Thailand – The Land of Smiles, possesses a wealth of architecture, culture, cuisine and traditions that are all distinctly Thai. The local people, with their natural charm and happy temperament, are wonderfully adept at making visitors feel right at home. Located in the heart of Southeast Asia, the natural scenery is rich and varied, from misty mountains and jungles in the north, through the flat emerald rice fields of the central plains, to white sandy beaches and tropical islands along the eastern seaboard and throughout the south. “The land of smiles” as it is sometimes called, has it all.
Vietnam – An Ancient Land, has a rich past and fascinating culture. this beautiful and ancient land stretches for more than 1600km along the Indo-China Peninsula. Travel through Vietnam and see the misty mountain peaks and deep valleys of the Far North, the timeless paddy fields of the Red River Delta and the fairytale islands of Halong Bay. The capital city of Hanoi has gracious boulevards, imposing diplomatic quarters and shady lakes. Modern high rise hotels and office towers flank colonial buildings and historic monuments. The old qaurter has not changed in centuries and traders still sell teir wares from overflowing shops in narrow cobblestone streets. In contrast, Ho Chi Minh City never sleeps and everyone is busy, buying, selling, studying and building. This bustling commercial hub, previously called Saigon, is a shopper’s paradise with many new trendy boutiques and modern shopping centres, pubs and restaurants.
Malaysia – Unspoilt and idyllic, a mix of natural beauty in jungles, beaches, mountain resorts and rice fields combined with traditional attractions and a delightful cuisine. Malaysia is one of the most unspoilt destinations in Asia. Palm-fringed golden beaches, sundrenched islands, emerald seas and fishing villages along the coast create an idyllic holiday destination visited by thousands who have discovered its charm. Apart from its lush tropical beauty it offers great shopping and a wealth of interesting attractions.
China – Vast and mysterious, an exhilarating and enriching experience. The country has an illustrious heritage that can be traced back five thousand years. China is home to more than 1,2 billion people and although untouched by the outside world for centuries, it now offers a unique and subtle blend of culture, tradition, natural splendor and folklore. A trip to China is an experience of a lifetime.
Hong Kong – A Shopper’s paradise, filled with bright lights and busy people, huge skyscrapers, shopping centres, little Chinese shops, luxury hotels and wonderful cultural attractions. Bargain for souvenirs or shop for sophisticated goods. Dine in bustling local restaurants and savour the delights of Cantonese cooking, or dine in Western style restaurants. The city is transformed into a magical world by night as thousands of lights and neon signs invite the visitor to take to the streets. Places to visit should include Victoria Peak reached by tram or bus, Stanley Market, Ocean Park, Lantau Island and a cruise around Victoria Harbour.
Singapore – The ‘Lion City’ is a city-state with a vibrant economy, where shopping is a pleasure and the quality and variety is unsurpassed. Purchase almost anything from the glittering malls of Orchard Road, or the bazaars and street stalls of Little India. The city is compact and can virtually be explored by foot. Visit Sentosa, which can be reached by ferry or cable car. Dine out on a veritable feast of Chinese, Malay and Indian food at the wonderful Food Courts and Hawker Centres at Bugis Street, Clarke Quay, Maxwell Road or Market Square. The historical Singapore River with its entertainment venues offers good food in traditional surroundings.
Japan – Land of the cherry blossom, modern it may be, but Japan still retains plenty of its mystical oriental charm. From the etiquette demanded in social situation, to the minimalist décor behind rice paper screens, Japanese culture is alive and well and cannot be ignored, which makes a visit to Japan a fascinating experience. The modern metropolises are dotted with a myriad of ancient shrines and temples and the countryside is riddled with hundreds of volcanoes and hot springs overlooking pastoral paddy fields. Parks are festooned with rigidly raked white gravel Zen gardens or coated with layers of lilac and cherry blossom.
Indonesia – The largest archipelago, stretching for more than 5 000 kms across the equator. Vast and diverse as it is, the majority of its people are living on the five main islands with Jakarta, the main gateway and capital city of Indonesia. Like most modern cities it suffers from a bustling inner centre that is not always the most attractive feature, although fine examples of colonial architecture, good museums and exotic orchid gardens are in evidence. A miniature park representing Indonesia’s 27 provinces is a great attraction giving the visitor an insight into the country and what it has to offer.
India -The rugged and scenic landscape of India evokes a sense of awe and grandeur but India offers more. Golden beaches, historic monuments, bargain shopping and 5 000 years of Art and Culture! Incredible India!
Bhutan – Land of the Thunder Dragon and situated in the lap of the Eastern Himalayas, between India and the People’s Republic of China, Bhutan is home to one of the world’s most isolated nations.
Sri Lanka – Pearl of the Indian Ocean, a mountainous landscape with more than a hundred picturesque waterfalls, many hiking trails, diverse wildlife and over a thousand miles of beautiful golden beaches fringed with coconut palms. Sacred Buddhist cities offer the opportunity to visit temples
and other sites dating back thousands of years. Cities like Colombo and Kandy offer plenty of shopping and dining opportunities, as well as excellent museums.
VISAS: South African passport holders may require visas for some of the Asian countries. Please enquire with regards to requirements for each country.
SIGHTSEEING OVERLAND COACH TOURS AND DAY EXCURSIONS: Available from all major tourist centres.