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On The Map Travel Group #1 P a g e | 1

Images of Indochina & Angkor Wat

Vietnam & Cambodia September 29 – October 9, 2018

Pre-Trip to Laos Departs September 26 • Post-Trip to Thailand Returns October 14

New This Year:

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A Private, Customized Tour Personally Escorted by the Owners of On The Map Travel

September 29 to October 9, 2018

Pre-Trip to Laos Departs September 26

Post-Trip to Thailand Returns October 14


PRE-TRIP TO LUANG PRABANG, LAOS (3 NIGHTS) Wednesday, September 26 Pre Trip Day 1: Depart USA Thursday, September 27 Pre Trip Day 2: Arrive Luang Prabang, Laos Upon arrival at the international terminal, we will be met by our local guide and transfered to the hotel to rest up after the flight. Accommodation: Maison Souvannaphoum Hotel/ Garden Wing Friday, September 28 Pre Trip Day 3: Rice Farming and Kuang Si Waterfall This morning we will visit a rice farm situated in the idyllic countryside, surrounded by mountains and rice paddies. Experience the life of a farmer and try your hand at some of the activities. All can join in and there are great photo opportunities. Or just view it all from the comfort of the traditional Lao rice house balcony, which is surrounded by rice terraces and an organic vegetable farm. During the experience, you will also have the opportunity to learn more about bamboo weaving, blacksmith work, and sugar cane processing. Towards the end, join a tour of the organic garden with an explanation on how natural herbs are used in traditional medicine. Continue to explore one of Luang Prabang’s most picturesque sights, the cascading Kuang Si Waterfall with electric turquoise waters and enjoy a picnic lunch in the tranquil surroundings of the park. Then take a leisurely hike through the natural park past the Asian Bear Rescue Center. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch Accommodation: Maison Souvannaphoum Hotel/ Garden Wing


Saturday, September 29 Pre Trip Day 4: Alms giving(early morning) / City Tour in Luang Prabang The morning alms round (called “Tak Bat” in Lao) is a living Buddhist tradition for the people of Luang Prabang and dates back generations. Wake up before dawn to witness and participate in offering alms to a procession of hundreds of saffron-robed monks in the early morning light, truly a spiritual occasion! After the alms giving, watch the town come to life during a visit to the bustling morning market before returning to your hotel in time for breakfast.

After breakfast we start to explore Luang Prabang City. Located at the confluence of the Mekong River and the Nam Khan (Khan River), UNESCO-protected Luang Prabang is a beautiful mix of gilded wats, saffron-clad monks, faded Indochinese villas and beautiful river scenery Morning drive to the centre of town and stop at the bottom of Phou Si Hill. Climb the 328 steps to the top for wonderful views over the town and nearby mountain ranges. Continue with visits to some of the main Buddhist temples including Wat Xieng Thong, a 16th-century temple which epitomizes the elegance and grace of Luang Prabang architecture, and Wat Khili, home to the archives of Laos Buddhism. After lunch at 3 Nagas, we continue on to the Royal Palace, which is now a National Museum housing precious artefacts that belonged to the Royal Family.


This evening we head to a local home and enjoy the Baci Ceremony. Baci ceremonies are an integral part of Lao culture. Held to celebrate a special event - marriage, a homecoming, or a departure - it is based on an ancient belief that the human being is a union of 32 organs and the “kwan” (or soul) watches over each of them. The Baci ceremony re-aligns the kwan and the body. A village elder will wrap a white cotton thread around your wrist while chanting an invocation to strengthen the power of the blessing. In Laos, white is the colour of peace, good fortune and warmth. Enjoy this authentic experience in a local family’s home and feel refreshed and enlightened by taking part in this ancient practice. Continue to Luang Prabang's famous night market. Walk through the market and head towards the small side streets where vendors offer ‘food buffets’ and different local snacks. Enjoy the sights, sounds and smells while your guide explains the different cooking methods and ingredients. After looking and sampling (if you want!) head to a famous local restaurant for Sindad BBQ - a "BBQ at your table" is a traditional way of cooking which is very popular in Laos. The guide will assist you with your food order and recommend some of the restaurants specialties. After dinner, head back to your hotel. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Accommodation: Maison Souvannaphoum Hotel/ Garden Wing Sunday, September 30 Pre Trip Day 5: Luang Prabang Boat Cruise and Pak Ou Caves Tour. Fly to Hanoi After brealfast, explore the Luang Prabang countryside during a long-tail boat cruise upstream on the Mekong River. Observe the rugged limestone formations along its banks, as well as the abundance of green forest and fishing villages on the way. Explore the Tham Ting and Tham Phoum Caves, better known as the Pak Ou Caves, home to thousands of miniature Buddha images in different positions, including meditation, teaching, peace, rain, and reclining. Continue by boat to

