overnight trips in asia - semester at sea...icons, at the iga-ryu ninja museum. ninjitsu is not...

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OVERNIGHT TRIPS SHOULD BE BOOKED BY DECEMBER 12. Any overnight registrations received after DECEMBER 12 will be subject to availability and possible price increases.

OVERNIGHT TRIPS in ASIA It will be VERY COLD while we are in Japan and China, which means you need to pack

accordingly based on your elected trip. For example, if you opt to Hike the Great Wall,

visit Beijing, or Mount Fuji, you will need to pack hat, gloves, winter outerwear and

warm footwear.

To give you an authentic experience, accommodation in Japan is in the form of

traditional inns, called ryokan. For those taking an overnight trip, we ask that you be culturally sensitive and acquaint

yourself with the expected behaviors at the ryokan in advance, like removing your shoes upon entrance. See detailed

description of what to expect on the website under Field Programs.

We will have the unique experience of being in China just prior to the celebration of the

Lunar New Year, which is known as Tet. Be prepared for huge volumes of Chinese nationals

traveling around the country to be with family or take vacation. In Viet Nam, Tet is the

single-most celebrated time of year. The festive atmosphere is sure to be exciting, however,

coordinating independent travel may be a challenge because priority on flights and rail

travel is given to Vietnamese nationals.

For those interested in travel to Cambodia, please note that you will only have the opportunity to do so on a Field

Program trip due to strict immigration regulations. In other words, independent travel to Cambodia (from Viet Nam) is

not possible otherwise.

In Viet Nam, both Ho Chi Minh City and Saigon refer to the same city. Also note that Burma and Myanmar are used

interchangeably – as are Yangon and Rangoon for Burma’s capitol city.

Given that tourism in Burma is relatively unchartered, please be aware that public

transportation options are extremely limited, cell phone service is very spotty and

English is not widely spoken. Please especially bear in mind cultural sensitivities

during in-country travel since this is a very conservative country.

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JAPAN

IMPORTANT: If you registered in one of the following courses, you have a field lab on this day.

Do not make any other travel plans as this is a designated class day in port for your course.

Field Labs Yokohama, JAPAN Sunday, 27 January

YOKL1 MDST 3559 Professor Ferrara Diverse Cultures in Mass Communication

YOKL2 ANTH 2320 Professor Frolander-Ulf Slater Anthropology of Religion

YOKL3 EAST 3559 Professor Israel & Professor Xie Sino-American Relations

YOKL4 RELB 1559-102 Professor Laycock Religions of Asia

YOKL5 ARTH 2862 Professor Maki Arts of the Buddhist World

YOKL6 ENGL 3559 Professor D. Morris Earth Fictions

YOKL7 BIOL 1559-103 Professor F. von Hippel Marine Biology (Section 1)

YOKL8 RELB 3559-101 Professor Waldron Myth of the Self

Day 1: Sunday, January 27

YOK 201-101 HAKONE 2 days/1 night

Hakone is a small town at the base of

stratovolcano Mt. Fuji, and home to a

Shinto shrine on the shores of Lake

Ashi. Here you’ll learn more of Japanese

religious and cultural traditions. If

weather permits, a pleasure boat cruise

on Lake Ashi will provide a fine view of

Mt. Fuji, Japan’s most famous peak.

The observation deck is inside the boat,

so you can enjoy the scenery without

feeling cold. Next you’ll marvel at the

winter playground within The Mori Park at Saiko Wild Bird Sanctuary. Ice

sculptures of “silver frost” on the trees can reach 10m and are breathtaking in

the winter setting.

Shake off the cold at the Owakudani Boiling Valley, a popular hot spring resort

near Tokyo with spectacular views. Throughout the tour, your unique

accommodations at a Japanese ryokan will allow you to experience a popular

Japanese tradition. More than just an inn, ryokan are an opportunity to

experience authentic Japanese lifestyle and hospitality, incorporating elements

such as tatami floors, futon beds, Japanese style baths and local cuisine, making them popular with both Japanese and

tourists alike. Relax and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere of scenic Hakone.

Note: It will be cold. Please bring warm footwear and outerwear.

ITINERARY

Day 1: (D)

Depart from Yokohama Int’l Ferry Terminal

Visit Lake Saiko Juhyo (Silver Frost) Festival with Mt. Fuji scenery

Check-in and Japanese-style buffet at ryokan

Day 2: (B)

Breakfast at ryokan

Visit Owakudani Boiling Valley; lunch on your own

Hakone Shrine

Return to ship

STANDARD PRICE Early Booking

Adult $ 720 $ 660

Child $ 360 $ 330

TIME

Date Time

Depart January 27 1300

Return January 28 1800

HIGHLIGHTS

Silver Frost Festival at Lake Saiko Juhyo

Stay at traditional Japanese ryokan

Owakudani Boiling Valley

Hakone Shrine

Pleasure boat tour on Lake Ashi (if

weather permits)

3


YOK 202-101 YOKOHAMA & KOBE OVERLAND TOUR 4 days/3 nights

This tour incorporates visits to several unique

areas of Japan: Hakone, Ise/Mie Prefecture, and

Kyoto, Japan’s former capital city. If weather

permits, a pleasure boat cruise on Lake Ashi in

Hakone will provide a fine view of Mt. Fuji,

Japan’s most famous peak. The observation

deck is inside the boat, so you can enjoy the

scenery without feeling cold. Next you’ll marvel

at the winter playground within The Mori Park at

Saiko Wild Bird Sanctuary. Ice sculptures of “silver frost” on the trees can reach

10m and are breathtaking in the winter setting.

Shake off the cold at the Owakudani Boiling

Valley, a hot spring resort near Tokyo with

spectacular views and a history of volcanic

activity. Throughout the tour, your unique

accommodations at a Japanese ryokan will

allow you to experience a popular Japanese

tradition. More than just an inn, ryokan provide

authentic Japanese lifestyle and hospitality,

incorporating elements such as tatami floors,

futon beds, Japanese style baths and local cuisine, making them popular with

both natives and tourists alike.

Continue to the Ise Grand Shrine, a complex of shrines that house the Sacred Mirror, a national treasure and one of Shinto’s

holiest and most important sites. The Kinkakuji Temple whose Golden Pavilion is actually a pagoda, houses sacred relics of

the Buddha, while the Ryoanji Temple, built in 1450, is home to a beautifully abstract zen rock garden. Enjoy your visit to these

temples while reflecting on Japanese religious history and practices.

Debunking ideas that castles are a uniquely European convention, the Nijo Castle is your next

destination. A flatland castle in Kyoto that was built originally as a

residence for the shogunate (military leaders) of the day, it is a

majestic network of palaces and gardens. Finally, learn the history

behind the ninja warrior, one of Japan’s most recognized cultural

icons, at the Iga-ryu Ninja Museum. Ninjitsu is not considered a

martial art, but an original art of warfare, and was developed mainly in

the Iga area. Learn more about the history and culture of Japan on

this extraordinary three-part adventure.

Note: It will be cold. Please bring warm footwear and outerwear.

