Singapore to Siam

This morning after breakfast, we’ll set off to discover the multicultural vibrancy of Singapore, an island home to six million people. Our exploration begins in Kampong Glam, the heart of the Malay enclave, where the golden-domed Sultan Mosque and charming 19th-century shophouses set a picturesque scene. Stroll along Arab Street’s trendy shops and cafés before visiting the elegant Tanjong Pagar Station, a 1932 architectural gem that served as Singapore’s main train station until 2011.

Next, wander through Chinatown’s narrow streets, where temples, hawker stalls, and chic galleries coexist, and learn about the Chinese community’s rich history dating back to Sir Stamford Raffles. For lunch, we’ll savor local flavors at Singapore’s largest hawker centre, with over 220 food stalls to choose from.

In the afternoon, we’ll take a walk along Clarke Quay to see the historic Fullerton Hotel and Merlion Statue, and spend time marvelling at Supertree Grove and the Cloud Forest in Gardens by the Bay. 

We’ll return to the hotel in time to freshen up before venturing back to The Fullerton Hotel for a delicious dinner of classic French bistro favourites. Afterwards, if you’re interested, there’s an opportunity to stop for a nightcap on the way home and take in the spectacular Spectra Light & Water. 

Overnight: One Farrer Hotel, Singapore (B, L, D)

It’s an early start this morning. After a quick cuppa in your room, we’ll check out, pick up our breakfast boxes prepared by the hotel and board our private coach to travel to the Singapore-Malaysia border. Here, we’ll have the privilege of avoiding the queues and staying in our air-conditioned vehicle at the immigration checkpoint while our team processes the paperwork – then it’s over the border to Johor Bahru train station to board the Southern Shuttle train to Segamat. 

Upon arrival in Segamat, we’ll enjoy lunch before boarding our private coach for the scenic drive to Malacca, once Malaysia’s most vital trading port. Our route offers beautiful views of the Malaysian countryside, passing through oil palm plantations, small kampung (village) areas with traditional Malay houses, and rolling hills with stretches of greenery.

This historic city, shaped by Chinese, Indian, Dutch, Portuguese, and British influences, played a central role in controlling the crucial Straits of Malacca. Malacca’s rich colonial past is evident in its architecture and distinctive Peranakan cuisine. Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2008, the old town is a captivating blend of cultures, where colonial buildings stand alongside Chinese shophouses and temples. 

Upon arrival, we’ll go directly to our hotel to check in before embarking on a privately guided walking tour of the old town – the best way to orient yourself to a new place. After our tour, the evening is yours to enjoy dinner at a local restaurant or return to the hotel. 

Overnight: The Majestic Hotel, Malacca (B, L)

This morning after breakfast and check out, we’ll hand our luggage over to be loaded onto our private coach and head out to explore Malacca by day on a charming trishaw tour through its narrow streets. Admire 17th-century Dutch buildings and distinctive Peranakan architecture, learn about the ancient spice trade, and visit Jalan Tukang Emas – or Goldsmith Street – nicknamed Harmony Street for its diverse places of worship. Here, we’ll pause at the tomb of Hang Kasturi, a revered 15th-century warrior, the story of whom is a staple in Malay identity, symbolising the tragic heroism of those caught between friendship and fealty. 

We’ll stop for some lunch at a local Portuguese-Malay restaurant before being collected by our coach and transferring to Tampin Railway Station to board the ETS Gold train to Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia’s capital. 

Upon arrival around 6.00pm, we’ll transfer directly to our hotel and check in before gathering for dinner in the hotel’s elegant Contango restaurant. Our 5-star hotel, a National Heritage Site, is known for its rich heritage, timeless elegance, and impeccable service. Originally built in 1932 and now part of the Autograph group of hotels, The Majestic was one of Kuala Lumpur’s most prominent luxury hotels during the colonial era. Its original charm was preserved in a complete refurbishment in 2012.

Overnight: The Majestic Hotel Kuala Lumpur (B, L, D)

This morning after breakfast we’ll set off on an exploration of Kuala Lumpur, a fascinating city where tradition meets modernity. Famous for its iconic Petronas Twin Towers, bustling street markets, diverse cultural heritage, and its commitment to green spaces, Kuala Lumpur is considered one of the world’s most successful “future” cities, due to its rapid development, modern infrastructure, and ambitions to become a leading global hub. 

