What an amazing team! We explored the most beautiful part of India, filled with incredible places and unforgettable experiences. The guides Pooja were excellent and very knowledgeable. Everyone was helpful, and supportive, and went above and beyond to ensure we had an enjoyable trip.
We booked the Classic Ceylon Sri Lanka Tour for our honeymoon. The tour agent was Aitken Spence Travels. Day 1: Arriving at Colombo airport, we were greeted by our guide/driver named Rane (guide and driver are the same person throughout the tour). Our first stop was the Ramada Hotel in Columbo, where we checked in. You can take advantage of the afternoon to explore the city or relax at the hotel. We have reviewed each hotel separately in this thread if you want to learn more about each hotel review in detail. Our guide agrees on a time for you to be picked up the next morni g, which was ours at 8am. to start on time. Colombo is a busy city so traffic can be very busy. Day 2: Drive from Colombo to Dambulla, which is approximately a 4-hour drive away. Your guide will make a rest stop for a drink if you wish. Once we reach Dambulla we visit the Temple of the Rock. This fascinating temple is built on the side of a rock with some historical monuments of Buddhas and paintings. Once we had visited the temple, we stopped for lunch at one of the various Sri Lankan tourist restaurants. The food is in keeping with the country and there are usually rice, potatoes, various meats and salads on the menu. We were never disappointed. Lunch is not included in the tour price so it is extra, but at approx 600 rupees it is very reasonable in terms of cost. Some days we didn't fancy lunch and you can skip this if you want. Your driver will be very accommodating. We were then taken to our hotel which would be home for the next 3 nights: Amaara Forest Hotel (review available separately). The following days consisted of: Day 3 - Drive from Sigiriya to Polonnaruwa to visit the 2nd Heritage of the Capital City. This is an amazing experience that offers a fantastic insight into Sri Lankan history. After this we reached Minneriya to the national park. The opportunity to see elephants in the wild is something not to be missed. There are also wild buffaloes, monkeys, birds, and many more animals to witness. We also visited a silk shop where silk was made, and we were dressed in traditional Sri Lankan clothing, where you can take photos of each other. The ladies at this store were wonderful and we bought a few items. The woodcarving factory is also a good stop, where you can watch how they make traditional Raksha masks and other items. We really wanted to buy a pair of these and the factory store on site had plenty to choose from at reasonable prices. Day 4 - Sigiriya Rock Fortress (Lion Rock). This spectacular rock of approximately 200 m high has impressive views. The only way to achieve this is through lots of steep steps so you will need to wear some good trainers as flip flops will wreck your feet. It can get quite busy on the stairs for the first part as there are historical paintings to see a third of the way which causes the delay, but it picks up soon after. Don't let this delay put you off, I almost decided not to bother you, but the wife talked me into it and I'm glad I did. When you get to about 2/3 of this way, this is where the Lions entrance is. At one point this one had a huge rock lion face on it which is sadly gone. From this point you can reach the top and the view of Sri Lanka can be seen for miles. Word of advice to all of you, there are people who offer to "show" you the rock, they will expect payment for their services, so you politely say no or agree to a cost up front. Also when on the stairs there will be men offering to help him up (at one point taking my wife's hand and escorting her down the stairs which I soon said no to) in all fairness once I say no they will leave you alone, so don't do it. Don't let this discourage you, but be prepared. This day you also have a tour of a rural town in a carriage and a boat ride. You may be offered lunch here which is a great experience and at 600 rupees well worth it. A local lady prepares dinner in her cabin in the woods, and there is a good choice to have. You won't get a chance to experience this again so totally recommend it. Day 5 - Kandy. The journey from the hotel above to here is around 2.5 hours, but it breaks down to an intermediate stop at Spice Garden, where you can see how various spices grow and are shown how to make curry mixes from scratch. The day also included a visit to a gem museum. Generally these places have a room or two showing the history of the gems etc but then a shop at the end. We found the gem shop too expensive for what we wanted to get out of our souvenir shopping, so we didn't buy anything. Again, you don't have to buy anything if you just want to look around. After