SRI LANKA • APRIL 9-18, 2028

Sri Lanka is not for those seeking predictable resort stagnation. It's an island that refuses to be neatly packaged, instead offering a sensory tapestry that is both lush and relentless. Ancient stupas (sacred dome-shaped Buddhist monuments) don't just "rise" here; they dominate the horizon, often anchored within sprawling landscapes that manage to be both untamed jungle and meticulously cultivated tea estates. Robed monks navigate the mist-covered hills with an almost transcendent focus, a sharp counterpoint to the vibrant, chaotic symphony of tuk-tuks (think clown car with no clowns) in the urban centers. One will quickly discover that the fishermen balancing on precarious wooden poles are, in fact, masters of an ancient, hyper-local commerce that defies modern industrialization. This is a destination that demands active participation, not passive observation. Expect to confront the humid spice-laden air, the pervasive scent of blooming jasmine and wet earth, and a history that is not merely remembered but palpable in the vibrant street markets. The visual clichés are present, certainly, but they are layered with a colonial resilience and a warm, irrepressible hospitality that sets Sri Lanka apart. It is a place that challenges expectations, occasionally frustrates, but ultimately rewards with an authentic, unfiltered experience that is impossible to replicate.Now forget the superlatives, clever commentary, or persuasive insight.

Here are straight facts: one night at the 5-star Shanri-La luxury hotel in Colombo, three nights at a 5-star minimalist resort nestled in the heart of the Cultural Triangle near the Sigiriya rock fortress, two nights at a 5-star (maybe 4-star) property in the misty highlands of Kandy (over 7300' elevation), and finally three nights at a rustic luxury jungle resort located directly on the edge of Yala National Park (and um, famous for having one of the highest leopard densities in the world). Do the math — four separate and unique properties totaling nine glorious and adventure-filled nights starting in the capital while ending on the southern coast.

And that’s only the accommodations. For tours, activities, and sight-seeing it goes something like this: a private tuk-tuk city tour, an early morning climb of the Sigiriya Rock Fortress, multiple jeep safaris in Yala National Park to spot leopards and elephants, bungee jumping, kayaking, and zip lining in the high central mountain region, a private tour of a local spice garden and tea factory, and some other stuff that will be disclosed later. Catching breath. Plus, there — is — so — much — more.

This is the ultimate custom package to explore the Pearl of the Indian Ocean.

Sri Lanka is not for those seeking predictable resort stagnation. It is an island that refuses to be neatly packaged, offering a sensory tapestry both lush and relentless. Ancient stupas (sacred dome-shaped Buddhist monuments) don't just "rise" here; they dominate the horizon, anchored within landscapes that balance untamed jungle and meticulously cultivated tea estates. Robed monks navigate mist-covered hills with transcendent focus, a sharp counterpoint to the chaotic symphony of urban tuk-tuks (think clown car with no clowns). Fishermen balancing on precarious wooden poles are, in fact, masters of an ancient, hyper-local commerce defying modern industrialization. This destination demands active participation, not passive observation. Expect humid, spice-laden air, the scent of blooming jasmine and wet earth, and a history palpable in vibrant street markets. Visual clichés are present, but layered with colonial resilience and a warm, irrepressible hospitality that sets Sri Lanka apart. It is a place that challenges expectations, occasionally frustrates, but ultimately rewards with an authentic experience impossible to replicate.

Now forget the superlatives, clever commentary, or persuasive insight. Here are straight facts: one night at the 5-star Shanri-La luxury hotel in Colombo, three nights at a 5-star minimalist resort nestled in the Cultural Triangle near the Sigiriya rock fortress, two nights at a 5-star (maybe 4-star) property in the misty highlands of Kandy (over 7,300' elevation), and three nights at a rustic luxury jungle resort located directly on the edge of Yala National Park (and um, famous for having one of the highest leopard densities in the world). Do the math — four unique properties totaling nine glorious, adventure-filled nights starting in the capital while ending on the southern coast.

And that’s only the accommodations. For tours, activities, and sightseeing: a private tuk-tuk city tour, an early morning climb of the Sigiriya Rock Fortress, multiple jeep safaris in Yala National Park to spot leopards and elephants, bungee jumping, kayaking, and zip lining in the high central mountain region, a private tour of a local spice garden and tea factory, and other details disclosed later. Catching breath. Plus, there — is — so — much — more.

