Oasis Travel

Sandakan is the largest city on Borneo. This huge city is built on the coast of the island and sits on a bay. Because Borneo was nearly destroyed during World War II, there is little left in area of historical architecture. However, Borneo and the city of Sandakan does offer some very interesting and unique adventures should you decide to visit.

First and formost Sandakan Travel requires that you take an amazing trip down the Kinabatangan river. The adventures along this river are a nature lover's dream. From the proboscis monkeys to the elephants to the gorgeous birds. Let's not forget the flora and fauna of which there are thousands of species.

One can't miss Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Center nor a trek into the jungle to see these amazing creatures. Other point of interest for Sandakan Travel are the caves at Gomantong and Turtle Islands Park. For the most part, a visit to Sandakan and the island of Borneo is for nature enthusiasts who love the outdoors and eco tours that will, for lack of a better term, knock your socks off.

If you're excited about touring the jungles, parks and rivers, but not excited about spending the night on a boat or encamped in the rain forest, there are hotels in the city. Most are small comfortable hotels, there are very few that offer what one would consider luxury, but they are nice, clean and comfortable. Some offer beach or ocean views while others are located in the heart of the city. There are also lodges and bed and breakfasts for the less adventurous tourists.

As far as dining goes, many restaurants can be found that serve fresh seafood and Chinese fare. There is even and English tea house that serves English cuisine and another local restaurant that offers Western fare.

Again, because of badly needed reconstruction after World War II, there are no historical landmarks or building to speak of in the Sandakan. You can however, find some interesting history of the war at Sandakan Memorial Park. Puu Gih Jih and St. Michael and All Angels Cathedral are of interest as well as Buli Sim Sim, a village that sits over the water on stilts. But the main reason to visit this city is it's beautiful coastline and the amazing excursions that can be had into the fascinating world of the rain forest.

Vietnam, once a war torn land with memories still recent in the minds of many, is not often seen as a tourist destination. But in recent years, Vietnam is changing this attitude. While some of the local services can be challenging, this small country is drawing tourists from all over the world to its beautiful beaches and amazing cities.

When arranging a trip to Vietnam, it's a good idea to check the various flights and schedules. There aren't any direct flights from any major airports, however, Vietnam can be reached by several carriers.

Research the country thoroughly, which can be difficult since there are many websites that have sketchy information about travel to Vietnam. You will however, find several blogs and first person accounts that can assist you with your travel plans. If you're planning luxury Vietnam travel over basic budget style travel, you will find many accommodating hotels and tours to indulge you. There are also several reputable tour operators to meet your needs.

If this is your first trip to Vietnam, it's probably wise to set your first time visit with one of these top tour operators. They will help plan the majority of your trip for you from accommodations to excursions to various areas, making sure that you get, at the very least, an overview of the country. Of course, you can wing it by reading up on the various points of interest and attractions and book your adventures a la carte. If you have a favorite travel planner, you may wish to consult them for assistance.

Various tour operators offer luxury Vietnam travel as well as a budget tours. Remember that this is an emerging country and most likely, you will find that you can choose a luxury vacation for much less than in other countries. Some suggestions for a great vacation in Vietnam are as follows.

You will need to begin in the city, Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City. From here you can head to architecturally rich port of Hoi An. If snorkeling and swimming is your preference, Nha Trang and the outer islands are where you'll want to spend a few days. If you're wanting a trip full of exciting adventures through the jungle, you can do that to. Traveling through the various country villages and climbing into the mountain area where the elephant is a part of everyday life for the people of the mountain. Historical tours are also available and encompass the history and mysticism of the Vietnamese people as well as those people that came from other countries to settle on the island for various reasons and of course, the remnants of war.

Vietnam is a fascinating country with much to offer, so when you think of visiting Asia, consider Vietnam.

If you're a nature enthusiast, then taking your next vacation to Indonesia, may be just the ticket. Of the Indonesian islands, there are two where you can find one of the rarest of the large ape species, the orangutan. Found only on the islands of Borneo and Sumatra, these lovely intelligent creatures share the rain forrests with many other species, flora and fauna, which makes an adventure to either or both of these islands perfect for those who wish to experience an outdoor trek down a quiet river and deep into the home of the orangutan.

With 380 bird species, 222 species of mammals and thousands of species of flora and fauna including orchids, trees and other greenery, the island of Borneo calls a nature adventurer to its amazing Tanjun Puting National Park.

The island is well known for it's orangutan populated rain forest and orangutan tours will not only expose you to these beautiful creatures, but other animals and birds as well. Take a trip into the secluded rain forest and be introduced to a world of amazing animals, plants and birds. Not only will you have the opportunity to observe the orangutan population, but you will also discover several other species of monkey.

Other orangutan tours may also take you to the island of Sumatra, the only other known island with an orangutan population. Your orangutan adventure will be a nature lover's dream. Although you will most likely experience the outdoors in a tropical setting, with very little in the way of convenience, the beauty and fascination of the area will far outweigh the lack of luxurious accommodations. While there are lodges and hotels, you will be hard pressed to find much out in the jungle and your local tour and guide will have all your basic needs covered from food to bedding and toilet facilities.

What you will get is a magnificent introduction to the fascinating world of the orangutan. You will experience the amazing scenery of the Indonesian rain forest and all it's inhabitants. You will have the trip of a lifetime. You will find the beauty of the area will captivate your imagination and make your adventure well worth the trip.