St. Leonard’s CUE Trip of Cambodia& LaosG1/Tem/Pur/Mar/BP
8 - 25 November 2015 (18 days)
Cambodia:Siem Reap, Temples of Angkor, Phnom Penh,Kampot, Kep,
Laos: Vientiane, Vang Vieng, Luang Prabang
This 18-day tour has been specifically designed for students from St Leonard’s College in Melbourne. The trip entails a journey through two of Southeast Asia’s culturally diverse and geographically unique countries. Cambodia, once the centre of a vast empire that has endured a tragic and turbulent historyand Laos; a peaceful landlocked nation bordered by no less than five larger and more powerful neighbours.
A trip rich in activities and highlights – including elephant trekking, a hands-on cooking class, a journey along the famous Mekong River as well as excursions to the magnificent Temples of Angkor and the World Heritage listed town of Luang Prabang will ensure this trip is as enjoyable for students as it is educational.
Asignificant community service componentwhere by students will build a dwelling for an impoverished Cambodian family is included in the itinerary. We also visita rural school in Laostogive students an insight into the challenges facing the children of these countries and their aspirations for the future.
ITINERARY
This itinerary is correct at the time of printing. From time to time there may be slight changes due to uncontrollable circumstances. Your group leader will advise you of any changes at the initial group meeting.
YOUR GROUP LEADER
Your group leader is probably the person who most influences the success of your holiday. Thus SEA Travel (Student Educational Adventures) chooses to employ professional, dedicated student trip tour leaders who have several years experience escorting young people throughout the region.
Day 1 Depart Melbourne / Arrive Siem Reap (Sunday 8 Nov)We are greeted at Siem Reap International Airport by our tour leader and escorted to the hotel. After checking into our rooms we have a group meeting to discuss the following day’s activities before a well-deserved rest.
Day 2 Siem Reap (Monday 9 Nov) On this - our first full day in Cambodia we will set out early to visit the magnificent Angkor temples. These temples were built by the Khmer civilization between 802 and 1220 AD and represent one of humankind's most astonishing and enduring architectural achievements. From Angkor the Khmer kings ruled over a vast domain that reached from Vietnam to China to the Bay of Bengal. The structures one sees at Angkor today, more than 100 stone temples in all, are the surviving remains of a grand religious, social and administrative metropolis whose other buildings - palaces, public buildings, and houses - were built of wood and have long since decayed and disappeared.
Among the temples we will visit include the imposing Angkor Thom and the Bayon Temple with its famous faces representing one of the former kings and then most imposing of them all – Angkor Wat. Time permitting will also visit the beautiful Ta Prohm temple famous for its tapestry of trees intertwined within the temple structure. This evening we will enjoy a walking tour of the city’s central district before dinner. (B, D)
Day 3, 4 & 5 Siem Reap Community Project (Tuesday 10, Wednesday 11 & Thursday 12 Nov) Thismorning we will travel to a poor village on the outskirts of Siem Reap town to begin our three day community building project. Over the coming three days we will build a house in an effort to assist one of the local community’s poorest inhabitants. Jobs may entail moving timber, nailing tin sheets, digging trenches, sanding, landscaping and gardening. It is advised that you prepare adequately for these days which whilst rewarding, will require students to work diligently to achieve the day’s objectives. Local tradesmen will assist guidance and give on-the-job training. At the end of each day we will commute back to our hotel. During our time building will also learn about daily life in the villageand see how the village functions as a close community, subsistence living and future prospects for the villagers. At the completion of building we will take part in a short thank you ceremony. This evening we take part in a hands-on cooking class hosted by a talented localchef. (3B, 3L, 2D)
Day 6Siem Reap / Phnom Penh (Friday 13 Nov) This morning we will depart Siem Reap and take our 7 hour bus trip to Phnom Penh. The drive will take us through the countryside affording us wonderful views of Cambodian rural life. We will stop at a mid-way point where we can taste deep fried spiders and local fruits.
The skyline of Phnom Penh changed dramatically during the French colonial period when the cluster of pagodas and wooden structures along the riverfront were replaced after 1863 by the French influenced colonial period, structures interspersed throughout the city today. At the height of the colonial period Phnom Penh was reputed to be the most beautiful city in French Indochina – a beauty lost during the years of hardship and neglect, although which can still be sought out today by the keen observer. (B, L, D)
Day 7 Phnom Penh (Saturday 14 Nov)Today we will visit many of Phnom Penh’s most important places of interest including the infamous Tuol Sleng Prison and the ‘Killing Fields’ – both stark reminders of Cambodia's tragic recent history during the Khmer Rouge reign from 1975-1979. It was during this relatively brief time a little know teacher called Pol Pot instituted a reign of terror over the country and implemented a plan to turn Cambodia into an agriculture-based society, systematically emptying the cities and forcibly moving the people onto collective (state-owned) farms where they performed hard labour. It is estimated that during this time over a fifth of the country’s population perished by overwork, starvation and execution.
