South East Asia, 2011

Angus is visiting South East Asia in February and March 2011 with Tony and Sue Couch. It is a marvellous adventure which takes in six different countries and lasts for two months. How jealous are we? Here is a map of where they are going.

Day l. 31st January arrive Hanoi

Day 1 is simply an arrival day with no pre-organised activities, so you will have free time to relax and see some of the sights. Hanoi is the capital of the Socialist Republic and is dominated by colonial buildings and tree-lined boulevards. The city boasts a convoluted yet elegant history which is characterised by its 'chameleon of names'. The city has changed names many times throughout history. In terms of recent history, the French withdrew their forces in 1954 and ever since foreign investment and property has developed substantially, In Hanoi. Exploring on your own is relatively easy on foot or by bike. Many travellers believe the true appeal and essence of Hanoi is discovered wandering the streets, tasting local market food, observing the local way of life, and taking in the architecture and surrounds.

Day 2 Halong Bay. 1st Feb to 2nd Feb

We depart Hanoi and drive to Halong Bay. The area is surrounded by spectacular beaches and is, naturally, renowned for its delicious seafood! We will arrive around midday and board our junk boat for a cruise, (lunch included). On our cruise we will visit the famous caves and then find a secluded spot for swimming, kayaking and sunbathing. Halong Bay (Bay of Descending Dragons) is renowned for its limestone karsts. The bay consists of a dense cluster of just under 2,000 limestone monolithic islands, each topped with thick jungle vegetation, which rise dramatically from the ocean. Several of these islands are hol1ow and contain large caves.

On our cruise we will be able to explore these caves filled with stalactites and stalagmites. Dinner will be followed by the option of a spot of night fishing if you're still awake! Local legend describing the origin of the bay claims that the gods sent a family of dragons to defend the land when locals were fighting neighbouring invaders (thus the name 'Bay of Descending Dragons'). When the dragons came down on Halong Bay they began spitting out jewels, which turned into the various islands that are scattered around the bay, linking together and forming a barrier against invaders. Halong Bay was kept safe and free from invading warriors from then on.

Day 3 to 4 Hanoi Vietnam. 2nd to 3rd February

In the morning we will continue to cruise around the bay to find more secluded areas to either swim or kayak in. In the early aftemoon we will depart the majestic Halong Bay and travel back to Hanoi for some more free time. If you haven't seen a water puppet show yet, make it your business to do so at our stop this time as it is our last visit to Hanoi! This evening we will board our ovemight train to Hue.

Day 5 to 6. Hue, Vietnam. 4th to 5th February

Once the capital of Vietnam (during the Nguen Dynasty in 1802-1945), Hue is situated on the banks of the Huong Giang or Perfume River. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a bustling, lively place with many things to see and do, Hue is renowned for its monuments, temples, pagodas and architecture. The Imperial City, often likened to the Forbidden City in Beijing (and sometimes referred to as the Forbidden City), is well worth a visit. Hue also offers many Buddhist pagodas and markets to explore if you just feel like soaking up the lively atmosphere.

Day 6 to 7. Hoi An Vietnan. 5th and 6th February

We depart Hue and travel south to Hoi An. The drive takes us across the Marble Mountains and via the scenic Hai van Pass. There are stunning views to take in of the surrounding coastline and rice paddies. We have free time in Hoi An to explore the handicrafts, ceramics and fabrics that are sold at an abundance of markets. Hoi An is renowned for tailoring: pack your favourite item of clothing and get it copied here! If you're all shopped-out. you might enjoy relaxing on the serene coastal beaches with some local cuisine.

Day 8 to 10. Nha Trang, Vietnam. 7th to 9th February

We travel to Nha Trang. This beachside city is a popular destination for many travellers and is brimming with restaurants, bars and nightlife. You can choose to relax and swim in the surrounding crystal clear waters, or maybe take a cruise around the islands with a seafood lunch. We then get back on the overnight train to Ho Chi Minh City.

Day 11 to 12. Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. 10th to 11th February

We arrive in Ho Chi Minh City in the early morning and have the rest of the day free to explore. Ho Chi Minh City was known as Saigon untit the end of the Vietnam War (around 1975). Originally a small fishing village, Ho Chi Minh City is now the most important economic centre in Vietnam and is the largest dty in the country. Traffic in the city is fairly hectic at the best of times. Getting around is relatively easy by taxi or motorbike taxi, although drivers may not always speak English. Bus is the only form of public transport and motorbikes rule the road; there are around 3 million motorbikes cruising around the streets of Ho Chi Minh City! If you're interested in the history of the Vietnam War make sure you visit the War Remnants Museum and the Reunification Hall.

