Interesting Facts about Laos

Since we've chosen Laos as our Featured Destination, I thought to share with you some interesting facts about this beautiful place.

Lao is the official language of Laos, but if you've picked up a bit of Thai, feel free to use it here because many understand it (the languages are quite similar). French and English are also commonly used. The Plain of Jars in Laos is home to nearly thousands of huge stone jars, each of which is large enough to hold a person. The largest jar weighs over six tons! Estimated at about 2,000 years old, the purpose of the jars along with their makers is still a mystery. Some experts believe they were used in burial rituals.

The border of Laos and Cambodia is home to the Khone waterfall, which has the greatest volume of water of any waterfall in the world. About 410,000 cubic feet of water falls over its 45 foot drop every second! Compare it to this: Niagara Falls has a volume of half that.

The NYT, Laos & Blogging from Our Family Holiday

The New York Times recently named Laos as the number one destination you should visit in 2008.
http://www.nytimes.com/ref/travel/20071209_WHERE_GRAPHIC.html#goto1

We could not agree more. We have chosen Luang Prabang, Laos, as our Featured Destination for January 2008. In fact, my family and I will be in Laos over the upcoming holiday break. We're going to Laos and Thailand and I'll be blogging from all the wonderful and enchanting and luxurious places we'll be visiting. I'm excited to chronicle our journey!

Here's the press release we issued today talking about Laos, and some of the amazing things we're going to do there beginning December 25th.

Kipling & Clark, the Leading Luxury Travel Company to Asia, Spotlights Luang Prabang, Laos as its Featured Destination for January 2008

The Founder of Kipling & Clark will Chronicle His Family’s Personal Holiday Journey to Laos and Thailand on Travel Blog: www.KiplingandClark.Blogspot.com

CHICAGO, IL—December 17, 2007—Kipling & Clark, the expert in private, personalized luxury travel to Greater China, Japan and all of Southeast Asia, has chosen Luang Prabang as its featured destination for January 2008. The New York Times recently named Laos as its number one place to visit in 2008.

“Kipling & Clark features two high-end luxury properties in Luang Prabang: the Résidence Phou Vao and the French colonial boutique property Maison Souvannaphoum, both are stunningly beautiful, charming and luxurious, truly world-class,” said Randy Lynch, founder and president of Kipling & Clark. “The ancient royal city of Luang Prabang is a hidden treasure in Southeast Asia. It's a slow, sleepy town, nestled on the Mekong River and rich in Buddhist culture, traditional Laotian dwellings and French colonial architecture – it’s a place where time seems to stand still.”

Randy Lynch will be chronicling his family’s holiday expedition to Laos and Thailand on the Kipling & Clark Blog: http://www.kiplingandclark.blogspot.com/ beginning December 25th.

“I will be highlighting and sharing all the amazing wonders of Laos and Thailand: we’ll cruise down the Mekong River from Chiang Rai to Luang Prabang, visit Tam Ting ‘Cave of a Thousand Buddha's’, participate in a traditional Baci ceremony, visit ancient temples, monasteries and ethnic markets, and enjoy the finest luxury accommodations. Our daughter, Zennia, will also make return visits to several local schools and orphanages,” said Mr. Lynch. “At Kipling & Clark, we are able to create once-in-a-lifetime custom journeys to Southeast Asia, Greater China, Japan and India-Bhutan because we personally experience all the places we recommend. Our high-touch service and impeccable destination planning comes from our own first-hand experiences, enabling us to deliver unique luxury travel experiences for discerning travelers.”

View Kipling & Clark’s Family Luxury Expedition sample itinerary to Laos, Thailand and Cambodia: http://kiplingandclark.com/pagesNew/KC_Thai_Cambodia_Fam_Itin.pdf

Click to view map of sample trip to Laos, Thailand and Cambodia

Quick Facts about Korea

Nearly one half of the nation's citizens live in the capital of Seoul. Only 9.6% of the country’s population is over the age of 65.

The population’s religious and spiritual beliefs are: 25% Christian, 25% Buddhist, Confucius, Shaman, and 50% none.

The prevalence rate of HIV/AIDS in adults is less than .1% in South Korea, one of the lowest in the world.

On ferries heading to or from South Korea, you'll find people wearing small pieces of sticky plaster behind their ears. This is kimitae, supposedly a cure for sea-sickness, which can be found at local pharmacies.

