RAINFALL (Temperatures in °Centigrade, Rainfall in millimetres)
Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
°C R °C R °C R °C R °C R °C R °C R °C R °C R °C R °C R °C RBangkok 26 11 28 28 29 31 30 72 30 189 29 152 29 158 28 188 28 320 28 231 27 57 26 9
Chiang Mai 21 8 23 6 26 15 29 45 29 153 28 136 27 167 27 227 27 251 26 132 24 44 22 15Koh Samui 24 163 25 37 25 50 28 88 27 151 27 76 27 126 27 103 26 102 26 228 26 432 25 227
Phuket 27 36 28 38 29 74 29 127 28 297 28 264 28 216 28 244 28 328 28 315 27 193 27 79Hua Hin 26 4 27 14 28 16 30 26 30 118 30 71 29 104 29 81 28 82 28 201 27 202 25 7
Koh Samet 32 14 33 34 34 42 35 67 34 148 33 140 32 137 32 109 32 229 32 145 32 32 31 5
INSPIRED BY ASIA
Chiang Rai
Pattaya
Koh Samet
Cha-amHua Hin
Krabi
Phi Phi
GULFOF
THAILANDANDAMAN
SEA
THAILAND
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12 THAILAND
GETTING MARRIED & HONEYMOONS IN THAILAND
inspiredbyasia.co.uk
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 ArrivalYou 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 itineraryYou 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 page 16 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 Required1. 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 £460 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 £1900 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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THAILAND 13INSPIRED BY ASIA
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.
4 DAY BANGKOK TO SINGAPOREFrom the excitement of Bangkok to the
elegance of Singapore, take an unforgettable
rail journey through the heart of SE Asia.
Visit colonial George Town and the infamous
River Kwai.
Day 1 Bangkok Check-in at the Hualampong
station to begin your journey on the Eastern &
Oriental Express. Stewards in exquisite Thai
uniforms await to welcome you aboard, their
hands pressed together in a gracious wai
gesture - a promise of the memorable journey
to come. Settle in to your private cabin as you
dress for dinner, then make your way to the
Bar car for cocktails before proceeding to the
Restaurant car to savour the delightful meal
presented by the team of chefs.
Day 2 Kanchanaburi Morning reveals the
tranquil expanse of lush jungles and winding
rivers which set the surrounding scene for the
town of Kanchanaburi. After breakfast
onboard, we will disembark from the train and
set off on an evocative river ride, with an
historian providing information about the
bridge over the Kwai river, and its origins and
role. Visits to a war museum and war cemetery
are also included for those who wish to do so.
Depart Kanchanaburi and lunch is served
onboard soon after, while the train continues
on the journey southwards. Spend a relaxing
day at leisure, in your cabin catching the
scenery out the window and enjoying
afternoon tea, or in the observation car
watching the colours of the sky change with
the setting of the sun. Dinner is served, and
afterwards, enjoy a digestif in the Bar car. The
train travels south through the night.
Day 3 Padang Besar to Butterworth Start the
day with breakfast in bed served by your
friendly steward, as the Eastern & Oriental
Express heads towards the border town of
Padang Besar, where Thailand meets
Malaysia. Immigration and customs
formalities are conducted here while
passengers remain onboard the train. Pass
fruit crop plantations and rice fields lining the
tracks with limestone hills on the horizon, as
brunch is served before we arrive at the next
destination of Butterworth in northern
Malaysia. Butterworth, on the mainland, is the
port for the crossing to George Town, the
capital of Penang island. The island is the
oldest British settlement with much historical
interest and is home to diverse cultures.
Discover the fascinating facets of this colonial
town on your tour to visit a grand Chinese clan
temple, a Peranakan heritage museum and
the old-world E&O Hotel, passing rows of
quaint and colourful shophouses enroute. We
depart the island and return to the train for you
to prepare for another evening of a sumptuous
dinner and swopping tales while the train
travels under the Malaysian night sky.
Day 4 JB Central to Singapore Watch the
passing scenery of rubber and palm trees
lining the track, and distant hills while you
enjoy breakfast before completing your final
packing. A stop is made at JB central station
in the southernmost Malaysian state before the
E&O crosses the Causeway bridge into
Singapore.
Prices from £1640 per person for a Pullman
Cabin. From £2350 per person for a State
Cabin, from £3410 for a Presidential Cabin.
• We can also offer the 3 day Singapore to
Bangkok itinerary and other rail journeys.
Please call for details.
T H A I L A N D
M A L AY S I A
Singapore
Bangkok
Kuala LumpurPenang
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BANGKOK
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
colourful nightlife.
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 £21
per person.
Bangkok is notorious for traffic
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 first.
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 floating 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 afield 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.
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4
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2
14 THAILAND
Grand Palace
National Gallery
National Museum
Dusit Zoo
King ChulalongkornStatue
Wat Arun
King Taksin Statue
SuanpakkardPalace
Chao Phraya River
B A N G K O K
5
6
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THAILAND 15
TOWER CLUB AT LEBUA
Tower Club at Lebua offers breathtaking views of Bangkok from suites on
the 51st to 59th floors. 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, fitness centre and pool.
Offer Receive up to a 15% discount when booked in advance. Dates vary.
Prices from £76 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
Offer Free breakfast when staying 3 nights or more, 1 Apr - 31 Oct 15.
Prices from £71 per person per night, based on room only.
SHANGRI-LA HOTEL BANGKOK
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.
BANGKOK Hotels
1 2★★★★★★★★★★
MANDARIN ORIENTAL BANGKOK
A haven of calm on the banks of the river, the famous and iconic
Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok is a truly remarkable hotel. Excellently
situated within easy reach of the city’s famous skytrain and just a short
boat ride from the breathtaking Grand Palace. Most of the luxurious 339
rooms enjoy river views, and there are 35 legendary suites. Facilities
include a wide choice of restaurants, bar, spa, gym, 2 pools, tennis and
personal butler service.
Offer Early check-in / late check-out during 1 Apr – 31 Oct 15.
Prices from £125 per person per night, based on room only.
3★★★★★
INSPIRED BY ASIA
Offer Receive up to a 15% discount when booking in advance. Dates vary.
Prices from £67 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
ORIENTAL RESIDENCE BANGKOK
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.
★★★★★4
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16 THAILAND
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. Enjoy the wonderful river frontage with fragrant gardens. Take
the free hotel 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, fitness centre and spa.
Offer Receive up to 15% off early bird. Dates vary.
Prices from £49 per person per night, based on room only.
BANGKOK Hotels
5★★★★★
DUSIT THANI BANGKOK
Ideally located in the heart of Bangkok, the luxurious Dusit Thani sits
opposite Lumpini Park with its broad boulevards and expanse of lakes.
Adjacent to both the sky train and subway system. All of the 517 rooms
and suites feature distinctive Thai inspirations and state-of-the-art
facilities including free WiFi. Guests will enjoy the large outdoor
swimming pool and sundeck, landscaped garden, spa, golf driving
range, fitness centre and a choice of 3 bars and 8 restaurants.
Offer Receive 3 nights for the price of 2 nights 1 Apr - 31 Oct 15.
Prices from £45 per person per night, based on room only.
★★★★★7
BEL-AIRE BANGKOK
The Bel-Aire Bangkok Hotel is a smart contemporary, boutique-style
hotel nestled in a quiet street just off bustling Sukhumvit Road; home to
the city’s best shopping and entertainment districts. It’s just a short walk
to the Skytrain and underground transport system. Offering superb value
for money the rooms are chic, modern and spacious. Facilities include a
restaurant, bar, an outdoor swimming pool and gym. And for something
different, try the hotel’s Thai cooking classes. Free wifi.
Offer Receive 3 nights for the price of 2. 1 Apr - 31 Oct 15.
Prices from £30 per person per night, room only.
★★★★8
inspiredbyasia.co.uk
Offer Free room upgrade. 3 night stays 1 Apr - 31 Oct 15.
Prices from £71 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
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.
★★★★★6
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THAILAND 17
2 DAY LUXURY RICE BARGE CRUISE 2 DAY RIVER KWAI TOUR
BEYOND BANGKOK Tours
Take an enchanting cruise along the historical Chao Phraya
River, cruising between Bangkok and the ancient capital of
Ayuthaya, staying overnight alongside a traditional Buddhist
temple. Once a rice barge, this exotic boat is now a floating,
boutique hotel. Air-conditioned cabin. Includes all meals.
Upstream cruise departs Bangkok every Tues, Thurs & Sat.
Note this cruise is available starting or finishing in Bangkok.
Day 1 Bangkok to Ayuthaya Depart at 1.30pm and cruise up
the Chao Phraya River with spectacular views of the Grand
Palace and Temple of Dawn. Just after sunset the boat docks
by a Thai temple set in a tranquil rural village. A candle-lit
dinner is served on the deck. Overnight in your air-conditioned
cabin which is immaculately appointed with a double bed and
a private western-style bathroom.
Day 2 Ayuthaya to Bangkok After breakfast on board head for
Bang-Pa-In where your English speaking guide will take you to
the Summer Palace. Travel by long tail boat to the ancient
capital of Ayuthaya to visit the archaeological site of this once
glorious capital. After a local lunch return to Bangkok by road.
Prices from £273 per person, based on twin share.
Enjoy the historic sights of the River Kwai region on this two day tour.
The scenery is impressive with jungle-covered hills, spectacular gorges
and beautiful river views. Stay in style in The Float House River Kwai.
Choose from taking this tour as part of a group or on a private basis.
Air-conditioned vehicle. Includes all meals.
Day 1 Bangkok – Kanchanaburi – River Kwai Early morning pick-up
from your Bangkok hotel. Arrive in Kanchanaburi. Visit the Thailand-
Burma Railway Centre Museum, the War Cemetery and the Bridge over
the River Kwai.Take a long tail boat to The Float House River Kwai,
(pictured, below) passing by unspoiled mountainous jungle scenery.
Lunch is served. Take an exciting boat ride upstream to the nearby
ethnic Mon Tribal Village. After dinner a short dance presentation.
Day 2 River Kwai – Bangkok After breakfast travel downstream by boat
before visiting the Hellfire Pass Memorial. Lunch, then an historic ride on
the Death Railway Train, passing lush forest. Continue to Bangkok.
Prices from £182 per person, based on twin share.
INSPIRED BY ASIA
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18 THAILAND
CHIANG MAI & NORTHERN THAILAND
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 significant 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.
Travel Chiang Mai and Chiang
Rai airports are served by
regular scheduled services
from Bangkok with a flying 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
find 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.
C H I A N G M A I
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Wat ChediLuang
Wat Chiang Man
WatPhraSingh
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Night Bazaar
Tourist Office
Municipality Stadium
Old ThaiPublic Library
Museum
Thipanet MarketPolice
Prince KavilaMonument
ThaiTribalCrafts
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THAILAND 19
CHIANG MAI Hotels
RACHAMANKHA
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 Earlybird discounts apply. Offer dates vary, call for details.
Prices from £63 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
Offer Earlybird discounts apply. Offer dates vary, call for details.
Prices from £70 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
ANANTARA CHIANG MAI RESORT & SPA
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, fitness centre, yoga/aerobics rooms and a spa. The Anantara
Chiang Mai offers an elegant retreat in the heart of an historical city.
★★★★★★★★★★
KANTARY HILLS HOTEL
This stunning hotel and apartment property, located a short drive from
the centre of Chiang Mai, offers the luxury of a five 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
benefit 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. 16 Apr - 31 Oct 15.
Prices from £35 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
★★★★
1 2
3
TAMARIND VILLAGE CHIANG MAI
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 magnificent 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.
Prices from £45 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
★★★★4
INSPIRED BY ASIA
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THE BEST OF NORTHERN THAILAND 6 Day Private Tour
20 THAILAND
Begin your Northern Thailand
tour in the heart of the Golden
Triangle with a 2 night stay at the
remarkable Anantara Resort. 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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22 THAILAND inspiredbyasia.co.uk
GOLDEN TRIANGLE
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.
Accommodation58 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.
FacilitiesAt 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 CampUnique 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 TourIncludes 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 £344 per person based on twin share.
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HUA HIN
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
fine 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.
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 flights 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 reflects the history of
the town with its impressive
royal waiting room. There is a
fine 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.
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RoyalHua Hin
Golf Course
H U A H I N
G U L F
O F
T H A I L A N D
Hua Hin
BANGKOK
★
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Hua HinTemple
Airport
Station
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THAILAND 25
HUA HIN Hotels
INSPIRED BY ASIA
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 floor,
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 flat 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 five daily meal
presentations, cocktails and concierge service.
Facilities With 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 fit, and there is a children’s
playground. It was the building of the railway
line that spurred the development of the little
fishing 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 detoxifies and re-
mineralises the body and soothes the mind.
Choice of 5 restaurants, a café and bar.
Offer Receive up to 7 nights free, 16 Apr – 31
Oct 15.
Prices from £78 per person per night,
including breakfast daily.
1
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26 THAILAND inspiredbyasia.co.uk
HUA HIN Hotels
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 new Cape Nidhra Hotel has a private pool. Facilities include a fine dining
restaurant, rooftop bar, fitness centre, pool, sauna, spa and water sports.
Offer Receive up to 4 nights free, 16 Apr – 31 Oct 15.
Prices from £68 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
CAPE NIDHRA HOTEL★★★★★
3
ANANTARA HUA HINRESORT & SPA
★★★★★
2
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 infinity-edged
pools, a swim-up bar, spa and five bars and restaurants. Shuttle bus to Hua Hin (10 minute journey. Fee.)
Offer Earlybird discounts available. Offer dates vary, call for details.
Prices from £44 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
IBA 2015 - 2ND DRAFT_Layout 1 13/08/2014 18:18 Page 26
THAILAND 27INSPIRED BY ASIA
HUA HIN Hotels
Inspired by the Summer Palace built by King Rama VI, the InterContinental Hua Hin Resort is perfectly
located on prime beachfront along Petchakasem Road. The resort has 119 rooms, three beachfront
villas with private plunge pools, a range of suites and La Residence Hua Hin. Golfers will want to play a
round at the one of the area's spectacular courses, including Black Mountain and Banyan Golf Course.
Superb beachside pool, fitness centre, a Spa, a Kids Club and a choice of bars and restaurants.
Offer Receive up to 2 nights free. Offer dates vary. Call for details.
Prices from £61 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
INTERCONTINENTALHUA HIN RESORT
★★★★★
4
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 flank a magnificent
swimming pool. 296 rooms offer panoramic views of the sea, gardens or pool. Hotel facilities include
two pools, a children’s pool, a fitness centre, tennis courts, squash courts, sauna, steam room, Jacuzzi
and spa. Excellent choice of bars and restaurants. Shuttle bus to Hua Hin (fee).Free WiFi.
Offer Receive 8 nights for the price of 4, 1 Apr - 31 Oct 15.
Prices from £55 per person per night, based on room only.
DUSIT THANIHUA HIN★★★★★
5
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KOH SAMUI
Travel Koh Samui is well served
with flights from Bangkok, Krabi,
Chiang Mai, Phuket as well as
Singapore and Hong Kong.
The flying time from Bangkok is
60 minutes. We can arrange for
you to be met on arrival and
privately transferred to your
Samui accommodation, from
£17 per person.
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. Lamai, to the
south of Chaweng, attracts
surfers and offers a laid-back
atmosphere. 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. The
secluded west coast beaches
are remote but offer superb
sunset views.
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.
28 THAILAND inspiredbyasia.co.uk
Koh Samui, Thailand’s
third largest island, is
smaller, quieter and less
developed than Phuket.
Life is lived at a gentle
pace and although the
main beach resort of Chaweng now boasts
a wide variety of shops, bars and restaurants,
much of the rest of the island is relatively
quiet and unspoilt and offers beautiful
sandy beaches.
BigBuddha
Chaw
eng
Beac
h
KOH
SAMUI
NamuangWaterfall
LamaiBeach
BophutBeach
Na Thon Town
12
3 45
6
Koh Samui
BANGKOK
★
Airport
IBA 2015 - 2ND DRAFT_Layout 1 13/08/2014 18:19 Page 28
THAILAND 29INSPIRED BY ASIA
KOH SAMUI Hotels
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.
Offer Receive up to 3 nights free. Offer dates vary. Call for details.
Prices from £100 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
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 floating in a beautiful lotus pond. Spa, gym, library, beach bar and two restaurants.
Offer Receive up to a 15% earlybird discount. Call for details.
Prices from £78 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
TONGSAI BAY★★★★★
SALA SAMUIRESORT & SPA
★★★★★
1
2
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KOH SAMUI Hotels
30 THAILAND inspiredbyasia.co.uk
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.
Prices from £49 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
BANDARARESORT & SPA
★★★★
BO PHUTRESORT & SPA
★★★★
3
4
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
definite Thai style with the use of natural materials.
Offer Free room upgrade for 6 nights or more earlybird deal. Dates vary.
Prices from £63 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
IBA 2015 - 2ND DRAFT_Layout 1 13/08/2014 18:19 Page 30
THAILAND 31INSPIRED BY ASIA
KOH SAMUI Hotels
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 fitness centre, library and a kids club.
Offer Receive up to 4 nights free. Offer dates vary, call for details.
Prices from £76 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
MELATIBEACH RESORT & SPA
★★★★★
6
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.
Prices from £62 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
ZAZEN BOUTIQUERESORT & SPA
★★★★★
5
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PHUKET
Travel There are scheduled
flights 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 five of
Phuket’s most sophisticated
hotels. Kata beach is popular
with families. The secluded bay
and fishing 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.
