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Pagoda and temple
The colors, smells and splendor of Asian temples and pagodas are awe-inspiring. But, it can also be a little overwhelming. Do more than take a photo – come away from your guided visit to these spiritual places with a better understanding of Buddhist or Confucian beliefs and the ways in which they have been stitched into Vietnamese culture over the centuries. Our knowledgeable guides are happy to talk about the history and philosophy of these sacred places as well as the roles they play during important chapters in the lives of many Vietnamese people.
Often referred to as "Inland Ha Long Bay", the area of Tam Coc and Hoa Lu is characterized by the limestone geology that gives rise to the towering karst formations that make this picturesque area so unique. Let's embark on a small rowboat tour to explore the area, with some scenic cycling also on the menu.
The city of Hue has long been one of the country's foremost cultural, religious, and educational centers. UNESCO declared it a World Heritage Site in 1993. Restoration and preservation work continues with tourism by Vietnamese and foreigners alike providing an important contribution. This tour takes you at a relaxing pace to some of the must see sites, letting you wander through this city of galleries of Vietnam's history.
The city of Hue has long been one of the country's foremost cultural, religious, and educational centers. UNESCO declared it a World Heritage Site in 1993. Restoration and preservation work continues with tourism by Vietnamese and foreigners alike providing an important contribution. This tour takes you at a relaxing pace to some of the must see sites, letting you wander through this city of galleries of Vietnam's history.
This tour takes you away from the standard city tour routes to explore rural life, country lanes, and handicraft villages. What could be better than gentle cycling while waving at locals and getting great smiles in return? Come make an unforgettable memory with us in and around this fantastic city...
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This trip is a must for the travelers who crave adventure and who are eager to find unique destinations and veer off the well trodden paths. We'll begin with a mellow cycling exploration of Hue's tree-lined back roads. We'll do more than a mere 'transfer by car' to take you to Hoi An, instead we'll take the scenic route and journey along the Ho Chi Minh trail into the lands of the Co Tu people. Encounter locals and gain insights in their ancient culture. We'll finish in relaxing, natural style with a trip to the Cham Islands archipelago by chilling out in clear blue waters and savouring a full set of aquatic and sub-aquatic activities... Read More
The city of Hue has long been one of the country's foremost cultural, religious, and educational centers. UNESCO declared it a World Heritage Site in 1993. Restoration and preservation work continues with tourism by Vietnamese and foreigners alike providing an important contribution. This tour starts with a glance at Hue's major historical sites before taking you along the coast for some stunning ocean vistas, and a few other scenic stops before reaching Hoi An, the ancient port town and World Heritage Site.
The city of Hue has long been one of the country's foremost cultural, religious, and educational centers. UNESCO declared it a World Heritage Site in 1993. Restoration and preservation work continues with tourism by Vietnamese and foreigners alike providing an important contribution. This tour starts with a glance at Hue's major historical sites before taking you along the coast for some stunning ocean vistas, and a few other scenic stops before reaching Hoi An, the fantastically well preserved ancient port town and World Heritage Site.
Journey from one World Heritage Site to another. Experience two different atmospheres, both charming and deeply etched with history. This tour gives you enough time to explore so many of the area's cultural treasures at a relaxing pace. Interesting and gorgeous sites are numerous in this part of Vietnam, and we're offering you to the chance to see most of them while still having plenty of free time for your own leisure.
Phnom Penh is a graceful capital that was once known as the 'Pearl of Asia'. It is a timeless throwback to an older Asia. The riverfront area remains one of the most attractive in the region and is perfect for a late afternoon stroll. The tinkle of music from ancient temples, saffron-clad monks wandering past, and street hawkers with bubbling cauldrons immerse us in the past, even as rapid, modern changes spring up all around.
This trip brings you from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap through Battambang, the rice bowl of Cambodia. The adventure begins with a visit to the incredible floating town of Kompong Luang, the largest floating community on the massive Tonle Sap Lake. At Battambang we'll make an in depth exploration of rural Cambodian life by visiting local villages and sacred temples. There is also an option to visit the incredible jungle temple of Banteay Chhmar, famous for its signature carved faces of King Jayavarman VII.
