Singapore to Dubai - 14 nights, April 2014

After a short drive to the Gateway of India, Mumbai's most famous landmark, you will board a motor launch for the hour-long trip to Elephanta Island.

Elephanta Island was named after the statue of an elephant was found near the landing area of the island. The caves date from the 8th century and house remarkable statues in bas-reliefs that unfold a story carved in stone. The guides will bring to life the panels as they elucidate stories from Indian mythology. The carvings centre on the life of Lord Shiva, The Destroyer, but the most impressive panel is that of the Trinity of Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva: The Creator, The Preserver and The Destroyer.

After your fascinating insight into the Hindu religion, the boat will return you to Mumbai, where your coach transfer will be waiting.


This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. This tour involves a considerable amount of walking on rough, rocky slopes and uneven ground with over 120 steps to climb. The steps are not steep and they are interspersed with landings, however the tour is quite strenuous. Comfortable, non-slip shoes are recommended and a sunhat and sunscreen should be worn. Video cameras are not permitted inside the caves and there is a charge for the use of video photography outside the caves.

Travel directly to Kuala Lumpur where you are free to spend the day as you please.

You may wish to visit some of the numerous attractions including Kuala Lumpar’s famed Moorish-style Railway Station. Snap a photograph of the popular clock tower at the Sultan Abdul Samad Building and see the tallest flagpole in the world, situated in Merdeka Square. There are many other sights, which are sure to catch your eye in this enchanting city.

You may also choose to visit the city’s most popular shopping centres, including Sungei Wang Plaza, Bukit Bintang Plaza and the Lot 10 Shopping Complex.

The drop-off point is Suria KLCC Shopping Mall. The escort on your coach will advise you of the designated pick-up time for your return drive to Port Kelang.


This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. Malaysian Ringgits will be required for entrance fees and at most of the shops you visit. Credit cards are accepted in most department stores. The drive from the pier to Kuala Lumpur is approximately 1½ hours. This tour is unguided and does not include meals, refreshments or entrance fees. An English speaking escort will accompany you from/to Port Kelang.

The hardship and brutality, which both Singapore and prisoners of war suffered during World War II, will never be forgotten. Your drive will take you around the main battle sites of Singapore with stops at Changi Prison Chapel, Kranji War Memorial and the Old Ford Factory War Museum.

A visit to the Changi Prison Chapel and Museum is a moving experience. During World War II, the Japanese used Changi Prison as a prisoner of war camp, holding more than 85,000 British and Australian prisoners of war in brutal captivity. The Chapel is a replica of the one built by prisoners. The Museum displays sketches and watercolours, a pair of rail spikes from the notorious Thai-Burma railway where thousands perished during its forced construction, and a quilt made by women inmates. The quilt was embroidered with the women's names and served as a signal to their male co-prisoners that they were still alive.

The Kranji War Memorial includes the graves of thousands of Allied troops. The walls are inscribed with the names of those who died in the region during World War II and a register is available for inspection.

Tucked into the hillside near Bukit Timah Hill is the Old Ford Factory War Museum. It was the site of the historic surrender of the British to the Japanese on 15 February 1942, at the end of the Battle of Singapore in World War II. Many battles were fought around the areas of the Ford Factory and it was subsequently taken over by the Japanese Imperial Army and used as its military headquarters.


This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. There is a ten minute uphill walk to the War Memorial and approximately 15 steps to reach the upper level. The terrain is mostly paved with some uneven ground in places. Your guide will distribute historical maps to accompany the commentary.

As you travel to the Fort area of Mumbai you will pass many architecturally impressive buildings, including the General Post Office; Victoria Terminus; Municipal Corporation Building; St Xavier's College and St Thomas Cathedral.

Enjoy a brief visit inside St Thomas Cathedral, Mumbai’s first Anglican church, before beginning your historic walking tour. As you stroll through parts of the Heritage Precinct, your guide will regale you with stories and facts about this bustling city. You will see and learn all about the many buildings and monuments that contribute to the special history of Mumbai. These include the ornate Flora Fountain, the gothic style Mumbai University and High Court buildings. View the unusual façades of the David Sasson Library, Jehangir Art Gallery and the Prince of Wales Museum, with its carved features and elaborate brackets.

