Put down the itinerary, stray from the crowd and make good use of your ‘me’ time with some of these not to be missed experiences. Freedom never felt so good.
YOUR
Find your centre and dip into a traditional Onsen. Ancient practices and tradition come alive in Japan. Take note - you’d hate to miss out.
SPLASH IN PARADISE, BALI
Jump into the underwater mecca of Gili Trawangan. Picture: crystal blue waters begging to be swam in. Casually bump into stingrays, turtles and swim past reef sharks.
FIND
ZEN, JAPAN
RAISE THE BAR, THAILAND
Raise a glass, kick back and unlock some spicy views à la The Hangover style (you know the scene) from Bangkok’s best rooftop bars. Climb high and scan your eyes.
Delicious
FOOD
Some may bring home a tacky souvenir; others a picture-perfect postcard. But that epic feast you ate while on the trip of a lifetime? That’s a memory that will stay with you forever. Dig in!
KATSUDON, JAPAN
Uncover katsudon and dive into a mammoth bowl of rice topped with deep fried pork cutlets, egg and steaming condiments. Treat yo’ self and complete the foodie experience.
DIM SUM, CHINA
It wouldn’t be China without baskets of dim sum. Dig in and work that chopstick magic. Filled with whatever your little foodie heart desires, think pork, prawns or veg, whatever!
PHO, VIETNAM
Get slurping on steaming broth and slinky rice noodles. Honestly, un-pho-gettable. All it takes is one bowl and we promise you’ll be hooked. Satisfy that pho-real craving.
meet our
“SERIOUSLY, ASIA IS UNLIKE ANYWHERE ELSE. FOR ME, NOTHING BEATS SHOWING MY PASSENGERS THROUGH THE STREETS OF CRAZY CAPITALS LIKE BANGKOK AND HO CHI MINH CITY. IT DOESN’T GET BETTER THAN THAT!” -
With a thirst for adventure, an endless stream of knowledge and let’s face it, a keen eye for a hearty meal, our dedicated local Topdeck crew make the best travel pals, ever.
CURIOUS
Keen to learn about our passengers and what feeds their wanderlust.
FRIENDLY
Socially intuitive with an eye for what makes the best trips tick.
PASSIONATE
Embodying the spirit of Topdeck and all the brand represents.
RESPONSIVE
Always in the know about current events and ensures your safety and wellbeing at all times.
words from our
Our crew really are pretty awesome, but don’t just take our word for it. Check out what some of our passengers have to say...
“Best experience of my life! Made friends for life and saw and experienced more things I could only have dreamed of.”
“We had one of the best trips ever, thanks mostly to our crew. Our Trip Leader was always in great spirits, his knowledge was outstanding and his communication was even better.”
“This tour was amazing! Beautiful places, rich history, delicious food, and great people. Definitely do the Felucca sailing if choosing between tours – hands down the best part.”
KELLY, UNITED KINGDOM (GRAND AUSSIE) CAM, AUSTRALIA (MEGA EUROPEAN) JENNIFER, UNITED KINGDOM (EGYPT EXPRESS)
YourStyle Pick
BECAUSE ALL TRAVELLERS ARE DIFFERENT
All travellers are different. Some like creature comforts, others like discovering up-and-coming destinations – some even like a crazy costume hostel party. As long as you have the urge to explore, experience new things and meet awesome people, you’ll find that our trip styles cater to (almost) everyone. BYO fondness for a really good time.
EMM HOI AN, HOI AN, VIETNAM
Hotel
OZO RESORT, KOH SAMUI, THAILAND
Hostel Plus
HOTEL TRIPS
Fit for couples and singles who love creature comforts, our Hotel trips offer private ensuite twin-share/double rooms with all the amenities. Independent stays which are centrally located or close to transport links, you can expect more ‘me-time’.
HOSTEL PLUS TRIPS
Get the most out of your Topdeck trip, without breaking the bank. From modern hostels, hotel upgrades and traditional junk boats, you’ll stay in varied multi-share accommodation. Our most social trip style, Hostel Plus is perfect for fun-seeking travellers.
LUB D HOSTEL, PHUKET, THAILAND
Hotel
OZO RESORT, KOH SAMUI, THAILAND
Fit for couples and singles who love creature comforts, our Hotel trips offer private ensuite twin-share/double rooms with all the amenities. Independent stays which are centrally located or close to transport links, you can expect more ‘me-time’.
WHAT ARE SECTORS?
Sector
10 DAY | SOUTH EAST SPRINT
DAY 1 LUANG PRABANG, LAOS. Laos we’re talking! Begin your trip in the UNESCO World Heritage City of Luang Prabang. Settle in and meet your new travel buds. Ready for adventure? Okay, GO!
DAY 2 LUANG PRABANG. It’s city tour time! Wander the town and take it all in with a local guide. Make time to explore the old quarter in search of a local foodie experience. Oh, and the markets – don’t forget to pick up handfuls of textiles and treats. You’ll love it. (B)
DAY 3 LUANG PRABANG TO VANG VIENG. This morning, we partake in the daily almsgiving of the monks (without cramping their style). Learn a thing or two about humility and Buddhist tradition. Then, our next stop is Vang Vieng – get excited peeps! It’s a traveller's haven calling your name. (B)
DAY 4 VANG VIENG. Grab your paddle and gear up for an optional kayaking sesh in the Nam Song River and splash your way through the day. For the land lovers, how about a spot of rock climbing? Maybe even squeeze in a cave exploring sesh? If you’re after the chilled vibes, grab a book and relax – this is your adventure, enjoy it! (B)
DAY 5 VANG VIENG TO VIENTIANE. Prep your day pack – we’re off on a half day city tour. Pay attention as we visit the historical site Wat Sisaket and former temple Wat Ho Phra Keo housing Laotian art. Then Patuxay, the Victory Monument. To end the day, tonight’s dinner fare is whatever you fancy. (B)
DAY 6 VIENTIANE TO SIEM REAP, CAMBODIA. Today we’re flyin’ to Siem Reap to cross off one of the world’s ‘must-do before you die sights’ in Angkor. Steal a Tomb Raider moment and meet the stoney faces of Bayon, the Ta Prohm temple held up by tree roots, and watch the sunset at Pre Rup temple. (B)
DAY 7 SIEM REAP. Learn a thing or two about life in Cambodia with an optional visit to the headquarters of a local organisation. Your mission tonight: track down the buzzing ‘Pub Street’ bar scene in the centre of town – trust us, it’s the place to be. (B)
DAY 8 SIEM REAP TO PHNOM PENH. Glimmering Phnom Penh awaits us today. Get cracking with a visit
ON THE BUCKET LIST (INCLUDED)
+ Visit Angkor Wat
+ Mekong River boat cruise
+ Giving of the alms
MORE INCLUSIONS
+ 9 breakfasts (B), 1 dinner (D)
+ 9 nights in hotels
+ Small group
+ Awesome Local Trip Leader + Local Guides
+ Guided tours of all major cities
+ Modern air-conditioned vehicle
TOP OPTIONALS
+ Kayaking in Vang Vieng
+ Sunset quad biking in Siem Reap
+ Cooking class in Phnom Penh
to the Royal Palace then round of the second part of today with a sobering visit to Toul Sleng Genocide Museum (optional). Spend the rest of your day at a riverside cafe with the locals and watch the sunset roll down. (B)
DAY 9 PHNOM PENH. Spend the day with optionals galore. Explore the French-built capital, visit the Silk Island village or visit Choeung Ek to learn about the darker side of Cambodia's history. The choice is all yours. Tonight, enjoy a wholesome farewell dinner as we prepare for our goodbyes tomorrow. Cue sad faces. (B,D)
DAY 10 PHNOM PENH. Swap emails as our trip draws to an end – we’re outta here. Round two, anyone? (B)
This is a section of the 27 Day Asian Fusion trip. See p.22 or visit our website.
16 DAY | ROAD TO PHNOM PENH
TOP OPTIONALS
+ Community visit in Siem Reap
+ Kayaking in Vang Vieng
+ Cooking class
DAY 1 BANGKOK, THAILAND. First off the bat: free time to explore before you start ticking off your bucket list with a street eats by tuk tuk food tour. (D)
DAY 2 BANGKOK TO CHIANG MAI. Kick off your Bangkok rush hour with all the sights. Visit the Golden Budda (Wat Traimit), Wat Pho and the Grand Palace. Pack up and onto Chiang Mai via overnight train. (B)
DAY 3 CHIANG MAI. This morning explore Chiang Mai’s old city via trishaw. It’s a temple-monument salad as you stop at Wat Chedi Luang, Wat Puak Tam and the Three Kings Monument. (B)
DAY 4 CHIANG MAI. Today, it’s all you. Complete your foodie experience with an optional cooking class or make like a monkey with the optional Flight of the Gibbon experience. (B)
DAY 5 CHIANG MAI TO CHIANG RAI. Visit Wat Rong Khun (that famous white temple) and view the Golden Triangle from above, then onwards to Chiang Rai. (B,L)
DAY 6 CHIANG RAI TO PAK BENG, LOAS. Cross the Friendship Bridge then climb on board and get cruise-y along the Mekong River. (B,L,D)
DAY 7 PAK BENG TO LUANG PRABANG. This morning we’re back on the Mekong cruisin’ with a quick stop at the local markets. Stop for a tipple at the whiskey village, pass the Pak Ou Caves and arrive in Luang Prabang. (B,L)
DAY 8 LUANG PRABANG. Rise and shine, then make the most of shopping time in the surrounding markets. (B)
DAY 9 LUANG PRABANG TO VANG VIENG. Wake up to the sound of the temple gong, partake in the daily almsgiving of the monks, and descend southwards to Vang Vieng. (B)
DAY 10 VANG VIENG. A free day for optional kayaking on the Nam Song River. If you’re here in wet season: rapids. Any other time: rock climbing mountains and cave exploring. Or just relax. Easy. (B)
DAY 11 VANG VIENG TO VIENTIANE. First up: the historical site Wat Sisaket and former temple Wat Ho Phra Keo housing Laotian art. (B)
ON THE BUCKET LIST (INCLUDED)
+ Bangkok tuk tuk street food tour
+ Chiang Mai city tour by trishaw
+ Visit Wat Rong Khun
+ Mekong river boat cruise
+ Pak Ou Caves
MORE INCLUSIONS
+ 15 breakfasts (B), 3 lunches (L), 3 dinners (D)
+ 14 nights in hotels, 1 night aboard an overnight train
+ Internal flights
+ Small group
+ Awesome Local Trip Leader + Local Guides
+ Guided tours of all major cities
+ Modern air-conditioned vehicle
DAY 12 VIENTIANE TO SIEM REAP, CAMBODIA. Fly to Siem Reap and explore Angkor: meet the stoney faces of Bayon, the Ta Prohm temple held up by tree roots, and watch the sun set at Pre Rup temple. (B)
DAY 13 SIEM REAP. Kick start with an optional visit to the headquarters of a local organisation, hop aboard an ox cart and get blessed by a local monk. Naturally. (B)
DAY 14 SIEM REAP TO PHNOM PENH. Get cracking with a visit to the Royal Palace. Pay an optional visit to the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum. (B)
DAY 15 PHNOM PENH. Spend the day exploring the French-built capital, or visit Silk Island village or the killing fields of Choeung Ek. Tonight: farewell dinner. (B,D)
DAY 16 PHNOM PENH. We’re outta here after brekkie. Time for the next adventure? (B)
This is a section of the 27 Day Asian Fusion trip. See p.22 or visit our website.
