Deal

Bali best reveals its deep history in artistry and craft. Admire the work of goldsmiths in Celuk, woodcarvers in Mas, and village batik artists whose hands follow patterns passed down through generations. In Ubud, the former royal capital, Hindu shrines sit among banyan trees, while the surrounding Jatiluwih Rice Terraces—a UNESCO World Heritage Site—invite exploration by foot or by bike. Even more World Heritage Sites dot the landscape: Pakerisan Valley, a mystical river valley which contains the remains of ancestors from ages ago; Taman Ayun Temple, the largest and most architecturally distinguished regional water temple; and Pura Ulun Danu Batur, a beautiful water temple on the edge of a crater lake. Across the island, the 11th-century Uluwatu Temple watches over surfers waiting to catch their next wave. Still, there’s more; beyond the bustle, Gianyar’s food heritage stands out with authentic recipes rich in ritual and delicious in taste.

Onboard comforts extend to shore at Ta’aktana, a Luxury Collection Resort and Spa. Inspired by Flores’ spiderweb-shaped Lingko rice fields, Ta’aktana builds island tradition into every detail—woven textures, hand-carved wood, and warm local hospitality. Unwind beside the turquoise pool, sip champagne at the overwater bar, or take in the tamarind-scented breeze from a shaded terrace or sandy beach. Yet Ta’aktana offers more than relaxation alone. Set on the western tip of Flores Island, it’s also an ideal gateway to Komodo—home of the famous dragons and the UNESCO-recognised national park. Whether you join a spa session, pause for a leisurely lunch, or venture to another island, this is a place to slow down and reflect on your experiences in this rare corner of the world.

Few places on Earth feel as ancient or as alive as Komodo. The island is home to its legendary namesake dragon, whose low, muscular gait seems like something from another time. Join a local ranger for a guided walk through the UNESCO-listed Komodo National Park to look for these prehistoric lizards, while also keeping an eye out for deer, wild boar, and rare, endangered birds. If you prefer to do your wildlife watching underwater, head to Pink Beach, a beautifully photogenic and uncrowded stretch named for the microscopic coral organisms that give the sand its blush colour. Here, the waters are as rich as on land; manta rays glide past coral gardens, and sea turtles and small sharks circle the reefs. Whether exploring Komodo on foot or through its kaleidoscopic waters, you’ll discover an experience unlike any other.

Lombok may be lesser known than its big-hitting neighbour Bali, but it’s no less compelling. The island is a treasure trove of tradition, where daily life carries on much as it has for centuries. Head south from the harbour through tobacco fields and rice terraces to Sukarara, and find a women’s weaving community that continues the tradition of threading vibrant songket patterns by hand. A trip inland brings you to Sade, a heritage village that has been inhabited by the same community for 15 generations, as well as Ende, a Sasak village where homes are built from clay and bamboo. If you’re lucky, you might even witness a peresean, a ceremonial stick fight accompanied by drums and flute.

If ever there was a place shaped by resilience and faith, it’s Semarang. This city on Java’s north coast is the gateway to Borobudur, the awe-inspiring 9th-century Buddhist monument and UNESCO World Heritage Site, buried for centuries beneath volcanic ash and only rediscovered in 1814. Bell-shaped stupas and intricate stone reliefs trace the path to enlightenment, drawing the faithful from around the world to its sacred walls. Not far away, the towering spires of Prambanan—Indonesia’s largest Hindu temple—rise from the plain, carved with scenes from ancient epics. While the temples are unmissable, Semarang itself rewards deeper exploration. Once a vital port in the Dutch East Indies, the city’s Old Town still whispers of 17th-century grandeur, with canals and ornate façades reflecting a layered history of spice trade, devotion, and migration.

A historic city on the southwest coast of Malaysia, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its rich cultural heritage and well-preserved architecture. The city’s history dates to the 15th century, when it was a bustling trading port for the Malay, Chinese, and Indian merchants. Discover its history with a visit to the A Famosa fortress, built by the Portuguese in the 16th century, or St. Paul’s Church, a historic church with panoramic views of the city. A favourite for many travellers is Jonker Street, known for its antique shops, street food stalls, and vibrant night market. Rich in culture, Malacca boasts a range of museums and galleries, including the Malacca Sultanate Palace Museum and the Baba Nyonya Heritage Museum, which showcase the city’s multicultural heritage. Food lovers will delight in Malacca’s diverse culinary scene, which features a mix of Malay, Chinese, and Nyonya cuisines. Sample local specialties such as satay, cendol, and chicken rice balls, as well as international cuisine from around the world. With its rich history, vibrant culture, and delicious food, Malacca has much to offer.