The pulse radiating from Lijiang resonates a symphony full of soul, peace and ethnic harmony. To the north of this beautiful city rises the majestic Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, a sacred sanctuary which has protected the ethnic minorities and their unique cultures since ancient times. Another splendor is the Old Town of Lijiang, regarded as the Venice of the Orient because of the many bridges and canals that lace through the maze of cobbled streets. This historic town was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997 for its ethnic charm, historical milieu and architectural landscape.

Banyan Tree Lijiang’s luxurious villas reflect the rich fabric of this locale through their design and furnishings. For souvenirs, visit the inimitable Banyan Tree Gallery and bring home exclusive handicrafts – each traditional memento has a story to tell about the misty hamlet of Lijiang.

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Minahasa Lagoon Resort - 5D4N promotional package from S$1,078 per person including Silkair return airfare ex-Singapore

The Minahasa Lagoon boasts 15 cottages (each with 2 to 4 beds), a swimming pool, 2 restaurants, a diving center, and various boats more than 10 meters long and private buses. Since ancient times, the local inhabitants have called this place “Mangatasik” which literally means ”a beauty which leaves you open-mouthed.” And that is how we want it to stay.

Minahasa Lagoon Cottage sleeps up to 2 Adults and 2 Children

At Minahasa Lagoon every comfortable and air-conditioned bungalow has its own veranda overlooking the sea so that the surrounding views can be fully appreciated.

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Oberoi Lombok 3D2N package from S$688 per person including Silkair return airfare ex-Singapore

Exotic islands, swaying palm trees, lush vegetation, all that is enchanting about the Archipelago of Indonesia is waiting for you at The Oberoi, Lombok. Peace and tranquility reign in the secluded clusters of thatched roof Pavilions and Villas just a step away from breathtaking beauty of scenic beaches.

Catch the Saturday Silkair flight from Singapore to Lombok and experience unsploilt paradise only hours away. Treat yourself to a long weekend, and return home to the city on the Monday evening flight.

Validity of Tour Packages

• Oct 01, 2008 - Jan 31, 2009

Infinity Pool Oberoi Lombok

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Rebak Island Resort 3D2N package starts at just S$480 per person including return airfare on Silkair ex-Singapore

The Rebak Island Resort is a unique and exclusive haven located on the secluded and privately owned 389-acre Rebak Island, less than 5 km from the mythical island of Langkawi, Malaysia. Its sheltered harbour offers protection from the harshest elements, while allowing you to commune with nature in a comfortable and secure environment.

View from the Rebak Island Marina boardwalk

The resort is well equipped and the timber villas are set in clusters across the beautiful gardens. The resort offers airport transfers, full business facilities and a meeting room that can accommodate up to 100 persons. Also featured is the only fully-equipped marina in Malaysia, complemented by a range of yacht services and facilities. Other on-site services and facilities include Internet access, laundry, car rentals, a library and a lounge. For dining, there are a number of restaurants as well as the option of in-room dining from 7 am until 11 pm.

Your comfort is assured with recently upgraded amenities, individually metered electricity & freshwater supply and 24- hour security. The adjacent Rebak Island Resort, managed by the Taj Hotels, Resorts & Palaces Group, offers further respite to the weary traveler with its luxury - class service and facilities.

Read or download » Wah! Taj Rebak! - a Weekend Getaway! a recent travel article in GO NOW

Read or download » Taj Rebak Island Resort Fact Sheet

Pics & Other Info

Superior Sea View Room of the Rebak Island Resort

Superior Sea View Room
The 48 sqm Superior Sea View Rooms face the ocean and enjoy spectacular seascapes. They have loungers in the balcony for guests to relax and appreciate the view of the Senari Straits. The bathrooms have bath tubs with individual shower cubicles.

Deluxe Sea View Room in Rebak Island Resort

Deluxe Sea View Room
The 76 sqm Deluxe Sea View Rooms are located on the beach front. They have balconies facing the Senari Straits and direct access to the beach. Select rooms at ground level have tropical outdoor showers.

Deluxe One-bedroom Villa in Rebak Island Resort

Deluxe One-Bedroom Villa
The Deluxe One-bedroom Villas - A 103 sqm bedroom that comes with a large living room and dining area complete with contemporary furnishing and a balcony with loungers.

