Vietnam of today is a youthful nation fueled by the desire for modernisation and commercialisation while protective of its traditional past. In the stoic political capital of Hanoi in the north and vibrant cosmopolitan Ho Chi Minh City in the south, observing modern cities in the making. But along small streets, like those in the Old Quarter in Hanoi, you will still find silversmiths practicing their century-old trade, far removed from the modern changes around them. The former imperial capital of Hue and the ancient port city of Hoi An offer an evocative glimpse into the country’s rich historical past.
Hanoi, Halong/Lan Ha bay, Mai Chau, Hue, Hoi An, Saigon, Mekong, Phu Quoc Island
20 Days - 19 Nights
Essential Vietnam
Hanoi, Ha Long Bay, Hue, Hoi An, Saigon
12 Days - 11 Nights
Overview
Thailand is one of the most favorite holiday destination in Asia. It has rich historic culture, lively arts, beautiful beaches, exciting nightlife, friendly and hospitable people and with one of the best cuisines in the world makes Thailand a fascinating country to visit. Thailand also serves as a hub for Southeast Asia, is well placed to combine with other countries in the region.
Bangkok is the largest and most populous city in the country. It has more 10 million inhabitants and is known among Thais as Krung Thep which means “city of angels”.
Torn by a decade of civil war, Cambodia has only recently experienced peace and is beginning to establish itself as an attractive tourist destination. As one of the poorest countries in the world, the country has relied heavily on tourism for its economic growth. The government of Cambodia has given priority to developing the country’s cultural and eco-tourism industries to facilitate economic development and help reduce the widespread poverty.
The main tourist attraction of Cambodia is the ancient archeological ruins of Angkor, a World Heritage Site in Siem Reap.
Hanoi, Mai Chau, Lan Ha bay, Hoi An, Siem Reap, Mekong cruise and Saigon
22 Days - 21 Nights
Ancient Kingdoms of Indochina and the Siam
Chiang Rai, Siem Riep, Phom Penh, Luang Prabang
15 Days - 14 Nights
Overview
Laos, a peaceful land-locked nation, is one of Southeast Asia’s hidden gems. The stunning natural beauty of forested mountains and valleys teeming with wildlife combined with a fascinating Buddhist culture make Laos a superb destination for those seeking an adventurous and authentic cultural experience.
The tranquil capital city of Vientiane maintains a vintage charm with its faded old colonial architecture juxtaposed with ornate, gilded temples.
The fertile Mekong River valley and lowland plains are where 68% of the total population live. This group is classified as the Lao Loam (lowland people).
Laos has one of the lowest population densities in Asia, with an estimated population of around 7 million people. This number belies the fact that Laos is home to 68 different ethnic groups. These groups fall into 3 altitudinal distributions, namely lowlands, midlands and highlands.
The fertile Mekong River valley and lowland plains are where 68% of the total population live. This group is classified as the Lao Loam (lowland people). The mountainous slopes of Laos are inhabited by the Lao Theung, who make up 22% of the country’s population. Lao Soung (highlanders), including Hmong and Yao tribes, make up about 9% of the Laos population, while the remaining 1% are ethnic Vietnamese and Chinese.
Laos language
Laos’ dominant language is Lao, though only about 70% of the population speaks this language natively. In fact, there are more Lao speakers in Thailand’s north-eastern borderlands of Isaan than there are in Laos.
Locals living in rural areas speak ethnic minority languages such as Khmu and Hmong. French is also commonly used in government and commerce. It’s also a compulsory subject for schools in Laos.
Religion in Laos
Buddhism is the main religion in Laos, and its overall influence upon the daily lives of the Lao people has been altered by the strictures of the communist government. In fact, the Lao government doesn’t oppose observance of the religion and has used many of its teachings to support its political goals.
The Vientiane-based That Luang festival – once a 3-day religious observance during the first decade of Communist control – has expanded into a week-long celebration of concerts, parades, and religious ceremonies
Social rules in Laos
There are several social rules in Laos that you may need to follow during your holiday. Lao people greet each other with a prayer-like gesture called a nop. A younger person or a person of lower status will nop their elder or social superior.
The western custom of shaking hands has become more common in recent years, though a smile and a slight bow of the head is still considered polite. Backslapping, public displays of affection, shouting, and wild gesticulation are considered impolite among the local community.
Buddhism has also influenced many social rules in Laos – the head is considered the highest part of the body and the feet lowest, both literally and figuratively. Touching someone’s head or pointing with your toes are extremely rude behaviours.
You’re also required to remove your shoes before entering temples and somebody’s home.
