Land Tour
16 days
$AUD 514 per day
Departure: Cambodia
Arrival: Laos
Adventure
Private / Tailor made
Explore two former French colonies and uncover some of the unforgettable places in Southeast Asia. From exquisite golden temples to refreshing turquoise waterfalls.
Follow a different path as you discover the mysterious Plain of Jars archaeological site, before travelling through lands of raw beauty and a slower, more traditional way of life. Continuing into Cambodia, explore lesser-known temples and come face to face with the country's harrowing past. On this journey, you will eat like a local, live with the locals in their homes and support local community projects. A wonderful hands-on way to understand two diverse lands through culturally immersive experiences.]]>
* Pricing is subject to change at anytime until full payment has been received.
* A minimum of 4 adults is required to guarantee this departure.
A non-refundable deposit of $1000 AUD per person is required to secure your place. Final payment is due no later than 60 days prior to departure. Travel insurance is mandatory for travelling with Crooked Compass. For full terms and conditions, please click here.]]>
Saibadee! Welcome to Laos. Upon arrival, you will be met by your local guide and transferred to your hotel. The UNESCO World Heritage small city of Luang Prabang is a favourite for many travellers. Nestled in the hills of northern Laos between the Mekong and Khan Rivers it is a wonderful place to explore by foot or jump onto a Jumbo (local transport) to experience a local’s perspective on the town.
Tonight, you will experience a Laos feast. Served in family style, which means all the dishes will be served up on the table and you can try them all. Enjoy all the local flavours and foods from chunky bamboo soup to sausages and dips accompanied by sticky rice, herbed fished in banana leaf, lemongrass stuffed chicken, pumpkin with kaffir lime and ginger and a selection of sweet Laos confections.
Meals
Dinner in a local restaurant
Accommodation
3 nights Kiridara Luang Prabang – Deluxe Room or similar
Services
Airport Transfer
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Luang Prabang City Tour
After breakfast, enjoy a short guided tour exploring the city’s oldest temple Wat Sene and the magnificent Wat Xiengthong with its roof sweeping low to the ground, which represents classical Laotian architecture. You will also visit the National Museum (former Royal Palace), which hosts a range of interesting artefacts and the Traditional Arts and Ethnology Centre to learn about Laos’ many ethnic minorities.
Note: National Museum is currently closed on every Thursday of the last week of the month.
Mekong River Cruise and Pak Ou Caves
You then board a cruise upstream on the Mekong River, which provides you with a panoramic view of the tranquil countryside as well as an interesting visit to the mysterious Pak Ou Caves. Two linked caves are crammed with thousands of gold lacquered Buddha statues of various shapes and sizes left by pilgrims. You might want to climb up to the top of Mount Phousi where you can explore the sacred, gilded stupa as well as take in sweeping views of the city and the Mekong River at sunset.
Night Market
Finish the day visiting the famous Night Market, where you can find a fascinating selection of handmade textiles made by local and hill tribe people surrounding Luang Prabang.
Meals
Breakfast
Accommodation
Kiridara Luang Prabang – Deluxe Room or similar
Services
Private vehicle with English-speaking guide
Mekong River Cruise
Sightseeing: Wat Sene, Wat Xiengthong, National Museum (former Royal Palace), Traditional Arts and Ethnology Centre, Night Market, Pak Ou Caves
Travel time and distance
Optional walk to Mount Phousi: It is about a 330-step climb and will take roughly 15-20 minutes.
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Optional: Offering of Alms
For those who are early risers and are keen to experience the mystical aura of Luang Prabang, there is an optional early start giving you the opportunity to participate in the daily morning rituals of saffron-clad monks collecting offerings of Alms, (often in the form of sticky rice), from the faithful residents.
Community Farm
After breakfast, head out to the outskirts of town and spend an enjoyable half day on a community-based rice farm situated in the idyllic countryside, surrounded by mountains and rice paddies. Experience the life of a farmer by trying your hand at various farm activities, providing great photo opportunities for all participants. Alternatively, watch life on the farm unfold from the comfort of a traditional Lao rice house balcony, surrounded by rice terraces and an organic vegetable farm. During the experience, you’ll also have the opportunity to learn about bamboo weaving, blacksmith work, and sugar cane processing. Afterwards, tour the organic garden and learn how natural herbs are used in traditional medicine. Later, enjoy lunch with Lao dishes at the restaurant overlooking the farm.
Kuang Si Waterfall
Afterwards, you drive to the beautiful Kuang Si Waterfall where you can splash around in the turquoise pools or walk along the forest paths. On the way, you will visit villages of various minorities Laotian (Ban Quay, Ban Ou). There’s also an opportunity to visit the bear sanctuary nearby the waterfall which is run by Free The Bears Fund Inc.
Ock Pop Tok
You finish the day with a visit to Ock Pop Tok. This Laos-based social enterprise works primarily in the fields of textiles, handicrafts, and design. Meaning ‘east meets west’, Ock Pop Tok brings the fascinating world of traditional Lao handicrafts alive for visitors. The Living Crafts Centre overlooking the Mekong is the heart of Ock Pop Tok and a fascinating place to visit. Enjoy a drink at Ock Pop Tok Silk Road Café and amazing views over the Mekong here.
