Laos travel is, in many ways, typical of other Southeast Asian countries. We have found that renting a motorcycle is a great way to see a city or town, and Johnny has begun to drive like a local. Yikes! That means making turns without even looking to see if there is another car coming. Usually they drive quite slowly and people just yield for each other all the time. It seems to work.

Laos is a typical South East Asian Country in many ways – open air food stalls on every street with vendors selling barbequed meat on a skewer, fruit or other cooked foods, leaving your shoes at the door of not only temples, but homes, stores and restaurants, showers with no curtains so the water goes all over and soaks everything in the bathroom, hot water a luxury, squat toilets or western style but with no seat, and tuktuk (motorcycle taxi) drivers aplenty.

The food has, thankfully, been quite good here, as in Thailand. There are many Indian restaurants, as well as vegetarian Asian dishes everywhere, and yummy baguettes. Our typical bill for a meal for the two of us is around $3.00. I don’t think a day has passed that we have not eaten rice.

After a number of days in Vientiane, we flew to Luang Prabang, a lovely little city set in the mountains, about halfway between Veintiane and the Chinese border. It is a magical setting, with Wats everywhere. The town is a Unesco World Heritage site.

Young novice monks are a common sight, clad in orange robes, usually barefoot, and often carrying umbrellas to guard against the sun. Most Lao boys will temporarily ordain as monks for anywhere from a number of weeks to several years, with many choosing to remain for the rest of their lives.

In the mornings at around 6:30, the monks walk in silence through the streets to receive food from the locals and tourists alike. It is quite a sight to see, hundreds of monks, some look as young as 7, parading barefoot, single file, carrying baskets slung over their shoulders to receive their alms. Vendors sell bundles of cooked rice, wrapped in banana leaves, to the tourists, so that we have something to give to the monks. The locals just use their hands and toss handfuls of cooked rice into the baskets. The only source of food for the monks is donated and it appears that it is mostly rice. I wonder how a person could survive just eating rice.

The guesthouse where we have been staying is right next to a Wat, so we can hear the morning and evening gongs, which is the call to prayer. 4 times a month the drum is also sounded, and that is what we woke to this morning.

Johnny and I visited a Wat and a young monk struck up a conversation with Johnny. I stood back until the monk spoke to me, as I was not sure if it was allowed for a woman to converse with one. I know that it is not allowed for a woman to touch a monk. This young man, Nordiaw (pronounced Nodio), is 19 and has been at that temple for 5 years. He enjoyed speaking English with us and he opened up the Wat for us and answered all our questions. He was very sweet and we spent about an hour with him. He laughed when I answered that I had no children, because in this country that is almost unheard of. We read some of his English homework and I wrote some things in his book to help with pronunciation. Th and sh sounds are foreign to the Lao tongue. Nordiaw then exchanged email addresses with Johnny!

He mentioned that foreigners are welcome to the Wat during prayertime and invited us to attend that evening. I was incredulous and knew I had to grab this opportunity. I felt intimidated about just strolling into a Wat at prayer time, although I knew I would not be judged and it was the right thing for me to do. I also knew it would likely be the chance of a lifetime, so I took it. As soon as the prayer gong was sounded I entered the temple and I was all alone, so I knelt and meditated for about 15 minutes before about 14 monks came in together. After their initial prayer, they reverted to chanting. The one old monk, kneeling at the front, would sing one line, then the rest of the group would respond with a very long verse. Their voices filled my body and my spirit, as I knelt with my eyes closed and got lost in the sensation.

This was such an uplifting experience, I only wish I could have sung along with them. I left the temple at exactly the right moment, I believe, because as soon as I walked out, they stopped chanting. The sun had just set and the pathway was lit with lanterns. This was an hour in my life that I will never forget. I have come away from this experience with more questions than answers, and I know how lucky I am.

Here are a few tours in Laos, currently on sale (expires Sept 28, 2017).

Thailand and Laos Adventure – 14 days, from $1432 CAD ($1178 US). Visit temples in Chiang Mai then spend the evening exploring the night market. Sail the Mekong into the heart and soul of Laos.