Cave silhouette - just one of the natural marvels on the island

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The exclusive Banyan Tree Sanya Resort and Spa, located at Luhuitou Bay, Hainan, will be the first all-pool villa resort in China. Boasting 49 lavish pool villas nestled in the tropical lagoon landscape of the enchanting resort, the resort is set to be another jewel in Banyan Tree’s collection of properties; featuring a spa and hydrotherapy development, signature dining outlets, and extensive conference facilities.

Lounge area of the Deluxe Pool Villa

Located on the southern tip of Hainan Island, Sanya lies at approximately the same latitude as Hawaii - thus earning itself the name “Oriental Hawaii”.

Because of its advantageous gateway location, Sanya plays an important role in connecting China with Southwest Asia, Africa and Europe. The area of Sanya is about 1,919 square kilometers, 91.6 kilometers long from the east to the west, and 51.2 kilometers wide from the north to the south. With a coastline stretching 209.1 kilometers, it has 10 islets and 19 harbors.

Sanya is revered for being a tropical resort paradise because of its wonderful weather that averages 25.4 degrees throughout the year. Boasting white sandy beaches and clear blue seas and breathtaking scenery, it is fast becoming a popular holiday destination, playing host to international events such as the Ms World Finals.

Banyan Tree Resort and Spa is half an hour away by car from Sanya Phoenix International Airport.

Bedroom of the Presidential Villa, Banyan Tree Sanya

Opening Special!

Be one of the first to spend an unforgettable getaway at the exclusive Banyan Tree Sanya Resort and Spa - China’s first all pool villa. The latest jewel in Banyan Tree’s growing collection of properties, this enchanting resort is set to dazzle with its lush interior and beautiful landscape.

5D4N Banyan Tree Sanya Package Prices in SGD and on per person basis
Stay 4 nights, Pay 3 nights

Valid from Jul 21 to Oct 31, 2008, both dates inclusive

Pool Villa

• S$1,466 Twin
• S$2,896 Single

Deluxe Pool Villa

• S$1,718 Twin
• S$3,398 Single

Spa Pool Villa

• S$2,174 Twin
• S$4,311 Single

5D4N Package Includes

• Return airport transfers
• 04 nights in choice of Villa
• Daily breakfasts
• 20% off a-la-carte Massage at Banyan Tree Spa

5D4N Package Excludes

• All airfare and airport taxes - please check with us for air reservations and cost
• China Visa, where applicable
• Airline peak season surcharge
• Resort peak period surcharge

Valid from Jul 21 to Oct 31, 2008, both dates inclusive

All Banyan Tree Sanya Villas face the sea

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Ancient Culture
Historically known as Yazhou, human habitation of the Sanya area dates back 10,000 years. In March 1992, ancient relics were found in and around Luobi Cave in Lizhigou Town near Sanya City. In addition, groups of ancient Persian tombs are located along the coast. Under Chinese Emperor Qingshihuang (221 BC), three counties were established in the south, one of which was Yazhou, or Xiangjun County. During the Tang Dynasty, emperors banished rebel officers to the area, which became known as the “End of the Earth” due to its remoteness in relation to the nation’s capital.

The Ethnic Minorities
There are over 20 nationalities living in communities in Sanya with a population of over 6 million. After the Hainanese which make up 83% of the population, the major population group is the Li, Miao followed by Hui.

Li Minority
The Li Minority was the original settlers on Hainan Island over 3000 years from Mainland China. Now numbering more than 1.14 million, The Li’s traditional residence is made up of bamboo or wood, in the shape of a boat with thatch coating the outer walls. This group is also gifted at singing and dancing and traditional performances include bamboo dance, double-sword dance and Caoli dance. For musical entertainment, the Li’s instruments include nose fluting, tree leave fluting and bamboo fluting.

Miao Minority
The Miao and Li people share the common ancestor. Chiyou tribes from the east and the south were posted from Guangxi to Hainan Island to safeguard the frontier during Jiajing and Wanli Times of the Ming Dynasty. The soldiers then retreated and remained on the island, evolving into today’s Miao people. Miao people boast a history of over 400 years on this island, with a population of about 60,000. Li and Miao share the same traditional festive day, the Lunar March 3.

