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Cox & Kings
The Far East
China • Japan • South-East Asia 2017-18 Group Tours & Tailor-Made Travel
Far East • 2017-18
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Cox & Kings
Travel Experienced The essence of any Cox & Kings holiday is that it will have been planned by a destination expert and brought to fruition by some of the best local representatives, guides and drivers on the ground. Our team has exceptional experience at organising travel, however complex the itinerary and however unpredictable the destination. Our aim is to free you from the cares of travel logistics, so that you can fill your mind with the extraordinary people, wildlife and sights you encounter. When I picked up the reins of Cox & Kings back in 1986 the company was already almost 10 times older than me. Its illustrious history is extraordinary, not just its longevity but in how it has reinvented itself as the world around it has changed. You can read more about our company’s story online at coxandkings.co.uk/history, from its foundation by Richard Cox in 1758 as military agents, through involvement in banking and shipping in the 19th and 20th centuries, to the modern era as a tour operator for discerning travellers. For me, a common strand running through the entire history is the spirit of innovation, which has remained a driving force for the business to this day. Our company may be old but it’s full of youthful energy. Although Cox & Kings has particular ties with India, I decided early on in my time that we should broaden our reach beyond the Subcontinent and, over the last 25 years, we have gradually extended our range to offer our brand of high quality group tours and private tailored travel to culturally and naturally fascinating countries all over the world – the back cover of this brochure shows you where. I am proud that we continue to build on the tradition of high quality service and attention to detail that made Richard Cox so successful more than 250 years ago. I very much hope that this brochure will inspire you to broaden your horizons with Cox & Kings.
Peter Kerkar Managing Director
What we offer to the Far East
Design & production: Cox & Kings Travel Ltd Printing: Taylor Bloxham Photography: Cox & Kings Travel Ltd, iStock, Shutterstock, Bigstock, Alamy, Robert Harding, Kusatsu Onsen Tourism Association, JNTO
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• Private tailored travel • Small group tours • Royal Academy of Arts expert-accompanied tour • Special group tours for single travellers • Luxury train journeys • Serene river cruises • Exclusive private islands
Why entrust your holiday to Cox & Kings? • Our extraordinary heritage – founded in 1758 • Award-winning holidays • Big company value for money • Small company personal service • The expert advice of your personal tour consultant • The best guides to bring a destination to life Find out more at coxandkings.co.uk or from your travel agent
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The
Far East Intriguing, exotic and spiritual, the Far East can captivate like no other. Alongside some of the most modern and fast-paced cities in the world are incredible relics of ancient civilisations. Whether it's walking the Great Wall of China or drifting above the stupas of Pagan in Burma in a hot air balloon, even the most seasoned traveller will find something new to discover. Wildlife and awe-inspiring landscapes abound – encounter swinging orang utans in the jungles of Borneo, learn about the plight of the pandas and explore the unique scenery of China’s national parks, meet with Asian elephants in Thailand and lounge on tropical islands in Japan. From luxury cruises along the Irrawaddy river, secluded beach breaks in Thailand and cultural tours in China and Japan, to wildlife holidays in Borneo and remote journeys across the wilderness of Mongolia, the Far East has something to offer every traveller. 4
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Contents by Region
Small Group Tours
6 Introduction
8 China
24 Classic China Solo Travellers tour • Superior tour • 11 Days & 9 Nights
Including an explanation about Cox & Kings group tours and private travel.
Including small group tours, Solo Travellers tours, private tailormade travel ideas, rail journeys and river cruises. See page 9 for full contents
34 Japan
Including small group tours, Solo Travellers tours, private tailormade travel ideas and rail journeys. See page 35 for full contents
52 Taiwan, Mongolia & South Korea
Including small group tours, private tailor-made travel ideas and rail journeys. See page 53 for full contents
64 Burma
Including small group tours, Solo Travellers tours, private tailormade travel ideas and river cruises. See page 65 for full contents
84 Vietnam, Laos & Cambodia
Including small group tours, Solo Travellers tours, Royal Academy art tours, private tailor-made travel ideas and river cruises. See page 85 for full contents
122 Thailand
Including private tailor-made travel ideas and rail journeys. See page 123 for full contents
132 Malaysia & Singapore
Including private tailor-made travel ideas. See page 133 for full contents
140 Indonesia, Papua New Guinea & the Philippines
Including private tailor-made travel ideas and cruises. See page 141 for full contents
152 Important Information
China
22 China: The Grand Tour Superior & Luxury tour • 16 Days & 14 Nights
Japan
42 Japan’s Cultural Treasures Superior tour • 12 Days & 10 Nights 44 Highlights of Japan Solo Travellers tour • Superior tour • 10 Days & 8 Nights
Taiwan, Mongolia & South Korea
60 Taiwan: The Beautiful Island Superior tour • 11 Days & 9 Nights
62 Mongolia: Land of Blue Sky Discovery tour • 16 Days & 14 Nights
Burma
72 The Golden Land of Burma Superior tour • 12 Days & 9 Nights 74 Burma Discovery Solo Travellers tour • Superior tour • 11 Days & 8 Nights
Vietnam, Laos & Cambodia
98 Grand Tour of Indochina Superior & Luxury tour • 21 Days & 18 Nights 100 Spirit of Vietnam Superior & Luxury tour • 14 Days & 11 Nights 102 Vietnam & the Temples of Angkor Solo Travellers tour • Superior tour • 12 Days & 9 Nights 104 Laos & Cambodia: Temples & Treasures Royal Academy art tour • Superior tour • 13 Days & 10 Nights
Including booking conditions, travel insurance, details on travel in the Far East, documents & health, airline upgrade options and an explanation on Cox & Kings holidays and the Cox & Kings benefits. Find out more at coxandkings.co.uk or from your travel agent
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Discover Xxxxxxxxxx
Group Tours Cox & Kings has been organising the highest quality group tours for generations and over that time we have built a deep understanding of the key ingredients to an enjoyable tour. These include well-planned and paced itineraries, expert guidance on the ground, enough free time to do your own thing and, not least, the company of like-minded travellers. For those seeking a premium touring experience, comparing like with like, Cox & Kings tours offer superb value for money.
Tour Features
Small group sizes: To enhance your enjoyment of the tour, we like to keep our groups small and manageable. Therefore numbers are normally restricted to a maximum of 26 people. International flights: Our tour prices to the Far East include international flights. We also offer great-value upgrades to premium cabins. You can see some information about upgrade options in our Flying in Style section on page 158-159, or speak to a Cox & Kings tour consultant for more details. Experienced tour managers: Cox & Kings tours are accompanied from arrival in the Far East by an experienced local English-speaking tour manager, unless stated otherwise. Cox & Kings uses local tour managers because their local knowledge and contacts mean they are best equipped to ensure the smooth running of the tour. Accommodation: All the hotel nights, as well as nights on board trains and boats where applicable, are included in the tour price.
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Excursions: All the sightseeing excursions described in the tour itineraries are included in the price. Where possible the entrance fees are also covered. All our excursions benefit from experienced local drivers and guides, and in some cases this is the tour manager. Meals: The meals we include are shown on each day of the itinerary. Generally, our group tours include breakfast daily and often some other meals. Our tours are not generally all-inclusive, allowing you to choose when, where and what to eat, rather than being limited to buffets and set menus. Flexibility: If you would like to add on extra days at the start or end of a tour, we are delighted to organise extensions, however simple or complicated. For most tours, we have suggested some ideas in this brochure. We are also flexible about flights. If you would prefer to start your journey from a UK regional airport then your Cox & Kings tour consultant will be able to advise you on the options. If you would prefer to organise your own flights and join a tour on a land-only basis your tour consultant will be able to provide a price for you.
Tour Categories
Cox & Kings tours fall into one of four categories, based on the level of comfort you can expect on a tour, as described below. On certain tours, we include some departures in one category and some in another. Luxury: These are our most comfortable tours and will usually feature 5-star de luxe accommodation throughout.
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Superior: Most Cox & Kings tours fall under this category and are based in 4- or 5-star accommodation where available, or the best alternative elsewhere. Standard: Simpler in emphasis, these itineraries typically feature 4-star or good 3-star accommodation throughout, or the best alternative elsewhere. Discovery: This type of tour is best suited to the hardier traveller as it will typically include some quite basic accommodation, possibly longer and rougher road journeys and, in some cases, more strenuous activities, such as trekking.
Special Tours
In addition to our main group tours, we also feature the following types of group tour. There are dedicated brochures and website sections for each, describing the complete range. Solo Travellers tours: This collection of tours has been specially created for individual travellers who enjoy exploring fascinating parts of the world in the company of like-minded people. The list of tours on page 5 highlights our Solo Travellers tours. Royal Academy of Arts tours: These expertaccompanied tours are open to all art lovers, enthusiasts and experts alike. The list of tours on page 5 highlights which tours are RA art tours. Please see page 5 for a list of all the group tours featured in this brochure. If you would like to find out more about how our holidays operate, please refer to Cox & Kings Holidays Explained on pages 160-161 of this brochure.
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Private & Tailor-made Travel Cox & Kings has unrivalled experience at creating superb private travel arrangements, whether you would like to take one of our set itineraries on a private basis or have a trip tailored for you from scratch. From expert planning to the delivery of reliable, seamless services on the ground, we take even the most complex requirements and craft them into well-structured itineraries, brought to life by the most experienced, knowledgeable and thoughtful representatives in each destination.
Cox & Kings Service
Exceptional experience: One of the keys to enjoying private travel in an unfamiliar country is peace of mind. Cox & Kings has been organising travel to destinations worldwide longer than any other tour operator and the culture of attention to detail and personal service has been passed on to successive generations of staff. Expert planning: The planning of your personalised holiday will be in the hands of one of our well-travelled, highly trained tour consultants, who are all destination experts. Your tour consultant will be your contact from start to finish of the planning process, to help continuity and also to ensure that all your specific interests and requirements are taken into account. Reliable support on the ground: On arrival in the Far East and at each new destination on your journey, you will normally be met at the airport, station or quay by a Cox & Kings representative who will then accompany you to your hotel, help you check in and confirm the itinerary for your stay.
Private car travel: For all road journeys, you will have your own car / minivan and driver. This allows you to travel in comfort and to stop off along the way if you see something of interest, want to take a photograph or would like a break. Private guides: Your own private Englishspeaking local guide accompanies most sightseeing excursions. This means that you can ask as many or as few questions as you like, with the emphasis on your own particular interests.
Using This Brochure
Discover the regions: This brochure is divided into several countries / regions – please see page 5 for the complete contents list. At the beginning of each section we include a minicontents and information about climate. On our Discover pages you will find descriptions of many of the better known and some less obvious places you may want to incorporate into an itinerary. Suggested itineraries & private tours: Dotted throughout the Discover pages are suggested itineraries. These are designed to be examples of how you might combine some of the key places highlighted in that section and to give you an idea of how much such an itinerary should cost. Almost all the group tour itineraries in this brochure may also be taken on a private basis and there are also some set private tours. As with the suggested itineraries, these private tours can also be tailored as much or as little as you like, except those days based on river cruises or rail journeys, which have fixed itineraries.
Accommodation recommendations: At the end of each country / region section you will find a selection of hotel options. These are not all the hotels that Cox & Kings can book, but they are our recommendations. More comprehensive hotel options may be found listed under ‘Accommodation’ in the country sections of our website – coxandkings.co.uk.
Accommodation ratings:
Given the inconsistency of the use of hotel star ratings worldwide, Cox & Kings has its own categorisation of hotels. The properties displayed on the accommodation pages in this brochure and on our website are each given one of the following six ratings, listed in order of comfort: Exceptional: Truly exclusive and exceptionally luxurious. Luxury: Very high class accommodation with superb facilities and service. Superior: High standard accommodation, service and facilities. Good Standard: Good standard accommodation, service and facilities. Simple: Clean and comfortable with en suite bathrooms, but limited facilities. Basic: Very modest, typically with shared bathrooms and minimal facilities. If you would like to find out more about how our holidays operate, please refer to Cox & Kings Holidays Explained on pages 160-161 of this brochure. There is also a wealth of additional information about the countries featured in this brochure in the Far East section of our website, reached via the 'Destinations' link. Please visit coxandkings.co.uk.
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China Group tours • Tailor-made travel • River cruises • Rail journeys
Mongolia North Korea China South Korea
China is a vast and varied country with innumerable rewarding sights to see. There are the cutting-edge cities of Shanghai, Hong Kong and Beijing, but beneath all that glitz the old way of life still continues.
Taiwan
Outside the big cities are ancient villages and water towns where old traditions endure, spiritual sanctuaries including the monasteries of Tibet and the temples of Dengfeng, and world-class sites such as the Terracotta Warriors and the Great Wall. Alongside the many cultural splendours are numerous national parks with stunning variations in scenery, from the limestone peaks of Guilin and the misty mountains of Huang Shan to the mighty Yangtze river. China deserves more than one visit if you are really going to discover all this, and more.
Discover China 10 Eastern China: Beijing, the Great Wall of China, Xian, Pingyao, Datong, Luoyang & Dengfeng, Shanghai & Beyond 14 Central China: Chengdu, National Parks of Aba, Wulingyuan Scenic Area 15 Southern China: Guilin & Yangshuo 16 Yunnan Province: Lijiang, Tiger Leaping Gorge, Zhongdian & Benzilan 18 River Cruising 21 Tibet
Small group & private tours 22 China: The Grand Tour • Group or private 24 Classic China • Solo Travellers tour 26 China in Style • Private 27 Tour Extensions Places to stay – our suggestions 28 Hotel Collection 32 Hong Kong & Macau: Short Breaks & Stopovers
Climate
In the north and east (Beijing and Xian) summers are warm to hot while winters are cool and dry. Central China (Shanghai and the Yangtze gorges) is warmer, although there is more rainfall year-round, with the heaviest on the coast. In the region of Yunnan in the south-west it can be pleasant year-round, although the mountainous towns of Lijiang and Dali get more extreme weather. In general, the best time to travel to China is during the spring (March – May) and autumn (September – October).
Image left: Cormorant fisherman, Yangshuo
Beijing
Shanghai
J F M A M J J A S O N D
J F M A M J J A S O N D
A 2
A 2
4 11 20 27 30 31 30 26 19 10 3
B -10 -7 -1
7 13 18 22 20 14
C 2
18 29 65 152 143 42 18 7
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7
7 -1 -7 2
4 11 20 27 30 31 30 26 19 10 3
B -10 -7 -1
7 13 18 22 20 14
C 2
18 29 65 152 143 42 18 7
4
7
7 -1 -7 2
Key: A: Maximum average temperature (C) B: Minimum average temperature (C) C: Average rainfall (mm)
Inspired to venture further afield? Browse our website to discover additional destinations, places to stay and itineraries; or speak to our China experts. t
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CHINA
Discover Eastern China Beijing Ancient temples, palaces & museums • Range of luxury hotels & fine restaurants Beijing has long been the political, cultural and economic centre of China and its turbulent history is reflected in its ancient palaces, grand monuments, landscaped parks, narrow backstreets and wide boulevards. The city has undergone rapid construction and development in recent years, but in the ancient hutong district it is still possible to see parts of the city that have escaped these changes. Tiananmen Square and the adjacent Forbidden City and National Museum are priorities for many visitors, but for those with more time the Temple of Heaven and Summer Palace make interesting excursions. For something different, the 798 Art District offers an insight into Beijing’s growing artistic community while a walk in the gardens of Prince Gong Mansion or the botanical gardens provides a welcome respite from the busy city.
(Yellow Mountain)
Forbidden City, Beijing
Terracotta Warriors, Xian
The Great Wall of China
Xian
Remote & little-visited section at Jinshanling • Cable car access at Mutianyu
Ancient walled city with pagodas & tombs • Terracotta Warriors archaeological site
Stretching from the Gobi desert to the Yellow Sea, the Great Wall of China is the largest man-made structure on Earth and an amazing feat of engineering, labour and sacrifice. The original wall was begun 2,000 years ago, when China was unified under Emperor Qin Shi Huang, to keep out marauding nomads, then later lengthened and upgraded during the Ming dynasty. Much of the wall is in disrepair but sections around Beijing remain in a good state or have been restored. The wall at Mutianyu, 1.5 hours’ drive from Beijing, offers superb views and is accessible by cable car. Jinshanling Pass, a 3.5-hour drive from Beijing, is much less developed and sees far fewer visitors, allowing for a more peaceful experience.
Xian, in Shaanxi province south-west of Beijing, is one of the oldest settled areas of China. Once one of the great cities of the world due to its location at the end of the ancient Silk Road, the city retains much of its historic character and is laid out in a grid within large city walls. Over 2,000 years, the city has seen the rise and fall of many Chinese dynasties, the most influential of which were the Tang. Xian’s most famous attraction is an army of thousands of life-sized warriors and their horses in battle formation, known as the Terracotta Warriors. Buried for 2,000 years, they stand guard over the tomb of Emperor Qin Shi Huang. Discovered in 1974 by a farmer digging a well, they came to be one of the most important archaeological finds of the 20th century.
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The Great Wall of China
Pingyao Ming and Qing dynasty architecture • Unesco world heritage site The ancient walled city of Pingyao is one of the best-preserved historic settlements in China and provides an insight into China’s cultural, social, economic and religious development. A Unesco world heritage site since 1997, it is an outstanding example of the Han cities of the Ming and Qing dynasty eras when the town was a thriving trade centre. A walk in the town centre reveals some of the fine buildings from this period, such as Jing’s Residence guesthouse, formerly home to a wealthy silk merchant; the Rishengchang Exchange Shop, which is the oldest bank in China; the County Government Office on Zhengfu Street; the Temple of the City God; and the Confuciun temple. It is also worth taking a stroll along the cobblestoned Ming-Qing Street, which is lined with Qing dynasty-era architectural works and shops with hanging lanterns. Longmen grottoes, Luoyang
Datong
Luoyang & Dengfeng
The Cloud Ridge Caves of Yungang • Awe-inspiring Hanging Monastery
Unesco site of Longmen grottoes, Luoyang • Legendary Shaolin temple, Dengfeng
Located in the north of Shanxi province, Datong is the former capital of the Northern Wei dynasty (386 – 534AD), when it was known as Pingcheng. Ancient sights here include the Bojiajiaocang Hall and the Shanhua Si temple. Datong is also a base for exploring the surrounding historical sites, such as the Cloud Ridge Caves of Yungang, Buddhist temples that were hewn from the rock face during the Wei dynasty and contain thousands of images of the Buddha. Other attractions include the Hanging Monastery, built precariously on sheer cliffs; the Great Wall at Desheng Bao; and the Yingxian wooden pagoda, one of the oldest wooden buildings in the world, built without using a single nail.
As the capital of 13 ruling dynasties, from the Eastern Zhou dynasty (770BC) to the Tang dynasty (923 – 936AD), Luoyang has been at the heart of the Chinese world for long periods of its history. Today, only fragments of its former prominence remain visible in the city’s museums, monasteries and caves, including the Longmen grottoes that contain more than 100,000 Buddhist images. The nearby Unesco world heritage site of Dengfeng is one of China’s most renowned spiritual centres, home to various religious institutions and temples including the Taoist Zhongyue monastery, the Confucian Songyang Academy and the renowned Buddhist Shaolin temple. Find out more at coxandkings.co.uk or from your travel agent
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Shanghai & Beyond Shanghai Walk along the historic Bund • Gardens, temples & river cruises Shanghai has, in recent years, become one of the world’s most dynamic cities, evident in its gleaming skyscrapers and busy streets lit with neon lights. However, the city does still hold traces of its heyday in the late 19th and early 20th centuries when, as the major port in the east, it became synonymous with recklessness and vice. Tourist activity is mainly centred around the historic Bund, the waterfront area behind the embankment on the west of the Huangpu river. Construction work is restricted in this area so many buildings retain their colonial features and have been converted into hotels. The former French concession is home to interesting architecture, including the vibrant Xintiandi district with its many stylish restaurants, bars and designer shops.
Suzhou Ancient silk trading centre • Explore ancient walled gardens Suzhou is one of the oldest cities in the Yangtze basin, and just 3 hours’ drive from Shanghai. Due to its strategic location on the Grand Canal, linking the mighty Yellow and Yangtze rivers, the city flourished as a trading and silk centre from the sixth century. Its most prosperous period was during the Ming and Qing dynasties when many officials, scholars and artists settled here and local traders grew rich. This wealth was largely invested in the 150 gardens, hidden behind high walls, which make Suzhou famous today. Some of the finest include the Humble Administrator’s Garden, the Garden of the Surging Waves Pavilion and the Lion Grove Garden. Showcasing Suzhou’s importance at the heart of the silk trade for centuries, the Silk Museum has displays on the origin, evolution and development of silk production. Shanghai
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Canal and bridge, Suzhou
CHINA
Hangzhou
Huangshan
Scenic boat tours, pagodas & tea plantations • The Impression of West Lake Show
Scenery from traditional Chinese paintings • Amazing sunrises & sunsets
Once described by Marco Polo as the most splendid city in the world, Hangzhou developed as a prosperous commercial city as early as the sixth century and later became the capital of the Song dynasty. Hangzhou is now a more peaceful town an hour’s train ride from Shanghai, set around the tranquil and picturesque Xi Hu, or West Lake, and overlooked by green hills. Staged entirely upon the lake itself, the Impression of West Lake Show is a spectacle of light, music, dance and theatrics. Hundreds of actors create a sensational performance depicting the myths and legends of the West Lake. Hangzhou is also celebrated for the quality of its green tea, such as Longjing or Dragon Well tea, which are noted for their flavour.
For centuries, Huang Shan, or Yellow Mountain, has been popular with artists seeking creative inspiration. An overnight stay on the summit above a sea of clouds offers a chance to enjoy spectacular sunsets and sunrises surrounded by a mountain range of 72 peaks, precipitous streams and alpine flora. Dotted around the paddies below are charming rural villages with historic Chinese buildings dating from feudal times, including Hongcun and Xidi, made famous by Ang Lee’s film Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon. The picturesque villages of Wuyuan county are all within easy reach.
Huangshan mountain
A suggested itinerary... China’s Ancient Heartlands 15 Days & 13 Nights from £3,755 An extensive itinerary visiting some of China’s more remote sites, including ancient Buddhist art and sculpture at the Yungang and Longmen caves, the Hanging Monastery near Datong, the Shuanglin temple near Taiyuan, and the famous Terracotta Warriors of Xian. Day 1: Fly to Beijing (N) Day 2: Beijing Arrive and transfer to the Hotel Cote Cour for 3 nights. Take a hutong tour by rickshaw. (N) Day 3: Beijing Visit Tiananmen Square, the Forbidden City and the Lama Temple. (B) Day 4: Great Wall Tour the Great Wall of China at Jinshanling. (B, L) Day 5: Datong Morning visit to the Imperial Summer Palace. Train to Datong. Stay 2 nights at the Datong
Hotel. (B, L) Day 6: Datong Visit the Great Wall at Desheng Bao and the Yungang caves. (B, L) Day 7: Pingyao Drive to Pingyao via the Hanging Monastery and Yingxian wooden pagoda. Stay 2 nights at Yunjincheng Hotel. (B, L) Day 8: Pingyao Guided walking tour of Pingyao’s ancient centre. (B) Day 9: Taiyuan Drive to Taiyuan via Shuanglin temple and Qiao family manor. Overnight at the Yu Yuan Hotel and visit Shanxi Museum. (B, L) Day 10: Xian Train to Xian. Visit the Muslim quarter, Grand Mosque, Bell and Drum Towers and the city walls. Stay 2 nights at the Grand New World Hotel Xian. (B) Day 11: Xian Tour the Terracotta Warriors, Forest of Steles and the Shaanxi History Museum. Evening Tang dynasty music performance. (B, L, D)
Day 12: Luoyang Train to Luoyang. Visit the Longmen grottoes. Overnight at the Holiday Inn Express Luoyang. (B) Day 13: Fly to Shanghai Kung Fu demonstration at Shaolin temple, then fly to Shanghai. Stay at the Central Hotel for 2 nights. (B, L) Days 14-15: Shanghai • Fly home Morning city tour. Fly home the next day (B) Guideline Prices Low season from: £3,755 (Jan – Feb) High season from: £3,895 (May)
Tailored travel
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CHINA
Discover Central China Chengdu Sample spicy Sichuanese cuisine • Sanxingdui archaeological site Chengdu, meaning ‘perfect metropolis’, is Sichuan’s thriving capital with a population of just over 14 million and growing. The city is experiencing rapid development and relative prosperity, with direct British Airways flights from London. It is still possible to glimpse the old way of life here, with bustling backstreets crammed with artisans, markets and street stalls. Close to the city is the Sanxingdui archaeological site, formerly a major city dating from the reign of the Kingdom of Shu in the third century. The museum here displays bronze masks, sculptures and an exquisite collection of jade.
Nature Reserves Unesco-listed national parks of Aba • Dramatic peaks of Wulingyuan The Aba autonomous prefecture in north Sichuan contains three spectacular Unesco sites: the Jiuzhaigou Nature Reserve, literally meaning ‘Valley of the Nine Villages’, has astounding alpine scenery and dazzling turquoise lakes with an abundance of wildlife; Huanglong National Park is dotted with colourful mineral pools and waterfalls; and Siguniangshan National Park hosts more than 1,000 plant species. Declared a Unesco world heritage site in 1992, Wulingyuan is a region of national parks dominated by more than 3,000 pillars and peaks rising from the dense forest, scenery that has inspired traditional Chinese painting for centuries. Tianmen mountain is the highest in the region, with one of the longest cable car rides in the world, leading up to a naturally eroded hole in the mountain known as Heaven’s Gate.
Huanglong National Park
C&K Recommends... See pandas near Chengdu
The Chengdu Giant Panda Breeding Research Base, located about an hour’s drive from Chengdu city centre, offers the best chance to see these charming animals in their natural environment. Further afield, the Bifengxia Giant Panda Base is set in 72 hectares of dense forest and assists in raising, breeding and rescuing giant pandas. Among the 80 resident pandas, about 30 were relocated from Wolong National Nature Reserve, which was severely affected by an earthquake in 2008. Visitors can view the pandas behaving as they would in their natural environment as the centre prepares them for survival in the wild.
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Giant panda, Chengdu
CHINA
Discover Southern China
Longsheng rice terraces
Guilin
Yangshuo
Access point for Li river cruises • Visit the Longsheng rice terraces
Relaxed river town surounded by rural life • Bamboo raft rides • Evening Impression of Liu San Jie Show
Guilin is a city in the southern Guangxi province, regarded as one of the most beautiful areas of China. Its appealing and quite bizarre scenery of limestone karst hills jutting out of paddy fields has been the subject of innumerable Chinese landscape paintings and literary works, and is best viewed from a leisurely cruise on the Li river. A hundred kilometres north-west of Guilin the landscape rises into the region of the Sanjiang and Dong ethnic groups, an area of small villages and farms that truly reflect rural China. Here you will find the Longsheng rice terraces, also known as Longji Titian, meaning Dragon's Backbone. Carved out of the hillsides around 650 years ago, the repetitive coiling lines of the terraces from the riverbanks right up to the mountain tops are an incredible sight to see.
Yangshuo is a small town on the Li river close to Guilin, surrounded by the stunning limestone karst scenery typical of the area. From here you can make easy explorations into the the lush green hills. An ideal way to see local activity along the river and reach further into the countryside is to board a bamboo raft. Each raft is equipped with a lounger for guests to sit back and enjoy the passing scenery. A typical trip covers 12km and takes approximately 1.5 hours. Another memorable experience is the Impression of Liu San Jie Show, an evening light and music performance held by the riverside. The show features both modern and classical music, with more than 600 performers, all of whom are local to the area.
Yangshuo on the Li river
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CHINA
Discover Yunnan Province Yunnan province is thought to have been established in 109AD by the Han dynasty. Located south of Mount Yun, the county was named Yunnan, meaning literally ‘south of Yun’. It is one of the lesser-visited, more ethnically diverse parts of China. The cities of Lijiang and the provinces capital, Kunming, have a wealth of history, cultural sites and some top hotels, but the main attractions lie beyond where the scenery is remote and spellbinding, with evocatively named locations such as Jade Dragon Snow Mountain and Tiger Leaping Gorge. Spring and autumn are traditionally considered the ideal times to visit as the continental weather patterns make for bitterly cold winters and hot, humid summers.
Lijiang
Tiger Leaping Gorge
Lijiang
Tiger Leaping Gorge
Jade Dragon Snow Mountain • Naxi history & culture
Stunning scenery • Day walks
Lijiang's Unesco-listed old town is a charming collection of narrow pedestrianised streets, elaborate houses with sloping roofs, quiet courtyards, winding cobbled streets fringed with tea houses and cafes, and small canals filled with meltwater from the peaks. The central square is often filled with local men and women in the traditional blue and white costumes of the Naxi minority who gather in the afternoon sun to sing folk songs. North-west of the centre of Lijiang is Shuhe Ancient Town, a former commercial district with many stone bridges and temples.
Tiger Leaping Gorge is named after the local legend of a tiger that leapt over a 30-metre-wide gap across the gorge while fleeing from a hunter. This 16-km-long gorge was carved out by the strong currents of the Yangtze river, known as the Jinsha in this region, which flows below the 2,000-metre-high cliffs. There is some spectacular scenery in the area, best seen from hiking trails and viewpoints throughout the gorge. The Halfway Guesthouse within the gorge offers basic overnight accommodation.
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CHINA
Zhongdian (Shangri-La) Tibetan culture & people • Song Zan Lin monastery The city of Zhongdian in China’s Yunnan province is claimed to be the location of the fabled Shangri-La and was officially renamed in 2001 by local authorities in an effort to promote tourism. The term ‘Shangri-La’ was coined by author James Hilton in 1933 in his novel Lost Horizon that tells the story of a plane crash-landing in the Himalaya and the survivors who seek refuge in a nearby monastery of the same name. Today, the city has a strong Tibetan influence due to its proximity to Tibet. Nearby, Song Zan Lin monastery is a large, practising Buddhist monastery in an area notable for its spectacular landscapes of high prairie, crystal-clear lakes and jagged mountains.
Benzilan Part of the ancient Tea Horse Road • Scenic walks North of Zhongdian lies the small town of Benzilan, the gateway to the glaciers of the Meili Snow Mountain National Park. The town was an important stop along the ancient Tea Horse Road, a trade route that linked the tea-producing regions of Yunnan with Tibet, Burma, India and central China. Originally famous for its fearless horsemen, Benzilan has preserved its authenticity and opens an extraordinary window onto the Tibetan culture. The LUX* Tea Horse Road hotel is a luxury mountain retreat and the best accommodation in the area, encompassing local culture across the main building’s architectural elements coupled with signature LUX* service inspired by Tibetan hospitality. Tibetan prayer flags, Yunnan
C&K Recommends... The Songtsam Circuit
The best way to visit remote areas of Yunnan and stay in comfortable accommodation is to do the Songtsam Circuit, a 6- to 9-day roundtrip from Zhongdian staying in Songtsam Lodges. You will be escorted throughout by a Tibetan guide and driven from place to place by a private car and driver. The scenic drives between lodges take from 2 to 4 hours and plenty of time is allowed for exploring the villages and mountains of this remote corner of China. Highlights of the circuit include walking up to the Mingyong glacier in the Mekong valley, part of a Tibetan pilgrimage route, and the spectacular drive from Meili to Cizhong. Mingyong glacier and Meili Snow Mountains, Yunnan
A suggested itinerary... Yunnan Explorer 10 Days & 8 Nights from £2,825 Venture into some of the less-visited, ethnically diverse regions of China, focusing on Yunnan province. Home to alluringly named locations such as Jade Dragon Snow Mountain and Tiger Leaping Gorge, the scenery here is spellbinding. Day 1: Fly to Chengdu (N) Day 2: Fly to Lijiang Arrive Chengdu, and connect with a domestic flight to Lijiang. Arrive and transfer to the LUX* Hotel Lijiang for 3 nights. (N) Day 3: Lijiang Morning at leisure. Afternoon to discover Lijiang’s Naxi heritage at Shuhe Ancient Town, then visit the Mu Family Mansion. (B) Day 4: Lijiang Full-day tour to Jade Dragon Snow Mountain,
including the Baisha frescoes and the Lijiang Impression cultural show. Optional evening Naxi music performance. (B, L) Day 5: Zhongdian Drive to Zhongdian. En route, visit Tiger Leaping Gorge and the first bend of the Yangtze river at Shigu. Stay 2 nights at the Songtsam Retreat Hotel. (B, L) Day 6: Zhongdian Visit the Songzanlin Tibetan monastery, which is modelled on the Potala Palace in Lhasa and has a delightful setting against a backdrop of dramatic mountain scenery. Continue to the Pudacuo National Park, home to a diverse array of karst features and beautiful landscapes. (B, L) Days 7-8: Benzilan Drive north to Benzilan in the foothills of the Meili mountains. Stay 2 nights at the LUX* Tea Horse Road Hotel. Benzilan, set on the ancient Tea Horse Road trade route, has preserved its authenticity and opens an extraordinary window onto Tibetan culture. Spend the following day
walking scenic mountain trails overlooking the Yangtze river, trying local produce or visiting the lamasery of Dongzhulin. (B) Day 9: Fly to Chengdu Drive to Diqing Shangri-La airport near Zhongdian and fly to Chengdu. Overnight at the Buddha Zen Hotel. (B) Day 10: Fly home Optional morning visit to the Giant Panda Research Base. Fly home. (B) Guideline Prices Low season from: £2,825 (Nov) High season from: £3,655 (Aug)
Tailored travel
Contact our experts t e
020 7808 6786 [email protected]
Find out more at coxandkings.co.uk or from your travel agent
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CHINA
Discover River Cruising Cruising on China’s great rivers is a wonderful way to discover the life of the people away from the major cities, allowing access to far-flung areas of the country. The Yangtze river, or Chang Jiang, has been central to China’s trade and transport for thousands of years. It is the longest river in Asia, flowing all the way from the glaciers of the Tibetan plateau in Qinghai province, north-west China. Cruises pass through beautiful countryside and villages, which contrast sharply with the huge Three Gorges Dam, a symbol of the major industrial developments that are taking place in modern China. The Li river has its source north of Guilin in the Mao’er mountains. It flows south through Guilin and Yangshuo until it merges with the Gui river, finally reaching the River Pearl where it enters the sea at Guangzhou in southern China.
Cruising on the Yangtze
Cruising on the Li River
Longer itineraries • Dramatic gorges & cliffs
Day trips • Idyllic rural scenery
Relaxing journeys can be made between Chongqing and Yichang on a 3-night cruise, or 6 nights’ sailing between Chongqing and Shanghai. Longer cruises extend to Huang Shan’s misty peaks and the historic cities of Wuhan and Nanjing, where you can connect to Shanghai by bullet train. Reverse journeys are also available.
The Li river has its source north of Guilin in the Mao’er mountains, then flows south through Guilin and Yangshuo until it merges with the Gui river, finally reaching the Pearl river where it enters the sea at Guangzhou in southern China.
Apart from the scenic countryside and the immense Three Gorges Dam, highlights include Fengdu, a charming river village also known as ‘Ghost City’ and noted for its elaborate Daoist temple and bustling markets, the Qutang gorge and the imposing cliffs of Kui Men. An excursion up the Shennong stream reveals a region abundant with several species of endangered flora and fauna, including elusive golden-hair monkeys.
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The section between Guilin and Yangshuo is particularly scenic, where the river meanders through dramatic limestone karst peaks and forested hills. A 4-hour cruise is a wonderful way to see this part of rural China, sailing past terraced rice fields and villages where you may catch a glimpse of locals fishing, mending boats or washing clothes. Cruises depart daily each morning, arriving in the early afternoon and thereby allowing time to explore the riverside town of Yangshuo.
Bamboo rafting on the Li river
CHINA
River Cruisers Victoria Cruises The award-winning Victoria Cruises is an American-managed company with a fleet of 7 cruisers, which are regularly refurbished and maintained to the highest standards. The Victoria Jenna is one of the finest, built in 2009 and renovated under the direction of a New York-based design firm in 2016. The vessel can accommodate up to 378 passengers in 189 well-appointed en suite cabins, each equipped with television showing HBO and CNN broadcasts, and fully air-conditioned with private balconies for viewing the magnificent scenery. Facilities include two restaurants (a single-seating main dining room, and an à la carte restaurant on the top deck), four elevators, a three-storey atrium lobby, two lounges, three bars for evening entertainment and socialising, a fitness centre, two full-sized lecture rooms, a library, the Oasis beauty salon, artist corners and a gift shop. Jenna is equipped with CDMA-wireless internet access. Victoria Cruises
MV Jenna atrium
MV Jenna Deluxe suite
Sanctuary Yangzi Explorer The Sanctuary Yangzi Explorer is the smallest and most exclusive boat on the river with the most spacious cabin and suite size. Service on board is impeccable, with the highest crew to passenger ratio on the river at 1:1. There is a capacity of just 124 passengers, accommodated in 38 luxurious cabins and 24 suites, each featuring a private balcony. Public areas are spacious and tastefully furnished, with superb photo opportunities from the observation deck. In addition to the international restaurant, there are two private dining rooms that can be pre-booked at an extra cost. The boat’s facilities include a gym, beauty salon and lounge bar with live entertainment. The spacious Huang Ding Spa offers six individual treatment rooms and a variety of beauty treatments. There is also a diverse programme of onboard activities, from tai chi classes to hands-on calligraphy and silk embroidery workshops. The highlights of the cruise are the small group excursions visiting less crowded and fascinating sights using knowledgeable guides. Sanctuary Yangzi Explorer observation deck
Sanctuary Yangzi Explorer
Deluxe cabin
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CHINA
Summer Palace, Beijing
Writer's Bar, Raffles Hotel Beijing
Yangtze river, Yunnan province
A suggested itinerary... Luxury China 12 Days & 10 Nights from £5,195 Explore China in style, staying in some of the country’s best hotels with private excursions of China’s most celebrated sites. The tour includes a 3-night Yangtze river cruise aboard the luxurious Sanctuary Yangzi Explorer. Day 1: Fly to Beijing (N) Day 2: Beijing Arrive and transfer to the Raffles Beijing for 3 nights. (N) Day 3: Beijing Drive out to the Aman at Summer Palace for lunch, followed by a visit to the Imperial Summer Palace gardens. Afternoon tour of Tiananmen Square and the Forbidden City. (B, L) Day 4: Great Wall Full-day tour of the Great Wall of China at Mutianyu, including a short walk on the wall and
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a champagne picnic in a nearby pine forest. (B, L) Days 5-6: Xian In the morning, relax with a private tai chi lesson at the Temple of Heaven, followed by a tour of the temple. Board a high-speed train to Xian, travelling in first class. Stay at the Sofitel Legend Peoples Grand Hotel Xian for 2 nights. The following day, visit the celebrated Terracotta Warriors. (B) Day 7: Chongqing Fly to Chongqing in Business class. Enjoy a dinner of the local spicy hotpot known as má là at a local restaurant before boarding the Sanctuary Yangzi Explorer (see page 19) for a 3-night cruise to Yichang. (B, D) Days 8-9: Yangtze river Cruise in style for 2 days, stopping for a shore excursion in Fengdu, a charming river village noted for its elaborate Daoist temple. (B, L, D) Day 10: Fly to Shanghai Disembark early this morning and visit the site of the Three Gorges Dam project. Transfer to
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Yichang and fly to Shanghai in Business class. Stay at the Fairmont Shanghai for 2 nights. (B) Day 11: Shanghai Visit Jade Buddha temple and Yu garden, followed by a stroll along the Bund waterfront. (B) Day 12: Fly home Take the Maglev train to Shanghai airport, then fly home. (B) Guideline Prices Low season from: £5,195 (Feb – Mar) High season from: £5,695 (May – Jul)
Tailored travel
Contact our experts t e
020 7808 6786 [email protected]
CHINA
Discover Tibet Tibet, described as ‘the roof of the world’, is the highest region on Earth with an average altitude of 4,900 metres. Spectacular snowcapped mountains, rivers, lakes and open grassland dominate the landscape. It is an area brimming with culture and unique ethnic traditions influenced by Buddhism. The gateway to Tibet is the legendary city of Lhasa, which has rail and flight connections to China. The city is worth several days' exploration but for those with more time the towns of Shigatse and Gyantse, located towards the Himalaya, have some interesting monasteries and stupas. The season for travel to Tibet is between April and November, with May and October considered to be the best months when the skies are generally clear and temperatures are moderate.
Lhasa Heart of Tibet • Former residence of the Dalai Lama At an altitude of 3,683 metres, Lhasa is one of the world’s highest cities, and the heart and soul of Tibet. Looming over the city is the architectural marvel of the Potala Palace, a landmark and the traditional winter residence of the Dalai Lama until the 1959 Tibetan uprising. Today, the palace is a museum and a Unesco world heritage site. Named the Historic Ensemble of the Potala Palace, it also includes the Jokhang temple monastery and Norbulingka, the former summer palace.
The Himalaya Immense mountains & monasteries • Visit Everest’s north base camp Venturing further south towards the Himalaya it is possible to visit Kumbum monastery and Palkhor Chode monastery in Gyantse. Further south, Shigatse is home to Tashilhunpo monastery, the former seat of the Panchen Lama and the temple of the Buddha Maitreya. Intrepid travellers can head towards the border with Nepal, via the Friendship Highway, and visit Everest’s north base camp. From 1921 to 1938 all the British climbing expeditions were attempted from the Tibetan side along a route reconnoitred in 1913 by John Noel, who explored in the disguise of a Tibetan traveller.
Potala Palace, Lhasa
C&K Recommends... Lhasa Express: the Qinghai-Tibet Railway
It is possible to fly into Tibet from Beijing but travelling by train is far more exhilarating. The full journey covers 4,064km and takes almost 47 hours. Most travellers fly to Xining and travel 1,110km along the Qinghai-Tibet section. This is the highest railway in the world and passes some spectacular scenery as it traverses the plateau. Viewing platforms have been set up at nine stations where travellers can enjoy incredible panoramas of the surrounding landscapes including Lake Namco, the Tanggula mountains and the Chumaer river. Everest north base camp, the Himalaya
Find out more at coxandkings.co.uk or from your travel agent
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CHINA • TOURS
China: The Grand Tour Duration • 16 Days & 14 Nights Category • Superior & Luxury
Group tour • From £3,295 Private tour • From £3,895 followed by a visit to the Tang Bo Art Museum and a lesson in Chinese calligraphy. Afternoon visit to the Muslim quarter and Grand Mosque, with a stroll among the stalls of the bazaar. Optional evening excursion to enjoy a Tang dynasty music performance with dinner. (B, L)
Tour overview This comprehensive tour of China visits the treasures of Beijing, the Terracotta Warriors at Xian, picturesque scenery between Guilin and Yangshuo and the pandas at Chengdu. Cruise the Yangtze river and visit the Three Gorges Dam, before ending the tour in cosmopolitan Shanghai.
Day 7: Fly to Guilin Morning tour of the city walls, then continue to the Wild Goose Pagoda. Afternoon visit to the tomb of Emperor Jingdi (Hanyangling), then fly to Guilin. Stay at the Sheraton Hotel / Shangri-La, Guilin* for 1 night. (B, L)
C&K highlights
Days 8-9: Yangshuo Morning cruise down the Li river, past a landscape of limestone hills, fishing villages and rice fields. Arrive in Yangshuo and stroll along busy West Street, then transfer to the Yangshuo Resort / Banyan Tree Yangshuo* for a 2-night stay. The following day is at leisure to enjoy the relaxed riverside atmosphere of Yangshuo. (B)
• 4-star hotels throughout, or upgrade to 5-star Raffles and Fairmont hotels • Direct flights with British Airways • Cruise through dramatic rural landscapes on the Yangtze and Li rivers • Explore a less-visited section of the Great Wall and the Terracotta Warriors • Visit an art gallery and learn the ancient arts of calligraphy • Small group size – maximum 26 people
Weather Beijing
Temple of Heaven, Beijing
J F M A M J J A S O N D A 2
4 11 20 27 30 31 30 26 19 10 3
B -10 -7 -1
7 13 18 22 20 14
B 2
18 29 65 152 143 42 18 7
4
7
A: Maximum average temperature (C) B: Minimum average temperature (C) C: Average rainfall (mm)
Area Map
7 -1 -7 2
Day 1: Fly to Beijing Overnight flight from London (regional connections available) direct to Beijing with British Airways. Please speak to your tour consultant to discuss alternative flight options. (N) Day 2: Beijing Arrive and transfer to the Novotel Peace Hotel / Raffles Beijing Hotel* for 3 nights. Afternoon walk in the Summer Palace gardens. Luxury tour includes afternoon tea at the Aman hotel. (N) Day 3: Beijing In the morning, visit Tiananmen Square and the Forbidden City, followed by a tour of the ancient hutong district by rickshaw. End the day with a visit to Jing Shan Park for a bird’s-eye view of the Forbidden City. (B, L) Day 4: Great Wall Full-day excursion to the Great Wall at Jinshanling, a quiet and dramatic section of the wall. Picnic lunch provided. (B, L) Day 5: Xian Morning visit to the Temple of Heaven. High-speed train* to Xian and stay at the Grand Noble Xian hotel / Sofitel on Renmin Square* for 2 nights. (B) Day 6: Terracotta Warriors • Xian Morning excursion to the Terracotta Warriors,
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Day 10: Fly to Chengdu Morning flight to Chengdu, then transfer to the Sheraton Lido / Shangri-La Chengdu* for 1 night. Afternoon visit to Jinli Street and the Wenshu monastery. Optional evening excursion to enjoy a Sichuan opera performance. (B) Day 11: Chongqing Morning visit to the Giant Panda Research Base. Afternoon train journey* to Chongqing, then transfer to a local restaurant for a traditional hotpot dinner. In the evening, board the Victoria Jenna* (or similar) for a 3-night cruise to Yichang. (B, L, D) Day 12: Yangtze river cruise Full-day cruise along the upper reaches of the Yangtze with a morning excursion to Shibaozhai or Fengdu. (B, L, D) Day 13: Yangtze river cruise Full day passing through the Three Gorges. The cliffs here reach up to 1,200 metres tall. Even after the dam, they remain hugely impressive. In the evening, pass through the locks. (B, L, D) Day 14: Fly to Shanghai Morning visit to the huge Three Gorges Dam, then disembark in Yichang. Fly to Shanghai for a 2-night stay at the Central Hotel / Fairmont Peace Hotel*. (B) Day 15: Shanghai Morning tour of Jade Buddha temple, Yu garden and the historic Bund. Optional evening visit to the state acrobatics show. (B) Day 16: Fly to London Transfer to the airport and fly back to London. (B)
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Great Wall of China at Jinshanling
Meal basis: As per itinerary – B: Breakfast, L: Lunch, D: Dinner, N: No meals.
Guideline prices for 2017-18
Important information
Group tour: Superior departures Low season from £3,295 Guide price months: Mar – May
Group tour: Luxury departures Low season from £3,795 Guide price months: Apr – May
Private travel: Superior Low season from £3,895 Guide price months: Mar
Group tour manager: This tour is fully escorted throughout by a local tour manager from arrival in Beijing.
High season from £3,660 Guide price months: Oct
High season from £4,065 Guide price months: Sep – Oct
High season from £4,225 Guide price months: Sep
Single supplement from £845
Single supplement from £995
Single supplement: POA
*Tour standards: Superior tour departures are based in 4-star accommodation. Luxury tour departures feature upgraded accommodation as indicated by the asterisks, while the Yangtze river cruise is aboard a Victoria cruise ship with Bridge Deck privileges for group tours only. Prices are based on the standard room category and First Class rail travel. Please visit this tour on our website to see details of the accommodation included. Accessibility: This tour involves climbing steps and some long walks. A reasonable level of fitness is required. You may need to carry your luggage at train stations. Extensions: Extend your holiday in Hong Kong, Hangzhou or Suzhou. See page 27 for details. Private & tailor-made travel: This itinerary can be taken privately on a date that suits you, for which guideline prices are shown. Alternatively, it can be tailored to your exact requirements. Please call 020 7808 6786 or email [email protected]
The guideline high season prices may be significantly lower than the peak season prices (15 Dec – 03 Jan) roup tours include: International flights • Transfers • Experienced local tour manager / The best G local guides • All accommodation • All sightseeing described • All entrance fees • Meals as per itinerary British Airways flight upgrades World Traveller Plus from £560 return Club World from £2,795 return
Regional air connections Please speak to your consultant for details
The guideline tour prices are all per person in UK pounds, based on two people sharing a twin/double room. For current prices for all departure dates, including special offers when applicable, please call 020 7808 6786, email [email protected] or visit coxandkings.co.uk. All prices are subject to availability.
Superior group tour departure dates for 2017-18 Out Rtn 24 Mar 17 08 Apr 17 07 Apr 17 22 Apr 17
Out Rtn 19 May 17 03 Jun 17 08 Sep 17 23 Sep 17
Out Rtn 06 Oct 17 21 Oct 17 20 Oct 17 04 Nov 17
Luxury group tour departure dates for 2017 Out Rtn 14 Apr 17 29 Apr 17
Out Rtn 05 May 17 20 May 17
Out Rtn 15 Sep 17 30 Sep 17
Tour code: CGS Out Rtn 23 Mar 18 07 Apr 18
Tour code: CGR Out Rtn 13 Oct 17 28 Oct 17
Find out more at coxandkings.co.uk or from your travel agent
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CHINA • TOURS
Classic China Duration • 11 Days & 9 Nights Category • Superior
Group tour • From £2,995
Solo
Tour overview Discover a different side to China on this journey from Beijing to Shanghai. Fully escorted and travelling with a group of solo travellers, enjoy cycle rides along ancient city walls, learn the secrets of Chinese cooking and try your hand at calligraphy, complemented by visits to the classic sights of the Terracotta Warriors, the Forbidden City and the panda sanctuary near Chengdu.
C&K highlights • Twin / double rooms for single use in 4-star hotels • Welcome & farewell group dinners • Direct flights with British Airways • Visit the Great Wall & the Terracotta Warriors • Enjoy a cycling tour, cooking lesson & panda sanctuary visit • Small group size – maximum 18 people Day 1: Fly to Beijing Overnight flight from London (regional connections available) direct to Beijing with British Airways. (N)
Weather Xian J F M A M J J A S O N D A 5
8 14 20 26 31 32 31 24 19 12 6
B -4 -2 3
9 14 19 22 21 15 10 3 -3
C 6 11 27 50 66 54 97 72 109 66 26 15
A: Maximum average temperature (C) B: Minimum average temperature (C) C: Average rainfall (mm)
Area Map
Giant pandas
Day 2: Beijing Arrive and transfer to the Asia Hotel for 3 nights. Afternoon walk in the Summer Palace gardens. Welcome dinner at a Peking duck restaurant. (D) Day 3: Beijing Morning with a local chef and a lesson in Chinese cooking. After lunch, visit Tiananmen Square and the Forbidden City. (B, L, D) Day 4: Great Wall Full-day excursion to the Great Wall at Mutianyu. Lunch is taken at the Brickyard Eco Retreat near the wall. Evening at leisure to choose a restaurant or browse the food stalls near the pedestrianised Wangfujing shopping street, which is close to the hotel. (B, L) Day 5: Xian Morning visit to the Temple of Heaven. Highspeed train to Xian and stay at the Grand Noble Xian hotel for 2 nights. Evening walk in the Muslim quarter, then transfer to Yongxingfang, a street selling all sorts of food and where you can sample some local Shaanxi cuisine. (B) Day 6: Terracotta Warriors • Xian Morning excursion to the Terracotta Warriors. Afternoon cycling excursion on the city’s ancient perimeter walls, followed by a visit to
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the Tang Bo Art Museum for a lesson in Chinese calligraphy. (B, L, D) Day 7: Fly to Chengdu Morning flight to Chengdu and stay 2 nights at the Xinliang Hotel. Afternoon visit to the Qingyanggong Buddhist temple to sample some local tea. Afterwards, stroll down the Jinli street, lined with traditional architecture and old shops selling goods including Shu embroidery, paintings and local snacks, before stopping for dinner. (B, D) Day 8: Chengdu Morning excursion to the Giant Panda Research Base. Afternoon at leisure. (B, D) Day 9: Fly to Shanghai Morning flight to Shanghai for a 2-night stay at the Central Hotel. Afternoon sightseeing cruise on the Huangpu river, followed by dinner. (B, D) Day 10: Shanghai Morning visit to Jade Buddha temple and Yu garden. Afternoon at leisure, or join the guide for a walk on Nanjing Road, Shanghai’s main shopping street. Farewell dinner at a restaurant followed by a walk along the Bund. (B, D) Day 11: Fly to London Transfer to the airport then fly back to London, arriving the same day. (B) Meal basis: As per itinerary – B: Breakfast, L: Lunch, D: Dinner, N: No meals.
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Shanghai skyline at dusk
Important information
Guideline prices for 2017-18
Solo Travellers group tours: These small group tours have been specially created for single travellers. Benefits include single occupancy of double / twin rooms as standard and at sensible prices, plus the company of like-minded travellers. View the complete collection at coxandkings.co.uk/solo-travellers.
Group tour Low season from £2,995 Guide price months: Mar 18
Group tour manager: This tour is fully escorted throughout by a local tour manager from arrival in Beijing. Superior tour: This tour is based in 4-star accommodation. Please visit this tour on our website to see details of the hotels included.
Tour code: CFS
High season from £3,595 Guide price months: Sep 17
roup tours include: International flights • Transfers • Experienced local tour manager / The best G local guides • All accommodation • All sightseeing described • All entrance fees • Meals as per itinerary British Airways flight upgrades World Traveller Plus from £560 return Club World from £2,795 return
Regional air connections Please speak to your consultant for details
The guideline tour prices are all per person in UK pounds, based on single occupancy of a twin/double room. For current prices for all departure dates, including special offers when applicable, please call 020 7808 6786, email [email protected] or visit coxandkings.co.uk.