The Mystical Beauty Tonle Sap Lake in Cambodia

Tonle Sap Lake is known to the natives as the “Sea of the Fresh Water.” The lake is the lifeline of the Khmers as its pattern of movement provided rhythm of daily life, and serves as a source of fish and rice. Residents of the village literally reside in houses that stay afloat on the river and lake. An unusual characteristic of this river is that its water flow changes, depending on the season. As the rainy season arrives and the water level rises, residents move their houses by boat closer to shore. During the dry season, they again move their houses, but this time toward the lake!

Although a trip to Tonle Sap is a very touristy experience, my family and I really enjoyed our experiences there. The stark poverty and open garbage strung along the route used to get to the boats might make some uncomfortable, however, do not let this deter you. You will see genuine Cambodian life here, including village homes and fishing activity. And might I add, the sunsets here are absolutely beautiful!! (As you can see in the image)

We are happy to arrange a trip for you and your family to visit Tonle Sap Lake, and the wondrous mystical beauty one can only find in Cambodia.

Young Japanese Social Networking

Big changes in young Japan.

Some Japanese traditions, such as jobs for life are falling away as the country adjusts to the Internet society. Until now, the rigidly structured society of Japan has never before encouraged the kind of personal, opinionated and sometimes messy way of communicating that Americans have become so accustomed to.

In America, sites like MySpace.com seem to have replaced "hanging out" for young people. Similarly, urban Japanese have recently embraced the Internet to share feelings and experiences with others. The Internet certainly seems to be shaking up the way some Japanese communicate and think - a change that once seemed impossible. A culture of hip and energetic entrepreneurs is certainly making a mark on society. Through Japanese networking sites like Mixi.com, people can share their emotions and experiences in a constantly formal, hierarchical society. It’s been quite interesting to see such contrast and development!

Our New Series: Kipling & Clark "Asian Quick Facts"

I've created a series called "Asian Quick Facts" that gives a snapshot of the compelling, interesting and beautiful places in the Pacific Rim we've visited. I hope this will entice you to want to take off on your own Kipling & Clark custom journey!

Look at all on one page or click on a country below. Keep coming back as we add more countries to our "Asian Quick Facts" list.

• Indonesia
• Thailand
• China
• Japan
• Korea
  

The Many Cultures of Asia Part I: China, Korea and Japan

I asked our family friend Jennifer Chen, a noted Asian arts and culture scholar, to put together a piece about the cultural differences between the most popular countries in Asia. You can visit these countries hundreds of times and never learn all there is to know about the history, art and people that make them so interesting and inspiring. Here's a short synopsis of Jennifer's review of China, Korea and Japan's cultural heritages and how they are linked with their contemporary circumstances:

China enjoys a history over 5000 years of splendid achievements in technology, art and philosophy. Chinese culture ranks among the oldest and most complex civilizations in the world. Throughout the imperial China, Chinese ideologies, writing system, bureaucracy and artistic creations were the most influential in East Asia. Through the famed Silk Road, Chinese inventions and cultural influences spread all the way across Asia to Europe. Confucianism reigned supreme, and has been the foundation of Chinese ethics. It has, however, struggled to retain its value during the Communist era.

Korea’s traditional culture is closely tied to China in religion, philosophy and writing system. While Chinese customs heavily influence social activities from the royal court to farmer’s households, artistic creations and daily lifestyle demonstrate characteristics distinctively Korean with pristine freshness and originality. The demarcation of North and South Korea as a result of the Korean War has created two social systems with traumatic schism and dramatic contrast. The democratic South Korea has become a superstar in technology, business as well as art and cultural developments.

Japanese culture throughout its long history has demonstrated an astonishing ability of assimilating and synthesizing foreign cultures it encounters. The culmination is a culture that draws from both East Asian roots and Western civilization, but is irrepressibly Japanese in its extraordinary exquisiteness and refinement. Devout preservation of traditions and cutting-edge development in technology form a fascinating feature of the Japanese society. The famed Zen gardens, tea ceremonies and the ubiquitous Japanese automobiles are among the most expressive examples of the unique Japanese cultural process.

Coming up next, Part II: Vietnam, Cambodia and Thailand

New Japan Entry Requirements

Thought to pass on some important information regarding new entry requirements for Japan.