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation
Kiridara Luang Prabang – Deluxe Room or similar
Services
Private vehicle with English-speaking guide
Sightseeing: Offering of Alms (optional), community farm tour, Kuang Si Waterfall, village visits (Ban Quay, Ban Ou), bear sanctuary (optional), Ock Pop Tok.
Distance and Journey Time
approx. 30km/way (50 minutes to Kuang Si Waterfall)
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Flight to Pakse
This morning you will be transferred to the airport for your flight to Pakse.
Suggested flight: QV513 LPQ PKZ 8:30 10:10
Arrive Champasak
On arrival at Pakse, you will be met and transferred to Champasak, the former capital of the Kingdom of Champasak (1713–1946). Champasak is now a small town set on the banks of the Mekong. The highlight of this one-street town is the picturesque pre-Angkorian Wat Phou Temple.
Pre-Angkorian Wat Phou Temple
Built between the 6th and 13th centuries, the temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, inscribed for being an outstanding example of the integration of a symbolic landscape of great spiritual significance to its natural surroundings.
Wat Phou
Depart Pakse and drive 35km (22 mi) south through pleasant rural scenery of hills and local villages to Champasak and explore Wat Phou. Notice how the temple is divided into two parts: the lower section consisting of two ruined palace buildings at the edge of a pond and the upper section, which is the temple sanctuary itself. You have the option to climb the old staircase adorned with nagas (mythical snakes) to admire the surrounding scenery. Stay overnight at a hotel on the riverbank in Champasak.
Meals
Breakfast
Accommodation
The River Resort – Riverfront Villa or similar
Services
Private vehicle with English-speaking guide
Sightseeing: pre-Angkorian Wat Phou Temple
Distance and Journey Time
1hr drive 40km
NOTES: It is recommended that guests wear proper walking attire as the climb up to the main temple can be slippery at times.
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Bolaven Plateau and Paksong
Depart Champask for approx. 1.5-2 hours’ drive to the Bolaven Plateau. The Bolaven Plateau is known for its cooler temperature being located high above the Mekong Valley. Rivers run off this high plateau in all directions and then plunge out to lush forests in a series of spectacular surging waterfalls. The coffee and tea grown in these areas are said to be some of the best in the world. The hill tribe people are unfailingly friendly, welcoming you with waving hands and smiling faces. These ethnic minorities still retain their age-old cultural traditions and are recognisably distinct from each other by their dress. Continue your journey through the Paksong and Bolaven Plateau.
Tad Fane Waterfall
The scenery around Tad Fane waterfall is spectacular with twin waterfalls plummeting into a deep gorge surrounded by flourishing vegetation. Today you see the cultivation of rich coffee, tea, cardamom, bananas, and other crops that are grown in the area.
Meals
Breakfast
Accommodation
Sabaidee Valley – Deluxe Room or similar
Services
Private vehicle with English-speaking guide
Sightseeing: Bolaven Plateau, Paksong, Tad Fane Waterfall
Distance and Journey Time
approx. 1.5hr drive 70km
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Depart Bolaven Plateau
Enjoy cool fresh air in the morning of the Bolaven plateau before continuing your journey with approx. 1.5 hours drive to Kingfisher Ecolodge, sitting on the boundaries of Xe Pian NPA and the Kiat Ngong village.
Phou Asa Mountain Trek
Enjoy an afternoon trek to Phou Asa Mountain featuring stunning views over large areas of southern Laos, intriguing ruins and dense semi-evergreen forests. Walk along forest trails accompanied by a village guide to explore this archaeological site while learning about the forest including its many medicinal plants and non-timber forest products. The guides will also point out signs of wildlife (tracks, scat and habits) and other features of the forest. Atop the mountain, you will see an ancient stone structure called Vat Phou Asa, which is believed to be a temple. Return to Kingfisher Ecolodge for dinner & overnight.
The hike departs from Kingfisher Ecolodge at approximately 8:30 AM, returning around 11:30 AM, or in the evening from 2:30 PM to 5:30 PM.
Meals
Breakfast, Dinner
Accommodation
Kingfisher Ecolodge – Deluxe Bungalow or similar
Services
Private vehicle with English-speaking guide
Local trekking guide from the village
Sightseeing: Phou Asa Mountain and archaeological site
Walking information
Phou Asa Mountain Trek: approx. 3.5 hours. Bring walking shs or sandals, long trousers (if available), hat, and sunscreen. The trek involves a moderate hike in forested areas, rocky paths, and gentle slopes. The forest path is also easy to walk, with only a few tree roots to step over.
Driving distance: approx. 70km (1.5 hours)
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Depart the lodge early with your guide.
Ban Kiet Ngong Wetlands Trek
Before dawn around 0430hrs, you will trek along the edge of the Ramsar-protected Ban Kiet Ngong Wetlands, one of the largest and least altered wetlands in the region. Hike through swamps, lakes and marshes at the foot of Phou Asa, a large rock outcrop renowned for its intriguing ruins and superb views of the dense semi-evergreen forests below.
Once you arrive at your hide, you will have the pleasure of enjoying the bird activity in the day’s early light when birds are most active. The Ban Kiet Ngong wetland is considered to be one of the most important areas in Indochina for water birds.
