Isles Of The Orient

Bali is an island paradise renowned for its stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and lush landscapes. Start your day with a visit to the sacred Uluwatu Temple, perched on a cliff overlooking the Indian Ocean, offering breathtaking sunset views and traditional Kecak dance performances. For nature enthusiasts, the Tegallalang Rice Terraces in Ubud provide a picturesque backdrop perfect for a leisurely walk or a photo opportunity.

Don't miss the bustling markets of Ubud, where you can find unique handicrafts and local delicacies. Bali is also home to world-class spa experiences, making it an ideal place to relax and rejuvenate. Whether you're exploring the art scene in Ubud or simply lounging on the beach, Bali offers a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation.

Benoa is located on the southern tip of Bali and is the key gateway for travellers exploring this Indonesian island. The port is approximately 12 kms (7.5 miles) from the bustling city of Denpasar - a journey of around 30 minutes. You'll dock directly at the terminal, allowing easy access to transport options.

Bali is an island paradise renowned for its stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and lush landscapes. Start your day with a visit to the sacred Uluwatu Temple, perched on a cliff overlooking the Indian Ocean, offering breathtaking sunset views and traditional Kecak dance performances. For nature enthusiasts, the Tegallalang Rice Terraces in Ubud provide a picturesque backdrop perfect for a leisurely walk or a photo opportunity.

Don't miss the bustling markets of Ubud, where you can find unique handicrafts and local delicacies. Bali is also home to world-class spa experiences, making it an ideal place to relax and rejuvenate. Whether you're exploring the art scene in Ubud or simply lounging on the beach, Bali offers a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation.

Benoa is located on the southern tip of Bali and is the key gateway for travellers exploring this Indonesian island. The port is approximately 12 kms (7.5 miles) from the bustling city of Denpasar - a journey of around 30 minutes. You'll dock directly at the terminal, allowing easy access to transport options.

Welcome to Jakarta, the thriving capital city of Indonesia. Ships will dock at Tanjung Priok Port, which is situated approximately 20km/12mi from the heart of Jakarta, about an hour by car.

Dive into Indonesia's past at the National Museum, displaying a vast collection of artifacts, including ancient Hindu-Buddhist art, ethnography, and archaeological exhibits. The National Monument (Monas) stands tall as a symbol of Indonesian independence, where visitors can ascend to the observation deck for panoramic views of the city and learn about the nation's struggle for freedom at the accompanying museum.

Discover the vibrant atmosphere of one of the world's largest textile markets, Tanah Abang Market. Explore aisles of fabrics, clothing, and accessories, offering a kaleidoscope of colours and patterns.

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.

The capital city of Palawan Island in the Philippines is a fascinating landscape of caves, forests, and coastline. Often acclaimed as the cleanest and greenest city in the Philippines, it offers a wealth of attractions such as turquoise water, white-sand beaches, underground rivers, and wildlife reserves. Ships will dock at the port.

Top Things to Do in Puerto Princesa:

• tour the Subterranean River
• explore the islands of Honda Bay
  
• visit the Immaculate Conception Cathedral
• relax on Nagtabon Beach

Coron is a stunning destination known for its world-class diving spots and breathtaking natural beauty. The area is celebrated for its clear, emerald waters and majestic limestone cliffs, which provide a dramatic backdrop to the idyllic scenery.

Coron is part of the larger Calamian Islands, offering pristine white sand beaches and rich marine biodiversity, making it a haven for snorkellers and divers alike.

Key attractions include the famous Kayangan Lake, known for its crystal-clear waters, and several Japanese shipwrecks submerged during World War II, which have created an underwater wonderland.

The town itself is quaint and charming, with a laid-back atmosphere.

Known as the Pearl of the Orient, Manila is the Philippine's sprawling capital city and a bustling hub of diverse cultures and heritage. Manila’s heady assortment of historical influences combine to give the city its unique identity. Ships will dock at the cruise terminal.

Top Things to Do in Manila:

• visit Fort Santiago
• admire Filipino art at the Metropolitan Museum of Manila
• take a scenic drive to Tagaytay
• take the ferry to Corregidor Island to see sites that played pivotal roles in WWII

Ilocos, in the northern Philippines, offers a rich blend of historical and natural attractions. Vigan, a UNESCO World Heritage site, showcases well-preserved Spanish colonial architecture. Cobblestone streets and ancestral houses provide a glimpse into the past, with highlights like Calle Crisologo.

The region also features stunning coastal landscapes, including the windmills of Bangui, the beaches of Pagudpud, and the rock formations of Kapurpurawan. Local markets present traditional Ilocano cuisine, with specialties like empanadas and bagnet. Ilocos combines historical charm with natural beauty, making it a unique destination for visitors.

Salomague, located in Ilocos Sur, Philippines, is a quaint coastal town known for its tranquil environment and scenic views. The Salomague Port is a notable spot, historically significant as an entry point for Spanish galleons and now a serene place for boating and local fishing.

Explore the beautiful beaches with clear waters, perfect for swimming and relaxing. The town's proximity to Vigan, a UNESCO World Heritage site, allows for easy day trips to experience colonial-era architecture and vibrant local markets. Salomague offers a peaceful retreat with a mix of historical charm and natural beauty.

In Hualien, Taiwan, cruise passengers can enjoy a variety of shore excursions. These include exploring the majestic Taroko Gorge is a must-see, offering stunning marble cliffs and the iconic Eternal Spring Shrine, ideal for nature lovers. Witnessing the scenic beauty of Qingshui Cliff, and delving into Taiwan's history at the National Palace Museum.

Additionally, there are opportunities to immerse in the local indigenous culture and experience the tranquil surroundings of Liyu Lake. Each excursion offers a unique glimpse into the natural and cultural richness of Hualien.

Taipei City stands as a vibrant metropolis set against the backdrop of towering mountains, offering a unique blend of urban energy and natural beauty. Its iconic Taipei 101, once the world's tallest building, provides panoramic views of the sprawling cityscape. The bustling night markets, such as Shilin and Raohe, offer an array of local delicacies, showcasing Taipei's rich culinary heritage.

Culture and history intertwine at the National Palace Museum, housing an extensive collection of Chinese imperial art that spans millennia. For a peaceful retreat, the nearby hot springs of Beitou invite visitors to relax in their therapeutic waters. Taipei is a city that constantly surprises, combining tradition with modernity in ways that captivate the hearts of travellers.

In Keelung, cruise ships dock at the Keelung Port, which serves as the gateway to Taipei, located approximately 25 kilometers (15.5 miles) away. Travel time to Taipei can vary, but it generally takes about 30 to 45 minutes by car, depending on traffic.

For exploring Taipei, travellers have several transportation options including taxis, buses, and trains. The city is renowned for its rich blend of modern and traditional cultures, with must-visit sights like the Taipei 101 skyscraper and the historical Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall. For a convenient and immersive experience, consider joining a guided tour or utilizing the efficient MRT (Metro) system to navigate the city's highlights.