eratour02-blog

[eratour02-blog]

How Safe Is Vietnam

Vietnam is considered as among the safest countries to visit, however, like anywhere else there are  instances of theft: snatch thieves and pickpockets on motorcycles are the worst. So be vigilant all the time. You shouldn’t bring with you valuables such as expensive watches, jewelries, etc

  Who is my guide?

  We offer a strong, professional and multilingual guide team nationwide. The guides are carefully selected for their experience, rich knowledge, excellent language and communication skills, commitment, professionalism, and personalities. They are not just purely guides but also your dedicated friends, trusted companions during and after the trip. Travelling with ERA tour definitely offers you awesome opportunities to have wonderful new friends.

  Are there any hidden costs, which are not mentioned? Any tipping required?

  Under the booking page, all information related to your tour package is provided, all inclusions and exclusions are mentioned at our booking confirmation sent to you. Tipping is not compulsory. If you are satisfied with service of our guides, drivers.., a small gesture is an appropriate way to show your appreciation to them.

  How do I pay for the trip?

  In order to book any tour, choose your preferred tour and click on “Book This Tour”. As our policy, if the booking value (in total of all guests in your party) is less than 500USD, you need to sign the booking voucher sent by us as your confirmation for the reservation, the balance of total package will be paid upon your arrival ahead of your departure date. In case, the booking value exceeds 500USD, a deposit ranging from 20-40% is required depending on the time the booking is confirmed ahead of your departure. For any cases, the balance of the tour package must be fully paid ahead of your departure.

  How can I book a tour?

  In order to book any tour, you just need to select your preferred tour(s), all tour-related information is available and sufficient by different tabs, and then click “Book this tour” on our website. News Travel booking form template will automatically call trip tour name, you will be asked to fill in the existing fields. Once the form has been filled up, please click “Submit” to send you tour inquiry to News Travel  for your inputs to be processed. You may also “Reset” to cancel information you have just filled up. After your booking request has been received, all necessary arrangements will be made in accordance with your inquiry. Normally, we will respond you within 1-2 business days. Confirmation message will be sent to you by email with all required details including payment terms& conditions.

  Can I have a tailor-made tour?

  We are offering about one hundred tours samples, however, in case none of them match your inquiry, please click on the tab tailor-made tour, fill up all requested information so We can catch up what your plan is. Our expert will process and create a trip matching your request with useful information.

  For more details on our products and services, please feel free to visit us at cambodia and vietnam tours packages, vietnam group tour packages, indochina travel company, best travel agency, vietnam travel luxury

[eratour02-blog]

Cambodia Adventure Holidays Part - III

Cambodia is a country in Southeast Asia that borders the Gulf of Thailand. Neighboring countries include Laos, Thailand, and Vietnam. The geography of Cambodia is mountainous in the southwest and north and is dominated by the Mekong River and Tonle Sap Lake.  The temples of Angkor are Cambodia most attractions to a large number of tourists but they're just the beginning of the story. Phnompenh and Royal Palaces are worth for visiting for sure. And there is a long list followed by Sihanoukville's beaches and islands are paradise found,  Bokor National Park and the wild Cardamom Mountain, Elephant treks in Mondulkiri and Ratanakiri's crater lakes await in the mountainous northeast, home to hill tribes, Endangered Irrawaddy dolphins get cameras clicking in Kratie, a five-hour boat ride down the Mekong River from Phnom Penh....Let's broaden your knowledge to the diverse and lively culture of Cambodia.

Cambodia bordered by Thailand to the northwest, Laos to the northeast, Vietnam to the east, and the Gulf of Thailand to the southwest. Known as a country of great Angkor Temples in Siem Reap, the beaufitul beach in Shihanouk villes and a sad history relics in Phnom Penh.. Killing field

  Myanmar Adventure Holidays

  Myanmar (formerly Burma) is a Southeast Asian nation of more than 100 ethnic groups, bordering India, Bangladesh, China, Laos and Thailand. Yangon (formerly Rangoon), the country's largest city, is home to bustling markets, numerous parks and lakes, and the towering, gilded Shwedagon Pagoda, which contains Buddhist relics and dates to the 6th century.

  Laos Adventure Holidays

  Laos is fast becoming the darling of South-east Asia, satisfying all the romantic images of perfumed frangipani trees, saffron-robed monks, rusty old bicycles and golden temples, all set amongst a rich tapestry of tropical river islands, ethnic minority villages, cascading waterfalls and vivid, green rice paddies, and bound together by the mighty Mekong River, the country’s lifeline.Often overlooked in favour of its better-known neighbours as Vietnam, Cambodia, Thailand, Laos remains one of Southeast Asia’s most beguiling destinations. Caught in the middle of the two Indochina wars and long isolated from the rest of the world, the country retains a slow, rather old-fashioned charm, and its people – incredibly laidback and friendly, even by Asian standards – are undoubtedly one of the highlights of any visit.

  Laos, officially known as the Lao People's Democratic Republic (Lao PDR), is one of the poorest nations in Southeast Asia. A mountainous and landlocked country, Laos shares borders with Vietnam to the east, Cambodia to the south, Thailand to the west, and Myanmar and China to the north.

  For more details on our products and services, please feel free to visit us at vietnam travel agency, vietnam holiday tours, indochina cheap tours, vietnam adventure tours, best tour operators in vietnam

[eratour02-blog]

Laos Adventure Holidays Part - I

Laos is fast becoming the darling of South-east Asia, satisfying all the romantic images of perfumed frangipani trees, saffron-robed monks, rusty old bicycles and golden temples, all set amongst a rich tapestry of tropical river islands, ethnic minority villages, cascading waterfalls and vivid, green rice paddies, and bound together by the mighty Mekong River, the country’s lifeline.Often overlooked in favour of its better-known neighbours as Vietnam, Cambodia, Thailand, Laos remains one of Southeast Asia’s most beguiling destinations. Caught in the middle of the two Indochina wars and long isolated from the rest of the world, the country retains a slow, rather old-fashioned charm, and its people – incredibly laidback and friendly, even by Asian standards – are undoubtedly one of the highlights of any visit.

  Laos, officially known as the Lao People's Democratic Republic (Lao PDR), is one of the poorest nations in Southeast Asia. A mountainous and landlocked country, Laos shares borders with Vietnam to the east, Cambodia to the south, Thailand to the west, and Myanmar and China to the north.