32 THAILAND inspiredbyasia.co.uk
Set just off Thailand’s
south-west coast, Phuket
is the country’s largest
island, and blessed with
magnificent coves and
bays, palm-fringed
beaches and numerous sparkling islands.
Phuket is also the gateway to numerous
island resorts dotted throughout the
Andaman Sea.
BANGKOK ★
Phuket
12
34
5
6
7 PhuketTown
Airport
PatongBeach
KaronBeach
Bang TaoBeach
PHUKET
Khao Lak
9108
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THAILAND 33INSPIRED BY ASIA
PHUKET Hotels
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 fitness centres, tennis, games room, library, bars and six restaurants.
Offer Receive up to 7 nights free, 1 Apr – 31 Oct 15.
Prices from £69 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
KATATHANI PHUKETBEACH RESORT
★★★★★
THE SHOREAT KATATHANI
★★★★★
1
2
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 infinity 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, fitness centre, library and free use of all the facilities at its sister resort, Katathani.
Offer Receive up to 5 nights free, 1 Apr - 31 Oct 15.
Prices from £178 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
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PHUKET Hotels
34 THAILAND inspiredbyasia.co.uk
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 first 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.
Offer Receive up to 2 nights free. Offer dates vary. Call for details.
Prices from £42 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
DUSIT THANI LAGUNAPHUKET★★★★★
OUTRIGGER LAGUNAPHUKET BEACH RESORT
★★★★★
3
4
The resort occupies a prime position on the famed Bang Tao beach where white sand and calm, clear waters
combine to create an idyllic tropical setting. The absolute beachfront location provides easy access to beach
activities for families and couples alike. Rooms offer lagoon or sea views. Facilities include a swimming pool,
a kids’ pool, kids’ club, fitness centre, tennis court, scuba diving, spa and a choice of bars and restaurants.
Offer Receive up to 2 nights free. Offer dates vary. Call for details.
Prices from £55 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
IBA 2015 - 2ND DRAFT_Layout 1 13/08/2014 18:19 Page 34
THAILAND 35INSPIRED BY ASIA
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 reflects 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, a spa, watersports, fitness room, tennis, cooking classes, a kids club and a choice of bars
and restaurants.
Offer Receive up to 7 nights free when staying 12 Apr - 31 Oct 15.
Prices from £60 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
INDIGO PEARL★★★★★
TWINPALMS PHUKET★★★★★
5
6
Twinpalms Phuket is a five-star boutique hotel offering a tranquil and secluded escape just metres from
Surin Beach. Contemporary and stylish, this privately-owned resort has a hip restaurant and bar, a
fabulous beach club, an a world-class spa. There are only 97 spacious bedrooms and suites from the
signature Lagoon rooms that are right on the water to Deluxe and Grand Deluxe rooms. All of the rooms
and suites are luxuriously appointed in a minimalist design and all are within steps from the pool.
Offer Receive a 10% earlybird discount. Call for details.
Prices from £53 per person per night including breakfast daily.
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36 THAILAND inspiredbyasia.co.uk
PHUKET Hotels
CENTARA GRAND BEACHRESORT PHUKET
★★★★★
7
The Centara Grand Beach Resort Phuket is located at the most secluded area of Karon Beach, with
direct beach access and backing onto lush green hills. The architectural design of the resort takes its
inspiration from the classical Sino-Portuguese style that was brought to Phuket in the nineteenth
century, and the property is set in a landscaped water park with a lazy river and four swimming pools.
Choice of bars and restaurants.
Offer Receive up to 7 nights free. Dates vary call for details.
Prices from £91 per person per night including breakfast daily.
The Vijitt Resort Phuket is an all villa-style resort set in 18 acres facing a 250 metre sandy beach in Rawai
in south-east Phuket, with stunning views across Chalong Bay. Guests seeking something a little
different will appreciate this resort. The 92 stand-alone villas vary in style and size, some with private
pools (private pool villa pictured) and all within a beautifully landscaped natural setting. Facilities
include an infinity pool, a kids’ pool, spa, gym, a kids’ club and non-motorised watersports. Two
restaurants with terraces and sea views.
Offer Receive up to a 25% earlybird discount. Dates vary, call for details.
Prices from £66 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
THE VIJITT RESORT★★★★★
8
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THAILAND 37INSPIRED BY ASIA
PHUKET Hotels
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, fitness centre, five restaurants and five bars and regular trips to nearby Coral Island.
Offer Receive up to 10 nights free. Offer dates vary. Call for details.
Prices from £36 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
CAPE PANWAHOTEL★★★★
9
The Kantary Bay Hotel is a charming seafront property a 15 minute drive from Phuket Town.
Accommodation includes spacious, fully furnished studio, one and two-bedroom suites. Each room type
has a living room, kitchenette and separate sleeping area. Facilities include a fitness room, swimming
pools, scenic gardens and reading lounges. Guests of Kantary Bay can use the facilities and beach of
the sister hotel, The Cape Panwa, a 2 minute free shuttle bus ride away, operating every 15 minutes.
Offer Receive up to 6 nights free when staying 16 Apr - 31 Oct 15.
Prices from £20 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
KANTARY BAYHOTEL★★★★
10
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38 THAILAND inspiredbyasia.co.uk
KHAO LAK
Travel Khao Lak is accessed
with flights via Phuket
Airport, located one hour
south of Khao Lak. Inspired
by Asia can arrange for you
to be met on 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.
BANGKOK ★
Phuket
Khao Lak
IBA 2015 - 2ND DRAFT_Layout 1 13/08/2014 18:19 Page 38
THAILAND 39INSPIRED BY ASIA
KHAO LAK hotels
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 facilitiesAll 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 a 50% discount when staying 2
nights or more. 16 Apr – 31 Oct 15.
Prices from £134 per person per night,
including breakfast daily.
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40 THAILAND inspiredbyasia.co.uk
KHAO LAK hotels
The Leaf on The Sands is located close to its sister resort, The Sands By Katathani and just a 5 minute
walk to beautiful Nang Thong beach. This budget hotel offers excellent value for money. Located in the
centre of Khao Lak, guests can enjoy a wide choice of bars and restaurants, all within walking distance
of the hotel. Set in low-rise buildings rooms which face the pool or lush gardens. Facilities include a
restaurant, two bars, pools and an outdoor massage pavilion.
Offer Receive a 10% discount when staying 12 nights or more.
Prices from £10 per person per night including breakfast daily.
THE LEAFON THE SANDS
★★★★
THE SANDSBY KATATHANI
★★★★
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.
Offer Receive up to 10 nights free. 1 Apr – 31 Oct 15.
Prices from £38 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
IBA 2015 - 2ND DRAFT_Layout 1 13/08/2014 18:19 Page 40
THAILAND 41INSPIRED BY ASIA
KHAO LAK hotels
Situated on the idyllic shores of Khao Lak in Phang-Nga, the Ramada Khao Lak Resort features a stylish
collection of spacious rooms as well as a stunning beachfront and private pool villas. The resort also
features 2 restaurants serving cuisine from around the world, a spa an infinity pool set right on the
beachfront, a pool bar and fitness centre. The Ramada enjoys a great location with a wide range of bars
and restaurants all within an easy stroll from the hotel.
Offer Receive up to 7 nights free 1 May - 31 Oct 15.
Prices from £42 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
RAMADAKHAO LAK RESORT
★★★★
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.
Offer Receive up to 10 nights free. Offer dates vary. Call for details.
Prices from £44 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
LA FLORARESORT & SPA
★★★★
IBA 2015 - 2ND DRAFT_Layout 1 13/08/2014 18:20 Page 41
42 THAILAND inspiredbyasia.co.uk
KHAO SOK NATIONAL PARK
TravelThe closest airport to both Elephant Hills
Luxury Tented Camp and the Rainforest
Camp at Cheow Larn Lake is Phuket –
approximately a 2.5 transfer (3 hours for the
Rainforest Camp). Elephant Hills is just a 45
minute transfer from the beach resorts at
Khao Lak so many visitors choose to combine
a beach stay here with Elephant Hills. Krabi is
a 3 hour transfer. For Koh Samui transfers we
can arrange a car to/from Surat Thani (212
hours) and ferry from there to/from Samui.
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.
KohSamui
Phuket Krabi
Khao Lak
Elephant HillsMain Camp
RainforestCamp Surat
Thani
Elephant Hills Children’s ProjectThe 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.
IBA 2015 - 2ND DRAFT_Layout 1 13/08/2014 18:20 Page 42
THAILAND 43INSPIRED BY ASIA
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 10 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 Phuket Airport
and transferred to Elephant Hills Luxury Tented Camp. Ideally you should
have a flight arriving into Phuket before 9.30am. 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 and a choice of relaxing by
the lake with a swim or canoe or a guided jungle trek in the rainforest.
After lunch return to Phuket airport (or to other locations) by boat and
road transfer arriving approximately 5pm.
Prices from £340 per person, based on twin share.
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44 THAILAND inspiredbyasia.co.uk
ELEPHANT HILLS TRUCK SAFARI 5 Day Small Group Tour
Includes• Travel in Safari Trucks• Tented camp accommodation• 4 Breakfasts, 5 lunches and 4 dinners• Activities as per the itinerary• Services of an Elephant Hills guide
Day 1 Pick up from your Phuket or Khao Lak
hotel. Mangrove forest exploration by boat and
with self paddle canoes. Visit a remote beach
on an island. Overnight at Elephant Hills camp
site.
Day 2 Visit a waterfall, fresh market and walk
at historical Takuapa old town. Evening
Activities: Dance performances, cooking
demonstrations. Overnight at Elephant Hills
Luxury Tented Camp.
Day 3 Sok River Canoe Safari, Elephant Hills
Elephant Experience (feed and bathe an
elephant). Evening activities: dance
performances, cooking demonstrations.
Overnight at Elephant Hills Luxury Tented
Camp.
Day 4 Lake exploration in a local long-tail boat,
swimming, guided canoe safari and wildlife
spotting. Overnight at the Elephant Hills
Rainforest Camp.
Day 5 Jungle Trekking on foot through South
Thailand’s unique rainforest environment.
Return to Phuket or Khao Lak via Phang Nga,
visiting local Buddhist temples along the way.
Prices from £520 per person, based on twin
share.
Note itinerary may vary due to weather
conditions.
Experience new unique Truck
Safaris and explore the lesser
known parts of Southern
Thailand in air-conditioned and
open-air Safari Trucks. This fully-
escorted tour offers familiar
aspects from the existing
Elephant Hills nature tours such
as the popular Elephant
Experience and overnights in
tented camps, combined with
southern Thai cultural sites, visits
to interesting locations such as
traditional coffee shops and
stunning natural scenery.
Departs every Wednesday.
Maximum group size of 16.
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45
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46 THAILAND inspiredbyasia.co.uk
KRABI and PHI PHI ISLANDS
Travel Krabi is well served with
regular scheduled flights from
Bangkok, with a flying time of
70 minutes. Krabi’s airport is
17 miles from Ao Nang, the
main beach resort. A private
transfer is from £15 per person.
The islands of Phi Phi can be
reached via a flight to either
Phuket or Krabi, then a boat
transfer of 60-75 minutes. We
can arrange for you to be met
on arrival at either airport and
privately transferred to the boat
marina for your boat crossing to
Phi Phi, from £40 per person.
Some hotels offer a private
speedboat as an alternative to
the scheduled ferry service.
This is a much quicker crossing
but also more expensive.
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. A short boat ride from Krabi or
Phuket will transport you to the tropical
paradise that is the islands of Phi Phi with
its spectacular rock formations, white sandy
beaches and excellent snorkelling.
Wat ThamSuaKRABI
Ao Nan
g Beac
h
Reclining Buddha
1
3
2
4
Krabi
Nophara
t Thara
Beach
KlongMuangBeach
PranangBeach
TubkaakBeach
Ton Sai B
each
Khao Klom
Khao Thong
BANGKOK ★
Krabi
Phi Phi
Airport
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THAILAND 47INSPIRED BY ASIA
KRABI Hotels
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.
Prices from £122 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
RAYAVADEE★★★★★
THE TUBKAAK KRABIBOUTIQUE RESORT
★★★★★
1
2
Nestled on the white sand of Tubkaak Beach, with superb views towards limestone peaks. Guests
will not be surrounded by high-rise hotels or crowds, just calm tranquillity in a beautiful natural setting.
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. The latest collection of private pool villas offer added luxuries and large
private pools. Facilities include a bar, restaurant, spa, sauna, swimming pool, jacuzzi, WiFi, and gym.
Offer Receive up to 2 nights free. 16 Apr – 31 Oct 15.
Prices from £69 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
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48 THAILAND inspiredbyasia.co.uk
KRABI Hotels
AMARI VOGUEKRABI★★★★★
4
Situated on the sandy white shores of Tub Kaek Beach beside the tranquil blue of the Andaman Sea,
Amari Vogue is an intimate 57-room resort with elegant Lanna-inspired architecture in a beautiful
garden setting. Set on a hillside sloping gently towards the idyllic beach, the Amari Vogue offers a
perfect beach-side getaway. All rooms are spacious and feature a private balcony. Facilities include two
restaurants, a lounge, a poolside cafe, a pool, kids’ pool, spa and fitness room.
Offer Receive up to 3 nights free 16 Apr – 31 Oct 15..
Prices from £64 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
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.
Offer Receive up to 8 nights free. Offer dates vary. Call for details.
Prices from £78 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
CENTARA GRANDBEACH RESORT & VILLAS
★★★★★
3
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THAILAND 49INSPIRED BY ASIA
PHI PHI ISLANDS
The Outrigger Phi Phi Island Resort & Spa is spectacularly located on an 800 metre private sandy
beach with low-rise accommodation set amidst a coconut plantation. Twelve hillside pool villas and 144
bungalows include a large balcony and sun lounge chairs with Beachfront Junior Suites offering full sea
views. Facilities include a pool, a kids’ pool, spa, fitness room, tennis, a five-star PADI dive centre,
watersports and a choice of four bars and four restaurants.
Offer Receive up to 2 nights free 1 May - 31 Oct 15.
Prices from £63 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
OUTRIGGER PHI PHI ISLANDRESORT & SPA
★★★★★
ZEAVOLA RESORT★★★★★
Zeavola Resort is a romantic rustic resort, located on the northern tip of Koh Phi Phi, nestled on a prime
stretch of soft white sand. An hour by speed boat from Phuket or Krabi, Zeavola Resort is the perfect
getaway to relax, recharge and reinvigorate. Activities and facilities include exploring the nearby pristine
reefs with a PADI accredited dive centre, a strong emphasis on nature at Zeavola Spa or sampling some
of Thailand’s finest cuisine at a choice of two restaurants.
Offer Receive 3 nights for the price of 2, or 6 for 4. Dates vary, call for details.
Prices from £95 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
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50 THAILAND inspiredbyasia.co.uk
KOH PHANGAN
ANANTARA RASANANDA KOH PHANGAN VILLA RESORT & SPA
★★★★★
Anantara Rasananda Villa Resort & Spa is an
oasis of villas and suites sprawled over 200
metres of sea-view frontage, along the pristine
white sands on Tong Nai Pan Noi Beach in north-
east Koh Phangan. Just 35 minutes away from
Koh Samui by speedboat.
Accommodation64 Villas and Suites all with individual pool and
terrace or balcony. Garden Suites are surrounded
by high walls and an age old wooden gate
entrance; and offer 130 sq metres of indoor and
outdoor living space. The Pool Suites are located
on the 2nd floor and offer 100 sq metres of living
space. The Thai Villa is a two-storey building with
an open-air living space on the ground floor
complete with giant hammock and pool, with a
private bedroom on the higher level. Designed for
utmost privacy and romance the 140 sq metre
Lagoon Pool Villa stands alone with its own large
terrace and sala with retractable doors.
Activities and FacilitiesActivities include scuba diving, snorkelling,
kayaking, jungle trekking, cultural and nature
experience trips around the island. There is also a
boutique gym equipped with the latest
equipment. The library offers a place to relax and
internet access should you have the need to stay
in touch. Try your hand at the Thai cooking
classes. The expansive main swimming pool
features bubble beds and massage jets and the
spa includes a massage service amongst an array
of treatments on offer. Yoga classes are also
available. The signature restaurant features both
al fresco and covered seaside dining or
alternatively you may opt for private beach or in-
villa dining. Enjoy a drink at the hip glass swim-up
pool bar or try Koh Phangan’s only wine cellar
with a sea view.
Offer Receive up to a 15% discount earlybird
deal. Dates vary. Call for details.
Prices from £78 per person per night, including
breakfast daily.
Located in the Gulf
of Thailand, close to
Koh Samui, the island
of Koh Phangan is a
perfect getaway retreat.
Visitors can enjoy its
pristine and deserted
beaches, and seek out
idyllic coves. It is close
to the Marine National
Park where there are
some superb
diving and snorkelling
opportunities.
How to get there There are regular flights
from Bangkok to Koh Samui,
a journey time of an hour.
We can arrange for you to be
met on arrival at Koh Samui
Airport and transferred to the
pier for a 35-minute
speedboat crossing to Koh
Phangan. The Resort staff
will greet you on arrival, and
transfer you to the lobby for
check-in. From £60 per
person, based on a shared
scheduled speedboat. For a
private speedboat price on
request.
BANGKOK★
Koh Phangan
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THAILAND 51INSPIRED BY ASIA
KOH SAMET
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.
AccommodationAll 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.
Activities and facilitiesWatersports 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.
