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Join Opportunity Travel for a 7-Day, First Class Adventure in Southeast Asia Opportunity Travel’s Southeast Asia Tour to Thailand & Malaysia February 24 - March 3, 2019 Chiang Mai, Thailand - Penang, Malaysia Post-Tour Following International Living’s 2019 Southeast Asia Fast Track Your Retirement Overseas Conference Bangkok, Thailand – February 21-23 Only 10 Spots Available

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Page 1: Opportunity Travel’s · Bangkok to Chiang Mai, Thailand – Half Day Tour of Chiang Mai Includes Lunch and Dinner We’ll depart from the Avanti Atrium Hotel in Bangkok – where

Join Opportunity Travel for a 7-Day, First Class Adventure in Southeast Asia

Opportunity Travel’s Southeast Asia Tour to Thailand & Malaysia

February 24 - March 3, 2019

Chiang Mai, Thailand - Penang, Malaysia

Post-Tour Following International Living’s

2019 Southeast Asia Fast Track Your Retirement Overseas Conference Bangkok, Thailand – February 21-23

Only 10 Spots Available

Page 2: Opportunity Travel’s · Bangkok to Chiang Mai, Thailand – Half Day Tour of Chiang Mai Includes Lunch and Dinner We’ll depart from the Avanti Atrium Hotel in Bangkok – where

Dear Reader,

You’re invited for an unforgettable, seven-day excursion to two of our favorite

destinations in Thailand and Malaysia…

And our tailor-made tour ensures that you’ll see the best of each one.

Come along with us and discover Asia’s exciting, welcoming and exotic blend of rich

culture and tropical scenery… while enjoying the most luxurious accommodations

and fantastic cuisine.

You’ll get the chance to…

o Shop for authentic, hand-made, one-of-a-kind arts in Chiang Mai’s massive,

world-renowned Night Bazaar where you’ll also find almost anything you can

think of… a truly mind-boggling selection on offer that could challenge even

the most intrepid of shoppers…

o Visit a picturesque eco-agricultural village

where several hill and mountain tribes

demonstrate their unique customs and

heritage. This is where you’ll see the world-

renowned “long necked” Karen tribe and

shop for lovely handicrafts and trinkets…

o Ride on a two-seat rickshaw through

“Chiang Mai Old City” and learn about this historic city’s fascinating local

history and culture…

o Visit a 14th century monastery in Chiang Mai that houses the ashes of a

King… and attend a monk’s blessing ceremony while you’re there…

o Explore a six-acre tropical garden of spices

in Penang, which boasts more than 500

species of flora and fauna in a stunning

rainforest setting…

o Stroll through the colonial neighborhood of

George Town– inscribed as a UNESCO

World Heritage site in 2008…

Page 3: Opportunity Travel’s · Bangkok to Chiang Mai, Thailand – Half Day Tour of Chiang Mai Includes Lunch and Dinner We’ll depart from the Avanti Atrium Hotel in Bangkok – where

o Experience a colorful, lively market built in the 1800s and soak up old-world

charm while trying authentic and unique Penang delicacies…

o Take a funicular train ride to the top of a mountain, 2,733 feet above sea

level and explore a 130 million-year old rainforest…

o Plus so many more surprises we have planned for you!

Your tour will start in Chiang Mai, Thailand – “The Rose of the North” – founded

more than seven centuries ago as the capital of the Lanna Kingdom.

With its rich cultural history… incredible culinary scene… and gorgeous surrounding

countryside… Chiang Mai is a favorite of travelers from all over the world.

You’ll find Chiang Mai brimming with golden wats (temples), more than 300 of them,

some as old as the city itself. Walls of the old city and surrounding moat can still be

seen, along with teakwood houses, dragon sculptures, and intriguing alleyways.

Chiang Mai boasts a thriving arts and crafts

scene, plentiful outdoor adventure activities like

jungle trekking and bird watching, an incredible

selection of first-class restaurants, the previously

mentioned world-famous night bazaar, world-

renowned live music, and a whole lot more.

We’ll spend a total of three days and three nights

in Chiang Mai, in luxurious 5-star accommodations with ample time to explore the

city’s finest attractions.

Then it’s on to the extraordinary island of Penang in Malaysia… a fascinating fusion

of eastern and western influences.