the small fishing village Ban Pak Ou where lunch is served before returning to Luang Prabang.


Then transfer to the airport to take the flight to Hanoi. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch MAIN TRIP – VIETNAM & CAMBODIA Saturday, September 29 Day 1: Main Program Guests Depart USA

Sunday, September 30 Main Trip Day 2 : Arrive Hanoi Upon arrival we will transfer to our hotel.

Accommodation: Apricot Hotel Hanoi/ Canvas Monday, October 1 Main Trip Day 3 :Hanoi Full-Day City Tour and Hanoi Street Eats After Dark Explore the charming city of Hanoi, often referred to as the ‘Paris of the East”, with its ochre colonial buildings, tree-lined boulevards and scenic lakes. We begin with a visit to Ho Chi Minh's House, a simple wooden house in a tranquil setting where Ho Chi Minh lived and worked. Some of his belongings are on display and visitors can walk up the steps to see his bedroom. Next, tour the fascinating Museum of Ethnology which houses an extensive collection of traditional costumes and artfacts from Vietnam’s 54 ethnic minority groups. After lunch at a local restaurant, visit the Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first national university built in the late 11th century. The picturesque temple is an example of well-preserved traditional Vietnamese architecture and is featured on the back of the 100,000 Vietnamese dong banknote. Continue to Hoa Lo prison, the notorious Hanoi Hilton, and learn about the decades preceding its use as a place for holding American POWs. It was used by the French to imprison Vietnamese patriots.


This evening, take a leisurely walk with your tour guide to the Old Quarter. Eating on the street is a very typical activity for Hanoians and makes up an important part of the city’s unique culture. Chit-chat with your guide to get an insight of street food in Hanoi and the typical culinary habits. Make a first stop at a coffee shop to try the local brew. Then walk a little further to taste some typical Hanoi snacks such as Pillow cake. Next stroll through the streets lined with many food vendors and make your way to a steaming bowl of Pho Ga (Vietnamese noodle soup with chicken). This is practically Vietnam’s national dish and is enjoyed morning noon and night. Next move on to try Vietnam’s 2nd most popular food, the Banh Mi Pate or baguette sandwich with pate at Banh My Lan Ong, one of the most famous shops in Hanoi. Later head to Dong Xuan night market which is well known for all types of goods including souvenirs. Try your hand at bargaining for a good deal before heading off to Beer Corner to try a cold glass of Bia Hoi (fresh, local draft beer). Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Accommodation: Apricot Hotel Hanoi/ Canvas

Tuesday, October 2 Main Trip Day 4: Hanoi – Drive to Halong Bay We depart early for a 3.5-hour drive to Halong Bay where we board our cruise vessel. Enjoying lunch onboard, we cruise towards South East Halong Bay, passing Chicken Rock, Finger Islet, and Frog Islet, arriving at Dark and Bright Lagoon. This afternoon, enjoy a drink at the bar or relax on the sundeck. The boat cruises back through the bay to its overnight anchorage in Ho Dong Tien. Later, a cooking demonstration is offered with the chef before a wonderful dinner is served on board tonight. This evening, retire to your cabin or join the squid fishing program.


