Nature

Archive for the ‘nature’ Category

Witness the Untouched Beauty of Khone Phapeng Falls in Southern Laos

Mar 12th, 2010 by Exotissimo | Comments: 0

Khone Phapeng Falls is one of Laos’ greatest natural attractions. It is located on the Mekong River in Champasak Province, Southern Laos. The waterfall is one example as to why it is impossible to navigate up into China on the Mekong River from Southern Laos.

In the late 19th century, the French made numerous efforts to navigate the river into China, but were not successful. The solution they came up with was to build a railway between the two islands on the falls, thus avoiding the steep rapids.

Khone Phapeng Falls is one of Southeast Asia’s largest waterfalls in terms of volume. It is 21 meters high and is formed from three emerging cataracts merging into one powerful torrent. The waterfall and its nearby pool feature numerous islets, rocky outcrops and bedrocks popping out of the water’s depths. This allows local fishermen to employ their fishing technique by using bamboo ladders to place fishing traps.

Khone Phapeng Falls is home to an unusually large sized catfish species called the plabuck or Mekong giant catfish. Measuring more than 3 meters and weighing over 300 kilograms, it is world’s largest freshwater fish. The species however is critically endangered mainly because of overfishing and development. Because of this, it is banned to fish for this species.

The Khone Phapeng Falls is also a great place to relax and unwind in the Laos wilderness. The best view is from the viewpoint pavilion, located above the waterfall. There are also nearby lakes where visitors can swim in, which leads to the pool and cataract. Having a picnic is another popular activity for both local and foreign tourists, with nearby food stalls providing the meals. In addition, handicraft artisans have set up shops around the area, promoting traditional Lao products to the masses.

The falls at Khone Phapeng is a wonderful site and a great example of Laos’ beautiful wilderness. It is highly recommended to visit this site as well as Wat Phou, which you can do on our Wat Phou Cruise tour. This way, you can get the best of Champasak and experience the province’s best cultural and natural sites, along with other interesting visits in the area. We also recommend A Blend of Calm in Southern Laos tour if you would like to explore the area further. On this trip, you will be escorted to the scenic Boloven Plateau and enjoy an elephant ride through the forests. A stop at Siphandon is also in the itinerary, all cumulating into one peaceful trip. You may also contact us if you have any questions or would like us tailor a tour to suit your needs.

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Filed under: Laos Travel, nature

Discover the Colorful Hilltribes of Northwest Vietnam in Mountainous Sapa

Mar 3rd, 2010 by Exotissimo | Comments: 0

Sapa is a scenic mountainous town in Lao Cai Province in Northwestern Vietnam, near the Chinese border. It is one of the region’s major towns and where many ethnic minorities such as the Hmong, Dao and Tay live.

This scenic valley town had its fair share of unfortunate events throughout its history. Conflicts during World War 2 and successive wars after that nearly resulted in Sapa being entirely wiped off the map. The town was almost forgotten, save for a few dedicated residents. With the recent surge of tourism in Vietnam, Sapa experienced a revival of sorts. Roads have been upgraded, new hotels and resorts have sprung up and electricity service has become consistent and reliable.

Most of the people around the town of Sapa work on sloping terraces, growing rice and corn. The rainbow-colored smocks of the Hmong, the bright red headdress of the Dao and the blue clothes of the Tay and many other tribes all converge to the town’s markets every day, providing a great photo opportunity and a chance to experience a truly colorful and lively market place.

The town is also famous for its scenic and rugged landscape. Situated in the Tonkin area (sometimes informally know as the Tonkin Alps), Sapa is 1,600 meters above sea level. Because of this elevation and mountainous terrain, the town receives unique seasonal climates, ranging from subtropical (maximum of 30°C) during the summer and temperate (minimum of 0°C) during the winter. Snow falls in some peaks during the colder winters, making for an unusual scene in Southeast Asia. January to June is the town’s dry season, with the first two months of the year being the coldest and foggiest months. Spring in Sapa consists of excellent weather and the summer is warm with high chance of rain. Fall, just like spring is also a great time to visit Sapa.