you transfer to another hotel, we stopped at Earls Regent in Kandy. Day 6 - We visit the Botanical Garden which is a lovely relaxing day where you can walk slowly and take in the surroundings. After this, you can have lunch or return to the hotel to relax. Day 7: We visit a tea plantation on this day where you can see the process from tea leaf picking to the final product. We were allowed to pick tea leaves in the hills as well as visit the shop on site to pick up some reasonably priced local tea/souvenirs. From this point, you can return to the final hotel of the tour to rest in Nuwara Eliya. You can, if you wish, take a walk in the area near the hotel. Day 8 _ This is the route back to the airport, which takes around 7 hours in total, but is broken down by the different sights offering opportunities for waterfalls and a few breaks at local cafes and restaurants. As a guide, we leave at 8:30 am and arrive at the airport at 3:30 pm. Overall the tour was amazing but very tiring. It's not a relaxing vacation, so if you can get a second week in a row somewhere, you can relax. We went to the Maldives which is a 1 hour flight to Male airport. Some final points:
We were advised to tip the driver between $5-10 per person per day as an example, but you can tip what you feel was worth. Your guide will offer to take you to other places that are not listed on the tour and will be charged. If you don't want to do this, just say no thanks and they won't accept you. We almost fell for this and arrived at a spa which we were told would cost 5,000 rupees each for an hour which works out to a total of �40 so not a huge cost but we really didn't want a spa visit So we politely said we weren't interested. On the last day you will also be asked if you want to go rafting, which we didn't do as the last thing we wanted was to get wet en route to the airport. Overall, a worthwhile trip to an amazing country.
This tour hit all the right notes for us. We wanted something that showed us different parts of Thailand without being too intense or expensive. The days were full but never overwhelming. We saw big landmarks like the Grand Palace and White Temple but also had time for small experiences, like sipping coffee at a local cafe in Chiang Mai or watching the sunset from the beach in Phuket.
The flights between cities made travel easy and we were always met on time. Having a guide in each place helped us understand the history and customs better and they answered every question we had.
We’re not “tour people,” usually, but this one made things simple. It was structured but with enough flexibility. If you’re thinking about Thailand and want a little adventure without the stress of planning I’d definitely recommend this tour.
Adventure
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Very responsive and informative in emails! We had our trip planned smoothly by Ganesh. Our guide Roshan is helpful and funny! Had a great trip to Mohare Danda end of June. Will definitely come back when it's not monsoon season :)
This 10-day adventure takes you around the beautiful island of Bali. Discover the natural beauty of this piece of heaven and the enchanting Balinese culture as you wander around the island in a vintage car, cycle through remote villages, snorkel in pristine waters, trek through the jungle, enjoy an exciting boat trip, and even see an active volcano. Experience the Balinese lifestyle up close through cultural performances, and savour the distinct flavours of the local cuisine. Join this special tour, and have a memorable escape in paradisiacal Bali!
Join us on this 10-day 'Treasure of Vietnam and Bali' tour to uncover the pleasures and splendors of two of the top South East Asian holiday destinations. Start in Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) and work you way toward Mekong Delta, taking in all the sights and culture, before flying to Bali, Indonesia, where you will get to explore the famous temples, rice terraces, and beaches.
In Vietnam, tour the city of Saigon, the famous tunnels of Cu Chi, and floating villages of Mekong Delta, while in Bali, enjoy the tour of the iconic floating temple of Ulun Danu, the Unesco-listed Jatiluwih rice terraces, and the 11th century Gunung Kawi temple complex. While in Bali, you will have two free days to explore the sights and attractions on your own, or simply relax in the beaches.
With accommodations, meals, transport fares, and guide services all taken care of, all you have to do is enjoy the tour.
For more details, go through the itinerary section below.
Local cultureCruise
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Age Range
1-90 yrs
Operated in
English
Destinations
Bali, Ho Chi Minh City, Mekong D
Bali, Ho Chi Minh City, Mekong Delta, Cuchi Tunnels, Can Tho, Saigon, Nusa Dua
55% OFF TODAY
This deal is valid for limited time. Book now to reserve your seats.
