Private Tour Highlights
- Get the best of Vietnam – from sprawling cities to pristine beaches
- Trek through the lush tropical forests of Cat Ba
- While in the Lao Cai village, get immersed in indigenous cultures
- Visit some of Thailand’s most exquisite temples
- Snorkel in the pristine translucent waters of the Thai beaches
- See bustling museums in Hanoi’s old quarter
- Hike to the summit of Fanispan for a spectacular view
- Float down traditional canals on a junk boat
- Climb the rocks on Railay beach
- Snorkel in the pristine, translucent waters of the South China Sea
Tour Overview
This adventurous tour takes you from Vietnam’s charming capital, Hanoi, to the magnificent limestone cliffs of Halong Bay and the lush tropical forests of Cat Ba Island. Take an overnight train to Lao Cai and trek through picturesque mountain villages populated with Northern Vietnam’s colourful ethnic minorities. Fly to cosmopolitan Bangkok to experience the contrasts between new and old in this pulsating metropolis. End your trip in beautiful Krabi, Thailand relaxing on sun-soaked beaches and enjoying outdoor adventures like rock climbing and kayaking.
Start this tour of South East Asia in the French colonial city of Hanoi. Founded in 1910, Hanoi is a city of lakes, parks, trees, age-old colonial mansions, and wide, bicycle filled boulevards. Visit world famous museums and explore the bustling Old Quarter where trade carries on as it did a century ago. Spend a night cruising on a traditional junk boat on Halong Bay, marvelling at the limestone cliffs as the sun sets. Trek through Cat Ba Island national park to its famous caves, and visit nearby Hai Phong to tour its remarkable architectural sites. Return to Hanoi to catch an overnight train north to Lao Cai, the gateway to Sapa, located near the Chinese border at an elevation of 1650 metres (5412 feet). In the shadow of Vietnam’s highest peak, Fansipan (3142 metres), the region holds countless trails and walks for all levels of enthusiasts and provides an introduction into the lives of the isolated communities of the north. After thoroughly experiencing the north of Vietnam, travel to Bangkok, Thailand. In this dynamic capital city, visit exquisite temples and tour the expansive system of canals aboard a traditional boat. Finally, relax in Krabi, home to some of Thailand’s most spectacular scenery, both on land and sea. Rock climb on nearby Railay Beach or snorkel in the pristine turquoise waters surrounding this magical place.
Inclusions
Round trip train fare from Hanoi to Lao Cai, One way airfare from Hanoi to Bangkok, Round trip airfare from Bangkok to Krabi, Accommodations with daily breakfast, All private transfers and activities by air-conditioned car, An English speaking guide to escort all transfers and tours, All entrance fees and activities as mentioned, Meals where specified (food only),Government tax and services charge, Local airport taxes that are payable in the country of destination are not included. Taxes and security fees that can be paid at time of ticketing are already included in the quote (if airfare has been included in the quote)
Krabi Excursions;
Ao Thalen Sea Kayaking Tour
Early this morning, you will be picked up from your hotel for a sea kayaking adventure in the mangrove forest of Ao Thalen. The area features flora and fauna that aren't easily found, some traditional local villages, and narrow channels that cut through towering cliffs. Several species of kingfishers, herons, and crab-eating macaques are almost guaranteed to be seen as you journey the mangroves, and you may have a close encounter with monkeys or macaques. Upon completing your paddling route, return to the pier, change your clothes, and enjoy lunch at a restaurant with a nice view. After lunch, transfer back to your hotel.
Rock Climbing at Railay Beach Tour
Take a boat out to Railay Beach, home of the famous rock-climbing activities. With a wide range of courses to meet all levels of climbing ability, it doesn’t matter how old, young, or unaccustomed to climbing you may be; the local instructors will find something that suits your ability and that you will enjoy climbing.
Hot Spring and Emerald Lagoon Tour
Early this morning, you will be picked up from your hotel and transferred to a hot spring where you can relax. After your dip in the hot spring, explore the surrounding lowland rainforest area for a chance to see Gurney's Pitta Bird, which was once believed to be extinct. Proceed with a walk through the rainforest to reach Emerald Lagoon. Admire the different plant and animal species you encounter along the way, and upon arrival, enjoy a swim in the clear blue-green water. Continue to a local restaurant for lunch and visit Tiger Cave Temple (Wat Tham Sua), one of the most beautiful temples in Krabi. Journey to the top of the mountain to admire the golden pagoda and beautiful views of Krabi Town and Khao Kanab Nam.