Penang lies anchored on the Spice Route, just off Malaysia’s west coast, an ancient

seaport pivotal to the trade routes from Europe, the Orient, India and China.

Traders from around the world left behind a legacy that dramatically impacted this

country’s history, culture, religions, traditions… and its cuisine.

George Town is Penang’s capital city, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of

Asia’s most likable cities.

Page 4: Opportunity Travel’s · Bangkok to Chiang Mai, Thailand – Half Day Tour of Chiang Mai Includes Lunch and Dinner We’ll depart from the Avanti Atrium Hotel in Bangkok – where

Blending old and new, swanky shopping

complexes, refurbished Chinese manors, pubs

and artsy boutiques, cafes and studios, combine

together to embrace modernity while retaining a

well-preserved cultural heritage.

One of Malaysia’s most luxurious beachside

resorts will be our base for four nights – where

you’ll be pampered in lavish Malaysian style…

And here’s where you can relax and really indulge yourself. Fine white sand, calm

blue waters and swaying palm trees will make you feel like you’re in another world,

far away from the nearby city center.

Of course, we’ve allowed plenty of time for you to explore and experience these

two wonderful tropical destinations…

With their diverse landscapes… stunning scenery… welcoming locals… delicious

cuisine… plus so much more.

And by the way, you’ll find loads of great restaurants and other eating opportunities

within minutes of our hotels. So if you’re feeling hungry, venture out and try some

of these world-famous cuisines!

But please don’t delay if you’re interested in joining us on this trip

This is the kind of adventure you’ll remember for years to come… and the kind of

adventure most people only dream about.

You’ll be in a small group, with other fun-loving, like minded travelers…

Only the first 10 sign-ups are guaranteed a space – to ensure that you receive

the very best personal service and attention at all times.

With such limited availability, I expect this program to fill quickly.

That’s why it’s important to sign up now and guarantee your place. I’d really hate for

you to miss out.

Page 5: Opportunity Travel’s · Bangkok to Chiang Mai, Thailand – Half Day Tour of Chiang Mai Includes Lunch and Dinner We’ll depart from the Avanti Atrium Hotel in Bangkok – where

To learn more about this once-in-a-lifetime excursion and secure your spot – you’ll

find the pricing and our Day-by-Day Schedule right below.

We’re always happy to assist you… to answer your questions or help you with

special requests. Simply give us a call at 800 926 6575 or +561 243 6276, or drop us

an email at [email protected]

We look forward to traveling with you!

Barbara Perriello, Director

Opportunity Travel

Your Day-to-Day Schedule

Opportunity Travel’s Southeast Asia Tour to Thailand & Malaysia

February 24 - March 3, 2019 Chiang Mai, Thailand - Penang, Malaysia

Post-Tour Following International Living’s 2019 Southeast Asia Fast Track Your Retirement Overseas Conference

Bangkok, Thailand – February 21-23

Sunday – Day 1

February 24

Bangkok to Chiang Mai, Thailand – Half Day Tour of Chiang Mai Includes Lunch and Dinner

We’ll depart from the Avanti Atrium Hotel in Bangkok – where International Living

Australia’s 2019 Fast Track Retirement Overseas Conference is being held – and head to

the Suvarnabhumi Airport for a morning flight to Chiang Mai.

Page 6: Opportunity Travel’s · Bangkok to Chiang Mai, Thailand – Half Day Tour of Chiang Mai Includes Lunch and Dinner We’ll depart from the Avanti Atrium Hotel in Bangkok – where

Our local guides will meet us at the Chiang Mai International Airport and from

there a private coach will take us to our accommodations for the next three nights…

the 5-star Shangri-La Hotel Chiang Mai.

Conveniently located within Chiang Mai, this luxurious hotel has received many

awards for its legendary Asian hospitality including TripAdvisor’s Certificate of

Excellence and one of the “Top 100 Best Hotels in the World” by Conde Nast

Traveler.

During our stay at the Shangri La Hotel Chiang Mai you’ll have some

free time to enjoy the amenities and surrounding attractions.

Try a tasty meal at the Kad Kafé – featuring Thai, Indian, Chinese, Japanese,

European and Mediterranean specialties, prepared to order with the freshest

ingredients. Or, perhaps you’ll choose to sample some authentic Szechuan and

Cantonese cuisine at the chic China Kitchen. Drinks can be enjoyed at Dhala Pool

Bar while afternoon tea can be found at the Lobby Lounge.