Offer Receive up to 4 nights free. Offer dates
vary. Call for details.
Prices from £109 per person per night, including
breakfast daily.
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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52 THAILAND inspiredbyasia.co.uk
KOH RACHA
THE RACHA
★★★★★
Located on Koh Racha is The Racha. Set on
beautiful Batok Beach it offers luxurious villas and
wonderful sea views. The Racha, a deluxe island
hideaway is set on a pristine beach on Racha
Island, only 12 miles south of Phuket and just a
35 minute speed boat ride from Phuket’s Chalong
Bay. The Island has long been known for its
natural beauty, excellent corals and marine life.
The resort features 85 luxurious villas.
AccommodationThe Zen-like villas, the ultimate in luxury and
facilities, vary from villas laid out in pairs,
detached villas to the two-storey pool villa. All
have private sun decks or terraces, indoor and
outdoor showers, some with private pools.
Activities and facilitiesEnjoy a choice of activities including snorkelling,
diving (PADI dive centre), canoeing, ATV, nature
walks, biking and tennis. Facilities include a spa,
pool and a choice of bars and restaurants. As the
band plays in the Ice Bar, you sip an aperitif,
anticipating your appetite which is satisfied at
lunch or dinner at the Earth Café, The Fire Grill by
the pool, the Sunset Beach Restaurant or ‘a deux’
on your private terrace. The Anumba Spa features
private treatment rooms where guests can enjoy a
pampering body massage and flower baths.
Offer Receive up to 4 nights free. Offer dates
vary. Call for details. Free roundtrip transfers
when staying 5 nights or more.
Prices from £100 per person per night, including
breakfast daily.
Koh Racha is made up
of two islands close
enough to see from the
south end of Phuket.
These islands are
surrounded by
remarkably clear water
and close to offshore
reefs, which makes it a
popular destination for
diving and snorkelling.
How to get there Arriving any time before
3.30pm at Phuket Airport,
you’ll be met and transferred
to Chalong in the south of
Phuket. There is a scheduled
boat service from Chalong to
Koh Racha operating three
times a day in each
direction. From £80 per
person roundtrip Airport-
Island-Airport. A private
speedboat price is available
on request.
BANGKOK★
Koh Racha
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THAILAND 53INSPIRED BY ASIA
KOH LANTA
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.
AccommodationAll 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.
Activities and facilitiesAvailable 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.
Prices from £65 per person per night, including
breakfast daily.
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 by
and transferred by shared,
airconditioned 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
PIMALAI RESORT AND SPA
★★★★★
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54 THAILAND inspiredbyasia.co.uk
KOH YAO NOI
THE PARADISE KOH YAO BOUTIQUE BEACH RESORT & SPA
★★★★★
The Paradise Koh Yao Boutique Beach Resort is
a collection of private villas and studios located
adjacent to 400 metres of beach, providing year
round natural luxury. Dramatic limestone rock
formations and steep cliffs provide a spectacular
setting for this quiet, back-to-nature resort.
AccommodationSuperior studios offer stunning views from the
hillside overlooking the resort and provide plenty
of space and an open sala living area. These
studios are located in single or two-storey
contemporary tropical-style buildings. Jacuzzi
Studios include a private semi-outdoor jacuzzi,
while the Plunge Pool Deluxe Studio rooms
(pictured, above) have the addition of a private
sundeck. The Pool Villas include a private pool
and a wonderful location with the sandy beach
just steps away.
Activities and facilitiesThere is a brand new dive base on Koh Yao Island
with excellent new equipment and dive masters
with over 20 years experience. Day trips can be
arranged to see the incredible underwater world
of Phang Nga Bay. PADI Dive courses can be pre-
arranged. There is a Rock Climbing School
offering an introductory course or, for experienced
climbers there is a range of over 50 climbs. From
the resort beach there is canoeing, snorkelling
and trekking and boat trips to the nearby deserted
islands for guided snorkelling opportunities.
Fishing tours are available. Try elephant back
riding on a trip through the jungle! For mountain
bikers there are numerous trails throughout the
island.
Resort facilities include an infinity-edged pool with
Jacuzzi and bubble bed, a kid’s pool and a spa.
The main restaurant is nestled between shady
trees, right on the beach with a covered area and
additional seating on an open beach. The Al
Fresco restaurant is also on the beach, under the
shade of palm trees. The resort features Yoga and
Wellbeing; a holistic approach to healthier living.
Offer Receive up to 7 nights free. Offer dates vary.
Call for details.
Prices from £61 per person per night, including
breakfast daily.
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 Both Paradise Koh Yao
Boutique Beach Resort and
The Six Senses Yao Noi are
reached from Phuket airport.
You’ll be met on arrival and
transferred to a marina for a
45 minute crossing (Six
Senses) and 60 minute
crossing (Paradise). Both
resorts will meet their guests
off the boat and escort them
to check-in.
BANGKOK★
Koh Yao
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THAILAND 55INSPIRED BY ASIA
KOH YAO NOI
SIX SENSES YAO NOI
★★★★★
Located on a small island in awesome Phang
Nha Bay, Six Senses Yao Noi gives a sense of
privacy and adventure. Natural vegetation and
lush landscaping provides privacy between the
elevated villas. Natural materials used in the
modern architecture, together with a beautiful
island setting and excellent personal service,
support the Six Senses philosophy of creating
exceptional experiences.
AccommodationSea View villas offer glorious views over Phang
Nga Bay, while Mountain View villas face a
classic plantation of rubber trees. Hideaway
Pool Villas offer very generous personal space
plus a private infinity-edged pool with a double
spa sala on the pool deck for private
treatments. Ocean pool Villas offer Glorious
views out to Phang Nga Bay, with private
infinity-edged pool and terrace. The Ocean
Deluxe Pool Villas boast amazing sea views, a
private pool and split-level living. The Ocean
Panorama Pool Villa offers 180 degree views
while the Beachfront Pool Villa includes a
staircase leading directly to the beach.
Activities and facilitiesAn excellent range of facilities with
watersports, snorkelling, PADI certified dive
excursions, kayaking, rock climbing, nature
bike trails, secluded barbecue trips, yachting
and kids’ activities. Facilities include an
impressive infinity pool, six senses spa, fitness
centre, bar and choice of restaurants.
Offer Receive up to 3 nights free. Offer dates
vary. Call for details.
Prices from £194 per person per night
including breakfast daily.
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MALAYSIA
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58 MALAYSIA inspiredbyasia.co.uk
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MALAYSIA AVERAGE MONTHLY TEMPERATURES AND RAINFALL (Temperatures in °Centigrade, Rainfall in millimetres)
Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
°C R °C R °C R °C R °C R °C R °C R °C R °C R °C R °C R °C RKuala Lumpur 25 162 27 170 27 231 27 276 27 196 27 126 27 128 27 140 26 194 26 266 26 280 26 227
Penang 26 35 28 31 27 38 29 162 27 347 27 212 28 263 28 263 27 419 27 304 27 206 27 51Langkawi 28 50 29 47 29 91 29 159 28 256 28 218 27 233 28 249 27 339 27 344 28 215 29 94Pangkor 26 160 27 96 27 123 27 158 27 124 27 78 26 97 26 129 26 154 26 231 26 210 26 188
East Coast 25 214 26 112 23 133 27 124 28 112 27 111 27 119 27 148 27 170 27 307 26 664 25 556Borneo 30 254 31 203 31 279 31 279 32 279 31 254 30 203 31 229 31 229 31 279 30 305 30 279
Malaysia 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.
MALAYSIA
MALAYSIA 59
Getting thereThe National carrier, MalaysianAirlines flies direct from the UKto Malaysia. In addition there areseveral airlines offering in-directflights to Kuala Lumpur viaDubai (Emirates), Singapore(Singapore Airlines) and AbuDhabi (Etihad Airways) amongstothers. The flying time isgenerally around 13 hours.
Guide to the countryStart your Malaysia holiday in thecapital, Kuala Lumpur. Thisvibrant city offers a contrast inarchitectural styles with theimpressive Petronas Towers standing alongside colonial buildings. Thebeach resorts of Penang and Langkawi in the west are well-known,offering a good choice of hotels, set on sandy beaches.To the east there are the islands of Redang and Tioman, offeringsuperb diving and snorkelling. The east coast of the mainlandincludes Kuala Terengganu, a region that features picturesquevillages where religion and culture are very much a part of everydaylife. Malaysian Borneo is a must-see, with its beaches, mountains(Mt.Kinabalu is one of the highest mountains in SE Asia) but above alla wide range of nature, birds and wildlife. Here you can get up closeto Orang-utans in Sabah. A great way to experience the country is on aprivate tour. This allows you to explore the lesser-known locations suchas historic Malacca and the tea-growing, colonial hill towns andvillages of the Cameron Highlands.
When to goMalaysia has a tropicalclimate and offers warmtemperatures throughoutthe year, with an averagemonthly temperatureranging between 23°Cand 32°C. There is aclear east-west split inthe weather. The westcoast islands of Penang,Langkawi and Pangkorare at their best weather-wise during December toApril, with the east coastenjoying drier weather
from April to October. The rainy season for the west is April to October,while the east receives stormy monsoon weather during Novemberand December. The best time to visit Borneo is March to October, withthe wettest months being November to February. The capital, KualaLumpur remains warm year round but has less rainfall during June toAugust.
Important to noteBritish passport holders don’t need a visa unless they are staying formore than 60 days and the passport has at least six months validityremaining. Malaysia is eight hours ahead of GMT. The currency isMalaysian Ringitt. Vaccinations are not normally required unless youare venturing deep into the jungles of Borneo. For full details ofvaccination requirements contact your doctor.
KUALA LUMPUR★
MALAY S I A
INSPIRED BY ASIA
Langkawi
Penang
Pangkor
Tioman
Kota Kinabalu
SARAWAK
SABAH
Kuching
BORN EOINDONESIA
IBA 2015 - 2ND DRAFT_Layout 1 13/08/2014 18:22 Page 59
60 MALAYSIA
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 £22 per person. Getting
around the city is easy; taxis
are a very reasonable option.
The new 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 afield 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.
inspiredbyasia.co.uk
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.
1
3
2
K U A L A L U M P U R
Twin Towers
Jade Museum
Information
KL Towers
Bus & Taxi Stand
KLCCRecreation Park
Bus Station
CentralMarket
4
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MALAYSIA 61
THE MAJESTIC 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 free WIFI, two pools, gym, spa,
orchid conservatory, bespoke tailor, old-fashioned barber and reading
room. Choice of bars and restaurants.
Offer Receive a 20% reduction when staying on a Fri/Sat/Sun night.
Prices from £64 per person per night, based on room only.
Offer Free breakfast when staying 2 nights. Dates vary. Call for details.
Prices from £62 per person per night, based on room only.
SHANGRI-LA HOTEL KUALA LUMPUR
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 floors 20 -
23 are available with a supplement and inclusive of club acess. Free
WiFi in the guestrooms, restaurants and public areas. Other hotel
facilities include an outdoor pool, a kids' pool, sauna, steam room,
jacuzzi, fitness centre, café, poolside bar and a choice of restaurants.
KUALA LUMPUR Hotels
★★★★★★★★★★
PARKROYAL SERVICED SUITES
Choose from 287 well-appointed studios and one or two-bedroom
apartments with modern design. Each suite is stylish and spacious, with
contemporary furniture and fittings to ensure maximum comfort.
Centrally located in the Golden Triangle area within walking distance to
restaurants and the sights of KL, this property is ideal for travellers and
families who need a spacious apartment in Kuala Lumpur for a few days.
Rooftop outdoor pool, jacuzzi and fitness centre.
Offer Receive a 10% discount when staying 5 nights or more. Year round.
Prices from £53 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
★★★★★
INSPIRED BY ASIA
1 2
3
TRADERS HOTEL KUALA LUMPUR
This contemporary, new generation hotel located in the heart of Kuala
Lumpur city centre, offers direct access to the shopping and entertainment
hub. All rooms are modern in design and include a choice of Deluxe
rooms with either a city-skyline view or Twin Towers view facing the
imposing Petronas Twin Towers. Facilities include two stylish restaurants,
a rooftop open-air bar showing the perfect KL-by-night vista, a rooftop
swimming pool with sundeck, steam, sauna rooms, and free wifi.
Offer Free club benefits when staying 2 nights Twin Towers Deluxe.
Prices from £55 per person per night including breakfast daily.
★★★★4
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62 MALAYSIA inspiredbyasia.co.uk
THE BEST OF MALAYSIA IN STYLE 12 Day Private Tour
Experience the best of Malaysia on
this 12 day itinerary. Using entirely
the five 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 the East
Coast. Departs daily.
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 The 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 80). On your final day
return to KL Airport via the speedboat and a 3
hour private car transfer.
OR Tanjong Jara Resort Head east to the
beautiful beach resort of Tanjong Jara Resort
(page 73) just south of Dungun on Malaysia’s
east coast (5 hours). On your final day a
transfer will be provided for a 1 hour journey to
Kuala Terengganu Airport.
From here Inspired by Asia can arrange your
onwards flights (not included).
Prices from £1249 per person, based on twin
share.
CameronHighlands
Malacca
KUALALUMPUR
★
MALAY S I A
S T RA I T SO F
MALACCA
SOU THCH I NAS EA
Pangkor
KualaTerengganu
The Majestic Malacca
IBA 2015 - 2ND DRAFT_Layout 1 13/08/2014 18:22 Page 62
MALAYSIA 63INSPIRED BY ASIA
THE MAJESTIC MALACCA
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.
Prices from £52 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
BEYOND KUALA LUMPUR
★★★★★
THE CAMERON HIGHLANDS RESORT
The Cameron Highlands Resort is a tranquil 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.
Prices from £52 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
★★★★★
3 DAY TAMAN NEGARA
NATIONAL PARK TOUR
Price includes• Chalet accommodation at 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 NegaraPick up from your KL 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. After dinner join a night jungle
walk.
Day 2 Taman NegaraA 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 LumpurReturn to the city via the boat journey and private car transfer,
arriving back around 5pm.
Prices from £409 per person, based on twin share.
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64 MALAYSIA inspiredbyasia.co.uk
PENANG
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.
1 2
P E N A N G
Penang HillGeorgetown
Snake Farm
Batu Ferringhi
Botanical Garden
Airport
FortCornwallis
Penang Bridge
Kek Lok SiTemple
Travel There are frequent
scheduled flights 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 £12 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 flea 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.
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MALAYSIA 65INSPIRED BY ASIA
PENANG Hotels
Located on Batu Ferringhi, Penang’s finest beach and set amidst tropical gardens facing the sea and
sandy beach, the Golden Sands Resort, part of the renown Shangri-La Group of Hotels, is conveniently
close to the night market. Rooms offer garden or sea views. Facilities include an outdoor pool, a
children’s pool, fitness centre, watersports and an Adventure Zone. Bar and choice of four restaurants.
Offer Receive up to 3 nights free. Offer dates vary, call for details.
Prices from £58 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
GOLDEN SANDS RESORTPENANG ★★★★★
SHANGRI-LA’SRASA SAYANGRESORT & SPA
★★★★★
1
2
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
complimentary Wi-Fi, a Par-3 pitch and putt golf course, two swimming pools, Adventure Zone for
children, luxurious CHI, The Spa, and restaurants and bars offering international and local cuisine.
Offer Receive up to 3 nights free. Offer dates vary, call for details.
Prices from £96 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
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66 MALAYSIA inspiredbyasia.co.uk
LANGKAWI
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.
6
L A N G K AW I
Golf ClubKuah
Gunung Raya
Crocodile Farm
PadangLalang
Gunung MatChincang
Waterfall
Airport
1
4
3
5
2
PulauDayangBunting
PulauTuba
Travel There are regular flights
to Langkawi from Kuala Lumpur,
a flying 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. We can arrange for
you to be met on arrival and
transferred privately to your
hotel from £9 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.
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MALAYSIA 67INSPIRED BY ASIA
LANGKAWI Hotels
The Danna Langkawi is surrounding 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 infinity pool on the island, cafe, fitness centre, kids’ club and spa.
Offer Receive up to 2 nights free. Offer dates vary, call for details.
Prices from £131 per person per night including breakfast daily.
THE DANNALANGKAWI★★★★★
THE DATAI★★★★★
1
2
The Datai 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 Beach villas, all with verandahs which look out to the landscape. Facilities
include 2 pools, golf course, spa, gym, water sports, tennis, library, bar and a choice of 4 restaurants.
Offer Receive up to 3 nights free. Offer dates vary. Call for details.
Prices from £195 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
IBA 2015 - 2ND DRAFT_Layout 1 13/08/2014 18:23 Page 67
68 MALAYSIA inspiredbyasia.co.uk
LANGKAWI Hotels
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 floor-to-ceiling sliding picture windows.
Facilities include a pool, a pool bar, a spa, a wine bar and an excellent beachside restaurant.
Offer Receive a 5% discount when staying 14 nights. Year round.
Prices from £95 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
CASA DEL MAR★★★★
THE ANDAMANLANGKAWI★★★★★
3
4
Located on a magnificent 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 pictured). Facilities include a large freeform swimming pool,
Spa, kids' club, a gym, and a mini library. Activities include non-motorised water sports, guided nature
walks and coral activities. Beachfront bar, lounge and a choice of four restaurants.
Offer Receive up to 4 nights free during 12 Apr - 22 Dec 15.
