Asean Adventure Travel 0816.

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 Adventure travel in Southeast Asia doesn’t
get better than this!

This handy guide contains just some examples of the many exciting ways to
enjoy Southeast Asia. The ten ASEAN nations offer a diverse wealth of natural
attractions and challenging terrains, perfect for indulging in a variety of outdoor
pursuits such as biking, trekking, hiking, climbing and camping. The seemingly
endless coastlines coupled with the abundance of inland river waterways in this
part of the world also make water-based activities a popular pursuit in this region,
whether it’s surfing in Thailand, scuba diving in Malaysia, kayaking in Viet Nam or
kitesurfing in The Philippines. On top of that, annual running marathons across
Southeast Asia not only allow visitors to stay active but also provide sightseeing
from a different perspective.

To find out more about soft adventure opportunities all across the ten ASEAN
nations, visit: www.aseantourism.travel

Thailand Indonesia Malaysia

Singapore Myanmar Laos Viet Nam

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Brunei Philippines Cambodia

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 MYANMAR
LAOS
VIET NAM
Map
Philippine Sea
THAILAND
South China Sea
CAMBODIA

PHILIPPINES

Malacca Strait
BRUNEI

MALAYSIA

SINGAPORE

Indian Ocean

INDONESIA
Sunda Strait

Lombok Strait

Contents
BRUNEI | 04
CAMBODIA | 07 BRUNEI CAMBODIA INDONESIA

INDONESIA | 09
LOAS | 13 LAOS MALAYSIA MYANMAR

MALAYSIA | 14
MYANMAR | 17
Viet Nam PHILIPPINES | 18 PHILIPPINESS INGAPORE THAILAND

SINGAPORE | 19
THAILAND | 20
VIET NAM | 24 VIET NAM

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ambodia

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 Ministry of Industry and
Primary Resources
Jalan Menteri Besar
Bandar Seri Begawan – BB3910
Brunei Darulsalam
Tel: (673) 238 2822 / (673) 238 2832
Fax: (673) 238 2824 / (673) 238 2807
Email: info@bruneiourism.travel
Website: www.bruneitourism.travel

ULU TEMBURONG NATIONAL PARK

The jewel in Brunei’s impressive crown of natural attractions, this 500 km² (193 sqm) National
Park is covered by pristine tropical rainforest teeming with amazing ecological diversity, allowing
visitors to easily and safely experience the real primeval Borneo jungle, complete with a thrilling
set of interconnected canopy walkways towering above the treetops and offering 360° views of a
natural environment undisturbed by civilisation for as far as the eyes can see.

The easily accessible National Park, located in the sparsely inhabited district of Temburong that
is separated from the rest of the country by a sliver of Malaysia, is only two hours away from
the capital by a boat, bus and native longboat trip that in itself feels like an adventure. Day trips

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 to a pristine rainforest environment are therefore a possibility, allowing a wider audience, or those
with little time available, to enjoy such an experience. For those with more time on their hands,
an overnight or two in the rainforest can be a more fulfilling way to discover and appreciate this
environment. Accommodation choices range from simple but comfortable tour-operator-run lodges
downriver from the Park, to the elegantly appointed Ulu Ulu Resort located inside the Park. Night
walks, river activities and greeting the morning sun from above the tree canopies are some of the
strong experiences one can enjoy when staying overnight.

Outside the Park, local communities living in traditional longhouses or in rural villages can be visited,
with some even accommodating tourists in homestay style.

BERAKAS FOREST RECREATION PARK

Muara–Tutong Highway, BANDAR SERI
BEGAWAN – This forest reserve which is located
just off the Muara–Tutong Highway, about 10
kilometres from the capital, covers 199 hectares
of rolling hills covered with heath down to the
coastline where a deserted white sandy beach
stretches invitingly for kilometres in each
direction. The drive into the park is along a
well-posted road that leads past several picnic
shelters, toilets and a lookout tower to a parking
area conveniently located beside the beach.
Open daily 7.45am-6.00pm, admission is free.

LAKE MERIMBUN
TUTONG – Lake Merimbun, 27 kilometres inland from Tutong, has developed into a popular picnic spot
attracting large crowds on Sundays. The shallow freshwater lake is about 500 metres long by 150 metres
wide, fringed by swamp and long grass. In the middle of the lake is an island. Elevated wooden walkways
criss-cross the lake connecting the shore and island at several points. Pavilions built off the walkways
provide benches, tables and shade for picnics.

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 MENDARAM WATERFALL
BELAIT – the tranquil Mendaram Waterfall is enclosed by tall trees. The water feeds a deep pool
that is excellent for swimming. The path to the waterfall starts 3.5 kilometres from the end of the
sealed road at Labi on the left hand side. It is signposted Wasai Kadir. Stepping stones lead across
a stream where the path rises steeply on the opposite bank. Further on, it rises steeply again to
skirt a large boulder fall. Here the path can be treacherous, particularly during the wet season.
The walks to the waterfall take about 15 minutes.

