From its sweet and spicy cuisine to lush and dense jungles and stunningly gorgeous beaches, there is not a whole lot not to like about Southeast Asia. Culturally rich and breathtakingly beautiful, this area (Thai Land, Vietnam, Cambodia, and Laos) of the world has long been a favorite destination for adventurous travelers.

Ancient temples dotting the green hillsides, white sand beaches, rice terraces and food that will wow your taste buds distinguish this gorgeous part of the world. Southeastern Asia's turmoil in the past few generations have only proven the resiliency and spirit of the people and both Vietnam and Cambodia in particular have healed their wounds and rebuilt in a way that preserves the countries' ancient past with its future. If you are wondering how best to explore this unique and incredible area of the world, a great way can be to sign up for a small group adventure tour. This way, you are sure not to miss a beat as you travel to all the best destinations in Southeast Asia and get to experiences places and people in ways that would be impossible on your own.

So, ok, I know what you are thinking. "A travel tour? Isn't that what old people do?" The answer is no. The truth is travel tours have come a long way since the days of giant air-conditioned buses and old ladies. Today there are tours designed specifically for the independent, adventure traveler. That's right-active, interesting and adventurous tours that allow travelers to explore and experience a foreign place.

First off, they keep the groups small, usually capping out at 16 people, so you won't be traveling around with some awkwardly huge group of gawking tourists. Second, these tours don't just scratch the surface of the places you visit. In fact, by using a combination of local and experienced guides, you'll often see and experience MORE than you would on your own. Also, because these tours have already been developed to showcase the best of the best, you'll save yourself from countless hours of potentially pointless research trying to find out where to go and what to eat. Oh, and don't worry, you definitely won't be experiencing any part of Southeast Asia from the window of some bus the entire time. Even the shorter Southeast Asia adventure tours have travelers moving about on longtail boats, trains, ferries, foot, tuk-tuks and even on elephants.

East Coast Island Hopping Thailand boasts some of the finest islands and beaches in the world, with azure waters, white sands and lush forested interiors that all combine to create this unique paradise.

Our relaxed trips to southern Thailand combine island hopping between exotic locations with time to experience a little of the local life through the traditional way of life and of course the food. You will have the chance to snorkel with tropical fish, indulge in the art of Thai cooking and even ride an elephant. Or you may simply decide to relax and pass away the time away under a coconut palm!

From October to April we head to the west coast, and from May to September we visit the islands in the Gulf of Thailand, giving you year-round options to relax and experience these beautiful areas.

Asian Explorer This is the big one. Four countries - the jewels of Indochina in thirty three days. It is an exciting and memorable trip, taking in Thailand, Laos, Vietnam and Cambodia with their breathtaking contrast in cultures, history and scenery.

Take the journey that is sure to delight and inspire you. This adventure trip will guide you to all the must see places in South East Asia. You will have the opportunity to see the amazing people and places that have survived wars and genocide to thrive in an amazing and beautiful place to make South East Asia what it is today. A vibrant and culturally rich region of the world.

The Great Indochina Loop Get set to discover something new and different every day, as we travel from the hidden treasures of Thailand and the laidback lanes of Laos, to the fabulous vibrancy of Vietnam and the engaging charisma of Cambodia. Get to know the locals, sample sumptuous cuisines, sail over pristine waters and scramble through a wealth of temples on this great adventure that gives you a chance to experience the heart of enthralling Indochina.

Best of Cambodia and Vietnam The best of Cambodia and Vietnam is unveiled on this journey from Bangkok to Hanoi. Discover the region's culture and beauty as we visit the stunning temples of Angkor, take a cross-border boat journey along the Mekong and immerse in Vietnam's markets and vibrant streets. Add to the adventure an overnight boat-stay on Halong Bay, friendly locals and lots of scrumptious food, and the only thing left for you to do is choose a date.

Source: bootsnall

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About the Author

ACTIVETRAVEL ASIA (ATA) offers a wide selection of Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia and Myanmar adventure tours, including hiking and trekking, biking, motorcycling, overland touring and family travel packages.