small group adventure tours to south east asia

Transcription

gecko travel
small group adventure tours
to south east asia
the south east asia
18
Laos
“Northern Laos &
The Golden Triangle”
About us
19
Thailand & Laos
“Emerald Triangle”
6&7
Our tours
8&9
Thailand
“Northern Mountains, Southern
Beaches”
20 & 21 Malaysia
“Coast to Coast”
2
Index and contact details
3
Map of S. E. Asia
4&5
10
Thailand
“Jungles & Islands”
11
Thailand
“Reefs & Rainforests”
12
13
Thailand
“Southern Explorer”
Thailand
“Hills of Mae Charim”
14 & 15 Thailand, Laos & Cambodia
“Indochina Adventure”
16
Thailand & Cambodia
“Ruined Cities, Tropical Islands”
17
Cambodia
“Cambodia Overland”
Contact us
Tel: +44 (0)23 9225 8859
Fax: +44 (0)23 9225 9121
Email: [email protected]
Web-site: www.geckotravel.com
22
Malaysia
“West Coast explorer”
23
Vietnam
“Mountains and Hilltribes”
24 & 25 Vietnam
“Hanoi to Saigon”
26 & 27 Sri Lanka
“Ceylon Adventure”
28
Family tours
29
Beach and Island extensions
30
Extensions & city breaks
31
Hotels
32
General Information
33
Feedback page
34
Climate information
35
Booking details
Write to:
Gecko Travel, Hidden Places Adventure
Tours Ltd.
94 Old Manor Way, Portsmouth PO6 2NL
United Kingdom
We are working with the Foreign and Commonwealth
Office to do all that we can to help British travellers stay
safe overseas. Before you go overseas, check out the
FCO web site at www.fco.gov.uk/knowbeforeyougo.
Air Travel Organisers’ Licensing
The air holidays shown are ATOL protected by the Civil Aviation Authority.
Our ATOL number is ATOL 5318. ATOL protection extends primarily to
customers who book and pay in the United Kingdom. If you want to know
more, please visit the ATOL website at www.atol.org.uk
2
specialists
3
about us
“Gecko Travel are the Thailand specialists. If anyone can
show you the real Thailand, Gecko Travel can”.
Richard Hume
Director of Marketing (UK), Tourism Authority of Thailand.
Gecko Travel is an independent, fully
licensed, UK based tour operator. Our
holidays are protected by the UK Civil
Aviation Authority’s ATOL, (Air Travel
Organisers’ License # 5318), and we
work in close co-operation with the
Foreign and Commonwealth Office with
regards up to date safety information
concerning all destinations visited.
Our aim is to provide guided, small group
adventure tours for those who wish to
discover the real South East Asia, away
from the traditional ‘package group’ trails
and high-rise, overdeveloped resorts.
Extensive knowledge of the region
enables us to offer original tour itineraries
providing a balance between the wellknown ‘must-sees’ and the off-thebeaten-track, ‘best kept secrets’.
Gecko Travel tours will give a real insight
into the countries you are visiting –
culture, history, landscapes and natural
world – and provide the opportunity for
genuine interaction with the local people.
Great care is also taken to ensure that
our practices in Southeast Asia not only
provide exciting and memorable holidays
for those who travel with us, but that
they make positive contributions to the
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region as well. Respect for local peoples;
their cultures, traditions, religion and
environment are essential to our
philosophy and tours and we work hard
to ensure our groups have a positive
impact on the places and peoples
visited.
On our tours we will stay in smaller,
family-run hotels and guesthouses as
much as possible and eat in local
restaurants. All guides, drivers and local
agents employed are considered friends
rather than ‘business contacts’ – the
intention being that you will visit as
guests rather than tourists and travel as
a bunch of friends rather than a typical
tour-group, so don’t expect stick on
name badges or any following of
umbrellas around!
A maximum group size of 9 persons
means genuinely small groups.
Experience has taught us that smaller
groups are less intrusive to local cultures
and environments whilst allowing more
interaction with local people. Furthermore
it allows for greater flexibility on a day-today basis and on a social level proves to
be more fun. Try being ‘low-key’ in a hilltribe village or spotting any wildlife with
15 other people around.
Your holiday adventure will combine these exotic destinations with this wide range
of exciting activities, whilst still allowing ample time to relax and unwind.
Please note all activities can be tailored to meet most abilities or fitness levels and
none are ever compulsory. Alternatives can be offered during the tour to anyone not
wishing to participate in a certain activity.
thailand
cambodia
malaysia
laos
sri lanka
Some activities
vietnam
Some sights
tropical rainforests
coral fringed islands
mist shrouded mountains
mangrove swamps
lotus covered lakes
fabulous temples
ruined cities
remote hill-tribe villages
cool hill-stations
Some destinations
Bangkok
Penang
Hanoi
Angkor
Kandy
Chiang Mai
Phnom Penh
Kuala Lumpur
Golden Triangle
Hue
Luang Prabang
Saigon
tea plantations
spectacular waterfalls
exotic markets
mysterious caves
national parks
fabulous wildlife
unspoilt beaches
jungle trekking
night hikes
city tours
white-water rafting
bamboo rafting
snorkelling
scuba diving
swimming
canoeing
tubing
boat trips
bird watching
kayaking
elephant riding
exploring caves
cycling
camping
homestays
jeep safaris
karaoke bars
railway journeys
local food
cooking
shopping
nightlife
wildlife
spa and massage
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our tours
Tour leaders
An English speaking, Gecko Travel tourleader will accompany the tour at all
times. In addition, local guides will
accompany the group for such activities
as trekking, rafting etc.
All our tour-leaders either live in, or have
travelled extensively in the region and are
there to share their knowledge and love
for South East Asia with you.
Accommodation
Tour costs are based on 2 persons
sharing. To ensure there are no single
person supplements if you are travelling
on your own we arrange for you to share
with someone of the same sex. In certain
places single room upgrades may be
available but they are generally paid for
locally unless prior arrangements have
been made.
Rooms are normally air-conditioned with
private bathrooms but neither can be
guaranteed.
However please note that because we go
off the beaten track certain places you
will stay in, particularly hill-tribe villages
and ‘homestays’ may be quite basic.
Whilst fish is an important part of most
South East Asian diets, vegetarian
options are easily arranged – please feel
free to discuss this or any other dietary
requirements you may have prior to
your trip.
Please note that Western style 3 course
dinners are not typical of the region and
are not budgeted for in the tours.
Transport
Our standard form of transport will be
air-conditioned minivans but be prepared
for anything...local buses, trains, pick-up
trucks, speedboats, slow boats and
where time and distance give us no
choice, flights.
Who travels with us?
Young or old? A desire for adventure is
more important than age, which so far
has ranged from 2 to 75!
Male or female? More or less a
50 – 50 split.
Also note that camping is frequently in
the jungle, not on camp-sites and
facilities may be correspondingly
primitive.
Singles or couples? Again about half and
half.
Food
Nationalities? Mainly UK, US and
Western Europe but also countries as
wide spread as China, Mexico and
Hungary.
Unless otherwise specified all our tours
are inclusive of 3 meals per day. Our
tour-leaders are knowledgeable of local
food and we hope that a ‘guided tour’ of
the highly varied regional cuisines will be
an integral part of your experience. In
certain places Western food options may
be available but usually South East Asian
cooking proves to be one of the
highlights of the tour.
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Meals are generally eaten together,
family style, and in pre-selected, tried
and trusted restaurants, though a certain
degree of flexibility is maintained.
Note that no supplement is charged for
persons travelling on their own.
Fitness
Family tours
Super-fit or couch potato? Doesn’t matter
– all our activities can be tailored to suit
any fitness level. And alternatives are
always available for anyone not wishing
to participate in any particular activity.
SE Asia and our itineraries lend
themselves to family travel - the wide
range of activities, friendly people and
high standards of food hygiene are
ideal for those families who want
more out of their holidays than just
sun and sea.
The idea behind our treks and hikes is to
appreciate the scenery, reach sites not
otherwise accessible and to discover the
fantastic local flora and fauna – not
merely walking for walking’s sake.
What your
holiday includes
Full board including 3 meals a day unless
otherwise specified.
All accommodation, as per itineraries,
based on 2 person sharing.
All activities and entrance fees detailed.
Services of a Gecko Travel tour-leader at
all times and of local guides where
appropriate.
All transport, including local and
domestic flights as described in the
itineraries.
Direct return flights from London to
South East Asia. (Non-flight options are
also available.) Please ask for information
on departures from other cities in the
UK/Eire if required.
What is not included
Visas where applicable (see page 32),
local airport departure taxes, alcoholic or
soft drinks with meals, any drinks or
snacks outside of designated meal times,
personal laundry, tips.
We adapt itineraries to the needs of
individual families and provide a local
speaking tour leader to take the
effort out of your travels. This
enables you to get off the beaten
track and ensures genuine
interaction with local people. Please
see our family holiday section on
page 28 for more information.
Hotels
Please note that apart from
accompanied tours, hotel and resort
reservations are available throughout
SE Asia. (See page 31)
Flights
Tours can be taken with or without
flights from the UK and both prices
are given. Where flights are taken, we
are able to offer a high degree of
flexibility of dates and from regional
airports. Persons joining us in SE
Asia do so on day 2 and leave on the
penultimate evening of the itineraries.
If you are purchasing your flights
through us, please ask about flights
from regional UK airports or any
special offers which airlines may
have.
Tailor made options
In addition to our scheduled tours we
also offer tailor-made or ‘a la carte’
options for groups, clubs, families and
so-on. These may be a re-arrangement
of existing itineraries for time
considerations or choice of destination or
in order to create a special interest slant.
Tailor-made itineraries and tours are
generally available for minimum group
sizes of 4 persons.
Please contact us with your request or
enquiries.
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21 days, 20 nights - all year round
thailand
northern mountains, southern beaches
Ideal for the first time visitor:
offering an excellent
introduction to diverse
Thailand, from the remote
forest clad mountains of the
North to the reef fringed
tropical islands of the South,
from hill-tribe villages lost in
the mountains to the vibrant
capital Bangkok.
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Highlights:
• Deserted beaches
• White-water rafting
• Elephant riding
• Overnight in tribal village
• Kayaking
• Jungle trekking
• Chiang Mai
• Canoeing in mangrove
swamps
• Bangkok’s palaces and
temples
• Snorkelling on coral reefs
• Thai food
Day 1 Departure from London.
Day 2 Morning arrival in Bangkok - meet
your tour leader and transfer to a
downtown hotel in the City’s
Banglamphu district. Afternoon to relax,
explore the area or check out some local
markets.
Day 3 City tour with a difference! Central
Bangkok by riverboat, skytrain, tuk-tuk
and canal boat. Stop-offs including the
Grand Palace and fabulous Wat Phra
Keow - “Temple of the Emerald Buddha”.
Day 4 Morning departure by train;
across the Central Plains and their
emerald green rice paddies, to upcountry Phitsanolok town - the Gateway
to the North. Lunch time arrival and
transfer to nearby Sukhothai town with
the afternoon to relax in our guesthouse
garden or explore the local markets.