Absorb the local culture around you as the horns blare out from the passing traffic and spicy aromas waft from the food stalls. Watch the locals rushing about their daily activities and the ladies with their colourful clothing. As you reach the waterfront, you will notice the imposing Gateway of India. This famous monument, erected to commemorate the visit of King George V, combines both Hindu and Muslim architecture. You will have time to take a photograph before boarding the coach for your journey back to the ship.


This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. There will be approximately 1½ hours of walking over some uneven ground. Flat, comfortable, enclosed shoes, water, sunscreen and a sun hat are recommended.

The tour commences with a drive along Sheikh Zayed Road to reach the iconic Burj Al Arab, currently the world’s tallest water-based, all-suite hotel. Continue to Jumeirah, the picturesque residential area of Dubai that is home to modern-day palaces as well as the famous Jumeirah Mosque, a superb example of Islamic architecture and one of Dubai’s most photographed monuments.

Enjoy some refreshment at a local restaurant before driving to Al Bastakiya, the old part of Dubai. See the beautifully preserved old merchants’ homes with their ‘Barajeels,’ wind towers that served to cool homes during the hot summers before the advent of electricity and air-conditioning.

Your fascinating journey culminates with a short drive to the twin city of Deira via an underwater tunnel to visit the most famous landmark of Dubai – the Gold Souk.



This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. There is approximately one hour of intermittent walking over flat and mostly paved surfaces. The order of highlights may vary due to the Souk opening times.

A short drive brings you to the city wharf along the Deira bank of Dubai Creek where a charming Arabian Dhow awaits. As you step aboard the traditionally designed vessel, you are sure to be delighted by the modern and comfortable interior.

Immerse yourself in the atmosphere, as soft Arabic music fills the air on deck coupled with the gently lapping waters of the Dubai Creek. Enjoy refreshments of house wine, beer and regular brand spirits, along with a selection of Arabic canapés as you glide past some of Dubai’s inspiring heritage sites, souks, banks and palaces. Sit back, relax and take in the wonderful evening atmosphere onboard the traditional wooden Dhow, whilst taking advantage of the renowned Arabian hospitality.

After the Dhow cruise, you will have time to shop in the most famous landmark of Dubai – the Gold Souk.


This excursion will operate by coach and wooden Dhow. There are approximately four steps to board the Dhow and ten steep steps inside the Dhow from the lower deck to upper deck. There is a ten minute walk from the Gold Souk to the coach parking area.

Embark on a drive around Colombo, Sri Lanka’s vibrant capital. Although Colombo is a fast growing city its old world charm is still evident as you pass the 100-year-old clock tower, several British built, colonial buildings and the colourful bazaar of the Pettah. Continuing on through the Fort area, which houses the Government and Mercantile Offices, you’ll notice the buildings are newer.

Your journey will take you past ornate Muslim Mosques, Hindu Temples, Christian Churches and Buddhist Temples. A stop will be made at the Asokaramaya Buddhist Temple. At over 100 years old, it is known for its spectacular murals of early 20th century Buddhist art.

After your visit to the temple, you’ll stop for refreshments at a local hotel before commencing your drive around the residential areas where you find the stately homes of the affluent, the Bandaranayake Memorial International Conference and University of Colombo. A stop will be made at Independence Square for photographs.

Before returning to the port, you’ll visit the Colombo National Museum. Housed in a grand colonial building, the National Museum is the custodian of Sri Lanka's cultural heritage. Among its exhibits are a vast collection of books, more than 4,000 archaic palm leaf manuscripts, rock sculptures from the ancient cities, royal weapons of Sri Lankan kings and an excellent collection of antique demon masks. The most interesting among the exhibits are the regalia of the Kandian Kings dating back to the 17th century.


This excursion will operate by coach. Please refer to the ‘Important Information’ for this port. Approximately 30 minutes is spent inside the museum and there is a fee to photograph ($3 USD) or video ($20 USD). There are around five steps at the temple and museum.

Your scenic drive takes you past impressive local developments, before stopping to photograph Kings Palace; the official residence of His Majesty the King of Malaysia. Capture the beautifully landscaped gardens that surround the palace, and take a moment to enjoy the tranquil atmosphere.

