Thailand & Vietnam

At first glance, this diamond-shaped island just off the coast of Malaysia gleams with modernism and commercialism, making it seem more Western than Eastern. But as you continue to discover the city-state, youll uncover the eclectic mix of cultures, religions, ancient treasures and British colonial impressions that give rise to a unique Singaporean identity. The cultural fusion is perhaps best expressed in Singapores unofficial language, Singlish, a unique patois of English, Chinese and Malay.

On a Koh Samui cruise, you might feel like you’ve discovered a hidden slice of heaven. The island is full of endless stretches of powdery sand and warm waters that shimmer in shades of turquoise, sapphire, and aquamarine hues. Aside from its blissful beaches, you’ll also discover charming fishing villages and impressive golden Buddhist temples when you visit on a cruise to Thailand. The local food scene is another highlight, with plenty of restaurants offering inventive takes on spicy Southeast Asian cuisine using fresh tropical ingredients.

Bangkok is a city of contradictions: high-rise buildings and popular clubs abound, but so do golden temples and lively street fairs. A visit to the National Museum is great for history buffs, while shoppers will love the bargains in the Banglamphu district. Klong Toey, in central Bangkok, features a highly discounted market, offering fresh eel, dried fish, and the lively smells, sights, and sounds of this waterfront-pier area.

Bangkok is a city of contradictions: high-rise buildings and popular clubs abound, but so do golden temples and lively street fairs. A visit to the National Museum is great for history buffs, while shoppers will love the bargains in the Banglamphu district. Klong Toey, in central Bangkok, features a highly discounted market, offering fresh eel, dried fish, and the lively smells, sights, and sounds of this waterfront-pier area.

Located on the edge of the Mekong Delta, this dynamic metropolis also features the ageless beauty of an ancient culture. French colonial architecture mixes with modern Asian influences, providing a diverse backdrop for the many motorbikes, scooters, pagodas, and street markets. Stroll the wide boulevards of this city, formerly known as Saigon, and visit The History Museum, which houses artifacts from two thousand years of Vietnamese history.

Nha Trang has a split personality. One takes the form of a smaller Danang – a bustling Vietnamese city humming with commerce but blessed with access to a beautiful beach. The other is a Western resort town encompassing several blocks of hotels, tourist shops, bars and international restaurants. The city is indisputably beautiful, bordered by mountains, with the beach tracing an impressive long swoop along a bay dotted with islands. Topiary and modern sculpture punctuate the immaculately manicured foreshore. Nha Trang offers plenty to keep you dazzled – from island-hopping boat trips and scuba diving, to mud baths and historic sites.

The Nguyen Dynasty founded this former capital in the 17th century on the banks of the Perfume River. Today it sits as a massive open-air museum of temples, pagodas, palaces and tombs. Explore the Imperial Citadel, then take a river cruise for a view of the Tombs of the Emperors and Thien Mu Pagoda. Pago Pago is the main settlement on Tutuila, surrounded by peaks rising out of deepwater harbor rimmed with palm-shaded beaches.

In Hanoi, the country’s captivating capital, you’ll find a blend of Parisian grace and Asian pace. Rise early to watch t’ai chi practiced at dawn near Hoan Kiem Lake, then take in the history with a visit to the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and the bustling back streets of the Old Quarter. Eventually, you’ll be enticed to visit the country’s northern provinces. Nothing can prepare you for the beauty of Halong Bay and its 2,000 limestone karsts, nor the experience of trekking around mountainous Sapa.

In Hanoi, the country’s captivating capital, you’ll find a blend of Parisian grace and Asian pace. Rise early to watch t’ai chi practiced at dawn near Hoan Kiem Lake, then take in the history with a visit to the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and the bustling back streets of the Old Quarter. Eventually, you’ll be enticed to visit the country’s northern provinces. Nothing can prepare you for the beauty of Halong Bay and its 2,000 limestone karsts, nor the experience of trekking around mountainous Sapa.

You will immediately be swept away in the boundless energy of Hong Kong. This once-sleepy harbor town has blossomed into an international trade hub, now globally renowned for its rich culture, Confucian traditions, and incredible Michelin-star rated restaurants. Before embarking on an Asia cruise from Hong Kong, don’t miss a chance to explore the city and the surrounding areas. Head to the top of the Peak Tower for a panoramic view of all of Hong Kong, then shop the Temple Street Night Market. Take an afternoon to tour the village of Lai Chi Wo, where you’ll be surrounded by banyan trees and ancient temples. End the day with comforting dim sum or a nightcap at a bustling Hong Kong speakeasy.