Visitors can take a short two kilometer walk to the Hmong community of Cat Cat. The village is famous for its brocade weaving craft as well as its gold and silver jewelry making. In addition, the town is also known for its unique tradition known as ‘wife pulling’. A single man may ask one of his friends if he knows a single woman. The woman is then invited to stay at the single man’s house for three days and if she is interested in him, they can marry. She is also free to leave if she does not show an interest in the man. The walk to Cat Cat Village and its nearby hills provide an opportunity to see farms and techniques used by the people in the area. The path also provides great views of Sapa and the surrounding area.

Sapa is a unique Vietnamese town that adds a new dimension to a Vietnam visit. It’s temperate weather, breathtaking mountain scenery and influx of colorful hilltribe people creates an unforgettable experience. Exotissimo’s Sapa Essential tour allows you to discover this rich and vibrant town along with its nearby neighbors. If you are interested in a thorough North Vietnam program, then The Best of Northern Vietnam tour is for you. After visiting Sapa and Lao Cai near the Chinese border, you will experience the colonial charm of Hanoi and be whisked away to the always scenic Halong Bay. If you’d prefer a varied adventure tour through North Vietnam, then Exotissimo would like to recommend the Sapa to the Sea tour. Trek along the magnificent trove of Northern Vietnam, starting from the buzzing capital of Hanoi to the scenic mountains of Sapa and finally to the mystical waters of Halong Bay. You may also see our recommended Vietnam tours for other memorable trips into this magnificent country.

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Filed under: Vietnam Travel, nature, trekking

Bokor National Park – Southern Cambodia’s Home to Unique Wildlife and Stunning Scenes

Feb 24th, 2010 by Exotissimo | Comments: 0

Bokor National Park (officially called Preah Monivong National Park) is 1581 square kilometers of protected land in Southern Cambodia, near the Vietnamese border. A large range of vegetation and a wide variety of rare and threatened animals such as elephants, leopards, bears, monkeys and birds reside at these premises. One famous man made attraction at the park is the French built Bokor Hill Station.

The hill station was constructed in 1921 on Damrei Mountain (also known as Elephant Mountain), which is over 1,000 meters above sea level. The town was built by settlers as a means of escaping the heat and humidity of Phnom Penh. The main attraction of the resort is the Grand Bokor Palace and Casino. Surrounding it are shops, a church and apartments.

There are several methods of travelling up the mountain. Visitors can choose to rent a 125cc scooter or large dirt bikes. If one does not feel comfortable driving up the path, bike drivers can also be hired. Visitors may also choose to rent a car with a driver as a means of getting up to the park.

Bokor Hill Station has been abandoned twice because of war, once in the late 1940’s and a second time (and for good) in 1972. A lot of the scarring from these wars is present for visitors to see today. The remains though are a great place for a scenic view of the Cambodian and Vietnamese coastlines as well as the many outlying islands. Walking around the casino, hotels and other buildings can be a little spooky, especially if one of the frequent mist rolls in. City of Ghosts starring Matt Dillon and a South Korean horror movie R-Point were filmed here. About 10 kilometers from the hill station is the Black Palace, an abandoned summer palace of King Sihanouk.

The national park consists of several tracks ranging from two to eight hours in walking duration. These paths are filled with green scenery and occasional encounters with Southern Cambodia’s wildlife. There is also a path that leads to the two-tier Popokvil Waterfall, which is a spectacular site to visit, especially during the monsoon season. The waterfall is a great site for a picnic lunch, a refreshing swim or for picture taking.

Unfortunately, Bokor National Park is still threatened by poachers, loggers and development. In the 1990’s the park was a candidate to be World Heritage Site, but the problems that plagued Bokor put this on hold. However, there are a group of devoted foresters and enforcement rangers from the Wildlife Alliance dedicating their time to protect the park.

Bokor National Park is an interesting destination in Cambodia. The paths leading to the park is scenic and rudimentary, which makes a trip to the park memorable. The cool mountain air, the adventure and scenery are all good reasons to travel up to Bokor as well and is a great visit from nearby Kep (8 kilometers) and Sihanoukville (95 kilometers). If you would like to visit Bokor National Park as a day or overnight trip on our Kep Escape or Sihanoukville Escape tours, feel free to contact us. You may also view our suggested Cambodia tours page for other remarkable trips into this wonderful country.

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Filed under: Cambodia Travel, Sightseeing, nature

Experience Thailand’s Untouched Wonderland at Khao Sok National Park

Dec 31st, 2009 by Exotissimo | Comments: 0

Khao Sok National Park is in Surat Thani province in Southern Thailand. It is a haven of plants, animals and fresh air and is easily one of the most diverse national parks in Thailand.

