indochina Unveiled
For additional information:
Liz Bigwood Travel Office (800) 225-2029
(413) 585-2015 fax
[email protected]
www.smith.edu (click ‘For Alumnae’)
Enclosed is my/our deposit check for $ __________ ($1,000 per person), payable to
Asia Transpacific Journeys, to reserve ______ place(s) on Smith College’s Indochina
Unveiled. Or, charge my/our deposit to my/our:
Dear Alumnae,
Steeped in a history of powerful dynasties, diverse religious traditions, and political transformations, Vietnam beckons the sophisticated traveler to visit now. The landscape hosts emerald green
rice fields and the remnants of ancient temples, and its cities fuse
French colonial architecture and ancient dynastic elements. With
one foot firmly planted in the ideology of Ho Chi Minh and the other
taking a giant leap toward the global free market economy, Vietnam
today is a fascinating study in contradictions.
(The last three digits in the signature block on back of Visa & Mastercard)
Cardholder signature:_ _________________________________________________
Name _________________________________________________________
Name _________________________________________________________
Address________________________________________________________
City / State / Zip__________________________________________________
(If using a P.O. box, please also include a street address for FedEx shipments.)
Home Phone_________________________________________________
Work Phone_________________________________________________
Email______________________________________________________
This in-depth exploration also includes a visit to Laos, which
was closed off to visitors for 20 years in the 1960s and 70s, and
remains one of the best-kept secrets in Asia. Its quiet ambiance
and relaxed pace, its striking natural beauty, the genuine warmth
of its people, and the richness of the culture tend to surprise and
enchant even the most experienced traveler.
Please indicate the following preferences:
p Double/Twin accommodations (please provide name of person sharing room if not
shown above) p Single preferred with single supplement
p I am reserving as a single but prefer to share accommodations and will allow
you to select my roommate (shares cannot be guaranteed).
p I am interested in having my international flights arranged
p I am interested in having my U.S. domestic connection arranged (originating city)
p I/We would like to participate in the Angkor, Cambodia Extension (number joining)
Note: Each participant must sign this waiver.
Signature _ ________________________________________ Date______________
Signature _ ________________________________________ Date______________
PAID
Discover the mystical Pak Ou Caves in Laos / ATJ
MasterCard/VISA #: ____________________________________________________
Exp. date: _ _________________________________________________________
V Code: ____________________________________________________________
Waiver of Liability I have read the schedule of activities and other information in this
brochure for Alumnae Association of Smith College’s Indochina Unveiled and recognize and accept all risks thereof. I understand and agree on behalf of myself, my
dependents, heirs, administrators, and assigns to abide by the conditions set forth
under “Understandings & Responsibilities” and to release and hold harmless Alumnae
Association of Smith College and the Tour Operator(s) and any of their officers, employees, agents, licensees, or representatives, from any and all liability for delays, injuries,
or death, or for the loss of or damage to property in relation to the program Indochina
Unveiled, January 11–27, 2008. By signing this, I also certify that I do not have any
mental or physical condition that would create a hazard for myself or other passengers.
A custom-designed program for the alumnae association of smith college
Extend your journey to Cambodia, to discover the magnificent ruins
of the ancient Khmer Empire at Angkor, which covers an area the
size of Manhattan.
faculty Bio
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Indochina
Unveiled
A Journey to Vietnam
With an optional extensions to laos and Cambodia
This area of Southeast Asia—old French Indochina—is enjoying
peace and unprecedented prosperity after decades of war and privation. These nations are culturally linked, yet remarkably distinct:
unravel their common and divergent threads on this definitive
journey.
Sincerely,
Carrie S. Brown, Ed. M. ’82
Executive Director
Awash in a sea of rice fields / ATJ
Cover: Hanoi's Opera House and Danang / ATJ
Please send your deposit with this form to:
Smith Travel Alumnae Association of Smith College
33 Elm Street
Northampton, MA 01063
DENVER , CO
PERMIT No. 1205
PRSRT STD
US POSTAGE
January 11 – 27, 2008
With an optional extensions to laos and Cambodia
Smith Travel
Alumnae Association of Smith College
33 Elm Street
Northampton, MA 01063
A Journey to Vietnam
Roger LeMoyne
january 11 — 27, 2008
LAOS EXTENSION
Tuesday, Jan. 15
Luang Prabang/Hanoi, Vietnam
Rise early to partake in a deeply moving Buddhist ritual, in which kneeling locals give alms
to long lines of barefoot monks as they walk through the streets at dawn. Then fly from Luang
Prabang to Hanoi to begin the Vietnam program. (B)
Friday, Jan. 18
Hué
Today fly from Hanoi to Hué. Explore the ancient Citadel and the Forbidden Purple City, once the
seat of Vietnam’s emperors, accompanied by the Director of the Hué Restoration Committee. This
evening enjoy dinner and a lecture on UNESCO restoration efforts in Hué by a renowned historian
at his lovely private estate (once a royal villa).
