Xplore-Asia News and Updates

Part Three, Cycling the Mekong Delta

2011-01-01T14:00:00.000-08:00

This post follows our travels in Phu Quoc, we had decided against taking the ferry from Phu Quoc to Rach Gia. Had we opted for this route we would have taken the option to cycle for the day from Rach Gia to Chau Doc. This is a great cycle route covering 92 Km on small quiet roads. Chau Doc is the border town bewteen Cambodia and Vietnam and Speedboats travel from Chau Doc in the morning arriving in Phnom Penh at noon. As time was a limiting factor we decided to fly to Ho Chi Minh where we were met by our excellent guide who accompanied us on this short two day trip of the Mekong Delta. Our company policy is to try to avoid dangerous highways so we transfered from Ho Chi Minh 2 hours to the My Tho in the Mekong Delta. From here after a quick adjustment of the bicycle seat we started pedalling on the quiet country lanes along the Tien River to Cai Be. This trip was definately not on main roads. We followed quiet narrow roads and paths criss crossing the maze of the Mekong Delta, passing banana plantations, sugarcane fields and lush rural landscapes. Where there weren't bridges we jumped on small ferry's including our ferry from Dinh Khao to Cho Lach. This cycle day was around 40 Km before we transferred to Can Tho but this was mainly due to our time constraints and this cycle route could be adapted to meet cyclists needs. In Can Tho we stayed at the Kim Tho Hotel, although this hotel is classified as 3*, I would give it a 4* rating and we would recommend it as the place to stay in Can Tho. The rooms were definately of a higher standard and it is a very centrally located hotel. The Victory Can Tho is much more expensive but located quite far away from the town centre on the other side of the River.

The following day we took a boat trip to see the Cai Rang floating market, the market is a great experience to see traditional River Life on the Mekong with people bartering and selling there goods. We continued by bike to Phong Dien floating market and along narrow lanes through the Mekong Delta and cycled around 30 Km. Again we decided today due to this being an inspection trip we would only be doing a short cycle but the options are endless for people wishing to arrange several days cycling in the area. After stopping cycling we transferred for lunch before spending the afternoon at the Chu Chi Tunnels.

The Chu Chi tunnels used to be more than 250 km long and three levels deep and even streched under the American army base. The Viet Cong used these tunnels to control a large rural area around Saigon and even included meeting rooms and a hospital. American Positions would be attacked with the Viet Cong then retreating back to the tunnels, the tunnels were also used to move supplies, and even heavy artillery. The Americans resorted to a bombing campaign in which the district of Cu Chi became the most bombed, shelled, gassed, defoliated, and generally devastated area in the history of warfare and anything that moved was considered a target. After a couple of Hours at Chu Chi we returned to Ho Chi Minh and check into our hotel. View our Photo Album of the trip and like us on facebook

Part Two Crossing the Cambodian Vietnam Border at Prek Chak / Xa Xia and travelling to Phu Quoc

2010-12-29T02:43:00.000-08:00

Travelling along this route was just as much as an inspection trip as a holiday and although we never wanted to leave Nataya Resort the time had come to pack our bags and head to the Prek Chak / Xa Xia Border Crossing for our

Vietnam

adventure. Our destination was the incredible Island of Phu Quoc and the boat only leaves once a day at 8am from Ha Trien. This meant a very early wake up call. From Nataya Resort to the border the distance is about 62 Km. This meant an early departure and we left Nataya Resort at 6am traveling east about 15 Km to Kampot then continued east past Kep. To our surprise the last few kilometers involved us turning off onto a dirt road. Travelling down this dirt road for about 15 minutes we finally came to the Cambodian Check Point! Immigration proceedings were quite swift there were no tourists here and once we had stamped out of Cambodia we then walked the 300 or so metres to the Vietnam check point. Arriving in Vietnam the contrast was visible instantly, a large immigration office and even an X-ray machine. We filled out our forms and jumped on a mototaxi. The road was approaching that of a highway. Time was getting on and it was already 7am, but the distance to Ha Trien was only 8 Km on sealed highway. Arriving in Ha Trien we stopped to buy our boat ticket before heading to the ferry terminal and boarded our 8am ferry to Phu Quoc, everything had run smoothly and according to plan this is normally a rare occurance when scouting new routes.

The ferry now was heading back in the direction back towards Cambodia. This is the case as Phu Quoc is closer to Cambodia than it is to Vietnam but we enjoyed the 2 hour ferry ride and it gave us a chance to get some well needed rest. The ferry pulled up to the port and we had finally made it to Phu Quoc. This is where our adventure ended and our luxury holiday resumed. We were met by the Chenla Team who arranged our transfers to the stunning Island Resort of Chen La. Hardly containing our excitement we jumped in the back of the minivan and we were informed it was another 14 Km to Chenla not too far to go. The Island of Phu Quoc is stunning and a nice quite break to explore there are few cars and it has that island feel to it which is very different to mainland Vietnam with things a little slower and more relaxed. Arriving at secluded Chenla we were more than impressed this place was an exotic paradise. A top class resort and the staff were incredibly friendly and helpful. We were helped with our bags and we then spent the rest of the day by the pool and the beach! Our rooms were sea view and that meant literally on the sea, opening the balcony

we would take no more than a few steps and be on the white sands of this private beach. The water was clear and the perfect temperature to take a swim. The food at this resort was also great top quality and prepared by local as well as international chefs. On our second night though we ventured into town where we would recommend the local night market serving lots of great fish as well being a great place to pick up a souvenir a taxi ride from Chenla to downtown costs around $5 US and takes about 15-20 minutes. The next few days consisted of sun, sea and sand and of course great meals! See our complete set of photos on our facebook album