This is the ultimate custom package to explore the Pearl of the Indian Ocean.

SRI LANKA

Sri Lanka, a teardrop-shaped island nation positioned in the Indian Ocean off the southeastern coast of India, stretches approximately 268 miles from north to south and spans 140 miles across at its widest point. It ain’t that big, California is six times larger. Bordered by the Bay of Bengal, the Laccadive Sea, and the Gulf of Mannar, it boasts diverse geography, microclimates, and ecosystems—from forested highland peaks and cascading waterfalls to tropical coastlines. Its primary river systems, led by the Mahaweli River, sustain fertile plains and agricultural valleys where a significant portion of the population relies on paddy rice, tea, and spice cultivation.

The nation’s rich cultural tapestry is woven from millennia of recorded history, molded by ancient Buddhist monarchies, regional South Indian influences, and successive eras of European colonization by the Portuguese, Dutch, and British (1505–1948). Gaining independence in 1948 and adopting full republican status in 1972, Sri Lanka established itself as a sovereign nation. Today, it seeks economic diversification and international integration, utilizing its strategic geographical position along vital Indian Ocean maritime routes.

Bustling urban centers, complex culinary traditions, and varied landscapes define the island. In major cities, ancient stupas and colonial monuments sit adjacent to modern commercial developments; in the countryside, daily life follows the seasonal rhythms of monsoons, tea harvesting, and agricultural cycles. This dynamic between deep-rooted tradition and ongoing modernization forms a central aspect of the nation's identity. Food plays an integral role in daily life, with markets across the island offering an abundance of fresh seafood, tropical produce, and endemic spices. The resulting cuisine is recognized as one of the region's most fragrant and distinct.

Official Name: Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka • Former Name: Ceylon • Continent: Asia • Capital: Kotte • Area: 25,330 sq mi • Highest Elevation: 8,281' (Pidurutalagala) • Population: 23,365,000 (2026) • Time: UTC+5:30 • Primary Religion: Buddhism (70%) • Language: Sinhala + Tamil • Currency: Rupee ($1 = 335 LKR) • Industries: Textiles, Agriculture, Tourism • Electricity: 230V • Driving Side: Left

WEATHER AND CLIMATE (DONE ES 4.1.26)

Sri Lanka consists of two key climate zones: the Wet Zone (Southwest and Central Highlands) and the Dry Zone (North, East, and Southeast) both of which will be visited during the Seasick adventure. The Central Highlands come alive in March and April: misty hills, endless tea terraces, and endless lush jungle. Mornings start in the mid-70s°F (just right for exploring), climbing into the high 80s°F by afternoon (still comfortable). Expect clouds to roll in, humidity to creep up, and a quick afternoon shower which keeps the hills and plantations vibrant. The highlands are perfect for wandering scenic valleys or soaking (not literally) in panoramic views over Kandy and Nuwara Eliya. Sri Lanka’s southern coast is a sun-drenched playground featuring palm beaches, turquoise waters, and coastal charm. April can be characterized by mornings in the high 70s°F (perfect for a seaside stroll), climbing into the high 80s°F by afternoon. Skies are partly cloudy, humidity creeps up, + quick afternoon showers keep the coastline lush + tropical. Sri Lanka’s southern coast offers sun, sea, + adventure at every turn.

APRIL AVERAGES (DONE ES 4.1.26)

Colombo: High: 90°F • Low: 78°F • Sea Water: 85°F • Daylight Hours: 12.3 • Sunshine Hours: 8 • Rainy Days: 15 • Precipitation: 5.4 in
Sigiriya: High: 93°F • Low: 74°F • Sea Water: NA • Daylight Hours: 12.3 • Sunshine Hours: 8 • Rainy Days: 12 • Precipitation: 3.6 in
Nuwara Eliya: High: 72°F • Low: 53°F • Sea Water: NA • Daylight Hours: 12.3 • Sunshine Hours: 7 • Rainy Days: 12 • Precipitation: 3.9 in
Yala National Park: High: 89°F • Low: 78°F • Sea Water: 85°F • Daylight Hours: 12.3 • Sunshine Hours: 8 • Rainy Days: 11 • Precipitation: 4.2 in

COLOMBO

Hanoi, a bustling city and the capital of Vietnam, was settled in prehistoric times. The streets of its rambling Old Quarter date back to the 14th century and are lined with trees that ‘guard’ crumbling colonial facades which transport travelers back in time. Since 1945 Hanoi has been transformed from a commercial city into an industrial and agricultural center. The ancient city is being invigorated with modern cafes, world-class restaurants, and cool art galleries. When the sun goes down, watering holes, sophisticated rooftop bars, and buzzing bia hơi (fresh beer joints) come alive. From ancient temples to frenetic markets, Hanoi's got it all. It's basically the cultural heartbeat of Vietnam.

