Explore the Best of Northwest Thailand by Bike (9 Days / 8 Nights)

Life in Thailand is rarely anything other than laid-back and this approach to existence is especially celebrated in the far northwest. A peaceful area where rolling mountains punctuated by idyllic river valleys work their way up to the borders with Laos and China, this is a place to kick back and enjoy the simple pleasures of life. One of these, of course, is eating well, and there’s no shortage of great food in this part of Thailand.

Northern cuisine with its mild yet flavourful curries and stews reigns supreme in the northwest, but guests will also have the opportunity to sample barbeque and traditional hill tribe dishes as they work their way northwest by bike from Chiang Mai. Food will supply ample ballast for an epic journey through some of the country’s most stirring countryside. Beginning and ending in Chiang Mai, the route takes in fascinating villages, imposing caves as well as quiet temples and lakes.

For further information, get in touch with one of our expert travel consultants at [email protected] or view the full itinerary here.

 

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Adventure

Epic routes, top-notch equipment, specialised guides- read all about EXO Adventure

  • Adventure

    Epic routes, top-notch equipment, specialised guides- read all about EXO Adventure

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    Trailblazing Talents: EXO Indonesia’s Adventure Guide Training
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    Trailblazing Talents: EXO Indonesia’s Adventure Guide Training

    EXO Indonesia’s Adventure team just returned from a retreat to the island of Flores. Over the course of five days, they participated in skills trainings, team building activities and, of course, adventures.‘This trip is a great opportunity for us to break the ice and connect after an intense and wonderful season’, explains Eka Putri, EXO Indonesia Adventure Manager. ‘Over the last decade, the team has grown from 9 to 28 people’.The retreat consisted of two components: Adventure Leadership training and Adventure Tour Leaders gathering. The former focused on developing leadership skills and group management while the latter was an opportunity to reinforce to the entire team EXO’s quality standards and sustainability policies.‘This training is crucial to improve the leadership skills of our guides in Flores when they lead trips’, Eka explains. ‘It is also a great opportunity to meet in person and clarify our standards and EXO expectations in the field’.In addition, the gathering provided a valuable exchange of ideas and to hear feedback from the guides about how EXO Adventure can continue to enhance our service quality. EXO Adventure Epic routes, great gear and support teams raise the bar on each EXO Adventure journey but it is our guides…

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    Pedalling Perfection: EXO’s Japan Cycling Adventures
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    Pedalling Perfection: EXO’s Japan Cycling Adventures

    Kit Loose, EXO Japan Adventure Product Development Manager, shares his perspective on the joys of cycling in Japan and what makes EXO’s trips truly extraordinary. Kit first visited Japan as a 14-year-old, when his family moved to Tokyo for a few years. It didn’t take him long to fall in love with the country and its people. He has been returning ever since and recently joined the EXO Adventure team, where he balances his time between developing customised routes, training guides and drivers, leading group cycling trips and seeking out the best bowl of ramen. ‘I don't have to work hard to sell Japan,’ Kit admits. ‘Japan sells itself because of its gracious people - there is no other place like it in terms of the people. Add to that the spectacular scenery, the food and it is incredibly safe.’ As the country’s burgeoning popularity as a tourist destination in recent years has brought challenges of overcrowding, there are still plenty of authentic, lesser known corners of Japan. EXO Adventure specialises in cycling trips that showcase these quieter places- we asked Kit to explain more. 'We aim to steer guests away from the beaten path, deliver authentic experiences. There is…

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    5 Things to expect on an EXO Adventure
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    5 Things to expect on an EXO Adventure

    Nobody does adventure travel like EXO! With more than thirty years of experience delivering epic adrenaline-fuelled holidays, we know what it takes to make an adventure journey unforgettable. It takes more than just knowing our destinations and having good gear, it is a combination of elements that takes our adventures to the next level. Whether it's navigating the rugged terrains on a bike, paddling through serene or challenging waters, or exploring hidden trails, each EXO Adventure trip is designed to deliver a unique and unforgettable experience. To understand what sets EXO Adventure apart, we’re sharing five core elements that underscore our commitment to delivering epic adventures. Read on to learn more. EXO Adventure guides receive specialised, ongoing training covering topics such as group management, emergency response, mechanics and more. Specialised adventure guides Our guides are the heart and soul of our adventures. Explorers at heart, they have traversed their countries seeking out the most exhilarating and scenic trails, waterways and backroads. They possess an unmatched passion for their homeland and love sharing it with fellow adventurers. As the safety and enjoyment of our guests are paramount, EXO also ensures our adventure guides receive specialised, ongoing training covering topics such as…