ITINERARY

Day 1:

Depart from Yokohama Int’l Ferry Terminal

Visit Lake Saiko Juhyo (Silver Frost) Festival with Mt. Fuji scenery

Hotel check-in and dinner on your own

Day 2: (B,D)

Visit Owakudani Boiling Valley

Pleasure boat tour on Lake Ashi; lunch on your own

Transfer to Toba (5 hours)

Check-in and Japanese dinner at ryokan

Day 3: (B)

Breakfast at ryokan before departure

Visit Ise Shrine

1.5-hour drive to Iga-ryu Ninja Museum

Lunch on your own

2-hour drive to Kyoto

Hotel check-in and dinner on your own

Day 4: (B)

Visit Kinkakuji Temple (Golden Pavilion) and Ryoanji Temple with rocks garden

Lunch on your own

Visit Nijo Castle before returning to the ship


Adult $ 1,257 $ 1,202

Child $ 628.50 $ 601

TIME

Date Time



HIGHLIGHTS

Lake Saiko Juhyo (Silver Frost) Festival

on the foot of Mt. Fuji

Owakudani Boiling Valley

Lake Ashi by pleasure boat (if weather

permits)

Stay at traditional Japanese ryokan

Ise Shrine & Kinkakuji/Ryoanji Temples

Ninja Museum & famous sites in Kyoto

4




Field Labs Kobe, JAPAN Thursday, 31 January

KOBL1 SEMS 2500-109 Professor Lewis Mass Communication and Human Behavior

KOBL2 ARTS 1010 Professor McLeod Drawing at Sea II

KOBL3 DRAM 2020 Professor Rosenfield Acting 1

KOBL4 PSYC 2600-501 Professor W. Von Hippel Intro to Social Psychology (Section 1)

Day 4: Wednesday, January 30

KOB 201-102 HIROSHIMA & MIYAJIMA 2 days/1 night

Hiroshima City is widely known to the

world as the first city ever attacked by

an atomic bomb during WWII. There you

will find the Hiroshima Atomic Bomb

Dome (Genbaku Dome), which

symbolizes the importance of world

peace. Adjacent to the Genbaku Dome,

a World Cultural Heritage Site, is the

Peace Memorial Park, a memorial to

the more than 140,000 direct and

indirect victims of the nuclear attack.

Miyajima, literally Shrine Island, a

popular name for Itsukushima Shrine,

has long been revered as a sacred

island because of Itsukushima Shrine

founded there in 593 A.D., which is

dedicated to the maritime guardian

goddesses. The island, about 31 km in

circumference, is easily accessible by

ferryboat in 10 min. from Miyajimaguchi Station.

Enjoy an overnight stay at a ryokan in Miyajima. Ryokan are Japanese style inns

found throughout the country, especially in hot spring resorts. More than just a

place to sleep, ryokan are an opportunity to experience the traditional Japanese lifestyle and hospitality, incorporating

elements such as tatami floors, futon beds, Japanese style baths and local cuisine.

ITINERARY

Day 1: (D)

Transfer to Shin-Kobe Station

Leave Shin-Kobe for Hiroshima by bullet train

Half-day sightseeing tour in Hiroshima

Visit Peace Memorial Museum and Atomic Bomb Dome

Transfer to Miyajima

Check-in and dinner at ryokan

Day 2: (B)

Breakfast at ryokan

Visit Itsuklushima Shrine

Transfer to Hiroshima Station – lunch on your own

Leave Hiroshima for Shin-Kobe by bullet train

Arrive at Shin-Kobe and transfer to port


Adult $ 735 $ 691

Child $ 367.50 $ 345.50

TIME

Date Time



HIGHLIGHTS

Peace Memorial Park & Museum

Atomic Bomb Dome

Itsukushima Shrine with Torii Gate

Experience of roundtrip travel on Super

Express Shinkansen (Bullet train)

5


CHINA



Field Labs Shanghai, CHINA Sunday, 3 February

SHAL1 ENSP 3559 Professor Fraiman World Literature and Film

SHAL2 ENGR 2500 Professor Johnson Energy for the World

SHAL3 ARTH 1505 Professor Maki Engaging Chinese Art

SHAL4 ARTS 1710 Professor McLeod Painting at Sea: Collage

SHAL5 HIST 3559-102 Professor Walker Comparative World Diplomacy

SHAL6 BIOL 1559-102 Professor Garrett Nutrition Around the World (Field Lab China Day 1)

Day 1: Sunday, February 3 SHA 501-101 SAS EXCLUSIVE: YUNNAN WITH JOHN ISRAEL 5 days/4 nights

This exclusive trip begins on board the ship with

slide show instruction from Professor John Israel,

an expert on the Yunnan Province and one of the

first American exchange professors to live and

study there. John will accompany this tour and offer

insight into this remarkable area.

The Linden Centre is a nationally protected heritage

site and hotel located in southwest China’s balmy

Yunnan Province. Stone courtyards and cobbled

streets speak to the rich historical and cultural

traditions of the area, home to more than 25

minority nationalities. Start by exploring the small

town of Dali’s wet market, the Er’kuai noodle

factory, and the home of a Dali Cheese maker! A

local chef will instruct on how to prepare a

traditional dish. Next, on a leisurely boat ride on

Er'hai Lake, watch local Bai minority fishermen use trained cormorants for fishing. Then, go by

horsecart to local temples where you can observe a synthesis of local, Buddhist and Daoist

religion still used daily by Xizhou residents.

You may want to

split off from the

group for individual exploration (bikes available),

or visit Zhoucheng to learn a tie-dyeing technique

used in China for more than 1000 years, or hike

from a Hui Minority Mosque through local tombs and to two local religious and Buddhist temples.

Reconvene with the group in the evening for a concert of traditional Chinese music - originally performed only for Kings during

the Ancient Nanzhou Empire - by a group of enthusiasts who practice their craft every evening.

Don’t miss this opportunity to tour a unique area of China, escorted by one of its expert professors.


Adult On request $ 1, 831.00

Child On request $ 915.50

TIME

Date Time

Depart February 3 AM

Return February 7 PM

HIGHLIGHTS

Linden Center accommodations

Dali wet market and noodle factory cooking lesson

Boat ride on Er’hai to see trained cormorant fishing

Dongjing Music and Dancing

Bicycle tour

Chinese tie-dye experience

Xizhou temple visits

6


SHA 501-101 SAS EXCLUSIVE: YUNNAN WITH JOHN ISRAEL 5 days/4 nights

ITINERARY

Day 1: (L,D)

Transfer to Shanghai airport for flight to Kunming-Dali

Upon arrival, greet guide and drive to Dali (Xizhou)

En route, visit town of Yunnanyi

Tour Flying Tigers Museum

Linden Centre check-in and tour

Day 2: (B,L,D)

Xizhou Morning Market Tour (w/ chef)

Cooking class

Boat ride/cormorant fishing on Er’hai Lake

Xizhou Temple Visit

Day 3: (B,L,D)

Individual activity options

Dali Old Town

Day 4: (B,L,D)

Individual activity options

Leisure time after lunch

Dongjing Music and Dance Concert

Day 5: (B)

Breakfast at Linden Centre

Transfer to Dali airport for flight to Kunming; connection flight to Hong Kong

SHA 601-101 XIAN/BEIJING 6 days/5 nights

( Xian, the eternal city, and Beijing, the capital and second-largest city, are home

to some of China’s most breath-taking scenery and world-famous historical

landmarks. In this six-day tour, you’ll enjoy the sights, sounds, and people that

give China its rich cultural heritage and attract thousands of visitors every year.

One of the world’s four ancient civilization capitals, Xian is

home to artistic wonders such as the Terra Cotta Warriors

Museum, and the magnificent Xian City Wall. You’ll also

get to meet local youth at the Xian Orphanage that they

call home. Stops at the Great Mosque and the Old Bazaar

are famous for being the best-known Islamic Mosque in

Xian City, and for melding the traditional architectural

styles of Islam and Han.

Then, on to Beijing where a pedicab (3-wheeled bicycle)

ride through Hutong will take you to tea and

Chinese dumplings, or Jiaozi, with a local

family. A lucky guest may find a coin in one

dumpling that will bring good fortune to them

for the New Year!

Downtown, Tiananmen Square - the largest public square in the world – and the Forbidden

City, or Imperial Palace, lead to a fascinating display of

Chinese history in one of the best-preserved sites of

Classical Chinese architecture.

Drop by the Guang’ai Migrant School in the Shunyi district where students enjoy learning

and speaking with visitors. Later, stand on the Great Wall and watch it snake its way over

the mountaintops, wide enough for a brace of five horses to gallop between posts

delivering supplies.

Don’t miss this opportunity to celebrate Chinese history and culture among its people.

NOTE: It will be COLD in Beijing. Please be prepared with warm clothing and footwear.


Adult On request $ 1,857.00


TIME

Date Time



HIGHLIGHTS

Terra Cotta Warriors Museum

Xian Orphanage

Tang Dynasty Dinner Show

Xian City Wall

Great Mosque & Old Bazaar

Tiananmen Square & Forbidden City

Hutong Tour and Rickshaw Ride

Beijing 2008 Olympic Village

Beijing Int’l Kongfu School

Mutianyu Great Wall – toboggan down!