Continue to the National Monument, which was designed by Felix De Weldon, the architect of the famous Iwo Jima Memorial. This huge bronze monument was built to pay tribute to the valiant soldiers who gave their lives defending the country during the communist insurgency in the 1950’s.

Pass by the National Mosque and the Old Railway Station before arriving at Independence Square, where the charming mock-Tudor structure of the British Royal Selangor Club still remains. Other remarkable buildings viewed are the Sultan Abdul Samad Building, which served as the government administration centre during the British era, and the Cathedral of Saint Mary The Virgin.

Your final photograph stop is at the magnificent Petronas Twin Towers, the world’s tallest building until 2003.


This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. This tour usually operates over lunch, therefore a hearty breakfast is recommended. The drive to Kuala Lumpur takes approximately 1½ hours, depending on traffic. There is approximately 45 minutes of walking involved in this tour. Comfortable, non-slip shoes are recommended. The order of highlights may vary.

This walking tour takes you into the heart of Chinatown with its covered street bazaars. Hidden behind the Central Market, you will find the small Sze Yah Chinese Temple, one of the oldest in Kuala Lumpur. Enjoy the peace and tranquillity, before visiting the bustling Central Arts and Crafts Market.

Discover the colourful Sri Mariamman Hindu Temple, one of the most ornate and elaborate in the country. The decoration incorporates intricate carvings, gold embellishments and hand painted motifs. View the picturesque, Jamek Mosque, with its onion domes and red and white striped minarets.

After a demonstration on the preparation of the popular 'Teh Tarik' drink and roti canai or pancakes, continue your journey by coach through the heart of the city for a photograph stop at the famous Petronas Twin Towers.

Enjoy a Malay buffet luncheon before visiting the KL Tower, one of the most prominent and distinctive landmarks of the country. Standing at over 1300 feet, it is the fourth tallest communication tower in the world that offers a spectacular view of Kuala Lumpur from the observation deck.


This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. Guests should dress conservatively for the visits to the temples and wear comfortable, non-slip walking shoes. Total walking time will be approximately three hours. The order of the itinerary may vary. We recommend you take some water with you to keep hydrated during your walk as it can get very hot. The drive to Kuala Lumpur will take approximately 1½ hours, depending on traffic.

The state of the art Yas Marina circuit hosted UAE’s first ever Abu Dhabi Grand Prix in 2009 that was won by Red Bull’s Sebastian Vetel. On arrival, you will be assisted in completing the registration process before beginning your exciting tour. Enjoy panoramic vistas as the tour takes in the North Grandstand offering captivating views over the circuit and neighbouring Ferrari World Theme Park.

Pass by the Driving Academy before entering the region's most advanced global communication Media Centre. Should the day's events allow, you'll also have an opportunity to visit the adrenalin-fuelled Race Control Centre for an incredible photo opportunity of the starting grid, finishing line and podium. Continue past the Pit Garages and F1 Team Villas after which you will finally head back past the solar-powered VIP Shams Tower en route to the welcome centre where there will be time to browse and purchase souvenirs of your visit.


This excursion will operate by minibus and on foot. There is approximately 45 minutes of intermittent walking on this tour over flat surfaces, with 50 small steps at the Grandstand.

Your leisurely drive will take you along the panoramic Corniche (beach front) of the UAE’s capital city to reach the breakwater for a picture postcard view of the ‘Manhattan of the Middle East’.

Continue to the 6 star Emirates Palace Hotel whose opulence and subtle elegance will dazzle you. As you make your way to a private area reserved for your tour group, breathe in the air of sheer luxury that fills this unique and elegant hotel. Enjoy a delicious tea service including a variety of savoury and sweet items with time afterwards to stroll around the retail outlets in the lobby and admire the exquisite craftsmanship and sheer scale of the hotel’s architecture.


This excursion will operate by coach. There is minimal walking on this tour.

Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage is an orphanage and breeding ground for wild elephants. It was established in 1975 by the Department of Wildlife Conservation on a 25-acre coconut plantation on the Maha Oya River. The orphanage, which began with five baby elephants, was originally founded to afford care and protection to the many orphaned elephants found in the jungle. Today some of these orphans have lived to see their grandchildren born in the same location.

The aim of the orphanage is to simulate the natural world. However, there are some exceptions: the elephants are taken to the river twice daily for a bath, and all the babies under three years of age are still bottle fed by the mahouts and volunteers.