  Vietnam Adventure Holidays

  Vietnam is a beautiful country which is well known for natural beauty, long history and multiple cultures. Therefore, it is easy to understand the reason why the number of tourists landing in Vietnam is increasing to a greater extent. People who are wishing to visit a country famous for both cultural and natural beauty can prioritize Vietnam without any constraint.  Even though there are thousands of places to visit, here are some highly recommended tourist spots which should not be missed once after landing in the Vietnam land: The 1000 year old capital Hanoi, breathtaking Halong Bay, peaceful Hoi An town, bustling and modern Ho Chi Minh City and countless of white sand beaches along the country from the North to the South. Each minute of you in Vietnam will be surrounded by friendly people who are eager to introduce you the unique culture or authentic cuisine of Vietnam which are now popular all over the world. Vietnam is now awaiting for your footprints to explore..

  Our Vietnam tours offer a wide range of places to go and things to do across the whole country. From north to south, Vietnam offers scenic Halong Bay, vibrant city tempo in Hanoi, unparalleled leisure in Hoi An, imperial Hue, colonial Ho Chi Minh City and vivid Mekong Delta. From the intoxicating history and culture, stunning natural beauty, enjoyable beach holiday to an interesting fisherman experience, this hottest destination in Southeast Asia just has something for everyone.

  For more details on our products and services, please feel free to visit us at cambodia and vietnam tours packages, indochina travel company, best travel agency, vietnam holiday tours, vietnam group tour packages

[eratour02-blog]

Cambodia Adventure Holidays Part - II

Cambodia is a country in Southeast Asia that borders the Gulf of Thailand. Neighboring countries include Laos, Thailand, and Vietnam. The geography of Cambodia is mountainous in the southwest and north and is dominated by the Mekong River and Tonle Sap Lake.  The temples of Angkor are Cambodia most attractions to a large number of tourists but they're just the beginning of the story. Phnompenh and Royal Palaces are worth for visiting for sure. And there is a long list followed by Sihanoukville's beaches and islands are paradise found,  Bokor National Park and the wild Cardamom Mountain, Elephant treks in Mondulkiri and Ratanakiri's crater lakes await in the mountainous northeast, home to hill tribes, Endangered Irrawaddy dolphins get cameras clicking in Kratie, a five-hour boat ride down the Mekong River from Phnom Penh....Let's broaden your knowledge to the diverse and lively culture of Cambodia.

Cambodia bordered by Thailand to the northwest, Laos to the northeast, Vietnam to the east, and the Gulf of Thailand to the southwest. Known as a country of great Angkor Temples in Siem Reap, the beaufitul beach in Shihanouk villes and a sad history relics in Phnom Penh.. Killing field

  Myanmar Adventure Holidays

  Myanmar (formerly Burma) is a Southeast Asian nation of more than 100 ethnic groups, bordering India, Bangladesh, China, Laos and Thailand. Yangon (formerly Rangoon), the country's largest city, is home to bustling markets, numerous parks and lakes, and the towering, gilded Shwedagon Pagoda, which contains Buddhist relics and dates to the 6th century.

  Welcome to the wonderful and legendary land of Vietnam and Indochina. Visitors to this magical area are sure to have a wondrous time while enjoying sites, sounds and experiences of Vietnam and Indochina. ERA Tour ensures that full satisfaction is coupled with providing excellent value for money for all its customers indeed this is the working...

  Visitors to this magical area are sure to have a wondrous time while enjoying sites, sounds and experiences of Vietnam and Indochina. ERA Tour ensures that full satisfaction is coupled with providing excellent value for money for all its customers indeed this is the working motto of our company.

The emphasis at eratours is on high quality. So come and join with us to make your holiday in Vietnam a special time with many special memories.

  ERA (Explore Real Asia) provides a full Destination Management Service supported by a team of committed travel professionals not only in Vietnam but also Laos, Cambodia, Thailand...

  For more details on our products and services, please feel free to visit us at vietnam travel agency, vietnam adventure tours, indochina cheap tours,  vietnam holiday tours, best tour operators in vietnam

[eratour02-blog]

Cambodia Adventure Holidays Part - I

Cambodia is a country in Southeast Asia that borders the Gulf of Thailand. Neighboring countries include Laos, Thailand, and Vietnam. The geography of Cambodia is mountainous in the southwest and north and is dominated by the Mekong River and Tonle Sap Lake.  The temples of Angkor are Cambodia most attractions to a large number of tourists but they're just the beginning of the story. Phnompenh and Royal Palaces are worth for visiting for sure. And there is a long list followed by Sihanoukville's beaches and islands are paradise found,  Bokor National Park and the wild Cardamom Mountain, Elephant treks in Mondulkiri and Ratanakiri's crater lakes await in the mountainous northeast, home to hill tribes, Endangered Irrawaddy dolphins get cameras clicking in Kratie, a five-hour boat ride down the Mekong River from Phnom Penh....Let's broaden your knowledge to the diverse and lively culture of Cambodia.

Cambodia bordered by Thailand to the northwest, Laos to the northeast, Vietnam to the east, and the Gulf of Thailand to the southwest. Known as a country of great Angkor Temples in Siem Reap, the beaufitul beach in Shihanouk villes and a sad history relics in Phnom Penh.. Killing field

Myanmar Adventure Holidays

  Myanmar (formerly Burma) is a Southeast Asian nation of more than 100 ethnic groups, bordering India, Bangladesh, China, Laos and Thailand. Yangon (formerly Rangoon), the country's largest city, is home to bustling markets, numerous parks and lakes, and the towering, gilded Shwedagon Pagoda, which contains Buddhist relics and dates to the 6th century.

  Laos Adventure Holidays

  Laos is fast becoming the darling of South-east Asia, satisfying all the romantic images of perfumed frangipani trees, saffron-robed monks, rusty old bicycles and golden temples, all set amongst a rich tapestry of tropical river islands, ethnic minority villages, cascading waterfalls and vivid, green rice paddies, and bound together by the mighty Mekong River, the country’s lifeline.Often overlooked in favour of its better-known neighbours as Vietnam, Cambodia, Thailand, Laos remains one of Southeast Asia’s most beguiling destinations. Caught in the middle of the two Indochina wars and long isolated from the rest of the world, the country retains a slow, rather old-fashioned charm, and its people – incredibly laidback and friendly, even by Asian standards – are undoubtedly one of the highlights of any visit.

