{"id":12047,"date":"2020-01-25T06:14:07","date_gmt":"2020-01-25T06:14:07","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/pulseonline.co\/?page_id=12047"},"modified":"2020-02-07T06:04:25","modified_gmt":"2020-02-07T06:04:25","slug":"bar-and-speakeasy-hopping-in-asia","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"http:\/\/pulseonline.co\/index.php\/bar-and-speakeasy-hopping-in-asia\/","title":{"rendered":"Bar and Speakeasy Hopping in Asia"},"content":{"rendered":"<table style=\"height: 5px;\" width=\"43\">\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<p style=\"text-align: justify;\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><a href=\"http:\/\/pulseonline.co\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/CEO-Story-cover-image-January-2020..jpeg\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"wp-image-12050 alignleft\" src=\"http:\/\/pulseonline.co\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/CEO-Story-cover-image-January-2020.-300x225.jpeg\" alt=\"CEO Story cover image January 2020.\" width=\"453\" height=\"340\" srcset=\"http:\/\/pulseonline.co\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/CEO-Story-cover-image-January-2020.-300x225.jpeg 300w, http:\/\/pulseonline.co\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/CEO-Story-cover-image-January-2020.-400x300.jpeg 400w, http:\/\/pulseonline.co\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/CEO-Story-cover-image-January-2020..jpeg 954w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 453px) 100vw, 453px\" \/>Dear friends and business partners,<\/a><\/span><br \/>\n<span style=\"color: #000000;\"> 20 years of Asian Trails, followed by the arrival of 2020, mark the dawn of a new decade and an affirmation of solidifying our name for blazing new paths in travel since our inception. It has been a challenging year where you, our clients, have continued to take centre stage with us driving innovation in product diversification, service delivery and customer support. This trend will continue for the next 20 years in a world where technology is driving our industry to new heights.<\/span><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: justify;\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\"> But Asian Trails would not be Asian Trails without adhering to the human factor, the need to talk with us and continuing to rely on our in-depth knowledge of our destinations in East and South-East Asia.<\/span><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: justify;\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\"> I wish all of you a very Happy New Year, one that will be fuelled by wanderlust.<\/span><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: justify;\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\"> <strong>The CEO Story<\/strong><\/span><br \/>\n<span style=\"color: #000000;\"> Our Asia has emerged as a destination with wonderful hidden spots for a great evening out without getting lost in the crowd. A recent survey revealed that many of our key destinations host some of the best bars and \u2018speakeasy\u2019 in the world \u2013 perfect venues to have a unique cocktail, to chill with friends and to mingle with the locals. My recent travels have brought me to some of these hotspots (and the lesser-known ones) where I found myself amidst really creative approaches to the concept of speakeasy\u201d.<\/span><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: justify;\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\"> Whether it\u2019s Singapore or Shanghai on your (incentive) list there are numerous suggestions to spice up your evening. My dive into the growing demand for these eclectic venues is my first <a style=\"color: #000000;\" href=\"https:\/\/asiantrails.us13.list-manage.com\/track\/click?u=53b3f716dddb402770f86459e&amp;id=a9ba54293e&amp;e=55a666f575\">CEO Story<\/a> for the new year.<\/span><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: justify;\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\">&#8212;\u00a0<\/span><span style=\"color: #000000;\">Laurent Kuenzle\u00a0<\/span><span style=\"color: #000000;\">CEO\u00a0<\/span><span style=\"color: #000000;\">Asian Trails Ltd<\/span><\/p>\n<table width=\"100%\">\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td width=\"50%\">\n<table width=\"100%\">\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td>\n<h2>New waterpark in Phu Quoc<\/h2>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>\u00a0<a href=\"http:\/\/pulseonline.co\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/Vietnam-Phu-Quoc-Water-Park-copyright-free..jpeg\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\" wp-image-12063 aligncenter\" src=\"http:\/\/pulseonline.co\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/Vietnam-Phu-Quoc-Water-Park-copyright-free.-300x225.jpeg\" alt=\"Vietnam - Phu Quoc Water Park (copyright free).\" width=\"359\" height=\"269\" srcset=\"http:\/\/pulseonline.co\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/Vietnam-Phu-Quoc-Water-Park-copyright-free.-300x225.jpeg 300w, http:\/\/pulseonline.co\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/Vietnam-Phu-Quoc-Water-Park-copyright-free.-1024x768.jpeg 1024w, http:\/\/pulseonline.co\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/Vietnam-Phu-Quoc-Water-Park-copyright-free.-400x300.jpeg 400w, http:\/\/pulseonline.co\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/Vietnam-Phu-Quoc-Water-Park-copyright-free..jpeg 1600w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 359px) 100vw, 359px\" \/><\/a><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"color: #0000ff;\"><strong>Located on Vietnam\u2019s Hon Thom islet<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: justify;\">Aquatopia is the latest addition to the ever-growing number of tourist attractions on and off Phu Quoc, Vietnam\u2019s largest island. Situated on the islet of Hon Thom the waterpark has 20 modern water features divided over six themed zones. Spanning eight hectares it is said to be the largest waterpark in South-East Asia to date.<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: justify;\">To reach this soon-to-open family-focus destination travellers have to take a 15-minute cable car ride between the two islands.