Singapore to Mumbai

The main island of Singapore is shaped like a flattened diamond, 42 km (26 miles) east to west and 23 km (14 miles) north to south. Near the northern peak is the causeway leading to West Malaysia—Kuala Lumpur is less than four hours away by car. It is at the southern foot where you will find most of the city-state’s action, with its gleaming office towers, working docks, and futuristic "supertrees," which are solar-powered and serve as vertical gardens. Offshore are Sentosa and over 60 smaller islands, most uninhabited, that serve as bases for oil refining or as playgrounds and beach escapes from the city. To the east is Changi International Airport, connected to the city by metro, bus, and a tree-lined parkway. Of the island's total land area, more than half is built up, with the balance made up of parkland, farmland, plantations, swamp areas, and rain forest. Well-paved roads connect all parts of the island, and Singapore city has an excellent, and constantly expanding, public transportation system. The heart of Singapore's history and its modern wealth are in and around the Central Business District. The area includes the skyscrapers in the Central Business District, the 19th-century Raffles Hotel, the convention centers of Marina Square, on up to the top of Ft. Canning. Although most of old Singapore has been knocked down to make way for the modern city, most colonial landmarks have been preserved in the CBD, including early-19th-century buildings designed by the Irish architect George Coleman.

Advanced, airy and elevated, Singapore is a spectacular, futuristic vision of utopian city life. A healthy population of almost six million call it home, but this is a city designed with space to breathe, and gorgeous outdoor parks, massive indoor greenhouses and beautiful recreational spaces spread between the City of Gardens' skyscrapers and soaring structures. Once a quiet fishing village, now a glistening island city-state and an international beacon of science, education and technology. Singapore is almost intimidatingly clean - and the hyper-efficient public transport system whips residents and visitors across the city's neighbourhoods in a heartbeat. Glorious fountains and audacious skyscrapers loom up - nodding to traditional feng shui beliefs - and putting on dazzling illuminated displays after dark. The lush green botanical gardens are a spectacular UNESCO World Heritage Site, covering 52 hectares and decorated with impressive colourful orchids. Or breathe in more of the freshest air by heading up to wander the canopy strung bridges of MacRitchie Reservoir Park. Head for the iconic Marina Bay - a landmark of the city crowned by three interconnected towers, which watch out over island sprinkled waters. Jaunt between Little India and the atmospheric Chinatown in minutes, where beautiful temples - like the Chinese Thian Hock Keng Temple and Hindu Sri Mariamman Temple add rich cultural intrigue. Singapore's cuisine is a mouthwatering fusion of its Indian, Chinese, Indonesian, and Malay influences, taking and enhancing the best of each. Enjoy dishes in towering restaurants, or toast the glowing skyline with the city's eponymous gin-soaked cocktail - a Singapore Sling.

The main island of Singapore is shaped like a flattened diamond, 42 km (26 miles) east to west and 23 km (14 miles) north to south. Near the northern peak is the causeway leading to West Malaysia—Kuala Lumpur is less than four hours away by car. It is at the southern foot where you will find most of the city-state’s action, with its gleaming office towers, working docks, and futuristic "supertrees," which are solar-powered and serve as vertical gardens. Offshore are Sentosa and over 60 smaller islands, most uninhabited, that serve as bases for oil refining or as playgrounds and beach escapes from the city. To the east is Changi International Airport, connected to the city by metro, bus, and a tree-lined parkway. Of the island's total land area, more than half is built up, with the balance made up of parkland, farmland, plantations, swamp areas, and rain forest. Well-paved roads connect all parts of the island, and Singapore city has an excellent, and constantly expanding, public transportation system. The heart of Singapore's history and its modern wealth are in and around the Central Business District. The area includes the skyscrapers in the Central Business District, the 19th-century Raffles Hotel, the convention centers of Marina Square, on up to the top of Ft. Canning. Although most of old Singapore has been knocked down to make way for the modern city, most colonial landmarks have been preserved in the CBD, including early-19th-century buildings designed by the Irish architect George Coleman.