PRICE OF €2110
27 DAY | ASIAN FUSION
DAY 1 BANGKOK, THAILAND. First off the bat: free time to explore before you start ticking off your bucket list with a street eats by tuk tuk food tour. (D)
DAY 2 BANGKOK TO CHIANG MAI. Kick off your Bangkok rush hour. Visit the Golden Budda (Wat Traimit), Wat Pho and the Grand Palace. Next, jump on an overnight train to Chiang Mai. (B)
DAY 3 CHIANG MAI. This morning explore Chiang Mai’s old city via trishaw. It’s a temple-monument salad as you stop at Wat Chedi Luang, Wat Puak Tam and the Three Kings Monument. (B)
DAY 4 CHIANG MAI. Today, it’s all yours to take on Chiang Mai. Make like a monkey and join the optional Flight of the Gibbon experience. (B)
DAY 5 CHIANG MAI TO CHIANG RAI. Visit Wat Rong Khun then onwards to Chiang Rai. (B,L)
DAY 6 CHIANG RAI TO PAK BENG, LAOS. Cross the Friendship Bridge then board a Mekong river cruise. (B,L,D)
DAY 7 PAK BENG TO LUANG PRABANG. This morning we’re back on the Mekong cruisin’ with a quick stop to
the local market. Pass the Pak Ou Caves to arrive in Luang Prabang. (B,L)
DAY 8 LUANG PRABANG. Rise and shine for a free day as you wish. Explore Mount Phousi or make the most of shopping time in the surrounding markets. (B)
DAY 9 LUANG PRABANG TO VANG VIENG. Rise to the sound of the temple gong and partake in the daily almsgiving of the monks. Next, descend southwards to Vang Vieng. (B)
DAY 10 VANG VIENG. A free day for optional kayaking on the Nam Song River. If you’re here in wet season: rapids. Any other time: rock climbing mountains and cave exploring. Or just relax? Easy. (B)
DAY 11 VANG VIENG TO VIENTIANE. First up: the historical site Wat Sisaket and former temple Wat Ho Phra Keo housing Laotian art. Then Patuxay, the Victory Monument. (B)
DAY 12 VIENTIANE TO SIEM REAP, CAMBODIA. Fly to Siem Reap and explore Angkor: meet the stoney faces of Bayon, the Ta Prohm temple held up by tree roots, and watch the sunset at Pre Rup temple. (B)
DAY 13 SIEM REAP. Start the day with an optional visit to the headquarters of a local organisation, then hop aboard an ox cart and get blessed by a local monk. (B)
DAY 14 SIEM REAP TO PHNOM PENH. Get cracking with a visit to the Royal Palace. (B)
DAY 15 PHNOM PENH. Spend the day exploring the French-built capital, or visit Silk Island village or the killing fields of Choeung Ek. (B,D)
DAY 16 PHNOM PENH TO HO CHI MINH CITY, VIETNAM. Arrive in HCMC, home to 4 million motorbikes. Kick off the night with banh mi baguettes on an included street eats tour. (B,D)
DAY 17: HO CHI MINH CITY. Wake up in Ho Chi Minh madness. Today, take a trip to the Cu Chi Tunnels. (B,L)
DAY 18 HO CHI MINH CITY TO VINH LONG, MEKONG RIVER. Hop on a boat to peruse Cai Be's floating markets. Stop for lunch at a bonsai gardeners home, then an overnight homestay. (B,L,D)
DAY 19 VINH LONG, MEKONG RIVER TO NHA TRANG. Wake up to another morning in the land of pho and snake wine, then roll to Nha Trang. Rest up at the white powdery beaches. #Winning. (B)
DAY 20 NHA TRANG. Spend your free day lazing on Nha Trang, a kite-running, windsurfing and scuba diving mecca. (B)
DAY 21 NHA TRANG TO HOI AN. Fly to Hoi An’s wellpreserved ancient town and start Snapchatting ASAP. (B)
DAY 22 HOI AN. Hire a bike to explore the countryside, check out the 2 century-old Tan Ky House or enrol in a cooking masterclass. The day is all yours. (B)
DAY 23 HOI AN TO HUE. Drive along Hai Van Pass to Hue. A half day tour to the ancient citadel, then visit smooth operator (and husband to 104 wives) Tu Duc’s Royal Tomb. (B)
DAY 24 HUE TO HANOI. Fly to Hanoi and take on the chaotic Old Quarter and horse-honouring temples. Dinner is at Koto, a restaurant providing training to impoverished children. (B)
DAY 25 HANOI TO HALONG BAY. Cruise time. A day of paddling, swimming, lazing on the sundeck and the bay’s seafood for dinner? Yes please. (B,L,D)
DAY 26 HALONG BAY TO HANOI. Back to Hanoi for one last street food encounter. Relish every mouthful. (B,L,D)
ON THE BUCKET LIST (INCLUDED)
+ Bangkok tuk tuk street food tour
+ Visit Wat Rong Khun
+ Mekong river boat cruise
+ Visit Pak Ou Caves
+ Cu Chi Tunnels tour in Vietnam
+ Hai Van mountain pass
+ Dinner at social enterprise restaurant Koto, Hanoi
MORE INCLUSIONS
+ 26 breakfasts (B), 7 lunches (L), 7 dinners (D)
+ 22 nights hotel, 2 nights overnight train, 1 night homestay, 1 night junk boat
+ Internal flights
+ Small group
+ Guided tours of all major cities
+ Awesome Local Trip Leader + Local Guides
+ Modern air-conditioned vehicle
TOP OPTIONALS
+ Scenic flight in Halong Bay
+ Flight of the Gibbon
+ Khan Toke Village cultural show and traditional dinner START MEET AT 2PM IN BANGKOK
done. Aww! (B)
DAY 27 HANOI. Today, it’s breakfast and then we’re
7 DAY | BAMBOO TRAIL
DAY 1 BEIJING, CHINA. Oh my China! Get excited for incredible city madness and icons calling to be explored, it’s going to be a great trip. Find your bearings then shake hands with your travel buds at an included welcome dinner. Learn the A-Z of chopstick magic and dig in. (D)
DAY 2 BEIJING. No trip to Beijing would be complete without a trip to the Great Wall of China, obvs! Today, we make this happen. Best part? The toboggan down – google it, seriously! Next we’re off to the Sacred Way and the biggest stone archway in China. As the day goes on, keep those eyes peeled for traces of modern and ancient China through the streets. What a treat! Before the sun goes down, it’s all about the the optional Peking Duck dinner. Umm, you had us at Peking. Just sayin’. (B,L)
DAY 3 BEIJING TO XIAN. FYI: It’s all about that bucket list today. We’re here to tick it off, right? Start with Tiananmen Square, the Forbidden City and the Summer Palace. Wow. Don’t forget to charge your camera (or phone?) as there’s oodles of sights calling to be explored. Feeling exhausted? Hungry? Bitta both? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered for food today. Tonight: whip out your sleeping mask – we've got an overnight train to Xian. (B,L,D)
DAY 4 XIAN. Rub those sleepy eyes, wake up and set foot in Xian. ICYMI: you’re in the land of the Terracotta Warriors, and guess what – you’ll see them today! Roll in style on a bike ride around the city wall. If you’re feeling peckish, feast on the optional Tang Dynasty Dumpling Banquet. Those cheeky dumplings might look small but trust us, one serving will leave you hooked. (B,L)
DAY 5 XIAN TO CHENGDU. Today we’re heading south to Chengdu a.k.a PANDA land! Flash your boarding pass and check in together – we’re flyin’! Once you land, freshen up and prepare for tonight's Hot Pot dinner – this one’s on us. Raise those chopsticks. Aww yeah! (B,D)
DAY 6 CHENGDU. Cue ultimate panda-modium and pinch yourself, because today we visit to the Panda Conservation Centre (holy fluff ball!). Shake off the
ON THE BUCKET LIST (INCLUDED)
+ Great Wall of China (including toboggan ride)
+ Visit Tiananmen Square
+ Visit Sacred Way
+ Visit the Forbidden City
+ Terracotta Warriors
+ Visit the world famous teahouses in People's Park
+ Xian city wall bike ride
+ Visit the panda conservation centre
MORE INCLUSIONS
+ 6 breakfasts (B), 4 lunches (L), 3 dinners (D)
+ 5 nights in hotels, 1 night overnight train
+ Flights within China
+ Modern air-conditioned coach
+ Guided tours of all major cities
+ Awesome Local Trip Leader + Local Guides
TOP OPTIONALS
+ Tang dynasty dumpling banquet
+ Sichuan cultural show
+ Peking duck dinner on Ghost Street
panda excitement and visit the Wide and Narrow Alley for a taste of ancient Qing culture. Round off the day with a teahouse visit in People’s Park and join the optional Sichuan Cultural Show. Oh la la, how very cultural of you! (B,L)
DAY 7 CHENGDU. Before you know it, we’re done. Don’t be sad, think about everything you’ve seen! Recap over the good memories then after breakfast say goodbye to your new travel buddies. (B)
This is a section of the 12 Day China Live trip. See p.26 or visit our website.
12 DAY | CHINA LIVE
DAY 1 BEIJING, CHINA. Ni Hao! Welcome to China. After checking in, tonight you’ll get acquainted with your trip peeps at the welcome dinner. Dig in and work that chopstick magic – be quick or miss out. Phew! Soak up those incredible city vibes, it’s going to be a great trip. (D)
DAY 2 BEIJING. After brekkie, begin your Beijing bucket list with a trip to the Great Wall of China –mega tick! Best part? The toboggan down – google it and say ‘wow’. Next we’re off to the Sacred Way and the biggest stone archway in China. How to make this
day more epic? Hit up the optional Peking Duck dinner on Ghost Street. Umm, yum! You had us at Peking. (B,L)
DAY 3 BEIJING TO XIAN. Today is gonna rock: Tiananmen Square, the Forbidden City and the Summer Palace. Seriously, unreal. Oh, and let us take care of all your meals too. Tonight we’re travelling to Xian by sleeper train. (B,L,D)
DAY 4 XIAN. Jump off in Xian. You’re in the land of the Terracotta Warriors, and guess what – you’ll see them
today! Get those legs moving with a bike ride around the city wall to roll in style. Duck off to lunch at the terracotta warriors. Later, visit the Muslim Quarter and if you’re still peckish, optional Tang Dynasty Dumpling Banquet tonight waiting for you. Dig in, you lucky thing! They might look small, but they pack a punch. (B,L)
DAY 5 XIAN TO CHENGDU. Today we’re heading south to Chengdu. Flash your boarding pass and check in together – we’re flyin’! Later, feast on a hot pot dinner this evening. (B,D)
DAY 6 CHENGDU. Wake up and get ready, it’s exploring time. Pinch yourself, because today we roll with a visit to the Panda Conservation Centre (holy cuteness.) Show your love for the endangered balls of fluff and cue ultimate panda-modium. Next, the Wide and Narrow Alley where you’ll get a taste of ancient Qing culture. Finish off with a teahouse visit in People’s Park and join the optional Sichuan Cultural Show for dinner with a side of opera. Very fancy of you. (B,L)
DAY 7 CHENGDU TO YANGSHUO. Say “zài jiàn” to Chengdu, today we’re flying to Yangshuo. Try and score a window seat if you can - you’ll wanna see the mountains. (B)
DAY 8 YANGSHUO. Today go solo or stay in sync with the group. On the activity menu: an optional cooking class, rafting on the Yulong River or the Liu San Jie show with the river as the stage. (B)
DAY 9 YANGSHUO TO LONGSHENG. After brekkie, pack your bags, we’re travelling to Longsheng - land of the rice terraces. Snap n ‘Gram your heart out on the included day tour. Check out the Dragon’s Backbone and spot rice paddies for days. (B,L,D)
DAY 10 LONGSHENG TO SHANGHAI. Today, it’s Shanghai time. Waiting for you: a ticket up the Jin Mao
TRIP
AHCLGA
Tower and a city tour. Still want more? The optional acrobatic show will provide you much wow. (B)
DAY 11 SHANGHAI. Today is all yours. FYI: you’re in Disneyland town, might we suggest a visit? Start swapping numbers and feast into our final dinner together. Aww, cue hugs and sad faces. (B,D)
DAY 12 SHANGHAI. Make sure you’ve added your new buddies on facebook, the trip ends here. The next question is where to next? Start planning. (B)
ON THE BUCKET LIST (INCLUDED)
+ Great Wall of China (including toboggan ride)
+ Visit Tiananmen Square
+ Visit Sacred Way
+ Visit the Forbidden City
+ Visit the Terracotta Warriors
+ Explore the Dragon's Backbone rice terraces
+ Visit the world famous teahouses in People's Park
+ Xian city wall bike ride
+ Visit the panda conservation centre
+ Entry to the 88th floor of the Jin Mao tower in Shanghai
MORE INCLUSIONS
+ 11 breakfasts (B), 5 lunches (L), 5 dinners (D)
+ 10 nights hotel accommodation, 1 night overnight train
+ Flights within China
+ Modern air-conditioned coach
+ Guided tours of all major cities
+ Awesome Local Trip Leader + Local Guides
TOP OPTIONALS
+ Tang Dynasty Dumpling Banquet
+ Rafting on the Yulong River
+ Acrobatic show
7 DAY | BALI ISLAND HOPPER
DAY 1 SEMINYAK TO LEMBONGAN ISLAND, INDONESIA. Meet the crew in Seminyak then get amped to island hop your way around paradise. First up – speedboat to Nusa Lembongan. Keep your eyes peeled for more coral reefs and unreal white sand beaches than you can handle, and then bond over local fare with an included welcome lunch. Later, the afternoon is yours for the taking. (L)
