DESTINATIONS — ASIA
Balancing act: street vendor, Hanoi
Spanning the centuries: the 17th-century
Japanese Bridge in Hoi An
city, sitting on a headland where the Mekong and Nam Khan rivers converge, seemed little changed. Photo opportunities abound,
from the early morning ‘tak bat’ ritual of monks receiving alms in the street (tip: show respect by not using flash) to busy morning markets, along with trips to the National Museum, Wat Xieng Thong and the night market. An afternoon excursion to
Kuang Si Falls, a 45-minute drive, offered a good introduction to the lush, mountainous countryside. The lower pools attract swimmers, while visitors who hike to the top are rewarded with fine views. With just two nights in Luang
Prabang the Laos leg was an all-too-brief taster but it served to highlight the contrasts with Vietnam, and demonstrate why Luang Prabang is the jewel in the Laos crown. TW
AGENT FEEDBACK
“Clients who have enjoyed visits to countries such as Thailand and China would love Vietnam and Laos, especially those who would like relaxation interspersed with cultural experiences. My highlights were Ha Long Bay and seeing the monks in Luang Prabang. I can’t wait to return.” Peter Ruck, GoCruise
“Highlights for me in Vietnam were the food, our impromptu walkabout in a village and the amazing atmosphere in Hanoi’s Old Quarter. In Laos I was most impressed by the beauty and tranquillity. The hotels were superb – the Fusion Maia was one of my all-time favourites – and our guides were excellent.” Peggy England, Trafalgar Travel
“It was a once-in-a-lifetime trip which exceeded my expectations. I’d definitely advise travelling with a company like Travel Indochina: their western tour leaders and local guides are knowledgeable and experienced.” Abigail Bates, Althams Travel Services
“Nothing can equal the lightning show in beautiful Ha Long Bay which illuminated the sky as we photographed the limestone pillars and Vietnamese junks – magical! We experienced amazing accommodation: the colonial-style Luang Say Hotel can only be described as a ‘mini Raffles’. Groups are small and led by experienced tour managers.” Roz Willis, Bath Travel
“This type of tour is really good for people who aren’t too confident travelling independently or who want to see as much as possible in a relatively short time. Ian, our western guide, was full of information and really brought the country to life. The Vietnamese people were so friendly and the food was great. A fantastic trip, it has made me very keen to experience more.” Jayne Otto, LJ Personal Travel
“Flying internally is straightforward and the good choice of hotel standards means it’s suitable for different budgets. I very much enjoyed the entire trip.” Amanda Sykes, Scapa Travel
48 •
travelweekly.co.uk — 14 August 2014
Strike a pose: Karl (back) and agents
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