PEARLS OF INDOCHINA ACTIVE ADVENTURE

Transcription

1 PEARLS OF INDOCHINA ACTIVE ADVENTURE Visit us at

2 ITINERARY OVERVIEW Embark on an unforgettable crossing of Indochina on this active cultural, culinary, and outdoor exploration. Traverse the stunning landscapes of Laos, Cambodia, and Vietnam by boat, bicycle, elephant, and foot as you witness the region s rich history and natural beauty. Wander Angkor Wat at sunrise, cycle through the countryside of Hanoi, and cruise through the iconic limestone karsts of Ha Long Bay to observe one of the world s largest caves. Explore the colonial charm of Luang Prabang before getting your hands and feet dirty as you learn how to plant, grow, and harvest rice, Indochina s staple food. Meander south to relax in Pakse, southern Laos, where you ll explore coffee plantations alongside an expert guide and watch the sun dip down over the horizon as you glide across the surface of the Mekong River on a long-tail boat. On this active exploration of the pearls of Indochina, you ll discover the hidden, the classic, and the beautiful. DAY OVERNIGHT HOTEL HIGHLIGHTS 1 HANOI Silk Path Hotel Arrival meeting in airport and transfer to hotel. Walking tour of Hanoi 2 HANOI Silk Path Hotel Cycle through countryside 3 HALONG BAY Bhaya Cruise Ha Long Bay 4 HANOI Silk Path Hotel Ha Long Bay 5 LUANG PRABANG 3 Nagas Fly to Laos and transfer to hotel. Walking tour of Luang Prabang 6 LUANG PRABANG 3 Nagas Morning alms, half-day rice experience 7 LUANG PRABANG 3 Nagas Full day mahout training 8 PAKSE The River Resort 9 PAKSE The River Resort 10 SIEM REAP Viroth Hotel Fly to Pakse and transfer to hotel. Evening sunset cruise on the Mekong Bolaven Plateau coffee and waterfalls * Optional extension to Si Phan Don and overland trip to Cambodia Fly to Siem Reap and transfer to hotel. Mechrey Village on Tonle Sap lake, flooded forest tour, Angkor at sunset 11 SIEM REAP Viroth Hotel Cycle to Banteay Srei 12 DEPARTURE Angkor Wat, Ta Phrom. Transfer to airport for evening departure -2-

3 ITINERARY IN DETAIL DAY 1: ARRIVE IN HANOI Welcome to Vietnam! After transferring to your hotel, you ll explore Hanoi s historic Old Quarter, a maze of streets that dates back to the 13 th century. The Old Quarter is a vibrant hub of Hanoi, home to buzzing motorbikes, bicycles, and hawkers selling their wares; its chaos is an integral part of its charm. This bustling area of narrow streets is home to thousands of small businesses and shopkeepers. Keep your eye out for the best Vietnamese silk on Hang Gai street. Free afternoon (or an optional Vietnamese traditional water puppet performance). Overnight at Silk Path Hotel. DAY 2: CYCLING HANOI Smell incense burning in temples, listen to chickens squawking, and gaze at the modern architecture that rises next to ancient buildings hidden in back alleyways on a fascinating bicycle ride through Hanoi s countryside. Each of these places has a story to tell, be it legends from the past, the headlines of today, or promises for the future. On your bike, you ll become part of this fascinating, colorful, and quickly transforming urban landscape. Skillful and knowledgeable guides will accompany you while you cycle at a leisurely pace. Overnight at Silk Path Hotel. [BL] DAY 3: HALONG BAY Shuttle to UNESCO World Heritage Area Ha Long Bay, home to the world s largest marine karst landscape. Ha Long Bay s limestone karsts, rock formations dissolved into sinkholes and caves over time, are the product of over 20 million years of wear from the wet, tropical climate. Board a wooden junk built in the style of old Vietnamese court vessels (featuring sails, a wide transom, and a rectangular superstructure) to explore the bay s nearly 2,000 islets. Weave through the majestic bay to take in the grandeur of one of Vietnam s most celebrated destinations. Explore floating fishing villages, take a kayak out for a paddle, or swim in the bay s warm water. In the evening, participate in cooking demonstrations on deck, watch movies in the lounge, or fish for squid off the back of the junk. Overnight on Bhaya. [BLD] DAY 4: HALONG BAY Wake to the astonishing landscape of Ha Long Bay and participate in an optional tai chi lesson on deck. Take in breathtaking views of the bay as we cruise leisurely back to the harbor. We ll stop along the way to swim at a secluded island or explore one of the biggest caves in Ha Long Bay. After a morning of aquatic exploration, disembark for a shuttle back to your hotel in Hanoi, where you ll have a free afternoon. Overnight at Silk Path Hotel. [BLD] DAY 5: HANOI LUANG PRABANG Fly to Luang Prabang. Upon arrival, set out to explore the historic and charming city of Luang Prabang, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its harmonious blend of traditional Buddhist temples and French colonial architecture. Begin at WatXieng Thong, a 500-year-old temple that s considered a prime -3-