Opportunities for fitness, rejuvenation and relaxation abound with a free-form

outdoor pool, tennis courts and a fully equipped fitness center. CHI, the Spa at

Shangri-La, offers a diverse menu of treatments based on traditional Asian healing

principles.

Other onsite facilities include complimentary WiFi access, 24-hour room service, a

business center, shopping arcade… and plenty of luxury to indulge in.

Just outside the Shangri-La Hotel Chiang Mai, you’ll find the best that Chiang Mai

has to offer.

Take a rickshaw ride down the small quiet lanes within the old town... explore the

many curio and antique shops nestled in teakwood houses… enjoy wandering

around shady tree-lined lanes that lead to numerous Thai Buddhist temples... and

there’s so much more to see and experience.

Lunch today will be at The Gallery, a charming open-air restaurant and art gallery

overlooking the Ping River. Built in 1892 by a Chinese immigrant, this architectural

gem – originally a silk shop – is decorated with teak wood in a traditional Lanna

Page 7: Opportunity Travel’s · Bangkok to Chiang Mai, Thailand – Half Day Tour of Chiang Mai Includes Lunch and Dinner We’ll depart from the Avanti Atrium Hotel in Bangkok – where

style. Their menu offers Thai food and also includes international selections.

Everything is prepared fresh using the best ingredients available.

After lunch, our tour of Chiang Mai will begin with a visit to the 600-year old Wat

Prathat Doi Suthep, one of the most historically and spiritually significant places in

Thailand. Its origins date back to 1382 and the legend surrounding the founding of

this temple is one of those mysteries that draws visitors to this enchanted land.

Following a drive up the Doi Suthep mountain’s winding road to 3,500 feet above

sea level, the wat is reached via a 306-step staircase flanked by two magnificent

nagas (serpents) which are said to bring good luck. If you prefer not to walk, you can

simply ride up in one of the cable cars.

Overlooking the picturesque city of Chiang Mai,

the terrace at the top is dotted with trees,

shrines, gardens and monuments. Steps lead up

to the inner terrace where the gleaming golden

chedi contains the holy relic of Lord Buddha.

A long promenade at the rear of the temple

provides a spectacular view of the city spreading out before you, bisected by the

Ping River. Make sure to bring your camera along to capture this unforgettable

panorama plus the abundant beautiful statues, murals and magical details of this

holy place.

Our afternoon includes a traditional rickshaw ride around the old walled city area.

We’ll weave through the streets and alleyways, pass markets and observe the lives

of locals who line the busy central road.

You’re sure to be captivated by the charm of the unique architecture… especially

the old temples.

One of our stops will be at the Wat Pra Singh (Monastery of the Lion Lord),

founded in the 14th century to hold the ashes of King Kham Fu. This monastery

also serves as the principal religious center of the Lanna Kingdom.

Afterwards, we’ll visit the Wat Chedi Luang, which houses a stunningly large

pagoda. It’s one of the most important temples in Chiang Mai.

Page 8: Opportunity Travel’s · Bangkok to Chiang Mai, Thailand – Half Day Tour of Chiang Mai Includes Lunch and Dinner We’ll depart from the Avanti Atrium Hotel in Bangkok – where

Here we’ll attend a monks’ blessing ceremony where they’ll chant their mantras and

sprinkle holy water on you… to bring you good luck. You’ll present offerings to them

in return – don’t worry, we’ll show you what to present them with.

And if you like, you can have an opportunity to speak with one of the Buddhist

monks.

Later this evening we’ll dine together at the splendid Le Grand Lanna, located at

the Mandarin Oriental Dhara Dhevi hotel and resort.

Tucked between sweeping roofs and centuries-old trees, Le Grand Lanna’s wooden

pavilions and precious artifacts offer a beautiful dining venue for sampling the best

in classic Thai and northern Lanna-style dishes.

This unique cuisine from the ancient Lanna Kingdom, is enjoyed as a Khantoke

dinner, shared around the table and accompanied by a performance of traditional

music and dance.