DAY 2 LEMBONGAN ISLAND TO GILI TRAWANGAN. We’re heading northwards to the biggest of the Gili archipelago trio: Gili Trawangan. On arrival, go old school with an included ‘Cimodo’ (horse carriage) to the hotel in style. Then, it’s three days in the snorkelling, diving and cultural mecca of the Gilis. Roam free, and enjoy! (B)
DAY 3 GILI TRAWANGAN. Free day: take one. Want to meet the locals? Join the optional diving and snorkelling tour to casually bump into turtles, rays and reef sharks. Tonight: stroll through the markets and feast your way through satay treats and fresh seafood. (B)
DAY 4 GILI TRAWANGAN. Start your day in the Ibiza of Southeast Asia and watch the sunrise over Lombok’s Mt. Rinjani or take the optional tour around Lombok. Talk about ultimate #islandvibes. (B)
DAY 5 GILI TRAWANGAN TO UBUD. Today we press onto Ubud after speedboating it to Padangbai port. Culture/yoga/nature buff? You’ve come to the right place. Visit Goa Gajah (Elephant Cave), wander round Seniwati Gallery or get up close with the cheeky rascals at the Ubud Monkey Forest. (B)
DAY 6 UBUD. Start with a traditional dance show, before taking on the Tirta Empul hot springs. Next up is Kintamani where you’ll lunch with views over Bali’s largest lake. Then it’s down to the Kopi Luwak plantation, and on past Tegalalang’s rice fields and coconut trees. In the afternoon, venture through the Ubud market and meet for dinner in a local restaurant. Night sorted. (B,L,D)
DAY 7 UBUD TO SEMINYAK. Pack yo’ bags, and prepare to say goodbye. Before we go, make the most of your last day with an optional downhill mountain biking tour or 33-rapid whitewater rafting. (B)
ON THE BUCKET LIST (INCLUDED)
+ Water sports on Lembongan Island
+ Island stays on Bali, Lembongan and Gili Trawangan
+ Cidomo ride
+ Kintamani tour
+ Lake Batur
+ Ubud cultural dance show
MORE INCLUSIONS
+ 6 breakfasts (B), 2 lunches (L), 1 dinner (D)
+ 6 nights in hotels
+ Guided tours of all major cities
+ Awesome Local Trip Leader
+ Modern air-conditioned vehicle and local speedboats between islands
7 DAY | BALI ACTIVE: SURF, CYCLE, YOGA
DAY 1 CANGGU, INDONESIA. Enter paradise and meet your soon to be yogi-surfer-cyclists buddies at your Canggu hideaway. This is your trip, your way. From days 2-4 you can design your own experience. Each day live it up with the option to take either a 2-hour surf lesson with a professional instructor, half day mountain bike tour, or unwind with two yoga classes and Balinese massage. Go wild with choice. Phew! Talk about the ultimate getaway. In-between chills, there’s always coconuts, tanning and Indonesian food eating to be done. Tonight: choose your activity to plan tomorrow’s day. (D)
DAY 2 CANGGU. What activity did you choose? Surf’s up? Yes please. Kick off the day with an included lesson and get acquainted with the lingo, skills and then off you go. Maybe tomorrow we can flex those new skills in a second class before we take on the pro-circuit (or not?). Don’t forget to select tomorrow’s activity. Will it be surf, yoga or cycle? Simply let your Trip Leader know the day before which activity you pick. #Winning. (B,D)
DAY 3 CANGGU. Are you surfing or cycling today? Maybe today we can yoga-it-up together? Learn your downward-dog 101 then transition into the next series. We’re talking warrior one, two, three and more to flow until you can’t flow any more. But wait, we’re not done. Up next comes a one hour luxe Balinese mass-aaah-ge and one more yoga session for the day. Remember: each day, your way. What will tomorrow offer? (B,D)
DAY 4 CANGGU. Wake up, feast on fresh fruit at breakfast. How about we jump on a bike, if you like? Roll in style because really, who needs to walk when you can ride? See how far you can travel then share your finds at dinner tonight. We don’t like to brag, but hey, we love uncovering hidden gems. (B,D)
DAY 5 CANGGU TO UBUD. Today we press onto Ubud. Culture/yoga/nature buffs you've come to the right place. En route to Ubud we visit the Sebatu Village for a temple water blessing. Get in touch with your spiritual side today and participate in the Balinese ritual of purification. (B)
ON THE BUCKET LIST (INCLUDED)
+ Mountain bike tour with instructor
+ Surf lesson with professional instructor
+ Yoga classes & Balinese massage
+ Visit the hidden temple in Sebatu Village
MORE INCLUSIONS
+ 6 breakfasts (B), 5 dinners (D)
+ 6 nights hotel accommodation
+ Awesome Local Trip Leader
+ Guided tours of all major cities
+ Modern air-conditioned vehicle
TOP OPTIONALS
+ High ropes course
+ White water rafting
+ Yoga class
START MEET AT 2PM IN CANGGU FINISH APPROXIMATELY 12PM IN SEMINYAK
DAY 6 UBUD. Free day to do as you please. Craving some adrenaline? Reach up with an optional high ropes course or jump in the deep end with white water rafting. Feeling the chills more? Yoga optional here if you wish. Freshen up and prepare yourself for a farewell dinner. (B,D)
DAY 7 UBUD TO SEMINYAK. Last breakfast then we’re outta here. Look back over your new found surferyoga-bike riding #skills then say goodbye. (B)
9 DAY | MAJESTIC MYANMAR
DAY 1 MANDALAY, MYANMAR. Journey into magical Mandalay. Shake hands and meet your fellow travellers. Marvel at the the untouched vibes of this unreal city then feast your way through a Myanmarstyle welcome dinner. (D)
DAY 2 MANDALAY. Wind your way through the 30 Caves Pagoda, then travel alongside the Ayeyarwady River to see locals and wildlife coexist. For the sunset lovers in the group (umm, maybe all of us?) take the option to watch the sun go down over the world's longest teak (wood) bridge. Cameras and iphones at the ready. (B)
DAY 3 MANDALAY TO BAGAN. Enter Bagan: home to awe-inspiring temples. Here, it’s all about the glistening rooftops and adornment. Hold on while we weave through the temples with an included horse and cart journey for sunset. (B)
DAY 4 BAGAN. Set foot to explore Myanmar's answer to Angkor Wat (minus the swarms of tourists). Pick your mode of transport for the day (optional). Thrill seekers; hold your breath as we climb in a hot air balloon over Bagan, or jump on two wheels (electric or mountain bike) to roll across the area. Before the day is out, navigate through local villages with an optional tour before we meet another awe-inspiring sunset. (B)
DAY 5 BAGAN TO LAKE INLE. Buh-bye Bagan. Wind over to glittering Lake Inle and set foot in the heart of the floating villages. Spot: conical-hat fisherman and their one-of-a kind leg-rowing technique in action. Google it. But maybe leave it for the experts – we wouldn’t want you to fall in now, would we? (B)
DAY 6 LAKE INLE. Rise and shine, fuel up and get ready to explore. Keep an eye out for the good vibes and Buddhism that still takes a strong way of life. Today, experience Lake Inle and its sparkling glory. Prepare yourself for the included day trip via boat to weave through the thriving ecosystems. (B,L)
ON THE BUCKET LIST (INCLUDED)
+ Sagaing half day tour
+ Sunset temple tour of Bagan via horse and cart
+ Guided boat tour of Lake Inle
+ Chinatown street eats tour in Yangon
MORE INCLUSIONS
+ 8 breakfasts (B), 1 lunch (L), 2 dinners (D)
+ 8 nights hotel accommodation
+ Internal flights and local transport between cities
+ Guided tours of all major cities
+ Awesome local Trip Leader
TOP OPTIONALS
+ Hot air balloon over Bagan
+ Burmese cooking class
+ Local village tour in Bagan
DAY 7 LAKE INLE TO YANGON. Travel into Yangon to meet with the 'winking wonder' of Shwedagon Paya. In between historical temples and pagodas, this golden stupa stands out with heart-stopping impact. Before you get too comfortable, squeeze in a half day city tour. (B)
DAY 8 YANGON. Today, free day to explore. Feeling hungry? Complete your foodie mission with an optional cooking class. Tonight, prepare yourself for a farewell street eats tour in Chinatown (B,D)
DAY 9 YANGON. Complicated and layered history aside, we say farewell to Myanmar. It was a special one, hey? Swap numbers and plan that next adventure together. (B)
7 DAY | JAPAN SKI
DAY 1 TOKYO TO HAKUBA, JAPAN. Hurtle to Hakuba on an express train. Your challenge is to try and get a decent picture of one of the snow-covered mountains you zip past. Then meet your local crew and get briefed on where all the fun’s at. This is it. Get excited. (D)
DAY 2 HAKUBA. Cue après-ski Hakuba style in Japan. Find your zen, then flock to the alps and take it at either beginner or ninja pace. Top tip: rent snow shoes to avoid an embarrassing ice dance on the way back. Later, the afternoon is all yours to head out for some yakiniku (grilled meat). (B)
DAY 3 HAKUBA. Jump on the ski lift. Jump off. Ski. Repeat. After a hard (read: fun) day on the slopes, stop for a drink at an izakaya or refuel with a bowl of steaming hot katsu curry. (B)
DAY 4 HAKUBA. If you want to try something a little bit different today, hit up Hakuba 47 snowpark then soak your sore muscles in the Onsen pools. How luxe! (B)
DAY 5 HAKUBA. Take a break from the powder and take the option to visit the snow monkeys. Aww! Missed the powder? You can still ski in the dark. Go for a night ski in renowned Kashimayari at the southern end of Hakuba valley. So. Much. Snow. (B)
DAY 6 HAKUBA. Last recommendations – for the skiers: Goryu and Iwatake for long cruising trails and uninterrupted skiing. For the snowboarders: tree skiing at Cortina’s ungroomed trails and terrain parks, half-pipes, gullies and powder bowls in Hakuba. Dig into a farewell dinner tonight on the slopes. No one likes to brag, but we do love sharing stories of our new found skills. Cue hugs and goodbyes before we head off tomorrow. (B,D)
DAY 7 HAKUBA TO TOKYO. Pack your bags and take one last chance to carve the morning powder. Then, jump on an express train back to Tokyo in the afternoon. Swap numbers and plan that reunion for the next ski adventure. (B)
ON THE BUCKET LIST (INCLUDED)
+ Express train to and from Hakuba
+ Welcome & farewell dinner
MORE INCLUSIONS
+ 6 breakfasts (B), 2 dinners (D)
+ 6 day ski lift pass
+ 6 nights in a hotel
+ Small group
+ Awesome Trip Leader
12 DAY | JAPAN HIGHLIGHTS
DAY 1 TOKYO, JAPAN. Sushi trains, karaoke, gadgets, temples and the cat cafes. Get excited, get very excited. Meet the group, and bond over a welcome dinner. Work that chopstick magic. (D)
DAY 2 TOKYO. Ninja-roll out of bed and start with a full day city tour. Also, Shinjuku and Harajuku = amazing! Take the option to visit the Robot Restaurant – it’s legit. (B)
DAY 3 TOKYO. Free day to hit the ground running for your last day in Tokyo drift. Head over to Odaiba, the man-made island in Tokyo Bay or check out Akihabara, where stores scream for the attention of anime fans and gamers. Alternatively, visit the happiest place on earth: Tokyo Disneyland (optional). (B)
DAY 4 TOKYO TO TAKAYAMA. This morning we pack our bags and travel at 320 km/h on the bullet train before heading up to the Japanese Alps. Tonight stay in a ryokan – a traditional Japanese inn. (B)
DAY 5 TAKAYAMA. Visit the Takayama Jinya – the last remaining government building from Samurai and Shogun times – and try a tipple of sake on a brewery tour, before an afternoon visit to the open air Hida No Sato folk village. (B)
DAY 6 TAKAYAMA TO HIROSHIMA VIA MIYAJIMA. Jump on a ferry to Miyajima with its wild deer and shrines galore. End your island jaunt watching the sunset behind the floating torii gate. (B)
DAY 7 HIROSHIMA TO KOYASAN. First up to Hiroshima: the Peace Museum to pay respects to the victims of the atomic bombing. Make your way to Mount Koya, one of the world’s most sacred mountains. Stay in a local guesthouse and participate in a traditional Buddhist meal. (B,D)
DAY 8 KOYASAN TO KYOTO. Explore the cobblestone walkway lined with Shinto torii gates to the Okunoin mausoleum and it’s 10,000 lantern Torodo Hall. Later, drop anchor in Kyoto for three days. Japan’s traditional capital, Kyoto is home to over 2,000 temples and shrines. It’s also the prime manufacturing hub for kimonos – a good place to pick up some new threads. In the afternoon, flex your freedom and visit the Gion district where it’s perfectly normal to spot Geishas. (B)