Hui Minority
The Hui Minority, called Hui people in ancient times all are Muslim with Islam as their religion. Their ancestors are offspring of the nuptials between Arabians and Han people. After the Xihan Dynasty, the Arabian Muslims on route to the Silk Road rested in Hainan for fresh water and supplies or to seek refuge from pirates, thus forming the original community of the Hui people.

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Romance packages from S$412 per person including return ferry tickets ex-Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal, Singapore

Villa by the Rocks, Banyan Tree Bintan

Located in a lush tropical setting overlooking the South China Sea, a stillness of spirit pervades the body and soul at Banyan Tree Bintan. Here, you can discover true peace, tranquility and rejuvenation while being spoilt in the comfort of your own luxurious villa. Experience the finest facilities in a serene environment, be it a sensuous spa treatment or a round of golf on our Greg Norman-designed championship golf course. You will be mesmerized by the sights and sounds of Banyan Tree’s natural habitat – its tropical forest, hillside terrain and secluded golden beach create an unforgettable setting.

2D1N ROMANCE BANYAN TREE

Tour Cost
All rates in Singapore Dollars on Per Person Twin-share Basis

Valley Villa

• S$ 412 Double
• S$ 308 Per Extension Night

Seaview Villa

• S$ 428 Double
• S$ 325 Per Extension Night

Bayfront Villa

• S$ 448 Double
• S$ 345 Per Extension Night

Seafront Villa

• S$ 463 Double
• S$ 360 Per Extension Night

Villa on the Rocks

• S$ 478 Double
• S$ 378 Per Extension Night

Valley Villa

• S$ 480 Double
• S$ 365 Per Extension Night

Seaview Villa

• S$ 498 Double
• S$ 385 Per Extension Night

Bayfront Villa

• S$ 515 Double
• S$ 399 Per Extension Night

Seafront Villa

• S$ 535 Double
• S$ 416 Per Extension Night

Villa on the Rocks

• S$ 549 Double
• S$ 436 Per Extension Night

Tour Cost Includes

• Return ferry tickets from Singapore (TTMT) to Bintan Resorts (BBT)
• Return land transfers in Bintan Resorts (Ferry Terminal - Banyan Tree Bintan - Ferry Terminal)
• Terminal levies and baggage handling charges
• 01 night stay in choice of Villa at Banyan Tree Bintan with breakfast
• **Half-day Relaxing Spa package at Aroma Day Spa (Kampoeng Lagoi)
• Government and Service taxes

Tour Cost Excludes

• S$11.00 per person for ex-SIN Sunday ferry departure surcharge
• S$2.20 Security Tax, S$10 Fuel Cost Adjustment Levy & $2 Indonesia Departure Tax per person
• Indonesian Visa, where applicable
• Travel insurance
• Personal expenses like hard/soft drinks, phone calls, laundry, other spa treatments, etc.

Validity of Tour Package

• May 15 - Dec 19, 2008
• Not valid for black-out dates

Black-out Dates

• Aug 09, 2008
• Oct 25 - 29, 2008
• Dec 05 - 07, 2008

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**Half Day Relaxing Spa Package Includes

• Pick up from Hotel Lobby
• Welcome drink at Aroma Day Spa
• 50-minute spa treatment (choice of body massage OR foot reflexology)
• Lunch or dinner at Warung Bumbu (Choose 1 Set from 5 Javanese Specials and a glass of Ice Tea)
• Free and Easy time for bargain shopping at Kampoeng Lagoi and Pasar Oleh Oleh
• Transfer from Aroma Day Spa to Hotel

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Nikoi Island 3D2N package from S$636 per person including return ferry tickets ex-Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal, Singapore

Please note: Weekend (Friday, Saturday & Sunday) stays in one-bedded beach-house are best booked at least 3 months in advance. These are limited in number but more are being built to meet demand.

Nikoi Bar and Restaurant is located by the beach

Nikoi Island is a 15 hectare island 8km off the east coast of Bintan, Indonesia.
Long regarded as one of the most stunning islands on this relatively unspoiled coast, Nikoi Island is fortunate to have remained in pristine condition. it is ringed with white sandy beaches and coral reefs of spectacular colour and diversity, and a coastline studded with magnificent white granite boulders that seemingly defy gravity.

The island also boasts a rainforest where colossal trees including the native Banyan trees, provide a santuary to a diverse population of local birds.