Cambodia and Laos Mekong Adventure – 15 days, from $1963 CAD ($1615 US). From Angkor Wat to remote river towns, journey down the Mekong and into the heart and soul of Southeast Asia. This adventure offers an intriguing blend of included activities and free time for personal discovery.

What Is Angkor Wat? UNESCO World Heritage Angkor, near Siem Riep, Cambodia, is a site you don’t want to miss.

Angkor is one of the most important archaeological sites in South-East Asia. Stretching over some 400 km2, including forested area, Angkor Archaeological Park contains the magnificent remains of the different capitals of the Khmer Empire, from the 9th to the 15th century. They include the famous Temple of Angkor Wat and, at Angkor Thom, the Bayon Temple with its countless sculptural decorations. UNESCO has set up a wide-ranging programme to safeguard this symbolic site and its surroundings.

Angkor Wat is the largest religious monument in the world. The initial design and construction of the temple took place in the first half of the 12th century, during the reign of Suryavarman II (ruled 1113 – c. 1150). It was originally constructed as a Hindu temple of god Vishnu for the Khmer Empire, gradually transforming into a Buddhist temple towards the end of the 12th century as his state temple and eventual mausoleum. The site covers 162.6 hectares (402 acres).

Be sure to visit Angkor while in Cambodia. Here are a few tours to keep you hopping.

River Cruise – here is an 8 day tour aboard a classic riverboat sailing from Siem Reap to Ho Chi Minh City. Get a true taste of river cruising while visiting the Cai Be floating market, the fishing port of Kampong Chhnang, and stilt villages like Chnok Tru. From $1954 CAD ($1533 US), book by August 29, for select dates to Dec 31.

Cambodia Experience – 9 days Ho Chi Minh to Bangkok. Soak up the colours, culture, and history of this incredible region. Its natural beauty coupled with tumultuous history make Cambodia a truly fascinating destination from $1062 CAD ($833 US) departures August and Sept.

Cycle Ho Chi Minh City to Bangkok – 12 days from $2422 CAD ($1900 US). Roll past the temples of stunning Angkor Wat, cruise around Phnom Penh, and enjoy the villages and rural life around Siem Reap. Book by Aug 23, for select departures Sept 1 – Dec 16.

 

Do you wonder where to go in Greece? Everyone knows about the beaches, and what about the food, history, archaeology, scenery and the unparalleled joie de vivre that is Greece? As the country was already inhabited from prehistoric times, traces of human civilization can be found everywhere, in all corners of the country. Athens is the historical capital of Greece. The country offers over 100 outstanding archaeological sites; the best known being The Acropolis in Athens. The National Archaeological Museum of Athens is one of the most important museums in the world.

Around 6,000 islands and islets are scattered in the Aegean and Ionian Sea, most of them grouped in clusters, that constitute the unique Greek archipelago. Crete, Rhodes, Corfu, the Dodecanese and the Cyclades are some of the famous and popular islands and island clusters in Greece.

Santorini seems to be made for romantics and is immensely popular. But even well-known tourist attractions can actually live up to their reputation—and a sunset over the caldera is hard to beat. During the day, visit a winery, relax on some of the world’s most colorful beaches, or venture offshore for a tour of the volcano.

Rhodes, the largest of the Dodecanese, has been famous since antiquity for its Colossus of Rhodes, one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Today, it’s most known for its Old Town (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) and the 14th-century Palace of the Grand Masters, which was once a Turkish prison.

Mykonos’ reputation precedes it, and for good reason. While most of the Greek islands are laid-back enclaves, this cosmopolitan Cycladic island can satisfy any and all of your nightlife needs, from surfside lounge bars to wild clubs. Mykonos also has a burgeoning art scene.

Kefalonia will more than satisfy beach lovers. Greece has more than 8,500 miles of coastline, so sand-and-surf fiends have no shortage of places to put their towel. Still, of the Greek islands, Kefalonia is one of its beach meccas, and Myrtos Beach, which sits between two mountains, is its most famous. Cinephiles will recognize the island from its onscreen time in 2001’s Captain Corelli’s Mandolin, which was filmed here.