DAY 9 KYOTO. Find your zen place at the Kinkakuji Golden Pavillion and Ryoan-ji Garden temples all before lunch. Have you had your udon noodle fix yet? Note to self: essential. This afternoon you’re off to Nijo Castle to channel your inner samurai and Heian Shrine – built to honour the anniversary of the capital’s foundation in Kyoto. (B)
DAY 10 KYOTO. Get out of town and go on a day trip to Nara, where you’ll no doubt bump into one of the many deer who wander the streets. Do the optional and dress up like a Geisha, or catch up on your Japanese beer education in an izakaya. (B)
DAY 11 KYOTO TO OSAKA. Today, visit the Instaworthy corridors of torii gates at the Fushimi Inari Taisha shrine. Land in Osaka via train. (B,D)
DAY 12 OSAKA. After breakfast it’s sayonara to the Land of the Rising Sun. Swap numbers and plan that next adventure together – it’s never too soon. (B)
ON THE BUCKET LIST (INCLUDED)
+ Hida No Sato folk village
+ Sake brewery tour
+ Hiroshima Peace Museum
+ Traditional Buddhist prayer service
+ Shibuya Crossing
+ Visit Harajuku
+ Visit the Gion District
MORE INCLUSIONS
+ 11 breakfasts (B), 3 dinners (D)
+ 8 nights in hotels, 2 nights in a ryokan, 1 night in a guesthouse
+ Small group
+ Guided tours of all major cities
+ Awesome Local Trip Leader
+ Japan Rail Pass
TOP OPTIONALS
+ Geisha and Samurai photoshoot
+ Tokyo Disneyland
+ Visit the Robot Restaurant
DAY 1 BANGKOK, THAILAND. Touch down in Bangkok and find your feet in the capital. Meet the group and freshen up for tonight's entertainment – and by entertainment we mean adventure (duh!). We’re talking must-be-seen-to-be-believed-super-chargedstreet-eats tour via the best type of transport. Can you guess how we roll? You got it! It’s all about the tuk tuk – vroom vroom and yum yum! (D)
DAY 2 BANGKOK TO CHIANG MAI. Shake off last night's excitement and prepare for today’s escapades. Visit Wat Traimit, then suss out the ever-relaxed reclining Buddha of Wat Pho. Last but not least, check in with the glittering Grand Palace. Phew! What a day. Next, we’re ticking off all the transport with our first overnight train of the trip. Wake up, new destination. Easy. Be sure to dream of tomorrow's adventures in Chiang Mai. (B)
DAY 3 CHIANG MAI. For obvious reasons, no trip to Thailand would be complete without stepping into Chiang Mai – the heart of the north. Today, get acquainted with the old city via trishaw. Spot the moats and medieval styles that dominate the city, then keep your eyes peeled for the smiling faces of the locals. Go for the hat-trick of temples as you stop at Wat Chedi Luang, Wat Puak Tam and the Three Kings Monument. Spend the rest of the night exploring the local cafe and restaurant scene and continue your #livelikealocal mission.(B)
DAY 4 CHIANG MAI. Today, it’s all yours to take on Chiang Mai. Act like a monkey – but don’t make a fool of yourself, and join the optional Flight of the Gibbon experience. For the foodies, we have an optional cooking class for you to flex your skills. For dinner, it’s all you to go hunting for local Thai fare in the streets of Chiang Mai. (B)
DAY 5 CHIANG MAI TO CHIANG RAI. Visit Wat Rong Khun and view the Golden Triangle from above, then onwards to Chiang Rai. Before the day is out, soak up as much Thai-ness as you can before we say farewell tomorrow. (B,L)
ON THE BUCKET LIST (INCLUDED)
+ Bangkok tuk tuk street food tour
+ Visit Wat Rong Khun
MORE INCLUSIONS
+ 5 breakfasts (B), 1 lunch (L), 1 dinner (D)
+ 4 nights in hotels & 1 night aboard an overnight train
+ Small group
+ Awesome Local Trip Leader + Local Guides
+ Guided tours of all major cities
+ Modern air-conditioned vehicle
TOP OPTIONALS
+ Flight of the Gibbon
+ Khan Toke Village cultural show and traditional dinner
DAY 6 CHIANG RAI. All good things come to an end. The good news? You’re already in Asia so you might as well continue the adventure, yes? Swap FB deets and phone numbers with your new BFF’S. (B)
This is a section of the 27 Day Asian Fusion trip. See p.22 or visit our website.
BANGKOK CHIANG RAI
7 DAY | THAI ISLANDS KO-CONUT HOPPER
DAY 1 PHUKET, THAILAND. Make your way to the hotel to meet and greet the crew and start planning tomorrow’s adventures. Feast on a welcome dinner and catch some zzz’s before tomorrow’s kick off. (D)
DAY 2 PHUKET. Start your morning with an optional trip to Coral Island & Racha Island. Any guesses what we’ll find here? That’s right – coral reefs that will make your jaw drop. If that wasn’t enough, we’ve got flawless beaches and white sand for you to soak up the salty goodness. Got problems? Not in the ocean. Paddle in its calm waters and enjoy. If you prefer to stay on the mainland, go forth and explore artsy coffee shops, eccentric local galleries and bright textiles stores so you can shop until the sun goes down. (B)
DAY 3 PHUKET TO KRABI. Pack up out of Phuket and arrive into the insanely pretty town of Krabi. Grab a coconut, jump into 50 shades of blue waters then work on your tan. For the kayakers, jump on the optional activity and paddle around mangroves in Ao Thalane. (B)
DAY 4 KRABI. Can you say para-para-paradise? Look up and around – you’re surrounded by all things that make Krabi so special. After you’ve found your bearings in and around town, how about a beach sesh? If that doesn’t cut it, journey to oh-so-pretty Railay Island with the optional day trip. Here we find rock caves, secret lagoons and some more big ol’ beautiful limestone cliffs. Climb to a rooftop cafe if time allows and watch the sun go down. (B)
DAY 5: KRABI TO KOH PHI PHI. Majestic and relaxed Koh Phi Phi is all yours today as we love and leave Krabi behind us. With no cars on the island, Koh Phi Phi is a walking haven to explore and get lost in the back streets. Make the most of beach chills or set foot in the quirky town for souvenirs and goodies to take home. (B)
DAY 6 KOH PHI PHI. This morning’s schedule is clear for you to check out one more swimming spot. Prepare for tonight’s farewell dinner. Start swapping numbers and Facebook deets. You might never want to leave (we wouldn’t either) (B,D)
ON THE BUCKET LIST (INCLUDED)
+ Island stays on Phuket and Koh Phi Phi
+ Ferry transfer between islands
+ Welcome & farewell dinner
MORE INCLUSIONS
+ 6 breakfasts (B) , 2 dinners (D)
+ 6 nights in hotels
+ Guided tours of all major cities
+ Awesome Local Trip Leader
TOP OPTIONALS
+ Kayaking at Ao Thalane
+ Visit Railay Island
+ Coral Island day trip
DAY 7 KOH PHI PHI TO PHUKET. After breakfast we’re off home — you might want to stick around to work on that tan. And have one last coconut. Obvs. (B)
7 DAYS FROM
EUR PER PERSON
7 DAY | THAI ISLANDS SAMUI SUNSETS
DAY 1 KOH SAMUI, THAILAND. Make your way to the hotel and kick off your journey with a cocktail and chills by the pool. Tonight, feast on a welcome dinner and get to know your island hopper buds. You’re in paradise – soak it up, make the most of it and prepare for the next few days of excitement. (D)
DAY 2 KOH SAMUI. Snorkel enthusiasts can feast on an optional full day tour as you splash your way around Angthong Island. Zoom around the marine park and keep your eyes peeled for sea life and unreal blue water. While you’re there, throw in a swim stop and get selfie-ing, too. Lunch is on the boat. Because #paradise. (B)
DAY 3 KOH SAMUI TO KOH PHANGAN. Take one last dip with the coral before we head north to the smaller (but no less epic) island Koh Phangan. Notorious for its eccentric wildlife, this island is no stranger to a good time and awesome music. Spend the afternoon getting acquainted with the place and find your bearings through the town. Later, the evening is all yours to explore and find your own Thai nook for dinner. (B)
DAY 4 KOH PHANGAN. Free day = your day, your way. If you tire of hanging out in a hammock sipping on fresh coconut juice, head north on a long tail boat or make tracks to explore the quieter beaches. (B)
DAY 5 KOH PHANGAN TO KOH TAO. On to Koh Samui and Koh Phangan’s baby, Koh Tao. Diving here is like ticking off Mount Everest for climbers, so be sure to don your snorkel and join an optional diving group. Dip into the water for a swim. And another. Maybe one more? Ooh you lucky thang! (B)
DAY 6 KOH TAO. If you’re not in the water soaking up the sun, sea and good vibes, there’s hiking, rock climbing and bouldering for the adventure seekers. Want to flop down for the entire day one last time? Head to Chalok Baan Khao towards the south –perfect for lazing. If you’re in the mood for a hike, make your way to Ao Plaay Laem for the best damn sunset this side of the country. Make sure to return for tonight's farewell dinner where we give our hugs and goodbyes before we depart tomorrow. (B,D)
ON THE BUCKET LIST (INCLUDED)
+ Island stays on Koh Samui, Koh Phangan, Koh Tao
+ Welcome dinner in Koh Samui
+ Farewell dinner in Koh Tao
MORE INCLUSIONS
+ 6 breakfasts (B) , 2 dinners (D)
+ 6 nights in hotels
+ All ferries to Koh Tao, Koh Phangan and Koh Samui
+ Guided tours of all major cities
+ Awesome Local Trip Leader
TOP OPTIONALS
+ Angthong Island day trip
+ Scuba diving in Koh Tao
+ Snorkelling day trip
DAY 7 KOH TAO TO KOH SAMUI. The trip ends after we arrive back in Koh Samui as we say our goodbyes. If you have a few extra days, why not keep exploring? (B)
13 DAY | MY THAI
DAY 1 BANGKOK TO PHUKET, THAILAND. Oh my Thai! It’s Bangkok time – hope you’re ready for this! Meet the group but don’t get too comfortable, we’re soarin’ and flyin’ to Phuket today. Settle in, then dive head first into a welcome dinner with the group. Yum! (D)
DAY 2 PHUKET. Beach-a-holics and snorkel enthusiasts can feast on an optional trip to Coral Island and Racha Island or Rok Island and Haa Island. Later, hit the streets on your own (or with company?) and find a saucy pad-thai or local foodie treats. (B)
DAY 3 PHUKET TO KRABI. Ao Thalane is calling for a kayaking sesh (optional). Grab your paddle (and coconut) then make waves. (B)
DAY 4 KRABI. It’s all about Krabi today with a slice of Railay beach as an optional side. In Railay hit up rock caves, secret lagoons and some big ol’ limestone cliffs. So many chills in paradise. (B)
DAY 5 KRABI TO KOH PHI PHI. Check into insanely pretty Koh Phi Phi today. (B)
DAY 6 KOH PHI PHI. This morning’s schedule is calling for one more swim. And another. Maybe one more? (B,D)
DAY 7 KOH PHI PHI BANGKOK. Buh-bye Koh Phi Phi and touch down into Bangkok madness. Watch the city sparkle as you roam the streets. (B)
DAY 8 BANGKOK. Explore like a Bangkokian (it’s a word) and get your culture fix today at your own pace. Later, watch the city sparkle as you zip through the streets on an included street eats tour. Mode of transport? Tuk-tuk, duh! (B,D)
DAY 9 BANGKOK TO CHIANG MAI. More love for the capital today as we tick off the Bangkok bucket list. It’s a half day city tour – so get the cameras ready and start snapping. Tonight, it’s all about the overnight train. Get comfy and catch some zzz’s. (B)
DAY 10 CHIANG MAI. Another mode of transport to tick off. Jump in a trishaw for the included city tour and cruise through the awe-inspiring old town in style.(B)
ON THE BUCKET LIST (INCLUDED)
+ Bangkok street eats tour via tuk tuk
+ Welcome & farewell dinner
+ Guided tour of Chiang Mai via trishaw
+ Visit Wat Rong Khun
+ Visit Koh Phi Phi
MORE INCLUSIONS
+ 12 breakfasts (B), 1 lunch (L), 3 dinners (D)
+ 11 nights in hotels & 1 night overnight train
+ Included flights between cities
+ Guided tours of all major cities
+ Awesome Local Trip Leader
TOP OPTIONALS
+ Flight of the Gibbon
+ Kayaking at Ao Thalane
+ Cooking class
DAY 11 CHIANG MAI. Oww yeah, free day alert! How about an optional cooking class? Learn from local legends then brag about your new found skills later. For the adrenaline seekers, unleash your inner monkey with an optional Flight of the Gibbon adventure. (B)
DAY 12 CHIANG MAI TO CHIANG RAI. Be inspired by the best damn handful of temples on offer today. It’s all about the Wat Rong Khun ‘White Temple’ and Golden Triangle. Wow. (B,L)
DAY 13 CHIANG RAI TO BANGKOK. Head south back into Bangkok. Nothing lasts forever, and sadly we’re outta here today. Too soon for the next adventure? (B)
This trip is a combination of the 7 day Thai Islands KoConut Hopper and the 6 day Tuk Tuk Express. Please be aware that there will be change of crew throughout the trip. Passengers may also join or leave along the way.