<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/td>\n<td width=\"50%\">\n<table width=\"100%\">\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td>\n<h2>Deluxe beach villas off Krabi<\/h2>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>\u00a0<a href=\"http:\/\/pulseonline.co\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/Malaysia-EnO-Penang-Heritage-Wing-copyright-to-EO-Penang.jpeg\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\" wp-image-12055 aligncenter\" src=\"http:\/\/pulseonline.co\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/Malaysia-EnO-Penang-Heritage-Wing-copyright-to-EO-Penang-300x200.jpeg\" alt=\"Malaysia - EnO Penang Heritage Wing (copyright to E&amp;O Penang\" width=\"369\" height=\"246\" srcset=\"http:\/\/pulseonline.co\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/Malaysia-EnO-Penang-Heritage-Wing-copyright-to-EO-Penang-300x200.jpeg 300w, http:\/\/pulseonline.co\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/Malaysia-EnO-Penang-Heritage-Wing-copyright-to-EO-Penang-1024x682.jpeg 1024w, http:\/\/pulseonline.co\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/Malaysia-EnO-Penang-Heritage-Wing-copyright-to-EO-Penang-960x640.jpeg 960w, http:\/\/pulseonline.co\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/Malaysia-EnO-Penang-Heritage-Wing-copyright-to-EO-Penang-450x300.jpeg 450w, http:\/\/pulseonline.co\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/Malaysia-EnO-Penang-Heritage-Wing-copyright-to-EO-Penang.jpeg 1600w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 369px) 100vw, 369px\" \/><\/a><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"color: #0000ff;\"><strong>Sustainable resort on tranquil Koh Jum<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: justify;\">Koh Jum Beach Villas\u2019 opening is set to bring forward a new stream of ecologically responsible resorts between Krabi and Phuket in Thailand.<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: justify;\">A new destination for rest-seekers, Koh Jum Beach Villas is located off the Krabi coastline with views over Phi Phi National Marine Park. The 15 luxury villas have direct access to the 700-metre-long beach. Due to its location the resort\u2019s management has implemented various sustainable measures in operating on this pristine island.<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<table width=\"100%\">\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td width=\"50%\">\n<table width=\"100%\">\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td>\n<h2>E&amp;O Penang reopens Wing<\/h2>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>\n<p><figure id=\"attachment_12055\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-12055\" style=\"width: 374px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"http:\/\/pulseonline.co\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/Malaysia-EnO-Penang-Heritage-Wing-copyright-to-EO-Penang.jpeg\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"wp-image-12055\" src=\"http:\/\/pulseonline.co\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/Malaysia-EnO-Penang-Heritage-Wing-copyright-to-EO-Penang-300x200.jpeg\" alt=\"Malaysia - EnO Penang Heritage Wing (copyright to E&amp;O Penang\" width=\"374\" height=\"249\" srcset=\"http:\/\/pulseonline.co\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/Malaysia-EnO-Penang-Heritage-Wing-copyright-to-EO-Penang-300x200.jpeg 300w, http:\/\/pulseonline.co\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/Malaysia-EnO-Penang-Heritage-Wing-copyright-to-EO-Penang-1024x682.jpeg 1024w, http:\/\/pulseonline.co\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/Malaysia-EnO-Penang-Heritage-Wing-copyright-to-EO-Penang-960x640.jpeg 960w, http:\/\/pulseonline.co\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/Malaysia-EnO-Penang-Heritage-Wing-copyright-to-EO-Penang-450x300.jpeg 450w, http:\/\/pulseonline.co\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/Malaysia-EnO-Penang-Heritage-Wing-copyright-to-EO-Penang.jpeg 1600w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 374px) 100vw, 374px\" \/><\/a><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-12055\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Photo credit E &amp; O Penang<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"color: #0000ff;\"><strong>Upgraded suites with deluxe amenities<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: justify;\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\">The Eastern &amp; Oriental Penang (E&amp;O), one of the leading historical properties in South-East Asia and in Malaysia, has re-opened its iconic Heritage Wing on completion of an extensive rejuvenation project.<\/span><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: justify;\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\"> The heritage all-suite hotel, located along George Town\u2019s seafront, has put its 232 keys back into the inventory. Guests at the refreshed suites enjoy round-the-clock butler service and luxurious modern comforts amid the elegance and legacy of the hotel, which opened in 1885.<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/td>\n<td width=\"50%\">\n<table width=\"100%\">\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td>\n<h2>Elephant Coach Heritage Night<\/h2>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>\u00a0<a href=\"http:\/\/pulseonline.co\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/Myanmar-Heritage-night-and-Heritage-bar-hoppin\u2026phant-Coach.jpeg\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-12056\" src=\"http:\/\/pulseonline.co\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/Myanmar-Heritage-night-and-Heritage-bar-hoppin\u2026phant-Coach-300x200.jpeg\" alt=\"Myanmar - Heritage night and Heritage bar hoppin\u2026phant Coach)\" width=\"379\" height=\"253\" srcset=\"http:\/\/pulseonline.co\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/Myanmar-Heritage-night-and-Heritage-bar-hoppin\u2026phant-Coach-300x200.jpeg 300w, http:\/\/pulseonline.co\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/Myanmar-Heritage-night-and-Heritage-bar-hoppin\u2026phant-Coach-1024x683.jpeg 1024w, http:\/\/pulseonline.co\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/Myanmar-Heritage-night-and-Heritage-bar-hoppin\u2026phant-Coach-960x640.jpeg 960w, http:\/\/pulseonline.co\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/Myanmar-Heritage-night-and-Heritage-bar-hoppin\u2026phant-Coach-450x300.jpeg 450w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 379px) 100vw, 379px\" \/><\/a><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"color: #0000ff;\"><strong>Exclusive evening tour in Yangon<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: justify;\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\">Discover Yangon in a unique way \u2014\u00a0 on board a post-colonial Chevrolet passenger bus with the Elephant Coach\u2019s new fun-filled heritage evening programme through the city.