Advanced, airy and elevated, Singapore is a spectacular, futuristic vision of utopian city life. A healthy population of almost six million call it home, but this is a city designed with space to breathe, and gorgeous outdoor parks, massive indoor greenhouses and beautiful recreational spaces spread between the City of Gardens' skyscrapers and soaring structures. Once a quiet fishing village, now a glistening island city-state and an international beacon of science, education and technology. Singapore is almost intimidatingly clean - and the hyper-efficient public transport system whips residents and visitors across the city's neighbourhoods in a heartbeat. Glorious fountains and audacious skyscrapers loom up - nodding to traditional feng shui beliefs - and putting on dazzling illuminated displays after dark. The lush green botanical gardens are a spectacular UNESCO World Heritage Site, covering 52 hectares and decorated with impressive colourful orchids. Or breathe in more of the freshest air by heading up to wander the canopy strung bridges of MacRitchie Reservoir Park. Head for the iconic Marina Bay - a landmark of the city crowned by three interconnected towers, which watch out over island sprinkled waters. Jaunt between Little India and the atmospheric Chinatown in minutes, where beautiful temples - like the Chinese Thian Hock Keng Temple and Hindu Sri Mariamman Temple add rich cultural intrigue. Singapore's cuisine is a mouthwatering fusion of its Indian, Chinese, Indonesian, and Malay influences, taking and enhancing the best of each. Enjoy dishes in towering restaurants, or toast the glowing skyline with the city's eponymous gin-soaked cocktail - a Singapore Sling.

Kuala Lumpur, or KL as locals refer to it, intrigues visitors with its diversity and multicultural character. The city's old quarter features stretches of shop houses that hint at its colonial past, while modern buildings—including the iconic Petronas Towers—give a glimpse of its modern financial ambitions. The city is filled with culturally colorful quarters dedicated to Chinese, Malay, and Indian communities. New shopping malls with designer labels, five-star hotels, and top-notch restaurants also proliferate in this bustling city of 1.6 million.

Towered over by the world's most famous architectural siblings - the Petronas Twin Towers - Kuala Lumpur is a staggering melting pot of influences. These twin towers stand 451 metres over the city and bathe in bright lights as night's cloak descends. The glittering skyline mingles with colonial architecture and ornate temples, which decorate lush hillsides around the city. Haggle your way through humming markets, visit cultural treasures and historic sites, and dive headfirst into this city, where tradition collides head-on with modernity. The capital of Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, is a multicultural metropolis of lively markets and tongue-tantalising street food. Globe-trot between different streets and influences in minutes, as you discover diverse architectural treasures all over the city. Evenings are spent shopping in air-conditioned malls and bustling streets filled with sprawling outdoor markets. Fill up on fragrant coconut rice of nasi lemak and sink ice-cold beers to soak up the lively atmosphere. Malaysia achieved independence in Merdeka Square in 1957, when the Union Jack was lowered, and Malaysia’s flag was hoisted high into the sky. One of Malaysia’s most visited attractions is Batu Caves, an awe-inspiring, colourful journey into a sacred void in these immense limestone cliffs. Huge statues tower over the brightly-hued steps, as you climb to the unique cave temple, in this most dramatic of locations. The golden onion dome of the National Palace, Istana Negara, is a spectacular sight, where horses clop and white-robed soldiers wait patiently. Look for the Malaysian flag fluttering before it – if it’s present, the King and Queen of Malaysia are in residence.

Though few tourists linger here, Phuket Town, the provincial capital, is one of the more culturally interesting places on the island to spend half a day. About one-third of the island's population lives here, and the town is an intriguing mix of old Sino-Portuguese architecture and the influences of the Chinese, Muslims, and Thais that inhabit it. The old Chinese quarter along Talang Street is especially good for a stroll, as its history has not yet been replaced by modern concrete and tile. And this same area has a variety of antiques shops, art studios, and trendy cafés. Besides Talang, the major thoroughfares are Ratsada, Phuket, and Ranong roads. Ratsada connects Phuket Road (where you'll find the Tourism Authority of Thailand office) to Ranong Road, where there's an aromatic local market filled with fruits, vegetables, spices, and meats.