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Kampot is a charming riverside town, rich in French colonial-era architecture and a popular place for scenic riverboat trips. There are several pagodas hidden in caves we can explore throughout the area, including ancient, perfectly preserved brick temples from the pre-Angkorian period.
A three day exploration to the northern roads of Cambodia along the Mekong river to Kratie – home of the rare freshwater Irrawaddy dolphins. This tour is also a great way to learn about Cambodian rural life as we visit an impressive spider market, and stroll through lush green rice fields in Kampong Thom. We also explore the impressive pre-Angkorian capital of Isanapura, known today as Sambor Prei Kuk. The first major temple city in southeast Asia, the brick temples of Sambor Prei Kuk offer a peaceful contrast to their more illustrious (and crowded) cousins at Angkor... Read More
This tour takes you along the mighty Mekong River for an in-depth exploration of Ratanakiri province. Many beautiful sites and activities are available to us all along the route. Temple explorations, boating excursions, elephant riding, dolphin spotting... and so much more.
This trip brings you from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap through Battambang, the rice bowl of Cambodia. The adventure begins with a visit to the incredible floating town of Kompong Luang, the largest floating community on the massive Tonle Sap Lake. At Battambang we'll make an in depth exploration of rural Cambodian life by visiting local villages and sacred temples. There is also an option to visit the incredible jungle temple of Banteay Chhmar, famous for its signature carved faces of King Jayavarman VII.
Visiting friendly Laos capital city where many ancient monuments and stupas. Beside, this city boasts outstanding French colonial architecture and low level buildings that are spread out in the city, enhancing a cultural and relaxed atmosphere. Up there in Luang Prabang, you experience the ancient kingdom of Laos where traditionally remain uncharged in century. It is known as the 'Thousand Pagoda City', there are countless intriguing architectural highlights in the sleepy and once royal capital.
A tour with a difference, allowing you to really immerse yourself in Lao culture; you will venture out into the rural hill tribe villages to see the different ethnic minorities and to learn about their fascinating lifestyles, traditions and colourful history. You will be scenically rewarded by the stunning river views, such as on the Wat Phou cruise that takes you in comfort down the majestic Mekong River, zigzagging through mild rapids to Champassak, through the 4,000 islands region, and to the scenic splendour Khong Pha Peng waterfall, known as the "Niagara of the East".
Visiting friendly Laos capital city where many ancient monuments and stupas. Beside, this city boasts outstanding French colonial architecture and low level buildings that are spread out in the city, enhancing a cultural and relaxed atmosphere. Up there in Luang Prabang, you experience the ancient kingdom of Laos where traditionally remain uncharged in century. It is known as the 'Thousand Pagoda City', there are countless intriguing architectural highlights in the sleepy and once royal capital.
Vang Vieng is a stunning small riverside town and a traveller's paradise, you will take in some of the most spectacular scenery you're ever going to encounter, as this town is located at the foot of the breathtaking mountains and nestled on the banks of the gorgeous Nam Song River. The tour explores Southeast Asia's most laid back capital, Vientiane and the fairy-tale kingdom of Luang Prabang, visiting magnificent temple structures and monuments of national and historical importance.
Vientiane is Southeast Asia's most laid-back capital. This city boasts outstanding French colonial architecture and low level buildings that are spread out in the city, enhancing a cultural and relaxed atmosphere. Life in this pleasant capital is slow-paced and there is always only a light flow of traffic, even during rush hour! We explore this little, peaceful capital at a leisurely pace visiting some of the finest and most important historical sites in Laos.
Vientiane is Southeast Asia's most laid-back capital. This city boasts outstanding French colonial architecture and low level buildings that are spread out in the city, enhancing a cultural and relaxed atmosphere. Life in this pleasant capital is slow-paced and there is always only a light flow of traffic, even during rush hour! We explore this little, peaceful capital at a leisurely pace visiting some of the finest and most important historical sites in Laos.