Official Name: Hà Nội (“city inside rivers”) • Nickname: City of Soaring Dragon • Founded: 257 BC • Region: Red River Delta • Largest District (Area): Ba Vi • Largest District (Population): Hoang Mai • Primary Ethnic Group: Vietnamese (98%) • City Population: 8,435,000 (2022) • Metro Population: 20,000,000 (2019) • Cars: 1,000,000 • Motorcycles + Scooters: 6,500,000+ • Lakes: 20 • Malls: Who cares

SHANGRI-LA COLOMBO (DONE ES 4.1.26)

Shangri-La Colombo in the heart of Colombo is recognized as a premier urban retreat, instantly setting a benchmark for luxury accommodation in Sri Lanka’s vibrant capital. Guests enjoy a seamless blend of sophisticated comfort and refined elegance, delivered through attentive, personalized service. The hotel features an extensive array of amenities designed for both relaxation and indulgence, including world-class dining experiences, luxurious rooms with breathtaking views of the Indian Ocean, plus versatile business and leisure facilities. This focus on refined luxury combined with thoughtful amenities establishes Shangri La Colombo as a distinguished urban retreat, ensuring every guest enjoys a serene and pampered escape amid the city’s vibrant energy.

Built: 2017 • Rooms/Suites: 541 • Floors: 31 • Pool: Outdoor • Spa: Yes • Sauna: Yes • Fitness Center: Yes • Beauty Salon: Perms anyone? • Florist: Yes • Onsite Dining: 3 options (+ room service) • Bars: 3 • Pastry Shops: 2 • WiFi: Included • Breakfast: Included • Currency Exchange + ATM: Yes • Laundry: Yes • Multilingual Staff: Yes • Concierge: Yes • Shoeshine: Included • Elevator: Yes • Limos: Available

SHANGRI-LA COLOMBO ACCOMMODATIONS (DONE ES 4.1.26)

PREMIER OCEAN VIEW
The 441 sq. ft. rooms are spacious, stylish, and designed for comfort, featuring a sleek large en-suite bathroom with a large bath. Guests will also appreciate the room’s large panoramic window overlooking the spectacular view of the Indian Ocean. 1 King bed or 2 Twin beds are available.

COLOMBO NIGHT FOOD TOUR (DONE ES 4.1.26)

The evening begins as a fleet of tuk-tuks descends upon the neon-soaked streets of Colombo. This is a high-speed, three-wheeled plunge into the island’s late-night culinary heart—an exhilarating way to navigate the city's coastal breeze and chaotic energy. For those chasing authentic, off-the-beaten-path flavors, the capital’s street food scene provides the ultimate urban safari. Concerns about "exotic" palettes are easily managed. While Sri Lankan cuisine is famous for its fire, the menu offers a vast range of savory egg hoppers, buttery parathas, and coconut-infused delicacies that cater to all levels of bravery. This is no sterile tourist loop; the route carves through the frantic pulse of Pettah Market and the salt-sprayed promenade of Galle Face Green. Local experts bypass the standard restaurant traps, heading straight for hidden stalls where the rhythmic clanging of kottu blades serves as the soundtrack. It is a sensory-heavy exploration inspired by the raw, unscripted spirit of street food culture. Engines idling. Stomachs empty. Senses on high alert.

HERITANCE KANDALAMA (DONE ES 4.1.26)

Heritance Kandalama stands as a definitive architectural landmark, consistently recognized as the top-rated luxury property in the region. The award-winning design follows a unique concept that integrates the structure directly into the cliffside, stretching nearly half a mile across seven levels. This layout ensures the building blends into the mountainside, featuring a living wall of greenery and timber supports that allow the structure to merge with the landscape. This integration prioritizes a seamless transition between the high-end construction and the surrounding wilderness.