Notes:
* In Vietnam, additional supplements may apply between 19 December – 8 January
* In Thailand, additional supplements may apply between 23 December – 5 January with a set minimum of consecutive nights required for bookings between 23 – 25 December. Special conditions apply between 28 – 31 December.
* Additional supplements may apply during the weeks immediately preceding and following the Lunar (Chinese) New Year. The dates vary each year, but fall sometime between January 21st and February 20th:
2016 – Monday, February 8th
2017 – Saturday, January 28th
2018 – Friday, February 16th
* For Day 12 (Bangkok City Tour) it is recommended that for religious reasons, ladies have their shoulders covered and do not wear shorts or very short skirts. No sleeveless tops and the sleeves have to be part of the top. Gentlemen should wear trousers and short sleeved shirts. Shoes must be removed before entering the Emerald Buddha Temple.
Package Price: From £$ 11536
Prices shown above are per person. Hotel categories do not adhere strictly to international ratings; Yampu has evaluated the hotels according to destination and availability. Prices include local airfare (where applicable), hotel accommodation including daily breakfast; all transfers with baggage handling, all guided tours in English and all entrance fees.
Please note that prices are subject to change based on availability and seasonality, especially during the holiday season from December 20th through January 5th each year. Please contact a Yampu Travel Specialist for more information on best times to travel.
Trip Type:
All our trips are operated on a private basis unless specified otherwise. This is only a sample itinerary; your Yampu Tour Consultant will personalize this trip for you according to your available dates, interests and type of hotels. This is your trip and we will work on making it perfect!
Tour Itinerary
International Flight to Hanoi
Overnight international flight to Hanoi.
Overnight international flight to Hanoi.
Arrival in Hanoi
Upon arrival in Hanoi, airport reception and transfer to the hotel in a private vehicle. Depending on arrival time, spend the remainder of the day at leisure.
Upon arrival in Hanoi, airport reception and transfer to the hotel in a private vehicle. Depending on arrival time, spend the remainder of the day at leisure.
Hanoi City Highlights
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Enjoy a private tour of the Hanoi city highlights. Marvel at the tree lined streets on the way to the Opera House and pass by Hoan Kiem Lake en route to one of the city's fascinating museums of choice; the Vietnam Military History Museum, The Museum of History or the Fine Arts Museum. Continue to the Temple of Literature, built in 1070 and dedicated to Confucius, for a quick escape from the busy streets. Afterwards, enjoy a private guided walking tour of the Ancient Quarter, also known as the 36 Streets District, where a nice mix of ancient homes, temples and small shops will be found. Then, enjoy a water puppet show. ...read less
Hanoi – Ninh Binh
Leave Hanoi for Ninh Binh. Start the exploration with a leisurely bike ride (about 5km) through paddy fields to visit Dong Tam Village. Chat with the locals and take part in lunch preparation. Enjoy lunch with the family and then take a sampan ride through the But Cave Complex. Explore the dry caves as wells as the water caves. End the trip at Thung Nham Dock and drive from there to Emeralda Ninh Binh Resort. Overnight in Ninh Binh.
Leave Hanoi for Ninh Binh. Start the exploration with a leisurely bike ride (about 5km) through paddy fields to visit Dong Tam Village. Chat with the locals and take part in lunch preparation. Enjoy lunch with the family and then take a sampan ride through the But Cave Complex. Explore the dry caves as wells as the water caves. End the trip at Thung Nham Dock and drive from there to Emeralda Ninh Binh Resort. Overnight in Ninh Binh.
Visit to Cuc Phuong National Park
Depart for the Cuc Phuong National Park. On arrival, visit the Endangered Primate Rescue Center. If time permits, take an optional visit to the Cave of Prehistoric Man before having lunch at a local restaurant at the headquarters of the park. After lunch, drive to Bong Station and take a walk through the forest to see the diverse flora and fauna highlighted by a backdrop of perennial trees. The 7km trail passes through giant trees to a 1000 year old tree. Afterwards, drive back to Ninh Binh for the evening.
