Cultural Treasures: Central Java, Cambodia, China, Myanmar, Laos, Sri Lanka & India

Cambodia From the breathtaking temples of Angkor Wat in Siem Reap, to the museums of Phnom Penh recounting this mesmerising country's heartbreaking history, Cambodia - and its resilient people - is sure to touch your heart. Stay: Raffles Hotel Le Royal (www.raffles.com) for the ultimate in luxury, or the stylish Hôtel de la Paix (www.hoteldelapaixangkor.com). Contact: www.tourismcambodia.com

Central Java Explore the mystic temples of Borobudur and be entranced by the simple lifestyle and stunning scenery of Indonesia's true heart. Stay: Amanjiwo (www.amanresorts.com) or MesaStila (www.losaricoffeeplantation.com). Contact: www.borobudurpark.com

China Travel to Beijing and visit the Great Wall, the Forbidden City - the world's largest imperial palace complex - and "old Beijing's" many teahouses and temples. Stay: Hotel G (www.hotel-g.com) and The Emperor (www.designhotels.com/theemperor). Contact: www.travelchinaguide.com

India An amazing blend of sights, colours, scents and sounds, India overwhelms the senses. Visit Agra to take in the Taj Mahal - a wonder to behold. Goa may not only be party-central by night, but also houses traditional Portuguese-style architecture and numerous beautiful cathedrals. Stay: Grand Hyatt (www.grandhyatt.com) and Amarvilas (www.amarvilas.com).

     Discover Kerala, India, with Insight Vacations, the leading premium and luxury tour operator. From Kochi to Thekkady, Kumarakom to Kovalam, be escorted by experienced local tour directors throughout your smooth and hassle-free journey onboard luxury coaches, so the journey is as enjoyable as the destination. Your itinerary at Kochi allows you to explore the Willingdon Island, enjoy the sea view from your room or take a stroll along its shores. The experience heightens with highlights such as local exotic dining experiences, a cooking demonstration with a Syrian Christian family, enjoying Kerala's picturesque backwaters in a houseboat and absorbing the rich cultural heritage at Napier Museum. Such experiential activities and authentic local feasts give you a unique and revealing look into the history and culture of each destination you visit. And besides sightseeing you'll also be staying in premium hotels and deluxe historic palaces! Choose from the eight-day Essence of India tour, starting at US$2,365, the 10-day Enchanting Kerala tour from US$2,925 or the 10-day Splendours of the Taj & Tiger Insight Gold tour priced from US$ 6,825, where you'll travel in style and in the lap of luxury. All prices are for land tours only and based on twin-share rooming. Airfare is not included. Contact: Tel: 6338 7338, www.insightvacations.com Email: info@insightvacations.com.sg

Laos Perhaps one of Asia's best-kept secrets, Laos presents stunning natural landscapes and Luang Prabang, a UNESCO World Heritage city of temples and French provincial architecture surrounded by mountains and located 700 metres above sea level. Stay: Maison Souvannaphoum Hotel (www.angsana.com), La Residence Phou Vao (www.residencephouvao.com)

Myanmar The distinctive stupas of Bagan are located beside the Ayeyarwady (Irrawaddy) River on Myanmar's central plain and are a spectacular sight in dawn light. With 5,000 ruins and literally hundreds of grand temples, many of which have been restored, Myanmar is an unforgettable destination. Stay: The Strand Yangon (www.ghmluxuryhotels.com) or Traders Hotel Yangon (223 Sule Pagoda Rd. Pabedan Township). Contact: www.myanmar-tourism.com

Sri Lanka Discover a stunning range of cultural, coastal and adventurous getaways. Visit Galle, home to a Dutch port and gathering point for nearby beach resort villages. Then head to Kandy, the spiritual heart of the country and home to "the tooth of Buddha". Stay: Galle Fort Hotel (www.galleforthotel.com) or The Sun House (www.thesunhouse.com). Contact: www.srilankatourism.org


Posted May 2012