BUKIT SHAHBANDAR FOREST

RECREATION PARK
Muara–Tutong Highway, BANDAR SERI
BEGAWAN – Bukit Shahbandar spills over 70
hectares of undulating land close to the main
Muara–Tutong Highway. A network of well-
maintained and signposted paths criss-cross the
area, and hill peaks and observation towers have
panoramic views towards Muara, across Bandar
Seri Begawan and over Jerudong. Here you will
find the most challenging and wildest trails in
the capital. Climb well-marked footpaths and
have fun sighting plentiful wildlife (including
monkeys), or just take in breathtaking views of
BSB. Alternatively, cycling enthusiasts can take
the mountain bike trail which gets tough in
parts.

This park is one of the most popular trekking

trails among the locals. Open daily 7.45am-
6.00pm, admission is free.

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 Ministry of Tourism of Cambodia
Lot 3A, St. 169, Veal Vong Commune,
Prampi Makara District,
Phnom Penh, Kingdom of Cambodia.
Tel: (855) 23 88 49 74
(Department of Administration
& General Affairs) Tel: (855) 23 88 50 39
(Department of Marketing & Promotion)
Email: info@tourismcambodia.org
Website: www.tourismcambodia.org

KOH RONG SAMLOEM

Koh Rong Samloem is known for its diving and snorkelling, with outfitters Eco Sea, The Dive Shop
and Coral Gardens Dive Centre all based here and others from the mainland like Scuba Nation
running trips here. Eco Sea sunk a boat in August 2014 to create an artificial reef just off M’Pai Bei
village, though the natural reefs are teeming with enough life to keep you entertained underwater.
Many of the places to stay on the island rent out snorkelling gear.

This island stretches from south-east to north-west, encompassing an area of 78 sq. km. The terrain
is predominantly hilly with a sizable mountain (316 meters) at the island’s north-west. The hills
provide water for countless creeks and estuaries. The island’s interior is almost completely forested,
concealing a number of seasonal waterfalls. Koh Rong has around 43 kilometers of delicate beaches.
Tourists can enjoy scuba diving to explore marine life there.

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 SIHANOUKVILLE

Cambodia’s Sihanoukville may top the backpackers’

hitlist, but it’s what lies offshore that has caught our
eye. Song Saa Private Island in the Koh Rong Islands
is an eco-luxe escape spread over a pair of pristine
isles, with thatch and stone villas dotted among
the jungle canopy or lolling above the sea. Being
green-minded has never been so glamorous.

SOKHA BEACH
Sokha Beach is located in Preah Sihanouk province,
about 230km from Phnom Penh. Its fine, silicon-
like sand squeaks loudly underfoot. The tiny
eastern end of Sokha Beach is open to the public
and rarely crowded. The rest is part of the exclusive
Sokha Beach Resort. Tourists can also enjoy diving,
swimming, snorkeling at Sokha Beach.

OCHHEUTEAL BEACH
Located in Commune 3, Preah Sihanouk Province,
Ochheuteal is the most popular beach with the
most beautiful sand, shallow water, and tranquil
sea. The Ochheuteal Beach boasts thatched-roof
shacks and seafood bars very popular with budget
travellers. It also has several seaside restaurants
and bars catering for a cocktail or dinner party.
A nearby hotel offers holiday bungalows and a
beautiful dining room overlooking the spectacular
sea. Tourists can enjoy swimming and scuba diving
organised by the Golden Sand Hotel.

Koh Dèk Koul Resort

Koh Dèk Koul is a small island located about 7km
off the coast of Preah Sihanouk City, in southern
Cambodia. The exclusive Mirax Resort is based on
Koh Dèk Koul. Tourists can enjoy scuba diving and
relax there.

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 Ministry of Tourism,
Republic of Indonesia
Sapta Pesona Building
Jl. Medan Merdeka Barat No.17
Jakarta 10110, Indonesia
Tel: (62) 21 3838167
Fax: (62) 21 3810401
Email: representative@indonesia.travel
Website: www.indonesia.travel

RAJA AMPAT ISLAND

The Raja Ampat islands are truly natural The territory within the islands of the Four
phenomenon with enormous biological Kings is enormous, covering 9.8 million acres
diversity. The amazing marine landscape of land and sea, home to 540 types of corals,
means that underwater photography should more than 1,000 types of coral fish and 700
be on top your list during your stay. Raja types of molluscs. This makes it the most
Ampat or ‘Four Kings’ is the name given to diverse living library for the world’s coral reef
these islands and comes from a local myth. and underwater biota. According to a report
The four major islands found here are Waigeo, developed by The Nature Conservancy and
Misool (which is home to ancient rock Conservation International, around 75% of
paintings), Salawati and Batanta. the world’s species live here. When divers first
arrive here their excitement is palpable.