Prices from £88 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
IBA 2015 - 2ND DRAFT_Layout 1 13/08/2014 18:23 Page 68
MALAYSIA 69INSPIRED BY ASIA
LANGKAWI Hotels
MERITUS PELANGI BEACHRESORT & SPA
★★★★★
5
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 fitness centre, a spa, tennis, squash, a kids’ club and two bars and choice of three restaurants.
Offer Receive up to 4 nights free. Offer dates vary, call for details.
Prices from £88 per person per night, based on room only.
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, fitness centre, non-
motorised watersports and tennis. Room only or all inclusive options at this property.
Offer Receive up to 2 nights free. Dates vary. Call for details.
Prices from £250 per person per night, including all meals, non-alcoholic drinks and transfers.
TANJUNG RHURESORT★★★★★
6
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70 MALAYSIA inspiredbyasia.co.uk
PANGKOR LAUT
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.
AccommodationThe 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.
Activities and facilitiesAccompany 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.
Prices from £94 per person per night, including
breakfast daily.
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.
MALAYSIA
KualaLumpur
Penang
Pangkor
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MALAYSIA 71INSPIRED BY ASIA
EAST COAST MALAYSIA
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.
AccommodationBumbung 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, left)
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 activitiesTanjong 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, when
staying 1 Apr - 12 Oct 15.
Prices from £56 per person per night,
including breakfast daily.
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72 MALAYSIA inspiredbyasia.co.uk
BORNEO
Divided from Peninsula 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.
Kuching
BORN EO
BRUNEI SABAH
Kota Kinabalu
S ARAWAK
Mt Kinabalu
Sepilok
Travel There are no direct
flights to Kota Kinabalu from
the UK, but the airport is well
served with scheduled flights
via Asian hubs, such as Kuala
Lumpur and Singapore. Flying
time from Kuala Lumpur is 212
hours. The airport is five miles
from Kota Kinabalu. We can
arrange for you to be met on
arrival and transferred privately
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. Sipadan has superb
diving. 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-
utans 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.
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MALAYSIA 73INSPIRED BY ASIA
BORNEO Hotels
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 £149 per person per night, including breakfast and boat transfers.
BUNGA RAYAISLAND RESORT
★★★★★
GAYA ISLAND RESORT★★★★★
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 white 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.
Prices from £94 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
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74 MALAYSIA inspiredbyasia.co.uk
BORNEO Hotels
Shangri-La Rasa Ria Resort & Spa faces a 3-kilometre long sweep of pristine, white sandy beach,
backed by forested hills. Uniquely includes a 64-acre conservation nature reserve where guests can
view the twice daily feeding of Orang Utan (small fee). Choose from the Garden Wing or the more
luxurious Ocean Wing accommodation (breakfast included). Facilities include a pool for each wing, kids’
club and pool, an 18-hole golf course, spa, fitness centre, tennis, watersports, bars and restaurants.
Offer Receive up to 2 nights free. Offer dates vary, call for details.
Prices from £66 per person per night, based on room only.
SHANGRI-LARASA RIA RESORT & SPA
★★★★★
SHANGRI-LA’STANJUNG ARURESORT & SPA
★★★★★
With a private beach, views of the coral islands and just five minutes drive from the centre of Kota
Kinabalu and ten minutes drive from the airport, Shangri-La’s Tanjung Aru offers luxury and relaxation in
a great location. Kinabalu seaview rooms offer views of the ocean and Mt Kinabalu while Tanjung Wing
rooms face the ocean. Facilities include an infinity and lap pool, health club, CHI Spa, sauna, jacuzzi,
nine-hole golf course, tennis, bike hire, watersports, bar and restaurants.
Offer Receive 2 nights free. Offer dates vary, call for details.
Prices from £66 per person per night, based on room only.
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MALAYSIA 75INSPIRED BY ASIA
THE BEST OF BORNEO 10 Day Small Group Tour
Experience the best that Borneo
has to offer. Borneo features a
great combination for a
memorable holiday. Spend time
on the superb sandy beaches with
excellent snorkelling and
watersports facilities with the
chance to see Orang Utan up
close at the renown Sepilok Orang
Utan Sanctuary. You may have the
chance to witness the turtles
laying their eggs on Turtle Island.
Stay in luxury at two top Shangri-
La Hotel properties. Departs daily.
Price includes• 2 nights Shangri-La’s Tanjung Aru Resort• 5 nights Shangri-La Rasa Ria Resort & Spa• 3 Day Turtle Island & Orang Utans Tour • Flights Kota Kinabalu-Sandakan-Kota
Kinabalu• Private airport transfers
Day 1 Arrive Borneo You’ll be met on arrival at
Kota Kinabalu Airport and privately transferred
to Shangri-La’s Tanjung Aru for a 2 night stay.
Day 2 Kota Kinabalu Day at leisure.
Day 3 Turtle Island Early morning flight to
Sandakan. Then a one hour boat journey to
Selingan ‘Turtle’ Island. Afternoon is free to
relax with swimming and snorkelling. After
dinner, wait for the rangers call to observe the
turtles laying eggs. Watch as the eggs are
transferred to the Hatchery and if there are
any young turtle hatchlings, an opportunity to
observe the release of the turtles to the sea.
Stay 1 night at the Selingan Island Resort
including all meals. Rooms have en suite
facilities.
Day 4 Sepilok Orangutan Sanctuary andKinabatangan River Boat Tour Here you can
view the feeding of Orang Utans at the free
roaming feeding platform. Then a boat cruise
up to the Lower Kinabatangan River Sanctuary
and lunch at Abai Jungle Restaurant. After
lunch, free to enjoy the nature boardwalk and
wildlife spotting (look for wild Orang Utan,
monkeys and birds). Stay 1 night at the Abai
Jungle Lodge including en suite facilities and all
meals.
Day 5 Return to Kota Kinabalu Early morning
river trip to the Pitas Oxbow Lake before
breakfast. Depart by boat to Sandakan. Visit
the busy market in the heart of Sandakan
before your flight back to Kota Kinabalu. Mid
afternoon private transfer to Shangri-La Rasa
Ria Resort & Spa for a 5 night stay in a Deluxe
Rainforest room on a room only basis.
Days 6-9 Shangri-La Rasa Ria Resort & SpaTime to relax and enjoy the beach, the on-site
Orang Utan Sanctuary and the five star
facilities.
Day 10 Depart Kota Kinabalu Time at leisure
before your private transfer to the airport.
Prices from £1215 per person, based on twin
share.
Kuching
BORN EO
BRUNEI
SABAH
Kota Kinabalu
S ARAWAK
Mt Kinabalu
Sepilok
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76 MALAYSIA inspiredbyasia.co.uk
BORNEO Tours
3 DAY TURTLE ISLAND
AND ORANG UTANS TOUR
Price includes• 1 night at Selingan (Turtle) Island Chalets • 1 night at Abai Jungle Lodge, Sukau• Touring as shown (small group size)• 2 breakfasts, 3 lunches and 2 dinners• Flight Kota Kinabalu-Sandakan roundtrip • English-speaking guide• Air-conditioned vehicles
A 3 day tour that includes a memorable stay on Turtle Island and the
chance to observe turtles laying eggs on the beach. A visit to an Orang
Utan Sanctuary and a jungle river cruise. Departs daily.
Day 1 Turtle Island Early morning departure from your hotel for the short
flight to Sandakan, followed by a boat journey to Turtle Island. Afternoon
free for snorkelling and swimming. After dinner, wait for the rangers call
to observe turtles laying eggs. Transfer the eggs to the hatchery and if
there are young turtle hatchlings, an opportunity to observe the release
of baby turtles to the open sea. Overnight at Selingan Island.
Day 2 Orang Utans and Sukau River Return to Sandakan and visit to the
Sepilok Orang Utan Rehabilitation Centre. Witness the feeding of Orang
Utans at the free roaming platform. Enjoy a one hour boat cruise through
spectacular scenery to the Lower Kinabatangan River Sanctuary for
lunch at Abai Jungle Restaurant. Then cruise up river to Sukau village in
search of primates especially the Endemic Proboscis Monkeys, birds and
other wildlife. Arrive Abai Jungle Lodge. Enjoy a walk along the jungle
boardwalk.
Day 3 Sandakan Morning at Abai Jungle Lodge before returning to
Sandakan. Time to browse the busy market before your flight to Kota
Kinabalu.
Prices from £549 per person, based on twin share.
3 DAY DANUM VALLEY TOUR
Price includes• 2 nights at Borneo Rainforest Lodge • Touring as shown (small group size)• 2 breakfasts, 3 lunches and 2 dinners• Flight Kota Kinabalu-Lahad Datu roundtrip • 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. 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 whole 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.
Prices from £849 per person, based on twin share.
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MALAYSIA 77INSPIRED BY ASIA
BORNEO Hotels and SARAWAK Tour
3 DAY SARAWAK ORANGUTANS TOUR
Fly to Kuching in Sarawak for a short but exciting visit. Includes
the Semenggoh Wildlife Centre; the best place to see semi-wild
orangutans who have been rescued from captivity and trained to
survive in the surrounding forest reserve.
Price includes• 2 nights 4 or 5-star hotel, Kuching, Sarawak• Breakfast daily• Semenggoh Wildlife Centre (orangutans) tour• English-speaking guide• Air-conditioned vehicle• Airport transfers
Day 1 Arrive Kuching Met on arrival and transferred to your
chosen hotel for a 2 night stay. Rest of the day at leisure. 4-star
Grand Margharita Hotel, 5-star Hilton Kuching.
Day 2 Semenggoh Wildlife Centre Transfer to the Wildlife Centre
for a 3 hour trip. The rehabilitated animals roam freely in the rain
forest, and often return to the centre at feeding time. Thanks to
the successful breeding programme at Semenggoh there is a
good possibility of experiencing one of the most heart-warming
sights in Borneo - an orang utan mother with a young baby. The
centre is 30 mins drive from Kuching and another 20 mins on
foot. Along the way, visitors pass by the ethno-botanical gardens,
with their unique collection of rainforest plants. Semenggoh also
has a number of short collections of rain-forest plants. Relax in
the afternoon, or you may wish to pre-book a guided walking tour
of historic Kuching. From £27 pp.
Day 3 Depart Kuching Time at leisure before your transfer to
Kuching airport for your onward flight.
Prices per person 4-star from £99, 5-star from £119, based on
twin share.
SELINGAN ISLAND CHALETS
The Turtle Island Park is a safe haven for the endangered green and
hawksbill turtles. Selingan, the largest of the islands houses the park’s
headquarters, a turtle hatchery and the Selingan Island Chalets.
Accommodation is 25 air-conditioned chalets with en suite facilities. All
rooms are simple but comfortable and include a small fridge and
windows covered with mosquito netting. Meals are served in the resort’s
restaurant. Swim and snorkel on the beach by the resort.
BORNEO RAINFOREST LODGE
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 31 individual high ceiling
chalets include a fan and en-suite bathrooms. 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. All meals included in the Lodge restaurant.
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BALI
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BALI 81INSPIRED BY ASIA
Bali, the ‘Island of the Gods’, is one of 17,000 islands that make up Indonesia.
Lying approximately 10° south of the Equator, it is a country with a rich cultural
tradition offering a myriad of delights for the visitor: golden beaches, lush green
rice terraces, unique arts and crafts, and a friendly and hospitable people.
BALI
Getting thereThere are flights into Bali’s DenpasarAirport from Singapore, Bangkok, HongKong, Kuala Lumpur and Tokyo. There areno direct flights from the UK, so most UKvisitors combine a Bali stay with a citybreak in one of the above transit points.Flying time is approximately 15 hours butvaries according to the transit city.
Guide to the countryThe Indonesia island of Bali offers somesuperb beaches. Nusa Dua is Bali’s primetourist resort and has been landscaped intobeautiful gardens providing the setting for arange of beachfront upmarket hotels. SanurBeach is wide and sandy. Seminyak islocated close to the busy resort of Kuta, butis quiet and sophisticated and offers a goodchoice of restaurants. Jimbaran is muchquieter but with a safe swimming beach andchic restaurants. Ubud, 20 miles inlandfrom 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 alternativeto the beaches and is renowned as a centre for arts and crafts. Therest of the island offers spectacular scenery and is much lessdeveloped for tourism, rewarding visitors with a more authenticBalinese experience. Situated 34 miles to the east of Bali, lies theisland 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 goWith its proximity to theEquator, Bali is hot andgenerally sunny all year round,with temperatures averagingbetween the high 20°C and low30°C. The dry season is May toSeptember, with the monsoonseason from October to April,when short, sharp downpoursmix with sunshine. Februaryand March can be particularlyhot and humid. May, June andJuly are usually considered tobe the best months for aholiday in Bali. Bear in mindthat evenings and nights canbe cool up in the hills of Ubud.
Important to noteA visa is required, issued onarrival at the airport. You willneed to have $US35 in cash
handy for this. Your passport must have at least six months validityremaining. Bali is eight hours ahead of GMT. The currency isIndonesian Rupiah, but you are advised to bring US Dollars withyou. Vaccinations are not essential for visitors to Bali but contactyour doctor for full details. Nyepi Day (21 March 2015) is silenceday – a very important ritual for the Balinese. Note that on this daytravel is not permitted so it is best to avoid arriving, or departing Balion this day.
BALI AVERAGE MONTHLY TEMPERATURES AND RAINFALL (Temperatures in °Centigrade, Rainfall in millimetres)
Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
°C R °C R °C R °C R °C R °C R °C R °C R °C R °C R °C R °C R28 340 28 277 28 197 29 92 28 75 28 68 27 47 27 25 27 48 27 100 28 173 29 299
DENPASAR★
BA L I
LembonganIsland
Nusa Dua
Ubud
Sanur
Kuta
Seminyak
BALI
BORNEO
JAVA
SUMATR
A
INDONES IA
MALAYSIA
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8282 BALI
BALI Hotels
inspiredbyasia.co.uk
KARMA JIMBARAN ★★★★★
Set along one of Bali’s most idyllic stretches of coastline, Karma Jimbaran is a collection of 40 luxury pool
villas offering 1 -6 bedroom options, set on a gently sloping hillside facing the white sand beaches of the
world famous Jimbaran Bay. Karma Jimbaran’s luxury villas are characterised by a series of pavilions
featuring floor to ceiling glass surrounding a central garden courtyard complete with private pool and
verandah. Facilities include a seafood restaurant, spa, kids club and cooking classes.
Offer Receive up to 4 nights free. Dates vary, call for details.
Prices from £150 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
SPA VILLAGE RESORTTEMBOK, BALI
★★★★★
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, or 14 for 12. Year round.
Prices from £92 per person per night including 3 meals per day and a daily spa treatment.
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The Puri Santrian Hotel 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.
Prices from £52 per person per night, based on room only.
PURI SANTRIANBEACH RESORT & SPA
★★★★
BALI Hotels
BALI 83INSPIRED BY ASIA
BALI PAVILIONS★★★★★
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.
Offer Receive 4 nights for the price of 3. Offer dates vary, call for details.
Prices from £71 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
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84 BALI inspiredbyasia.co.uk
BALI Hotels
GRAND HYATT BALI★★★★★
Designed to resemble a Balinese water palace, the Grand Hyatt Bali is a cluster of four ethnic villages
set amidst an inter-linking system of cascading waterfalls and lagoons that meander through 41 acres of
lush tropical gardens, located along a 650-metre beach front of Nusa Dua's pristine beach. Just 20
minutes from the airport, this hotel offers a superb range of facilities including 3 bars and 5 restaurants,
5 pools, tennis, squash, gym, watersports, spa, sauna, steam room and a kids’ club.
Offer Receive up to a 20% earlybird discount. Offer dates vary. Call for details.
Prices from £79 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
THE SAMAYASEMINYAK BALI
★★★★★
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 Honeymooners receive a free one hour Balinese massage. 5 night stay.
Prices from £199 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
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BALI 85INSPIRED BY ASIA
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 choices of five restaurants and four bars.
Offer For stays of 7 nights or more receive one free massage and dinner per person. Conditions apply.
Prices from £60 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
NUSA DUABEACH HOTEL & SPA
★★★★★
BALI Hotels
CONRAD BALIRESORT & SPA
★★★★★
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.
Offer Receive up to 4 nights free. Offer dates vary, call for details.
Prices from £86 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
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UBUD Hotels
Located in the centre of Ubud, the Komaneka is surrounded by lush tropical vegetation, a veritable
oasis in the midst of bustling Ubud and picturesque Monkey Forest Road, with its many wonderful
shops, excellent restaurants and easy access to temples, cultural performances, museums and
galleries. Facilities include a restaurant, pool bar, infinity-edged pool, spa and library. Suite rooms offer
views of the rice fields or garden courtyard. Pool Villas include a private plunge pool.
Offer Receive 5 nights for the price of 4. Offer dates vary. Call for details.
Prices from £90 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
KOMANEKA RESORTAT MONKEY FOREST
★★★★
ALILA UBUD★★★★★
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 4 nights for the price of 3 nights. Offer dates vary, call for details.
Prices from £71 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
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BALI 87INSPIRED BY ASIA
UBUD Hotels
Elephant Safari Park Lodge is set within 3.5 hectares of the award winning Elephant Safari Park, Taro,
20 minutes north of Ubud. A luxury, private purpose-built 25 room safari style lodge which offers a
world exclusive experience to interact, feed, ride, observe, learn, play and stay with 30 beautiful
Sumatran elephants. Featuring all the trappings of a luxury boutique resort, the Lodge is for everyone
from elephant lovers, children and families and for those who enjoy peace and tranquility.
Offer Receive a 10% discount when staying 3 nights or more.
Prices from £85 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
ELEPHANT SAFARI LODGE★★★★★
UMA UBUD★★★★★
The Uma Ubud 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.