  Laos, officially known as the Lao People's Democratic Republic (Lao PDR), is one of the poorest nations in Southeast Asia. A mountainous and landlocked country, Laos shares borders with Vietnam to the east, Cambodia to the south, Thailand to the west, and Myanmar and China to the north.

  For more details on our products and services, please feel free to visit us at vietnam travel luxury, indochina travel company, Vietnam DMC, best tour operators in vietnam, best travel agency

[eratour02-blog]

Vietnam Adventure Holidays Part - III

Vietnam is a beautiful country which is well known for natural beauty, long history and multiple cultures. Therefore, it is easy to understand the reason why the number of tourists landing in Vietnam is increasing to a greater extent. People who are wishing to visit a country famous for both cultural and natural beauty can prioritize Vietnam without any constraint.  Even though there are thousands of places to visit, here are some highly recommended tourist spots which should not be missed once after landing in the Vietnam land: The 1000 year old capital Hanoi, breathtaking Halong Bay, peaceful Hoi An town, bustling and modern Ho Chi Minh City and countless of white sand beaches along the country from the North to the South. Each minute of you in Vietnam will be surrounded by friendly people who are eager to introduce you the unique culture or authentic cuisine of Vietnam which are now popular all over the world. Vietnam is now awaiting for your footprints to explore..

  Our Vietnam tours offer a wide range of places to go and things to do across the whole country. From north to south, Vietnam offers scenic Halong Bay, vibrant city tempo in Hanoi, unparalleled leisure in Hoi An, imperial Hue, colonial Ho Chi Minh City and vivid Mekong Delta. From the intoxicating history and culture, stunning natural beauty, enjoyable beach holiday to an interesting fisherman experience, this hottest destination in Southeast Asia just has something for everyone.

  Hotels in Vietnam

  With everything from superb cuisine to stun¬ning landscapes, this corner of Southeast Asia dazzles the senses. Peaceful paddy fields give way to frenetic urban centers like Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi, where the youthful population rushes to embrace the future. Boutiques fill the French colonial buildings in enchanting Hoi An; in the north, a world away, are Sapa’s ethnic markets. Around Vietnam, lush jungles and jag¬ged karst peaks beckon adventurers. Absorb it all but take time to relax, perhaps on the long, alluring coastline with its world-class beaches.

  ABOUT US

  Welcome to the wonderful and legendary land of Vietnam and Indochina.

  Visitors to this magical area are sure to have a wondrous time while enjoying sites, sounds and experiences of Vietnam and Indochina. ERA Tour ensures that full satisfaction is coupled with providing excellent value for money for all its customers indeed this is the working motto of our company.

The emphasis at eratours is on high quality. So come and join with us to make your holiday in Vietnam a special time with many special memories.

  ERA (Explore Real Asia) provides a full Destination Management Service supported by a team of committed travel professionals not only in Vietnam but also Laos, Cambodia, Thailand...

  For more details on our products and services, please feel free to visit us at cambodia and vietnam tours packages, vietnam travel agency, vietnam adventure tours, indochina cheap tours, vietnam group tour packages

[eratour02-blog]

Discovery The Unique Culture Of The Red Dao In Sapa, Vietnam

Ta Phin in Sapa is a Red Dao hill tribe village near the Chinese Vietnam boarder. Just a short 3 hour hike from the former French colonial town of Sapa, Ta Phin has become a popular tourist destination for it’s epic landscapes and ethnic minority encounters. It is impossible to walk by the village without seeing an abundance of scarlet clad sewers eagerly stitching their souvenirs to sell to passersby.

  Tamay, 45, and mother of 3 is one of the many ethnic minority women employed at Ethos Spirit of Community for her traditional textile expertise and local knowledge. The spectacular sunny morning of our day together came after a bitterly cold 3 day snow down with shocking sub zero temperatures. After buying food for lunch from the local market we motorbiked from Sapa down to Ta Phin village before dismounting for a short 30 minute hike up the hills towards Tamay’s home.

  Tamay’s house was a simple structure perched on the precipice of the hill over looking the valley and neighboring Red Dao families below. It was made from wooden planks with a huge open plan interior that had a wood stove fire in the middle of the room for cooking. There were out houses providing shelter for small livestock, vegetable and fruit plantations, an outdoor toilet and herbal bath. We decide the best place to enjoy the embroidery lesson would be outside soaking up the much welcomed sun.

  Embroidery skills are extremely important in ethnic minority life. No Red Dao women is seen as fit to marry or even desirable until she has sewn her own clothes. Tamay started learning from her mother at the age of 7 and is now considered one of the most accomplished and respected artisans in her community. Designs representing village life and animist mysticism such as stars, trees, rice terraces and family are meticulously stitched in silk with pin point precision. Every new year it is the wife’s duty to make a new set of clothes for her husband and children in time for Tet holiday at the end of January. Each Red Dao traditional dress includes a intensely embroidered knee length jacket, trousers, belt, necklace and head dress, consuming all their free time after chores for the whole year round.

  Don’t even know how to explain how complicated and time consuming Red Dao embroidery is. The process starts by dividing the silk threads into 3s and twisting them together between the skin on your knee and the palm of your hand. Each stitch is sewn in and out of the tightly woven warp and weft threads in a black cotton fabric. Tamay and her peers must have the eye sight of an eagle as not a single stitch is in the wrong place. Ever. The symbolic motifs and patterns are sewn from the reverse side of the fabric and the sequence of the stitches used to create the design is recalled from memory. It is not simply cross stitch. It took over 3 hours for me to sew that one tree. I can’t even begin to contemplate the patience and perseverance required to sew your clothes this way little by little every day.

  Textile Tours

  It’s one thing to look and admire a piece of textiles for sale in a shop or from a street vendor but it’s another to spend a day with the person that made the product to practice their craftsmanship for yourself. I always appreciated the Red Dao’s exceptional embroidery skills but now I know how long it takes and how undervalued their products and time are sold for. I strongly recommend this textile tour with Tamay for anyone interested in traditional dress and culture in order to gain perspective and truly understand this unique ethnic art form. To book your day with Tamay contact Ethos Spirit of Community direct.