Time is set aside to visit the intriguing Russian Market selling an array of goods including a vast array of software, handicrafts, copy designer watches and musical instruments. As the sun sets we will take a private boat cruise on the Mekong River to enjoy panoramic views of the Phnom Penh skyline (life jackets included). This Mekong River is the most important water source in Southeast Asia as essential to the economies of Laos and Vietnam as well as Cambodia’s thriving fishing industry. (B, D)
Day 8 Phnom Penh / Kampot (Sunday 15 (Nov)This morning we head to the Silver Pagoda and Royal Palace to learn about the Royal family and the recent cremation of King Sihanouk in front of the Palace (February 2013). Then webegin an adventurous side trip to the country’s southwest region. The 148km bus journey takes us to the township of Kampot near the coast. Upon arrival we visit some of the nearby attractions including Phnom Chhnork cave system and a local monastery 10km from town. In the evening we stroll around this sleepy town with its crumbling French colonial buildings. (B, L, D)
Day 9 Bokor National Park – Kampot Province / Kep (Monday 16 Nov) This morning we drive to the old French hill station of Mt. Bokor, situated at an elevation of 1080 metres some 42km southwest from Kampot . This hill station was first established by the French in 1917 and the road up the hill was built using 3,000 local prisoners who established a casino, post office, school and other French colonial buildings. Later the King of Cambodia had his Black Palace built here until the civil war broke out that led to the settlement being abandoned, left in ruins. Today the township is being restored. Upon arrival we will see spectacular views of the surrounding forest, former colonial ruins and learn about the turbulent history in the area between the Khmer Rouge and the Vietnamese Army as recently as the 1970’s and 1980’s. We will learn about the wildlife in the region including elephants and bears and Preah Monivong National Park located on the mountain before driving to the seaside town of Kep.(B, L, D)
Day 10Kep/ Phnom Penh / Vientiane (Laos) (Tuesday 17 Nov)This morning we relax on a secluded beach. Shortly before midday we take the return bus trip to Phnom Penh and head directly to the airport for our 2 hour flight to Vientiane in Laos. Upon arrival we transfer a short distance to our hotel after which we will venture out for our first taste of Laotian cuisine and become acquainted with the people, sights and atmosphere of Laos. (B, L)
Day 11 Vientiane – Vang Vieng (Wednesday 18 Nov)This morning wenotice a significant cultural difference between Cambodia and Laos and begin a city tour of the Laotian capital, visiting Wa Prakeo home of the Emerald Buddha as well as stopping at the local markets and the beautiful 18 century temple of Wat Si Saket.Our160km bus drive thentakes through beautiful sceneryas we journey towards Vang Vieng in central Laos. The surrounding countryside is a mixture of jagged limestone hills, caves and caverns. Here our adventure steps up a notch as we explore the Cham cave system not far out of townand learn about the peculiar eco systems of Vang Vieng. Tonight we stroll through this sleepy town. (B, D)
Day 12 Vang Vieng (Thursday 19 Nov)This morning we take a bicycle tour amongst rural villages to experience life in the countryside. The surrounding countryside is a mixture of jagged limestone hills, caves and caverns and dotted with small villages. Riding to the Nam Song River we swap our bikes for kayaks and enjoy kayaking down this River while being led by qualified and experienced kayaking instructors this afternoon. Tonight we discuss the town’s recent rapid development and tourist related issues such cultural awareness, sustainability and the impact that tourism can have on a small community. (B, L, D)
Day 13 Vang Vieng – Luang Prabang (Friday 20 Nov) We will travel deeper into the Laotian interior today, journeying further north as we make our way to the enchanting town of Luang Prabang - rich in colonial character and the centre of Laotian Buddhism. This town is a perfect setting in which to take in the beauty of Laotian culture in a setting of several colourful temples inhabited by orange robed monks. The Laotian kings ruled Laos from Luang Prabang for several hundred years until the Communist Party of Laos took over control in 1972 after which the Laotian king and his family were exiled to a remote part of the country. This afternoon we visit the stunning Royal Palace Museum to learn about the former royal family and French colonial influences before. (B, D)
Day 14 Luang Prabang (Saturday 21 Nov)After breakfast we take a 10km bicycle ride to an elephant camp before ‘saddling up’ for an hour elephant trek through the forest. From here vans will pick us up and transfer us to a handicraft village to visit silk weaving / silk worm products and see paper made by hand. Afterwardswe take a boat trip upstream on the mighty Mekong River to visit a Buddhist cave called Pak Ou. Here we will learn about the significance of this auspicious site filled with hundreds of Buddhist statues and the Mekong River’scurrent ecological and political issues such as hydro dams, driftnet fishing and border management. Late afternoon we return to Luang Prabang. (B, D)
Day 15 Luang Prabang (Sunday 22 Nov)This morning we stopping off at a Mong hill tribe village to see their traditional way of life and go inside a villager’s house to see their living conditions. We continueon to the most impressive 3 tiered Krungi Waterfalls and visit the nearby Asian Bear Protection Centre to learn of the plight and protection efforts of this endangered species. Later afternoon we return to the city and either stop at Henri Mouhot’s grave the French explorer and naturalist credited with rediscovering Angkor Wat to the western world or explore the French colonial Old Town on foot laden with handicraft shops. (B, D)
Day 16 Luang Prabang (Monday 23 Nov)The first part of the daywill be set aside for a Great Race where students will travel about the town in small groups completing various tasks and activities. This will include a climb up Mount Phu Si revealing panoramic views of the town and surrounding hinterland, finding a UNESCO heritage lake, buying items in a local ‘wet’ market and taking tuk tuks to a certain location amongst other objectives.