13 DAYS FROM
14 DAY | CLASSIC THAILAND
DAY 1 BANGKOK TO KOH SAMUI, THAILAND. Alright Bangkok, let’s do this. See the capital come alive and see Bangkok sparkle for your first ‘wow’ moment. Tonight: jump on an overnight sleeper train to Koh Samui. Settle in and catch some zzz’s.
DAY 2 KOH SAMUI. Rise and shine, we’re almost there. Jump off in Surat Thani then ferry to Koh Samui. Check in, relax and get swimming, oww yeah! (B,D)
DAY 3 KOH SAMUI. Oh Koh Samui, you beautiful thing! Today is free to make the most of beach chills. For the snorkel fiends jump on an optional half day trip to Koh Tan island. Throw on the snorkel and get exploring. Naturally. (B)
DAY 4 KOH SAMUI TO KOH PHANGAN. You know that notorious island Koh Phangan, right? Today, we check in and see what it’s all about. (B)
DAY 5 KOH PHANGAN. It’s all free time and fun-loving in paradise today. Soak it up and dip your toes in Hat Rin Nok Beach (Sunrise Beach) where coconut trees meet sandy white beach. Ah-maze! (B)
DAY 6 KOH PHANGAN TO KOH TAO. Roll into snorkeland-scuba-diving-paradise a.k.a Koh Tao. (B)
DAY 7 KOH TAO. Grab your coconut and take your pick of today's optional activities. Flex your freedom and go scuba diving or take a snorkelling trip. FYI: we’re talking diving mecca right here, don’t miss your chance. (B,D)
DAY 8 KOH TAO TO BANGKOK. High five Bangkok and shake hands with the buzzing capital. (B)
DAY 9 BANGKOK. Tonight: sink your teeth into the best damn street food that this city has to offer. Hungry? Good. This one’s for you. (B,D)
DAY 10 BANGKOK TO CHIANG MAI. How about those Bangkok sights? It’s a half day city tour - so get the cameras ready and start insta-snapping. Tonight: overnight train take two. (B)
DAY 11 CHIANG MAI. Open your eyes – you’ve arrived in Chiang Mai. Today you’re rollin’ in style by trishaw around the city. On the menu for tonight? An optional Khan Toke Village cultural show and dinner, if you wish. (B)
ON THE BUCKET LIST (INCLUDED)
+ Guided tour of Bangkok
+ Guided tour of Chiang Mai via trishaw
+ Visit the Thai Islands of Koh Samui, Koh Phangan and Koh Tao
+ Visit Wat Rong Khun
MORE INCLUSIONS
+ 13 breakfasts (B), 1 lunch (L), 3 dinners (D)
+ 11 nights in hotels & 2 nights on overnight train
+ Included flights between cities and local transport
+ Guided tours of all major cities
+ Awesome Local Trip Leader
TOP OPTIONALS
+ Flight of the Gibbon
+ Koh Tan snorkelling tour
+ Cooking class
DAY 12 CHIANG MAI. Today, it’s all you. Hot foot around the city at your own pace. Daredevils can make like a monkey with an optional Flight of the Gibbon treetop adventure and for the foodies: an optional cooking class. (B)
DAY 13 CHIANG MAI TO CHIANG RAI. Wake up, it’s temple time. Today it’s all about Wat Rong Kun ‘White Temple’ and the Golden Triangle. Get the camera ready for THAT shot. (B,L)
DAY 14 CHIANG RAI TO BANGKOK. Tap out of Chiang Rai and fly into Bangkok. Swap numbers, because we’re outta here today. Aww! (B)
This trip is a combination of the 7 day Thai Islands Samui Sunsets and the 6 day Tuk Tuk Express. Please be aware that there will be change of crew throughout the trip. Passengers may also join or leave along the way.
7 DAY | HIGH ROAD TO HANOI
DAY 1 HOI AN, VIETNAM. Start the trip with the best of the best. We’re talking all the Hoi An feels, and you’re gonna love it! Spend 10 minutes in this gorgeous town and you’ll never want to leave. Check in with your travel buddies and find your bearings across the old town. For tonight's dinner fare, find a bowl of pho and satisfy pho-real cravings (see what we did there?).
DAY 2 HOI AN. Rise and shine, it’s Hoi An time! The option is here for a half day vegetable village tour, or learn a thing or two in an optional cooking classHoi An is a culinary mecca! Stroll over the Japanese Covered Bridge or visit the Cam Nam Village – just a short boat, skip and a jump away. Top tip: If you’re in the mood for tailor made garments and shoes, you’ve come to the right place. Known for its skilled tailors in the Old Town we suggest getting in quick to allow time for fittings and construction of the garments. How fancy! (B)
DAY 3 HOI AN TO HUE. Drive along Hai Van Pass to Hue. A half day tour to the ancient citadel, then visit smooth operator (and husband to 104 wives) Tu Duc’s Royal Tomb. Later, dinner is all you. Grab a travel bud or roam solo and find the best restaurants and bars tucked away in Hue. (B)
DAY 4 HUE TO HANOI. Fly high (grab a window seat) en route to the bustling capital the country, Hanoi. Spot the the one pillar pagoda and the temple of literature as you weave through the Old Quarter. (B)
DAY 5 HANOI TO HALONG BAY. Cruise time, yes please! Today we roll onwards to the oh-so-pretty Halong Bay. Float through emerald waters and weave between endless limestone pillars. This is Vietnamese paradise that you can’t argue with. Maybe a quick kayak sesh, then tuck into dinner onboard. Umm, yes please! (B,L,D)
DAY 6 HALONG BAY TO HANOI. Wake up and go for one last dip in the big blue. Ah-maz-ing! Back to Hanoi for one last food encounter. Tonight’s dinner fare is at Koto, a restaurant providing training to impoverished children. Relish every moment and prepare for our goodbyes tomorrow. (B,L,D)
ON THE BUCKET LIST (INCLUDED)
+ Hai Van mountain pass
+ Dinner at social enterprise restaurant Koto, Hanoi
+ Visit the Natural Preservation Zone at Cat Ba National Park
+ Sail Halong Bay
MORE INCLUSIONS
+ 6 breakfasts (B), 2 lunches (L), 2 dinners (D)
+ 5 nights in hotels & 1 night on a junk boat
+ Small group
+ Awesome Local Trip Leader + Local Guides
+ Guided tours of all major cities
+ Modern air-conditioned vehicle
TOP OPTIONALS
+ Scenic flight in Halong Bay
+ Street eats dinner in Hanoi
+ Cooking class
DAY 7 HANOI. Today, it’s breakfast and then we’re done. Onto the next adventure? We’ll see you soon. (B)
This is a section of the 27 Day Asian Fusion trip. See p.22 or visit our website.
Guaranteed
7 DAYS FROM
EUR PER PERSON
MEALS 10 COUNTRY 1
HOI AN HANOI
DAY 1 HO CHI MINH CITY, VIETNAM. Ho Chi Minh City is home to 10 million people and 10 million times the craziness – this city isn’t afraid to make some noise. Tonight prepare yourself for a food explosion and dive head first into a street eats tour. Try the wonderful and the weird (if you’re feeling brave.) Think: all the food! (D)
DAY 2 HO CHI MINH CITY. Open your peepers for an early start down to the Cu Chi tunnels tour through the countryside. Today they are seen as a testimony to the Vietnamese people’s resiliency. Have you slurped some pho yet? A.k.a steaming broth and oodles of rice noodles? By the end of the trip, cravings will be pho-real (Seriously!). Back in Ho Chi Minh, stroll your way to the Municipal Theatre and on to the Reunification Palace. Before the day is out, round off with a sesh at a rooftop bar in the backstreets. Also, lemongrass tofu, just do it. Thank us later. (B,L)
DAY 3 HO CHI MINH CITY TO VINH LONG, MEKONG RIVER. Hop on a boat to peruse Cai Be's floating markets that teem with fruit, vegetables and traditional goodies. Stop for lunch at a bonsai gardeners home, then it’s on to an overnight homestay. (B,L,D)
DAY 4 VINH LONG TO NHA TRANG. Wake up to another morning in the land of pho and snake wine. Later, onto Nha Trang. Touch down and rest up at the white powdery beaches of Vietnam’s most popular seaside resort town, or search for markets. Either way you’re winning. (B)
DAY 5 NHA TRANG. Spend your free day lazing in Nha Trang and it’s 50 shades of blue ocean. Dinner options sorted: find plenty of fresh seafood caught in the morning for dinner. (B)
DAY 6 NHA TRANG TO HOI AN. Fly upwards to Hoi An – known for its mish mash of architecture. We’re talking major UNESCO World Heritage site alert, seriously wow. Once you step foot into the Old Town, we promise you’ll be hooked on Hoi An. Watch and learn as we make tracks through the city on a guided tour. On the menu tonight: an optional street eats tour, because why not? Raise those chopsticks and
ON THE BUCKET LIST (INCLUDED)
+ Ho Chi Minh City street eats tour
+ Cu Chi tunnels tour
+ Cai Be floating markets
MORE INCLUSIONS
+ 7 breakfasts (B), 2 lunches (L), 2 dinners (D)
+ 6 nights in hotels, 1 night on an overnight train
+ Small group
+ Guided tours of all major cities
+ Awesome Local Trip Leader + Local Guides
TOP OPTIONALS
+ Mud baths in Nha Trang
+ Hoi An cooking class
+ Lady Hau Dinner Cruise
prepare for more pho-nomenal treats. Expect French colonial buildings, Chinese shophouses, Vietnamese tube houses and the Japanese Covered Bridge. (B)
DAY 7 HOI AN. Day two in this cultural melting-pot mecca. Get your culture fix today at your own pace and hire a bike in the countryside. For those who like to get down and cookin’, take the optional cooking masterclass then break out your new found skills later. (B)
DAY 8 HOI AN. Today, we say buh-bye as we roll out of here after breakfast. You’re on your own, but that doesn't mean you can’t keep exploring. Until next time! (B)
This is a section of the 27 Day Asian Fusion trip. See p.22 or visit our website.
