Country Profiles

Cambodia

We offer you a place far, far away where smiles are free and thus traded daily. Banyan trees envelop ancient temples while sticky rice cooks on an open fire.

Ancient and recent history mix to show a country that has endured so much yet has so much to give... we offer you Cambodia!

Highlights

Angkor Wat and hundreds of other temples hidden for so many years are now becoming major tourist attractions. After the must sees, explore more remote and hidden temples that invoke a sense of discovery.

Phnom Penh, with its wide tree-lined boulevards and gleaming Royal Palace, is shedding its old reputation, but still struggles with the effects of its tumultuous past. Peace has come though and brought with it fabulous restaurants and luxurious and unique hotels.

Rotanak Kiri and Mondul Kiri, provinces in Eastern Cambodia, are home to some of the most remote and undisturbed hill tribes. Through our eco- and cultural-minded tours we strive to show tourists the flavor of hill tribe life without damaging or leaving our mark on it.

Stretching for 13,000 square kilometers in the wet season and only 2,500 square kilometers in the dry season due to its seasonal change of direction, the Tonle Sap Lake is a unique body of water and the lifeblood of Cambodia. Explore its flooded forests, visit local fish farms and observe the life of floating village residents. For even more peace and quiet retreat to the Prek Toal Bird Sanctuary where you can see a multitude of birds that also depend on these waters.

The Mekong River transcends Cambodia from North to South. In Phnom Penh it offers stunning sunsets and river cruises and further north you’ll find the almost extinct Irrawaddy dolphins, which exist only here in Cambodia.

Recent history makes a sad and important part of any Cambodian tour. Today Cambodia offers many memorials to the estimated two million victims of the Khmer Rouge. Though hard to bear, Tuol Sleng Prison Museum, Choeng Ek Killing Fields and the Killing Caves of Battambang offer a sad and shocking look at the world’s only autocide.

If you’ve ever wanted a $1 lobster then we offer you Sihanoukville, a quiet beach town that is yet to be discovered. Surrounded by national parks and boasting private beaches, this is where life really does seem to slow down. Hop on a scooter and explore or take a boat ride out to one of the many deserted islands.

Cambodia Preparation Guide

Visas: Visa instructions and a downloadable application form can be found at the Royal Embassy of Cambodia London. Click HERE.

Climate: Cambodia has a tropical climate, so it’s warm year round. Make sure you bring sunscreen, cool clothes and a hat. Though the seasons are outlined below, Cambodia is full of surprises and the weather can sometimes be unpredictable.
June to October is the rainy season – At this time Cambodia has high humidity and high rainfall, but it is also when Cambodia gets a new coat of pain, everything is green and ponds abound.
November to February is the dry season – January is generally the coolest month. This is the easiest time to visit the more undeveloped areas, but the busiest time at the temples.

March to May is the hot season – With no rain and a lot of dust, this is not the best time to visit Cambodia. However, with air-conditioned rooms and cars it is still possible

Money: Cambodia uses the American dollar as currency – riel is only used for amounts less then $1.00. The ATMs available in Siem Reap and Phnom Penh dispense US dollars.

Phone/Internet: Calling within Cambodia is easy and relatively inexpensive, and though the same can not be said for calling internationally, it is possible. Internet cafes are now on every corner and are incredibly reasonable.

Departure: When you sadly have to leave Cambodia, there is a $25 international departure fee and a $6 national departure fee. We provide free transport to the airport.

China

Our China tours have been crafted to showcase some of China's most amazing destinations and gorgeous natural wonders. This is the perfect tour to see some of China's most amazing natural and cultural places.

Highlights

Shanghai - China's largest city, which is an amazing cosmopolitan metropolis that seamlessly blends Chinese and Western cultures.

Guilin, reputed to have the most beautiful scenery on earth

Chongqing, where you can board a cruise ship for a cruise down the magnificent Yangtze River.

Xian, one of China's ancient capitols. Stand in awe of the Terracotta warriors which have stood guard over their emperor's tomb for over 2,000 years.

Beijing, the capital of China, is where you'll be mesmerized by its ancient imperial grandeur.

Visas: Visa instructions can be found at the Chinese Embassy, London. Click HERE.

India

From the Himalayan vistas of the north to the majestic deserts and maharajahs' palaces of Rajasthan; from the Moghul and British grandeur of Delhi to the quiet waterways of Kerala, India is a non-stop, ever changing feast for the senses.

Arriving in one of India's gateway cities, travellers are inevitably greeted by chaotic traffic, an onslaught of noise and an intense palette of colours, but travel to India with us and you will also discover a land of ancient traditions, spectacular landscapes and astounding diversity.

We take you beyond the crowded cities to timeless rural towns, stunning national parks and masterpieces of architecture and spirituality.