This tour will take you through the greatest attractions in India and Nepal! Begin your journey with a trip to India, starting in Delhi, a fascinating city that has served as home to dynasties, rulers, and ancient civilizations. Discover the breathtaking palaces and lively marketplaces of this historical capital before you drive to Agra and visit the Taj Mahal. En route to Bharatpur, you will discover Fatehpur Sikri, the abandoned capital of the Mughals. In Bharatpur, you will get an opportunity to visit Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary, famous for housing a variety of birds. Next, you will travel to Jaipur, Rajasthan's capital, a bustling, lively destination known as the Pink City! Visit famous landmarks such as the Amber Fort, Hawa Mahal, and Jantar Mantar Observatory, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Next, you will fly to Kathmandu, the breathtaking capital of Nepal, for your final stop on this tour, where you will see some of the most historically significant temples in the region.
Every day was jam-packed with awesomeness. A special nod to our travel expert, who didn't just plan our trip but made it happen with style. His quick replies and round-the-clock support were the real MVP – seriously, saved us a ton of dough and hustle. Lodging was on point, especially our stays at the Lapis Hotel and Lasenta Hotel. Comfy beds, great views, and service that made us feel like VIPs. And our driver got us around with the smoothest of rides. Our guide, filled with facts, fun, and super friendly. The grub was special, especially that cooking class in Hoi An where we got to roll up our sleeves and mix it up with the local flavors. Those limestone cliffs in Ha Long Bay were great! This experience is just like a memory bank, and I'm withdrawals at the thought of it already!
CruiseSightseeing Tours
Tour Type
Private Tour
Accommodation
Hotel
Age Range
1-85 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Halong
Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Halong Bay, Hoi An, Da Nang, Ha Long Bay
An unbelievably great experience traveling in Vietnam. We were met at the airport by their english speaking guide. Over the next two weeks we had a great visit. Travel was by bus, ship and airplane around the country. The bus drivers were great. Guides were personable and knew the area. We had multiple included meals and they all were great. We saw Vietnam from Hanoi to the Mekong Delta. Overall a trip of a lifetime.
Natural landmarks sightseeing
Tour Type
Group Tour
Accommodation
Hotel
Age Range
8-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Mekong
Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Mekong Delta, Danang, Da Nang, Hue, Halong Bay
Embark on an unforgettable family adventure through the enchanting landscapes of Vietnam with this meticulously crafted itinerary. Begin your journey in the heart of Vietnam, Hanoi, where the bustling streets and historic sites beckon. Explore the city's rich culture with a thrilling Jeep tour, weaving through narrow alleys and vibrant markets, providing an immersive experience for the whole family. From Hanoi, venture to the ancient Bat Trang village, renowned for its exquisite ceramics. Witness skilled artisans at work, and even try your hand at crafting your own masterpiece. This hands-on experience is sure to delight both adults and children alike. Next, head to the picturesque Topas Ecolodge in Sapa, nestled amidst the Hoang Lien Son mountain range. The eco-friendly resort offers breathtaking views of terraced rice fields and traditional ethnic minority villages. Immerse yourselves in the local culture, partake in guided treks, or simply relax in the serene surroundings. Continue your journey to the stunning Bai Tu Long Bay, a less crowded alternative to its famous neighbor, Ha Long Bay. Cruise through emerald waters, marvel at limestone karsts, and enjoy family bonding time on the deck of a traditional junk boat. Engage in water activities, explore hidden caves, and create lasting memories against the backdrop of this natural wonder. Conclude your Vietnam adventure in the charming town of Hoi An, known for its well-preserved ancient architecture. Dive into the heart of Vietnamese cuisine with a hands-on cooking class, discovering the secrets behind traditional recipes. Unleash your creativity during a lantern-making workshop, where each family member can design and craft their own vibrant lantern to illuminate Hoi An's enchanting streets. This family trip promises a harmonious blend of cultural immersion, outdoor exploration, and hands-on activities, creating cherished moments that will be treasured for a lifetime.
Highlights:
Explore the rich history of Hanoi by visiting iconic landmarks like the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, the Old Quarter, and the Temple of Literature. mmerse yourself in the city's vibrant culture, from traditional water puppet shows to bustling markets offering a taste of local life. Indulge in Hanoi's diverse and delicious street food. ...more
Navigate through the narrow streets of Hanoi in a Jeep, discovering hidden gems and off-the-beaten-path locations. Gain unique insights into the daily life of Hanoians as you interact with locals and witness the city's dynamic energy. Enjoy the flexibility of a Jeep tour, allowing you to customize your route and focus on the aspects of Hanoi that interest you the most.