Day 5 Bicycle tour of the nearby, ancient
city of Sukhothai - former capital of Siam
- which, with it’s crumbling sandstone
temples, towering Buddha statues and
lotus-covered ponds, is one of the
country’s most sacred and evocative
sites.
Day 6 Complete our northwards journey
with a morning ride to remote Nan near
the Lao border. This charming, town, well
off the beaten tourist trail, was an
independent city-state until 1931 when it
was finally incorporated into the
Kingdom of Siam.
Days 7,8 & 9 A unique three day
experience trekking through the dramatic
jungle clad mountains bordering Laos.
Travelling by jeep and on foot we’ll spend
the first night as guests of a Hmong
family in a tribal village and the second in
chalets on the banks of the scenic Wa
River. A white-water descent of the river
and elephant ride on the final day
complete the expedition. Return to Nan
town on the evening of the day 9.
Day 10 Scenic drive to Chiang Mai with
the afternoon free to explore the town’s
quiet lanes and picturesque temples.
Evening tour of the famous night bazaar.
Day 11 Morning at leisure then time to
head south with a flight to Bangkok
where we’ll connect with the night
sleeper train for Nakhorn Si Thammarat.
Day 12 Afternoon to discover this
southern town’s bustling markets and
temples or checkout some of the local
handicrafts.
Day 13 Excursion to Khao Luang
National Park, site of the dramatic
Kharom Waterfall - one of the highest
and most spectacular in SE Asia.
Bathing, hiking and scrambling up the
falls!
Fitness: moderate - maximum hiking approx. 6-7 hours on day 8. Rafting on
day 9 - medium (grade 3).
Accommodation: hotel, guesthouse, hilltribe village, raft house, beach chalets.
Transport: boat, minibus, bicycle, train,
pick-up truck, internal flights.
Cost: ex London from £1,600,
ex Bangkok from £1,050.
Day 14 On to Thale Noi Bird Sanctuary
in Phattalung Province - one of the
region’s most important water-bird sites where we’ll travel by boat through the
atmospheric marshes and lily-covered
lakes. Continue via the cave temples of
Wat Tham Sumano to Trang Town on the
Andaman Sea coast.
Day 15 One day jungle expedition to
Ban-Traat Mountain. Trek through the
rainforest, bathe in mountain streams
and visit a Sakai settlement - a huntergatherer, jungle dwelling people. (Note
the Sakai are nomadic people and their
presence at all times of year can’t be
guaranteed.)
Day 16 Head for the coast to Ban Chao
Mai National Park where we’ll canoe
through mangrove swamps and along
underground streams to visit the
spectacular and mysterious, sacred sea
caves. Afternoon transfer to Koh Libong
Island for accommodation at a beachside
resort.
Day 17 Leisurely day on this tranquil
island; make the most of the turquoise
waters and sandy beaches, sling a
hammock between a couple of palm
trees or visit the local fishing village.
Day 18 Boat tour through the
spectacular scenery of Chao Mai
National Marine Park, snorkel and swim
on the archipelago’s vibrant coral reefs.
Day 19 Morning at leisure to explore the
island or top up your suntan, before
returning to Trang.
Day 20 Cook your own lunch with a
half-day Thai cookery lesson in a local
restaurant including a fascinating guided
tour of the local market. Evening flight
from Krabi to London via Bangkok.
Day 21 Morning arrival in London.
Note: this tour if offered with or without return flights from London. Persons not
wishing to take up the flight option will join the tour on day 2 in Bangkok and depart
in Bangkok on day 20.
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thailand
jungles & islands
Highlights:
• Jungle trekking
• Elephant riding
• Kayaking on the River Kwai
• Canoeing through mangrove
swamps
• Exploring caves, deserted
beaches
• Bamboo or white-water rafting
(depending on water levels)
• Bangkok’s temples and
palaces
• Thai food
A taste of the diversity of Thailand: from the vibrant metropolis of Bangkok
to remote, hill-tribe villages, dense rainforests to deserted beaches and
from riding elephants through the jungle to snorkelling on coral reefs.
your tour-leader and transfer to a
downtown hotel. Afternoon tour of some
of the City’s sites including the Grand
Palace and fabulous Wat Phra Keow ‘Temple of the Emerald Buddha’.
Day 3 Leaving the Capital we’ll journey
by local train to Kanchanaburi Province,
across the historic ‘Bridge on the River
Kwai’ and along the infamous ‘Death
Railway’ towards the remote town of
Sangklaburi on the Burmese border.
Lakeside accommodation at the small,
family-run ‘Burmese Inn’.
Day 4 Check out the sights and markets
of this fascinating frontier town with its
bewildering mix of Thais, Burmese and
Karens, Indian and Chinese traders and
Mon refugees from across the border,
including a boat tour of the lake to see
the region’s distinctive floating villages.
Day 5 An exploration of part of the
nearby World Heritage Site of Thung Yai
Wildlife Reserve, including a jungle trek,
rafting and bathing in mountain streams.
Day 6 Departure by local bus for
Kanchanaburi with the afternoon free to
discover some of this historic town’s
sites and museums. Accommodation in
floating raft houses on the River Kwai.
Day 7 An expedition down the junglelined river with a choice of kayaks or 2
person canoes for the uninitiated. Picnic
lunch on the riverbanks, elephant riding
and return to Kanchanaburi.
Day 8 Morning free to explore the area,
cycle around town, try a Thai massage or
relax by the river before catching the
evening sleeper train to the southern city
of Phattalung.
Day 9 Visit Thale Noi Bird Sanctuary one of SE Asia’s most important
waterfowl sites - where we’ll travel by
boat through the vast marshes and
atmospheric lotus-covered lakes. In the
afternoon we’ll continue via the cave
temples of Wat Tham Sumano to Trang
Town on the Andaman Coast.
Day 10 One day jungle expedition to
Ban-Traat Mountain. Trek through the
guaranteed.)
Day 11 Head for the coast, to Chao Mai
National Park, and canoe through
mangrove swamps and along
caves. Afternoon transfer to nearby Koh
Libong Island for accommodation in
beachside chalets.
Day 12 Leisurely day on this picturesque,
unspoilt island - make the most of the
turquoise waters and quiet beaches; sling
a hammock between a couple of palm
Day 13 Boat tour through the
spectacular scenery of Chao Mai
National Marine Park - swim and snorkel
on the archipelago’s vibrant coral reefs.
Day 14 Morning on the island topping
up your suntan, before transferring to
Krabi for an evening flight to London via
Bangkok.*
Fitness: moderate - maximum trekking
around 4-5 hours on day 5.
Accommodation: hotel, guesthouse,
floating raft house, beach chalet.
Transport: minibus, train, boat,
elephant, local bus, pick-up truck, flight.
ex Bangkok from £850.
*Note: a variety of beach/island extensions are available throughout the year as well
as, between October and March, scuba diving ‘liveaboards’ in the Andaman Sea.
Note: this tour is offered with or without return flights from London. Those not
wishing to take up the flight option should join the tour in Bangkok on day 2 of the
itinerary and finish in Bangkok on day 14.
Note; during the May to September period we vary this tour to avoid the western
monsoons and move our beach and snorkelling activities to Koh Thalu Island on the
more sheltered Gulf of Thailand coast. Please contact us for further details.
10
thailand
reefs & rainforests
A exploration of South and Central Thailand: high mountains, steamy
jungles, tropical islands, coral reefs, exotic temples and spicy curries
- discover the fantastic sites, spectacular scenery and friendly
people on this 2 week journey through these rarely visited parts of
the Thai peninsular.
downtown hotel. Afternoon tour of some
of the City sites including the Grand
Palace and spectacular Wat Phra Keow ‘Temple of the Emerald Buddha’.
Days 9 & 10 2 day exploration of the
park including canoeing, a boat trip on
the lake, elephant riding and jungle
hiking, with plenty of time to relax, splash
around in the streams and waterfalls or
just kick back in your chalet and admire
the fabulous tropical flora and fauna.
Day 3 Departure for the historic town of
Phetchaburi at the northern limit of the
Peninsula. Visit the fascinating Khao
Wang Palace and park with its colony of
monkeys before continuing to Kaeng
Krachan National Park for our night’s
accommodation as guests of lakeside
villagers.
Day 11 Off to the Andaman Sea Coast
for a short transfer by boat to Pha Nga
Province’s Koh Kha Khao Island. The
beaches, forest and mangroves of this
secluded, unspoilt island, as well as its
nearby coral reefs are home to plentiful
wildlife. Stay in a beachside resort in
comfortable wooden chalets.
Days 4 & 5 Two-day trek through the
pristine rainforest and stunning scenery
of Thailand’s largest National Park.
Check out the amazing flora and fauna,
by day and by night and camp overnight
in the forest. (The exact itinerary to be
decided prior to trekking after
consultations with the local guides.)
Return to Phetchaburi in the evening of
day 5.
Day 12 Half-day boat tour - visit some
of the surrounding islands and swim and
snorkel on the coral reefs.
Day 6 Continue south to Chumporn for
2 night’s accommodation at a small,
lakeside, family run resort hidden deep in
the province’s mountainous interior.
Highlights:
• Kaeng Krachan National Park
• Village homestay
• Jungle trekking
• Deserted beaches
• Camping in the jungle
• Waterfalls
• Khao Sok National Park
• Elephant riding
• Kayaking
• Bamboo or white-water rafting
(depending on water levels)
• Palaces and temples
• Thai food
Day 13 At leisure - relax on the beach or
explore some of the island’s hiking trails.
Day 14 Morning to top up your suntan and an afternoon transfer to nearby
Phuket Town for a return flight to
London, via Bangkok.
Fitness level: easy to moderate maximum trekking is around 5-6 hrs
on day 4.
Day 7 Discover the area; hike in the
forest, bathe in waterfalls and a rafting
trip down the scenic Pha To River.
homestay, jungle lodge, tent or
hammock, beach chalets.
Day 8 On to Khao Sok in Surat Thani
Province - acknowledged as one of
Thailand’s most spectacular National
Parks with its dramatic limestone karst
scenery, lakes, waterfalls and lush jungle.
Transport: minibus, pick-up truck,
boat, domestic flight.
Note; during the May to September period we vary this tour to avoid the western
monsoons and move our beach and snorkelling activities to Koh Thalu Island the
more sheltered Gulf of Thailand coast. Please contact us for further details.
wishing to take up the flight option should join the tour in Bangkok on day two of
the itinerary and leave in Bangkok on day 14.
11
thailand
southern explorer
Highlights:
• Jungle trekking
• Canoeing in mangrove
swamps
• Snorkelling on coral reefs,
deserted beaches
• Cooking lesson
• Thai food
An ‘off-the-beaten-track’ view of Southern Thailand beginning with
a visit to the little known Khao Luang National Park and spectacular
Kharom Falls of Nakhon Si Thammarat Province, followed by an
exploration of the mountains, jungle and caves of Trang before
finishing the tour on the unspoilt tropical island of Koh Libong in the
Andaman Sea.
Day 1 Departure from London
Day 2 Morning arrival in Bangkok and
transfer to a downtown hotel in the City’s
markets and an evening departure by
night train to Nakorn Si Thammarat.