After 3 nights at this incredible Island we had to continue this “Inspection Trip”. There were two options for the onward leg one was a flight to Ho Chi Minh which took about 40 minutes or a 3 hour boat trip to the mainland of Rach Gia from where we would continue on by car to the Mekong Delta. Having come by boat we decided to take the short flight to Ho Chi Minh. Our travels continue in Part Three Ho Chi Minh and the Mekong Delta.

Part One: Kampot, Kep, Overland to Vietnam & Nataya Resort

2010-12-18T06:07:00.000-08:00

Xplore-Asia is continuously developing more overland routes and we have a commitment to researching the trip we sell personally. So this December brought about the inspection trip / holiday to Southern Cambodia and overland to Vietnam. The trip started out with a flight to Phnom Penh the bustling capital of Cambodia. After 2 nights in the Capital the adventure began with a drive south to the Cambodian Coast the drive took around 3 1/2 hours to cover the 160 Km as the road was being upgraded.

We decided to travel down to Kampot rather than stay in Sihanoukville as we were looking to inspect the quiet coastline with the idea to cross over the newly opened border to Vietnam near the town of Kep. Our first stop was the quiet Nataya Resort located about 15 Km from Kampot.

Nataya Resort was a great choice and just what we needed to relax! The infinity pool was excellent and facing the beach. The bungalows where built just metres from the beach and where great as one bungalow had 2 rooms with interconnecting doors which is perfect for a family or friends.

The Sea is quite shallow and although not the most pristine for swimming and quite shallow the Infinity pool makes up for it. For those wanting to spend a few more days you could try a day or overnight trip to Bokor Mountain just a few Km away. Bokor Mountain used to be a French Hill Station and the trip there involves a 4-Wheel Drive and a 2 hour trek to the old town at the top of the Mountain. For those visiting Bokor on a two day trip you will have more time to take in the ruins of this colonial town and trek to a waterfall nearby. On returning from Bokor you can go back to Nataya or visit the town of Kep or Sihanoukville close by. Our journey took us too the lovely resort of Kep 41Km from Kampot and just around 35 Km from the Vietnamese border. Xplore-Asia now plans to incorporate this route into Luxury Adventure holidays with a focus on Cycling as the road in this area is quiet and sealed which makes for an excellent road trip!

If you are planing a bespoke trip to Indochina get in touch with Xplore-Asia as we can certainly recommend some great package itineraries and offer advice on when and where to visit. Hotel booking for Nataya can be made with Xplore-Asia through our Cambodia Representative Office.

Pictures of this trip can be seen at our facebook page XploreAsiaUK. Follow our next post Part Two on Crossing the Cambodian Vietnam Border at Prek Chak / Xa Xia and travelling to Phu Quoc from Hat Tien.

Wildlife in Cambodia

2010-09-21T09:17:00.000-07:00

Xplore-Asia is as ever promoting the Southern Laos and Northern Cambodia area. This month we have been featured in the Guardian Newspaper with an article about Travelling in Northern Cambodia and a stunning kayak tour to see the rare Irrawaddy Dolphins

http://www.guardian.co.uk/travel/2010/aug/21/backpacking-cambodia-mekong-kayaking

We are also happy to announce the numbers of White-Shouldered Ibis have been on the rise in Northern Cambodia!!!

Check out the article in the Phnom Penh Post

http://www.phnompenhpost.com/index.php/2010091442018/National-news/endangered-ibis-rebounding.html

Unreal!!!

2010-07-08T03:46:00.001-07:00

Future implications of this speak for themselves

in reference to: BBC News - Solar-powered plane lands safely after 26-hour flight (view on Google Sidewiki)

Cycling and Travelling

2010-07-08T02:18:00.001-07:00

This is a great way to travel, ecofriendly, enjoying the attractions and way of life at your own pace and also a great way to keep fit Good Luck Ryohei!!

in reference to: http://laovoices.com/2010/07/06/eleven-down-89-nine-to-go-on-global-bike-tour/ (view on Google Sidewiki)

Tourist Numbers in Laos

2010-07-08T02:09:00.001-07:00

Arrivals to Laos by flight decreased during this period, however the numbers here are a little misleading, only 300 vistors to Vang Vieng in the month of May. This figure must be inacurate and well below estimates! Secondly in parts of Laos year on year figures rose dramatically as Backpackers staying away from Bangkok and Thailand streamed over the border to Laos,

in reference to: Tourism sector battling through major downturn | Lao Voices (view on Google Sidewiki)

Southern Laos and the Bolaven Plateau

2010-07-02T09:45:00.000-07:00

Looking to into visiting Southern Laos? Thinking of going to the Bolaven Plateau well there is a great new eco-resort that has just opened up in on the Plateau about 35km outside Pakse. The resort is set in a lush surroundings surrounded by coffee and tea plantations.