India Travel Advice and Information. Click HERE.

Japan

From its sleek, modern cities to ancient towns that have barely changed in centuries; from the colourful - and often bizarre - pop culture to traditional customs shrouded in mystery and mystique, Japan is a land of contrasts.

The food is, quite rightly, world famous and a highlight of any journey. The people too. By and large the Japanese are unfailingly polite and if you pack your sense of humour and a bit of patience you are sure to have a memorable and enjoyable journey.

Japan Travel Advice and Information. Click HERE.

Laos

Saffron-robed monks peacefully gather morning alms as the first rays of sun spill out onto the Mekong, reds and blues of a hand-woven silk scarf flap in the breeze, green jungle stretches as far as the eye can see and the golds of sunrise, sunset and the glistening Wats in between.

Experience the colors of Laos!

Highlights

Trek through the most uninhabited country in Southeast Asia and meet people whose daily lives are nothing like your own.

Visit hill tribes not used to foreign guests. See countryside so beautiful it takes the breath away.
A sleepy little French colonial town Luang Prabang offers visitors a chance to slow down and enjoy a sunset or two. Once re-vitalized, spend a day exploring the local Wats or head onto the Mekong in a long boat and see Pak Ou Caves or the Tat Kuang Si Waterfalls.

The Plain of Jars is one of the world’s great mysteries. How did they get there? Who put them there? And why?

A timeless city with a slower pace than its neighbors, Vientiane has a peaceful and charming quality to it. Stroll along the river front and explore the various Wats before heading out for fabulous French dining or a cultural show.

Laos Preparation Guide

Visas: Most nationalities – including American, British and Australian – can acquire a 15-day tourist visa on arrival at Luang Prabang International Airport, Wattay International Airport in Vientiane and the Friendship Bridge from Thailand. A tourist visa costs $30, a passport photo and the name of your hotel is required. A 30-day tourist visa can be obtained in Bangkok for about $30.

Climate: Laos experiences a similar climate to the rest of South East Asia. With more mountainous areas, however, it is often possible to escape the heat in the higher altitudes. Make sure you bring sunscreen, cool clothes and a hat

June to October is the rainy season – Rainfall levels vary substantially in the different regions, but at this time of year it can be substantially harder to explore off the beaten track.

November to February is the dry season – The lowest temperatures year round are in December and January and can drop to zero degrees Celsius at night. If traveling during this time you may want to pack a light jacket or sweater.

March to May is the hot season – Don’t worry about the sweater if traveling in Laos during this time. Temperatures can get up to 38 degrees Celsius

Money: The official currency in Laos is the Lao kip. Although Lao kip is the legal currency Thai baht and US dollars are often accepted. You can convert money upon your arrival, but be sure that you come to Laos with either US dollars, Thai baht, traveler’s checks or a credit card as there are no ATM’s in the country at this time. Most establishments are cash only, but cash advances are available in Luang Prabang and Vientiane with the standard 3% charge.

Phone/Internet: Both domestic and international lines in Laos are unreliable at best. Internet access is readily available, but can be slow.

Departure: On departure by plane from Laos, there is a $10 departure fee.

Malaysia & Borneo

You will see a huge range of sites from busy cities, to dense rainforest and from colonial hill stations to idyllic beaches.

Malaysia Travel Advice and Information. Click HERE.

Myanmar (Burma)

Where a government reigns by force, a population finds peace and happiness in the beauty and diversity of their country.

Shwedagon Pagoda rises to the heavens. The temples of Bagan stretch as far as the eye can see. The waters of the Irrawaddy ripples past ancient temples and modern wats and Inle Lake remains lost in time.
An unexplored country now open for exploration. A hidden people now ready to be found. Discover Myanmar!

Highlights

Yangon, the center of modern Myanmar. Explore Shwedagon Pagoda as the sun sets and watch locals revel in the magnificence of their place of worship. See the traces of the colonial past all while you stay in luxurious, world class hotels.

Travel back in time to Inle Lake where fishermen row with their legs and local trades thrive on floating workshops. People live, work and play on water, and you can too.

A forgotten wonder of the world, the thousands of temples stretching across the flat lands of Bagan are an awe inspiring sight. Explore by bicycle or horse cart and at night watch the sun set over the thousands of spires.

The Irrawaddy River lazes its way down Myanmar and you can lazy your way along it as well. With sunset cruises as well as multiple day boat rides, a trip on the river turns a vacation into an adventure.

Watch the sun set over Mandalay from the temple atop Mandalay Hill and chat with the young monks who gather there to meet and practice their English with Western travelers.

Experience some of the best crafts in Asia - paper umbrellas, stunning lacquer ware and intricate weaving.

Feel true serenity on the white sand beaches and go snorkeling or diving on unexplored reefs.