(Note a range of pre-tour Bangkok
accommodation and extensions are
available.)
Day 3 Afternoon to discover this
southern town’s bustling markets and
temples or checkout some of the local
handicrafts.
Day 4 Excursion to Khao Luang National
Park, site of the dramatic Kharom
Waterfall - one of the highest and most
spectacular in SE Asia. Bathing, hiking
and scrambling up the falls!
Day 5 On to Thale Noi Bird Sanctuary in
Phattalung Province - one of the region’s
most important water-bird sites - where
we’ll travel by boat through the
atmospheric marshes and lily-covered
lakes. Continue via the cave temples of
Wat Tham Sumano to Trang Town on the
Andaman Sea coast.
Day 6 One day jungle expedition to BanTraat Mountain. Trek through the
guaranteed.)
Day 7 Head for the coast to Ban Chao
Mai National Park where we’ll canoe
through mangrove swamps and along
caves. Afternoon transfer to Koh Libong
Island for accommodation at a beachside
resort.
Day 8 Leisurely day on this tranquil
island; make the most of the turquoise
waters and sandy beaches, sling a
hammock between a couple of palm
Day 9 Boat tour through the spectacular
scenery of Chao Mai National Marine
Park, snorkel and swim on the
archipelago’s vibrant coral reefs.
island or top up your suntan, before
returning to Trang.
Day 11 Cook your own lunch with a
half-day Thai cookery lesson in a local
restaurant including a fascinating guided
tour of the local market. Evening flight
from Krabi to London via Bangkok.*
Fitness: moderate - maximum hiking approx. 4-5 hours on day 6.
beach chalet.
Transport: boat, minibus, pick-up
truck, internal flight.
*Note: a variety of beach/island extensions are available throughout the year as well
as, between October and March, scuba diving ‘liveaboards’ in the Andaman Sea.
itinerary.
Note; during the April to September period we vary this tour to avoid the western
monsoons and move our beach and snorkelling activities to Chumporn Province on
the more sheltered Gulf of Thailand coast.
12
thailand
the hills of mae charim
The delights of Thailand’s
beaches and islands are world
renowned - these mist
shrouded mountains and lush
forests of the far North are still
waiting to be discovered.
Beginning in Bangkok we’ll
travel to Kanchanaburi and the
River Kwai before heading
North via the ruined ancient
Siamese Capital of Sukhothai
to remote Nan Province on the
Lao border to trek and raft
through spectacular Mae
Charim National Park.
your tour leader and transfer to a
downtown hotel in the City’s
markets.
Bangkok by riverboat, skytrain, tuk-tuk
and canal boat. Stop-offs including the
Grand Palace and fabulous Wat Phra
Keow - “Temple of the Emerald Buddha”.
Day 4 Morning departure by train;
across the Central Plains and their
emerald green rice paddies, to upcountry Phitsanolok town - the Gateway
to the North. Lunch time arrival and
transfer to nearby Sukhothai town with
the afternoon to relax in our guesthouse
garden or explore the local markets.
Day 5 Bicycle tour of the nearby, ancient
city of Sukhothai - former capital of Siam
- which, with it’s crumbling sandstone
temples, towering Buddha statues and
lotus-covered ponds, is one of the
country’s most sacred and evocative
sites.
Day 6 Complete our northwards journey
with a morning ride to remote Nan near
the Lao border. This charming, town, well
off the beaten tourist trail, was an
independent city-state until 1931 when it
was finally incorporated into the
Kingdom of Siam.
Days 7,8 & 9 A unique three day
experience trekking through the dramatic
jungle clad mountains bordering Laos.
Travelling by jeep and on foot we’ll spend
the first night as guests of a Hmong
family in a tribal village and the second in
chalets on the banks of the scenic Wa
River. A white-water descent of the river
and elephant ride on the final day
Fitness: moderate, maximum hiking
6-7 hours on day 8. Rafting on day 9
- medium (grade 3).
Accommodation: hotel, hill-tribe
village, chalet
Transport: minibus, pick-up truck,
flight.
Highlights:
• Elephant riding
• White-water rafting
• Overnight in tribal village
• Jungle trekking
• Chiang Mai
• Bangkok’s palaces and temples
• Ruins of Sukhothai
• Thai food
complete the expedition. Return to Nan
town on the evening of the day 9.
Day 10 Scenic drive to Chiang Mai with
the afternoon free to explore the town’s
quiet lanes and picturesque temples.
Evening tour of the famous night bazaar.
Day 11 Morning at leisure then time to
head south with a return flight to London
via Bangkok.*
Day 12 Arrival in London.
*Note: extensions available for
Chiang Mai including cookery classes
and Spa stays.
Note: this tour if offered with or
without return flights from London.
Persons not wishing to take up the
flight option will join the tour on day 2
in Bangkok and depart in Bangkok on
day 20.
13
cambodia & laos
indochina adventure
Highlights:
• Golden Triangle
• Mekong River trip
• World Heritage Luang
Prabang
• Phnom Penh
• Vang Vieng
• Angkor Wat
• local food
14
We begin our journey in Thailand’s infamous Golden Triangle, where
the frontiers of Burma, Thailand and the Lao Peoples Democratic
Republic meet. From there you’ll travel by boat down the Mekong
River, through Laos’ unspoilt mountains and jungles to the ancient
capital - now World Heritage Site - Luang Prabang.
After exploring the beautiful temples and colonial architecture of
what is acknowledged to be the best preserved city in SE Asia,
the itinerary takes you to the contrasting, contemporary capitals of
sleepy Vientiane and bustling Phnom Penh, before climaxing with
a 3 day visit to the fabulous, ancient imperial capital of the
Khmer empire - Angkor Wat - one of the seven wonders of the
modern world.
transfer by Thai Airways to Chiang Mai,
the cultural and historical capital of
Northern Thailand. Afternoon free to relax
or explore this charming, friendly city and
an evening tour of the famous ‘nightbazaar’.
Day 3 Head north to the small town of
Chiang Khong on the banks of the
Mekong - accommodation in a quiet,
family-run, guesthouse overlooking the
river.
Day 4 Tour of the infamous Golden
Triangle region, following the banks of
the Mekong north through the historic,
ruined city of Chiang Saen, to the
fascinating town of Sob Ruak at the
‘junction’ of Burma, Laos and Thailand.
Day 5 Cross the Mekong River to HuayXai - our entry point for the Lao People’s
Democratic Republic. Afternoon trip to
explore the surrounding area and visit a
nearby ‘hill-tribe’ village. Accommodation
in local-style, wooden chalets.
Day 6 Charter a boat for a journey down
the Mekong, one of the worlds’s last
remaining untamed rivers, winding
through mountains and pristine forests to
the ancient Lao capital of Luang
Prabang. (Either speed boat or ‘slow’
boat depending upon weather conditions
and number of passengers.)
Days 7 & 8 Nestled in the mountains,
long isolated from the outside world - the
first ‘sealed’ road to the city being
completed only 5 years ago - we’ll
discover World Heritage Site, Luang
Prabang’s fabulous temples, taste Lao
delicacies (and the famous Lao beer!) in
riverside cafes and stay in a converted
French colonial villa.
Day 9 One day trek through the
surrounding hills to visit the spectacular
Kuang Si Waterfalls and to discover the
fascinating, traditional village life of some
of the local peoples.
Day 10 Morning bus journey over the
spectacular central highlands to the
small town of Vang Vieng - situated in a
narrow, scenic valley and surrounded by
dramatic, limestone escarpments. Free
afternoon.
Day 11 Day kayaking trip in this
picturesque setting including a chance to
explore some of the region’s mysterious,
limestone cave formations.
Day 12 Morning transfer by local bus to
the Lao capital of Vientiane and
afternoon of some of the City’s
fascinating sites; markets, temples and
museums.
Accommodation: hotel, chalet and
guesthouse.
Transport: minibus, boat, local bus,
pick-up truck, regional international flight.
Fitness: easy to moderate - max trekking
4-5 hrs on day 9.
Day 13 Flight to Phnom Penh and
check-in to a small, comfortable,
downtown hotel close to the historic
riverfront quarter. Afternoon introductory
walking tour including the Grand Palace
and Silver Pagoda.
Day 14 Day tour of some of the sites of
Cambodia’s capital city including the
Russian Market, the tragic ‘Killing Fields’
site and an opportunity to see how
Cambodians are attempting to come to
terms with their recent history with a visit
to the Khmer Rouge Genocide Museum
at Tuol Sleng.
Day 15 Travel up the Tonle Sap River to
the small provincial town of Siem Reap in
Western Cambodia - our base for the
next few days and the ‘jumping off point’
for the nearby Angkor temple complex.
(Journey by boat or road depending on
weather conditions) Sunset visit to the
jungle clad ruins of Ta Prom Temple.
Days 16 & 17 Angkor - an unforgettable
two-day tour of this fabulous site - its
ruined palaces and vast jungle clad
temples - words can’t do it justice - see
it for yourself! A comprehensive tour of
the major sites, including sunrise and
sunset visits.
Day 18 Free morning in Siem Reap:
explore the market or visit the handicraft
school and an afternoon trip to one of
the remoter temple sites such as Banteay
Srei.
Day 19 Overland through the scenic
Cambodian countryside to the Thai
border at Poipet and on to Bangkok.
Day 20 At leisure in Bangkok - relaxing
or last minute shopping with an evening
departure for London.
Note: this tour is offered with or without return flights from London. Persons not
taking up the flight option should join the tour in Chiang Mai on day 2 of the
itinerary and leave in Bangkok on day 20. Bangkok to Chiang Mai tickets are
included in the price of your tour and will be forwarded to you prior to departure.
Note: a variety of extensions in Chiang Mai before, and Bangkok after the tour are
available.
15
cambodia & thailand
ruined cities, tropical islands
Highlights:
• Phnom Penh
• Cambodian river trip
• Angkor Wat
• Jungle hike
• Hill resort
Cambodia - this charming, though little known, South East Asian country is
now opening up slowly to the outside world. Discover its friendly people,
serene landscapes and fascinating, if sometimes tragic history.
Explore the bustling, present day capital of Phnom Penh and the ancient
Khmer imperial city of Angkor Wat, acknowledged as one of the seven
wonders of the modern world, before travelling overland to Thailand and
the tropical island of Koh Chang. Relaxing in a Thai hill-resort, trekking
through the island’s pristine rainforest and snorkelling on the archipelago’s
vibrant coral reefs are some of the activities on offer as well as, and not
least, checking-out just how comfortable those hammocks really are.
• Elephant riding
• Local food
Day 2 Morning arrival in Phnom Penh,
via Bangkok and check-in to a small,
comfortable, downtown hotel close to
the historic riverbank quarter. Time to
relax and an afternoon walk taking in the
Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda.
Cambodia’s capital city; the `Russian`
market, the infamous ‘Killing Fields’ site
and the highly moving Khmer Rouge
Genocide Museum at Tuol Sleng.
next few days and ‘jumping off point’ for
the nearby Angkor Temple complex.
atmospheric ruins of Ta Prom.
Days 5 and 6 Angkor - an unforgettable
it for yourself!
explore the market, checkout the
handicraft school and an afternoon trip
to one of the remoter Angkor sites such
as Banteay Srei.
