SE Asia

LAOS and VIETNAM KARST October 21 - November 9, 2012 19 nights, 20 days Dates are approximate at this time

Dwight and Mary Deal, Focused Tours and Kim’s World Travel

Dwight and Mary made a research trip in November and December 2011 where we visited friends, colleagues, caves and cultural sites in Vietnam and Laos. A primary mission was to interview service providers for our upcoming group tour. Modern day Vietnam is developing with explosive vigor with world-class facilities appearing almost overnight. This includes the discovery of some very spectacular caves and karst, the opening of new tourist caves, and the building of modern amenities.

Laos is a more laid-back experience. Most of the Lowland Lao people are Theravada Buddhists and are notably gentle, quiet, and polite. We found them warm and welcoming. The countryside is SPECTACULAR, and the food is DELIGHTFUL!

You can view Dwight's posts on Cave Chat describing our 2011 exploratory trip, though note that more sites are shown than will be on the tour. You do not have to be registered to view it: http://www.forums.caves.org/viewtopic.php?f=8&t=13148

If you click on the partial thumbnail image, you will see a larger view of the entire image in reasonable detail. Note: not all areas shown will be included in the 2012 tour.

To view the itinerary click here

Several folks who have traveled with us to China and the Balkans have reserved their space on this trip. If YOU are interested and have not already told us, you should let us know as soon as possible at FocusedTours@comcast.net.

When we receive costs from our vendors in Laos and Vietnam (guides/transportation/accommodations), we will post a good estimate for the tour cost. We will need to purchase air tickets in the spring of 2012 in order to secure seats for our group.

What IS Karst?

View Vietnam and Laos Images

View Vietnam and Laos Itinerary

Read Reviews from Past Travelers

To ask questions or to reserve your spot on the tour,
send an email to FocusedTours@comcast.net.