This elephant orphanage is also now a breeding place for elephants. More than 23 elephants have been born since 1984, and the orphanage has the largest herd of captive elephants in the world. While most of the elephants are healthy, one is blind, and one, named Sama, has lost her front right leg to a land mine.

During your visit to the orphanage, you will be able to watch as the elephants bathe and play in the river before enjoying a buffet luncheon in the Pinnalanda Restaurant overlooking the scenic river.


This excursion will operate by coach. The journey time is approximately 2½ hours each way. There is around 2½ hours spent at the orphanage. There is a $5 fee for video cameras. Comfortable footwear is recommended. There are several steps to reach the viewing platform and a 200 yard walk over uneven ground between the bathing area and feeding area. Please remember to carry US$ for any additional purchases.

Set in a lush rainforest environment, Singapore Zoo offers the opportunity to experience and be inspired by the wonders of nature. Home to over 2,500 specimens from 316 species, 36% of which are threatened, the Zoo has attained a strong reputation internationally for its conservation initiatives and breeding programmes. The animals include the beautiful rare white tigers, lions, zebra, giraffe, polar bears, leopards, white rhino, baboons, crocodiles and the Komodo dragon.

On arrival at the Zoo, you’ll be taken to the unusual setting of the Wild Restaurant. As you enjoy a delicious buffet breakfast you can watch the magnificent Orang-utans as they interact with each other. If you wish you can even have your photograph taken with them.

After breakfast, you have around two hours to explore this fascinating parkland. The Zoo is a model of the ‘open zoo’ concept so the animals are not caged but instead roam free in spacious, landscaped enclosures which emulate their natural habitat. The animals are separated from visitors by moats concealed by vegetation or, in the case of dangerous animals, glass panes which allow you to get in close proximity without the risk.

There is so much to see and do including animal feedings, animal shows and watching the elephants bathing.


This excursion will operate by coach, tram and on foot. Please check on arrival at the Zoo for details of the animal shows and feeding times. The tour is unguided therefore walking is at guests’ own discretion. The terrain is mostly flat and there is a wheelchair accessible tram which runs continuously around the zoo. Guests with limited mobility can rent a motorised scooter for SIN$35 (payable on arrival). Around 90% of the Zoo is wheelchair accessible. Comfortable walking shoes, insect repellent, bottled water and sunscreen are recommended.

This scenic 25-minute helicopter flight provides a unique, bird’s-eye-view of the extensive new developments of Dubai. See highlights such as the iconic Burj Al Arab as well as Palm Jumeirah, one of the three largest man-made islands in the world. You will also have the opportunity to grasp the full symbolism of another astonishing project, a cluster of 300 islands reclaimed along Dubai’s coast, collectively known as ‘The World’ islands.

Fly over Dubai Marina, the world’s largest man-made marina then photograph Burj Khalifa, which at over 2,600 feet tall is presently the tallest structure in the world. Fly over scenic Jumeirah Beach and the bustling Sheikh Zayed Road before making happy landings after a memorable experience.


This excursion will operate by minibus and helicopter. Seatbelts must be worn at all times when inside the aircraft, there will be a safety briefing prior to take off. There are two seats in the middle of the helicopter so not all guests will have a window seat. This tour will not run in the event of poor visibility and sandstorms. There is an overall weight limit for the helicopter which must not be exceeded for safety reasons, therefore you may be contacted on board to ensure the regulations are met.

Admire panoramic views of Abu Dhabi as you drive along the glittering tower-lined Corniche (sea front) en route passing Itihad Square, adorned with outsized symbols of Arabian hospitality. Reaching the 6 star Emirates Palace Hotel stop for photosgraphs.

Marina Mall is located on the picturesque breakwater along the Corniche where you have some free time to browse the shops. A leisurely drive will take you to the wharf where you will board an Arabian dhow (traditional wooden boat). Enjoy a relaxing hour long cruise as you take in vistas of the ‘Manhattan of the Middle East’. Glide gently past well-known landmarks and admire the historical monuments, lush green parks and luxury malls as a selection of light refreshments and non alcoholic beverages are served en route.

This excursion will operate by coach and dhow. There are 20 small steps at Marina Mall and ten steep steps in the dhow between decks and the amount of walking is optional at the Mall.