Departure dates for 2017-18 Out 31 Mar 17
Rtn 10 Apr 17
Out 01 Sep 17
Rtn 11 Sep 17
Out 22 Sep 17
Rtn 02 Oct 17
Out 30 Mar 18
Rtn 09 Apr 18
Find out more at coxandkings.co.uk or from your travel agent
25
CHINA • TOURS
China in Style by Rail Duration • 12 Days & 10 Nights Category • Luxury
Private tour • From £3,655 Day 10: Shanghai Early morning departure to Shanghai by highspeed train. Transfer to the Fairmont Peace Hotel for 2 nights. (B)
Tour overview Experience the comfort and efficiency of China’s rapidly expanding high-speed rail network as you travel around the major cultural centres of China. Starting in Beijing, continue to Xian, Wuhan and Nanjing, before finishing in the modern metropolis of Shanghai. Along the way, stroll through beautiful gardens, ancient temples and mausoleums, visit celebrated sights such as the Great Wall and Terracotta Warriors, and learn about various aspects of Chinese history in the key museums of each city.
Day 11: Shanghai Morning tour of Shanghai, visiting the Jade Buddha temple, Yu garden and the Bund. Optional afternoon cruise on Huang Pu river, or visit the Shanghai Museum independently. (B) Day 12: Fly home Option to transfer to the airport via the Shanghai Maglev train, then fly home. (B) Meal basis: As per itinerary – B: Breakfast, L: Lunch, D: Dinner, N: No meals.
C&K highlights • Stay in 4- and 5-star hotels throughout • Travel in First Class on China’s high-speed trains • Marvel at the Terracotta Warriors and the Great Wall of China • Visit the ancient cities of Wuhan and Nanjing • Learn the ancient arts of calligraphy
Weather Shanghai J F M A M J J A S O N D A 7
8 12 18 23 27 31 31 27 22 17 10
B 0
1
5
10 16 20 25 25 21 14 9
2
C 43 60 84 103 115 159 135 136 152 58 52 37
A: Maximum average temperature (C) B: Minimum average temperature (C) C: Average rainfall (mm)
Area Map
Yellow Crane Tower, Wuhan
Day 1: Fly to Beijing (N) Day 2: Beijing Arrive in Beijing and transfer to the luxurious Peninsula Hotel for a 3-night stay. (N) Day 3: Beijing Morning visit to Tiananmen Square and the Forbidden City. After lunch, visit the Summer Palace and beautiful gardens, followed by afternoon tea at the Aman Hotel. (B, L) Day 4: Great Wall Drive north from Beijing and visit the legendary Great Wall at Jinshanling, a peaceful and dramatic section of the wall. (B, L) Days 5-6: Xian Early morning departure to Xian by high-speed train. Afternoon arrival in Xian and proceed to the Wild Goose Pagoda, followed by a short art tour and calligraphy lesson at the Tang Bo Art Museum. Transfer to the Sofitel on Renmin Square for 2 nights. The following day take a private tour of the Terracotta Warriors. (B) Day 7: Wuhan Continue to Wuhan by high-speed train. Arrive and transfer to the Shangri-La Hotel for a 1-night stay. Afternoon visit to the Yellow Crane Tower and the Hubei Provincial Museum. (B) Day 8: Nanjing Continue to Nanjing by high-speed train. Transfer to the Fairmont Hotel for a 2-night stay. (B) Day 9: Nanjing Morning tour of Mount Zijin, Zijinshan observatory and Ling Gu temple. Afternoon at leisure, with time to visit the Nanjing Museum and the Nanjing Massacre Memorial Hall. (B)
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Important information Locally escorted: Private tour led in each destination en route by a local tour escort. Luxury tour: Featuring some of the most luxurious accommodation in each destination. Prices are based on the standard room category and First Class rail travel. Upgrades to Business Class are possible on some routes. High season departures: During Chinese holidays, supplements may apply. Dates in 2017 include, but are not limited to, 4 – 6 Apr (Tomb Sweeping Day), 1 – 3 May (May Day holiday), 25 Sep – 7 Oct (national holiday) and 27 Jan – 2 Feb (Chinese New Year). Tailor-made travel: For a price quote based on alternative accommodation standards, to discuss flight options or to tailor this itinerary, please call 020 7808 6786 or email [email protected]. Train travel in China: Travel on the latest generation of high-speed train, with a top speed of 300km/h, using G category trains and travelling in First Class seats. Luggage allowance is 20kg and meals / drinks are available in the buffet car or from your seat. Porters at train stations are provided where available.
Guideline prices for 2017 Low season from £3,655 Guide price months: Mar High season from £3,825 Guide price months: May The guideline high season prices may be significantly lower than the peak season prices (15 Dec – 03 Jan)
TOURS • CHINA
Tour Extensions Valid for China: The Grand Tour, Classic China & China in Style by Rail
Chinese junk vessel, Hong Kong harbour
Administrator's Garden, Suzhou
Tour + Hong Kong 5 Days & 3 Nights from £995
Tour + Hangzhou & West Lake 5 Days & 4 Nights from £855
Tour + Suzhou 4 Days & 3 Nights from £695
Hong Kong, enclosed by the Pearl river delta and South China Sea, is celebrated for its culture, cuisine, shopping and magnificent skyline. It also holds many surprises, including spectacular rural scenery, the bays of Sai Kung and many quiet outlying islands.
Hangzhou developed as a prosperous commercial city in the sixth century and later became the capital of the Song dynasty. Now a peaceful town, it is set around the tranquil and picturesque Xi Hu, or West Lake.
Suzhou is one of the oldest cities in the Yangtze basin. The city flourished as a trading and silk centre during the Ming and Qing dynasties when many officials, scholars and artists settled here. This wealth was largely invested in more than 150 ornamental gardens, of which more than 50 remain today.
Day 1: Fly to Hong Kong Fly to Hong Kong and transfer to the Royal Pacific Hotel & Towers Hotel* for a 3-night stay (harbour-view room). (B) Day 2: Hong Kong Days at leisure to explore the city, go shopping or take a day trip to Macau. Optional guided tours are available such as a sampan ride through Aberdeen harbour (B) Day 4: Fly to London Day at leisure. Transfer to the airport and fly to London. (B) Day 5: London Arrive in London. (N)
Day 1: Hangzhou Train to Hangzhou. Stay at the Hyatt Regency* for 3 nights. (B, L) Day 2: Hangzhou Full-day tour of Hangzhou, including the Dragon Well tea estate, Lingyin temple, Qinghefang Street and a cruise on West Lake. Optional evening excursion to watch the Impression West Lake Show (payable locally). (B, L) Day 3: Hangzhou Day at leisure. (B) Day 4: Shanghai To Shanghai by train. Stay at the Central Hotel. (B) Day 5: Fly to London Transfer to the airport and fly to London. (B)
* Accommodation: Cox & Kings offers a selection of hotels on Hong Kong Island or in Kowloon to suit your budget and requirements. Please see page 33 or speak to one of our Far East experts for further details and prices.
* Accommodation: Cox & Kings offers a selection of alternative hotels in Hangzhou to suit your budget and requirements. Please speak to one of our Far East experts for further details and prices.
Day 1: Suzhou Drive to Suzhou and stay at the Shangri-la Suzhou* for 2 nights. (B) Day 2: Suzhou Visit Suzhou’s best-known gardens: the Humble Administrator’s Garden, the Garden of the Surging Waves Pavilion and the Lion Grove Garden. (B, L) Day 3: Shanghai Drive to Shanghai. Stay 1 night at the Central Hotel. (B) Day 4: Fly to London Transfer to the airport and fly to London. (B) * Accommodation: Cox & Kings offers a selection of alternative hotels in Suzhou to suit your budget and requirements. Please speak to one of our Far East experts for further details and prices.
Find out more at coxandkings.co.uk or from your travel agent
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CHINA • ACCOMMODATION
Hotel Collection This is a selection of our recommended hotels. Please see our website for more options.
Luxury
Luxury
Raffles Beijing
The Peninsula Beijing
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Luxury
Luxury
Raffles Beijing occupies one of Beijing's most historic buildings, with an enviable location minutes from Tiananmen Square, the Forbidden City and the popular Wangfujing district. In true Raffles style, the hotel is elegantly decorated throughout to create the oriental ambience of a bygone era, lovingly restored with wooden floors, sparkling chandeliers, marble bathrooms and oriental rugs. The hotel offers contemporary French cuisine at Jaan restaurant or pan-Asian at East 33, Chinese tea in the Raffles Courtyard and a mouthwatering selection of drinks and snacks in the graceful surroundings of the Writers Bar. 171 rooms, 2 restaurants, bar, library, gym, Raffles butler service, Wi-Fi.
Opened in 1989 in the central Wangfujing district of the Chinese capital, The Peninsula Beijing was renovated throughout 2016 to exceptionally high standards of design, luxury and comfort. Architecture is traditional Chinese in style, combined with luxurious, modern hotel amenities and facilities. The property is located just a short walk from the main sights and shopping streets of Wangfujing and is an excellent base from which to explore the city. The Peninsula shopping arcade houses the largest selection of designer boutiques in the city. Exclusive helicopter tours of the Great Wall can be booked through the hotel concierge. 545 rooms, 5 restaurants, indoor pool, spa, fitness centre, sauna.
Fairmont Peace Hotel, Shanghai
The Peninsula Shanghai
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The Fairmont Peace Hotel has been lovingly restored to its former glory as one of Shanghai’s legendary landmarks. Formerly the Cathay Hotel, it served as a glamorous playground of the elite during the golden age of the 1920s and 30s when Shanghai was known as the ‘Paris of the east’. With a superb location on the Bund, the hotel faces the Pudong area overlooking the Huangpu river. The Jazz Bar takes guests back to the private clubs of the 20s and 30s with its comfortable and authentic decor, a timeless cocktail list and a house jazz band consisting of six veteran musicians. 270 rooms, 2 restaurants, 3 bars including jazz bar & cigar lounge, spa, gym.
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The first new building constructed on the historic Bund in the last 70 years, The Peninsula Shanghai enjoys spectacular views of Huangpu river and the former British Consulate gardens. The Peninsula’s guestrooms blend luxury with art deco designs from the golden age. The hotel’s customised car fleet for airport transfers includes Rolls Royce Phantoms, BMW Peninsula Editions, two Mini Cooper S Clubman and an immaculately restored 1934 Rolls Royce Phantom I. The hotel’s Art in Focus programme offers a private guided tour by the deputy curator of the acclaimed Shanghai Museum of Contemporary Art. 235 rooms, 3 restaurants, 2 bars, indoor pool, spa.
ACCOMMODATION • CHINA
This is a selection of our recommended hotels. Please see our website for more options.
Luxury
Luxury
LUX* Tea Horse Road, Lijiang
LUX* Tea Horse Road, Benzilan
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In the heart of the Unesco-protected old town of Lijiang, LUX* Tea Horse Road, Lijiang is tucked away in a typical courtyard-shaped house and features traditional Naxi architecture. Guestrooms continue the Naxi theme, with timber-framed structures and design elements reminiscent of the Han and Zang dynasties. The hotel staff can organise personalised excursions into the surrounding region along the Tea Horse Road, one of China’s most spectacular trade routes. Try a Naxi cooking class with local Baisha villagers, learn about the legendary Pu’er tea or explore the mountains on horseback. 30 rooms, restaurant, bar, tea lounge, library, courtyard.
Luxury
A gateway to the Meili Snow Mountain National Park, this luxury boutique hotel is located at the entrance to Benzilan town. The area’s local culture is reflected in the main building’s architecture, combined with the signature LUX* service inspired by local Tibetan hospitality. Rooms and suites are located on three levels across the two main buildings, all with views of the riverside or the village and adorned with distinctive Tibetan touches, light interiors and airy living spaces. Local story-tellers and musicians sometimes gather at the hotel bar for impromptu cultural evenings. 30 rooms restaurant, cafe, tea lounge, library, infinity pool.
Superior
Banyan Tree Yangshuo
Yangshuo Resort, Yangshuo
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The Banyan Tree Yangshuo is set against a backdrop of rice fields and limestone mountains, with a riverside location just 15 minutes' drive outside of Yangshuo. All suites and villas are luxuriously appointed and designed to mirror the local architecture, with latticed windows, dark wood features, classic Chinese furnishings and earth-toned interiors. Banyan Tree resorts are renowned for their spa facilities: the Yangshuo spa is world class and features an exotic blend of ancient health and beauty practices featuring massages and body treatments, passed down from generation to generation. 142 rooms, 2 restaurants, bar, yoga studio, Banyan Tree spa, pool.
Yangshuo Resort has a peaceful location along the Yulong river, just outside of Yangshuo town centre. Rooms are spacious and well appointed, and all face the river for peaceful views of bamboo rafts cruising downstream against the backdrop of dramatic limestone peaks. The rooms are decorated with local touches such as cotton bedding made in the style of the Guibei minority ethnic group. The Riverbank Restaurant is a scenic place to relax and soak up the wonderful views, or retire in the later hours to the Dragonfly Bar for a relaxing cocktail. 236 rooms with river views, 3 restaurants, bar, sun terrace, spa. Find out more at coxandkings.co.uk or from your travel agent
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CHINA • ACCOMMODATION
This is a selection of our recommended hotels. Please see our website for more options.
Exceptional
The St Regis, Chengdu
One of the finest hotels in China, the St Regis is set within steps of Tianfu Square and Chunxi Road in the centre of Chengdu, near premier shopping and restaurants. All rooms have floorto-ceiling windows and 24-hour butler service. St Regis ‘Aficionado’ private experiences include lessons in Shu fabric weaving or tours of the Shuijingfang Museum to discover the craft of Baijiu, a traditional Chinese alcoholic beverage.
Luxury
Shangri-La Hotel, Chengdu
The Shangri-La Hotel in Chengdu is situated in the Jinjiang district, benefiting from spectacular views of the Jinjiang river and the beautiful Hejiang Pavilion. The hotel has been showcasing the rich artistic culture of Chengdu since its opening by featuring nine renowned contemporary artists from Sichuan. The hotel restaurant offers Sichuan cuisine and Cantonese favourites, served in front of views of Jinjiang river.
Exceptional
Sofitel Legend Peoples Grand Hotel, Xian
Originally established in 1953 as the Xian People’s Hotel, the building has been completely refurbished by the Accor group. Set in a beautiful landscaped garden in the centre of Xian, all rooms and suites are spacious and luxuriously appointed, featuring a marble bathroom with shower and bathtub and a 24-hour butler service.
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Luxury
Luxury
Luxury
279 rooms, 3 restaurants, wine bar, rooftop lounge, spa, gym.
593 rooms, restaurant, outdoor terrace bar.
71 rooms, restaurant, bar, cigar lounge, indoor swimming pool, spa.
Sofitel on Renmin Square, Xian
Fairmont Nanjing
Shangri-La Hotel, Wuhan
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The distinctive building of the Sofitel Xian is located on the impressive Renmin Square in the heart of the old town. Service here is excellent, providing the classic French hospitality for which the Sofitel group is famous for. Dining options include Moroccan, Brazilian, Japanese and Chinese restaurants. Rooms have a chic design with plush Sofitel MyBed, Chinese silks, rainforest shower and complimentary Wi-Fi. 414 rooms, 4 restaurants, spa.
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The Fairmont Nanjing occupies the upper half of the Jinao Tower, built to resemble a Chinese lantern. Its 359 stylish rooms and suites offer views across the city or towards the Yangtze river. The Willow Stream Spa offers treatments using traditional Chinese methods together with mineral pools, steam rooms and saunas. Music@61 encompasses an entire floor including a cocktail lounge, whisky lounge and wine lounge. 359 rooms, 3 restaurants, 2 bars, spa, pool.
Contact us on 020 7808 6786 or [email protected]
Located on Jianshe Avenue in the central Hankou business district, the Shangri-La is a 30-minute drive from Wuhan Tianhe International airport and a 10-minute drive from Hankou railway station. Its design, facilities and service are all in keeping with the quality associated with the Shangri-La group. All rooms have contemporary Chinese decor, city views of Wuhan and complimentary internet access. 442 rooms, 3 restaurants, cafe, bar with live music.
ACCOMMODATION • CHINA
This is a selection of our recommended hotels. Please see our website for more options.
Luxury
Shangri-La Hotel, Guilin
Overlooking the picturesque Li river, the Shangri-La Hotel is well located for exploring the city of Guilin. Guestrooms are furnished to a high standard and have views of the river, the beautifully landscaped gardens or Diecai mountain. The Shang Palace Chinese restaurant specialises in the local spicy Guilin cuisine, with various stir-fry and steamed dishes. Relax in the spa, which has both an indoor and outdoor pool.
Superior
Sheraton Hotel, Guilin
Set on the banks of the Li river and a short walk from Elephant Trunk Hill, the Sheraton Hotel is an ideal choice in the heart of Guilin, adjacent to the Zhengyang Pedestrian Street and a variety of shopping and entertainment venues. Rooms are available with garden or river views. The Riviera Mediterranean Restaurant has a large outdoor terrace, or Cantonese and Sichuan dishes are served at the Cathay Restaurant.
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Luxury
Luxury
449 rooms, indoor & outdoor pools, health club.
Superior
408 rooms, 2 restaurants, bar, outdoor swimming pool, gym, sauna, spa.
Songtsam Hotel, Zhongdian (Shangri-La)
The Songtsam Hotel Shangri-La is located next to the Song Zan Lin monastery. The lodge is housed in a traditional dwelling within this typical, self-sufficient Tibetan farming village where the founder of Songtsam, Baima Dorjie, spent his childhood. The lodge restaurant serves traditional Tibetan cuisine using organic produce from the surrounding villages.
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22 rooms, Tibetan restaurant, rooftop terrace, courtyard garden.
Superior
Hyatt Regency, Hangzhou
Raffles Hainan, Hainan Island
Jing’s Residence, Pingyao
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The Hyatt Regency is situated next to the famous West Lake, within walking distance of the shopping and entertainment areas. Rooms feature contemporary furnishings, while some offer superb views over the lake. Guests are also ideally placed to see the water fountain light show, which takes place just outside the hotel each evening. The extensive spa facilities include an indoor pool with glass rooftop. 390 rooms, restaurant, bar, cafe, cocktail bar, patisserie, indoor pool, spa.
With views across the sparkling waters of Clearwater Bay, a championship golf course and impeccable service, Raffles Hainan is the ultimate Raffles experience. The hotel is located within minutes of the beach, and rooms are the most spacious in Hainan, with private balconies, ocean views and decor inspired by the architecture of Bali or the culture of Asian hill tribes. 299 rooms & 32 villas, 3 restaurants, 3 bars, spa, 2 golf courses.
A member of Relais & Châteaux, Jing’s Residence is a charming boutique hotel set in beautiful courtyards that reflect Pingyao’s architectural history. Unobtrusive landscaping surrounds the various courtyards. Rooms are exquisitely decorated, combining modern artworks with traditional Chinese antiques, ancient carved wooden window frames, bamboo flooring and lacquered bedsteads. 19 rooms, courtyard dining area, spa.
Find out more at coxandkings.co.uk or from your travel agent
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CHINA • ACCOMMODATION
Hong Kong & Macau: Short Breaks & Stopovers Although worthy of a visit in itself, Hong Kong is an ideal stopover destination to or from mainland China, accessed by direct flights with either British Airways or Cathay Pacific. Often overlooked as it does not have an international airport, Macau can be easily combined with a visit to Hong Kong and offers another angle on China’s colonial heritage. A stop in either city also makes an ideal extension to an escorted group tour or tailor-made itinerary in China, with a huge range of accommodation options in both cities. Hong Kong and Macau are easy to navigate for first-time visitors: English is widely spoken and the public transport systems are excellent. Alternatively, Cox & Kings can organise a range of either private or shared excursions to help visitors orientate themselves or discover the cities in depth. Please see a selection of hotels on the opposite page or visit our website for further options.
Peak tram, Hong Kong
Colonial Portuguese buildings, Macau
Hong Kong
Macau
Enclosed by the Pearl river delta and South China Sea, Hong Kong is one of the world’s most modern and dynamic cities, rightly celebrated for its culture, cuisine, shopping and magnificent skyline. Far beneath its gleaming skyscrapers and hidden behind the glare of neon shopping arcades, Hong Kong can still give an insight into ancient Chinese customs and traditions. Explore the maze of streets around the Western District on Hong Kong Island or Mongkok in Kowloon, with its street food stalls and flower and bird markets. Alternatively, venture into the little-known green hills of the New Territories with their traditional small villages. Hong Kong’s transport system is a highlight in itself, especially the Star Ferry across the harbour or the Peak Tram, which offers amazing views of the whole city.
Just 60km south-west of Hong Kong and easily reached by a 45-minute catamaran ride, Macau makes an ideal day trip or twin-centre stay with Hong Kong. Although popular locally for gambling, there is also a unique cultural heritage and a plentiful history to be found here, with some of the oldest and most complete examples of European architecture found in China today. From 1557 until the 1999 handover, Macau was a Portuguese enclave, and retains a Portuguese atmosphere with pavement cafes and public squares overlooked by pastel-coloured buildings. The Ruins of St Paul’s are a city landmark, featuring a magnificent stone facade dating back to the 16th century. Visitors should not miss the chance to sample some delicious Macanese cuisine, or stop off at Lord Stow’s Bakery to sample their celebrated egg tarts.
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ACCOMMODATION • CHINA
This is a selection of our recommended hotels. Please see our website for more options.
Exceptional
Exceptional
The Peninsula Hong Kong
Mandarin Oriental, Hong Kong
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Opened in 1928, ‘The Grande Dame of the Far East’ is the flagship property of The Peninsula Hotels group and has established a reputation as a standard bearer of luxury and refined service. Located at the southern tip of the Kowloon peninsula, from where the worldwide hotel group takes it name, guestrooms feature chic, elegant decor and cuttingedge technology, with certain room categories offering spectacular harbour views. Airport transfers are available using the hotel’s fleet of luxury vehicles, including 14 Rolls-Royce Phantoms. 300 rooms, 7 restaurants, 2 bars, pool with harbour views, spa.
Luxury
For nearly 50 years, the flagship hotel of the Mandarin Oriental group in Hong Kong has provided a sumptuous urban retreat in the heart of Hong Kong Island. Renowned for its numerous restaurants, cafes and bars, enjoy anything from fancy Michelin-star cuisine or a refined afternoon tea to relaxed cafe culture. Rooms offer supreme luxury with a generous sitting area and floor-to-ceiling windows offering spectacular views either over the city or looking onto the activity of Victoria harbour. There is also an extensive spa with an indoor pool. 501 rooms & suites, 3 Michelin-starred restaurants, 3 bars, patisserie, spa, salon.
Superior
The Langham, Hong Kong
The Royal Pacific Hotel & Towers, Hong Kong
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Experience the art of luxury at The Langham, Hong Kong, honoured with the Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star rating and named one of Travel + Leisure's 500 World’s Best Hotels. Stay at the most fashionable address in Tsim Sha Tsui, surrounded by designer boutiques and just minutes from the iconic Victoria Harbour and renowned Star Ferry. Celebrating an expansive multi-million transformation that epitomises European elegance, the hotel features designer residences with innovative amenities, three Michelin-star cuisine, a rooftop pool and a bespoke club lounge. 498 rooms, 5 restaurants, bar, rooftop swimming pool, 24/7 fitness centre, complimentary Wi-Fi.
With a prime Kowloon location on Canton Road in the Tsim Sha Tsui district, the Royal Pacific Hotel & Towers has a number of shops, restaurants and bars nearby, while an MTR subway station and the Star Ferry to Macau are also within walking distance. A wide range of room categories are on offer in either the Towers Wing or Hotel Wing. Rooms are bright and modern and feature floor-to-ceiling windows with either views of the city, the harbour or Kowloon Park. The Pierside Bar & Restaurant has an impressive setting overlooking Hong Kong harbour. 673 rooms, 3 restaurants, bar, cafe, Pacific Place shopping and dining area. Find out more at coxandkings.co.uk or from your travel agent
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Japan Group tours • Tailor-made travel • Rail journeys Japan is a country like no other, at once futuristic and high tech but also with a strong sense of tradition as well as an incredible natural beauty. Cities that set the trend for the modern world rub side by side with timeworn temples, gardens and palaces, all surrounded by snowy volcanic peaks, valleys of spring cherry blossom or fiery autumnal reds, remote mountains to the north and subtropical islands to the south. The variety of Japan’s scenery and culture will overwhelm your senses: soak up the modern buzz of Tokyo, discover the imperial past of Kyoto, retreat to a Buddhist temple on Mount Koya, see the snow monkeys in Yudanaka, relax on sandy beaches amid coral reefs in Okinawa prefecture or indulge in healthy and nutritious food and traditional tea ceremonies. What’s more, highspeed rail links mean that you can discover much of the diversity of this country in comfort. 36 37 38 39 40
Discover Japan Tokyo & Kyoto Miyajima Island, Kanazawa & Hiroshima Osaka, Mount Koya, Tsumago & Kiso Valley Hokkaido, Kyushu & Japan’s Tropical Islands Experiences in Japan
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Small group & private tours Japan’s Cultural Treasures • Group or private Highlights of Japan • Solo Travellers tour Japan Explorer • Private
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Places to stay – our suggestions Hotel Collection Ryokans of Japan Unique Lodgings
Climate
Japan’s weather is very mixed and there are wide differences between the regions. Generally, the country experiences cold, sunny winters and warm, humid summers, with most of the rainfall in the summer. The best time to travel is spring or autumn, when days are relatively mild and clear.
Tokyo
Kyoto
J F M A M J J A S O N D
J F M A M J J A S O N D
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A 6 6 10 17 22 25 29 30 26 20 14 8
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Image left: Ginkakuji Temple, Kyoto
C 43 58 94 119 132 181 128 147 181 158 84 44
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C 78 83 111 134 142 228 214 126 181 111 78 65
Key: A: Maximum average temperature (C) B: Minimum average temperature (C) C: Average rainfall (mm)
Inspired to venture further afield? Browse our website to discover additional destinations, places to stay and itineraries; or speak to our Japan experts. t
020 7808 6786
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[email protected]
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coxandkings.co.uk
Find out more at coxandkings.co.uk or from your travel agent
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JAPAN
Discover Japan Private travel in Japan is significantly more expensive than in other Far East countries due to the high costs of vehicle hire, drivers and guides. If you would like to plan a lower cost tailor-made private trip, there is the option of using public transport or shared services that are not exclusive to Cox & Kings for sightseeing and travel between cities. In off-the-beaten-track areas of the country English is not widely spoken and self-guiding may be the best option. All Cox & Kings private travellers are provided with a comprehensive information pack, including transport instructions and bilingual timetables, hotel addresses and maps, and a guide for each destination covering a wide range of topics from eating out to enjoying a hot-spring bath.
Rainbow Bridge, Tokyo Bay
Kinkakuji temple, Kyoto
Tokyo
Kyoto
Neon cityscapes, world-class restaurants & shopping • Ancient temples, palaces & gardens
Zen gardens, pavilions & temples • Traditional Japanese cultural experiences
The energetic city of Tokyo has been the capital of Japan since 1868. Its cosmopolitan nature is reflected in its variety of shops, restaurants, markets and 24-hour activity. Stroll through Hamarikyu gardens, located at the mouth of Sumida river, or visit the Asakusa Kannon temple, the largest Buddhist temple in Tokyo and a popular meeting place on holidays and weekends. The Imperial East Garden, the only part of the Imperial Palace complex that is open to the public, contains the Ote-mon Gate and the palace gardens, from where there are views over central Tokyo. If it’s neon lights you’re after then the Ginza, Shibuya and Shinjuku districts are lined with huge public video screens and grand department stores – the classic vision of Tokyo by night.
Japan’s capital from the seventh century until around the 11th century, Kyoto is known today as the cultural heart of Japan, with many historical treasures that have world heritage status. Kinkakuji (or the Golden Pavilion) is one of Japan’s most celebrated temples. Set in well-tended gardens beside a small lake, this glittering temple is covered entirely in gold leaf. Nijo castle was built in 1603 to demonstrate the power of the first Tokugawa Shogun Ieyasu, with a design that reflects an ambition to impress rather than to engage in combat. Other sites spread throughout the city that merit a visit include Sanjusangendo Hall, known as the ‘Temple of a 1,001 Images of Buddha’, Kiyomizu Buddhist temple, Ginkakuji (or the Silver Pavilion) and the Fushimi Inari shrine.
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JAPAN
Miyajima Island Iconic red torii gate • Peaceful island atmosphere Miyajima is an atmospheric island located just off the mainland between Hiroshima and Kyushu, in a waterway known as the Inland Sea. Much of this mountainous island is covered in lush vegetation, with some excellent walking trails. Miyajima’s most celebrated landmark is the large, bright-red Shinto torii, or gate, floating in the water in front of Itsukushima Shrine. A stay in a ryokan here is highly recommended – see page 50 for more details.
Kanazawa The beautiful garden of Kenroku-en • Nagamachi district, home of the samurai Kanazawa, on the west coast of Honshu island, grew in importance from the 15th century when the Ikko and Maeda clans chose the town for their headquarters. It came to rival Kyoto and Edo (Tokyo) in cultural significance. The Nagamachi district, at the foot of Kanazawa castle where the samurai used to reside, preserves a historic atmosphere with its remaining samurai mansions, earthen walls, private entrance gates, narrow lanes and canal. Kanazawa is also notable for Kenroku-en, one of Japan’s finest gardens. Great floating gate (O-Torii) on Miyajima island
Kenroku-en garden, Kanazawa
Hiroshima Visit the A-Bomb Museum & Peace Memorial Park • Meet a hibakusha (atomic bomb survivor) Hiroshima needs no introduction as the first city on Earth to be hit by an atomic bomb, although these days Hiroshima is a young and lively city. The A-Bomb Museum & Peace Memorial Park was built by the people of the city to symbolise their wishes for everlasting peace. It encompasses the Peace Memorial Museum, the Memorial Cenotaph and the Flame of Peace. The city’s castle, sometimes called Carp Castle, was originally constructed in 1589. Much of it was dismantled following the Meiji Restoration, leaving only the donjon (castle keep), the main gates and turrets. Atomic Dome, Hiroshima
Find out more at coxandkings.co.uk or from your travel agent
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JAPAN
Osaka Popular for food & shopping • Lively nightlife, bars & restaurants Osaka is western Japan’s commercial hub, a huge sprawling city of more than 19 million people. Situated at the mouth of the Yodo river and with a network of canals, it is regarded as a more lively and fun-loving city than Tokyo, with countless karaoke centres, fashionable clothes shops, bars and theatres. Attractions include the domineering white Osaka castle, Osaka Bay and the Umeda and Namba entertainment districts. The city is also famous for its variety of food: try takoyaki – balls of batter filled with diced octopus. With excellent rail transport links and a key international airport, Osaka is easy to feature on most Japan itineraries.
Mount Koya One of Japan’s holiest mountains • Overnight stays at the monastery Reached from Osaka or Kyoto, the journey to Mount Koya passes through a cedar-filled valley, 800 metres above sea level, passing beneath the watchful eye of eight mountain peaks. In the early ninth century, Buddhist monk Kobo Daishi founded the first temple here, and there are now more than 100 monasteries surrounding the head temple of Kongobuji. This monastic complex offers a retreat away from the cities, and staying overnight allows you to rise early, avoid the crowds and join the monks at morning prayers. The nearby town of Koya continues the tradition of religious study with its university and several temples. Osaka castle, Osaka
Danjo Garan complex, Mount Koya
Tsumago & Kiso Valley Historic buildings • Stunning mountain scenery Tsumago is a quiet town tucked away in the Kiso valley, one of Japan’s most scenic regions, with rivers of melted snow, cedar forests and high mountain peaks. This former postal town lies on the ancient Nakasendo route between Tokyo and Kyoto, an important highway during the Tokugawa shogunate between the 17th and 19th centuries. Since then, the town has escaped the modernisation that has spread through much of Japan and conserved its heritage and historic buildings. A wander through the town’s streets will take you past small restaurants, craft workshops, Buddhist temples and Shinto shrines, offering an authentic glimpse into Japan’s past.
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Tsumago
JAPAN
Hokkaido Hiking in national parks • Coastal towns, sea cruises & lakes The lesser-visited northern Japanese island of Hokkaido is known for its scenery, lakes and mountains. The main entry point is the busy city of Sapporo, famous for its breweries. A short drive away is the charming fishing port of Otaru, while further north is the stunning Daisetsuzan National Park. Here you can visit the towering Sounkyo gorge and the nearby waterfalls of Ryusei-no-taki and Ginga-no-taki. Hikes can be made into the forest following the Asahidake Trail, notable for its mountain lakes, wild flowers and birdlife. Discover the northerly coastal town of Monbetsu and take a cruise on the Sea of Okhotsk, or visit the world’s first underwater drift ice observatory. In the far north-east, visit the Kushiro Shitsugen National Park, with excellent birdwatching in its wetlands and the possibility of spotting the distinctive red-crowned crane. Red-crowned cranes, Hokkaido
Kumamoto castle, Kumamoto
Okinawa
Kyushu
Japan’s Tropical Islands
Striking countryside & second world war history • Seven Stars luxury train journey
Islands of Ishigaki & Okinawa • Idyllic beaches & coral reefs
The southernmost of Japan’s four main islands, Kyushu has a mild climate, hot spring spas and beautiful national parks. The lively city of Kumamoto is home to the majestic Kumamoto castle and the spectacular Mount Aso, one of the world’s largest volcanic craters. Learn more about Japan’s recent past in Nagasaki, a pretty coastal town with a haunting second world war history. Pottery is one of Kyushu’s specialities; a tour of Kyushu’s pottery museum and a stop at Imari town to see its porcelain workshops is fascinating.
Okinawa is one of Japan’s southern prefectures and consists of a chain of hundreds of islands known as the Ryukyu islands, extending over 1,000km from Kyushu to Taiwan. Okinawa’s capital, Naha, is located in the southern part of the largest and most populous island, Okinawa island, which is approximately half-way between Kyushu and Taiwan. Okinawa is the home of karate and offers numerous stretches of beautiful beaches. Its outlying islands have some of the most abundant coral reefs in the world.
Take a trip on the Seven Stars luxury train, which travels on 2- or 4-day journeys around Kyushu’s five prefectures. The train has a European 1920s style with comfortable lounge cars and spacious cabins equipped with a shower, lavatory and air conditioning. Departures are scheduled throughout the year although limited; book in advance to ensure a reservation.
Ishigaki is the second largest of the Yaeyama islands, the westernmost part of the Okinawa chain of islands. It is the most populated of the Yaeyama islands and also the main transport and commercial centre. Ishigaki is known for its superb beaches, thought to be the best in Japan, such as the white sands of Sukuji. Find out more at coxandkings.co.uk or from your travel agent
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JAPAN
Experiences in Japan
Calligraphy class
Calligraphy class, Kyoto
Shodo, or 'the way of writing', is the art of Japanese calligraphy. Just as good handwriting is prized in the west, being skilful with a calligraphy brush to produce beautiful kanji characters is an important attribute that children begin to learn in primary school. However, with the widespread use of computers, this art form is being continued by fewer and fewer devotees. During a calligraphy class you will have the chance learn some basic skills, such as preparing black ink by grinding the ink stone across a tray and mixing it with a little water, try some basic kanji characters, and learn the three writing systems of kanji, hiragana and katakana that make up Japanese script.
Ikebana flower arranging, Kyoto
Ikebana is the Japanese art of flower arranging. It is an ancient art that has been practised for more than 600 years and stems from the Buddhist custom of offering flowers to the spirits of the dead. Unlike western styles of flower arranging, ikebana follows rules governing shape, line and form within which the floral artist can find personal expression. It is possible to take an ikebana flower-arranging lesson in a traditional geisha house with a licensed ikebana teacher in Kyoto. This is the ideal way to understand a little more about one of the most practised Japanese art forms.
Ikebana flower arranging
Pottery class, Kyoto
Japanese pottery, known as yakimono or ‘fired thing’, is famous around the world for its high quality and distinctive styles. In Kyoto, Cox & Kings can arrange for travellers to join a hands-on class at a local pottery studio where expert staff will guide participants through the making of a pot on a traditional potter’s wheel. Learn how to slap the clay and turn the wheel to mould a cup shape with your hands. After mastering the basic techniques, there are a number of different shapes and designs for you to try. Overalls and materials will be provided, and the studio can arrange to fire your work in a kiln, glaze it and have it shipped back home.
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Contact us on 020 7808 6786 or [email protected]
Japanese craftsman at work
JAPAN
Onsen (hot spring baths)
Bathe in natural hot springs (onsen)
The islands of Japan have more than 100 volcanoes and consequently a large number of natural hot springs. Bathing in these springs, known as onsen in Japanese, has become an integral part of Japanese culture. For many, Japanese communal bathing in hot spring baths is a way to connect with nature and one another and there is a range of communal bathhouses and huge onsen spa complexes throughout the country. For a more private experience, many ryokans (see page 50) have a kashikiri bath that can be used alone or as a family or couple, or in some cases rooms have private en suite hot spring baths.
Sumo wrestlers
Sumo stable visit, Tokyo
Sumo is the traditional sport of Japan, famed throughout the world for its enormous wrestlers. However, the sport is often misunderstood and the amount of athleticism, strength and pure determination required to succeed at the top level is rarely appreciated. A visit to the sumo stable to see the morning training, known as as a geiko, is designed to provide an insight into the lives of the sumo wrestlers and the training that is required to excel at this sport. Cox & Kings can also arrange for travellers to attend one of the big annual tournaments held in Tokyo, Fukuoka, Nagoya and Osaka. Dates vary so please ask for details.
Snow monkeys, Yudanaka
See the snow monkeys, Yudanaka
Jigokudani Yaen-Koen's Snow Monkey Park is home to wild Japanese macaques, which can often be seen soaking in the hot springs (onsen) in the valley. Japanese macaques live throughout Japan and are the most northerly living non-human primates. There are currently two groups living in the Snow Monkey Park and there are live webcams to capture their movements that are then posted onto a dedicated website. The pools where the monkeys can be seen bathing are reached via an hour-long walk in the mountains. Monkeys can be seen all year round, although there will only be snow on the ground during winter.
Maiko, Kyoto
Private audience with a maiko, Kyoto
In Kyoto, travellers can visit the house of a maiko (apprentice geisha) and take part in a tea ceremony. Most Japanese never have the opportunity to meet a geisha as this is an expensive experience usually reserved for visiting dignitaries or elite businessmen. Through links with a Gion tea house, Cox & Kings is able to offer a private audience with a maiko, who will entertain you in a tatami mat room with dances and a few traditional games over afternoon tea. With a translator on hand to assist, this experience is a unique opportunity to gain a fascinating understanding of this hidden world. Find out more at coxandkings.co.uk or from your travel agent
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JAPAN • TOURS
Japan’s Cultural Treasures Duration • 12 Days & 10 Nights Category • Superior
Group tour • From £5,795 Private tour • From £3,545 Days 8-9: Kyoto • Nara Morning visit to Ryoanji temple, famous for its zen rock garden, and the Kinkakuji temple (Golden Pavilion). Afternoon tour of the historic city of Nara. Return to Kyoto. Optional evening excursion to walk in the Gion geisha district. The following day is at leisure. (B)
Tour overview Discover the cultural heritage of Japan on this exciting journey through the country’s main island of Honshu. Visit the tranquil Kenroku-en garden and the castle of Kanazawa before exploring the imperial city of Kyoto with its many temples and shrines. Experience the sombre modern history of Hiroshima, then visit the picturesque island of Miyajima with its iconic Torii gate before finishing back in Tokyo.
Day 10: Hiroshima Morning departure to Hiroshima by train. Visit the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park where a short talk by a bomb attack survivor, or one of their relatives, has been arranged (subject to local conditions). Overnight at the Sheraton Hiroshima Hotel or the Hotel Granvia Hiroshima. (B, L)
C&K highlights • Stay in centrally located 4-star hotels • Direct flights with British Airways • Tea ceremony in Kyoto and watch gold leaf production in Kanazawa • Explore the temples, gardens and shrines of Kyoto and Nara • Tour the Hiroshima Peace Park with a talk by an A-bomb attack survivor • Tours conducted using private coach transport • Small group size – maximum 26 people
Weather Tokyo J F M A M J J A S O N D A 10 10 13 19 23 25 29 31 27 21 17 12 B 0
1
4
9 14 18 22 24 20 14 8
3
C 43 58 94 119 132 181 128 147 181 158 84 44
A: Maximum average temperature (C) B: Minimum average temperature (C) C: Average rainfall (mm)
Area Map
Mount Fuji with Chureito Pagoda in spring
Day 1: Fly to Tokyo Overnight flight from London (regional connections available) direct to Tokyo Haneda airport with British Airways. (N) Day 2: Tokyo Arrive and transfer to the Tokyo Marriott (or similar) for 3 nights. (N) Day 3: Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park Full-day excursion to the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park for views of Mount Fuji, a cruise on Lake Ashi and a ride on the Mount Komagatake Ropeway (cable car). (B, L) Day 4: Tokyo Full-day tour visiting Asakusa Kannon temple, Tokyo National Museum, the Imperial East Garden and the peaceful Meiji shrine. Lunch will be a kushiage meal of fried meat and vegetables. (B, L) Day 5: Kanazawa Morning departure by Shinkansen (bullet train) to Kanazawa. Visit Kanazawa castle and the Kenroku-en garden. Stay 2 nights at the Crowne Plaza ANA Kanazawa (or similar). (B, L) Day 6: Kanazawa • Shirakawago Visit the Omi fresh food market then stroll in the Higashi-Chayamachi district, home to various traditional buildings, before stopping at a workshop to observe the kinpaku process of gold leaf production. Afternoon excursion to Shirakawago to see the Unesco-listed gasshōzukuri houses and their unique architectural style. (B) Day 7: Kyoto Travel by bullet train to Kyoto. Visit Nijo castle and experience a traditional tea ceremony in a machiya (wooden townhouse). Stay 3 nights at the Kyoto Tokyu Hotel (or similar). (B, L)
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Day 11: Miyajima island • Tokyo Take the ferry over to Miyajima island and visit the Itsukushima shrine and the Torii gate. Return to the mainland and take the train back to Tokyo. Overnight at the Haneda Excel Hotel Tokyu. (B) Day 12: Fly to London Transfer to Haneda airport for the flight back to London. (B) Meal basis: As per itinerary – B: Breakfast, L: Lunch, D: Dinner, N: No meals.
Important information Group tour manager: This tour is fully escorted throughout by a local tour manager from arrival in Tokyo. Superior tour: This tour is based in 4-star accommodation. Please note that in Japan room sizes can be significantly smaller than in Europe. Please visit this tour on our website to see details of the hotels included. *Itinerary: Excursions on Days 3 and 4 may be switched, subject to local conditions. The itinerary above applies only to departures from April 2017 onwards. For January to March 2017, the itinerary includes similar excursions but is operated using flights via Hong Kong with Cathay Pacific and ends in Osaka instead of Tokyo. Private & tailor-made travel: This itinerary can be taken privately on a date that suits you, but note that the cost of travelling on a private basis rather than as a part of a group is significantly higher in Japan than in most countries. This is because of the very high costs of private guides and vehicles. To reduce costs, a similar itinerary can be booked using public transport and some self-guided excursions, for which guideline prices are shown. Please call 020 7808 6786 or email [email protected]
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Gateway to Nijo Castle, Kyoto
Guideline prices for 2017-18
Festival departures 18 & 25 March – Hanami (cherry blossoms) Hanami, literally meaning ‘flower viewing’, is the traditional Japanese custom of enjoying the blossoming cherry trees from March to early May, and specifically in Tokyo and Kyoto in early April. Cherry blossom can be seen on many of the excursions throughout the itinerary. 9 April – Takayama spring festival & cherry blossoms This is the annual festival of the Hie shrine in the southern half of Takayama’s old town, ranked as one of the most colourful festivals in Japan with decorated floats. On this departure, Day 6 will be an excursion to Takayama for the festival instead of Shirakawago. 4 October – Takayama autumn festival At the annual festival of the Hachiman shrine in the northern half of Takayama’s old town, colourful processions of elaborate floats are one of the main highlights. On this departure, Day 6 will be a trip to Takayama for the festival, instead of Shirakawago.
Tour code: JCT
Group tour Low season from £5,795 Guide price months: Mar 17
Private travel Low season from £3,545 Guide price months: Feb
High season from £6,395 Guide price months: Mar 18
High season from £3,995 Guide price months: Mar – Apr
Single supplement from £945
Single supplement: POA
The guideline high season prices may be significantly lower than the peak season prices (15 Dec – 03 Jan) roup tours include: International flights • Transfers • Experienced local tour manager / The best G local guides • All accommodation • All sightseeing described • All entrance fees • Meals as per itinerary British Airways flight upgrades World Traveller Plus from £495 return Club World from £3,295 return
Regional air connections Please speak to your consultant for details
The guideline tour prices are all per person in UK pounds, based on two people sharing a twin/double room. For current prices for all departure dates, including special offers when applicable, please call 020 7808 6786, email [email protected] or visit coxandkings.co.uk. All prices are subject to availability.
Departure dates for 2017-18 Out Rtn *18 Mar 17 29 Mar 17 *25 Mar 17 05 Apr 17
Out Rtn 09 Apr 17 20 Apr 17 04 Oct 17 15 Oct 17
Out Rtn 11 Nov 17 22 Nov 17 17 Mar 18 28 Mar 18
Out Rtn 24 Mar 18 04 Apr 18
Find out more at coxandkings.co.uk or from your travel agent
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JAPAN • TOURS
Highlights of Japan Duration • 10 Days & 8 Nights Category • Superior
Solo
Group tour • From £6,895
Tour overview Experience the best of Japan on this 10-day tour, travelling with a group of solo travellers and escorted throughout by an expert local guide. Alongside tours of Japan’s major sights and cities, including the gardens and temples of Kyoto, Hiroshima’s Peace Memorial Park and the scenic Miyajima island, sample a variety of Japanese cuisine, experience a traditional tea ceremony and cruise on the Sumida river through Tokyo.
C&K highlights • Twin / double rooms for single use in 4-star hotels • Welcome & farewell group dinners • Direct flights with British Airways • Tea ceremony & Japanese cooking class in Kyoto • A-bomb history in Hiroshima • Visit the soaring Tokyo Skytree tower • Small group size – maximum 18 people
Weather Kyoto
Cherry blossoms lining Meguro canal, Tokyo
J F M A M J J A S O N D A 6 6 10 17 22 25 29 30 26 20 14 8 B -2 -1 1
7 12 16 21 22 17 11 5
0
C 78 83 111 134 142 228 214 126 181 111 78 65
A: Maximum average temperature (C) B: Minimum average temperature (C) C: Average rainfall (mm)
Area Map
Day 1: Fly to Tokyo Overnight flight from London (regional connections available) direct to Tokyo with British Airways. (N)
Day 7: Hiroshima Morning departure for Hiroshima by bullet train. Visit the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park. Stay 2 nights at the Sheraton Hiroshima Hotel. (B, D)
Day 2: Tokyo You will be met on arrival and transferred to the Tokyo Marriott (or similar) for 2 nights. Early check in at the hotel, followed by a tour of Tokyo, including a cruise on the Sumida river. Welcome dinner. (L, D)
Day 8: Miyajima island Full-day tour to Miyajima island, visiting the Itsukushima shrine and the Torii gate. (B, D)
Day 3: Tokyo Morning tour of the Meiji shrine and Asakusa Kannon temple, followed by some time to browse the shops and food stalls along Nakamise shopping street. (B, D) Day 4: Kyoto Morning departure by Shinkansen (bullet train) to Kyoto. Visit Nijo castle, Nishiki food market and enjoy a traditional tea ceremony in a machiya (wooden townhouse). Stay 3 nights at the Kyoto Royal Hotel & Spa (or similar). (B, D) Days 5-6: Kyoto Full-day tour of Kyoto including Ryoanji temple with its famous Zen rock garden, and Kinkakuji temple, also known as the Golden Pavilion. Afternoon cooking class in Japanese cuisine and an optional evening walk in the Gion geisha district. The following day is at leisure. (B)
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Contact us on 020 7808 6786 or [email protected]
Day 9: Tokyo Bullet train journey to Tokyo. Afternoon at leisure, followed by an evening visit to the Tokyo Skytree. Overnight at the Haneda Excel Hotel Tokyu with a farewell dinner at the hotel. (B, D) Day 10: Fly to London Transfer to Haneda airport and fly to London with British Airways. (B) Meal basis: As per itinerary – B: Breakfast, L: Lunch, D: Dinner, N: No meals.
Important information Solo Travellers group tours: These small group tours have been specially created for single travellers. Benefits include single occupancy of double / twin rooms as standard and at sensible prices, plus the company of like-minded travellers. View the complete collection at coxandkings.co.uk/solo-travellers.
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Mount Fuji and green tea plantations
Group tour manager: This tour is fully escorted throughout by a local tour manager from arrival in Tokyo. Superior tour: This tour is based in 4-star accommodation. Please note that in Japan room sizes can be significantly smaller than in Europe. Please visit this tour on our website to see details of the hotels included.
Festival departures 23 March & 6 April departures – Hanami (cherry blossoms) Hanami, literally meaning ‘flower viewing’, is the traditional Japanese custom of enjoying the blossoming cherry trees from March to early May, in particular in Tokyo and Kyoto in early April. Cherry blossom can be seen on many of the excursions throughout the tours departing on 23 March and 6 April.
Guideline prices for 2017-18 Group tour Low season from £6,895 Guide price months: Mar
Tour code: JJS
High season from £7,795 Guide price months: Apr
roup tours include: International flights • Transfers • Experienced local tour manager / The best G local guides • All accommodation • All sightseeing described • All entrance fees • Meals as per itinerary British Airways flight upgrades World Traveller Plus from £495 return Club World from £3,295 return
Regional air connections Please speak to your consultant for details
The guideline tour prices are all per person in UK pounds, based on single occupancy of a twin/double room. For current prices for all departure dates, including special offers when applicable, please call 020 7808 6786, email [email protected] or visit coxandkings.co.uk.
Departure dates for 2017-18 Out 23 Mar 17
Rtn 01 Apr 17
Out 06 Apr 17
Rtn 15 Apr 17
Out 11 Oct 17
Rtn 20 Oct 17
Out 29 Mar 18
Rtn 07 Apr 18
Find out more at coxandkings.co.uk or from your travel agent
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JAPAN • TOURS
Japan Explorer Duration • 12 Days & 9 Nights Category • Superior
Private tour (self-guided) • From £3,895
Tour overview This 12-day itinerary combines privately guided excursions with self-guided touring so you can get the most from your visit while avoiding the high costs often incurred with private travel in Japan. Begin with a guided tour of Tokyo then travel south by rail to visit Kyoto’s temples and gardens and the nearby historic city of Nara. End the tour with a stay on Mount Koya, the centre of Shingon Buddhism.
C&K highlights • Fully guided tours of Tokyo, Kyoto and ancient Nara • Flexible touring to explore at your own pace • Travel by bullet train with a Japan Rail Pass • Explore Kyoto’s botanical garden and Golden Pavilion • Visit the holy Mount Koya and stay overnight at a temple • Overnight in a Japanese ryokan with a traditional kaiseki meal
Weather Kyoto
Fushimi Inari shrine, Kyoto
J F M A M J J A S O N D A 6 6 10 17 22 25 29 30 26 20 14 8 B -2 -1 1
7 12 16 21 22 17 11 5
0
C 78 83 111 134 142 228 214 126 181 111 78 65
A: Maximum average temperature (C) B: Minimum average temperature (C) C: Average rainfall (mm)
Area Map
Day 1: Fly to Tokyo (N) Day 2: Tokyo Arrive and transfer to the Park Hotel Tokyo for 2 nights. Evening tickets provided for the Tokyo Skytree. (N) Day 3: Tokyo Full-day private guided city tour using public transport, visiting the Asakusa Kannon temple, Tokyo National Museum’s Japanese gallery, the Imperial East Garden and the tranquil Meiji shrine. (B) Day 4: Kyoto Depart by bullet train to Kyoto. Afternoon to explore the Kyoto botanical garden at your own pace. Overnight at the Gion Yoshi-Ima ryokan (or similar), a traditional Japanese inn that serves a multi-course kaiseki evening meal. (B, D) Day 5: Kyoto Full-day private guided city tour using public transport. Recommendations include the Ryoanji temple with its famous zen rock garden and Kinkakuji temple, also known as the Golden Pavilion. Make your way to the Kyoto Hotel Okura for a 3-night stay. (B)
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Day 6: Kyoto At leisure to explore western Kyoto. Visit the Arashiyama district, including Togetsukyo (or ‘Moon Crossing Bridge’) and the Sagano bamboo grove. (B) Day 7: Nara Take an express train to the historic city of Nara with your private guide for a tour of Nara Park, visiting the Todaiji temple and Kasuga-taisha shrine. (B) Day 8: Mount Koya Take the train to Mount Koya via Osaka. Stay 2 nights at one of the larger temples. This is an excellent opportunity to learn more about monastic life and join the resident monks for morning prayers. (B, D) Day 9: Mount Koya Explore Mount Koya with Ms Noriko Matsuyama, a licensed English-speaking guide with more than 20 years’ experience guiding in the area. Visit the atmospheric Okunoin cemetery and the Kongobuji temple. (B, D) Day 10: Osaka Take an express train to Kyoto and then
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Todaji temple, Nara
continue to Osaka. Overnight at the Osaka Marriott Miyako Hotel. (B) Days 11-12: Fly home Take an overnight flight home and arrive the next day (B) Meal basis: As per itinerary – B: Breakfast, L: Lunch, D: Dinner, N: No meals.
Important information Locally escorted & self-guided tour: This tour is led in certain destinations en route by a local tour escort while in others it is self-guided. Superior tour: Based in 4-star hotel accommodation in Tokyo, Kyoto, Nara and Osaka. Please note that in Japan room sizes are smaller than in Europe. For more information
on staying in ryokans and shukubo (temple lodgings), see page 51, or visit this tour on our website to see details of the hotels included. Tailor-made travel: For a price quote based on alternative accommodation standards, to discuss flight options or to tailor this itinerary, please call 020 7808 6786 or email [email protected]. Private travel in Japan: Please note that tailor-made travel in Japan is unlike travel in any other Far East country due to the high costs of vehicle hire, drivers and guides. This means that engaging the services of a private guide and driver on a tailor-made journey is not always feasible and, as a result, sightseeing and travel between cities may involve public transport or shared services that are not exclusive to Cox & Kings. Furthermore, as English is not always spoken in areas away from the main tourist
destinations, a degree of independence and self-guiding may be required. A comprehensive information pack is provided before departure, with transport instructions and bilingual timetables, hotel addresses and maps, and a guide for each destination covering a wide range of topics from eating out to enjoying a hot spring bath.