The climate is cool as you are about 1,000m in elevation on this volcanic plateau. There are numerous waterfalls around the resort but just actually you don't have to travel far to the closest one, you are right by it. From your bungalow just walk down the steps to Tad E-Tu waterfall here you can swim relax and enjoy the refreshig water. There are also short treks you can do from Tad E-Tu resort.

For more information about reservations or tours to the Bolaven Plateau contact us at Xplore-Asia.

How to get to Siem Reap from Laos or Thailand

2010-06-25T20:25:00.000-07:00

Well here is an interesting post for those interested in heading slightly off the beaten track, Xplore-Asia, through its Laos office has been looking for alternative ways to travel from Laos to Cambodia and we have found an extemely easy way to travel via Chong Sa Ngam. This border crossing is not new but not used very often.

It lies about 40 minutes from Sisaket in Thailand and the road is completely sealed on both the Thai and Cambodia sides. From the border it takes only one and a half hours to reach Siem Reap the distance is about 120km!!!

What does this all mean well certainly if you are travelling from towns in Isaan such as Ubon, Surin or Sisaket you would be looking at only about 3 hours drive to Siem Reap isn't this great!!. If you are coming from Pakse which the Xplore-Asia Laos office did the trip took about 6 hours. How did they travel well to start it is about 44km from Pakse to the Thai border at Chong Mek taking about 1 hour with Visa Proceeding (Thai Visas are free and on arrival). Then it would take about 3 hours or 200km hours to get to Chong Sa Ngam you would need to go through Ubon just directly south via town called Det Udon. After a couple of stops and toilet break and crossing the border it is only another 120 km to Siem Reap passing Banteay Srei temple on route. A new route and completely sealed all the way. Xplore-Asia (Laos) is now offering transport from Pakse - Siem Reap on this route as an alternative to traveling the route via Kampong Cham which take over 15 hours!

This poses well if traveller's are looking for alternatives to the flight from Pakse to Siem Reap. Or for those who would like to include a little of Isan in there tour program! Isan Northeastern Thailand is stunning and the people are great, eco-resorts like Kong Jiam are a perfect hideaway, and there are also some great temples to visit as an introduction to the Khmer Empire.

On another note the actual route the Khmer's travelled from Wat Phu Champasak in Laos to Siem Reap is actually only 240km and plans are underway to complete this road so in a few years the route from Pakse to Siem Reap may only take about 3 hours watch this space!!!

For more information Contact Xplore-Asia

Cambodia's Best Kept Secret - Sihanoukville

2010-06-05T05:45:00.000-07:00

Welcome to this weeks blog

Cambodia is well known for its Angkor Temples, The Mekong Delta and its turbulent history however, not so much is known about its 'Jewel by the Coast' Sihanoukville, a beautiful beach resort, fast becoming a world class beach destination.

Sihanoukville is located on Cambodia's west Coast near to the border with Eastern Thailand and very accessible both from Siem Riep home to the Angkor Wat complex and the capital city Phnom Pehn. This makes for a very interesting range of combinations and touring programs throughout the region.

One of the most popular itineraries to consider begins in Bangkok (Thailand), then flying to Siem Riep to visit the Angkor Wat complex, travel from Siem Riep to Phnom Pehn either by air, road or by boat along the river into the Capital City and then finally by road to spend a relaxing few days at the beach in Sihanoukville. For more adventurous travelers options available include cycling through Cambodia and combining with Eastern Thailand and crossing the border to get to Sihanoukville.

The resort itself, began life as a port town, established back in the 1950's. Since then the area developed and has started creating a world class beach destination.
Today there is a variety of accommodation to choose from including five star hotels on Sokha beach to mid range in town and beach hotels, and budget guesthouses, particularly on Weather Station Hill.

The main attractions in Sihanoukville are the beach and its relaxed pace of life, the beaches are very beautiful indeed, bright sands and clear waters waiting for you to sunbathe on and swim in.Watersports including snorkeling and scuba diving are widely availble with boat trips to nearby islands and interesting activity to consider whilst here.

Like every beach resort, choices for dining are vast and Sihanoukville offers a large variety of choice, with fresh seafood, caught daily a particular specialty including crab, prawns and ocean fish.
With the influx of foreign tourism, more westernised eateries have arrived offering familiar cuisine including Australian, German, British , Indian and Italian restaurants, making the resort a good choice for anyone.

Sihanoukville at night, offers plenty to see and do, good choice of restaurants and plenty of bars with many smaller bars staying open until the early hours, especially in the Weather Station Hill area, downtown Sihanoukville . Some of the most popular are the beach bars on Ochheuteal, ‘Serendipity’ and Victory Beaches.

Sihanoukville has remained Cambodia's best kept secret, it is still a very relaxing, traditional style beach destination, not spoiled by over commercialisation, meaning that it retains its unique Cambodian Charm and hospitality.