We’ll begin with a visit to the historic Kuala Lumpur Railway Station, an architectural gem completed in 1917, the station’s “Raj” style design blends Western, Moorish, and Mughal influences. Then it’s on to the Sultan Abdul Samad Building, a late-19th-century landmark that once housed British colonial offices; the Tugu Negara, Malaysia’s impressive National Monument; Masjid Negara, the National Mosque of Malaysia, built to honor the country’s peaceful transition to self-governance; and the Istana Negara National Palace, the official residence of the King of Malaysia. 

We’ll finish our morning with a stroll through Dataran Merdeka (Independence Square) and set you free to enjoy your own time and lunch at leisure at Suria KLCC, the city’s iconic shopping precinct situated at the base of the world-famous Petronas Twin Towers. You can either stay on here and explore the Towers on your own or return to the hotel. 

Later in the afternoon, you’re invited to experience something very special – a relaxed, locally-guided food tour to savor Malaysia’s diverse culinary heritage, discovering a mix of Malay, Chinese, and Indian flavors as we visit renowned food stalls, market streets, and hidden gems known only to locals. 

Overnight: The Majestic Hotel, Kuala Lumpur or similar (B, D)

This morning after an early breakfast and check out we’ll make our way to Kuala Lumpur station to board the ETS Express to Ipoh, the gateway to the highlands. Settle in for a scenic journey through the rolling hills, verdant plantations, and traditional villages of Selangor and Perak. 

Upon arrival in the late morning, we’ll step into the colonial elegance of the Ipoh Railway Station, often referred to as the “Taj Mahal of Ipoh.” Unlike Kuala Lumpur’s station, this one features European-inspired loggias and a grand covered porch. We’ll spend some time exploring the old town, famous for its colonial-era architecture, before continuing by coach on a scenic journey up into the cool, high-altitude Cameron Highlands. 

Upon checking into our hotel, the evening is yours to explore the hotel’s dining options.

Overnight: Cameron Highlands Resort, Cameron Highlands or similar (B, L)

This morning after breakfast and check out, we’ll explore the highlights of the Cameron Highlands including a visit to a tea plantation for a tea-tasting experience. Following lunch at a local restaurant, we’ll jump on our private coach and explore more grandeur of this area as we travel to Gua Musang station to board the famous Jungle Railway for a memorable journey north to Tanah Merah.

Officially known as the East Coast Railway Line, The Jungle Railway is an historic route spanning the length of Peninsular Malaysia’s rugged interior, and is widely considered to be one of the most beautiful train rides in Southeast Asia. Built by the British colonial administration, this iconic railway is an unforgettable travel experience following winding rivers, traversing dramatic limestone hills, passing through tunnels and crossing viaducts into the lush tropical rainforests of the Malay Peninsula, passing through pristine jungle landscapes, and charming remote villages. 

Upon arrival in Tanah Merah, we’ll go directly to our hotel, check in and enjoy dinner.

Overnight: Belum Rainforest Resort, Tanah Merah or similar (B, L, D)

This morning after breakfast and check out, we’ll set out on a boat excursion across Temenggor Lake, to enjoy a short guided walk to see the rare Rafflesia flower, one of the most extraordinary and bizarre flowers in the world, famous for being the largest single flower on Earth. It’s also famous for its corpse-like smell, so be prepared! We’ll also enjoy a plastic-free education program highlighting the importance of conservation in the region. Afterwards, we’ll collect our belongings from the hotel and embark on our journey to Penang, pausing along the way for a relaxed lunch at a local restaurant. 

Penang, a vibrant Malaysian state and often called the “Pearl of the Orient”, is renowned for its rich history, diverse culture, mouth-watering food, and stunning blend of old-world charm and modern energy. The capital, George Town, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, famous for its colonial architecture, vibrant street art, and historic shophouses. Founded in 1786 by the British East India Company, Penang became a key part of the Straits Settlements, alongside Malacca and Singapore. Over centuries, the island has evolved into a vibrant melting pot of Chinese, Malay, Indian, Eurasian, and Siamese cultures.

Upon arrival we’ll go directly to our hotel, check in and freshen up before exploring the charming streets of the city on a guided orientation walk, taking in colonial architecture, bustling hawker stalls, and lively alleys. We’ll end our walk at Penang’s only revolving restaurant and the largest rooftop bar in Malaysia and enjoy dinner while George Town’s UNESCO World Heritage skyline spins by. 