<\/span><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: justify;\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\"> The four-hour \u201cHeritage Night and Heritage Bar Hopping in Yangon\u201d, which runs until 31 March 2020 on private basis only, takes guests to some of the city\u2019s notable landmarks on one of the meticulously restored antique Elephant Coaches (maximum eight seats). The tour starts at 7pm with English-speaking guides.<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<table width=\"100%\">\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td width=\"50%\">\n<table width=\"100%\">\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td>\n<h2>Teak wood cruise in Bangkok<\/h2>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>\n<p><figure id=\"attachment_12062\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-12062\" style=\"width: 395px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"http:\/\/pulseonline.co\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/Thailand-Pruek-Cruise-Copyright-to-Pruek-Cruise.jpeg\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"wp-image-12062\" src=\"http:\/\/pulseonline.co\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/Thailand-Pruek-Cruise-Copyright-to-Pruek-Cruise-300x200.jpeg\" alt=\"Thailand - Pruek Cruise (Copyright to Pruek Cruise)\" width=\"395\" height=\"263\" srcset=\"http:\/\/pulseonline.co\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/Thailand-Pruek-Cruise-Copyright-to-Pruek-Cruise-300x200.jpeg 300w, http:\/\/pulseonline.co\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/Thailand-Pruek-Cruise-Copyright-to-Pruek-Cruise-1024x682.jpeg 1024w, http:\/\/pulseonline.co\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/Thailand-Pruek-Cruise-Copyright-to-Pruek-Cruise-960x640.jpeg 960w, http:\/\/pulseonline.co\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/Thailand-Pruek-Cruise-Copyright-to-Pruek-Cruise-450x300.jpeg 450w, http:\/\/pulseonline.co\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/Thailand-Pruek-Cruise-Copyright-to-Pruek-Cruise.jpeg 1600w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 395px) 100vw, 395px\" \/><\/a><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-12062\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Photo credit Pruek Cruise<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"color: #0000ff;\"><strong>Luxury sailing on the Chao Phraya<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: justify;\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\">A new teak wood cruise vessel has officially set sail on the Chao Phraya River in Thailand\u2019s capital Bangkok.<\/span><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: justify;\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\"> Pruek Cruise prides itself as \u201cthe highest of its kind\u201d on the Chao Phraya, and has an evening fine-dining cruise that gives guests unparalleled views of Bangkok\u2019s glistering skyline. It also offers spaces for meetings, events and incentives.<\/span><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: justify;\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\"> Embarkation and disembarkation for the cruise is at the ICONSIAM shopping centre.<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/td>\n<td width=\"50%\">\n<table width=\"100%\">\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td>\n<h2>A Pullman hotel for Mandalay<\/h2>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>\n<p><figure id=\"attachment_12057\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-12057\" style=\"width: 400px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"http:\/\/pulseonline.co\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/Myanmar-Pullman-Mandalay-Mingalar-copyright-\u2026n-Mandalay.jpeg\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"wp-image-12057\" src=\"http:\/\/pulseonline.co\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/Myanmar-Pullman-Mandalay-Mingalar-copyright-\u2026n-Mandalay-300x225.jpeg\" alt=\"Myanmar - Pullman Mandalay Mingalar (copyright \u2026n Mandalay)\" width=\"400\" height=\"299\" srcset=\"http:\/\/pulseonline.co\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/Myanmar-Pullman-Mandalay-Mingalar-copyright-\u2026n-Mandalay-300x225.jpeg 300w, http:\/\/pulseonline.co\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/Myanmar-Pullman-Mandalay-Mingalar-copyright-\u2026n-Mandalay-1024x768.jpeg 1024w, http:\/\/pulseonline.co\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/Myanmar-Pullman-Mandalay-Mingalar-copyright-\u2026n-Mandalay-400x300.jpeg 400w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 400px) 100vw, 400px\" \/><\/a><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-12057\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Photo credit Mandalay Mingalar<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"color: #0000ff;\"><strong>Accor\u2019s deluxe brand debuts in Myanmar<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: justify;\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\">Pullman Mandalay Mingalar recently opened its doors in Mandalay, the second largest city in Myanmar and a leading tourism destination. This is the second property for the French hospitality group, as it has taken over the Mandalay Hill Hotel management.<\/span><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: justify;\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\"> The new high-end international\u00a0 hotel is located in the heart of Mandalay. It features 358 rooms and suites, an all-day restaurant, bars, whiskey and cigar lounge, a 650sqm ballroom, meeting spaces, swimming pool and spa.<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0000ff;\"><strong>Product Updates<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n<table width=\"100%\">\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td>\n<table width=\"100%\">\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"color: #0000ff;\"><strong>Heritage cruising along the Mekong on the Anouvong<\/strong><\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>\n<table width=\"100%\">\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td>\n<table>\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td>\u00a0<a href=\"http:\/\/pulseonline.co\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/GPtdPNJA.jpeg\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-12052\" src=\"http:\/\/pulseonline.co\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/GPtdPNJA-300x177.jpeg\" alt=\"GPtdPNJA\" width=\"465\" height=\"276\" \/><\/a><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<table width=\"73%\">\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td>\n<p style=\"text-align: justify;\">Asian Trails Laos has developed new Mekong cruising programmes in collaboration with Anouvong Cruises, one of the country\u2019s leading river cruise operators.