La Residence Hotel (B,L,D) – Superbly located on the banks of the Perfume River in the city center,
this stylish French colonial property is a tranquil retreat, featuring art deco-inspired decor.
Sunday, Jan. 20
Danang/Hoi An
This morning, drive south past fishing villages and rice fields. Stops en route include
Danang’s Cham Museum, and a short visit to China Beach, known to many as the R&R site
for U.S. soldiers. Arrive in Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage town with a timeless ambiance.
After a sunset boat, dine at a popular restaurant.
Life Resort Hoi An (B,L,D) – Set on the river in the French colonial quarter, this sophisticated,
tranquil property with landscaped gardens is just five minutes walking distance from the
bustling market.
Delightful street scenes / ATJ
ANGKOR EXTENSION
Thurs.–Fri., Jan. 24–25
Angkor (Siem Reap), Cambodia
Fly from Saigon to Siem Reap. The temples of Angkor represent one of humankind’s most
astonishing and enduring architectural achievements. The remnants of an ancient city that
covered an area the size of Manhattan lies in silent testament to the genius of a lost empire.
Explore the major sites, as well as some less well-known jewels.
See colossal Angkor Wat, the crowning achievement in classical Khmer architecture. Marvelous
Monday, Jan. 21
My Son/Hoi An
Explore Hoi An on a walking tour which includes the Japanese covered-bridge, Phuong Huong
House, and the Phuoc Kien Pagoda, all fine examples of the stylistic syncretism of this vibrant
community. Then join an optional Vietnamese cooking class with a famous local chef. After
the class join other group members at the restaurant for lunch. This afternoon visit My Son,
Vietnam's most important Cham site. The evening is at leisure. Life Resort Hoi An (B,L)
Tuesday, Jan. 22
Saigon
This morning, fly from Danang to Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon). This frenetic city is the
economic powerhouse of this rapidly developing country. Visit Reunification Hall, with its
dank, reinforced basement, the nerve center of the Vietnam War; see the War Remnants
Museum, the Notre Dame Cathedral, and the General Post Office, designed by Gustav Eiffel.
Enjoy a cool drink at the famous rooftop bar of our hotel, where the U.S. military and
international press held wartime briefings, ironically referred to as the "Five O'clock Follies."
Caravelle Hotel (B,L,D) – The historic Caravelle is one of Saigon’s premier hotels, overlooking
Lam Son Square and the Metropolitan Theatre.
Wednesday, Jan. 23
Cu Chi/Saigon
Today visit the notorious Cu Chi Tunnels. This underground labyrinth once stretched from
Saigon to the Cambodian frontier, and was an important base of operations for the Viet Cong.
Descending into the tunnels, discover firsthand the harsh conditions endured by those who
took refuge underground. Return to Saigon, with the afternoon at leisure to explore Saigon
independently. There will also be an optional visit to Blue Space studio, a gallery with some of
the best art in Saigon. Tonight, enjoy a wonderful dinner at one of Saigon's finest restaurants.
Caravelle Hotel (B,D)
Thursday, Jan. 24
Home/Angkor Extension
Transfer to the airport for flights home. (B) Fly Saigon to Los Angeles via Hong Kong.
Explore the Angkor complex, one of the world's greatest sites / ATJ
bas-relief carvings depict scenes from Hindu mythology and everyday life. At Angkor Thom
highlights include the Bayon, the Terrace of the Elephants and the Leper King. The remarkably
preserved relief carvings at Banteay Srei (Citadel of Women) are among the most accomplished
at Angkor, and within the jungle-covered ruins of Ta Prohm, immense kapok trees grow through
sandstone galleries, and raucous green parrots keep watch. On the final evening, enjoy dinner
and a Khmer classical dance performance.
La Residence Angkor Hotel (B,L,D both days) – Located on the river and built in traditional
Khmer style, this property is a haven of tranquility, comfort, artistry and beauty.
Sat.–Sun., Jan. 26–27
Angkor/Bangkok/Home
Visit the workshop of Les Artisans D’Angkor, a network of Cambodian craftspeople skilled in
woodcarving, stone carving, lacquer ware and silk weaving. Fly from Siem Reap to Bangkok.