Here you find the rare Giant Ibis, the White-winged wood duck, the Sarus Crane, the Lesser Adjutant and the White-shouldered Ibis. With over 320 species of birds present on the wetlands it is certainly one of the best places in Laos to view such a wide variety of wetland-dwelling birds.
At Leisure
Return to the lodge and the rest of the day is free at leisure at the lodge or wander around the nearby village with your guide.
Meals
Picnic Breakfast
Accommodation
Kingfisher Ecolodge – Deluxe Bungalow or similar
Services
English-speaking guide
Activity: Wetlands Bird Watching Safari (suggested departure 0430hrs, allow 3-5 hours duration. Includes a 3km walk around the wetlands).
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The Si Phan Don
Today you continue your journey by road to Ban Nakasang pier where you will take a local boat to Don Khone and explore the surroundings of the 4000 islands. The Si Phan Don (meaning 4000 Islands) is a riverine archipelago located in the Mekong River, Champasak Province in southern Laos. Si Phan Don is characterised by numerous islands, half of which are submerged when the Mekong River is in flood.
Ban Khone
Here you begin retracing the French colonial–past at Ban Khone by bike or tuk-tuk, where some old colonial houses still stand and glimpse the first Lao railway with its own locomotive.
Liphi Waterfall
Continue your exploration of the area of the 4000 islands by boat and visit the beautiful Liphi waterfall, also known as the Samphamith, which forms a natural border between Lao and Cambodia. Enjoy the sunset by the immersive Mekong River.
Meals
Breakfast
Accommodation
Sala Done Khone Hotel – Ban Lao Room or similar
Services
Private vehicle with English-speaking guide
Long tail boat to Don Khone
Bicycle hire (no helmet) or TukTuk at Ban Khone
Sightseeing: Don Khone, Ban Khone (by bike or tuk-tuk), first Lao Railway, 4000 islands (by boat), Liphi Waterfall
Distance and Journey Time
4000 Islands and waterfall experience: approx. 8 hours
approx. 2hr drive 105km
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Khone Phapheng waterfall
After breakfast, you board a boat to Ban Nakasung and take a short drive to the Lao – Cambodia border, en route visit the breathtaking Khone Phapheng waterfall, Southeast Asia’s biggest waterfall, known as the ‘Niagara of the East’.
Lao – Cambodia Border Crossing
A short walk takes you across the Lao border into Cambodia (Vun Kham / Dom Kralor border crossing) and meets your Cambodian guide. You will need to carry your own luggage to Cambodian immigration. Visa on arrival is available at the Cambodian border for $ 30 USD. Immigration officials may request a small processing fee. You will need one passport photo.
Stueng Treng and Kratie
Travel from the border crossing to Stueng Treng province and on to Kratie (approx. 4hrs), a picturesque town on the banks of the Mekong. Until recently Kratie was a strategic trading port on the river between Phnom Penh and Stung Treng. Both the French and Khmer Rouge found the town useful and there are a number of French colonial buildings that remain.
Boat to Koh Trong
After a chance to buy essentials at the local market, board a local boat from Kratie waterfront to Koh Trong for your stay – approximately 280 families call this 6-kilometre island home. Almost totally removed from time and modernity, Koh Trong is a haven of peace and times gone by. Without roads, cars or modern facilities, the locals live a simple yet full life, within the beauty and serenity of this island. Its long stretching waters, almost peninsula-like, sit between the Mekong and create a truly ethereal feel.
Soriyabori Villas Resort
Depending on the season and the river height, you may need to walk up a stretch of beach and then board a Tuk Tuk, the only one of its kind, we will make the exciting journey to Soriyabori Villas Resort, a hotel hidden from view nestled into the countryside. Passing by locals, friendly and waving, you will see everyday life from the local shop in a wooden house, to the small school & town hall and past the many Pomelo trees which this island is famous for.
Cycle around the island
Later in the afternoon, go cycling or travel by horse and cart around the Island from Rajabouri Villas Hotel and visit the Pagoda and its interesting statues. See real local life and enjoy the dual aspect view of the Mekong. This island is very easy and safe to navigate alone or with your guide. Sample local snacks at leisure, in the little wooden house shops dotted along the paths.
Meals
Breakfast
Accommodation
Sala Done Khone Hotel – Ban Lao Room or similar
*Note there is no air conditioning at the resort – fan only
Services
Private vehicle with English-speaking guide
Border assistance
Local longtail boat to Koh Trong
Tuk Tuk (if available)
Bike hire (no helmet) or horse and cart. There will be an extra cost if you would like to do both.
Sightseeing: Ban Nakasang, Khone Phapheng Waterfall, Border Crossing, Kratie, Koh Trong, Soriyabori Villas Resort.
Distance and Journey Time
Laos to Cambodia Border Crossing: 100m walk (you will need to take your own luggage)
approx. 213 km (4 hours excluding immigration process)
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Boat to mainland
Awaken early and refreshed for an early breakfast, before you take a cart back to the ferry terminal and catch a local boat across the Mekong to the mainland. Continue with approx. 40-minute drive and a boat ride to the vast waters where you can find the rare Irrawaddy dolphins of the Mekong play and jump. There are thought to be around 60 dolphins located in this area, and your guide will help to suggest the best spot to witness these elegant mammals. A majestically quiet stretch of water, you may also glimpse rare birds and see the locals casting their fishing nets. You will see locals playing on the football pitch or selling their wares at the strategically placed market. You will be able to make a stop to view the goods and your guide will assist in the negation of any purchases.