The 7.5 kilometers of Nam Hinboun flows through the cave of Konglor. It is the longest and grandest cave in Laos measuring up to 70-80 meters in some places. Climb to the dark summit to see the top of the waterfall. It is a true cave explorer's experience complete with darkness and small spaces. When light shines on the water, you will be amazed by how clear it is.
Vientiane is Southeast Asia's most laid-back capital. This city boasts outstanding French colonial architecture and low level buildings that are spread out in the city, enhancing a cultural and relaxed atmosphere. Life in this pleasant capital is slow-paced and there is always only a light flow of traffic, even during rush hour! We explore this little, peaceful capital at a leisurely pace visiting some of the finest and most important historical sites in Laos.
In the North Central of Laos, lies an area known to only a small number of interested travelers, archeologists, and historians, those mainly fascinated by the thousands of years old stone jars that are found at sites scattered about the vicinity. That is the surrounding valley of the capital of Xieng Khoang, which is spectacular for two reasons: the Plain of Jars and the crater holes as a result of heavy bombing.
Wat Phu, which means "temple on the mountain" in Laos' language, is one of the oldest archaeological sites in Laos. The temple complex starts at the base of the mountain with the main temple near the top and a natural mountain spring stream. It was built during the Khmer Hindu influence and the mountain is said to be a natural resemblance of a Shiva phallus. Today it is an important pilgrimage sight for Buddhist from all over Laos.
Visiting friendly Laos capital city where many ancient monuments and stupas. Then Xieng Khoang offers you an impressive archaeological Plain of Jars and colorful hill tribe market of Phonsavan. Up there in Luang Prabang, you experience the ancient kingdom of Laos where traditionally remain uncharged in century. It is known as the 'Thousand Pagoda City', there are countless intriguing architectural highlights in the sleepy and once royal capital.
A visit to the temples of Angkor is a profound experience, as few sights on earth can match the immense majesty of Angkor Wat, the overgrowth of nature run amok at Ta Prohm, or the mysterious faces of the Bayon... There are more than 1000 temples, built between the 9th and 13th centuries and the remaining structures are the sacred skeleton of what was once the social, religious and administrative centre of the Hindu Khmer Empire. Almost a thousand years ago, this was the largest city in the world, and truly is one of our planet's most special places. Make sure you see it in your lifetime! Read More
A visit to the temples of Angkor is a profound experience, as few sights on earth can match the immense majesty of Angkor Wat, the overgrowth of nature run amok at Ta Prohm, or the mysterious faces of the Bayon... There are more than 1000 temples, built between the 9th and 13th centuries and the remaining structures are the sacred skeleton of what was once the social, religious and administrative centre of the Hindu Khmer Empire. Almost a thousand years ago, this was the largest city in the world, and truly is one of our planet's most special places. Make sure you see it in your lifetime!
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This package is dedicated to people eager to discover an authentic Vietnam while enjoying some of the best treats en route. From North to South, travel the country in style. You'll get immersed in culture, tradition, charm and exoticism all along. We've picked for you the best gastronomic spots and made a selection of hotels, resorts and lodges that all mix harmoniously tradition and luxury. The "crème de la crème" of Vietnam served with our usual excellence of services.
This special package is perfect for family that has kids go together and would love to discover Vietnam in a more-than-classic-way! Pack all the things you needed and immerse fully in colorful hill tribe market, stunning terrace field valley in Sapa; shake hands and lovely chat with locals in one of the best rural architecture-preserved villages; kayaking and admire floating village in amazing World Heritage Halong Bay; feel the cultural atmosphere of ancient Hue and Hoi An; and get on the boat to cruise along canals lined with palm trees and thick mangroves in Mekong Delta... Let's make a move now!!!