Barefoot luxury at it’s very best. Bedroom with vaulted ceiling, electric fan and king sized bed
resplendent in luxurious white cotton sheets draped with generous mosquito nets

Validity of Tour Package

• May 12 - Dec 31, 2008

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Banyan Tree Bintan 3D2N package from S$616 per person including return ferry tickets ex-Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal, Singapore

Living area of the Bayfront Pool Villa, Banyan Tree Bintan

A secluded and private bay in the north-western tip of Bintan Island, Indonesia, is the perfect location for Banyan Tree Bintan, an epitome of luxurious living, offering an exclusive villa lifestyle amidst the mystic charm of its natural surroundings. Perched on a cliffside with a panoramic vista of the South China Sea, the resort’s dramatic backdrop is just one of its many breathtaking aesthetic virtues. Beautiful architecture that blends in with its surrounding, world class facilities and amenities, and an array of leisure activities make Banyan Tree Bintan your first choice for the perfect island getaway.

Cocooned in the luxury of your villa, you will discover the true sense of well being and rejuvenation. Be it perched on the hill slope, on the boulders next to the sea or tucked away in a valley, each villa at Banyan Tree Bintan promises subtle luxury, with dark wooden furniture, wide, open verandah and exclusive in-room amenities. Additional touches of luxury include private swimming pools, open-air jet pool and sunken bath in the bathroom.

3D2N BANYAN TREE BINTAN

Tour Cost
All rates in Singapore Dollars on Per Person basis

Bay-front Pool Villa

• S$1,277 Double
• S$2,516 Single
• S$1,224 Per Extension Night

Villa on the Rocks

• S$ 760 Double
• S$1,478 Single
• S$ 708 Per Extension Night

Sea-front Villa

• S$ 724 Double
• S$1,410 Single
• S$ 672 Per Extension Night

Bay-front Villa

• S$ 688 Double
• S$1,341 Single
• S$ 635 Per Extension Night

Sea-view Villa

• S$ 652 Double
• S$1,268 Single
• S$ 600 Per Extension Night

Valley Villa

• S$ 616 Double
• S$1,212 Single
• S$ 572 Per Extension Night

Bay-front Pool Villa

• S$1,530 Double
• S$2,974 Single
• S$1,464 Per Extension Night

Villa on the Rocks

• S$ 894 Double
• S$1,736 Single
• S$ 828 Per Extension Night

Sea-front Villa

• S$ 858 Double
• S$1,667 Single
• S$ 792 Per Extension Night

Bay-front Villa

• S$ 820 Double
• S$1,594 Single
• S$ 756 Per Extension Night

Sea-view Villa

• S$ 784 Double
• S$1,518 Single
• S$ 716 Per Extension Night

Valley Villa

• S$ 750 Double
• S$1,450 Single
• S$ 685 Per Extension Night

Tour Cost Includes

• Return ferry tickets from TMFT (Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal), Singapore to BBT (Bandar Bentan Telani), Bintan Island
• Terminal levies and baggage handling charges
• 02-way land transfers in Bintan Resorts (Ferry Terminal - Banyan Tree Bintan - Ferry Terminal)
• 02 nights in choice of Villa at Banyan Tree Bintan
• Government and Service taxes

Tour Cost Excludes

• S$2.20 Security Tax, S$10 Fuel Cost Adjustment Levy & $2 Indonesia Departure Tax per person
• Indonesian Visa, where applicable
• Travel insurance
• All meals and beverages
• Personal expenses like hard/soft drinks, phone calls, laundry, spa treatments, etc.
• PEAK SEASON SURCHARGE of S$60 per villa per night on top of weekend rates applies from Dec 22, 2008 - Jan 02, 2009 ~ minimum 02 nights stay

Validity of Tour Package

• May 12, 2008 - Jan 02, 2009
• PEAK SEASON SURCHARGE of S$60 per villa per night on top of weekend rates applies from Dec 22, 2008 - Jan 02, 2009 ~ minimum 02 nights stay

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Villa by the Rocks, Banyan Tree Bintan

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Eastern & Oriental Hotel - 3D2N package starts at just S$799 per person, including return airfare on Singapore Airlines ex-Singapore

The Eastern & Oriental Hotel is a tranquil haven in the heart of Penang. A hotel of old, colonial charm with the finest traditions of comfort and service. On the door step is an amazing heritage of art and architecture, festivals and food. The Eastern & Oriental Hotel is but a few minutes walk from the myriad of shops, restaurants, cafes, bars and clubs. And beyond the city, hills and villages, seas and beaches beckon enticingly.