HO CHI MINH CITY HOI AN
12 DAY | VIETNAM UNCOVERED
TOP OPTIONALS
+ Scenic flight over Halong Bay
+ Hoi An cooking class
+ Lady Hau dinner cruise
DAY 1 HO CHI MINH CITY, VIETNAM. Ho Chi Minh City is home to 10 million people and 4 million motorbikes. Tonight prepare yourself for a food explosion downtown at with the included street eats tour. Try the wonderful and the weird (if you’re feeling brave.) (D)
DAY 2 HO CHI MINH CITY. Early to rise for your Cu Chi tunnels tour. Later that afternoon in HCMC, stroll to the Municipal Theatre, the Reunification Palace and the War Remnants Museum. (B,L)
DAY 3 HO CHI MINH CITY TO VINH LONG, MEKONG RIVER. Hop on a boat to peruse Cai Be's floating markets that teem with fruit, vegetables and goodies. Stop for lunch, then it’s on to an overnight homestay. (B,L,D)
DAY 4 VINH LONG TO NHA TRANG. Wake up to another morning in the land of pho and snake wine. Later, onto Nha Trang. Touch down and rest up at the white powdery beaches of Vietnam’s most popular seaside resort town, or search for markets. Either way you’re winning (B)
DAY 5 NHA TRANG. Spend your free day lazing in Nha Trang, a kite-running, windsurfing and scuba diving mecca. (B)
DAY 6 NHA TRANG TO HOI AN. Fly upwards to Hoi An – known for its mish mash of architecture. Expect French colonial buildings, Chinese shophouses, Vietnamese tube houses and the Japanese Covered Bridge. (B)
DAY 7 HOI AN. Day two in this cultural melting-pot mecca. Hire a bike in the countryside and get to know the outskirts, enrol in a cooking masterclass conducted by a local chef or stand in awe at the 2 century-old Tan Ky House. (B)
DAY 8 HOI AN TO HUE. Drive along the Hai Van Pass, one of Vietnam’s most beautiful stretches and into former imperial capital, Hue. Take a half day tour with a trip to the ancient walled citadel housing the former Imperial Palace. (B)
ON THE BUCKET LIST (INCLUDED)
+ Ho Chi Minh City street eats tour
+ Cu Chi tunnels tour
+ Cai Be floating markets
+ Hanoi street eats tour
+ Hai Ban Pass
+ Cruise in Halong Bay
+ Dinner at social enterprise restaurant Koto, Hanoi
MORE INCLUSIONS
+ 11 breakfasts (B), 4 lunches (L), 4 dinners (D)
+ 8 nights in hotels, 1 night homestay, 1 night on a junk boat & 1 night on an overnight train
+ Internal flights
+ Small group
+ Guided tours of all major cities
+ Awesome Local Trip Leader + Local Guides
DAY 9 HUE TO HANOI. Fly up the coast as you take on the big city capital of Hanoi. (B)
DAY 10 HANOI TO HALONG BAY. Cruise time. A day of paddling, swimming, lazing on the sundeck? Yes please. Return back to just in time to watch the sunset from the top deck before tucking in to the bay’s freshest seafood for dinner. (B,L,D)
DAY 11 HALONG BAY TO HANOI. Back in the capital, get the feels with dinner at Koto – an acronym for ‘Know One Teach One’, a restaurant that provides training and life skills to street children. (B,L,D)
DAY 12 HANOI. Today, it’s breakfast then we’re outta here. Okay, maybe one last bowl of pho then it's all over. (B)
This is a section of the 27 Day Asian Fusion trip. See p.22 or visit our website.
HO CHI MINH CITY HANOI
Hostel Plus
Get the most out of your Topdeck trip, without breaking the bank. From modern hostels, hotel upgrades and traditional junk boats, you’ll stay in varied multi-share accommodation. Our most social trip style, Hostel Plus is perfect for funseeking travellers.
WHAT ARE SECTORS?
Sector trips offer you a great way to choose a departure city, set of experiences or journey length that best suits you. A Sector trip is part of a larger journey, meaning your new friends might continue on after you leave, or you might be joining a trip already in progress.
TRIP LENGTH 5-12 DAYS ROOM TYPES MULTI-SHARE
5 DAY | SUNSETS & BEACHES
DAY 1 PHUKET, THAILAND. Time for Phuket. YES! Known to some as the ‘pearl of the Andaman’, call it what you want – you know it will be a great time. Drop your bags and prepare for a nomfest of street food and bond with your new travel buds. Hungry? Good. This one’s for you. See the streets come alive as you explore the colourful blend of cultures and influences that make Phuket sparkle. Rest up and prepare for the next few days of fun times and beach lovin’. (D)
DAY 2 PHUKET. Throw on your flip flops, grab your beach towel then kick back with a coconut. FYI: you’re surrounded by some of the world's best beaches, so enjoy and get exploring! Live it up with a free day to do as you please. Fill the day by sipping on a sample of local brews with a visit to a rum distillery with an expert guide (optional). For the adventure fiends, let’s talk about the tree top zip-lining optional. Tonight, dinner is all you – go forth and explore the streets for local treats. (B)
DAY 3 PHUKET TO KRABI. Rub those eyes, wake up and make your way to the big blue. Got problems? Not in the ocean. Just remember, salt and sun cure everything. Roam free in Krabi, taking selfies and just generally being awesome. Take the option to paddle your way across the 50 shades of blue surrounding Krabi. On this island, it’s all about the sunsets and the beach – exactly why you came here, right? Find a steaming dish of pad thai, grab a satay stick and end the day on a high. Cocktails by the beach, anyone? (B)
DAY 4 KRABI. Beach-a-holics rejoice! From one paradise to another, it just keeps getting better and today is no exception. Free day (hurray!) with more Krabi love as we spend the afternoon chillin’, cookin’ or climbin’, before the day is out. Thrill seekers, talk to us about rock climbing, we’ll look after you. If that isn’t enough to keep you entertained, just around the corner is a hidden gem of an island – Railay. Explore the caves and keep your peepers peeled for some big ol’ limestone cliffs. Tonight say buh-bye to your new besties at the farewell dinner. (B,D)
DAY 5 KRABI TO BANGKOK. Relaxed and revitalized after the last few days in paradise, today we end our short but sweet jaunt in Thailand. Grab all the
ON THE BUCKET LIST (INCLUDED)
+ Phuket street eats tour
+ Farewell dinner
MORE INCLUSIONS
+ 4 breakfasts (B), 2 dinners (D)
+ 4 nights in hostel & hotel accommodation
+ Local transport between cities
+ Guided tours of all major cities
+ Awesome Local Trip Leader
TOP OPTIONALS
+ Rum distillery tour
+ Cooking class
+ Half day rock climbing
deets of your new BFF’s – you’ll need to plan the next adventure somehow. (B)
This is a section of the 12 Day Bangkok to Beaches trip. See p.46 or visit our website.
PHUKET BANGKOK
8 DAY | PAD THAI IN PARADISE
DAY 1 BANGKOK, THAILAND. Ready. Set. Go! It’s Bangkok time – prepare for the next few days of adventure. If you arrive early, fill up on culture at the 100+ museums and get lost in nearby temples. Find your feet in the city, meet the group and and hit the streets for a food tour by tuk tuk. How awesome?! (D)
DAY 2 BANGKOK. The sights of Bangkok are calling – rise and shine, or you’ll miss out! Feast on brekkie, then prepare for today’s city tour as we cover the A-Z of this beautiful, buzzing city. For the record, we’re rolling through the city and ticking off the buddha statues at Wat Traimit, making a stop at Wat Pho and having our own jaw-drop moment at the sparkling Grand Palace. Just wow. Before the day is out, feast your eyes on tonight’s optional Nava dinner cruise. #Authentic. (B,L)
DAY 3 BANGKOK TO AYUTTHAYA. Rock and roll your way to Ayutthaya – the former royal capital and stop off at Bang Pa-In, the former Royal Palace for an essential stop on the road to Northern Thailand. Later, it’s all you. Grab a travel buddy or wander solo to explore local foodie haunts in the back streets, or set foot in the Hua Raw Night Market. Pad Thai anyone? (B)
DAY 4 AYUTTHAYA TO CHIANG MAI. Today’s your last chance to get as much Ayutthaya action as possible. Tonight we’re rolling via overnight train to Chiang Mai. Catch some zzz’s and get comfortable. (B)
DAY 5 CHIANG MAI. Wake up, new city – easy! A visit to Thailand wouldn’t be complete without a visit to Chiang Mai now, would it? Get acquainted with the city and roll in style via trishaw for your included tour. Today, it’s all about the temples galore and sights. So. Many. Sights. (B)
DAY 6 CHIANG MAI. Free days are the best days! Recharge those batteries and explore the city at your own pace – we’re talking backstreets steeped in history with a story to tell. Optional alert: for the daredevils, make like a monkey with a Flight of the Gibbon treetop adventure and for the foodies, feast on a countryside dinner experience in Kad Mua theme. Spoilt for choice! What will be your pick? (B)
ON THE BUCKET LIST (INCLUDED)
+ Bangkok street eats tour
+ Guided trishaw tour of Chiang Mai
MORE INCLUSIONS
+ 7 breakfasts (B), 1 lunch (L), 2 dinners (D)
+ 7 nights in hostel & hotel accommodation
+ Local transport between cities
+ Guided tours of all major cities
+ Awesome Local Trip Leader
TOP OPTIONALS
+ Nava Dinner Cruise in Bangkok
+ Flight of the Gibbon Treetop Adventure
START MEET AT 2PM IN BANGKOK FINISH APPROXIMATELY 11AM IN CHIANG
DAY 7 CHIANG MAI TO PAI. Say “bye” to Chiang Mai. We’re heading north to Pai, no lie. A haven for travellers and backpackers alike, the scene here is buzzing, and you’ll love it. Tonight, dinner’s on us. (B,D)
DAY 8 CHIANG MAI. After breakfast we say goodbye today. It was a wild adventure. Is it too soon to start planning the next one? Swap numbers and grab all the FB deets of your travel buds. (B)
This is a section of the 12 Day Bangkok to Beaches trip. See p.46 or visit our website.