The interior serves as a gallery of site-specific art and extensive amenities, featuring iconic metal and stone sculptures integrated into the common areas and the infinity pool terrace. Every vantage point offers panoramic views of the Kandalama Reservoir and the distant horizon, complemented by a suite of luxury facilities designed for sophisticated comfort. Frequently cited for its unconventional and environmentally conscious layout, the property remains a premier destination for those seeking a comprehensive resort experience within the natural terrain of the Cultural Triangle.

Built: 1994 • Rooms/Suites: 152 • Floors: 7 • Pool: 3 Outdoor • Spa: Yes • Sauna: Yes • Fitness Center: Yes • Yoga: Available • Tennis Court: Rally time! • Bicycle Rental: Yes • Beauty Salon: Manis + Pedis • Florist: No • Onsite Dining: 3 options (+ room service) • Bars: 3 • WiFi: Included • Breakfast: Included • Currency Exchange + ATM: Yes • Laundry: Yes • Multilingual Staff: Yes • Concierge: Yes • Elevator: Yes

HERITANCE KANDALAMA ACCOMMODATIONS (DONE ES 4.2.26)

LUXURY GARDEN VIEW
The rooms encompass 387 sq. ft. of living space, defined by a tropical modernist design that utilizes teak wood and rattan to harmonize with the cliffside environment. Expansive windows offer an immersive perspective of the surrounding jungle canopy and the historic silhouette of the Sigiriya Rock Fortress. 1 King bed or 2 Twin beds are available.

HOT AIR BALLOON (DONE ES 4.1.26)

In the pre-dawn darkness, a quiet clearing in the Sri Lankan scrubland transforms into a high-energy launch site. Flattened envelopes roar to life with rhythmic blasts of flame as crews manage the inflation process. The initial activity soon gives way to a profound, suspended tranquility as the baskets ascend into the morning sky. At an altitude of 2,000 feet, the landscape reveals the monolithic Sigiriya Rock Fortress. Sunrise illuminates the vertical granite walls of "Lion Rock" and the neighboring Pidurangala peak, which often emerges from a blanket of mist. The flight continues over the emerald canopy of the Cultural Triangle, passing ancient reservoirs known as "wewas" and dense jungle where wild elephants are occasionally visible from above. After approximately 60 minutes, the descent begins. The balloon skims over palm fronds, vibrant paddy fields, and rural hamlets, providing an intimate view of traditional village life. This low-altitude pass offers a final perspective of the region’s geography before the craft returns to earth.

OR

In the pre-dawn grit, a nondescript clearing in the Sri Lankan scrubland shifts into a tactical launch zone. Deflated husks are force-fed heat, detonating with rhythmic pulses of fire. This mechanical friction evaporates into a cold, suspended silence as the baskets are hauled into the morning sky. At 2,000 feet, the landscape reveals the scarred monolith of Sigiriya Rock Fortress. Sunrise carves the vertical granite walls of "Lion Rock" out of the darkness, while the jagged peak of Pidurangala pierces a heavy atmospheric shroud. The trajectory cuts across the emerald grid of the Cultural Triangle, passing "wewas"—ancient reservoirs—and dense jungle where wild elephants move like grey ghosts through the teak. After sixty minutes, the descent begins. The craft skims the sharp edges of palm fronds and rural outposts, conducting a low-level surveillance of paddy fields and village structures. This provides a raw, unedited perspective of the terrain before the final contact with the earth.

MINNERIYA NATIONAL PARK (HERITANCE KANDALAMA) (DONE ES 4.2.26)

Minneriya National Park, nestled in central Sri Lanka, are vibrant sanctuaries defined by the vast Minneriya Reservoir + its surrounding forests, grasslands, + seasonal wetlands. Think the scenery’s impressive? Get this: Minneriya National Park is most famous for something even bigger—“The Gathering.” Every dry season (April → October) over 300 Asian wild elephants assemble around the reservoir, making these parks one of Asia’s most extraordinary wildlife spectacles. Catch the elephants as they roam, graze, feed, splash, + play with one another (aww). 

The park is home to an incredible array of animals, including leopards, sloth bears, monkeys, + a spectacular variety of birds, providing endless opportunities for wildlife observation, photography, + epic wildlife encounters in vibrant landscapes. And if that ain’t enough, check this out… the park features two endemic monkeys, the purple-faced langur + the toque macaque, + eight other endemic reptiles, including the red-lipped lizard. 

