Published on November 29, 2017
Kampong Glam, Singapore. Image courtesy of the Singapore Tourism Board.
What You'll Get
This 18 day/17 night epic tour of Southeast Asia covers the region's most snap-happy spots: selfie your way through Singapore; Kuala Lumpur in Malaysia; Hanoi, Ha Long Bay and Ho Chi Minh City in Viet Nam; and Pattaya and Bangkok in Thailand.
Highlights
If you have 18 days to spare, take on this trip of epic proportions: you'll begin in Singapore, time-travel through Kuala Lumpur, Hanoi, and Ho Chi Minh City, and take in the great views from Ha Long Bay and Pattaya. Take on each of the following destinations in turn –
Singapore: one of Southeast Asia's most forward-looking cities offers a number of surprises – from Southeast Asia's first zoo for nocturnal animals, the Singapore Night Safari; to the ultra-modern Gardens by the Bay housing thousands of plants from ecosystems around the world (the scenic SuperTrees are a must-see); to its city streets combining colonial British architecture with the most cutting-edge building designs in the world.
Kuala Lumpur: Malaysia's capital offers a whirlwind view of history and culture with tours through its historic city center (combining century-old architecture and iconic new buildings like the Petronas Twin Towers), best seen on a night tour that concludes with a buffet dinner and cultural show; and visits to the countryside.
Hanoi: The Vietnamese capital is a stepping stone to a number of historical and natural wonders, from Hoa Lu Ancient Capital to the scenic Bich Dong Pagoda to the romantic Trang An Grottoes.
Ha Long Bay: rain and tides have carved the local karst landscape into something approaching a fevered fantasy – gently curving islands jut out of the sea, marked by caves, coves and towering spires – you'll enjoy the view while cruising through these waters.
Ho Chi Minh City: formerly the capital of half of a divided nation, its attractions still hearken back to its colonial days – buildings in the city center like the Notre Dame Cathedral, General Post office, and City Hall; the Cu Chi Tunnel network outside the city; and the Mekong River delta, where Vietnamese traditional life goes on around the canals and nearby Thai Son Island.
Pattaya: this resort town has plenty to recommend it beyond its beaches: orchids at the Nong Nooch Tropical Garden; boat-hopping to the nearby islands of Koh Larn (Coral Island) and its amazing marine landscape; and the gorgeous Alcazar cabaret show.
Finally, Bangkok: an experience worthy of a royal capital awaits – kicking off your tour with a dinner cruise down the Chao Phraya River, you'll spend a few days exploring highlights like the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market, Safari World & Marine Park, and the Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew.
Bridge over Hoan Kiem Lake, Hanoi, Viet Nam. Image courtesy of the Viet Nam Administration of Tourism.