Kratie
After disembarking, you will then journey around the small town of Kratie, a former colonial town with almost a seaside feel, with its long French-style promenade and colonial buildings. You will walk through the local market and small bar/ pub street area having lunch at leisure.
Kompong Cham
You are then transferred (approximately 3 hours) by private vehicle to your hotel located north of Kompong Cham, a peaceful town that was once an important trading hub and a visit here is now a great opportunity to experience life in small-town Cambodia.
The rest of the day is free at leisure.
Meals
Breakfast
Accommodation
Hanchey Bamboo Resort – Bungalow or similar
Services
Private vehicle with English-speaking guide
Boat to mainland
Distance and Journey Time
approx. 2.5 hr drive 100km
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Kampong Cham
This morning, drive to the centre of Kampong Cham where you will visit the twin ‘mountain temple’ of Phnom Pros and Phnom Srei.
Explore by bike
Afterwards, grab some local bikes (no helmets) to explore the rural island of Koh Paen, which is linked to Kompong Cham by an elaborate bamboo bridge, (it is passable only in the dry season – we take a ferry in the wet). The locals here make their living fishing, growing tobacco and sesame so it is a good place to go for a closer look at some of Cambodia’s cottage industries.
Transfer to Phnom Penh via Skuon
Later, drive approx. 3 hours to Phnom Penh capital city via Skuon (a small town famous for its tasty spiders), where it’s possible to sample an eight-legged snack. It is recommended that you eat these furry arachnids as you would a crab, by cracking the body open and pulling the legs off one by one – delicious!
Romdeng
For dinner, you will be eating for a cause at Romdeng. This restaurant is where former street children are taught the principles of hospitality. It is located in a restored colonial building with an atmospheric garden right in the city Centre.
Meals
Breakfast, Dinner
Accommodation
Aquarius Hotel & Urban Resort – Deluxe Room or similar
Services
Private vehicle with English-speaking guide
Sightseeing: Phnom Pros and Phnom Srei, Koh Paen, Phnom Penh Capital City, Skuon
Distance and Journey Time
approx. 3hr drive 140 km
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Home to about 1.5 million people, Phnom Penh, has been Cambodia’s capital since the French colonisation of the country. Located on the banks of the Tonle Sap and Mekong River, Phnom Penh was once known as the “Pearl of Asia”, one of the loveliest French-built cities in Indochina.
Phnom Penh City Tour
Spend a full day exploring this charming city which boasts a rich blend of Khmer and colonial architecture. In the morning, explore Wat Phnom and discover the legend of Lady Penh, the founder of the city, the Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda, two of the most striking buildings in the capital and considered some of the finest examples of Khmer architecture. Also visit the National Museum, designed in Khmer style by a French archaeologist and painter in 1917. The museum houses Khmer art and sculptures from different periods of Cambodian history. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant.
Tuol Sleng and Cheung Ek
In the afternoon, learn more about the turbulent Khmer Rouge years with visits to Tuol Sleng, a high school turned interrogation prison known as S-21 during the Khmer Rouge era and now a genocide museum; and Cheung Ek, a large memorial commemorating the 17,000 victims who died there under the reign of Khmer Rouge leader, Pol Pot, made famous by the movie “The Killing Fields”. Here you will see a pagoda made up of some 8,000 human skulls marking the site of one of Cambodia’s infamous Killing Fields. While sombre reminders of the cruelty of the Khmer Rouge regime, these visits will also provide an appreciation of the struggle that Cambodian people have faced and their tremendous courage to move on and rebuild their nation.
You may also like to take a stroll along the famous Sisowath Quay and enjoy a coffee or cocktail at one of the many cafes (at your own expense) while observing the bustling river traffic. Return to your hotel.
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation
Aquarius Hotel & Urban Resort – Deluxe Room or similar
Services
English-speaking guide
Sightseeing: Wat Phnom, Royal Palace, Silver Pagoda, National Museum, Tuol Sleng, Cheung Ek, Sisowath Quay (optional)
Note: Suggested departure time 0800hrs. Women should cover shoulders and both me and women should cover their knees. A respectful and humble demeanour is requested when visiting the Toul Sleng Genocide Museum and Killing Fields.
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Sambor Prei Kuk and transfer to Siem Reap
Travel by private vehicle to Siem Reap (approx. 6.5 hrs travel time plus stops). Along the way, you will make several stops to see some of rural Cambodia. Visit the peaceful temple site of Sambor Prei Kuk, built in the 6th and 7th centuries.
Siem Reap
You arrive in Siem Reap in the evening. Siem Reap is only a few kilometres from the largest religious site in the world – Angkor Wat. However, the town itself is well worth exploring. A visit to the old market is a must, even if you’re not looking for souvenirs; wandering through the stalls and surrounding shops, the silks, cotton, sarongs, silver and statues is a feast for the eyes and nose! There’s also a long tradition of shadow puppetry in the region, and if you’re lucky you might catch a show at one of the local restaurants in the evening, perhaps while you’re eating the speciality cuisine of Cambodia – amok, the name given to curry steam-cooked in banana leaves.