Next time you choose to visit South East Asia and Indochina, consider booking a combination itinerary with Sihanoukville as your beach destination or take a tour which incorporates the area, Xplore-Asia are able to tailor-make this for you, so extending your beach stay is always an option with us!

Artisans De Angkor Siem Riep Cambodia

2010-05-28T02:25:00.001-07:00

Welcome to this week's Blog.

Cambodia is a destination rich in history, culture and religion. It has been through turbulent times in the past, with the French occupation and the Khmer Rouge revolution however, Cambodia, has managed to retain its identity and culture. Nowhere more is this exhibited, than at Artisans de Angkor, a European Union sponsored business program, producing traditional local handicrafts for sale, across Asia and around the World.

Artisans De Angkor is in Siem Riep, home to the finest examples of Khmer architecture in the country, including Angkor Wat which is the main attraction that visitors to the area come to see.

A trip to Artisans de Angkor, is well worth including in your tour to the area, as it will open your eyes and provide a real-life insight, into the nature of the handicraft making business. The company employs graduates from the nearby 'Chantiers-Écoles de formation professionnelle' a professional training school that was set up with the aim to provide skills and training to unemployed people between the ages of 18 and 25, particularly after the reign of the Khmer Rouge, to make sure Cambodian arts and culture survived and could be showcased in the future.

Artisans de Angkor was then set up to provide the graduates with an employment opportunity, providing them with sustainable employment and income for themselves, their families and their local areas.

The best way to see Artisans de Angkor, is to take a fully guided tour, with the help of your fully knowledgeable guide, you will be shown around the whole process of producing fine local handicrafts including 100% fine Silk products, such as scarfs, bags, purses, wallets, cushion covers and excellent Silk woven paintings.

Also, Artisans produces a variety of lacquer ware products including statues, ornaments and containers, and amazing stone sculptures, all which you are able to purchase and take home as a souvenir of your visit to Cambodia.

Purchasing a souvenir or two from Artisans de Angkor, contributes to the sustainable employment and income of the regions people and keeps the fine arts and cultural heritage of Cambodia continuing, for now and into the future.

Please visit our website for details of tours that include Artisans de Angkor and the Cambodian region in general.

www.xplore-asia.com

The Sapa Valley Region of Northern Vietnam

2010-05-15T23:59:00.001-07:00

Welcome to this week's blog!

Located an overnight train ride from bustling Hanoi is the remote region of Sapa Valley, home to beautiful mountains and valleys, many minority hill-tribes and fascinating street markets. An escape to Sapa is highly recommended for those looking to see real life and culture in Vietnam.

Sapa is an old French Colonial Hill station nestled amongst the highest mountain range in Vietnam, Hoang Lien Son close to the Chinese border. Sapa is well known for its outstanding natural beauty and the variety of hill-tribes people that live in the area. As a destination it offers many adventure outdoor activities, cycling and trekking are the most popular of these.

For those seeking the ultimate adventure, consider a three day trek to the summit of Fansipan, standing at 3143 meters, it is the highest peak in Vietnam, affording breathtaking panoramic views into neighbouring China. Travelling to the summit, is not the hardest trek in the world, so if you are fit and healthy and have plenty of energy, consider making this trek to the roof of Vietnam, where you'll be amongst the clouds.

Hill-tribe visits and home-stays are a very popular activity in the Sapa region. One of the most well known hill-tribes in the area is the Black Hmong minority, who frequent the villages throughout the area. They have their own culture and customs and many tourists enjoying visiting and learning about their ways of life, by taking a tour or even arranging an overnight home-stay. You will learn about farming techniques, how their wonderful garments are made and be treated to traditional hill-tribe fare and music, a fascinating experience, allowing you to immerse yourself in how simple life can be!
Home-stays are an ideal choice if you wish to have a real life experience of how these people live and work their daily lives and the people of the Hmong tribe and other minority groups are very welcoming to foreigners visiting them. Another aspect of local culture not to be missed is a visit to one of the numerous, hill-tribe markets. Each market has its own unique feel and is generally a place for the locals to get together to sell their wares and to socialize with friends and family, perhaps even meet a partner!

The largest of these markets in Bac Ha market, 80 Kilometres from downtown Sapa in the Lao Cai region, this market takes place every Sunday under the gaze of the nearby mountains and the border with China. In-fact, tribes people from all over the region and even from over the chinese border come here to barter and trade. This is very common at all of the markets in the Sapa region, a real cultural experience, where horseback is the mode of transportation of goods for sale.

A Hmong culinary specialty you may wish to try is Thang Co Blood Porridge, made from a mixture of pony and goats meat, slow cooked to produce a fine 'blood soup' served in a large hot-pot. This dish is a popular staple of the hill-tribes people in the region and is shared by everyone, using chopsticks to dip the succulently cooked meat into a spicy dip and then eaten, normally accompanied with bread, instant noodles, vegetables and herbs.

It is best to try this dish at one of the restaurants in the Sapa area, as opposed to experiencing it at one of the markets, like Bac Ha, here you will see the locals socialize , eat and wash the soup down with wine! Thang Co is very popular among the locals and warms the body in a region where temperatures and plummet dramatically in the evenings.