Chinese Acrobatics show

7


SHA 601-101 XIAN/BEIJING 6 days/5 nights

( ITINERARY

Day 1: (D)

Fly from Pudong to Xian

Dim sum dinner at De Fa Chang restaurant

Day 2: (B,L,D)

Excursion to Terra Cotta Warriors Museum

Volunteer at Xian Orphanage Chinese calligraphy lesson at Tang Dynasty Art Museum

Tang Dynasty Dinner Show

Day 3: (B,L)

Visit Xian City Wall

Visit Great Mosque and Old Bazaar

Transfer to airport for flight to Beijing

Rest of day and dinner at your leisure

Day 4: (B,L,D)

Visit to Tiananmen Square and Forbidden City

Chinese dumplings (Jiaozi) lunch with local family

Hutong Tour with Trishaw Ride

PM tour to Beijing 2008 Olympic Village and Silk Factory

Beijing Duck for dinner

Day 5: (B,L,D)

Visit to Beijing International Kongfu School

Excursion to Mutianyu Great Wall – cable car up, toboggan down! (a veteran favorite)

Dinner followed by Chinese Acrobatics show

Day 6: (B)

Hotel breakfast at your leisure

Transfer to airport for flight to Hong Kong

Day 2: Monday, February 4

SHA 401-201 BEIJING 4 days/3 nights

Beijing, the capital of China and its second-largest city, boasts many of China’s

incredible architectural landmarks.

A pedicab (3-wheeled bicycle) ride through the Hutong area’s narrow streets will

take you to tea and Chinese dumplings, or Jiaozi, with a local family. A lucky

guest may find a coin in one dumpling that will

bring good fortune to them for the New Year!

At Tiananmen Square - the largest public

square in the world - Mao Zedong proclaimed

the founding of the People's Republic of China

in 1949. Behind it the gates of the Forbidden

City, or Imperial Palace, lead to a fascinating

display of Chinese history in one of the best-

preserved sites of Classical Chinese

architecture.

Chinese youth at the Guang’ai Migrant School in the Shunyi

district work toward securing their bright futures despite an

unfavourable social status. Enjoy learning and visiting with

the children.

Spend the afternoon at the Great Wall and watch it snake its way over the mountaintops, and

end with an exhilarating toboggan ride down – a favourite with previous SAS students. The day

concludes with a show of Chinese Acrobatics.

In the morning observe how the blue tiles of the Temple of Heaven echo the sky. The main buildings and altars are built in


Adult On request $ 1,279


TIME

Date Time

Depart February 4 1700

Return February 7 1100

HIGHLIGHTS

Pedicab Rickshaw Ride

Dumpling dinner with local family


Visit students at Migrant School

Kung Fu School visit

Great Wall of China w/ toboggan ride

Temple of Heaven

8


SHA 401-201 BEIJING 4 days/3 nights

tiers of three to create nine dimensions of surface, a mystical number in Chinese tradition that

also symbolizes heaven.

Don’t miss this opportunity to celebrate Chinese history and culture among its people.

NOTE: It will be COLD in Beijing. Please be prepared with warm clothing and footwear.

ITINERARY

Day 1: (D)

Fly from Shanghai to Beijing

Hutong tour with Pedicab Rickshaw

Enjoy dumpling (Jiaozi) dinner with local family

1-hour return trip to Beijing hotel

Day 2: (B,L,D)

Hotel breakfast followed by visit to Tian’men Square and Forbidden City

Lunch at local restaurant

Visit Guan’ai Migrant School in Shunyi

Overnight in Beijing

Day 3: (B,L,D)

Visit Beijing International Kongfu School


Visit Mutianyu Great Wall with cable car up, toboggan down – a favorite with

students!

Dinner at local restaurant followed by Acrobatic show

Overnight in Beijing

Day 4: (B)

Visit Temple of Heaven


SHA 402-201 XIAN 4 days/3 nights

Xian, the eternal city, enjoys equal fame

with Athens, Cairo, and Rome as one of

the four major ancient civilization capitals.

Its historic art and architecture have

gained fame worldwide and tell of its rich

history.

Uncovered in 1974, the Terra Cotta

Warriors are Xian’s most important

attraction. The estimated 8,000 terra cotta

soldiers stand in typical battle formation with each head modelled with unique

facial expressions!

Next, enjoy a warm welcome from Chinese youth at the Xian Orphanage. Since

1994, it has helped re-home almost 300 orphans to both Chinese and foreign

families. Many attend local schools and later work at the orphanage and look

after younger children. Participate in one of their ancient artistic traditions, Chinese

calligraphy, by using characters to create aesthetically pleasing forms at the Tang

Dynasty Art Museum.

The Tang Dynasty Dinner Show, a performance of Chang'an music and dance

originating over a thousand years ago will charm you before your visit to the Xian City

Wall, the Great Mosque and the Old Bazaar. Xian has the most complete city wall to

have survived in China, while the Great Mosque is the best-known Islamic Mosque in

Xian City and melds the traditional architectural styles of Islam and Han.




TIME

Date Time



HIGHLIGHTS

Terra Cotta Warriors Museum

Xian City Wall

Xian Orphanage visit

Chinese calligraphy lesson

Tang Dynasty show

Great Mosque & Old Bazaar

9


SHA 402-201 XIAN 4 days/3 nights

Don’t miss this opportunity to celebrate Xian’s unique history and traditions among its people.

ITINERARY

Day 1: (D)

Fly to Xian and transfer to hotel

Dim sum dinner at De Fa Chang restaurant

Overnight in Xian

Day 2: (B,L,D)

Hotel breakfast followed by excursion to Terra Cotta Warriors Museum


Tour to Xian City Wall

Tang Dynasty dinner show

Overnight in Xian

Day 3: (B,L,D)

Hotel breakfast followed by visit to Xian Orphanage


Learn Chinese calligraphy at Tang Dynasty Art Museum

Visit Great Mosque and Old Bazaar

Rest of day and dinner are free at your leisure

Day 4: (B)

Hotel breakfast


SHA 403-201 GUILIN 4 days/3 nights

Guilin is considered the pearl of China's

thriving tourist industry on account of its

natural beauty and historic treasures. Within

the area one may find green mountains,

crystal clear waters and unique caves, as well

as attractions such as Elephant Trunk Hill,

Reed Flute Cave, and Seven-Star Park.

Your first stop is the Longji Mountain Village,

where ribbon-like rice terraces are built right

into the hillsides. This ingenious construction

makes best use of the scarce arable land and

water resources in the mountainous area. In

the afternoon, visit a village school in Longsheng.

Enjoy a downstream cruise on the Lijiang River and disembark at a small village,

where you will meet a local family. Further upriver at Yangshuo, breathe in respite

from city life in the beautiful surroundings, before shopping at the local “Biggest Market

of the World”.

West Street, the oldest street in Yangshuo, has

become a window of eastern and western

culture and is the biggest 'foreign language

center' in China. Each year, approximately

100,000 foreigners come here for study or

vacations.

You may choose to enjoy an optional evening

folk dance show, “Impression Liu Sanjie” at the Shanshui Theatre. With Lijiang River and its 12 peaks as a backdrop, it is the

largest natural theatre in the world.

On your last full day, visit Yangshuo’s towering Big Banyan Tree. It has survived wind and rain over centuries since it was

planted during the Sui Dynasty (581-618). Discover the scenic wonders of Yangshuo on a group bicycle tour.