Thailand’s largest island promises ocean bliss and wide beaches of indulgent opulence with some of the country’s most attractive and dreamily dramatic scenery. Head for sumptuous spas and perfect beaches or explore the streets of busy Phuket Town which hum with markets lively celebrations and an endless chorus of whirring scooters. Phang Nga Bay National Park is a nearby treasure - a remarkable landscape of towering limestone karst. The iconic rock formations are breathlessly beautiful encased by theatrical inlets and incredible greenery-clad rock formations. Heavenly beaches - where the sun dips to paint vibrant pink and red streaks across the skies - offer intense relaxation and you can indulge in rejuvenating treatments or take it slow to enjoy cocktails and glorious sea views while swinging in a hammock. Watersport lovers can rip across the waves or glide through the air while taking part in the various adrenaline-pumping activities on offer. Speedboat tours give you the chance to feel the salty whip of the air in your hair as you whizz between secluded islands and visit authentic stilted villages teetering out over the beautiful waters. Tuck into a delicious fusion of Thai food - think crab curry and tom yum goong’s sweet and sour prawns – to ensure this sensory journey delights your taste buds too. Lavish temples Chinese shrines and giant Buddha statues add another layer of cultural depth.

Trincomalee has one of the largest natural harbors in the world. Because of this several European nations fought over Trincomalee, which was already one of the most visited places of Hindu worship. Close to Trincomalee are two UNESCO World Heritage Sites. One is the ancient city of Polonnaruwa, the former capital of the Kingdom of Polonnaruwa dating back to the 12th century with its impressive ruins and statues. The second site is Sirigiya; the city of the Rock Fortress. Sirigiya is Asia’s best-preserved city center dating back to the first millennium. A massive wall defends part of the lower city and various features have been overgrown by the forest or await excavation. At the site’s summit is the fortified palace with its ruined buildings, cisterns and rock sculptures.

Richly cultural and historic Trincomalee is surrounded by treasured sites which hark back thousands of years - and hold unprecedented cultural value. Set on the eastern coast of Sri Lanka - on the peninsula that it shares its name with - venture inland to explore some of the world's most majestic and evocative archaeological and holy sites. Or take it easy and lay back on Trincomalee's plentiful palm-lined beaches. Boat tours can take you out to cruise among dolphins and whales or to the reefs of Pigeon Island. A swirl of colonial houses temples and mosques line the multi-cultural streets of this fascinating destination. Live like a local and start the day with a steaming cup of Ceylon tea and buffalo curd for breakfast before heading out to visit extraordinary sites of ancient worship as you explore Sri Lanka's incredible UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Head inland to the jaw-dropping Golden Temple of Dambulla a vast temple dominated by a gleaming gold Buddha figure. The amazing Ancient City of Polonnaruwa dates back to the 12th century and is an unearthed treasure trove of ruins - famous for its meticulously thought out urban planning. Polonnaruwa was the second capital of Sri Lanka and you can visit the first capital at the Sacred City of Anuradhapura – a place of immense value to the Buddhist faith. The Sirigiya Rock Fortress is a jaw-dropping collaboration between man and nature and the incredible fortress sits perched above an almighty 200-metre high slab of rock.

Galle is the administrative capital of the Southern Province in Sri Lanka. The city has a beautiful tropical setting with Dutch-colonial architecture. Explore the maritime museums, try some of the delicacies and explore the shops for souvenirs.

Galle is an ancient Muslim port where different political influences from Europe have merged. In fact the Galle Fort was occupied by the Portuguese Dutch and British until the late 19th century. Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1988 it is surrounded by the sea on three sides. The surviving Dutch-colonial architecture and narrow streets exude the historic atmosphere of this living fort. The 18th century Dutch church has a splendid wooden memorial to one of the commanders of Galle while the Arab quarter has a distinctly Moorish touch.