Depart for the Cuc Phuong National Park. On arrival, visit the Endangered Primate Rescue Center. If time permits, take an optional visit to the Cave of Prehistoric Man before having lunch at a local restaurant at the headquarters of the park. After lunch, drive to Bong Station and take a walk through the forest to see the diverse flora and fauna highlighted by a backdrop of perennial trees. The 7km trail passes through giant trees to a 1000 year old tree. Afterwards, drive back to Ninh Binh for the evening.
Ninh Binh – Hanoi
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After breakfast, drive back to Hanoi. Then, take an excursion the surrounding countryside with a private guide. Rich in Buddhism, the north of Vietnam is home to the country's most colorful and revered pagodas and temples. The Thay Pagoda (Master's Pagoda) is located 40 kilometers (25 miles) southwest of Hanoi. While a temple is a place to worship the dead, a pagoda is a place to worship the Lord Buddha. Thay Pagoda is widely known for its finely carved lacquer and gold statues of Buddha in his past and present form, as well as the colorful Buddhist ceremonies performed here during auspicious dates of the Lunar calendar. After the visit, continue to Tay Phuong Pagoda, which is situated at the top of a small hillock. Built in 1794, the pagoda is famous for its vast display of finely carved wooden statues of former monks from the 18th Century. Return to Hanoi and enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure. Lunch is included today. ...read less
Hanoi – Halong Bay
Depart Hanoi in the morning for an approximately 3.5 hour drive that winds through the beautiful countryside to Halong Bay. Upon arrival, board the boat to begin the cruise. Enjoy lunch while cruising towards Vung Vieng in Bai Tu Long. After reaching Vung Vieng, visit the floating village by traditional rowing boat. Enjoy a tea ceremony with traditional Vietnamese tea and then eat dinner while the boat is anchored for the night. Enjoy a drink or join the crew and try squid fishing. Overnight on boat.
Depart Hanoi in the morning for an approximately 3.5 hour drive that winds through the beautiful countryside to Halong Bay. Upon arrival, board the boat to begin the cruise. Enjoy lunch while cruising towards Vung Vieng in Bai Tu Long. After reaching Vung Vieng, visit the floating village by traditional rowing boat. Enjoy a tea ceremony with traditional Vietnamese tea and then eat dinner while the boat is anchored for the night. Enjoy a drink or join the crew and try squid fishing. Overnight on boat.
Halong Bay – Cat Ba Island
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Earlier risers may start the day with a Tai Chi class on the sundeck or enjoy the breathtaking views of the bay as the boat starts cruising. Breakfast will be served on board while the boat cruises in Bai Tu Long Bay. Take a guided kayaking tour in the Vung Ha area before the boat cruises towards Lan Ha Bay and Cat Ba Island. Enjoy lunch en route.
Upon arrival at Cat Bat Island, take a guided biking or walking excursion in Cat Ba National Park and visit an organic farm. Then return to the boat for a cooking demonstration and a barbeque buffet dinner. The remainder of the evening is at leisure. Overnight on boat.
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Halong Bay – Lao Cai
Take early morning Tai Chi lessons on board before visiting Sung Sot (Surprise) Cave. Afterwards, enjoy a farewell brunch and check out. Return to Hanoi and enjoy some time at leisure before transferring to the Hanoi railway station for the overnight train to Lao Cai.
Take early morning Tai Chi lessons on board before visiting Sung Sot (Surprise) Cave. Afterwards, enjoy a farewell brunch and check out. Return to Hanoi and enjoy some time at leisure before transferring to the Hanoi railway station for the overnight train to Lao Cai.
Journey to Ham Rong Mountain
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Upon arrival at the Lao Cai Station in the early morning, transfer to the hotel for breakfast. Afterwards, enjoy a privately guided walk through Sapa's colorful market and stroll down into the valley to visit the small community of Cat Cat. The H'mong that have settled here are a shy and private people, but are welcoming to visitors. A short trail leads off to a waterfall nestled in the ravine below.
Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before returning to a hotel with a private guide and transport. En route stop at Ham Rong Mountain. Then take a chance to climb up the San May (Cloud Yard) to enjoy the panorama of the town of Sapa and to visit the beautiful orchid gardens. Additionally, Ham Rong Mountain has numerous caves and stones in extraordinary shapes to explore.
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Dao, Giay and H’mong Cultural Immersion
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Enjoy a full day privately guided walk with packed lunch to Dao, Giay and H'mong settlements in the Lao Chai and Ta Van Ray districts. The walk is moderate to intermediate and descends into a scenic valley of cascading water crossed by suspension bridges. Lao Chai is a village of the Black H'mong ethnic group. Located 7 km (4 miles) from Sapa, it is quite approachable for travelers coming from Sapa who do not have much time. Once in the village, guests will be welcomed at any of the houses of the hospitable residents. Interact with them and learn about their culture and customs. Next, visit the Giay people of the Ta Van Village to further the experience with the local people.
Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant and take the van about 10km (6 miles) to Ban Ho. Take time to enjoy the picturesque scenery along the way, a mountainous area of stunning natural beauty and diverse ethnic minorities. Trek down the hill to enjoy the fantastic open views in Ban Ho, the beautiful valley where the Tay people reside. Return to Sapa in late afternoon and enjoy the evening at leisure.
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Visit to the Ta Phin Village
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Today visit the Ta Phin Village with a private guide and enjoy lunch at a local restaurant. While hiking 15 km (9 miles) to Tha Phin, see local people working in the terraced paddy fields or traveling back and forth between the market and their homes. After a long day of walking on the windy roads and hills around Sapa, soak in a traditional Red Dao herbal bath at Ta Phin. In the evening, transfer back to the Lao Cai railway station for an overnight train back to Hanoi.
Note: If this trek covers too great a distance, the route and length of the trekking to given levels of fitness. An alternative 2 km (1.2 mile) trek is available. Please ask a Yampu travel consultant for more details.
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Hanoi – Bangkok
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Arrive in Hanoi early in the morning and transfer to the airport for a flight to Bangkok. Reception at airport and transfer to the hotel.
This evening, pick and transfer from the hotel to Manohra Pier (or Saphan Taksin Pier), to board a boat for an evening cruise. Learn more about Bangkok and the Chao Phrya River, a truly magnificent waterway and one of the great rivers in Asia. The river has been a principal factor in the development of Thai heritage, culture, and economy, and is considered the nation's life and soul.
While cruising down the Chao Phrya River, enjoy a delicious Thai dinner and watch the panorama change to reveal fantastic treasures from the country's rich past, as well as fascinating modern architectural creations. The Manohra Luxury Cruise will take guests to the King Rama VIII Bridge, where the boat will turn around and head back to the pier. Upon arrival, transfer to the hotel.
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Temples of Wat Pho & Wat Arun
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After breakfast, drive to Wat Pho in time to experience the monks' morning chanting ritual. One of the oldest and most extensive temples in Bangkok, Wat Pho is home to the famous 45m Reclining Buddha. It is also the original school of traditional Thai massage. Continue from there to the Grand Palace, the most important and spectacular royal palace in Thailand. The palace is an architectural wonder of golden stupas, walls and pillars encrusted in shining and colorful mosaics. Previously the residence of the Kings of Thailand, there are multiple palaces within the complex which were used for different occasions; including the beautiful Wat Phra Kaew, which houses the most revered Buddha image in Thailand: the Emerald Buddha. Continue with a walk to the public ferry pier for a short boat ride to Wat Arun, once the grand royal temple to King Rama II.
In the early evening, head to the Chinatown neighborhood for a chance to become a Thai food insider. Embark on a behind-the-scenes adventure to indulge in the local sights and flavors of this "foodie" neighborhood. Spend the evening walking around this fascinating neighborhood and trying many Thai culinary delights. Meet the local restaurant owners, hear their memorable stories, and taste delicious samples from famous street vendors, local eateries, and fine dining restaurants.