Day 8 Overland to Poipet on the Thai
border and on to Thailand’s nearby
Chantaburi Province.
Day 9 Recover from Cambodian roads
in the beautiful setting of a small Thai
hill resort. Visit to the local market and
afternoon hike to Soi Dao Waterfall in
nearby Soi Dao National Park.
Day 10 Continue south to the tropical
island of Koh Chang where we’ll stay in
wooden, beachside chalets.
Day 11 Leisurely day on the island;
make the most of the turquoise waters
and coconut-palm lined beaches, try out
a beach massage or for the energetic explore the island!
Day 12 A boat tour through the
surrounding archipelago including
swimming and snorkelling on some of
the vibrant, colourful coral reefs.
Day 13 Venture into the mountainous
interior for an elephant ride and visit to
the ‘Ban Kwang Camp’ - established in
co-operation with the Asian Elephant
Foundation. Afternoon at leisure.
Day 14 Morning on the island to relax or
top up your suntan before returning to
Bangkok for evening flight to London.
Fitness: easy - several hours walking
on days 5 & 6 during the temple tour.
Accommodation: hotels,
guesthouses, beachside chalets.
Transport: flight, boat, pick-up truck,
minibus.
Note: This tour is offered with or without a return flight from London. Persons not
itinerary.
Note: scuba diving extensions are available on Koh Chang during the November to
April period.
16
cambodia
overland phnom penh to bangkok
This tour takes you overland from Cambodia‚s bustling and
fascinating capital Phnom Penh to the fabulous ruined Khmer
cities of Angkor, one of the 7 wonders of the world, before
travelling overland to our final destination the vibrant,
Thai capital of Bangkok.
Highlights:
• Angkor Wat
• Phnom Penh
• Cambodian River journey
• Bangkok
• South East Asian food
Day 2 Morning arrival in Phnom Penh,
via Bangkok and check-in to a small,
comfortable, downtown hotel close to
the historic riverbank quarter. Time to
relax and an afternoon walk taking in the
Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda.
Cambodia’s capital city; the `Russian`
market, the infamous ‘Killing Fields’ site
and the highly moving Khmer Rouge
Genocide Museum at Tuol Sleng.
next few days and ‘jumping off point’ for
the nearby Angkor Temple complex.
atmospheric ruins of Ta Prom.
Days 5 and 6 Angkor - an unforgettable
it for yourself!
explore the market, checkout the
handicraft school and an afternoon trip
to one of the remoter Angkor sites such
as Banteay Srei.
Day 8 Overland through the scenic
Cambodian countryside to the Thai
border at Poipet and on to Bangkok.
Day 9 At leisure in Bangkok - relaxing or
last minute shopping with an evening
departure for London.
Accommodation: hotel and
guesthouse.
pick-up truck, flight.
Fitness: easy - maximum hiking 3-4
hrs per day during the Angkor visit.
Notes: extra accommodation in
Bangkok or beach/island extensions
are available for those wishing to
prolong this trip.
17
13* days, 13 nights - all year round
laos
northern laos & the golden triangle
Highlights:
• Golden Triangle tour
• Mekong River
• Jungle trekking
• Temples and colonial
architecture of World Heritage
Luang Prabang
• Vientiane
• Vang Vieng
• Thai and Lao food
An introduction to this fascinating and little known country. Beginning in
Thailand’s infamous Golden Triangle we’ll travel down the Mekong River,
through Laos’ unspoilt mountains and jungles to the ancient capital, now
World Heritage Site, Luang Prabang.
After exploring the beautiful temples and colonial architecture of what is
acknowledged to be the best preserved city in SE Asia, the itinerary takes
you over the dramatic central highlands of Laos to the present day capital
of Vientiane.
Day 1 Depart London Heathrow Airport.
transfer by Thai Airways to Chiang Mai, the
cultural and historical capital of Northern
Thailand. Afternoon free to relax or explore
this charming, friendly city and an evening
tour of the famous ‘night-bazaar’.
Day 3 Head north to the small town of
Chiang Khong on the banks of the Mekong
- accommodation in a quiet, family-run,
guesthouse overlooking the river.
Day 4 Tour of the infamous Golden
Triangle region, following the banks of
the Mekong north through the historic,
ruined city of Chiang Saen, to the
fascinating town of Sob Ruak at the
‘junction’ of Burma, Laos and Thailand.
Day 5 Cross the Mekong River to HuayXai - our entry point for the Lao People’s
Democratic Republic. Afternoon trip to
explore the surrounding area and visit a
nearby ‘hill-tribe’ village. Accommodation
in local-style, wooden chalets.
Day 6 Charter a boat for a journey down
the Mekong, one of the world’s last
remaining untamed rivers, winding
through mountains and pristine forests to
the ancient Lao capital of Luang
Prabang. (Either speedboat or ‘slow’
boat depending upon weather conditions
and number of passengers.)
Fitness: easy to moderate – maximum
hiking approx. 4-5 hrs on day 9.
Accommodation: hotel and
guesthouse.
tuk-tuk, pick-up truck, regional
international flight.
18
Days 7 & 8 Nestled in the mountains,
long isolated from the outside world - the
first ‘sealed’ road to the city being
completed only 5 years ago - we’ll
discover World Heritage Site, Luang
Prabang’s fabulous temples, taste Lao
delicacies (and the famous Lao beer!) in
riverside cafes and stay in a converted
French colonial villa.
Notes: various extension options are
available in Chiang Mai prior to or
Bangkok after the tour.
Day 9 One day trek through the
surrounding hills to visit the spectacular
Kuang Si Waterfalls and to discover the
fascinating, traditional village life of some
of the local peoples.
Day 10 Morning bus journey over the
spectacular central highlands to the
small town of Vang Vieng - situated in a
narrow, scenic valley and surrounded by
dramatic, limestone escarpments.
Afternoon free to relax by the river or visit
the town.
Day 11 Day kayaking trip in this
picturesque setting including a chance to
explore some of the region’s mysterious,
limestone cave formations.
Day 12 Morning transfer by local bus to
the Lao capital of Vientiane and
afternoon of some of the City’s
fascinating sites; markets, temples and
museums.
Day 13 Return flight to London, via
Bangkok. *(This will be either an afternoon
departure arriving in the evening of day 13 in
London or a night departure arriving early morning
of the 14th depending upon availability.)
16 days, 15 nights – all year round
laos & thailand
the emerald triangle
Explore the rarely visited Emerald Triangle region where the borders of
Thailand, Laos and Cambodia meet.
This adventure tour will take you through Eastern Thailand into the far south
of Laos to discover the stunning ‘4,000 islands’ region, where the Mekong
River cascades into Cambodia over a series of spectacular falls. From here
we’ll continue eastwards over the Boloven Plateau to remote Attapeu
Province to visit the infamous Ho Chi Minh Trail and trek through the jungle
to minority hill-tribe villages.
Day 1 Depart from London
Day 2 Morning arrival in Bangkok, meet
centrally located hotel. Afternoon to relax
or explore the area.
Bangkok by ‘public transport’; riverboat,
skytrain, tuk-tuk and canal boat. On the
way stop-offs to take in the Grand
Palace, Wat Phra Keow, (temple of the
Emerald Buddha), Wat Pho and time to
relax in Lumphini Park. In the evening
we’ll board the night sleeper train for
Eastern Thailand.
Day 4 Exploration of the Emerald
Triangle region beginning with the
spectacular mountain-top Khmer ruins of
Preah Viharn, lying just over the border in
Cambodia. We’ll then return to the Thai
side and follow the border Eastwards
until we reach our day’s destination - the
small town of Khong Jiam on the banks
of the Mekong overlooking Laos.
Day 5 Head north up river by boat to
visit the prehistoric rock paintings and
unusual rock formations of Pha Taem
National Park.
Day 6 Time to cross into Lao and travel
south to the ‘4,000 islands’ - a stretch of
the Mekong River of outstanding natural
beauty straddling the Lao/Cambodian
border.
Day 7 Explore some of the islands by
boat and on foot, visit SE Asia’s largest
waterfalls - the spectacular Khon
Phapaeng Falls - and with luck catch a
glimpse of some of the rare freshwater
dolphins which still inhabit this stretch of
the river.
Day 8 Free day to relax on the islands or
hike to discover some of the local
scenery and villages.
Day 9 Travel north along the banks of
the Mekong to the small town of
Champassak, stopping off at Keitngong
village for an elephant trek to some
nearby Khmer ruins.
Day 10 Morning trip to the UNESCO
World Heritage Site of Wat Phu - a preAngkor, Khmer temple dramatically
situated on a mountain slope overlooking
the valley of the Mekong. Afternoon to
relax in our riverside guesthouse or
check-out a local market.
Highlights:
• Cambodia’s Preah Viharn
Temple
• Laos’ World Heritage Wat Phu
• Thailand’s Pha Taem National
Park
• South East Asia’s largest
waterfall
• The ‘4,000 Islands’
• Trekking to minority villages
• Elephant riding
• Boat trip on the Sekong River
• Ho Chi Minh Trail
• Local food
Day 11 Transfer across the Boloven
Plateau to the Sekong River, where we’ll
travel by boat through limestone gorges
to our final destination, the remote town
of Attapeu.
Day 12 This rarely visited region lies
close to the Vietnamese and Cambodian
borders and the infamous Ho Chi Minh
Trail will be one of the sights on a day
tour of the area. Exact itinerary will
depend on weather and road conditions.
Day 13 Day trek into the surrounding
jungles to visit some of the minority
‘montagnard’ tribes who still inhabit the
region.
Day 14 Drive back across the Boloven
Plateau, home to numerous ethnic
minorities and centre of Lao’s coffee
growing industry, to Pakse on the banks
of the Mekong. Afternoon to explore this
bustling port town.
Day 15 Afternoon departure by road to
Ubon Ratchathani in Thailand for an
evening return flight to London, via
Bangkok.
Fitness: easy to moderate – max.
Trekking c. 4- 5 hrs on day 13.
Accommodation: hotel, guesthouse.
Transport: train, flight, bus, boat, tuktuk, elephant.
Note: Day 15 of this itinerary ends in Pakse from where you have the choice of returning
to Bangkok or flying to Phnom Penh to connect to our 8 day ‘Cambodia Overland’ trip.
19
17 days, 16 nights - March to Sept.
malaysia
coast to coast
Highlights:
• Historic Georgetown
• Penang Hill
• Lake Temengor
• Jungle flora and fauna
• Tropical islands
• Trek in Kenong Rimba
• Kula Lumpur
• Malaysian food
From our starting point in the historic, port of
Georgetown on the west coast, we’ll venture
into the rarely visited interior of the Malay
peninsula - still covered by vast expanses of
dense, jungle and inhabited by hunter-gatherer
tribes - and stay in bamboo, beachside chalets
on coral-fringed islands off the east coast, for a
genuine, ‘off-the-beaten-track’ look at this
fascinating and surprisingly little known
country.
Discover a vibrant mix of cultures: spectacular
and varied scenery, exotic flora and fauna,
delicious local food and plenty of friendly
people.
