Far East

Shaped by the Landscape

There are significant differences in the physical environment between the mainland and maritime southeast Asia, and these very much influence the life of the people, as well as the experience for travellers. An outstanding feature of the mainland areas are the very long rivers, particularly the Mekong, which pass through every single country, and playa crucial role in the lives of the people. The rivers have carved out the extensive lowland plains, which are separated by forested hills and mountain ranges. The fertile plains enabled the establishment of settled cultures based on rice growing, while the mountain ranges are inhabited by tribal groups, with distinctive and colourful identities and cultures.

The islands of southeast Asia range from very large, like Borneo, Sumatra and Java, to tiny dots on the map. The seas surrounding the islands are warm and not very salty, an ideal environment for fish, coral and marine life.

Discover the history

Probably one of the most magnificent monuments of the entire region is the temple complex at Angkor Wat in Cambodia. Situated on a UNESCO Heritage site this temple is so vast that it’s described as one of the greatest human creations in history. Then you have the Bagan Temples of Burma. A vast plain with literally thousands of magnificent, intricate temples rising out of a canopy of palm and tamarind, built by the kings of Bagan between the 11th and 13th centuries. For travellers who want to experience the culture while escaping the crowds, this is the place to see.

Many Hidden Treasures

Away from the temples, the region has so much to offer that’s like nowhere else on earth. You can cruise in Vietnam's dazzling Halong Bay, the Bay of Descending Dragons, with more than 2,000 islets jutting out of the water, you can dock and explore them. Don’t forget the unearthly landscapes of Indonesia's volcanic belt, in particular the Mount Bromo National Park, and the desolate beauty of the Sea of Sand.

One of the most popular destinations, Thailand, can keep visitors spellbound for several weeks. From the great temples and floating markets of Bangkok, to the sensational islands and beaches in the south. The north the hill tribes, the Golden Triangle and the elephant treks all add to the holiday of a lifetime. The Four Seasons Koh Samui Resort gives you outstanding views of a private hillside to give you the perfect blend of privacy and an authentic Thai experience. Or if you are craving an Indonesian stay, the W Retreat and Spa in Bali is a glamourous resort built around a lagoon pool, for the ultimate relaxing Southeast Asian holiday.

If your seeking urban excitement in an exotic setting, few places on earth can compete with the cosmopolitan city island of Singapore. The Raffles Hotel is a classy chic hotel ideal for a romantic southeast Asian getaway.

While both the history and modern-day politics of the Far East are complex, the countries are safe and welcoming. Traveling around is easy and convenient, any one country provides more than enough for one visit, but if you do have the opportunity to travel from one to another, you can witness how the way of life changes, and appreciate the incredible kaleidoscope of landscapes and cultures that are represented here.

Southeast Asia is a magnet for travellers from all over the world, and it is easy to see why. It's not only the enchanting islands, the amazing cities, the dense jungles, and the majestic rivers that draw people in. The region enthrals its visitors with its array of rich and diverse cultures, its all-pervading spirituality and mysticism, thousands of years of history, and its people's welcoming and generous warmth. If you simply cannot wait to book your Far East holiday request a quote today, on contact us for any more information.