Cambodia & Laos
South East Asia is a land both haunted by historical importance and enrobed in delightful tranquillity. From the religious fervour of orange- cloaked monks to the jungle-clad ruins of Angkor, the sights, sounds and smells of Cambodia and Laos will invigorate the senses and leave an indelible footprint on the soul.
Siem Reap From a small market town, Siem Reap has been transformed into the gateway to one of South East Asia’s most important archaeological sites – Angkor Wat. The magnificent ruins of the great Khmer Empire are partially hidden in the Cambodian jungle and deserve several days of thorough exploration. Activities: cycling, take a boat across Tonle Sap Lake
Phnom Penh Once the Pearl of Asia, Cambodia’s capital is a metropolis full of vibrancy, colours and exotic smells. Each of its quarters reflects a different character, with the most popular area to visit by the riverfront. Gather here for the bars and restaurants, and enjoy the famous Mekong sunset. Bursting with energy, the city has plenty to do – from temples to museums and markets. Activities: wander around the aromatic markets, visit the Killing Fields, museums
Sihanoukville As Cambodia’s only sea port, it is not surprising that Sihanoukville is known as the country’s premier beach resort. Surrounded on three sides by the Bay of Thailand and backing on to forested hills, the clear waters and coral reefs offer a richness of snorkelling, scuba-diving and fishing opportunities. Local fishermen are on hand to take you out to one of the many pristine islands just off the coast. Activities: swimming, snorkelling, scuba-diving, fishing, island visits
Kratie Tucked away in Cambodia’s wild north east, Kratie is a pretty provincial town on the mighty Mekong River. The distinctive Irrawaddy dolphins are now the town’s most famous feature: travel by boat to Kampi Pool for feeding time and watch as these endangered dolphins splash and play above the water. Activities: dolphin-watching, cycling
Vientiane Just across the Mekong River from Thailand, the Laotian capital has remained small and unhurried; commonly referred to as ‘Asia’s largest village’. French colonial architecture complements the tree-lined boulevards. The Patuxai is the biggest testament to the country’s history – as a miniature version of the Arc de Triomphe in Paris. These monuments sit side-by-side ornate temples and Buddhist statues. Activities: cycling
Luang Prabang Now a protected heritage site, the ancient city was once the capital of northern Laos. Serene orange- robed monks are a common sight gliding their way to one of the dozens of gilded temples. It is possible to walk between the city’s fascinating sights, including the Wat Phu Si temple on the summit of Mount Phousi; the views down over the hills at sunset are wonderful. Activities: boat trip to Pak Ou Caves, swim in the Kuang Si Falls
58 To start planning your tailor-made holiday call 0844 875 1890
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