Winner of the ‘Best Escorted Tour’ category at
the Malaysian Travel awards, London 2003
20
Day 1 Departure from London for
Penang Island, via Kuala Lumpur.
Day 2 Arrival at Penang and transfer to a
Chinatown hotel in the heart of old
Georgetown. Afternoon to relax, or
explore this fascinating historical town.
Day 3 Chinatown tour in collaboration
with the ‘Penang Heritage Trust’:
temples, Chinese clan houses and British
colonial period architecture.
Day 4 Visit Penang Hill with its Victorian
era cable car and spectacular canopy
walkway and hike down the forested
slopes to the famous Botanical Gardens.
Day 5 Head off into the interior, through
the jungle-clad, highlands to tranquil
Banding Island in Temengor Lake.
Accommodation at a beautifully situated,
lakeside resort.
Days 6 & 7 2 day expedition into the
surrounding Belum Forest, trek through
pristine rainforest to mountain streams
and waterfalls, visit a village of the
indigenous, forest-dwelling Orang Asli
tribe, an exciting night hike through the
forest and camping overnight in the
jungle. With luck we’ll see monkeys and
maybe even elephants - spectacular
scenery guaranteed!
Day 8 Transfer to Kota Baru on the East
Coast - renowned as the centre of Malay,
Muslim culture. Evening tour of the
colourful and bustling night-market.
Day 9 Off to the jungle-clad and coralfringed paradise of the Perehentian
Islands. Lunchtime arrival and free
afternoon. Tourism is still relatively
undeveloped in these islands and we’ll
be staying in simple, but comfortable
beachside, wooden chalets.
Day 10 A snorkelling tour of some of the
vibrant coral reefs that surround the
island. Surrounded by myriad colourful
fish you’ll swim with baby reef sharks
and giant turtles.
Day 11 Day exploring the island: into the
jungle interior to check out the
prehistoric looking, giant monitor lizards
that roam the islands and visits to some
of the remoter bays and creeks.
Day 12 Head south to the small town of
Kuala Lipis in the centre of the peninsula.
This now quaint backwater was an
important administrative centre and
rubber producing town during the
colonial era.
Day 13 Leave by local train for a day trip
to the little known Kenong Rimba Forest
Reserve, where we’ll trek through dense
jungle, discover the amazing tropical
flora and fauna, visit some of the area’s
unusual limestone cave formations and
return in the evening to Kuala Lipis by
riverboat.
Day 14 Continue south by local bus to
Kuala Lumpur, where we’ll stay in the
Capital’s bustling Chinatown quarter.
the fascinating Malaysian capital: Little
India, the fabulous Victorian era
architecture of Merdaka Square and the
Central Mosque.
Day 16 Morning to relax or an
opportunity for some last minute
shopping before an evening return flight
to London.
Fitness: moderate, maximum trekking
around 5hrs on day 13.
Accommodation: hotel, resort,
guesthouse, jungle camp, beach
chalet.
train, internal flight.
ex Penang from £925.
Note: This tour is offered with or without return flights from London. Those not
wishing to take up the flight option should join the tour on day 2 of the itinerary in
Penang and finish on day 16 in Kuala Lumpur.
Note: inexpensive scuba diving options are available on the Perhentian Islands.
21
17 days, 16 nights - October to April
malaysia
west coast explorer
Highlights:
• Historic Georgetown
• Penang Hill
• Lake Temengor
• Jungle flora and fauna
• Langkawi
• Kayaking in mangrove
swamps
• Cameron Highlands
• Kuala Lumpur
• Malaysian food
A seasonal variant on our award winning Coast to Coast itinerary
includes the scenic Cameron Highlands hill station with it’s lush,
tropical mountain forests and picturesque tea plantations and a
3 day stay at a secluded beach resort on Malaysia’s west coast
island of Langkawi.
Day 2 Arrive in Kuala Lumpur and
transfer to our hotel in the heart of the
City’s Chinatown district. Afternoon to
relax or explore the area with its lively
markets.
Day 3 Walking tour of some of the sites
of the fascinating Malaysian capital
including the fabulous Victorian era
architecture of Merdeka Square, the
National Mosque and Little India.
Day 4 Head North to the Cameron
Highlands - Malaya’s foremost hill-station
during the British rule and now a
picturesque area of tea plantations,
spectacular scenery and mountain vistas.
Afternoon at leisure to explore the area
or just relax in the garden and take in the
stunning views.
Day 5 Hike through the surrounding
forests to discover the lush tropical flora
and fauna of the region - giant tree ferns,
moss forests and myriad colourful birds.
Day 6 A chance to explore the sculpted,
hilltop tea plantations and sample a local
brew, before an afternoon visit to the
local Butterfly Farm.
Day 7 Head deeper into the interior,
through the jungle-clad highlands to
tranquil Banding Island on Temengor
Lake. Accommodation at a beautifully
situated, lakeside resort.
Days 8 & 9 2 day expedition into the
surrounding Belum Forest: kayak across
the lake, trek through pristine rainforest
to mountain streams and waterfalls, visit
a village of the indigenous, forestdwelling Orang Asli people, an exciting
night hike and camping overnight in the
jungle. With luck we’ll see monkeys and
elephants - spectacular scenery
guaranteed.
Day 10 Head back to the West coast
and Penang. Check-in to our hotel in the
heart of old Georgetown with the
afternoon at leisure to relax, or explore
this historic town.
22
Day 11 Walking tour of Georgetown in
collaboration with the ‘Penang Heritage
Trust’: temples, Chinese clan houses and
British, colonial period architecture.
Day 12 A visit to Penang Hill with its
Victorian era cable car, elegant gardens
and residences and spectacular canopy
walkway, before hiking down the forested
slopes to the City’s famous Botanical
Gardens.
Day 13 On to Tanjung Sanctuary, your
little bit of paradise on tropical island of
Langkawi. Free afternoon at this scenic
beach side location where you’ll stay in
attractive wooden chalets set in a
secluded bay.
Day 14 Spend the morning relaxing on
the beach before an afternoon kayaking
trip amongst the dramatic, limestone
cliffs and mangrove swamps on the north
of the island.
Day 15 A visit to the jungle-clad heart of
Langkawi with a chance to swing
amongst the trees, Tarzan style, on the
“Flying Fox” trip and hike through the
lush rainforest. Evening tour of one of the
island’s colourful, bustling night-markets.
Day 16 Morning to relax on the beach or
an opportunity for some last minute
shopping before an evening return flight
to London.
Fitness: moderate, maximum trekking
around 5-6hrs on day 5.
Accommodation: hotel, resort,
guesthouse, jungle camp, chalet.
Transport: minibus, boat,
ex Kuala Lumpur from £875.
Note: This tour is offered with or
without return flights from London.
Those not wishing to take up the flight
option should join the tour on day 2 of
the itinerary in Kuala Lumpur and finish
on day 16 in Kuala Lumpur.
16 days, 15 nights – Oct. to July
vietnam
mountains & hilltribes
Discover Vietnam’s elegant
capital Hanoi with its tree-lined
boulevards and French colonial
architecture. Journey to the
remote, rarely visited North West
of the country - a mountainous
area of outstanding natural
beauty, inhabited by a myriad of
colourfully dressed ‘hill-tribe’
peoples - where we’ll trek through
the spectacular scenery, visit
traditional villages and stay in the
delightful old French hill-station of
Sapa. A 2 day trip to the coast for
an exploration of World Heritage
Site, Halong Bay completes this
varied and fascinating tour of
Northern Vietnam.
Day 1 Departure from London for Hanoi
via Bangkok.
Day 2 Arrival in Hanoi and check-in to a
downtown hotel. Afternoon free to relax
or explore the city.
Day 3 Day tour of the city: including Ho
Chi Minh’s mausoleum, the 11th century
university, Hoan Kiem Lake and a
walking tour of the narrow streets of
Hanoi’s bustling old commercial quarter.
In the evening catch a performance of
the highly original water-puppets.
Day 4 Head North West through
spectacular scenery to Son La district,
with a stop-off to visit a traditional ‘Black
Tai’ village - just one of the many ethnic
groups inhabiting this mountainous
region.
Day 5 Morning walking tour of Son La
including the Hill-tribe museum and
French penitentiary before continuing
through some even more dramatic
scenery to the remote town of Dien Bien
Phu on the Lao border. Now a quiet,
provincial backwater and colourful
market centre for the surrounding
‘montagnard’ peoples, in 1954 this
isolated valley was the site of the
catastrophic French defeat that lead to
the end of their rule in Indochina.
Day 6 Walking tour of the museum and
key sites of the battlefield with an
afternoon hike into the surrounding hills
to visit a spectacular waterfall.
Day 7 Time to explore Dien Bien Phu’s
lively market and on to Lai Chau - a tiny,
isolated and rarely visited town, lying in a
beautiful valley close to the borders of
Laos and China.
Day 8 Explore the area by boat and on
foot - discover the stunning landscapes
of emerald green paddy fields ringed by
jagged mountain scenery, the lush flora
and the traditional way of life of the local
hill-tribe people.
Day 9 Our next leg takes us over the high
mountain ranges along the Chinese border,
culminating in Tram Ton Pass before
descending to our destination of Sapa.
This picturesque old French hill-station
overlooking a spectacular valley, lies in the
shadow of the mist shrouded Fansipan
Mountain - at over 9,500ft the highest
summit in mainland South East Asia.
Days 10 & 11 Trek through the area’s
incredible scenery - known to the French
as the Tonkinese Alps - terraced rice
paddies, lush forest, towering peaks and
crystal clear waterfalls. Overnight in a
Hmong or Dsay tribal village. Return to
Sapa in the afternoon of day 11.
town, roam the bustling hilltribe market
or simply sit back on your balcony and
admire the view. Late afternoon transfer
to nearby Lao Cai town for the night
sleeper train to Hanoi.
Day 13 Morning arrival in Hanoi and on
via the port of Haiphong to Cat Ba Island
in Halong Bay. Afternoon to explore the
small port town, swim, or visit the nearby
Cat Ba National Park.
Day 14 Day boat trip through the
incredible scenery of World Natural
Heritage Site, Halong Bay, with stop-offs
for swimming and cave visits before
returning to Hanoi in the evening.
Day 15 A chance for some last minute
shopping or time to explore some more
of the city before an evening departure
for London.
Highlights:
• Hanoi
• Spectacular mountain
scenery
• Boat trip on the Da River
• Sapa hill-station
• Trekking
• Halong Bay
• Hill-tribe villages
• Cat Ba Island
Fitness: easy to moderate, maximum
trekking approx. 5-6 hrs on day 10.
hill-tribe village.
Transport: minibus, boat, 4WD, train.
Cost: ex London from £775,
ex Hanoi from £1,475.
Note: this tour is b & B only except:
Lunch on days 10 & 14 & dinner day 10.
23
21 days, 20 nights – all year round
vietnam
hanoi to saigon
Highlights:
• Hanoi
• Royal tombs of Hue
• Hoi An
• DMZ tour
• Ruins of My Son
• Snorkelling in the South China Sea
• Montagnard villages
• Trekking in Central Highlands,
• Elephant riding
• Mekong Delta
• Family homestays
• Saigon
A great introduction to Vietnam, this
3 week trip from North to South combines
essential sites and hidden places: Hanoi,
World Heritage Hue, charming Hoi An
port, Nha Trang and the rarely visited but
spectacular Nam Cat Tien National Park.