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 KOMODO NATIONAL PARK

The Komodo Dragon (Varanus komodoensis) is an endangered species which can only be found in
the Komodo National Park (KNP) in East Nusa Tenggara (NTT). Because of the unique and rare nature
of this animal, KNP was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1986. The park includes three
major islands, Komodo, Rinca and Padar as well as numerous smaller islands, together totalling 603km²
of land. The total size of Komodo National Park is presently 1,817km². Proposed extensions of 25km²
of land (Banta Island) and 479km² of marine waters would bring the total surface area up to 2,321km².

KNP has a rich and amazing underwater sea biotica. Divers claim that Komodo waters are one of
the best diving sites in the world. It has fascinating underwater scenery. You can find 385 species of
beautiful corals, mangrove forests and seaweeds as a home for thousands of fish species, 70 types
of sponges, 10 types of dolphins, 6 types of whales, green turtles and various types of sharks and
stingrays.

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 TANJUNG PUTING
Tanjung Puting is located in Central Kalimantan.
The area was originally declared as a game reserve
in 1935 and became a national park in 1982. The
park, which covers a territory the size of Bali, is
home to an amazing array of wildlife including its
world famous orang utans. The park is also home to
monkeys, birds and other wildlife, not to mention
the pristine vegetation of the jungle itself. This is
a world-famous natural treasure which attracts a
growing number of international visitors each year.

Because the vegetation of Tanjung Puting supports

a large population of animals, this park is one of
the most important areas in Southeast Asia for
the preservation of primates, birds, reptiles and
fish. The incredible jungle surrounds make this an
amazing place to visit if you’re after a truly outdoor
adventure. It is an oasis of pure clean air, a clear
night sky and a home to the gentle people of
the jungle – the orang utans. The orang utans are
undoubtedly the best-known inhabitants of the
park, made famous through the work of the Orang
Utan Research and Conservation Program based at
the Camp Leakey research station. Camp Leakey is
an orang utan preserve and the site of the longest
continuous study of any wild animal in the history
of science. With around three quarters of the world’s
orang utan population living on Borneo, this park
is the ideal place to see these incredible creatures
in the wild.

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 MOUNT KELIMUTU NATIONAL PARK

Mt. Kelimutu National Park is the smallest among

six national parks in the stretch between Bali and
the Nusatenggara islands. Its size obviously does
not matter much when it offers one of the most
spectacular wonders that nature has to offer. There
are three lakes on the mountain sharing the same
name, Kelimutu, meaning ‘the boiling lake’. Each
has its own colors and a local name. But all are
believed to be the resting place of departed souls.

Unlike the Blue Lake in Mt. Gambier, South

Australia, that changes colour from blue to cold
steel grey within a predictable period, or Lake
Yudamari in Mt. Nakadake, Japan, that changes
from blue-green to green, the Kelimutu lakes are
unpredictable as to when and what colour they
will change into. Sometimes, the colours are blue,
green, and black, and at some other times they
turn to white, red, and blue. The last time a traveller
saw them, one was dark brown, just like a pond of
chocolate. Previously, the east lake was red and the
middle lake was blue.

MOUNT BROMO
Mount Bromo is a part of the Bromo Tengger
Semeru National Park that covers a massive area
of 800 square kilometres. From a vantage point
on Mount Penanjakan (2,770 meters above sea
level), 2.5 hours from Malang, visitors from around
the world come to see the sunrise over Mt. Bromo.
From this spot the vista is magnificent. Experience
the remarkable Tengger Caldera, Java’s largest, with
its 10km barren desert-like sea of sand. Within the
caldera rise the deeply fissured volcanic cones of
Batok and Bromo – the latter is still active with a
cavernous crater from which smoke blows skyward.

The eerie landscape has spurned countless legends and myths. Mt. Bromo has particular significance
for the Tengger people who believe that this was the site where a brave prince sacrificed his life for
his family. The people here appease the Gods once a year during the annual Kasada festival where
offerings of vegetables, chickens and money are thrown into the crater of the volcano.

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 Department of Tourism Marketing, Ministry of Information,
Culture and Tourism
P.O. Box: 3556, Lane Xang Avenue, Vientiane Capital, Lao PDR.
Tel: (856) 21 212251 Ext 103 or 101
Email: info@tourismlaos.org
Website: www.tourismlaos.org

ROCK CLIMBING THE KHAMMOUANE KARSTS

The climbing area near Thakhek called “Pha climber or beginner, you will have a lot of
Tam Kam” is hidden in a small valley which challenges and amusement!
ends in the back of the beautiful Xiengliab
Cave (12 km outside from Thakhek). For the beginner and advanced climbers,
You will find wonderful routes with tufa’s, Green Climbers home staff offer climbing
sintering and face climbing. The gigantic roof classes. For those who travel without climbing
with routes ranging from 6b+ to around 8a gear it is possible to rent a harness, climbing
is unique. So far there is a total of 150 routes shoes, a rope, quick draws and a belay device.
ranging from 4 to around 8b. Be it advanced

ROCK CLIMBING IN VANG VIENG

Over the past years, Green Discovery has been working with climbers from all around the world to
develop climbing in Vang Vieng area. Two areas were developed with a total of 50 routes ranging
from 5a to 8a+ (French) with all the classic steep limestone jaggy stuff so Climb and enjoy!