Established: 1997 • Land Area: 34.3 sq mi • Acres: 21,952 • Elevation: 330' - 2,905' • Wildlife Species: ≈160 birds + ≈24 mammals + ≈25 reptiles + ≈75 butterflies • Camps/Lodges: 0 • Human Residents: 0

MELIA VINPEARL QUANG BINH

Located a mere 15-minute drive from the airport, this hotel is nestled in the heart of Dong Hoi City. The property’s strategic position provides access to some of the area’s most impressive attractions, such as the Tu Lan Caves, Mother Suot Statue, and Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park. Adjacent to the peaceful Nhat Le River, Melia Vinpearl Quang Binh showcases elegant neoclassical design and features the YHI Spa, relaxing massages, a gym, and the only four-season swimming pool in the city. Guests can savor carefully selected Asian and European cuisines, admire stunning views of the city, and rest in amenity-laden rooms. The hotel is an ideal place for guests to relax and recharge between tours (especially after being in a cave for eight hours).

Year Opened: 2018 • Renovation: NA • Rooms and Suites: 127 • WiFi: Included • Breakfast: Included • Onsite Dining: Rumba • Bar: Moss (lobby), Garbo (rooftop) • Pool: Indoor heated • Spa: Yes • Sauna: Yes • Gym: Yes • Laundry: Yes • Multilingual Staff: Yes • Concierge: Yes • Room Service: Yes • Elevator: Yes • Business Center: Gotta fax? • Pets: Nope • Dong Hoi Airport: 3 miles • Nhat Le Beach: 1 mile

MELIA VINPEARL QUANG BINH ACCOMMODATIONS

DELUXE RIVER VIEW
Enjoy the enchanting views of the Nhat Le River. The 485 sq. ft. rooms have been meticulously designed to ensure the ultimate comfortable stay. Available with either a king size bed or two twin beds.

SUITE RIVER VIEW
The stylish suite features additional space and true elegance. Wake up admiring the views of one of the nicest parts of Vietnam, relax in the living room, or enjoy a bubble bath. The 775 sq. ft. suites are available with one king size bed.

4 available. Upgrade cost for 2 nights: $250 per person, double occupancy.

PHONG NHA-KE BANG NATIONAL PARK

Phong Nha (because Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park is a mouthful) is an adventurer’s paradise. It is a World Natural Heritage Site located in the middle of the Annamite Mountain Range in Quang Binh province Vietnam. The property comprises an area of 304,745 acres and contains terrestrial and aquatic habitats, primary and secondary forest, sites of natural regeneration, tropical dense forests and savanna. The property contains and protects over 65 miles of caves and underground rivers making it one of the most outstanding limestone karst ecosystems in the world. The cave systems in Phong Nha area were formed by geological tectonics activities in the Ke Bang limestone mountain range. Specifically, the karst tectonics of Phong Nha Area were formed 400 million years ago, from the Paleozoic period, so this is the oldest karst in Asia. A large biodiversity of faunal and floral species occurs within the property with over 800 vertebrate species recorded comprising 154 mammals, 117 reptiles, 58 amphibians, 314 birds and 170 fish.

Phong-Nha is a blend of natural wonders and adventurous experiences. From world-class caves like Son Doong to lush forests home to rich wildlife, every corner of the park beckons with its breathtaking beauty. Colossal caves may be the main attraction but linger a little longer and Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park will reveal hiking trails, countryside lanes, and rivers perfect for kayaking. Although this is Vietnam’s top adventure destination, Phong Nha is still in the early stages of development. The caves are pristine, the locals are friendly, and tourists feel like they have the wilderness all to themselves.

Countries: Vietnam + Laos • Vietnam Location: North Central Coast (300 mi south of Hanoi) • Established: 2001 • World Heritage Site: Yes • Number of Caves: 300+ • Discovered Cave Length: 78 mi • Area: 476 sq mi • Highest Elevation: 3,310' (U Bo Mountain Peak) • Governing Body: People's Committee of Quảng Bình Province • World Records: largest combined caverns + longest underground river

TU LAN CAVE TOUR

Indiana Jones would be jealous. But don’t worry, no swinging from vines, dodging poisonous arrows, or fleeing from scores of angry tribesmen. Instead, this is a simplified and introductory one-day cave trekking tour. Guests will discover the unspoiled beauty of the Tu Lan Cave System (film set for the 2017 Hollywood blockbuster Kong: Skull Island). Director Jordan Vogt-Roberts once declared: "The world will see how beautiful Tu Lan is, they will come, experience and love Tu Lan as I did".