Cycling, trekking and even traveling by motorcycle are all very popular ways to explore the Sapa Region. Generally tourists take an overnight 9 hour rail service from Hanoi to Lao Cai, the main town in the region and then a 90 minute journey by road and dirt track to get to Sapa itself.

For a short break to visit hill-tribes and trek, 3 to 4 days is the recommended amount of time for a tour here, for the more adventurous there are various treks, cycling routes and home-stays that can be arranged for those wishing to spend longer, and a perfect combination with the Sapa Region would be Hanoi and a cruise around stunning Ha-long Bay, well known for its limestone cliffs, commonly referred to as the Gullin of Vietnam!

So consider visiting the Sapa region as part of a tour to Vietnam and indeed Indochina, Vietnam offers a fantastic mix of history, culture, outstanding natural beauty and stunning beaches, more than comparable to other Asian destinations such as Thailand and Malaysia. You would also be supporting Responsible and Sustainable tourism and growth throughout the region as a whole.

Xplore Asia offers a variety of escorted and tailor-made tour options, please visit our website and contact us for more information and to design your personalized tour.
www.xplore-asia.com

Responsible Travel and Tourism

2010-05-03T08:30:00.000-07:00

Welcome to this week's Blog

Our theme this week is Responsible Travel and Tourism.

Many hotels, resorts, attractions , tour operations and industry suppliers claim to be eco friendly and promote Responsible Travel & Tourism, but really is everyone doing enough to justify their claims?

These days we live in a world where development in an environmentally friendly way is of the upmost importance. Tourism in the past has been seen to have had both positive and negative impacts on the world's environment as a whole, whilst creating much needed infrastructure and employment this has sometimes been done at the expensive of the natural environment.
Nowadays, because of the global warming issues we currently face, we as an industry are recognizing this and waking up to the reality, that we all must change our outlook and act with responsibility, hence this week's title, Responsible Travel and Tourism.

There are many ways you the traveler can act with responsibility on your holidays and be friendly to the environment, firstly, travel in a more eco friendly way, consider cycling, hiking and trekking as alternatives to buses, cars and trains for shorter distances. Try to choose hotels which offer eco friendly programs, where they promote the use of re-cycled materials throughout the hotel and have eco friendly programs. Some hotels have even gone as far as having their room designs based completly on recycled materials, being used to decorate and facilitate rooms and furnishings.

Responsible Travel is also about supporting the local economies and environment of the people and the places in which they live by bringing a sustainable income to the regions. Nowhere is this more apparent than in the hill-tribe villages throughout Asia and Indochina.

These people have had their own ways of life for generations such as the Black Hmong in the Sapa Valley in Vietnam. By respecting their ways, we can learn alot from these tribes people, as they too have to live off of the land and what the land naturally gives them. Encouraging purchases of souvenirs produced locally by these people, also acts responsibly, as it supports their own sustainable growth and development of their local economy.

Trying adding to your holiday adventure, by including a tour that visits Hill tribe villages, handicraft workshops, or take on the experience for yourself, and stay a few days with the locals, on one of the many authentic Home-stay programs available.
Choose a tour where the operator has a firm commitment to Responsible Travel and Tourism and their programs reflect this, such as the Mekong Discovery Trail in Cambodia, which runs tours through the Cambodian Jungles, alongside the Mekong River from the Laos Border all the way to Phnom Pehn. This program was set up to bring a sustainable income to the people in the region through tourism, and Xplore-Asia is actively involved within the operation and training for the program in this region.

Tree planting programs in Southern Laos are another aspect of Responsible and Sustainable tourism development on-going in the Indochina region. Both Cambodia and Laos offer outstanding cycling and trekking experiences too, allowing you to contribute to responsible tourism, first hand.

Choosing your operator is of paramount importance, one which cares for the environment and offers tours that actively reflect this. Now you can select your operator easily by referring to 'green travel market' a website that list Responsible Travel and Tourism operators throughout the world.

This website has been set up as part of a program organized by the Non-profit making organization 'Sustainable Travel International' whose main goal is to provide unbiased information, industry training, assistance and accreditation to the Responsible Travel and Tourism Industry as a whole, providing a recognized logo worldwide, to assure you the traveler, that the hotel, tour, product that you have bought, is up to standard and satisfies the quality and guidelines laid out, to be classed as a Responsible Travel and Tourism Operation.

Xplore-Asia has proudly recently been accepted by’ Sustainable Travel International‘as a valid organizer of Responsible Tourism Tours and programs, and over the coming weeks and months will be contributing to the development of STI’s programs with submissions and will also be listed on the Green Travel Market website, where you will find more information on Green and Responsible programs in general.

www.xplore-asia.com

Wine Producing In Thailand.

2010-04-22T06:53:00.000-07:00

Welcome to this week's Blog!

Thailand is known for many things, wonderful beaches, great sightseeing, fantastic nitelife and smiling happy people!, but did you know, it also produces some of the world's finest table wines, which have both been recognised and exported around the world.

This week we focus on one particular wine producer, Chateau De Loei, which is located in the stunning beautiful North Eastern province of the same name,Loei,near to the border with Laos.

