Laos: a Hidden Gem for Business and Leisure Travel

Laos is well-known for its steep mountains, lush jungles, and winding rivers, yet the only landlocked nation in Southeast Asia also boasts ancient temples, stunning caves, and the bustling capital city of Vientiane. With some of the most pristine landscape in Asia, even the world, along with a unique blend of cultures both modern and ancient, Laos is the perfect getaway for adventure and exploration. The hills of Laos are perfect for a secluded escape into the jungle or along the river.

On May, 9 2022, Laos dropped all requirements for arrival testing and quarantine, and only requires either proof of vaccination or negative test results. Submitting either through the LAO KYC App will give you a QR code to act as your all-access pass to bypass COVID requirements inside Laos. Laos is now completely reopened, welcoming tourists from around the world. At Asia Bespoke Tours, our destination management company develops customized travel packages to get the very best out of your stay. Our familiarity with all the sights in Laos is unique; we know Laos better than any other national or international player, and specialize in providing unmatched service along the way.

Stunning Attractions:

Kuang Si Falls
Just outside of Luang Prabang, Kuang Si Falls boasts pristine beauty in the middle of the rainforest. The sixty-meter waterfall is surrounded by tranquil swimming holes, some of which are sacred and revered. Also nearby is the Tat Kuang Si Bear Rescue Center, one of the best places in the world to see the Asiatic black bear.

Luang Prabang, UNESCO Heritage Site
The historic center of Luang Prabang is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and is acknowledged as one of the best preserved examples of the mixing of traditional Asian and colonial European cultures in the world.

Pha That Luang
The national symbol of Laos, Pha That Luang captures the culture of Laos in one of the most recognizable religious monuments in the world. The gold Stupa itself has been destroyed and rebuilt countless times since its construction in the third century, but today boasts ornate carvings and gold trim, the very best of Laotian culture.

Khone Phapheng waterfall
The widest waterfall in the world, at almost seven miles, nearly seven kilometers, wide, the area of Khone falls is also known as Si Phan Don, or ‘the 4,000 islands’. These strong falls are the main reason that the Mekong cannot be navigated into China, and are also home to the largest freshwater fish in the world, the Plabuck catfish.

Elephant Sanctuaries, Luang Prabang

One of the best places in the world to see Asian elephants is Luang Prabang – with numerous elephant sanctuaries dotting the hills surrounding the city. Feed, bathe, and swim with Asian elephants in their natural habitat

Wat Phou
Originally associated with the Khmer empire and the Hindu faith, Wat Phou has been a religious center since the fifth century, and continues to act as a Buddhist holy site today. Wat Phou is listed as a UNESCO heritage site for its unique blend of Khmer and Lao culture, and of Hindu and Buddhist religious symbols.
MICE Travel in Laos
Laos is one of the fastest-growing economies in the world and is experiencing a period of rapid growth, especially in the capital city of Vientiane. Laos is a young country that is rapidly industrializing and is becoming a premier destination for conferences and business events in the coming years. The remote resorts of Laos are also a perfect destination for retreats to refocus or incentives to give credit and appreciation to your top performers – all in the utmost luxury. At Asia Bespoke Tours, our destination management company is dedicated to providing the very best service including luxury villas, boutique hotel packages, door-to-door service, and day trips to sights throughout Laos.

Luxury Accommodations:

Amantaka, Luang Prabang
Resting at the foot of sacred Mount Phousi, surrounded by the ancient center city, Amantaka embraces the relaxed pace of the city. Cruise the Mekong River, spend the day at a local elephant sanctuary, learn more about local Buddhist customs, or embark on a holistic journey at the world-class spa. The gardens of Amantaka are an ideal retreat for any traveler.

La Residence Phou Vao, Luang Prabang
Resting atop a hill, with stunning views of the sacred mountains surrounding Luang Prabang, La Residence Phou Vao combines traditional Laotian culture with fine French influence for a serene haven of peace. The resort offers experiences from a traditional rice farming experience to cooking classes to river cruises, and more, along with fine dining and spas.

Rosewood Luang Prabang
Hidden in the lush jungles surrounding Luang Prabang, the Rosewood Resort is bisected by a river and features luxurious tented villas along with fine dining and journeys through the culture and the storied past of the ancient city including heritage walks, river cruises, and cooking classes.