Prices from £96 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
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LOMBOK Hotels
THE OBEROILOMBOK★★★★★
The Oberoi Lombok is a luxury hideaway with acres of tropical gardens and golden sands along a private
beach. Lush rainforests, ocean views and beautiful beaches accompany you as you arrive at this idyllic
resort. The Villas and Pavilions have thatched roofs, expansive shaded terraces to relax in and all feature
spacious bedrooms with four-poster beds. Some villas have their own pool. Facilities include two
restaurants, bar, gym, beautiful palm-fringed outdoor pool, watersports, library and a spa.
Offer Receive 4 nights for the price of 3. Offer dates vary, call for details.
Prices from £162 per person per night, based on room only.
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.
Prices from £43 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
SHERATONSENGGIGI
BEACH RESORT ★★★★★
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BALI 89INSPIRED BY ASIA
THE BEST OF BALI 6 Day Private Tour
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.
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: MimpiResort 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 aSuperior 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 BagusCandidasa 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 Umein a Lanai Rice Terrace room for 2 nights.
Day 5 Ubud Pick up from you 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. Then watch the “Elephant
Talent Show” at sunset. 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.
Prices from £719 per person, based on twin
share.
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INDOCHINA
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One 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.
INDOCHINA
INDOCHINA 93
Getting thereVietnam Airlines fly directly to Hanoiand Saigon from London Gatwick.Bangkok and Kuala Lumpur arepopular gateway points for access toalmost all parts of Indochina. Flyingtime to the region is around 11-12hours.
Guide to the countriesVietnam offers two outstanding cities inSaigon and Hanoi. The capital Hanoi inparticular has retained much of itscharacter and history and is thegateway to one of the region’s mostamazing sights; Halong Bay.The beaches of Vietnam are becomingmore and more popular, with resortssuch as Hoi An, Phan Thiet and NhaTrang, but there is so much more tothese areas, with impressive historicaltemples and busy, photogenic ports.The World Heritage site of Angkor Wat,Cambodia is famous for its beauty andsplendour and a must-see on any Indochina itinerary. LuangPrabang, in the north of neighbouring Laos, is a tranquil town on thebanks of the Mekong River, providing visitors with a taste ofauthentic Asia.
When to goFor Hanoi the summer months from May toOctober can be hot with regular downpours.Winter from November to April is cooler anddrier and a better time to visit. Saigon isparticularly hot during March to May, with thewet season from May to November. Decemberto March is considered the best time to visitSaigon and the beaches of Central Vietnam.For Angkor Wat and Cambodia, November toFebruary is ideal with cooler and drierweather. May to October sees brief showersand high humidity. October to March is thebest time to visit Luang Prabang in Laos,when the weather is cooler and drier than atother times.
Important to noteBritish passport holders require a passportvalid for at least six months following thereturn date of the trip. Visas are requiredindividually for Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos.A 30 day visa for Vietnam can be arranged inadvance and will cost approximately £55.
You can contact the Vietnamese embassy in London to arrange this.For Cambodia and Laos you can get a visa on arrival ($20 and $25),though for Cambodia it is preferable to obtain this in advance.For Vietnam and Cambodia we recommend contactingwww.thetravelvisacompany.co.uk or call 01270 250590.For vaccination requirements, please contact your doctor.
INDOCHINA AVERAGE MONTHLY TEMPERATURES AND RAINFALL (Temperatures in °Centigrade, Rainfall in millimetres)
Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
°C R °C R °C R °C R °C R °C R °C R °C R °C R °C R °C R °C RHanoi 20 18 21 28 23 38 28 81 32 196 33 239 33 323 32 343 31 254 29 99 26 43 22 20
Hoi An 25 59 26 23 28 23 31 38 33 83 35 64 34 62 34 134 32 240 29 530 27 375 25 215Saigon 26 4 27 14 28 16 29 27 30 230 30 293 29 290 29 271 29 341 28 262 27 109 25 8
INSPIRED BY ASIA
HalongBay
Saigon
Hue
Hoi An
VIETNAM
CAMBODIA
THAILAND
LAOS
CHINA
BURMA
Nha Trang
Phan Thiet
Luang Prabang
Angkor Wat
Vientiane
Hanoi
Phnom Penh
IBA 2015 - 2ND DRAFT_Layout 1 13/08/2014 18:25 Page 93
THE BEST OF INDOCHINA 16 Day Private Tour
94 INDOCHINA inspiredbyasia.co.uk
This 16 day Indochina highlights
tour encompasses the very best
of Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos.
Travel south through Vietnam
from Hanoi to Saigon, into
Cambodia to discover the capital
Phnom Penh and the majestic
Angkor Wat complex. The trip
ends in magical Laos, with a stay
in laid-back Luang Prabang.
Departs daily. International flights
are not included.
Price includes•15 nights hotel accommodation •Breakfast daily, 8 lunches and 1 dinner•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 for a swim
and enjoy lunch. Then return to Hanoi. Late
afternoon flight to Hue.
Day 5 Hue - Hoi An Morning tour of historic
Hue including the Citadel and former Imperial
Palace. Then a spectacular five-hour drive via
the Hai Van Pass to Hoi An.
Day 6 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 7 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. In the evening enjoy a dinner cruise
on the Saigon River.
Day 8 Saigon - Cao Dai Temple - Cu ChiTunnels Visit the fascinating Cao Dai Temple,
home to a unique religion. Continue to the Cu
Chi Tunnels before returning to the city.
Day 9 Mekong Delta Visit Cai Be floating
market. Continue cruising along the Mekong
canals before lunch and overnight in Can Tho.
Day 10 Can Tho - Chau Doc Visit a village
which makes bamboo baskets. After lunch,
walk around Chau Doc and see the bustling
market. Continue to Sam Mountain for
breathtaking views towards Cambodia.
Day 11 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 12 Phnom Penh - Siem Reap Late
morning transfer to the airport for your flight to
Siem Reap. Spend the afternoon visiting the
amazing and awe inspiring temples of Angkor.
Day 13 Temples of Angkor Continue to explore
the Angkor temples.
Day 14 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 15 Luang Prabang Enjoy a morning tour
of the atmospheric town of Luang Prabang.
Day 16 Depart Luang Prabang Morning at
leisure before your transfer to the airport to
complete the itinerary.
Prices Standard (4 star) from £2549 or
Superior (5 star) from £2899. Per person,
based on twin share.
VIETNAM
Saigon
Hanoi
HueDanang
Nha Trang
Hoi An
CAMBODIA
THAILAND
LAOS
HalongBay
Bangkok
Vientiane
Luang Prabang
Phnom Penh
Angkor Wat
IBA 2015 - 2ND DRAFT_Layout 1 13/08/2014 18:25 Page 94
INDOCHINA 95INSPIRED BY ASIA
THE BEST OF VIETNAM 12 Day Private Tour
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 Saigon.
International flights are not
included. Departs daily.
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,
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. Met on arrival and transferred to
your hotel.
Day 5 Hue to Hoi An Morning tour of Hue
including the Imperial Citadel and Mu Pagoda.
Scenic drive to Hoi An via the spectacular Hai
Van Pass.
Day 6 Hoi An This morning take a walking tour
of Hoi An’s ancient town, strolling along
rambling streets and into old houses.
Day 7 Hoi An Full day at leisure in Hoi An.
Perhaps pay a visit to the beach, or enjoy a
cruise along the river. There is also an optional
cooking class.
Day 8 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 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 CuChi Tunnels from £33 per person.
Day 10 Saigon to The Mekong Delta Visit the
colourful Cai Be floating market and local
home factories on a relaxing cruise. After
lunch enjoy a short walk along a narrow canal.
Stay overnight in Can Tho.
Day 11 The Mekong Delta to Saigon Up early
for a visit to Cai Rang market. This is one of
the largest floating markets in the Mekong
Delta. A fascinating sight as goods are sold
from a myriad of boats. Return to Saigon,
arriving back late afternoon.
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
109 for details and prices.
Prices per person: Standard (4-star) from
£1549. Superior (5-star) from £1749. Based
on twin share.
VIETNAM
Saigon
Hanoi
HueDanang
Nha Trang
Hoi An
CAMBODIA
THAILAND
LAOS
HalongBay
Bangkok
Angkor Wat
IBA 2015 - 2ND DRAFT_Layout 1 13/08/2014 18:25 Page 95
96 INDOCHINA inspiredbyasia.co.uk
THE BEST OF VIETNAM & CAMBODIA 15 Day Private Tour
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.
Price includes•14 nights hotel accommodation •Breakfast daily, 7 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 or 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. Met on arrival and transferred to
your hotel.
Day 5 Hue to Hoi An Tour of Hue then scenic
drive to Hoi An via the spectacular Hai Van
Pass. There will be stops en route to take in
the views of the coastline from this amazing
vantage point.
Day 6 Hoi An This morning take a walking tour
of Hoi An’s ancient town, strolling along
rambling streets and into old houses.
Day 7 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 8 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.
Day 9 Saigon to The Mekong Delta Visit the
colourful Cai Be floating market and local
home factories on a relaxing cruise. After
lunch enjoy a short walk along a narrow canal.
Stay overnight in Can Tho.
Day 10 Can Tho to Chau Doc Short journey to
the border town of Chau Doc.
Day 11 Chau Doc to Phnom Penh Board a
speedboat for a 5-hour journey to Cambodia’s
capital.
Day 12 Phnom Penh Morning at leisure, then
a city tour in the afternoon.
Day 13 Phnom Penh to Siem Reap Flight to
Siem Reap. Afternoon tour of Angkor Wat.
Day 14 Temples of Angkor Morning or
afternoon tour of Angkor Wat.
Day 15 Depart Siem Reap At leisure before
your transfer to the airport.
Prices per person: Standard (4-star) from
£2212. Superior (5-star) from £2599. Based
on twin share.
VIETNAM
Saigon
Hanoi
HueDanang
Nha Trang
Hoi An
CAMBODIA
THAILAND
LAOS
HalongBay
BangkokAngkor Wat
Phnom Penh
IBA 2015 - 2ND DRAFT_Layout 1 13/08/2014 18:25 Page 96
INDOCHINA 97INSPIRED BY ASIA
HALONG BAY OVERNIGHT CRUISES
2 DAY RED DRAGON JUNK CRUISE
The Red Dragon Junk has an ancient Chinese sail boat style
with three sails. This boat includes five deluxe cabins, all with en
suite facilities. There is a luxury dining room and bar and plenty
of space on deck for sunbathing and relaxing. Departs Hanoi
daily. Includes all meals. The Red Dragon Junk is for those who
would like a smaller vessel with a more authentic experience.
Day 1 Hanoi to Halong Bay In the morning, transfer from your
hotel in Hanoi to Halong Bay, about a 4 hour drive with a
refreshment break en route. Meet the crew upon boarding the
traditional wooden junk, then relax and enjoy lunch while the
boat heads towards the secluded Bai Tu Long Bay. Visit ancient
limestone caves and go sea kayaking and swimming if the
weather permits.
Return to the junk
refreshed and
invigorated and
relax on deck with
a drink to watch the
sunset. Enjoy a
freshly prepared
seafood dinner
under the stars.
Day 2 Halong Bay to Hanoi Enjoy the fresh air and gentle
breeze of the bay in morning. Cruise through Bai Tu Long, and
visit the floating fishing village of Vong Vieng and learn about
daily life here. Cruise back to the dock arriving in Halong around
noon then transfer back to Hanoi, arriving at your hotel at
approximately 4pm.
Prices from £276 per person based on twin share.
2 DAY PARADISE LUXURY JUNK CRUISE
Launched in 2009, Paradise is one of the newest luxury junks cruising in
Halong Bay. The 17 cabins are spacious and lavishly appointed. Enjoy
meals in the stylish restaurant, and the top deck features the Moonlight
Bar for unforgettable views. Includes a sauna, jacuzzi, massages and
beauty treatments. Departs Hanoi daily. All meals included.
Day 1 Hanoi to Halong BayEarly departure from your
Hanoi hotel with a 4 hour drive
to Halong, with a refreshment
break en route. Board
‘Paradise’ junk on Tuan Chau
Island and meet the crew.
Enjoy a welcome cocktail and
Asian buffet lunch while
admiring the beautiful bay
scenery. Spend the day
cruising around the UNESCO
heritage-listed bay. Go kayaking
or swimming (weather
permitting) or relax on the
sundeck and enjoy the sunset over the islands as the boat arrives at its
anchorage for the evening. There is a cooking demonstration. Dinner is
a freshly prepared seafood feast and the evening entertainment includes
movies, board games or spa treatments.
Day 2 Halong Bay to Hanoi Awake to morning tai chi and a buffet
breakfast and cruise to Ti Top - one of the most beautiful beaches of the
bay. Climb 400 steps up to the top of the island for a breathtaking
panoramic view of the bay before cruising back and returning to Hanoi
around 2.30pm.
Prices from £262 per person, based on twin share.
IBA 2015 - 2ND DRAFT_Layout 1 13/08/2014 18:25 Page 97
98 INDOCHINA inspiredbyasia.co.uk
MEKONG DELTA HOTELS & CRUISE
Offer Receive a 5% discount for a 3 night stay. Year round.
Prices from £68 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
VICTORIA CHAU DOC HOTEL
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 5% discount for a 3 night stay. Year round.
Prices from £47 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
★★★★
VICTORIA CAN THO RESORT
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.
★★★★
2 DAY MEKONG DELTA CRUISE
The Bassac is entirely built of wood, from the hull of an 80-foot-
long rice barge. She can accommodate up to 12 passengers in
six nicely decorated cabins, each with air-conditioning and a
private bathroom, and features a restaurant that opens all
around, a large gallery, a small office room and 700 sq foot of
sundeck. This is a great way to experience the Mekong Delta.
Includes all meals. Departs daily.
Day 1 Saigon - Can Tho - Bassac CruiseDepart from the hotel in Saigon at 8:30am and transfer to Can
Tho by road. Upon arrival, board the Bassac. Enjoy lunch on the
sundeck as the boat heads toward Cho Lach on the Tien Giang
River. Relax and watch a landscape of rice fields, sugar cane,
forests and rural life. Stop off at Cho Lach canal for a quick look
at the sand and rice barges and local shipyards. Visit the Co
Chien or Mang Thit villages and meet some of the local people
and enjoy their hospitality. Dinner is served while the Bassac
cruises the Mang Thit River. Overnight on the boat.
Day 2 Mang Thit – Cai Be – SaigonRise to the bustling sounds of the Mekong River in the morning.
At 6.30am the boat departs for Cai Be. Enjoy breakfast while
cruising the canals and observing the morning boat traffic.
The Bassac crosses Co Chien River and into Cho Lach canal,
passing sand and rice barges. On the banks are fruit drying
facilities and wooden ship building yards. Arrive in Cai Be and
board a local boat to tour the Cai Be floating market and
handicraft villages. Afterwards, you are transferred back to
Saigon.
Prices from £336 per person, based on twin share.
IBA 2015 - 2ND DRAFT_Layout 1 13/08/2014 18:25 Page 98
INDOCHINA 99INSPIRED BY ASIA
MEKONG RIVER CRUISE 12 Day Tour
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.
Price includes•Two nights in Siem Reap, two nights Saigon•Tour of Angkor Wat and Saigon•Seven nights aboard the RV La Marguerite•All meals aboard•Complimentary local beer, local spirits and
soft drinks served at your discretion•Complimentary wine with lunch and 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 Victoria Angkor
Resort & Spa for a 2 night stay incl. breakfast.
Day 2 Angkor Wat A full day fully guided tour.
Day 3 Siem Reap, Embark Cruise After
breakfast board the RV La Marguerite, for a
seven-night Mekong River cruise. This evening
enjoy a Welcome Dinner in the Mekong
Restaurant. Seven Nights: RV La Marguerite
Day 4 Kampong Chhnang, Kampong Tralach,Oudong Take a boat into the wetlands that
form Tonle-Sap’s river-mouth. Then continue
along the Mekong to Kampong Tralach, where
you’ll enjoy an ox-cart ride. Then travel by
coach to Oudong, the royal capital from 1618
until 1866. Visit the monastery for a Buddhist
blessing. Return to the ship.
Day 5 Koh Chen, Phnom Penh Explore the
copper manufacturing village of Koh Chen
today, before continuing on to Phnom Penh,
the Cambodian capital. After dinner on board,
take in a Khmer folk performance.
Day 6 Phnom Penh Tour of Phnom Penh. Visit
the opulent Royal Palace and the Silver
Pagoda. After lunch on ship, join an excursion
to the infamous Killing Fields and the Tuol
Sleng Genocide Museum on the site of the
Khmer Rouge’s notorious Security Prison 21
(S-21). After dinner, perhaps step out for an
evening walk of the capital.
Day 7 Border Crossing, Tan Chau Entire day
on board. Arrive in the Vietnamese town of Tan
Chau, where your ship will remain moored
overnight.
Day 8 Tan Chau, Sa Dec Travel along the tiny
tributaries that snake around Tan Chau, and
visit a remote island to witness rural Mekong
life. Later, venture ashore for a rickshaw tour of
Tan Chau and visit several local workshops.
Back on board, you might choose to attend a
lecture on Vietnam in the lounge.
Day 9 Sa Dec, Cai Be A boat ride to Sa Dec
for a guided tour of the city. After lunch, a local
boat takes you to the river-land town of Cai Be.
to visit the French Gothic Cathedral and a local
rice paper maker. This evening, return to your
ship and enjoy your last night onboard.