Overnight: The Eastern & Oriental Penang Hotel, Penang (B, L, D)

This morning after breakfast, we’ll delve into Penang with a privately guided walking tour, the best way to discover the town’s unique blend of Eastern and Western influences as we explore its 19th-century shophouses, vibrant street markets, and diverse cultural neighborhoods, including Little India, Chinatown, and the Muslim Quarter.

We’ll visit Chew Jetty, a historic waterfront settlement where Chinese clan communities built stilt houses over the water, and learn about their way of life; and continue on to marvel at the ornate Khoo Kongsi, one of Malaysia’s most magnificent clan houses, built over a century ago by the Khoo clan. From here, we’ll ascend Penang Hill via the world’s oldest funicular railway system and enjoy lunch at the top. Originally designed by the Swiss and built in 1923 and modernised in 2010, the railway once served British colonials seeking cooler mountain air. 

The rest of the day is yours to explore more at your own pace. Your local guide and tour leader will be only too happy to assist with recommendations of what to see and do.

Overnight: The Eastern & Oriental Penang Hotel, Penang (B, L)

This morning after breakfast and check out, we’ll head to Penang International Airport for a short flight to Phuket, Thailand’s largest island. Rather than lingering in the bustling, tourist-laden city, we’ll venture two hours north into the untouched wilderness of Khao Sok National Park.

This spectacular park, home to the world’s oldest evergreen rainforest, is a haven of natural wonders. With soaring limestone karst formations, dense ancient jungle, and the emerald waters of Cheow Lan Lake dotted with islands. Thought to predate even the Amazon, this 160-million-year-old rainforest is a testament to the Earth’s prehistoric past and incredible biodiversity.

Upon arrival, we’ll check in to our luxurious “glamping” resort and gather for a relaxing dinner together, surrounded by the park’s serene beauty. After dinner, you’re welcome to join a flashlight-led night safari designed to reveal the nocturnal side of the park – one of the world’s oldest rainforests. Be delighted as the jungle transforms into a symphony of sounds and hidden life. 

Overnight: Khaosok Boutique Hideaway, Khao Sok National Park (B, D)

This morning after breakfast and check out, we’ll embark on a scenic journey by private coach through pristine jungle juxtaposed with rubber and oil plantations to Cheow Lan Lake, where we’ll board a large long-tail boat for a peaceful ride across the water to one of the park’s remote islands. Surrounded by towering limestone karst hills rising almost 1,000 metres above the lake, the landscape here is strikingly beautiful—far surpassing even the famous Phang-Nga Bay formations near Phuket.

We’ll pause at one of the islands for a guided mangrove wildlife tour and another opportunity to spot the Rafflesia Kerri. Along the way, there’s a chance you may encounter friendly wild Asian elephants, hornbills, langurs, gibbons and Malayan tapirs, so keep your camera handy. We’ll also take the time to explore the incredible Pakarang Cave, also widely known as Coral Cave, a stunning limestone cave celebrated for its intricate stalactites and stalagmites that mimic the shapes of underwater coral formations, offering a glimpse into the region’s ancient geological past. After dipping our feet in the tranquil waters, we’ll enjoy a delicious lunch at a local raft-house nestled beneath the rainforest canopy. 

We’ll return to the hotel mid-afternoon and the rest of the day and evening is yours at leisure. 

Overnight: Khaosok Boutique Hideaway, Khao Sok National Park or similar (B, L)

This morning, after a leisurely breakfast and checking out, we’ll transfer to the Surat Thani train station and board the Special Express train for a memorable journey, including lunch on board, through southern Thailand to Hua Hin, a popular coastal town known for its long sandy beaches, royal heritage, and laid-back charm. 

Upon disembarking in Hua Hin, you’ll step into the town’s historic railway station, adding a nostalgic touch to the whole experience. It’s then a transfer directly to our hotel to check in. 

Dinner tonight will be at the hotel. 