La Seine Hotel Vientiane
Located in the charming downtown of the capital city, La Seine offers glimpses into the city’s history as both the seat of Laos’ royal family and the capital of French colonial rule. Beautiful Buddhist temples, remnants of French culture, and fine dining are all within reach from La Seine.

Laos is an exciting up-and-coming destination to explore, and there is no service offered that can match our team. We are laser-focused on bringing authentic experiences to groups coming to a destination for the first time, and we are excited about Laos re-launching itself as a meeting, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions (MICE) destination. Asia Bespoke Tours offers the most comprehensive service in finding you the perfect destination, booking, and getting your Laos experience started as quickly and easily as possible. To learn more about the custom luxury experiences offered by our expert destination management team, contact us or reach out directly today:

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Entering a New World: Exploring Sri Lanka and MICE travel

Compared to neighbors the Maldives, Sri Lanka is often overlooked as a luxury travel destination. However, this tropical island has an abundance to offer in terms of luxury travel. With its rich history and unspoiled beaches, Sri Lanka is a paradise for those looking for authenticity and culture on their vacation. If you are planning a vacation or corporate trip to this beautiful country and want to experience its unmatched luxury, Sri Lanka offers unique accommodation and adventure routes. At Asia Bespoke Tours, we have years of experience in curating luxury experiences in Sri Lanka, showing that it is possible to have the trip of a lifetime in this incredible paradise.

MICE & Sri Lanka

The volume of MICE travelers to the island nation of Sri Lanka has been steadily increasing over the years and is expected to rise in the years to come. The wide range of sites and activities available throughout the nation makes Sri Lanka an excellent candidate for MICE tourism. Sri Lanka boasts an array of diverse features and is easily reached due to the relatively compact size of the island.

On January 12, 2022, a webinar was held virtually in collaboration with the Sri Lanka Convention Bureau as part of the Economic Diplomacy measures carried out by the Sri Lankan Embassy in Indonesia to promote Sri Lanka as a MICE destination. During the one-and-a-half-hour session, 25 Indonesian travel agents participated and demonstrated a strong interest in Sri Lanka for MICE tourism.

In her opening remarks, Ambassador of Sri Lanka to Indonesia and ASEAN Yasoja Gunasekera emphasized that Sri Lanka is an ideal location for Indonesians to organize meetings, incentive travel, conventions, and events and emphasized the easy access available through direct flights to arrive towards a destination that offers such a rich diversity of experiences.

It should be emphasized that the MICE sector accounts for around 11% of all visitors to this island country. Significant MICE-related events have long taken place in Sri Lanka; this is due to the nation’s top-notch venues and amenities, which include ideal settings for sizable conferences and business training programs as well as scenic sights for incentives.

Sri Lanka offers facilities for corporate training programs and natural settings for exclusive incentives. There is a wide range of the very best luxury boutique hotels and villas for a unique experience and modern infrastructure to organize international conferences and events of all sizes making it exemplary for MICE-related travel.

The commercial capital of the nation, Colombo, is home to three exposition and conference centers with cutting-edge amenities that can accommodate sizeable conferences with up to 2,000 guests as well as sizable exhibitions. Sri Lanka has become known as one of the most affordable locations for such events in the conference and incentive sector.

Sri Lanka’s key strengths include an abundance of international luxury brand hotels, a strong hotel and hospitality infrastructure, favorable climate and a speedy online visa process.

Critical to meetings and incentive travel though is the luxury resorts and experiences. Sri Lanka is the most unique nation in the world for luxury experiences as there is a unique balance between culture, food, and high-quality luxury stays. Below we describe a few of these experiences.

Luxury Accommodation:

There is an abundance of luxury accommodation across the nation. A few examples of resorts that we work with consistently are below – they are safe, secluded, adults-only, and luxurious.