Approximately: 15 minutes’ transfer / 1-hour instruction / 3-4 hours climbing per day If you know
anybody with a drill and the skill let them know that there’s a plethora of rocks in shady crags by the
river just waiting for some traffic!

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 Malaysia Tourism Promotion Board
( Tourism Malaysia)
Southeast Asia Division
Level 3, Tower 1, No 2, Jalan P5/6
Precinct 5, 62200 Putrajaya
Tel: (603) 8891 8000
Fax: (603) 8891 8282
Website: www.tourismmalaysia.gov.my

VIA FERRATA MOUNT KINABALU

The majestic Mount Kinabalu is one of the highest mountains in South East Asia standing at
4095.2 metres.

There are two trails to get to the top, Summit Trail and Mesilau Trail. While you do not need special
skills to climb, you must at least have the basic fitness level. Both trails offer fantastic view and the
opportunity to encounter amazing plants.

Apart from traditional mountain climbing, visitors can also experience the Mountain Torq, the
world’s highest, and Asia’s first, Via Ferrata or ‘iron road’ at 3,200m to 3,800m above sea level. The
various routes on the northern rock faces of Mount Kinabalu consist of a ‘trail’ that is made up
of iron rungs, palettes, cables and rails. Depending on the preferred difficulty level, visitors can
enroll in various activities such as the intro to single pitch or multi pitch sports climbing, intro to
rappelling (abseiling) and introduction to rope ascending.

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 DIVING IN MABUL ISLAND

Mention Mabul Island and visions of swaying photographer’s dream location to capture
coconut trees and idyllic water villages come to some of the rarest ecological species on film.
mind. And that’s just above the water. Located Flamboyant cuttlefish, blue-ringed octopus,
only about 15 minutes by speedboat from the spike-fin gobies, frogfish and moray eels are
famous Sipadan Island, Mabul has gained its just some of the spectacular critters you will
own recognition as one of the best muck-diving encounter beneath the waters of Mabul.
(a term used to describe limited visibility dives
at shallow sites with usually sandy bottoms) sites Although all the excitement is underwater, you
in the world. can always set your scuba gear aside for a day
to laze on Mabul’s soft sand to work on your tan.
Mabul is a small oval-shaped island fringed by
sandy beaches and perched on the northwest
corner of a larger 200-hectare reef. The reef is on
the edge of the continental shelf and the seabed
surrounding the reef slopes out to 25–30m deep.
Mabul is also renowned for its amazing
array of macrolife, making it an underwater

CAVING IN MULU CAVES

The cave is probably the largest natural limestone
cave in Peninsular Malaysia. Located within the
vicinity of Gopeng, 24km south of Ipoh, the cave
is approximately 1.5km long. Made up of five
huge domes with a ceiling resembling coconut
shells, each dome had different formations of
stalagmites and stalactites. The domes also differ
from one another in terms of temperature, water
level, content of limestone and marble.

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 GUNUNG LEDANG/MOUNT OPHIR
Shrouded in mystical legends and folklore, she fled to the mountain and continues to live
Gunung Ledang continues to charm and in a hidden cave, to this day.
intrigue locals and visitors alike. According to
the legend of the Princess of Gunung Ledang, The mountain is ideal for a myriad of outdoor
the Sultan of Melaka wanted the Princess’ activities with challenging mountain trails, icy
hand in marriage and she, not wanting to waterfalls, and exotic flora and fauna, including
marry him, demanded that the Sultan present many species of birds. At the relatively flat
her with seven jars of women’s tears, seven summit, which is 1,276m above sea level, a
trays of mosquitoes’ hearts and seven bowls of panoramic view of the Straits of Melaka and
the Sultan’s son’s blood. After he was unable to even the Sumatran coastline can been seen
meet these impossible requests, on a clear day. Sagil Waterfall is also a popular
picnic spot at the base of the mountain.

TREE TOP WALK SUNGAI SEDIM

The 950m-long Tree Top Walk in the Sedim
River Recreation Park is the longest canopy
walk in the world. The Tree Top Walk Sedim
River was built within the lowland of
dipterocarp compartment 15 of Gunung Inas
Forest Reserve.

The spectacular view you get when you stroll

through the jungle canopy is the main draw
for visitors from far and wide to this quiet, all-
natural corner of Kedah.