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Khao Sok was declared a national park by the Thai government on December 22nd, 1980, making it the 22nd national park and covers an area of about 739 km2. It consists of lush tropical jungles, waterfalls, limestone cliffs and an island stubbed lake. The national park receives the most rainfall in Thailand because the area is influenced by both the Northeast (Pacific Ocean) and Southwest (Indian Ocean) monsoons. The park contains the country’s largest area of virgin forest and the jungle at the park is actually older and more diverse than the Amazon Rainforest.

The national park is home to a wide array of flora and wildlife. Chance encounters with tigers, leopards, elephants, gibbons, deer, hornbills, the king fisher and a whole bunch of arthropods, amphibians and snakes are possible at Khao Sok. The most famous attraction though is the Rafflesia Kerrii flower, which is known as Bua Put in Thai. This rare red flower has a diameter of 50-90 centimeters, earning it the distinction of world’s largest flower (the largest kind though does not grow in the park, but three other species do). Although beautiful in sight, the same cannot be said of its smell. The flower gives off a strong odor, similar to compost because the flower is not pollinated by insects seeking nectar but by flies. The flowers only blossom in January to early March, so if the flower is the main reason to come to the park, it is then best to plan accordingly.

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Exotissimo’s Khao Sok National Park Jungle Escape offers excellent trekking, canoeing and other adventure experiences in this beautiful nature sanctuary. Peacefully kayak the Sok River or Chieow Laan Lake and admire the nature that surrounds you, trek through the jungles to beautiful limestone karst formations or rumble through the jungle on an elephant. You can also see our suggested Thailand tours page for other memorable trips in the country or contact us if you have any questions.

Filed under: Thailand Travel, nature

Cast Yourself Away to the Pristine Scenery of Phang Nga

Dec 28th, 2009 by Exotissimo | Comments: 0

Phang Nga is a town (and the capital) of the southern province of the same name located approximately 800 kilometers from Bangkok. The town has a population of about 9600 people and covers an area of about 6.75km². Most people come to Phang Nga for one reason which is to explore the bay.

Phang Nga Bay was declared a national park on April 29, 1981. It is a geological wonder filled with eye pleasing sites such as beautiful islets, limestone karsts, sunken caverns and other rock formations all rising out of the emerald sea. You may have heard of James Bond and the numerous films about the spy agent. Did you know there is an island in the bay called James Bond Island? Koh Ping-Gan (its original name) got its memorable nick name because it is one of the settings in the James Bond film “The Man with the Golden Gun”. Another popular destination is Koh Panyee, otherwise known as Sea Gypsy Island. The village in the island is built with stilts over the water with a giant rock formation guarding its rear. Most people go there for lunch and handicrafts shopping after visiting James Bond Island. After all the tourists leave, the village magically transforms into a sleepy community of fishermen.

While you are there, you can also visit other beautiful islands in the vicinity. These are some of the less visited spots in the area, but are still equally gorgeous and impressive. One of these islands is Koh Hong. The islet and the surrounding area are home to beautiful caves that are only reachable by kayak. Take a break and enjoy a picnic lunch (since there will be no restaurant or eateries in the area) before continuing on your kayaking adventure to Koh Panak, where you will set up camp and admire the area under the starlit night.

The bay is one of the most beautiful spots in Thailand and Exotissimo has a three night Camping & Kayaking in Phang Nga Bay tour for a fulfilling excursion into the area. Kayaking, picnic lunches, and beautiful limestone caves await you on this trip. If you do not have much time in Phang Nga but would still like to experience the bay, then why not take our one day Phang Nga Bay Adventure – Phuket tour? Cruise on the emerald waters and see the beautiful rock formations from your speedboat. Who knows, you may even see a monitor lizard paddling the Andaman Sea, a monkey feeding on a shellfish or a sea hawk swooping down into the water for its catch. You can also see our suggested Thailand tours page for other tour options into this beautiful and varied country.

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Filed under: Adventures, Sightseeing, Thailand Travel, nature

A Visit to one of the Less Visited Towns in one of the Less Visited Countries, Putao Myanmar

Dec 17th, 2009 by Exotissimo | Comments: 0

A journey to Putao in Kachin State literally takes you off the beaten path. Most people associate Southeast Asia with its cultures, beaches, temples, tropical climate and friendly people. Although you will get some of these elements in a Putao trip, a stay in Myanmar’s northernmost town is sure to present you with unique experiences not found anywhere else in Southeast Asia.

