"The Offer"
12 Day / 11 Nights Culinary & Cultural Tour into The Kingdom of Cambodia & The Democratic Peoples Republic of Laos
Chef Don Hancey & Candice Stanley Tour Leaders
Cost per person: Twin Share from AUD $7900 - Single supplement from AUD $2100
(Note some seasonal adjustment)
*Heaven on Earth welcome guests from any global location, & will accommodate those wishing to join the 12 Day Culinary & Cultural Tour for the Cambodia or Laos sector only
NB: (Cost may be reduced if client chooses 3-4 Star accommodation option)
The Itinerary
Day 1 - Meet in Phnom Penh, Cambodia
You will be met on arrival by Chef Don Hancey & Candice Stanley your Australian tour leaders and transferred to your accommodation at the Raffles Hotel Le Royal. After settling into your room, we venture into Phnom Penh sharing a relaxed dinner and welcoming evening, where your fellow Heaven on Earth travellers are introduced.
Accommodation: Raffles Hotel Le Royal Phnom Penh (or similar)
Day 2 - Phnom Penh Touring, Shopping & "Yes" Cooking
Awake to a swim in the gorgeous Raffles pool situated among a mass of tropical gardens, or visit the well equipped gym. Then bring 'empty tummies' to where you will experience the sumptuous, international breakfast on offer at the Garden Terrace!
We begin our discovery of Phnom Penh in the thriving old market areas and then zip around the modernising
parts of the city, visiting the exotic Central Markets where gems, silks and statues entice.
We head to the opulent Royal Palace where local monks mix with the tourists and treasures.
For lunch we are in for a special treat at a hip, local cafe just a 'throne's stow' from the Royal Palace in the back streets of Phnom Penh, where ex street kids have been trained and provided a sustainable opportunity. A surprise is in store!
Our evening begins with drinks on the balcony at the Foreign Correspondents Club overlooking The Mekong, where expats mix with travellers from around the globe. We 'on on' from the FCC for a truly memorable dinner, prepared by you!
Your Cooking Class will be hosted by our fabulous culinary guide Don Hancey, together with the staff of a unique Khmer Restaurant, where insights into its remarkable amazing history and development will be revealed.
Accommodation: Raffles Hotel Le Royal Phnom Penh (or similar)
Day 3 - Phnom Penh - Culture & History, Mekong Cruise & Down Town
We take a 'walk back' into the brutal, (modern) history that Cambodia shockingly suffered under Pol Pot's reign during the 1970's, visiting 'The Killing Fields' & S-21 - The Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum 
.
This visit is entirely optional; the revelations are not for the 'faint hearted'. However, they will provide chilling insights into some of the historically recent horrors endured by the Khmer people, and how it has affected the culture and development of a re emerging Cambodia.
Mid afternoon we enjoy a calming cruise on the mighty Mekong where refreshing Angkor, Bayon and Beer Lao will be served, along with premium wines and delicious Khmer foods.
Early evening we meet for a sundowner in the famous, Raffles Elephant Bar, relaxing with a G & T or chilled beverage, as Don & Candice provide some guidance on 'getting around' Phnom Penh.
A free night is yours to unwind, or get together with fellow travellers and hit the warm, vibrant streetscape of down town Phnom Penh, sampling the fabulous local and international cuisine on offer, and to be tempted by the multitude of exciting bars.
You may wish to hire a 'tuk tuk', an open air local taxi to 'slowly' drive you through the fascinating streets of the old and new city, and The Mekong Promenade.
Accommodation: Raffles Hotel Le Royal Phnom Penh (or similar)
Day 4 - Phnom Penh Cambodia to Luang Prabang Laos -
The Jewel of French Indochina
Following a morning visit to a humanitarian centre we say "farewell" to Phnom Penh Cambodia flying towards new adventures in Luang Prabang the ancient capital of Laos which is an intriguing and spiritual destination.
To wind down, vacate and simply 'exhale' into this stage of our journey, we spend our time in Laos in and around Luang Prabang which we feel is one of the most 'chilled out' places on the planet, epitomising our 'idea' of Heaven on Earth.
We have therefore prepared a 'gently - gently', 'softly - softly', fairly unstructured itinerary for our sojourn into Laos, with plenty of time for 'personal' discoveries.
Luang Prabang is often regarded as the 'jewel' of French Indochina, being listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1995. It is richly filled with fine old temples and traditional villages that are dotted throughout the beautiful valley, jungle and hill areas.
Arriving early afternoon we transfer to our hotel in the cultural and historical 
heart of Luang Prabang where you can stroll the relatively vehicle free main roads or walk the paths that skirt the mighty Mekong and Khan rivers.
The town holds a multitude of safe back streets and alleys which sport busy markets, quiet cafes, book shops, small galleries, and many chilled out internet cafés; a second home to the many backpackers from just about every nation in the world. Our evening includes an introduction to traditional Lao cuisine, which will be enjoyed with fine beverages.