We include an excursion to the Cu Chi Tunnels. A network of tunnels which was home to around 10,000 people who lived underground for several years during the war. It took about 25 years to build this underground city. It has living rooms, kitchens, hospitals, weapon factories, storage facilities and command centres. In its hey day the tunnel system stretched over 250km from Saigon to the Cambodian border and was three levels deep.

Today the remaining tunnels have become a major tourist attraction giving the visitor a unique experience and a feel of what underground life in the American war must have been like. Or if you're in the mood to haggle for a bargain, don't miss Ho Chi Minh's largest market, the Ben Thanh Market. You can buy everything from cosmetics to live ducks here! There are also numerous food stalls at this market, and at the popular Night Market nearby. The food in Ho Chi Minh is some of the best and most diverse in all of Vietnam so make sure you eat well during your stay! There are also many bars and clubs to spend your evening in.

Day 12 to 13. Mekong Delta, Vietnam. 11th to 12th February.

This morning we travel to the heart of the Mekong Delta, visiting Cao Dai temple along the way. We will take a boat trip around the tributaries of the mighty Mekong River which provides an insight into a real perspective of Delta life. We will also visit a local handicraft village and you will have the opportunity to purchase souvenirs to support the local community. We will stay with a local family overmight. The accommodation on the Mekong Delta has no showers and no hot water. You will be staying in home stays along with other members of your group. The next morning we take an early cruise on a traditional samoan to visit the famous floating markets. We will return to Ho Chi Minh City in the late afternoon.

Day 14 to 15 Phnom Penh, Cambodia. 13th to 14th February

We travel by bus to Phnom Penh, the capital of Cambodia. This bustling city has a turbulent past which you can learn about if you choose to visit the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum (a fanner torture centre) and the Choueng Ek Memorial at the site of the Killing Fields. Phnom Penh has many other attractions, and there is some free time to explore the Hussian Market and National Museum. You could also take a stroll along the river's famous Sisowath Quay and enjoy a coffee or cocktail at one of the many cafes while observing the bustling river traffic. You may wish to take a tuk-tuk ride around Phnom Penh (a tuk-tuk is a motorbike-taxi with an enclosed passenger cabin that can fit around 4 people).

Day 16 to 18. Siem Reap, Cambodia. 15th to 17th February

We will take a bus to Siem Reap, which is our base for exploring the famous temples of the Angkor area. There are over one thousand temples here, ranging from small ruins to the famous Angkor Wat, said to be the world's largest Single religious monument. Angkor Wat pays homage to the Hindu god Vishnu and has a dazzling array of beautiful ornate carvings. We have a full day excursion plus guide included to maximise your enjoyment and time at the famous site of Angkor Wat.

The Angkor area attracts over one million visitors annually. The many ceremonial structures and temples here were built between the 9th and 13th centuries by the Khmer Empire that spanned a period of approximately 600 years. These temples are some of the most famous in the world and take up an area of approximately 160 sq km. You'll have the opportunity to tour the temples with a local guide or explore at your leisure. There are superb photographic opportunities here at most times of the day so make sure your camera batteries are fully charged and ready to go! Tuk-tuks provide a convenient form of transport around the area here, and you can hire a tuk-tuk and driver for the day if you wish. The Angkor area (in and around the Ta Prohm temple) was the site where the film Tomb Raider starring Angelina Jolie was filmed.

Day 19 to 22. Bangkok, Thailand. 18th to 21st February

We travel by bus from Siem Reap and make for Thailand's capital. Bangkok. We will arrive late in the afternoon and you will have the next few days free to enjoy this crazy, chaotic city! Bangkok is the gateway to South East Asia for most travellers. International backpackers come and go and the streets are always buzzing and full of life. No visit to Bangkok is complete without a visit to Khao San Road, the famous street filled with markets, stalls and neon lights. From people watching to shopping, and nightlife to food and drink, this is the place to be on a night out in Bangkok. If you're feeling adventurous you might wish to try a fried insect or two! As an alternative, the Patpong area is Bangkok's most notorious nightlife area. Exotic bars, pubs, neon lights, and night markets abound and you may be able to see some interesting stage shows if you so desire!

Bangkok also boasts hundreds of Wats (temples), with Wat Arun being the main one visited by most travellers.