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation
Navutu Dreams Resort & Spa or similar
Services
Private vehicle with English-speaking guide
Sightseeing: Siem Reap, Sambor Prei Kuk
Distance and Journey Time
Approx. 6.5hr drive 320 km
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Angkor Wat
Wake up early and transfer by private vehicle to the West Gate of Angkor Wat from where the sunrise can be best observed. Enter the temple complex. Angkor Wat (early 12th century) is surrounded by a 190-metre-wide moat 1.5 kilometres by 1.3 kilometres and is claimed to be the largest religious building in the world. It is certainly one of the wonders of the ancient world. You will be amazed by the sheer size of the temple, which took 30 years to construct and used the labour of up to 300,000 workers. Angkor Wat was built as the earthly representation of the universe with its central tower symbolising Mt Meru which, Hindus believe, is at the centre of the universe.
Return to the West Gate where you can enjoy breakfast just outside of the Angkor complex at a local restaurant.
Banteay Kdei
Drive to visit Banteay Kdei built between the 12th and 13th centuries. The ruined condition of the temple in no way detracts from the grandeur of this walled temple. Banteay means fortified monastery and refers to the double wall surrounding it.
Ta Prohm
Continue to Ta Prohm, this beautiful temple, built in 1186 as a Buddhist temple dedicated to the mother of Jayavarman VII, is one of Angkor’s jewels and is overgrown with fig trees, giving a haunting yet exotic atmosphere. The magnificent roots of the trees have merged over the centuries with the temple’s huge stone blocks, creating a ‘forgotten city’ feeling.
Ta Keo
Pause at Ta Keo, which would have been the finest temple in Angkor had it been completed. A short distance further, are the twin temples of Chau Say Tevoda and Thommanon. Return to town for a rest and relaxation at your hotel mid-afternoon.
Angkor Thom
Drive to Angkor Thom, not a temple, but an entire walled city of 9 sq km which served as the ancient royal Capital of the Khmer Empire from approx. 1181. With a probable population of 1 million, it was far bigger and grander than any city in Europe at the time. Your guide will take you to the Terrace of the Elephants and the Terrace of the Leper King. The centrepiece of Jayavarman VII’s capital is the Bayon temple and, as you approach, you will notice the 216 giants, enigmatic, smiling faces looking in every direction.
Prasat Chrung Temple
Return to the South gate where you will board a small, private boat out to Prasat
Chrung Temple to watch the amazing sunset.
Meals
Breakfast
Accommodation
Navutu Dreams Resort – Explore Room or similar
Services
Private vehicle with English-speaking guide
Private boat ride to Prasat Chrung Temple
Sightseeing: Angkor Wat, Banteay Kdei, Ta Prohm, Ta Keo, Angkor Thom, Terrace of Elephants, Terrace of the Leper King
Distance and Journey Time
Full-day sightseeing 8 hours. Suggested departure 0445hrs
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Beng Mealea
After breakfast, you will transfer to the outskirts of town to visit one of the more remote jungle temples – Beng Mealea. Feel like an explorer when you discover the overgrown temple. Undiscovered for centuries, Beng Mealea has fairly recently been made accessible and remains largely unrestored. It is one of the very few temples that adventurers can climb through.
Roluos
Afterwards, travel back to see some other early examples of Cambodia’s historic temples – the Roluos Group. Roluos is the site of an ancient centre of Khmer civilisation known as Hariharalaya. It was the first town built by the Angkorian kings in the 8th and 9th centuries and consists of three main temples:
Bakong, Lolei and Preah Ko. The surrounding countryside with its rice paddy fields and sugar palm trees is very typically Cambodian.
Tonle Sap Lake and Kompong Pluk
From there, continue to the shores of the Tonle Sap Lake, where you will have the opportunity to learn about life on the lake. The Tonlé Sap is South East Asia’s largest freshwater lake with its size varying greatly depending on the season. Board a local boat and visit Kompong Pluk, a village where you will see houses on stilts that are submerged when Tonlé Sap Lake extends. On the way, you will pass floating houses and impressive flooded forests.
(NOTE: Due to low water levels during the dry season, the boat trip is only possible from approximately June to March. In the dry season it may be possible to arrange an overland visit to Kompong Pluk to walk among the stilted houses).
Malis Restaurant
Tonight at your final dinner, you will be experiencing Khmer cuisine from award-winning Master Chef Luu Meng at his restaurant Malis. The restaurant was born out of the desire to restore Cambodian cuisine to its former glory and put the country back on the culinary map after the terrible Khmer Rouge regime and civil war. Renowned for its fresh seasonal produce, delicate flavours and generous hospitality Luu Meng and his team are reviving long-forgotten countryside dishes.
Meals
Breakfast, Dinner
Accommodation
Navutu Dreams Resort – Explore Room or similar
Services
Private vehicle with English-speaking guide
Boat journey to Kompong Pluk
Sightseeing: Beng Mealea, Roluos Group, Tonle Sap Lake, Kompong Pluk
Distance and Journey Time:
Siem Rap – Bang Mealea: approx. 1-1.5hr drive 5 km
Bang Mealea – Kampong Phluk: approx. 1.5hr drive 59km
Kampong Phluk – Siem Reap: approx. 1hr drive 32km
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This morning, travel to Banteay Srei via backroads and villages. On the way, you will have the possibility to stop at local communities. Seize the opportunity to taste palm juice and palm sugar, which are popular local produce (seasonal).