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    Sabah Wildlife Adventure
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    Sabah Wildlife Adventure

    We talk with Rosa Minggu, EXO Head of Inbound & Adventure- Malaysia & Singapore, about creating this adventure and her favourite highlights along the way.'Wildlife and adventure plus amazing accommodation in the jungles and wetlands– this journey is impressive!', Rosa exclaims.Exploring on foot, by boat, by jeep and snorkelling, EXO's 11-day Sabah Wildlife Adventure is purposefully designed to showcase the best of Borneo’s natural wonders.Rosa is from the neighbouring state of Sarawak and is passionate about Borneo's nature and wildlife. She explains, ''With this tour we wanted to cover all of Sabah's highlights with a great mix of experiences.' As an introduction to Sabah’s rich ecosystems, the trip begins with visits to two important animal conservation projects: Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre and the Sun Bear Conservation Centre. These insightful visits are complemented by a canopy walk at the Rainforest Discovery Centre, providing a first look at the raw beauty of Malaysia’s natural flora and fauna.Then it’s on to the Kinabatangan River and Tabin Wildlife Reserve for a closer look. Through a series of boat trips and nature walks, guests will have the opportunity to spot endemic wildlife- such as elephants, gibbons and proboscis monkeys- in their native habitat. There is…

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    Cycling Vietnam’s Heritage Trail: Hue to Nha Trang
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    Cycling Vietnam’s Heritage Trail: Hue to Nha Trang

    EXO Vietnam Adventure Manager, Dzung, takes us along for the ride as she shares stories of her favourite cycling journey‘Cycling Vietnam's Heritage Trail: Hue to Nha Trang is unique because it’s a mixture of everything that Vietnam has to offer.''Guests have the opportunity to visit the heritage sites of Hue and Hoi An, see the stunning scenery, explore villages and relax on the beach. It also has plenty of roads with breathtaking views,’ Dzung explains.The adventure begins with a scenic coastal ride from the historic town of Hue to Lang Co fishing village, followed the next day by a challenging ride over Hai Van Pass. The hard work is rewarded with incredible views and an exhilarating downhill ride into Hoi An. A two-night stay in Hoi An, another heritage town, is punctuated by a pedal out to the My Son archeological site. 'We share the cycling route with the local people- they come say hello and give high fives.'From Hoi An, the journey continues south with a series of beautiful coastal rides on days 5-8. Along the way guests will visit My Lai for a sobering but insightful visit to the infamous war site, as well as Qui Nhon, a strategic…

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    Cycling Remote Cambodia
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    Cycling Remote Cambodia

    Cycling Remote Cambodia is one of EXO's favourite, off-the-beaten track itineraries. Adventure Supervisor, Mala Ouk, shares his point of view about what makes this journey so special. ‘Cycling is the best way to explore Cambodia and this 8-day route takes guests to the most authentic parts of the country’, Mala explains. ‘On the bikes, they will get so many opportunities to interact with local people and feel immersed in the life and culture of Cambodia’ The adventure kicks off in the capital city, Phnom Penh.  After warming up with a day ride to Oudong Temple, the real bike journey begins in earnest with a 90-km pedal to charming Kampong Cham for an overnight stay. From there, the bike route continues to the towns of Kratie, Stung Treng and Preah Vihear before wrapping up in Siem Reap.  The distances range from 45-90 kilometres per day in the saddle, but a support vehicle is available for any guests who need a rest. As they pedal along this route, riders will experience the beauty of the Cambodian countryside, passing small villages, farm land and loads of friendly, welcoming locals. 'We can observe the people’s daily lifestyle which is truly authentic.' Off the bikes, an…

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    Sumatra Trekking Challenge
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    Sumatra Trekking Challenge