Page 9: Opportunity Travel’s · Bangkok to Chiang Mai, Thailand – Half Day Tour of Chiang Mai Includes Lunch and Dinner We’ll depart from the Avanti Atrium Hotel in Bangkok – where

After dinner we’ll head to Chiang Mai’s world famous Night Bazaar to do some

shopping.

If you’re a bargain hunter, shopping in the Night

Bazaar will keep you busy for hours. Inside you’ll

find countless stalls selling Hill Tribe crafts,

leather goods and clothing. Antiques are on the

top floor and outside you can buy just about

anything at the brightly-lit stalls that line the

streets.

And if you love to hunt for one-of-a-kind items, Chiang Mai’s Night Bazaar is the

place for you…

Bolts of hand-loomed silk shimmer in all the colors of sunset – palest pink to egg-

yolk yellow to hell-fire orange. On other stalls, silk and cotton table runners

resemble a peacock’s tail or a lavender garden. Here you’ll find handmade bags and

purses… wood carvings… hemp dragons... weird-looking insects and butterflies

forever encased behind glass... and so, so much more.

Day 2 - Monday

February 25

Chiang Mai, Thailand – Maesa Elephant Camp, Ban Tong Luang

Cultural Village Includes Breakfast and Lunch

We’ll start the day with breakfast at the Shangri-La Hotel Chiang Mai then head to

the Maesa Elephant Camp.

Maesa is one of the original and oldest elephant camps in Chiang Mai, founded in

1976 by Mr. Choochart Kalmapijit. For more than 40 years, his concern has been

the wellbeing of these animals – especially the elderly – with a strong focus on food

and nutrition.

You’ll have the opportunity to be a mahout (elephant trainer) for the day…

understand the language mahouts use to communicate with the animals… what it

takes to care for them… and even learn the secret of becoming a mahout!

Page 10: Opportunity Travel’s · Bangkok to Chiang Mai, Thailand – Half Day Tour of Chiang Mai Includes Lunch and Dinner We’ll depart from the Avanti Atrium Hotel in Bangkok – where

These trainers dedicate their lives to their elephant, often staying with them day

and night. Many mahouts come from the local Karen Hill Tribes (who we will visit

and learn about later today) and are so dedicated it becomes a 7-day a week 365-

day a year commitment.

After an introduction about elephant healthcare from the Camp veterinarian, you’ll

have a chance to get really hands on with the elephants through feeding and

bathing them.

Maesa has three sections: the Thai Elephant Care Center for eldery elephants; the

Elephant Nursery that houses the baby elephants and their mothers; and, the

Elephant Camp where shows, souvenir shops and tourist activities are held.

One thing is for sure, elephants in Thailand can no longer exist independently in the wild

due to loss of habitat – they need humans to care for them. Tourism helps to sustain the

remaining elephant population and provides a practical way for mahouts to sustain

their animals. Our natural curiosity and fascination for these majestic mammals has

made elephant tourism the most popular tourist activity in Chiang Mai today.

After our exciting morning with the elephants, we’ll sit down for a well-earned Thai

lunch!

Page 11: Opportunity Travel’s · Bangkok to Chiang Mai, Thailand – Half Day Tour of Chiang Mai Includes Lunch and Dinner We’ll depart from the Avanti Atrium Hotel in Bangkok – where

Ban Tong Luang Cultural Village

Following lunch, we’ll visit several hill and mountain tribes at this eco-agricultural

village whose unique costumes, languages and traditions are among Thailand’s

most vivid cultural heritage.

Lahu, Hmong, Palong, White Karen and the Long

Neck Karen (also known as Paduang) tribes are

made up mainly of refugees who fled to Thailand

from the neighboring countries of Myanmar

(Burma) or Laos.

As you stroll through the village, you’ll pass stilt

structures with teak-leaf thatch roofs, picturesque

rice paddies and fields containing water buffalo.

You’ll feel like you’ve stepped into the pages of National Geographic when you’re

greeted by the Long-Necked Karen tribe. These women are well known worldwide

for wearing numerous brass rings around their necks, making them appear to be

very elongated.

This tribe is renowned as well for their kinship with elephants and most of the mahouts

in Chiang Mai today come from the Karen tribe.

We’ll meet ladies from the Padaung tribe – who

stretch their ears over time with large, heavy

rings because they believe long ears enhance

beauty – and the women from the village of the

Palong tribe who wear rattan rings around their

waists.