Banteay Srei
Arrive at the ‘gem’ of the Angkor area, the pretty temple of Banteay Srei. The small and charming ‘Citadel of the Women’ remains one of the best-preserved temples in Cambodia. It displays some of the finest examples of classical Khmer art and is noted for its truly remarkable fine bas-reliefs. Banteay Srei is unique in that it is constructed of pink sandstone, which is seen nowhere else in Angkor.
Departure transfer
This afternoon transfer to the airport for your onward flight.
Meals
Breakfast
Services
Private vehicle and English-speaking guide
Sightseeing: Banteay Srei
Airport transfers
Distance and Journey Time
approx.1hr drive 35 km/way
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12. If we do not meet any of the expectations set out in paragraph 11, you have rights under the Australian Consumer Law.
13. Subject to the Australian Consumer Law, we are not liable for any technical errors, corruption of any data, unauthorised access to your personal data, inaccuracies in information supplied by you or third parties, or failure to complete bookings when that failure is due to circumstances beyond our control.
14. Subject to the application of consumer guarantees which may be implied into the supply of Booking & Advisory Services to you, we are not otherwise liable to you or anyone else for any loss or damage which is suffered directly or indirectly in connection with the:
a. the delivery or non-delivery of the Travel Product; or
b. any act or omission of Providers or other third parties.
15. Apart from the rights you have under the Trade Practices Act that cannot be lawfully excluded, we shall not be liable for any inconvenience, delay, loss, death, injury or damage to you or your belongings or otherwise caused directly or indirectly by the acts, omissions or default, whether negligent or otherwise, of third party suppliers, force majeure or any other event which is beyond our control.
16. Nothing in these terms and conditions is intended to exclude or restrict the application of consumer guarantees under consumer protection law.
Liability of the Provider
17. Once you have acquired Booking & Advisory Services from us, the Provider will provide you with the Travel Product on the terms and conditions agreed between you and the Provider. You should obtain and read the Provider's terms and conditions before acquiring Booking & Advisory Services from us.
18. The Provider is liable to you for a breach of obligations in providing you with the Travel Product.
19. As an agent of the Provider, we have no control over or liability for, the services provided by Providers. We cannot guarantee the performance of the Provider and we have no liability in respect of the supply of any Travel Products including any liability in contract, tort or otherwise, for any injury, damage, loss, delay, additional expense or inconvenience caused directly or indirectly by any provider of travel services or products by Providers. All bookings with us are subject to the terms and conditions and limitations of liability imposed by the Provider.
Booking Terms
20. The Travel Products offered are subject to availability and can be withdrawn without notice by the Provider. Travel Products may also change at any time in accordance with any Provider's terms and conditions.
21. When making a booking, you must provide details of each traveller correctly. We have no responsibility for any loss or damage arising from the incorrect entry of a traveller's details.
22. Travel Products obtained through the Booking & Advisory Services are not guaranteed until payment has been made in full and documents have been processed.
23. It is your responsibility to contact the Provider prior to departure to ensure there is no change to the scheduled departure time.
24. Most airlines offer only electronic confirmation of your reservation, or 'e-ticketing'. We cannot be held responsible if your e-ticket does not arrive due to an incorrect email address or your junk email settings. You must notify us immediately if you change your email address or contact telephone number after making a booking. It is your responsibility to advise us if you have not received your e-ticket confirmation.
25. When making a booking you must advise your consultant of any medical, dietary or mobility conditions you may have.
26. When making a booking you must advise us if you are pregnant.
Payment Terms
27. All pricing is reflected in Australian Dollars unless otherwise specified.
28. All pricing is inclusive of goods and services tax (GST), or other such value added taxes where applicable.
29. Payments processed in foreign currency (currency other than the original card holders country of issue), may incur a currency conversion fee. Please refer to your financial institution for applicable fees.
30. We sell Travel Products in two different ways:
a. as merchant, where we take payment directly from you at the time of booking confirmation; or
b. as retail, where your Travel Product will either be paid to the Provider directly at the time of booking or payable to the Provider on the date of travel.
31. Travel Products purchased in accordance with the 'retail' method, will not be bound by these terms and conditions and you are responsible for pursuing any claims of cancellation, re-scheduling, refunds or chargebacks directly with the merchant.
32. As the merchant we are governed by the terms and conditions of the Provider of the merchant facility.
33. A credit card or debit card fee may also be charged by certain Providers and low cost carriers. You will be notified of such charges prior to your purchase.
34. All charges, including the credit card fees, may be in another currency (e.g. EUR), which we will provide an estimate for in Australian dollars.
Refunds and Credits
35. If you cancel your Travel Product, your right to a refund or credit is subject to the terms and conditions of the Provider.
36. If the Provider is required to provide you with a refund or credit for the Travel Product, we will liaise with the Provider to arrange that refund. Where you are entitled to a refund, we are unable to provide you with this refund until we receive it from the Provider. Please note that most Providers take 60 – 90 days to process any refund.