<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: justify;\">Set to sail by September 2020, the Laotian-French cruise vessel Anouvong offers eight spacious state rooms and two luxury suites. All are equipped with amenities for a comfortable stay and feature floor-to-ceiling windows, elegant French balconies or a private terrace overlooking the verdant scenery along the Mekong River.<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: justify;\">Our office in Laos offers river-based journeys on the Anouvong, ranging from three to 10 days. Embarkation options are from Vientiane, Houayxay and Luang Prabang.<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<table width=\"100%\">\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td>\n<table width=\"100%\">\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"color: #0000ff;\"><strong>Angkor elephants find new sanctuary in Kulen Elephant Forest<\/strong><\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>\n<table width=\"100%\">\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td>\n<table>\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td>\n<p><figure id=\"attachment_12049\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-12049\" style=\"width: 465px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"http:\/\/pulseonline.co\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/Cambodia-Kulen-Elephant-Sanctuary-copyright-to\u2026nt-Sanctuary.jpg\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"wp-image-12049\" src=\"http:\/\/pulseonline.co\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/Cambodia-Kulen-Elephant-Sanctuary-copyright-to\u2026nt-Sanctuary-300x200.jpg\" alt=\"Cambodia - Kulen Elephant Sanctuary (copyright to\u2026nt Sanctuary)\" width=\"465\" height=\"310\" srcset=\"http:\/\/pulseonline.co\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/Cambodia-Kulen-Elephant-Sanctuary-copyright-to\u2026nt-Sanctuary-300x200.jpg 300w, http:\/\/pulseonline.co\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/Cambodia-Kulen-Elephant-Sanctuary-copyright-to\u2026nt-Sanctuary-1024x683.jpg 1024w, http:\/\/pulseonline.co\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/Cambodia-Kulen-Elephant-Sanctuary-copyright-to\u2026nt-Sanctuary-960x640.jpg 960w, http:\/\/pulseonline.co\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/Cambodia-Kulen-Elephant-Sanctuary-copyright-to\u2026nt-Sanctuary-450x300.jpg 450w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 465px) 100vw, 465px\" \/><\/a><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-12049\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Photo credit Kulen Elephant Sanctuary<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<table width=\"73%\">\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td>\n<p style=\"text-align: justify;\">Following the news of the permanent seizure of elephant rides at and inside Angkor Archaeological Park in northern Cambodia last year, the embattled elephant population has been transferred to a new retirement home. The sanctuary is located in a conservation area at the foothills of Phnom Kulen Mountain in central Cambodia, about an hour\u2019s drive from Siem Reap.<\/p>\n<p>A new sustainable attraction has been created at the sanctuary called Kulen Elephant Forest where visitors are allowed to see these gentle giants roaming freely in a natural habitat. There are half- and full-day tours to this new attraction.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<table width=\"100%\">\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td>\n<table width=\"100%\">\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"color: #0000ff;\"><strong>Organic farming at Suan Sampran outside Bangkok<\/strong><\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>\n<table width=\"100%\">\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td>\n<table>\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td>\u00a0<a href=\"http:\/\/pulseonline.co\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/Thailand-Patom-Organic-Farm-copyright-free.jpeg\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-12061\" src=\"http:\/\/pulseonline.co\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/Thailand-Patom-Organic-Farm-copyright-free-300x200.jpeg\" alt=\"Thailand - Patom Organic Farm (copyright free)\" width=\"439\" height=\"292\" srcset=\"http:\/\/pulseonline.co\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/Thailand-Patom-Organic-Farm-copyright-free-300x200.jpeg 300w, http:\/\/pulseonline.co\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/Thailand-Patom-Organic-Farm-copyright-free-1024x682.jpeg 1024w, http:\/\/pulseonline.co\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/Thailand-Patom-Organic-Farm-copyright-free-960x640.jpeg 960w, http:\/\/pulseonline.co\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/Thailand-Patom-Organic-Farm-copyright-free-450x300.jpeg 450w, http:\/\/pulseonline.co\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/Thailand-Patom-Organic-Farm-copyright-free.jpeg 1600w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 439px) 100vw, 439px\" \/><\/a><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<table width=\"73%\">\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td>\n<p style=\"text-align: justify;\">Asian Trails Thailand has a new full-day organic farming programme in Nakhon Pathom province, approximately 40 kilometres west of Bangkok.<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: justify;\">The programme at the Patom Organic Farm in Suan Sampran was devised\u00a0 in collaboration with local experts in the art of organic farming and following international standards. It blends a full day of learning about responsible agriculture trends in Thailand.<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: justify;\">Guests take part in planting, harvesting and fertilising fruits, herbs and vegetables without the use of chemicals at the 12-acre farm, and attend a herbal workshop. Included is a well-balanced organic lunch with <em>Khanom Krok<\/em> (coconut rice pancakes\/Thai coconut pudding).