Loei is a part of the country which is very different from most other parts of Thailand. Phu Ruea National Park has one of the highest peaks in the country and because of its height, the temperatures and the cooler climate of the area; conditions are very conducive to the cultivating and producing of fruits, vegetables and flowers, not normally found in this part of the world.

In fact, throughout Loei and in other neighbouring provinces, there are many attractions that can be visited to see this unique produce which includes strawberries, chinese pears, African Violets, Petunias and of course the vital ingredient for wine making is of course grapes, which grow here in abundance.

Loei has been described by some as a small piece of Southern France, in the heart of Asia, and this is certainly true for the Chateau de Loei, who have been producing fine Thai table wines since 1995.

Dr Chaijudh Karnasuta the founder of Chateau De Loei discovered that the Phuruea highlands were ideal for wine producing grapes and in 1995 bottled Thailand's first commercially produced Thai Table wine.

His wine succeeded and his wine became the first from the country to be exported to Japan and Europe. Even the vineyards logo is named after the Chinese year in which Dr Chaijudh was born,The year of the 'Rooster' which in Chinese signifies 'hard work and dedication' and this has certainly been the case with Chateau De Loei.

The whole wine producing process takes place at the Vineyard, and tours are arranged for people to visit, see and taste the produce and even buy some to take away and enjoy. The fine Chenin Blanc and Syrah grapes are grown here and using French bottling equipment, the wine is produced and bottled, for local and export markets.

Credit for Chateau De Loei's product success is partly given to the research undertaken by His Majesty the King Bhumibol Adulyadej,who found that the Phuruea climate, soil and water supply are ideal for the 'best grape harvest' that takes place in February and produces the best quality grapes for wine producing at that time.

The fine wines that are produced are fruit based wines, suiting different culinary experiences, Chateau De Loei produces three types of white (Chenin Blanc)and, two reds (Syrah) and one rose (Syrah)all with very distinct flavours and tastes suiting each individuals palette.

Initially designed for the domestic market and now a success Internationally, Chateau De Loei's wines have added to Thailand's reputation as a fine nation and an innovator, surprising people worldwide, with the quality of wine produce made.

So next time you make a visit to the Land of Smiles, or your even shopping for a bottle or two to take home for the evening, think of Chateau De Loei and either visit for yourself, or try a taste of this beautifully, scenic part of the world.

Chateau De Loei can visited as part of Xplore Asia's Kingdoms and Cultures itinerary.
www.xplore-asia.com

For information on the Chateau De Loei, please visit the following www.chateaudeloei.com

Labuk Bay Proboscis Monkey Sanctuary

2010-04-13T00:22:00.000-07:00

Welcome Xplore-Asia’s newest initiative, our weekly blog.

Each week, we will introduce you to different parts of South East Asia and Indochina, placing the emphasis the more interesting aspects of a particular region and keeping you up to date with new developments.

Our blog is intended to be a guide for you to help assist in tailor-making your dream holiday, with us. We hope you enjoy reading our blog, and remember, please continue to follow us through Face book and Twitter, to keep up to date, as we keep you updated weekly.

This week, we turn our focus to Labuk Bay Proboscis Monkey Sanctuary in Borneo.

Located in the heart of a mangrove forest and an oil palm estate, is one of Borneo’s real treasures, The Labuk Bay Proboscis Monkey Sanctuary, which is home to a variety of endangered wildlife species, with the indigenous Proboscis monkey exclusively found only in this part of Borneo.

The Labuk Bay sanctuary was born out of a kind land owner’s sense of responsibility to see the survival of these creatures. Whilst embarking on a palm oil plantation development, near to the current site the land owner, got to hear of the precarious predicament, these marvelous creatures were in, and wished to learn more. After learning about the monkeys and the possibility that they might lose their natural habitat, the land owner, dropped his plans for plantation development, to help maintain the ecological balance of nature in the area an ensure the survival of these marvelous animals .

The Proboscis Monkey’s have very recognizable features; the males are very large in size and have very prominent noses which swell and turn red when the monkey is either angry or excited. These are thought to be significant in the males courting of a female. Also the males are known for their, flat top reddish hairstyles, and large protruding bellies, thought to relate to their complex digestive system.
In comparison, the females are much smaller in size with their only distinguishing feature being their up turned noses. The size and weight difference of the male to the female is thought to be the largest amongst any primate species throughout the world.
The Proboscis Monkey’s home is in the mangrove forest and swamp, so apart from living amongst the trees, the monkey’s feel very much at home in the streams, rivers and creeks and are more than accomplished swimmers.

Today, the Labuk Bay Sanctuary provides the monkeys, with a home for life, and operates a very successful feeding programme; a dietary supplement scheme of fruits and water, which helps ensure the conservation of these animals. The monkey’s come regularly each day for their feed, normally in groups, which you can observe whilst visiting here. Another initiative is the mangrove planting project, where you can make a donation towards the repopulation of the monkey’s habitat and the world’s environment in general.

