Singapore to Siam

This morning after breakfast, you’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 marveling 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 out to The Fullerton Hotel for a delicious dinner of classic French bistro favourites. Afterwards, there is an opportunity to stop for a nightcap on the way home and take in the spectacular Spectra Light & Water show at 9pm for those that are interested. 

Overnight: Holiday Inn, Little India Singapore or similar (B, L, D)

This morning after breakfast and check out, we’ll board our private coach and 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 two-hour drive to Malacca, once Malaysia’s most vital trading port. 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.  The route we take 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.

We’ll go directly to our hotel to check in, after which you can embark on an orientation walk through the old town with your guide. The evening is then yours – enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, or dine at the hotel’s excellent restaurant for a more relaxed option.

Overnight: The Majestic Malacca or similar (B, L)

After breakfast and check out, we’ll hand our luggage over to be boarded on a private coach and head out to explore Malacca on a charming trishaw tour through its narrow streets, admiring 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—mosques, Buddhist temples, and Hindu shrines. Here, you’ll also see the tomb of Hang Kasturi, a revered 15th-century warrior.

We’ll stop for some lunch at a local Portuguese-Malay restaurant before being collected by our coach and transferring the one-hour to Tampin Railway Station, where we’ll board the ETS Gold train to Kuala Lumpur, arriving around 6 pm. 

Upon arrival, 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, declared a National Heritage Site in 1984 is known for its rich heritage, timeless elegance, and impeccable service. Originally built in 1932, The Majestic Hotel was one of Kuala Lumpur’s most prominent luxury hotels during the colonial era and 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 set off on an exploration of Kuala Lumpur, commonly known as KL, 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, KL 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. 

Your morning will begin with a visit to the historic Kuala Lumpur Railway Station, an architectural gem completed in 1917 by Arthur Benison Hubback. This 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, the National Mosque of Malaysia, and the Istana Negara National Palace, all symbols of the nation’s pride. 

Around lunch time, we’ll take a stroll through Dataran Merdeka (Independence Square) and set you free to enjoy your own time at Suria KLCC, the city’s iconic shopping precinct, and have lunch at leisure before returning to the hotel. 

Later in the afternoon, you’ll enjoy a guided food tour to savor Malaysia’s diverse culinary heritage, discovering a mix of Malay, Chinese, and Indian flavors as you visit renowned food stalls, market streets, and hidden gems. 

After dinner, a private vehicle will take you back to the hotel past the Petronas Towers to see them lit up, a dazzling highlight of KL’s skyline.

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

Enjoy a relaxed morning before checking out and making your way to Kuala Lumpur station. Here you will have time to buy some snacks for your departure. Board the ETS Express to Ipoh and settle in for a scenic journey through the rolling hills, verdant plantations, and traditional villages of Selangor and Perak. Watch as the landscape shifts from bustling towns to the lush Malaysian jungle.

Upon arrival, we’ll step into the colonial elegance of the Ipoh Railway Station, another masterpiece by Arthur Benison Hubback, completed in 1917 and often referred to as the “Taj Mahal of Ipoh.”  Unlike KL’s station, this one features European-inspired loggias and a grand covered porch. Ipoh itself is famed for its colonial architecture, vibrant street art, and local delicacies, making it a foodie haven and significant arts hub. We’ll spend some time exploring the old town before a scenic two-hour drive to the cool, high-altitude Cameron Highlands. 

A cool hill station, sitting 1,500 metres above sea level,  the region was named after British surveyor William Cameron, who discovered the area in 1885, and is famous for its scenic beauty, colonial charm, and agricultural attractions, including rolling hills covered in lush tea estates, strawberry farms and floral gardens. 

Upon checking into your hotel, the evening is yours to explore the hotel dining options.

Overnight: Hotel De’la Ferns, Cameron Highlands or similar (B, L)

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 over 45 years (1885 – 1931), this iconic 526 km railway is an unforgettable experience that takes you deep into the lush tropical rainforests of the Malay Peninsula, with sections passing through pristine jungle landscapes, charming villages, and remote areas that are rarely accessible by road, following winding rivers, traversing dramatic limestone hills, passing through tunnels and crossing viaducts.  

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

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

Today, after breakfast and checking out, we’ll board our private coach and journey through Malaysia’s rural hinterland to Penang, pausing for a tasty lunch at a roadside restaurant along the way.

Penang, often called the “Pearl of the Orient”, is a vibrant Malaysian state known for its rich cultural heritage, historic charm, and world-renowned food. Its capital, George Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, famous for its colonial architecture, vibrant street art, and historic shophouses. Founded in 1786 by British trader Francis Light, 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 and check in. Later, we’ll explore the charming streets of the city on an orientation walk, taking in colonial architecture, bustling hawker stalls, and lively alleys.

This evening, we’ll dive into Penang’s world-famous food scene with your tour leader and local guide, sampling iconic dishes like Laksa, Nasi Lemak, and the quintessential street food, Char Koay Teow, for an unforgettable dinner.

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

This morning after breakfast, we’ll delve deeper into Penang with a 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. Next, marvel at the ornate Khoo Kongsi, one of Malaysia’s most magnificent clan houses, built over a century ago by the Khoo clan.

Afterward, we will 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, the railway once served British colonials seeking cooler mountain air and was modernized in 2010 for a seamless journey.

