Eastern Essence

Singapore has two main cruise terminals. Small and medium cruise ships generally dock at the Harbourfront Center on the western end of the city across from Sentosa Island. This terminal is in one big mall, and sits beside an even bigger mall, Vivocity. There is a MRT stop conveniently located here.

A new cruise terminal, Marina Bay Cruise Centre opened May 2012 accommodating bigger cruise ships. Marina South Pier MRT station provides convenient access to the city. The station is 600m away from the cruise terminal along a sheltered walkway.

Ko Samui is an idyllic, forested island with pristine beaches, but venture inland and see majestic cascading waterfalls or a plantation where monkeys harvest coconuts. Aside from its blissful beaches and lush interior, you'll also discover charming fishing villages and impressive golden Buddhist temples. Ships will anchor off Nathon and tenders guests ashore.

Top Things to Do in Ko Samui:

• visit the big Buddha known as Wat Phra Yai
• explore Angthong National Marine Park
• cool off at Nu Muang Waterfalls
• relax on Chaweng Beach

In Bangkok, the old meets the new: Skyscrapers contrast ornate Thai temples, high-end cocktail bars lie around the corner from bustling stalls of street-food vendors, and tuk tuk rickshaws pedal beside cars on the busy streets. Ships will dock in Laem Chabang about a 2 hour drive from Bangkok.

Top Things to Do in Bangkok:

• tour the Grand Palace
• shop at a floating market
• admire the Buddha at Wat Pho
• enjoy street food on Khao San Road
• view the city from Golden Mountain Temple

Laem Chabang is the main port for cruises to Bangkok, situated about 120 kilometers (75 miles) southeast of the city, typically a 1.5 to 2-hour drive depending on traffic. For those looking to explore nearby attractions, Pattaya is only 30 kilometers (18 miles) away, a quick 30-40 minute drive. Pattaya offers beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife, and cultural sites like the Sanctuary of Truth.

Ko Kood, an idyllic island in Thailand's Trat Province, is celebrated for its untouched beaches and crystal-clear waters. As one of Thailand's lesser-known gems, it offers a peaceful retreat with pristine white sands and lush tropical forests. Klong Chao Beach is a popular spot, known for its tranquil ambiance and stunning sunsets.

For those seeking adventure, the island boasts impressive waterfalls like Klong Chao and Huang Nam Keaw, perfect for a refreshing swim. Snorkelling and diving in the vibrant coral reefs reveal a diverse underwater world. With its serene environment and natural beauty, Ko Kood provides a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of more touristy destinations.

Over three decades have passed since the Vietnam War ended with the fall of Saigon. Today, the name of this bustling metropolis on the Mekong River is Ho Chi Minh City. Yet, the essence of the city, remains unchanged.

The air is filled with the cries of street hawkers and honking horns. Bicycles, motorbikes and cars fly down the boulevards at dizzying speeds. And everywhere, friendly faces and warm greetings meet you. Some popular activities while in port include riding a local pedicab through the bustling streets; visiting the vibrant markets, Chinatown and the fascinating Cu Chi tunnels.

Phu My serves as the starting point for excursions to Ho Chi Minh City, where you can explore vibrant markets, colonial architecture, and sites significant to Vietnam’s modern history, such as the War Remnants Museum and the Cu Chi Tunnels. Alternatively, the nearby Ba Ria offers a more subdued experience with traditional Vietnamese life, scenic countryside, and local markets, presenting a contrast to the urban intensity just a short drive away.

From your mooring at Ha Long Bay, travel overland approximately 2.5 hours to Vietnam's millennium-old capital, Hanoi.

Step back in time and explore the Old Quarter's narrow streets, revealing 13th-century architecture. See the traditional storytelling art of water puppetry nearby in Hoan Kiem Lake or discover the serene oasis of Ngoc Son Temple.

Indulge in Vietnamese cuisine from street food to fine dining, savouring local delights like pho and banh mi. Make sure to visit the famous Hanoi Train Street, where trains narrowly pass by as you shop and dine, adding a unique and thrilling touch to your visit in this charming city.

Hong Kong’s Ocean Terminal port has become a tourist hotspot featuring world-class hotels, restaurants and shopping, and the Kik Tak Cruise Terminal is a newer port located in Victoria Harbor. When it’s time to sightsee, both ports have nearby train transportation and plenty of taxis available.

Head to the top of the Peak Tower for a panoramic view of all of Hong Kong, then shop the Temple Street Night Market. Take a day trip to Macau or for travelers who have been to Hong Kong previously might want to take a tour to Lantau Island to visit to the Po Lin Monastery to see the huge Tian Tan Buddha.