While we learn about these fascinating tribes

people, you’ll have a chance to shop for lovely handicrafts and trinkets.

Ladies with considerable skill can be observed spinning or working at wooden

looms while others create beautiful needlework scenes on hand-woven material.

And you’ll find beautiful batik cloths here – with designs hand-drawn on hemp

fabric, then dyed using ancient traditional waxing methods.

Page 12: Opportunity Travel’s · Bangkok to Chiang Mai, Thailand – Half Day Tour of Chiang Mai Includes Lunch and Dinner We’ll depart from the Avanti Atrium Hotel in Bangkok – where

Dinner is on your own tonight and you have plenty of great options to choose from

at the hotel and nearby.

Day 3 - Tuesday

February 26

Chiang Mai, Thailand – Thai Farm Cooking Includes Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

We’ll enjoy breakfast this morning at our hotel and then we’re off to the Thai Farm

Cooking School, located at an organic farm outside of the city – a perfect setting

for our cooking class.

En route we’ll stop at a local fresh market to pick up a few ingredients and get an

introduction to this region’s produce and spices. At the farm you’ll harvest and

sample many different kinds of herbs, vegetables and fruits, all grown organically.

And then it’s time to cook! You can choose four different dishes from the menu

including curry, dessert, Thai soup – vegetarian and vegan options are available too.

Page 13: Opportunity Travel’s · Bangkok to Chiang Mai, Thailand – Half Day Tour of Chiang Mai Includes Lunch and Dinner We’ll depart from the Avanti Atrium Hotel in Bangkok – where

Be prepared to do some work. If you select a curry, you’ll be making it from scratch

with a mortar and pestle!

Class will finish up with lunch on the terrace overlooking the fish pond plus a

splendid view of the farm and nearby mountains. On top of all this, you get to take

home a booklet with all the recipes of the day.

You’ll have the rest of the afternoon free to relax and enjoy the amenities at our

hotel or do some sightseeing and shopping on your own.

Tonight we’ll dine together as a group at the elegant Le

Crystal where you’ll experience the finest French cuisine in

all of Chiang Mai. And, the scenery is spectacular – with

views of the flower garden and Ping River.

Le Crystal is famous for their foie gras and deep fried brie,

and their motto “procure the best possible ingredients and

treat them with the utmost respect” is reflected in each

dish. They also boast an impressive wine cellar.

After dinner, it’s back to the Shangri-La Hotel Chiang Mai to

overnight.

Day 4 - Wednesday

February 27

Chiang Mai, Thailand to Penang, Malaysia Includes Breakfast

After breakfast at the hotel this morning, you can relax at the hotel until we depart

for our afternoon flight to Penang, Malaysia via Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport.

Our local guides will greet us after we clear customs and immigration at the

Penang International Airport, and we will be transferred by deluxe private coach

to the Shangri-La’s Rasa Sayang Resort and Spa.

Page 14: Opportunity Travel’s · Bangkok to Chiang Mai, Thailand – Half Day Tour of Chiang Mai Includes Lunch and Dinner We’ll depart from the Avanti Atrium Hotel in Bangkok – where

We’ll be spending the next four nights at one of Malaysia’s most

luxurious beachside resorts.

Nestled beneath a verdant canopy of century-old rain trees and surrounded by

expansive tropical gardens, Rasa Sayang Resort and Spa conveys a lovely sense of

history and tradition…

And, this is an ideal place to wind down and enjoy contemporary Malaysian-style

luxury… alongside the emerald waters of world-famous Batu Ferringhi Beach.

Rasa Sayang’s dining options include The Spice Market Café offering a wide variety

of cuisines including Chinese, Indian, Peranakan, Japanese, Thai and Western. If

you’re looking for a casual meal and cocktails, there’s the poolside Pinang Bar and

Restaurant that serves lunch, dinner and snacks. For fine dining, the Feringgi Grill

presents signature dishes prepared by Chef Thibaut Pouplard.

Resort amenities include 24-hour room service, WiFi access, an inviting lagoon-style

pool complex, CHI - The Spa which offers Chinese and Malay treatments and a

unique herbal Asmaradana massage, par 3 pitch and putt golf course, tennis courts,

a fully-equipped health club, and direct access to Batu Ferringhi. beach and much,

much more.