Day 10 Disembark Ship, Saigon Disembark
the RV La Marguerite for the final time at My
Tho Port today and travel by coach to Saigon.
Stay 2 nights at the Renaissance Riverside
Hotel in a River view room with breakfast daily.
Day 11 Saigon city tour A half day guided tour
that takes in the main sights of this bustling
city. Afternoon at leisure.
Day 12 Depart Saigon Your exciting journey
throughout Indochina comes to an end today.
After breakfast, you will be transferred to the
airport for your onward flight home to the UK.
Prices from £1599 per person.
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100 INDOCHINA inspiredbyasia.co.uk
SAIGON
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 flavour
and a timeless quality. Alongside its
colonial buildings and bustling street
markets you’ll find sleek new bars,
pavement cafés and some of the most
delicious food in Asia with a good choice
of restaurants.
Travel Saigon is served by
scheduled services from most
Asian cities, with onwards
connections from London.
There are no direct flights from
the UK. The airport is 4 miles
north of the city, a 20-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
Reunification Palace; a symbol
of the war and scene of the fall
of Saigon in 1975. The French-
style Central Post Office 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 afield
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.
1
SA IGON
Airport
Notre DameCathedral
Saigon River
2
Saigon River
ReunificationPalace
City Hall
Fine ArtsMuseum
Ho Chi MinhMuseum
ZooRailway Station
3
IBA 2015 - 2ND DRAFT_Layout 1 13/08/2014 18:26 Page 100
INDOCHINA 101INSPIRED BY ASIA
SAIGON Hotels
Offer Receive a 5% discount for stays of 5 nights or more. Year round.
Prices from £70 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
CARAVELLE HOTEL
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, fitness centre, jacuzzi, spa and
wide range of bars and restaurants.
★★★★★
Offer Receive a 5% discount for stays of 5 nights or more. Year round.
Prices from £162 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
2
RENAISSANCE RIVERSIDE HOTEL SAIGON
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, Reunification 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.
Offer Receive a 5% discount for stays of 5 nights or more. Year round.
Prices from £53 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
★★★★3
LIBERTY CENTRAL HOTEL
A new hotel located right in the heart of Saigon's vibrant city, close to
Ben Thanh market and a short stroll from shopping arcades,
entertainment and famous landmarks such as the City Opera House,
Central Post Office, Cathedral, Unification Palace and the Walk (Dong
Khoi street). This modern hotel has 139 rooms which offer superb views
of Saigon. Hotel facilities include a restaurant, coffee lounge, fitness
centre, outdoor swimming pool and pool bar and massage parlour.
Offer Receive a 5% discount for stays of 5 nights or more. Year round.
Prices from £39 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
★★★★4
PARK HYATT SAIGON
The luxurious Park Hyatt Saigon is one of the finest hotels in the city,
located right in the heart of this bustling metropolis on Larn Son Square.
Overlooking the elegant Opera House this 9 storey hotel is within walking
distance to the cultural and historical sites of Saigon. The spacious,
colonial style rooms offer either a city or stunning pool view. Facilities
include a 20-metre outdoor pool set in pretty gardens, a spa, fitness
centre, bar and a restaurant. Live Jazz in the lounge most evenings.
★★★★★1
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102 INDOCHINA
HANOI
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.
Travel Hanoi is served by
scheduled services from most
Asian cities, with onwards
connections from London.
There are no direct flights from
the UK. The airport is 22 miles
north of the city, which is a 50-
minute drive.
We can arrange for you to be
met on arrival and transferred
privately to your hotel. From
£12 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 afield 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.
inspiredbyasia.co.uk
1
3
2
HANOI
West Lake
Ho Chi MinhMausoleum
OldQuarter
Museum ofEthnology
RedRiver
Thong NhatPark
IBA 2015 - 2ND DRAFT_Layout 1 13/08/2014 18:28 Page 102
INDOCHINA 103
HANOI Hotels
MAI CHAU LODGE 3-DAY SIDE TRIP
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.
Prices from £329 per person, based on twin share.
INSPIRED BY ASIA
Offer Receive a 5% discount for stays of 5 nights or more. Year round
Prices from £47 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
Offer Receive a 5% discount for stays of 5 nights or more. Year round.
Prices from £106 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
INTERCONTINENTAL WESTLAKE HANOI
The new Intercontinental Westlake Hanoi overlooks the 800 year old
Golden Lotus Pagoda on Hanoi’s largest lake. Offering a sublime
waterfront location, this outstanding hotel is just a 10-minute taxi ride from
the historic old quarter of the city. All of the guest rooms feature private
balconies overlooking either the West Lake or the Hanoi skyline. Facilities
include an outdoor pool, fitness centre, choice of restaurants and a sunset
bar, set on its own island with a selection of cocktails and great views.
★★★★★2
SILK PATH HOTEL
This newly-opened boutique hotel offers 106 rooms and a convenient
location in Hanoi’s Old Quarter. Close by are attractions such as the Loan
Kiem Lake, the night market and the Water Puppet Theatre. Rooms are
comfortably appointed to a high standard. The hotel offers both a
signature restaurant serving Asian and Vietnamese cuisines as well as a
Mediterranean-style restaurant. Choice of bars. Hotel facilities include a
fitness centre, spa and jacuzzi.
Offer Receive a 5% discount for stays of 5 nights or more.
Prices from £37 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
★★★★3
SOFITEL LEGEND METROPOLE HOTEL
Located at the heart of Hanoi close to the old quarter and the Opera
House, the charming Sofitel 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, fitness centre, a café, bar and two restaurants.
★★★★★1
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HOI AN and DANANG
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.
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.
AttractionsVisit My Son, a World Heritage
site, 40 km 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 goThe 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. Overall, the best time
to visit Hoi An and Danang is
between May and June.
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INDOCHINA 105INSPIRED BY ASIA
HOI AN and DANANG Hotels
Offer Receive a 5% discount when staying 7 nights or more. Year round.
Prices from £217 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
VICTORIA HOI AN BEACH RESORT & SPA
The Victoria Hoi An Beach Resort enjoys a wonderful private beach front
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.
Offer Receive a 5% discount for stays of 7 nights or more. Year round.
Prices from £58 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
★★★★★
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.
Offer Receive a 5% discount for stays of 10 nights or more. Year round.
Prices from £161 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
★★★★★
Offer Receive a 5% discount for stays of 5 nights or more. Year round.
Prices from £56 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
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.
★★★★
THE NAM HAI
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.
★★★★★
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ISLAND RESORTS OF VIETNAM
Set off the south-east coast of Vietnam the
scenic island of Con Dao host the Six Senses
Con Dao. Located just off the Vietnamese and
Cambodian coastlines is the beautiful island
of Phu Quoc. Both of these islands offer an
ideal beach retreat at the end of a tour of
Vietnam. Idyllic sandy beaches and a laid-
back atmosphere encourage visitors to spend
anything from a few days to a fortnight on
these shores.
Phnom Penh
CAMBODIA
SaigonPhu Quoc
Con Dao
VIETNAM
GULFOF
THAILAND
TravelBoth islands are served with
scheduled flights from
Saigon. In addition for Phu
Quoc there are also a limited
number of flights from Can
Tho in the Mekong Delta or
Rach Gia. Flying time to both
islands from Saigon is around
50 minutes. There is a
speedboat service to Phu
Quoc from Rach Gia.
When to goNovember through to March
is generally considered the
best time to visit these
islands. Note that
accommodation and flights
are very busy for this period
so advanced booking is
highly recommended. April
and May can be very hot and
humid. The wet season really
extends from July to
September when you can
expect some wild weather
conditions. Temperatures are
fairly consistent year round
with day time temperatures
around 30-32°C.
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INDOCHINA 107INSPIRED BY ASIA
ISLAND RESORTS OF VIETNAM
SIX SENSESCON DAO ★★★★★
Six Senses Con Dao is set in an area of outstanding natural beauty. The 50 villas sit along a mile of
golden sand, looking out at the blue sea and curve of the bay and sheltered by darkly green forested
mountains. The whole area has been protected as a nature and marine reserve for decades and its
unspoilt beauty is home to many endangered and indigenous species. All villas include a private infinity
pool. Styles range from single-level to duplex and offer one, three and four bedrooms.
Offer Receive up to 2 nights free. Offer dates vary, call for details.
Prices from £231 per person per night, including breakfast daily
LA VERANDA RESORT ★★★★
Located on Phu Quoc Island, La Veranda Resort, 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.
Offer Receive a 5% discount when staying 7 nights. Year round.
Prices from £74 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
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108 INDOCHINA inspiredbyasia.co.uk
ANGKOR WAT
Angkor Wat, constructed over a period of 30 years, is world famous
for its beauty and splendour. In 1992, the 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, generally a
20 minute drive. Here there’s an excellent choice of accommodation
and an abundance of cafés, restaurants, galleries and shops.
Travel Siem Reap’s Angkor
International Airport is the
gateway for Angkor Wat. The
airport is served with flights from
Bangkok, Singapore, Kuala
Lumpur as well as Hanoi and
Saigon, amongst others. The
airport is a 20-minute drive from
Siem Reap.
Attractions There is so much to
see at Angkor Wat. It’s entirely
possible to spend three days
visiting all of the major sites.
Most visitors will allow either a
full day or two. An English-
speaking guide is
recommended. One of the most
popular attractions of Angkor is
Ta Prohm. This is a part of the
site that has not had the jungle
cleared, with the result that it
looks very much as most of the
Angkor monuments would have
appeared when European
explorers first stumbled across
them; shrouded in jungle,
untouched by archaeologists.
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.
Angkor Wat
AngkorThom
Airport
Siem Reap
West Baray
Angkor Krau Ta Prohm
Trang
Pradak
Srah Srang
N a t i o n a lH i g h w a y
6
N a t i o n a l H i g h w a y 6SIEM REAP &
ANGKOR WAT
REGION
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INDOCHINA 109INSPIRED BY ASIA
RAFFLES GRAND HOTEL D’ANGKOR
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 5% discount when staying 4 nights or more. Year round.
Prices from £109 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
ANGKOR WAT Hotels
★★★★★
VICTORIA ANGKOR RESORT & SPA
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.
Offer Receive a 5% discount for stays of 4 nights or more. Year round.
Prices from £46 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
★★★★
NAVUTU DREAMS HOTEL RESORT & SPA
The Navutu Dreams Hotel Resort & Spa, is a luxury boutique resort
located in Siem Reap, minutes away from the beautiful Angkor Wat
Archeological Park. Navutu Dreams opened its doors on the 1st of
August 2012 and it is already considered one of the best Siem Reap
hotels. Caters for a maximum of 36 guests in 18 spacious and beautifully
decorated rooms allocated in 5 separate pavilions. Facilities include 2
pools, a kids pool, a yoga studio, spa, bar and restaurant.
Offer Receive a 5% discount when staying 4 nights or more. Year round.
Prices from £38 per person per night, including breakfast daily.
★★★★
Includes
• 2 nights 4 or 5-star hotel
• Return private airport transfers
• Angkor Wat private tour
Day 1 Arrive Siem Reap
Met on arrival at Siem Reap
Airport and transferred to your
accommodation.
Rest of the day at leisure.
Day 2 Angkor Wat tour
A full day to experience this World
Heritage site. Includes the South
Gate of Angkor Thom City, The
Bayon, Baphuon Temple, The
Royal Enclosure, Phimeanakas
and the Terrace of Elephants and
Terrace of Leper Kings. Visit the
jungle-clad Ta Prohm before a
tour of Angkor Wat Temple, easily
the most famous and best
preserved of all the structures
within the complex. Your guide will
endeavour to help you avoid the
crowded parts of the site.
Day 3 Depart Siem Reap
Private transfer to Siem Reap
Airport.
Prices per person from £189 at
Victoria Angkor and from £339 at
Raffles Grand Hotel D’Angkor.
ANGKOR WAT3-DAY PRIVATE TOUR
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110
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BURMA
111
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112 INDOCHINA inspiredbyasia.co.uk
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INDOCHINA 113INSPIRED BY ASIA
A 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.
BURMA
Getting thereThere are no direct flights from the UK toBurma. However there are several goodchoices for connecting flights. Thai Airwaysoffer flights to Rangoon via Bangkok, withMalaysia Airlines via Kuala Lumpur andSingapore Airlines via Singapore.
Guide to the countryBurma is a country of great beauty anddiversity, dominated by lush mountainslopes covered with alpine forests in the farnorth and steamy jungles in the south;broad flat plains in central regions likeBagan; the famous Irrawaddy River andover 1199 miles of coastline boasting someof Asia’s most stunning beaches. Yourtravels in the country will take in some ofthe gorgeous river and mountain scenery inthe country, the extraordinary templestudded plains of Bagan, the tranquilvillages around lovely Inle Lake as well asthe famous cities of Mandalay andRangoon. While these are the country’sbiggest cities, they are relaxed, at times sleepy - a far cry from thehuge size and frenetic pace of many other cities in Asia!
When to goMost of Burma lies within the Tropic Zone. It has a monsoon climatewith three main seasons. The hottest period is between Februaryand May, with little or no rain and temperatures between 30°C and
35°C. The rainy season exists from May toOctober when the country receives most of itsyearly rainfall and temperatures ranging from25°C to 30°C. You can expect dry, coolerweather from October to February withtemperatures at 20°C – 25°C but as cold as5°C in higher altitudes or at Inle Lake.
Important to noteBritish passport holders require a visa to visitBurma and a visa must be obtained beforeyou depart the UK. It can be arranged up to 3months before your scheduled arrival dateinto Burma. A full passport is required, validfor at least 6 months beyond the date of yourdeparture from Burma. Once issued, the visais valid for 3 months with a maximum stay inthe country of 28 days. Assistance withobtaining a visa can be given by The TravelVisa Company.www.thetravelvisacompany.co.uk tel: 01270250590. We strongly recommend you consultyour preferred doctor for the most up-to-date
health advice at least one month prior to travel. The official languageof Burma is Burmese. Basic English is widely spoken in urban areasand around popular tourist sites such as Bagan. English is well-understood and widely spoken by guides and hotel staff. The officialcurrency is Kyat (MMK). US Dollars are widely accepted and you areadvised to take US Dollars with you. Credit cards are not widelyaccepted and there are no ATMs.
BURMA AVERAGE MONTHLY TEMPERATURES AND RAINFALL (Temperatures in °Centigrade, Rainfall in millimetres)
Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
°C R °C R °C R °C R °C R °C R °C R °C R °C R °C R °C R °C RRangoon 20 3 23 0 28 16 32 14 32 151 30 110 30 77 29 99 29 127 28 152 24 25 21 2
B U R M A
THAILAND
LAOS
CHINA
Rangoon
Ngapali
Bagan
Mandalay
Inle Lake
BAY
OF
BENGAL
IBA 2015 - 2ND DRAFT_Layout 1 13/08/2014 18:29 Page 113
HIGHLIGHTS OF BURMA 9 Day Private Tour
114 INDOCHINA inspiredbyasia.co.uk
Price includes•8 nights accommodation •All meals•English-speaking guide•Air-conditioned vehicles•Flights Rangoon-Bagan-Mandalay-Heho-
Rangoon
Day 1 Arrive Rangoon Upon arrival at Yangon
International Airport, Our Myanmar Connection
- Asia World guide will welcome you and you
will be transferred to your hotel. Tonight meet
your tour guide for a tour briefing. Hotel: Best
Western Green Hill Hotel – 2 nights
Day 2 Rangoon sightseeing Highlights
include: Sule Pagoda, Little India and China
Town, the magnificent reclining Buddha and
Royal Lake, one of the central Yangon’s
greenest spots. After lunch visit Bogyoke Aung
San Market and finally the spectacular
Shwedagon Pagoda.
Day 3 Rangoon to Bagan Morning transfer to
Yangon airport for your flight to Nyaung U.
Stroll through the market and continue with a
visit to Shwezigon Pagoda, Gbyaukgyi,
Htilominlo and Ananda Temple. After lunch
visit a traditional lacquer ware workshop then
continue sightseeing at Thatbyinnyu Temple.
Enjoy the magnificent sunset from one of the
open terraces of Bagan Temples. Hotel: Thazin
Garden – 2 nights
Day 4 Bagan After breakfast continue
sightseeing at the famous Bagan Temples and
Pagodas. In the afternoon visit Kyauk Gu U
Min then return to the boat for a relaxing
cruise back to Bagan (approximately 1 hour).
In the late afternoon a horse-cart ride will take
you among magnificent Temples and Pagodas.
Day 5 Bagan to Mandalay Transfer to Nyaung
U airport for your flight to Mandalay. On the
way to Mandalay visit the former capital of
Amarapura, Mahagandayon Monastery and U
Bein Teak bridge. In the afternoon enjoy
sightseeing at Shwenandaw Kyaung, then, visit
the 'world’s largest book' - the Buddhist
Scriptures inscribed on marble slabs, and
Kyaukdawgyi Pagoda. Enjoy views of Mandalay
from the hill. Hotel: Mandalay City – 2 nights
Day 6 Mandalay Highlights include a boat ride
to the town of Mingun, Sagaing Hill, Inwa and
a horse cart ride to Bagaya Monastery. Visit
Nanmyint Watch Tower.
Day 7 Mandalay to Inle Lake Morning transfer
to Mandalay airport for your flight to Heho.