Sri Lanka's capital and largest city, Colombo offers fine restaurants, a buzzing nightlife scene, and good museums, parks, and beautiful Buddhist temples that are all worth visiting. The beach resort of Mt. Lavinia is only a short taxi ride from the downtown area and offers a golden, sandy beach and sunset views to die for. As an exciting blur of colors and cultures, Colombo presents a neatly packaged microcosm of this island nation.

Perfumed flower garlands, colonial roots, and lavish afternoon teas welcome you to the former garden city of Colombo. Sri Lanka’s easy breezy city is certainly intoxicating, with its cinnamon dusted air, steaming cups of delicate ceylon, and sassy seaside charm. A place of full sensory immersion, explore tangled streets to sidestep frantic tuk-tuks and gaze in awe at grand colonial buildings turned heritage hotels. Cute cafes usher you inside for sweet lassi, and the walls are made for a pleasantly laxidasical pace of walking. They're perhaps most impressive on stormy days, when you can watch bruised clouds tumble and roil across the sea from this perfect vantage point. Back in the capital, stroll the ornate halls of the National Museum where gilded swords, studded masks, and rare artefacts from the ancient world and colonial times are gathered. Visit the Gangaramaya Temple, to walk among the orange-robed monks who glide between flora-strewn alters, or plunge into the chaos of Pettah - where market cries reach orchestral heights. An incredible gathering of carved Hindu gods decorate the colourful pyramid of the Captain’s Garden Kovil temple - the oldest Hindu temple in the city, which rises majestically from the surrounding railway tracks. Forever the dish of the day, crab is a must in Colombo. Sit down, tuck in your bib and use your hands to crack, scoop and suck out the soft white meat – especially delicious when smothered in lashings of garlic and fiery chilli.

Kochi, formerly and still commonly known as Cochin, is one of the west coast's largest and oldest ports. The streets behind the docks of the historic Fort Cochin and Mattancherry districts are lined with old merchant houses, godowns (warehouses), and open courtyards heaped with betel nuts, ginger, peppercorns, and tea. Throughout the second millennium this ancient city exported spices, coffee, and coir (the fiber made from coconut husks), and imported culture and religion from Europe, China, and the Middle East. Today Kochi has a synagogue, several mosques, Portuguese Catholic churches, Hindu temples, and the United Church of South India (an amalgamation of several Protestant denominations). The city is spread out over mainland, peninsula, and islands. Ernakulam, on the mainland 2 km (3 miles) from the harbor, is the commercial center and the one-time capital of the former state of Cochin. Willingdon Island, which was created by dredging the harbor, holds several luxury hotels as well as a navy base. The beautiful Bolghatty Island, north of Ernakulam, is a favorite picnic spot for locals. On it there's a government-run hotel in a colonial structure that was once used by the Dutch governor and later by the British Resident. Another local favorite is Cherai beach on Vypin Island, which is a 10-minute ferry ride from Fort Cochin. The Fort Cochin district, Kochi's historic center, is at the northern tip of the Mattancherry peninsula. Houses here often recall Tudor manors; some have been converted to hotels, others remain in the hands of the venerable tea and trading companies. South of Fort Cochin, in the Mattancherry district, is where you'll find the city's dwindling Jewish community. Their small neighborhood, called Jew Town, which is now dotted with cafés and shops selling curios and antiques, is centered on the synagogue.