BANGKOK CHIANG MAI
12 DAY | BANGKOK TO BEACHES
DAY 1 BANGKOK, THAILAND. Say sawasdee kha to Thailand! It’s time to check in and chill out. Tonight you’ll meet your new BFF’s and hit the streets of Bangkok for a street food tour by tuk tuk. What a welcome! (D)
DAY 2 BANGKOK. Wakey wakey, don’t keep Bangkok waiting. After brekkie you’re off on a city tour. Take it all in – the buddha statues, the colourful temples, and if you come across mango sticky rice, remember: the answer is always YES. Tonight, hit the water with an optional Nava dinner cruise. (B,L)
DAY 3 BANGKOK TO AYUTTHAYA. History buffs say ahhhh – we’re off to Ayutthaya. You’ll also stop off at Bang Pa-In Royal Palace. Keep your jaw off the floor, k? (B)
DAY 4 AYUTTHAYA TO CHIANG MAI. Today’s your last chance to get as much Ayutthaya action as possible, tonight you’ll travel by overnight choo-choo (train, duh!) to Chiang Mai. Catch some zzz’s and get comfortable. (B)
DAY 5 CHIANG MAI. Open your eyes – you’ve arrived in Chiang Mai. Today you’re travelling in style by trishaw on a city tour. Today, it’s all about the sights. (B)
DAY 6 CHIANG MAI. Free days are the best days! Explore the city at your own pace. Daredevils can make like a monkey with an optional Flight of the Gibbon treetop adventure. Aww yeah! (B)
DAY 7 CHIANG MAI TO PAI. Say “bye” to Chiang Mai. We’re heading north to Pai, no lie. Hit the streets and get exploring, then share your finds later that evening with an included dinner. (B,D)
DAY 8 PAI TO PHUKET. YES! From the mountains to the beach, we’re off to Phuket. Probs lay off snacks as much as you can, cos tonight we’re having a nomfest of street food. (B,D)
DAY 9 PHUKET. Kick back with a coconut, snorkel or you know, look for Leo (no judgement here). (B)
ON THE BUCKET LIST (INCLUDED)
+ Bangkok tuk tuk street food tour
+ Phuket street eats tour
+ Guided trishaw tour of Chiang Mai
+ Visit to Bang-Pa-In
MORE INCLUSIONS
+ 11 breakfasts (B), 1 lunch (L), 4 dinners (D)
+ 10 nights hotel and hostel accommodation & 1 night on an overnight train
+ Local transport between cities
+ Guided tours of all major cities
+ Awesome Local Trip Leader
TOP OPTIONALS
+ Nava Dinner Cruise in Bangkok
+ Flight of the Gibbon Treetop Adventure
+ Countryside Kad Mua themed dinner START MEET AT 2PM IN BANGKOK
12PM IN BANGKOK
DAY 10 PHUKET TO KRABI. Rise and shine, it’s tanning time! Roam free in Krabi, taking selfies and just generally being awesome. (B)
DAY 11 KRABI. From one paradise to another, it just keeps getting better. Free day (yay!) with more Krabi love as we spend the afternoon chillin’, cookin’ or climbin’, before saying bye to your new besties at the farewell dinner. (B,D)
DAY 12 KRABI TO BANGKOK. Today we swap Facey details and islands for cities, our trip ends just before lunch. Is it too soon to plan the next adventure? You be the judge. (B)
8 DAY | VIETNAMESE VOYAGE
DAY 1 HO CHI MINH CITY, VIETNAM. Enter chaos and culture as you meet the group in Hi Chi Minh City. You’re in Vietnam – get excited! Dive head first into Ho Chi Minh City madness with a street eats tour. (D)
DAY 2 HO CHI MINH CITY. Rise and shine for an optional visit the Cu Chi tunnels for a lesson in Vietnamese resilience. Later, have you slurped some pho yet? A.k.a steaming broth and slinky rice noodles? By the end of the trip, cravings will be pho-real. Tonight: the city is all yours as you wander free. Top tip: let loose and find a rooftop bar to sit high with the tangled power lines (you’ll soon see...) (B)
DAY 3 HO CHI MINH CITY TO HOI. An Pack yo’ bags as we fly upwards to the food capital of Vietnam –seriously, unreal. Give it 10 minutes, and we promise you’ll be hooked on Hoi An. Make tracks through the city with a guided tour. On the menu tonight: an optional street eats tour. If you think you’ve eaten it all, nah-ah not even close. Chopsticks at the ready. (B)
DAY 4 HOI AN. Free day = awesome-ness! FYI: UNESCO World Heritage site alert. Stroll over the Japanese Covered Bridge or visit the Cam Nam Village – just a short boat, skip and a jump away. If you need to squeeze some tanning time, go for it. This is a coastal town, remember? Later, flex your culinary skills and learn the the A to Z of Vietnamese cooking (optional). (B)
DAY 5 HOI AN TO HANOI. Enter Hanoi. Take it all in –the pagodas, the traces of French-Chinese occupation and scooters x1000. Pay tribute to the resting place of Ho Chi Minh with an included cyclo ride. Spot the the one pillar pagoda and the temple of literature as you weave through the Old Quarter. Tonight’s dinner fare is at Koto, a restaurant providing training and skills to young teens. (B,D)
DAY 6 HANOI. Rumble through the capital today. Free day to tick off the Dong Xuan market and wander the streets. Tonight: another optional walking nomfest via street eats tour. We may or may not be slightly obsessed. How could you resist? (B)
ON THE BUCKET LIST (INCLUDED)
+ Guided cyclo tour of Hanoi
+ Guided tour of Hoi An
+ Guided tour of Ho Chi Minh city
+ Overnight cruise in Halong Bay
+ Welcome street food tour
+ Visit to Koto restaurant in Hanoi
+ Farewell dinner in Halong Bay
MORE INCLUSIONS
+ 7 breakfasts (B), 2 lunches (L), 3 dinners (D)
+ 6 nights hotel & hostel accommodation, 1 night on an overnight train
+ Flights between all major cities
+ Guided tours of all major cities
+ Awesome Local Trip Leader
TOP OPTIONALS
+ Traditional cooking class
+ Lady Hau Dinner Cruise
+ Vegetable Village tour in Hoi An
DAY 7 HANOI TO HALONG BAY. Leave the mainland for dust and kick over to Halong Bay. Oogle the masses of limestone pillars poking from with water as you float past on traditional junk boat. Ah-mazing! Your mission today? Chill. And swim. And more chills. Maybe a quick kayak sesh, then tuck into dinner onboard. (B,L,D)
DAY 8 HALONG BAY TO HANOI. Jump in the jade waters for one last post-brekky swim before we head back to Hanoi (aww). (B,L)
PLEASE NOTE: THESE PACKAGES ARE UNGUIDED MEANING YOU WILL NOT BE ACCOMPANIED BY A TRIP LEADER. INCLUDED ACTIVITIES ARE NOT RESTRICTED TO 18-39S.
This Bangkok stopover is all about the eccentric city vibes and its tuk tuk filled streets. Whether you’re keen to retrace history or ready to fuel your appetite with delicious street food, you’re sure to find something in this incredible city.
PLEASE NOTE: THESE PACKAGES ARE UNGUIDED MEANING YOU WILL NOT BE ACCOMPANIED BY A TRIP LEADER. INCLUDED ACTIVITIES ARE NOT RESTRICTED TO 18-39S.
Glitzy and larger than life, this short stopover trip in Singapore has something for everyone. Epic skyscrapers and bustling city vibes are calling to be explored. Wander down lantern-lined streets then stuff yourself with famous dishes like Or Luak and Char Kway Teow at the Chinatown Food Street. Yum!
ON THE BUCKET LIST (INCLUDED)
+ Street eats tour by tuk tuk
FROM
ON THE BUCKET LIST (INCLUDED)
+ Full day city highlights tour of Bangkok
+ Street eats tour by tuk tuk
MORE INCLUSIONS
+ 2 breakfasts, 1 dinner
+ 2 nights in a hotel
+ Return airport transfers
ON THE BUCKET LIST (INCLUDED)
+ Taste of Chinatown street eats tour
FROM €350 Eur per person
MORE INCLUSIONS
+ 3 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 1 dinner
+ 3 nights in a hotel
+ Return airport transfers
ON THE BUCKET LIST (INCLUDED)
+ Taste of Chinatown street eats tour
+ Historical walking tour of Singapore
MORE INCLUSIONS
+ 2 breakfasts, 1 dinner
+ 2 nights in a hotel
+ Return airport transfers
MORE INCLUSIONS
+ 3 breakfasts, 1 dinner
+ 3 nights in a hotel
+ Return airport transfers
OUR TOP 5 TRIPS IN Asia
7 DAY BALI ISLAND HOPPER
The islands of Indonesia are calling, what are you waiting for? Make like a fish and splash your way through each day.
SEE PAGE PG. 28
12 DAY JAPAN HIGHLIGHTS
Oh Japan – we’ve got our eye on you. Chopsticks at the ready. And, GO!
SEE PAGE PG. 32
7 DAY THAI ISLANDS SAMUI SUNSETS
Sparkle your way through Thailand and uncover hidden gems across the islands.
SEE PAGE PG. 36
27 DAY ASIAN FUSION
Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, Vietnam = THE ultimate trip.
SEE ON PAGE PG. 22
7 DAY BALI ACTIVE: SURF, CYCLE, YOGA
Take savasana, ride in style or hang ten. Your trip, your way in paradise.
SEE ON PAGE PG. 29
MAPS
TERMS & CONDITIONS
It is our intention to set out clearly and simply the responsibilities which we at Top Deck Tours Ltd, level 1, 107 Power Road, London, W4 5PY England, a company registered in the UK, company number 04905253 (“Topdeck, us or we”) have to You and any member of your party (“You”) and which You, in turn, have to us when a contract is made between us. You should therefore read and understand the contents.
All trips in this brochure are operated by Buffalo Tours (Hong Kong) Limited (HK CR No 2108671) (“Buffalo Tours”). Buffalo Tours’ has its own terms and conditions which will apply to the provision of your trip and, accordingly, a reference to “these Conditions” shall mean the terms and conditions set out herein as well as Buffalo Tours’ terms and conditions. Buffalo Tours’ terms and conditions are available directly on their websites or by contacting them.
If we book a flight on your behalf it will be subject to the conditions of the respective airline, including but not limited to deposit/full payment and cancellation conditions.
1. (a) Please note that our trips are designed for young people between the ages of 18 to 39 years. We may in special circumstances approve persons outside this range. If You are 17 years of age and wish to book on one of our trips, please contact us before making a booking as we will require the written consent of your parent or guardian. We reserve the sole right to decline a booking request from You should we think our trips are not suited to You. (b) A contract between You and us will exist as soon as we issue an invoice in response to your request for a booking and the deposit has been paid to your travel agent or us.
BOOKING YOUR TRIP
2. Bookings can be made either through your local travel agent or with us direct and must be secured with a deposit of €75 per person paid at the time of booking. This deposit is non-refundable unless we cancel your trip. If You are making a booking within 42 days of departure, then full payment is required PROVIDED HOWEVER that if the trip comprises a special offer we may require full payment including any pre and post accommodation and sundry service charges to be paid at the time specified in the offer. All Discounts apply to the Trip price only and do not apply to any included flights, pre & post accommodation or transfers. Only two discounts can be combined to a maximum of 15%. For Friends and Group Discounts, all passengers must be booked on the same trip at the same time. For multi trip discounts all trips must be booked at the same time. All discounts are subject to availability. For full terms and conditions of all discounts please visit www.topdeck.travel. Your booking is taken to be confirmed, and accepted when we issue an invoice. If your booking is made through a travel agent, we will address all correspondence to that travel agent. All monies paid by You to the travel agent will be held by them on behalf of Topdeck. If You arrange your trip direct with us, all correspondence and communications will be sent to your address in our booking file unless You specify otherwise. Balance of all payments is required at least 42 days prior to your trip departure date. If You do not pay within this period we may deem your booking cancelled and your deposit forfeited.
3. Alterations or cancellations by You after your booking has been accepted will be effected subject to the provisions of clauses 5, 6 and 7 of these Conditions.
4. Prices quoted in our brochures are calculated on costs and exchange rates at 10 September 2016. These prices may increase or decrease and we reserve the sole right to alter prices and other particulars contained in our brochures and on our website. Price changes in trips featured in subsequent brochure versions will supersede the prices in this brochure. (The version date is indicated on the back cover of this brochure). Before You make a booking we will provide You with details of the current price of your chosen trip. This will also be displayed on the website. Once You have accepted this price and your booking has been confirmed in accordance with clause 2 that price will remain fixed and will not be subject to surcharges.
5. You must clearly state all your requirements at the time of booking. Please note that any dietary requirements will be a request only. We cannot guarantee special dietary requirements nor will we assume any responsibility or liability if your special requirements cannot be fulfilled. If You want to change any aspect of your booking including but not limited to a change to a trip of shorter duration or different departure date You must notify us as soon as possible in writing. We will do our best to accommodate your requested changes but You will be required to pay an amendment fee of €30 per person per change. If a request is made less than 42 days before departure, normal cancellation fees will apply in accordance with clause 7 unless the transfer or change is to an earlier departure of the same trip. In the event of a request for a change to be made a new invoice will be issued by Topdeck and cancellation charges/amendment fees will be shown. All amendment fees are payable within 7 days of the issue of a new invoice or on the date of departure, whichever is the sooner.
6. If You are prevented from traveling as a result of illness, the death of an immediate family member, jury service, or other reason beyond your control which we consider significant, we will agree to your booking being transferred to another person who satisfies all the conditions applicable to the trip, subject to You and the other person accepting liability for full payment of the trip cost and any additional costs arising from the transfer PROVIDED THAT we must be given at least 21 days written notice of the proposed change.
CANCELLATION BY YOU
7. Cancellation of a booking by You must be made in writing. We will not regard a booking as cancelled unless and until written notice is received by us. On cancellation the following charges will apply:
Days before Departure % of trip cost forfeited Pre/post accomm Over 42 days Deposit Nil 42-29
We therefore reserve the sole right, at our discretion, to modify or cancel any trip, accommodation or arrangement at any time. We will notify You as soon as possible of any changes and they will form part of our contract with You. In the case of any material modification or cancellation, we will, if possible, provide You with three alternatives:
(1) a trip of an equivalent or closely similar standard and price, if available; (2) a trip of a lower standard together with a refund of the difference in price; or (3) cancellation with a full refund of all monies paid.
9. A material modification is one which has a serious effect on your trip and includes a change of departure date, departure point or airport, or change of departure time of more than twelve hours, which would cause substantial inconvenience to You. We do not consider a change of accommodation, or transport style a material change.
10. We will endeavor not to materially modify or cancel the trip within 42 days of the date of the scheduled departure unless compelled to do so because of circumstances beyond our reasonable control. If a material modification or cancellation is made by us within six weeks of the scheduled departure date for reasons other than Force Majeure in accordance with clause 21 You will receive compensation as stated in the scale below.
Period before scheduled departure date that we notify You or your travel agent together with the compensation offered:
Over 42 days Nil
42-29 days
28-14 days
13-7 days
6-0 days
Cancellation charges for the flight segment of any flight included as part of your trip featured in this brochure:
Up to 42 days before trip departure: Included in trip deposit loss Less than 42 days: €30 plus any airline charges, which could be up to the full value of the ticket.
INTERNATIONAL FLIGHTS
Should we book any flights on your behalf, which are not included as part of the trip package, they will be subject to the conditions of the respective airline - this includes but is not limited to deposit/full payment and amendment/ cancellation conditions. Topdeck will charge a €30 per person administration fee for any amendments, cancellations or reissue of tickets in addition to any airline fees.