Visit Nyaung Shwe, Shwe Yan Pyae Monastery,
Inn Paw Khon and Phaung Daw Oo Pagoda,
the holiest religious site in Southern Shan
State, then continue to Nga Phe Kyaung
Monastery. Hotel: Inle Resort – 1 night
Day 8 Inle Lake to Rangoon After breakfast
visit the floating market. Explore the ancient
ruined pagodas at Indein. Fly from Heho to
Rangoon. Hotel: Best Western Green Hill Hotel
– 1 night
Day 9: Rangoon departure Morning at leisure
before your onward flight.
Prices from £1599 per person, based on twin-
share.
Discover exotic Burma on this
journey through its highlights.
A land spiked with temples,
with 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, for an
insight into life in a land which
has been mostly cut off from
Western influence for so long.
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.
BURMA
THAILAND
LAOS
CHINA
Rangoon
Ngapali
Bagan
Mandalay
Inle Lake
IBA 2015 - 2ND DRAFT_Layout 1 13/08/2014 18:29 Page 114
THE BEST OF BURMA 13 Day Private Tour
Your travels in the country will
take in some of the most
breathtaking rural and riverside
scenery in the country. See the
extraordinary temple studded
plains of Bagan, the tranquil
villages around lovely Inle Lake
as well as the famous cities of
Mandalay and Rangoon.
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.
Price includes•12 nights’ accommodation •All meals•English-speaking guide•Air-conditioned vehicles•Flights Rangoon-Bagan-Mandalay-Heho-
Rangoon
Day 1 Arrive Rangoon Upon arrival at Yangon
International Airport, our Myanmar Connection
- Asia World guide will welcome you and you
will be transferred to your hotel. Hotel: Best
Western Green Hill Hotel – 2 nights
Day 2 Rangoon Sightseeing Highlights
include: Sule Pagoda, Little India and China
Town, the magnificent reclining Buddha, Royal
Lake, Bogyoke Aung San Market and finally
spectacular Shwedagon Pagoda.
Day 3 Rangoon to Bagan Flight to Nyaung U.
Visit the market, pagodas and temple. After
lunch visit a traditional lacquer ware workshop,
then Thatbyinnyu Temple. Enjoy the sunset
from one of the open terraces of Bagan
Temples. Hotel: Thazin Garden – 2 nights
Day 4 Bagan A morning’s exploration of the
famous temples and pagodas of Bagan. Visit
Kyauk Gu U Min then enjoy a relaxing cruise
back to Bagan. An afternoon horse-cart ride
visits the magnificent temples and pagodas.
Day 5 Bagan to Mandalay Transfer to Nyaung
U airport for your flight to Mandalay. On the
way to Mandalay visit the former capital of
Amarapura, Mahagandayon Monastery and U
Bein Teak bridge. Afternoon sightseeing of
Shwenandaw Kyaung, then visit the 'world’s
largest book' and Kyaukdawgyi Pagoda.
Enjoy a view of Mandalay from the hill.
Hotel: Mandalay City – 3 nights
Day 6 Sagaing and Inwa Morning visit to
Sagaing, which is situated 21 km from
Mandalay and on the other bank of the
Ayeyarwaddy River and Sagaing hill. At Inwa
enjoy a horse cart ride to Bagaya Monastery.
Day 7 Mingun Morning transfer to the jetty for
an hour's boat ride from Mandalay, along the
Ayeyarwady River, to the little town of Mingun.
Tour highlight includes Mingun pagoda
(Phatodawgyi), Mingun bell, and beautiful
Hsinbyume Pagoda. After that return to
Mandalay by boat.
Day 8 Mandalay to Kalaw Morning transfer to
Mandalay airport for a flight to Heho. Drive to
Pindaya and visit Pindaya cave, then proceed
to Kalaw, a charming former hill station and
forest. Hotel: Hill Top Villa Resort – 1 night
Day 9 Kalaw to Inle Lake Visit Nyaung Shwe
then journey by boat to explore the floating
gardens, village life and magnificent scenery.
Visit Inn Paw Khon and Phaung Daw Oo
Pagoda. Then continue to Nga Phe Kyaung
Monastery. Hotel: Inle Resort – 3 nights
Day 10 Indein Visit the floating market and the
beautiful ancient stupas.
Day 11 Inle Lake trekking A day of easy
trekking into villages beyond Inle Lake, home
to some of Burma’s ethnic minorities.
Day 12 Inle Lake to Rangoon Morning transfer
to Heho airport for flight to Rangoon. Hotel:
Best Western Green Hill Hotel – 1 night
Day 13 Depart Rangoon Morning at leisure
before your airport transfer.
Prices from £2099 per person, based on twin
share.
INDOCHINA 115INSPIRED BY ASIA
BURMA
THAILAND
LAOS
CHINA
Rangoon
KalawBagan
Mandalay
InleLake
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BURMA RIVER CRUISES Belmond Road to Mandalay
Experience the enchanting
sights, scents and sounds of the
Ayeyarwady River with either a
3, 4, 7 or 11-night cruise
aboard the Belmond Road to
Mandalay. Travel in style
through many of the countries
impressive sights and scenery.
Cabin accom-modation is
spacious and air-conditioned.
On board you’ll enjoy the top
deck pool and bar, a gourmet
restaurant and piano bar.
Cabins are comfortable and
spacious and feature stunning
river views. Flights from Yangon
are included. Sightseeing
excursions included.
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.
Prices from £820 per person, based on twin
share.
116 INDOCHINA inspiredbyasia.co.uk
HIGHLIGHTS OF MYANMAR 3 NIGHT CRUISE
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BURMA RIVER CRUISES Belmond Road to Mandalay
INDOCHINA 117INSPIRED BY ASIA
Day 1 Bagan Morning domestic flight from
Yangon to Bagan. On arrival, transfer to the
Road To Mandalay berthed on the Ayeyarwady
River. In the afternoon the guide takes you to
into Bagan where over 2,000 temples and
ancient pagodas remain on an awe-inspiring
plain. Watch the sun setting over a field of
glowing pagodas by the river. Return to the
ship for dinner.
Day 2 Bagan Markets After breakfast join the
guide to explore some of Bagan's local
markets selling wood carvings, fabrics, longis
and rattan goods. See Myanmar's famous
lacquerware being made. Alternatively, you
can hire a bicycle or horse-drawn cart and
explore this enchanting area on your own.
Mid-morning, Road To Mandalay begins its
cruise north towards Mandalay. Relax on the
top deck and watch the fascinating river life
glide by. Afternoon tea is served and an on-
board guide lectures on local places and
customs. The ship anchors mid-river for the
evening providing a marvellous opportunity to
observe the stars. A casual cocktail party is
followed by dinner on board.
Day 3 Mingun Enjoy breakfast on board
followed by a lecture in the Observation
Lounge. After lunch join our Chef on Top Deck
for a cookery demonstration while the ship
sails past the pagoda-topped hills of sagaing
and the busy river banks of Mandalay City.
The ship moors late afternoon, a perfect time
for disembarking for a tour of Mingun, home of
the world's largest uncracked bell and the
huge, earthquake-ruined pagoda of King
Bodawpaya. Dinner and local entertainment
on board.
Day 4 Maymyo After a short sail across the
river, Road To Mandalay moors at Mandalay
City. Disembark for a full day's excursion to
Maymyo, a colonial hill station set high in the
mountains. Soak up the atmosphere with its
cool climate, English style houses, colourful
market and beautiful botanic gardens. A
typical Shan lunch is taken at a colonial house.
Return to the ship for dinner and local
entertainment in the evening.
Day 5 Sagaing & Mandalay After breakfast,
enjoy an excursion to Sagaing Hills,
considered to be the living centre of the
Buddhist faith in Myanmar, and famous for its
silversmiths who still work in much the same
way as their ancestors did. Enjoy lunch back
on board while the ship cruises once more to
Mandalay. This afternoon, disembark for a
guided tour of all the major sites of this fabled
city. Return to Road To Mandalay for dinner
and local entertainment this evening.
Day 6 Burmese Village & Ava Join an early
morning walking tour of Shwe Kyet Yet village,
including alms-giving to the monks by the
ship's crew. Enjoy breakfast back on board
while the ship sails down to the ancient capital
of Ava. Disembark for a tour by traditional
horse and cart with 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 fascinating
local river life glide by from the top deck.
Afternoon tea is served and an on-board guide
lectures on local places and customs. This
evening enjoy a casual cocktail party followed
by dinner on board.
Day 7 Mount Popa A full day's excursion to
Mount Popa, a national park and believed to
be the sacred home of powerful 'Nats' (spirits).
On top of a rocky crag is a picturesque
complex of monasteries, pagodas and shrines
which can be reached via a winding, covered
walkway. Lunch is taken at the Mount Popa
Resort. Dinner and local entertainment on
board.
Day 8 Bagan After an early breakfast you are
transferred to Bagan airport for your onward
flight.
Prices from £1400 per person, based on twin
share.
AYEYARWADY ADVENTURE 7 NIGHT CRUISE
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118
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CHINA
119
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120 CHINA inspiredbyasia.co.uk
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China 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.
CHINA
CHINA 121
How to get thereThere are direct flights to Beijing andShanghai from the UK. All of China’smain cities are served by Cathay PacificAirways via Hong Kong with connectingflights on Dragonair. The flying time is11 hours.
Guide to the countryBeijing is a great starting point for yourChina experience. A dynamic andgrowing city, it offers a wealth ofhistorical attractions such as theimpressive Great Wall of China, thelabyrinthine Forbidden City and themagnificent Temple of Heaven. A stroll along Shanghai’s famousriverfront Bund shows the rapid pace atwhich this city is moving. Contrast theold-style Shanghai of Noel Coward withthe architecture of modern China andpay a visit to the Water Village atZhjiajiao near Shanghai. Away from thecities visit the Yangtze and Li Rivers forincredible gorge scenery and enjoy the views on a Three Gorgescruise, see the beautiful limestone peaks of Guilin and Yangshuothat seem to rise up out of the mist and take time to experience theChinese countryside with a walk or cycle ride. See the famousTerracotta Warriors at Xian, one of the country’s great sights.
It is possible to travel around Chinaindependently, however we wouldrecommend that you consider pre-booking an escorted tour; the English-speaking guide will be able to give you somuch more background to what you areseeing and will cover all the arrangementssuch as transport and accommodation.
When to goChina is a large country with a wide rangeof climatic conditions. Spring (April toMay) or autumn (September to October)are good months for travelling in comfort.Summer is from June to August and is hotthroughout the country and particularlyhumid in the south.This is also the period that experiencesthe most rain. Winter (November toMarch) sees very cold conditions (belowfreezing) in Beijing and the north, butcomparatively mild in the south.
Important to noteBritish passport holders must have a passport valid for six monthsfrom the last date of the trip. A visa is required and must beobtained well in advance from the Chinese embassy. Or call TheTravel Visa Company on 01270 250 590. The currency is Renminbi.For vaccination requirements please contact your local doctor.
CHINA AVERAGE MONTHLY TEMPERATURES AND RAINFALL (Temperatures in °Centigrade, Rainfall in millimetres)
Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
°C R °C R °C R °C R °C R °C R °C R °C R °C R °C R °C R °C RBeijing -5 3 -2 7 5 9 13 19 20 33 24 78 26 192 24 212 20 57 13 24 4 6 -3 3
Shanghai 4 44 5 62 8 78 14 106 19 123 23 159 28 134 28 126 24 150 18 50 12 49 6 41Hong Kong 17 27 17 44 19 75 23 140 27 298 28 399 29 371 29 377 28 297 26 119 22 38 18 25
INSPIRED BY ASIA
BEIJING ★
Hong Kong
Shanghai
Xian
Kunming
C H I N A
S O U T H C H I N A
S E A
E A S T
C H I N A
S E A
YELLOW
SEA
Guilin
IBA 2015 - 2ND DRAFT_Layout 1 13/08/2014 18:30 Page 121
122 CHINA
HIGHLIGHTS OF CHINA 10 Day Private Tour
Price includes•9 nights accommodation •Breakfast daily•Touring as shown•Beijing-Xian by overnight train •Flight Xian-Shanghai•English speaking guide
Day 1 Arrive Beijing Upon arrival in Beijing
you will be met and transferred to your hotel.
Accommodation: The Jian Guo Hotel for 3
nights
Day 2 Beijing Explore Beijing's fascinating
hutongs by rickshaw, visit the Forbidden City,
Tiananmen Square and the Drum Tower.
Day 3 Beijing See the magnificent Great Wall
of China at Mutianyu. Time to walk along the
wall and enjoy the views.
Day 4 Beijing See the iconic Temple of
Heaven and impressive Summer Palace.
Optional cruise on Kunming Lake. Then take
the overnight train to Xian. Travel is in first
class with soft sleeper four berth shared cabin.
Day 5 Xian Enjoy a tour of Xian, a culturally
important city. Accommodation: The Grand
Noble Hotel for 2 nights
Day 6 Xian The Terracotta Warriors are Xian’s
crowning glory. Enjoy a tour of this truly
remarkable sight.
Day 7 Shanghai Transfer to the airport this
morning for your flight to the next exciting
destination, Shanghai. Enjoy a tour of this
buzzing, contemporary metropolis.
Accommodation for 3 nights: The Bund Hotel
Day 8 Shanghai City tour of the main sights of
the city. In the evening witness the impressive
Chinese acrobats show.
Day 9 Shanghai Enjoy a walking tour through
the backstreets of the Chinese Old Quarter.
Time for shopping in the afternoon.
Day 10 Depart Shanghai Morning at leisure
before your transfer to the airport.
Prices from £1499 per person, based on twin
share.
inspiredbyasia.co.uk
BEIJING ★
C H I N A
Xian
Hong Kong
Start your journey in Beijing,
home to ancient traditions and
modern attractions. After
experiencing the Forbidden
City, Tiananmen Square and
beyond, take an overnight train
to Xian and discover the
Terracotta Warriors. Encounter
the bustling metropolis of
Shanghai.
Accommodation is in 4 star
hotels with breakfast included.
This is a private tour so there
are no set departure dates.
International flights are not
included.
Shanghai
IBA 2015 - 2ND DRAFT_Layout 1 13/08/2014 18:30 Page 122
CHINA 123INSPIRED BY ASIA
THE BEST OF CHINA 18 Day Private Tour
Price includes•14 nights’ accommodation•3 nights Yangtze cruise •Breakfast daily•Touring as shown•English-speaking guide•Train Beijing-Xian•Flights Xian-Guilin, Guilin-Chongqing,
Yichang-Shanghai
Day 1 Arrive Beijing Upon arrival in Beijing
you will be met and transferred to your hotel.
Tonight meet your tour leader (or local guide)
for welcome drinks and a tour briefing.
Hotel: The Jian Gou Hotel - 3 nights
Day 2 Beijing Explore Beijing's fascinating
hutongs by rickshaw, visit the Forbidden City,
Tiananmen Square and the Drum Tower.
Day 3 Beijing See the Great Wall at Mutianyu
with fewer tourists than other sites.
Day 4 Beijing Visit the Temple of Heaven,
Planning Exhibition Hall and Summer Palace
before taking the overnight train to Xian.
Day 5 Xian Met on arrival and enjoy a tour of
Xian. Hotel: The Grand Noble Hotel - 2 nights
Day 6 Xian The Terracotta Warriors are Xian’s
crowning glory. Enjoy a tour of this truly
remarkable sight.
Day 7 Xian to Guilin Fly to Guilin to climb
Fubo Hill and visit the Chinese Medicine
Institute. Hotel: Bravo Hotel - 2 nights
Day 8 Longsheng Visit the stunning rice
terraces and minority villages of Longsheng.
Day 9 Guilin to Yangshuo Take a river cruise
through the beautiful limestone mountains set
on the banks of the Li River, an inspiration to
poets and painters for centuries. Hotel: Ai
Yuan Hotel - 2 nights
Day 10 Yangshuo Cycle through Yangshuo's
verdant rice paddies and absorb this quaint
town's atmosphere and culture.
Day 11 Yangshuo to Yangtze River Start the
day with a relaxing tai chi lesson before flying
from Guilin to Chongqing to board your cruise
ship. Victoria Cruise ship- 3 nights
Days 12-13 Yangtze River Cruise away from
busy Chongqing and enjoy views of passing
boats and stunning gorges.
Day 14 Yangtze River to Shanghai The dam is
an incredible undertaking that will leave you in
awe. This morning, visit the Three Gorges Dam
Site on shore before disembarking from the
ship at Yichang and flying to Shanghai. Hotel:
The Bund Hotel - 4 nights
Day 15 Shanghai Experience the regal Bund,
Yu Gardens, Shanghai Museum and Urban
Planning Exhibition Centre.
Day 16 Shanghai Enjoy a day-trip to Zhujiajiao,
visit the Jade Buddha Temple and see a
spectacular acrobatics performance.
Day 17 Shanghai Visit the Propaganda Poster
Arts Centre, explore the Old Chinese Quarter.
Day 18 Depart Shanghai Today transfer from
your hotel to the airport for your onward flight.
Note: Cruise boats and itineraries may vary
due to weather conditions and water levels.
Prices from £2899 per person, based on twin-
share
BEIJING ★
C H I N A
Xian
Guilin
Yangshuo
Longsheng
Experience the dramatic
landscape of the Three Gorges
of the Yangtze River. Get to
know Beijing's secret hutongs,
Shanghai's modern treasures,
and spend time soaking up
the spectacular scenery in
Guilin and Longsheng.
Accommodation is in 4 star
hotels with breakfast
included. This is a private tour
so there are no set departure
dates. International flights are
not included.
Chongqing
ShanghaiYichang
IBA 2015 - 2ND DRAFT_Layout 1 13/08/2014 18:30 Page 123
124 CHINA
HONG KONG
Travel Hong Kong receives
direct flights 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
£33.
