November 7th, 2008
Trek Putao’s Snow-capped Mountains
For tourists with a taste for adventure, Putao is an ideal place. A small town in the northernmost Kachin state, Putao possesses scenic spots and snow-peaked mountains with cold weather all year round. This area is especially famous for its rare flora and fauna, such as the rare black orchids, red panda, black bear and black deer which are all native to this region. Putao is also home to Southeast Asia’s highest mountain – Mt. Hkakabo Razi (5881m). Exotissimo Myanmar has planned some trekking itineraries with local experts from November 2008 to April 2009. To find out more, please contact myanmar@exotissimo.com.
The fascinating Chin people live on the hills west of the Irawaddy River in northwest Myanmar. Chin State is mountainous and villages are scattered across the many hills. Their hand-woven cotton and silk dresses are intricately designed and dyed, and a trademark of the Chin’s skill at textiles. In the past, even their dresses and beads have been valued as collectibles. Perhaps the most distinct feature of the Chin are their facial tattoos. This tradition is slowly being phased out, though there are many who still honor this practice.
Cambodia’s empty roads, shady dirt paths and trails and welcoming communities are a real treat for cyclists and trekkers alike. The relatively flat routes and natural scenery have contributed to a rising demand of cycling and trekking holidays to Cambodia. Adventure Cambodia has adjusted its routes to make sure that you are able to visit the best of what the beautiful countryside have to offer. Lunching with local families, enjoying visits to countryside farms and non-profit organizations and sleeping in pagodas are all unique features that will create your perfect, memorable holiday.
The romantic heart of Vietnam has long had a second side to it, an adventurous side. Exotissimo Travel has been hard at work identifying new soft adventure activities to take advantage of Dalat’s cool climate, gorgeous waterfalls and rolling hills.
While following the Old Elephant Trail, our intrepid explorers came across Le Musikee Resort. This property is one that can be rightfully labeled off the beaten path (ironic given how we found it), as it is five hours from Chiang Mai and an hour and a half from Pai, in the heart of the Karen hinterlands. It is perfect for those looking for an authentic hilltribe experience, with activities based upon their daily lives: trekking, rice planting, fishing, etc. The cozy bungalows ring a large lawn area where campfires and bonfires are lit nightly. The dirt roads leading to Le Musikee are a bit difficult, and we recommend it rather for adventurous (and school) groups.
This month, we are pleased to offer a new Orchid Trek through Phou Khao Kuay. In cooperation with the National University of Laos and Vientiane Orchidees, this tour will take flower lovers through the National Protected Area of Phou Khao Khoay, just an hour and a half from Vientiane. In addition to the gorgeous flowers, clients will visit with the villagers of Ban Hatkhai. This tour will promote both an awareness and a sustainable income in harmony with Mother Nature. It’s a nice eco-friendly addition to any visit to Vientiane.