    Indonesia is an adventure-lovers paradise, with its incredibly diverse landscapes and unspoiled nature. With EXO’s Sumatra Trekking Challenge, our adventure team shines a light on one of Southeast Asia’s most spectacular wilderness areas with an intense but highly rewarding trek. Indonesia Adventure Manager, Eka Putri, picks this as  her favourite adrenaline-pumping adventure.‘In Sumatra, any traveller can see orangutans within a one day trek. But with this Sumatra Trekking Challenge we invite true adrenaline junkies to go deeper into the dense jungle to discover not just orangutans, but other wildlife they have never seen before’, Eka explains.The journey kicks off with a 3-4 hour drive from Medan, the capital of North Sumatra, to the charming village of Bukit Lawang, the gateway to Gunung Leuser National Park. A short, easy, 'warm up’ trek gives guests their first glimpse of the jungle before returning to town for the evening.  On day two, with the comforts of the eco-lodge left behind, the true jungle experience begins. Over the next four days, the trekking route journeys deeper and deeper into the heart of the rainforest- a full immersion into nature. 'The trip was way more than expected, beautiful surroundings, challenging walks and climbs up and down topped off with amazing food and…

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    Beautifuls Beasts of Asia
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    Beautifuls Beasts of Asia

    The Asian continent teems with exotic wildlife, offering guests insight into some of the oldest and most pristine habitats on earth, as well as opportunities to explore them. Through the EXO Foundation, we play an active role in protecting this precious natural heritage of Asia and, by extension, partners working with us do too. That's something we can all feel proud of! In celebration of this, here is a roundup of some incredible creatures of Asia, where to find them and some details regarding wildlife conservation projects we support to ensure they are protected for travelers, locals and future generations. Want to learn more about nature-focused tours in Asia? PROBOSCIS MONKEY INDONESIAN & MALAYSIAN BORNEO Instantly recognisable thanks to its oddly charming nose, these unforgettable beasts are endemic to the island of Borneo. Living in mangroves and humid forests, proboscis monkeys are strong swimmers and are likely to be seen with a cruise up the Kinabatangan River. Threatened with extinction due to deforestation, sanctuaries in Borneo are being set up for the conservation of the species. They can also be observed in Bako National Park in Malaysia. MANTA RAYS TROPICAL COASTS OF SOUTHEAST ASIA Blessed with some of the world's most diverse marine habitats thanks to…

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    Wild Saudi Arabia
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    Wild Saudi Arabia

    DESERTS & LANDSCAPES FULL OF LIFE Saudi Arabia has many tricks up its sleeve to surprise and delight visitors. One of the ways it does this is through its unique and exotic wildlife. Far more than just a desolate expanse of sand and dessert, Saudi Arabia boasts more than 82,000 sq. km. of nature reserves and preservation areas rich with life. From the mountains of Abha, to the desert sands of Al Ula and the depths of the Red Sea, let’s explore some of the unique creatures found in Saudi Arabia. Desert wildlife in Saudi Arabia Nestled amongst the striking red rocks and desert sands of Al Ula in Northwest Saudi is the 1,500 sq. km. Sharaan Nature Reserve. Most visitors will get the chance to see Ostrich, Nubian Ibex and Idmi Gazelles grazing on the rough desert undergrowth, but the Arabian Wolf is a more elusive resident. Sharaan hope that one day the Arabian leopard will join the wolf in roaming the rocky desert terrain…And, of course, no trip to the desert is complete without time spent with the desert’s most famous creature: camels! Dromedary Camels are the national animal of Saudi Arabia and have played a significant part…

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    Beyond Borneo’s Jungles
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    Beyond Borneo’s Jungles

    For most people, if you mention the name ‘Borneo’, the first things that come to mind are rainforests and exotic creatures. While, in fairness, there is truth to this depiction -Borneo  does have these things aplenty- there is much more to it than just that.In fact, with a land area nearly equivalent to France and Germany combined, it's the third largest island on the planet. Within its extensive shores are an abundance of fascinating history, diverse cultures, distinct coastlines, stunning landscapes and much more. For those only acquainted with the natural side of Borneo, here are other aspects of the vast and beautiful island to keep in mind when considering a trip to Malaysia. FASCINATING HISTORY Did you know that Borneo has been the theatre of some WW2 battles ?The Australians conducted some assaults against the Japanese forces. So while discovering the incredible nature of the island, you can also learn some passionate stories about the place. In  Sandakan where the war prisoners made some death marches or along the coast where europeans sailors merchants settled first trading ports… SANDAKAN CITY BREAK DRAMATIC LANDSCAPES Go wild with a fabulous adventure through Borneo’s UNESCO World Heritage sites. Explore the remarkable caves and…