Witness the time-honored tradition of ceramic making in Bat Trang village, where skilled artisans create intricate pottery. Try your hand at pottery, creating your own unique piece under the guidance of local experts.Engage with the friendly locals, learning about their craft, and gaining a deeper understanding of the village's cultural significance. ...less
Revel in the breathtaking panoramic views of the Hoang Lien Son mountain range and terraced rice fields surrounding Topas Ecolodge. Immerse yourself in the daily lives of ethnic minority communities, exploring their villages and traditions. Embark on guided treks through the picturesque landscapes, offering an opportunity for family-friendly exploration.
Sail through the stunning emerald waters of Bai Tu Long Bay aboard a traditional junk boat, surrounded by towering limestone karsts. Experience the serenity of a less crowded bay, allowing for a more intimate and tranquil exploration. Engage in kayaking, swimming, and exploring hidden caves, enhancing your connection with the natural beauty of the bay.
Delve into the world of Vietnamese cuisine with a hands-on cooking class in Hoi An, creating and enjoying traditional dishes. Discover the enchanting ambiance of Hoi An's lantern-lit streets, and craft your own vibrant lantern in a guided workshop. Appreciate the well-preserved architecture of Hoi An's ancient town, showcasing the town's cultural and historical significance.
Adventure
Tour Type
Private Tour
Accommodation
Hotel, Hut, Lodge, Resort
Age Range
1-80 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Hanoi, Sapa, Halong Bay, Hue, Ha
Hanoi, Sapa, Halong Bay, Hue, Hai Phong, Lan Ha Bay, Nam Cang, Danang
This ten-day, private tour is a harmonious blend of China's unique historical legacies and modern trends. Starting from in Beijing, the modern-day capital of China, this tour will take you to Xian, Guilin and Yangshuo before coming to an end in Shanghai.
See the world-famous Tian'anmen Square in Beijing and explore the Mutianyu section of the Great Wall, widely regarded as one of the best portions of this monument. Learn more about the first emperor to rule over China in Xian, home to the Terracotta Army, which have been standing for over two millennia now. Sail down the Li River from Guilin to Yangshuo enjoying picturesque landscapes along the way.
This tour comes to an end in Shanghai, China's financial capital. For more details, please go through the details below.
The trip included Kerala and Goa lasted for 14 days. It included Kochi, Water canals, house boat, healing treatment, nature, tea plantations and more. All the hotels were first rate as well as the drivers and guides long the way
Sightseeing Tours
Tour Type
Private Tour
Accommodation
Hotel, Home-stay
Age Range
3-80 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Kochi, Kerala & Tamil Nadu, Alle
Kochi, Kerala & Tamil Nadu, Alleppey, Munnar, Periyar, Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, Kollam
Join this fascinating ten-day tour starting from Yunnan province in China all the way to Vientiane, the capital of Laos. Immerse yourself in tea plantations hiking Nannuo Mountain, experience life in local villages and indulge yourself with the flavour and aroma of Pu'er tea. Explore Luang Prabang, the Jewel of the Mekong and end the tour in Vientiane on the banks of the Mekong River.
Join this memorable ten-day tour and see some of Thailand´s most beautiful attractions. Start your adventure in Chiang Mai, the beautiful former capital of the Lanna kingdom, mingle with the locals in the night market, and be amazed by the beauty of the ancient Buddhist temples before continuing to Sukhothai and Ayutthaya, two UNESCO World Heritage Sites that both served as capitals of Siam. Your odyssey ends in bustling Bangkok, the capital known as the ‘City of Angels’.This tour is operated in a small group of up to 8 passengers.
Art and architecture
Tour Type
Group Tour
Accommodation
Hotel, Resort
Age Range
6-99 yrs
Operated in
italian, french, spanish, german
Destinations
Bangkok, Ayutthaya, Kanchanaburi
Bangkok, Ayutthaya, Kanchanaburi, Chiang Rai, Chiang Mai, Sukhothai
15% OFF TODAY
This deal is valid for limited time. Book now to reserve your seats.
