Singapore to Dubai

Singapore blends the contemporary splendor of a sparkling modern city with influences from throughout the Orient. Its history is one of riches and romance, spice trading and piracy, colonialism and growth. This island state has grown from a small fishing village to one of Asia’s greatest success stories. Temples, mosques and churches stand as serene reminders of the varied collection of 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 and curry along Arab Street. You will quickly come to understand why Singapore is acclaimed as the “Crossroads of the East.”

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 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 of cultures. Lively markets offer adventures for the palate, its emerging art scene adds intrigue to 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.

The Andaman Islands float like emeralds in the Bay of Bengal, with their lushly forested interiors wrapped in ribbons of golden beach. Port Blair on South Andaman Island is the archipelago’s capital, and home to the Anthropological Museum, showcasing the history of the island’s people, and the Cellular Jail, a colonial prison turned national memorial. Nearby attractions include Mount Harriet National Park, a bird watcher’s paradise, and Havelock Island, with its iconic Elephant Beach.

Hambantota is perhaps best known for its striking salt flats that run along the coast. Well-preserved colonial buildings and religious temples and shrines are all around, plus nearby Kataragama, a major pilgrimage site sacred to Buddhists, Hindus and Muslims. It is also a gateway to Yala National Park, home to crocodiles, leopards, elephants, sloth bears, peacocks and more.

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.

Spread over a series of islands interlaced by the Arabian Sea on India’s tropical Malabar Coast, Kochi (long known as Cochin) was once an important center on the ancient spice routes. Today, this uniquely cosmopolitan city reflects cultural and architectural influences of its past – Arabic, Dutch, Portuguese and British – and serves as a gateway to Kerala, home to the mountainous slopes of the Western Ghats, a region legendary for its teas, coffees, spices and wildlife.

Goa has the ability to revitalize the soul, whether one craves the energy of nightlife and zest for revelry, or the rejuvenating power of meditative yoga on an endless beach. It’s all here, from the dynamic bazaars buzzing with color and spices to the curious blend of Portuguese and Indian traditions and architecture – all celebrated with zeal and joy in Goa.

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.

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.

Khasab, a city within the Sultanate of Oman, is increasingly popular tourist with tourists. Dhow cruises showcase the inspiring scenery, calm waters are ideal for diving, and dolphins are often spotted frolicking in the sea. Stunning landscapes, high mountain peaks, a picturesque coastal route and stretches of unspoiled beaches highlight the region, while manmade wonders include an old fort that dominates the harbor which, recently restored, contains examples of traditional Omani watercraft.

Abu Dhabi is a bustling city with extraordinary sky scrapers, wide, tree-lined boulevards, and some of the most elite cultural destinations. This city is considered the wealthiest city in the world, but still retains a humble charm with its central souk and artisan hub for traditional crafts.

Home to the world’s biggest shopping mall, tallest skyscraper, and dozens of ultra-glamourous luxury hotels, Dubai is truly a modern wonder. After exploring the new sites of the city, find yourself amongst traditional winding souks and local charm.