Guideline prices for 2017 Low season from £3,895 Guide price months: Jan – Feb High season from £4,255 Guide price months: Mar – Apr The guideline high season prices may be significantly lower than the peak season prices (15 Dec – 03 Jan)
Find out more at coxandkings.co.uk or from your travel agent
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JAPAN • ACCOMMODATION
Hotel Collection This is a selection of our recommended hotels. Please see our website for more options.
Exceptional
Luxury
Luxury
The Mandarin Oriental, Tokyo
Park Hyatt Tokyo
Andaz Tokyo Toranomon Hills, Tokyo
Features:
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Luxury
Luxury
The Mandarin Oriental is an elegantly designed hotel occupying the top nine floors of Nihonbashi Mitsui Tower, offering stunning views over the Tokyo city skyline. All rooms are luxuriously appointed and tastefully decorated, blending futuristic design with a touch of Japanese style. The hotel also holds special events, such as cocktail evenings and helicopter tours. The hotel's restaurants are world class and some of the best in the country. 178 rooms, 10 bars & restaurants including a Michelin-starred restaurant, spa.
Located in Shinjuku district and occupying the top 14 floors of Shinjuku Park Tower, Park Hyatt Tokyo hotel is an elegant oasis of calm overlooking Tokyo and the Kanto plain, all the way to Mount Fuji. The hotel’s spacious rooms have an understated modern decor featuring subtle hues of green marble and granite while the spa and pool enjoy some of the best panoramic views in the city. The hotel is conveniently located close to Shinjuku station. 177 rooms, 3 restaurants, jazz bar, cocktail bar, patisserie, spa, swimming pool.
The Andaz Tokyo Toranomon Hills is located in the Toranomon business district, near the Shinbashi and Ginza areas of Tokyo. Rooms and suites have been designed to reflect the Japanese love of natural materials and textures, with features such as washi paper and natural woods. The rooms are also spacious for Tokyo, with a minimum of 50 sq metres of floor space. The hotel’s swimming pool has wonderful views overlooking the Imperial Palace. 164 rooms, 3 restaurants, rooftop bar, spa, swimming pool.
Superior
Palace Hotel, Tokyo
Ritz Carlton Hotel, Tokyo
Park Hotel, Tokyo
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Reopened in 2012, the historic Palace Hotel overlooks the grounds of the Imperial Palace in Tokyo’s central Marunouchi district. The Deluxe rooms face the ancient Otemon Gate and Uchibori Dori Avenue below and are fitted with floor-to-ceiling windows, separate seating area and open bathroom with separate soaking tub and shower. The Palatial Pursuits programme offers bespoke cultural experiences led by private guides. 290 rooms, 7 restaurants, 3 bars, spa.
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The Ritz-Carlton occupies the top nine floors of the 53-storey Midtown Tower in Tokyo's Roppongi district, an area home to foreign embassies, fashionable eateries and vibrant night life. Due to its location high in the Midtown Tower, all rooms enjoy uninterrupted panoramic views of the Tokyo skyline, while Club Level guests can take advantage of the luxurious Club Lounge. The hotel offers a number of fine dining experiences, including a Michelin-starred restaurant. 245 rooms, 3 restaurants, 2 bars, cafe, spa.
Contact us on 020 7808 6786 or [email protected]
The Park Hotel, a member of the Design Hotels portfolio, occupies the top floors of the Shiodome Media Tower, just a 10-minute walk from the peaceful Hamarikyu gardens. The hotel has a modern, artistic ambience and is centred around a high atrium with Japanese art on display in the lobby lounge and communal areas. A unique 'Artist in Hotel' project has transformed guestrooms with original artwork by local artists. 273 rooms, 2 restaurants, wine bar, cafe, spa.
ACCOMMODATION • JAPAN
This is a selection of our recommended hotels. Please see our website for more options.
Luxury
Luxury
Superior
The Hyatt Regency Kyoto
Ritz-Carlton, Kyoto
Osaka Marriott Miyako Hotel, Osaka
Features:
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This elegant hotel is located in the historic area of Higashiyama Shichijo. Rooms combine traditional Japanese design with modern luxuries, while the larger suites have high ceilings and a separate tatami living room. The hotel’s concierge team is on hand to assist with all your travel requests and can organise tours in Kyoto and the surrounding area. The Hyatt’s Japanese restaurant, Touzan, offers a range of light and healthy dishes using seasonal and local produce. 189 rooms & suites, 4 restaurants, patisserie, cafe, spa, yoga classes, Japanese garden.
Luxury
Opened in 2014, the luxurious Ritz-Carlton Kyoto has a superb location overlooking the Kamogawa river with views of the Higashiyama mountains. The hotel is within walking distance of the downtown shops and restaurants of Kawaramachi as well as the Gion and Pontocho geisha districts. A Japanese aesthetic features throughout the guestrooms, with traditional decor and local Kyoto crafts as well as river or mountain views. 134 rooms, 2 restaurants, bar, patisserie, spa.
Superior
The stylish and contemporary Osaka Marriott Miyako Hotel occupies floors 38 to 57 of the 60-floor Abeno Harukas cultural complex. The open-air outdoor plaza atrium on the 58th and 60th floors has a 360-degree, glass-enclosed observation deck to gain the best views of the city, Osaka Bay and the Ikoma mountains. The hotel’s contemporary rooms provide a comfortable stay with good views and modern amenities. 296 rooms & suites, top-floor teppanyaki restaurant, cocktail bar.
Superior
Hyatt Regency Hakone Resort & Spa, Hakone National Park
The Fujiya Hotel, Hakone National Park
Crowne Plaza ANA Kanazawa
Since opening its doors in 1878, the Fujiya Hotel has become world-renowned as one of Japan’s classic resort hotels, introducing Japanese culture to its guests. Consisting of five traditional Japanese houses, it rooms combine classical interior design and antique furnishings with a comfortable ambience. The Miyanoshita hot spring provides Hakone’s natural hot spring water to all the rooms.
Set in central Kanazawa next to the JR train station and the Ishikawa concert hall, the Crowne Plaza ANA Kanazawa is an ideal base from which to explore the city. Rooms are spacious, modern and comfortable. There are several dining options to choose from, including the 19th-floor Kaga teppanyaki restaurant and Sky Bar, which offer views out to the Sea of Japan, as well as a Chinese and a Japanese restaurant.
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Hyatt Regency Hakone Resort and Spa is located in the heart of Fuji Hakone Izu National Park, an area famous for its natural hot springs (onsen) and picturesque countryside from which the iconic Mount Fuji can be seen. Guestrooms are contemporary in design and each has either a balcony or sun terrace. The resort features its own spa facilities and natural hot spring baths. 80 rooms, 3 restaurants, coffee lounge & bar, spa, hot springs.
146 rooms, 2 restaurants, patisserie, hot springs, ornamental garden.
249 rooms, 4 restaurants, cafe, lounge bar, outdoor terrace.
Find out more at coxandkings.co.uk or from your travel agent
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JAPAN • ACCOMMODATION
Ryokans of Japan This is a selection of our recommended hotels. Please see our website for more options.
The origins of the ryokan, a traditional Japanese inn, can be traced back to the Nara period (710 – 784AD) as rest houses for travellers, with a tradition for good food and hospitality that continues today. Guestrooms are usually simply decorated, featuring tatami straw mats on which futon bedding is laid out in the evening, and a low table where a set dinner is normally served. This dinner is called kaiseki and is often a highlight of a ryokan stay, consisting of between six and 15 seasonal dishes. Ryokan features vary between properties, but many have onsen (hot spring) facilities with public and, occasionally, private hot spring baths. Many ryokans are notable for their location, with some set in the older, more traditional parts of town and others set within stunning natural landscapes. A stay at a ryokan is an ideal way to experience ancient Japanese culture. Here are a few of our favourites, or visit our website – coxandkings.co.uk – for more options.
Luxury
Gora Kadan, Hakone National Park
Gora Kadan, a member of the Relais & Chateaux collection, is located in the heart of the FujiHakone National Park, an area known for its beauty and hot springs. A traditional Japanese ryokan, designed to blend in with the nearby mountains, it combines Japanese tradition and impeccable service with modern elements. The mineral-rich hot spring water flows from two wells that feed the open-air baths.
Features:
39 rooms, open-air onsen, swimming pool, gym, sauna.
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Exceptional
Superior
Hoshinoya Kyoto
Tawaraya Ryokan, Kyoto
Features:
Features:
Reached by private boat, Hoshinoya Kyoto is an exclusive, country retreat in Kyoto with a picturesque location on the banks of the Hozugawa river. The Hoshinoya combines a traditional Japanese ryokan with the latest 21st-century architecture, with rooms furnished in a contemporary Japanese style including features such as hand-blocked wallpaper, sliding glass doors and picture windows. 25 rooms, spa, gardens, lounge, boat cruise excursions.
Superior
Iwaso Ryokan, Miyajima Island
With a wonderful setting next to a stream in the woodlands of Momijidani Park, the natural architecture and peace of Iwaso Ryokan complements the tranquillity of Miyajima island. It was built in 1893 in the miya-daiku style by the same craftsmen who built Japanese shrines. There are 42 Japanese-style rooms in three different buildings, a shared onsen and views across the island from the top floor balconies.
Features:
42 rooms, shared onsen, island views.
Contact us on 020 7808 6786 or [email protected]
Operating for 300 years, Tawaraya is Kyoto’s oldest ryokan and ideally located for exploring the city’s sights. The impressive guestbook includes names such as Marlon Brando and Alfred Hitchcock. Each room is decorated with ikebana flower arrangements and antiques. Guests can sample Japanese tea followed by an elaborate kaiseki dinner, use the natural onsen or perhaps pay a visit to the inn’s library. 18 rooms, onsen, traditional wooden baths, private gardens.
Good Standard
Ryokan Hanaougi Bettei Iiyama, Takayama
The Ryokan Hanaougi Bettei Iiyama is located just a short taxi ride from Takayama train station. Built using zelkova wood, this traditional inn offers hot spring baths and meals using delicious local ingredients from the surrounding mountain region. The beautiful Japanese-style en suite maisonette rooms are equipped with their own outdoor hot spring baths.
Features:
17 maisonette rooms with private onsen, kaiseki meal including Hida beef.
ACCOMMODATION • JAPAN
Unique Lodgings This is a selection of our recommended hotels. Please see our website for more options.
Exceptional
Exceptional
Superior
Hoshinoya Okinawa
Aman Tokyo
Hotel Claska, Tokyo
Features:
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Features:
Simple
Basic
The Hoshinoya Okinawa is one of the most exclusive accommodation names in Japan. This complex of luxury villas on the island of Taketomi combines traditional Okinawan architecture, such as red-tiled roofs and stone walls, with stylish modern interiors. With unspoilt beaches a short walk away and access to pristine coral reefs, Hoshinoya Okinawa is a true luxury getaway experience. 48 villas, restaurant, pool, spa, nightly local music performances.
Superior
Benesse House, Naoshima Island
Benesse House is located on Naoshima island in the Seto Inland Sea, the waters east of Honshu. Part of the larger Benesse Art site complex, the Benesse House incorporates a museum and a hotel, designed by renowned Japanese architect Tadao Ando. Accommodation is set within four buildings, named Museum, Oval, Park, and Beach, each providing an emphasis on a different aspect of the hotel. All have sea views.
Features:
69 rooms, restaurant, cafe, spa, art museum, art shop.
Aman Tokyo occupies the top six floors of the Otemachi Tower with views of the Imperial Palace gardens. A warm and exclusive sanctuary, Aman Tokyo draws its design inspiration from traditional Japanese residential structures, with classic Japanese materials such as timber, washi paper and stone blended with modern technology. The cafe here is the first in Tokyo to serve fresh seasonal sake. 84 rooms, restaurant, wine cellar, spa, yoga & pilates studio.
Hotel Claska is located in Tokyo’s trendy Meguro district, an area away from traditional sightseeing spots. It offers an authentic slice of Tokyo city life where young Tokyoites live and work. Hotel Claska’s design concept blends the building’s original 1960s fixtures with cutting-edge fashion. The 20 guestrooms are all individually designed by four different architects using materials from across Asia. 21 rooms, restaurant, art gallery, roof terrace, lobby lounge, bookshop.
Temple lodgings (Shukubo), Mount Koya
Minshuku, found throughout Japan
Located in Wakayama prefecture and easily reached from Osaka or Kyoto, Mount Koya is home to more than 100 monasteries surrounding the head temple of Kongobuji. Many of them offer lodgings, which are basic but provide an insight into everyday life here: rise early, avoid the crowds and join the monks at morning prayers.
Minshuku are family-operated bed and breakfast accommodation. They offer visitors a superb opportunity to meet and interact with local families and experience traditional Japanese lifestyle. Minshuku are typically located around tourist areas such as hot springs, ski resorts and in the mountains, such as in the Kiso valley. They are also often found in small rural towns or by the sea.
Features:
Features:
Meditation halls, onsen, tea rooms.
Traditional Japanese hospitality, authentic cuisine, charming locations.
Find out more at coxandkings.co.uk or from your travel agent
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Taiwan, Mongolia & S. Korea
Mongolia North Korea
Group tours • Tailor-made travel • Rail journeys
China South Korea Taiwan
Edging China’s expansive borders are the countries of Taiwan, Mongolia and South Korea, all offering fascinating cultures, awe-inspiring scenery and exciting off-the-beaten-track experiences. Taiwan is a relatively unexplored treasure with a tremendous diversity for a small island. Explore cosmopolitan cities and breathtaking scenery, experience exotic cultures and meet with hospitable people. Mongolia is for the more adventurous. One of the world’s last true wilderness destinations, the country has stunning desert, mountain and grassland steppe scenery, and a unique nomadic culture. South Korea, or ‘Land of the Morning Calm’, is a beautiful peninsula sprinkled with palaces, pagodas and fortresses. The mountainous interior features several dozen national parks while the exceptional coastline is dotted with more than 3,000 islands, most of which are uninhabited. Discover Taiwan, Mongolia & South Korea 54 Taiwan 56 Mongolia 58 South Korea
Small group & private tours 60 Taiwan: The Beautiful Island • Group or private 62 Mongolia: Land of Blue Sky • Group or private
Climate
Taiwan is a good year-round destination, although the summer months from June to August can be humid. Autumn is the driest season. The travelling season in Mongolia is short, lasting from May to September when the temperatures are at their warmest. The rainy season falls between July and September. South Korea experiences cold, sunny winters and warm, humid summers, when most of the rainfall occurs. The best time to travel is spring or autumn, when days are relatively mild and clear.
Image left: Golden eagle hunter, Mongolia
Taipei, Taiwan
Ulan Bator, Mongolia
J F M A M J J A S O N D
J F M A M J J A S O N D
A 17 18 20 24 27 30 32 32 30 26 23 19
A -16 -12 -3 8 16 21 22 21 15 7 -5 -14
B 11 11 13 17 20 22 24 24 22 19 16 13
B -28 -26 -17 -7 1
C 105 168 185 163 215 263 196 202 184 122 98 87
C 3 4 6 15 25 71 86 86 42 15 8 4
7
10 8
1
-7 -18 -25
Key: A: Maximum average temperature (C) B: Minimum average temperature (C) C: Average rainfall (mm)
Inspired to venture further afield? Browse our website to discover additional destinations, places to stay and itineraries; or speak to our Taiwan, Mongolia & Korea experts. t
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TAIWAN
Discover Taiwan Taipei Mix of Chinese, Japanese & western influences • Variety of cuisine Taiwan’s capital, Taipei, is a vibrant blend of traditional culture and cosmopolitan life. It was originally inhabited by aboriginal peoples until settlers from China moved into the area about 300 years ago. The two western districts of the city still retain evidence of these first settlers in the architecture and ceremonial activities that take place in the old streets and temples. More modern sights of the city include the National Palace Museum, which houses hundreds of thousands of Chinese antiques and art works, and the Taipei 101 Tower, one of the tallest buildings in the world. The eastern section of the city was developed from the 1970s onwards as a financial and commercial district. Today, its glass and steel skyscrapers are the modern face of Taipei.
Taroko National Park
Tainan
Visit the stunning Taroko gorge • Scenic mountain hiking trails
Taiwan’s oldest city • Historic architecture • Quaint streets to explore
Situated in the north-east of Taiwan, the Taroko National Park covers an area of more than 92,000 hectares of the Central Mountain Range. Enjoy landscapes of soaring mountains and steep gorges, with many peaks towering above 3,000 metres. Highlights include the spectacular Taroko gorge and the Liwu river, which can be seen from the central cross-island highway. There are also a number of rewarding day hikes in the park: the Taroko Gorge Trail follows the river’s course, visiting the Eternal Spring Shrine, Swallow Grotto and the Siangde temple, or try the more demanding Shakadang Trail, which is built along the river cliff so walkers can observe the rock formations and numerous plants.
Tainan is Taiwan’s oldest city, with a long history involving the Dutch, Japanese and Chinese, who left the city with many ancient relics to explore, some over 300 years old. Tainan has always maintained a rich tradition of arts and is also home to some of the finest examples of Taiwanese architecture, such as the Chinese-styled Chihkan Towers and the Confucian temple. Best explored on foot, wander through the narrow lanes to discover courtyards, walled gardens, chic cafes and tranquil teahouses, and stroll along Shennong Street (or Beishi Street), lined with well-preserved historic buildings that are now small shops, bars, art galleries and private houses.
Taroko National Park
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Raohe Street night market, Taipei
TAIWAN
C&K Recommends... Rail travel in Taiwan
Rail travel in Taiwan dates back to 1887, to the declining years of the Qing dynasty. Today, a modern rail system links most large towns and cities, including a high-speed train that operates between Taipei and Kaohsiung. Trains are generally comfortable and air conditioned, providing an excellent way to enjoy the mountain scenery, striking coastline and magnificent countryside. Of particular interest are the Neiwan line, which travels from Hsinchu to Neiwan; the Pingsi line, with views of crashing waterfalls and idyllic countryside; and the Jiji line, passing spectacular mountains and quaint villages. All three lines offer a special tourist ticket, which allows travellers to get on and off wherever they like. The East Coast Trunk Line System links Yilan, Hualien and Taitung with the high mountains on one side and the great expanse of the Pacific Ocean on the other.
The Taiwan Lantern Festival
The Taiwan Lantern Festival is an annual event held on the fifteenth day of the lunar calendar (11 February 2017). The festival is celebrated in different ways throughout the country: in Pingxi district thousands of lanterns are lit and float off into the sky, in Yanshui district firecrackers are set off in the Wumiao temple, and in Tainan there is a Yanshui fireworks display (‘beehive of fireworks’), held to ward off evil and disease from the town. Taiwanese lanterns
Penghu Islands Explore numerous temples • Snorkel among beautiful coral reefs The beautiful Penghu islands lie off the western cost of Taiwan in the Taiwan Strait. The sprawling archipelago consists of 90 small islands and islets spanning 60km north to south and 40km east to west. The largest and most populated islands are Penghu, Baisha and Si, which are all connected by bridges. Penghu is the main entry point for tourists and can be accessed by boat or aeroplane from mainland Taiwan. Snorkelling is a popular activity due to the amazing coral reefs and incredible marine life found here, or relax on the numerous white sandy beaches. There are also more than 165 temples and sites dotted across the islands – among the highest number in Taiwan. Penghu islands
A suggested itinerary...
Taiwan by Rail
12 Days & 10 Nights from £3,225 Explore Taiwan using the country’s excellent high-speed rail network to visit some of the main sights, combined with rides on scenic tourist trains. Day 1: Fly to Taipei (N) Day 2: Taipei Arrive and transfer to the Landis Hotel for 2 nights. (N) Day 3: Taipei Full-day guided tour of Taipei, including the National Palace Museum that displays a multitude of treasures removed from the Chinese mainland during the Cultural Revolution. (B, L) Days 4-5: Hsinchu City • Neiwan Take the high-speed train to Hsinchu City. Stay
2 nights at the Ambassador Hotel Hsinchu. The next day, enjoy a scenic ride along the Neiwan line to the former mining town of Neiwan, where you can sample traditional Hakka cuisine. (B, L) Days 6-7: Tainan Continue south on a high-speed train to Tainan and stay at Tayih Landis Hotel for 2 nights. The following day is at leisure to explore Taiwan’s cultural capital, home to the Chihkan Towers and the Confucian temple. (B) Day 8: Alishan Take a local train north-west to the city of Chiayi, then change to the Alishan Mountain Railway. This 3.5 -hour journey passes through the plains between Beimen and Zhuqi, then begins to climb slowly through the mountains via dramatic switchbacks. Overnight at the Alishan House Hotel. (B, D) Days 9-10: Kaohsiung Take the Alishan Forest Railway to a viewpoint to watch the sun rise over the Alishan Forest
Park. Drive to Kaohsiung city and stay 2 nights at The Howard Plaza Hotel. The following day is at leisure. (B) Day 11: Taipei Take the high-speed train north to Taipei. Overnight at the Landis Hotel. (B) Day 12: Fly home (N) Guideline Prices Low season from: £3,225 (Jan – Mar) High season from: £3,495 (Dec)
Tailored travel
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020 7808 6786 [email protected]
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MONGOLIA
Discover Mongolia
Gandan monastery, Ulan Bator
Herd of camels grazing, Gobi desert
Ulan Bator
The Gobi Desert
Remnants of Soviet rule • Museums & monasteries
Stunning natural landscapes • Rare wildlife & birds
The capital of Mongolia is set in a green valley fringed with mountains, with a compact centre set around Chinggis Square. Previously a nomadic settlement in keeping with Mongolian lifestyle, the city’s current location was founded in 1778 and later became known as Ulan Bator (‘Red Hero’) when it came under Soviet control in 1924. The Soviet influence is still apparent in the apartment blocks, power stations and factories on the outskirts. Places of interest include the Zanabazar Museum of Fine Arts, Gandan monastery and the National History Museum. Zaisan Memorial, in honour of Soviet soldiers killed in the second world war, stands high in the hills above town and is worth a visit for views over the city and the landscape beyond.
The Gobi Gurvansaikhan National Park in southern Mongolia is where the Gobi desert truly begins. Discover not only the classic landscapes of sand dunes and red cliffs but also green valleys, steep mountains, nomadic herds and wildlife. There are many sites of interest. Yol valley, known locally as Yolyn Am and often also called Eagle or Vulture Valley, is named after the magnificent lammergeiers (bearded vultures) sometimes seen here. The scenery is superb, with steep cliffs, high mountains and green hillsides. The sand dunes of Khongoryn Els, located on the northern slopes of the Sevrei and Zuulun mountains, stretch for 180km and are around 20 metres high in places, seeming to appear out of nowhere.
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MONGOLIA
Lake Khövsgöl
C&K Recommends...
Boat trips & lakeside walks • Tribal culture near Murun Khövsgöl is a huge lake in the north of Mongolia, close to the border with Russia and reached by a 1.5-hour flight from Ulan Bator to Murun town, then a 2.5-hour drive. Known as the ‘dark-blue pearl of Mongolia’ for its deep-blue waters, the lake is 136km long and 262 metres deep in places, and is thought to hold 1% of the world’s freshwater supply. Using a ger camp as a base, the surrounding area is best explored on foot, where rare medicinal herbs and wildflowers can be found in nearby meadows, or boat trips and horse rides can be arranged. Scattered around the lake are small ger settlements, home to the ethnic minority groups of the Buryat, Darkhat and Tsataan (reindeer herders).
Staying in a Ger camp
Ger is the Mongolian word for a yurt, the portable, wooden-framed and felt-covered tents used by nomads in the steppes of Central Asia. Facilities are basic but this is a fascinating opportunity to experience and learn about nomadic culture. Stay in the Gurvanbulag Community Ger Camp, run by a trained team of local community members. Learn nomadic skills such as tying a halter, hobbling and saddling a horse and making dairy products. Dinner is often a khorkhog, a Mongolian barbecue of meat grilled on hot stones. For the brave there is the chance to sample airag (fermented mares’ milk). For those who prefer more modern comforts, the Three Camel Lodge offers 20 de luxe ger tents in the heart of the Gobi desert. Each tent has a private bathroom, king-sized bed, and unobstructed views of the desert and mountains. Little luxuries include felt slippers and Mongolian-styled bathrobes; there is even a small spa. Upgrades are available to gers with private showers.
Three Camel Lodge
Couple in traditional clothing in front of a ger
A suggested itinerary...
Spirit of Mongolia
12 Days & 10 Nights from £6,295 Explore Mongolia staying in luxury accommodation in Ulan Bator, the Three Camel Lodge in the Gobi desert and a nomad’s camp on the Mongolian steppe. Visit Mongolia’s iconic sights, including the Flaming Cliffs, the Eagle Valley and the Moltsog sand dunes. Day 1: Fly to Ulan Bator via Seoul (N) Day 2: Ulan Bator Arrive in Ulan Bator and stay at the Kempinski Hotel Khan Palace or the Shangri-La Hotel, Ulan Bator for 2 nights. (N) Day 3: Ulan Bator Visit the Gandan monastery, the National Museum, Chinggis Square and the Winter Palace of the Bogd Khan. Evening traditional music performance. (B, L, D)
Day 4: Gurvanbulag Travel east to the Gurvanbulag Community Ger Camp to gain an insight into the nomadic lifestyle. Stay 2 nights in a ger. (B, L, D) Day 5: Gurvanbulag Spend the day with the nomads and watch them catch horses using an uurga – a traditional wooden lasso. (B, L, D) Day 6: Khustain Nuruu • Ulan Bator Return via the Khustain Nuruu National Park, the home of the takhi (Przewalski’s horse). Continue to the Kempinski Hotel Khan Palace for a 1-night stay. (B, L, D) Day 7: Fly to the Gobi desert Fly south to Dalanzadgad, and drive to the Gobi Gurvansaikhan National Park. Stay 3 nights at the Three Camel Lodge. (B, L, D) Day 8: Eagle (Yol) Valley Continue to Eagle Valley. Visit the Gobi glacier en route (subject to environmental conditions). (B, L, D) Day 9: The Flaming Cliffs • Moltsog Els Drive north to an area known as Bayanzag,
famous for its red cliffs of sandstone rock, and Moltsog Els, one of the few regions of the Gobi desert covered by large sand dunes. (B, L, D) Day 10: Fly to Ulan Bator Drive to Dalanzadgad and fly to Ulan Bator. Overnight at Kempinski Hotel Khan Palace. (B, L, D) Day 11: Fly to Seoul Late evening flight to Seoul. Overnight at the airport transit hotel. (B, L, D) Day 12: Fly to London (B) Guideline Prices: Low season from £6,295 (Apr – May) High season from £7,495 (Jul)
Tailored travel
Contact our experts t e
020 7808 6786 [email protected]
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SOUTH KOREA
Discover South Korea
Gyeongbokgung Palace, Seoul
Seoul, South Korea
Seoul
Gyeongju
Energetic, modern city • Hidden historical buildings • A variety of cuisine
Cultural heart of South Korea • Ancient Silla history & architecture
Seoul bears the distinct stamp of the 21st century, with 12-lane motorways and glass skyscrapers, yet hidden away are ancient temples that were spared destruction during the Korean war. North of the city centre, the Palace Quarter is home to 600 years of history and culture of the Joseon dynasty, including the Royal Palaces and the Bukchon Hanok village. Further south towards the Han river are the Itaewon and Insadong districts with many restaurants, while across the river is fashionable Gangnam, notable for high-end shopping, and entertainment.
Known as a ‘museum without walls’, Gyeongju is a beautiful city with a history stretching back over 2,000 years. It was capital of the ancient Silla kingdom for a thousand years from around 50BC and the city is dotted with ancient buildings, temples and the large tombs of the Silla monarchs. In the last 30 years many of the historical sites have been restored and all of the new construction has been kept in the traditional style. A man-made lake is located below the old fortress of Myonhwal-san, east of Gyeongju.
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SOUTH KOREA
Bulguksa temple, Gyeongju © Korea Tourism Organisation
Traditional Korean architecture, Bukchon Hanok Village, Seoul
The Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) & Panmunjom Unique history • Views into North Korea The Demilitarized Zone (DMZ), a 4-km-wide and 248-km-long division of land between north and south, is the most heavily fortified border in the world. The Dora observatory allows visitors to see North Korean military personnel as well as great views of Kaesong, Geumgangsan Diamond Mountains and the renowned propaganda village, Gijeong-dong. Panmunjom is on the northern side of the Military Demarcation Line and is the only place within the DMZ that visitors are allowed to visit. It was here that the 1953 Korean Armistice Agreement was signed.
C&K Recommends... Overnight stay at a traditional hanok house in Seoul
Hanok buildings are designed with their natural surroundings and the seasons in mind, a principle called baesanimsu. The ideal house is built with a mountain to the back and a river to the front, with an ondol heated rock system for cold winters and daecheong front porch for hot summers. Stay in a hanok at the Rak-Ko-Jae Boutique Hotel, situated in Seoul’s historic Bukchon Hanok village. The three rooms are set around a peaceful feng shui pebble garden and are traditionally styled with sleeping mats and no television. Gyeongbok Palace
A suggested itinerary...
Wonders of South Korea
10 Days & 8 Nights from £3,695 Visit Seoul, the mountains, waterfalls and temples of Songnisan National Park, the ancient capital of Gyeongju, and the port town of Busan. Day 1: Fly to Seoul (N) Day 2: Seoul Arrive and transfer to the Grand Ambassador Seoul for 3 nights. (N) Day 3: Seoul Full-day tour of Seoul, including Gyeongbok Palace, the Folklore Museum, the Blue House, Namdaemun market, Seoul Tower and the hanok traditional village. (B, L) Day 4: Panmunjom & DMZ Optional full-day tour of Panmunjom and the
Demilitarised Zone (DMZ), visiting the Dora observatory, Panmunjom – also known as ‘the Truce Village’ where the 1953 Armistice Agreement was signed – and the Peace Talks House. (B) Day 5: Songnisan Leave Seoul for Songnisan National Park and visit Beopjusa temple. Stay overnight at Lake Hills Hotel. (B, L) Day 6: Gyeongju Morning drive to Gyeongju. In the afternoon, visit Cheomseongdae astronomical observatory, Royal Tumuli Park and the National Museum. Stay at Hotel Hyundai Gyeongju for 2 nights. (B, L) Day 7: Gyeongju Visit the Gwaeneung royal tomb, the Bulguksa temple and the Seogguram grotto. (B, L) Day 8: Busan Morning drive to Busan. Visit Geumjeong mountain, a popular walking area, and discover the Beomeosa temple. Return to the city and
explore Jagalchi market, South Korea’s largest seafood market. Visit a local restaurant for fresh sashimi or hotpot. Overnight at the Westin Chosun Busan or Hyatt Busan. (B, L) Day 9: Seoul Early morning train back to Seoul. Overnight at the Grand Ambassador Seoul. (B) Day 10: Fly home (B) Guideline Prices: Low season from £3,695 (May) High season from £4,125 (Jul – Aug)
Tailored travel
Contact our experts t e
020 7808 6786 [email protected]
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TAIWAN • TOURS
Taiwan: The Beautiful Island Duration • 11 Days & 9 Nights Category • Superior
Group tour • From £2,795 Private tour • From £3,295
Tour overview Early Portuguese sailors named Taiwan Ilha Formosa, meaning ‘beautiful island’, due to the breathtaking scenery, which still impresses modern visitors today. The energetic capital, Taipei, is home to possibly the best collection of Chinese artefacts in the world, while Tainan showcases Taiwanese architecture. The countryside is perhaps the biggest surprise, with deep gorges, snow-capped mountains, hot springs and tea plantations. Taipei skyline
C&K highlights • Staying in 4- and 5-star hotels, including the luxurious Lalu hotel • Overnight at the Fo Guang Shan monastery and join the monks for prayers • Discover ancient Chinese treasures at the National Palace Museum • Scenic cruise on Sun Moon Lake • Follow nature trails in stunning national parks • Small group size – maximum 26
Weather Taipei J F M A M J J A S O N D A 17 18 20 24 27 30 32 32 30 26 23 19 B 11 11 13 17 20 22 24 24 22 19 16 13 C 105 168 185 163 215 263 196 202 184 122 98 87
A: Maximum average temperature (C) B: Minimum average temperature (C) C: Average rainfall (mm)
Area Map
Day 1: Fly to Taipei via Hong Kong Fly from London (regional connections available) to Taipei via Hong Kong with Cathay Pacific. (N) Day 2: Taipei Arrive and transfer to The Landis hotel for 2 nights. Welcome dinner at a local restaurant. (D) Day 3: Taipei Full-day tour of Taipei, including the National Palace Museum, National Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall, Martyrs’ Shrine and Longshan temple. Optional evening visit to the Chinese opera. (B, L) Day 4: Yilan • Taroko Drive to Taroko* passing through the hilly tea estates of Yilan, stopping en route to sample some local tea. Stay 2 nights at Silks Place Taroko. (B) Day 5: Taroko gorge Morning tour of the remarkable Taroko gorge, visiting the Eternal Spring shrine, Swallow Grotto and the Siangde temple. Optional afternoon walk on the Shakadang trail. (B) Days 6-7: Sun Moon Lake Drive on the Central Cross-Island Highway to the atmospheric Sun Moon Lake for a 2-night stay at The Lalu hotel. The following day take a short boat excursion on the lake, then visit the Wenwu temple and the Tse-en pagoda. (B) Day 8: Alishan Drive to Alishan Forest Park, one of the most spectacular mountainous regions of Taiwan. Afternoon walk in the Alishan Forest Park. Overnight at Alishan House. (B, D) Day 9: Tainan • Fo Guang Shan monastery Optional early morning ride on the Alishan Forest Railway to see the sunrise (weather permitting) from the summit of Mount Alishan.
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After breakfast, drive to Tainan and visit the Chihkan Towers and the Confucian temple, then proceed to Fo Guang Shan, the largest Buddhist monastery in south-east Asia. Stay overnight at the monastery guesthouse†. (B, D) Day 10: Kaohsiung • Meinong • Taipei Option to rise early and join the monks for morning prayers, then drive to Kaohsiung city and the village of Meinong, known for its oilpaper umbrellas. Train to Taipei. Stay overnight at The Landis hotel. (B) Day 11: Fly to London via Hong Kong Fly to London via Hong Kong with Cathay Pacific. (B) Meal basis: As per itinerary – B: Breakfast, L: Lunch, D: Dinner, N: No meals.
Extension Tour + Hong Kong 4 Days & 3 Nights from £XXX Hong Kong, enclosed by the Pearl river delta and South China Sea, is known for its culture, cuisine, shopping and magnificent skyline. But it also holds many surprises, with spectacular rural scenery, the beautiful bays of Sai Kung and many quiet outlying islands. Day 11: Fly to Hong Kong Fly to Hong Kong and transfer to The Royal Pacific Hotel & Towers (please see page 33 for more hotel options) for a 3-night stay. (B) Day 12: Hong Kong Morning tour of Hong Kong Island. (B) Day 13: Hong Kong Day at leisure to explore the city, go shopping or take a day trip to Macau. (B) Day 14: Fly to London Transfer to the airport and fly to London. (B)
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Alishan landscape
Guideline prices for 2017-18
Important information Group tour manager: This tour is fully escorted throughout by a local tour manager from arrival in Taipei. Superior tour: This tour is based in 4- and 5-star accommodation. Please visit this tour on our website to see details of the hotels included. *Transport to Taroko: Please note that due to local weather conditions the journey to Taroko may need to be taken by train instead, in which case the visit to Yilan will not be possible. Fo Guang Shan monastery: Overnight stays at the Fo Guang Shan monastery are subject to availability. If an unscheduled event is being held at the monastery, a night at a Kaohsiung City hotel will be provided instead. †
Private & tailor-made travel: This itinerary can be taken privately on a date that suits you, for which guideline prices are shown. Alternatively, it can be tailored to your exact requirements. Please call 020 7808 6786 or email [email protected].
Tour code: TWP
Group tour Low season from £2,795 Guide price months: Sep 17
Private travel Low season from £3,295 Guide price months: May
High season from £3,095 Guide price months: Mar 18
High season from £3,495 Guide price months: Oct
Single supplement from £895
Single supplement: POA
The guideline high season prices may be significantly lower than the peak season prices (15 Dec – 08 Jan) roup tours include: International flights • Transfers • Experienced local tour manager / The best G local guides • All accommodation • All sightseeing described • All entrance fees • Meals as per itinerary Cathay Pacific flight upgrades Premium Economy from £1,255 return Business Class from £3,195 return
Regional air connections Please speak to your consultant for details
The guideline tour prices are all per person in UK pounds, based on two people sharing a twin/double room. For current prices for all departure dates, including special offers when applicable, please call 020 7808 6786, email [email protected] or visit coxandkings.co.uk. All prices are subject to availability.
Departure dates for 2017-18 Out 09 Mar 17 04 May 17
Rtn 19 Mar 17 14 May 17
Out 21 Sep 17 02 Nov 17
Rtn 01 Oct 17 12 Nov 17
Out 08 Mar 18
Rtn 18 Mar 18
Find out more at coxandkings.co.uk or from your travel agent
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MONGOLIA • TOURS
Mongolia: Land of Blue Sky Duration • 16 Days & 14 Nights Category • Discovery
Group tour • From £3,695 Private tour • From £3,895 evening, visit a family of camel breeders for an opportunity to try camel riding. (B, L, D)
Tour overview
Day 7: The Flaming Cliffs Today you will see the striking scenery of the Flaming Cliffs, where many dinosaur fossil discoveries have been made. (B, L, D)
Mongolia is a vast country with spectacular natural beauty, largely untouched by the modern world. From the Gobi desert to snow-capped mountains and grassy steppes where wild horses and nomads roam, this is one of the world’s last great wilderness regions. Experience nomadic culture on this tour, staying in gers and sampling nomadic food. Each tour date coincides with a Mongolian festival, where you can experience lively cultural displays and see traditional skills in action.
Day 8: Ongiin Khiid monastery Drive to Saikhan Ovoo where the mountainside remains of the Ongiin Khiid monastery can still be visited. Founded in the 17th century, it was destroyed under communist rule and is now is slowly being rebuilt. (B, L, D) Day 9: Karakorum Established by Genghis Khan in 1220 as the capital of the Mongolian empire, in its heyday Karakorum was a cosmopolitan city filled with traders and surrounded by huge walls. Little remains today, but visits to the museum and Erdene Zuu monastery are informative. (B, L, D)
C&K highlights • Stay in traditional ger camp accommodation • Learn Mongolian archery, horse riding and how to erect a ger • Explore the sand dunes, canyons and mountains of the Gobi desert • Fossil hunting beneath the dramatic scenery of the Flaming Cliffs • Experience local culture at a traditional festival • Small group size – maximum 26 people
Weather Ulan Bator J F M A M J J A S O N D A -12 -3 8 16 21 22 21 15 7 -5 -14 B -26 -17 -7
1
7 10 8
1 -7 -18 -25
C 4 6 15 25 71 86 86 42 15 8 4
A: Maximum average temperature (C) B: Minimum average temperature (C) C: Average rainfall (mm)
Area Map
Young boy herding sheep
Day 1: Fly to Ulan Bator via Seoul Evening flight from London (regional connections available) to Ulan Bator with Korean Air, via Seoul. (N) Day 2: Ulan Bator Arrive in Ulan Bator and stay at the Premium Hotel (or similar) for 1 night. Evening traditional music performance and welcome dinner. (D) Day 3: Terelj National Park Travel to Terelj National Park. Take a short walk to a Buddhist monastery, with the chance to spot some of the 250 bird species recorded here. Throughout the journey in the Mongolian wilderness, accommodation will be in ger camps. (B, L, D) Day 4: Baga Gazriin Chuluu mountains Continue south to Gazriin Chuluu, a picturesque mountain in the granite belt of Mongolia. Stop en route for a picnic lunch in a scenic spot. (B, L, D) Day 5: The Gobi desert Venture into the Gobi desert and the Gurvansaikhan National Park, home to rare species such as the Argali sheep and snow leopards. (B, L, D) Day 6: Eagle Valley • Khongoryn Els sand dunes Today explore the Yol valley, a steep-sided canyon also known as Eagle or Vulture Valley. Visit the Gobi glacier en route (subject to environmental conditions). Continue to the towering sand dunes of Khongoryn Els, which demonstrate the ‘singing’ or ‘roaring’ sands phenomenon when blown by the wind. In the
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Days 10-11: Gurvanbulag community Travel to the Gurvanbulag nomad community and gain an insight into the nomadic lifestyle by watching and participating in various activities. See the making of dairy products, herding of animals and training of untamed horses. A khorkhog, a Mongolian barbecue of meat grilled over hot stones, and airag, fermented mares milk, can be sampled here. (B, L, D) Day 12: Ulan Bator Return to Ulan Bator. Stay at the Premium Hotel (or similar) for 3 nights. (B, L, D) Day 13: Nadaam festival opening ceremony Visit the National Sports Stadium for the festival’s grand opening ceremony. Afternoon visit to the Gandan monastery. (B, L, D) Day 14: Nadaam festival Watch the horse racing just outside the city, where 200 to 300 riders compete in the races over a distance of 15-35km. Return to the National Stadium for the final rounds of the wrestling competition. (B, L, D) Day 15: Fly to Seoul Tour of the Zanabazar Museum of Fine Arts, the National Museum and Chinggis Square. Late evening flight to Seoul. (B, L, D) Day 16: Fly to London Early morning arrival in Seoul, where you will have use of a room at the transit hotel. Fly to London with Korean Air. (N) Meal basis: As per itinerary – B: Breakfast, L: Lunch, D: Dinner, N: No meals.
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Traditional ger tent, Mongolia
Extension Seoul City Break 3 Days & 2 Nights from £845 With an overnight stop in Seoul essential due to flight connections on the return to London, we recommend extending your time here to explore the South Korean capital. Day 16: Seoul Early morning arrival in Seoul and transfer to the Grand Ambassador Hotel for 2 nights. (N) Day 17: Seoul Full-day tour including Gyeongbok Palace, the Folklore Museum, Namdaemun market and Hanok traditional village. (B, L) Day 18: Fly to London Transfer to the airport and fly to London with Korean Air. (B)
Important information Group tour manager: This tour is fully escorted throughout by a local tour manager from arrival in Ulan Bator. Discovery tour: Accommodation is basic and, with the exception of accommodation in Ulan Bator, you will stay in gers – large, traditional, heated tents with communal bathrooms. See page 57 for more details or visit this tour on our website to see details of the accommodation included. Most days involve travelling for long distances in 4x4 minivans, sometimes over rough terrain. Itinerary: The itinerary featured is for 29 June departure. Please see ‘Festival Departures’ for details on the other departure dates or speak to a tour consultant. Weather: During the tour in September the weather can be cold, between 5C to 10C in the day and dipping below 0C at night.
Private & tailor-made travel: This itinerary can be taken privately on a date that suits you, for which guideline prices are shown for travel outside the festival periods. Alternatively, it can be tailored to your exact requirements. Please call 020 7808 6786 or email [email protected].
Festival departures 29 June & 9 July: Nadaam festival Dating from the Genghis Khan era, the Nadaam festival is a showcase for traditional sporting events and a celebration enjoyed throughout Mongolia from 11 to 13 July. Ulan Bator comes
alive with people from all over the country gathering for the annual games. The 29 June departure will include the colourful opening ceremony and the first day of the festival at the end of the tour. The 9 July departure will include these events at the beginning of the tour. 30 September: Golden Eagle festival The Golden Eagle festival is a wonderful opportunity to see traditional local life. It is held in Ulgii, a town in the far west of Mongolia near the border with Kazakhstan. Kazakh eagle hunters, known as burkitshi, show off their handling skills and their magnificent birds with prizes awarded for exceptional displays of speed, agility and accuracy.
Guideline prices for 2017
Tour code: MNG
Group tour Low season from £3,695 Guide price months: Jul
Private travel Low season from £3,895 Guide price months: May – Apr
High season from £4,195 Guide price months: Sep
High season from £4,195 Guide price months: Jul
Single supplement from £495
Single supplemen: POA
roup tours include: International flights • Transfers • Experienced local tour manager / The best G local guides • All accommodation • All sightseeing described • All entrance fees • Meals as per itinerary Korean Air flight upgrades Business Class from £1,695 return
Regional air connections Please speak to your consultant for details
The guideline tour prices are all per person in UK pounds, based on two people sharing a twin/double room. For current prices for all departure dates, including special offers when applicable, please call 020 7808 6786, email [email protected] or visit coxandkings.co.uk. All prices are subject to availability.
Departure dates for 2017 Out 29 Jun 17
Rtn 14 Jul 17
Out 09 Jul 17
Rtn 24 Jul 17
Out 30 Sep 17
Rtn 15 Oct 17
Find out more at coxandkings.co.uk or from your travel agent
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Burma Group tours • Tailor-made travel • River cruising
Vietnam
Burma
Laos
Thailand
Burma, or Myanmar as it is now known, is one of most fascinating destinations in the Far East, a country relatively new to tourism as a result of decades of isolation imposed by a military dictatorship. Step back in time to a land with a long history and diverse ethnic mix where the influence of the western world has not yet made its mark.
Cambodia
Life carries on here as it has done for centuries: in Rangoon (Yangon), the largest city, locals stroll the street in traditional dress, around Inle Lake the fishermen still practise leg-rowing, hill tribe minorities continue to exist in the remote villages of Kalaw and strong Buddhist roots are apparent in the shimmering temples and crimson-robed monks. One of the best ways to see local life is by sailing the impressive Irrawaddy and Chindwin rivers, gaining access to villages that are otherwise inaccessible. 66 67 68 69 70 76
Discover Burma Rangoon (Yangon) & Mandalay Pagan (Bagan) Inle Lake Maymyo (Pyin Oo Lwin), Kalaw & Moulmein Ngapali Beach, the Golden Rock Pagoda & Mount Popa River Cruising
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Small group & private tours The Golden Land of Burma • Group or private Burma Discovery • Solo Travellers tour The Irrawaddy in Style • River cruise The Upper Irrawaddy: Pandaw Cruises • River cruise
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Places to stay – our suggestions Hotel Collection
Climate
April is very hot and dry, followed by the rainy season from May to September, during which time some resorts close. The best time to visit is therefore from November to March when it is a bit cooler and drier.
Image left: Temples in Pagan (Bagan)
Rangoon (Yangon)
Mandalay
J F M A M J J A S O N D
J F M A M J J A S O N D
A 32 35 36 37 33 30 30 30 30 32 32 32
A 29 32 36 38 37 34 34 33 33 32 30 28
B 18 19 22 24 25 24 24 24 24 24 22 19
B 13 15 20 24 26 26 26 25 25 24 20 15
C 5
C 4 2 1 37 140 123 74 130 155 177 39 7
2
6 17 307 567 577 624 381 206 62 7
Key: A: Maximum average temperature (C) B: Minimum average temperature (C) C: Average rainfall (mm)
Inspired to venture further afield? Browse our website to discover additional destinations, places to stay and itineraries; or speak to our Burma experts. t
020 7808 6786
e
[email protected]
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coxandkings.co.uk
Find out more at coxandkings.co.uk or from your travel agent
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BURMA
Discover Burma
Shwezigon pagoda, Pagan
Kuthodaw temple, Mandalay
Rangoon
Mandalay
Sacred Shwedagon pagoda • British colonial history & architecture
Magnificent palace & fort • Access to Burma’s ancient capital cities
Burma’s former capital and its biggest city, Rangoon (Yangon), became the capital in 1885 when the British completed their conquest of northern Burma. In its early history it was known as Dagon, the district in which the magnificent Shwedagon pagoda is located. The capital was moved to Nay Pyi Taw in central Burma quite unexpectedly in 2005, but Rangoon remains the commercial and diplomatic capital, as well as being home to some of the country’s best hotels and restaurants.
Located on a wide bend of the Irrawaddy river, Mandalay is Burma’s second largest city and the last royal capital before the British occupation when the royal family was forced to flee to India. Throughout the colonial era, Mandalay was the centre of Burmese culture and Buddhist learning and there are still many temples and monastic schools. The ancient capitals of Inwa (Ava) and Amarapura are a short drive away and provide a glimpse into Burma’s majestic past.
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BURMA
Pagan Temples, pagodas & stupas • Explore by bike or private vehicle Situated in the dry central plains of Burma on the banks of the Irrawaddy river, Pagan (Bagan) is the capital of many ancient kingdoms in Burma. The area is now a historical site, known as Pagan Archaeological Zone, and is one of Burma’s top tourist destinations, with more than 2,000 temples and pagodas covering an area of 67 sq km. With an expert local guide and private vehicle you can explore a wide range of temples and pagodas, and while it is impossible to visit them all, at least 2 days are recommended to get the most from your visit. The Ananda temple is arguably the most beautiful temple in Pagan and a masterpiece of Mon architecture. Built around 1105AD, it is the largest, best preserved and most revered of all the temples here. Dhammayangyi temple, built around 1170AD, is also one of the larger structures in Pagan and has a similar architectural plan to Ananda temple. The tallest temple is Htilominlo, with a height of 46 metres, known for its elaborate plaster mouldings and Buddha statues. Of the many pagodas, the beautiful, golden Shwezigon pagoda is an important religious shrine for Theravada Buddhism and is said to contain one of the four replicas of the Buddha's tooth kept in Kandy, Sri Lanka. For a change from the temples, your guide can also take you to lacquerware workshops to see the complex process involved in making beautiful boxes, plates and bowls, or visit small villages and markets for a taste of local life. Hot air ballooning over Pagan
Young monks, Ananda temple
C&K Recommends... Cycling in Pagan
Cycling is one of the best ways to explore the temples of Pagan (Bagan) and local village life, enabling you to get away from the normal tourist trail and discover the less-visited temples and areas of interest. Riding at an easy pace with a guide, explore colourful morning markets, lacquerware stalls and handicraft workshops. Pagan’s grassy plain, scattered with palm trees, cattle, herds of goats and local farmers, provides a perfect backdrop for photographs and endless opportunities for meeting people.
Sunrise balloon ride over Pagan
Drifting in a balloon over Pagan (Bagan) as the sun rises and seeing its myriad pagodas and temples dotted over the plains below is one of the most memorable experiences on a journey through Burma. Make an early morning start to the launch site, where tea and coffee are served as the crew prepares the balloon. Watching the inflation of the balloon and experiencing lift-off is spectacular. The balloon ride starts at dawn and lasts for approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour. On landing, a light champagne breakfast is served to round off a perfect start to the day. Find out more at coxandkings.co.uk or from your travel agent
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Leg rower, Inle Lake
Inle Lake Boat trips & floating villages • Insight into rural Burma Scenic Inle lake in Shan state is famous for its floating gardens, villages and tranquil, rural scenery. The main access point is the village of Nyaung Shwe; located at the north end of the lake, long tail boats operate transfers and sightseeing around the lake from here. The local population consists of various minority ethnic groups, predominantly Intha, who are famous for their much-photographed leg-rowers. The area is also of interest for birdwatching, boat tours and visits to lakeside villages and temples.
C&K Recommends... Balloon ride over Inle lake
A balloon flight over Inle lake is a beautiful way to experience its spectacular scenery and local life along its shores. Lift off is in the early morning, as the pilots carefully use their knowledge of the winds to steer the balloon over the floating villages and water gardens. Breakfast is taken either on a special retrieve boat in the middle of the lake or next to one of the beautiful Shan villages. Look out for local Intha fishermen searching for the first catch of the day and boats laden full of produce on their way to the market through a maze of green canals.
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Ballooning over Inle Lake
BURMA
Maymyo
Kalaw
British colonial heritage • National Kandawgyi Gardens
Charming former British hill station • Hill walking through remote villages
Founded by the British in 1896 as a hill town to escape the heat of the plains, Maymyo (or May’s Town, now known as Pyin Oo Lwin) was named after Colonel May of the 5th Bengal Infantry. It was connected to Mandalay by railway to provide access for the British administration, who built the grand colonial houses, administrative buildings and churches still seen today. The National Kandawgyi Gardens, founded in 1915 by the English botanist Alex Rodgers, encompass 176 hectares of botanic gardens with more than 480 species of flowers, trees and shrubs.
Located between Mandalay and Inle lake and at an altitude of 1,320 metres, Kalaw was a popular hill station during British rule, offering pleasantly cooler temperatures. Today it remains a peaceful place to relax as well as an excellent base for exploring the surrounding countryside and from which to begin hiking trips. Kalaw’s unique mix of ethnic hill tribe minorities with Burmese and Nepalese cultures, as well as an Indian influence which arrived with the British, gives it a quaint and charming atmosphere.
All Saint's Church, Maymyo
In Dein stupas, Kalaw
Moulmein ‘Little England’ with colonial charm & architecture • Mon Culture Museum Moulmein is the third largest city in Burma and the capital of Mon state. It was once a busy seaport and the administrative capital of British Lower Burma, known as ‘Little England’. Today it is a pleasant and quiet town with tree-lined streets, a charm of its own and a rich history. Colonial architecture can still be found here, along with several brilliantly coloured mosques built decades ago for Indian immigrant workers. Moulmein is also home to the first Baptist church to be established in the country. Rudyard Kipling's famous poem Mandalay was written in 1890 and later published for the first time in his collection entitled Barrack-Room Ballads. The poem was written after Kipling’s unscheduled stop in Moulmein, during his sail home to England from India in 1889. It’s unlikely that Kipling actually ever visited Mandalay, but in the poem’s opening line Kipling speaks of “the old Moulmein Pagoda”, which is thought to be the golden Kyaikthanlan Paya in Moulmein. Buddhist statues near Moulmein
Find out more at coxandkings.co.uk or from your travel agent
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BURMA
Ngapali beach
Ngapali Beach Three-km-long, idyllic beach • Picturesque villages & offshore islands Located in southern Rakhaing (Rakhine) state, approximately 7km from Sandoway (Thandwe) airport, Ngapali beach is Burma’s best-known beach resort. Some say it was named many years ago by an Italian who was reminiscing about his home in Naples. The beach offers 3km of palm-fringed white sand lapped by the Bay of Bengal’s crystal-clear waters. Ngapali beach still retains its fishing community roots and there are a few charming villages as well as some offshore islands that can be explored.