The Sanctuary offers fully guided treks and night walks through the jungle to observe not only the Proboscis Monkeys but also the abundance of other wildlife, including hornbills, wild boars, crocodiles, maroon leaf monkeys, and maybe a wild orangutan. At night the forest comes alive, when the firefly’s, light up the darkness, providing an amazing light show experience.

Only a few minutes driving distance by pick up from the sanctuary is Nipah resort, which serves as the accommodation for Labuk Bay. in fact, it is the only accommodation within the vicinity of Labuk Bay.

Set in lush tropical rainforest, and built in lodge style, it provides a very relaxing setting with a choice of comfortable chalets or shared dorms (ideal for group travel).

The chalets, double and twin have both air conditioning and fans, with hammocks on the private veranda outside, which you can slip into after a day’s exploring.

The resorts restaurant is set in a low lying area amongst the mangrove forest, which in the evening provides a dramatic scene of the firefly’s lighting up the trees. Also there is a satellite TV room, a pool table and a library and internet room, if you wish to catch up on the rest of the world.
However, why would you wish to catch up on the rest of the world, when you’ve spent the day in paradise on Earth, amongst the amazing Proboscis Monkeys and the beautiful nature and wildlife.

A visit to Labuk Bay is an experience definitely not to be missed when you in this part of Borneo, after all, exploring nature is the reason why you come here.
Labuk Sanctuary is featured as part of the Discover Borneo escorted tour by Xplore-Asia. Please visit our website for full details of the program and to make a reservation

Xplore-Asia looks forward to bringing you closer to nature, in Borneo.

Xplore Asia Launches New Escorted Tours and Tailormade Programs Brochure

2010-01-22T23:12:00.000-08:00

Exciting News from Xplore-Asia.

New Escorted Tours and Tailor-made Programs brochure has just been launched and is now available! Please visit our website to download your own personal copy and find out about the New Tours and destinations on offer in 2010.

This year Xplore Asia will take you on Adventurous,Cultural and Historical tours to new parts of Asia. Thailand, Malaysia, Borneo and Indonesia are new Destinations for 2010-2011.

Discover the wonderful' Coastal Road' That runs the length and breath of Thailand, from Bangkok to Nakon Sri Thammarat, it's Thailand's Route 66! Passing through Banana and Rubber plantations,stunning beaches and everyday villages The Coastal road tour will give you a full insight into the lives of the people and the region of the South. This Tour is ideal for people who have discovered the North and are yet to Discover the South!

Classic Malaysia and Discover Borneo, mark our first entry into this culturally rich and diverse Nation. From the bright neon lights, Diverse shopping malls and Exotic markets of KL, to the Jungle Clad mountains of Borneo, colonially rich Penang, to tranquil and beautiful Langkawi, whilst discovering the Tea Plantations in the Cameron highlands, Malaysia as they say is 'Truly Asia' with its rich mix of culture and people, spices and natural beauty!

In Indochina we offer a you an array of touring options, from those with time for a short stopover passing through, choose from a variety of tours,treks and adventures in Laos and Cambodia. Visit our website for more information or contact our local offices.

For more in depth touring, consider one of our three escorted tours, for 2010.

Choose from 'The Journey through Indochina, 21 days touring the region, taking you from Bangkok through Laos, discovering Vietnam , the Mekong delta river and into Cambodia to visit the capital of today and the capital of yesterday 'Angkor Wat' at Si em Riep. This tour, truly gives you a full insight into the region as a whole.

Take 16 days exploring on the 'Trails of Indochina, this tour starts from Bangkok, heads north to cultural rich Chiang Mai in the north of Thailand and crosses the border into Laos, where you begin the trail, through Indochina heading for Vietnam and a full discovery of the country, from Hanoi to Halong Bay, Danang and Hoi An to Ho Chi Minh, now is the time to 'discover' these two developing nations.

Finally, 'The Gateway to Indochina' focuses on the southern part of the region, offering a round trip of adventure from Thailand, through mysterious Laos and South, alongside the Mekong River into the Kingdom of Cambodia, where you will visit the Capital city Phnom Penh, and the Ancient city of Angkor Wat, in Siem Riep, before returning to Bangkok.

This tour offers everything, history, culture, great sightseeing and the added bonus of nature, you get the chance to see the Niagara of the East , Khon Phapeng in Laos, and the Irrawaddy Dolpins near Kratie, part of the Mekong Discovery Trail.

This is only a selection of the 'New Touring options' from Xplore-Asia, for a more in-depth look, please download the new brochure and Xplore the website.