Novotel Suvarnabhumi Airport Hotel. (B)
The next morning transfer to the airport via hotel shuttle. (B)
January 11 – 27, 2008
On day three visit the National Museum, with its fascinating collection of murals, the sacred
pha bang standing Buddha image, and gifts from heads of state, including a moon rock
presented by President Nixon. Hear a talk on textiles and the deep-rooted traditions of weaving
in Laos from renowned experts at a weaving center. This evening is free for exploration and
dinner on your own.
Maison Souvannaphoum (All meals except dinner Jan. 14) – This former royal property
gracefully blends French colonial and contemporary design elements
Thursday, Jan. 17
Hanoi
Tour the Ethnology Museum, which provides an overview of the cultural and historical heritage of
Vietnam's minority ethnic groups. Then see what remains of Maison Centrale (a French-colonial
prison, known infamously as the “Hanoi Hilton” by former U.S. POWs). Next, enjoy late morning
tea at the gallery of an American art critic who specializes in Vietnamese contemporary art. After
lunch, visit Craft Link, an organization that works with women's groups, including various minorities, to promote and teach traditional skills. This evening is at leisure for exploration and dinner
on your own. Sofitel Metropole (B,L)
Saturday, Jan. 19
Hué
Travel by boat to visit the Royal Tombs, with their vast gardens and many shrines. These
mausoleums were designed to assure the seven Nguyen emperors noble and commodious
afterlives. Returning to Hué, visit the famous Thien Mu Pagoda. An aged Morris automobile
sits here as a reminder of the local monk who, in 1963, drove to Saigon and immolated
himself to protest the anti-Buddhist laws of the Ngo Dinh Diem regime. The remainder of
the day is at leisure. La Residence Hotel (B,L)
Engaging locals in Danang / ATJ
Insurance Purchase of trip cancellation insurance is highly recommended; information will be sent to
registrants.
Understandings & Responsibilities In order to offer travel experiences to its members, Alumnae
Association of Smith College (AASC) has arranged for Asia Transpacific Journeys (ATJ), an independent
Tour Operator, to organize this tour and procure carriage, accommodations, and other tour services
from other parties. AASC serves only to assist in making necessary travel arrangements and in no
way represents, or acts as agent for, transportation carriers, hotels, or any other suppliers of services
connected with this tour. Travel and services are subject only to the terms and conditions under which
such accommodations, services, and transportation are offered or provided, and AASC and its employees accept no responsibility or liability therefore. AASC and ATJ accept no responsibility for any damage, loss, accident, injury, delay, or other irregularity which may be caused by the defect of any vehicle
or the negligence or default of any company or person engaged in carrying out or performing any of
the services involved in this tour. Nor do AASC or ATJ accept responsibility for losses or expenses due
to sickness, weather, strikes, political unrest, wars, or other such causes. Any such losses or expenses
must be borne by the participant, since tour rates provide for arrangements only for the time stated.
AASC and ATJ reserve the right to make changes in the published itinerary whenever, in their judgment, conditions warrant, or if they deem it necessary for the comfort, convenience, or the safety of
the tour. They reserve the right to withdraw without penalty any tour announced. AASC and ATJ also
reserve the right to decline to accept any person as a member of the tour, or to require any participant
to withdraw from the tour, at any time, if such action is determined by the appropriate staff member
to be in the best interest of the health, safety, and general welfare of the tour group or the individual
participant. Under such circumstances, no refund will be made. Baggage and personal effects are
solely the responsibility of the owners at all times. Dates, schedules, program details, and costs,
given in good faith, based on information available and in force in March 2007, are subject to change
and revision. As a condition to acceptance of enrollment, please read, agree to, and sign the Waiver of
Liability statement set forth on the reservation form.
The following day, boat up the Mekong to the Pak Ou Caves, a mystical pilgrimage site
with 3,000 statues of the Buddha. Visit Ban Phanom, a tranquil hamlet home to the Khmu
people, an ancient Mon-Khmer ethnic group. At Ban Xienglek village, see the traditional art of
mulberry paper making, and silk textile production. Enjoy a traditional baci ceremony, in which
villagers tie sacred strings of friendship and good fortune around visitors’ wrists. A classical
dance performance and dinner follow.
iver
Sat.–Mon., Jan. 12–14
Luang Prabang, Laos
Fly from Bangkok to Luang Prabang, Laos. With its calm, quaint feel, meandering streets, glittering temples, smiling locals and lush surrounding hills, Luang Prabang is one of Asia’s most
alluring locales. French colonial, art deco and northern Lanna Thai structures comprise an
exquisite and well-preserved architectural legacy: the town is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Visit Wat Visounalat, Wat Mai, and Wat Xieng Thong, a 400-year-old royal monastery complex.