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  • Adventure

    Epic routes, top-notch equipment, specialised guides- read all about EXO Adventure

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Arts & Culture

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    Spiritual Awakening in Luang Prabang, Laos
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    Spiritual Awakening in Luang Prabang, Laos

    When it comes to being persuasive to visitors, Luang Prabang is a seasoned charmer. Nestled at the confluence of the mighty Mekong and Nam Khan rivers with forest covered mountains forming its backdrop, the town remains the countries number one draw.  Evocative scenes are not difficult to come by in the one-time Royal Capital. As the early-morning mists roll away from the Mekong, the streets fill up with saffron-robed monks collecting their daily alms, a ritual preserved for centuries - and more so here than anywhere else in Buddhist Asia. The gentle chimes of temple bells resound throughout the day, while the sound of diners chattering over riverside cocktails or gourmet meals defines the unobtrusive evening clamor. Although modernity has encroached in the shape of slick new cafes and hotels, Luang Prabang remains very much in touch with its past. The city is UNESCO World Heritage-listed, which means that most of its unique combination of cultural wonders such as royal palaces, traditional Lao wooden style buildings, French colonial architecture and ornate temples remain safeguarded. Highlights include Wat Xieng Thong and Phou Si Mountain, which is located atop a hill overlooking the city and offers incredible views across the city towards…

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    Idyllic and Untouched – Lombok & the Gili Islands
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    Idyllic and Untouched – Lombok & the Gili Islands

    Known as the 'Island of the Gods', Bali's prominence as a destination is rightfully huge. In recent times, growing numbers of visitors have been looking a little further east to Lombok, where the fabled Gili Islands have emerged as one of Indonesia's premier beach havens.  For those who relish both comfort and exoticism, however, there is no better place than Bali. Many visitors barely scratch the surface of the island's deeply complex and spiritual Hindu culture, preferring to spend their time surfing the island's fabled breaks, relaxing in opulent resorts or enjoying life to its fullest in sleek beach clubs and international-class restaurants. The island's magical tapestry of enchanting temple ceremonies, vivid-green rice terraces and comfortable living, however, can be easily found in places such as the cultural center of Ubud, laidback beach towns like Lovina and Amed and in the glorious hinterland. Just to the east, Lombok is very different in character. The island is predominantly Muslim and is drier and more arid than Bali. Its highlight, the Gili Islands, with their coral reefs, stretches of white sand and friendly locals, however, offer perhaps the most blissful beach experience in Indonesia. MULTIDAY TOURS BALI AUTHENTIC (8 DAYS / 7 NIGHTS)…

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    EXO Explores – Western Honshu & South Japan
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    EXO Explores – Western Honshu & South Japan

    The southern reaches of Japan don't get as much tourist footfall as the areas around Tokyo, Osaka and Kyoto, but they are no less alluring. Western Honshu, known as Chugoku, is best known for the legacy of the atomic bombing of Hiroshima, its main city. However, visitors can experience everything from peaceful mountain scenery to exquisite seafood and culinary encounters with the potentially lethal fugu (blowfish), a specialty of the town of Shimonoseki on the far western trip of Honshu. Beyond western Honshu lies Kyushu, the third largest island of Japan and the most southwesterly of its four main islands. Rugged and mountainous, and rich in volcanic activity, the island is a favorite of hikers. The peaks of the Kirishima chain are ripe for exploring while the fearsome Mount Aso is the country's most active volcano. Excellent trekking can also be found on Shikoku, where pilgrims have walked clockwise around the island for more than a millennium, following in the footsteps of Buddhist saint Kobo Daishi. Far removed from Japan's main four islands and stretching south to within 200 kilometers of Taiwan, Okinawa shows visitors yet another side to the country. Known for its friendly, sub-tropical, climate and string of…