Golden Rock Pagoda, Mount Kyaiktiyo
Popa Taungkalat, near Mount Popa
The Golden Rock Pagoda
Mount Popa
Important Buddhist pilgrimage site • Accessible from Rangoon (Yangon)
Climb to the Popa Taungkalat monastery • Stunning countryside views
The Golden Rock Pagoda sits at the top of Mount Kyaiktiyo on the top of a granite boulder covered with gold leaves, which are pasted on by a flow of devout pilgrims. According to legend, the golden rock itself is precariously perched on a strand of the Buddha's hair; it seems to defy gravity, as it permanently appears to be on the verge of rolling down the hill. A glimpse of the gravity-defying golden rock is believed to be enough inspiration for any person to convert to Buddhism. The pagoda is visited from the town of Kyaiktiyo, which is located 160 km from Rangoon in the Mon State of south-east Burma, close to the Thai border town of Mae Sot.
Mount Popa is a volcano located about 50km south-east of Pagan (Bagan) in the Pegu range. It is considered the abode of the 37 Mahagiri nats, or spirits, that are worshipped in conjunction with Buddhism, and as such is the most important nat worship centre. Mount Popa is also known for the stunningly picturesque Popa Taungkalat, a monastery on top of an outcrop nearby. Statues depicting the nats are at the base of the Popa Taungkalat shrine. Visitors can climb the covered staircase to the monastery at the top of the outcrop for panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. The climb consists of more than 777 steps and requires a good level of fitness and mobility.
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BURMA
RV Paukan
Island in the Mergui archipelago
Fisherman, Inle Lake
Suggested itineraries...
Burma in Style
Cruising the Mergui Archipelago
Burma Explorer
Begin at arguably the country’s finest hotel, the Belmond Governor’s Residence in Rangoon (Yangon). Fly to Mandalay and cruise in style south to the temples of Pagan (Bagan).
Explore the little-known Mergui (or Myeik) archipelago in southern Burma, cruising in comfort aboard Pandaw Cruise’s new classic motor yacht, the MY Andaman Explorer.
Go beyond the tourist trail and discover the lesser-visited sights and local Burmese life along the way. Explore villages and markets, pagodas, temples and banyan groves.
Day 1: Fly to Rangoon (N) Day 2: Rangoon Arrive in Rangoon and transfer to the Belmond Governor’s Residence for 2 nights. (N) Day 3: Rangoon Full-day city tour including the Shwedagon pagoda, Chaukhtatgyi Reclining Buddha and Kandawgyi lake. (B, L) Day 4: Fly to Mandalay Fly to Mandalay and visit the city’s palace, fort, pagodas and monasteries, ending with sunset at Mandalay Hill. Stay 2 nights at the Hotel by the Red Canal. (B, L, D) Day 5: Inwa • Amarapura Tour the ancient royal capital of Inwa (Ava) by horse cart, then visit Amarapura’s temples, handicraft workshops and the Mahagandayon monastery. Evening boat trip on Taungthaman lake to watch the sunset over U Bein bridge. (B, L) Days 6-7: Irrawaddy river cruise Board the RV Paukan or the Belmond Road to Mandalay (supplements may apply) for a 2-night cruise to Pagan. Relax and enjoy river life, with various shore excursions available. (B, L, D) Day 8: Pagan Disembark in Pagan this morning and transfer to the Thiripyitsaya Sanctuary Resort for a 3-night stay. This evening, a private boat has been booked for you on the Irrawaddy river, including dinner on the riverbank (subject to local conditions). (B, L) Days 9-10: Pagan Spend the following two days exploring the ancient temples of Pagan with a local expert guide and your own private car. On either day an optional sunrise balloon ride over Pagan can be arranged (October to March only; must be booked in advance). (B) Day 11: Fly to Rangoon Fly to Rangoon and stay overnight at the Belmond Governor’s Residence. (B) Day 12: Fly home (B)
Day 1: Fly to Bangkok (N) Day 2: Bangkok Arrive in Bangkok and transfer to the Oriental Residence Bangkok for 1 night. (N) Day 3: Fly to Ranong Morning city tour of Bangkok, then fly to Ranong. Overnight in Ranong. (B, L) Day 4: Kawthaung Drive across the border to Burma, then transfer to the jetty in Kawthaung to board the Pandaw MY Andaman Explorer for a 10–night cruise. (B, L, D) Day 5: Cruise in the Aladdin islands Cruise to Than Kyun, or Davis island, at the southern end of the Mergui archipelago, the largest and highest of the Aladdin islands. (B, L, D) Day 6: Cruise in the Sullivan islands Visit Lambi island, home to members of the Mokken minority ethnic group with a nomadic seafaring culture. (B, L, D) Days 7-8: Cruise through the Sular islands The cruise enters the Sular islands, otherwise known as the Great West Torres, then on to Port Maria near Thayawathadangyi. (B, L, D) Day 9: Myeik Arrive in the coastal town of Myeik, formerly an important trading centre. (B, L, D) Days 10-12: Tavoy island • Moulmein Make a brief stop at Port Owen on Tavoy island, then sail overnight to Moulmein. Optional afternoon excursion by car to the Thanbyuzayat war cemetery. (B, L, D) Day 13: Hpa An Leave the boat and drive to Hpa An (pronounced Pa-an), the capital of Karen state. Return by boat down the Salween river to rejoin the boat at Moulmein. (B, L, D) Day 14: Rangoon Full-day sailing through the Gulf of Martaban, then into the mouth of the Rangoon river, entering Rangoon as day breaks. Afternoon city tour. Overnight at the Sule Shangri-La Hotel. (B) Day 15: Fly home (B)
Day 1: Fly to Mandalay (N) Days 2-4: Mandalay Arrive and transfer to the Hotel by the Red Canal for a 3-night stay. Explore Mandalay and nearby Amarapura, Inwa, Sagaing and Mingun. (B) Day 5: Monywa Drive to Monywa and visit Bawdi Tahtaung, a grove of hundreds of banyan trees interspersed with statues of the Buddha. Stay overnight at the Win Unity Resort. (B, L) Day 6: Pagan Drive south to Pakokku and board a boat to Pagan. Stay 3 nights at the Aye Yar River View Resort. (B, L) Days 7-8: Pagan Optional sunrise balloon ride over Pagan (October to March only; must be booked in advance). Spend the following two days visiting the temples of Pagan with a local expert guide and a private car. (B) Days 9-10: Fly to Heho • Inle lake Fly to Heho then transfer to Inle lake. Stay 2 nights at Inle Resort. Take a cruise on the lake to visit markets and villages. (B, L) Days 11-13: Fly to Rangoon Fly to Rangoon and transfer to the Sule ShangriLa Hotel for a 3-night stay. Spend two days exploring Rangoon, including the Shwedagon pagoda and a ride on the Circular Railway. (B) Day 14: Bago • Kyaikhtiyo Drive south from Rangoon to Kyaikhtiyo via Bago. Overnight at the Mountain Top Hotel. (B, L) Day 15: Golden Rock temple • Moulmein Visit the Golden Rock temple, then drive to Moulmein. Stay 3 nights at Attran Hotel. (B, L, D) Days 16-17: Moulmein City tour including Kipling’s pagoda, made famous by Rudyard Kipling’s poem Mandalay, and explore the surrounding countryside. (B, L, D) Days 18-19: Fly home Early morning drive to Rangoon airport for an evening flight home, arriving the next day. (B)
Guideline Prices
Guideline Prices
Guideline Prices
12 Days & 10 Nights from £3,995
Low season from: £3,995 (Mar) High season from: £4,295 (Jan – Feb)
15 Days & 13 Nights from £4,645
Low season from: £4,645 (Jan – Mar) High season from: £4,795 (Oct)
19 Days & 16 Nights from £3,425
Low season from: £3,425 (May – Jun) High season from: £3,825 (Oct)
Find out more at coxandkings.co.uk or from your travel agent
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BURMA • TOURS
The Golden Land of Burma Duration • 12 Days & 9 Nights Category • Superior
Group tour • From £2,595 Private tour • From £2,795
Tour overview Burma (Myanmar) has a long, eventful history and, as a result, a fascinating cultural heritage. This journey visits the highlights of this diverse country, beginning in Mandalay then on to the thousands of pagodas in ancient Pagan (Bagan). Visit beautiful Inle lake, famous for its floating villages and gardens, and the leg-rowers of the Intha tribe, before finishing in the former royal capital of Rangoon (Yangon).
C&K highlights • Stay in 4- star hotels • Enjoy a sunset cruise on the Irrawaddy river • Discover rural Burma around Inle lake • Explore Burma’s ancient former capitals • See the magnificent temples of Pagan • Visit the former British hill station of Maymyo • Small group size – maximum 26 people
Weather Rangoon J F M A M J J A S O N D A 32 35 36 37 33 30 30 30 30 32 32 32 B 18 19 22 24 25 24 24 24 24 24 22 19 C 5
2
6 17 307 567 577 624 381 206 62 7
A: Maximum average temperature (C) B: Minimum average temperature (C) C: Average rainfall (mm)
Area Map
Mandalay Palace, Mandalay
Day 1: Fly to Mandalay via Bangkok Fly from London (regional connections available) to Mandalay via Bangkok with Thai Airways. (N) Day 2: Mandalay Arrive in Mandalay and transfer to Mandalay Hill Resort for 2 nights. Afternoon visit to Mahamuni pagoda, then on to Amarapura to visit the Mahagandayon monastery, ending with sunset at U Bein bridge. Welcome dinner. (D) Day 3: Maymyo Morning visit to Mandalay Palace and its fort, followed by a full-day trip to Maymyo (Pyin Oo Lwin), a former British hill station. Take a horse-drawn carriage to see grand colonial houses and a local market. Lunch is at the Club Terrace in Maymyo, followed by a visit to the National Kandawgyi Gardens. (B, L) Day 4: Fly to Nyaung U • Pagan Cross the river to visit the pagodas of Sagaing Hill, then return to visit the ancient royal capital of Inwa (Ava) and take a horse-drawn carriage to visit the Bagayar monastery, before flying to Nyaung U. On arrival, transfer to the Aye Yar River View Resort in Pagan (Bagan), or similar, for 3 nights. (B, L) Day 5: Pagan temple visits Optional sunrise balloon ride over Pagan (October to March only; must be booked in advance). Full-day tour of Pagan, including the Ananda, Dhammayangyi and Htilominlo temples. (B) Day 6: Pagan temple visits Full-day tour of Pagan, including Shwezigon pagoda, Lawkananda and Dhammayazika
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temples. End the day with a sunset cruise on the Irrawaddy river. (B) Day 7: Fly to Heho • Inle lake Morning flight to Heho and transfer to Inle lake. In the afternoon, take a tour of the floating gardens, pagodas and temples around the lake. Stay 2 nights at the Amata Garden Resort (or similar). (B, L, D) Day 8: Inle lake Full-day boat tour of the Sagar region, including the 'sunken' stupas of Sagar, a monastery and the villages of the Pa-Oh, Shan and Inthar people. The area is also excellent for birdwatching. (B, L, D) Day 9: Fly to Rangoon Morning flight to Rangoon (Yangon), then visit the Kalaywatawya monastery. Continue to the city via a stop outside the stateswoman Aung San Suu Kyi’s gated home and the reclining Buddha statue, and on to the Chatrium Hotel (or similar) for a 2-night stay. (B) Day 10: Rangoon Visit Shwedagon pagoda, then take a walking tour of the downtown area, including Sule pagoda, Theingyi market and the National Museum. Farewell dinner. (B, D) Day 11: Fly to London via Bangkok Optional visit to the Bogyoke Aung San (Scott) market for souvenir shopping. Transfer to the airport and fly back to London via Bangkok. (B) Day 12: London Morning arrival. (N) Meal basis: As per itinerary – B: Breakfast, L: Lunch, D: Dinner, N: No meals.
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Temple landscape, Pagan
Extension Beach break at Ngapali 4 Days & 3 Nights from £495
Extension starts on Day 11 of the tour
Guideline prices for 2017-18
Tour code: BTL
Group tour Low season from £2,595 Guide price months: Nov
Private travel Low season from £2,795 Guide price months: Sep
High season from £2,895 Guide price months: Feb
High season from £2,895 Guide price months: Oct – Dec
Important information
Single supplement from £635
Single supplement: POA
Group tour manager: This tour is fully escorted throughout by a local tour manager from arrival in Mandalay.
The guideline high season prices may be significantly lower than the peak season prices (15 Dec – 03 Jan)
Extend your stay in Burma with some time spent relaxing on the pristine beaches of Ngapali, staying at the Amata Hotel for 3 nights.
roup tours include: International flights • Transfers • Experienced local tour manager / The best G local guides • All accommodation • All sightseeing described • All entrance fees • Meals as per itinerary
Superior tour: This tour is based in 4-star accommodation. Please visit this tour on our website to see details of the hotels included.
Thai Airways flight upgrades Royal Silk Class from £1,995 return
Domestic flights: Due to a restricted domestic flight schedule in Burma, the journey involves a number of early morning flights and requires check in at least one hour prior to departure.
The guideline tour prices are all per person in UK pounds, based on two people sharing a twin/double room. For current prices for all departure dates, including special offers when applicable, please call 020 7808 6786, email [email protected] or visit coxandkings.co.uk. All prices are subject to availability.
Private & tailor-made travel: This itinerary can be taken privately on a date that suits you, for which guideline prices are shown. Alternatively, it can be tailored to your exact requirements. Please call 020 7808 6786 or email [email protected]
Regional air connections Please speak to your consultant for details
Departure dates for 2017-18 Out 13 Jan 17 10 Feb 17 24 Feb 17
Rtn 24 Jan 17 21 Feb 17 07 Mar 17
Out 20 Oct 17 10 Nov 17 15 Dec 17
Rtn 31 Oct 17 21 Nov 17 26 Dec 17
Out 12 Jan 18 09 Feb 18 16 Mar 18
Rtn 23 Jan 18 20 Feb 18 27 Mar 18
Find out more at coxandkings.co.uk or from your travel agent
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BURMA • TOURS
Burma Discovery Duration • 11 Days & 8 Nights Category • Superior
Solo
Group tour • From £2,995
Tour overview Join a group of like-minded solo travellers on this journey to Burma (Myanmar). Fully escorted by an expert local guide, your group will explore the highlights of this fascinating country, discovering Buddhist monuments in Pagan (Bagan), tranquil Inle lake, ancient former capital cities near Mandalay and British colonial history in Rangoon (Yangon). Most meals are provided, including welcome and farewell group dinners.
C&K highlights • Twin / double rooms for single use in 4-star hotels • Welcome & farewell group dinners • Exclusive cruises on the Irrawaddy river and Inle lake • See the temples and pagodas at Pagan and Mandalay • Burmese cooking demonstration in Mandalay • Small group size – maximum 18 people
Weather Mandalay J F M A M J J A S O N D A 29 32 36 38 37 34 34 33 33 32 30 28 B 13 15 20 24 26 26 26 25 25 24 20 15 C 4 2 1 37 140 123 74 130 155 177 39 7
A: Maximum average temperature (C) B: Minimum average temperature (C) C: Average rainfall (mm)
Area Map
Floating garden, Inle Lake
Day 1: Fly to Mandalay via Bangkok Fly from London to Mandalay via Bangkok with Thai Airways. (N) Day 2: Mandalay Arrive in Mandalay and stay 2 nights at Mandalay Hill Resort. Afternoon visit to the Mahamuni pagoda, Amarapura, Mahagandayon monastery and the iconic U Bein Bridge. Welcome dinner at the hotel. (D) Day 3: Mandalay Morning tour of Mandalay Palace, the fort and the local market. Continue to Ma Ma Guesthouse for a lesson in Burmese cooking. (B, L, D) Day 4: Fly to Nyaung U • Pagan Visit the ancient royal capitals of Inwa (Ava) and Sagaing, and discover pagodas, craft villages and markets. Fly to Nyaung U then transfer to the Aye Yar River View Resort for 2 nights in Pagan (Bagan). Dinner tonight is accompanied by a traditional puppet show. (B, L, D) Day 5: Pagan Optional sunrise balloon ride over Pagan (October to March only; must be booked in advance). Full-day tour of Pagan including the Shwezigon pagoda and Lawkananda and Dhammayazika temples. Late afternoon cruise on a private boat to enjoy the sunset and a refreshing cocktail. (B, L, D)
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Day 6: Fly to Heho • Inle lake Morning flight to Heho and transfer to Inle lake. Take a cruise on the lake and see floating gardens, craft villages and a monastery. Stay 2 nights at the Amata Garden Resort. (B, L, D) Day 7: Inle lake Full-day tour of Inle lake visiting a morning market, the Indein pagoda and lakeside villages. (B, L, D) Day 8: Fly to Rangoon Morning flight to Rangoon (Yangon). Transfer to the city via the Kalaywatawya monastery and a stop outside the stateswoman Aung San Suu Kyi’s gated home and the reclining Buddha statue. Stay 2 nights at the Chatrium Hotel. (B, D) Day 9: Rangoon Morning visit to the Shwedagon pagoda, followed by a walking tour of the city including visits to Sule pagoda, Theingyi Zei market and the National Museum. Farewell dinner. (B, D) Day 10: Fly to London via Bangkok Optional morning visit to the Bogyoke Aung San (Scott) market, a good place to buy souvenirs. Flight back to London via Bangkok. (B) Day 11: London Arrive back in London. (N)
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Shwedagon pagoda, Rangoon
Meal basis: As per itinerary – B: Breakfast, L: Lunch, D: Dinner, N: No meals.
Important information Solo Travellers group tours: These small group tours have been specially created for single travellers. Benefits include single occupancy of double / twin rooms as standard and at sensible prices, plus the company of like-minded travellers. View the complete collection at coxandkings.co.uk/solo-travellers. Group tour manager: This tour is fully escorted throughout by a local tour manager from arrival in Mandalay. Superior tour: This tour is based in 4-star accommodation. Please visit this tour on our website to see details of the hotels included.
Guideline prices for 2017-18 Group tour Low season from £2,995 Guide price months: Jan 18
Tour code: DBS
High season from £3,195 Guide price months: Oct 17
roup tours include: International flights • Transfers • Experienced local tour manager / The best G local guides • All accommodation • All sightseeing described • All entrance fees • Meals as per itinerary Thai Airways flight upgrades Royal Silk Class from £1,995 return
Regional air connections Please speak to your consultant for details
The guideline tour prices are all per person in UK pounds, based on single occupancy of a twin/double room. For current prices for all departure dates, including special offers when applicable, please call 020 7808 6786, email [email protected] or visit coxandkings.co.uk.
Departure dates for 2017-18 Out Rtn 27 Jan 17 06 Feb 17
Out Rtn 03 Mar 17 13 Mar 17
Out Rtn 13 Oct 17 23 Oct 17
Out Rtn 26 Jan 18 05 Feb 18
Find out more at coxandkings.co.uk or from your travel agent
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BURMA
River Cruising There are two great rivers that wind their way across Burma: the Irrawaddy (or Ayeyarwady) and the Chindwin. The Irrawaddy is the largest and most important route for trade and commerce. Rising at the confluence of the N’Mai and Mali rivers in the north of the state of Kachin, it flows for 2,170km south through Mandalay before emptying into the Irrawaddy delta and the Andaman Sea. Cruises on the Irrawaddy typically include visits to Mandalay and the legendary temples of Pagan (Bagan). The Chindwin river is the largest tributary to the Irrawaddy and also rises in Kachin state, passing through some sharp defiles and continuing south through the towns of Mingun and Monywa, before joining the Irrawaddy just north of Pagan. A cruise on the Chindwin is ideal for those looking to discover Burma beyond the main sights as the riverside villages and temples along the way receive very few visitors.
Sunset on the Irrawaddy
Sagaing, Mandalay
Life Along the River With a developing tourist infrastructure and remote destinations, Burma is well suited to exploration by river. A multi-day cruise allows visitors to reach remote and little-visited parts of the country from the comfort of a luxury cabin and without long distance drives or early morning starts to catch domestic flights. Life unfolds slowly along the river. Although itineraries often include daily excursions, much of the pleasure in cruising comes from relaxing on deck with a drink and enjoying the tranquillity and passing river scenery. Onboard activities can include informative lectures on Burmese history, culture and the river itself while expert guides are available
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to answer questions. For something more hands-on, join classes in Burmese cooking, language and costume, while early morning yoga and meditation sessions are often held on deck. A range of itineraries are available, from 12-night extended explorations of the upper Chindwin river system or the classic 7-night sailing between Mandalay and Pagan, to short 2-night cruises that offer a taste of life on the river. Over recent years, a number of new companies and vessels have begun river cruising programmes in Burma, all offering different itineraries and levels of service. The best of these are featured over the next few pages, but please contact one of our experts to find out more.
BURMA
The Sanctuary Ananda Luxury cruise vessel • Explore the Irrawaddy & Chindwin rivers The Sanctuary Ananda is an all-suite ship, blending traditional Burmese interior design with contemporary luxury. All 21 suites have private balconies, en suite bathrooms and air conditioning, while the largest suite on the entire river, the Owner’s Suite, has a butler service and a private guide. Dining and relaxation areas include the indoor Talifoo restaurant, Mindoon for alfresco dining, the Kansi panorama sky lounge and a sun deck with a cocktail pool. The Thambyadine spa offers wellness treatments. Onboard activities are varied and include traditional Burmese cooking demonstrations, live traditional Burmese music and local cultural performances.
The Sanctuary Ananda
There are eight itineraries on offer, from 3- and 4-night classic shorter trips between Pagan and Mandalay, ideally booked as part of a longer Burma tour, to longer adventures such as a 10-night Chindwin river itinerary. The Sanctuary Ananda sails every full day of each itinerary, offering plenty of time to combine the essential temples and monasteries with off-the-beaten-track villages and markets. Deluxe suite, Sanctuary Ananda
Sun deck, Sanctuary Ananda
The RV Strand Luxury cruises between Mandalay and Pagan • Combine with a stay at The Strand Hotel in Rangoon (Yangon) Inaugurated in early 2016, the RV Strand is a reinvention of the legendary style and unique personality of The Strand Hotel within a contemporary river cruise experience. Enjoy exceptional standards of comfort and discreet, personalised service on cruise itineraries that include 4 nights from Pagan to Mandalay and 3 nights from Mandalay to Pagan.
RV Strand
All 27 cabins and suites are tastefully decorated using Burmese craftsmanship and teakwood floors, complete with floor-to-ceiling windows, en suite bathrooms, air conditioning, Wi-Fi, international TV channels and a 24-hour butler service. Relax and enjoy the scenery from the upper deck, take a dip in the open-air swimming pool or pamper yourself in the spa, complete with massage rooms, a foot reflexology station and a fully equipped gym. The upper deck bar also has a wine tasting corner with advanced temperature-controlled cabinets and an impressive wine list for every occasion, or sample a Strand Sour cocktail, thought to have been a favourite of George Orwell.
Pool, RV Strand
Suite, RV Strand
Find out more at coxandkings.co.uk or from your travel agent
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BURMA • TOURS
The Irrawaddy in Style Duration • 10 Days & 8 Nights
Category • Luxury
(October to March only – book in advance). Late morning excursion to explore the temples and plains further, either by bike or on a horse-drawn cart. Back on board, a range of afternoon activities are available, including a traditional longyi (sarong) tying demonstration or a lecture on Burmese history and culture. (B, L, D)
Tour overview Discover the magnificent temples and remote villages of Burma (Myanmar) in style, staying at the Belmond Governor’s Residence in Rangoon (Yangon), followed by a 5-night cruise along the majestic Irrawaddy river aboard the luxurious Belmond Road to Mandalay. Lined with ancient palaces and pagodas, a cruise along this astonishing river is perhaps the most pleasurable way to experience Burma, to feel its pulse, live its legends and understand its history.
Day 8: Mingun This morning a Burmese cookery demonstration will be held on the observation deck or you can listen to a fascinating lecture by the resident doctor in the lounge. After lunch, disembark for a visit to Mingun, home to the impressive ruined pagoda of King Bodawpaya and the world’s largest uncracked bell. (B, L, D)
C&K highlights • Stay at the grand Belmond Governor’s Residence in Rangoon • Cruise on the Belmond Road to Mandalay with onboard activities, lectures, spa treatments and pool • Discover the treasures of Mandalay and Sagaing • Explore the temples of Pagan (Bagan) • Optional sunrise balloon ride over Pagan • Eastern and western cuisine including cocktail parties and gala dinner
Weather Mandalay J F M A M J J A S O N D A 29 32 36 38 37 34 34 33 33 32 30 28 B 13 15 20 24 26 26 26 25 25 24 20 15 C 4 2 1 37 140 123 74 130 155 177 39 7
A: Maximum average temperature (C) B: Minimum average temperature (C) C: Average rainfall (mm)
Area Map
Day 9: Mandalay In the morning, disembark the cruise and begin a full-day tour of Mandalay. Overnight at the Hotel by the Red Canal (B) Day 10: Fly home (B) Pahtodawgyi pagoda, Mingun
Day 1: Fly to Rangoon (N) Day 2: Rangoon Arrive in Rangoon (Yangon) and transfer to the Belmond Governor’s Residence for 2 nights. (N) Day 3: Rangoon Full-day private tour of Rangoon, including its colonial buildings, Sule pagoda, Kandawgyi lake and the Shwedagon pagoda. (B) Day 4: Fly to Mandalay Early morning flight to Mandalay. On arrival, take a short trip to see the monasteries of Sagaing, then transfer to the Belmond Road to Mandalay ship for a 5-night cruise on the Irrawaddy river. Afternoon tour of Mandalay, regarded as the centre of Burmese culture and Buddhist learning. (B, L, D) Day 5: Ava After an early breakfast, visit a local village for a walking tour, then sail to the ancient capital of Ava and leave the ship for a tour of this historic site by horse-drawn cart. (B, L, D) Day 6: Pagan Morning arrival in Pagan (Bagan), where more than 2,000 temples and pagodas are scattered over a plain beside the river. Spend the full day on a tour of the temples. (B, L, D) Day 7: Pagan Optional sunrise balloon ride over Pagan
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River cruise • From £4,395
Contact us on 020 7808 6786 or [email protected]
Meal basis: As per itinerary – B: Breakfast, L: Lunch, D: Dinner, N: No meals.
Important information Locally escorted tour: This tour is led in each destination en route by a local tour guide. All excursions on the cruise will be led by a local cruise tour guide. Luxury tour: Featuring some of the most luxurious accommodation throughout the tour. Prices are based on the standard room or cabin category, unless otherwise stated. Please visit this tour on our website to see details of the hotels included. Non-exclusive cruise: When on board the cruise, the transfers and excursions relevant to that cruise are operated as a group with other passengers who may or may not be Cox & Kings clients. Itinerary: The itinerary featured above is a combination of the 3-night ‘Highlights of Myanmar’ cruise with the 2-night ‘Ayeyarwaddy Experience’ cruise. Please speak to our Far East experts for details on other cruise itineraries, travelling on either the Belmond Road to Mandalay or the Belmond Orcaella. Tailor-made travel: For a price quote based on alternative accommodation standards, to discuss flight options or to tailor this itinerary, please call 020 7808 6786 or email [email protected].
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Temple at sunrise, Pagan
Belmond Road to Mandalay
Belmond Road to Mandalay is a de luxe river cruiser with 43 en suite cabins, air conditioned and furnished in traditional Burmese style with five cabin sizes and categories available. Facilities include a swimming pool, observation
deck, restaurant, piano bar, fitness room and spa treatments. A range of cruise programmes and durations are available between Pagan and Mandalay, as well as an itinerary to the sublime gorges of Bhamo.
Guest speakers
From an award-winning photographer to an expert yoga instructor, Belmond have hand-picked fascinating guest speakers to join you on board. They will accompany you on excursions, deliver insightful lectures and lead engaging discussions during the cruise. Speakers include Nadia Narain, an expert yoga instructor; General Sir Mike Jackson, the former head of the British Army; and Sue Flood, an award-winning travel and wildlife photographer. Please speak to our Far East experts to check the speaker on board your departure.
Guideline prices for 2017 Low season from £4,395 Guide price months: Apr – Sep High season from £5,795 Guide price months: Jan – Mar The guideline high season prices may be significantly lower than the peak season prices (15 Dec – 03 Jan) Belmond Road to Mandalay
Find out more at coxandkings.co.uk or from your travel agent
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BURMA • TOURS
The Upper Irrawaddy: Pandaw Cruises Duration • 12 Days & 9 Nights
Category • Superior
River cruise • From £3,495
Tour overview Explore a little-visited region of northern Burma (Myanmar), sailing from Mandalay to Katha, where George Orwell was once stationed as an imperial policeman. Visit charming local towns and riverside villages, uncover Buddhist monasteries and small pagodas and marvel at the beautiful and dramatic riverside scenery. All the while you will learn about daily life along one of Indochina’s most important waterways.
C&K highlights • Staying in 4-star accommodation throughout • Meals, local drinks and crew tips all included • 7-night cruise through spectacular gorges • Visit isolated villages, hidden pagodas and shrines • Explore Katha, the setting for George Orwell's novel Burmese Days
Weather Mandalay J F M A M J J A S O N D A 29 32 36 38 37 34 34 33 33 32 30 28 B 13 15 20 24 26 26 26 25 25 24 20 15 C 4 2 1 37 140 123 74 130 155 177 39 7
A: Maximum average temperature (C) B: Minimum average temperature (C) C: Average rainfall (mm)
Area Map
U Bein Bridge
Day 1: Fly to Mandalay (N) Day 2: Mandalay Arrive in Mandalay and transfer to the Mandalay Hill Resort for 2 nights. (N) Day 3: Mandalay Half-day private tour to Amarapura visiting the Mahagandayon monastery and the U Bein Bridge. (B) Day 4: Kyauk-myaung • Third defile Board your Pandaw vessel this morning for the 7-night Upper Irrawaddy cruise. Visit the potteries near Kyauk-myaung, where the famous 50-gallon water pots are made by hand. Return to the ship and enter the dramatic third defile of the Irrawaddy. (B, L, D) Day 5: Khan-nyat • Tigyang Stop at Khan-nyat village to visit its numerous Buddhist monasteries. Climb Pagoda Hill at Tigyang for superb views of the Upper Irrawaddy river. (B, L, D) Day 6: Katha The colonial town of Katha has changed little since George Orwell lived here. The local fire station houses a collection of the Irrawaddy Flotilla Company’s ships’ bells, taken from sunken ships in the second world war. If time
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permits, a visit will also be made to a elephant logging camp in the hardwood forests of the hills that surround the town. (B, L, D) Day 7: Kyun Daw Transfer by local boat to visit the small village of Kyun Daw where there are numerous small pagodas. (B, L, D) Day 8: Second defile Cruise through the most dramatic of the three gorges where cliffs tower over the narrow channel. (B, L, D) Day 9: Tagaung Disembark for a walking tour of the ancient city of Tagaung. See the town’s fortifications, a nat (spirit) shrine and explore the archaeological area. (B, L, D) Day 10: Mingun • Sagaing hills Visit the unfinished pagoda at Mingun, home of the largest working bell in the world, then drive to the Sagaing hills to enjoy views over the region and the Irrawaddy river. (B, L, D) Days 11-12: Mandalay • Fly home In the morning, disembark in Mandalay and fly home, arriving the next day. Alternatively extend your stay with a flight south to Rangoon (Yangon). (B)
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RY Kalay Pandaw near Mingun
Meal basis: As per itinerary – B: Breakfast, L: Lunch, D: Dinner, N: No meals.
Important information Locally escorted tour: This tour is led in each destination en route by a local tour guide. All excursions on the cruise will be led by a local cruise tour guide. Superior tour: This itinerary uses a 4-star hotel in Mandalay. Cruise accommodation, service and facilities should also be considered as Superior. Please visit this tour on our website to see details of the accommodation included. Non-exclusive cruise: When on board the cruise, the transfers and excursions relevant to that cruise are operated as a group with other passengers who may or may not be Cox & Kings clients.
Tailor-made travel: For a price quote based on alternative accommodation standards, to discuss flight options or to tailor this itinerary, please call 020 7808 6786 or email [email protected].
Pandaw vessels
Pandaw vessels have been custom-built for river cruising, designed and finished as replicas of colonial river steamers with interiors hand-finished in brass and teak by traditionally skilled craftsmen. Facilities typically include a cocktail bar, a sun deck and an air-conditioned dining room.
Pandaw cruises in Burma
Pandaw has long pioneered navigation on the rivers of Burma. This continues today, Pandaw being the only operator providing weekly departures. Trips include classic journeys from Rangoon (Yangon) up to Mandalay, cruises between Pagan (Bagan) and Mandalay, and
journeys to more remote destinations, such as sailing the Chindwin river to Homalin, then continuing further on the Upper Irrawaddy to Katha. All these cruises are on small and brand new vessels and can be combined to create a full exploration of the rivers of Burma.
Guideline prices for 2017 Low season from £3,495 Guide price months: Aug High season from £3,995 Guide price months: Oct The guideline high season prices may be significantly lower than the peak season prices (15 Dec – 03 Jan)
Find out more at coxandkings.co.uk or from your travel agent
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BURMA • ACCOMMODATION
Hotel Collection This is a selection of our recommended hotels. Please see our website for more options.
Belmond Governor’s Residence, Rangoon
Luxury
Arguably the finest hotel in Burma (Myanmar), the Belmond Governor’s Residence is an exquisite mansion dating from the 1920s. It is located within the elegant Embassy quarter of Rangoon (Yangon), close to the spectacular Shwedagon pagoda and just 10 minutes from the city centre. Surrounded by a verdant garden dotted with lotus pools, guestrooms and suites are luxuriously furnished with teak furniture, tropical cottons and silks, and with views of either the courtyard or gardens. The Mandalay restaurant serves European and Burmese dishes in a garden setting surrounded by tropical plants and ponds while the Burmese Curry Table is a buffet-style restaurant. Take a dip in the fan-shaped swimming pool and then, with a cocktail in hand, take a seat in a teak armchair on the cooling veranda and imagine a bygone era when the building was home to the ruler of Burma’s southern states.
Features:
48 rooms, 2 restaurants, cocktail lounge, bar, swimming pool, spa, gift shop, travel desk.
Superior
Superior
Superior
The Strand Hotel, Rangoon
The Savoy Hotel, Rangoon
Chatrium Hotel, Rangoon
Features:
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Built in 1901, this three-storey hotel in Rangoon remains one of south-east Asia's few grand colonial hotels. The hotel takes its name from the Strand Road on which it stands – an ideal location for exploring the city. Rooms are furnished with Burmese lacquerware and antiques, teakwood floors and hand-carved wood frame beds. A team of dedicated butlers will ensure that your stay here is memorable and relaxing. 31 suites, restaurant, cafe, bar, lobby lounge, spa, handicraft shop, Wi-Fi.
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The Savoy Hotel is a charming boutique hotel with an intimate and friendly atmosphere, located just 10 minutes’ drive from the city centre and close to the Shwedagon pagoda. Classic teak wood decor, Burmese antiques and polished wooden floors feature throughout the hotel. Guestrooms are furnished in a colonial style with traditional Burmese decor combined with modern comforts. The hotel’s staff offer a personalised and attentive service. 30 rooms, 2 restaurants, bar, swimming pool, massage service.
Contact us on 020 7808 6786 or [email protected]
Located along the western shore of Kandawgyi (Royal) lake in the heart of Rangoon, the Chatrium Hotel is a spacious, modern property with comfortable rooms and suites that offer views of the city, the pagoda or the lake. There are three excellent restaurants serving Chinese, Japanese or Thai cuisine. The Shwedagon pagoda is just 15 minutes’ walk away and there is also a complimentary shuttle bus that runs throughout the day for convenient sightseeing. 300 rooms, 3 restaurants, cocktail lounge, swimming pool & bar, spa.
ACCOMMODATION • BURMA
This is a selection of our recommended hotels. Please see our website for more options.
Luxury
Sandoway Resort, Ngapali beach
Located in Mya Pin village on Ngapali beach, the Sandoway Resort is designed to provide an intimate and relaxing experience for guests, with easy access to the vast, sandy beach lined with palm trees and known for its magnificent sunset views. Guestrooms are classically furnished and, to minimise unnecessary noise, do not feature telephones or televisions. Dine on fresh local seafood in the resort's restaurant. The resort is open from October to May.
Features:
59 rooms, restaurant, bar, beach access, swimming pool, spa, small cinema.
Superior
Luxury
Superior
Sanctum Inle Resort, Inle Lake
The Sanctum Inle Resort at tranquil Inle lake is a haven of calm away from the hectic, bustling city. Arches and cloisters reference the monastic life and offer a more contemplative travel experience. Stay in one of six categories of rooms and suites, all with spacious bathrooms and garden or lake views. The Refectory restaurant serves Burmese dishes with an emphasis on Shan cuisine, using produce from the resort’s organic garden.
Features:
96 rooms & suites, restaurant, garden, library, spa, bicycle hire.
Good Standard
Hotel Novotel Inle Lake Myat Min, Inle Lake
Set on the banks of Inle Lake and surrounded by lush gardens, this bright, airy property offers views onto the timeless scenery of the lake. The resort has 122 rooms, with 60 junior suites, 60 overlake villas and two presidential villas. The suites have a private balcony and the villas have a separate living area. Take a dip in the infinity pool with its swim-up bar, enjoy stunning sunset vistas and treat yourself to the sumptuous spa facilities
Features:
122 rooms, 2 restaurants, spa, outdoor swimming pool.
Good Standard
Aye Yar River View Resort, Pagan
Hotel by the Red Canal, Mandalay
Popa Mountain Resort, Mount Popa
Features:
Features:
Features:
The Aye Yar River View Resort is a contemporary hotel with traditional Burmese touches. Located in the heart of old Pagan (Bagan) on the banks of the Irrawaddy, the resort has panoramic views of the river and pagodas, with the Bupaya pagoda just a 5-minute walk away. Guestrooms are spread over three separate wings and are each decorated with local handmade furnishings and all with a private terrace or balcony. 103 rooms, restaurant, bar, spa, swimming pool.
Located in a quiet residential area in central Mandalay, the Hotel by the Red Canal has just 25 guestrooms, providing an intimate atmosphere and personable service. Rooms are furnished in traditional Burmese style with teak furniture and wooden floors. They are divided into four categories named after major ethnic groups in Burma: Chin, Kachin, Rakhine and Shan. The Spice Garden restaurant serves some of the best Indian cuisine in the city. 26 suites, restaurant, spa, outdoor pool.
Set on the slopes of Mount Popa, approximately one hour’s drive from the magnificent temples of Pagan (Bagan), the Popa Mountain Resort has a unique, scenic location, ideal for travellers planning to climb to the top early the next day. Accommodation is in chalets perched on the hillside with superb views across the ravine, all traditionally furnished and equipped with modern amenities and a private balcony. 50 rooms, restaurant, coffee shop, outdoor pool & bar, spa.
Find out more at coxandkings.co.uk or from your travel agent
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Vietnam, Laos & Cambodia Group tours • Tailor-made travel • River cruising Intertwined along the eastern edge of the Indochinese peninsula, Vietnam, Laos and Cambodia are fascinating destinations, all with a colonial legacy yet each with a distinctive history, culture and landscape.
Laos
Explore karst landscapes, stepped paddies, historic towns, glorious beaches and the languid Mekong delta in Vietnam. Cambodia is home to the temples of Angkor, the magnificent legacy of the Khmer empire as well as lush jungle and beautiful coastline. For many years, Laos was over-shadowed by its neighbours. Today, it is still a laidback country while the Buddhist culture lends its people a delightful charm.
Discover Vietnam, Laos & Cambodia 86 Vietnam 94 Cambodia 96 Laos 108 Mekong River Cruising 112 Pandaw River Cruising Small group & private tours 98 Grand Tour of Indochina • Group or private 100 Spirit of Vietnam • Group or private 102 Vietnam & the Temples of Angkor • Solo Travellers tour
Vietnam
Burma
Thailand
Cambodia
104 Laos & Cambodia: Temples & Treasures • Royal Academy tour 106 Cambodia in Style • Private 110 A River Journey on the Mekong • River cruise 113 Classic Mekong • River cruise 114 116 118 120
Places to stay – our suggestions Vietnam Hotel Collection Vietnam River & Beach Resorts Cambodia Hotel Collection Laos Hotel Collection
Image left: Temple at Royal Palace Museum, Luang Prabang, Laos
Climate
Temperatures and rainfall in Vietnam vary widely, but the best overall months to travel here are October to March. The rainy season for most of the country is between May and September while the central highlands have an additional wet season between September and January. Cambodia and Laos are hot and humid all year. The rainy season falls between late April and September so the best time to visit is during the cooler and drier winter months between November and March.
Hanoi, Vietnam
Siem Reap, Cambodia
J F M A M J J A S O N D
J F M A M J J A S O N D
A 20 20 23 27 32 33 33 32 31 29 25 22
A 31 34 36 36 34 33 32 32 31 30 31 30
B 14 15 18 21 25 26 26 26 25 22 19 15
B 19 21 23 24 25 24 24 24 24 24 22 20
C 22 28 42 97 181 242 258 297 225 125 57 19
C 1
9 28 64 146 166 186 224 250 215 61 7
Key: A: Maximum average temperature (C) B: Minimum average temperature (C) C: Average rainfall (mm)
Inspired to venture further afield? Browse our website to discover additional destinations, places to stay and itineraries; or speak to our Indochina experts. t
020 7808 6786
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[email protected]
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coxandkings.co.uk
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VIETNAM
Discover Vietnam Cruising in Halong Bay Group departures or private charters • Explore islands & floating villages by kayak Halong Bay lies in the north-east of Vietnam, a 3-hour drive north of Hanoi. The bay borders Cat Ba island, the East Sea and the mainland, creating a 120-km coastline with 1,969 islands of various sizes. A densely concentrated area of stone islands, famous for their spectacular scenery of grottoes and caves, form the central area of Halong Bay. The luxurious Au Co cruiser offers a 3-day and 2-night itinerary for those who want to explore the bay in greater depth. The route takes in Halong Bay, Cat Ba island and the relatively unexplored bays of Lan Ha and Bai Tu Long. The 32 cabins and suites are light and airy with floor-to-ceiling windows, most with a private balcony. Excursions include cycling in Cat Ba National Park, a visit to a floating village, tai chi classes and kayaking. Bhaya Cruises, the parent company of Au Co, also has a range of 1- and 2-night cruises available in its Classic fleet. For a more private experience, the Legend fleet of 8 vessels offers 1 junk with one cabin, 2 junks with two cabins, 4 junks with three cabins, and 1 junk with four cabins, all providing personalised services, excursions and itineraries.
Halong Bay
Hanoi Colonial buildings in the old quarter • Lively markets & street food Resting in the Red River delta region, Hanoi is a mix of tree-lined avenues, maze-like back streets, temples and fine colonial buildings from the era of French rule. In the east of the city lies the Hoan Kiem lake, or ‘Lake of the Restored Sword’, which encompasses Jade island and the Ngoc Son temple. Hanoi’s old quarter has the city’s oldest streets, many of which are named after the trades of resident merchants, for example silver or paper. Hanoi also has a lively street food scene; be sure to try a bowl of pho, a simple Vietnamese soup made with noodles and served with chicken or beef and onion, with lime, herbs and chilli to flavour.
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Thang Long citadel, Hanoi
VIETNAM
Hué Historic riverside town • Dine at a restored royal home of the Nguyen dynasty Set on the banks of the Perfume river, Hué was capital of Vietnam between 1802 and 1945 under the Nguyen emperors, and later under French colonial rule. Since the early 19th century it has been regarded as Vietnam’s centre of learning as its tradition of Buddhism has given the city a sophisticated air. Hué witnessed some of the most aggressive action of the Vietnam war, including the 1968 Tet offensive. In spite of this many monuments from its imperial past remain, and Unesco declared the city a world heritage site in 1993. Statues of warriors in Imperial Khai Dinh Tomb, Hué
Hoi An Charming coastal resort • Distinct Chinese architecture • Renowned for its expert tailors The ancient town of Hoi An is located 30km south of Danang on the banks of the Thu Bon river. Occupied by many early western traders, Hoi An was one of the major trading centres of south-east Asia in the 16th century. Hoi An has a distinct Chinese atmosphere with low, tile-roofed houses and narrow streets; the original structure of some of these streets still remains almost intact. All the houses here were made of rare wood and decorated with lacquered boards, panels engraved with Chinese characters and pillars carved with ornamental designs. Hoi An
Ho Chi Minh City Mix of French colonial style & modern Vietnam • Gateway to the Mekong delta Ho Chi Minh City, formerly known as Saigon and the name by which many locals still refer to their home, is a frenetic metropolis with streets clogged by scooters, food stalls and pedestrians, and lined with foreign restaurants, office blocks and shopping malls. This is Vietnam’s economic powerhouse and the rate of progress over the last few years has been remarkable. The city has much to explore including the best museums in the country. Its position in the south-east also makes it an important gateway to the Mekong delta for both traders and tourists alike. City Hall, Ho Chi Minh City
C&K Recommends... Market tour and cooking class, Hanoi
Meet with a local chef from the EZ Cooking Class Centre in Hanoi, an institution known for supplying kitchen staff to some of the best hotels and restaurants in the city. Wander through the street markets and, with the chef’s guidance, select fresh local produce which you will use to prepare traditional Vietnamese dishes in a hands-on cooking class.
Fishermen and waterways tour, Hoi An
Visit a small fishing village on the outskirts of Hoi An and learn about the daily life of Vietnamese fishermen, their families and their community. Take a cruise on the Cua Dai river and try your hand at catching fish using the local round nets. Change to a small bamboo basket boat and paddle your way through the tranquil Bay Mau waterways.
Off the beaten track in Ho Chi Minh City
Stroll through the narrow back alleys away from the main thoroughfares, getting closer to local residential areas and authentic markets. A complicated maze to the uninitiated, your local guide will lead you though the market and explain the background and history of the area. You can also visit a house where Viet Cong commandos gathered to collect weapons for the Tet offensive. Fruit vendor, Hanoi
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VIETNAM
Rice fields, Mai Chau valley
Mai Chau Beautiful walks in the countryside • Visit ethnic minority villages Around 150km south-west of Hanoi is the district of Mai Chau, located in a lush valley surrounded by spectacular limestone karst, forested hills and paddy fields. The drive into the area from the north is memorable and it is worth stopping at the view point to take in the spectacular scenery overlooking the valley. Mai Chau is also known as the home of many of Vietnam’s minority ethnic groups, whose settlements in the surrounding hills are notable for their stilt houses, elevated more than 10 feet off the ground and made of bamboo and wood. An overnight stay is advisable to get the most from a visit here while 2 nights allows time for walking in the hills and through the peaceful countryside. A visit to the Mai Chau valley and surrounding area makes for an interesting contrast to the cities and cultural sights of Vietnam. Farmer and cows, Mai Chau
C&K Recommends... Stay at the Mai Chau Ecolodge
The Mai Chau Ecolodge sits on a hill above Na Phon village in Mai Chau, a few minutes’ walk from the Lac and Pom Coong villages. The lodge is fully staffed by local villagers, who are passionate about their homeland and create a welcoming atmosphere. All rooms are designed with the local environment in mind, combining bamboo furnishings and red tiled floors with modern amenities. After a walk in the surrounding hills, relax in the pool or with a massage, followed by a cocktail and a fusion of Vietnamese and Thai tribal dishes at the lodge restaurant.
Visit the Pu Long Nature Reserve
The Pu Long Nature Reserve, approximately an hour's drive south of Mai Chau, is known for its forests, rice terraces and limestone hills. Visitors can enjoy a scenic 45-minute walk alongside the Cham stream, stop off at the Pu Luong Lodge for lunch, then walk in the surrounding hills visiting waterfalls and small villages.
Walking & cycling in Mai Chau valley
Within the Mai Chau valley and the surrounding highlands there are a number of small villages that can be visited on foot. The nearby villages of Xam Khoe, home to the White Tai people, are an ideal point to begin a walk through the mountains or make extended hikes to more remote villages. Cycling trips can also be made through the paddy fields in the Mai Chau valley, with plenty of opportunities for taking photos and interacting with the locals.
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Seeding the rice fields, Mai Chau
Rice terraces, Sapa
Sapa Villages, markets & hill tribes • Walking in the Hoang Lien Son mountains Sapa is a small market town perched on a plateau in the Hoang Lien Son mountain range, surrounded by green cultivated rice terraces and facing the peak of Fansipan (3,143 metres). The town grew in importance during the 1930s when European settlers arrived to establish a hill station away from the heat of Hanoi. Only a handful of the colonial buildings remain after the Chinese invasion of 1979, and today Sapa derives its character from the surrounding villages, spectacular mountain scenery and mountain walks. Children with water buffalo, Sapa
C&K Recommends... Ride on the Victoria Express train
With its elegant carriages, the Victoria Express train recalls a more romantic era, passing through the exotic landscapes of north Vietnam. The train departs six times a week between Hanoi and Sapa and travels overnight, taking approximately 8.5 hours. The train accommodates up to 52 passengers in two luxurious carriages, travelling in either 4- or 2-berth cabins. All cabins feature air conditioning, as well as individual reading lights, baggage storage and oversized windows while drinks and snacks are also available on board. This is an interesting way to travel to the northern highlands. Victoria Express train
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VIETNAM
The Mekong Delta The Mekong is one of the most important rivers in south-east Asia, flowing through the heart of the region and supporting the livelihoods of more than 60 million people. It is also one of the world’s most diverse fisheries, second only to the Amazon river. The delta covers an area of more than 38,850 sq km, mainly of flood plain but with some hilly and forested areas, dotted with small towns, villages and farmsteads. Much of the delta can be explored by vehicle, with excursions by small boat to floating markets and through small channels. The delta towns of Can Tho and Chau Doc both offer good standard accommodation, making them excellent bases from which to explore the surrounding area at your leisure. For a more in depth exploration of the delta from water level, longer cruises from Vietnam to Cambodia along the river are available. Please see pages 108 to 113 for further details.
Floating market, Mekong delta
Can Tho
Chau Doc
Large floating market of Cai Rang • Boat tours into the Mekong delta
Eclectic mix of cultures • Crossing point for river journeys into Cambodia
Located at the confluence of the Can Tho and Hau Giang rivers, Can Tho has long been a major trading centre. The city has broad boulevards and an elegant waterfront, and is connected to the rest of the delta via a system of rivers and canals. Make sure to visit the Cai Rang floating market, a typically frenetic Vietnamese market with the added attraction of its waterside location on the banks of the Mekong. It is the largest and most impressive floating market in Indo-China. A longer cruise from Can Tho along the Ba Lang canal is an ideal way to see the orchards and plantations and sample seasonal produce.
Chau Doc is a busy town on the banks of the Hau Giang river, close to the Vietnam-Cambodia border. Once part of Cambodia, it was awarded to the Nguyen lords in the 18th century and still retains a strong Khmer influence. Residents are a mix of Chinese, Cham, Khmer and Vietnamese people, which is reflected in the city’s architecture; each community has their own distinctive temples and pagodas. The town has a thriving cross-border trade with Cambodia and is also renowned for its fish breeding industry. A climb up nearby Sam mountain provides good views of the delta.
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VIETNAM
Cu Chi tunnels
Cu Chi Tunnels Unique insight into the Vietnam war This vast network of tunnels, stretching for over 150km, was used by the Viet Cong during the battles for the south in the Vietnam war. The tunnels are a sobering insight into the dedication of the Viet Cong soldiers who virtually lived in the narrow and claustrophobic tunnels while the war raged. You can enter the Cu Chi tunnels, which have been widened in places for visitors, although they can still be dark, hot and claustrophobic inside. You can also watch a chilling demonstration of the traps and weapons that were used against the Americans. Mekong delta
C&K Recommends...
Cai Be Princess, Victoria Mekong Cruises
Day cruises on a sampan
A day cruise on the Mekong is ideal for those wishing to experience delta life from the water but without the time for the longer 4- and 7-night cruises travelling between Vietnam and Cambodia. Drive out into the delta from Ho Chi Minh City to board a sampan, a traditional wooden flat-bottomed boat. These sampans are built using natural materials such as rattan, bamboo and exotic woods, and feature relaxing day beds from which to enjoy the views and see the highlights of the delta.
Song Xanh, Victoria Mekong Cruises
Overnight houseboat stays
For those who are short on time but want to experience the delta during its quieter moments in the early morning and late evening, private overnight cruises are also available. These boats are equipped with modern amenities and feature comfortable private cabins with en suite bathrooms. The staff area, with a well-equipped kitchen, is at the back of the ship and separated from the guest area by a lockable door to ensure your privacy. Staff on board include a captain, sailor, chef and tour guide.
Find out more at coxandkings.co.uk or from your travel agent
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VIETNAM
Islands & Beaches Vietnam’s Beaches Easily accessible from the major cities • Luxury hotels With more than 3,000km of coastline, Vietnam has a wealth of wonderful beaches. Some of the best are the beaches around Danang in central Vietnam, an hour from Hoi An, such as Non Nuoc, christened ‘China Beach’ by American troops in the 60s, and My Khe with their long stretches of white sands and a range of upmarket hotels. Further south, Nha Trang is an attractive town surrounded by green hills and a deep-blue bay, fringed with a glorious crescent of golden sand. In southern Vietnam, the beaches around Phan Thiet are all easily accessible from Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon). The tourist resort of Mui Ne is located just north of Phan Thiet, with a 21-km-long arc of white sand and some fine hotels, while Ke Ga Bay is a quieter location with deserted beaches, rock formations and an ancient lighthouse.
Phu Quoc island
Phu Quoc Island
Con Dao Islands
Quiet, tropical island • Variety of hotels and guesthouses
Snorkelling & turtle watching (May – Nov) • Hiking trails & nature walks
Located 45km south-west of Vietnam in the Gulf of Thailand and 15km south of the Cambodian coast, Phu Quoc is a relatively undeveloped island with beautiful white sand beaches and forested hills. Since the arrival of an international airport in 2012, infrastructure on the island has improved but the island retains a relaxed atmosphere, with a choice of unspoilt beaches and clear waters ideal for swimming and snorkelling. There are a number of smaller properties available, one of the best being La Veranda Resort Phu Quoc, a member of the Accor MGallery collection. The ideal time to visit is from November through to April.