Japan now requires foreign citizens to be fingerprinted, photographed and questioned every time they enter Japan. The new program went into effect on November 20th. People exempt from the checks include children under 16, diplomats and “special permanent residents", this is a euphemism for Koreans and other Asians brought to Japan as slave laborers during World War II and their descendants.

Law enforcement authorities say such thorough screening is needed to protect Japan from attacks by foreign terrorists. The New York Times reports that some foreign business leaders fear the screening could hurt Japan’s standing as an Asian business center, especially if it is inefficiently carried out, leading to long waits at airports. Business groups warn that such delays could make Japan less attractive than rival commercial hubs like Hong Kong and Singapore, where entry procedures are much easier.

Kipling & Clark in the News! Taking a Culinary Asia Tour

We are excited to be included in a news story on Emmy award winning travel journalist Peter Greenberg's travel Website. The story is about taking culinary vacations in Asia. (we love putting together culinary tours!) The title of the piece is: Noodling Around Asia: Culinary Vacations in the East.

Below is an excerpt from the piece. You can read the entire story here.

Excerpt: For a trip that will take you through multiple countries, try a private, immersive culinary tour offered by Kipling & Clark. This luxury outfitter can arrange customized tours, such as a 14-day Taste of Southeast Asia Tour to visit Vietnam, Cambodia, and Thailand. Culinary experiences include several cooking classes, private dinners with chefs, meet-and-greets with culinary experts, and visits to local markets along the way.

In Hanoi, Vietnam’s capital, a famed local chef leads visitors on a tour of the Hang Be Market, where they are taught how to select fresh ingredients for the Vietnamese dishes that they later prepare and consume. While in Saigon, travelers also get to visit the Cai Be floating market, where local buyers and sellers exchange goods from their small colorful boats.

And in Cambodia, travelers participate in a market tour led by a local chef and then enjoy a private cooking class at the Hotel De La Paix. Other options include a visit to the famed Four Seasons cooking school in Chiang Mai, Thailand and the Oriental Hotel in Bangkok, among others. Prices vary based on the customized tour. 800-354-3404, www.kiplingandclark.com

By Kellan Connor for PeterGreenberg.com

Dubai: Disneyland for Adults

Dubai is a port of the United Arab Emirates which is composed of seven different emirates. The incredible scale of mass construction and emerging skyline is similar to that of Shanghai.

Seven star hotels, beautiful beach resorts and a world-class airport make Dubai what I like to call “Disneyworld for adults”, and it certainly doesn’t stop there. Dubai has perhaps the best quality shopping of anywhere we have ever been, with especially great prices for gold!

The area is extremely diverse and lively. During our trip it appeared as if everyone in Dubai was from somewhere else, including India, Pakistan, Russia, and Asia.

Bev, Zen and I stayed at the famous Ritz Carlton Dubai, located on the beach about 45 minutes from downtown. We experienced the very best service there, and the hotel even had a kids club! All-in-all Dubai offers something for the whole family! Check out a full itinerary for your family in our newly launched Kipling & Clark Private Luxury Family Expeditions section. http://www.kiplingandclark.com/pagesNew/family_expeditions.html

Ranthambore Tiger Preserves & The Oberio Vanyavilas

Ranthambore is hailed as one of India's finest wildlife locations, located in the vast and arid tract of eastern Rajasthan.

During our first night on the safari through Ranthambore Tiger Park, my family and I had an incredible 40 minute close-up tiger sighting! I have to admit I was a bit scared (actually more like terrified!), but our guide was both extremely reassuring and enjoyable. Besides, the sight was any photographer’s dream come true!

After such an adventure, we stayed at the highly acclaimed Oberoi Vanyavilas. General Manager Jay Rathore shared with us the hotel’s ideal of customer service: all staff members are hired based on attitude and personality vs. experience alone. The staff service was overwhelming hospitable, very personalized and full of smiles!!

We’d love for you and your family to experience such a delightful and exciting trip. Find out more by checking out our NEW Kipling & Clark Private Luxury Family Expeditions! http://www.kiplingandclark.com/pagesNew/family_expeditions.html

The Vibrant Contemporary Art Scene in China

Factory 798 Dashanzi Art District in Beijing
The area around Factory 798 is a fresh, avant-garde and trendy space that hosts modish artistic, cultural and commercial activities. Its American equivalent is New York's Greenwich Village. This art district combines the past, present and future of the "New China" and its unique Soho and socialist culture.