  For more details on our products and services, please feel free to visit us at vietnam travel agency, indochina cheap tours, vietnam group tour packages, best tour operators in vietnam, best travel agency

[eratour02-blog]

Important Safety Tips for Women Traveling in Vietnam

Vietnam is a country that tourism is blossoming and the established backpacker trail of Southeast Asia is now drawing more affluent visitors and solo travelers. One of the most attractive features of Vietnam as a destination is that although it is a relatively inexpensive country to explore, it is also one of the safest destinations in Southeast Asia.

  However, there are certain factors to consider when looking at your safety if you are a woman traveling in Vietnam, and taking a few precautions can certainly help to ensure your safety.

  Women and Clothing

  When it comes to the attitudes of the Vietnamese towards women traveling solo, one aspect worth considering is that Vietnam is still quite a conservative country.

  Many women have reported that Vietnamese men will ask them curiously about why they are traveling solo, and why they aren’t married. For this reason, some women choose to wear a dummy wedding ring as a decoy to avoid such questions being asked.

  Clothing can also affect the way that men act towards women in Vietnam. The best option is to follow the style of the local women and to cover up when you are heading into the town or city center.

Some women who do go out wearing skimpy tops and skirts have reported some examples of being propositioned, although there are very few serious crimes that do take place in the country.

  One of the most common issues that people find in Vietnam is that petty crime such as pickpocketing and theft of items such as cameras, laptops and rucksacks can happen. Good common sense can help to reduce the chances of this happening, and trying to avoid making yourself a target is very wise advice.

Keep any valuables hidden in a bag which you keep close to yourself at all times, and particularly avoid carrying a camera or sunglasses on a strap around your neck in populated areas.

  One method of theft is from the back of a motorbike, so makes sure you keep a hand on any bags, as these can easily be grabbed from a moving bike.

  Although Vietnam is a country that has opened up significantly over recent years, like many countries, there is still a security presence around many military and transport hubs.

  Try to avoid taking photographs in areas where police or military individuals are present and be aware that, in some cases, they may ask you to delete photos or even ask you to hand over your memory card. Be respectful and use your best judgment when taking photos.

  For more details on our products and services, please feel free to visit us at cambodia and vietnam tours packages, vietnam travel agency, indochina tours, vietnam adventure tours, indochina cheap tours

[eratour02-blog]

Journey Beyond The Lake Part - I

It’s well worth taking a day or two to travel beyond Inle’s most easily accessible sights, or to visit one of the region’s villages on market day.

  Taunggyi, about an hour from Nyaungshwe by pick-up truck, is the administrative capital of Shan State, with a number of historic churches and Burmese-style mosques, and a night market selling cheap-and-cheerful local treats.

  Taunggyi is also one of the locations for a rustic market that rotates among about a dozen towns in the Inle Lake region. The market happens every five days (except when there’s a full moon), drawing minorities down from the hills to trade livestock and produce. Other market towns include Maing Thauk, near Nyaungshwe; Thaung Thut, at the southern end of the lake; Pindaya, home of the Shwe Oo Min Natural Cave Pagoda; and Inthein, where the market is popular for its sheer size and photogenic setting. Hotels and guesthouses can advise you where the market will be heading next.

  Further afield (and also on the market circuit), about three hours by pick-up from the lake, is Kalaw, a former hill station surrounded by Buddhist pagodas, hilltop viewpoints and the peaceful villages of the Palaung, Danu, Pa-O, Taung Yo and Danaw peoples. Set in a gorgeous landscape of forest-capped hills, Kalaw is a top trekking destination, and the starting point for two- to four-day hikes all the way to Inle. Many restaurants in Kalaw serve food with distinctive Nepali and Indian flavours, thanks to the labourers who came to build the railroad during British rule.

  Take A Boat Trip

  Myanmar’s Water World — Exploring Inle Lake

  In the unique watery world of Inle Lake, Intha fisherman row canoes with one leg, gardens float, and wooden homes perch above the water on rickety stilts. Take some time to explore one of Myanmar’s most iconic destinations with an early-morning cruise, a cycle through the countryside, or sojourns into the surrounding hills and villages.

  Take a boat trip

Getting out onto the water is naturally the most popular way to experience Inle Lake. Every morning a flotilla of slender wooden canoes fitted with long-tailed outboard motors surges forth, transporting visitors to various natural, cultural, religious and historic sites. Nyaungshwe, on the northern edge of the lake, is the base for setting out on motorboat trips — every hotel and guesthouse in town can help arrange one, or just wait for a boat captain to approach you in the street.

  Trips can be tailored, but tours typically include visits to the famous sights in the northern part of the lake, such as Phaung Daw Oo Paya in Tha Ley, the Nga Hpe Kyaung (Jumping Cat Monastery) in Nga Phe village, and the floating gardens. Make sure to spend time observing the Intha fishermen (most photogenic at dawn) and their unique technique of rowing the boat with one leg while using both hands to fish. Other destinations further afield include villages Thaung Thut, Hmaw Be, and Samkar, and you can also include a visit to Inthein, where crumbing, hilltop pagodas look down on the water.

A standard day trip costs K15,000 to K18,000 (US$12 to US$15); or K20,000 with Inthein. The fee covers the entire boat; drivers will carry up to five passengers, who get padded seats and life jackets. Many trips start at dawn, when the light is great for photos. During the day it gets very hot: bring a hat, water and plenty of sunscreen. Sunset trips are also popular, although note it can get chilly on the lake. Most boats provide blankets but you may want a jacket or a wrap.

  DIY cycling tour

Inle is not only about the water. It’s also possible to explore the perimeter by bicycle and take in some beautiful Burmese countryside. Many sights are clustered around the lake, including hot springs and small villages.

  Begin in Nyaungshwe, where bikes can be hired for around K1500 (US$1.50) per day. Peddle west along an unpaved, bumpy road through farmland. Take a left at the T-junction and head south, following the mountains. After about 8km you will reach the Khaung Daing hot springs, where the water is piped into a series of swimming pools. A soak here costs adults US$7, or US$10 for a dip in a private pool.

