Cambodia
Soak up the sights and sounds of Cambodia, from the busy capital, Phnom Penh, to the majestic temples of Angkor. Highlights of this eight-day cultural tour include a cruise across the Tonle Sap, a visit to the Prek Toal floating village and its community water hyacinth weaving project, a boat ride to the village of Battambang and a ride through the village's paddy fields on a "bamboo train" (actually a bamboo platform mounted on wheels, powered by a go-kart engine). The trip ends with a free afternoon in Bangkok.
The tour costs from Dh4,370 per person, based on two sharing, including transport, accommodation and meals. International airfare not included. Book through www.responsibletravel.com.
Andaman Islands, India
Cox & Kings has a five-day tour to the Andaman Islands, part of a tiny archipelago in the Indian Ocean. This five-day "Emerald Islands" trip starts with a quick tour of Port Blair, the capital, with an afternoon visit to Chidiya Tapu, a small fishing village about 25km from Port Blair, famous for its lush mangroves and beautiful beaches. Also on the itinerary are an excursion to North Bay Island in a glass-bottomed boat and a journey to Havelock Island by ferry to explore some of the best beaches and dive sites in the world.
The tour costs from Dh982 per person, including accommodation, meals, local transport, all excursions by boat or ferry, and taxes. International airfare not included. Visit www.coxandkings.ae to book or call toll free 800 3570 2470.
Shanghai, China
The Langham hotel, situated in the heart of Xintiandi, Shanghai's entertainment and shopping district, is offering new packages. Choose from a range of weekend deals, such as the "Perfectly Langham" package from 2,185 yuan (Dh1,273) per night, which includes breakfast, internet and international telephone calls. The "Tailor-made" package costs from 2,482 yuan (Dh1,446) per night, including a 10am check-in and any three of the following - breakfast, internet, dry-cleaning (two items upon arrival) or a one-way airport transfer. A minimum two-night stay is required. The deals are valid for stays until December 31. Visit xintiandi.langhamhotels.com or call 00 86 21 2330 2288 for more information.
Japan
Cherry blossom season is one of the best times to visit Japan, and this "Japan Panorama" tour by Bales Worldwide in late March-early April is perfectly timed. Journey by boat, bus and bullet train from Tokyo to Hiroshima, Kyoto and Nara; participate in a traditional tea ceremony; sample local cuisine; walk around Takayama's old town; take a cable car to the hot springs in Owakudani, Hakone; and go on a boat ride on Lake Ashi.
The two-week tour costs from Dh19,000 per person, including accommodation, meals, transport, sightseeing, plus one night in a ryokan in Kyoto. International airfare not included. To book, visit www.balesworldwide.com.
