OPTIONAL EXTENSION TO ANGKOR, CAMBODIA

Sunday, December 17, 2006
A Lost Empire

Rivaling such marvels as the Pyramids of Giza in Egypt or the Citadel of Machu Picchu in Peru, one simply cannot come this far without visiting the amazing temple complex at Angkor in Cambodia. Those participating in this tour extension depart Bangkok this morning on a flight to Siem Reap, Cambodia. Our guide leads us through the mighty gate of Angkor Thom into this celestial metropolis, once forgotten and swallowed by the jungle, with many sculptural stone wonders. One of the world’s largest monuments, Angkor Wat floats like a mirage in a mile-wide lake. Carved galleries depict the Ramayana epic and the military conquests of the Khmer kings who once ruled over an empire that stretched through Thailand all the way to Burma.     (Breakfast)

Monday, December 18, 2006
Jungle Wonders

Travel to the Phnom Kulen National Park on a lofty plateau overlooking Angkor’s distant temple treasures. Hike along a narrow path to a log bridge above a sacred, mystical stream (whose stone bed has been sculpted with hundreds of Hindu phallic symbols), that winds downstream to a magnificent waterfall. Visit Preah Ang Tho, a shrine of a sleeping Buddha carved from a single, massive stone. Take a vigorous hike deeper into the jungle. Here the trail ends at a holy shrine where Cambodians come to worship at Hindu carvings of Vishnu, Shiva, Lakhsmi and Brahma. Also visit Angkor’s treasure, the pink sandstone palace Banteay Srei.     (Breakfast)

Tuesday, December 19, 2006
Celestial City

We continue our Angkor adventure early to take advantage of the cool morning. Wander, awestruck, through the jungle-engulfed temples, towers, palaces, and ritual baths. Explore the Eastern Mebon, a terraced pyramid that was once an island on a man-made lake larger than all of ancient Rome. Late flight back to Bangkok. Overnight at the Miracle Grand Convention Hotel near the airport for the convenience of return flights.     (Breakfast)

Wednesday, December 20, 2006
Departure

Tour extension ends officially after breakfast. Arrange your return flight home for any convenient time today. We provide one group transfer to the airport timed to facilitate the greatest number of departing guests.     (Breakfast)