  Continue pedalling south until you reach Khaung Daing, an Intha village producing Shan State’s famous tofu. Shan tofu is made with split yellow pea flour, mixed with boiling and then poured into a mould to set. Thin tofu wafers are set out to dry, and you can enjoy a tofu thoke(tofu salad) for a few hundred kyat.

  After lunch, hire a boat for K8000 (US$6.50) to ferry you and your bike across the lake. You’ll be deposited on the eastern side, where you can continue cycling north through sugar cane plantations and small villages.

As you near the north side of the lake you will see Red Mountain Estate winery to the east. Head up the hill for a magnificent view of Inle and the vineyards (you can also taste the wine for K3000). Continue around the north side of the lake, and head into Nyaungshwe before sunset as the roads are not lit.

For more details on our products and services, please feel free to visit us at  vietnam adventure tours, indochina cheap tours, vietnam group tour packages, vietnam travel luxury, indochina travel company

[eratour02-blog]

Want more Part - I

If you’re a war and history buff and you have more time in your itinerary, add on a visit to Phonsavan (from Vang Vieng) and wonder at the mysterious ancient burial ground known as the Plain of Jars. On arriving in Phonsavan, make for the UXO Information Centre to learn about Laos’ continuing struggle with unexploded bombs from the Vietnam War. Organise a tour for the next day taking in all three main Plain of Jars sites (the final two have more picturesque settings; the first is the largest).

  Note that the area still has unexploded bombs, so take care when walking to stay within designated areas — only the three main Plain of Jars sites are considered reasonably free of UXOs.

  Day one — Vientiane

Seven days in Laos

  Puttering down jungle rivers, scaling mist-laced mountain roads, ziplining across treetops, and sitting roadside with a steaming bowl of noodles: it’s all possible in one week in Laos without losing that special sense of calm the country brings.

With seven days, a few bus rides and some well-timed cafe stops, you can take in the country’s relaxed capital of Vientiane, outdoor-activities haven Vang Vieng, and stunning World Heritage city Luang Prabang.

Day one — Vientiane

  In the nation’s friendly capital of Vientiane, visit Laos’ most important national monument, Pha That Luang (Golden Stupa) and take in the surrounding temples. As the temperature rises, head closer into town to scope out the beautiful temples of the inner city, such as Wat Si Saket, with some cafe stops in between. At sunset, join the rest of Vientiane’s city folk and take a stroll along the Mekong. Come evening the old quarter beckons, with its range of tasteful restaurants at affordable prices.

  Day two: Vientiane

Get right under the skin of Vientiane with Tuk Tuk Safari, a brilliant tour outfit with a community spirit that takes you by tuk-tuk to the realcity. In the company of a friendly local, you’ll witness a silversmith at work, go behind the scenes at a restaurant that helps street kids, and see the inspiring COPE centre, which supports victims of unexploded ordnance.

  Where to eat in Vientiane: JoMa Bakery Café, Le Banneton, Lao Kitchen, Makphet Restaurant, street vendors for baguettes and fruit shakes

  Day three: Vang Vieng

Perched on the pretty Nam Song (Song River) and backed by soaring jagged karsts, the former party town of Vang Vieng is one of the most stunning places in Laos. It’s popular for kayaking, caving and climbing — and, of course, relaxing. Watch the sun turn to burnt peach behind the cliffs from the bar Earth with one of their flavoursome cocktails in hand.

Karst mountains along the Nam Song, Vang Vieng

Day four: Vang Vieng

Enjoy the peaceful Nam Song on an inflated inner tube. Long a rite of passage for foreign tourists in Laos, this is a blissful couple of hours floating downriver passing jungle, cliffs and rice fields. Head out early to save the second half of the day for another activity, and if you’re here in October just after the rainy season, be aware the river flows fast so stay alert. Come the afternoon, try the more recent craze of ziplining, involving being harnessed to a cable and whizzing through the canopy over river, valley and jungle. A host of companies organise this but you could start with Green Discovery.

  Where to eat in Vang Vieng: Pizza Luka, Le Café De Paris

Day five: Luang Prabang

Grab an early bus to the jaw-dropping World Heritage city of Luang Prabang, which enjoyed its 20th year of protection under Unesco in 2015. Unparalleled scenery will keep you occupied as you travel along mountainous roads that reveal picturesque hilltop villages perched on the edge of abysmal drops, while children play at the roadside beside powder-blue Hmong houses. On your arrival in Luang Prabang, head straight to the peninsula to see some of its 33 wats (temples), wander the riverside, stop at cafes, and marvel as the sun sets over the mellow Mekong. In the evening, enjoy a stroll through the Handicraft Night Market, where Laos specialities, such as handmade quilt covers and silk, can be picked up for a steal.

Night market, Luang Prabang

Day six: Luang Prabang

Take a dawn yoga class with Luang Prabang Yoga before breakfast at Le Banneton for the best croissants in the city. Then head off by tuk-tuk to Tat Kuang Si, Laos’ most spectacular waterfall. Take a dip in cool menthol-green pools set amongst verdant jungle at the base of the cascade. On your way in, don’t miss the Kuang Si Bear Rescue Centre, a sanctuary for Asiatic Moon bears that have been rescued from the illegal pet trade. In the evening, head to the river and watch the sun go down with a Beerlao in hand.

  Day seven: Luang Prabang

Get up at dawn for the monk’s procession (Tak Bat), keeping a respectful distance between you and the monks, then check out the creepy-crawlies on parade at the local produce market. Take your time to explore the many exquisite and famed temples of the city; when you’re templed out, hop on a ferry and cross the Mekong to visit the village of Ban Xieng Maen, but make it back in time to catch the sun setting over Luang Prabang from hilltop Phu Si. In the evening, take yourself off to the intimate Garavek theatre for a traditional hour of storytelling and Lao mythology accompanied by music, before finishing the night with a cocktail at bohemian Icon Klub.

  Where to eat in Luang Prabang: Tamarind, Tangor, Chez Marius, Le Banneton, the night market for scrumptious barbecue fish and other local dishes

  For more details on our products and services, please feel free to visit us at cambodia and vietnam tours packages, vietnam travel agency, indochina tours, vietnam holiday tours, vietnam e visa

[eratour02-blog]

Myanmar Adventure Holidays

Myanmar (formerly Burma) is a Southeast Asian nation of more than 100 ethnic groups, bordering India, Bangladesh, China, Laos and Thailand. Yangon (formerly Rangoon), the country’s largest city, is home to bustling markets, numerous parks and lakes, and the towering, gilded Shwedagon Pagoda, which contains Buddhist relics and dates to the 6th century.

