Benoa to Singapore

Bali really is as alluring as everyone says. This island, slightly bigger than Delaware, has it all: beaches, volcanoes, terraced rice fields, forests, renowned resorts, surfing, golf, and world-class dive sites. But what sets Bali apart from other nearby tropical destinations is Balinese tradition, and villagers dedicated to celebrating it. The hundreds of temples, dances, rituals, and crafts linked to their ancient Hindu faith aren't a show for tourists, but a living, breathing culture in which visitors are warmly received by the Balinese, who cherish their own identities.

Bali. A.k.a. Island of the Gods, Land of a thousand temples or the World’s last paradise. As superlative as these monikers may sound, they do not do justice to the actual reality of the island. Bali is as good as everyone says – verdant mountains with terraced rice fields in one direction, black sand beaches in another and captivating people that will leave even the most seasoned traveller humbled. If you’re looking for a Garden of Eden that really does have it everything, Bali ticks all the boxes. The rich and diverse culture of the island is what sets Bali apart from Indonesia’s (many) other tropical paradises. The country’s estimated 10,000 Buddhist-Hindu temples, with their daily offerings of lotus flowers and fruit are testament to the gentleness of the islander’s belief. Then there is the vibrant arts and crafts scene, notably in Ubud in the centre of the island, but prolific everywhere. Ideal souvenirs to bring back range from gorgeous silver jewellery to intricate wood carvings. Additionally, do try to see a traditional dance if possible, particularly if accompanied to local gamelan music. No one could mention Bali without mentioning the food. Dishes range from elaborate meals to street food bites, but all are without exception ambrosia. Do not miss out on tasting a succulent chicken satay, betutu (apparently the King’s favourite meal) and sambal matah. But whatever you decide to discover, you can be assured of a taste sensation that will remain with you long after you have returned home.

Semarang is one of the oldest cities in Indonesia, situated on Java's north coast between the shore of the Java Sea and a small ridge of mountains. Ceded to the Dutch West India Company in 1677 by King Amangkurat I in payment of his debts, it became their headquarters and the seat of the Dutch governor of the northeast provinces. Semarang's usefulness as a port waned due to the gradual silting up of the harbor; by the 19th century, Surabaya had eclipsed Semarang as Java's premier port. With a population of over one million, a third of whom are thought to be of Chinese extraction, Semarang is the largest city in Central Java and its administrative capital. The city consists of two parts: the coastal lowland where most of the commercial activities are found; and the hilly residential area. Although more a business center than a city for tourists, Semarang serves as a popular gateway to the mountainous interior of Central Java and to fabled Borobudur.

See a wonder of the world rising from Central Java - as you encounter the majestic Borobudur Temple, the largest Buddhist monument in existence. Hidden from the world for hundreds of years, below the ash of a vast volcanic eruption, it stands in all of its restored glory, with Mount Merapi looming imposingly behind. Semarang itself mainly functions as a gateway for Borobodur, but its port was a vital one for the Dutch colonisers, and the city continues to be a bustling centre of Java life. Hang around to discover Semarang's collection of colonial churches, and the towering Avalokitesvara Pagoda, which reaches up seven tiers into the city's skies. A soaring UNESCO World Heritage Site, the sprawling Borobudur Temple covers 123 square metres of land and was completed in the 9th century. Learn of its mysteries and secrets, and of the abandonment and eruption, which would conceal it from view for hundreds of years. Built by the Syailendra dynasty – which ruled in Java for 500 years - the lotus flower-shaped temple was restored to its former glory in the 1970s and features three layers, stacked up with intricate carvings. The monuments represent key Buddhist beliefs relating to the process of attaining Nirvana. Indonesia’s largest Hindu temple also rises nearby, in the form of Prambanan Temple. Another lost UNESCO World Heritage Site, its soaring stone spires date back to the 9th century.

Semarang is one of the oldest cities in Indonesia, situated on Java's north coast between the shore of the Java Sea and a small ridge of mountains. Ceded to the Dutch West India Company in 1677 by King Amangkurat I in payment of his debts, it became their headquarters and the seat of the Dutch governor of the northeast provinces. Semarang's usefulness as a port waned due to the gradual silting up of the harbor; by the 19th century, Surabaya had eclipsed Semarang as Java's premier port. With a population of over one million, a third of whom are thought to be of Chinese extraction, Semarang is the largest city in Central Java and its administrative capital. The city consists of two parts: the coastal lowland where most of the commercial activities are found; and the hilly residential area. Although more a business center than a city for tourists, Semarang serves as a popular gateway to the mountainous interior of Central Java and to fabled Borobudur.