Myanmar Preparation Guide

Visas: Everyone entering Myanmar needs to have a visa, and a passport valid for at least 6 months from the time of entry. A tourist visa lasts 28 days and can be extended in 14 day increments. Apply via an agency or through the embassy. You will need to produce the name of your first hotel and flight information.

A tourist visa fee is $20. The processing fee is $15 + $20 documentation charges. Allow plenty of time for your application to be processed.

Download our Visa Information Form.

Climate: Myanmar has a typical monsoon climate with three weather periods:

May/June to October is the rainy season – The South West monsoon brings frequent and heavy rain, usually as afternoon and evening storms. This results in cooler temperatures but high humidity.

November to May is the dry season – With the change to the north-east monsoon the temperatures drop reaching their lowest in December and January, starting to rise in February.

March to May is the hot season – With no rain and a lot of dust, this is not the best time to be traveling, however Mango showers occasionally bring relief from the intense heat.

Money: You might read elsewhere that all tourists have to exchange $200 into FEC (foreign exchange certificates). This is no longer true. There are no ATM machines, you should take as much money in US $ as you will need as cashing travelers checks or getting cash with your credit card if often impossible. Your guide will help you exchange your dollars for the local currency,

Phone/Internet: Communication out of Myanmar can be a challenge. All major hotels have business centers and will try and help you make calls out if need be, but it is very expensive!

Internet is difficult because many of the Western services such as Yahoo and Hotmail are officially blocked. However, they are becoming increasingly accessible at the internet café rather than at the hotel business center. Again, your guide will usually be able to help you find what you need.

Departure: There is a $10 international departure tax at the airport.

Philippines

This fast-emerging tourist destination has much to offer the adventurous traveller.

With over 7100 islands to discover, The Philippines, and its friendly people, are just waiting to greet you!

Bustling cities like Manila and Cebu contrast with the tranquility of exquisite tropical islands.

And did you know, the Philippines is the 3rd largest English speaking country in the world, after the United States and Great Britain? Most signs are in English too!

The Philippines is made up of 7,107 islands. The main island groups are Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao.

The Philippines' capital is Manila. Luzon, the largest island group, accounts for more than half of the entire population.

Highlights

Tropical islands, sandy beaches, diverse wildlife, underwater treasures, a rich history, and a population of warm, friendly people most of whom speak English.

Often called "the eighth wonder of the world", the Banaue Rice Terraces stand as the most awe-inspiring man-made landscape in Luzon.

The panorama of the terraces becomes stunning as it changes colors with the season.

Vigan is a UNESCO World Heritage Site about 400 kilometers north of Manila on the west coast of Luzon, and is the capital city of Ilocos Sur.
It is the oldest surviving Spanish colonial city in the country.

he Chocolate Hills are one of Bohol's most famous landmarks, and look like giant mole hills. Indeed, they are one of the most important visitor attractions in the whole of the Philippines.

They are very uniform in shape and mostly between 30 and 50 meters high. They are covered with grass, which, at the end of the dry season, turns chocolate brown, from which they derive their name.

Sorsogon, in the Bicol Region, is at the southern tip of Luzon Island. Here, eco packages can be incorporated into your holiday. These tours include:
Whale shark interaction and Manta bowl dives - swim with the whale sharks and dive with the manta rays.

Donsol River's 100 kilometer stretch offers kyaking, as well as a Firefly river tour - the fireflies on the Donsol river should not be missed. It is easy to get mesmerized by their dancing!

Watching over all this is the beautifully symetrical, (and active), Mayon Volcano.

Philippines Preparation Guide

Visas: The advice from The Philippines Embassy, London, is that no entry visa is required for British nationals provided their intended stay will not exceed 21 days.

Passports should be valid for at least six (6) months beyond the intended period of stay in the Philippines.

Visitors should be in possession of return tickets.

Proof of a financial capability to finance your stay in the Philippines may be required.

Please ask if in any doubt, or visit the Phiippines Embassy Website.

Climate: The best time to visit The Philippines is between November and June, which is outside the "rainy season" of July to October, and is generally cooler. Having said that, The Philippines is open to visitors all year round!

Singapore

Singapore Travel Advice and Information. Click HERE.

Thailand

Where East meets West, Thailand is a country full of energy and tradition. From the modern capital of Bangkok to the ancient capitals of Ayuthaya and Sukothai, Thailand has been a master of its own destiny.

On Monday watch an IMAX movie on the biggest screen in the world, on Wednesday take a bamboo raft on the Mekong and be met by elephants for a ride through the jungle.
This is a country so diverse in both its culture and its scenery that you have to see it to believe it. So come, be amazed by Thailand.

Highlights

In Bangkok you can catch a VIP screening of the latest movies then eat 25 cent Phad Thai on Khao San Road, the backpacker’s paradise. Take a longboat ride through the back alleys of Bangkok only to land at the world famous Oriental Hotel for a sundowner.