Sri Lanka is a country known for its rich cultural heritage and natural beauty, and there’s no better way to experience both than by staying at one of the country’s luxurious accommodations. One of the most notable options is Santani, the first and only purpose-built wellness resort in Sri Lanka. The name, which comes from the Sanskrit word for “in harmony with,” reflects the resort’s philosophy of helping guests achieve balance with nature and themselves. Set on a former tea plantation within a pristine forest, Santani offers a secluded and restorative destination spa with 18 rooms designed for natural ventilation and air-conditioning free. Guests can roam around the tropical jungle and fertile rice fields, practice yoga or meditate along the Hulu River, and receive effective wellness treatments without any artifice.

Another luxurious accommodation option in Sri Lanka is Anantara Kalutara, located only 10 minutes from the town of Kalutara and an hour south of the capital Colombo. With a unique setting between the Indian Ocean and Kalu River, the resort boasts coastal, river, and lagoon frontage, and all 141 guest rooms, suites, and pool villas immerse guests in stunning views. Private balconies and terraces overlook lush gardens, the ocean, or lagoon, and all guest rooms come with a wine humidor as standard. The resort has interconnecting, disabled, and poolside guest rooms available, and suites are set apart by an elegant lounge. The one-bedroom Presidential Suite boasts a private plunge pool and sundeck. The resort features two swimming pools, a fantastic spa, and a choice of three restaurants.

Shangri-La’s Hambantota Resort & Spa is another remarkable option for luxurious accommodation in Sri Lanka. Overlooking the southern coast of the country, the resort spans 53 hectares, making it the largest resort in Sri Lanka. It boasts 300 spacious rooms, including 21 suites, all surrounded by stunning tropical gardens. The resort is home to an 18-hole golf course, an expansive spa, and an artisan village that celebrates local arts and crafts. Visitors can explore Asia’s most fascinating nature sanctuaries, including the Yala and Bundala National Parks, and enjoy a mosaic of activities and unique curated expeditions to help absorb the diversity of the island at its best.

Cape Weligama is another resort with a remarkable history and stunning views. Situated on a singular promontory rising high above the Indian Ocean, Cape Weligama offers 39 private retreats designed by one of Asia’s most celebrated architects, Lek Bunnag. The hotel’s dining venues capture Weligama’s iconic sunsets, as does the large crescent-shaped infinity pool that appears to flow seamlessly into the shimmering sea. Guests can enjoy stunning panoramas and elegant swells unfurling onto the sun-kissed sand while experiencing trade winds that carried legendary explorers like Marco Polo, Ibn Battuta, and Fa-Hsien past Sri Lanka’s soaring southern cliffs on some of history’s most celebrated nautical journeys.

In summary, Sri Lanka offers a range of luxurious accommodations that allow guests to experience the country’s cultural heritage and natural beauty in unique and memorable ways. From Santani’s wellness-focused philosophy and secluded location to Anantara Kalutara’s unique setting between the Indian Ocean and Kalu River, Shangri-La’s Hambantota Resort & Spa’s natural beauty and wildlife, and Cape Weligama’s stunning views and history, each resort offers a distinctive and unforgettable experience for visitors seeking a luxurious and restful oasis in an amazing cultural country.

What to Explore in Sri Lanka?

Sri Lanka is home to eight UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Six are cultural and two are natural sites. This is more than most other Asian countries.

Cultural Natural

Explore rare animals and plants in the country’s many nature preserves. The most popular national park in Sri Lanka is Yala National Park, and it is easy to understand why. Yala was established as a wildlife refuge in 1900, and since then, it has gained a reputation for having an exceptional variety of wild species. Although there are many different animals at Yala, the elephants, leopards, and sloth bears continue to be the most well-known.

Visit the coastal city, Galle. The seaside city of Galle, which is 130 miles from Colombo, is known for its Dutch architecture, boutique hotels, and vintage shops. Visitors to this idyllic tropical hideaway in Sri Lanka can unwind on the area’s pristine beach or take advantage of the area’s diverse marine life.

Dambulla Cave temple. Visit the largest and best-preserved cave temple complex that towers 160 m over the surrounding plains in Sri Lanka.  There are 80 documented caves in the surrounding area with major attractions spread out across the caves including historical statues and paintings.

Sigiriya Rock Visit. Sri Lanka’s most iconic rock is a must-visit whether you were looking to climb the rock or just to enjoy the beautiful scenery surrounding it. Sigiriya Rock is climbed by thousands of tourists a year, combining their love for history and panoramic views.