ROLLING DEPOSIT VOUCHER
Any cancellation within 6 weeks which incurs more than deposit charge is not applicable to this offer. The Rolling Deposit Voucher (RDV) may only be used as a deposit on one future Topdeck trip 4 days of length or more. Only one Rolling Deposit may be applied per trip. The RDV has no expiry date, but the passenger must be aged between 18 to 39 years to travel as per these terms and conditions.
The RDV will equate to the initial deposit amount paid. If redeeming against a trip with a lower deposit amount, the remainder of the voucher will be forfeited. If redeeming against a trip with a higher deposit amount the balance will be payable at time of booking. The RDV has no cash value and cannot be transferred to another customer.
The RDV can only be combined with 1 other discount, either a standard Early Bird deal or standard brochure discount applicable at time of booking. Rolling deposit vouchers cannot be requested or redeemed against African Safari trips.
CANCELLATION OR MODIFICATION BY US
8. Every effort will be made to operate all trips as advertised but it must be remembered that our trips are planned up to eighteen months in advance.
€25
€35
€50
€100
11. Buffalo Tours may require a minimum number of participants for certain trips and in the event that there are insufficient bookings recorded by not later than 42 days before the scheduled departure date we will be entitled to cancel the scheduled trip, whereupon all monies paid by You for your trip shall be refunded but no further compensation will be paid and You and Topdeck agree to mutually release each other from any further obligations which would have been enforceable had the trip not been cancelled.
12. Buffalo Tours may alter or substitute the type or size of vehicle, or style of transport mentioned in the brochure, depending on the number of passengers carried, which can vary from trip to trip. Normally the maximum group size is 35 passengers.
OUR LIABILITY TO YOU
13. Save where the provisions of Force Majeure apply, in the event that the trip does not reasonably comply with the description in the brochure, Topdeck may compensate You to a maximum value equal to twice the price of the trip but excluding insurance premiums and amendment fees AND Topdeck will only be liable to pay the maximum amount of compensation where there has been a total failure of consideration for your payment.
Topdeck will not be liable where any failure in the performance or provision of Your trip is due to: (a) Your acts or omissions or the acts or omissions of another member in Your group (b) any third party not connected with the provision of Your trip and where the failure is unforeseeable or unavoidable, (c) unusual and unforeseeable circumstances beyond our control, the consequences of which could not have been avoided even if all due care had been exercised or (d) an event which we or a travel service provider, even with all due care, could not foresee or forestall (including but not limited to Force Majeure and unavoidable technical problems with transport and similar events).
14. If You are killed, injured or become ill during or as a result of, carriage by ship, train or coach forming part of the trip in circumstances where such death, injury or illness is not caused by or contributed to by You our liability to pay damages and/or the amount of compensation we will be liable to pay is limited in accordance with the liability of a carrier under any international Convention applicable to such events, including, but not limited to:
• In respect of carriage by sea, the Athens Convention;
• In respect of the provision of accommodation, the Paris Convention;
• In respect of carriage by rail, the Berne Convention; and,
* In respect of carriage by road, the Geneva Convention.
15. The terms of these Conventions are incorporated into and form part of our contract with You. You should know that the carrier will rely upon its ‘conditions of carriage’ which may limit or remove the carrier’s liability to You and limit compensation under any international Conventions. Our liability will also, in all cases, be limited in accordance with relevant carrier conditions of carriage. Our obligation to You is to (and You expressly authorise us to) make trip bookings on Your behalf with reasonable skill and care and to arrange a contract between You and Buffalo Tours (and, where applicable, a relevant airline). We exercise care in the selection of reputable operators but we have no control over, or liability for, the services provided by third parties. All bookings are made on Your behalf subject to the terms and conditions, including conditions of carriage and limitations of liability, imposed by the relevant operator. Your legal rights in connection with such trips are against the specific operator and are not against us, except to the extent a problem is caused by fault on our part.
16. In the event that Topdeck (or its insurers) make any payment to You for death, personal injury or illness, You must give us or our insurers all and any rights You may have to take action against the party responsible for causing the death, personal injury or illness and You must co-operate fully with us in seeking recovery of any payment we may make from such party.
17. Your booking is accepted on the condition that You understand, and take responsibility for, the risks inherent in adventure travel. Every effort will be made to operate all trips featured in this brochure but because of the number of countries visited on trips there may be a necessity to vary the itinerary from that stated in the brochure, and delays may occur for a variety of reasons beyond our control. The need for a flexible attitude to this type of travel is stressed in our publication. The final decision on the itinerary and the content of the trip will be taken by the Trip Leader, as appointed by us in the interest of the group as a whole. Please note that due to Public holidays some sights or activities may not be available on a particular trip.
18. No refund will be made for services made available by Topdeck but which for whatever reason are not used by You once the trip has departed.
OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES AND EXCURSIONS
19. Topdeck and/or its associated staff partners and suppliers makes no warranties or representations in relation to implied or explicit suggestion and/or recommendation for services, activities and events not highlighted as included in the related trip(s). Information not explicitly noted as included is provided 'as is' and intended to be general in nature so may not be suitable for your particular needs. It is essential that you ensure that any/all risk associated with getting to/from, the participation in or visitation of any area, activity, event or venue is in-line with your expectations and suitably covered under your travel insurance
20. During Your trip You will be offered the chance to purchase various optional excursions and activities. Topdeck does not own, operate or control any of the companies or individuals which provide the optional activities or excursions. Some of the optional activities and excursions, maybe inherently risky. If You want to take part in such optional activities or excursions You must be fit enough to do so and must follow all reasonable instructions. The standards of health and safety which will be adopted by the company or the individual providing the optional activity or excursion will be those of the country where the optional activity or excursion takes place. Please note that these standards may not be the same as You would find in Your home country. If You wish to book any optional excursion or activity, You may do so subject to the operator’s terms and conditions. Your contract will be with the operator of the activity or excursion and will be governed by local law.
Your Trip Leader will have further details and additional information can be found on our website. Topdeck accepts no liability for any act or omission of any operator or operator’s employees, agents or sub-contractors.
EXCLUSION OF LIABILITY – FORCE MAJEURE
21. We do not accept liability for any loss, damage or expense resulting from war or terrorist activities threatened or actual, civil unrest, industrial action threatened or actual, weather conditions, fire, flood, drought, closures, unforeseen alterations to public transport schedules, rescheduling of aircraft or boats, epidemic or outbreaks of illness or any other event outside our control
which either delays or extends or reduces the trip, or compels a change in the trip arrangements after departure (“Force Majeure”).
CONTRAVENTION OF LAW
We will not be responsible for any loss or damage sustained by You as a result of a contravention of any law or regulation of any of the countries visited while on the trip.
HEALTH AND MEDICAL CONDITIONS
22. If You have a medical condition or disability which may affect your trip, we ask that You inform us in writing at the time of booking the trip of any special arrangements required by You so that we are able to advise as to the suitability of those arrangements. If we reasonably feel we are unable to satisfactorily accommodate your particular needs, we reserve the right to decline the booking or ask for You to be accompanied by a person who is able to provide full assistance to You throughout your trip.
YOUR LIABILITY TO US
23. You will not be permitted to embark or continue on the trip if your mental or physical condition is, in the reasonable opinion of any representative of Topdeck, such as to render You incapable of caring for yourself, or whereby You become objectionable to other passengers, or You become a hazard to yourself or other passengers. We will not be responsible for expenses resulting in You being precluded from completing the trip for any reason, nor will we refund You any part of your trip cost. In all cases we will notify You of the reasons why we have taken this action. We will have no obligation to arrange for your return to the point of the trip departure where your condition manifests itself after the trip departure. Further, if the trip involves travel by air, the captain of your aircraft can refuse to allow You to fly on the aircraft if he believes that You could be dangerous or disruptive to other passengers on the flight.
TRAVEL DOCUMENTS
24. Please ensure You carefully read your invoice, tickets and all other documents we send to You as soon as You receive them, and contact your travel agent, or us immediately if any information appears to be incorrect. We will not accept any liability if You fail to notify us of any inaccuracy in any document within 14 days of us sending them to You or your agent. While we will do our best to rectify any changes made outside this time, it is your responsibility to meet any additional costs which may be involved, except in the case of an error made by Topdeck and where there is reasonable justification for You not contacting us within the specified time. You are responsible for ensuring that all necessary travel documents including, but not limited to, passports, visas and vaccination certificates are valid and subsisting. We strongly recommend that You verify current documentation requirements and all other relevant protocols and procedures associated with your trip with your travel agent or us. Please note requirements change and you must check with your Consulate for the most up to date information, including but not limited to Visa requirements for the countries visited on your Trip. Passports must have an expiry date of at least six months after completion of the trip.
INSURANCE
25. You must take out comprehensive travel insurance before You travel on your trip. Your insurance protection must include cover for cancellation, medical and repatriation expenses, personal injury and accident, death and loss of personal baggage and money and personal liability insurance. Evidence of such insurances must be produced to Topdeck on request and normally on day one of your trip. Insurance cover offered by credit card companies or reciprocal medical cover agreements are often not comprehensive.
26. You hereby indemnify us against all third-party actions taken against us for loss or damage caused by You or arising from your participation on the trip.
27. In the event of You making a claim against Topdeck arising out of the trip, You hereby assign to us, any rights to take action against any third party supplier or any other person or party that Topdeck reasonably considers to be a party to the action and to co-operate fully with Topdeck should Topdeck or its insurers wish to enforce those rights which have been assigned to Topdeck.
28. In the event that You make a claim against us which is covered by your insurance policy, You agree to pursue the claim through your insurer either in addition to, or in substitution for, your claim against us (if any). We agree to indemnify You in respect of reasonable expenses incurred in successfully pursuing such a claim and acknowledge that any settlement made by the insurer shall not prejudice your rights against us.
29. In the event of You not making a claim before 5 working days of the maximum length of time permitted by your policy, You must assign, by letter sent by courier delivery to Topdeck not less than 5 working days prior to the said specified time, the benefit of the policy and give immediate notice of such an assignment to your insurer.
COMPLAINTS
30. In the event of any dissatisfaction with the accommodation or any other service provided during your trip, You must report it immediately to the Trip Leader so that action can be taken to remedy the problem. Failure to notify the Trip Leader of any problem immediately may result in your ability to claim compensation from us being extinguished or reduced. Any complaint made to Topdeck following the conclusion of the trip should be made in writing within 28 days of completion of the trip. In the event that You do not notify us in writing within 28 days, Topdeck’s ability to investigate the complaint may be prejudiced and may extinguish your claim. We can also offer you ABTA’s scheme for the resolution of disputes which is approved by the Chartered Trading Standards Institute. If we can’t resolve your complaint, go to www.abta. com to use ABTA’s simple procedure. Further information on the Code and ABTA’s assistance in resolving disputes can be found on www. abta.com.
DATA PROTECTION
31. We are committed to protecting your personal information and agree to process your personal information in accordance with our Privacy Notice, which is available online at www.topdeck.travel/privacy. In order to make your booking and ensure that your travel arrangements run smoothly, we need to use the information You provide and pass it on to other relevant suppliers who are responsible for parts of your travel arrangements. In many cases this will include transferring your data to overseas recipients (including to recipients outside your home country). In making this booking, your consent to this information being passed on to the relevant persons is deemed to be given unless You object and advise Topdeck of your objection at the time of booking. The information may also be provided to public authorities such as Customs or Immigration if required by them, or as required by law. This consent applies to any sensitive information that You give to us such as details of any disabilities or dietary/religious requirements.
SMOKING
32. Topdeck operates a non-smoking policy on our coaches (although we make frequent stops for breaks), and in most of our accommodation.
LUGGAGE
33. There are strict weight limits for coaches when fully loaded. Therefore You are only entitled to have one piece of main luggage of standard size (see the pre-departure information or our website for size limits), and not weighing more than 20kg. In addition you may bring a daypack.
FINANCIAL PROTECTION
34. The Company is a member of ABTA (L8291/Y2992) and is bonded to provide for your financial protection in the event of the Company’s insolvency.
GENERAL
35. You understand that future Topdeck advertising and publicity material may include statements made by passengers, or their photographs, and You consent to such use of your comments or photographic/video likeness.
36. No servant, agent, employee or representative of the Company has any right to alter, vary or waive any of these Conditions, nor undertake any activity likely to lead to increased liability whatsoever on behalf of Topdeck unless such be in writing and signed by a duly authorised person.
37. All contracts for bookings made with Topdeck, for trips in this brochure, are governed by English law and are subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of the English Courts in the UK, should any dispute between us not be otherwise amicably agreed.