Strolling high above the ground of this

primeval rainforest affords visitors an
unexpected and exciting perspective. Call it
a “monkey’s eye view”. Visitors will enjoy the
fabulous sight of rushing streams and truly
fascinating flora and fauna – all from 50m up!

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 Ministry of Hotels and Tourism
Building No. 33, Nay Pyi Taw
The Republic of the Union of Myanmar
Tel: (95) 67 406454,406061,
406130, 406248
Email: mo.moht@mptmail.net.mm,
dg.dht@mptmail.net.mm, dg.dhtd@
mptmail.net.mm
Website: www.myanmartourism.org

BIKING AROUND MANDALAY

Using the historic town of Mandalay as a jumping off point, cyclists can experience a truly
“authentic” Myanmar. Discover the city’s narrow alleyways and bustling markets, as well as the
surrounding areas. It’s a short bike ride to cultural treasures such as the Shwenandaw Monastery,
the Kuthodaw Pagoda, and the outsize Buddha in repose at Mahamuni Pagoda. Moving into the
countryside, the paved roads give way to gravel and mud trails, and the river valley surroundings
come into their own, revealing a relaxing, natural panorama. The road to Amarapura takes you
across the U Bein Bridge, the longest teak bridge in the world, and eventually leads to the former
royal capital of Ava.

The river valley terrain around Mandalay is easiest to cycle during the cooler and drier months
between October and February.

DIVING THE MERGUI ARCHIPELAGO

Although they are geographically located in Myanmar, the waters of the Mergui Archipelago – a
chain of over 800 islands in the Andaman Sea – can only be reached by liveaboard dive boats that
leave from the nearby Thai ports of Phuket, Khao Lak and Ranong. The dive sites here have only
been open to the international dive community since 1997 so the reefs are still pristine. And with
over 36,000 square km of marine territory, much of the area remains unexplored. It requires about
10 days to dive around the archipelago’s top sites, including mysterious caves, rock walls and
massive seamounts. Surprisingly, there is an abundance of marine life to see as well.
The liveaboard tours operate from October to May, when water conditions are optimum, and from
Thailand the boats stop in Myanmar at Kaw Thaung for immigration purposes. Visiting divers must
bring passports and a USD 200 visa fee.

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 Tourism Promotions Board,
Philippines
4th Floor, Legaspi Towers
300 Roxas Boulevard, Manila
Philippines 1004
Tel: (63) 2 525 9318 to 27
Fax: (63) 2 521 6165
Email: info@tpb.gov.ph
Website: tpb.gov.ph

WHALE SHARK ADVENTURE

DONSOL – WHALESHARK ADVENTURE & TOURS

Swim and interact with WHALE SHARKs, the largest gentle fish in the world! Go for island hopping,
take a dip in crystal-clear waters or a splash in our natural hot and cold spring resort! Opt for
diving at world-famous Manta Bowl with the sightings of Oceanic Manta rays, Treshershark and
Hammerheads or catch the splendour of our water panorama! Climb our mountains and trek
the majestic Mayon Volcano.

EL-NIDO
El Nido really is a magical place. From its
ageless towering marble cliffs to its white
sandy beaches with crystal clear water,
many refer to it as paradise. There are over
50 beaches to discover, so many in fact that
sometimes you feel as if you are on your own
secluded private beach. You will also find
enchanting lagoons with tranquil turquoise-
green water, caves that can take you to hidden
beaches, and a very diverse variety of wildlife.

MOUNT PINATUBO
There is more to the lava-filled valleys and
boulders – the true gem of Mt. Pinatubo is its
crater lake. You can view this famous lake after
2.5 hours of trekking.

PUERTO PRINCESA SUBTERRANEAN RIVER

Puerto Princesa’s pride is easily the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River (or Underground River), a UNESCO
World Heritage Site and one of the New 7 Wonders of Nature.

The 8.2km river, said to be the longest navigable underground river in the world, winds its way underneath
a mountain range, through the St. Paul Underground River Cave, before going out into the South China
Sea. The journey through the cave system alone is 24 kilometers long.

The entire area where the Underground River is located is actually a national park and a model of
biodiversity. More than 800 plant species, including almost 300 trees, 195 bird species, 30 mammals, 19
reptiles and eight bat species call this area home.

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 Source: Resorts World Sentosa

Singapore Tourism Board

Tourism Court
1 Orchard Spring Lane
Singapore 247729
Tel: (65) 6736 6622
Fax: (65) 6736 9423
Website: www.yoursingapore.com

RESORTS WORLD SENTOSA (RWS) – SHARK DIVE AND OPEN OCEAN DIVE
OPEN OCEAN DIVE
Immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring Open Ocean habitat, the centrepiece of S.E.A. Aquarium.
Descend up to 12 metres to marvel at majestic manta rays, groupers, and schools of fish swimming
in unison for an unforgettable close encounter with the ocean’s gentle giants.