In 2001, manufacturers based here started pulling out and a number of Beijing’s best artists flocked to the area attracted by the cheap rents, large spaces and the ample natural light pouring through the huge ceiling windows. New contemporary art exhibitions seem to open each week. The artists were soon followed by businessmen opening chic coffee shops and western and Chinese restaurants.

A visit to 798 is a great way to spend an afternoon! Try Vincent’s for crepes or a latte and dessert at the At Café.

50 Moganshan Road
This is the Shanghai version of Factory 798 in Beijing, often referred to as the cradle of the modern art movement in Shangahi. 50 Moganshan Road is a maze of old workshops where over 20 artists have their studios. Nearby is a clutch of well-established galleries, of which Art Scene, BizArt, Eastlin and ShanghArt are well worth a visit. Leading Chinese artists include Zhou Teihai, Shi Yong and Ding Yi.

This is a favorite of my wife Beverly. As a matter of fact, there are several unique pieces from 50 Moganshan Rd on display in our home!

THE Place to be in Hong Kong

Hong Kong is amazing; it is incredibly busy and the downtown cityscape is stunning. THE place to be on the island is Lan Kwai Fong - it is Hong Kong’s trendiest chic spot for food and drinks.

Its two main streets, D’Aguilar and Lan Kwai Fong, are packed with office staff and affluent expats enjoying the many restaurants, bars, pubs and shops.

Choose from cheap and cheerful establishments, such as Wang Fu with its delicious gao-ji dumplings and other Beijing fare. Or, one of my family's favorite restaurants - Indochine 1929 - has outstanding ambiance. It is an elegant French and Vietnamese setting (think of LeColonial in Chicago!), and authentic Vietnamese cuisine.

This world-renowned district is perfect for drinks with clientele or dinner with family and friends. My wife Bev and I thought it was chic and fun wrapped up in one fabulous experience. See all there is to enjoy in Hong Kong in one of our itineraries to China & Hong Kong!
http://www.kiplingandclark.com/pagesNew/destinations_sampItins.html

The Beauty of Bhutan

A most striking feature of Bhutan is its architecture. I’ve found the style and color that characterize the buildings and houses in the kingdom to be a distinct source of aesthetic pleasure.

The Dzongs, imposing 17th century structures built on a grand scale without drawing and without a single nail, are outstanding examples of the best in Bhutanese architecture.

The historic Punakha Dzong sprawls at the confluence of the Phochu and Mochu rivers. It was built by Shabdrung Nawang in 1637 and serves as the winter residence of the head abbot, Je Khenpo. One can only feel reverence and awe when entering such an structure.

The Bhutanese have a profound love for their land and its historic values that is truly unmatched. We would gladly make arrangements for you to share in such an experience!

Exciting News! We're Launching a New Family Division!

We are very pleased to announce the launch of our new division focusing on family luxury travel! Kipling & Clark FAMILY LUXURY EXPEDITIONS creates custom-designed journeys to Greater China, Japan, Southeast Asia and India-Bhutan for the entire family to enjoy together – kids, parents and grandparents.

We've launched our Family Luxury Expeditions division because of the great demand from our clients to create high-end, high-touch, personalized journeys that the entire family can enjoy together. My wife and I have been traveling throughout Asia with our seven year old daughter since she was a toddler, and every city we’ve been to in Asia has been warmly welcoming of our family. Many of the Buddhist-based and Confucian-centered Asian cultures fully embrace the family ideal and consider children national treasures; this love for children is fully displayed while interacting with visiting families - it’s a beautiful exchange that knows no boundaries.

Jay Xu, the Pritzker Chairman of the Department of Asian and Ancient Art at the Art Institute of Chicago, tells us one of the most amazing travel experiences he's ever had was the personalized tour of Vietnam, Cambodia and Burma that Kipling & Clark planned for his family earlier this year:

“My wife, daughter and I shared an extraordinary, five-star, world-class adventure; but what we remember most is the joy of experiencing the culture and people of these amazing places - together.”

Many of the five-star hotels and resorts in Asia are overwhelmingly kid-friendly, offering activities for kids that include art classes, traditional music and dance classes, kid-conscious yoga/spa treatments, swimming parties and visits to local schools.

Please check out our Family Luxury Expeditions sample itineraries. We'd love to create a custom journey for you and your family - it will be a memorable trip the entire family can enjoy together!

http://www.kiplingandclark.com/pagesNew/family_expeditions.html
This is the link to paste into your browser to read our amazing FAMILY LUXURY itineraries.

