If you’re looking to make some family memories this summer but you want to try something a bit different, maybe a break that’s a little bit off the usual holiday trail, a brand-new Southeast Asian cruise could be perfect for you.
Gypsy is a 41-metre, two-cabin, private river boat that launched last month on the mighty Mekong. The lavishly refurbished cruiser sails in great style between Thailand’s Golden Triangle in the north and the ancient Laotian capital of Luang Prabang in the south, taking in a heap of sights and sounds along the way.
With space for four people, it’s ideal for families who want to enjoy a dose of cultural immersion as well as some serious downtime together.
The privately tailored tour meanders between Chiang Rai and the UNESCO World Heritage city of Luang Prabang over four days and three nights, taking in the Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp and Resort in Chiang Rai, myriad temples and the languid, lush countryside of the fabled Mekong Delta. Shore excursions include guided jungle treks, mountain biking, freshwater fishing, craft workshops, Laos whisky-tasting and a visit to the Pak Ou limestone caves.
Back on board, there’s a host of wellness and cultural options on offer, including yoga, folk dancing, Lao language classes, a weaving workshop and cooking classes. And when you’re ready to kick back and enjoy the scenery, there’s always the Champagne afternoon tea on deck.
The carefully thought-out spaces on the vessel include two cabins, a mid-ship lounge, a bar and dining area and a separate veranda-style lounge with al fresco panorama deck at the bow of the boat.
The interior design is the brainchild of Bangkok-based design consultant Jiraparnn Tokeeree, who has blended wood and thatch fixtures and fittings with woven leather seating, oversized bamboo daybeds and rich Thai silks and fabrics. Fabulous floor-to-ceiling windows ensure the spectacular scenery is always within view.
The air-conditioned cabins comprise one king and one twin room, and both have an ensuite shower and vanity.
Rates start from US$5,450 per boat for a four-day, three-night cruise, including all on-board meals, a welcome reception with canapes, soft drinks, water, beer, selected wines, coffee and tea, Wi-Fi, shore excursions, English guide, entrance fees and transfers, on-board activities and return airport or hotel transfers. Children under four travel free. mekongkingdoms.com
Beyond the Highrise 