If we told you there is snow in Southeast Asia, you probably will not believe us. However, a trip to Putao can change all that. The town is located right on the edge of the Himalayan Mountain Range, near the border with India. Mount Phogun (3485 meters high) and Mount Hkakabo Razi (5900 meters high) form a beautiful backdrop as you soothe in the clear mountain air. Putao is also known for the various hilltribes that live in the area. The Naga, Kachin and Shan are just a few of the tribes that you can meet while in Putao.

The town can only be reached by air, making Putao one of the less visited places in the country. Nature lovers will be pleased to know that the area surrounding the town is home to a variety of bird species and rare orchids.

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If you enjoy nature, the soothing mountain air and meeting people whose culture remain untouched through the centuries then our Putao Luxury Escape is the package for you. We will take you on an enlightening journey through one the northernmost spots in Southeast Asia. You will embark on an elephant ride through the picturesque area, rumbling through beautiful rice fields and small streams. A chance to experience a bit of Putao life also awaits you on this tour as you experience the hustle and bustle of the local market and visit a nearby village.

During your visit to Putao, you will stay at the lavish Malikha Lodge. Set amidst beautifully manicured lawns, gardens and dense jungles, it is the perfect headquarters for an unforgettable experience in Putao. The Lodge’s private bungalows are centered on massive handcrafted teak bathtubs and all rooms feature custom fireplaces. Secluded amongst towering bamboo trees, the bungalows provide ultimate privacy in the gorgeous natural surroundings.

Myanmar is a fascinating and varied country and you can see Exotissimo’s recommended Myanmar tours for other unforgettable experiences in this charming country.

Filed under: Hotels and Resorts, Myanmar Travel, nature

Get a Taste of Northern Lao Life at Kamu Lodge, Laos

Nov 27th, 2009 by Exotissimo | Comments: 0

A trip to Northern Laos will present you with a land of jungle, mountains, and rice paddies. You can sometimes forget that you are in the 21^st century when you are in the natural surroundings of Northern Laos. To make the most of your time in this region, you should stay at the Kamu Lodge.

Kamu Lodge is a tented style lodge offering you an African safari style accommodation. The tents themselves were imported from South Africa. The lodge is named after one of the ethnic groups who live in area. It is the perfect place to stay if you are looking for a peaceful escape from the modern world. The lodge is located about three hours upstream from Luang Prabang, on the west bank of the Mekong River.

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Kamu Lodge may not be a five star super luxury hotel but the charming and family friendly place more than makes up for it with a peaceful stay in the heart of Northern Laos and fun outdoor activities. It also offers great tasting food and a well-stocked bar. Some of the funds the lodge receives from guests are set aside to provide education to the village’s children and for other development projects.

There are a range of fun events that can be enjoyed by the whole family. You can spend your time at the Kamu Lodge Beach and swim in artificial pools beside the river. You may also choose to try your hand at some archery. It is a great opportunity to interact with the staff and other guests. Activities that make up the lives of the Kamu people such as traditional fishing, rice farming, weaving and gold panning are also options for you. Kamu Lodge can also arrange boat rides and treks to the nearby waterfalls. While staying at the lodge, you might also be treated to a traditional performance by the villagers and afterwards, a try at the always fun bamboo dance.

The modern world becomes a faint memory when you sit at one of the balconies and gaze into the mighty Mekong River. If you are looking for a memorable time in Northern Laos’ pristine nature, then we would like to recommend you our Luangsay Cruise and Kamu Lode Downstream tour. You will spend one night at the lodge and further information about your tented stay can be reached at our Kamu Lodge page. You can see our Laos tour collection for other packages into this beautiful and laid back country or contact us for any additional questions.

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Filed under: Hotels and Resorts, Laos Travel, nature

A Cruise on the Emeraude

Nov 19th, 2009 by Exotissimo | Comments: 0

If you are ever planning a trip to Vietnam, a stop to Halong Bay is a must. It is a beautiful area filled with limestone islands that rise up from the clear emerald waters. Exotissimo has an excellent tour of Halong Bay aboard the Emeraude.