Welcome To The Wonderful And Legendary Land Of Vietnam And Indochina

Visitors to this magical area are sure to have a wondrous time while enjoying sites, sounds and experiences of Vietnam and Indochina. ERA Tour ensures that full satisfaction is coupled with providing excellent value for money for all its customers indeed this is the working motto of our company.

The emphasis at eratours is on high quality. So come and join with us to make your holiday in Vietnam a special time with many special memories.

ERA (Explore Real Asia) provides a full Destination Management Service supported by a team of committed travel professionals not only in Vietnam but also Laos, Cambodia, Thailand…

We are travel specialists with:

• A proven reliable team, with years of experience, gathering all the necessary skills to satisfy your needs • A motivated team: the best, but always striving to do better for you • A passionate team: your happiness is our guiding passion • A team with a central objective: The Client’s Complete Satisfaction!

Vietnam Adventure Holidays

Vietnam is a beautiful country which is well known for natural beauty, long history and multiple cultures. Therefore, it is easy to understand the reason why the number of tourists landing in Vietnam is increasing to a greater extent. People who are wishing to visit a country famous for both cultural and natural beauty can prioritize Vietnam without any constraint. Even though there are thousands of places to visit, here are some highly recommended tourist spots which should not be missed once after landing in the Vietnam land: The 1000 year old capital Hanoi, breathtaking Halong Bay, peaceful Hoi An town, bustling and modern Ho Chi Minh City and countless of white sand beaches along the country from the North to the South. Each minute of you in Vietnam will be surrounded by friendly people who are eager to introduce you the unique culture or authentic cuisine of Vietnam which are now popular all over the world. Vietnam is now awaiting for your footprints to explore.. Our Vietnam tours offer a wide range of places to go and things to do across the whole country. From north to south, Vietnam offers scenic Halong Bay, vibrant city tempo in Hanoi, unparalleled leisure in Hoi An, imperial Hue, colonial Ho Chi Minh City and vivid Mekong Delta. From the intoxicating history and culture, stunning natural beauty, enjoyable beach holiday to an interesting fisherman experience, this hottest destination in Southeast Asia just has something for everyone.

For more details on our products and services, please feel free to visit us at  Vietnam adventure tours, Indochina cheap tours, Vietnam travel agency, Cambodia and Vietnam tours packages, best tour operators in Vietnam

[eratour02-blog]

Cambodia Adventure Holidays Part – I

Cambodia is a country in Southeast Asia that borders the Gulf of Thailand. Neighboring countries include Laos, Thailand, and Vietnam. The geography of Cambodia is mountainous in the southwest and north and is dominated by the Mekong River and Tonle Sap Lake. The temples of Angkor are Cambodia most attractions to a large number of tourists but they’re just the beginning of the story. Phnompenh and Royal Palaces are worth for visiting for sure. And there is a long list followed by Sihanoukville’s beaches and islands are paradise found, Bokor National Park and the wild Cardamom Mountain, Elephant treks in Mondulkiri and Ratanakiri’s crater lakes await in the mountainous northeast, home to hill tribes, Endangered Irrawaddy dolphins get cameras clicking in Kratie, a five-hour boat ride down the Mekong River from Phnom Penh….Let’s broaden your knowledge to the diverse and lively culture of Cambodia. Cambodia bordered by Thailand to the northwest, Laos to the northeast, Vietnam to the east, and the Gulf of Thailand to the southwest. Known as a country of great Angkor Temples in Siem Reap, the beaufitul beach in Shihanouk villes and a sad history relics in Phnom Penh.. Killing field • We deal with local trusted people whose own businesses is dependent upon fully meeting our clients’ requirements • Our clients are provided with contact telephone numbers for assistance should they require any assistance — not an anonymous “call center” but someone who knows the locality and can offer quick help to resolve the issue. • We are based in Indo-China, so we pay local prices for services passing on the savings to our clients • Perhaps most importantly, we started this business because we are travel professionals who are immensely proud of the rich diversity Indo-China has to offer discerning travellers. We want to share our knowledge and enthusiasm with our clients to give them the most memorable experience.

Laos Adventure Holidays

Laos is fast becoming the darling of South-east Asia, satisfying all the romantic images of perfumed frangipani trees, saffron-robed monks, rusty old bicycles and golden temples, all set amongst a rich tapestry of tropical river islands, ethnic minority villages, cascading waterfalls and vivid, green rice paddies, and bound together by the mighty Mekong River, the country’s lifeline.Often overlooked in favour of its better-known neighbours as Vietnam, Cambodia, Thailand, Laos remains one of Southeast Asia’s most beguiling destinations. Caught in the middle of the two Indochina wars and long isolated from the rest of the world, the country retains a slow, rather old-fashioned charm, and its people — incredibly laidback and friendly, even by Asian standards — are undoubtedly one of the highlights of any visit. Laos, officially known as the Lao People’s Democratic Republic (Lao PDR), is one of the poorest nations in Southeast Asia. A mountainous and landlocked country, Laos shares borders with Vietnam to the east, Cambodia to the south, Thailand to the west, and Myanmar and China to the north.

For more details on our products and services, please feel free to visit us at Vietnam travel agency, Indochina cheap tours, Cambodia and vietnam tours packages, Vietnam holiday tours, Vietnam group tour packages

[eratour02-blog]

Top Ten Interesting Facts About Bagan Part - I

Bagan was the capital of the Kingdom of Pagan from the 9th to the 13th centuries. This kingdom was the first to unify the area that is now Myanmar, establishing the Burmese culture and ethnicity, as well as Theravada Buddhism, in the region. Over this period of rule, as the city and kingdom grew in influence and stature, over 10,000 temples were built on the plains surrounding the capital next to the Irrawaddy River. Below are a few facts about the city.