The Train Ride from Colombo. A train ride from Colombo to Kandy and up into tea plantations is truly one delightful experience where one can picture the picturesque countryside in a classic journey.

Sri Lanka holds many cultures and is a destination famous for its warm hospitality, exotic fruits, dramatic beaches, lush deep green forests, hill-top hideaways and eight epic UNESCO sites all make it the ideal recipe for fun and luxury leisure. To learn more about custom luxury experiences offered by our expert destination management team reach out  to us at Asia BeSpoke and we will offer you with the best service to best match your needs.

 

Top 7 Romantic Experiences in Southeast Asia in 2023

Southeast Asia is a region known for its beautiful beaches, lush jungles, and vibrant cultures, making it the perfect destination for couples looking for a romantic getaway.

No matter what type of romantic destination you and your loved one have in mind – Southeast Asia’s got it covered! The region boasts some of the most beautiful spots on earth, no matter if you are a beach and chill, or adventure-loving couple.

At Asia Bespoke Tours, we offer customized luxury experiences for our clients to Southeast Asia’s most romantic destinations together. Combining our expertise and local relations we offer unique packages filled with activities hand selected for you. Whether it is a celebratory honeymoon, anniversary or a quick getaway trip, we take pride in planning and organizing unique romantic trips. From the shores of the Maldives to the mountains of Bali, here are our top 7 romantic experiences in Southeast Asia for 2023:

Sunset cruise in Halong Bay, Vietnam:

Halong Bay is a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its picturesque limestone islands and stunning sunsets. Couples can take a sunset cruise on a traditional Vietnamese boat and enjoy a romantic dinner while watching the sun dip below the horizon, creating a breathtaking view of the bay.

The cruise usually starts in the afternoon, allowing visitors to take in the stunning views of the limestone islands, enjoy the tranquility of the bay or participate in several activities from kayaking to snorkeling. Certain cruises offer overnight stays so the couple can take in the stars from the water and wake up to a peaceful serenity.

Hike Mount Batur in Bali, Indonesia:

This is a romantic sunrise like no else. A hike up Mount Batur, an active volcano located in Bali, will leave couples in awe as they take in colorful hues above the clouds. The hike starts early in the morning, but is all worth it to reach the summit for a private breakfast looking down upon the clouds, surrounded by mountain peaks and warm colors.

The trail is an experience in itself. Couples will hike through lush jungle slowly showing more and more panoramic views of the island of Bali, and on a clear day, visitors can see the neighboring islands of Lombok and Java. The trail is well-marked and guided tours are available, so visitors don’t have to worry about getting lost.

Hot air balloon ride in Luang Prabang, Laos:

Luang Prabang is a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its stunning landscapes and traditional architecture. The hot air balloon ride offers couples an opportunity to see the city and its surroundings from a different perspective.

As the balloon rises, couples will fly across the beautiful city landscape and the Mekong River, crossing over ancient temples, traditional houses, and lush jungles. The experience of floating above the city while taking in the stunning views of the landscape is a truly unforgettable shared experience.

Rides are typically one hour and start early in the morning, to take advantage of the cooler temperature and beautiful sunrise light.

The Royal Thai Couple's Ritual in Thailand:

This luxurious spa treatment is offered by many high-end spas throughout Thailand. The ritual focuses on providing couples with a more intimate and romantic spa experience. It’s the perfect way to escape the stress of everyday life and spend some quality time together while indulging in a luxurious spa treatment.

Starting with a Thai massage, a form of massage that combines acupressure, Indian Ayurvedic principles, and assisted yoga postures. This massage offers couples relaxation, improved circulation, and stress relief.

Following the massage, couples are treated to a milk bath, which is said to nourish and soften the skin. The milk bath is usually scented with essential oils or flowers, making it an aromatic and zen experience.

After the milk bath, couples take a flower petal shower to cleanse and refresh the skin. The shower is also scented with essential oils, and the petals used are typically roses or jasmine, which are said to have a soothing and calming effect on the body and mind.