Listening to the Beautiful Music of Lijiang China

If you have an opportunity to visit Lijiang, I suggest making time for the Naxi Ancient Music Ensemble; it is truly an authentic Naxi cultural experience. My family and I find the performances interesting and entertaining. The performances consist of ancient Chinese court music and Naxi (a Yunnan minority) folk songs.

Ancient musical traditions have survived in the Lijiang region because of two reasons: the Lijiang region is relatively isolated, and because of the infusion of Han Chinese culture to the Lijiang region during the Ming Dynasty.

Experiencing Agricultural Life on the Mekong River

The Mekong Delta, also known as the “Nine Dragon River Delta,” is the region in southwest Vietnam where the Mekong River empties into the Pacific Ocean. During a trip to Vietnam with my family, we set out on an excursion to My Tho in the Mekong Delta for a taste of agricultural life on the mighty Mekong River.

We had a blast! After exploring a village that raises fish, we stepped off the boat to stroll around a Quoi An fruit orchard to visit a coconut craft ware making home, and fruit-drying kilns. This was an interesting way to experience the daily life of people who live along the river.

Upon our arrival at Ben Truc – Phong Phu garden, we sampled some tasty Mekong Delta fruit while enjoying traditional local music. We interacted with the locals and felt completely immersed in their traditional culture. Our trip concluded with us on a row boat exploring the scenic water palm canals. I highly suggest lunch at Ngoc Gia Trang restaurant for some delicious Mekong specialties! This was truly a fabulous way to spend the day with my family.

Tofuya Ukai - A Meal to Remember

Tofuya Ukai is a restaurant with a design aesthetic nostalgic of a vast Edo-period mansion. Tofuya Ukai is located at the foot of the Tokyo Tower; this gorgeous building is a replica of the Eiffel Tower.

On a family trip to Tokyo last spring, my wife and daughter and I had lunch here. The food and service were wonderful. A hostess in a kimono directed us past antique sake brewing equipment into a brilliant tatami room, with views of waterfalls and aged fruit trees and beautiful pebbled grounds.

The food! Each dish was a charming masterpiece, delicately arranged on handmade ceramics. After dining, we strolled to the outdoor ponds, where the kaleidoscopic carp make an artistic statement – in Tokyo; even the fish make a design statement!

Tofuya Ukai has developed a marvelous reputation; its 550 seats are always booked weeks in advanced.

Quick Facts about Indonesia

- Indonesia is the world's most populated Muslim nation.

- Indonesia is home to the world’s largest lizard: the Komodo dragon. It is also home to world's largest flower: the rafflesia arnoldi.

- More than 17,500 islands make-up the country of Indonesia.

- There are 14 televisions for every 100 people in Indonesia, compared to 84 for every 100 people in the United States.

Cruising through Burma on the Irrawaddy River

The Irrawaddy River flows 2000 km down through the center of Burma (officially the Union of Myanmar) and is considered the lifeline of the country, nourishing the farmlands and allowing the easy transportation of goods.

The treasures along this mighty, culture-rich river can best be experienced aboard the RV Pandaw 1947, a two-night cruise that offers wonderful village stopovers that some of the more luxurious cruises cannot match. Here's what some of what my family and I experienced on this expedition:

-- Day 1: We took a shore excursion to a local village to experience a very authentic, illuminating look at local village life. The village children are absolutely angelic! Burmese children are perhaps the most beautiful in all of Southeast Asia, nearly all wear bark-faced makeup!

-- Day 2: We stopped at a pottery-making village with a population of approximately 1,000 people. We were so fortunate to visit the village the same time as their pre-independence local games. Burma Independence Day from the U.K. is January 4th, so always try to book the Pandaw during this period. We were visiting the village with our traveling companions the Xu family. My daughter Zennia and Jay Xu's wonderful daughter Toni watched the “High School Musical” movie in our cabin at night. They were quite comfortable there. I certainly recommend this trip for the whole family!

The beautiful culture of Burma is truly unparalleled. We would be happy to assist you in experiencing this extraordinary place.

Todaiji Buddhist Temple in Nara, Japan - a must see!

Tōdai-ji (東大寺), the Eastern Great Temple, is one of the most impressive temples in all Japan and it is atop my list of must-sees if you are visiting Japan. Not only does it house Japan’s largest statue of Buddha, but it is also the world’s largest wooden building!