The Eastern & Oriental Hotel is old world charm and the choice of many of the world’s most discerning travellers

From its foundation by the Sarkies brothers in 1885, the E&O was patronised by colonial administrators, planters and the local and international elite. Amongst its more famous guests it has welcomed Noel Coward, Douglas Fairbanks, Hermann Hesse, Rudyard Kipling and Somerset Maugham. Today, it is still choice of many of the world’s most discerning travellers.

All suites are magnificently furnished and extravagantly spacious. Every guest who stays at the E&O receives guarantees that guests’ personal needs and comfort are a constant focus from the moment they arrive.

A magnificent pool with its view across the sea is the focal point for guests seeking to unwind or to energise the body, mind and spirit.

To many travellers, the E&O has become a sanctuary. A place where there is always enough time for the things that really matter.

Validity of All Packages

• Aug 23, 2007 - Mar 31, 2008

3D2N PENANG GETAWAY

Tour Cost Per Person based on double-share

• SGD $799 for Georgetown Suite (79 sqm; City or courtyard view suites)
• SGD $834 for Premier Suite (58 sqm; Spectacular sea view suites)
• SGD $891 for Straits Suite (87 sqm; Sea facing suites overlooking the Straits of Penang)
• SGD $977 for Writer’s Suite (135 sqm; named after famous guests who had stayed at the E&O; Sir Noel Coward, Rudyard Kipling, Hermann Hesse & Somerset Maugham)
• SGD $1,294 for Java Suite (87 sqm; Sea facing suites overlooking the Straits of Penang)

Tour Cost Includes

• Return economy airfare on Singapore Airlines ‘Q’ Class: SIN/PEN/SIN
• All airport taxes (ex-SIN taxes currently SGD $128 per person)
• Return airport transfers in limousine
• Daily breakfasts
• Choice of accommodation in Suites for 2 persons

Tour Cost Excludes

• Visa, where applicable
• Personal expenses like hard/soft drinks, phone calls, laundry, spa treatments, etc.

Peak season surcharge by Singapore Airlines and/or E&O Hotel

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Amansara’s Khmer Village House constructed in 1999, is inspired by the square, symmetrical monks’ quarters in the grounds of a Cambodian pagoda that are residences for living, studying and sleeping.

the Bayon face contemplates and waits

Designed as a rest house for guests from the provinces, its function also encompassed a place for meditation. In keeping with the elegantly sparse interior, two antique pieces of Cambodian furniture — a cabinet and bed on trestle legs are there for the comfort of guests. The architectural style features open shuttered windows with an exterior veranda terrace. Woods featured in the pavilion include Cambodian timbers such as teak and redwood.

The Khmer Village House sits in a lush garden setting

Carved motifs on the pediment, doorway and windows are adapted from traditional Khmer motifs. The kitchen and back tiled terrace are additions made when the house was built, then later slightly modified by Amansara. As in all traditional wooden Khmer architecture, the pavilion is elevated on wooden columns to provide cooling airflow around the structure and in addition, create a usable working and relaxing space beneath.

Shuttered windows opens out to an exterior veranda terrace

The Khmer Village House sits in a lush garden setting (replete with Khmer herbs, spices and vegetables) on the embankment of Srah Srang, a 10th century “royal bathing pool” measuring 700m by 300m, excavated before the reign of Jayavarman VII. The pool has a border of laterite steps with an outer margin of sandstone and is believed to be fed by a deep water spring. A ¼ hour drive from Amansara enjoy a choice of four excursions in these special surroundings.

4D3N Amansara’s Khmer Village House
Valid from Feb 01 - Oct 31, 2008

Tour Cost
Prices in US$ per person and based on double occupancy

• US$1,720 Suite
• US$2,090 Pool Suite

Extension Night

• US$ 540 Suite
• US$ 660 Pool Suite

Tour Cost Includes

• 03 nights’ stay in choice of Suite or Pool Suite
• Return airport transfers
• Daily breakfast and choice of lunch or dinner, house beverages, house wine
• 02 (two) house outings per day with private guide and driver
• 10% service charge and 13.42% government tax
• Single occupancy rates are available on request

Tour Cost Excludes

• All airfares & airport taxes
• Entry pass to Angkor park is US$20 per person for a one-day pass and US$40 per person for a three-day pass
• Personal expenditure like optional tours/activities, spa treatments, etc.