37. Any refund or credit will be subject to these terms and conditions and will not include the Booking & Service Advisory fee, credit card fees or any commissions received. You may also be charged a cancellation fee by the Provider.
38. Where refunds for unused services are allowed, a service fee may be charged by the Provider against the value of the refund.
No Show
39. If you have a booking for a Travel Product (including flights and accommodation) but you do not show up to check-in or otherwise do not avail yourself of such Travel Product, you will not be entitled to any refund from us.
Cancellation and Amendments
40. If you amend or cancel your Travel Product, we reserve the right to charge the cancellation and amendment fees as per the Schedule of Professional Service Fees.
41. The Provider may charge cancellation and amendment fees in accordance with the terms and conditions agreed between you and the Provider. These will be in addition to the fees charged by us. We are not liable for any cancellation fees or refusals to refund made by the Provider.
42. Many Providers treat name changes and route and/or itinerary alterations as a full cancellation and these can incur full cancellation charges.
43. We will not charge a cancellation or amendment fee if you cancel or amend your booking due to a breach by us of our obligations to you or due to our fault.
Cancellations and Amendments for Online Low Cost Carrier Bookings Only
44. If your flight booking is with a low cost carrier, you can only cancel or change your booking by contacting the Provider directly.
Cancellations and amendments for hotel bookings only
Cancellations and Amendments for Hotel Bookings Only
45. Please review the cancellation policy for your hotel booking for any penalties that may apply.
Force Majeure
46. We will not be liable for any failure or delay in performing our obligations in booking the Travel Product that is due to events beyond our control.
47. If a force majeure event occurs that affects your booking, your entitlement to a refund, a credit or re-scheduled travel booking will depend on the Provider's terms and conditions.
48. If your booking is impacted by a force majeure event and you are entitled to a refund or credit from the Provider, we will facilitate this refund or credit.
49. The Booking & Service Advisory fee, credit card fees or any commissions received are non-refundable in the circumstance that a force majeure event occurs.
Low Cost Flights
50. If you book a low cost flight with us, we will make the booking on your behalf and your contract for your low cost flight will also be subject to the airline's booking terms and conditions.
51. It is your responsibility to ensure that all details of the booking are correct before proceeding. For any changes or cancellations, please contact the airline directly, quoting your reference.
Additional Airline Charges
52. Some Providers may also charge additional fees. Please check with the Provider for their full terms and conditions.
Hotel/Accommodation Bookings
53. Some Providers will require an additional charge to be paid locally (e.g. a resort fee) at the time of check in or check out. This amount is in addition to the amount shown during the booking process under the 'total booking cost' amount.
54. There may be taxes levied abroad but not paid at the point of purchase that are payable in relation to your hotel booking (e.g. local taxes, sales tax etc.). Any local taxes will be payable by you directly to the Provider at the time of check in/check out.
Changes in Price and Itineraries
55. We reserve the right to cancel your booking in the event we have reasonable grounds to believe it is fraudulent.
56. If a Provider changes any part of your booking for reasons beyond its control, we will use our reasonable endeavours to notify you. If any such changes result in your Travel Product costing more or otherwise being materially different, then you may cancel the Travel Product. Any refund would be subject to the Travel Provider terms and conditions.
57. These terms and conditions are subject to variation at any time. Any variation will be displayed here, and you will be deemed to have accepted a variation if you have made a booking after it has been displayed.
Your Obligations and Warranties
58. You warrant to us that:
a. you are at least 18 years old and have the power, capacity and authority to enter into a binding contract with us and with the Providers of the Travel Products that you acquire;
b. you have read and understood these terms and conditions and if booking on behalf of third parties, you have conveyed these terms and conditions to them;
c. the information you provide us about yourself is true, accurate, current and complete (apart from any optional items) as required by any registration process;
d. you have considered acquiring comprehensive travel insurance and we are not responsible for any failure by you to acquire adequate insurance cover; and
e. you will use the Booking & Advisory Services in accordance with these terms and conditions and you will not use the Booking & Advisory Services in any way to breach any laws or defame anyone.
Jurisdiction and Law
59. All matters arising out of or in connection with the Booking & Advisory Services and these terms and conditions are governed by the laws of Victoria, Australia. By acquiring the Booking & Advisory Services, you consent and submit to the exclusive jurisdiction of the laws of Victoria, Australia.
Definitions
" We" and "us" means Darebin Travel.
" You" or "your" means any user of our Website or any person who acquires the Booking & Advisory Services, including any person who acquires a Travel Product (whether or not the Booking & Advisory Services were acquired by another person).
" Booking & Advisory Services" means services provided by us to you in assisting you to acquire a Travel Product from a Provider and includes advisory and consulting services.
"Force Majeure” means, but not limited to: acts of God, accident, riot, war, terrorist act, epidemic, pandemic, quarantine, outbreaks of infectious disease or any other public health crisis, civil commotion, breakdown of communication facilities, natural catastrophes, adverse weather conditions, governmental acts or omissions, changes in laws or regulations, national strikes, fire, explosion and generalised lack of availability of raw materials or energy.
“ Travel Provider” or "Provider" or "Providers" means the company or person who provides you with the Travel Product on terms and conditions agreed with you.
" Travel Product" means the service or product provided by a Provider, for example, an airline or a hotel.