Ikaria is perfect for adventure-seekers and the lovers of the outdoors. Deriving its name from Icarus, who in Greek mythology fell into the sea nearby, Ikaria is primarily mountainous, which makes it an excellent island for walking and hiking. (The island’s network of paths, known as monopatia, will take hikers from coast to coast, through oak and pine forests, and from one mountaintop to another.) Post-hike, relax in the mineral bath houses at Therma, whose waters reputedly have curative properties.

Hydra, a mere two hours from Athens by hydrofoil, remains blissfully free of wheeled vehicles. That’s right, no cars or scooters here. Instead, you’ll find cobblestoned streets traversed by mules and donkeys, immaculate stone mansions, and picturesque, harbor-side cafes.

Whether you’re looking for culture and nightlife, fresh seafood, or some of the best in the world, you’ll be able to find it in one idyllic trip. Here are some sample tours to answer the question where to go in Greece.

Best of Greece – 15 days from $2899 CAD ($2226 US). The must-see historical sites of Athens and Delphi, the rugged plateaus of the Samariá Gorge, isolated Cretan villages and the sway of Santorini.

Adriatic Adventure – for 18 – 30 somethings. Dubrovnik to Athens 9 days from $1299 CAD ($1000 US).

Sailing – Santorini to Mykonos (or reverse) 8 days on 15 m yachts from $1399 CAD ($1074 US).

Sailing – Athens to Santorini 15 days from $2399 CAD ($1847 US). Select departures Sept and Oct.

Cycling – 8 days from $1895 CAD ($1455 US).

Walking – Discover the 3 islands of Paros, Naxos and Santorini. 8 days from $1675 CAD ($1286 US).

For more information on these or any tours, contact us.

Walking Tours in Europe

Whether you are planning to conduct a pilgrimage, or just for the sheer exercise and adventure, walking tours in Europe are a great way to see a country up close. The great thing about Europe, is proximity of towns and villages to each other. There is always an opportunity to stop for a break.

Spain’s Camino de Santiago is quite popular, as is Italy’s Cinque Terre, but have you thought about trekking past ancient Greek ruins, or braving the cool weather while taking in stunning scenery in Greenland? Walking across an island or exploring a local village trail gets you in touch with the local culture, history, food and people.

These are not high altitude hikes, but low level and easily doable for people with reasonable fitness levels.

Here are just a few walking tours in Europe

Austria – Walk through the Tyrol. 8 days from $1575 CAD ($1199 US). Be surrounded by the lush meadows and jagged peaks. This trek will involve a higher fitness level than the others mentioned and walking can be 5 – 7 hours per day.

Greenland – 8 days walking through untouched regions of wild Greenland. From $5985 CAD ($4556US). A spectacular walking journey through the mountain and coastal wilderness of Greenland’s fjorded east coast.

Greek Islands – Walk on the islands of Santorini, Paros and Naxos 8 days from $1675 CAD ($1275 US). The Greek islands have much more to offer than most would think: archaeological treasures, history, culture, dramatic landscapes overlooking an azure coloured sea and, of course, delicious food. Our week starts on the beautiful island of Naxos, before heading to Santorini and Paros.

Norway Trekking Weekend – Take in the jagged edges of Norway in just a few days’ jaunt. 4 days from $2275 CAD ($2112 US). Take a glacier walk on the Folgefonna glacier and walk up to the famous Trolltunga.

Italy’s Cinque Terre – 8 days for $1525 US. This is a rare jewel that changes with the light of the day, a play of colours, mainly reflected by the blue of the sea, dotted with gold, pink and green houses.

Spain – Walking the Camino de Santiago. 8 days from $1899 CAD ($1446 US). This is a well known adventure trail. Trace the steps of pilgrims walking from Lugo to Santiago de Compostela.

For more information on these or any walking tours, contact us.

Iceland tours

A country of extreme contrasts, there are numerous and wide-spread Iceland tours to suit every traveller. Known as “The Land of Fire and Ice”, Iceland has some of the largest glaciers in the world, and some of the most active volcanoes in the world.

There is a great diversity of landscapes, from moss covered lava fields, barren highlands, to soaring fjords.

Iceland is typically divided into different geographical regions. Each region differs slightly in respect of culture and landscape, but all are uniquely Icelandic.