Note: SCUBA-certification is required.

SHARK DIVE
Experience the thrill of swimming with the apex
predators of the seas! Dive into our Shark Seas Habitat
for the rare opportunity to get up close and personal
with over 100 sharks from 12 different species, including
the endangered scalloped hammerhead shark, silvertip
shark and sandbar shark.

Source: Resorts World Sentosa

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 Tourism Authority of Thailand
1600 New Phetchaburi Road, Makkasan,
Ratchathevi, Bangkok 10400, THAILAND
Tel: (662) 250 5500
TAT Contact Center: 1672
Website: www.tourismthailand.org

FAMOUS DIVE SITES OF THE ANDAMAN SEA: MU KO LANTA NATIONAL PARK

Mu Ko Lanta National Park in Krabi province is a

destination for famous dive sites of the Andaman
Sea among divers from all over the world, as it is
blessed with an abundance of natural resources,
both on land and in the water. It consists of over
20 beautiful islands and comprises beach forests,
mangrove forests and an intriguing collection of
marine life. Hin Daeng, Hin Muang and Mu Ko Ha
are the famous dive sites in Mu Ko Lanta National
Park. “Hin Daeng” or “red rock” is one of the world’s
top ten dive spots with the dazzling array of red
soft corals that cover the pinnacle making the rock
glowing red during beautiful sunset while “Hin
Muang” or “purple rock” is full of soft corals, sea
anemone, and a remarkable variety of fish.

Divers can enjoy spotting an amazing range of

marine creatures; such as, lobster, ghost pipefish,
and squid. If lucky, divers might spot barracuda,
manta rays, moray eels, leopard sharks, whale
sharks, and grey reef sharks.

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 DIVING WITH THE GIANT WHALE
SHARK: MU KO CHUMPHON

There are over 41 islands in Chumphon Sea,

however, only 7-8 islands have popular and
beautiful diving spots especially Ngam Islands.
The undersea world around the “Ko Ngam Noi
and Ko Ngam Yai” is full of huge brain corals,
staghorn corals and colourful sea anemones
dancing to the rhythm of the stream. These corals
and sea anemones provide food and shelter
for various species of colourful sea fish such as
butterfly fish, clownfish, angelfish, rabbit fish, etc.
If you are lucky, you might see the friendly giant
whale shark swimming around to find food in the
waters of these two islands. The most beautiful
diving spot in Chumphon Sea is at “Ko Lak Ngam”
with the approximate depth of 9-20 m. Here you
will find the amazing colourful branches of one
of the thickest black coral reefs in Thailand. You
can also see the red sea whip, large colonies of
sea anemone, schools of different species of fish
and a large number of phyllidia coelestis.

About a 100m away from the North of Ko Ngam

Yai, you can see a pile of rocks known as “Hin
Phae” that is full of Black corals, Sea whip and
Corallimorph. It is a home of big fish like Whale
shark, Barracuda, Round batfish, Red snapper,
Jackfish and large schools of yellow stripe trevally
swimming around including Leopard shark and
Stingray.

“Ran Pet & Ran Kai” are two small islands that have the very rich deep-sea coral reefs containing black
corals in different colours-light yellow, white and gold, as well as Red neptune’s cup sponge, Red
sea whip, Yellow-band fusilier and Saw blade shrimp. “Ko Mattra” is the best snorkelling spot in the
area with massive coral and brain coral reefs, white clownfish with black spots and small Rabbit fish.
Moreover, there are several small coral reefs under the sea around “Ko Thalu” and “Ko Langka Chio”
which are homes of big fish such as Rabbit fish, Fusilier and sometimes Blacktip reef shark.

Know Before You Go

“You can most often see the whale shark in April. By the way, the National Park does offer boat trips
for tourists”

Recommendation
“Stay over at Mattra Island”

Travel Info
From Chumphon town, drive along Highway 4001 for about 7km to Tha Yang Pier. Lots of local buses
and taxis can take you there. An easier way is to book a tour package with Chumphon Cabana Resort.

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 THE BEST DIVE SITE IN THAILAND; VISITING A CONDOMINIUM OF MARINE LIFE:
MU KO SURIN

The Surin Islands comprise five main islands,

including two large islands consisting of Ko Surin
Nuea and Ko Surin Tai which are adjacent to each
other like twin islands. They are separated by the
200m-width shallow sea where “Richelieu Rock” –
one of the best places in the world to encounter
whale sharks and a vast array of spectacular marine
life – is located. With a depth of 5-37m towards
the south of the dive site and colourful soft corals
decking the intricate peppering of granite pinnacles,
it deserves at least three dives where you will still
keep discovering new stuff. Tigertail Seahorses,
Ghostpipe fish, Frogfish, Octopus, Cuttlefish, many
different varieties of Scorpionfish, Lionfish, Pipefish,
Cleaner shrimps, Moray eels including White Mouth
Morays, Rays, Nudibranchs, Barracuda, Trivially, Jacks,
Tuna, Groupers, Harlequin shrimps and more make
Richelieu Rock their home – like a condominium for
marine animals.