Discover the country’s past: ruined
temples of the little known Cham empire,
glorious pagodas and royal tombs of the
Nguyen Dynasty, the more recent, tragic
sites of the Vietnam War and the friendly
people, exotic cuisine, fantastic
landscapes and exciting cities of Hanoi
and Saigon.
Fitness: easy to moderate - hikes can be adjusted to
any level.
Accommodation: hotel, island resort, homestay, tribal village
Transport: minibus, train, flight, boat.
Cost: ex London from £1,750, ex Hanoi from £775.
24
Day 1 Depart London
Day 2 Arrival in Hanoi, check-in to a
downtown hotel and afternoon free to
wander or relax before an evening trip to
see the City’s unique water-puppet show.
Day 3 Day tour of this beautiful old city
with its French colonial ambience: lakes,
parks and temples and a stroll through
the bustling backstreets of the old
quarter before an evening sleeper train
south to Hue.
Day 4 Early morning arrival in the
ancient Imperial capital of Hue, check-in
to our centrally located hotel and a
leisurely cruise by ‘dragon boat’ along
the Perfume River to visit some of the
majestic tombs of the former emperors.
Afternoon at leisure to relax or wander
the streets and old fortified citadel
of Hue.
Day 5 More recent history with a day trip
to the infamous DMZ, (demilitarized
zone), to visit some of the key sites of
the Vietnam War, including the Vietcong
tunnels at Vinh Moc, Hien Luong Bridge
on the 17th parallel, which marked the
border between former South and North
Vietnam and Khe Sanh Combat Base scene of some of the most intense
fighting of the war.
Day 6 Short drive to nearby Hoi An
Town with stop-offs on the way at
mountainous Bach Ma National Park and
the beautiful and spectacular beach at
Lang Co.
Day 7 Well-preserved and charming,
World Heritage site Hoi An was one of
SE Asia’s most important ports during
the 17th - 19th centuries. A half-day tour
of the old town and waterfront area and a
free afternoon to roam the beautiful old
streets at your leisure or bicycle down to
the nearby beach for a dip or massage.
Day 8 Morning relaxing or a visit to the
bustling silk market and an afternoon trip
to the atmospheric ruined temples of My
Son - Vietnam’s most important Cham
site. The city was occupied from the 4th
to 13th centuries before succumbing to
its powerful Khmer and Vietnamese
neighbours.
Day 9 Transfer to Danang to visit the
City’s fascinating Cham Museum before
an afternoon flight south to Nha Trang.
From here we’ll continue by speedboat
to the secluded ‘Whale Island’ for
accommodation in a beach side resort.
Day 10 A half day snorkelling trip to
discover some of the varied, local marine
flora and fauna with plenty of time for
relaxation or an exploration of the islands
hiking trails for the energetic.
Day 11 At leisure on the island. (Note an inexpensive diving option can be
arranged for anyone interested.)
Day 12 Time to leave the island and
head over the Central Highlands to the
provincial capital of Buon Me Thuot - a
scenic drive with stop-offs to visit
villages and take in the dramatic scenery.
Day 13 On to Yok Don National Park for
a morning hike and elephant ride.
Situated along the Cambodian border,
this remote and rarely visited region is
Vietnam’s largest conservation area. In
the afternoon we’ll continue on to the
beautiful Lak Lake where we’ll stay as
guests of a M’Nong family in a local
‘Montagnard’ tribal village.
Day 14 Morning boat trip around the
lake before heading off to nearby Thu
Yan Sin National Park for a jungle hike.
Return in the evening to Buon Me Thuot.
Day 15 On to Saigon, following the
Cambodian border through more
spectacular scenery - tea and coffee
plantations, waterfalls, traditional villages.
Afternoon arrival and check-in to our
centrally located hotel.
Day 16 Morning tour of Cholon, the
city’s Chinatown district, with the
afternoon to explore, shop or sit in a cafe
and watch the non-stop spectacle of the
city’s traffic!
Days 17, 18 & 19 Our 3 day exploration
of the picturesque Mekong Delta begins
with a journey south to Cai Be where
we’ll visit a floating market and orchid
farm before taking the boat to An Binh
island for a homestay with a local family.
Discover the traditional cultures and
lifestyles of this beautiful region by foot,
bicycle, cyclo and river. 2nd night in Cam
Tho town and return to Saigon in the
evening of day 19.
Day 20 Time to relax, last minute
shopping or an optional boat excursion
to the nearby Can Gio mangrove forest
before an afternoon return flight to
London, via Bangkok.
Day 21 Arrival in London.
Note: this tour is b & b only except: lunch days 10 & 11 & dinner days 9, 10, 11,
13 & 18.
25
15 days, 14 nights - October to July
sri lanka
ceylon adventure
Highlights:
• Kandy
• Polonnaruwa ancient city
• Sigiriya rock fortress
• Dambulla cave temples
• Hill country
• Horton Plains national park
• Yala West national park
• Tangalle beach stay
• Galle
This 15 day, accompanied tour will take
you from the spectacular ancient cities of
the Central Plains through Kandy - the
scenic hill country and tea estates, to the
beautiful and undeveloped Southern
Coast via the wildlife and scenery of Yala
West and Horton Plains National Parks,
whilst allowing plenty of time for
relaxation and opportunities to ‘do your
own thing’. An ideal introduction to the
magnificent island of Sri Lanka.
• Local food
Fitness: easy to moderate, maximum trekking 4-5 hrs on
day 7.
Accommodation: hotel, guesthouse, camping, beach chalet.
Transport: train, jeep, minibus.
Cost: ex London from £1,400, ex Colombo from £875.
26
Day 1 Departure from London and late
night arrival in Colombo. Meet your tourleader and transfer to a hotel in the
nearby coastal town of Negombo.
Day 2 Morning at leisure - swim or relax
- before an afternoon train journey
through spectacular scenery to Kandy,
capital of the ‘Hill country’ where we’ll
stay in a lakeside, colonial era hotel.
Day 3 Day at leisure in this charming, hill
town; visit the superb Botanical Gardens,
the Temple of the Tooth, Sri Lanka’s most
sacred Buddhist site, or wander the lively
streets and colourful markets.
Day 4 Set off North to the ‘Cultural
Triangle’, or Ancient Cities, region where
we’ll begin our 2 day tour at
Polonnaruwa, World Heritage Site and Sri
Lanka’s medieval capital before
continuing to Sigiriya for an overnight
stay at the foot of the dramatic rock
fortress.
Day 5 Early morning ascent of this
dramatic site - a fortified city hewn out of
the solid rock of a towering limestone
outcrop. Wander the paths and rock
gardens at the foot of the mountain,
admire the famous rock paintings as we
wind out way to the summit on the and
take in the stunning view of the
surrounding green plain. Brunch at the
rest-house and on to the day’s second
World Heritage Site - the incredible cave
temples of Dambulla. Late afternoon
return to Kandy.
Day 6 Time to head South with a drive
through the scenic hill country to the old
colonial town of Nuwara Eliya. Mountain
views, tea covered terraces and an
opportunity to visit a tea estate itself.
Overnight in a 19th century, teak floored
hotel.
Day 7 Early morning departure for the
‘Horton Plains’ National Park where we’ll
trek through the cool upland heath and
forest to the incredible ‘World’s End’ site
where the hill country abruptly drops
1000 m to the southern plains below.
Waterfalls and wildlife before a scenic
afternoon drive to the small hill town of
Ella for accommodation in a local familyrun guesthouse.
Day 8 Day free to explore this
picturesque town or for the energetic try
out one of the areas numerous hiking
trails.
Day 9 Morning at leisure and afternoon
drive out of the hills to the famous Yala
West National Park. Afternoon hike and
camping overnight in the park.
Day 10 Up early for a morning jeep
safari - birdlife, deer, elephants and
crocodiles abound in Yala West and with
luck we’ll see one of the rarer species
such as clouded leopards. In the
afternoon we’ll continue along the
picturesque southern coast road to the
small fishing port of Tangalle.
Day 11 A secluded chalet resort set in
gardens by a beautiful bay is our base
for the next 3 days. Chill out on your
verandah, swim, discover other nearby
secluded bays and beaches or try out
the famous Ayurvedic massage.
Day 12 Excursion to discover the area the traditional fishing port of Tangalle,
friendly town and bustling market - the
nearby rock temple of Mulkirigala or
Rekawa Turtle Sanctuary.
Day 13 At leisure in our resort.
Day 14 On to the old fortified Dutch port
of Galle where we can hike along the
ramparts or check out the town’s former
Arab quarter, narrow lanes and curio
shops. Overnight in the beach town of
Bentota.
Day 15 Transfer to Colombo airport for
an afternoon return flight to London.
Evening arrival.
Note: This tour is half-board (Breakfast and evening meal)
27
family tours
We welcome families and have
found that many of our
itineraries are suitable or easily
adapted for children of all ages.
We are happy to discuss with
you suitable itineraries and offer
a high level of personal service
in helping you plan your trip –
whether it is 2 weeks in Thailand
or a 3 month tour of SE Asia.
Highlights for kids:
• Elephant riding
• Canoeing
No more “Mummy I’m bored” –
pack them off elephant riding,
canoeing, making friends with
the locals. Not only fun but very
educational, we have
successfully provided tours for
families with children of all ages
from 3 upwards.
• Rafting
Destinations:
• The weather
Thailand in particular lends itself to family
tours with its convenient, efficient
transport system, friendly helpful people
and high levels of food hygiene. Jungles
and Islands is probably our most popular
family tour, with Northern Mountains,
Southern Beaches being a hit with the
older children and the more adventurous
families.
Northern Thailand, Northern Laos and
Malaysian itineraries are also easily
modified.
Please feel free to call us for
references or to discuss planning
your family tour.
28
Recommended by the Mail on
Saturday and the London Evening
Standard, for families seeking more
than just sun and sea.
• Snorkelling
• Beaches
• Meeting local children
• Discovering the plants and
wildlife
Highlights for the
Family:
• One family equals one tour
– we do not combine you
with another family
thereby ensuring that we
can tailor the itineraries to
suit your family and its
requirements.
• Parents get to relax and
enjoy the holiday – the tour
leader sorts out all the day
to day logistics.
• Many families decide to
spend the more active and
off the beaten track part of
the tour with a tour leader
and then dispense with
their services for some
quality family time on the
beach at the end of the
holiday.
beach & island
extensions
For those wishing to extend their trip with some quality relaxation
time at a beach or on an island a variety of options at a variety of
budgets are available. Simple bamboo chalets to international class
5* resorts: from Thailand’s world renowned Samui to Vietnam’s
remote unspoilt Whale Island, a tranquil spa on the Andaman Sea’s
Koh Ngai or live-aboard scuba diving on the stunning Similan
Islands. Below are some of our suggestions....