 

Private hot-stone bath in Bhutan:

The hot-stone bath is a traditional Bhutanese spa treatment that involves immersing oneself in a bathtub filled with hot water and heated stones. The stones are believed to have healing properties and are said to help soothe aches and pains, improve circulation, and promote relaxation.

Couples can enjoy an intimate hot-stone bath together soaking in the warm water while relaxing and enjoying each other’s company. The treatment is usually accompanied by traditional Bhutanese music and scented with essential oils such as juniper, which are said to have a soothing and calming effect on the body and mind.

The hot-stone bath is a great way to relax and unwind after a day of exploring Bhutan’s rugged landscapes and ancient temples.

Relax in a private overwater villa in the Maldives:

Designed with luxury and romance in mind, overwater villas are built on stilts above the crystal clear waters of the Maldives, providing couples with stunning ocean views. These villas are equipped with all the amenities you would expect from a luxury resort, including private infinity pools, comfortable living areas, and outdoor decks.

Couples can spend their days lounging in the sun, swimming in the turquoise waters, or indulging in a couples spa treatment right from the comfort of their villa. Breakfast is delivered to their doorstep, on a floating tray to be enjoyed from their private infinity pool. The resorts also offer various activities such as snorkeling, diving, and fishing.

Island Hopping in El Nido, Palawan

Island hopping in El Nido is a popular activity for couples, as it offers the chance to explore the beautiful islands and beaches of the Bacuit Bay. Couples can take a boat tour and visit a variety of islands, each offering different activities such as snorkeling, swimming, and beach lounging. Some of the popular islands to visit are Miniloc Island, known for its crystal-clear waters and colorful fishes, and Shimizu Island, known for its white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters.

A romantic picnic lunch awaits on one of the many secluded beaches. Our tour operators also offer sunset cruises and romantic dinners on the boat.

Our team of experts at Asia Bespoke Tours provide individualized customization when crafting your itinerary and support throughout every step of the process from destination selection to finalized bookings and on the ground assistance. Reach out to learn more about our packages and services.

 

Introducing Bhutan, Asia’s New Gem!

Bhutan, the small Himalayan kingdom, is an often-overlooked destination that we are now excited to offer as a luxury destination to our travelers at Asia Bespoke Tours. This quaint, landlocked country nestled among the mountains offers an unparalleled experience of natural beauty, rich culture, and traditional heritage.

Known for their commitment to preserving tradition, our new itineraries promote cultural immersion and sustainable tourism tied into the country’s best practices. To visit Bhutan, travelers must pay a minimum of $250 per day, making it seem as though they’re one of the world’s more expensive destinations. However, the fee is all-inclusive offering accommodation, food, and transport in addition to any taxes and royalties. By embracing a low volume high value approach to tourism, Bhutan offers both an authentic and luxurious experience to each visitor unlike anywhere in the world.

As the last great Himalayan Kingdom, this approach is a must to carry on the magic. This focus on preserving its natural environment and traditional way of life has resulted in a luxurious destination that is both untouched and unspoiled. However these are only a few reasons as to why Bhutan is an incredible travel destination.

Here are a few more reasons why we are excited to share Bhutan with our travelers at Asia Bespoke Tours:

Unique Luxury Accommodations:

Bhutan has some of the most luxurious lodges in the world. Built in traditional Bhutanese style, accommodations seamlessly blend custom architecture with modern amenities and sleek designs. From luxurious tented camps nestled in the heart of the Himalayas to elegant boutique hotels in the bustling capital city of Thimphu, Bhutan’s luxury accommodations offer a one-of-a-kind experience for travelers. Properties are built using locally-sourced materials, such as rammed earth and natural stone, and feature intricate Bhutanese artwork and design elements. Guests can indulge in spa treatments, delicious Bhutanese cuisine, and enjoy breathtaking views of the Himalayas right from their rooms.

World Class Spas & Wellness Centers:

Bhutan is a destination that is renowned for its focus on wellness and spiritual rejuvenation. The luxury hotels and resorts in Bhutan reflect this, with many offering world-class spa and wellness centers that provide a wide range of treatments and services to help guests relax and revitalize. From traditional Bhutanese hot stone baths to Ayurvedic massages and yoga classes, there are countless offerings unlike anything found in other parts of the world. Perhaps the best part of these experiences are the stunning surroundings they are held in, right in the heart of the Himalayas often with breathtaking views. The natural component of these treatments add an element of serenity like no other.