Adult On request $ 939


TIME

Date Time



HIGHLIGHTS

Rice terraces at Longji Mountain Village

Boat tour on Lijiang River

Bicycle tour of Yangshuo

Visit village school in Longsheng

Meet local villagers and visit “Biggest Market of the World”

Yangshuo’s Big Banyan Tree

10


SHA 403-201 GUILIN 4 days/3 nights

ITINERARY

Day 1: (D)

Fly from Shanghai to Guilin, followed by dinner at local restaurant

Rest of evening at your leisure

Day 2: (B,L,D)

Hotel breakfast followed by 2-hour road trip to Longji Mountain Village


Visit village school at Longsheng

Return trip to Guilin in late afternoon

Dinner at local restaurant; overnight stay at hotel

Day 3: (B,L,D)

Hotel breakfast followed by downstream cruise on Lijiang River with stop at small village

Buffet lunch aboard boat

Visit town of Yangshuo, popular tourist stop and “Biggest Market of the World”

Evening walk along West Street in Yangshuo

Dinner at local restaurant

Optional program ($ not included): outdoor folk dancing show “Impression Liu Sanjie”

Overnight in Yangshuo

Day 4: (B,L)

Hotel breakfast followed by bicycle tour of Yangshuo


PM transfer to airport for flight to Hong Kong

SHA 404-201 HIKING ON THE GREAT WALL 4 days/3 nights

The Chinese name for the Great Wall is Wan

Li Chang Cheng, or "the Long Wall of Ten

Thousand Li." The first sections were built

as early as the fifth century B.C. but it was

not until B.C. 221 that the various sections

of the Wall were linked up. It is said that

more than 300,000 men worked for ten

years to complete it. You will have the once-

in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience the

history and beauty of this towering world

monument.

Hike from the Gubeikou to Jinshanling to

the Simatai Section, passing 14 beacon

towers, 143 watchtowers, 16 strategic

pass, three citadels and many other

military constructions. Many of them are

famous cultural relics, such as the Big

Flower Beacon Tower of the Northern Qi

Dynasty, Fairy Tower, General Tower, and

the dominant WangjingTower.

Finally, explore the majestic historical landmarks of downtown Beijing. Tiananmen Square and The Forbidden City, also known

as the Imperial Palace, one of the best-preserved sites of Classical Chinese architecture, will delight and inspire on the final

day of your tour.

NOTE: THIS IS A STRENUOUS HIKE! THIS TOUR IS NOT RECOMMENDED FOR THOSE WITH LIMITED MOBILITY/ENDURANCE.

Please bring a sturdy pair of hiking shoes. IT WILL BE VERY COLD WITH THE POSSIBILITY OF SNOW. DRESS IN LAYERS WITH

WARM FOOTWEAR. (Warming stations will be arranged during the hike.)




TIME

Date Time



HIGHLIGHTS

Hiking Great Wall (2 days)


11


SHA 404-201 HIKING ON THE GREAT WALL 4 days/3 nights

ITINERARY

Day 1: (D)

Fly from Shanghai to Beijing

2.5-hour bus trip to Miyun County

Dinner at local Chinese restaurant

Overnight at hotel

Day 2: (B,L,D)

Hotel breakfast followed by 4-5 hour hike from Gubeikou to Jinshanling Section

Picnic lunch on Great Wall

Dinner at local Chinese restaurant

Overnight at hotel

Day 3: (B,L,D)

Hotel breakfast followed by 4-hour hike from Jinshanling toward Simatai Section

Late PM drive to downtown Beijing

Dinner at Roast Duck Restaurant

Overnight in 4* hotel

Day 4: (B,L)

Hotel breakfast followed by visit to Tiananmen Square & Forbidden City


PM transfer to Beijing Airport for flight to Hong Kong

VIET NAM



Field Labs

Ho Chi Minh City,

VIET NAM Tuesday, 12 February

Sunday,

17 February

HCML1 SEMS 3500-502 Professor Allred

Intro to International Business (Section

2)

HCML2 ARTH 1051 Professor Maki History of Art I

HCML3 SEMS 2500-106 Professor G. Oliphant Consumer Behavior

HCML4 SEMS 3500-504 Professor R. Oliphant International Marketing (Section 2)

HCML6 SEMS 3500-111 Professor Ullerich Development Economics

HCML7 PSYC 3500-102 Professor W. Von Hippel

Psychological Approaches to Complex

Problems

HCML8 RELB 3559-102 Professor Waldron Buddhism in the Modern World

HCML9 ENGL 3559 Professor D. Morris

Illness

Narratives

12


Day 1: Wednesday, February 13

HCM-304-201 COASTAL WONDERS OF NHA TRANG 3 days/2 nights

( The town of Nha Trang extends the length of a

white sandy beach and affords you the

opportunity to explore some of Viet Nam’s

beautiful coastline and off-shore islands. Many

remnants of the ancient Cham civilization of Viet

Nam are also found in this area. Visit the Long

Son Pagoda with its entrance gate and roofs

decorated with mosaic dragons made of glass

and ceramic tile. Behind the pagoda, a huge

white Buddha sits on a lotus blossom atop a

steep hill. The figure is 14 meters high and can

be seen from all over Nha Trang. Climbing the

152 stone steps to the Buddha statue is well worth the effort, as it provides an

excellent view of Nha Trang. You’ll also visit the famous Cham Towers at Po

Nagar, built between the 6th and 12th centuries. The towers provide an excellent

view of the mouth of the river, bridges and coracles (bamboo baskets) used to

ferry fishermen out to their boats. A scenic boat trip with stops for swimming and

lunch at a local village on the Con Se Tre islands will allow you to experience the

beauty of Nha Trang on the water as well.

Note: Please bring a swimsuit for water activities.

“One of the best 2 cities during Tet.” – Trip Advisor

ITINERARY

Day 1: (L,D)

1-hour flight to Nha Trang via Saigon

Light breakfast upon arrival

Full-day tour of Cham Towers, Long Son Pagoda, Hon Chong Rocks, the Oceanographic Institute, and more

Lunch at Bao Dai’s palace

Dinner and cultural show

Day 2: (B,L,D)

Full-day boat trip and swimming at uninhabited islands

Seafood lunch at Con Se Tre islands


Day 3: (B)

Hotel breakfast

Full day at your leisure

Return flight that evening



Child On request $ 315

TIME

Date Time



HIGHLIGHTS

One of the most popular beaches in

Vietnam

Boat trip and swim at uninhabited

islands

Long Son Pagoda

Cham Towers

Cultural Show

13


HCM-305-201 HOMESTAY IN MAI CHAU VILLAGE 3 days/2 nights

Escape to a fascinating village in the

heartland of the North’s ethnic

minority region. The mountainous

region west of Ha Noi with its

expanses of rice fields, magnificent

mountain vistas, and scenic valleys is

home to the Mai Chau village, where

weaving and rice farming are the

mainstays of life and the locals

provide a warm welcome. You will

have the unique opportunity to spend the evening in the home of a member of

the Black Thai hill tribe.

After experiencing rural life in Viet Nam, your visit to Ha Noi provides an

interesting contrast. History has been brutal to Viet Nam, and much of our

knowledge of this country comes from images of the Viet Nam War. A visit to Ha

Noi today is more likely to evoke an “old-world” image of ambience and tranquility

rather than an image of an “enemy city.” Ha Noi is arguably the most beautiful

capital in Southeast Asia, a city of dignified, if somewhat dilapidated, charm where

French-colonial architecture dominates narrow, tree-shaded streets. The absence of

modern buildings and the predominance of bicycle traffic are quite different from Ho

Chi Minh City.

Your orientation to Ha Noi includes visits to Ho Chi Minh’s house, the Army Museum,

the Temple of Literature, the charming Old Quarter and if time permits, the Tran

Quoc Pagoda.

Due to Tet (Lunar New Year, most important holiday in Vietnam) the group can experience

the special atmosphere at each house during Tet and enjoy traditional games at the Temple

of Literature and other pagodas.

Note: Sturdy walking shoes required. Bring a flashlight for walks in the village at night.

