Discover a delightful city of contrasts, from its old Chinese quarter and colorful Hindu temples to its modern skyscrapers, famous Tiger Balm Gardens and magnificent National Orchid Garden. Stroll along the Esplanade. Take a short cruise along the Singapore River and a tri-shaw ride through town. Visit the Kranji Memorial and Changi Chapel and Memorial, dedicated to those who lost their lives here during World War II.
One of the world’s veritable melting pots, the UNESCO World Heritage city of Melaka wears its diverse heritage proudly, with buildings ranging in style from colorful Dutch colonial and ornate Chinese to ultramodern Islamic. Take in the captivating sights from a touring vessel as you glide along the meandering Melaka River, or gain a bird’s-eye view of the skyline from the Taming Sari Tower’s revolving observation deck. The recreated village of Mini Malaysia immerses you in the country’s domestic sphere, with Malaysia’s 13 regions represented in faithfully rendered homes, while a replica of the 16th-century Portuguese galleon Flor de la Mar whispers tales of bygone seafaring odysseys.
Spend the day discovering this cosmopolitan city and its diversity of cultures, from the soaring Petronas Towers and the royal palace to Gothic churches, colonial remnants and a restored Malay timber house in a lovely heritage center. Experience everyday life as you browse the bustling markets and shops. Shopping: Shop for crafts, fine pewter, jewelry and batik.
Visit a batik factory, a butterfly farm, a mosque, church and Indian temple, or just laze around on the beach. Hike the rainforest and waterfall-clad mountains that form the backdrop to the beautiful sandy beaches on the island known as “The Pearl of the Orient.” The capital of the island was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site because of its unique culture and architecture.
Langkawi is the main island in the archipelago of the same name in the Andaman Sea. Stunning natural beauty and unique wildlife will surround you as you snorkel, horseback ride, hike, golf or simply relax on the powdery sands of the island beaches. Experience Langkawi’s wildlife up close on a boat tour of the amazing mangrove forest. Travel by cable car over ancient rainforests to the top of Mount Machincang.
Experience the many aspects of beautiful Phuket, from its lush landscape and gorgeous beaches to its 19th century Chinese and Western architecture and stunning temples. Visit the fascinating Sea Shell Museum, see the ornate Wat Chalong, watch elephants go through their paces at the elephant camp, and explore the unique and breathtaking Phang Nga National Park. Or just play on one of the island’s fabulous beaches.
At Sea
Off the beaten path on the southern edge of Sri Lanka, Hambantota reveals verdant beauty, ample culture and incredible biodiversity. It’s a gateway to several stunning national parks and wildlife sanctuaries. Yala National Park is a top choice for its sheer variety of wildlife – you might spot elephants, leopards, sloth bears and more. The UNESCO World Heritage site of Galle is also accessible from Hambantota – the 18th-century walled Old Town features charming Dutch architecture and possesses a beguiling, exotic ambiance that enchants travelers. Mirijjawila Botanical Garden, located in the dry zone, features a dazzling spectrum of rare and endemic plant species.
Dotted with stately colonial buildings, Sri Lanka’s largest city is quite beautiful and wonderfully frenetic. Explore the museums and temples or watch cricket at Galle Face Green. If the thrilling energy of the city becomes too much, relax under a cinnamon tree in serene Viharamahadevi Park.
At Sea
As the capital of the low-lying, coral-bed Maldives, winsome Malé is surrounded by a sea wall, where you might watch the fishing dhonis return with the day’s catch. Also be sure to see Friday Mosque, a masterpiece of filigree-curved coral built in the mid-1600s, and the Mulee-aage Palace.
At Sea
Sailing in to Port Louis, you’ll notice that the city is situated on several islets extending into the harbor. Discover delightful neighborhoods and shops, or take a tour to one of the many ecological preserves with wildlife, waterfalls, ponds and forests.
Enjoy the ecological diversity of this volcanic island; hike to Bride’s Veil Falls, explore the rainforest, take an excursion to the volcano peaks. Or visit a perfume factory, a vanilla plantation, and then amble through the streets of the charming Creole city.
At Sea
Intent on recapturing its former glamour, Maputo once again attracts the rich and famous, whom you may see while sipping a cocktail at the extravagant Hotel Polana. Maputo’s struggle for freedom from Portuguese colonialism is recounted in local museums.
Take an excursion to one of the nearby game reserves or simply gaze over the surrounding waters, where you might get a glimpse of dolphins, whales and kite-surfers. The best view is from the lookout point at Alkantstrand Beach. Richards Bay is a busy port and the myriad of specialized ships will intrigue marine buffs.
British colonial architecture prevails in Durban, yet natural beauty is what characterizes this charming city on the Indian Ocean. Its Golden Mile beach area attracts sunbathers, of course, but also shoppers and those who enjoy walking the promenade. The Juma Masjid deserves a visit, as it’s the largest mosque in the southern hemisphere.
The nation’s only port on a river, East London stretches along the banks of the Buffalo and is revered for its unspoiled beaches. Although links to England are apparent, East London still bears a refreshing South African ambiance. The aquarium is phenomenal, as is the East London Museum, which displays the world’s only dodo egg.
At Sea
It’s difficult to get lost in Cape Town because gorgeous Table Mountain looms above the city as a reference. For breathtaking views, ride the cable car to the top, or explore this urbane city on foot. Visit the fascinating South African Museum and Planetarium and the culturally significant St. George’s Cathedral.