The Tu Lan cave system is made up of more than 20 wet and dry caves that are three million years old. It is the huge caverns, underground rivers and vast dangling stalactites that make this area a big draw for cave enthusiasts. The existence of this area was first introduced by the British Cave Research Association in 1992; however, as stated by local villagers, it was known by locals for much longer. In 2010, additional surveys of the cave revealed the true scale of the system. The Tu Lan Cave experience entails a countryside hike through valleys encompassed by limestone mountain ridges covered in primeval forest, dry and wet caves with a unique stalactite system, a swim in an underground river inside the cave, a leisure swim in the cool blue stream and a picnic lunch by the stream.

OXALIS ADVENTURE TOURS

Oxalis is the leading tour operator licensed to take visitors into the caves. They are the exclusive operator for an array of unique expeditions including Tu Lan Cave systems. Designed with precision, the tours are led by guides who are trained by British cave experts and members of the British Caving & Research Association. Oxalis is committed to small group experiences, community investment, and providing local residents with stable employment opportunities. Adhering to international standards, they equip all tours with top-tier safety gear. 

HUE

Hue, located in central Vietnam, is a city rich in historical and cultural significance. It served as the imperial capital of the Nguyễn Dynasty for over 140 years, from 1802 to 1945, leaving behind a legacy of impressive architectural marvels. The most prominent among these is the Complex of Hue Monuments, a UNESCO World Heritage site encompassing the Imperial City, Forbidden Purple City, and numerous royal tombs and pagodas. The Perfume River, flowing through the city, adds to its scenic beauty and was historically important for transport and ceremonial purposes. Hue's cuisine is also distinctive, known for its refined imperial dishes and various local specialties. Despite the passage of time and the impacts of war, the city retains much of its ancient charm and continues to be a significant center for Vietnamese culture and Buddhism.

‍Original Name: Kandarpapura (“the city where Siva burnt Kama”) • Founded: 1802 BC (Prince Nguyen Anh) • Region: North Central Coast • Area: 102 sq mi • Elevation: 49' • Population: 437,000 (2024)

ANCIENT HUE GARDEN HOUSES

In Kim Long’s Village, the well-preserved Garden Houses are secluded behind massive gates, typical of the Mandarin Era. Away from the crowded city, visitors can unwind their mind and body while staying in Hue. At Ancient Hue Garden Houses, one will experience luxurious accommodations, sumptuous cuisine, and leisurely pastimes. Being in the Hue Garden Houses immerses the individual in the warm atmosphere of Phu Mong, a local community where the sights, sounds, and smells of traditional life abound. The truest culture of Vietnam can be felt on its leafy streets, reflecting the nation that was, is, and will be. Telling the story of the Nguyen Dynasty, Ancient Hue Royal Homes is a blend between feudal architecture and nature, harmoniously bringing both noble quintessence and traditional folk design.

Imperial Royal Houses: 5 • Rooms: 9 • WiFi: Included • Breakfast: Included • Onsite Dining: Kim Long, Phu Mong • Bar: Yes • Pool: Yes • Spa services: Yes • Laundry Services: Yes • Multilingual Staff: Yes

ANCIENT HUE GARDEN HOUSES ACCOMMODATIONS

GARDEN HOUSE
The five houses: Truong Tien, Vong Canh, Ngu Binh, Kim Phung, and Bach Ma Villa each feature a different number of bedrooms and bed configurations. In addition, each unit is uniquely themed to reflect the history and heritage of Hue: arts/noble music, architecture, poetry, and costumes/attire. The rooms vary in design and size (431 sq. ft. - 861 sq. ft.) and are available with either one king size bed or two twin beds. Some rooms have bathtubs, some do not. Some have outdoor patios, other do not. Expect a pleasant surprise as rooms will not be assigned in advance.