The Con Dao islands are an archipelago of 15 islands in the South China Sea, a 45-minute flight from Ho Chi Minh City. The islands have a tragic history: during the French occupation, the largest island was used as a prison complex, a practice continued during the Vietnam war. Today, the islands are a protected marine nature reserve, with Vietnam’s most important sea turtle nesting grounds. With mountainous, forested terrain, there are plenty of opportunities for hiking, and scenic bays with excellent spots for swimming and snorkelling. The Six Senses Con Dao is the premier hotel on the islands.
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VIETNAM
Café La Terrasse, Sofitel Metropole, Hanoi
RV Angkor Pandaw
Rice field, Ninh Binh
Suggested itineraries...
Vietnam in Style
Red River & Halong Bay Cruise
Natural Wonders of Vietnam
Travel in style through Vietnam staying in some of the country’s finest hotels and a night aboard a luxury Halong Bay cruiser. Discover the cities of Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, the tribal highlands near Sapa and the cultural sights of Hué and Hoi An.
Explore a little-visited area of northern Vietnam and discover rural life in the Red River delta. Enjoy a classic cruise on Halong Bay, visit the city of Hanoi and sail as far as is navigable up the Red River.
Discover a different aspect of Vietnam, moving away from the cultural sites and exploring some of the country’s fascinating landscapes. Visit Titop island, the limestone caves at Ninh Binh, and walk in the Mai Chau valley and the Pu Long Nature Reserve.
16 Days & 14 Nights from £3,545
13 Days & 10 Nights from £2,695
Day 1: Fly to Hanoi (N) Day 2: Hanoi Arrive and transfer to the Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi for 2 nights. (N) Day 3: Hanoi Morning tour of Hanoi. Early evening water puppet show. (B, L) Days 4-5: Halong Bay Drive to the world heritage site of Halong Bay. Board the Au Co for a 2-night cruise. (B, L, D) Day 6: Lào Cai Watch the sun rise over the bay, then disembark and transfer to Hanoi for the Victoria Express train to Lào Cai. Overnight in a private cabin. (B, L) Days 7-8: Sapa Arrive in Lào Cai, then spend 2 days exploring the Muong Hoa valley, visiting villages and markets. Stay 2 nights at the Victoria Sapa Resort & Spa. (B, L) Day 9: Hanoi Morning walk in the mountains, then afternoon drive back to Hanoi. Overnight at the Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi. (B) Day 10: Fly to Hué Fly to Hué, the 19th-century Nguyen capital. Afternoon visit to the royal tombs of Tu Duc and Khai Dinh. Dinner at a restored royal home. Stay 2 nights at La Residence Hué. (B) Day 11: Hué Morning at leisure. Afternoon cyclo ride to the Imperial Citadel and Thien Mu pagoda. (B, L) Day 12: Hoi An Drive over the Hai Van Pass to Hoi An. Stay 2 nights at the Hotel Royal Hoi An. (B, L) Day 13: Hoi An Morning city tour, including the 400-year-old Japanese covered bridge. (B) Days 14-15: Fly to Ho Chi Minh City Drive to Danang and fly to Ho Chi Minh City. Afternoon city tour. Following day is at leisure. Stay 2 nights at the Park Hyatt Saigon. (B, D) Day 16: Fly home (B)
Day 1: Fly to Hanoi (N) Days 2-3: Cruise in Halong Bay Arrive into Hanoi then drive north to Halong City and board the RV Angkor Pandaw for 10 nights. Spend this afternoon and the next morning exploring Halong Bay, an area of more than 1,600 islands and celebrated for its scenery. (B, L, D) Day 4: Cruise on the Bach Dang river This morning the ship will sail out of Halong Bay, passing Cat Ba island. In the afternoon the ship will enter the Bach Dang river and continue sailing upriver towards Pha Lai. (B, L, D) Day 5: Cruise on the Thai Binh river Sail upriver to the village of Duc Tai for a walk around the village and to visit a local family that specialises in weaving. Continue cruising up the Thai Binh river to Thanh Ha commune for a water puppet show, then on to Ninh Giang. (B, L, D) Days 6-7: Hanoi Cruise today towards Hanoi, stopping en route for a walking tour in Ninh Giang commune to visit the local market and taste a homemade cake known as banh gai. Arrive next morning in Hanoi for a tour of the city. (B, L, D) Days 8-9: Cruise on the Red River Leave Hanoi this morning and visit Bat Trang, a village which specialises in the production of ceramics, then continue sailing on the Red River to Viet Tri, an excellent base for venturing into the highlands of Vietnam to discover small villages, Buddhist statues and temples. (B, L, D) Days 10-11: Cruise on the Da river Turn back towards the coast and sail downstream on the Da river to Hòa Bình province, home of the Muon people. Take a boat ride on Hòa Bình power station reservoir, visit a local village and watch a cultural performance. (B, L, D) Day 12: Hòa Bình • Fly home Disembark in Hòa Bình after breakfast and visit a museum and local village where villagers still wear traditional dress. Transfer to Hanoi international airport for an evening flight to the UK. (B) Day 13: Early morning arrival (N)
Guideline Prices Low season from: £3,545 (Aug – Nov) High season from: £3,795 (Dec)
Guideline Prices Low season from: £2,695 (Jun) High season from: £3,195 (Oct – Nov)
11 Days & 9 Nights from £2,095
Day 1: Fly to Hanoi (N) Day 2: Hanoi Arrive in Hanoi and transfer to the Movenpick Hotel for 1 night. (N) Day 3: Halong Bay Morning city tour of Hanoi visiting Hoan Kiem lake and Ngoc Son temple, then drive north to Halong City. Stay 1 night at the Paradise Suites Hotel. (B, L) Days 4-5: Halong Bay cruise Morning at leisure. Board a luxury Paradise ship for a 2-night cruise on Halong Bay. Afternoon cruise towards Titop Island with an onboard cooking demonstration. The following morning there is an optional tai chi lesson, then cruise to Ho Ba Ham for swimming, kayaking and a visit to a fishing village, then squid fishing and dinner in the evening. (B, L, D) Day 6: Ninh Binh Morning visit to Vung Vieng fishing village, then disembark back in Halong City and drive south to Ninh Binh. Stay at the Tam Coc Garden Hotel for 1 night. (B) Day 7: Mai Chau Morning sampan (traditional wooden boat) ride through the But cave complex. Afternoon drive to Mai Chau and stay at the Mai Chau Ecolodge for 3 nights. (B, L, D) Day 8-9: Mai Chau Morning walk in the Pu Long Nature Reserve, then visit local villages in the Mai Chau highlands in the afternoon. The following day is at leisure. (B, L, D) Day 10: Red River delta • Hanoi Drive to Ky Son village in the Red River delta and take a guided walk round the village followed by lunch and a cooking demonstration. Afternoon bike ride in the surrounding countryside then drive to Hanoi. Stay 1 night at the Movenpick Hotel. (B, L) Day 11: Fly home (B) Guideline Prices Low season from: £2,095 (Aug – Nov) High season from: £2,255 (Dec)
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CAMBODIA
Discover Cambodia
Silver Pagoda, Phnom Penh
Phnom Penh
Cardamom Mountains
Royal Palace & the Silver Pagoda • Khmer Rouge history
Protected region of rare flora & fauna • Stay at a river lodge & explore the mangroves
Cambodia’s capital is awakening from a turbulent recent past to become a busy and vibrant city. Situated on the confluence of three rivers, it offers a mix of colonial buildings, temples, markets and broad avenues, including the striking Royal Palace complex and, within it, the elaborate Silver Pagoda. Overlooked by the imposing Independence Monument, the riverfront promenade comes alive in the evening with busy pavement cafes. For an insight into the country’s painful past under Khmer Rouge rule, visit the harrowing Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, located in central Phnom Penh in a former school building, or the killing fields of Choeung Ek, situated a short distance south of the city.
Located in south-west Cambodia, the Cardamom mountains cover more than 20,000 sq km, connected by boat and by road to Sihanoukville and Phnom Penh. This pristine mountain region is a designated conservation area, rated as one of the most important eco-regions in south-east Asia and home to more than 553 bird species. Cox & Kings recommends a stay at the 4 Rivers Floating Lodge on the Tatai river. Its 12 overwater tented villas provide an ideal base from which to discover the abundant wildlife, dense forest, waterfalls and mangroves. Explore the jungle on foot or kayak down the rivers and waterways, go fishing for your supper or simply take a dip in the river.
Siem Reap & Surrounds Explore rural Cambodia • Floating villages on Tonlé Sap • Prek Toal Bird Sanctuary The town of Siem Reap is the most popular of Cambodia’s tourist destinations as it offers easy access to the temples of Angkor. It is also an ideal base from which to explore the surrounding countryside and learn about the rural way of life here among the paddy fields. Nearby is Tonlé Sap, south-east Asia's largest freshwater lake where you can visit a floating village for a glimpse into the lives of those who make their living off the waters. Explore their stilted houses to see a how a fishing family live and perhaps learn how to handle traditional cast-fishing nets. To the east of Siem Reap, the Prek Toal Bird Sanctuary is an important breeding ground for globally threatened waterbirds such as cormorants, spot-billed pelicans and ibises, many of which have been driven away from neighbouring countries but are now thriving here.
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Floating village on Tonlé Sap, Siem Reap
CAMBODIA
The Angkor Temples Magnificent temples, carvings & jungle • Explore with an expert private guide These magnificent temples are protected within the Angkor Archaeological Park, just a 20-minute drive from Siem Reap. The temples of Angkor belong to the classic period of Khmer art and civilisation. They were created by a succession of Khmer kings who presided over an empire that dominated the region from 800AD to 1430AD, reaching its peak in the 12th century. From the 15th century the temples were abandoned and forgotten; the French naturalist Henri Mouhot is attributed with their rediscovery in 1861. Highlights include the walled and moated royal city of Angkor Thom, the giant stone faces of Bayon, and the huge three-tiered pyramid of Angkor Wat. At least two full days are recommended to get the most from the site, allowing time to visit some of the outer temples such as Preah Khan, Neak Pean, Prasat Kravan or Pre Rup. Angkor Wat, Siem Reap
C&K Recommends... Go beyond Angkor Wat on a temple safari
Venture deep into the jungle on a temple safari, staying in luxury tents among the ruins. In addition to Cambodia’s popular temples near Angkor Wat, visit previously inaccessible and relatively untouched sights. For an unforgettable adventure, take a 2- to 5-night safari visiting the remote temples of the north, such as Banteay Chhmar and Prasat Damrei. You can also explore the monastic complex of Preah Khan, the unrestored temples of Beng Mealea, and Prasat Thom, the vast pyramid at Koh Ker. The tents used are based on African safari tents, which are pitched within the grounds of the temples.
North gate of Angkor Thom, Siem Reap
A suggested itinerary...
Cambodia Explorer
16 Days & 13 Nights from £4,125 Venture beyond Angkor Wat and Phnom Penh with this comprehensive journey through the Khmer kingdom. Tour the remote temples of Kor Ker and Beng Mealea, visit charming Battambang and explore the mangroves and jungles of the Cardamom mountains in south-west Cambodia. Day 1: Fly to Siem Reap (N) Days 2-3: Siem Reap Arrive and transfer to HanumanAlaya for a 2-night stay. The following day take a tour of the temples with a private driver and guide. (B) Day 4: Temple safari Temple safari (available Oct – Apr) to the remote temple of Phnom Kulen. Overnight in a luxury tented camp. (B, L, D)
Temple safari
Days 5-6: Siem Reap Return to Siem Reap. The following day is at leisure. Stay at the HanumanAlaya for 2 nights. (B) Day 7: Battambang Early morning drive to the Ang Trapeang Thmor crane sanctuary for birdwatching. Continue to Battambang and stay at the Bambu Hotel for 2 nights. (B, L) Day 8: Battambang Visit Wat Banan, Wat Ek Phnom and Battambang Museum. (B) Day 9: Phnom Penh Morning drive to Phnom Penh. En route, visit the floating village of Kompong Luong and the pottery-making village of Kampong Chhnang (time permitting). Stay at the Samsara Villa hotel for 2 nights. (B) Day 10: Phnom Penh Visit the Royal Palace, the Silver Pagoda, the National Museum, the Tuol Sleng Museum of Genocide and the Killing Fields. (B, L)
Days 11-13: Cardamom mountains Drive to Tatai in the Cardamom mountains and transfer to the 4 Rivers Floating Lodge for 3 nights. Excursions to a fishing village, a kayak trip through the mangroves and a visit to the beautiful Tatai waterfall. (B, L, D) Day 14: Phnom Penh Return to Phnom Penh and stay overnight at the Samsara Villa hotel. (B) Days 15-16: Fly home (B) Guideline Prices Low season from: £4,125 (May – Jul) High season from: £4,395 (Oct – Nov)
Tailored travel
Contact our experts t e
020 7808 6786 [email protected]
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LAOS
Discover Laos
Wat Xieng thong temple, Luang Prabang
Luang Prabang & Surrounds Buddhist temples & colonial architecture • Cruise to the Pak Ou caves Considered the best-preserved town in south-east Asia, Luang Prabang is a former royal capital with a unique combination of Buddhist temples, French colonial architecture and historic Laotian buildings. Despite its popularity with tourists, the centre has retained its charm and low-key character, thanks in part to its status as a Unesco world heritage site. Highlights include the serene Buddhist temples where you can participate in the offering of alms (in the form of sticky rice) to saffron-clad monks at dawn. Further afield, cruise upstream on the Mekong to the caves of Pak Ou. Here, thousands of Buddhist statues look out of the caves, an accumulation of hundreds of years of offerings from worshippers to whom the caves are sacred. The nearby village of Ban Xang Khong is well known for its arts and crafts while to the south of the city are the beautiful waterfalls of Khouangsi where you can swim in the clear pools or explore on walking trails through native forest.
Vientiane Relaxed riverside capital • Temples & museums A world apart from other frantic Asian capitals, Vientiane remains a quiet and pleasant town. Situated on the banks of the Mekong river, the city presents a mixture of faded colonial French architecture, markets, silk weaving galleries, cafes and restaurants. It is also home to the country’s finest museums and temples. Wat Sisaket is the only temple left intact after the Siamese invasion of 1828, Wat Phra Keo has many stone carvings and statues, and the Laos National History Museum, housed in the old French governor’s mansion, has displays on archaeology and modern military history.
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Pha That Luang stupa, Vientiane
LAOS
The Plain of Jars Stunning mountain scenery • Mysterious stone jars The Plain of Jars, near the town of Phonsavan, is an intriguing sight. Here you will find more than 250 stone jars scattered across the landscape of the Xieng Khouang plain. Archaeologists believe the jars were used about 2,000 years ago but their origins and significance are still a mystery. Tools and ornaments were discovered in the area, left by a civilisation that has not yet been identified. Some believe these are traces of a lost Indo-Chinese people.
Stone carving, Vat Phou
Vat Phou Temples at Champasak Exquisite stone carvings • Beautiful mountainside setting The Vat Phou temple complex is a Unesco world heritage site located at the base of Phu Kha mountain, 50km south of Pakse. The original temple on the site is thought to have been built as early as the fifth century but the surviving structures date from the 11th to 13th centuries when the temple was part of the Khmer empire. Climb the hill behind the temple for some fine views over the whole site and the Mekong river beyond. Plain of Jars
A suggested itinerary...
The Laos Mekong Pandaw Cruise
13 Days & 10 Nights from £4,495 Cruise up the Mekong from Vientiane in Laos to northern Thailand, stopping en route at small riverside villages and markets. Highlights include the Unesco heritage town of Luang Prabang and a visit to the once notorious Golden Triangle. Day 1: Fly to Vientiane (N) Day 2: Vientiane Arrive into Vientiane and transfer to RV Laos Pandaw vessel. Afternoon city tour then set sail in the late afternoon. (L, D) Day 3: Cruise on the Mekong river Cruise upstream passing lush jungle scenery and tiny riverside villages. Enjoy lectures on board before arrival in Ban Xanakham. (B, L, D) Day 4: Pak Lai Afternoon visit to Pak Lai to visit French colonial
buildings and the local market. The largest elephant festival in south-east Asia is held here every February. (B, L, D) Day 5: Tribal villages Afternoon visit to the village of Ban Park Bor, home to the Khmu minority ethnic group. (B, L, D) Day 6: Ban Mouang Khai Morning cruise past the Xayaburi hydroelectric power plant, then continue upstream towards the village of Ban Mouang Khai. (B, L, D) Days 7-8: Luang Prabang Arrive in Luang Prabang for a tour to the Khouangsi waterfall, the butterfly garden and an elephant camp. Afternoon exploration of the city’s Buddhist temples, libraries and the royal palace. The following day join an early morning walking tour to see the alms-giving to the local monks, then visit the National Museum. (B, L, D) Day 9: Pak Ou caves Cruise by local boat to the Pak Ou caves, a Buddhist sanctuary with spectacular limestone cliff faces. Cruise upstream to Ban Bo. (B, L, D) Day 10: Pak Beng Morning tour of the town of Pak Beng. (B, L, D)
Day 11: Chiang Khong Cross the border from Laos to Thailand at Huay Say, then rejoin the ship at the Thai port town of Chiang Khong. (B, L, D) Days 12-13: Golden Triangle • Fly home Morning tour of the Golden Triangle, then transfer to Chiang Rai for your flight home, arriving the next day. (B) Guideline Prices Low season from: £4,495 (Jan – Mar) High season from: £4,695 (Oct)
Tailored travel
Contact our experts t e
020 7808 6786 [email protected]
Find out more at coxandkings.co.uk or from your travel agent
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VIETNAM, LAOS & CAMBODIA • TOURS
Grand Tour of Indochina Duration • 21 Days & 18 Nights Category • Superior & Luxury Tour overview This comprehensive tour takes in the best of Laos, Vietnam and Cambodia, staying in character hotels throughout. The journey begins in the relatively untouched country of Laos. Continue on to Vietnam, a rapidly developing and vibrant country. Explore the Mekong delta before a final journey through the captivating kingdom of Cambodia, ending at majestic Angkor Wat.
C&K highlights • 4- and 5-star accommodation options, chosen for their character and service • Wander in the ancient temple district of Luang Prabang, Laos • Cruises on Halong Bay and the Mekong delta, Vietnam • Discover Khmer Rouge history in Phnom Penh, Cambodia • Two full days exploring the temples of Angkor, Cambodia • Small group size – maximum 26
Weather Luang Prabang J F M A M J J A S O N D A 27 30 32 33 33 32 31 31 31 30 28 26 B 13 14 17 20 23 23 23 22 22 20 17 13 C 16 20 33 110 161 257 241 299 182 121 40 12
A: Maximum average temperature (C) B: Minimum average temperature (C) C: Average rainfall (mm)
Area Map
Group tour • From £3,795 Private tour • From £4,125 Day 1: Fly to Luang Prabang, Laos, via Bangkok Fly overnight from London (regional connections available) to Luang Prabang, via Bangkok, with Thai Airways. (N) Day 2: Luang Prabang Arrive and transfer to the Santi Resort & Spa (or similar) / Belmond La Résidence Phou Vao* for a 3-night stay. Enjoy a welcome dinner at a local restaurant.this evening. (D) Day 3: Luang Prabang Morning tour of the ancient temple district and the Royal Palace Museum. Afternoon visit to the Ock Pop Tok weaving centre. (B, L) Day 4: Luang Prabang Early morning optional excursion to see monks receiving alms (payable locally). After breakfast, take an excursion to Kuang Si Falls with a picnic lunch. Afternoon at leisure. (B, L) Day 5: Fly to Hanoi, Vietnam Morning at leisure. Optional boat trip to the Pak Ou caves (payable locally). Afternoon flight to Hanoi, and transfer to The Ann Hanoi / Sofitel Legend Metropole* for a 2-night stay. (B) Day 6: Hanoi Morning tour of Ho Chi Minh’s mausoleum† and residence, and One Pillar Pagoda. Continue to the Temple of Literature, Hoan Kiem lake and Ngoc Son temple. Lunch is at KOTO restaurant, an organisation that provides vocational training for underprivileged youth in Vietnam, followed by a visit to the Museum of Ethnology. In the evening there is an opportunity to see a water puppet show in Hanoi (payable locally). (B, L) Day 7: Halong Bay Drive to Halong Bay and board a traditional junk sailing vessel for an afternoon cruise and overnight accommodation. (B, L, D) Day 8: Fly to Danang • Hoi An Morning cruise around the karst limestone islands. Disembark in the late morning and drive to Hanoi airport for an evening flight to Danang. Transfer to the Palm Garden Beach Resort & Spa / Hotel Royal Hoi An* for a 3-night stay. (B, L) Day 9: Hoi An Morning walking tour of Hoi An. Lunch at Streets International restaurant, a social enterprise initiative with the aim of developing and operating sustainable programmes for street children. Afternoon at leisure, or join an optional excursion to the ruined temples of My Son (payable locally). (B, L)
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Day 10: Hoi An Day at leisure. Optional class at the Red Bridge cooking school (payable locally). (B) Day 11: Hué Morning drive over the spectacular Hai Van Pass to Hué (weather permitting), stopping at Cham Museum en route. Afternoon visit to the Tombs of the Nguyen emperors Tu Duc and Khai Dinh, then visit the Dong Ba market. Dinner will be taken in a restored royal home. Stay 1 night at the Imperial Hotel / La Residence Hué* (B, L, D) Day 12: Fly to Ho Chi Minh City Morning cyclo ride to the Imperial Citadel and the Purple Forbidden City, followed by a river cruise to Thien Mu pagoda. Transfer to the airport and fly to Ho Chi Minh City. Stay 3 nights at the Duxton Hotel / Caravelle Saigon*. (B) Day 13: Ho Chi Minh City Morning drive through the countryside to the Cu Chi tunnels. Afternoon city tour, visiting the Reunification Palace, Notre Dame cathedral and the War Remnants Museum. (B) Day 14: Mekong delta cruise Drive to Cai Be in the Mekong delta and board a cruise through the smaller channels. (B, L) Day 15: Fly to Phnom Penh, Cambodia Fly to Phnom Penh, and transfer to La Rose Boutique Hotel & Spa / Raffles Hotel Le Royal* for a 2-night stay. (B) Day 16: Phnom Penh Morning visit to the Royal Palace, the Silver Pagoda and the National Museum. Lunch at the restaurant of Pour un Sourire d’Enfant (PSE) training centre, a project that provides education for the city’s poorest children. Afternoon tour of the Tuol Sleng Museum of Genocide and the Choeung Ek Killing Fields. (B, L) Day 17: Fly to Siem Reap Fly to Siem Reap and stay at Tara Angkor Hotel / Belmond La Résidence d’Angkor* for 3 nights. Afternoon tour of the Roluos temples. (B) Day 18: Angkor temples Full-day tour of the temples. In the morning visit the magnificent Angkor Wat. Return to Siem Reap for lunch. In the afternoon explore Angkor Thom, the Terrace of the Elephants, the Terrace of the Leper King and the Bayon temple. (B, L) Day 19: Angkor temples Morning at leisure. Afternoon excursion to Banteay Srei temple and the small island temple of Neak Pean. Farewell dinner at a local restaurant. (B, D)
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Angkor Wat, Siem Reap
Day 20: Fly to London via Bangkok This afternoon, transfer to the airport and fly overnight to London via Bangkok. (B) Day 21: London Early morning arrival in London. (N) Meal basis: As per itinerary – B: Breakfast, L: Lunch, D: Dinner, N: No meals.
Important information Group tour manager: This tour is fully escorted throughout by a local tour manager from arrival in Luang Prabang. *Tour standards: Superior tour departures are based in 4-star accommodation. Luxury tour departures will feature upgraded accommodation as indicated by the asterisks. Prices are based on the standard room / cabin category, unless otherwise stated. Visit this tour on our website to see details of the hotels included. † Ho Chi Minh’s mausoleum: Each year, Ho Chi Minh’s mausoleum is closed between September and December for re-embalmment of the body and can only be visited from outside.
Private & tailor-made travel: This itinerary can be taken privately on a date that suits you, for which guideline prices are shown. Alternatively, it can be tailored to your exact requirements. Please call 020 7808 6786 or email [email protected].
Guideline prices for 2017-18 Group tour: Superior departures Low season from £3,795 Guide price months: Nov 17
Group tour: Luxury departures Low season from £5,495 Guide price months: Mar 17
Private travel: Superior Low season from £4,125 Guide price months: Jul
High season from £4,095 Guide price months: Feb 18
High season from £5,775 Guide price months: Jan – Mar 18
High season from £4,295 Guide price months: Oct
Single supplement from £795
Single supplement from £2,125
Single supplement: POA
The guideline high season prices may be significantly lower than the peak season prices (15 Dec – 03 Jan) Group tours include: International flights • Transfers • Experienced local tour manager / The best local guides • All accommodation • All sightseeing described • All entrance fees • Meals as per itinerary Thai Airways flight upgrades Royal Silk Class from £1,995 return
Regional air connections Please speak to your consultant for details
The guideline tour prices are all per person in UK pounds, based on two people sharing a twin/double room. For current prices for all departure dates, including special offers when applicable, please call 020 7808 6786, email [email protected] or visit coxandkings.co.uk. All prices are subject to availability.
Superior group tour departure dates for 2017-18 Out Rtn 03 Feb 17 23 Feb 17 24 Feb 17 16 Mar 17
Out Rtn 10 Mar 17 30 Mar 17 20 Oct 17 09 Nov 17
Out Rtn 03 Nov 17 23 Nov 17 02 Feb 18 22 Feb 18
Luxury group tour departure dates for 2017-18 Out Rtn 13 Jan 17 02 Feb 17 17 Feb 17 09 Mar 17
Out Rtn 03 Mar 17 23 Mar 17 10 Nov 17 30 Nov 17
Out Rtn 12 Jan 18 01 Feb 18 23 Feb 18 15 Mar 18
Tour code: LVS Out Rtn 23 Feb 18 15 Mar 18 09 Mar 18 29 Mar 18
Tour code: LVC Out Rtn 02 Mar 18 22 Mar 18
Find out more at coxandkings.co.uk or from your travel agent
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VIETNAM • TOURS
Spirit of Vietnam Duration • 14 Days & 11 Nights Category • Superior & Luxury
Group tour • From £1,925 Private tour • From £2,395 develop and operate sustainable programmes for street children. In the afternoon, take a walking tour of the former trading port of Hoi An, which has historic Chinese, Japanese and European influences. (B, L)
Tour overview Discover the varied sights, sounds and flavours of this enchanting country, touring the fascinating cities of Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon), the Vietnam war-era Cu Chi tunnels and the historic pearls of Hué and Hoi An. A cruise on the Mekong delta and the magnificent landscapes of Halong Bay, including a night on a traditional junk boat, are all included in this superb tour of Vietnam.
Day 7: Hoi An Day at leisure. Optional classes at the Red Bridge cooking school (payable locally). (B) Day 8: Hué Morning drive over the spectacular Hai Van Pass (weather permitting) to Hué, visiting the Museum of Cham Sculpture en route. Afternoon visit to the tombs of the Nguyen emperors Tu Duc and Khai Dinh. Stay at the Imperial Hotel / La Residence Hué * for 2 nights. (B, L)
C&K highlights • Staying in well-located 4- and 5-star hotels • Direct flights on state-of-the-art Dreamliner aircraft • Junk boat cruise on the spectacular Halong Bay • Dinner at a restored royal home of the Nguyen dynasty • Full-day exploration of the Mekong delta’s waterways • Explore the Cu Chi tunnels, a vivid reminder of the Vietnam war • Day at leisure in Hoi An • Small group size – maximum 26 people
Weather Hanoi J F M A M J J A S O N D A 20 20 23 27 32 33 33 32 31 29 25 22 B 14 15 18 21 25 26 26 26 25 22 19 15 C 22 28 42 97 181 242 258 297 225 125 57 19
A: Maximum average temperature (C) B: Minimum average temperature (C) C: Average rainfall (mm)
Area Map
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Citadel, Hué
Day 1: Fly to Hanoi via Hong Kong Overnight flight from London (regional connections available) direct to Hanoi with Vietnam Airlines on new state-of-the-art Dreamliner aircraft (see pages 158 to 159 for more details). (N) Day 2: Hanoi Morning arrival. Transfer to the Mövenpick Hotel / Sofitel Legend Metropole* for 2 nights. Welcome dinner at Le Tonkin. (D) Day 3: Hanoi Morning tour of Ho Chi Minh’s mausoleum†, the One Pillar Pagoda, the Temple of Literature, Hoan Kiem lake and Ngoc Son temple. Lunch is at KOTO restaurant, an organisation that provides vocational training for underprivileged youth in Vietnam, followed by a visit to the Museum of Ethnology (subject to local conditions). Optional evening excursion to a water puppet show (payable locally). (B, L) Day 4: Halong Bay Morning drive to Halong Bay to board a junk boat (traditional Chinese sailing vessel) and cruise around the limestone islands. Overnight on board. (B, L, D)
Day 9: Hué Morning cyclo ride to the Citadel and the Purple Forbidden City, then cruise to Thien Mu pagoda. After lunch, visit the Dong Ba market, then continue to Kim garden to see a martial arts performance. Dinner at a restored royal home of the Nguyen dynasty. (B, L, D) Day 10: Fly to Ho Chi Minh City Morning flight to Ho Chi Minh City and transfer to the Hotel Renaissance Riverside / Caravelle Hotel* for a 3-night stay. Afternoon tour of the Reunification Palace, Notre Dame cathedral and the War Remnants Museum. (B) Day 11: Mekong delta Full-day exploration of the Mekong delta, including a boat trip along smaller creeks. (B, L) Day 12: Cu Chi tunnels After breakfast, drive through the southern Vietnamese countryside and visit the Cu Chi tunnels. Remainder of the day at leisure. Farewell dinner. (B, D) Day 13: Fly to London Day at leisure. Transfer to the airport then fly overnight direct to London. (B) Day 14: London Early morning arrival. (N)
Day 5: Fly to Hoi An Morning cruise in Halong Bay. Disembark and drive to Hanoi airport and fly to Hoi An, one of Asia’s most enchanting towns. Stay 3 nights at the Palm Garden Beach Resort & Spa / Hotel Royal Hoi An*, both located within walking distance of Hoi An Ancient Town. (B, L)
Meal basis: As per itinerary – B: Breakfast, L: Lunch, D: Dinner, N: No meals.
Day 6: Hoi An Morning tour of the ruined temple of My Son. Lunch at Streets International restaurant, a social enterprise initiative with the purpose to
Extension starts on Day 13 of tour
Contact us on 020 7808 6786 or [email protected]
Extension Tour + Mui Ne beach 4 Days & 3 Nights from £295 End your tour on the beaches of Mui Ne, a coastal resort 4.5 hours’ drive from Ho Chi Minh
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Halong Bay
Guideline prices for 2017-18 City, with a 3-night stay at the Mia Resort Mui Ne. Trips to alternative beach locations can be arranged, including Phu Quoc island, the Con Dao islands and Nha Trang. See pages 116 to 17.
Important information Group tour manager: This tour is fully escorted throughout by a local tour manager from arrival in Hanoi. *Tour standards: Superior tour departures are based in 4-star accommodation. Luxury tour departures will feature upgraded accommodation as indicated by the asterisks. Prices are based on the standard room / cabin category, unless otherwise stated. Please visit this tour on our website to see details of the hotels included. Ho Chi Minh’s mausoleum: Each year, Ho Chi Minh’s mausoleum is closed between October and December for re-embalmment of the body and can only be visited from outside.
†
Private & tailor-made travel: This itinerary can be taken privately on a date that suits you, for which guideline prices are shown. Alternatively, it can be tailored to your exact requirements. Please call 020 7808 6786 or email [email protected].
Group tour: Superior departures Low season from £1,925 Guide price months: Nov
Group tour: Luxury departures Low season from £2,495 Guide price months: Nov
Private travel: Superior Low season from £2,395 Guide price months: May – Jul
High season from £2,095 Guide price months: Feb
High season from £2,695 Guide price months: Jan – Feb
High season from £2,595 Guide price months: Nov
Single supplement from £585
Single supplement from £1,025
Single supplement: POA
The guideline high season prices may be significantly lower than the peak season prices (15 Dec – 03 Jan) roup tours include: International flights • Transfers • Experienced local tour manager / The best G local guides • All accommodation • All sightseeing described • All entrance fees • Meals as per itinerary Vietnam Airlines flight upgrades Deluxe Economy from £875 return Business Class from £2,460 return
Regional air connections Please speak to your consultant for details
The guideline tour prices are all per person in UK pounds, based on two people sharing a twin/double room. For current prices for all departure dates, including special offers when applicable, please call 020 7808 6786, email [email protected] or visit coxandkings.co.uk. All prices are subject to availability.
Superior group tour departure dates for 2017-18 Out 16 Feb 17 09 Mar 17
Rtn 01 Mar 17 22 Mar 17
Out 19 Oct 17 16 Nov 17
Rtn 01 Nov 17 29 Nov 17
Luxury group tour departure dates for 2017-18 Out 12 Jan 17 23 Feb 17
Rtn 25 Jan 17 08 Mar 17
Out 26 Oct 17 09 Nov 17
Rtn 08 Nov 17 22 Nov 17
Tour code: SPV Out 15 Feb 18 08 Mar 18
Rtn 28 Feb 18 21 Mar 18
Tour code: VLD Out 11 Jan 18 22 Feb 18
Rtn 24 Jan 18 07 Mar 18
Find out more at coxandkings.co.uk or from your travel agent
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VIETNAM & CAMBODIA • TOURS
Vietnam & the Temples of Angkor Duration • 12 Days & 9 Nights Category • Superior
Solo
Group tour • From £2,995
Tour overview Escorted throughout by an expert local guide, join a group of like-minded solo travellers on a tour of the varied sights, sounds and flavours of Vietnam, followed by a visit to one of the cultural highlights of south-east Asia – the Angkor Wat temples. Along the way, cruise on the Mekong delta and through the magnificent landscapes of Halong Bay, cycle through the countryside near Hoi An and take excursions to discover some of Asia’s cultural history.
C&K highlights • Twin / double rooms for single use in 4-star hotels • Welcome and farewell group dinners • Direct flights on state-of-the-art Dreamliner aircraft • Cruise on the waters of the Mekong delta and spectacular Halong Bay • Full day exploring the Angkor temples until sunset • Vietnamese cooking class • Small group size – maximum 18 people
Weather Ho Chi Minh City J F M A M J J A S O N D A 31 32 33 34 33 32 31 31 31 31 31 31 B 21 22 23 24 25 24 24 24 24 23 23 22 C 15 8 23 63 183 261 257 249 270 255 156 65
A: Maximum average temperature (C) B: Minimum average temperature (C) C: Average rainfall (mm)
Area Map
Buddhist faces of the Bayon temple, Siem Reap
Day 1: Fly to Hanoi, Vietnam Overnight flight from London (regional connections available) to Hanoi with Vietnam Airlines on the new state-of-the-art Dreamliner aircraft (see page 158-159 for more details). (N) Day 2: Hanoi You will be met at the airport and transferred to the Mövenpick Hotel for 2 nights. Welcome dinner to meet your fellow travellers. (D) Day 3: Hanoi Morning visit to a fresh food market, followed by a class in Vietnamese cooking. Afternoon tour of Hanoi’s cultural sights, then spend the evening watching a traditional water puppet show. (B, L, D) Day 4: Halong Bay Morning drive to Halong Bay to board a junk boat (traditional Chinese sailing vessel) and cruise around the limestone islands. Boat activities include kayaking and swimming in the bay, squid fishing and tai chi lessons. Overnight on board. (B, L, D) Day 5: Fly to Hoi An Morning cruise in Halong Bay. Disembark and drive to Hanoi airport and fly to Hoi An. Stay 2 nights at the Palm Garden Beach Resort & Spa, located 5 minutes’ walk from Hoi An’s Unesco-listed Ancient Town. (B, L, D) Day 6: Hoi An Morning cycling excursion through the countryside outside the city. Afternoon at leisure or join a guided walking tour of Hoi An. (B) Day 7: Fly to Ho Chi Minh City Early flight to Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon), then
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transfer to the Hotel Renaissance Riverside for a 2-night stay. Afternoon city tour followed by a visit to the Cu Chi tunnels, then return to the city for dinner. (B, D) Day 8: Mekong delta Full-day exploration of the Mekong delta, including a boat trip along the Bamboo Canal and a sampan ride exploring the smaller channels. (B, L) Day 9: Fly to Siem Reap, Cambodia Morning flight to Siem Reap in Cambodia. Take a walk through the countryside to Mechrey floating village, where there may be the chance to try your hand at rural skills such as fishing, cooking and rice planting. Take a boat trip on Tonlé lake, then return to the village and enjoy dinner at a family home. Stay 2 nights at the Tara Angkor Hotel in Siem Reap. (B, D) Day 10: Angkor temples Visit the ruins of Angkor Thom, the Royal Palace and the temples of Bayon, Baphoun and Phimeanakas. Afternoon visit to Ta Phrom, a hugely atmospheric temple which has been left unrestored, with huge tree trunks and vines snaking around the centuries-old stonework. End at the magnificent Angkor Wat temple, then watch the sun set over the monuments. Farewell dinner back in Siem Reap. (B, D) Day 11: Fly to London via Ho Chi Minh City Day at leisure for shopping in Siem Reap. Transfer to the airport and fly to Ho Chi Minh City, then catch the late evening flight to London. (B) Day 12: London Early morning arrival. (N)
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Yen stream on the way to Huong pagoda, Hanoi
Meal basis: As per itinerary – B: Breakfast, L: Lunch, D: Dinner, N: No meals.
Guideline prices for 2017-18
Important information
Group tour Low season from £2,995 Guide price months: Oct 17
Solo Travellers group tours: These small group tours have been specially created for single travellers. Benefits include single occupancy of double / twin rooms as standard and at sensible prices, plus the company of like-minded travellers. View the complete collection at coxandkings.co.uk/solo-travellers. Group tour manager: This tour is fully escorted throughout by a local tour manager from arrival in Hanoi. Superior tour: This tour is based in 4-star accommodation. Please visit this tour on our website to see details of the hotels included.
Tour code: VFS
High season from £3,195 Guide price months: Feb 18
roup tours include: International flights • Transfers • Experienced local tour manager / The best G local guides • All accommodation • All sightseeing described • All entrance fees • Meals as per itinerary Vietnam Airlines flight upgrades Deluxe Economy from £875 return Business Class from £2,460 return
Regional air connections Please speak to your consultant for details
The guideline tour prices are all per person in UK pounds, based on single occupancy of a twin/double room. For current prices for all departure dates, including special offers when applicable, please call 020 7808 6786, email [email protected] or visit coxandkings.co.uk.
Departure dates for 2017-18 Out Rtn 23 Feb 17 06 Mar 17
Out Rtn 16 Mar 17 27 Mar 17
Out Rtn 12 Oct 17 23 Oct 17
Out Rtn 22 Feb 18 05 Mar 18
Find out more at coxandkings.co.uk or from your travel agent
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LAOS & CAMBODIA • TOURS
Laos & Cambodia: Temples & Treasures Duration • 13 Days & 10 Nights Category • Superior
Expert-led group tour • From £3,795 Lecturer • Denise Heywood
Tour overview Accompanied by expert lecturer Denise Heywood who has lived in the region, begin your tour in serene Luang Prabang in Laos, filled with glittering temples. Cruise on the Mekong river to sacred caves before flying to Vientiane. End the tour with a stay in Siem Reap to marvel at the mystical 12th-century temple of Angkor Wat, the largest religious monument in the world and the highlight of the tour.
C&K highlights • Private curator talk at the Traditional Arts & Ethnology Centre, Luang Prabang • Special private visit to silkweaver Carol Cassidy’s Lao Textiles Gallery • Traditional Laotian welcome ceremony • Spend 5 days at Angkor Wat • Experience a Mekong river cruise
Expert lecturer Denise Heywood is an author, lecturer, journalist and photographer who worked in Cambodia for three years. Her books include Ancient Luang Prabang & Laos and Cambodian Dance: Celebration of the Gods. A lecturer for the National Association of Decorative and Fine Art Societies (Nadfas), Art Fund and the School of Oriental and African Studies (Soas), she has lectured worldwide on Asian art and culture.
Area Map
Ta Phrom temple, Siem Reap
Day 1: Fly to Luang Prabang, Laos, via Bangkok Fly from London Heathrow (regional connections available) to Luang Prabang via Bangkok with Thai Airways and Bangkok Airways. (N) Day 2: Luang Prabang Arrive and transfer to the Villa Santi Hotel (or similar) for 4 nights. Luang Prabang, a world heritage site with 35 golden temples, is the best-preserved town in south-east Asia. Afternoon at leisure. Evening introductory lecture and welcome dinner. (D) Day 3: Luang Prabang Temple tour, including Wat Visoun, Wat Mai and Wat Xieng Thong. Along the way see other temples, fine secular architecture and French colonial buildings. Afternoon visit to the National Museum, formerly the royal palace, with fascinating collections of objects, paintings and costumes. In the evening, see Heritage House, a perfect example of Luang Prabang’s secular buildings, and enjoy a traditional baci welcome ceremony at the historic Puang Champa Cultural House. (B) Day 4: Pak Ou Today, cruise on the Mekong river to the Pak Ou caves, filled with Buddha images. Have lunch in a wooden cottage overlooking the river before visiting a picturesque village to see silk weaving, sericulture and mulberry paper production. Late afternoon at leisure, with a chance to visit Mount Phousi at sunset, or listen to a Gavarak storytelling. (B, L) Day 5: Luang Prabang Morning visit to the Traditional Arts & Ethnology
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Centre for a special private tour, introduced by the centre’s director. Special private visit to a traditional teakwood home furnished with antiques (subject to availability). Afternoon at leisure or visit other temples, study murals and iconography or visit The Living Land Company, an inspiring community farm. (B) Day 6: Fly to Vientiane Optional visit to Vipassana Meditation Centre. Fly to Vientiane and transfer to Green Park Boutique Hotel (or similar) for 2 nights. Visit Patuxai Monument and That Luang, the national symbol of Laos. (B) Day 7: Vientiane Visit Wat Sisaket and Wat Phra Keo, followed by a special private visit with silkweaver Carol Cassidy at Lao Textiles Gallery. Optional afternoon visit to the National Museum in Vientiane. (B) Day 8: Fly to Siem Reap, Cambodia Fly to Siem Reap and stay 4 nights at the Tara Angkor Resort & Spa (or similar). Afternoon introductory lecture followed by a visit to Ta Prohm temple, now restored but still shrouded in tropical trees. (B) Day 9: Angkor temples Morning visit to the early Roluos temples, the oldest group of temples, including Preah Ko, Bakong and Lolei. Afternoon visit to Angkor Wat. Stay until sunset to admire the bas-reliefs of the Hindu epics. (B) Day 10: Angkor temples Morning at Angkor Wat. Afternoon visit to Angkor Thom, the Bayon temple, Terrace of the Elephants and Terrace of the Leper King. (B)
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Wat Xieng Thong, Luang Prabang
Day 11: Angkor temples Morning visit to Banteay Srei, followed by Banteay Samre. Afternoon at leisure or optional excursions to less-visited temples. Exclusive farewell dinner with authentic Khmer cuisine and traditional dance performance. (B, D) Day 12: Fly to London, via Bangkok Day at leisure. Optional visits to the Angkor National Museum and further temples or local markets. Late afternoon transfer to Siem Reap airport. Fly to London, via Bangkok, with Thai Airways and Bangkok Airways. (B)
If you wish to discover more of Indochina or stopover in Bangkok, please contact Cox & Kings for details.
Expert-led tour: This tour is fully escorted throughout by the lecturer, as well as experienced local guides.
Important information
Superior tour: This tour is based in 4- and 5-star accommodation. Please visit this tour on our website to see details of the hotels included.
Royal Academy of Arts (RA) tours A collection of expert-accompanied tours focusing on creativity in its many forms. All RA tours are open to everyone and can be viewed at coxandkings.co.uk/ra.
Day 13: London Early morning arrival into London. (N)
Dates & guideline prices for 2017-18
Meal basis: As per itinerary – B: Breakfast, L: Lunch, D: Dinner, N: No meals.
04 Feb – 16 Feb 17 18 Nov – 30 Nov 17 03 Feb – 15 Feb 18 17 Nov – 29 Nov 18
Extension Tour + Siem Reap 3 Days & 2 Nights from £295 Extension starts on Day 12 of Tour
Extend your stay at the Tara Angkor Resort & Spa in Siem Reap for more time to explore the temples of Angkor. Includes airport transfer.
with Denise Heywood with Denise Heywood with Denise Heywood with Denise Heywood
Accessibility: This tour involves some long walks over uneven ground and therefore requires a good level of fitness.
Tour code: LCA from £3,795 from £3,795 from £3,795 from £3,795
single supp from £595 single supp from £595 single supp from £595 single supp from £595
Group tours include: International flights • Transfers • Expert lecturer • The best local guides • All accommodation • All sightseeing described • All entrance fees • Meals as per itinerary Flight upgrades Royal Silk Class from £1,995 return
Regional air connections Please speak to your consultant for details
The guideline tour prices are all per person in UK pounds, based on two people sharing a twin / double room. For current prices for all departure dates, including special offers when applicable, please call 020 7808 6786, email [email protected] or visit coxandkings.co.uk. All prices are subject to availability.
Find out more at coxandkings.co.uk or from your travel agent
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CAMBODIA • TOURS
Cambodia in Style Duration • 12 Days & 9 Nights
Category • Luxury
Private tour • From £3,525
Tour overview This tour explores a variety of key sights and lesser-known areas, from the ancient Angkor temples to the historic attractions of the Cambodian capital, Phnom Penh, and the tiny coastal province of Kep. Along the way, stay in luxurious accommodation, including intimate boutique lodgings near the Angkor temples, a landmark city hotel in Phnom Penh and finishing in a tranquil beach retreat. Dinners in Siem Reap are held in private houses in the Cambodian countryside.
C&K highlights • Luxury accommodation including Raffles Phnom Penh and Belmond La Résidence d’Angkor • Explore the temples of Angkor with an expert guide, avoiding the crowds • Private dinner in the Cambodian countryside • Relax in the coastal resort of Kep • Optional helicopter ride over Ankor Wat and Mekong sunset cruise
Weather Siem Reap J F M A M J J A S O N D A 31 34 36 36 34 33 32 32 31 30 31 30
National Museum, Phnom Penh
Day 1: Fly to Siem Reap (N) Day 2: Siem Reap Arrive in Siem Reap and stay at Belmond La Résidence d’Angkor for 3 nights. (N)
B 19 21 23 24 25 24 24 24 24 24 22 20 C 1
9 28 64 146 166 186 224 250 215 61 7
A: Maximum average temperature (C) B: Minimum average temperature (C) C: Average rainfall (mm)
Area Map
Day 3: Angkor temples Full-day discovery of Angkor’s temples with an expert guide who will suggest ways of avoiding the crowds or seeing the places that interest you the most. A sample tour starts at Ta Prohm before the crowds arrive, then on to Banteay Srei temple. Afternoon visit to the smaller, outer temples, then into the countryside for a private cooking lesson. (B, L, D) Day 4: Angkor temples Watch the sun rise over the royal bathing pool of Sra Sang near the Banteay Kdei temple, then enjoy breakfast at Sala Kdei, a beautiful traditional wooden house. Afterwards, visit the legendary Angkor Wat temple. In the afternoon, tour Angkor Thom and Bayon. Dinner at the Sala Roluos private house in the countryside outside Siem Reap. (B, L, D) Day 5: Phnom Penh Optional morning helicopter ride over Angkor Wat and Tonlé Sap (must be pre-booked), then drive to Phnom Penh and transfer to the Raffles Hotel Le Royal for a 3-night stay. (B)
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Day 6: Phnom Penh Begin at Wat Phnom, the city’s first pagoda, then visit some of the iconic buildings that tell the story of Phnom Penh. See French colonialera buildings, hidden back-street Chinese temples and the French Embassy, site of the final evacuation of foreigners still in the city when the Khmer Rouge took over in 1975. Finish the tour with a view over the capital from one of its highest points. (B, L) Day 7: Phnom Penh Day at leisure. Optional tour to visit the Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda, the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum and the killing fields of Choeung Ek. Explore the National Museum with its collection of Angkor-era art at your own pace. Optional evening Mekong river sunset cruise (shared excursion – book in advance). (B) Day 8: Kep Drive from Phnom Penh to Kep and stay at the Knai Bang Chatt boutique hotel for 3 nights. (B) Days 9-10: Kep Days at leisure. Optional excursions to the beaches of Koh Tonsay island, walking in Kep National Park or visits to cave temples. (B) Days 11-12: Fly home Take an overnight flight home and arrive the next day (B)
Ancient ruins, Angkor
Meal basis: As per itinerary – B: Breakfast, L: Lunch, D: Dinner, N: No meals.
Extension Tour + Song Saa Private Island 5 Days & 3 Nights from £2,195 Extension starts on Day 11 of tour
Extend your holiday with a stay at Song Saa Private Island, a luxurious resort reached by speedboat transfer from Sihanoukville. All meals, house wines and spirits are included. The resort hosts a world-class spa and marine reserve.
Important information Locally escorted tour: This tour is led in each destination en route by a local tour guide. Luxury tour: Featuring some of the most luxurious accommodation throughout the tour. Prices are based on the standard room, unless otherwise stated. Please visit this tour on our website to see details of the hotels included. Tailor-made travel: For a price quote based on alternative accommodation standards, to discuss flight options or to tailor this itinerary, please call 020 7808 6786 or email [email protected].
Guideline prices for 2017 Low season from £3,525 Guide price months: May – Jul High season from £4,125 Guide price months: Oct – Nov The guideline high season prices may be significantly lower than the peak season prices (15 Dec – 03 Jan)
Find out more at coxandkings.co.uk or from your travel agent
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VIETNAM, LAOS & CAMBODIA
Mekong River Cruising A cruise is one of the best ways to discover the daily life of people living along this great river. Most cruises sail between Vietnam and Cambodia while for the more adventurous there are cruises between Laos and Thailand or join an exploratory cruise up to Jinghong in China. Cox & Kings has selected the best boats available, which allow you to explore the far-flung reaches of these waterways, taking you to sights that are otherwise inaccessible. Smaller boats are used on excursions to transfer guests from the main ship to the shore or to traverse the smaller channels. These excursions are escorted by expert local guides who can explain in detail about life on the river. All vessels stop at riverside villages, which often specialise in a particular trade or craft such as pottery, silk weaving or fish farming. Another feature of river life is the constant flow of smaller boats on the waterways, engaged in fishing, transportation or congregating as a floating market such as the one at Cai Be.
Mekong river, Vang Vieng, Laos
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Contact us on 020 7808 6786 or [email protected]
Sun deck, Aqua Mekong
Aqua Expeditions Luxury Aqua Mekong river cruiser • Floating boutique hotel The Aqua Mekong is a 20-suite vessel, the third and latest in the Aqua Expeditions fleet, offering 3-, 4- and 7-night expeditions. Designed by Vietnam-based architects Noor Design, the boat uses local materials and artisanal touches. Suites feature a twin bed convertible to a California king, floor-to-ceiling windows, an indoor seating area and, for balcony cabins, an outdoor seating area. The large bathrooms feature a picture window, two sinks and walk-in shower with rainforest showerhead.
Aqua Mekong
The boat features indoor and outdoor bars, a screening room, a library and games room, outdoor shaded lounge with daybeds, a shop, an observation deck with sunbeds, a spa and a top deck exercise room overlooking the river. Meals are served in the dining room or in the outdoor private dining area, with a menu designed by top Australian chef David Thompson. The crew consist of 40 personnel, including a cruise director and four English-speaking guides. Excursions are conducted using a fleet of four speedboats, with a maximum of 10 in each guided group. There is also a limited supply of bicycles on board.
Suite, Aqua Mekong
Find out more at coxandkings.co.uk or from your travel agent
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VIETNAM & CAMBODIA • TOURS
A River Journey on the Mekong Duration • 14 Days & 12 Nights
Category • Luxury
the village of Angkor Ban to learn more about village life. Later this evening begin sailing to Kampong Cham. (B, L, D)
Tour overview Explore one of the world’s great rivers on this 7-night cruise on the Mekong, passing small riverside villages and sleepy temples that, being inaccessible by road, are well off the tourist trail. These river cruisers are the ideal way to explore remote locations while retaining access to luxury accommodation and facilities back on board. This journey can be taken either up or downstream, ending or beginning at the legendary temples of Angkor.
Day 9: Visit countryside & temples Sail upriver to the hilltop pre-Angkorian temple of Wat Hanchey and enjoy the panoramic views of the Cambodian countryside. Afterwards, sail back to Kampong Cham visiting the Wat Nokor temple along the way. Moor overnight near Kampong Cham. (B, L, D)
C&K highlights • Cruise in style on the Jayavarman or Jahan luxury vessel • Stay in luxury hotels in Ho Chi Minh City & Siem Reap • Visit remote riverbank villages, temples and markets • Enjoy the peace of the river and experience life in the Mekong delta • Visit the Angkor temples, Phnom Penh and Ho Chi Minh City
Weather Phnom Penh J F M A M J J A S O N D A 32 32 34 34 34 33 32 32 31 31 30 30 B 21 22 23 24 25 24 25 25 24 24 23 22 C 6
8 29 68 166 156 149 162 245 263 115 27
A: Maximum average temperature (C) B: Minimum average temperature (C) C: Average rainfall (mm)
Area Map
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Private tour • From £3,375
Angkor Wat
Day 10: Tonlé Sap lake Set sail today up the Tonlé river, which connects Tonlé lake with the Mekong and Bassac rivers that merge at Phnom Penh. Take an excursion to the pottery village of Aundaung Russey. A farewell dinner will be held this evening. Moor overnight in the middle of the lake. (B, L, D)
Day 2: Ho Chi Minh City Arrive and transfer to the Caravelle Hotel for 2 nights. (N)
Day 11: Siem Reap Early morning crossing of the huge Tonlé Sap lake, then disembark and continue to Siem Reap. Arrive and transfer to Belmond La Résidence d’Angkor for 3 nights. (B)
Day 3: Ho Chi Minh City Morning tour of the Cu Chi tunnels, the underground network dug out by the Viet Cong. Return to Ho Chi Minh City for city tour. (B, L)
Days 12: Angkor temples Full-day tour of the smaller temples of Angkor, including the Roluos Group, Banteay Srei, Preah Khan and Neak Pean. (B, L)
Day 4: Mekong cruise Transfer to My Tho to board the Jayavarman / Jahan for a 7-night cruise to Siem Reap. Spend the afternoon navigating the waters of the Mekong delta towards Cai Be. (B, D)
Day 13: Angkor Wat & Angkor Thom This morning, explore picturesque Ta Phrom and Prasat Tanei where a light picnic breakfast is served. Continue to the jewel of the Khmer empire: Angkor Wat. In the afternoon, visit Angkor Thom, the Terrace of the Elephants and the Terrace of the Leper King. End the day with a visit to Bayon at sunset. (B)
Day 1: Fly to Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) (N)
Day 5: Cai Be • Sa Dec • Binh Thanh island In the morning, take a boat trip around Cai Be to see the floating market and explore the islands and orchards of the delta. In the afternoon, cruise to Sa Dec and enjoy a traditional sampan ride to Binh Thanh island, then continue to Tan Chau. (B, L, D) Day 6: Tan Chau Morning excursion to a local market and village that specialises in catfish farming. Return to the boat and continue upriver, crossing the border into Cambodia’s capital, Phnom Penh. (B, L, D)
Day 14: Fly home (B) Meal basis: As per itinerary – B: Breakfast, L: Lunch, D: Dinner, N: No meals.