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    EXO Explores – Art & Architecture in Cambodia
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    EXO Explores – Art & Architecture in Cambodia

    Aesthetics have long played a central part in the culture of Cambodia. The temples at Angkor are widely recognised as one of history's crowning architectural achievements. Meanwhile, a few generations later, the colonial and post-colonial eras ushered in a new age of Khmer creativity , reflected in everything from architecture to music, film and art. The dark days of Khmer Rouge rule and its aftermath served to stunt this blossoming, but guests visiting today can appreciate the country's unique artistic heritage in a number of often-indulgent ways. Available journeys vary in scope. In the capital Phnom Penh, a vibrant architectural scene can be appreciated through informative walking tours, while a similar experience can be enjoyed in sleepy Battambang. Other unforgettable memories can be created through sunrise appreciation of the temples at Angkor and an insight to Cambodia's incredible artistic heritage with one of the country's most innovative creative collectives. OUR FAVOURITE EXPERIENCES  PHNOM PENH ART & ARCHITECTURE TOUR In recent times Phnom Penh has slowly rebuilt its artistic spirit, drawing from a new sense of optimism brought on by Cambodia’s rapidly changing society. Tour around the famous 1960s architecture, before lunch at one of the city’s…

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    EXO Explores: Halong Bay & North Vietnam
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    EXO Explores: Halong Bay & North Vietnam

    No natural draw encapsulates the otherworldly beauty of Vietnam quite like Halong Bay. Jutting out almost perpendicularly from the Gulf of Tonkin, 1600 or so limestone karsts stud the emerald waters of the bay. The seascape, which is UNESCO World Heritage-listed, is arguably the country's most recognisable tourist draw and it is fully deserving of its fame. A legion of cruising junks - some basic, some salubrious - ply the waters and spending at least one night sleeping under the stars out on the water is an integral part of any Vietnam itinerary. Although Halong Bay is undoubtedly the banner attraction in northern Vietnam, there are plenty of other stirring experiences to be had. Much of the area is rugged, mountainous and often very remote and the scenery is almost uniformly spectacular. Provinces such as Cao Bang and Ha Giang offer some of the most memorable vistas in the region, but remain relatively inaccessible. Equally compelling and easier to get to is the little town of Sapa. Located high in the Tonkinese Alps near towering Mount Fansipan, the highest peak in Vietnam, Sapa was established as a hill station by the French in 1922 and is the main center for…

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    EXO Explores – Penang, Malaysia
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    EXO Explores – Penang, Malaysia

    Compact and convenient yet brimming with exotic attractions and historic sights, Penang is one of Malaysia's banner destinations. Strategically important due to its location in the Straits of Malacca, the island has acted as a crossroads for trade and a link between Asia's two halves for centuries. It's colourful history can be easily digested in the city of George Town. The island's main hub, it revels in a sensual melange of influences where watermarked Chinese shop houses are located a few narrow streets away from shops selling Indian spices and grand mosques.  The city is also home to some of Malaysia's (and subsequently the world's) most delicious hawker food. These open-air stalls are particularly strong on Chinese dishes, but seafood and the island's legendarily creamy durian are other must-haves. Out in the countryside, things are no less enticing. The beaches of the north coast supply tropical lounging, while mountainous jungle showcases the island's wilder side. FEATURED TRIP BEST OF PENINSULA (7 DAYS / 6 NIGHTS) Catch a glimpse of Malaysia's mesmerizing heritage and remarkable landscapes with a one-week group tour. After wandering Kuala Lumpur's vibrant streets, step back in time in historic Malacca. Take a breath of fresh air in…

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    EXO Explores – Pakse & The South, Laos
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    EXO Explores – Pakse & The South, Laos