Overnight onboard. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Accommodation: On Board Dragon Pearl Wednesday, October 3 Main Trip Day 5: Halong Bay – Fly to Saigon Wake up early and partake in a Tai Chi demonstration which is held on the upper deck. Then visit Surprise cave - one of the most beautiful caves in the Bay. Return to your boat where buffet brunch is waiting. Arrive at the jetty late morning and transfer back to Hanoi for our flight to Saigon.

Upon arrival Tan Son Nhat airport, we transfer to our hotel. Meals: Brunch Accommodation: The Myst Dong Khoi/ Dong Khoi Room

Thursday, October 4 Main Trip Day 6 : Saigon Tour / Dinner at Ambassador’s Former Residence


With over eight million inhabitants and four million motorbikes, Saigon is truly a city that never sleeps. Despite its modernity, Saigon maintains a strong link to the past and our walking tour takes in some of the city’s most historic landmarks. We travel along Dong Khoi Street to visit some of the beautiful French colonial-era buildings from the late 19th and early 20th century. Appreciate the splendidly restored exteriors of the Saigon Opera House and the Notre Dame Cathedral, a red brick edifice with twin spires constructed from materials imported from France (entrance is only permitted when no services are being performed). Then head across the square to the Central Post Office, completed in 1891. A short drive away is the former Presidential Palace, the headquarters of the Saigon Government during the American War. Continue to the elegant City Hall (the former Hotel de Ville) which is one of Saigon’s most stunning colonial monuments especially when floodlit at night. Experience Saigon’s famed street coffee culture while your guide provides insights into daily life in Saigon. Visit the War Remnants Museum for a vivid perspective of the American War through the eyes of the Vietnamese. This afternoon, we transfer to Salon Saigon and meet with Mr. Nguyen Huu Cau, a Vietnamese language and culture expert. He comes from the Bac Ninh province of North of Vietnam which is one of the cultural cradles of Vietnam. He has extensive knowledge about the history, culture and traditions of Vietnam. Participate in a lively one-hour presentation with Mr. Cau to find out about how Vietnamese people keep their traditions unaffected by modern development and yet integrate Western culture into their daily life through fashion, gastronomy, art, language and especially the role of the community. Next, follow our trail through an alley dotted with colonial era mansions until you reach a gate, behind which an enchanting home awaits. The US Ambassador to South Vietnam in the 1960s, Henry Cabot Lodge, lived in this stylish residence from '60 - '65; and today it has been restored to its former glory. We will enjoy a cocktail reception complete with traditional dance performances in the intimate courtyard. A sophisticated Vietnamese meal will be served in the magnificent dining room and is accompanied by live music to create a memorable atmosphere. Meals: Breakfast, Dinner Accommodation: The Myst Dong Khoi/ Dong Khoi Room


Friday, October 5 Main Trip Day 7: Mekong Delta Today we escape the high-energy city for a day of exploring sprawling rice paddies and colorful fruit farms. Early morning departures leave from Saigon for the drive to Ben Tre, the gateway to the Mekong Delta.

Arrive at the quaint An Khanh hamlet, where travelers will visit a small home factory that makes the traditional dish of sticky rice covered by coconut leaves. Meet with the owner and her hard-working team who will teach you about how they use century-old traditional methods to make this special and tasty cake.

Continue this rural journey of discovery with a short drive to meet a local family in Quoi Son village. After wandering though the lush gardens of this village, a motorboat takes you on thirty-minute excursion past peaceful scenes of countryside living. Disembark at a local ship building workshop and meet the owner who has perfected his craft, learning it from three generations of river boat-makers before him.

Trade boat for bicycle and enjoy a relaxing 5 km ride over easy, level terrain as you travel through narrow village lanes lined with fruit orchards and customary cottages. When you arrive at your destination, sample exotic fresh fruits in the orchard of a local fruit farmer. Here you can also choose to ride on either a horse-drawn cart or tri-motorcycle through the lush surroundings of the fruit farms before boarding a sampan for a ride along the narrow canals of the Mekong.