Guideline prices for 2017 Low season from £3,375 (Jayavarman) Guide price months: Jul – Aug
Day 7: Phnom Penh Full-day tour of Phnom Penh, including the Royal Palace, Silver Pagoda, the National Museum, the killing fields of Choeung Ek and the Tuol Sleng Museum of Genocide. Dinner is followed by a performance of traditional Apsara dance. (B, L, D)
High season from £4,125 (Jayavarman) Guide price months: Oct – Nov
Day 8: Chong Koh • Angkor Ban • Kampong Cham Sail to Chong Koh and visit the riverside village here that specialises in silk weaving, then on to
This tour departs the UK on Wednesdays. Itineraries are subject to change and amendments due to local conditions and seasonal water levels. There are no departures in May.
Contact us on 020 7808 6786 or [email protected]
The guideline high season prices may be significantly lower than the peak season prices (15 Dec – 05 Jan)
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Floating fruit market, Mekong delta
Important information Locally escorted tour: This tour is led in each destination en route by a local tour guide. Luxury tour: Featuring some of the most luxurious accommodation throughout the tour. Prices are based on the standard room or cabin category, unless otherwise stated. Please visit this tour on our website to see details of the hotels included. Non-exclusive cruise: When on board the cruise, the transfers and excursions relevant to that cruise are operated as a group with other passengers who may or may not be Cox & Kings clients.
The Jayavarman
Inspired by the golden-age cruise liner Normandie, the Jayavarman was Indochina’s first boutique-style river cruiser. All 27 spacious cabins and suites are beautifully furnished and have floor-to-ceiling sliding doors leading to private balconies. Facilities include a dining room, bar and lounge, sun deck, library with internet workstation, observatory with binoculars and the Apsara beauty salon and spa.
The Jahan
The sister ship to the Jayavarman, the Jahan offers a luxury cruising experience, with 26 elegant cabins furnished in a distinctive British Indian colonial style. On board, facilities include the Viceroy dining hall, which serves western, Khmer and Vietnamese specialities; the Funnel Bar; a pool deck; a gym and steam bath. Signature services include high tea in the observatory, a cruise concierge desk and private shore excursions with a tour assistant.
Itinerary: The itinerary that is shown above is correct for times of high water in the region, typically from mid-September to the end of December. At other times of the year, water levels on Tonlé Sap are too low to navigate, meaning that the excursions above will be rearranged and, on Day 11, a coach will transport passengers from Kampong Cham to Siem Reap. Tailor-made travel: For a price quote based on alternative accommodation standards, to discuss flight options or to tailor this itinerary, please call 020 7808 6786 or email [email protected].
Find out more at coxandkings.co.uk or from your travel agent
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Pandaw River Cruising Pandaw Cruises started out as the Irrawaddy Flotilla Company, set up by Scots merchants in 1865, and flourished on the rivers of Burma in the 1920s. After a long period of neglect, the fleet was revived in 1995 by Scottish historian Paul Strachan. In 1998 an original Clyde-built steamer called The Pandaw was leased and restored, and thus Pandaw was born, with its unique concept and style of river cruising. Today, Pandaw operates 13 luxury ships that explore the great rivers of south-east Asia offering real adventure alongside an incredibly high level of personal service and care, with a crew to passenger ratio of 1:2. All ships were custom built, designed and finished by traditionally skilled craftsmen as replicas of colonial
river steamers. Luxury and comfort are present but discreet, but it is the colonial character and informal, friendly atmosphere that impresses, more like a party on a private yacht than a cruise ship. All main and upper deck cabins have 170 sq feet of cabin space with panoramic French windows leading to personal deck space. On the upper deck is a cocktail bar and sun deck, partly covered by an awning from where you can watch life on the river unfold. Currently only available on the Mekong ships, the Pandaw Spa offers head, foot and body massages in dedicated spa areas. Other facilities available on Pandaw vessels can include lecture rooms, art galleries, souvenir shops, saloon bars, fitness centres and libraries.
Mekong river, Laos
C&K Recommends... Pandaw Along the Mekong
This classic 7-night Mekong journey passes through the bustling Mekong delta in Vietnam to the tranquillity of Cambodia, sailing between the French colonial port of Hoi Chi Minh City (Saigon) and Siem Reap, the gateway to the temples of Angkor. Cruises can be undertaken in either direction, or shortened by disembarking in the Cambodian capital of Phnom Penh.
Mekong Unexplored
Pandaw offer the chance to get off the beaten track on its ‘Mekong Unexplored’ expedition. This 10-night itinerary, in addition to the regular cruise itinerary between Ho Chi Minh City and Siem Reap, also visits Kratié in eastern Cambodia. This small town has a central marketplace and French colonial buildings. It is also still possible to find endangered river dolphins here.
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Contact us on 020 7808 6786 or [email protected]
RV Mekong Pandaw
TOURS • VIETNAM & CAMBODIA
Classic Mekong: Pandaw Cruises Duration • 13 Days & 11 Nights
Category • Superior
Day 10: Wat Hanchey Morning visit to the hilltop temple of Wat Hanchey. Afternoon excursion to the twin holy mountains of Phnom Pros and Phnom Srey and the eco-tourism village of Choeungkok. (B, L, D)
Tour overview Cruise through the Mekong delta in Vietnam to the legendary temples of Angkor in Cambodia aboard a cruiser from the Pandaw fleet, replicas of colonial-era river steamers. In 2003 the Pandaw vessel, the RV Mekong Pandaw, was the first ship to attempt this extraordinary journey, surmounting complex bureaucratic and navigational obstacles. Pandaw now have five ships plying this amazing waterway and have gathered a wealth of experience to provide a memorable cruise.
C&K highlights • 7-night cruise through spectacular scenery • Explore the Mekong river and visit small villages, pagodas and shrines • Tour the Angkor Wat temples • Food, local drinks and crew tips all included • Discover Cambodian history in Phnom Penh
Weather Phnom Penh J F M A M J J A S O N D A 32 32 34 34 34 33 32 32 31 31 30 30 B 21 22 23 24 25 24 25 25 24 24 23 22 C 6
8 29 68 166 156 149 162 245 263 115 27
A: Maximum average temperature (C) B: Minimum average temperature (C) C: Average rainfall (mm)
Area Map
River cruise • From £3,375
Day 11: Siem Reap Early morning coach transfer to Siem Reap. Afternoon private excursion to visit Angkor Wat temple complex, then watch the sun set from Bakheng Hill. Stay 2 nights at the Victoria Angkor Resort & Spa. (B, L) Days 12: Angkor temples Full-day tour of the temples. This evening you will be a VIP guest of Pandaw cruises for a show at Phare Ponleu Selpak's circus. (B, L) Boat on the Mekong river
Day 1: Fly to Ho Chi Minh City (N) Days 2-3: Ho Chi Minh City Arrive and transfer to the InterContinental Asiana Saigon for a 2-night stay. The following day join a private excursion to visit the Cu Chi tunnels and explore the city. (B) Day 4: Mekong cruise Shared transfer to My Tho in the Mekong delta. Board a Pandaw vessel for the 7-night cruise on the Mekong river. (B, L, D) Day 5: Cai Be Morning boat trip around Cai Be floating market, followed by an excursion to the town of Sa Dec, travelling along canals and backwaters. (B, L, D) Day 6: Chau Doc Visit some villages of the Cham minority ethnic group who farm local catfish. Cross the border at Chau Doc into Cambodia. (B, L, D) Day 7: Phnom Penh Morning city tour in your own private ‘cyclo’ (cycle rickshaw). Optional afternoon excursion to the Tuol Sleng Museum of Genocide and the Killing Fields of Choeung Ek. (B, L, D) Day 8: Kampong Chhanang Leave the Mekong river for an excursion up the Tonlé river to Kampong Chhnang to see the vast wetlands around the mouth of the river, travelling either by ship or coach, depending on river levels. (B, L, D) Day 9: Kampong Cham Back on the Mekong, cruise north-west to province of Kampong Cham to visit the silkweaving village of Chong Koh, then on to Peam Chi Kang village to visit the local temple where splendid village racing boats are stored. (B, L, D)
Day 13: Fly home Morning visit to the smaller Angkor temples of Preah Khan, Neak Pean, Ta Som and East Mebon. Transfer to the airport and fly home. (B) Meal basis: As per itinerary – B: Breakfast, L: Lunch, D: Dinner, N: No meals.
Important information Locally escorted tour: This tour is led in each destination en route by a local tour guide. All excursions on the cruise will be led by the local cruise tour guide. Superior tour: This tour is based in 4-star hotel and cruise accommodation. Please visit this tour on our website to see details of the accommodation included. Non-exclusive cruise: When on board the cruise, the transfers and excursions relevant to that cruise are operated as a group with other passengers who may or may not be Cox & Kings clients. Tailor-made travel: For a price quote based on alternative accommodation standards, to discuss flight options or to tailor this itinerary, please call 020 7808 6786 or email [email protected].
Guideline prices for 2017 Low season from £3,375 Guide price months: Jul – Aug High season from £4,125 Guide price months: Oct – Nov The guideline high season prices may be significantly lower than the peak season prices (15 Dec – 03 Jan)
Find out more at coxandkings.co.uk or from your travel agent
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VIETNAM • ACCOMMODATION
Vietnam Hotel Collection This is a selection of our recommended hotels. Please see our website for more options.
Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi
The Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi, formerly the Sofitel Metropole, is a French colonial-style hotel situated in the heart of Hanoi. A historic city landmark, the hotel has hosted many illustrious guests including Charlie Chaplin, who spent his honeymoon here, and the writers Somerset Maugham and Graham Greene, who both wrote here during their stays.
Luxury
Rooms and suites are spread over two wings: the Metropole Wing, which offers the finest heritage accommodation of Hanoi’s French quarter, and the new Opera Wing, with a neo-classical style, Sofitel MyBeds and high-tech fittings. The Metropole hosts three of the city’s finest restaurants: Le Beaulieu serves French haute cuisine accompanied by a sommelier’s fine wine pairings, taste authentic Vietnamese in the Spices Garden, or modern Italian culinary art at Angelina. There is also La Terrasse du Metropole, which exudes a Parisian cafe atmosphere, and Le Club, where you can enjoy live music and cocktails.
Features:
364 rooms & suites, 3 restaurants, 3 bars, outdoor swimming pool, health club, spa, salon, gift shop.
Park Hyatt Saigon, Ho Chi Minh City Luxury
Park Hyatt Saigon enjoys a prime location on the city’s most famous square, overlooking Saigon Opera House, and within walking distance of the most popular cultural and historical attractions. This elegant, French colonial-style hotel has 245 guestrooms and suites, redefining urban luxury with its sophisticated design, handcrafted details and modern-day comforts.
World-class bars and restaurants include Opera, offering authentic Italian cuisine; Square One, serving both Vietnamese and Western dishes; Park Lounge, specialising in afternoon tea; and 2 Lam Son, one of the city’s top nightlife destinations. For the ultimate in relaxation and rejuvenation, tranquil Xuan Spa offers wellness treatments inspired by traditional Vietnamese beauty rituals and ingredients, as well as a wellequipped fitness centre and elegant outdoor pool. The dedicated team at Park Hyatt Saigon provide warm, discreet and dignified service to those seeking relaxed, personalised luxury.
Features:
245 rooms & suites, 2 restaurants, martini bar, spa, 20-metre outdoor pool, airport limousine service.
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Contact us on 020 7808 6786 or [email protected]
ACCOMMODATION • VIETNAM
This is a selection of our recommended hotels. Please see our website for more options.
Luxury
Superior
Superior
Hotel des Arts Saigon, Ho Chi Minh City
An Lam Saigon River, Ho Chi Minh City
Caravelle Hotel, Ho Chi Minh City
This small boutique hotel sits on the outskirts of Ho Chi Minh City, either a 45-minute drive or 15-minute boat trip from the city centre. Its name derives from the Vietnamese words for 'peaceful' (an) and 'nature' (lam), reflecting the tranquil river setting and personal service. Rooms are set across seven luxurious riverside villas with natural exotic wood floors and elegant furnishings.
Since 1959, the Caravelle Hotel has been Ho Chi Minh City’s landmark address, set in the heart of the business, shopping and nightlife districts. The hotel’s rooftop bar was the haunt of journalists and embassy staff in the 1960s. The original 10-storey building is now adjoined to a 24-storey tower, which forms the bulk of the new property. Located 8km from the airport, a fleet of Mercedes is available for private transfers.
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Conveniently located in the city centre, Hotel des Arts Saigon is a few minutes' walk away from the main tourist attractions, popular bars, local cafes, shopping centres and entertainment complexes. Part of the MGallery Collection, the hotel has a chic and stylish design with local Vietnamese touches, and an emphasis on excellent food in its two restaurants. 168 rooms & studio suites, 2 restaurants, rooftop bar, fitness centre, garden, terrace, spa.
Superior
16 rooms, riverfront restaurant, spa, outdoor swimming pool.
Superior
335 rooms, 8 wining & dining venues including a rooftop bar and 7th floor pool bar.
Superior
The Mövenpick Hotel, Hanoi
Hotel de l'Opera, Hanoi
Paradise Suites Hotel, Halong Bay
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Conveniently located in the heart of Hanoi’s business district, the Mövenpick Hotel Hanoi combines elegant French colonial architecture with superior facilities and a high standard of personalised service. Quan Su temple is just around the corner, and Hanoi’s famed opera house, old quarter shopping district and central train station are all located a 5-minute taxi ride away. Rooms and suites are well appointed in a contemporary style. 154 rooms & suites, restaurant, bar, sauna, fitness centre.
The Hotel de l'Opera, part of the MGallery collection, is located in the city centre, close to Hanoi's opera house, the old quarter and Hoan Kiem lake. All rooms and suites exhibit a dramatic, sophisticated design, with a spacious living area and bathroom and views over the city, opera house or courtyard. Facilities include Satine restaurant for evening fine dining, Mediterranean-inspired cuisine at Café Lautrec, or cocktails at La Fée Verte Bar. 105 rooms, restaurant, bar, pool, spa, sauna.
The Paradise Suites Hotel is located within Halong Bay itself on Tuan Chau island, just a short walk from the boarding area of many luxury Halong Bay cruise vessels. A stay here is therefore an ideal option for those preferring a relaxing start to their day before the cruise, instead of the drive from Hanoi, which is almost 4 hours away. All suites are spacious and comfortable, and decorated in a chic contemporary style. 108 suites, 2 restaurants, whisky bar, cocktail bar, spa.
Find out more at coxandkings.co.uk or from your travel agent
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VIETNAM • ACCOMMODATION
Vietnam River & Beach Resorts This is a selection of our recommended hotels. Please see our website for more options.
Luxury
Banyan Tree Lang Co, Hué
Set on the 3-km sandy beach of Lang Co area, between Danang and Hué, the Banyan Tree Lang Co is a contemporary tribute to Vietnam’s imperial history. The theme is continued in the interior, with Champa sandstone sculptures, Dong Son bronze drums and Vietnamese calligraphy furnishing the communal areas. Accommodation is in lagoon pool villas or beach pool villas with private pool and sun deck.
Features:
61 pool villas, 3 restaurants, bar, golf club, yoga pavilion, spa.
Superior
Superior
La Residence, Hué
A former governor’s residence, La Residence Hué is a colonial building that has been beautifully restored into a boutique hotel. A distinctive bowed facade and nautical flourishes are hallmarks of the 1930s ‘Streamline Moderne’ school of art deco architectural style. A member of the MGallery collection of hotels by Sofitel, it has a prime location on the banks of the Perfume river with views of the citadel.
Features:
122 rooms, restaurant, bar, swimming pool, spa, art gallery, fitness room, complimentary bicycles.
Superior
Superior
Avani Quy Nhon Resort & Spa, Quy Nhon
Avani Quy Nhon Resort & Spa is set on one of Vietnam’s most beautiful shorelines with a peaceful beach. Rooms and suites blend a fabulous combination of Vietnamese culture with ancient Champa architecture, and all feature a private balcony overlooking the sea. The hotel also offers lessons in yoga, tai chi, meditation and cooking.
Features:
63 rooms, restaurant, bar, spa, water sports centre, bike rental.
Superior
Almanity Hoi An Resort & Spa, Hoi An
Hotel Royal Hoi An
Anantara Hoi An Resort, Hoi An
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Situated just a stone’s throw away from the Unesco-listed Hoi An Ancient Town, Almanity Hoi An Resort and Spa is the perfect location to explore this picturesque area. There are 145 boutique rooms set around a courtyard with terraced pools and tropical gardens. Guests can enjoy a complimentary daily 90-minute Spa Journey at the My Chi Spa, which is the largest spa in Vietnam. 145 rooms, restaurant, bar, spa with 90-minute treatment included, relaxation pool.
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The Hotel Royal Hoi An, part of the MGallery collection by Sofitel, managed by Accor, is set on the banks of Thu Bon river, a short walk from the Japanese Covered Bridge. This superior property blends historical charm and modernity. Rooms are spread over eight floors, with views of the town or the river, each with elegant, modern decor. A shuttle bus to An Bang beach, just 7 minutes away, is complimentary. 119 rooms, 2 restaurants, bar, swimming pool, spa, sauna.
Contact us on 020 7808 6786 or [email protected]
The Anantara Hoi An Resort is a boutique hotel set on the banks of the Thu Bon river, a charming boutique retreat just a short walk from the fascinating old town of Hoi An. The resort is built in a charming colonial style with spacious landscaped gardens. The hotel offers a ferry service to the delightful Cua Dai beach, and Vietnamese cooking, language, painting and lantern making classes. 93 rooms, restaurant, 2 bars, cafe, outdoor swimming pool, spa.
ACCOMMODATION • VIETNAM
This is a selection of our recommended hotels. Please see our website for more options.
Luxury
Luxury
Luxury
Princess d’Annam Resort & Spa, Ke Ga Bay
Fusion Maia Resort, Danang
Six Senses Con Dao, Con Dao Islands
Mixing modern design with a post-colonial ambience, this chic resort is set on the secluded Ke Ga Bay facing a century-old French lighthouse, a 3-hour drive from Ho Chi Minh City. The resort is known for its 1,800-sq-metre spa building offering made-to-order royal spa treatments, as well as its Ginger Garden with a collection of rare plants. Fine regional dishes are served at The Terrace, which has a panoramic sea view.
Located on My Khe beach, Fusion Maia Resort is Asia’s first spa resort to include treatments at the superb Maia Spa in your stay. Guests can relax and enjoy the beach and spa while the historic town of Hoi An is just a short, complimentary shuttle bus ride away. The resort’s luxurious suites and villas feature a private pool and courtyard garden, and the restaurant serves a fusion of international and local cuisine.
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48 villas, 2 restaurants, 4 swimming pools, spa, botanical garden tours.
Superior
87 villas, 3 restaurants, bar, spa treatments included, shuttle bus to Hoi An.
Superior
The luxurious Six Senses Con Dao is located on Con Son island in the Con Dao archipelago in south-east Vietnam. Set on a white sand beach and surrounded by lush mountain landscapes, the resort is an ideal place for relaxation. Elegantly designed modern villas feature private pools, while the luxurious Six Senses Spa provides a truly relaxing and revitalising experience. From May to October, turtles nest on beaches around the islands. 51 rooms, 2 restaurants, spa, bar, yoga pavilion.
Superior
Mia Resort, Nha Trang
Evason Ana Mandara, Nha Trang
La Veranda Resort, Phu Quoc
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Set in a quiet bay and just 20 minutes’ drive from Nha Trang, the Mia Resort is built in the foothills of the Nha Trang mountains on a slope down to a private beach. Accommodation is available in villas, condos and suites, all with sea views and private verandas and some with a plunge pool. Cooking classes, yoga instruction, snorkelling and sightseeing tours are all bookable locally and there is a complimentary shuttle bus to Nha Trang town. 70 rooms, Italian restaurant, spa, outdoor pool, private beach, range of activities.
An intimate resort located directly on Nha Trang’s golden beach, the Evason Ana Mandara is approximately 1km from the town centre. Rooms are furnished with native wood and traditional rattan with either garden or sea views. All rooms have their own veranda while some provide direct access onto the beach. The Six Senses Spa offers Vietnamese speciality treatments in addition to the Six Senses Spa signature menu. 74 rooms, 3 restaurants, bar, spa, water sports centre, tennis court.
Until recently, Vietnam’s undeveloped island of Phu Quoc only attracted the more adventurous traveller, lured by its pristine beaches and wonderfully relaxed atmosphere. La Veranda Resort, a member of the MGallery by Sofitel, is now one of the island’s finest resorts. Elegantly designed in the style of a 19th-century colonial mansion, its rooms are set on an idyllic expanse of sandy beach facing out towards the Gulf of Thailand. 70 rooms, 2 restaurants, swimming pool, spa, private beach.
Find out more at coxandkings.co.uk or from your travel agent
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CAMBODIA • ACCOMMODATION
Cambodia Hotel Collection This is a selection of our recommended hotels. Please see our website for more options.
Luxury
The Park Hyatt, Siem Reap
The award-winning Park Hyatt Siem Reap is located in the heart of downtown Siem Reap and just minutes from the 12th-century ruins of Angkor. The hotel combines refined, contemporary interiors with a graceful garden setting, including a beautiful secluded courtyard and two swimming pools. Suites feature private gardens and / or plunge pools, separate living areas, modern amenities and spacious white marble bathrooms.
Features:
104 rooms & suites, restaurant, cafe, lounge, culinary tours, 2 swimming pools, spa.
Superior
Luxury
Superior
Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor, Siem Reap
Navutu Dreams Hotel, Siem Reap
The Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor was the place to stay for early 20th-century European visitors. Synonymous with Angkor for 75 years, the hotel continues to create a timeless colonial atmosphere. The carefully restored building features rich dark woods and antique furnishings while the Apsara Terrace is an excellent place to watch traditional dance performances.
Navutu Dreams Resort & Spa is set in more than a hectare of tropical gardens less than 20 minutes’ drive from Siem Reap and the Angkor Wat Archaeological Park. Rooms combine modern amenities with traditional features, such as wooden, sandstone and pebble wash floors and hand-carved art made by tribes from the Cambodia-Laos border. Relax with a variety of yoga and meditation classes or in the tropical spa.
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119 rooms, restaurant, bar, wine cellar, cafe, pool, gardens.
Luxury
28 rooms, restaurant, bar, spa, 3 swimming pools, yoga studio.
Superior
Anantara Angkor Resort & Spa, Siem Reap
Raffles Hotel Le Royal, Phnom Penh
Knai Bang Chatt, Kep
The Anantara Angkor Resort & Spa is a boutique retreat in Siem Reap, designed to resemble a grand Khmer villa with a beautiful courtyard and pool. The resort is a 15-minute drive from the Angkor temples, and 10 minutes from the town centre. Rooms blend a refined contemporary style with Cambodian heritage, featuring hardwood floors a private balcony and high ceilings.
Raffles Hotel Le Royal is located in one of the grandest colonial buildings in the city centre. Dating from 1929, it was renovated by the Raffles group in 1997 and has lost none of its old-world charm. Sip a Million Dollar Cocktail in the Elephant Bar, relax in the spa or eat delicately flavoured Khmer cuisine in Restaurant Le Royal. Rooms are furnished in art deco style with dark woods and Cambodian antiques.
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39 rooms, 2 restaurants, outdoor swimming pool, rooftop garden, spa, cooking classes.
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175 rooms, restaurant, bar, spa, swimming pool.
Contact us on 020 7808 6786 or [email protected]
Located by the sea in Kep and a 2-hour drive from Phnom Penh, Knai Bang Chatt is an intimate boutique hotel built by protégés of the well-known designer Vann Molyvann, a pupil of Le Corbusier who pioneered New Khmer architectural design. The buildings date from the 1970s and feature 11 rooms, all decorated and furnished to a different design and some with balconies or terraces with sea views. 11 rooms, saltwater infinity pool, spa, restaurant, library, water sports centre, bike hire.
ACCOMMODATION • CAMBODIA
This is a selection of our recommended hotels. Please see our website for more options.
Belmond La Résidence d’Angkor, Siem Reap
Located by the river in the centre of Siem Reap, surrounded by majestic old trees, Belmond La Residence d’Angkor reflects traditional Khmer style and is a charming place to relax and escape the heat.
Luxury
Deluxe rooms feature dark woods, soft cottons and silks, and are located next to the pool or gardens. A private terrace offers the perfect place for a relaxing cocktail at the end of the day. The larger Residence suites are similarly decorated and situated in the quietest part of the hotel. Each has a large bedroom, adjacent lounge and a spacious bathroom with oversized freestanding bathtub, a separate walk-in rain shower, double vanity, dressing and storage areas. The Kong Kea spa is influenced by ancient Cambodian healing arts to provide a range of treatments and encompasses a sauna, rain showers and a jacuzzi. Private yoga and meditation sessions are also available. The hotel’s peaceful gardens, swimming pool, and luxury spa make it the perfect place to relax at the end of a busy day’s sightseeing.
Features:
59 rooms & suites, 2 restaurants, lounge bar, gardens, swimming pool, spa, 2 shops, gym.
Song Saa Private Island Luxury
An all-inclusive hideaway resort, Song Saa Private Island consists of two private islands – Koh Ouen and Koh Bong – located on the untouched Koh Rong archipelago. The islands are connected by a footbridge to safeguard their marine life. Most of the surrounding islands remain undeveloped, consisting of virgin rainforest, tropical reefs and glistening beaches. The resort is reached via a 35-minute complimentary speedboat ride from Sihanoukville or private helicopter transfer from Phnom Penh or Siem Reap. Enjoy sunrise or sunset views from over-water, ocean-view and jungle villas, complete with private pools and constructed using recycled materials. Villas have also been tastefully furnished with all the luxuries and amenities you would expect in a world-class resort, including huge four-poster beds, oversized bathtubs and indoor and outdoor showers. All meals, dining experiences, house beverages, minibar, laundry, internet and non-motorised water sports such as kayaking, snorkelling and boating are included in your stay.
Features:
27 villas, restaurant, large infinity pool, spa & wellness sanctuaries positioned in the rainforest and along the shore, yoga & meditation centre. Find out more at coxandkings.co.uk or from your travel agent
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LAOS • ACCOMMODATION
Laos Hotel Collection This is a selection of our recommended hotels. Please see our website for more options.
Luxury
Luxury
Luxury
Belmond La Résidence Phou Vao, Luang Prabang
3 Nagas Luang Prabang MGallery by Sofitel, Luang Prabang
Sofitel Luang Prabang
Set in Unesco-restored homes in the heart of Luang Prabang, 3 Nagas is a boutique hotel managed by Sofitel. Rooms are situated in three stunning historic houses and feature high ceilings, exotic dark wooden floors, four-poster beds, silk fabrics and traditional weavings. Enjoy a variety of Laos cuisine on the restaurant terrace under the mango trees.
Formerly a mansion built in the 1900s for the French governor’s family, the Sofitel Luang Prabang offers a delightful blend of old-world, colonial charm and luxurious facilities. Set around a courtyard, the 23 suites have high ceilings and private walled gardens, with private plunge pools or oversized hot tubs. The large hotel garden is filled with a variety of local plants and herbs.
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A luxurious boutique hotel, Belmond La Résidence Phou Vao is located on a hill on the outskirts of town with superb views of the mountains and within the heritage zone. The property is set within 3 hectares of lush gardens, rich with bougainvillea, palms and frangipani. The hotel’s Phou Savanh restaurant is renowned as one of the best in Luang Prabang. 34 suites, restaurant, spa, infinity pool, bar, complimentary shuttle bus to town centre.
Luxury
15 rooms, restaurant, courtyard garden, shop, library, vintage car transfers.
Superior
23 suites, restaurant, spa, outdoor swimming pool, cooking school.
Good Standard
The Luang Say Residence, Luang Prabang
Settha Palace Hotel, Vientiane
The River Resort, Muang Champasak
Set in a French colonial-style villa located within easy reach of the ancient temple district, The Luang Say Residence is a boutique property and a member of the Small Luxury Hotels of the World. Rooms are housed in five pavilions, each bearing the name of a French explorer from the end of the 19th century, with a large terrace, exterior lounge and a private garden.
The Settha Palace Hotel is a historical landmark in the heart of Vientiane. Built circa 1932, it was restored to its former glory in 1999 to embrace Laos’ French colonial era. French architecture, colonial decor, period furniture and large landscaped gardens are complemented by modern hotel facilities. Rooms all feature pool or garden views. Enjoy classic fine dining or relaxed poolside meals.
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20 suites, restaurant, bar, outdoor swimming pool, library, tropical garden.
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29 rooms, restaurant, swimming pool, massage rooms, gym.
Contact us on 020 7808 6786 or [email protected]
Overlooking the wide waters of the Mekong river, The River Resort has a peaceful location and is just 20 minutes’ drive from the Vat Phou temples. This eco-friendly lodging offers rooms in detached villas with either river or paddy views from large, private terraces. The resort’s boat offers daytime and sunset cruises, including a stop for drinks and canapés on the sandy beach of a nearby river island. 20 rooms spread over 10 villas, restaurant, infinity pool.
ACCOMMODATION • LAOS
Luxury
The President by AKARYN, Vientiane The President by AKARYN is Vientiane’s most luxurious property, blending original Laotian designs with well-preserved colonial-era architecture. The hotel has a commanding position on the city's first thoroughfare, Setthathirath Road, adjoining the Parliament House. Opposite the hotel, the vast Chao Anouvong Park meanders along the banks of the Mekong river while next door is the temple of the Emerald Buddha, home to one of the finest collections of Laotian religious art.
Accommodation at the President is available in 30 spacious rooms, including two grand presidential suites with private butler service, all furnished to the highest standard with fine furnishings and modern technological features. Ayurah Wellness is an elegant space of pure indulgence, focusing on the ‘Four Pillars of Ayurah Wellness’: mind balance, anti-aging, weight optimisation and detoxification. The centre encompasses a spa and salon using Linda Meredith products and separate areas for body treatments, foot massages and traditional massages. For guests wishing to explore outside the city, the hotel’s fleet of Rolls-Royce vehicles can be reserved for day trips and excursions.
Features:
30 rooms, restaurant, bar, cigar lounge & humidor, whisky cellar, spa. Find out more at coxandkings.co.uk or from your travel agent
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Thailand Tailor-made travel • Rail journeys This radiant country is home to buzzing cities, Burma mountain scenery, jungles and wildlife, a spectacular coastline fringed with idyllic islands, hill tribe villages, a deeply spiritual culture and some of the best cuisine in the world. The country has been welcoming travellers for years, which means accommodation and facilities are of the highest standard, though there are still plenty of little-explored corners.
Vietnam Laos
Thailand
Cambodia
Discover the beauty of Chiang Rai, or the ‘City of Golden Temples’, sample delicious street food in the markets of Bangkok, tour the Unesco-listed ruins of Ayutthaya, or make a poignant visit to the Allied war cemeteries on the River Kwai. If it’s nature you’re after then there are numerous national parks offering everything from monsoon rainforest to plains and grasslands. Alternatively, hop on a leisurely cruise between the islands and dazzling beaches off the south coast.
Discover Thailand 124 Bangkok 125 Chiang Mai & Chiang Rai 126
Private tour Eastern & Oriental Express • Rail journey
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Places to stay – our suggestions Bangkok Hotel Collection Beach & Jungle Resorts
Climate
Thailand has a tropical monsoon climate, divided into a wet and dry season. For the central and northern areas, including Bangkok and Chiang Mai, the best times to visit are between November and March, since it is very hot in April and rainy between May and October. The south-west bordering the Andaman Sea, including Phuket and Krabi, is driest between November and March, while the south-eastern coast bordering the Gulf of Thailand is best between May and October.
Image left: Buddha statue, Sukothai Historical Park
Bangkok
Chiang Mai
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B 21 23 25 26 26 26 25 25 25 24 23 21
B 13 14 17 21 23 23 23 22 22 21 18 14
C 8 21 31 68 182 159 167 207 292 199 49 11
C 9
6 15 57 165 137 165 226 224 125 41 12
Key: A: Maximum average temperature (C) B: Minimum average temperature (C) C: Average rainfall (mm)
Inspired to venture further afield? Browse our website to discover additional destinations, places to stay and itineraries; or speak to our Thailand experts. t
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THAILAND
Discover Thailand
Wat Phra Kaew, Bangkok
Bangkok
C&K Recommends...
Grand monuments & bustling local life • Exciting variety of cuisine
Visit the ruins of Ayutthaya
Bangkok is an exciting mix of beautiful ancient Buddhist temples, golden royal palaces, riverside houses on stilts, traditional markets and a modern city of skyscrapers and air-conditioned shopping malls. Cultural sights of particular interest include the Grand Palace complex, encompassing Wat Phra Kaew and the Emerald Buddha; the National Museum; and the Dusit Palace complex, which houses the Vimanmek Mansion and the Ananta Samakhom Throne Hall. Bangkok is well known for its cuisine, available in a variety of places including the night markets of China Town, street food on Kraisi Street in the Banglamphu district, sedate dinner cruises on converted rice barges, fine dining at the iconic Blue Elephant restaurant, or a classic Thai dinner at Sala Rim Naam in the Mandarin Oriental Hotel.
Ayutthaya lies approximately 90km north of Bangkok and was once the powerful ancient capital of Siam. Much of the fabulously ornate city has been lost but what remains provides a glimpse of life during the four centuries that the kings of Ayutthaya ruled. A popular way to visit is to drive there from Bangkok and then cruise back to the city on the Chao Phraya river. Mekhala offer overnight cruises on its fleet of three beautifully restored rice barges with air-conditioned cabins and en suite western-style bathrooms.
Day trips to nearby markets
A number of markets make for interesting excursions from Bangkok. Mahachai fish market is one of the largest fresh seafood markets in Thailand while Maeklong market is famous for its location on the railway tracks, where market traders prove remarkably adept at removing their stalls when a train approaches. Floating markets make for a fun day out: Damnoen Saduak, an hour outside of Bangkok, is the most popular floating market to visit but for a more authentic insight into local life visit Amphawa floating market, which is smaller and almost exclusively visited by Thai locals.
The Bridge on the River Kwai
A poignant visit can be made from Bangkok to the River Kwai, which lies in Kanchanaburi province to the west of Bangkok. Visit the bridge, the well-kept Allied war cemeteries and the JEATH Museum, which documents the building of the Burma railway under harrowing conditions by Allied POWs during the second world war. It is also possible to take a train ride along the railway itself up to the end of the line at Nam Tok, very close to the Burmese border. The train slows down at the most spectacular points for some superb views of the jungle scenery. Row of Buddha statues at Wat Yai Chaimongkol, Ayutthaya
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THAILAND
Chiang Mai
Chiang Rai
Busy night markets • Base for visiting nearby hill tribes
The Golden Triangle • Long-tail Mekong boat cruises
Chiang Mai is Thailand’s second city, sometimes known as the ‘City of Golden Temples’ due to its 300 temples. Its name literally means ‘New City’, although it dates from the 13th century and is bounded by city walls and five gates that also date from this era. The renowned night market here runs for 1km along the Chang Khlan road offering branded goods, handicrafts, souvenirs and food. The town is also a base for exploring the surrounding jungles and visiting hill tribe villages.
Chiang Rai is a laid-back town in northern Thailand, set on a plain surrounded by green hills with the Mae Kok river flowing along its northern perimeter. Like Chiang Mai, it has a busy night market. Many visitors use the town as a base to explore the nearby ‘Golden Triangle’ border area between Thailand, Laos and Burma (Myanmar). Hop aboard a long-tail boat on the Mekong river to enjoy the scenery, with visits to nearby ruins and temples.
Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep temple, Chiang Mai
A suggested itinerary...
Thailand to Laos: Jungle & Mekong Explorer 15 Days & 12 Nights from £3,195
Journey through the jungles of northern Thailand, then cruise south through Laos with time in Luang Prabang. Day 1: Fly to Chiang Mai via Bangkok Overnight flight to Chiang Mai via Bangkok. (N) Days 2-3: Chiang Mai Arrive and transfer to the Tamarind Village for a 2-night stay. Optional tours available to visit an elephant camp and explore the famous night markets. (N) Day 4: Chiang Rai Drive to Chiang Rai. Stay at Le Meridien Chiang Rai Resort for 2 nights (upgrades available to the Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp & Resort). (B) Day 5: Chiang Rai Visit the Golden Triangle where Laos, Thailand and Burma meet and discover the ancient Lanna
White Temple, Chiang Rai
kingdom of Chiang Saen. (B) Day 6: Mekong cruise to Pak Beng Cross the border into Laos and board a Luang Say Mekong cruise vessel for the journey downriver to Pak Beng. Stay overnight in the simple Luang Say Lodge. (B, L, D) Day 7: Luang Prabang Visit the local morning market, then sail downstream to the Pak Ou caves. Continue to Luang Prabang, and stay at The Luang Say Residence for 3 nights. (B, L) Days 8-9: Luang Prabang Tour the ancient temple district, visiting Buddhist temples and the National Museum, housed in a former royal palace. (B) Day 10: Fly to Pakse Fly to Pakse. Transfer to Residence Sisouk for 1 night. (B) Days 11-12: Mekong cruise Morning excursion to the Vat Phou temple, then transfer to the Vat Phou vessel for a 2-night cruise. Cruise along the river stopping at villages and temples. (B, L, D) Day 13: Si Phan Don Explore Si Phan Don (the 4,000 Islands region)
including a visit to the mighty Khone Phapheng Falls. Coach transfer back to Pakse and stay at the Residence Sisouk for 1 night. (B) Day 14: Fly home via Vientiane and Bangkok Fly to Vientiane and connect with a flight to Bangkok. Overnight flight home. (B) Day 15: Arrive home (N) Please note: This tour is classified as a Discovery tour due to more basic accommodation standards in some areas. Guideline Prices Low season from: £3,195 (Apr – May) High season from: £3,695 (Nov – Dec)
Tailored travel
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THAILAND • TOURS
Eastern & Oriental Express Duration • 10 Days & 7 Nights
Category • Luxury
Rail journey • From £3,795
Tour overview Travel in style through the jungles, rice fields and cities of south-east Asia, from Bangkok to Singapore, or vice versa, aboard the luxury Eastern & Oriental Express. The train offers refined elegance with fine dining, a piano bar and observation car. En route, the train will stop for guided tours at the notorious Bridge over the River Kwai and the Malaysian town of Kuala Kangsar.
C&K highlights • Journey in style through the Thai and Malaysian countryside • Luxurious hotels in Bangkok and Singapore • River Kwai cruise accompanied by a local historian • Discover Malaysia’s Islamic heritage in Kuala Kangsar • Enjoy onboard fine dining and cocktails
Weather Bangkok J F M A M J J A S O N D A 32 33 34 35 34 33 33 32 32 32 32 31 B 21 23 25 26 26 26 25 25 25 24 23 21 C 8 21 31 68 182 159 167 207 292 199 49 11
A: Maximum average temperature (C) B: Minimum average temperature (C) C: Average rainfall (mm)
Area Map
Eastern & Oriental Express
Day 1: Fly to Bangkok (N) Days 2-3: Bangkok Arrive in Bangkok and transfer to the Mandarin Oriental Bangkok for a 2-night stay. Day 3 is at leisure (see page 124 for optional excursions). (N) Day 4: Board the Eastern & Oriental Express Day at leisure. Early evening transfer to the train station and board the sumptuous Eastern & Oriental Express for the 3-night Classic Journey to Singapore. Gourmet dinner on board. (B, D) Day 5: River Kwai Morning cruise on the Kwai river accompanied by a local historian, followed by a visit to an evocative war museum and the war cemetery. Return to the train for lunch and an afternoon at leisure. Dinner is served while travelling through the southern Thai countryside. (B, L, D) Day 6: Kuala Kangsar Morning travelling through northern Malaysia followed by a tour of Kuala Kangsar. Disembark for a tour of the grand Ubudiah mosque, the
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Royal Museum of Perak and the Sultan Shah Gallery. The rest of the day is spent travelling down the Malay peninsula. Relax in the observation car and enjoy dinner and cocktails. (B, L, D) Day 7: Singapore After breakfast on board, travel across the Straits of Johor into Singapore. Stay at the Fullerton Hotel for 2 nights (upgrades available to the Raffles Hotel). (B) Day 8: Singapore Day at leisure in Singapore, an easy city to navigate with much to explore including Chinatown, Little India and the redeveloped quay areas. (B) Days 9-10: Fly home Transfer to the airport and fly home, arriving the next day. (B) Meal basis: As per itinerary – B: Breakfast, L: Lunch, D: Dinner, N: No meals.
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River Kwai, Kanchanaburi
Important information Locally escorted tour: This tour is escorted from the train only. Optional privately escorted tours can be booked for Bangkok and Singapore. Luxury tour: Featuring some of the most luxurious accommodation in each destination throughout the tour. Prices are based on the standard room / cabin category. Non-exclusive activities: When on board the train, the transfers and excursions are operated as a group with other passengers who may or may not be Cox & Kings clients. Alternative journeys: 'The Classic Journey' itinerary, as detailed above, also runs in reverse from Singapore to Bangkok as a 2-night trip. Eastern & Oriental Express also operates a longer 6-night 'Fables of the Peninsula' adventure, limited to just 60 guests in State and Presidential cabins. The journey begins at the legendary Raffles Hotel in Singapore, before visiting Kuala Lumpur, the Cameron Highlands and the small, rural community of Huay Yang. 'The Classic Journey' departs year-round while the 'Fables of the Peninsula' departs in October only.
Eastern & Oriental Express The train accommodates 82 passengers in 41 air-conditioned compartments, all furnished in dark woods, beautiful fabrics and with fine linens. The bar car offers a variety of evening entertainment including live piano performances. There is also a reading room with a varied library. The most popular place on board is the open-deck observation car, which provides an unbeatable opportunity to enjoy the stunning scenery.
Private & tailor-made travel: This itinerary is subject to the departure dates of the Eastern & Oriental Express, along with arrangements in Bangkok and Singapore for which guideline prices are shown. For a price quote based on alternative accommodation standards, to discuss flight options or to tailor this itinerary, please call 020 7808 6786 or email [email protected].
Cabin
Guideline prices for 2017 Low season from £3,795 Guide price months: Apr – Sep High season from £4,295 Guide price months: Jan – Mar The guideline high season prices may be significantly lower than the peak season prices (15 Dec – 03 Jan)
Find out more at coxandkings.co.uk or from your travel agent
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THAILAND • ACCOMMODATION
Bangkok Hotel Collection This is a selection of our recommended hotels. Please see our website for more options.
Exceptional
Luxury
The Mandarin Oriental Bangkok
The Peninsula, Bangkok
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Consistently rated as one of the best hotels in the world, the Mandarin Oriental Bangkok has a glamorous 135-year history and was previously the haunt of the likes of Noel Coward and Somerset Maugham. The hotel is set in landscaped gardens on the banks of the river and offers sumptuous rooms and suites, most with a river view, and a wide variety of bars and restaurants. A smart dress code is in place during the evenings. 374 rooms, 9 restaurants & bars, butler service, spa, 2 swimming pools, gym, 2 tennis courts, squash court.
Luxury
The Siam, Bangkok
The Siam is situated along the Chao Phraya river – also known as the River of Kings – in the city's royal Dusit district. Set on a hectare of premium river frontage, the hotel features 28 suites, 10 pool villas and a traditional Thai house. Rooms have been designed and decorated by the architect Bill Bensley, fusing oriental and colonial designs. Dine on Thai cuisine in the Thai House and Cooking School. At the Odium Spa choose from massage therapies and tailored multi-day spa packages. For a unique perspective of the city, board the hotel’s ‘Bangkok by Boat’ private barge tour.
Features:
39 suites & villas, riverside infinity pool, 2 restaurants, 2 bars, library, coffee & tea houses, art gallery, spa.
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With its riverside location along the banks of the Chao Phraya river, the 39-storey Peninsula hotel offers excellent views across the river and city beyond. All rooms are richly furnished and feature high-tech amenities, as well as enjoying spectacular views of Bangkok. Dine in luxury in the unique riverside garden setting. From the Peninsula Pier lounge take one of the hotel’s four beautifully restored rice barges that ferry guests across the river to the Skytrain Station. 370 rooms, 5 restaurants, three-tiered pool, spa, gym, tennis court, complimentary river boat service.
ACCOMMODATION • THAILAND
Beach & Jungle Resorts This is a selection of our recommended hotels. Please see our website for more options.
Luxury
Luxury
Superior
The Layana Resort & Spa, Koh Lanta
Pimalai, Koh Lanta
The Vijitt Resort Phuket
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Luxury
Luxury
Luxury
With a beautiful location on the west coast of Koh Lanta, the adults-only Layana Resort & Spa is an award-winning resort overlooking the Andaman Sea. The hotel is set on a 3-km stretch of beach against a backdrop of forested hills and surrounded by tropical gardens. Accommodation is designed in contemporary Thai style with luxurious decor and furnishings, making extensive use of hardwoods, silks and other indigenous materials. 57 rooms, restaurant, bar, award-winning spa, infinity pool, sauna, water sports activities.
Akyra Manor, Chiang Mai
The Akyra Manor Chiang Mai is a modern and stylish property in the heart of busy Nimmanhaemin Soi 9, known locally as 'Coffee Street', close to chic boutiques, galleries, bars and coffee shops. All the hotel's suites are light and spacious, with a unique 'outside-living-in' concept that includes interesting features such as a bathtub on the balcony in the Manor suites.
Features:
30 suites, restaurant, rooftop bar, infinity pool, fitness centre.
The name ‘Pimalai’ is derived from ancient Sanskrit, meaning ‘a little patch of Heaven’ – an ideal name for this elegant beach retreat. Situated in quiet Koh Lanta away from the hustle and bustle of crowded resorts, Pimalai is reached via an hour-long journey on the resort’s speedboat from Krabi. Set within 40 hectares of tropical vegetation, Pimalai has direct access to a pristine sandy beach, backed by jungle filled with buzzing cicadas, birds and monkeys. 121 rooms, 4 restaurants, private beach, infinity pool, spa, water sports centre.
The Vijitt Resort Phuket is set in peaceful landscaped grounds, with palms and expansive lawns sloping towards Friendship Beach and views over Chalong Bay. Accommodation is in elegant stand-alone villas. Some have their own pool, while all have floor-to-ceiling windows, bathroom with bathtub and outdoor rain showers. The resort offers complimentary activities including botanical and marine walks, Thai yoga and rubber tree tapping. 92 villas, 2 restaurants, beach bar, spa, shuttle bus to Phuket.
Anantara Chiang Mai Resort, Chiang Mai
Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp & Resort, Chiang Rai
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Set along the banks of the Mae Ping river, the Anantara Chiang Mai Resort occupies a peaceful location yet is only a 5-minute walk to the central night market. The hotel cooking school offers classes in the dining pavilion, which can also be used for candlelit dinners in the evening. Take advantage of the riverside location with a sunset cruise and champagne dinner. 84 rooms & suites, restaurant, library, riverside pool, spa, sunset cruises.
Set in the heart of the Mekong region, the award-winning Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp & Resort commands an incredible view of Thailand, Laos and Burma. Accommodation is set within 80 hectares of manicured gardens in low-rise buildings. The onsite elephant camp offers guests elephant trekking and riding experiences.
77 rooms & suites, 2 restaurants (and private dining options), cooking school, bar & terrace, onsite elephant camp, infinity pool, spa.
Find out more at coxandkings.co.uk or from your travel agent
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THAILAND • ACCOMMODATION
Beach & Jungle Resorts This is a selection of our recommended hotels. Please see our website for more options.
Luxury
Aleenta Phuket Resort & Spa, Phuket
Aleenta Phuket Resort & Spa is situated in Phang Nga province on the pristine Natai Beach, with sunset views of the Andaman Sea. Phuket International airport, the Blue Canyon Golf Course and the picturesque Phang Nga Bay are all less than 20 minutes’ drive away. Resort accommodation ranges in size from 80 sq metres for the Ocean View Lofts and Pool Suites, to 600 sq metres for 2- and 3-bedroom Beachfront Villas. All are furnished in a contemporary style and provide a range of modern amenities. Special features differ but can include private infinity pools, private chef and butler service and direct beach access. The Ayurah spa and wellness centre offers a range of therapies, massages and treatments, complemented by the Linda Meredith range of skincare products. Bikes are available for hire, and classes in Thai cooking, Thai boxing, tai chi, yoga and meditation can all be arranged locally. The resort has two restaurants serving fine Thai cuisine or, for a more personal experience, private dining experiences can be arranged such as barbecues or candlelit dinners on the beach.
Features:
67 suites & villas, 2 restaurants, spa & wellness centre, gym, beach lounge offering drinks & snacks, infinity pool with swim-up bar, Wi-Fi.
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ACCOMMODATION • THAILAND
This is a selection of our recommended hotels. Please see our website for more options.
Luxury
Kanda Residences, Koh Samui
The Kanda Residences Samui provides a luxury retreat for guests on the island paradise of Koh Samui, set on a gently sloping hillside near Bophut in the north-east of the island. The airport and the bustling resort beaches of Chaweng are just a 10-minute drive away. Accommodation is available in luxury 1-, 2-, 3- and 4-bed villas, all with private pools, separate living and dining space and kitchen facilities. Relax on the hotel’s quiet, secluded beach. The Rockpool restaurant is situated just a few feet from the sea, with superb sea views. Private in-villa dining, barbecues and cooking classes are also available on request.
Features:
36 pool villas, restaurant, children’s club, spa, gym, complimentary non-motorised water sports, Wi-Fi.
Luxury
Luxury
Aleenta Hua Hin Resort & Spa, Hua Hin
Amatara Resort & Wellness, Phuket
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Aleenta Hua Hin Resort & Spa is a luxury boutique property located on the golden beach of Paknampran Bay, a 2.5-hour drive from Bangkok. The main resort building is on the beachfront, set amid swaying palm trees and characterised by whitewashed walls and thatched roofs. Accommodation is divided among the beachfront Frangipani Wing, the Resort Wing near the seashore and the adults-only Aleenta Wing. The garden provides 80% of produce for the resort’s restaurant. Nearby, the Chaba Villa is an intimate hideaway with ocean views, two bedrooms and a large living room opening onto green manicured lawns. 23 suites, restaurant, bar, bakery, spa with hydrotherapy bath, swimming pool.
Set on Cape Panwa in a quiet corner of Phuket island, the Amatara Resort & Wellness overlooks a secluded bay and white, sandy beaches. Phuket airport is a 45-minute drive away while Phuket town can be reached in less than 15 minutes. Accommodation is available in a range of pavilions, suites and villas, all with private balconies and sea views. The Amatara Spa offers a range of wellness programmes and a Thai hammam experience, which combines traditional Turkish and Moroccan bathing practices with Thai spa therapies. Thai cooking classes are available at the hotel's main restaurant, led by an expert chef. 22 pavilions, 48 suites & 35 pool villas, 3 restaurants, grill lounge, pool bar, spa, tennis court, outdoor swimming pool. Find out more at coxandkings.co.uk or from your travel agent
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Malaysia & Singapore Tailor-made travel
Philippines
Malaysia could be described as two Malaysia countries in one: vibrant peninsular Indonesia Malaysia and lush, exotic Borneo. The Singapore peninsula offers a varied mix of cultures and cuisines, from Malay to Chinese and Indian, as Papua New Guinea well as a cosmopolitan capital, colonial cities such as Penang and Malacca, white sandy beaches and the oldest rainforest in the world. Meanwhile, Borneo is renowned for its steamy rainforests and marine national parks, smouldering volcanoes, remote tribes and diverse wildlife ranging from orang utans to proboscis monkeys and turtles. The city-state of Singapore sits just above the equator. Well known for its efficiency and high standards of service, it is an ideal place to relax for a few days, with some of the best restaurants in Asia as well as beautiful parks and many colonial buildings. The city is very compact and has an excellent transport system, making it easy to explore the different districts such as Chinatown, Little India and the redeveloped quay areas.
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Discover Malaysia & Singapore Singapore & Peninsular Malaysia Malaysian Borneo
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Private tour Splendours of Borneo • Private
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Places to stay – our suggestions Hotel Collection
Climate
Image left: Buddhist temple situated in Air Itam, Penang
Malaysia is generally hot and humid year round, with differing rainfall patterns. The east coast of peninsular Malaysia experiences rainfall between November and January, while the west coast experiences more rainfall from August to October. Borneo has a tropical climate. Heavy rains between November and February make travel more difficult. The weather is most pleasant between May and October, especially during the fruiting season when there is more wildlife activity.
Kuala Lumpur
Singapore
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A 31 32 33 33 32 32 32 32 32 32 31 31
A 29 30 31 31 31 31 31 30 30 31 30 29
B 22 22 22 23 23 23 22 22 22 23 22 22
B 22 23 23 23 24 24 23 23 23 23 23 22
C 147 137 218 264 209 130 141 154 190 268 278 232
C 200 177 198 200 176 157 156 166 172 198 246 272
Key: A: Maximum average temperature (C) B: Minimum average temperature (C) C: Average rainfall (mm)
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MALAYSIA & SINGAPORE
Discover Malaysia & Singapore
Singapore
Singapore
Peninsular Malaysia
Superb restaurants, shops & museums • Cosmopolitan & easy to navigate
Vibrant city of Kuala Lumpur • Tea plantations & delicious cuisine
The island city-state of Singapore lies almost on the equator. Renowned for its efficiency and high standard of service, this is an ideal place to relax for a few days with some of the best restaurants in Asia, beautiful parks and colonial buildings. The different districts, such as Chinatown, Little India and the redeveloped quay areas, are easily explored using the excellent transport links.
