Journey Through Southeast Asia: Singapore, Thailand, Indonesia, and Malaysia

Arrive in Singapore and transfer to the Fullerton Hotel. This evening, meet your fellow travelers at the welcome reception.

This morning we check out of our hotel and set off to explore this landmark city-state. Cosmopolitan Singapore, a former British colony, has transformed itself into one of the world’s leading and most innovative commercial centers. As we tour the old sections of the city, we see how Chinese, Malay, and Indian cultures thrive side by side. We also see ultra-modern design along the skyline and in the whimsical creations of the Gardens by the Bay. Singapore is truly a melting pot of culture, style, and cuisine. This afternoon we embark National Geographic Orion.

Step ashore in the UNESCO Historical City of Malacca with its eclectic blend of Portuguese and Dutch colonialism, traditional Chinese influence, and bright colors of India. The port is packed with eye catching cycle trishaws adorned with bright ruffles, hearts, flowers, and Hello Kitty—each a work of art. Explore this beautiful city known as the unofficial historical capital of Malaysia—Jonker Street, the main thoroughfare of Chinatown; Christ Church and Stadthuys, some of the oldest surviving Dutch architecture; and Melaka Sultanate Palace, a replica of Sultan Mansur Shah’s 15th-century palace.

Arrive in the seaport of Belawan—known as one of Indonesia’s busiest ports, second only to Java. Pass through the city of Medan with its chaotic energy of modern-day trade and ties to the architecture of the past when Chinese and Dutch merchants settled here. Head inland to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Gunung Leuser National Park. The entire biosphere covers a vast area of rainforest and other varied ecosystems. It is home to hundreds of species of mammals, birds, reptiles, and plants: orangutan, gibbons, elephant, hornbills, Sumatran partridge, monitor lizards, and the biggest flower in the world—Rafflesia Arnoldi (the corpse flower or giant padma). Wildlife sightings are never predictable, but this stunning biosphere never disappoints with its mind-blowing variety.

Enjoy a full day of adventure in Penang Island’s capital, George Town. Vibrant and colorful, this UNESCO multicultural city is a mix of colonial history of the first British settlement in Southeast Asia and modern day skyscrapers. A beautiful jumble of temples, mosques, and the Clan Jetties—wooden stilt houses built by the Chinese who settled on the water. Follow the “art trail” that weaves its way past amazing murals tucked on side streets and painted directly on old buildings. Explore the boardwalk trails and canopy of Penang National Park. It may be the smallest national park in the world, but it is packed with lush jungle, beautiful beaches, monkeys, and birds of every color. Or choose to immerse yourself in the fragrant herbs and spices grown in the Tropical Spice Garden, the cornerstone of some of the best food in Asia.

Known as the Jewel of Kedah, Langkawi boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in Malaysia—white sand and crystal water stretch for miles. Kayak among the karst outcroppings, fringed by healthy mangroves and lush rainforest jungle.
Be on the lookout for the white-bellied sea eagle, Brahminy kite, and kingfishers in stunning plumage. Head to the sky on the Langkawi Cable Car, and glide over cliffs, jungle, and Telaga Tujuh (Seven Wells) waterfall. Once at the top, enjoy the views from the skybridge and explore the boardwalk trails into the jungle.

The first national marine park of Thailand, Tarutao offers some of the most beautiful coastline on the Andaman Sea. Explore the underwater world where the clear waters support healthy coral reefs and the wide array of life that call this region home. Be on the lookout for the elusive and rare dugong, irrawaddy dolphin, and hundreds of brightly colored fish. Head inland on one of the many white sandy beaches in search of crab-eating macaques, otters, common palm civets, flying bats, and a multitude of birds: scarlet-breasted flowerpecker, pied thrillers, grey-headed sea eagles, and more.

Today begins off the coast of the small, pristine gem—Ko Rok Noi. Fringed with a healthy shallow reef system, this bit of paradise offers a morning of exploration both above and below the pristine waters. Snorkel and dive this unspoiled paradise or choose to take a leisurely kayak paddle or stand-up paddleboard along the rocky coastline, with a clear view below the surface. Follow the white sandy beach into the jungle and the beauty of Koh Rok waterfall. Enjoy lunch on deck as the ship positions to Ko Lanta, the largest island in the marine reserve, where we continue explorations above and below the sea.

A small archipelago of six islands known as Koh Phi Phi lies just off the coast of Krabi province. Postcard visions of spectacular karst formations, clear turquoise waters, and brightly painted long tail boats are found on these shores. Enjoy Zodiac cruises along the high cliffs and through the mangroves; snorkel or scuba dive the vibrant reefs; view the ancient rock art of Tham Phaya Nak, Viking Cave; or walk a deserted white sand beach in quiet reflection—the choices are endless.

Wake up this morning in Phuket province, the largest in Thailand. After breakfast, disembark and explore Old Phuket Town. As a center of trade, see the influences of the Chinese, Indian, and European merchants who settled here. Following a traditional lunch, transfer to the airport for flights homeward.