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 fishing 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 magnificent harbour brings you
to vibrant Kowloon, offering a fascinating
mix of streets, malls and markets.
inspiredbyasia.co.uk
1
2
3H O N G K O N G
Harbour CityShopping
Centre
VictoriaPark
Star FerryPier
4
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CHINA 125
HONG KONG Hotels
INSPIRED BY ASIA
Offer Receive 4 nights for the price of 3. Dates vary, call for details.
Prices from £66 per person per night, based on room only.
HARBOUR GRAND HONG KONG
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.
★★★★★1
KOWLOON SHANGRI-LA, HONG KONG
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 floor-to-ceiling bay window with
views of the city or harbour. Upgrade to the Horizon Club and benefit
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.
Prices from £126 per person per night, based on room only.
★★★★★2
METROPARK HOTEL CAUSEWAY BAY
Floor-to-ceiling windows feature throughout the 33 storey Metropark
Hotel, providing magnificent views of the famous Victoria Harbour and
Park. Located in Causeway Bay, one of Hong Kong’s leading shopping
and entertainment districts. Facilities include free wifi, 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.
Prices from £46 per person per night, based on room only.
★★★★3
HARBOUR GRAND KOWLOON
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, fitness centre, bar and a choice of six renowned restaurants.
Offer Free room upgrade for 3 night stays. Dates vary, call for details.
Prices £72 per person per night, based on room only.
★★★★★4
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SINGAPORE
1
S I N G A P O R E
Marina BayGolf Course
S E N T O S A
24
RafflesPlace
City Hall
National Museumand Art Gallery
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.
3
126
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SINGAPORE 127
SINGAPORE Hotels
TRADERS HOTEL, SINGAPORE
Traders Hotel, Singapore is located near the Botanic Gardens and the
fashionable Orchard Road shopping area and is connected to the Tanglin
Mall, offering an extensive range of shops, restaurants and bars. A free
shuttle bus within the city is provided. Facilities include a fitness centre
with a 24hr gymnasium, sauna, steam bath, massage, spa treatments,
heated whirlpool, a 30 metre outdoor swimming pool, children’s pool, a
bar and restaurants. Complimentary wired internet and Wi-Fi access.
Offer Receive 3 nights for the price of 2. Conditions apply. Call for details.
Prices from £97 per person per night including breakfast daily.
★★★★
INSPIRED BY ASIA
Offer Receive 4 nights for the price of 3. Offer dates vary, call for details.
Prices from £123 per person per night, based on room only.
SHANGRI-LA HOTEL, SINGAPORE
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 five-minute stroll from Orchard Road.
There are 747 luxury rooms and suites in three distinctive wings; the
contemporary Tower Wing, the newly renovated tropical Garden Wing
(pictured) and the exclusive Valley Wing. Facilities include free wi-fi, an
outdoor pool, 24hr gym, spa, sauna and choice of restaurants.
★★★★★1
3
PARK HOTEL CLARKE QUAY
The Park Hotel Clarke Quay is a stylish hotel located along the
picturesque Singapore River. Clarke Quay offers a superb location within
Singapore. Here you have a great range of restaurants, bars and the
walks alongside the river are memorable. A taxi to the Orchard Road
shopping area is a 10-minute journey. This 10-storey hotel offers 336
rooms which are small but cosy and well-appointed. Facilities include an
outdoor pool, tropical gardens, sun terrace, gym, bars and a restaurant.
Offer Receive 3 nights for the price of 2. Offer dates vary call for details.
Prices from £81 per person per night, based on room only.
★★★★4
Offer Bonus night offers. Dates vary call for details.
Prices from £82 per person per night, based on room only.
SWISSOTEL THE STAMFORD
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 five bars, two outdoor swimming pools, six
tennis courts, a spa and a state of the art fitness 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.
★★★★★2
IBA 2015 - 2ND DRAFT_Layout 1 13/08/2014 18:31 Page 127
JAPAN
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.
128
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THE BEST OF JAPAN 12 Day Independent Tour
Price includes•11 nights accommodation• Touring as shown• Public transport tickets as shown• 10 breakfasts, 4 dinners
Day 1 Arrive Tokyo Met on arrival and then a
shared shuttle bus to Tokyo for a 3 night stay.
Day 2 Tokyo tour Today you will take a full day
private tour of the city with a local guide,
travelling by public transport, as Tokyoites do,
in order to help you to get a real feel for
Japan's capital. This will be a fantastic
introduction to Tokyo and the chance to get a
personal insight not only into the classic sights,
but also into some more unusual and unique
features of the city. With a guide at your
disposal you are free to set the pace of the day
to be as busy or relaxed as you choose.
Day 3 Tokyo At leisure. We can pre-book an
excursion if you wish.
Day 4 Tokyo to Hakone via Mt Fiji Take the
train from Tokyo (Shinjuku) to Hakone Yumoto.
From Hakone you have one of the best
chances of getting a view of Mt Fuji from the
various view points to be found throughout the
area. Stay in a ryokan in Hakone for 2 nights.
Day 5 Hakone Day at leisure. Exploring the
Hakone region is a lot of fun, with a great mix
of scenery, culture and history.
Day 6 Hakone to Kyoto Taxi then travel by
train to Kyoto, changing at Odawara. Kyoto is
one of the most culturally rich cities in Asia.
Home to 17 UNESCO World Heritage sites,
over 1,600 Buddhist temples and 400 Shinto
shrines, this ancient city is the essence of
traditional Japan. Stay 3 nights in Kyoto.
Day 7 Kyoto tour A guided tour of Kyoto that
will encompass some of the more famous
sights but also some lesser known places of
interest.
Day 8 Kyoto Full day at leisure in Kyoto.
Day 9 Kyoto to Miyajima via Horoshima Travel
by train and ferry. Miyajima Island, located just
off the coast of Hiroshima, is one of Japan's
most loved places with a charming rural
atmosphere to match the beautiful scenery.
Stay for 2 nights in a family-run ryokan just a
short walk from the ferry pier.
Day 10 Miyajima Full day at leisure.
Day 11 Mijajima to Osaka Travel by ferry and
train to Osaka. This is Japan's second city and
an extremely vibrant and lively place to stay.
Overnight in Osaka for your final night.
Day 12 Depart Osaka Transfer to Kansai
Airport to complete your itinerary.
Prices per person, based on twin share from:
3-star £1799; 4-star £2450.
TOKYO★
J A P A N
KyotoHakone
Mt Fuji
P A C I F I C
O C E A N
S E A O F
J A P A N
JAPAN 129INSPIRED BY ASIA
A journey for those wanting to
experience the highlights of
Japan in under two weeks.
This is an independent tour so
you will travel by yourself using
the excellent public transport
system that Japan is famous
for. Tour includes some guided
tours with an English-speaking
guide. Choice of 3 or 4 star
accommodation.
Takayama
HiroshimaNara
IBA 2015 - 2ND DRAFT_Layout 1 13/08/2014 18:31 Page 129
130 inspiredbyasia.co.uk
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. One passport-sized photograph is
also required.
Vietnam British passport holders require a
visa to visit Vietnam and a visa must be
obtained before you depart the UK. Visas
take 6 working days to issue in Embassy,
although there is a 3 day express service.
Standard visas cost £55 and Express visas
cost £85. The Travel Visa Company service
charge for either visa is £40. You can apply
for a Vietnam visa up to 6 months before you
travel and they are issued for 30 days from
the specified date of entry. Please allow 10-
15 working days total processing time.
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 £15 and the Travel Visa Company
service charge is £45. 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 £66 and The Travel Visa
Company charge is £30. 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 £15, with
The Travel Visa Company service charge an
additional £44.
Important to note Please 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.
The Travel Visa Companycall 01270 250 590 or visit:
www.thetravelvisacompany.co.uk
YOUR VISA REQUIREMENTS
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.
IBA 2015 - 2ND DRAFT_Layout 1 13/08/2014 18:31 Page 130
2 Grove Park Court, Harrogate, North Yorkshire HG1 4DP
Telephone 01423 565111 www.inspiredbyasia.co.uk
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
BOOKING CONDITIONS
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 isfinancially protected, where you can get information on what this means for you and who to contact if things go wrong.
Brochure designed by Andrew Bogle. Printed by Focus All Media.
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 partythe terms of these booking conditions. A contract will exist as soon as we issue our confirmation invoice. This contractis made on the terms of these booking conditions, which are governed by English Law, and the jurisdiction of theEnglish 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 financial protection for our package holidays. When you buy an ATOL protected air holiday packagefrom us you will receive a Confirmation Invoice and an ATOL Certificate from us (or via our authorised agent throughwhich you booked) confirming your arrangements and your protection under our Air Travel Organiser’s Licence number2949. In the unlikely event of our insolvency, the CAA will ensure that you are not stranded abroad and will arrange torefund any money you have paid to us for an advance booking. For further information visit the ATOL website atwww.atol.org.uk When you buy a package holiday that doesn’t include a flight, protection is provided by way of a bondheld by ABTA, the Travel Association (ABTA Y1862). If you book arrangements other than a package from thisbrochure, 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 youby 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. Itprovides for a simple and inexpensive method of arbitration on documents alone with restricted liability on you in re-spect of costs. The scheme does not apply to claims for an amount greater than £5,000 per person. There is also alimit of £25,000 per booking. Neither does it apply to claims which are solely in respect of physical injury or illness ortheir consequences. The scheme can however deal with compensation claims which include an element of minor in-jury or illness subject to a limit of £1,500 on the amount the arbitrator can award per person in respect of this ele-ment. Your request for arbitration must be received by ABTA within eighteen months of the date of return fromholiday. Outside this time limit arbitration under the Scheme may still be available if we agree, but the ABTA Codedoes not require such agreement. For injury and illness claims, you can request the ABTA Mediation Procedure and wehave the option to agree to mediation Further information on the Code and ABTA’s assistance in resolving disputescan 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 arrange-ments that you wish to book before your contract is confirmed. 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 ex-tended overland tours, higher deposits may be required and you will be notified at the time of booking. The balance ofthe price of your travel arrangements must be paid at least 10 weeks before your departure date. If the deposit and/orbalance is not paid in time, we shall cancel your travel arrangements. If the balance is not paid in time we shall re-tain your deposit. All monies you pay to the travel agent are held by him on our behalf at all times. Prices in thebrochure were calculated using the following exchange rates as at 13 August 2014: THB 53.00, MYR 5.20, USD 1.68,SGD 2.00, HKD 12.20. Changes in transportation costs, including the cost of fuel, dues, taxes or fees chargeable forservices such as landing taxes or embarkation or disembarkation fees at ports and airports and exchange rates meanthat the price of your travel arrangements may change after you have booked. However there will be no change within30 days of your departure. We will absorb and you will not be charged for any increase equivalent to 2% of the priceof your travel arrangements, which excludes any amendment charges. You will be charged for the amount over andabove that. If this means that you have to pay an increase of more than 10% of the price of your travel arrange-ments, you will have the option of accepting a change to another holiday if we are able to offer one (if this is ofequivalent or higher quality you will not have to pay more but if it is of lower quality you will be refunded the differ-ence 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 dateprinted on your final invoice. Should the price of your arrangements go down due to the changes mentioned above, bymore than 2% of the total cost, then any refund due will be paid to you. However, please note that travel arrange-ments are not always purchased in local currency and some apparent changes have no impact on the price of yourtravel due to contractual and other protection in place.
5. If You Change Your BookingIf, after our confirmation invoice has been issued, you wish to change your travel arrangements in any way, for exampleyour chosen departure date or accommodation, we will do our utmost to make these changes but it may not always bepossible. Any request for changes to be made must be in writing from the person who made the booking or your travelagent. You will be asked to pay an administration charge of £30 per altered item, and any further cost we incur inmaking this alteration. You should be aware that these costs could increase the closer to the departure date thatchanges are made and you should contact us as soon as possible. Note: Certain travel arrangements (e.g. (but notlimited to) air tickets, accommodation, rail or touring products) may not be changeable after a reservation has beenmade 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 notification from the per-son who made the booking or your travel agent on your behalf must be received at our offices. Since we incur costs incancelling your travel arrangements, you will have to pay the applicable cancellation charges up to the maximumshown in clause 7. Note: if the reason for your cancellation is covered under the terms of your insurance policy, youmay 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 arrangementsmany 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 minimumnumber of clients required for a particular travel arrangement is not reached, we may have to cancel it. However, wewill not cancel your travel arrangements less than 10 weeks before your departure date, except for reasons of forcemajeure or failure by you to pay the final balance. If we are unable to provide the booked travel arrangements, youcan 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 tocancel your travel arrangements, we will pay to you compensation as set out in this clause. Any changes to the actualairline after you have received your tickets will be notified to you as soon as possible and in all cases at check-in orat the boarding gate. Such a change is deemed to be a minor change. Other examples of minor changes include al-teration of your outward/return flights by less than 12 hours, changes to aircraft type, change of accommodation toanother of the same standard. If we make a major change to your booking, we will inform you or your travel agent assoon as reasonably possible if there is time before your departure. You will have the choice of either accepting thechange of arrangements, accepting an offer of alternative travel arrangements of comparable standard from us ifavailable (we will refund any price difference if the alternative is of a lower value), or cancelling your booking and re-ceiving a full refund of all monies paid. In all cases, except where the major change arises due to reasons of forcemajeure, we will pay compensation as detailed below:*
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 notified of such fees before con-firming 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 travelarrangements 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, fire,adverse weather conditions, epidemics and pandemics, unavoidable technical problems with transport. In accordancewith EU Regulation 2111/2005 we are required to advise you of the actual carrier operating your flights.
8. If You Have A ComplaintIf you have a problem or any cause for complaint with your travel arrangements, please report it immediately directlyto 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 toresolve the matter to your satisfaction, please refer to your travel documents for our contact details. If your complaintcannot be resolved locally having reported it, you must inform our representative/agent in writing whilst overseas andfollow this up in writing to us within 28 days of your return home. If you fail to follow this procedure, we cannot acceptresponsibility for any problem or complaint that could have been rectified there and then had you notified us, thesupplier or our representative/agent at the time. For all problems or complaints, failure to comply with this proceduremay mean that your right to claim any compensation you may otherwise have been entitled to may be affected or lostas 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 ap-propriate compensation if this has affected the enjoyment of your travel arrangements. However we will not be liablewhere any failure in the performance of the contract is due to: you; or a third party unconnected with the provision ofthe travel arrangements and where the failure is unforeseeable or unavoidable; or unusual and unforeseeable cir-cumstances beyond our control, the consequences of which could not have been avoided even if all due care hadbeen exercised; or an event which we or our suppliers, even with all due care, could not foresee or forestall. Inspiredby Asia does not accept any liability for any services or facilities which your hotel or any other supplier agrees to pro-vide for you where the services or facilities are not advertised in our brochure and we have not agreed to arrangethem. Excursions or other tours that you may choose to book or pay for whilst you are on holiday are not part of yourpackage holiday provided by us. For any excursion or other tour that you book, your contract will be with the operatorof the excursion or tour and not with us. We are not responsible for the provision of the excursion or tour or for any-thing that happens during the course of its provision by the operator. Our liability, except in cases involving death, in-jury or illness, shall be limited to a maximum of two times the cost of your travel arrangements. Our liability will alsobe limited in accordance with and/or in an identical manner with any relevant international convention. You can askfor copies of the transport companies' contractual terms, or the international conventions, from our offices in Harro-gate. Under EU law (Regulation 261/2004) you have rights in some circumstances to refunds and/or compensationfrom your airline in cases of denied boarding, cancellation or delay to flights. Full details of these rights will be publi-cised at EU airports and will also be available from airlines. Your right to a refund and/or compensation from us isset out in clause 7. If any payments to you are due from us, any payment made to you by the airline will be deductedfrom 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 athird party unconnected with the provision of the services, or as a result of failures due to unusual and unforeseeablecircumstances beyond our control, the consequences of which could not have been avoided even if all due care hadbeen exercised, or an event which we or our suppliers, even with all due care, could not foresee or forestall, and yousuffer 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 airlinesmentioned herein or any airline whose services are used in the course of your travel arrangements. Please note that inaccordance with Air Navigation Orders in order to qualify for infant status, a child must be under 2 years of age onthe date of its return flight.
Published 25 August 2014. Prices valid from January 2015. Booking conditions valid from 1 September 2014.Registered Office Milton House, 33a Milton Road, Hampton, Middlesex TW12 2LL.
More than 56 days Nil Deposit Only Deposit Only56-43 days £20 Monies paid + £20 50% of holiday cost42-31 days £30 Monies paid + £30 75% of holiday cost30–0 days £50 Monies paid + £50 100% of holiday cost
IF WE MAKE A MAJORCHANGE TO YOUR HOLIDAY
Amount you willreceive from us
IF WE CANCELYOUR HOLIDAY
Amount you willreceive from us
IF YOU CANCELYOUR HOLIDAY
MAXIMUM amount ofcancellation charge*
Period before departurewithin which notice ofCancellation or majorchange is received byus or notified to you
Best Tour Operator 2014as voted by AITO Independent Travel Agents
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INSPIRED BY ASIA2 Grove Park Court, Harrogate, North Yorkshire HG1 4DP
Telephone 01423 565111 www.inspiredbyaustralasia.co.uk
Ask your travel agent for a copy of our Australia and New Zealand brochure.
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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15IN
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Best Tour Operator 2014as voted by AITO Independent Travel Agents
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