A hodgepodge of cultures collide on the banks of the estuary where Cochin carves out her home. Chinese fishing nets the size of skyscrapers, boxy Dutch architecture and pretty Portuguese palaces point to the blend of influence here, while the Raj era remnants, soaring spires of old-world mosques, and near-abandoned synagogues all add to the dense, varied tapestry of inspirations and imprints. Founded by a prince in the 15th century, Cochin immediately became a favoured anchorage for sailors and traders from every far-flung corner - even taking nearby Kerala’s crown as the world's first global port city. Now, fragrant spice markets cut the hot air with cardamom and clove, while antique stores groan beneath the weight of singing copper. Hit the backstreets of Fort Kochi for a deep and dreamy Ayurvedic massage, marvel at the Krishna murals that adorn the bedchamber walls of the Mattancherry Palace, or admire India’s one of the oldest European-built Christian churches - as you duck into the cool hues of St Francis. A day can easily meander past on a backwater cruise, spreading south from Cochin, and gliding down a lacy network of creeks, lagoons, lakes and rivers. Surrounded by swaying palms and rice paddies – you’ll experience rural India in her best dress. When daylight dwindles, taste the soft spicy kick of dal roti, followed by Firni – almonds, apricots, and sweet milk crushed with pastel green pistachios for a silky light finish.

Kochi, formerly and still commonly known as Cochin, is one of the west coast's largest and oldest ports. The streets behind the docks of the historic Fort Cochin and Mattancherry districts are lined with old merchant houses, godowns (warehouses), and open courtyards heaped with betel nuts, ginger, peppercorns, and tea. Throughout the second millennium this ancient city exported spices, coffee, and coir (the fiber made from coconut husks), and imported culture and religion from Europe, China, and the Middle East. Today Kochi has a synagogue, several mosques, Portuguese Catholic churches, Hindu temples, and the United Church of South India (an amalgamation of several Protestant denominations). The city is spread out over mainland, peninsula, and islands. Ernakulam, on the mainland 2 km (3 miles) from the harbor, is the commercial center and the one-time capital of the former state of Cochin. Willingdon Island, which was created by dredging the harbor, holds several luxury hotels as well as a navy base. The beautiful Bolghatty Island, north of Ernakulam, is a favorite picnic spot for locals. On it there's a government-run hotel in a colonial structure that was once used by the Dutch governor and later by the British Resident. Another local favorite is Cherai beach on Vypin Island, which is a 10-minute ferry ride from Fort Cochin. The Fort Cochin district, Kochi's historic center, is at the northern tip of the Mattancherry peninsula. Houses here often recall Tudor manors; some have been converted to hotels, others remain in the hands of the venerable tea and trading companies. South of Fort Cochin, in the Mattancherry district, is where you'll find the city's dwindling Jewish community. Their small neighborhood, called Jew Town, which is now dotted with cafés and shops selling curios and antiques, is centered on the synagogue.

A hodgepodge of cultures collide on the banks of the estuary where Cochin carves out her home. Chinese fishing nets the size of skyscrapers, boxy Dutch architecture and pretty Portuguese palaces point to the blend of influence here, while the Raj era remnants, soaring spires of old-world mosques, and near-abandoned synagogues all add to the dense, varied tapestry of inspirations and imprints. Founded by a prince in the 15th century, Cochin immediately became a favoured anchorage for sailors and traders from every far-flung corner - even taking nearby Kerala’s crown as the world's first global port city. Now, fragrant spice markets cut the hot air with cardamom and clove, while antique stores groan beneath the weight of singing copper. Hit the backstreets of Fort Kochi for a deep and dreamy Ayurvedic massage, marvel at the Krishna murals that adorn the bedchamber walls of the Mattancherry Palace, or admire India’s one of the oldest European-built Christian churches - as you duck into the cool hues of St Francis. A day can easily meander past on a backwater cruise, spreading south from Cochin, and gliding down a lacy network of creeks, lagoons, lakes and rivers. Surrounded by swaying palms and rice paddies – you’ll experience rural India in her best dress. When daylight dwindles, taste the soft spicy kick of dal roti, followed by Firni – almonds, apricots, and sweet milk crushed with pastel green pistachios for a silky light finish.