End your excursion at a 100 year-old ancient house where a lunch of Mekong Delta specialties will be served before driving back to Saigon.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch Accommodation: The Myst Dong Khoi/ Dong Khoi Room


Saturday, October 6 Main Trip Day 8 : Explore Cu Chi – Fly to Siem Reap, Cambodia After breakfast at your hotel, transfer to Tan Cang jetty and board a chartered speedboat to the Cu Chi tunnels. This river journey provides a glimpse of the changing faces of Vietnam - from the glittering skyscrapers and busy commercial centers to green paddy fields and pottery villages dotted along the Saigon River. The tunnel complex was initially started in 1948 to protect the Viet Cong guerrillas from the French air and ground sweeps. The tunnels also served as communication routes, storage facilities for food and weapon caches as well as hospitals and living quarters for guerrilla fighters throughout the American war. A visit to the underground villages will provide a better understanding of how the tunnels were constructed, the hardship of life in the tunnels and the Vietnamese resilience during combat. After visiting the tunnels, transfer back to Saigon for your flight to Siem Reap, Cambodia Upon arrival in Siem Reap we transfer to our hotel. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch Accommodation: Belmond La Residence Angkor/ Junior Suite Sunday, October 7 Main Trip Day 9 : Angor Wat, Monk Blessing Experience in Wat Damnak Wake up early and transfer by private vehicle to the West Gate of Angkor Wat from where the sunrise can be best observed. The temple complex at Angkor Wat (early 12th century) is surrounded by a 190-meter-wide moat and is claimed to be the largest religious building in the world. It is certainly one of the wonders of the ancient world. You will be amazed by the sheer size of the temple, which took 30 years to construct and used the labors of up to 300,000 workers. Angkor Wat was built as the earthly representation of the universe with its central tower symbolizing Mt Meru which, Hindus believe, is at the center of the Universe.


Return to hotel to enjoy breakfast. Located in the heart of Siem Reap town, Wat Damnak is one of the most beautiful pagodas in town with French colonial architecture reflecting its history and a large garden filled with statues. We will provide candles and incense sticks so you can participate in a private good-luck blessing ceremony, performed by local monks who reside at the temple. Sit on the mat while the monks chant blessings and sprinkle holy water on you - a traditional practice which is believed to pass on the good-luck of the gods. Afterwards, a sacred thread will be tied around your wrist. This will protect you from any evil spirits or accidents. Before you continue on your journey, you will receive a small keepsake from the monks to remind you of this special moment. Drive to visit Ta Prohm. This beautiful temple, built in 1186 as a Buddhist temple dedicated to the mother of Jayavarman VII, is one of Angkor’s jewels and is overgrown with fig trees, giving a haunting yet exotic atmosphere. The magnificent roots of the trees have merged over the centuries with the temple’s huge stone blocks, creating a ‘forgotten city’ feeling. Pause at Ta Keo, which would have been the finest temple in Angkor had it been completed. A short distance further are the twin temples of Chau Say Tevoda and Thommanon. After lunch, drive to Angkor Thom, not a temple, but an entire walled city of 9 sq km that served as the ancient royal Capital of the Khmer Empire from 1181. With a probable population of 1 million, it was far bigger and grander than any city in Europe at the time. Your guide will take you to the Terrace of the Elephants and the Terrace of the Leper King. The centre piece of Jayavarman VII's Capital is the Bayon temple and, as you approach, you will notice the 216 giant, enigmatic, smiling faces looking into every direction. Return to the South gate where you will board a small, private boat out to Prasat Chrung Temple to watch the amazing sunset. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch Accommodation: Belmond La Residence Angkor/ Junior Suite