<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<table width=\"100%\">\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td>\n<table width=\"100%\">\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"color: #0000ff;\"><strong>Cruising on one of Hong Kong\u2019s last Chinese junks<\/strong><\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>\n<table width=\"100%\">\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td>\n<table>\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td>\u00a0<a href=\"http:\/\/pulseonline.co\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/NeuHMOsg.jpeg\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-12058\" src=\"http:\/\/pulseonline.co\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/NeuHMOsg.jpeg\" alt=\"NeuHMOsg\" width=\"352\" height=\"293\" \/><\/a><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<table width=\"73%\">\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td>\n<p style=\"text-align: justify;\"><span style=\"color: #003300;\">The <em>Aqua Luna<\/em>, one of Hong Kong\u2019s last remaining traditional and functioning Chinese junks, is popular for cruising to see the island\u2019s famous skyline. Constructed using traditional shipbuilding methods the red-sailed junk, known in Cantonese as Cheung Po Tsai, is named after the infamous 19th century pirate who used to terrorise the waters.<\/span><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: justify;\"><span style=\"color: #003300;\"> After boarding at Central or Tsim Sha Shui guests take in the sights and sounds of Victoria Harbour while enjoying cocktails on board. Drop off at the fishermen village of Lei Yue Mun to explore traditional seafood markets and enjoy seafood dinner before returning to Hong Kong.<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<table width=\"100%\">\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td>\n<table width=\"100%\">\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"color: #0000ff;\"><strong>Tantalising Laotian cuisine at La Sala Restaurant<\/strong><\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>\n<table width=\"100%\">\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td>\n<table>\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td>\n<p><figure id=\"attachment_12054\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-12054\" style=\"width: 497px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"http:\/\/pulseonline.co\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/Laos-La-Sala-Restaurant_Residence-Bassac-copyri\u2026ence-Bassac..jpeg\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"wp-image-12054\" src=\"http:\/\/pulseonline.co\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/Laos-La-Sala-Restaurant_Residence-Bassac-copyri\u2026ence-Bassac.-300x200.jpeg\" alt=\"Laos - La Sala Restaurant_Residence Bassac (copyri\u2026ence Bassac).\" width=\"497\" height=\"331\" srcset=\"http:\/\/pulseonline.co\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/Laos-La-Sala-Restaurant_Residence-Bassac-copyri\u2026ence-Bassac.-300x200.jpeg 300w, http:\/\/pulseonline.co\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/Laos-La-Sala-Restaurant_Residence-Bassac-copyri\u2026ence-Bassac.-1024x683.jpeg 1024w, http:\/\/pulseonline.co\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/Laos-La-Sala-Restaurant_Residence-Bassac-copyri\u2026ence-Bassac.-960x640.jpeg 960w, http:\/\/pulseonline.co\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/Laos-La-Sala-Restaurant_Residence-Bassac-copyri\u2026ence-Bassac.-449x300.jpeg 449w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 497px) 100vw, 497px\" \/><\/a><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-12054\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Photo credit Residence Bassac<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<table width=\"73%\">\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td>\n<p style=\"text-align: justify;\"><span style=\"color: #003300;\">Located on the premises of Champasak\u2019s Residence Bassac, La Sala Restaurant is one of the finest dining establishments in the southern part of Laos. Its location overlooking the Mekong River is one of its strongest features, alongside the kitchen team\u2019s ability to perfectly blend Laotian cuisine with Mediterranean flavours.<\/span><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: justify;\"><span style=\"color: #003300;\"> In line with keeping its menu fresh and invigorating the restaurant\u2019s management has introduced exclusive lunch and dinner options (for up to 10 guests) with the theme \u2018Lao Discovery Cuisine\u2019. The menu comprises aperitifs, appetisers and Lao dishes with a fresh look, attended by private butlers inside a cosy setting.<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<table width=\"100%\">\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td>\n<table width=\"100%\">\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"color: #0000ff;\"><strong>Khmer puppet workshops now available in Phnom Penh<\/strong><\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>\n<table width=\"100%\">\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td>\n<table>\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td>\n<p><figure id=\"attachment_12048\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-12048\" style=\"width: 472px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"http:\/\/pulseonline.co\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/Cambodia-Koh-Thlok-copyright-to-Koh-Thlok-Theatre.jpeg\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"wp-image-12048\" src=\"http:\/\/pulseonline.co\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/Cambodia-Koh-Thlok-copyright-to-Koh-Thlok-Theatre-300x143.jpeg\" alt=\"Cambodia - Koh Thlok (copyright to Koh Thlok Theatre)\" width=\"472\" height=\"225\" srcset=\"http:\/\/pulseonline.co\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/Cambodia-Koh-Thlok-copyright-to-Koh-Thlok-Theatre-300x143.jpeg 300w, http:\/\/pulseonline.co\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/Cambodia-Koh-Thlok-copyright-to-Koh-Thlok-Theatre-1024x489.jpeg 1024w, http:\/\/pulseonline.co\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/Cambodia-Koh-Thlok-copyright-to-Koh-Thlok-Theatre-600x286.jpeg 600w, http:\/\/pulseonline.co\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/Cambodia-Koh-Thlok-copyright-to-Koh-Thlok-Theatre.jpeg 1456w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 472px) 100vw, 472px\" \/><\/a><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-12048\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">photo credit Koh Thlok Theatre<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<table width=\"73%\">\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td>\n<p style=\"text-align: justify;\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\">The Kok Thlok Theatre, located on the grounds of Cambodia\u2019s national library in Phnom Penh, is famous as the venue for hosting regular performances of traditional Cambodian shadow puppetry since its inception. The theatre\u2019s proprietors have introduced a new initiative to bring the art of puppetry to the public through workshops.