Asia: Indonesia & Malaysia

Explore a compact, fascinating city-state that’s truly global. A onetime British trading post, its diverse past is reflected everywhere, from its old Chinese quarter and colourful Hindu temples to its modern skyscrapers and common language, English. Take a short cruise along the Singapore River or a pedicab ride through town, or enjoy the quiet at the National Orchid Garden. Interested in Asian medicine? A special medicinal restaurant can prescribe just the menu to help you feel your best.

The diverse capital of Malaysia blends colonial, Islamic and modern architecture, from the soaring Petronas Towers to the beautiful Masjid Jamek, once Kuala Lumpur’s main mosque. Get a bird’s eye view of the city from the open-air observation deck of the Kuala Lumpur Tower, the highest point in the city open to the public. Head to the air-conditioned Central Market to browse its stalls and shops for all kinds of souvenirs, with no bargaining necessary.

Known as “The Pearl of the Orient,” this island’s rainforest and waterfall-clad mountains form the backdrop to its beautiful, sandy beaches. The capital’s George Town Historic District, a wonderful mix of elaborate colonial homes, Chinese heritage buildings and temples, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The sprawling Kek Lok Si Temple, with a 100-foot pagoda and gardens, overlooks George Town, and is a great spot for photos. Penang’s abundant street eats will tempt foodies.

Langkawi’s appeal extends from sea level to its hilly interior. Kilim Karst Geoforest Park with its boat tour of mangrove forests, bat caves and floating restaurants, is a leading attraction. Adrenaline seekers can take a walk 2,300 feet above sea level on the Langkawi Sky Bridge and enjoy the amazing view of the surrounding rain forests and nearby islands. If sea level is more your level, relaxing on Cenang Beach or some duty-free shopping in Kuah Town may be just your thing.

Experience the many facets of Phuket, from its gorgeous beaches, to its 19th century Chinese and Western architecture and stunning Buddhist temples. Wat Chalong with its lovely pagoda, and Wat Phra Thong, revered for its huge golden Buddha statue, are must-sees. Explore the breathtaking Phang Nga National Park, made famous by the James Bond film The Man with the Golden Gun. If it is shopping you seek, bright silks, teak carvings and trinkets will satisfy many a shopping list.

Experience the many facets of Phuket, from its gorgeous beaches, to its 19th century Chinese and Western architecture and stunning Buddhist temples. Wat Chalong with its lovely pagoda, and Wat Phra Thong, revered for its huge golden Buddha statue, are must-sees. Explore the breathtaking Phang Nga National Park, made famous by the James Bond film The Man with the Golden Gun. If it is shopping you seek, bright silks, teak carvings and trinkets will satisfy many a shopping list.

The cultural cornucopia of Jakarta is an experience unlike any other. Central Medan Merdeka is home to the National Monument, a marble obelisk with an observation deck that lets you look out upon the Indonesian capital and the massive Istiqlal mosque below. Visit Kota Tua, the old town filled with Dutch colonial buildings, or stop by Glodok, the local Chinatown. For a taste of Indonesian culture, Taman Mini Indonesia Indah park recreates traditional homes and holds performances. Then make your way to the antique market at Jalan Surabaya for a keepsake to bring home from your journey.

Journey to the Javanese jungle and discover the temple of Borobudur, the world’s largest Buddhist temple (and a UNESCO World Heritage Site). Venture further to the Dieng Plateau to explore stunning scenery, volcanic vents and 8th century Hindu temples. Try out your negotiating skills on the street vendors and get a bargain on jewellery, bags, sarongs and other crafts. Celebrate your win over spicy dishes of vegetables, fruits, meat and fish. And don’t forget to touch the foot of a Buddha for luck before you leave.

Surabaya is a bustling port city on the island of Java with a stunning combination of modern and colonial architecture. Visit the Heroes Monument that commemorates the Battle of Surabaya and stop by the 10th November Museum inside. Step inside some local industrial history at the House of Sampoerna tobacco museum. For an easy ride to panoramic views of the city, stop by the Al-Akbar Mosque to ride the elevator to the top of its minaret.

This exquisite island is known for terraced rice fields, beautiful beaches and volcanic mountains. Its lush countryside is home to iconic stone temples and mischievous monkeys. Historic sites like the Cliffside Uluwatu Temple mesmerize visitors. Soak up the atmosphere of villages filled with beautiful arts and crafts. From scenic vistas to cultural performances, there’s bound to be something to invigorate your mind and body.

This exquisite island is known for terraced rice fields, beautiful beaches and volcanic mountains. Its lush countryside is home to iconic stone temples and mischievous monkeys. Historic sites like the Cliffside Uluwatu Temple mesmerize visitors. Soak up the atmosphere of villages filled with beautiful arts and crafts. From scenic vistas to cultural performances, there’s bound to be something to invigorate your mind and body.