ITINERARY

Day 1: (L,D)(Longhouse)

Fly to Hanoi via Saigon

City tour including visit to Ho Chi Minh complex, 1 Pillar Pagoda and Army Museum

Drive to Mai Chau and local commune

Orientation walk through nearby villages

Dinner at long house with cultural performance (according to village agreement)

Day 2: (B,L,D)(Hotel)

Visit local market, explore villages, interact with locals

5-hour return drive to Hanoi

Dinner and water puppets show

Day 3: (B)

Hanoi city tour including the Temple of Literature to see traditional games in Tet, as well as visits to Tran Quoc

Pagoda, Quan Thanh Temple and the Old Quarter

Hotel checkout and free time

Return flight from Hanoi (light meal aboard aircraft)




TIME

Date Time



HIGHLIGHTS

Rural life in Mai Chau

Hanoi’s highlights in Tet with traditional games at the Temple of Literature

Longhouse stay

Local interaction

Water puppet show in Ha Noi

Ho Chi Minh’s house

14


HCM-306-201 HA NOI & HA LONG BAY 3 days/2 nights

In addition to visiting Ha Noi, which

arguably has become one of the most

interesting cities in Southeast Asia,

this trip explores one of the natural

wonders of the world – the

magnificent Ha Long Bay. The bay’s

tranquil beauty encompasses 1,500-

square miles dotted with more than

1,000 limestone islands and islets.

Bizarre rock sculptures jut

dramatically from the sea, and numerous grottoes create a picturesque setting.

The sails of the junks and sampans gliding on the bay add to the timeless beauty

of the scene. A four-hour boat trip on the bay includes stops at some of the

grottoes. The most spectacular is Dau Go Cave with its stalactites and

stalagmites resembling beasts, birds and human forms. Folk legends associated

with various grottoes and some of Ha Long Bay’s historic battles are part of this learning experience.

The scenic drive from Ha Noi to Ha Long provides insight into the agricultural lifestyle of the north. See emerald-green rice

paddies, water buffalo, farms and villages before arriving in Ha Noi for dinner and a water puppet performance.

Due to Tet (Lunar New Year, and most important holiday in Vietnam) the local life in the Old Quarter will not bustle as usual,

but the group can experience the atmosphere at each house in Tet and enjoy traditional games at the Temple of Literature.

ITINERARY

Day 1: (L,D)

Fly to Ha Noi via Saigon

Drive to and tour Ho Chi Minh complex, which includes One Pillar

Pagoda, Ba Dinh Square, and Army

Museum

3-hour scenic drive to Ha Long Bay through rice paddies, water buffalo

herds, and villages

Hotel check-in at Ha Long and Dinner at local restaurant

Day 2: (B,L,D)

Short trip to Ha Long pier for 4-hour junk boat ride in Ha Long

Bay including seafood lunch on

board

Return drive to Ha Noi

Leisure time before dinner at local restaurant

Water puppet show

Day 3: (B)

Hotel breakfast

Ha Noi city tour including Temple of Literature, Quan Thanh Temple,

Tran Quoc Pagoda, and the Old

Quarter

Free time for lunch on your own

Return flight to Saigon




TIME

Date Time



HIGHLIGHTS

Ha Long Bay & Caves – one of the World’s 7 New Wonders

Hanoi’s highlights in Tet with traditional games at the Temple of Literature

Junk boat ride

Water puppet show in Ha Noi

15


HCM-307-201 MEKONG DELTA EXPLORER (HOMESTAY) 3 days/2 nights

Until the 16th century, the Mekong Delta was an area of marshlands and forest.

Gradually, marshlands were reclaimed and a canal network was built for the

cultivation of rice, fish, soybeans, maize, peanuts, tobacco and melons. The Cai

Be area is famous for its coconut palms and fruit orchards (mangoes, longans,

bananas and citrus fruits). The drive out of Ho Chi Minh City (about 2.5 hours)

takes you through miles of flat rice fields, along a road that is always busy with

bicycles and people heading to or from the market. Highlights of this trip are a

boat ride on the Mekong River to observe the active river life, and active

engagement with local people on a bicycle tour through the village. The Mekong

Delta was annexed from the Khmers in the late 18th century and continues to be

influenced by Cambodia. Enjoy dinner and an overnight stay at a local house with

evening activities offered by the owner.

The second day your group will take a

boat trip to visit the brick kilns where

local people create beautiful clay pottery. As the boat moves through the floating

village you will learn more about catfish farms in Viet Nam, before the cruise ends

at Vinh Long city. Here you can visit Vinh Long market in town, the best place for

taking pictures of fish, shrimp, prawns, crabs, snakes, rice-field rats, and local

produce. An overland trip from Vinh Long takes you to Can Tho, the most modern

and commercial town in the Delta. In the afternoon, visit a stork garden and a

typical ancient house in the Binh Thuy area.

ITINERARY

Day 1: (L,D)

2.5-hour trip to Cai Be township

Boat journey to nearby islands and through a maze of

tributaries

Riverside walk & bike through local communities

Enjoy stay at local house overlooking the waterway

Day 2: (B,L,D)

Breakfast at house followed by 2.5-hour trip to Can Tho

Drive to visit Bang Lang Stork garden and Binh Thuy ancient

house

Return to Can Tho followed by dinner at local restaurant

Day 3: (B,L)

Depart from Ninh Kieu boat station for canal

Visit local house on Cai Son canal to experience traditional Tet holiday with the

Southerners

Visit to Khmer Pagoda if time permits

Lunch at Sao Hom restaurant

5-hour return trip to Nha Rong Port


Adult $ 210 $ 201

Child $ 105 $ 101

TIME

Date Time



HIGHLIGHTS

Local life in Mekong Delta during Tet

Riverboat travels through tributaries

Homestay with local people and chance to learn more of the traditional lifestyle

Explore by bike

Visit Bang Lang Stork Garden

16


HCM-301-201 ANGKOR WAT AND PHNOM PENH 3 days/ 2 nights

( Angkor is an incomparable temple

complex built between seven and 11

centuries ago at the height of the Khmer

civilization. Angkor’s 100 or so temples

constitute the sacred skeleton of

spectacular administrative and religious

center covering 200-square kilometers.

The ruins represent successive capitals

constructed by a dozen Khmer kings,

which included massive stone temples,

majestic causeways and imposing towers. You will visit the most famous temple

complex, Angkor Wat. With its soaring towers and extraordinary bas-reliefs, many

consider Angkor Wat to be one of the most inspired and spectacular monuments

ever conceived by the human mind. The largest religious building in the world, it

was built by Suryavarman II, who reigned from 1112 to 1152, to honor Vishnu

and for later use as his funerary temple.

Phnom Penh, capital of Cambodia, was once considered the loveliest of the French-built cities of Indochina. Its charm is still

evident despite the violence and destruction during and immediately following the Viet Nam War. When the Viet Nam War

spread to Cambodia, the city’s population swelled with refugees, reaching about two million in early 1975. The Khmer Rouge

took over the city in April 1975 and immediately forced the entire population into the countryside as part of a radical social

program.

On your city orientation of Phnom Penh, you will visit the National Museum and view the Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda. You

will also visit the Tuol Sleng Museum, a school that was converted into a prison camp and torture chamber by the Khmer

Rouge. Thousands of Cambodians were incarcerated here before they were taken to Choeng Ek to be killed. Photographs of

the victims, taken before or after torture, line the walls of the former schoolrooms. The only crime committed by most of these

victims was being educated. A map of Cambodia, constructed of human skulls, dominates one room and symbolizes the

death and destruction carried out by the Pol Pot Regime that affected the entire country. At the Killing Fields of Choeng Ek,

you will see the mass graves of more than 17,000 men, women and children who were executed at this extermination camp

between 1975 and 1978.

Note: These historically significant sites are grim reminders of the extermination policies carried out by the Khmer Rouge. If

you choose to participate in these visits, be prepared for some gruesome and depressing sights.

ITINERARY

Day 1: (L,D)

Flight to Siem Reap

Lunch at hotel

Visit Angkor Wat until sunset

Dinner at Restaurant with Cultural Dance Show

Overnight at hotel, Siem Reap

Day 2: (B,L,D)

South Gate of Angkor Thom, Bayon, Baphuon, Terrace of Leper King, Elephant and Ta Prohm

Boat trip on Tonle Sap Lake followed by local life of people in village

Transfer to airport for flight to Phnom Penh

Day 3: (B,L)

Breakfast at hotel

Toul Sleng, Killing Fields, and National Museum

Lunch at Restaurant

Visit Silver Pagoda, Royal Palace and transfer to airport




TIME

Date Time



HIGHLIGHTS

Historic sites in Phnom Penh

Killing Fields of Choeng Ek

Temples of Angkor Wat

Sunset visit to Angkor Wat

Killing Fields of Choeng Ek

Local life in Cambodia

Boat trip on Tonle Sap Lake

17


HCM-302-201 TEMPLES OF ANGKOR 3 days/2 nights

( Angkor is an incomparable temple















and for later use as his funerary temple. The Bayon Temple of the complex is an edifice of 54 towers, each carved with the

four enigmatic faces of the Bodhisattva Avalokitesvara and bas-relief events.