<\/span><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: justify;\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\"> Supervised by experienced Khmer puppet masters participants make their own puppet, learn more about the history of puppet play and gain insight into one of the oldest forms of Khmer performing art traditions dating back centuries. This is a novel way for visitors to explore Cambodia\u2019s cultural heritage.<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<table width=\"100%\">\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td>\n<table width=\"100%\">\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"color: #0000ff;\"><strong>Immersion in local Thai life at Mahasawat<\/strong><\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>\n<table width=\"100%\">\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td>\n<table>\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td>\u00a0<a href=\"http:\/\/pulseonline.co\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/Thailand-Mahasawat-Canal-Local-Experience-copyright-free.jpeg\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-12060\" src=\"http:\/\/pulseonline.co\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/Thailand-Mahasawat-Canal-Local-Experience-copyright-free-300x200.jpeg\" alt=\"Thailand - Mahasawat Canal Local Experience (copyright free)\" width=\"464\" height=\"309\" srcset=\"http:\/\/pulseonline.co\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/Thailand-Mahasawat-Canal-Local-Experience-copyright-free-300x200.jpeg 300w, http:\/\/pulseonline.co\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/Thailand-Mahasawat-Canal-Local-Experience-copyright-free-1024x682.jpeg 1024w, http:\/\/pulseonline.co\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/Thailand-Mahasawat-Canal-Local-Experience-copyright-free-960x640.jpeg 960w, http:\/\/pulseonline.co\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/Thailand-Mahasawat-Canal-Local-Experience-copyright-free-450x300.jpeg 450w, http:\/\/pulseonline.co\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/Thailand-Mahasawat-Canal-Local-Experience-copyright-free.jpeg 1600w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 464px) 100vw, 464px\" \/><\/a><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<table width=\"73%\">\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td>\n<p style=\"text-align: justify;\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\">Mahasawat, about 50 kilometres from the Thai capital of Bangkok and easily accessible by train, is criss-crossed by many canals and known for its authenticity, agro-tourism and rural landscape. The product team at Asian Trails has created a new programme in and around Mahasawat\u2019s canals.<\/span><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: justify;\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\"> Guests board the train from Bangkok\u2019s Thonburi railway station to Mahasawat to start the full day immersion in Thai life and local experiences. Travel along the canals and waterways is on long-tail boats. Visit local temples, watch the making of traditional handicraft and try the local cuisine before travelling back by train to Bangkok.<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<table width=\"100%\">\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td>\n<table width=\"100%\">\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"color: #0000ff;\"><strong>Beijing gaining fame as a culinary hotspot<\/strong><\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>\n<table width=\"100%\">\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td>\n<table>\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td>\n<p><figure id=\"attachment_12051\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-12051\" style=\"width: 469px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"http:\/\/pulseonline.co\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/China-Georg-China-copyright-to-Georg-China.jpg\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"wp-image-12051\" src=\"http:\/\/pulseonline.co\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/China-Georg-China-copyright-to-Georg-China-300x190.jpg\" alt=\"China - Georg China (copyright to Georg China)\" width=\"469\" height=\"297\" srcset=\"http:\/\/pulseonline.co\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/China-Georg-China-copyright-to-Georg-China-300x190.jpg 300w, http:\/\/pulseonline.co\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/China-Georg-China-copyright-to-Georg-China-1024x648.jpg 1024w, http:\/\/pulseonline.co\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/China-Georg-China-copyright-to-Georg-China-474x300.jpg 474w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 469px) 100vw, 469px\" \/><\/a><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-12051\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">photo credit Georg China<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<table width=\"73%\">\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td>\n<p style=\"text-align: justify;\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\">The rise of China as a destination for the culinary-minded has grown from strength to strength after leading restaurants in Beijing received a place in the acclaimed Michelin Guide.<\/span><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: justify;\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\"> Representatives of the internationally-known platform in rewarding restaurants for their outstanding cuisine and the team behind it have included Asian Trails China\u2019s favourites on the list such as The Georg, Dadong and Din Tai Fung. The list now comprises over 100 eateries in the Chinese capital with more to be expected to be included in the near future.