Thrilling Adventures:

A true nature lover’s paradise, Bhutan offers a wide variety of outdoor adventures for travelers to enjoy. Whether you’re a seasoned trekker or a first-time hiker, the country’s rugged terrain and stunning landscapes are sure to take your breath away. From trekking through lush forests and over high mountain passes to rafting on glistening rivers and rock climbing on towering cliffs, there’s something for every adventure seeker in Bhutan. Or experience it all in the air! Hot air balloons and helicopter tours take you over the Himalayas, past snow-capped peaks, and through deep gorges. The spectacular landscapes make Bhutan one of the best countries for aerial experiences.

Wildlife Viewing:

Bhutan is home to a diverse range of wildlife, from majestic tigers and leopards to the more elusive snow leopard and red panda. The country is also home to a variety of bird species, including the national bird, the raven, and endangered black-necked crane. The Jigme Dorji National Park is a particularly good spot for wildlife viewing, as it is home to a variety of animals including the Himalayan tahr, musk deer, and blue sheep. Visitors can take guided treks to spot rare animals such as the takin and serow. Additionally, Bhutan’s rich biodiverse rivers are great for fly fishing.

Cultural Immersion:

The country has managed to preserve its traditional way of life and has a strong emphasis on preserving its rich cultural heritage allowing for meaningful cultural immersion while traveling. Visitors can explore ancient temples and monasteries, attend traditional ceremonies, and learn about Bhutanese customs and beliefs from the friendly and welcoming locals. The country is also home to a wide variety of traditional arts and crafts, including textiles, woodcarving, and painting that travelers can choose to partake in or simply shop for souvenirs from. Travelers lucky enough to visit during a Bhutanese festival are fortunate to gain a deeper understanding and appreciation of Bhutanese culture and way of life.

One of the most famous is the annual Tshechu festival, held in honor of Guru Rinpoche, also known as Padmasambhava, the patron saint of Bhutan. The festival features colorful mask dances and sacred rituals performed by local monks and laypeople. The Paro Tshechu festival, held in the Paro Valley, is considered one of the most spectacular and is attended by thousands of Bhutanese from across the country. Other popular festivals include the Punakha Dromchoe, Jambay Lhakhang Drup, and the Bumthang Tsechu. These festivals are not only a celebration of Bhutanese culture and spirituality but also an opportunity to witness the vibrant customs and traditions of the Bhutanese people.

 

An Underrated Foodie Gem:

Bhutan’s royal cuisine is a must try as it is considered to be one of the most luxurious cuisines in the world. Blending Indian, Tibetan and Bhutanese flavors, dishes such as Ema Datshi, made with chili peppers and cheese, and Jasha Maru, a spicy chicken dish are always a favorite. They are often paired with a variety of dumplings, including momos, similar to Tibetan dumplings, and khabze, a type of rice dumpling. The cuisine also features many different types of rice dishes, such as red rice and black rice, which are grown in the country’s high-altitude terraced fields. The food culture here is heavily influenced by its Buddhist heritage, where meals are often accompanied by traditional rituals and blessings offering a unique component to every dining experience.

Our destination management experts at Asia Bespoke Tours provide unparalleled expertise and service when crafting luxury itineraries throughout Bhutan. To learn more about the custom luxury experiences offered by our experienced destination management team, contact us or reach out directly today.

Luxury Yachting: The Best Way to Experience Asia

Southeast Asia is home to some of the most beautiful and pristine beaches in the world, and the very best way to experience them is from the calm waters of the South Pacific ocean. From the reefs of the Raja Ampat archipelago to the pink beaches of Komodo national park, from the majestic Langkawi archipelago in Malaysia to lively Phuket, Thailand, the very best sights of Asia can be experienced from the water.