Accommodation: Maison Souvannaphoum Hotel (or similar)
Day 5 The Essence of Laos - Luang Prabang
Following a relaxed and hearty breakfast and subject to local conditions, we take 4 wheel drives into the jungle to join a trek and swim with elephants.
Or, we will cruise the Mekong to the almost derelict Wat Chomphet which sits high on the far bank from Luang Prabang where we take a gentle walk through the quaint village of Chomphet climbing the 100 steps to the XVIth Century Wat. From its three floor pagoda, drink in the peaceful quietude of this 'holy' place.
We lunch at a quaint local café where our guests will be introduced to locally sourced and prepared regional dishes, accompanied by fine wines and beers.
As a small group we visit Wat Paa Phon Phao, where feelings of serenity will inhabit the visitor to this golden temple which offers excellent views across the surrounding countryside.
Sunset will be enjoyed high on the banks of the Mekong, with Coffee Lao, green tea & sweet treats, whilst you gaze 'back', taking in stunning views of Luang Prabang and the peninsula it sits on.
A free evening will be yours to take in a performance at the Royal Ballet Theatre, wander the Pho Si Night Markets or meander where French colonial architecture makes a historical statement.
Accommodation: Maison Souvannaphoum Hotel (or similar)
Day 6 - Serenity & Pagodas
Luang Prabang is a place where time seems to stand still.
We arise early to observe Buddhist monks performing their daily ritual of receiving alms, followed by a tour of the fabulous morning markets with coffee taken with our friends at a local bakery.
Returning to our beautiful accommodation a sumptuous breakfast awaits, followed by time to choose relaxation, a traditional massage or spa treatment; or perhaps, just a laze by the pool.
A free day is yours to explore Luang Prabang which is a 'walker's paradise' filled with adventure at every turn. Our local guide along with Candice will be available to escort our guests around the countryside, where perhaps a delightful picnic may be enjoyed at Kouang Si Waterfalls.
Another peaceful evening arrives where we will be provided with an experience of "Cuisine Lao". During our Cooking Class we are taken
'step by step' through some traditional ingredients and recipes. We prepare regional dishes, imbibing the opportunity to gain local knowledge; working "hands on" with their Lao and French Chefs, enjoying the fruits of our labour in the spirit of camaraderie.
Accommodation: Maison Souvannaphoum Hotel (or similar)
Day 7 -Mekong, Pak Ou & Cuisine Lao
A serene day opens where by Long - Tail Boat we cruise the Mekong 25 kms upstream to Pak Ou Caves, also called The Cave of the 1000 Buddha's. Legend has it that King Setthathirat discovered the caves in the VIth century and since, they have been a venerated historical and religious site.
We lunch in a delightful 2 story, bamboo constructed restaurant complete with wines, chilled Beer Lao. For those who are game, a shot glass or 2 of the local 'moonshine' rice whisky.
A Degustation Evening beckons hosted by a delightful French ex pat couple; who head the team as maître d’ & chef.
Accommodation: Maison Souvannaphoum Hotel (or similar)
Day 8 - The Kingdom of Kampuchea / Cambodia
We fly to Siem Reap, gateway to The Temples of Angkor, arriving mid afternoon and transferring to our accommodation at one of the most stylish hotels in Siem Reap which provides a contemporary combination of art deco & traditional Khmer design.
Enjoy a free afternoon or come along on an escorted 'walk' into the bustling market areas and funky action strips of Siem Reap.
Early evening we welcome you to Angkor with an elegant, cocktail gathering in an establishment featured in Conde Nast’s Siem Reap Cambodian recommendations, where traditional Khmer foods and contemporary fare will be prepared by an internationally acclaimed team.
Accommodation: Hotel de la Paix (or similar)
Day 9 - Evocative Antiquity - Ta Prohm & Bayon
Relax with a swim and superior breakfast followed by mid morning transport to visit the majestic temples of Ta Prohm & Bayon, in the jungles of Angkor.
Ta Prohm, one of the most evocative temples in the world, is featured in the 'Tomb Raider' movies that star 'friend of Cambodia', Angelina Jolie. The fallen stone blocks of Ta Prohm are shrouded by gigantic, jungle trees that have tenaciously 'witnessed' and survived six centuries of ancient and modern Khmer history.
One of the last built in Angkor; Bayon is one of the few Buddhist temples, as most were dedicated to Hindu deities. Over 200 large faces adorn the 54 sanctuaries, or towers.
The unique, enormous 'faces', that surround and form the temple structure and highly descriptive bas relief, clearly depicting ancient Khmer civilization, will have you riveted!