ITINERARY

Day 1: (L,D)

Upon arrival meet guide and transfer to

hotel for lunch

Dinner at Restaurant with Cultural Dance

Show


Day 2: (B,L,D)

Optional sunrise at Angkor and back to hotel for breakfast

Visit Ta Prohm, Bayon via Ta Keo, Thommanon, Chau Say, Tevoda, Elephants Terrace, Leper King Terrace

and tour of Bayon and South Gate of Angkor Thom

Lunch at Shadow of Angkor Restaurant

Visit Angkor Wat until sunset

Dinner at Viroth's Restaurant


Day 3: (B,L)

Breakfast at hotel

Boat trip on Tonle Sap Lake followed by local life of

people in the village

Lunch at hotel

Visit Preah Khan and Neak Pean and transfer to airport

for flight to Saigon




TIME

Date Time



HIGHLIGHTS

Historic sites in Siem Reap including famous Angkor Temples


Angkor Wat at sunrise or sunset

Cultural dance show

18


Day 2: Thursday, February 14

HCM-308-201 CAT TIEN NATIONAL PARK 3 days/2 nights

Cat Tien National Park is an important national park in Viet Nam that protects

one of the largest areas of lowland tropical rainforests left in the country. The

park was designated as a Rhinoceros Reserve in 1992 upon the discovery of a

population of Javan Rhinoceros. The park suffered during the Viet Nam War when

it was extensively sprayed with pesticides like the defoliant Agent Orange. To this

day these areas have extensive bamboo and grassland cover, but trees have not

yet grown back. Cat Tien is one of the

world’s premier sites for biodiversity

and is also a model for the UNESCO

goal of ensuring sustainable

economic, cultural and social

development of indigenous people.

Your guide will provide information on

local flora and fauna as well as on

conservation issues in Viet Nam.

As the park has only recently been opened to tourists, facilities are sparse and quite rustic. Accommodations are very basic

and include all bedding and bathroom facilities, though hot water is unreliable. A small restaurant serves simple Vietnamese

food. This is the ideal excursion for those who wish to “get away from it all” and won’t mind the rustic conditions, hiking

through the forest and boating in very hot and humid weather.

Note: Sturdy walking shoes required for trekking.

ITINERARY

Day 1: (L,D)

4.5-hour drive to Cat Tien with brief stops at a teak plantation La Nga fishing village if time

permits

Short river crossing to park headquarters

Lunch at one of park’s restaurants

4-hour boat ride on Dong Nai river

Evening search for wild deer, boar and nocturnal insects

Day 2: (B,L,D)

Trek through park’s forest to northern wetlands

Botany and natural vegetation explained on nature walk

Vietnamese style lunch at Bau Sau

Leisure evening by riverside

Day 3: (B)

Breakfast at park headquarters before

check-out

Visit Dao Tien Endangered Species Centre

Return drive to Saigon


Adult $ 270 $ 259

Child $ 135 $ 129

TIME

Date Time



HIGHLIGHTS

Cat Tien is one of six biosphere reserves in the world

Endangered Primate Species Centre

Trekking in National Park

19


HCM-303-301 TEMPLES & EGBOK SERVICE 3 days/2 nights

Angkor is an incomparable temple















and for later use as his funerary temple. The Bayon Temple of the complex is an edifice of 54 towers, each carved with the

four enigmatic faces of the Bodhisattva Avalokitesvara and bas-relief events.

The EGBOK Mission (Everything’s Gonna Be OK) was founded by

SAS 2007 Alum, Ben Justus. At the EGBOK student home you’ll

discuss Cambodian history, the unintended consequences of

the tourist economy in the country, and learn how EGBOK

utilizes the hospitality industry to alleviate poverty through self-

sustaining employment. Conclude your evening with a

Cambodian-style dinner, cooked together with EGBOK Mission

students. This excursion is designed for SAS participants to

experience a more intimate and authentic side of Cambodia that

is not often seen by travelers.

ITINERARY

Day 1: (L,D)

Arrival in Siem Reap and met by professional guide

Lunch at hotel

Visit Angkor Thom, Elephant Terrace, Terrace of the Leper King, the Bayon temple and Ta Prohm temple


Overnight at hotel in Siem Reap

Day 2: (B,L,D)

Visit Angkor Wat

Lunch at Sala Bai Restaurant

Local guide will accompany group to EGBOK’s mission

center

Dinner hosted by EGBOK

Day 3: (B,L)

Visit Ton Le Sap Lake

Lunch at hotel

Transfer to airport for onward flight




TIME

Date Time



HIGHLIGHTS

Historic sites in Siem Reap including famous Angkor Wat


Work with EGBOK Mission

Ton Le Sap Lake

Prepare dinner with EGBOK students

20


BURMA



Field Labs Rangoon, BURMA Monday, 25 February

YANL1 SEMS 3500-109 Professor Kattwinkel Puppet Theatre

YANL2 SEMS 3500-107 Professor Lewis Theory and Practice of Persuasion

YANL3 SEMS 3500-503 Professor R. Oliphant International Marketing (Section 1)

Day 1: Monday, February 25

RAN 402-202 BAGAN 4 days/3 nights

Known as the city of four million

pagodas, Bagan is one of the richest

archaeological sites in Asia. Here

one can find over 2,000 pagodas,

temples and monasteries built

during the Bagan Dynasty founded

by King Anawrahta in 1044 CE. The

scene of thousands of ancient

pagodas scattered amongst the

plains of Bagan will no doubt leave a lasting impression in the minds of all who

travel here. Bagan is a truly mesmerizing destination, and often the favorite of

seasoned travelers. Bagan can only be described as amazing and enchanting.

You will experience the essence of Myanmar in a place still largely unaffected by

the 21st century. Nobody leaves disappointed, only engrossed.

ITINERARY

Day 1:

Transfer to Yangon Airport for late PM flight to Bagan

Hotel check-in; dinner on your own

Day 2: (B,L,D)

Visit pagodas of Bagan

Experience day in the life of local villager

Lunch at local restaurant; leisure time at hotel

Pony cart ride to sunset view from Pyatthada Pagoda

Day 3: (B,L,D)

Depart in AM for Mount Popa

Stop en-route at Palm plantation

Lunch at Popa Mountain Resort

Return trip to Bagan for leisure time

Late PM sunset boat ride on Irrawady River

Day 4: (B,L)

Visit Nyaung Oo market

Visit local teashop

Learn about lacquerware at Ms. Moe’s workshop


Transfer to Bagan airport for flight to Yangon


Adult $ 650 $ 622

Child $ 325 $ 311

TIME

Date Time



HIGHLIGHTS

Temples in Bagan Archaeological Zone

Pony cart ride

Mt. Popa

Sunset cruise

Local market experience

Laquerware workshop

21


RAN 401-102 INLE LAKE 4 days/3 nights

The prime attraction of the Shan

state is Inle Lake. This vast,

picturesque lake, surrounded by

hazy Blue Mountains, is 900

meters above sea level. The lake

is 22 kilometers long and 10

kilometers wide with hosting

islands. Inle Lake is famous for its

Inthas (native lake-dwellers) who

have a unique way of rowing with

their legs. At the northern end of

the lake is a small town called Nyaung Shwe, the gateway to Inle Lake. Here you

will peruse the famed 5 Day Market at a local village and observe the colorful

tribes buying and selling produces. Then visit the famous “jumping cat”

Monastery, where the monks have trained cats to jump through hoops! Proceed

to Phaung Daw Oo Pagoda and visit a nearby bazaar. Visit a silk weaving village,

Inn Paw Khone. Proceed to the beautiful temples of Indein.