<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><strong><span style=\"color: #ff0000;\">News Updates<\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n<table width=\"100%\">\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"color: #0000ff;\"><strong>Asian Trails Myanmar\u2019s visit to Yangon\u2019s Home of the Aged<\/strong><\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>\n<p style=\"text-align: justify;\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\">An annual tradition that has left a permanent place in the calendar of Asian Trails Myanmar is the visit to Yangon\u2019s Little Sisters of The Poor <a style=\"color: #000000;\" href=\"https:\/\/asiantrails.us13.list-manage.com\/track\/click?u=53b3f716dddb402770f86459e&amp;id=efff80d000&amp;e=55a666f575\">Home for The Aged<\/a>, a non-profit home run by Burmese nuns for the elderly.<\/span><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: justify;\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\"> The Asian Trails Myanmar team made its yearly visit to the home before Christmas 2019 to share the joy of giving and donate much-needed items to the residents. There were singing of carols and merry-making, filling the home\u2019s hall with smiles and providing unforgettable moments to Myanmar\u2019s senior citizens.<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<table width=\"100%\">\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"color: #0000ff;\"><strong>Upper part of Angkor\u2019s Bayon Temple closed for renovation<\/strong><\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>\n<p style=\"text-align: justify;\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\">Effective immediately and until further notice, the upper tiers of the iconic <a style=\"color: #000000;\" href=\"https:\/\/asiantrails.us13.list-manage.com\/track\/click?u=53b3f716dddb402770f86459e&amp;id=dd2b3cb046&amp;e=55a666f575\">Bayon Temple<\/a> at Angkor in Cambodia are closed to visitors as part of a major renovation project to restore some of the towers. The centre of the former Kingdom of Angkor Thom, the Bayon is famous for its 216 serene, smiling faces depicting the faces of Jayavarman VII (1122-1218 ) who was King of the Khmer Empire from 1181\u20131218.<\/span><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: justify;\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\"> The large scale project affects the top two tiers (tiers three and four) of the Bayon with the lower tiers still showing the widely-known stone faces. It is not known how long the renovation works will last.<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<table width=\"100%\">\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"color: #0000ff;\"><strong>Vietnam ready to welcome the Year of the Rat <\/strong><\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>\n<p style=\"text-align: justify;\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\">Tet Nguyen Dan, commonly known as Tet or Vietnamese New Year, is the most important festival and holiday period in Vietnam. This year, the holiday will be from 24 to 31 January to usher in the \u2018<a style=\"color: #000000;\" href=\"https:\/\/asiantrails.us13.list-manage.com\/track\/click?u=53b3f716dddb402770f86459e&amp;id=564c69ff35&amp;e=55a666f575\">Year of the Rat<\/a>\u2019 on 25 January. Almost all offices, both government and in the private sector, will close during this period with work resuming on 3 February.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #000000;\"> The celebration of Tet differs every year as it follows the Lunar Calendar, and generally falls on the same day as Chinese New Year (25 January this year). The festival is a time for family reunions, visiting friends, giving lucky money to children and ancestor worship.<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<table width=\"100%\">\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"color: #0000ff;\"><strong>Johor Baru marks Lunar New Year with Chingay Street Parade<\/strong><\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>\n<p style=\"text-align: justify;\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\">The Johor Chingay Street Parade has been an annual tradition of the Johor Old Temple since 1800s. Held to celebrate the Lunar New Year, it will be held on 25 February this year to mark the \u2018Year of the Rat\u2019 that starts on 25 January.<\/span><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: justify;\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\"> This spectacular event, declared a National Cultural Heritage in Malaysia in 2012, is a tourist attraction. A series of activities is held at the ancient temple as part of the celebrations. The parade starts in the eventing through the streets of Johor Baru featuring lion and dragon dancers, floats and deities carried on sedan chairs to bless the city with good luck and prosperity.<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<table width=\"100%\">\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"color: #0000ff;\"><strong>Balloons over Bagan celebrates 20 years of soaring over Myanmar<\/strong><\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>\n<p style=\"text-align: justify;\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><em>Balloons over Bagan<\/em> is celebrating 20 years of providing awe-inspiring flights over this UNESCO World Heritage site. Launched on 13 December 1999 under the management of the Memories Group, it was the first company to operate hot-air balloon flights in Bagan. The company has since expanded its operations to Inle Lake, Pindaya and Loikaw providing the same quality standards.<\/span><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: justify;\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\"> Asian Trails Myanmar congratulates the company on its 20th anniversary. We are proud to be a partner in providing this great experience to visitors to the country. We wish the company, its team and owners all the best in continuing its legacy of soaring over Myanmar.<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<table width=\"100%\">\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"color: #0000ff;\"><strong>Laos phases out VoA at nine international check points<\/strong><\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>\n<p style=\"text-align: justify;\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\">The Laotian government has announced it will gradually revoke the granting of Visa on Arrival (VoA) at nine international cross-border check points by 30 June 2020. The immigrations points mentioned in the statement are excluded from the immigration list from 31 December 2019 onwards.