Travel With Purpose and Care
Founded on principles of cultural respect and thoughtful exploration, vandaa esscate curates journeys that honour both travellers and destinations.
Return HomeOur Story
vandaa esscate began with a simple observation: travel could be enriching without being overwhelming, culturally engaging without being extractive. Our founders, having spent years exploring Asia's diverse landscapes and traditions, sought to create a travel company that approached each destination with genuine curiosity and respect.
The name "Vanda" references Singapore's national flower, the Vanda Miss Joaquim orchid, symbolizing resilience and adaptation. Like this remarkable hybrid, our approach blends careful planning with flexibility, allowing journeys to unfold naturally while maintaining structure and comfort.
Since establishing our office in Singapore's Marina Bay district in 2018, we have focused on New Year travel experiences across Southeast Asia and Japan. This seasonal specialization allows us to develop deep knowledge of how different cultures observe this significant transition, from Vietnamese temple traditions to Japanese shrine visits and Cambodian riverside celebrations.
We work with local guides who bring personal knowledge and familial connections to their regions. Our accommodations are selected for their respect of local architectural traditions and commitment to community benefit. Transportation is arranged to minimize environmental impact while maximizing comfort and cultural encounter opportunities.
Our Values in Practice
These principles guide every journey we create and every relationship we maintain.
Cultural Sensitivity
We approach each destination as guests, learning local customs and supporting traditional practices through respectful engagement.
Environmental Care
Our itineraries prioritize sustainable transportation, locally-owned accommodations, and experiences that protect natural environments.
Authentic Partnerships
We collaborate with local businesses, guides, and artisans who benefit directly from tourism while sharing their knowledge genuinely.
Quality Standards and Safety
Licensed Operations
Registered with Singapore Tourism Board and maintaining comprehensive travel insurance coverage for all participants.
Vetted Partners
All accommodations, guides, and service providers meet established safety and quality benchmarks through regular evaluation.
Travel Protection
Guidance on appropriate insurance coverage and emergency protocols for each destination, with 24-hour support during journeys.
Health Considerations
Pre-departure health information, dietary accommodation support, and access to medical facilities at each destination.
Our Team
Our small team in Singapore works with experienced partners across Asia to ensure each journey unfolds smoothly. Rather than maintaining a large corporate structure, we focus on deep relationships with local experts who bring regional knowledge and cultural insights.
Maya Chen
Founding Director
Former regional tour manager with fifteen years experience across Southeast Asia and Japan, specializing in cultural heritage travel.
Ravi Tan
Operations Director
Manages logistics and partner relationships, ensuring smooth coordination across multiple countries and service providers.
Sarah Lim
Client Relations
Guides clients through journey planning, addressing preferences and needs with patience and attention to detail.
Community and Sustainability
We recognize that tourism impacts communities, both positively and negatively. Our approach seeks to maximize benefits while minimizing disruption to local life and natural environments.
Local Economic Support
Priority given to locally-owned accommodations, restaurants, and service providers. We avoid international chains where local alternatives exist.
Cultural Preservation
Partnerships with cultural centers, artisan cooperatives, and heritage sites that maintain traditional practices through tourism revenue.
Environmental Responsibility
Preference for overland travel where practical, support for conservation projects, and education on environmental sensitivity in fragile ecosystems.
Begin Your Journey
We invite you to explore Asia's New Year traditions with care and cultural sensitivity. Share your interests, and we'll craft a journey that honours both your preferences and the destinations we visit together.
Get in Touch