Scuba diving &
snorkelling
Andaman Sea Diving
3 to 4 day ‘liveaboard’ scuba diving or
snorkelling trips to the Similan Islands
National Marine Park in the Andaman
Sea - one of the world’s top dive
destinations. Professional instructors
and PADI licensed - Beginners
courses, Open Water, Dive Master etc
Trips depart from either Phuket or
nearby Phang Nga Province. (full
board, Oct-May).
Koh Chang
Diving options are offered on the Gulf
of Thailand’s Koh Chang National
Marine Park from November through
to April. Warm waters, shallow reefs
and wrecks.
Whale Island
Try some off the beaten track diving at
Vietnam’s Whale Island - well away
from the bustling resorts of Nha Trang
this secluded island even boasts an
underwater nature trail for snorkellers.
(April to September and December to
January)
Perhentian Islands
Malaysia’s spectacular Perhentian Islands
possess some of the Peninsula’s clearest
water and best diving from the March to
September period. Dive or snorkel with
baby sharks and giant turtles.
Island stays
Koh Ngai Island, Thailand
Beautiful spa resort on a secluded
island in Trang Province - no roads, no
cars just a few well designed
comfortable chalets squeezed
between a backdrop of jungle and the
sandy beach in front. Turquoise
waters, a stunning beach and daily
boat trips available for snorkelling on
the surrounding coral reefs or visiting
some of the other islands of the local
marine national park. Convenient for
Trang airport - October to May is the
best time to visit.
Koh Chang Island, Thailand
A large, relatively undeveloped island
lying on Thailand’s East coast,
accessible by road or short flight from
Bangkok. A variety of resort options
from simple but comfortable 3* chalets
to luxury 5* spa resorts can be offered
on this spectacular island where sandy
beaches line the west coast, jungle
covered mountains fill the interior and
numerous coral-fringed, outlying islets
provide plenty of snorkelling and
diving possibilities.
Koh Samui
An excellent choice for the MaySeptember period for a beach stay.
During the Summer months, Koh
Samui has the best weather and
although the island can be more
developed than others which we
recommend, we have found the 3*
Long Island Resort or the 5* Tongsai
Bay have been enjoyed by families,
couples or singles wishing to relax on
the beach or do some diving.
Note: Hotel bookings for all major South East Asian destinations are available as well
as flight bookings within the region.
Note: Koh Ngai and Phuket are easily accessible from the finishing point of our South
Thai tours whilst frequent 1 hr flights connect Bangkok to either Phuket or Trang
airports. Koh Chang lying close to the Cambodian border is particularly convenient
for our “Indochina” tour and is approx. 5 hrs by boat and road from Bangkok. Please
note many other beach, island and diving options are available through Gecko Travel
- please ask for further details.
29
extensions & city breaks
Chiang Mai extensions
2 day spa resort stay
Pamper yourself at a country spa resort.
Located in the hills, a short drive from
Chiang Mai town and set in lush gardens,
with accommodation in individual villas
equipped with jacuzzi and steam bath.
Our spa break includes: honey scrub,
aromatherapy massage, herbal body
wrap, Thai massage and a candlelit
traditional Chiang Mai style dinner.
2 days, 1 night (1/2 board, all year
round).
Destinations
bangkok
chaing mai
penang
kuala lumpur
luang prabang
hanoi
hoi an
saigon
phnom penh
siem reap
3 day, 2 night Hmong Lodge adventure
Beautifully situated in a small valley
between wooded hills north of Chiang
Mai - the Hmong Lodge, run in
collaboration with local villagers of the
Hmong Hilltribe is your base for guided
excursions by foot, elephant, raft and
bicycle to explore the surrounding
scenery and villages (full board, all year
round).
Thai cookery class in
Chiang Mai
A fascinating, ‘hands on’ Thai cookery
course - 1, 2 or 3 days including guided
tours of markets and cookery book.
Accommodation in a North Thai style
guesthouse - centrally located but
peaceful in a garden setting with
swimming pool for relaxing after a hard
day over a hot wok (half board, all year
round).
Thai, country homestay
Bangkok
Hotel bookings available for pre or post
tour Bangkok extensions - explore the
city at leisure before embarking on a tour
or spend a couple of days shopping
before returning home?
3 to 5* accommodation, airport transfers
and guided tours available.
Our recommendations:
Viengtai - top range 3* with a great
central location.
Royal Orchid Sheraton - 5* with a
beautiful riverbank location and easy
access to river boat and skytrain.
Trips to surrounding areas can also be
easily arranged - e.g. day tours or
overnights to Kanchanaburi for example.
For something a little more traditional try
one of our ‘Homestays’ which we
organize in various parts of Thailand. For
instance stay in your own wooden chalet
in the hills of Chantaburi - just take in the
mountain views from your balcony or
explore the area and local villages with a
welcoming Swiss/Thai family (full board,
Oct to June).
Note: Hotel bookings for all major South East Asian destinations are available as well
as flight bookings within the region.
Note: whilst these options are obviously suited for any tour beginning or ending in
Chiang Mai, they may also be booked as separate trips, combined for a longer stay
in the region or indeed incorporated into any tour to or from Bangkok. Chiang Mai is
1 hr by plane or an overnight train journey away and flights with Thai Airways or train
tickets with State Railways of Thailand are also available from Gecko Travel.
30
hotels
Below are only some of our
recommendations - many
others available.
Vietnam
Saigon;
Liberty 4 Hotel - good 3* with a great
roof top restaurant and central location.
Caravelle - one of Saigon’s best known
and finest hotels.
Hanoi
Hoa Binh & Dan Chu - 3 to 4*
comfortable and well located.
Sheraton - probably the best downtown
5* close to the Opera and Lake.
Laos
Luang Prabang
Villa Santi - boutique resort in the heart
of the town. Beautifully restored French
Villa in a garden setting.
Malaysia
Penang
City Bayview - our choice of 4* in
Georgetown. Excellent rates and location
in the heart of the old city.
Shangri La, Rasa Sayang - 5* luxury in
the midst of tropical gardens by the
beach at Batu Ferringhi.
Sri Lanka
Colombo
Sapa
Victoria Sapa - 4* comfort in the remote
mountains.
3-4* Galle Face Hotel.
5* Mount Lavinia Hotel, Taj Samudra.
Kandy
Hoi An
Hoi An Beach Resort 5kms from the
town of Hoi An on a stretch of white
sand beach.
3-4* The Citadel, Helga’s Folly (eccentric
and bizarre)
5* Mahaweli Reach.
Bentota
Cambodia
Phnom Penh
Hotel Le Royal - Raffles run 5* and in our
opinion the City’s best location.
Golden Gate - great 3*, comfortable,
clean and very friendly.
Siem Reap
Victoria Angkor - recently opened,
beautiful designed and our favourite top
range site for an Angkor visit.
3-4* Club Villa, Taru Villas Taprobana both boutique hotels.
5* Saman Villas (exquisite boutique
hotel), Taj Exotica.
Tangalle
Palm Paradise Cabanas - aptly named,
simple but beautifully constructed
wooden chalets in an extensive garden
by a secluded bay. You won’t want to
leave.
Angkor Village - another beautifully laid
out boutique hotel in a tropical garden
setting - central but quiet location.
Neak Pean - 3 to 4* with teak suites
surrounding a garden and pool. Helpful
staff and located opposite the New
Market.
Though our itineraries are designed as one off trips please
note they are also scheduled in such a way that those who
wish to slot 2 or more tours together can do so making for a
longer, more comprehensive trip.
31
general information
Itineraries
Passports
What to bring?
We have taken every care to ensure that
the details in our brochure are correct at
the time of writing. Please note that
itineraries may need to be altered at the
last minute due to weather conditions or
other factors beyond our control. Rest
assured that any alterations we make will
be in the best interests of an enjoyable
and safe tour.
All visitors must possess a 10 year
passport valid for at least 6 months
beyond the date of return.
Detailed ‘what to bring’ lists are available
for each tour. Please ask our office for an
e-mail or postal copy or simply download
it from our web-site by going to the
relevant tour page and clicking on ‘what
to bring’. Note a simple answer to the
above question is “as little as possible” –
bear in mind that most items you may
forget are available locally and for a
fraction of the price.
An updated itinerary including any
changes from the printed version will be
sent to you for acceptance or otherwise
prior to departure.
Visas
Thailand: EU and US citizens are not
required to obtain visas prior to arrival
and will receive a 30 day visa free of
charge upon arrival in Thailand. For stays
of over a month a 60 day visa can be
obtained from any Thai consulate.
Malaysia: a 60 day visa is issued free of
charge to all US and EU citizens upon
arrival in Malaysia.
Laos: a 15 day visa will be obtained for
you by your Gecko Travel tour-leader
upon your arrival in Thailand. 2 passport
sized photos and £20 (c.$50) are
required. The process takes from 2 – 3
days during which time you will not have
access to your passport.
Cambodia: 15 day visas are issued on
arrival at Phnom Penh or Siem Reap
airports. You will need 1 passport photo
and $20.
Vietnam: Visas must be obtained before
arrival in Vietnam and are available from
your nearest Vietnamese embassy at £40
(c. $60). If you need any help with your
visa please do not hesitate to contact us.
Sri Lanka: EU and US citizens receive a
free 30 day visa upon arrival in Sri Lanka.
Insurance
It is a condition of booking that all
persons travelling with us take out
adequate personal insurance for the full
period of travel. We offer a competitively
priced, fully comprehensive insurance
policy through PJ Hayman Ltd. Details
are available on request.
Note: Non EU or US citizens should
consult the relevant consulate for visa
regulations for any of the above
countries.
32
What to wear?
Suggestions on what to wear for our
various tours are also available, taking
into account weather conditions as well
as suitability vis-a-vis the local people
and customs.
Health regulations
There are no compulsory immunizations
for EU or US citizens for any of the
destinations included in our brochure.
The following vaccinations are
recommended: hepatitis A, polio, tetanus
and typhoid. Your GP can advise on the
above. If you are considering anti-malaria
pills we recommend consulting a
specialist.
A yellow fever jab is required if coming
from an infected area.
Financial security
Gecko Travel is holder of Air Traffic
Organiser's License (ATOL) No. 5318,
granted by the Civil Aviation Authority of
the UK. All holidays and flights
mentioned in the brochure are thereby
fully protected so in the unlikely event of
our insolvency the CAA guarantees full
reimbursement and completion of any
ongoing travel arrangements. For further
information please consult the ATOL
web-site at www.atol.org.uk.
feedback
feedback
“It’s refreshing to find a tour
company designed for
independent minds”
Stephanie – “Indochina Adventure”
“for those who want an
adventurous holiday, but
don’t want to plan it or be
part of a big anonymous
group, Gecko Travel sets a
standard that is hard to beat”
Andy – “Jungles and Islands”
“It was like being part of a
National Geographic tour at
times…these are the kind of
experiences that will stay
with the boys for the rest of
their lives”.
Nancy – tailor-made family tour to
Thailand. Quote from ‘Mail on
Saturday’ Newspaper
feedback
feedback
“The program was a superb
combination of the many
facets of the country and
I would never have seen so
much of the country and
have done so many activities
if I had travelled on my own.”
“We were amazed that we
and our friends might get a
discount on future holidays I feared we’d been
blacklisted for being too
enthusiastic!”