The capital of Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, or ‘KL’ to locals, has come a long way since its humble beginnings as a tin mining town. Today it is the largest and fastest growing city in the country, and the huge Petronas Towers that dominate the skyline demonstrate the city’s ambition.
There is a wide range of accommodation, from the luxury Raffles and Mandarin Oriental hotels to good value and centrally located 4-star properties as well as a selection of smaller, boutique hotels such as the Villa Samadhi and the Amoy. The landmark Raffles hotel, birthplace of the Singapore Sling cocktail, is worth a visit to experience the ambience of the famous Long Bar.
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Kuala Lumpur is also the starting point for adventures further afield. Possible as a long day trip but better with an overnight stay, the former Sultanate of Malacca was once a great seaport and displays a unique mix of architectural styles. North of Kuala Lumpur, the Cameron Highlands are a relatively cool retreat from the humidity of the lowlands while even further north, near the border with Thailand, Georgetown is a vibrant mixture of English, Chinese and Indian colonial architecture, culture and cuisine.
Tea plantation, Cameron Highlands
MALAYSIA & SINGAPORE
Malaysian Borneo Tribal culture & landscapes of Sarawak • Islands & beaches of Sabah • Excellent wildlife viewing Part of Malaysian territory, with Indonesian Borneo to the south, Malaysian Borneo in the north of the island is split into the two states of Sabah and Sarawak, sandwiching the sovereign state of Brunei in between. For most visitors a glimpse of orang utans in the wild is the main draw. The jungles here are also home to elephants, monkeys and birds. Most visits start in Sarawak’s laid-back coastal capital, Kuching, which has an attractive waterfront and is close to the Batang Ai National Park, popular with tourists for visits to the traditional longhouses built by the Iban tribe. Further north, Gunung Mulu is Sarawak’s largest national park, centred on the peak of Gunung Mulu and noted for its diverse ecosystems, from peat swamp to limestone and forest terrain. In the far north-west of the island lies Kota Kinabalu, the capital of Sabah state and the base for exploring the offshore islands of Tunku Abdul Rahman National Park, trekking to the summit of Mount Kinabalu or relaxing on one of the nearby beaches. Further along the coast lies Sandakan, the gateway to the orang utan rehabilitation centre at Sepilok, Turtle Islands National Park and journeys along the Kinabatangan river to the wildlife-viewing rainforest lodges in Abai and Sukau. Orang utan, Borneo
C&K Recommends... A beach stay at Tanjung Aru Resort and Spa
The perfect way to end any trip to Borneo is with a stay on one of the island’s glorious beaches. Shangri-La’s Tanjung Aru Resort and Spa is situated near Kota Kinabalu, set alongside an inviting stretch of sparkling South China Sea sand and just 10 minutes’ drive from the airport. The resort has a range of facilities including four excellent restaurants, a spa and a 2,000-sq-metre swimming pool, as well as the superb service that is the hallmark of the Shangri-La hotel group.
Orang utan viewing
The easiest way to see these iconic animals is on a visit to the Sepilok Orang Utan Rehabilitation Centre near Sandakan in Sabah, a short flight from Kota Kinabalu. Founded in 1964, the centre cares for orphaned, injured and captive orang utans and introduces them back into the wild. To see orang utans in the wild, you will need to travel further inland to the Danum Valley Conservation Area. Spotting them here is difficult as they do not live in groups and move around in the jungle, although this does make any sighting all the more authentic and memorable. Sea turtle, Selingan island
A suggested itinerary...
A Journey Through Malaysia 13 Days & 10 Nights from £2,995
In Malaysia, influences from across Asia and Europe have come together to create multicultural customs, fashion, architecture and cuisine. After a short break in Singapore, travel the length of the Malay Peninsula to Penang via Malacca, the Cameron Highlands and Kuala Lumpur. Day 1: Fly to Singapore (N) Day 2: Singapore Arrive and transfer to the Park Hotel Clarke Quay for 2 nights. (N) Day 3: Singapore Vsit Merlion Park, Thian Hock Keng temple and the National Orchid Garden. Afternoon high tea at the legendary Raffles Hotel. (B)
Day 4: Malacca Drive over the Malaysian border to Malacca. Stay at the Casa del Rio for 2 nights. (B) Day 5: Malacca City tour visiting Porta de Santiago, Baba Nyonya Museum and Jonker Street, known for its galleries and antique shops. (B) Day 6: Kuala Lumpur Drive to Kuala Lumpur. Stay 2 nights at the Renaissance Kuala Lumpur. Afternoon tour of Batu caves. Traditional Malay dinner at Bijan restaurant. (B, D) Day 7: Kuala Lumpur Morning city tour, visiting the National Monument, Sultan Abdul Samad government buildings, Independence Square, the Selangor Club and Istana Negara (the King’s Palace). (B) Days 8-9: The Cameron Highlands Morning drive to the Cameron Highlands, stopping en route at an Aboriginal village. Visit the Sungai Palas tea plantation for a tour and tea
tasting. Stay 2 nights at The Lakehouse. (B). Days 10-11: Penang Drive to Penang, the oldest British settlement in Malaysia. Stay at the Lone Pine Hotel for 2 nights. Visit Fort Cornwallis, Wat Chayamangkalaram Thai temple and the Chinese clanhouse of Khoo Kongsi. (B) Days 12-13: Fly home (B) Guideline Prices Low season from: £2,995 (Jan – Mar) High season from: £3,295 (Jul – Aug)
Tailored travel
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MALAYSIA • TOURS
Splendours of Borneo Duration • 15 Days & 12 Nights
Category • Discovery
Private tour • From £3,825
Tour overview This active private tour explores the Malaysian states of Sabah and Sarawak, home to pristine rainforests, smouldering volcanoes, glistening beaches, tribal groups and incredible wildlife. Stay overnight on Selingan island (Turtle Island) to observe nesting turtles and new hatchlings, journey along the Kinabatangan river to spot wildlife and visit the Danum Valley Conservation Area to see orang utans in the wild.
C&K highlights
• Experience the authentic longhouse life of the Iban tribe in Batang Ai • Cruise the Kinabatangan river and spot orang utans and proboscis monkeys • Visit Danum Valley, a conservation area that protects primary rainforest • See turtles hatching on Selingan island • Tour of the historic city of Kuching
Weather Kota Kinabalu J F M A M J J A S O N D A 29 30 31 31 31 31 31 31 31 30 30 30 B 22 22 23 24 24 23 23 23 23 23 23 23 C 170 97 103 146 264 277 249 246 290 316 287 240
A: Maximum average temperature (C) B: Minimum average temperature (C) C: Average rainfall (mm)
Area Map
Iban longhouse, Batang Ai
Day 1: Fly to Kuching (N) Day 2: Kuching Arrive in the charming city of Kuching, a settlement on the banks of the Sarawak river with an appealing waterfront and colonial architecture. Transfer to the Hilton Hotel for 1 night. (N) Day 3: Batang Ai Travel by road to Lubok Antu, then by boat to the Aiman Batang Ai Resort & Retreat, located on the shores of Batang Ai lake, for a 2-night stay. (B, L, D) Day 4: Batang Ai Take a boat journey along the Delok river into the heart of the Sarawak jungle to visit a traditional longhouse. Experience an introduction to longhouse life with the friendly and welcoming Iban tribe, then visit the nearby waterfall. (B, L, D) Day 5: Kuching Morning journey back to Kuching, then take a city tour visiting the Tua Pek Kong Chinese temple, the city mosque, spice markets, the Kuching waterfront and the Sarawak Museum. Transfer to the Hilton Hotel for 1 night. (B) Day 6: Fly to Kota Kinabalu Fly to Kota Kinabalu, the capital of Sabah, and stay 2 nights at the Hyatt Regency. (B)
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Day 7: Kinabalu National Park Follow nature trails through the rich plant life of Kinabalu National Park, then continue to Poring hot springs where you can explore the treetop canopy walkways, bathe in natural springs and look out for the exotic and extremely rare Rafflesia flowers. (B, L) Day 8: Fly to Turtle Island* Early morning flight and boat journey to Selingan island, or Turtle Island, for an overnight stay in national park accommodation. Spend the afternoon relaxing on the island’s unspoilt beaches. This evening, a park ranger will take you to see turtles laying eggs on the beach and releasing hatchlings into the sea. (B, L, D) Day 9: Sepilok • Abai Early morning boat journey to Sandakan and transfer to Sepilok to see the morning feeding of the reserve’s orang utans, which are being reintroduced into the wild. This afternoon, travel to Abai on the banks of Kinabatangan river and stay 1 night at the Abai Lodge. Afternoon river cruise to search for wildlife. (B, L, D) Day 10: Kinabatangan river excursions The wildlife excursions today are wonderful opportunities to see proboscis monkeys, orang utans, pygmy elephants and a variety of birdlife. Stay overnight at the Kinabatangan Riverside Lodge. (B, L, D)
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Proboscis monkeys, Borneo
Day 11: Danum Valley This morning, drive south to the Danum Valley to search for wild orang utans. Take a rainforest walk and venture up to the canopy walkway. Stay 2 nights at Borneo Rainforest Lodge. (B, L, D) Day 12: Danum Valley Full-day exploration of the surrounding rainforest. Visit the Coffin Cliff burial area and swim in freshwater pools. (B, L, D) Day 13: Fly to Kota Kinabalu Fly to Kota Kinabalu and stay at the Hyatt Regency for 1 night. (B) Days 14-15: Fly home Take an overnight flight home and arrive the next day (B) Meal basis: As per itinerary – B: Breakfast, L: Lunch, D: Dinner, N: No meals.
Important information Locally escorted tour: This tour is led in each destination en route by a local tour guide. Discovery tour: This type of tour is best suited to the hardier traveller as it includes some quite basic accommodation, longer and rougher road journeys and more strenuous activities, such as jungle walking. Please visit this tour on our website to see further details of the hotels included. * Turtle Island: Visits to the island are subject to local conditions and FCO advice. If unavailable, a night at the MY Nature Resort near Sepilok is recommended instead. Extensions: Extend your stay in Kota Kinabalu with a few days on the beach at the luxury Shangri-La’s Tanjung Aru Resort, or at the Bunga
Raya Island Resort in the offshore Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park. Tailor-made travel: For a price quote based on alternative accommodation standards, to discuss flight options or to tailor this itinerary, please call 020 7808 6786 or email [email protected].
Guideline prices for 2017 Low season from £3,825 Guide price months: Jan – Mar High season from £4,355 Guide price months: Jul – Aug The guideline high season prices may be significantly lower than the peak season prices (15 Dec – 03 Jan)
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MALAYSIA & SINGAPORE • ACCOMMODATION
Hotel Collection This is a selection of our recommended hotels. Please see our website for more options.
Luxury
Luxury
Superior
Raffles Singapore
The Fullerton, Singapore
Villa Samadhi, Singapore
Features:
Features:
Features:
Established in 1887, Raffles is one of the world’s great hotels and was once a focal point for Singapore high society. Spacious suites are decorated in colonial style, with elegant period furnishings in teak, marble and silk exuding warmth and character. Enjoy a Singapore Sling in the famous Long Bar where previous visitors include Charlie Chaplin, Somerset Maugham and Ava Gardner. 103 rooms, 4 restaurants, bakery, Tiffin room, 2 bars, spa with sauna & steam room.
Superior
The landmark Fullerton building, located on the Singapore river, was completed in 1928 and is within walking distance of the Marina Bay shops and the Asian Civilisations Museum. It served as the post office, Singapore Town Club and Chamber of Commerce before being developed into a luxury hotel. The Palladian exterior hides a stylish 21st-century hotel with modern guestrooms. 400 rooms, restaurant, rooftop pool, spa, heritage gallery, boutique shops.
Luxury
Villa Samadhi Singapore is situated in the Labrador Nature Reserve in the south of the city, offering a tranquil retreat from the bustle of the centre. Converted into a boutique hotel from a restored colonial residence, rooms retain their charm and some original features, complemented by modern amenities and technology. The largest suite has its own outdoor pool while others have plunge pools. 20 rooms, restaurant, lounge, bar, library, Wi-Fi.
Good Standard
Villa Samadhi, Kuala Lumpur
The Eastern & Oriental, Penang
Seven Terraces, Penang
Features:
Features:
Features:
An intimate urban retreat, the Villa Samadhi is located in a quiet, central area of Kuala Lumpur. Its collection of luxurious neo-Asian villa-suites are built in the traditional Bumbung style around the swimming pool and restaurant, and overlooked by the rooftop bar. Rooms make abundant use of dark timber and bamboo to create a refined ambience, some with a kitchen and private garden. 21 rooms, restaurant, rooftop bar, swimming pool, Wi-Fi.
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The Eastern & Oriental Hotel is a historical gem and the benchmark of grand colonial hotels from the early 20th century. Once described as the finest hotel east of Suez, it was known simply as ‘the E&O’ to generations of travellers. Built in 1885, the Heritage Wing is the historical heart of the hotel, while the Victory Annexe, opened in 2013, still retains the essence of E&O’s rich heritage. 100 rooms, 6 restaurants, pool with views over the seafront, historical gallery.
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A boutique hotel with 18 suites, Seven Terraces is a conversion from a row of Anglo-Chinese terrace houses, next door to the 1810 Goddess of Mercy Temple. Accommodation is set around an elegant Chinese-style courtyard, with beds of frangipani set between tall wooden columns and tessellated walkways. Rooms are air conditioned with open-plan bathrooms, fourposter beds, antique furniture and artwork. 18 suites, restaurant, lap pool, veranda, antique shop, Wi-Fi.
ACCOMMODATION • MALAYSIA & SINGAPORE
This is a selection of our recommended hotels. Please see our website for more options.
Luxury
Superior
Superior
The Datai, Langkawi
The Danna, Langkawi
Pangkor Laut Resort, Pangkor
Features:
Features:
Features:
The Datai is situated on the north-west tip of the island of Langkawi. It is an exclusive nature retreat surrounded by 500-million-year-old virgin rainforest. Complimentary morning and evening nature walks in the rainforest are available, led by the world-renowned resident naturalist, Irshad Mobarak. Rooms have views over the forest out to the Andaman Sea and the beach below. 124 rooms, 4 restaurants, 2 pools, private beach access, golf course, water-sports facilities.
Superior
Banjaran Hotsprings Retreat, Ipoh
Set deep in the hills of the Kinta valley near Ipoh, the Banjaran Hotsprings Retreat has a stunning setting around a natural pool. The retreat specialises in tailor-made holistic wellness programmes prepared by experienced wellness practitioners, incorporating diet, massages, spa treatments and fitness classes. The restaurant focuses on seasonal, low-fat organic produce, complemented by fine wines.
Features:
26 villas, restaurant, juice bar, steam cave, ice bath, hot spring pools.
Located on the west coast of Langkawi, just 15 minutes’ drive from the international airport, The Danna is a luxury resort set against a backdrop of mountains. Designed in a British colonial style, the hotel is part of Telaga harbour area, which was constructed to resemble a Mediterranean harbour town, such as those along the French Riviera, with many bars and restaurants. 125 rooms, restaurant, cafe, bar, wine cellar, spa, infinity pool.
Good Standard
Sitting alone on the idyllic private island of Pangkor in the Straits of Malacca, the Pangkor Laut Resort’s villas are built into the hillside, on the beach, and on stilts above the bay. It has one of the world’s most beautiful beaches at Emerald Bay and there are possibilities for jungle exploration, fishing trips and kayaking. The indulgent spa village is set in the south of the island. 140 rooms, 2 restaurants, spa, tennis court, 2 outdoor pools.
Good Standard
The Bunga Raya Island Resort, Gaya Island
Borneo Rainforest Lodge, Danum Valley
Features:
Features:
Tucked away on a tranquil bay on the island of Gaya, the Bunga Raya Island Resort is framed by a white sand beach on one side and centuries-old virgin jungle on the other. The exotic hideaway has 48 timber villas beautifully handcrafted by local tradesmen and terraced into the hillside, reflecting the traditional Bornean style. 48 private villas, 2 restaurants, wine cellar, spa, swimming pool.
With the backdrop of a thick blanket of virgin rainforest hanging over a meandering river, the Borneo Rainforest Lodge offers comfortable accommodation in stilted bungalows with en suite bathrooms, polished wooden floors, ceiling fans and balconies, some with river views. The surrounding 43,800 hectares of jungle are replete with animal and plant life. 31 chalets, treetop canopy walk, restaurant, bar, gift shop, Wi-Fi.
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Indonesia, PNG & the Philippines Tailor-made travel • Cruises Philippines
Indonesia is a vast archipelago encompassing more than 17,000 islands. Look out for swinging orang utans and the unusual Komodo dragon, explore Hindu and Buddhist temples and enjoy vistas of volcanoes, rice terraces and isolated beaches.
Malaysia Indonesia Singapore Papua New Guinea
Papua New Guinea occupies the eastern half of the island of New Guinea and its offshore islands. Tourism remains very much in its infancy but it is a rewarding destination, home to stunning natural beauty and fascinating local culture. With more than 7,000 islands to discover, the Philippines offers a diverse range of experiences and excursions. While the country’s countless beaches, some remote and some fronted by luxury hotels, are well known, there is much more to discover beyond the sands. Discover Indonesia, Papua New Guinea & the Philippines 142 Indonesia 146 Papua New Guinea 148 The Philippines 150 Cruising in South-East Asia
Private tour 144 Indonesia Wildlife Adventure • Private
Climate
Indonesia has a fairly even climate year-round with two seasons: wet (October – April), and dry (May – September). Papua New Guinea’s dry season is from May to October while for the Philippines it is generally from November to April.
Image left: Lagoon, Coron, Philippines
Bali, Indonesia
Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea
J F M A M J J A S O N D
J F M A M J J A S O N D
A 31 31 31 31 31 30 29 29 30 31 31 31
A 31 31 31 30 30 29 29 29 30 31 31 31
B 24 24 24 24 24 23 23 23 23 24 24 24
B 23 23 23 23 24 22 22 22 22 23 23 23
C 325 267 221 111 101 69 76 44 79 146 193 250
C 231 225 248 148 107 68 40 49 82 87 98 168
Key: A: Maximum average temperature (C) B: Minimum average temperature (C) C: Average rainfall (mm)
Inspired to venture further afield? Browse our website to discover additional destinations, places to stay and itineraries; or speak to our Indonesia, Papua New Guinea & the Philippines experts. t
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INDONESIA
Discover Indonesia
Water garden at the Sultan's Palace, Yogyakarta, Java
Yogyakarta, Java
Solo, Java
Modern yet traditional city • Artistic centre
Former capital & cultural centre
Yogyakarta is the cultural centre of Java and offers an interesting contrast between modern and traditional Indonesia. The city is heaving with traffic, shops and restaurants, while maintaining a flourishing arts scene, with batik workshops, upmarket galleries and wayang golek (puppetry) shows. The main sites are the Keraton, or Sultan’s Palace, an ancient walled city built in the 18th century and notable for its magnificent Javanese architecture; and the Sonobudoyo Museum, housing an excellent collection of Javanese art, masks and carvings.
Also known as Surakarta, Solo in central Java is an important cultural centre for the Javanese people. Together with nearby Yogyakarta, the city shares a history as the heir of the Mataram Kingdom. Previously the site of a small village, in 1745 the Mataram susuhunan (king) moved his capital here. It was then that the city began to grow and establish its importance in arts, music and court culture. During the 1945 struggle for independence, Solo lost out to Yogyakarta as the seat of the independent government and began to decline in significance.
Mount Bromo, Java
Borobudur, Yogyakarta, Java
Mount Bromo, Java
Borobudur, Java
Extraordinary rugged landscapes • Sunrise vistas
Immense monument & Buddhist pilgrimage site
Bromo-Tengger-Semeru National Park is named after the Tengger people who inhabit the area and its two mountains: Mount Semeru, Java’s highest mountain and one of Indonesia’s most active volcanoes, and Mount Bromo, whose entire top was blown off during previous eruptions while the crater constantly belches white sulphurous smoke. Mount Bromo is a popular place to watch the sunrise and the park’s rugged scenery is one of unearthly beauty with barren volcanic peaks, gravel plains and areas of lush green vegetation.
Borobudur is a ninth-century Mahayana Buddhist monument in Magelang, central Java, a short drive from Yogyakarta. The sanctuary was founded by a king of the Sailendra dynasty and is made up of more than a million cut-stone blocks, 1,460 stone relief panels and 504 life-size Buddha statues, each sculpted from a single stone. The architecture and carving demonstrates India’s influence over the region while the indigenous scenes depicted make Borobudur unique. The temple remains an important place of pilgrimage for Buddhists.
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INDONESIA
Rice terraces in Ubud, Bali
Bali & Lombok Outstanding beach resorts • Scenic town of Ubud • Volcanic scenery & beaches of Lombok Primarily known for its beaches, Bali has a number of different resort areas such as the luxury destination of Seminyak and its magnificent beach, the less crowded seaside town of Sanur, the splendid white sands and upmarket hotels of Jimbaran Bay or the promenades and beaches of Nusa Dua. For a change of pace, the small town of Ubud, set among the rice fields and mountains, has a rich cultural and historical heritage dating back to the eighth century. Today it features high-end hotels, restaurants, spas and galleries. While the island of Lombok may not have the nightlife and infrastructure of neighbouring Bali, the beaches of Senggigi, snorkelling from the Gili islands and a dramatic volcanic interior make for a memorable visit. Trek up Mount Rinjani, an active volcano, for stunning views, caves and the Segara Anak crater lake. Gili Meno, Lombok
A suggested itinerary...
Highlights of Java & Bali
14 Days & 11 Nights from £2,995 Day 1: Fly to Surabaya (N) Day 2: Surabaya Arrive and transfer to Hotel Majapahit. Trips to Mount Bromo can be arranged from Surabaya. (N) Day 3: Malang Drive to Malang via the Purwodadi botanical gardens and stay overnight at the Tugu Malang hotel, which houses a collection of Indonesian antiques and curios. (B, L) Days 4-5: Blitar Continue east to Blitar and visit the museum and tomb dedicated to Indonesia’s first president, Sukarno, and the Penataran temple complex.
Stay at the Tugu Blitar hotel for 2 nights. (B, L) Day 6: Solo Train journey across Java to Solo (Surakarta). Stay for 2 nights at the Royal Surakarta Heritage Solo. (B) Day 7: Solo Full-day tour including the Keraton (palace), Klewer market and Sukuh, a 15th-century Javanese-Hindu temple. (B, L) Days 8-9: Yogyakarta Drive to Indonesia’s cultural centre of Yogyakarta and visit the magnificent ninth-century Hindu temple of Prambanan and the Candi Plaosan Buddhist temple. Stay at the Phoenix Hotel Yogyakarta for 2 nights. (B, L) Day 10: Borobudur Visit Borobudur, a ninth-century Mahayana Buddhist monument, then drive into the jungle to Plataran Borobudur Resort & Spa for
1 night. (B, L) Days 11-12: Fly to Ubud Fly to Denpasar in Bali and transfer to Ubud. Stay at the Maya Ubud for 2 nights. Take a short tour of Ubud town and the beautiful rice terraces at Tegalalang (B) Days 13-14: Fly home (B) Guideline Prices Low season from: £2,995 (Jan – Mar) High season from: £3,195 (Jun – Jul)
Tailored travel
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INDONESIA • TOURS
Indonesia Wildlife Adventure Duration • 15 Days & 12 Nights
Category • Discovery
species of birds. Transfer by boat to the mainland and then drive north to Jakarta. Stay for 1 night at the FM7 Resort. (B, L)
Tour overview With over 17,000 islands and diverse ecosystems, Indonesia supports a level of biodiversity second only to Brazil. On this private itinerary, go in search of orang utans and Komodo dragons, lesser known species of deer and monkeys, as well as some of the country’s 1,500 birds. Indonesia’s seas also harbour an array of marine life, with tropical fish, sponges, coral and dolphins to see while cruising and snorkelling in the Ujung Kulon and Komodo national parks.
Day 11: Fly to Indonesian Borneo Early morning flight to Pangkalan Bun in Kalimantan, part of Indonesian Borneo. Transfer to Kumai and take a river boat journey to the Tanjung Puting National Park. Late afternoon tour to see proboscis monkeys. Stay 3 nights at the Rimba Ecolodge. (B, L, D)
C&K highlights
Komodo dragon
• Search for orang utans in remote Kalimantan • 2-night cruise in Komodo National Park • Boat tour to the Krakatoa islands • Spot wildlife in Ujung Kulon National Park on a canoe ride • Look for rare bird species on Peucang island
Day 1: Fly to Bali (N)
Weather Jakarta
Days 4-5: Komodo National Park Transfer to the harbour to begin a 2-night cruise in the Komodo National Park. Visit small islands and coves for snorkelling and swimming. Cruise to Komodo island to begin a hike to see the Komodo dragons. Stay on a private boat for 2 nights. (B, L, D)
J F M A M J J A S O N D A 30 31 32 33 33 32 32 33 33 33 32 32 B 23 23 23 23 23 23 22 22 23 23 23 23 C 406 298 245 195 173 100 77 77 93 146 174 225
A: Maximum average temperature (C) B: Minimum average temperature (C) C: Average rainfall (mm)
Area Map
Day 2: Bali Transfer to Ramada Resort Camakila Bali for 1 night. (N) Day 3: Fly to Flores island Fly to Labuan Bajo on Flores island and stay 1 night at Plataran Komodo Beach Resort. (B)
Day 6: Fly to Jakarta via Bali Disembark early in the morning in Labuan Bajo and visit the Batu Cermin cave. Transfer to the airport and fly to Jakarta via Bali. Stay for 1 night at the FM7 Resort. (B) Day 7: West coast of Java Drive to the west coast of Java and stay 2 nights at the Aston Anyer Beach Hotel. (B) Day 8: Krakatoa Full-day boat tour to the Krakatoa islands, including a hike on Anak Krakatau island (‘Child of Krakatoa’) followed by snorkelling and a picnic on the beach. (B, L, D)
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Private tour • From £4,525
Days 12-13: Tanjung Puting National Park Explore the jungles surrounding the lodge looking for orang utans and other wildlife. Visit the Camp Leakey research station, the Pondok Tanggui orang utan feeding station and the Pesalat Reforestation Project. (B, L, D) Days 14-15: Fly home via Jakarta Morning boat journey to Kumai, then drive to Pangkalan Bun airport. Fly to Jakarta, and connect with your flight home. (B) Meal basis: As per itinerary – B: Breakfast, L: Lunch, D: Dinner, N: No meals.
Important information Locally escorted tour: This tour is led in each destination en route by a local tour guide. Discovery tour: This tour is better suited to the hardier traveller as it includes some quite basic lodge accommodation, rough road and sea journeys, and a lot of jungle walking. Please visit this tour on our website to see details of the hotels included. Extensions: Indonesia has an excellent choice of beach hotels in Bali and Lombok. Please speak to one of our Far East experts for further details. Tailor-made travel: For a price quote based on alternative accommodation standards, to discuss flight options or to tailor this itinerary, please call 020 7808 6786 or email [email protected].
Guideline prices for 2017
Day 9: Ujung Kulon National Park Full-day tour to the Ujung Kulon National Park, with a canoe journey up the Cigenter river for wildlife viewing. Overnight at the Peucang Island Eco Resort. (B, L, D)
Low season from £4,525 Guide price months: Jan – Mar
Day 10: Jakarta Morning wildlife viewing tour on Peucang island, with the chance to see deer, monkeys and many
The guideline high season prices may be significantly lower than the peak season prices (15 Dec – 03 Jan)
Contact us on 020 7808 6786 or [email protected]
High season from £4,695 Guide price months: Jul – Sep
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Orang utans, Borneo
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PAPUA NEW GUINEA
Discover Papua New Guinea Papua New Guinea lies east of Indonesia and comprises more than 600 islands. Tourism is still very much in its infancy here, but it is an extremely rewarding destination with authentic cultural encounters and a huge range of unique flora and fauna. Two-thirds of the world’s species of orchid come from Papua New Guinea, while there are 38 species of birds-of-paradise, 450 different species of butterflies, along with marsupials and mammals such as tree kangaroos, wallabies, bandicoots and spiny anteaters. Private travel is possible in Papua New Guinea, with many excursions operated by lodges and conducted on a group basis. However there is a lack of tourism infrastructure in many parts of the country and therefore a degree of flexibility is required.
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Raja Ampat islands, Papua New Guinea
PAPUA NEW GUINEA
C&K Recommends... Birdwatching
Papua New Guinea is home to more than 781 bird species, including 76 endemic species and 38 of the 43 known species of birds-of-paradise. Notable endemic species include Raggianas, blue birds-of-paradise, fire-maned bowerbirds, crested berrypeckers and the stunning Victoria crowned pigeon. Ambua Lodge near Tari has recorded 217 species in its surrounding jungle, while Rondon Ridge near Mount Hagen has more than 180. Take a riverboat tour from Karawari Lodge, also near Mount Hagen, to see an incredible variety of water birds or see huge flocks of migratory birds at Bensbach Wildlife Lodge in the remote south-west.
Village visits
Papua New Guinea is culturally diverse, with more than 800 languages among a population of less than 7 million. A visit to a local village is the best way to learn about local customs and beliefs: Tokua village is notable for its re-enactments of the traditional Moka ceremony, a ritualised exchange, often of pigs, which are highly valued in the highlands; at Paiyagona village meet the chief and his multiple wives, visit the spirit house, and the chief’s ancestors’ skeleton house; and in Pogla village encounter the Asaro Mudmen of the Wahgi valley.
Dragon dance mask, Papua New Guinea
The Goroka Show
Staged since 1957, the Goroka Show was founded by the kiaps, the district officers and patrol officers who acted as travelling representatives of the British and Australian governments before independence. The kiaps brought in ‘sing sing’ groups from the different areas they patrolled, which encompassed 29 different languages and societies from the Eastern Highlands. The Goroka Show has since grown to become one of the most vivid cultural events in Papua New Guinea, where visitors can experience the customs of over a hundred tribes.
The Sepik Spirit floating lodge
For those who prefer to base themselves in one area and make daily excursions, a stay on the Sepik Spirit is ideal. Originally commissioned as a river cruiser, the vessel is currently moored and offers nine spacious en suite rooms, an air-conditioned lounge, bar and dining areas. Excursions are made on 18-seater boats, with shallow drafts and the ability to manoeuvre where larger vessels cannot go. The Sepik Spirit is also now available for cruise itineraries – please ask for details. Victoria crowned pigeon, Papua New Guinea
A suggested itinerary...
Papua New Guinea Highlands Discovery
14 Days & 11 Nights from £8,395 Visit remote villages with unique cultures and beliefs, where the way of life has remained relatively unchanged for thousands of years. All excursions are on a group basis. Day 1: Fly to Singapore (N) Day 2: Fly to Mt Hagen via Port Moresby Fly from Singapore to Mount Hagen via Port Moresby, then drive through the highlands to Rondon Ridge. Take an afternoon guided nature walk and birdwatching. Stay 3 nights at Rondon Ridge. (L, D) Days 3-4: Mt Hagen Discover the traditions and customs of the Melpa people of the Wahgi Valley. (B, L, D) Day 5: Fly to Karawari Fly to Karawari and stay at the Karawari Lodge for 3 nights. Visit the Kundiman village for a sago-
making demonstration. (B, L, D) Days 6-7: Karawari river Journey along the Karawari river to visit small riverside villages, and see carved totems, drums and woodcarvings. Look out for plentiful birdlife along the way. (B, L, D) Day 8: Tari Fly to Tari and transfer to the Ambua Lodge for 2 nights. During your stay you will meet the colourful and proud Huli people who live in the nearby Tari valley. (B, L, D) Day 9: Tari Explore the surrounding jungle and discover the area’s numerous orchid species, with the chance to spot some of the 13 species of birds of paradise found here. (B, L, D) Day 10: Fly to Madang via Port Moresby Fly from Tari airport via Port Moresby to Madang. Stay at the Malolo Plantation Lodge for 2 nights. (B, L, D) Day 11: Madang Drive along the scenic north coast, stopping en route at villages to learn about herbal medicine and local traditional cooking. Afternoon visit to
roadside markets, the Coastwatchers Memorial Lighthouse and the Madang Cultural Museum. (B, L, D) Day 12: Fly to Port Moresby Fly to Port Moresby and stay 1 night at the Airways Hotel. (B) Day 13: Fly home via Singapore Transfer to the airport and fly home via Singapore. (B) Day 14: Arrive home (N) Guideline Prices Low season from: £8,395 (Feb – Mar) High season from: £8,595 (Jan)
Tailored travel
Contact our experts t e
020 7808 6786 [email protected]
Find out more at coxandkings.co.uk or from your travel agent
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THE PHILIPPINES
Discover The Philippines
Chocolate Hills, Bohol
Malate church, Manila
Banaue rice terraces, Banaue
Manila
North Luzon
Spanish colonial history • Churches of Vigan & Laoag
Banaue rice terraces • Hanging coffins of Sagada
Capital of the Philippines, Manila is situated on Luzon, the largest and most populous island in the Philippines. Its historic walled city is known as Intramuros, Latin for ‘within the walls’. Once the heart of the Spanish colonial government and heavily fortified, the area contains a number of historic buildings and landmarks.
Designated a Unesco world heritage site in 1955, the rice terraces of the Philippine Cordilleras in Ifugao province are made up of five separate sites – the most famous in Batad and Bangaan – that make up the area known as Banaue. These terraces, or payo, are cut into the contours of the hills and mountains around the province, a 2,000-year-old, manmade feat of engineering. Ifugao is home to the ethnic group of the same name, and it is possible to learn more about their culture and traditions at the Banaue Museum or the village of Tam-an.
Fort Santiago was the headquarters of Spanish military troops and prison to thousands of Filipinos, including the country’s national hero, José Rizal. San Agustin church was founded in 1571 and is now the oldest stone church in the Philippines; terms for the American occupation of Manila were signed here in the sacristy. Nearby is Casa Manila, a reconstruction of the San Nicolas House from the 1850s, rebuilt during the 1980s in a Spanish-colonial architectural style. A few blocks away is Plaza de Roma, dominated by Manila’s imposing cathedral.
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Also well worth visiting is the province of Sagada, known for its many hanging coffins that are placed high on cliffs in the mountains of the Echo Valley. There are also many caves and hot springs to explore, as well as textile weaving workshops specialising in the local art of backstrap weaving.
THE PHILIPPINES
Entrance to the underground river, Puerto Princesa
Palawan Cruise on the underground river • Stunning beaches & rock formations Puerto Princesa is the capital city of Palawan, an island in the west of the Philippines archipelago. With a population of just over 200,000 it is more low-key than other cities and is known as the ‘greenest city in the Philippines’. The city was founded in 1872 by Spanish colonialists and remains the commercial and cultural centre of Palawan. Located in the centre of the island, and with good transport links and daily flights to Manila, Puerto Princesa is the main gateway to the beautiful beaches and natural attractions Palawan is famous for, including the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park, an enchanting limestone karst landscape with caves and rock formations. The river can be visited on a day trip from Puerto Princesa, or stay in a nearby hotel for a more relaxing visit. Marimegmeg (Las Cabanas) beach, El Nido
C&K Recommends... Stay at Pangulasian Island, El Nido, Palawan
Pangulasian Island is El Nido Resorts’ newest and most luxurious island hideaway, located in Bacuit Bay, El Nido. The resort is set fronting a pristine 750-metre white sand beach and against a backdrop of tropical forest. All the 42 spacious villas are built in contemporary Filipino style, perched high on stilts above the forest or set on the beachfront. Relax in the spa, lounge by the infinity pool and beach bar, or make visits to vibrant coral reefs and small island beach clubs just minutes away, where you can stroll along pristine sands or go snorkelling. Pangalusian island, Palawan
A suggested itinerary...
Island Hopping in the Philippines
14 Days & 11 Nights from £3,355 Discover Manila’s colonial history, then fly to the islands of Cebu and Bohol to see more of the country’s wildlife and countryside, including the chance to spot whales. Finish on the white sand beaches of Boracay. Day 1: Fly to Manila (N) Day 2: Manila Arrive and transfer to the Manila Hotel for a 2-night stay. (N) Day 3: Manila Morning tour of Intramuros district to visit Fort Santiago, San Agustin church and Casa Manila. Afternoon at leisure. (B, L)
Day 4: Fly to Cebu Fly to Cebu and transfer to the Crimson Resort & Spa Mactan, an hour north of Cebu city, and stay for 2 nights. (B) Day 5: Island-hopping cruise Full day island-hopping boat tour aboard a large motorised outrigger canoe. Drop anchor near a small island in the marine reserve and snorkel over the reef, swim or sunbathe. (B, L) Day 6: Bohol High-speed ferry to Bohol. Transfer to the Eskaya hotel for 3 nights. (B) Day 7: Bohol Full-day tour of Bohol, visiting the Unesco site of the Chocolate Hills, the Tarsier Sanctuary and a cruise on the scenic Loboc river. (B, L) Day 8: Whale & dolphin watching tour Full-day whale and dolphin watching tour. Dolphins can be sighted year round but the best time to spot whales is between March and June when sperm whales and Bryde’s whales can be seen. (B, L)
Days 9-12: Fly to Boracay via Manila Drive to Tagbilaran, then fly to Boracay via Manila. On arrival, take the hotel’s boat direct to the Shangri-La Boracay for a 4-night stay. (B) Day 13: Fly to Manila & on to Hong Kong Fly to Manila and connect with onward flights home. (B) Day 14: Arrive home (N) Guideline Prices Low season from: £3,355 (Jun) High season from: £3,995 (Oct – Nov)
Tailored travel
Contact our experts t e
020 7808 6786 [email protected]
Find out more at coxandkings.co.uk or from your travel agent
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SOUTH-EAST ASIA • CRUISING
Cruising with Silversea In a world of multi-national conglomerates, Silversea is owned and operated by one family — the Lefebvre family of Rome. This means genuine pride in ownership and a true Italian passion for embracing the best of life, with a personal commitment to maintain the high standards that have been the cornerstone of Silversea from the very beginning. Their small, luxury ships are designed for those who seek the thrill of discovering remote destinations without compromising on comfort: enjoy gourmet food, fine wine and first-class facilities and suites. Silversea’s voyages sail to over 800 destinations on all seven continents, more than any other cruise line.
Types of Cruises
Silversea island excursion
Silversea Expeditions
Silversea Cruises
The Silversea Expeditions range of cruises venture throughout the Far East, specialising in places otherwise hard to reach while travelling aboard the Silver Discoverer vessel. Sample itineraries include the Otaru to Kobe cruise to remote areas of Japan such as Hokkaido and Sado island, in addition to Hiroshima and Miyajima island, while the Balikpapan to Singapore cruise visits the remote Indonesian Karimunjawa islands with a chance to spot orang utans in Indonesian Borneo.
The Silversea Cruises programme utilises the more luxurious Silver Shadow vessel, with spacious suites and superior service, paired with a lively cosmopolitan atmosphere and enhanced amenities. Sample itineraries include sailings between Tokyo and Hong Kong via China, from Hong Kong to Singapore via Vietnam and Thailand, and round-trip cruises from Singapore via Malaysia, Burma and the beaches of Langkawi.
Silver Discoverer
Silver Shadow
Vessels Silver Discoverer
Silver Shadow
The sleek, 120-guest Silver Discoverer cruise ship is the perfect platform for viewing untamed landscapes, with all ocean-view suites and plenty of deck space so that a breaching whale or a pod of dolphins is always within sight. Silver Discoverer’s shallow draft allows her to navigate closer to shore, along with her fleet of 12 Zodiacs. The vessel features 62 suites spread over four decks, ranging from Explorer suites with two porthole windows to sumptuous Medallion suites with a teak balcony and floorto-ceiling glass doors. Ship facilities include restaurant, bar, lounge, a beauty salon, steam room, sauna, outdoor pool and a fitness centre with aerobics, yoga and pilates classes.
Launched in 2000, the Silver Shadow is one of Silversea's Millennium Class luxury cruise ships, with a capacity for up to 382 guests and a crew of 302. There is plenty of open deck space on board and many facilities including a fitness centre, spa, outdoor swimming pool, library, internet cafe and running track. The ship offers luxurious suite-only accommodation, each providing large windows, ocean views and 24-hour butler service. There are many dining options from which to choose, including authentic Italian cuisine served at La Terrazza, light lunches offered at the poolside grill and a tasting menu and fine wines offered by Le Champagne, the only Relais & Châteaux restaurant at sea.
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CRUISING • SOUTH-EAST ASIA
Cruising with Coral Expeditions Australian-owned Coral Expeditions operates a fleet of three small ships, travelling to some of the most beautiful and remote regions of Asia-Pacific. At a time when the cruise industry is moving to larger and larger ships, Coral Expeditions have limited the size of their vessels to maximise the expedition experience, resulting in an intimate onboard atmosphere and bespoke itineraries that larger ships cannot replicate. Cuisine is prepared on board and uses high-quality Australian produce and wine. Coral Expeditions were also the first to introduce interpretive programmes and to employ expedition leaders, guest lecturers and marine biologists among their staff. Halong Bay, Vietnam
Types of Cruises
Suggested cruise itineraries …
2017 Inaugural Asia Expeditions
A Passage to Lost Burma
Coral Expedition’s Asian voyages are true adventures, featuring the same immersive style, Australian hospitality and expedition crew that guests have come to love. Covering the coastlines of Malaysia, Thailand, Burma (Myanmar), Cambodia, Vietnam and Indonesia, the itineraries linger in historical towns, pristine marine parks and picture-perfect islands that can only be visited by small ship. Excursions are included to such remarkable places as the colonial township of Moulmein (Mawlamyine) in Burma, and the fascinating former penal islands of Con Dao off the coast of Vietnam, now a national marine park. Taking advantage of the Coral Discoverer’s shallow draught and navigational capabilities, the itineraries also venture up the Irrawaddy and Mekong rivers to berth in the heart of Rangoon (Yangon) and Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon).
Singapore to Rangoon (& vice versa), 12 nights
Beaches, Villages & Temple Towns
Singapore to Ho Chi Minh City (& vice versa), 10 nights
A Classic Voyage Through Old Vietnam
Ho Chi Minh City to Hanoi (& vice versa), 12 nights
An Expedition Through the Indonesian Archipelago Singapore to Darwin, 17 nights
Orangutans & Lost Tribes of the Java Sea Kalimantan to Singapore, 8 nights
Coral Discoverer
Vessels Coral Discoverer Launched in 2005, Coral Discoverer set a new benchmark for small ship expedition cruising. Accommodating just 72 passengers, her shallow draught and manoeuvrability allow her to travel where larger vessels cannot. Equipped with the latest navigational and stabilising technology, you can be sure of comfortable and safe cruising in open waters. Recently renovated in November 2016, the new undercover deck area features a round bar with bar stools, a sun deck with lounges and an area with outdoor exercise equipment. Furthermore, the Coral Discoverer tender vessel, the Xplorer, can seat all 72 passengers, which means no waiting around to join an excursion. Shore excursions by the Xplorer vessel
Find out more at coxandkings.co.uk or from your travel agent
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INFORMATION
Booking Conditions Our full booking conditions apply to all bookings. These appear on our website www.coxandkings. co.uk and can also be provided by post or e-mail on request. The following booking conditions contain only some of the terms and conditions (which may also be a summary) which apply to your booking. Before you make your booking, you must read our full booking conditions. By seeking confirmation of your booking, we are entitled to assume that you have done so and accept the full booking conditions as the basis for your contract with Cox & Kings Travel Limited (‘Cox & Kings’, ‘we’, ‘our’ or ‘us’) and with any supplier with whom you have a direct contract. In these booking conditions, ‘you’ and ‘your’ means all persons named on the booking or any of them as applicable (including anyone who is added or substituted at a later date). 1) YOUR CONTRACT (a) If you book only one type of arrangement with Cox & Kings (for example hotel(s) only or cruise only) and unless otherwise advised at the time of booking, Cox & Kings acts only as a booking agent for the supplier of that arrangement (for example the hotel or cruise provider). Your contract for that arrangement will be with that supplier (in these conditions referred to as the ‘Third Party Supplier’) and not Cox & Kings. The Third Party Supplier’s own terms and conditions (copies available on request) will apply to that contract in addition to the applicable parts of these conditions. (b) In all other cases your contract will be with Cox & Kings. (c) When you make a booking the person who makes the booking guarantees that they have the authority to accept and do accept on behalf of your party the terms of these booking conditions. 2) BOOKING, PAYMENT AND CONFIRMATION (a) Information as to how to make a booking, including the applicable deposit or other amount payable in order to do so and how we will communicate with you in respect of your booking, is shown on our website. For some holidays, a higher deposit will be payable or it may be necessary to make full payment at the time of booking. This is usually the case where full payment for certain services, such as your flight, has to be made immediately after your booking is confirmed in order to secure that service or the price quoted at the time of booking. Where full payment is required at the time of booking, 100% cancellation charges will also apply from confirmation in the event that you subsequently cancel. (b) Where you book over the telephone and we are in a position to confirm your booking, a binding contract between you and Cox & Kings or between you and the Third Party Supplier, as applicable, will come into existence as soon as you provide your credit or debit card details to make payment and we verbally confirm your booking. Bookings made via our website will be confirmed at the end of the online booking process. All other bookings will be confirmed and a binding contract will come into existence when we issue a confirmation invoice. Please note, though, that if you book private travel arrangements or an extension to a group tour, your accommodation, flights etc will only be requested by Cox & Kings once the payment due at the time of booking has been received. Your confirmation invoice will indicate your requested package cost and you will be advised of any accommodation, flights etc that are still on request and not confirmed at the time the confirmation invoice is issued. (c) It is your responsibility to check the confirmation invoice and any other documents we send you carefully and to let Cox & Kings or your travel agent know immediately in the event of any error or inaccuracy, as it may not be possible to make changes later. Where we act only as agent for a Third Party Supplier we will have no responsibility for any errors in any documentation except where those errors were made by ourselves.
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(d) The balance of the cost of your arrangements is payable not less than eight weeks prior to departure, unless you are informed otherwise. If all payments (including any surcharge where applicable) are not received on time, we (or we acting as agent for the Third Party Supplier where applicable) are entitled to assume that you wish to cancel your booking and will retain the deposit paid. If we do not cancel straightaway because you promise to make payment but you still fail to do so, you must pay the cancellation charges shown in clause 10 depending on the date we (or we acting as agent for the Third Party Supplier where applicable) reasonably treat your booking as cancelled by you. (e) Travel documents will be provided as referred to our full booking conditions. (f) Cox & Kings has included in the relevant prices all government taxes in the amount applicable at the time of booking that do not have to be paid locally. Those that have to be paid locally by you are extra and are your responsibility (such as international airport departure tax). 3) SPECIAL REQUESTS / MEDICAL CONDITIONS / DISABILITIES / REDUCED MOBILITY If you have any special requests for flight seats, room / cabin allocation, dietary considerations Etc, you must advise in writing at the time of booking. The same applies to any disability, medical condition or reduced mobility which may affect your arrangements or the booking process so that we can advise as to the suitability of the chosen arrangements and / or assist you with making your booking. We will deal with special requests and information relating to any disability, medical condition or reduced mobility as referred to in our full booking conditions. 4) YOUR TRAVEL AGENT For holidays which do not include flights organised by us, any money you pay to one of our authorised travel agents for your booking will be held by the travel agent on behalf of Cox & Kings / the Third Party Supplier (as applicable) until it is paid to us. For flight inclusive bookings, all monies paid to any authorised travel agent of ours for your holiday with us will be held on behalf of and for the benefit of the Trustees of the Air Travel Trust subject to the travel agent’s obligation to pay such monies to us in accordance with our trading terms unless we fail. In the unlikely event of our financial failure, all monies then held by the travel agent or subsequently paid by you to the travel agent will be held by the agent on behalf of and for the benefit of the Trustees of the Air Travel Trust without any obligation on the agent to pay such monies to us. 5) INSURANCE It is a condition of booking with us that you take out insurance at the time of, or prior to, making your booking. Further information in respect of this requirement is shown in our full booking conditions. 6) ALTERATION BY YOU (a) If you wish to make any amendments to your holiday after it has been confirmed (including where you wish to transfer your place on the booking to someone else), you must inform us in writing and we will do our best to help. An amendment fee together with the costs and charges incurred as a result or, for certain alterations, cancellation charges, will be payable. Please see our full booking conditions for further information. (b) If you wish to change any aspect of your holiday after it has commenced, Cox & Kings and / or their agents will do their best to assist, subject to you being responsible for any cancellation charges that may be levied for the arrangements originally booked, for the cost of your new arrangements and for any costs incurred by Cox & Kings and / or their agents in attempting to secure or securing any revised arrangements. All such charges and costs are payable locally.
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7) PRE-DEPARTURE CHANGES TO, OR CANCELLATION OF, YOUR ARRANGEMENTS BY US OR YOUR THIRD PARTY SUPPLIER (a) This clause 7(a) applies only if your contract is with us. Occasionally, we have to make changes to and correct errors in brochure and other details both before and after bookings have been confirmed and cancel confirmed bookings, which we reserve the right to do. Most changes are minor. Occasionally, we have to make a significant change. Examples of significant and minor changes and the options and compensation (where applicable) we will offer you in the event of our having to make a significant change or cancel are shown in our full booking conditions. Exceptions to the payment of compensation apply. We are not obliged to notify you of minor changes. All group holidays with Cox & Kings require a minimum number of bookings before they will operate. If an insufficient number of people have booked to make your holiday arrangements financially viable so that we have to cancel, we will inform you no later than 8 weeks before your departure date. In this case, you will be offered the options set out above but no compensation will be payable. (b) This clause 7(b) applies if your contract is with a Third Party Supplier. If the Third Party Supplier changes or cancels your booking, we will pass on the new details to you together with any compensation that the Third Party Supplier may offer. As agent only for the Third Party Supplier we cannot accept any liability for any changes or cancellations made to these bookings. 8) POST-DEPARTURE CHANGES AND CURTAILMENT Please note, clauses 8(a) and (b) only apply where your contract is with us. (a) Changes and curtailment after departure (not caused by force majeure) If, after departure, it becomes apparent that a significant proportion of the services you have booked with us cannot be provided, we will make suitable alternative arrangements at no extra cost to you and, where appropriate, compensate you for any difference in value between the arrangements you should have received and the alternative arrangements made and for any disappointment or inconvenience you have reasonably suffered as a result as referred to in our full booking conditions. (b) Changes and curtailment after departure (caused by force majeure) If, after departure, it becomes apparent that a significant proportion of the services you have booked with us cannot be provided, we will make suitable alternative arrangements at no extra cost to you. If we are unable to do so, or you reject the alternative arrangements offered for good reasons, we will, where appropriate, return you by equivalent transport (type and class of travel) to the departure point of your holiday or such other place as we agree as soon as we are reasonably able to do so. Please refer to our full booking conditions for further details of the extent of our liability in this situation. Very rarely, we may be forced to curtail your holiday and return you to the UK (where your holiday includes return travel) before the scheduled end of your holiday. This is extremely unlikely, but if this situation does occur, we regret we will be unable to make any refunds, pay you any compensation or meet any costs or expenses you incur as a result. (c) Changes and curtailment after departure – contract with a Third Party Supplier As agent only for the Third Party Supplier, we cannot accept any liability for any changes to or curtailment of your arrangements made after departure.