4 example of the classic Luang Prabang architectural style. Zigzag down small side streets, walk along back alleys, and stroll through temples as you soak up the ambiance and charm of the city. As you walk up the narrow peninsula upon which Luang Prabang sits, stop at temples and other sites that strike your interest. Discover relics from the Khmer Empire at the National Museum, site of the former Royal Palace. Laotian lore says that those who don t climb the 328 steps of Phousi Mountain haven t truly experienced the city. Venture up the mountain for stunning panoramic views of the city, the river, and the surrounding jungles. Overnight at 3 Nagas. [B] DAY 6: LUANG PRABANG Listen for the bells of the town's monasteries tolling at dawn, prompting golden lines of monks to emerge to receive their morning rice from the townspeople. Rise early to respectfully witness this sacred ritual as barefoot monks weave through the streets on their morning alms rounds. Visit the morning market for a firsthand look at the array of meats, vegetables, and spices that locals use in their cooking, then return to your hotel for breakfast. It s time to get your hands (and feet) dirty! Drive to the Living Rice Farm, a community enterprise that grows organic vegetables and rice. This farm works with and supports the local economy, funding education for children in the community. You ll stomp around barefoot in the farm s rice fields, learning about the complex process of growing and preparing rice a process that has 14 stages in all. Witness all the stages of rice farming, from planting and plowing (alongside trusty water buffalo Suzuki) to threshing and winnowing. Here, you ll witness an activity that is still very much a part of the daily life of many people in Indochina. Sample some delicious treats made of rice, which you re sure to appreciate more after seeing the work that goes into harvesting these tiny grains. Overnight at 3 Nagas. [BL] DAY 7: LUANG PRABANG Ma hout: noun: məˈhout: a person who works with, tends, and rides an elephant. Experience a day in the life of a mahout! You ll spend a full day working with and receiving training on the basics of the job at the Elephant Village - an elephant conservation and rehabilitation project. Ride through the jungle, learn the basics of controlling an elephant, bathe and swim with your pachyderm, and then finish off the day with a boat trip to the Tad Sae waterfall. Overnight at 3 Nagas [BL] DAY 8: LUANG PRABANG - PAKSE Fly to Pakse, Laos and transfer to your hotel. Sleepy, laid-back Pakse, the gateway to Si Phan Don and the Land of 4,000 Islands, sits at the confluence of the Mekong River and the Don River. Pakse is known for its river-town lethargic charm, and its appeal is perfectly epitomized by sipping a cold Beerlao on the riverfront and soaking up the relaxed vibe. In the evening, embark on a sunset cruise on the Mekong River with a sundowner in hand. Overnight at The River Resort. [B] DAY 9: BOLAVEN PLATEAU Head to the cooler highlands of the Bolaven Plateau, celebrated for its waterfalls and coffee plantations. Our first stop is at Jhai Coffee House, a philanthropic coffee roaster dedicated to producing high-quality -4-

