A touring holiday to the Far East is generally focussed on a number of the region’s world famous sights and experiences. Although it’s often hard to refine ones choice to a manageable level we would suggest that it’s worth considering including one or more elements that take you slightly off the beaten track or are less visited but no less fascinating or beautiful.
As the world continues to develop, a simple step to the left or right often reveals a more authentic snap shot of the country you’re exploring.
Below are 3 examples, one inland surrounded by nature and the others less visited up-and-coming island beach destinations. Others can be suggested, so please put us to the test.
Pu Luong Retreat - North Vietnam
Just 4 hours by car from Hanoi, the Pu Luong Retreat sits perfectly at the beginning, middle or end of any touring holiday. It can also be your first stop in an adventure holiday off the beaten track.
Perched on a hillside in beautiful Pu Luong National Park, the Retreat offers easy access to the stunning hill country, terraced paddy fields and rivers by foot, bike or kayak. Alternatively you can just admire the view from the sun terrace or infinity pool - so, yes off the beaten track but no sacrifice in comfort. Pu Long is everything you’d imagine from a stay in North Vietnam: magnificent limestone mountain scenery, layer upon layer of rice terrace fields, untamed rivers & waterfalls and traditional farming villages. Base yourself here for 2 or 3 days and you can pack in as much or as little as you like before resuming your touring holiday.
Example Holidays: Top & Tail Vietnam - North & South
Best Time of Year to Visit - Late March through May or October / November
Wa Ale Island Resort - Myeik Archipelago - Myanmar (Burma)
Look at the map of Burma and you can’t help but have your eyes drawn to the ribbon of coast that stretches down next to Thailand and the islands that sit just above the border. Welcome to the Myeik Archipelago. There are few places left in the world that can offer the splendid isolation the islands of this beautiful archipelago boast. The added bonus is that you can now travel from Ranong in Thailand (1 hour flight from Bangkok or 3 hour drive from Phuket) and travel by boat direct to your island.
The islands now have a few small luxury hotels and although they are relatively expensive, they deliver everything you dream of when you read the words "barefoot luxury". They are just the cherries that sit atop a beautiful cake.
Arguably the best is the Wa Ale Island Resort, an intimate resort nestled into its own jungle clad cove a few steps from the crescent of white sand beach. Set in the Lampi Marine National Park this private eco-tourism wildlife reserve offers visitors access to the abundant natural beauty of indigenous flora and fauna above and below the waves from a position of extreme yet sustainable comfort.
More Details: The Wa Ale Resort
Best Time of Year to Visit - Late October to April
Con Son Island - South Vietnam
Just a short flight from Saigon brings you to this former penal colony that now seems destined to become one of South East Asia’s up and coming beach destinations. All the necessary natural 
attractions are in place as the Con Dao Islands are a maritime and terrestrial National Park and is at the forefront of Vietnam’s marine conservation as an important nesting site for Hawksbill and Green turtles that come ashore from June to September, as well as the very rare dugong.
The mountainous interior covered in forest, with ample opportunity for hiking through the jungle, whilst the coast is dotted with long sweeping coves, boasting some beautiful beaches and snorkelling sites.
There are currently just a few hotels to choose from and the deluxe Six Senses Hideaway and boutique first class Poulo Condor Boutique Resort & Spa stand head and shoulders above the competition.
As ever places rarely improve with popularity, so make it a "must do” next time you visit Vietnam.
Example Holiday: Vietnam Essentials (with Beach)
Best Time of Year to Visit - Driest = December to March. Calmest Sea = April to August (short sharp showers)
