Spirit of Laos and Cambodia

The tour was generally good. Some of the accomodations weren't the best, for example they were far away from everything so there was only one place for meals (at the hotel), and some were just not very clean. However, others were really great--so I guess part of travelling in that part of the world. I think it would have been better to have one local guide for the whole trip, rather than a guide from somewhere else with various local guides--but again it was fine. Two main things I would like to see changed would be to have more variety of sights--mostly just totally touristy and second, a number of us talked about having hotels that quoted prices for meals etc. in USD (and explore had their tip prices in USD. This is bad for the countries that are struggling with their economies--so we should be paying in their currencies.

Travelling to Laos and Cambodia in the dry season has its advantages ( less heat, mosquitoes) but equally dry and dusty roads, desolate countryside. Travelling becomes more observational than leisurely. The local guides were very good, dedicated in giving us the best of what the itinerary had to offer, maybe this is what is referred to as the highlights, and the in depth. The proposed itinerary should be reviewed as it leaves out some great sites, that would be favorable add ons when in the dry season where nature, and waterfalls are not so spectacular.

I loved the Laos part, not so much the Cambodian itinerary. Saturday 31 (day 14th) was way too long ! I suggest a change: go to Angkor Wat for sunrise instead of doing a very long collection of multiple temples in the morning which resulted in tired and hot tourists visiting the main temple after lunch and staying over until sunset to see the Golden Temple. Another option: tell us we can stay at the hotel in the morning and join the scheduled tour by taking a tuktuk for 10 USD after lunch. To most people (certainly not for the local tour guide) most temples look/are the same. Saturday is also a time when locals visit the temples so there are hordes of people competing for space for rituals and photos. Or this day 14th activity should be moved to a Friday to avoid crowds. I also wish the Laos part had been a day shorter to give us a bit extra time in Cambodia. Or, offer pax an optional extension to the beaches and the country's capital. The floating village was exceptionally interesting

The tour was excellent, busy but enough free time to explore or relax. Some long journeys but worth it.

Fabulous trip, well balanced, varied and well thought out itinerary. Thoroughly enjoyed the whole experience. Accommodation was overall very good. Excellent Explore guide and local guides. Despite it being a “full on” paced trip I felt there was a good amount of down time providing opportunities to either have a massage, visit an elephant sanctuary (luang prabang) or browse around the local markets to buy local crafts. Loved it!! Whole trip was enhanced by being in a wonderful group