Nara was the first capital of Japan in the 8th century, and is about an hour and a half drive from Kyoto. One of the first things I noted was the large Chinese Buddhist influence in this area. The atmosphere was much more intimate when compared to the more crowded Kyoto, and predates anything historically in Kyoto.

The temple is certainly worth the visit, and the huge iron-bronze Buddha figures are tremendous! Of the many temples throughout Japan, the Todaiji Temple is a must see.

Early Evening Baci Ceremony, Luang Prabang, Laos

This evening ceremony is among the most fascinating of Laotian cultural traditions. My wife and our daughter, then only four years old, participated in a Baci ceremony and thought it was the highlight of our visit to Luang Prabang.

The Baci ceremony pre-dates the arrival of Buddhism in Laos (8th century) and is considered the most respectful form of welcome. During the ceremony, selected individuals tie strings around their wrist believing the strings will protect the wearer. It is suggested the strings must not be removed for at least three days. The ceremony is highlighted by the accompaniment of music and traditional dance.

It's a very moving ceremony. The experience remains unmatched for our family. Laos is certainly a place you should consider visiting with your family. You can check out our full Laos itinerary here (paste this into your browser): http://kiplingandclark.com/pagesNew/KC_Thai_Cambodia_Fam_Itin.pdf

By the way, the beautiful picture above is of Wat Mai, the largest temple in Luang Prabang, in north central Laos on the Mekong River.

Angkor Wat - Mystical, Fascinating and Awe-Inspiring

In the past 25 years, I have logged more than a half-million air miles visiting dozens of exciting, beautiful and compelling destinations in the Pacific Rim, but one of the most amazing trips I have ever enjoyed was the round-the-world month-long family travel experience I shared with my wife and 6-year-old daughter Zen earlier this year. We were joined for part of our travels by our good friend Jay Xu, the Pritzker Chairman of the Department of Asian and Ancient Art at the Art Institute of Chicago, and his lovely wife Jennifer and their engagingly artistic daughter Toni. The Xu family traveled with us to Vietnam, Cambodia and Burma, my family and I continued onto India and Dubai.

There are so many wonderful highlights from this trip, but one of the most memorable is of our stay in Cambodia, and our visit to Angkor Wat.

Angkor Wat is a temple that is considered one of the world's archaeological and architectural treasures. Angkor Wat was built for King Suryavarman II, who ruled the Khmer Empire in the early 12th century. It is simply, amazing.

Here are some highlights from our time in Angkor Wat:

--- Surrounded by man-made lakes with lush overgrown foliage, I feel the Angkor complex is perhaps the most compelling archaeological and architectural treasure in all of Asia. Do not be deterred by the ever-increasing, overflowing crowds - this place is awe-inspiring!
--- Built between the 7th and 11th centuries, the various temples in the Angkor complex are devoted to Hindu and Buddhist deities, with artistic, meticulously detailed carvings that are amazingly well preserved. Many of the temple carvings depict religious stories reflecting Hindu and Buddhist cosmology, as well as engaging scenes from daily Khmer life. Because of our friend Jay’s in-depth knowledge of Khmer history and culture, his fascination with the temples can only be described as euphoric. My daughter, Zen, gave him the nickname of “Temple Turtle” as he could not be separated from the temples!
--- Our locally contracted guides take solemn pride in explaining their Khmer culture to our clients – their earnest and sincere manner is a reflection of the Cambodians’ simple sense of decency and warmth. These people touch you in a way you may never forget.
--- Angkor Wat is the most majestic and well-known of the hundreds of well-preserved temples that remain from the Khmer Empire. Our other favorite and very interesting sites include Banteay Srei and Angkor Tom (Bayon Temple).
--- In order to view the temples in the best possible light with the least number of tourists, we recommend an early departure, about 6:30am from our favorite hotel in Siem Reap, The Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor. (The Personality Suites cannot be beat!)

I would love to tell you more about mystical Angkor Wat and all there is to experience in Cambodia and Thailand. Call us to discuss arranging a luxury, personalized journey for you and your family - meantime, take a look at our itinerary, paste this link into your browser: http://kiplingandclark.com/pagesNew/KC_Thailand_Family_Tour_Itin2.pdf

Visiting the Thai Elephant Conservation Center in Chiang Mai, Thailand

For the past 4500 years, elephants have been captured, domesticated and used for labor, transportation and even warfare. The Thai government created the Thai Elephant Conservation Center to educate the public about elephants, and it works to ensure their survival in the future. If you are ever in Chiang Mai, I highly recommend a private elephant trek to discover the vibrancy of this unique center. My family and I spent an afternoon there and enjoyed an amazing learning experience.