Monday, October 8 Main Trip Day 10 : Banteay Srei Area Depart this morning for Banteay Srei temple, the only major temple that was not built by a monarch. It was constructed in the 10th century and was dedicated to the Hindu god - Shiva. Banteay Srei translates to “Citadel of the Women” and is one of Angkor’s most significant structures as its walls are decorated with elaborate carvings which have been preserved remarkably well. Finish this morning with a visit to the Cambodia Landmine Museum and gain an insight into the turbulent past of Cambodia. One of the most pressing issues facing rural villagers in Siem Reap is a lack of access to clean water. To help the local community, On The Map Travel has made a donation on behalf of our group towards a new water pump that can help provide safe drinking water for this rural area. At a small commemorative gathering, the local villagers will unveil a plaque in your names as the new pump is put into use. This is certain to be a memorable moment for all of us. This evening, On The Map Travel hosts a Farewell Dinner, a tour tradition that is always special. Meals: Breakfast, Dinner Accommodation: Belmond La Residence Angkor/ Junior Suite Tuesday, October 9 Main Trip Day 11 : Return to USA or Continue on to Thailand After breakfast, transfer you to the airport for your next destination – either back to the USA or continuing on to Thailand. (Post Trip Day 1)


POST TRIP TO THAILAND: Arrive Thailand and transfer to your hotel. This afternoon we get to know Bangkok. Visit the Thai-style house of Jim Thompson, the legendary American businessman who came to Thailand at the end of World War II and helped revive the Thai silk industry. His house is now a museum filled with fascinating Asian antiques and historical memorabilia. The complex consists of six Thai teakwood houses built following techniques used during the Ayutthaya period. Most of the houses are at least two centuries old and were dismantled and brought to the present site, some from as far away as the old capital of Ayutthaya. Jim Thompson’s mysterious disappearance in Malaysia’s Cameron Highlands only adds to the intrigue surrounding one of the most famous Americans to have lived in Asia. Meals: Breakfast Accommodation: Chatrium Riverside BKK Hotel Wednesday, October 10 Post Trip Day 2: Tour Bangkok and Or Tor Kor Market Morning drive to Wat Pho in time to experience the monks’ morning chanting ritual. One of the oldest temples in Bangkok, Wat Pho houses the famous 45m (148ft) reclining Buddha as well as the original school of traditional Thai massage. From here, take a tuk-tuk ride via Pak Klong Taland Flower Market towards the spectacular Grand Palace, home to the most revered Buddha image in Thailand, the Emerald Buddha (which is actually made of jade or jasper). Stop at Wat Arun, once the grand royal temple to King Rama II. After lunch at a local restaurant, cross the river and drive to Or Tor Kor Market. Ranked the 4th best fresh market in the world by a famous travel guide, Or Tor Kor Market is so much more than a


local market. Products displayed here are selected among the best found in the entire country with such an incredible range of beautiful fruits, extremely fresh vegetables, meats and seafood. Or Tor Kor Market is a nice place to stroll around, whether you are just browsing, taking photos, or actually doing some grocery shopping. Snacks and Thai sweets are also plentiful, whether the traditional kind or modern varieties, such as kanom krok (grilled coconut pancakes), sticky rice sweets, steamed palm sugar desserts, kanom bueng (coconut crepes), and many more. Other highlights include ready-cut and custom-cut meats, seafood, fresh mackerel (plaa too), dried meats and the various condiments used in Thai cooking. There is also a small food court selling delicious Thai food, including braised duck noodles, fried oyster pancakes, pad thai and various noodle soups. Adjacent to the market, the Doi Kham shop features organic vegetables, spa products and other dry grocery items from the Royal Project. Starting off as an agricultural collective, Or Tor Kor Market has grown over the years into an upscale outdoor food market. It is probably one of the few markets that have ritzy business tycoons and their families among its regular clients. So, expect the prices to be higher (but still affordable) than at other outdoor food markets. Return to your hotel in the late afternoon. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch Accommodation: Chatrium Riverside BKK Hotel

Thursday, October 11 Post Trip Day 3 : Fly to Chiang Mai Transfer to airport for our flight to Chiang Mai. In the afternoon, visit to Baan Thong Luang Eco-Agricultural Hilltribe Villages. Established in 2005, the fabricated village generates income for hill tribe peoples and aims to preserve their culture. Explore the village and its separate areas for each of the different Karen Long Neck Hill Tribes. The Karen women are known for wearing a stack of brass rings around their neck to elongate them. Visit displays from the hill tribes of Lahu Shibalah, Red Karen or Pakayor, Yao or


