Asia: India, Malaysia & Sri Lanka

Explore a compact, fascinating city-state that’s truly global. A onetime British trading post, its diverse past is reflected everywhere, from its old Chinese quarter and colourful Hindu temples to its modern skyscrapers and common language, English. Take a short cruise along the Singapore River or a pedicab ride through town, or enjoy the quiet at the National Orchid Garden. Interested in Asian medicine? A special medicinal restaurant can prescribe just the menu to help you feel your best.

The diverse capital of Malaysia blends colonial, Islamic and modern architecture, from the soaring Petronas Towers to the beautiful Masjid Jamek, once Kuala Lumpur’s main mosque. Get a bird’s eye view of the city from the open-air observation deck of the Kuala Lumpur Tower, the highest point in the city open to the public. Head to the air-conditioned Central Market to browse its stalls and shops for all kinds of souvenirs, with no bargaining necessary.

Experience the many facets of Phuket, from its gorgeous beaches, to its 19th century Chinese and Western architecture and stunning Buddhist temples. Wat Chalong with its lovely pagoda, and Wat Phra Thong, revered for its huge golden Buddha statue, are must-sees. Explore the breathtaking Phang Nga National Park, made famous by the James Bond film The Man with the Golden Gun. If it is shopping you seek, bright silks, teak carvings and trinkets will satisfy many a shopping list.

This cosmopolitan, Portuguese-founded city is an unlikely blend of lovely colonial architecture, Dutch-style palaces, ancient mosques, a 400-year-old synagogue, giant Chinese fishing nets and the crumbling remains of the British Raj. Its rural canals are lined with ancient villages, paddy fields, market places and temples. Sample the varied and spicy dishes of Kerala and take home some Indian cotton goods made in traditional fashion.

Located on the southwestern coast of India, Mangalore is a city of many temples: The Kadri Manjunath and Kudroli Gokarnath temples are top destinations. If the beach calls you, Surathkal and Tannirbavi both stand out. Back in town, see a traditional south Indian dance performance or perhaps encounter a festival honoring a local deity. Culinary daredevils will relish the fiery meat and seafood curries, then cool off your tongue with local ice cream at the Ideals parlor – Gadbad is a favourite.

With a uniquely singular style among Indian cities, this marvelous old Portuguese and Hindu city studded with vibrant temples and majestic churches is a meld of cultures. Goa boasts a stunning Baroque cathedral completed in 1619, the Sé Catedral. Portuguese rule over Goa lasted 450 years, and its legacy remains strong in quaint, colourful Panjim. Sun worshipers will want to head to one of the area’s exquisite beaches. The local Goan cuisine, a hybrid of colonial and local flavours, is a highlight.

Mumbai, formerly Bombay, is a feast for the senses. The intricate, tranquil Shree Siddhivinayak temple draws the faithful and the merely curious alike. The Mount Mary Church, the Hanging Gardens and the Gandhi Memorial Museum are popular sites. The colonial-era Victoria Station, one of Mumbai’s grand buildings, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and also a place to grab a bite. But don’t look for the name Victoria Station – it is officially called Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus, or CST for short.

Experience the blending of traditional Arab culture and modern western culture in Dubai. Gaze skyward to see the tallest building in the world, the 2,722-feet-high futuristic Burj Khalifa tower, or walk over to the impressive Jumeirah Mosque. Seek out jet-set haunts or stroll through the heart of the old city, Dubai Creek, which is home to the Dubai museum as well as the labyrinth alleyways of gold, spice and textile souks, where bargaining is part of the fun and ritual.

The world’s richest city boasts a wealth of culture, history and adventure, from the emirate’s old souks, where you can sip a fragrant Arabic coffee, to the rush of the world’s fastest rollercoaster. This 5,000-year-old metropolis is a fascinating mix of modern architecture and atmospheric back streets. Put your bargaining hat on for a friendly faceoff with the merchants at the souk to get deals on handicrafts, artwork, even spices and dried fruit for the cook back home.