When an elephant is born into domestication, it is assigned a mahout (an elephant caretaker) who will be responsible for the elephant the rest of the mahout’s life. When I asked about the nature of the relationship, it was described as companionship: they are a lifelong team.

Here's something else we learned about these great beasts: elephants are quite graceful in mud, stepping carefully and never slipping - more solid than an SUV!

Part of the center’s mission is to promote the elephant as a healthy element of eco-tourism and increase understanding of the animals. If you are in Chiang Mai, be sure to stop at the Elephant Conservation Center, it's an experience you'll never forget.

Great News If You're Traveling To Hong Kong this Fall

We are happy to announce today that beginning in November, our company travNET will offer non-stop service from Los Angeles to Hong Kong through our contracted preferred travel partner United Airlines.

The new, non-stop LA to Hong Kong flight provides direct service to Ho Chi Minh City. It also offers an additional connection to Singapore. We are very proud of our valued, longstanding relationship with United Airlines, and this new non-stop route from Los Angeles to Hong Kong enables us to continue providing our clients with the highest level of service.

For information about visiting Hong Kong and other parts of China, check out: http://kiplingandclark.com/pagesNew/destinations_china.html

The Athleticism and Ancient Ritual of Sumo (相撲)

If you are planning a trip to Tokyo, you must be sure to include a Sumo (相撲) experience. Sumo is a unique part of Japanese culture; it is Japan's national sport.

Two wrestlers face off in a circular area called a dohyō (土俵). The basic rules are simple: the wrestler who either first touches the floor with something else than his sole, or leaves the ring before his opponent, loses. The fights usually last only a few seconds. The main Sumo tournaments are held six times per year, every other month beginning January.

If you cannot attend a Sumo match, an early morning private Sumo wrestling practice session is most compelling. In Musashigawa Beya my family and I were given a unique opportunity to see the Sumo wrestlers in a practice session; it was an amazing experience. Despite their weight and immense girth, the wrestlers displayed astonishing agility and durability.

I encourage you to attend a Sumo practice session or a Sumo match – we’re happy to make the arrangements for you!

Quick Facts about Thailand

- The Karen hill tribes of northern Thailand are also known as the Long Neck People. Starting at a very young age, girls wear heavy brass necklaces to elongate their necks. Women with long necks are considered to be the most beautiful in their village.

- Thailand has the potential to be the next Napa Valley. It has a burgeoning wine industry centered on the cool hills of Khao Yai where chenin blanc grapes prosper.

- Southeast Asia’s largest aquarium is located in Bangkok’s Siam Paragon shopping center: SiamOceanWorld. http://www.siamoceanworld.co.th/

- The popular Red Bull energy drink has its origins in Thailand. It was originally called Krating Daeng, or Red Gaur, a type of fox.

Bangkok

I was pleased this week to be asked by a producer from PeterGreenberg.com to contribute to a feature on Peter's Website named "Off the Brochure". Peter is an Emmy award-winning journalist; he's the Travel Editor for NBC’s Today show, CNBC and MSNBC. He's also a best-selling author. I was asked to give some recommendations for travelers who want to experience Bangkok beyond the typical tourist sites.

One of my suggestions included enrolling in a cooking school. Ever think to do that on your vacation?!

You can check out the entire feature at: http://www.petergreenberg.com/2007/08/14/off-the-brochure-bangkok/

I am fortunate to have visited Bangkok at least 20 times! I thought to share with you my three favorite things to do in Bangkok:

- Take a private long-boat excursion through Bangkok's many residential canals. Here you see the entire spectrum of Thai life from the high-end wealthy estates to the more modest homes, along with floating markets and spirit houses. There are many great spots to stop for lunch!

- My wife, daughter and I always love returning to one of the most luxurious hotels in the world, The Oriental. One of our favorite things to do is to spend a relaxing afternoon at The Oriental's wonderful spa, situated across the river from the hotel in a Thai-style golden teak wood house. The Oriental truly defines understated luxury. Check it out here: http://www.mandarinoriental.com/bangkok/

- Antique shopping is terrific in Bangkok. Some of the most interesting pieces of Asian art we have acquired have come from our visits to Bangkok. We had a beautiful 19th century Tibetan chest shipped back to Chicago from our last visit!