Miean, H’mong, A-Kha, Kaya and Palong Karen people, a unique opportunity to see and photograph people from various Thai hill tribes in one place. Return to your hotel. Meals: Breakfast Accommodation: Ratilanna Riverside Spa Resort/ Deluxe Friday, October 12 Post Trip Day 4: Doi Suthep and Baan Hong Bual Cooking Class Morning visit to a vibrant food and flower market where local Thais do their shopping. Continue to Wat Suan Dok, final resting place for the ashes of former kings of Chiang Mai and the Royal Family. Drive 30min to Doi Suthep Mountain, enjoying the spectacular views of Northern Thailand as you head past mountains and forests, towards Wat Phra That, one of Northern Thailand’s most sacred temples. Founded in 1383 AD, the temple is reached by climbing 309 steps (or for the less fitness-minded, a tram is available). The climb up is rewarded with a superb panoramic view over the city. Return to Chiang Mai. The subtle flavours and unique presentation of Thai food have made it one of the most exciting cuisines anywhere in the world. Discover the secrets of Thai cuisine during this cooking course at the Baan Hongnual School, situated in a countryside setting, just 9km (6mi) east of Chiang Mai. The program includes an introduction to Thai ingredients, as well as preparation and cooking of traditional Thai food featuring a selection of soups, salads, curries, satay and desserts in this four-dish course. Learn how to stir-fry, steam, and serve food the Thai way and impress your friends and family back home with your newly acquired skills. Enjoy your prepared dishes for dinner before being transferred back to your hotel. Meals: Breakfast, Dinner Accommodation: Ratilanna Riverside Spa Resort/ Deluxe

Saturday, October 13 Post Trip Day 5: Free Day or Patara Elephant Owner for a Day (optional)


Enjoy the comforts of the resort and relax for the day. For those who want to learn about and interact with elephants we provide the option to visit the Patara Elephant Farm. This comprehensive and ethical program teaches you how to approach your elephant, discern the elephant’s temperament, feed it and check its health. You will also learn how to take care of your own elephant, bathe and brush it in the river, how to ride on its neck, and communicate through different spoken commands. The camp has adopted/rescued elephants from unsuitable living conditions (eg. circuses, illegal logging camps, etc.), nursed them back to health and has so far released eight back into their natural habitat. This will feature private transfers and an English speaking guide. The price will be finalized once we know the number of people who choose to participate. Meals: Breakfast Accommodation: Ratilanna Riverside Spa Resort/ Deluxe Sunday, October 14 Post Trip Day 6: Return to USA Transfer to airport for your flight back to home. Meals: Breakfast

Images of Indochina & Angkor Wat Trip Price Laos Pre-Trip $1595 per person sharing double room $375 single supplement Main Trip – Vietnam and Cambodia $4945 per person sharing double room $1996 single supplement Thailand Post-Trip $1995 per person sharing double room $425 single supplment


A Word about On The Map Travel Air Service International air fare from your home town (joining in Luang Prabang if you take the pre-trip option or Hanoi for the main program and returning afterwards) is not included in the tour price. Shopping for such flights can be bewildering, and the mix of websites and discounts often emphasize price over comfort, specifically regarding timing and number of stops en route. On The Map Travel can arrange your international flights to join the trip and return home afterwards; and there are several reasons why we believe this is a good idea.

We offer very competitive air fares, particularly in business class We can use your frequent flyer points from nearly all airlines and credit cards You will have access to a private 24-hour phone service in case of flight delays or flight

changes. This is so much better than waiting at an airline counter for airport personnel to sort things out.

Our air service in combination with our travel insurance can even compensate you for delays on the tarmac of more than three hours. We will provide complete information regarding travel insurance after you reserve.

The transfers to your hotels both on arrival and departure are included if we book your flights.

Getting Started Once you have made your deposit on Images of Indochina & Angkor Wat we will be happy to research air fares for you, including using any frequent flyer miles you have – we will even waive our usual ticketing fees for flights to join this trip.

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