Climb up the covered passage to enjoy the peaceful and stunning views at the summit.

The temples are unusually Khmer-like in style and date back to the 17th and 18th

century Shan Pagoda. On the way back, visit floating villages and gardens. At a village

orphanage school, you’ll be able to interact with children and learn about the education

system in the Shan state. Later, enjoy a visit to a village monastery. In his lifetime a

Myanmar male is expected to spend some of his life serving as a monk to learn the

ways of Buddhism. Making a donation to the monastery will allow you to serve the

monks food and thereby gain merit. Today, Destination Asia will make a donation on

your behalf and allow you participation in providing the monks their final meal of the

day. This tour of the Inle Lake area will help you appreciate the simple pleasures of village life on the water.

ITINERARY

Day 1: (L,D)

Transfer to Yangon Airport for Flight to Heho

Upon arrival, travel to Nyanung Shwe


Hotel check-in, dinner in Nyanung Shwe

Day 2: (B,L,D)

Visit 5 Day Market at local village

Famous “jumping cat” Monastery

Phaug Daw Oo Pagoda and nearby Bazaar

Inn Paw Khone, silk weaving village

Beautiful temples of Indein

Floating villages and gardens

Day 3: (B,L,D)

Mine Thauk village on the lake

Orphanage school in village surrounding Inle Lake

Village monastery

Participate in providing meal to monks

Picnic lunch at monastery

Soft trekking adventure into mountains of Inle Lake

Day 4: (B,L)

Transfer to Heho airport for flight to Yangon

Upon arrival, transfer to Ship


Adult $768 $ 735

Child $384 $ 367.50

TIME

Date Time



HIGHLIGHTS


Nga Phe monastery, for typical Shan Buddha Images

Phaung Daw Oo Pagoda

Inndein, ancient pagoda complex

Visit orphanage

Serve meal to monks at monastery

Floating villages and farms

22


RAN 403-202 KALAW – INLE LAKE TREKKING EXPERIENCE 4 days/3 nights

Kalaw is on the rim of the Shan

Plateau in central Burma. There

are several interesting hill tribe

villages in the area including the

Palaung and Pa-O tribes.

On this tour you’ll explore the

Kalaw area that surrounds Inle

Lake by trekking from Bow Hnin

Gone Point to Gone Hal, enjoying

the pleasant scenery and local

flora and fauna. Soon you’ll pass

through the villages of Pe Tu Pauk and Hti Thane, where you’ll enjoy lunch and a

special bonfire dinner, respectively.

After breakfast at a monastery, continue trekking to Inle Lake pass through

three villages over a three-hour period until arriving in Than Taung Village for

lunch. Continue to walk down hill through an impressive gorge descending to the

Inle Lake. Walk along the village to Thann Taung Jetty and proceed to your hotel for

refreshment.

Begin your day at the Nga Phe monastery whose monks have gained fame by teaching their

cats to jump through hoops! Tour the Phaung Daw Oo Pagoda, noted for its gilded images of

the Buddha, and a nearby bazaar. Finally, you’ll travel to the silk weaving village of Inn Paw

Khone, with a stop en-route to view local floating farms and fishing techniques. This special trip will give you a taste of Inle

Lake natives’ unique culture and lifestyle.

Note: This trip involves strenuous physical activity in a wilderness setting. It is not recommended for those with limited

mobility/endurance. Please bring a pair of sturdy walking shoes.

ITINERARY

Day 1: (D)

Transfer to Yangon airport for flight to Heho

Upon arrival, 1.5-hour drive to Kalaw

Evening walk to city area to enjoy town

Day 2: (B,L,D)

Bow Hnin Gone Point to start 2.5-hour trek to Gone Hal

After lunch, Pe Tu Pauk village for 2.5 hours

45-min. trek to Hti Thane Village

Dinner by bonfire

Overnight at Hti Thane local monastery

Day 3: (B,L,D)

Breakfast at monastery and explore village

Trek to three villages

Lunch at Than Thaung village

Conclude trekking and transfer to hotel for dinner and overnight

Day 4: (B,L,D)


Phaung Daw Oo Pagoda and nearby bazaar


Observe local fishing & visit floating farms


Adult $ 779 $ 746

Child $ 389.50 $ 373

TIME

Date Time



HIGHLIGHTS

6 Village excursions while trekking

Local life

Inle Lake and surrounding wildlife

Overnight at a monastery


Silk weaving home industry

Floating farms

Bonfire dinner

23


Day 2: Tuesday, February 26

RAN 301-201 MANDALAY – PYOO OO LWIN 3 days/2 nights

Mandalay is the largest city after

Yangon and is the place where one

will come to experience the ‘real’

Myanmar. The Royal City came into

being in 1859 when King Mindon

established it as a new center for the

teaching of Buddhism. The King also

named Mandalay as his capital,

moving it from nearby Amarapura to

the newly built Royal Palace at the

foot of the Mandalay Hill.

Being rich in monasteries and

pagodas, Mandalay is still accepted

as the arts and cultural heartland of Myanmar. For lovers of arts and crafts,

Mandalay represents the largest repository of Myanmar arts and crafts. Skilled

crafts-men make world famous genuine tapestry called “Shwe Chi Htoe” (Golden

Weaving), beautiful articles of ivory, wood, marble and stone, silverware and

bronze statues according to the time-honored traditions of their forefathers.

ITINERARY

Day 1: (L,D)

Transfer to Yangon airport for flight to Mandalay

2-hour drive to Pyin Oo Lwin – British Hill Station

Kandawgyi National Park

Stage-coach ride

Day 2: (B,L,D)

Local market

Pwe Kauk Waterfall and nearby villages

Private/monastic school

Day 3: (B,L)

U Pein Bridge, longest wooden bridge in Myanmar

Tour Mandalay

Mahamuni Pagoda

Shwe Kyaung (Golden Palace Monastery)

Kuthodaw Pagoda, houses world’s largest book

Transfer to Mandalay Airport for return flight to Yangon


Adult $ 698 $ 668

Child $ 349 $ 334

TIME

Date Time



HIGHLIGHTS

Kandawgyi National park

Pwe Kauk waterfall & nearby village

School excursion & local markets

U Pein wooden bridge

Mahamuni Buddha Image

Shwe Kyaung typical Buddhist

monastery

Kuthodaw, world’s largest book

Temperate climate

24


RAN 404-201 NGWE SAUNG BEACH & ELEPHANT CAMP 4 days/3 nights

Discover Pathein, the capital city of the delta region and the gateway to

Chaungtha and Ngwe Saung beach. Situated in the Ayeyawaddy Delta about 190

kilometers west of Yangon is the

capital of the Ayeyarwaddy Division.

Pathein is well known for its

production of unique parasol locally

called “Pathein Hti” and for its

Pathein umbrellas and pottery.

Ngwe Saung is also on the western

coast of Myanmar on the Bay of

Bengal, nearly directly west of

Yangon. The beauty of the beach is

unspoiled and visitors can enjoy a

peaceful and relaxing stay. Ngwe Saung extends its warmest welcome to visitors

who wish to relax amidst the waving palms and balmy breezes of a truly

memorable ocean resort.

After enjoying your beach experience, visit the Treasure Elephant Camp and experience an

elephant ride through Myanmar’s tropical jungle. Elephants in Myanmar are still put to work in

the lush forests to pull logs as the areas are inaccessible to modern machinery, but they are

taken care of as if they were a family member or friend. After an unforgettable visit to the

Elephant Camp, drive back to Pathein. The incredible scenery and wildlife of this tour will be

sure to inspire happy memories for years to come.