Xplore Asia looks forward to the opportunity of you, Xploring Asia with us.

www.xplore-asia.com

The Mekong Discovery Trail Laos Border - Stung Treng

2009-08-15T19:44:00.000-07:00

Ou Svay is a little village about 11km from the Laos / Cambodian border and about 46km from Stung Treng. The village can be reached by taxi or motorbike and makes for an excellent starting point to see the Irrawaddy Dolphins.
From Oh Svay there are two routes you can explore along the river one is North and the other is South and they offer very different experiences
North to Preah RumkelTake a boat ride with the villagers to see the Anlung Cheuteal dolphin pool. One of the last pools of Irrawaddy dolphins in the Mekong there are estimated to be only about 64 currently remaining. The boat driver will switch off his engine about 100m from the dolphins as so not to disturb them. After watching the dolphins stop of at the mainland which is the start of the trek up Vouen Nhang hill. The climb up the hill takes about an hour and is gentle, passing through forest which makes excellent shade.
At the top the views become clear, enjoy the views over the Si Pan Don area in Laos and see the lower Mekong. This area is right on the Laos / Cambodian border, many people would have heard of this waterfall from Don Khone but approaching from the Cambodian side is an awesome experience, and shows the other side of the waterfall created by the water eroding the softer rock basin downstream.
Take in the views, on one side of the hill you will have views of endless forests into Cambodia while on the other side you will have views over the Mekong making its way up north through fabulous rock formations in the Mekong that stopped the French from transporting their goods within the Indochina region.
After enjoying your picnic lunch start your return trip down the hill again. Going back is easy and you can continue to Preah Rumkel an Ecotourism Site which has been setup to promote sustainable tourism. Have dinner with the local community and spend the night in one of the homestays, the generators normally go out at 9pm so you can have a good nights sleep!
South to Stung TrengThe following day you can return to Stung Treng via Veun Kham the Laos / Cambodian border town or continue your adventure with a kayaking trip along the Mekong from Oh Svay.
Kayaking along this stretch of the river provides a unique experience unrivalled to any other trip, the experience is not difficult and they are no real rapids but the birdlife sustained by the Flooded forest is delightful.
Starting the trip at Oh Svay kayak down river and you will soon find yourself in the shaded flooded forests of the Ramsar wetlands, the trees are huge and there roots all appear out of the water, the water here supports a large variety of fish and is oxygentated by the waterfalls upstream which supports the whole ecosystem. Listen and watch the birdlife while you float downstream. A tranquil day not to be forgotten. After kayaking through the forest you will arrive at Koh Ky where you can then transfer to Stung Treng by vehicle ending the day with a shower at a nice hotel or for the more adventurous enjoy camping on a sandy island or stay at a nature lodge on the Mekong.

The Golden Triangle, The Emerald Triangle and ?

2009-07-18T23:39:00.000-07:00

The region where Myanmar, Laos and Thailand meet is well know as the Golden Triangle; made famous for its history of Opium Production. The region where Laos, Thailand and Cambodia meet is called the Emerald Triangle. Several Thai towns in the area make a great visit including the town of Khong Chiam the most eastern point in Thailand with excellent sunsets.

The area close by has been in the news recently because of skirmishes between the Thai and Cambodian border police and a row over ownership of the land around Preah Vihear. The actual temple is located in Northern Cambodia but only easily accessible from Thailand. It is remarkable set on a cliff overlooking Cambodia several hundred meters below. It has been open since 1998 and we hope to develop our tours here in the future.

But what should the region be called around where Laos, Cambodia and Vietnam meet be called. On the Laos side have various ethnic villages including that of Phu Vong with the ethnic groups famous for their tattooed faces and earrings. The Cambodian side is dominated by the town of Ban Lung. This area is stunning with the Yeak Laom. A volcanic circular crater lake and the Siem Pang area and the border with Vietnam makes up part of the Virheay National Park.

Over the coming year Xplore-Asia will be developing adventure and wildlife tours to this region in association with the Mekong Discovery Trail. We will also be posting a featured article on each area on our blog.

Crime in Phnom Penh

2009-05-20T09:25:00.000-07:00

Recently in Phnom Penh there has a been an increase in petty crime, it certainly feels that way. Having been in the country the last year or so and speaking to the locals and expats the same familiar story emerges from stories like these:

"I was in the market and two guys grabbed my purse and ran away no body even helped" or

"I was walking back home it was quite late but it was only 5 mins to my hotel, when I was robbed losing a small amount but also all my credit cards and passport".

Yes it seems that there has been a surge in theft in the Cambodian Capital. The reason for this could well be the economy. A lot of local people talk about the factories closing down and many jobs being lost. People do have to eat so they turn to easy pickings, tourists or even locals who have let there guard down. Or it could just be in Cambodia the police don't really enforce the law on the locals so some people see opportunistic theft as an easy way to make a quick buck!

Whatever the reason the city is much safer than it used to be, however one should be careful and think twice about walking home late at night or taking one of those motorbike taxis with a driver you don't know! They could take you anywhere.

This all being said Phnom Penh is a city and every major city has crime so the standard precautions apply to Phnom Penh as would do in any other city. Don't try to be too flash or walk about with your wallet in your back pocket or a fancy looking watch on your arm. If you must be walking around at night try to keep to the main roads but preferably take a tuk tuk from one place to another.

Xplore-Asia New Website & Videos

2008-07-10T02:34:00.000-07:00

Well it has taken a while and much work and long days in front of the computer but we have finally managed to get our website out to the public. The new site offers package and shorter city tours to 6 Asian countries where we specialise, we have some excellent promotions and last minute deals to so pop us a line at

http://www.xplore-asia.com

We have also just finished some videos of the region which can be found on youtube check it out our Youtube Page at

http://www.youtube.com/user/xploreasia

Comments welcome happy viewing