The Grand Palace is also a popular attraction, and for something different you can cruise along the Chao Phraya River and through the canals. Bangkok once had an elaborate network of canals and was given the nickname, 'Venice of the East', and although some of them have been filled in and converted to streets, many still exist today. In the evening of Day 22 we will board our overnight train to Vientiane.

Day 23 to 25. Vientiane and Vang Vieng, Laos. 22nd to 24th February

Vientiane, the capital of Laos is extremely quiet - so quiet that, before 1970, there was only one set of traffic lights in the entire city (a far cry from Bangkok!). We have time to admire this tranquil city with its many murals and markets. Many buildings you will see when you wander the streets are of religious significance. You may wish to hire a bicycle and explore the local streets and excellent markets.

We make our way north from Vientiane. We travel through stunning scenery to Vang Vieng. This peaceful town is situated on a plateau with stunning surroundings of limestone caves and waterfalls, and the area is inhabited by the Hmong and Yao tribes. The limestone caves are renowned in ancient mythology and have featured in the prose of many artists throughout time. Vang Vieng is an excellent place to try the local cuisine and there are markets to indulge in. After a big meal you might feel energised enough to hire a bike and cycle to see the limestone karst formations - one of Vang Vieng's most popular attractions.

Day 26 to 27. Luang Phabang, Laos. 25th to 26th February

Many say this is the most memorable town in all of Laos. Renowned for a fascinating history and some of the friendliest people in South East Asia, Luang Phabang refers to the holy Pha Bang, Laos' most sacred image of the Buddha given to Fa Ngoum. We have two days to enjoy this sleepy town, which is located 300m above sea level on the upper Mekong.

As you explore you will see that Luang Phabang is dominated by Phousi - the marvellous mountain that sits in the middle of the lown. You'll notice a combination of Lao, French and Lao-French colonial influence as you admire the city's buildings and architectural highlights - all of which you can see discovering the town on foot. There are many temples to visit in Luang Phabang - over 30 in fact, which is a large number for this small town! Along the way you may encounter some young monks eager to practice their English skills as well.

Day 28 to 32. Chiang Rai - Chiang Mai . Hill tribe trek 27th Feb - 3rd March

About 180km from Chiang Mai, the more laid back but equally fascinating Chiang Rai is Thailand's most northern province and has a relaxed atmosphere. Chaing Rai is part of Ihe infamous 'Golden Triangle' which embraces parts of northern Thailand, Myanmar, and Laos that line the Mekong River valley. This area is famous for a long history of poppy cultivation and illicit opium drug trade. As we explore this mountainous area, we will visit a poppy field and the Opium Museum to learn about the history of the drug, its production and trade.

We then travel to Chiang Mai, which is located in the cool mountain climate. Known as 'The Rose of the North', Chiang Mai is renowned for its beautiful scenery and extremely friendly people. Mountains, forests. national parks and waterfalls are in abundance. While in Chiang Mai you can learn some authentic coking tips and Thai recipes by taking a cooking class, or if it's relaxation you're after then there's nothing better than a true Thai massage.

We will begin our included 1 night 2 day excursion, which includes a hill tribe trek, elephant ride and bamboo raft ride. We will be picked up at the hotel in the morning. Travelling with a local guide in private transport, our first stop will be to the tourist police station for a permission stamp before we transfer to the local market to explore. You will then have the option to visit an elephant training camp in Chiang Dao where you witness how these enormous creatures are taught to labor in the jungle.

We then drive to the beautiful caves of Chiang Dao, with its amazing limestone stalactites and stalagmites, and beautiful white marble Buddhist statues from Burma. We stop near the caves for lunch and in the afternoon we continue by pick-up truck through light jungle to an Akha and Lisu village to experience a little of their traditional lifestyle. The terrain here is mountainous and offers magnificent views. From here we walk about 1 hour to a Palong village where you spend the night in a rustic homestay. Dinner will be cooked the traditional way by the local guide and you will be welcome to watch or give him a hand. In the evening you can enjoy a cultural dance performance by local Palong children. After breakfast the next day, the elephants will arrive for a gentle 1 hour trek. The elephants are 15-20 years old and are well taken care of by the mahout (elephant driver). At the end of the ride we have a 2 to 3 hour trek followed by a 4WD ride to the Ping River where our bamboo rafts await us. We will navigate down the river for about 40 minutes, perhaps seeing village women washing their clothes in the river as children play at the edge.