At dusk, climb Phousi Hill to view the sunset over the Mekong.
Wednesday, Jan. 16
Hanoi
ed
CHINA
Riv
Examine the influence of Ho Chi
er
Hanoi
LAOS
Minh with visits to his massive
mausoleum and simple stilted
Luang Prabang
home. Tour the Temple of Literature—dedicated to Confucius,
and the site of Vietnam’s first
M
university. Stop at the One Pillar
South China Sea
Vientiane
Pagoda and the beaux-arts
style Opera House. After lunch
THAILAND
explore the city’s Old Quarter
Hué
From
Bangkok
aboard bicycle rickshaws.
Danang
Each street is named for the
Siem Reap &
To Bangkok
Hoi An
wares on offer—explore Shoe
Angkor Wat
Street, Banner Street and Silk
Street, to name a few. End at
beautiful and historic Hoan
Kiem Lake. Late afternoon is
Phnom Penh
free for independent exploration.
VIETNAM
This evening attend a traditional
CAMBODIA
Saigon
water puppet performance. Sofitel
Metropole (B,L,D)
Mekong Delta
ng R
(Please Note: International flights and additional, private services can be arranged by Asia Transpacific
Journeys for all participants.)
(Please Note: International flights and additional, private services can be arranged by Asia Transpacific Journeys
for all participants.)
eko
Friday, Jan. 11
Bangkok, Thailand
Arrive Bangkok. Meet your tour leader and transfer, via the hotel shuttle, to the new airport
hotel for an early evening orientation meeting, and a light dinner.
Overnight Novotel Suvarnabhumi Airport Hotel - Deluxe Rooms. This new, four-star hotel is part
of Bangkok's new international airport.
Tuesday, Jan. 15
Hanoi, Vietnam
Arrive Hanoi. Meet your local guide and transfer to our historic hotel in the heart of Hanoi for an afternoon to relax while group members arrive throughout the day. This evening, reconvene for a group
dinner at a popular restaurant. Sofitel Metropole (D) – The superb, five-star Metropole is a French
colonial masterpiece ideally located in the heart of Hanoi, near the magnificent Opera House.
R
For additional information:
Liz Bigwood Travel Office (800) 225-2029
(413) 585-2015 fax
[email protected] www.smith.edu (click ‘For Alumnae’)
Traditional ways endure / ATJ
TERMS & CONDITIONS
Tour Cost: From Price $XXXX (includes airfare within Asia)
Air from US to Bangkok and Saigon to US: From $ XXXX
Single Supplement: $ XXXX
Cambodia Extension Cost: From $ XXXX
Single Supplement: $ XXXX
Captivating countryside / ATJ
indochina Unveiled
indochina Unveiled
Prayer time, Vietnamese Temple / ATJ
Tour Cost Includes All flights within Asia; all accommodations; meals as indicated by B, L, D in the
itinerary; gratuities for local staff, entrance fees, group transfers and group baggage handling at
hotels; airport departure taxes; camera fees at parks; services of an expert tour leader, Smith College
representative and English-speaking local guides; all activities as described in the itinerary; comprehensive pre-departure materials including logistical, reading, and packing suggestions; visa fees.
Tour Cost Excludes International airfare (round-trip economy-class fare from New York JFK to
Bangkok starting at $ XXXXXX); independent transfers; travel insurance; meals not indicated in the
itinerary; alcoholic beverages not included above; personal expenses, such as laundry, telephone/fax
charges and excess baggage fees; gratuities for tour leader.
Single Supplement/Shares Single accommodations are limited, subject to availability at the time of
booking. The supplement for a single room is $XXXXXX. Should you wish to share a twin room, we will
attempt to select a roommate for you at your request. If we are unable to provide a roommate by the
final invoice date, the single supplement will be assessed.
Deposit A deposit of $1,000 per person, payable to Asia Transpacific Journeys, and a completed reservation form confirm your space. The final balance is due 90 days before departure, upon receipt of invoice
and is payable by check or major credit card.
Cancellations Cancellation must be received in writing at Smith Travel, by fax or mail. At the time
Smith Travel receives your written cancellation, the following per-person penalties will apply. Cancellations made up to 90 days prior to departure: Full refund less a handling fee of $100. Cancellations
made 31 to 89 days prior to departure: Forfeit 50% of the land cost. Cancellations made 30 days or
less of departure: Forfeit entire tour cost.
Air Transportation Asia Transpacific Journeys, Alumnae Association of Smith College’s tour operator
for this trip, can arrange international and U.S. domestic flights in conjunction with this tour. Information will be sent to registrants.
See the glittering temples and robed monks of Luang Prabang, Laos / ATJ