Overnight: Centara Grand Beach Resort & Villas, Hua Hin (B, L, D)

After an early breakfast and checking out, we’ll board our private coach for the journey north along the Gulf of Thailand to our final destination today – the UNESCO World Heritage City of Ayutthaya. We’ll break our journey at Samut Songkhram, home to the fascinating Maeklong Railway Market, one of the most iconic markets in Thailand. Known as the “umbrella pulldown market,” it’s located on the railway tracks themselves – when a train approaches, vendors quickly retract their awnings and move their goods from the tracks, only to set everything back once the train has passed. Originally opened in 1905 to transport produce from the fishing ports of Samut Sakhon and Samut Songkhram to the Bangkok markets, this vibrant marketplace is a must-see. We’ll have time to wander through the market, observe the trains passing through, and savor the unique atmosphere. 

We’ll then poke our heads into the nearby Amphawa Floating Market, a popular destination for local food and cultural experiences along the canals, and enjoy some lunch together. This lively Thai market, held only on weekends, comes alive in the afternoons. Set along the canals, where boats laden with fresh produce, snacks, seafood, and other goods sell directly to customers while navigating their boats through the bustling waterways. 

After lunch we’ll pause briefly at the serene King Rama II Memorial Park – both a memorial and an open-air museum offering a glimpse into 18th- and 19th-century Thai life, with beautifully landscaped gardens, traditional architecture, and educational exhibits.

We’ll arrive in Ayutthaya in the early evening and go directly to our hotel and check in before regrouping for a leisurely dinner in the hotel. 

Overnight: Classic Kameo Hotel, Ayutthaya (B, L, D)

This morning after an early breakfast, we’ll transfer to the railway station to board Thailand’s ‘Floating Train,’ one of Asia’s lesser known but most captivating railway journeys. Operating between Ayutthaya and Khok Salung station, much of the journey involves passing near the Chao Phraya River or smaller canals, which adds to the “floating” feel, especially at high tide, as the tracks are often close to the water’s edge or even built above canals.

This scenic route takes us across a series of viaducts above the Pasak Chonlasit Reservoir, offering a truly unique experience. We’ll make a stop at a viewpoint in the middle of the reservoir, providing a brilliant photo opportunity of both the train and the stunning natural surroundings. On the return journey, we’ll stop again for free time to explore the local markets and enjoy some lunch at leisure. 

After returning to the hotel, the afternoon and evening is yours at leisure. 

Overnight: Classic Kameo Hotel, Ayutthaya or similar (B)

This morning after breakfast and checking out, we’ll visit the UNESCO World Heritage site of the ancient city of Ayutthaya, founded in 1351 and once the thriving capital of the Siamese kingdom. Often referred to as the “Venice of the East”, Ayutthaya had a population estimated at 1 million by 1700 – larger than contemporary London, making it one of the world’s largest and wealthiest cities at the time. Proof of the ancient city’s global reach is everywhere – King Narai built a European-style palace in the 17th century where he hosted French ambassadors, and more incredibly, a Greek adventurer, Constantine Phaulkon, became his prime minister. Sadly, in 1767, the city was destroyed by the Burmese army, leading to the collapse of the kingdom. 

As we explore, you’ll marvel at the former palaces and temples, blending Thai, Chinese, and European architectural styles. You’ll witness gilded structures, intricate ruins, and learn about this era of prosperity, when international merchants were in awe of the treasures Ayutthaya once held. We’ll enjoy lunch at a local restaurant here before continuing on to Kanchanaburi, home to the Thai-Burma Railway, known simply and sadly as the ‘Death Railway.’ 

Upon arrival in Kanchanaburi, we’ll check into our hotel, freshen up and enjoy dinner on the river. 

Overnight: U Inchantree, Kanchanaburi (B,L,D)

This morning after breakfast we’ll explore a significant chapter of Thailand’s history – one that deeply affected Australians. 

The Thai Burma Railway, known as the Death Railway was constructed by the Japanese during World War II, between 1942 and 1943, part of a strategic effort to facilitate the transport of troops and supplies from Thailand to support the Japanese invasion of Burma. To build this railway, the Japanese employed forced labor, consisting of prisoners of war (POWs) from the Allied forces (particularly from Britain, Australia, the Netherlands, and the United States), as well as Asian laborers. The workers faced horrific conditions, including extreme heat, inadequate food and water, disease, and brutal treatment by their Japanese captors. Thousands of people died during its construction, making the railway synonymous with suffering and death. The total number of casualties is estimated to be around 100,000, including both POWs and local laborers.