Our arrival will be in the evening after a day of travel. Dinner is on your own

tonight.

Day 5 - Thursday

February 28

Penang, Malaysia – Food Trail Experience Includes Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Start today with a light (recommended) breakfast this morning at the hotel before

we begin our Food Trail Experience.

If you’re a “foodie,” you’ll feel like you’ve died and gone to heaven while we’re in

Penang – “the street food capital of Malaysia”.

Page 15: Opportunity Travel’s · Bangkok to Chiang Mai, Thailand – Half Day Tour of Chiang Mai Includes Lunch and Dinner We’ll depart from the Avanti Atrium Hotel in Bangkok – where

There’s no end to the dazzling array of stalls and restaurants selling delightful

plates of charcoal-baked crabs, salt-baked shrimp, and Penang’s signature fried flat

noodle dish, Char Koay Teow… and the list goes on… and on.

Our tour kicks off in George Town, home to Chowrastra Market, the oldest of its

kind, in operation since the 1800s. It’s a noisy, colorful, enigmatic and brazenly

charming place that leaves you buzzing with excitement.

Before you know it, you’ll be taking in the scene around you, haggling for cheap

clothes and knickknacks while tasting the unusual and unexpected. Our expert

guide will be happy to explain every quirky delight you see.

From there we’ll continue on to Little India where both spice and saree (sari) shops

line the streets alongside stalls selling delicious samosas and local Indian desserts.

And yes, we’ll even partake in a tasty lunch – so be sure to leave room!

Afterwards a trishaw will carry us through George Town – it’s the best way to enjoy

the lovely lanes and heritage sites.

Page 16: Opportunity Travel’s · Bangkok to Chiang Mai, Thailand – Half Day Tour of Chiang Mai Includes Lunch and Dinner We’ll depart from the Avanti Atrium Hotel in Bangkok – where

We’ll visit one of the city’s most interesting attractions – the elaborate 100-year old

Khoo Kongsi, the most famous clan house in Penang. A kongsi is where Chinese

families of the same surname gather to worship their ancestors. Still today, this

impressive architectural feat exemplifies good luck and prosperity.

Before we return to the hotel, we’ll stop at the eclectic China House – a traditional

compound of three heritage buildings linked by an open air courtyard and

converted into 14 spaces comprising shops, cafes, a restaurant, galleries, live music

and a bakery. You don’t want to miss their sensational ice cream!

You’ll have some time to rest and refresh before our dinner tonight at the resort’s al

fresco Pinang Restaurant and Bar, on Batu Ferringhi Beach.

First, we’ll watch a spectacular sunset and then

dine under the stars while savoring a lavish

barbeque by-the-sea. Succulent seafood, choice

cuts of meat, healthy salads and fabulous

desserts round out this full-day foodie

experience, while strolling musicians provide

entertainment.

Day 6 - Friday

March 1

Penang, Malaysia – The Habitat Penang Hill Includes Breakfast and Dinner

Today is entirely yours to relax and indulge yourself in the resort’s luxurious

facilities and lush surroundings… or you can explore nearby attractions on your

own.

Late this afternoon we’ll travel by train to The Habitat Penang Hill, for a nature

walk in this 130-million year old rainforest followed by dinner at the highest

restaurant in Penang.

Over millions of years, Malaysia’s rainforests have nurtured a tremendous diversity of

flora and fauna and served as home to countless unique mammal and bird species.

Page 17: Opportunity Travel’s · Bangkok to Chiang Mai, Thailand – Half Day Tour of Chiang Mai Includes Lunch and Dinner We’ll depart from the Avanti Atrium Hotel in Bangkok – where

Recognized as one of the world’s biodiversity hotspots, Conservation International listed

Malaysia as one of 17 countries described as “mega diverse”.

A few minutes’ walk from the Top Station of

Penang Hill Funicular Railway, we’ll start our

journey on The Habitat nature trail accompanied

by a specially-trained naturalist.

From there we’ll meander below the hill’s historic

bungalows and through the park where framed

lookouts capture the romance of Penang Hill –

featuring mesmerizing vistas of the rolling hills

and the Andaman Sea beyond.