    Previously overshadowed by bigger hitting destinations further north, the southern section of Laos is coming into its own as a magnet for tourists. From the limestone karsts and dense forests of the Phou Hin Boun NPA (National Protected Area) to the coffee plantations and roaring waterfalls of the verdant Bolaven Plateaux, southern Laos is prime territory for nature lovers who relish deviating from the beaten path. The landscapes brim with potential for derring-do with prime activities including motorcycle odysseys into the wilderness or kayaking or rafting amidst pristine nature. There's also plenty of scope to ease things down to the more familiar laid-back pace of life in Laos. A good spot to indulge in such a recharge is Si Pan Don. Better known as the 4000 Islands, this riverine archipelago hard by the border with Cambodia offers palm fringes islands set against a lazy and winding section of the Mekong River. Si Phan Don is not the only Mekong River attraction worth diverting to in the southernmost Champasak province of Laos. The beautiful island of Don Daeng, directly opposite Champasak town, is ideal for exploration by means of pedal power and is close to Wat Phou, a UNESCO-listed pre-Angkorian temple…

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    EXO Explores: Classic Japan
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    EXO Explores: Classic Japan

    From the Alpine peaks of chilly Hokkaido in the north to the coral reefs of Okinawa over 3000 kilometers south, Japan has a collection of greatest hits to send the pulse of any travel enthusiast racing. Vibrant cities supply plenty of sensory stimuli, but their neon lit pace is offset by a plethora of natural splendor. Towering mountain ranges extend down the country's spine, offering visual manna and abundant opportunities for exploration of the great outdoors. Iconic Mount Fuji is the country's highest peak and is easily accessed from Tokyo. Great hiking territory can be found in various locations however. The awe-inspiring jagged peaks of the northern Alps in Honshu are considered the country's premier trekking grounds. For post workout respite, meanwhile, traditional ryokan (inns) with onsen (hot springs) are perfect for relaxing aching limbs. Top onsen spots include Kinosaki in Honshu and Dogo in Shikoku. Delving into Japan's rich culture and fascinating history is also a must for visitors. Guests can overnight in a temple at famous ancient pilgrimage sites such as Mount Koya. Meanwhile, the country's most recent past is thrown into focus at Hiroshima's Peace Memorial Park and Museum, dedicated to victims of the atomic bomb that…

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    EXO Explores: Battambang Cambodia
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    EXO Explores: Battambang Cambodia

    Of all of Cambodia's large urban centers, Battambang is undoubtedly the most alluring. Located amidst attractive rolling countryside to the west of Tonle Sap Lake, the town enjoys a peaceful riverside location and possesses some of the country's best-preserved colonial architecture. Although it is laid-back to the point of being horizontal, the city has its own unique dynamism. In fact, it has become known for being at the cutting edge of an emerging Cambodian art scene with several galleries and creative spaces around town showcasing the work of local artists. At the core of the city's artistic revival is Phare Ponleu Selpak. The sprawling arts establishment, established by one-time refugees from Cambodia's civil war, teaches visual, applied and performing arts to underprivileged kids. Its centerpiece is its circus school with students performing in energetic and often-thought provoking productions under the school's big top. The healthy art scene in the city, meanwhile, is complemented by a clutch of high-quality restaurants specializing in everything from fine French dining to more humble, but still delicious, Khmer delicacies. Battambang's bucolic hinterland is also well worth exploring. The famous "bamboo train" - an eccentric and noisy contraption - runs along a short section of track…

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    EXO Explores: Central & Northeastern Thailand
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    EXO Explores: Central & Northeastern Thailand

    Often bypassed by travellers rushing either to the mountains of the north or the beaches of the south, the central and northeastern reached of Thailand have plenty of attributes to woo visitors.  Central Thailand is the country's cultural heartland. Fed by the Chao Phraya River, the fertile plain north of Bangkok births much of the nation's rice crop while towns such as Ayutthaya and Sukhothai were formerly capitals of once-mighty Thai kingdoms. Steeped in colourful history, the majestic ruins at both towns reward exploration by bike or by foot. To the northwest of Bangkok, mountain ranges climb towards the Myanmar border, the lush peaks hiding spectacular foaming waterfalls. The base for exploration of this wilderness is Kanchanaburi, a friendly riverside town famous for its role during WWII when occupying Japanese troops enlisted POWs and conscripted Southeast Asians to build the infamous 'Death Railway' to what was then known as Burma. Northeastern Thailand, otherwise known as Isaan, is, to tourists at least, the country's great unknown. The giant drought-prone area is the poorest part of Thailand and banner attractions are fewer here than in other regions. Nevertheless, it is a fascinating cultural makeup - it has more in common with Laos…

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