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...Let's prepare your backpack and ready to experience our beloved country in an exotic way: Northern with Moc Chau – a range of traditional and deep-rooted ethnic cultures, hidden misty valleys, small remote villages that appear mysteriously from the fog, stunning panoramic views, ideal biking routes; ... Central with a glorious route - the ancient imperial city of Hue and the sixteenth century silk route trading port of Hoi An. Southern with Mekong Delta - home of lush orchards, vibrant flower gardens, musicians playing traditional music and boat trip through the canals and stroll on small islands. This is the Handspan version, and our vision of what a trip to "Vietnam off the beaten path" should be!!! Read More
To visit Kompong Pluk is to step into another world; this remote village is home to the fabled bamboo skyscrapers and fascinating people. Its exploration is part of our journey on the mighty Tonle Sap lake, which was registered as a Unesco Biosphere Reserve in 1997. The area is home to many Cham communities living a "floating life" on the lake. Our trip takes us to two main villages in the area for an opportunity to chat with some villagers and learn more about the beauties and challenges of their uncommon lives.
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A visit to the temples of Angkor is a profound experience, as few sights on earth can match the immense majesty of Angkor Wat, the overgrowth of nature run amok at Ta Prohm, or the mysterious faces of the Bayon. The temples of the Angkor complex are situated in the northwest province of Siem Reap, close to the town of the same name. Its exploration is part of our journey on the mighty Tonle Sap lake, which was registered as a Unesco Biosphere Reserve in 1997. The area is home to many Cham communities living a "floating life" on the lake...
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This trip brings you to the famed and iconic spots. However we promise an individual and memorable experience by adding healthy servings of creativity and panache. So to offer you the best service possible we find the trails and hidden gems that others overlook in their haste. When you visit the 'must do' spots with Handspan, you'll do more than just see them, we'll give you a deeper understanding of these beautiful places. We'll take you to the spots you expect to see while taking you far beyond your expectations.
... Almost a thousand years ago, this was the largest city in the world, and truly is one of our planet's most special places. Make sure you see it in your lifetime!
Nestled under the hill of Phnom Krom, the floating village of Chong Kneas changes location with the waters of the lake. Floating schools, floating shops, floating petrol stations, even floating karaoke bars... Let's get on the water to discover more about this way of life.
An alternative way to explore the Angkor temple complex, we suggest you join us for some leisurely cycling to explore the area on two wheels and ride trails from one temple to another. Through shady jungle, past ancient crumbling ruins, we'll cross wooden bridges and find no shortage of beautiful spots all along the way.
An alternative way to explore the Angkor temple complex, we suggest you join us for some leisurely cycling to explore the area on two wheels and ride trails from one temple to another. Through shady jungle, past ancient crumbling ruins, we’ll cross wooden bridges and find no shortage of beautiful spots all along the way.
Located in the mountainous north of the country, this former royal capital has been a UNESCO Cultural World Heritage Site since 1995. Idyllically situated on the Mekong River and surrounded by beautiful green mountains, the town itself is picturesque and offers a wonderful mix of ancient temples and French-Indochinese architecture. Like much of Laos the pace of life in Luang Prabang is relaxed and compliments the visual charm of the town perfectly. Luang Prabang remains the cultural heart of Laos today, yet it simultaneously offers an incredible assortment of things for visitors to see and do. It is simply a must for any first time visitor to the country, and one of our favorite destinations anywhere in Southeast Asia.
A visit to the temples of Angkor is a profound experience, as few sights on earth can match the immense majesty of Angkor Wat, the overgrowth of nature run amok at Ta Prohm, or the mysterious faces of the Bayon. The temples of the Angkor complex are situated in the northwest province of Seem Reap, close to the town of the same name. There are more than 1000 temples, built between the 9th and 13th centuries and the remaining structures are the sacred skeleton of what was once the social, religious and administrative centre of the Hindu Khmer Empire...
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The temples of Angkor are situated in the northwest province of Siem Reap. There are more than 1000 temples, built between the 9th and 13th centuries, and these remaining structures are the sacred skeleton of what was once the social, religious and administrative centre of the Khmer Empire. This trip brings us to the biggest lost temple of the complex, whose ruins are being swallowed by the surrounding lush nature.
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