Spend your days visiting peaceful, splendid temples and the Royal Palace, and be entertained by traditional Thai kickboxing at night. Bangkok truly is a city of paradoxes, where East meets West, haves meet have-nots and tourists are offered a front row seat to it all.

Leave Bangkok for a tour of the ancient capitals Ayuthaya and Sukothai. If you time it right you may be able to see a festival dating back hundreds of years.

Take an elephant ride through the jungle and marvel at the elephant show where mahouts put their training to the test and elephants show why they are the ultimate beasts of burden.

Relax with a traditional Thai massage.

Enjoy some of the best food in the world, or better yet, learn to cook it yourself at a traditional Thai cooking school.

Visit hill tribes in Chiang Mai and see the unique and varied cultures that have survived decades.

Need we even mention the beaches? Canoe through hongs, scuba dive off white sand beaches and enjoy fresh seafood.

Thailand Preparation Guide

Visas: Thailand allows almost all nationalities to enter the country for 30-days free of charge. Make sure your passport is valid for six months from the time you enter. Most nationalists do not need to get a visa in advanced.

Climate: Thailand’s climate is ruled by monsoons, creating three seasons in northern, northeastern and central Thailand and two seasons in Southern Thailand. Due to a more developed infrastructure, including prolific air conditioning and better roads it is possible to travel in Thailand year round.

November to February is the cool season – This is the nicest time to be in Thailand - the north is cooler while the west coast beaches in January and February are beautiful with calm seas and warm weather.

March to June is the hot season – Temperatures rise all over Thailand at this time of year though the higher altitudes are bearable.

July to October is the wet season – It rains the most in August and September, but October can have some flooding. Due to Thailand being more developed travel in the rainy season is possible. The east coast beaches can be beautiful at this time.

Money: The official currency in Thailand is the Thai baht. Ranging from 35 baht to the dollar, you can exchange US dollars or travelers checks and there are ATM’s throughout most of Thailand which often yield the best rate.

Phone/Internet: Thailand has developed faster than much of South East Asia and because of this it’s infrastructure is more developed. Phones, faxes and e-mail are readily available and are often at a first-world standard, especially in Bangkok.

Departure: On an international departure from Thailand there is a 500 Baht departure fee that must be paid in Baht.⋅

Vietnam

Vietnam is a series of postcards in motion. Step back in time to see boys herding their ducks, men lounging on water buffalo and women in conical hats bent double in rice fields. A diverse and varied culture, Vietnam has something for everyone.

From water puppets in Hanoi to the DMZ near Hue, from the Mekong Delta to the Sapa Hills, Vietnam has sights, history and people that will shock, amaze and amuse you.

Highlights

Visit Hanoi and stay in the Old Quarter where you can explore Shoe Street, Steel Street and even Button Street. See a water puppet performance, tour the city in a cyclo and watch the world motor by from a sidewalk cafe.

Just hours from Hanoi you’ll find Halong Bay where you can spend the night on a “Junk.”

Take day trips to Perfume Pagoda and Tam Coc and let paddlers take you out to the temples.

For a more sobering day take a DMZ tour and see such sights at Hamburger Hill, Khe Sanh and the Vinh Moc Tunnels, where an entire village lived and worked underground. Hear the Vietnamese perspective on what they call the “American War.”

Stay a while in Hoi An, a beach city with a village feel. Try the local food and get an entire wardrobe made-to-order.

Visit the Mekong Delta and be amazed at all that can happen on water.

Visit the countless museums in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, an interesting mix of history and propaganda.

Vietnam Preparation Guide

Visas: Visa instructions and a downloadable application form can be found at the Embassy of Vietnam, London. Click HERE.

Climate: Due to the ranges in latitudes and altitudes you can find weather to suit you almost year round in Vietnam.

October to March is winter in the north, but dry and warm to the south – From Nha Trang north the weather will be cool and sometimes wet. South of there it is the hot season with very little rainfall.

April to October is the warm and wet season – The southwestern monsoon brings warm, humid weather to the entire country except for the mountainous regions.

July to November is typhoon season – These devastating phenomenon’s develop off the coast and often hit central and north Vietnam causing flooding and damage.

Money: The official currency in Vietnam is the dong. Since the exchange rate of dong to dollar is so high we recommend a pocket calculator to help you when working out prices. US dollars and travelers checks can be exchanged in most banks and there are ATM’s in Vietnam that often yield the best rate. Prepare yourself to be a dong millionaire!

Phone/Internet: It is becoming easier to make both domestic and international calls from Vietnam and the price continues to drop. Internet is available though some sites may be censored.

Departure: On departure from Vietnam there is a $12 departure fee that can be paid in US dollars or dong.⋅