Regions

From wonderful waterfalls, to great glaciers, the south has it all. On the Golden Circle, you’ll see the breathtaking waterfall Gullfoss and the Geysir hot spring area, where the geysir Strokkur erupts every few minutes. Further east along the shore, you will find Skógafoss Waterfall, Jökulsárlón Glacial Lagoon, Vatnajökull Glacier, and several other natural wonders.

The north is a land of contrasts. Long valleys and peninsulas are interspersed with mountains, lava fields and smooth hills. The north coast is at times lush with vegetation, and other times barren. The midnight sun is awe-inspiring.

The Westfjords are a wilderness and ideal for spotting birds and Arctic Fox. West Iceland is one of Iceland’s most geologically diverse regions, with slumbering volcanos, majestic waterfalls and a variety of flora and fauna.

The east coast is home to the country’s largest forest, lush farmlands and a range of small fjords and islands. A variety of fishing villages, and small seaside communities border the coast.

Don’t forget the capital city, Reykjavík. With a population of 120,000, it is not a bustling metropolis but you will find a steady beat keeping the city full of energy and events.

The Reykjanes peninsula is a geothermal wonder, where lighthouses outnumber villages. The Keflavík International Airport is found here, along with the spectacular Blue Lagoon.

The highlands are surrounded by obsidian and colorful rhyolite mountains and provide stunning hiking routes. Bathe in natural hot rivers in the geothermal area of Landmannalaugar and trek through a hidden valley surrounded by mountains, glaciers and rivers.

Iceland Tours

Here are a few tours to consider:

7 days Best of Iceland tour, from $2799 CAD ($2081 US)

8 days Trekking in Iceland, from $3099 CAD ($2304 US)

For more information on these or any other tours contact us.

A few facts about Victoria Falls, aka The Smoke That Thunders: It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site situated on The Zambezi River forming the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe. Victoria Falls is classified as the largest waterfall in the world, based on the combined width, 1708 m, and height, 108 m.

It was described by the Kololo tribe living in the area in the 1800’s as ‘Mosi-oa-Tunya’ – ‘The Smoke that Thunders’. In more modern terms Victoria Falls is known as the greatest curtain of falling water in the world.

Columns of spray can be seen from miles away as, at the height of the rainy season, more than five hundred million cubic meters of water per minute plummet over the edge, over a width of nearly two kilometers, into a gorge over one hundred meters below.
The wide, basalt cliff over which the falls thunder, transforms the Zambezi from a placid river into a ferocious torrent cutting through a series of dramatic gorges.

The falls generate mists that can be spotted from 20 km away. The best time to visit Victoria Falls is from February to May, directly after the summer rains. During the rainy season, however, the spray plume can obscure the view of the falls themselves. By November, when the water is at low ebb, visitors may see the curtain split into many smaller channels of falling water.

The falls are massive and invite contemplation from many different viewpoints. Trails invite you to walk around the area and enjoy vistas. Unique views are also to be had from the Knife Edge Bridge and Victoria Falls Bridge. River-level views from below the falls are a good way to experience their power up-close. At certain times of the year the daring may even swim in pools on the very crest of the cataract. Swimming in the “Devil’s Pool” looks as if visitors are flirting with disaster, but is not as dangerous as it looks, thanks to an underwater lip. Located on the Zambia side of the falls, the pool is only accessible during the dry season from August to January.

Private tours that include visits to Victoria Falls:

See Southern Africa – Delve deep into the delights of Southern Africa, from Big Five safari to spectacular scenery, rich history, majestic waterfalls, gourmet food and wine and a classical rail journey on this See Southern Africa Tour.

Encompassing Zambia Safari – This luxurious Zambia safari will give you wilderness encounters in pristine national parks. Stand in awe of Africa’s largest waterfall, majestic Victoria Falls, and explore Lower Zambezi and South Luangwa National Parks by foot, boat, in jeeps, by day and night.

Water and Wildlife Safari – Feel the spray from The Smoke That Thunders, Victoria Falls, watch for the Big 5 on game drives, from hides, walking and boat safaris, and explore Lake Kariba on this encompassing Water and Wildlife Safari Zimbabwe.

You can also join a Group Tour.  Contact us for more information.