After lunch we will stop on the way at a small market and visit an orchid nursery where you can admire some 200 different species of these beautiful flowers (depending on the season) before heading back to Chiang Mai in the late afternoon. The next day is free for options and in the evening we travel by overnight train back to Bangkok

Days 33 to 35. Bangkok, Thailand. 4th to 6th March

Arriving back in Bangkok in the early morning, we spend another couple of free days in this busy city. It's a chance to indulge in even more shopping and nightlife, or perhaps take it easy and visit some of the popular Wats in the area. On the evening of the 6th, we will board our bus and travel to Krabi and then on to Ko Phi Phi.

Days 36 to 37. Ko Phi Phi, Thailand. 7th to 8th March

Ko Phi Phi boasts sheer cliffs, crystal clear waters and ideal snorkelling or diving conditions. Hire a local longtail boat and visit hidden coves and tropical beaches around neighbouring islands. If you're after something a bit more energetic, hire a speedboat to Phi Phi Lei, the smaller uninhabited island, which offers fantastic snorkelling and vivid turquoise waters. Don't miss the tranquil Tha Laem Nai - the salt water blue lagoon lake featured in the Leonardo DiCaprio film 'The Beach'.

Days 38 to 40. Penang, Malaysia. 9th to 11th March

We enter Malaysia and make for Penang. We will stay in Georgetown, which is the capital. Georgetown possesses a unique charm. blending old and new cultures. Peddlers exhibit their goods surrounded by modem buildings. Old buildings stand side-by-side with new businesses. Take a rickshaw tour and introduce yourself to this lively town or perhaps visit the 65-storey Kompleks Tun Abdul Razak (KOMTAR), a prominent Penang landmark, which houses Government departments, commercial offices, department stores, shops and restaurants.

Days 41 to 42. Cameron Highlands, Malaysia. 12th to 13th March

Named after William Cameron, a British colonial government surveyor who discovered the plateau in 1685. the Cameron Highlands is a highland region around 1,500m above sea level. There are many things to do and see here, including: a butterfly farm, strawberry farms, rose gardens, a Chinese temple and vegetable farms.

You also have the option to take a jungle trek amongst the cool, refreshing forest air. The region's fertile mountain slopes make it one of the best places in the country to grow tea, and there are many tea plantations. The Cameron Highlands is also a major supplier of vegetables to Malaysia and Singapore.

Days 43 to 44. Kuala Lumpur. Malaysia. 14th to 15th March

We arrive in Malaysia's lively capital. Kuala Lumpur. A major tourist hub. 'KL' (as it is usually referred) is modern, slightly congested, and it offers all the creature comforts of your average major city. High rises abound, shopping is excellent (and one of the city's major attractions) and its bustling day-to-day going's-on provide an insight into Malay business culture. There are many things to do here - both cultural and indulgent. We have two free days to explore the city (and shop) to our heart's content. Why not check out Berjaya Times Square in the Bukit Bintang area. The biggest mall in Asia - where the 8th floor houses a mini theme park consisting of several rollercoasters and white-knuckle rides. You could also visit the tallest twin tower building in the worid, the Petronas Towers. There are also many colonial buildings to visit if you feel like you need a break from the high rises.

Days 45 to 46. Melaka. Malaysia. 16th to 17th March

Melaka is one of Malaysia's most popular destinations and was an important trading port several hundred years ago. There are many attractions in Melaka, from temples to churches, and mosques to museums. The destination is famous for its traditional Chinese Nyonya cuisine, which you can sample from one of the traditional Peranakan shop houses.

Days 47 to 50. Singapore. 18th to 21st March

Singapore may be small in size, but its larger-than-life attitude and modernisation will ensure your visit here is truly unforgettable. A major international hub, the city will house travellers and business people from all over the world at any given time. You would be forgiven for thinking you should be donned in a suit clutching a briefcase as you lose yourself between the ultra-modem high rise buildings. Like any major city, the shopping is excellent here (although not always cheap). There are many historical and cultural sights to see if you are after an insight into the tradition of this fascinating country. Visit Little India and Chinatown for a glimpse into the old way of life of the city.

There is also a Grand Prix Motor Racing Track in Singapore and Tony, Angus and friends were playing motor racing games outside Jenson Button's Garage. Luckily he wasn't trying to park his car at the time.

Days 50 to 58. Phuket. 21st to 29th March

The guided tour has now finished and Angus, Sue and Tony are relaxing in Phuket. A well earned rest before they come back to the UK.