Experience the pinnacle of luxury aboard a private yacht cruise and journey from destination to destination in the utmost comfort. The diversity of culture that can be seen on a cruise in Southeast Asia is unlike anything else in the world, hopping from island to island and experiencing different traditions and practices on each. The marine leisure industry is constantly growing in Southeast Asia, as it represents one of the premier destinations for luxury travel on the water. Post-COVID, destinations are reopening and yachting is poised for rapid expansion in the next year. At Asia Bespoke Tours, we offer customized luxury experiences for our clients to allow them the very best experience in leisure or business travel that yachting can offer. There is no better time to cruise through Asia than now, and no national or international destination management company can match the service of Asia Bespoke.

Attractions

Some of the most wondrous attractions of Southeast Asia are perfect to visit from the water, with wondrous sights and experiences throughout the region. The natural wonders of the region are unmatched, and many of the greatest adventures and encounters are only possible by boat. Some of our favorites from around Southeast Asia include:

Flores Island and Komodo National Park – Indonesia – As well as being the only home of the primordial Komodo dragon, the largest lizard in the world, Komodo National Park also boasts crystal-clear waters and reefs perfect for diving, as well as unique pink sand beaches. Just off the coast of Flores island and Komodo National Park also lies Manta Point,  the best place in the world to see the majestic Manta Ray, the largest ray in the world, in its natural habitat. These wonders can only be accessed by boat and are perfect for luxury yacht tours.

Raja Ampat Archipelago – Indonesia – Sitting atop the equator and forming the heart of the storied Coral Triangle of reefs, the archipelago boasts more than 1,700 species of reef fish, as well as endangered and rare marine mammals, making some of the best diving in the world. There is no better way to experience the wonders of this natural marvel, for divers and non-divers alike, than on a private cruise.

Alor Archipelago – Indonesia – The volcanic islands of the Alor archipelago are some of the most beautiful and pristine volcano-formed islands in the world. With twenty islands and fifty dive spots to explore, along with diverse culture, the Alor archipelago is a hidden Indonesian gem ripe for travelers of all tastes to discover.

Spice Islands – Indonesia – Famous for their colonial history and spices, the Maluku islands of Indonesia offer deep-sea and shallow reefs, along with unique flora and fauna. These tiny islands are ideally accessed from the sea and are perfect for exploration both above and below the emerald waters.

The Islands of Thailand – The world-famous beaches of Phuket are an ideal place to visit on a luxury yachting cruise, boasting pristine white sand and sparkling waters. For snorkeling, diving, jet-skiing, parasailing, and more, the best way to experience Phuket is through a private, serene yachting experience. In addition, the largest in an archipelago of more than 80 islands that includes the Ang Thong National Marine Park, Koh Samui is an easy trip by boat to stunning scenery. For watersports, yoga instruction, Muay Thai training, scuba diving, and even golf, Koh Samui is an ideal destination for travelers of any taste. Lastly, Thailand also has smaller islands including Phi Phi Island, James Bond Island, Phang Nga Bay and National Park that have unbelievable natural sites that will leave you speechless.

Langkawi Archipelago – Malaysia – Alluring and idyllic in its natural beauty, majestic and spectacular in its cultural heritage, the Langkawi archipelago was the first landmass in Southeast Asia to be formed, and today consists of forest-covered mountains and hills along with limestone ridges and stunning beaches.

Maldives – The tiny nation of the Maldives consists of over 1,000 islands in the Indian Ocean, and can only be fully explored by boat or sea plane. One of the most pristine destinations in the world, the beaches and reefs of the Maldives are perfect for exploration and relaxation alike.

At Asia Bespoke Tours, we develop customized travel packages to any destination in order to get the very best out of your visit.

Luxury Cruises

Across Southeast Asia, travelers have the opportunity to combine Luxury Cruising with Luxury Hideaways or Escapes, including boutique hotels and resorts. Across iconic destinations like Bali, Lombok, Sumba, Koh Samui, Krabi, Langkawi, Bawah Reserve and of course in the Maldives, luxury travelers are able to combine cruise and hotel stays all while exploring what these destinations have to offer.

Below are a few luxury cruises that Asia Bespoke Tours has connections, packages and partnerships with.

Mutiara Laut – Offering stops in Komodo, Papua, Raja Ampat, Ambon, Lost Island, Flores, West Timor, Kalimantan, Sulawesi, Maluku, and Sumatra, the Mutiara Laut customizes voyages to your specifications. With seven spacious cabins, including VIP cabin, private chefs, onboard spa treatments, and adventures in watersports and diving, there is something for everyone.

