Day 1: Singapore
This island nation at the end of the Malaysian peninsula offers an extraordinary array of culture, history and cuisine. Embrace exotic sights and sounds strolling through Chinatown, the Arab Quarter or Little India. Head to the Boat Quay for unrivaled views of the harbor before dining at one of many international eateries. Shop along Orchard Road for treasures from every corner of the Pacific Rim; embark on a night safari at the Singapore Zoo or relax in the verdant shade of the Bukit Timah Nature Preserve. Wander the wondrously futuristic Gardens By the Bay before relaxing with a refreshing Singapore Sling at the iconic Raffles Hotel.
Day 2: Cruising the Gulf of Thailand
Day 3: Ko Samui, Thailand
An isolated, self-sufficient community called ‘Coconut Island’ until tourists began arriving in the early 1990s, Ko Samui is today the second most popular island destination in Thailand (after Phuket). You’ll find a plethora of white-sand beaches, dazzling coral reefs and unspoiled rainforest dotted with waterfalls. At a picturesque plantation, learn how locals use monkeys to pick ripe coconuts from towering trees. See the Wat Phra Yai (Big Buddha Temple), a striking, 49-foot-tall gleaming gold statue that’s beautifully silhouetted against an azure sky and sea. Dine on simply prepared yet incredibly tasty cuisine with a cold, coconut cocktail, lost in Thailand’s bright-blue bliss.
Day 4: Bangkok, Thailand
From the port city of Laem Chabang, discover the contrasting charms of Krung Thep (City of Angels) amongst the exotic temples, lavish palaces, teeming markets and urban skyline of Bangkok. Once a small trading center, Thailand’s capital city thrums equally on vendors selling legendary street food, graceful Thai architecture and saffron-robed monks. Ride a ubiquitous tuk-tuk to Wat Pho, home to an immense, reclining, gold-plated Buddha. See floating grocery stores and teakwood houses built on stilts on a boat tour along the Chao Phaya River. After shopping for Thai silk and jewelry, dine on classic Bangkok dishes like pad Thai, Khao mun gai and mango sticky rice.
Day 5: Koh Kut, Thailand
Day 6: Cruising the Gulf of Thailand
Day 7&8: Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Sitting on a giant bend in the Sài Gon River, the quintessentially cosmopolitan Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC) boasts glistening skyscrapers, bustling food markets and magnificent French-Colonial buildings. Gain important perspectives of Vietnam’s 20th-century war history at the War Remnants Museum and tunnels of C? Chi. Admire the grandeur of the 19th-century Notre Dame Cathedral, HCMC’s iconic symbol, and nearby Central Post Office. Get a local's view of the frenetic city center while zipping through alleyways on a motorbike. Embrace the spirituality of the Jade Emperor Pagoda and 1960s architecture of the Reunification Palace, stopping to savor Vietnamese street food like pho (noodle soup) or savory crepes.
Day 9 & 10: Cruising the South China Sea
Day 11: Hanoi (Ha Long Bay), Vietnam
Vietnam’s capital city is a gateway to Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Southeast Asia’s most stunning sights. Thousands of dolomite and limestone islets topped by forest rise dramatically from the bay’s waters, presenting a stirring tableau of grottoes, caves, rock arches and peaceful coves. Gain a phenomenal perspective of this one-of-a-kind land- and waterscape from the decks of a wooden junk, or perhaps kayak these celebrated waters. Experience Hanoi’s beguiling blend of French and Asian cultures in its Old Quarter and learn its history at the Vietnam Military History Museum, Temple of Literature and Ho Chí Minh Museum.
Day 12: Cruising the South China Sea
Day 13: Hong Kong, China
From an iconic skyline overlooking a glorious harbor to lush green mountains and sprawling parks, Hong Kong has all you could want (and more) in a world-class city. Gain a deeper understanding of Hong Kong’s culture and history at Man Mo Temple, ride the world’s steepest funicular to Victoria Peak and cruise through a fishing village by sampan. Escape the urban bustle with a walk along the soft, golden sands of Repulse Bay. Dive into classic favorites like dai pai dong (street-food stalls) and yum cha (tea and dim sum) after conquering a dizzying assortment of shopping venues in this commercial hub of Asia.
