Dear friends and business partners,
Changes are the only constant in our world and this is especially applicable to the ‘when’, ‘how’ and ‘what’ regarding the opening of borders and easing of restrictions in our countries of operation – so travel can return to normality.
The lack of unity on a regional scale makes it hard to determine what is next on the agenda for the easing of travel controls. Although I am frequently asked about the situation on the ground in all of our destinations, our country teams are working hard to provide the latest up-to-date information.
The CEO story
The focus in my latest story is the Asian Trails’ family.
I am privileged to give you an update on how our employees have dealt with a pandemic that has hit them hard for nearly two years.
Their human resilience has shone through, with many using enforced time off to learn new skills, pursue self-improvement programmes and most importantly, help others.
The level of selfless activities they have undertaken to benefit both individuals and communities is truly heart-warming and I would like to put on record my appreciation for their positive reaction during very testing times.
Yours sincerely,
Laurent Kuenzle
CEO Asian Trails Ltd
Search For Seclusion Supplied
Asian Trails meets villa-only demand
The surge in demand for family-orientated accommodation with a more secluded location is being met by our Indonesia and Thailand teams.
Our personnel in these two countries have created more villa-only products in key tourism destinations that accommodate the shift in customer demand for self-catering facilities during pandemic-enforced restrictions. Essential components include isolation from public areas and recreational amenities. To view our portfolio of new villa choices, please contact us at: marketing@asiantrails.org.
Alternatively, view these options through the Asian Trails’ Cloud.
Singapore opens chilled museum
Sweet attraction for families
The sweetest dreams are brought to life during a visit to Singapore’s latest attraction, the Museum of Ice Cream.
The 6,000 sq-m complex contains 14 multisensory and interactive installations to inspire the mind, including a Dragon’s Playground, the largest ‘sprinkle pool’ ever created containing plastic multi-coloured ice cream sprinkles and a pink oasis at California Beach.
This is the first international outlet outside of the United States and it has been created in a former colonial barracks.
New Jungle Hideaway in Laos
Isolation close to Vientiane
For a true back to nature experience in Laos, the recently opened Nam Pien Yorla Pa Resort is the perfect choice.
Situated in the heart of the Phou Khao Khouay Conservation Area, this rural idyll is just over a one-hour drive from the capital Vientiane. Guests can bed down in one of 12 deluxe rooms that are surrounded by an expanse of natural greenery. Floor to ceiling windows enhance the connection with the dense jungle that surrounds each accommodation unit.
Romance reigns in Vietnam
Dreamy destination for couples
Situated among the rugged terrain and greenery of Mount P’apiu in Northern Vietnam lies the couples-only retreat of P’apiu Resort – the perfect place to absorb this spectacular destination.
The property draws inspiration from the sublime surroundings, including the sustainable approach and ethnic culture of the local indigenous groups. This is reflected in the decor, food presentation and organised activities that connect directly with nature.
Elevated walkways, romantic lunch spots and ample vantage points to admire the scenery add to the ambience.
Serene Refuge near Phnom Penh
Riverside resort offers rural escape
Visitors to Phnom Penh seeking a more sedate stay are advised to head to Phumara Resort.
Situated 35-km outside of the capital, this serene site comprises traditional wooden villas and suite cottages positioned in plots surrounded by dense vegetation overlooking the Mekong River. Delicious Khmer dishes created from the resort’s own organic garden enhance the rural experience.
The picturesque scenery, tranquil setting and easy access from the metropolis make this an ideal location for small to medium-sized group events and functions.
DESTINATION UPDATE
Different discovery of the Great Wall of China
In the quest for new trails and more unique stays, Asian Trails’ China product team has devised new tours around the Great Wall of China.
This 3,000-year-old fortification provides an iconic backdrop for the discovery of less-visited destinations, such as Gubei Water Town. This is situated at the foot of the barrier’s Simatai section and it features ancient northern architecture aside a lake. It is especially magical at night when floodlit and viewed from the Wall.
As befits its name, this is a great place to relax in a natural hot springs pool. Day trips from Beijing are also available.
An Exploration of Thailand’s World Record Holder
As part of an ongoing trend for travel to more secluded sanctuaries, our Thailand product team has devised a new three-day package that explores the isolation of Khao Sok National Park.
This amazing 738-sq-km protected area in the South contains an evergreen rainforest that dates back 160 million years – the oldest in the world! Besides virgin jungle, mysterious caves and towering limestone karst formations, this reservation is home to abundant wildlife, including elephants, tigers and leopards.
Our discovery includes long-tail boat exploration of man-made Cheow Lan Lake and kayaking down the Khao Sok River. Overnight is in nature-based jungle lodges.
Malaysia’s Long Forgotten Island Reborn on Asian Trails’ Tours
Jerejak Island, off the eastern coast of Malaysia’s northerly Penang Island, has had many different faces over time. It has been a leprosy colony, a tuberculosis hospital and a quarantine station for immigrants. It is now reborn as an adventure location as jungle has reclaimed the land, allowing wildlife to thrive.
Our new guided trekking tours head through thick coastal forest and alongside fringed mangroves in search of white-bellied sea eagles, long-tailed macaques and monitor lizards. Instagrammers will be fond of amazing photo opportunities, such as Rainbow Pier. After viewing a spectacular sunset, dining options include two old ferries transformed into floating seafood restaurants.
Empowerment on the Menu in Vietamese Restaurants
Our guests in Vietnam can taste classic national dishes that will be even more satisfying when they learn their patronage has helped disadvantaged youth.
Our excursions to KOTO’s restaurants in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City enable diners to contribute to a not-for-profit social enterprise that empowers marginalised individuals through intensive training courses. Students aged from 16 to 22 are equipped with English language, cooking and other hospitality skills so they can gain employment that provides a living wage.
Besides educating the chefs of tomorrow, KOTO, an acronym for ‘Know One, Teach One’, is renowned for fresh, high-quality South-East Asian cuisine.