THUY XUAN INCENSE VILLAGE

Incense isn't just fragrance in Vietnam; it's a direct line to the beyond. For local Buddhists, those tendrils of smoke aren't merely atmospheric; they're the sacred broadband linking the tangible with the spiritual. For centuries, this ethereal connection has been harnessed on special occasions, a smoky ritual for prayers and ancestral remembrance. Near Hue, Thuy Xuan village—a quintessential Vietnamese tableau—stands as a vibrant hub for this ancient craft. Arriving, one is immediately confronted by incense bundles, not subtly displayed, but boldly fanned out across pathways and temple grounds. The predominant, almost aggressive, red hue of these bundles ensures the landscape isn't just colorful, but possesses an arresting, almost otherworldly allure.

HOI AN

Hoi An doesn't just charm; it casts a spell, one that persists long after departure. Its Ancient Town, designated by UNESCO, isn't simply a collection of old buildings; it's an open invitation to wander into a living postcard, where narrow, lantern-draped arteries connect honey-toned shophouses. As the sun dips, the Thu Bon River transforms into a liquid mirror, catching the luminous cascade of countless lanterns, each a silent wish set adrift. One might discover an unexpected passion in a tailor's studio, where fabrics become bespoke attire at an almost alarming pace, or simply surrender to the moment, savoring local flavors at a riverside café. It's a place where history isn't relegated to dusty exhibits but breathes in the very air, fostering a tangible sense of community and a unique, captivating grace.

Official Name: Hoi An Ancient Town (“peaceful meeting place”) • Nickname: City of Lanterns • Founded: ≈1527 BC • Region: Quảng Nam Province • Area: 20 sq mi • Population: 121,750 (2024) • Malls: Nope

LITTLE OASIS

The Little Oasis Hotel in Hoi An positions itself as precisely that: a serene escape from the charmingly chaotic Ancient Town. It's designed to be a contemporary sanctuary, blending modern comforts with a subtle nod to local aesthetics, creating an atmosphere that encourages genuine unwinding. Expect well-appointed rooms, often with views that swap city bustle for the quietude of rice fields or the Do River, inviting a more contemplative pace. Beyond the expected amenities, the hotel cultivates an experience of calm, offering a refreshing contrast to the vibrant sensory overload found just a short distance away in Hoi An's historic heart.

Year Opened: 2023 • Rooms and Suites: 132 • WiFi: Included • Breakfast: Included • Onsite Dining: Paddy Field • Bar: Country Bar, Lobby • Pool: 2 Rooftop • Spa: Yes • Sauna: Yes • Gym: Yes • Laundry: Yes • Multilingual Staff: Yes • Concierge: Yes • Room Service: Yes • Elevator: Yes • Bicycles: Complimentary • Town Shuttle: Complimentary • Beach Shuttle: Complimentary • Management: Little Hoi An Group

LITTLE OASIS ACCOMMODATIONS

LITTLE OASIS BALCONY
Clean and “Vietnamese-contemporary” rooms with garden, river, and city views. Featuring en-suite bathrooms equipped with luxurious amenities for comfort and convenience. Rooms are 485 sq. ft and available with either one king size bed or two twin beds.

TEH DAR

Located in the heart of Hoi An Ancient Town. The show is self-described as a “Vietnamese bamboo circus.” It vividly recreates the original ways of tribal life on the Southwest Highland of Vietnam. Combines storytelling, acrobatics, unique live music, and creative use of bamboo to form an awe-inspiring performance art. Suggestion: don’t Google or search the show. Don’t wanna spoil the surprise. Ranks among the Top 10 must-see cultural and art performances in Vietnam.

The Teh Dar show in Hoi An isn't a quaint cultural display; it's a tribal fever dream performed with unsettling precision. Expect to be immersed, or perhaps assaulted, by an hour of raw, primal energy, delivered via acrobatic feats that defy common sense and the liberal, almost violent, use of bamboo. This is not a polite recitation of folklore; it's a visceral, wordless narrative of highland life, fueled by the hypnotic thrum of indigenous instruments. For those seeking something beyond the predictable, Teh Dar offers a compelling, if slightly unsettling, glimpse into the untamed soul of Vietnam's ethnic cultures.