<\/span><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: justify;\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\"> Check points where VoA will not be accepted are at Panghok, Nam Soi and Nam Nguen from 31 December 2019; Nam Kan, the Friendship Bridge of Namheuang and Savannakhet International Airport from 31 March 2020; and Nam Phao, Phou Keua and Na Phao from 30 June 2020.<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<table width=\"100%\">\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"color: #0000ff;\"><strong>Three Myanmar cities receive Asean Clean Tourist City awards <\/strong><\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>\n<p style=\"text-align: justify;\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\">Shan State\u2019s Taunggyi, Kayah State\u2019s Loikaw and Tanintharyi Region\u2019s Dawei in Myanmar have won Asean Clean Tourist City Standard award for 2019. The award is in recognition of the local municipality\u2019s efforts to beautify the cities, operate sustainably and provide a working tourism infrastructure. These cities followed in the footsteps of their three counterparts \u2013 Kalaw, Bagan, Pyin Oo Lwin \u2013 which received the same award in 2018.<\/span><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: justify;\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\"> The award is a regional initiative by leading tourism associations and governments that assess South-East Asian cities on seven criteria: environmental management; cleanliness; waste management; awareness-building about environmental protection and cleanliness; green spaces; health and safety and urban safety and security; and tourism infrastructure.<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<table width=\"100%\">\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"color: #0000ff;\"><strong>Vietnam extends 15-day visa exemption for eight countries<\/strong><\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>\n<p style=\"text-align: justify;\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\">Tourism operators in Vietnam welcomed the decision by the Vietnamese government to extend the 15-day visa-free stays for citizens of Belarus, Denmark, Finland, Japan, Norway, Russia, South Korea and Sweden for another three years. The extended regulation is valid until 31 December 2022. Travellers from these eight countries have enjoyed visa exemption since 2015, but it expired at the end of 2019.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #000000;\"> Nationals of the other countries on the visa exemption list are permitted to use the facility until June 2021. They are allowed a single entry for stay of up to 15 days with a waiting period of one month in between entries for re-entry to the country.<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<table width=\"100%\">\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"color: #0000ff;\"><strong>Malaysia\u2019s Murut community celebrates Kalimantan Festival <\/strong><\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>\n<p style=\"text-align: justify;\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\">Parts of Borneo will host the annual Kalimantan Festival, known locally as Pesta Kalimantan, on 31 March 2020. This primarily cultural and art festival is organised to commemorate and protect the ethnic diversity of the Murut community, the largest ethnic group in Malaysian Borneo. The six-day festival will feature activities, exhibitions, competitions and parades related to the rich Murut culture.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #000000;\"> Asian Trails Malaysia foresees receiving notifications of shortage of accommodation to house guests during this time.<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<table width=\"100%\">\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"color: #0000ff;\"><strong>Indonesia\u2019s office supports Yogyakarta school for the disabled<\/strong><\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>\n<p style=\"text-align: justify;\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\">As part of its corporate social responsibility (CSR) Asian Trails Indonesia recently revisited the SLB Sekar Teratai school in Yogyakarta to continue supporting the school with much-needed material and assist in maintaining the school\u2019s overall condition. This elementary school is giving disabled students the chance to get an education and the support needed that cannot be provided at a \u2018normal\u2019 school.<\/span><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: justify;\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\"> Since 2015, Asian Trails Indonesia has graciously donated time, money and material to keep the school in good condition. Continuing the CSR work in 2019, the team donated a new parking area (roof and floor) after completing renovation of the classrooms and toilet over the course of four years.<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Dear friends and business partners, 20 years of Asian Trails, followed by the arrival of 2020, mark the dawn of a new decade and an affirmation of solidifying our name for blazing new paths in travel since our inception. It has been a challenging year where you, our clients, have continued to take centre stage&#8230; <\/p>\n<div class=\"link-more\"><a href=\"http:\/\/pulseonline.co\/index.php\/bar-and-speakeasy-hopping-in-asia\/\">Read More<\/a><\/div>\n","protected":false},"author":16,"featured_media":0,"parent":0,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"http:\/\/pulseonline.co\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/12047"}],"collection":[{"href":"http:\/\/pulseonline.co\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"http:\/\/pulseonline.co\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"http:\/\/pulseonline.co\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/16"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"http:\/\/pulseonline.co\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=12047"}],"version-history":[{"count":11,"href":"http:\/\/pulseonline.co\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/12047\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":12259,"href":"http:\/\/pulseonline.co\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/12047\/revisions\/12259"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"http:\/\/pulseonline.co\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=12047"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}