Following our guide assisted tour of Bayon we 'on on' to taste the ‘famous’ spring rolls and Khmer delights at a renowned local cafe. As we wander between temples thirsts may be quenched with slices of fresh watermelon and pineapple, eagerly provided by local sellers.
After a long and wonderful day of embracing our first temple experiences we return to our hotel where following Rest & Refresh a casual dinner will be enjoyed at one of our favourite Khmer kitchens, where we introduce you to traditional, regional cuisine.
Following dinner we take a short stroll to relax with drinks at the popular Red Piano Bar.
Accommodation: Hotel de la Paix (or similar)
Day 10 - Angkor Wat & Paul du Brule Siem Reap
Sunrise awaits you at Angkor Wat - rise to your early morning call. We'll travel into the semi darkness and approaching dawn, to a vista that will imprint your mind forever.
Climb Angkor Wat to your personally selected vantage point to watch and 'feel' night transcend to day over this amazing structure.
Nourishment for the soul now temporarily sated, we seek nourishment for the body! We will take plenty of water, but by now you may be getting hungry! "Yes", we will find a spot of rare beauty to enjoy a light snack of pastries and coffee.
Retuning to your hotel for breakfast, a refreshing swim and mid morning relaxation.
Mid afternoon we travel the short distance to L'ecole Paul du Brule. This hospitability school has developed premiere status in the Greater Mekong area and is a testament to the amazing Not for Profit works being undertaken to provide sustainable skills to the youth of Cambodia. The Directors of Heaven on Earth support the school with scholarships and a skills facilitation program.
We undertake a unique Cooking Class, where we 'become' the students in a real, behind the scenes, culinary tuition environment.
We share the foods we have prepared, accompanied by wines and beers, with the very gorgeous and very 'French' Beatrice Baranger, Director and General Manager, who will recount the school's intriguing history.
The afternoon will be free to shop, gallery spy, or swim and relax poolside back at our Hotel, or be enticed into a traditional massage.
Early evening we venture to the Foreign Correspondents Club perched on the bank of the Siem Reap River, which has gracefully flowed from Kulan Mountain.
Sunset cocktails and Khmer snacks will be taken under the swirling fans of the rattan balcony or riverside.
The evening is yours, to seek and enjoy the mix of local Khmer, international and western contemporary restaurants and bars.
Accommodation: Hotel de la Paix (or similar)
Day 11- Tonlé Sap cruise & contemporary evenings
Sleep in; enjoy a relaxed breakfast or an early morning stroll through Siem Reap.
Around mid morning we take a leisurely cruise on Tonlé Sap Lake, South-East Asia's largest inland waterway.
Subject to prevailing conditions we visit the floating communities of Chong Khenas and Kampong Phluk, a cluster of villages with stilted houses built within the floodplain. The villages are primarily Khmer and have about 3000 inhabitants.
Following this we visit a select group of community artisans where you will have the opportunity to view and perhaps purchase traditional and contemporary art and artefacts.
A free afternoon will follow where you can seek out and experience local establishments or simply 'be still'.
A 'Kool' evening at the hottest table! Heaven on Earth escorts you to a hip bar & epicure centre nestled in the passage ways of the old market area.
This unique setting offers ‘food lovers’ cuisine, contemporary art, great service, and a chilled-out vibe, where will we have the pleasure to ‘wrap’ and share tour memories with our new friends.
Accommodation: Raffles Hotel Le Royal Phnom Penh (or similar)
Day 12 - Siem Reap > Homeward bound
We depart Siem Reap flying to Singapore (or similar) as we say 'farewell' and travel forward on our homeward journeys.
| Tour numbers: | A maximum of 13 participants per tour | |
| Cost: (As at January 2009) | Twin Share | $7900 |
| Single Supplement | $2100 | |
Please note: Prices are subject to fluctuations in the Australian Dollar. NB: (Cost may be reduced if client chooses 3-4 star accommodation option) |
||
Terms and Conditions
All prices are based on regional, economy class air fares and twin share accommodation. All days include full breakfast, all meals, alcohol and cooking classes where specified. All activities, events, on ground and water transport are included as specified in the itinerary.
All transfers and Visas are included. Business Class regional flights and single rooms may be available, and will attract supplementary cost.
Superior accommodation will be provided at all times. However, specified hotels are subject to availability.
All activities, restaurant and cooking class arrangements may be subject to change.
Participants are responsible for all costs associated with their own medical and travel insurance which is compulsory, along with a passport with twelve (12) months validity.
Participants are responsible for all costs associated with their own (ex itinerary) alcohol consumption, the payment of any gratuities, and any personal expenses and purchases.
The itinerary is subject to change. An extended and full copy of the Tour Inclusions, Terms and Conditions, and Disclaimers is available through contacting Heaven on Earth.
We welcome enquiry from clients who wish to join the tour for the Cambodia or Laos sector only.
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