5 fair trade beans and empowering local communities. Team up with one of Jhai s knowledgeable guides and take a morning tour of the plantations, warehouses, and villages that Jhai collaborates with. You ll get the chance to harvest beans, see the roasting process, and (of course) try a cup of freshly-brewed java (only available in the harvest season, October to March). After getting your coffee fix, drive to the majestic waterfalls of Tad Fane and Tad Yuang. The waterfall of Tad Fane cascades a spectacular 200 meters down a gorge in the middle of the Laos jungle. Lunch at the Tad Fane Ecoresort, a place that serves up delicious Laotian food in view of the sweeping falls. In the afternoon, continue on to the Khmer complex of Wat Phou, a temple complex that predates Angkor Wat and serves as a fascinating contrast to it. Return to The River Resort for a free evening. [BL] EXTENSION: If you have extra time, we highly recommended that you visit Si Phan Don, the Land of 4,000 Islands, and cross overland to Siem Reap. DAY 10: Si Phan Don, which literally means 4,000 islands, is a labyrinth of sandbars, islands, and inlets. Life here moves slowly and has remained the same for thousands of years, with locals coexisting with the Mekong. It s easy to understand the Mekong mentality as you float lazily in a boat through the archipelago. Leave Pakse and head to the village of Ban Nasasang, where you ll board a long-tail boat and sail the islands. Keep an eye out for the endangered Irrawaddy dolphin as you drift along. Disembark at Don Khon, a car-free island that s perfect for cycling. Check in to your floating villa and have the day free. If you d like, hop on a bicycle and pedal across the island to Li Phi Falls, considered one of the most spectacular waterfalls in southeast Asia. Relax at your hotel before embarking on an evening sunset cruise on the Mekong. Overnight at Sala Don Khon. [B] DAY 11: In the morning, leave the island by boat and return to Ban Nakasang, where your driver is waiting. Begin your journey south and stop to observe the waterfall of Khone Phapheng. From here, proceed to the Laos-Cambodia border. Cross the border and meet your Cambodian guide, who ll be waiting to pick you up in a private car for your transfer to Siem Reap (Drive time: 4 hours). Arrive in the late afternoon after an introduction to the Cambodian countryside s rice paddy fields, stilted homes, and friendly locals. You re free to ask your guide to stop at any time and explore areas of the countryside that few get to see. On arrival in Siem Reap, transfer to your hotel for a free afternoon. Overnight at Viroth Hotel. [BL] DAY 10: PAKSE- SIEM REAP Head to the airport for your flight to Siem Reap. On arrival, transfer to your hotel and settle in. Depart in the afternoon for the village of Mechrey on Tonle Sap Lake. En route, stop at Ampil Peam to stroll through a traditional village where locals live in much the same way they have for centuries. Continue to Mechrey, a small community on the Tonle Sap Lake that consists mainly of floating and stilted houses. Board a boat and explore the area by water for a fascinating excursion that includes a foray into the nearby flooded forest. Your guide will give you an inside look into the area s biodiversity and discuss the importance of the lake for the livelihood of thousands of locals. The lake, whose name means Great Lake, is a combined lake and river system whose flow changes direction twice a year, depending on the season. The lake has been declared a UNESCO biosphere, recognizing its great importance to the surrounding ecosystem. After a busy day exploring Tonle Sap, watch the sun dip low over the lake, returning to your hotel after dark. Overnight at Viroth Hotel. [B] -5-

6 DAY 11: BANTEAY SREI Cycle through lush rural countryside to the iconic temple of Banteay Srei, also known as the "Citadel of Women." This ancient temple s walls are dense with some of the most beautiful and intricate carvings of any Angkorian temple; legend has it that the carvings could only have been done by women s hands. The temple s relatively small size, pink sandstone walls, and ornate design give it a magical aura and a feeling that s distinct from other Khmer temples. Cycle further on rural roads to reach Kbal Spean, known as the Valley of 1,000 Lingas. You ll set your bikes aside for a moderate two-mile trek through the jungle to reach a series of carvings submerged in a riverbed. Break for lunch before returning to Siem Reap for a free evening. Overnight at Viroth Hotel. [BL] DAY 12: ANGKOR WAT - DEPARTURE Wake before sunrise to arrive at Angkor Wat, the largest and most breathtaking temple monument in Cambodia, before most other tour groups have arrived. You ll arrive at the vast complex of temples and boulevards as it emerges from the jungle in the serene light of dawn. The ancient capital of the Khmer empire, the Angkor complex is one of the largest archaeological sites in the world and was once ruled by warrior kings that dominated all of present-day Cambodia and much of Vietnam, Laos, Thailand, and Myanmar. With your guide, you ll explore the many different areas of this sprawling complex, getting an up-close view of the elaborate sculptural decorations and bas-reliefs of the complex. You ll have time to wander, contemplate, and photograph the site before returning to the hotel for breakfast. Return after breakfast and enter by the southern gate of Angkor Thom to see the complex network of temples of Bayon, Baphoun, Phimean Akas, the Royal Enclosure, the terraces of Elephants, and the Leper King. Drive to Ta Phrom, a jungle-clad temple that has been left in much the same condition in which it was found. Photogenic trees spiral out of the haunting, vine-clad ruins making for a truly unique experience that contrasts that of restored Angkor. In the afternoon, transfer to the airport for your flight home. [BL] END OF SERVICES Actual routes and activities may vary. Local trip coordinators reserve the right to change accommodations to similar quality alternatives. -6-

7 PRICING AND DATES: For current pricing please click here For scheduled departure dates please click here INCLUDED SERVICES Accommodations on twin share bed and breakfast basis as listed All meals according to itinerary [B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner] All transfers and transportation per the itinerary Guided tours and excursions including entrance fees per the itinerary Local on site guides in cities Assistance at airports/ hotels at the time of check in and check out at all major cities Wildland Adventures travel consultation and pre-departure services NOT INCLUDED SERVICES International or domestic airfare (listed separately) Vietnam Visa (payable upon arrival) Tips and gratuities Drinks, alcoholic beverages, and meals other than listed above Personal expenses for extra services, optional activities, or changes in your itinerary for reasons beyond our control Travel insurance for trip cancellation, medical services, or evacuation Any other items not mentioned above -7-