INFORMATION 9) FORCE MAJEURE Except where otherwise expressly stated in these booking conditions, neither we nor any Third Party Supplier can accept liability or pay any compensation where the performance or prompt performance of our or the Third Party Supplier’s contractual obligations is prevented or affected by or you otherwise suffer any damage or loss (as more fully described in clause 13(a)(ii) of our full booking conditions) as a result of force majeure. In these booking conditions, ‘force majeure’ means any event which we / the supplier of the service(s) in question / the Third Party Supplier could not, even with all due care, foresee or avoid. Such events are likely to include, whether actual or threatened, war, riot, civil strife, terrorist activity, industrial dispute, natural or nuclear disaster, adverse weather conditions, flood, epidemics, fire, airport, port or airspace closures, restrictions or congestion, flight restrictions imposed by any regulatory authority or other third party and all similar events outside the control of the party concerned. 10) CANCELLATION BY YOU Should you wish to cancel your booking, the person who made the booking must notify Cox & Kings or your travel agent (as applicable) in writing. Such notification will only be effective on receipt by us of your written notification, since we can only act on receipt of this. Please state the reason for your cancellation as you may be covered by your insurance policy. Claims must, however, be made direct to your insurance company. The following cancellation charges will apply unless you are otherwise advised at the time of booking. For some bookings, including those for which full payment is required at the time of booking, 100% cancellation charges apply from confirmation. Where the cancellation charge is shown as a percentage, this is calculated on the basis of the total cost payable by the person(s) cancelling, excluding insurance premiums and amendment charges. Insurance premiums and amendment charges are not refundable. Days before Amount of departure cancellation charges as notification received a % of total tour cost. More than 56 days Deposit(s) (inc any additional deposit) 56- 29 days 40% or deposit(s) if higher 28-15 days 60% or deposit(s) if higher 14-8 days 75% or deposit(s) if higher 7-4 days 90% 3 days to day of departure or later 100% No allowance or refund can be made for meals, rooms, excursions etc included in the price of your tour but not taken, nor can any refund be made for services that cannot be used due to lost, mislaid or destroyed travel tickets or vouchers. Part cancellation of a booking may result in increased costs for the remaining party members. 11) PRICES Prices are based upon known costs and exchange rates as shown in our full booking conditions which can be viewed on our website at coxandkings.co.uk. For all exchange rates not mentioned, the rate of exchange for the US dollar applies. Where your contract is with Cox & Kings, once the price of your chosen holiday has been confirmed at the time of booking, we will only change it in the circumstances and subject to the safeguards set out in our full booking conditions. Where your contract is with a Third Party Supplier, as we act only as agent, we must pass on to you in full all additional costs and charges of whatever nature imposed by the Third Party Supplier in accordance with its own terms and conditions. Please note, changes and errors occasionally occur. You must check the price of your chosen holiday at the time of booking. We reserve the right to make changes to, and correct errors in, advertised prices at any time before your holiday is confirmed. Occasionally our holiday prices are discounted for a limited period for promotional purposes. Discounts
cannot be applied retrospectively to reduce the price of a confirmed booking. 12) YOUR RESPONSIBILITIES (a) Visas: General information concerning visa requirements applicable to British citizens with British citizen passports is set out in our Documents & Health section. Please also see our full booking conditions for further information. (b) Passports: British citizens require a full British passport (valid for at least six months beyond the end of your holiday) for the holidays we offer. Please see our Documents & Health section for full details or seek the advice of our travel consultants. Please note, requirements may change and you must check the up-to-date requirements in good time before departure. A full British passport presently takes approximately three to six weeks to obtain. Please also see out full booking conditions for further information. (c) Health: It is your responsibility to ensure you are aware of all recommended and required vaccinations and health precautions in good time before departure. Please also see out full booking conditions for further information. (d) Documents: It is the responsibility of the person who makes the booking to ensure that all members of the party are in possession of all necessary travel and health documents and have all necessary vaccination certificates before departure. All costs incurred in obtaining such documentation or vaccinations / certificates must be paid by you. We regret we cannot accept any liability if you are refused entry onto any transport or into any country due to failure on your part to carry correct documentation or have the correct vaccinations / certificates. Please see our full booking conditions for further information. (e) Travel advice: For up to date travel advice from the UK government, visit www.gov.uk/foreign-traveladvice which you are recommended to consult before booking and in good time before departure. 13) OUR LIABILITY This clause 13(a) does not apply where your contract is with a Third Party Supplier (a) (i) We promise to make sure that the holiday arrangements we have agreed to make, perform or provide as applicable as part of our contract with you are made, performed or provided with reasonable skill and care. This means that, subject to these booking conditions, we will accept responsibility if, for example, you suffer death or personal injury or your contracted holiday arrangements are not provided as promised or prove deficient as a result of the failure of ourselves, our employees, agents or suppliers to use reasonable skill and care in making, performing or providing, as applicable, your contracted holiday arrangements. Please note, it is your responsibility to show that reasonable skill and care has not been used if you wish to make a claim against us. In addition, we will only be responsible for what our employees, agents and suppliers do or do not do if they were at the time acting within the course of their employment (for employees) or carrying out work we had asked them to do (for agents and suppliers). (ii) We will not be responsible for any injury, illness, death, loss (including loss of possessions or enjoyment), damage, expense, cost or other sum or claim of any nature whatsoever which results from any of the following: (1) the act(s) and / or omission(s) of the person(s) affected or any member(s) of their party or (2) the act(s) and / or omission(s) of a third party not connected with the provision of your holiday and which were unforeseeable or unavoidable or (3) force majeure as defined in clause 9. (iii) We cannot accept responsibility for any services that do not form part of our contract. This includes, for example, any additional services or facilities that your hotel, cruise provider or any other supplier agrees to provide for you where the services or facilities are not advertised in our brochure or on our website as forming part of your holiday and we have not agreed to arrange them as part of our contract, and any excursion / activities you purchase while away. Please also see clause 17 “Excursions / Activities / Suppliers Terms and Conditions”. In addition, regardless of any wording used by us on
our website, in any of our brochures or elsewhere, we only promise to use reasonable skill and care as set out above and we do not have any greater or different liability to you. (iv) The promises we make to you about the services we have agreed to provide or arrange as part of our contract – and the laws and standards of the country in which your claim or complaint occurred – will be used as the basis for deciding whether the services in question had been properly provided. If the particular services that gave rise to the claim or complaint were provided in compliance with the applicable local laws and standards, the services will be treated as having been properly provided. This will be the case even if the services did not comply with the laws and standards of the UK that would have applied had those services been provided in the UK. The exception to this is where the claim or complaint concerns the absence of a safety feature that might lead a reasonable holidaymaker to refuse to take the arrangements in question. Please note, however, our obligation is to exercise reasonable skill and care as referred to in clause 13(a)(i). We do not make any representation or commitment that all services will comply with applicable local laws and standards and failure to comply does not automatically mean we have not exercised reasonable skill and care. (v) As set out in our full booking conditions we limit the maximum amount we may have to pay you for certain claims you may make against us. (vi) Where any claim or part of a claim (including those involving death or personal injury) concerns or is based on any travel arrangements (including the process of getting on and / or off the transport concerned) provided by any air, rail or sea carrier to which any international convention or EU regulation applies, our liability (including the maximum amount of compensation we will have to pay you, the types of claim and the circumstances in which compensation will be payable) will be limited as if we were the carrier in question as referred to below. The most we will have to pay you for that claim or that part of a claim if we are found liable to you on any basis is the most the carrier concerned would have to pay under the international convention or EU regulation that applies to the travel arrangements in question (for example, the Warsaw Convention as amended or unamended and the Montreal Convention for international travel by air and / or, for airlines with an operating licence granted by an EU country, the EC Regulation on Air Carrier Liability No 889/2002 for national and international travel by air, the Athens Convention (as amended by the 2002 Protocol) and EC Regulation 392/2009 on the liability of carriers of passengers by sea in the event of accidents and the Convention concerning International Travel by Rail (COTIF) as amended for travel by rail). Where a carrier would not be obliged to make any payment to you under the applicable international convention or EU regulation (including where any claim is not notified and issued in accordance with the time limits stipulated in the applicable convention or regulation), we similarly are not obliged to make a payment to you for that claim or part of the claim. Please also note that strict time limits apply for notifying loss, damage or delay of luggage to the airline. Any proceedings in respect of any claim (including one for personal injury or death) must be brought within 2 years of the date stipulated in the applicable convention or regulation. You are not entitled to make any claim against us which concerns or is based on any travel arrangements provided by any air, rail or sea carrier if such a claim is not expressly permitted to be brought against the carrier by the international convention or regulation that applies to the travel arrangements in question. When making any payment, we are entitled to deduct any money that you have received or are entitled to receive from the carrier for the complaint or claim in question. Copies of the applicable international conventions and regulations are available from us on request. Please note, for travel by sea, EC Regulation 392/2009 and the Athens Convention as amended (together referred to as the Athens
Find out more at coxandkings.co.uk or from your travel agent
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INFORMATION Convention) limits the maximum amount the carrier has to pay if found liable in the event of death or personal injury. EC Regulation 392/2009 and The Athens Convention also limits the maximum amount the carrier has to pay if found liable in the event of loss or damage to luggage and also makes provision for valuables. Once on board ship, all valuable and important items should be deposited with the purser or in the mini-safe in your cabin if available. Please remember that no cabin mini-safe is totally secure and consider whether you need to bring such items on holiday with you. Placing items in a mini-safe is not depositing them with the carrier for safekeeping for the purposes of the Athens Convention. We and the carrier cannot accept any responsibility or liability for any valuable or important items which are not deposited with the purser for safekeeping. For items which are deposited with the purser for safekeeping, the maximum the carrier would have to pay you if found liable for any item(s) lost or damaged (for any reason) while deposited is the maximum which is payable under the Athens Convention in this situation. As referred to above, we are entitled to rely on all limitations of liability available to the carrier. (vii) Please note, we cannot accept any liability for any damage, loss, expense or other sum(s) of any description (1) which on the basis of the information given to us by you concerning your booking prior to our accepting it, we could not reasonably have foreseen you would suffer or incur if we breached our contract with you or (2) which did not result from any breach of contract or other fault by ourselves or our employees or, where we are responsible for them, our suppliers. Additionally we cannot accept liability for any expenses or losses that relate to or arise from any business (including without limitation, self-employed loss of earnings). (b) Clauses 13(b) (i) and (ii) below apply only if your contract is with a Third Party Supplier. (i) As we act only as an agent for the Third Party Supplier concerned we accept no liability in relation to the arrangements provided by that Third Party Supplier or for the acts or omissions of the Third Party Supplier concerned. The terms and conditions of the Third Party Supplier will apply to your contract (copies available on request from us). (ii) However, in the event that we are found liable in respect of any Third Party Supplier arrangements on any basis whatsoever, we are entitled to rely on the limitations and exclusions of liability and defences set out in clause 13(a). We do not exclude or limit any liability for death or personal injury that arises as a result of our negligence or that of our employees while acting in the course of their employment. 14) TRANSPORTATION (INCLUDING DELAY) (a) Air, rail, road and other departure times are supplied by the carriers. Please see our full booking conditions for details of our responsibility in the event of delay. (b) In accordance with EU Directive (EC) No 2111/2005, we are required to bring to your attention the existence of a ‘Community list’ that contains details of air carriers that are subject to an operating ban within the EU Community. The Community list is available for inspection at http:// ec.europa.eu/transport/air-ban/list_en.htm We are also required to advise you of the carrier(s) (or, if the carrier(s) is not known, the likely carrier(s)) that will operate your flight(s) at the time of booking. Where we are only able to inform you of the likely carrier(s) at the time of booking, we shall inform you of the identity of the actual carrier(s) as soon as we become aware of this. Any change to the operating carrier(s) after your booking has been confirmed will be notified to you as soon as possible. For information on flight timings, please see our full booking conditions. (c) If your flight is cancelled or delayed, your flight ticket is downgraded or boarding is denied by your airline, depending on the circumstances, the airline may be required to pay you compensation, refund the cost of your flight and / or provide you with accommodation and / or refreshments under EC Regulation No 261/2004 – the Denied Boarding
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Regulations 2004. Please see our full booking conditions for further information. 15) COMPLAINTS AND PROBLEMS If you have a complaint about any of the holiday arrangements booked with or through Cox & Kings, you must follow the complaint procedure set out in our full booking conditions. 16) ARBITRATION A choice of two arbitration schemes are available in the event that you have a compliant or claim against Cox & Kings which cannot be resolved. Please see our full booking conditions for further information. 17) EXCURSIONS / ACTIVITIES / SUPPLIERS TERMS AND CONDITIONS (a) Please see our full booking conditions for details of our liability for the excursions and activities which you may be offered. (b) Many of the services that make up your holiday are provided by independent suppliers. Those suppliers provide these services in accordance with their own terms and conditions. Some of these terms and conditions may limit or exclude the supplier’s liability to you, usually in accordance with applicable international conventions (see clause 13(a)(vi)). Copies of the relevant parts of these terms and conditions are available on request from ourselves or the supplier concerned. 18) FINANCIAL SECURITY We are a member of ABTA (ABTA number V2999). We also hold an Air Travel Organiser’s Licence issued by the Civil Aviation Authority (ATOL number 2815.) When you buy an ATOL protected flight or flight inclusive holiday from us*, you will receive an ATOL Certificate. This lists what is financially protected, where you can get information on what this means for you and who to contact if things go wrong. We, or the suppliers identified on your ATOL Certificate, will provide you with the services listed on the ATOL Certificate (or a suitable alternative). In some cases, where neither we nor the supplier are able to do so for reasons of insolvency, an alternative ATOL holder may provide you with services you have bought or a suitable alternative (at no extra cost to you). You agree to accept that in those circumstances the alternative ATOL holder will perform those obligations and you agree to pay any money outstanding to be paid by you under your contract to that alternative ATOL holder. However, you also agree that in some cases it will not be possible to appoint an alternative ATOL holder, in which case you will be entitled to make a claim under the ATOL scheme (or your credit card issuer where applicable). If we, or the suppliers identified on your ATOL certificate, are unable to provide the services listed (or a suitable alternative, through an alternative ATOL holder or otherwise) for reasons of insolvency, the Trustees of the Air Travel Trust may make a payment to (or confer a benefit on) you under the ATOL scheme. You agree that in return for such a payment or benefit, you assign absolutely to those Trustees any claims which you have or may have arising out of or relating to the non-provision of the services, including any claim against us, the travel agent or your credit card issuer where applicable. You also agree that any such claims may be re-assigned to another body, if that other body has paid sums you have claimed under the ATOL scheme.*The air inclusive holidays and flights we arrange are ATOLprotected providing they are made available in the UK. For further information, visit the ATOL website at: www.atol.org.uk. The price of our air holiday packages includes the amount of £2.50 per person which is the ATOL Protection Contribution (APC) we pay to the CAA. This charge is included in our advertised prices. For further information, visit the ATOL website at: www.atol.org. uk. If you have a contract with us for arrangements that do not include a flight(s), Abta will financially protect your holiday in the event of our insolvency by arranging for you to receive a refund or to be repatriated except where your contracted arrangements with us do not include transport to and from the UK. In this case, if already abroad, you will be returned to the point where your contracted arrangements with us commenced. Please go to www.abta.com for information on
Contact us on 020 7808 6786 or [email protected]
Abta’s travel protection. Please note, our ATOL and Abta membership does not protect bookings where we act only as agent. 19) LAW AND JURISDICTION Your relationship (and any contract you may have) with Cox & Kings or with any Third Party Supplier and any dispute, claim or other matters of any nature arising from it (‘claim’) shall be governed by and construed in accordance with English law. We both agree that any claim (and whether or not involving any personal injury) that arises between us must be dealt with under the Abta or Aito arbitration schemes (if the scheme is available for the claim in question and you wish to use it – see clause 16) or by the Courts of England and Wales only unless, in the case of Court proceedings, you live in Scotland or Northern Ireland. In this case, proceedings must either be brought in the Courts of your home country or those of England and Wales. If proceedings are brought in Scotland or Northern Ireland, you may choose to have your contract and any dispute, claim or other matter of any description that arises between us governed by the law of Scotland/Northern Ireland as applicable (but if you do not so choose, English law will apply). DATE OF ISSUE AUGUST 2016 DATA PROTECTION PRIVACY POLICY For the purposes of the Data Protection Act 1998, we are a data controller. The following is a summary of our full privacy policy, which sets out how we collect and use the personal information (‘personal data’) you provide us with directly or through use of our website. Our full, current privacy policy appears on our website, which you should read before providing us with any personal data. Appropriate personal data will be passed on to relevant suppliers / any Third Party Supplier / any other third party (including banks and / or credit card issuers) who need to know it so that your holiday can be provided, to government / public authorities (UK and overseas) such as the police, customs or immigration if required by them, to security or credit checking companies, to other companies who provide services on our behalf (such as mailing brochures and marketing material) or as required by law. We take steps to protect the personal data that is provided to any such party. In making your booking, you consent to personal data being passed on to the relevant parties. Your personal data may be stored, used and otherwise processed within the UK and / or any other country / countries of the European Economic Area (EEA) and / or outside the EEA. Data protection laws may not be as strong outside the EEA as they are in the EEA. Personal data will not be transferred to a country outside the EEA unless the conditions referred to in our full privacy statement are satisfied. We would also like to store and use your personal data for future marketing purposes as referred to in our full privacy policy. We take appropriate technical and organisational measures that are intended to prevent unauthorised or unlawful processing of personal data and accidental loss or destruction of, or damage to, personal data. Our full privacy policy contains the procedure for reviewing and amending any personal data of yours we are processing. See www.coxandkings.co.uk for details.
Abta Abta and Abta members help holidaymakers to get the most from their travel and assist them when things do not go according to plan. We are obliged to maintain a high standard of service to you by Abta’s Code of Conduct. For further information about Abta, the Code of Conduct and the arbitration service available to you if you have a complaint, contact Abta, 30 Park Street, London SE1 9EQ or call 020 3117 0500 or www.abta.com. The above applies only to services supplied by Cox & Kings Travel Limited and does not apply to services featured in this brochure that are provided by any Third Party Supplier where you enter into a contract with the Third party Supplier.
INFORMATION
Travel Insurance Travel Insurance is an important part of any booking. Cox & Kings requires that everyone who books with us has travel insurance which includes cover for all activities featured as part of their trip at the time of booking. If you have not already arranged appropriate cover, our recommended travel insurance provider is Campbell Irvine Direct.
To arrange cover or to obtain a quotation, please contact Campbell Irvine Direct. You can apply for travel insurance online at: campbellirvinedirect.com/coxandkings Or call: 020 7938 1734 • Email: [email protected]
TRAVEL INSURANCE SUMMARY OF COVER (SUMS INSURED ARE PER INSURED PERSON)
BENEFIT
LIMIT
A. Medical expenses In patient benefit Criminal injuries Personal liability B. Personal accident Permanent loss of sight Loss of limb(s) Permanent total disablement Death C. Cancellation or curtailment D. Delayed departure or arrival Either compensation OR cancellation after 12 hours Hijack of aircraft £100 per day Interruption of transport E. Personal effects Temporary loss of baggage Money Tickets Passport and visas F. Legal expenses G. Winter sports
£10,000,000 £10 per day up to £200 £100 per day up to £5,000 £2,000,000 £25,000 £25,000 £25,000 £25,000 £10,000 £3,000* up to £100 up to £1,500 up to £3,000 £300 £2,000 (Valuables limited to £350) (Single article limit £250) (Disc collections £200) £100 £500 £1,000 £250 £25,000 Optional
*Cancellation cover may be increased when you apply.
IMPORTANT
This is only a summary of cover; full details of the cover provided are shown on your policy document. You will be asked to read it carefully to ensure you are happy with the cover provided which is offered on a non-advised basis from a single insurer. A copy of the policy document is available for download online at campbellirvinedirect.com/coxandkings. The policy contains a 14-day cooling off period and details of how to make a claim and who to contact in the event of a medical emergency. The policy includes certain terms and conditions, exclusions and excesses. In particular cover is excluded for any defined pre-existing medical condition from which you or any person upon whom travel depends are suffering. If in doubt please contact the insurer's medical helpline as additional cover may be purchased directly from the insurer’s medical screening helpline for certain pre-existing medical conditions. An additional premium applies to any person aged 66 - 69 years at the date of payment of the insurance premium. The appropriate premium will be quoted on application. This insurance is not available to any person aged 70 years or more at the date of payment of insurance premium unless agreed in writing. If you are aged 70 or older, the charity Age UK offers a travel insurance policy. You can find details at ageuk.org.uk/products/insurance. Cox & Kings is an Introducer Appointed Representative of Campbell Irvine Ltd. who is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. This can be checked on the FCA's register by visiting the FCA's website at fca.org.uk or by contacting them on 0800 111 6787. Find out more at coxandkings.co.uk or from your travel agent
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INFORMATION
Travel in the Far East At Cox & Kings, we believe that a good holiday is not luck, but judgment. We have compiled the following information to outline the nature of travel in the Far East and to help you prepare for your holiday. However, even with the most meticulous planning, minor problems can occur and, while our local representatives are always on hand to rectify such occurrences, we do request that you have a patient and broadminded approach to travelling in the Far East.
involved for accommodation in the event of an overnight cancellation and also after your arrival at your next destination. These may be in the form of additional accommodation costs, transfers and onward travel. It is important that your travel insurance covers you against the costs incurred as a result of cancellation or delay to your flight. Unfortunately, since most services are paid for in advance, any services missed due to delays are non-refundable. We strongly advise that you are insured against such eventualities.
Flights
Flight amendments: Most of the tours shown in this brochure use special airfares. These have certain conditions, which normally restrict any change of date, route or airline. Any such change made after a ticket has been issued will normally necessitate the purchase of a new ticket at the passenger’s expense.
International flights: On most of our tours the following carriers will be used: British Airways, Thai Airways, Malaysia Airlines, Cathay Pacific, Singapore Airlines and Virgin Atlantic Airways. The name of the airline and the city of the departure and arrival airports are clearly listed in the table relating to the tour, together with the stop-off airport, should this apply. We do not print actual flight timings in our brochure but you will find full details relating to your international flights printed on your confirmation invoice. All flight times as stated on your confirmation invoice refer to local times. Some flight routings involve a change of aeroplane en route to your destination, so please take note of the flight details in your confirmation invoice as these will show you the amount of scheduled transit time in the stop-off city. Please note that all flight timings are subject to change by the airline. It is important to note the difference between a ‘direct’ flight and a ‘non-stop’ flight. Non-stop flights do not have any scheduled touchdowns en route while direct flights mean that there is no change of aircraft but that stops are possible, and indeed probable, as per the airline’s timetables. Unfortunately airlines change their schedules regularly, and although we will advise you of any stops or aeroplane changes at the time of booking, we cannot be held responsible for any changes after this date. Baggage allowances vary according to the destination, flight and class booked, although in the majority of cases, the allowance for Economy is 20kg, Business is 30kg and First is 40kg. When booking Business Class international flights, please check with your consultant the baggage allowance for any domestic flights involved in your itinerary. Internal flights: Almost all the internal flights in this brochure use jet airliners, with some internal airliners in south-east Asia using turbo prop aircraft. Occasionally, when travelling on internal flights with local carriers or in light aircraft, it may be necessary for operators to change schedules at short notice. If this should happen, everything possible will be done to minimise the inconvenience. Such a change may cause a delay to your onward travel arrangements and require an extra night’s accommodation at your board point, or alternative travel by another airline or method of transportation may be required. Although these arrangements are at the discretion of the airline, Cox & Kings will endeavour to help in any way it can and ensure that arrangements go as smoothly as possible (see below for more details) Flight delays & insurance: Unfortunately, due to the increase in air traffic, government restrictions and changing weather conditions, flight delays have become more commonplace. These delays can cause problems with onward connections and / or hotel and holiday arrangements. While the airline will sometimes make alternative arrangements to get you to your next destination at no extra cost, additional costs may well be
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Special requests: Cox & Kings will endeavour to request any specific meals or services on the condition that we are told at the time of booking. Specific seat requests with most major airlines can now only be requested if travelling in Business or First Class. We are able to request general seating preferences for Economy Class passengers. With all special requests, please remember that they are ‘requests’ and as such are at the discretion of the airline and cannot be guaranteed. Airport departure taxes: International UK departure tax is included in the cost of your holiday (unless otherwise stated), when you buy your ticket from Cox & Kings. The cost of our tours does not always include other airport departure taxes or overland departure taxes. Occasionally, taxes may be included in your ticket and we will advise you accordingly. Since there is no standard charge between countries, and taxes are subject to change, it is not possible to list the taxes in this brochure. We will advise you of the current charge with your final documents and our local agents will confirm the amount payable on arrival. Please ensure you keep enough local currency or US dollars to cover these taxes.
Road Travel
In China, the majority of the roads to and from major tourist destinations are sealed and in reasonable condition. Although many of the city roads are now four- to six-lane highways and have had a large amount of investment in recent years, many of the narrower ones and smaller highways are bumpy and pot-holed. Driving rules and regulations are very complicated and it is currently not possible to hire cars to travel outside the major cities within China, and not recommended within the cities. In Mongolia, Indonesia, Vietnam, the Philippines and Cambodia, many of the roads are in poor condition but most of the main highways are sealed. For longer journeys, we will nearly always advise you to fly. Types of vehicles vary according to the country visited and the numbers on a tour. Generally, the following can be used as a guideline for the size of transportation provided: 1-3 passengers, saloon car; 4-6 passengers, minivan; 6-19 passengers, small bus; 20-28 passengers, medium bus.
Early Starts
A number of flights within China and the Far East arrive / depart early in the morning and, while we will endeavour to schedule your tour with a flight that arrives / departs at a reasonable time, sometimes there is little or no alternative and early check-in / check-out times may be required.
Contact us on 020 7808 6786 or [email protected]
Accommodation
Accommodation standards vary dramatically throughout the Far East; however, in most of the major cities the hotels are of a good standard. Standards will vary much more in some of the smaller cities and rural areas. For our tours in the Far East, we have chosen hotels primarily for their location and the facilities available. We will endeavour to supply any extra information that you may require on these hotels. The hotels listed in the tour itineraries may occasionally be unavailable for the required dates. In this event, we will advise you of alternative hotels that will, where possible, be of the same or of a higher standard than those featured in the itineraries. There are many new hotels being built in the Far East and we may upgrade those featured in the brochure if better options in the same category become available. In Mongolia, we use traditional tents, known as gers. Please note, all rooms reserved on your tour are standard; however, if you wish to upgrade your room (eg to a lake view or suite), please speak to your consultant who will be able to advise about options and applicable supplements. Check-in & check-out times: For all group and individual tours, hotel check-in time is normally 14:00 and check-out time is normally 12:00, but this does vary between hotels. Early check in and late check out cannot be pre-booked without extra payment. Single accommodation: Often the location and standard of single rooms may not be as good as that of doubles. If you are in doubt, we suggest you request a double room at an additional supplement. If you are unhappy with your room while on holiday, please ensure that you query this with a Cox & Kings representative at the time. In the absence of a Cox & Kings representative, we advise you to discuss the matter with the hotel manager.
Walking
Many of the sites in the Far East necessitate a reasonable amount of walking, either to the site or around it. While the walking is normally easy going, a full day’s sightseeing can be quite tiring and sometimes strenuous. In addition, at the Great Wall in China there are many steep sections and uneven surfaces. Travel in Mongolia involves a fair amount of walking and it can be of a strenuous nature. A reasonable amount of fitness is required.
Cruises
Cruise boats may vary their itineraries with little or no notice if water levels become unusually low or to avoid areas of dense traffic. Such changes are generally very rare but you should check the final itinerary at reception when you embark. Cruise itineraries include full board but all drinks will be charged as extras.
Foreign & Commonwealth Office Travel Advice
The Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) produces a wide range of material about overseas countries that may be visited by British citizens to ensure that travellers are properly informed about any overseas destination, particularly in relation to political unrest, crime and health issues. Where the FCO considers that British citizens would face unjustifiable risks to health, it actually advises either against travelling to the country in question or against non-essential travel to that country. Full details of all FCO advice can be obtained on the FCO website: gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice.
INFORMATION
Documents & Health Health & Entry Requirements
All the destinations featured in this brochure have specific entry regulations and many have recommended health precautions. The requirements and recommendations in force at the time of publication are detailed below. If there are any alterations, you will be informed at the time of booking or as soon as these are known to us. However, it is your responsibility to check the relevant requirements and recommendations before departure to ensure that you comply with them, and to take with you the correct documentation for the country or countries that you are visiting. Please note that the entry requirements listed are only valid for British citizens. All other nationalities should check with the relevant embassy / consulate for advice. Regarding any inoculations or health precautions that may be needed, Cox & Kings recommends that you consult your GP or travel clinic for personal advice. Requirements and recommendations are as follows: Burma (Myanmar): ABC†DEFGHIJK Cambodia: AB*C†DEFGIK China: ABC†DEFGHIK Hong Kong: AEGIK Indonesia: AC*DEFGHIJK Japan: AGHK Laos: AB*C*DEFGHIJK Malaysia: AC†DEFGHIJK Mongolia: ABEGHIK Papua New Guinea: AB*DEFGHIJK Philippines: AC†DEFGHIJK Singapore: AC†GIK South Korea: AEFGIK Taiwan: AEGHIK Thailand: AC*DEFGHIJK Vietnam: ABC†DEFGHIJK Key to the codes: A: Full valid British passport required (minimum six months validity from the intended date of return). B: Visa required (see note). B*: Visa required and can be obtained on arrival, please check requirements with your tour consultant. Visa required, to be completed online. B†: C: Yellow fever precautions advised. C*: A yellow fever certificate is required if travelling from an infected country. C†: A yellow fever certificate is required for all travellers more than one year old when travelling from an infected country. D: Cholera precautions advised. E: Typhoid, polio, rabies and hepatitis A precautions may be advised. F: Malaria precautions advised. G: Tetanus precautions advised. H: Areas of high altitude – check with your GP for confirmation that it is safe for you to visit. I: Food and drink precautions advised. J: Diphtheria precautions advised. K: Hepatitis B precautions advised. Changes to requirements and recommendations: The above information is accurate at the time of writing (June 2016). Cox & Kings will advise you before accepting your booking should there be any subsequent changes to the above recommendations and requirements. You should contact your GP or visit the Masta (Medical
Advice Service for Travellers Abroad) website at www.masta-travel-health.com where you can receive professional advice as well as arrange any vaccinations. Further country-specific useful health advice for travellers can be found via: •fitfortravel.nhs.uk •gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice
General Health Advice
Please see the advice regarding inoculations for specific countries above. For more general advice, please note the following: • Drink only bottled water and check the seal is secure when you receive it. • Do not eat raw vegetables, unpeeled fruit and raw or uncooked seafood. • Avoid drinks with ice in unless you know that the ice was made from filtered water. • Avoid food and drink from street vendors and restaurants that might have suspect refrigeration and sanitary practices.
High Altitude
Please check with your tour consultant as to which areas are at high altitude. In order to minimise the effects of altitude, it is advisable to rest for a few hours upon arrival. If you have any history of heart complaints or if you are over the age of 60, please check with your GP that it is safe to visit these areas.
Malaria
Malaria is a risk in certain parts of China (particularly in rural areas in the southern provinces of Yunnan, Hainan and Tibet), parts of Bhutan, Indonesia, North Korea, Taiwan, Malaysia, Cambodia, Laos, Vietnam, Burma and certain parts of Thailand (the border areas near Cambodia and Burma). In other areas, the risk is so low that anti-malarial prophylactics are not advised; however, it is advisable to take precautions to prevent mosquito bites. Please check with your doctor on the current precautions advised.
Passports & Embassies
This advice is only valid for British citizen passport holders. Holders of any other type of British passport (eg British subjects) or of any other nationality must contact the relevant embassy / consulate (details listed below). It is important that you hold a valid 10-year British passport and we recommend that your passport is valid for a minimum of six months from your date of return to the UK. Passport application forms can be obtained from the post office or online at gov.uk/browse/abroad/passports. The passport advice telephone line is on 0300 222 0000 (calls are charged at national rate). Whether renewing your passport or applying for a new one, all relevant information can be found on the website or by telephoning the number above. The cost for a postal application is £72.50 and takes a minimum of three weeks to obtain from the date of application. Fast track passports of either 1 day or 1 week are also available at a higher cost. Information on visas may be obtained from the respective embassies and high commissions at the following addresses: • Embassy of the Union of Myanmar (Burma), 19 Charles Street, London W1J 5DX. Tel: 020 7148 0740.
• Royal Embassy of Cambodia, 64 Brondesbury Park, Willesden Green, London NW6 7AT. Tel: 020 8451 7850. • Chinese Visa Application Service Centre, 12 Old Jewry, London EC2R 8DU. Tel: 020 7776 7888. • Indonesian Embassy Consular Section, 38 Grosvenor Square, London W1K 2HW. Tel: 020 7499 7661. • The Consulate General of Japan, 101-104 Piccadilly, London W1J 7JT. Tel: 020 7465 6500. • E mbassy of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic, 49 Porchester Terrace, London W2 3TS. Tel: 020 7402 3770. • Malaysian High Commission, 45 Belgrave Square, London SW1X 8QT. Tel: 020 7235 8033. • Mongolian Embassy, 7 Kensington Court, London W8 5DL. Tel: 020 7937 5238. • Papua New Guinea High Commission, 14 Waterloo Place, London SW1Y 4AR. Tel: 020 7930 0922. • The Philippine Embassy 6-8 Suffolk St, London SW1Y 4HG. Tel 020 7451 1780. • Singapore High Commission, 9 Wilton Crescent, Belgravia, London SW1X 8SP. Tel: 020 7235 8315. • Embassy of the Republic of Korea, 60 Buckingham Gate, London SW1E 6AJ. Tel: 020 7227 5500. • Taipei Representative Office in the UK, 50 Grosvenor Gardens, London SW1W 0EB. Tel: 020 7881 2650. • Royal Thai Embassy, 29-30 Queens Gate, London SW7 5JB. Tel: 020 7589 2944. • Embassy of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam (Consular Section), 12-14 Victoria Road, London W8 5RD. Tel: 020 7937 1912.
Visas
Cox & Kings works with Visa Swift, a company that specialises in visa processing. Please visit its website to download visa application forms, follow links to important embassy websites or make general enquiries about its visa service. Visa Swift also offers a full range of passport services, including passport renewals, second passports and replacement passports. The benefits of using Visa Swift include: • Professional visa advice for any destination • Easy to follow, step-by-step process • Quick and efficient service • Visa application tracking system available online Please call 020 7405 1616 for more details, or visit visaswift.com/coxandkings.aspx. Granting visas: Visa Swift will be happy to assist with any necessary visa applications on your behalf. However, it cannot guarantee the granting of any visas, as this is a matter outside their control. If a visa is not granted through no fault of Visa Swift or Cox & Kings, neither will accept any liability for the consequences. Therefore Visa Swift and Cox & Kings reserve the right to pass on to you any costs incurred as a result, including cancellation charges. Vietnam: At the time of writing, no visa is required for Vietnam. However this is subject to change. Please check with your travel consultant for further details.
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INFORMATION
Flying in Style Your choice of scheduled airlines: It is Cox & Kings’ policy to use scheduled flights on airlines with strong reputations for service, reliability and punctuality. Our holidays to the Far East feature a number of world-class airlines and on these pages we have highlighted six of the best, as well as the different services they offer.
Stretch out: On long-haul flights, a little extra room can make a big difference to your comfort, so Cox & Kings offers a range of upgrade options at great prices.
Regional connections: Cox & Kings offers excellent add-on prices for those wishing to connect to long-haul flights from regional UK airports.
In addition, the faster check in and comfortable lounges available to most upgrading passengers allow you to pass through the airport with ease.
For further information, please either refer to the table beside the price grid applicable to your tour or contact Cox & Kings.
British Airways flies from London Heathrow nonstop to Beijing, Shanghai, Chengdu, Hong Kong, Tokyo, Seoul, Bangkok, Singapore and Kuala Lumpur. You can check in at the check-in kiosk at the airport, or alternatively online or by using the British Airways app, printing or downloading your boarding pass and taking your baggage directly to the Bag Drop desk.
Club World benefits: Club World customers benefit from dedicated check-in desks, departure and arrival lounges, as well as complimentary treatments in the Elemis Travel Spa*. Club World features a seat that converts into a 183cm (6ft) fully flat bed; 31cm (12.1in) personal in-flight entertainment screen; excellent local and international cuisine is served along with fine wines and beverages; and snacks and beverages are available from the Club Kitchen. Upgrade from £2,795 per person return.
Thai Airways International operates twice daily between London Heathrow and Bangkok, with onward connections throughout Thailand and Asia.
World Traveller benefits: A 79cm (31in) seat pitch with lumbar support, footrest and adjustable headrest; 23cm (8.9in) personal television screen with audio video on demand, offering access to 200 film, television and music channels; and three-course meals with complimentary bar service.
World Traveller Plus benefits: A smaller cabin for more privacy; a 97cm (38in) seat pitch; wider seat with adjustable headrest, leg rest, footrest and lumbar support, offering more personal space than World Traveller; 27cm (10.6in) personal in-flight entertainment screen; and enhanced choice of meals served on china crockery with complimentary bar service. Upgrade from £560 per person return.
First benefits: First customers benefit from dedicated check-in desks, departure and arrival lounges and complimentary treatments in the Elemis Travel Spa*. Your personal suite on board creates a private environment with a seat that converts into a 198cm (6ft 6in) flat bed and a 39cm (15.4in) personal in-flight entertainment screen. Turndown service includes a duvet, pillows and pyjamas; pre-flight dining is available at London Heathrow; on board, choose from a formal à la carte menu or an informal dining option, accompanied by the finest wines and champagnes. Upgrade from £3,895 per person return.
Royal Silk Class benefits: Separate check in and access to lounges; 188cm (74in) seat pitch which converts to a flat-bed between London Heathrow and Bangkok; 38cm (15in) personal television screen with audio video on demand; choice of Thai and continental meals including champagne, handpicked wines and fine spirits. Upgrade from £1,995 per person return. Royal First Class benefits: Separate check in and access to lounges; 211cm (83in) seat pitch which converts into 244cm (8ft) fully flat bed; and gourmet cuisine served with the finest wines and champagnes; open complimentary bar on A380. Upgrade from £3,395 per person return.
* Elemis Travel Spa: Available at London Heathrow Terminal 5. Cabin design elements may vary by aircraft.
World Traveller Plus, British Airways
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Economy Class benefits: An 81cm (32in) seat pitch; 27cm (10.6in) personal television screen with audio video on demand; and a choice of Thai or continental meals with complimentary wine and spirits.
Contact us on 020 7808 6786 or [email protected]
Club World, British Airways
Royal Silk Class, Thai Airways
INFORMATION
Emirates operate 19 daily flights to Dubai from the UK. There are onward connections to Beijing, Shanghai, Hong Kong, Taipei, Manila, Osaka, Seoul, Bangkok, Phuket, Kuala Lumpur and Singapore. Economy Class benefits: Up to 84cm (33in) seat pitch with adjustable headrests; 27cm (10.6in) personal television screen with more than 2,500 channels of on-demand in-flight entertainment; and multi-course meals with full complimentary bar service. Business Class benefits: Complimentary airport chauffeur-drive service (distance restrictions apply); priority check in and exclusive airport lounge access; lie-flat beds with up to 201cm (6ft 7in) pitch; up to 43cm (17in) personal digital television screen; and multicourse gourmet cuisine served with awardwinning wines. Upgrade from £2,595 per person return.
Cathay Pacific operates five daily flights from London Heathrow, four weekly flights from Manchester and, from 2 September 2016, will operate four weekly flights from London Gatwick non-stop to Hong Kong where you can connect with ease to over 180 destinations worldwide, with more than 60 destinations in Asia. Economy Class benefits: Seat’s cradle mechanism, enabling you to recline without intruding on those seated behind you; 81cm (32in) seat pitch with adjustable headrest; 23cm (9in) personal television with audio video on demand, offering 450 free channels; choice of meals with complimentary bar and snack service. Premium Economy Class benefits: Available on the Hong Kong route. Separate check in; a quiet cabin with a maximum of 34 seats; a 97cm (38in) seat pitch with a 20cm (8in) recline; adjustable headrest and footrest; large table; personal 27cm (10.6in) television; upgraded choice of meals; and complimentary bar service. Upgrade from £1,255 per person return.
CMYK
VIETNAM AIRLINES HORIZONTAL N° dossier : 20141333E Date : 20/08/14 AC/DC validation : Client validation :
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PMS
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P308C
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28
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P10127C
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80
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P7407C
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Metallic
Economy Class benefits: Up to an 81cm (32in) seat pitch; 27cm (10.6in) personal television screen with audio video on demand; and a choice of Vietnamese or Asian meals with complimentary bar service.
Economy Class benefits: A 81cm (32in) seat pitch with adjustable headrest and ergonomically designed seats; 27cm (10.6in) personal television screen with more than 1,500 channels of on-demand in-flight entertainment; choice of three meals with complimentary bar service. Premium Economy Class benefits: A dedicated cabin featuring seats with a 97cm (38in) seat pitch; 34cm (13.3in) personal television screen; enhanced meal service; priority check in; and 35kg baggage allowance. Upgrade from £995 per person return. (Note: This service is currently on three of the daily services and will be gradually rolled out on the remaining two through the remainder of 2016 and early 2017) Business Class benefits: Separate check in and access to lounges; seats that convert into 193cm (6ft 4in) fully flat beds; personal 40cm (16in) television screen; gourmet cuisine along with fine wines, with the opportunity to preorder your meal in advance. Upgrade from £3,165 per person return. Suites / First Class benefits: Separate check in and access to lounges; the A380 has private suites with doors, a leather seat and a separate 198cm (6ft 6in) fully flat bed; the Boeing 777 First Class cabin has seats that convert into a 198cm (6ft 6in) fully flat bed; sleeper suits and slippers are provided; personal 58cm (23in) television screen; gourmet cuisine along with fine wines and champagnes. Upgrade from £6,595 per person return.
Business Class, Emirates
Vietnam Airlines flies from London Heathrow to Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) with many onward connections within Indochina. The 787-9 Dreamliner offers larger windows, more spacious cabins and higher air quality and lighting effects that work to combat jet lag.
Singapore Airlines, the worlds most awarded airline, operates four daily flights from London Heathrow and one daily flight from Manchester to Singapore with convenient onward connections to Asia.
Premium Economy, Cathay Pacific
Business Class benefits: Separate check in; exclusive airport lounge access; seats with a width of 60cm (24in) that convert into a 198cm (6ft 6in) flat bed; personal 39cm (15in) television with noise cancelling headset; a personal cabinet; silver-service trolley with fourcourse meals accompanied by fine wines and champagnes. Upgrade from £3,195 per person return.
Deluxe Economy Class benefits: A quieter cabin with a maximum of 35 seats; a 106 cm (42in) seat pitch with an 18cm (7in) recline and leg support; personal 27cm (10.6in) television screen and a choice of Vietnamese or Asian meals with complimentary bar service. Upgrade from £875 per person return. Business Class benefits: Separate check in with exclusive airport lounge access; a 112 cm (44in) seat pitch that converts into a fully flat bed; personal 39cm (15.4in) television screen with noise cancelling headset; a personal cabinet; à la carte meals with fine wines and champagnes. Upgrade from £2,460 per person return.
Business Class, Cathay Pacific
Business Class, Singapore Airlines
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INFORMATION
Cox & Kings Holidays Explained Accommodation Ratings The properties displayed on the accommodation pages in this brochure and on our website are each given one of the following six ratings, listed in order of comfort: Exceptional: Truly exclusive and exceptionally luxurious. Luxury: Very high class accommodation with superb facilities and service. Superior: High standard accommodation, service and facilities. Good Standard: Good standard accommodation, service and facilities. Simple: Clean and comfortable with en suite bathrooms, but limited facilities. Basic: Very modest, typically with shared bathrooms and minimal facilities. Due to space restrictions this brochure only features a limited selection of the hotels we offer. Please visit coxandkings.co.uk to see our full range of hotels. Fisherman, Inle Lake
Prices
Private Travel
We go to great lengths to ensure that our group and private tours represent excellent value for money, taking into account the quality of accommodation and the services included.
Private travel refers to trips taken independently and includes both set itineraries and tailor-made holidays. Almost all our group tours can be taken on a private basis and some itineraries are available for private travel only. The private tours and suggested itineraries listed in this brochure are suggestions to demonstrate how multiple places can be connected together, giving an idea of how long you might like to spend in each place and also a guideline price. All our itineraries can be tailored to suit your particular requirements.
The pricing for all our tours to the Far East includes the international airfare from the UK. However, in an era when airlines regularly change their fares due to fuel costs and other factors, the cost of a tour can change after the publication of our brochures. Therefore, in this brochure all our prices are guideline prices. For each tour we publish a lead-in price for the low season, which is indicative of the lowest price at which the tour is available, and the lead-in price for the high season. In some cases the prices for peak season departures, over the Christmas period for example, may be significantly higher than the guideline high season price. For group tours, to see more up to date pricing for a specific departure date, please visit our website at coxandkings.co.uk. Important: For both group and private tours, please contact one of our tour consultants for an accurate price quote for a specific departure date.
Escorted Group Tours To enhance your enjoyment of the tour, we like to keep our groups small and manageable. Therefore, numbers are normally restricted to a maximum of 26 people. This brochure includes three types of group tour. The majority are general interest tours, most of which are operated by Cox & Kings for Cox & Kings clients. Where tours are labelled non-exclusive group tours, they are not operated by Cox & Kings and the participants may not all be Cox & Kings clients. The second type of tours, which are labelled Solo Travellers, are specifically for individuals, as opposed to couples. There are four categories of group tour: Luxury, Superior, Standard and Discovery. Please see page 6 for a detailed explanation about the different types and categories of tour, and all other aspects of our group tour programme.
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Contact us on 020 7808 6786 or [email protected]
Private travel in Japan, South Korea & Taiwan: Due to the very high cost of private guides and drivers in Japan, South Korea and Taiwan, Cox & Kings group tours on a private basis do not always include private transfers or sightseeing excursions in these countries. Instead, excursions for private visitors to Japan, South Korea and Taiwan may be on a ‘seat-in-coach’ basis, along with other visitors, not necessarily booked through Cox & Kings. On arrival in Japan, visitors may not be met at the airport, but they will be given instructions for where to meet the regular shuttle bus to their hotel or shown to the platform for their train to a railway station in the city. If a taxi journey is required from the station to the hotel, the holiday cost would normally include the taxi fare or the approximate fare will be advised. If you would like the services of private guides and drivers in these destinations, and you are prepared for the high costs involved, it is recommended that you book a tailormade holiday. Please see page 7 for a detailed explanation about private travel with Cox & Kings, including an explanation of our accommodation ratings.
Cruises & Rail Journeys Tours are labelled as cruise or rail journey if the core content of the itinerary is by boat or train, including staying on board at night. In such cases, while the sections of the itinerary before and after the cruise or rail journey would operate as private travel, the days during the cruise or rail journey and the relevant transfers and excursions may be operated on a group basis with other passengers who may not be Cox & Kings clients.
INFORMATION
Upgrades & Supplements Regional air connections: Most Cox & Kings holidays are based on flights from London Heathrow or Gatwick and in most cases it is possible to connect with those flights from regional British airports for a small supplement. Please ask your tour consultant for details. Flight upgrades: For those wishing to fly in greater comfort, Cox & Kings can offer favourable prices for upgrading to Premium Economy, Business and First Class. Guideline prices for these upgrade supplements are included on the tour page. Please contact your tour consultant for a price quote based on your specific date of departure. The Flying in Style section on pages 158-159 contains more information about the different premium classes on the airlines we most commonly use. Room upgrades: On both group tours and private holidays there may be opportunities to upgrade to a higher standard of room in many hotels. Please ask your Cox & Kings tour consultant to explain the upgrade options to you and provide you with a price quote. Single room supplements: If you are a single traveller joining a group tour there will generally be a supplementary charge. This is because hotels typically charge more per person for single occupancy as the cost of maintaining a room for one person can be almost as high as it is for two. Some of the group tours in this brochure are dedicated Solo Travellers tours, for which the prices include single occupancy of a double / twin room, so there is no additional supplement – please see the Group Tours section on page 6 for more information about these tours.
Land-Only Travel Although guideline prices for the tours in this brochure include the international airfare, if you would prefer to book your own flights, whether to join a group tour or for private travel, your Cox & Kings tour consultant will be happy to quote you the price for taking the tour on a land-only basis. However, before booking your own flights please always contact your tour consultant because there are important issues to be aware of. For example, if a tour includes internal flights there can be an impact on the cost of those flights if they are booked separately from the international flights, or on a different airline from the one mentioned in the itinerary. If booking on a group tour you would also need to be aware of the tour timings and there may be supplementary costs if you require private transfers or additional hotel nights on arrival or departure.
We strongly advise against booking flights independently of Cox & Kings for group tours as you would incur significant charges in the event that a group tour is cancelled. Finally, it is important to be aware that, if you choose to book your international flights independently of Cox & Kings, you would no longer benefit from the full Atol holiday protection provided by a packaged air and land holiday.
When to Travel Weather in the Far East is very variable through the seasons and in different regions. The opening spread of pages for each country / region includes climate information and most tour pages include detailed charts showing the average temperature and rainfall in the relevant regions throughout the year. Even greater detail – and measurements in imperial units – can be found on our website. Our expert tour consultants will also be delighted to give you detailed advice about the likely conditions at different times of year. The Far East is also well known for its festivals. If you are interested in visiting during a particular celebration, please contact a Cox & Kings tour consultant for dates. Some Cox & Kings tours have special festival departures and these are highlighted on the tour page.
Mobility & Accessibility Many Cox & Kings tours visit places that require quite a lot of walking. In the case of historical / archaeological sites in particular, surfaces can be uneven and there may be a lot of steps. If you have any concerns about how strenuous a particular itinerary may be, please speak to one of our expert tour consultants prior to booking to get a realistic sense of what is involved.
Combining Multiple World Regions Should you wish to combine multiple regions of the world in a single journey, Cox & Kings has a great deal of experience in tailoring such travel plans, including arranging round-the-world flights. Please contact us for details of the various options and a price quotation.
Ensuring Your Enjoyment When making a booking, if you feel that there is anything Cox & Kings should know about that is essential to your enjoyment of your holiday, please ensure that we have been made aware of this, preferably in writing, at the time of booking.
Mount Fuji reflection in Lake Kawaguchi, Japan
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The Cox & Kings Benefits Expertise
Excellent Value
High Quality Service
More than 250 years of discovery: Our history, stretching back more than 250 years, gives us unrivalled experience in organising high quality travel, whether you are planning a stay in a great city or a journey into a remote wilderness.
Low price policy: We believe that expert knowledge and excellent service should come as standard. Whether the planning of your holiday takes one phone call or multiple discussions over many weeks, there is no additional cost to you for our experts’ input. It is also our policy to keep our prices as low as possible, to make high quality travel accessible to the largest number of people we can.
Services of the London office: In addition to the expertise of your personal tour consultant, Cox & Kings aims to provide the highest levels of customer care, from your initial inquiry, through to the detailed itineraries and tour notes sent to you prior to departure, and, finally, in answering any queries you may have when you return from your travels.
Dedicated team of experts: Our Far East tour consultants have all travelled extensively in the region and offer you a wealth of expert knowledge. Whether you are looking to join a set tour or take a private tailor-made journey, you can travel with the reassurance that your itinerary will have been planned by a regional specialist. The best support in the Far East: Over the years, Cox & Kings has sought out and developed working relationships with the finest local agents in the Far East. These are all companies that have a detailed knowledge of their own country, a wide network of local representatives and expert guides, an understanding of Cox & Kings’ standards and, not least, an appreciation of the expectations of those who travel with us.
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Buying power: This low price policy is made possible through our buying power, which is generated by the combined influence of the Cox & Kings group of companies worldwide. As a result, we are able to contract flights, hotels and ground services at highly competitive rates. Comparing like with like: By its nature, high quality travel is not cheap and, when planning a trip, it can seem as if there is a big difference in price between what, on the surface, are similar holidays. When comparing like with like, we are confident that our holidays represent excellent value for money when the number and quality of services included are taken into account.
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Personal service in the Far East: Whether you are part of a group or travelling independently, you will be met at each airport, train station or quay along the way, transferred to and from your hotel and have the details of your itinerary explained to you. Unless specified otherwise, Cox & Kings groups also benefit from the services of local English-speaking tour managers. Expert local guides: Cox & Kings uses the services of specially chosen local English-speaking guides who really know their subject and can bring places to life. In addition to providing relevant background information, they can also explain the local way of life, customs and issues in depth, far beyond what is covered in even the best guidebooks.
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Responsibility Atol protection: Cox & Kings is a fully bonded and licensed tour operator and the air holidays in this brochure are Atol protected by the bonding scheme administered by the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA). Our Atol number is 2815. For more information about the protection offered by the CAA, please visit caa.co.uk. Abta: Cox & Kings is a member of Abta, the Association of British Travel Agents. For more information about Abta and its members, please visit abta.com. Foreign & Commonwealth Office advice: Cox & Kings receives a great deal of information about conditions on the ground from its local representatives. However, when deciding whether particular countries or regions are safe for travel, the final decision is dependent on the guidance of the British Foreign & Commonwealth Office (FCO). If you would like to know the current travel advice for any country, you can visit gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice or call 0870 606 0290. Cox & Kings actively supports the FCO’s Know Before You Go campaign, to help you stay safe overseas. Find out more at coxandkings.co.uk/kbyg. Cool Earth: Cox & Kings supports the charity Cool Earth, which partners indigenous
communities to keep endangered rainforest standing. You too can help. Every time you travel with Cox & Kings you will be given the option of protecting a plot of rainforest and saving it from destruction. Just £60 safeguards a whole acre (4,000 sq metres) of Amazon rainforest in the Ashaninka region of Peru. For more information or to donate, please visit coolearth.org/coxandkings. Magic Bus: Cox & Kings actively supports the Magic Bus charity, set up by our former Cox & Kings colleague Matthew Spacie MBE to give street and slum children an opportunity to develop and integrate into society by learning more about themselves and their environment, through a range of sports and outdoor activities. This project is currently working with more than 250,000 children and 8,000 young adults across seven Indian states. To make a donation, please visit: magicbusindia.org. Aito: Cox & Kings is also a member of Aito, the Association of Independent Tour Operators, assuring you of Cox & Kings’ commitment to high quality service and ethical business practices. For more information about Aito and its aims, please visit aito.co.uk. 5035
Sustainable Tourism: We acknowledge the importance of Aito’s sustainable tourism ethos, which recognises the social, economic and environmental responsibilities of tour operating.
The Aito Quality Charter Aito is an association of independently minded companies specialising in particular areas or types of holiday and sharing a common dedication to high levels of quality and personal service. Aito defines quality as ‘providing a level of satisfaction which, based upon the holiday information provided by the tour operator, aims to meet or exceed a customer’s reasonable satisfaction, regardless of the type of holiday sold or the price paid’. The association encourages the highest standards in all aspects of tour operating. Exclusive membership Aito sets criteria regarding ownership, finance and quality, which must be satisfied before new companies are admitted to membership. All members are required to adhere to a Code of Business Practice that encourages high operational standards and conduct. Financial security An Aito member is required to arrange financial protection for all holidays and other arrangements (including accommodation only) booked by customers with the member under the Aito logo. This financial protection applies to customers who are resident in the UK at the time of booking and to most overseas customers who have booked directly with the member. In doing so, the member must comply with UK government regulations. Members are required to submit details of their financial protection arrangements to Aito on a regular basis. Accurate brochures and websites All members do their utmost to ensure that all their brochures and other publications, print or electronic, clearly and accurately describe the holidays and services offered. Professional service and continual improvements All members are committed to high standards of service and believe in regular and thorough training of employees. Members continually seek to review and improve their holidays. They listen to their customers and always welcome suggestions for improving standards. Monitoring standards Aito endeavours to monitor quality standards regularly. All customers should receive a post-holiday questionnaire from their tour operator, the results of which are scrutinised by the Association. In addition, customers can leave detailed feedback, directly with Aito, about their holiday. Sustainable tourism Our members acknowledge the importance of Aito’s sustainable tourism ethos, which recognises the social, economic and environmental responsibilities of tour operating. Customer relations All members endeavour to deal swiftly and fairly with any issues their customers may raise. In the unlikely event that a dispute between an Aito member and a customer cannot be settled amicably, Aito’s low-cost independent dispute settlement service may be called upon by either side to bring the matter to a speedy and acceptable conclusion.
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Cox & Kings Travel Ltd 6th Floor 30 Millbank London SW1P 4EE
Far East enquiries 020 7808 6786 General enquiries 020 7873 5000 [email protected] • coxandkings.co.uk Hours of business Mon-Fri: 09.00-18.00 • Sat: 09.30-17.00