Note: Wat Arun Temple in under renovation so guests will be able to walk around the temple, but climbing the Stupa is prohibited. Ladies should wear a short-sleeved shirt with pants or a knee-length skirt and gentlemen should wear pants and a short-sleeved shirt for religious reasons. Sandals and flip flops are not allowed.
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Cycling Tour of Bangkok
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On today's cycling tour, avoid the main streets of Bangkok and use the maze of narrow alleys, small pathways and elevated concrete cycle lanes that make Bangkok so different from other Asian capitals. Start with a visit to a local market and see the huge range of fresh produce available. A little further on, stop at the ruins of fortifications built during the Colonial Era that stopped Western countries from occupying Thailand. Then continue to the "Golden Temple". Cycle over concrete pathways through a scenic park and past orchid farms. Enjoy lunch and head to the pier where a long-tailed boat awaits to take guests on a spectacular canal trip through the southernmost district of Bangkok. Visit a small factory which produces incense sticks and stop at a typical Thai/Chinese flower farm. Head back to the hotel after the tour. ...read less
Bangkok – Krabi
Transfer to the airport for a flight to Krabi. Reception at airport and transfer to the hotel. Enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure exploring the city or relaxing on the beach.
Transfer to the airport for a flight to Krabi. Reception at airport and transfer to the hotel. Enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure exploring the city or relaxing on the beach.
Sightseeing Tour along the Krabi River
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Early this morning, stop at a local market before boarding a traditional long tailed boat for sightseeing along the Krabi River. Visit caves where stalagmites, stalactites, and bats can all be seen; and mangroves forests where monkeys, water monitors, and many other kinds of animals are also frequently sighted. Return to the pier and visit Krabi Town to do some shopping. From there, head to Tiger Cave Temple (Wat Tham Sua), one of the most beautiful temples in Krabi.
Its quiet atmosphere and beautiful plant and flower surroundings are very conducive to relaxation and meditation. There are also several big trees in the area and caves with limestone stalagmites and stalactites to explore. Then, climb the 1000+ steps to the top of the mountain to admire the golden pagoda and beautiful views of Krabi Town and Khao Kanab Nam. Then, enjoy lunch at a local restaurant and proceed to Tha Pom (Klong Song Nam). Tha Pom is a mangrove forest with a stream so clear that the bottom is clearly visible. Admire the beauty of the area while traveling along the wooden walkway through the forest, and then return to the hotel.
Note: If the Hot Spring and Emerald Lagoon Tour, Ao Thalen Sea Kayaking Tour, or Rock Climbing at Railay Beach Tour are preferred instead of the Krabi City Tour, please contact a travel consultant.
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Journey to Phi Phi Lay Island
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Early this morning, transfer to Nopparatthara Pier and board a speedboat for a 45-minute ride to Phi Phi Island, which is said to be one of the most beautiful islands in the world. This tour will go to Maya Bay, the most famous beach on Phi Phi Island, Pileh Cove, Monkey Beach, and Viking Cave. Viking Cave was renamed "Tam Phaya Nak" by H.M. King Bhumibhol when he visited the cave in 1972. Tam Phaya Nak means "the cave of Naga", the great serpent of Buddhist legend. It is a place much revered by the local people who come here to collect swifts' nests to make Bird Nest Soup, a Chinese delicacy.
Phi Phi Lay Island is composed of limestone and steep cliffs rising up from the sea. It is an excellent location for scuba diving, sightseeing, snorkeling and swimming, and there are many beautiful white sand beaches to visit. Enjoy a buffet lunch at a local restaurant on Phi Phi Don Island and then continue to Bamboo Island for more opportunities to swim and snorkel. Late this afternoon, depart from Phi Phi Island for Krabi and transfer back to the hotel to relax.
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International Flight Home via Bangkok
Depending on departure time, spend the day at leisure before transferring to the airport for a flight to Bangkok, to connect with a flight home or continue with an optional Yampu Tours add-on of choice.
Depending on departure time, spend the day at leisure before transferring to the airport for a flight to Bangkok, to connect with a flight home or continue with an optional Yampu Tours add-on of choice.