Several themed gardens charmingly line the way – the Fern Garden, Butterfly Bank,

Fragrant Garden, and Ginger and Palm Grove. Planted with a view to delight your

senses, visitors are invited to touch, smell, see and hear the wonders of a jungle

undisturbed.

At the Curtis Crest Tree Top Walk, you can

capture a breathtaking, 360-degree panoramic

view of Penang Island from the highest viewing

platform. Golden rays of sunlight shine down on

the rainforest with Penang Bridge, George Town

and the Straits of Malacca in the distance.

We’ll have dinner this evening as a group and later on we’ll head back to the

Shangri-La’s Rasa Sayang Resort and Spa to overnight.

Day 7 - Saturday

March 2

Penang, Malaysia – Spice Garden Tour Includes Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

After breakfast at our hotel this morning, we’ll be heading out to visit a garden of

spices… and so much more.

Page 18: Opportunity Travel’s · Bangkok to Chiang Mai, Thailand – Half Day Tour of Chiang Mai Includes Lunch and Dinner We’ll depart from the Avanti Atrium Hotel in Bangkok – where

Penang’s Tropical Spice Garden includes six acres of lush tropical jungle

showcasing some 500 species of flora and fauna, with an emphasis on spices.

Once an abandoned rubber plantation along Penang’s northern shore, the award-

winning farm was set up utilizing predominantly natural and recycled building

materials salvaged from pre-war shop houses or sourced from local antique stores.

You’ll enjoy a diversity of nature as three separate trails lead you past stream

crossings, waterfalls and structures, all made from organic materials.

Immerse yourself in the rainforest experience as

you stroll through the garden and learn about the

medicinal benefits, folklore and the historical

spice trade of these magical plants. Informative

audio tours are available in several languages or

if you like, an experienced nature guide will be

happy to show you around and answer your

questions.

After the tour, we’ll have lunch at the Tree

Monkey Restaurant with beautiful views of nearby Teluk Bahang Bay. Spices, spa

products and toiletries are available in the gift shop along with t-shirts, souvenirs

and a collection of horticultural literature for novices and specialists alike.

Page 19: Opportunity Travel’s · Bangkok to Chiang Mai, Thailand – Half Day Tour of Chiang Mai Includes Lunch and Dinner We’ll depart from the Avanti Atrium Hotel in Bangkok – where

When we return to our hotel, you’ll have the afternoon free to go exploring or

simply relax.

Tonight we’ll celebrate our final dinner together as a group at Indigo, located in the

fabulous Blue Mansion, the most photographed building in George Town.

Cheong Fatt Tze, a rags-to-riches merchant-trader commissioned this magnificent

38-room, 220-window mansion in the 1880s for his seventh – and favorite – wife.

Dubbed the “Rockefeller of the East”, Cheong brought in materials and

craftsmanship from all around the world. Scottish cast iron columns and lacy

balustrades, English floor tiles and art nouveau stained glass, Gothic louvered

windows, Chinese woodcarvings and latticework, and Chien Nien porcelain works –

together combine in an eclectic yet breathtaking blend of Eastern and Western

influences.

Rescued from ruin in the 1990s, today the Blue Mansion operates as a boutique

hotel and the Indigo restaurant, inspired by Cheong Fatt Tze himself, carries on

tradition with an always-evolving culinary palette presented by Chef Beh Weng

Chia.

Bring your appetite along and prepare yourself for an exceptional dining

experience.

Page 20: Opportunity Travel’s · Bangkok to Chiang Mai, Thailand – Half Day Tour of Chiang Mai Includes Lunch and Dinner We’ll depart from the Avanti Atrium Hotel in Bangkok – where

Day 8 - Sunday

March 3

Penang, Malaysia – Departure Includes Breakfast

You’ll enjoy one final breakfast at the Shangri-La’s Rasa Sayang Resort and Spa.

Then, you’ll have a bit of free time on your own until our private coach takes you to

the airport for the flight home.

Pricing and What's Included

Opportunity Travel’s Southeast Asia Tour to Thailand & Malaysia

February 24 - March 3, 2019 Chiang Mai, Thailand - Penang, Malaysia

Post-Tour Following International Living’s 2019 Southeast Asia Fast Track Your Retirement Overseas Conference

Bangkok, Thailand – February 21-23

Price per person, based on double occupancy

Double occupancy price per person (land package): USD$2,600

Single price per person (land package): USD$3,200

To reserve your place for this tour, we require a USD$1,000 nonrefundable

deposit per person. Full payment will be due upon sign-up and will be charged on

January 17, 2019.