The other three islands (Ko Mangkon, Ko Klang and

Ko Torinla) are small rock islands with some dwarf
trees and rainforest plants. They are a source of
the biggest and best fertile shallow coral reef in
Thailand, and in many places the reefs have grown
right up to just 1m or so below the water’s surface,
bringing the marine life that much closer to the
snorkeler, particularly at Ko Torinla in the south and
Ko Mangkon in the west. Here, you will be amazed
with very healthy coral reefs in different colours.
Other snorkeller sites that are worth to visit include
Mai Ngam Bay and Suthep Bay.

RAINFOREST ADVENTURE IN THE MAJESTIC TREETOPS: CHIANG MAI

Take an adventure and enjoy the scenic jungle from the top view. An unique sling tour at the top of
the tree will show you a green fertile tropical jungle and raise your adrenaline as you will glide along
the zipline on a very high tree that you cannot see its top with your bare eyes through different layers
of the rainforest canopy in pretty much the same fashion like the monkeys.

The next thing you hear is the sound of your own shriek and see different kinds of birds flying around,
apes, and boars running below.

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 RAPPELLING INTO THE SINKHOLE: UNLOCK THE WORLD MYSTERY SPIRIT
WELL CAVE

The Spirit Well Cave, also known in Thai as “Tham Nam

Bo Phi”, is Lahu people’s spirit cave. It is considered the
biggest and deepest sinkhole in Thailand with a size
as big as two football fields. The most amazing part is
the 140m depth, measured from the opening to the
lowest point. The only way in and out is by one-hour
rappelling down and two-hour climbing up the ropes.
Cavers have to trust their lives with 2 strings of ropes
and a few pieces of equipment for rappelling to the
lush rainforest down there.

Once reaching the floor of the sinkhole, you will

be stunned by thousands of beautiful stalactites in
different sizes on the ceiling of this vast cave. The fault
lines of rock layers at the cave’s wall, as well as piles
of rocks falling down on the slopes, which is covered
with fine-grained dust, provide evidence of its age
which is thousands of years. You will feel like you have
journeyed back to the pre-historic era, especially when
you look around and find that you are surrounded by
lush green rainforest and the sound of birds chirping
from the deep forest far away. After sunset, fog will
descend downwards to the bottom of the sinkhole. At
sunrise, you will see the golden sun shining down the
hole, making it even more excitingly mysterious.

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 Viet Nam National Administration of
Tourism
80 Quan Su Str., Hoan Kiem Dist., Ha Noi,
Viet Nam
Tel: (84-4) 3942 3760, Fax: (84-4) 3942 4115
Website: www.vietnamtourism.com

BACH MA MOUNTAIN
Location: Bach Ma (White Horse) Mountain waterfalls. Sixteen kilometres on Cau Hai-
is located in Phu Loc District, 60km from the Bach Ma road, after turning left and walking
south of Hue City. for 20 to 30 minutes, tourists will also find
the magnificent 400m-high, 20m-wide Do
Characteristic: It is about 1,450m above sea Quyen Waterfall which suddenly appears as if
level in a transition zone of the northern and it were suspended in the sky. In the summer,
southern climate, so it bears a temperate rhododendron flowers bloom on both sides of
climate, similar to Sa Pa, Tam Dao, Da Lat, etc. the fall like two huge flowery silk carpets. At
the centre of the resort is Bac (Silver) Waterfall,
There, the green vegetation is abundant all only 10m-high and 40m-wide, looking like a
year round. The animals are also rich with spotless white curtain swayed by the wind.
chirps and calls all day and night which sound
both wild and familiar. Bach Ma Mount also More than half a century ago, the French
has many limpid brooks and picturesque recognised the beauty of Bach Ma and began

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 to develop it. Within five years (1942-1946), 139
villas were continuously built under the foliage
of old trees and by sheer cliffs. From the top of
Bach Ma, people can view landscapes of Hai
Van Pass, Tuy Van Mount, Cau Hai Lagoon with
heaving fishing boats and even the shimmering
electrical lights of Hue city at night as well as the
huge and boundless Eastern Sea.

Visiting Bach Ma Mountain, visitors do not miss

the opportunity to conquer a series of unique
trails only for people who love wildlife. It takes
at least one day to explore each trail without any
special climbing equipment. There are five trails
for visitors to choose, including Tri Sao Trail, Do
Quyen Waterfall Trail, Ngu Ho Waterfall Trail, Hai
Vong Dai Trail and Rung Cho Den Trail, of which
Hai Vong Dai is the most popular trail.