Susanne - “Coast to Coast”
Ronald - “Reefs and Rainforests”
“I felt the tour was very well
run ... it had the benefits of
independent travel with all
the hassle taken out”
Dee – “The Hills of Mae Charim”
“Have tried to find a
complaint but really cannot
fault the tour which
exceeded all our
expectations”
Mary & Nigel - “Ruined Cities, Tropical
Islands”
“You undersell the whole
experience! It was fantastic!
I can’t fault anything!”
Philip – “Mekong Adventure”
“To sum up, the experience
was challenging, rewarding,
educational and heaps of fun.
I never thought I could learn
so much about one country
in three weeks.”
“Absolutely brilliant holiday.
The interaction with the local
people and guides made it
really enjoyable and definitely
gave the feeling that us being
there was responsible
tourism and not exploitative
tourism.”
Debbie – “Northern Mountains,
Southern Beaches”
Lindsay Winch - “Reefs and
Rainforest”
“The balance of recreation v
trips etc was well thought
out and although we had a
busy tour we didn’t feel as
though it was a route march!
Previously we have shied
away for the concept of tours
fearing being herded like
sheep from point to point but
this was more like a group of
friends exploring the area.”
Melanie & Clive – “Ruins and Islands”
33
climate
Note: Weather in the complex
geographical and conditions of SE
Asia is unpredictable. You'll see
downpours in the middle of the dry
season and clear blue skies during
the monsoon. Every season has
advantages when choosing when to
visit: winter is cooler, the rainy season
lush and richer in flora and fauna,
whilst the hot season is the ‘quietest’
time of the year as well as being
flowering period for many of the
spectacular trees, shrubs and orchids.
Laos and Northern Thailand have a continental, tropical climate possessing 3
distinct seasons: dry and cool from Nov. to Feb., a dry, hot season from March
through to May and a rainy season lasting from June to Oct. Temperatures vary
considerably during the year - April averages may even reach the 40’s, whilst winter
temperatures in the mountains on occasions approach 0 celsius.
Peninsular Thailand and Malaysia display equatorial weather patterns with little
monthly variation in temperatures and rainfall more evenly spread throughout the year.
South Vietnam and Cambodia. Temperatures remain relatively high throughout the
year with a distinct rainy season arriving in May and usually lasting through to October
by which times large expanses of the region are covered by the annual floods.
North Vietnam. Whilst generally much cooler than the south the heaviest rains also
occur from May to Oct. As with Laos winter temperatures in the mountains can be
surprisingly low and snowfalls in the far north are not unknown.
Sri Lanka. Sri Lanka experiences two monsoons every year, although different
regions of the island are affected. The southwest monsoon (or Yala) brings rain to
the southwest coast and the Hill Country from May to early July and again in
September and October, and the northeast monsoon (or Maha) can affect the whole
country, but particularly the north and east, from November to February.
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
North Thailand
Max temp cen.
29
32
35
36
34
32
32
31
31
30
30
29
Min temp cen.
13
14
18
22
24
24
24
24
23
22
19
14
Ave rainfall mm.
10
10
20
55
150
150
185
220
280
12
40
15
South Thailand
Max temp cen.
31
32
33
33
32
31
31
31
30
31
31
31
Min temp cen.
23
23
24
24
25
25
25
24
23
23
23
23
Ave rainfall mm.
40
35
60
130
270
240
220
235
295
290
180
80
Vientiane/Laos
Max temp cen.
28
30
33
34
32
32
31
31
31
31
28
27
Min temp cen.
14
17
19
22
23
23
23
23
23
21
18
15
Ave rainfall mm.
10
20
30
100
280
300
270
280
300
110
20
10
Phnom Penh
Max temp cen.
30
32
34
35
34
33
32
32
30
30
30
30
Min temp cen.
20
22
24
25
25
25
25
25
25
24
23
22
Ave rainfall mm.
10
10
30
80
120
150
170
150
210
250
110
40
Hanoi
Max temp cen.
20
21
23
28
32
33
33
32
31
29
25
22
Min temp cen.
13
14
17
20
23
26
26
26
24
22
18
15
Ave rainfall mm.
10
20
30
80
200
230
320
340
250
100
30
10
Ho Chi Minh City
Max temp cen.
32
32
33
33
33
33
31
31
31
31
30
30
Min temp cen.
22
22
24
26
26
25
25
25
24
24
23
22
Ave rainfall mm.
10
5
10
40
210
310
290
270
340
260
110
40
Kuala Lumpur
Max temp cen.
31
32
33
33
32
32
31
31
31
31
31
31
Min temp cen.
22
22
23
23
24
23
23
23
23
23
23
23
Ave rainfall mm.
170
210
260
200
120
125
140
200
250
270
220
10
Sri Lanka
34
Max temp cen.
31
31
32
32
31
30
30
30
30
30
30
30
Min temp cen.
22
23
24
25
26
26
25
25
25
24
23
23
Ave rainfall mm.
62
69
130
253
382
186
125
114
236
369
310
168
booking conditions
To make a booking
All bookings are made with Hidden Places
Adventure Tours Ltd T/A Gecko Travel (ATOL
Number 5318) and by confirming a booking
you are agreeing to the conditions set out
below as well as to the General Information
detailed above. To secure a booking, Gecko
Travel needs a completed booking form and
the necessary deposit or full payment for
travel within 60 days. Persons booking by fax,
e-mail or telephone, will be deemed to have
read these terms and conditions and have
signed the booking form. A booking is
accepted and a contract is entered into when
we issue you with a written confirmation of
booking. The contract, including all matters
arising from it, is subject to English Law and
the exclusive jurisdiction of the English Courts.
We reserve the right to decline any booking at
our discretion.
Payment for the holiday
If you are booking more than 60 days prior to
the date of departure you will need to send
10% of the total cost of the holiday as a
deposit. The balance of all monies due must
be paid to us not later than 60 days before
departure (or immediately if booking less than
60 days prior to departure). In the event of
non-payment of the balance we reserve the
right to cancel your booking and cancellation
charges will apply. A 1% surcharge will be
levied if the final balance/full payment is made
by credit card.
If you cancel your booking
Should you wish to cancel your booking, the
following cancellation charges will be
imposed. They are calculated from the day
your cancellation is received in writing:
• More than 60 days prior to departure –
retention of deposit
• Between 30 and 59 days prior to departure
– 50% of total tour price
• Between 14 and 29 days prior to departure
– 90% of total tour price
• Less than 14 days – 100% of total tour
price
Transferring of bookings
In certain circumstances, which we consider
to be reasonable, you may be able to transfer
your booking to another suitable person. This
can only be permitted if all suppliers (e.g. the
airline) agree to accept the transfer. If a
transfer is acceptable then we will need to
make an administration charge of £50 per
person plus any charges levied by suppliers.
If we cancel your tour
We will not cancel your tour unless (a) we are
forced to do so by circumstances beyond our
control such as flight cancellations, war, civil
or political unrest or ‘force majeure’; or (b)
because the minimum number of bookings
needed to operate the tour have not been
reached. In the latter case we will not cancel
your tour less than 6 weeks prior to the date
of departure. If we cancel the tour, we will
offer you an alternative tour if possible. If this
is not possible or not acceptable to you,
except under 5(a) we will refund all payments
made to us in respect of the tour cost, but we
are not liable for any incidental expenses you
may have incurred.
Surcharges
We will absorb fluctuations in exchange rates
or increased costs of less than 2%.
Surcharges may, however, be imposed up to
6 weeks prior to departure due to rises in
excess of 2% in exchange rates, increases in
transport or other costs, or if Government
action forces us to increase charges. If any
surcharge is imposed which exceeds 10% of
the tour cost, you have the right to cancel
your booking within 7 days of the notification
of the surcharge and we will refund any
monies paid to us in respect of the tour.
Complaints
If you have a complaint about your tour you
must make it known to your tour leader as
soon as possible so that s/he is able to take
appropriate action at the earliest opportunity.
If you are not satisfied with our response and
you feel your enjoyment of the tour will be
significantly affected you should contact our
office in Chiang Mai or our Head Office in
Portsmouth to discuss how we might best
resolve the problem. If on return from your
tour you remain unsatisfied you must notify us
in writing within 30 days.
It is important to us that you are happy
with your adventure tour and that you
understand the nature of our tours. We
would, therefore, ask that you take a
few minutes to read these booking
conditions as well as the information
contained in the ‘our tours’ page, and if
you need clarification on any point
please do not hesitate to contact us.
Passengers will be liable for extra
transport costs incurred due to a forced
change of itinerary because of factors
beyond our control.
Liability
The Company will accept liability for the
negligence of its own employees causing
direct physical injury to passengers only to the
extent that it is obliged to do so under English
Law. We cannot be held responsible for any
other mishaps to yourself or your property, in
particular those arising as a consequence of
flight cancellations, strikes, wars, riots,
robbery, sickness, quarantine, Government
intervention or other such happenings. The
Company will not accept liability for damages
caused by the total or partial failure to carry
out the contract if the failure is attributable to
the passenger; or unforeseeable or
unavoidable and attributable to a third party
unconnected to the Company; or the result of
circumstances beyond the Company’s control;
or the result of an event that the Company
even with all due care and attention could not
foresee or forestall. Where the Company is
found to be liable for damages in respect of
its failure to carry out the contract, the
maximum amount of such damages will
normally be limited to the price paid for the
tour. Where the damages relate to the
provision of transport by air, sea or rail, or
hotel accommodation, any compensation
payable will be further limited by the Warsaw
Convention as amended by the Hague
Protocol 1955 (air), the Athens Convention
1974 (sea), the Berne Convention 1961 (rail)
and the Paris Convention 1962 (hotel
accommodation). Any independent
arrangements that you make which are not
part of the tour are entirely at your own risk.
Transport
Details such as airline and aircraft type will be
confirmed at the time of your booking. Please
note that we use scheduled airlines for all
flights. Timings of all transport are estimates
only. They may be affected by operational
difficulties, weather conditions or failure of
passengers to check in on time. Please also
note that the carriers’ conditions of carriage
that apply to you have clauses that limit or
exclude liability. We do not make any
arrangements at the outbound or inbound
airports for flight delays (airlines make
provision in this case) but we will, however, if
this affects your outbound flight, do all we can
to make any necessary adjustments to your
itinerary to ensure that there is a minimum
knock-on effect to your overall tour.
Warning: Your booking is accepted on the
understanding that you realise the hazards
involved in an adventure holiday of this nature,
including injury, disease, loss or damage to
property, inconvenience or discomfort. Our
philosophy allows for a certain degree of
flexibility on the tours, in itineraries, activities and
accommodation. It is a condition of travelling
with us that you accept any necessary flexibility,
local inadequacies or unpredictable events when
they occur. You must abide by the authority of
the tour leader and your signing of our form
acknowledges this. We reserve the right to
terminate your travel with us immediately should
you commit an illegal act or your behaviour be
judged to be a danger or nuisance to fellow
travellers.
35
tel: 44 (0)23 9225 8859
fax: 44 (0)23 9225 9121
e-mail: [email protected]
web-site: www.geckotravel.com

small group adventure tours to south east asia

Transcription

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