The rest of the day is yours to explore at leisure. Wander the old town further, relax at your hotel, or enjoy dinner at one of Penang’s many acclaimed restaurants or the hotel’s elegant dining options.

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

This morning after breakfast and check out, we’ll head to Penang International Airport for a one-hour 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, Khao Sok is a paradise for nature enthusiasts. 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 hotel and gather for a relaxing dinner together, surrounded by the park’s serene beauty.

Overnight: Keeree Khao Sok, Khao Sok National Park  or similar (B, D)

This morning after breakfast, 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 stop to explore an island cave, where stalactites and bats await. After dipping our feet in the tranquil waters, we’ll enjoy a delicious lunch at a local raft-house nestled beneath the rainforest canopy. Following lunch, there’s some free time to relax and take in the stunning surroundings.

In the afternoon, we’ll embark on a guided mangrove wildlife tour,  where you’ll have the rare opportunity to spot the Rafflesia Kerri, one of the world’s largest flowers. Along the way, there’s a chance that we may encounter friendly wild Asian elephants, hornbills, langurs, gibbons and Malayan tapirs.

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

Overnight: Keeree Khao Sok, Khao Sok National Park  or similar (B, L)

This morning, after a leisurely breakfast and checking out, we’ll take a short drive to the Surat Thani train station, where we’ll board the Special Express train for a memorable journey through southern Thailand to Hua Hin, a popular coastal town known for its long sandy beaches, royal heritage, and laid-back charm. The 6-hour journey includes lunch on board the train at your seats. 

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, Hua Hin or similar (B, L, D)

After breakfast and checking out, we’ll transfer north along the Gulf of Thailand to Samut Songkhram. On arrival we will stop at the Maeklong Railway Market, one of the most iconic markets in Thailand.  Known as the “umbrella pulldown market,” Maeklong Market is 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 before sitting down for lunch together in a local restaurant.

The town is also close to the Amphawa Floating Market, a popular destination for local food and cultural experiences along the canals, and this will be our destination after lunch. 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 we’ve had our fill here, we’ll board our private coach and travel to the UNESCO World Heritage City of Ayutthaya, arriving in the early evening. After checking into our hotel, we’ll enjoy a leisurely dinner to reflect on the day’s adventures.

Overnight: Kantary Hotel, Ayutthaya or similar (B, L, D)

This morning after an early breakfast, we’ll board Thailand’s ‘Floating Train,’ one of Asia’s lesser known but most captivating railway journeys 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 and in the return journey stop again for some free time to explore the local markets and enjoy some lunch at leisure.  

It’s then back on our private coach to the hotel where the rest of the afternoon and evening is yours at leisure.  

Overnight: Kantary 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, once the thriving capital of the Siamese kingdom. By 1700, Ayutthaya had a population of around 800,000, making it one of the world’s largest and wealthiest cities at the time, often referred to as the “Venice of the East.” 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, which blend 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. Before we leave here, you’ll enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before we continue on to Kanchanaburi, home to the Thai-Burma Railway, or ‘Death Railway.’ 

Upon arrival in Kanchanaburi, we’ll check into our hotel.  In the evening we’ll enjoy dinner on the river. 

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

This morning after breakfast we’ll embark on exploring a significant chapter of Thailand’s history 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, many of whom were brought from countries like Malaya, Indonesia, and China. 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.

Your first stop will be 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, so visitors can sometimes see trains crossing it, which adds to the experience. From the bridge, we’ll travel by historic train 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 also  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 most challenging stretches of the railway, being forced to cut through solid rock using hand tools and primitive equipment. 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 and leader who became a symbol of courage and compassion during this dark time.  

Afterwards, we’ll stop for lunch at a local restaurant before returning to our hotel in Kanchanaburi. 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, you’ll visit the Thai-Burma Railway Centre, a museum and research hub founded and run by Australian Rod Beattie. Beattie, a recognized expert on the history of the Thai-Burma Railway, has dedicated over a decade to uncovering abandoned sections of the railway. 

Following this, we’ll visit the JEATH War Museum and the Kanchanaburi War Cemetery. The JEATH War Museum, constructed between 1942 and 1943 by Allied POWs under Japanese direction, was part of the Thai-Burma Railway. The acronym JEATH represents the nationalities involved in building the railway – Japanese, English, Australian, American, Thai, and Dutch – and showcases photographs, artifacts, and exhibits related to the construction of the Death Railway. The museum provides important historical context for understanding the suffering endured by the POWs and local workers.

Afterwards, we’ll enjoy a reflective and relaxing long-tail boat ride along the River Kwai to have lunch at one of the floating restaurants.

Returning to Kanchanaburi after lunch, 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.

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

Overnight: Salil Hotel Riverside Bangkok or similar (B, L)

After breakfast this morning, we’ll visit 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; the Grand Palace, which served as the official residence of the Thai kings from the late 18th century until the mid-20th century; and Wat Arun, also known as the Temple of Dawn, and one of the most iconic and revered landmarks in Thailand.

The rest of the day is yours to explore Bangkok at leisure. Tonight, we’ll come together for a grand farewell dinner (including drinks), where we can reflect on our amazing journey and share memories with our fellow travellers and tour leader.

Overnight: Salil Hotel Riverside Bangkok or similar (B, D)

Your tour with us comes to an end after breakfast this morning. Transfer to the airport for your flights home or onward for other journeys. 

(B)