See a wonder of the world rising from Central Java - as you encounter the majestic Borobudur Temple, the largest Buddhist monument in existence. Hidden from the world for hundreds of years, below the ash of a vast volcanic eruption, it stands in all of its restored glory, with Mount Merapi looming imposingly behind. Semarang itself mainly functions as a gateway for Borobodur, but its port was a vital one for the Dutch colonisers, and the city continues to be a bustling centre of Java life. Hang around to discover Semarang's collection of colonial churches, and the towering Avalokitesvara Pagoda, which reaches up seven tiers into the city's skies. A soaring UNESCO World Heritage Site, the sprawling Borobudur Temple covers 123 square metres of land and was completed in the 9th century. Learn of its mysteries and secrets, and of the abandonment and eruption, which would conceal it from view for hundreds of years. Built by the Syailendra dynasty – which ruled in Java for 500 years - the lotus flower-shaped temple was restored to its former glory in the 1970s and features three layers, stacked up with intricate carvings. The monuments represent key Buddhist beliefs relating to the process of attaining Nirvana. Indonesia’s largest Hindu temple also rises nearby, in the form of Prambanan Temple. Another lost UNESCO World Heritage Site, its soaring stone spires date back to the 9th century.

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.

An island off the northwest coast of peninsular Malaysia, Penang is blessed with a multicultural history that's led to a fascinating fusion of East and West. Claimed by the British East India Company in 1786, the island's city center of Georgetown—listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site—is filled with colonial architecture, temples, and museums. The island has also attracted many Chinese immigrants, who now make up the majority of the population. On Penang you'll find an exciting mix of jungle, coast, farmland, and fishing villages, along with the country's largest Buddhist temple.

An island off the northwest coast of peninsular Malaysia, Penang is blessed with a multicultural history that's led to a fascinating fusion of East and West. Claimed by the British East India Company in 1786, the island's city center of Georgetown—listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site—is filled with colonial architecture, temples, and museums. The island has also attracted many Chinese immigrants, who now make up the majority of the population. On Penang you'll find an exciting mix of jungle, coast, farmland, and fishing villages, along with the country's largest Buddhist temple.

On Malaysia's west coast, Langkawi is an archipelago made up of 99 islands. The only real settlement is on the main island, Pulau Langkawi. This popular beach destination attracts divers from around the world to explore the sea life, and after being declared a duty-free zone back in the '80s, it has become a favorite shopping spot for visitors seeking cheap booze. You'll find sightseeing attractions—such as national parks, a cable car ride, and a large aquarium—throughout this island of lush rainforests. However, it's the long stretches of sandy beach that attract most visitors to this tropical paradise.

Jakarta is big. And we mean huge. A sprawling metropolis of over 10 million people, it’s the second most populous city in the world. It even goes by the name of the “Big Durian” – Indonesia’s answer to the Big Apple. And yet, amid all the skyscrapers, you will still find fruit sellers that have held the same spot for generations, temples that have stood for centuries and an old town that is full of the spirit of the past. Yes, Jakarta is a juxtaposition: a city that is a global business heavyweight, rife with modernity but also a city that is a melting pot of village identity and heritage that dates back to 400 BC. Located on the northwest tip of Java, the city’s placement made it one of the most important trading centres for the Sunda kingdom. Once part of the part of the 4th-century Sundanese kingdom of Tarumanagara, the initial port was built by the Portuguese in 1513, who saw Jakarta’s position as a haven on the spice routes. Dutch colonisation followed in the 17th century, who named the city Batavia – a name by which the city would be known until independence in 1949. Under Dutch reign, the city prospered; population swelled and (mainly textile) commercial opportunities abounded. Today Jakarta is a forward thinking city that has not forgotten its past, if you know where to look. Make a beeline for the Kali Besar bridge – a living reminder of the colonial era. Taman Mini Indonesia Indah represents a wonderful way to experience the magnificent archipelago of Indonesia in a single day.

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.

With a fascinating multicultural history, Malacca is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site with much to explore. It was a trading center with China, India, and Indonesia, and was at one time occupied by Arabs, Portuguese, Dutch, and British, resulting in an abundance of historical sites and an interesting local cuisine.

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.