travel talk:
Travel Deals

mark.tyas, 2011-03

El Nido

If you’re looking for an early taste of summer, then El Nido in the Philippines could be the break for you. Not only does the region boast white sands and blue waters, but this piece of paradise is considered a showcase of Palawan province’s geology and diverse wildlife. The region’s clear waters are teeming with hundreds of varieties of tropical fish, coral and endangered sea turtles, while its forests are host to more than 100 species of birds making the region a nature lover’s paradise. Round trip airfare, two nights’ accommodation and introductory climbing and diving courses are available for only RMB 5,310 plus tax.

Tripww.com. Tel: 5306 2060. Web: www.tripww.com

Phu Quoc

Phu Quoc, the largest island in Vietnam, is fast becoming world renowned for its stunning beaches and untouched natural environment. The island features an easy-going and relaxed atmosphere, friendly locals, fantastic scuba diving and snorkeling and a mountain range offering panoramic views of the sea. This six day/five night package offers return air travel and accommodation including one night in the Park Royal Hotel in Ho Chi Minh City and four nights at the La Veranda on Phu Quoc, and all for the bargain price of RMB 7,900 per person.

Xpats Travel. Tel: 6439 2985. Web: http://www.xpatstravel.com. Email: [email protected]

Tour Bhutan

The Himalayan Kingdom of Bhutan, once forbidden to foreigners, is known for its truly unique culture and breathtaking scenery. Now you can discover the ‘Land of the Thunder Dragon’ with Country Holidays’ six day itinerary, which includes visits to such sights and attractions as the Zilukha Nunnery, the Drukyel ruins and the Taksang Monastery – a structure which defies all engineering logic, mounted on a vertical cliff face some 800 metres above the ground. Starting at RMB 23,780, the package includes return flights to Paro via Bangkok and Shanghai, accommodation, most meals and tours with an English speaking guide on an air conditioned bus.

Country Holidays. Tel: 3222 0616. Web: www.countryholidays.com.cn. Email: [email protected]

Explore Yunnan

Yunnan province is famous for its beautiful landscape and colourful ethnic minorities. Sharing a border with Myanmar in Southwest China, the region has been popular with Chinese tourists for many years and is only just coming to the attention of Western tour operators. This eight day/seven night package will take you to the region’s capital Kunming, the famous volcanic hot springs at Tengchong and the oriental jewelry city of Ruli. Sights include the Stone Forest, the home to the Sani tribe of the Yi ethnic minority and the Beihei Wetland Reserve, amongst other attractions. The package includes four star accommodations, all meals and flights to and from Shanghai for RMB 12,920.