Hanoi, Vietnam
Ninh Bình Province, Vietnam
Ha Long Natural heritage
Sa Pa, Lao Cai, Vietnam
Bangkok Thailand
Krabi Thailand
Places You'll See
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Hanoi
Meaning “embraced by the river”, Hanoi is the capital of Vietnam. Visit the many temples and parks of this beautiful city, such as the Temple of Literature or Hoan Kiem Lake Park. Visit the Army Museum and hear retellings of many battles fought throughout the country’s history. Take the little ones to the Ha Noi circus for some family fun.
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Halong Bay
Halong Bay is known as one of the most beautiful bays in the world. With roughly 1,600 limestone islands, each covered in thick vegetation, it has extreme aesthetic value. Home to a small fishing community of people living on floating houses. Enjoy “junk boat” tours, or a rent a kayak and explore.
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Sapa
The charming little town of Sapa is surrounded by gorgeous mountains and rice terraces. It is also known for its rich cultural diversity. The beautiful church in the center of town, and other colonial buildings are examples of the French missionary influences. Visit the Sapa Culture Museum to learn the history of the town, as well as the traditions of the ethnic groups located there.
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Bangkok
Dubbed the “World’s Best City” by Travel + Leisure, Bangkok is home to a plethora of attractions, and activities. Enjoy a variety of shopping and dining experiences, or the city’s bustling night life. Or immerse yourself in the city’s rich culture by visiting the Grand Palace, any of the several Buddhist temples, or the Bangkok National Museum.
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Krabi
While in Krabi, Relish in the sheer beauty of the Andaman Sea by taking a tour to the famous Phi Phi Islands for swimming and snorkeling or just lazing on the beach. Take the opportunity to hang out on the beach or try some kayaking, rock climbing, island hopping or a tour of the town itself.
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Testimonials
Fritz M
Traveled February, 2013
All in all, this was a great trip
All in all, this was a great trip. I am reminded of something I read in a travel book some years ago which said Here’s what I love about travel; strangers get a chance to amaze you. In Myanmar, I found myself constantly amazed. I would love to go back and pick up the areas of the country that I missed on this trip and spend more time in the sites that I found to be particularly interesting and which required more time than I had on this trip to do them justice. I think things will begin to change rapidly in Myanmar now that liberalization has begun. I appreciate all the work Yampu staff put into developing this custom itinerary for me, and I wish all of you great success in building your business in Myanmar.
Traveled To
Rachele
Traveled April, 2016
Thank you for making our stay fun and memorable!
We had a wonderful trip! Yampu was wonderful in giving us different options to make our trip more customized to suit our needs. Our guide was also very knowledgeable and helped make our stay in Singapore fun and effortless. We all enjoyed the itinerary- not too packed with activities and everyone enjoyed the gardens, the animal safari, and city tour. The bus and vans we rode in were comfortable and the air conditioner was much welcomed in the tropic heat!
Traveled To
Lillian B
Traveled November, 2012
The vacation was wonderful.
The vacation was wonderful. My husband and I had a great time. We really enjoyed the services you had arranged. A few things really stood out to us. 1. The Tour Guide at Bangkok Tanat, I believe his name is, was the superman of accommodation. He not only fitted our wishes or demands in helpful ways, but put in extra effort in many small aspects of the trip. We were completely satisfied with his service and would recommend him to any customers. Pass on the compliment if you can. 2. The Adelphi Suites in Bangkok- Fantastic hotel. Great location, friendly staffs, clean rooms, in room internet, affordable rate. I can’t ask for better. 3. Service and Hotel in Chiang Mai. Although in comparison to what we received in Bangkok, the accommodation lacked magic sparks. But everything was to our satisfactory. The tour guide there was able to arrange for a last minute cooking class when we asked. That turned out to be an outstanding experience. 4. Phi Phi Island Spa and Resort – I cannot describe how scenic Phi Phi island is. And the resort did a wonderful job presenting it to their guests. The beach is small, but private. The view off to the ocean calms one’s soul. The staffs are friendly and helpful. The Spa service lives up to its name. The only two problems are super expensive mediocre food and mosquito breeding ground. But we were able to overlook them. It was a nice get away from the cities’ hustle and bustle. Thanks for making our trip memorable. I definitely would like to work with you again on my next adventure.
Traveled To