Mumbai, India's financial capital, is a city of contrasts and colors, where towering skyscrapers stand alongside bustling bazaars. From the iconic Gateway of India to the vibrant street food scene of Chowpatty Beach, it's a melting pot of cultures and cuisines. The heartbeat of Bollywood echoes through its bustling streets, while historic landmarks like the Elephanta Caves whisper tales of bygone eras. With its bustling local trains and bustling markets, Mumbai is a city that never sleeps, where dreams are pursued against the backdrop of the Arabian Sea's shimmering waters.

A spicy destination of colour and chaos, the city formally known as Bombay is a deafening collision of contrasts and culture. Known as the City of Dreams, Mumbai is at once an economic centre, fashion hub and home for Bollywood’s world of glamour. This is the real India, and Mumbai is a city of unparalleled extremes and contradictions. Brutal poverty is rife in sprawling slums, while unimaginable wealth glares in the exuberances of the world’s most expensive private residence. A place of dazzling, overwhelming cultural experience – littered with UNESCO World Heritage sites - your only option is to dive in headfirst and immerse yourself in India’s extraordinary and enriching embrace. The Gateway of India was completed in 1924 and formed the symbolic entrance to British India. The last of the British troops passed through the landmark in 1948, as Mumbai entered the new era of independence. See remnants of the colonial past in the architecture and art deco buildings of the Colaba district – like the incredible High Victorian Gothic styled Chhatrapati Shivaji railway terminus building. Visit another World Heritage Site at the remarkable carved 7th-century Elephanta caves, which wait a short ferry ride from Mumbai Harbour. Dharavi is a unique experience and Asia’s largest slum is one of the most densely populated places in the world. It received global attention as the setting for the film Slumdog Millionaire. Take a tour for a remarkable insight into the conditions and community within the slums, which house a majority of the city’s population. Meet the people - kind and welcoming – as you buy products like handmade pottery and textiles, and experience an amazing city within a city. Elsewhere in Mumbai, visit the house where Gandhi lived - now transformed into a museum honouring his life and work.

Mumbai, India's financial capital, is a city of contrasts and colors, where towering skyscrapers stand alongside bustling bazaars. From the iconic Gateway of India to the vibrant street food scene of Chowpatty Beach, it's a melting pot of cultures and cuisines. The heartbeat of Bollywood echoes through its bustling streets, while historic landmarks like the Elephanta Caves whisper tales of bygone eras. With its bustling local trains and bustling markets, Mumbai is a city that never sleeps, where dreams are pursued against the backdrop of the Arabian Sea's shimmering waters.

A spicy destination of colour and chaos, the city formally known as Bombay is a deafening collision of contrasts and culture. Known as the City of Dreams, Mumbai is at once an economic centre, fashion hub and home for Bollywood’s world of glamour. This is the real India, and Mumbai is a city of unparalleled extremes and contradictions. Brutal poverty is rife in sprawling slums, while unimaginable wealth glares in the exuberances of the world’s most expensive private residence. A place of dazzling, overwhelming cultural experience – littered with UNESCO World Heritage sites - your only option is to dive in headfirst and immerse yourself in India’s extraordinary and enriching embrace. The Gateway of India was completed in 1924 and formed the symbolic entrance to British India. The last of the British troops passed through the landmark in 1948, as Mumbai entered the new era of independence. See remnants of the colonial past in the architecture and art deco buildings of the Colaba district – like the incredible High Victorian Gothic styled Chhatrapati Shivaji railway terminus building. Visit another World Heritage Site at the remarkable carved 7th-century Elephanta caves, which wait a short ferry ride from Mumbai Harbour. Dharavi is a unique experience and Asia’s largest slum is one of the most densely populated places in the world. It received global attention as the setting for the film Slumdog Millionaire. Take a tour for a remarkable insight into the conditions and community within the slums, which house a majority of the city’s population. Meet the people - kind and welcoming – as you buy products like handmade pottery and textiles, and experience an amazing city within a city. Elsewhere in Mumbai, visit the house where Gandhi lived - now transformed into a museum honouring his life and work.