Note

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Optional Activities at Amansara Khmer Village House

A Picnic by the Lake
US$150 plus 21% tax and service charge (for two persons)**

After a busy morning or afternoon exploring the great Angkorian civilisation, rejuvenate and relax in a picnic setting on the front veranda, overlooking the lake. A blanket will be laid out with a picnic selection including steamed dumplings, fritters and coconut based delicacies. Two bicycles are permanently stationed at the house for exploring the countryside.

Rural Healing
US$300 plus 21% tax and service charge (for one person)**

Enjoy the touch of the East in the Khmer Village House. The non-oil massage has long been a part of most eastern cultures but the Khmer people lend their own special style to this treatment. The pressure is firm, and the stretch gentle. The treatment consists of a 1½ hours non-oil massage, with an additional 1½ hours of rural relaxation. A musician will play softly in the distance, while you enjoy a warm ginger tea and a selection of Khmer sweets on the veranda.

When Evening Comes
US$350 plus 21% tax and service charge (for two persons)**

The veranda of the Khmer Village House is the best place to view the setting sun and the villagers returning from their days work. As drinks are served and the garden flares lit, a musician will play quietly while traditional Khmer dishes are prepared over charcoal fire. The only light will be from the moon and a few flickering candles. After dinner, ginger tea served on a daybed inside the house allows you to take your time and be drawn closer to the spirit of Cambodia.

The Art of Khmer Cooking
US$250 plus 21% tax and service charge (for two persons)**

If morning markets and the subtleties of Khmer cuisine intrigue you then Amansara can offer a leisurely morning of sourcing local ingredients and traditional cooking. The day starts early in the morning, when the air is cool and the markets are teaming with fresh produce. One of Amansara’s kitchen brigade will guide you through the labyrinth of passages and overflowing stalls in the local market. A shopping list and some local riel are all that is needed to purchase the essential items for the day’s menu. It is then out of the city and off into the peaceful countryside and Amansara’s haven, the Khmer Village House. A small farm garden is located at the rear of the house containing fresh herbs, vegetables and chillies, gathered to use as ingredients. A Khmer chef will guide you through the recipes in the traditional kitchen. The menu is easy to duplicate back at home for family and friends.

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Small Group Departure
Group Size: Min 02 persons, Max. 12 persons

Jun 02 - 12, 2008

One of the ancient names given to Bhutan was ‘Southern Valleys of Medicinal Herbs’ and thanks to the enlightened leadership of Bhutan’s kings and the strong conservation ethic of the Bhutanese people an estimated 770 species of birds and more than 50 species of rhododendron alone, besides a large variety of medicinal plants and orchids, are found in the country.

Bhutanese novice monks

Soon after Losar, the Bhutanese New Year, the glories of the Kingdom’s flora slowly begin to unfold, the landscape sheds its winter coat taking on every shade of green, up at the Dochula Pass two varieties of Primula Denticulata emerge through the frost covered ground, the Chele La is carpeted in Edelweiss and in early June rhododendrons are in full bloom. Encompassing seven valleys, of differing altitudes, and three high passes at this time of the year makes for the perfect experience for culture and nature lovers alike.

Travelling through Bhutan’s ethereal landscape on the way to the wild centre, we pass countless golden roofed monasteries and prayer flag covered hilltops, navigate endless emerald valleys and ancient forests with snow-capped Himalayan peaks in the background throughout. This ten-night package promises an easy yet comprehensive experience of the Himalayan kingdom of Bhutan, with accommodation split between the luxury resort of Uma Paro, and carefully-sourced, traditional hotels in the less developed regions. The adventure starts with an exploration of the bustling markets and colorful museums of the capital Thimpu, before heading over the spectacular Dochu La (pass) and following the Mo Chhu (Mother River) to Punakha and the Divine Madman’s temple Chimmi Lhakhang. Sampling this Himalayan kingdom’s inimitable Buddhist culture along the way, our journey continues on through the Black Mountains past yaks grazing on dwarf bamboo, reaching the sacred heart of Bhutan, the four valleys of Bumthang – beautifully rustic and deeply spiritual at the same time.