At Kipling & Clark, we've created a wonderful sample itinerary for an expedition to Cambodia and Thailand. Paste this link into your browser to see what your trip could look like:

http://www.kiplingandclark.com/pagesNew/KC_Thailand_Family_Tour_Itin2.pdf

I think you'll be amazed at all there is to experience - I know I'm looking forward to my next visit!

Quick Facts About China

- 16 out of the 20 most polluted cities in the world are located in China.

- Shanghai had 15 skyscrapers in 1978 and by last year, it had about 3,000 - more than LA and Chicago combined.

- In 2006, Hong Kong’s stock exchanged raised $42.7 billion in IPOs – more than London, Tokyo, or New York.

India and Yunnan - Amazing Destinations

Kipling & Clark recently expanded our destinations to include the Yunnan Province of China, and India. Now for anyone who has ever had an interest in India, this is the time go. India is the most multi-cultural, colorful destination in all of Asia, and Kipling & Clark’s 11- day private luxury tour combines culture with pampered adventure. A custom itinerary may include a stay at the regal Lake Palace Hotel in Udaipur, a visit to the tiger reserves in Ranthambore National Park and a tour of the priceless art collection of the Imperial Hotel in New Delhi.

Along with India, we are very pleased to add beautiful and ethnically-diverse Yunnan to our destinations. Picture this: walking the cobblestone alleyways of Lijiang, being awed by the mountain vistas of the Pudacuo National Park in the Tibetan township of Shangri-La County and enjoying the highest level of personal attention and service at the two luxurious Banyan Tree Resorts and the much-anticipated Aman Resort in the Diqin area northwest of Zhongdian. These are among the finest resort properties in the world! Kipling & Clark is thrilled to continue providing our clients with this level of world-class style, sophistication and spectacular hospitality.

Quick Facts about Japan

- Unlike any other Asian country, you can drink the tap water in Japan.

- Travelers must use Japanese Yen – in Japan no one likes to accept United States currency.

- Tipping is practically unheard of Japan. All restaurants and hotels add a 10% service charge and a 5% consumption tax to the final bill.
After leaving a tip at a nice restaurant in Kyoto this past April, two of the restaurant staff literally ran after me and my family believing we had left the money accidentally!

- Reflecting Japan's egalitarianism, CEOs in Japan earn on average 60 times their average employee's pay in contrast to the U.S., where the average CEO makes 450 times the pay of their average employee.

Ni hao! Konichiwa!

I am thrilled to launch this blog because it gives me a platform to express my great passion, interest, savvy and love for the Far East. I founded Kipling & Clark on two concepts – a love for Asia, and a desire for independent, high-touch luxury travel. I’ve been in love with Asia and Asian culture since my college days, and upon graduation I launched what would be a 25 year career in luxury travel, specifically luxury travel to the Pacific Rim. Early in my career, while working at Korean Air, I spent weeks at a time in Korea, China, and Southeast Asia. Business trips lead to pleasure trips and I quickly became an expert in traversing the lands and air travel. My wife Beverly shared my interest in the Pacific Rim, but she also had a passion for exclusive travel –staying at beautiful luxury properties and touring the Far East’s most unique locations. Ultimately, Beverly’s penchant for independent travel inspired the creation of Kipling & Clark.

The Far East has granted us so many wonderful travel experiences, as well as many long-lasting Asia-based friendships. China, in particular, gave us our most precious gift, our daughter Zennia, whom we adopted from Guangdong Province six years ago. As a family, Beverly, Zen and I have traveled together to 12 Asian countries, logged over 300,000 United Airlines miles, and experienced some of the most exotic resorts and hotels in the world, including nearly every Four Seasons and Peninsula hotel property in Asia, the Amankila in Bali, the wonderful Raffles hotels in Cambodia, and the magnificent Oberoi resorts of India. Following in the steps of her parents, Zen has become a truly intrepid and pampered Kipling and Clark traveler!

I wish this blog to showcase all the beautiful, interesting and compelling places in Asia that hold a special place in my heart. I also want to introduce you to friends and colleagues who have experienced these once-in-a-lifetime trips to Asia – you will be so impressed with their excitement, insights and experiences. Thanks for coming along with me; we’re going to have a truly fabulous trip!