CU LAO CHAM (CHAM ISLANDS)

Location: Cu Lao Cham (Cham Islands) is situated in Tan Hiep Commune, Hoi An City, about 20
kilometres off the Cua Dai coast.

Characteristics: It consists of eight islets set very close together in the shape of an arc – Hon Lao, Hon
Kho Me, Hon Kho Con, Hon Tai, Hon Dai, Hon La, Hon Mo and Hon Ong – serving as a protective barrier
for the ancient town. The area is renowned for its beauty, clean and vast biodiversity with pristine
white sandy beaches and crystal-clear water.

From Cua Dai coast, after about 20 minutes by hydrofoil or 25 to 30 minutes by high-speed canoe
or if someone wants to enjoy the beautiful view from tourist boat, which will take about 60 to 90

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 minutes depending on the weather, travellers will
reach Cu Lao Cham, which is abundant in tourism
potential. Various tourist activities are offered to
meet almost all tourist demands. Tourists can relax,
go hunting, fishing and get the chance to view sea
swallow’s nests clinging to the towering cliff. Tourists
can admire the beauty of corals by diving. The best
season for diving is summer (from June to the end
of August) when sunlight is strongest. Cu Lao Cham
is popular for its seafood and delicacies (octopuses,
lobsters, fish’s fin, abalone, kaki, cholonia’s eggs
and birds’ nests) and fascinating souvenirs (pearls,
conches and tortoise’s shells).

FANSIPAN MOUNTAIN

Location: Fansipan Mountain is located 9km

southwest of Sa Pa Townlet in the Hoang Lien
Mountain Range

Characteristics: Fansipan is known as “the Roof of

Indochina” at the height of 3,143m. It is acknowledged
as one of the very few eco-tourist spots in Viet Nam,
with about 2,024 flora varieties and 327 fauna species.

The topography of Fansipan is varied. Muong Hoa

Valley, at the lowest altitude of 950-1,000m, is created
by a narrow strip of land at the base of the east side
of the mountain.

The summit of Fansipan is accessible all year round,

but the best time to make the ascent is from mid-
October to mid-November, and again in March.

Foreigners prefer to book Fansipan tours between

October and December, as this period is more often
than not free from the heavy rains that obstruct the
jaunt. But the Vietnamese prefer their tours to the
peak of the mountain from February to April, as it is
not so cold then. However, the best time for a trek to
the top of mountain is from the end of February to
the start of March, when the flowers all flourish and
climbers may see carpets of brilliant blossoms, from
violets and orchids to rhododendrons and Aglaia’s.

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 HON MUN ISLAND

Location: Hon Mun Island is situated on the south

of Nha Trang Bay, Nha Trang City, Khanh Hoa
Province.

Characteristic: Hon Mun has high-rise cliffs with

dangerous wattles forming caves and grottoes,
with stones are as black as ebony, which could
rarely be found in other areas.

In the black stone caves of Hon Mun, flocks of

swallow migrate to the area every year to build
their nests. Due to the island’s location adjacent
to the hot sea-currents from the equator, which is
an ideal condition for corals and various types of
tropical sea creatures, the sea bed of Hon Mun is
home to an abundant and diverse group of marine
species, providing an interesting and useful place
for researchers, oceanographers and tourists to
learn more about marine life.

In Hon Mun, visitors can dive or take grass-bottom

boats to admire the colourful coral and sea
creatures.

LANGBIANG MOUNTAIN
Location: In Lac Duong Town, Lac Duong District,
in the Central Highlands province of Lam Dong,
about 12km north of the centre of Da Lat City.

Characteristics: The mountain is well known for its

primeval and mighty scenery and is said to be the
rooftop of the Lam Vien plateau. The mountain
has two peaks, with one reaching a height of
2,169m and the other, 1,950m. A trip to conquer the 2,169m peak will
challenge visitors physically. Visitors can take
The 1,950m peak can be reached by trekking a the same road to the 1,950m peak but will
long zigzagging path through a pine forest or then need to make a right turn into another
driving self-supported cars. At the peak, there is a path as they get nearer to the peak. The peak
flower garden, statues of K’lang and H’biang and can be reached by trekking through primeval
souvenir shops. From here, visitors can view as far forests in changeable weather for at least two
as Vang (Gold) and Bac (Silver) streams winding hours and then climbing up steep mountain
below and the entire Da Lat City far away. cliffs for two hours more.

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 Your Free Copy
Published by
Tourism Malaysia, Ministry of Tourism and Culture, Malaysia

ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. No portion of this publication may be reproduced in

whole or part without the written permission of the publisher. While every effort
has been made to ensure that the information contained herein is correct at
the time of publication, Tourism Malaysia shall not be held liable for any errors,
omissions or inaccuracies which may occur.

August 2016

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