On the return journey we stopover in Phobjikha an unusually wide, beautiful alpine wetland valley where the rare Black Necked Cranes fly down from Tibet to spend the winter. Once settled into the comfortable Uma Paro, the main temples, monasteries and dzongs of the Paro Valley are on our doorstep with the awe inspiring walk up to the Tiger’s Nest monastery as a fitting highlight to end this exploration of the Land of the Thunder Dragon.

Tour Package Cost

Superior Room (Forest views)

• USD $2,741 Twin/Double
• USD $3,146 Single

Deluxe Room (Valley and mountain views)

• USD $2,887 Twin/Double
• USD $3,438 Single

Suite & Villa rates are available on request

Tour Package Includes

• ** FIT Surcharge Waiver for Druk Air arrival/departure flights on Jun 02 and 12, 2008
• All Bhutanese Government Visa Fees, Taxes and Royalties
• All transport including airport transfers
• 03 nights in choice of Superior or Deluxe Rooms
• 07 nights ††local hotels
• Full board meals throughout (excluding beverages)
• The services of an experienced Uma Paro English-speaking Bhutanese Guide
• Mineral water and picnic lunches on all days out
• All entry permits and fees
• Fire lit courtyard farewell dinner
• Complimentary scheduled 01-hour daily yoga class whilst at Uma Paro (except Sundays)
• Complimentary use of the swimming pool, library and gym at Uma Paro

** FIT Surcharge Waiver
In order to take advantage of the FIT surcharge waiver guests must arrive and depart on the scheduled Druk Air flights to and from Bangkok on the Jun 02 and 12, 2008.
Any other flight arrival/departure dates will attract the FIT surcharge of US$30 per person per day for a group size of 02 persons, and US$40 per person per day for single travellers.

††local hotels Outside of Uma Paro, we have selected well located, comfortable, somewhat rustic but charming hotels in terms of food and accommodation, for our journey.

Tour Package Excludes

• All airfare & airport taxes in/out Paro (please check with us for Druk Air airfares from connecting cities)
• Personal expenditure such as phone bills, laundry, hard/soft beverages, optional tours, etc.

Group size: Min. 02 persons, Max. 12 persons

The group will be led by one of Uma Paro’s highly trained and knowledgeable Bhutanese guide throughout. All your main luggage is carried for you and you will only have to carry whatever you require for that days’ walks or tours. All single travellers benefit from their own room throughout.

Uma Paro provides complimentary drinking water for all guided itineraries. If you have any special dietary requests, please let us know in advance. Where stated, trips include lunchtime picnics prepared by Uma Paro’s chefs.

A 50% deposit of the total amount is required at the time of booking.
This deposit in non-refundable if the booking is cancelled within 30 days of the start date of the trip.
The remaining 50% payment is required 30 days prior to arrival date.

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Itinerary
Note: This itinerary is intended as a guide only. Local conditions and weather may necessitate variations to the programme and can affect the availability of views and panoramas described.
Be aware that all times stated are approximate, and may vary with individual and group fitness, inclinations and interests.

Day 01/ Mon / Jun 02 / Arrive Paro - Thimphu
Arrival at Paro International Airport, Thimpu Sightseeing your Uma Paro guide will welcome you at the airport for the one and a half hour scenic drive to Thimpu, winding alongside two snaking rivers and passing countless fine examples of the quaint, traditional farmhouse architecture of Bhutan. The capital itself sprawls up the wooded western hillside of the Wang Chhu and is the centre of government, religion and commerce, Thimpu is a bustling town where traditional ways mingle with modern introductions. After check in to our hotel in the heart of the capital, the sightseeing begins.

Duration of drive: 1.5 – 2 hours (50km)
Overnight: Jhomalhari Hotel, Thimpu (www.hoteljhomalhari.com)

Day 02 / Tue / Jun 03 / Thimpu Sightseeing, Punakha Valley via Dochu La, Chimmi Lhakhang
After breakfast, the sightseeing begins in earnest and depending on opening hours, guests’ interests and time, your guide may include some of the following in your private schedule:
The National Memorial Chorten, Trashi Chhoe Dzong: the “fortress of the glorious religion”, the National Institute of Traditional Medicine, the National Textile Museum, the Weekend Market, the Folk Heritage Museum, or you may wish to just go window shopping or perhaps try the one hour walk up to Tango Monastery at the head of the valley. It is th