Laos

Departing 19-Nov-2010 to 11-Dec-2010

Modern Laos, landlocked and surrounded by more powerful neighbours, is just emerging from years of isolation and war. It is still relatively untouched by the pressure of tourism and is a fascinating place to visit. It retains a rich architectural and artistic heritage, showing traces of Burmese, Thai and French influence, as well as the cultures of its many ethnic groups.

This comprehensive tour visits three quite different parts of Laos and of the Mekong River: former independent kingdoms in the north and south which succeeded Lan Xang, the mighty Kingdom of a Million Elephants and the White Parasol. It includes the charming World Heritage city of Luang Prabang, the artistic and until 1975, royal capital; Vientiane, the administrative and political capital; the stunning karst scenery of Vang Vieng; the coffee and cardamom country of the Bolavens Plateau; travel on the Mekong to another World Heritage site, Wat Phu and surrounding Champasak, the cradle of Khmer civilisation. We visit traditional villages of the Lao and some of the ethnic minorities, as well as the Khone Falls, the biggest in Asia.

We will have opportunities to experience the Lao culture including the That Luang Festival in Vientiane and a welcoming Baci Ceremony. Our tour offers art, architecture, splendid landscapes, travel by river and elephant, French and Lao cuisine, great opportunities for photography, as well as time to relax and to make your own discoveries. We will also have several opportunities to experience the unique textiles of Laos, which provides one of the main income-generating opportunities for Lao women and play an important part in Lao culture.

This tour is designed for a maximum of 9 participants plus the tour leader. Early bookings will guarantee hotels and domestic flights as per the itinerary.

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