We’ll travel directly to the iconic Bridge Over The River Kwai, immortalised in Pierre Boulle’s 1952 novel and David Lean’s 1957 film. The original bridge, though damaged during Allied bombings in World War II, was rebuilt after the war and still stands as a working railway bridge, and it’s here that we’ll board a historic train and travel alongside the Kwai Noi River, enjoying beautiful panoramic views as the train winds along the mountainside, passing through Tham Krasae station and travelling across the Wang Pho Viaduct and Nam Tok Train Station, both built by the Allied POWs.

We’ll visit the Hellfire Pass Memorial, established by the Australian government in 1998 and dedicated to the thousands of POWs and Asian workers who lost their lives while constructing the railway. The name “Hellfire Pass” comes from the sight of torches and lanterns that were used by the workers at night, which reportedly cast an eerie, fire-like glow along the cliffs. The gruesome conditions were likened to hell by the survivors and witnesses, making the name fitting. While here, we’ll also visit the plaque in memory of Sir Weary Dunlop, an Australian surgeon who became a symbol of courage and compassion during this dark time. 

After a morning of sombre reflection, we’ll stop for lunch at a local restaurant before returning to our hotel. The rest of the afternoon and evening is free – perhaps you’d like to explore the nearby night markets or simply enjoy dinner in the hotel. 

Overnight: U Inchantree, Kanchanaburi (B, L)

This morning after breakfast and checking out, we’ll visit two significant and poignant testaments honouring those who were lost during this dark part of history – the Thai-Burma Railway Centre and the JEATH War Museum and the Kanchanaburi War Cemetery. 

The Thai-Burma Railway Centre is a museum and research hub founded and run by Australian Rod Beattie, an Australian historian, former army engineer, and leading authority on the Thai-Burma Railway. Originally from Queensland, Australia, Beattie has dedicated over two decades to researching, mapping, and preserving the railway’s history, and helping descendants of prisoners of war (POWs) find closure about their relatives’ fates.

The JEATH War Museum, founded in 1977, was one of the first museums to focus on the Death Railway atrocities. The museum’s name is an acronym for the nationalities primarily involved: Japan (the occupying force), England, Australia, America (Allied POWs), Thailand (the host country under Japanese control), and Holland. It serves as a somber reminder of the tragic human cost of the railway’s construction. 

We’ll return to Kanchanaburi by way of a gentle, reflective long-tail boat ride along the River Kwai, stopping for lunch at one of the floating restaurants along the way.

Back in Kanchanaburi, we’ll board the mid-afternoon train to Bangkok. Regarded as one of Thailand’s most scenic slow train rides, some of the route follows the original Death Railway, passing through tranquil rural landscapes, with green fields, small towns, and distant hills. The train makes frequent stops at charming small stations, each with bright, well-maintained wooden buildings. Our private coach will be following the train, so you can transfer to it at any stop.

We’ll arrive at Thonburi Railway Station in Bangkok at 6:00 pm and transfer directly to our hotel to check-in. Dinner tonight is at leisure. 

Overnight: Ramada Plaza by Wyndham Bangkok Menam Riverside (B, L)

After breakfast this morning, we’ll combine our coach with a local ferry and three of the city’s most iconic landmarks. Our first stop is the famous UNESCO listed Wat Pho temple, also known as the Temple of the Reclining Buddha, one of the oldest and most famous temples in Bangkok, and home to one of the largest and most impressive Buddha images in the country. It’s then on to the Grand Palace, which served as the official residence of the Thai kings from the late 18th century until the mid-20th century. Across the river is Wat Arun, also known as the Temple of Dawn, after Aruna, the Hindu god of dawn, reflecting the temple’s stunning sunrise views when light hits its spires. Dating back to the Ayutthaya period (pre-1767), its entire surface is encrusted with colorful broken Chinese porcelain forming floral motifs, mythical creatures, and deities.

The rest of the afternoon is yours to explore Bangkok at leisure. 

Tonight, we’ll come together for a grand farewell dinner (including drinks), to reflect on our amazing journey and share memories with our fellow travellers and tour leader.

Overnight: Ramada Plaza by Wyndham Bangkok Menam Riverside (B, D)

Our tour ends after breakfast this morning. Transfer to the airport for your flights home or onward for other journeys. 

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