8 ACCOMMODATIONS SILK PATH HOTEL, HANOI Nestled in Hanoi s culturally rich Old Quarter, the Silk Path Hotel lies just minutes from Hoan Kiem Lake and Hanoi s shopping district. There s no better base from which to explore the city. All the rooms are designed in a contemporary theme and feature free wifi and safes. As soon as you walk out the door, you're surrounded by some of Hanoi's best restaurants. The hotel also features an in-house restaurant and spa. BHAYA CRUISE, HALONG BAY Sail in style on the Bhaya Cruise, a modern recreation of the traditional Vietnamese junk ship design that s been in use for thousands of years. The three-decked boat, adorned with bright, colorful sails, features rooms with private balconies, perfect for gazing onto the bay. Borrow kayaking or snorkel gear if you re interested in amping up the adventure on the cruise. 3 NAGAS HOTEL, LUANG PRABANG Located in Luang Prabang's Old Quarter, The 3 Nagas is a charming boutique hotel in walking distance of the city's major attractions that s the perfect place to savor the idyllic Lao lifestyle. The hotel also lies on the path of Luang Prabang s morning alms-giving procession. Housed in 3 restored UNESCO Heritage buildings, the hotel's 15 rooms blend contemporary style with historic architecture. The hotel s gorgeous courtyard garden lies beside the Nam Khan River. Don t miss the chance to dine at the on-site restaurant. -8-

9 THE RIVER RESORT, PAKSE Nestled between a former royal orchard and the Mekong River, this gorgeous resort features eco-friendly construction and practices: the resort s furniture made in traditional Lao style with local bamboo, the rice paddy and vegetable gardens are cultivated with matter from the compost, and the kitchens use solar heating. Each of the 14 Deluxe RiverFront Rooms has extraordinary, panoramic Mekong River views from the bedroom. There s also free wifi, an infinity pool, complimentary bicycles, and a spa. VIROTH S HOTEL, SIEM REAP Featuring spacious rooms and suites, centrally-located Viroth s Hotel is located in the vibrant Wat Bo area. The hotel is a short walk to the center of Siem Reap. Rooms feature modern décor with private terraces, wifi, and views of the garden or pool. Viroth s also has a spa, gym, bar, and library. -9-

10 BOOKING YOUR WILDLAND ADVENTURE HOW TO RESERVE A TRIP You can book online using our Reserve a Trip form or by calling Your space on a trip is confirmed once we receive your reservation form and initial trip deposit. All travelers must sign and submit a Release of Liability. Deposit requirements are as follows:* $500 per person for all trips in Central America. $700 per person for all trips in South America, the Middle East, Asia and the Far East, the Mediterranean and North America. 20% of land cost for all trips in Africa. This deposit is generally non-refundable. *Some trips require additional non-refundable deposits, especially when yachts have been chartered, or if permits to visit archaeological or wildlife sites have been purchased in advance. CUSTOM TRAVEL This trip isn t exactly what you re looking for? We are happy to design a private custom itinerary to accommodate your travel dates, interests and style of accommodations. Call us at , send an to info@wildland.com, or use the Ask The Program Director button on the trip itinerary page on our website. PAYMENTS, CANCELLATIONS AND REFUNDS Full payment of the trip balance is due 90 days prior to departure. If you must cancel before departure, money will be returned less the cancellation fees charged by WA Inc. plus any additional non-refundable cancellation fees and payments already advanced to airlines, hotels and local operators: Days Prior to Departure: Fee per person 91 or more: $ days: Initial deposit amount days: 50% of land cost 30 or less: 100% of land cost PRE-DEPARTURE SERVICES Upon receipt of your deposit and completed reservation form, we will send you a comprehensive Predeparture Dossier. This contains important information to help you prepare including immunizations, visas, trip insurance, packing checklist, reading list, maps, cross-cultural information, optional trip extensions and more. You will receive a final trip packet including Final Reminders and local contact information in your destination 2-3 weeks prior to departure. REFERENCES AND QUESTIONS Have any questions or concerns? Call us a or info@wildland.com. We re here to help and are happy to provide you with references from previous Wildland travelers. TERMS AND CONDITIONS: Wildland Adventures, Inc. has arranged your trip utilizing the travel services of local in-country ground operators who are independent contractors. These local outfitters, lodges, hotels and other suppliers of your travel services will make every effort to conduct this trip as described in the itinerary; however, it is possible that due to transportation schedule changes, weather, delays and unforeseeable acts of God, humans or nature, this itinerary may vary from what is described. Participants must assume all risks whether identified in advance or unforeseen. All optional activities are at your own risk. Extra costs due to unexpected changes in your itinerary for reasons beyond our control are not included. We highly recommend purchasing traveler s insurance for trip delay, trip cancellation, baggage, accident or sickness. Representatives are available for assistance at any time during your trip. If preferred hotels are not available, every attempt will be made to reserve alternative accommodations of similar quality (if upgrade is necessary, higher rates may apply). All information and services provided are subject to our Terms and Conditions. -10-