1. Bagan Archaeological Zone is the main attraction to tourists in the city. It easily rivals Angkor Wat in Cambodia. 2. Bagan is fondly known as the ‘sea of temples’. Some of this temples include; Ananda Temple, Thatbinnyu Temple, Htilominlo Temple, Myinkaba Gubyaukgyi Temple, and Shwezigon Pagoda among many others. 3. Bagan has a relatively stable climate that ensures more sunshine than any other Myanmar city. 4. Bagan Cuisines are said to be the best in Asia. They combine the exploits of Indian, Chinese, and Thai culinary genius with some of their own to come up with the best food you can taste anywhere in Asia. 5. Bagan is as traditional a city can get. In fact, there is not a single form of modern entertainment in the city. There are no discos there. 6. Although walking the narrow streets among the temples and pagodas is the best way to see the city of temples, there are hot air balloon rides that will make the rides in any other city you know look like child play. The city is best photographed from hot air balloon. 7. The best way to see Bagan is on a temple hopping tour. However, don’t plan on seeing all of them. Choose the most popular. 8. The best time to visit Bagan is November through to May when the rainfall is limited. 9. To get around Bagan, you can either board a flight to Nyaung U Airport which is a few minutes’ drive from the city or you can catch a bus or train from Mandalay or Yangon to get to see more of the country. 10. Bagan is one of the cheapest tourist destinations. Meals here will cost you $1-$5, and mid-level accommodation at $40 — $60.

If you love photography, old sites, and religion, the only alternative as good as Angkor Wat in Cambodia is Bagan in Myanmar. Good luck on your journey.

For more details on our products and services, please feel free to visit us at vietnam adventure tours, indochina cheap tours, vietnam group tour packages, vietnam travel luxury, best tour operators in vietnam

[eratour02-blog]

Journey Beyond The Lake

It’s well worth taking a day or two to travel beyond Inle’s most easily accessible sights, or to visit one of the region’s villages on market day.

Taunggyi, about an hour from Nyaungshwe by pick-up truck, is the administrative capital of Shan State, with a number of historic churches and Burmese-style mosques, and a night market selling cheap-and-cheerful local treats.

Taunggyi is also one of the locations for a rustic market that rotates among about a dozen towns in the Inle Lake region. The market happens every five days (except when there’s a full moon), drawing minorities down from the hills to trade livestock and produce. Other market towns include Maing Thauk, near Nyaungshwe; Thaung Thut, at the southern end of the lake; Pindaya, home of the Shwe Oo Min Natural Cave Pagoda; and Inthein, where the market is popular for its sheer size and photogenic setting. Hotels and guesthouses can advise you where the market will be heading next.

Further afield (and also on the market circuit), about three hours by pick-up from the lake, is Kalaw, a former hill station surrounded by Buddhist pagodas, hilltop viewpoints and the peaceful villages of the Palaung, Danu, Pa-O, Taung Yo and Danaw peoples. Set in a gorgeous landscape of forest-capped hills, Kalaw is a top trekking destination, and the starting point for two- to four-day hikes all the way to Inle. Many restaurants in Kalaw serve food with distinctive Nepali and Indian flavours, thanks to the labourers who came to build the railroad during British rule.

Myanmar’s Water World — Exploring Inle Lake

In the unique watery world of Inle Lake, Intha fisherman row canoes with one leg, gardens float, and wooden homes perch above the water on rickety stilts. Take some time to explore one of Myanmar’s most iconic destinations with an early-morning cruise, a cycle through the countryside, or sojourns into the surrounding hills and villages.

Take a boat trip

Getting out onto the water is naturally the most popular way to experience Inle Lake. Every morning a flotilla of slender wooden canoes fitted with long-tailed outboard motors surges forth, transporting visitors to various natural, cultural, religious and historic sites. Nyaungshwe, on the northern edge of the lake, is the base for setting out on motorboat trips — every hotel and guesthouse in town can help arrange one, or just wait for a boat captain to approach you in the street.

Trips can be tailored, but tours typically include visits to the famous sights in the northern part of the lake, such as Phaung Daw Oo Paya in Tha Ley, the Nga Hpe Kyaung (Jumping Cat Monastery) in Nga Phe village, and the floating gardens. Make sure to spend time observing the Intha fishermen (most photogenic at dawn) and their unique technique of rowing the boat with one leg while using both hands to fish. Other destinations further afield include villages Thaung Thut, Hmaw Be, and Samkar, and you can also include a visit to Inthein, where crumbing, hilltop pagodas look down on the water.

A standard day trip costs K15,000 to K18,000 (US$12 to US$15); or K20,000 with Inthein. The fee covers the entire boat; drivers will carry up to five passengers, who get padded seats and life jackets. Many trips start at dawn, when the light is great for photos. During the day it gets very hot: bring a hat, water and plenty of sunscreen. Sunset trips are also popular, although note it can get chilly on the lake. Most boats provide blankets but you may want a jacket or a wrap.

DIY cycling tour

Inle is not only about the water. It’s also possible to explore the perimeter by bicycle and take in some beautiful Burmese countryside. Many sights are clustered around the lake, including hot springs and small villages.

Begin in Nyaungshwe, where bikes can be hired for around K1500 (US$1.50) per day. Peddle west along an unpaved, bumpy road through farmland. Take a left at the T-junction and head south, following the mountains. After about 8km you will reach the Khaung Daing hot springs, where the water is piped into a series of swimming pools. A soak here costs adults US$7, or US$10 for a dip in a private pool.

Continue pedalling south until you reach Khaung Daing, an Intha village producing Shan State’s famous tofu. Shan tofu is made with split yellow pea flour, mixed with boiling and then poured into a mould to set. Thin tofu wafers are set out to dry, and you can enjoy a tofu thoke(tofu salad) for a few hundred kyat.

After lunch, hire a boat for K8000 (US$6.50) to ferry you and your bike across the lake. You’ll be deposited on the eastern side, where you can continue cycling north through sugar cane plantations and small villages.

As you near the north side of the lake you will see Red Mountain Estate winery to the east. Head up the hill for a magnificent view of Inle and the vineyards (you can also taste the wine for K3000). Continue around the north side of the lake, and head into Nyaungshwe before sunset as the roads are not lit.

