Welcome to the far east
While the use of the term ‘Far East’ may not be geographically correct, we use the term to differentiate these seven countries from the population or commercial giants of Japan, China and India. We offer these countries under the ‘Asia’ designation. Our Far East refers to destinations that were, for the most part, colonies of European powers, most notably France, Britain and Holland. Today, each country is different but they share common attributes. They are all bustling and independent with a youthful population, world class hotels, innovative cuisine, impressive temples and pristine beaches. Let us open up this area to your imagination.
Cambodia
Cambodia’s geography has played a substantial role in shaping its history. It's central location along the Indochinese Peninsula and the relatively flat terrain facilitated the rise of the Khmer Empire which flourished from its base in Angkor for over 500 years. In the simplest terms, Cambodia is defined by legacy, contrast and courage. Their outstanding arrays of historical offerings provide insight into its esteemed history while beaches, tours and jungle remain ripe for your discovery.
Indonesia
With 700 languages and 17,000 islands, Indonesia stretches across the Indian Ocean From the eastern edge of Asia to the western edge of the Pacific Ocean. In this region, we offer some various options bound to start a discussion. We offer the chance to explore Java with its temple complexes and volcanoes. On Bali, eat lunch with locals at their farm house and dinner at an exquisite French restaurant. Come face to face with Komodo Dragons and enjoy some down time on one of the most pristine beaches you could ever imagine. …let us introduce you.
Laos
If you are looking to laze away on a tropical beach, Laos is not for you since there are no beaches in this land-locked country. There is water however, as life in Laos is governed by the ebb and flow of the Mekong River. What it lacks in beaches, it more than makes up for in the timeless charm of its gentle people. Despite neighboring five other countries, the Lao people retain a distinct culture and way of life found nowhere else in the region. Laos is tranquility incarnate and can best be described in three words: simple, serene and sensational. Be captivated by the mysterious beauty of Laos, the best place for a transformative getaway, even without the beach (or perhaps because of it).
Malaysia
Malaysia features a compelling mix of Asian and European cultural influences that make it quite unique within Southeast Asia. Malaysia encapsulates the essence of Asia in a package as varied as it is convenient. In addition to some of the world’s oldest rainforests, best beaches and most celebrated cuisines, Malaysia is also incredibly culturally diverse with a compelling mix of Asian and European. It’s an off-beat traveler’s paradise - fusing Asia’s best attributes with first-rate amenities and infrastructure.
Myanmar
Before it was renamed Myanmar by the military dictatorship that took over after independence, the country was known as Burma and its capital was Rangoon (now Yangon). It was the British footprint in Southeast Asia along with Singapore and Malaya. Closed off for decades, Myanmar remains untainted by the globalization seen elsewhere in Asia. It is like traveling back in time as you tuck into Myanmar’s exotic cuisine and socialize and slurp noodles in tea shops. Accommodations have however, kept up with the times and you have your choice of old Colonial gems combined with modern boutique offerings. For those looking for a ‘pure’ travel destination, look no farther than Myanmar.
Singapore
As the saying goes, “Good things come in small packages.” A small and prosperous city, Singapore is a small, island-nation at the southern tip of the Malay Peninsula. Contrasting futuristic skyscrapers with hints of British Colonial Heritage and meticulously landscaped parks, this is an Asian destination like no other and may also be the most kid-centric - since it is hard to tell where the city ends and an amusement park begins.
Thailand
Thailand creates different perceptions in people’s mind, mostly based on age and the movies we have watched. For some it is the Royalty of ‘The King and I’ for others, it could be OO7, racing through the canals or more recently ‘The Hangover.' In this case, reality is always better than fiction. All our trips are private, limited to six friends/family and custom designed to fit your interests - whether that is history, shopping, cooking or just getting to know the people, from the slick Bangkok Sky Bar to Akha hill tribe people on the border with Burma. Thailand is known as the ‘Land of Smiles’ and we give you a lot to smile about.
Vietnam
From the hill tribes on the Chinese and Burmese border to the exotic waterways of the Mekong Delta in the South. Vietnam is a mosaic of emerald green paddies, seemingly endless white sand beaches along its coastline and the combination of tradition and modernity in its towns and cities. Vietnam offers endless opportunities for personal enlightenment and fulfillment. Whether it’s cycling through the verdant rice paddies around Hoi or being absorbed in the Saigon traffic on a Vespa or sampling delicious street food in towns from south to north, Vietnam will fill the senses of any traveler whether intrepid or occasional. Let us create an experience just for you.