We would be happy to assist you with your international air arrangements to

Bangkok for the IL conference, and your post-tour return from Penang.

Page 21: Opportunity Travel’s · Bangkok to Chiang Mai, Thailand – Half Day Tour of Chiang Mai Includes Lunch and Dinner We’ll depart from the Avanti Atrium Hotel in Bangkok – where

Note: If you are attending the International Living Conference in Bangkok February 21-

23 and are traveling from North America, you need to depart on February 18th in order

to arrive by February 20th. We suggest you plan your arrival into Bangkok for February

19th or 20th, to allow time for rest and relaxation before the IL conference begins.

Click here to book International Living’s 2019 Southeast Asia Fast Track Your

Retirement Overseas Conference – Bangkok, Thailand – February 21-23

The price for Opportunity Travel’s Southeast Asia tour includes...

Seven nights’ accommodation as outlined in the itinerary

Meals as outlined in the itinerary (breakfast, lunch and dinner)

All current applicable taxes

Mineral water and meals on the coach

All ground transfers, city tours, excursions and sightseeing as outlined in the

itinerary to include any applicable entrance fees

English-speaking local guide for sightseeing tours

Tips and gratuities to bellhops at the hotels and waiters during the meals

Availability of an Opportunity Travel tour staff member who remains with the

group for the full program.

The price does not include...

International airfare

Travel Insurance (Though we would be happy to assist you with purchasing

travel insurance, please ask us when you register. We have a travel insurance

options for you at a very reasonable rate. This must be purchased at the

same time you book the trip.)

Meals other than those mentioned in the program

Personal expenses such as drinks, laundry, telephone calls, camera fees at

monuments or tips to local guides

Tourist cards/visas (if applicable to the traveler)

Airport departure taxes, if applicable (may be due in cash only)

Additional activities with entrance fees

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Beverages

Voluntary tips for drivers and guides (recommended USD$3 per day for

drivers; $USD5 per day for the guide)

We Can Help You with Your Travel Arrangements

We can also help you book your add-on flights from your home and assist you with

the necessary visas, if applicable.

Simply ask us about these services when you reserve your place on this trip. You

can reach us at 800 926 6575 (toll free) or +561 243 6276, or by sending an email to

[email protected].

Note on Single Price

If you are traveling alone and wish to share a room with another participant, we will

try to find a roommate for you, although we cannot guarantee a match. The single

pricing is due when you register. If a roommate is available, we will issue you a

credit for the difference.

RESERVATIONS: A nonrefundable deposit of USD$1,000 per person is due at

registration time. Full payment is due on January 17, 2019. We accept Visa,

Mastercard, AmEx or wire transfers. If you are paying by credit card, it will show up

on your bill as being paid to Opportunity Travel.

AIRLINE TICKETS: Opportunity Travel will assist with booking international airline

tickets from your home gateway. Just ask when making your tour reservation.

CANCELLATION POLICY: This Opportunity Travel Life Adventure to Southeast Asia

is completely nonrefundable. If you cancel due to medical reasons that are covered

by your purchased travel insurance policy, we will advise the insurance company

that your travel and conference fees are nonrefundable.

PROTECT YOUR INVESTMENT: For the protection of your investment, we

strongly recommend that you purchase individual trip, air, health, accident,

baggage and cancellation insurance.

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We feel it is a must these days. Feel free to contact our office at 800 926 6575 or

+561 266 6570 for more information. Please note that rates are based on the total

dollar amount of your trip and your age.

If you would like to get a quote and book your travel insurance online, we offer this

option:

Travel Insured Insurance: Click here for a quote.

CLICK HERE for our full TERMS AND CONDITIONS.

Register Today!

Terms and Conditions | Privacy Policy

Opportunity Travel

235 NE 4th Avenue, Suite 102, Delray Beach, FL 33483 USA

Toll Free: 800 926 6575 | Local: +561 243 6276 | Fax: 561 278 8765

Email: [email protected]; www.opportunity-travel.com