Prana by Atzaro – Cruise the Spice Islands, Komodo National Park, and the Raja Ampat Archipelago aboard the largest traditional Phinisi yacht in the world. With nine luxury suites, this cruise also offers cultural discovery and world-class diving, along with fine dining and onboard spa.

Aqua Blue – With a grand legacy as the former British Naval Explorer HMS Beagle and later as the private yacht of a European aristocratic family, Aqua Blu is steeped in maritime history. The fifteen-suite ship is the ideal way to cruise the natural wonders of Indonesia in complete luxury in the vast indoor and outdoor spaces, including onboard spa.

Douc France – Perfectly equipped for charter worldwide to discover the world’s most
beautiful and unspoiled places whilst submerged in the highest standards of luxury
in the yachting industry, the Douce France is the largest schooner catamaran in the world. With fine dining, watersports, and spacious decks, this ship is the pinnacle of comfort.

Ocean Pearl – One of the newest ships available, the Ocean Pearl was constructed in 2010 with five cabins fitted to the highest standards of luxury. Watersports abound, with jet ski, waterski, wakeboards, canoes, fishing and snorkeling – and unique at-anchor stabilizers provide the highest degree of comfort for guests to explore Thailand from the water.

Ocean Emerald – Glide in style to your dream destination where you can customize your journey at every turn; from exploring remote islands and diving in the sparkling waters across Southeast Asia, to Michelin star dining onboard and sunset yoga on white sandy beaches. The flawless elegance of the Ocean Emerald is perfect for any traveler.

Alexa – Reviving the art of traditional boat building and integrating sustainability and modern technologies, Alexa’s classical wooden vessels are bringing the yachting experience to a new level of luxury. Designed for just two passengers, Alexa cruises are the ultimate romantic getaway to explore the islands of Indonesia or the Maldives.

Amandira – Explore the realm of the Komodo dragons, the storied Spice Islands, and the underwater kingdoms of Raja Ampat and the Flores Sea, all from the decks of Aman’s custom-made expedition vessel. Fully staffed and yours to command, the cruiser takes you on a journey to rarely seen wonders, with every detail tailored to personal preference.

Alila Purnama – Handcrafted in the traditional style of an Indonesian Phinisi, Alila Purnama consists of three decks, 4 double deluxe suites and 1 master suite with a private deck, large wraparound windows offering 180-degree views of the incredible landscape. Adventures for divers of all skill levels are complemented by onboard spa and fine dining.

Oracle – A custom built phinisi style yacht launching in spring 2019, Oracle was carefully designed to evoke Indonesian heritage with locally sourced wood and traditional boatbuilding methods. Oracle is ideal for couples or small families, geared towards outdoor living at its finest while reaffirming a commitment to sustainable and conscious tourism.

Yachting for MICE Travel

In addition to spectacular leisure cruises, charter yachts are perfect for corporate retreats of any size, allowing privacy and comfort for employees to work more closely together on projects both within and outside the scope of business. Changing the environment, incorporating new activities, and lowering stress allows employees to think more freely than within the office, and can lead to creative problem-solving and innovative ideas. The serenity and luxury of a yacht provide this unique environment, and is an ideal opportunity for MICE travelers.

Our destination management experts at Asia Bespoke Tours provide incomparable expertise and service through complete packages to get your yachting experience started sooner and with less hassle than any other option, including VIP and fast track services at airports and even day excursions to experience local scenery and culture. We also develop customized travel packages to suit your every need and get the very best out of your stay.

In 2022 and 2023, the best way to experience Southeast Asia is by yacht, and there is no service offered that can match our team at Asia Bespoke. To learn more about the custom luxury experiences offered by our expert destination management team, contact us or reach out directly today:

ASIA BESPOKE TOURS HEAD OFFICE
Mr. Manfred Schweizer / CEO
Ks16, Blk2, Lot18, Carrington Street, Lancaster City,
Brgy Navarro, General Trias, 4107 Cavite
PHILIPPINES
Email: info@asiabespoketours.com
Phone: +63 9610 458 479 (WhatsApp)