SAMPLE ITINERARY

PACKAGE INCLUDES

FLIGHTS

SAMPLE ITINERARY AS OF AUGUST 1, 2025

LOS ANGELES - HANOI + HOI AN - LOS ANGELES
DEPARTING: WEDNESDAY, MARCH 31 • RETURNING: SUNDAY, APRIL 11
ESTIMATED COST: $1,225

TERMS AND CONDITIONS

DEFINITIONS: “Company” is defined as Underwater Exposures, Inc. dba Seasick Productions, incorporated in terms of the laws of California, United States of America. "Company Affiliated Parties" is defined as the Company, its directors, members, partners, employees, agents, consultants, suppliers, and contractors. “Guest” is defined as any person or persons placing a booking (whether provisional or confirmed) with the Company and who contracts with the Company for any of the Services together with his/her spouse, dependents and companions. “Services” is defined as the provision of accommodation, transport, transfers, scuba diving and snorkeling activities, tours or any other activities or services provided by the Company and the procurement by the Company of the provision of accommodation, transport, transfers, scuba diving and snorkeling activities, tours or any other activities or services by any Third-Party Contractors.

GENERAL: Price based on double occupancy group rate. Single supplement, extensions, additional services, and all other items not listed in itinerary are not included. All prices subject to change without notice. A $2,000.00 deposit per person is required with each Guest reservation. Company reserves the right, without advance notice, to make changes or cancellations, in part or in whole, as circumstances dictate. Any deposit or payment made to Company or any representative of Company shows acceptance and acknowledgement of the terms and conditions as stated herein.

CHANGES TO RESERVATIONS: Any request by Guest to amend or change a booking once it has been confirmed, may be accommodated by Company subject to availability. If Company is able to assist, a reasonable administrative fee may be charged. Any such administrative fees shall be invoiced to the Guest and must be settled as per the standard terms applicable to the booking. If the invoice is not paid within such time, Company may construe such non-payment as an act of cancellation on the part of the Guest and the provisions of the cancellation clause shall apply. All reservations, confirmed bookings, and Company’s services are non-transferable.

CANCELLATIONS TO RESERVATIONS: Refund (less cancellation fee) may be issued if reservation is cancelled four months prior to departure date and if another Guest can fill the vacancy. All authorized refunds will be assessed a $1,000.00 cancellation fee. No refund or credit will be made for Services not utilized by Guest. No cancellations shall be accepted within 30 days of trip departure.

FORCE MAJEURE: “Force Majeure Event” is defined as any event which is beyond the control of the Company, including, but not limited to a national strike, act of war, armed conflict, insurrection, civil commotion, terrorism or the threat of terrorism; any act of God including but not limited to epidemic, pandemic, lightning, earthquake, flooding, fire, cyclone, hurricane, typhoon, tidal wave, storm, volcanic eruption and other unusual and extreme adverse weather or environmental conditions; any event which falls within any of these categories that is suffered by Third-Party Contractors of the Company, who are involved in the receipt or provision of the Services; and or any other cause or contingency beyond the control of the Company. The Company shall not be deemed to be in breach of any of its obligations to Guest due to any Force Majeure Event. If the Company is affected by a Force Majeure Event, it may in its sole and absolute discretion, amend or cancel any of the Services or the remainder thereof, or to make any alteration in route, accommodation, transportation or arrangement in the event of the Services or any part thereof being rendered impossible, illegal or inadvisable.

GUEST INSURANCE: If scuba diving is a Service used by Guest, Company requires Guest to possess a dive accident insurance policy prior to using any of Company’s Services. If scuba diving is not a Service used by Guest, Company requires Guest to possess an international accident and medical evacuation insurance policy prior to using any of Company’s Services. Information on dive accident insurance can be found at the Divers Alert Network’s website: www.diversalertnetwork.org. In addition, Company recommends trip insurance in the event a Guest must cancel the trip. Information on trip insurance can be found at the Divers Alert Network’s website: www.diversalertnetwork.org or the DiveAssure website: www.diveassure.com.

RESPONSIBILITY: Company acts only as agents for the Third-Party Contractors providing transportation, accommodations, diving and other Services. All tickets and vouchers issued constitute the sole contract between the Guest and Company. Company or its representatives shall not at any time be responsible in any way for loss, injury, or damage arising from any Force Majeure Event, act of government, theft, sickness, customs regulations, delay, cancellation error, or any cause beyond its control. Company or its representatives accepts no liability for the consequences of the personal activities of any Guest who is personally responsible for decisions concerning health, safety, fitness for diving and snorkeling, or any other circumstances beyond its control.