" Website" means our website https://deluxelife.com.au/
Schedule of Professional Service Fees
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Planning Fee |
$125 per itinerary. Creating unique travel itineraries is our specialty. For detailed quotations providing tailored recommendations for custom designed tours, a non-refundable planning fee applies. Should you proceed with booking, this fee is credited towards your trip.
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Service Fees |
$40 Domestic/Trans-Tasman airfare per person or as discounted
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$150.00 International airfare per person or as discounted
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$50.00 Domestic/Trans-Tasman business class airfare per person or as discounted
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$200.00 International business class airfare per person or as discounted |
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NIL Domestic/Trans-Tasman package, tour, or cruise per booking
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NIL International package, tour, or cruise per booking |
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$ Other Services dependent on service explained to you |
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$200 to $500 Itinerary planning per booking (credited towards reservation once booked) |
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Deposit & Balance |
For all bookings, the initial deposit is 20% and the balance of payment is due 60 days before departure. If Travel Provider terms and conditions vary, we may request an additional deposit from you, after the initial deposit is paid, plus the balance payment date may also vary. After you have paid your initial deposit, you will have five days cooling off period to accept these Booking & Advisory Terms and Conditions, during which time your deposit is refundable. After 5 days has passed, or you have accepted the Terms and Conditions, the deposit will automatically become non-refundable. Note, some Travel Products must be paid in full at time of booking. Service Fees must also be paid at time of booking and are non-refundable. After you pay the balance of payment this will become fully non-refundable 60 days before travel, or earlier, if specified by the supplier. |
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Amendment Fees |
Changes to Domestic/Trans-Tasman bookings will incur a fee of $50 per passenger per booking in addition to Provider and credit card fees.
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Changes to International bookings (excluding Trans-Tasman bookings) will incur a fee of $50 per passenger per booking in addition to Provider and credit card fees.
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Cancellation Fees |
Cancellations to Domestic/Trans-Tasman bookings will incur a fee of $75 per passenger per booking in addition to Provider and credit card fees.
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Cancellations to International bookings (excluding Trans-Tasman bookings) will incur a fee of $150 per passenger per booking in addition to Provider and credit card fees.
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Credit Card Fees |
Visa - an additional 2.0% applies
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Mastercard - an additional 2.0% applies
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American Express - an additional 2.0% applies
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(All fees exclude GST, where applicable).
Privacy Notice
Darebin Travel collects your personal information to enable us to respond to your queries and provide you with the Booking & Advisory Services, including assisting in arrangements with Providers (such as hotels and flights).
We will also use your personal information to personalise the service we provide you, including your experience on our, and other, websites, and to provide you with information about our, and our partners’, business, products and services. Your personal information may be shared between entities within Darebin Travel and with DeluxeLife Pty Ltd (ACN: 647 484 115), disclosed to suppliers, Providers, our cloud infrastructure, our contractors and to others where authorised or required by law. Some of these entities may be located overseas.
ANNEXURE – TRAVEL TIPS FOR TRAVEL PRODUCTS
These tips set out below are NOT legally binding terms and conditions.
Passports, Visas and Health Requirements
It is your responsibility to ensure that you have the required documents, including visas and passports, before travelling to a destination. For more information please log on to www.dfat.gov.au and www.smarttraveller.gov.au. Please check with the respective Embassy or Consulate of each country that you are travelling to, as many destinations require visas for both Australians and non-Australian passport holders. For more information, log on to www.visalink.com.au. You need to ensure that you have at least 6 months validity on your passport from the date of your departure return.
For International travellers booked on flights to the USA, including Hawaii, it is now mandatory, under the Visa Waiver Program to receive an electronic authorisation known as ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorisation) no less than 72 hours before travel to the USA. This can be obtained from the following website: https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov/esta/ .
For international travellers booked on flights to Canada, you either need a visitor visa or an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) to fly to, or transit through, a Canadian airport. An eTA can be obtained from the following website: https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/visit-canada/eta/apply.html
It is your responsibility to ensure that you are aware of any health requirements for your travel destinations. Vaccinations are strongly recommended for certain destinations. You need to contact your local doctor who will advise you of these requirements. Please note that vaccinations may be recommended before your travel departure date.
Travel Advice
We recommend that you contact the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) or visit their website at www.dfat.gov.au for general travel advice, as well as specific advice (including safety alert levels) relating to the destination you wish to visit.
Ticketing
For international and domestic departure, e-tickets will be issued upon payment and completion of the booking process. All other travel documentation, such as hotel booking confirmations, will be emailed to the email address you provided as an e-document. Should the Provider issue paper vouchers, these will be posted to the address you provided.
Baggage Allowance
Baggage allowance varies from airline to airline and in many cases the airfare you have paid may not include the cost to cover checked baggage. Please check with your Travel Advisor and/or the airline providing your flights for the allowances.
Frequent Flyers & Special Requests
For more information on whether your airfare is eligible for Frequent Flyer rewards, please contact the airline directly. When booking online, please ensure that you have entered your correct number. For bookings made by telephone via our Customer Service Team, please advise of your Frequent Flyer details and these will be added to your reservation. We do not take any responsibility should an airline not register your trip. You should retain copies of your air ticket and boarding pass.
Special requests will be passed on to the Providers but cannot be guaranteed.