The Emeraude is a replica of an early 20^th century steam ship used for cruises along Halong Bay. It went into service in 2003 and retains all the features, charm and atmosphere of the steamer during the early 1900’s. The ship was part of a fleet the Roque brothers built when they left their native Bordeaux in 1858. The brothers went to Vietnam looking for adventure and fortune and found both, despite their share of ups and downs. They had a successful trading and timber business, almost went bankrupt and was even taken hostage by pirates. Eventually, the brothers built the Emeraude along with four other steamers to cruise passengers along Halong Bay.

The ship houses over 30 luxury cabins and suites. Polished wooden floors and brass fittings make up the elegant and comfortable rooms. The ship also includes a café, a restaurant, a foot massage service and tai chi sessions on the sundeck in the morning, all while taking in the marvelous scenes of Halong Bay on a steady 10 nautical knot cruise.

Explore Halong Bay in style with Exotissimo on board the Emeraude with our one night Emeraude Experience on Halong Bay tour or a one day Emeraude Cruise – Halong Bay package. A visit to Halong Bay is a great way to start or finish up a Vietnam tour, so you can always peruse Exotissimo’s Vietnam tour page for a memorable experience in the country.

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Filed under: Sightseeing, Vietnam Travel, nature

Refresh Yourself At Laos’ Nature Getaway In The Boloven Plateau

Oct 22nd, 2009 by Exotissimo | Comments: 0

The Boloven Plateau is an elevated region in Laos that that can be as high as 1,350 meters above sea level and is a part of the Annamite Mountain Range. The area holds important historical and economical significance to Laos.

The Boloven Plateau is a major agricultural area. More than 100 years ago, the French introduced many of the agricultural techniques crops to the inhabitants including coffee. The area suffered greatly during the Second Indochina War. It was considered a strategically vital area for the Americans and the North Vietnamese and as a result, the Boloven Plateau received heavy bombings. Evidence of this can be seen today as unexploded ordnances are still scattered throughout the area and bombing craters in other areas. The Ho Chi Minh Trail passes through the Boloven Plateau as well.

With the area’s beautiful waterfalls, coffee plantations, and history, the Boloven Plateau is a region in Southern Laos that should be visited when visitng Laos. You can bask in the 120 meter Taat Fang walls or enjoy the aroma and taste of the region’s freshly brewed coffee. Be sure not to stray off the trail when visiting the Bolovens Plateau as some mines and bomb duds still exist and are being cleared at the moment. Many ethnic tribes call the Boloven Plateau home, so there are numerous chances for visitors to experience their way of life.

Enjoy refreshing coffee and jump into one of the many waterfalls with Exotissimo’s Boloven Plateau Loop - Pakse. Appreciate nature and refresh your mind as you unwind in Indochina’s nature haven as an extension to our Laos tour.

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Filed under: Laos Travel, nature

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Home | Why Exo? | Blog

Why Exotissimo?

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Archive for the ‘nature’ Category

Witness the Untouched Beauty of Khone Phapeng Falls in Southern Laos

Discover the Colorful Hilltribes of Northwest Vietnam in Mountainous Sapa

Bokor National Park – Southern Cambodia’s Home to Unique Wildlife and Stunning Scenes

Experience Thailand’s Untouched Wonderland at Khao Sok National Park

Cast Yourself Away to the Pristine Scenery of Phang Nga

A Visit to one of the Less Visited Towns in one of the Less Visited Countries, Putao Myanmar

Get a Taste of Northern Lao Life at Kamu Lodge, Laos

A Cruise on the Emeraude

Refresh Yourself At Laos’ Nature Getaway In The Boloven Plateau

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Simon & Yvonne Hodges

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MEMBERS| TRAVEL TRADE

Home | Why Exo? | Blog

Categories

Recent Articles

Archives

Blogroll

Archive for the ‘nature’ Category

Why Travel with Exotissimo?

Where to find us

Cao Quang Trung - Graphic Designer Hanoi

Simon & Yvonne Hodges

Carmen

Corporate Information

Travel Partners

Travel Agencies

Other Links

Exotissimo Travel Vietnam

Exotissimo Travel Thailand

Exotissimo Travel Cambodia

Exotissimo TravelLaos

Exotissimo Travel Myanmar

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TRAVEL TRADE

Exotissimo Travel
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