The Ultimate in Exotic Destinations - Vietnam and Cambodia

The exotic destination of Vietnam lies in Southeastruins. According to Wikipedia, "Since 1991, the site has
Asia's center, bordering China in the north, Laos andbeen maintained by the World Monuments Fund. It has
Kampuchea in the West, and the Pacific Ocean in thecontinued the cautious approach to restoration,
east. The entire country stretches from the Ha Tuyenbelieving that to go further would involve too much
province in the north to the Minh Hai province in theguesswork, and prefers to respect the ruined nature
south, and includes thousands of enticing offshoreof the temple." Preah Khan is a huge and interesting
islands and striking archipelagos.monastic complex that draws visitors from across the
Archeologists date Vietnam's genesis to approximatelyglobe.
300,000 years ago. Official history, however, datesNeak Pean, an artificial island with a Buddhist temple
Vietnam's beginnings to about 4,000 years ago.also built during the reign of King Jayavarman VII, was
Although the French governed Vietnam frommeant to represent a mythical lake in the Himalayas
1858-1954, the name "Vietnam" conjures images of theknown as Anavatapta, where the waters were
war with the United States, which ended more thanbelieved to cure all manner of illness. Neak Pean was
twenty years ago. Today, Vietnam welcomes touristsoriginally designed as one of several hospitals built by
from many nations to its lush, green interior, wherethe king. Based on the ancient Hindu belief of balance,
striking cultural sights and sounds abound. With tropicalfour pools connect, representing water, earth, fire and
temperatures year round and the welcoming smiles ofwind, with a central water source in the middle.
its people, the country is a popular destination forStepping into these pools was thought to balance the
tourists seeking an off the beaten track" journey thatbather's elements and cure disease. A statue of the
artfully blends the physical with the spiritual.god Bahala stands guard to prevent drowning.
Cambodia, bordering the Gulf of Thailand to the south,East Mebon: A 10th century temple in Angkor, East
Thailand to the east, Vietnam to the West, and LaosMebon was built during the reign of King
to the North, was founded from 802 to 1431 A.D.,Rajendravarman and stands today at the center of
stretching during its peak as far as the Thailand-Burmathe now dry East Baray reservoir, dedicated to Shiva,
Border in the west and Wat Phou of Laos in the north.the Hindu god, and honoring the parents of the king.
Ancient Khmer rulers enforced unity among andExquisitely sculptured, this temple includes freestanding
enhanced prosperity, leaving behind exceptionalstone elephants, two meters high, at the corners and
monuments such as Angkor Wat and numerousreligious scenes of revered gods elegantly carved on
unique sculptures and artifacts, as well as a peoplelintels.
who pride themselves on showcasing their country'sMost travelers will never have the opportunity to see
stunning contrasts.these wondrous sites. But now, 25 fortunate
The most popular Vietnam and Cambodian attractionsparticipants can partake in a two-week expedition that
include:will literally change their lives forever. Noble-Manhattan
Vietnam Mount Fan Si Pan: the highest mountain inCoaching, one of Europe's longest established coach
Indo-China, Fan Si Pan is located in the Lào Caitraining companies dedicated to transforming lives and
province in Northwest Vietnam. Dubbed "the Roof ofhelping others achieve their goals presents
Indochina", Fan Si Pan also boasts 2,024 floral varietiesNoble-Quest. Founded by Noble-Manhattan CEO
and 327 faunal species. Climbing Fan Si Pan isGerard O'Donovan, Noble-Quest is offering this exotic
exhilarating and physical, a true once-in-a-lifetimeSoutheast Asian adventure during October 19th - 31st,
experience not soon forgotten.2009. The quest will raise money for a charitable
Angkor Wat: the best-preserved temple at Angkor,business, The Noble Foundation, committed to helping
Cambodia, and the only temple to remain a significantmen and women become self-sufficient through
religious center. A prime example of classical stylemicro-financing, and offers participants an unusual
Khmer architectural style, Angkor Wat has drawn highglimpse into the Vietnamese and Cambodian cultures,
praise for the harmony of its overall design and theand the extraordinary opportunity to walk amongst
overarching sense of spirituality visitors experience.ancient structures and bask in the beauty of these
Angkor Thom: One of the last and most enduringdistant lands. Joining the group is Scott Milway, trained
capital cities of the Khmer empire, Angkor Thom wasby the Deepak Chopra organization in Primordial Sound
established in the late twelfth century by kingMeditation and ready to lead daily meditations for the
Jayavarman VII and is revered for its large scalegroup.
construction, widespread use of special weatherizedIf a stunning destination of natural beauty, rarely seen
bricks known as laterite, and the "naga", orculture, and ancient artifacts intrigues you, and if the
cobra-carrying giant monsters on its towers.chance to commune with your peers in a deeply
Preah Khan: Another temple at Angkor, Cambodia,spiritual and physically active setting sounds like the
Preah Khan was also built in the 12th century for Kingperfect way to recharge your batteries, please
Jayavarman VII and has remained largely unrestored,contact Noble-Quest to reserve your special place for
with vast trees and vegetation growing among itsthis momentous expedition.