Japan: It's part ancient traditions, part hypermodernity - and as Kirsty Bennetts discovers, it's all fascinating
It’s the little things that make Japan so intriguing. The amazingly efficient public transport system, the ticket collectors who bowed politely as I entered the carriages – you don’t get that on the 7.15 from ...
For some time now there have been many conflicting views on travel to Myanmar but tourism also brings much needed support to local communities so why not discover for yourself the breathtaking beauty and charm this country has to offer.
Myanmar stretches from the sparkling islands of the Andaman Sea in ...
Kirsty Bennetts, Asia Product Manager tells us of her recent Burma encounter.
Visiting Burma is controversial because the democratically elected leader, Aung San Suu Kyi, who is still under house arrest, has asked tourists to boycott the country to protest at the regime. The Burma Campaign supports this boycott, as does ...
There are so many festivals celebrated in the Orient it can be hard to keep track of them all. Here are a selection of our favourites and many others not to be missed.
China
Boasting rich cultural meaning and a long history, Chinese festivals play an important part in Chinese life
The Spring ...
One of Asia’s true enigmas, Japan is a dazzling fusion of old and new that makes it one of the most unique destinations to visit. The country is famous for its colourful festivals (called matsuri) and Kyoto’s Aoi Matsuri is no exception. Around 500 people wearing splendid ancient costumes and ...
We have been working really hard on all our 2009 brochures, making sure we make them full of experiences and the types of holiday that hopefully you won’t just be tempted to buy – you will definitely want to buy. I was praising two of our Product Managers – Kirsty ...
By Daniel Mills, Operations Executive
My life long ambition to visit Mongolia was finally realised in July of this year when I was afforded the opportunity of escorting our Festivals of Mongolia tour.
Our fascinating journey through the ‘Land of Blue Skies’ began with a day at the Naadam, Mongolia’s biggest festival. ...
I was lucky enough to go on an escorted trip, the “Yangtze Splendour”. 17 days of experiencing everything that China had to throw at me. From the booming cities of Beijing and Shanghai to the rapidly changing Yangtze River. From start to finish China was an education, an intense mixture ...
Millions of rural Chinese get around by bike - so what better way to meet them than to join them? Phil Ellis gets in the saddle...
Want a bike?” shouted a farmer, almost hidden behind an assortment of cycles. At first I thought he was asking us, none too politely and ...
by Vivienne Thorn, Human Resources Director
The Canadian Rockies – a rugged splendour with national parks, emerald lakes and unspoilt wilderness –discover this natural wonder by foot, raft and helicopter...
White Water Rafting
Enjoy river rafting down mountain rivers flowing from the majestic Canadian Rockies. This exhilarating experience is suitable for all ages ...
Ancient temples, bustling waterways, diverse peoples – Cambodia and Vietnam are photography nirvana. Kirsty Bennetts snaps away
Photographers thrive on diversity – and with such a range of landscapes, peoples and historic sites, Vietnam and Cambodia offer a staggering number and variety of photo opportunities.
Culturally, there are vibrant markets and friendly, ...
By Lizzie Johnson - India and Far East specialist
I knew immediately that I would love the bustling energy of Vietnam. After a much needed nights sleep in very comfy beds at Hanoi’s Sofitel Metropole, we set out to explore. The city has a decidedly French feeling, with tree lined avenues ...
With special solar eclipse departures, monastic stays at Mount Koya and easier access into North Korea…
Our new Orient 2009-10 brochure has now been launched, offering an increased choice of inspirational journeys. The programme introduces brand new escorted journeys to post-Olympic China, monastic stays at Japan’s holy Mount Koya, Bassac cruises ...
Food is such an important part of travel – here are some of our recommended food experiences when visiting Thailand, Jordan, Vietnam or India.
Vietnam – The Riverside Resort, Hoi An
The picturesque port of Hoi An is an UNESCO declared World Heritage Site and a lovely place to explore the narrow ...
Award winning comedy writer travels with Bales Worldwide on a Far East Adventure
Comedy writer and actor Stephen Merchant, famous for his work with Ricky Gervais on The Office, has just got back from a fifteen day tour with Bales Worldwide in Vietnam and Cambodia.
Stephen began his adventure exploring Vietnam’s Capital, ...