For more details on our products and services, please feel free to visit us at cambodia and vietnam tours packages, vietnam travel agency, indochina tours, vietnam holiday tours, vietnam e visa

[eratour02-blog]

Vietnam Adventure Holidays Part - II

Vietnam is a beautiful country which is well known for natural beauty, long history and multiple cultures. Therefore, it is easy to understand the reason why the number of tourists landing in Vietnam is increasing to a greater extent. People who are wishing to visit a country famous for both cultural and natural beauty can prioritize Vietnam without any constraint.  Even though there are thousands of places to visit, here are some highly recommended tourist spots which should not be missed once after landing in the Vietnam land: The 1000 year old capital Hanoi, breathtaking Halong Bay, peaceful Hoi An town, bustling and modern Ho Chi Minh City and countless of white sand beaches along the country from the North to the South. Each minute of you in Vietnam will be surrounded by friendly people who are eager to introduce you the unique culture or authentic cuisine of Vietnam which are now popular all over the world. Vietnam is now awaiting for your footprints to explore..

Our Vietnam tours offer a wide range of places to go and things to do across the whole country. From north to south, Vietnam offers scenic Halong Bay, vibrant city tempo in Hanoi, unparalleled leisure in Hoi An, imperial Hue, colonial Ho Chi Minh City and vivid Mekong Delta. From the intoxicating history and culture, stunning natural beauty, enjoyable beach holiday to an interesting fisherman experience, this hottest destination in Southeast Asia just has something for everyone.

Cambodia Adventure Holidays

Cambodia is a country in Southeast Asia that borders the Gulf of Thailand. Neighboring countries include Laos, Thailand, and Vietnam. The geography of Cambodia is mountainous in the southwest and north and is dominated by the Mekong River and Tonle Sap Lake.  The temples of Angkor are Cambodia most attractions to a large number of tourists but they're just the beginning of the story. Phnompenh and Royal Palaces are worth for visiting for sure. And there is a long list followed by Sihanoukville's beaches and islands are paradise found,  Bokor National Park and the wild Cardamom Mountain, Elephant treks in Mondulkiri and Ratanakiri's crater lakes await in the mountainous northeast, home to hill tribes, Endangered Irrawaddy dolphins get cameras clicking in Kratie, a five-hour boat ride down the Mekong River from Phnom Penh....Let's broaden your knowledge to the diverse and lively culture of Cambodia.

Cambodia bordered by Thailand to the northwest, Laos to the northeast, Vietnam to the east, and the Gulf of Thailand to the southwest. Known as a country of great Angkor Temples in Siem Reap, the beaufitul beach in Shihanouk villes and a sad history relics in Phnom Penh.. Killing field

For more details on our products and services, please feel free to visit us at cambodia and vietnam tours packages, vietnam holiday tours, indochina travel company, vietnam travel agency & indochina cheap tours

[eratour02-blog]

Hanoi - Ba Be - Cao Bang – Hanoi

Tour itinerary

Day 1: Ha Noi - Thai Nguyen - Ba Be National Park (Lunch, Dinner) Have breakfast at hotel then transfer to Ba Be. Stop at Thai Nguyen City for a visit to the Ethnographic Museum. Arrive at Babe, dinner and night BA BE. Day 2: Ba Be - Cao Bang (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner) Boat trip on Lake Babe, visit a Tay-Tho village then transfer to Cao Bang. Stop on the way to visit Dong Dang market as well as Nung and Tay minority’s villages. Overnight in Cao Bang. Day 3: Cao Bang - Ban Gioc (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner) Cao Bang - Ban Gioc [G/B/L/D/ After breakfast enjoy a walk to Cao Bang local market and then take a tour to Bangioc waterfalls near the Chinese border On the way enjoy a short trek to visit Nung villages. Overnight in Ban Gioc Day 4: Ban Gioc- Hanoi (Breakfast, Lunch)

Free time your visit and relax. After check out hotel, Our car pick up and transfer to back to Hanoi. Trip Inclusion

• Accommodation in the category chosen or similar (subject to availability) based on double/twin sharing with daily breakfast. 01 Homestay in Ba Be, 01 nite in hotel mini in Cao Bang, 01 nites in hotel mini in Cao bang - Ban Gioc • Meals as mentioned in the program. B: 03 Breakfast, L: 04 Lunch, D: 03Dinner. • All local boat rentals as mentioned in the program. • Transfer from and to the airports by private vehicle with A/C. Transportation by private vehicle with A/C. ✓ 2 Pax : 07 Seats ✓ 03-10 Pax: 16 Seats • All entrance fees and sightseeing as mentioned in the program. Mineral Water (01 bottle/pax/day) • Local English speaking guide(s) in Vietnam. Trip Exclusions • Late check out or Early check in • International flight/ Domestic flight tickets and airport taxes. All internal/ regional flight tickets in economy class with/without departure tax. • Visa fee upon arrival in Vietnam (25 USD for one 1 month or 3 month single entry visa). (Vietnam visa authorization letter (10 USD/ pax). • Tips & personal expenses. Personal insurance. Any service not clearly mentioned in the program. Cancellation Policy

a. Cancellations must be advised by email / fax

b. The cancellation fees will apply:

• Cancelation 30 days prior to arrival date: USD 50 per person will be charged. • Cancelation from 20 days to 30 days prior to arrival date: 30% of total invoice amount will be charged • Cancelation from 10 days to 20 days prior to arrival date: 50% of total invoice amount will be charged • Cancelation less than 10 days prior to arrival date or no-show: 100% of total invoice invoice amount will be charged

Refund Policy

If tour participants buy additional services which are not included in their program, the service fee will be charged on spot.

If tours participants cancel some services and / or portion of the tour program at their will during the trip, reimbursements shall not be made for these unused services and /or portions .

If in the course of the trip, an illness or mishap befalls a tour participant that entails extra services and /or medical attention arranged by company, all the related additional costs shall be defrayed by the participant himself or herself on the spot.

Confirmation Policy

All of our services are to be booked with Explore Real Asia (in short ERA) in Hanoi.

A deposit of at least 30% of the tour price per person is required upon a confirmation of your booking. After we received your deposit or full payment, we will issue our service voucher and send to you by e-mail or fax together with our invoice or receipt of your payment.

For more details on our products and services, please feel free to visit us at Vietnam Travel Agency, Indochina Cheap Tours, Vietnam Adventure Tours, Vietnam Group Tour Packages & Best Tour Operators In Vietnam

[eratour02-blog]

Vietnam E Visa - eratour.vn is best online website for vietnam group tour packages, vietnam travel luxury, indochina travel company, Vietnam DMC, best tour operators in vietnam