Deal

Singapore is a vibrant and multicultural city-state located in Southeast Asia, famous for its architectural style, foodie culture, and hawker markets. Singapore’s history is one of riches and romance, spice trading and piracy, colonialism, and ultimately, growth into one of Asia’s greatest success stories. Temples, mosques and churches stand as serene reminders of the varied migrations that have graced its history. Discover the mansions and polo greens of colonial Singapore, the mystique of Chinatown, and the heady aroma of spices along Arab Street.

Bustling Port Kelang is the principal port of entry for Malaysia. The country’s capital, Kuala Lumpur, is a surprisingly modern city of domes, minarets and spacious, tree-lined avenues. Her symbols of faith are visible at the Jamek Mosque, the city’s birthplace.

Located on the ancient spice routes, Penang is a compelling blend of Old World Asia, Sumatra, India, and the influences of its various European settlers over the centuries. It has been a historical link between Europe and the Middle East, and its modern identity remains a kaleidoscope ofcultures. Lively markets offer adventures for the palate, its emerging art scene adds intrigue to the urban jungle, and Penang Bridge and Penang Hill afford sweeping vistas.

Residents call Phuket `The Pearl of the South,` and one visit to this green, sun-soaked island in the Andaman Sea will show you why. The coast is a succession of magnificent beaches, the forested interior boasts virgin rain forests and numerous cacao, pineapple, and rubber plantations. The culture is a distinctive blend of Portuguese, Chinese and indigenous Chao Naam: a proud, seafaring people.

Situated on South Andaman Island, in the centre of the Bay of Bengal, Port Blair, the entry point (and capital) for visiting the Andamans, is well and truly off the tourist trail. It’s incredibly remote, Just 36 of the 500 island archipelago are open to visitors and with no commercial airport, non-residents to the region are few and far between. Lack of tourists however means good news for the local wildlife. 86% of the Andamans are covered with forest, so wildlife is one of the main attractions here: 270 species of birds (including 14 endemic birds) call the islands home, while underwater the kaleidoscopic marine life is rich and plentiful. The island once served as a penal colony and Cellular Jail, built by the British when India was under colony in the 18th century, offers a chance to see how the colonial government of India treated its exiled criminals and political prisoners.

Arriving in Hambantota, you will likely have Sri Lanka’s wildlife on your mind. Just over an hour away is Yala Safari Park, a jungled, grassy, lagoon-rich sanctuary bordering the Indian Ocean, which provides refuge for one of the world’s biggest leopard populations, as well as elephants, sloth bears, and jackals. Closer to the port is Bundala National Park, a mosaic of dunes and waterways harbouring nearly 200 bird species, among them greater flamingos that flock in for the winter, creating a dazzling, pink spectacle. The park is also home to elephants, civets, giant squirrels, marine turtles, and the fearsomely named mugger crocodiles. But Hambantota itself is not short of attractions. Witness fascinating harvesting and production processes at Hambantota Salt Factory, where vast salt pans shimmer in the sun. Explore the region’s rich cultural history at Magampura Ruhunu Heritage Museum, or pay a sobering visit to the area devastated by the 2004 tsunami, learning about the community’s experience, resilience, and rebuilding.

Known for its lively local culture, Colombo, Sri Lanka’s commercial capital, combines tropical landscapes with an unforgettable cosmopolitan vibe. Sri Lanka’s capital until recent times, this fascinating city is filled with an intriguing blend of cosmopolitan buildings and ancient temples. A key stop on the spice routes, Portuguese, Dutch, and British trading companies left behind churches, monuments and religions, as well as smatterings of their languages that have been incorporated into the speech and daily routine of the local Sri Lankans.

Cochin, also known as Kochi, is a captivating city in the southwestern Indian state of Kerala. This bustling destination is an enchanting jumble of modernity and tradition, which you’ll find reflected in its architecture, from its ancient churches and temples to its British colonial-era buildings. The city is one of India’s most photographed, largely due to its iconic Chinese fishing nets dotting the coastline. The ingeniously designed nets have become synonymous with Cochin’s waterfront and add a touch of unique charm to the coastal landscape. Head down to the waterfront to see how generations of fishermen use a system of ropes and pulleys to lower and raise the nets into the waters of the Arabian Sea. Historically, Cochin has vast significance as a spice trading hub, and has been one of the most significant spice route ports for over 5,000 years. This history is palpable in its bustling markets and aromatic spice stalls. Visitoris might also like to explore the historic Fort Kochi area, where cobblestone streets and colonial houses narrate tales of Portuguese, Dutch, and British influences.

Mormugao, located in the picturesque state of Goa, is a coastal gem that entices visitors with its unique blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and colonial charm. Nestled along the Arabian Sea, Mormugao boasts pristine sandy beaches that stretch as far as the eye can see. Discover the vibrant local culture as you explore the quaint villages, ancient temples, and Portuguese-era architecture. Indulge in the mouthwatering flavours of Goan cuisine, known for its fusion of Indian and Portuguese influences. Whether you’re seeking relaxation on the sun-kissed shores or an adventure in the lush hinterlands, Mormugao offers a captivating experience that leaves a lasting impression.

Explore Mumbai, the home of Bollywood and the dizzying commercial capital of India. Known as the city of dreams, Mumbai offers exhilarating experiences. Formerly known as Bombay, this city of temples where Mahatma Gandhi once lived, is home to extraordinary UNESCO treasures including the Elephanta and Ellora Caves, Agra Fort, and the Red Fort Complex. Overland journeys may be arranged to the exquisite Taj Mahal and the 2019-inscribed Jaipur Rajasthan, known also as the Pink City and revered for its colonnaded City Palace complex with royal gardens and courtyards.