After lunch we take a trip out of town to visit a poor rural school to learn about the Laotian education system and interact with local students, play sport and converse with students of a similar age. We will be expected to perform a dance or song that will need to be prepared in advance.This evening’s final dinner in Asia will include atraditional Baci ceremony where village elders will wish us well on our travels and perform a dance – Laotian style. (B,D)
Day 17 Depart Luang Prabang (Tuesday 24 Nov) There is a last chance for shopping.We transfer to the airport for the homebound flight to Melbourne. (B)
Day 18Arrive Melbourne (Wednesday 25 November) Arrive in Melbourne today at 09:25am
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SUMMARY
Grading:Challenging Students will be required to be in good health to get the most of this trip whilst any one of reasonable fitness will be able to take part. There are no real physical difficulties however students will be expected to walk every day, particularly during the community project component of the trip. You will also be expected to work diligently during the days of the community service project. You will also be expected to be able to ride a bike. It will be necessary for you to carry your own luggage throughout the trip but only for short distances. Accommodation:Student accommodation is on a triple or twin share basis. Staff accommodation is on a single room basis. All hotels are clean and comfortable with a 2, 3 star equivalent rating. Suggested Hotels:Angkor Holiday Hotel (Siem Reap), River Home Hotel (Phnom Penh), Kampot Diamond Hotel (Kampot), Rock Royal Hotel (Kep), Lane Hotel (Vientiane), Thavisouk Hotel (Vang Vieng), Sunway Hotel (Luang Prabang). Transport: Modern air-conditioned bus, boat, plane Group size: Minimum of 24 students + 3 staff members
Tour Inclusions
- International return economy flights (Vietnam Airlines)
- 1internal international flight en route (Siem Reap– Vientiane)
- All accommodation and transport en route
- 1 Day Temple Pass for Angkor Temples in Siem Reap
- Domestic departure taxes and transfers
- Group Leader throughout the tour
- Local English speaking guides where required
- All sightseeing, entrance fees for museums, attractions and sights as described in itinerary
- Laotian & Cambodia visa
- Laos departure tax
- All breakfasts, 8lunches,13 dinners
- Drinking water with all included meals
Tour Exclusions
- 8 lunches & 4 dinners
- House building costs inSiem Reap - A$5,900 per house
- Orphanage or local village donationsin Siem Reap A$550
- School visit costsdonations / activities in Luang Prabang A$550
TRAVELLING IN ASIA
From its natural assets; screensaver landscapes, fantastic cuisine and always surprising cultures, Southeast Asia offers something for every traveller. Bustling cities with an energy driven by a new economy, quiet country villages reliant on rice agriculture as they have been for centuries, ornate Confucian temples such as those found in Laos, high-rises side by side with splendid French colonial architecture; the region is a place of contrasts. The Vietnamese, Khmer, Thai, Burmese and Laotian people have strong beliefs and values. They are a pragmatic people, with a philosophy to move forward, not to dwell on the past, and a determination to improve the lives of their children. Most of all they are warm and welcoming, and proud to show you their homelands.
WEATHER IN SOUTHEAST ASIA
Weather is very often one of the determining factors when we choose to travel. The Southeast Asian region is a diverse region, spanning several climatic zones. With a mountainous border along much of its western and northern frontiers, and a long, unprotected coastline, the weather can vary enormously from regions to region. The main seasons to consider are the southern wet/dry, and the northern winter/summer. From May to October, the southern areas of Vietnam, Thailand, Myanmar and Cambodia experience their wet season comprising daily, heavy - but short-lived and predictable - afternoon rain showers, which break up the otherwise hot and humid days. Temperatures are on average in the low 30s. From November to April, the dry season is sunny and humid, and sunscreen and hats are highly recommended. Weather patterns in central regions of Southeast Asia, including Central Vietnam, northern Myanmar and Laos can vary tremendously with a short rainy season lasting from November to December, with some typhoon activity from mid-October to mid-December. The highlands including Dalat in Vietnam and Luang Prabang in Laos are cooler than the coastal regions from November through March, with the coastal regions often experiencing drizzling rain from December through February. The north of Vietnam Myanmar and Laos has a very distinct summer, running from May to October, and is subject to occasional monsoons at this time. A cool winter with temperatures in the low -teens occurs from December through March. February and March can be damp and subject to drizzling rain (known as 'rain dust').
COUNTRY SPECIFIC INFORMATION: THAILAND
GETTING AROUND
While generally pleasant and hassle free, transport in Thailand can at times be erratic and at times and infuriating at others. Flight and train schedules changed, roads flood or close for no obvious reason and traffic can sometimes result in delays. Your tour leader or local guides will always be aware of the local conditions and ensure that all your transport throughout the country runs as smoothly as humanly possible.