ITINERARY

Day 1: (L)

5-hour drive to Pathein (stops en-route for lunch/rest)

Parasol workshop

Local market and harbor life

Late PM drive to Ngwe Saung Beach

Evening and dinner at your leisure

Day 2: (B)

Local village life

Observe education system in local school

Share stationery gifts with kids

Day 3: (B,D)

Local home visit

Lunch and afternoon at your leisure

Farewell dinner at hotel

Day 4: (B,L)

Depart Ngwe Saung Beach

Treasure Elephant Camp; ride elephant through jungle

Return drive to Pathein (rest stops made as necessary)


Transfer back to Yangon and ship


Adult $ 352 $ 346

Child $ 176 $ 173

TIME

Date Time


Return March 1 1700

HIGHLIGHTS

Pathein city

Parasol industry


Beach experience

School excursion

Elephant camp & jungle ride

25


RAN 406-201 SAS EXCLUSIVE: SAGAING MONASTERY EXPERIENCE 4 days/3 nights

This program begins onboard with Professor William Waldron where he will

introduce participants to the Buddhist culture, answer questions and establish

expectations for this unique experience. Participants will have the opportunity to

explore the mental and

material culture of northern

Burma firsthand. Mandalay

is Burma’s second largest

city and its last royal capital

before being annexed to

the British Empire in 1885.

It is widely considered the

center of traditional

Burmese Buddhist culture,

boasting palaces, monasteries and more than 700 pagodas. The nearby town of Sagaing is also a cultural and monastic

center, dating from the fourteenth century. This program will combine traditional training in Buddhist meditation at a small

monastery in Sagaing with sightseeing in Sagaing and Mandalay. You will settle into the monastery routine, spending

mornings in silent meditation and afternoons visiting the major historical and religious sites in Sagaing and Mandalay, by foot

and by bus, respectively. While you won’t be pressured to ‘become Buddhist,’ you will be expected to respect simple monastic

guidelines, observing local cultural norms. Meditation is challenging but rewarding, offering a unique entry to modern Burmese

Buddhist culture.

Note: Monastic guidelines must be followed on the premises: no alcohol or drugs, no sexual activity, no loud noise or music

especially late at night, modest clothing, and a readiness to observe local cultural norms.

ITINERARY

Day 1: (B,D)

Transfer by bus for Sagaing

Lunch at monastery

Intro to meditation & learn monastic routine

Dinner and early sleep

Day 2: (B,L,D)

Optional early meditation

Lunch and short meditation afterwards

PM free to tour Buddhist sites in Sagaing

Dinner and early sleep

Day 3: (B,L)

Optional early meditation

Breakfast followed by morning meditation and lunch

Bus tour to Buddhist and historical sites in Mandalay

Day 4:

Early departure by bus for Rangoon


Adult TBA TBA

Child TBA TBA

TIME

Date Time


Return March 1 PM

HIGHLIGHTS

Monastery life in Sagaing

Personal tour of Buddhist and historical

sites in Mandalay

26


Day 3: Wednesday, February 27

RAN 303-301 PINDAYA – INLE LAKE TOUR 3 days/2 nights

The prime attraction of the Shan state is Inle

Lake. This vast, picturesque lake, surrounded

by hazy Blue Mountains, is 900 meters above

sea level. The lake is 22 kilometers long and

10 kilometers wide with hosting islands. Inle

Lake is famous for its Inthas (native lake-

dwellers) who have a unique way of rowing with

their legs.

Pindaya is a small quiet town perched on the

bank of the placid Potaloke Lake. To the east

of Pindaya lies a plateau which is about 1000

meters above sea level and to the west lies a

mountain range which is about 1500 meters

high. Huge monastery compounds with

numerous pagodas and temples in different stages of dilapidation are much

respected by such ethnic groups as the Shans, Danus and Paos living in the

environs of Pindaya.

ITINERARY

Day 1: (L,D)

Transfer to Yangon airport for flight to Heho

3-hour scenic drive from Heho to Pindaya

Tribal village and local school visit to meet students

Lunch at a village; dinner in Pindaya

Day 2: (B,L,D)

Local market

Drive to Inle Lake


Floating farm that grows 80% of country’s tomatoes

Phaung Daw Oo Pagoda and nearby bazaar


Day 3: (B)

AM transfer to airport for return flight to Yangon

Upon arrival, return to ship


Adult $ 818 $ 784

Child $ 409 $ 392

TIME

Date Time


Return March 1 1200

HIGHLIGHTS

Pindaya town

Vegetable plantation


School excursion

Lunch at a local village

Nge phae monastery with typical Shan

Buddha Images


Floating farm

27


RAN 201-301 GOLDEN ROCK 2 days/1 night

Kyaikhtiyo is home to the famous Golden Rock.

Located 160 kilometers from Yangon and rising

1,100 meters above sea level, the golden rock is

truly an amazing site. The rock sits at the top of the

mountain, precariously perched on the edge of the

hill. It looks as if, at any second, the huge rock

might tumble down. Revered by the Buddhists in

Myanmar as a sacred site, many people come here

to pray. Like the Shwedagon Pagoda in Yangon and

the Mahamuni Pagoda in Mandalay, Kyaikhtiyo is

one of the most sacred sites in Myanmar. Although

many have tried, none have dislodged the rock from

its perch.

After spending the night in Kyaikhtiyo, you will return to Yangon by way of Bago,

an ancient capital of the Mon Kingdom in the 13th century. Bago is situated just

80 kilometers from Yangon and is said to have been founded in 573 CE by two

Mon princes from Thaton.

ITINERARY

Day 1: (L,D)

6-hour travel by coach to Kyaikhtiyo

Upon arrival, transfer for more adventurous drive to transit junction (light snack provided)

Easy hike to Golden Rock

Lunch at hotel

Golden Rock platform and local life/shops at summit

Sunset view

Day 2: (B,L)

Transfer to Yangon, stopping in Bago en-route

Shwethalyaung Pagoda

Pottery village

Htauk kyan war cemetery (WWII casualties)

Drive to ship


Adult $ 262 $ 257

Child $ 131 $ 128.50

TIME

Date Time



HIGHLIGHTS

Kyaikhtiyo golden rock

Bago, ancient capital of Mon Kingdom

Shwethalyaung Reclining Buddha Image


Pottery village

Htauk kyan war cemetery

28


RAN 302-301 YANGON/RANGOON 3 days/2 nights

Yangon is the main gateway and capital city of

Myanmar. It lies in the fertile delta country of

southern Myanmar, on the wide Yangon River,

about 30 kilometers from the Andaman Sea.

Although the population hover around six million,

the city gives a different impression from other

Asian capitals of similar size. It seems full of

trees and shade, even old teak

growth, with some outlying

neighborhoods refreshingly

overgrown, taking on a more

provincial feel rather than that

of an international city. In the

city center, the streets are wide

and carefully laid out according to a typical British grid system, originating from the time when the country was colonized.

Start your city orientation with a visit to the Sule Pagoda, said to be over 2,000 years old and to enshrine one of Buddha’s

hairs. A visit to one of the Meditation Centers will allow you to learn a critical component of Buddhism – the achievement of

inner peace through meditation. Culminate the day with the lighting of the Shwedagon Pagoda.

Finally, you’ll visit the Kalaywa Monastery, where if people make donations to the monastery they are able to serve the monks

food in order to gain merit. Destination Asia will make a donation on your behalf, allowing you to participate in the morning

ceremony and feed the monks their final of the day. Through service and interaction with the local people, you’ll experience a

love for the people and culture of this unique and beautiful area of Burma.

ITINERARY

Day 1: (L,D)

1-hour coach ride to downtown Yangon

Sule Pagoda

Photo stops at City Hall, Colonial Buildings

Reclining Buddha Statue

Photo stop in Kandawgyi Park, Karaweik Royal Barge

Meditation Centre

Shwedagon Pagoda, one of the wonders of the world

Lighting of golden Paya

Day 2: (B,L,D)

Kalaywa Monastery

Participate in serving meal to monks

Lunch at monastery

Downtown area including Chinatown and fruit market

Day 3: (B,L)

Local life


Return to ship


Adult $ 752 $ 720

Child $ 376 $ 360

TIME

Date Time


Return March 1 1300

HIGHLIGHTS

Colonial area exploration

Chauk Htat Gyi – Reclining Buddha

Image

Leisure walk to Kandawgyi park

Shwedagon pagoda with lighting event

Meditation center

Kalaywa monastery

Serve meal to monks

China town

Local life

29


overnight trips in asia - semester at sea...icons, at the iga-ryu ninja museum. ninjitsu is not...

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